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Month: August 2025

Greylock Names William Fontes Vice President, Manager of Business Banking

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Daily News

William Fontes

PITTSFIELD — Following an extensive national search, Greylock Federal Credit Union announced the hiring of William Fontes as vice president and manager of Business Banking. Fontes brings comprehensive experience in strategic leadership and vision in commercial banking.

“Bill’s extensive commercial lending experience and approach to understanding and meeting the needs of businesses made him the perfect choice for the job. His depth of expertise and leadership will be a tremendous asset to the communities we serve,” said Jodi Rathbun-Briggs, senior vice president, chief lending officer.

As a key member of the Commercial Lending department, Fontes will lead Greylock’s business banking team while building relationships and strengthening services for credit union members through commercial lending and business banking products.

“The entirety of my 30 years in commercial banking has been invested in Western Massachusetts’ community banks, supporting the needs of local business of all sizes and types,” Fontes said. “I enjoy providing customized financing for a variety of commercial banking needs, and my customers appreciate my ability to understand their needs and challenges, as well as my ability to deliver productive financial solutions.”

Fontes will also provide critical leadership through strategic oversight and expansion of Greylock’s annual business development plan and goals for local markets.

“Bill joins us after a remarkable 12-year tenure at Easthampton Savings Bank (bankESB), where he held the position of senior vice president. During his time at bankESB, Bill managed to create a relationship-driven and diverse portfolio,” Rathbun-Briggs said. “Bill has successfully led a large team of lenders and has extensive experience in commercial lending. His approach to meeting the members’ needs and his passion for coaching those around him to be their best selves were compelling reasons we knew Bill was the right fit for the job.”

Fontes holds an MBA in finance and entrepreneurship from Bryant University in Smithfield, R.I. His community interests include economic development, affordable housing, youth sports, and outdoor activities.

“I am excited to integrate my experience with Greylock’s mission,” he said. “Small businesses require customized commercial solutions to maintain optimal efficiency and reach strategic goals. We have the community commitment, resources, and team to deliver a high-quality experience for our members.”

DC Station to Open on Fulton Avenue in Northampton on Oct. 4

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Developer Bruce Volz will open a modern fueling station, called DC Station, at 5 Fulton Ave. in Northampton on Oct. 4, providing 10 fast, level-3 charging ports for electric vehicles (EVs) and a place for drivers to grab a cup of coffee or meal while they wait.

The station — named DC for direct current — will also offer a learning hub, EV Base Camp, for those interested in EVs. The grounds will be landscaped with native plants to support local ecosystems and biodiversity. An array of solar panels will cover the charging stations to help defray the cost of the electricity.

“I’m a person who is concerned about the environment and wanted to do something that could have a direct impact,” Volz said, explaining that he hopes to prove there is a need for a well-designed, efficient-to-operate, modern electric fueling station that serves good coffee and food.

Volz seeks tenants for DC Station to join in this enterprise — in particular, a coffee house or café to serve customers from early morning to afternoon, and a casual restaurant, such as a pizza or taco house, that would be open until later in the evening.

Volz began his professional life as a designer and builder of high-end custom wood furniture. In 1991, he and a colleague, Tony Clarke, launched Volz, Clarke & Associates in One Cottage Street in Easthampton. The firm soon shortened its name to VCA and developed a national reputation with their custom furniture and architectural millwork. The business sold to Metrica in 2023, with all 48 employees retained.

As a side project, Volz also developed an award-winning, four-unit residential condominium project, designed by Jones Whitsett Architects, on Grove Street in Northampton in 2016. All units sold as soon as they were available.

The lot housing DC Station was previously the site for a gas station and used car lot, Pleasant Journey. The Planning Board unanimously approved Volz’s project in June 2024.

“Kuhn Riddle Architects and Berkshire Design Group developed a plan to turn a barren parking lot into a vibrant addition to the Northampton gateway district,” Volz said. “This project incorporates many of the city’s sustainability goals. Keiter was hired as the general contractor in 2024 and has since been diligently at work developing the site and constructing a 4,800-square-foot, energy-efficient building.”

The modern DC Station faces Fulton Street, with access to charging and parking on Conz and Pleasant streets; the level-3 chargers supplied by Lynkwell will soon be installed and are expected to be operational on Oct. 4.

“Level 3 are fast chargers that put out more electricity and cut charge time to 30 to 60 minutes,” Volz explained. “It’s really a game changer for people traveling long distances or for those who don’t have access to a home charger.”

Country Bank Announces Recipient of PFS Community Champion Award

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank announced that Sarah Yurkunas, Assistant vice president, commercial lender, has been named the inaugural recipient of the PFS Community Champion Award. This newly established award honors an individual who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to volunteerism, both through Country Bank-sponsored initiatives and through personal dedication to causes that hold deep meaning for them.

Yurkunas was nominated by a colleague for her extraordinary volunteer service and recognized for her compassion and commitment to Second Chance Animal Services. Since 2018, she has devoted more than 347 hours of personal volunteer time at the shelter, arriving every Sunday morning, even in the rain, snow, or on holidays, to clean kennels and feed, brush, and comfort animals in need. In addition, she has contributed more than 70 hours volunteering at Country Bank-sponsored community events since 2023.

As part of this recognition, and in honor of Country Bank’s former president and CEO, Paul Scully, who retired in 2024, Yurkunas was able to direct a $2,000 donation to a charity of her choice. She selected Second Chance Animal Services, extending her impact even further.

“Sarah truly embodies the spirit of what this award represents,” said Jodie Gerulaitis, first vice president of Community Relations at Country Bank. “Her tireless dedication to animals, as well as her willingness to step up at Country Bank events, showcases her selflessness, compassion, and commitment to making a difference. We are thrilled to celebrate her as our first Community Champion and look forward to recognizing many more employees in the years ahead.”

Yurkunas’s induction into the PFS Community Champions Hall of Fame marks the beginning of a new tradition at Country Bank. Each year, colleagues will be invited to nominate individuals who embody the bank’s core values of integrity, service, teamwork, excellence, and prosperity.

“I am deeply grateful to receive this award and immensely thankful to Country Bank and my colleagues for this recognition,” Yurkunas said. “I am truly honored to work for an organization with an unwavering commitment to community not only financially, but also in empowering team members to support local nonprofits through active volunteering. It is my greatest pleasure through this award to be able to donate to Second Chance Animal Services, an organization I have been dedicated to for many years and hold very dear to my heart.”

Time Running Out to Nominate a Woman of Impact

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for the eighth annual Women of Impact awards. Nominations for the Women of Impact class of 2025 are due by Thursday, Sept. 4. They can be submitted at businesswest.com/women-of-impact-nominations.

In 2018, BusinessWest created the Women of Impact program as a way to honor women in the region who are making an impact and creating positive change. There are many different ways to do this. While nominees can hail from the world of business, they can also emerge from other realms, such as the nonprofit community, public service, law enforcement, education, social work, the mentorship community, a combination of these — in short, the program recognizes inspirational women on any level.

For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Study Underscores Importance of Financial Education

By Contributor
Banking and Financial Services

Youthful Interventions

On Aug. 18. EVERFI and the MassMutual Foundation announced findings from the third and final year of a three-year, longitudinal study of financial capability among adolescents. The release of this new data occurs as the MassMutual Foundation’s FutureSmart financial literacy curriculum also celebrates the milestone of reaching 6 million learners.

EVERFI is an international technology company driving social impact through education to address key societal challenges like financial wellness, character education, STEM and careers, mental health, prescription drug safety, workplace conduct, and more.

The study by EVERFI and the MassMutual Foundation, the first of its kind, has tracked financial behaviors and literacy levels of participants throughout the course of the study as they completed up to six different EVERFI financial education courses, including FutureSmart. Since the program’s inception in 2015, FutureSmart has provided free educational resources to students across the 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico, helping them build a foundation for financial literacy and economic empowerment.

Third-year data was collected during the 2023-24 school year, providing further evidence that multiple financial education interventions among young people are key to making sustainable, long-term improvements to financial knowledge, self-efficacy, and desirable behaviors.

Dennis Duquette

Dennis Duquette

“These recent findings further affirm that middle school students are not only able to retain critical financial knowledge, but can show lasting success in the months following their education.”

Key takeaways from this year’s results include:

• Financial self-efficacy. Students who took multiple courses became 21% more confident in their financial skills compared to those who took one or fewer courses. Sustainable and evident growth in these students also existed six months following the program’s completion.

• Desirable financial behaviors. Taking multiple courses prepared students to actively engage in healthy financial behaviors when the opportunity arose. The frequency of these desirable behaviors increased by 10% compared to students who took one or fewer courses during the six-month period following the conclusion of the program.

• Interest in financial learning. Forty-four percent of the students who completed coursework expressed interest in receiving more financial education.

• Student-parent conversations. After participating in multiple courses from the program, students increased the frequency of financial-focused conversations with their parents by 9%. The topics that spurred these conversations included preventing financial fraud and the use of online banking applications.

• Impact on low-income families. Students in this category had a 12% larger improvement in their likelihood to engage in desirable financial behaviors compared to their peers in wealthier families.

“Throughout our strategic partnership with EVERFI, we have seen just how important sustained education is for creating a strong financial knowledge foundation and healthy financial habits for adolescents,” said Dennis Duquette, president of the MassMutual Foundation. “These recent findings further affirm that middle school students are not only able to retain critical financial knowledge, but can show lasting success in the months following their education.”

 

Continued Progress

This year’s findings build on conclusions from years one and two of the longitudinal study. Findings from year one noted that middle school students who participated in the FutureSmart curriculum significantly improved the frequency of desirable financial behaviors, including saving money, tracking monthly expenses, spending within a budget, and investing for long-term financial goals. Year two research findings confirmed that students demonstrated these behaviors after completing two or more courses in year one.

The FutureSmart curriculum significantly improved the frequency of desirable financial behaviors, including saving money, tracking monthly expenses, spending within a budget, and investing for long-term financial goals. Year two research findings confirmed that students demonstrated these behaviors after completing two or more courses in year one.

“As these recent study results confirm, the influence of multiple financial education interventions cannot be understated,” said Ray Martinez, CEO of EVERFI. “Over the past three years, we have seen how these interventions improve not only financial literacy, but willingness amongst adolescents to plan for and talk about their financial futures. Our continued work with the MassMutual Foundation is a powerful demonstration of how to empower students and help them build a foundation for financial success for themselves, their families, and their loved ones.”

The MassMutual Foundation’s stated goal is to invest in programs that help people access resources needed to earn, protect, and help build their financial capability and thrive, and its participation in this study reflects that priority.

“In 2015, our teams set a goal to reach over 6 million students with our middle school curriculum by 2025. Reaching that goal only further affirms the impact of the MassMutual Foundation’s long-term strategic partnership with EVERFI,” Duquette said. “We look forward to continuing to help build financial competency for students, their families, and communities.”

Eversource Celebrates First Smart Meter Installation in Springfield

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From left: state Rep. Brian Ashe, Itron Vice President Jim Fisher, Basketball Hall of Fame Vice President of Marketing Paul Dionne, Eversource Vice President of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy Penni Conner, and Eversource Director of Metering and Smart Meter Operations Luis Pizano stand in front of the newly installed smart meter at the Hall of Fame.
Green Business

Current Events

From left: state Rep. Brian Ashe, Itron Vice President Jim Fisher, Basketball Hall of Fame Vice President of Marketing Paul Dionne, Eversource Vice President of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy Penni Conner, and Eversource Director of Metering and Smart Meter Operations Luis Pizano stand in front of the newly installed smart meter at the Hall of Fame.

From left: state Rep. Brian Ashe, Itron Vice President Jim Fisher, Basketball Hall of Fame Vice President of Marketing Paul Dionne, Eversource Vice President of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy Penni Conner, and Eversource Director of Metering and Smart Meter Operations Luis Pizano stand in front of the newly installed smart meter at the Hall of Fame.

 

Eversource and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame recently commemorated a milestone in Massachusetts’ ongoing energy transition with the ceremonial installation of a smart electric meter.

The event on Aug. 7 marked the symbolic kickoff of Eversource’s work to install smart meters at homes and businesses across the state — a project that officially launched in late July in Western Mass. The company is also preparing for the next phase of its smart meter rollout in Eastern Mass., where crews are installing network devices to support the transition.

“Smart meters are another valuable tool in the toolbox that will help our customers better manage their energy use and costs, especially during peak seasons when heating and cooling drive higher consumption,” said Penni Conner, executive vice president of Customer Experience and Energy Strategy at Eversource. “Even small changes can make a meaningful difference on your energy bill, and this smart technology will give our customers the information they need to identify opportunities to save.”

As a key part of Eversource’s grid modernization strategy, smart meters enable two-way communication between the meter and Eversource’s systems, allowing for faster outage detection, remote service activation, and more accurate billing — all of which, according to the company, contribute to improved reliability and a smarter energy future.

“Upgrading to smart meters is like replacing an old flip phone with a smartphone,” said Jared Lawrence, Eversource’s senior vice president of Customer Operations, Digital Strategy, and chief customer officer. “In addition to empowering our customers with near real-time insights into their energy use — including how and when they use power — smart meters will significantly improve service for our customers by enabling our team to proactively address power outages before they occur and to deliver enhanced, real-time outage alerts.”

The ceremonial installation featured remarks from Eversource and Hall of Fame leadership and a live demonstration of the smart meter installation.

“Smart meters are another valuable tool in the toolbox that will help our customers better manage their energy use and costs, especially during peak seasons when heating and cooling drive higher consumption.”

“We’re delighted to support Eversource’s efforts to bring cutting-edge technology to our region,” said Paul Dionne, vice president of Marketing at the Hall of Fame. “As a landmark destination in Springfield, we’re honored to be part of this milestone and to help lead the way in embracing smart energy solutions and a more sustainable future for our communities.”

 

After the Tipoff

The ceremonial installation at the Hall of Fame marked the official start of a multi-year initiative to deliver advanced meter technology to more than 1.5 million electric customers across the state.

“We’re really excited about the smart meter initiative from Eversource,” said Ed Garibian, CEO of Springfield-based tech company LLumin. “I can now get better insights into my energy usage and lower my costs, and if there is an outage, the length of that outage can be reduced. That’s a huge benefit to all of us.”

Meanwhile, Jim Fisher, vice president at Itron, a global smart infrastructure company supporting the project, emphasized the technology’s track record. “Itron works with utilities and cities around the globe, helping them manage energy and water with intelligent-type infrastructure systems. We’ve seen great adoption of this technology around the world, in North America, and now in Springfield. These systems are working securely and safely, bringing benefits to the end customers.”

Eversource’s smart meter network went live on July 21 following more than a year of planning and testing in collaboration with local partners. Smart meter installations in Western Mass. will continue into early 2026 before expanding into Eastern Mass.

“In February 2024, we set a goal to have our smart meter technology systems live and online on July 21, 2025. Sure enough, this team was able to hit it right on schedule,” said Luis Pizano, director of Metering and Smart Meter Operations. “That milestone was critical to begin installations, and now we’re steadily ramping up, with plans to exchange up to 40,000 meters per month by fall.”

Pizano’s sentiment was echoed by state Rep. Brian Ashe, who attended the Aug. 7 event, calling it a significant step forward for the region. “As legislators, whether you’re a representative or a senator, the job really is to be an advocate for your district, an ambassador for the district that you serve, the Pioneer Valley, Western Massachusetts, and the Commonwealth as a whole. I am thrilled that Eversource is able to have this opening and to understand more about smart meters.”

Holyoke Mayor Recognized for Leadership in Clean Energy

By
Green Business

Changing the Narrative

Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia was named a finalist for the Mayor of the Year Award, presented by the Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition (NREC), in recognition of his leadership and innovation in clean energy and community development.

Garcia is the first mayor in Massachusetts to be recognized by the NREC. The award will be presented during Massachusetts Clean Energy Week, taking place from Sept. 29 to Oct. 4.

“I am overwhelmed and honored to receive this recognition on behalf of Holyoke,” Garcia said. “This award is for all of us in Holyoke, not just me — our residents, business owners, and neighborhood and community activists who love our city and work so hard to move us forward in the effort to harness our clean energy resources to continue to bring environmental and economic benefits to our city.”

Holyoke has become a leader in hydroelectric and renewable energy. Through community partnerships and long-term planning, Holyoke Gas & Electric (HG&E) has built a sustainable clean energy portfolio. Its core strategy is to overestimate future demand, an approach that led the utility to upgrade infrastructure and install one of Massachusetts’ largest utility batteries to handle peak demand.

Affordable clean energy has also helped to attract ventures like the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center and Sublime Systems to Holyoke.

In a letter to the mayor, NREC Executive Director Kristin Rode praised Holyoke’s progress and Garcia’s community-centered approach.

Mayor Joshua Garcia

Mayor Joshua Garcia

“This award is for all of us in Holyoke, not just me — our residents, business owners, and neighborhood and community activists who love our city and work so hard to move us forward in the effort to harness our clean energy resources to continue to bring environmental and economic benefits to our city.”

“Your dedication to your community and the innovative solutions you’re implementing make you a natural fit for recognition during Massachusetts Clean Energy Week. Your leadership in Holyoke has caught our attention as truly exceptional,” she wrote.

“We understand that Western Massachusetts is often left out of the spotlight when it comes to statewide recognition, and we want to change that narrative. From what we have learned about your innovative approaches to municipal leadership and community development, you represent exactly the kind of community-centered leadership that deserves to be celebrated and shared with mayors across the Commonwealth.”

Garcia has also negotiated upgrades to Holyoke’s wastewater treatment system, replacing outdated infrastructure with energy-efficient, environmentally sound technology.

One of these separates the existing combined sewer flows within Holyoke’s River Terrace area. By leveraging clean energy savings and working closely with state and federal agencies, his administration secured funding to reduce long-term operating costs and improve water quality. These improvements not only align with Holyoke’s sustainability goals, but also position the city as a model for green municipal operations across Massachusetts.

“I appreciate Kristin’s kind thoughts about our work to change the narrative,” Garcia said. “That is exactly my greatest hope, every day, for Holyoke, for all our people — to change past perceptions and narratives. This industrial city is again being known as a place of so many possibilities.”

Representatives of the Northeast Renewable Energy Coalition visited Holyoke in early August to tour the city and learn more about these projects and initiatives.

“This nomination is an unequivocal testament to every Holyoke resident’s shared commitment to a stronger future,” Garcia said.

How AI Helped Me Crack the Code on the Boulder River

By Contributor
Technology

Fishing for Answers

By Sean Hogan

 

I recall attending a conference around 2016 where one of my friends and a speaker at the conference brought up artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning and how they would change the way we do business.

At the time, I had no clue what he meant by that; I couldn’t imagine computers taking away our day-to-day tasks or improving our customer service. I was the one with crossed arms in the back of the room stating that “AI won’t replace my technicians and my support team.” We talked among our team, and we really didn’t see a fit for AI, nor did we truly understand what capabilities AI may have in the future.

Fast-forward 10 years, and I have embraced AI in the workplace. It started slowly; I used Microsoft Copilot to help write some policy and procedure pieces — you know, the tedious docs that no one wants to write, or read, for that matter. I found AI extremely helpful for writing.

Sean Hogan

Sean Hogan

“AI was helping us with time-saving technology, and machine learning was helping our tools become better day after day.”

AI then crept into several software tools in our tech stack. AI was helping us with time-saving technology, and machine learning was helping our tools become better day after day. The next step in our AI migration was to use ChatGPT to help with social media advertising — you know, those ads and images that everyone can tell is AI.

I even use AI to help out in my garden. I upload pictures of plants and ask for help, and AI can typically identify the plant. Case in point: I grew a pepper plant in my garden, but I had no clue what type of pepper. The taste test didn’t work out so much; my mouth was on fire for about an hour. I then took a picture and uploaded the picture to Chat, only to find that harmless-looking pepper was a thai green chili, which, according to Chat, is 10 to 20 times hotter that a jalapeno. Next time, I need to upload the picture before biting the pepper in half.

Eventually, I started hearing people in my circle saying they were no longer searching in Google, but were now exclusively searching in ChatGPT. Wait — this can’t be true? Well, not only did I find out it’s true, but its flat-out better. I have since been using ChatGPT for my searches. It is excellent for market research, background information, advice, and recipes. Yes, recipes — I find myself searching recipes often, without any advertising pop-ups or other distractions.

This has been my evolution of working with AI. I want to share a real-life story from my vacation this summer. This one really impressed me.

During a recent vacation in Montana, I found myself on one of my favorite stretches of water, the Boulder River, just outside Big Timber. I’ve fished this area before, but on this day, I hit a wall. Fish were feeding, but no matter what dry flies I cast, I couldn’t get a single strike. Frustration was setting in.

That’s when I turned to something new in my fishing gear: ChatGPT.

“Eventually, I started hearing people in my circle saying they were no longer searching in Google, but were now exclusively searching in ChatGPT.”

I pulled out my phone and entered details like the river, time of day, water temperature, and weather conditions into the AI. In seconds, ChatGPT offered several dry fly patterns and presentation tips I hadn’t tried. It recommended smaller dries, and subtle presentation adjustments, which made sense — but I wasn’t entirely confident in choosing the right fly.

I had recently purchased a new fly box filled with various dries, many of which I didn’t recognize. So I took a photo of the box and uploaded it to ChatGPT. Amazingly, it identified the specific flies in the compartments and told me exactly which one to use.

Taking that advice, I tied on a small dry fly and stacked it behind a larger, more visible fly for better tracking. The results were immediate. Within a few casts, I was landing fish — more than a few, in fact.

It was an eye-opener. While I usually stick to nymphing (sub-surface flies), this experience boosted my confidence with dry flies. Even more, it showed how AI can be a valuable tool on the river, especially when traditional tactics fall short.

Next time you’re out fishing and feel stumped, consider using a bit of tech. You might be surprised what a virtual fishing buddy can help you catch.

AI is still new — and I need to expand my view and come up with more real-life scenarios where AI can help.

 

Sean Hogan is president of Hogan Technology Inc.

Holyoke Community College to Celebrate Grand Opening of New Tech Center

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) will celebrate the grand opening of its new Tech Center with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 3. at 11:30 a.m.

The HCC Tech Center, located on the second floor of the HCC Campus Center, is a new space dedicated to providing students with all the technological support they need to be successful.

“We provide the first level of support to students and all their personal devices — laptops, cellphones, tablets,” Tech Center manager Walter Pfau said. “If it’s got a screen and a power button, we’ll help them troubleshoot it. But the heart of this space isn’t about fixing devices; it’s about helping students feel more capable, more technologically independent, and, ultimately, more connected.”

The ribbon cutting ceremony leads off a two-day open house in the Tech Center, which coincides with the HCC Resource Fair running Sept. 3 and 4 nearby in the HCC cafeteria.

Funding for the Tech Center came from a $250,000 Tech Rise grant HCC received from the Employment and Training Administration, which is part of the U.S. Department of Labor. The money was principally used to buy furniture, computers, and other technology for the center, as well as the hiring of student interns.

Besides Pfau and other IT staff, the Tech Center will be run by a team of student interns who can also offer one-on-one support to their classmates who need assistance with their devices, computer programs, and apps.

“Interns not only provide peer support, but also co-develop resources, assist and lead training sessions, and bring fresh ideas to campus-wide technology conversations,” Pfau said. “This spirit of innovation and collaboration aligns with HCC’s mission to educate, inspire, and connect, empowering students to build digital confidence and community at the same time.”

Previously, students had to go across campus to the first floor of the Frost Building to the IT Help Desk for all their computer needs. The HCC Tech Center is more centrally located, across from Student Engagement, adjoining the HCC Bookstore, and steps away from the cafeteria and food court, where students tend to congregate between classes.

In addition to one-on-one tech support, the Tech Center has computer stations for students to use, a classroom for interactive workshops and meetings, and cubicles where other HCC support staff, such as financial aid counselors, can set up shop during special events, like Registration Express and Accepted Students Days.

“The Tech Center is an extension of the IT Help Desk, but it goes beyond the physical repairs that the Help Desk is set up for,” said Scott Conrad, director of IT Services. “This will allow us to spend more time on the in-depth problems students might have.”

Connecticut State Community College Introduces Inaugural Campus Presidents

By
Daily News

Joshua Moon-Johnson

ENFIELD, Conn. — Connecticut State Community College (CT State) has appointed seven inaugural campus presidents to lead operations of its campus locations statewide.

