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Month: February 2026

Insurance Industry Grapples with Need for Young Talent

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Insurance Special Coverage

Protecting the Future

Lisa Johnson admits an insurance career can be challenging — and a constant learning experience.

“Even our veterans will tell you, nobody knows everything about insurance. They’re learning something new every week — from each other and from formal education,” said Johnson, chief operating officer of Encharter Insurance in Amherst. “We make sure we have people taking classes every year. We incentivize learning; it improves our businvess.”

And that goes double for new employees; even after landing a job, she said, it takes about a year of training to fully ramp up on personal lines, and three years on the commercial side.

“It’s a complicated business. As an agency owner, you have to be willing to put in the time and the energy to make sure people are getting the training they need,” Johnson told BusinessWest. “Sometimes people underestimate the learning curve, and it’s tough to stick with it and get licensed and have a career. You’re dealing with a lot of regulations, it can be a very technical business, and it can be very overwhelming.”

That may not sound like the most appealing pitch, but there are rewards on the other side, she said.

“We have a career that’s not stagnant; you’re always learning new things, learning to manage obstacles, and that should be presented as an opportunity. It’s enrichment for your career. It’s furthering your personal value. This career offers exceptional long-term benefits, a lot of stability. It’s recession-proof, with a lot of variable and transferable skills like customer service and sales. I always tell people, a great salesperson will never starve.”

That said, according to a recent article in Insurance Journal, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the industry will face approximately 21,500 job vacancies each year over the next decade, and “this growing talent shortage is compounded by a rise in the severity of claims and by the industrialization of plaintiff litigation. As veteran employees leave the workforce, the industry loses invaluable expertise. That creates a ripple effect of challenges for claims-management organizations.”

Lisa Johnson

Lisa Johnson

“It’s a complicated business. As an agency owner, you have to be willing to put in the time and the energy to make sure people are getting the training they need.”

And that leaves growing agencies with a real challenge. John Dowd Jr., president and CEO of the Dowd Agencies in Holyoke, said recruiting may be more of a problem in the 413 than elsewhere.

“It has been a challenge for a long time to attract more people into this industry. I don’t think that’s unique to Western Mass., but compared to Eastern Mass. or more metropolitan areas, we just have fewer candidates that are drawn to the industry.”

Still, “I think it’s a great industry,” Dowd said. “We have many people come here to work with us, and most stay. Some don’t because they either don’t like it or they move to a different area, whatever the case may be.”

Recruiting the right people, those who will stick for the long term, has become so important, in fact, that the firm has, for the first time, hired a talent recruiter, as opposed to running ads in newspapers or working through headhunters.

“We’ve done those things for years, trying to attract people, both young people interested in the industry and seasoned people who have been in the industry for a period of time,” Dowd said. “Obviously, it’s easier to hire an experienced person to step in with minimal training and be effective at their job. But those people are not that easy to find. So a lot of times, we’ll say, ‘let’s recruit young people and train them and teach them our way.’ That way, they’re more likely to assimilate into our company’s culture.

“It is a great business, with a lot of different things you can do, depending on what your skills and interests are, and what your long-term ambitions are,” Dowd added, noting that the new recruiter will help build a pipeline of young talent. “We have multiple locations in multiple states. We’re going to have people retiring, people moving out of the area, and we have to fill those positions. We’re excited about this new role because we really think it’s going to help us fill positions and find better-qualified people — either experienced or inexperienced with lots of upside.”

Because of the training involved in hiring younger people, Johnson said, “it’s a huge savings if you can grab one of the seasoned people in our area, but I think it’s kind of a small group of people rotating from one agency to another.”

John Dowd

John Dowd

“Colleges typically don’t direct course curriculum to the insurance industry, and people don’t get introduced to it in high school or college unless they’re looking for that. And even then, it’s difficult to find courses specific to the insurance industry.”

So the industry absolutely needs an influx of young talent — and insurance careers can be appealing to them in a number of ways, she added.

“I do think it’s been a challenge in today’s labor market to find the right people. We’re competing with banks and other roles that appear more modern to younger candidates,” she said. “But it’s definitely an industry that is going to supply young people with a lot of upward mobility, particularly because they’ll bring their technical knowledge that some of the folks retiring don’t have.”

 

School’s Out

Part of the problem, Dowd said, is educational. “Colleges typically don’t direct course curriculum to the insurance industry, and people don’t get introduced to it in high school or college unless they’re looking for that. And even then, it’s difficult to find courses specific to the insurance industry.”

Considering that landscape, Sam Hanmer, president and CEO of Rush Insurance Group in Chicopee, said it’s valuable to work with community colleges and high schools to recruit through internships and generally expose students to opportunities in insurance.

“We have plenty of work, and they’re paid internships, so we hope we can get some young people to stick around,” he told BusinessWest. “We’ve even reached out to local high schools as well, creating opportunities for them. We want them to come work after school, do some data entry work, that kind of thing. We’re talking to guidance counselors about the potential for them to send over kids who are looking for after-school jobs.”

Sam Hanmer

Sam Hanmer

“Depending on what side of the fence you want to be on, there’s also a lot of financial work, payables, receivables, billing, all of that. And as an agency, we also need IT support. So there are a lot of different areas.”

The problem, as noted earlier, is that only a handful of colleges in the country actually offer coursework in insurance.

Hanmer noted that the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst has put together an insurance club — one more oriented toward the carrier side of the business, not the agency side, but it’s a start toward exposing more young people to career opportunities.

“These are good jobs; they’re actually very-well-paying jobs relative to Western Mass. It’s really about educating people, getting them interested in trying this career path,” he added. “And the interns, we’re paying $22 an hour to keep them engaged. Minimum wage is not going to keep them engaged.”

Dowd, obviously, had an unusual level of exposure to insurance, as his family has been in the business for 128 years, and the business now includes the fifth generation of company leaders.

“I had plenty of introduction to the industry, and I always had an eye on it because it was a family thing. I watched my father and uncle over the years, and I went to work right out of college for an insurance company in New Jersey as an underwriter.”

That said, “I knew being an underwriter wasn’t something I wanted to do for the rest of my life, so I came back and joined the agency as a salesman. I knew that was the area I wanted to focus on. I liked interacting with people, helping them sort through the complexities of the insurance business and insurance policies.”

That movement speaks to one of the draws of an insurance career, Hanmer said.

“Insurance is a lot of contract law, and you get to learn a lot of insurance policy,” he said. “But, depending on what side of the fence you want to be on, there’s also a lot of financial work, payables, receivables, billing, all of that. And as an agency, we also need IT support. So there are a lot of different areas. Someone could come in and hang around and say, ‘hey, there’s an area I want to potentially continue my career path on.’”

Dowd agreed. “What I say to them is, ‘look, there are a lot of different things you can do in this business. You can be in customer service as an account manager, or be on the claims end of things, or be on the accounting end of things, or be in sales, or start as a receptionist and work your way up,’” he explained. “We’ve had some of our best people start as receptionists and work their way up to senior account manager positions or claims directors; it’s really about how ambitious you are, and we nurture them along the way.”

In fact, three current employees in leadership roles started as receptionists, he noted. “They’re thriving, and they’re happy, and we’re happy with them.”

Of all those roles, salespeople may be the hardest to find, Dowd said. “Or, I should say, good salespeople. Everyone thinks they can sell until they find out how hard it is. But it’s easier if you like people, if you’re ready to work hard, and if you’re patient, knowing you have to work your way through and gain experience and gain the confidence of clients. That takes time.

“You have to have perseverance and dedication to the process, becoming a student of the business, to be an effective service professional and service customers far and wide,” he went on. “If you are of that personality and have that dedication, you can thrive in our business.”

Johnson also has senior employees who started as receptionists, so she can testify to the opportunities for advancement.

For most young recruits, she noted, “whether they’ve just come out of high school or they have a PhD, we’re still training them from square one. Typically, our agency is looking for people with experience, but it’s not that we don’t take people without experience — we have done quite a bit of that.”

Youth Movement

Hanmer told BusinessWest that the insurance business may not be flashy enough for teenagers considering career paths, and they’re more likely to gravitate toward more technology-oriented fields.

“Insurance is not tech-heavy, although it’s evolving,” he noted. “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.”

The Insurance Journal article argues for better efforts at understanding the workplace needs of younger generations, which include remote work, modern tools and technology, a collaborative environment, and clearly outlined core corporate values.

Johnson said Encharter has cultivated an environment that not only values constant learning, but the importance of relationships.

“It’s a person-to-person business, and that’s how you build relationships. I can’t overestimate how important that is,” she explained. “Also, if they think they’re valued and what they do matters, it’s a much more rewarding career — and that’s something we build on with that team environment.”

Dowd said agency leaders check in with new hires 90 days after onboarding process, “to find out not only how they’re doing, but how we’re doing. Are we living up to the promises we made, to the commitments we made, to provide training and support so you can thrive in your new position?

“It’s a great business because you meet all kinds of new people and learn about businesses of all types, inside and out, and the clients become your friends. Oftentimes, you can have decades of relationships with these people who really become your friends,” he added.

“I say to every one of them, ‘we want you to retire here.’ We’re proud when we can see somebody employed and happy. I always say, ‘we can’t do it without you. And together, we can survive and thrive in a competitive industry.’”

Deerfield Is ‘a Front Door and a Backbone’

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Victoria Tubbs and Vytautas Sukys have big plans for Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory.
Community Spotlight Special Coverage

Community Spotlight

Victoria Tubbs and Vytautas Sukys have big plans for Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory.

Victoria Tubbs and Vytautas Sukys have big plans for Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory.

Victoria Tubbs says her first visit to Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory in Deerfield was certainly a memorable one.

Indeed, as she and her brother, Vytautas Sukys, offered a tour of the business they now own and manage, she pointed to the bridge over the small koi pond in the conservatory and said, “I was proposed to right there 16 years ago.”

As she and Sukys stopped for a photo on that very spot, with one of the 4,000 or so butterflies inhabiting the place at any given time fluttering in the background, they said their broad goal is to create special memories for others while taking this business — now celebrating 25 years as one of the pillars of Franklin County’s tourism scene — in new and different directions.

These include a greater focus on events and creating more experiences for the thousands who come here every year, everything from glassblowing to classes on various subjects, blending nature with art and education.

Magic Wings, as noted, is one of the major draws in Deerfield. Others include Yankee Candle, Tree House Brewing Co., Historic Deerfield, and the Rock Fossil and Dinosaur Shop, all of these on or accessible from Routes 5 & 10.

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory

Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory

Together, they contribute to an outsized role in the local tourism sector, its workforce opportunities, and overall regional identity for a town of just over 5,000 people.

“I like to say Deerfield consistently punches above its weight,” said Jessye Deane, executive director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce & Regional Tourism Council. “Deerfield works as a front door and a backbone in a lot of ways. It’s where a lot of visitors first experience Franklin County, and it’s also home to businesses that quietly operate on a regional and national scale, and it’s great that they found their home here.”

Elaborating, she said easy access off I-91 and multiple attractions combine to make Deerfield a destination for people looking for fun and education across a broad spectrum, whether it’s candles, beer, butterflies, or 18th century history — lots of it.

The last item on that list can be found at Historic Deerfield, an outdoor museum that interprets the history and culture of early New England. And, like other venues celebrating that time in the nation’s history, it is gearing up for the country’s 250th birthday with several new exhibits.

These include “Picturing the Revolution,” an exhibit that explores the diverse ways in which 18th-century individuals ‘pictured’ or understood the revolution as it unfolded, with maps, drawings, ceramics, and even satirical cartoons; “Dressing the Revolution: Fashion and Politics 1760-1789,” a display that includes more than 20 garments, accessories, textiles, and prints that illuminate the role of clothing at the time of the Revolution; and “A Town Divided: Deerfield in the Age of the Revolution,” an exhibit that explores how this rural Massachusetts community responded to the upheaval of the late 1760s through the 1780s.

They will all open April 18, said Amanda Lange, director of the Curatorial Department and curator of Historic Interiors for Historic Deerfield, adding that these and other programs will shed light on a time being brought into focus by the 250th celebrations — as well as some current events — and also bring more people to the museum and Deerfield.

“It’s an increasingly interesting time to be re-examining the birth, or origins, of the United States of America and the foundational documents,” Lange said, “as well as what was going on here, especially in Western Massachusetts, at that time.”

Amanda Lange

Amanda Lange

“It’s an increasingly interesting time to be re-examining the birth, or origins, of the United States of America and the foundational documents, as well as what was going on here, especially in Western Massachusetts, at that time.”

Overall, it promises to be an intriguing year for Deerfield, with new owners at Magic Wings, new programs at Historic Deerfield, more concerts at Tree House, and the many other draws. For this latest installment of its Community Spotlight series, BusinessWest looks at how Deerfield lives up its billing as a both a front door to Franklin County and the backbone of the region’s tourist economy.

 

Taking Flight

Tubbs told BusinessWest that she’s held leadership positions at several businesses, including a stint as wedding and event coordinator for the former Yankee Pedlar in Holyoke, but never owned one until now.

“I’ve always made money for other people,” she said, adding that all this changed, and she started working for herself, when she saw a notice on the internet that Magic Wings was for sale. “I thought, ‘that’s nice,’ and I closed my computer, but my brain would not let it go.”

Thus began a lengthy process of due diligence, learning a business that would be foreign to just about everyone, and talking her brother, an aerospace engineer by trade, into coming out for a look, and then eventually to come along for the ride.

“I knew there was a lot of stuff I didn’t know about — heating and cooling, for example — that I needed his help with,” she explained. “I do know weddings, I do know events, and I knew that this place was awesome.”

Sukys, who was working for GM in Michigan when his sister first started the exploratory process, said it was a slow, gradual course by which the two decided not only that they wanted to buy the business, but that they could make it a success.

“From the get-go, we were excited about it, but it was over time that we came to realize that we could make Magic Wings happen and also thrive,” he explained. “Then, it was like a full-out commitment, and I moved out here entirely; I got a lot of hands-on experience just being here.”

“From the get-go, we were excited about it, but it was over time that we came to realize that we could make Magic Wings happen and also thrive.”

All of the above took about two years, and in mid-January, they began a new era in this venerable business, officially taking over for another sister-and-brother team, Kathy Siore and George Miller.

The business plan calls for everything from updating the heating system and making it more efficient — a temperature of 70 to 75 degrees must be maintained for the butterflies — and also making the conservatory even more of a destination, especially for events. Several weddings are staged there each year — ceremonies and receptions alike — and Tubbs wants to do more of them, as well as birthday parties and other gatherings.

Meanwhile, there are plans to add a glass-blowing studio, reopen the café at the facility and broaden its menu, incorporate more local art in the gift shop, and offer classes in everything from painting butterflies to preserving butterfly wings they find in nature.

This is a year-round business, Tubbs noted, and January is actually a popular time to visit, both to beat back cabin fever and enjoy a few minutes without needing a winter coat.

“It’s the best way to get to the tropics without going very far,” Sukys said, adding that people come just to get a break from winter and smell the flowers in the conservatory.

Magic Wings and its new owners comprise one of many intriguing business stories in Deerfield, said Deane, noting that, while tourism is the dominant force, the town’s economy is quite diverse, featuring a solid mix of hospitality ventures, retail, manufacturing, education, agriculture, and service businesses.

This image is one of many that will be on display as part of the “Picturing the Revolution” exhibit to open on April 18 at Historic Deerfield.

This image is one of many that will be on display as part of the “Picturing the Revolution” exhibit to open on April 18 at Historic Deerfield.

It also boasts both legacy businesses and institutions, such as Deerfield Academy, Historic Deerfield, and Yankee Candle, and relative newcomers, such as Marty’s Local, a regional food distribution company founded in 2015 that connects more than 100 local farms and food producers with restaurants, schools, grocers, and institutions across New England and New York.

“That’s the best part about Deerfield — it’s not one product or one sector; it’s really an ecosystem,” she noted. “There’s agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and culture, and they’re all intersecting in Deerfield in a visible way.

 

Stitch in Time

As she talked about the new exhibits soon to open at Historic Deerfield, Lange noted that she’s sensing growing interest, not just in that round-number anniversary celebration to climax on July 4, but in the period being celebrated.

The Ken Burns documentary The American Revolution has certainly helped fuel such interest, she said, as have the many commemorations in area communities of the Henry Knox Trail, the route of Col. Knox’s famous ‘noble train of artillery’ from Fort Ticonderoga in New York to the army camp outside Boston, a trek that ended in January 1776.

Knox and his men didn’t pass through Deerfield, Lange said, but there was plenty of other history written in this community, as a trip to the museum will reveal.

And the new exhibits to start in April will shed more light on the period and the people who lived through it, she said, adding that the museum has been planning for the 250th for some time now, especially with regard to assembling items for display, both from its own collection and other sources.

The “Picturing the Revolution” exhibit, for example, will include some battle plans for an engagement in 1780, showing the arrangement of the regiments and troops of the Continental Army.

“It didn’t happen because they were betrayed by Benedict Arnold,” she explained, adding that the plans were scrapped, and the forces were instead deployed to reinforce the fort at West Point.

The battle plan is among the dozens of items that will be on display at the museum across three exhibits. The “Dressing the Revolution” exhibit will focus on fashion, but also the manufacturing of items here and the profound shift — after the imposition of onerous taxes on British-made goods — toward non-importation. The “Town Divided” exhibit, meanwhile, will present multiple perspectives on how Deerfield residents embraced, rejected, or questioned Revolutionary ideals, said Lange, adding that the community was evenly split, more so than other area towns, between Loyalists and Whigs.

Other programming includes three one-act plays set in Deerfield during July 1774, on the eve of the Revolution, as well as a recreation of a tea party staged by Loyalists in defiance of non-consumption agreements. Historic Deerfield expects these various exhibits and programs to draw more people to the museum than would be considered typical.

Meanwhile, at Tree House, the brewery will continue to be a major draw, when it comes to both beer and music.

“Tree House has always been a destination, and not much has changed in that regard in the past decade,” co-founder Nate Lanier said. “We draw from all over — we’ve had visitors from more than 50 countries in the past year alone.”

Music has become a big part of the scene, he added. “Music has always been part of the Tree House experience. It goes all the way back to a record player in our original red barn in Brimfield. We started our concert series in Charlton with a small show, developed relationships with artists and promoters, and grew from there. Today, we’re hosting nationally touring acts; it’s been a natural evolution.

“Last year, concerts accounted for roughly 10% of our foot traffic in Deerfield,” he went on. “The concert-going crowd is significantly more diverse than our regular customers, which is great for us and for the region. Concerts are a challenging business, as we’ve learned the hard way, but they’re a significant economic driver: they generate regional lodging, food, and transportation spending, along with foot traffic to other businesses in the area. We’re proud of the role we play in making Deerfield a unique destination.”

And the backbone of the region’s tourism economy.

Zeno Temple

By
Zeno Temple
Class of 2026

Founder, Just Us Movement

He Shows Up Every Day Striving to ‘Get One Better’

 

Zeno Temple played football at Western New England University.

He started on the defensive line and eventually moved to offensive guard. He played all four years he was at the school, and the teams he played on did well, winning the Conference of New England title each year and advancing to the Division III playoffs.

Temple, who spent several years working as a community safety outreach specialist at the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office, says he takes a number of lessons from his playing days into his current work — both as a senior legal analyst with the law firm Royal Parker Spruce, working toward becoming a lawyer (he’s on track to graduate from Western New England University School of Law in May and envisions specializing in employment law); and with a nonprofit he launched called the Just Us Movement.

In both cases, he strives to do something his former head coach, Keith Emery, or ‘Coach E,’ always told his players.

“Human rights and civil rights are not things where you can sit back and be like, ‘OK, I have those, and everything will be fine.’ These are things that always have to be advocated for and fought for.”

“He told us, ‘you gotta show up every day and get one better,’” Temple recalled, noting that the one refers to 1%. “He said it every day — ‘one better, one better.’ I keep that handy and ready because it’s true; I try to get one better in some aspect of my life every day.”

This philosophy, if you will, of continually getting 1% better is reflected in the broad mission of the Just Us Movement — to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and dismantle systemic barriers through legal education, health and wellness initiatives, and dynamic leadership programs — and its specific initiatives.

They fall into three categories — education, law, and health — and include everything from a program called Nourish the Neighborhood, through which Temple and his team have served hundreds of families with fresh meals; to a series of Know Your Rights workshops, free webinars covering topics from immigration encounters to mental health in the workplace; as well as the distribution of Red Cards, pocket-sized constitutional rights guides.

Temple is also establishing what he calls the Emerging Leaders Council, a pipeline for young professionals and students entering fields like law, education, and healthcare. It’s designed to cultivate the next generation of justice-driven leaders, he said — people who will carry forward the values of equity, service, and community advocacy.

“Zeno is one of Hampden County’s emerging leaders, whose work is transforming how communities access support, advocacy, and empowerment,” wrote Khadijah Allen, the Just Us Movement’s chief of staff. “His leadership reflects a clear vision — that justice and community well-being must be accessible to everyone, not just those who know how to navigate complex systems. That belief is the foundation of his work and the driving force behind the movement he leads today.

“Zeno is a Difference Maker because he doesn’t just witness inequities — he responds to them with action,” Allen went on. “Through the Just Us Movement, he has built a model of leadership that uplifts, empowers, and unites communities. His work is not only changing individual lives; it is shaping the future of justice and advocacy in Hampden County.”

Zeno Temple says the Just Us Movement aims to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and dismantle systemic barriers

Zeno Temple says the Just Us Movement aims to empower individuals, strengthen communities, and dismantle systemic barriers.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

Reflecting on what’s been done in the year since he started the nonprofit — and the work still to come — Temple said there are many needs within the community, including equal access to justice.

“It sounds so simple, and it sounds so basic, but it’s true — justice as a whole needs to be accessible to everyone, period. And I don’t think that we’re doing a good enough job of that as a society, and my goal is to make that a reality.”

 

Knowing the Score

Temple grew up in Philadelphia and recalls that his early aspiration was to become an architect.

“As the years went on, I got more in tune with current events and things that were going on, like Trayvon Martin,” he said, referring to the case of the Florida teenager shot and killed by a neighborhood watch member who claimed self-defense and was eventually acquitted of second-degree murder and manslaughter. “I was glued to the TV and, for the first time, saw what was going on.

“I started becoming more interested in the law,” he went on, adding that this interest, while keen, took a back seat to athletics. He played football in high school and in his senior year commenced a search for schools where he could continue playing.

“I visited a ton of schools and fell in love with Western New England,” he said, adding that, while playing, he also majored in law and society and became a life-skills mentor to younger players on the football team.

“When the freshmen would come in as athletes, we’d be the people to look out for them, help them out, check in on them, make sure their grades were good, and get them any resources they needed,” he recalled, adding that these experiences helped inspire his advocacy efforts to come later.

After graduating in 2020, at the height of the pandemic, he took some time off, went back to Philadelphia, did some policy work, and helped with a few political campaigns, before getting an offer to return to Springfield and work in the DA’s office as a community safety outreach specialist.

In that role, he worked as part of a small unit that worked within the community on several initiatives, everything from school visits to talk with students on a variety of subjects to court tours, by which young people became acquainted with the legal system, from arraignment to trial.

“Zeno is a Difference Maker because he doesn’t just witness inequities — he responds to them with action.”

“It was a cool job … we went into schools across Hampden County, getting to students early and doing prevention work,” Temple explained. “We talked about internet safety, alcohol and drug abuse, driving safety, and more. We had those discussions in big group settings, but also smaller sessions as well.

“Having that connection with the students was amazing,” he went on. “Being out in front of 100 high school students or middle school students and talking about important topics … it was not just educating the students, but also educating myself, trying to keep up on what’s new and what’s happening so we can be most productive and most helpful to the community. It gave me the opportunity to work on my public speaking skills, while also finding lanes to grow as an individual.”

Temple started attending law school at night in 2022, and is closing in on his degree, with intentions to focus on employment law and civil rights. As a paralegal and senior legal analyst at Royal Parker Spruce, he is gaining additional learning experiences while sitting in on mediations and other sessions.

Inspired by several factors — everything from the example set by his mother, a social worker, to the work he’d become involved with at the DA’s office, to various, and obvious, needs within the community, he started the Just Us Movement roughly a year ago.

As noted earlier, the Chicopee-based agency has a broad mission and service area (Western Mass. and Northern Conn.) and several focus points.

These include Nourish the Neighborhood; a Community Earth Day initiative (tree planting and neighborhood beautification); virtual programs to connect community members with information and resources; a back-to-school teacher supply drive in Hartford; participation in the Dignity Grows Partnership, a national initiative that provides hygiene and menstrual care products to individuals experiencing period poverty; a Black Balloon Day webinar on March 6 to join others in honoring those lost to overdose; and more.

 

The ‘Rights’ Thing to Do

Each of these initiatives grew out of need and a desire to meet it, Temple said, adding that the Nourish the Neighborhood effort is a good example. It was inspired by efforts undertaken by a friend at shelters in Philadelphia.

