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Year: 2018

Baystate Academy Charter Public School Receives STEM Grant

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Academy Charter Public School received a grant to offer high-quality science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs from Project Lead The Way (PLTW), a nonprofit organization that provides a transformative learning experience for K-12 students and teachers through pathways in computer science, engineering, and biomedical science. More than 10,500 schools across the country offer PLTW programs to millions of students.

According to Tim Sneed, executive director of Baystate Academy, “these funds will allow us to expand our biomedical sciences programs as we prepare students to enter the field of healthcare.”

Baystate Academy is just one of 73 schools across the Commonwealth to receive the grant, which is supported by the Baker-Polito administration, the One8 Foundation, and Mass STEM Hub.

“It is essential that we engage our students throughout their K-12 school years with hands-on lessons in science, engineering, computer science, technology, and math,” said Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito.

Baystate Academy will use grant funds to strengthen its PLTW program with biomedical science. Funds from the grant will also support teacher professional development and the purchase of materials and equipment that will be used in the hands-on, activity-, project-, and problem-based courses.

“We are proud to partner with Baystate Academy to empower students to develop the in-demand knowledge and transportable skills to thrive in our evolving world,” said Vince Bertram, PLTW president and CEO.

Workshop to Tackle ‘Pricing and Positioning Your Business for Sale’

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Attention all business owners: if you plan to retire, or think you might someday want to change gears in your life, you will eventually be faced with the task of selling or transferring ownership of your business.

With this in mind, Philip Steckler and Eric Lineback of Country Business Inc. (CBI) will present a workshop titled “Maximize the Value of Your Business: Properly Pricing and Positioning Your Business For Sale” on Friday, March 16 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at Holyoke Public Library.

CBI, a business-brokerage and merger-and-acquisition firm, has managed the sales of more than 1,200 businesses since 1976, with sale prices ranging from a few hundred thousand dollars to $30 million, including local businesses Quabbin Industries, New England Wetland Plants, Danco Modern, Bart’s Ice Cream, and Graphic Printing.

Steckler and Lineback will introduce business owners to topics such as maximizing the value of a business, properly pricing and positioning a business for sale, attracting qualified buyers, minimizing taxes, and maintaining confidentiality. Additional topics covered will include analyzing a business’ strengths and weaknesses, understanding the marketplace, valuing a business and properly setting the purchase price and terms, and more.

This will be an interactive workshop, and questions and discussion will be welcome. To register, contact Ira Bryck at the Family Business Center of Pioneer Valley at [email protected] or (413) 835-0810.

Brittany Weiss Joins International Language Institute Board

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Brittany Weiss, associate director of International Admissions at Stoneleigh-Burnham School in Greenfield, has joined the all-volunteer board of directors for the International Language Institute of Massachusetts (ILI).

“We are very pleased to have Brittany as part of the ILI family,” said Eric Wirth, ILI board president. “Her extensive academic and professional background around the world and here at home will go far in supporting our work, including high-quality language instruction and teacher training, free English classes for immigrants and refugees, and volunteer opportunities throughout the Pioneer Valley.”

Weiss has considerable experience abroad in Asia, Latin America, the United Kingdom, and Europe. Prior to joining Stoneleigh-Burnham, she was Admissions associate at the American International School of Budapest in Hungary, where she worked with students and families from more than 60 nationalities. Earlier, she served as assistant director of Alumni Engagement at her alma mater, Williston Northampton School in Easthampton, and as a resident faculty member at Emma Willard School in Troy, N.Y. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Siena College and a master’s degree in educational administration and policy studies from the University at Albany.

Melha Shriners Elect Glenn Surprenant as 108th Potentate

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Melha Shriners, a philanthropic organization based on fun, fellowship, and Masonic principles, announced the official election and installation of their potentate (president) and his Divan (executive board). At its annual meeting, the Melha Shriners presented the potentate’s fez to Glenn Surprenant, the 108th top-ranking Shriner in Western Mass. as the organization enters its 120th year.

A lifelong resident of Western Mass., Surprenant graduated from Classical High School and later pursued his passion for laboratory sciences. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree from American International College in 1976, he became a registered medical technologist in Laboratory Sciences and is currently the director of Radiology at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield. 

In 1976, Surprenant married Diane Ruggeri, an assistant nurse manager, Labor & Delivery for Baystate Medical Center. After many years of observing other members of his family join the Masonic fraternity and then the Shrine, Surprenant was raised a Master Mason in the Indian Orchard Lodge in February 2006 and joined the Melha Shriners in March 2006. He has been an active member and past president of the Hadji Unit in 2014. During parades, he can be seen driving one of the brightly colored Jeepsters.

Surprenant’s journey toward becoming the head Shriner in Western Mass. began in 2014 when he was appointed to the Divan line. The fellowship he espouses is seen throughout the Shrine and Shriners Hospitals for Children – Springfield, as his cousin, Al “Poppy” Surprenant, is a member of the clown unit; his brothers, Joseph and Gary Surprenant, are both board of governors members at the hospital; and his son, Andrew, is president of the Melha Oriental Band Unit.

The First Lady’s project, titled “Nursing Education: Making a Difference for the Kids,” will raise funds to provide items not normally allocated in a hospital budget; these educational items will assist the nurses in the transition to acute pediatric rehabilitation care. Said First Lady Diane, “I’d like to add more educational items that will help the staff to do even greater things than they are doing now. My hope is that my project will provide additional tools and the necessary training to expand the high-quality care the children receive here in Springfield.”

Single-family Home Sales in Pioneer Valley Up in January

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Single-family home sales rose by 17.2% in the Pioneer Valley in January compared to the same time last year, while the median price rose 1.0% to $197,000, according to the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley.

In Franklin County, sales were up 27.0%, while the median price fell 2.1% from a year earlier. In Hampden County, sales were up 26.2%, while the median price was up 8.8%. In Hampshire County, sales fell by 5.6% from January 2017, while the median price was up 1.2%.

Bay Path University and Partners to Present On the Move Forum

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — In honor of Women’s History Month in March and International Women’s Day on March 8, Bay Path University will present the On the Move Forum in partnership with the Professional Women’s Chamber, the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, the Pan African Historical Museum USA (PAHMUSA), and Enchanted Circle Theater.

The event will be held at CityStage in Springfield on Thursday, March 8, from 5 to 7 p.m. This program is funded in part by Mass Humanities, which receives support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council and is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

The On the Move Forum will explore the inclusive timeline of women’s history and the women’s rights movement through an interactive presentation, sparking community conversations about gaps and gains in that history. The forum’s theme, “Know the Past, Chart the Future,” will use literature and philosophy to engage the audience in exploring the status of women regarding race, ethnicity, culture, age, sexual orientation, and the progress made since the first federally funded women’s conference in 1977.

During the program, an educational presentation will feature portrayals of essential historic figures from the timeline of the women’s movement, providing an opportunity for historic ‘conversations’ with Sojourner Truth, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Gloria Steinem, to name a few. Bay Path’s Leanna James Blackwell, director, MFA in Creative Nonfiction, and assistant professor of Creative Writing, will portray Steinem, and Priscilla Kane Hellweg, executive artistic director, Enchanted Circle Theater will present as Eleanor Roosevelt. Remarks will be given by young women leaders from Bay Path University as well.

“This is a great opportunity to walk through women’s history while supporting women in business and inspiring professional women at every level and college students to pursue their dreams — thus creating the world they want to live in,” said Janine Fondon, assistant professor and co-coordinator of the On the Move Forum with Melina Rudman at Bay Path University.

“Our young women need to know of the history of the great women who paved the way for them — their stories will no longer go silent,” said LuJuana Hood, director of PAHMUSA, which is currently displaying an exhibit of figures in the women’s movement timeline.

The On the Move Forum also includes a Table Top Business Expo by the Professional Women’s Chamber, as well as an interactive program to highlight women’s history, leadership, and trends.

Many local businesses, including PeoplesBank, Roberto’s restaurant, Sylvester’s restaurant, Pip Printing, and Cambridge College, have joined On the Move as sponsors. Opportunities are still available. For more information, contact Fondon at (413) 221-7931 or [email protected]. For tickets, call the CityStage box office at (413) 788-7033.

WGBY Wine & Food Lovers Weekend Returns March 9-10

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The WGBY Wine & Food Lovers Weekend returns Friday and Saturday, March 9 and 10, with an Irish theme, featuring PBS chef Kevin Dundon, host of the popular cooking show Modern Irish Food.

In its 33rd year, WGBY’s wine-centric fund-raiser is a tasty tradition that has successfully raised funds for educational programming in the region by selling tickets to two nights of sampling. The weekend kicks off Friday, March 9 with the region’s largest benefit tasting event, featuring more than 300 wines, craft beers, and specialty food vendors, taking up three large function halls inside Springfield’s Tower Square Hotel.

The tasting is followed on Saturday, March 10 by a fine dining experience, the WGBY Wine Lovers Dinner at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Dundon has created a seven-course menu of Irish cuisine and will be on hand to explain each featured dish. The meal will be executed by Log Cabin Executive Chef Mick Corduff, and each course will feature two wines, matched by Table & Vine Wine Sales Manager Michael Quinlan and his team. For a sneak peek at the WGBY Wine Lovers Dinner menu, visit wgby.org/wine/menu.

Dundon’s series, Modern Irish Food, puts a modern spin on the celebrated dishes of Irish culture. The award-winning chef and restaurateur shares both the traditional elements of Irish country house cooking and the gourmet modernization of recipes.

Tickets to the March 9 tasting event in downtown Springfield are $49 each; tickets to the seven-course gourmet dinner on March 10 in Holyoke are $175 each. Both are available online at wgby.org/wine or at Table & Vine in West Springfield.

Proceeds benefit public television and PBS station WGBY. The event is sponsored by Big Y World Class Markets, Table & Vine, the Dennis Group, and AM Lithography. Media sponsors include BusinessWest, the Healthcare News, and the Republican.

Community Bank, N.A.
 Ranked Sixth in Financial Performance

By
Daily News

DEWITT, N.Y. — Forbes magazine recently ranked Community Bank, N.A. sixth in the nation for financial performance in a study analyzing 10 key metrics related to growth, asset quality, capital adequacy, and profitability for the nation’s 100 largest banks and thrifts. This is the seventh year running that Community Bank, N.A. has ranked among the top 15 banks on the list.

Forbes began ranking America’s 100 largest publicly traded banks and thrifts after the financial crisis of the late 2000s. Mid-size, regional, and national banks from across the U.S. were included in the study. Community Bank, N.A. scored above all regional banks serving within the bank’s footprint, including M&T Bank, NBT Bank, PNC, People’s United Financial, Key Bank, and Bank of America.

The raw data for Forbes’ 2018 America’s Best Banks was collected by S&P Global Market Intelligence, and rankings were completed exclusively by Forbes. The 10 metrics used in the rankings are based on regulatory filings through Sept. 30.

New Energy-efficiency Program Offers Opportunities and Rebates

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Daily News

BOSTON — A new pilot program funded by the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) is making incentives for energy-efficiency upgrades in residential buildings with one to four units available to Massachusetts residents, including those serviced by municipal lighting companies.

DOER, established to develop and implement policies and programs to further the energy-related goals of the Commonwealth, has created the Home Energy Market Value Performance (MVP) pilot program to test innovations to residential energy-efficiency program delivery. This program is designed to be custom-built around a home’s individual needs instead of a prescriptive, one-size-fits-all process, relying on the participating contractors’ expertise in building science and advanced modeling software used during the energy audit.

The incentives and rebates available for energy-efficiency upgrades are based on the reduction of annual energy consumption of the home. The initial audit will model the current annual energy usage, and the energy specialists will create a plan to reduce that usage. Together with the energy specialists, homeowners can make decisions about what measures to install or upgrade based on their homes’ particular needs and the projected incentive paid by the program. A site visit will be conducted after the upgrades have been completed to confirm their installation and approve the customer’s rebate package.

The MVP pilot will run until November 2019 or until all funding is spent, which is estimated to cover 600 projects statewide. Massachusetts residences up to a four-unit building that meet health and safety standards are eligible for participation, including condominiums and rentals with written agreement from the landlord. Currently, homes that heat with Berkshire Gas or that are on a reduced rate code or heating assistance are not eligible for the program.

The pilot consists of just eight participating contractors across the state. Locally, the Energy Store, an Easthampton-based Building Performance Institute Goldstar Contractor, was chosen as a participating contractor.

“We’re very excited to be able to offer potentially big incentives through the MVP pilot to folks with municipal utilities or anyone with their hearts set on measures they wouldn’t otherwise have been incentivized, such as basement ceiling insulation or spray foam,” said Chris Allen, director of Field Operations for the Energy Store. “It will hopefully make a really positive impact on the program in the future, and it offers financial help for homeowners to address efficiency problems in ways that traditionally haven’t been incentivized. It opens a lot of doors.”

Inquiries about the DOER MVP pilot can be directed to the Energy Store at [email protected].

Community Music School Receives Grant from MDRT Foundation

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT) Foundation awarded a $5,000 grant to Community Music School of Springfield (CMSS) through its Quality of Life Grant Program in honor of Jeanmarie Deliso, CFP.

Through its global grants programs, the MDRT Foundation is committed to building stronger families and communities around the globe. This year, the MDRT Foundation will award more than $1 million in MDRT member-endorsed grants to more than 200 charitable organizations worldwide. Representing the MDRT Foundation, Deliso will present this grant to Community Music School of Springfield on March 23 at its board meeting.

“Special-education students are highly impacted by music, yet historically they have not always had the same access to music education as their typically-developing peers. Nationwide, there is a lack of specific training for music educators to work with special-needs populations,” said Eileen McCaffery, executive director of Community Music School of Springfield.

Trained in both music and special education, CMSS faculty work with Springfield classrooms to teach general music concepts in a way that is accessible to special-education students. The AMP Institute expands the reach of this work by training educators to use these methods in their classrooms.

United Personnel Wins Inavero’s 2018 Best of Staffing Awards

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — United Personnel announced it has won Inavero’s Best of Staffing Client and Talent Awards for providing superior service to clients and job seekers. Presented in partnership with CareerBuilder, Inavero’s Best of Staffing winners have proven to be industry leaders in service quality based entirely on ratings by their clients and the employees they have helped find jobs. On average, clients of winning agencies are 2.3 times more likely to be completely satisfied. Job seekers who work with winning agencies are 1.7 times more satisfied with the services provided compared to those working with non-winning agencies.

Focused on helping to connect people with the right job opportunities, United Personnel received satisfaction scores of 9 or 10 out of 10 from a significant amount of both clients and candidates placed in jobs, resulting in the recognition. These two awards are distinctions that fewer than 2% of all staffing agencies in the U.S. and Canada have earned.

“Our team works hard on behalf of our clients and candidates, and we are very proud and honored to be recognized for our efforts in this way,” United Personnel President Tricia Canavan said. “We are committed to supporting the continued professional development of people in this region and contribute to the overall growth of our regional economy.”

Big Y’s Growth Necessitates Distribution Center Expansion

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — It was in 1995 that Big Y expanded its three smaller distribution facilities into the former Rexnord Roller Chain Manufacturing Co. on Roosevelt Avenue in Springfield. At the time, a staff of 27 people distributed produce and other products to 31 supermarkets throughout the region. Three years later, Big Y’s corporate headquarters and store support center moved to the same site.

Fast-forward to 2018, when Big Y’s distribution now supports 70 supermarkets out of the same space, and it is easy to see the need for an expanded facility. The current 189,000-square-foot distribution center has 19 receiving bays and operates round the clock seven days a week with a staff of 92 moving product through this system. In 1995, 3.5 million cases of product were shipped each year from this facility. Even eight years ago, Big Y’s distribution-center team shipped out nearly 15 million cases to stores. By the end of last year, that number had increased to more than 20 million cases.

A rendering of Big Y’s future expanded distribution center.

Therefore, Big Y plans an expansion in order to provide capacity for the next 20 years, with includes plans for 20 new supermarkets. The company anticipates a total of 53 dock doors are needed to manage this growth, along with an additional 232,000 square feet of space for a total of close to 425,000 square feet — the size of nearly nine football fields. This expansion will improve the efficiency of the flow of goods to all of stores and will require an additional 32 full-time employees at this site. It will include 152,000 square feet of additional dry product storage and 82,000 square feet of specialized refrigerated storage for various products.

Big Y’s distribution center also houses a large recycling area for cardboard and plastic wrap and serves as a staging ground for meat donations as they are sent to area food banks.

Currently, local farmers have the option of delivering their fruits and vegetables to this distribution facility in order to save them the time and expense of driving to Big Y’s individual stores while ensuring freshness and speedy deliveries. This expansion will make it more efficient for them to get their fresh produce to the distribution center so that they can quickly get back to their farms.

Big Y has worked with Kevin Kennedy, Springfield’s chief Development officer, along with Mayor Domenic Sarno to develop a plan for this $35 million to $40 million project. In addition, Big Y is working with Springfield based Dennis Group, a local full service planning, architecture, engineering and construction management firm on this project. It is expected to be completed over the next 18 months.

Other elements of this expansion include some renovation within Big Y’s headquarters including a new employee café and a test kitchen to develop and test new recipes, concepts, meals, dietary and nutritional options, and products before rolling them out to consumers. In addition, the test kitchen can host food tastings and focus groups as well as serve as additional training for store teams each week. Plans also include a new employee entrance and visitors welcome and reception area.

Big Y Foods Inc. is one of the largest independently owned supermarket chains in New England, operating 78 locations throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut — including 70 supermarkets, 39 pharmacies, Fresh Acres Market, Table & Vine Fine Wines and Liquors, and six Big Y Express gas and convenience locations — and employing more than 11,000 people.

Previous Difference Makers

By
Difference Makers

Honorees since the first class of 2009

2018:

• Bob Bolduc, CEO of Pride Stores
• Bob “The Bike Man” Charland, Founder of Pedal Thru Youth
• Girls Inc. of Holyoke
• Evan Plotkin, President of NAI Plotkin
• Crystal Senter-Brown, Author & Adjunct Faculty at Bay Path University
• WillPower Foundation

2017:

• The Community Colleges of Western Massachusetts; Berkshire Community College, Greenfield Community College, Holyoke Community College, Springfield Technical Community College
•    Friends of the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round
•    Denis Gagnon Sr., President & CEO of Excel Dryer Inc.
•    Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts
•    Joan Kagan, President & CEO of Square One.

