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Alexa Mignano

By
Healthcare Heroes

Healthcare Administration

Director of School-Based Clinical Services, River Valley Counseling Center

As a Leader, She Makes Sure Team Members Are Heard — and Valued

Alexa Mignano

Alexa Mignano

Like many in healthcare who have traded direct interaction with patients for roles in which they manage others who provide that care, Alexa Mignano found the transition somewhat challenging; stepping away from direct care is never easy.

But to say she has managed and is flourishing in her current role would be a real understatement.

As the director of School-Based Clinical Services (SBS) for River Valley Counseling Center, she now leads a team of more than 85 people. Since taking the helm in 2019, she has expanded the SBS program in dramatic fashion, taking it from two school districts to 11, providing behavioral healthcare to more than 1,600 students in more than 70 schools.

And this growth comes at a critical time.

Indeed, COVID-19 had a significant impact on the behavioral health of society as a whole, and especially young people. It also comes at a time when many young people are experiencing trauma and its many side effects, and when there are simply not enough clinicians, especially in non-school settings, to meet this need.

But behind the numbers, and these sentiments on growing need for behavioral-health services among young people, are the traits that Mignano brings to her role — traits that make her a Healthcare Hero in the Administration category.

“There are really difficult things that we hear about in this work that happen to children. And to be able to create some change and help them heal, and help families heal, is a way to give back to my community.”

These include passion for her work, strong leadership skills, an ability to build teamwork and camaraderie, a willingness to listen and maintain an open mind, and the ability to inspire others to reach higher and deeper as they go about their work and serve this important constituency.

These are traits that come clearly into focus in the thoughts of team members and others who came together to nominate her for the Healthcare Heroes award.

“The SBS is a connected, warm, passionate, and energetic team, which has accomplished amazing things in our school system,” said Elaine Campbell, assistant executive director and clinical director at River Valley. “This team is spread out across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, and Alexa brings them together and unifies them as a collaborative unit. Alexa engages the team and brings them together for various events and trainings throughout the year to build support and community amongst the team.”

Alexa Mignano says trained clinicians offering care right in the schools

Alexa Mignano says trained clinicians offering care right in the schools provides consistency for the kids, which translates into better care.

Emma Cohen, an SBS clinician, added that “Alexa is — and consistently has been — an amazing leader. She always manages to support our whole team, work hard to help each and every one of us, and make sure we’re providing the best care we can to our clients.

“Alexa truly makes our program great — she is always open to new ideas, makes sure everyone has space to feel heard, and helps us make a large and complex program run smoothly,” she went on. “Alexa is an incredible example of a leader, an advocate for both her employees and the people we serve, and an overall wonderful person to work for.”

If one looks up the definition of ‘leader,’ especially in a healthcare sector, these are the words and phrases that will come up. And that’s what Mignano has become — a true leader.

And while she misses providing direct care to clients, she said that, as a manager, she can actually have a bigger impact and touch the lives of more young people in need of critical help.

“What’s so cool about what we do, the schools that we’re in … the kids know us, therapy’s cool, and more kids want to come see us. They’re not afraid to get help.”

“This is the classic very rewarding job,” she told BusinessWest. “There are really difficult things that we hear about in this work that happen to children. And to be able to create some change and help them heal, and help families heal, is a way to give back to my community.”

Such sentiments explain not only why she loves what she does, but why she’s a Healthcare Hero.

 

Taking the Lead

Since the Healthcare Heroes recognition program was created in 2017, its Administration category has been perhaps the most competitive.

There are several nominations each year, and to stand out in these crowded fields, one must be more than a manager. He or she must also be a leader, someone who displays those skills and traits mentioned above.

In short, those that prevail in this category, often providers of care themselves at various points in their careers, are able to motivate and, for lack of a better phrase, get all the members of a team to row in the same direction. And their strongest trait might be an ability to not only listen, but make team members understand that they are being heard.

Mignano brings all this and more to a role she’s grown into after taking a somewhat winding road into healthcare and, more specifically, behavioral healthcare.

Indeed, this is a second career for her. She was working at UMass Amherst, doing academic advising and first-year-experience work. She enjoyed that role, but with a young daughter, she needed something that provided more flexibility.

“So I decided to go with what my degree was originally in, which was mental-health counseling,” she said. “And then I fell in love with it.”

That’s another understatement.

Eventually, she started providing therapy to children in schools, was hired by Holyoke-based River Valley Counseling Center, and worked at Holyoke High School and Kelly Elementary School. She ended up going back to school so she could get licensed.

“It was a perfect match for what I wanted,” she went on. “And I felt like I was good at it; I was very interested in how children’s brains change over time, especially when they’ve been exposed to trauma, and how you can heal that and shift that.”

Mignano worked as a counselor for eight years before transitioning into administration, first in a few school districts and, eventually, as director of School-Based Clinical Services.

This is a position with a broad job description that includes everything from overseeing partnerships with school districts and charter schools in the area to hiring, training, and, most importantly, supporting the clinicians that go into schools and provide outpatient therapy to young people coping with a wide array of issues and conditions.

“There’s a lot of trauma,” she noted. “I’d say about 25 to 30% of our cases are focused on trauma. There’s depression, anxiety, ADHD … there’s really a wide range.”

As they help students deal with these issues, the counselors become trusted and accepted, and at a time when students need help, they seem increasingly willing to embrace it.

“I have been in the field for more than 20 years, and Alexa is the most caring, supportive supervisor I have ever had.”

“What’s so cool about what we do, the schools that we’re in … the kids know us, therapy’s cool, and more kids want to come see us,” she told BusinessWest. “They’re not afraid to get help. The stigma is removed quite a bit, especially in the younger grades. When they get to high school, they want to feel a little bit more private, but even there, we’ve become part of the school, and part of what happens at school is that you also get help for your mental-health problems.”

And dissipation of this stigma is an important step forward, she went on.

“Kids are not afraid to say they need support,” she noted. “I mean, I think there’s a lot of emphasis on that in social media — that it’s OK to speak out and say what’s going on and ask for help. But they also get to see it in their school environment, and it gets normalized. It’s not some random place they go to get services and to get support. They do it in a place they’re really familiar with, and I think that helps with breaking down some of the shame or embarrassment that they might feel about getting support; their friends are getting help.”

 

School of Thought

In short, school-based services are enjoying large levels of success. And thanks to Mignano’s leadership and drive, they are enjoying success in many more ZIP codes.

“I wanted more people to focus in on treating children, so I started supervising and providing support to other clinicians doing the work,” she said, adding that she initiated efforts to coordinate a contract with the Easthampton School District and oversaw the program there before becoming director of all school-based services, with a commitment to continue adding more districts.

“We started with a few, and then I was like … no, we can do more,” she went on. “And the word started to spread, so I started meeting with different superintendents and principals and talking about what we do. And then, a real focus of mine became cultivating a group of therapists that really wanted to be child-focused or adolescent-focused, supporting them in that work. And it’s just a win-win for everybody in terms of how it’s set up.”

As noted earlier, there are now 11 districts in the fold, and Mignano believes there is room for more expansion, especially since the hiring challenges brought on the pandemic are mostly in the rearview mirror.

“I always say we’re done, and then a principal calls,” she said. “I’ve always wanted to expand responsibly; whenever we add a new school district, we add the infrastructure to support the consistency, the supervision, the communication … that’s critical in making these programs work.”

Beyond these expansion efforts, her leadership has brought consistency and steady improvement to existing programs, with the school setting becoming an increasingly effective place for young people to receive therapy because it removes barriers to care.

“I know I’m biased, but I’ve seen it work,” she said. “As a clinician, I’ve seen it work incredibly well, and now I see it at this end. It works for the kids, it works for the schools because they have some added support, and it works for the clinicians who want to focus on kids, but they don’t want to necessarily work every single evening to do that. They get to have a normal schedule too, so it works for everybody.”

And Mignano is committed to making sure it works for everybody.

“As an administrator, I’ve really been focused on how to create a work environment for mental-health professionals that feels really supportive, so they feel challenged, they feel valued, because ultimately that is the foundation of retaining clinicians,” she explained. “Because we get to train them, they get to grow clinically with us, and that translates into consistency for the kids, which translates into better care for the kids. As an administrator, I focus a lot on that — what type of environment are we creating? And people stay with us.”

Which brings us back to some of the team members who nominated her — and why.

“Alexa is an incredible leader, clinician, advocate, and supervisor,” said Catherine Vaughan, assistant director of School-Based Services. “She is truly passionate about the work we do and gives her all in everything that she does. She also encourages her co-workers to go outside their comfort zones with their work, and she is always there supporting and guiding them along the way. I am so grateful to be a part of her team.”

Lisa Smith O’Connor, an SBS clinician, agreed. “I have been in the field for more than 20 years, and Alexa is the most caring, supportive supervisor I have ever had,” she said. “She is an expert in our field, but also an amazing supervisor. I agreed to become a supervisor and commit to this agency long-term due to her caring and thoughtful support and guidance.”

All that certainly helps explain why Mignano has earned another title: Healthcare Hero.

Margaret King

By
Healthcare Heroes

Healthcare Provider

Occupational Therapist, Baystate Medical Center

She Brings Passion, Compassion to Her Work in the NICU

Margaret King

Margaret King

As she talked about her work as an occupational therapist in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Baystate Medical Center, and why she believes she was “born” to be in this setting, no pun intended, Margaret King flashed back almost 40 years.

As King tells the story, she and her mother were visiting her father, then a patient in a hospital in Texas, when her mother suggested they swing by the maternity unit and look at the newborns. And they did.

“I lit up, and I clearly remember my mother saying, ‘you should work with babies someday — I think you’d be really good at it,’” she recalled. “I have carried that with me, and I truly feel like this is what I was put on this Earth to do.

“I feel like I have the best job in the world,” she went on. “It’s a privilege to be able to do this work; these babies … they just melt your heart.”

King, a Healthcare Hero in the Provider category, has worked as an OT in pediatrics, and mostly in the NICU, for most of her career, and at Baystate for the past 16 years. And while this unit — for babies born prematurely (as many as 10-12 weeks prematurely) and babies with serious medical conditions — is not what most people think of when they hear the words ‘occupational therapist,’ there are many aspects to this assignment, she told BusinessWest.

“Occupational therapy, by definition, is about improving someone’s ability to participate in life skills,” she said. “Those are the jobs of living that we refer to, and a baby has jobs of living, too. They need to be able to grow correctly; they need to be able to sleep and rest because that’s also how they grow; they need to be able to eat, whether that’s bottle or breastfeeding; and they need to be able to bond with their parents.”

As she helps newborns with these jobs, King works in concert with other professionals in the NICU to essentially bring light to a unit kept dark to replicate conditions in the womb.

And, according to those King works beside, she is the consummate team player — supportive, always positive, and often serving as a mentor to younger OTs and other professionals.

“Maggie is known for her smile, kindness, patience, and resilience,” said Erin Jarosz, Rehabilitation manager for Baystate Health, who nominated her for this honor. “She is passionate about her care for babies, and she works closely with families to be able to best support the physiological needs of their babies and improve the babies’ abilities to participate in daily life activities.”

Olivia Fernandes, a Baystate Rehabilitation speech pathologist, agreed.

“Not only is Maggie a phenomenal clinician, she truly is a wonderful person,” Fernandes said. “She is a leader within our department and treats everyone with respect and kindness. I have looked up to her throughout my time at Baystate as I always value her guidance and advice.”

These qualities resonate not only with co-workers, but also with the parents and other family members of NICU patients, none of whom expected their child to be in this unit and all of whom agonize over each day spent there.

“This is not where they wanted to be — they didn’t want to meet me or anyone else in the NICU, so you have to start from there,” said King, adding that the unique setting, coupled with the emotional nature of the work, leads to relationships that last for years after the baby has gone home.

“I run into so many parents at the grocery stores, Target, places like that,” she went on. “That’s always sweet; that was such a unique, difficult time for them, and that’s why we become family to them during that stressful time, so it’s exciting to see them.”

King was — and still is — a part of hundreds of families across the region, families touched by her passion, warmth, and competence. Families who would say she is more than worthy of being called a Healthcare Hero.

 

Baby Steps

Whenever a baby goes home from the NICU, it’s an event, a celebration, King said. “It’s always a big thing, especially for the parents. And for me, if I’ve worked with them a lot, it’s just a very exciting day.”

And when a baby who has been there several months leaves those confines, there’s an even bigger sendoff, with pom-poms and the theme from Rocky playing in the background, a nod to the perseverance and fighting spirit of that child — and his or her family.

“She is passionate about her care for babies, and she works closely with families to be able to best support the physiological needs of their babies and improve the babies’ abilities to participate in daily life activities.”

King said it happens regularly, sometimes a few times a day. But it never, ever gets old.

“There’s lot of tears and hugs,” she noted. “Every situation in the NICU is meaningful and challenging, but some of those babies have been here for months, and it’s a big feat to get out of here.”

Helping babies ‘get out of here’ might be King’s unofficial job description — and, as she noted earlier, work she was born to do, even if it took a while to realize that.

Maggie King, center, with Rebecca Hillenbrand, left, and NICU Manager Stephanie Adam

Maggie King, center, with Rebecca Hillenbrand, left, and NICU Manager Stephanie Adam, has been called the consummate team player.

Indeed, she did a music-therapy internship while in high school, and during that time, she pulled an occupational-therapy journal out of the trash and remembers saying, “what’s this?”

“I starting learning about occupational therapy and really never looked back,” she said, adding that she focused on that specialty while studying at Texas Tech. She started in Texas, first in adult rehab and then pediatrics, but eventually relocated to New England (and Baystate) to be closer to family.

And for most of her career, the NICU has been … well, home.

It’s a unique setting, obviously, one where the patients are small, cannot talk — although they can certainly communicate — and, in many cases, their eyes are not yet open.

But they still need occupational therapy, and King loves to talk about that subject.

“Even when babies that are tiny — the 23-weekers — one of my jobs is to help with the positioning of that baby so their arms, legs, and bodies grow properly, but also in a way that keeps them calm so they can sleep and keep their vital signs stable so they can be medically well,” she explained.

“I love working with adults, and the main difference with them is that you can communicate with them and have a give and take, and they can work on following directions. With babies, you have to be really good at following their cues to know what they like and what they don’t like.”

With premature babies, she noted — and, really, all babies in the NICU — she and other team members work to keep those babies in the same position they would be in if they were still in the womb.

“As an occupational therapist, I provide positioning aids that we put the babies in to provide support and containment — we try to recreate the womb,” she explained, adding that this is why it’s kept dark in the unit. “For babies, looking at the light is very stressful; it can actually raise their blood pressure and elevate their heart rate, just because it’s too light. And it’s my job to protect babies from those stressors.”

There are many other aspects to this work beyond positioning, she said, listing everything from supporting the baby during painful procedures, such as putting in an IV, to help with feeding, which is obviously a large part of her work.

When asked what she likes about OT, King said it’s the ability to “work on a little bit of everything with a person, things that are meaningful to them, things that are necessary for life, and you get to establish relationships with people. It’s very unique, and it’s special, and you get to give a lot of yourself to make things happen.”

She stressed that all that is true even if the patient is a few days old and/or several weeks premature.

“I love working with adults, and the main difference with them is that you can communicate with them and have a give and take, and they can work on following directions,” she explained. “With babies, you have to be really good at following their cues to know what they like and what they don’t like.”

Maggie King says there are anywhere from 30 to 50 babies in the NICU at any given time

Maggie King says there are anywhere from 30 to 50 babies in the NICU at any given time.

They don’t like light, and they’re also put off by sounds, everything from phones ringing to isolette doors closing, she said. “Just small sounds to us can be painful to these babies, and we know that because of their vital signs.”

And while her primary work is with patients, King is also there for parents and other family members, who are obviously under a good deal of stress.

Parents of NICU babies are not ‘visitors,’ per se, as in a traditional hospital setting; they can come whenever they want and stay as long as they want.

“We do encourage parents to have rest breaks, take a walk, go get some lunch, maybe go home,” she said, adding that helping parents through this extremely difficult time is just one of myriad rewards that come with this job.

 

Born Leader

King told BusinessWest that the tiny patients in the NICU — there are between 30 and 50 at any given time — stay in that unit anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on how prematurely they were born or the severity of their condition. But the relationships forged with those patients and their parents last for years, if not decades.

Indeed, in addition to the yearly holiday cards she receives from the families she’s worked with, there are pictures sent as those former patients grow older, as well as invitations to their birthday parties — a steady stream of them, actually.

So many that King “sets boundaries,” as she put it. “I’ll go to a few of them. If I went to all of them, I’d be going to about 50 birthday parties a month.”

King is on those birthday-party invite lists because parents remember her, and they remember all that she brought to the NICU every day, from her competence to her passion to the smile that seems permanently etched on her face.

Those she works with see these same things every day, and they consider her the consummate team player: supportive, encouraging, and, in many ways, a mentor.

“Maggie has been consistently supportive and proactive in helping me work in this challenging, rewarding setting,” said Dan Lemaire, another Baystate Rehabilitation OT. “The NICU is, after all, an intensive-care unit; the patients are very involved medically, and Maggie’s experience and guidance has been essential to me in navigating this practice area. She has helped me understand an OT’s role amidst highly trained nurses, neonatologists, and other specialists. She has shown sensitivity and awareness regarding my skill level and readiness to approach different patients, and has guided me to appropriate training resources. Not least of all, Maggie is simply fun to work with.”

