Year: 2019

GREENFIELD — After the World Eye Bookstore at 156 Main St. in downtown Greenfield moved down the street, the storefront sat empty for almost two years before former landlord Robert Cohn decided to take a new tack to find an appropriate tenant for the 5,600-square-foot space. He contacted local creatives to find out what might be an exciting contribution to the creative economy of downtown Greenfield, and artists and artisans from myriad disciplines suggested that a makerspace could be an economic driver and help create a destination downtown. So Cohn moved forward with finding the team to put such a plan in place, and the Hive was born.

Rachael Katz and Adrienne LaPierre are the project leads working to implement the vision of a state-of-the-art public makerspace. Katz, the owner of the Greenfield Gallery just across the street, is the primary technical consultant for the Hive, with experience that combines the skills of a mechanical engineer with the talents of an artist. She is the sculptor behind the Beatrice the Bee project, the largest public art project ever undertaken in downtown Greenfield, in which six painted bees will be placed around town in celebration of Bee Fest in May 2020. LaPierre, who will be the executive director of the facility, is an educational technology consultant who has spent the past five years working within the Brattleboro public school system to develop innovative ways to integrate makerspace activities and engineering design into the elementary- and middle-school curriculum. They are working with a small, dedicated team of advisors and volunteers to bring the Hive to life. They have applied for a planning grant and have initiated fundraising efforts to cover costs for the first year of development.

The name of the Hive is a tribute to the long-standing legacy that Greenfield holds in the world of beekeeping. In the mid-1800’s, Lorenzo Langstroth invented what has come to be known as the traditional beekeeper’s hive, the Langstroth Hive. Langstroth served as the pastor of the Second Congregational Church on Bank Row, and the church honors his contributions at its annual Bee Fest.

Makerspaces are membership-based community workshops with tools. They combine manufacturing equipment, community, and education for the purposes of enabling members to design, prototype, and produce manufactured works that wouldn’t be possible to create with the resources available to individuals working alone. Makerspaces represent the democratization of design, engineering, and fabrication. They are a fairly new phenomenon, but are beginning to produce projects with significant national impacts.

Traditional crafts will have a home, with equipment like industrial sewing machines, a leather stitching machine, and a community loom. Traditional artisans will stand side by side with engineers operating 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines. Performing artists may design fabric for costumes, and props for plays can be crafted at the same time prototypes for new products created by local innovators and entrepreneurs take shape.

“I’m delighted to support this exciting project that I see contributing to the community in several ways,” said the building’s new owner, Timothy Grader of Holyoke Property Management, who has given the team a reduced rent to leave them time to put all the pieces together to fit out the space. “First, there’s a strong educational component that will provide important job training and project creation on site. Second, the Hive will offer an outlet for creativity and collective expressiveness. Third, it will make a positive contribution to the local economy, thus strengthening downtown Greenfield and beyond. And finally, this resource will build community in an honest, holistic fashion — just what Greenfield needs.”

BOSTON — The state’s November total unemployment rate remained at 2.9%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) preliminary job estimates indicate that Massachusetts added 5,200 jobs in November. Over the month, the private sector added 4,900 jobs, as gains occurred in leisure and hospitality; education and health services; financial activities; professional, scientific, and business services; trade, transportation, and utilities; manufacturing; and information. Losses occurred in construction and other services, while government added jobs over the month. 

From November 2018 to November 2019, BLS estimates Massachusetts added 48,600 jobs. 

The November unemployment rate was six-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 3.5% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Eleven months of preliminary job estimates indicate that 2019 will be another strong year for the Massachusetts economy,” Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Rosalin Acosta said. “Nearly 50,000 jobs have been added year to date. The unemployment rate has remained at 2.9% for five consecutive months and is 0.6% below the U.S. average. Education and health services maintain the distinction of having added the most jobs and the largest growth rate in the Commonwealth, accounting for nearly half of all the private-sector jobs added since December of 2018.”

The labor force increased by 4,100 from 3,845,600 in October, as 4,900 more residents were employed and 800 fewer residents were unemployed over the month.

Over the year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a percentage point.

The state’s labor-force participation rate — the total number of residents 16 or older who worked or were unemployed and actively sought work in the last four weeks — remained at 67.7%. Compared to November 2018, the labor-force participation rate is down two-tenths of a percentage point.

The largest private-sector percentage job gains over the year were in education and health services, other services, information, and financial activities.

SPRINGFIELD — Robinson Donovan, P.C. once again partnered with the Gray House for its Adopt-a-Family Christmas program to brighten the season for deserving families in the Western Mass. community. The Gray House pairs local businesses with families in need to fulfill Christmas wish lists for their children; this year, Robinson Donovan assisted five families. 

“As a firm that’s deeply rooted in our community, partnering with the Gray House is something we very much look forward to each year,” said Partner David Lawless. “We value the opportunity to help ensure that local children have the happy holiday they deserve.”

Through the help of businesses like Robinson Donovan, the Gray House was able to provide more than 800 gifts from children’s wish lists in 2018. In addition to the Adopt-a-Family Christmas program, the organization hosts a general toy drive for children in the community with the help of local schools and shelters.

Robinson Donovan believes in philanthropy and partners with charities year-round, providing funds and support for organizations throughout the Pioneer Valley. These organizations include Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Hampden County, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Springfield Museums, and Homework House.

HOLYOKE — An introductory course at Holyoke Community College (HCC) for people interested in starting a cannabis business has been rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 6. The three-hour class, run by the Cannabis Education Center, was cancelled on Dec. 6 due to weather. 

The Cannabis Education Center is a partnership between HCC and C3RN, the Cannabis Community Care and Research Network.

“How to Start a Cannabis Business” will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on HCC’s main campus, 303 Homestead Ave. The course, which costs $99, is a comprehensive introductory session about starting a cannabis business.

Other upcoming Cannabis Education Center classes include:

• “Professional Cannabis Business Plan Development,” on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. This $199 course is for experienced cannabis entrepreneurs who need assistance developing a business plan; and

• “Medical Cannabis 101,” on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the HCC Kittredge Center, a course for dispensary agents and healthcare providers. The cost is $99. 

Space is limited, so advance registration and pre-payment are required for all courses. No walk-ins will be allowed. To register, visit hcc.edu/bcs and click on ‘Cannabis Education.’

SPRINGFIELD — Way Finders Inc. announced that President and CEO Peter Gagliardi will retire in June 2020 after more than 28 years of service to the organization.

