Home 2022 October (Page 4)
Daily News

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union recently introduced the newest addition to its senior management team: Kristina Hamel, who joins UMassFive as vice president of Human Resources.

Hamel comes to UMassFive from Shriners Hospitals for Children in Springfield, where she worked for the past 20-plus years, overseeing up to 250 employees and more than 150 volunteers. She holds a bachelor’s degree in human resource management from Bay Path University and has earned her Senior Professional Human Resource certification.

At UMassFive, Hamel will oversee all employee hiring, training, recognition, and diversity program efforts.

“I feel so fortunate to work alongside such an amazing group of professionals who are truly dedicated to making a difference for our members and community,” she said. “UMassFive is a special place to work, and I look forward to serving as a trustworthy advocate for our staff and mission.”

Daily News

WESTFIELD — The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce will hold its Legislative Luncheon on Friday, Oct. 21 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Tucker’s Restaurant, 625 College Highway, Southwick. Legislators and elected officials attending include Westfield Mayor Mike McCabe; state Sen. John Velis; and state Reps. Kelly Pease, Michael Finn, and Nicholas Boldyga.

“The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce is focused on advocating for local businesses,” said Eric Oulette, the chamber’s executive director. “This event provides our members with an opportunity to interact in an open discussion with our local legislators. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions, as well as express concerns and ideas that they have to improve the business community.”

The program begins at 11:30 a.m. with registration and lunch. At 12:30 p.m, attendees will hear from each legislator, and then moderator Candice Berube, publisher of Westfield City Lifestyle magazine, will facilitate the discussion.

This year’s legislative luncheon is sponsored by Polish National Credit Union, Baystate Noble Hospital, Mestek Inc., Cannabis Connection, CHH Engraving, Gary Rome Hyundai, and Armbrook Village. To reserve tickets or inquire about sponsorships, call (413) 568-1618 or email [email protected]. The cost is $45 for members and $55 in advance for general admission. RSVP by Monday, Oct. 17 (no refunds after that date).

Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — After handcrafting all-natural organic soaps from a workshop in her home and selling them online and at farmers’ markets, Kay Hernandez, owner of Pure Life Soaps, is opening her first retail store at 80 Windsor St. in West Springfield, where she will host a grand-opening celebration on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“We are excited to offer Western Massachusetts a soap shop offering quality, unique bath products that are free of chemicals and harmful ingredients and made with exotic and healing essential oils,” she said.

Hernandez began making soaps after becoming ill from a hormone imbalance caused by chemicals in the commercial soaps she had been using.

Some of Pure Life’s featured soaps include Oatmeal Scrub, Wildflower, Grapefruit Tea Tree, Moringa Mango, Turmeric Orange Oatmeal, Lavender Oatmeal, as well as unscented soaps. The Pure Life Soaps shop will be open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and can be found online at www.purelifeshop.co.

Daily News

CHICOPEE — Elms College has named higher-education executive Andrew Coston the college’s new vice president of Student Affairs. Reporting directly to the president, Coston is responsible for the strategic oversight and management of the college’s Student Affairs office.

“I am excited to welcome Dr. Coston to Elms College,” Elms College President Harry Dumay said. “His experience in student affairs administration and career development will be a welcome addition to Elms College, and I look forward to working with him on the strategic direction of the college.”

Coston is joining Elms from Gustavus Adolphus College (GAC) in Saint Peter, Minn., where he recently served as assistant dean of students and executive director of GAC’s Center for Career Development. Prior to that, he was director of Career Services at Cecil College in Maryland.

In his new role at Elms, Coston is responsible for providing leadership, management, and supervision to the dean of students, the director of Campus Ministry, the director of Residence Life, and director of the Health Center. Additionally, he is a member of the president’s cabinet.

Coston has more than 20 years of higher-education experience in student affairs and career services. He holds a doctoral degree in education from Morgan State University in Maryland, a master’s degree in school counseling from Loyola College in Maryland, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Assumption College in Worcester.

“To everyone in the Elms community, I will bring my enthusiasm for meeting people from all walks of life,” Coston said. “It is important to meet students and people where they are, understand their perspectives, and help get them to where they want to go.”

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Royal Law Firm announced it recently welcomed attorney Justin Goldberg to the team.

