2023 - Page 22 of 44 - BusinessWest

Incorporations

By BusinessWest Staff July 5, 2023

Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

Alina Express Inc., 23 Capua Lane, Agawam, MA 01001. Ilhom Mamedov, same. Transportation services.

CHICOPEE

Elecon Inc., 40 Asinof Ave., Chicopee, MA 01013. Michael Benoit, same. Electrical contractor.

Exclusive Livery Inc., 680 Meadow St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Robert Mackay, 81 Farmington St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Transportation services.

EASTHAMPTON

Friends of Nashawannuck Pond Inc., 21 Taft Ave., Easthampton, MA 01027. Hillary Ballantine, same. The Nashawannuck Pond steering committee is an all-volunteer group of city residents whose mission is to provide guidance on ways to preserve the pond, maintain its health, and educate the public about the pond.

GREENFIELD

Sevenfoursixseven,Inc., 17 Arbor Dr., Greenfield, MA 01301. John Doleva, same. Car wash.

LEE
Family’s Contracting & HVAC Inc., 156 West Park St., Unit 5, Lee, MA 01238. Steven Piazzo, same. HVAC, construction, and telecommunications services.

LUDLOW

Xpress Services Inc., 192 East St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Kadam Desai, 112 Ducharme Ave., Chicopee, MA 01013. UPS store.

PITTSFIELD

Akimbo Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Kimberly Bohart, 18728 Bernardo Trails Dr., San Diego, CA 92128. Real-estate investments.

Billy J’s Elm Street Java Inc., 216 Elm St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. William Jones, 595 Tyler St., Plainfield, MA 01201. Coffee shop.

Damasca Landscaping Corp., 20 Barker Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Eric Damasca, same. Landscaping business.

SOUTHWICK

Pinnacle Excursions Inc., 1 Partridge Lane, Southwick, MA 01077. George Zantouliadis, same. Travel consulting services.

SPRINGFIELD

CH Specialty Services MA, P.C., 819 Worcester St., Suite 1, Springfield, MA 01151. Dr. Adnan Dahdul, same. Professional medical services.

Marte Tax and Services Co., 53 Stebbins St., Springfield, MA, 01109. Doricel Marte, same. Tax-preparation services.

WESTFIELD

Friends of Barnes Airport Inc., 112 Airport Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Alexander Colby, 42 Willow Brook Lane, Westfield, MA 01085. Corporation established to promote and carry out the goodwill and spirit of business and general aviation within the community through civic, charitable, educational, and benevolent support.

WILBRAHAM

Morrison Media Corp., 792 Stony Hill Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095. Sean Morrison, same. Media-management services.

Doing Business as Certificates

By BusinessWest Staff July 5, 2023

DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of June 2023.

BELCHERTOWN

Berkshire Henna & Handicrafts
107 Pondview Circle
Vanessa Concordia Dang

Chubby’s Belchertown Inc.
165 South St.
Anthony Damato

Consulting for the Journey
191 East St.
Robert Zucker

Creative Dance
1 Stadler St.
Kathryn Scherr

Homecare for Independent Living Inc.
82 West St.
Kathleen Sullivan

Mill Valley Vet
224 Mill Valley Road
Jesse Sugrue

Rustic Fusion
746 Bay Road
Christopher Snow

School Sprouts Educational Garden
185 Summit St.
Hope Guardenier

Utley Exteriors
631 Warren Wright St.
Stephen Utley

HOLYOKE

FTF
475 Beech St.
Ronny Authier

GoldNDiamonds
50 Holyoke St.
Lavinia Oprea

In Three Consulting
203 Ontario Ave.
Michael Dodge

Jan Transport
36 Hampden St.
Juan Morales

Lane Bryant Brands OPCO LLC
50 Holyoke St.
Lane Bryant Brands OPCO LLC

Maranatha Cleaning
183 Sargeant St.
Marcos Colon, Felicita Colon

Premium Brands OPCO LLC
50 Holyoke St., #E262
Premium Brands Services

QA Maintenance
98 Lower Westfield Road
Frances Russell

Unity Financial & Insurance
330 Whitney Ave., Suite 300
Robert Houle

Rejuven8 Painting and Powerwash
116 Waldo St.
Anel J. Serrano

Springfield Grocery
845 Main St.
Muhammad Khawaja

Western Mass Appliances LLC
2291 Northampton St.
Jason Brazee, Donald Dumais

LEE

Berkshire Gifts
970 Cape St.
Sandeep Verma

Claire’s #6634
290 Premium Outlets Blvd.
Suzanne Stoddard

Edwin Landscaping
460 East St.
Edwin Mizgquiri

Kiddleton Inc.
17 Premium Outlets Blvd.
Atsushi Iyoda

Northeast Paving
60 Willow Hill Road
Eurovia Atlantic Coast LLC

R.E. Leigh
245 East Center St.
Rubielle Nejaime

PALMER

Alfred’s Properties
1013 Maple St.
Alfred Tucker

Alpha Home Improvement
132 River St.
James Peterson

Dean P. Browne Home Improvement
203 State St.
Dean Browne

Hayden Marshall Equipment
13 Homestead St.
Robert Fowler

Once Upon a Memory Treasures
1444 North Main St.
John Havens Jr., John Havens Sr.

RJN Handyman
10 Elizabeth St.
Ryan Novia

Salon Trendz
1005 Church St.
Teresa Thompson

Sean’s Xscape Property Maintenance
150 Boston Road
Sean Duhamel

VCA Palmer Animal Hospital
1028 Thorndike St.
VCA Animal Hospital Inc.

PITTSFIELD

Alexis’s Landscaping
165 King St.
Cesar Lagunas

All Stars Barber Shop
308 Tyler St.
184 Dalton Ave.

Anthony’s Auto Sales
1420 East St.
Joseph Renzi

Bonnie Brae Campground
108 Broadway St.
Decoweaver Enterprises LLC

Bostonfun
184 Doreen St.
Shuang Liu

By Design Landscaping
58 Garland Ave.
Anthony Quinto

Center Staged
14 Caratina Ave.
Christine Traversa

General Computing Solutions
132 Lincoln St.
Kouakou Koffi

Grumpy Gardener
78 Howard St.
Kamaar Taliaferro

K&A Cleaning
328 Benedict Road
Kimberly Strattman, Amanda Strattman

Pixley’s Cleaning Service
61 Alden Ave.
Lisa Anne Pixley

Plant Food NJ
82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100
Plant Food Co. Inc.

Psychic Studio
152½ South St.
Elizabeth Stevens

Seddon Business Services
27 Dewey Ave.
Barbara Seddon

Simpler Home Loans
82 Wendell Ave.
DTJS Financial Services Inc.

Smoke and Soul Blvd.
45 South Merriam St.
Tommy and Teta LLC

Tully Services
58 Oak Hill Road
Mark Tully

Vazquez Auto Detailing
25 West Housatonic St.
Herman Vazquez

WESTFIELD

Alexis Rose Photography
144 Susan Dr.
Alexis Puza

B&D Pallet Building & Industrial Supply
997 Western Ave.
Joseph Musco

Dunkin’ Donuts
475 Southampton Road
Emanuel Sardinha

Ild Construction
3 Lozier Ave., Unit 2
Ildar Khuzhakhmetov

KG Pickup Manufacturing
9 Michael Dr.
Kenneth Gustafan

MK Galaxy Gutters
111 Roosevelt Ave.
Mark Krasnowski

NextGen Construction Inc.
301 North Elm St., Suite 2
NextGen Construction Inc.

RSG Specialty LLC
94 North Elm St., Unit 311
Ryan Specialty LLC

Silverfoxx Photography
23 Sherwood Ave.
Wendy McCann

A Typical Curio
425 West Road
Jennifer Christensen

Woodfeather Flutes
104 Park River Dr.
David Olszewski

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Atlantis Fresh Market #518
884 Westfield St.
Jimmy Kochisari

Babylon
716 Union St.
Asaad Al Juboori

BK Builders
59 Norman St.
Brian Kolodziej

Card Conservatory
350 Dewey St.
Alan Kazimov

Ezee Mart
662 Kings Highway
Mohamed Afraz

Fine Fettle Dispensary
175 Memorial Ave.
Benjamin Zachs

GameStop #789
935 Riverdale St.
Diana Jajeh

Hidden Gem 2
10 Elizabeth St.
Joseph Switzler

Infinity Auto Rental Inc.
74 Baldwin St.
Joseph Gallo

Long Radio
1102 Riverdale St.
Matthew Imbriglio

Lynn Property Services
848 East Elm St.
Samuel Lynn

MCI Dion Hair
33 Westfield St.
Melanie Dion

Nescor
148 Doty Circle
Sharon Tariff

Online Fabric Store
333 Park St.
Mayer Kahan

Print Design
150 Front St.
Miguel Rivera

Violinist’s Footsteps Studio
47 Hill St.
Liudmila Emciuc

Wedding Dreams
311 Elm St.
Ievgenii Gusiev

Bankruptcies

By BusinessWest Staff July 5, 2023

Bankruptcies

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

Arcouette, Jessika J.
a/k/a Pecoy, Jessika Jean
61 East Longmeadow Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/26/2023

Bobbi L. Perkins, LMHC
Perkins, Bobbi L.
198 State St., Unit 1
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Burnor, Robert A.
Burnor, Michell S.
a/k/a Smith-Burnor, Michelle
180 Main St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Date: 05/23/2023

Catterton, Larry Roland
Catterton, Virginia
296 Beacon St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 06/02/2023

Ciuro Resto, Angel
23 Beauregard St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/17/2023

Consentino, Jimmy
112 Barber St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 06/01/2023

Darin, Diane
15 Higgins Circle
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 06/01/2023

Delgado, Sally
15 Trafton St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/19/2023

Dennis, Stephen M.
Dennis, Jennifer A.
58 Amherst Ave.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Domaingue, Mark S.
188 Ashley St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Goodhue, Melinda Michelle
5 Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/22/2023

Hastings, Spencer R.
34 Fowler St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/24/2023

Herene, Denise M.
75 Atwood Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Janik, Stephen M.
40 Clark St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/24/2023

Kennedy, Edward P.
26 Queen Circle
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/18/2023

Kenyon, Debrah L.
128 Wales Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Korbut, Joe-Ann K.
a/k/a Karbut, Joeann K.
65 Beauchamp Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/30/2023

Lapite, Raymond Joseph
13 Ferry Hill Road
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Date: 06/02/2023

LaRochelle, David J.
27 Hancock St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/30/2023

Lopez, Liz Roxana
a/k/a Lopez Mendez, Liz Roxana
120 Wilber St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/26/2023

Merrett, John G.
130 Eastern Ave., #306
Lynn, MA 01902
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/19/2023

Merrill, Steven D.
24 Maple Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/23/2023
Nikitchuk, Aleksandr
Nikitchuk, Olena
PO Box 461
Russell, MA 01071
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Nye, Eric P.
78 Main St.
Blandford, MA 01008
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/23/2023

Ozyurt, Baris
37 Howard St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/18/2023

Pike Jr., Christopher A.
545 Old Dana Road
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/25/2023

Presho, Robert A.
Presho, Sarah .
14 Pinney St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/20/2023

Preston, Charles J.
98 Wellington St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023
Rasmussen, Migdalia
131 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/22/2023

Reyes, Marianna
29 Llewellyn Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/25/2023

Rosa, Kyle
84 Whitmun Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 13
Date: 06/01/2023

Sarrazin, Michele A.
37 Lincoln Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Date: 5/25/2023

Schmidt, Judith A.
72 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/31/2023

Shapiro, Heather M.
a/k/a OBriskie, Heather Marie
25 Hazen St.
Sprigfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/26/2023

Stebbins, Timothy
5 Jewett Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/17/2023

The Vintage Barn
Allen, Lisa Ann
365 Bardwell St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/29/2023

Williams, Allyson
52 Governor Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 05/31/2023

Zalucki, Jamie Heather
1151B Elm St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 05/30/2023

Real Estate Transactions

By BusinessWest Staff July 5, 2023

Real Estate

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

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BERNARDSTON

453 Brattleboro Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Steven Beckwith
Seller: Clyde E. Beckwith
Date: 06/08/23

77 West Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $268,200
Buyer: Jeffrey S. Deck Int.
Seller: Joanne E. Rose
Date: 05/31/23

CONWAY

102 Delabarre Ave.
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Erica K. Goleman
Seller: Donald L. Walker
Date: 05/31/23

186 Hoosac Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Emma Golonka
Seller: Herbert L. Sanderson
Date: 06/08/23

95 Main St.
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $274,900
Buyer: Maggie Russell-Ciardi
Seller: Karen A. Ferrandino
Date: 06/01/23

DEERFIELD

Stillwater Road (off)
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: John G. Savage Realty Corp.
Seller: Megg Churchill
Date: 05/31/23

16 West St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Mary F. Barber
Seller: Ronald Gnatek
Date: 05/31/23

GILL

131 West Gill Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $361,000
Buyer: Aaron Winston
Seller: Debra K. Bailey
Date: 06/05/23

GREENFIELD

49 Arnold Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Shanti Douglas
Seller: Monique Frigon
Date: 06/09/23

17 Beech St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: Jeremy T. Ebersole
Seller: Mazor, June R. (Estate)
Date: 06/06/23

658 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Colin Diesh
Seller: Todd Beckham
Date: 05/31/23

292 Deerfield St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Michael P. Sirois
Seller: Eds Enterprises LLC
Date: 06/01/23

24 East Cleveland St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Laura J. Jackson
Seller: Linda J. Woodall
Date: 06/01/23

193 Elm St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Deirdre A. Gleason
Seller: Adil F. Albehadili-Alboade
Date: 05/31/23

18 Ester Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Miles Warneau
Seller: Carrie H. Dubino
Date: 05/31/23

106 Franklin St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Emma J. Baker
Seller: T. B. Hyde
Date: 05/31/23

200 Green River Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Jacob Leff
Seller: Debra A. Nicolai
Date: 06/05/23

71-73 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: LCS Realty LLC
Seller: Laurence H. Klein
Date: 06/07/23

463 Main St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Community Young Men’s Christian
Seller: Zion Korean Church Greenfield
Date: 06/02/23

20 Prentice Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Evlyn Ashong-Katai
Seller: Ruby Realty LLC
Date: 06/02/23

HAWLEY

17 Ashfield Road
Hawley, MA 01339
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Andrew Deady
Seller: Donna Sumner
Date: 06/02/23

LEVERETT

292 Shutesbury Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Tyler D. Shute
Seller: Kris A. Wanczyk
Date: 06/02/23

LEYDEN

731 Greenfield Road
Leyden, MA 01301
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Tyler J. Helbig
Seller: Thomas E. Glabach
Date: 06/07/23

79 South Schoolhouse Road
Leyden, MA 01301
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Janell Howard
Seller: Linda M. Fregeau
Date: 05/30/23

MONTAGUE

6 8th St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $162,750
Buyer: Louisa R. Khettab
Seller: Newrez LLC
Date: 06/01/23

6 Carlisle Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $371,275
Buyer: Neil A. Rones
Seller: D. G. Sr. & N. B. Selover IRT
Date: 05/31/23

3 Dell St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Michael C. Berg
Seller: Ryan M. Doton
Date: 06/09/23

425 Federal St.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $441,000
Buyer: Hannah L. Rachootin
Seller: 425 Federal Street LLC
Date: 06/01/23

23 G St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Ryon W. Bourdon
Seller: Amanda L. Nash
Date: 06/01/23

Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Z & K Inc.
Seller: Arlene V. Johnis RET
Date: 06/07/23

32 Turnpike Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Walter Kleeberg
Seller: Rodney J. Demers Int.
Date: 06/08/23

28 Vladish Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Daniel T. Ryan
Seller: Daniel T. Ryan
Date: 06/05/23

19 West Main St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Keyedrya Jacobs
Seller: Honor Arnold
Date: 06/02/23

ORANGE

245 Brookside Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Sean Coffin
Seller: Dodge Contracting LLC
Date: 05/30/23