“I am proud to introduce our new campus presidents to Connecticut State Community College,” said Christina Royal, CT State interim president. “Each of them brings exceptional talent, proven leadership, and expertise that will strengthen our campuses … and benefit the communities we serve. Through their collective experience, we’ll continue to deepen partnerships, advance workforce development, and expand opportunities that support student success and strengthen Connecticut’s economy and future.”

Locally, Joshua Moon-Johnson was named campus president of CT State Asnuntuck, CT State Manchester, and CT State Middlesex, bringing more than 20 years of experience in higher education, having held leadership roles at institutions including College of San Mateo, American River College, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and most recently West Valley College, where he was provost and vice president of Academic Affairs. At West Valley, he led initiatives to enhance academic programs, faculty support, and equitable student outcomes.

A published author and advocate, Moon-Johnson has contributed to national conversations on educational equity and LGBT+ inclusion and advocacy. He has served on boards such as the Assoc. of California Community College Administrators and the Sacramento LGBT Center. He holds a doctorate in higher education and LGBT studies from Northern Illinois University, master’s degrees in social sciences and market research, and a bachelor’s degree in business.

MCLA Welcomes Three New Faculty Members for 2025-26 Academic Year

By
Daily News

Amr (Elkabbanny) Ibrahim

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) announced that three new faculty members will be joining the Trailblazer community for the college’s fall semester: Dr. Amr (Elkabbany) Ibrahim, Muge Karabag, and Amanda Davis.

Muge Karabag

Ibrahim joins MCLA’s Chemistry department as a visiting assistant professor. A medicinal chemist, his research focuses on the design and synthesis of small-molecule antivirals and the use of structure-based drug design to interrogate host-virus interactions, including V-ATPase modulation and TIM-1-mediated entry.

Amanda Davis

Ibrahim’s expertise spans organic synthesis, SAR, computational modeling, and ADME profiling, and he is committed to mentoring undergraduates through research that bridges chemistry and biology. At MCLA, he will teach biochemistry and related courses while building collaborations that provide hands-on, publication-quality experiences for students.

Karabag joins MCLA as a visiting assistant professor of Multimedia Journalism. She is a media scholar and practitioner with a background in broadcast journalism and digital communication. She previously worked as a reporter and news anchor for television channels in Istanbul and served as an assistant university professor in the department of New Media and Communication in Turkey.

Karabag’s research interests include artificial intelligence, interspecies communication, AI and society, technology and society, and the impact of digital applications on social behavior. She is also developing a digital services startup focused on home-based solutions in the U.S., exploring the intersection of technology, user experience, and everyday life.

Davis is a part of MCLA’s Nursing department, where she combines her love for teaching with her years of hands-on nursing experience as a visiting assistant professor of Health Professions. She earned her master’s degre in nursing education and has served as the simulation coordinator for the MCLA Nursing program, nurse leader for the North Adams Public School System, and a medical-surgical nurse.

Passionate about end-of-life care, oncology, and school nursing, Davis strives to prepare future nurses through engaging, realistic simulations and a focus on compassionate, evidence-based practice. In both lecture and clinical settings, she emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and strong clinical judgment to help students develop both the skills and heart needed to provide exceptional patient care.

bankESB Contributes $5,000 to Belchertown Senior Center

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB announced a $5,000 contribution to the Belchertown Senior Center to support the purchase of a new van that will provide reliable transportation for local seniors. The new vehicle, which features the bankESB logo, will help ensure older residents have safe, accessible transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and community events.

The donation underscores bankESB’s long-standing commitment to strengthening the communities it serves, with a focus on programs that support seniors and enhance quality of life.

“We’re honored to support the Belchertown Senior Center and the essential services it provides to our senior neighbors,” said Matthew Sosik, president and CEO of bankESB. “Transportation is a key part of maintaining independence and staying connected to the community, and we’re proud to play a role in making that possible.”

The Belchertown Senior Center’s new van will replace an aging vehicle, expanding its ability to serve more residents efficiently. The center serves hundreds of seniors annually through its programs, meals, wellness initiatives, and transportation services.

“The Belchertown Senior Center expresses heartfelt gratitude for the generous support we receive,” said Jessica Langlois, executive director of the Belchertown Senior Center. “Our partnership with bankESB has greatly enriched our community, and their unwavering commitment to our mission is truly appreciated. The funds donated will be dedicated to acquiring a new van for our transportation program, enhancing our ability to serve those in need. We cannot thank them enough for being a vital part of our efforts.”

PeoplesBank Expects Arena Naming Rights to Pay Dividends

By
Matt Bannister (left), executive vice president of Corporate Responsibility and Sponsorships for PeoplesBank, and Ben Weiss, general manager of PeoplesBank Arena.
Cover Story

Statement of Purpose

Matt Bannister (left), executive vice presidentof Corporate Responsibility and Sponsorships for PeoplesBank, and Ben Weiss, general manager of PeoplesBank Arena.

Matt Bannister (left), executive vice president
of Corporate Responsibility and Sponsorships for PeoplesBank, and Ben Weiss, general manager of PeoplesBank Arena.

 

Brian Canina says the lengthy process that ended with PeoplesBank acquiring the naming rights to what was the XL Center in Hartford actually began with talk of putting the institution’s brand on another Connecticut arena.

Indeed, a firm selling the naming rights for Mohegan Sun Arena approached the bank in late 2023, said Canina, the institution’s president and chief operating officer. And while the bank’s leaders kicked the tires on the concept, as a way to make a name for itself in the Connecticut market, they ultimately decided the casino’s broad regional, national, and even international client mix was not exactly the strong local audience it was seeking.

“It would have been dollars that weren’t necessarily working as hard as they could for us,” he said, adding, however, that the many potential benefits of putting the bank’s name on an arena became more apparent through that exercise. And when the bank’s leaders saw a small news item detailing how the naming rights for the XL Center would be coming up for bid, they eagerly entered that fray.

Eventually, PeoplesBank bank entered into a nine-month negotiating process that ended with acquiring the naming rights to the arena in downtown Hartford in a 10-year deal for $20 million, with an average annual payment of $2 million, according to the Hartford Business Journal. The deal comes with two five-year options for renewal, said Matt Bannister, executive vice president of Corporate Responsibility and Sponsorships for PeoplesBank, so it could run until 2046 if all options are exercised.

As he talked about return on investment from the naming rights, Canina said there are several ways to measure it — everything from deposits to new commercial loans to overall market share in the Connecticut region, where the bank has been making a strong push since establishing a retail presence with the acquisition of First National Bank of Suffield in 2018. But perhaps the biggest is the opportunity to firmly differentiate the institution from the former People’s United Bank, formerly known as … People’s Bank.

Indeed, it’s been more than three years since that institution merged with M&T Bank and became fully integrated into M&T, but confusion lingers, especially in Connecticut, where People’s United had a strong presence, having started as Bridgeport Savings Bank in 1842, said Canina, adding that the PeoplesBank Arena should help put some of that confusion to rest.

“We’ve had a lot of challenges with our brand because of the confusion with People’s United Bank,” he explained. “The people of Connecticut know People’s United Bank as People’s Bank, so when they see our PeoplesBank signs, it’s hard to differentiate.”

The acquisition of the naming rights to the arena comes as it is undergoing more than $145 million in renovations that include everything from new seats in the lower bowl to creation of additional loge seating; from the addition of several ‘bunker suites’ (boxes that sit under the concourse and feature a walkway up to floor-level seats) to a new, 750-seat PeoplesBank Event Level Club to which memberships are currently being sold.

The work is expected to be done by October, said Ben Weiss, general manager of PeoplesBank Arena as well as other facilities managed by the Oak View Group, adding that the renovations are being undertaken with the goal of attracting more events, and especially more concerts, such as one featuring Stevie Nicks on Oct. 25.

The facility competes with Mohegan Sun Arena for such concerts, he noted, adding that most shows will make just one stop in Connecticut. The PeoplesBank Arena is much larger, he said, and with the renovations, it has more of the amenities that artists are demanding.

“The spirit of this renovation is to attract more events,” Weiss explained, adding that the venue has averaged around 105 to 110 events a year and needs that number to be 125 to 135. “And we really want to host more concerts. This renovation makes us more competitive — we have a larger capacity than Mohegan, and now we’ll have more amenities.”

Meanwhile, the plot continues to thicken concerning the WNBA’s Connecticut Sun and a possible move from the Mohegan Sun Arena to Hartford, Boston, Houston, or somewhere else. Many analysts say Boston has an edge over Hartford in this competition (if it comes down to those two) because it already hosts an NBA franchise, and most other WNBA teams are in NBA cities, but Weiss said Hartford, especially with the renovations to its arena, is an attractive option.

Meanwhile, just the ongoing speculation about a move to the PeoplesBank Arena brings some exposure for the bank, Bannister said.

The WNBA is white hot, and both Canina and Bannister say a team playing in PeoplesBank Arena would only make the bank’s investment in the naming rights more fruitful. But with or without a WNBA team, they consider this a sound strategic initiative.

For this issue and its focus on banking and financial services, we’ll take an in-depth look at how it came about and why, and how success will be measured.

 

What’s in a Name?

As they detailed all that comes with the naming rights, Canina and Bannister said it’s a lengthy list.

It includes several different signs inside and outside the venue, especially the marquee on Trumbull Street, as well as roughly 40 signs around the city, such as those alerting motorists which exit to take for the PeoplesBank Arena, for example. There’s also a 15-seat luxury box, one of those 18-seat bunker suites, and two four-seat loge boxes, adding up to 41 tickets for every event at the arena.

“That won’t be nearly enough to meet demand for the Stevie Nicks show,” Bannister joked, adding that the deal also comes with a $10,000 ticket credit per year, parking spaces within the arena, a season-ticket package to UConn football at nearby Pratt & Whitney Field, and even a PeoplesBank dedicated entrance, at which PeoplesBank customers can show their debit card and get in more quickly than at the other entrances.

“We think that’s a nice perk,” said Bannister, adding that the luxury and bunker boxes and 41 total seats will be parceled out to customers, prospects, employees, and nonprofits, which could then auction them off at fundraisers, generating value in many ways.

But while all those sweeteners are good, the real drivers of this deal, Canina said, were the opportunity to quell the confusion with People’s United and the opportunity to gain greater visibility in an area where the bank is trying to grow market share.

“Now that People’s United has become M&T Bank, we were hoping that the confusion would go away, but it really hasn’t — we continue to be challenged,” he told BusinessWest. “We’ve been looking for ways that we could really stand out and emphasize that PeoplesBank is not People’s United Bank, and we thought this was a great avenue to do it.”

This avenue, he added, does not connote any type of movement away from the bank’s roots in Western Mass., which were planted in Holyoke in 1885, with silk mill owner William Skinner serving as its first president.

“Hartford and Springfield are not very far apart,” he noted. “They’re one conglomerate city in some way, shape, or form; we share an airport; and so many people from Western Mass. go down to the now-named PeoplesBank Arena for events. We felt that this wasn’t so much abandoning roots, but more expanding roots.”

As for the bank’s push into Connecticut, it now has eight locations in the state, with the latest additions — banking centers in Avon and Glastonbury — having opened earlier this year. A new banking center, with accompanying space for backroom operations, is being created in CityPlace II, adjacent to PeoplesBank Arena, and is expected to open in the first quarter of 2026.

Overall, growth in the Connecticut market has been steady, Canina noted, adding that PeoplesBank’s strong commercial presence in the state eventually drove its retail expansion there.

That push started with the acquisition (the first in its history) of First National Bank of Suffield in 2018. That institution had four locations in Suffield, West Suffield, Windsor, and East Granby, which were renamed to First Suffield Bank, a division of PeoplesBank, and then subsequently converted to the PeoplesBank name.

PeoplesBank added a location in West Hartford in 2020, followed by South Windsor in 2023 and then Avon and Glastonbury, said Canina, adding that future plans include new locations in Bloomfield, projected for the fourth quarter of 2026, and New Britain, for the second quarter of 2027.

“We believe in the economic rebirth of Hartford, and we thought this [purchase of the naming rights] could be part of that rebirth,” he went on. “We thought it was important to make a statement that we believe in Hartford.”

 

Banking on It

Getting back to the decision to take this aggressive step and what it means for the bank, Canina said it obviously reallocates some marketing dollars spent in the Connecticut market and puts them to work in a way that is expected to generate more value.

“We hired an outside firm to evaluate the value of the contract and what we would get for it,” he noted. “It was a good analysis for us; we were able to compare it to what our internal spend was on other things in order to determine if we could get more value and if we should move forward with this — and we concluded that we can.”

One of the many specific line items in the contract that the bank was able to negotiate is an escalating cost for the naming rights.

“It’s not a flat X number of dollars per year for X number of years,” he explained. “In part because of the construction this year, the disruption, and not having as many events — and with the notion that they will be bringing in more events — we agreed that we would pay more in future years.

“The anticipation is that our brand awareness in the market will increase,” he went on, referring to the naming rights and their bottom-line impact. “We’re going to be aligning this with expansion of our geographic footprint in terms of banking centers; the two strategies hand-in-hand should increase our financial performance overall, which will enable us to absorb the increase in the contract price.”

Meanwhile, the naming rights contract is not expected to significantly increase the overall marketing budget beyond what it would normally be or impact any aspects of the bank’s operation to foot that bill, Canina continued.

“As a community bank, our focus is on customers, community, and our associates. We’re not going to lower our deposit rates or increase our loan rates to pay for this, our employees will not be impacted, and we will contribute more than any other mutual bank or any other financial institution in our geographic footprint. We’ll manage this through what our normal marketing spend would be.”

Meanwhile, value is the driving force behind each aspect of the contract, said Bannister, noting that one of the items promoted by those selling the rights was the impact from national broadcasts of UConn men’s and women’s basketball games (each team plays half its home games in the arena). “But the national exposure to us isn’t as valuable as the local exposure, because we’re in the three counties, so we dialed down some of the assets that would have national visibility and replaced them with things that had local visibility, because that was more important to us.”

As for the arena, and its prospects for attracting more events, as he offered BusinessWest a tour of the arena, Weiss pointed to several improvements, all of them designed to modernize the facility, provide more amenities to visitors and performers alike, and, overall, make the venue more competitive with others in the region.

“Right now, we do eight to 10 concerts a year; post-renovation, we should be doing 25-plus as we ramp back up,” he said, adding that the venue continues to ink new shows, such as Pentatonix. “It’s not going to happen overnight, but that’s where we need to be, and we’ll get there.”

 

The Craft Beer Industry Is Definitely Flat

By
Ray Berry (left) and Mike Yates at White Lion Brewing in downtown Springfield.
Features Special Coverage

Tapped Out?

Ray Berry (left) and Mike Yates at White Lion Brewing in downtown Springfield.

Ray Berry (left) and Mike Yates at White Lion Brewing in downtown Springfield.

Mike Yates says it’s a matter of simple math.

“People aren’t drinking as much, and when they do drink, they have a lot more options,” said Yates, brewmaster and business partner with Ray Berry in Springfield-based White Lion Brewing, adding that this math presents a challenge for area craft brewers, and it has for a while now.

Berry agreed, noting that, while they didn’t do it single-handedly, it was the Millennials that provided the foundation for the craft beer industry to build and boom. And now, those in that generation, the oldest of which are in their mid-40s, have more and different responsibilities and are thus spending less time at brew pubs and buying fewer cans and growlers.

“Ten, 15 years ago, it was the Millennials that propped up the craft beer trade and provided the enthusiasm,” Berry explained. “As those 10 to 15 years have gone by, the Millennials’ palates have changed, they have different work-life challenges, they may have children and the children are getting older … there are different priorities.

“So they’re not visiting the breweries as often as they used to,” he went on. “And the generation that stands behind them, the Gen Zs, are not as inclined to visit craft breweries as the Millennials were, nor are they as loyal.”

Meanwhile, as noted by Yates, there are more options for Millennials and everyone else — a still-dizzying number of craft beers, domestics, distilled spirits, hard seltzers, cannabis, and more. On top of all this, there are other pain points that range from inflation to workforce issues (including cost and availability) to post-COVID realities, such as fewer workers in their offices to support brew pubs in business districts — like White Lion.

“Ten, 15 years ago, it was the Millennials that propped up the craft beer trade and provided the enthusiasm. As those 10 to 15 years have gone by, the Millennials’ palates have changed, they have different work-life challenges, they may have children and the children are getting older … there are different priorities.”

All this prompted Brewers Assoc. President Bart Watson to sum up 2024 with the single word ‘painful,’ a nod to statistics showing a 2% decline in overall craft beer production and more breweries closing last year (399) than opening (335) — a sharp reversal from just a few years ago.

All this adds up to more challenging times and the need to adjust and pivot.

Which explains paint-and-sip nights at Skyline Brewery in Westfield, where participants can get a painting lesson and a cold brew, or a glass of wine, on the side, said Lisa Lafreniere, co-owner with Dana Bishop. It also explains Skyline’s popular trivia nights, live music, full food menu, wine, ciders, slushies, homemade sodas, and back patio area, which comes complete with stunning views of the farm below.

“People have to have a bigger dynamic than craft beer — the people who are struggling now are places just relying on their beer and not much else,” said Lafreniere, who, like Bishop and everyone else in this business, has noticed not-so-subtle changes in the landscape and what people are calling a ‘maturation’ of the industry.

It’s been marked, as noted, by consolidation and closures of some operations and declining sales overall and that need to pivot and offer more than pilsners, sours, IPAs, and stouts.

Dana Bishop and Lisa Lafreniere, co-owners of Skyline Brewery, say today’s craft brewers have to offer customers much more than beer.

Dana Bishop and Lisa Lafreniere, co-owners of Skyline Brewery, say today’s craft brewers have to offer customers much more than beer.

At White Lion, for example, its Pridelands on Mane event destination in Tower Square Park, across the street from its brew pub, recently hosted a puppy pool party that attracted a few dozen four-legged participants and their owners. A few days later, it hosted a seafood festival and has plans for a wine-tasting event and also a town meeting of sorts featuring candidates for Springfield City Council.

Such programs are designed to fully activate the space (complete with custom-designed shipping containers), give area residents more opportunities to sample White Lion brews, and provide more of an experience than simply sampling the latest offering.

It’s not a recent phenomenon, to be sure, but it is becoming more critical with each passing year, if not each passing quarter.

“The days of going out of your way to visit a brewery for a pint or two and then maybe spinning off to another brewery for a pint or two … that still happens, but not to the extent that it did,” Berry said. “So now, you have to create an additional experience.”

 

Pint of View

Over the past 30 years or so, BusinessWest has chronicled the rise of the craft beer sector in this region, from its infancy to an impactful presence in communities across the 413.

The names of these businesses have become part of the landscape — Tree House, 7 Railroads, Hot Plate, Abandoned Building, Vanished Valley, Barrington Brewery, Skyline, White Lion, and many more.

These ventures are still thriving, but several breweries have closed in this region and across the state, including some big players, such as Cambridge Brewing.

Pioneer Valley Brewing in Turners Falls was a recent local casualty, closing its doors on May 31, for all the reasons listed above.

“Expenses have gone through the roof,” co-owner Steve Valeski told the Greenfield Recorder. “The last two years have been devastating. Prices went up, everything’s gone up. It’s the market, it’s the economy. People aren’t going out as much. Shipping’s more expensive. Cans are more expensive. Everything is more expensive. We just can’t keep charging more and more for a glass of beer. It gets to a certain point where you have to say no.”

Most area brewers are still saying yes, but success is not coming as easily as it did a few decades ago, or even five years ago.

“People have to have a bigger dynamic than craft beer — the people who are struggling now are places just relying on their beer and not much else.”

There are many reasons for this, said Bishop, noting those demographic changes mentioned earlier, but also rising costs of everything from barley and malt to labor. In response, Skyline has taken steps to bring many products in-house, such as soda, while also implanting strategies to manage the skyrocketing cost of yeast.

Tanzi Cannon-Eckerle, majority owner of Brew Practitioners in East Longmeadow, summed it up succinctly and effectively: “there’s fewer butts in seats.”

Elaborating, she said her brewery, which does not serve food and focuses exclusively on beer and other beverages, tracks business performance in several ways, from overall visitation to new customers to spending, and the numbers tell a story.

“From last year to this, we’ve seen a decrease in the number of people coming in the door,” said Cannon-Eckerle, an employment lawyer by day and brewer … well, the rest of the time. “Spending per person has been about the same, but the number of people has changed.”

She wasn’t about to put it all on Millennials, although she has seen that maturation of the market in Western Mass. and beyond, and less overall enthusiasm for breweries and craft brews.

“This academic or intellectual pursuit of all things craft beer and it becoming cool to visit all the breweries … has that gone by the wayside? Maybe it’s not as popular with the younger drinkers,” she acknowledged, adding quickly that there is still a healthy thirst for beer, and it’s up to individual brewers to maintain a buzz for their products.

Lafreniere agreed, noting that, overall, there is less enthusiasm for craft beer, an observation that extends to everything from sales to the buzz once generated when a local brewer would roll out a new brand.

Two of the guests at White Lion’s recent puppy pool party.

Two of the guests at White Lion’s recent puppy pool party.

“People just don’t line up for a beer release — you don’t see that anymore,” she said. “They know it’s out, they know they’ll get down there; the hype, the excitement about the business is much lower.

“The bubble has burst — there’s far less buzz,” she went on. “We are friends with a lot of people who own local breweries, and we talk all the time about what is gone and the struggle to get people in the tap rooms. We’ve seen a lot of our friends that were wicked busy pre-COVID, and now, somewhat after COVID … it’s night and day.”

The challenges facing the industry were made clear at a Massachusetts Brewers Guild annual conference in Framingham 18 months ago, said Berry, where Watson, then the chief economist for the Brewers Assoc., painted a challenging picture for brewers.

“He was monitoring the trends nationwide, and the trends were either flat and going sideways or going down in particular areas of operation,” Berry told BusinessWest, returning to the notion of pivoting and providing more of an experience.

“It just cannot be a location where people come and get a beer,” he explained. “You can get a beer anywhere; you can get a beer in your backyard. What experience are you driving?”

 

Head Games

Berry said last month’s event was the second puppy pool party. The first was pre-COVID, and the second edition drew maybe 30 dogs (puppies and adults alike) and provided another opportunity to grow the brand.

“There’s 30 people that we had an opportunity to engage that we may not have been able to engage otherwise,” he noted, adding that the same is true of the seafood festival (the third annual) and the town meeting featuring City Council candidates.

“It’s about creating new experiences that people appreciate and that may keep them coming back or, at minimum, pay attention to what the city of Springfield has to offer,” he went on, adding this is what breweries must do now if they want to succeed.

Lafreniere and Bishop concurred.

“Getting people in now … it has to be a party,” said Bishop, adding that this explains Skyline’s many efforts to draw visitors, which also include a strong focus on food, initiated in 2024.

“For us, it’s a lot of food; we found that the beer drinkers are here, but we need to have the food be very exciting for them,” said Lafreniere, which is why they’ve gone from pretzels and flatbreads to a full menu that includes everything from chicken sandwiches, lobster rolls, and quesadillas to pulled pork from their own smoker.

Beyond food, there needs to be other ingredients that add up to an experience, they said, adding that trivia nights are part of the equation, as are paint-and-sip nights that draw maybe 12 to 15 people.

“The days of going out of your way to visit a brewery for a pint or two and then maybe spinning off to another brewery for a pint or two … that still happens, but not to the extent that it did. So now, you have to create an additional experience.”

“It’s not going to save us, but it helps,” said Lafreniere, adding that the collective efforts to bring more people to the brewery are paying dividends.

Cannon-Eckerle, meanwhile, stressed that, while breweries are fun — many started as hobbies and evolved into businesses — they are, in fact, businesses. And like all businesses, owners must pivot and adjust, but also focus on building their brands and differentiating themselves from the others.

“As in any business, you have to keep your ear to the ground and watch for market trends and where consumer spending is moving,” she explained.

Operations like Brew Practitioners, which are strictly breweries and focus almost exclusively on beer, have fewer opportunities to diversify and adjust, but they still must do so, and her business has, adding mocktails and other non-alcoholic beverages to meet the demands of younger customers.

