Day: January 1, 2025

Picture This

By
Picture This

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

 

Fore a Good Cause

The Western Massachusetts Chapter of the National Tooling & Machining Assoc. held its annual WMNTMA Educational Fundraising Golf Tournament on Sept. 5 at Oak Ridge Golf Club, raising $19,740. Those proceeds were divided between the manufacturing technology programs at Westfield Technical Academy and Lower Pioneer Valley Career and Technical Education Center.

Pictured from left, WMNTMA President Ben Grande of Meridian Industrial Group, WMNTMA Executive Director Angie Beavis; Ron Nadeau, lead instructor of Manufacturing Technology at Westfield Technical Academy, and WMNTMA Vice President Gavin Giguere of Pilot Precision Products

 

Pictured: students at Lower Pioneer Valley Career and Technical Education Center with Principal/Director Donald Jarvis

 

Winter Clothing Drive

UMassFive College Federal Credit Union members, staff, and community partners donated hundreds of winter coats and clothing items to Amherst Survival Center, the Gray House in Springfield, and Net of Compassion in Worcester. UMassFive employee volunteers also sorted and organized donations received at the Hadley and Northampton branches into a winter clothing pop-up boutique at the Amherst Survival Center. Donations from the credit union’s Springfield branch were brought to the Gray House, and donations received at UMassFive’s Worcester branch were delivered to Net of Compassion.

Donations from the credit union’s Springfield branch were brought to the Gray House, and donations received at UMassFive’s Worcester branch were delivered to Net of Compassion.

 

 

Giving Tree Campaign

For the 23rd year, the Holyoke Community College (HCC) community collected hundreds of holiday gifts for consumers at four nonprofit agencies through its annual Giving Tree campaign. On Dec. 12, representatives from the four agencies — Homework House, the Holyoke Veterans Home, WestMass ElderCare, and the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children — attended a closing celebration where 302 gifts were distributed.

Pictured: Homework House’s Gloria Caballero Roca (left) and David Haslam collect gifts with the help of HCC Giving Tree committee member Mary Starzyk.

 

Agenda

By
Agenda

Royal Law Seminar

Jan. 8: The Royal Law Firm will present a seminar on “Compensation Plans and Contingent Compensation Pitfalls” from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at 33 Elliot St., Springfield. Attorney Trevor Brice will present an overview and discussion of the possible issues with current compensation plans and contingent compensation pitfalls made possible by recent court rulings. Some of the topics to be discussed include issues with current compensation plans under the FLSA, restrictive covenants and compensation plans, problems with commission-based compensation plans and possible solutions, and when a bonus is not actually a bonus and issues under the Massachusetts Wage Act. This seminar is ideal for HR professionals and anyone in a management position drafting compensation plans for current and prospective employees. The cost is $30 per person. Payments should be mailed, and checks made payable, to the Royal Law Firm, 33 Elliot St., Springfield, MA 01105. Registration is required, and seating will be limited. Email Heather Child at [email protected] to register or with any questions about the seminar.

 

Chamber of Greater Easthampton Meeting

Jan. 29: The Chamber of Greater Easthampton will hold its annual meeting from noon to 2 p.m. at the Jupiter Club, 116 Pleasant St., Suite 211, Easthampton. The annual meeting, the last one under retiring Executive Director Moe Belliveau, will not only highlight the chamber’s successes in the past year, but will offer chamber members the opportunity to provide feedback to shape the strategies for the coming year. The event will also welcome new members and showcase those members who celebrated a business milestone in 2024, including Hampton Flooring Center Inc., Besko’s Appliance, and Unbroken Wings Inc. for 25 years in business; USA Waste & Recycling and Wright Builders Inc. for 50 years in business; Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank for 135 years in business; and bankESB and Greenfield Savings Bank for 155 years in business. Registration costs $50 for members of the chamber ($65 for future members) and includes lunch. Reserved tables of eight are also available. For more information or to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or email [email protected].

 

Chicopee Chamber Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 28: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire the community. This year’s honorees are AJ Crane, owner of A. Crane Construction, as Citizen of the Year; Ashley Batlle, owner of Beauty Batlles Lounge, as Volunteer of the Year; the Springfield Thunderbirds as Business of the Year; and Health New England as Nonprofit of the Year. The Chicopee Chamber introduced Shining Stars in 1985 when Ernest Laflamme Jr. was recognized as the first Citizen of the Year. Recipients are selected by a nominating committee chaired by Laflamme and including Carol Campbell of Chicopee Industrial Contractors, Ted Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools, City Treasurer Marie Laflamme, Michael Siddall of Siddall & Siddall, P.C., and Jeffrey Sattler of Liberty Bank. The 40th annual Shining Stars Gala will take place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights at 1599 Memorial Dr. Tickets cost $75 per person. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call (413) 594-2101.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Hooplandia will host levels for all ages and divisions, which means every kind of player is welcome. As the premier 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the nine northeastern states, Hooplandia is still in its early years, but growing rapidly. In 2023 and 2024, the event was a resounding success. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. The expansive ESE grounds allow for growth as attendance numbers continue to climb each year. ESE and the Hall of Fame agree that Hooplandia must be an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com. Fees range according to age. Those that register before the end of the day on March 10 are treated to the 3 Point Perks package, which grants early teams access to limited-edition goodies. 3 Point Perks are not available after March 10, and registration prices increase after May 26 for late teams. Since its first year, Hooplandia has partnered with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout Western Mass., with $10 from every paid team registration supporting the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs and their programming. Hooplandia invites local businesses to explore sponsorship opportunities. Email [email protected] with inquiries.