Since 1991, Gagliardi has served communities in Western Mass. at Way Finders. He has seen the organization through significant growth, including the restoration and development of more than 1,000 units of affordable housing, becoming a chartered member of NeighborWorks America in 2008, and, most recently, the construction of a new Housing Center in downtown Springfield that is due to open its doors in April 2020.

Under Gagliardi’s leadership, Way Finders has become the largest nonprofit housing provider in Western Mass. Last year, the organization impacted the lives of more than 50,000 men, women, and children by providing housing counseling, emergency shelter, affordable-housing development and management, financial education and first-time-homebuyer workshops, employment training and retention services, and neighborhood revitalization. Governed by a 21-member board of directors, Way Finders and its subsidiaries, Common Capital Inc. and MBL Housing and Development, has a staff of more than 240 employees and an annual budget, including its subsidiaries, of $87 million.

“For more than a decade, I’ve enjoyed working with Peter, getting to know him personally and professionally. He has led the organization through turbulent times, weathering literal and economic storms to which others succumbed,” said Trevis Wray, president of Way Finders’ board of directors. “I read that character can be considered the congruence between values and actions, and it is clear what Peter values: commitment, consistency, integrity, and trust. Peter has led an organization built on trustworthy partnerships and has been open to new ideas and always accessible. On behalf of the entire board, I thank Peter for being an exceptional leader and partner.”

Added Gagliardi, “I have been honored to serve as Way Finders’ president and CEO for so many years, and to work alongside such dedicated and passionate colleagues and partners. Together, we have responded to the ever-changing needs of the community by developing new and innovative programs that deliver housing, employment, and economic-mobility opportunities to individuals and families in our region. I have full confidence in the Way Finders team to continue our important work; we have a strong mix of seasoned professionals and up-and-coming leaders. It’s an exciting time for the organization, and I’ll embrace my new role as an advocate and supporter of Way Finders’ mission to light pathways and open doors to homes and communities where people thrive.”

Way Finders’ board of directors has formed a hiring committee and has engaged Marcum LLP to lead a national search for a new CEO beginning in January.

HOLYOKE — Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. announced the hiring of Corey Jenkins as senior associate in the Audit and Accounting department.

Jenkins comes to the firm from New York, where she spent five years as a public accountant.

Jenkins received her master’s degree in accounting from the University of Albany. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and a certified public accountant in the state of New York. She is a strong communicator and is personally invested in helping clients succeed and grow, said MBK Managing Partner James Barrett.

“Corey’s not-for-profit and other niche experience adds real value to the firm and is a great benefit to our clients,” Barrett added. “We’re proud that Corey chose MBK as her new home in Western Massachusetts, and we look forward to seeing her grow and thrive in our firm.”

CHICOPEE — After a groundbreaking ceremony Dec. 5 that was attended by state Rep. Don Humason, Chicopee Mayor Richard Kos, local dignitaries, and members of the public, Ruth Willemain’s dream of building a permanent residence for Harmony House, a home for the terminally ill, has started to become a reality.

A foundation and footings have already been poured and backfilled thanks to Cedar Falls Construction, Washburn Concrete, and Chicopee Concrete Service. They are currently seeking carpenters and skilled craftspeople to assist with the framing stage.

On Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22, Harmony House will have its inaugural ‘blitz build’ at 66 View St. in Aldenville. Bella Napoli and bNapoli of West Springfield have offered to supply food for the volunteers. The press is invited to attend.

For more information, visit www.harmonyhousewma.org or call (413) 588-8533.

SPRINGFIELD — Rocky’s Ace Hardware, a family-owned business with neighborhood-based stores in seven states, announced the hire of Joseph Harrington as its new B2B sales manager. Harrington will help guide incremental growth in select territories by identifying and implementing sales strategies, in addition to overseeing the company’s sales team. 

“Joe comes to us with extensive and relevant experience in sales,” said Rocky’s Ace Hardware President Rocco Falcone. “Not only has he worked in the retail space for years, he also has deep ties to communities we proudly serve, having volunteered extensively in youth sports programs. We are thrilled to have him on our team.”

Educated at American International College, Harrington brings business acumen to his new role, paired with real-world experience gleaned from various management positions. He was previously employed by two well-established wall-covering companies in New Jersey and California Paints, based out of Andover, Mass. He has successfully managed sales territories, store openings, and people, as evidenced by the many awards and accolades amassed throughout his career.

“With his history of notable achievements, we’re thrilled to welcome Joe to the company,” Falcone said. “We’re excited to see what the future holds for him and his team.”

CHICOPEE — Elms College President Harry Dumay has been elected to the board of trustees at Norwich University in Northfield, Vt. 

“I am delighted to join the Norwich University board of trustees and bring my life experience to the Norwich community,” Dumay said. This appointment is Dumay’s first election to the board of a college or university. Currently, he is also a board member of Pope Francis Preparatory School in Springfield.

Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the U.S. and the birthplace of the ROTC. Dumay’s election to its board of trustees was made official in October. 

Dumay became the 11th president of Elms College on July 1, 2017. Prior to that, he had served in higher-education finance and administration for 19 years. His past experience at the senior and executive levels includes positions at the following colleges and universities: Saint Anselm College, Harvard University, Boston College, and Boston University. He holds a Ph.D. in higher-education administration from Boston College, an MBA from Boston University, and a master’s degree in public administration from Framingham State University. He earned his bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, from Lincoln University.

Dumay currently serves as a commissioner, treasurer, member of the executive committee, and member of the annual report on finance and enrollment for the New England Commission for Higher Education; is a member of the board of directors for the Assoc. of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts and the student aid policy committee for the National Assoc. of Independent Colleges and Universities; a board member for the Boston Foundation’s Haiti Development Institute; and a past board member of Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, N.H.

HATFIELD — The National Tour Assoc. (NTA) recently presented Jay Smith, founder of Sports Travel and Tours, with the 2019 Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award for dedication to the organization’s mission for more than 20 years.

At NTA’s annual conference, called Travel Exchange, on Dec. 12 in Fort Worth, Texas, Smith accepted the honor from NTA President Pam Inman. Smith has served as a volunteer, member of the organization, member of the NTA board of directors, and board vice chair and chair.

“Jay’s first NTA convention was in 2000 in Salt Lake City,” Inman said. “He has been active, engaging, and leading ever since. He is a positive powerhouse of support. I’m proud to call him my friend.”

Smith was first elected to the NTA board in 2012. He was vice chair in 2016 and chair in 2017. “He continues to be actively involved today as a sponsor and volunteer and as a member,” Inman said, adding that Smith sits on the NTA nominating committee and the owner’s network.