“I was thinking, ‘we should definitely do something like that up here,” he recalled, adding that the first effort, one that provided meals to more than 70 people — with his mother, also a caterer, doing most of the cooking — was in Hartford, with others to follow in the 413.

“We knew it was the right thing to do and that we were on the right track,” he said, adding that two more events followed over Thanksgiving and Christmas, with more planned for this year.

Another key element of his mission is education, including Know Your Rights seminars. These are free webinars on topics such as “Bridging the Gap: Access to Justice and Community Engagement,” “Know Your Rights: Law Enforcement and Immigration Encounters,” and “Mental Health in the Professional World.”

“We have some amazing people come in and speak on these panels — judges, attorneys, people who work in the community,” he said, adding that there have been seven of these webinars to date, with other subjects ranging from employment law matters to record sealing and expungement, and they are available on YouTube and various social media platforms.

The most recent offering was on Feb. 7, a program on housing featuring officials with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.

And the response has been very positive, he said, adding that several dozen people have attended the live webinars, and there are usually energetic rounds of Q&A at the end of each one.

Behind these events is the simple philosophy that information is power and that access to justice and the rights that many take for granted is in many cases not equal.

“Human rights and civil rights are not things where you can sit back and be like, ‘OK, I have those, and everything will be fine,’” he said, adding that recent events in Minneapolis and elsewhere have driven home this point. “These are things that always have to be advocated for and fought for, and right now is the most important time to have people speak up for human rights. We need to realize that we all matter.

“The easiest thing to say would be, ‘I want peace and happiness, and things like that,’” he went on. “But we also have to realize that history repeats itself, and we all have to do a better job of learning from history, in all facets of life.”

Looking ahead, Temple wants to keep growing the Just Us Movement and broadening its impact. “I want us to be an organization that reflects the community we serve, and I want it to be an organization that will serve the community based on access to justice.”

This brings him all the way back to that notion of getting 1% better. It’s a personal goal, of course, but also something everyone involved in the Just Us Movement strives for.

“That’s what we do here — 1% better,” he said. “If you try to shoot for 1% better every day for a year, and you reach that, at the end of the year, you’ll be doing well.”

That mindset certainly helps explain why Temple is a Difference Maker.

Margaret Tantillo

By
Margaret Tantillo
Class of 2026

Executive Director, O’Dell Women’s Center

Her Life’s Work Centers on Helping Women Overcome Barriers to Success

Margaret Tantillo has spent her entire career in the nonprofit space, much of it with the Girl Scouts, and then for almost a decade leading Dress for Success Western Massachusetts.

“I’ve always worked in organizations in support of women and girls — and that was purposeful. I had a passion for it,” she said.

“There were some experiences that led me to understand that women are treated differently, and that there’s a need for women to support each other,” she added, citing a persistent wage gap between men and women as one example.

“Women take the more responsibility for childcare, for elder support. So there are benefits to lifting women up — especially the women that we serve,” she went on, referring to her latest role, which she accepted in early 2024, as executive director of the O’Dell Women’s Center, a philanthropic organization that supports low-income women in and around Springfield in a variety of ways.

“I’ve always said that not everybody gets dealt the same cards, and my hope, personally, is to sort of even the playing field,” Tantillo explained. “I could have just as easily been born into a household that was not well-off financially, and that would have been my barrier to overcome. But the hand I was dealt was middle-class, and there was no question I was going to go to college.

“Margaret’s dedication ensures that women and families have stability and access to essential resources during difficult times.”

“So for me personally, it’s like, where’s the fairness?” she went on. “We’re all getting different opportunities, and and they’re just not equal, so by working in women’s organizations, what can I do to even the playing field?”

The O’Dell Women’s Center was inspired by Connie O’Dell, who served for more than 40 years as a maternity nurse at Providence Hospital and dedicated her life to caring for women with dignity, compassion, and respect. Founded in 2023, the center occupies a 10,000-square-foot facility in the heart of Springfield.

Its most visible arm is its foundation, which provides grants, typically ranging from $10,000 to $75,000, to local nonprofits that advance educational, workforce, and career development opportunities for low-income women, as well as nonprofit organizations that address systemic barriers, such as food insecurity, childcare access, transportation, and housing instability.

The foundation distributed $550,000 in 2025 to support women and families across Springfield, and an estimated $750,000 in grants will be awarded in 2026.

The center also houses Dress for Success Western Massachusetts, which was displaced from its longtime home at the Eastfield Mall when that complex was about to be torn down and redeveloped. The O’Dell Women’s Center offered it about 5,000 square feet of space — more than $80,000 in free rent annually — to continue its work without interruption, said Jessica Roncarati-Howe, who succeeded Tantillo as head of the organization in 2024 — and is one of two individuals who nominated her as a Difference Maker.

Margaret Tantillo says she understands Springfield and its needs, and is grateful to be in a place where she can make an impact.

Margaret Tantillo says she understands Springfield and its needs, and is grateful to be in a place where she can make an impact.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“This single act ensured that hundreds of women in Springfield and surrounding communities could still access professional clothing, employment coaching, career development, programming, and the support networks that help them thrive,” Roncarati-Howe said. “The O’Dell Women’s Center did not just give us space; they gave us stability, dignity, and the ability to keep serving women who rely on us every day.

“What impresses us most is that this generosity is not an exception — it is the model,” she added. “The Odell Women’s Center provides free gathering and meeting space for women’s groups and is actively seeking additional nonprofits to join the building at low or no cost. Their goal is to create a true community hub where women can access multiple resources under one roof, reducing barriers and strengthening the social and economic fabric of Springfield.”

“We’re hoping to see quality relationships that align with our values of treating women with compassion, not assuming what other women need, but kind of walking hand in hand to provide that support.”

Mydalis Vera, founder of Guerrera Writer and a volunteer at the center, noted its support of food pantries during a particularly challenging time for food insecurity, pointing out that the center distributed $100,000 in emergency support to Springfield-area pantries late last year, helping families navigate the pressures of SNAP benefit changes and a temporary federal government shutdown.

“Margaret’s dedication ensures that women and families have stability and access to essential resources during difficult times,” Vera said, adding that Tantillo also spearheaded a successful diaper drive, partnering with local agencies to collect more than 40,000 diapers and registering more than 200 families to receive this essential support. “Her tireless commitment to uplifting women and families, providing practical assistance, and fostering long-term stability truly sets her apart as a leader and changemaker in the community.”

 

Spreading the Wealth

In her former role as executive director of Dress for Success Western Massachusetts, Tantillo increased the budget sevenfold and grew the organization from one program to five, all in the service of helping unemployed and underemployed women achieve economic independence. And, as Roncarati-Howe noted, it was a natural fit to operate out of the O’Dell building in downtown Springfield.

“Dress for Success is its own nonprofit; they have their own board of directors and run their own thing,” Tantillo explained. “We have a very collaborative relationship, and now it’s like, ‘what else can we bring in to support women?’ It’s a slow build. In some ways, we’re providing the next step, the next circle of resources for women.”

The funding for Dress for Success’ rent-free tenancy comes from the O’Dell Women’s Center’s family foundation, she added.

Margaret Tantillo says it’s important to lift women up,

Margaret Tantillo says it’s important to lift women up, and she’s spent much of her career doing just that.
Photo by
Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“These partnerships reflect our belief that economic stability is built through coordinated, community-driven solutions,” said Keely Krantz, founder and president of the O’Dell Women’s Center Foundation. “When women have access to basic needs, education, and career opportunities, entire families and communities are strengthened.”

To demonstrate how the O’Dell grants target the upward mobility of women, the 2025 grantees included:

• Bay Path University, to support a new emergency assistance initiative for Springfield-based students facing unexpected crises, including housing instability, transportation challenges, and lack of basic necessities, helping women remain enrolled and complete their education;

• Dress for Success Western Massachusetts, to provide a continuum of career support, including professional attire, career readiness, coaching, and advancement services that help women achieve long-term financial independence;

• Girls Inc. of the Valley, to continue supporting the Eureka! Program, a no-cost, five-year STEM initiative that empowers girls to envision themselves as part of the future workforce through hands-on learning and sustained mentorship;

• The Gray House, to strengthen adult education services for low-income migrants and refugees, including ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) instruction paired with essential life and job skills training;

• It Takes a Village, to expand basic needs programming that fills critical service gaps for low-income women and families, helping remove survival-level barriers to economic stability;

• MassHire Holyoke, to implement the GLOW program in Springfield, a holistic workforce initiative combining intensive case management, job placement, and wrap-around supports to address barriers such as childcare, transportation, housing instability, and digital skill gaps;

• South End Community Center, to provide out-of-school programming that offers safe, reliable childcare through after-school, vacation, summer, and school-closure programs, supporting parents’ ability to work and pursue education;

• Tech Foundry, to deliver digital literacy instruction, professional development, and career mapping for women participating through YWCA programming; and

• United Way of Pioneer Valley, to expand direct services for underserved women by increasing food pantry access and strengthening Thrive Financial Wellness programming through individualized financial coaching.

As the center’s executive director, Tantillo ensures that the grants are directed in the most impactful ways and that the building’s physical resources are used responsibly, and most of those efforts specifically help women navigate barriers to stability and build sustainable futures, she explained.

“I understand Springfield and its needs, and I work very closely with the founder, who is one of the kindest, smartest women I’ver ever met,” she said of Krantz. For example, “with that emergency food funding, I said, ‘this is what’s going on with SNAP. I think we need to do this.’ And she said, ‘yes, that makes sense.’”

The decision wound up putting the planned grant outlay for 2025 $50,000 over the original budget, but the issue was deemed an urgent one. So Tantillo went about approaching area food pantries directly to get a sense of how many people they serve and what their needs were, then facilitated the grants.

While most of the center’s work focuses on providing a path to academic stability through career advancement and education, the $100,000 outlay for food pantries isn’t as much of an outlier among the other grants as it might seem.

“In the organizations that we provided funding for, you’ll see those [career] paths as well as some basic needs, because there are a lot of barriers for women,” Tantillo explained. “Like, we didn’t necessarily fund childcare, but we fund out-of-school programming, so when women are working, there’s a safe space for their children to go. So we’re going from immediate needs, basic needs, to supporting long-term opportunities.”

 

Walking Together

As part of that effort to connect women with education and career opportunities, the center is piloting something called the Bridging Navigator Peer to Peer mentorship program, which pairs mentors with lived experience with low-income women to help connect them with resources and pathways that lead to educational and career advancement.

One of those navigators is Areliz Barbosa, an assistant professor at Bay Path University and one of BusinessWest’s Healthcare Heroes last fall, who has often spoken about the dire challenges she has had to overcome in life.

“I was shocked to hear that she slept on a bench for a little while,” Tantillo said. “We’re going to pair her with a woman who may be in a situation where she can’t see her future — because she certainly has achieved a professional level of success.”

If the pilot expands, she added, “we’re hoping to see quality relationships that align with our values of treating women with compassion, not assuming what other women need, but kind of walking hand in hand to provide that support. The Bridging Navigator program will probably help women access social services or steer them toward Dress for Success or encourage them to take a training or go to community college to get that certificate.”

The O’Dell Women’s Center also offers free space for clients and community nonprofits to use, including a small, private conference room; an office with several desks; and a large, central meeting or presentation space. Tantillo said the center has also forged a partnership with MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board, which will physically place a representative in the building.

Meanwhile, she added, with nonprofits facing a tough funding landscape, she would like to bring area organizations together to determine what efficiencies exist and how they can complement each other’s services.

These are just some of the ways Tantillo brings people and resources together with the general goal of elevating women — which she has done, in some form, over her entire career.

“I just provide the opportunity, and people kind of join in,” she said. And by doing so, she continues to be a true Difference Maker.

Jess Miller

By
Jess Miller
Class of 2026

Comedian and Founder, The Kind Squad

She Leads Thousands of People Whose Small Gifts Make a Big Difference

Jess Miller has survived plenty of struggle.

She lost her mother to a divorce when she was 8, then had a traumatic experience in the Army, then lost her mother again — this time permanently, to suicide — a few years after that.

But difficult experiences can be motivators, too — in her case, to spread kindness in a hard world.

“Being kind is just caring about people, right?” she said. “If you’re kind, you actually care about doing good things for other people. That’s kind of my philosophy.”

It’s a credo that led to Miller performing stand-up comedy starting about 15 years ago and turning those shows into benefits for local nonprofits — and, eventually, to her creation of the Kind Squad. First a Facebook page launched in 2015 and now an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it’s essentially a collection of people who gather online to donate to fundraising drives aimed at helping people in need — or just making someone’s day.

Miller explained the humble origins of the organization. In 2020, during the pandemic, she wanted to do something to contribute to the community and started a campaign called Art Kits for Foster Kids, posting about it in the Facebook group to solicit donations.

One member expressed interest in donating, but mentioned not having enough money to pay her own water bill. Miller calculated that, if 100 people donated $3 each, they could help cover the bill. So they did, and the model was born — what is now thousands of people who take up the call for small donations that collectively add up, leading annual campaigns ranging from Art Kits for Foster Kids and Mother’s Day Flowers for Foster Moms to the pre-holiday Western Mass. Toy Drive, which, this past December, collected more than $100,000 in toys, which were distributed in partnership with numerous agencies.

“The Kind Squad is built on a simple but powerful mission: to show children and families in need that they matter — and that their community truly cares.”

In all, the Kind Squad has raised approximately $300,000 not just for those annual campaigns, but for one-time requests that come in from across the region — and the entire U.S., for that matter.

“Maybe this homeless shelter needs a little jungle gym. I literally write everybody’s donations out, I buy the stuff, I put the receipt out — 100% in, 100% out. And that’s kind of how we’ve been. It’s micro-philanthropy — just people who want to give.”

Karin Jeffers, president and CEO of Clinical & Support Options (CSO), who nominated Miller as a Difference Maker, appreciates how the spirit of the Kind Squad goes well beyond helping others and speaks to the meaning of kindness itself.

“The Kind Squad is built on a simple but powerful mission: to show children and families in need that they matter — and that their community truly cares,” Jeffers said. “The Kind Squad has helped literally thousands of children and families, providing toys, essential items, emotional support, and moments of joy during some of the most difficult times of their lives. Jess leads this work with no expectation of recognition or reward. Her motivation is purely selfless: to make a real difference, one family at a time.”

Long before Jess Miller launched the Kind Squad, she was using her comedy platform to raise funds for nonprofits.Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

Long before Jess Miller launched the Kind Squad, she was using her comedy platform to raise funds for nonprofits.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

Jeffers pointed out the recent toy drive’s haul and its “extraordinary impact” on families. “She ensured that countless kids experienced the magic of the holidays — many for the first time. But Jess’s work goes far beyond gifts. She understands that what families often need most is reassurance: the knowledge that they are not forgotten, that someone sees them, and that kindness still exists. By showing up with compassion, consistency, and heart, Jess delivered something even more meaningful than toys — hope.”

That’s real impact — generated by a true Difference Maker.

 

Early Stages

Miller’s foray into performing in public didn’t get off to the most auspicious start — she tried out for America’s Got Talent.

​“I didn’t do comedy; I sang. And I killed the song. I literally killed it. Not in a good way, but in a very, very bad way,” she recalled. “But I had fun, and I wanted to do that again. I love performing.”

So she took some acting classes — “because I really sucked” — and eventually landed a part in the musical Rent at Exit 7 Theater in Ludlow. She enjoyed that a lot, but had an itch for comedy, so she took a comedy class at Carolines in New York City, then tried some improv in Boston.

Progress was slow — she auditioned for another musical as well, but didn’t get cast — before one of her teachers gave her some advice: “if you want to do comedy and you’re not getting gigs, book yourself — post your own shows.”

So around 2013, Miller produced her first comedy show — a fundraiser for foster kids for the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC). In fact, comedy benefits were the model right from the start — make people laugh, raise money for a good cause.

“Then I started doing monthly performances called the OMG! It’s Only Wednesday comedy show. Every month, we would try to do something to benefit the community. So, if it was bringing a can of food, you’d get five bucks off a ticket. Tickets were already cheap. But bring a coat, bring in hygiene products, you get five dollars off a ticket,” she explained. “I think, when you’re in business, you should be grateful that people support you, and try to give back to your community.”

A few years later, she opened up a venue in downtown Springfield, called the OMG! Comedy Club, that ran into issues with the landlord, and that project eventually shut down. “That was just before COVID, though, which may have been a good thing,” she said.

Which brings her story to 2020, when the Kind Squad — due to that woman reaching out about an unpaid water bill — started to become more than a Facebook page. “It just stacked up from there. We’re close to $300,000 at this point, just doing little missions like that.”

The week before she spoke with BusinessWest, Miller and her team of volunteers had completed a coat collection for a homeless shelter, and they’re constantly receiving other requests from far and wide that the Kind Squad community, currently about 2,700 strong, quickly responds to.

Miller’s wife, Stephanie Greenberg, partially explained why foster kids and foster moms are so important to the nonprofit’s work.

“I think it’s important to be able to give to kids because they don’t have a voice — especially foster kids. I mean, they get nothing. I used to be a teacher, and when they get moved, they just get a trash bag full of whatever they had in their house that they were able to grab at the time. And it’s just sad to see that. So anything we can do to make their lives, especially the holidays, a little happier for them, I think it’s good.”

Kim Dougherty, a volunteer with the Kind Squad, said the model works because each individual commitment is very light — the power is in the accumulation of all those tiny donations.

“It’s not a matter of, ‘oh my God, we need to give 100 bucks.’ You can give $1.25, and if we all give $1.25, look at what we can do. It gets infectious because you want to spread it to everybody else — to say, ‘hey, look at this. It’s minimal; it’s really not a lot.’ How many people can throw a dollar aside? Most of us can. So I think the simplicity of it was what drew me in — it’s not going to take all my time. It’s not going to take a ton of money. It’s simple. And that’s why it works.”

“And if you can’t give a dollar,” Greenberg added, “it’s not a big deal — there are other missions and other ways you can help. Like, for the toy drive, people brought in their gently used Christmas bags, and we can use them next year. That was a game changer.”

 

Kind Words

Sometimes Miller asks herself a troubling question: “why is it so hard to be kind?” And she realizes that the best way to answer it is, simply, to model kindness, showing others that it’s not that hard after all.

“In 2020, after George Floyd got killed, I was just like, ‘I don’t know what to do.’ Like, on a national or global level, what can one person do? But on a community level, a local level, you can do a lot.”

And some of it goes beyond the micro-philanthropy.

“In addition to toy drives, food drives, and fundraising campaigns to help families in need, Jess and Steph and the Kind Squad have helped families dealing with children diagnosed and going through treatment for cancer, using her Kind Squad page to gather emotional support, physical donations, and volunteers to support the family and visit them in hospitals,” Jeffers noted in her nomination.

“Jess has an exceptional ability to mobilize generosity and unite people around kindness,” she added. “She pours her time, creativity, and personal energy into the Kind Squad, building trust with families and inspiring others to give, volunteer, and care. Her leadership has created a ripple effect that continues to strengthen the community long after any single event ends.”

“I post it, and then people donate, and if we can get enough money, then the mission is completed — and we do that over and over and over again. But it never comes from me. It’s always from the Kind Squad.”

Amid the surprising success of December’s toy drive, Miller teamed up with organizations like the MSPCC’s Kids Net program, CSO, the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families, and others — “basically, we partner with whoever needs toys.”

And now, she’s thinking bigger. “If I can get the systems in place the right way, I have an idea for the Great American Toy Drive, which is all of America, all helping foster kids. It’s either me going on tour or getting at least 50 other comics involved from all 50 states, and then doing the toy drive on one night.”

She then looked around at the small, rented office in downtown Chicopee that the nonprofit calls home, and thought about the long week spent moving $100,000 worth of toys to people and organizations in need.

“If I have my own space, then I’ll be able to do a lot more. This is not big enough for us to do $100,000 worth of toys. But we have to stay small until we can afford it — because we really haven’t done a lot in terms of income. It’s mostly small grants. They’re not even grants, just very small donations to get us through. In 2024, it was tough because the focus went from helping people to paying for the space. I’m like, ‘this doesn’t feel right.’”

But since then, the volunteers — a core team of eight, plus about 30 who help with the toy drive — have eased the load significantly, allowing Miller to dream of what might be next in her mission of kindness.

“I don’t know what I’m doing. I have no clue. I jump in and I’m like, ‘I’ll figure it out,’” she told BusinessWest. “I post it, and then people donate, and if we can get enough money, then the mission is completed — and we do that over and over and over again. But it never comes from me. It’s always from the Kind Squad.”

Still, it’s gratifying to be called a Difference Maker.

“I like to make a difference. I want to make a difference,” she said. “I guess that’s what I’m getting at. I think I just want people to know that they’re not alone — and that a lot of people feel the same way. And I’m surrounded by those people. If you’re part of the Kind Squad, that means you have some humanity in you, and you care what’s happening in the world.”

Edward Sokolowski

By
Edward Sokolowski
Class of 2026

Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor, Pioneer Valley Financial Group

He Sets the Tone at a Company That Cares About Community

 

Ed Sokolowski calls it the ‘triangle.’

It comprises what he says are the three sides of any company that wants to consider itself truly successful.

One side involves the client and, more specifically, providing consistent, quality service — “you need to be there for them; we pick up calls on the weekend,” he said. Another involves employees, taking care of them, and giving them the tools they need to succeed in whatever role they might perform.

And the third involves the community and giving back to it, said Sokolowski, managing partner and wealth advisor with Pioneer Valley (PV) Financial Group in Ludlow, the company he and a few partners founded in 2002, adding that these three sides must be equal, and he makes sure that, with his business, they are.

“If we equally take care of those elements — you put the clients on top, you have the employees and the community, and you put PV in the middle … we’ll be OK,” he told BusinessWest. “We’re not here to make the most money; we’re here to make a difference in all three of those areas.”

Indeed, from the beginning, he has stressed that the company, and everyone who works for it, must be focused as much on the community as on the team and the customers.

“It’s in our mission statement — we believe in helping our clients and community live better,” he said. “Our legacy is the people and lives we have touched.”

“If we equally take care of those elements — you put the clients on top, you have the employees and the community, and you put PV in the middle … we’ll be OK. We’re not here to make the most money; we’re here to make a difference in all three of those areas.”

This philosophy has manifested itself in countless ways — from the PV Charitable Fund, which Sokolowski funds out of his own pocket, to the annual Slide into Summer Safely programs on the last day of school in Ludlow, Wilbraham, and Hampden (more on this later); from an annual First Responders Dinner, a salute put on by the company in conjunction with the local VFW, to small donations to myriad nonprofits across the region.

It has also manifested itself in a relatively new position at the firm — Community Outreach manager, a post held by Katherine (Kat) Ferri, who acknowledged that it is rare for a company this small (just 20 people) to have someone in such a role, which also includes marketing duties. But the fact that it exists, she added, speaks volumes about Sokolowski and his belief in giving back.

From left: Antonio Bastos, Ed Sokolowski, Karen Nogueira, and Kelly Haber at the Boston Business Journal’s Corporate Citizen Awards in 2025.

From left: Antonio Bastos, Ed Sokolowski, Karen Nogueira, and Kelly Haber at the Boston Business Journal’s Corporate Citizen Awards in 2025.

“Going back to when I was first interviewed, Ed talked about the company and how it has a focus on finance and helping people plan,” Ferri recalled. “And then, he went all in about the work we do in the community, the events we do, and the importance placed on giving back to the community.”

This hard focus on community has led to some recognition. Indeed, PV Financial, an employee-owned company, made its first appearance on the Boston Business Journal’s list of the state’s most philanthropic companies (what it calls its Corporate Citizenship Awards) in 2025, placing 96th in total giving ($145,000, not counting another $50,000 from the charitable fund — a large number for a small company) — but first in the average number of hours per employee devoted to community work, roughly 75 a year. The company was also among the first to be recognized by the Springfield Regional Chamber’s Super 60 category known as ‘Give Back.’

The awards are nice, and they bring attention to what is truly a team effort, said Sokolowski, adding quickly that the greater rewards come from seeing the impact of that team’s work in the community — the smiles on the faces of children at Slide into Summer Safely events or the appreciation from first responders at that annual dinner, for example.

“I don’t know how much it’s helped; we’ll probably never know, but we’ve had thousands of kids participate over the years, and we certainly think this is worth doing. It’s enjoyable to see the kids, knowing that they’re having fun, but learning.”

“I know we were happy when we crossed $100 million in assets, and then $200 million, $500 million, and on our way to $1 billion. I know I was proud, but I don’t remember the dates; I don’t remember the weather that day; I don’t remember too much,” he said. “But I do remember the kids’ faces and something that someone might say to me when it comes to charitable giving. I’m just as proud of those things, and they’re more memorable.”

 

Sharing the Wealth

Every Monday at 9, the staff at PV Financial gathers in the conference room for a weekly meeting. This room was carved out of the former LUSO Federal Credit Union offices, and there is still a teller’s window looking out onto what used to be a drive-thru.

