Home 2025 April (Page 5)

Month: April 2025

Comcast Awards $20,000 to Urban League of Springfield to Expand

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Comcast announced a $20,000 grant to support the Urban League of Springfield’s Digital Learning Lab, a community resource that is helping to bridge the digital divide in Western Mass. by providing 150 participants each year with essential technology and internet skills training, specialty workshops, and more.

The $20,000 grant will help fund a variety of enrichment training programs at the Urban League’s Digital Learning Lab. Programs include the Foster Grandparent Program, which helps seniors gain confidence in using online tools to mentor youth, and the Project Ready Program, which teaches students coding, advanced digital security, and pathways to careers in computer science.

“Many essential services — healthcare, job applications, and social-services programs — are now online, making digital literacy a critical skill,” state Rep. Bud Williams said. “I applaud Comcast for supporting the Urban League of Springfield’s Digital Learning Lab that ensures residents across Western Massachusetts have access to resources and training to develop the technology skills needed to succeed in today’s digital-first world.”

Added Yvette Frisby, president and CEO of the Urban League of Springfield, “for more than 15 years, Comcast has been a dedicated partner in our mission, and we’re grateful for their continued support. While residents have access to affordable high-speed broadband throughout Western Massachusetts, many of our members still lack the digital skills needed to take full advantage of it. This grant ensures more people — regardless of age or background — receive the training and support they need to thrive.”

This grant from Comcast is part of Project UP, Comcast’s commitment to provide digital opportunities through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the internet, advance economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators.

“Comcast is proud to support the Urban League of Springfield as they empower local residents with critical digital skills,” said Carolyne Hannan, senior vice president of Comcast’s New England Region. “We understand the importance of internet connectivity, but access alone isn’t enough — people need the skills to confidently and safely use online resources to improve their lives. Through partnerships like this, we’re helping to close the digital divide and create more opportunities for individuals and families across Western Massachusetts.”

HCC Enrolling Students for Free Clean-energy Jobs Training Program

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) is now enrolling students for a free, four-week program to train workers for jobs in the clean-energy sector.

The Green Construction, Electricity and Clean Energy Systems program runs from July 7 through Aug. 1, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Classes meet at both Dean Technical High School and Holyoke Community College.

During 80 hours of hands-on training, students will earn their OSHA 10 safety credentials while learning the basics of green construction, hand- and power-tool use, and electrical concepts and circuitry, and learning how these skills are applied in solar photovoltaic installation and electrical vehicle charging stations.

Students who complete the program will be eligible for work in construction and can apply for a paid electrician apprenticeship program or enroll in further training as a clean-energy technician.

The program also covers energy- efficient materials and design, measurements and diagrams, basic framing, wall installation and maintenance, foundation construction and pouring, workplace safety, and job readiness.

It is funded through a two-year, $832,000 state grant HCC received in 2024 for climate-related workforce-training initiatives. HCC’s partners in the grant include the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, Springfield Works, Dean Technical High School, and the Coalition for an Equitable Economy.

To be eligible, students must be at least 18 years old, be authorized to work in the U.S., have a high-school diploma or equivalency, be able to start work after the training, and pass a background check.

For more information or to enroll, visit hcc.edu/cleanenergy or contact career counselor Mike Blasco at [email protected] or (413) 552-2801.

Holyoke Mall to Host In-person Community Job Fair on April 9

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Job seekers across Western Mass. are headed to Holyoke Mall to advance their careers during the Get Hired Job Fair on Wednesday, April 9 from 1 to 4 p.m. on the lower level in Macy’s Court.

This free community job fair, sponsored by Springfield Public Schools, features employers across more than 10 industries, seeking candidates at all skill levels to fill both full-time and part-time positions. Candidates will connect with employers one-on-one for on-the-spot interviews and hiring.

A diverse range of Western Mass. businesses are participating in this spring’s job fair. Participating employers include Baystate Health, Berkshire County Arc, the Center School/Positive Regard Network, Cooley Dickinson, the Daily Hampshire Gazette, Elms College, Florence Bank, Gándara Center, Gary Rome Hyundai, Golden Years USA, Hampden Charter School of Science, Holyoke Community College, Holyoke Public Schools, Holyoke Veterans Home, Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, MassHire Holyoke, PeoplesBank, Springfield Public Schools, UMass Police Department, Valley Opportunity Council, Valley Spring Behavioral Health, Veritas Prep Charter School, Viability, Westfield Bank, and more.

Interested employers should contact James Geraghty, Advertising manager, at (617) 840-2998 or [email protected].

MCLA to Host Panel Discussion on U.S. Immigration in Trump’s Second Term

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) invites the public to a panel discussion, “Immigration in the United States During Trump 2.0,” on Thursday, April 10 at 5 p.m. in Murdock Hall, Room No. 218. This event is free and open to all.

MCLA Associate Professor of Political Science Dave Cupery will moderate the discussion. Panelists include Williams College Professor of Political Science James Mahon, MCLA Associate Professor of Anthropology Anna Jaysane-Darr, and MCLA Professor of History Ely Janis.