54 Hamilton Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: George P. Forte
Seller: V&J Real Estate Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

143 Hayden St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Emily L. Melvin
Seller: Go America LLC
Date: 06/09/23

81 Intervale Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Mei L. Pratt
Seller: Lomassonwulkan Funding TR
Date: 05/31/23

64 Whitney St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Inherited Property Solutions LLC
Seller: Fournier, Clifford J. (Estate)
Date: 06/05/23

64 Whitney St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Bethany N. Vincent
Seller: Inherited Property Solutions LLC
Date: 06/05/23

WARWICK

11 Revere Hill Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $324,500
Buyer: Matthew S. Baldelli
Seller: Mark A. Vieira
Date: 05/30/23

55 South Holden Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Abhijit V. Kamerkar
Seller: Nan R. Hunt
Date: 06/07/23

737 Wendell Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Disa Pratt
Seller: Justine Buckley
Date: 06/09/23

WHATELY

2 Grey Oak Lane
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Stephen J. Hart
Seller: Lauren K. Hnath
Date: 06/01/23

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

47 Clifton Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Mario C. Sotolotto
Seller: Thomas J. Doody
Date: 05/30/23

84 Elizabeth St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: George D. Ward
Seller: Clifford J. Prestia RET
Date: 06/09/23

121 Elm St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Dumitru Moroianu
Seller: Maria L. Breault
Date: 06/06/23

23 Halladay Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Joseph Hannon
Seller: Steven J. Wetmore
Date: 06/01/23

1031 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Behavioral Health Network
Seller: Reubben Fontanez
Date: 06/06/23

7 Morningside Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Chantal M. McGill
Seller: Laura H. Ewing
Date: 06/05/23

71 Norman Ter.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $262,500
Buyer: Justin Clayfield
Seller: Andri Zhyhaniuk
Date: 06/07/23

269 North St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Aaron C. George
Seller: Frances A. Benoit
Date: 06/09/23

127 Silver St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Corey Winiarski
Seller: Diane Guazzaloca
Date: 06/08/23

42 South St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: William Lund
Seller: Heather Whitney
Date: 06/09/23

CHICOPEE

12 Arlmont St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $242,000
Buyer: Dmitriy Petlyakov
Seller: Tsunami RT
Date: 05/31/23

116 Bostwick Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $204,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Steven Mailloux
Date: 06/06/23

57 Bourbeau St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Michael Anderson
Seller: Michele L. Niec
Date: 05/31/23

313 Chicopee St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Sandeep Singh
Seller: Luis S. Sousa
Date: 06/01/23

71 Church St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Ardsley Realty LLC
Seller: Paul J. Shea RET
Date: 05/31/23

52 Clarendon Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $246,500
Buyer: Talal M. Hamad
Seller: Albert A. Lafleur
Date: 06/09/23

110 Cyman Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Our Lady Angels Province
Seller: Roman Catholic Bishop Springfield
Date: 05/31/23

79 Dayton St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Tara K. Tessier
Seller: Henry F. Tessier
Date: 06/01/23

109 Dayton St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $306,000
Buyer: Catherine E. Galster
Seller: Patricia M. Wingate
Date: 06/07/23

574 East St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Armindo P. Machado
Seller: John Garcia
Date: 06/01/23

193 Fairview Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Fnvcs LLC
Seller: Aarya Krishna Two LLC
Date: 06/08/23

521 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Iglesia Pentecostal
Seller: Denise Nowak
Date: 06/02/23

1201 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Vaycheslav Foksha
Seller: Andrey Foksha
Date: 06/08/23

20 Harding St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: Maribel Rivas
Seller: Rene J. Iglesias
Date: 06/09/23

21 Harrington Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Baljit Sharma
Seller: Bernice M. Skorka
Date: 05/31/23

103 Huntington Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Janice F. Legnard TR
Seller: Ethier, Penny A. (Estate)
Date: 06/06/23

25 Hyde Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Nawar S. Tifour
Seller: Joanne M. Marshall
Date: 05/31/23

36 Jackson St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Anastasia Stigers
Seller: Michael A. Ciecko
Date: 06/09/23

22 Lord Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $241,000
Buyer: Malia Homebuyers LLC
Seller: John A. Winiarski
Date: 06/06/23

97 Nash St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Moises Rodriguez
Seller: Daniel Letendre
Date: 06/08/23

79 Olko Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Thomas Gruszkos
Seller: Jeffrey M. Carter
Date: 05/30/23

72 Paradise St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $192,821
Buyer: Edward Cianci
Seller: Lakeview Loan Servicing
Date: 05/30/23

70 Pine St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Van Ly
Seller: Kardon Enterprises LLC
Date: 06/09/23

31 Riverpark Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Jose L. Lopez
Seller: Heriberto Flores
Date: 05/30/23

157 Ruskin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Yanar Albakaa
Seller: Ali S. Younes
Date: 06/01/23

224 School St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $133,755
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Warren J. Smith
Date: 06/05/23

57 Willwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Roberto Rivera-Negron
Seller: Mass Pike LLC
Date: 06/09/23

EAST LONGMEADOW

13 Acorn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jordan L. Cohen
Seller: Dominic Kirchner
Date: 05/31/23

247 Allen St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Nancy M. Wheeler
Seller: Elizabeth Bond
Date: 06/06/23

6 Bayne St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Cara A. Dunn
Seller: Sarah Roos
Date: 06/02/23

18 Bayne St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Karen Amato
Seller: Sandra Wainwright
Date: 06/09/23

119 Colony Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $491,000
Buyer: Robert M. Mack
Seller: Nicholas R. King
Date: 05/31/23

12 Forbes Hill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Jeffrey A. Dalessio
Seller: Feeney Ft
Date: 05/31/23

32 Greenwich Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $451,000
Buyer: Marta A. O’Shea
Seller: Keith K. Noble
Date: 05/30/23

90 Hampden Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Knox Trail RT
Seller: Phillips, Judith A. (Estate)
Date: 06/09/23

40 Kingman Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Lauren B. King
Seller: Laro Albert P. (Estate)
Date: 06/01/23

166 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Christopher Sheehan
Seller: Joseph B. Hutchison
Date: 05/30/23

432 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Olivia Migacz
Seller: Christine Vogel
Date: 06/02/23

19 Powder Hill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Ebrahim N. Ghazali
Seller: Robert T. Roy
Date: 05/30/23

188 Westwood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Nico Santaniello
Seller: Custom Home Development Group LLC
Date: 06/09/23

HAMPDEN

89 Main St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Michael V. Barba
Seller: Jesse Theophilopoulos
Date: 05/31/23

9 Oak Knoll Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Rebecca Leclair
Seller: Linda R. Chabot
Date: 06/07/23

HOLYOKE

4 Dunn Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $252,500
Buyer: Karalaur Properties LLC
Seller: 4 Dunn RT
Date: 06/06/23

753-761 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $888,563
Buyer: Holyoke SF 2 I LLC
Seller: International Immobiliare LLC
Date: 06/09/23

765 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $888,563
Buyer: Holyoke SF 2 I. LLC
Seller: International Immobiliare LLC
Date: 06/09/23

771-773 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $888,563
Buyer: Holyoke SF 2 I. LLC
Seller: International Immobiliare LLC
Date: 06/09/23

232 Elm St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $247,345
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: John R. Treworgy
Date: 06/05/23

44 Hampton Knolls Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Western Mass. Training Consortium
Seller: Abel FT
Date: 05/31/23

3 Hawthorne Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $575,413
Buyer: SM & WMB -Terwillliger
Seller: Elizabeth L. Atkins
Date: 06/08/23

364-366 Hillside Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Rebecca Thomas
Seller: Todd M. McDermott
Date: 06/09/23

34 Knollwood Circle
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Karen L. Blanchard
Seller: Rachid Sidki
Date: 06/09/23

68 Lawler St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Arielle A. Booker
Seller: Wayne Versace
Date: 06/05/23

920 Main St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: SJS Colon Enterprises LLC
Seller: Holyoke River Inc.
Date: 06/09/23

155 Mountain View Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $365,500
Buyer: Bridgette O. Sullivan
Seller: Michael A. Grabowski
Date: 06/06/23

1780 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Nolan
Seller: 1780 Northampton St RET
Date: 05/31/23

167 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Angel G. Franco
Seller: John Gutowski
Date: 06/06/23

15 Rhode Island St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Mark A. Nejame
Seller: Charlotte A. Strong
Date: 06/09/23

LONGMEADOW

51 Belleclaire Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Custom Home Development Group LLC
Seller: David G. Clarke
Date: 05/31/23

88 Briarcliff Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $680,000
Buyer: David Watkins
Seller: Neil B. Epstein
Date: 06/01/23

16 Elmwood Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $379,000
Buyer: Daniel K. Killen
Seller: Marylynn Ireland
Date: 06/01/23

9 Green Willow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: CT Family Homes LLC
Seller: John M. Friedson
Date: 05/31/23

76 Greenacre Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Erik Provost
Seller: Michael A. Drish
Date: 06/06/23

252 Kenmore Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Joel K. Beck
Seller: Jeffrey Magee
Date: 06/02/23

812 Maple Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Angelo P. Dejesus-Dimaano
Seller: Michael Chen
Date: 06/02/23

71 Massachusetts Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $325,500
Buyer: Lisa Garrity
Seller: Mary A. MacDonnell
Date: 06/08/23

180 Meadowbrook Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: Alicia Hanifin
Seller: Steven R. Cartney
Date: 06/06/23

27 Rosemore St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Cecilia Tran
Seller: Jared D. Young
Date: 05/30/23

77 South Park Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Seller: Stephanie Wardrop
Date: 06/01/23

77 South Park Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $352,250
Buyer: Naylor Nation Real Estate LLC
Seller: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Date: 06/09/23

94 South Park Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Sydney Denault
Seller: Elaine Meara
Date: 06/09/23

47 Willow Brook Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $739,900
Buyer: John T. Doherty
Seller: Carlo A. Sarno
Date: 06/01/23

28 Woolworth St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: John F. Dalsey
Seller: Dennis E. Coffey
Date: 06/01/23

LUDLOW

12 Autumn Ridge Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $608,000
Buyer: Kristie A. Ford
Seller: Arthur Ralph G. TR
Date: 06/05/23

10 Birch St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Marie Pecor
Seller: William A. Leblanc
Date: 06/07/23

29-31 Brimfield St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: 29-31 Brimfield St. Ludlow
Seller: Ashley K. Van Eeghen TR
Date: 06/09/23

175 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Dacruz
Seller: Marguerite R. Surprenant
Date: 06/01/23

885 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Gregory Mcneal
Seller: Daniel E. Haluch
Date: 06/02/23

23 Daisy Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: David Martin
Seller: Kristie Burdick
Date: 06/02/23

1068 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Michael Fraga
Seller: Raul G. Fraga
Date: 06/02/23

43 Edgewood Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Edward J. Cauley
Seller: Dianna Douches FT
Date: 05/31/23

4 Fontaine St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Taylor N. Brown
Seller: Mary A. Forni
Date: 06/01/23

171 Kendall St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $317,500
Buyer: Brandon C. Oliveira
Seller: Dnepro Properties LLC
Date: 05/31/23

197 Miller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $389,900
Buyer: James Thompson
Seller: Jill McCarthy-Hill
Date: 05/31/23

46 Reynolds St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $286,500
Buyer: Maranda M. Richardson
Seller: Matthew A. Hill
Date: 05/31/23

285 State St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: TKJM LLC
Seller: 2014 Cachucho FT
Date: 06/05/23

291 State St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: TKJM LLC
Seller: 2014 Cachucho FT
Date: 06/05/23

293 State St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: TKJM LLC
Seller: 2014 Cachucho FT
Date: 06/05/23

83 Stivens Ter.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $314,500
Buyer: Luis A. Rodriguez
Seller: Donald J. Fonner
Date: 06/02/23

8-10 Wedgewood Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Lavigne
Seller: Lawrence F. Army
Date: 06/09/23

191 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Hajer S. Brak
Seller: Partyka Partners LP
Date: 06/01/23

MONSON

48 Brimfield Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Georgianna D. Melendez
Seller: Franco Bruno
Date: 06/05/23

21 Wilbraham Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Jennifer Yekel
Seller: TM Properties Inc.
Date: 06/06/23

MONTGOMERY

75 New State Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $556,000
Buyer: Dallas S. Deogburn
Seller: Joyce E. Lutat
Date: 06/01/23

PALMER

1036 Central St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $324,000
Buyer: Alvaro F. Castillo Dolmo
Seller: BD Construction LLC
Date: 06/01/23

4195 High St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: Pablo De La Rosa
Seller: Karina C. Levesque
Date: 05/30/23

39 Knox St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Jinxiang Ren
Seller: CNC Management LLC
Date: 06/09/23

2006 Oak St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Terri Bigda
Seller: Tyler Bigda
Date: 06/01/23

2018 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Paul Jones
Seller: Robert W. Linehan
Date: 05/31/23

1024 School St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: James V. Coronity
Seller: Coronity, Frances R. (Estate)
Date: 06/06/23

4 Walters Way
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Robert W. Linehan
Seller: Kelly Slate
Date: 05/31/23

SPRINGFIELD

68 Abbott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jesus S. Rivera
Seller: Sheila Coon
Date: 06/02/23

1201 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Roberto Cruz
Seller: Joseph C. Hannon
Date: 06/01/23

16 Amity Court
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Aleah L. Haygood
Seller: Bedrosian, Samuel (Estate)
Date: 06/08/23

41 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Chris M. Rodriguez-Otero
Seller: Waiwai RT
Date: 06/06/23

518-520 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Carlytom Veillard
Seller: Chhath Keo
Date: 06/07/23

22 Audley Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Zachary D. Douville
Seller: Andrea J. Steflano
Date: 05/30/23

97 Avery St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Mayowa A. Samuel
Seller: Torres, Franklyn (Estate)
Date: 06/07/23

323 Bay St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Sebastien Alberi
Seller: Laceyann R. Nelson
Date: 05/30/23

855 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Panther Development LLC
Seller: Angelina M. Cava
Date: 05/31/23

1130 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $1,384,769
Buyer: Car Properties LLC
Seller: Gerald W. Nannen
Date: 06/02/23

32 Bridle Path Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $343,000
Buyer: Kayla Collins
Seller: Patrick Darby
Date: 06/02/23

15 Bronson Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Paul H. Schmelz
Seller: Mahan, Helen Z. (Estate)
Date: 06/02/23

34 Brunswick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: De Leon Holdings LLC
Seller: Joseph Berenkrantz
Date: 06/09/23

20 Burlington St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Wilton P. Veras
Seller: Antonio Calvanese
Date: 06/09/23

160 Canterbury Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $442,000
Buyer: Shawna Motley
Seller: David H. Johnson
Date: 06/01/23

744-746 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Kelnate Realty LLC
Seller: Ajn Rentals LLC
Date: 06/06/23

144 Cherry St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $223,000
Buyer: Carlos E. Benitez
Seller: Vaycheslav Foksha
Date: 05/31/23

138 Colton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Roosevelt Amanfo
Seller: Springfield Ventures RT
Date: 05/31/23

14-16 Commonwealth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Vu Nguyen
Seller: Binh Nguyen
Date: 05/31/23

70 Connecticut Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Yamilette Lopez-Perez
Seller: Thomas J. Gruszkos
Date: 05/30/23

41 Daytona St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Kishana U. Alexander
Seller: Alice Baiyee
Date: 05/31/23

138 Denver St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Carolyn Y. Jackson
Date: 06/05/23

83 Derryfield Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Kevin O’Neil
Seller: Molly M. Burke
Date: 06/08/23

Drake St. (ES)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $1,384,769
Buyer: Car Properties LLC
Seller: Gerald W. Nannen
Date: 06/02/23

18 Druid Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Karidys Cabrera
Seller: Andrew P. Johnson
Date: 06/06/23

23 Eldert St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Ahearn
Seller: Federal National Mortgage Association
Date: 06/06/23

