2025 - Page 2 of 48 - BusinessWest

Appeals Court to Address Employers’ Shield to Equal Pay Liability

By Contributor December 23, 2025

Law

Work in Progress

By Meaghan Murphy, Esq.

A Massachusetts Superior Court recently dismissed claims brought by an employee under the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act (MEPA) and the Massachusetts anti-discrimination law after an employer successfully used the MEPA’s absolute defense to liability. Unhappy with the outcome, the employee who filed the lawsuit appealed the Superior Court’s decision, and that appeal is pending.

The Appeals Court heard argument in this case on Sept. 3, and a decision is expected in the coming months. That decision will be the first appellate guidance on the affirmative defense available to employers under MEPA and will set the standard for pay equity disputes across the state.

Before diving into the case on appeal, it is important to understand what MEPA prohibits and requires, and what the employer defense that acts as a total shield to liability is all about.

What MEPA Does

MEPA applies only to claims of discriminatory pay based on gender. The law prohibits employers from paying employees less due to their gender, and further requires employers to pay employees equal pay for comparable work.

Meaghan Murphy

“The Appeals Court affirms the Superior Court’s dismissal of Woodward’s claims, it might mean that employers can rely on self-evaluations and proposed changes as a shield to liability, without actually making the changes — a lower standard for this affirmative defense than expected.”

Comparable work is work that requires substantially similar skill, effort, and responsibility, and is performed under similar working conditions. A job title or job description alone does not determine if two employees are performing comparable jobs. A more fact-specific analysis of the day-to-day duties and responsibilities is typically required.

The ‘Evaluate and Progress’ Defense

MEPA contains a rare ‘safe harbor’ provision that courts can rely on to dismiss MEPA claims when an employer successfully shows they have met the legal requirements. Under §105A(d) of MEPA, employers are protected from liability for gender-based pay disparity claims if they complete “a self-evaluation” of their own pay practices “in good faith” and demonstrate “reasonable progress” toward eliminating any identified wage differentials based on gender for comparable work. An important caveat: that self-evaluation must be completed within three years of an employee (or group of employees) filing a claim under MEPA.

If an employer can satisfy these requirements, then MEPA claims are barred. In other words, there is no liability for employers who can show they took these steps within three years of getting sued under MEPA. Of course, not all employers conduct these self-evaluations. But for those that do, this ‘evaluate and progress’ defense is a total game changer.

The Case on Appeal

In Woodward v. Board of Registration in Nursing et al., the plaintiff, Lauren Woodward, was hired by the Board of Registration in Nursing as a compliance officer. Woodward is a woman, and the two other compliance officers at the time were men.

Part of a compliance officer’s pay was based on the number of years of relevant or similar work experience they had prior to being hired. The board gave credit — and increased the pay — for that prior experience. All three compliance officers were credited with different numbers of years of experience, but the two men were credited with more years based on their respective experience. That resulted in the men being paid more than Woodward for the same job.

In June 2020, Woodward filed a lawsuit alleging that she was paid less than the two male compliance officers. She asserted a claim under MEPA and a sex discrimination claim under the Massachusetts anti-discrimination law based on these same allegations of sex-based pay disparity.

In a motion filed with the court, the board asked that the claims be dismissed and asserted the ‘evaluate and progress’ defense under MEPA. The board argued that it had conducted a good-faith self-evaluation of its pay practices within three years of Woodward’s claim being filed, that it had identified wage differentials based on gender for comparable work, and that it had made reasonable progress towards eliminating those wage differentials.

During its self-evaluation, which the board said was conducted in November 2019, the board identified seven individuals — both women and men — who were subject to potentially impermissible pay disparities. The board proposed that the pay for all seven employees be adjusted upward to match the pay of their peers doing comparable work. Notably, Woodward was not one of the seven employees identified during the evaluation, so her pay was not proposed to be adjusted upward to match that of her two male co-workers.

Based on these facts, the board argued, it had satisfied the requirements of the ‘evaluate and progress’ defense and, therefore, is shielded from Woodward’s MEPA claim.

Woodward did not dispute that the board had conducted a self-evaluation of its pay practices. However, she disputed other important facts, including whether the self-evaluation was conducted in good faith and whether the board made reasonable progress toward eliminating wage differentials based on the findings of that self-evaluation.

Interestingly, Woodward pointed out that, while the board had proposed adjustments to the pay for the seven employees identified, it had not actually made those adjustments. Therefore, according to Woodward, the board failed to show reasonable progress toward correcting the gender-based pay disparities.

The court was not persuaded by this argument from Woodward, finding that the proposal for pay adjustments for the employees identified was enough. According to the court, though evidence of actual pay increases would have demonstrated greater progress towards eliminating gender-based wage differentials, evidence of the board’s first step toward such pay increases — identifying potentially impermissible wage differentials and proposing corresponding pay increases, subject to funding approval — appears to satisfy the requirements of MEPA.

The board also argued that, even if it could not use the ‘evaluate and progress’ defense, the pay disparity between Woodward and her male peers was lawful because it was based on their varying experience and not their differing genders. But the court did not get to that argument because the board successfully demonstrated it was entitled to the affirmative defense MEPA provides. So the court stopped there.

The court also did not address the merits of Woodward’s sex discrimination claim under the state’s anti-discrimination law. Under MEPA, an employer who can establish the ‘evaluate and progress’ defense avoids liability under MEPA and the state’s anti-discrimination law.

Woodward’s claims were dismissed at the summary judgment stage (i.e., before ever getting to a jury). As mentioned above, Woodward has appealed. In her appeal, Woodward contends that the court improperly analyzed her claims and how MEPA’s ‘evaluate and progress’ defense should be applied.

What’s Next?

Employers and employees alike should be interested in the Appeals Court’s decision in this case. If the Appeals Court affirms the Superior Court’s dismissal of Woodward’s claims, it might mean that employers can rely on self-evaluations and proposed changes as a shield to liability, without actually making the changes — a lower standard for this affirmative defense than expected.

Alternatively, the Appeals Court could disagree with the Superior Court’s dismissal of Woodward’s claims and send the case back down for further analysis, which might result in a jury deciding the case. A decision is expected in the coming months.

Meaghan Murphy is an attorney with Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. Licensed in both Connecticut and Massachusetts, she regularly advises clients on various workplace issues, including discipline and performance matters, policy development and implementation, and compliance with local, state, and federal laws and regulations.

How to Make the Most of Your Charitable Giving

By Contributor December 23, 2025

Law

Choosing a Cause That Matters

By Gina M. Barry, Esq.

As we come to the holiday season, charitable giving comes to the fore. Do you donate money to charity each year? Perhaps you donate to an organization dedicated to finding a cure for an awful disease. Perhaps you choose to benefit organizations that support and encourage positive growth in our youth. Perhaps you decide to support the local animal shelter or abuse prevention.

To reap the most benefit from charitable giving, you must first choose an appropriate charity to benefit from your generosity. There are thousands of charities working within a huge variety of causes from which to choose. Thus, you can be certain there is a charity working to bring positive change in a way that you would love to support. Of course, the causes touched upon above are just a few examples of where your donation can make a difference.

Once you have decided that you would like to support a charitable cause, it is important to determine how you will contribute. Most will choose to donate cash; however, you might also consider donating highly appreciated securities, which would allow you to avoid paying the capital gains tax on those assets. Likewise, the charity also would avoid paying this tax due to its charitable status.

Aside from a monetary donation, you may also donate goods. When purging your household to make way for new holiday items, you can donate those that are gently used, but no longer desired. For example, you may have a pantry full of uneaten, non-perishable food that your family is not eating. Consider filling a couple of grocery bags with this food and donating to your local food pantry.

“Donations claimed as tax-deductible contributions for 2025 must be actually paid to the charity on or before Dec. 31, 2025, and it is best always to obtain a receipt for your donation regardless of the amount.”

Likewise, children often grow out of clothes and get bored with their toys while they are still in good repair. Many charities that benefit children would be delighted to receive these clothes and toys to help the children that they serve. Similarly, when you and your old vehicle finally part ways, you do not have to send the vehicle to a junkyard. Many charities accept any vehicle, working or not, as a donation.

If making a monetary contribution or a donation of goods is not possible at this time, consider volunteering your time to your favorite cause. Elder services, animal shelters, hospitals, and soup kitchens are all wonderful places to volunteer. While the time you volunteer is not tax-deductible, any out-of-pocket expenses associated with volunteering are usually deductible. For example, travel expenses to and from the volunteer site, as well as parking fees and tolls, may be deducted.

Next Steps

When you have decided which cause you would like to help and in what manner, you are almost ready to make a donation. Be certain the charity has received approval from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as being eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. You can determine the tax-exempt status of an organization either by contacting your local IRS office or by asking the organization for a copy of its ‘letter of determination,’ which is the formal notification the organization receives from the IRS once its tax-exempt status has been approved. Also, IRS Publication 78, Cumulative List of Organizations, is an annual listing of thousands of organizations that can accept tax-deductible donations.

Donations claimed as tax-deductible contributions for 2025 must be actually paid to the charity on or before Dec. 31, 2025, and it is best always to obtain a receipt for your donation regardless of the amount. When considering donating to charity, it is also important to check in with your tax advisor, as there have been some important changes.

For example, starting in 2026, even taxpayers who take the standard deduction (i.e., don’t itemize) can claim a modest ‘above-the-line’ deduction — up to $1,000 for singles and $2,000 for married couples filing jointly. For those who do itemize, deductions for charitable contributions will apply only to the portion that exceeds 0.5% of adjusted gross income. That means the first 0.5% of adjusted gross income in charitable gifts each year will not reduce taxable income. Further, in 2026, the tax benefits of itemized charitable deductions will be capped at 35%, even for those in the 37% marginal tax bracket. Thus, to make the most of your charitable giving, be sure to consult your advisor before making your donations.

Charitable giving is extremely rewarding. You will not only reap the benefit of knowing that you are helping to make a difference in this world, but when tax season comes, you may enjoy a beneficial tax deduction as well.

Gina M. Barry is an attorney in the Springfield office of Bacon Wilson, P.C. She is a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Estate Planning Council, and the Western Massachusetts Elder Care Professionals Assoc. She concentrates her practice in the areas of estate and asset protection planning, probate administration, guardianships, conservatorships, and residential real estate.

Eversource Wins Award for Electric Grid Monitoring System

By BusinessWest Staff December 23, 2025

Environment and Engineering

Innovative Approach

From left: Eversource Senior Vice President of Engineering Digaunto Chatterjee, Eversource Manager of Substation and Transmission Data Innovation Junhui Zhao, Assoc. of Edison Illuminating Companies Vice President of Technical Strategy Elizabeth Cook, and Assoc. of Edison Illuminating Companies CEO Steve Hauser.

In recognition of its ongoing commitment to sustainability in providing safe, reliable electric service to customers, Eversource has been honored with a 2025 Achievement Award from the Assoc. of Edison Illuminating Companies (AEIC), the electric utility industry’s longest-serving and preeminent association of leading operations experts.

The AEIC Achievement Awards are presented annually to member utilities and individuals who demonstrate significant contributions to advancing operational excellence in the electric industry. This year, Eversource received one of the prestigious awards for developing a cutting-edge leak detection method for high-pressure-fluid-filled (HPFF) cables — a type of high-voltage, underground electric transmission line that runs through densely populated areas like Boston — which is already helping to enhance the operational efficiency of the grid and mitigate environmental risk.

“This remarkable technology has reduced the time required to detect leaks within these underground transmission networks from several days to a few hours, and we are already seeing in practice how valuable this application is for our system operators, as it allows us to respond to any issues and address them even more quickly and efficiently,” said Digaunto Chatterjee, Eversource’s senior vice president of Engineering.

“Not only does this transformative monitoring tool provide substantial operational benefits, it can also be implemented cost-effectively, creating vast potential for this method to become a scalable solution as utilities across the country face challenges of addressing aging infrastructure and maintaining environmental responsibility.”

“Not only does this transformative monitoring tool provide substantial operational benefits, it can also be implemented cost-effectively, creating vast potential for this method to become a scalable solution as utilities across the country face challenges of addressing aging infrastructure and maintaining environmental responsibility,” he added. “I’m incredibly proud of our team for being recognized by AEIC for their achievements on this innovative project, which we hope will serve as a model for similar advancements throughout the industry.”

Operated in Boston and other cities throughout Eversource’s three-state service territory, HPFF systems are designed to provide safe, reliable and efficient delivery of electricity in densely populated urban areas. Because of the extensive lengths and critical nature of these underground, high-voltage power lines, HPFF systems require smart, highly sensitive methods of leak detection monitoring.

Eversource’s team of engineers was honored with the 2025 AEIC Achievement Award for the solution they developed to address these challenges in the Boston area — a dynamic monitoring dashboard powered by artificial intelligence, which offers comprehensive insights into the operational status of HPFF networks that allow for a dramatic reduction in leakage detection time, in turn lowering environmental risk.

Since its implementation in late 2023, the early detection system has been rigorously tested and has already proven to be effective in detecting early-stage leaks within the HPFF network in Boston, highlighting the benefits of integrating sophisticated analytics with operational expertise. Because this innovative tool is entirely data-driven and does not require new sensors, it is also cost-efficient and provides greater potential for the system to be more widely adopted.

Blue Cross Blue Shield Foundation Grants Support Perinatal Health

By BusinessWest Staff December 23, 2025

Insurance

Advancing Equity

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation announced $771,000 in new grant funding to support 15 organizations working to improve perinatal health across Massachusetts through its Perinatal Health Initiative, a multi-year program aimed at reducing racial inequities in perinatal health outcomes.

Now in its second cycle, the multi-year Perinatal Health Initiative grant program is part of the foundation’s broader strategy of grantmaking and policy analysis aimed at better understanding and disrupting structural racism and broadening health equity.

Building on the foundation’s 2024 effort, the two-year program was shaped by insights from community partners, fellow funders, and an ongoing assessment of the perinatal health landscape. Seven of the organizations funded in 2025 are continuing grantees from the foundation’s initial cohort to deepen their impact through this next phase. The grants support organizations providing community-based perinatal education and support, expanding the perinatal workforce, and policy advocacy.

“These organizations are creating lasting improvements in perinatal health by expanding access to culturally responsive care and centering community voices.”

“These organizations are creating lasting improvements in perinatal health by expanding access to culturally responsive care and centering community voices,” said Audrey Shelto, president and CEO of the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation. “Their work exemplifies the power of community-based leadership in achieving health equity.”

The foundation’s board of directors approved two-year grants ranging from $25,000 to $60,000 for each of the following nonprofit organizations and their projects:

• Accompany Doula Care, Boston, which will partner with Health Leads and collaborate with healthcare systems, advocates, and providers to launch a cross-sector workgroup to increase equitable maternal health outcomes by integrating doulas into clinical care teams and creating supportive hospital policies;

• Berkshire Nursing Families, to expand the organization’s support of families who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color in Berkshire County by launching perinatal education programs, training new staff to become certified lactation counselors, and building a diverse workforce;

• Family Health Center of Worcester, to expand the capacity of its OB Advocates program, which connects community members with trained and culturally aligned doulas during pregnancy through two years postpartum;

• First Teacher Boston, which will integrate its pilot perinatal health program into its community-based parent education for Black and Brown families in Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan, offering year-round workshops, infant-focused resources, and professional development for staff in perinatal care;

• Greater Lowell Health Alliance of CHNA 10, which will build upon its Doula Academy to expand, diversify, and increase skills of the local perinatal workforce in the Lowell area;

• Greenfield Community College Foundation, to create Massachusetts’ first public certified professional midwives accredited training program to increase access to a pipeline of trained, licensed midwives and expand community birth options;

• It Takes a Village, Huntington, which will partner with the Green River Doula Network to provide community-led perinatal education, perinatal mood and anxiety disorder prevention, labor preparation, postpartum care, breastfeeding support, peer-led support circles, and extended home visits for historically marginalized families in Western Mass.;

• Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, which will support the Mind the Gap Coalition’s statewide advocacy to strengthen perinatal mental health policies and align efforts across the continuum from prenatal to infancy;

• Nantucket Community School, to increase access to childbirth education and lactation supports by providing classes and training three instructors from Black, Indigenous, and people of color communities and those fluent in Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese;

• Neighborhood Birth Center, Roxbury, to educate public health experts, policy makers, and payers regarding issues to advance midwifery education, workforce development, and access to birth centers, and lead a campaign to promote equitable reimbursement for licensed midwives and birth center facilities;

• North Quabbin Health Collaborative, Orange, which will expand one-to-one nurse visits for families up to one-year postpartum in rural and structurally marginalized communities in the towns of Orange, New Salem, Petersham, Warwick, and Wendell, providing health education programs, screening, and referrals;

• Propa City Community Outreach, Roxbury, which will implement a community-centered initiative focused on perinatal loss, expanding access to healing-centered education, connecting families and care providers across Massachusetts, and reducing isolation for families experiencing loss;

• Sacred Birthing Village, New Bedford, to train 12 multi-ethnic and linguistically diverse women in Southeastern Mass. to provide doula care and prepare them to meet state certification requirements for MassHealth-covered services;

• Worcester Addresses Childhood Trauma, which will partner with Worcester Public Health to deliver culturally responsive perinatal education, public awareness campaigns, and events guided by the Citywide Black and Brown Maternal Health Work Plan; and

• Worcester RISE for Health, to strengthen its Maternal Care Access program for refugee and immigrant communities by providing practice-based mentorship for doulas and developing a centralized referral system and wraparound supports.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation will continue to collaborate with other foundations working in perinatal health to collectively learn, align philanthropic efforts, and elevate local leadership and community-led solutions to advance birth equity in Massachusetts.

Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley Installs 2026 Leadership

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

Judy Nevarez

SPRINGFIELD — Judy Nevarez was officially installed as the 2026 president of the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley (RAPV), a nonprofit trade association representing more than 1,800 real estate professionals throughout Western Mass.

The installation took place during RAPV’s annual Holiday celebration, which featured the association’s 110th installation of officers and directors. The event was held on Dec. 11 at the Log Cabin in Holyoke.

Nevarez has more than 22 years of experience as a Realtor and is licensed in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. She is highly active in the community, serving on the board of directors for Western Massachusetts CYO and as a co-founder and advisory board member of Save Our Youth Inc.

In 2025, Nevarez was recognized by the National Assoc. of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP) as one of the Top 250 Latino Agents nationwide and ranked among the Top 100 Latino Agents in the Northeast. Within RAPV, she has served on the board of directors since 2023 and has been an active member of several committees, including scholarship, professional development, and finance.

The following individuals were installed as 2026 RAPV officers: Nikki Serafino, Keller Williams Realty, president-elect; Don Thompson, NextHome Elite Realty, treasurer; and Sue Drumm, Coldwell Banker Realty, immediate past president.

The 2026 Board of Directors includes Carrie Blair (Keller Williams Realty), Quincy Clayton (NextHome Elite Realty), Kelly Page (Trademark Real Estate), Greg Dibrindisi (Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Realty Professionals), Brian Fitzgerald (Coldwell Banker Realty), Art Ferrara (Landmark Realtors), Kathleen Norton (William Raveis Real Estate), Chad Lynch (NextHome Elite Realty), and Vinny Walsh (Coldwell Banker Realty – Western MA).

Eversource Again Named Among America’s Most Responsible Companies

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

BOSTON — For the seventh consecutive year, Eversource Energy has been recognized by Newsweek and Statista Inc. among America’s Most Responsible Companies for 2026 — one of the top-performing utilities on the annual list. This national award celebrates U.S. companies that demonstrate an exemplary commitment to corporate social responsibility and reflects Eversource’s continued achievements in advancing sustainability throughout its business operations.

“We’re honored to receive this recognition once again from Newsweek and Statista Inc., which is a resounding testament to how sustainability is at the heart of our vision to lead our industry in ethical and responsible business practices,” Eversource Chairman, President, and CEO Joe Nolan said.

“As New England’s energy landscape continues to rapidly evolve, our more than 10,000 dedicated employees are driving meaningful progress toward enabling an environmentally responsible energy future while maintaining first-class reliability and focusing on affordability for our customers,” he added. “We recognize the profound responsibility we have as the region’s largest energy provider to deliver collaborative solutions that serve the energy needs of our customers, and I’m deeply proud of how we’ve made sustainability a cornerstone of our mission as we work every day to advance a cost-effective, resilient energy transition across our region.”

The America’s Most Responsible Companies 2026 ranking focuses on a holistic view of corporate responsibility, evaluating the top 2,000 public companies headquartered in the U.S. across 30 key performance indicators, as well as an independent survey of 18,000 U.S. residents. The ranking represents the 600 companies with the highest overall corporate social responsibility scores across 14 industries. Since the annual ranking was introduced in 2019, Eversource has appeared in every edition of the list.

