Day: September 12, 2025

The Markens Group Announces Ownership Transition to Emily Leonczyk

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Markens Group Inc. (TMG), a nationally accredited association management company headquartered in Springfield, announced a transition in ownership to Emily Leonczyk.

For many clients and community partners, this news will come as no surprise: Leonczyk has been leading day-to-day operations for more than three years. She now serves as president and CEO, carrying forward a legacy of success established by founder Ben Markens.

Founded in 1988 to serve trade and manufacturing associations in fiber-based sustainable packaging, TMG’s roots remain firmly planted in that industry. That foundation has enabled the company to expand its support to a wide range of professional, manufacturing, and medical associations, while remaining true to its original mission: helping member-driven organizations thrive.

“This is not a new beginning, but a continuation of the systems, culture, and team we have built together,” Leonczyk said. “Our work is about operationalizing the insights of volunteer leaders and helping member-driven organizations thrive. I am honored to carry forward Ben’s vision and to shape the future alongside my dynamic, hardworking, high-performing, and fun team.”

Markens, who founded the company 37 years ago alongside his friend and business partner, Andy Levkoff, and his wife and partner, Jennie, will continue to serve as an advisor.

“I am so proud to see TMG enter its next chapter under the leadership of Emily Leonczyk,” he said. “From the moment we began working together, it was clear that Emily shared the same principles that Jennie, Andy, and I set at the very beginning: do what is fair, have fun, and put relationships first. Emily grew from colleague to business partner to lifelong friend, and I could not be happier to see the legacy of this firm carried forward through her and the talented, passionate team in Springfield, Massachusetts.”

To honor Markens’ lasting influence, the company has established the Markens Mutuality Award, celebrating “the fiber of connection that strengthens our communities.” The inaugural award was presented to Ben Markens to commemorate the transition, recognizing his visionary leadership, ability to bring people together, and steadfast belief in the power of belonging and mutuality.

As part of the award, TMG will make an annual donation to a nonprofit chosen by each recipient. This year, the first donation will be made to the Mary Lyon Foundation, a cause close to Markens’s heart. The Mary Lyon Foundation, a long-standing partner of TMG, provides vital educational support and community resources to students and families in Western Mass. By selecting the foundation, Markens is not only honoring an organization whose mission reflects TMG’s own values of fairness, community, and mutual support, but also strengthening a partnership that has made a meaningful impact in the local community.

Going forward, the Markens Mutuality Award will be presented annually to a leader who embodies the TMG’s values, Leonczyk said. “The spirit of mutuality is the fiber that runs through TMG and the work we do to help associations build strong, connected communities.”

At the heart of this leadership transition is the TMG team itself, which she described as “the true strength behind everything we do.” The firm is proud to recognize the dedication, talent, and care of its growing staff, she added.

“I could spend hours celebrating the unique strengths each person brings to our success, but you’ll have to join us in person to hear me do that,” Leonczyk said. “What I will say is this: the power of association begins within our own walls. Discernment guides our decisions, curiosity fuels our ideas, and community grounds our work. At TMG, it starts with our team, the first community we serve, so together we can support our association clients with tenacity, purpose, and heart.”

King Gray Coach Lines Offering Free Shuttles to the Big E

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — To accommodate Big E fairgoers that need some assistance getting to the grounds on weekends, ESE has again partnered with King Gray Coach Lines to provide shuttles to the fair from Union Station in Springfield.

The Hartford line offers rail service to Springfield’s Union Station, where free shuttles take guests to the Big E on Saturdays and Sundays. Shuttles depart from Union Station’s Gate 24. ADA vehicles require advanced reservations. Reservations should be made 24 to 48 hours prior to arrival at Union Station. Call King Gray Coach Lines at (413) 593-3939 to make a reservation.

Guests are encouraged to use public transportation and seek alternate parking and routes to the Big E. To find the shuttle schedule and purchase tickets to the fair, visit thebige.com.

Berkshire Bank Named Among Top Charitable Contributors

By
Daily News

BOSTON — The Boston Business Journal recently honored Berkshire Bank as a Top Charitable Contributor in Massachusetts for the 13th consecutive year at its 2025 Corporate Citizenship Awards.

“Nonprofits are the heart of our communities, offering vital support and hope to those facing challenges,” said Lori Kiely, managing director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “Berkshire has a long history of partnering with many organizations to help build stronger, more resilient communities, and we remain deeply committed to continuing that legacy.”