2016:

•    Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.
•    Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, Philanthropist (1965-2015)
•    Big Brothers Big Sisters of Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties
•    Bay Path University President Carol Leary
•    John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service

2015:

•    Katelynn’s Ride
•    Judy Matt, president of Spirit of Springfield
•    MassMutual Financial Group
•    The ownership group of the Student Prince and the Fort
•    Valley Venture Mentors

2014:

•    The Gray House
•    Colleen Loveless, executive director of the Springfield chapter of Rebuilding Together
•    The Melha Shriners
•    Paula Moore, founder of YSET Academy and a teacher at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Training Academy
•    Michael Moriarty, attorney, director of Olde Holyoke Development Corp., and supporter of childhood literacy programs

2013:

•    Michael Cutone, John Barbieri, and Thomas Sarrouf, organizers of Springfield’s C3 Policing program
•    John Downing, president of Soldier On
•    Bruce Landon, president and general manager of the Springfield Falcons
•    The Sisters of Providence
•    Jim Vinick, managing director of Investments for Moors & Cabot Inc.

2012:

•   Charlie and Donald D’Amour, president/COO and chairman/CEO of Big Y Foods
•   William Messner, president of Holyoke Community College
•   Majors Tom and Linda-Jo Perks, officers of the Springfield Corps of the Salvation Army
•   Bob Schwarz, executive vice president of Peter Pan Bus Lines
•   The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts

2011:

•    Tim Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
•    Lucia Giuggio Carvalho, founder of Rays of Hope
•    Don Kozera, president of Human Resources Unlimited
•    Robert Perry, retired partner/consultant at Meyers Brothers Kalicka
•    Anthony Scott, Holyoke police chief

2010:

•    The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation
•    Ellen Freyman, attorney and shareholder at Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C.
•    James Goodwin, president and CEO of the Center for Human Development
•    Carol Katz, CEO of the Loomis Communities
•    UMass Amherst and its chancellor, Robert Holub

2009:

•    Doug Bowen, president and CEO of PeoplesBank
•    Kate Kane, managing director of the Springfield office of Northwestern Mutual Financial/the Zuzolo Group
•    Susan Jaye-Kaplan, founder of GoFIT and co-founder of Link to Libraries
•    William Ward, executive director of the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County
•   The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield

Previous Difference Makers

By
Difference Makers

Honorees since the first class of 2009

2018:

• Bob Bolduc, CEO of Pride Stores
• Bob “The Bike Man” Charland, Founder of Pedal Thru Youth
• Girls Inc. of Holyoke
• Evan Plotkin, President of NAI Plotkin
• Crystal Senter-Brown, Author & Adjunct Faculty at Bay Path University
• WillPower Foundation

2017:

• The Community Colleges of Western Massachusetts; Berkshire Community College, Greenfield Community College, Holyoke Community College, Springfield Technical Community College
•    Friends of the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round
•    Denis Gagnon Sr., President & CEO of Excel Dryer Inc.
•    Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts
•    Joan Kagan, President & CEO of Square One.

2016:

•    Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.
•    Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, Philanthropist (1965-2015)
•    Big Brothers Big Sisters of Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire Counties
•    Bay Path University President Carol Leary
•    John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service

2015:

•    Katelynn’s Ride
•    Judy Matt, president of Spirit of Springfield
•    MassMutual Financial Group
•    The ownership group of the Student Prince and the Fort
•    Valley Venture Mentors

2014:

•    The Gray House
•    Colleen Loveless, executive director of the Springfield chapter of Rebuilding Together
•    The Melha Shriners
•    Paula Moore, founder of YSET Academy and a teacher at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Training Academy
•    Michael Moriarty, attorney, director of Olde Holyoke Development Corp., and supporter of childhood literacy programs

2013:

•    Michael Cutone, John Barbieri, and Thomas Sarrouf, organizers of Springfield’s C3 Policing program
•    John Downing, president of Soldier On
•    Bruce Landon, president and general manager of the Springfield Falcons
•    The Sisters of Providence
•    Jim Vinick, managing director of Investments for Moors & Cabot Inc.

2012:

•   Charlie and Donald D’Amour, president/COO and chairman/CEO of Big Y Foods
•   William Messner, president of Holyoke Community College
•   Majors Tom and Linda-Jo Perks, officers of the Springfield Corps of the Salvation Army
•   Bob Schwarz, executive vice president of Peter Pan Bus Lines
•   The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts

2011:

•    Tim Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission
•    Lucia Giuggio Carvalho, founder of Rays of Hope
•    Don Kozera, president of Human Resources Unlimited
•    Robert Perry, retired partner/consultant at Meyers Brothers Kalicka
•    Anthony Scott, Holyoke police chief

2010:

•    The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation
•    Ellen Freyman, attorney and shareholder at Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C.
•    James Goodwin, president and CEO of the Center for Human Development
•    Carol Katz, CEO of the Loomis Communities
•    UMass Amherst and its chancellor, Robert Holub

2009:

•    Doug Bowen, president and CEO of PeoplesBank
•    Kate Kane, managing director of the Springfield office of Northwestern Mutual Financial/the Zuzolo Group
•    Susan Jaye-Kaplan, founder of GoFIT and co-founder of Link to Libraries
•    William Ward, executive director of the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County
•   The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield

Gray House Inducts Two New Board Members, Officers

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD —
 The Gray House recently inducted two new board members to a three-year term. They were welcomed at the January board meeting by the president and officers of the board. The new board members are Margaret (Meg) Beturne and Ruben Arroyo. Remaining board officers are Kathleen Lingenberg, president; Susan Mastroianni, vice president; Janet Rodriguez Denney, clerk; and Candace Pereira, treasurer.

Beturne is a professional nurse with extensive experience in perianesthesia, surgical, ambulatory and critical-care nursing and is the assistant nurse manager at the Baystate Orthopedic Surgery Center in Springfield. Previous positions include Nursing Clinical Operations manager of the Post Anesthesia Care Unit and staff nurse in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield. She has served on several boards of directors, including the Children’s Study Home, the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield, the Elms College board of trustees, and the American Society of Perianesthesia Nurses.

Arroyo is the Code Enforcement inspector for the Holyoke Board of Health and president of Arroyo Inc., an HVAC and home-improvement business. He is a deacon at his church, Iglesia Casa de Misericordia, and also involved with Iglesia Apostolica Cristiana Betzaida and the Christian radio broadcast station La Hora Zero 1490 AM.

Dress for Success, Thunderbirds Partner for Hockey ‘N Heels

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Dress for Success of Western Massachusetts will host its second annual Hockey ‘N Heels night before the Springfield Thunderbirds game against the Utica Comets on Saturday, March 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Baystate Health and Health New England will sponsor “Pink in the Rink” as part of the game. Attendees are invited to put on their best heels and join a fun ladies’ night.

A donation of $50 buys entrance to the pre-game reception, as well as admission to the Thunderbirds game, starting at 7:05 p.m. The $50 also includes a $20 donation to Dress for Success Western Massachusetts to support its programming in 2018.

During the reception, Amber Cox, vice president of the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun and the New England Black Wolves (a professional box lacrosse team), will share her experiences as a woman working in a male-dominated industry. The event will also feature samplings offered by Commercial Distributing, appetizers, and pictures with Boomer, the Thunderbirds’ mascot.

“We are excited to once again be partnering with the Springfield Thunderbirds for such a fun event,” said Dawn Creighton, president of the board of directors for Dress for Success Western Massachusetts. “It’s great to see so many organizations in our community coming together to support women.”

Click here to purchase tickets. For more information about Hockey ‘N Heels or Dress for Success of Western Massachusetts, call Margaret Tantillo at (413) 732-8179.

Dowd Insurance Agencies Hires Jeanne Kosakowski as Claims Director

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — The Dowd Insurance Agencies announced that Jeanne Kosakowski has been hired as claims director. In this role, she handles some of the personal-lines claims, all of the commercial-lines claims, and oversees all claims. 

“Jeanne joins us with over three decades of insurance experience and demonstrated customer relations that will benefit our customers,” said John E. Dowd Jr., president and CEO.

Kosakowski came to the Dowd Agencies from Hanover Insurance, where she was a commercial-lines product analyst. She received her bachelor’s degree from Russell Sage College in New York, where she was a Kellas Scholar. She is an Associate in Claims (AIC), a Certified Insurance Service Representative (CISR), and a Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC), and is currently working on her Certified Risk Manager (CRM) designation.

Kosakowski, who was named an “outstanding instructor” for the Worcester County Insurance Institute, will be based in the Dowd Agencies’ home office in Holyoke.

GSB Promotes Marcie Zimmerman to Human Resources Officer

By
Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Savings Bank (GSB) promoted Marcie Zimmerman to Human Resources officer. In this role, she is responsible for the day-to-day management of HR, including benefits administration, employee relations, payroll, affirmative-action plan, recruiting, orientation, performance management, policy implementation, and employment-law compliance.

Zimmerman joined GSB in 2009 and has worked in the field of human resources for more than 12 years. She holds a number of HR certifications, including Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), Society for Human Resources Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), and Certified Compensation Analyst (CCA).

Blue Sox Announce 2018 Schedule

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — With a championship season now in the rear-view mirror, the Blue Sox turned their attention to the defense of their crown with the release of their 2018 schedule earlier today.

The 44-game schedule will feature 22 home dates this year, with the Blue Sox due to kick off their home slate on June 9 against division rivals North Adams.

They begin defense of their NECBL Championship four days earlier on the road in Mystic on June 5, the first of a three-game road stretch to open the season. This will mark the first year in five seasons the Blue Sox have opened the season on the road. 

The Sox home schedule is noticeably back-loaded this year – with 12 games coming after July 11. The final home game of the regular season will be held on August 1, when the Sox play host to the Plymouth Pilgrims. The NECBL playoffs are scheduled to begin on August 3.

“We were pretty pleased with how the schedule played itself out this year,” said Sox General Manager Hunter Golden. “With the home schedule back loaded a bit, it’ll be meeting our fans at a point where it’s easiest and most convenient to get to our games. It’s also a load off the team, too – as when you get to that point in the season, attrition begins to kick in and with so much travel taken out of the equation, it should be a big leg up.”

More than half (13) of the team’s 22 home dates will be held on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday – a feature of the schedule that should be a boon for attendance.

 

June

6/5 – @ Mystic Schooners

6/6 – @ Keene Swamp Bats

6/8 – @ Winnipesaukee Muskrats

6/9 – vs. North Adams Steeplecats

6/10 – vs. Sanford Mainers

6/12 – @ Vermont Mountaineers

6/13 – @ North Adams Steeplecats

6/14 – vs. Keene Swamp Bats

6/15 – vs. Ocean State Waves

6/17 – vs. New Bedford Bay Sox

6/18 – @ Sanford Mainers

6/20 – @ Upper Valley Nighthawks

6/21 – vs. Sanford Mainers

6/22 – vs. Upper Valley Nighthawks

6/23 – @ Keene Swamp Bats

6/24 – vs. Winnipesaukee Muskrats

6/25 – @ Newport Gulls

6.27 – @ Winnipesaukee Muskrats

6/28 – vs. Vermont Mountaineers

6/29 – vs. Keene Swamp Bats

6/30 – @ upper Valley Nighthawks

 

July

7/1 – @ North Adams Steeplecats

7/3 – @ Plymouth Pilgrims

7/5 – @ North Adams Steeplecats

7/6 – @ Winnipesaukee Muskrats

7/8 – @ Vermont Mountaineers

7/10 – @ Ocean State Waves

7/11 – vs. North Adams Steeplecats

7/12 – vs. Vermont Mountaineers

7/13 – @ Sanford Mainers

7/14 – vs. Mystic Schooners

7/15 – vs. Danbury Westerners

7/17 – @ New Bedford Bay Sox

7/18 – vs. Vermont Mountaineers

7/19 – @ Danbury Westerners

7/20 – @ Sanford Mainers

7/21 – vs. Winnipesaukee Muskrats

7/22 – vs. Keene Swamp Bats

7/24 – vs. North Adams Steeplecats

7/25 – vs. Sanford Mainers

7/27 – vs. Upper Valley Nighthawks

7/28 – vs. Newport Gulls

7/31 – @ Upper Valley Nighthawks

 

August

8/1 – vs. Plymouth Pilgrims

8/3 – NECBL playoffs begin

Elms Names YWCA Director Elizabeth Dineen New Trustee

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — The board of trustees at College of Our Lady of the Elms has appointed Elizabeth Dineen ’77, J.D., executive director of the YWCA of Western Mass. in Springfield, MA, to be a new member of the board.

Dineen has had a long career of community service, first serving as an assistant district attorney for 25 years prosecuting child sexual abuse and rape cases, then entering an academic career as the director of the criminal justice program at Bay Path University, and now at the YWCA, whose mission — “eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all” — is consistent with that of Elms College.

Her legal career focused on helping the most vulnerable in our community, especially women and children who were the victims of sexually based and personal violence, and that focus has carried over into her work at the YWCA, which serves women and families at critical times in their lives.

“I am fortunate to have had a life and career of public service, all of which springs from the values of integrity, compassion and social justice that were fostered in me throughout my education at Elms College,” Dineen said. “The engaging classes challenged me intellectually and gave me a superb foundation for the study and practice of law.”

Dineen has served on the board of directors of Square One of Springfield, MA, which provides education programs for children, since 2013; she previously served on the board of Mont Marie Child Care Center in Holyoke, and on the appropriations committee in East Longmeadow.

Honors Dineen has earned throughout her career include: the Governor’s Award for Service to the Commonwealth; the YWCA Woman of Achievement Award; Top Women of Law from Massachusetts Lawyers’ Weekly; the first Justice Kent B. Smith Award (2010) from the Hampden County Bar Association; the City of Holyoke: Mayor’s Certificate of Recognition (2004); the Massachusetts Bar Association’s Access to Justice Award — Prosecutor of the Year (2003); and the Elms College Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni Award.

UMass Dining App Wins Two Awards

By
Daily News

AMHERST — The UMass Dining mobile app has been recognized in the Web Marketing Association’s sixth annual international MobileWebAwards Competition as both the Best University Mobile Application and the Best of Show Mobile Application of 2017.

UMass Dining’s mobile app’s key features include up-to-date menus, operating hours, and contact information for all dining common locations, the ability to view real-time traffic updates for each DC, having access to UMass Dining’s on-campus events information, and the ability to personalize one’s menu for dietary preferences and allergens. 

Each website and mobile application in this year’s MobileWebAwards Competition were assessed based on several criteria: creativity, impact, design, content, interactivity, ease of use and the use of the medium. Each entry was evaluated in comparison to the websites and mobile apps within the same format in its industry and then judged for an overall standard of excellence.

“We are thrilled to receive such positive recognition about our app,” says Ken Toong, executive director of auxiliary enterprises at UMass Amherst. “Our goal is to make the dining experience on the UMass campus truly exceptional. Our app contributes greatly to this mission, and we would like to continue to leverage technology to enhance our customer experience. All the credit goes to our terrific team who made this app a reality.”

Balise Continues to Expand Its Portfolio of Facilities

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Autos Sections

On the Move — Always

The new car wash in West Springfield is the latest addition to an ever-growing portfolio of facilities for the Balise Auto Group.

The new car wash in West Springfield is the latest addition to an ever-growing portfolio of facilities for the Balise Auto Group.

As he talked about the very latest addition to the already-expansive portfolio for the Balise Auto Group, a car wash just off Riverdale Street in West Springfield, Jeb Balise said it was a capital-intensive, very necessary supplement to the collection.

Capital-intensive because car washes, as some might know but others might not, are now very sophisticated, computer-operated facilities offering an ever-greater array of wash options. And necessary because … well, consumers are becoming ever-more demanding, and, likewise, the auto business is ever-more competitive.

So auto groups like Balise need to respond with the proverbial ‘more’ and ‘better.’ ‘More,’ as in more products and services to offer those customers, and ‘better,’ as in better than the competition.

And this mindset reflects itself in everything from the company’s growing stable of car washes (there are now three, including two in Western Mass.) to the ongoing work to replace or renovate the group’s large roster of dealerships, including the Balise Nissan store a half-mile east of the car wash on Riverdale Street, to an insurance agency in Rhode Island as part of the mix.

“We’re making sure we’re giving the customer everything they want for support instead of just selling them a car,” said Balise as he talked about additions to the number of collision centers, used-car facilities, and more. “So if someone buys a car from us, they don’t have to worry about collision repair or getting their car cleaned or insurance; we can pretty much provide holistically everything they need for the life of that car.”

He offered those thoughts in an interview in one of the sales offices at Balise Nissan, the latest of the company’s dealerships to be replaced, or, in this case, given a huge makeover. Long operated under the name Jerry Rome Nissan, the facility now bears the Balise name.

Open for just over two months, the ‘new’ dealership was essentially gutted and rebuilt from the ground up, said Balise, adding that it is the first store selling this brand to incorporate new imagery and design elements developed by the carmaker.

The Nissan dealership on Riverdale Street now carries the Balise name. It’s the latest of the company’s dealerships to undergo extensive renovations or new construction.

The Nissan dealership on Riverdale Street now carries the Balise name. It’s the latest of the company’s dealerships to undergo extensive renovations or new construction.

“There was nothing left of the showroom — we stripped it right down to columns and roof, basically,” he explained. “We really rebuilt it, and you can feel it; you would never know it was a retro.”

That’s the word he chose for a dealership built in the ’80s and ’90s — before they became far more spacious (50,000 square feet in the case of the Toyota dealership, also on Riverdale Street), comfortably equipped, and customer-friendly.

As he talked about the Nissan store and offered a quick tour, pointing out its larger, revamped showroom and well-appointed service waiting area, Balise said there are a few minor touches to be completed before a grand opening can be staged — probably later this month.

And as those final touches are made, thoughts are already turning to what’s next, said Balise, adding that the company embarked on a massive campaign to make over facilities for all the brands it sells more than a decade ago, and there are still a few projects left to undertake.

One is the Balise Mazda facility on the other (north) side of Riverdale Street. Built in 1984, it is certainly showing its age, said Balise, adding that plans will be on the drawing board soon for either new construction or another extensive renovation.

Meanwhile, another nameplate in line to have a new home is Kia, which became part of the Balise stable in 2015 and has been housed in a small facility that was once a Mercedes dealership a decade ago.

Kia is a rising star in the auto galaxy, said Balise, adding that it has an attractive mix of cars, vans, and SUVs, and it will soon have a home befitting that status. Various options are currently being reviewed, and no formal plans have been announced, he went on, noting that both the Kia and Mazda facilities will be upgraded within the next 24 months.

“Our plans will be really impressive,” said Balise in reference to both projects, still in the developmental stage. “These will be either brand-new buildings or significant renovations — total change.”

As for the car washes, Balise said they are part of broader efforts to serve the full gamut of customer needs and provide additional layers of value.

The company started with a facility in Hyannis, where it also has several dealerships, then added one on East Columbus Avenue in 2016; the West Springfield location opened in January.

There are two more car washes on the drawing board for the next 24 months, said Balise, adding that the specific markets have not been identified.

The car washes offer ample evidence of consumers taking better care of their vehicles, but also of the value that auto groups are trying to provide.

Indeed, the car washes are strategically located to serve customers at the Balise dealerships (there are three on Columbus Avenue and a half-dozen on Riverdale Street), he noted.