ERC5 Senior Alliance Team to Present Fall Prevention Workshops

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

LUDLOW — The ERC5 Senior Alliance Team will host an informative presentation on fall prevention on Wednesday, Jan. 14 at noon at the Ludlow Senior Center. This event will provide valuable insights into keeping seniors safe at home, understanding insurance coverage related to falls, and the resources available for rehabilitation and exercise.

The panel of experts will cover safety measures to prevent falls at home, what to do after a fall and how to navigate insurance coverage, rehabilitation programs available, and home assessments and the effects of medications on stability. This workshop is designed to empower seniors and their families with the knowledge and resources needed to enhance safety and well-being.

Panelists include attorney David Carlson of David G. Carlson, Esq.; Dr. Kara James of Louis & Clark Pharmacy; Katie Krupka of Assisted Living Locators – Western Massachusetts; Kimberly O’Connor of Brookhaven Hospice; Mary-Anne Schelb of Legacy Lifecare; Liz Davila of Kind Hands Care at Home; and Maura Lessard of Nurse Advocates LLC.

Area Nonprofits Benefit from HCC’s 24th Giving Tree Campaign

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

HOLYOKE — For the 24th year, Holyoke Community College (HCC) students, staff, and faculty collected hundreds of holiday gifts for consumers at local agencies through its annual Giving Tree campaign.

On Dec. 17, representatives from the five groups — Homework House, the Massachusetts Veterans Home at Holyoke (formerly the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home), Access Care Partners (formerly WestMass ElderCare), the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC), and the Itsy Bitsy Child Watch Center at HCC — attended a closing celebration where 320 gifts were distributed.

“This is a community of caring and giving folks, and that’s not just words, but deeds and actions,” HCC President George Timmons said. “This community shows up for one another, and it really does make a difference.”

Each year during the annual campaign, Giving Trees are set up in designated areas around campus. Participants choose tags from one of the nonprofit agencies based on the age of the recipient and their wish for a gift. The wrapped gifts are then piled on tables for the closing celebration, when HCC faculty, staff, and students join with representatives from the agencies to share food and stories.

“Home has always been part of our title,” said Colleen Strunk-Ackerly, volunteer coordinator for the Veterans’ Home. “With community partners like you, we’re able to provide that home-like environment for our veterans with nice things like a comfortable pair of pajamas or a nice, warm blanket. There’s nothing better, especially during the holidays.”

Even though the holidays can be a joyful time, the season can put added pressure on parents who can’t afford to buy gifts, but still want their children to experience a “sense of magic and normalcy,” said Nancy Ritz, regional director of Prevention Programs at MSPCC. “Your gifts send a powerful message to parents: you are not alone. And to children: you matter. Someone thought of you.”

This year, the Giving Tree committee added the college’s Itsy Bitsy Child Watch program to the list of beneficiaries. The center, a free program for HCC student parents, includes a clothing donation closet, where students can drop in and select used items for their children.

“These personal, individual gifts that the college community has provided are going to be even more meaningful,” said Kimm Quinlan, director of Early Childhood Initiatives at HCC. “It’s hard being a student. It’s hard work being a parent, and when you put the two of them together, it’s even harder, so I know how much our families are going to appreciate these gifts.”

Michelle Vigneault agreed. “I am so honored to be chairperson of this committee that really shows how much the HCC community cares. This is it in a big way,” she said, before relating a personal story through tears. “As a child, I was the recipient of a similar campaign, Toys for Tots, and it was the best gift I ever got in my whole childhood. And it matters. It matters to children. It matters to families, and it matters to our elderly and our veterans and the whole community.”

Eric Nakajima to Direct Holyoke Office of Planning and Economic Development

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

Eric Nakajima

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia appointed Eric Nakajima to head the city’s Office of Planning and Economic Development. Nakajima succeeds Aaron Vega, who has been appointed president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council.

Nakajima, 59, is an economic development consultant. He has held policy and innovation positions with the state’s Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development and is the former director of the Massachusetts Broadband Institute. From 2020 to 2024, he was director of Government Relations for the Massachusetts Teachers Assoc.

Nakajima earned a bachelor’s degree, cum laude, in political science from UMass Amherst and a master’s degree in city planning from the University of California, Berkeley. He held a year-long fellowship for working professionals at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Cambridge.

The mission of Holyoke’s Office of Planning and Economic Development is business recruitment and retention, short- and long-range planning, and providing staff support to the Planning Board, Redevelopment Authority, Economic Development Industrial Corp., Licensing Board, and Tourism Advisory Committee, among other boards and commissions.

“Holyoke is a city on the rise,” Nakajima said, “and I am excited to join such an outstanding team to support the economic growth, vitality, and livability of the city.”

Garcia said Nakajima’s credentials and experience put him at the top of the list for the director’s post.

“We’re fortunate to have attracted a professional whose skills and knowledge are so relevant to Holyoke’s prosperity path,” the mayor said. “The growth that Aaron Vega and his team brought about will continue and expand under Eric’s leadership.”

Monson Savings Bank Donates $7,500 to Ludlow Boys and Girls Club

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank announced a donation of $7,500 to the Ludlow Boys & Girls Club as part of the Club’s 75th anniversary celebration, reinforcing its commitment to supporting local youth and community programs. The bank served as a project sponsor for this fundraiser.

Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty presented the donation to Josue Irizarry, president and CEO of the Ludlow Boys & Girls Club, and Cristina Jardine, the club’s director of Development.

“At Monson Savings Bank, we believe in investing in the future of our communities,” Moriarty said. “The Ludlow Boys & Girls Club has been a pillar of support for local youth for 75 years, and we are honored to help celebrate this incredible milestone as a project sponsor.”

Irizarry expressed gratitude for the contribution, adding, “this generous donation from Monson Savings Bank helps us continue to provide a safe and supportive environment for children and teens. Their sponsorship of our 75th anniversary celebration demonstrates their deep commitment to the community and the young people we serve.”

The Ludlow Boys & Girls Club offers programs that promote academic success, healthy lifestyles, and character development for youth in the community. Monson Savings Bank’s donation will help fund these initiatives and ensure continued access to essential services.

Nearly Half of Massachusetts Residents Spending Less This Holiday Season

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Daily News

BURLINGTON — ’Tis the season for financial strain in the Commonwealth, according to a new survey. A Mass Opportunity Alliance (MOA) poll found nearly half (45%) of all Massachusetts residents are planning to spend less on holiday gifts this season, up sharply from the 36% who said the same thing in 2024.

This not-so-festive financial strain is especially pronounced among lower- and middle-class households: 48% of residents earning between $50,000 and $100,000 say they plan to spend less on gifts this year, along with 56% of those making under $50,000.

Christmas stockings could also be lighter for kids in the Commonwealth, with 41% of parents with children under 18 planning to cut back. And looking ahead, spirits aren’t cheerful or bright: 46% of residents say they feel pessimistic about the economy going into 2026.

The survey of 505 Massachusetts residents, conducted Dec. 9-12 by research firm Big Village, was performed at a 95% confidence level. The findings are the latest in MOA’s monthly polling to track public opinion on key issues related to competitiveness in the Commonwealth. Click here for the full analysis.

Common Capital Helps Entrepreneurs Realize the Dream

By George O'Brien December 22, 2025

Cover Story

Getting a Leg Up

Alysia Bryant, founder of Carefree Cakery

It was the height of the pandemic, and Alysia Bryant had reached an inflection point.

She was managing a Sherwin Williams store, and increasingly asking herself …. ‘why?’

“I was considered an essential worker, but it didn’t feel like the work I was doing actually mattered at all; I was selling paint,” she told BusinessWest. “I thought, ‘if I’m going to be giving this much of myself to anything, it may as well be something that matters to me at my core,’ and that’s what pushed me all the way out of working my comfortable corporate job and doing something for myself.”

That ‘something else’ was baking, something she started doing back in high school when she would bake box mix brownies and sell them out of her backpack. She put this passion aside, thinking she should be “doing something really important with my life,” and started thinking about becoming a doctor.

But that wasn’t the right fit for her, so she looked at perhaps baking with a purpose, as she called it, and opening a free-trade bakery to make sure the farmers providing her with chocolate, vanilla, coffee, and other goods were paid a living wage for their work, a concept that would grow in scope — while she was selling paint — to include being allergy-friendly.

It was a noble concept, but one she quickly understood would only become reality if she got a little help — on the financing side and otherwise.

“I thought, ‘if I’m going to be giving this much of myself to anything, it may as well be something that matters to me at my core,’ and that’s what pushed me all the way out of working my comfortable corporate job and doing something for myself.”

That help came from Common Capital, the Springfield-based agency that offers small business loans of any size up to $300,000 to individuals in the four counties of Western Mass. — capital that can be used for everything from a business startup to working capital, inventory, supplies, and equipment.

Bryant, who said she didn’t even consider traditional bank financing because she had nothing for collateral and wouldn’t be a good candidate, used a loan of just over $100,000 from Common Capital to launch Carefree Cakery in the Mill District in North Amherst, selling cakes and a wide range of other products that have drawn a strong following. But she was quick to note that, beyond the money, the agency has provided support in areas ranging from accounting to marketing that she considers critical to her ongoing success.

Such multi-faceted assistance from Common Capital, founded in 1990, has helped launch and accelerate some of the region’s better-known success stories in recent decades — including the Hot Table chain of panini restaurants, which started in Springfield and now stretches across the state and into Connecticut; Youth on the Move, the Indian Orchard-based transportation company specializing in shuttling young people, which has grown exponentially over the past decade; White Lion Brewing Co., which now has two locations and has expanded its reach across the state; and Rozki Rides, another youth-focused transportation company based in Agawam.

More recently, the client list has grown to include a widely diverse mix of new ventures, from a growing list of behavioral health-related ventures to Elliott Fire, a Holyoke-based company that repairs, inspects, and maintains fire sprinkler systems, to Higher Expectations, a sports training facility on Cadwell Drive in Springfield.

These stories and countless others are all different, but there is generally a shared sentiment that, if it weren’t for Common Capital, the venture likely would not have moved off the ground — and certainly not as quickly.

“White Lion was not a bankable entity. We were a startup; it was a concept,” founder Ray Berry recalled, noting that he became involved with the agency 12 years ago. “I like to say that, if Common Capital wasn’t around, and if it didn’t have the capacity to seed White Lion, I’m not sure where this brand would be right now.”

And while assisting countless entrepreneurs with realizing and then rewriting their business plans, Common Capital is updating its own.

It calls for continually growing a portfolio of loans that has essentially doubled over the past seven years, from $5 million to $9 million, with plans to reach $15 million, said Raymond Lanza-Well, the agency’s president, adding that this threshold will move the organization closer to self-sustainability.

Overall, the agency has been in a strong growth pattern of its own, he went on, building on the foundation laid by Common Capital founder Chris Sikes and aggressively expanding the portfolio through a philosophy of assuming more risk, especially through more smaller loans of less than $50,000, adding new programming, and strengthening partnerships with several constituencies.

Raymond Lanza-Well says Common Capital is in a growth mode, having doubled the size of its loan portfolio from $5 million to more than $9 million over the past seven years.

These include agencies within the region’s and state’s entrepreneurship ecosystem — from EforAll to the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center; from the Sphere Northampton to the LGBTQ Chamber in Easthampton — as well as the region’s banks and credit unions, which will often refer business loan applicants they have to turn down to the agency.

For this issue, we take an in-depth look at Common Capital, several of the businesses in the growing client portfolio, and what’s ahead for all of them.

Getting Down to Business

Chris Elliott had been working for sprinkler installation and service companies for more than 30 years when he reached the point most entrepreneurs reach — the one where they decide that it’s time to work for themselves rather than someone else.

“I like to say that, if Common Capital wasn’t around, and if it didn’t have the capacity to seed White Lion, I’m not sure where this brand would be right now.”

And while he had the drive to strike out on his own, again, like many entrepreneurs, he lacked the capital — and the ability to attain it from traditional sources.

“We simply weren’t bankable,” said Elliott, referring to himself and his wife and business partner, Cristie, adding that the dream was more or less put on ice until, like hundreds of other aspiring entrepreneurs, he was referred to Common Capital.

The Elliotts used their $150,000 loan to set up shop in a building on Main Street in Holyoke. But beyond that, taking advantage of services that go well beyond capital, such as training initiatives in accounting, booking, and website development, they’ve been able to grow the business from humble beginnings — Cristie’s Rav 4 was detailed with the company logo, and it served as the primary operating vehicle for several years — adding several government contracts and large clients such as Tower Square in Springfield and General Dynamics.

The Elliotts’ story — and Bryant’s, and Berry’s — are fairly typical of those who ‘find’ Common Capital, said Roberto Nieves, who left the banking industry to become the agency’s director of Outreach and Communications. He told BusinessWest that this region has always had a deep well of entrepreneurial energy, but the pandemic inspired more people, like Bryant, to pursue dreams and go into business for themselves.

Cristie and Chris Elliott, owners of Elliott Fire, another success story accelerated by Common Capital.

“Many of the essential workers were working longer hours, working double shifts, doing all of these things that were necessary for us to move forward during the pandemic,” he recalled. “And they got to a point, post-COVID, where they said, ‘if I’m going to work this hard, I’m going to do it for me and not for you.’”

This phenomenon was reflected in many ways, from registered nurses starting home health agencies to a surge in new behavioral health agencies to new businesses of all kinds, Nieves said, adding that many of these ventures are being launched by women and people of color, many of whom are living in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods.

All this is reflected in Common Capital’s portfolio of clients, he noted, adding that 80% of borrowers are now women, a rise from 42% in 2020, and many of these are women of color, inspired — and helped along — by the growing number of accelerator programs in the area.

Lanza-Well agreed. He succeeded Sikes as the agency’s president in 2018 after working first in banking and then for a succession of community loan funds, including, most recently, the Vermont Community Loan Fund.

That agency is roughly the same age as Common Capital, but about twice the size when it comes to the loan portfolio, even though it serves a smaller population.

“That told me, without doing anything particularly scientific or complicated, that there was a lot of untapped opportunity for Common Capital to grow,” he told BusinessWest, adding that he and his team of eight have been focused on seizing that opportunity.

Specifically, the agency has been thinking differently about its lending, said Lanza-Well, adding that he has tapped his vast experience in community development lending to expand the portfolio.

“The lending business is a business of risk management,” he explained. “We all take risks as lenders, and I think I helped us look a little bit differently at the risks.”

Elaborating, he said that, for loans up to $50,000 — a fast-growing segment of the portfolio — collateral is not a material consideration.

“We pull credit reports, we look at credit behavior, we spend a lot of time talking to our applicants about their credit behavior, but we don’t use the score itself because the score is based on an algorithm, and the algorithm has all sorts of biases built into it, and we’re dealing with folks who live outside algorithms.”

“We absolutely require every applicant, every borrower, to pledge whatever collateral is available to support their loan,” he explained. “But for most of our loans that are less than $50,000, there’s hardly enough collateral to cover the loan. That would scare the heck out of a bank, but it’s what we do every day.”

Banks are generally not interested in loans of less than $50,000 in most circumstances, he went on, adding that the Small Business Administration’s microloan program, which provides capital for loans up to $50,000, has been a critical factor in the agency’s strong growth pattern. In fact, Common Capital is the largest SBA microlender in the state, as well as the largest non-bank guaranteed lender with the SBA in the state, despite serving a region that has only 17% of the population.

Other goals include broadening its network of relationships with both banks and agencies within the entrepreneurship ecosystem to put more potential borrowers in the pipeline, Lanza-Well said, adding that the average loan amount is currently about $65,000, a number that helps spread risk throughout the portfolio.

Meanwhile, still another growth factor is a philosophy of “lending to people, not paper,” he noted.

Roberto Nieves says a pandemic-fueled surge in entrepreneurship has been led by women and people of color, and this is reflected in Common Capital’s loan portfolio.

“Unlike a bank, unlike a credit card company, unlike most conventional lenders, we don’t use credit scores. We pull credit reports, we look at credit behavior, we spend a lot of time talking to our applicants about their credit behavior, but we don’t use the score itself because the score is based on an algorithm, and the algorithm has all sorts of biases built into it, and we’re dealing with folks who live outside algorithms.”

It’s Not a Piece of Cake

Bryant said she started off being conservative with her staffing and spending, knowing that many new businesses fail in the first few years due to poor cash flow.

“But I completely underestimated how much the community would be excited about this,” she noted. “We sold out within our first two hours the first day we were open, and that continued for the first two weeks.

“We were exhausted — it was me and one other person,” she went on, adding that she would eventually bring on more help and now has a staff of six. “We’re growing and doing well.”

But despite this success, there are stern challenges to sustainability, she went on.

“I went for a business model that really increases my base prices for many items; our ingredients are just more expensive because they pay the people who make them,” Bryant explained, adding that chocolate prices have doubled since last year. “If this can just work, that will be enough for me. I want this shop to thrive; I want it to be a cornerstone of the community.”

Like others we spoke with, Bryant said the support from Common Capital has gone well beyond the loan — and is ongoing.

“It’s not just, ‘here’s the money,’ and you’re gone,” she explained. “There’s ongoing coaching; I have access to people who have experience running a business, so I can just talk to them, but they can also pair you up with people who can help you with other elements, such as marketing and bookkeeping.”

Indeed, Common Capital’s Business Resource Center provides a wide range of services, from one-on-one business navigation to credit counseling to a series of training webinars.

These offerings include recent programs, undertaken in partnership with the Center for Women & Enterprise, with titles such as “Navigating Change: Embracing Uncertainty” and “Finding Calm in the Holiday Chaos.”

“Even with a business degree and some experience, the ongoing help from Common Capital has been invaluable,” said Bryant, adding that she never feels alone as she continues on the journey of entrepreneurship.

Spreading the word about such impact and growing Common Capital’s own brand is one ongoing mission and yet another factor in the agency’s growth pattern, said Nieves, who noted that relationships, and being visible, are keys to success in these efforts.

“I’m a member of 10 chambers of commerce, and, between Raymond and I, we’re represented on every single economic development committee of significance through all four Western Mass. counties,” he explained, adding that, most recently, there’s been a strong push in the Berkshires, an area that had been perhaps underrepresented in the agency’s portfolio, with better numbers over the past several years.

Such outreach has enabled more people to gain access to capital, programs that help their ventures remain sustainable, and opportunities to ride the roller coaster that is entrepreneurship.

“It’s been a heck of a ride — I don’t get days off at all,” Bryant said. “But it’s the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done, by far.”

And a dream, like so many others, made possible by Common Capital.

BusinessTalk with Meg Talbert, Executive Director, Dakin Humane Society: More Than a Pet Project

By BusinessWest Staff December 22, 2025

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

With new episodes airing every other Monday, BusinessTalk features in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders who offer thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachusetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running. BusinessTalk is sponsored and presented by Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 249: December 22, 2025

Joe Bednar talks with Meg Talbert, Executive Director, Dakin Humane Society

Meg Talbert says she and her dedicated staff and volunteers at Dakin Humane Society bring a lot of love and joy to their work, even though they’re dealing with animals — and families — facing difficult issues. And while Dakin’s services — from adoption and fostering to medical care and pet loss support groups, and many more — help thousands of people and animals each year, the need has never been greater. On the next episode of BusinessTalk, Meg, Dakin’s executive director, sits down with BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar for a wide-ranging discussion about how Dakin is meeting those evolving needs, how people in the community can support this work, and what’s around the corner as the nonprofit puts together a strategic plan for the future. It’s must listening, so tune into BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest over both audio and video platforms, and sponsored by Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

Also Available On

What Employers Must Know About Salary Range Transparency Law

By Contributor December 22, 2025

Law Special Coverage

Out in the Open

By Michael Lewis, Esq.

On Oct. 29, Massachusetts’ pay transparency law took effect. Employers must post a good-faith pay range for each specific position and provide that range to applicants and employees on request. Larger employers must also submit workforce equal employment opportunity (EEO) data to the state.

Actions to take now: Set credible pay ranges, update posting templates, train managers and recruiters, and calendar your EEO data submission.

Posting and disclosure duties apply if you averaged 25 or more Massachusetts employees last year. Count all employees whose primary place of work is Massachusetts, including full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary workers. Include remote employees tied to a Massachusetts worksite and out-of-state employees who report to or are assigned to a Massachusetts base. Determine coverage once a year by averaging headcount across all pay periods. The separate EEO data reporting duty applies to employers with 100 or more Massachusetts employees that already file EEO reports with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Your postings must show a real pay range for Massachusetts roles. Every advertisement or job posting for a particular and specific position with a Massachusetts primary place of work must list a range you reasonably expect to pay at the time of posting. Third-party and agency postings count. If pay is by commission or piece rate, include the expected commission or piece rate range. The law does not require listing benefits or bonuses.

You also must disclose ranges to applicants and current employees. Upon request, give any applicant the range for the posted position. Give current employees the range when you offer a promotion or transfer, and upon request for their own position, even if no vacancy exists. Make sure managers know who answers these requests and how.

“Every advertisement or job posting for a particular and specific position with a Massachusetts primary place of work must list a range you reasonably expect to pay at the time of posting.”