Presented as part of the Boschen Conflict Prevention and Resolution Speaker Series, this panel will explore immigration policies and practices during the second term of President Trump. Panelists will analyze key policy changes, their historical roots, their connection to contemporary U.S. politics, and their impact on immigrants and refugees in the U.S. and beyond.

“The panel provides an important opportunity to deepen our understanding of immigration politics and policies and to examine their broader implications,” Cupery said. “We hope to foster a constructive and informed conversation.”

Following the presentations, attendees will have an opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with the panelists.

Pioneer Valley Conference for Women Set for May 1

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The fourth annual Pioneer Valley Conference for Women will be held in person on Thursday, May 1 from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel. Sponsors include Liberty Bank, Westfield Savings Bank, M&T Bank, and YMCA of Western Massachusetts.

Xiomara Albán DeLobato will serve as emcee for the conference. She is a dynamic and accomplished professional with more than 15 years of experience in both the public and private sectors. As vice president and chief of staff for the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, she works to facilitate growth and development of the region’s economy. She is also an active member of numerous boards, including Girls Inc. of the Valley, Veritas Prep Charter School in Springfield, and others.

Keynote speakers are Krystal Say, co-founder of the Hyouman Experience and owner of SWEAT Power Yoga, and Dr. Jacqueline Johnson, who serves as chief Facilities Expansion and Sustainability officer at Caring Health Center and is also a faculty member at Bay Path University, teaching both undergraduate and graduate courses.

Say is a forward-thinking leader, international educator, and wellness entrepreneur committed to guiding others in discovering their purpose, igniting their passion, and building a fulfilling life. She creates environments where movement, mindfulness, and self-exploration converge. She believes that true transformation starts by tuning into the quiet voice within — aligning actions with one’s core values to cultivate a life of purpose and meaningful impact. Her passion has also led her to develop and expand TRX Yoga, traveling globally to train leaders and share the power of movement and mindset.

Johnson is actively involved in numerous boards, contributing her leadership and expertise to a variety of initiatives. Prior to her work in healthcare, she previously worked with youth development, justice-based advocacy, and the prison industrial complex. Her ability to understand and address injustice is informed by past experiences.

In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from 30 local experts on 10 panels throughout the morning and afternoon. Click here to see the different panel topics available, and for more information about the conference.

Freedom Credit Union Supports Efforts to Secure Housing for People in Need

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — During April, Freedom Credit Union is inviting the community to donate money at any of its branches throughout Western Mass. to benefit Way Finders, a Springfield-based agency that helps people facing challenges to secure housing.

“Safe and secure housing is a basic essential,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said. “Financial instability combined with a shortage of affordable housing in our region has forced many people into dire circumstances. We hope they know they’re not alone.”

Way Finders provides critical services such as emergency financial housing assistance, support for renters, and help for those facing foreclosure. The agency also helps people secure employment, economic mobility, and home ownership.

Donations help fund these efforts: building and managing affordable housing in urban, rural, and suburban settings; helping more than 5,000 families access emergency assistance and housing subsidies every year; helping people become first-time homebuyers; providing emergency shelter to families experiencing homelessness; supporting young parents and survivors of domestic abuse; and fostering housing stability through financial education and employment.

Every month, Freedom Credit Union collects donations for a different charity as part of its Month of Giving campaigns. This year, Freedom asked its members to nominate charities for support. Money collected through the end of April will support Way Finders’ mission to empower individuals and families through stable housing, with hope for a brighter future.

“We’re so thankful to those who generously contribute to our collections,” Welch said. “Investing in community is what Freedom Credit Union is all about.”

Elms College to Host Annual Experiential Learning Showcase on May 2

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — Elms College students will showcase their real-world experiences gained through internships, research, service work, and travel opportunities at the annual Experiential Learning Showcase on Friday, May 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This program is open to all, with no need to register.

“Experiential learning helps students to understand what they need to be successful upon graduation. Students gain real-world experience and learn what they may want to do with their college education,” said Jennifer Granger Sullivan, director of Experiential Learning (EL). “Many students will be hired full-time with the internship site and/or use it as a launchpad toward their career. We work with all students to participate in EL during their time at Elms and then also work to guide students on showcasing their experiences.”

At Elms College, 95% of students participate in internships, research, and service opportunities through the Dolores Donlin Noonan ’39 Experiential Learning Program. Students have explored opportunities with many local organizations, including Way Finders, Polish Discovery Center, Holyoke Soldiers Home, Springfield Thunderbirds, Hampden County’s Sheriff’s Office, Care Center, and the office of state Rep. Shirley Arriaga.

Andrea Reilly, a senior majoring in social work, said her internship with the Case Management department at Holyoke Medical Center added to what she learned in the classroom. “My role involves assisting patients in finding short-term rehab, learning to walk again after a broken bone, locating inpatient drug rehab, and arranging home visits for wound care and medication assistance. I would never have been able to use what I have learned [in classes] and turn it into actual practice in the real world without this program.”

Elms College created the Dolores Donlin Noonan ’39 Experiential Learning Program to provide students with practical, real-world experiences that enhance their academic studies and career readiness. Through internships, research, and community-based learning, students gain valuable skills, build professional networks, and develop a deeper understanding of their fields.

bankESB to Host Two Free Shred Days in May

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free Shred Days at local offices. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at the following locations. No appointment is necessary.