Those who buy a car at any of the Balise dealerships get 60 days of free washes, he went on, and they also get special pricing on both everyday washes and the hugely popular ‘unlimited plans,’ whereby consumers can wash their car as often as they want for one monthly fee.

As for new dealerships, the company is always looking for new opportunities — in this market and others, he went on, adding that, despite an ongoing wave of consolidation within the industry, there are still a number of single dealerships and small groups that could be added to the portfolio if the conditions were right.

“Even with all the consolidation, it’s still a fragmented business,” he told BusinessWest. “The majority of facilities are owned by someone who might have two or three stores, or one store.

“We’re just focusing on the best-location, best-franchise philosophy,” he went on, and then making sure our facilities exceed the customers’ expectations.”

— George O’Brien

‘Partners’ Becomes Public Health Institute of Western Mass.

By
HealthcareFeature0218b
Health Care Sections

New Name, Evolving Mission

Jessica Collins and Frank Robinson say the organization’s mission to create a healthier community hasn’t changed, but is simply being honed and refocused.

Jessica Collins and Frank Robinson say the organization’s mission to create a healthier community hasn’t changed, but is simply being honed and refocused.

Partners for a Healthier Community recently initiates a rebrand, and is now known as the Public Health Institute of Western Mass., a name that officials say more accurately reflects what this agency has evolved into over the past 22 years and the critical role it plays within the region.

As she talked about a rebranding effort involving the agency now formerly known as Partners for a Healthier Community Inc. (PFHC), Jessica Collins said the project wasn’t initiated because the name chosen in 1996 didn’t convey what the nonprofit is or does.

Rather, it’s because the new name eventually chosen — Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts — and its accompanying logo do the job much better.

Indeed, while the agency is a partner in a number of initiatives to improve overall population health in the region, the original name didn’t convey the full breadth of its portfolio of services, said Collins, its executive director. Nor did it really define just what the ‘community’ in question happens to be.

Most importantly, though, it didn’t fully communicate the agency’s role as a change agent when it comes to the overall health and well-being of the communities it serves and especially those populations that are underserved.

So last fall, PFHC, working in cooperation with the marketing and advertising agency Paul Robbins & Associates, went about coming up something more accurate and specific.

The new name, which was unveiled at an elaborate ceremony at the agency’s offices within the Community Music School building in downtown Springfield, was chosen for several reasons that we’ll get into shortly.

First, though, we need to elaborate on why a rebranding was necessary at this time. Indeed, such initiatives are time-consuming, expensive, and bring change, an always tricky proposition, into the equation.

For starters, PFHC joined the National Network of Public Health Institutes in 2014, Collins said, adding that, as part of the process of joining that organization, the agency needed to identify its core competencies.

And for PFHC, those are research and evaluation, convening and coalition building, and policy and advocacy.

“Given those three core competencies, it felt natural to go with the Public Health Institute of Western Mass., coming from that national perspective,” Collins explained. “Also, there was some confusion about our organization because there are several agencies in the Greater Springfield area that have the word ‘Partners’ already in their title.”

What’s more, a rebrand provides an opportunity for an agency or business re-emphasize its mission, how it is carried out, its history, and its plans for the future. Or “reintroduce itself,” as Collins put it, adding that, for many, the institute needs no introduction, while for many others, it does.

The unveiling of the new name was part of that effort, she said, but there will be other initiatives to build awareness of the overall mission as well as specific projects, such as:

• The Springfield Youth Health Data Project, a health survey among Springfield public-school eighth-graders in 2015 and 2017. The project is part of a larger initiative that includes the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, a tool developed by the Centers for Disease Control and administered to 10th- and 12th-graders in Springfield;

• Springfield Complete Streets, funded by a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Policies for Action Grant. The initiative involves a study of Springfield’s Complete Streets policy and, specifically, policies that support roadways designed and operated for the safety of everyone using them — whether by car, bike, foot, or bus;

• The Healthy Homes Initiative, which brings together housing and healthcare providers to pay for home improvements in Springfield specifically related to asthma control — mold and moisture remediation, pest control, ventilation and air quality, and removal of carpeting that harbors dust and other allergens — with the goal of keeping asthma sufferers out of the hospital;

• Springfield’s Climate Action & Resilience Plan. The institute is leading the outreach and engagement of residents and key stakeholders around implementation of a plan to make Springfield a resilient, healthy city; and

• Age-friendly City, an initiative that will create a senior leadership program to train older adults to be effective age-friendly community advocates, conduct an environmental scan on housing and transportation, and work toward achieving an age-friendly status for Springfield.

As those projects indicate, the agency has taken even more of that change-agent role, while also becoming more focused on the collection and implementation of the data that is critical when it comes to everything from enacting health-policy changes to winning critical funding for initiatives to improve the health and well-being of neighborhoods, a city, or an entire region.

PFHC needed a new name and logo that brought that message home, and Public Health Institute of Western Mass. does just that.

For this issue, we’ll talk a little about this rebranding effort, and a lot about the institute and the critical work it is undertaking across the region.

Bright Ideas

As mentioned, the new name comes complete with a new logo.

Actually, it’s a remake of the old logo, imagery of a sun. The new look is larger, brighter, and the sun rays, if you will, are aligned to replicate the lines on a bar graph — a nod to the agency’s dual missions to collect data and put that data to use to improve quality of life in the region.

“We had always done the coalition and advocacy building, but over the past few years we’ve really dug deeper into bringing expertise around research and evaluation,” Collins explained. “The new name and logo bring a more academic framing to the work that we’re doing.

“We want people to understand that we’re the place to come to if they want health data — if they want data that is highlighting inequities and, therefore, identifies populations that are in need of more attention and resources and investment,” she went on. “We want people to come to us if they have policy issues and need us to organize and create advocacy strategies, and we want people to come to us, as they always have, if they have new and innovative ideas or if there are gaps and issues that need to be convened around.”

All of this comes across in the new name, where each word or phrase carries some significance: ‘public’ for obvious reasons; ‘health’ (it’s in red while the rest of the words are in black on the letterhead); ‘institute,’ which conveys research and data; and ‘Western Massachusetts,’ because the agency needs to make clear that its work extends well beyond Springfield.

Also, there is a subtitle, ‘Partners for Health Equity,’ which brings home the point that the institute partners with other entities on all of its initiatives, and that its work is focused on making sure that all those in the region have an equal opportunity for a healthy life, regardless of where they live.

While the words and the logo are certainly significant, what’s behind them is what the agency is working to emphasize with this rebranding.

And as we commence that discussion, it’s probably best to go back to the beginning. That was in 1996, when a group of area healthcare leaders, led by Sr. Mary Caritas, then retired from her role as president of Mercy Hospital (now Mercy Medical Center), sought creation of a new public entity focused on improving health and well-being in Greater Springfield.

The goal back then was to create a space where competing health organizations and other entities, including the city of Springfield, could sit at the same table and work together to make the community a healthier place, said Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations at Baystate Health, who was one of those on the ground floor, if you will.

“With that ambitious agenda, the notion was, ‘what are the things that need to be changed? What’s interfering with a good portion of the Springfield population living healthy lives?’” Robinson explained. “That social-justice framework was at the root of the organization’s inception, and it has maintained that viewpoint.”

The mission has always been to create a measurably healthier community, he continued, putting heavy emphasis on that word. And while the mission hasn’t really shifted, what has happened over the past 21 years is that the focus and the interventions have become more precise, more targeted.

“And with that additional precision and targeting, we’ve become more of a specialist than a generalist,” Robinson explained. “The general work is still occurring, but the specialty work is really taking center stage.”

The agency’s broad role has shifted somewhat as well, he went on, from being merely a supporter of various coalitions to a being a change agent in its own right.

This is reflected in some of the success stories the agency has helped write over the years, including:

• The BEST Oral Health Program, which created a local system of education, screening, and treatment for preschools to decrease instances of oral diseases;

• The Pioneer Valley Asthma Coalition, created to improve asthma management and indoor air quality (two Springfield schools received national recognition for the program, and Holyoke Public Schools adopted similar policies in 2017);

• A “Health Impact Assessment on the Western Massachusetts Casino,” a 2013 study that highlighted the health impact of vulnerable populations and increased community understanding of these potential impacts;

• Live Well Springfield. Undertaken in partnership with the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, the project is designed to improve access to health eating and active living opportunities. Signature projects undertaken as part of the initiative include the formation of the Springfield Food Policy Council, the sucessful, seven-year Go Fresh Mobile Farmer’s Market, and policies such as zoning, community gardens, and Complete Streets ordinances; and

•The YEAH! (Youth Empowerment Adolescent Health) Network, which engages diverse community stakeholders who work together to create a proactive, comprehensive response to adverse adolescent sexual health and adolescent sexuality. Between 2004 and 2015, there were significant reductions in teen birth rates in Springfield and Holyoke, and work continues to address inequities.

Data Driven

But it is in the collection and use of data that the agency has seen the greatest movement when it comes to its mission and how it has evolved over the past decades.

Indeed, as the nation, the region, and area healthcare providers continue a shift toward population health — keeping residents healthy as opposed to simply treating them when they are sick — data becomes critical, said Robinson.

Elaborating, he said providers, advocates, legislators, and, yes, foundations administering grant money use data to identify problems and where, specifically, they are occurring. But they also use it to create responses to the issues identified by this data.

The agency focuses on population data, which often comes from the state Department of Public Health, Collins explained, adding that it also works with the Springfield public schools to generate data on a large, diverse population.

“And we are able to tease out whether issues are at a block level, a neighborhood, a census track, a city, or county,” Collins explained. “We’re able to analyze data and create the story of what is going on in our region; we’re able to localize the data so people here can understand it and take action.”

Perhaps the best recent example of this is the so-called Healthy Hill Initiative, a broad-ranging effort to improve the health and well-being of those in Springfield’s Old Hill neighborhood, a program that earned the participating partners (and there were many of them) a Healthcare Heroes award (the new recognition program launched by BusinessWest and HCN) in the category of ‘Collaboration in Healthcare.’

“Their plan of action was driven by data provided to them around block groups within that neighborhood concerning health-status indicators such as asthma, obesity, public safety, and more,” Robinson explained. “Mapping that information helped to target the interventions and support the plan; the community organizing is data-driven in the sense that they’re using the data to inform both the intervention and whether they made a difference.”

Another example would the Springfield Health Equity Report, issued in 2014, said Collins, adding that the agency stratified data by race and ethnicity.

“So when you look at an issue like cardiovascular disease, or obesity, or teen-pregnancy rates, having this stratified data is critical,” she explained. “When you look at state-wide rates for teen pregnancy, for example, everyone’s thrilled because the state rate has come down considerably.

“But if you really look at the data and stratify it by race and ethnicity, you’ll see that the white-girl teen-pregnancy rates have gone down significantly, and so have teens of color,” she went on. “But you still see an incredible inequity and disparity between the two populations, and that’s what we try to lift up and shine a light on, so we’re not all clapping and saying ‘our job is done’ — there are still specific populations that need more resources and investment.”

The only way specific coalitions battling health issues ranging from asthma to obesity to teen pregnancy can determine if they are making an impact — and the desired impact — is through this data, Collins went on, adding that this reality not only explains the new name and logo, but, more importantly, where her agency’s emphasis will be moving forward.

Name of the Game

As Collins noted, there were several motivating forces behind this rebrand.

There was an effort to stem confusion given all the agencies with ‘Partners’ in their name, but also the need to better communicate just how much the agency had evolved into a true change agent since it was created in 1996.

But there was also that desire to reintroduce area residents, officials, and other constituencies to the important work it carries out, and to remind all of them that there is considerable work still to do.

So, to that rhetorical question, ‘what’s in a name?’ or, in this case, a new name? Plenty — and it is, for lack of a better term, a healthy exercise.

George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]

Technology Expands to Help Seniors Age in Place

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Health Care Sections

Secure Connections

The Baby Boom generation isn’t just marching into retirement — they’re positively surging into their senior years, with some 10,000 Americans reaching age 65 each day.

Yet, despite the fact that senior-living communities have become increasingly modernized, specialized, and resident-focused, nearly 90% of seniors want to stay in their own homes as they age, according to the American Assoc. of Retired Persons.

And technology is helping them do just that — everything from home-monitoring devices to GPS trackers (for loved ones with dementia); from medication reminders to automatic stove turn-offs, and more . All of it is intended to lend both security to seniors living alone and peace of mind to their loved ones.

Older Americans welcome the trend — according to the AARP survey, even if they begin to need day-to-day assistance or ongoing healthcare during retirement, 82% would still prefer to stay in their own homes. Yet, the stereotype often lingers of seniors being technophobes averse to change.

“Many Boomers disagree with that statement, finding it insulting or pessimistic or both,” writes Laurie Orlov, principal analyst for Aging in Place Technology Watch, a market-research organization that provides analysis and guidance about technologies and services that enable seniors to remain longer in their home of choice. “They will repeat plaintively that Baby Boomers are very different than their parents’ generation. They are comfortable with technology. See how many have smartphones — they text, use Facebook and YouTube. Many book travel online, read Trip-Advisor reviews, and even call for car pickups with an app.”

So why not embrace technology meant to improve quality of life and — just as important — independence? Especially, Orlov noted, when there are so many options, from a simple door sensor or a sophisticated whole-home automation and security system.

In the case of the former, simple technology can have profound results. “If an older adult is alone at home, enters a room, and does not return past the sensor, an alert is sent to a family member or other predefined organization, thus enabling an attempt to contact the older adult, and, if no answer, to dispatch help.”

Rachel Walker, an assistant professor in the UMass Amherst College of Nursing, has focused much of her research on addressing health disparities and the care of older adults with cancer and other serious illnesses. She’s also on the faculty for the Center for Personalized Health Monitoring (CPHM), one of three centers that make up the Institute for Applied Life Sciences at UMass Amherst, one that aims to accelerate the development and commercialization of low-cost, wearable, wireless sensor systems for personalized healthcare and biometric monitoring — but always with a focus on the human side of care.

“Oftentimes in the national news, there’s a lot of focus on the technologies — things like wearable sensors and home health monitors,” she explained. “A lot of clinicians and practitioners like myself work with individuals out in the community who experience these health challenges as they age, and there aren’t too many places that merge those two ends of the spectrum.”

Through the Wires

One reason technology isn’t an end-all, Walker said, is because, while 90% of older adults prefer to stay in place, it’s a bigger challenge in the more rural areas of Western Mass., where people may not have access to broadband and high-speed wireless service.

“That’s a sticky wicket. We’re embracing technology more and more, in this digital arena where people also expect to access their health record [electronically]; all these things are on the horizon, but we have whole communities in this region that have yet to get high-speed access.

“The team I work with, we would like to develop solutions that put control back in the hands of actual individuals and their caregivers,” she went on, adding that they’re using grant funds to develop a home-assessment tool that’s compatible with people’s smartphones. “Most users, even in places without high-speed wireless, have access to smartphones.”

Susan Keel, an aging-in-place specialist, recently told HGTV that a robust whole-home security system can be installed for the same cost as one month in an assisted-living facility. “With a system like this, you can remotely log in on a smartphone or the Internet, and, via the devices connected to the system, monitor your loved one’s activities.”

On a smaller scale, Orlov said personal emergency-response systems — wearable devices that can be used to alert outsiders of a health emergency or fall — is currently a $3 billion market that has evolved only slightly from its origins. But one important advance has been their use outside the home.

“The ‘I’ve fallen’ message is still inspiring families and seniors to acquire one. But 30% of the market’s sales are for mobile devices. This makes sense in this time of substantial life expectancy at age 65, when 46% of women aged 75+ live alone,” she notes. “Mobility demands mobile devices, which in turn boost confidence to be out and about. Consider walking the dog — since one-third of the 65+ population has one.”

The Center for Personalized Health Monitoring consolidates expertise from polymer science and engineering, computer science, kinesiology, and neuroscience as well as from other departments and collaborators, such as the UMass Medical School and industry, to develop solutions that consider the whole person, not just technology, Walker told BusinessWest.

For example, “we’re trying to better understand what specific exercises older adults can do to improve their lower-extremity balance and strength, so they don’t have as much risk for falls,” she explained.

At the same time, however, “we’re working on home sensor networks to determine how people are using the space, so we can optimize their environment. We’ve also focused on some of the data-security problems, to make sure information is kept secure from hackers.”

In short, Walker said, there’s plenty of room for technology to help people understand their environment and manage chronic conditions and symptoms, such as fatigue and sleep impairments that, if not addressed over time, can wear the body down and lead to other types of disability. “We try to avoid that so people can stay in their homes as long as possible as they continue to age.”

Human Touch

As amazing as it is, technology doesn’t have all the answers, writes elder-care specialist Michelle Seitzer at Care.com.

“It should never be used to supplement actual caregiving — only enhance it. Certain situations may require a caregiver’s assistance or physical presence (be it a family member, neighbor, or a senior-care aide) for a few hours a week, overnight, or most of the day.

“There may also come a time when it’s just not safe for your loved one to stay home — no matter how many webcams you install,” she continues. “If a senior doesn’t answer the phone, seems withdrawn, falls frequently, misses medications, or wanders off regularly, you may need to look beyond technology. Think about options like hiring a home-care aide or finding senior housing. Figure out what works best for your loved one and the situation, and be open to changes along the way.”

Walker said her team at UMass focuses on concepts of dignity, capability, and healthcare equity in the senior years, and not on technology for its own sake.

“Any time we start a new project, we ask if there is really a need for this technology or new device. Are we building something people really need? Secondly, how will it fit into the life of the person it’s designed for? Also, who’s been left out? A lot of technology is built for the upper middle class, and that’s certainly a need, but we need to make sure what we’re building doesn’t systematically exclude certain individuals like rural residents, with no high-speed wireless access.”

Then there are unintended consequences. “Are we making someone reliant on a device, so if something breaks on the device, they’re left without a safety net to get their needs met?”

It’s an important question to keep in mind as the worlds of elder care and technology continue to cross-fertilize in new, intriguing ways.

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Plenty of Options Available for Home-monitoring Technology

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Health Care Sections

Left to Their Own Devices

While residential care services have broadened in recent years for seniors unable to live independently, technology has emerged as well to help older people stay in their homes longer, if they so choose — while giving some peace of mind to their families. Here are a few currently available devices, and what the health-tech media is saying about them.

GPS Trackers

Individuals with dementia face specific challenges at home — particularly the possibility they might wander from that home. To counter that challenge, a number of trackers, many that operate with global positioning system (GPS) technology, have emerged on the market.

A solution to wandering from the Alzheimer’s Assoc., the Comfort Zone Check-In application ($10 per month) allows caregivers to use a small tracking device to monitor their loved one with dementia.

“Comfort Zone Check-In combines the latest technology with flexibility, allowing families to change devices and plans as a person’s disease progresses and monitoring needs change,” according to the Alzheimer’s Assoc. “Using GPS and cellular technologies with online mapping, the entire family can proactively determine the location of the person with Alzheimer’s. Families log into a secure, password-protected website similar to logging into most e-mail systems and proactively establish safety zones.”