‘Primary place of work’ reaches remote and hybrid setups. If a role reports to or is assigned to a Massachusetts worksite, treat it as covered, even when the individual works outside the state. If the role can be performed in Massachusetts, assume the posting rule applies.

Enforcement sits with the attorney general; there is no private lawsuit. Expect a warning for a first violation, then escalating civil penalties. Through Oct. 29, 2027, you get two business days to cure after a notice. Retaliation against applicants or employees who seek ranges or complain about violations is prohibited.

Large employers must submit EEO workforce data to the Commonwealth. If you file EEO-1 (or EEO-3/4/5, as applicable) with the EEOC, you must transmit the same reports to the Secretary of the Commonwealth on the state schedule. The state will publish aggregate industry reports; individual employer submissions are not public records.

Seven Practical Steps to Get Compliant Quickly

• Decide coverage. Run the 25-employee average using last year’s payroll periods. Flag multi-state and remote roles tied to Massachusetts.

• Map positions. List all ‘particular and specific’ jobs in Massachusetts, including internal ladders and common transfer paths.

• Set ranges now. Build good-faith minimums and maximums for each position using market data, internal equity, geography, and level. Avoid inflated bands that you would not actually pay.

• Standardize postings. Add a salary-range line to every template and require recruiters and agencies to include it. For social posts, link to the full posting with the range.

• Train managers and recruiters. Give a script for handling range requests. Remind teams not to ask for salary history until after an offer. Reinforce anti-retaliation.

• Document and monitor. Keep a living list of ranges, the date set, the factors considered, and the owner. Review at set intervals and after material changes.

• Calendar the data filings. If you file EEO reports federally, calendar the Massachusetts submission dates and designate the filer.

Templates You Can Use Today

Required range line for postings: “Pay range for this role: $__ to $__ per year [or $__ to $__ per hour]. Actual pay will reflect skills, experience, and job-related factors. This role [includes commission with an expected range of $__ to $__ ] is paid by piece rate with an expected range of $__ to $__].”

Applicant range request response: “Thank you for your interest. The pay range for the [position] is $__ to $__ [plus commission/piece rate as posted].”

Employee request for current position: “The current pay range for your position, [position/title/level/location], is $__ to $__. We review ranges on [cadence] based on market data, skills, and responsibilities.”

Common Questions from Employers

Do we need to update a posting if the range changes during the search? Post the range you reasonably expect to pay when you publish the posting. If your range materially changes during the search, update the posting and your internal file.

Do we need to include bonuses or benefits? No. List the base salary or hourly range. Include commission or piece-rate ranges if those pay forms apply.

Do internal promotions without a posting trigger disclosure? Yes. Provide the range when offering a promotion or transfer.

Do we have to share ranges for every job on demand? Applicants get the posted position’s range on request. Employees get their own position’s range on request, even when no opening exists.

How should we handle multi-state postings? If the role could be filled by someone whose primary place of work is Massachusetts — or the role reports to a Massachusetts worksite — include a Massachusetts-compliant range.

Key Dates and Thresholds at a Glance

• Oct. 29, 2025: Salary-range posting and disclosure duties began for employers with 25 or more Massachusetts employees.

• Feb. 1, 2026 (EEO reporting): EEO-1 due annually; EEO-3 and EEO-5 due in odd-numbered years; EEO-4 due in even-numbered years — only for employers that file these reports with the EEOC.

• Through Oct. 29, 2027: Two-business-day cure period after a notice from the attorney general.

Why Act Now?

Pay ranges will surface internally and externally. Employees will compare. Posting ranges that you cannot defend invites morale issues and legal risk. You control the narrative by setting credible bands, training your teams, and responding cleanly to requests.

Michael Lewis is an attorney with the Commercial Litigation Group at Halloran Sage, handling complex business and employment disputes for a wide range of clients in industries including healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and technology.

Engineering Firms Prioritize Ways to Attract, Develop New Talent

By Joseph Bednar December 22, 2025

Environment and Engineering Special Coverage

Something to Build On

Two Western New England University students work on a jet engine they built. (Photo courtesy of Western New England University)

Among the courses Mike Rust teaches at Western New England University (WNE) is “Introduction to Engineering,” a very hands-on class that teaches the engineering design process to freshmen through a robotics development project.

At first, “they’re looking at me like, ‘I don’t know how to do these things.’ And then we train them in all the technical things that they need to do,” said Rust, professor of Biomedical Engineering and director of Experiential and Entrepreneurial Learning at WNE. “Over time, they’re weaning off, and at the end of the course, the faculty’s checking in, but the students are doing it themselves. They almost don’t notice, but by the end, they’re acting like an engineer; they’re thinking like an engineer — because they’ve lived and breathed it their first year on campus.

“When I was a student a couple decades ago, we didn’t get a project like that to work on until junior year,” Rust said, adding that giving students hands-on experience from day one helps them thrive throughout college — which can translate into success in internship experiences and their early career. “The context sticks a little better when they have the muscle memory because they’ve experienced it, not just thought about it.”

It’s not just in class that WNE engineering students are preparing for the real world. At the Delbridge Career Center, the university’s career services hub, a professional adviser is assigned to each student, and available resources include résumé development, mock interviews, internship connections, and an alumni network.

“Engineering is a professionally oriented field, and students, when they’re coming through our programs, are already thinking in these terms when they start: where are they going to go with this degree? What are they going to do long term?” Rust said, explaining how those career services tie into the hands-on classroom model.

“The context sticks a little better when they have the muscle memory because they’ve experienced it, not just thought about it.”

“We teach theory, but we’re always putting that theory into practice with projects; students are actually doing it. So when they go to the interview, they can say, ‘I have done these things; this is the value I can provide your company.’ And when they get their first job after graduation, they can hit the ground running.

“Everyone needs to be trained when they join a company,” he added, “but what we hear from companies is that the learning curve is a little flatter because they’ve got a lot of that hands-on exposure.”

That’s appreciated by firms like Westfield-based Tighe & Bond, a very large, multi-state engineering firm that hires close to 100 new employees each year.

Bob Belitz says Tighe & Bond’s robust internship program aims to give aspiring engineers as much real-world, hands-on experience as possible.

“In such a competitive marketplace, we’re trying to build relationships and connections as early as possible, so we get connected to students and universities whenever we can,” said Bob Belitz, the firm’s president and CEO. “We’re participating in educational programs, going into elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools to judge fairs or just explain to these students what a career in STEM could look like.”

Those efforts are complemented at the college level with scholarships and an internship program that brings in about 30 students per year to work on real-world projects.

“What we’re trying to do through these programs is give these students a real-life, hands-on experience, to get them on as many projects site as possible. The more practical exposure they get to the work we do, the better, so our mission is to do as much of that as we can,” Belitz said, adding that interns also get professional development opportunities like help writing résumés, enhancing speaking and interview skills, and even a career fair where they present a poster board on the projects they worked on during the summer.

“In such a competitive marketplace, we’re trying to build relationships and connections as early as possible, so we get connected to students and universities whenever we can.”

“A large majority of them either come back for another internship, or we offer them full-time employment. They’re exposed to the culture of the company; we assign them buddies and team leaders throughout the course of the summer when they’re here. Hopefully they appreciate that direct investment,” he went on.

And if they choose to pursue work somewhere else, well, “it helps enhance the profession either way.”

Values and Purpose

All these efforts at recruitment and career development are important for an industry that needs new blood, said Ashley Sullivan, president and CEO of O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun Associates (OTO) in Springfield.

“For the past few years, it has been very challenging to recruit and find people. We have a shortage of people, it seems,” she noted. “We have a big exodus with retirements — through the whole COVID pandemic, there were people rethinking engineering. So there’s a lot of work, and there seems to be not a lot of people.”

Ashley Sullivan says today’s young recruits are looking for a company that aligns not only with their work interest, but with their purpose, goals, and values.

One way to attract talent is through a workplace culture that resonates with young people, she explained, and OTO started to put more emphasis on that when she transitioned into company leadership in 2020, better defining its brand; emphasizing workplace values like transparency, respect, and togetherness; and operating according to the mission statement, “we will elevate our industry to create and deliver the best solutions for natural and built environments.”

“We asked, ‘who are we? Who do we want to be?’” Sullivan said. “And we need to live by that so we can communicate it and say, with full transparency, ‘this is what we are. If you want to work at a place like this, this is what you’re going to get.’”

Meanwhile, the recruitment process involves not only interviews with top leadership, but eventually meetings with field staff and project managers. “We invest a lot in the interview process — by that time, we know this is a great candidate, so how do we show them how they would fit into our business model and fit in with our people?”

Belitz also emphasized the value of workplace culture in attracting what he characterizes as a more purpose-driven generation of young job applicants than he’s seen before.

“The narrative has changed a little bit. This generation is interested in the stability of the company. I don’t know if it’s the uncertain economy driving it, but to be able to say to these prospective interns that the company has been around over 100 years, we’re very financially stable, we do purpose-driven work, we’re 100% owned by employees — that’s a nice difference,” he explained.

“The big picture is that we’re trying to train engineers who are value creators — technically strong, skilled at math and science, but they also have that vision of how the world can be a better place.”

“We’ve also put in some really good benefits for students, like loan repayment. Benefits are a hot-button issue, so we’re really trying to promote this overall climate of stability and of the company investing in the people we bring into the firm,” Belitz added. “And giving back to the community is another key part of the puzzle — and a big selling point for young people.”

Sullivan agreed with that emphasis on culture and purpose.

“I think this newest generation wants a company that knows who they are and has a purpose — one that aligns with their purpose or what their goals are,” she told BusinessWest. “It could be that they want to see their projects have an impact on the community — they’re really community- and impact-driven, much more than the rest of us that were just looking to get a job, which is really neat. I think culture and the big picture is important to them.”

In short, she said, “they want to matter. They want to know their value, and they want to be valuable. And they want that from the beginning.”

Meanwhile, retention is as important as recruitment, which is why Tighe & Bond invests thought, time, and energy into cultivating career tracks for employees, Belitz said.

The firm’s onboarding and training program consists of not only leadership training, but anything people need to do their jobs: project management, quality management, safety and health principles, and more — efforts branded internally as Tighe & Bond University.

Mike Rust says higher education has seen a shift toward giving engineering students more hands-on, project-based experience right from the start of their college careers.

“We’ve also started investing more in training around technology, making sure folks have a good understanding of how to appropriate and use things like artificial intelligence and other investments we’ve made in digital toolsm” he added. “There’s a lot of energy around that, especially with the younger generation.”

Sullivan said many recruits want to see a clear career ladder at work.

“I think it’s important for them to be able to see where they could be in a few years, so they feel like they’re moving along. I think they want to see opportunity; they don’t want to get stuck in a rut or doing one task.

“And for me, leading a small business, I want people that want to do that because I love that people will develop and can do a little bit more of a project. If that means they’re more valuable, then the pay comes with that,” she added. “At OTO, those two things are aligned. It’s always in our benefit to develop people, so we’re looking for people that really want to do more.”

Surveying the Landscape

While Tighe & Bond is a civil and environmental engineering firm and OTO specializes in geotechnical, environmental, and industrial hygiene consulting services, Western New England, like many universities with strong engineering programs, is sending graduates out into myriad engineering disciplines — mechanical, electrical, civil and environmental, biomedical, industrial, and more. And placement rates are high, with 97% of engineering graduates placed in jobs within six months.

“Engineering tends to be pretty steady regardless of what’s going on in the economy,” Rust said. “The big picture is that we’re trying to train engineers who are value creators — technically strong, skilled at math and science, but they also have that vision of how the world can be a better place.”

Elaborating, he added, “they’re encouraged to think in those terms — to take an existing product and improve it, or talk to the customer about what the pain points are and how to address them. They’re thinking not only about what a company does, but what it could do. And companies come back to us and say, ‘can you get me five more of that student you got us last year? They were what we want.’ Because they’re not satisfied with the status quo.”

Sullivan, who has taught classes at WNE, still participates in engineering advisory boards there, connecting area industry leaders with educators.

“We talk about what we looking for for graduates and who are we looking to hire. But they also talk to us about the exciting research they’re doing, the programs they have, the outreach they have, where they have challenges, where they may need support,” she explained. “And I really feel like, whenever you have two or more groups together working to solve a problem, the ideas that come out of there are amazing.”

Like Rust, Sullivan appreciates when young people emerge with a problem-solving mindset, but also an appreciation for how they can change the landscape, both literally and figuratively.

“We get to work with a lot of people, and we get to see new development and help with projects that impact our own lives or the people we care about,” she said, naming the recently opened Square One expansion in Springfield and DC Station, the new electric vehicle charging hub in Northampton, as two examples.

“I can bring my daughters to an urgent care and know that I worked on it,” she added. “That’s one of the reasons why we try to encourage people to come to OTO, or to be in civil engineering: you impact people. The work is hard, but it’s so rewarding, and you’re constantly reminded why you do it.”

From New Coverage Risks to Emerging AI, the Insurance Landscape Is Shifting

By Joseph Bednar December 22, 2025

Insurance Special Coverage

Rate of Change

Insurance isn’t any home or business owner’s favorite topic — well, except for insurance agents, maybe — and the many pressures on rates over the past several years, from inflation and supply chain issues to adverse weather events and jury verdicts, has made it an even more difficult conversation.

The good news, said Sam Hanmer, president and CEO of Chicopee-based Rush Insurance Group, is that, while the rate environment has continued to move north, he’s seeing a slowdown on the property side.

“Property took the biggest hit after COVID. When supply was so hard to come by, it shot pricing up. Everyone’s experienced that. As an industry, we were relatively slow to figure that out,” he explained, noting that insurance carriers eventually increased rates to reflect that reality, some numerous times. “So the industry has caught up in terms of costs of construction.”

Still, rate changes vary with the age of a property, said Mark Rosa, senior account executive with Borawski Insurance in Northampton. “With newer homes, rates are fairly stable. Someone with an older house could see some rate increases because there are some insurance credits on new homes that someone with a house built in 1978 is not going to qualify for,” he noted. “But I don’t expect what we saw the last few years, 10%, 15%, 20% rate increases. That’s gone away slowly, and I expect to see some kind of stability.”

“I don’t expect what we saw the last few years, 10%, 15%, 20% rate increases. That’s gone away slowly, and I expect to see some kind of stability.”

That said, climate change and natural disasters have continued to impact the rate environment in unpredictable ways.

“I think that we as insurers would like to have that buttoned down, but with weather patterns, I think we’ll have to wait a little while longer; I think that’s going to continue to plague the insurance industry,” he said, as opposed to, say, construction costs, which have settled a bit: “I think we’ve handled that with the rate increases in the past.”

Automotive insurance has seen rate increases as well, but for different reasons, one of which is simply today’s technological sophistication, Hanmer said. “A fender bender used to cost $500, now it’s six grand, with all the cameras in these cars now.”

Another issue causing auto rates to rise is what Rosa, and others in the insurance industry, characterize as “legal system abuse,” or a trend toward massive payouts in lawsuits that wind up being borne by insurance payers and, eventually, passed on to customers. It’s a concern across all types of insurance, but particularly product liability and auto accidents; in those areas, verdict payouts rose 7.1% annually, on average, between 2016 and 2022, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

A 2025 Perryman Group study, “The Economic Impact of Excessive Tort Costs on U.S. Households,” says consumer prices in the U.S. are estimated to be 1.32% higher than they would be without excessive litigation.

Sam Hanmer

“People believe they can buy insurance online, which a lot of people do, and they never have problems — until they have one. So where do they turn? They need an advocate in the form of an agent.”

Meanwhile, the median size of so-called ‘nuclear verdicts’ — defined as jury awards of $10 million or greater — has more than doubled since 2020, according to Marathon Strategies’ “Corporate Verdicts Go Thermonuclear: 2024 Edition.” And it’s not just the severity of the verdicts that’s trending upward, but the frequency of litigation as well.

All these statistics were compiled in a recent Legal System Abuse Toolkit prepared by Trusted Choice and the Big I for use by independent insurance agents.

“Legal system abuse is a problem for policyholders, consumers, and the economy as a whole,” the toolkit argues. “It drives up prices, drives out insurers and investors, and clogs the court system with frivolous cases that could be handled fairly without litigation. Moreover, the beneficiaries are opportunists in the legal field and their financial backers.”

There are other trends at play as well. Hanmer said umbrella insurance is seeing higher rates these days, and Rosa noted that some types of contractors, such as snow plowers, have found it harder to secure affordable policies. “But most classes of businesses are seeing some stability, and even some rate softening,” Rosa added.

Knowledge Is Power

Like many indepenent agencies have expressed to BusinessWest over the years, both Hanmer and Rosa took the opportunity to underline the importance of working with an agent to navigate these complexities.

“We have to understand their business before we put a program together,” Hanmer said. “We need to understand the business they’re in, their risks, the exposures they face, and how best to mitigate them. There’s more to that than buying insurance, but insurance is still primarily how you protect yourself from unknowns and risks. So with in-depth knowledge, we can put a program together and best fit what those exposures are.”

That creates relationships that go well beyond just buying a policy, he added.

“People believe they can buy insurance online, which a lot of people do, and they never have problems — until they have one. So where do they turn? They need an advocate in the form of an agent. It’s so important to educate people that there is a need for an agent. When you buy insurance, you hope you never use it, but when you need it, you’re glad you have it — and you’re glad you have an advocate.”

Mark Rosa

“We’re seeing cyber claims for classes of businesses I never thought possible. And there are legal fees that come with cyber strikes.”

Rosa agreed. “Obviously, you need to ask the right questions. Without an intimate knowledge of a business, you’re not able to do the job in the right way,” he said. “There’s so much in every one of these policies; they aren’t just one size fits all. There’s a lot of time involved in order to do the job correctly.

“So it’s a lot of learning what the business does, spending time with the owner, asking lots of questions. Otherwise, we don’t know how to fill certain gaps,” he went on. “I think what differentiates one agent from the next is what the experience is like and how unique it is. Everyone’s business is unique. While you might qualify for a certain policy type, it doesn’t mean you don’t need to go above and beyond that.”

Rosa added that insurance isn’t something business owners always want to talk about, but the conversations are necessary, if only to regularly check in on changes to the business and evolving risks and exposures.

One of those is cyber liability, which over the past decade has become an essential part of commercial insurance — for businesses of all sizes and sectors.

“More and more, the hackers are incredibly adept and professional in how they do things — it’s amazing how good these guys are. So cyber insurance is something that everybody needs now,” Hanmer said. “It used to be, people thought only big companies were targeted, but that’s not true anymore. Everyone is getting targeted. Cyber insurance is a must buy in this market.”

Rosa agreed. “We’re seeing cyber claims for classes of businesses I never thought possible. And there are legal fees that come with cyber strikes,” he noted. “Some business owners say, ‘the data was backed up from the day before, so I don’t care.’ Well, that’s understandable, but what happens when the state or the federal government comes and slaps you with a fine, and now you’re paying for credit monitoring? We’ve seen a small business pay $63,000 between the fines and the legal paperwork. And that business could have had a cyber policy anywhere from $1,200 to $1,500 over the year.”

Career Opportunities

Beyond the financial numbers, Hanmer said, the biggest challenge the industry faces — not just regionally but nationwide — is a shallow talent pool of young people clamoring to enter the field.

“They’re not migrating into the insurance world like they had in the past. So staffing and talent is our biggest challenge right now. Ask any agent, and they’ll say the same thing — we can’t find anybody,” he explained, before offering a few thoughts on why that might be.

“It’s not flashy enough, I think, for kids. All the technology and the tech startups, that’s where they’re migrating — the more tech-oriented world. Insurance is not tech-heavy, although it’s evolving. So I don’t think insurance is exciting enough for them, and it’s too bad because it’s a great business. When I find a young person and I can bend their ear for a minute, I encourage opportunities to be in the insurance world.”

Rosa noted that technology is creeping into the insurance world in some intriguing ways. For one, underwriters are using it to adjust what they currently have on the books, using drone or satellite footage.

“When they see your house was built in 1978, now they’re subscribing to third-party technology to show an image of your roof. And hey, this roof looks like it might be 20 to 30 years old. So are the rates increasing? They might be,” he said — if the company wants to keep insuring that property at all.

If not, he went on, “now you’re going from a carrier with a favorable rate to your options being more limited, and it’s gone from $1,200 to $1,600. It’s about insurability and certain risks and what insurance companies are willing to insure.”

At the same time, insurance companies are increasingly determining how they can incorporate artificial intelligence into those processes, and that will affect rates as well, Rosa noted.

“For homeowners and our business clients, AI will shake things up. Carriers have access to so much data, and they might say, ‘hey, we can’t insure this type of business any longer.’ And that will force rates higher. It might even be a good opportunity for carriers that don’t use the technology.

“It’s too hard to say what will happens,” he added, “but I do think insurance is an industry that’s been kind of slow on technology for many decades, but that will accelerate in the next two to five years — and insurance is going to be different from what it is today.”