 

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

MountainOne Insurance Acquires McClure Agency

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne Insurance Agency announced its recent acquisition of McClure Insurance Agency in West Springfield and Wilbraham. This is MountainOne Insurance’s second acquisition in the Pioneer Valley this year. For more than 100 years, the family-owned McClure Insurance Agency has offered insurance products to fit the needs of families and businesses. McClure Insurance Agency, as part of MountainOne, will now offer customers many enhanced services, including the addition of group employee benefits, life insurance, long-term-care insurance, Medicare products, and in-house claims services. Customers also have access to many new insurance carriers, widening their options for coverage at competitive rates. Agency Principal Mark McClure and the McClure Insurance Agency staff will remain with the agency, ensuring stability for clients. They will also maintain both office locations at 103 Van Deene Ave. in West Springfield and 2361 Boston Road in Wilbraham.

 

Willie Ross School, Bay Path Open Early-education Space

LONGMEADOW — Willie Ross School for the Deaf (WRSD) and Bay Path University held a joint ribbon cutting on Dec. 17 for newly developed early-education classroom space being created for Willie Ross on the Bay Path campus. The event celebrated the collaboration between the university and WRSD as it addresses the need for more early-education space. The space is located on the first floor of Theinert Hall, a multi-use residence hall on campus. The space developed in Bay Path’s Theinert Hall features approximately 7,500 square feet with four classrooms and several support rooms for students and staff. The process of transforming the space involved the demolition of first-floor dormitory rooms and bathrooms and the reconstruction of bathrooms and classrooms, along with the installation of required HVAC equipment, ceiling and lighting fixtures, and safety systems to meet current code requirements. The new space on the Bay Path campus will enable Willie Ross to serve an additional 20 students as the school has experienced a growing Early Childhood program. The classrooms will also provide opportunities for hands-on experience for Bay Path University students.

 

O’Dell Women’s Center Announces $250,000 in Grants

SPRINGFIELD — The O’Dell Women’s Center (OWC), Springfield’s first nonprofit women’s center, announced it has granted a total of $250,000 to eight other nonprofit organizations in Springfield to support programs that empower and create opportunities for low-income Springfield women. This funding will enhance access to educational resources, career development, and community support services, creating pathways for financial stability and self-sufficiency. The O’Dell Women’s center received 37 grant applications from Springfield area nonprofits. Of those applications, the OWC grant committee selected the following organizations for its 2024 grant awards: Dress for Success Western Massachusetts, Girls Inc. of the Valley, the Gray House, Holyoke Chicopee Springfield (HCS) Head Start, Hope for Youth and Families, Parent Villages, South End Community Center, and United Way of Pioneer Valley. Through the 2024 grants, OWC will support several educational programs for Springfield women, advance workforce development and career growth, and address essential needs like food security, childcare, and language skills.

 

Happier Valley Comedy Reaches Fundraising Goal

HADLEY — Happier Valley Comedy, the only improv comedy theater in Western Mass., recently hit its goal to raise $115,000 in order to unlock a previously awarded Mass Cultural Council Cultural Facilities Fund Capital Grant for the same amount, so it can build a new, fully accessible performance venue in Hadley. In addition to individual support for the small local arts nonprofit, several local companies stepped in to offer significant contributions, such as PeoplesBank, Diversified Equipment Services & Consulting Organizationof Hadley, and Greenfield Savings Bank. Adjacent to Happier Valley’s original space, which will be used as a classroom and lobby area, the new performance venue provides expanded and raised audience seating, a larger stage with an improv-friendly set, theatrical lighting, and a fully accessible stage. The final drawings have been inked by Thomas Douglas Architects of Northampton, which is working closely with Braidman and the team at Integrity Development & Construction of Amherst to complete construction by the end of summer 2025.

 

Sexton Roofing & Siding Wins Small Business Spotlight

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced Sexton Roofing & Siding as the grand prize winner of its inaugural Small Business Spotlight contest. Driven by community nomination, the contest winner was formally announced at the final UMass football home game of the season at McGuirk Alumni Stadium on Nov. 30, which was also Small Business Saturday. Sexton Roofing & Siding will be receiving an advertising package valued at $10,000 with UMass Athletics, allowing the business to be featured on digital displays, radio reads, and email blasts, as well as with tabling opportunities at the Mullins Center during UMass basketball and hockey home games for the remainder of the season. The Small Business Spotlight contest drew more than 125 nominations from across Western Mass., highlighting businesses that demonstrate service, innovation, and community involvement. Two secondary winners, K’s Nutrition of Amherst and CLINIC Alternative Medicines of Northampton, were also recognized with $500 cash prizes to support their ongoing efforts in the local community.

 

Comfort Bagel Opens in New Location in Westfield

WESTFIELD — Comfort Bagel opened its doors in a new location at 64 Main St. in Westfield. The store is relocating from Holyoke to better serve its expanding customer base. Comfort Bagel is known for its scratch-made, artisan, slow-fermented sourdough bagels available in traditional and innovative flavors that rotate weekly, including fan favorites like asiago parmesan, jalapeño cheddar, and salted rosemary. Last month, Westfield Mayor Mike McCabe joined Blake, representatives from the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, and property owner Rocco Falcone for a ribbon cutting. Comfort Bagel’s journey began during the pandemic, when Blake started a small cottage bakery in her West Springfield home, hoping to bring warmth and comfort to her community during uncertain times. She offered contact-free home delivery to surrounding towns, and the demand for her bagels grew so quickly that she opened a full-service shop at Open Square in Holyoke in July 2021. The new location in downtown Westfield is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week.