NTA is the leading business-building association for professionals serving customers traveling to, from, and within North America. In accepting his award, Smith said the professionals he has met as part of the network have helped him grow and develop as a business person in the industry. “This is as humbling a moment as I could ever have in my lifetime,” he said.

Smith founded Sports Travel and Tours in 1996, offering tours to baseball games initially and then expanding to include other sports trips in a wider range of venues, including Cuba, London, and Japan.

Support from his staff and his wife, Carol, allowed him to dedicate time to the NTA and its goals. Fellow NTA members helped support the board in achieving those goals. “This is a group award,” he told the crowd of NTA members. “If it wasn’t for all of you on this team, we wouldn’t have been hitting any home runs. We would have been striking out.”

Smith is active in Tourism Cares and Travel Alliance Partners, two industry-focused organizations, and Sports Travel and Tours has been the official travel company of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum since 2007.

NORTHAMPTON — TommyCar Auto Group joined forces with the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Patrick Cahillane for No Shave November, an event devoted to ‘growing’ cancer awareness while raising funds to support cancer prevention, research, education about cancer prevention, as well as those fighting the battle. It’s a month-long journey in which participants forgo shaving and grooming in order to evoke conversations, while raising cancer awareness.

The Sheriff’s Office has a policy that prohibits beards; however, for one month this year, that policy was suspended, and officers were allowed to grow beards for a one-time donation. Throughout the month of November, deputies and staff were given the opportunity to opt out of the dress code, growing out their facial hair, for a donation of $20 to the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament, which supports the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Employees of TommyCar Auto Group, which includes Country Nissan, Country Hyundai, Northampton Volkswagen, Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley, and the new Genesis of Northampton, also joined in this campaign, donating the money they would spend on shaving to the charity.

In total, the Sheriff’s Office raised $2,700, which Carla Cosenzi, president of TommyCar Auto Group, matched, resulting in a donation of $5,400 to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

“We were honored to partner and match the contributions that the Hampshire Sheriff’s Office raised to the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament,” Cosenzi said. “Thanks to this event, we’re able to help make a difference and hopefully one day find a cure for cancer.”

SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) was inducted as a corporate member into the Rotary Club of Springfield on Dec. 6. Nathan Skrocki, regional director, and Keri Davidson-Bravman, vocational rehabilitation and children’s worker supervisor for the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, will be the participating members.

The MCB was sponsored by Rotarian Paul Lambert, vice president of Enshrinement Services & Community at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

MCB was established on July 13, 1906. The organization was originally comprised of three men and two women, including Helen Keller. Its mission is to provide vocational and social rehabilitation services for residents of the Commonwealth who are declared to be legally blind by an eye professional. MCB provides rehabilitation and social services to Massachusetts residents who are blind, leading to their independence and full community participation. Its main office is in Boston, with regional offices in Springfield, Worcester, and New Bedford.

LONGMEADOW — The free monthly Lunch and Learn program at Ruth’s House Assisted Living Residence at JGS Lifecare has announced its topic for Friday, Jan. 17. Dr. Bill Bazin, a chiropractor for more than 30 years, will present “Stress Less in 2020 with Time and Energy Efficiency,” offering strategies to better manage stress and increase quality of life.

Almost 60% of Americans consider themselves stressed and depressed, and stress can play a major factor in heart attacks. Bazin will talk about stress and offer strategies on what to do to deal with it. Topics will include why we have stress; different types of stress; signs and symptoms of an overstressed life; how to get exponential growth from one’s time and energy; strategic planning for one’s life and family; eliminating fear, panic, and anxiety; the five factors of health; solutions for stress that can be done at home, and when to take the next step to deal with stress.

The lunch at noon will be followed by the presentation from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The Ruth’s House Lunch and Learn program is free and open to the public. Tours of independent and memory-care neighborhoods will be available. RSVP to Lori Payson at (413) 567-3949, ext. 3105, or [email protected]. For more information, visit jgslifecare.org/events.

HOLYOKE — At the Family Business Center’s (FBC) December Log Cabin Dinner Forum, Lakisha Coppedge of Coppedge Consulting, Kimberley Betts of Betts Plumbing & Heating Supply, and Sherryla Diola of Mundo Artisan Foods were awarded grant-funded memberships for the 2020 year. This inaugural grant, aimed at supporting women business leaders in Western Mass., was funded by Encharter Insurance. 

“My goal is to grow our trusted business learning community intentionally, and to increase diversity and inclusion,” said Jessi Kirley, FBC executive director, who collaborated with the women leaders of local partner organizations, including the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, Leadership Pioneer Valley, EforAll, and Valley CDC, for nominations and selection of the award recipients.

Added Tracey Benison, president of Encharter Insurance, “women-owned businesses are critical to the success of small business in the Pioneer Valley. As a women-led insurance agency, Encharter looks for meaningful ways to support women-owned businesses. The recipients of the scholarships are standouts in their professions. We are excited to support their continued journey of learning.”

WESTFIELD — Cannabis Connection Inc. announced that its marijuana-establishment application will be reviewed at the next public meeting of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) on Thursday, Dec. 19. This moves the company one step closer toward acquiring a provisional license which would allow it to operate as an adult-use marijuana facility in Westfield.

Held once a month, public meetings of the CCC allow the board to consider and discuss matters relative to renewals, as well as final and provisional licenses of interested cannabis companies throughout the state. After submitting and undergoing an exhaustive process, Cannabis Connection has compiled all the necessary components for its application to be vetted and considered.

“We’ve been overwhelmed with the outpouring of community support and the number of employment inquiries we’ve received. Nearly 200 candidates came out to our recent job fair,” said Thomas Keenan, the company’s CEO. “As we navigate our approval process, we appreciate everyone’s continued patience. We will be communicating with prospective employees on timing and next steps by e-mail and will also post updates on our website and social media.”

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) celebrated the 20th anniversary of its annual Giving Tree campaign Thursday, fulfilling the holiday wishes of 375 consumers from four nonprofits that aid and support some of the area’s most at-risk residents.

During the campaign’s closing ceremony, HCC students, faculty, and staff gathered with representatives from WestMass Elder Care, Homework House, the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC), and the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home to share food, stories, and gifts.

“Every year, when HCC asks us if we want to be a part of this, there is no way we could say no,” said Brittani Bey, a home visitor from the MSPCC. “All of our families are more than grateful to have something for their child; otherwise, they might not be able to give them anything at all.”