“Comfort Zone Check In has the potential to give peace of mind, both to those who care for Alzheimer’s patients, as well as patients themselves, who can get frustrated or distressed when people will not let them do anything independently,” noted Health and Life in a review. “It is not an over-exaggeration to say that Comfort Zone Check In could have a dramatic impact on Alzheimer’s care, especially as research continues to unlock the complexities of the condition and we understand more and more about it.

A new cellular tracking device, iTraq3 ($149) uses cellular towers to determine location, allowing it to be used anywhere there is service. The device itself is as small as a credit card, and its location is reported through a mobile application which allows the user to view a map of locations and timestamps. Itraq also features a ‘guard mode’ where users can specify a radius on a map, then receive alerts if and when the itraq goes beyond the pre-set radius.

“iTraq is a remarkable cellular tracking device for iPhone or iPad,” iGeeksBlog notes. “Being developed as the most effective gadget to track your things, it is the world’s first global location device. As iTraq uses cellular towers to determine location, it can be located anywhere else in the world where cellular service exists.”

Meanwhile, Pocketfinder ($159), a small, waterproof GPS devices, allow users to not only view a GPS location, but also an address, distance from the address, and the speed the device is moving. The app provides updates at the touch of a button through e-mail and text notifications. It also provides an unlimited number of ‘geofences’ that send an alert when the GPS leaves a specified area.

“While there are several similar GPS technologies in the market,” Digifloor notes, “PocketFinder removes the complexities of modern wireless technologies and offers a simple and easy solution that helps people coordinate and communicate with people and things.”

In-home Sensors

Rather than track people outside the home, another class of devices helps people know what their loved ones are up to in their homes. Activity-based sensors can reassure that the resident is up and about, carrying out daily tasks — or not.

For example, Alarm.com’s Wellness independent living solution ($99) integrates a suite of sensors and devices, and applies machine-learning algorithms to the data they generate to detect changes that may suggest risks. Wellness can report about changes in activity levels, sleeping and eating patterns, bathroom-visit frequency, and medication adherence, as well as emergency situations like wandering out of the home or falls.

“Far from being a contemporary Big Brother, the system provides real-time info on your loved one’s whereabouts and well-being, all without the use of intrusive cameras,” Reviewed reports. “The system uses a combination of bed-presence monitors, motion sensors, and panic buttons to track movement and alert users and caregivers of any unexpected changes in routine.”

One of the newest devices is the Inirv React ($239), which connects the stove to a sensor in the home and a smartphone app. The sensor will automatically turn the stove off if it no longer detects motion around the appliance after a long period of time. The stove can also be turned off remotely using a smartphone.

“You can control individual burners through your phone, of course, but the real star of the show is a sensor that sits on your ceiling,” according to Engadget. “If it detects gas, smoke, or prolonged inactivity, it automatically shuts off active burners. You shouldn’t have to worry about sparking a house fire just because you forgot to switch the stove off before you left for the movies.”

Meanwhile, the iGuardStove Intelligent ($495) is a pricier way to shut off the stove if a loved one is away from the cooktop for too long. It automatically shuts off the stove if cooking is left unattended, thanks to a two-part system of a power box and motion detector.

“The built-in wi-fi can help keep you posted online about how often the system has to shut down off your stove and send you alerts if it’s happening a little too often,” CNET notes. “The iGuardStove Intelligent is a good product if you are concerned about yourself or a loved one leaving a stove unattended.”

LifeAssist Technologies has developed the Reminder Rosie ($99), a clock that allows the recording of personalized messages and reminders that will be broadcast at scheduled times for whomever is in the home — perhaps a reminder to take medication or that the grandchildren will be coming over for dinner.

“Using revolutionary speech recognition technologies, Reminder Rosie announces multiple, loud, personalized reminder alarms at specific times daily, weekly, on a specific date, annually, in any language,” Caregiver Products reports. “Rosie can also tell the time, date, or today’s reminders to help organize each day. This talking alarm clock provides a simple solution to help users remember medications, appointments, household tasks, social activities, and other helpful information without touching any buttons. Reminder Rosie is a low-tech, stress-free memory aid that seniors or those with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or memory loss can actually use.”

Emergency pendants with fall detection serve a specific purpose, and have been around for longer than most other technologies in this article. Worn around the wrist or neck, they can be pressed in case of an emergency, such as after a fall, and a call is immediately made to 911 and/or pre-programmed numbers of family members.

Along with its lightweight and waterproof design, Philips Lifeline products are some of the more popular solutions on the market: HomeSafe, with autoalert fall detection (from $44.95 per month), works at home, while its GoSafe pendant, with autoalert and two-way voice (from $54.95 per month), uses up to six locating technologies, including GPS, to find someone in an emergency.

Medication Reminders

Then there are medication reminders, a field that has attracted plenty of innovation in recent years, with devices designed to remind, dispense, and manage medication.

Top5Reviews chooses as its favorite model the medSmart e-Pill automatic dispenser ($490), which comes with two keys, six daily alarms, a patient-compliance dashboard, and alarms that alert with sound and blinking lights.

“One buyer that we spoke to applauds its particularly deep medication compartments, compared to other models on the market,” the site notes. “One word of caution: it is a good buy only if the person taking the medicine is able to remember what the alarm signifies, is able to actually get the medicine out of the dispenser, and who are likely to take the pills right after removing them from the e-Pill.

For a budget option, Wirecutter, in its reviews of e-pill products, noted that the clock of the 31-day MedCenter System monthly pill organizer ($96) “was the easiest and most intuitive to program of any device we tested. If you can set a bedside alarm clock, you can set up this reminder device.

“However,” it went on, “you need to load the MedCenter’s pill trays, which each have their own plastic cover — individually, a task that can be a little arduous if you’re planning out a whole month. And you can’t individually lock the plastic pill caddies, which makes this model fine for a self-care situation or one where the patient is fully aware and not easily confused.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Building Permits

By
Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the months of January and February 2018.

CHICOPEE

J. and N. Salema Family
480 Burnett Road
$6,000 — Replace water-damaged sheetrock and ceiling tiles

U-Haul Real Estate Co.
878 Memorial Dr.
$4,000 — Demolish partition walls

EASTHAMPTON

Autumn Properties, LLC
161-165 Northampton St.
$8,850 — Add interior partitions to create extra offices

Cumberland Farms
2211 Northampton St.
$1,022,350 — Construct convenience store with fuel stations, canopy, and parking

Keystone Enterprises
122 Pleasant St.
$18,500 — Install HVAC system for Float Therapy Spa

U.S. Bank
13 Sterling Dr.
$24,500 — Remove and replace existing roof covering; interior renovations

EAST LONGMEADOW

The Arbor’s Kids
126 Industrial Dr.
$177,755 — Renovations

East Longmeadow Wellness Center
250 North Main St.
$18,000 — Sheet metal

Fairview Extended Care
305 Maple St.
$5,000 — Construction trailer

Irina’s Décor
100 Shaker Road
$3,000 — Sheet metal

HADLEY

220 Russell Street, LLC
220 Russell St.
$615,000 — New steel building for Wagging Tail, a new canine daycare center

Gibbs Oil Co., LP
110 Russell St.
$2,175 — Reface two signs

Town of Hadley
15 East St.
$15,000 — Verizon Wireless to replace antennas with new models and install remote radio heads to existing cell tower

LONGMEADOW

Longmeadow Country Club
400 Shaker Road
$15,900 — Demo and removal of walk-in coolers

Mario Davis Magnani
791 Maple Road
$2,550 — Add two illuminated signs to roof

LUDLOW

Country Bank
64 Cherry St.
$6,500 — Demolition

Country Bank
64 Cherry St.
$12,000 — Illuminated sign

Country Bank
64 Cherry St.
$2,100 — Illuminated sign

NORTHAMPTON

City of Northampton
6 Water St.
$5,688 — Reroof building for Water Department

City of Northampton
125 Locust St.
$11,368 — Reroof storage building at Department of Public Works

City of Northampton
23 Center St.
$664,350 — Concrete and masonry repair and waterproofing at Police Department; new plaza deck drain installations

Cumberland Farms Inc.
53 Main St.
$800 — Reface ground-mounted illuminated sign

Five College Realtors
92 Main St.
$2,800 — Illuminated wall sign

Five College Realtors
92 Main St.
$2,800 — Illuminated wall sign

O’Connell Oil Associates Inc.
506 Pleasant St.
$6,000 — Two illuminated canopy signs at Shell gas station

P + Q, LLC
110 Main St.
$1,000 — Non-illuminated wall sign

Saga Communications of NE Inc.
15 Hampton Ave.
$12,500 — Install new drop ceiling in conference room and install refrigerator in break room

SOUTHWICK

Westfield River Brewing Co.
707 College Highway
$20,000 — Lighting and windows on second floor

SPRINGFIELD

3640 Main St., LLP
3640 Main St., Suite 101
$289,934 — Interior renovations for use as an MRI center

Baystate Health
3350 Main St.
$988,766 — Renovate existing suite into infusion space

Mike Bergdoll
1271 Page Blvd.
$53,000 — Renovate Swift Trip gas station and convenience store

F.L. Roberts
275 Albany Ave.
$25,000 — Concrete pad for new building

GF Enterprises
633 Liberty St.
$202,000 — Upgrade building exterior of Taco Bell restaurant with new paint and signage, upgrade dining room, and ensure bathrooms are ADA-compliant

Liberty Medical Associates, LLP
125 Liberty St.
$14,820 — Construct wall to enclose future break room, add door, and remove sink in Suite 408; construct closet and add door in Suite 402

MassDevelopment Finance Agency
1550 Main St.
$55,580 — Renovate area into two conference rooms for Alekman DiTusa

Mercy Medical Center
271 Carew St.
$35,732 — Demolish casework, wall, and doors; install new finishes, new wall configuration, millwork, and doors

Mercy Medical Center
271 Carew St.
$17,107 — Build wall and hard ceiling to set back a door which is currently an egress/safety issue

Monarch Enterprise
1414 Main St.
$173,700 — Remodel existing space into a new Starbucks coffee shop

VIP Nail Salon
1704 Boston Road
$7,400 — Electrical and plumbing

WESTFIELD

City of Westfield
25 Dartmouth St.
Renovation to existing building

Governor’s Center RE, LLC
66 South Broad St.
Construct new bathroom and kitchenette

Rosow Westfield, LLC
66 South Broad St.
$36,900 — Install new garage door, construct new load-bearing walls, and construct new offices

Rosow Westfield, LLC
66 South Broad St.
$13,700 — Steel beam and support columns

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Century Investment Co.
219 Memorial Ave.
$54,400 — Interior tenant remodeling for purpose of retail sales

Crosslight Gospel Church
2611 Westfield St.
$10,000 — Construct storage area on side of building

General Equities
884 Westfield St.
$82,155 — Renovations, including new ceiling tiles, bathroom remodel, interior painting, new storefront glass, and siding

Drew Moyes
958 Riverdale Road
$2,000 — Alterations to interior space for Agri-Mark Inc.

Northern Rail Services Inc.
175 Circuit Ave.
$28,000 — Add dimising walls and two bathrooms

WILBRAHAM

75 Post Office Park, LLC
75 Post Office Park
$25,000 — Create interior office space for Proshred

Real Estate Transactions

By
Departments Real Estate

The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BERNARDSTON

22 South St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Alexander F. Fiorey
Seller: Paul W. Allis
Date: 01/24/18

BUCKLAND

86 Main St.
Buckland, MA 01330
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Nancy Perry-Shinn
Seller: Edward M. Cahill
Date: 01/22/18

Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Gordon M. Glier
Seller: D&S Village Rentals LLC
Date: 01/16/18

COLRAIN

82 Christian Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Thomas M. Urell
Seller: Diane E. O’Donnell
Date: 01/25/18

21 Heath Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Brian D. Godin
Seller: Heather Staas
Date: 01/26/18

CONWAY

1230 Main Poland Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Sean L. Bowden
Seller: Anita Elise Rymer 2006 TR
Date: 01/26/18

641 North Poland Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Arieh Blowers
Seller: Douglas Blowers
Date: 01/26/18

936 South Deerfield Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $117,200
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Edward W. Matus
Date: 01/24/18

DEERFIELD

470 Greenfield Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Bittersweet Bakery & Cafe
Seller: Philip J. Savage
Date: 01/17/18

Mill Village Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: John G. Savage Realty Corp.
Seller: Dorothy H. Rosario
Date: 01/19/18

555 River Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: John E. Davis
Seller: Michael M. Fisher
Date: 01/23/18

102 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Trademark At Sugarloaf
Seller: Diane M. Lilly RET
Date: 01/19/18

104 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Trademark At Sugarloaf
Seller: Diane M. Lilly RET
Date: 01/19/18

GREENFIELD

1003 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $167,500
Buyer: Nathaniel Desroches
Seller: Carl T. Hoynoski
Date: 01/24/18

9 Bowles St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: James Richards
Seller: John B. Dunphy
Date: 01/26/18

31 Cedar St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $144,000
Buyer: Patrick Cote
Seller: Bruno INT
Date: 01/19/18

234 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Patrick Varner
Seller: Myra Tucker TR
Date: 01/19/18

118 Maple St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $179,500
Buyer: Stephen N. Ross
Seller: Catherine M. Letourneau
Date: 01/16/18

91 Montague City Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Elinor Janvrin
Seller: Theresa L. Holmes
Date: 01/18/18

241 Wells St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Robert D. Ryan
Seller: Charlene James
Date: 01/16/18

LEVERETT

118 Long Plain Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $214,250
Buyer: Susan B. Lloyd
Seller: Christal Cutler
Date: 01/23/18

MONTAGUE

10 Gunn Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Christopher K. Newman
Seller: Henry Komosa
Date: 01/24/18

468 Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Corey M. Sutton
Seller: Michael P. Fahey
Date: 01/26/18

20 Morris Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Cody R. Wells
Seller: Keith Mildren
Date: 01/26/18

27 Park St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Christian T. Bowman
Seller: Steven Keyes
Date: 01/26/18

NORTHFIELD

68 Capt. Beers Plain Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Jennifer C. Coleman
Seller: Christina M. Flynn
Date: 01/18/18

438 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Peter Moretti
Seller: Hanrahan IRT
Date: 01/19/18

447 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $221,000
Buyer: Amanda L. Knox
Seller: Herman W. Clark
Date: 01/19/18

515 Orange Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: David Skorupa
Seller: James A. Cullen
Date: 01/25/18

ORANGE

161 Drew Blvd. #23
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: James P. Gebo
Seller: Verne Goldsher
Date: 01/22/18

25 Fairman Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Cherish A. Eastman
Seller: Pamela E. Harris
Date: 01/24/18

31 James Lane
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Omar Laza
Seller: Derek Catrambone
Date: 01/25/18

335 North Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $204,000
Buyer: Barbara A. Schneller
Seller: Tracy A. Clarke
Date: 01/19/18

526 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Michael J. Verock
Seller: James P. Gebo
Date: 01/22/18

SHELBURNE

28 Severance St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Krunal Y. Patel
Seller: FNMA
Date: 01/17/18

WARWICK

212 Old Winchester Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $212,500
Buyer: Emily L. Hemingway
Seller: Charles E. Lisowski
Date: 01/19/18

WHATELY

Egypt Road #C
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Marc-Alan Labreque
Seller: Walter R. Thayer
Date: 01/23/18

17-21 River Road
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $461,000
Buyer: Ashlee B. Haslett
Seller: Mary Lou Green RET
Date: 01/16/18

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

45 Cecile St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Audrey Suskind-Decosmo
Seller: Ryan J. Roberts
Date: 01/26/18

32 Coronet Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Conant
Seller: Edna J. Willets
Date: 01/19/18

107 Coronet Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Robert Landauer
Seller: Martin J. Andruss
Date: 01/26/18

53 Farmington Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $523,000
Buyer: Alyssa M. Luszcz
Seller: Hillside Development Corp.
Date: 01/26/18

79 Farmington Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Vyacheslav Babinov
Seller: Hillside Development Corp.
Date: 01/26/18

11 High Meadow Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $280,285
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Nichole D. Salvi
Date: 01/25/18

45 Lango Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Yuri G. Grechka
Seller: PBI Inc.
Date: 01/19/18

5 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $2,250,000
Buyer: Crossroads RT
Seller: Grand Run Holdings 1 LLC
Date: 01/25/18

9-11 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $2,250,000
Buyer: Crossroads RT
Seller: Grand Run Holdings 1 LLC
Date: 01/25/18

291 River Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $232,500
Buyer: Jessica Dominik
Seller: Joseph M. Pafumi
Date: 01/26/18

44 Royal St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Ann M. Trexler
Date: 01/17/18

4-28 Southwick St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $2,250,000
Buyer: Crossroads RT
Seller: Grand Run Holdings 1 LLC
Date: 01/25/18

28 Spruce Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $363,000
Buyer: Frances G. Marthone
Seller: Deborah A. Duquette
Date: 01/26/18

BRIMFIELD

31 Echo Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $149,600
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Tonia L. Jacque
Date: 01/17/18

51 Knollwood Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $148,035
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: David G. Kindberg
Date: 01/26/18

74 Monson Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Calvin G. French
Seller: Christopher S. Elmore
Date: 01/16/18

280 Warren Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Steven R. Prest
Seller: Richard H. Phifer
Date: 01/16/18

CHESTER

27 Lyman Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Sarah A. Primack
Seller: William J. Guazzo
Date: 01/26/18

CHICOPEE

1103 Burnett Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Donna Rutkowski
Seller: Duprey, Edmund F. Jr, (Estate)
Date: 01/25/18

75 Charles St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Eliezer Burgos
Seller: Andrey Katalnikov
Date: 01/18/18

Dianna Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $231,000
Buyer: Steven W. August
Seller: Sodi Inc.
Date: 01/16/18

619 Granby Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: David M. Bouthilette
Seller: Gary F. Isabelle
Date: 01/22/18

45 Marion St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Brian J. Kolodziej
Seller: M&T Bank
Date: 01/17/18

762 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Gabriel Reyes
Seller: Jennifer L. Steil
Date: 01/26/18

1774 Memorial Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $225,500
Buyer: Alejandra Torres-Ortiz
Seller: Propcity LLC
Date: 01/24/18

49 Oakwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Lucas Rosa
Seller: Michelle L. Vieu
Date: 01/26/18

193 Saint James Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Church Of God House
Seller: Order Of Ahepa Altis Chapter
Date: 01/22/18

447 Springfield St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Apurv Realty LLC
Seller: Aura LLC
Date: 01/25/18

EAST LONGMEADOW

13 Acorn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Hayley E. Durand
Seller: Plumtree Associates Inc.
Date: 01/22/18

3 Bettswood Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $184,935
Buyer: Stephanie J. Peterson
Seller: Kenneth A. Peterson
Date: 01/19/18

139 Brookhaven Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Tiffany Holmes-Sears
Seller: Evert O. Lindgren
Date: 01/24/18