These meetings start with Sokolowski giving what he calls a ‘state of the union’ report on the company, its performance, and its financial health. The agenda also includes updates from partners Kelly Haber and Karen Nogueira on compliance and initiatives to serve clients, before things are turned over to Ferri, who gives a lengthy update on upcoming events and all other matters involving the company’s involvement in the community.

This is just another indicator of the importance placed on this work, said Sokolowski, who told BusinessWest that he knew what he wanted to do for a living when he was 12, when he visited the EF Hutton office that his sister worked in and saw the ticker-tape machine used to print stock prices.

As he advanced these career plans, he decided early on that he wanted to work on the financial consulting side, rather than the stockbroker side.

“There’s a big difference between buying and selling stocks and doing financial planning,” noted Sokolowski, who ran the investment arm of the former Palmer Goodell Insurance before launching PV Financial Group in 2002. “I like watching money grow, but I’d rather watch what it does for people at the other end. Money can help in so many ways; it doesn’t necessarily buy happiness, but it helps, for sure.

The team at PV Financial puts a hard focus on community involvement.

The team at PV Financial puts a hard focus on community involvement.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“I didn’t want to call people and say, ‘I have a hot stock tip for you,’” he went on. “I’d rather do that longer-term planning.”

This thoughtfulness, this caring about people and their futures, permeates every aspect of this company, and all three sides of the triangle. That includes the community side, which includes many different types of giving.

The list includes monetary donations — almost all of them small in nature, meaning a few hundred dollars — to a wide array of groups of causes, from Rick’s Place and Ludlow High School hockey to the WillPower Foundation and Baystate Children’s Hospital; from Belchertown Little League and the Southwick Animal Shelter to the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts and the Michael J. Dias Foundation.

“We rarely say no when we’re asked,” said Sololowski, adding that the company likes to spread the wealth, if you will, and support as many causes and agencies as it can.

But it’s important to note that the giving back goes well beyond writing checks — and, again, it’s a company-wide effort, with Sokolowski setting the tone.

He said he was influenced by his upbringing — he grew up in a low-income household and attended a state university (what is now Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts) — and also by mentors, especially Bob Carnavale, president of Palmer Goodell.

“He was a very philanthropic person — he gave back a lot, and that’s how he ran his business,” said Sokolowski, adding that, like Carnavale, he and his team members make giving back a corporate philosophy.

 

Getting Creative in the Community

When it comes to those 75 volunteer hours that employees spend on average, Sokolowski — who’s very proud of that number and knows it by heart — said the company likes to get creative in this regard.

By that, he meant fun and productive, such as staging putt-a-thons and fling-stick challenges to raise additional money at charity golf tournaments, rather than playing in the event.

“We try new things,” he said, putting the Slide into Summer Safely programs in that category. Undertaken in cooperation with local police and fire departments, and started a dozen or so years ago in Ludlow and later expanded into Wilbraham, they place on the last day of the school year.

“The thinking was that, if we can talk with them right before they head into summer break, that would be ideal; that’s when they get into trouble — riding bikes without helmets, fireworks, swimming,” he said, adding that the challenge would be how to get students to come to such a program after school let out, and then how to get to them to listen and respond to what they were being told.

The answer was a program that’s as entertaining as it is educational, with ice cream, slides, popcorn, and more.

“I don’t know how much it’s helped; we’ll probably never know, but we’ve had thousands of kids participate over the years, and we certainly think this is worth doing. It’s enjoyable to see the kids, knowing that they’re having fun, but learning.”

“In order for the kids to get free popcorn and ice cream, they have to go up to a police officer or firefighter,” Sokolowski explained. “They’ll be asked a question — like a firefighter asking, ‘what do you if you light yourself on fire?’ And the kid has to say ‘stop, drop, and roll.’ If it’s a police officer, he’ll ask, ‘what do you do when you swim?’ And the kid has to say, ‘you swim with a friend.’ Their wristband gets marked, and then they get the free food.

“I don’t know how much it’s helped; we’ll probably never know, but we’ve had thousands of kids participate over the years, and we certainly think this is worth doing,” he went on. “It’s enjoyable to see the kids, knowing that they’re having fun, but learning.”

Another program the company has initiated is a first responders dinner event, staged in conjunction with the local VFW post. First responders from across the area, including the Ludlow, Wilbraham, and Hampden police and fire departments, the Massachusetts State Police, the Hampden County Sheriff’s Office, veterans, and others participate, said Sokolowski, adding that the event has grown in size since it was initiated eight years ago.

Meanwhile, in the planning stages is another event to recognize several of the area’s nonprofits, perhaps five a year, across different realms, with the twin goals of educating people about their missions and how they are carried out, while also raising money for these groups.

“For every dollar we spend, we should fundraise the same dollar amount back,” he said, adding that organizers are looking at higher-end bingo and raffles as options for fundraising. “It’s a way for the nonprofits to just show up and not have to worry about planning the event or fundraising.”

Meanwhile, the event should provide another creative way for PV Financial employees to volunteer, he said, adding that the company is always looking for fun ways to get employees involved in the community.

It’s just another example of how PV Financial focuses on that third leg of the triangle — one of the keys to this company being truly successful, and one that makes Sokolowski, who sets the tone for all of this, a true Difference Maker.

Julie Quink

By
Julie Quink
Class of 2026

Managing Principal, Burkhart Pizzanelli, P.C.

She’s a Role Model, Tone Setter … and Great Listener

Julie Quink says it’s easy for accountants to get involved in community.

Indeed, she said, there’s no shortage of small nonprofits who need CPAs on their boards to help handle the books, and over the years, she’s done some of that, as almost everyone in the profession has.

And she encourages all members of the team at Burkhart Pizzanelli, P.C., the firm she serves as managing principal, to get involved as well — and, when possible, to go much further than crunching numbers for nonprofits and regional institutions, although that’s important, too. And here, she sets the tone.

She’s affiliated with several professional groups, such as the Massachusetts Society of CPAs and the Assoc. of Certified Fraud Examiners; sits on some boards — those at Baystate Health, Greater Springfield Senior Services, Monson Savings Bank, and Square One, among others — and serves as treasurer for the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce, I Found Light Against All Odds, and the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County.

“One of the things that Square One does is allow us, when the coats come in, to help the kids choose their coat, and some of our team members take part. It’s a completely amazing event for us, and over the years, it has helped the team share my commitment to that organization because we can see that the little work we do for this fundraising really has an impact on these kids.”

But she does, indeed, go further, such as with Square One’s Operation Warm, a program that provides winter coats for kids; she has made the firm the sponsor of that initiative and inspired team members and clients alike to support those efforts.

“One of the things that Square One does is allow us, when the coats come in, to help the kids choose their coat, and some of our team members take part,” she noted. “It’s a completely amazing event for us, and over the years, it has helped the team share my commitment to that organization because we can see that the little work we do for this fundraising really has an impact on these kids.”

Julie Quink with Burkhart Pizzanelli co-owner Deborah Penzias

Julie Quink with Burkhart Pizzanelli co-owner Deborah Penzias.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

With that, she tells the story of a now-retired staff member at Burkhart Pizzanelli who had a sign outside his office that read ‘Grumpy Old Man.’

“He was self-proclaimed,” Quink said. “He went one year when the team met with the kids to hand out coats, and he was on his knees with these little people, and he had the biggest smile on his face. And I just thought, ‘if there was nothing else worth it in this whole entire thing, just seeing the look on his face and the joy that doing what he was doing brought … that’s what it’s really about for me.’”

Quink’s success with creating such moments is one of many reasons why she will be among those honored as Difference Makers in 2026. Others include the way she serves as a mentor and role model to those on her staff, creating an atmosphere that is more like a family than a business.

“Julie believes that we live and work in a community, and everyone has a very important role to play,” said Rebecca Connolly, director of the Auditing Department, who nominated Quink for this award. “She takes her role as a business owner and as a role model — not only for her staff, but her family and clients — seriously.

“At work, we joke that we don’t think Julie sleeps because she is so busy with helping small business owners with their businesses, helping them to grow their businesses, navigating tough financial times, while coming out on the other side feeling more supported and in better financial position,” Connolly added, noting that she does all this while serving on several boards, supporting the initiatives of several nonprofits, and serving as adjunct faculty in the MBA accounting program at Elms College.

Quink says she enjoys all aspects of this balancing act and finds the time for all of it, even during tax season — which isn’t really a season anymore, she noted, saying, “it never ends.”

“I can tell you personally that I take away much more than I give when it comes to organizations I belong to and work with, as a board member or even as a volunteer,” she told BusinessWest. “It makes everything worthwhile when you see the impact that you have on someone else’s life.”

Julie Quink spends a moment with a Square One student as winter coats are distributed as part of Operation Warm.

Julie Quink spends a moment with a Square One student as winter coats are distributed as part of Operation Warm.

Overall, Quink excels at listening, responding, and being there for people — in all aspects of her life and every corner of the community.

 

It All Adds Up

Quink told BusinessWest that, while in high school, she developed an affinity for numbers and accounting.

“My accounting professor recognized that I had a talent in that area — I wasn’t even focused on it, really — and urged me to explore it,” she recalled. “It was interesting to me, and I understood it; I’m not a scientist, and I could never be a medical professional — I don’t have the stomach for that sort of thing — so accounting was it.”

She considered UMass Amherst and Elms College, and chose the much smaller, much more intimate setting, and never regretted that decision, becoming the first in her family to graduate from college.

“I’m a firm believer that you end up where you’re supposed to be,” she said, adding that she enjoyed the small class sizes there. “In hindsight, had I gone to a large institution, I probably would have gotten lost in the system. It was a benefit to me, and that’s one of the reasons I teach at Elms.”

She started in the field as senior accountant at what was then KPMG Peat Marwick in Springfield and later worked for 17 years at J.M. O’Brien & Co., P.C. in Springfield as director of Audits and Business Issues.

She came to West Springfield-based Burkhart Pizzanelli, now celebrating its 40th anniversary, in 2011 as part of a succession plan, serving first as senior manager of Audit/Consulting before becoming a principal in 2013 and then managing principal in 2015. She’s now spent 35 years in the profession and has seen a good amount of change, especially when it comes to culture.

“When I came on, you were expected to work long hours, you were expected to travel … it was just something you knew was part of the job; it was expected of you, and you did it,” she explained. “Now, it’s a lot different in terms of culture; we’re really focused on our team members here, their wellness, their well-being, their career trajectory. It’s really come a long way.

“Quality of life is really important to the younger generations, understandably, and the meaningfulness of what they do is important,” she went on. “We’ve had to adapt to all that.”

Elaborating, she said Burkhart Pizzanelli was at what she called the “front end of that curve,” which is one of the things that attracted her to the firm. And as managing principal, she is determined to stay ahead of that curve.

“What’s really important for us is balance,” she told BusinessWest, noting that there is now a staff of 25. “I think we, as a leadership group here, are really in tune with what’s impacting our team, and we can make changes and adapt workloads quickly if we see that someone’s overwhelmed.”

Beyond balance, she and others on the leadership team are focused on mentoring and being positive role models for younger staff members.

“All the leaders here have a strong desire to make sure our team is happy, growing in their positions, exposed to new opportunities … so we all take mentoring very seriously,” she said. “If I were to look at where I spend my time during the day, I’d say maybe an hour or two a day is spent in conversation about ‘how can we do this better? Where are we at? And how can I be a resource for you?’ We want to be hearing what’s going on, and we want to be adapting where we need to make change, and that takes a lot of listening. So I like to think I spend a lot of time listening.

From left: Julie Quink with team members Sarah Lapolice, Rebecca Connolly, and Deborah Penzias

From left: Julie Quink with team members Sarah Lapolice, Rebecca Connolly, and Deborah Penzias.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“If I want people to come to me as a leader with a problem, an issue, something I can solve, my advice … I must be authentic, and they need to feel like they’re being heard,” she went on. “I’m really focused on what’s important to them because, if it’s important for them, then it becomes important for me.”

 

Warm Thoughts

This ability to listen and act on what she’s hearing is one of the many reasons why Connolly considers Quink, the tone-setter for the company, a Difference Maker.

“She really believes in family — she remembers everything about you,” she said. “No matter if it’s April 15 and a client needs her or something has happened to a staff member health-wise, her first response is, ‘do what you need to do; we’ll cover you.’ That’s what we do — we’re a team, and we support one another.”

Indeed, Connolly said, if there is one word that perhaps best sums up Quink and all aspects of her life, it would be ‘supportive.’ That’s true when it comes to the team at work, clients, her students at Elms, and the community.

“I can tell you personally that I take away much more than I give when it comes to organizations I belong to and work with, as a board member or even as a volunteer. It makes everything worthwhile when you see the impact that you have on someone else’s life.”

With that last realm, she stressed that she gets involved with agencies and causes that she’s passionate about, and she encourages others at the firm to take that same approach. “I tell them, ‘don’t just volunteer and not feel like you’re getting meaning out of your volunteering.’”

This sentiment explains why she became involved with healthcare organizations such as Baystate Health — which is going through a challenging time, as all hospitals and healthcare systems are — as well as Greater Springfield Senior Services and Square One.

“I’m on the board of Greater Springfield Senior Services because of the really great work they do with seniors in the catchment area and folks that really need the services we can provide and connect them to,” she said, explaining that she has chaired this board for several years now. “Especially as our population ages, we want people to be able to age at home if they like.”

Julie Quink, left, and other Burkhart Pizzanelli team members take part in a program run by the Parish Cupboard, which provides meals and groceries to individuals and families in need.

Julie Quink, left, and other Burkhart Pizzanelli team members take part in a program run by the Parish Cupboard, which provides meals and groceries to individuals and families in need.

She was also drawn to I Found Light Against All Odds, an organization that helps secure housing for homeless young women — efforts that made it a Difference Maker in 2022.

“The need exists, probably more than we recognize or are aware of,” Quink said. “Homelessness is a real issue among young women, and that’s what drew me to that organization; we’re actively working toward increasing programming and creating more supports for women in that age group and in those insecure situations. Our goal is to get them off the streets or out of the situation that is harmful for them.”

With Square One, she was approached by now-retired president and CEO Joan Kagan to join the board, and almost immediately started looking for ways to get involved on a deeper level.

She recalled a conversation with Kris Allard, the agency’s vice president of Development and Communication, about the coats program.

“They had someone who worked with them prior who was backing out of the coat campaign, and she approached us about sponsoring that effort,” Quink noted. “We sat across this conference room table, and both had tears in our eyes as we talked about the conditions these kids are dealing with.

“I said, ‘sure, we’ll do what we can — we’ll be a sponsor,’” she went on, adding that it soon became a firm-wide initiative, with fundraising and then and distributing the coats.

The fundraising goal this year was $5,000, she said, noting that more than $10,000 was raised, enough to buy more than 400 coats.

“Over the years, the campaign has evolved to where our clients have gotten involved, and they remind us to send them information on the coat campaign because they want to donate,” she continued. “It’s really become important to us, but also our clients.”

And it’s just one example of how Quink and members of the firm get involved beyond handling the books for nonprofits. And another example of why this role model is also a Difference Maker.

Darby O’Brien

By
Darby O’Brien
Class of 2026

Owner, Darby O’Brien Advertising

This Unconventional ‘Mad Man’ Has Always Been Ready for a Fight

Darby O’Brien

Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

They call it the Fishing Buddies Lodge.

It’s a very informal meeting space within the suite of offices for Darby O’Brien Advertising in South Hadley, and, obviously, it is decorated to look like a fishing cabin.

It is crammed, as in crammed, with collectibles and wall art that start to tell the story of the founder of this company. There are bobbleheads, baseball gloves, New York Yankees and Mickey Mantle merch (he’s a long-time fan of the team and grew up, as many his age did, idolizing #7), a scale model of the Bluesmobile, various photos of JFK, countless mugs, hats, and, on the wall, a framed, autographed photo of Ken Osmond, famous for playing the insincere flatterer and provocateur Eddie Haskell on the classic sitcom Leave It to Beaver.

“I was a fan of Eddie’s — he was the king of mischief,” said O’Brien, the Holyoke native who shares that trait with Haskell, one of many that make him a unique character, in every sense, and contribute to his being named a Difference Maker.

Others include creativity — his ads certainly stand out as different and, generally speaking, effective — as well as genuineness, sincerity, and a passion for getting involved, often with underdog groups and causes.

“On the way out, Jeremy grabbed me by the arm and said, ‘will you fight for us? Because we can’t fight.’ I said, ‘yeah, I’ll fight to the finish, because this is wrong.’”

With that last one, there is a long list, everything from efforts to reopen Holyoke’s reservoirs to fishing and bring back his childhood baseball team, the Elmwood Jets, to lobbying against the quarrying of a local ski area with his ‘Mount Tom, I Don’t Dig It’ campaign; from early efforts to thwart casino gambling in Springfield to a campaign protesting the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council’s (EDC) decision to hire a Tennessee-based firm to rebrand the region for tourism efforts, rather than use local marketing talent.

And then, there was the Phoebe Prince case.

Prince was a student at South Hadley High School when she took her own life after persistent bullying. O’Brien is credited by many with taking the case to a regional, national, and even international stage, attention that eventually led to charges against several students and the passing of anti-bullying legislation at the state level called ‘Phoebe’s Law.’

Soon after the matter starting getting press, O’Brien remembers getting a call from Prince’s parents, Jeremy and Anne, asking if they could meet with him.

“On the way out, Jeremy grabbed me by the arm and said, ‘will you fight for us? Because we can’t fight,’” he recalled. “I said, ‘yeah, I’ll fight to the finish, because this is wrong.’

“No one was standing up,” he went on, adding that he pressed the matter, despite repeated warnings that it would be bad for his business and, eventually, several death threats.

But as with other cases in which he’s gotten involved, he’s ignored such warnings and plowed ahead. Indeed, while he likes to say he’s gotten involved in most of the issues listed above “by accident,” those who know him well say otherwise.

“He literally does not back down from a fight or a wrong,” said John Garvey, a friend and fellow marketing firm owner. “And he encourages other people to not back down when they see a wrong.”

This is certainly the case with a weekly blog of sorts that he started at the height of the pandemic as a way to keep people connected, informed, and even entertained, and also to generate dialogue on the issues of the day.

While some offerings are whimsical, such as taste testings (fruitcake and Twinkies, for example) involving his grandson, Flynn, others are poignant and thought-provoking, such as a recent tribute to his brother David (known to most as ‘Moon’) who died last month, a remembrance of one of the students shot at Kent State in May 1970, who died recently, and sharp criticism of Newton officials for making a man take down an ice rink he created in his front yard during COVID because he lacked a special permit.

“Imagine doing that to kids during this COVID-19 winter?” O’Brien asked rhetorically. “Jackasses. Look the other way and let the kids have good, clean fun, will ya?”

Such sentiments, and the williness to express them, help explain why he’s a true Difference Maker.

 

Getting the Message

O’Brien said he took note of all the things marketing experts said not to do as he was starting his business — such as not getting involved with retail or political campaigns — but, by and large, he ignored them.

Indeed, among his first clients were the men’s clothing store A.O. White and Holyoke mayoral hopeful Marty Dunn, who was waging an underdog (there’s that word again) campaign to unseat long-time incumbent Ernie Proulx.

“He was a sure-shot loser because Ernie Proulx had been mayor for 12 years, he won every ward, every precinct, and had a reputation for demolishing Irish candidates,” O’Brien recalled, adding that he drew inspiration from boxer Sugar Ray Leonard’s ‘stick-and-move’ tactics to defeat Marvin Hagler and ran a successful campaign that he called “a real strong statement about being creative.”

Suffice it to say that O’Brien has been doing things his way — not the way the experts advise — since he started his company — and, actually, long before that.

Like when he was in high school — actually, several of them, as it took him six years and several institutions to earn a diploma. He said he joked to his frustrated father, a vice president with the construction firm Daniel O’Connell’s Sons, “dad, the longer I’m in school, the smarter I get.”

He added that “I hadn’t really thought about advertising, although I was kind of a promoter as a kid.” But he was eventually “discovered” by the owner of the local firm Bewick Advertising.

“He called me, hired me, and put me in charge of new business, which I knew nothing about,” O’Brien recalled, noting that he eventually started his own agency in 1980, taking with him many of his clients from Bewick and focusing on the goal of getting more of the larger businesses in the region to use local marketing talent.

Over the course of roughly 45 years in business, O’Brien has made his mark in many different ways, starting with his approach to marketing — which is to almost dare clients, and potential clients, to look beyond what would be considered safe — something he laments that very few are willing to do now.

His ads can certainly be defined as different and creative, to the extent that the phrase ‘Darby ad’ has entered the lexicon, a reference to something bold — and at times controversial — that stands out.

One of the many marketing initiatives that could be described with the phrase ‘Darby ad.’

One of the many marketing initiatives that could be described with the phrase ‘Darby ad.’

Like the billboard featuring a Hot Table panini and the headline ‘Bite Me.’ Or the billboard for lawyer Raipher Pellegrino with the words, ‘The Iceman Sueth.’ Decades ago, there was a newspaper ad for the Springfield Civic Center promoting a tennis match at the then-Springfield Civic Center between Springfield native Tim Mayotte and Czechoslovakian Ivan Lendl. The headline read, ‘On February 9, BayBank Invites Tim Mayotte Back to Springfield to Bounce a Czech.’

As O’Brien tells the story, Lendl called the event organizers saying that was backing out of the match due to the ad, which he considered offensive, then started laughing, saying he was just kidding.

Then there’s the ad O’Brien put together for a group opposing casino gambling in Springfield. Featuring a picture of a masked man pointing a gun at the reader, it took the headline, ‘If You Build It, They Will Come.’

“You hire Darby because you want ideas,” Garvey said. “You don’t hire Darby to run your ideas by him. And for God’s sake, don’t fight him on the creative — because that is holy ground.”

Peter Rosskothen, the serial entrepreneur who has been a client of O’Brien’s for more than 30 years and worked with him on campaigns for the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, the Delaney House restaurant, and his current venture, Delaney’s Market, agreed — sort of.

In fact, he has fought him on creative content on a few occasions, but most of the time, he’s been talked into ads that were, well … different.

“He likes to push the envelope, and he makes a difference with his uniqueness,” Rothkossen said. “He’s very bold, and he tells me as a client that I’m being too conservative. I like that — I like the fact that the material tends to be different and stands out.”

 

Taking a Stance

While his marketing and advertising impact has been noteworthy, so too has O’Brien’s work within the community, much of which has involved young people, Holyoke, or some combination of the two.

Such as his efforts to reopen the Paper City’s reservoirs to fishing, a campaign that featured a group he created called the Fishing Buddies, and some escapades involving O’Brien and Peter Jourdain in Blues Brothers-like outfits. He said this effort started by accident when he and an acquantaince, who fished the reservoirs when they were young, tried to relive old memories several decades later and were chased off by police.

The Fishing Buddies Lodge

The Fishing Buddies Lodge at Darby O’Brien Advertising is crammed with collectibles that speak to O’Brien’s interests — and passions.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“There’s no reason why inner-city kids can’t fish out here,” he said, adding that, while the fight was ultimately unsuccessful, despite widespread support — the reservoirs remain closed to fishing — he had some fun and gave people something to think about. And that could be described as his MO.

It was the same with the EDC’s decision to hire a Tennessee firm to rebrand the region. After the ad campaign was created, O’Brien famously challenged then-EDC President Allan Blair to a winner-take-all ping-pong game in an ad that appeared in BusinessWest.

“I told him that if he beat me, I’d shut up and he could put me on his board, and that if I beat him, he’d give the work to the local talent,” said O’Brien, adding that, while Blair never responded, he got his point across, and had some more fun.

With the Phoebe Prince case, though, his involvement was taken to new and far more serious levels.

Encouraged by his father, who thought South Hadley officials were trying to sweep the matter under the rug, O’Brien reached out to Boston Globe columnist Kevin Cullen and went on the record for a piece titled “The Untouchable Mean Girls,” which was essentially the first news story to suggest that bullying was the root cause of Prince’s suicide.

“All hell broke loose,” recalled O’Brien, adding that national and global media were soon all over the story. Soon thereafter, he met with Prince’s parents and committed to do whatever he could to generate more press and hold those responsible accountable. And in the months and even years to follow, he was the subject of threats to his business, health, and life.

Rosskothen said he’s one of many who have, over the years, advised O’Brien that it might not be good for his business to get involved — with the Prince case, but also many of the other issues he’s become entangled with.

“A conversation like that with Darby is a pretty normal conversation because he pushes hard,” Rosskothen said. “As a friend, I sometimes tell him that; he listens, but that doesn’t mean that he follows the advice.”

O’Brien continues to push for what he considers right in his weekly blog, which he calls “Keep Up Your Dukes,” something he said repeatedly to a close friend during his recent cancer fight.

He acknowledged that the more common phrase is ‘put up your dukes,’ a nod to someone that you’re ready to fight and that they should bring it on. His take is different — meant to say that one should always be ready to fight when necessary.