South Hadley Says It’s Open for Business

By George O'Brien December 22, 2025

Community Spotlight Special Coverage

Community Spotlight

Sean Fitzgerald says SHELD’s fiber business, Fiberspring, continues to expand beyond its South Hadley roots.

Lisa Wong says she was following a trend of sorts. But this was also a no-brainer.

She was referring to her move to follow up four terms as mayor of Fitchburg, in Central Mass., with a new assignment as town manager of South Hadley.

Her immediate predecessor in that role, Mike Sullivan, did essentially the same thing, moving from the corner office in Holyoke, so there’s precedent for taking that career path. As for Wong, who has also been town manager in Winchester, she has many deep connections to South Hadley, including family — and her marriage certificate.

So when Sullivan, whom she knew from when they were both mayors, talked up the job, she threw her hat in the ring and was eventually chosen, coming aboard nearly four years ago.

When asked to compare and contrast the mayor and town manager roles, Wong said that, other than dealing with the press less frequently, the jobs are very similar, and involve managing for today and planning for tomorrow, in equal parts.

In South Hadley, that means everything from ongoing work to reimagine a section of Main Street to early-stage work to build a new elementary school; from a new housing project, called the Clover, to a town meeting vote to approve six additional liquor licenses (there are 19 at present), a nod to a growing restaurant and hospitality sector.

Now under construction near the Rocky’s plaza on Route 116, the Clover project, being undertaken by Way Finders, will include 60 units of mixed-income housing, said Wong, adding that this will help close the gap in the town’s housing needs, but more work is needed.

“We’re looking at places like the Falls and the Route 202 and 33 corridor as additional places for our businesses to grow, but also to bring in new businesses, especially small businesses, to create more vibrancy.”

“We have a bigger dent to make,” she said, adding that the town recently created an affordable housing trust, tasked with creating more housing options.

These are some of the many intriguing storylines in South Hadley. Others include continued growth of the South Hadley Electric Light Department’s (SHELD) fiber internet business, called Fiberspring, which has now expanded beyond the town, as well as plans for a new, $25 million headquarters building for the utility.

SHELD is now an internet provider in the towns of Leverett and Shutesbury, both in nearby Franklin County, and recently won a contract to provide fiber for customers in Longmeadow.

“We won a unanimous vote from the Select Board in Longmeadow, and we’ve done their engineering and design, so that’s pretty exciting,” SHELD General Manager Sean Fitzgerald told BusinessWest. “We’ve delivered to them a full, town-wide design engineering package, and in the spring, we’ll believe they’ll take a vote to finance either a partial launch or an entire town launch of fiber; they have a huge appetite for this.”

As for the new headquarters facility, SHELD has chosen a site across from the Big Y on Willimansett Street for a construction of a facility will replace a more than 100-year-old structure and provide the utility with room to grow, especially on the fiber side, and an opportunity to move out of a flood zone.

There’s also the community’s large and diverse business community, which includes those that have been around for decades — like Carey’s Flowers and Chap de Laine’s Interiors, and relative newcomers such as a Delaney’s Market.

Located in a small church salvaged by one of the towns flooded to create the Quabbin Reservoir, the South Hadley Delaney’s Market also includes the kitchen that makes the grab-and-go offerings now available at five locations across the region — South Hadley, Longmeadow, Westfield, Wilbraham, and the latest addition in West Springfield, with plans to expand in Holyoke.

Founder Peter Rosskothen, a serial entrepreneur who revitalized the Log Cabin banquet facility in Holyoke, said the Delaney’s Market concept, launched a decade ago with the Longmeadow store, is catching on, with the chain amassing a growing roster of steady, repeat customers.

“We’re feeling the economy a little bit this year, but it’s a very steady concept, with loyal, regular customers,” he said. “So I feel good about the concept.”

As for Chap de Laine’s, the landmark business, opened in 1957, is preparing to mark 50 years in business, said second-generation owner Lisanne Chapdelaine, who took the helm in 1997. It has celebrated more milestones since, she noted, by being faithful to the mission set in place by her father, while also becoming a one-stop shop, handling everything from residential and commercial furnishings to flooring coverings to window treatments.

Peter Rosskothen says his chain of Delaney’s Markets continues to grow, evolve, and draw repeat customers.

“We’re still in all the categories we have been historically,” she said. “And our design services go beyond our product offerings, providing the end users with paint and wallpaper. It’s all part of being a one-stop shop.”

Current Events

Wong said she considers South Hadley to be a destination community, complete with restaurants and shops (at Village Commons, for example), parks, the arts, recreation facilities, and Mount Holyoke College.

Among her many goals is to promote these various assets and draw more visitors, while also providing quality services to those who call the community home.

“I’m led by my love of the town,” she said, adding that there are several developing stories, including some infrastructure projects, topped by a major reconstruction of what’s known as the Falls Quarter, the historic South Hadley Falls neighborhood, which sits along the Connecticut River.

“There will be a major reconstruction of Main Street from the Chicopee line to the library,” said Wong, adding that plans call for creation of multi-purpose trails, beautification efforts, and other initiatives. “It will really revitalize that area.”

As she explained, “we’re looking at places like the Falls and the Route 202 and 33 corridor as additional places for our businesses to grow, but also to bring in new businesses, especially small businesses, to create more vibrancy. We have a lot of rezoning of quarters to create a more walkable neighborhood feel that can also accommodate quality commercial spaces.

South Hadley at a Glance

Year Incorporated: 1775
Population: 18,150
Area: 18.4 square miles
County: Hampshire
Residential and commercial tax rate: $15.41 (Fire District 1); $15.74 (Fire District 2)
Median Household Income: $46,678
Median Family Income: $58,693
Type of government: Town Meeting
Largest Employers: Mount Holyoke College; Loomis Communities; Big Y
* Latest information available

“We’re opening ourselves up for business,” she went on. “We want people to thrive here, but we also want to create new opportunities to be part of our vibrancy.”

Meanwhile, the town is looking to replace Mosier School, currently grades 2-4, and expand it to grades 1-5.

“This would be a major undertaking and a major asset for the community,” Wong said, adding that the town is looking at design options and anticipates building by 2030 or 2031.

While South Hadley is progressing on many fronts, so too is SHELD. Indeed, Fitzgerald told BusinessWest that the fiber project in town has mostly exceeded expectations, with the utility now boasting a 53% market share.

“And it’s still growing — we’re approaching 3,000 customers in South Hadley alone,” he noted. “People are jumping on the fiber every day. We’re adding nine to 12 customers every week — it’s the best case that we could have hoped for.”

Looking ahead to the Longmeadow project, Fitzgerald said it will be handled in much the same way that South Hadley (which is similar in size) was, meaning it will be phased in through creation of fiber service areas (FSAs), or fiberhoods, as SHELD likes to call them.

“Each fiberhood has 250 to 300 customers, so if we start out with three or four of those, you’re looking at close to 1,000 customers,” he said, adding that Longmeadow will eventually have about 6,000 customers. “You build the town out in sections.”

And the expectations are similar in South Hadley, he went on, adding that projections call for at least a 50% market share and likely much higher, as the need for reliable internet service continues to grow.

“Co-ax cable doesn’t have the capability of the fiber, and also, the industry has changed; people watch their television differently now,” he explained. “Those factors will drive us probably over 60% to 70% over the next three years.”

Meanwhile, SHELD continues to explore further expansion opportunities, such as in Southampton, where the town has made a proposal, and Hadley, one of several communities “kicking the tires,” said Fitzgerald, adding that further expansion, which could include going into neighboring states, will be challenged by the number of private equity companies getting into the fiber business, such as Gateway Fiber and GoNetSpeed.

“They’re coming in and slapping fiber up,” he added. “And if you have too many competitors on the pole, it waters down your ability to be successful.”

As for the new headquarters building, SHELD hopes to be in construction of that facility by the second quarter of 2026, Fitzgerald noted, adding that, to pay for it, the utility will likely impose a 2.5-cent rate increase on the electric side (roughly $200 per year for the average customer), a cost that will likely be reduced as revenues grow on the fiber side.

Food for Thought

Rosskothen told BusinessWest that, beyond convenience, the main thrust at Delaney’s Market is on ‘fresh.’

Made in South Hadley with local ingredients, the meals are brought to the four other locations daily to ensure freshness, he explained, adding that the concept has caught on with many different constituencies.

“Most of those who use it are young people, busy people, seniors … it’s a wide variety of customers that come regularly,” he said, adding that these groups are attracted by a combination of convenience, quality, and variety. “Hopefully, they come once a week, and many of our customers come at least two and half times a month.”

They have a wide variety of options to consider, from chicken francaise to shepherd’s pie; blackened salmon to stuffed peppers; chicken pot pie to lobster pie (Tuesday only).

“At this time of year, the comfort foods seem to do really well — the pot pies, the chicken parm, the shepherd’s pie,” he noted, adding that the stores to very well around the holidays, both for those entertaining and those too busy to cook.

In the new year, the company will add calorie-smart offerings that will coincide with those New Year’s resolutions to eat smarter and healthier, said Rosskothen, adding that, while the concept was launched a decade ago, it has been continually tweaked to generate new customers — and more repeat customers.

In many ways, that has been the same blueprint at Chap de Laine’s.

Indeed, the landmark store, first located in South Hadley Falls and then moved to its current location on College Street in 1970, has been welcoming different generations of the same family, said Chapdelaine, adding that the store has adapted to changing times while remaining true to its roots.

For example, people can do research on the internet, she explained — which, if used properly, can be a useful tool and a vehicle for bringing people to the store.

Most of the products sold in the store are made in the U.S., which reduces the broad impact from tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, she noted, adding quickly that even products made in the country will likely have components made overseas that are subject to tariffs.

“We have one or two small brands that are subject to tariffs,” she explained. “We have two big lines for which we’re paying 20% more, overnight, and that’s a biggie.”

But Chap de Laine’s has successfully navigated plenty of change as it approaches 50 years, in a town where change — and, hopefully, business momentum — promise to be constant as well.

Healey-Driscoll Administration Celebrates Five Years of Career Technical Initiative

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

ANDOVER — This week, the Healey-Driscoll administration celebrated five years of the Career Technical Initiative (CTI), a statewide workforce program that has partnered with 34 vocational technical schools to expand access to high-quality training in the trades, construction, and manufacturing sectors, reaching more than 4,600 unemployed and underemployed adult participants to date.

The CTI grant program partners with career and technical education (CTE) schools to provide adult learners, especially unemployed and underemployed individuals from underserved populations and underrepresented groups, with career training and technical skills to meet the needs of Massachusetts employers. The CTI program continues to serve as a collaborative initiative of the state’s Workforce Skills Cabinet.

“Programs like the Career Technical Initiative create real opportunities for adult learners by pairing practical, hands-on learning with skills employers are looking for in today’s economy,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “By combining hands-on training, outstanding CTE schools, and strong employer partnerships, CTI has helped open doors to high-demand careers in construction, the trades, and manufacturing, setting residents up for success today and for years to come.”

Since its launch, CTI has awarded nearly $70 million in grants to 34 schools statewide. More than 4,600 adult participants have enrolled, adding thousands of skilled workers to the Massachusetts workforce. The program has expanded from 10 vocational technical schools in its first year to 34 schools today. Across the program’s first five years, CTI has achieved an 85% completion rate, with 100% of completers earning an industry-recognized credential.

Since 2023, the Healey-Driscoll administration has awarded $53 million in CTI grants, projected to train more than 6,090 unemployed and underemployed individuals.

“Over the past five years, the CTI program has demonstrated strategic ways to train and prepare untapped talent for current and future workforce needs across Massachusetts,” Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones said. “This program has been an impactful tool to build our workforce and a great example of leveraging existing resources through our vocational technical schools to increase access and opportunities as we strengthen our skilled workforce.”

Added Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler, “as CTI marks five years of impact, it continues to show how our education system can support a strong, job-ready workforce. By opening up career and technical education schools for adult training and aligning programs with industry needs, this initiative is delivering meaningful results for learners, employers, and communities throughout Massachusetts.”

OneHolyoke CDC Hosts 10th Annual Community Dinner Celebration at Kelly School

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

HOLYOKE — OneHolyoke CDC hosted hundreds of Holyoke residents at its 10th annual Holyoke Community Dinner Celebration on Dec. 13 at Kelly School. This year’s event was the most well-attended to date, with more than 115 volunteers also participating.

OneHolyoke has been hosting its free Community Dinner for the past decade, bringing together hundreds of Holyoke residents. The theme for this year’s Community Dinner was “Polar Express, Journey Through Time,” and more than 450 meals were served to the community. The event also featured a DJ, bingo, fun activities for children including a bounce house, and, fitting with the theme of this year’s event, a train to give children rides. There were also visits from Santa and the Grinch. After the event, four trays of food were brought to the warming shelter and men’s shelter at Providence Ministries.

A committee of Holyoke residents and community organizations worked with OneHolyoke to organize this event, including Holyoke Media, MassHire, Holyoke Public Schools, Enlace de Familias, and the Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative.

The annual Community Dinner was also supported by nearly 30 sponsoring community organizations and businesses, including bankESB, Blossom Flower, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Holyoke Community College, Holyoke Housing Authority, Holyoke Medical Center, Holyoke Public Library, Holyoke Tax Service, Homework House, Hope Worldwide, Lawler Insurance, MassHire, Mass in Motion, Master Heo’s Tae Kwon Do Child Care, Pat Duffy for State Representative, PeoplesBank, River Valley Counseling Center, Rolling J’s, Scouting America, Sublime Systems, and the Verb is Herb.

Holyoke Community College Opens Registration for Spring Non-credit Classes

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) has opened registration for its spring 2026 catalog of non-credit personal enrichment and professional development classes.

The spring calendar begins Jan. 12, with individual classes running on different schedules throughout the semester.

New next semester is a series of classes for seniors focused on basic technology. Each one-hour class is available for $20 and covers a wide range of subjects, including Windows 11, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Canva (for graphic design), artificial intelligence, Zoom, smartphone use (Android or iPhone), managing and editing photos, document storage, web browsers, and computer scams.

Other classes for spring include cooking (Caribbean, charcuterie, Puerto Rican, Southern), wine tasting (winter reds, Tuscany, New Zealand, Rose, summer wines), sewing (for beginners), sewing (machine), watercolor painting, acrylic painting, drawing, piano, conversational French, conversational Spanish, music technology, voiceover coaching, financial literacy, retirement planning, K-12 education (professional development), writing and publishing (fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, short stories, query letters, mysteries, travel, blogs), ChatGPT, how to launch a pet-sitting and dog-walking business, and QuickBooks.

Most classes meet in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on the main HCC campus, 303 Homestead Ave. Cooking and wine tasting classes meet at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St. Some classes meet over Zoom.

To see complete spring course listings and schedules, or to register, visit hcc.edu/bcs. More classes will be added as spring approaches.

North Brookfield Savings Bank Celebrates Successful Food Drive, Toy Drive

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

NORTH BROOKFIELD — In the spirit of season of giving, North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) announced the success of its annual food and toy drives, made possible by the generosity of its customers, community members, and employees. These initiatives reflect the bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities it serves and making the holidays brighter for those in need.

During the annual food drive, the bank’s communities came together to donate more than 950 non-perishable food items and more than $1,000 in monetary donations to support families in need. These donations have provided crucial assistance to individuals facing food insecurity. To further amplify the impact, NBSB contributed an additional $3,000 in support of the food pantry operations.

NBSB’s annual food drive benefited the following food pantries: East Brookfield Baptist Church Food Pantry, Sharing Cupboard Food Pantry – First Congregational Church, St. Joseph’s Parish Food Pantry, First Congregational Church of North Brookfield, Trinity Episcopal Church – Jubilee Cupboard, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Food Pantry, and Palmer Food Share Inc.

The generosity from the bank’s communities continued through the annual toy drive, as community members, employees, and neighbors stepped up to the plate again to donate more than 430 toys for children in need, alongside more than $1,600 in monetary donations. To extend this support further, NBSB contributed an additional $1,250 to support those who need it the most and bring joy to children in the communities it serves this holiday season.

NBSB’s annual toy drive benefited the following toy organizations: North Brookfield Police Assoc. Toys for Joy Program, East Brookfield Toys for Joy Program, West Brookfield Police Assoc. Holiday Toy Program, Ware Police Department Christmas for Kids Program, Belchertown Firefighters Assoc. Adopt-a-Family Program, and Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program.

“Community is at the heart of everything that we do, and the success of this year’s food and toy drives is a testament to the compassion and generosity of our customers, employees, and community members,” said Audrey Shampine, Marketing manager at North Brookfield Savings Bank. “We are proud to come together to create a positive difference for those in need during this season of giving.”

Basketball Hall of Fame to Host World Basketball Day Youth Clinic

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in partnership with the NBA, will host a youth basketball clinic in celebration of the third annual World Basketball Day on Sunday, Dec. 21 on Center Court, with a special guest appearance by former NBA Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams.

As part of a series of clinics happening across the country, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame will welcome 85 students in grades 4-6 from the YMCA of Greater Springfield and Libertas Academy to honor the game’s global legacy and origins. Students will participate in skill training drills and receive a catered lunch, Jr. NBA T-shirts, and a take-home gift. The event is designed to introduce the core values of basketball to young athletes through teamwork, leadership, and inclusion.

This year’s World Basketball Day celebration also coincides with the 175th anniversary of the YMCA, the organization where James Naismith introduced the game of basketball in 1891 as an employee at the third U.S. YMCA International Training School in Springfield. In recognition of this historic connection, the YMCA of USA will present a $2,500 gift to the YMCA of Greater Springfield, acknowledging its longstanding commitment to youth development and its foundational role in the creation of the sport.

“World Basketball Day celebrates the impact of basketball and the game’s ability to unite a global community,” said John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “This day recognizes the invention of the game in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith at the YMCA International Training Academy here in Springfield. The YMCA’s early stewardship helped turn his modest creation into the worldwide sporting phenomenon we know it as today. We are proud to commemorate this day by honoring the game’s original values and intent while also celebrating its milestones, growth, and continued legacy.”

Established by the United Nations in 2023, World Basketball Day is observed annually on Dec. 21, the date Naismith first introduced basketball. The day celebrates the game’s remarkable ability to bring people together across cultures, countries, and generations as the fastest-growing sport in the world. Through engaging young athletes locally and nationwide, the Basketball Hall of Fame continues its mission to share and highlight basketball’s lasting impact on youth development, teamwork, and global unity.

The Good Dog Spot, Leadfoot Brewing Team Up for Howliday Yappy Hour

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Good Dog Spot and Leadfoot Brewing are teaming up to spread holiday cheer with wagging tails and festive fun at this year’s Howliday Yappy Hour on Friday, Dec. 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. The community is invited to celebrate the season, sip local brews, and support pets in need, all in one joyful night.

This event, hosted by Leadfoot Brewing, 95 North Chicopee St., Chicopee, brings together two Chicopee favorites for a shared mission: giving local animal lovers and their pups a fun, festive place to gather and raising funds for the Foundation for TJO Animals. Guests can enjoy a locally crafted brew from Leadfoot while the Good Dog Spot offers a photo with the Grinch for a small donation to support local pets through the Foundation for TJO Animals.

In addition to the Grinch photos, ugly holiday sweaters are encouraged, so attendees are encouraged to bring their cheeriest and quirkiest attire to spread extra festive cheer. Adding to the merriment, live music will be provided by the Brothers by Law Duo.

“We love collaborating with local businesses who share our passion for community,” said Shannon O’Connell, facility manager at the Good Dog Spot in Chicopee. “Leadfoot Brewing is a terrific neighbor and a perfect place to bring everyone together for a night of celebration.”

Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Opens Voting for Winter Window-land Decorating Contest

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Downtown Pittsfield Inc. (DPI) announced that voting for its Winter Window-land Decorating Contest will be open through Dec. 27.

First-floor locations in downtown Pittsfield were invited to compete for the title of Best Decorated Windows for the Holidays in this free contest sponsored by RSI Signs and Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Those who signed up as participating locations below will be eligible to be voted upon. No write-ins are allowed.

Click here to vote online. Voters are be able to vote for their top three favorites. Only one ballot will be counted per person.

Participating locations include Berkshire Carousel, 50 Center St.; Berkshire County Arc, 700 North St.; Berkshire Graphics Inc., 239 Wahconah St.; Brothership Building, 141 North St.; Deidre’s Special Day, 2 South St., Suite 100; FaceFrame Collective, 437 North St.; Local Appliance, 419 North St.; Nene’s Deco, 144 South St.; Peace Train Tees, 2 South St., Suite 150; Solarium, 46 West St.; Steven Valenti’s Clothing, 157 North St.; This & That Sports, 128 Fenn St.; and Thistle ‘n Thorn Floral, 393 North St.

RSI Signs is offering a $500 store credit as the prize for the winner of the Best Decorated Windows for the Holidays — think custom A-frame signs, business cards, stickers, vehicle graphics, flyers, posters, and more.