Upon reading or hearing such comments, one thing becomes abundantly clear: Maggie King’s mother, who died just a few years after that visit to the maternity ward in that Texas hospital, was right. Her daughter is really, really good at this, meaning work not just with babies, but babies in an intensive-care unit — and with parents who are under more stress than perhaps at any other time in their lives.

In such a setting, someone must bring to their job passion and compassion, and they need to bring it every day.

Maggie King does, and that’s why she’s a Healthcare Hero.

Peta-Gaye Johnson

By
Healthcare Heroes

Collaboration in Health and Wellness

Director of Healthcare Workforce Initiatives, MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board

She Helps Put Future Healthcare Heroes into the Pipeline

Peta-Gaye Johnson

Peta-Gaye Johnson

Peta-Gaye Johnson is not your typical Healthcare Hero.

Indeed, in the eight-year history of this recognition program, there hasn’t been an honoree quite like her.

She’s not a provider of care, like a doctor, nurse, or occupational therapist, and she’s not an administrator in a healthcare facility; in fact, she’s never worked in the healthcare sector. Nor does she teach those who want to enter this profession, as several honorees, including two in the class of 2024, do.

But as the director of Healthcare Workforce Initiatives for the Hampden County Workforce Board, she works with administrators, educators, and others to help ensure that there is a reliable pipeline of workers — and, yes, potential Healthcare Heroes — for this sector.

Thus, “she has been the cornerstone for driving successful workforce-development programming to strengthen the region’s workforce and enhance the quality of patient care,” said Peter Farkas, who became president and CEO of the MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board earlier this year and nominated Johnson for this award.

Johnson is the winner in the Collaboration category, specifically for her efforts to foster collaboration — between the region’s larger healthcare providers, its colleges and universities, community-based organizations, and philanthropic agencies — and, in many respects, to lead these collaborative efforts.

They include:

• The Healthcare Workforce Partnership of Western Massachusetts, a MassHire inititive that, through Johnson’s leadership, responds to the workforce needs of employers and ensures that workers have access to the education and training needed to prepare them for lifelong careers in a changing industry;

• The Western Massachusetts Nursing Collaborative (WMNC), one of three working groups within the partnership — the others are the Allied Health Working Group and the Pioneer Valley Interprofessional Practice and Education Collaborative — and one that has made great strides to ensure that the region has an adequate supply of nurses;

• A website called westernmasshealthcareers.org, which Johnson developed to provide area residents with relevant information on occupations and career pathways in the healthcare industry;

• The Pioneer Valley Healthcare Center Pathway Forum, an annual event that brings together high-school guidance counselors from across the region to provide them with information to assist and direct students to enroll in and successfully complete health science programs; and

• Her work to oversee and drive a three-year grant to train 174 unemployed and underemployed individuals in the Pioneer Valley for careers as medical assistants, EMTs, recovery coaches, and behavioral resource technicians.

Summing up all these initiatives and Johnson’s involvement with them, Farkas said it’s not necessarily what she does for this sector — the largest employer in the Pioneer Valley, with roughly 73,000 jobs — that makes her a Healthcare Hero, although that’s certainly part of it. It’s how she goes about this work.

“She’s very passionate about the industry, and she’s a leader when it comes to driving the agenda,” he said, adding that it is her job to not just convene the partners working with the workforce board, but to help them set goals and objectives and then create strategies to meet and, hopefully, exceed them. “She’s a good listener and helps build consensus.”

Using these skills, she’s helped area providers address recognized shortages when it comes to many occupations within this broad sector, including nurses, CNAs (certified nurse aides), home health aides, medical assistants, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), and others.

“Before, it was mostly about numbers. Now, it’s beyond numbers — it’s about how people feel about their work, the appreciation they feel for the work they’re providing for the community.”

Beyond that, the collaboratives she leads address myriad other workforce-related issues, from retention of valued workers, to the different generations working together in healthcare and how the wants and needs of each one is different, to the seismic changes that came about during, and because of, the pandemic.

She said the region, and its healthcare sector are still experiencing a workforce crisis, but one where the parameters — and priorities — are shifting.

“Before, it was mostly about numbers,” she said. “Now, it’s beyond numbers — it’s about how people feel about their work, the appreciation they feel for the work they’re providing for the community.”

Johnson said her work is rewarding on many levels, and when asked what she likes most about, she said simply “the collaboration piece.”

“That’s the one thing I’m really excited about,” she told BusinessWest. “The people who are part of our collaboratives are leaders of our collaboratives, so when anything comes up I can reach out to these people, and I always get a ‘yes’ — no matter what it, no matter what I ask them to do, I always get a ‘yes.’

Peta-Gaye Johnson (first row, center) with the other members of the Western Massachusetts Nursing Collaborative.

Peta-Gaye Johnson (first row, center) with the other members of the Western Massachusetts Nursing Collaborative.

Elaborating, she said the stern workforce challenges facing this sector require collaborative efforts — individuals sharing information and experiences and working together to meet agreed upon goals — and she is inspired by the way these groups go about their work.

Meanwhile, others are inspired by her efforts to lead these collaboratives and address challenges old and new. And this is why she is a different kind of Healthcare Hero.

 

Hire Education

1. Increase retention in all healthcare settings;

2. Ensure nurses have comptetencies and full scope of practice to meet the healthcare needs of the community;

3. Increase the number of nurses with advanced degrees;

4. Increase nursing faculty in Western Mass.;

5. Increase the diversity of the nursing workforce; and

6. Sustain the partnership.

These are the stated strategic goals and objectives of the WMNC, and they, and the progress made toward achieving them, are reviewed at each monthly meeting, said Johnson, adding that this is just one of many meetings, most of them now by Zoom, that she attends on a regular basis.

Meetings are just a small but important part of her job description, she said, adding that such sessions help keep the many agencies and institutions partnering with the workforce board focused on goals like those stated above.

And these goals provide some real insight into how Johnson and all those she works with keep one eye on the present when it comes to the workforce needs of the region and the healthcare providers that call it home, and the other eye on the future.

“We try to project what our future needs will be and address those needs before they come,” she said, adding that this proactive approach helps ensure an adequate pipeline of workers across the broad spectrum of healthcare and social services.

Peta-Gaye Johnson and members of the Western Massachusetts Nursing Collaborative

Peta-Gaye Johnson and members of the Western Massachusetts Nursing Collaborative celebrate the WMNC’s 16th-year celebration lunch.

Filling this proverbial pipeline is just part of the job description for Johnson, who came to the workforce board 13 years ago. She started as an intern while working toward a master’s degree in social work at UConn, and took part in the Hasbro Summer Learning Initiative. She was hired by then-President and CEO Bill Ward, working part-time on the summer learning initiative and part-time with Kelly Aiken, then-director of Healthcare Workforce Initiatives.

When Aiken left for another opportunity in 2016, Johnson was encouraged to apply for her position. She did, won the job, and has flourished in it ever since.

Over the past nine years, she has certainly learned a lot about the healthcare sector and its challenges, but she’s learned much more, she said, about workforce development and all that goes into it, especially partnerships and efforts to work collaboratively.

The WMNC is a good example. It’s a large board — 17 people — representing the nine colleges and universities in the region with nursing programs, as well as five service partners (Baystate Health, Caring Health Center, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Holyoke Medical Center, and Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center) and the Western Massachusetts Black Nurses Assoc., the Massachusetts Senior Care Assoc., and MassHire.

It met three or four times a month during COVID to address the myriad challenges it created and exacerbated, but has settled back to once a month.

By convening these partners, Johnson is able to help gauge their needs, understand their challenges, and lead the group to finding solutions together, said Farkas, using the WMNC as an example.

“Bringing together that group monthly … I would say that’s helpful just for them to hear from each other in terms of their struggles and successes,” he noted. “It’s not different than most people’s jobs — you can get in silos. Just to talk as a group helps; people say, ‘this is what’s working for us.’ Hearing from your peers is invaluable. Peta-Gaye’s ability to drive collaboration and consensus amongst diverse stakeholders has positively impacted the region’s healthcare workforce.”

 

Work in Progress

As noted earlier, Johnson’s work, and that of the partnership, involves meeting the healthcare sector’s needs today — and tomorrow.

When it comes to today, as she mentioned earlier, the challenges of the workforce crisis extend beyond sheer numbers. There are also issues with retention and adjusting to changing dynamics in the workplace, and especially in healthcare settings.

“For every person, COVID helped them to reassess the work they were doing,” she explained. “And one of the things we talk about in our groups now is the fact that the people coming into the workplace today are much different from those who entered previously; the generational shift is real, and it’s happening.

“Before, people committed a lot more of their time to work — that’s not the case anymore,” Johnson went on. “Conversations that we’re having most recently in our groups center on the fact that people want work to match their lifestyle, and hospitals have to deal with that; they have to deal with people who want to work as little as possible and receive as many benefits as possible. And on the other end, they have to deal with that increase in violence toward healthcare workers.”

As for the future, efforts include everything from introducing young people to the many career opportunities in healthcare early — as in middle school — to the website westernmasshealthcareers.org, which helps visitors gain an understanding of the many careers in this sector, how to pursue them, and the degree offerings at area colleges and universities.

“One of the things that our leaders have identified is the fact that recruitment doesn’t start with people entering high school — we go all the way back to middle school,” she explained. “We run programs with middle-school-aged students to talk with them about to expect and what the journey is like so they’re prepared academically.”

Elaborating, Johnson said young people have, historically, heard about the benefits and rewards of a career in healthcare; what they need is the full picture.

“One of the biggest obstacles that we identified years ago is that students are not necessarily prepared academically, whether it’s math or science,” she noted. “But on the other side of it, what many people do not consider is what healthcare looks like, the fact that it is very demanding. It doesn’t just mean providing care to people who are ill or wounded; it means making them feel comfortable.”

As she talks about these issues and challenges and how they are being addressed, Johnson will always use the collective ‘we’ or ‘our groups.’

She does so to stress that these are complicated issues that must be addressed collectively. For that to happen, the region needs a leader and a convener, someone to bring people together and, as Farkas noted, “drive the agenda.”

That someone is Johnson, whose tireless work to forge partnerships and address matters through collaboration makes her a Healthcare Hero.

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. Welcomes Allison Gaynor, Jalaysia Isaac

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) announced two new hires: Allison Gaynor, administrative assistant, and Jalaysia Isaac, Audit and Accounting associate.

Allison Gaynor

Gaynor comes to MBK with more than 30 years of experience in the administrative world. Her role at the firm is vital to ensuring smooth workflow, and her approach tactic to customer service is to always offer a helping hand and a warm smile. “Allison’s addition to the admin team has quickly brought a vibrant energy to the firm,” Partner Kristi Reale said.

Gaynor is not limited only to her administrative roles, but has a creative world outside work life. She is the founder of the Jammie Jingle drive and has established roots in the community for the past 10 years, collecting pajamas for children and adults and donating them in time for the holiday season. She flourishes in community involvement and is excited to take part in the community-service branch at MBK.

Jalaysia Isaac

Isaac brings her fresh perspective to her engagements as a recent college graduate and believes that customer service starts with listening to the client and their needs. “We are confident that Jalaysia will be a key asset to the core relationships with our clients” Partner Howard Cheney said.

Isaac received her bachelor’s degree in accounting and management from Elms College. She is also a member of CPAmerica and the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants. She is eager to continue growing as an accountant to best help her team and clients succeed.

Country Bank Promotes Julie Sanders Yi to Chief Financial Officer

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank President and CEO Mary McGovern announced the promotion of Julie Sanders Yi to chief financial officer. Having joined Country Bank in 2012 as first vice president and controller, she has made significant contributions to the Finance department. Her exceptional performance led to her promotion in 2021 to senior vice president, where she demonstrated her ability to drive results in the Operations department as well.

She brings a wealth of experience to her new role, with 23 years in various roles in finance. She graduated from the University of Nevada Las Vegas with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and is a certified public accountant.

“Julie’s promotion to chief financial officer is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional leadership and expertise,” said Mary McGovern, president and CEO of Country Bank. “Throughout her tenure at Country Bank, Julie has consistently demonstrated her commitment to excellence and ability to drive results. She is a role model for our corporate values of integrity, service, teamwork, excellence, and prosperity. Her deep understanding of finance and strategic mindset, which will guide us into the future, make her the ideal candidate for this critical role.”

As chief financial officer, Sanders Yi will oversee all financial operations of Country Bank, including financial planning and analysis, budgeting, and financial reporting. She will drive the bank’s financial strategy and ensure long-term financial stability.

“I am honored and excited to take on the role of chief financial officer at Country Bank,” she said. “I am grateful for Mary’s trust and confidence in me. I look forward to working closely with the talented team at Country Bank to continue driving our success and delivering value to our customers.”

Carr Hardware Announces Downtown Pittsfield Store Remodel

By
Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Carr Hardware announced a major investment in its downtown Pittsfield location, which will undergo a $400,000 remodel this fall. The project underscores Carr Hardware’s commitment to the community and its confidence in the future of downtown Pittsfield.

The remodel will be completed with all local contractors, highlighting the dedication and appreciation Carr Hardware has for supporting fellow local businesses and contributing to the local economy.

The store will remain open through the remodel. With plans to expand and diversify products, customers will have a wider range of shopping opportunities. The newly remodeled store aims to enhance the shopping experience for customers while preserving the store’s welcoming and friendly atmosphere.

UMass Amherst Celebrates Start of Construction on New SPHHS Hub

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Daily News

AMHERST — UMass Amherst hosted state and local leaders this week to celebrate the start of construction for a new $43 million School of Public Health and Health Sciences (SPHHS) hub. The 26,000-square-foot structure will serve as the heart of SPHHS, which currently has its six departments housed in seven locations around campus.

Construction of the new facility, at the corner of North Pleasant Street and Eastman Lane adjacent to the Totman Gymnasium, commenced in May and is scheduled to be complete in December 2025.

SPHHS houses some of the university’s fastest-growing programs focused on pressing public-health problems, as well as cross-cutting issues such as obesity and diabetes prevention, women’s health, global health, aging and healthy living, and autism-spectrum disorders. Currently, 88% of SPHHS graduates stay in Massachusetts, improving the quality of life in community settings where they work, including hospitals, laboratories, health departments, and community health and well-being programs.

UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes said the new facility will serve not only as a centralized location for SPHHS students, faculty, and staff to come together as a community, but also as a space to engage with and connect members of the local community.

“By strengthening the connection between our people and our place — our students and our community — we will help to ensure that our next generation of public-health leaders continue to stay in Massachusetts to live, work, and thrive in the years to come,” he noted.

SPHHS Dean Anna Maria Siega-Riz said the new facility will feature flexible, team-based learning classrooms, office space, time-shared cubicles, conferencing facilities, and open areas designed for informal work and collaboration. Additionally, the hub will include an outdoor event space to complement the interior academic program spaces to allow SPHHS to host a wide variety of outdoor events.

As an energy-efficient and sustainable facility, the SPHHS hub will aim to exceed the minimum certification level of LEED Silver, in keeping with UMass Amherst’s position as a sustainability leader in the Commonwealth. The building was designed by Boston-based Leers Weinzapfel Associates.

Picture This

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Pictured, from left: Robin Wysicki, Joani Arroyo, Tracy Dowd, Jimmy Kopie, and Kim Cooney in front of a fennec fox enclosure at Forest Park Zoo.
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Sprucing Up the Zoo

A group of Health New England employees helped out on Aug. 23 at the Zoo in Forest Park as part of Health New England’s summer volunteer efforts with United Way of Pioneer Valley.  They helped stain around the fox exhibit and lemur stage and cleaned out and organized a shed. This summer, Health New England employees also helped stuff backpacks, manned a thrift store, served lunch to people without homes, and helped the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

Pictured, from left: Robin Wysicki, Joani Arroyo, Tracy Dowd, Jimmy Kopie, and Kim Cooney in front of a fennec fox enclosure at Forest Park Zoo.

Pictured, from left: Robin Wysicki, Joani Arroyo, Tracy Dowd, Jimmy Kopie, and Kim Cooney in front of a fennec fox enclosure at Forest Park Zoo.

 

 

Back to School in Style

On Aug. 20, a team of Marcotte Ford employees and board members visited the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke to surprise the children with a gift of 300 new pairs of Adidas sneakers. The gift was extra resonant for the management team, as the basketball court at the Boys & Girls Club is named for the late Bryan Marcotte, the dealership’s second-generation owner.

On Aug. 20, a team of Marcotte Ford employees and board members visited the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke to surprise the children with a gift of 300 new pairs of Adidas sneakers.

On Aug. 20, a team of Marcotte Ford employees and board members visited the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Holyoke to surprise the children with a gift of 300 new pairs of Adidas sneakers.

 

 

 

Driving Innovation

Kayla Sheridan, Marketing director at TommyCar Auto Group, was honored as a finalist and presented at the Reynolds and Reynolds Automotive Amplifier Contest on Aug. 20 in Leesburg, Va. This event, known for highlighting the most innovative minds and ideas in the automotive industry, provided a platform for leaders to share insights and advancements that are shaping the future of the field. Sheridan’s presentation showcased her dedication to driving innovation and excellence in automotive retail, particularly at TommyCar. Although not selected as one of the overall winners, her work was highly regarded by industry experts.