This annual Boston Business Journal honor showcases companies that prioritize giving back to their communities.

“It is with honor that we present our list of the Top Charitable Contributors in Massachusetts, companies who gave $100,000 or more to Massachusetts-based in charities in 2024,” said Carolyn Jones, market president and publisher of the Boston Business Journal. “Collectively, they gave more than $416 million in cash contributions, a true example of the business community coming together to help those in need. We are proud to celebrate these organizations who give both money and time to make Boston a stronger and better place for all.”

Freedom Credit Union Hosts Free Fall Shred Days

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Freedom Credit Union is once again putting community safety first by hosting free fall shred days at four locations this September. Open to members and the general public, these events provide a secure way to safely dispose of sensitive documents that should never be discarded in household trash.

“Protecting personal information is critical in today’s world,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said. “We host shred days to give our members and neighbors peace of mind, knowing their documents will be securely destroyed and kept out of the hands of scammers and identity thieves.”

Community members are encouraged to bring unwanted paperwork such as old bills, bank statements, tax returns, and other personal documents. Shredding services are provided at no cost, with a limit of up to five file boxes or paper shopping bags per vehicle.

The dates and locations are Saturday, Sept. 13 from 9 to 10 a.m. at 1976 Memorial Dr., Chicopee, and 11 a.m. to noon at 645 Center St., Ludlow; and Saturday, Sept. 20 from 9 to 10 a.m. at 54 Fair St., Northampton, and 11 a.m. to noon at 74 Main St., Greenfield.

Freedom invites all members of the community to take advantage of this free opportunity to securely declutter and protect their personal information.

Red Sox Foundation Awards $750,000 to Square One, Pedro Martinez Foundation

By
Daily News

BOSTON — The Red Sox Foundation announced the creation of its Special Recognition Award, granting $750,000 in its inaugural year to support large-scale, high-impact community investments. The first honorees, Square One and the Pedro Martinez Foundation, will use the funding to expand educational opportunities and strengthen community resources in underserved areas of the Dominican Republic and Western Mass.

Each year, the award initiative will allow the foundation’s board of directors to award transformative gifts to nonprofit partners advancing its mission in education and recreation. The Special Recognition Award expands on the foundation’s existing mission and programs, with honorees identified and selected directly by the Red Sox Foundation board of directors.

The inaugural recipients will be formally recognized with on-field check presentations during pregame ceremonies today, Sept. 12, at Fenway Park before the 7:10 p.m. Red Sox-Yankees game.

“From the start, the Red Sox Foundation has aimed to do more than provide incremental support,” Red Sox Foundation Chairman Tom Werner said. “We want to spark meaningful, lasting change. Many of our programs already reflect that philosophy, whether through mentorship, veteran services, or partnerships that strengthen families and neighborhoods. With the Special Recognition Award, we are building on that foundation by committing to a few larger-scale donations each year that will make significant impact. For many organizations, this kind of investment can be transformative, and our hope is that it helps empower families, expand opportunities for young people, and create outcomes that endure for generations.”

Square One of Springfield will receive $400,000 to support the construction of an outdoor learning center and play space for preschool-aged children, part of the organization’s ongoing $19 million “Back to Square One” capital campaign to rebuild its campus after a tornado destroyed its South End facility in 2011.

“For more than 140 years, Square One has been Springfield’s anchor for early education and family stability — through tornadoes, economic shifts, and global crises. Our ‘Back to Square One’ capital campaign is about restoring and renewing those critical services where they’re needed most, and the Red Sox Foundation’s recognition is paramount to its success,” said Dawn DiStefano, president and CEO of Square One. “These funds will create an outdoor learning center grounded in a play-based, trauma-informed curriculum tailored to the families we serve. We’re not just building a new campus — we’re nurturing lifelong learners, confident parents, and a stronger community.”

The Pedro Martinez Foundation will receive $350,000 toward the creation of a new library inside its Community & Health Center in Manoguayabo, Dominican Republic. The Red Sox have deep ties to the Dominican Republic through both player development and community engagement, including the foundation’s longstanding Lindos Sueños program, a partner of the Pedro Martinez Foundation. The new library will provide reading areas, computer access, and study spaces for more than 1,700 students, while also serving adult community members.