He’s always been that way, and that’s what makes him a Difference Maker.

Rachelle Hannoush

By
Rachelle Hannoush
Class of 2026

Director of Youth, Violence Prevention, and Court Support Programs, YWCA of Western Massachusetts

She Has a Passion for Improving the Lives of Women, Children, and Families

Rachelle Hannoush often talks to teenagers about red flags and green flags in relationships — because, at that young age, it’s easy to mix up the two.

“Say a guy is isolating you from your family, isolating you from going to your volleyball practice. And when I ask about it, you say this is actually a green flag because it shows that they love you and want to spend time with you,” said Hannoush, whose title — director of Youth, Violence Prevention, and Court Support Programs at the YWCA of Western Massachusetts — hints at the many hats she wears there.

In this particular part of her conversation with BusinessWest, she was explaining the ‘prevention’ part of her job, especially an initiative called the HERE (Healthy and Empowering Relationship Education) Project, which helps students between ages 12 and 18 how to navigate everything from dating violence to gang activity to sex trafficking risks.

“We go into schools and teach youth different curriculum that enhances their skills on healthy relationships, violence prevention, bystander intervention. Like, if you see something, what do you do? Who do you talk to? How do you stay safe? And also, how can we have healthy relationships? What are the green flags? What are the red flags? During high school and middle school, a lot of things happen. So it’s really equipping them with skills to be able to make good decisions as they get through those teenage years.”

“What empowers our work and makes the biggest impact is when different organizations work together. And I see that here at the Y — all the departments truly live its mission, which is to empower women.”

Hannoush said prevention is effective — and is more important than ever in the age of social media and the extra pressure it places on kids.

“They can see, ‘oh, she got to go to the Caribbean for April vacation,’ or ‘she got this purse,’ or ‘she’s hanging out with this friend, and they didn’t invite me.’ There’s much more transparency and knowledge, and sometimes it can be very toxic.”

Another of Hannoush’s roles involves supervised visitation centers in Hampden and Hampshire counties, which provide secure, neutral visitation services for families experiencing domestic violence, divorce, custody, and probate issues. The program provides a structured environment for children to connect and visit with their non-residential or custodial parents.

Rachelle Hannoush says her own early struggles as a high school student in Lebanon have influenced the significant empathy she has for teenagers today.Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

Rachelle Hannoush says her own early struggles as a high school student in Lebanon have influenced the significant empathy she has for teenagers today.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“We ensure an environment that’s safe; the most important thing is the child in that scenario,” she explained. “We want the child to have this special bond with their parents, and supervised visitation creates an environment where the parent can connect or the caregiver can connect with the child in a safe environment.”

The third leg on the stool of her job description is working with SAFEPLAN, which provides vital court advocacy services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking in five area district and probate courts. These advocacy services include assistance in obtaining restraining orders, harassment orders, safety planning, and resource and referral information.

“In each of the courts, there’s a SAFEPLAN office and a SAFEPLAN advocate. And anyone that is looking to do a restraining order or harassment order, the advocates help them,” she said. “Sometimes we’re making referrals to other community organizations, or for other programs within the YWCA.”

So … it’s definitely more than a long job title for Hannoush — it’s a lot of work. And that’s not even touching on some of her other community-centered projects outside the YWCA (but we will touch on those a bit later).

But she’s gratified by her copious responsibilities at the YWCA, where she started working last September after years of being connected to the nonprofit as a volunteer and advocate.

“It’s amazing work, and I’ve always been a fan of the YWCA, even before I started working here,” she said. “What empowers our work and makes the biggest impact is when different organizations work together. And I see that here at the Y — all the departments truly live its mission, which is to empower women.”

 

Humble Beginnings

Hannoush grew up in Lebanon, and to say she encountered struggles in school would be an understatement.

“The reason my family moved was because I was, you might say, the troubled child. I remember to this day, my principal telling my mom, ‘don’t bother with her; she will be nothing in life.’ And I had to redo my freshman year because I failed it. I was going through a lot back then — just teenage stuff — but nobody stopped to ask, why is she doing this?’” she explained. “I think that’s why I care so much — that experience really informed my work. But I didn’t come to that conclusion until much later.”

First came a dramatic turnaround when her family settled in Holyoke.

“It was my sophomore year of high school, and the change in school environment shifted me to become almost a straight-A student,” she recalled, adding that she still derives motivation from her high school experience in Lebanon. “That principal’s words will never leave me — I will be something, and I will do my best, and I will always be looking for more.”

Those years also gave her a deep empathy for the challenges of young people, which is why she found herself working in early education.

Her path there wasn’t exactly linear; she originally went to school for nuclear medicine. But she loved spending time with the children during internships at Boston Children’s Hospital, and when she had her first child, she began to understand the critical role of early education for a working parent — and its cost and access challenges — and she began to explore that as a career.

“I love science, so I was able to blend science with motherhood and education,” she said. “I started as an assistant teacher and then went back to school and got my teacher certification, then lead teacher certification, then director certification. And that started my educational leadership journey.”

A few years later, in 2019, Hannoush found herself developing a passion for professional development and also came across across the Children’s Trust, a Boston-based organization that addresses child abuse and neglect, which was looking for trainers.

“As early educators, as caregivers, we’re mandated reporters, which means, if you see something, you have to report it. My staff had always taken the mandated reporter training, but the training only shows you how to report; it doesn’t teach you how to respond. Like, if a child comes and discloses something to me, what’s the appropriate thing to say? That caught my attention and started my journey deep diving into prevention.”

The Children’s Trust eventually appointed her outreach coordinator for Western Mass. “I would reach out to different schools, different programs, anyone serving children, to say, ‘hey, we will give you training on how to create policies and procedures that ensure safe environments for children.’ Then I started doing parent workshops. With everything I do, the child is always center.”

“Rachelle has spent years working on the front lines and behind the scenes, creating systems of support and bridging gaps between agencies, schools, nonprofits, and families. Her ability to mobilize networks, build trusting partnerships, and bring diverse sectors together demonstrates the very essence of making a difference.”

That mindset led Hannoush to create an organization called Rooted Leaders, which partners with area schools, early education programs, and youth-serving organizations through parenting workshops, educator workshops, leadership services, and coaching and consulting programs.

“You cannot act in silos when you are serving children and families,” she told BusinessWest. “And if you want to have a really big impact, the impact comes from working together.”

The COVID years, especially, posed challenges for educators.

“Social and emotional development got really bad. So a lot of support was needed within the classrooms when we came back. I remember, when we came back into the classroom after COVID, the kids had to be in what I called islands. I’m like, how do we keep 3-year-olds separated? So we created islands. I got different colored rugs and it was like Pirate Island, or Lego Island, and each child got to have an island per day.

“That takes creativity and planning; we knew that it wasn’t right, but it’s what we had to do,” she added. “So how do you make it fun and exciting so children don’t feel it?’”

 

Willing to Serve

Hannoush has taken on other civic responsibilities as well. As president of the Massachusetts Assoc. for the Education of Young Children, she represents thousands of early educators across the state, advocating for policies and professional supports that strengthen the early education workforce.

And her commitment to young women is further amplified through her role with the Hampden County Commission on the Status of Women, where she champions opportunities, safety, and leadership development for girls and young women across the county.

“Her voice and advocacy contribute to meaningful conversations and initiatives that uplift the next generation of leaders,” said Lauren Kidrick, a registered behavior technician with Beacon Mental Health Services, who nominated Hannoush as a Difference Maker.

Hannoush is also an adjunct professor at the Urban College of Boston, a role she took on after earning her master-of-education degree last spring from Bay Path University. “One of my goals was to teach in higher education. I’ve been doing professional development, and I’m training everywhere, but I really wanted to experience the higher ed field.”

This depth of commitment impresses Kidrick. “Across all her roles — nonprofit leadership, statewide advocacy, higher education, and community service — Rachelle has spent years working on the front lines and behind the scenes, creating systems of support and bridging gaps between agencies, schools, nonprofits, and families. Her ability to mobilize networks, build trusting partnerships, and bring diverse sectors together demonstrates the very essence of making a difference.”

Hannoush said she’s not afraid to say no, but she also makes sure time with family comes first, noting that she and her husband, Ziad Hannoush — “my support and cheerleader from day one” — make sure their children, ages 13, 10, and 6, come first.

She’s also quick to credit others in her life, from her mother, Carol Tatarian, to her grandfather, George Tararian, for their influence on helping her overcome obstacles to success.

“My grandpa was a big supporter of mine,” she recalled. “He always really believed in me, regardless of what was happening at the school in Lebanon. He would say, ‘you are smart; you just have to put your mind to it — never give up.’ And he would spend hours teaching me, doing homework and preparing me for tests. So, whenever I succeed in something, he’s always there with me.”

That said, “I’m still figuring it out as I go,” Hannoush went on. “I do the best that I can today. I don’t think 10 years from now; I think one day at a time, one month at a time. Wherever I see an opportunity to make a difference, to help someone, I take the opportunity — because that’s what stays. That’s our legacy — our legacy is our impact.”

And that’s why she’s able to take on so much, to be a true Difference Maker — because helping others succeed, as others helped her, is deeply meaningful.

“Entrepreneurship has given me the ability to dream beyond survival and focus on legacy,” she said. “I come from a place where nothing was handed to me, and that reality fuels my passion to build something meaningful for my family, my children, and the community I serve. I want to show that it’s OK to want more, to pursue different goals, and to redefine what success looks like. Breaking generational cycles means not only changing our circumstances, but also creating access, hope, and opportunity for the next generation.”

Ryan Alekman and Robert DiTusa

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Rob DiTusa (left) and Ryan Alekman
Class of 2026

Partners, Alekman DiTusa, LLC

Beyond Helping Clients, They Have Created a Culture of Giving Back

Rob DiTusa (left) and Ryan Alekman

Rob DiTusa (left) and Ryan Alekman    Photos by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

 

While talking about the culture of giving back that permeates their Springfield-based personal injury law firm, Ryan Alekman and Robert DiTusa brought up a new tradition — one that has been part of their last two Thanksgiving potluck lunches, and will continue going forward.

“Every staff member gets $100 with a letter that says, ‘you can do whatever you want with this $100. You can put it in your pocket, no shame; everyone’s got their own needs. But we ask that you consider paying it forward,’” Alekman explained.

A month later, at the firm’s holiday party, employees are asked to share, if they’d like, what they did with the money.

“Invariably, everybody has done something to give back to another person. Somebody will say, ‘I took that $100 and added my own $100 and I gave it away.’ And everybody’s clapping because they’re so excited that they work with people who think that way.”

DiTusa added, “it always shocks me, the diversity of things that people do. Somebody gave it to a stranger; they literally saw a stranger in need at a store, who didn’t look like they had much, and they paid it forward right there on the spot. They said the person was in tears. Other people say, ‘my church has a charity drive, or a toy drive.’ Somebody else said, ‘I brought my kid to Target and told him we’re buying toys today, but none of them are for you.’ They were showing their kid how to give back.

“The community has really embraced us; we have a very successful business, we help a lot of people, and that, by itself, is great. But watching everybody who works here have that same value set of wanting to make the world a better place … that’s fantastic.”

“It really does warm my heart to know how many lives you’re able to touch just by sending people out with $100 to do some good,” he said — just one way in which giving back to the community has become firmly embedded in the company culture.

“We’re very fortunate,” Alekman said. “The community has really embraced us; we have a very successful business, we help a lot of people, and that, by itself, is great. But watching everybody who works here have that same value set of wanting to make the world a better place … that’s fantastic. These are incredible people that we work with.”

That emphasis on giving back is something potential hires understand before they join the firm, Alekman and DiTusa told BusinessWest; it takes many forms, and it’s something that has been honed over time. And because these two partners set the tone, they’ve earned a spot among the Difference Makers class of 2026.

Rob DiTusa

Rob DiTusa says giving back to the community has become an infectious part of the law firm’s culture.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

Alekman thought back to the tornado of 2011 as a time when much of this community involvement was coalescing. They were already supporting nonprofits like the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and the Red Cross, but the tornado threw the need into stark relief.

“The Red Cross reached out and asked me, as somebody who was known in the Latino community because I’ve been on Spanish TV and radio for many years, if I would be a face that people would trust, and go on the radio and explain what the Red Cross was doing for people who had been harmed by the tornado,” he recalled. “So Rob and I did that. We raised a significant amount of money for the Red Cross back in 2011.”

The firm has also been a longtime supporter of the WillPower Foundation, which helps families with different abilities, and Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC), not only giving money to the latter, but sending teams of employees to its #GreenNFit neighborhood rebuild days, helping provide home repairs for area residents in need.

Chelsea McGrath — who met Alekman and DiTusa in 2019 when she was executive director of the WillPower Foundation, and is now vice president of Operations & Finance for Revitalize CDC — nominated them as Difference Makers.

“They are extremely financially generous, donating extensively to many nonprofits in the area and abroad,” McGrath said, citing the aforementioned nonprofits as well as Square One, Rachel’s Table, Community Legal Aid, Ronald McDonald House, Suit Up Springfield, and New North Citizens’ Council, a few of the dozens of nonprofits the firm supports.

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, when WillPower’s funding was significantly limited, I asked them to increase their already very generous annual contribution, and they did not hesitate to do so,” McGrath added. “However, they don’t just write a check and go about their day. They are extremely generous with their time and commitment to community service as well.”

But the partners are always sharing credit with their team.

“They enjoy it. They feel like they’re part of it. They see what we’re doing, and then they engage in it,” DiTusa said. “When it comes to giving, some people are natural givers — they’ve grown up with it, maybe they knew somebody that was philanthropic and they want to emulate that, or maybe they were helped by a charity at some point in their life and they thought, ‘I’m going to give back when I have my opportunity.’ Whatever drives you to it, you get there.

“But sometimes,” he added, “you can show other people how to give, and it’s really infectious.”

 

Courting Success

Alekman has been practicing law for 28 years, while DiTusa has been in business for more than 30 — and at one point was renting an office from the former. They found they got along well, so in 2010, they decided to team up.

“When I was renting space, we started to do some cases together, and we discovered that our skill sets were so complementary that we made a really good team,” DiTusa added, explaining that he specializes in litigation, and Alekman prefers negotiating with insurance companies and pressing for settlements.

“So putting those two skill sets together made a whole lot of sense,” he added. “And we both love what we do; not all lawyers can say that.

Ryan Alekman

Ryan Alekman says it’s gratifying helping people who call on their worst days to find fair resolutions.
Photo by Bob Zemba, Simple Truth Imaging

“When I look back at the past 15 years, the most satisfying thing is the fact that we’ve grown this firm from two lawyers to seven lawyers, and from five people to 25. That’s something I didn’t necessarily imagine. It’s been incredibly satisfying to be able to grow something very small to what I think is a pretty decent-sized firm, and be able to serve as many people as we do.”

DiTusa said he was drawn to personal injury law because he’s always considered himself an underdog and wants to advocate for people like that.

“As a lawyer, I see myself as somebody who stands up for underdogs, somebody who’s willing to fight really hard and for people that have been taken advantage of.”

Alekman encountered the personal injury discipline in a more random way. His mother was a lawyer in Boston, and after his undergraduate studies, he took a job at a personal injury firm, where he developed a knack for the customer service side of the business — communicating with clients in a way that his co-workers did not. He developed a taste for it and attended law school, eventually working in personal injury and criminal defense, but eventually focusing solely on the former.

“Every day, we wake up, and we get to help people. And I’m passionate about helping people,” Alekman said. “I know that sounds cliché, but we literally wake up in the morning, and someone’s going to come to us with a problem, and we we get to solve that problem, and it just feels really good.”

Both were quick to credit their team for the firm’s legal successes.

“Every time that we get a large settlement, every time we do something that’s really good for a client, I make sure I go around to the staff and say, ‘hey, you were part of this. This isn’t just our victory,’” DiTusa said. “If we’re not all rowing in the same direction, we don’t get the results that we’re able to get.”

And that goes for both their work with clients and the firm’s community service, with priorities ranging from food insecurity to anything having to do with children — and sometimes both.

“We’re just one part of a bigger system that gives back to people. And, trust me, there is great need in Springfield, but there are also a lot of great people in Springfield that help fill the need.”

“Nobody should go to sleep hungry. We live in one of the wealthiest countries in the world, and people go to sleep hungry. It’s insanity. That shouldn’t be a thing, right?” Alekman said. “We hear from people at Square One about how they provide food to kids to bring home on the weekends because otherwise they’re not sure those kids are going to eat. How can you not want to support an organization that’s doing that?”

 

Case in Point

Many walls at Alekman DiTusa feature nature photographs that Alekman has taken on trips around the world.

“I share my photos on Facebook, and a friend of mine said, ‘hey, you should do a calendar,’” he recalled. So he did — but he wanted to use the proceeds to give back, so for the past four years, he has sold those calendars of his international photos to support Mara United School in Masai Mara, Kenya.

The first year, he donated $1,500 from those sales to get the school tied into a nearby village’s well, the first time the kids were able to access fresh water. Other years have funded electricity at the school, a small tractor to help with agriculture, and, most recently, 48 triple bunk beds, mattresses, and other items for a new girls’ dorm.

“I’d love to be able to fund every project,” Alekman said. “One of the things that we don’t get to do very often is to see how our support makes a difference, and going to that school — I’ll actually be back in October, and I’ll get to visit the kids again — it’s amazing how much they do with so little and the difference a small amount makes to change lives over there. So Rob and I are fortunate because we get to do what we do — we get to help people.”

And so does their staff, he added. “They put us in a position of success every day. They come to work with the same attitude — to help somebody. And we’re helping people on their worst days. I mean, nobody’s like, ‘yay, I get to call a lawyer.’ No — someone got injured, or something horrible happened to a family member.”

With their success, he added, comes a responsibility to give back, which is why the firm’s success in its legal cases is so tightly interwoven with its work in the community.

“We’ve worked hard and been fortunate enough to be in a position to be able to give back, so we do,” DiTusa said. “We’re just one part of a bigger system that gives back to people. And, trust me, there is great need in Springfield, but there are also a lot of great people in Springfield that help fill the need.

“I always think, if you’re in a position to be able to give and you do it, you make yourself a better person,” he added. “I think it’s called selfish giving. Giving is good for everyone, and we have to do it as a community. But it’s also selfish in a way because, by doing it, you also feel good. The moment you make that gift, you feel better about life, about everything. And the more you do it, the better you feel.”

McGrath, who has been on the receiving end of the firm’s generosity in more than one setting, doesn’t see it as selfish at all.

“Their honesty, integrity, and dedication shows in their commitment to service,” she said. “They truly embody every aspect of what it means to be a Difference Maker.”

Berkshire Workplace Expert to Address Employee Disengagement Crisis at CEO Forum

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Daily News

PITTSFIELD — With U.S. employee engagement at a 10-year low, nationally recognized workplace expert Linda Dulye, president of Berkshire-based Dulye & Co., will show executives how to transform spectators in their companies into active contributors at the Gulf Coast CEO Forum on Wednesday, Feb. 25 in Sarasota, Fla.

Dulye’s interactive workshop — “The Predator Killing Your Company’s Productivity: How to Eliminate Spectators at Work” — equips leaders with practical tools from her Spectator-Free Workplace methodology to build strong connections through delegation, dialogue, and collective decision making.

“Workplace spectators are the silent productivity killer,” Dulye said. “No company, regardless of size or industry, can afford employees who simply show up but check out without contributing their knowledge, skills, and ideas. To stop the spectator syndrome, companies need to take urgent, intentional actions that build genuine ties that unify employees within and between work teams.”

Founder of Dulye & Co., a consultancy recognized for transforming workplace breakdowns into measurable performance gains, Dulye’s proven Spectator-Free Workplace strategies strengthen manager effectiveness, team collaboration, and employee accountability.

Dulye is also the founder of the Dulye Leadership Experience, a pro bono professional development organization producing fee-free learning and development resources to help multi-generational professionals connect and build career ownership.

Established in 2011, the Gulf Coast CEO Forum convenes leaders to address shared workforce and leadership challenges through education, networking, and professional exchanges.

Springfield Chamber Players to Present ‘Windscape’ at 52 Sumner on March 1

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Chamber Players will present an all-woodwind concert, “Windscape,” on Sunday, March 1 at 3 p.m. at 52 Sumner in Springfield.

Yeh-Chi Wang, principal bassoon of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, will lead a quintet of wind players to perform works by Milhaud, Beethoven, and more. He will be joined by flutist Ellen Redman, hornist Robert Hoyle, clarinetist Lynn Sussman, and oboist Karen Hosmer to bring waves of the spring wind to uplift attendees’ spirits.

This concert is part of a series at 52 Sumner in which the Springfield Chamber Players will feature more musicians in their second season. Another series at the Westfield Athenaeum, as well as a partnership with the Springfield Youth Orchestras, are also planned for this season.

Elms College Announces New Partnership with the State University of Haiti

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — Elms College intends to ratify a new partnership agreement with the State University of Haiti to create a continuing education program. A signing ceremony is planned for Tuesday, Feb. 17 at Elms College.

This agreement will build upon Elms College’s other university partnerships in Haiti. In 2019, a partnership was established between the Elms College School of Nursing and the Episcopal University of Haiti School of Nursing. That partnership, now the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Haiti Nursing Continuing Education Program, brings together nurse faculty from across Haiti and uses a train-the-trainer approach, with nursing faculty from the Elms College School of Nursing training nursing faculty from across Haiti in leading-edge nursing skills that they bring to their own students. The overall goal is to improve the health of the Haitian people.

“Elms College is pleased to partner with the State University of Haiti to develop a continuing education program for teachers in Haiti,” Elms College President Harry Dumay said. “Elms College has deep experience in preparing educators through our Division of Education and our Center for Equity in Urban Education. The State University of Haiti also has great teacher training expertise through their Ecole Normale Superieure.”

At the signing event, Elms College will welcome leaders from the State University of Haiti, including Rector Dieuseul Predelus, Professor Ricot Pierre-Louis, and Professor Marie Chantal Dumay.

This partnership aligns with Elms College’s mission, rooted in the values of the Sisters of St. Joseph, to pursue the common good and improve the lives of all people.

40 Under Forty Nominations Due Feb. 24

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for its 20th annual 40 Under Forty awards.

The 40 Under Forty program was launched in 2007 to honor young professionals in in the region, not only for their career achievements, but for their service to the community. Winners hail from a host of different industries; many are advancing the work of long-established businesses, while others have created their own entrepreneurial opportunities. Nominators help BusinessWest identify young professionals in the four counties of Western Mass. who have stories that deserve to be told.

Nominations for the 40 Under Forty class of 2026 are due by Tuesday, Feb. 24. They can be submitted at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form. For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Greater Holyoke Chamber Announces Annual St. Patrick’s Breakfast

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — The Greater Holyoke Chamber invites the entire community to its annual St. Patrick’s Breakfast, presented by Witman Properties, PeoplesBank, HG&E, bankESB, and Greenfield Cooperative Bank. The event will take place on Wednesday, March 18 at 7:30 a.m. at the Log Cabin. This traditional gathering offers an opportunity for residents, business leaders, community leaders, and community members to reconnect, celebrate local achievements, and honor this year’s distinguished award recipients.

The breakfast serves as a cornerstone event for the Greater Holyoke area, bringing together hundreds of individuals to celebrate the city’s rich heritage and vibrant future. Building on a year filled with meaningful community engagement — including a successful food drive, numerous new business ribbon cuttings, and a host of collaborative initiatives — the chamber is proud to continue fostering connections that strengthen the fabric of Holyoke. This year, the chamber aims to make the celebration the largest in recent memory, rallying the community to support business owners and civic leaders as awardees.

Award presentations will be complemented by a raffle featuring a variety of prizes. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to submit raffle prizes, further highlighting their commitment to the community, while attendees are invited to purchase raffle tickets in advance or at the breakfast to support the chamber’s efforts. As an added highlight, crowd favorites Last Night’s Fun will return to perform, bringing atmosphere and entertainment to the breakfast.

Businesses interested in maximizing their participation are invited to purchase tables, ensuring strong visibility for their teams and organizations. Visit holyokechamber.com to register as a guest or sponsor, and secure raffle tickets as well.

U.S. Navy Concert Band to Perform Free Show in Springfield on March 1

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The U.S. Navy Concert Band is bringing its Northeast Tour to Springfield Symphony Hall on Sunday, March 1 at 2 p.m.

The free concert, presented by Spirit of Springfield and sponsored by Yellowstone Landscape, is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. with a family-friendly concert. It features a broad selection of musical works, from American classics to contemporary pieces. Selections include works from John Philip Sousa’s “Washington Post March,” The Wizard of Oz’s “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Aaron Copland’s “Buckaroo Holiday,” John Williams’s “Liberty Fanfare,” “America the Beautiful,” “Armed Forces on Parade,” and much more.