 

Food Bank Flips Switch to Solar Power at Headquarters

CHICOPEE — The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts announced the activation of its new solar-panel system at its food warehouse, resource, education, and advocacy center in Chicopee. Designed with sustainability and efficiency in mind, the Food Bank’s new center features state-of-the-art solar panels installed by PV Squared, a local leader in renewable-energy solutions. The installation includes panels on the rooftop and a solar canopy covering part of the parking lot. This innovative green-energy system will significantly reduce the Food Bank’s carbon footprint while meeting its substantial energy needs. The project was made possible through a congressionally directed Community Funding Project grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, thanks to the support of U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Edward Markey.

 

T-Birds Break Record at Teddy Bear Toss

SPRINGFIELD — For the first time in team history, the Springfield Thunderbirds eclipsed the 7,000-bear plateau as the team collected 7,162 stuffed animals during the ninth annual Teddy Bear Toss presented by Teddy Bear Pools & Spas inside the MassMutual Center on Dec. 7. All will be gifted to underprivileged youth in the Springfield and Western Mass. communities. Tyler Tucker’s third-period goal brought down the cavalcade of stuffed animals and ignited a Thunderbirds come-from-behind, overtime win over the Rockford IceHogs before a sellout crowd of 6,793 inside the Thunderdome on Saturday night. On Dec. 9, Thunderbirds players, mascot Boomer, and staff participated in part two of this celebrated tradition, delivering stuffed animals to a host of different youth-oriented benefactors, including the Center for Human Development, the Boys & Girls Club of Springfield, Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services, and the Boys & Girls Club Family Center. Other participating organizations include the Springfield YMCA, Square One, and the Ronald McDonald House of Springfield. Established during the Thunderbirds’ inaugural season in 2016, the Teddy Bear Toss has contributed more than 40,000 stuffed animals to local Springfield charities, all in the spirit of providing gifts and smiles to underprivileged and underserved youth in the Greater Springfield community.

 

Country Bank Donates $10,000 to Quaboag Valley CDC

WARE — Country Bank announced a $10,000 donation to the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp. (QVCDC) to help local communities in the region. “The Quaboag Valley Community Development Corporation is grateful for this generous donation from Country Bank,” said Melissa Fales, QVCDC executive director. “This donation will help us continue to run our Senior Outreach Program, which helps seniors with prescription pickup, grocery shopping, food-bank deliveries, and other chores. Country Bank’s support is not only an investment in the Quaboag Valley CDC’s mission, but an example of Country Bank’s commitment to making a difference in the community.” Seniors’ underlying medical conditions can significantly impact their ability to get out safely to meet their everyday needs. The deliveries allow them to remain safely at home while addressing their critical needs.

 

NBSB Announces Success of Food, Toy Drives

NORTH BROOKFIELD — In the spirit of season of giving, North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) announced the success of its annual food and toy drives. Due to the overwhelming generosity of community members, employees, and neighbors of NBSB, the food and toy drives made an impact in each of the bank’s communities. During the NBSB annual food drive, held Oct. 1-25, the bank’s communities came together to donate 693 non-perishable food items and more than $1,000 in monetary donations. NBSB contributed an additional $3,000 to further support local food pantries. These donations provide crucial assistance to individuals facing food insecurity. During the annual toy drive, which ran Nov. 1-29, community members, employees, and neighbors stepped up to the plate again, collecting 388 toys for children in need, alongside $1,432 in monetary donations. NBSB contributed an additional $1,500 to support those who need it the most and bring joy to children in the communities it serves this holiday season.

 

ViViYarn Fashion Opens Store in Hampshire Mall

HADLEY — ViViYarn Fashion celebrated its grand opening in the Hampshire Mall on Dec. 17. The new boutique focuses on unique, seasonal clothing for men and women. Current items include cashmere scarves and sweaters in a wide variety of designs and colors. General Manager Shawna Wang has more than 10 years of experience producing high-quality garments for the U.S. and Europe, and is dedicated to providing customers with comfort, elegance, and style at an affordable price.

 

Susan B. Anthony Museum Awarded Three Grants

ADAMS — The Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum received three grants from the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation for a total of $3,589.28, through its Berkshire Hills Fund for Excellence, Lee Educational Enrichment Fund, and Williamstown Elementary School Endowment Fund programs. This program brings the inspiring story of Berkshire County’s own Susan B. Anthony to students at W.E.B. Du Bois Regional Middle School in Great Barrington, Berkshire Hills Regional School District, Lee Middle and High School and Williamstown Elementary School. Muriel Dyas of Herstorically Speaking reenacts Susan B. Anthony while students complete a timeline of her life, learn about pay inequity, and make a special ballot vote. The event concludes with a ‘votes for women’ march around school grounds complete with suffrage sashes, buttons, and student-made protest signs.