“We sell quite a few of them,” she said. “The costs on them are pretty high, but it’s a pivot that we had to do to meet market demand.

“It’s about how we engage the individuals to come see us,” Cannon-Eckerle went on. “Before, when it was super cool and everyone went to see every new brewery, and whenever you went to a new town, the first thing you wanted to was check out the breweries, it was a lot easier. The question now is, how do we adjust to all that? It’s just not enough to hang out your shingle and say you’re a brewery.

“Spending is in flux right now — we don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring,” she continued. “People are being choosy about where they spend their money on a $7, $8, or $9 beer, and it better be good.”

Berry agreed. “If you don’t make adjustments, if you try to stay in a singular lane,” he said, “you will not survive, especially in this trade.”

 

Even as Federal Incentives Dry Up, Contractors Tout Value of Solar Energy

By
PV Squared workers install solar panels on a house.
Green Business Special Coverage

Power Play

PV Squared workers install solar panels on a house.

PV Squared workers install solar panels on a house.

 

 

“I’m frustrated — and, frankly, I’m disgusted.”

Those words open a blog post written recently by Greg Garrison, president of Northeast Solar, about the One Big Beautiful Bill — specifically the provision that ends, on Dec. 31, federal tax incentives for people who have solar energy installed in their homes.

The rest of that post is more measured, and even optimistic when it comes to the future of solar energy, but Garrison’s dismay is real.

“I had written some posts previous to that where I said, ‘you know, this could happen,’” he told BusinessWest during a recent visit to the company’s Hatfield headquarters. “When it actually came about, I was disappointed because that’s real money that the federal government is putting in the hands of local homeowners here, and it stays here.”

But only for a few more months. The only solar tax credits extended by President Trump’s bill are for third-party solar installers, and that goes to a corporate entity, not the homeowner, Garrison noted. “So this one core thing they could have done to make the middle class and American households a little bit stronger in this economy, they took away.”

Indeed, Northeast sells its equipment outright to the customer; some other companies operate under a third-party ownership agreement where the business owns the array and sells the power back to the homeowner; these companies will continue to benefit from federal tax incentives through 2027.

“This one core thing they could have done to make the middle class and American households a little bit stronger in this economy, they took away.”

For homeowners now calling Northeast to take advantage of solar installation before the end of 2025, well, they’re out of luck, as the company is fully booked through the end of the year. But that bad luck extends only to the federal tax incentive; Garrison’s mission now, as it has been all along, is to show people that solar energy carries long-term savings no matter what tax breaks they’re getting.

“The way this legislation cuts the production tax credits instead of incentivizing domestic manufacturing is not great policy, so the One Big Beautiful Bill will make it harder for a domestic renewable energy supply chain to be successful,” said Alex Peterkin, president of PV Squared, a Greenfield-based, worker-owned cooperative solar installation company.

Still, he told BusinessWest, the elimination of the federal solar incentives for customers is a bigger concern nationally than it is in New England, where the cost of electricity is relatively high, particularly in communities that don’t have municipal utilities. In Western Mass., he added, solar power still makes sense, and the long-term savings should still be attractive.

“When you remove the investment tax credit that homeowners were able to access, it doesn’t significantly change the long-term energy saving that they would have access to by installing solar in their homes,” Peterkin said. “It’s still an excellent choice for homeowners and businesses to get solar energy in their homes and in their businesses.”

Greg Garrison says the loss of federal solar incentives, while disheartening, shouldn’t deter homeowners from considering other ways solar energy saves them money in the long term.

Greg Garrison says the loss of federal solar incentives, while disheartening, shouldn’t deter homeowners from considering other ways solar energy saves them money in the long term.

While timetables vary for full payback of the initial investment, homeowners who install solar can typically expect their rate savings to pay for it in six to eight years. Taking away the federal incentives doesn’t change that by more than a couple years, Peterkin explained.

“This equipment is designed to last decades — 30 years, even 40 years for some equipment. A slightly different payback schedule isn’t significant when you’re going to be producing energy for 40 years.”

 

Watts Happening

Garrison said Northeast Solar has grown from a very small outfit to 24 employees today.

“We don’t grow any faster than our installation capacity — so it’s been nice, steady growth. And I would say a lot of the initial growth was from the incentives that were out there, both on the state and federal sides, with the intention of building more capacity in the state, getting more solar installed, and then making it more competitive and driving down prices.”

That has largely come to pass, he added. “When I first started in solar 15 years ago, [installation] was around $10 a watt. So if you wanted a 10-kilowatt system, it cost you $100,000. There were incentives and rebates to do to help you pay for that, but that’s what it cost. Today, it’s less than $3 a watt. So what used to be $100,000 is now less than $30,000.”

All that means the annual savings solar customers see over other forms of energy have shrunk the payback timetable, which, as noted, is typically around six to eight years.

“We’ve never offered leases. We’ve always offered direct buy, so the money stays here,” Garrison noted. “And as far as the incentives and rebates, like the federal tax credit, I looked at that money as an incentive for communities to develop better solar policies, better permitting policies, to get solar to be something that everyone would want or could afford. So every time that we put a system on someone’s roof and that 30% tax credit came back, that was money that’s going right into the economy.”

Meanwhile, both he and Peterkin said, it’s much easier to install solar capacity than increase fossil fuel generation at a time when the region — and the country — needs more production.

“It’s especially important to build solar energy on your homes or your businesses because then your energy costs are locked in. You’re not subject to increasing rates.”

“The Massachusetts DPU expects energy requirements are going to be much higher in the coming years,” Peterkin said. “And it’s difficult to have new generation created in Massachusetts. The cheapest way to get electrons onto the grid is with solar power. Other energy sources cost a little bit more; some cost quite a bit more. It’s so expensive to build a coal-fired plant. It’s so expensive to build a natural gas plant. But it’s so cheap to build solar power. And it’s frustrating to see that the best option to meet this quickly growing need is being disincentivized.”

Solar power can put downward pressure on everyone’s utility bills, noted Chris Harto, a senior policy analyst at Consumer Reports who specializes in energy and transportation. “Conserving energy is almost always cheaper than building new infrastructure to supply increasing demand,” he noted in a recent article. “Unfortunately, the premature elimination of energy efficiency programs can have the opposite effect, potentially increasing utility bills for all Americans.”

Garrison noted that Massachusetts utility rates are currently around $0.32 per kilowatt hour and rising about 3% annually. But solar costs are around $0.133 per kilowatt over the system’s 25-year lifespan — approximately 58% cheaper than the current utility rate.

“It’s especially important to build solar energy on your homes or your businesses because then your energy costs are locked in,” Peterkin added. “You’re not subject to increasing rates.”

The team at PV Squared, a worker-owned cooperative.

The team at PV Squared, a worker-owned cooperative.

As a workers’ cooperative, he explained, about 30 PV Squared employees own the company together.

“And the mission that we share — which is that we share the success together — has driven us to grow and increase employment priorities in the renewable energy sector and share the success with as many people as possible,” he said, while helping clients ranging from homeowners to factories to nonprofits like the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, for which it recently completed a major project.

“With this recent legislation and recent treasury guidelines, there are definitely challenges that make it harder for regular people to achieve energy independence,” Peterkin told BusinessWest. “But the core of it is still so strong. We’re optimistic about our business because people need to lower their energy costs, and this is the cheapest and best way to do it. So we see a bright future ahead.”

 

Shine On

Northeast Solar performs mostly residential work, with a few commercial projects mixed in. And Garrison noted that Massachusetts homeowners can still take advantage of a $1,000 state tax credit.

“The state has also maintained, with the utilities, a net metering policy. That’s where, if you export your power, you get that credit back to your bill. That’s an important part of solar. If you didn’t have that way of storing those energy dollars so you could use them later, solar would be a lot different.”

While incentives have no doubt drawn many customers to the solar side, Garrison said he relies on educating them with the savings figures.

“It’s going to take a while, and we’re going to have to go through that curve of education. But when you put solar on your roof of your home, you are fixing the cost of your electricity going forward. We call it the levelized cost of energy. You don’t have to worry about the fluctuations in energy, and you increase the home value right off the bat by putting solar on it.

“We try to get people to understand that they have an option to control their own energy, and solar is the cheapest form of energy you can buy,” he added before waxing philosophical about the power of the sun.

“It really is a simple technology that people just don’t fully understand. All the energy that we use on this planet, every bit of it, from the oil, gas, and everything else, all of it is derived from the sun. Without that power plant we have out there, we wouldn’t have any of it, because oil was created by the original plants. We’re just cutting out the middle.”

Elm Electrical Advances in the Realm of Robotics

By
A robotic palletizer tackles a load of boxes.
Special Coverage Technology

Armed with Automation

A robotic palletizer tackles a load of boxes.

A robotic palletizer tackles a load of boxes.

 

No one likes loading boxes onto a pallet. But machines don’t seem to mind.

Mike Holmberg noted as much as he pointed to a neatly palletized pile of boxes from a liquor distributor. In a non-automated facility, he said, someone would be loading those by hand.

“They’re making the different spirits, and then they put them in a bottle, put the bottle inside a case, then the case comes down a conveyor, and some person is picking up each one of these, and they’re stacking it in this stack, all day long. It’s not a fun job,” said Holmberg, senior vice president at Elm Electrical in Westfield.

“So we developed a solution for a robotic palletizer,” he said, pointing to the robotic arm and related equipment on Elm’s engineering floor. “It will now take the box as it’s coming off the conveyor, pick it up, and build this pallet. That’s called robotic palletizing.

“It’s a huge labor saver. And it’s about safety, too. It’s backbreaking. And it’s also work that people don’t want, so they don’t last. And in today’s day and age, it’s hard to find employees,” he went on. “Customers, manufacturers in particular, are having difficulty keeping those kinds of jobs filled. You’ve got to train them, they have to go through all the safety protocols, and then they come in and work for a few days and go, ‘hey, I don’t want to do this,’ and they’re out of here. Now you have to start over.”

On this recent afternoon, Holmberg led BusinessWest on a tour of the floor where it builds, programs, tests, and demonstrates robotic equipment in a growing automation division that serves clients in a number of fields.

“We essentially procure robotic arms from them, and then we integrate them. We do the programming, and we come up with the end-of-arm tool, which is like the robot’s hand. We develop that solution, and then we teach the robot to do whatever task it needs to do.”

Elm Electrical’s journey into automation was gradual, he explained, as the company originally specialized in electrical contracting and eventually moved into programmable logic controller (PLC) systems, which automate and control electromechanical processes, becoming a Rockwell Automation integrator.

“We integrated their product, and we use their product to develop solutions. And over the years, we’ve morphed into supporting different market segments, whether it’s water or wastewater, food and beverage, machining, material handling. And as automation started to grow, we started to get involved in robotics,” Holmberg explained.

To that end, Elm is an authorized FANUC robotics integrator, partnering with FANUC, a global leader in robotics and automation products.

“They make the robotic arms — that’s an arm that’s programmed to pick and place and move things. So we essentially procure robotic arms from them, and then we integrate them. We do the programming, and we come up with the end-of-arm tool, which is like the robot’s hand. We develop that solution, and then we teach the robot to do whatever task it needs to do.”

This FANUC robotic arm is set up to demonstrate its capabilities for an Elm Electrical client that makes wine racks.

This FANUC robotic arm is set up to demonstrate its capabilities for an Elm Electrical client that makes wine racks.

One arm on display was being used to nail together components of a wine rack. “The wood gets put down in this fixture, and now the robot holding the nail gun can go and build this for them,” Holmberg said. “And so you can rotate this on a table, rotate the next one in, build the next one. That frees the operator up from doing this tedious task all day to focus on quality control or doing some other portion of the business — more high-value tasks.”

 

Behind the Scenes

Holmberg noted that he brings that arm to trade shows to demonstrate opportunities for robotics.

“Behind the scenes, there’s a controller, which is essentially a computer that’s controlling that robot, telling it what to do,” he said, pointing out the physical capabilities of the arm and potential tools that can be attached to it. “There’s a motor in each one of those, and it can move in six different directions — it can spin, or it can move forward and backward. And those little motors have to be controlled.

“So we build control panels to hold all those controls, and we give the operator a touchscreen interface to make it easier to operate. Behind the scenes, here at Elm, we wire this; we put in all the technology to make that robot run. We design the control panel, we’ll connect it to the robot, then our engineers will program it to make it work.”

The robots can also be “set up for vision,” as he explained by using a set of multi-colored dice, which the arm can sort.

“Let’s say I want all the blue colors to be picked up. Well, it’ll roll them until it sees a blue color, and then it’ll pick it up and put the blue over here. That’s to show that, in the world of automation, there are times where random parts are coming down a conveyor, and I need to pick those random parts up. That illustrates to a customer that we can do vision-guided robotics. There are industries that would support.”

Whatever the capability, Holmberg continued, “we do all the programming, we do all the testing here, and then we take it to their site, install it, and then train their operators. We do the whole thing.”

While there has always been negative talk about robots replacing workers, Holmberg said this technology can be a positive for both employers and employees.

“Automation sometimes can be a taboo thing because people say, ‘well, it’s eliminating jobs.’ But in some cases, it’s creating opportunities for clients that can’t find laborers to do the work anymore. So in some instances, without automation, they’re not going to survive because they can’t do the work. This allows companies to be able to differentiate themselves and do things less expensively because they can do things faster. This doesn’t take a break, doesn’t go home sick, it doesn’t do any of that stuff because it’s running all the time.

“But I also look at it as an advancement for the employee,” he went on. “If I’m the employee that was doing that tedious task of picking something up and placing the round peg in the round hole all day long, now I get to operate the robot that’s doing that. And maybe I’m operating several robots. So I’m able to achieve a higher value at a job by learning the robotics, learning those skills, and now I have a much different career.

“I envision it as creating opportunities for people in the technology space. If they’re operating the robots, they get a little higher-tech job, and it’s much easier than the backbreaking work they were doing before.”

“So I envision it as creating opportunities for people in the technology space,” he added. “If they’re operating the robots, they get a little higher-tech job, and it’s much easier than the backbreaking work they were doing before.”

 

Complete Package

Holmberg explained that Elm Electrical has long operated as a four-legged stool, so to speak — its construction division (the main business, which launched the company), an automation group, a service group that provides 24/7 support service for companies, and its control panel business.

“So, ideally, we like to sell a solution that has all four of the legs in the stool. If we can sell an automation solution where we get the after-market support service, that’s great. If we can do our installation, our construction group can install it and put it in place. And if it has control panels in it, now we’ve sold all four legs of the stool. That’s what we try to do.”

Most electrical contractors don’t offer all four niches, he added. “Typically, they would have the service business unit and the contracting division, but they don’t have a panel shop where they build the control panels; they would typically farm that work out. And most integrators doing the automation work like we do, that’s all they do, and they would hire an electrical contractor to do the installation. So it’s rare to find somebody that has all four legs and be able to supply that complete turnkey solution.”

While automation is a growth industry, he added, it also requires significant investment up front, which can be a challenge for potential clients.

“There’s not a manufacturing facility that can’t leverage automation. They want to do something to make their job easier and to make their products faster. They want to open up capacity. They want to make it higher-quality. Now, whether or not they can afford to do that is the next question. Do they have the capital to do that? That’s an investment.”

He acknowledged that further growth is complicated by uncertainty in manufacturing around the economy, tariff impacts, and other factors, but the overall potential remains.

“I feel like automation is a place to be. Think about it — today, everybody wants something now, they want it tomorrow, they don’t want to wait. You can order something on Amazon, and it’s delivered that day,” Holmberg said. “That mindset means you’ve got to build it faster, you’ve got to have it ready faster — and all that is going to take automation.”

At the end of the day, he told BusinessWest, “we want to help customers solve their problems. That’s what we hope to do. We want to develop solutions. That’s the business we’re in — developing solutions and helping customers solve a problem.”

And those customers aren’t choosing from pre-designed models, he added. “Everything we do is custom. We develop it for you. It ends up being your solution for your project. So we like to be a partner with our clients. That’s how we get more work — by doing good things for good people.”

Many West Side Stories Are Converging

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Eileen LaMountain has been managing the giant slide at the Big E for nearly 40 years.
Community Spotlight Special Coverage

Community Spotlight

Eileen LaMountain has been managing the giant slide at the Big E for nearly 40 years.

Eileen LaMountain has been managing the giant slide at the Big E for nearly 40 years.

 

Eileen LaMountain says she’s getting too old to handle the waxing duties at the Big E’s Giant Slide, so she leaves that to her younger co-workers.

That waxing detail generally involves the upper portions of the 46-foot-high attraction, she noted, followed by repeated runs down the slide to spread the wax across its full length.

“That’s why I tell them to hire young people,” she said with a laugh. “A lot of the people I have are not that young, and they can’t go back and forth 10 times.”

But she still handles every other duty involved with managing that popular attraction, which she’s been doing since 1987. She essentially took over for her husband, who had done it the previous five years before moving over to handle admissions, which he did until he officially retired last year after working 58 years at the Big E.

The LaMountains are prime examples of area residents who return each year to work the 17-day fair and become part of a workforce of more than 1,000 people, said Gene Cassidy, president and CEO of Eastern States Exposition.

“Pre-COVID, we retained about 90% of our staff, and post-COVID, we retain about 80% of our staff,” he explained, adding that the fair needs to hire about 200 people for this year’s edition — to handle assignments ranging from parking lot attendant to landscaper to cashier — and is well on its way to doing so.

“I was all in favor of knocking it down originally and building something nice and new and modern. But on the other hand, that’s more expensive. Maybe we can do it with a remodel, but this is probably the last time in my lifetime that we’ll build a police station, so we want to do it right and give them what they need.”

Assembling the workforce is one of the many storylines for the 110th edition of the fair, which will start Sept. 12 and have a very difficult act to follow.

Indeed, 2024 was a banner year for the Big E. Attendance records were set (1,633,937 people came through the gates, breaking the previous mark by seven-tenths of a percentage point) and it was the fair’s most profitable year ever, with more than $6 million in net income.

“And all $6 million will be put into the facility,” Cassidy said, adding quickly that it will make just a very small dent in what he estimates to be $250 million in deferred maintenance on grounds dominated by buildings more 100 years old.

The Big E’s new season is one of many storylines unfolding in West Springfield. Others include:

• Movement toward creation of a new police station at the site of the former Walgreens location on Route 20, which was acquired by the city. A preliminary study by a design team will determine whether the best course is to renovate the facility, just a few feet from City Hall, where the police are currently headquartered, or demolish it and build new, Mayor Will Reichelt said;

• Ongoing infrastructure work on both of the city’s main retail arteries — Memorial Avenue and Riverdale Street — with the former entering the “final stretch,” as Reichelt called it, and the latter in its earlier stages;

• Little movement to create new housing despite critical need, said the mayor, citing a lack of developable land, the high cost of building, and the relative scarcity of funding assistance from the state as the primary reasons why. There is an 11-unit subdivision in the works off Piper Road, as well as 40 to 50 over-55 condos now under construction off Birnie Avenue and continued talk of new housing at the site of a former nursing home off Route 20, but little else on the drawing board;

• More new development on Riverdale Street, which is in a seemingly constant state of change, including the demolition of a few older hotels, including a large portion of the Clarion, and plans to build new ones, as well as a new Balise Honda store taking shape in the parking lot of the existing facility (more on this later);

• A new breakfast and lunch restaurant, the Roundabout, at the Route 20 and Elm Street rotary, another sign, said Reichelt, of how investments in that area, which also include new sidewalks, lighting, and other improvements, are paying dividends in the form of new businesses; and

• Preliminary discussions about creation of a new master plan for the city, one that will provide a blueprint to take the community to 2050 and beyond.

“Our master plan is 16 years old now, give or take, and we’re finishing up a lot of what’s in it,” the mayor explained. “We want to look out 25 years — not to predict the future, but to examine what the retail world will look like, for example, and whether we’re ready for potential changes that could impact Riverdale Street.”

For this latest installment of its Community Spotlight series, BusinessWest takes an in-depth look at the many converging West Side stories.

Alex Balise says the new Balise Honda store will better serve customers.

Alex Balise says the new Balise Honda store will better serve customers.

 

Progress Report

Reichelt noted that West Springfield is perhaps the last city in Western Mass. that still has its police station within City Hall — a throwback to when this was a much smaller community, but a situation that has lingered for decades as the city has searched for a suitable site.

It found one when Walgreens closed its Route 20 location in 2024 as part of a larger scaling-back initiative, leaving another question — renovate or build new? And Reichelt can look at two neighboring communities for some possible insight.

Indeed, Westfield is building new on Union Street, and Agawam is nearly done renovating the former Hub Insurance building on Suffield Street into its new headquarters.

“Agawam spent like $30 million less than Westfield’s going to spend” said Reichelt, adding that renovation of the Walgreens, which has a full basement in addition to its spacious retail floor, could be a less expensive option.

“I was all in favor of knocking it down originally and building something nice and new and modern,” he explained. “But on the other hand, that’s more expensive. Maybe we can do it with a remodel, but this is probably the last time in my lifetime that we’ll build a police station, so we want to do it right and give them what they need.”

In either case, the new headquarters will be downtown — which won’t be the case in either Westfield or Agawam — which has its advantages, the mayor noted.

Beyond the plans for the new police station, infrastructure work remains one of the main storylines in the city, especially on those two retail arteries, said Reichelt, adding that there is some light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to the work at Memorial Avenue, which recently entered a new, more visible phase with completion of the Complete Streets initiative set for early 2027.

“Until recently, most of the work has been replacing the water main, sewer main, stormwater … the underground stuff,” he explained. “But now, as you come onto Memorial from the rotary at the Memorial Bridge, they’re redoing the road layout, adding new granite curbing, and changing the actual look of the road to get ready for the new pavement.”

On Riverdale Street, infrastructure work, due to be completed in 2027, is in earlier stages, and will include new sidewalks, off-street bike paths, and some repaving, the mayor continued, adding that, longer-term, the state has plans to improve Route 20.

Meanwhile, the new Honda store at the east end of Riverdale Street is starting to take shape.

And for those thinking the existing store isn’t very old … you’re right. It was just 2010 when Balise Motor Sales completed an extensive renovation of the former Yale Genton clothing store and a 20,000-square-foot addition. But Honda is changing the look of its dealerships, with a nod toward less square footage and a design that features a new-look façade and is modular and flexible, and the Balise store will be at the forefront of these changes, said Alex Balise, director of Corporate Strategy for Balise Motor Sales.

“The existing dealership is fully functional, but we have plans to grow,” she explained, noting that talk of building a new store began in 2023. “And to do that, and better serve our needs, we needed a new dealership.”

She said the new facility will be easier to navigate and be very similar to what was done at the chain’s Lexus dealership further down Riverdale Street in terms of easier access to the service area.

A portion of the existing dealership will be salvaged and used for a state inspection center, calibration services, parts distribution, and used-car reconditioning, she went on, adding that the remainder will be demolished and used for parking. The project is on track to be completed in mid-December.

 

Fair Assessment

Cassidy’s attention to detail, especially when it comes to the weather, has been well-chronicled. Indeed, each day of the Big E, he takes detailed notes about what the conditions were, almost hour by hour, entries that help explain attendance figures.

So when he said it didn’t rain much last year, he didn’t generalize. He went right to the book.

“Let’s see … the second Thursday, the 26th, we had light rain late morning and mid-afternoon, but it didn’t really have any impact on our attendance … that was it,” he said, adding that this rainfall total was a big change from 2024, when it rained on several days during the fair, and it goes a long way toward explaining the record attendance and record profits.

West Springfield at a Glance

Year Incorporated: 1774
Population: 28,835
Area: 17.5 square miles
County: Hampden
Residential Tax Rate: $14.87
Commercial Tax Rate: $30.28
Median Household Income: $40,266
Median Family Income: $50,282
Type of Government: Mayor, City Council
Largest Employers: Eversource Energy, Harris Corp., Home Depot, Interim Health Care, Mercy Home Care
* Latest information available

Those numbers will be tough to repeat, let alone surpass, in 2025, he acknowledged, noting that the weather will likely not be as good this year. But with a shrug of the shoulders, he indicated that anything is possible.

For the most part, he stuck to what is likely, which — again, weather permitting — will be another solid year. He noted that fairs like this one are not entirely recession-proof, but they’re close.