Goldberg received his bachelor’s degree from Hartwick College, his master’s degree in teaching with secondary mathematics certification from Simmons College, and his juris doctor from Western New England University School of Law. He is admitted to practice law in the state of Massachusetts and the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts.

Daily News

LONGMEADOW — JGS Lifecare, a healthcare system serving seniors and their families, held its 2022 annual meeting on Sept. 22 in the Hy and Roz Gloth Auditorium at JGS Lifecare in Longmeadow.

The meeting culminated with the presentation of the Chairman’s Service Award to Susan Goldsmith, a two-term past president of JGS Lifecare and longtime supporter. “It is a great personal pleasure to pay tribute to my predecessor and dear friend,” JGS Board Chair Dr. Stuart Anfang said. “Susan provided outstanding leadership during four very tumultuous years. Under her wise guidance, we emerged stronger and better-positioned to face challenges and embrace new opportunities.”

This was the first in-person community gathering since the organization’s 2019 annual meeting, and spirits were high. “It is wonderful to have our community of supporters back in our building to hear about our recent accomplishments and our exciting vision for the coming year,” said Susan Halpern, vice president of Development and Communications. “It is also a great opportunity to celebrate our staff for their hard work and phenomenal dedication.”

Robert Whitten, former executive director of the Leavitt Family Jewish Home and recently appointed president of JGS Lifecare, introduced JGS staff and thanked them for an excellent August survey from the Department of Public Health. Whitten also highlighted the recent expansion of services to include Northeast Rehab Inc., operated by registered physical therapist Cherie Stack for the past 25 years.

“Patients of Northeast Rehab will benefit from the person-centered approach of the Green House model of small-house care that has become one of the hallmarks of Sosin Center for Rehabilitation,” Whitten said. “It was clear from the start that we share a similar commitment to providing the highest quality of rehab services, and that our environment and how we deliver care is a great match. This partnership is very exciting for our campus and the people we serve.”

Adam Berman, CEO of JGS Lifecare, shared plans to continue what was started years ago at Sosin Center for Rehabilitation, with the transformation of its model of care to the small-house model of person-centered care. Planning is underway to expand this model of care to residents at the Leavitt Family Jewish Home.

“We see the benefits of such a model at Sosin, and at two of our affiliated homes in Chelsea, and we’ve proven — to ourselves and others — that, with the right mindset and systems, the small-house or Green House model not only impresses with its looks, but, more importantly, contributes to a better quality of life for our residents.”

Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank’s Ware branch at 136 West St. will host a free Community Shred Day on Saturday, Oct. 8 from 9 a.m. to noon. As in past years, Monson Savings Bank is partnering with PROSHRED of Wilbraham for this event. The bank welcomes the public to dispose of their private documents safely and securely.

Storing documents that contain personal information in the home can pose a major security risk. Monson Savings Bank is encouraging residents to shred any documents they no longer need, especially those that contain private information. This free Community Shred Day is an ideal opportunity to properly discard unwanted documents, such as tax returns, bank or credit-card statements, bills, medical records, and more.

“We are really looking forward to hosting our branch’s annual Community Shred Day,” said Vicki Baldyga, Ware branch manager. “Monson Savings’ Shred Days gives the members of our community a convenient opportunity to safely and securely destroy their old documents. It is always such a fun event that allows us interact with community members and help keep their information safe.”

Prepackaged refreshments and giveaways will be available at the event, while supplies last.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Chocolate chip? Oatmeal raisin? Sugar? Peanut butter? Snickerdoodle? What’s your favorite cookie?

On Thursday, Oct. 6 at 4 p.m., some of the region’s most talented bakers will come together at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to support Square One in its first-ever “Cookies & Milk” fundraising event. Guests will be treated to a variety of cookie samples from participating vendors and will then have an opportunity to vote for their favorites. In addition to the sweet treats, guests will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cookie-themed cocktails.

The event, which will also include raffles and a silent auction, has title support from PeoplesBank and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Tickets cost $65 and can be purchased at www.startatsquareone.org. All proceeds from the event, also supported by Meridian Industrial Group and Baystate Health, will directly benefit the children and families who participate in Square One’s programs and services.

Participating cookie vendors include Hot Oven Cookies, Pete’s Sweets, Granny’s Baking Table, Auntie’s Best Creations, Aramark at Bay Path University, Rice Fruit Farm, and the Girl Scouts of Central and Western Massachusetts.