Kayla Sheridan, Marketing director at TommyCar Auto Group, was honored as a finalist and presented at the Reynolds and Reynolds Automotive Amplifier Contest on Aug. 20 in Leesburg, Va

Kayla Sheridan, Marketing director at TommyCar Auto Group, was honored as a finalist and presented at the Reynolds and Reynolds Automotive Amplifier Contest on Aug. 20 in Leesburg, Va

 

 

Agenda

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Agenda

MCLA Constitution and Citizenship Day Lecture

Sept. 17: MCLA will host the annual Constitution and Citizenship Day with a presentation for students and community members at 4 p.m. in Murdock Hall, Room 218. The presentation, “Understanding the Electoral College: Insights into 2024’s Presidential Election,” will be led by MCLA Associate Professor of Political Science Samantha Pettey. The lecture is free and open to the public. Pettey will explore the historical origins and current controversies of the Electoral College, including the disparity between the popular vote and electoral outcomes and the influence of swing states. It will also cover best practices for interpreting polling data to help students and attendees critically analyze ‘hot-take’ headlines. A Q&A session addressing these topics and others will follow the presentation. This lecture is designed to empower students of democracy with the knowledge to understand and influence elections. Pettey has been interested in politics from a young age and has worked in the History and Political Science Department at MCLA since 2016. She teaches a range of courses on American government but is most passionate about teaching and researching Congress, state and local politics, and women in politics. Her current research focuses broadly on female candidates. She is particularly interested in the impact institutional features and demographic characteristics have on state-level candidate emergence and success.

 

Paragus Firehouse Cook Off

Sept. 17: Polar Park in Worcester will host the third annual Paragus Firehouse Cook Off. Last year, the event, presented by Paragus I.T., drew more than 300 people to Polar Park and raised $20,000 for the Worcester Firefighters 6K charity. This year, the event will also raise funds for DetecTogether, a nonprofit that promotes early cancer detection in young adults, first responders, and workplace employees. For the Paragus Firehouse Cook Off, firehouses from around the city create dishes to be judged by a panel of local business leaders. This year’s judges will be Niche Hospitality President Michael Covino, Worcester Red Sox Coordinator of Public and Community Relations Katie Siegle, Worcester Wares founder Jessica Walsh, and Fontaine Bros. CEO Dave Fontaine. In addition to the Judge’s Prize, there is a People’s Choice Prize based on a vote taken among event attendees. The event will be hosted by Mike Hsu and Radio Worcester’s Hank Stolz. Harpoon Brewery will hold a free beer tasting for attendees. There will also be pies donated by Table Talk and seltzer donated by Polar Beverages. The event begins at 5 p.m. Tickets cost $30 for the general public and $25 for firefighters and their families, with children under 10 admitted free. A ticket entitles entrants to a Harpoon beer tasting, a Table Talk pie, Polar seltzer, and samples of all the dishes. After covering expenses, all funds raised will be donated to the Worcester Firefighters 6K charity and DetecTogether. Tickets are available at firehousecookoff.com.

 

Amherst BID Block Party

Sept. 19: The Amherst Business Improvement District (BID) announced its 11th annual block party will take place from 5 to 9 p.m. on North Pleasant Street in downtown Amherst. This community event promises an evening of fun, entertainment, and celebration of all things Amherst. The annual block party draws thousands of residents and visitors. This year’s event will feature a lineup of live music and performances, showcasing local talent. Attendees can look forward to aerialists, acrobats, stilt walkers, jugglers, and a variety of street performers that will delight audiences of all ages.

 

Party for a Purpose

Sept. 19: With the goal of making sure Square One’s children have a new, state-of-the-art, outdoor learning and playspace, Friends on a Mission will host its annual Party for a Purpose to raise funds for the playground project at Square One’s Tommie Johnson Child & Family Center in Springfield. Now in its second year, Friends on a Mission started with a trio of friends — Bob Perry, Walter Tomala, and the late Jenn Schimmel — who set out to spend time together while giving back to the community. Their inaugural event held last fall raised more than $38,000 for Make-A-Wish of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With early sponsorship support from PeoplesBank and Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., this year’s Party for a Purpose, featuring cocktails, food, and festivities, will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Delaney House in Holyoke. Interested sponsors should contact Perry at (413) 530-3787. For tickets, visit www.startatsquareone.org.

 

Free Shred Day

Sept. 21: Westfield Bank announced that it will be holding a free document-shredding event at its 26 Arnold St. branch in Westfield on Saturday, Sept. 21 from 9 a.m. to noon. Sponsored by ProShred Security, the event is free and open to the public. There is a limit of five boxes of documents per person.

 

OMG Inc. Open House

Sept. 21: OMG Inc., a leading global manufacturer and supplier of specialty fasteners and products for commercial roofing and residential construction applications, is hosting an open house at its Agawam headquarters, located at 153 Bowles Road, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The free event is open to the public and will include guided riding tours of its manufacturing facility, demonstrations of the company’s innovative products and construction technologies, a job fair with on-the-spot interviews, and a variety of activities for children, including pumpkin decorating, face painting, a bounce house, and a photo booth. Vendors will be onsite offering breakfast and lunch during the event.

 

Cruise for Critters

Sept. 21: The engines are revving for the much-anticipated Cruise for Critters at Westview Farms Creamery. Now in its 12th year, this car show, presented by Al Widlan, owner of Service Connection, is set to once again make a meaningful impact on the lives of pets in need at Second Chance Animal Services. Widlan has championed this event for over a decade, rallying car enthusiasts and compassionate hearts alike to come together for a worthy cause. This year’s Cruise for Critters promises an array of fall-themed activities for attendees of all ages. A vendor fair will offer unique items of all kinds, and the Halloween Barktacular kids’ games will be back, thanks to dedicated Second Chance volunteers. The festivities are set to kick off at 10 a.m. and continue until 3 p.m., featuring food, ice cream, and an assortment of fall attractions that Westview Farms Creamery is known for, from pumpkin picking to navigating through a corn maze. The event will also include live music by the Barberic Band, a raffle, and more. The event is sponsored in part by Ted and Barbara Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools & Spas and by Joe Campisi, a longtime friend of Second Chance. Organizers extend an invitation to local businesses and vendors to support of pets in need. Information on sponsorship opportunities, item donations, and becoming a vendor can be found at secondchanceanimals.org/events/cruise. The event will welcome spectators free of charge. Car enthusiasts are encouraged to take part in the show by contributing a $20 entry fee per vehicle, with every dollar earmarked for the betterment of pets’ lives. A rain date has been set for Saturday, Sept. 28.

 

MCLA Athletics Golf Classic

Sept. 23: The 27th annual MCLA Athletics Golf Classic will be held at Wyndhurst Golf & Club in Lenox. The Golf Classic serves as a major fundraiser for the college’s Athletic Department. Over the years, the Classic has netted $25,000 to $40,000 annually to support MCLA’s student athletes. Each year, MCLA recognizes a deserving individual or business that has impacted MCLA Athletics. This year’s honoree is Jason Dohaney ’04, a financial advisor at MountainOne Investments and chair of the MCLA Foundation. This year’s Golf Classic premier sponsor is MountainOne. The format for the event is an 18-hole scramble tournament. The entry cost includes greens fees, golf-cart rental, course snacks, a post-golf dinner, branded gifts, and more. Registration takes place from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.; the tournament starts at 11 a.m., and the awards dinner follows at 5 p.m. To sign up for or sponsor the event, visit alumni.mcla.edu/pages/golf-classic-information-23.

 

Healthcare Heroes

Oct. 17: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News will celebrate the eight annual Healthcare Heroes starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2024, profiled in this issue and at businesswest.com, includes Dr. Andrew Balder, attending physician, Baystate Mason Square Neighborhood Health Center; Lucinda Canty, associate professor of Nursing and director of the Seedworks Health Equity Program, UMass Amherst; Bernice Drumheller, past president, NAMI Western Massachusetts; Peta-Gaye Johnson, director of Healthcare Workforce Initiatives, MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board; Margaret King, occupational therapist, Baystate Medical Center; Alexa Mignano, director of School-Based Clinical Services, River Valley Counseling Center; Dr. Laki Rousou, chief of Thoracic Surgery, chief of Robotic Surgery, and medical director of the Lung Cancer Screening Program, Mercy Medical Center; and Janet Williams, professor of Biology, Elms College. Tickets cost $95, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com/healthcare-heroes-tickets. Presenting sponsors include Baystate Health/Health New England and Elms College. Partner sponsors include Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center and Holyoke Medical Center.

 

Cancer Connection Harvest Dinner

Oct. 17: Cancer Connection will host its annual Harvest Dinner at Inn on Boltwood in Amherst, featuring a farm-to-table dinner, live jazz, a silent auction. Starting at 6 p.m., this festive evening will bring the community together and raise critical funds to bring Cancer Connection’s support groups, integrative therapies, and educational programs to a larger, more diverse population of cancer patients and their caregivers. Cancer Connection is the only independent cancer support center in the area. Visit www.cancer-connection.org/special-events to purchase tickets. For more information about the event or for sponsorship opportunities, contact Liz Horn at (646) 234-8805 or [email protected].

 

People on the Move

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People on the Move
Debbie Esposito

Debbie Esposito

Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) announced the addition of Debbie Esposito to its team as senior vice president, Business Banking officer. She will be instrumental in driving the bank’s growth and development within the Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden county markets. With more than two decades of experience in the financial industry, Esposito brings a wealth of expertise in business, commercial, and cash-management solutions. Prior to joining GCB, she served as vice president of Cash Management Sales for PeoplesBank and vice president, senior Treasury Management relationship manager for Citizens Bank. In her new role, she will be responsible for promoting financial solutions in partnership with Commercial Lending, Government Banking, and Retail. She will also play a key role in implementing marketing strategies to enhance brand awareness and strengthen the bank’s presence in the community. Esposito holds a bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, and marketing from the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater and a nonprofit certification with a financial focus from the University of St. Thomas in Minnesota. She is committed to community involvement and actively volunteers for various organizations across Western Mass.

•••••

Robert Fraser

Robert Fraser

MountainOne announced that President and CEO Robert Fraser was elected as chair of the Massachusetts Bankers Assoc. (MBA), a one-year post that began on July 1. Fraser explained that key focus areas already in full swing for 2024-25 include creating greater awareness of the role of banks and their positive impact on communities across the Commonwealth and expanding the association’s engagement with the industry’s emerging leaders. “I am honored to have been elected to the position of chair by my peers,” said Fraser, who joined MountainOne in 2007 and has served as its President and CEO since 2014. “I truly enjoy working with our members and with the Mass Bankers professional staff team to achieve the strategic priorities for the association.”

•••••

Country Bank President and CEO Mary McGovern recently announced the promotion of five individuals within the organization: Dale Mazanec, Jason Mourao, Tori Graffam, Crystal Mansfield, and Ashlynn Fratoni. Previously serving as vice president, Mazanec has been promoted to first vice president, Asset Mitigation. With a decade of service at Country Bank and 35 in the financial-services industry, his thoughtful approach and positive attitude make him a leader within the bank, significantly improving its asset-mitigation strategies and operations. Mourao has been appointed assistant vice president of Retail Lending Operations. Since joining Country Bank in 2019, he has excelled in bringing a fresh perspective to the loan operations team. With 10 years of banking experience as an originator, he continues to enhance his skills while pursuing further education at the New England School for Financial Studies through the Massachusetts Bankers Assoc. Graffam has been promoted to assistant vice president, BSA/Fraud. Joining Country Bank in 2020, she has demonstrated exceptional vigilance in safeguarding the bank and its customers. With more than 35 years in banking, she is respected for her deep knowledge and expertise in BSA/AML/OFAC regulations. She is a liaison, ensuring adherence to evolving regulatory requirements to protect the bank and its stakeholders. Mansfield assumes the role of Customer Experience officer. In 23 years at Country Bank, she has excelled across various roles, including sales, customer service, retail management, marketing, and data analytics. Known for her commitment to excellence and customer-centric approach, she ensures that customer voices are heard and valued throughout the bank. Her dedication was recognized with the prestigious 2023 Presidents Platinum Award. Fratoni has been promoted to Lead Audit officer. In her three and a half years as senior auditor, she has consistently leveraged her extensive audit experience to drive process improvements and efficiency gains across the organization, Her leadership in audit operations reinforces Country Bank’s commitment to operational excellence and regulatory compliance.

•••••

John Berryhill

John Berryhill

The Botanic Garden of Smith College recently welcomed John Berryhill as its new director. Berryhill has been serving as interim director since January as part of a career at the botanic garden that began more than 27 years ago. He brings to this role an in-depth understanding of the botanic garden, a steadfast dedication to its mission, and a strong commitment to the partnerships that are at the center of its work. Berryhill has worked in many different roles during his tenure — as a garden steward tending to the outdoor collections, as an arborist caring for the historic arboretum, and most recently as landscape curator managing the outdoor team and launching several conservation initiatives. These projects and priorities have connected Smith students to the work of the botanic garden community at both a regional and national scale. In the summer of 2022, Berryhill earned a master’s degree from Smith, making him the first Smithie to serve as director of the botanic garden. His research focused on the mountain magnolia’s vulnerability to climate change, which led to the development of a conservation collection at Smith College. He has long been a proponent of social and environmental justice being central to the botanic garden’s work. This priority has led to outreach and collaborations with local Indigenous leadership and conservation organizations, which will help shape the future direction of the Botanic Garden of Smith College.

•••••

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, with offices in Springfield and Northampton, was recognized by Best Lawyers as a Best Law Firm in Springfield for 2025. The firm was singled out in the fields of banking and finance law, bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights/insolvency and reorganization law, business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships), corporate law, elder law, trusts and estates, litigation – trusts and estates, and tax law. In addition, eight attorneys at Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin were selected for inclusion in the 2025 edition of the Best Lawyers in America for outstanding contributions to their fields. Attorney Carol Cioe Klyman was included for her expertise the fields of elder law and trusts and estates. Attorney Mark Esposito was selected by his peers in Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America in the fields of commercial litigation and litigation – labor and employment. Attorney Michele Feinstein was selected by her peers as a Lawyer of the Year for trusts and estates in Springfield. She was also chosen for inclusion on the Best Lawyers in America list for her outstanding contributions to the fields of elder law, litigation – trusts and estates, and trusts and estates. Attorney Gary Fentin, one of the firm’s founders, was selected for his work in the fields of banking and financial law and commercial transactions/uniform commercial code (UCC) law. Attorney Timothy Mulhern, managing partner, was included for his work in the fields of corporate law and tax law. Founding attorney Steven Schwartz was selected for his expertise in the fields of business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships), closely held companies, and corporate law. Attorney James Sheils was included for his contributions in the field of commercial transactions/uniform commercial code (UCC) law. Attorney Steven Weiss was selected for inclusion for his work in the fields of bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights/insolvency and reorganization law.

•••••

Bulkley Richardson announced that 13 lawyers from the firm were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in the 2025 edition of The Best Lawyers in America. These lawyers were recognized in 22 unique areas of practice. They include Peter Barry for construction law, education law and healthcare law; Kathleen Bernardo for real-estate law; Michael Burke for medical-malpractice law (defendants) and personal-injury litigation (defendants); Mark Cress for banking and finance law, bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights/insolvency and reorganization law, and corporate law; Francis Dibble Jr. for bet-the-company litigation, commercial litigation, white-collar criminal defense, labor and employment litigation, and securities litigation; Daniel Finnegan for administrative/regulatory law; Scott Foster for business organizations, including LLCs and partnerships; Mary Jo Kennedy for employment law (individuals), employment law (management), and labor and employment litigation; David Parke for corporate law and mergers and acquisitions law; John Pucci for bet-the-company litigation, general-practice criminal defense, and white-collar criminal defense; Jeffrey Roberts for corporate law and trusts and estates; Michael Roundy for commercial litigation; and Ronald Weiss for corporate law, mergers and acquisitions law, and tax law.

•••••

Bacon Wilson, P.C., with offices in Springfield, Northampton, Amherst, and Westfield, announced that seven of its attorneys have been recognized in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers in America, including recognition in the Ones to Watch category. They include Kenneth Albano, business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships); Gina Barry, elder law; Gary Breton, banking and finance law and business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships); Hyman Darling, elder law; Michael Katz, bankruptcy and creditor-debtor rights/insolvency and reorganization law; Tyler Humphrey (Ones to Watch), banking and finance law; and Daniel McKellick (Ones to Watch), real-estate law. Two Bacon Wilson attorneys were named Lawyer of the Year in Springfield for 2025: Breton for business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships), and Darling for elder law.

 

Company Notebook

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Company Notebook

UMass Dining Tops for Eighth Straight Year

AMHERST — UMass Amherst has once again been recognized for its exceptional campus dining experience, earning the coveted top spot on the Princeton Review’s list of Best Campus Food for an unprecedented eighth consecutive year. The achievement underscores UMass Dining’s commitment to culinary excellence, sustainability, and experiential dining that features globally inspired, culturally driven menus. The Princeton Review’s annual rankings are based on surveys of 168,000 students at 390 colleges and universities across the nation. UMass Dining’s consistent top ranking is a testament to its innovative approach to campus dining and commitment to delivering student-focused and locally sourced cuisine at its four dining commons, one large retail food hall, and more than 30 cafés across campus.