 

Bombyx Center Achieves Carbon Conscious Business Accreditation from CET

NORTHAMPTON — Bombyx Center for Arts and Equity has been accredited Carbon Conscious, an award offered by CET, for implementing carbon-cutting measures at the performing-arts venue. This accreditation recognizes Bombyx’s dedication to combating climate change and fostering sustainability. The Bombyx Center is the first organization to achieve CET’s Carbon Conscious Business Accreditation, leading the way for businesses across all sectors to integrate sustainability as a core part of their operations. Its impact of reducing 800 lifetime tons of carbon is equivalent to the yearly carbon sequestration provided by 36,666 mature trees. CET worked closely with Bombyx to implement a range of impactful sustainability measures through both the Mass Save program and RecyclingWorks, a program CET administers for the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Custom weatherization services, including pipe insulation and other energy-saving upgrades, were provided to reduce energy loss at the historic former church. Additional efficiency upgrades, such as duct sealing and modifications, further optimized energy use throughout the facility. To tackle waste reduction, CET helped establish a food-waste diversion program in the multi-use kitchen and supported community recycling events, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

 

Baystate Health, Wellpoint Reach Contract Agreement

SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health and Wellpoint have reached a new, multi-year contract that maintains patients’ access to their current doctors and nurses. This means Wellpoint members will continue to have access to all Baystate Health hospitals, facilities, doctors’ offices, convenient care, and ancillary service centers, as well as its affiliated physicians through Baycare Health Partners, on Jan. 1, 2025 and beyond. “We are extremely pleased to have reached a new agreement with Wellpoint and ensure continued access for health-plan members to the care they receive at Baystate Health and our affiliated physicians through Baycare Health Partners,” said Peter Banko, president and CEO of Baystate Health. “From the beginning, our mutual goal was to ensure we continue to meet the needs of our patients today and in the future and protect their access to essential services in Western Massachusetts.” David Morales, general manager of Wellpoint, added that “we worked tirelessly to come to an agreement that preserves access to high-quality, affordable care at Baystate Health for Wellpoint members. We are pleased that our longstanding partnership with Baystate Health will continue promoting preventive care and supporting the whole health of the individuals our organizations serve across the Springfield region.”

 

Eversource Named Among Most Responsible Companies

BOSTON — For the sixth year in a row, Eversource Energy has been recognized by Newsweek and Statista Inc. as one of America’s Most Responsible Companies for 2025. The award highlights the energy company’s environmental, social, and corporate-governance (ESG) initiatives, reaffirming Eversource’s commitment to sustainability throughout its operations and a workplace culture that embraces the values of corporate and social responsibility. The America’s Most Responsible Companies 2025 ranking focuses on a holistic view of corporate responsibility that considers environmental, social, and governance factors. Companies on the 2025 list were selected based on a review of publicly available data and a survey of 26,000 U.S. residents about their perceptions of companies related to corporate social responsibility. Since the annual ranking was introduced in 2019, Eversource has appeared in every edition of the list.

 

People on the Move

By
People on the Move
Adam Moreau

Adam Moreau

The Springfield Rocks Media Group announced the addition of Adam Moreau as a senior media advisor for Rock 102, Lazer 99.3/98.5, and the digital team. He will officially join the team in January. Moreau began his career in radio more than 20 years ago and is excited to return to his roots while also bringing more than two decades of experience in multimedia sales. His passion and expertise, beginning in radio and encompassing television and advertising agency experience, will further enhance the media group’s ability to deliver multimedia solutions to clients across the region. He will serve clients throughout the group’s regional footprint. He will be based in the East Longmeadow office and report to Scott Monson, director of Sales, who echoed the sentiments of Ekblom, emphasizing the positive impact this addition will have on the team’s innovative approach to sales and exceeding clients’ needs. Moreau is a graduate of Western New England University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus in marketing communications/advertising, as well as an MBA.

•••••

Kelly Martins

Kelly Martins

bankESB recently hired Kelly Martins as social-media manager, based at its 36 Main St., Easthampton office. Martins earned a master’s degree in nonprofit management and philanthropy with a focus on strategic planning and implementation from Bay Path University. She joins the bank from GRATI Consulting, where she was the director of Marketing & Business Development.

•••••

The Springfield Museums announced that President and CEO Kay Simpson received the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award from the New England Museum Assoc. (NEMA). Each year, NEMA honors an individual who has made exceptional contributions to the museum field over the course of a distinguished career. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes a professional’s commitment to excellence, leadership in the field, service to others, and support of NEMA. Simpson is an experienced and entrepreneurial president and CEO with a history of working in museums and a background in leading high-profile curatorial and education projects that garner national attention. She provides strategic direction for one of New England’s premier cultural institutions, comprised of five museum buildings, the outdoor Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, and the childhood home of Theodor Seuss Geisel. Under her leadership, the Museums opened the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in 2017, which resulted in a dramatic increase in attendance and coverage from regional, national, and international media outlets. A strong proponent of museums as engines of economic development and urban revitalization, Simpson helped establish a cultural district in downtown Springfield and was instrumental in an inclusive public arts initiative that activated a public park that had been closed for decades. She passionately believes that museums are not only vibrant community centers for all, but also attract tourists and entrepreneurs, which in turn help communities foster new business growth for everyone’s benefit. Her service to NEMA includes her work as chair of the Education Professional Affinity Gathering and membership on the association’s board of directors.

•••••

Alexandra Chapman

Alexandra Chapman

Hometown Wealth Management congratulates Alexandra Chapman on her new role as a financial advisor, offering wealth-management and investment services through LPL Financial, located at bankESB’s 36 Main St., Easthampton office. Chapman started at bankESB in 2019 as a part-time teller and transitioned to work in the Commercial Credit department shortly thereafter. In May 2022, she joined Hometown Wealth Management as Operations associate. From financial planning and investment services to insurance, she assists both individuals and businesses in developing, implementing, and monitoring strategies that help them pursue their financial goals. Chapman holds an MBA with a concentration in financial management from Husson University. In addition, she earned a certificate in small business management from Husson University.