“Touring the nation and performing concerts means connecting with communities and telling the great stories of our sailors working around the globe to keep us safe and free,” said Capt. Robert “Seph” Coats, commanding officer of the U.S. Navy Band.

The U.S. Navy Band consists of 50 musicians and vocalists, plus a production team. Almost all of the sailors in the band have undergraduate degrees in music, and most have graduate degrees. Their last Springfield concert was in 2016.

“It is an honor to host the U.S. Navy’s premier band in Springfield Symphony Hall,” Spirit of Springfield President Judy Matt said. “The performers love the acoustics, historic architecture, and the enthusiastic audience.”

Tickets are available at Pride Stores, the Springfield Visitor Center at 1319 Main St., and the security desk at One Financial Plaza at 1350 Main St. in Springfield. They can also be obtained by mailing a self-addressed stamped envelope to Spirit of Springfield at 1350 Main St., Suite 1004, Springfield, MA 01103. Those without tickets can still attend; they will be seated 10 minutes before the start of the performance.

Free parking for the concert will be available in the I-91 South Garage courtesy of the Springfield Parking Authority.

State Seeks Feedback on Implementation of High School Graduation Requirements

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Daily News

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced it is inviting the public to help inform how high school graduation requirement recommendations will take shape and be put into practice before the final K-12 Statewide Graduation Council report is released in June. Students, parents and caregivers, educators, district leaders, businesses, and community members can complete a survey online by clicking here. The survey should take 10 to 12 minutes to complete.

“This is an important chance for students, families, educators, and partners across Massachusetts to share different perspectives before the Graduation Council’s final report is released later this year,” said Education Secretary Patrick Tutwiler, who co-chairs the Graduation Council. “The survey allows us to listen carefully, learn from diverse voices, and give everyone an opportunity to shape our final recommendations. I encourage everyone to fill it out, and look forward to engaging with more community members.”

Gov. Maura Healey, in collaboration with the council, released a statewide graduation framework in December that sets graduation standards to prepare all students for success after graduation. The framework consists of seven elements focused on helping students build a strong academic foundation, demonstrate mastery of course content, show their creativity, and develop real-world problem solving skills. It aims to be a balanced system that values academic rigor, practical skills, and personalized planning for all students so that they are set up for success no matter what path they choose to pursue after high school.

Picture This

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Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, the Food Bank’s Cheyenne Burnham and Executive Director Andrew Morehouse, and Kelly Pignatare of Westfield Bank.
Picture This

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

 

Combating Food Insecurity

Westfield Bank recently donated $10,000 to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, which addresses hunger in Western Mass. by distributing nutritious food, coordinating with local agencies, and advancing long-term solutions to combat food insecurity. Westfield Bank’s contribution will help provide meals, mobilize resources, and expand community outreach efforts throughout the region. 

Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, the Food Bank’s Cheyenne Burnham and Executive Director Andrew Morehouse, and Kelly Pignatare of Westfield Bank.

Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, the Food Bank’s Cheyenne Burnham and Executive Director Andrew Morehouse, and Kelly Pignatare of Westfield Bank.

Commitment to Giving Back

As part of its robust support of area nonprofit organizations and civic initiatives through volunteering, board service, committee involvement, and hands-on activity, Riley Home Realty recently donated $11,960 — 100% of the proceeds from its fourth annual summer event — to Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry in Chicopee. 

Pictured, from left: Nick Riley and Kate Riley (second and third from left) with, from left, Mike Dugre, Aida Gaouette, Kim Caisse, and Donna Marratta from Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry.

Pictured, from left: Nick Riley and Kate Riley (second and third from left) with, from left, Mike Dugre, Aida Gaouette, Kim Caisse, and Donna Marratta from Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry.

Investing in the Community

Monson Savings Bank announced a $100,000 pledge to support the Scantic Valley YMCA’s capital campaign, helping fund major facility renovations and enhancements. Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty (right) and Executive Vice President and COO Michael Rouette (left) recently presented the pledge to Dexter Johnson (center), president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Springfield. The capital campaign focuses on several key improvement projects for the Scantic Valley YMCA, including a new roof, renovated locker rooms, modernization of the workout area, and the construction of new outdoor pickleball courts.

Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty (right) and Executive Vice President and COO Michael Rouette (left) recently presented the pledge to Dexter Johnson (center), president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Springfield.

Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty (right) and Executive Vice President and COO Michael Rouette (left) recently presented the pledge to Dexter Johnson (center), president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Springfield.

Agenda

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Agenda

40 Under Forty Nominations

Through Feb. 24: BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for its 20th annual 40 Under Forty awards. The 40 Under Forty program was launched in 2007 by BusinessWest to honor young professionals in in the region, not only for their career achievements, but for their service to the community. Winners hail from a host of different industries; many are advancing the work of long-established businesses, while others have created their own entrepreneurial opportunities. Nominators help BusinessWest identify young professionals in the four counties of Western Mass. who have stories that deserve to be told. Nominations for the 40 Under Forty class of 2026 are due by Tuesday, Feb. 24. They can be submitted at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form. For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

 

Michael’s Café Reopening

Feb. 19: JGS Lifecare, a healthcare system serving seniors and their families and an affiliate of Legacy Lifecare, announced the grand reopening of Michael’s Café, the nonprofit organization’s popular dining venue, at 2:30 p.m. Michael’s Café is named in honor of Michael Frankel, past board chair, cherished friend, dedicated leader, and longtime supporter of JGS Lifecare. Following his sudden passing in 2013, the café was designed as a centerpiece of the Sosin Center for Rehabilitation — a kosher eatery to serve residents, families, staff, and volunteers, while also welcoming members of the broader community. Donations to build the café were raised through the Project Transformation Campaign. Following its reopening, Michael’s Café will offer a refreshed menu featuring seasonal weekly specials, rotating sandwich options, and daily homemade soups. Additional offerings include convenient grab-and-go items, a full salad bar with specialty sides, snacks, and a wide selection of hot and cold beverages. The grand reopening event will include light refreshments, welcoming remarks, and a lively social hour. A spring reception is also being planned to celebrate all donors who made Michael’s Café possible. Located at 770 Converse St. in Longmeadow, Michael’s Cafe will be open five days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., staffed by volunteers working with café Manager Vivian Hatwood.

 

Springfield Leadership Institute

Feb. 19 to April 30: The Springfield Regional Chamber recently announced that applications are open for the 2026 Springfield Leadership Institute, an exclusive program designed to empower emerging and established leaders with the advanced skills and insights needed to thrive in today’s dynamic business landscape. The program will run on Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. This year’s program features a cutting-edge curriculum delivered by professors from Western New England University (WNE). Participants will develop advanced skills in strategic thinking, decision making, and change management while honing their abilities in effective communication and team building. The curriculum covers emerging issues such as AI, digital media, and business analytics in leadership, and helps leaders to develop an organizational culture and personal mindset that fosters innovation and collaboration while promoting ethical business practices. This program is designed to empower executives to lead with confidence, vision, and integrity in increasingly complex and competitive environments. Participants in the 2026 Springfield Leadership Institute will also receive an invitation to enroll in a complimentary graduate course at the WNE College of Business upon completing the program, a benefit available only to institute graduates. Visit business.springfieldregionalchamber.com/eventcalendar to apply.

 

Celebrity Bartending Event

Feb. 26: Coming together to support the next generation, leaders from business, government, media, and the nonprofit community will gather in Springfield to benefit Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) and its work preparing young people for economic success. The gathering takes place as part of JAWM’s annual Celebrity Bartending Fundraiser starting at 5 p.m. at Nathan Bill’s Bar and Restaurant, 110 Island Pond Road, Springfield, with all tips raised supporting Junior Achievement programs serving students across the region. Now entering its ninth year, the event has become a well-known community tradition that pairs an engaging, social atmosphere with a meaningful purpose. While participants take on a fun, unconventional role for the evening, the focus remains on advancing Junior Achievement’s mission of financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship education for young people throughout Western Mass. Proceeds from the event help Junior Achievement deliver hands-on learning experiences that connect classroom lessons to real-world careers and essential personal finance skills. More information about the event, a list of celebrity bartenders, and advance tipping opportunities are available at westernmass.ja.org/events/ja-s-celebrity-bartender-event-2026.

 

Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 27: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2026 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire their community. This year’s honorees are Al Picard as the Ernest Laflamme Jr. Citizen of the Year, HB Real Estate as Business of the Year, Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry as Nonprofit of the Year, and Heather Leclerc at Volunteer of the Year. The 41st annual Shining Stars Gala takes place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights on Memorial Drive. Tickets cost $75 per person and are on sale now. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 594-2101.

 

She Decides Women’s Empowerment Brunch

March 1: At a time when women are balancing rising economic pressure, caregiving responsibilities, and increasing burnout, the Becoming Initiative is bringing women together for something many say they rarely experience: a moment to pause, reconnect, and be supported. The Becoming Initiative will host the She Decides Women’s Empowerment Brunch at Wyckoff Country Club in Holyoke. The event is expected to serve more than 200 women from across Western Mass. and launch a year-long series of empowerment and personal development programming. She Decides was created in response to what organizers describe as a growing need for spaces that support women beyond the workplace. Many women are leading families, contributing to the workforce, and holding communities together while quietly carrying emotional, financial, and personal burdens. The brunch creates a space where women can be seen, supported, and reminded of their value. This year’s event will serve as a cornerstone fundraiser for the Becoming Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing skill-based training, personal development, and transformational experiences for individuals at all stages of life. Funds raised will directly support workshops, community gatherings, and leadership-focused initiatives throughout the year. Tickets are now available. For more information, visit www.thebecominginitiative.org/events.

 

Real Estate Sales Licensing Course

March 2 to April 6: The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley (RAPV) will offer a live, in-class, 40-hour, 16-class sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real estate salesperson license exam. Tuition is $425 and includes books and materials. The course curriculum includes property rights, ownership, condos, land use, contracts, deeds, financing, mortgages, real estate brokerage, appraisal, fair housing, consumer protection, Massachusetts license law, and more. Classes meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the RAPV office, 225 Park St., West Springfield. Applications will be accepted until Feb. 20. For an application, visit www.rapv.com or contact Laura Herring at (413) 785-1328, ext. 5, or [email protected].

 

Outlook 2026

March 6: The Springfield Regional Chamber announced that Susan Collins, president and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, will serve as the keynote speaker for Outlook 2026, taking place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Collins contributes to the Federal Open Market Committee’s deliberations on U.S. monetary policy and brings timely insight into the economic forces affecting businesses and communities across New England and the nation. Since taking office in 2022, she has led the Boston Fed’s work in economic research, financial stability, community development, and financial innovation. A nationally respected macroeconomist, Collins previously served as dean and provost at the University of Michigan and as a professor at Georgetown University and Harvard University. She was recently recognized by thr American Economic Assoc. as one of its Distinguished Fellows for 2025. Outlook 2026 will bring together business leaders and policymakers to explore what lies ahead from local, state, and federal perspectives. Visit business.springfieldregionalchamber.com/eventcalendar to register.

 

First Saturdays at the Print Shop

March 7, April 4, May 2: The Print Shop Makerspace in downtown Holyoke invites families, creatives, and curious community members of all ages to explore hands-on art and design through First Saturdays at the Print Shop, a free, monthly workshop series running February through May. Held on the first Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Print Shop Makerspace, 62 Main St., the series offers welcoming, drop-in workshops that introduce participants to the tools, technology, and creative possibilities of a working print shop and classroom space. No prior experience is required, and all materials are provided while supplies last. Each First Saturday features a different make-and-take activity designed to spark curiosity and build creative confidence. Upcoming workshops include custom sticker printing, wearable art using heat transfer vinyl, and a Print Day in May open house on May 2, part of an international celebration of printmaking and creative production. That event will feature expanded activities and demonstrations, inviting the public to circulate through the space, try multiple creative processes, and celebrate Holyoke’s long history as the Paper City while connecting to a global printmaking movement.

 

Women Making a Difference Award Dinner

March 9: Each year in March, the global community recognizes women for their achievements regardless of national, ethnic, linguistic, economic, or political divisions. The Zonta International community also celebrates Zonta Rose Day, a time to reflect and give tribute to the women who have empowered us. In this spirit, the Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley announces its Women Making a Difference Award dinner at the Ludlow Country Club. The theme of this year’s International Women’s celebration, “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” calls for inclusive legal systems, eliminating discriminatory laws, and addressing structural barriers to justice and opportunity for women and girls. The honorees for 2026 are champions for this theme: Jacqueline Velez, lead organizer for Holyoke’s Neighbor to Neighbor and community project coordinator for Live Well Springfield, drives campaigns for criminal justice reform, climate action, and housing justice. Samantha Hamilton, director of Coalition Building and Community Engagement at the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts and co-founder of A Queen’s Narrative, leverages more than 22 years of experience to advance health equity, address environmental and social disparities, and empower women and girls. Marianne Winters, who has forged a career dedicated to ending domestic violence and sexual assault, held executive leadership roles at Jane Doe Inc. and the Rape Crisis Center of Central Massachusetts prior to her nearly 15-year tenure as executive director of Safe Passage. Darlene Elias, a social worker, writer, activist, and long-time advocate in child welfare and community organizing, is a co-founder of the Writing Sisters collective and a board member of Alianza and the Straw Dog Writers Guild. The event will start with a reception at 5:30 p.m., with dinner at 6 p.m. and the program to folow. RSVP by March 2 at [email protected]. Attendees can pay at the door for the buffet ($35 for an individual or $30 each for a table of eight) or pay online. For more information, visit www.zontaqv.org.

 

Difference Makers Gala

April 7: Tickets are now on sale for the 18th annual Difference Makers awards gala, hosted by BusinessWest. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025 will be announced in the Feb. 16 issue of BusinessWest. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 or 12 are available. They can be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/difference-makers-2026-tickets. The 18th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkhart Pizzanelli and Westfield Bank. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. The Difference Makers program was launched in 2009 to recognize and celebrate the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions that are positively impacting the Pioneer Valley. For more information on tickets or sponsorships, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

People on the Move

By
People on the Move
Ella Nathanael Alkiewicz

Ella Nathanael Alkiewicz

Michael Brown

Michael Brown

Cheyenne Burnham

Cheyenne Burnham

Jeffrey Hoess-Brooks

Jeffrey Hoess-Brooks

Catherine Reed

Catherine Reed

Mark Tajima

Mark Tajima

Isaac Weiner

Isaac Weiner

The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) welcomed seven new members to its board of directors during its first meeting of 2026. Ella Nathanael Alkiewicz is founder and owner of Ella Alk Inuk LLC in Northampton. A commissioned artist, published author, and Main Street business owner, she holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Salem State University, a bachelor’s degree in journalism, a certificate in Native American studies from UMass Amherst, and a master of fine arts degree in creative writing (nonfiction) from Lesley University. Michael Brown is a financial planner with the Davis Financial Group in Hadley. He brings extensive board and nonprofit leadership experience, strong financial expertise, and long-standing involvement with chambers of commerce. He holds a PhD in English from Indiana University, a bachelor’s degree in English and Spanish from Southern Methodist University, and a financial planning certificate from Boston University. Cheyenne Burnham is Public Engagement manager for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts in Chicopee. With a background in food security and hands-on expertise in fundraising, event coordination, budgeting, and volunteer management, Burnham is particularly interested in economic development initiatives that strengthen community impact and resilience. She holds a Bachelor of Science from James Madison University. Jeffrey Hoess-Brooks, owner and Realtor at HB Real Estate, with offices in Northampton, Chicopee, and Wilbraham, joins the board with deep experience in marketing, finance, customer relations, tourism, and hospitality, along with vast knowledge of the regional real estate market. He is a graduate of Johnson & Wales University, where he studied culinary arts. Catherine Reed is executive director of Operations at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, where she has overseen major operational initiatives, including clinical systems integration, urgent care expansion, and critical COVID-19 response programs. A member of the GNCC finance committee, Reed holds an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University and a bachelor’s degree in medical technology from SUNY Fredonia. Mark Tajima is owner and partner at B. Alpha Construction LLC in Chicopee. With a strong background in construction and entrepreneurial management, his expertise includes sales and marketing, strategic planning, fundraising, and product development and expansion. Tajima studied Asian studies and French literature at Connecticut College and received a master’s degree in elementary education and conflict resolution from Lesley University. Isaac Weiner is co-owner/operator of Familiars Coffee and Tea in Northampton and Florence Pie Bar. Known for his visionary leadership and collaborative spirit, Weiner enhances GNCC’s capacity to foster coalitions and gain alignment on community-centered business development, downtown activation, and economic growth. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Trinity College in Hartford, Conn.

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Mayhew Steel Products Inc. announced that Lucy Hawkins has been named strategic account manager. With more than a decade of experience supporting manufacturing and distribution teams across customer service, operations, and sales, Hawkins will lead growth for Mayhew’s cable ties product line and help strengthen partnerships with distributors and customers. Before joining Mayhew Tools, Hawkins served as an account executive at Oliver Inc., where she was a trusted advisor to key accounts and led design projects from concept to completion. Her background also includes a role as assistant Operations manager at GDU LLC, managing supply chain operations, procurement, and vendor sourcing. Additionally, as an inside sales technical manager for Azelis Americas, she managed a sales team, drove process improvements, and contributed to significant business growth. Her extensive experience in building strategic relationships and executing projects will be invaluable to Mayhew’s cable tie business.

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Peter Pan Bus Lines announced key leadership promotions as the company looks ahead to 2026. Lauryn Picknelly-DuBois was promoted to vice president, Finance, while Peter B. Picknelly was promoted to vice president. These promotions signify the continued legacy of the Picknelly family and mark the addition of the fourth generation of family executives to lead the company. Founded in 1933 by Peter Carmine Picknelly, Peter Pan Bus Lines began as a small transportation company rooted in service and community. From those humble beginnings, the company has grown into one of the nation’s largest family-owned and -operated inter-city bus companies, delivering safe, reliable transportation across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. For nearly a century, Peter Pan Bus Lines has remained family-owned, with each generation building upon the vision, values, and resilience established by the founder.

•••••

The WooSox Foundation recognized Jodie Gerulaitis, first vice president of Community Relations at Country Bank, during its recent fourth annual WooSox Foundation Honors Gala. She was honored for her outstanding contributions to the community, particularly in advancing education across Central and Western Mass. Gerulaitis leads Country Bank’s community relations and financial literacy initiatives, delivering education programs that empower children with essential money management skills. She also spearheads the bank’s partnership with the WooSox Foundation Most Valuable Teacher program, an initiative that celebrates and elevates educators who make a meaningful difference in students’ lives throughout the region.

•••••

Jennifer Baril

Jennifer Baril

Berkshire United Way (BUW) announced that Jennifer Baril has been named its new director of Development. Baril has more than 25 years of fundraising experience designing and implementing results-driven programs for community service, education, and healthcare organizations. Previous positions include director of Fund Development for Health Equity Solutions, senior director of Fundraising for the Center for Human Development, senior Major Gifts officer at Western New England University, Philanthropy officer at Baystate Health, director of Development for Girls Inc. of Holyoke, and, at Smith College, assistant director of the Alumnae Fund followed by Major Gifts officer. She currently serves as board president of Holyoke’s only free after-school program, Homework House, and previously served with Volunteers in Service to America in Los Angeles. Baril earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from UMass Amherst and a master’s degree from UMass Amherst’s Isenberg School of Management.

•••••

Advantage Truck Group (ATG) has named its 2025 Pete DePina Legacy Award winners, recognizing one individual at each of its eight dealerships across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont for making an impact on their fellow employees, customers, and the company. Nick McIntire, warranty administrator, received the legacy award for ATG’s Westfield facility. The highest recognition an ATG team member can receive, this award is given annually to one team member at each of ATG’s eight locations who most embodies the values and qualities employee Napoleon “Pete” DePina was known for, including integrity and a quiet leadership grounded in humility, generosity, and selfless service to others. ATG team members were nominated by their peers for the award. Winners were presented with a monetary award that they will continue to receive as part of their profit sharing bonus each year throughout their employment with the company.

•••••

The Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage announced that Jessica LaMothe, loan partner and member of the Applied Mortgage Team, was honored with the Rising Star Award by the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Assoc. at its Award Breakfast on Jan. 21. This prestigious recognition celebrates emerging leaders in the mortgage industry who demonstrate exceptional performance, dedication, and promise for continued success. The Rising Star Award was created to recognize exceptional up-and-coming association member professionals who demonstrate outstanding leadership potential, dedication to their profession, and a strong commitment to excellence. Lamothe began her professional journey working alongside Nicole Laurie, Applied Mortgage Team Operations lead, in the retail industry before being recruited into the mortgage business in 2016. In her current role, Lamothe works closely with the loan origination team to guide each homebuyer from preapproval to closing and beyond. She serves as a key point of communication among all parties involved, including homebuyers and homeowners, Realtors, attorneys, and insurance agents to ensure every transaction is seamless and exceeds expectations.

•••••

The Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) announced that Ken Comia, director of the Land Use and Environment Department, has been officially elected president of the American Planning Assoc. – Massachusetts Chapter (APA-MA). Comia previously served as vice president for four years and brings extensive experience in regional planning, sustainability, and community engagement to this leadership role. “I am honored to serve as APA-MA president,” Comia said. “Over the past four years as vice president, I’ve seen firsthand the talent and dedication of planners across Massachusetts. I look forward to working with colleagues statewide to strengthen communities, foster equity, and advance innovative planning solutions.”

•••••

Meghan Boone

Meghan Boone

Tony Trinchini

Tony Trinchini

MP CPAs recently announced two promotions. Meghan Boone has been promoted to Audit manager with the firm. She manages audits, reviews, and compilations for small to medium-sized businesses. She also manages audits of Massachusetts charter schools (governmental entities), nonprofit organizations, and employee benefit plans. Boone, who joined the firm in 2020, holds both a bachelor’s degree in business management and a master’s degree in accounting from Westfield State University. She is a certified public accountant and a member of the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants. In addition to her professional responsibilities, she is active in the community by participating in various fundraising and networking events. Tony Trinchini has been promoted to tax manager with the firm. He provides consulting and tax solutions to a diverse group of clients, including individuals, estates, trusts, partnerships, and corporations. He specializes in working with high-net-worth clients and family offices. Trinchini, who joined the firm in 2020, holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from Western New England University and a master’s degree in accounting from UMass Amherst. He remains involved in recruiting and mentorship efforts with his alma maters.

•••••

The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England (ICCWNE) announced several recent appointments to its executive committee and board of directors. President Sean Cahillane, Vice Presidents Ed Sullivan and Kevin O’Connor, Treasurer Stephanie Joyce, and Secretary Lynn McCarthy have been formally approved as the ICCWNE’s executive committee and voted in by the full board of directors. The executive committee serves as the ICCWNE’s core leadership team, helping guide major decisions, support organizational planning, and ensure smooth and effective operation. It works closely with the executive director in day-to-day operations and ensures that key decisions are made efficiently and responsibly. The ICCWNE has also elected new members to its board of directors. Hilary Sullivan and Brendan Fitzgerald recently joined the board and are committed to helping the ICCWNE grow as a center of Irish culture and community in Western New England.

•••••

Dakin Humane Society has named Dr. Katie Spaulding medical director of its organization, according to Executive Director Meg Talbert. Recently, Spaulding worked as an infection preventionist for the Hawaii State Department of Health and served as a One Health Subcommittee member for the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists’ Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Task Force. While living in Hawaii, she spent six years working with various animal welfare organizations across the islands to provide accessible veterinary care and perform surgical sterilization for the free-roaming cat population there. She also worked as a marine animal stranding volunteer veterinarian with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/Hawaii Department of Land & Natural Resources, and was hired as a veterinarian for the Marine Mammal Center’s Ke Kai Ola Hawaiian monk seal hospital. Spaulding began practicing shelter medicine at Dakin Humane Society in 2010 as the Adoption Center Veterinarian, and is particularly interested in infectious disease prevention and control, as well as antimicrobial resistance. She also has a special interest in alternative sterilization methods to traditional spay/neuter for the management of free-roaming cat populations. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology and ecology from UMass Amherst and holds a dual doctor of veterinary medicine/master of public health degree from Iowa State University/University of Iowa.

•••••

North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) announced the retirement of Donna Boulanger from the bank’s board of directors, effective Jan. 12. Boulanger’s retirement marks the end of an era of leadership, growth, and community impact that has defined her remarkable career. Boulanger has been a driving force in the bank’s success over the years, most notably during her role as president and CEO from 2008 to 2022, as the first woman to lead the bank since it was founded. Her leadership steered the bank through a transformative period of growth and strategic expansion. Under her guidance as president and CEO, the bank’s asset size more than doubled, significantly strengthening its financial standing and enhancing its ability to serve customers throughout the community. During her tenure, Boulanger led the acquisition of Family First Bank, a strategic move that expanded the bank’s footprint, enhanced service offerings, and strengthened its commitment to maintaining local banking relationships. Upon retirement from the bank, Boulanger served as chair of the NBSB board of directors. She also served on the boards of the Depositors Insurance Fund, the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston, and the Federal Reserve of Boston.