 

Excel Dryer Earns SEAL Sustainability Awards

EAST LONGMEADOW — Excel Dryer Inc. recently received Sustainable Product Awards as part of the 2024 SEAL Business Sustainability Awards for its ThinAir Hand Dryer and the D|VERSE Sink System featuring the XLERATORsync Hand Dryer. Both products feature Electrostatic HEPA (eHEPA) Filtration. The SEAL Sustainable Product Award honors innovative and impactful products that are “purpose-built” for a sustainable future. Excel Dryer’s sleek, surface-mounted, ADA-compliant ThinAir Hand Dryer with eHEPA represents a design breakthrough in electric hand-dryer technology. Its ability to conserve space without sacrificing drying time allows users a quick, hygienic, and convenient experience while eliminating paper waste. The D|VERSE Sink System featuring the XLERATORsync Hand Dryer with eHEPA is a collaboration between high-end commercial product designer D|13 Group and Excel Dryer. Integrating the elements of proper hand washing and drying in a cohesive, 30-inch unit, D|VERSE introduces a new level of hygiene, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal to commercial restrooms.

 

bankESB Among Most Charitable Companies

EASTHAMPTON — For the 10th straight year, bankESB has received the 2024 Corporate Citizenship Award from Boston Business Journal, recognizing the bank as one of Massachusetts’ top corporate charitable contributors. The magazine annually publishes this list to showcase companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities. Through its sponsorship and charitable-giving program, the Giving Tree, bankESB and the Easthampton Savings Bank Charitable Foundation support nonprofit organizations and causes throughout Hampden and Hampshire counties. In 2023, the Giving Tree donated nearly $635,000, and over the past decade, it has donated more than $3.6 million. This year, 100 companies qualified for the distinction by reporting at least $100,000 in cash contributions to Massachusetts-based charities last year.

 

MountainOne Named a Top Insurance Employer

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne Insurance Agency Inc. has been recognized as a Top Insurance Employer by Insurance Business America for the fifth time. The company previously earned this title in 2019, 2021, 2022, and 2023. This award is based on several key factors, including MountainOne’s workplace culture, employee benefits, and dedication to overall job satisfaction. It was also recognized for its commitment to fostering career growth and implementing forward-thinking strategies that position the company at the forefront of industry.

Incorporations

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Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

Gary’s Sweeping Service Inc., 47 Russo Circle, Agawam, MA 01001. Gary Megliola, 121 Fairview St., Agawam, MA 01001. Purchase, sale, holding, and management of equipment, goods, chattels, and other personal property.

BELCHERTOWN

Mission Cantina Amherst Inc., 24 Nathaniel Way, Belchertown, MA 01007. Walter Pacheco, same. Restaurant.

CHICOPEE

Pure Cleanse Co., 528 Springfield St., Chicopee, MA 01013. Haylee Wajda, same. General cleaning services.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Meadows Staffing Group Inc., 8 Oxford Lane, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Rachel Retchin, same. Staffing company.

FEEDING HILLS

RA Construction Services Co., 42 Red Fox Dr., Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Andrey Fedotov, same. Home-improvement services.

HOLYOKE

Holyoke Convenience Store Inc., 50 Holyoke St., #B216, Holyoke, MA 01040. Mittalben Patel, same. Convenience store.

INDIAN ORCHARD

New England ATV Fest Inc., Yanitza Roman Vazquez, 1978 Page Blvd., Indian Orchard, MA, 01151. Yanitza Roman Vazquez, same. Community activities for ATV drivers.

LEE

Sage Movement Therapy Corp., 230 East Center St., Lee, MA 01238. Sage Brody, same. Psychotherapeutic use of movement.

MONSON

Monson Community Cupboard Inc., 209 Wales Road, Monson, MA 01057. Kristine Duval,143 Wilbraham Road, Monson, MA 01057. Serves the community of Monson by providing help with, but not limited to, food, hygiene, and clothing necessities.

NORTHAMPTON

Leo’s Home Inc., 112 Main St., Northampton, MA 01060. Brian Megliola, 11 Cronin Hill Road, Hatfield, MA 01038. To provide education and support in pursuit of actualizing the dream of homeownership for all, including marginalized and vulnerable populations.

PITTSFIELD

Community Haul Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Hannah Conley, same. Provides connection of disadvantaged people and families to tangible goods and needs that support a healthy, happy lifestyle in their local communities.

Good Grains Distribution Inc., 228 Partridge Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Michael Trong, same. Delivers bread to retailers.

Mayili Technologies Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Mohandas Shanmugam, same. Software consultation.

Rudewicz and Company Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Peter Rudewicz, same. Musical-instrument restoration and manufacturing, as well as specialty rigging and transportation work for capital equipment.

The Skye High USA Foundation Limited, 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Emily Cann, 34 Oxford Crescent, New Malden, Great Britian. Foundation established to provide support to families during and after the loss of a twin, triplet, or multiples, by providing hospitals with cards and posters and providing families with memory packs.

SPRINGFIELD

7 Arts Latino Foundation Inc., 191 Chestnut St., Suite 3B, Springfield, MA 01103. Jorge Martinez, same. Nonprofit organization established to encourage people to participate in the electoral process, such as voter registration and get-out-the-vote drives.

CTC Atlantic Inc., 399 South Branch Parkway, Springfield, MA 01118. Christopher Collins, same. Property and management consulting.

The Royals Inc., 1551 Allen St., Apt 1, Springfield, MA 01118. Imani Brown Taylor, same. Nonprofit organization providing comprehensive programs and resources that support the development of self-worth, confidence, resilience, and overall empowerment among young women as they transition into adulthood.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

56 Transport Inc., 66 Larchwood St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Zaid Jalil, 122 Garnet St., Springfield, MA 01129. Transportation.

WILBRAHAM

Empire Acquisition Inc., 9 Woodsley Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095. Michael Chechile, same. To import and sell office supplies and conduct any other businesses or activities which may be lawfully conducted by a corporation under the Massachusetts Business Corporation Act.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of August 2024.

BELCHERTOWN

Heirloom Catering
251 Green Ave.
Brandi Parker

Johnny’s Worx
6 River St.
Johnathan Oey

PW Home Improvements
45 Jabish St.
Pierre Willems

Sanderson Snap One Shoot Studios
272 Aldrich St.
John Gelinas, Austin Endelos

Snow Fall Studios
251 Green Ave.
Yachaleef Rivera

Torna and Associates LLC
30 Plaza Ave.
Erik Torna

Transform Your Lifetime
251 Green Ave.
Brandi Parker

GREAT BARRINGTON

After Hours
8 Meadow Lane
Kevin Kelly

Alvastra Building
24 Silver St., Apt. 1A
Tobias DeRis

Ayuda Wellness
287 Main St.
Christina deRis

Berkshire Bodywork
33 Rossetter St.
Cory Schifano

Café Holli
200 Main St.
Holli Stanton

Edward Bevan, PsyD
321 Main St., Suite 201
Edward Bevan

Farnsworth
126 Main St.
Alexander Farnsworth

Jose’s Mini Latino Market LLC
175 Main St.
Jose Gonzalez

Nina Pick LLC
434B Stockbridge Road
Nina Pick

Spotlight Cup and Cone
109 Stockbridge Road
Robin Morrison

Tractor Supply Co.
356 Stockbridge Road
Tractor Supply

HOLYOKE

Borochin Quality Audit
36 Farnum Dr.
Leonard Borochin

K. Cavagnac Painting
56 George St.
Kevin Cavagnac

Keycap IT Solutions
38 King St.
Christopher Saunders

SOUTH HADLEY

Creative Crafts & Calligraphy by Nancy
4 Wellesley Circle
Nancy Holden

Diamond Automotive
180 Willimansett St.
Diamond Tools & Equipment Inc.

Three Anvil Forge
435 Granby Road
Michael Izatt

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

19 Suffolk Street Chelsea, LLC
183 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 11
Date: 08/08/2024

Adams, Charles
5 Morin Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/07/2024

Alatea, Ali Y.
a/k/a Atea, Ali
106 Medford St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/02/2024

Alfano, Daniel C.
85 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057-9786
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/07/2024

Alicea, Nelson
332 Grove St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2024

Asher, Jeffrey
48 Taylor St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/06/2024

Berube, Daniel P.
Berube, Candice T.
58 Woodcliff Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2024

Currier, Peggy F.
64B Stafford Road
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2024

Darragh, Lisa L.
1167 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2024

Deerfield Car and Shuttle
Traina, Vincent P.
78 Hillside Road
South Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/09/2024

Espada, Jose R.
Epada, Emily
80 Clarendon Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/09/2024

Faucher, Jamie R.
298 Oakham Road
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/02/2024

Gougeon, David
10 Lewandowski Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/14/2024

Granny’s Place
Seldomridge, Jody L.
Seldomridge, Ricky R.
844 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/07/2024

Gulland, Janice L.
8 Stockwell Road, Apt. 2
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/12/2024

Haselkorn, Scott
Haselkorn, Megan
60 Emerson Way
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/13/2024

Himmelman, Julia Moore
26A East St.
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/12/2024

Howard, Michael
Howard, Sophia
57 Allen Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/31/2024

MacDonald, William J.
19 Griswoldville St.
Colrain, MA 01340
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/31/2024

MacNeil, Stephen M.
119 Industrial Dr., No. 161
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2024

Martin, Denise
36 Taber St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/06/2024

Mobley, Kevin R.
15 Hawley Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/01/2024

Moriarty, Marshall Theodore
c/o Moriarty Law Firm, Inc.
21 Mountainbrook Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/15/2024

O’Brien, Noah
26 Eddy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/14/2024

Owusu-Mensah, Emmanuel
58 Savoy Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/07/2024

Page, Anita Marie
340 Dale St., Unit B
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/01/2024

Rijo, Raquel
47 Dorset St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/14/2024

TCI Holdings, LLC
64 Bartlett Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 11
Date: 08/14/2024

White, Cristy Lee
23 Gay St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/13/2024

Zak, Sara M.
1 Leclair Ter., 1st Fl.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/03/2024

Real Estate Transactions

By
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

230 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Daniel W. Finn
Seller: Jessica Shepley
Date: 08/15/24

BUCKLAND

89 State St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $604,000
Buyer: Keth A. Pelletier
Seller: DC Cote Properties LLC
Date: 08/16/24

CHARLEMONT

120 Hawk Hill Road
Charlemont, MA 01370
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: James M. Kemp
Seller: Michael J. Taylor
Date: 08/07/24

104 Main St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Sarah L. Grinnell
Seller: Doray Int.
Date: 08/06/24

COLRAIN

55 Heath Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Keith Mezzanotti
Seller: Kevin L. Scala
Date: 08/07/24

CONWAY

820 East Guinea Road
Conway, MA 01096
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Barose Projects LLC
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 08/13/24

133 Sabans Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Richard Green
Seller: Katheryn L. Wilkes
Date: 08/05/24

DEERFIELD

4 Industrial Dr.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $1,700,000
Buyer: Industrial Dr. East LLC
Seller: Pro Pel East LLC
Date: 08/14/24

200 Lower Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $752,000
Buyer: Christian B. Sikora
Seller: J. R. Detweiler
Date: 08/13/24

106 North Main St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Michael E. Ramon
Seller: Douglas S. Hammond
Date: 08/15/24

51 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $635,000
Buyer: Brian Scully
Seller: Corrine Sysun
Date: 08/05/24

36 Thayer St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $427,500
Buyer: Samuel J. Ovitt
Seller: Anujkumar Dhamija
Date: 08/15/24

GREENFIELD

237 Conway St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Phillip N. Bascom
Seller: Art Deviation LLC
Date: 08/15/24

348 Federal St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Kongkea Sereyvith LLC
Seller: 346-348 Federal St. RT
Date: 08/05/24

36 James St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $367,429
Buyer: Sidney J. Palmer
Seller: A. P. Shallers
Date: 08/14/24

672 Lampblack Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Jessica Duplin
Date: 08/16/24

96 Maple St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $341,000
Buyer: Michael Lovett
Seller: Deborah J. Drew
Date: 08/07/24

716 Mohawk Trail
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $886,500
Buyer: Adrienne T. Kimball RET
Seller: Arthur W. Dahowski
Date: 08/15/24

18 Newell Pond Place
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $590,000
Buyer: Pamela L. Grey
Seller: Bednarski, John F., (Estate)
Date: 08/09/24

20 Orchard St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Lyndi J. Antic
Seller: Edward F. Berlin
Date: 08/16/24

60 Overland Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Amanda L. Anderson
Seller: Sjl Nt
Date: 08/14/24

HAWLEY

7 Grout Road
Hawley, MA 01339
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Alyssa J. Tanner
Seller: Nelson R. Oliveira
Date: 08/15/24

HEATH

223 Number 9 Road
Heath, MA 01367
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Christina Diaz
Seller: Gougeon, Jack A., (Estate)
Date: 08/08/24

141 Sumner Stetson Road
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Son Treme
Seller: Charles R. Ryan
Date: 08/08/24

LEYDEN

5 Stephen Lane
Leyden, MA 01301
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Margaret A. Arroyo
Seller: Loven, Cherles A., (Estate)
Date: 08/06/24

MONROE

125 River Road
Monroe, MA 01350
Amount: $266,900
Buyer: Richard Fries
Seller: 38 Margierite St. NT
Date: 08/16/24

MONTAGUE

5 Crocker Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $430,320
Buyer: Douglas A. Shuga
Seller: Anne E. H. Stuart RET
Date: 08/13/24

12 Federal St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Ina Pouliot
Seller: Christal L. Cutler
Date: 08/07/24

443 Turners Falls Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Meredith S. Savage
Seller: Pasha Realty LLC
Date: 08/16/24

ORANGE

39 Eagleville Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $346,000
Buyer: Pattyann Spanner
Seller: Daniel S. Jeffrey
Date: 08/16/24

25 Marjorie St.
Orange, MA 01331
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Lucas Upham
Seller: Zackary P. Adams
Date: 08/08/24

9 Rogers Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Ayla C. Sabacinski
Seller: David C. Simpson
Date: 08/15/24

185 Royalston Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $660,000
Buyer: John M. Grigas
Seller: Emma Ellsworth
Date: 08/05/24

330 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $318,000
Buyer: Donald F. Hurld
Seller: Robert A. Woodard
Date: 08/08/24

ROWE

228 Zoar Road
Rowe, MA 01367
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Teresa Aguinaldo
Seller: Simon J. Zelazo
Date: 08/14/24

SUNDERLAND

170 Old Amherst Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Jamroth LLC
Seller: Sunderland Rentals LLC
Date: 08/07/24

67 South Silver Lane
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $412,000
Buyer: Hongyan Wu
Seller: Christian D. Houlden
Date: 08/07/24

WARWICK

686 Old Winchester Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Donald Kitzmiller
Seller: Anne B. Kitzmiller
Date: 08/09/24

WHATELY

161 Christian Lane
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $895,000
Buyer: Neal Sadler
Seller: Troy T. Martin
Date: 08/06/24

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

30 Bradford Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Joseph Kratochvil
Seller: Rachel M. Seddon
Date: 08/14/24

18 Candlewood Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Thomas Batchelor
Seller: Kristi B. Rosati
Date: 08/15/24

406 Cooper St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Lisa M. Cernak
Seller: Mary A. Marzano
Date: 08/15/24

148 Liberty St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Plaza LLC
Seller: Beaver Real Estate LLC
Date: 08/08/24

1810 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Axel TR
Seller: Sheryl D. Nutbrown
Date: 08/08/24

4 Maple St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Nyasia A. Colby
Seller: Teresa M. Klein
Date: 08/06/24

912 North St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Marie T. Schlichting
Date: 08/06/24

Poplar St., Lot 3
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Vladimir P. Kozlov
Seller: Andrey Nemchinsky
Date: 08/09/24

85 Red Fox Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Michael D. Johansen
Seller: Lowell P. McLane
Date: 08/05/24

47 Rosie Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Jan Misiak
Seller: John V. Ivanov
Date: 08/15/24

156 School St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $152,950
Buyer: William B. Gabel
Seller: Gabel FT
Date: 08/09/24

310-314 Springfield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Hima LLC
Seller: Cjn LLC
Date: 08/09/24

72 Thalia Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Igor Divizinschi
Seller: Joseph M. Kratochvil
Date: 08/14/24

134 Wagon Wheel Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Kele
Seller: Matthew J. Kele
Date: 08/14/24

CHESTER

85 Lyman Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Alain Corriveau
Seller: John M. Vanheynigen
Date: 08/08/24

78 Lyon Hill Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Kimberly Edwards
Seller: Thomas W. Balukonis
Date: 08/16/24

CHICOPEE

226 Asselin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Wicked Deals LLC
Seller: William R. Mahoney
Date: 08/14/24

51 Beaumont Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Jtt Realty LLC
Seller: Geraldine P. Stone
Date: 08/15/24

444 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Shawn M. Gagnon
Seller: Rossana Sandoval
Date: 08/07/24

12 Cadieux Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Frederick R. Devault
Seller: Amber L. Mastej
Date: 08/16/24

11 Calvin St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: John C. Pagan-Arroyo
Seller: Elizabeth A. Sawyer
Date: 08/16/24

125 Chateaugay St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Badria A. Hanna
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 08/16/24

200 Exchange St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Manish J. Patel
Seller: R. L. New Life LLC
Date: 08/12/24

43 Falmouth Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Castle Bay Holdings LLC
Seller: Hpp Property LLC
Date: 08/08/24

52 Gardner Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Joseph Manolakis
Seller: Robert A. Socha
Date: 08/09/24

308 Hampden St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Zachary Singleton-Havner
Seller: John C. Pagan Arroyo
Date: 08/16/24

169 Montgomery St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $153,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: Sandra Corbeille
Date: 08/05/24

98 Narragansett Blvd.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $268,000
Buyer: Elving Rosado
Seller: Erin L. Brault
Date: 08/13/24