175 Fiberloid St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Joseph L. Torres
Seller: Brianna L. Bretta
Date: 05/31/23

76 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Elvis Presinal
Seller: Jose D. Juarez
Date: 06/08/23

158 Gilbert Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Edwan Alzuhairi
Seller: Henri J. Desplaines
Date: 06/09/23

55 Gralia Dr.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $290,200
Buyer: Devon Wilkerson
Seller: Jake T. Belanger
Date: 05/31/23

21 Hampden St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Flowers Real Estate LLC
Seller: 21-23 Hampden Street Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

23 Hampden St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Flowers Real Estate LLC
Seller: 21-23 Hampden Street Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

53 Homestead Ave.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $133,000
Buyer: Northeast Asset Mgmt. LLC
Seller: Donald S. Young
Date: 06/06/23

18 Hunter Place
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Lester C. McDonald
Date: 06/05/23

65-67 Joseph St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Lemuel J. Suriel
Seller: Christine H. Lazarus
Date: 05/30/23

137 Kimberly Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Anthony J. Hernandez
Seller: Antonio Hernandez
Date: 06/02/23

34 Kopernick St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Campagnari Construction LLC
Seller: Roman Catholic Bishop Springfield
Date: 06/02/23

102 Larkspur St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Matthew Ward
Seller: Patrick M. McCarthy
Date: 06/05/23

34-36 Leete St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Justo Pagan
Seller: Luis Galarza
Date: 06/02/23

25 Lively Lane
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Erin Orourke
Seller: Jamar J. Croxen
Date: 05/30/23

236-240 Locust St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $1,371,433
Buyer: Holyoke SF 2 I LLC
Seller: IMS Realty Corp.
Date: 06/09/23

45 Loring St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $293,000
Buyer: Williana Fede
Seller: AAD LLC
Date: 06/08/23

30 Louis Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Eric S. Story
Seller: Audrey H. Piubeni
Date: 06/08/23

45 Lyman St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: 45 Lyman St. Investor LLC
Seller: 45 Lyman Street LLC
Date: 06/07/23

46-48 Malden St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $366,000
Buyer: Marcos Urena
Seller: Fad Investment Group Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

76 Maple St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Umigel R. Sanchez
Seller: Vito C. Resto
Date: 05/31/23

78 Maple St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Samuel B. Sharpe
Seller: Vito C. Resto
Date: 05/30/23

82 Marengo Park
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Magalie Guerrier
Seller: 82 Marengo Park LLC
Date: 06/07/23

23 Mary St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Richton & Wynne LLC
Seller: John M. Friedson
Date: 06/01/23

18-20 Medford St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Daniel Defoe
Seller: Home LLC
Date: 06/02/23

79 Newhouse St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Thao Phan
Seller: Joseph E. Luna-Torres
Date: 05/31/23

372-374 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Dora Y. Morales
Seller: Van Ly
Date: 06/08/23

38 Oxford St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: Nicholas P. Sears
Seller: Joan M. Seelig RET
Date: 05/30/23

42-44 Palmer Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jakeen Preston
Seller: Irma Calvillo
Date: 05/31/23

605 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Charlette E. Gentry
Seller: Foy, James H. (Estate)
Date: 06/08/23

34 Pearl St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Faith United Corp.
Seller: S. K. RT
Date: 05/31/23

37 Pembroke St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Teresa M. Vacca
Seller: Ibrahim Aljashaam
Date: 06/02/23

116 Piedmont St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $253,000
Buyer: Edilio R. Rodriguez Lopez
Seller: Carranza, Marian Leona (Estate)
Date: 05/31/23

278 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Foley Capital LLC
Seller: Segel, Ina Sara (Estate)
Date: 06/02/23

35 Powell Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Darlenys L. Gonzalez
Seller: Yamilex Vega
Date: 06/01/23

145 Powell Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $297,000
Buyer: Wakeish Bryan
Seller: Northeast Asset Mgmt. LLC
Date: 06/09/23

288 Quincy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Flora Hernandez
Seller: KMAK LLC
Date: 05/31/23

33-35 Rittenhouse Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Ana Hernandez
Seller: Viettrung Dang
Date: 06/07/23

5 Rose Place
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Edgewood Beach LLC
Seller: Edward F. Corcoran RET
Date: 05/31/23

145 Samuel St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Angelica Rivera
Seller: Gilbert Rodriguez
Date: 06/06/23

222 Spikenard Cir.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Troy Remillard
Seller: Jeremiah A. Begley
Date: 06/09/23

11-15 Standish St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Reubben Fontanez
Seller: Aida Garcia
Date: 06/06/23

1219 State St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: LSH Investment LLC
Seller: Maria Vanegas
Date: 06/09/23

80 Steuben St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Richton & Wynne LLC
Seller: Guadalupz M. Friedson
Date: 05/30/23

31 Thompson St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Sathina Brooks
Seller: Good Living Property LLC
Date: 06/06/23

393 Tiffany St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Rolando Melendez
Seller: Obrien, Claire A. (Estate)
Date: 06/09/23

110 Treetop Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Christine H. Lazarus
Seller: Nelson Santos
Date: 05/30/23

28 Van Buren Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Dylan Wade
Seller: Strategic Homes Inc.
Date: 06/09/23

15 Warriner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Visionary Homes LLC
Seller: Eric T. Hillman
Date: 06/08/23

303-305 Water St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Jennyfer Torres
Seller: Targaryen RT
Date: 06/05/23

68 Whittier St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Christopher L. Rodriguez
Seller: Holly L. Williams
Date: 05/31/23

30 Winnipeg St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Dreamwake Homes Inc.
Seller: B9 Industries Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

205 Winton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Lissette Grimaldi
Seller: Secretary of Veterans Affairs
Date: 06/06/23

24-26 Wolcott St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Juan C. Crespo
Seller: Trentan S. Williams
Date: 06/02/23

SOUTHWICK

17 Gargon Ter.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Justin M. Herbert
Date: 06/05/23

13 Great Brook Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Daniel T. Meggison
Seller: Elizabeth J. Fiore
Date: 05/31/23

46 North Longyard Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Preston F. Haynes-Bruno
Seller: Joseph F. Baltronis
Date: 06/07/23

WALES

42 Main St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $419,150
Buyer: Marlisa R. Miller
Seller: Susan K. Gagne
Date: 06/07/23

87 Main St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $122,000
Buyer: Phyllis Guerrier
Seller: William Deforge
Date: 06/05/23

31 Stafford Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Paul Skvirsky
Seller: Lawrence F. Army
Date: 06/07/23

WEST SPRINGFIELD

34 Belle Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Skyspec LLC
Seller: No Limit Assets LLC
Date: 06/06/23

454 Birnie Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Danielle A. Brown
Seller: Chad W. Chapman
Date: 06/01/23

117 Bridle Path Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Tiberiu Poshtaru
Seller: James Labranche
Date: 05/30/23

97 Buckingham Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Megan Barcomb
Seller: Jane Chapman
Date: 06/02/23

42 George St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Lawrence R. Phillips
Seller: Laurie M. Phillips
Date: 05/31/23

29-31 Merrick St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Ahmed Aswad
Seller: RCD 2 Acquisition TR
Date: 06/07/23

54 Norman St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Palpum Raw LLC
Seller: CWABS Inc.
Date: 06/06/23

65 Ohio Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Christy Szafranski
Seller: Pedro L. Ruiz-Montes
Date: 06/02/23

64 Upper Beverly Hills
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Corey Belcher
Seller: Deborah A. Kelmel
Date: 06/09/23

WESTFIELD

36 Bailey Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Sergey Nikitchuk
Seller: Ilya Khotsin
Date: 05/31/23

36 Belleview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Rebecca Waite
Seller: Neylon, Elizabeth A. (Estate)
Date: 06/02/23

63 Beverly Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Evan Fontaine
Seller: Daya Darjee
Date: 05/30/23

39 Birchwood Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Lidia Rodriguez
Seller: Sue A. Chojnowski
Date: 06/09/23

36 Bowdoin St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $372,600
Buyer: Emily Crowe
Seller: Cara A. Merriam
Date: 06/02/23

244 City View Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Laurent Dufault
Seller: Dolinski, David M. (Estate)
Date: 05/31/23

11 Harrison Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Jesenia E. Marquez
Seller: Sherry L. Gallese
Date: 06/05/23

3 Hillcrest Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $378,000
Buyer: Michelle L. Colina
Seller: Marc Franceschet
Date: 06/09/23

8 Joyce Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $124,000
Buyer: Susan M. Hoskin
Seller: Hoskin, William R. (Estate)
Date: 06/02/23

227 Old County Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Kyle Callender
Seller: City Of Westfield
Date: 06/07/23

11 Sunbriar Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Amer Jasem
Seller: Ptaszek, Bette A. (Estate)
Date: 06/07/23

64 Westwood Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: William E. Terry
Seller: Stephen H. Irving
Date: 06/09/23

WILBRAHAM

1 Conifer Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Michael Tetreault
Seller: Claudia E. Considine
Date: 05/31/23

3 Danforth Farm Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: David L. Joyce
Seller: Dan Roulier & Assocs. Inc.
Date: 06/07/23

408 Dipping Hole Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Nicole A. Lapointe
Seller: Walter C. Dansereau
Date: 05/30/23

20 Joan St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Jovanie Ortiz
Seller: Setnes, Ann A. (Estate)
Date: 06/09/23

122 Manchonis Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: HRD Holdings LLC
Seller: Gary R. Desrosiers
Date: 06/09/23

11 Southwood Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Megan Kuszewski
Seller: David J. O’Brien
Date: 06/05/23

1220 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: John Montoya
Seller: Broderick Jr., John M. (Estate)
Date: 06/06/23

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

2 Campbell Court
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $585,000
Buyer: Jiaqing Wu
Seller: Harriet Pollatsek
Date: 06/09/23

167 Glendale Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $465,500
Buyer: Raymond G. Hamel 2020 TR
Seller: Daniel Cook
Date: 05/30/23

202 Harkness Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $505,000
Buyer: New Directions
Seller: Hawkness Road TR
Date: 05/31/23

19 Harlow Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Wiley Dole
Seller: Justin Ching
Date: 06/05/23

44 Jeffrey Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: 44 Jeffrey Lane LLC
Seller: Robert A. Snope
Date: 06/07/23

41 Leverett Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: SNJ Properties LLC
Seller: Wright, Elizabeth M. (Estate)
Date: 05/31/23

694 Main St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Bch Realty LLC
Seller: Virginia B. Jackson
Date: 06/01/23

374 North Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $591,964
Buyer: West Range Amherst LLC
Seller: Theta Mu Housing Corp.
Date: 06/06/23

17 Orchard St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Trustees Of Amherst College
Seller: American Structured TR
Date: 06/09/23

16 Stagecoach Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $580,000
Buyer: Mia E. Martin
Seller: Janice D. Ratner
Date: 06/09/23

BELCHERTOWN

46 Azalea Way
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Eric Reda
Seller: David J. Popowich
Date: 05/31/23

8 Diane Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Robert H. Adair
Seller: Diane M. Lemire
Date: 06/01/23

121 Franklin St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Nicholas North
Seller: Expedio Group LLC
Date: 06/09/23

31 Fuller St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Shannon Fields
Seller: Danielle M. Dushane
Date: 06/02/23

8 Howe St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $409,000
Buyer: Robin Tutt
Seller: George R. Synan
Date: 05/30/23

223 North Liberty St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $392,000
Buyer: Mudather Y. Abdelrahman
Seller: George N. Ngugi
Date: 06/01/23

174 Old Enfield Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Julianne Jablonski
Seller: Pamela R. Korzeniewski
Date: 06/02/23

116 Pine St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $501,900
Buyer: Timothy P. Hitchens
Seller: Thomas A. Slonka
Date: 06/05/23

56 Sabin St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Edward A. Fuller
Seller: Phyllis Ferriter
Date: 05/31/23

297 Stebbins St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Stephen Gaughan
Seller: Ryan M. Partridge
Date: 06/05/23

31 Sycamore Circle
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $564,900
Buyer: Danielle Gianino
Seller: JN Duquette & Son Construction
Date: 06/09/23

EASTHAMPTON

5 Dragon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $526,500
Buyer: Andrea D. Jontos
Seller: Elizabeth McEneaney
Date: 06/09/23

18 Knight Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $476,000
Buyer: Marcela M. Papariley
Seller: Michael H. Wayne
Date: 06/02/23

39 Pine Hill Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $467,500
Buyer: Melahat S. Ipekci
Seller: Kam C. Boon
Date: 05/31/23

GRANBY

119 Morgan St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $505,000
Buyer: Christie A. Grabherr
Seller: Kimberley J. Kibbie
Date: 06/07/23

Philip Circle
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Michelle N. Walkowiak
Seller: Danny Cropanese
Date: 06/09/23

HADLEY

7 Lawrence Plain Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Erik Drumgool
Seller: Edward J. Kosakowski
Date: 06/09/23

Middle St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $153,500
Buyer: Simak Properties Inc.
Seller: Lynne K. Edwards
Date: 05/31/23

234 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $2,520,000
Buyer: M-M2 Holdings LLC
Seller: Vidoc Corp.
Date: 05/31/23

347 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $2,196,867
Buyer: Car Properties LLC
Seller: Real Estate Oil Change LLC
Date: 06/02/23

8 West St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $813,000
Buyer: Richard H. Rudolph
Seller: Peter R. Root
Date: 05/31/23

HATFIELD

3 Primrose Path
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Josef Barszcz
Seller: Stephen P. Gaughan
Date: 06/05/23

HUNTINGTON

3 Pleasant St.
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $282,500
Buyer: Sara Carrier
Seller: Robin D. Hendrix
Date: 06/08/23

NORTHAMPTON

15 Dickinson St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $567,000
Buyer: Brooke Adams
Seller: Adb-2 Properties LLC
Date: 06/02/23

77 Glendale Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Tomroc Holdings LLC
Seller: Susan M. Hathaway
Date: 06/01/23

237 Glendale Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $569,000
Buyer: Kelly R. Baxter
Seller: MS Homes LLC
Date: 06/09/23

64 Greenleaf Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $1,175,000
Buyer: Jamaa Family Realty NT
Seller: Jennifer W. Eremeeva
Date: 06/07/23

26 Northern Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Sovereign Builders Inc.
Seller: Living City Properties Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

56 Northern Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Sovereign Builders Inc.
Seller: Northern Avenue Homes Inc.
Date: 06/01/23

297 Riverside Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $780,000
Buyer: James G. Wilson
Seller: Nu-Way Homes Inc.
Date: 06/09/23

8 View Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Sovereign Builders Inc.
Seller: Tofino Associates LLC
Date: 06/01/23

42 Walnut St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Aaron Knapp
Seller: Karl E. Knapp
Date: 06/01/23

PELHAM

10 Bray Ctourt
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Sharon L. Schuster
Seller: Karen E. Ribeiro
Date: 06/01/23

11 Bray Court
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $459,500
Buyer: John Johansen
Seller: Alan S. Task
Date: 05/31/23

28 Butterhill Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $612,000
Buyer: Pookles NT
Seller: Thomas P. Moliterno
Date: 06/08/23

PLAINFIELD

106 Pleasant St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Jedediah Smith
Seller: Richard G. Smith
Date: 06/01/23

SOUTH HADLEY

70 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Lisa F. Iglesias
Seller: Kristen E. Georgia
Date: 06/08/23

22 Ashton Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Amanda Neikirk
Seller: M. C. Schwartzer TR
Date: 06/09/23

57 High St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Paul L. Legare
Seller: Donald T. Legare
Date: 06/05/23

2 Hillcrest Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: William E. Noland
Seller: Bernice J. McNiff
Date: 06/07/23

203 Lathrop St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Christine A. Piekarski
Seller: Rebecca J. Leclair
Date: 06/07/23

29 Searle Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Benjamin Carlson-Sypek
Seller: Kathryn Peverley
Date: 06/09/23

44 Spring St., Ext.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Patrick M. Greaney
Seller: Marek Strojvus
Date: 06/09/23

SOUTHAMPTON

26 Montgomery Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Pamela Gois
Seller: David L. Law
Date: 06/02/23

144 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $377,500
Buyer: Benjamin A. Graham
Seller: Kathleen M. McBride
Date: 06/07/23

227 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Hunter R. Laurin
Seller: Ronald H. Laurin
Date: 05/31/23

WARE

9 Castle St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Jeff Lovely
Seller: Adilson Lima
Date: 06/05/23

16 Church St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Ramon Olan
Seller: Patricia A. Wilmot
Date: 06/01/23

16 Clifford Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Destiny L. Alvarado
Seller: Martin H. Greany
Date: 05/31/23

2 High Meadow Lane
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $436,500
Buyer: Michael Aiesi
Seller: Jody Stankiewicz
Date: 05/31/23

180 Monson Turnpike Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Michael Cleveland
Seller: Scott Finne
Date: 06/09/23

152 North St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $317,000
Buyer: Jonathan Mahoney
Seller: Michael P. Aiesi
Date: 05/31/23

9 Richfield Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Ronald Cooney
Seller: Darryl A. Goudreau
Date: 05/31/23

Webster Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Topwits Inc.
Seller: Cynthia Turek
Date: 06/09/23

WORTHINGTON

91 Radiker Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $359,000
Buyer: Cold Creek Farm LLC
Seller: Melissa A. Celli
Date: 06/01/23

213 Williamsburg Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Dana Greene
Seller: Joseph Horning
Date: 06/02/23

Building Permits

By BusinessWest Staff July 5, 2023

Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of June 2023.