•••••

Jay Queenin

Jay Queenin

Jay Queenin has been appointed to the Westfield State University board of trustees. Queenin replaces trustee Madeline Landrau whose 10-year term ended March 1. Queenin has worked in the Office of the Massachusetts Attorney General as director of Intergovernmental Affairs, assistant attorney general, and chief of Administration and Finance. He also has served as assistant district attorney in the Middlesex District Attorney’s Office. For nearly 20 years, Queenin has been president and owner of Specialty Bolt & Screw (SBS) in Agawam, a privately held company founded in 1977. SBS provides inventory-management solutions to global original-equipment manufacturers and has approximately 300 employees in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Finland, Taiwan, and Vietnam. Queenin earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Providence College and a juris doctorate from Suffolk University Law School.

•••••

Berkshire Money Management (BMM), a financial and retirement planning firm with offices in Dalton and Great Barrington, announced that Michael O’Brien has joined the team as a financial paraplanner. Most recently, O’Brien worked in the insurance industry. He has a strong background in client service and financial planning, with experience helping high-net-worth individuals protect their assets and their futures. He is a licensed property and casualty insurance agent and is currently studying for the Series 65 exam so he can advance into a junior advising role. At BMM, he is focused on supporting the director of Financial Planning and learning how to deliver personalized service to the firm’s clients. O’Brien is a former Mr. Taconic and 2024 graduate of the Berkshire Leadership Program and holds a bachelor’s degree in communications with a minor in Spanish from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts.

•••••

Jenni Lanoue

Jenni Lanoue

Shonda Pettiford

Shonda Pettiford

Greenfield Community College (GCC) announced the appointment of two distinguished leaders, Jenni Lanoue and Shonda Pettiford, to its board of trustees. Their extensive backgrounds in healthcare, education and organizational leadership are expected to bolster the college’s commitment to serving its diverse student population and enhancing community engagement. Lanoue is a long-time resident of Franklin County and a GCC alumna, having graduated with an associate degree in Nursing in 2003. With nearly two decades of experience at Baystate Franklin Medical Center, she currently serves as chief Nursing officer and director of Patient Care Services, overseeing multiple nursing units and leading initiatives that enhance patient care and safety. Pettiford brings a wealth of experience in operations and communications. Currently serving as director of Operations at Five Colleges Inc., she has a strong background in strategic planning, human-resource management, and collaborative initiatives across multiple higher-education institutions. Her previous roles include CEO of Gravity Switch and director of Communications at UMass Amherst. She has served the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts as board president.

•••••

Holyoke Chicopee Springfield (HCS) Head Start recently elected its 2024-25 Policy Council, composed of parents of currently enrolled children and members-at-large from the communities served by HCS Head Start, which may include parents of children who were formally enrolled. This group of leaders includes Amber Cichowski, Massachusetts Head Start Assoc. (community representative); Chalen Vasquez, Parkside Early Learning Center, Ludlow; Cinnamon Smith, Westover Job Corps (community representative); Dakota Bailes, Westover Head Start Center, Chicopee; Fanny Perez, Mason Square Head Start and Early Head Start Center, Springfield; Gladys Rivera, Carew Street Head Start Center, Springfield; Jeimy Diaz, Churchill Head Start Center, Holyoke; Katherine Gasque, Madison Head Start and Early Head Start Center, Springfield; Milagros Arocho Pumarejo, Robinson Gardens Head Start Center, Springfield; and Sulema Chaj, Mason Square Head Start and Early Head Start Center, Springfield.

 

Incorporations

By
Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

Cottontail’s Lounge Corp., 359-363 Walnut St. Ext., Agawam, MA 01001. Asia Marie Martenson, 589 South Branch Parkway, Springfield, MA 01118. Restaurant/lounge.

AMHERST

Aroma-Therapy Inc., 190 University Dr., Amherst, MA 01002. Geneva Ledbettermaguire, 85 Cowls Road, Apt. B116, Amherst, MA 01002. Provides massage and bodywork services and sells retail wellness products to the public.

CHICOPEE

Istanbul Kebab Corp., 19 Alvord Ave., Apt 2l, Chicopee, MA 01020. Ziya Bicak, same. Food truck.

EAST OTIS

Ariquin Inc., 129 West Shore Road, East Otis, MA 01029. Ariel Quinlan, same. Sales of small food items to the public.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Rural Recovery Resources Inc., 67 Main St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Rachelle Gayle, same. Nonprofit organization whose purpose it is to engage, assist, refer, educate, and empower members of the community who are affected in any way by substance use to improve their health and wellness in order to achieve a purposeful, self-directed life and to educate the public about issues related to substance abuse.

HOLYOKE

Holyoke Historical Society Inc., 328 High St., Apt 2F, Holyoke, MA 01040. Joseph Mazzola, same. Nonprofit organization formed to collect, preserve, and promote the history of Holyoke through programing and fundraising.

So Behold This Inc., 44 Taylor St., Holyoke, MA 01040. John Sevigne, same. Photography.

MONSON

Oyku Inc., 52 Main St., Monson, MA 01057. Sezgin Turan, 188 Pineview Circle, Agawam, MA 01001. Restaurant.

PALMER

Buddy’s Auto Inc., 1150 Park St., Palmer, MA 01069. Stephen Tripp, same. Auto-repair service.

PITTSFIELD

America Digital Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Christopher McAlary, same. Vending-machine operator.

Berkshire Family Cleaning Corp., 158 Windsor Ave., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Edson Neto, same. Building maintenance and general janitorial services, wholesale buying and selling of janitorial products, and otherwise dealing in supplies necessary or useful in such services.

Gladis House Cleaning Services Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Gladis Romero Quiroz, same. Residential cleaning services.