“Fairs represent tradition, and people, at this time in our history, are hungry for that; they desire that,” he said. “And for that reason, fairs tend to be insulated from inflation. People might defer on taking a trip to Disney, but they’re going to come to the fair because that’s their family tradition.”

This explains why many recent fairs have done well, said Cassidy, citing the Wisconsin State Fair, which was on pace to shatter attendance records until heavy rains and some flooding, as one example.

As for the 2025 Big E, like most of the 109 that have come before it, this one will feature ‘new and old,’ a phrase that covers everything from attractions to food to the brews in the many beer gardens.

The ‘new’ this year includes the return of Navy Week programming as a lead up to the nation’s 250th birthday, including performances by the Navy Band Northeast and the Navy Windward Quartet, as well as Collector Car Live: Race Day, a car show featuring race vehicles and NASCAR driver Ryan Preece, and increased ‘strolling entertainment,’ including Fritzy One Man Circus and strolling musician Freddie Marion.

‘New and old’ also refers to the music lineup, which includes everything from ZZ Top and Foreigner to Five for Fighting, Train, Busta Rhymes & Rick Ross, and TLC with Big Boi.

As for the ‘old,’ that would include the giant slide, which has been part of the Big E since 1969. It stretches 135 feet, and LaMountain knows every inch of it, although, as noted earlier, she’s not out there waxing it anymore.

When asked how those applying the wax to those higher areas do so without gravity taking hold, she said “very carefully.”

In addition to supervising the waxing, LaMountain, 73, makes sure the slide is properly staffed (it takes a half-dozen people to operate it) and that the various procedures are followed, including protocols when it rains — it shuts down immediately when drops start falling.

Overall, more than 100,000 people will go down the slide over the course of the 17 days, she said, adding that maybe 9,000 will visit the attraction on a busy Saturday. That adds up to long days, but she endures — and she comes back every year.

“It’s fun. It’s a long day, but … it’s the people you see every year,” she explained, adding that that the money earned over the course of the fair pays for a vacation or some extras, with some going in the bank. “We have a good time, and I would really miss it if I didn’t do it.”

With that, she spoke not only for people who work at Big E, but for everyone who visits each year.

UMass Amherst Launches Economic Development Initiative

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Daily News

AMHERST — UMass Amherst announced the launch of an economic development initiative to leverage the full breadth of the university’s expertise, talent, innovation and partnerships to spur job creation, entrepreneurship, and community revitalization, as well as workforce and small business development locally, regionally, and across the state.

“As the state’s flagship public university, UMass Amherst has a responsibility to serve as a catalyst for economic development at the local, regional, and statewide levels,” Chancellor Javier Reyes said. “Embracing this responsibility creates important opportunities for programming, analysis, and collaboration that can foster more inclusive, resilient, and innovation-driven growth across the Commonwealth.”

As one of the largest employers in Western Mass., the university already has a $2.9 billion direct and indirect impact on the state’s economy, and year-round campus activity contributes millions of dollars to the local economy in wages, taxes, and spending. The spending of UMass Amherst and its employees and students helps to generate an additional 13,000 jobs in the Commonwealth. The university aims to do more to attract more people to the UMass ecosystem and empower existing companies to become more competitive, and spur economic growth through workforce development and new startups and enterprises.

Guided by an executive committee consisting of senior campus leadership, the initiative’s principal goals include:

• Collaborating with communities to address challenges and opportunities around housing, healthcare, transportation, and services to overall infrastructure;

• Advising university leadership on strategies, partnerships, and investments that expand economic development impact with local, regional, and statewide focus;

• Identifying opportunities for university collaboration with industry, government, nonprofits, and community organizations;

• Providing input on and supporting the growth of university initiatives encouraging workforce development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and applied and translational research;

• Offering recommendations on policies, programs, and practices that promote resilient, innovative, and inclusive economic growth;

• Driving investment to the region and across the Commonwealth;

• Supporting strategic initiatives critical to the Commonwealth’s future;

• Creating talent pipelines for study, internships, and employment for the region and the state; and

• Cultivating research capacity with economic development priorities.

This initiative will capitalize on work already underway at the university. For example, the Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS) translates fundamental research into innovative product candidates, technologies, and services that deliver benefits to human health and well-being.

Several area startups incubated at UMass include Myrias Optics, which is developing next-generation photonic and optical technologies with the potential to transform communications and sensing; and Elateq, now based at its own Northampton facility, where it has room to grow while continuing to advance cleaner, greener water purification technologies.

Downtown Springfield’s Pigeon Installation Takes Flight on Sept. 2

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Downtown Springfield will soon bid farewell to its whimsical art installation, “The Odyssey,” which has captured the hearts of residents and visitors alike throughout the summer. This immersive installation has helped transform Tower Square Park into a playful celebration of movement, curiosity, and connection. Visitors have until Monday, Sept. 2 to see the work.

Since its debut, “The Odyssey” has drawn crowds eager to experience the interactive art, take photos, and enjoy the surprise of seeing these larger-than-life sculptures come to life.

In the work, three monumental pigeons circle an equally massive can of Campbell’s soup. But look a little deeper, and the work reveals layers of meaning — from playful nods to Andy Warhol and pop art to questions about accessibility in the world of contemporary art. Created by acclaimed Quebecois artists Cooke-Sasseville, this is the first time the piece has been installed in the U.S.

“We’ve loved seeing people of all ages engage with the installation. It’s been a joy watching families, friends, and visitors connect with art in a fun and unexpected way,” said Michelle Grout, executive director of the Springfield Business Improvement District. “As the installation departs, we hope it leaves a lasting memory of a summer well spent in downtown Springfield.”

Presented with the support of sponsors Charlie Arment Trucking, Berkshire Bank, Westfield Bank, Country Bank, Florence Bank, Tower Square, Deer Park, and PeoplesBank, “The Odyssey” is part of a larger effort to use creativity as a catalyst for community and commerce in the city’s core.

Pro & Local Detailing Charity Car Show to Benefit Veterans’ Home in Holyoke

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Daily News

ENFIELD, Conn. — Pro & Local Detailing will host its sixth annual Charity Car Show at the Polish American Club of Agawam on Saturday, Sept. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is 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, and all proceeds will benefit the Veterans’ Home in Holyoke.

Previous years have raised more than $8,500 for veterans, and Pro & Local Detailing 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 one,” he 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 102.1 and sponsored by other local businesses in the area, including State Line Propane & Oil, EMP, the Springfield Thunderbirds, Cloud 9 Marketing Group, Rick’s Auto Body, Mothers Polishes, GreatHorse Country Club, and the Car Club of New England.

Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament Returns Sept. 8

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — The 17th annual Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament, hosted by TommyCar Auto Group, will take place on Monday, Sept. 8 at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. The event brings together community members, businesses, and supporters to raise critical funds for brain cancer research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Founded in memory of Tom Cosenzi, who lost a courageous battle with glioblastoma, the tournament has become a cornerstone community event, honoring his legacy while funding groundbreaking research. To date, the tournament has raised more than $1.8 million in support of Dr. Patrick Wen and his team at Dana-Farber.

“This tournament means so much to our family and our company,” said Carla Cosenzi, co-owner of TommyCar Auto Group and founder of the tournament. “At TommyCar, community is at the heart of everything we do. We couldn’t continue this tradition year after year without the incredible generosity of our sponsors, partners, and participants.”

Teph Seal is this year’s presenting sponsor, and General Contracting Solutions is the platinum sponsor. Donations can be made online at tomcosenzidrivingforthecure.com.

Picture This

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Pictured: Jackson (second row, just right of center) and YWCA staff.
Picture This

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

 

YWCA Room Dedication

The YWCA of Western Massachusetts recently held a room dedication ceremony and reception for a beloved former employee, Rosalind Jackson, who retired earlier this year after being with the organization for six years as a direct service advocate for its Domestic Violence Shelter Services. In that role, “Ms. Ros,” as she was affectionately known at the YWCA, worked directly with the women and children residing in the shelter. A plaque hung in the room calls Jackson “a steady voice, a kind heart, and a fierce advocate for all.” 

Pictured: Jackson (second row, just right of center) and YWCA staff.

Pictured: Jackson (second row, just right of center) and YWCA staff.

 

 

Recognizing Community Outreach

Chef Tracy Carter, chair of Holyoke Community College’s Culinary Arts program, recently received the 2025 Community Outreach Award from the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts and the Center for the Advancement of Foodservice Education. The national award recognizes a culinary/hospitality program or individual making a positive impact in their community via outreach programs such as food banks, recycling efforts, skill development for the disadvantaged, and other services. 

Pictured: Carter receives the award from Richard Harber, associate director of Instructional Design at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.

Pictured: Carter receives the award from Richard Harber, associate director of Instructional Design at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts.

 

 

Supporting Workforce Development

The Liberty Bank Foundation recently donated $10,000 to Square One in support of its Learn & Earn Workforce Development initiative. Through partnerships with Holyoke Community College and area employers, Learn & Earn participants receive HiSET education support and paid workforce training. Participants who need care for their children also receive access to Square One’s nationally accredited early education and care programs. In addition to this grant and others, the program is largely funded through a grant from MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board.

The Liberty Bank Foundation recently donated $10,000 to Square One in support of its Learn & Earn Workforce Development initiative.

The Liberty Bank Foundation recently donated $10,000 to Square One in support of its Learn & Earn Workforce Development initiative.

Agenda

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Agenda

Women of Impact Nominations

Through Sept. 4: BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for the eighth annual Women of Impact awards. Nominations for the Women of Impact class of 2025 are due by Thursday, Sept. 4. They can be submitted at businesswest.com/women-of-impact-nominations. In 2018, BusinessWest created the Women of Impact program as a way to honor women in the region who are making an impact and creating positive change. There are many different ways to do this. While nominees can hail from the world of business, they can also emerge from other realms, such as the nonprofit community, public service, law enforcement, education, social work, the mentorship community, a combination of these — in short, the program recognizes inspirational women on any level. For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

 

Discounted Big E Tickets

Through Sept. 10: Rocky’s Ace Hardware, one of the country’s largest family-owned Ace Hardware dealers with 50 locations in nine states, announced the return of its Big E ticket presale. Now through Sept. 10, customers can purchase one-day tickets to the Big E at discounted prices at select Rocky’s locations: $16 for adults and $10 for children. Beginning Sept. 11, tickets will still be available at participating stores, but at regular pricing. Participating locations include Agawam, East Longmeadow, Holden, Ludlow, Northborough, Palmer, South Hadley, Springfield, Westfield, and Worcester, as well as Stamford and Vernon, Conn.

 

Instant Issues Luncheon

Sept. 10: The World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts will present its first Instant Issues lunchtime discussion of the 2025-26 program year with Javier Corrales, Dwight W. Morrow 1895 professor of Political Science and department chair of Political Science at Amherst College. He will present “Autocracy Rising: How Venezuela Transitioned to Authoritarianism” from noon to 1 p.m. at 1350 Main St., ninth floor gallery, in downtown Springfield. Corrales, a frequent World Affairs Council speaker, coined the term ‘autocratic legalism’ in 2015 to explain how Venezuela transitioned to authoritarianism by using the legal system to impose autocracy. Corrales is the author of many publications; his most recent book is Autocracy Rising: How Venezuela Transitioned to Authoritarianism, published in 2022. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Lunches can be reserved for $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Box lunches include a choice of sandwich (turkey, tuna, roast beef, or vegetarian), deli salad, cookie, chips, and soda or water. Attendees may bring their own lunch or choose not to eat. Registration deadline for a lunch provided is Friday, Sept. 5. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/instant-issues-how-venezuela-transitioned-to-authoritarianism-tickets-1549642084189?aff=oddtdtcreator to register.

 

Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff Breakfast

Sept. 12: The Springfield Puerto Rican Parade board invites the community to its Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff Breakfast from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Wyckoff Country Club, located at 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. This celebratory breakfast gathering will honor the start of Hispanic Heritage Month with an uplifting morning of cultural pride, community connection, and inspirational messages. The event will include breakfast, music, a guest entertainment act, and an opportunity for networking among local leaders, professionals, and community members. Guests will hear from Springfield Puerto Rican Parade board members Ed Nuñez and Wilfredo Lopez, local community leaders, and Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, who will offer remarks recognizing the importance of Puerto Rican heritage and the contributions of the broader Latino community in Western Mass. This kickoff sets the stage for the Springfield Puerto Rican Parade, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 14 in downtown Springfield. Admission is $40 per ticket, with sponsorship-level options. For more information or to RSVP, email Jayne Melendez at [email protected].

 

Tim Welch Memorial Golf Tournament

Sept. 14: The Tim Welch Memorial Golf Tournament, Tee Off for Tim, will be held at East Mountain Country Club in Westfield. Check-in starts at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at noon. Tim Welch, a Holyoke native who died unexpectedly in November, was a project manager for Tandem Mechanical. He had been a plumber for 20 years and was known for mentoring apprentice plumbers. Welch’s family is carrying on his legacy and paying tribute to his love of golf with a tournament that will raise funds for the Tim Welch Memorial Scholarship, to be awarded to a graduate of Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School who is pursuing a journeyman’s license in plumbing. As part of the day’s activities, golfers can try their swing at the Pipe Wrench Putt, using Welch’s pipe wrench to try to sink the ball. Sponsorships at all levels and raffle prizes are still being accepted. To donate or register a foursome, email [email protected] or visit the Tee Off for Tim Facebook page.

 

EANE Fall Conference Events

Sept. 25, Oct. 23: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced two upcoming conference events to support organizational learning in the New England region. HR Connect: Leading Change in a New Era will take place on Thursday, Sept. 25 at MGM Springfield. This conference invites human resources professionals and business leaders to learn more about HR best practices, innovations in compensation and benefits, and the new skills required for creating compliant people policies. Plus, that will be National HR Professionals week, and EANE is celebrating the many talents and contributions of HR professionals across the region. Safety Leadership for Your Workplace will take place on Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Marriott in Springfield. Attendees will experience a full day of presentations, including Dick Flynt from the National Safety Council, OSHA, certified safety professional Dan Williams, and the team from Protective Advanced Safety Services. Qualified Massachusetts employers can apply for reimbursement for conference fees using the MA Express Program. To learn more or register for these events, visit www.eane.org or email Allison Ebner at [email protected].

 

Party with 1 Purpose

Oct. 4: After a sold-out debut that earned national recognition from Breakthrough T1D as one of the Top New Fundraising Events of 2024, Party with 1 Purpose will return to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Chaired by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, the gala unites community leaders, local families, and businesses in support of Breakthrough T1D’s mission to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D). Guests will enjoy an evening on Center Court featuring live music, an energetic auction, inspiring stories from local T1D families, and opportunities to directly fund life-changing research. This year’s Fund a Cure will shine a spotlight on the Kouflie family and their son Braden, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 7. The Kouflies will share their journey of navigating the daily challenges of diabetes while holding onto hope for a cure, giving guests a personal look at why Breakthrough T1D’s research is so critical. Sponsorships and tickets are available at www.breakthrought1d.org/ctma/wmassgala2025.

People on the Move

By
People on the Move
Paul Lambert

Paul Lambert

Heather Caisse-Roberts

Heather Caisse-Roberts

Paul Lambert, president and CEO of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO), has announced his retirement, and the SSO board announced that Heather Caisse-Roberts, currently the organization’s chief operating officer, will assume leadership of the SSO. Lambert, whose retirement is effective Oct. 1, will stay on as a creative consultant to the SSO and to Caisse-Roberts. Caisse-Roberts joined the orchestra in 2022, during its post-pandemic resurgence, and has since held a series of senior leadership roles — from Development and Grants associate to chief Development and Operations officer and, most recently, COO. Lambert joined the SSO at the start of 2022 after serving for nearly 20 years in an executive position at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, initially as vice president of Guest Experience and Programming and then as vice president of Enshrinement Services & Community Engagement. Under his leadership, two labor agreements with musicians were completed, and an annual Juneteenth concert was added to the symphony season. Lambert will receive the distinguished William Pynchon Award in October, and he and Beth Welty, president of Local 171 of the American Federation of Musicians, were jointly honored by BusinessWest as Difference Makers in 2024. In her previous roles with the SSO since 2022, Caisse-Roberts has played a pivotal role in driving the strategic growth and sustainability of the organization, overseeing development and grants, sponsorships, box office, office administration, and marketing. She fosters a patron-centric culture within the organization, ensuring that the needs of the internal structure are balanced effectively. Prior to the SSO, Caisse-Roberts focused the past decade of her career on fundraising for community nonprofits in Western Mass. as senior director of Development at New England Public Media. She also spent years at American International College (AIC) as executive director of Institutional Advancement. In addition to her work with the SSO, she also served as Development director for the internationally acclaimed Young@Heart Chorus.

•••••

James Kelly

James Kelly

Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced that President and CEO James Kelly will retire effective May 31, 2026, concluding a 20-year tenure of leadership. This carefully planned transition follows five years of succession planning to ensure PNCU’s continued growth and commitment to its mission. Under Kelly’s leadership, PNCU has achieved significant milestones, including substantial growth in membership and assets, the introduction of innovative financial services, and a steadfast dedication to community engagement. The PNCU board of directors has reaffirmed its commitment to the organization’s culture by exclusively considering internal candidates for the next president and CEO. Kelly will remain actively engaged through May 2026, supporting teams, mentoring future leaders, and ensuring a seamless transition.

•••••

Tim LaFalam

Tim LaFalam

MP CPAs recently announced the promotion of Tim LaFalam to senior tax manager at the firm. He provides planning and tax solutions to a diverse group of clients including individuals, estates, trusts, corporations, and partnerships. He specializes in working closely with high-net-worth clients, as well as private equity firms and their owners. LaFalam joined the firm as an intern in 2015 and started full-time in 2016. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Western New England University (WNE), and leads the firm’s efforts in continuing a mentoring and recruiting relationship with WNE. He is a certified public accountant and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants. LaFalam is treasurer of Link to Libraries and has also taken the lead in many fundraising and community service activities in which MP CPAs participates, including coordinating the firm’s annual United Way pledge, South Park Inn program, and Children’s Study Home secret Santa.

•••••

Maureen Buxton

Maureen Buxton

New Valley Bank & Trust announced the addition of Maureen Buxton to its team at the Sixteen Acres office. With more than 30 years of experience in the banking industry, she brings a strong track record of customer service and leadership within community banks throughout the region. Throughout her career, Buxton has held both frontline and management positions, consistently demonstrating a commitment to providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships with customers. Her deep understanding of community banking and dedication to customer care make her a valuable addition to New Valley Bank & Trust as it continues its growth. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she is a longtime community volunteer. Her current and past civic roles include treasurer of Cigars for Soldiers, member of the Holyoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, chairperson of the Chicopee Parks and Recreation Commission, and member of the board of directors for the Chicopee Athletic Hall of Fame.

•••••

Country Bank announced the appointment of Christopher Stevens as its new first vice president, Compliance & CRA officer. His extensive background in regulatory compliance and community reinvestment is expected to strengthen the bank’s commitment to integrity, customer trust, and community impact. Stevens brings more than 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, including his most recent role as senior associate at KPMG in Boston. There, he assisted large financial institutions with their highest-priority consumer compliance initiatives, helping clients strengthen internal audits, monitoring and testing programs, lending reviews, and regulatory remediation. His extensive professional background includes serving as a retail branch manager, a bank compliance examiner at both state and federal agencies, and a subject matter expert in compliance. He has led numerous compliance reviews covering the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act, Community Reinvestment Act, truth in lending, the Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act, the Flood Protection Act, fair lending, and unfair deceptive acts and practices, among others.

•••••

Richard Tremblay

Richard Tremblay

Holyoke Community College (HCC) recently welcomed Richard Tremblay as its assistant vice president of People and Talent. In his new role, Tremblay oversees the office of People and Talent, formerly known as Human Resources, part of the division of People, Culture, and Equity. He comes to HCC with more than two decades of experience in human resources, most recently as Human Resources manager for Prefere Melamines LLC in Springfield. Before that, he served as director of Human Resources at Helix Human Services, formerly the Children’s Study Home, in Springfield, and senior Human Resource administrator at Square One in Springfield. He has also taught psychology at American International College as an adjunct professor. He started his position at HCC on July 28. Tremblay holds a master’s degree in human resource development from American International College and a bachelor’s degree in public relations from Northern Michigan University. He is also a certified life coach and recently completed training with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination in conducting internal investigations and handling discrimination complaints.

•••••

Daryl Johnson

Daryl Johnson

Attorney Daryl Johnson has joined Pullman & Comley, LLC as an associate in the firm’s Real Estate and Business and Finance practices. She will be based in Pullman & Comley’s Springfield office. Johnson has nearly a decade of experience in real estate and corporate law and has guided clients through complex property deals, contract negotiations, and corporate structuring. Prior to joining Pullman & Comley, she was with the Western Mass. firm Fitzgerald Law, where she handled all aspects of commercial and residential real estate, including representation of buyers, sellers, borrowers, and lenders, including. but not limited to, private financing and lending, seller financing, refinances, 1031 exchanges, and SBA 504 debentures. Johnson’s experience also includes drafting and reviewing purchase and sale agreements, leases, and corporate governance documents, as well as conducting title reviews and resolving title issues in collaboration with national title insurance underwriters. Earlier in her career, she was an associate attorney at the Springfield firm Bacon Wilson, gaining valuable experience advising individuals, real estate investors, and commercial lenders on matters involving real estate transactions, corporate formation and governance, and selling and purchasing real estate from trusts and estates. She began her legal career serving as general counsel to Shelton Brothers Importers, a beer importer in Belchertown. Johnson became a corporate board member of the YMCA of Greater Springfield in 2024 and was a trustee for the Springfield International Charter School from 2018 to 2024. She is also a participant and fundraiser for the annual Syrup Stampede, which benefits Empty Arms Bereavement. She earned her bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, from Elms College, and received her juris doctorate, cum laude, from UMass Law School.

•••••

Bacon Wilson, P.C. announced that attorney Alexandre Pereira recently received a 4.8 out of 5 rating from the National Business Institute for his presentation in the course “Estate Planning for Clients with Minor Children.” Pereira specializes in elder law, estate planning, long-term care planning, probate, and special needs estate planning. Known for crafting personalized legal strategies, he ensures that each client fully understands the significance of every document and decision in their planning process. This recognition highlights his expertise and dedication to providing clients with clarity, confidence, and peace of mind for their futures.

•••••

Jean Deliso

Jean Deliso

Jean Deliso, CFP, from the Connecticut Valley General Office of New York Life, has been listed on the 2025 Forbes Top Financial Security Professionals Best-In-State list for Massachusetts. The individuals named to this list of professionals were chosen based on many criteria considered by an independent research firm. A New York Life agent for 30 years, Deliso received recognition for helping her clients in a world in which wealth preservation and protection matter more than ever. Deliso is a member agent of the Nautilus Group, an exclusive, advanced planning resource for estate conservation and business continuation strategies and a service of New York Life. Members of the Chairman’s Council rank in the top 3% of New York Life’s sales force of more than 12,000 licensed agents in sales achievement. Deliso currently serves on the investment committee of Baystate Health and is a past chair of its foundation board. She also serves on and is the past board chairman of the Community Music School of Springfield and the past board chairman of the YMCA of Greater Springfield. She is a graduate of Bentley University.

•••••

Jodie Gerulaitis

Jodie Gerulaitis

Country Bank announced that Jodie Gerulaitis, first vice president of Community Relations, has received the President’s Platinum Award — the bank’s highest internal recognition, presented through its Above and Beyond program. With more than 30 years of service, Gerulaitis has played a vital role in the bank’s community engagement efforts, consistently demonstrating professionalism, passion, and a clear sense of purpose. Colleagues across the Bank recognize Gerulaitis for her collaborative spirit and dependability. She actively mentors peers, supports community giving initiatives, and ensures that both internal team members and community partners are informed, engaged, and appreciated. Meanwhile, her impact spans far beyond her official role. She actively represents Country Bank at community events and leads financial literacy efforts through various programs and committees. She serves on multiple nonprofit and educational boards, including the United Way Woman’s Initiative, Junior Achievement, Juniper Outreach, and the Ecotarium. In 2024, she was honored as a Community Champion by the Worcester Red Sox for her outstanding work in the nonprofit sector. Gerulaitis is a graduate of the New England School for Financial Studies, the American Bankers Assoc. (ABA) Bank Marketing School, and the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking. She also holds an executive certificate in management and leadership from the MIT Sloan School of Management and a Wharton leadership certificate.