CHICOPEE

Chicopee Falls Polish Home
27 Grove St.
$6,000 — Roofing

Chicopee Provision Co. Inc.
19 Sitarz Ave.
$162,656.04 — Repair exterior wall, repair roof to new exterior wall

SRF LLC
1345 Burnett Road
$9,000 — Reside exterior of building

HADLEY

Walter Czajkowski
135 Mt. Warner Road
N/A — Install rooftop solar array

Research Park LP
100 Venture Way
N/A — Demolish five walls, install new office doors and entrance doors

LENOX

Randall Grimmett
169 Undermountain Road
$35,880 — Reside back portion of barn

NORTHAMPTON

6 Crafts Avenue LLC
202 Main St.
$1,500 — Reface sign for Animal Instincts

ALD Noho LLC
271 Main St.
$2,000 — Non-illuminated sign for Mexicalito Taco Bar

Christ United Methodist Church
271 Rocky Hill Road
$10,000 — Illuminated ground sign

City of Northampton
20 Florence St.
$20,341 — Insulation and weatherization

City of Northampton
42 Gothic St.
$7,288 — Insulation and weatherization

City of Northampton
274 Main St.
$5,711 — Insulation and weatherization

City of Northampton
265 Prospect St.
$9,000 — Powerwash, repair, and apply GacoFlex

City of Northampton
20 West St.
$44,746 — Insulation and weatherization

Herrick Mill LLC
1 Short St.
$48,900 — Convert office space to apartment

NIS Building LLC
109 Main St.
$6,500 — Repair front steps

Smith College
20 Elm St.
$3,943,039 — Roofing on Smith College Museum of Art and Hillyer Hall

Smith College
186 Elm Street
$337,415 — Rebuild existing masonry, exterior staircase

PITTSFIELD

The Clock Tower Associates Inc.
75 South Church St.
$35,500 — New walls, doors, finishes, and kitchen sink

The Clock Tower Associates Inc.
75 South Church St.
$21,000 — Install partition walls and new doors for tenant renovation

Tian Fang
119 Elm St.
$13,986 — Roofing

Four Forty Nord Strasse LLC
436 North St.
$2,000 — Passageway between two units

Pittsfield Community Music School Inc.
30 Wendell Ave.
$20,000 — Roofing

SPRINGFIELD

City of Springfield
1395 Allen St.
$1,734,000 — Install replacement windows and doors with adjacent finishes at Arthur T. Talmadge Elementary School

City of Springfield
120 Ashland Ave.
$2,053,000 — Install replacement windows and doors, adjacent stone panels, and alter two bathrooms into one at Alfred M. Glickman Elementary School

City of Springfield
52 Rosewell Blvd.
$1,567,000 — Install replacement exterior windows and doors at Thomas M. Balliet Elementary School

City of Springfield
91 School St.
$1,423,000 — Install replacement windows and doors at Parent and Community Engagement Center

J&N Salema Family LP
350 Cottage St.
$280,000 — Alter interior space and exterior façade at Dunkin’ Donuts

Miles Morgan LLC
106 Lincoln St.
$7,000 — Repair two support columns and header on rear fire escape

Penelope LLC
785 Page Blvd.
$48,350 — Alter interior space for use change from business to mercantile

Springfield Investors LLC
1105 Boston Road
$6,500 — Erect new storage area partition to sale area and DBI doors

Springfield Museums Corp.
95 Chestnut St.
$16,319 — Install fire alarm

UMass Amherst, Town of Hadley Sign New Cooperation Agreement

By BusinessWest Staff July 3, 2023

Daily News

AMHERST — The town of Hadley and UMass Amherst have signed a new strategic partnership agreement emphasizing open communication and joint efforts to deal with mutual challenges and opportunities.

The agreement, effective July 1, 2022 to June 30, 2027, includes an annual $85,000 payment to Hadley to support community needs identified as community concerns through its planning processes, town meeting, or other areas.

The agreement calls for annual meetings between the UMass Amherst chancellor and town officials, and regular meetings between the University Relations staff and the town administrator and other town officials, to communicate information of mutual concern.

“The university deeply values its relationship with the town of Hadley, and I am pleased that, with this agreement, we will continue to work together on issues of mutual interest,” Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy said.

Hadley Select Board member Molly Keegan added that “the university is an important partner to the town of Hadley, and we value that relationship. We will continue to look for opportunities to collaborate in everyone’s best interests.”

This agreement extends and affirms the commitment by the university and the town to pursue economic-development opportunities, particularly around student needs and university research. The university will continue to offer the town partnership opportunities with faculty and projects that help assess economic impact.

The parties also agreed to work together to mitigate the effects of Route 9 traffic, share information on long-range planning, and explore issues of available and affordable housing for students, staff, and families relocating to the area.

Western New England University Small Business Legal Clinic Accepting Applications

By BusinessWest Staff July 3, 2023

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Western New England University Small Business Legal Clinic is accepting applications from entrepreneurs and small-business owners seeking legal assistance for the fall 2023 semester.

Under faculty supervision, law students assist clients with legal issues, including choice of entity, employment policies, contract drafting, regulatory compliance, and intellectual property issues relating to trademark applications and copyright.

This is a free service available to local businesses that might not have the resources to obtain such services otherwise. The clinic has assisted more than 500 small businesses since it opened.

“The clinic is a great resource for entrepreneurs who lack the finances to retain an attorney,” Associate Clinical Professor of Law Robert Statchen said. “By using the clinic’s services, businesses can avoid problems by getting legal issues addressed early and correctly. It also provides students with a great opportunity to get real-world experience.”

Click here for more information or to complete an online application. The clinic requests that small-business owners submit their applications by Tuesday, Aug. 15. Applications received after that date will be considered if additional resources are available.

Students will begin providing services in mid-September. For more information, call the Legal Clinic at (413) 782-1469 or email Marie Fletcher, Clinical Programs administrator, at [email protected].

Mandati Jewelers Opens at Holyoke Mall

By BusinessWest Staff July 3, 2023

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Family-owned Mandati Jewelers celebrated its grand opening at Holyoke Mall on June 28 on the shopping center’s lower level near Center Court. The 2,423-square-foot space is the custom jeweler’s first Massachusetts location.

“We are so grateful to have Mandati Jewelers investing in Holyoke, investing in the Holyoke Mall, and providing luxury jewelry to the Greater Holyoke community,” said Jordan Hart, executive director of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce.

Mandati specializes in certified diamonds, watch and timepiece brands, necklaces, charms, and other fine jewelry. The store is offering 30% to 50% off gold and diamonds and 25% off watches through July 31.

The New York jeweler’s custom jewelry clientele includes Buffalo Bills defensive end Carlos “Boogie” Basham Jr. and rappers Conway the Machine, Westside Gunn, and Benny the Butcher. Holyoke Mall is Mandati’s fourth store and joins locations in Albany, Buffalo, and Syracuse.

Nominations Sought for Healthcare Heroes Class of 2023

By BusinessWest Staff July 3, 2023

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — In the spring of 2017, BusinessWest and its sister publication, the Healthcare News, created a new and exciting recognition program called Healthcare Heroes.

It was launched with the theory that there are heroes working all across this region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare sector, and that there was no shortage of fascinating stories to tell and individuals and groups to honor. That theory has certainly been validated.

But there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of heroes whose stories we still need to tell. And that’s where you come in.

Nominations for the class of 2023 are due Saturday, July 29, and we encourage you to get involved and help recognize someone you consider to be a hero in the community we call Western Mass. in one (or more) of these seven categories:

• Patient/Resident/Client Care Provider;
• Health/Wellness Administrator/Administration;
• Emerging Leader;
• Community Health;
• Innovation in Health/Wellness;
• Collaboration in Health/Wellness; and
• Lifetime Achievement.

Nominations can be submitted at businesswest.com/healthcare-heroes/nominations.

For more information, call Melissa Hallock, Marketing and Events Director, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

BusinessTalk with Hubert Benitez, president of American International College

By BusinessWest Staff July 3, 2023

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 169: July 3, 2023

BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Hubert Benitez, president of American International College

Colleges are in many ways at a crossroads, emerging from the pandemic years but still battling long-term trends toward fewer applications and heightened competition. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Hubert Benitez, president of American International College, about that institution’s holistic approach to standing out in a crowd, one that prioritizes not only academics, but also campus culture and a sense of belonging, as well as connections with the community on workforce-development efforts aimed at strengthening the region’s economy and keeping graduates here. It’s must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

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Healey-Driscoll Administration Issues Joint Statement Following SCOTUS Decision

By BusinessWest Staff June 30, 2023

Daily News

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration, along with about 100 Massachusetts higher-education leaders, civil-rights advocates, elected officials, and organizations dedicated to equity, issued the following statement regarding the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in two higher-education admissions cases, Students for Fair Admissions Inc. v. President & Fellows of Harvard College and Students for Fair Admissions Inc. v. University of North Carolina:

“Massachusetts will always be welcoming and inclusive of students of color and students historically underrepresented in higher education. Today’s Supreme Court decision overturns decades of settled law. In the Commonwealth, our values and our commitment to progress and continued representation in education remain unshakable.

“We will continue to break down barriers to higher education so that all students see themselves represented in both our public and private campus communities. Massachusetts, the home of the first public school and first university, will lead the way in championing access, equity, and inclusion in education.

“We want to make sure that students of color, LGBTQ+ students, first-generation students, and all students historically underrepresented in higher education feel welcomed and valued at our colleges and universities. Today’s decision, while disappointing, will not change our commitment to these students. We have an imperative to make sure our schools reflect our communities. Our academic competitiveness, the future of our workforce, and our commitment to equity demand we take action.”

ISO New England Elects 2023 Board Slate

By BusinessWest Staff June 30, 2023

Daily News

HOLYOKE —ISO New England, the operator of the region’s bulk power system and wholesale electricity marketplace, announced the election of its 2023 board of directors slate.

The slate includes new member Craig Ivey, retired president of Consolidated Edison Co. of New York Inc., who brings three decades of experience in the electricity industry. His three-year term will begin on Oct. 1.

Current board members Brook Colangelo and Mark Vannoy have been reelected to their third and second terms, respectively. Roberto Denis will retire from the board this fall.

“Craig brings extensive expertise in utility operations and a commitment to innovation to the ISO New England Board of Directors,” ISO New England President and CEO Gordon van Welie said. “His knowledge will support our mission of ensuring a reliable and efficient regional grid throughout the clean-energy transition.”

Ivey served as president of Consolidated Edison Co. of New York Inc. for nine years, retiring in 2017. While in this role, he was responsible for all aspects of the electric system that serves more than 9 million New Yorkers. He previously spent 25 years at Dominion Energy, rising through the ranks from a part-time position during his college years to become senior vice president of Transmission and Distribution.

Ivey serves on the board for Ameren Corp., as well as the Fresh Air Fund, a nonprofit serving children in low-income communities in New York City. He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from North Carolina State University and has completed executive-education programs at the University of Michigan and Harvard University.

Colangelo, elected to his third and final term, is vice president and chief information officer for Waters Corp. Earlier in his career, he served as chief information officer of the White House under President Obama. He holds a bachelor’s degree from George Washington University.

Vannoy joined the ISO board in 2020 and was re-elected to a second term. He is currently president of Maine Water and previously served as the chairperson of the Maine Public Utilities Commission. He is a retired U.S. Navy officer, a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, and holds a master’s degree from Cornell University.

The Dowd Agencies Supports Area Charities as 125th-anniversary Celebration Continues

By BusinessWest Staff June 30, 2023

Daily News

HOLYOKE — The Dowd Insurance Agencies, LLC, a leading insurance provider serving New England since 1898, has donated a total of $3,250 to five charities since the beginning of the year as it celebrates its 125th anniversary.

“One of the ways we are celebrating this milestone anniversary is by donating to charities that our employees support and believe in. We will do this throughout the year on a monthly basis. It is our way of saying ‘thank you’ to the community that has supported us for 125 years,” said John Dowd Jr., president and CEO of the Dowd Agencies. “We are proud of our long legacy and extremely humbled by the trust residents and businesses have placed in us for well over a century.”

Charities were determined by polling employees. So far in 2023, the Dowd Agencies donated to the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants wishes for children diagnosed with critical illnesses; Community Music School of Springfield, which provides arts education to local students; Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Holyoke, which provides horseback riding to children and adults with disabilities; Shriners Children’s, which provides critical medical care to children; and Homework House Inc., in Holyoke, which provides free tutoring and mentoring for children living in disadvantaged neighborhoods.

The Dowd Agencies will continue to donate to charities selected by its employees throughout the remainder of the year.

Goddard House Welcomes WSU President Linda Thompson to Board of Trustees

By BusinessWest Staff June 30, 2023

Daily News

WESTFIELD — Linda Thompson, President of Westfield State University, has joined the board of trustees at Goddard House Assisted Living in Brookline.

Prior to her role as president of Westfield State University, Thompson held the role of dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences at UMass Boston. She has an extensive background in healthcare leadership and public policy. In Baltimore City, Md., she served as director of Occupational Medicine and Safety and developed programs and policies to promote the health of the city workforce, including the implementation of policies for HIV prevention and substance use and abuse. At the state level in Maryland, she served as special secretary of Children, Youth and Families, where she developed programs and policies to improve quality of care for vulnerable populations of children.

Thompson draws parallels between her service at Westfield State University and Goddard House’s mission. “While we may serve different generations, our goals are closely aligned,” she explained. “Maintaining compassion and respect for others while nurturing collaboration, creating innovative methods to solve contemporary challenges, and embracing transparency while rewarding excellence are noble practices that serve all of humanity.”

Goddard House embraces the aging experience for seniors living in the Boston area by operating a high-quality assisted-living community and by creating innovative programs which support the need for purpose, engagement, autonomy, and choice as people age.

“The Goddard House board is very fortunate to gain Linda’s extensive experience and unique perspective,” said Alexandra Schweitzer, board chair. “Her dedication and expertise in public-health advocacy and delivering high-quality care is remarkable and aligns with the core values we share at Goddard House.”

Town of Amherst, UMass Amherst Announce New Strategic Partnership Agreement

By BusinessWest Staff June 29, 2023

Daily News

AMHERST — The town of Amherst and UMass Amherst announced a multi-year strategic partnership agreement recognizing the shared interests and responsibilities of the town and the university. The total value of university contributions to the town over the five-year agreement is $5.5 million, nearly double the university’s previous investment.