Picture This

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Picture This

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

Planting Seeds for STEM

Girls Inc. of the Valley received a $10,000 grant from the Liberty Bank Foundation Inc. to support the organization’s Eureka! program, which promotes STEM and college access for girls. Eureka! is a five-year program that immerses middle- and high-school girls in hands-on STEM learning while also fostering personal development, career exploration, and college readiness opportunities.

Pictured, from left: Dawn Creighton of Liberty Bank; Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker; Girls Inc. participants; and Payton Reyes, Lakisha Coppedge, and Darryl Bonner of Girls Inc.

Toward Healthier Homes

Westfield Bank recently announced a $5,000 donation to Revitalize CDC, a Springfield-based nonprofit that works to stabilize homes and strengthen neighborhoods across Western Mass. The donation will help fuel the organization’s efforts in home repairs, accessibility modifications, and energy efficiency upgrades, moving neighborhoods forward and supporting people who otherwise may not have access to such resources.

Pictured, from left: Revitalize CDC’s Chelsea McGrath and President and CEO Colleen Shanley-Loveless, Westfield Bank’s Sherleen Crespo, and Revitalize CDC’s Ethel Griffin.

Where’s the Beef?

Every year, the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) board of trustees donates beef purchased at the Big E’s 4-H Beef Sale to organizations that combat food insecurity in Western Mass. On Nov. 20, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, accompanied by West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt and members of the ESE staff, visited the Parish Cupboard, Open Pantry, and Friends of the Homeless to donate the beef. Each food shelter received more than 300 pounds of beef to help those in need in Greater Springfield.

Pictured, from left: ESE’s Anne-Alise Pietruska, Elena Hovagimian, and Cassidy; Parish Cupboard Executive Director Bob Fastie; Reichelt; Parish Cupboard board member Chip Arnold; and ESE’s Steve Ferraro.

People on the Move

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Picture This

Brett Brbovic

MountainOne announced the appointment of Brett Brbovic as senior vice president and chief financial officer of MountainOne Financial, MHC and its subsidiary, MountainOne Bank. Brbovic will join the leadership team operating from the company’s headquarters in North Adams. In his capacity as chief financial officer, Brbovic oversees MountainOne’s financial strategy, operational efficiency, and balance sheet risk management. Reporting directly to President and CEO Robert Fraser, he works closely with other senior leaders to align financial and operational goals with the organization’s strategic vision. Brbovic joins MountainOne with more than 18 years of experience in the financial services industry. A graduate of Western New England University with a master’s degree in accounting, his career spans leadership roles in accounting, financial strategy, and executive management, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief financial officer of Berkshire Bank and its parent company, Berkshire Hills Bancorp. He succeeds Steve Owens, who announced his retirement from MountainOne following a 14-year tenure as chief financial officer, chief operating officer, and chief information officer.

•••••

Michael Deere

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. announced that attorney Michael Deere has joined the firm as an associate. Deere, who officially began on Sept. 8, will support the firm’s work across estate planning, bankruptcy, and probate litigation, with an anticipated long-term focus in trusts and estates. Deere brings a distinctive professional background shaped by nearly 20 years in academia. Prior to entering the legal field, he served as an associate professor of philosophy at Salem State University, where he spent 18 years teaching, researching, and directing curriculum, including 10 years as director of Bioethics Programming and three years as department chair. His scholarship and presentations have been featured nationally and internationally, including invited talks in Italy, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. During his tenure, Deere taught courses in ethics, existentialism, philosophy of art, logic, writing at all levels, and critical reasoning. He later designed and taught courses in legal reasoning, legal writing, and analytical thinking, experience he now applies directly in his legal practice. A non-traditional law student, Deere attended Boston College Law School, where he earned his juris doctorate in 2025. He was a contributor to the law school’s “Impact” blog and continued to teach full-time during his legal studies. He previously earned a PhD in philosophy from Penn State University, funded by the prestigious Jacob Javits Fellowship, and holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and psychology from Oglethorpe University in Atlanta.

•••••

Country Bank announced the promotions of Ben Leonard, Pat O’Hara, Ryan Nauman, and Sam Pursey. Leonard was promoted to senior vice president, commercial banking executive. He will lead the Western and Eastern Commercial Banking teams, oversee targeted commercial growth strategies, and drive cross-functional sales alignment. With more than 24 years of experience, he previously served as team leader for the Western Region. He held senior leadership roles at Wells Fargo Bank. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Wells Fargo’s Credit Management Training Program, he also serves as vice chair on the board of Revitalize CDC. O’Hara was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking team leader – East Region. He will lead the Worcester-based commercial team, manage a portfolio of business clients, and expand Country Bank’s commercial presence in key regional markets. With more than two decades of experience at Citizens Bank, Santander, and Bank of America, he brings deep market knowledge and strong local business relationships, supported by active involvement with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Corridor 9/495 Chamber of Commerce. Nauman was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking. He has been a key contributor to Country Bank for seven years, building strong relationships and supporting local businesses. With more than 27 years of experience, his deep ties to the Greater Springfield and Connecticut business communities will continue to drive growth and strengthen the bank’s regional presence. Pursey was promoted to vice president, Commercial Banking. A nine-year member of the Country Bank team, he serves businesses in the Worcester market with a consultative, community-centered lending style. His volunteer work, including Be Like Brit in Haiti and numerous hours spent with nonprofit efforts throughout Massachusetts, exemplifies the mank’s mission to make a difference.

•••••

Brian Canina

At its recent annual meeting, the members of the Connecticut Bankers Assoc. (CBA) unanimously elected the association’s officers and board members for the 2025-26 term, including Brian Canina, president and chief operating officer of PeoplesBank, as a director at-large. Joining PeoplesBank in 2009, Canina has since served in a variety of positions, including controller, executive vice president, chief financial officer, and treasurer before becoming president and COO in 2024. Prior to joining the bank, he served as an audit senior manager at Wolf & Company, P.C. The mutual bank he leads has more than $4 billion in assets and 21 banking centers in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. PeoplesBank is expected to open two additional banking centers in New Britain and Hartford, Conn., as well as an operations center at the Hartford City Place II location, in 2026. Canina is a graduate of Bryant University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, and CIS. He also attended the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking and holds a certificate in executive leadership and strategic thinking issued by the Wharton School.

•••••

Stone & Lime Historic Restoration Services, a landmark restoration specialist, announced it has hired Justin Billings to join its leadership team as vice president of Operations. Billings will oversee historically sensitive and landmark restoration projects across the Stone & Lime portfolio, which includes significant preservation programs among both public and private clients. Billings joins Stone & Lime after two decades in construction management with one of the region’s largest general contractors, managing both new construction and renovation projects. His passion for preservation makes him a natural fit for the Stone & Lime leadership team, and he has overseen notable projects like the restoration of the Trinity College Long Walk, multiple renovation and restoration projects at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, and repairs and updates to the Travelers Tower, all in Hartford, Conn. In addition to his deep project management experience, Billings is also a LEED-certified professional. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

•••••

Keith Tatlock

Keith Tatlock, CFP of Command Wealth Management, has earned recognition as a 2026 Signature Club qualifier by its financial solutions firm, Cambridge Investment Research Inc. The Signature Club distinction acknowledges financial professionals who demonstrate excellence in serving clients while upholding the independent spirit the defines Cambridge, the firm noted. The 2026 Signature Club conference in Bonita Springs, Fla. brings together qualifiers and Cambridge senior leadership for a multi-day event focused on growth, connection, and shared learning. Featuring networking opportunities, interactive educational sessions, and thought-provoking speakers, the conference offers participants the opportunity to gain fresh insight and deepen their industry expertise, empowering them to continue serving their clients at the highest level.

•••••

James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank, announced the promotion of Michael Harrington to senior vice president and senior lender for the state of Massachusetts. This appointment recognizes his consistent and strong leadership and his impact on the bank’s growth and success. Harrington, who previously served as senior vice president and team leader of Middle Market CRE Lending, has been promoted to senior lender and will be responsible for the bank’s commercial lending activities in the state of Massachusetts, including overseeing the bank’s Massachusetts portfolio and new business development, as well as handling his current duties. With more than 33 years of banking and commercial lending experience, Harrington joined Westfield Bank in 2007. Prior to that, he served as a commercial lender and credit analyst at the former Westbank.

•••••

Following a merger with Cain Hibbard & Meyers on Dec. 1, Bulkley Richardson welcomed seven new attorneys to the firm, including five partners and two counsel. Lucy Prashker, partner, counsels clients on a wide variety of business and intellectual property issues. Much of her practice is devoted to advising clients in the fields of health law, nonprofit law, and general business law, where her clients include artists and writers, manufacturers, emerging technology companies, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare providers. She is also an experienced litigator, handling complex commercial and employment cases in both state and federal courts in Massachusetts and New York. Vicki Donahue, partner, represents businesses and individuals in the purchase and sale of businesses, commercial financing (including tax-exempt bonds and historic tax credit financing), corporate governance, and general business counseling. She has experience in solar projects, representing property owners through drafting and negotiating leases and power purchase agreements for large-scale solar installations. She also has an active residential and commercial real estate practice, including zoning analysis and permitting, environmental law, commercial real estate development, and tax abatements and tax appeals. Dennis LaRochelle, partner, has close to three decades of experience handling complex litigation and has successfully litigated several multi-million-dollar disputes in the Massachusetts federal and state courts, earning a reputation as one of the top trial lawyers in Berkshire County. With proficiency in family law, he regularly represents clients in all aspects of domestic relationships, from divorce and child custody disputes to drafting prenuptial agreements and divorce settlements, as well as guardianships to adoptions, resolving disputes creatively and effectively. Jennifer Carpenter, partner, is an accomplished litigator, responsible for cases in both state and federal courts. She has extensive experience representing hospitals, long-term care and residential treatment facilities, and families as they navigate the nuanced and often complex guardianship process. Jeff O’Connor, partner, is a seasoned litigator, trial lawyer, and strategic counselor. For more than 15 years, he has guided medical and legal professionals, businesses, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations through complex civil litigation, agency proceedings, risk management challenges, and regulatory minefields. Diane DeGiacomo, counsel, is an experienced trial and domestic relations lawyer. She has defended businesses in employment discrimination complaints statewide before the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination and the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission, and has tried civil cases in federal court, superior court, and probate court regularly. Susan Herman, counsel, has more than 40 years of trial and appellate experience in both the public and private sectors. She spent much of her career with the Maine Office of the Attorney General, where she advised state agencies and represented the state of Maine in state and federal court on a variety of civil matters. In 2015, she was named division chief for the Civil Litigation Division of the Maine Attorney General’s Office, handling constitutional challenges to state laws and rules, civil rights cases, tort claims, civil appeals, amicus, and multi-state litigation. In 2019, the attorney general named Herman chief deputy for the office, where she worked closely with the attorney general on high-priority and sensitive matters relating to client state agencies, the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, and members of the public. Four years later, she was nominated by Maine’s governor to serve as a member of Maine’s Civil Service Appeals Board, which was confirmed by the Maine Senate, and the governor appointed her chair of the board. In 2024, she was reappointed and confirmed for an additional four-year term.

•••••

Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced the promotion of eight team members to new leadership roles within its branch network. They include Diane Afonso, assistant vice president, area manager; Zaneta Grasakis, assistant vice president, area manager; Ela Vickers, branch manager II and IRA manager; Betzaida Gonzalez, branch manager, Front Street, Chicopee; Carmen Santos, branch manager, Wilbraham; Nathan O’Connor, branch manager, East Longmeadow; Diany Morales, assistant branch manager, Wilbraham; and Elizabeth Henke, assistant branch manager, Hampden. These leaders bring decades of combined experience in retail banking, member service, operations, and community engagement.

•••••

Tim Grader

Colleen Kucinski

Hannah Rechtschaffen

Mary Siano

At its November meeting, the Greenfield Community College (GCC) Foundation welcomed four new members to its board: Tim Grader, Colleen Kucinski, Hannah Rechtschaffen, and Mary Siano. Grader, a real estate investor, broker, and property manager, is the owner of Cohn & Co. Real Estate and Stillwater Real Estate Services. A GCC alumnus, he brings a deep commitment to regional revitalization, historic preservation, and lifelong learning. Kucinski, executive director of the Literacy Project, has spent more than 25 years advancing educational access through leadership in higher education and philanthropy, including 18 years at GCC and eight years at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. Rechtschaffen, executive director of the Greenfield Business Assoc., is a leader in creative placemaking and community development. Her background includes strategic roles with W.D. Cowls and the Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation, where she built partnerships that drive local economic growth. Siano, a social worker and civic leader, has dedicated her career to community service and advocacy. She has served on local boards and committees including the Greenfield School Committee, the Community Health Center of Franklin County, the Literacy Project, and the League of Women Voters of the Greenfield Area. A longtime GCC volunteer and annual campaign co-chair, she continues to strengthen community engagement across Franklin County. Departing members Deb Berryere (president), Ann Barker (vice president), Jacqui Zuzgo, and Savitri Rambissoon were recognized for their commitment to the college and the foundation’s mission of supporting student success. Succeeding them in leadership, the board elected James Fitzgerald as president and Jane Wolfe as vice president. Fitzgerald and Wolfe both joined the foundation board in 2023 and bring experience in business and community service.

•••••

Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Professor of Business Anthony Rondinelli has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for his dedication, achievements, and leadership in accounting and education. Rondinelli graduated from STCC with an associate degree in business administration and finance and was recognized in the National Dean’s List for academic achievement. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Westfield State University and two master’s degrees in management and accountancy from Western New England University, graduating summa cum laude. He built a wide-ranging career in business and finance, serving as a district sales and marketing manager for Stop & Shop supermarkets and later holding senior consulting and accounting positions with MassMutual Financial Group, Lincoln Financial Group, GE Financial Assurance, and Corbin & Tapases, P.C. In 2013, after several years teaching part-time at local colleges, Rondinelli returned to STCC as an adjunct professor and then became a full-time faculty member in 2014. Today, he is a full professor of Business, teaching a range of courses in accounting, personal income tax, finance, marketing, and management, and advising students in STCC’s Business Club. He is also president of Anthony Rondinelli Tax and Accounting Services LLC, which provides tax and accounting support for individuals, small businesses, and nonprofits; contributes regularly to online personal finance platforms; and serves on numerous campus committees and the STCC Foundation board.

•••••

MassMutual announced it has elected Michael Rollings to the company’s board of directors. Rollings most recently served as chief financial officer and managing director of Finance at the Vanguard Group, a position he held from 2016 until his retirement this past June. In that role, he led financial strategy and planning for the global asset investment manager with more than $11 trillion in assets under management and oversaw more than 1,800 people across corporate financial functions, including treasury, financial planning and analysis, accounting operations, and fund financial services. During his tenure, he served as a strategic advisor to Vanguard’s CEO, board of directors, and other key stakeholders, while also leading a transformation of the company’s corporate and fund financial operations to best support investment and shareholder return. Prior to his time at Vanguard, Rollings held leadership roles at MassMutual for 15 years, including leading the company’s Capital Markets and Treasury Operations team and serving as chief financial officer from 2006 to 2016. He has served on several boards throughout his career, including the Financial Accounting Foundation, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield Museums, and the Georgetown University board of regents. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Georgetown University and a master’s degree in business from Northwestern University’s J.L. Kellogg School of Management.

•••••

Courtney Robbins

Community Bank welcomed Courtney Robbins as branch and Community Development manager of the bank’s newest Massachusetts location at 1387 Boston Road in Springfield. She will lead strategies to support branch growth and expand business opportunities, while also handling day-to-day operations and guiding staff hiring and training. She will play a key role in fostering relationships with customers and community partners; delivering comprehensive personal, business, and government banking products and solutions; and supporting the bank’s continued expansion throughout Western Mass. Before joining Community Bank, she was a leader at several other financial institutions, overseeing daily operations, managing staff and business development, and maintaining branch profitability. Robbins is active in the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, Randall’s Ludlow Boys and Girls Club, Rick’s Place, and Dress for Success. She earned her degree in accounting from Framingham State University.

•••••

Corrine (Corky) Sysun

UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced that Corrine (Corky) Sysun has joined the credit union as a senior business relationship manager on the Commercial Services team. Sysun brings more than 20 years of experience in business banking and commercial lending, most recently serving as a Business Banking officer at TD Bank. Her expertise includes commercial real estate and commercial and industrial lending. Earlier in her career, she spent more than a decade as a branch manager and Business Development manager. In her new role, Sysun will work closely with members and community partners to grow commercial relationships, support lending initiatives, and contribute to UMassFive’s strategic goals.

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Company Notebook

MountainOne, Mechanics Receive Approvals to Merge

NORTH ADAMS, TAUNTON — MountainOne Financial, MHC, the mutual holding company parent of MountainOne Bank, and Mechanics Bancorp, MHC, the mutual holding company parent of Mechanics Cooperative Bank, announced that all regulatory approvals required to complete the merger of the two mutual holding companies have been received. The merger transaction is scheduled to take place on Jan. 1, at which time the newly combined mutual holding company will operate under the name MountainOne Financial, MHC, and will have approximately $1.9 billion in assets. MountainOne Bank and Mechanics Cooperative Bank will continue to operate as two separate, independently chartered community banks, and will each retain their existing names, headquarters locations, leadership teams, and boards of directors. Furthermore, customers will not experience any disruption, nor do they need to take any action. Upon completion of the merger, Robert Fraser will serve as chairman, and Joseph Baptista Jr. will be president and CEO, of the combined mutual holding company, MountainOne Financial, MHC. Fraser will continue in his role as president and CEO of MountainOne Bank, and Baptista will also remain as president and CEO of Mechanics Cooperative Bank. There are no staff reductions associated with the merger.

BrightBridge, Arrha Credit Union Members Approve Merger

LAWRENCE, SPRINGFIELD — The members of BrightBridge Credit Union and Arrha Credit Union voted in favor of merging the two financial organizations, following separate member votes at each organization’s corporate headquarters. BrightBridge will be the continuing credit union, with Arrha changing its name to Arrha Credit Union, a Division of BrightBridge Credit Union. The newly merged credit union will have 23 retail branches, combined assets of nearly $2.4 billion, and approximately 125,000 members. The merger will combine the resources, expertise, and values of two long-standing and like-minded credit unions. The merger is expected to be finalized on Jan. 1, 2026, pending regulatory approval. Built on a shared commitment to outstanding service, competitive financial solutions, and meaningful community engagement, this partnership allows BrightBridge to broaden its reach, now serving members in Massachusetts’ Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties, as well as Hartford and Tolland counties in Connecticut. In 2019, 2020, 2023, and 2025, BrightBridge completed successful mergers with Bridgewater Credit Union, Ocean Spray Employees Federal Credit Union, RTN Federal Credit Union, and Cabot Boston Credit Union, respectively.

March for the Food Bank Raises More Than $830,000

CHICOPEE — The 16th annual March for the Food Bank on Nov. 24-25 raised more than $830,000 after two days and more than 43 miles on foot. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts blew past its ambitious $650,000 goal this year. Because every dollar helps create the equivalent of two nutritious meals, this year’s March will provide more than 1.5 million meals to families, elders, and children in all four counties. This year’s march was full of milestones. It welcomed the largest group of marchers in event history, achieved the highest fundraising total ever, and launched the region’s first Berkshire Mini-March in Pittsfield, drawing crowds, energy, and enthusiasm. With momentum at its peak, the Food Bank has raised its march goal to $1 million and will continue accepting donations through Dec. 31. Donations to the March for the Food Bank can be made by visiting www.marchforthefoodbank.org.

Mayflower Marathon Raises $260,000 for Open Pantry

SPRINGFIELD — Rock 102 (WAQY-FM) conducted its 32nd annual Mayflower Marathon food drive at MGM Springfield in the three days leading up to Thanksgiving, raising $260,000 in food and cash donations — a new record for the long-running tradition. Morning hosts Bax & Nagle powered through 52 hours of broadcasting, rallying listeners to donate non-perishable food items to benefit Open Pantry Community Services of Springfield. With food insecurity affecting more than 50% of households across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, the need for support has never been greater. The Mayflower Marathon’s success is fueled by unwavering community involvement. Local residents and businesses stepped up in a big way, including major partners like the Springfield Thunderbirds, Capitol Relocation and Logistics, Xfinity, Camping World of West Hatfield, Arment Trucking, and many more. Thanks to their efforts, four tractor trailers were filled with food, helping Open Pantry meet the growing demand for assistance. This year’s drive was dedicated to former Rock 102 morning co-host and Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Famer John O’Brien, who passed away recently after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer. He helped launch this event 32 years ago, and it will continue for many years to come in his honor.

D.A. Sullivan & Sons Inc. Named a Top Place to Work

NORTHAMPTON — D.A. Sullivan & Sons Inc. (DAS) has been named one of the 2025 Top Places to Work in Massachusetts in the 18th annual employee-based survey from the Boston Globe. The Top Places to Work issue is online at globe.com/topplaces and will appear in Globe Magazine on Sunday, Dec. 7. Top Places to Work celebrates the most admired workplaces in the state voted on by the people who know them best — their employees. The survey measures employee opinions about their company’s direction, execution, connection, management, work, pay, benefits, and engagement. DAS is recognized in the Small Business category with 50 to 99 employees.