16 Fields Dr. #16
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Eric L. Berg
Seller: DR Chestnut LLC
Date: 01/16/18

45 Linden Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Dorothea K. Radzicki
Seller: Joseph P. Graveline
Date: 01/24/18

8 Mereline Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $184,500
Buyer: Michael J. Matos
Seller: Timothy Vecchiarelli
Date: 01/24/18

27 Old Farm Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Rajesh Nimbalkar
Seller: Koang Yam
Date: 01/22/18

248 Somers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Steven Maynard
Seller: Linda J. Krause
Date: 01/26/18

53 Stonehill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $422,500
Buyer: Hanati Lubega
Seller: Susan R. Kravitz
Date: 01/25/18

HAMPDEN

8 Allen Court
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: David A. Feldott
Seller: Gerald R. Feldott
Date: 01/24/18

8 Highland Circle
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Bernard F. Opitz
Seller: Stephen U. Kane
Date: 01/19/18

HOLYOKE

461-463 Appleton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,390,000
Buyer: Appleton Exchange LLC
Seller: MTCS Realty LLC
Date: 01/26/18

21 Bray Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Anthony K. Sillars
Seller: Joseph B. Blanchard
Date: 01/16/18

4 Brenan St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Andrey A. Katalnikov
Seller: Luis D. Martinez
Date: 01/26/18

290 Cherry St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Bernard R. Bergeron
Seller: Nicole M. Devlin
Date: 01/25/18

62-64 Commercial St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Appleton Exchange LLC
Seller: SCB LLC
Date: 01/26/18

137 North East St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $138,900
Buyer: Gizenia G. Boyd
Seller: Saw Construction LLC
Date: 01/18/18

87-89 Saint James Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Michael H. Henderson
Seller: Brian J. O’Connell
Date: 01/16/18

510 South Bridge St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Bridge St Equities LLC
Seller: 555 High Street LLC
Date: 01/26/18

65 Waldo St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Eladio C. Pacheco
Seller: Witman Properties Inc.
Date: 01/19/18

LONGMEADOW

141 Blueberry Hill Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $508,000
Buyer: Christopher Bushey
Seller: Rosa M. Falvo
Date: 01/26/18

39 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: Michael W. Smith
Seller: Taylor A. Buckholz
Date: 01/26/18

128 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Deborah Michael
Date: 01/18/18

55 Fernleaf Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Lachenauer LLC
Seller: PLS Realty Inc.
Date: 01/22/18

19 Forest Glen Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Angeline Fernandez
Seller: Meredith E. Kane
Date: 01/23/18

31 Maple Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Carol Godbout
Seller: Nicole C. Esposito
Date: 01/26/18

33 Tedford Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Wei Liang
Seller: Albert Fine
Date: 01/19/18

70 Warren Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Taylor A. Buckholz
Seller: Jennifer A. Buentello
Date: 01/26/18

50 Wheel Meadow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $410,600
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jane W. Mackay
Date: 01/17/18

LUDLOW

563 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: 563 Center Street LLC
Seller: S&R Realty Properties LLC
Date: 01/26/18

631 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Jeffrey H. Stratton
Seller: Grace Dias
Date: 01/23/18

Harvest Dr. #24
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $134,900
Buyer: T. E. Marinello-Mazur RET
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 01/18/18

18 Lakeview Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Melanie Dias
Seller: Vautrain, Florence, (Estate)
Date: 01/18/18

19 Letendre Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Antonio Carvalho
Seller: Sharlene G. Dec
Date: 01/19/18

MONSON

261 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Edward A. Belben
Seller: Michael J. Dalterio
Date: 01/19/18

222 Cedar Swamp Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Kristin L. Converse
Seller: James P. Bailey
Date: 01/18/18

39 Cote Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: David A. Nelson
Seller: Mark R. Pafumi
Date: 01/19/18

14 Hampden Court
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $204,000
Buyer: Larry Desreuisseau
Seller: Donald J. Vacon
Date: 01/17/18

288 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Ellis Mill Monson LLC
Seller: Tower View LLC
Date: 01/18/18

299 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Adam G. Bousquet
Seller: Darius Taylor
Date: 01/22/18

258 Silver St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Joshua J. Belliveau
Seller: Alfred T. Dobson
Date: 01/16/18

PALMER

11 Converse St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Belinda L. Sellers
Seller: Arthur F. Bechard
Date: 01/18/18

65 Griffin St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Charles Dustin
Seller: Ruby Realty LLC
Date: 01/26/18

SOUTHWICK

116 Granville Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $289,900
Buyer: Jeffrey V. Bertrand
Seller: AAA Homes LLC
Date: 01/22/18

12 Grove St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Craig R. Johnson
Seller: Charles Andrade
Date: 01/22/18

10 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $542,500
Buyer: Justin R. Klaubert
Seller: Gonzo Aguilar
Date: 01/26/18

73 North Lake Ave.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Cody Baron
Seller: Karl Schmidt
Date: 01/26/18

12 Ridgeview Terrace
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $369,400
Buyer: Viktor Moshkovskiy
Seller: Glenn J. Oski
Date: 01/22/18

SPRINGFIELD

41 Amos Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Nelson Torres
Seller: Kelly M. Worthen
Date: 01/23/18

30 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Luz P. Rios-Garcia
Seller: Rafael Garcia
Date: 01/24/18

30 Benham St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $201,500
Buyer: Jeffrey Cardoza
Seller: Janice S. Watson
Date: 01/16/18

60 Bissell St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Alex O. Owusu
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 01/25/18

104 Bretton Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Kyle A. Koloski
Seller: James J. Bertier
Date: 01/26/18

88 Brunswick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Van Truong
Seller: John B. Le
Date: 01/23/18

3 Canton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Romy Terry
Seller: Value Properties LLC
Date: 01/22/18

14 Derryfield Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Rachel A. Purcell
Seller: Arthur Ferrara
Date: 01/16/18

80 Derryfield Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Dal Ghimirey
Seller: Mary L. Shanahan
Date: 01/17/18

69 Edendale St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Keyla M. Rios
Seller: Juan Santana
Date: 01/24/18

61-63 Eloise St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $118,800
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Gerald Michel
Date: 01/17/18

149 Endicott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Ronald P. Chabot
Seller: Kevin C. Welz
Date: 01/16/18

14 French St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Karisha Gonzalez
Seller: Eliezer Burgos
Date: 01/18/18

61 Garland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Jennifer Holloway
Seller: Donald C. York
Date: 01/19/18

228 Gifford St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $155,800
Buyer: PNC Bank
Seller: Rosa G. Cintron
Date: 01/17/18

164 Hampden St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $149,400
Buyer: Ruby V. Jones
Seller: Liberty Onyx LLC
Date: 01/19/18

35 Healey St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Lillian Salgado
Seller: Thomas J. Gerrity
Date: 01/26/18

181 Laurelton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $157,900
Buyer: Pedro Aguirre
Seller: Perri Clara M., (Estate)
Date: 01/22/18

15 Lavender Lane
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Nicholas P. Diaz
Seller: William J. Laporte
Date: 01/23/18

112 Leavitt St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $124,184
Buyer: Pennymac Holdings LLC
Seller: Jeffrey A. St.Germain
Date: 01/23/18

91 Lorimer St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $122,500
Buyer: Sara M. Destromp
Seller: Christian Wiernasz
Date: 01/19/18

61 Ludlow Ave.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Norman A. Kirschbaum
Seller: William Martin
Date: 01/24/18

2000 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $2,961,538
Buyer: FRE Springfield MA Realty
Seller: Bio Medical Applications
Date: 01/16/18

32 Marsden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Robert A. Desautels
Seller: Donahue, Mary S., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/18

182 Naismith St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Luis D. Martinez
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 01/26/18

72 Orchard St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Templo Evangelistico Pentecostal
Seller: Iglesia De Dios Pentecostal
Date: 01/22/18

11 Pine Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $177,000
Buyer: Oliver Sinclair
Seller: Michael P. Kavanaugh
Date: 01/24/18

46 Ronald Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Paul Baez
Seller: Young, Joanna M., (Estate)
Date: 01/17/18

28 Rutledge Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Edwin Ortiz-Gonzalez
Seller: Jose E. Urena
Date: 01/26/18

103 South Branch Pkwy.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Daniel M. Keyes
Seller: Daniel M. Keyes
Date: 01/16/18

1603 South Branch Pkwy.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Andrew M. Barnhart
Seller: Thomas J. Cocchi
Date: 01/26/18

94 Saint Lawrence Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: Jose D. Martinez
Seller: Eric J. Pericolosi
Date: 01/19/18

260 Talmadge Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Sean P. Conway
Seller: Equity T. Co.
Date: 01/19/18

38 Upland St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Maria
Seller: Daniel G. Atherholt
Date: 01/26/18

152 Wachusett St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Adam Carrington
Seller: S&C Homebuyers LLC
Date: 01/18/18

72 Westbrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $127,920
Buyer: Loandepot Com LLC
Seller: Jason Hansen
Date: 01/25/18

100 White Birch Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $152,700
Buyer: Allison Crowner
Seller: Joann M. Lawrence
Date: 01/17/18

342 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $161,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Suarez
Seller: Blythewood Property Mgmt.
Date: 01/18/18

178 Windemere St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Alme Mercado
Seller: Wmass Residential LLC
Date: 01/22/18

31 Woodcrest Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Luke A. Dasilva
Seller: Pamela Kozlowski
Date: 01/16/18

WEST SPRINGFIELD

71 Cayenne St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Bayview Loan Servicing
Seller: Colleen C. Giroux
Date: 01/19/18

24 Chapin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Shahid M. Pasha
Seller: Pavel, Henry H., (Estate)
Date: 01/26/18

36 Craiwell Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $237,500
Buyer: Ryan D. Gawle
Seller: John R. Macrae
Date: 01/16/18

22 Hewitt St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Vladimir Selin
Seller: Soja, Tadeusz A., (Estate)
Date: 01/19/18

42 Hill St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Rasha Al-Attar
Seller: John F. Young
Date: 01/26/18

19 Lathrop St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Old Day Realty LLC
Seller: Michael J. Powers
Date: 01/25/18

84 Park St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Old Day Realty LLC
Seller: Michael J. Powers
Date: 01/25/18

96 West Calvin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $194,150
Buyer: Gianna M. Diclementi
Seller: Matthew S. Lanpher
Date: 01/26/18

36 Worthen St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Som Rai
Seller: Duc Truong
Date: 01/26/18

WESTFIELD

138 Apremont Way
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Lawry Realty LLC
Seller: Timothy M. O’Connor
Date: 01/16/18

212 Barbara St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Dek Darjee
Seller: Paul H. Domaingue
Date: 01/18/18

75 Beveridge Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $199,500
Buyer: Aleksandr Yanyuk
Seller: Denise J. Begley
Date: 01/24/18

19 Carroll Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: C. Dudley Shaw
Date: 01/18/18

Falcon Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Koziar Capital LLC
Seller: DBLS Realty LLC
Date: 01/26/18

34 Fowler St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Jacob O. Doser
Seller: Jeanette Griffin
Date: 01/19/18

739 Holyoke Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Bruce D. McClellan
Seller: Jesse J. Caisse
Date: 01/19/18

130 Lindbergh Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $115,989
Buyer: Home Point Financial Corp.
Seller: Carole J. McGregor
Date: 01/26/18

31 Mather St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Paul J. McCormick
Seller: Joseph C. Dunlap
Date: 01/22/18

268 Sackett Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $261,000
Buyer: Jeffery J. Bednaz
Seller: Renee L. Hooben
Date: 01/19/18

44 Spruce St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $188,950
Buyer: Amanda E. Lajzer
Seller: Michael W. Egan
Date: 01/26/18

125 Union St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Ronald Schortmann
Seller: Joyce M. Paroline
Date: 01/19/18

11 Walker Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jeffrey P. Gavioli
Seller: Furkey, Shirley M., (Estate)
Date: 01/24/18

141 Western Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Brian P. Mcewan
Seller: Kane, Dona M., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/18

WILBRAHAM

3123 Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Jamie Kohn
Seller: Charles H. Dustin
Date: 01/26/18

9 Ely Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Nichole Gomes
Seller: Della Ripa Real Estate
Date: 01/16/18

6 Hawthorne Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Andrew Mcalary
Seller: Wilmington Savings
Date: 01/25/18

62 Manchonis Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Adam W. Howe
Seller: Nicole C. Rucki
Date: 01/16/18

416 Soule Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Patrick S. O’Brien
Seller: Elizabeth A. Murphy
Date: 01/18/18

89-91 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Bank Invest LLC
Seller: Richard A. Riga
Date: 01/22/18

400 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Patrick H. Yarrows
Seller: Lillian F. Corriveau IRT
Date: 01/24/18

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

660 Bay Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $178,200
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Kathryn A. Wilkens
Date: 01/16/18

110 Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Dinsmore-Spence TR
Seller: Amherst Real Estate Services
Date: 01/26/18

3 Matoon St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $253,200
Buyer: Kay Gregory
Seller: Christine M. Donatone
Date: 01/17/18

3 Nathaniel Way
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Maxwell Scoon
Seller: Reed FT
Date: 01/25/18

501 South Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $415,400
Buyer: Aaron J. Guimond
Seller: Lafleur & Son Inc.
Date: 01/25/18

15 Sunset Court
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Lincoln Avenue Partners
Seller: Frances P. Fulcher
Date: 01/16/18

57 Valley View Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Alec Theilman
Seller: Sullivan, Agnes G., (Estate)
Date: 01/19/18

605 Warren Wright Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Anthony Maietta
Seller: Stephen A. Rondeau
Date: 01/26/18

8 Westwood Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Tenzin Yangzom
Seller: John J. McCarthy
Date: 01/26/18

CUMMINGTON

21 Bush Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $238,500
Buyer: Alan J. Gagnon
Seller: Mary E. Niles-Howard
Date: 01/26/18

EASTHAMPTON

1 Doody Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Anthony M. Crimmins
Seller: Hing E. Seng
Date: 01/24/18

6 Dragon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Samantha L. Lheureux IRT
Seller: Daniel G. Pouliot
Date: 01/17/18

11 Dragon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Purple Heart NT
Seller: Jon C. Taber
Date: 01/18/18

68-78 Everett St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $574,000
Buyer: Laughing Brothers Properties
Seller: Kazimierz J. Kasa
Date: 01/19/18

8 Kania St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $248,000
Buyer: Michael P. Witzing
Seller: David N. Houle
Date: 01/26/18

29 Morin Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $128,200
Buyer: Patrick E. O’Neil
Seller: Bank New York Mellon
Date: 01/19/18

Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $925,000
Buyer: Cumberland Farms Inc.
Seller: A-Z Storage & Properties
Date: 01/24/18

GOSHEN

68 Main St.
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $216,500
Buyer: Randall G. Baker
Seller: Timothy M. Mott
Date: 01/19/18

GRANBY

89 Aldrich St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Chad Rodrigue
Seller: Coakley Corp.
Date: 01/26/18

28 High St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Nathaniel L. Spear
Seller: Leroy H. Fredette
Date: 01/18/18

2 Hilltop Acres
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Robert M. Os
Seller: Stephen G. Goulet
Date: 01/23/18

148 West St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $116,993
Buyer: Deoclecio Artur
Seller: Deutsche Bank
Date: 01/23/18

HADLEY

7 French St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: James G. Dubois-Sector
Seller: Rosenlund, Debra A., (Estate)
Date: 01/26/18

8 French St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: James G. Dubois-Sector
Seller: Rosenlund, Debra A., (Estate)
Date: 01/26/18

HATFIELD

10 North St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Marc P. Brugnoni
Seller: Cahill FT
Date: 01/16/18

NORTHAMPTON

319 Bridge St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Pioneer Property Services
Seller: Joseph E. Kielec
Date: 01/16/18

67 Chestnut Ave.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Dale M. West
Seller: Beaver Brook NT
Date: 01/26/18

27 Clark St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $143,035
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Ronald A. Lieberwirth
Date: 01/16/18

55 Damon Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,535,000
Buyer: American Dream Realty LLC
Seller: Robert S. Thomas
Date: 01/18/18

233 Emerson Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Claudia Beldengreen
Seller: Emerson Way LLC
Date: 01/26/18

41 Florence Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Jaime L. Ginsberg
Seller: Douglas M. Kimball
Date: 01/16/18

SOUTH HADLEY

3 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $271,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Taugher
Seller: Robert P. Silvain
Date: 01/22/18

52 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: William A. Bradley
Seller: John E. Piskor
Date: 01/26/18

114 College St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Andrew L. Klepacki
Seller: David M. Conti
Date: 01/26/18

3 Greenwood Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: William F. Kent
Seller: Catherine Rigali
Date: 01/18/18

7 Pleasant St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Shah MA Realty LLC
Seller: Diane M. Bernashe-Lecca
Date: 01/17/18

11 Silver St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $199,900
Buyer: Joseph A. Stefanelli
Seller: Deborah S. Kearney
Date: 01/22/18

2 Silverwood Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: John E. Geoffroy
Seller: Lynn Ann McLaughlin RET
Date: 01/26/18

25 Sunset Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Maryann T. Sadowski
Seller: Carol A. Demerski
Date: 01/26/18

SOUTHAMPTON

132 Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $379,900
Buyer: Evan R. Huff
Seller: Maureen Armstrong
Date: 01/26/18

10 Jonathan Judd Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $346,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Galica
Seller: Vijay V. Dalal
Date: 01/17/18

77 Moose Brook Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $409,000
Buyer: David N. Houle
Seller: David Garstka Builders
Date: 01/26/18

WARE

136 Eagle St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $143,000
Buyer: Scott McCaughey
Seller: Lynn G. Mackinson
Date: 01/22/18

347 Monson Turnpike Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Delia J. Butler
Seller: Victor J. Jacek
Date: 01/17/18

19 Smith Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Ashlee Burns
Seller: Barbara R. Topor
Date: 01/22/18

WILLIAMSBURG
53 Hyde Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Gary D. Emerson
Seller: Kathaleen Emerson
Date: 01/17/18

35 Village Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Geoffrey S. Lebaron
Seller: Steven E. Thayer
Date: 01/18/18

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

McCarthy, Tracy Ann
77 Marguerite St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/18

Mercure, Tina Marie
25 Elizabeth St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/09/18

Mitchell, Mark H.
Mitchell, Melanie J.
1173 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/17

Murray, Thomas J.
325 North Lane
Granville, MA 01034
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/30/17

Piela, Karl M.
74 Shepherd St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/18

Santana, Severo
378 El Paso St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/08/18

Schoolcraft, Charles M.
1241 Elm St. Apt. 4C
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/18

Squires, Peter M.
33 Draper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/02/18

Terrero De Perez, Mirta S.
92 Corona St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/11/18

Vargas, Carmen J.
38 Montcalm St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/03/18

Walker, Amy B.
3 Pine St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/10/18

Wentworth, Stephanie
103 Hardwick Pond Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/02/18

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following business certificates and trade names were issued or renewed during the months of January and February 2018.