“Growing up in the Dominican Republic, I experienced firsthand the struggles that many children face — limited access to education, healthcare, and overall safe spaces where kids can be kids. The Pedro Martinez Foundation’s mission from the start has been to provide children with opportunities to thrive in life despite their challenges,” said former Red Sox pitcher Pedro Martinez, who was inducted into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame in 2015. “This award will help us build a library located in our Community Center that will become a place of learning and imagination for thousands of students and their families. We are grateful to the Red Sox Foundation for investing in future generations of the Dominican Republic.”

bankESB Commits $20,000 to Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB announced a $20,000 commitment over the next two years to support the construction of a new ADA- and safety-compliant play structure at Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School in Easthampton. This donation underscores the bank’s ongoing dedication to supporting inclusive education and community well-being.

The planned playground upgrade will replace aging equipment with a modern, accessible, and safe play structure designed for all students, including those with disabilities. The new structure will meet current Americans with Disabilities Act standards and incorporate essential safety features, ensuring a welcoming space for all children to play and grow together.

“bankESB is proud to support Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School in creating a safe, inclusive play environment for their students,” said Matthew Sosik, president and CEO of bankESB. “Play is a vital part of a child’s development, and we’re committed to helping build a space where every child feels included and secure.”

Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School serves over 200 students from across the Pioneer Valley, fostering a collaborative and creative learning community. The playground improvement is a key part of the school’s efforts to ensure all children — regardless of physical ability — can participate fully in daily activities.

“We are deeply grateful for bankESB’s generosity,” said Chris Kusek, head of school at Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School. “We’ve been raising funds to build this playground for a few years now, and it’s such a joy to see the students come back this school year to such a wonderful structure. We could not have done this without the support of bankESB.”

Monson Savings Bank Pledges $20,000 to Educare Springfield

By
Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank announced a pledge of $20,000 to Educare Springfield, reinforcing its commitment to early childhood education and community development. The donation was commemorated with the unveiling of Monson Savings Bank’s name on Educare’s interactive donor wall.

The celebration brought together key leaders from both organizations, including Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty and Executive Vice President and COO Michael Rouette, alongside Educare Springfield Executive Director Nikki Burnett, who also serves on Monson Savings Bank’s board of directors and trustees, and School Director Amy Stec.

“We are proud to support Educare Springfield and the incredible work they do to ensure every child has access to high-quality early education,” Moriarty said. “This investment reflects our belief in the power of education to transform lives and strengthen communities.”

Rouette added that “it’s inspiring to see the impact Educare is making in Springfield. We’re honored to be part of their mission and look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the children and families they serve.”

Educare Springfield is part of a national network of early childhood schools that use data-driven practices to prepare children for success in school and life. Educare believes that everyone deserves a fair chance to achieve their dreams, and it starts by leveling the playing field from an early age.

“Monson Savings Bank’s support means so much to our organization,” Burnett said. “Their generosity helps us continue providing innovative, research-based education to our youngest learners. As someone who serves both organizations, I see firsthand how closely aligned our values are, especially our shared commitment to empowering the community through education and opportunity.”

Stec added that “having Monson Savings Bank’s name on our donor wall is a powerful symbol of partnership. It shows our children and families that the community believes in them and their potential.”

The Insurance Advantage for Small Businesses

By Contributor
Insurance

From Risk to Reward

By Sam Hanmer

 

Every business, regardless of size, faces risk. For small companies, these risks can feel magnified. A broken piece of equipment, a slip-and-fall accident in a store, or a data breach could disrupt operations and potentially end the business altogether. Small businesses often lack the capital to weather such storms, unlike larger organizations that may absorb losses.

“Some business owners view insurance purely as an expense. However, it should be seen as a strategic investment. The premiums paid buy peace of mind, allowing entrepreneurs to focu s on growth.”

Insurance serves as a safety net. It allows owners to transfer some of the financial burden of unexpected events to a third party — the insurer. By doing so, entrepreneurs can focus more on running and growing their operations rather than constantly worrying about what-if scenarios.

 

Financial Protection and Business Continuity

At its core, insurance provides financial protection. A small business may spend years building up its reputation and customer base, but one uninsured disaster can wipe everything away.

Consider a restaurant that suffers a kitchen fire. Without insurance, the owner would need to cover the cost of repairs, replace equipment, and potentially pay employees during the downtime — all out of pocket. With proper coverage, those expenses can be absorbed by an insurance policy, helping the business recover quickly and reducing the likelihood of permanent closure.

Business continuity is another critical consideration. Certain types of insurance, such as business interruption coverage, ensure that income is replaced when the business cannot operate. This income can be the difference between reopening after a setback and shutting down for good.