“For the past decade, I have had the pleasure of calling Amherst home. I am happy that, as I prepare to depart, we are able to finalize this strategic partnership agreement,” Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy said. “The university and the town have always worked closely together, and this agreement will serve to strengthen our partnership in the years to come so that Amherst remains as one of the top college towns in America.”

Added Town Manager Paul Bockelman, “after many months of frank and fruitful discussions, I am very pleased that we have a new agreement. The town and the university meet regularly and work well together. I especially want to recognize Chancellor Subbaswamy, who has been committed to completing this agreement, which recognizes the important role the university plays in the town.”

The agreement includes a significant increase in the university’s support for fire and ambulance services, including the purchase of a new ambulance, yearly support toward town services to promote safe and healthy neighborhoods, and an increase in the university’s annual contribution to support the education of K-12 students residing in university-owned housing.

Key elements to the agreement include $3.5 million ($700,000 annually) for fire and ambulance services, $400,000 ($100,000 annually beginning in FY24) toward town services that support safe and healthy neighborhoods; and $1 million ($200,000 annually) into the town’s public schools to support the education of K-12 students residing in university-owned, tax-exempt housing. The university will also pay $125,000 ($25,000 annually) to support other services provided by the town.

One-time payments by the university include the purchase of a new ambulance for the town valued at $400,000, a $50,000 investment — to be matched by the town — to fund economic development, and university funding up to $65,000 for a pedestrian safety study along the town-owned North Pleasant Street corridor that bisects the campus.

In addition, the university will continue to provide funding equal to that of a 6% lodging fee for each occupied room per night at Hotel UMass (excluding rooms paid for by university accounts), which amounted to approximately $120,000 in FY22. The university will also continue to pay the town for licenses, fees, and services, including water and sewer service, which last year totaled more than $3.4 million.

The new partnership agreement marks the sixth time the town and university have entered into an accord, dating back to 1995. The new agreement is retroactive to July 1, 2022 and extends through June 30, 2027.

In the spirit of the strong and long-established town-gown partnership, the agreement commits town and campus leadership to continued and enhanced cooperation around planning, housing, economic development, and public infrastructure, and memorializes the frequency and salient topics being addressed. Also, the university and town pledge to continue to work together on conservation, sustainability, and resiliency efforts and the responsible stewardship of the local environment and natural resources, including strategies around water conservation and wastewater effluent use.

“This agreement is an important step in recognizing our shared needs and concerns and sets an exciting new standard for our relationship going forward,” Bockelman said.

Added Subbaswamy, “in any town-gown relationship, there are bound to be ups and downs. But we know we are better when we work together. This agreement shows that we are both confident about the relationship and our future shared successes.”

National Grid Awards $800,000 to Eight Chambers in Support of Small Businesses

By BusinessWest Staff June 29, 2023

Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — National Grid announced it will donate $800,000 to eight chambers of commerce in Massachusetts to support local small businesses. The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce has been named one of the recipients of a $100,000 award.

Each chamber will receive $100,000, which they will then distribute in grants of $1,000 to National Grid small-business customers with fewer than 150 employees. The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce looks forward to distributing these grant awards to give local small business community a boost during the coming months. Qualifying businesses can apply for a $1,000 grant by clicking here.

This pledge follows a similar donation by National Grid in January, when the company distributed $1 million to four small-business organizations to help with energy bills. The Black Economic Council of Massachusetts, the Retailers Assoc. of Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Restaurant Assoc., and the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce each received $250,000 to distribute to their small business members.

“After seeing the positive benefit our previous grant-funding effort had on the small-business community of Massachusetts, we decided to expand that reach by partnering with additional chambers of commerce,” said Stephen Woerner, president of National Grid New England. “Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, providing jobs and supporting the vibrancy of communities across Massachusetts. We’re pleased to be able to support those businesses that continue to need help as everyone continues to adjust to higher costs for basic goods and services.”

Chambers receiving the funds include the Cape Cod Chamber, Merrimack Valley Chamber, North Central Chamber of Leominster, Greater Northampton Chamber, North Shore Chamber, OneSouthCoast Chamber, South Shore Chamber, and Waltham Chamber.

“We are grateful for National Grid’s generosity and support of small businesses,” said Vince Jackson, executive director of the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. “We are equally appreciative to be among the chambers selected to award these grants that will deliver much-needed relief in Northampton and the surrounding area.”

This second round of funding comes as part of National Grid’s ongoing commitment to uplifting the well-being of small-business owners and entrepreneurs in Massachusetts. Previously part of its Customer Savings Initiative, National Grid has expanded upon its ‘season of giving’ with renewed customer-assistance efforts. Since October 2022, the utility has donated $3.8 million.

Country Bank Recognizes Crystal Mansfield as President’s Platinum Recipient

By BusinessWest Staff June 29, 2023

Daily News

WARE — Country Bank announced the recipient of the 2023 President’s Platinum Award. The Bank’s recognition program, Above and Beyond, encourages team members to look for co-workers who embody the bank’s corporate values of integrity, service, teamwork, excellence, and prosperity (iSTEP). Within this program, members can receive different levels of recognition: Silver Spotlight, Gold Star, and the President’s Platinum.

“Country Bank’s team members contribute to the bank’s success in many ways throughout the year, and we are delighted to celebrate their contributions,” Country Bank President and CEO Paul Scully said. “The 2023 President’s Platinum award was presented to Crystal Mansfield, Customer Experience and Sales Support specialist. Crystal embodies the bank’s corporate values in every interaction she has. In addition, her nominator recognized her contributions to the organization, customers, and co-workers. The Country Bank team is extremely dedicated, knowledgeable, and committed to delivering the best service to their external and internal customers.”

Added Mansfield, “I am extremely honored to have been named a recipient of the Presidential Platinum Award. Thank you to my colleague for nominating me and to Paul for selecting me to receive this year’s award. My focus is always on a positive customer experience. Supporting, listening to, and finding customer solutions is simply the best part of my job. I could not do what I do without all the amazing team members at Country Bank. I am humbled to receive this award and appreciate that Country Bank has a culture that supports and recognizes the contributions of the team.”

Berkshire Agricultural Ventures Welcomes Martha Page to Board of Directors

By BusinessWest Staff June 29, 2023

Daily News

GREAT BARRINGTON — Berkshire Agricultural Ventures (BAV), a growing nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting local agriculture and a resilient regional food system, announced the appointment of Martha Page to its board of directors. With her extensive experience in nonprofit, government, and private-sector management, Page brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to further strengthen BAV’s mission and impact across the Berkshire-Taconic region.

Page joins the board following her successful tenure as executive director of Hartford Food System Inc., where she spearheaded innovative initiatives to address food security, promote equitable access to nutritious food, and foster community development. Her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the food system will be invaluable in helping guide BAV’s strategic vision.

Throughout her career, Page has demonstrated leadership and a commitment to collaborative problem solving. Her multi-disciplinary background has allowed her to navigate complex landscapes and build strong partnerships across sectors that will play a vital role in helping to shape BAV’s initiatives.

“We are thrilled to welcome Martha Page to the Board,” said Tom Gardner, BAV board president. He emphasized her impressive background and steadfast commitment to enhancing food systems, which strongly resonates with BAV’s mission. “Martha’s extensive expertise in the government and not-for-profit sectors will help BAV foster the development of a more resilient, sustainable, and equitable food system within their service area.”

Page will collaborate closely with other board members and BAV staff to ensure that BAV continues to make a significant impact on the agricultural communities of Berkshire, Litchfield (Conn.), Columbia (N.Y.), and Dutchess (N.Y.) counties.

“I am so excited to join the board of Berkshire Agricultural Ventures, I have followed the work of this impressive organization and have been a fan for several years,” she said. “What they do to ensure strong farms and food businesses in this region resonates so strongly with my ongoing commitment to help build a resilient New England food system. I look forward to working closely with Rebecca and the other board members to promote and support the work of BAV’s dedicated and talented staff.”

Nominations Sought for Healthcare Heroes Class of 2023

By BusinessWest Staff June 28, 2023

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — In the spring of 2017, BusinessWest and its sister publication, the Healthcare News, created a new and exciting recognition program called Healthcare Heroes.

It was launched with the theory that there are heroes working all across this region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare sector, and that there was no shortage of fascinating stories to tell and individuals and groups to honor. That theory has certainly been validated.

But there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of heroes whose stories we still need to tell. And that’s where you come in.

Nominations for the class of 2023 are due Saturday, July 29, and we encourage you to get involved and help recognize someone you consider to be a hero in the community we call Western Mass. in one (or more) of these seven categories:

• Patient/Resident/Client Care Provider;
• Health/Wellness Administrator/Administration;
• Emerging Leader;
• Community Health;
• Innovation in Health/Wellness;
• Collaboration in Health/Wellness; and
• Lifetime Achievement.

Nominations can be submitted at businesswest.com/healthcare-heroes/nominations.

For more information, call Melissa Hallock, Marketing and Events Director, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Shakespeare & Company Gala to Honor Founding Artistic Director Tina Packer

By BusinessWest Staff June 28, 2023

Daily News

LENOX — Shakespeare & Company’s 2023 gala, slated for Saturday, July 1, will honor founding Artistic Director Tina Packer and her many contributions to performance, actor training, theater education, and the Berkshires.

The gala will be held at Shakespeare & Company with both indoor and outdoor components, bringing together artists and individuals from the span of the company’s history. The evening will begin with a cocktail hour outside the Tina Packer Playhouse, then move into the theater for a presentation celebrating a retrospective of Shakespeare & Company, as well as a look toward its future.

Following the performance, guests will make their way to the tented Rose Meadow for an elegant dinner served by a Berkshire favorite, the Old Inn on the Green. The evening will conclude with dessert and dancing.

Shakespeare & Company board of trustees members Karen Kowgios and Michael Miller (clerk) serve as the gala’s co-chairs. In a joint statement, they spoke to the vast impact Packer has had across many decades and continents.

“It is impossible to list all her accomplishments, gather all of the people she has touched, and recreate all the theater she has directed or acted in,” they said. “We honor all that she has done, the person she is, and look forward to what is next.”

All proceeds from the 2023 gala will benefit Shakespeare & Company’s performance, training, and education programs, expanding its impact in the Berkshires and around the globe. Limited tickets are still available; single tickets range from $500 to $1,250, while table sponsorships are available from $5,000 to $25,000.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact Kristen Moriarty at [email protected] or (413) 637-1199, ext. 105.

Three County Fair Tickets on Sale June 30

By BusinessWest Staff June 28, 2023

Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — The Three County Fair kicks off its 206th consecutive edition Friday, Sept. 1 through Monday, Sept. 4 with advance discounted tickets going on sale Friday, June 30.

“We welcomed some of the largest crowds back to the fairgrounds last September, and in return we have put together a family-friendly festival with thrilling experiences for everyone,” said James Przypek, general manager of the Three County Fair. “We are especially excited about two different ‘you need to see it to believe it’ national acts at this year’s fair, the Magic of Lance Gifford and the American Motor Drome Company’s Wall of Death.”

The Three County Fair is well known for its motorsports events, such as its unique school-bus and minivan demolition derbies, car ‘enduro’ and lawnmower racing, plus truck and tractor pulls. The fair also boasts a wide selection of thrill rides for all ages, its Baby Barnyard, racing pigs, a parakeet encounter, a dozen different food trucks, and agricultural and livestock competitions featured daily.

“Live music will once again be a big part of Labor Day weekend at the Three County Fair,” Przypek noted. “We have North America’s number-one Shania Twain tribute artist, Shania Twin, with Canadian native Donna Huber performing with her band, plus local favorites such as American Idol contestant Katherine Winston and The Voice contestant Cara Brindisi.”

In all, the fair will have 15 different live music performances over the four days, all of which are free with general admission to the fair.

Parking at the fair is free, and general admission to the fair is free for children ages 11 and under. Adult admission is $12 when purchased in advance online and $15 at the gate. Discounts are also available at the gate for seniors and veterans. The popular four-day pass can be purchased for $30 on the fair’s website up until the day before the fair.

Fairgoers are encouraged to purchase their tickets in advance exclusively at 3countyfair.com to save money and time by allowing them to skip the lines at the ticket booth and proceed right to the gates for contactless entry.

For more information and a full schedule of events, visit 3countyfair.com.

Sourcepass Donates $50,000 to Chamber of Greater Easthampton’s WorkHub on Union

By BusinessWest Staff June 28, 2023

Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — The Chamber of Greater Easthampton announced a significant contribution of $50,000 from Sourcepass towards its ambitious co-workspace project, WorkHub on Union. The donation will support the development of a vibrant and collaborative co-working space, providing valuable resources for entrepreneurs and businesses in the Greater Easthampton region.

“We believe in the power of entrepreneurship and are thrilled to support the Chamber and the WorkHub on Union project,” said Dave Del Vecchio, vice president of Marketing & Communications for Sourcepass. “This partnership aligns with our mission to provide meaningful resources and opportunities for individuals to realize their business goals. We look forward to working closely with the chamber and contributing to the success of the local business community.”

WorkHub on Union aims to create an innovative and inspiring environment where entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small-business owners can thrive. Through this partnership with Sourcepass, the Chamber of Greater Easthampton will be able to enhance the support and services offered to local professionals, fostering growth and stimulating economic development in the community.

“We are immensely grateful for Sourcepass’s generous contribution toward our WorkHub on Union initiative,” said Moe Belliveau, executive director of the Chamber of Greater Easthampton. “This donation is an incredible first step towards the required funding that will enable us to provide professional workspace, as well as essential resources and entrepreneurial training, to individuals and small businesses, empowering them to succeed in today’s competitive market.”

Sourcepass, a leading technology company, is committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship and shares the chamber’s vision of supporting local businesses and driving economic growth in the Greater Easthampton area.

“By joining forces, the chamber and Sourcepass will work hand in hand to create an ecosystem that nurtures talent, fosters collaboration, and offers an array of valuable services to aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals alike,” Del Vecchio said.

In addition to offering a dynamic and flexible workspace, WorkHub on Union will provide access to mentorship programs, networking events, educational programming, and other support services designed to accelerate the growth of startups and small business. Through this collaboration, the Chamber of Greater Easthampton and Sourcepass aim to empower entrepreneurs, foster innovation, and establish the Greater Easthampton region as a hub for business excellence.

Florence Bank Promotes Jim Hickey to Senior Vice President, Director of Marketing

By BusinessWest Staff June 27, 2023

Daily News

FLORENCE — Florence Bank announced that Jim Hickey, vice president and director of Marketing Operations, has been promoted to lead the bank’s marketing efforts as senior vice president and director of Marketing.

Hickey replaces Monica Curhan, who retired on April 7 after serving as senior vice president and director of Marketing for nearly 10 years.

Hickey was hired in November 2021 as director of Marketing Operations with the explicit plan to one day take the helm as director of Marketing. He has 25 years of strategic marketing experience as well as a strong affinity for the Florence Bank brand, which Curhan ushered in during the early years of her tenure. “The challenge for me will be sustaining and evolving our unique brand identity,” Hickey said.

Matt Garrity, president and CEO of Florence Bank, said, “we are thrilled that Jim is stepping into this role to lead our marketing efforts. He is a creative thinker with a collaborative approach and a proven track record of managing projects from conception to implementation. I’m excited to see where he takes the brand next.”

Hickey holds a bachelor’s degree in English from UMass Amherst. He has experience in areas that include account management, creative development, media plan execution, and media buying.

Before joining Florence Bank, he was vice president of Account Service at Communicators Group, a marketing communications firm in Keene, N.H. He has also served as vice president and director of Marketing for Westbank, a financial institution formerly based in West Springfield.

Hickey said his experience in financial-services marketing and communications will continue to inform his work for Florence Bank. “I have managed the marketing and communications efforts for a number of clients in the banking industry. Those experiences have helped prepare me for this role.”

Active in the community, Hickey sits on the board for the Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity.