Eleven HCC departments participated in this year’s Fall Food Fest in November, raising $833 for the Giving Tree campaign. The money was used to fulfill 26 gift tags for MSPCC and create gift boxes that included baby wipes, diapers, clothing, books, and toys.

“We have several families who are in shelters right now and questioning where they might sleep tomorrow,” Bey said. “To be able to give them gifts and provide them with something really brightens their day, and we appreciate all of your help.”

Each year during the annual campaign, Giving Trees are set up in designated areas around the HCC campus. Participants choose colored-coded tags from one of the nonprofit agencies based on the age of the recipient and their wish for a gift. The wrapped gifts are then sorted and piled on tables for the closing celebration.

“From the moment the Giving Trees go up, there is some magic and excitement that is generated on campus,” said Kathryn Senie, chief of staff to HCC President Christina Royal. “You see them in the hallways and people taking tags, which is wonderful. It’s really about kindness, isn’t it? And kindness is one of our values at HCC, and when I look at the missions of our community partners, I dare say it’s one of your values, too.”

Senie pointed out that, this year, the staff at WestMass Elder Care made a reciprocal gesture of generosity to the college, collecting and donating 226 pounds of food and supplies to the HCC Food Pantry.

“This is kindness,” she said, “and together we have a collective impact on the communities and the people that we serve, so thank you.”

SPRINGFIELD — Gross gambling revenue at MGM Springfield totaled $19.9 million in November, which were down from October ($21.2 million) and from November of 2018 (more than $21.3 million).

The numbers reflect an ongoing trend where the monthly GGM figures are far below the $34.8 million per month that MGM projected before it opened in August 2018.

The average since the casino opened has been $21.7 million, with a high of $25.7 million in March 2019.

BOSTON — The Baker-Polito administration announced that the state’s Part B individual income-tax rate will be reduced from 5.05% to 5% effective Jan. 1, 2020. This upcoming tax cut represents the conclusion of the statutory process laid out in a 2002 state law to lower the income tax rate to 5% based on certain state revenue milestones, and will return $88 million in FY 2020 and approximately $185 million in FY 2021 to taxpayers.

“Starting in January, the income-tax rate will be the lowest it has been in decades, allowing Massachusetts taxpayers to be able to keep more of their hard-earned money,” Gov. Charlie Baker said. “Our administration is working to keep the Commonwealth’s economy strong while maintaining fiscal discipline, and now we are finally making happen what voters called for almost 20 years ago.”

The 2002 law provides that, for each tax year in which certain inflation-adjusted baseline revenue-growth requirements are met, the income tax rate will be reduced by increments of 0.05 percentage points until the rate reaches 5%. The legislation replaced a tax-rate reduction schedule that had passed by ballot initiative in November 2000.

“Consistent increases in state revenue are triggering this final income-tax rate reduction,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Michael Heffernan. “This is excellent news for Massachusetts taxpayers, and it was incorporated into our assumptions for FY 21, so there is no change in our revenue outlook.”

Part B income includes wages, salary, and many other forms of income, including self-employment income; business, professional, and farm income; S-corporation distributions; and rental income from personal property. The rate associated with Part B income is also applied to several other income categories, including interest and dividends and most long-term capital gains.

SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health received a $1 million grant from TD Bank to further the health system’s commitment to the communities it serves by funding an innovative new mobile preventive health clinic called the TD Bank – Baystate Health Bus.

Baystate Health is one of only four healthcare organizations in the U.S., along with six in Canada, to receive the Ready Challenge Grant from the TD Bank Group to support programs aimed at improving access to early detection of disease and disease intervention.

“While advances in healthcare enable many to lead healthier lives, the unfortunate reality is that not all communities have equal access to quality healthcare,” said Greg Braca, CEO of TD Bank. “We believe that, when people feel better about their health, they feel better about their future, which is why we’re focused on supporting research, solutions, and technologies that make healthcare more accessible for everyone. The Ready Challenge is an incredible opportunity for the bank to help improve the lives of our customers, colleagues, and communities.”

The new TD Bank – Baystate Health Bus will deliver preventive care to people in urban and rural communities who are not receiving services due to financial and transportation barriers, including a shortage of providers in their neighborhoods.

As a mobile medical unit, the bus will be staffed by a multi-disciplinary healthcare team to bring health screenings, early detection, and referrals for needed treatment or other services directly to at-risk individuals.

Today’s patients face challenges accessing care, and often low-to-moderate income at-risk individuals do not receive life-saving screenings, early detection, and referrals, noted Dr. Kevin Hinchey, chief Education officer and medical director of Baystate Health, and senior associate dean of Education at UMass Medical School – Baystate.

According to the 2018 County Health Rankings, the counties served by Baystate — Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin — are among the poorest in the state. Health issues common to the three counties include high rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, and mental-health and substance disorders.

“Patients are faced with a number of barriers, including lack of transportation, financial constraints, and work and family commitments, and in some cases, a shortage of physicians in their community,” Hinchey said. “The TD Ready Challenge Grant will play an important role in eliminating barriers to care in the many communities we serve, as well as allow us to train new doctors to serve the underserved.”

Using a state-of-the-art mobile medical unit, Baystate will create a team that will see people where they are, rather than having them come to a Baystate facility for treatment. “As a result, we would expect to see a reduction in the severity of chronic illness and disease in the low- to- moderate-income at-risk patients we seek to serve,” Hinchey said.

Baystate Health will work closely with its community partners to further identify and prioritize various health issues and identify locations the bus will travel to.

“The 2018 TD Ready Challenge winners have already had an amazing impact on their communities, showing us that this funding can truly make a difference,” said Shelley Sylva, U.S. Head of Social Impact for TD Bank. “We are confident that the four 2019 TD Ready Challenge winners in the U.S. will measurably improve the quality of healthcare access, research, and preventive care for those traditionally underserved in our communities.”

The teaching component to the TD Bank funded program is what makes it “truly unique,” Hinchey added.

Baystate Health, which serves as the regional campus of UMass Medical School, has a long history as an academic teaching hospital educating generations of health professionals — residents, medical students, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and others — many of whom practice locally. Baystate will use the new initiative to further train young healthcare providers such as doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and others to work as a team and serve urban and rural populations through the school’s innovative PURCH (population-based urban and rural community health) track.

“It is our hope to inspire them to serve needy populations once they enter the profession,” Hinchey said.

The initiative will begin with the development of the program during the first year — building partnerships with educational institutions and community sites, research, and purchase of the mobile unit — followed by implementation of the program.