Pinotti and Associates Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Salvatore Crivello, same. Tax services.

The Wursta Corp., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Matthew Wursta, same. Software resale and professional services.

SPRINGFIELD

2nd Chances Movement Inc., 92 Kenyon St., Apt. B, Springfield, MA 01109. David Robinson, same. Nonprofit organization formed to host spiritual support groups and mentorships for life skills, cooking, nutrition, budgeting, and job readiness.

AH Languages Inc., 299 Carew St., Suite 134, Springfield, MA 01104. Abdillahi Hussein, same. Translation and interpretation services.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

7 Star Westfield Convenience Inc., 572 Westfield St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Muhammad Ali Saleem, 188 Clearwater Circle, Ludlow, MA 01056. Gas station.

Munch More Inc., 1715 Riverdale St., #1715R, West Springfield, MA 01089. Mohamed Moresy, same. Mobile trailer food vendor.

WILLIAMSTOWN

Purple Valley Aquatics Club Inc., 1203 Main St., Williamstown, MA 01267. Steve Kuster, 561 Water St., Williamstown, MA 01267. Nonprofit member club of USA Swimming that operates out of the pool facility at Williams College.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

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

BELCHERTOWN

Belchertown Psychological Services
35 Turkey Hill Road, Suite 105B
Mark Caron

Carz
442 State St.
Andrew Reid

Clear Sky Cannabis
20 George Hannum Road, Suite B
Anthony Parrinello

Comeau Photography
40 Ware Road, #5
Edward Comeau

Creative Construction and Design LLC
155 River St.
Donna Deroin

Digitegrade
7 Chestnut Dr.
Nicole Miller

Flagpole Sitta
200 Sabin St.
Derek Dunigan, James Tiraboschi

Gypsy River Antiques
148 Shea Ave.
Jill Taylor

Kokosa Racing
393 North Washington St.
Christopher Kokosa

The Lavender Woods
157 Federal St.
Olga Kyle

Lord Jeffery Apartments I
121 North Main St.
Hergert Berezin

Lord Jeffery Apartments II
121 North Main St.
Hergert Berezin

Lord Jeffery Apartments III
121 North Main St.
Hergert Berezin

Reece Auto Body
14 Springfield Road
Robert Reece

Sunderland Sounds
627 North Washington St.
Travis Lamothe

Ye Old Grog Shoppe
32 Depot St.
Shashi Patel

EASTHAMPTON

Amazing Property Care
88 Northampton St.
Victoria Mansfield

Blossom Ink Studio
123 Union St., Unit 101
Stien Kusuma

Canon Real Estate Inc.
199 Northampton St.
Robert Canon

Easthampton Public Library
9 Park St.
Katya Schapiro

Exclusive Tint Auto Detailing
69 Ferry St., Unit 4
Angel Luna

Hemline Corp.
211 East St., #24
Diamond Smith

Hero Barber
186 Northampton St., Suite B
Christopher Wolf, Norman White

KL’s Cleaning Services
65 Bryan Ave.
Karen Levernoch

Lindsey Rothschild Real Estate
159 Park St.
Lindsey Rothschild

MakeFixHack Inc.
116 Pleasant St., Suite 044
David Terkanian

New City Golf
40 Maine Ave.
Greg Larson

Pipe Pirate
55 South St.
Brandon Furches

Pok Services
6 Hampton Terrace
Veasna Pok

Scott Higgins General Contractor
211 East St., #6
Scott Higgins

Serenity Spa
87 Main St.
Yaoming Lin

Taylor Real Estate
4A Liberty St.
Charles Conner

Tiny & Tidy House Cleaning
16 Briggs St., Apt. 1
Kelsey Talbot

Victoria Mansfield Tarot
88 Northampton St.
Victoria Mansfield

Vortex Web Innovate
53 Union St.
Saqib Tasneem

WESTFIELD

Eclectic Wellness
5 Noble Ave.
Alison Preloznik

Holiday Preservation Society
44 Sabrina Brooke Lane
Diane Rumbolt

Imagination Preservation Society
44 Sabrina Brooke Lane
Diane Rumbolt

Lisa Viv Designs
287 Munger Hill Road
Lisa Viveiros

MCV Inc.
247 Elm St.
Michael Ventrice

Remax Compass
108 Elm St.
Compass Home Inc.

The Soap Counter
238 Springdale Road
Sarah Plumador

Trash Fish Junk Removal LLC
33 Sunrise Terrace
Trash Fish Junk Removal LLC

United American Muslim Assoc. of Western Mass
66 South Broad St.
Rizaan Abubakar

Vitaliy Buryak
50 George St.
Vitaliy Buryak

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

156 High Holyoke MA LLC
183 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 11
Date: 11/18/2024

445 High Holyoke MA LLC
183 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 11
Date: 11/18/2024

Alicea, Nelson
64 Connecticut Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/25/2024

Bielanski, Dawn J.
93 Druid Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/22/2024

Burgos, Joselyn
a/k/a Lopez, Joselyn
101 Athol St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/25/2024

Claine, John H.
Claine, Kimberly L.
409 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/25/2024

Cranor, Richawn Andrea
Stillson-Cranor, Richawn
52 Allen St., #2
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/21/2024

Cruz-Resto, Sandra
162 Packard Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/21/2024

Depin, Madeline M.
Depin, Raymond A.
3 Nokomis Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/21/2024

Dinardi, Christopher M.
Dinardi, Sadie L.
1240 Main St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/22/2024

Duffy, Susan J.
43 Witheridge St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/29/2024

Duris, Ronald J.
54 Crown St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/26/2024