AMHERST

Capital Market Team
71 Country Corners Road
James Linfield

BELCHERTOWN

DuPuis Farm
734 George Hannum St.
Robert DuPuis

Everett Avenue Condominiums
21 Everett Ave.
James Moran

J. Fuller Locksmith
81 North St.
John Fuller Jr.

JL Construction
22 Mercier Dr.
Jason LaFleur

LeClerc & Son Forestry & Logging
91 Rockrimmon Road
Roland LeClerc

Ragaey M. Gobrial
209 Federal St.
Ragaey Gobrial

Sue Fay’s Salon
44 Stebbins St.
Suzette Fay

CHICOPEE

Comfy Cozy
57 Amherst St.
Nichole Bullock

Mike’s Clock Shop
81 Stedman St.
Michael Harry

RD Construction
32 Harding St.
Denis Rotar

Signature Hair and Threading
1889 Memorial Dr.
Asha Patel

Used Tire Maxx
519 Front St.
Moshe Ronen

DEERFIELD

Arts and Antiques on 5 & 10
717 Greenfield Road
Brickett Allis, Danielle Marie

Mycoterra Farm
75 Stillwater Road
Julia Coffey

EASTHAMPTON

Cynthia Apple, Hairdresser
121 Main St.
Cynthia Apple

Earth Clan
37 Franklin St.
Sarah Zazzaro-Williams

Parsons Street Press
61 Parsons St.
Erica Flood

Sharp
121 Main St.
Rachael Boido

Wood Crafts by Renée
13 Gula Dr.
Renée Hill

EAST LONGMEADOW

Sonic Urgent Care
406 North Main St., #170
Osazee Osagie

HADLEY

Foreign Auto Haus
12 Russell St.
Jeremy Ober

Hampshire Crossfit
220 Russell St.
Robert Migliaccio

Horton Tank Graphics
47 East St.
Arthur Lawson

Megan’s Valley Garden
8 Mill Valley Road
Brenda Fydenkevez

Mullins Center
200 Commonwealth Ave.
Global Spectrum FBD

Restore Physical Therapy
220 Russell St.
Patricia Young

Seymour Interior Decorating
9 Maplewood Terrace
Jennifer Seymour

Taco Bell
248 Russell St.
GF Enterprise, LLC

This and That Design
261 River Dr.
Pamela Hague

Time Out
341 Russell St.
Namco USA Inc.

HOLYOKE

Davans
245 Main St.
David Rodriguez

Glaze N Glory
532 Main St.
Shawna Rohan

Taylor Rental
14 Shawmut Ave.
Richard Clark Jr.

LONGMEADOW

Brais Builders, LLC
93 Westmoreland Ave.
Matthew Brais

LUDLOW

Butler Carpet Cleaners
23 Cady St.
Stephen McQueen

Garden Designs by Jacqueline
451 Miller St.
Jacqueline Clark

Pioneer Valley PDR
7 Circuit Ave.
Stephen Nodurf

NORTHAMPTON

Athol Media Co.
115 Conz St.
Michael Rifanburg

The Center for All Men and Sexual Health
40 Main St., #103
Jassy Casella-Timberlake

Daily Hampshire Gazette
115 Conz St.
Michael Rifanburg

Groundings
7 Main St.
Lauren Pacosa

Happy Valley
177 Main St.
Nancy Cowen

Kathleen Doe Creative Design
39 Garfield Ave.
Kathleen Doe

Measured Marketing Lab
152 Crescent St., Box 144
Christopher Chaput

Shop Therapy
189 Main St.
Ronny Hazel

Tim’s Used Books Inc.
90 King St.
Timothy Barry

PALMER

Cumberland Farms
1468 North Main St.
Cumberland Farms Inc.

Day & Night
1456 North Main St.
Karl Williams

Fancy Nails
1035 Thorndike St.
Diem Ndoc Nguyen

Jeffrey Ferreira Construction
2 Norbell St.
Jeffrey Ferreira

SOUTHWICK

ABC Masonry & Waterproofing
32 North Longyard Road
David Turner

Tasos Family Trust
5 Hummel Lane
Anastasios Karathanasopoulos

Valley Brook Restoration Group
299 College Highway
Douglas Seymour

SPRINGFIELD

Bakana Express Courier
5 Harbour Road
Joe Amoakah

Baked
196 Jasper St.
Yahaira Morales

Blazzin Pix
104 Lyons St.
David Torres

C.J. Pohner Home Improvement
215 Edendale St.
Christopher Pohner

David and Sons Transport
69 Clayton St.
David Hemmings

Dino’s Auto Repair
136 Nursery St.
Misael Colon

E & M Construction Service
19 Eddy St.
Egidio Morales

Eastfield Vapes
1655 Boston Road
Maxx Vapors Inc.

Ellectivity
80 Carver St.
Terrell Anthony

Focus
191 Chestnut St.
Fort Orange Claim

Focus Adjusters
191 Chestnut St.
Fort Orange Claim

Fort Orange Claims Unlimited
191 Chestnut St.
Fort Orange Claim

Frankie Painting
74 Mill St.
Frankie Santiago

Glamour Hair & Nail Salon
23 Hamburg St.
Francisco Rivera

Gonzalez Discount
2924 Main St.
Pedro Gonzalez

Medina Express
83 Clantoy St.
Victor Medina

MGM Springfield
1 MGM Way
Blue Tarp

Micro Scalp Clinic
143 Main St., Suite 104
Lord Smith

Pinguinos Construction
221 Hancock St.
Sadi Gonzalez

Price Cutter Inc.
2633 Main St.
Syed Shabib Ahsan

RLF & Assoc.
127 Carnavon Circle
Rickford Fraser

Skyline Maids
1188 Parker St.
Julio Cordero

VIP Spa
1704 Boston Road
Tommy Nguyen

Valley Blue Sox
100 Congress St.
Alfred Ciaglo

WESTFIELD

Advanced Quality Exteriors
18 Shepard St.
Vladimir Krylov

Beauregard Remodeling
286 Notre Dame St.
Beauregard Remodeling

CBD413
13 Dubois St.
Andrew Carmel

County Barber Shop
6163 School St.
David Munoz

Elite Tanning by Jennifer Amy
16 Union Ave., Suite 101
Elite Tanning by Jennifer Amy

Florek Family Farm
840 Granville Road
Christopher Florek

Hickory Hill Farm
325 Montgomery Road
Dennis Bishop

Krew
14 Turnpike Industrial Road
Robert Kraus

Linda Z. Gallo
45 Meadow St.
Linda Zomek-Gallo

Richards Fine Jewelers
461 East Main St.
M. Anthony Diamonds, LLC

Shea’s Barbers
243 Elm St.
J. Shea Enterprises

Van Sickle Custom Carpentry
22 Highland Ave.
Van Sickle Custom Carpentry

WEST SPRINGFIELD

AG Remodeling
45 Althea St.
Aleksander Glib

ATC Group Services, LLC
73 William Franks Dr.
Tanya Smith

ATF Cleaning Services
97 Ashley Ave.
Abraao Teixeira

DMP Supply Co. Inc.
759 Memorial Ave.
Donald Del Buono

Double J Western
1472 Riverdale St.
Brenda Hodge

Evergreen Events
67 York St.
Kristina Olberg

Liz’s Hair Care
242 Westfield St.
Elizabeth Porter

Mercy Companions
2112 Riverdale St.
Trinity Home Health

Mercy LIFE
2112 Riverdale St.
Trinity Health PACE

Mike’s Transportation
35 Kings Terrace
Michael Gagnon

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.

AMHERST

Oasisworks Inc., 239 Stanley St., Amherst, MA 01002. Tim Mortsolf, same. Visualization and automation techniques relating to Internet connected hardware.

BECKET

NVS Transportation Inc., 21 Stoney Brook Road, Becket, MA 01223. Natalia Ciloci, same. Transportation.

BRIMFIELD

Maw Electrical Inc., 45 Lyman Barnes Road, Brimfield, MA 01010. Mark Wedderburn, same. Electrical design, installation and automation.

CHICOPEE

Nova VC Construction & Cleaning Inc., 41 Sullivan St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Almir Dias, same. Carpentry and janitorial.

Nybles Bytes & Bits Inc., 48 Ceneter St., Chicopee, MA 01013. James Anthony Carter, same. Computer maintenance and repair service.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Michael R. Bertelli Electrician Inc., 238 East St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Michael R. Bertelli, same. Electrical contractor.

SPRINGFIELD

Ministerio Nada Es Imposible Para Dios Inc., 303 Maple St., Apt 119, Springfield, MA 01105. Luis Antonio Torres, same. The purpose of this ministry is to serve the community in the spiritual areas. Preaching the word of God. At the churches and streets, giving counseling, praying for the lives.

Nuts Auto Corp., 38 Merrimac Ave., Springfield, MA 01104. Ksenia Orehova, same. Transportation.

O & M Distributions Corp, 23 Campechi St., Springfield, MA 01108. Marcos A. Gomez, same. Ethnic food wholesaler.

Om Belmont Shell Corp., 940 Belmont Ave., Springfield, MA 01108. Falguni Patel, same. Gas station.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

Employer Confidence Begins 2018 with Increase

BOSTON — Massachusetts employers began 2018 much the way they ended 2017 — with growing confidence in the economy and optimism about their own business prospects. The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index rose a half-point to 64.1 during January, setting another 17-year high. The Index has gained 2.7 points during the past 12 months as employer confidence levels have remained comfortably within the optimistic range. Growing enthusiasm about the Massachusetts economy and a brightening outlook on economic conditions six months from now fueled the January confidence increase. At the same time, the hiring outlook remained muted as low unemployment and demographic shifts continued to impede the ability of employers to find the workers they need. The survey was taken prior to major declines in global financial markets during the past several days. “Rising confidence is not surprising in a state with 3.5% unemployment and an economy that grew at a 3.3% annual rate during the fourth quarter,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design. “Economic output, job growth, and spending all rose at a healthy clip in Massachusetts during the final three months of the year, and economists expect modest growth to continue during the first half of 2018.” 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. It has remained above 50 since October 2013. The constituent indicators that make up the overall Business Confidence Index were mixed during January. The most significant gain came in the Massachusetts Index assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth, which rose 1.3 points to 68.9. The Massachusetts Index has gained 3.7 points in the past two months, 5.5 points year over year, and now stands at its highest level since November 2000. The U.S. Index of national business conditions also continued a yearlong rally by gaining 0.6 points to 64.8. January marked the 95th consecutive month in which employers have been more optimistic about the Massachusetts economy than the national economy. The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, decreased a point to 61.7, while the Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, surged 2.1 points to 66.6. The Current Index has risen 2.1 points and the Future Index 3.3 points during the past 12 months. The Company Index, reflecting employer views of their own operations and prospects, rose slightly, gaining 0.2 points to 62.3. The Employment Index was essentially flat, leaving it 2.1 points below its level of January 2017. Non-manufacturing companies (66.6) were more optimistic than manufacturers (62.3). Large employers (67.2) were more bullish than medium-sized companies (62.7) or small businesses (63.5). “The strong Future Index readings signal that employers anticipate steady growth during the first two quarters of 2018. The only fly in ointment remains the prospect that labor shortages may constrict the ability of companies to grow and expand,” said Paul Bolger, president, Massachusetts Capital Resource Co., and a BEA member. AIM President and CEO Richard Lord, also BEA member, said 2018 brings with it significant risk for employers as progressive groups push ballot questions that could create a $1 billion paid family and medical leave program, impose a punitive tax on many small businesses, and raise the state minimum wage to $15 per hour. “The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court will today hear arguments in a challenge that I and four other business leaders filed to the constitutionality of the income surtax question,” Lord noted. “Meanwhile, the business community is seeking common ground on a compromise paid-leave proposal that will not harm the economy.”

Home Sales in Pioneer Valley Post Gains in 2017

SPRINGFIELD — Single-family home sales posted gains in both volume and price last year, according to the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley, with total sales up 1.7% from 2016 to 2017, and median price up 4.5%. In Franklin County, sales were up 3.0% in 2017, and median price up 2.3%. In Hampden County, sales rose 3.6%, and median price saw a 5.5% gain. However, in Hampshire County, sales were down 3.4%, though median price rose 4.1%.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook Departments

Bay Path MS Program in Nonprofit Management Named to Top-10 List

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University’s master of science (MS) program in Nonprofit Management and Philanthropy has been named to the top 10 in the nation, as ranked by thebestschools.org. The university’s program has been recognized among the top online graduate nonprofit-management programs annually since 2014. This year, Bay Path ranked 10th on the list as one of just two New England colleges to make the cut. According to thebestschools.org, graduate-degree programs in nonprofit management were selected for the ranking based on academic excellence, types of courses offered, faculty strength, rankings, awards, and reputation, including the college’s reputation for effectively providing online degree programs. The MS in Nonprofit Management and Philanthropy at Bay Path University, open to men and women, is offered completely online or on campus, either full-time or part-time.

VVM Appoints Six Executives in Residence

SPRINGFIELD — Valley Venture Mentors (VVM) announced the addition of six new executives in residence (EIRs) who will serve as guest educators and leaders to the 36 startup companies in the 2018 VVM Startup Accelerator program. The program provides intensive training, a network of skilled mentors, and funding that enables startup founders to establish and grow their businesses at a fast pace. EIRs represent experienced industry leaders, creatives, and strategists, as well as social-impact entrepreneurs from around the country. This first-ever group of EIRs will join the VVM staff team in providing day-to-day instruction over the course of four intensive, boot-camp-style weekends from February through May. The program culminates in the 2018 VVM Accelerator Awards at the MassMutual Center on Thursday, May 24. The EIRs include Bethany Martin, principal of B Martin Studio, mentor at Pilotworks, and faculty member at the Pratt Institute; Gustavo Bottan, co-founder and CEO of Opt4America senior mentor at MIT – Sandbox and the MIT CCLP Leadership Program; Joe Bush, executive director for the Worcester CleanTech Incubator; Steven Bellofatto, co-founder of ION Design and former adjunct faculty member at New York University in Manhattan, Department of Design & Digital Arts; Tanya Menendez, co-founder of Maker’s Row, and named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list, People en Espanol’s “Most Powerful Latinas,” Business Insider’s “Coolest People in Tech,” and PopMechanic’s “25 Makers Who Are Reinventing the American Dream”; and Zaza Kabayadondo, director at Smith College for the Design Thinking Initiative and former program advisor at Stanford University’s Learning, Design, and Technology masters’ program.

STCC Biotech Program Wins Gold Level Endorsement

SPRINGFIELD — Graduates of the biotechnology programs at Springfield Technical Community College are well-prepared for careers in the life sciences, according to a leading science-education organization. The Massachusetts Biotechnology Education Foundation (MassBioEd) endorsed STCC’s biotechnology associate degree and certificate programs at the Gold Level. MassBioEd concluded that graduates of the degree and certificate programs “are ready for the life-sciences workforce.” The STCC program met the core competencies defined by biotechnology industry and academic leaders who worked with MassBioEd, a nonprofit organization with a mission to build a life-sciences workforce in the region through educational programs that inspire students and engage teachers. Core competencies required for endorsement include following good laboratory practices, lab techniques, and exhibiting appropriate workplace behaviors, among other requirements.

Berkshire Hills Reports Q4 Operating Results

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Hills Bancorp Inc. reported that fourth-quarter pre-tax income grew by 82% to $19.5 million in 2017 compared to $10.7 million in the prior year. This improvement was due to business development and the benefit of mergers, including Worcester-based Commerce Bancshares Corp. which was acquired on Oct. 13, 2017. Net income after tax was impacted by an $18 million non-core charge to income-tax expense resulting from federal tax reform enacted near year end. This reform is expected to benefit future earnings due to a lower statutory federal tax rate beginning in 2018. Net income after tax totaled $55 million in 2017 compared to $59 million in 2016. The tax charge noted above reduced fourth-quarter earnings per share by $0.40 and resulted in a fourth-quarter net loss of $0.06 per share in 2017, compared to a profit of $0.32 per share in 2016. Fourth-quarter core earnings per share improved by 4% to $0.58 in 2017, from $0.56 in 2016. The measure of core earnings excludes the above tax charge and also excludes other net non-core charges primarily related to merger costs. These costs in the fourth quarter of 2017 were mostly related to the Commerce acquisition, which increased assets by $1.8 billion, or 19%, to $11.6 billion at year end.

O & P Labs Opens New Prosthetic Center

SPRINGFIELD — O & P Labs announced the grand opening of its Prosthetic Center at 3500 Main St. in Springfield. The local prosthetic company has been serving Western and Central Mass., Northern Conn., and Southern Vermont for more than 30 years. O & P Labs is best known for its local, state-or-the-art fabrication lab, which allows patients to receive fittings, repairs, and adjustments quickly. The 3D printer decreases production time, and digital scanning technology creates highly customized prosthetic sockets.

Main Street Hospitality Sells Elm Street Market

STOCKBRIDGE — Sarah Eustis, CEO of Main Street Hospitality, announced the sale of Elm Street Market to Verson Inc., headed by brothers Rajesh and Rajeev Verma from New Jersey. New management took over operation of the market immediately when the sale was completed last month. The Elm Street Market, previously owned and operated by Main Street Hospitality, has been a local favorite and community staple for more than 20 years. “We stopped at Elm Street Market on our way to visit my son at college and immediately fell in love with the restaurant and Stockbridge,” said Rajesh Verma. “The market is a strong community anchor, and we intend to keep it that way, building on its existing strength and evolving its local food offerings over time.” Verson Inc. is a family-owned business that owns and operates a group of deli and catering shops in New York City. Verma plans to keep the current staff while adding more prepared foods to the menu.

Community Foundation Joins Partnership to Boost Arts, Creativity

SPRINGFIELD — The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts (CFWM) and the Barr Foundation, a private foundation based in Boston, announced the launch of Creative Commonwealth, a partnership between Barr, CFWM, and four other Massachusetts community foundations. This new initiative is rooted in the belief that investments in arts and creativity build thriving communities, and it aims to promote the vital leadership role community foundations can play to advance the arts. Creative Commonwealth will pave the way for community foundations to deepen and grow support for artists and cultural organizations. Along with CFWM, the community foundations partnering with Barr on this effort are the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, the Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts, the Essex County Community Foundation, and the Greater Worcester Community Foundation. The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts has been awarded $500,000 over 24 months to pilot ideas that emerged from a planning process the foundation undertook in 2017, with funding from Barr to identify opportunities, needs, and priorities. CFWM efforts will focus on testing innovative ideas to connect arts to other sectors, providing training to build the capacity of small organizations and assessing the need for a regional arts hub to advance collaborative opportunities.