Curhan is looking forward to spending time with her grandchildren and helping her husband operate his apiary, caring for the bees and selling honey and honey products.

In the 10 years she represented the bank, Curhan served as a trustee for Cooley Dickinson Hospital, on its board for three years as well as on various committees. She also volunteered for the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, served meals at the Interfaith Emergency Homeless Shelter – COT Shelter in downtown Northampton, and took part in a Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity build day.

Zonta Palooza to Honor STEM Pioneer Lynn Goodhue

By BusinessWest Staff June 27, 2023

Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — On Sunday, Aug. 6 from 4 to 7 p.m., the Zonta Club of Northampton will host Zonta Palooza, a STEM scholarship music fundraiser at Northampton Center for the Arts, 33 Hawley St., in memory of Lynn Goodhue, a STEM pioneer who served with distinction at all levels of Zonta International.

According to Zonta Northampton Club President Seren Derin, the event emcee will be Judith Fine, former owner of Gazebo in Northampton and tireless volunteer for local government and good causes. The music lineup will include a mix of swing, blues, folk, and soul from Blackbird & Applegate, Louise Mosrie Coombe, and the O-Tones Trio, local musicians with a significant following. There will be refreshments and raffle prizes, from a quilt created by a friend of Zonta to gift certificates donated by local businesses.

Click here to register. Suggested donations are $20 to $100, payable by Venmo @zontaclubnoho; by check payable to Zonta Northampton, P.O. Box 1034, Belchertown, MA 01007; or by cash to a Zonta member before the event or at the door.

The event committee hopes sponsors will help cover expenses so that all donations can be used to fund the scholarship in Goodhue’s name for a local woman pursuing a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) degree program at an accredited university, college, or other institution.

Questions can be directed to [email protected].

Teen Mothers to Graduate from the Care Center on June 30

By BusinessWest Staff June 27, 2023

Daily News

HOLYOKE — The Care Center’s 2023 graduation ceremony will be held at the Wistariahurst Museum on Friday, June 30 from 1 to 3 p.m. Thirteen students attending the Care Center who have passed the HiSet (GED) exam this year will be honored at the event.

Close to 100 people are expected to attend the event at Wistariahurst, at the corner of Beech and Cabot streets. Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia and state Rep. Patricia Duffy will speak at the ceremony, as will the Care Center valedictorian.

“This may be the last graduation in the Valley this year, but most likely the most inspiring,” Care Center Executive Director Anne Teschner said. “These graduates are extraordinary young mothers who give us reason to feel optimistic about our future as a country. All have dropped out of school, struggle with the challenges of poverty and the demands of parenting, yet all returned to their educational path to pass the HiSet (formerly GED) exam. The majority (more than 75%) are continuing to college. Many have already begun their college career. These are smart, capable young women who are facing their life challenges with grace and strength.”

Each year, more than 100 pregnant and parenting teens attend the Care Center, an alternative education center located at 247 Cabot St. Services include academic classes in preparation for the HiSet and college, on-site daycare, counseling, assistance with the transition to higher education, and door-to-door transportation.

The Care Center’s approach has led to regional and national recognition as a model of innovative programming for young families. In 2012, the Care Center was selected as one of 12 organizations in the country to receive the Presidential Arts and Humanities Youth Program Award, the highest honor a program like this can receive.

In 2016, the Care Center and Bard College launched Bard Microcollege Holyoke, the first college in the country tailored for young mothers, located at the Care Center. In 2019, the Care Center won the Commonwealth Award, the highest award given by the state of Massachusetts to a cultural organization.

The Care Center is supported by numerous funding sources and individuals, including the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, and generous donors from throughout the region.

UMass Study Focuses on Impact of Air Pollution on Women’s Reproductive Health

By BusinessWest Staff June 27, 2023

Daily News

AMHERST — Funded by a new grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a UMass Amherst environmental and reproductive epidemiologist aims to develop a more robust understanding of the effects of ambient air pollution on women’s reproductive health.

Carrie Nobles, assistant professor in the School of Public Health and Health Sciences, will use the two-year, $650,000 exploratory/developmental research grant from the NIH’s National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to identify mechanisms and susceptible reproductive processes across the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy.

Ultimately, findings will provide the foundation for identifying ways to improve reproductive health and informing public policy on pollution standards.

Ambient air pollution, such as traffic and power-plant emissions, is associated with increases in inflammation and oxidative stress that may inhibit the establishment of a healthy pregnancy by disrupting endocrine function, ovulation, implantation, and placentation, Nobles explained.

Previous, smaller studies by Nobles and colleagues have linked air pollution to fertility at the broad population level, “but we don’t understand exactly how and who is most affected,” said Nobles, who is also analyzing the impact of air pollution and other environmental factors on men’s fertility in another NIH-funded study.

Nobles will incorporate data from the completed pre-conception time-to-pregnancy study known as EAGeR (Effects of Aspirin in Gestation and Reproduction), which evaluated the effect of low-dose aspirin on live-birth rates. The study includes detailed information on 1,228 participants during six menstrual cycles when they are attempting to get pregnant.

“Around the time of ovulation and also around the time of implantation of the embryo, exposure during those points to higher levels of air pollution does seem to relate to a lower probability of getting pregnant and also a higher risk of pregnancy loss,” Nobles said about findings from studies involving couples seeking infertility treatment. “But there are very few studies that have this fine, detailed information on the timing of things like ovulation, the earliest possible detection of pregnancy, and, potentially, a pregnancy loss. So we will be able to look at these acute exposures that are hard to detect.”

Nobles will estimate participants’ exposure to ambient air pollution during biologically informed windows of the menstrual cycle and early pregnancy by looking at the EPA’s Community Multiscale Air Quality models where they live.

For a smaller group of 288 women, Nobles will look at urinary levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, chemicals found in vehicle exhaust, cigarette and wood smoke, and grilled or charred food. She also will examine two biomarkers for oxidative stress mechanisms. “This will let us understand more about how these effects are happening,” she said.

For the group of women who received low-dose aspirin, Nobles will assess whether the anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet actions of aspirin reduce the impact of air-pollution exposure.

Nobles hypothesizes that air-pollution exposure around ovulation and implantation will change reproductive hormones and reduce fertility. Pollution exposure during critical windows in early pregnancy is also expected to increase risk of pregnancy loss.

She expects that the impacts of air pollution among the women who received low-dose aspirin will be weaker.

Springfield Thunderbirds Recognized for Record-setting Successes in 2022-23

By BusinessWest Staff June 26, 2023

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Thunderbirds were recognized for hitting milestone thresholds across a variety of business categories during the American Hockey League’s team business meetings in Tucson, Ariz. The annual event features representatives from all 32 member clubs for sessions discussing best practices and innovative ideas across multiple departments.

On the heels of another record-setting year for the Thunderbirds business that saw new regular-season records in attendance per game (6,162), sellout games (15, including every Saturday from Dec. 30 onward), season-ticket members, and group-sales revenue, the team’s ticket sales department achieved a number of milestones for a second straight season. Among them were 600 new full-season equivalents (FSE), a metric that tracks full-season and partial-season ticket sales. The department also saw a greater than 85% renewal rate among its full-season ticket members.

Individual game ticket sales also provided the Thunderbirds with two more threshold recognitions, as the business saw a greater than 15% increase in both FSE revenue per game and group ticket revenue per game.

In what was also a record-setting year for the club’s corporate sales department, that area of the business was recognized for also seeing a greater than 85% renewal rate in corporate cash accounts en route to a single-season record in corporate revenue.

“Our entire staff has worked diligently to have an impact that is tangible in the arena, and these honors speak to that hard work coming to fruition,” Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa said. “On each of our big promotional nights, we are engaging fans of all ages and creating lifelong memories, which will always remain a top priority. The growth in ticket sales is a testament to our incredible fan support, which proves we can be a force in our league, even as a smaller market. In turn, those bodies in the arena provide so much value for our corporate partnerships, and their support and involvement have allowed that department to reach new heights as well.”

The Thunderbirds also had a prolific season in the Springfield community, with more than 250 appearances by mascot Boomer and team players combined, ranging from youth hockey practice sessions to charitable affairs like the Rays of Hope walk, annual Teddy Bear Toss deliveries, and corporate partnership events.

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Announces Corporators, Directors

By BusinessWest Staff June 26, 2023

Daily News

GREENFIELD — Anthony Worden, president and CEO of Greenfield Cooperative Bank and its parent company, Greenfield Bancorp MHC, announced that the following actions were taken at the company’s 118th annual meeting on June 20.

Darci Brown and Jeffrey Collura were re-elected as corporators of Greenfield Bancorp MHC, while new candidates Khama Ennis, Jennifer Ewers, Matthew Sheehy, Terri Mitchell, and Brandon Lively were elected as corporators of Greenfield Bancorp MHC.

Nancy Fournier, JoAnne Finck, and Peter Whalen were re-elected to three year terms as directors of the bank and Greenfield Bancorp MHC, while Catherine Coleman was elected to a three-year term as a director of the bank and Greenfield Bancorp MHC.

Pillars of the Community Workforce Initiative to Host Employer Appreciation Breakfast

By BusinessWest Staff June 26, 2023

Daily News

HOLYOKE — MassHire Holyoke’s Pillars of the Community Workforce (PCW), an initiative funded by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development’s Community Empowerment and Reinvestment Grant Program, will culminate with its first annual Employer Appreciation Breakfast to honor Hampden County and Franklin County employers for their commitment to their communities and exceptional contribution to the workforce.

The event will take place on Tuesday, June 27 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the Summit View Banquet and Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Breakfast will be served. Members of the community are invited to attend by registration only. Click here to register.

State Sen. John Velis and Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia are the featured guest speakers. Garcia will provide opening remarks on the city of Holyoke’s pledge to be a Recovery Ready Workplace. Velis will address the topic of fostering good mental health in the workplace and the significance of employer-employee relationships in achieving this goal.

Ramona Rivera-Reno, executive director of MassHire Holyoke’s Re-entry & Recovery program, will provide an overview of progress with the Recovery Ready Workplace (RRW) initiative and present awards to outstanding employers in various categories.

PCW has broadened MassHire Holyoke’s (MHH) successful re-entry and recovery programming by expanding capacity for services in the community. PCW’s service design is a boots-on-the-ground approach with a mobile community lab of 15 devices, which allows for employment services including digital literacy, financial literacy, and job-readiness skills training on site with community partners.

In addition, PCW expanded MHH’s outreach to the business community with the Recovery Ready Workplace. MHH intends to roll out the RRW throughout the state of Massachusetts so that businesses begin to shape a cultural norm that eliminates the stigma associated with addiction and substance-use disorders and promotes a healthy, thriving workforce.

Anyone interested in learning more about the Pillars of Community Workforce or the Recovery Ready Workplace initiative should contact Ramona Rivera-Reno, executive director of MassHire Holyoke’s Re-entry and Recovery Program at (413) 427-3498 or [email protected].

Pride Crosswalk Installation Scheduled for Downtown Springfield

By BusinessWest Staff June 26, 2023

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Cultural Partnership, Springfield Pride Parade, and Common Wealth Murals are teaming up to install Pride crosswalks in downtown Springfield on Sunday, July 9, with a rain date of Sunday, Aug. 6.

The crosswalk will be installed at the four-way intersection at Main Street, Court Square, and Bruce Landon Way by the entrance to the MassMutual Center and the William C. Sullivan Regional Visitors Center. Roadways being painted will be closed to vehicular traffic that day. Road closures include Main Street between Pynchon Street and State Street and Court Street between Market Street and City Hall Place.

“I truly believe the city has this really new energy, and the city of Springfield is actually becoming very innovative,” said Taurean Bethea, founder and CEO of Springfield PRIDE Parade. “It’s just going to make the city look good, and it’s going to make people of the LGBTQ+ community just feel supported and feel as if they are seen. And that is one of our greatest missions as an organization.”

The final rendering was created by designer and illustrator Chris Seabrooks with input from the partner organizations, and will be professionally installed by Common Wealth Murals muralists, Springfield Pride Parade members, and the Springfield Cultural Partnership (SCP). The Springfield Business Improvement District has supported both the crosswalk design and logistical aspects of preparing for the installation. SCP is the project’s planning partner and sponsor.

“We are grateful to the Springfield City Council for their unanimous decision made on June 13, 2022 to approve our plans to install permanent Pride crosswalks on Main Street,” said Karen Finn, SCP executive director. “Springfield Cultural Partnership partners, city leadership, and civic-minded organizations are working together with incredibly talented and enthusiastic local creatives and culture bearers, allowing for more community-centered art to make its way into this great city.”

BusinessTalk with Nicole Polite, CEO and Founder of MH Group

By BusinessWest Staff June 26, 2023

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 168: June 26, 2023

Joe Bednar Interviews Nicole Polite, CEO and Founder of MH Group

It’s an interesting time, to say the least, in the world of employment and staffing, amid a shortage of talent in many industries and tidal changes in the way people work. Amid all of this, Nicole Polite has built a model at her staffing and recruiting firm, the MH Group, that aims to meet the needs of employers while helping job seekers effectively navigate the market. On the next installment of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Polite about her agency, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary, and her new nonprofit, the MH Cares Foundation, which uses the power of mentorship to help underserved populations achieve fulfilling careers. It’s must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

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HCC to Welcome U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren for Town Hall on June 25

By BusinessWest Staff June 23, 2023

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) will welcome U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren to campus for a town-hall-style meeting on Sunday, June 25.

Warren will talk about current issues and answer questions from the audience from 1 to 2 p.m. in the HCC Courtyard. In the event of inclement weather, the town hall will be moved into the HCC Campus Center. Doors open at noon.

According to a statement from Warren’s office, the senator is expected to answer questions, give updates on what she’s fighting for in Washington, and discuss the most pressing issues facing Massachusetts and the nation.

The event is free and open to the public, and admission is first come, first served. Tickets are not required, but an RSVP (at hcc.edu/warren-townhall) is strongly encouraged.

Bulkley Richardson Welcomes Elizabeth Dougal

By BusinessWest Staff June 23, 2023

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Elizabeth Dougal has joined Bulkley Richardson as counsel in the Trusts & Estates department, where her practice incudes preparation and administration of wills, revocable and irrevocable trusts, personal-effects memorandum, durable powers of attorney, healthcare proxies, real-estate deeds, homestead exemptions, and small-business succession plans.

For the past 19 years, Dougal ran a boutique legal practice providing clients with estate planning and related transactional work. She was also a consultant to estate, trust, and elder-care clients in several states through the Attorney Resource Center. She earned both a bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, and a juris doctorate from Boston College.

“Our Trusts & Estates practice continues to thrive, and Elizabeth’s arrival at the firm is evidence of our commitment to engaging stellar lawyers to handle all of our clients’ most sensitive personal and business matters,” said Dan Finnegan, managing partner at Bulkley Richardson.

Country Bank Announces Stonier Graduate

By BusinessWest Staff June 23, 2023

Daily News

WARE — Country Bank congratulates Dianna Lussier, vice president of Risk, on her recent graduation from the American Bankers Assoc., Stonier Graduate School of Banking.

The ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking continues to lead the way as the industry’s preeminent graduate banking program. Professional development is important now more than ever, and Stonier delivers the highest standard of executive education through its highly regarded program, the bank noted. Graduates receive both a Stonier diploma and a Wharton leadership certificate.

“During the past three years, I gained valuable insights into leadership, innovation, ethics, business strategy, and change management,” Lussier said. “I’ve learned new perspectives and skill sets and built meaningful connections with leaders in the banking industry across the country. I know these connections will be a great resource for me throughout my career. Thank you to Country Bank for providing me with this opportunity to advance my leadership and other developmental skills that will make a difference in my career, for my team, and the bank.”