Greylock Selects Berkshire County Kids’ Place for $20,000 Award

PITTSFIELD — On Nov. 5, Lori Goodell, senior vice president of Greylock Insurance Agency (GIA), presented a $20,000 check to Berkshire County Kids’ Place at the 20th anniversary celebration of Arbella Insurance Foundation, which funded the grant. GIA, which partners with Arbella Insurance, was one of 20 nonprofit organizations across New England invited to apply for the grant, and one of 10 to be selected to give away $20,000 to a nonprofit of their choice. Berkshire County Kids’ Place provides a safe, home-like environment for victims of child abuse and their non-offending family members. In 2025, regional nonprofits have faced heightened financial pressure, with many experiencing budget shortfalls and rising demand for services. The Arbella Insurance Foundation’s 20th anniversary initiative provides both funding and awareness to help address these challenges and celebrate organizations that are committed to making a lasting difference.

WNE, Bay Path Launch Articulation Agreement

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University (WNE) and Bay Path University have signed a new articulation agreement that creates a streamlined academic pathway between two rapidly expanding fields, genetic counseling and pharmacogenomics. The partnership is designed to support the significant regional workforce demand for professionals trained in precision medicine, genomic testing, and personalized therapeutics. Under the agreement, WNE will reserve at least two seats annually in its master of science in pharmacogenomics (MSPGx) program for qualified graduates of Bay Path’s master of science in genetic counseling (MSGC) program. Conversely, Bay Path will reserve at least five interview seats in its MSGC program annually for WNE MSPGx graduates. Students accepted through this pathway will also receive six transfer credits toward the MSPGx or MSGC degree, which may reduce the cost of their graduate studies. To qualify for the reserved seats and transfer credits, interested students must meet established academic standards, including maintaining at least a 3.5 GPA and completing designated prerequisite coursework. Applications for the pathway must be submitted by April 1 each year. The agreement also outlines joint recruitment and advising initiatives, including co-hosted virtual and in-person information sessions to ensure students understand the academic requirements and career opportunities in both fields.

Rocky’s Ace Hardware Customers Round Up for Animal Shelters

SPRINGFIELD — Rocky’s Ace Hardware announced the results of its annual Round Up for Pets fundraiser. Customers at participating Rocky’s stores in Western Mass. helped raise a total of $7,663.06, while stores nationwide collected a combined $45,646.45. These donations will go directly to care for rescued and surrendered animals, ensuring their needs are met as they wait for their forever homes. Participating Rocky’s locations included the stores on Island Pond Road and Liberty Street in Springfield and the stores in Agawam, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, Palmer, South Hadley, and Westfield. Local shelters benefiting from the year’s round-up include the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center and Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society in Springfield, Second Chance Animal Services in East Brookfield, and Westfield Animal Control and Shelter.

MountainOne Donates $25,000 for Food, Fuel Assistance

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced it will donate $25,000 to local community organizations across the Berkshire County and South Shore regions to assist with combating food insecurity and providing winter fuel assistance. This financial commitment arrives at a moment when many local partners are seeing record need. Rising fuel costs have pushed many households to the edge, and increasing demand at food pantries has led to strained resources. MountainOne is stepping in with funding that will help keep homes warm and ensure families have access to healthy meals. In Berkshire County, MountainOne will contribute $10,000 to local food pantries, including Thanksgiving Angels Inc., Berkshire Grown Inc., Berkshire Food Project Inc., Al Nelson Food Pantry, and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. In the South Shore region, MountainOne will contribute $5,000 to local food pantries, including End Hunger New England, which provides meal packages for South Shore Food Pantries, as well as the Rockland Emergency Food Pantry, Interfaith Social Services, and the Scituate Food Pantry. Lastly, MountainOne will direct its $10,000 donation for fuel assistance to the Pittsfield Area Council of Congregations (PACC) Hearth and Home Fuel Fund.

Bulkley Richardson Raises $11,000 to Battle Food Insecurity

SPRINGFIELD — Bulkley Richardson holds an annual campaign to raise funds for the United Way of Pioneer Valley through personal contributions from attorneys and staff. The campaign has become a tradition at the firm for many reasons, making an impact in the local community. This year’s campaign donations will go directly to battling food insecurity. The temporary increases to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits that were provided during the pandemic have now ended, leaving families across the Pioneer Valley with a significant reduction in their monthly food assistance at a time when grocery prices remain high. This means more households are struggling to keep food on the table and are turning to community resources for help.

Mama G’s Halal Platters, Frozen D Lite Open at Mall

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mall recently welcomed two new eateries to the center, Mama G’s Halal Platters and Frozen D Lite. Mama G’s Halal Platters is now open on the JCPenney wing of the upper level, next to Pretzelmaker. It offers Middle Eastern flavors like chicken, lamb, shrimp, or falafel rice platters; chapli kabob; Indian dishes like chicken tikka and butter chicken; as well as classic American dishes like burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and chicken tenders. All the food will meet halal dietary standards. Frozen D Lite opened recently on the lower level next to Mystery Bins. The snack shop offers a range of treats, from sweet crepes and waffles with ice cream to smoothies, shakes, and frozen yogurt.

Bueno y Sano Celebrates Holyoke Opening with Donation

HOLYOKE — Bueno y Sano marked the grand opening of its eighth location in Holyoke, a milestone event distinguished by a significant act of community support. The new restaurant, notable for being the chain’s first with a female franchise owner, Xiomara Rosa, immediately demonstrated its commitment to the city by making a donation to aid families recently affected by devastating local fires. At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, moved by the recent tragedies that displaced more than 100 residents, Rosa announced a $500 donation to the Enlace de Familias Emergency Fund. Demonstrating a shared commitment to local well-being, Bueno y Sano corporate, represented by founder Bob Lowry, matched the contribution, bringing the total to $1,000 for families in need. This gesture came at a critical time for Holyoke, where two separate fires destroyed approximately 50 apartments, leaving numerous families and their pets without homes or belongings.

Daruma Hosts Grand Opening for Japanese BBQ Restaurant

HOLYOKE — Daruma Japanese BBQ celebrated its grand opening with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 5 at 241 Whiting Farms Road, Holyoke. The event marked the official launch of the first Japanese BBQ establishment in Western Mass., introducing a unique dining concept to the region. The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia were in attendance to welcome the new business to the community. Demonstrating a strong commitment to the community, Daruma recently donated $1,000 to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts through the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce’s food drive. Daruma Japanese BBQ offers an interactive dining experience where guests can grill high-quality meats and vegetables at their own tables. In addition to its signature BBQ, the restaurant features a full sushi menu. Guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi with two distinct options: a regular menu including classic favorites and a premium menu offering upgraded selections for a more elevated dining experience. The owners are also in the process of securing a liquor license.

Hot Plate Brewing Launches Innovative Loyalty Program

PITTSFIELD — Hot Plate Brewing Co., the award-winning, Latina-owned craft brewery known for its community-driven ethos, announced the launch of the Scrum, a first-of-its-kind loyalty program inspired by Agile software development. Instead of a traditional mug club built around spending, the Scrum invites guests to become ‘community developers’ who earn points through participation, engagement, and showing up. Borrowing from the Agile methodology of collaborative ‘sprints,’ the Scrum transforms everyday taproom experiences into opportunities to contribute to the revitalization of downtown Pittsfield. Members earn points for attending events, checking in during visits, taking part in special releases, supporting local businesses and artists, and helping shape the experience of the taproom. Points can then be redeemed for rewards ranging from exclusive merch to special access to exclusive beers, private events, and more. The Scrum is now open for signups. More information is available at www.hotplatebeer.com/the-scrum.

Two Jewish Organizations Fund Emergency Assistance Efforts

PITTSFIELD — Responding to the needs of the nearly 20% of Berkshire neighbors who may face food and fuel insecurity this winter, Jewish Federation of the Berkshires has approved emergency allocations of $11,000 to support food assistance and $10,000 for fuel assistance to help its neighbors across Berkshire County. The Jewish Women’s Foundation of Berkshire County has also approved an emergency allocation of $10,000 to support local food pantries. Together, these allocations represent a $31,000 commitment from the local Berkshire Jewish community to help ensure that neighbors have access to food and warmth during this critical time. Additionally, the Jewish Federation offers affordable kosher meals for older adults (ages 60 and above), which are available for pickup on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at Knesset Israel in Pittsfield through the winter months. Contact the kitchen reservation line at (413) 442-2200 up to 24 hours in advance to reserve a meal for pickup.

Rick’s Place Selected for Community Bank Donation

WILBRAHAM — Rick’s Place, a nonprofit providing free grief support programs for children, teens, and their caregivers, was selected for a community donation by Community Bank, N.A. as the bank prepared to open its new branch on Boston Road in Springfield in early December. During the branch’s soft launch period, Community Bank will donate $25 for every new account or loan opened, with a guaranteed minimum gift of $2,500 to Rick’s Place. Community Bank representatives shared that Rick’s Place was chosen because of the organization’s mission and its long-standing service to local families. Rick’s Place offers peer-based grief support groups for youth ages 5-18 and their caregivers, training for schools and community partners, and resources that help families navigate life after a significant loss. All programs for youth and caregivers are provided at no cost.

Jessy’s Fight Donates $38,820 to D’Amour Center for Cancer Care

SPRINGFIELD — The Sullivan family presented a donation of $38,820.68 to Baystate Health’s D’Amour Center for Cancer Care in Springfield on Nov. 25. The funds represent the combined proceeds from the sixth annual Jessy’s Fight Golf Tournament, held at the Country Club of Wilbraham, and Cloud 9 Marketing Group’s 10-year anniversary fundraiser. Since 2017, Jessy’s Fight has raised money to support patients and families affected by cancer throughout Western Mass. What began as a personal battle has grown into a major community effort driven by family, friends, local businesses, and supporters across the region. This year’s golf tournament was originally rained out and forced to be rescheduled, yet every golfer, sponsor, and supporter returned on the rain date. The donation was presented by John and Jessica Sullivan, their daughters, Willow and Autumn, and Dylan Pilon of Cloud 9 Marketing Group. Jessy’s Fight hopes to bring joy and reassurance to those who feel lost and alone. Jessy has been cancer-free eight years and counting.

Dakin Receives $40,000 Grant from Windsor Charitable Trust

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society has been named a recipient of a 2025 grant in the amount of $40,000 from the Shirley Shattuck Windsor Charitable Trust, whose purpose is to give primarily for the relief of poverty and the prevention of cruelty to animals. The funding will be directed toward the care of feral kittens rescued by Dakin’s Kitten Street Team (KST). The all-volunteer team responds to calls from the public identifying the locations of colonies of feral cats and kittens by going on-site, assessing the cats’ habits and whereabouts, meticulously setting humane traps, and capturing members of each colony, one by one. The cats are brought to Dakin for spay/neuter surgery. Kittens who can be socialized and live as domestic pets are adopted through Dakin. Adult cats, unable to live as domestic pets, are ear-tipped and returned to their colonies using the humane methods of TNR (trap/neuter/return). By curbing the population of feral cats, so many are spared the brutal conditions of outside living: attacks from predators, disease, and harsh elements.

Incorporations

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

The Floor Covering Connector Inc., 441 Silver St., Agawam, MA 01001. Veronica Fiske, same. Floor covering marketing and installation.

ASHFIELD

The Ohketeau Cultural Center Inc., 551 Main St., Ashfield, MA 01330. Larry Spotted Crow Mann, same. Nonprofit educating the general public about the Native American spiritual, cultural, and traditional way of life and bringing together people who are interested in sharing Native American culture, tradition, and indigenous education.

BRIMFIELD

CF Inc., 45 Palmer Road, Brimfield, MA 01010. Caterina Ferrentino, 56 Town Farm Road, Brookfield, MA 01506. Management and operation of an Italian restaurant.

CHICOPEE

Stefanik School PTO Inc., 720 Meadow St., Chicopee, MA 01013. Marisol Nazario, 100 Center St., Chicopee, MA 01013. The Stefanik School PTO promotes the welfare of children at Stefanik School by fostering a cooperative relationship between the school, teachers, parents, and the community, while seeking to enrich the educational experience, encourage parent involvement, and support the school’s objectives through activities, events, and fundraising efforts.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Polite Home Care Inc., 15 Hidden Ponds Dr., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Marlon Polite, 44 Harkness Ave., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Non-medical support to seniors, helping with daily tasks and personal in-home care needs.

FEEDING HILLS

Horeb Health Care Inc., 10 Gary Place, Apt. C, Feeding Hills, MA 01030. David Reji, same. Provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality primary and preventive healthcare services to individuals and families, particularly those who are uninsured, underinsured, or otherwise underserved.

GILL

Beans27 Inc., 180 Main Road, Gill, MA 01354. Michael Leva, same. Restaurant.

HATFIELD
Home Service VA Inc., 2 Prospect St., Hatfield, MA 01038. Melody Edwards, same. Helps business owners hire, train, and manage virtual office assistants.

LENOX

Sugar & Thyme Inc., 65 Church St., Lenox, MA 01240. Tracy Elizabeth Haupt, 33 Anita Dr., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Small retail shop offering a curated selection of local provisions, gourmet foods, specialty gift baskets, and Berkshire-themed gifts and souvenirs.

LUDLOW

Acai Lovers Inc., 8 White St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Cleide Cassemira Dos Santos, 9 Porter Dr., Wilbraham, MA 01095. Milkshakes, smoothies, and ice cream stores.

NORTHAMPTON

Harm Reduction for the Heart Inc., 48 Elm St., Northampton, MA 01060. Aaron Johnson, same. Organization connecting the unhoused and addicts with resources and treatment, while also offering personal development programming.

PALMER

Palmer Diner Inc., 1376 Main St., Palmer, MA 01069. Sorina Sam, 9 Homecrest Ave., Ware, MA 01082. Restaurant business including breakfast and lunch and associated products and services.

PITTSFIELD

Anter Consulting Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Shae Lyon-Fraser, same. Consulting services.

Craniometrix Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Nikhil Patel, same. Dementia support.

Gridcontrolware Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Luis Franco, same. Grid and microgrid load management and control software with dynamic scheduling and remote monitoring.

Lemonde Studio Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Felix Marzell, same. Creation, sale, and rental of art pieces and the operation of an art studio for artistic production and related activities.

Trindade Group Inc., 82 Wendell Ave, Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Leonardo Oliveira, same. General contracting, real estate, property rentals, construction services, and asset holding.

Zul Devinede Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Luz Cancel, same. Event planning services.

SOUTHWICK

Houde Chiropractic Corp., 5 Silvergrass Lane, Southwick, MA 01077. Joseph Houde, same. Chiropractic sports medicine.

SPRINGFIELD

Divalicious Beauty Salon Inc., 2460 Main St., #126, Springfield, MA 01107. Javier Mulero, same. Master hairdresser, coloring, cutting, styling, and shampooing.

Innovations Beyond Inc., 1690 Boston Road, #1064, Springfield, MA 01129. Andrew Mneyergi, same. Internet and technology services.

Ministerio Evangelistico en las Manos del Dios Altisimo Inc., 125 Nursery St., Springfield, MA 01104. David Dominguez, same. Ministry aiming to rescue young people and adults from addiction, as well as helping the incarcerated, the homeless, alcoholics, and other people with needs through preaching and evangelistic work.

Open Guard Outreach Inc., 5 Eton St., Springfield, MA 01108. Zaid Tuffaha, 226 Morton St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Nonprofit gym providing access to affordable fitness classes, strength training, and health education to underserved communities and programs to educate the public about physical health, nutrition, and mental well-being.

Roots and Roofs Inc., 124 Balis St., Springfield, MA 01109. Loleta Collins, same. Nonprofit organization providing access to affordable housing for low- and moderate-income individuals and families; offering education, counseling, and support to first-time homebuyers with the goal of promoting sustainable homeownership; and engaging in community development efforts related to housing equity and economic empowerment.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Korts Inc., 16 Bonair Ave., Apt. 16, West Springfield, MA 01089. Viktor Strok, same. Long-haul trucking.

STR Transport Inc., 16 Bonair Ave., Apt. 16, West Springfield, MA 01089. Hennadii Strok, same. Long-haul trucking.

WILBRAHAM

Spindola Complete Cleaning Care Inc., 3 Weston St., Wilbraham, MA 01095. Lucielle Pires Spindola, same. Corporation engaging in residential and commercial cleaning services, including general cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out services, and related janitorial activities.

Doing Business as Certificates

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

DBA Certificates

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

AMHERST

AD Painting Co.
41B Fearing St.
Dulcineia dos Santos

EasyLife Home Care Services
497 East Pleasant St., Apt. 185
Pamela Batista Gil

Owwtreach
170 East Hadley Road, #52
Fungai Tichawangana

Pioneer Education Strategies LLC
232 Strong St.
Gregory Runyan

Twinkling LLC
28 Amity St., Suite 1F
Huiting Lei

HADLEY

Barstow’s Dairy Store & Bakery
172 Hockanum Road
Steve Barstow

Country Nissan
40 Russell St.
TommyCar Auto Group

Creamy Delights
71 Lawrence Plain Road
Patricia McCarthy

Frosted by KC
1 Jackson Lane
Kimberley Crowell

Hadley Pointe Nursing Rehab & Care
20 North Maple St.
Hadley Center LLC

The Hair Shop of Hadley
8 River Dr.
Anne Trombley Musselwhite

Mitch’s Marina
2 Mitch’s Way
Mervel Broussard

Primo Pizzeria
103 Russell St.
Ismael Alvaradi

HOLYOKE

Beaven Kelly Home
25 Brightside Dr.
Trinity Continuing Care Services Inc.

Chic Salon Beauty Bar Inc.
250 Westfield Road
Jose Ocan

Fem Kollabs
303 High St.
Sandra Vazquez

Helpin Hand Handyman
158 Suffolk St.
Shawn Marsh

Lara Translations
507 Hillside Ave.
Mariana Abert

Lavender Fields Social Club
22 Labrie Lane
Hannah Pryfogle, Marissa Pryfogle

Leary Masonry Solutions
630 Dwight St.
Martin Leary

Luna Designs
402 Hillside Ave.
Laura Pantoja

Pacific Sunwear Stores
50 Holyoke St., Unit B-227
Pacific Sunwear of California

Pioneer Healing Center
98 Lower Westfield Road
Maria Plazas

Print My Case
50 Holyoke St.
Muhammad Nasir

Pupuseria y Antojitos Salvadoreños la Bendicion de Dios
85 Congress Ave.
Elver Acosta

Tiny Light Bakery
72 Pleasant St.
Susan Cornell

NORTHAMPTON

In the Valley Orthodontics
269 Locust St.
Joan Walder

Jaz Tupelo
64 Hatfield St.
Kirstin Dand

Lucy Sunday
1 Short St.
Lucy Sunday

Oriental Bodywork
68 Bradford St., Suite H
Sujun Li

Rebekah Markham LLC
16 Center St., Suite 511
Rebekah Markham LLC

Rigali, Walder & Haughey Orthodontics
269 Locust St.
Joan Walder

Theresa’s Cleaning
54 Deerfield Dr.
Theresa Walsh

Valley Commons
30 Middle St.
Erin DeCou

Wild Chestnut Café
22 Chestnut St.
Melissia LaCharite

Wild Ember Therapy
19 Michelman Ave., Apt. 3
Ethan Sherrerd Wattley

SOUTHWICK

Fern Hallow Holistic Hair
610 College Highway, Suite 15
Justine Bruni

Hair by Bre Couture
320 College Highway, Suite 1
Breanna Page

WESTFIELD

10K Filmmaker
115 Main St.
Grig Cinema LLC

A.J. Virgilio Construction Inc.
86 Medeiros Way
Anthony Virgilio

Burger King
72 Main St.
Quik Foods II Inc.

From Irie to Italy
1029 North Road, Suite 190
Jodi-Ann Lewis

Millie’s Kitchen Pizzeria
1029 North Road
5E & Z LLC

Nails R Us
35 Elm St.
Dung Kim Le

New Leash on Life Dog Grooming
1144 Southampton Road
Rachel Kalis

Pulse AED LLC
30 Court St., #6
Pulse AED LLC

Tobiko
110 Airport Road
Papps Bar & Grill LLC

The TV Doctor
23 Joyce Dr.
David Gomez

Uni Spa LLC
420B Union St.
Uni Spa LLC

WEST SPRINGFIELD

The Dex Collective
420 Amostown Road
The Dex Collective

Doty Riverdale LP
143 Doty Circle
Otter Self Storage

Fantasia Furs
1772 Riverdale St.
KMZ Inc.