•••••

Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury and Murphy, P.C. (DWPM) announced the retirement of longtime shareholder and managing partner W. Garth Janes. The firm has also announced that Jesse Belcher-Timme and Rebecca Thibault will jointly assume the roles of managing partners. After starting his career in Washington, D.C. at a top global law firm, Janes joined DWPM in 1988, became a shareholder at the firm in 1994, and a managing partner in 2018. At DWPM, Janes built and nurtured close, professional relationships with his business clients and represented many small family businesses that are household names in the Western Mass. area, counseling them through challenges and successes. Belcher-Timme and Thibault jointly became managing partners as of July 1. Belcher-Timme has been with DWPM since 2008 and has been a shareholder since 2017. His litigation practice includes business litigation, corporate disputes, and zoning appeals in state and federal courts throughout Massachusetts. He also represents various Western Mass. municipalities. Thibault has been with the firm since 2014 and has been a shareholder since 2021. She concentrates her practice on representing and advising businesses and institutions in corporate and transactional matters. She counsels a broad range of clients, including educational institutions, nonprofit entities, and privately held businesses in various sectors and industries. She provides counsel on a variety of corporate matters, from entity formation and corporate governance to financing, mergers and acquisitions, real estate, environmental, and general contract negotiations.

•••••

Kelsey McDonald

Kelsey McDonald

Kinga Guberow

Kinga Guberow

Michele Alston

Michele Alston

Glenmeadow Inc., a provider of senior retirement lifestyle options, announced several key leadership promotions, effective Aug. 1, that align with its continued focus on wellness and person-centered care. Kelsey McDonald has been promoted to assistant vice president for Health and Wellness. In this expanded role, she will continue to lead Glenmeadow’s comprehensive wellness initiatives while also overseeing Health Services and Glenmeadow at Home. Her leadership has been instrumental in advancing the organization’s wellness vision, and this promotion reflects confidence from Glenmeadow leadership in her ability to foster even greater integration across health and wellness programs. Kinga Guberow has been named director of Wellness. She will continue to lead all aspects of wellness and remain a highly visible and valued presence in the state-of-the-art Vitality Hub, inspiring residents and staff alike. Michele Alston has been promoted to director of Finance. Since joining the Glenmeadow team in 2022, she has played a critical role in supporting the organization’s ongoing financial strength. In her new role, she will lead essential projects such as the annual audit and purchasing, along with the day-to-day operational needs of the finance department.

•••••

Attorney Paula Almgren, founder of Berkshire Law Group, is the author of a new book, Eldercare the Rules — Navigating the Legal, Financial, Medical, Housing and Care Maze, published by Laurel Ridge Press. More than 37 million Americans are providing unpaid eldercare for someone, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Almgren has not only seen it firsthand with her own clients as an estate planning, elder law and life care attorney, but lived it with own late mother, who died of Alzheimer’s disease. The experience so transformed her life and law practice she was inspired to write the rulebook on eldercare.

•••••

Maria Luker

Maria Luker

Hometown Mortgage, a division of bankESB, announced that Maria Luker has been named one of MassHousing’s top loan originators for the fiscal year July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Luker earned recognition as a Platinum Level originator — one of only two in Massachusetts. MassHousing, Massachusetts’ affordable housing agency, named Luker the top loan originator in Essex, Middlesex, and Norfolk counties, and one of the top originators in the state. This recognition highlights her commitment to expanding access to homeownership, particularly among low- and moderate-income families. With nearly 30 years of lending experience, Luker has leveraged her deep knowledge and passion to simplify the borrowing process and support clients through every step of their homebuying journey.

•••••

Jay Brennan

Jay Brennan

Market Mentors LLC, a fully integrated marketing, advertising, and public relations agency with offices in Massachusetts and Florida, appointed Jay Brennan as Business Development manager, supporting the agency’s continued growth in South Florida and beyond. Based in the agency’s West Palm Beach, Fla. office, Brennan is responsible for driving new business, building strategic relationships, and helping align the agency’s capabilities with client goals. He also plays a key role in developing business plans. Brennan is a resident of Miami’s Brickell neighborhood. Prior to joining Market Mentors, he was an account executive at Digital Media Solutions, where he led a successful sales team and consistently exceeded revenue goals, combining strong sales instincts with a creative, client-first mindset.

•••••

Glenmeadow Inc., a provider of senior retirement lifestyle options, announced the nine recipients of the 2025 Age of Excellence Awards: Celebrating Success Over 60. The program honors remarkable individuals over age 60 who continue to make a profound impact in their communities. The nine honorees include Aaron Mendelson, who, after a successful career as a financial advisor, has emerged as a dynamic advocate for education and a powerful connector in Western Mass.; Beth Cardillo, a leading advocate for innovative and compassionate care for older adults, who embodies vitality, purpose, and inspiration; Betty Huckowicz, dean of the School of Continuing Education and dean of Student Success at Elms College, and also the founder of Meghan’s Light, an organization dedicated to supporting the search for a cure for cystic fibrosis, established in memory of her daughter; John Delaney, founder and director of Ride to Remember Springfield, an annual cycling event honoring fallen first responders, whose passion and energy drive the event’s continued growth each year; Bob Perry, who, since retiring from Myers Brothers Kalicka, has devoted his energy and dedication to serving the Greater Springfield area through the nonprofit he co-founded, Friends on a Mission, and whose practical approach and genuine commitment have made a meaningful impact on the community; Ruth Griggs, the driving force behind the Northampton Jazz Festival, reflecting the broader impact she’s made since retiring from her marketing firm and her ability to turn vision into reality; Sabra Ramsdell, the driving force behind the Springfield Rescue Mission and a tireless advocate who sees the potential in everyone and serves with heart, grace, and unwavering commitment; the first caregiver recipient, Betty Alban, a devoted mother, grandmother, and caregiver to her 97-year-old mother, as well as a lifelong teacher, an unsung hero, and a story of resilience and strength; and honorary recipient Rick Sullivan, chosen in recognition of his 11 years as president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council. The class of 2025 is being honored on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at the Springfield Country Club. To purchase tickets, visit glenmeadow.org/age-of-excellence-awards.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Brookline Bancorp Adopt New Name After Merger

BOSTON — Berkshire Hills Bancorp and Brookline Bancorp announced their merged entity will operate as Beacon Financial Corp. and Beacon Bank following completion of their merger of equals expected in the third quarter of 2025. The combined holding company will trade on the New York Stock Exchange under ticker symbol BBT. The legal name of the merged bank will be Beacon Bank & Trust, commonly referred to as Beacon Bank, according to the press release statement. Paul Perrault, chairman and CEO of Brookline Bancorp, who will serve as CEO of the combined company, said the merger will create a financial institution with local roots and a broad footprint. David Brunelle, chairperson of Berkshire Hills Bancorp who will continue as chairperson of the combined entity’s board, added that the new name honors both legacy institutions while looking toward the future. The merger remains subject to regulatory approvals and normal closing conditions. Berkshire Hills operates with $12.0 billion in assets and 83 branches, while Brookline Bancorp holds $11.6 billion in assets with locations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New York’s Lower Hudson Valley. Following the merger’s completion, customers will continue to be served under the existing Berkshire Bank, Brookline Bank, Bank Rhode Island, and PCSB Bank brands operating as divisions of Beacon Bank & Trust. The companies plan a full transition to the Beacon Bank brand alongside banking systems integration in the first quarter of 2026. Both companies’ boards of directors unanimously approved the Beacon Bank name and logo design, which incorporates navy and gold colors representing each institution’s legacy branding.

 

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin Named a Legacy Law Firm

SPRINGFIELD — Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. announced its inclusion in Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly’s first-ever “In the Lead: Legacy Law Firms” list, honoring firms that have thrived for 25 years or more while continuing to demonstrate excellence. Founded in 1969 by former legal services attorneys, the firm has established a strong regional presence with 18 attorneys offering deep experience in business planning, estate planning, commercial and tax-exempt financing, real estate development and permitting, litigation, bankruptcy, and more. Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin represents individuals, family enterprises, nonprofits, and multi-national businesses throughout Western New England and Eastern New York. Known for its practical, cost-effective approach, the firm frequently employs advanced legal strategies, such as grantor-retained annuity trusts and ESOP buyouts, to help clients achieve their long-term goals. A hallmark of the firm has been its work in government-assisted housing programs, not-for-profit law, and other complex regulatory matters, along with a commitment to serving underserved communities. Each attorney actively contributes to charitable and economic development initiatives, reflecting the firm’s deep-rooted connection to the region it serves.

 

MassMutual Foundation Donates $275,000 to Nonprofits

SPRINGFIELD — The MassMutual Foundation has awarded $275,000 to eligible nonprofit organizations across the U.S. through its annual Community Service Award (CSA) program. These charitable contributions — which include two $25,000 awards, 15 $10,000 awards, and 15 $5,000 awards — are given in honor of financial professionals who demonstrate outstanding commitment to nonprofit organizations in their local communities. Last year, participating financial professionals in the CSA program donated more than 8,000 hours of service to nonprofit organizations across the country. One of this year’s two $25,000 CSA donations is being awarded to Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts in honor of Jessica Holloway with the Jamrog Group. At Girls on the Run, trained volunteer coaches lead dynamic, research-based programs that combine physical activity with critical life skill development. Through fun, interactive lessons, participants build confidence, set goals, and learn to manage emotions while forming healthy friendships, preparing them to thrive in school and beyond. More than 400 donations totaling more than $4.2 million have been donated to nonprofit organizations through the Community Service Award program since its inception in 1997.

 

Country Bank Grants $20,000 to Revitalize CDC

WARE — Country Bank recently continued its longtime support of Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) with a $20,000 donation. Revitalize performs free critical repairs, modifications, and rehabilitation on the homes of low-income families with children, the elderly, veterans, and individuals with disabilities; helps bridge food insecurity gaps through delivery of fresh foods; and positions community members toward healthier lives through education and support for chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes. Since its founding in 1992, Revitalize CDC has served about 30,000 individuals, investing more than $52 million into Western Mass.

 

Braman Acquires Fusion Pest Management

AGAWAM — Braman Termite & Pest Elimination announced its acquisition of Springfield-based Fusion Pest Management, effective Aug. 1. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Braman’s ongoing growth strategy. Fusion Pest Management, also a family-owned company with a strong residential expertise, brings a loyal customer base and deep local roots to the Braman portfolio. With this acquisition, Braman expands its residential footprint by an estimated 10% in key suburban and rural markets where Fusion had established a presence. Fusion customers can expect their service to continue seamlessly, with no immediate changes to pricing or agreements. During a brief transition period, clients may see both brand names in communications, but all services and correspondence will ultimately be unified under the Braman brand. The acquisition also supports Braman’s long-term operational goals by improving service efficiency and expanding technician coverage. Fusion customers can expect to benefit from Braman’s broader range of services, including commercial pest control and wildlife solutions.

 

Liberty Bank Foundation Supports Revitalize CDC

SPRINGFIELD — Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) announced a $10,000 grant from the Liberty Bank Foundation to support its annual #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild program. This investment underscores Liberty Bank’s ongoing commitment to building stronger, healthier communities throughout Western Mass. and Connecticut. The #GreenNFit program brings together volunteers, corporate partners, and community organizations to repair and rehabilitate homes for low-income families, veterans, seniors, and people with disabilities, all in a single neighborhood over the course of one day. In addition to this financial contribution, Liberty Bank employees also roll up their sleeves and volunteer at #GreenNFit events, making a direct and lasting impact on the lives of local residents. In addition to Liberty’s support of Revitalize CDC, Dawn Creighton, Community Outreach officer at the bank, serves on Revitalize CDC’s board of directors.

 

Farm Credit East Awards $76,500 to Farmers Markets

ENFIELD, Conn. — In conjunction with National Farmers Market Week, Farm Credit East announced its recent awarding of $76,500 in small grants to 141 farmers markets and farmers market organizations across the Northeast. Farm Credit East recognizes that farmers markets are an important channel for many of the region’s producers to distribute farm-fresh produce to both rural and urban consumers. Collectively, the farmers markets receiving grant funds support more than 2,000 producers. The recipient farmers markets will use grant funds to support marketing efforts, complete market enhancements, or support participating farmers. Additionally, many markets will use funds to improve access to fresh, local food for those in underserved communities and supplement funds from programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program.

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

Friends of The Boat Inc., 11 South End Bridge Circle, Agawam, MA 01001. Douglas Chevalier, 59 North Alhambra Circle, Agawam, MA 01001. Restaurant.

CHICOPEE

Big Riff’s Ltd., 167 Summit Ave., Chicopee, MA 01020. Shawn Riffenburg, same. Mobile food service business, including the preparation, sale, and distribution of food and beverages from a food truck and participation in public and private events.

Saddam Alyaa Construction Inc., 60 College St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Saddam Al Akraa, same. Construction.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Donika Business Solutions Inc., 118 South Brook Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Eric Bocancea, same. Long-distance transportation.

Otis Peak Inc., 44 High Pine Circle, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Maria Tilli, same. Holding company.

FLORENCE

Spritely Networked Communities Institute, 296C Nonotuck St., Unit 3A, Florence, MA 01062. Christine Lemmer-Webber, 43 Northampton St., Easthampton, MA 10127. Technology engineering company focusing on making open-source communication accessible.

GREAT BARRINGTON

Sunshine Coachways Inc., 138A Jug End Road, Suite 100, Great Barrington, MA 01230. Anthony Guntali, same. Transportation services.

HOLYOKE

Lumina Mental Wellness Inc., 74 Eastern Promenade St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Andrew Brown, same. Health consulting services.

INDIAN ORCHARD

Stages Car Rental Inc., 1304 Worcester St., Indian Orchard, MA 01151. Garrett Lumsden, 107 Oak St., Indian Orchard, MA 01151. Car rental.

NORTHAMPTON

Northampton Youth Lacrosse Inc., 30 Hatfield St., Northampton, MA 01060. Joshua Dibrindisi, 342 Glendale Road, Florence, MA 01062. Nonprofit youth lacrosse program.

 

NORTH BROOKFIELD

Beshaw Construction Inc., 8 Central St., Apt 2, North Brookfield, MA 01535. Jesse Beshaw, same. Construction services.

PITTSFIELD

Dr. Momb Fitness and Nutrition Coaching Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Brent Momb, same. Online nutrition and fitness coaching.

Gold Gate Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Rubenia Corcio, same. Gold sales investment.

Science Communication Trainers Network Corp., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Marissa Weiss, 15 Northern Ave., Northampton, MA 01060. Educational and professional development organization that convenes a community of practice for science communication trainers and helps science communication trainers continue to improve their skills and effectiveness within their areas of expertise.

Ten-In-One Inc., 137 North St., Pittsfield, MA01201. Joshua Geisler, 34 Apache Dr., Becket, MA 01223. Art studio.

SOUTHAMPTON

Mill River Archery Inc., 54 Lead Mine Road, Southampton, MA 01073. Gerald Palmer, same. Recreational nonprofit social club formed for the purpose of instruction, training, and competition in target archery.

SPRINGFIELD

Capellan a Rayo de Esperanza Inc., 45 Dewey St., Apt. 106, Springfield, MA 01109. Jose Rivera Fuentes Sr., same. Provides educational and religious support.

Fajas Edge & Boutique Corp., 312 Belmont Ave., Springfield, MA 01108. Adaramise Rivera, 53 Princeton St., Springfield, MA 01109. Shapewear, accessories, and women’s clothing retail store.

Jaley Services & Solutions Corp., 23 Washington St., Springfield, MA 01108. Hudson Junio de Souza, same. Interior painting.

Lifting the Fallen Inc., 227 Denver St., Springfield, MA 01109. Abraham Torres Jr., same. Provides education, support, and resources for individuals recovering from substance use disorder; promotes sober living through structured programs and peer-driven recovery support; and collaborates with community organizations, treatment providers, and recovery advocates to improve housing and recovery services.

WARE

Golden Hammer Home Improvements Co., 344 Palmer Road, Ware, MA 01082. Andrew Labombard, same. Construction work and services.

WESTFIELD

M.S. Truck-Trailer & Heavy Equipment Repair Inc., 139 Root Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Luis Remigio Montero Saeteros, same. Engages in the repair, maintenance, and servicing of trucks, trailers, and heavy equipment.

WEST STOCKBRIDGE

Novo-Simonopetra Inc., 170 East Road, West Stockbridge, MA 01266. Nathaniel Tillinghast-Raby, same. Nonprofit organization established to grow the spirituality of elder Aimilianos.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of August 2025.

BELCHERTOWN

Emileebee Bakes
769 Federal St.
Emilee Boivin

On Point Business Solutions
160 Rockrimmon St.
Liliana Kualapai

Partially Unhinged Charm
10 Lawrence Road
Hanna Dorman Barclay

Plazz Platters
148 Shea Ave.
Chris Peles

Ryan Weldon Electric
376 North Liberty St.
Ryan Weldon

Therapeutic Massage by Kara Macaluso
58 Maple St.
Kara Macaluso

HADLEY

Ellen Shaw-Smith, LICSW
104 Russell St.
Ellen Shaw-Smith

Firestone Complete Auto
366 Russell St.
Bridgestone Retail Op LLC

Generative Consulting Team
200 Venture Way
Andrea Bordenca

Gomes Home Health Care
245 Russell St.
Ester Gomes

Hadley Triad
46 Middle St.
Bill Banack

Hartford Dry Cleaners
440 Russell St.
Hyou Kim

The Healing Zone
58 Russell St.
Howard Brid

Mountainview Auto Sales
71 Lawrence Plain Road
Patricia McCarthy

Trader Joe’s
375 Russell St.
Trader Joe’s

X-9 Games
367 Russell St.
Seth Yeaton

HOLYOKE

CMS Landscaping & Lawn Care
175 Suffolk St.
Matt Cameron

Dollar General Store 19121
2261 Northampton St.
DG Retail LLC

Liv Nu Accessories
12 Hamilton St.
Erica Williamson

Master Heo’s Tae Kwon Do
225 South St.
Hoon Heo

Mount Holyoke Inn
671 Northampton St.
Nandini LLC

Paper City Paw Spa
1 Martin St.
Elaina Deschaine

Paramount Pizza II
2213 Northampton St.
Aydin Oflu

Shimadu Medical Financial Services
575 Beech St.
First American Commercial Bancorp Inc.

Viva Roofing & Home Improvement
78 Rugby St.
Wilfredo Guzman III

Wes’s Spot
18 Brenton Lane
Jonathan Westbrooks

PITTSFIELD

ACG North America Inc.
82 Wendell Ave.
South Street Associates LLC

A. Leo Nash Realty LLC
99 Hawthorne Ave.
Amy Huebner, Brian Huebner

Best Western Plus Berkshire Hills Inn & Suites
1350 West Housatonic St.
Sita Inc.

Burlington Coat Factory of Texas Inc.
555 Hubbard Ave.
Centro Bradley Berkshire Crossing LLC

C&R Development Co. Inc.
82 Wendell Ave.
South Street Associates LLC

CMG Mortgage Inc.
82 Wendell Ave.
South Street Associates LLC

Crea Enterprises Inc.
483 West Housatonic St.
Crea Enterprises Inc.

Global Montello Group Corp.
480 West Housatonic St.
O’Connell Oil Associates Inc.

Hinsdale Block LLC
54 Wendell Ave.
Chelsea Avola, Alexi Sondrini, Skylar Render

HTF Inc.
82 Wendell Ave.
South Street Associates LLC

Jadef Property Solutions LLC
82 Wendell Ave.
South Street Associates LLC

Marlene M. Reil, PLLC
28 Dodge Ave.
Marlene Reil

Napolitano Inc.
10 Bank Row
Frank Napolitano

Riverdale Construction Inc.
82 Wendell Ave.
South Street Associates LLC

SRC Pittsfield Op LLC
140 Melbourne Road
SRC Pittsfield Op LLC

Tapestry Health Systems Inc.
53 Eagle St.
Marianne Creran

Three Moons Rising Inc.
565 Dalton Ave.
Bonnie Lennon

Todd M. Driscoll Realty LLC
1625 West Housatonic St.
Meghan Driscoll

We Do LLC
692 West Housatonic St.
Katelynn Ruusukallio

WESTFIELD

Air Conditioning Two Thousand
88 Notre Dame St.
Bruce Ratcliffe Sr.

Café Zerno
34 Elm St.
Alisa Sychev, Mark Sychev

Center City Service & Muffler
709 Russell Road
Scigulinsky’s Auto Service

Circuit Coffee Co.
22 Elm St.
Circuit Coffee Co.

Entre Technologies
1 Arch Road
PC Enterprises Inc.

Hype Hair Society
225B Root Road
Ceriana Lynn

Premier Mortgage Resources LLC
38 Elm St., #9
Kate Crogan

Safe Tech Solutions LLC
1029 North Road, #1051
Vinca Kozica

Seeyo Nails & Spa Inc.
99 Springfield Road
Xiemei Wu

Tender Hearts Daycare
7 Butler St.
Sarah Stefaniak

William H. Fenton Co. Inc.
174 Main St.
William H. Fenton Co. Inc.