Miriam Siegel, FSVP, chief Culture & Development officer, added that “we couldn’t be prouder of Dianna for her dedication to the completion of the American Bankers Association Stonier School of Banking. She has worked hard over the course of this three-year program designed to enhance her leadership skills as a banker, a risk professional, and a thought leader for the bank. Dianna has always been enthusiastic about the learning opportunities offered by the bank through her career at Country Bank, and we are appreciative of her continued commitment to excellence.”

MCLA Receives $1 Million from Executive Office of Health and Human Services

By BusinessWest Staff June 23, 2023

Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — The Massachusetts Executive Office of Health and Human Services (EOHHS) awarded Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) $1 million to fund the college’s new bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program. The grant will support the first two years of the program by supplementing its curriculum development and funding the cost of a simulation lab coordinator; nursing journals, textbooks, and testing software; and Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing fees.

MCLA’s BSN program received approval from the Board of Registration in Nursing in January and approval from the Board of Higher Education in March. The program will launch in the fall of 2024 and graduate its first class in 2027. It is the first BSN program in Berkshire County and the only four-year nursing program in the rural tri-state area of Massachusetts, New York, and Vermont.

The curriculum will integrate MCLA’s liberal-arts foundation with required courses in the humanities and natural and social sciences to complement theoretical and clinical courses in professional nursing. Nursing faculty will utilize a simulation lab to provide hands-on learning experiences for students in a controlled environment.

The EOHHS Home and Community Based Service (HCBS) and Human Services Workforce Development Grant Program is set to award up to $42.5 million in grant funding for training, recruiting, and retaining initiatives that support HCBS and the human-services workforce in Massachusetts. The program helps fund training organizations that develop healthcare professionals, including direct-care staff, nurses, behavioral-health staff, and community health workers. This mission aligns with MCLA’s goal to address the rural nursing shortage and the critical healthcare needs in Berkshire County through the creation of a BSN program.

East Longmeadow Faces Some Big Decisions

By George O'Brien June 23, 2023

Community Spotlight

Plans are moving forward for a large warehouse facility on the former Package Machinery complex.

For more than 35 years now, the property at 330 Chestnut St. in East Longmeadow, known colloquially as the Package Machinery complex, has been the subject of question marks about what will come next there.

Indeed, while there have been sporadic uses of portions of the sprawling property, especially its massive warehouse facility, over the years, it has been mostly vacant. The once-mowed acreage adjacent to the administration and production facilities is completely overgrown with weeds and other forms of vegetation. And the large ‘X’s on the front of the property instruct fire crews not to enter because it has been deemed unsafe to do so.

So the questions persist — only, these days, months after a controversial plan to build a large warehouse facility there were first unveiled, and weeks after the plan was approved by the town’s Planning Board with a lengthy list of conditions, they are somewhat different in nature.

Now, the questions mostly concern what these conditions, including one requiring a right turn out of the property, will mean for certain areas of the community, including its downtown and famous (make that infamous) rotary, and other communities, including neighboring Enfield and Longmeadow. They also concern whether these conditions will be altered and new ones added, and even whether the project will hold up under potential litigation from residents.

“This is a generational opportunity and investment; East Longmeadow is an incredible community, and this gives it an asset that is a great attraction for young families.”

The matter will be the subject of a reopened public hearing on June 20, said Planning Board Chairman Jon Torcia, adding that, when it voted to approve the project in May, the board noted the concerns about traffic and noise, but ultimately concluded that this was a use allowed within that zone, and one that should be approved, with conditions.

Overall, 2023 is shaping up as a possible watershed year for this growing community of more than 16,000 residents.

Indeed, beyond the controversy over the future of 330 Chestnut St., there is also the matter of a proposed new high school for the town, one with a sticker price now north of $177 million, with the town’s share expected to be roughly $120 million.

The matter is due to come up for a vote on Election Day, Nov. 7, and to say this a huge vote for the community would an understatement.

The current high school opened its doors in 1960 and is the last of the high schools built in this region during that time that is still standing. Some see the high school as a potentially limiting factor in the town’s ability to compete with other surrounding communities for families, current students, and even businesses. Meanwhile, the building is very much energy-inefficient at a time when municipalities are moving to build schools and other facilities that move in the other direction.

“This is a generational opportunity and investment; East Longmeadow is an incredible community, and this gives it an asset that is a great attraction for young families,” said School Superintendent Gordon Smith, adding that, if voters approve the measure in November, ground would likely be broken in the summer of 2024, with the new building, to be built on athletic fields behind the current facility, to be ready for occupancy in the fall of 2026.

Bill Laplante says building lots are increasingly difficult to come by, and when they do become available, they go fast, and for high prices.

But despite its aging high school and its uncertain future, East Longmeadow remains a popular landing spot for both families and businesses, especially with a uniform tax rate.

“The town has become very desirable,” said Bill Laplante, owner of Laplante Construction, a residential builder with offices on Main Street. And he speaks from experience — he grew up in East Longmeadow, graduated from its high school, and raised a family there. “When I look at it from a business standpoint, just seeing that people are trying to find land or trying to find homes in town … it’s incredible.”

Elaborating, he said that, while there are more building lots in this town than in neighboring Longmeadow or many other communities, the inventory certainly isn’t what it was years ago. This means lots that become available in the few subdivisions being built go quickly, and the prices of existing homes move higher (more on all this later).

Beyond the warehouse and high school, there are some other big decisions that might be made in 2023, including what to do with another long-vacant property: the former home of Carlin Combustion Engineering on Maple Street. It is due to be acquired by the town, said Town Manager Mary McNally, adding that a request for proposals will likely be issued. Meanwhile, there are plans on the table for renovating one of the town’s gems, Heritage Park, plans that might move off the table — or not, depending on a number of factors, including the high-school project and its cost to the taxpayers.

For this, the latest installment of its Community Spotlight series, BusinessWest takes an in-depth look at East Longmeadow and the many important decisions that will likely be made this year.

Developing Stories

As noted earlier, the property at 330 Chestnut, across the street from the Lenox manufacturing facility, has been a declining eyesore, and a source of seemingly endless speculation, for many years.

It appeared that an answer had been found several years ago, when a development group, East Longmeadow Redevelopers LLC, put plans on the table for a mixed-use facility, or ‘village,’ as it was called by some, one that would include housing and commercial uses. Those plans were conceived just before the start of the pandemic, said McNally, adding that the project essentially died on the vine amid COVID-related issues such as spiraling costs and supply-chain woes, as well as disagreement between the developer and the Town Council over how much of the space would be devoted to commercial uses.

“When I look at it from a business standpoint, just seeing that people are trying to find land or trying to find homes in town … it’s incredible.”

In its place, East Longmeadow Developers LLC proposed the large warehouse facility — more than 500,000 square feet in size, with 100 docking bays — which has drawn considerable opposition from residents, especially those in an over-55 luxury condo development called the Fields at Chestnut, citing increased truck traffic and noise.

The project is allowed, from a zoning perspective, and the Planning Board approved the proposal, with approximately 20 conditions, earlier this spring, Torcia said. One of those conditions, mandating a right turn out of the property, away from the Fields of Chestnut, was not discussed at earlier hearings, he noted, adding that it would certainly be the focus of discussion at the public hearing slated for June 20.

The developers have estimated there will be roughly 400 vehicle trips per day at the site, he said, adding that he believes that most of these trucks will take a second right — rather than a left and head for the center of town — and proceed to highways through roads in Enfield and Longmeadow.

“I think this project will bring benefits in that it will rehabilitate a blighted property that has not been operational for quite some time,” he explained. “But we did hear from people who spoke at the meetings who were rightfully concerned about an increase in traffic, going from a property where there’s been no activity to one with considerable activity.”

Mary McNally says there’s plenty of support for a new high school, but there are also cost concerns.

There has been no activity, or very little of it, at the Carlin Combustion site for the better part of a decade, said McNally, but that could soon change now that the town is acquiring the property from its current owner.

She noted that motorists navigating Maple Street at or above the posted speed limit might not even notice the property, with its overgrown weeds and rusting signs hinting at its former use. But it has not gone unnoticed by town officials or the authors of the master plan, who have identified it as a potential asset.

East Longmeadow at a Glance

Year Incorporated: 1894
Population: 16,430
Area: 13.0 square miles
County: Hampden
Residential Tax Rate: $19.20
Commercial Tax Rate: $19.20
Median Household Income: $62,680
Median Family Income: $70,571
Type of Government: Town Council, Town Manager
Largest Employers: Lenox; Cartamundi; CareOne at Redstone; East Longmeadow Skilled Nursing Center
* Latest information available

Indeed, there are many possible future uses for the property, said McNally, adding that some would like it devoted to open space — it abuts a rail trail and a rail depot converted into an ice-cream parlor — or as home to a new public-safety complex, while others, and she puts herself in this category, would like to see housing of a more affordable variety than most all of the homes currently being built in this community.

“I think housing is the best option, and the Commonwealth has a lot of money designated for housing needs, and East Longmeadow needs some affordable options,” she explained. “There are a lot of new homes going up for $600,000 and $700,000; a lot of people who live here would like to stay here and perhaps downsize from a $200,000, $300,000, or $400,000 home into something smaller.”

School of Thought

When asked what plan B might be if residents do not support the proposal to build a new high school this fall, Smith, said that, in essence, there isn’t one. Or at least one that makes sense, in his opinion.

The only option for the town would be to spend an estimated $120 million to renovate the school and bring it up to modern codes, he said, adding that this isn’t much of an option.

Elaborating, he said that, through two phases of a feasibility study and feedback from residents and other constituencies, the town has moved to the point where new construction has been deemed the best option.

“The public feedback was ‘you might as well go for new construction because of some of the challenges that have been identified,’” he said, noting, as one example, that if the town were to upgrade the HVAC system to bring it to code, doing so would decrease the room size because of the need to create new walls to fit the HVAC equipment that would go between those walls.

“The Commonwealth has a lot of money designated for housing needs, and East Longmeadow needs some affordable options.”

He said the town has been talking about a new high school for at least a decade. Over those 10 years, the price tag has only increased, and the current projections — and these could change with final design — is approximately $177 million, with $55 million to $57 million to be reimbursed by the state.

This will obviously be a large burden on the taxpayers, said McNally, adding that, for a small community like this one, “the numbers are frightening.”

The exact impact on the tax rate hasn’t been determined, she said, adding that some estimates put the hit at $1,000 annually for the average taxpayer. Overall, she said it is difficult to project how November’s vote will go.

“There’s a lot of support for the school; I think everyone acknowledges, or most people acknowledge, that it’s needed. But then there’s the cost barrier. But in the absence of a new school, I’m not sure we can compete as well with Wilbraham and Longmeadow, both of which have relatively new schools.”

Meanwhile, a project of this size and scope might impact or delay other capital projects, such as long-needed, long-talked-about improvements to Heritage Park.

Indeed, McNally produced a thick file folder detailing roughly $7 million worth of improvements that include a new recreation center, an indoor gym, walking trails, dredging the pond, athletic fields, and more.

“We need soccer fields and play areas,” she said, adding that soccer fields at the Lenox complex, used by the town for years, are being converted to solar farms, and other facilities will no longer be available for public use. “Unfortunately, the school vote has somewhat tapered my encouragement of the progress of some of these other projects because you can’t pay for everything at the same time.”

Despite some of these municipal issues and question marks moving forward, East Longmeadow remains a community in demand. That’s true on the commercial side — many area banks have located branches there over the past decade or so, for example, and Chase, which is renovating a property in the center of town, is the latest to join that list — and on the residential side as well.

Indeed, Laplante said building lots are increasingly difficult to come by, and when they do become available, they go fast, and for high prices.

“You do a search for available building lots in town, and you find that there really aren’t that many,” he said. “There are scattered lots that are in established neighborhoods, but you don’t see many available building lots in a neighborhood setting.”

Still, there some new homes being built, including one his company is handling in a new subdivision off Prospect Street called Bella Vista. Overall, Laplante has built three of the homes in the complex — another high-end development where the lots are absorbed quickly, which in many ways reflects what’s been happening in this community over the past several years.

Thomas Meshako Takes the Helm at Greenfield Savings Bank

By George O'Brien June 23, 2023

Franklin County

Putting the Focus on Community

Thomas Meshako says Greenfield Savings Bank plans to grow organically and with a strategic expansion of its footprint.

Thomas Meshako acknowledged it was a quite a change moving from the large, regional institutions where he worked the first 30 or so years of his career in financial services to Greenfield Savings Bank.

But it’s a change he wanted.

“I decided I wanted to get out of the buying and selling of banks and really wanted to become part of the community — something I always felt was missing when you’re working in a bank and dealing with mergers and acquisitions and always trying to make the next quarter’s earnings,” he said, noting that most of the banks he’s worked for have been absorbed by larger institutions. “I wanted to be at a bank where we invested in the future, for the long haul, and that cares about the community it serves.”

He’s found all that GSB, where he arrived in 2016 as chief financial officer and serves now as president and CEO, new titles he was awarded late last fall following the search for a successor to John Howland.

Since arriving, and especially since becoming president and CEO, Meshako has been out in the community, taking part in events ranging from the Hatfield Bonfire music festival fundraiser to Northampton’s Pride Parade to Tapestry Health’s recent auction. As he talked with BusinessWest, he was gearing up for the Green River Festival, the massive three-day music fest (Little Feat is among the headliners) set for June 23-25 in Greenfield; the bank is a major sponsor.

He’s been at so many events, especially on weekends, that he’s spending far less time at his cabin in Vermont than he expected to be, but he acknowledged that “this is where I need to be.” By that, he meant Greenfield and GSB, an institution that crashed through the $1 billion assets mark in 2020 and is now focused on the next milestones — $1.5 billion and $2 billion — and what it will take to get there.

“When I looked at Greenfield Savings, I decided that it’s where I wanted to be. It’s a little different, but it’s exciting to work for a bank that was growing.”

The bank was celebrating its 150th anniversary when it passed the $1 billion milestone; when asked when he thought GSB might get to $2 billion, he joked, “sooner than 150 years.”

Elaborating, and turning more serious, Meshako said the bank plans to grow organically, and he is looking at expanding its footprint, specifically in Hampshire County, where five of its 10 branches are located. He didn’t pinpoint specific communities for new branches, but did say they would be towns deemed ‘underbanked’ by recent feasibility studies.

Meanwhile, GSB will be rolling out some new products, including a new rewards program for debit-card users, and continually upgrading its technology, with a new online product for loans and deposits, for example, to stay current and provide customers with what they want and need.

“Most people are looking for more convenience to bank from home, and we’re trying to make sure we offer that,” he said, adding quickly that brink-and-mortar branches, which provide visibility and other forms of convenience, are still a big part of GSB’s growth strategy.

For this issue and its focus on Franklin County, BusinessWest talked at length with Meshako about his new role, his long-term outlook for GSB, and his thoughts on Greenfield, Franklin County, and how this gem of a region is making major strides when it comes to economic development — and as a destination.

Generating Interest

As he talked with BusinessWest, Meshako gestured out the windows of GSB’s main conference room toward the other side of Main Street and the properties on either side of the Greenfield Garden Cinemas, one of the signature redevelopment projects of the past decade in this community.

“Just a few years ago, most of those storefronts were vacant,” he said, noting that they are now occupied, with everything from a book shop to a pop-up store that are, collectively, contributing to a new sense of progress and vibrancy in this city of almost 18,000 residents.

The GSB senior management team includes, from left, Lori Grover, Mark Grumoli, Thomas Meshako, Steve Hamlin, and Shandra Richardson.

And there is more coming, he said, noting the highly anticipated redevelopment of the former Wilson’s Department Store, a few blocks down Main Street from the bank, into a mix of retail (specifically the Green Fields Market) and housing, which he believes is sorely needed in this community.

“Availability of housing is very tight in Greenfield and all of Franklin and Hampshire counties,” he explained. “This is something we desperately need, and that’s one of the reasons why this project is so exciting.”

Getting involved in a community at this level was an element missing for most of Meshako’s career, one that, as noted earlier, was marked mostly by work at larger, regional banks that have since been absorbed by larger institutions.