•••••

Michael Fenton

Michael Fenton

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C., a regional law firm with offices in Springfield and Northampton, announced that Shareholder Michael Fenton has been named a 2025 Go To Lawyer in the field of commercial real estate by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. The annual list recognizes fewer than 40 top-tier attorneys who demonstrate excellence in their practice area and are regarded as leaders by their peers. Fenton is the only lawyer from Western Mass. to be selected for this prestigious list. Fenton, who has practiced law for more than a decade, was recognized for his extensive work in commercial real estate and finance, including tax-exempt bond financing and business planning. His passion for the field began early in his career. Fenton’s legal practice is marked by a deep understanding of title work, financing, permitting, and development — skills that make him an invaluable resource for both clients and colleagues. In addition to his legal work, he has served as a member of the Springfield City Council for more than 16 years. He currently serves as an adjunct professor of Corporate Finance at Western New England University School of Law and is actively involved in civic and nonprofit organizations, including the Conservation Law Foundation’s Legal Services Food Hub.

•••••

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts announced the addition of two community members, Dr. Elizabeth Eagleson and Ariana Williams, to its board of directors. Both bring a wealth of experience and a shared commitment to addressing food insecurity in the region. Other changes to the board include the appointments of Omar Irizarry as president, Stephen Speelman as vice president, and Mary McGovern as treasurer. Shannon Wilson remains as clerk. Eagleson is a board-certified internist and assistant professor of Medicine affiliated with Baystate Medical Center and Baystate Brightwood Health Center in Springfield. She provides comprehensive adult internal medicine care and sees patients at Baystate’s Brightwood location. Williams is a visionary public health strategist, nonprofit leader, grant writer, and consultant dedicated to advancing health equity through systems-level innovation. As chief of Public Health Strategy & Innovation at Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, she designs and implements bold, measurable initiatives that address systemic health disparities, integrate cross-sector partnerships, and strengthen community resilience. She is also the founder and CEO of Catalyst for Equity Consulting, where she helps nonprofits bridge the gap between the public health and nonprofit sectors, aligning with funding priorities, developing evidence-based programs, and driving systemic change.

•••••

Local nonprofit community behavioral health agency Clinical & Support Options (CSO) announced the appointment of Yaw Gyebi Jr. as the agency’s internal general counsel. Gyebi is a graduate of Connecticut College and Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law. He has more than 20 years of experience as an attorney and executive leader across state and federal agencies. Most recently, he served as district director at the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, overseeing complex investigations, litigation decisions, and large, multi-disciplinary teams. His background also includes senior leadership and general counsel roles in Massachusetts regulatory and enforcement agencies, with deep expertise in compliance, risk management, and dispute resolution.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

PeoplesBank Increases Donations to $1.8 Million in 2025

HOLYOKE — PeoplesBank increased its charitable contributions to more than $1.8 million over the past year, and its associates also increased volunteer hours serving area nonprofits by 15%. PeoplesBank also reported that its associates pledged an additional $40,000 of their own salaries as part of its Workplace Giving program and that it sponsored 300 community events in its market. In 2025, PeoplesBank supported nearly 500 charitable organizations, including the Care Center, the Center for Human Development, the Hampshire Regional YMCA, Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, Celebrate! WeHa, Connecticut Foodshare, the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford, and Hands on Hartford.

 

UMass Amherst Online Programs Rank Among Top 20 in U.S.

AMHERST — UMass Amherst’s online education programs have again been recognized as among the best in the nation, placing in the top 20 public and private colleges and universities for its undergraduate and graduate programs, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 rankings. The university’s Isenberg School of Management online bachelor’s degree in business program ranks fourth out of 218 institutions and was the only New England university — public or private — to place in the top 10. The school’s bachelor’s program for veterans maintained its spot from last year, ranking 11th. Two of Isenberg’s online master’s programs placed in the top five out of 206 institutions in their respective categories: master’s in business and master’s in business programs for veterans. Isenberg’s online MBA program ranks 14th, up two spots from 2025, while the online MBA ranks 13th. UMass Amherst online bachelor’s degree programs moved up two spots, to 17th among 348 public and private colleges and universities, while the Elaine Marieb School of Nursing climbed one spot to 29th and is the only Massachusetts institution in the top 40. In other graduate program recognitions, the university’s master’s in education program surged up 45 spots to 64th.

 

Construct Launches 19th Annual Warm Up the Winter Campaign

GREAT BARRINGTON — As winter temperatures drop, Construct has launched its 19th annual Warm Up the Winter campaign to help South Berkshire residents stay safe and warm. The campaign raises funds for emergency fuel and utility assistance, as well as short-term motel stays for those without housing during extreme cold. Construct, an affordable housing nonprofit based in South Berkshire County, provides affordable housing and services to 17 towns, including transitional housing, housing navigation, and assistance with rent, fuel, and/or utilities. In response to the growing need for fuel and utility support, Construct continues to host its annual Warm Up the Winter event to raise funds for local South County neighbors. The Massachusetts Home Energy Assistance Program helps residents pay winter heating and utility bills. This year, funds were delayed by the lengthy federal government shutdown, slowing distribution and leaving families waiting for help as cold weather arrived. Federal energy assistance funds are now available but cannot meet increasing needs. High fuel costs mean less help or longer waits for many households. Additionally, many fuel assistance programs in Berkshire County are less widely available due to tighter eligibility requirements. Households must earn no more than 60% of the area median income (AMI) to qualify. Construct fills a gap by assisting households earning up to 100% of AMI. As a result, the organization receives requests from a wide range of working residents, including educators, hospitality workers, retail and restaurant staff, and nonprofit employees. Warm Up the Winter, which launched on Jan. 15, will culminate in a March 5 benefit concert at Barrington Hall in Great Barrington. This year’s event, themed “The Family That Plays Together ROCKS!” includes musical guest Wanda Houston, along with Luke and Brian Franco, Carrie Wilson & Son, Bill Chapman Trio, Jackson Whalan and Family, Jackson DuCharme, and Gina Coleman and Diego Mong. Additional special guests will be announced. Contributions can be made at constructberkshires.org, by calling (413) 528-1985, or by check payable to Construct, 316A State Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230.

 

Bradley Caps Terminal Expansion with Unveiling of New Concourse

WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) announced that Bradley International Airport (BDL) has reached a major milestone as part of the ongoing terminal expansion that has been underway since March 2023. The final element of construction, a new concourse, is now complete, with passengers slated to begin using it in the coming weeks. The concourse is an extension of the existing Terminal A and part of an 80,000-square-foot facility directly behind the Sheraton Hotel. The new concourse includes three additional airline gates for passengers; comfortable and varied seating options with ample access to integrated power; new dining and retail options; new modern restroom facilities with privacy stalls, occupancy sensors, luggage storage, and contemporary vanities; an additional family restroom; self-sanitizing diaper changing stations; and BDL’s second nursing room for mothers. Just below the new concourse, and also part of the new 80,000-square-foot facility, is Bradley’s new inline baggage screening system, which opened in fall 2025 and houses the airport’s explosive detection machines. A mile-long conveyor belt carries the estimated 2 million checked bags the airport screens annually from the airline ticket counters directly to the new screening facility. The explosive detection machines, once located in the airport lobby, have since been removed, freeing up ticket counter space for existing and potential new airlines. Two new exit corridors were added to the east and west sides of the main terminal, adjacent to each of the two concourses, which opened in 2025. In other airport news, Breeze Airways will soon launch twice-weekly, non-stop service between Bradley and Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) in Louisville, Ky., and United Airlines will soon launch daily, non-stop service between Bradley and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston.

 

MountainOne Distributes $363,200 During Second Half of 2025

NORTH ADAMS —  MountainOne announced that, during the third and fourth quarters of 2025, it distributed $363,200  in donations and sponsorships to not-for-profit organizations across the Berkshires, Pioneer Valley, and South Shore. MountainOne also continued its support of key cultural and educational institutions within the Berkshires, including commitments to MASS MoCA and the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. These contributions align with broader, multi-year capital campaign efforts and reflect MountainOne’s long-term investment in regional vitality. These ongoing partnerships build on prior years of support and help sustain institutions that play a critical role in the identity, economy, and future of the region.

 

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Unveils Employee Volunteer Program

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) announced the launch of Co-op ROOTS, a new employee volunteer program designed to reflect the bank’s deep commitment to the communities it serves. With the newly unveiled program, employees are given the opportunity to volunteer with partner organizations across Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties. Along with committed community service hours, the program also highlights Co-op Acts of Kindness, an outreach initiative giving GCB employees the opportunity to sponsor acts of kindness in the community, such as purchasing supplies for a local dog shelter or sending valentines to a senior community. Each year, the bank will award one employee with the COOP-teer Volunteer of the Year Award, and will provide employees with volunteer shirts displaying GCB’s “Rooted in Community” slogan.

 

Easthampton Skatepark Initiative Seeks Donations

EASTHAMPTON — The Easthampton Skatepark Initiative, a group of volunteer parents and skateboarders, is seeking donations to raise the final $85,000 needed to construct a new, all-wheels skatepark in Easthampton. Since 2019, the initiative has worked closely with city officials to identify a suitable location and secure funding for a new skatepark to replace the David MacDonald Memorial Skatepark, which was dismantled in 2004. The skatepark project is an official city of Easthampton initiative in partnership with the Parks and Recreation Department and Commission. In September 2024, the final location was selected at Millside Park, behind the basketball court. Since then, the project has secured major public funding, including $250,000 from the city’s Community Preservation Act and a $425,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities program. The initiative has already received financial support and commitments from Monadnock Community Investments, Canon Real Estate, Easthampton Skate Club, and Greenfield Savings Bank. Additional donations can be made online through the Easthampton Skatepark Initiative’s fiscal sponsor, Flywheel Community Arts Inc., a local nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible. To learn more or to donate, visit easthamptonskatepark.com.

 

FirstLight Expands Partnership with Energy New England

BURLINGTON — FirstLight, a leading clean power producer, developer, and energy storage company, announced the expansion of the company’s landmark municipal utility power purchase agreement (PPA) with Energy New England (ENE). As part of the agreement, 21 New England municipal public power entities — including, locally, Westfield Gas & Electric — have agreed to purchase 197 gigawatt hours per year of clean, local, cost-competitive hydropower produced by two of FirstLight’s hydroelectric facilities in Massachusetts. The original PPA between FirstLight and ENE’s customer group was executed in 2020, and at the time, it represented one of the largest municipal electric department purchases of clean energy in New England history. The expanded PPA will extend through 2040 and will provide enough energy to support the year-round power demands of approximately 20,000 homes in the participating communities per year for the duration of the deal, while allowing the municipal electric departments to keep costs low for ratepayers. All ENE member municipalities already meet Massachusetts’ requirement for municipal utilities to obtain 50% of their power supply from carbon-free sources by 2030, well ahead of the mandated deadline.

 

Animal Aura Yoga Opens at Hampshire Mall

HADLEY — Animal Aura Yoga celebrated its opening at the Hampshire Mall in Hadley with a ribbon cutting ceremony, hosted in partnership with the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, on Feb. 4. Animal Aura Yoga offers a mix of classes, from Puppies & Yoga to Snuggle Sessions and more, providing a wellness experience that blends gentle yoga, mindful movement, and dedicated puppy snuggle time to support mental health, stress relief, and joy. The studio’s sessions also help young puppies build confidence and develop positive socialization skills in a calm environment, creating a win-win for both people and pups. The studio hosts public classes and private events, including puppy yoga, guided sessions, and puppy power breaks and snuggle therapy sessions. It also provides custom offerings for birthday parties, corporate team building events, college groups and sports teams, community groups, and other special occasions. Sessions can be tailored to focus on relaxation, connection, or simple feel-good fun, depending on the group.

 

AIC Expands Online EdD for Greater Personalization

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) relaunched its online doctor of education (EdD) program, expanding opportunities for personalization through leadership-focused specializations and flexible project options. Through a cohort-based learning model, students engage in collaborative, practice-driven coursework while developing advanced leadership, research, and critical thinking skills that can be applied directly to real-world contexts. The program offers multiple concentrations, enabling students to customize their degree to their interests and career goals. Specialization options include teaching and learning, educational leadership, higher education, and organizational leadership and development. Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles across K-12 education, higher education, nonprofit organizations, and corporate or community-based settings. In addition to selecting a concentration, online EdD students can choose between a dissertation or a culminating experience (capstone) for their final project. Designed with working professionals in mind, AIC’s online program can be completed in as little as two years through a focused curriculum delivered 100% online. A blend of asynchronous coursework and live sessions help students balance their education with professional and personal responsibilities, without the need for travel to campus. The online EdD combines applied research with reflective practice, along with faculty mentorship. Students are also paired with accountability partners, creating a collaborative community in which peers support each other through regular check-ins, goal setting, and dialogue.

 

Elms College Launches Master’s Program in Data Analytics & AI

CHICOPEE — Elms College announced the launch of its master’s degree in data analytics & AI, a dynamic new graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in rapidly growing fields such as data science, business analytics, and artificial intelligence. The program will begin in the fall of 2026 and will be fully online, allowing working professionals to pursue their advanced degree with flexibility and convenience. Graduates of the program will be prepared for in-demand roles, including data analyst, business analyst, data scientist, machine learning engineer, and AI engineer, among others, positions that are critical to today’s workforce. The program is ideal for recent graduates and professionals from various academic and professional backgrounds, including computer science, data science, biotechnology, business, healthcare, and other related fields. Applications for this fall are now being accepted. Prospective students can learn more at elms.edu.

 

Greylock Federal Marks $1 Million in Down Payment Assistance

PITTSFIELD — Greylock Federal Credit Union achieved the $1 million mark in down payment assistance in 2025, the impact of which totaled more than $1.2 million, benefiting 42 households in the Berkshires. Down payment assistance (DPA) is funded through partnerships with Federal Home Loan Bank’s Lift Up Grant, Equity Builder Grant, and Housing Our Workforce programs; MassHousing DPA, De Mayo Grant; and others. The funds are available to income-eligible buyers and can bolster a down payment or help cover closing costs. In 2025, 73% of Greylock mortgages were made to first-time homebuyers. Greylock leads the Berkshire County mortgage market with 23% market share, nearly double that of the next competitor. This market share dominance reinforces brand strength and the trust that credit union members and the Berkshire community have in Greylock.

 

Elan Charitable Giving Donates $250,000 to 25 Nonprofits

CHICOPEE — Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced it has been selected as one of the nonprofit partners in the Elan Charitable Giving Program’s 2026 celebration, marking five years of community support and impact. As part of this year’s initiative, Elan Credit Card delivered $250,000 in donations to 25 nonprofit organizations across the U.S., with each contribution made on behalf of a participating credit union or community bank partner. PNCU’s selected beneficiary for 2026 is Alianza Domestic Violence Services in Holyoke, which will receive a $10,000 donation through this effort. Since its launch in 2022, the Elan Charitable Giving program has provided more than $2.5 million to more than 175 nonprofits nationwide. In addition to financial support, Elan employees have contributed more than 300 volunteer hours, reinforcing the value of community engagement alongside partner institutions.

 

Pioneer Valley Financial Group Partners with Rachel’s Table

LUDLOW — Pioneer Valley Financial Group (PV Financial) has partnered with Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts, donating $10,000 in support of the organization’s mission to alleviate hunger and reduce food waste throughout the region. Rachel’s Table works to address food insecurity by rescuing surplus food and redistributing it to those in need, while also offering programs that educate and empower the community. Through food rescue, gleaning initiatives, gardening, and cooking education, the organization helps individuals and families build skills, resilience, and access to nutritious food. PV Financial is excited to be part of Rachel’s Table’s journey through both learning and hands-on volunteerism. The two organizations have already begun working closely together to identify meaningful ways to support the mission based on team members’ skills and interests. Early discussions have focused on the various locations Rachel’s Table serves and how PV Financial can best contribute to its ongoing efforts.

 

Holyoke Mall Releases Annual Community Report

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mall released its 2025 Community Report, highlighting the results of the center’s collaboration with Western Mass. nonprofit community organizations over the past year. In 2025, Holyoke Mall hosted more than 150 nonprofit events and partnered with many different local organizations that utilized the center for fundraising, awareness campaigns, and other events. In December, Holyoke Mall received the Melha Shriners Commitment to the Community Service Award, recognizing its strong partnership and dedication to community engagement, helping the Shriners connect with hundreds of supporters and raise substantial funds for outreach and philanthropic initiatives. Mall is pleased to work with nonprofit organizations seeking opportunities for tabling, fundraising and awareness campaigns, or larger-scale events in the common area. The center remains committed to being a valuable resource for the Western Mass. community. Holyoke Mall event space and community rooms are free for nonprofit use. Groups are asked to fill out and submit the required paperwork to be granted access. For more information, visit www.holyokemall.com/community.

 

American Eagle Launches Reimagined Member Website

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — American Eagle Financial Credit Union announced the launch of its newly redesigned website. This mobile-first, member-centric platform is designed to enhance access, elevate the brand experience, and serve as a digital branch for more than 165,000 members across Connecticut and Western Mass. Located at the same legacy URL, www.americaneagle.org, the new website officially went live on Jan. 20. Designed to function as a true digital branch, the platform provides intuitive navigation, streamlined access to key services, and content tailored to members’ financial goals and life stages. Whether they are opening an account, comparing products, or accessing educational resources, members can engage with American Eagle seamlessly across devices.

Key enhancements to the new website include a responsive, mobile-first design optimized for all devices; intuitive navigation with enhanced search and quick links; clear pathways supporting account opening and product engagement; and ADA-compliant functionality to ensure inclusive access. Built on Kentico CMS, the platform provides the flexibility and scalability needed to evolve alongside member expectations, enabling teams to update content efficiently and keep the digital experience current.

Incorporations

By
Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

The Centered Soul Initiative Inc., 2 South Bridge Dr., Agawam, MA 01001. Krystal Bariffe, 706 Nott St., Wethersfield, CT 06109. Centered soul initiative working to ensure equitable access to holistic wellness for all, especially those often overlooked in traditional care systems, including military members, healthcare workers, law enforcement professionals, and underserved communities, offering culturally affirming services such as birth and postpartum support, massage and bodywork, energy healing, and group wellness experiences.

BLANDFORD

Arts, Innovation, Research Inc., 36 North Blandford Road, Blandford, MA 01008. Benjamin Sloat, same. A Clark University program in partnership with MASS MoCA presenting a next-generation MFA visual arts learning laboratory.

CHICOPEE

OK 2 Pause Inc., 35 Savory Dr., Chicopee, MA 01020. Doreen Reyes, same. Provides holistic coaching, transformative education, and accessible wellness resources and services that compassionately support individuals, organizations, and communities navigating the effects of primary, secondary, and tertiary trauma.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Run DME Inc., 265 Benton Dr., Suite 106, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Alyssa Ayala, 13 Newell Pond Place, Greenfield, MA 01301. Medical supply sales and distribution.

FLORENCE

Aya Marketing Solutions Inc., 64 West Farms Road, Florence, MA 01062. Chaya Aronson, same. Digital marketing.

GREENFIELD

North County Western MA Youth Sports Ltd., 5 Sunrise Ave., Greenfield, MA 01301. William Pease Jr., same. Nonprofit organizations providing youth with opportunities to participate in organized sports activities.

HOLYOKE

Quick Trip Mini Mart Inc., 753 Dwight St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Khawaja Asghar, 46 Columba St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Grocery store.

HUNTINGTON

KSL Business Services Inc., 69 Worthington Road, Huntington, MA 01050. Karen Lucas, same. Provides business support services.

LONGMEADOW

Carabelli Dental, P.C., 52 Wilkin Dr., Longmeadow, MA 01105. Dan Thanh Linh Nguyen, same. General dentistry practice.

PITTSFIELD

Adaptive Real Estate Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Matt Calvano, same. Develops and provides software products and related services for construction businesses.

Barkat Legal, P.C., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Sana Barkat, same. Legal services.

Chabad of Williamstown, 450 South St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Menachem Mendel Volovik, same. Religious, charitable, and educational corporation whose primary purpose is to teach, promote, educate, and facilitate the practice of the Jewish religion and Jewish community life, according to the principles of Chabad Lubavitch.

Heterotaxy Connection Corp., 82 Wendell Ave. Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Necia Sabin, 2882 East Ruby Valley Dr., Eagle Mountain, UT 84005. Nonprofit organization committed to supporting, educating, and empowering families affected by heterotaxy syndrome.

Lost Worlds Institute Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Siddharth Chopra, same. Committed to preserving endangered languages and reviving extinct ones by combining scholarly insight with youth-led initiatives.

Motormia Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Isaac Bushnik, same. Technology services and development.

Project Drawdown Corp., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Stephan Nicoleau, same. Scientific research and education.

Sensible Medical Innovations Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. John Dechellis, same. Medical devices.

Titan Solutions Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Stephen St. Pierre, same. Business management and consulting services.

SOUTH HADLEY

AAC Operations Inc., 4 White Brook Lane, South Hadley, MA 01075. Abdul Azeem Chaudhry, same. Management consulting.

SPRINGFIELD

Dream Auto Convenience Inc., 484 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01109. Saleem Ali, 188 Clearwater Circle, Ludlow, MA 01056. Used car dealership, including sales, repair, and retail convenience store.

Henriquez Global Trading Inc., 289 Belmont Ave., Springfield, MA 01108. Wanda Henriquez, same. Resale shop.

No Signal Inc., 1500 Main St., Springfield, MA 01115. Jonathan Abram, same. Retail sales.

Raising Royalty Mass Inc., 43 Ferris St., Springfield, MA 01151. Renee Stewart Bates, same. Charitable organization that assists and equips children and families with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate life’s challenges with grace, resilience, and purpose.

Saunders Mechanical Insulation Inc., 3 Littleton St., Springfield, MA 01104. Larinso Saunders, same. Construction, mechanical insulation, and fireproofing.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

2174 MA West Inc., 990 Piper Road, West Springfield, MA 01089. Payal Ritesh Patel, same. Beauty salon.

Tashtan Transportation Inc., 37 York St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Ramiz Badirov, same. Transportation.

WILBRAHAM

New England 8 Inc., 31 Ruth Dr., Wilbraham, MA 01095. Johnny Ahern, 121 Silver Leaf Way, Apt. 24, Marlboro, MA 01752. Unites and combines the resources of the eight Rotary districts of New England and Southern Quebec to promote and support the Rotary International clubs of said districts and their mission of community and global service.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2026.

BELCHERTOWN

The Cruise Connection
8 Lawrence Road
Richard Thibodeau

Dupuis Farm
734 George Hannum St.
Robert Dupuis

Dynamic Do’s
111 Main St.
Annamarie Deich

Eclipz Salon
3 Stadler St., Unit C4
Carolyn O’Donnell

Everett Avenue Condominiums
21 Everett Ave.
James Moran, Linda Coffey

First Steps ABA
39 Greenwich Hill
Heather Jablonski

JL Construction
44 Mercier Dr.
Jason Lafleur

Leclerc & Son Forestry & Logging
91 Rockrimmon Road
Roland Leclerc

Lifelore Therapy Services
46 Daniel Square
Anna Zamarron

Oak and Ash Farm
243 Allen St.
Lindsey Baird, Matthew Baird

Peter Christian Music Publishing
161 Federal St., #19
Pierre Bertrand, Theresa Bertrand

Solid Ground Farm
33 Poole Road
Michael Byrne

Sue Fay’s Full Service Family Salon
44 Stebbins St.
Suzette Fay

NORTHAMPTON

Bear Crossing Flower Farm
44 North Farms Road
Anne Geller

Context Capital Asset Management LLC
123 South St., #2
Melissa Frydlo

ET-MC Group
66 Massasoit St.
Edwin McConnell

GerryJacob
52 Main St., #4
Spring Furlow

Hampshire Forensic Consulting
6-8 Crafts Ave., Suite 2R
Michael Brezsnyak

Haven Body Arts
108 Main St.
Penelope Silverstein

The Houle School
251 Pleasant St., Apt. 7A
Erika Houle

Leonora Research
37 Kensington Ave.
Lenore Palladino

Northampton Athletic Club
306 King St.
Perry Messer, Judy Messer

Northampton Tire and Auto Service
182 King St.
Peter Kearing

Secure Bonds Counseling
16 Center St., Suite 426
Lauren Hollander

WESTFIELD

Above the Fold Apparel
19 Raymond Circle
Soymi Li Serrano

Ben’s Solution
13 Madison St.
Veniamin Misiruk

Collins Bookkeeping
110 Lockhouse Road
Jennifer Collins

Fabulous Finds and Collectibles
80 Plantation Circle
Lorna Mernill

Legacy Retention Group
67 Katharine St.
Datamerj Inc.