Square One currently provides early-learning services to more than 500 infants, toddlers, and school-age children each day, and family-support services to 1,500 families each year, as they work to overcome the challenges in their lives.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — New Valley Bank & Trust will cut the ribbon on its newest full-service branch at 333 Elm St., West Springfield, on Friday, Oct. 7 at 11:30 a.m. Joining the bank’s board chair, Frank Fitzgerald, will be West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, state Sen. John Velis, and state Rep. Michael Finn. Refreshments will be served featuring local vendors from West Springfield.

“We are delighted to be a part of the West Springfield community. Our bank is committed to being accountable,” Fitzgerald said. “We see our customers every day and appreciate the direct feedback and opportunity for all of our employees to serve them.”

New Valley President Jeff Sullivan added that “our customers and prospects have been asking us to open a branch on the west side of the Connecticut River for some time. We have recognized the need to increase the convenience of doing business with the bank, and we are proud to be able to offer our services in West Springfield. I spent 11 years of my career working on Elm Street, and many members of the New Valley team have had similar past experiences. We are thrilled to be back in the neighborhood with friendly, familiar faces. As a gesture of good will, the bank recently donated to the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club, the first of many new community partnerships to come.”

The bank is entering all customers opening new checking accounts into a drawing for a series of $500 gift cards during the month of October. Accounts may be opened online at www.banknewvalley.com or in person at any of the bank’s three branch locations: 333 Elm St. in West Springfield or 1930 Wilbraham Road or One Monarch Place, both in Springfield.

Daily News

WARE — Country Bank has introduced a new affordable-housing program featuring no down payment for first-time homebuyers. The first-of-its-kind program will assist low- to moderate-income families in purchasing a home. Country Bank has pledged $10 million to the program to help make a difference for these first-time homebuyers.

This program is designed to help those who need it most by offering 100% financing for single-family homes or condominiums and 95% financing for two-family properties, with no down payment. In addition, the bank will cover 100% of the private mortgage insurance (PMI) that traditionally adds to the monthly payment, saving the borrower hundreds of dollars each month. This feature also gives the borrower more purchasing power by not having to pay the cost of mortgage insurance. Certain restrictions and locations apply for this program.

“Buying your first home can be very stressful, and not having the ability to save for a down payment prohibits many from purchasing a home, even when they can afford the monthly payment. We are very pleased to offer a program that will make a difference for so many homebuyers in our communities,” said Denise Walker, senior vice president of Retail Lending for Country Bank. “Owning your first home no longer has to be a dream; we have designed a program to help the dream of owning your own home become a reality.”

Country Bank’s mortgage experts can assist those interested in learning more about the program or who may be ready to purchase a home.

The no-down-payment, first-time homebuyer program is available until the $10 million commitment has been allocated. To learn more, visit www.countrybank.com/mortgages or a banking center, or call the Customer Care Center at (800) 322-8233.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Dress for Success Western Massachusetts (DFSWM) announced achievements by all three of its staff members. Their commitment to empowering women to attain economic independence has made the organization a standout among 144 Dress for Success Worldwide affiliates, and has grown the organization in spite of challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Executive Director Margaret Tantillo is one of only 16 executive directors from around the world invited to join the inaugural Dress for Success Worldwide Affiliate Advisory Council. Representing the Northeastern U.S., Tantillo will give input to determine how Dress for Success will move forward and provide support throughout the affiliate network. According to Worldwide, “as an established affiliate with solid programming, we feel that Margaret’s participation in the council will bring unique insights that can benefit the entire organization.”

DFSWM does, in fact, have solid programming. In addition to its signature interview suiting, it has graduated 11 cohorts from its Foot in the Door workforce-development program in under six years, and is currently launching the 12th class. In less than three years, the Margaret Fitzgerald Mentorship Program has quadrupled the number of mentees paired with professional women in the community. DFSWM has also established a Professional Women’s Group to support participants looking to advance their careers and gain leadership skills. And in response to the needs of local women during COVID, it has established a digital-literacy coaching program that has provided more than 400 hours of one-on-one learning.