Most recently, he served as chief financial officer of Merchants Bancshares in Burlington, Vt., a commercial bank with branches throughout Vermont and the Springfield market. Prior to that, he served in several positions, including principal financial officer, at Brookline Bancorp in Boston. There were also stints at Union Bankshares in Vermont and Chittenden Corp. and the institution that acquired it, People’s United Financial.

After nearly three years at Merchants Bancshares, Meshako was a looking for a new and different challenge, and found it at GSB.

“When I looked at Greenfield Savings, I decided that it’s where I wanted to be,” he told BusinessWest. “It’s a little different, but it’s exciting to work for a bank that was growing.”

And it has continued that growth pattern, he said, noting that the bank posted record earnings in 2021 and 2022. It won’t continue that streak this year amid spiraling interest rates that are negatively impacting both the residential and commercial loan portfolios and tightening margins, but it will be another solid year, he said.

And while achieving solid growth on the bottom line, the bank has also been able to increase its contributions within the community by 10% a year since he arrived — a pattern of improvement Meshako is committed to continuing.

Looking ahead, he said the bank has essentially ruled out additional expansion in Franklin County, where there are currently five branches, and instead will focus its sights on Hampshire County, where GSB currently has a physical presence in Northampton (two branches), Amherst (two branches), and Hadley (one location).

“We’re always the number-one lender in Franklin County, and we’re now the fourth-largest lender in Hampshire County,” he explained. “And we hope to continue to grow that market share as well. Within the Five College community, there is a need for housing, and being primarily a commercial real-estate lender, that’s a niche that I think we can fill; we’ve done very well there.”

GSB has conducted feasibility studies on which communities would make suitable landing spots, he went on, adding that he considers some communities underbanked because of some of the recent mergers and acquisitions which have left fewer banks in some markets and larger institutions in others.

In the case of community banks, and especially this one, the investment — and the commitment — in a new location involves much more than brick and mortar that goes into the actual branch building.

“We don’t just put a branch up … when we move into a community, we give to the local organizations, we hire local people, and we try to make sure that everything we do makes us part of that community,” he explained. “So it’s more expensive than just opening a branch or putting people in a location.”

By All Accounts

Getting back to that view out the conference-room windows, Meshako said Greenfield, and Franklin County as a whole, is seeing progress on many fronts, from tourism to Greenfield’s downtown, which has many new businesses and projects in various stages of development, from a new town library and fire station to the aforementioned Wilson’s redevelopment initiative.

“Greenfield is on its way up; it has a lot of character, and I hope it continues to grow and evolve,” he told BusinessWest, citing not only the new building projects and the new storefronts, but a greater livability — and relative affordability — that is attracting residents and entrepreneurs alike. “The people moving here want to be part of a community, and that’s what they find — community.”

And he believes more people are finding it these days, and will be finding it in the future, especially as technology, and changing attitudes in the workplace, enable more people to live where they want and work where they want at the same time.

“Because more people are now able to work remotely, we’ve definitely seen an increase in the number of people buying properties and moving to Greenfield,” he said, adding that, while this trend will certainly impact housing prices in the long run, it will also bring more support businesses, hospitality-related ventures, and general vibrancy to the region.

As Meshako talks about his bank, its plans for the future, and its involvement in the community, and also as he talks about Greenfield and the many positive developments there, it’s clear why he made that career change seven years ago.

As he said, he wanted to be at a bank that didn’t just have a mailing address on Main Street, but a stake in everything that that is happening on Main Street — and many other streets as well.

As Meshako said, it was a big change, but a change he wanted — and needed — to make.

And he has never looked back.

Massachusetts Central Rail Trail Completion Would Bring Benefits

By Contributor June 23, 2023

Construction

Pathway of Progress

An aerial view of part of the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail.

A study initiated by the Norwottuck Network to assess the benefits of the completion of the Massachusetts Central Rail Trail (MRCT) system predicts that general health and wellness would improve and annual trail usage could quadruple, creating opportunities for overnight visitation, new jobs, increased local small businesses, and an overall economic benefit ranging from $87 to $182 million annually.

The nonprofit Norwottuck Network raised $75,000 to commission the study by Kittelson & Associates Inc. of Boston and Cambridge Econometrics of Northampton to evaluate the potential use and health and economic benefits of completing the 104-mile, multi-use bicycle and pedestrian trail system that runs east-west between Boston and Northampton along the historic Massachusetts Central Railroad corridor.

Findings outlined in “Envisioning a Statewide Connection: Mass Central Rail Trail Benefits Study,” released in mid-May, indicate that completion of the trail would result in increased usage of up to 4 million to 5 million people annually and reduced health costs from $4.1 to $5.8 million per year. On the economic side, a completed trail would create $87 to $182 million per year in new economic activity, including $55 to $114 million in new spending by trail users and up to 1,250 new jobs.

Leaders of the nine-member Norwottuck Network board, founded in 2000, will now ask the state Department of Transportation (DOT) to evaluate construction costs and create a timeline for completion.

Currently, 55 miles of the trail are officially open, with roughly 20 miles in the planning or construction stages. Challenging sections of the trail to be completed include areas where bridges are missing, trail segments that will need to be purchased from private owners, and needed repairs to a 1,000-foot tunnel near the Wachusett Reservoir.

A completed Mass Central trail would eliminate those barriers and open those sections, and also link the rail trail system to 18 additional existing and under-development rail trails, creating a 273-mile trail network within the state of Massachusetts.

“These long walking and biking trails produce a lot of benefits. The question was, is it worth spending public money? This report unequivocally says yes, it will be worth it.”

Craig Della Penna, president of the network board, said the DOT recently conducted a study to evaluate the feasibility of reassembling segments of the Mass Central Rail Trail into a unified trail system and released findings in 2021; no action was taken because the benefits had yet to be assessed.

“This report is the next step,” Della Penna said. “And we are not surprised by these findings. These long walking and biking trails produce a lot of benefits. The question was, is it worth spending public money? This report unequivocally says yes, it will be worth it.

“Consultants never overestimate benefits in an analysis,” he added, noting they are more apt to underestimate. “There are no negatives. Tourism is the third-largest industry in the state. A completed trail would allow people to bike right out of their neighborhood and explore the state in a way they’ve never been able to do before.”

Kittelson & Associates noted that the completed network would be within 10 miles of 64% of all Massachusetts residents and would offer a boost to 19 cities and towns defined by the consultants as gateway communities — those that face social and economic challenges but retain assets such as infrastructure or major institutions.

Among the gateway communities that would benefit are Barre, Billerica, Clinton, Easthampton, Hardwick, Hatfield, Lunenburg, Marlborough, New Braintree, Oakham, Palmer, Saugus, South Hadley, Southampton, Southwick, Ware, Warren, West Boylston, and West Brookfield.

The unequivocal positive impact on these gateway communities was the one surprise for Della Penna in the report. “This is a way to focus on making these communities better,” he said. “The state can’t help you improve your house, but it can help you improve your community. This is an infrastructure project that improves communities, helps to improve health outcomes, and will generate a significant positive economic benefit.”

Evolution of a Trail

Trains running along the Massachusetts Central Railroad traveled between Boston and Northampton, serving residents and industry through the early 1900s, until struggles with maintenance, negotiations over ownership, and damage from the hurricane of 1938 led to the railway’s eventual decline.

The MCRT began to form in 1980 when the MBTA and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Management each purchased unused sections of the railroad corridor from the Boston & Maine Railroad.

The first section of the Mass Central Rail Trail was a segment called the Norwottuck Rail Trail. Completed in 1993, the Norwottuck Rail Trail segment between Northampton and Amherst was instantly popular.

“The state can’t help you improve your house, but it can help you improve your community. This is an infrastructure project that improves communities, helps to improve health outcomes, and will generate a significant positive economic benefit.”

In 1995, community leaders and volunteers in several Central Mass. communities formed Wachusett Greenways, a nonprofit with a goal to develop the Mass Central Rail Trail segment in the Wachusett region, including Sterling, West Boylston, Holden, Rutland, Oakham, and Barre. Their work inspired other communities to build their own sections of the MCRT corridor.

Kittelson & Associates said investments in multi-use trails throughout Massachusetts have provided meaningful economic and health benefits, and long-distance, continuous trails have greater impact. They attract through-cyclists and overnight visitors, which, in turn, results in increased spending on lodging and restaurants.

As part of its study, Kittelson & Associates surveyed current Mass Central Rail Trail users, receiving responses from more than 2,000 participants. These are among the findings:

• If the trail is completed, 26% of current users would use the MCRT for shopping, 16% to commute to work, 5% to commute to school, and 86% to access parks and other features;

• Ninety-three percent of respondents anticipate using the MCRT more frequently and traveling on the trail for longer distances; and

• Almost 50% would take a multi-day trip.

Other findings were based on economic and health results associated with use of the Erie Canalway Trail in New York and the Great Allegheny Passage in Maryland and Pennsylvania. These trails generate $253 million and $121 million per year, respectively, so the planners on the team of consultants estimate the MCRT could generate between $117 and $212 million annually.

“The MCRT shares many characteristics with these two trails, including similar tourism opportunities,” the report notes. “It would connect historic towns and improve access to outdoors destinations, such as rural areas outside of the Quabbin Reservoir area and in the Connecticut River Valley.”

The MCRT has an additional benefit in that it connects numerous rail trails in the Boston metropolitan area as well as Northampton and Amherst, which provide a second population anchor that will encourage travel along the completed route. One of the 18 trails that connects to the MCRT is the longest interstate rail trail in New England, the New Haven & Northampton Canal Greenway.

Broad Impact

Existing trail systems generate 1.3 million annual visits, with 15,000 overnight trips, giving Kittelson & Associates cause to estimate the completed MCRT would bring between 4.1 million and 5.5 million visitors, including 120,000 to 390,000 overnight visits.

Visitors to the existing MCRT currently spend about $19 million annually, and spending is expected to increase to between $74 million and $133 million annually for the completed MCRT.

The completed MCRT could also generate an increase of $87 million to $182 million from the economic activity associated with the existing sections of the MCRT, including up to roughly 1,500 new jobs, for total economic activity estimated at $117 million to $212 million.

Della Penna, a longtime advocate of rail-trail systems said of the study and next steps, “it’s big, and it’s ongoing.”

More than 10,000 volunteers across the state are involved in developing bicycle and pedestrian trails in the state. To read the report detailing the benefits of linking the undeveloped segments of the Mass Central Rail Trail into one unified multi-use trail across Massachusetts, and to learn more about the MCRT, visit masscentralrailtrail.org. To learn more about the Norwottuck Network, visit nnnetwork.net/about-us.

Methodology Changes on Form 5500 Will Impact Your Business

By Contributor June 23, 2023

Accounting and Tax Planning

Calling for a Recount

By Kara Graves, CPA

On Feb. 23, 2023, the Department of Labor, the IRS, and the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corp., in conjunction with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, released requirement changes to Form 5500, Annual Return/Report of Large Employee Benefit Plans, and Form 5500-SF, Annual Return/Report of Small Employee Benefit Plans.

There are many changes to Form 5500 for 2023. One of the more critical changes relates to how the participant count is calculated at the beginning of a plan year. The count is used to determine whether a plan requires an audit by an independent accountant. Typically, a benefit-plan audit is required for all large plans with more than 100 participants at the beginning of the plan year.

Old Rule

Before Jan. 1, 2023, the participant count included both active employees eligible to participate and terminated, vested employees with balances still in the plan. Using this calculation method, plans needed to include all employees currently employed and eligible for the plan, regardless of whether they were participating in the plan.

“Effective Jan. 1, 2023, plan sponsors will only need to consider participants (active and terminated) with account balances when calculating the number of participants at the beginning of the plan year. This means those active employees eligible to participate who have never contributed to the plan and/or received employer contributions will not be counted.”

Kara Graves

Under the old rule, an audit was required for a plan with 100 or more of both active employees eligible to participate and terminated, vested employees with account balances. Even if a plan had fewer than 100 participant accounts with balances, an audit could still be required due to the eligible and not-participating employees.

New Rule

Effective Jan. 1, 2023, plan sponsors will only need to consider participants (active and terminated) with account balances when calculating the number of participants at the beginning of the plan year. This means those active employees eligible to participate who have never contributed to the plan and/or received employer contributions will not be counted. As a result, some plans might be able to file as a small plan.

What’s Next?

Plan sponsors should be aware of these changes and review their plan counts closely with their third-party administrators under this new methodology for the 2023 plan year. Plans with fewer than 100 plan account balances as of Jan. 1, 2023 (for calendar-year-end plans) will not need an audit, even if they previously did under the old rules.

What does this mean for plans that are hovering around the 100 account-balance mark during 2023? If your plan has 100 or more participant account balances on Jan. 1, 2023 (calendar-year-end plans), an audit is still required for 2023, but there are some steps that can be taken to reduce plan participants for Jan. 1, 2024 (the next plan audit measurement date for calendar-year-end plans).

Plan sponsors should be reviewing terminated employees with participant account balances of $5,000 or less. The plan sponsor should review with their third-party administrator the existing plan provision that allows the plan to force out terminated participants with balances of $5,000 or less. This plan provision could be utilized to reduce the participants with balances, which could potentially remove the audit requirement in the future.

Kara Graves, CPA is a senior manager and the Employee Benefit Plan Audit Niche leader at the Holyoke-based accounting firm Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C.

Three Ways Financial-wellness Programs Boost the Bottom Line

By Contributor June 23, 2023

Insurance

Sound Investment

By Hub International

Financial wellness is no longer just being a nice thing for employees or a way to help recruiting and retention — it’s an important tool for improving profits.

The demand from the workforce is clear. A recent survey indicated only 42% of employees feel compensation has kept up with higher living expenses, compared with 52% a year earlier. The same survey indicates that 19% of employees are looking for a new job primarily to improve their compensation.

With numbers like these, a strong financial-wellness program can have a significant impact on your bottom line.

Here are three ways financial wellness can improve the bottom line:

1. It drives down the cost of turnover. Losing employees is an expensive proposition. While estimates vary, it can cost more than $4,000 to replace an employee in terms of upfront ‘hard’ costs, while in terms of other costs, the price can be in multiples of salary. In addition, organizations lose the institutional knowledge of an experienced worker, which drives turnover costs higher through training and loss of productivity.

At the same time, 65% of workers have felt stressed regarding their finances due to the COVID pandemic, leading to increased turnover and lower productivity. Among employees who feel financial worries have hurt their productivity, two-thirds are struggling to meet their household expenses. One-quarter have saved less than $1,000 for retirement; more than half plan to postpone their retirement.

Given the high cost of employee turnover, it’s in employers’ best interest to improve employee financial well-being. Student-loan debt-management plans and financial coaching can lessen young employees’ stress of paying the bills, while improved education on retirement planning will lessen workers’ fears of the future.

2. Financial wellness lowers stress and boosts morale. Financial wellness does far more than lower turnover: almost half of financially stressed employees say money worries have had a negative impact on their mental health.

Given the connection between financial wellness and mental health, employers can consider offering financial coaching alongside mental-health resources. Employees are likely to respond to one-on-one financial coaching via phone or video chat because of the personal and confidential nature of their financial issues.

3. It boosts productivity. Even when financial issues don’t take a toll on employees’ mental health, the stress still reduces productivity. About 40% of workers say they’d be more productive if they didn’t have to worry about their personal finances while on the job, and employees spend around one-quarter of their time at work coping with financial issues.

Employers who promote financial-wellness programs (HUB’s FinPath is but one example) can reap tangible gains in employee focus and productivity. Mandated education on budgeting, debt management, and building emergency savings shouldn’t be considered an expense or loss of productive time, but an investment in worker well-being that will have a long-term impact on the bottom line.

Episode 169: July 3, 2023

BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Hubert Benitez, president of American International College

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Episode 168: June 26, 2023

Joe Bednar Interviews Nicole Polite, CEO and Founder of MH Group

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