39-47 Perkins St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Manish J. Patel
Seller: R. L. New Life LLC
Date: 08/12/24

167 Rolf Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Rafea Jabbar
Seller: Hannah Melendez
Date: 08/07/24

94 Shepherd St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Teresa L. Peterson
Seller: Romanski, Deborah A., (Estate)
Date: 08/16/24

944 Sheridan St.
Chicopee, MA 01022
Amount: $940,000
Buyer: Wreckers LLC
Seller: Tgtbt 2 LLC
Date: 08/16/24

60 Walnut St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Phantom Holdings LLC
Seller: Donald A. Giguere
Date: 08/08/24

95 Warregan St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Ibwe
Seller: Clifford A. Madru
Date: 08/15/24

15 Western Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $186,000
Buyer: Stephanie J. Covill
Seller: Covill, Louis B., (Estate)
Date: 08/09/24

50 Wheatland Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Manuela Olivares
Seller: Jjj17 LLC
Date: 08/14/24

EAST LONGMEADOW

47 Autumn Ridge
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Ilana Kasal
Seller: Michelle A. Solomon
Date: 08/15/24

9 Crescent Hill
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Swacey A. Tucker
Seller: Equity Trust Co.
Date: 08/13/24

48 Deerfoot Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: John W. Winslow
Seller: Angela C. Bourget
Date: 08/16/24

Happy Acres Lane, Lot 7
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Kyle Quinn
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 08/05/24

1 Jeffrey Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01095
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Best Home Builders LLC
Seller: Southern NE Real Estate Development Inc.
Date: 08/12/24

27 Lee St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $457,000
Buyer: James Deschenes
Seller: Cynthia L. Sugrue
Date: 08/09/24

89 Nottingham Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Wei N. Ni
Seller: Pryor FT
Date: 08/15/24

14 Princeton St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Jamie Devine
Seller: Galina Burova
Date: 08/08/24

8 Savoy Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Samantha E. Kastrati
Seller: Kevin D. Matheny
Date: 08/15/24

33 Somers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $401,500
Buyer: David W. Pekarski
Seller: Arthur P. Loughman-Bull
Date: 08/12/24

271 Somers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Brian Buckley
Seller: Robert I. Safford
Date: 08/06/24

177 Vineland Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Michael Carabetta
Seller: Patricia Aleks
Date: 08/16/24

69 Westernview Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Theodore Kirby
Seller: Nancy J. Heath 2022 RET
Date: 08/06/24

78 Wood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Montesino Property Mgmt. RT
Seller: Bennett RET
Date: 08/09/24

GRANVILLE

38 Sodom St.
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Gary A. Prentice
Seller: Lori Conley
Date: 08/16/24

HAMPDEN

4 Colony Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Christopher D. Draper
Seller: Gina Dunn
Date: 08/16/24

16 Oak Knoll Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $216,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: Satienpoch, Mary A., (Estate)
Date: 08/07/24

HOLLAND

24 Lakeshore Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: David Lecours
Seller: Bryan P. Ward
Date: 08/08/24

241 Mashapaug Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Paul J. Tortolani
Seller: 241 Mashapaug Road RT
Date: 08/08/24

36 Stony Hill Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $449,000
Buyer: David Bourbeau
Seller: Say Family LLC
Date: 08/09/24

HOLYOKE

72 Elmore St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Daniel P. Boyle
Seller: Robert J. Dempsey
Date: 08/09/24

138 Michigan Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jennifer M. Martinez
Seller: Summer R. Turner
Date: 08/15/24

59 Pine St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Ghaife Mohamed
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 08/09/24

66 Pine St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Luis Rosado
Seller: Efrain Torres
Date: 08/12/24

521 Pleasant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Marie Y. Pierre
Seller: Germania N. Gonzalez
Date: 08/16/24

88-90 Saint James Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Alvaro Ortiz
Seller: Walfrido Marquez
Date: 08/15/24

LONGMEADOW

233 Ardsley Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $728,000
Buyer: Eric Samuels
Seller: Demirjian FT
Date: 08/09/24

87 Cobblestone Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $478,000
Buyer: Ping Jian
Seller: Micki J. Choi
Date: 08/09/24

32 Lincoln Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Alison K. Anderson
Seller: William C. Loiselle
Date: 08/13/24

110 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Gregory M. Gould
Seller: Nathaniel Hammond
Date: 08/09/24

690 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,135,000
Buyer: Sheri R. Gray
Seller: Ryan N. Shanks
Date: 08/13/24

21 Massachusetts Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $366,000
Buyer: Thuy T. Vu
Seller: Steven S. Christenson
Date: 08/14/24

100 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Michael Wood
Seller: Laura H. Jenkins
Date: 08/16/24

90 Shaker Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $462,500
Buyer: Daniel Stapleton
Seller: Donna L. Dyer
Date: 08/16/24

130 Woodside Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Rachel J. Berezin
Seller: Mark A. Jackowitz
Date: 08/06/24

17 Yarmouth St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Cltj Realty LLC
Seller: Michael A. Wysocki
Date: 08/15/24

29 York Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $975,000
Buyer: David Wartman
Seller: Jaimee A. Zick
Date: 08/15/24

LUDLOW

Balsam Hill Road, Lot 65
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,900
Buyer: Binaya Basnet
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 08/09/24

608 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $435,900
Buyer: Center For Human Development Inc.
Seller: P. & E. Properties Inc.
Date: 08/14/24

789 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $332,500
Buyer: Shannon Curto-Grimm
Seller: Eric Wegiel
Date: 08/06/24

982 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Donald E. Moran
Seller: Gregory G. Demone
Date: 08/13/24

9 Elaine Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Paul Jandrow
Seller: Cory J. Mills-Dick
Date: 08/05/24

25 McDonald Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $502,500
Buyer: David Goncalves
Seller: Rosa Cordiano
Date: 08/15/24

15 Nash Hill Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Martins, Jacqueline P., (Estate)
Date: 08/07/24

Sawmill Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Donald E. Moran
Seller: Gregory G. Demone
Date: 08/13/24

695 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $433,000
Buyer: Mary T. Tzambazakis
Seller: Michael A. Morais
Date: 08/15/24

695 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Michael A. Morais
Seller: William L. Laughlin
Date: 08/14/24

27 Wilno Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $329,999
Buyer: Todd A. Frederick
Seller: Jamie Devine
Date: 08/08/24

MONSON

77 Carpenter Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $476,249
Buyer: Paul McDermott
Seller: Donald Henderson
Date: 08/09/24

3 Heritage Lane
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Liam Ferguson
Seller: Brent Ketner
Date: 08/15/24

170 Hovey Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $755,000
Buyer: Christopher D. DeSantis
Seller: Barbara Clay
Date: 08/09/24

380 Lower Hampden Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Christopher E. Skutnik
Seller: Stone, Suzanne L., (Estate)
Date: 08/16/24

10 Zuell Hill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Isaac Gomez
Seller: Peter M. Barnett
Date: 08/16/24

PALMER

331 Burlingame Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Charlene Ocampo
Seller: Eric Kerr
Date: 08/08/24

5-7 Crest St.
Palmer, MA 01056
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Adam L. Bressette
Seller: Tassinari Construction Inc.
Date: 08/06/24

2010 High St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Erica Veary
Seller: Daniel Delisle
Date: 08/13/24

4042-4044 Pine St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Eric Riesmeyer
Seller: Avyanna Cruz
Date: 08/16/24

3038 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: David Reddy
Seller: Donald R. Wood
Date: 08/09/24

12 Riverview Pkwy.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Nolan Spiers
Seller: Donald Hall
Date: 08/14/24

RUSSELL

54 Fairview Ave.
Russell, MA 01085
Amount: $387,000
Buyer: Jack-Thomas Hovey
Seller: Valentin Salagornik
Date: 08/07/24

1190 Huntington Road
Russell, MA 01050
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Crescent Mills LLC
Seller: Westfield River Assocs. LLC
Date: 08/09/24

SPRINGFIELD

58-60 Albemarle St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Margarita Rodriguez
Seller: Lilian Miller RET
Date: 08/09/24

168 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

3-5 Angelo St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $372,000
Buyer: Donnalee Reid
Seller: Edwin Alvarado
Date: 08/12/24

36 Arvilla St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $263,000
Buyer: Gregory C. Fitzpatrick
Seller: Paul A. Maguire
Date: 08/14/24

187 Ashland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: Kayleen Whitaker
Seller: George Doty
Date: 08/13/24

56 Audley Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: David K. Kang
Seller: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Date: 08/09/24

18 Bamforth Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Rossana Chum
Seller: Meka Projects LLC
Date: 08/15/24

65 Bartels St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Jillian L. Bowyer
Seller: Matthew P. Dibiaso
Date: 08/16/24

476 Berkshire Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Ana D. Irizarry
Seller: Unlimited Property Services LLC
Date: 08/16/24

123 Bowles St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Roger D. Gore
Date: 08/12/24

6 Capitol Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Kianna M. Rodriguez
Seller: Emily A. Boucher
Date: 08/12/24

74 Cherry St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

22-24 Chester St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

43-45 Claremont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Joseline E. Mercedes
Seller: Giselle M. Ojeda
Date: 08/14/24

106-108 Clifton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $319,900
Buyer: Ginette Fanfan
Seller: Springfield Ventures RT
Date: 08/16/24

14-16 Cloverdale St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Muayyad Realty LLC
Seller: 14-16 Cloverdale Street TR
Date: 08/14/24

56 Colonial Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Numeric Capital Investors LLC
Seller: Scudder Bay Capital LLC
Date: 08/12/24

363 Cooley St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Duy K. Do
Seller: Adams, Joseph Edmund, (Estate)
Date: 08/05/24

23 Corona St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Nres LLC
Seller: Little Eagle LLC
Date: 08/14/24

30 Corona St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Salomon A. Mateo
Seller: Kyle A. Watt
Date: 08/13/24

36-38 Dearborn St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Roger D. Gore
Date: 08/12/24

1361-1363 Dwight St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

105 East Alvord St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Paulette Luma
Seller: Real Estate Investments Northeast LLC
Date: 08/09/24

125 East Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Mark Tomas
Seller: Denise M. Ford RET
Date: 08/12/24

23 East Hooker St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

293 Eastern Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

6 Ellendale Circle
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Isabel Santiago
Seller: Kenneth S. Ross
Date: 08/16/24

235 Emerson St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Justin Drengberg
Seller: Christina M. Stelzer
Date: 08/13/24

38 Fallston St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Michael Tanski
Seller: Cynthia A. Seamans
Date: 08/06/24

31 Fieldston St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $224,000
Buyer: Shelton J. Brown
Seller: Randall R. Jarry
Date: 08/16/24

153 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Eleanor Andrews
Seller: Nicholas Malafronte
Date: 08/07/24

202 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Clara Coly
Seller: Visionary Homes LLC
Date: 08/08/24

452 Franklin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

72 Gail St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Shahkar M. Fatemi
Seller: Sandra J. Grenier
Date: 08/07/24

105 Geneva St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $270,100
Buyer: Marisa A. Figueroa
Seller: Scott R. Hastings
Date: 08/14/24

162 Gilbert Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $414,900
Buyer: Kevin R. Echavarria
Seller: Viktor Savonin
Date: 08/12/24

92 Girard Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $187,680
Buyer: 127 Marion Street RT
Seller: Donald Beckett
Date: 08/09/24

25 Gladstone St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $255,491
Buyer: 25 Gladstone St. IRT
Seller: Christian S. Rodriguez
Date: 08/05/24

3-5 Glendell Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

18 Goodwin St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jose M. Gonzalez
Seller: Avery Webber
Date: 08/16/24

21-23 Governor St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Roxanna Contreras
Seller: Kelnate Realty LLC
Date: 08/16/24

47-49 Governor St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Roger D. Gore
Date: 08/12/24

45 Greenleaf St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Emmanuel S. Owusu
Seller: Linda L. Richardson
Date: 08/07/24

250 Gresham St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Post Investments LLC
Seller: Wilson, Venice Daphnie, (Estate)
Date: 08/07/24

35-37 Hall St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

132 Hamburg St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Julio R. Ortiz
Seller: Amaurys Amadis
Date: 08/16/24

93 Hancock St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

30 Hawthorne St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

20 Hebron St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

15-17 Huntington St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Cesar G. Ogando
Seller: Tascon Homes LLC
Date: 08/08/24

30 Irvington St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $403,000
Buyer: Tristan H. Cohen
Seller: Marcello Deiulis
Date: 08/15/24

28 Johnson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

119 Kane St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Kathleen E. Saunders
Seller: Aida M. De La Cruz
Date: 08/16/24

32 Kent Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $169,369
Buyer: Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Seller: Rennard R. Johnson
Date: 08/16/24

206 King St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $1,190,909
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: A2zlh Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

84-86 Lebanon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $292,500
Buyer: Sabine T. Fleury-Germain
Seller: Hourglass Property Solutions LLC
Date: 08/06/24

37-39 Los Angeles St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Laing Services LLC
Seller: Eugene D. Smith
Date: 08/08/24

39-41 Lyndale St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Lillian Colman
Seller: Waiwai RT
Date: 08/05/24

28 Marengo Park
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Abram Kirby
Seller: Luis M. Rosado
Date: 08/06/24

127 Marion St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $187,680
Buyer: 127 Marion Street RT
Seller: Donald Beckett
Date: 08/09/24

87 Mayfield St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $302,000
Buyer: Bernader Abel
Seller: Yinet S. Rodriguez
Date: 08/09/24

9 Meadowbrook Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Sherwood T. Vaillancourt
Seller: Charlene Ocampo
Date: 08/08/24

289 Mill St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Aleksandr Chuduk
Seller: Ricardo Miranda
Date: 08/16/24

291 Mill St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Aleksandr Chuduk
Seller: Ricardo Miranda
Date: 08/16/24

71 Morningside Park
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $343,000
Buyer: Edgar Fisher
Seller: Katherine Wong
Date: 08/06/24

48 Morris St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $305,900
Buyer: Richard M. Johnson
Seller: Luis A. Rosa-Martinez
Date: 08/14/24

74-76 Noel St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Renald Saintil
Seller: Paula N. Arestedes
Date: 08/09/24

97 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

107 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,084,091
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Springfield Portfolio Holding LLC
Date: 08/05/24

1909 Page Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $118,000
Buyer: Sergey Privedenyuk
Seller: Negron Jr., William R., (Estate)
Date: 08/08/24

1599 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $389,900
Buyer: B. B Cassin
Seller: Coalie RT
Date: 08/16/24

1882 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Dany Nguyen
Seller: Peter J. Mancuso
Date: 08/16/24

366 Peekskill Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Ismael L. Garcia
Seller: Jean Achatz
Date: 08/05/24

109 Pineywoods Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $542,000
Buyer: Matthew Certain
Seller: Todd M. Lemieux
Date: 08/15/24

524-526 Plainfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Brandon Lopez
Seller: Emily M. Lamica
Date: 08/16/24

16 Rogers Ave.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Flores
Seller: Maria Castro
Date: 08/16/24

139 Prouty St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Jennifer R. Mei
Seller: Karen E. Illingsworth
Date: 08/07/24

30 Sachem St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Saint M. A. Boui
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 08/16/24

117 Saint James Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Julitza Rivera
Seller: Marion B. Rogers
Date: 08/07/24

205 Saint James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Adister Pineda
Seller: Larkin, Andrew B., (Estate)
Date: 08/09/24

18 Shirley Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Kevor S. Hunter
Seller: Glenda L. Delgado
Date: 08/08/24

14 Springfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Matheus E. Ramos
Seller: Mark Hebert
Date: 08/12/24

142-144 Suffolk St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Chelsea Wilson
Seller: Malia Homebuyers LLC
Date: 08/15/24

24 Terrence St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Esther Onwukwe
Seller: Jose Rivera-Portillo
Date: 08/16/24

118 Tyler St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: M. A. Santaliz-Aguilar
Seller: In The Moment Investing LLC
Date: 08/14/24

162-164 Walnut St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Emily Real
Seller: Aura M. Recinos
Date: 08/08/24

287 Walnut St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Marolis A. Cruz
Seller: Dorothea E. Mozell
Date: 08/16/24

16 Weymouth St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Nicholas M. Abraham
Seller: Megan Schwartz
Date: 08/16/24

37 Wilber St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: Loiselle, Katherine H., (Estate)
Date: 08/07/24

1271 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Brvs LLC
Date: 08/09/24

SOUTHWICK

717 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Alberto Morales
Seller: Joanne Cagliostro
Date: 08/09/24

13 Concord Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Diana Huynh
Seller: Nicholas Sonsini
Date: 08/16/24

82 North Lake Ave.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $385,500
Buyer: Mahmoud Jnaed
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 08/13/24

11 Southwick Hill
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $427,000
Buyer: Casey Savino
Seller: Kyle P. Kelleher
Date: 08/07/24

64 Tannery Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: S. A. Mastroianni FT
Seller: James P. Lombella
Date: 08/09/24

WALES

4 Lake Shore Dr.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: George R. Lebeau
Seller: Richard J. Kszaszcz
Date: 08/16/24

61 Main St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $241,500
Buyer: Deena Alvarez
Seller: Karen A. Crowley-Keen
Date: 08/15/24

224 Stafford Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Toni Dailey
Seller: Michael E. Milanese
Date: 08/09/24

WEST SPRINGFIELD

21 Baldwin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $2,150,000
Buyer: 21 Baldwin Street LLC
Seller: Shreeji Properties LLC
Date: 08/09/24

15 East School St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Genesis M. Arzon
Seller: Blackrock SH Group LLC
Date: 08/15/24