LENOX — Carr Hardware, a family-owned business for more than 90 years, announced that its new location in Lenox is now open for business.

The 11,000-square-foot retail space is located in the Center at Lenox on Routes 7 and 20. The Center at Lenox is also home to well-known retailers CVS, Marshalls, and Price Chopper.

The new, state-of-the-art Carr Hardware offers a modern and convenient shopping experience with a nostalgic, vintage hardware-store flair, said company President Bart Raser.

“We are truly excited about opening this brand-new, innovative, and complete home-improvement store that features a customer shopping experience specially designed for the Lenox community,” he added. “The store will serve the needs of local business, contractors, resorts, and homeowners alike.”

Preferred brands featured include STIHL, Toro, Pratt & Lambert, Valspar, Cabot, Milwaukee, Dewalt, Weber, Big Green Egg, Scotts, Graber, and Carhartt, to name a few. The store also features a large, seasonal garden center, as well as services like digital key duplication, screen and glass repair, lamp repair, and propane filling. Free local delivery is available as well as the Carr assurance, “at Carr, we service what we sell.”

Unique to the market, Carr Hardware has introduced “Ben Moore 2 Your Door,” where contractors and homeowners can select their Benjamin Moore paint purchase, along with the needed accessories, and have them all delivered within the Greater Lenox area the same day for free. Orders can be placed online, by phone, or by text.

“The opening of our new store in Lenox strengthens our presence in the Berkshires and complements our nearby stores in Lee, Pittsfield, Great Barrington, and North Adams,” Raser said.

HOLYOKE — When Holyoke Community College student Christopher Royster needed help repairing his credit after an incident of identity theft, he knew where to turn — the Thrive Student Resource Center at HCC.

Thrive@HCC is known mostly for providing support to students experiencing food and housing insecurity. Thrive manages HCC’s Food Pantry and provides free grab-and-go snacks to hungry students as well as financial-management and budget-planning consulations. More than that, though, Thrive staff can assist students as they negotiate the complex bureaucracies associated with myriad issues, such as health insurance, food, housing and utility assistance, and credit repair. 

Thrive Coordinator Rosemary Fiedler personally made phone calls on Royster’s behalf to organizations where his stolen identity had been used to open fraudulent accounts.

“Due to the assistance and expertise of Rosemary and Thrive, I was able to get the help that I needed,” said Royster, a 37-year-old military veteran and psychology major from Chicopee. “I was finally able to get my name cleared, and my credit has improved.”

Royster spoke on Dec. 10 at a reception acknowledging a $50,000 donation from PeoplesBank earmarked for HCC’s Thrive center. The money will be used to establish a dedicated fund for Thrive managed by the HCC Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising corporation of Holyoke Community College.

“This gift from PeoplesBank will allow us to significantly scale up the services we provide to students,” said Amanda Sbriscia, HCC’s vice president of Institutional Advancement and executive director of the HCC Foundation. “In so many ways, Thrive at HCC addresses the emotional, physical, and psychological needs of our students so they can come closer to achieving a degree and build a more stable future.”

Thomas Senecal, president and CEO of PeoplesBank, and other officers from the bank toured Thrive and the HCC Food Pantry before presenting a ceremonial check to HCC president Christina Royal and a real one to Sbriscia.

“This is extremely impressive. I’m overwhelmed,” Senecal said. “I’m proud to be working for an organization that can do things like this. As a mutual bank, we have the ability to focus on the needs of the community, and I can tell you, standing here today, it’s pretty obvious where the need is. This is certainly one of those programs that is very worthy, and I thank you for accepting this gift.”

Added Royal, “we’re so grateful, not only for your financial support, but for coming and taking the time to hear about some of the work that we do. A lot of times, when people think of Holyoke Community College, they only think about us as providing educational services. But our students come here, and they are dealing with so many other challenges in their lives, balancing work and school and families and children and sometimes health issues. We’re trying to create an environment where everybody knows Thrive is one of the resources the college offers, and as a student you have access to this and everything else.”

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) has opened a STEM Center that features resources and services to assist students studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Students who visit the facility can use a computer lab and study lounge and take advantage of other services, including exam proctoring, career exploration, and class support. In addition, the center features collaborative spaces for group study, tutoring, supplemental instruction, and group meetings.

“We’re thrilled to open the STEM Center on campus, which we hope will inspire our students to excel in their classes as they prepare for exciting careers in STEM fields or to transfer to four-year institutions to continue their studies,” said Barbara Washburn, interim dean of the School of STEM.

Funded by a U.S. Department of Education HSI STEM grant, the STEM Center offers services and academic support for all students taking STEM classes. With an enrollment of more than 25% Hispanic students, STCC is designated a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), which makes the college eligible for federal grants to expand opportunities for students.

In a grand opening on Dec. 11, Washburn joined STCC President John Cook and other staff, faculty, and students for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and open house at the STEM Center, which is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Building 17, Room 425, on the STCC campus.

CHICOPEE — Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) has made a $10,000 donation to the Chicopee Police Department, to be used to purchase an aerial drone for public safety. Drones have become a critical tool for first responders, allowing for additional capabilities for search and rescue, surveillance, crash reconstruction, and other tasks.

“Without the support of a community partner like the Polish National Credit Union, this wouldn’t have been possible,” said Chicopee Police Chief William Jebb. “In today’s environment, there are many times that a drone can effectively accomplish missions for the Police Department in a manner that is safer and more cost-effective.”

Stephen Burkott, who chairs the PNCU board, noted that “this is a wonderful investment that will have long-term effects.”

Added James Kelly, president and CEO of Polish National Credit Union, “when the Chicopee Police Department expressed the need for an aerial drone, we jumped at the opportunity to assist. It’s our civic duty as a community leader to help our municipalities, especially when it comes to public safety. Largely, we owe our success to the wonderful people and businesses that make up our communities. It goes without saying that PNCU will always support the interests of Chicopee and our friends at the Police Department.”

HOLYOKE — The Cannabis Education Center, a joint venture between Holyoke Community College (HCC) and C3RN – the Cannabis Community Care and Research Network – has scheduled three standalone courses for people working in the cannabis industry or those who want to get started.

The first, “How to Start a Cannabis Business,” will be held Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on HCC’s main campus, 303 Homestead Ave. The course, which costs $99, is a comprehensive, introductory session about starting a cannabis business.

The next, “Professional Cannabis Business Plan Development,” will run on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. This $199 course is for experienced cannabis entrepreneurs who need assistance developing a business plan.