• Saturday, May 17: Agawam office, 770 Main St. (This event is in partnership with the Parish Cupboard, which will be collecting food donations.)

• Saturday, May 31: Easthampton office, 241 Northampton St. (Two trucks will be at this event.)

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 shredding them 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.

O’Connell Development Group Announces Sarah Stine as New President

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Daily News

Sarah Stine

HOLYOKE — O’Connell Development Group (ODG) announced the appointment of Sarah Stine as president. She takes over the role from Jim Sullivan, who held the position for more than a decade and will continue to serve as president of the O’Connell Companies.

Stine has been with the O’Connell Companies since 2012, starting her career at Daniel O’Connell’s Sons as a project manager. In 2022, she transitioned to ODG, where she served as Development manager and later as vice president of Real Estate Development. Throughout her tenure at ODG, she has played an integral role in facilitating zoning changes, securing municipal development approvals, and leading substantial upgrades to properties within the ODG portfolio. She has managed the design, coordination, and construction of multiple active development projects.

As president, Stine will be responsible for overseeing the strategic direction of ODG and its subsidiaries. She will continue to lead efforts in sourcing new acquisition and development opportunities, while also remaining deeply involved in the management of ODG’s extensive real-estate development portfolio and the execution of current and future development projects.

“Sarah’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for ODG,” the company stated. “With new real-estate development projects on the horizon and upcoming changes to existing properties, we are confident in O’Connell Development Group’s continued growth and success.”

Precision Concepts International Acquires Meredith-Springfield Associates

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Daily News

LUDLOW — Meredith-Springfield Associates Inc. announced it has been acquired by Precision Concepts International LLC, a diversified provider of rigid packaging solutions based in Huntersville, N.C.

Precision Concepts is a leading plastic manufacturer and packaging solutions provider with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Meredith specializes in the design and blow molding of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottles and containers.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with one of the Northeast’s premier providers of HDPE and PET containers,” said Ray Grupinski, CEO of Precision Concepts. “This acquisition extends our footprint in the Northeast and continues our strategy of partnering with world-class, founder-led businesses.”

Meredith will continue to be led by its existing leadership team. Existing and prospective Meredith customers will also have the opportunity to leverage Precision Concepts’ other manufacturing facilities across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America to meet their constantly evolving needs.

Nominations Open for Second Annual Age of Excellence Awards

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Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Do you know someone who is redefining what it means to be over 60? Building on the success of the inaugural awards in 2024, Glenmeadow announced the opening of nominations for the Age of Excellence Awards: Celebrating Success over 60. This event honors older adults in the local community who embody the vigor, purpose, and contributions that come with age and experience.

“The Age of Excellence Awards celebrate the many ways those over 60 are redefining aging,” Glenmeadow President and CEO Kathy Martin said. “Each of us knows someone — whether through our circle of friends, colleagues, or family members — who continues to thrive and achieve later in life. It is a privilege for Glenmeadow to lead this effort in honoring the accomplishments and inspiring stories of our community members over 60.”

Nominations are now open for individuals who have made a significant impact in their communities after age 60. Whether pursuing new professional endeavors, serving their communities, or showing extraordinary perseverance and excellence in other areas of life, these individuals deserve to be celebrated.

Nominations may be submitted online at glenmeadow.org through June 15. Hard copies of the nomination form are available at the concierge desk at Glenmeadow, or a PDF may be downloaded from the event page and sent to Age of Excellence Awards, 24 Tabor Crossing, Longmeadow, MA 01106.

A panel of community leaders will select the honorees, who will be recognized at the Age of Excellence Awards ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Springfield Country Club. This inspiring event will bring together honorees, their families, friends, and supporters to recognize their achievements. Tickets are available for purchase at weblink.donorperfect.com/ageofexcellence.

For more information on the Age of Excellence Awards, including sponsorship opportunities, ticket purchases, and submitting nominations, visit glenmeadow.org or email Rania Kfuri at [email protected].

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Supports Stone Soup Café with Food, Hygiene Drive

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Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank announced a community-wide food and hygiene drive to benefit Stone Soup Café, a resource serving more than 100 households in Greenfield each week. The drive aims to replenish the café’s shelves with essential groceries and personal-care items.

Stone Soup Café plays a crucial role in providing access to necessary resources for local families. To support their ongoing efforts, Greenfield Cooperative Bank is calling on the community to donate unopened pantry items and personal-care products throughout the month of April.

“Stone Soup Café is a cornerstone of our community, offering critical support to those facing food insecurity and hygiene challenges,” said Jackie Charron, senior vice president of Strategy & Implementation at Greenfield Cooperative Bank. “We are proud to partner with them and invite our neighbors to join us in making a tangible difference.”

Donations of the following items are appreciated: unopened pantry items, personal-care items, toothpaste, soap, deodorant, and socks. Donations can be dropped off through April 30 at the Greenfield Cooperative Bank branches at 63 Federal St. and 277 Federal St.