Estrella, Erica
129 Edgewood Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/25/2024

Finklea, Eddie J.
66 Dewitt St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/25/2024

Gallagher, Sharon L.
6 Leonard St., #1
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/25/2024

Holesovsky, Thomas John
Holesovsky, Gretchen Muriel
P.O. Box 1130
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/18/2024

Marsh, Pamela B.
19 William St.
Chester, MA 01011
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/25/2024

Mason, Michael J.
204 Lake Dr.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/20/2024

Michalik, Stephen F.
Padykula-Michalik, Lisa M.
87 Willwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/21/2024

Milbier, Shelley A.
93 Grochmal Ave., Lot 165
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/25/2024

Piela, Donna M.
39 Puffin Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/26/2024
Pike, Cory J.
Pike, Jennifer A.
a/k/a Depelteau, Jennifer
45 Vassar Road
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/26/2024

Quinones, Evelyn Linette
92 Greenleaf Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/18/2024

Ramirez, Juan Jose
P.O. Box 1865
Westfield, MA 01086
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/18/2024

Reynolds, Diane Leslie
121 Waldo St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/19/2024

Roldan, Brant D.
1968 E. Mountain Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/22/2024

Rossi, Nancy S.
80 Bungalow St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/19/2024

Sadak HVAC, LLC
Sadak, Michael R.
125 Sibley Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/26/2024

Smith, David A.
Smith, Michelle
100 Grimard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/20/2024

Torres, Margarita
84 Shamrock St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/29/2024

Vargas, Jose Alfredo Perez
Vargas, Julia Vanessa
6 Lance Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/26/2024

Vega, Marleen
80 Ramblewood Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/26/2024

Vogel, Kevin
Vogel, Jessica
350 West St., Lot 33
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/18/2024

Wallflowers LLC
Johnson, Heidi
38 State Road
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/22/2024

Wright, Kyle D.
8B Lincoln St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/22/2024

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

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

CHICOPEE

Sunshine Village
75 Litwin Lane
$15,500 — Demolish accessory structure

Main Street Property
340 McKinstry Ave.
$6,304.26 — Add coverage under new garage overhead door, modify coverage due to new office rooms buildout within Suite 700

EASTHAMPTON

Overlook Industries
195 Northampton St.
$2,224,000 — Interior office build-out, exterior improvements

Wemelco Development LLC
19 Wemelco Way
$166,675 — Extend existing wet sprinkler system

HADLEY

Mill Valley Commons LLC
1 Mill Valley Road
N/A — Remove non-load-bearing interior walls

W/S Hadley properties II LLC
355 Russell St., Suite 20
N/A — Install fire-suppression system in kitchen exhaust hood

Thomas Zuzgo, Patricia Zuzgo
351 River Dr.
N/A — Install two stainless liners

LENOX

Boston University
45 West St.
$34,800 — Roofing

Lenox Club
111 Yokun Ave.
$22,341 — Attic insulation

WS Management Inc.
489 Pittsfield Road
$725,000 — Interior fit-up to create medical office space for urgent-care center, including new non-load-bearing partitions for exam rooms; staff-support work areas and toilet rooms; millwork, doors, suspended ceilings, and finishes; modifications to existing sprinkler system; new plumbing, HVAC, and electrical/data

PITTSFIELD

BDC Inc.
103 Elm St.
$80,000 — Concrete removal and replacement

Berkshire Medical Center
725 North St.
$33,000 — Replace pair of existing doors, repair floor tile and damaged CMU

Berkshire Museum
39 South St.
$5,282,902 — Reconfigure first-floor auditorium to become aquarium exhibit space, insulate exterior walls on first floor, install new wall and floor finishes in all first-floor spaces, demolish existing aquarium in basement and new framing to create new storage spaces, new sound-absorbing finishes in Crane Room on second floor

Hillcrest Extended Care Services Inc.
171 Valentine Road
$51,500 — Replacement concrete pad, retaining wall, and fence

HJG Realty LLC
242 North St.
$36,434 — Insulate basement

Phoenix Merrill Road LLC
676 Merrill Road
$2,560 — Install Starlink cellular communicator to existing fire-alarm system at Dollar Tree

Stasko Holdings LLC
161 Seymour St.
$25,800 — Roofing

Threshold 21E LLC
144 North St.
$50,000 — Reconfigure conference room and create one office with partition walls in 3B building, install partition for reception area

NORTHAMPTON

King Barrett LLC
301 King St.
$175,000 — Renovation for new restaurant

Norma Lee Realty Trust
90 King St.
$25,000 — Replace front window with storefront glass

Scher Mass LLC
10 Michelman Ave.
$105,000 — Structural framing, install exterior doors and window

Smith College
186 Elm St.
$100,000 — Insulation for Gardiner House

Smith College
16 Paradise Road
$14,000 — Roofing

Smith College
38 Paradise Road
$12,000 — Roofing

Smith College
58 Paradise Road
$17,000 — Repair stairs

SPRINGFIELD

51-59 Taylor St LLC
51 Taylor St.
$165,000 — Alter interior space on second and third floors for new office and cubicle use

1441 Main Street LLC
1441 Main St.
$57,310 — Remove escalator, install new steel stairs, and infill floor at TD Bank Center

ARG BCSPRMA001 LLC
800 Boston Road
$117,000 — Alter interior tenant space for T-Mobile

City of Springfield
111 Maple St.
$11,500 — Erect prefabricated shade pavilion in rear yard area of Milton Bradley Elementary School

City of Springfield
1059 South Branch Parkway
$2,537,000 — Alterior interior space at Veterans Golf Course café and clubhouse

Onyx Springfield Crossing LLC
1655 Boston Road
$21,580,193.14 — Erect new Target store

Phaneuf Realty LLC
494 Chestnut St.
$21,800 — Roofing

Picknelly Family LP
1 Monarch Place
$889,950 — Alter portion of seventh floor for new tenant space for UBS Financial Services

Things We’d Like to See in 2025

By
Opinion

Editorial

 

It’s a new year, and in keeping with what has become a tradition, we’ll take this opportunity in early January to list some things we’d like to see over the next 12 months — what should be an intriguing time, to say the least.