The third, “Medical Cannabis 101,” is geared toward dispensary agents and healthcare providers. That will run on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 6 to 10 p.m. in the HCC Kittredge Center. The cost is $99. 

Space is limited, so advance registration and pre-payment are required for all courses. No walk-ins will be allowed. To register, visit hcc.edu/bcs and click on ‘Cannabis Education.’

HCC and C3RN are designated training partners through the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s Social Equity Vendor Training program. The program was designed to provide priority access, training, and technical assistance to those negatively impacted by the drug war. The Cannabis Education Center is based out of the HCC Kittredge Center.

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond Inc. a northeastern leader in engineering and environmental consulting, opened a new office in Portland, Maine this month. The 4,400-square-foot office, located just minutes from Portland City Hall and the Old Port, will allow the firm to better serve its growing base of clients throughout Maine and the region while providing an opportunity to employ professionals native to the area.

Senior Project Manager Dan Bisson will provide leadership for Tighe & Bond’s newest office. Bisson has more than 25 years of experience with management, permitting, planning, design, and construction of water infrastructure projects for municipalities, utilities, and private clients.

“Establishing an office in Portland allows Tighe & Bond to be closer to and support our growing client base in Maine,” said Tighe & Bond President and CEO Bob Belitz. “The new office location will benefit new and existing clients while also providing an accessible location for employees in the area.”

Tighe & Bond’s strategic plan calls for geographic growth to further reinforce its position as a Northeast regional leader in engineering and environmental services. The company is experiencing office expansions and staffing growth in multiple locations throughout the Northeast, adding four offices in the past five years and expanding its Worcester office earlier this year.

BOSTON — Massachusetts health officials lifted the state’s temporary ban on the sale of vaping products on Wednesday, while also imposing a series of new regulations restricting the sale of nicotine vaping and flavored vaping and tobacco products.

This action follows the Legislature’s passing and Gov. Charlie Baker’s signing into law “An Act Modernizing Tobacco Control,” which provided the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) with additional authority to regulate access to tobacco and electronic nicotine-delivery systems, including vapes.

While the governor’s statewide ban on the sale of vaping products, in place since September, is no longer in effect, the new law places the following restrictions:

• Retail stores licensed to sell tobacco products, such as convenience stores, gas stations, and other retail outlets, are restricted to the sale of non-flavored nicotine products with a nicotine content of 35 milligrams per milliliter or less;

• The sale of non-flavored nicotine vaping products (with a nicotine content over 35 milligrams per milliliter) is restricted to licensed, adult-only retail tobacco stores and smoking bars; and

• The sale and consumption of all flavored nicotine vaping products may occur only within licensed smoking bars.

“Massachusetts has taken important steps to protect its residents from the emerging public-health risk posed by vaping products, and with the new law signed by Gov. Baker and the introduction of today’s regulations, we continue to prioritize actions that protect the public health,” said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Monica Bharel. “I continue to recommend that people not use any e-cigarette or vaping products, as these products are not safe. The new law expands the availability of smoking-cessation resources through insurance, and DPH continues to remind people that help is available through a variety of tools.”

Beginning June 1, 2020, the sale of flavored combustible cigarettes and other tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes and flavored chewing tobacco, will be restricted to licensed smoking bars, where they may be sold only for on-site consumption. Also taking effect on June 1 is the addition of a 75% excise tax on the wholesale price of nicotine vaping products, in addition to the state’s 6.25% sales tax.

The new regulations lay out a roadmap for the implementation of the new law, including enforcement authority, penalties for non-compliance, legal signage, and advertising requirements.

SPRINGFIELD — Cooley Shrair announced that Alison Shimel has joined the firm as associate legal counsel in the general business and commercial real estate practice. She will work with a broad base of clients, including developers, landlords, and general business clients.

Shimel attended the University at Albany, participating in an accelerated undergraduate and law school program, and was awarded her juris doctorate in 2019 after six years of study. While attending law school, she worked as a law clerk in the city of Springfield Law Department and at Cooley Shrair. She was active in the law-school community, participating in the Health Law Society and as research assistant for the Lawsuit Reform Alliance of New York.

LONGMEADOW — The Davis Educational Foundation has awarded the CCGS Joint Purchasing Initiative a $100,000 grant to be distributed over two years. This is the third grant by the Davis Educational Foundation to underwrite this collaborative project.

The Joint Purchasing Initiative (JPI) consists of the five private member institutions of the Cooperating Colleges of Greater Springfield (CCGS), including American International College, Bay Path University, Elms College, Springfield College, and Western New England University. The goal of the JPI, which will continue to be administered by Bay Path University, is to identify and implement strategic opportunities for collaboration where shared purchasing and shared services in high-cost and high-impact areas will result in significant institutional cost savings across the JPI’s partner institutions, ultimately containing the cost of higher education for students.

Since its founding in 2017, the efforts of the JPI have resulted in collective cost savings of nearly $900,000, with varying degrees of savings by institution. During this time, the JPI reduced costs by negotiating better deals on contracted services with vendors, such as student transportation for athletics and van leasing, rental-car agreements, contract management, corporate payment systems, IRB software, employee and student background checks, electricity and solar sources of energy, interpretive and captioning services, medical-waste-disposal services, and computer purchases.

“This model of shared services has been very successful for the JPI participating institutions,” said Michael Giampietro, Bay Path’s vice president for Finance & Administrative Services. “It offers us opportunities to reduce costs in a variety of areas, thereby freeing up funds for mission-focused priorities.”

With the funding from the latest grant from the Davis Educational Foundation, the next step in the evolution of the JPI is to explore and develop potential plans for shared services, implement best practices, reduce duplication of efforts, and drive efficiency gains with the expertise already existing within the institutions.

SPRINGFIELD — Union Station will host a series of free concerts next week featuring local schools and music groups. Performances will be held in front of the tree in the grand concourse area of the station. Parking in the Union Station Garage will be free to concert attendees for the duration of each show.

“We are so excited for the opportunity afforded to our students to spread holiday cheer with their performances at Union Station,” Superintendent of Schools Daniel Warwick said. “Students always relish occasions where they can give back to the community that has given so much to them, and their holiday performances are always a delight to behold. We are grateful to Union Station for welcoming them.”