Zeretas Studios LLC
501 Southampton Road
Zeretas Studios LLC

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Dynamic Solutions Marketing
122 Ely Ave.
Dynamic Solutions Marketing

Jiffy Lube
780 Memorial Ave.
Atlantic Coast Enterprises

Lovelo Cycle & Strength
120 Westfield St.
Lovelo Cycle & Strength

Massachusetts Fire Technologies
49 Heywood Ave.
Encore Holdings LLC

Ocasio Services
117 Park Ave.
Ocasio Services

Resting Wings Therapy
68 Piper Road
Resting Wings Therapy

Turning Gears LLC
142 Doty Circle
Turning Gears LLC

What’s Your Brew LLC
1233 Westfield St.
What’s Your Brew LLC

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

Allaire, Kimberly Ann
42 Andersen Road
Chicopee, MA 01022
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/25/2025

Alston-Brown, Keisha Lorraine
18 Aster St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/25/2025

Balzer, Dixie M.
15 Fredrick Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/23/2025

Belair, Michael L.
Belair, Jeanne A.
112 Morningview Dr.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/30/2025

Bonneville, Tia Anne
a/k/a Hayes, Tia A.
182 Northampton St., Apt L
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/23/2025

Cardona, Aisha M.
49 Varney St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/29/2025

Centeno, Angel L.
439 Oldfield Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Daniels, Felissa
136 Marsden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/21/2025

Doel, Kelli Anne
4 North Main St., Apt 1A
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/25/2025

Ericson, Deborah Anne
416 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/23/2025

ESG Clean Energy LLC
1111 Elm St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 11
Date: 07/23/2025

Fassell, Isabel F.
105 Laurel St., Apt. 6B
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Gadreault, Shane
Gadreault, Jodilynn
28A Revere Circle
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/30/2025

Galipeau, Cynthia N.
93 Wheatland Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/17/2025

Gariepy, Jennifer Lynn
241 Brookside Road
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/21/202

Gustafson, Bruce George
Gustafson, Heather Anne
141 McBride Road
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/30/2025

Hall, Keeira
96 Harness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/17/2025

Harris, Melvin L.
146 Brandon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/18/2025

Hartmann, Craig F.
Hartmann, Shannon E.
11 Newton Place
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/28/2025

Hector, James G.
67 Wentworth St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/30/2025

Irons, Wayne Richard
Irons, Renee Ann
116 Tom Swamp Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/28/2025

Kelleher, Robert Francis
Kelleher, Anna Maria
a/k/a Stellato, Anna M.
277 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/24/2025

Labarre, Joshua Patrick
97 Laurel Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/22/2025

Livewell Home Improvement, LLC
33 Laurel Mountain Road
Haydenville, MA 01039
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/25/2025

Malo, Jayson L.
Malo, Stephanie L.
60 Mechanic St.
Gilbertville, MA 01031
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/21/2025

Marrett, David T.
495 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/22/2025

Masslanka USA, LLC
Raufdeen, Riswan M.
23 Tracy Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/28/2025

Mendoza, Hector
Mendoza, Mary I.
91 Oakwood Ter.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/24/2025

Ortiz Felix, Ramona
65 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/24/2025

Packard, Brandi L.
328 Columbus Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/17/2025

Paul, Michelle J.
41 Davidston St
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/28/2025

Perez, Edward W.
266 Woodcrest Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/18/2025

Przekopowski, Kyle William
41 Pynchon Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/21/2025

Rex, Daniel B.
Rex, Doreen M.
8 Cleveland Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/29/2025

Rizos, Antonios
a/k/a Rizos, Tony
2 Geryk Court
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/23/2025

Shartrand, David J.
Shartrand, Melissa A.
28 Chantilly Ave.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Suya, Felix
303 Maple St., #320
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/18/2025

Thomas, Chad Dewayne
a/k/a Thomas, Chad De Wayne
Thomas, Cathy Ann
a/k/a Thomas, Cathleen Ann
51 Wales Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/30/2025

Weeks, Jeremy Jason
40 Woods Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/202

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

BUCKLAND

45 North St.
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $347,500
Buyer: Jonathan Fischer
Seller: Ryan D. Hoar
Date: 07/25/25

12 Wellington St.
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $398,000
Buyer: David Keppler
Seller: Thomas D. Manning
Date: 07/21/25

CHARLEMONT

85 Warfield Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: John Shiels
Seller: Barry Purinton
Date: 07/24/25

COLRAIN

18 Coombs Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Hunter M. Wozniak
Seller: Corey Bruffee
Date: 07/29/25

East Catamount Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $1,625,460
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

10 Phillips Dr.
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Mary E. Edwards
Seller: Elizabeth A. Litskoski
Date: 07/30/25

Thompson Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Mass. Audubon Society Inc.
Seller: Donna Macleay
Date: 08/01/25

230 Wilson Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Bucciarelli FT
Seller: Travis M. Niles
Date: 07/31/25

York Road (off)
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $701,785
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

CONWAY

186 Hoosac Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $441,000
Buyer: Leann McCollum
Seller: Emma Golonka
Date: 07/23/25

Joseph Sanderson Place
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $765,746
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

DEERFIELD

Joseph Sanderson Place
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $765,746
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

99 North Main St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $408,000
Buyer: Robyn E. Gaillard
Seller: Donna M. Carew
Date: 07/25/25

2 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: J2K Realty LLC
Seller: Cumberland Farms Inc.
Date: 07/25/25

8 Thayer St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Anna S. Jollieffe
Seller: Laurie A. Fitzpatrick
Date: 07/24/25

GILL

5 Boyle Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Douglas A. Simon
Seller: Marvin R. Haigis
Date: 08/01/25

17 Walnut St.
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Jessica Leclaire
Seller: Rebecca L. Hobbs
Date: 07/31/25

GREENFIELD

898 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $401,000
Buyer: All In Credit Union
Seller: Frederick G. Nassiff
Date: 07/21/25

918 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Kevin Clarke
Seller: Cody P. Cardaropoli
Date: 07/31/25

27 Gold St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $369,000
Buyer: Anthony Worden
Seller: Hurricane Properties LLC
Date: 08/01/25

65 Haywood St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Nathaniel S. Kornet
Seller: Barbara M. Koch
Date: 07/28/25

66 Oakland St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Anastasia E. Sirois
Seller: Duprey Int.
Date: 07/31/25

142 Oakland St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $409,900
Buyer: Mitchell S. Guevin
Seller: Nyima L. Tridytsang
Date: 07/25/25

85 Woodard Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Stephanie Conrod
Seller: Georgianna M. Wiles
Date: 07/21/25

MONTAGUE

96 3rd St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: 96 Third LLC
Seller: Tailor Ridge Reit LLC
Date: 07/30/25

128 7th St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Emma L. Knight
Seller: Seventh St. RT
Date: 07/25/25

Chestnut Hill Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $362,710
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

Hannabrooke Lane
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Carolina C. Martinez
Seller: Rachael Arnold
Date: 07/23/25

4 Norman Circle
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Anna Morin
Seller: Cecile J. Guilbault
Date: 07/31/25

5 Norman Circle
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Devin Carty
Seller: Barbara J. Delaney RET
Date: 07/31/25

17 North Leverett Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Dbc Real Estate LLC
Seller: Ariel Real Estate LLC
Date: 07/22/25

72 Randall Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Stephanie Keri
Seller: Arthur M. Canterbury
Date: 07/31/25

28 Randall Wood Dr.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Joseph Niedbala
Seller: Joel D. Bryant
Date: 07/28/25

98 Turnpike Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Eric B. Coates
Seller: John Shiels
Date: 07/24/25

33 Worcester Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Natalie Thorne
Seller: Karen M. Killeen
Date: 08/01/25

NORTHFIELD

233 Old Wendell Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Edmund Henderson
Seller: Edward P. Dechellis
Date: 07/31/25

ORANGE

35 Beacon St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Paul Hope
Seller: Jeffrey A. Conrod
Date: 08/01/25

136 Brookside Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $354,000
Buyer: Mpss LLC
Seller: 136 Brookside RT
Date: 07/24/25

415 Holtshire Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Natasha Sams
Seller: Bruce R. Kendrick
Date: 07/30/25

24 Horton Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Andrew J. Filieo
Seller: Randy A. Coffin
Date: 07/30/25

8 Rogers Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $409,000
Buyer: Juliet Mungate
Seller: Winridge Holdings LLC
Date: 07/29/25

50 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Accor Capital Group LLC
Seller: 50 South Main St. LLC
Date: 07/22/25

58 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Accor Capital Group LLC
Seller: 50 South Main St. LLC
Date: 07/22/25

387 Walnut Hill Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Hugo L. Reyes
Seller: Athol Realty Investors LLC
Date: 07/30/25

ROWE

Tunnel Road
Rowe, MA 01367
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Franklin Land Trust Inc.
Seller: Billy L. Hardison
Date: 07/21/25

SHUTESBURY

84 January Hills Road
Shutesbury, MA 01002
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Luna C. Frith
Seller: Donald M. Towse
Date: 07/28/25

32 Shore Dr.
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $251,000
Buyer: Rachel Bittman
Seller: Aaron Addison
Date: 07/31/25

173-175 Wendell Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $142,050
Buyer: Brien J. Goodwin
Seller: Brieta M. Goodwin
Date: 08/01/25

SUNDERLAND

55 Falls Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $585,000
Buyer: Daniel McColgan
Seller: Brian Lempel
Date: 08/01/25

215 Hadley Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Andrew D. Clogston
Seller: Amanda Majewski
Date: 07/29/25

491 Hadley Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $628,000
Buyer: Roberta D. Federa
Seller: Katherine R. Nocera
Date: 07/29/25

499 Hadley Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Yanir Stein
Seller: Laszlo M. Tikos 2014 TR
Date: 07/31/25

18 Pine Court
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $720,000
Buyer: Meichen Wang
Seller: Mary I. Trosin Irt
Date: 07/24/25

15 South Silver Lane
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Donald E. Wysocki
Seller: James S. Bastien
Date: 07/21/25

WARWICK

Buzzell Place
Warwick, MA 01364
Amount: $388,906
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

WENDELL

Kemp Field Road
Wendell, MA 01379
Amount: $127,860
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

WHATELY

Chestnut Mountain Road (WS)
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $129,667
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

188 State Road
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $768,000
Buyer: Jordan R. Viencek
Seller: Sarah L. Overstreet
Date: 08/01/25

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

8 Alexander Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $468,691
Buyer: Adam Rovithis
Seller: Carmen Romeo
Date: 07/30/25

342 Barry St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Devin A. Vanasse
Seller: Robert H. Deyo
Date: 07/30/25

304-306 Cooper St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Lht Realty LLC
Seller: Larkspur LLC
Date: 07/22/25

25 Cosgrove Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Jason Douthwright
Seller: Frank J. Zucco
Date: 07/30/25

146 Forest Hill Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Gina N. Derock-Murray
Seller: Kristen L. Moriarty
Date: 07/31/25

65 Hendom Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Manchester Enterprises LLC
Seller: Marilyn J. Sypit
Date: 07/24/25

89 Homer St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Philip P. Dion
Seller: Robin L. Rushby
Date: 07/31/25

52-54 James Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Musa Bas
Seller: Jose C. Silva
Date: 07/21/25

42 Janelle Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $527,000
Buyer: Gregory D. Bennett
Seller: Cecily A. Santolini
Date: 07/31/25

70 Lealand Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Lindsay A. Ruby
Seller: M. J. Sparrow & D. Spina RET
Date: 07/30/25

164 Leonard St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Liudmila Vasileva
Seller: Cynthia J. Arnold RET
Date: 07/31/25

83 Memorial Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Daniel D. Jacques
Seller: Robert J. Lefebvre
Date: 07/31/25

135 North St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Timofey Kirpichev
Seller: Wilfred F. Roy
Date: 07/24/25

280 North St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: William Torres
Seller: Jake D. McKittrick
Date: 07/29/25

18 Patriot Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $409,020
Buyer: Elizabeth McCuin
Seller: Naf Cash LLC
Date: 07/25/25

2 Pierce St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Raymond Flagg
Seller: Cathy L. Granger
Date: 07/21/25

14 Provin Mountain Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $436,500
Buyer: Christopher Frangakis
Seller: Carolyn M. Bourgeois
Date: 07/24/25

945 Shoemaker Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Daniil Savich
Seller: Manchester Enterprises LLC
Date: 07/25/25

BRIMFIELD

120 5 Bridge Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Corey J. Gatta
Seller: Peggy S. Goguen
Date: 07/31/25

36 East Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Jerry R. Degon
Seller: Sandra P. Morris TR
Date: 07/25/25

133 Little Alum Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $377,000
Buyer: Ashley M. Leveillee
Seller: Robert Petrie
Date: 07/30/25

CHICOPEE

29 Barby Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Sherri A. Quinn
Seller: Renate-Marie Riley
Date: 07/29/25

5 Beaumont Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Norman Roldan
Seller: Dcl General Construction LLC
Date: 07/28/25

64 Belmont St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Donna Montemagni
Seller: George N. Robare
Date: 07/25/25

23 Bemis St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Nicolas D. Abodeeb
Seller: Lisa Petit
Date: 07/31/25

203 Blanchard St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: Colleen Rice
Seller: Caitlyn M. Bennett
Date: 07/31/25

205 Champagne Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Karen M. Johnson
Seller: Virginia F. Nehring RET
Date: 07/30/25

26 Charbonneau Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jessica B. Rodriguez
Seller: Daniel Santos
Date: 07/25/25

72 Dayton St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $145,933
Buyer: Luiza Hopkins
Seller: Fernando J. Carreira
Date: 07/23/25

30 Dobek Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Amanda E. Haluch
Seller: Peter R. Williamson
Date: 07/24/25

77 Ferry St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Skyspec LLC
Seller: Edward Crease
Date: 07/30/25

29 Goodhue Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Louise W. Pelletier
Seller: Donald B. Bean
Date: 07/25/25

635 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Quebec LLC
Seller: Osgood, Tracy D., (Estate)
Date: 07/24/25

52 Harvard St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Emmanuel Nunez
Seller: Daniel Jacques
Date: 07/31/25

19 Hawthorn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $325,500
Buyer: Jaclyn A. Yurkus
Seller: Kendra M. O’Neill
Date: 07/25/25

59 Hawthorn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Erica N. Butler
Seller: Sarah J. Mailhott
Date: 07/30/25

89 Homer Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $307,000
Buyer: Dennis J. Cahalan
Seller: Deven M. Tracy
Date: 07/24/25

513 Irene St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Roxanne M. Rios-Romero
Seller: James C. Desmarais
Date: 07/25/25

749 James St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $549,000
Buyer: Duy N. Nguyen
Seller: Aak Li LLC
Date: 07/30/25

16 Kaveney St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Deborah C. Saperstone
Seller: Steven G. Rivard
Date: 07/29/25

40 Kaveney St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Kyle Laplante
Seller: Dcl Property Management LLC
Date: 07/25/25

57 Larchmont St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Hector L. Espinal-Toruno
Seller: Oday M. Sumaidaee
Date: 07/22/25

29 Linden St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Elsa Pagan
Seller: Michael C. Sugrue
Date: 07/21/25

32 Marble Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Yasmin Santiago
Seller: Iana Shabayev
Date: 07/31/25

102 McCarthy Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Tamara Vazquez
Seller: JoeJoe Properties LLC
Date: 07/31/25

19 Montello Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $309,990
Buyer: Thomas J. Wardlow
Seller: Kmak LLC
Date: 07/24/25

169 Montgomery St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Kellianne Lacoboni
Seller: Sareen Properties LLC
Date: 07/31/25

18 Old James St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Solid Property TR
Seller: Ernest Hayward
Date: 08/01/25

41 Robbins Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Robbins Road Holdings LLC
Seller: Koi 2 Koi Associates LLC
Date: 07/25/25

25 Roberts Pond Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $344,000
Buyer: Justin Landers
Seller: William Raleigh
Date: 07/31/25

196 Rolf Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $238,822
Buyer: Tameka Torres
Seller: Shawn Antunes
Date: 07/29/25

130 Roosevelt Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Vinodh Balraj
Seller: Jared J. Menard
Date: 07/21/25

78 Saratoga Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Alyssa Landry
Seller: Dreampath Homebuyers LLC
Date: 07/30/25

EAST LONGMEADOW

15 Brier Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $467,500
Buyer: Heather A. Kelley
Seller: Elio L. Tonon 2024 RET
Date: 07/31/25

12 Hidden Ponds Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Global Homes Properties LLC
Seller: Peter Nham
Date: 07/28/25

131 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Cioccolate RT
Seller: Melro Associates Inc.
Date: 07/22/25

155 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Michael F. Jacquinet
Seller: Michael Potito
Date: 07/30/25

45 Oak Brook Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Anthony Rabaiotti
Seller: Joan I. Annexy-Lopez
Date: 07/30/25

79 Old Farm Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $988,000
Buyer: Russell D. Fontaine
Seller: Shafil Int.
Date: 07/23/25

45 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Honeyrock Home Buyers LLC
Seller: Silent Enterprises LLC
Date: 07/21/25

167 Pleasant St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Hsiao Yancey-Wei
Seller: Andrew S. Rinkavage
Date: 07/25/25

389 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Rachel Gibson
Seller: Wesley Berrios
Date: 07/28/25

2 Ridge Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Dustin M. McGrath
Seller: Michael E. Vona
Date: 07/24/25

54 Rogers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $360,478
Buyer: Ameriquest Mortgage Inc. 2005-R
Seller: Douglas Brega
Date: 07/30/25

22 Skyline Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $595,000
Buyer: Michael R. Warchol
Seller: Donald J. Anderson
Date: 07/21/25

90 Westwood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Kim Bransford
Seller: Nicole Sokolowski
Date: 07/30/25

HAMPDEN

205 Chapin Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $399,999
Buyer: Peter Sullivan
Seller: Corey A. Chenevert
Date: 07/30/25

319 Main St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: James W. Fiore
Date: 07/25/25

40 Oak Knoll Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: John Secora
Seller: Poulopoulos, George A., (Estate)
Date: 07/31/25

65 River Park Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Michael C. Sugrue
Seller: Nancy G. Stone
Date: 07/22/25

HOLLAND

7 Chaffee Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Daniel F. Smith
Seller: Thatcher Crapo
Date: 07/28/25

6 Hillside Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Kyle Harvey
Seller: John D. Holdcraft
Date: 07/31/25

183 Mashapaug Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Lisa M. Remillard
Seller: Scott Glenn
Date: 08/01/25

HOLYOKE

78 Allyn St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Marie Courtemanche
Seller: Weiss, Robert J., (Estate)
Date: 07/31/25

14 Anderson Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Serena O. Hansraj
Seller: Deborah C. Saperstone
Date: 07/29/25

12 Autumn St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $365,500
Buyer: Stephen Klosz
Seller: Jeffrey M. Chirgwin
Date: 07/25/25

225-227 Beech St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Rcf 2 Acquisition TR
Seller: Jessika M. Rivera
Date: 07/30/25

99-101 Brown Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Yailin R. Barroso
Seller: Samuel Rosa
Date: 07/25/25

49 Calumet Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Matthew Sandler
Seller: Thomas Kelliher
Date: 07/25/25

9 Deer Run
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $895,000
Buyer: Matthew N. Christy
Seller: Steven J. Kravetz
Date: 07/24/25

16-18 Dexter St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Katherine Coleman
Seller: James M. Brunelle
Date: 07/31/25

1245 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $387,500
Buyer: Nathan Reed
Seller: Scott Family Properties LLC
Date: 07/22/25

956 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Ihi Wave LLC
Seller: Property Advantage Inc.
Date: 07/25/25

325 Elm St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Julia A. Torres
Seller: Barran, Joyce R., (Estate)
Date: 07/31/25

52 Hillview Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $363,000
Buyer: Rolando Rivera
Seller: Thomas M. Dunn
Date: 07/22/25

56 Jefferson St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Susan O’Loughlin
Seller: Meghan E. Parnell-Gregoire
Date: 07/28/25

26 Laurel St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: AB Mosca
Seller: Margarita Colon
Date: 07/24/25

37 Lynwood Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Jerry Rivera
Seller: Okn Funding LLC
Date: 07/25/25

116 Morgan St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $404,000
Buyer: Teresa J. Hayward
Seller: Frank T. Bayliss
Date: 07/21/25

6 Mount Tom Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $442,500
Buyer: Andrea L. Callanan
Seller: Stephen W. Oparowski
Date: 07/30/25

43 Mount Tom Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Parker Affhauser
Seller: Farrell, William T., (Estate)
Date: 07/25/25

47 North Summer St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Romeo A. Romero
Seller: Lady Bedoya
Date: 07/31/25

73-75 Pearl St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Yeudi S. Mustafa
Seller: Elizabeth A. Lotter
Date: 07/30/25

141 Saint Jerome Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: House Hack Helpers LLC
Seller: Saje Home Services LLC
Date: 07/25/25

342 Sargeant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Angel L. Mendoza
Seller: Spradley LT
Date: 07/28/25

21 Stanford St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $388,000
Buyer: Nicholas Labelle
Seller: William J. Labelle
Date: 07/28/25

270 Walnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Gloria E. Martinez
Date: 07/22/25

143-145 Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Drew Nalewanski
Seller: Juan Martinez
Date: 07/25/25

LONGMEADOW

104 Ardsley Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,258,750
Buyer: Eric Clemmenson
Seller: Christopher J. Seeley
Date: 08/01/25

216 Bel Air Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Edward Effinger
Seller: Diane M. Corsi
Date: 08/01/25

187 Cedar Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Kiernan G. Mulcahy
Seller: Gloyd D. Kimball
Date: 07/28/25

84 Englewood Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Stephen T. Digiacomo
Seller: Regina A. Walat
Date: 07/21/25

65 Franklin Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Nanhao Zhou
Seller: Ryan M. Bateman
Date: 08/01/25

393 Green Hill Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Lauren A. Poole
Seller: Debra A. Calvanese TR
Date: 07/25/25

23 Greenwich Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $945,000
Buyer: Spencer Hodgins
Seller: James A. Ocampo
Date: 08/01/25

153 Inverness Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Krishna A. Agarwal
Seller: Rhl Properties LLC
Date: 07/24/25

873 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $840,000
Buyer: Jeffrey M. Lynn
Seller: Mark Ditomassi
Date: 07/25/25

103 Maple Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Jose R. Perez
Seller: Lindsey Mathews
Date: 07/21/25

231 Park Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $900,000
Buyer: William K. Cargill
Seller: McKenna Realty Partnership
Date: 07/22/25

295 Pinewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $940,000
Buyer: Douglas N. Lamont
Seller: Beverly Moore
Date: 07/28/25

141 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Jennifer Foley
Seller: R. F. Bellloff & Pamela R. B
Date: 07/31/25

21 Roseland Ter.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Emily Jansson
Seller: Douglas W. Lamont
Date: 07/25/25

Terry Dr., Lot 36
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Mario Cedeno
Seller: Gina M. Whipple
Date: 07/31/25

104 Wheel Meadow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Martin Abrahams
Seller: Schimmel, Marcia M., (Estate)
Date: 07/30/25

1130 Williams St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $755,000
Buyer: Rachael A. Londergan
Seller: Jeffrey C. Davis
Date: 08/01/25

LUDLOW

167 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Kevin T. Brolin
Seller: Christopher Napierski
Date: 07/29/25

5 Armand St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $354,000
Buyer: Karl P. Longto
Seller: Patrick R. Ferris
Date: 07/22/25

17 Barna St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $306,000
Buyer: Jaelen Burger
Seller: Joaquim Simao
Date: 07/29/25

28 Bluegrass Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Haley Rivers
Seller: Deborah Lee Fioravanti TR
Date: 07/24/25

130 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Victoria A. Nakyanzi
Seller: Nkz Realty Inc.
Date: 07/21/25

1123 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Melanie Colon
Seller: Ramona Hottin
Date: 07/25/25

1252 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $1,300,000
Buyer: Hemlock Ridge LLC
Seller: Launa B. Saleh
Date: 07/30/25

70 Eden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Shelbi Moore
Seller: Ryan E. Olearczyk
Date: 07/30/25

403 Lyon St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Kenneth J. Batista
Seller: Tina E. Delullo
Date: 07/22/25

528 Miller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Pro Olive LLC
Seller: Frederick Gamache
Date: 07/25/25

141 Posner Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Alexander Lafayette
Seller: Lafayette RET
Date: 07/21/25

182 Sewall St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Shahid Hussain
Seller: Luis M. Monteiro
Date: 07/29/25

144 Swan Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Joseph Roxo
Seller: Jose A. Roxo
Date: 07/25/25

43 Tait St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Mitchell Guzzo
Seller: Joelene Hackett
Date: 07/31/25

2 Turning Leaf Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $870,000
Buyer: Amy Ashford
Seller: Philip A. Brousseau
Date: 07/31/25

25 Williams St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $304,000
Buyer: Jonathan Dias
Seller: Gabriello 2016 TR
Date: 07/31/25

MONSON

4 King Lane
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Matthew Gray
Seller: Brian F. Lemay
Date: 07/25/25

122 Town Farm Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Theresa L. Saletnik
Seller: Gregory J. Feldman
Date: 07/22/25

PALMER

15 Baptist Hill Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Ryan Wytas
Seller: Pedro D. Fernandes
Date: 08/01/25

55-61 Belanger St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: 55-69 Belanger Street LLC
Seller: Remlap Rentals LLC
Date: 07/22/25

63-69 Belanger St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: 55-69 Belanger Street LLC
Seller: Remlap Rentals LLC
Date: 07/22/25

Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: Cooley Crossing LLC
Seller: Patrick H. Turley
Date: 07/25/25

162 Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: Cooley Crossing LLC
Seller: Patrick H. Turley
Date: 07/25/25

176 Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: Cooley Crossing LLC
Seller: Patrick H. Turley
Date: 07/25/25

King Brook Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: Cooley Crossing LLC
Seller: Patrick H. Turley
Date: 07/25/25

2090-A&B Main St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: 55-69 Belanger Street LLC
Seller: Remlap Rentals LLC
Date: 07/22/25

2094-A Main St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: 55-69 Belanger Street LLC
Seller: Remlap Rentals LLC
Date: 07/22/25

4116 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: James H. Johnson
Seller: Kimberly A. Sloat
Date: 07/22/25

Route 67
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: Cooley Crossing LLC
Seller: Patrick H. Turley
Date: 07/25/25

1295-1307 South Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Castle Bay Holdings LLC
Seller: Elias G. Poulopoulos
Date: 07/21/25

50 State St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $292,000
Buyer: Caroline L. Morin
Seller: Mastalerz, Carol A., (Estate)
Date: 07/25/25

363 Ware St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $397,000
Buyer: Juan Picazo
Seller: Michael J. Senecal
Date: 07/24/25

RUSSELL

712 Pine Hill Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Blake Tyler
Seller: Susan D. Barnard
Date: 07/21/25

315 Woodland Way
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $517,000
Buyer: Kathleen Freeman
Seller: Garth M. Mastello
Date: 07/30/25

SPRINGFIELD

589 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Manuel H. Medina
Seller: Hector L. Rosario
Date: 07/29/25

106 Amherst St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Jayson J. Tavernier
Seller: Shawna L. Davis
Date: 07/31/25

581-583 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Sarah Ricketts
Seller: Clarence Blackman
Date: 07/31/25

184 Arthur St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Paula Wright
Seller: Tatiana N. Yao
Date: 07/30/25

109 Bacon Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Eliezer A. Barbosa
Seller: Corfou LLC
Date: 07/31/25

31-33 Beauchamp St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Michael J. Rodriguez
Seller: Cig4 LLC
Date: 07/22/25