Localcraft Concrete Countertops, Microcement and Fine Interior Painting
150 Front St.
Localcraft Concrete Countertops, Microcement and Fine Interior Painting

Lucky Medical Home Care LLC
1111 Elm St.
Lucky Medical Home Care LLC

Max Zeller Furs
1772 Riverdale St.
KMZ Inc.

Revenex RCM
592 Birnie Ave.
Yaashi Global Solution LLC

Talia Wujtewicz Consulting
576 Kings Highway
Talia Wujtewicz Consulting

TJ Maxx
239 Memorial Ave.
The TJX Cos. Inc.

Vital Care of Springfield
144 Doty Circle
Pioneer Valley Infusion LLC

Bankruptcies

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Bankruptcies

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

Acevedo, Dori
131 Beauregard Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/03/2025

Broggi, William J.
28 Mill St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 10/31/2025

Cannarozzi, Samuel
58 Osceola Dr.
Russell, MA 01071
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/05/2025

Coletti, Alyssa Marie
45 Avon Place
Springfield, MA 01105-1402
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/01/2025

Drissi, Myabdelaziz
84 Clairmont Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/04/2025

Dunlap, Nancy Leigh
Miller, Margaret Susan
31 Golden Dr.
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/13/2025

Facteau, Kathleen E.
7 First St.
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/12/2025

Farnham, Tracy
181 North St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Date: 10/31/2025

Fortune, Amanda M.
101 Jeanne Marie St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/05/2025

Frisino, Melissa J.
a/k/a Mastroianni, Melissa J.
92 Colorado St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/03/2025

Galat, Jennifer Mary
PO Box 722
West Warren, MA 01092
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/14/2025

Jaillet, Timothy P.
Jaillet, Nicole M.
115 South Athol Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/11/2025

Perry, Tina Marie
9 Victorian Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/10/2025

Pietras, Wendy Sue
206 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/10/2025

Placzek, Walter
2 Kaolin Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/04/2025

Robertson, Mark D.
144 City View Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/04/2025

Sadler, Eric Evan
271 Silver St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/14/2025

Silverstrand Fitness 1, LLC
434 North Main St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 11
Date: 11/14/2025

Soto, Rafaela
PO Box 650
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/11/2025

Valentin, Hancel R.
45 Itendale St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 10/31/2025

Wakelee, Andrew J.
28 Buckingham St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/13/2025

Real Estate Transactions

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

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

CHARLEMONT

8 North St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Hailey D. Klein
Seller: Elliot J. Henry
Date: 11/13/25

CONWAY

Maggie Bean Dr.
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $1,955,287
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

Old Cricket Hill Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $1,955,287
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

DEERFIELD

608 River Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Pamela A. Scott
Seller: Constance P. Krejmas
Date: 11/12/25

GREENFIELD

11 Beech St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Willow R. Parker
Seller: Fred H. Secore
Date: 11/14/25

16 Coolidge Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: William Pielock
Seller: Robert E. Shave
Date: 11/14/25

449 Country Club Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $565,950
Buyer: Servicenet Inc.
Seller: Venture Community Services Inc.
Date: 11/12/25

10 Laurel St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $298,500
Buyer: Christina Tomasik
Seller: Eric C. Brown
Date: 11/10/25

22 Pine St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Michaela R. Elliott
Seller: Joanne C. Disciullo
Date: 11/12/25

250 Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $449,900
Buyer: Ashley Gough
Seller: Benjamin Goody
Date: 11/13/25

10 Power Square
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Benegan 2 LLC
Seller: Helen L. Miller
Date: 11/17/25

44 Wildwood Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Johnson Wilby RET
Seller: Shulenburg INT
Date: 11/14/25

HAWLEY

4 Plainfield Road
Hawley, MA 01339
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Elliot J. Henry
Seller: O’Connor, Jane M., (Estate)
Date: 11/14/25

LEVERETT

45 Cave Hill Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Sean Ezrol
Seller: Ursula P. Humphrey
Date: 11/12/25

MONTAGUE

10 Emond Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Cathleen Eastman
Seller: Stephen G. Kent
Date: 11/14/25

Highland Ave. (off)
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $185,314
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

6 Warner St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Colby R. Bartos
Seller: Waiter A. Rodovich
Date: 11/14/25

ORANGE

72 East Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Nathan J. Boudreau
Seller: Fred L. Maguire
Date: 11/14/25

75 East Myrtle St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Raymond F. Legrand
Seller: Dennis B. Mitchell
Date: 11/14/25

30 Enfield Dr.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Nathan J. Boudreau
Seller: Fred L. Maguire
Date: 11/14/25

90 Ward Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Colleen Richardson
Seller: M. A. Hastings
Date: 11/10/25

SHELBURNE

50 Old Village Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Timothy J. Murphy
Seller: Tedeso INT
Date: 11/12/25

SUNDERLAND

188 North Main St.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $496,000
Buyer: Lauren Friedman
Seller: Robert A. Petrizzi
Date: 11/12/25

72 Reservation Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Stacy M. Lynch
Seller: Anne M. Paradis
Date: 11/10/25

WHATELY

26 Eastwood Lane
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $840,000
Buyer: Robert D. McWilliams
Seller: Darrell F. Spinner
Date: 11/14/25

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

86 Alhambra Circle North
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Traci L. Welch
Seller: Tara Bates
Date: 11/14/25

25 Clifton Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $292,000
Buyer: Rumen P. Efremov
Seller: Ivette Nunez
Date: 11/17/25

83 Fairview St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $372,500
Buyer: Danielle Bordeau
Seller: Joseph E. Lancour
Date: 11/14/25

8 Independence Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Tia M. Doherty
Seller: William S. Mazurowski
Date: 11/12/25

27 Liswell Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Lyman
Seller: Robert J. Creanza
Date: 11/17/25

49 Logan Place
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Daniel Fenton
Seller: Olga M. Toskaj
Date: 11/14/25

144 Mallard Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $472,000
Buyer: Joseph Goudreau
Seller: Laureen Borgatti
Date: 11/14/25

30 Rising St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $459,900
Buyer: Bakulesh C. Patel
Seller: Patricia Chevalier
Date: 11/13/25

907 Shoemaker Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $469,413
Buyer: Kristie Boutin
Seller: Sandra G. Prive
Date: 11/10/25

114 South West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $577,000
Buyer: Maria Proto
Seller: Timmons Feeding Hills TR
Date: 11/14/25

BLANDFORD

56 Otis Tolland Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $691,000
Buyer: Keith C. Celebrezze
Seller: Lee F. Tavernia
Date: 11/12/25

BRIMFIELD

116 Brookfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Lisa Joubert
Seller: Robert J. Dorazio
Date: 11/17/25

CHICOPEE

126 Casino Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Taylor R. Cable
Seller: Jose R. Rivera
Date: 11/10/25

69 Fedak Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Justin Chartier
Seller: Walter A. Kwarcinski
Date: 11/14/25

199 Meadow St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $324,750
Buyer: Selpan Holdings LLC
Seller: Richard Hartnett
Date: 11/17/25

175 Pendexter Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Ralph L. Santaniello
Seller: Locke Properties LLC
Date: 11/14/25

65 Woodlawn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Jeremy C. Buzzell
Seller: Crystal Conroy
Date: 11/17/25

GRANVILLE

427 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Samantha E. Garvey
Seller: Cynthia T. Levasseur
Date: 11/14/25

EAST LONGMEADOW

32 Dorset St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $289,900
Buyer: Sui P. Chau
Seller: Roland P. Bretta
Date: 11/13/25

44 Edmund St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Maria Liccardi
Seller: Stellar Homes Inc.
Date: 11/12/25

12 Edwill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Dorothy J. Hill
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 11/10/25

11 Park Place
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $362,100
Buyer: Adam Deutsch
Seller: Robert H. Caldwell
Date: 11/14/25

14 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $382,500
Buyer: Kiera Kristoffy
Seller: Beth P. Young
Date: 11/10/25

566 Prospect St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $900,000
Buyer: Daniel P. Garvey
Seller: Kingdom Home LT
Date: 11/14/25

HAMPDEN

50 Martin Farms Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $423,500
Buyer: George Timmons
Seller: Sharon A. Woodin
Date: 11/12/25

HOLYOKE

695 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $386,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Wiater
Seller: Marciline L. Canto-Powers
Date: 11/12/25

63 Jarvis Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Bethany Spencer
Seller: Harriet R. Kulig
Date: 11/14/25

44 Laurel St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $340,500
Buyer: Mallory M. Nurse
Seller: Margaret T. Kraus
Date: 11/10/25

59 Mountain Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Donald A. Smith
Seller: Chicorja, Lauren, (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

97 Mountain Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $345,500
Buyer: Doris Hastings
Seller: James Duffy
Date: 11/13/25

48 North Canal St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Valley Millhouse LLC
Seller: Vickie Nicolau
Date: 11/14/25

491 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $366,000
Buyer: Erica T. Lyles-Flick
Seller: Sean F. Norton
Date: 11/13/25

286 Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Senior Homebuyers LLC
Seller: Amy O. Stewart
Date: 11/13/25

85 Woodland St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Jacqueline A. Almodovar
Seller: Gros III, William E., (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

LONGMEADOW

221 Bel Air Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Simple Times LLC
Seller: Allen G. Zippin
Date: 11/12/25

1617 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Matthew P. Lauro
Seller: Mark W. Baker
Date: 11/14/25

1636 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Colleen Douglas
Seller: Sean M. Brown
Date: 11/12/25

95 Tedford Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $560,500
Buyer: Elio Trolio
Seller: Mark G. Morisi
Date: 11/17/25

LUDLOW

34 Adams St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $323,000
Buyer: Tita I. Elevera
Seller: Susan M. Moffett
Date: 11/14/25

46 Evergreen Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Timothy Menard
Seller: Norman A. Freniere
Date: 11/14/25

37 Franklin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $205,500
Buyer: Rcaf Acquisition TR
Seller: Rose Moura
Date: 11/12/25

69 Willard Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Lisa S. Scungio
Seller: CIG4 LLC
Date: 11/14/25

MONSON

1 Cedar Swamp Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Frank W. Hull
Seller: Handzel, Joseph F., (Estate)
Date: 11/13/25

113 Ely Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $226,000
Buyer: Brian E. Allen
Seller: Eric Allen
Date: 11/10/25

174 Hovey Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $830,000
Buyer: Jillian Rocha
Seller: Robert W. Brown
Date: 11/14/25

PALMER

65 Breckenridge St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $292,000
Buyer: Amanda B. Le
Seller: Brandon T. Stone
Date: 11/14/25

RUSSELL

6 Blandford Stage Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Wayne Precanico
Seller: J. Sperry Realty LLC
Date: 11/12/25

46 Blandford Stage Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Miggy Real Estate LLC
Seller: Jodie J. Paradis
Date: 11/17/25

SPRINGFIELD

91 Arcadia Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Jose Llabaly
Seller: Ninotchka S. Diaz
Date: 11/12/25

33 Ashbrook St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Edward R. Taft
Seller: Richard E. Duffy
Date: 11/14/25

31-33 Balis St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Adebayo A. Oluwadare
Seller: Veteran Stan LLC
Date: 11/10/25

60 Barrison St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Sareen Holdings LLC
Seller: Sheila A. Somers
Date: 11/10/25

92-94 Beaumont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Estanislao Ortiz
Seller: Michael Stewart
Date: 11/12/25

75 Bennington St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Emmanuel A. Diaz
Seller: Corey A. Robinson
Date: 11/14/25

95 Benz St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Taishaly Jimenez
Seller: Vincent Calcasola
Date: 11/14/25

6 Bremen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $171,675
Buyer: Alpine Home Solutions LLC
Seller: Option One Mortgage Loan Trust
Date: 11/12/25

44-46 Calhoun St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Michelle C. Vega
Seller: Amenadiel RT
Date: 11/10/25

96 Campechi St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $319,000
Buyer: Alex D. Paulino
Seller: R. & R. Home Improvement
Date: 11/14/25

392-394 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Ernesto Rodriguez
Seller: Posiadlosc LLC
Date: 11/10/25

73 Catalpa Ter.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Henri Desroches
Seller: Kimberly T. Case
Date: 11/10/25

82-84 Cherrelyn St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Liticia Fokam
Seller: Ruben D. Avendano
Date: 11/12/25

93-95 College St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Dunia Kabangila
Seller: Lucas Feliu
Date: 11/13/25

263 Cooley St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Edgardo Berrios
Seller: Taishaly Jimenez
Date: 11/14/25

19 Dennis St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Scott Doucette
Seller: Patricia S. Cawley
Date: 11/14/25

36 Devens St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Stephanie Winkler
Seller: William T. Kilgore
Date: 11/13/25

32 Dresden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $218,700
Buyer: Freedom Mortgage Corp.
Seller: Makenson Petit-Frere
Date: 11/12/25

260 Dutchess St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Steven Snyder
Seller: Richard G. Haseltine
Date: 11/12/25

58 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Naylor Nation Construction LLC
Seller: Vu N. Ho
Date: 11/12/25

172-174 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: KB RT
Seller: Michael N. Wang
Date: 11/13/25

90 Feltham Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Lamore V. Dixon
Seller: Mydalis Vera
Date: 11/14/25

225 Gillette Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Regina Hudson
Seller: James Francisco
Date: 11/10/25

28 Hartley St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Austin Destromp
Seller: Eugene J. Borowski
Date: 11/14/25

116 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $314,000
Buyer: Felix J. Figueroa
Seller: John Kenney
Date: 11/10/25

325 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $292,500
Buyer: Heather Lavoie
Seller: Round 2 LLC
Date: 11/12/25

3 Hillside Place
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $429,900
Buyer: Shaka I. McPherson
Seller: Naomie C. Delva
Date: 11/13/25

54 Ionia St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Michael M. Dos Reis
Seller: Ionia St. TR
Date: 11/13/25

39 Kings Lane
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $174,900
Buyer: Brickhouse Homes LLC
Seller: Hodges, Donna P., (Estate)
Date: 11/14/25

185 Leyfred Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $244,375
Buyer: Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Seller: Carlos A. Cotto-Lopez
Date: 11/13/25

134 Massasoit St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Eliodoro P. Jose
Seller: Devin A. Vanasse
Date: 11/14/25

21 Meadowlark Lane
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Regina I. Bouchereau
Seller: David A. Merrill
Date: 11/13/25

55 Montrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Anabel C. Rodriguez
Seller: David Givans
Date: 11/17/25

276 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Hector L. Santana
Seller: Jessica Almonte
Date: 11/14/25

79 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Matthew Restrepo
Seller: Tiwari Brothers LLC
Date: 11/17/25

307 Oakland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Alexi Colon
Seller: Latoya Lynch
Date: 11/10/25

908 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Emanuel Rukundo
Seller: Carla M. Machado
Date: 11/14/25

56-58 Phoenix St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Andrenne Oriental
Seller: Home Equity Assets Realty
Date: 11/13/25

19-23 Pine St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $591,000
Buyer: Stephen Gicharu
Seller: Jmx Ii TR
Date: 11/13/25

Pine St. Ct. (SS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $591,000
Buyer: Stephen Gicharu
Seller: Jmx Ii TR
Date: 11/13/25

Quincy St. (NS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Matthew Restrepo
Seller: Tiwari Brothers LLC
Date: 11/17/25

82 Redfern Dr.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Noah Decoteau
Seller: Denise A. Tanguay
Date: 11/14/25

213 Savoy Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Keanna Lumpkin
Seller: Laura J. Phillips
Date: 11/17/25

137 Shawmut St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Thao Thach
Seller: Cornerstone Homebuying LLC
Date: 11/17/25

511 Trafton Road
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Jean D. Baptiste
Seller: Virginia M. White
Date: 11/14/25

211 West Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jose Perez
Seller: Christopher Hernandez
Date: 11/17/25

65 Wilshire Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $337,000
Buyer: Jillian Connors
Seller: Hilario Guerrero
Date: 11/10/25

96 Winding Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Ana M. Rosario-Tejada
Seller: Casini, Tina Marie, (Estate)
Date: 11/12/25

55 Woodrow St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Dorothy J. Austin
Seller: Northern Flooring & Remodeling
Date: 11/14/25

31 Worcester Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $416,000
Buyer: Dnepro Properties LLC
Seller: Rinaldi Pease Holdings LLC
Date: 11/13/25

21 Wrona St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Homestead J&T LLC
Seller: Starzyk, Chester John, (Estate)
Date: 11/13/25

SOUTHWICK

28 Gargon Ter.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $387,900
Buyer: Nathan Towle
Seller: Mark W. Drummond
Date: 11/10/25

355 North Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Loomis Property LLC
Seller: Kierstin Knightly
Date: 11/12/25

8 Powder Mill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Paul Brzoska
Seller: Joseph T. Calabrese
Date: 11/10/25

30 Powder Mill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Tristan Jorud
Seller: Kara K. Jorud
Date: 11/14/25

33 South Longyard Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: James Connor
Seller: Jacob Hervieux
Date: 11/14/25

WEST SPRINGFIELD

145 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $279,500
Buyer: Yanko I. Kaluche
Seller: Francisco Rodriguez
Date: 11/14/25

75 Birnie Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $354,000
Buyer: Christopher Eastman
Seller: James W. Connor
Date: 11/14/25

24 Burford Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Sergio L. Hernandez
Seller: Yakelin Hidalgo
Date: 11/12/25

220 New Bridge St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Moses Thuo
Seller: Oza, Shruti B., (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

49 Vincent Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Diane L. Campbell
Seller: Charlene A. Pope
Date: 11/17/25

WESTFIELD

Buck Pond Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Timothy Briggs
Seller: Gary S. Lipp
Date: 11/14/25

16 Davis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Timothy Briggs
Seller: Gary S. Lipp
Date: 11/14/25

8 Ellis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Leonard Murphy
Seller: Adam Christensen
Date: 11/14/25

37 Gladwin Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Ronald Gibbons
Seller: Aric E. Lunde
Date: 11/17/25

11 Highland Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $462,500
Buyer: Gerald B. Rowinsky
Seller: Wayne Cumberlander
Date: 11/13/25

386 Hillside Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Daniel Shaw
Seller: Theresa E. Lagerberg
Date: 11/12/25

14 Lynnwood Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Robert Davis
Seller: Brittany Deronde
Date: 11/14/25

10 New Broadway
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Benjamin J. Dupelle
Seller: Ceasar R. Vicenty
Date: 11/10/25

77 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Borys Titenko
Seller: Thomas Vuelta
Date: 11/14/25

191 Servistar Industrial Way
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Servistar Industrial Way
Seller: 191 Servistar Realty LLC
Date: 11/17/25

WILBRAHAM

23 Deerfield Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Hannon
Seller: Jennifer A. Knudsen
Date: 11/14/25

17 Hunting Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Alesha L. Przybylek
Seller: Elizabeth Mavis
Date: 11/17/25

30 Red Bridge Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Evergreen Design Build Inc.
Seller: Waclaw J. Bernard IRT
Date: 11/13/25

80 Soule Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Daniel A. Minahan
Seller: Marian Roncarati-Fortin
Date: 11/17/25

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

40 Farmington Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Sefnuon Noeun
Seller: Jorge Gomez
Date: 11/17/25

785 Main St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $735,000
Buyer: Mill River Holdings LLC
Seller: Historic Renovations & Remodelling
Date: 11/12/25

237 Shutesbury Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Ryan Hommel
Seller: Stuart W. Shulman
Date: 11/17/25

BELCHERTOWN

109 Channel Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Isaac L. Cohen TR
Seller: Gary L. Mescon
Date: 11/13/25

260 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: O&E Enterprises LLC
Seller: Janis L. Sugrue
Date: 11/17/25

21 Plaza Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $705,000
Buyer: Brianna Carey
Seller: K. G. Hassenfratz
Date: 11/17/25

167 Warren Wright Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Kws Collective LLC
Seller: James L. Beadle
Date: 11/10/25

42 Wilson Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Taylsha E. Roberson
Seller: Christopher S. Forbes
Date: 11/14/25

EASTHAMPTON

10-22 Nashawannuck St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $5,075,000
Buyer: Easthampton Pleasantview
Seller: Pleasantview Residences LLC
Date: 11/12/25

20 Pomeroy St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hillary J. Tyler
Seller: Lorianne M. Wisner
Date: 11/17/25

GRANBY

300 Amherst St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Daniel Theroux
Seller: John C. Cook
Date: 11/12/25

154 Batchelor St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Taylor S. Koerner
Seller: 2024 Sheehan FT
Date: 11/12/25

HADLEY

4 Indian Pipe Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $885,000
Buyer: Colby Frank
Seller: 4 Indian Pipe Dr. TR
Date: 11/12/25

HATFIELD

84 Chestnut St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $545,730
Buyer: Patricia Chandler
Seller: McCannon, Kathy L., (Estate)
Date: 11/10/25

155 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Sbcraven LLC
Seller: Christine Andrulis
Date: 11/10/25

144 Pantry Road
Hatfield, MA 01066
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Andrew Doig
Seller: Austin Wheeler
Date: 11/14/25

HUNTINGTON

64 Harlow Clark Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jason L. Buvelot
Seller: Michael K. Henderson
Date: 11/10/25

NORTHAMPTON

13-1/2 Finn St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: James Perretta
Seller: Katherine A. Boyer
Date: 11/14/25

140 Florence St.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $427,000
Buyer: Maya Holmes
Seller: Mark Chrabascz
Date: 11/17/25

103 Massasoit St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $875,000
Buyer: John Dew
Seller: Bryann Hobbs
Date: 11/12/25

20 Nagle Court
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $789,900
Buyer: Martha C. Martin LT
Seller: Sovereign Builders Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

80 Pine St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Pamela R. Weissman
Seller: Pariica L. Sipe
Date: 11/12/25

383 Westhampton Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $569,000
Buyer: Nathan D. Ogulewicz
Seller: Gleason Johndrow Properties LLC
Date: 11/14/25

PELHAM

69 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $1,708,500
Buyer: Daniele Orchard
Seller: Isaiah Weiss
Date: 11/17/25

77 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Isaiah Weiss
Seller: Greenstein, George S., (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

SOUTH HADLEY

25 Noel St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Janice E. Schwartz
Seller: Frank D. Falcetti RET
Date: 11/17/25

47 Pynchon Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Analytical Science Marketing
Seller: Matthew Jeznach
Date: 11/10/25

SOUTHAMPTON

178 County Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Michael Riordan
Seller: Lyle D. Washington
Date: 11/17/25

128 Middle Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $725,000
Buyer: Sherri Morris
Seller: Edmund S. Pooler
Date: 11/14/25

WARE

51 Main St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: 51 Main Realty LLC
Seller: Shree Chanermouli Enterprises LLC
Date: 11/14/25

28 Maple Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Corey Lapierre
Seller: Bsm Hsh LLC
Date: 11/14/25

WESTHAMPTON

65 Edwards Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Jeffrey A. Colley
Seller: Janice Scott-Morose LT
Date: 11/14/25

Reservoir Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: C. L. & Clarinda Staples Real Estate
Seller: Kestrel Land Trust Inc.
Date: 11/17/25

Building Permits

By BusinessWest Staff December 19, 2025

Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of November 2025.