River Valley Counseling Opens Easthampton Office

EASTHAMPTON — River Valley Counseling Center opened a new office location in Liberty Commons at 2 Mechanic St, Easthampton. The new office offers behavioral-health services for individuals and families. This new location follows five months after River Valley Counseling Center began offering school-based services within all of the Easthampton Schools. School-based therapy is outpatient therapy; however, these services are coordinated with the school to provide easy access to appointments for students and families and to assist with school-related problems as needed. Services available at the Easthampton location include individual, couples, family, and group psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children. Clinicians help the client, couple, or family identify the concerns or issues that will become the focus of treatment. Both the client and clinician work together to determine the most effective treatment needed. The frequency and duration of counseling sessions is determined based on individualized treatment plans. For additional information or to schedule an appointment with River Valley Counseling Center, call (413) 540-1234.

Monson Savings Announces Public’s Choices for Giving

MONSON — For the eighth year in a row, Monson Savings Bank asked the community to help plan the bank’s community giving activities by inviting people to vote for the organizations they would like the bank to support during 2018. The top vote getter was Boy Scouts of Western Massachusetts, followed, in order of votes, by Wilbraham United Players, Shriners Hospitals for Children, Scantic Valley YMCA, River East School-to-Career, Link to Libraries, Rick’s Place, Academy Hill School, Behavioral Health Network at Valley Human Resources, and Monson Free Library.

People on the Move

By
Departments People on the Move
Eric Polep

Eric Polep

J. Polep Distribution Services announced the promotion of Eric Polep to president and CEO, reporting to Chairman of the Board Jeffrey Polep. “Eric has proven time and again he understands how to grow with the industry and as the business dictates. He represents J. Polep with pride, and his everyday goal is to make sure each customer and vendor sees the outcome of long-term success, which is the foundation to our business,” said Jeffrey Polep, also Eric’s father. J. Polep Distribution Service is the fifth-largest convenience wholesaler in the U.S., exceeding $1.5 billion in sales. The locally owned and operated business posted a 30.1% increase in overall sales, rising from ninth place to fifth place in the 2017 CSNEWS Top Wholesalers report. Eric will continue to work closely with Jeffrey and all of the company’s support staff to ensure effective execution of strategies and operational services. “I am very excited for this opportunity that lies ahead of me and look forward to the continuing growth of the business,” Eric said. “Upon graduating college, I knew I wanted to go right into the family business and absorb everything I could from my father. Working beside him has always been a dream of mine, and it’s an honor to be named president of J. Polep Distribution Services by him and our board.”

•••••

Christopher Scott

Christopher Scott

Michael Pike

Michael Pike

PeoplesBank announced appointments of two key associates. Christopher Scott was appointed assistant vice president, portfolio manager, while Michael Pike was appointed Hadley branch manager. Scott has more than six years of banking experience. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in corporate finance, from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. He is also a graduate of the Springfield Leadership Institute. Pike has more than 12 years of banking and financial-services experience. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Notre Dame College.

•••••

Dr. Neil Kudler, former chief medical information officer for Baystate Health, has joined Holyoke-based healthcare consultancy VertitechIT as chief medical officer. “IT consultants focused primarily on bits and bytes are doing their clients a disservice,” said Kudler, who has held other senior executive and strategist positions at Baystate Health, one of New England’s largest healthcare systems. “As CMO of VertitechIT, I’m in a position to bridge that all-important technology gap between clinicians and the IT departments that must support them.” VertitechIT is among the fastest-growing healthcare IT consultancies in the country, focused on helping senior IT leaders to strategically and tactically transform the role of IT in the hospital setting. “Any consultant worth their fee can design and implement a new cloud strategy or infrastructure platform,” said VertitechIT CEO Michael Feld. “Dr. Kudler gives us immense credibility on the clinical side of the house, providing guidance on things like diversified health-system operations, population health, and data analytics.” Before joining VertitechIT, Kudler served as senior healthcare innovation strategist for TechSpring Technology Innovation Center, and as chief operating officer for Baycare Health Partners. He is a graduate of Colgate University and received his master’s degree from Harvard Divinity School. He received his doctor of medicine degree from New York University and trained in internal medicine at UC San Francisco.

•••••

Jonathan Howell

Jonathan Howell

Springfield College named Jonathan Howell as its new director of Human Resources, effective March 5. He brings more than 18 years of experience in human resources, with the last 15 years working in higher education. As the college’s lead human-resources officer, Howell will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction surrounding all human-resources initiatives and priorities for Springfield College. Howell comes to Springfield College from Mitchell College in New London, Conn., where he served as vice president for Human Resources starting in 2015. Prior to his most recent position, Howell also served as director of Human Resources at Mitchell College from 2012 to 2015. Prior to his time there, Howell was employed for eight years at the University of Illinois in multiple human-resources positions. Howell received his bachelor’s degree in business management from Augustana College and will complete a master’s program in human resources from Ft. Hays State University this spring.

•••••

Carol Anne McGowan

Carol Anne McGowan

The UMass Donahue Institute, an outreach and economic-development arm of the UMass President’s Office, promoted Carol Anne McGowan to associate director. In this position, McGowan works closely with the executive director to develop and implement management strategies, systems, and practices across the Donahue Institute. She is also directly responsible for overseeing all fiscal and human-resource functions. Previously, she served as the institute’s director of Administration and Finance. She first joined the institute in 2000 as a member of the Financial Management, Education and Training (FMET) team. She spent more than 10 years with FMET, developing curriculum and instructing in the areas of government finance and accounting for the U.S. Department of Defense. In addition to her role as associate director, McGowan has developed a credited course on post-award management of grants and contracts, which she will teach through UMass Amherst’s Isenberg School of Management. Earlier in her career, she served as director of Onslow Community Health Improvement Process, a community nonprofit organization in Onslow County, N.C. She has a master’s degree in human resources and organizational development from Webster University and an MBA from the UMass Isenberg School of Management.

•••••

Miriam Siegel

Miriam Siegel

Country Bank announced that Miriam Siegel has joined its team as senior vice president of Human Resources. A graduate of the State University of New York at Albany with a bachelor’s degree in business, Siegel boasts 26 years in the financial-services industry. She is also a certified compensation professional and certified benefits professional from WorldatWork. For 21 years, Siegel worked at United Bank. She began her career as a payroll clerk and worked her way through the ranks until she found her passion within the human-resources department. Her time at United Bank made a significant impact on her approach to human resources. “I live and work by the philosophy that your most valuable assets are your people,” she said. “I am very excited to be back at a local community bank where employees and customers come first.” Siegel owned and operated the Village Store Café in Wilbraham with her husband. During that time, they began a run/walk event, the Cup to Pint Fun Run, to support local charities. The Children’s Museum in Wilbraham, the Livestrong Program at the Scantic Valley YMCA, and the Wilbraham Hampden Academic Trust, have all received donations from this annual fund-raiser. Siegel is a member of the Massachusetts Bankers Assoc., WorldatWork, and the New England Human Resources Assoc., and serves on the board of directors for Behavioral Health Network in Springfield. “Miriam’s extensive expertise in human resources within the financial-services industry makes her a perfect fit for Country Bank,” said Paul Scully, the bank’s CEO and president. “We are thrilled to have her join our team; we know that Miriam will be an esteemed resource for Country Bank and its employees.”

•••••

Bulkley Richardson announced that Seunghee Cha and Jodi Miller have been promoted to partner, and Mary Bonzagni has joined the firm as partner as well. In her comprehensive estate-planning practice, Cha assists individuals and families from all walks of life, with a particular focus on special-needs planning for individuals living with intellectual, developmental, and age-related disabilities; conservatorship and alternatives; estate settlement; and trust administration. Miller focuses her practice on commercial and other civil litigation, including class actions, as well as regulatory matters. She has a particular expertise in the area of health law and also represents public and privately held corporations, financial institutions, schools and universities, nonprofits, and individuals in a range of litigation matters. Bonzagni has an established reputation in the field of intellectual property. Her work involves prosecuting, defending, and licensing patents for a wide variety of inventions, as well as challenging the patentability of both pre-grant and post-grant patents in a number of countries and regions. In-depth experience as a chemist has equipped her with a unique perspective and allows her to provide clients with both legal and scientific strategies. She also advises businesses on strategic aspects of trademark, copyright, and trade-secret protection.

•••••

Charlie Epstein

Charlie Epstein

Charlie Epstein, an investment adviser and author who specializes in retirement consulting, has been appointed to the Holyoke Community College board of trustees by Gov. Charlie Baker. He was sworn in Feb. 2, and is expected to join the board for its next meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 27. Epstein is principal of the Holyoke-based Epstein Financial Group LLC and Epstein Financial Services, a registered, investment advisory firm providing corporate retirement-plan consulting as well as wealth-management and financial-planning services for business owners, professionals, and individual plan participants. He is also owner of the 401K Coach Program, which offers financial-adviser education services and training; the author of two books: Paychecks for Life: How to Turn Your 401(k) into a Paycheck Manufacturing Company and Save America, Save! The Secrets of a Successful 401(k) Plan; and an industry conference speaker and commentator who has appeared on the Fox Business Network. In 1994, he founded the Family Business Center of the Pioneer Valley in Amherst and remains on its board of directors. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Colgate University.

•••••

David W. Griffin Sr.

David W. Griffin Sr.

David W. Griffin Sr., executive vice president and treasurer of the Dowd Agencies, LLC, is the 2018 recipient of the Daniel J. Gallivan award from the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. “We are honored that one of our own has received this well-deserved honor,” said John E. Dowd Jr., president and CEO. “David has provided tireless effort for Holyoke, fulfilling various leadership capacities that have benefitted our clients and the citizens of Western Massachusetts alike.” Griffin is an active member of the Holyoke community, serving as president of the West Springfield Chamber of Commerce, West Springfield Rotary, Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade Committee, Springfield Country Club, Hampden County Insurance Agents, and chair of Mont Marie Health Care Center. He remains active with the CYO of Western Massachusetts as well. Griffin has more than 35 years of experience in the insurance industry, beginning his career in 1978 as a surety underwriter for Aetna Casualty. Since then, he has served as a broker specializing in large commercial and contracting accounts. He is a licensed insurance advisor as well as a certified insurance counselor. Since 1972, the Daniel J. Gallivan award, named after the South Hadley resident and longtime member of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, has been awarded to long-standing members of the association who have made significant contributions to the overall success of the parade and committee.

•••••

Meaghan Murphy

Meaghan Murphy

Bacon Wilson announced that Meaghan Murphy has joined the firm as an associate attorney. A member of the firm’s litigation department, her practice is focused on labor and employment law. Murphy is a graduate of Western New England University School of Law, and received her bachelor’s degree from Amherst College. She works primarily from Bacon Wilson’s Springfield location, and is licensed to practice in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. Founded in 1895, Bacon Wilson, P.C. is one of the largest firms in the Pioneer Valley, with 44 lawyers and approximately 60 paralegals, administrative assistants, and support staff. The firm’s offices are located in Springfield, Amherst, Hadley, Northampton, and Westfield.

•••••

Berkshire Bank promoted Lori Gazzillo to senior vice president and director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. She was previously the foundation’s vice president. In her new position, Gazzillo is responsible for the development, planning, and implementation of strategies to support the Berkshire Bank Foundation, improving quality of life, cultivating partnerships, and fostering community relationships across the Bank’s six-state footprint. Gazzillo joined Berkshire Bank in 2011 from Legacy Banks, where she was the Community Relations officer since 2006. “Lori has more than 20 years of communications and community-relations experience and has shown exceptional leadership in improving and developing strong relationships in our existing and new markets. We look forward to continuing to foster these relationships as we grow,” said Linda Johnston, senior executive vice president and chief Human Resources officer. Gazzillo serves on the board of directors of 1Berkshire, the Brien Center, and Associated Grant Makers, is a member of the newly formed Berkshire Leadership Impact Council, and was recently appointed by Gov. Charlie Baker to the Berkshire Community College board of trustees. She has a bachelor’s degree from Keene State College and a master’s degree in education from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. She is also a graduate of the ABA School of Bank Marketing and Management.

•••••

Michelle Theroux of Berkshire Hills Music Academy was installed as president of the South Hadley & Granby Chamber of Commerce on Jan. 23. The election of officers and directors took place at the Willits-Hallowell Center. The other officers elected were Dina Mead, vice president; Jessica Bodon, clerk; and Alexandra Wern-LaFlamme, treasurer. New or returning directors elected that evening were Carol Constant, Mead, Darren Thomas, and Wearn-Laflamme.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By
Chamber Corners Departments

1BERKSHIRE

www.1berkshire.com

(413) 499-1600

• Feb. 27: Entrepreneurial Meetup, 8-10 a.m., hosted by Dottie’s Coffee Lounge, Pittsfield. Join us for networking and share what you’ve been working on in an open-mic format. 1Berkshire’s Entrepreneurial Meetups are free events that gather entrepreneurs together to network, learn, and engage. They provide small-business owners, or people interested in starting a business, opportunities to have casual, organic conversations with peers and resource providers.

• Feb. 28: Good News Business Salute, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Zion Church, Pittsfield. Come celebrate Jacob’s Pillow, IS183, and more. This event recognizes major milestones, including anniversaries, expansions, and new product lines of Berkshire businesses, and gives us a chance to come together to applaud their efforts. Member cost: $35 for individual, $140 for table of four, $280 for table of eight. Non-member cost: $45 for individual, $180 for table of four, $360 for table of eight.

• March 21: Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Lee Bank, 75 North St., Pittsfield. Bring your business card to enter to win our door prize. Register online at www.1berkshire.com.

• March 28: Career Fair, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., hosted by Berkshire Community College, Paterson Field House, 1350 West St., Pittsfield. Get in front of Berkshire-based businesses at this annual event. Connect with employers looking to hire. You may also choose to exhibit, and recruit new employees, grow your business, and get in front of hundreds of job seekers. The event is free and open to the public. If you are interested in exhibiting or attending, visit www.1berkshire.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com

(413) 253-0700

• March 15: Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce and Young Professionals of Amherst After 5 Networking, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Country Nissan, 40 Russell St., Hadley.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org

(413) 594-2101

• March 2: Shining Stars Enchanted Gardens Gala, 6-10 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Sponsored by Westfield Bank, Polish National Credit Union, Planet Fitness, PeoplesBank, the Arbors Kids, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, BusinessWest, Savings Institute Bank & Trust, Hampton Inn, Holyoke Medical Center, Pioneer Packaging Inc., United Personnel, CHH Engraving, Central Oil, Masse’s American Bistro Inc., and ICNE. Cost: $60. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• March 8: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180 Park, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Multi-chamber event sponsored exclusively by CHH Engraving Inc. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• March 21: St. Patrick’s Day Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by the Delaney House, 1 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Chief greeter: John Beaulieu, city of Chicopee and St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. Keynote speaker: Sean Cahillane, Irish Cultural Center. Sarah the Fiddler will perform. Sponsored by United Personnel, Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, Gaudreau Group, Sunshine Village, Spherion Staffing Services, and PeoplesBank. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org

(413) 527-9414

• Feb. 27: Strengths-based Leadership, 7:45-10 a.m., hosted by Innovative Business Systems, Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. In the first of a two-part series, Colleen DelVecchio, a certified CliftonStrengths coach, will lead us into our strongest selves as leaders via our personnel Gallup StrengthFinder assessment and insight reports. At the end of the two breakfast sessions, you will understand the keys to be a more effective leader, unveil your strengths, learn to invest in the strengths of others, get people with the right strengths on your team, and understand and meet the four basic needs of those who look to you for leadership: trust, compassion, stability, and hope. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• March 8: Multi-Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180 Park, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Interland Real Estate, LLC. In addition to the Easthampton Chamber, the chambers of Northampton, Springfield, Holyoke, Westfield, Chicopee, and West of the River are all involved. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• March 16: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon, noon, hosted by Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds. The main speaker will be Easthampton City Councilor Dan Carey. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• March 27: “Strength-based Leadership” featuring Colleen DelVecchio, certified Clifton Strengths Coach. The second of a two-part series (see Feb. 27 listing above). For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.com

(413) 534-3376

• Feb. 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Holyoke Community College MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Community College. Join us for a casual networking experience at HCC’s recently opened culinary facility. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Feb. 28: “Ask a Chamber Expert: How to Attract Customers to Your Marketing Table,” 8:30-9:30 a.m., Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Get ready for the upcoming multi-chamber Taste of Business by learning how to successfully attract customers to your table. Presented by Francie Richardson of Art Craft. Cost: free for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Price includes a continental breakfast. Register at holyokechamber.com.

• March 7: The Chamber Coffee Buzz Morning Networking, 7:30-9 a.m., sponsored and hosted by Loomis House, 298 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Jump-start your day with the opportunity to meet business and community leaders while enjoying coffee and a light breakfast. Coffee sponsored by Manage Your Health and Wealth. Free to the business community. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com or call (413) 534-3376.

• March 7: “Women in Leadership: Leadership in Your Future,” 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., hosted by HCC Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. Join us from March through June to learn from area CEOs while networking with peers from the region. An elegant lunch prepared by the Holyoke Community College Culinary Arts program will provide the setting, which will create the opportunity for a meaningful dialogue on some key leadership issues for those building their careers. Each month, your table will join one of the region’s leading CEOs. Future leadership luncheons will take place on April 4, May 2, and June 5. Cost: $125 for all four sessions.

• March 8: Networking by Night Multi Chamber Event, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180 Park, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. An evening of powerhouse networking with several regional chambers, plus food and a cash bar. Chamber partners include Holyoke, Easthampton, Springfield, Westfield, West of the River, Chicopee, and Northampton. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Pre-registration required.

• March 1 4: St. Patrick’s Day Business Breakfast 2018, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank; Holyoke Mall at Ingleside; Resnic, Beauregard, Waite and Driscoll; and the Republican. Coffee bar sponsored by Marcotte Ford and Holyoke Medical Center. Connect with friends over a hearty Irish breakfast. The 2018 St. Patrick’s Parade Committee award winners, the Grand Colleen and her court, local business milestones, and new chamber members will be recognized. Register by March 8 for a discounted price of $35; cost is $40 after that. Marketing tables are available. Door prizes are welcome. The deadline to register is March 12. Visit holyokechamber.com to sign up, or call (413) 534-3376.

• March 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Slainte Restaurant, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Sponsored by Expert Staffing. Meet up with your business associates for networking and food. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com. Call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 if you would like to bring a door prize or if you’re interested in a marketing table for $25.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com

(413) 584-1900

• Feb. 21: February Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Greenfield Savings Bank, 325A King St., Northampton. Sponsored by Webber & Grinnell Insurance Co. Cost: $10 for members.

• March 8: March Arrive @5 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage. The Northampton, Easthampton, Holyoke, Springfield, Westfield, West of the River, and Chicopee chambers are partnering on this networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org

(413) 568-1618

• March 5: March Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Mercy Continuing Care Network at Westfield Adult Day Health, 24 Clifton St., Westfield. Cost: free. Call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• March 14: March After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Spotlight Graphics, 9B Whalley Way, Southwick. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: $10 for the general public (cash or credit paid at the door). Register online at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam Bussell at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• March 16: St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Westfield State University, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. Event sponsor: Westfield State University; bronze sponsor: Republic Services; in-kind flower sponsor: Flowers by Webster. Keynote speaker: Bo Sullivan, executive director of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England. A 50/50 raffle will support the chamber scholarship fund. Cost: $25 for chamber members, $30 for the general public. Register online at www.westfieldbiz.org. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities, or additional information, contact Pam Bussell at the chamber at (413) 568-1618 or [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

www.springfieldregionalchamber.com

(413) 787-1555

• March 7: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Cost: $25 for members ($30 at the door), $35 general admission ($40 at the door).