• More growth of new sectors. While traditional precision manufacturing, long a staple of the regional economy, has remained a constant, some other sectors, such as healthcare (especially hospitals) and higher education are struggling to some extent. Meanwhile, virtually all sectors, from banking to insurance to retail, are seeing consolidation, which usually translates into fewer jobs and higher vacancy rates with commercial real estate.

In this environment, the region needs growth in what would be considered non-traditional sectors. And there are opportunities in realms such as food science and food tech, clean energy and clean tech, and data centers, including a proposed, $3 billion project in Westfield that would be the largest of its kind in the state. Growth of these sectors and others represents the region’s best opportunity to create new jobs and perhaps replace those that will be lost in other areas.

• More creative use and re-use of commercial real estate. We’ve seen a lot of it in recent years, from former department stores converted into trampoline centers to the YMCA moving into Tower Square in Springfield; from artists moving into several old mills to Discovery Polytech Early College High School relocating to 1350 Main St., another office tower in downtown Springfield.

And we’ll need to see more it as sectors continue to shrink through consolidation and remote work continues to create more vacancies in office buildings. Creative re-use, be it housing, artists, schools, or small-business incubators, creates jobs and vibrancy.

• More people going to the office, and more often. Yes, there is a place for remote work and hybrid schedules — when such accommodations are needed, and maybe a day or two a week for those seeking a regular schedule of working from home. But having people in the office is better for businesses of all kinds, from the standpoints of communication, collaboration, and productivity, and better for communities and their central business districts.

Companies such as Amazon and even President-elect Trump are, or soon will be, ordering people back to work — or else. Business owners don’t need to be so demanding, we believe, but more work in the office and less remote work is good for the region’s economy.

• More entrepreneurship. Or even more, as the case may be. We’ve been encouraged by the efforts of several area agencies — from EforAll to area chambers of commerce to the Latino Economic Development Corp. — to encourage entrepreneurship among all constituencies, but especially women and minorities, and help businesses get off the ground and stay in business.

Such efforts not only enable people to work for themselves instead of someone else, they create jobs, fill some of those commercial real-estate vacancies, and create vibrancy in our gateway cities. Most of these businesses are small, as in very small, and most will not create more than a handful of jobs, but such ventures are an important source of growth for any region.

Build a Future-ready Workforce

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Allison Ebner

 

As organizational leaders and HR professionals, we are going to continue to be challenged in the new year and beyond with a roller coaster of issues as we try to match our workforces to the complex needs of our organizations and the demands of our clients and consumers. It will take an incredible amount of innovation for us to remain competitive not only within our industry landscape, but also in our employee-engagement strategies.

Nearly every industry will be experiencing significant labor-force challenges with pending retirements from the Boomers and Gen-X, and we’re also facing a transformational time in work experience and career expectations from our Millennial and Gen-Z employees. So as an organizational leader today, how should you best prepare for the coming disruptions? Here are three strategies to consider as we turn the corner into 2025:

1. Prioritize investments in continuous learning and development for your staff. Business, technology, and talent trends are moving at the speed of light. By creating a continuous learning model for your staff, you are empowering them to be resilient thinkers who can make better decisions for themselves, your organization, and your customers.

How do you approach this? Conduct an optimization assessment of each role or department in your organization. What competencies would help a team member perform at their peak? Keep it simple with a list of technical skills, power skills (formerly called soft skills), and future skills. Once you identify the list, create a learning pathway that helps you skill-build in each area.

2. Focus on building leaders with high levels of emotional intelligence. This will make or break you. Period. Full stop. It’s hard to describe just how much this matters in our work ecosystems today, but I’ll try to do just that. If you can create people leaders with this competency — even to a high degree, not perfection — you will slay your competition and crush your employee-retention goals.

We no longer have a workforce that will tolerate moderately decent managers. They have to be better. They need to instill a sense of urgency to get the job done right, combined with empathy, accountability, and the ability to teach resilience practices. This is key because our world is going to continuously evolve and change. We need to build teams that can inspire and motivate our future workforce through change and chaos and turn these uncertainties into opportunities.

3. Strengthen the bonds between technology and your people. The fifth industrial revolution has arrived, and it’s the evolution of people and machines working together to build our organizations and move us forward. Whatever industry you’re in, you can use technology to propel innovation and create a workplace the optimizes technology while enhancing the human experience.

It’s also all about your customer experience. If we want to win the battle for market share, grant funding, venture capital … whatever it is that makes you tick, you’ll need to have a strategy that includes providing your talent with the best tech tools to give you an advantage.

By embracing a mindset of continuous learning, combined with leveling up your people leaders and blending technology in your current work practices, leading organizations can pivot from a traditional model aimed at scalable efficiency that grew out of our industrial past to one that is far more suited to a world in which speed, agility, and innovation rule the day, and in which people expect more meaning, choice, growth, and autonomy at work.

 

Allison Ebner is president of the Employers Assoc. of New England. This article first appeared on the EANE blog; eane.org