695 Elm St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Nilson A. De Sa
Seller: Oza, Shruti B., (Estate)
Date: 08/15/24

215 Hillcrest Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $340,900
Buyer: Anderlee Y. Lopez-Briceno
Seller: Michael J. Whalen
Date: 08/09/24

279 Morton St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $438,000
Buyer: Yaritza Gonzalez
Seller: Campagnari Construction LLC
Date: 08/16/24

94 Poplar Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Brendan Daley
Seller: Catherine A. Hill
Date: 08/13/24

251 River St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $217,500
Buyer: Altostratus LLC
Seller: Revampit Holdings LLC
Date: 08/08/24

WESTFIELD

18 Belleview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: David M. Helems
Seller: Ryan M. Chenevert
Date: 08/05/24

64 Colony Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Ryan M. Chenevert
Seller: Matthew Marshall
Date: 08/05/24

168 Prospect St., Ext.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $352,000
Buyer: Cassandra Rose
Seller: Gail Foley
Date: 08/15/24

182-R Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Paul Curro
Seller: Gonzales, Eleanor M., (Estate)
Date: 08/09/24

288 Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Reed, Therese F., (Estate)
Date: 08/09/24

39 Rachael Ter.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $704,999
Buyer: Douglas Tilden
Seller: Vinodkumar Patel
Date: 08/12/24

37 Shepard St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Aaron Baillargeon
Seller: Kathleen A. Daly
Date: 08/13/24

27 Summit Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Timothy R. Taylor
Seller: Brooke Miller
Date: 08/13/24

27 Sunbriar Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Survivors T. Under Machint
Seller: Janette J. Kosior
Date: 08/12/24

12 West School St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Thomas P. Pepek
Seller: Svitlana Fedotov
Date: 08/15/24

109 Westwood Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Alan Gregg
Seller: Priscilla L. Chapman
Date: 08/09/24

18 Whispering Wind Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $765,000
Buyer: Younes Farouk
Seller: Corey E. Clemente
Date: 08/05/24

WILBRAHAM

21 Delmor Ave.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Adam Lopez
Seller: Donna P. Bartlett
Date: 08/14/24

3 Hilltop Park
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $1,700,000
Buyer: Ngozi E. Bolin
Seller: Robert A. Bonsall
Date: 08/07/24

743 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Molly M. Ronan
Seller: Gerald Small
Date: 08/16/24

243 Manchonis Road, Ext.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Betty J. Bustamante
Seller: Judy Bergdoll
Date: 08/15/24

505 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $374,900
Buyer: Positive Spin Real Estate Investments Inc.
Seller: Samantha D. Burns
Date: 08/14/24

8 Primrose Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Christopher Pittsinger
Seller: Fusco Jr., Neal G., (Estate)
Date: 08/12/24

22 Victoria Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Anthony Bourget
Seller: Stewart L. Bromberg
Date: 08/16/24

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

272 Amity St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $875,000
Buyer: Sara K. Towsley
Seller: Debra U. Gold
Date: 08/09/24

15 Carriage Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $478,000
Buyer: Tatsuki Motoyoshi
Seller: Marc Houlihan
Date: 08/08/24

55 Cherry Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $726,000
Buyer: Margaret L. Devecchi
Seller: Jody J. Goodell
Date: 08/05/24

Cold Hill Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $179,900
Buyer: Tomasz Sroka
Seller: Stephen R. Katigbak
Date: 08/16/24

158 Flat Hills Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $741,000
Buyer: Joanna F. Morse
Seller: Kristina Stinson
Date: 08/12/24

22 Indian Pipe Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $950,000
Buyer: Karen B. Porter
Seller: Michael W. McClurg
Date: 08/09/24

1611 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $960,000
Buyer: John & Deborah May FT
Seller: David R. Buchanan RET
Date: 08/12/24

51 Tanglewood Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $975,000
Buyer: John Kneeland
Seller: Yuh-Fang Hsiao
Date: 08/07/24

BELCHERTOWN

252 Amherst Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: QS Lending Two TR
Seller: Hallys Homes LLC
Date: 08/14/24

18 Chartier Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Trevor Tattersall
Seller: James R. Rattell
Date: 08/05/24

91 Clark St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Matthew C. Hulett
Seller: Dennis H. Connor
Date: 08/09/24

11 Sherwood Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Laurie L. Mills
Seller: R. A. Zuiema-Bloomfield
Date: 08/09/24

605 Warren Wright Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: James E. Powers
Seller: Vincent P. Hohreiter
Date: 08/13/24

CHESTERFIELD

9 North Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jesse Lapinski
Seller: First Congregational Church of Chesterfield
Date: 08/09/24

74 Willicutt Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $193,088
Buyer: Ellsworth S. Matthias
Seller: Loren B. Sterman
Date: 08/06/24

EASTHAMPTON

1 Ashley Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $680,000
Buyer: Brooke F. Gerlach
Seller: Stephen J. Jadczak
Date: 08/06/24

23 Carillon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Brian C. Kelly
Seller: Sealander, Bruce G., (Estate)
Date: 08/12/24

45 Clapp St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Gertrude Kaiser
Seller: Tryggvi S. Jonsson
Date: 08/05/24

6 Crescent St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $590,000
Buyer: Ryan D. Cox
Seller: Brian P. Heroux
Date: 08/12/24

24-30 Grant St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $670,500
Buyer: 24-30 Grant LLC
Seller: Ltl LLC
Date: 08/06/24

25 Lovefield St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Markowski
Seller: Regan Bishop
Date: 08/06/24

GRANBY

14 Cedar Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: John P. Sacco
Seller: Douglas M. Frechette
Date: 08/15/24

435 East State St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Jason Delano
Seller: Hill, Stanley W., (Estate)
Date: 08/16/24

111 Munsing Ridge
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $645,000
Buyer: Alison G. Fenton
Seller: Roger L. Cohen
Date: 08/09/24

51-53 New Ludlow Road
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $820,000
Buyer: Vbc Rentals LLC
Seller: Jamroth LLC
Date: 08/08/24

33 Pleasant St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catherine Nally
Seller: James D. Damours
Date: 08/05/24

34 South St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $962,500
Buyer: Elias D. Os
Seller: Eleanor J. Sexton
Date: 08/14/24

HADLEY

75 Lawrence Plain Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Tuckman LLC
Seller: Carl E. Johnson
Date: 08/07/24

North Branch Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Eleanor J. Sexton
Seller: Dennis F. Pipczynski
Date: 08/15/24

HATFIELD

17 Chestnut St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Jolynn E. Wells
Seller: Elizabeth Lafond
Date: 08/08/24

31 Depot Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $368,516
Buyer: Megliola Realty LLC
Seller: Adam J. Cialek
Date: 08/16/24

15 Gore Ave.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Arthur F. Rubeck
Seller: Joyce Arel
Date: 08/14/24

129 Prospect St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Bridget C. Bishop
Seller: Avet RT
Date: 08/06/24

NORTHAMPTON

581 Burts Pit Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $780,000
Buyer: Jesse R. Eisenberg
Seller: Margaret A. Arroyo
Date: 08/06/24

32 Clark Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Jared Starr
Seller: John H. Steidler
Date: 08/07/24

20 Cloverdale St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $632,000
Buyer: Keeney Wells FT
Seller: Griffin Reardon FT
Date: 08/13/24

28 Columbus Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,075,000
Buyer: Christine Doktor
Seller: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Date: 08/16/24

30 Drewsen Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Carlos Oliva
Seller: Shauneen Kocot
Date: 08/15/24

65 Dunphy Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $332,000
Buyer: Brian Dipippo
Seller: Christopher J. Campbell
Date: 08/09/24

103 High St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $368,000
Buyer: Michele Ruschhaupt
Seller: Robert Kowalewski
Date: 08/09/24

22 Norfolk Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $869,000
Buyer: Stanley T. Thacker
Seller: Barbara Dafoe Whitehead TR
Date: 08/16/24

128 North St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,200,000
Buyer: Gennady Katsnelson
Seller: Hamp 2020 LLC
Date: 08/09/24

329 Riverside Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Lee Holmes
Seller: Northeast Asset Mgmt. LLC
Date: 08/16/24

84 Sandy Hill Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Liam H. McCann
Seller: Michael Korpita
Date: 08/14/24

Strong Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Strong Ave. LLC
Seller: Conway RT
Date: 08/06/24

23 Upland Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $867,000
Buyer: Robert A. Spence RET
Seller: Nancy A. Cheevers
Date: 08/05/24

95 Washington Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Abby W. McElroy
Seller: Morton, Michael C., (Estate)
Date: 08/05/24

PELHAM

40 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $799,900
Buyer: Elizabeth Lutwak
Seller: Bisgaard, Sue E., (Estate)
Date: 08/15/24

PLAINFIELD

278 Main St.
Plainfield, MA 01330
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Robert J. Cole
Seller: Matthew H. Stowell
Date: 08/12/24

120 Pleasant St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $701,900
Buyer: Patrick Walsh
Seller: Eric A. Light
Date: 08/13/24

SOUTH HADLEY

72 Ferry St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Catherine Lecesse
Seller: Norman J. Moreau TR
Date: 08/15/24

5 Grove St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Neil E. Bergstrom
Seller: Michael Lynch
Date: 08/08/24

525 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Jeffrey P. Chateauneuf
Seller: Fitzgerald, Julie, (Estate)
Date: 08/05/24

38 Westbrook Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Lynn Boucher
Seller: Veteran Stan LLC
Date: 08/15/24

SOUTHAMPTON

138-C Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Andrew Valles
Seller: Karena I. Dobiecki
Date: 08/15/24

169 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Tenzin Shawa
Seller: Benjamin S. Fassett
Date: 08/14/24

WARE

17 Beech Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $398,000
Buyer: Charles W. Kane
Seller: Cristina Diaz
Date: 08/08/24

120 Church St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Maxwell Labier
Seller: Christine E. Kent
Date: 08/16/24

1 Fisherdick Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Christopher L. Fabrycki
Seller: Cassidy Connolly
Date: 08/16/24

2-A&B Mirabile Dr.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Gregg Harrison
Seller: Janet M. Harrison
Date: 08/14/24

28 Pine St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Jackson A. Santiago
Seller: Angelique C. Cordeau
Date: 08/12/24

64 Pleasant St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Berkshire Property Buyer
Seller: Robert C. Darling
Date: 08/09/24

5 Towne St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: Robert Darling
Seller: Gordon Duke
Date: 08/09/24

WESTHAMPTON

253 Kings Hwy.
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Thomas Stang
Seller: Jace M. Bryan
Date: 08/14/24

170 Laurel Hill Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Casey Sims
Seller: Thomas J. Moore
Date: 08/16/24

WILLIAMSBURG

2 Laurel Road
Williamsburg, MA 01039
Amount: $469,900
Buyer: Kaya R. Rose
Seller: Golden Mas LLC
Date: 08/09/24

WESTHAMPTON

61 Chesterfield Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $414,255
Buyer: Peter E. Montague
Seller: Matthew F. Montague
Date: 08/07/24

Northwest Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Walto
Seller: Gary Wickland
Date: 08/08/24

181 Northwest Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Beth Ramey
Seller: Barry G. Brandow
Date: 08/05/24

28 Pine Island Lake
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Roberta M. London-Levy
Seller: Lawrence B. Smith
Date: 08/08/24

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of August 2024.

CHICOPEE

A3 Sheridan LLC
1040 Sheridan St.
$45,000 — Install concrete pad for future dry-ice silo

Dunkin’
1599 Memorial Dr.
$20,989.96 — Install commercial fire-alarm system

O’Leary-Vincunas LLC
2140 Westover Road
$45,000 — Framing, drywall, and replace windows and doors

EASTHAMPTON

Interland Real Estate LLC
180 Pleasant St., Suite 212
$30,701 — Remove doors, duct work and grills, install hot water, and modify sprinklers

Neari
203 East St.
$6,450 — Cut opening in block wall for double-hung window, install header

Nonotuck Properties LLC
40 Maine Ave.
$15,000 — Add interior partition walls, add raised floor, widen bathroom footprint, and add passageway from shop to back storage room

Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield
33 Adams St.
$46,000 — Roofing at Our Lady of the Valley Parish

PITTSFIELD

Berkshire Fund Inc.
18 George St.
$3,600 — Install five new replacement windows

Jedko Properties LLC
199 South St.
$94,475 — Replace five gas-fired, packaged HVAC units on roof

Verizon New England Inc.
24 Federal St.
$2,487,931 — Roofing

Wahconah/Grove Street Nominee
25 Grove St.
$9,000 — Fire alarm

SPRINGFIELD

50 Century LLC
1003 St. James Ave.
$35,000 — Remodel interior space, remove overhead door, and install new door

1441 Main Street LLC
1441 Main St.
$47,000 — Alter tenant office space on second floor for Department of Early Education and Care

Behavioral Health Network Inc.
471 Chestnut St.
$22,500 — Remove and replace existing handicap ramp

Breakthrough Worship Center
133 Longhill St.
$120,000 — Roofing

City of Springfield
299 Sumner Ave.
$2,294,000 — Modifications and upgrades to Walker Grandstand at Forest Park, including masonry, roof covering, restrooms, plumbing, lighting, and accessibility ramps

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
1000 West Columbus Ave.
$250,000 — Alter interior tenant office space on first floor for Liberty Mutual

Radha Swami 2351 LLC
1245 Boston Road
$9,208 — Replace three windows at Sunshine Dental

Restoration Worship Center
1492 Boston Road
$70,000 — Interior demolition

Springfield Technical Community College
1 Federal St.
$211,000 — Insulation and air sealing at STCC Technology Park

State 305 LLC
305 State St.
$25,346 — Roofing for Admire Dental

W.W. Grainger Inc.
790 Cottage St.
$58,880 — Install solar panels to roof

Recessions, Market Crashes, and What Those Terms Really Mean

By Contributor
Wealth Management

Behind the Scary Words

By Zach Bass

 

When was the last time you heard about the term ‘recession?’ How about ‘market crash?’ Often, folks think of these as one and the same, and understandably so. These are posted all over the news. They can make you feel like you’re at your favorite amusement park, and you know that big drop is feet ahead. While both can cause fear and anxiety, understanding the difference between the two is crucial for making informed decisions and helping you sleep at night.

The good news is that, not only do these two terms not always go hand-in-hand, sometimes they can be exact opposites. That won’t have us glued to the news, though. It won’t make us feel like all of our hard-earned money is going to be gone tomorrow. And over the last decade, as Google has become a verb, more people fear losing money — or losing it all — than they fear death.

Zach Bass

Zach Bass

“A dip is a small decline in the market. We normally experience these three to four times a year, where the market will fall roughly 5% from its most recent high. However, they are generally short-lived, lasting only a few days or weeks.”

 

What Is a Recession?

A recession is a decline in economic activity spread across the economy for two quarters in a row (six months). It is characterized by a decrease in real gross domestic product, rising unemployment, and reduced consumer spending. These events typically also last longer than market declines. The most important thing you should take away from this is that you cannot calculate if a country or economy is in a recession until six months after key events have already unfolded. This is like looking in your rear-view mirror.

 

What Is a Market Crash?

This is an interesting question because everyone has their own definition of a crash. However, there are three terms that we refer to in the financial industry: a dip, a correction, and a bear market. Now, these are normal activities, and if viewed correctly, could actually be positive. However, I would like to take a moment to tell you about the historic bear and bull symbols of Wall Street. They were chosen for the way these strong animals attack. The bull will thrust its horns up, while the bear swipes its paw down.

How are the three terms different?

• A dip is a small decline in the market. We normally experience these three to four times a year, where the market will fall roughly 5% from its most recent high. However, they are generally short-lived, lasting only a few days or weeks.

• A correction is 10% off the most recent high and occurs roughly every two years, generally lasting around four months on average.

• A bear market is a drop of 20% or more. These are much harder to determine the length and severity. I believe we all remember that thing called COVID? As the world shut down in March 2020, the market fell more than 30%. In July of that same year, we had returned to the previous all-time high.

Here is how rarely these events occur. Since Black Monday in 1987, when the U.S. stock market fell roughly 20% in one day, we have only seen four of these events:

• 2000-02: Y2K had passed, the dot-com bubble burst, 9/11 tossed us into a full-blown recession, and 2002 was the worst of the three years.

• 2007-09: Subprime mortgage and banking crisis.

• 2020: We have already discussed the arrival of COVID.

• 2022: A brief bear market driven by rising interest rates to combat inflation.

The stock market is driven by expectations. It is the front window to your car. When a company or an economy act as expected, everything is fine. When you do not meet your expectations, you are disciplined. When a company is disciplined, its stock price goes down.

 

Conclusion

I promised a for how you can benefit from these types of events. I want to remind you of the term ‘buy low, sell high.’ The financial markets are the only ‘store’ where, when there is a ‘sale’ sign, people run away. Yet, every year, people stampede into Black Friday sales. If gas was a $1 a gallon, the lines would be crazy. But in the markets, when everyone is panicking, it might be the right time to say, what should I be buying?

It is always a great idea to periodically review what you actually own and make sure you’re comfortable with it. Some folks love having a financial or investment advisor as a partner, while some love to do research and make all the decisions themselves. Having the appropriate amount of cash on the side, and a plan for when these events occur, is so important.

 

Zach Bass is a chartered retirement planning counselor (CRPC), a fee-only financial advisor and fiduciary. Securities offered through Osaic Wealth Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Osaic Wealth is separately owned, and other entities and/or marketing names, products, or services referenced here are independent of Osaic Wealth. Wealth Management Resource Group is independently owned and operated.