172 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Cioccolate RT
Seller: Jeffrey M. Ginsberg
Date: 07/22/25

1138-1140 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Rva2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

1142-1144 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Rva2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

89 Bristol St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: P&R Investments LLC
Seller: James Fiore
Date: 07/23/25

122 Brookside Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Michele Sessa
Seller: Sean P. Garcia
Date: 07/23/25

157 Canterbury Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $412,000
Buyer: Livingwater Capital LLC
Seller: Randon Mazzie
Date: 07/30/25

49 Capitol Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Carlos E. Santiago
Seller: Jason A. Laviolette
Date: 07/25/25

744-746 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Jjj17 LLC
Seller: Onstar Properties AA LLC
Date: 07/30/25

115 Carnavon Circle
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Heath J. Richardson
Seller: Kevin M. Morrison
Date: 07/31/25

107-109 Carver St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Anthony Walder
Seller: Alan G. Jarvis
Date: 07/25/25

25 Clifton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Logan J. Lacroix
Seller: Springfield Ventures RT
Date: 08/01/25

374 Commonwealth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Sonia S. Aguiar
Seller: Naples Homes Buyers TR
Date: 07/30/25

109 Crystal Brook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $660,000
Buyer: Erica V. Staple
Seller: Grahams Construction Inc.
Date: 07/25/25

94 David St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Toni D. Miller
Seller: Nkz Realty Inc.
Date: 07/28/25

72-74 Dearborn St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $337,000
Buyer: HR Holdings LLC
Seller: Tatum3 LLC
Date: 07/22/25

305 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Tavernier Investments LLC
Seller: Tat F. Chan
Date: 08/01/25

67 Donbray Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Luis C. Berrios
Seller: Jaron A. Kenney
Date: 07/24/25

77 Drexel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Eliezer O. Quiles
Seller: Ajv Investments LLC
Date: 07/25/25

30-32 Dunhill St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Andre Ferdinand
Seller: Edwin Torres
Date: 08/01/25

50 Duryea St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Luis E. Rivera
Seller: David P. Coughlin
Date: 07/30/25

226 Dutchess St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Theresa Raimondi-Rouster
Seller: Jessica M. Winter
Date: 07/21/25

89 East St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Michael G. Horsler
Seller: Lindsey Roberts
Date: 07/30/25

59 Eddy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Luis R. Ortiz
Seller: Bak, Linda Marie, (Estate)
Date: 08/01/25

365 El Paso St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Mahmoud Awkal
Seller: Ralph C. Martin
Date: 07/22/25

372 El Paso St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Genesis M. Aramboles
Seller: Ihi Wave LLC
Date: 07/25/25

93 Florence St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $1,244,000
Buyer: Marcus Florence St. LLC
Seller: Woburn3step LLC
Date: 07/24/25

38-40 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $518,000
Buyer: Kimberly Peralta
Seller: Livingwater Capital LLC
Date: 07/25/25

60 Foster St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Sasha Coombs
Seller: EA One RT
Date: 08/01/25

404-406 Franklin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Nelson Cabrera
Seller: Robert Dumais
Date: 07/25/25

44 Georgetown St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Juan J. Gonzalez
Seller: Xavier J. Cody
Date: 07/23/25

52 Gillette Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $313,000
Buyer: Taylor J. Karlquist
Seller: Laura Sullivan
Date: 08/01/25

87 Gilman St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Christian M. Bourdoing
Seller: Migdalia Colon
Date: 07/23/25

Goldenrod St., Lot 47
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Cl Holdings LLC
Seller: Naylor Nation Real Estate LLC
Date: 07/31/25

Goldenrod St., Lot 48
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Cl Holdings LLC
Seller: Naylor Nation Real Estate LLC
Date: 07/31/25

72 Hall St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Asset Management Solutions LLC
Seller: Venancio Ramos
Date: 07/25/25

112 Harmon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Oskrmy Properties LLC
Seller: Patricia H. Parker
Date: 07/24/25

25 Hazen St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Jared R. Lacovara
Seller: Emanuel Aguilar
Date: 07/28/25

31-33 Hunt St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Adel G. Hernandez
Seller: Y&M Home Solutions LLC
Date: 07/31/25

254 Island Pond Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Enkhtuya Sodnompel
Seller: Nicola A. Cuccovia
Date: 07/25/25

268 Jasper St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $243,620
Buyer: Noemys S. De Fernandez
Seller: Orlando Olmeda
Date: 08/01/25

11 Jennings St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $439,900
Buyer: Deybi P. Feliciano
Seller: Sergey Savonin
Date: 07/30/25

156 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Djonatan P. Oliveira
Seller: Jorge Calcano
Date: 07/22/25

29 King St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Christopher Perez
Seller: Mint Realty Group LLC
Date: 07/22/25

59 King St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Ariana Cameron
Seller: Angelica I. Mendez
Date: 07/24/25

166 King St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $287,500
Buyer: Raquel S. Grady
Seller: Adrian Delgado
Date: 07/31/25

174 Laconia St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Bsa2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

184-186 Laconia St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Bsa2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

41-43 Lawe St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $1,350,000
Buyer: Brvs LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

51-53 Lawe St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $1,350,000
Buyer: Brvs LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

74-78 Leyfred Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Haldy A. Rodriguez-Baez
Seller: Ibis Holdings AT
Date: 07/29/25

82 Lloyd Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Kaleb I. Baez
Seller: Alexis D. Burgos
Date: 07/30/25

34-36 Los Angeles St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $332,000
Buyer: Jonzay Rios
Seller: Suhem A. Soffan
Date: 07/31/25

155 Lucerne Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Bethzaida Santana
Seller: Diana Marte
Date: 07/28/25

34 Luden St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Timothy G. Woolridge
Seller: David R. Sheets
Date: 07/25/25

5 Lynebrook Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $314,000
Buyer: Richard Viruet
Seller: Ruet Properties LLC
Date: 07/31/25

105 Malden St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Andy M. Calderon
Seller: Androniki Baladinakis
Date: 07/30/25

77 Manhattan St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Anthony R. Popol
Seller: Gerardo Rosas
Date: 07/30/25

302 Maple St.
Springfield, MA 01028
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Darren Royes
Seller: Suen, Yu Van, (Estate)
Date: 07/23/25

8 Marlborough St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $273,000
Buyer: Rayne Ruel
Seller: Tyeschiea L. Xie
Date: 07/24/25

68-70 Massachusetts Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $406,000
Buyer: Aliyah Riley
Seller: Ronny Leonardo
Date: 07/22/25

95 Montrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: France Saintil
Seller: Michael T. Rucks
Date: 08/01/25

46 Nantasket St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $1,350,000
Buyer: Brvs LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

114 Newhouse St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $322,190
Buyer: Thi K. Nguyen
Seller: Julio Nunez
Date: 07/31/25

6 North Chatham St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Nythida Dao
Seller: Van Tran
Date: 07/29/25

69 Notre Dame St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Jahaira G. Flores
Seller: Sudan A. Curiel
Date: 07/25/25

168 Oak Hollow Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Giovanna L. Bacchiocchi
Seller: Robert W. Labrie
Date: 07/31/25

267 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Onstar Properties AA LLC
Seller: Winners O LLC
Date: 07/30/25

373-375 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Hereaude Gelin
Seller: 373-375 Orange St. LLC
Date: 07/21/25

93-95 Orpheum Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Harry R. Padilla
Seller: MS Homes LLC
Date: 07/29/25

75 Osborne Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Shumoka Gates
Seller: Mazza, Marie T., (Estate)
Date: 08/01/25

81 Osborne Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: FH Vision Inc., (Estate)
Seller: Carol A. Lareau
Date: 07/25/25

701 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jose N. Sanchez
Seller: Arpc LLC
Date: 07/29/25

77 Parkside St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Nana Prempeh
Seller: Ana Jalowski
Date: 07/31/25

66 Pasco Road
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Shawn P. Antunes
Seller: Alfonso R. Fernandez
Date: 07/29/25

23 Pearl Lane
Springfield, MA 01095
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Michele Strum
Seller: Raymond Douglas
Date: 07/28/25

45 Penacook St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Zaira M. Perez
Seller: Genevieve Construction Development Group
Date: 07/28/25

65-69 Pendleton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $127,300
Buyer: Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Seller: Josephine R. Godbolt
Date: 07/30/25

54 Phillips Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $267,000
Buyer: Carlo A. Ongchangco
Seller: Kmak LLC
Date: 07/25/25

215 Pine Acre Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Aljandro Torres
Seller: Ayouba Mahamane
Date: 07/28/25

12-14 Pine Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Rva2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

18-20 Pine Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Rva2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

41 Pine Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Sara W. Hearth
Seller: Elizabeth M. Falton
Date: 07/23/25

391 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Erick S. Aguirre
Seller: Megan Troche
Date: 07/29/25

156 Powell Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Carmen A. Torres
Seller: Michael T. Beecher
Date: 07/25/25

75 Puritan Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Emmanuel J. Baladinakis
Seller: Tracy Ascolillo
Date: 07/30/25

56 Randall Place
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Evgenii Vasilev
Seller: Liudmila Vasileva
Date: 07/30/25

131 Rosemary Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $318,000
Buyer: Cristian Reyes-Castro
Seller: Maxine C. Poirier FT
Date: 07/28/25

136 Rosewell St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Jason Torres
Seller: Tamara J. Blake
Date: 08/01/25

223-225 Saint James Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Mazal Real Estate LLC
Seller: No Limit Assets LLC
Date: 08/01/25

33 Savoy Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Virgen S. Irizarry
Seller: Lee R. Figueroa
Date: 07/31/25

117 Spear Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Fonseca
Seller: Antonio J. Sanches
Date: 07/29/25

7 Spruce St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $1,244,000
Buyer: Marcus Florence St. LLC
Seller: Woburn3step LLC
Date: 07/24/25

48-50 Spruce St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Milkeya M. Duran
Seller: Torres Prime Holdings LLC
Date: 07/29/25

63-65 Stocker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Bsa2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

69-71 Stocker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Bsa2022 LLC
Seller: Springfield Blossom LLC
Date: 07/28/25

42-44 Suffolk St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Delvin M. Garcia
Seller: Leonor Rivera
Date: 07/23/25

33 Taber St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Manchester Enterprises LLC
Seller: Anderstrom, Kristine H., (Estate)
Date: 07/23/25

425 Taylor St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Hansel E. Monegro
Seller: Johnathan Feliciano
Date: 07/31/25

60 Terrace Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $354,500
Buyer: Nicole D. Tavares
Seller: Maria McNulty
Date: 07/30/25

47-49 Webster St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Yuri I. Lopes-Carvalho
Seller: Juan M. Barrera
Date: 07/24/25

32 Westford Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Larry Bryant
Seller: Raymond Miranda
Date: 07/22/25

2480 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $356,000
Buyer: Jiovanny Vaccaro-Russo
Seller: Jo-Ann E. Supino
Date: 07/30/25

276-278 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Amarilis D. Reyes
Seller: Carlos J. Garcia
Date: 07/31/25

1407-1409 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Charles Warren
Seller: Eric F. Galarza
Date: 07/29/25

81-83 Woodlawn St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $388,000
Buyer: Yamelka O. Grajales
Seller: Juan O. Rivera
Date: 07/23/25

SOUTHWICK

41 Bungalow St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Helena Alves
Seller: Matthew T. Kidrick
Date: 07/31/25

114 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Shaquana N. Burch
Seller: Amber R. Bradway
Date: 08/01/25

61 Hastings Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Emily Lugo
Seller: Pah DE3 LLC
Date: 07/22/25

18 Meadow Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $915,000
Buyer: Joshua Bradway
Seller: Vincent Petrangelo
Date: 08/01/25

345 North Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $590,000
Buyer: Michael Wing
Seller: Joseph Molta
Date: 08/01/25

11 Noble Steed Xing
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $804,000
Buyer: Michael S. Carroll
Seller: Brian Basch
Date: 07/28/25

114 Point Grove Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $121,202
Buyer: Jennifer Nolasco
Seller: Hepburn, Frederick J., (Estate)
Date: 07/21/25

5 Pondview Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $749,000
Buyer: Nathaniel R. Stanton
Seller: Mike McCuin
Date: 07/25/25

7 Pondview Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $710,000
Buyer: Analytical Sciences Marketing
Seller: Josephine A. Cahill
Date: 07/31/25

TOLLAND

19 Beechwood Lane
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Robert E. Kwalek
Seller: 19 Beechwood Road RT
Date: 07/24/25

WALES

153 Union Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Beth A. Peloquin
Seller: Luke V. Akker
Date: 07/25/25

WESTFIELD

79 Belleview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Cindy A. Sklarski
Seller: Steven M. Sklarski
Date: 07/29/25

18 Birch Bluffs Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $332,000
Buyer: Shahzaib Siddiqui
Seller: Richard B. Devries
Date: 07/22/25

7 Brimfield Way
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $802,000
Buyer: Bethany Brackett
Seller: Kenneth A. Morehouse
Date: 07/23/25

41 Christopher Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $745,000
Buyer: Sean Corrigan
Seller: Todd J. Marcyoniak
Date: 07/25/25

34 Coolidge Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $296,500
Buyer: Michael Boucher
Seller: Asselin, Lindsey, (Estate)
Date: 07/31/25

143 Elizabeth Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Ryan E. Olearczyk
Seller: Joan A. Ensign
Date: 07/30/25

24 Francis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Cornerstone Homebuying LLC
Seller: H2 Asset Solutions Inc.
Date: 07/31/25

125 Highland View St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $259,000
Buyer: Anthony Fattorini
Seller: Fattorini, Louis T., (Estate)
Date: 07/31/25

713 Holyoke Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Robin Sheldon
Seller: Lonczak, Rose, (Estate)
Date: 08/01/25

188 Munger Hill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Amanda N. Mercer
Seller: Matthew Christy
Date: 07/22/25

25 Pleasant St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Katie Cooper
Seller: Christiana TR
Date: 08/01/25

159 Reservoir Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Michael A. Sklarski
Seller: Cindy Sklarski
Date: 07/29/25

98 Ridgeway St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Ekaterina Rosario
Seller: Richard D. Roos
Date: 07/25/25

470 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Lester Oakley LLC
Seller: Chase Realty Holdings Inc.
Date: 08/01/25

244 Union St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Round Two LLC
Seller: NZ Property LLC
Date: 07/22/25

242 Western Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Samantha E. Vega
Seller: Michael J. McFadden
Date: 07/22/25

60 White St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $423,000
Buyer: Morning Glory 321 LLC
Seller: David J. Hearn
Date: 07/30/25

WILBRAHAM

3075 Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Mylaya M. Miller
Seller: Qiong SC Shrewsbury LLC
Date: 07/25/25

7 Brentwood Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Catherine E. Cherry
Seller: Joseph F. Perrault
Date: 07/22/25

1 Carla Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $676,000
Buyer: Gregory Rybacki
Seller: Zdzislaw Brewinska
Date: 07/25/25

10 Deer Run Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Courtney L. Gilrein
Seller: Nuno G. Guerra
Date: 07/23/25

1 Ely Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $827,200
Buyer: Dianne Lavoie
Seller: Tennessee Jed RT
Date: 07/30/25

965 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Nathan Scruton
Seller: Stephen E. Debruyn
Date: 07/25/25

Monson Road, Lot C
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $146,000
Buyer: Lauren Scott
Seller: O’Connell Oil Assocs. Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

766 Monson Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Robert J. Gould
Seller: Bradley Bedard
Date: 07/23/25

514 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $535,999
Buyer: Michael Mahler
Seller: Stanley P. Halgas Irt
Date: 07/21/25

7 Red Gap Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $810,000
Buyer: Jonathan Coyne
Seller: Jessica E. Posco
Date: 07/21/25

10 Severyn St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Peter D. Kochanowski
Seller: Mila Janeiko
Date: 07/31/25

33 Shirley St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Nadine Pierre-Louis
Seller: Joan D. Paris
Date: 07/29/25

479 Springfield St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Kai Cui
Seller: Laura M. Quink
Date: 07/29/25

905 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Michael A. Powers
Seller: Deanna Pellegrino
Date: 08/01/25

9 Tinkham Glen
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Hunter Boody
Seller: Kenneth J. Knowles
Date: 07/24/25

908 Tinkham Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $399,000
Buyer: Matthew Connors
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 07/30/25

985 Tinkham Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $381,000
Buyer: Arthur F. Manarite
Seller: David E. Nicoll
Date: 07/31/25

WEST SPRINGFIELD

83 Armstrong St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Joseph C. Siepietowski
Seller: William Torres
Date: 07/29/25

373 Birnie Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Hayden L. Guyette
Seller: Thomas A. Dandrea
Date: 07/31/25

30 Colton Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Padam Gajmer
Seller: Dhan M. Chhetri
Date: 08/01/25

22 Crestview Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Ben Ruddock
Seller: Patrick Darcy
Date: 07/25/25

Field St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Dream Builders Construction LLC
Seller: Valerie A. Ungerer
Date: 07/29/25

10 Laurel Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Krishna Kharel
Seller: U.S. Secretary Of Housing
Date: 07/31/25

20 Laurence Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $431,000
Buyer: Kendra M. O’Neill
Seller: Crosby FT
Date: 07/25/25

100 Palmer Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $6,100,000
Buyer: A&A Property Holdings LLC
Seller: Jdz Realty LLC
Date: 07/23/25

1285 Riverdale St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $1,150,000
Buyer: Kmv Riverdale LLC
Seller: 1285 Riverdale Street LLC
Date: 07/31/25

70 Riverdale St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $359,000
Buyer: Juan M. Santiago
Seller: Igor Zagorodnjuk
Date: 08/01/25

117 Rogers Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Brandon S. Lane
Seller: Kolodziej Enterprises LLC
Date: 07/24/25

185 Rogers Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Mario A. Sotolotto
Seller: Gerard B. Matthews
Date: 07/28/25

34 Sibley Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Clinton St Peter
Seller: Sandra F. Breveleri
Date: 07/23/25

2403 Westfield St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Christina L. Suheen
Seller: Heidi TR
Date: 08/01/25

76 Wolcott Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $345,500
Buyer: John Lavalley
Seller: Equity Trust Co.
Date: 08/01/25

82 Worcester St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Fayaz A. Khan
Seller: Kevin B. O’Connor
Date: 07/28/25

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

102 Larkspur Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $560,250
Buyer: Ryan P. Carroll
Seller: Janet A. Tyson
Date: 07/30/25

525 Market Hill Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $776,000
Buyer: Paul A. Lazdowski
Seller: Sandra R. Madden
Date: 07/29/25

19 South Whitney St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Spring Capital LLC
Seller: Dickinson Street LLC
Date: 07/30/25

15 Sunrise Ave.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $448,000
Buyer: Spring Capital LLC
Seller: Dickinson Street LLC
Date: 07/30/25

21 Sunrise Ave.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Spring Capital LLC
Seller: Dickinson Street LLC
Date: 07/31/25

BELCHERTOWN

63 Barton Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Cody Burns-Piano
Seller: Emily C. Supernant
Date: 07/31/25

37 Brandywine Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Juliana Pacicco-Thornton
Seller: Joseph A. Audette
Date: 07/28/25

Cold Spring Road, Lot 2
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Kristin Breder LT
Seller: Stephen R. Setkewich
Date: 07/22/25

48 Dana Hill
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Jeanne Brodalski
Seller: Darci Cloutier-Ham
Date: 07/31/25

1317 Federal St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $640,000
Buyer: Goje LLC
Seller: Umbra Property LLC
Date: 07/25/25

247 Franklin St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $472,500
Buyer: Michael J. Senecal
Seller: Amelia J. Gancarz
Date: 07/24/25

52 Maple St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Nathaniel Bursaw
Seller: Yoon J. Choi
Date: 07/28/25

290 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: John Dziubek
Seller: Robert D. Overholtzer IRT
Date: 07/31/25

381 North Liberty St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Michael Benoit
Seller: Kenneth R. Lacroix
Date: 07/23/25

136 North Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Nwb Nt
Seller: David Fredenburgh
Date: 07/25/25

12 Old Farm Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $341,499
Buyer: Lisa Hussey
Seller: Christopher A. Browsky
Date: 07/25/25

212 Rockrimmon St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Angela Dellacroce
Seller: Garrett R. Demers
Date: 07/30/25

26 South Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $695,000
Buyer: Tang Properties LLC
Seller: Christine F. Shirtcliff
Date: 07/25/25

17 Tucker Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Kenneth Trabert
Seller: Parmenter, Blanchette, (Estate)
Date: 08/01/25

CHESTERFIELD

Bates Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $974,910
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

Huntington Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $340,368
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

CUMMINGTON

248 Stage Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $425,525
Buyer: Scott C. Short
Seller: Laura Wetzler
Date: 07/21/25

EASTHAMPTON

117 Parsons St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Karen M. Knighton
Seller: Patricia A. Hill
Date: 07/30/25

29 Picard Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Jonathan Fremerman
Seller: Douglas C. Schmidt
Date: 07/25/25

23 Reservation Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Samuel J. O’Connor
Seller: Kim M. O’Connor
Date: 07/29/25

14 Sheldon Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Corrin Moss
Seller: Linda S. Riley
Date: 07/31/25

GRANBY

8 High St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Justin E. Giedrowicz
Seller: Giedrowicz, Cheryl, (Estate)
Date: 07/24/25

51 South St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Amy O. Stewart
Seller: David A. Desilets
Date: 07/29/25

HADLEY

55 Chmura Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Berkshire Hills Music Academy
Seller: Samantha C. Pelis
Date: 08/01/25

HATFIELD

18 Molloy Ave.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Katherine M. Downs
Seller: Scott C. Harlow
Date: 07/25/25

144 Prospect St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $586,500
Buyer: Christopher Browsky
Seller: Kevin Thacker
Date: 07/25/25

West St., Lot 2
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $135,900
Buyer: Veteran Stan LLC
Seller: Joseph N. Peltier
Date: 08/01/25

HUNTINGTON

4 Aldrich Ave.
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $271,000
Buyer: Danielle M. Clough
Seller: Michael P. Brick RET
Date: 07/23/25

Breakneck Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $1,051,547
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

52 Searle Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Glendon Wenger
Seller: Helena T. Alves
Date: 07/31/25

NORTHAMPTON

231 Audubon Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Yeshi Tsomo
Seller: Elizabeth W. Detmold
Date: 07/30/25

771 Bridge Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Hugh Scott
Seller: Katherine Z. Bentrewicz
Date: 07/30/25

Burts Pit Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Damon Lane LLC
Seller: Ggb Mass. Land LLC
Date: 07/31/25

947 Burts Pit Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Karen Morrissey
Seller: John T. Race LT
Date: 07/28/25

294 Cardinal Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $832,000
Buyer: Jamie Greenman
Seller: Andrea Agliati
Date: 07/23/25

60 Emerson Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Alice M. Bernat
Seller: Scott M. Haselkorn
Date: 07/22/25

25 Hawthorne Ter.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $1,173,000
Buyer: Brian Ralston
Seller: Thomas M. Carhart
Date: 08/01/25

103 High St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $670,000
Buyer: Hannah Zahn
Seller: Michele Ruschhaupt
Date: 08/01/25

26 Howes St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Linda F. Matson
Seller: Robert Clayton IRT
Date: 07/28/25

12 Lake St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $231,000
Buyer: Michelle Goulet
Seller: Judith A. Stark
Date: 07/31/25

89 Lake St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Cheryl A. Butler
Seller: Alice M. Miller
Date: 07/28/25

28 Marian St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $640,000
Buyer: Margo Chanin
Seller: Scott Short
Date: 07/21/25

1010 Ryan Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Damon Lane LLC
Seller: Ggb Mass. Land LLC
Date: 07/31/25

PELHAM

210 Daniel Shays Hwy.
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Troy D. Barayon
Seller: Stephen J. Sikes
Date: 07/24/25

King St.
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $693,515
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

PLAINFIELD

54 South Central St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $124,136
Buyer: Bank Of America
Seller: David P. Crowell
Date: 07/31/25

SOUTH HADLEY

13 Canal St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Green Piranhas LLC
Seller: Chenevert Properties LLC
Date: 07/30/25

14 Carlton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Joshua Schauer
Seller: Brett Marrin
Date: 07/30/25

99 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Jamison M. Gates
Seller: Jared J. Mendoza
Date: 07/24/25

8 Grandview St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $318,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Mabry
Seller: Samantha N. Crowley
Date: 07/24/25

48 Hillside Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $505,000
Buyer: Melba M. Ayendez
Seller: David Swierzewski
Date: 07/31/25

28 Judd Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Christine Joyal
Seller: Charles D. Mcgrevy
Date: 07/22/25

28 Judd Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Christine Joyal
Seller: Charles D. Mcgrevy
Date: 07/25/25

205 Mosier St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $376,000
Buyer: Jill B. Juran
Seller: Mary A. Wordsworth
Date: 07/23/25

33 Pershing Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Jordan
Seller: Lcr Builders LLC
Date: 07/30/25

4 Pheasant Run
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $639,500
Buyer: Changhui Pak
Seller: John A. Bacevicius
Date: 07/31/25

93 Pittroff Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $489,000
Buyer: Robert Johnson
Seller: Charlotte Wood-Harrington
Date: 07/31/25

29 River Lodge Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Jared J. Mendoza
Seller: Kyle Burton
Date: 07/28/25

311 River Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Jeremy Carpenter
Seller: Guy A. Pelletier
Date: 07/25/25

59 Searle Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Shawn R. Mulcahy
Seller: Aaron M. Gaudette
Date: 07/25/25

10 Tigger Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Kyle E. Hume
Seller: Natasha Z. Matos
Date: 07/25/25

35 Woodlawn St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $287,500
Buyer: Anthony J. Colapietro
Seller: Geri S. Leporati
Date: 07/31/25

SOUTHAMPTON

390 College Highway
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $499,500
Buyer: Matthew T. Kidrick
Seller: Paul A. Lussier
Date: 07/25/25

108 Crooked Ledge Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Lilia Aliyeva
Seller: Todd M. Helems
Date: 07/30/25

314 Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $134,000
Buyer: William D. Mielke
Seller: Laren E. Mielke
Date: 07/21/25

53 Gilbert Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $649,900
Buyer: Jason J. Snyder
Seller: David G. Breveglerei
Date: 07/21/25

220 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Amanda Bashista
Seller: T. & Cheryl L. Bashista RET
Date: 08/01/25

WARE

26 Horseshoe Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $351,000
Buyer: Ashley D. Langlois
Seller: Jason S. Finnie
Date: 07/30/25

38 Lois St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Justin Grimshaw
Seller: Paige M. Wojcieszek
Date: 07/30/25

32-34 South St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Meraldo Lizardo
Seller: CC REIT SUB II LLC
Date: 07/22/25

WILLIAMSBURG

108 Nash Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01039
Amount: $989,000
Buyer: Kathleen M. Dugas Lt
Seller: Valerie J. Botter 2024 TR
Date: 07/30/25

South St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $596,513
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

6 Valley View Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Carolina Bank
Seller: Tracey McFadden
Date: 07/22/25

WESTHAMPTON

Breakneck Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $1,051,547
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

Burt Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $1,809,633
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

121 Kings Highway
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Sean W. McClurkan
Seller: Patricia A. Jalette
Date: 08/01/25

Reservoir Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $316,641
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

Reservoir Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $847,438
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 07/24/25

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of August 2025.