• March 8: After Hours with Springfield Regional, Greater Easthampton, Westfield and West of the River Chambers, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Cost: $10 for members, $15 general admission.

• March 9: Outlook 2018, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the MassMutual Center, Springfield. Featuring keynote speaker Gov. Charlie Baker and Eric Rosengren, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Cost: $60 for members in advance; $80 general admission in advance.

• March 13: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, details to be announced.

• March 20: C-Suite Conversations & Cocktails, 5-7 p.m., hosted by CityStage, One Columbus Center, Springfield. Members-only event featuring MGM President Mike Mathis. Cost: $25.

• March 29: Speed Networking, 3:30-5 p.m., location to be determined. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 general admission in advance ($35 at the door).

Reservations for all chamber events may be made by visiting www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mailing [email protected], or calling (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com

(413) 426-3880

• March 6: Business Breakfast with MGM, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, West Springfield. Join fellow members and non-members for a business breakfast with MGM. We will provide an update as well as one-on-one sessions with MGM representatives for the bidding process. Sponsorships are available for this event. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• March 15: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Crestview Country Club, Agawam. You must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief introduction and company overview. 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. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

springfieldyps.com

• March 10: Eighth annual YP Cup Dodgeball Tournament, 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., hosted by Springfield College, Dana Gymnasium, 263 Alden St., Springfield. Cost: $35 for individuals, $275 to $1,000 for teams and sponsorships. More information and registration available at springfieldyps.com.

Agenda

By
Agenda Departments

Bar Talk for Isenberg Alumni

Feb. 20: No matter the establishment, bar talk can be engaging and insightful. That’s why Vinnie Daboul of Sage Benefits started hosting Bar Talk events for Isenberg School of Management alumni in Western Mass. These informal events are ideal for cultivating formal connections and alumni networks. The next Bar Talk session will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. at Max’s Tavern in Springfield. Attendees will be able to meet two Isenberg representatives: Jennifer Winkelman, executive director of Constituent Relations, and Thomas Moliterno, associate dean of Faculty & Engagement and overseer for the construction of the new Isenberg Innovation Hub. Appetizers will be served. Each attendee will receive one drink ticket. RSVP by e-mailing [email protected].

Lecture on Chronic Pain

Feb. 22: Holyoke Medical Center (HMC) will host a free discussion, “Living with Chronic Pain,” at 5:30 p.m. in the HMC Auxiliary Conference Center. Chronic pain can impact both one’s personal and professional life. HMC’s new Pain Management Center can help individuals manage that pain and get back to enjoying life. Dr. Joseph Strebel, director of the Pain Management Center, will discuss the comprehensive, multi-disciplinary treatment approach that HMC now offers, and what that can mean for one’s quality of life. This program is free and open to the public, and is part of Holyoke Medical Center’s community education programming, one in a series of workshops held throughout the year to help people learn about specific health issues, wellness, prevention, and treatment. To register for this event, visit www.holyokehealth.com/events or call (413) 534-2789.

Melha Shriners Last Dance

Feb. 24: As the Melha Shriners prepare to move from its current location, the Melha Shrine Center at 133 Longhill St. in Springfield, it will host a last hurrah of sorts: a Last Dance event. Beginning with a social hour at 6 p.m., attendees will enjoy a dinner of pasta and meatballs, salad, and rolls at 7 p.m. The evening will culminate with dancing to tunes presented by D.J. Rene Vadnais until midnight with chances to win 50/50 raffle prizes throughout the evening. The cost to attend the Last Dance is $15 per person. The Melha Shriners have been in their current location since 1959. “We have had such great support from the public and from our Shriners at so many events in our facility for the past 59 years, and we’re looking forward to being able to thank everyone for that support, which we hope will continue as we move into a new era,” said Glenn Suprenant, 2018 potentate of the Melha Shriners. Added Michael White, Shriners public relations chairman, “we want to have this special night for everyone to be able to celebrate our continued commitment to all that we represent as Shriners.” While the Shriners will be moving to a new facility within the next several months, its leadership team has continued to stress that the only change being made is the location of their facility, not their commitment to all that they represent. Those interested in purchasing tickets may do so by contacting the Shrine office at (413) 736-3647 or visiting melhashriners.com. Tickets will be sold at the door based on availability. For further information, contact Al Zippin at (413) 219-8655.

Springfield College Fit Fest

Feb. 26: The annual Springfield College Fit Fest will take place from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Springfield College Field House inside the Wellness and Recreation Complex. Fit Fest is free and open to the public. More than 40 exhibits and activities representing Springfield College groups and area businesses will address wellness topics including mental health, nutrition, sexual and reproductive health, financial literacy, social programs for kids and adults with disabilities, and physical-fitness testing. Attendees will have the opportunity to receive a free chair massage, have their body fat measured, participate in a functional movement screening, and learn about self-defense. Exhibitors in attendance will include the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts, Better Life Whole Foods, Tapestry Health, the Center for Human Development, and more.

MS Excel Skill Training

Feb. 26 to March 1: In conversations with area employers, Tech Foundry has learned that MS Excel is a pressing skill need for current workforce across Western Mass. Hundreds of workers in the Pioneer Valley alone use Excel on a daily basis, and only a small fraction have the training and skill needed to maximize job success and productivity. To meet this need, Tech Foundry is offering a four-day training class on Excel at its offices on the ninth floor of 1391 Main St., Springfield. The class will run each day from 9 a.m. to noon and cover the following skills: advanced formulas; tables and formatting; conditional formatting; advanced charting; pivot tables and pivot reporting; VBA and macros; using Excel productively; data tables, simulations, and Solver; Excel integration; and optimizing Excel. The cost per student is $750. However, employers with fewer than 100 employees are eligible for a 50% tuition reimbursement from Commonwealth Corp. To register, e-mail [email protected], or call Jonathan Edwards with questions at (413) 276-0609, ext. 100.

EMT Training Program

March 5 to June 20: Holyoke Community College, in collaboration with the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp. and Emergency Medical Training Solutions, is offering an EMT training program at the E2E: Quaboag Region Workforce Training and Community College Center at 79 Main St., Ware. The EMT-B Emergency Medical Technician Basic course meets on Mondays and Wednesdays from 6 to 10 p.m. and on select Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The 13-week program consists of more than 170 hours of in-class lectures and additional online study, training, field trips, and workshops designed to prepare students for the state EMT certification exam. The course covers all aspects of emergency care, including patient handling, extrication, communication, working with law enforcement, legal issues, ethics, medical equipment, and safe transportation of patients. The course fee is $1,099 plus $200 for texts. For more information or to register, contact Ken White at (413) 552-2324 or [email protected], or visit www.hcc.edu/workforce.

Pricing and Positioning a Business for Sale

March 16: Attention all business owners: if you plan to retire, or think you might someday want to change gears in your life, you will eventually be faced with the task of selling or transferring ownership of your business.With this in mind, Philip Steckler and Eric Lineback of Country Business Inc. (CBI) will present a workshop titled “Maximize the Value of Your Business: Properly Pricing and Positioning Your Business For Sale” on Friday, March 16 from 9 to 11:30 
a.m. at Holyoke Public Library. CBI, a business-brokerage and merger-and-acquisition firm, has managed the sales of more than 1,200 businesses since 1976. Steckler and Lineback will introduce business owners to topics such as maximizing the value of a business, properly pricing and positioning a business for sale, attracting qualified buyers, minimizing taxes, and maintaining confidentiality. Additional topics covered will include analyzing a business’ strengths and weaknesses, understanding the marketplace, valuing a business and properly setting the purchase price and terms, and more.

Difference Makers

March 22: The 10th annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. The winners were announced and profiled in the Feb. 5 issue. 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. Tickets to the event cost $75 per person, with tables of 10 available. To order, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100 or visit www.businesswest.com. Sponsors to date include Sunshine Village, Royal, P.C., and Health New England. Sponsorship opportunities are still available by calling (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

Caritas Gala

April 21: Plans are underway for Mercy Medical Center’s second annual Caritas Gala at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The gala, with its Motown-inspired theme “Reach Out,” will raise funds to support Mercy Behavioral Health Care and the Mercy Emergency Department’s Opioid Community Outreach for education, intervention, and treatment. Dr. Mohamed and Kimberly Hamdani, along with Paul and Anna Mancinone, are honorary chairpersons for the Caritas Gala. Longtime supporters of Mercy Medical Center, Dr. Hamdani has served as chairman of Surgery, chairman of Credentials, and president of the medical staff at Mercy, and Paul Mancinone serves on the board for Trinity Health Of New England. “Today, we are challenged by the opioid epidemic and its impact on individuals of all ages, races, and economic levels,” Dr. Hamdani said. “Mercy Behavioral Health Care looks beyond the stigma of addiction and provides treatment that supports people in their efforts to recover.” The Caritas Gala will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a cocktail reception, live entertainment from the band Motor City Magic, and a silent auction. Dinner will be served at 8 p.m., following by a live auction and dancing until midnight with music from the band Radiance. Preregistration is required by Friday, March 23. For more information or to purchase tickets to the Caritas Gala, visit www.mercycares.com/caritas-gala.

40 Under Forty Gala

June 21: BusinessWest’s 12th annual 40 Under Forty Gala is a celebration of 40 young business and civic leaders in Western Mass. The lavish cocktail party, to be held starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke, will feature butlered hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and entertainment — and, of course, the presentation of the class of 2018. Also, the fourth Continued Excellence Award honoree will be announced. Presenting sponsors are PeoplesBank and Northwestern Mutual. Additional sponsors include Isenberg School of Management and the MP Group. Tickets will go on sale soon at $75 per person (tables of 10 available). For more information, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

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.

CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT

Brenda Guiel v. Hollister Jewelers, LLC and Archibald D. Moe Jr.

Allegation: Breach of contract, breach of implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing, unjust enrichment, conversion: $24,999

Filed: 1/22/18

HAMPDEN DISTRICT COURT

Mayela M. Pizarro v. Pride Convenience Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $3,566.89

Filed: 1/9/18

Capital Candy Co. Inc. v. Nafees M. Niazi f/d/b/a Shaw’s Mart

Allegation: Money owed for goods sold and delivered: $5,002.63

Filed: 1/9/18

Frank DeLuca d/b/a Porter Royal Sales v. Sterling Architectural Millwork Inc.

Allegation: Breach of contract: $10,000

Filed: 1/11/18

Anthony Kulukulualani v. Best Value Movers, LLC

Allegation: Breach of contract, negligence: $24,000

Filed: 1/12/18

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

Terry M. Chenaille v. Cinemark USA Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $41,834.53

Filed: 1/2/18

Judith A. Welch v. Big Y Foods Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $34,839.70

Filed: 1/2/18

Jane McClure v. St. John’s Lutheran Church, Chairman of Trustees Mark Baldyga, and Church Council President Bill Schneeloch

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $69,712.82

Filed: 1/3/18

Michelle Moser v. DB Properties, LLC

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $20,000

Filed: 1/8/18

Denise Pepe-Walker v. NP Home Improvement Inc.

Allegation: Negligent entrustment; plaintiff’s vehicle struck by vehicle operated by employee of defendant, causing injury: $50,000

Filed: 1/9/18

Cherie Quirici v. Home-Like Apartments Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $114,651.80

Filed: 1/10/18

Glenn Hauer and Rebecca Hauer v. Baystate Medical Center Inc., Baystate Health Inc., and Colebrook Realty Services Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing injury: $2,799,350.11

Filed: 1/16/18

Brian Lindley, individually and on behalf of all others similarly situated v. Max’s Grill, LLC and Richard B. Rosenthal

Allegation: Non-payment of minimum fair wage, non-payment of earned wages: $25,000+

Filed: 1/22/18

HOLYOKE DISTRICT COURT

James St. Pierre v. Quik Foods III, LLC d/b/a Burger King

Allegation: False, misleading, and deceptive business practices; slander, defamation, and libel: $1,200

Filed: 1/12/18

Evan Baez, a minor, by and through his mother and next friend, Amanda Bermudez v. SCB, LLC

Allegation: Fall causing injury when stair broke on back steps of apartment: $2,258.68

Filed: 1/18/18

PALMER DISTRICT COURT

John Czuber v. Olde Hadleigh Hearth & Home Center Inc.

Allegation: Breach of contract and breach of express warranty in sale of high-end patio furniture: $4,038

Filed: 2/1/18

Picture This

By
Departments Picture This

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A Sneak Peek

MGM Springfield gave area officials and the press a sneak peek at the Massachusetts Casino Career Training Institute (MCCTI) Gaming School on Feb. 13. Located on the ninth floor of 95 State St., MGM Springfield’s headquarters, the facility was designed to develop and train individuals interested in applying for gaming positions with the resort casino slated to open this fall. MCCTI is operated by Training and Workforce Options, a collaboration between Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Below, from top to bottom, MGM President and COO Mike Mathis talks with guests at one of the poker tables. Middle, MGM Springfield General Manager Alex Dixon is flanked by STCC President John Cook and HCC President Christina Royal. Bottom, below, Cook is one of the interested spectators as Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, right, is given some lessons in how to deal blackjack from Robert Westerfield, vice president of Table Games for MGM Springfield.   Photos by MGM/Springfield Mark Murray



Grand Tour

The West of the River Chamber of Commerce (WRC) board of directors and elected officials recently toured the OMG Inc. manufacturing facility in Agawam. Employing more than 350 people in the Agawam facility alone, OMG is a domestic manufacturer of specialty fasteners, adhesives, tools, and related products for the commercial and residential construction markets. Below, pictured top to bottom, from left: West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, Hampden County Sheriff Nick Cocchi, WRC Executive Director Robin Wozniak, Agawam Mayor Bill Sapelli, and state Rep. Nick Boldyga. Bottom, from left: Boldyga, Sapelli, and OMG CEO Hubert McGovern.

State announces Grants to Restore Rivers, Increase Climate Readiness

By
Daily News

BOSTON — The Baker-Polito Administration recently announced $97,397 in state grant funds for priority projects in the City of Northampton, and the Towns of Duxbury, Middleton, and West Boylston to remove dams, aid in the restoration of rivers to their natural state, and increase climate readiness.

Benefits of river restoration include increased habitat for fish and wildlife, flood management, landscape development, and an increase in recreational opportunities and access. The grant funds are administered by the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Ecological Restoration (DER). 

“By working with local communities and organizations, the Baker-Polito Administration is able to assist in the removal of aging dams, which will reduce the impact of floods, and improve ecosystems and habitats,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Matthew Beaton. “The projects receiving funding benefit local, regional, and state economies by creating and sustaining jobs within the construction, engineering, and nursery industries.”

Locally, work will include Upper Roberts Meadow Brook Restoration and Upper Roberts Meadow Brook Dam Removal in Northampton, to be funded with a $25,000 state grant.

The brook is a cold water stream with a resident trout population. Removal of the 30-foot high dam will provide numerous environmental benefits, including conversion of the dam impoundment back to a free-flowing reach, re-connection of approximately nine miles of upstream habitat for fish and other aquatic organisms, and repair of ecological processes that support a healthy stream system including the movement of sediment and organic matter. This grant will support the city in completing the permitting phase, conducting the bid phase, and beginning the project implementation phase. 

Priority projects are evaluated by DER on their ecological benefit, cost, size, practicality, feasibility, contribution to climate readiness, opportunity for public education and recreation, available program resources, and partner support. They are chosen through a state-wide, competitive process, with selected projects commencing when the DER issues a pre-Request for Responses (RFR). Eligible applicants include municipalities, private property owners, non-profits, and academic institutions. Selected projects are also eligible to receive technical services such as data collection, engineering, design work, and permitting; project management and fundraising assistance from DER staff; and small grants.

Country Bank Announces Promotions

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank President and CEO Paul Scully today announced several promotions:

 

  • Mark Phillips has been appointed to first vice president of Internal Audit. He has been with the bank for 23 years and is a certified internal auditor and certified bank auditor. He has more than 40 years in the financial services industry in various positions, most recently, the director of Internal Audit. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Masters of Business Administration from Nichols College; he is also a graduate of the National School of Banking. Phillips and his wife, Lisa, actively support the Epilepsy Foundation and the Worcester County Food Bank.

 

  • Andrew Sullivan has been promoted to small business lending officer and has been with the bank for four years. He began his career as a staff auditor at Wolf & Company in Springfield, where he worked for two years before joining Country Bank as a credit analyst.He has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Business Management along with an MBA with a concentration in Accounting from Elms College. In 2015, he started a charity golf tournament “Andrew Sullivan’s Swing for a Cure” to support Cystic Fibrosis and bring awareness to the disease. Over the past three years this event has raised more than $30,000. Sullivan is also a member of the Young Professional Society and was recently selected to receive the Best in Bank award from Country Bank.

 

  • Sarah Yurkunas has been promoted to commercial portfolio manager and has been with the bank for 11 years. She began her career at Country Bank in the loan-servicing area and then moved to a Loan Coordinator position, which inspired her to pursue her career in the commercial lending area. Yurkunas has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from Bay Path University. She has also taken classes from Mass. Bankers Assoc. and received a certification in Fundamentals of Credit Analysis: Intro to Commercial Lending. She volunteers many hours of her personal time to support the bank’s community programs and enjoys giving back to her community.
  • Christine Witz has been promoted to retail lending officer. She has been with the bank for seven years, most recently as the assistant branch manager in the Charlton office. She serves on the Buy Ware Committee.

Elms College Names Katie Longley VP of Finance and Administration

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — College of Our Lady of the Elms has appointed accomplished higher education finance executive Katie Longley, CPA, of Abilene, Texas the college’s new vice president of Finance and Administration.

Reporting to the president, Longley, who will join Elms College March 26, will be responsible for the strategic oversight and management of the college’s financial resources and operations.

Longley comes to Elms from Abilene Christian University in Texas, where she currently serves as associate vice president of finance. She held successive positions as controller, tax director, and payroll manager, and senior accountant during her tenure with ACU. 

Prior to her work in higher education, Longley was in public accounting, working as an associate for Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, and then becoming a senior auditor for Davis, Kinard & Co. She holds a master’s degree in accountancy and a bachelor’s degree in business administration, both from Abilene Christian University. 

“I’m very thankful to have been chosen as the new vice president of Finance and Administration for Elms College,” Longley said. “I look forward to making the move to Western Mass. and serving the students, faculty, and staff in ways that contribute to the core values and the mission of the college.”

Longley fills the position vacated by Brian Doherty, MBA, who retired from the college earlier this year.