The performances include:

Monday, Dec. 16, noon: Warner/Lynch Elementary School Chorus;

Tuesday, Dec. 17, noon: White Street Elementary School Chorus;

Tuesday, Dec. 17, 5:30 p.m.: Time Was a cappella trio;

Wednesday, Dec. 18, noon: Pottenger Elementary School Chorus;

Thursday, Dec. 19, noon: High School of Commerce Chorus;

Friday, Dec. 20, noon: Putnam Vocational Technical High School Music Ensemble;

Friday, Dec. 20, 6 to 8 p.m.: Western Mass Brass carolers; and

Saturday, Dec. 21, 1 p.m.: Community Music School.

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University President Anthony Caprio will retire at the end of June 2020 after 24 years in that role — making him the longest-serving president in WNEU’s history. He took over in 1996 as the fifth president in the 100-year-old institution’s history.

During his tenure, WNEU went from a college to a university and added several new buildings and programs, including the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. The board of trustees will conduct a nationwide search to find a successor.

“Western New England University has benefited greatly from Dr. Anthony Caprio’s leadership and stewardship over these many years. His upcoming retirement after 24 years of service is well-deserved, and he has worked tirelessly to advance our institution,” board of trustees chair Kenneth Rickson said last month.

“There have been many major achievements under Dr. Caprio’s term as president,” he added. “We made significant advancements in every area of campus life. We expanded our programs and curriculum, completed numerous changes and additions to the physical plant, enhanced our athletics programs, increased our student programs, and made significant advances in our technology. Dr. Caprio’s crowning achievement was completion of the plan to gain recognition as a university.”

BOSTON — As part of its commitment to environmental sustainability, Eversource Energy announced an industry-leading goal to be carbon-neutral by 2030. The energy company plans to achieve this aggressive goal through a series of targeted steps across its operations to reduce carbon emissions while also continuing to support regional economic growth and maintaining safe and reliable service for its approximately 4 million customers.

While the goal to be carbon-neutral is limited to the energy company’s own corporate emissions across all departments and operations, Eversource will continue to work with state leaders to reduce emissions from energy supply for customers in accordance with state and regional regulatory requirements. 

“As New England’s largest utility, we are proud to partner with our states and communities to achieve regional clean-energy and carbon-reduction goals,” said Eversource Chairman, President, and CEO Jim Judge. “Today, we are going one step further by setting a goal for our own operations to help demonstrate that carbon neutrality is achievable.”

With its goal set for 2030, Eversource would become the first investor-owned utility in the nation to be carbon-neutral. In order to achieve this, the energy company will take a series of targeted steps across corporate operations, gas distribution, and electric transmission and distribution. These include reducing energy use by improving the efficiency of its 69 facilities and reducing fleet emissions of its 5,200 vehicles, continuing to enhance the electric transmission and distribution system to reduce line losses, reducing sulfur hexafluoride (a potent greenhouse gas) in gas-insulated electric switchgear, and replacing remaining bare steel and cast-iron natural-gas distribution main lines to improve safety and help prevent methane leaks.

“The business community has an important role to play as we pursue clean-energy and carbon-reduction goals, as environmental sustainability and economic development go hand in hand,” said Dan Moon, president and executive director of the Environmental Business Council of New England. “As one of the nation’s leading energy companies, it’s encouraging that Eversource is proactively setting its own goals and demonstrating its commitment to a cleaner-energy future.”

Eversource has already significantly reduced its own carbon emissions through a series of steps, including the divestiture of all its remaining fossil-generation facilities in 2018. The company is also helping the region in achieving carbon-reduction targets that have been set by state and regional requirements with its clean-energy initiatives, such as the offshore wind partnership with Ørsted, award-winning energy-efficiency programs, solar development, innovative battery-storage projects, and electric-vehicle-charging infrastructure.

“We are excited to set an ambitious goal with our own corporate operations to lead by example,” Judge added. “Today’s news reinforces our position at the forefront of environmental sustainability and builds on our efforts to help our customers and communities reduce their carbon footprint.”

EASTHAMPTON — Florence Bank has completed a renovation of the interior and drive-through at its existing Easthampton branch at 5 Main St. 

The renovation is part of Florence Bank’s ongoing effort to align its physical branch locations with modern banking offerings and customer needs. The Easthampton renovation included interior updates and modernizations, along with two new ATMs.

Florence Bank is a full-service, mutually owned bank based in Florence and has served the Easthampton community for 20 years. It first merged with Easthampton Cooperative Bank and expanded and remodeled its present location on Main Street in 1999. The Easthampton location serves more than 6,400 customers annually.

“We’re proud to upgrade our Easthampton branch,” said John Heaps, president and CEO of Florence Bank. “Our customers who rely on this location can look forward to an upgraded banking experience as well as modern technology both outside and in.”

The renovations were intended to maintain the branch’s charm while also embracing the innovative design of Florence Bank’s newly constructed locations. The bank partnered with the following local contractors on the project: HAI Architecture in Northampton, Pioneer Contractors in Easthampton, Broadway Office Interiors in Springfield, Fine Woodworks Millwork in South Hadley, Mercier Carpets in West Springfield, and Grimaldi Painting in East Longmeadow. 

Inside, the lobby, teller line, and customer-service area were renovated and updated, making the interior brighter and more contemporary. A new digital screen has also been installed to keep customers up to date on bank-wide enhancements and notifications.

Outside, two new ATMs are now available, and the drive-up teller equipment was enhanced to provide two-way audio/video communication. 

The Easthampton branch will celebrate the renovations with ‘branchwarming’ open houses on Thursday, Dec. 19 and Friday, Dec. 20 during normal branch hours. Refreshments and holiday treats will be available during the open houses, which are free and open to the public. While in the branch, customers can also vote for their favorite local nonprofit as part of the bank’s annual grant initiative, Customers’ Choice Community Grants.

Florence Bank opened a branch on Allen Street in Springfield in late 2018. In 2020, the bank will open its newest Hampden County location in Chicopee, expanding its network to 12 locations.

SPRINGFIELD — Behavioral Health Network Inc. (BHN) has been awarded a $10,000 grant from PeoplesBank to be used for BHN’s Money School program, a financial-independence initiative for survivors of domestic or sexual violence who are also recovering from addiction.

PeoplesBank’s grant to BHN will support the operation of the Elizabeth Freeman Center’s Money School program. Money School is an award-winning, trauma-informed, financial-independence initiative designed to create long-term safety and economic security for survivors.

According to Matthew Bannister, vice president of Marketing & Innovation at PeoplesBank, “financial literacy is a skill that is lacking today in so many areas of society, so it is gratifying to see BHN addressing this issue with a vulnerable population. We applaud BHN’s efforts in this area, and in so many other important areas, too. They provide great services to our communities.”