Oleg Igumnov Handy Man
16 Sheldon Ave.
Oleg Igumnov

Palmer Properties Landscaping
99 Southwick Road
Austin Palmer

Sarah’s Gluten Free Goods
230 Graville Road
Sarah Godfrey

Sears Mechanical Inc.
29 Parker Ave.
Sears Mechanical Inc.

Staples Cleaning Services
64 Whitaker Road
Juliana Morais

Techniq Support
200 Southwick Road, #27
Megan Gentile

Total Yard Snow & Tree Services
10 Columbia St., #2
Mikhail Burov

Western Mass Bolts FC
81 South Maple St.
Wesley Carter

Whip City Handyman LLC
33 Sunrise Ter.
Evan Charter

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

Bergmann, Tyler J.
Cote, Staci M.
320 Bemis Road
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/07/2026

Booth, Jamie Marie
512 Grattan St., #3
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 01/13/2026

Bragg, Joshua R.
48 Florida Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/07/2026

Bruso, Peggy A.
159 West River St., Apt. 2
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 12/31/2025

Bundy, Bradley Dean
1 Hunter Ter.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Date: 01/07/2026

Daly, Michelle
193 Mohegan St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/06/2026

DiCenzo, Christine
17 Baver Dr.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Date: 12/31/2025

Eckert, Alice F.
101 Amherst St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/09/2026

Flynn, Kiley (Kimberly)
a/k/a McTaggart, Kimberly
Evergreen Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/14/2026

Gentile, Patricia A.
57 Ellsworth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/08/2026

Gotay, Victor
10 Washington St., Apt. D
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 12/31/2025

Guerro, Dakota
85 Allen St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/08/2026

Hubbard, Thomas A.
88 West St.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/07/2026

Kielbania, Jonathan P.
Kielbania, Virginia L.
75 White St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Date: 12/31/2025

Kolok, Kurtiss W.
12 Elmwood Ave.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/05/2026

Martinez, Rosa M.
60 Seymour Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 01/08/2026

Moore, James
Moore, Dawn A.
13 North Hampton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/12/2026

Morales, Ivelisse Marie
27 MIddlebrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/08/2026

Patterson, Nicole Marie
25 Eton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/02/2026

Tucker, Matthew
Barlow-Tucker, Cassandra
29 Forrest St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 13
Date: 01/06/2026

Vaughan, Mary M.
91 White Birch Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Date: 01/09/2026

Wright, Dolores G.
71 High St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Date: 12/31/2025

Real Estate Transactions

By
Real Estate

The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

ASHFIELD

151 Williamsburg Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Danae M. Olsen
Seller: Cranson, Richard D., (Estate)
Date: 01/14/26

BERNARDSTON

59 River St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Mountain Top TR
Seller: Jenne E. Lake
Date: 01/15/26

CHARLEMONT

165 Main St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Jake L. Orrall
Seller: John Dunphy
Date: 01/13/26

CONWAY

230 South Ashfield Road
Conway, MA 01096
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Andrew M. Habel
Seller: Matthew D. Ciaschini
Date: 01/05/26

DEERFIELD

17 Beaver Dr.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Sidney Chang
Seller: Dajun Pang
Date: 01/12/26

281 Greenfield Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $1,700,000
Buyer: Massachusetts Monarch LLC
Seller: Magic Wings Inc.
Date: 01/16/26

Mountain Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Rehno Lindeque
Seller: Peter A. Burakiewicz
Date: 01/09/26

GREENFIELD

24 Cypress St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $245,400
Buyer: Benegan2 LLC
Seller: Connelly RT
Date: 01/12/26

306 Davis St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $317,000
Buyer: Ness C. Bellini
Seller: Brenda J. Lively
Date: 01/05/26

109 Montague City Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Candace Sarpey
Seller: Joel Tognarelli
Date: 01/09/26

74 Petty Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Michael Benoit
Seller: Cynthia A. Milewski
Date: 01/16/26

MONTAGUE

5 Bridge St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Craig M. Nelson
Seller: Green River Collective LLC
Date: 01/08/26

12 Ferry Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $253,656
Buyer: Rmac TR
Seller: Joseph Markol
Date: 01/13/26

189 Turnpike Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Tyler D. Townsley
Seller: Collins, Bruce W., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

202 Turnpike Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Gary E. Cowan
Seller: Waryasz 3rd, Charles J., (Estate)
Date: 01/14/26

NORTHFIELD

41 Main St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Town Of Northfield
Seller: Sandri Realty Inc.
Date: 01/08/26

ORANGE

61-63 Congress St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Hidiamine J. Furtado
Seller: Wendy Wetherby
Date: 01/09/26

153 Dana Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Anahbel Upham
Seller: Zalac, Robert J., (Estate)
Date: 01/14/26

68 Daniel Shays Hwy.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Sapphire Management Corp.
Seller: West Mini Storage LLC
Date: 01/09/26

89 West Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $307,000
Buyer: Douglas J. Ross
Seller: Pioneer Valley Redevelopers LLC
Date: 01/05/26

SHUTESBURY

151 Leverett Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $179,900
Buyer: David B. Opie
Seller: Mark A. Wightman
Date: 01/07/26

36 Merrill Dr.
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Matalia Petruski-Ivleva
Seller: Michael S. Macdoland
Date: 01/14/26

359 Montague Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Siobhan M. Mei
Seller: Fontes FT
Date: 01/07/26

SUNDERLAND

110 Old Amherst Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $318,000
Buyer: Matthew McLaughlin
Seller: Ellen K. Brower-Gately
Date: 01/14/26

WHATELY

182 Chestnut Plain Road
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $670,000
Buyer: Freedom Hilll RT
Seller: Wilma Brooks FT
Date: 01/15/26

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

106 Cherry St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $373,000
Buyer: Eric J. Forish
Seller: Adam Howe
Date: 01/16/26

68 Peros Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Lillian Cruz
Seller: Jessica A. Garcia
Date: 01/14/26

1168 River Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Katlyn Welling
Seller: Robin R. Richey
Date: 01/06/26

24 Rowley St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Mustafa Calis
Seller: Recai Bayram
Date: 01/16/26

36-38 Rowley St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Mehmet Dogan
Seller: Angela Poon
Date: 01/09/26

99 Valley Brook Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Anatolii Vasylyshyn
Seller: Christine J. Nowacki
Date: 01/16/26

BLANDFORD

28 Blair Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Donald F. Roberts
Seller: Freedom Mortgage Corp.
Date: 01/14/26

10 Maple Lane
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Jake J. Morgan
Seller: Ryan J. Simmitt
Date: 01/16/26

BRIMFIELD

293 Brookfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Melissa Nuland
Seller: Carlos Talavera
Date: 01/13/26

19 Main St.
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Paul E. McCarthy
Seller: 19 Main Street Brimfield NT
Date: 01/05/26

CHICOPEE

16 Abbey St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $397,500
Buyer: Kash Reddy LLC
Seller: Bolden Riddle FT
Date: 01/13/26

41 Ames Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: 41 Ames Avenue LLC
Seller: Daviau & Robert Properties LLC
Date: 01/08/26

92 Archie St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Fidelino R. Perez
Seller: Franciscan Missionary Sisters
Date: 01/09/26

5 Campbell Place
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $398,000
Buyer: Brady Williams
Seller: Drew Nalewanski
Date: 01/12/26

18 Charpentier Blvd.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $294,000
Buyer: Kokoutse Sipotou
Seller: Kera Monts
Date: 01/14/26

36 Chateaugay St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $449,999
Buyer: Jacques J. Asani
Seller: Kmak LLC
Date: 01/13/26

39 Daley St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Robert E. Presidentps
Seller: Mark J. Galat
Date: 01/09/26

32 Debra Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Kelly A. Salvador-Macadam
Seller: AEM Property Investment LLC
Date: 01/12/26

127 Gelinas Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: R. & R. Home Improvement
Seller: Robidoux, Ernest J., (Estate)
Date: 01/13/26

561 Granby Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $177,600
Buyer: Lakeview Loan Service LLC
Seller: Mark Rosansky
Date: 01/13/26

451 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: County Road & Grattan St. Rl
Seller: Songo Realty LLC
Date: 01/08/26

861 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Emilia M. McGrail
Seller: Prime Flips LLC
Date: 01/12/26

62 Jennings St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Prince A. Taylor
Seller: Theodore J. Beauregard
Date: 01/08/26

37 Kennedy St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Drew Nalewanski
Seller: Dswc Realty LLC
Date: 01/15/26

91 Norman St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $407,000
Buyer: Michael S. Duval
Seller: Equity Trust Co.
Date: 01/07/26

97 Robak Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $331,000
Buyer: Brian Chamberlain
Seller: Kevin Konstant
Date: 01/16/26

61 Saint Jacques Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Halifax Capital LLC
Seller: Banister, Theresa Rose, (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

12 Stebbins St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Michael Dziedzic
Seller: Scott Family Properties LLC
Date: 01/15/26

32 Stockbridge St.
Chicopee, MA 01103
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Hunter J. Parks
Seller: Waycon Inc.
Date: 01/05/26

111 Thaddeus St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $248,000
Buyer: Jose O. Perez
Seller: Joan C. Bruso
Date: 01/13/26

EAST LONGMEADOW

201 Braeburn Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Steven A. Mazzariello
Seller: Robert A. Mazzariello
Date: 01/13/26

84 Brookhaven Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $494,900
Buyer: Adrian Syrowik
Seller: Jenna M. Serra
Date: 01/16/26

32 Chestnut St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $8,186,329
Buyer: Vantage East Longmeadow
Seller: Ccp Properties
Date: 01/08/26

19 Fairview St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Rachel E. Sager
Seller: Sarah E. Anderson
Date: 01/14/26

15 Fernwood Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Jennifer Stehman
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 01/15/26

Hampden Road, Lot F
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: E. David Wilson TR
Seller: Keith J. Fitzgerald
Date: 01/07/26

10 Kelsey St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $281,400
Buyer: Anna Price
Seller: Daniel J. Wilson
Date: 01/14/26

14 Sanford St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Cynthia L. Dziadzio
Seller: Kevin H. Beausoleil
Date: 01/15/26

30 Saugus Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Seamus P. McEvoy
Seller: Robert J. Roy
Date: 01/16/26

66 Smith Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Michelle Gonzalez
Seller: Kristin M. Lapointe
Date: 01/15/26

19 Westminster St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Gloria Santana
Seller: Susan E. Robertson
Date: 01/05/26

9 Windsor Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Alamgir Kabir
Seller: Belli Residence T-1991
Date: 01/06/26

HAMPDEN

12 Rose Circle
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Michael Sierra
Seller: JoeJoe Properties LLC
Date: 01/05/26

HOLLAND

7 Grove Heights Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Thomas J. McLaughlin
Seller: Michael S. Pearson
Date: 01/09/26

61 Sturbridge Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $356,000
Buyer: Jenna D. Johnson
Seller: Lisa Boudreau LLC
Date: 01/13/26

HOLYOKE

22 Anderson Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: David Roth
Seller: Luis Gonzalez-Quinones
Date: 01/13/26

78 Calumet Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Rory L. Strauss
Seller: Anna S. Foster
Date: 01/13/26

119 Central Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $479,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Neill
Seller: William T. Raleigh
Date: 01/09/26

103 Dupuis Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Todd T. Dineen
Seller: Dean C. Hudson
Date: 01/16/26

89 Jarvis Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Jeffrey S. Sorbo
Seller: Chi M. Wong
Date: 01/16/26

37 Laura Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Valarie Rafus
Seller: Matthew M. Bagg
Date: 01/08/26

103 Dupuis Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Todd T. Dineen
Seller: Dean C. Hudson
Date: 01/16/26

89 Jarvis Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Jeffrey S. Sorbo
Seller: Chi M. Wong
Date: 01/16/26

456 Maple St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,050,000
Buyer: Maple Arms LLC
Seller: 456 Maple Holyoke Mass. LLC
Date: 01/13/26

1921 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Roman Catholic Bishop
Seller: Charles W. Aurnhammer
Date: 01/12/26

93 Pine St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $212,000
Buyer: Templo Pentecostal Una Voz
Seller: Templo Pentecostal
Date: 01/12/26

405 Rock Valley Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Frank Pietrasiuk
Seller: D. S. Turner
Date: 01/15/26

13 Willow St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Ada O. Ortega
Seller: Milos, Dennis C., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

LONGMEADOW

33 Severn St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Lauren A. Nokes
Seller: John F. Benoit
Date: 01/16/26

373 Williams St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $416,000
Buyer: Ford FT
Seller: Lynwood LLC
Date: 01/09/26

LUDLOW

179 Cedar St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Zachary T. Dart
Seller: Marc-Lene Proeprties NT
Date: 01/15/26

19 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: David J. Fernandes
Seller: Carlos Teixeira
Date: 01/16/26

33 Grimard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Shelby M. Ponusky
Seller: Ushokoledi RT
Date: 01/07/26

58 Mariana Way
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Daniel Leclair
Seller: Modern Homes LLC
Date: 01/16/26

51 New Crest St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Konstant
Seller: David J. Fernandes
Date: 01/16/26

41 Orchard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Derek J. Chandonnet
Seller: Adelia M. Pedro
Date: 01/13/26

112 Paulding Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: William R. Ayers
Seller: Mary P. Dutra RET
Date: 01/06/26

34 Ridgeview Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Antonio F. Dacruz
Seller: Varandas, Maria C., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

Turning Leaf Road, Lot 104
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,900
Buyer: Hemlock Ridge LLC
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 01/08/26

Turning Leaf Road, Lot 105
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,900
Buyer: Hemlock Ridge LLC
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 01/08/26

433 Ventura St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $432,000
Buyer: Andrew Howard
Seller: 433 Ventura Street NT
Date: 01/15/26

MONSON

84 Bethany Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $299,250
Buyer: Senior Homebuyers LLC
Seller: Residential Asset 2006-Emx4
Date: 01/06/26

132 Bethany Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $8,500,000
Buyer: Massachusetts Electric Co.
Seller: One40 Bethany LLC
Date: 01/12/26

23 High St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Richard Ferguson
Seller: HUD
Date: 01/06/26

90 Palmer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Lord Country Club LLC
Seller: Everett L. Walker
Date: 01/06/26

MONTGOMERY

102 Carrington Road
Montgomery, MA 01050
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Jeffrey L. Morse
Seller: Morse FT
Date: 01/06/26

PALMER

60 Beech St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $539,500
Buyer: Christopher Dygon
Seller: William Peckham
Date: 01/09/26

3022 Hillside Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $439,900
Buyer: Stephen Perry
Seller: Matthew Sacchi
Date: 01/13/26

3121-3123 Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Tariq McDowell
Seller: Nidaa Al-Zubaidy
Date: 01/12/26

374 Rondeau St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Tilden, Michael J., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

SPRINGFIELD

22-24 Ainsworth St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $409,000
Buyer: Kevon R. Campbell
Seller: Ana M. Perez
Date: 01/16/26

27-29 Appleton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: 21-23 Biltmore LLC
Seller: Dan Le
Date: 01/12/26

20 Battery St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Carlos A. Lopez
Seller: James M. McGrath
Date: 01/09/26

215 Bicentennial Hwy.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $7,276,736
Buyer: Vantage Springfield Realty LLC
Seller: Ccp Springfield Business TR
Date: 01/07/26

43 Birchland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Shane Dearborn
Seller: Richard Ortiz
Date: 01/06/26

60 Blake St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Hong T. Nguyen
Seller: Jo E. Parker
Date: 01/12/26

1809-1821 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Jdz Realty LLC
Seller: Devony M. Lea
Date: 01/16/26

744 Bradley Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Richton & Wynne LLC
Seller: Diane H. Stone
Date: 01/06/26

12 Brickett St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Maribel C. Cartagena
Seller: R. & R. Home Improvement
Date: 01/09/26

723-725 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Jia Lu
Seller: Laura Zapata
Date: 01/08/26

12-14 Carver St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Real Estate Investors Northeast LLC
Seller: Leonel Perez
Date: 01/13/26

482 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Camilo Homes LLC
Seller: Onyx Investments LLC
Date: 01/07/26

43 Colonial Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Fefabo Management LLC
Seller: Noreen Finn
Date: 01/05/26

20 Conklin St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Louise Jones
Date: 01/08/26

455 Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Manufacturers Group LLC
Seller: Edward L. Young
Date: 01/05/26

14 Daviston St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Helen T. Nguyen
Seller: Hoa M. Nguyen
Date: 01/07/26

234 Draper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Majestic Partners LLC
Seller: Naples Home Buyers TR
Date: 01/09/26

83 Druid Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: West Jam Man LLC
Seller: Sher-Nirenstein, Ruth, (Estate)
Date: 01/15/26

16-18 Eddywood St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $437,000
Buyer: Paul Reynolds
Seller: CM Rental Properties LLC
Date: 01/14/26

246 El Paso St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Alexis Ortiz
Seller: Sherri Marini
Date: 01/09/26

177 Flint St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Senior Homebuyers LLC
Seller: Margo Burt
Date: 01/08/26

137-139 Fountain St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Tavernier Investments LLC
Seller: Seajay Group LLC
Date: 01/05/26

24 Francis St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $243,000
Buyer: Brodie G. Fazio
Seller: Mary I. Welch
Date: 01/14/26

43 Gillette Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Nina Fazio
Seller: Beaulieu, Betsy H., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

331 Grand Valley Road
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Justin Oski
Seller: Kenneth Deyo
Date: 01/15/26

401 Grayson Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $451,000
Buyer: Ruby Dillon
Seller: Theres, Shirley A., (Estate)
Date: 01/06/26

254 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Oanh Ho
Seller: Carly R. Charbonneau
Date: 01/16/26

320 Island Pond Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Panther Development LLC
Seller: Michael K. Dagger
Date: 01/08/26

24-26 Jenness St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Jilleen Pearson
Seller: Kimberly Rios
Date: 01/09/26

35 Juniper Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: April Arroyo
Seller: Valentina Laporte
Date: 01/08/26

41 Kerry Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Samalid M. Martinez
Seller: Lori A. Lagasse
Date: 01/09/26

36 Kulig St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Meghan A. Lynch
Seller: Constance A. Carnevale
Date: 01/09/26

73 Lebanon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Jean C. Hernandez
Seller: Cindy L. Thomas
Date: 01/13/26

30 Lively Lane
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Joeselin S. Morales
Seller: Czassistant Presidentlick
Date: 01/16/26

1654-1660 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $725,000
Buyer: Zmain Street Holdings LLC
Seller: Omnipoint Technology
Date: 01/16/26

1670 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $725,000
Buyer: Zmain Street LLC
Seller: Omnipoint Technology
Date: 01/16/26

2942-2946 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $1,125,000
Buyer: RK On Main Street LLC
Seller: Isla Associates I LLC
Date: 01/16/26

71-73 Mayfair Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Julissa Lantigua
Seller: Julia Frias
Date: 01/13/26

195 Mildred Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Luis M. Cordero
Seller: Carol A. Bowler
Date: 01/12/26

331 Newhouse St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Eliezer A. Claudio-Adorno
Seller: Sandra R. Shafer
Date: 01/05/26

3 Norfolk St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $332,000
Buyer: Terence McHugh
Seller: Numeri Capital Investors LLC
Date: 01/16/26

255 Norfolk St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Springfield College
Seller: Joshua B. Cotto-Colon
Date: 01/05/26

68-70 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Sonia Colon
Seller: Judith A. Ford
Date: 01/14/26

10 Oakdale St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Campagnari Construction LLC
Seller: David Decorie
Date: 01/12/26

97 Oklahoma St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $207,000
Buyer: Juan J. Duchi
Seller: Lorge, William J., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/26

28 Old Lane Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Christopher Nascembeni
Seller: Richard W. O’Leary
Date: 01/09/26

74 Oregon St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Keshawn Dodds
Seller: Justin J. King
Date: 01/16/26

27 Parallel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Maria S. Gonzalez
Date: 01/07/26

97 Parallel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Vilmarys O. Nieves
Seller: 194 Holdings LLC
Date: 01/15/26

1680 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Roberto Cruz
Seller: Michael H. Sierra
Date: 01/05/26

1815 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $327,770
Buyer: Jeannette Rivera
Seller: Luis A. Rivera
Date: 01/07/26

98 Pine Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Sarah A. Royston
Seller: Christine Kimball
Date: 01/07/26

6 Portland St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $1,125,000
Buyer: RK On Main Street LLC
Seller: Isla Associates I LLC
Date: 01/16/26

439 Riverside Road
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Tiffany Bermudez
Seller: Zoila Rosario
Date: 01/16/26

193 Roy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $288,000
Buyer: Maria Gonzalez
Seller: Lynn A. Hasty
Date: 01/07/26

1454 South Branch Pkwy.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Yen H. Le
Seller: Steven N. Omartian
Date: 01/09/26

54 Shady Brook Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Courtney Merkman
Seller: Woodtke FT
Date: 01/07/26

35 Spence St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Wilbraham Builders Inc.
Seller: Carter, Henry L., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

758-760 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Next Level Investors LLC
Seller: North Adams Realty LLC
Date: 01/16/26

294 Tremont St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Kmak LLC
Seller: Booker, Kay F., (Estate)
Date: 01/12/26

22-24 Westminster St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $364,000
Buyer: Jane Vernalia
Seller: Vera Rybakova
Date: 01/16/26

93 Wilmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Medgine Lindor
Seller: Lan-Oak Realty LLC
Date: 01/12/26

48 Winter St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Daniel V. Dineen
Seller: JB Auto Sales LLC
Date: 01/15/26

10 Woodcrest Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Phaneth Son
Seller: Cig2 LLC
Date: 01/14/26

22 Woodland Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Juan D. Rios
Seller: Rachele Bellantonio
Date: 01/16/26

SOUTHWICK

98 Mort Vining Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Mary L. Hollander
Seller: Katrina Baker
Date: 01/09/26

8 North Longyard Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $244,800
Buyer: Jane Milanczuk
Seller: Jennifer D. Belden
Date: 01/09/26

Silvergrass Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Hamelin Framing Inc.
Seller: Fiore Realty Holdings LLC
Date: 01/09/26

64 Tannery Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Jaydub LLC
Seller: S. A. Mastroianni FT
Date: 01/08/26

TOLLAND

112 Brook Lane
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Berkshire Lake Retreat LLC
Seller: Susan Chan
Date: 01/16/26

WALES

45 Hollow Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Seth A. Tebo
Seller: Valle, Lewis W., (Estate)
Date: 01/13/26

WEST SPRINGFIELD

97 Circuit Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: AV Prime LLC
Seller: Lachenauer LLC
Date: 01/12/26

160 East Gooseberry Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Cynthia D. Miller
Seller: Cynthia D. Miller
Date: 01/09/26

42 Prospect Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $8,186,329
Buyer: Vantage West Springfield Realty
Seller: Ccp Properties Business TR
Date: 01/08/26

115 Wayside Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: OM Real Estate Holdings LLC
Seller: AAA Northeast
Date: 01/15/26

180 Wolcott Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Kelly N. Davis
Seller: Jessie M. Thompson
Date: 01/15/26

WESTFIELD

163 Barbara St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $402,125
Buyer: Martin C. Clark
Seller: Metcalf, Karen L., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/26

15 Bates St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Zid S. Al Nasar
Seller: Extremely Clean
Date: 01/16/26

10 Day Lily Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $758,000
Buyer: Sabrina D. Bergeron
Seller: Gwilym A. Jones
Date: 01/08/26

10 Hanover St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Src Property Investors LLC
Seller: William M. Adamczyk
Date: 01/16/26

12 Hanover St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Src Property Investors LLC
Seller: William M. Adamczyk
Date: 01/16/26

40 Janis Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Emanuel I. Sardinha
Seller: Seth D. Sullivan
Date: 01/06/26

16 Locust St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Paul T. Morey
Seller: Flipping Best LLC
Date: 01/14/26

21 Mather St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: David Moquin
Seller: Al Pranka
Date: 01/14/26

226 Notre Dame St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Lillian Lawson
Seller: William F. Barry
Date: 01/09/26

28 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Dominique Serrano
Seller: Thomas D. Campbell
Date: 01/16/26

265 Prospect St., Ext.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Max J. Miller
Seller: Michael J. Miller
Date: 01/15/26

2 Saint Paul St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Src Property Investors LLC
Seller: William M. Adamczyk
Date: 01/16/26

1037 Shaker Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Kaitlyn Casale
Seller: Theordore Burrell
Date: 01/07/26

7 Sibley Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Round 2 LLC
Seller: Timothy K. Derrig
Date: 01/08/26

28 Union St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $507,500
Buyer: Denis Mocanu
Seller: Gennadiy A. Lisitsin
Date: 01/07/26

99 Woodmont St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Shannon Purdy
Seller: April M. O’Dell
Date: 01/08/26

WILBRAHAM

28 Decorie Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Robert A. Zeibig
Seller: Jeffrey L. Jones
Date: 01/15/26

17 Peak Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $2,045,000
Buyer: Danny Z. Serra
Seller: Lynne A. Kleeberg
Date: 01/06/26

1028 Tinkham Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Ana Perez
Seller: Morrison, Judith A., (Estate)
Date: 01/16/26

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

161 Chestnut St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $760,000
Buyer: Shree Chandermouli Enterprises LLC
Seller: YG Chestnut 161 LLC
Date: 01/09/26