Overseeing this advancement is Jess Roncarati-Howe, who has been promoted to director of Programs and Operations. Having been hired in January 2020 as a part-time program coordinator, Roncarati-Howe quickly advanced, expanding programming, fostering community relationships, and responding to the needs of local women seeking gainful employment during and post-pandemic. As the former executive director of the Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce and the AIDS Foundation of Western Massachusetts, she is uniquely qualified to develop programs that target the needs of the local workforce while meeting participants wherever they are in their lives.

The overall success of DFSWM would not be possible without its more than 100 consistently active volunteers. This group of women supporting women is led by Volunteer Engagement Manager Diane Jacobs, who brings a distinct combination of facilities management, event coordination, and office oversight experience to the role.

Having joined the staff in September of 2019, Jacobs has established structure, enthusiasm, and a culture of gratitude that ensure an ever-growing roster of committed volunteers. Most recently, she has led the Volunteer Engagement Committee to the completion of a volunteer handbook that has been recognized as a resource by Dress for Success affiliates across the globe.

She has also, over the last two years, coordinated the largest and most successful tag sales in the organization’s history and brought DFSWM to the table for initiatives such as United Way of the Pioneer Valley Women’s Leadership Council’s Power of the Purse and the Suited for Growth program in collaboration with Follow My Steps and Bay Path University.

Daily News

FLORENCE — Florence Hearing Health Care (FHHC) is encouraging people of all ages to prioritize their hearing healthcare during Audiology Awareness Month this October. Florence Hearing is excited to see more people talking about their hearing healthcare this month as Audiology Awareness Month coincides with the launch of over-the-counter (OTC) hearing aids being made available this month.

The American Academy of Audiology started Audiology Awareness Month in 2008 as a means of bringing awareness to hearing health and the importance of hearing protection. Florence Hearing is urging the community to help it encourage anyone who has been wondering about their hearing, regardless of age, to get a hearing test. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, even though 13% of the population has hearing loss, only 16% of adults ages 20-69, and 30% of adults over age 70, with hearing loss use hearing aids. Untreated hearing loss can have a significant impact on the quality of life for those experiencing it, such as social isolation. It is also associated with other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

OTC hearing aids are an option for people with mild to moderate hearing loss, but with many brands likely to hit the market, a patient may need to do some research to determine which device meets their hearing loss and lifestyle needs. Florence Hearing is encouraging folks to consider OTC hearing aids as the hearing equivalent to reading glasses. Florence Hearing always recommends the first step in any individuals’ hearing healthcare journey is to get a hearing test with an audiologist, even if the patient will be purchasing OTC devices. In addition to getting a hearing test beforehand, the staff at Florence Hearing encourages people to follow up with an audiologist if they find the OTC devices are not helping.

Audiologist Jennifer Sowards, Au.D., owner of Florence Hearing, points out that an important aspect that is missing from the OTC delivery model is the support that an audiologist provides, such as helping patients reacquaint their brains to sound after experiencing hearing loss, called aural rehabilitation.

“They are an appropriate starting point; however, it is still important to see an audiologist for your hearing evaluation to determine whether or not they will help you,” Sowards said. “We are hopeful that this launch will lead to more folks experiencing the positive benefits of treating their hearing loss.”

A baseline hearing test is recommended for folks over age 50 and for anyone who has a perceived change in their hearing and/or tinnitus. An audiologist will do a thorough diagnostic evaluation to make sure there are no underlying, potentially treatable conditions causing the hearing loss and whether further consultation with a healthcare provider is needed.

“Hearing aids aren’t hearing cures, and most folks require a level of in-person support to be successful with using them,” Sowards said.

Florence Hearing encourages the community to manage their hearing healthcare as they do other regular healthcare, like dental and eye care, and recommends that people get a baseline hearing test by age 50, understand the results and any recommendations, and have access to recommended communication solutions in a no-sales-pressure healthcare setting.

Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — A total of 1,603,354 visitors attended the 2022 Big E in West Springfield. During the fair’s 17-day run, an all-time single-day attendance record was set when 177,789 visitors arrived on Saturday, Sept. 24. Five additional daily attendance records were also set.

The event featured a diverse concert lineup of more than 80 individual performances, plenty of fair foods, rides, and unique shopping experiences. The tradition continues next fall from Sept. 15 through Oct. 1, 2023.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) named Michael Eriquezzo associate vice president for Marketing and Communications. He oversees the Office of Marketing and Communications and is responsible for advertising, design, web management, public relations, branding, and internal and external communications, including Lucent magazine, a publication with a print distribution of 26,000.