CHICOPEE

Milestone Funeral Services
159 Broadway St.
$9,798 — Roofing

Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield
566 Front St.
$564,300 — Roofing on St. Stanislaus Basilica

HADLEY

W/S Hadley Properties II LLC
335 Russell St., Suite 10
N/A — Roofing

LENOX

MRG CRW Holdings LLC
55 Lee Road
$4,000 — Create office and conference room with floor-to-ceiling walls in basement

 

PITTSFIELD

Pittsfield Plastics
1510 West Housatonic St.
$3,000 — Underground pipe to feed new sprinkler system

Silver Street Realty LLC
1995 East St.
$15,000 — Roofing

WESTFIELD

14 Coleman Avenue LLC
14 Coleman Ave.
N/A — Roofing

Baystate Noble Hospital
115 West Silver St.
N/A — Renovate former X-ray room to create new ultrasound room

Centro Heritage SPE 6 LLC
231 East Main St.
$20,000 — Repairs to exterior wall at Taco Bell

Joseph Chesnicka Jr., et al
19 Airport Road
$228,500 — Build contractor storage building

Falcone Retail Properties LLP
78 Main St.
N/A — Phase 1 of new building fire alarm control panel and devices for sprinkler system

Governor’s Center RE LLC
66 Broad St.
$25,000 — Renovate two existing bathrooms to handicap-accessible bathrooms

N&J LLC
99 Springfield Road
N/A — Renovate existing building into nail salon, install nail salon equipment

Elsie Phillips, George Phillips
420 Union St.
N/A — Space renovation for a spa

Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield
6 Union St.
N/A — three-story former rectory structure including slab and foundation, demolish two garages, demolish shed, parking demolition

Saremi LLP
130 Southampton Road
$129,000 — Open exterior wall for new entry door with sidewalk, demolish two interior walls, frame and sheetrock with interior door

Joseph Smith Sr., Mary Smith
419 Southwick Road, Unit 1A
N/A — Roofing, siding

Victorina Realty LLC
47 Elm St.
N/A — New kitchen hood

 

High Impact, Weather or Not

By
Opinion

Editorial

Rain, rain, go away.

That’s Gene Cassidy’s wish every year when it comes to the 17 days of the Big E, the agricultural fair that will celebrate its 110th year when it kicks off next week.

That’s because the weather is typically the most impactful factor in how successful the fair proves to be. After a rainy 2023 dampened attendance (and profits), a largely clear-skied 2024 saw the Big E set records for attendance (1,633,937) and net income (more than $6 million).

As Cassidy, president and CEO of Eastern States Exposition, told BusinessWest in the story on page 10, all of that $6 million will be put back into the facility, which is grappling with some $250 million in deferred maintenance on grounds dominated by buildings more 100 years old.

So, clearly, the success of the Big E is critical to the Eastern States Exposition (ESE), as is the site’s robust, year-round slate of activities, from animal, mineral, and home shows to the annual Hooplandia 3-on-3 basketball tournament.

And that success — and impact — ripples out much further than the grounds on Memorial Avenue. In fact, ESE attracts about 3 million people to West Springfield annually, across a bustling calendar of more than 120 year-round events — slightly more than half that crowd count coming from the Big E itself.

And, according to a study conducted by Regional Economic Models Inc. (REMI) of Amherst, ESE’s economic impact on Hampden County in 2024 was $235 million in gross regional product (GRP), and its larger footprint across New England and New York equaled a record-breaking $1.167 billion.

“The impact of Eastern States Exposition is not limited to the Springfield area, agriculture in Massachusetts, or even agriculture in New England; we have touched 26 states and multiple Canadian provinces,” Cassidy said when the report was released earlier this summer. “This makes us arguably the most impactful agricultural fair in North America.”

The study revealed that the ESE created 8,085 jobs across New England and New York in 2024; 60.8% of all jobs created went to individuals without a college degree, 5,646 jobs were filled by individuals in the bottom 20% of income earners, and 1,310 jobs created across the region supported Hispanic employment. Employment growth was observed across all races, income levels, and education groups.

Meanwhile, since 1995, when the Big E first expanded from 12 to 17 days, ESE has donated 1% of its annual gross revenue to the town of West Springfield each year to build and bolster the Eastern States Exposition-West Springfield Trust. In 2024, 26 groups benefited from the trust, including sports teams, food rescues, and cultural centers. ESE’s overall contributions, including a sizable donation of $370,970 made on June 12 of this year, now total $5,425,220.

At a time of economic uncertainty, that overall impact of the ESE — again, much of it driven by that 17-day fair window in September — is critical to this region, and something to be celebrated.

Plus, the Big E is simply a lot of fun — rain or shine.

Supporting Adolescent Mental Health

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Dr. Nicole Brady

As summer winds down and the school year approaches, many parents watch their teens prepare for major life transitions. Some are getting ready for college, while others are starting jobs, taking gap years, or navigating the uncertainty that often follows high school graduation.

No matter what path your child is on, one thing remains true: this stage of life is full of physical and emotional shifts, and mental health should be part of the conversation.

The late teens and early 20s are a time of major neurological and emotional development. According to the National Alliance of Mental Illness, 75% of all lifetime mental illnesses begin before age 24. This may make early adulthood a critical window for both challenges and opportunities for support.

Mental health concerns among young people may be more common than many realize. Recent data from UnitedHealthcare’s College Student and Graduate Behavioral Health Report shows 60% of college students self-report experiencing mental or behavioral health challenges, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and suicidal ideation or intent.

The report also found that, while 20% of college students said their mental health had declined since high school, only about 10% of parents reported noticing the same. This disconnect underscores the importance of communication and awareness, as many parents may be unaware of the full extent of their child’s mental health challenges and how they may evolve over time.

It’s normal for young adults to seek independence, but that may not mean they stop needing support. Research shows that supportive parenting, characterized by warmth, open communication, and clear boundaries, is a vital protective factor against mental health problems in adolescents and young adults.

Moreover, data from UnitedHealthcare found that both college students and college graduates who engaged in more frequent conversations with their parents about their mental health reported higher rates of positive outcomes, including feelings of support, feeling heard and understood, and strengthening their relationship with their parents.

While your day-to-day role in your child’s life may have shifted over time, your guidance is still essential. You can still be a steady, comforting presence and a reminder that they don’t have to navigate adulthood alone. Here are three ways to help stay supportive through the back-to-school transition:

• Initiate the mental health conversation. Start casual, open-ended conversations about how your young adult is feeling, not just what they’re doing. The goal isn’t always to problem-solve, but to signal that emotional check-ins are important and OK. If you’re not sure where to start, try asking questions like: “what’s been on your mind lately?” “What’s something you’re excited, or nervous, about right now?” “How are you doing, really?”

• Normalize seeking help from a professional. Whether your student is struggling now or not, introduce the idea that support may always be available and valid. Talk about options like campus counseling centers, teletherapy platforms, or local providers. If your child is on a family insurance plan or a student plan, share information on how they can learn about their benefits, find a provider, and seek help. Framing mental health care as a routine, not a last resort, may help reduce stigma and build openness if they need it later.

• Keep showing up for your child. Young adulthood, especially college life, can feel overwhelming. Your persistent presence — through texts, short calls, or moments when you’re together — may offer a powerful reminder that they are not alone. If you notice changes in mood, behavior, sleep, or social habits, don’t hesitate to gently check in.

Whether your child is headed to a dorm, starting a new job, or exploring what comes next, the transition beyond high school is a significant one. As a parent or caregiver, you’re in a unique position to help. By keeping mental health on the radar and offering consistent, compassionate support, you can help them move forward with confidence and care.

 

Dr. Nicole Brady is chief medical officer at UnitedHealthcare Student Resources.

Holyoke Community College Names Angela Cardenas Chief of Operations

By
Daily News

Angela Cardenas

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) recently welcomed Angela Cardenas as chief of Operations in the Office of the President.

Cardenas comes to HCC with more than 25 years of executive-level leadership experience, having served in continuously advancing roles at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) for the past 17 years, most recently as senior policy advisor.

As a career diplomat and public servant, Cardenas has lived and worked in numerous countries around the world, including Nicaragua, Afghanistan, Egypt, Tanzania, and the Dominican Republic. She joined USAID in 2008 as a private enterprise officer and has since worked for the agency as a land reform advisor, agriculture team leader, and education office director and coordinator of USAID’s Young African Leaders Initiative.

In her role as senior policy advisor, Cardenas, who is bilingual, served as liaison to the Hispanic Assoc. of Colleges and Universities, a consortium of more than 600 U.S. and international higher education institutions. She started her job at HCC on Aug. 18.

“I wanted to find a place where I could make positive contributions and use my passion, which is creating the next generation of globally minded leaders,” Cardenas said. “I am happy to continue my work in higher education and look forward to working for an institution that aligns with my personal values.”

Cardenas holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Texas at Austin and a master’s degree in urban planning from Texas A&M University. She is pursuing a PhD in applied social justice at Dominican University. Throughout her career, she has specialized in change management, policy creation, strategy development, grant and contract design and management, fund development, and financial management.

In her role at HCC, she serves as a strategic advisor to the college president and a key operational leader, directly supporting the president, the president’s cabinet, division vice presidents, and the board of trustees, and collaborating with department heads, community leaders, government entities, and other external partners to advance institutional priorities.

“I was looking for a place where I could be part of a great leadership team and work for a transformational leader,” Cardenas said. “I’ve been fortunate to work for exceptional people who make positive change in the communities they serve and been lucky to work with people who want to see you succeed. When I met with President [George] Timmons, I could tell he was that kind of person.”

Bulkley Richardson’s Mary Jo Kennedy Named Lawyer of the Year

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Bulkley Richardson announced that Mary Jo Kennedy, partner and co-chair of the firm’s Employment Law practice, has been recognized by Best Lawyers as the 2026 Lawyer of the Year in both employment law (management) and labor and employment litigation for the Greater Springfield area.

Only a single lawyer in each practice area and designated metropolitan area is honored as the Lawyer of the Year. Selections are based on particularly impressive voting averages received during the peer review assessments.

American International College Appoints Five New Members to Board of Trustees

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) announced the appointment of five new members to its board of trustees, effective July 1. The new trustees are Charlie Carroll, John Falcone, Stefania Raschilla, Rachel Romano, and Rebecca Thibault. These additions bring a wealth of experience in education, finance, law, and business leadership to the college’s governing board.

Carroll is a financial advisor for Edward Jones Investment Co. A graduate of AIC with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, he began his career as a financial planner with American Express. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with nationally recognized firms, including Liberty Mutual, TD Bank, TD Ameritrade, and First Country Bank, serving in positions ranging from head of Sales to senior vice president.

In addition to his undergraduate degree, Carroll holds a level II certified financial planner certification. He is actively involved in his community, volunteering with Xavier High School in Middletown, Conn., as well as with local youth football and cheerleading organizations, and was recently asked to join the executive leadership committee for the New Haven, Conn. Walk for Alzheimer’s Assoc.

Falcone began his career as an acquisitions analyst at Colony Hills Capital before joining his family’s business, Rocky’s Ace Hardware. Since then, he has held several roles within the company, including category manager and director of merchandising. In his current position as process engineer, he focuses on streamlining operations, developing scalable processes, and advancing innovation to strengthen organizational performance.

Falcone earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Bentley University and an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship from the FW Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College.

Raschilla has served as the superintendent of schools in West Springfield since May 2023, overseeing nine schools and nearly 4,000 students. She has worked in urban public education since 1999, beginning her career in the Springfield Public Schools. Over the years, she has served in a range of roles, including elementary school teacher, reading director, principal, and chief instructional officer.

Raschilla earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Saint Mary’s College and a master of education degree in reading from American International College. She also holds a professional license from the Massachusetts Department of Education.

Romano is the founder and executive director of Veritas Prep Charter School in Springfield, which was established in 2012 as a middle school and has since expanded to include a high school. Before founding Veritas Prep, she served as a teacher and school leader in the Springfield Public Schools and as executive director of the Christa McAuliffe Regional Charter School in Framingham.

Romano earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Syracuse University and a master of education degree in educational administration from the University of Massachusetts. She was selected as a 2010 fellow with Building Excellent Schools.

Thibault is a shareholder and co-managing partner at Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, P.C., where she focuses on advising and representing businesses and institutions in corporate and transactional matters, including real estate. Her clients include educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses across a range of sectors.

Thibault earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Trinity College and a juris doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, where she served as managing editor of the Washington University Global Studies Law Review. She currently serves on the board of the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts and is on the personnel committee of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Each December, she leads the firm’s team in the Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage in Northampton, raising funds and awareness to support survivors of domestic violence.

Cooper’s Accepting Donations, Rounding Up for Foundation for TJO Animals

By
Daily News

AGAWAM — For a limited time, Cooper’s Gifts, Apparel, Home of Agawam is accepting shelter supply donations for the Foundation for TJO Animals, which is located at 237 Memorial Dr., Springfield.

The Foundation for TJO Animals is a 501(c)(3) organization that raises funds to provide resources and support for critical veterinary care and enrichment for the animals at the Thomas J O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center. Donations will be collected at Cooper’s now through Sept. 30.

“We invite everyone to help out the animals at TJO and be entered to win a $100 Cooper’s gift card,” said Kate Gourde, owner of Cooper’s Gifts, Apparel, Home.

Current needs include items to keep the shelter clean and well-stocked, including paper towels, bleach, pet food, treats, toys, and litter, she added. “We hope that, while people are out purchasing items for themselves, that they will consider picking up a few extras for the Foundation for TJO Animals.”

Customers will receive a raffle entry for every item donated to the Foundation for TJO Animals. The winner of the $100 Cooper’s gift card will be notified on Oct. 1. Entry tickets can also be purchased at the store for $1 each, or six tickets for $5. All ticket sales will also be donated to the Foundation for TJO Animals.

“Especially for people outside the Greater Springfield area, it’s easier for them to bring donations here, and we are open seven days a week,” Gourde said. Cooper’s is located at 161 Main St., Agawam, and is open weekdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m.

Each month, Gourde chooses a local charity to receive the profits of the store’s round-up program, through which customers are invited to round up their purchase total to the nearest dollar amount. Gourde will then match 50% of the total collected. The program has donated more than $62,000 to local organizations since its inception in 2014.

“This drive coincides with Foundation for TJO Animals as our September round-up charity, so it’s the perfect time to spread the word about their mission and really help them out,” she said.

CT State Asnuntuck Announces Participation in Metallica Scholars Initiative

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Daily News

ENFIELD, Conn. — CT State Asnuntuck announced its selection as one of the community colleges invited to join year 7 of the prestigious Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI), supported by a $50,000 grant aimed at enhancing the student experience and career readiness within Asnuntuck’s advanced manufacturing technology programs.

“On behalf of my entire team at the CT State Asnuntuck Advanced Manufacturing Technology program, we are truly grateful for the generosity and support provided to our students from the All Within My Hands Foundation – Metallica Scholars Grant,” said Mary Bidwell, the program’s director. “This grant allows students to reach their academic objectives and start their careers in advanced manufacturing. The scholarship dollars they receive help them to purchase personal protective equipment, books, and supplies. As a result of the funding, students obtain their OSHA 10 card. We look forward to continuing to help more students this year with the $50,000 Metallica Scholars Grant award we received.”

All Within My Hands (AWMH), the nonprofit philanthropic organization created by the members and management of Metallica, recently announced the seventh year of its Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI) with its largest grant to date, totaling approximately $3 million. MSI now has a presence in 75 colleges across all 50 U.S. states and the territory of Guam, and is expected to reach approximately 10,000 students.

“I could not be any prouder of our Metallica Scholars. We know that our country needs millions of skilled tradespeople, and it warms my heart to know that our foundation’s efforts are making a positive impact and putting hard-working people on the path to careers in the trades,” said Robert Trujillo, a Metallica band member. “Whether it’s a school visit or a meet and greet before a show, there is no better feeling than meeting our Metallica Scholars in person and hearing their stories of grit and determination firsthand, along with their pride and commitment. It is truly inspiring. To think we started with a few schools and a couple hundred students, and we’re now in 75 schools nationwide, about to reach 10,000 students. It’s just incredible.”

Launched in 2019 by All Within My Hands in partnership with the American Assoc. of Community Colleges, MSI began with 10 colleges focused primarily on manufacturing programs. The workforce initiative has since expanded to offer opportunities in diverse fields for students interested in gaining the skills and training necessary to establish meaningful careers that provide family-sustaining wages.

Year seven also marks the renewal of AWMH’s partnership with the Lowe’s Foundation, which has provided $1 million in support as part of its five-year, $50 million commitment to prepare 50,000 people for skilled trades careers.

Forbes Library to Celebrate Opening of Hess Performance Stage on Sept. 13

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Forbes Library in Northampton announced the opening of the new Hess Performance Stage on the library’s west lawn. The library will celebrate the new stage with a grand opening on Saturday, Sept. 13 at 3 p.m. with an event featuring the O-Tones playing swing, blues, soul, Motown, Latin, and R&B. The opening is free to the public.

The stage is open air with a covered roof and ramped handicap access. It has lights and electricity, and soon will also have a sound system. This project is many years in the making and is intended to provide the necessary infrastructure for outdoor programs and events as well as a new community gathering space. The library has a long tradition of outdoor programming, with the first photographed event held in 1918 when an overflow crowd got together on the library grounds to sing patriotic songs in celebration of the end of World War I.

The stage was designed by HAI Architects of Northampton and built by Campora Construction Inc. of Ludlow. It has a steel structure and curved roof profile inspired by the arches of the library’s building and featuring colors that also reflect the sandstone and granite of the building.

The project was funded by substantial gifts from Marjorie Hess and Rudolph Talaber, for whom the stage is named, along with additional support provided by the Friends of Forbes, the city of Northampton, the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism, MassDevelopment, AARP Massachusetts, and many individual donors.

Debin Bruce, chair of the library’s building and grounds committee, worked tirelessly to see the stage to completion. “We would not have this stage without Debin and all of the generous support of our community,” said Lisa Downing, library director.

Programs on the stage will continue into the fall with events that are free, open to the public, and of interest to all ages. Check the library’s event calendar at forbeslibrary.org/events for more information. The stage and the library grounds are free and open to the public during daylight hours when not in use by library programming. Beginning in 2026, community groups will be able to book the stage for public events as they do with the library’s meeting rooms.

World Trade Center Hero to Speak to MCLA Students and Faculty on Sept. 11

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will host author and inspirational speaker Michael Hingson on Thursday, Sept. 11 in the Amsler Campus Center Gymnasium. The presentation will run from 5:30 to 7 p.m., followed by a meet and greet and book signing from 7 to 7:30 p.m.

On Sept. 11, 2001, Hingson and his guide dog, Roselle, escaped from the 78th floor of Tower One of the World Trade Center, descending 78 flights of stairs moments before the building collapsed. This harrowing experience became the foundation for Hingson’s message of overcoming fear, building trust, and finding strength in the face of unimaginable adversity.

“We are honored to welcome Michael Hingson to our campus on such a significant day,” MCLA Assistant Director of Disability Resources Nancy Rumbolt-Trzcinski said. “His story of survival, resilience, and the power of human-animal partnerships offers invaluable lessons for our students as they navigate their own challenges and prepare for their futures.”

Blind since birth, Hingson was raised in Chicago with a can-do attitude that saw him riding bikes, mastering advanced mathematics, and excelling academically. He earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physics from the University of California, Irvine, along with a secondary teaching credential, before embarking on a nearly 30-year career in high-tech management.

Following the 9/11 attacks, Hingson became a sought-after speaker, sharing his story with world leaders, including former President George W. Bush, and appearing on hundreds of television and radio programs. He has traveled globally, speaking to Fortune 500 companies, universities, and organizations about teamwork, trust, diversity, inclusion, and adaptive technology.

“Michael Hingson’s visit reinforces our commitment to creating an inclusive environment where every student can thrive,” MCLA Director of Disability Resources Cindy MacDonald said. “His message about partnership, trust, and overcoming fear speaks directly to the values we work to instill across our campus community.”

Hingson is the author of the New York Times #1 bestseller Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog & the Triumph of Trust, which has sold more 2.5 million copies worldwide. His second book, Running with Roselle, was written specifically for young audiences to help them understand one of America’s darkest days. His latest work, Live Like a Guide Dog, released in August 2024, teaches readers how to control fear and avoid becoming “blinded by fear in the face of crisis.”

In June 2024, Hingson was inducted into the honors fraternity Phi Beta Kappa at UC Irvine as an alumni member for his outstanding contributions to academia and society.

During his visit to MCLA, Hingson will present “Turning the Tails on Terror in Our Uncertain and Scary World: Labrador Lessons from September 11, 2001,” discussing how people can learn to live better lives by staying focused rather than panicking, even in the most challenging circumstances. He will also engage with students and faculty throughout the day, including a visit to Professor Anthony Daly’s “War, Science, and Society” course.

Currently serving as national ambassador for the Braille Literacy Campaign of the National Federation of the Blind, Hingson continues his advocacy work while living in Victorville, Calif. with his eighth guide dog, Alamo, and rescue cat, Stitch.

Real Estate Licensing Course Starts Oct. 6

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Beginning Monday, Oct. 6, the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will host a 40 hour, 14-class sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real estate salesperson license exam. The course will be completed on Wednesday, Nov. 12.

Tuition costs $425 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328 or visit www.rapv.com.