The Big E Has a Big Impact

By
Opinion

Editorial

 

Depending on where you live, where you work, or where you operate a business, the Big E is either a big inconvenience or a big, as in big, and important engine for this region’s economy.

Actually, it’s both. But mostly, and to most people, it’s the latter.

Yes, it can be a disruptive force if you live within a mile or so of the fairgrounds, and especially if you do business on Memorial Avenue in West Springfield.

But mostly, it’s a powerful economic force, a 17-day fair that brings people, vitality, and various kinds of business to the region.

A 2019 economic impact study pegged the overall impact of the Big E at $681 million annually, a number that is now certainly much higher. It also brings thousands of jobs and millions in income-tax and sales-tax revenue.

There are dozens of business sectors, small businesses, and individuals that benefit from the Big E. That list includes hotels, motels, restaurants, and taverns; businesses that rent tents; gas stations and convenience stores; a certain casino in the South End of Springfield; and the businesses and residents around the Big E that devote their lawns and lots to fair parking.

It all adds up to a very large impact, one that can be measured in many different ways. Maybe the most effective is a glance back to 2020, the year when there wasn’t a Big E.

The negative impact was enormous. Hotels that booked rooms to visitors, vendors, horse-show participants, and more lost all of that. So did the restaurants, taverns, stores, and homeowners on the side streets off Memorial Avenue.

It was a crushing loss, something not covered by PPP or most any other form of relief.

So, when the Big E returned in 2021, those businesses, and this region as a whole, were all reminded of just how important the fair is to this region — not that anyone needed reminding.

As the 2024 fair continues, people are being reminded again. Those long lines of cars stretching down I-91 in both directions, and into downtown Springfield and deep into Agawam to the east and west, should be a very welcome sight, as much as they slow things down for area residents trying to get from here to there.

Those cars tell a story, a story not of traffic that is backed up, but one of a region getting a boost. A big boost.

Housing Stability for People with Disabilities

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Jennifer Gilbert and Angelina Ramirez

 

Massachusetts has a housing crisis. But we’re seeing how the push for solutions is having positive results.

The Massachusetts Legislature recently passed a housing bond bill designed to jump-start housing production and make housing more affordable. With this progress, now is a perfect moment to focus intentionally toward the needs of a population where housing instability can upend every facet of life: people with disabilities.

Turning our attention toward supporting this population is especially important because addressing the housing crisis for this population — about 12% of our Commonwealth’s households — requires distinct attention to distinct needs.

First, Massachusetts has some of the oldest housing stock in the country. We may be right to cherish our triple-deckers. They are, however, not easily converted for people who have mobility issues. Just a single step at an entrance or uneven floor levels can mean someone with a cane or walker or wheelchair cannot be housed. It is also a common reason people need to move: how many of us wonder how long we can climb the stairs?

In the western part of the state, there has been even less new housing production. New multi-family buildings are required to have accessible units, but we just don’t build that many. There is an opportunity with new housing production to address the range of needs of households with disabilities, with potential steps such as:

• Requiring, at the local planning level, that developers go beyond the federal housing requirement of at least 5% accessible units in new buildings;

• Requiring more universal access to address the fuller range of housing needs and aging in place; and

• Integrating processes that ensure people with disabilities are aware of and move into accessible housing once built.

Second, the goal must be both affordability and accessibility. Households with a disabled member are more likely to experience poverty. In line with national numbers, only about one-third of people with disabilities in Massachusetts are employed. Many rely on Supplemental Security Income, which is around $1,100 a month. For comparison, the median rent in Springfield is $1,047.

Stavros serves about 9,500 people a year in this population and helps about 200 new consumers a year find housing that works for them. In June, Housing Navigator Massachusetts released the first data on affordable and accessible housing in our state’s inventory of income-restricted housing — the very housing intended to serve low- and moderate-income households. The simple truth is that there is not much of this critical housing type, and the distribution is even more sparse outside Boston.

Even within the category of housing that is affordable and meets ADA access requirements, much is not affordable for the lowest-income households. This housing crunch is even more true for people who need a home that has two or more bedrooms, either because of a family or the need for an attendant or equipment. In Stavros’s service area, we identified only 950 affordable and accessible units, with only about one-third of those (337 units) serving people needing two or more bedrooms.

The data confirmed what many already knew: we need to build intentionally. We need to match dollars that lower the rent with homes in terms of location, layout, and other modifications that work for people with disabilities. Going forward, we must emphasize — down into the details that make the difference — housing that is both deeply affordable and accessible.

For everyone, a stable home is the foundation for everything we do. Now is the time to focus on housing that is affordable and accessible. These two measures add up to homes where people with disabilities have that same foundation and the opportunity to thrive.

 

Jennifer Gilbert is the founder and executive director of Housing Navigator Massachusetts, which offers a free online search tool and data about the Commonwealth’s affordable housing. Angelina Ramirez is the CEO of Stavros, a Western Mass. nonprofit that helps people with disabilities take charge of their own lives. She also serves on the Housing Navigator Massachusetts board of directors.

Easy Company Brewing to Bring the BUNKER! to the Big E

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Easy Company Brewing, a veteran-owned brewery whose mission is to help veterans and first responders by donating 100% of its profits to charities that do great work on their behalf, will be exhibiting at the 17-day Big E at a new beer garden called the BUNKER!

This will be a military-themed booth in front of the transportation building, behind the Maine building on the Avenue of States. Visitors to the BUNKER! will find several craft brews and swag — hats, sweatshirts, koozies, and more — the sale of which will support nearly a half-dozen charities that support veterans, first responders, and their families.

The beer garden will sell not only Easy Company Brewing’s two craft brews, but also Hanx Coffee, a new company created by actor Tom Hanks that has the same mission — to support veterans.

Co-founded by John DeVoie and Jeff St. Jean, friends and veterans who served together with the 104th Tactical Fighter Group in Westfield, Easy Company Brewing produces craft beers that celebrate chapters of the powerful story of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, known simply as Easy Company. This was the ‘band of brothers’ whose exploits during World War II are famously chronicled in the Stephen Ambrose book and HBO miniseries (produced by Hanks) that both took that name.

Easy Company Brewing now boasts several craft beers, including Currahee American Lager, named after Mount Currahee, which the men of East Company would scale nearly every day while training in Toccoa, Ga.; and Ald-Borne New English IPA, named after the small village in the south of England where Easy Company trained for the D-Day invasion.

The Easy Company Brewing story is unique not only because it blends beer with military history, but because, through its companion foundation, 100% of its profits go to support charities, specifically those that benefit veterans, first responders, and their families. These charity partners, all of which give a minimum of 80% of every dollar to boots-on-the-ground activities, are: the Fisher House Foundation, Homes for Our Troops, Operation Second Chance, Special Operations Warrior Foundation, and the Tunnel to the Towers Foundation.

The BUNKER! was created to bring attention to Easy Company Brewing and its unique mission — and to provide fairgoers with another intriguing craft-brew option, as well as Hanx Coffee.

“Our intent is to honor those who serve and have served with a kick-ass presentation,” said DaVoie, noting that the new beer garden will feature the flags of all the military services, a large American flag, sandbags, a Willys Jeep, and more. “We’ll be in a high-traffic area, so we hope we can attract large numbers of visitors to help us carry out our important mission.”

Added St. Jean, “we’ve had a presence at the Big E the past two years, and it has worked out well for us. With the help of the Big E and its president and CEO, Eugene Cassidy, we’re stepping up, moving to a larger, more visible space. We think this will help Easy Company Brewing gain more exposure and more support for the work carried out by the charities we partner with.”

Northampton Jazz Festival to Showcase More Than 50 Musicians on Sept. 27-28

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON—The Northampton Jazz Festival will bring more than 50 musicians from around the world to downtown Northampton on Friday, Sept. 27 and Saturday, Sept. 28.

The weekend’s events begin with two student jazz combos from the University of Connecticut and UMass Amherst performing at Pulaski Park the afternoon of Sept. 27, followed by an evening of live jazz at breweries, bars, and restaurants throughout downtown Northampton. Free performances will continue at five locations on Saturday, Sept. 28.

The full lineup of free Northampton Jazz Festival is available at northamptonjazzfest.org.

The headliner for this year’s festival is Anat Cohen Quartetinho, performing at the Academy of Music on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Anat Cohen is a Grammy-nominated, award-winning clarinetist who has created an intimate and joyful sound with her ensemble, Quartetinho. The ensemble of virtuosos includes bassist Tal Mashiach, pianist/accordionist Vitor Gonçalves, and vibraphonist/percussionist James Shipp.

Her concert is the only ticketed event of the festival; tickets cost $35 to $55 plus ticketing fees, available at aomtheatre.com or at the Academy of Music box office Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. Student tickets cost $20 plus fees.

“Anat Cohen inspired us to bring artists from countries around the world to the festival this yearm” said Ruth Griggs, president of the board of the Northampton Jazz Festival. “The magic of Quartetinho’s music springs from Anat and Tal’s Israeli roots blended with Vitor’s Brazilian influence. Combined with their virtuosity and creativity as musicians, this results in absolutely delightful music.”

Griggs said the festival board wanted to build on this and represent as many nations as possible at this year’s event, so musicians will come from India, Argentina, Cuba, Palestine, and Cameroon to downtown stages. “So we’ve themed this year’s festival ‘Jazz Without Borders.’ We think it will be a meaningful and joyful experience to hear the voices of true world musicians.”

Leading up to festival weekend, the Northampton Jazz Festival will once again partner with the Downtown Northampton Assoc. in creating Jazzy Arts Night Out on Friday, Sept. 13. Five local musicians will play at downtown locations from 5 to 8 p.m. as follows: pianist Rob Fontana at CLICK Workspace (6 to 8 p.m.), guitarist Robby Roiter at Assemble, pianist Sonny Raymond and guitarist Charlie Mitkowski at Ten Thousand Villages, vibraphonist Bruce Kelly at Michaelson’s Gallery, and singer Elena Ciampa at PINCH.

The performance schedule for all events is subject to change.

Now in its 13th year, the Northampton Jazz Festival brings more than 2,000 visitors to the city of Northampton. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation funded by local businesses, organizations, foundations, and individuals, which makes it possible to provide free live music to the general public.

“We are so appreciative of our local sponsors and donors for helping to make this festival happen each and every year,” Griggs said. “In this day of ever-increasing costs, we are committed to bringing the magic of live music to folks in downtown Northampton free of charge, hoping to lift spirits and bring some joy.”

Volunteers are needed to staff the Friday and Saturday events. To take part, visit northamptonjazzfest.org/volunteer.

Freedom Credit Union Seeking Donations in Support of Walk to End Alzheimer’s

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Throughout the month of September, Freedom Credit Union is accepting monetary donations at all its branches to benefit the Alzheimer’s Assoc. Walk to End Alzheimer’s, an event held annually in more than 600 communities nationwide, making it the largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research.

According to the Alzheimer’s Assoc., one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, and more than 7 million Americans are living with the disease. This year alone, Alzheimer’s and other dementias will cost the U.S. $360 billion — a number projected to rise to nearly $1 trillion by 2050.

“Alzheimer’s disease isn’t just a staggering statistic; for many of us, it’s deeply personal, taking away precious memories and connections with our loved ones,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said. “That’s why we’re committed to supporting the Alzheimer’s Association once again by forming a team to walk and by raising funds for breakthroughs in the fight against dementia.”

Freedom Credit Union is accepting donations through Saturday, Sept. 30. Local walks in Western Mass. this year will be held in Adams on Saturday, Oct. 5, and at Holyoke Community College on Sunday, Oct. 20. The Freedom Credit Union team is participating in the walk in Holyoke.

Westfield State University Introduces Federal Business-development Program

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WESTFIELD — Westfield State University, in partnership with the Washington D.C.-based Parker Group Academy, announced the launch of a new federal business-development program beginning this fall.

The focus of this program is to provide participants with the skills and techniques needed to create compliant and compelling proposals that result in funding. Course participants develop strategies for maintaining successful government partnerships and delivering quality service. The program’s course content was developed by experts with a proven track record of securing government contracts.

With real-world industry and federal government experience, Parker Group’s expertise is expected to benefit students, industry leaders, civilian government personnel, active military, veterans, guard members, and more.

The federal business-development program consists of four consecutive month-long courses beginning Oct. 15 and ending Feb. 27. Individual classes will be held live online on Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m.

For more information regarding this program or to register online for courses, visit www.westfield.ma.edu/businessdev.

Sen. Adam Gomez Announces Funds for Local Cultural Councils

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BOSTON — State Sen. Adam Gomez joined the Massachusetts Cultural Council in announcing two new grants awards coming to the Hampden district as part of the organization’s Local Cultural Council (LCC) program. In the first round of funding, the Springfield Cultural Council and Chicopee Cultural Council are set to receive $258,500 and $71,600, respectively, to support a broad range of local projects and programming.

“I am proud to see this funding come to an area that is rich in cultural wealth and looks to make even more improvements in the coming years,” Gomez said. “Our local cultural councils do a great job in representing the community and reflecting the values they hold in a beautiful way, and I am glad to support these organizations and their funding goals annually to ensure that they may continue to enrich our lives in turn.”

As the Commonwealth’s independent state arts agency, the Massachusetts Cultural Council is charged with bolstering the creative and cultural sector, thereby advancing economic vitality, supporting transformational change, and celebrating, preserving, and inspiring creativity across all Massachusetts communities. The agency pursues this mission through a wide range of grants, initiatives, and advocacy for artists, communities, organizations, and schools.

In FY 2025, the agency will invest $5.7 million into the LCC program, the nation’s largest volunteer-based, grassroots arts and cultural public funding network. In total, 329 local and regional cultural councils award annual grants, ensuring public investment in, and access to, arts and culture in every Massachusetts community. LCC grant awards, typically between $500 and $750, support a broad range of projects and programs, such as operating support, ticket subsidies, field trips, artist residencies, public art, fellowships, community events and programs, site-specific projects, and other activities, based on local priorities. Both individuals and organizations are eligible for funding.

bankESB to Host Two Free Shred Days

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. No appointment is necessary.

Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on Saturday, Oct. 5 at the 253 Triangle St., Amherst office, and on Saturday, Oct. 26 at the 241 Northampton St., Easthampton office.

Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information, and having them shredded safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

AIC Awarded Life-sciences Grant to Modernize Science Labs

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SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) has been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center’s Workforce Development Capital Grant Program to support the renovation and upgrade of the college’s Old Science Building and fund the purchase of new equipment for life-sciences courses within the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences. Renovation work is scheduled to begin this fall.

The grant was part of a broader $13.1 million in funding announced on July 22 by the Healey-Driscoll administration.

“Our workforce remains our calling card in the life sciences and other key sectors thanks to our top-tier educational system and outstanding training and higher-education institutions,” Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll said. “We are incredibly proud to support so many institutions, students, and teachers with these awards as we expand opportunity regionally and grow a talent pool that is the envy of the world for life-science employers.”

The Old Science Building, constructed in 1956, marked the beginning of a new era of development on AIC’s historic campus. Located on the eastern side of the main quadrangle and notable for its small greenhouse at the center of its façade, the brick building was originally designed to accommodate the biology and chemistry labs and classrooms, which had previously been housed in Olde Hall, a wooden structure built in 1892.

Today, the Old Science Building continues to serve as the venue for courses in biology and chemistry. The effort to secure this funding was led by Susanne Swanker, dean of the School of Business, Arts, and Sciences, along with a dedicated team of life-sciences faculty members who supported the grant application and will oversee the improvements.

“This grant represents a significant investment in the future of our students and the life sciences program at AIC,” Swanker said. “By modernizing the Old Science Building, we are not only preserving a piece of our history, but also providing our students with the innovative tools and environment they need to excel in an increasingly competitive field. We are grateful for the support of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center and look forward to the enhanced learning opportunities this will create for AIC students.”

In addition to the physical upgrades, the funding will also help purchase new equipment for teaching labs in molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and microbiology. These state-of-the-art facilities will provide students with hands-on experience in settings that closely replicate real-world labs, enhancing their learning and ensuring the curriculum reflects current industry standards.

Home Builders and Remodelers Assoc. Names Zach Kushner New President

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CHICOPEE — The Home Builders and Remodelers Assoc. of Western Massachusetts announced the appointment of Zach Kushner as its new president. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the role, having founded First Peak Construction.

Kushner is a graduate of UMass Amherst, where he earned a degree in building and construction technology. He then embarked on a successful career with Gilbane Building Co., one of the nation’s largest commercial construction firms. During his tenure at Gilbane, he was integral to the construction-management teams responsible for delivering numerous high-profile projects spanning various sectors, including healthcare, K-12 education, higher education, and underground infrastructure.

In his professional journey, Kushner has excelled in multiple roles, from project engineer to project manager to now running a successful commercial general contracting firm. This diverse experience has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of both project management and field operations. As a commercial property owner, he recognizes the importance of communication, organization, and transparency with clients, and is dedicated to overseeing every phase of the construction project life cycle, ensuring attention to detail from the initial concept to the final issuance of a certificate of occupancy.

“We are excited to welcome Zach Kushner to our leadership team,” said Andrew Crane, executive director of the Home Builders and Remodelers Assoc. of Western Massachusetts. “Zach’s extensive background in construction management, coupled with his passion for delivering outstanding results, aligns perfectly with our mission at the Home Builders Association.”