Eriquezzo joined AIC in 2017 as the chief graphic designer and visual brand manager for the college. He received a bachelor’s of business administration degree in marketing from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.

Meanwhile, Tami Christopher has joined AIC as executive director of Student Success and Opportunity, tasked with leading the Center for Navigating Educational Success Together (NEST), which encompasses the James Shea Library along with advising, tutoring, accessibility and accommodations, and other specialized support initiatives that facilitate and support students’ educational success via student-centered educational services.

Christopher brings more than 10 years of experience supporting the post-secondary success of students, particularly those from traditionally marginalized communities. She has held leadership roles with Post University, the University of Bridgeport, and Middlesex Community College in Connecticut. She has supported post-secondary access and opportunity initiatives through research, policy, and program design work with CT Voices for Children, Our Piece of the Pie, and Ready CT.

She has worked closely with current U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona on early college program development and has collaborated on college access and success initiatives nationally, including in Colorado, Maine, Rhode Island, and Texas. She earned a doctorate in educational leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

In addition, Millie Lopez-Cook has been hired as director of Human Resources and deputy Title IX coordinator. She will have oversight and responsibility for recruiting, training and development, employee relations, compensation management, health and welfare benefits, record management and diversity, equity, and inclusion for AIC. Additionally, as deputy Title IX coordinator, she will serve in an investigative role and ensure the timely resolution of reports of sex discrimination, sexual misconduct, or harassment.

Lopez-Cook brings to AIC an extensive background in human resources professionally in the nonprofit and for-profit sectors and as an academic, having taught human-resource management, organizational behavior, labor relations, and business management at the college level. She graduated with a master’s degree in science management from Albertus Magnus College in Connecticut.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Balise Auto, with nine locations throughout Western Mass., will be donating a portion of the proceeds from the sale of every set of four tires sold from Oct. 1 through Nov. 30 to Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) as part of its Tires to Inspire campaign.

“We have been longtime supporters of Junior Achievement, its programs and events,” said Alex Balise, director of Marketing at Balise Auto. “Financial literacy is so important, and this Tires to Inspire campaign is our way of raising funding for and awareness of the amazing work JAWM does in our community.”

JAWM is dedicated to providing economic-education and financial-literacy programs to youth throughout Western Mass, opening their minds to their potential and preparing them for life after graduation.

“Balise Auto has been a great corporate partner over the years, sponsoring events such as our EnTEENpreneur Challenge and Stock Market Challenge events,” said Jennifer Connolly, JAWM president. “We’re thrilled they decided to increase their assistance through this campaign. Our academically challenging programs are offered to local schools and community groups free of charge because of the financial support we receive from businesses like Balise, as well as individuals and foundations.”

Balise added that “winter will be here soon with its snow and ice, so now is a great time for people to make sure their tires are in good shape. Even if you don’t need tires, we encourage anyone who can to support Junior Achievement through a direct donation.”

To make a direct donation to Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, visit jawm.org/donate.

Daily News

HOLYOKE — The first MassHire Holyoke All-abilities Career Fair highlighting National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 12 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Vcare Holyoke, located at 200 High St. Businesses and community resources will be available for job seekers.

Reflecting a commitment to a robust and competitive Massachusetts labor force, each October, NDEAM celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and educates about the value of a workforce inclusive of their skills and talents.

The theme for NDEAM 2022 is “Disability: Part of the Equity Equation.” It recognizes the important role people with disabilities play in a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is a fitting time to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.

For more information about joining the fair, contact Ivie Cordero at [email protected] or (413) 322-7133, or sign up at www.masshireholyoke.org.

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 131: October 3, 2022

George Interviews Ann Kandilis, Springfield Works and the Working Cities Challenge Initiative

Creating opportunities to thrive. That’s the underlying goal of Springfield Works and the Working Cities Challenge Initiative. Ann Kandilis leads that program, and she is the guest on the next installment of BusinessTalk. Kandilis and BusinessWest Editor talk about Springfield Works, a $400,000 Community Empowerment and Reinvestment Grant, and ongoing work to address the needs and goals of those who are justice-system involved. It’s must listening, so join us for BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest  and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

Sponsored by:

Also Available On