CHICOPEE

Mental Health Assoc. Inc.
350 Memorial Dr.
$11,500 — Renovate existing room to become a pharmacy

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Congregational Church
116 Main St.
$5,942 — Replace eight windows

HADLEY

333 Russell Street LLC
333 Russell St.
N/A — Replace four storefront windows

LENOX

Lenox Commons Holdings LLC
55 Pittsfield Road
$367,637 — Addition to Antimony Brewery and Kitchen, including concrete foundation and walkways, wood-framed walls and roof, and electrical work

NORTHAMPTON

Carolina Bank
6 Valley View Road
$7,022.16 — Insulation, weatherization, and air sealing

City of Northampton
42 Gothic St.
$2,095 — Install new door and temporary partition wall in office space

City of Northampton
80 Locust St.
$17,000 — Add isolation room to multi-species barn at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School

Florence Casket Co.
16 Bardwell St.
$18,400 — Insulation and weatherization

Hilltown CDC
148 Main St.
$30,719 — Roofing

Lathrop Community Inc.
680 Bridge Road
$3,760 — Emergency replacement of fire alarm panel

Northampton Lodge of Elks
17 Spring St.
$3,200 — Clothing shed in parking lot

Smith College
Berenson Place
$103,250 — Provide new riser with one wet system in mechanical space

Smith College
84 Elm St.
$39,100 — Drew Hall renovation

Trident Realty Corp.
139 King St.
$8,900 — Replace gable end siding

Valley CDC
737 Bridge Road
$657,439 — Install roof-mounted solar system

Windhorse Integrative Mental Health Inc.
26 Day Ave.
$17,750 — Roofing

PITTSFIELD

Berkshire Medical Center Inc.
725 North St.
$4,960 — Modify sprinkler coverage within renovated space

Kalahar Realty LLC
268 Wahconah St.
$68,850 — Roofing

Getting Down to Business in 2026

By Editorial December 19, 2025

Opinion

Editorial

Almost 42 years after John Gormally published the first issue of the Western Mass. Business Journal — which would later be rebranded as BusinessWest — the biweekly magazine continues to shine a spotlight on the Western Mass. business landscape, telling the stories behind the stories — of entrepreneurs, visionaries, and legacy companies alike — and sharing the trends, challenges, and opportunities that drive those companies and their industries, as well as sharing articles written by experts in a variety of fields.

And as the calendar turns to 2026, business leaders continue to rely on BusinessWest to illuminate not just present conditions, but what’s ahead for myriad sectors, from law to education; from finance to healthcare; from retail to technology — and so many more.

They’re emerging from a year of uncertainty — about the overall economy, costs, and interest rates; funding pressures from Washington (and a deeply divided electorate on matters economic and cultural); and concerns about what comes next. Those funding challenges have landed hard in Western Mass., impacting higher education, healthcare, the broad nonprofit sector, and startups like Sublime Systems, which continues to cope with the loss of an $87 million federal grant last spring that would have helped fund a new manufacturing plant in Holyoke.

But almost six years out from a crippling pandemic, many companies recorded strong years in 2025, and entrepreneurship — a critical and robust element of the economy in the 413 — continues to produce new, and inspiring, successes.

What is certain is that BusinessWest will continue to reflect the current times, trends, and stories from a local perspective — that is, through the eyes, minds, and experiences of business owners and economic experts throughout the 413.

In the Jan. 5 issue, we’ll present our annual Economic Outlook, once again featuring the voices of dozens of regional business leaders from many different sectors. And on Jan. 19, we’ll reveal our 30th annual Top Entrepreneur.

Two issues after that, we’ll unveil our 18th annual class of Difference Makers, the first of four very popular recognition programs throughout 2026, along with 40 Under Forty in April — marking its 20th year of honoring high-achieving young professionals — Healthcare Heroes in September, and Women of Impact in October. BusinessWest accepts nominations for all four programs all year long.

This year will also bring a broad mix of feature stories, as well as returning favorites like each issue’s Community Spotlight, shedding light on economic development, municipal projects, tourism, and quality of life in individual cities and towns; and the quarterly Where Are They Now? — each installment visiting with a past winner of one of the four awards mentioned earlier, detailing how their life and career have evolved since. All that is, of course, on top of our regular coverage of dozens of industries.

And look for our annual Book of Lists early in the year as well, a comprehensive resource guide to the businesses and sectors that drive this region’s economic engine.

As 2026 takes shape, with all the challenges and successes it might produce, we’re excited to bring all that, and more, to you — on the page, through our podcast conversations with local business owners, at our recognition events, and at businesswest.com. Happy New Year.

Double Your Impact as the Year Ends

By Contributor December 19, 2025

Opinion

By Colleen Shanley-Loveless

As we approach the end of the year, I find myself thinking about the extraordinary generosity that fuels our work at Revitalize CDC. Every repaired roof, every safe home, every child or senior supported through our health, education, nutrition, and digital navigation programs — each of these success stories begins with someone choosing to invest in their community.

Right now, you have a powerful opportunity to make that investment go twice as far.

Through the Massachusetts Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC) program, any donation of $1,000 or more to Revitalize CDC earns you a 50% refundable state tax credit. That means a $1,000 gift effectively costs you only $500 after the credit. A $10,000 gift costs $5,000 while delivering the full benefit to the local low-income families who need it most.

This is one of the most generous community investment incentives in the country. And it’s open to individuals, businesses, and nonprofits, including churches, regardless of the state in which you file taxes. On top of the state credit, your gift also qualifies for a federal charitable tax deduction, increasing your overall savings.

When you give to Revitalize CDC, 95 cents of every dollar supports direct program expenses. This demonstrates exceptional efficiency, an achievement reached by fewer than 1% of nonprofits nationwide.

Your contribution provides flexible, immediate funds that allow us to respond to urgent needs, keeping seniors and veterans warm and safe in their homes, ensuring families have healthy food, helping residents gain digital access, and strengthening the neighborhoods we all share.

When you give through CITC, you’re not just making a donation — you’re creating stability for a family, dignity for a neighbor, and resilience for an entire community.

To sum up, your CITC gift provides:

• Considerable tax savings;

• Eligibility for individuals, businesses, and nonprofits, including churches;

• A federal IRS charitable deduction; and

• A refundable credit, meaning excess credit comes back to you even if you owe little or no tax.

This is a moment when your generosity truly has the power to transform lives. Please consider making your CITC-eligible donation today at www.revitalizecdc.com. Double your impact. Save on your taxes. Strengthen your community.

And, as always, please consult your professional tax advisor for guidance specific to your situation. Email me at [email protected] if you have any questions. Together, we can ensure that every neighbor, every family, has the chance to live in a safe, healthy, and stable home. Thank you for standing with us.

Colleen Shanley-Loveless is president and CEO of Revitalize CDC.

Time Running Out to Nominate a 2026 Difference Maker

By BusinessWest Staff December 18, 2025

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for its 18th annual Difference Makers awards, but time is almost up, as the deadline is Monday, Dec. 22 at 5 p.m. Nominations can be submitted by clicking here.

BusinessWest launched the Difference Makers program in 2009 to recognize and celebrate the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions that are positively impacting the communities of Western Mass. As previous honorees have shown, there are many ways to make a difference within our community, such as working on initiatives aimed at improving quality of life; succeeding in business, public service, or education; inspiring others to get involved; and making an imaginative effort to help solve societal issues.

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

Mission-Rich Academy Launches First Live Intensive in Western Mass.

By BusinessWest Staff December 18, 2025

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Mission-Rich Academy will host its first-ever live intensive, “The Mission-Rich Experience Live,” on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 12-13, 2026, bringing nonprofit leaders and micro-business owners from across the country to Western Mass. for a two-day, high-touch leadership intensive.

Founded by LaTonia Monroe Naylor, a leadership strategist, author, and longtime regional leader, the intensive reflects more than an event — it represents decades of community-centered leadership. Naylor has spent more than 20 years working directly with families and youth, including 15 years supporting nonprofit leaders and institutions, and nearly a decade advocating for education and systems-level change across the region.

Naylor is also the co-founder of a trusted nonprofit organization serving hundreds of families annually since 2018, and her work has been recognized through multiple local and statewide honors, positioning her as a respected voice in sustainable leadership and community impact.

The two-day convening is designed to help mission-driven leaders strengthen funding access, build sustainable systems, and lead with clarity — particularly during a time of uncertainty. Attendance is intentionally limited to preserve depth of training, with participants leaving with proven frameworks, strategic clarity, and a practical plan they can begin implementing immediately.

“This intensive was created because many mission-driven leaders are doing meaningful work but still struggle to sustain it,” Naylor said. “I participated in leadership programs that strengthened my leadership skills, but they didn’t address how to build a business or nonprofit from infancy. I needed guidance on the strategy, structure, and systems required to build something sustainable and culturally aligned. That gap is what this two-day intensive is designed to address.”

In addition to national participation, Mission-Rich Academy will award 10 leadership scholarships to cover full general admission for Springfield-based micro-businesses, supported through a community partnership with the Latino Economic Development Corp. (LEDC).

“At LEDC, we believe strong businesses are built on more than hustle — they’re built on strategy, systems, and a clear mission,” said Andrew Melendez, founder and executive director of LEDC. “We sponsored 10 local business owners because access to high-level leadership development should not be a barrier. Investing in these founders means investing in long-term economic growth for our region.”

Tickets are now live, with general admission and VIP options available. Because space is limited and pre-event bonus trainings are offered on a one-time basis, early registration is encouraged. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are also available for organizations and businesses interested in supporting leadership development and long-term community impact.

For event details and ticket information, visit www.missionrichexperience.com.

CET Receives $375,000 Grant to Expand Massachusetts’ Clean Energy Workforce

By BusinessWest Staff December 18, 2025

Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — CET announced receipt of a $375,000 investment to grow Massachusetts’ clean energy workforce. The funding, a grant from E4TheFuture, will support a workforce development program that provides comprehensive training, mentorship, and career pathways for individuals entering the building energy efficiency and decarbonization sector.

The program will pursue the U.S. Department of Labor’s Registered Apprenticeship Program for Energy Auditors, positioning participants for nationally recognized credentials and broader career mobility.

The year-long, full-time paid positions will combine classroom learning with hands-on field experience, equipping participants with the technical expertise, industry certifications, and real-world skills needed to launch long-term careers. Graduates will be offered full-time positions at CET, advancing its mission to deliver just and resilient climate solutions.

“This partnership is about more than filling jobs — it’s about building a strong, inclusive workforce ready to take on the climate crisis,” said Ashley Muspratt, president and CEO of CET. “Thanks to E4TheFuture’s investment, we can train and hire talented individuals who may not otherwise have access to this career pathway, ensuring that all communities benefit from the clean energy transition.”

Over the next three years, CET will recruit approximately 10 participants, with a focus on candidates from underrepresented and environmental justice communities. Program graduates will help homes and businesses reduce energy use, lower costs, and improve health, safety, and resilience while contributing to the Commonwealth’s decarbonization goals.

“We are proud to support CET’s collaborative workforce development efforts, which will expand opportunity while accelerating Massachusetts’ progress toward a clean energy future,” said Pat Stanton, executive director of E4TheFuture. “Developing skilled professionals in this field is essential to meeting both climate and equity goals. CET stepping up as an inaugural employer for the Registered Apprenticeship Program in Massachusetts demonstrates their exemplary leadership.”

This investment is part of E4TheFuture’s final philanthropic distribution as the organization prepares to sunset its 501(c)(3). Nearly 50 years ago, the founders of both organizations shared a friendship and vision for clean energy, and this grant represents the passing of that mission and purpose to a new generation.

“This is an investment in people and in the future of our communities,” said David O’Connor, board chair of E4TheFuture. “By preparing more workers for clean energy careers, we can strengthen our economy while making real progress toward decarbonization.”

6 Brick’s, Green Meadows Continue Partnership with Patton Alliance for Veterans

By BusinessWest Staff December 18, 2025

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Cannabis dispensaries 6 Brick’s and Green Meadows, along with the Shubrick and Patton families, continued their collaborative partnership throughout the month of November in support of the Patton Alliance for Veterans, an organization dedicated to advancing veteran-focused initiatives nationwide.

Rooted in shared values of service, community, and healing, the partnership brought together two independent, family-owned Massachusetts cannabis companies to raise awareness and financial support for veterans facing physical and mental health challenges.

Throughout the month of November, 6 Brick’s partnered with Green Meadows to donate $1 for every Green Meadows, At Ease, or 6 Brick’s product sold, with the campaign culminating in a total contribution of $6,550 to the Patton Alliance for Veterans. 100% of these funds will go to charitable efforts. In addition, 6 Brick’s honored veterans with a 10% discount throughout the entire month, reinforcing the campaign’s commitment to accessibility, recognition, and gratitude.

“It is a true honor to be able to continue this partnership,” said Payton Shubrick, founder and CEO of 6 Brick’s. “Our families and our companies go forward together in supporting America’s veterans in a unique partnership that allows 6 Brick’s, our customers, and my family to support those who can never be thanked enough. Many veterans of all ages and eras of service come to us as part of their health regimen. They are so supportive of our alliance with the Patton family.”

Robert ‘Bob’ Patton, chairman and co-founder of Green Meadows, added that “the Patton family and Green Meadows are proud to again partner with the Shubrick family and 6 Brick’s on this meaningful initiative to our family, legacy, and veterans. While we work together year-round to deliver high-quality cannabis and customer service to our communities, this November campaign has become integral to our family and business’ mission. Supporting the Patton Alliance for Veterans allows our partnership to extend beyond the cannabis industry and toward a shared mission of service to those who gave us everything.”

The partnership represents a powerful alignment of diverse backgrounds and shared purpose. 6 Brick’s is Black-owned and women-owned, while Green Meadows was founded by a family descended from some of America’s most notable military leaders, including Gen. George Patton, one of the most prominent figures of World War II. Together, their collaboration reflects the diversity, unity, and resilience of the American story. Dec. 21 will mark the 80th anniversary of Gen. Patton’s passing in 1945.

Green Meadows’ affiliated nonprofit initiatives support organizations including Stop Soldier Suicide and the Black Veterans Project, further amplifying the impact of this partnership.

Colebrook Realty Services Brokers Sale of Bank Branch to UMassFive

By BusinessWest Staff December 18, 2025

Daily News

EAST LONGMEADOW — Colebrook Realty Services announced the sale of 465 North Main St. in East Longmeadow to UMassFive College Federal Credit Union for $2 million. The property most recently housed a TD Bank branch. Located at the corner of North Main Street and Harkness Avenue, the building is approximately 2,800 square feet on more than 0.6 acres of land.

B. John Dill, president and CEO of Colebrook Realty Services, represented the seller, 465 North Main Street LLC. Nancy Nesbitt of AccuBranch represented UMassFive College Credit Union.

Originally developed as a branch of the former Springfield Institution for Savings (SIS) in 1970 by the Martone and Preston families, the site served as a banking facility for several successor banks to SIS, most recently TD Bank. Two generations of the Martone and Preston families served as stewards of this prominent location.

“Colebrook took a relationship-based approach to this deal and handled it as only Colebrook could,” said Alan Martone, manager of 465 North Main Street LLC. “This property has been family-owned for more than 50 years; we were pleased to see it remain in local ownership. At the end of the transaction, all seven partners were satisfied, and we left as friends — an unlikely outcome for a development that started with a handshake among the previous generation.”

Dill complimented all parties for the cooperation that brought the transaction to fruition. “This was a uniquely collaborative deal,” he said. “Everyone involved, including TD Bank’s facilities management team, were great to work with in the transition to new ownership.”

MountainOne Announces Two New Senior Commercial Credit Analysts

By BusinessWest Staff December 18, 2025

Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne has welcomed two new senior commercial credit analysts, Ann Barnes and Nicholas Fanfan, to its Commercial Banking division.

In their roles, Barnes and Fanfan evaluate the financial strength of commercial borrowers and prospects, prepare credit analyses to support new and renewed credit requests, and collaborate with commercial lenders on deal structuring and portfolio management. They also assist in monitoring borrower performance to help maintain the long-term quality of the commercial loan portfolio.

Barnes brings more than 10 years of experience in commercial lending and collateral oversight. She most recently served as vice president of Collateral Oversight at Blue Ridge Bank in Richmond, Va. Prior to that, she held leadership roles at Salus Capital Partners in Needham, supporting asset-based lending operations and credit risk management. She earned a degree in accounting from Bryant University.

Fanfan joins MountainOne with experience in commercial credit and lending at Cambridge Savings Bank in Waltham, where he supported credit decision making across commercial real estate, corporate banking, and asset-based lending portfolios. He earned a bachelor’s degree in managerial economics from UMass Amherst.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Ann and Nicholas to the MountainOne team,” said Marie Harris, vice president, Credit Administration manager at MountainOne Bank. “Each brings a unique perspective shaped by their experience, and both will be valuable as we continue to meet the needs of our commercial clients and communities.”

Work in Progress

What MEPA Does

The ‘Evaluate and Progress’ Defense

The Case on Appeal

What’s Next?

Choosing a Cause That Matters

Next Steps

Innovative Approach

Advancing Equity

Getting a Leg Up

Getting Down to Business

It’s Not a Piece of Cake

Episode 249: December 22, 2025

Joe Bednar talks with Meg Talbert, Executive Director, Dakin Humane Society

Sponsored by:

Also Available On

Out in the Open

Seven Practical Steps to Get Compliant Quickly

Templates You Can Use Today

Common Questions from Employers

Key Dates and Thresholds at a Glance

Why Act Now?

Something to Build On

Values and Purpose

Surveying the Landscape

Rate of Change

Knowledge Is Power

Career Opportunities

Community Spotlight

Current Events

South Hadley at a Glance

Food for Thought

Planting Seeds for STEM

Toward Healthier Homes

Where’s the Beef?

MountainOne, Mechanics Receive Approvals to Merge

BrightBridge, Arrha Credit Union Members Approve Merger

March for the Food Bank Raises More Than $830,000

Mayflower Marathon Raises $260,000 for Open Pantry

D.A. Sullivan & Sons Inc. Named a Top Place to Work

Greylock Selects Berkshire County Kids’ Place for $20,000 Award

WNE, Bay Path Launch Articulation Agreement

Rocky’s Ace Hardware Customers Round Up for Animal Shelters

MountainOne Donates $25,000 for Food, Fuel Assistance

Bulkley Richardson Raises $11,000 to Battle Food Insecurity

Mama G’s Halal Platters, Frozen D Lite Open at Mall

Bueno y Sano Celebrates Holyoke Opening with Donation

Daruma Hosts Grand Opening for Japanese BBQ Restaurant

Hot Plate Brewing Launches Innovative Loyalty Program

Two Jewish Organizations Fund Emergency Assistance Efforts

Rick’s Place Selected for Community Bank Donation

Jessy’s Fight Donates $38,820 to D’Amour Center for Cancer Care

Dakin Receives $40,000 Grant from Windsor Charitable Trust

Editorial

Opinion

Daily News

News

Contact

Departments

Events