MCLA Education Department to Host Professional-development Evening at BIC

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — The MCLA Alumni Assoc. and the MCLA Division of Graduate and Continuing Education will gather at the Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC) on Friday, Sept. 27 at 4:30 p.m. for an evening of professional development and networking. BIC is located at 45 Woodlawn Ave., Pittsfield.

Alumni and guests will hear insights from MCLA education experts on the latest trends, strategies, and innovations. Registration is free and requested by Sept. 16, and includes light bites and a drink ticket.

“We’re starting to combine events with alumni and our current educators in the field,” said Lynette Bond, dean of Graduate and Continuing Education at MCLA. “It’s great for everyone to have a chance to network and talk through challenges and opportunities about what’s happening in the field today.”

MCLA Associate Professor of Education Maggie Clark will present on the current and new programming at the college, while other presenters and educators will talk about developments in the field, including resources for educators working on emergency teaching licenses.

For more information and registration, click here or email [email protected].

Holyoke Mall to Host Get Hired Job Fair on Sept. 18

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mall invites area businesses to connect with eager job seekers during the Get Hired Job Fair, sponsored by Libertas Academy, 22 News, and 94.7 WMAS, on Wednesday, Sept. 18 from 1 to 4 p.m. on the lower level in Macy’s Court.

As the largest shopping destination in Western Mass., Holyoke Mall serves as a hub for the community, making it an ideal backdrop for employers to fill their open positions before the holiday season. Employers are invited to take advantage of this convenient opportunity to network with candidates at all skill levels and perform on-the-spot interviews and hiring.

The event is free for job seekers. Participating employers include Libertas Academy, PeoplesBank, Baystate Health, the Department of Developmental Services, ServiceNet, and more. Interested employers should contact James Geraghty, Advertising manager at the Holyoke Mall, at (617) 840-2998 or [email protected]. For full details and information regarding the Get Hired Job Fair, visit holyokemall.com.

Scientific Review Reveals Top Three Effective Ways to Stop Smoking

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Daily News

AMHERST — A major new review of evidence by a team of scientists, including a UMass Amherst public-health researcher, has identified the three best strategies for quitting smoking:

• Varenicline, a prescription drug sold under the brand names Chantix and Champix, among others;

• Cytisine, a plant-based compound not widely available in the U.S. but sold as an over-the-counter natural health product (Cravv) in Canada and throughout Central and Eastern Europe, and available under prescription in the United Kingdom; and

• Nicotine e-cigarettes.

The review, published Sept. 4 in the journal Addiction, was conducted by the nonprofit Cochrane Tobacco Addiction Group (CTAG) and led by senior author Jamie Hartmann-Boyce, assistant professor of Health Policy and Management in the UMass Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences, and lead author Jonathan Livingstone-Banks, a University of Oxford researcher in England.

Worldwide, smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death, resulting in more than 7 million deaths per year.

“For people who smoke cigarettes, the single best thing they can do for their health is to quit smoking,” says Hartmann-Boyce, a Cochrane editor who conducted research at Oxford before joining UMass Amherst. “However, many people find it difficult to do so. Fortunately, there is strong evidence to support the use of a number of different ways to quit smoking.”

The three top strategies for quitting work best when combined with behavioral support, such as counseling, the review states. Bupropion and nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) are also effective, especially NRT patches combined with fast-acting forms like gum. “For behavioral support, evidence is strongest for counseling and for programs that reward people for stopping smoking,” Hartmann-Boyce added.

CTAG’s new summary outlines the key findings from 14 Cochrane reviews that CTAG published between 2021 and 2023. Three Cochrane reviews included in this summary are particularly noteworthy:

• The updated Cochrane review on NRT for smoking cessation found high-certainty evidence that combining a fast-acting form of NRT (gum, lozenges, or sprays) with NRT patches helped more people to quit than single-form NRT alone.

• The Cochrane review of e-cigarettes for smoking cessation is a living, systematic review: review authors search for new studies monthly and update the review whenever new data emerge. The latest update concluded that there is high‐certainty evidence that e-cigarettes with nicotine increase quit rates compared with NRT, and moderate‐certainty evidence that they increase quit rates compared with e-cigarettes without nicotine.

• The 2023 Cochrane review of pharmacological and e-cigarette interventions for smoking cessation included all drugs licensed as treatments for smoking cessation anywhere in the world, as well as e-cigarettes with or without nicotine. The review included 319 studies (157,179 participants). The most effective interventions were nicotine e‐cigarettes, varenicline, and cytisine, all of which had high-certainty evidence, closely followed by combination NRT.

The updated Cochrane review on nicotine receptor partial agonists (varenicline and cytisine) for smoking cessation found that, in studies directly comparing cytisine and varenicline, there may be no difference between either medication for quitting smoking. The review included 75 trials.

“Our team will continue to review evidence on the best ways to help people quit smoking, as we know how vitally important this is to people who smoke and to public health,” Hartmann-Boyce said.

Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services Announces 2024 Family Reunion Weekend

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services (MLKFS) will host its inaugural 2024 Family Reunion Weekend celebration on Sept. 7-8, at its Community Center.

“The Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services 2024 Family Reunion celebrates the historic, deep commitments and investments in the lives and futures of Springfield residents,” said Dr. Frank Robinson, 2024 MLKFS Family Reunion committee chair. “We also celebrate its new president and CEO, Shannon Rudder, and her bold vision for the future of MLKFS. In the spirit of family, she invites us all to join hands in continuing the legacy of service, unity, and empowerment that has defined this organization. Together, we can build on the foundation laid by those who came before us, ensuring a brighter and more equitable future for generations to come.”

A FamilyFun Day will be held on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Attendees will enjoy food from local vendors; invited to take Community Center tours; participate in spades, Scrabble, dominoes, and chess tournaments; and enjoy karaoke, family relay games, face painting, and an opportunity to share and archive their MLKFS legacy story.

Fellowship & Worship will be held on Sunday, Sept. 8 at 4 p.m. There is no MLKFS without the vision of Project Mustard Seed, and attendees will gather in that spirit and tradition with a worship service under the leadership the Rev. Terrlyn Curry Avery, pastor of Martin Luther King Jr. Community Presbyterian Church, welcoming the Rev. Ronald Peters, Project Mustard Seed visionary leader. This celebration will also feature a MLK Community Choir under the direction of Elder Terrence Haynes, accompanied by Terrence Schider.

“Our fellowship is powerful,” Rudder said. “Together, we will gather to honor our ancestorial legacy leaders, the many who make up the fabric of MLKFS in our region, and the dreamers who are investing in the vision forward.”

For event details and to pre-register, click here.

Dietz & Company Architects Welcomes Two New Employees

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Daily News

Shreya Sanghvi and Noel Aguilar

SPRINGFIELD — Dietz & Company Architects Inc. announced the recent addition of two new employees at the firm.

Noel Aguilar has joined Dietz in the role of project manager. He holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture from the University of Texas at Arlington. He has worked for architecture firms in Texas, most recently in design and construction for retail-store development. He also has many years of experience working on the construction side of the industry. Aguilar specializes in design for medical office and industrial buildings and also has a particular interest in the hospitality sector.

Shreya Sanghvi has joined Dietz in the role of architectural associate. She recently completed her master’s degree in architecture and urban design at New York Institute of Technology (NYIT), where she completed her thesis focusing on design strategies to overcome the disconnection of a complex Brazilian neighborhood while also creating a sustainable environment. She also holds a bachelor’a degree in architecture from the Dr. Bhanuben Nanavati College of Architecture for Women in Pune, India. Sanghvi has experience working as a architectural designer and intern for firms in India and most recently as a graduate assistant in the Architecture Department at NYIT.

Bulkley Richardson Welcomes Andrew Loin to Firm

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Andrew Loin has joined Bulkley Richardson as an associate in the Real Estate department.

Loin graduated from Western New England University School of Law, summa cum laude, in 2024, where he was the editor in chief of the Western New England Law Review, a member of the Environmental Law Moot Court Team, and an Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. Scholar. He was also awarded the CATIC Foundation Award for Achievement in Real Property Coursework.

Loin was a summer associate at Bulkley Richardson in 2023. He completed internships with Green Miles Lipton and the Hampden Probate and Family Court. He also participated in Western New England’s real-estate practicum, where he was placed with CATIC and a local residential real-estate attorney’s office.

“We are ecstatic to have Andrew join our real-estate team,” said Kathy Bernardo, chair of the firm’s Real Estate practice. “As a practice that often supports other disciplines at the firm, the demands on real-estate lawyers continue to grow. Andrew has an exceptional work ethic and a service-minded approach that will help us to support the legal needs of our clients.”

Community Bank Hires Darcy Tarte as New England Regional Retail Banking Manager

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Daily News

Darcy Tarte

WILLISTON, Vt. — Community Bank recently welcomed Darcy Tarte as regional Retail Banking manager. In her new role, Tarte will lead, oversee, and manage the Retail Banking team and retail banking relationships across the bank’s New England footprint in Vermont, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Tarte has 30 years of experience in the banking industry. Prior to joining Community Bank, she served as regional market manager at TD Bank and as market manager at People’s United Bank.

“I’m excited to welcome Darcy to Community Bank and look forward to Darcy and the New England team working together as we continue to build upon our efforts to grow the bank’s retail business across our New England footprint,” said Hal Wentworth, Community Bank’s senior vice president of Retail Banking and Marketing.

Tarte earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and banking from the New England College of Business and Finance. She serves on the board of the Addison County Economic Development Corp. in Middlebury, Vt.

Springfield Museums Announce 2024 Ubora, Ahadi Recipients

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SPRINGFIELD — The African Hall Committee of the Springfield Museums announced the recipients of the prestigious Ubora Award and Ahadi Youth Award, which will be presented at a ceremony at the Museums on Saturday, Sept. 21 at 6 p.m.

Rosemary Tracy Woods, executive director of Art for the Soul Gallery, is this year’s Ubora Award recipient, and Jackson Counsel-Watkins, a 2024 graduate of Central High School who is now a freshman at UMass Amherst, was chosen for the Ahadi Youth Award.

“This is an exciting opportunity to celebrate a phenomenal community leader and an outstanding scholar,” said Terry Powe, chair of the African Hall Committee. “Celebrate culture and excellence with us. This is an exceptional evening you do not want to miss.”

Named for the Swahili word meaning ‘excellence,’ the Ubora Award has been awarded annually since 1992 to an African-American adult who has demonstrated a commitment to Greater Springfield and exhibited excellence in the fields of community service, education, science, humanities, or the arts.

Rosemary Tracy Woods

Woods is known throughout New England as a passionate advocate for social justice. In her role at Art for the Soul, she has championed the transformative power of artistic expression, particularly for African-American and Latinx communities, Native American artists, and those with disabilities like the visually and hearing impaired.

Beyond exhibitions, Woods collaborates extensively with local and state cultural councils, cementing her role as a catalyst for arts advocacy. Her accolades, including being appointed by then-Gov. Deval Patrick as Advocate for the Arts in Western Massachusetts and prestigious awards like the 2021 Newell Flather Award and the 2024 Pan African Historical Museum Legacy Award, underscore her impact. She was appointed the Western Mass. coordinator for the creative economy with the assistance of the Springfield City Council, and also aided Anita Walker, former executive director of the Massachusetts Cultural Council, in establishing the first cultural district in Western Mass.

Jackson Counsel-Watkins

Counsel-Watkins was selected to receive the Ahadi Youth Award, given since 2009 to an African-American student (age 19 or younger) who embodies the Swahili word for ‘promise’ and excels both in academics and service to the Greater Springfield community.

An outstanding student with a GPA of 4.0, Counsel-Watkins pursued a rigorous course load in high school, including multiple AP classes. She was also a member of the track and field team and the cheerleading squad. She also co-founded Central High School’s Black Student Union and served as its first president. In this role, she fostered an environment of inclusivity and empowerment for her peers. She was a two-year member of the Hampden County district attorney’s Youth Advisory Board, teen president of the Western Mass. chapter of Jack and Jill of America, and a member of the National Honor Society.

At UMass Amherst, Jackson plans to major in speech, language, and hearing sciences with the goal of becoming a speech-language pathologist. She credits her mother with inspiring her to work hard, be kind, and help others.

Sponsored by Baystate Health, the 2024 Ubora and Ahadi Awards ceremony is open to the public. To purchase tickets or donate to the Ahadi Scholarship Fund, visit springfieldmuseums.org/ubora.

McGill Hose and Coupling to Participate in NAHAD Hose Safety Awareness Week

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Daily News

EAST LONGMEADOW — McGill Hose and Coupling announced its full participation in the upcoming NAHAD (National Assoc. of Hose and Accessories Distribution) Hose Safety Awareness Week, taking place Sept. 8-14. As a leading provider in the hose and coupling industry, McGill Hose & Coupling is fully committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of every hose assembly that leaves its fabrication facility.

Throughout Hose Safety Awareness Week, McGill Hose and Coupling will shine a spotlight on a variety of products that address critical safety topics, offering insights into how solutions can help safeguard operations. This initiative underscores the dedication to the safety of customers’ facilities, equipment, and personnel.

The week’s activities will culminate in a vendor showcase and open house on Thursday, Sept. 12. Customers are invited to tour the state-of-the-art facility, engage with product experts, and meet with key vendors who provide the high-quality hose components that contribute to safer working environments.

McGill Hose & Coupling encourages anyone that is involved with the safety of operation of equipment within a facility to join in this effort to promote hose safety and discover how McGill Hose and Coupling can support businesses with reliable, safe, and efficient hose solutions.

Pro & Local Detailing’s Annual Charity Car Show to Benefit Veterans’ Home

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Daily News

ENFIELD, Conn. — Pro & Local Detailing will host its fifth annual Charity Car Show at the Polish American Club of Agawam on Saturday, Sept. 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will be free to attend, with donations required to enter a vehicle into the show. All makes and models are welcome. There will be food, drinks, and awards.

All proceeds will benefit the Veterans’ Home in Holyoke. Previous years have raised more than $7,500 for veterans, and owner Paul Frasco hopes to continue to make a local impact.

“Pro & Local has been passionate about our veterans and our local community since day on,” Frasco said. “We wanted to partner with the Veterans’ Home in Holyoke because we knew it was the best way to make a hyper-local impact in supporting our veterans.”

This year’s event is hosted by Pat Kelly of Rock 102 and sponsored by other local businesses in the area, including Mothers Polishes, the Springfield Thunderbirds, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, EMP, State Line Propane & Oil, Rick’s Auto Body, Mark’s Auto Parts Inc., GreatHorse Country Club, the Car Club of New England, and Cloud 9 Marketing Group.

Whip City Animal Sanctuary to Host Cruise Night on Oct. 13

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Daily News

WESTFIELD — Whip City Animal Sanctuary will host its first Hogs & Horsepower Car & Bike Show on Sunday, Oct. 13 at 232 Montgomery Road, Westfield.

“We’re excited to host our first car show. There will be prizes, snacks, and adult beverages to purchase and, of course, lots of animals to visit,” the organization stated. “We’re looking for folks to bring their hot rods out for the day. Our entry fee is just $10.”

Event details can be found on the sanctuary’s website (www.whipcityanimalsanctuary.com) and Facebook page.

Whip City Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides long-term care for more than 100 abandoned, rescued, and surrendered farm animals. The sanctuary is open for public visiting hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon.

bankESB Named Among Most Charitable Companies in Massachusetts

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — For the 10th straight year, bankESB has received the 2024 Corporate Citizenship Award from Boston Business Journal, recognizing the bank as one of Massachusetts’ top corporate charitable contributors.

The magazine annually publishes this list to showcase companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities. Through its sponsorship and charitable-giving program, the Giving Tree, bankESB and the Easthampton Savings Bank Charitable Foundation support nonprofit organizations and causes throughout Hampden and Hampshire counties. In 2023, the Giving Tree donated nearly $635,000, and over the past decade, it has donated more than $3.6 million.

“It is with honor that we present our list of the top charitable contributors in Massachusetts, companies who gave $100,000 or more to Massachusetts-based in charities in 2023. Collectively, they gave $362 million in cash contributions — a true example of the business community coming together to help those in need,” Boston Business Journal Market President and Publisher Carolyn Jones said.

This year, 100 companies qualified for the distinction by reporting at least $100,000 in cash contributions to Massachusetts-based charities last year, as noted above. The honorees this year include companies from such industry sectors as financial and professional services, healthcare, technology, retail, and professional sports.

“We’re so proud to be recognized for the past decade as a good corporate citizen because it’s truly a reflection of our core values,” bankESB President and CEO Matthew Sosik said. “We strive to unlock potential in the communities we live and work in and hope we can solve our biggest problems by working together.”

Seven Bacon Wilson Attorneys Recognized by Best Lawyers in America for 2025

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Bacon Wilson, P.C., with offices in Springfield, Northampton, Amherst, and Westfield, announced that seven of its attorneys have been recognized in the 2025 edition of Best Lawyers in America, including recognition in the Ones to Watch category.

They include:

• Kenneth Albano, business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships);

• Gina Barry, elder law;

• Gary Breton, banking and finance law and business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships);

• Hyman Darling, elder law;

• Michael Katz, bankruptcy and creditor-debtor rights/insolvency and reorganization law;

• Tyler Humphrey (Ones to Watch), banking and finance law; and

• Daniel McKellick (Ones to Watch), real-estate law.

Two Bacon Wilson attorneys were named Lawyer of the Year in Springfield for 2025: Breton for business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships), and Darling for elder law.

Inclusion in Best Lawyers in America and Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America is determined through a comprehensive peer-review survey.