Participants are given individually tailored financial and career mentoring as well as intensive advocacy and support for their substance-use recovery and healing in the aftermath of domestic or sexual violence. The program helps survivors achieve and maintain safety, economic independence, and family well-being for themselves and their children.

Kathy Wilson, president and CEO of BHN, noted that “much of our work at BHN has to do with supporting and engaging with people as they overcome obstacles and plan a better future for themselves. The Money School program has been particularly effective in helping women to take control of their finances, one of the most difficult challenges for anyone when navigating the long-term impact of domestic violence. We deeply appreciate the resources being provided by PeoplesBank in this vital program that is changing the lives of the women served.”

The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence states that one in four women report experiencing domestic violence. In addition to physical abuse, domestic-violence survivors often experience financial duress, and almost half of domestic-violence victims struggle with substance-use disorders.

SPRINGFIELD — Some 50,000 children are expected to unwrap gifts this holiday season thanks to the efforts of Wonderfund, a private, nonprofit organization that provides resources and opportunities to children engaged in the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families.

The Student Prince and the Fort Restaurant invite the public to attend a wrap party to celebrate Wonderfund’s 2019 Holiday Gift Drive grand finale today, Dec. 10, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Massachusetts First Lady Lauren Baker, vice chair of Wonderfund, will be in attendance, along with the Pioneer Valley Wonderfund Committee, led by co-chairs Andy Yee of the Student Prince and the Fort and Christine Phillips of Peoples Bank.

“We hope you will join us for the wrap party on Dec. 10,” Yee said. “It will be a festive event, and it will include the presentation of a ceremonial check to Wonderfund as celebrity bartenders pour your favorite holiday cheer. We’re proud to sponsor this special evening, and we hope it brings magic to many children.”

Wonderfund’s Holiday Gift Drive connects hundreds of donors with thousands of children who deserve to feel special during the holidays. The goal is that every child in the Pioneer Valley has a gift to open this holiday season.

“All kids deserve to have carefree moments to play, to dream, and to grow,” Baker said. “When a child is neglected or abused, those moments are taken away. The Wonderfund gives us an opportunity to give them back.”

SPRINGFIELD — While the Zoo in Forest Park officially closed its gates for the season in early November, it will open for one night only during this year’s Bright Nights.

On Wednesday, Dec. 11, the Zoo will open from 5 to 8 p.m. Not all parts of the Zoo will be accessible due to snow and ice, but many animals will still be visible. The event features animal interactions, crafts, carolers from Longmeadow High School’s chorus, free hot cider, and a visit from Santa.

For those who have never experienced the Zoo in winter, this is a great opportunity to see how the animals — and the staff — handle winter weather conditions. All animals at the Zoo have access to shelter, with some structures offering full heat for those animals that require a warmer climate.

Tickets are available only at the Zoo gate on Dec 11. The cost is $5 per adult (adults with a 2019 season pass are $3). Children age 12 and under, as well as military families with an active ID, will receive free admission to the Zoo that night.

The Zoo is not affiliated with the Spirit of Springfield or Bright Nights, and Bright Nights is a separate cost, charged by Spirit of Springfield, per vehicle, at the main entrance to the park. This is not a fee imposed or collected by the Zoo.

BOSTON — The Thanksgiving holiday left Massachusetts employers in a good but cautious mood as business confidence remained steady during November.

The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index lost 0.3 points to 60.6 last month, leaving it one point lower than its level of a year ago but three points higher than in January.

The results came during a month when the Massachusetts unemployment rate remained at an historic low of 2.9% and employers nationally created a stronger-than-expected 266,000 new jobs. Employers also spent the month trying to make sense of the on-again, off-again trade war with China.

The U.S. economy grew at a deliberate 1.9% pace during the third quarter, while the Massachusetts economy contracted by 0.2% as employers began to bump up against labor-force constraints.

“The AIM Business Confidence Index has drifted up and down amid a swirl of economic and political uncertainties during 2019, but employers have remained consistently optimistic about their overall prospects,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA).

The constituent indicators that make up the Business Confidence Index all moved in a narrow range during November. The Massachusetts Index assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth lost 0.8 points to 67.0, while the U.S. Index declined 0.4 points to 59.2. The Massachusetts Index is virtually even with its level of a year ago; the U.S. index has dropped 4.5 points during the past 12 months.

The Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, gained 0.9 points to 59.5 after surging during October. The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, fell 1.6 points to 61.7, almost a point lower than a year ago.

The Employment Index remained even for the month, leaving it 1.3 points higher for the year, underscoring the capacity issues faced by employers struggling to find qualified workers in a full-employment state economy.

Non-manufacturers (62.2) were slightly more confident than manufacturing companies (59.3), which have been most directly affected by uncertainty surrounding trade policy. Medium-sized companies (61.2) were more optimistic than large companies (60.8) or small companies (59.2). Companies in Eastern Mass. (61.2) remained more optimistic than those in Western Mass. (59.8).

Barry Bluestone, retired Professor of Public Policy and Urban Affairs at Northeastern University and a BEA member, said Massachusetts policymakers appear ready to address issues such as housing and transportation that will affect the ability of the Commonwealth to attract and retain skilled workers.

“The economic future of Massachusetts rests with highly educated and highly skilled people who will maintain the Commonwealth’s status as a global center of economic growth and innovation. But those people will not put down roots here if they can’t afford housing or navigate their way to work,” Bluestone said.

AIM President and CEO John Regan, also BEA member, said political leaders in Massachusetts continue to show a willingness to collaborate on critical economic problems. He noted that the Baker administration and the Legislature worked together in November to pass a landmark $1.5 billion public-school funding reform bill that contained accountability measures sought by business.

“The partisan polarization that characterizes much of our political debate misses the fact that there is a moderate middle in America seeking action on important issues. A study from New Center shows that 43% of Americans classify themselves in the political center, compared with 34% for the right and 23% for the left,” Regan said. “The results make us optimistic that bipartisan cooperation will continue in Massachusetts on issues such as transportation, health costs, and taxation.”

GREENFIELD — Michael Tucker, president and CEO of Greenfield Cooperative Bank, announced that Gabrielle Young has joined the bank as a mortgage loan originator.

“Ms. Young has over 10 years of banking experience,” Tucker said. “Most recently, Gabrielle was a financial center operation manager at another area bank. In her new role, Gabrielle will be responsible for educating and guiding borrowers through the loan-application process. She is currently working out of our Florence location but will be permanently based at our Northampton location beginning in January 2020.”

Young studied business at the University of Hartford. She is current in all banking regulation training.