 

Legal Compliance and Risk Management

Beyond financial protection, insurance is often a matter of legal compliance. Many states require small businesses with employees to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This coverage pays for medical bills and lost wages if an employee is injured on the job. Similarly, businesses that own vehicles are typically required to carry commercial auto insurance.

Even when insurance isn’t mandated by law, contracts may require it. For instance, landlords frequently require tenants to have liability coverage before signing a lease. Likewise, many clients and vendors may refuse to work with a business without professional liability insurance. Having proper coverage keeps the business compliant and opens doors to opportunities that would otherwise be closed.

 

Building Credibility and Customer Trust

Insurance also plays a role in building credibility. When customers know a business is insured, they feel more confident about doing business with it. For example, a contractor with liability and bonding coverage signals reliability and professionalism compared to one without.

Clients want reassurance that they won’t be left bearing the cost if something goes wrong. Insurance helps instill that trust. For small businesses trying to establish themselves in competitive markets, credibility can be as important as marketing or pricing strategies.

 

Attracting and Retaining Employees

Employees are the backbone of any business, and attracting top talent can be challenging for small businesses competing with larger firms. Offering insurance benefits — such as health, disability, or life coverage — can make a significant difference.

Workers often view insurance as part of their overall compensation package. By providing it, small businesses comply with legal requirements in some cases and demonstrate that they value employee well-being. This can improve morale, reduce turnover, and foster loyalty, boosting productivity and lowering the cost of recruiting and training new staff.

 

Types of Insurance Small Businesses Should Consider

Not all insurance is created equal, and every business has unique needs depending on its industry, location, and size. However, several core policies are widely recommended for small businesses:

• General liability insurance covers bodily injury, property damage, and advertising injury claims. It’s the foundation of protection for most small businesses.

• Property insurance protects buildings, equipment, and inventory against risks like fire, theft, or natural disasters.

• Business interruption insurance provides income replacement if operations are halted due to a covered event, ensuring business continuity.

• Workers’ compensation is required in most states if a business has employees. It covers medical costs and lost wages for workplace injuries.

• Professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions insurance, covers claims of negligence, mistakes, or failure to deliver promised services.

• Commercial auto insurance protects vehicles used for business purposes against accidents, theft, and liability claims.

• Cyber liability insurance, increasingly important in the digital age, covers costs related to data breaches, hacking, or cyber fraud.

• Health and employee benefits insurance attracts and retains employees while supporting overall workforce wellness.

Each policy addresses specific risks, and many insurers offer bundled packages tailored for small businesses.

 

Insurance as a Strategic Investment

Some business owners view insurance purely as an expense. However, it should be seen as a strategic investment. The premiums paid buy peace of mind, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on growth. Moreover, the right coverage can help secure financing. Banks and investors are more willing to back a business with sound risk management through proper insurance.

In this sense, insurance isn’t just about protection; it’s also about enabling growth. Reducing uncertainty encourages owners to take calculated risks, whether expanding into a new market, investing in new equipment, or hiring additional staff.

 

Emerging Risks for Small Businesses

The business landscape is constantly evolving, and new risks are emerging continually. Cybersecurity threats, supply chain disruptions, and climate-related events like floods and wildfires are now top concerns. Small businesses, which often lack robust contingency plans, are especially vulnerable.

Insurance products have adapted to these realities, offering specialized cyber threat or natural disaster policies. Staying ahead of these risks by maintaining up-to-date coverage ensures small businesses remain resilient in an unpredictable world.

 

The Cost of Being Uninsured

Finally, it’s worth emphasizing the cost of being uninsured. While skipping coverage may save money in the short term, the long-term consequences can be devastating. An uninsured lawsuit, for instance, can cost tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars — sums that most small businesses cannot afford.

Even a single uncovered incident could trigger bankruptcy or force a business to close its doors. By contrast, insurance spreads risk and makes potential losses manageable. The relatively small premium paid today can prevent financial ruin tomorrow.

 

Insurance as a Foundation for Success

Insurance is not merely a regulatory requirement or a financial tool — it is a foundation for success in the small business environment. It protects against unforeseen losses, fosters credibility, supports employees, and creates growth opportunities.

For small business owners who have invested their time, energy, and personal resources into their ventures, insurance ensures that their hard work is not undone by a single accident or crisis. In short, it’s an essential part of building a business and a sustainable future.

 

Sam Hanmer is principal of Rush Insurance Group.