66 Longmeadow Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Paul J. Gearan
Seller: Luke Zbylut
Date: 01/12/26

622 Main St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $1,300,000
Buyer: Krupalu LLC
Seller: Hilda Grnbaum RET
Date: 01/07/26

65 North Prospect St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $867,000
Buyer: North Prospect LLC
Seller: Howard T. Ewert
Date: 01/15/26

324 Pomeroy Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $835,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Doker
Seller: Cynthia L. McHale
Date: 01/06/26

 

South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Tyler Lazarz
Seller: Niles A. Gold
Date: 01/15/26

57 Tanglewood Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Alexis S. Connolly
Seller: Richard B. Spurgin
Date: 01/15/26

70 University Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $10,710,250
Buyer: We Drive 70 LLC
Seller: 70 University Dr. LLC
Date: 01/15/26

BELCHERTOWN

17 Bay Path Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $133,500
Buyer: Cheri A. Close
Seller: Kenneth R. Close
Date: 01/16/26

47 Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: 2 Tree Field LLC
Seller: John F. Ahern 2021 TR
Date: 01/09/26

81 Old Amherst Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $677,000
Buyer: OA Real Estate Holdings LLC
Seller: Tall Palms Capital LLC
Date: 01/07/26

82 Sheffield Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $579,000
Buyer: Emily Johnson
Seller: Kevin Grissom
Date: 01/13/26

28 Sycamore Circle
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $697,400
Buyer: Mary J. Heaner Living TR
Seller: Gloria J. Martinez
Date: 01/12/26

255 West St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Amanda Zani
Seller: Ronald J. Etreault
Date: 01/16/26

EASTHAMPTON

16 Bayberry Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $735,000
Buyer: Duara Caplan FT
Seller: James D. Molitoris
Date: 01/06/26

59 Campbell Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: David Ferland
Seller: Marni M. Giss
Date: 01/09/26

78 Holyoke St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Leslie Walter
Seller: Thomas J. Benson
Date: 01/16/26

108 Parsons St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $399,000
Buyer: Amy L. Saletnik
Seller: Karen A. Adamski
Date: 01/06/26

GRANBY

5 Country View Lane
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $502,000
Buyer: Joseph Carlson
Seller: Muhammad O. Chaudhry
Date: 01/15/26

13 Karen Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Cory A. Shepherd
Seller: Guy C. Demers
Date: 01/14/26

23 Pinebrook Circle
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Kraig J. Burke
Seller: Powers Sr., Edward J., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

4 Porter St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $912,000
Buyer: Matthew D. Diguglielmo
Seller: Paul J. Mason
Date: 01/16/26

HADLEY

150 East St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $699,000
Buyer: Rachael B. Goren
Seller: Isman-Hollister Real Estate
Date: 01/09/26

379 River Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $374,900
Buyer: Dixie D. Schroeder
Seller: G&B Realty Partners LLC
Date: 01/09/26

HATFIELD

67 Bridge St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Shea
Seller: Roger A. Guzowski
Date: 01/15/26

Depot Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Ian Lauder
Seller: Stephen J. Herbert
Date: 01/13/26

HUNTINGTON

105 Norwich Lake
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $222,000
Buyer: McKenna Kelly
Seller: Charles F. Gant 2000 RET
Date: 01/14/26

NORTHAMPTON

51 East St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: William R. Herman
Seller: Dmytryk, Florence V., (Estate)
Date: 01/09/26

481 Kennedy Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $682,000
Buyer: Michael A. Gillette
Seller: Mary A. Moriarty
Date: 01/12/26

49 Kensington Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $875,000
Buyer: Ellen Simon
Seller: Diana W. Larkin
Date: 01/16/26

187 Locust St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Maye LLC
Seller: Michael G. George
Date: 01/06/26

68 Masonic St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Abid Assad
Seller: Lilia R. Olpindo
Date: 01/06/26

67 Old South St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $945,000
Buyer: Capital RT
Seller: Elizabeth Hynes
Date: 01/15/26

321 Riverside Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Victoria Patnaude
Seller: Northeast Asset Mgmt. LLC
Date: 01/15/26

76 Vernon St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Sam Standing
Seller: William B. Buford
Date: 01/06/26

SOUTHAMPTON

100 Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $614,250
Buyer: Cassie M. Gaddis
Seller: Elizabeth M. Martin
Date: 01/05/26

301 Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Martin
Seller: Richard Dahdah
Date: 01/05/26

SOUTH HADLEY

27 Fulton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: 27 Fulton St. LLC
Seller: Town Of South Hadley
Date: 01/16/26

5 Karen Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Savuth Ok
Seller: Sarah D. Fisher
Date: 01/13/26

118 Willimansett St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Wayne E. Walton
Seller: Ryan M. Kobus
Date: 01/13/26

35 Yale St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $348,000
Buyer: Kerry J. Kelley
Seller: Sherry M. Sawyer
Date: 01/14/26

SOUTHAMPTON

72 Glendale Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Debra Giovannetti
Seller: 72 Glendale Road TR

17 Maple St.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: 17 Maple St. Realty NT
Seller: Sara N. Munro
Date: 01/14/26

WARE

1 Anna St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Steven Killmer
Seller: Allen C. Edwards
Date: 01/06/26

105 Church St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Matthew J. O’Brien
Seller: Gevork Anderyassian
Date: 01/13/26

7 Dugan Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $196,350
Buyer: Yellowbrick Property LLC
Seller: Edwin M. Krol
Date: 01/09/26

48 Eddy St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Azusa RT
Seller: Dana J. Bryant
Date: 01/06/26

46 Horseshoe Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Scot Glenson
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 01/16/26

12 Malboeuf Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $492,450
Buyer: Norma G. Roach
Seller: James E. Taylor
Date: 01/05/26

82 Monson Turnpike Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Hunter M. Nicoson
Seller: Kyle J. Ragno
Date: 01/09/26

WESTHAMPTON

178 Northwest Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Brian M. Chmura
Seller: Vito J. Perrone
Date: 01/05/26

WILLIAMSBURG

6 Maple St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $131,000
Buyer: Jennifer A. Hansell
Seller: Jennifer A. Hansell
Date: 01/15/26

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of January 2026.

CHICOPEE

GMS Realty LLP
33 Haynes Circle
$2,500 — Modify existing fire alarm system by installing two new horn strobes and two pull stations

Slosek Real Estate Holdings LLC
170 Springfield St.
$2,500 — Sheetrock kitchen and hang cabinets

EASTHAMPTON

Wemelco Development LLC
19 Wemelco Way
$63,000 — Insulation

LEE

Berkshire Corporate Realty LLC
480 Pleasant St.
$188,906 — Alteration of tenant space, including construction of three vestibules on first floor and installation of two makeup air units

NORTHAMPTON

King Auto Body Inc.
141 King St.
$3,670 — Illuminated wall sign for Hampshire Cardiovascular Associates

Maye LLC
187 Locust St.
$19,999 — Roofing

Maye LLC
187 Locust St.
$12,000 — Alterations, repairs, and insulation

Om Shiv Gauri Inc.
81 Maple St.
N/A — Sign on front wall

Om Shiv Gauri Inc.
81 Maple St.
N/A — Sign on side wall

Smith College
10 Elm St.
$100,000 — Repairs due to water damage

Smith College
84 Elm St.
$128,800 — Interior renovation to second and third floors of Drew Hall

Suher Properties LLC
50 Main St.
$11,500 — Install basement shorting for sidewalk area

Tigre Opportunity Fund QOB LLC
125 Main St.
$24,450 — New ADA-compliant bathroom

Trident Realty Corp.
76 Main St.
$64,500 — Renovations and alterations to fourth floor

PITTSFIELD

Berkshire Medical Center Inc.
165 Tor Court
$70,000 — Replace antennas and upgrade equipment at existing wireless facility

City of Pittsfield
105 Wahconah St.
$280,000 — Install temporary ice skating rink

Ditore, Wayne
526 East St.
$15,000 — Roofing

Elman Pittsfield Associates LLC
10 Conte Dr.
$8,400 — Remove 25 hose valves fed off existing wet sprinkler system

SABIC
55 Merrill Road
$92,000 — Construct new meeting room within existing factory floor

SABIC
55 Merrill Road
$35,000 — Remove and replace ceiling in building lobby

Journalist Gayle King to Keynote Bay Path’s Women’s Leadership Conference

By
Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University announced that award-winning journalist Gayle King will serve as the keynote speaker at the 29th annual Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC), taking place at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield on Thursday, April 2.

Throughout its history, the WLC has brought more than 52,000 attendees from the region to Springfield for a day of professional development and insightful conversation. Past conferences have featured speakers such as Jane Fonda, Maya Angelou, Robin Roberts, Hoda Kotb, and Barbara Corcoran.

“Our goal is always to provide attendees with a combination of great inspiration and practical tactics they can apply at work, in their communities, and beyond,” conference co-chair Karen Woods said. “With Gayle King, we continue our tradition of featuring extraordinary women who can speak to the drive, creativity, and confidence behind remarkable careers. So many of us remember Gayle King from her days anchoring the news at WFSB in Hartford, so welcoming her to the WLC feels like both a homecoming and a celebration of her continued influence.”

Since joining CBS News in 2011, King has interviewed world leaders, political figures, and cultural icons, ranging from Barack Obama to Billie Eilish to Elon Musk. Her work exploring social issues, politics, pop culture, history, and race has earned her three Emmy Awards, induction into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame (2018), and inclusion on TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People (2019).

“We always start the day with a jolt, and this year, our morning speaker is Juliet Funt,” Woods said. “She’s dynamic and compelling, and she speaks a lot about distinguishing productivity from busyness, which is something we can all relate to.”

The WLC will also feature lunchtime speaker Michelle Poler, an entrepreneur and brand strategist whose motivational philosophy, Hello Fears, has inspired thousands to step outside their comfort zones and unlock their full potential. She has presented to organizations including TEDx, Google, Facebook, Wells Fargo, ESPN, P&G, and Microsoft.

Breakout sessions throughout the day are led by top business experts and coaches. Tamilla Triantoro, associate professor at Quinnipiac University, will examine the impact of artificial intelligence on leadership, helping leaders to deploy AI responsibly. She has been featured in BBC, Forbes, and Fast Company. Melissa Majors, a business advisor and coach, will lead a session that draws on her leadership experience to address the challenges of modern work, such as burnout, disconnection, groupthink, and more.

Additional breakout speakers include Erin Stafford, who will share lessons on maintaining balance through the lens of a self-described “recovering Type A overachiever,” and Sheree Cain-Jones, who will draw on her lived experiences as a teen mother, adult college student, and TEDx coach to offer strategies for rising above perceived limitations.

Click here for more information on the conference, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket sales.

Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Board President

By
Daily News

Taylor Robbins

NORTHAMPTON — The Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) board of directors announced the election of Taylor Robbins as its new board president. Robbins brings extensive business experience and team leadership, as well as a rich history with the GNCC and a deep commitment to its mission.

Robbins previously served on the chamber’s ambassador committee, nominating committee, and annual meeting committee. Both Jennifer Ewers, financial advisor at Edward Jones Investments, and Doug Gilbert, vice president, commercial team leader at Florence Bank, will continue their roles as the board’s vice president and treasurer, respectively.

Robbins is vice president, business banking relationship manager at M&T Bank, where she supports business owners through business lending and deposit solutions. Previously, she was business relationship manager at UMassFive College Federal Credit Union, where she maintained a loan portfolio of more than 500 businesses in the community.

“Having organized several record-breaking ARRIVE@5 events, and being the chair of the GNCC’s annual meeting committee for the past two years, I’ve seen firsthand the strength and collaboration that define the Greater Northampton Chamber and its investors,” Robbins said. “I am honored to serve alongside a group of highly engaged and forward-thinking board members, and I look forward to giving back to the community in this new role as we build on the momentum that distinguishes the GNCC as a leading chamber.”

Vince Jackson, the chamber’s executive director, added that “we are fortunate to have such a dedicated and enthusiastic leader at such a critical time as we look to grow through innovative programming and transformative changes. Taylor has a deep familiarity with GNCC’s goals and a meaningful track record of contribution, and this new role is a natural next step in our continuing partnership.”

Columbia Climate Scientist to Explore Faith and Environmentalism at MCLA

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will welcome Alexander de Sherbinin, director and senior research scientist at Columbia Climate School’s Center for Integrated Earth System Information (CIESIN), as part of its Green Living Seminar Series on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 5:30 p.m.

He will present “How Religion Influences Our Relationship with the Environment,” examining the complex connections between spiritual beliefs and environmental stewardship. The talk will explore how different faith traditions shape attitudes toward nature, conservation, and climate action.

A geographer whose research focuses on climate-related mobility, climate vulnerability mapping, and population-environment interactions, de Sherbinin manages the NASA Socioeconomic Data and Applications Center (SEDAC) and leads the UN Global Centre for Climate Mobility’s Global Knowledge Hub. His work integrates geospatial data to address critical questions about human dimensions of climate change. He holds a PhD in geo-information science and Earth observation from the University of Twente in the Netherlands and has served as an agricultural extension agent with the U.S. Peace Corps in Mauritania, West Africa.

MCLA’s Green Living Seminar Series brings environmental experts to campus throughout the academic year to engage students and community members in conversations about sustainability, climate change, and ecological responsibility.

All presentations take place Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. in MCLA’s Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation, Room 121, and will be recorded as podcasts available at mcla.edu/greenliving. This event is free and open to the public.

Successful MLK Day Community Food Drive Benefits Amherst Survival Center

By
Daily News

AMHERST — State Rep. Mindy Domb announced that the second annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day community food drive resulted in 4,672 pounds of food donated to the Amherst Survival Center by residents of Amherst and neighboring towns.

Led by state Rep. Aaron Saunders and state Sen. Jake Oliveira, the town of Belchertown participated in the drive this year and collected 1,654 pounds of food. These donations joined the generosity of participants including state Sen. Jo Comerford, the town of Amherst, Wildwood Elementary School, residents of Applewood at Amherst, the Sunderland Human Rights Committee and Friends, and the Sunderland Woman’s Club.

“We are profoundly grateful to Representative Mindy Domb for her long-standing partnership and leadership in hosting this food drive in support of the Amherst Survival Center,” said Carleen Basler, executive director of the Amherst Survival Center. “Her unwavering commitment to our neighbors facing food insecurity honors Dr. King’s legacy of service and love in action. Because of Rep. Domb’s efforts, more members of our community will have access to nourishing food and the dignity they deserve.”

Domb extended her gratitude to all who donated and the volunteer team at the Amherst Survival Center for sorting and processing these donations.

The Amherst Survival Center serves more than 10,000 people annually and offers services such as a food pantry, daily community meals, fresh food distribution, showers, lockers, information and referrals to other community agencies, and a variety of other services. For more information on food assistance available to the residents of the 3rd Hampshire District, visit repmindydomb.com/freefood.

Monson Savings to Host Free “Homebuying 101” Event at Red Rose on March 12

By
Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank will host a free workshop, “Homebuying 101: Your Path to Homeownership,” on Thursday, March 12 from 6 to 9 p.m. at Red Rose Pizzeria in Springfield.

Monson Savings Bank has designed this workshop to break down the homebuying process from start to finish in an easily digestible format, focusing on the fundamentals. It was developed to be informative, friendly, and actionable, ensuring attendees leave the event feeling hopeful and supported as they take steps toward homeownership.

The event will be hosted by Monson Savings Bank homebuying experts Wil Morales, Terry Poloski, and Brett Charron, who will provide helpful advice and answers to attendees’ questions, as well as cheat sheets, tools, and a clear plan to make homeownership possible.

“What we love about this format is that it caters to everyone, from those just beginning to consider homeownership, or feeling overwhelmed by the process, to those who feel homeownership is out of reach, and even to those who simply want to learn more and feel confident during the homebuying process,” said Morales, assistant vice president and Community Lending officer. “We are here providing the resources and support to move forward, prepare for the next steps, and get community members on the path to homeownership.”

Monson Savings will provide registrants with complimentary light refreshments and free parking. To further support the homebuying success, registered attendees will be gifted a coupon offer of up to $585 off an appraisal fee, along with an opportunity to win gift card drawing prizes.

“Owning a home can bring joy, helps build equity, offers stability, and fosters a sense of community. We want to continue to do our part as a community bank to break down barriers and be a resource that can help individuals and families to enjoy and benefit from becoming homeowners,” Morales added. “We encourage anyone who may be interested to register or call us so we can help them to get ready for all homeownership has to offer.”

Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. Click here to register or call (413) 267-4646 for assistance.

Big Y Donates 1 Million Meals to Local Food Banks

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Big Y’s annual Sack Hunger campaign once again delivered a powerful show of community support, providing 1 million meals to food banks serving families across Massachusetts and Connecticut. The milestone reflects the collective generosity of customers, employees, and partners who stepped up during the critical holiday season to help address food insecurity close to home.

Through Sack Hunger, every $5 customer donation helps deliver 10 meals to neighbors in need. This impact is amplified by Big Y’s additional contributions, including designated proceeds from the Produce, Floral, and Meat departments, along with a portion of sales from Big Y’s family of private label brands. Together, these efforts help ensure food banks can meet increased demand during the winter months.

Since its launch in 2010, Sack Hunger has continued to grow in reach and impact. What began as a modest effort has evolved into a cornerstone of Big Y’s year-round commitment to fighting hunger, complemented by near-daily donations of fresh meat, produce, bakery items, and other essential groceries.

“Reaching one million meals is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Michael D’Amour, president and CEO of Big Y. “We are grateful for our customers and employees who consistently and generously support this annual campaign. Sack Hunger reflects the heart of who we are as a company and our belief that access to nutritious food should never be out of reach.”

The funds raised through Sack Hunger directly support four regional food banks: Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Worcester County Food Bank, Greater Boston Food Bank, and Connecticut Foodshare, which together serve nearly 1,500 local agencies working on the front lines of hunger relief.

Easthampton Learning Foundation Awards $34,000 in Grants for 2025-26

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — The Easthampton Learning Foundation (ELF) has awarded more than $34,000 in grants for the 2025-26 school year, supporting teacher- and community driven-projects that bring creativity and hands-on learning while expanding students’ access to extracurricular and enrichment opportunities they might not otherwise experience.

This year’s funding supports a wide range of K-12 programs, including after-school drama and puppetry clubs that foster belonging and creative expression, jazz instruction and guest artist residencies, and hands-on STEAM learning through robotics, math festivals, and environmental science in partnership with local organizations such as Arcadia Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Several grants support experiential learning beyond the classroom. Middle school students will attend a live performance of Hamlet at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, while others will participate in an oceanography field trip to Mystic Aquarium. Additional programs focus on social-emotional learning through poetry and storytelling; skill-building experiences for students facing physical, mental, or emotional challenges; and a pilot project designed to strengthen special education service delivery through improved progress monitoring and family engagement.

“What we see every year is how thoughtful and resourceful Easthampton educators and our community are, and this year was no different,” said Gen Brough, president of the Easthampton Learning Foundation. “These grants translate good ideas into real opportunities for students, whether that’s learning through the arts, getting hands-on with science and math, or creating spaces where students feel challenged, seen, supported, and inspired.”

Together, ELF’s 2025-26 grants will reach thousands of students across Easthampton schools, supporting learning that is meaningful, creative, and rooted in the needs of the community.

“The excitement among the teachers and students participating in programs supported by ELF grants is palpable, and the impact is immeasurable,” Easthampton Public Schools Superintendent Michelle Balch said. “ELF is a powerful partner in our work, and we are deeply grateful for their continued support. ELF’s investment in our schools brings learning to life. This partnership truly makes a difference for our students.”

Tickets on Sale Now for 2026 Difference Makers Gala

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Tickets are now on sale for the 18th annual Difference Makers awards gala, hosted by BusinessWest. The event will take place on Tuesday, April 7 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10-12 are available. They can be purchased by clicking here.

The Difference Makers class of 2026 will be introduced in the Feb. 16 issue of BusinessWest. This year’s honorees are:

• Ryan Alekman and Robert DiTusa, partners, Alekman DiTusa, LLC;

• Rachelle Hannoush, director of Youth, Violence Prevention, and Court Support Programs, YWCA of Western Massachusetts;

• Jess Miller, comedian and founder, The Kind Squad;

• Darby O’Brien, owner, Darby O’Brien Advertising;

• Julie Quink, managing principal, Burkhart Pizzanelli, P.C.;

• Edward Sokolowski, managing partner and wealth advisor, Pioneer Valley Financial Group;

• Margaret Tantillo, executive director, O’Dell Women’s Center; and

• Zeno Temple, founder, Just Us Movement.

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 Massachusetts. The 18th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkart Pizzanelli, P.C., TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

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

Bay Path Names Humberto Ariza Director of Augmented Intelligence Operations

By
Daily News

Humberto Ariza

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University announced the appointment of Humberto Ariza as its inaugural director of Augmented Intelligence Operations, a new leadership role designed to guide the university’s strategic integration of artificial intelligence across teaching, learning, and operations.

Ariza brings more than a decade of experience in higher education as a scholar, academic leader, and strategist working at the intersection of artificial intelligence, online learning, student success, and institutional effectiveness. Prior to joining Bay Path, he served at D’Youville University, where he led initiatives focused on innovation in digital learning and AI-enhanced education.

He holds a doctorate in education and is a published author and researcher on AI and online learning. His work includes a book on AI-powered tutoring, AI Tutors in Action: Chatbots Transforming Modern Education. Most recently, he co-authored Transforming Education Through Faculty Development and AI-Driven Course Design, which explores how institutions can thoughtfully integrate AI into curriculum design and faculty development. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in AI and hyperautomation through EUNEIZ Universidad and EBIS Business Techschool in Spain.

In addition to his academic work, Ariza was a co-founder and now serves as senior advisor to a multinational AI-powered educational technology company that supports higher education institutions in Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East, regions facing some of the highest barriers to access in higher education.

A nationally and internationally invited speaker, he has presented on AI, online learning, and higher education innovation across the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and Africa. He regularly engages faculty, academic leaders, and policymakers in conversations about the responsible, mission-aligned use of AI in education. His leadership and scholarship have been recognized with the Future Leaders Scholarship Award from the Assoc. of American Colleges and Universities.

He is also a host of “3os: Online by Design,” a globally followed podcast focused on online education and artificial intelligence, available on Spotify and reaching listeners in more than 40 countries.

At Bay Path, Ariza will provide leadership for the university’s AI initiatives at all levels. Last fall, Bay Path launched an Augmented Reality Lab that meets regularly and brings together representatives from across academic and administrative units. This collaborative effort is designed to foster innovation and ensure thoughtful, mission-driven implementation of AI technologies.

“Our approach is grounded in discipline and practice,” Ariza said. “We are focused on using AI in a humanistic way to make our students and university community better stewards in the greater community. More important, we want our students to be proficient and confident in using AI so they are well-prepared for their careers and professional roles.”

Community Invited to GCC Celebration of Community on March 5

By
Daily News

GREENFIELD — The Greenfield Community College (GCC) Foundation invites community partners, supporters, alumni, and friends to “Building Bridges & Belonging: GCC’s Celebration of Community,” an annual fundraising dinner honoring connection, education, and shared values.

The event will take place Wednesday, March 5 from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the GCC Cohn Family Dining Commons. Tickets cost $50 per person. Registration is required by Feb. 23.

The evening will feature a catered dinner, a cash bar and the presentation of awards recognizing outstanding GCC alumni and community partners. Attendees will also hear from current GCC students about how the college has influenced their educational journeys and lives.

Proceeds from the event will support the GCC Impact Fund, which helps ensure students have the resources they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom.

“It is a delight to bring together so many remarkable people from the GCC community each year,” said Alexis Page, executive director of the GCC Foundation. “The evening always leaves attendees with a glow from the shared commitment to improving lives through education.”

This year’s Community Catalyst Award, which is presented to an individual who demonstrates exemplary community service and leadership, will be presented to Wendy Sibbison. Inspired by a Greenfield Recorder column by GCC student Michael Hannigan about food insecurity, Sibbison inspired Franklin Community Co-op member-owners to donate more than $10,000 to support GCC’s Food Pantry.

This year’s Community Champion Award will be presented to the MassHire Franklin Hampshire Career Center, which provides free employment and training services to people throughout the region. Each year, MassHire collaborates with GCC to host a free, public career and job fair on campus, where students can network and connect with potential employers.

In celebration of the achievements of GCC graduates, GCC will also honor alumni. Thomas Crossman (’11) will receive a Distinguished Alumni Award, recognizing his professional accomplishments and contributions since graduating from GCC. The Young Alumni in Action Award will be presented to Christian LaPlante (’19), recently named Franklin County’s first downtown district coordinator. LaPlante serves in this newly created role as part of a Rural Downtown Revitalization Pilot Project to strengthen the economic and cultural vitality of downtown Northfield, Turners Falls, and Shelburne Falls.

For more information about the event or to register, visit gccfor.me/bridges.

Springfield Museums to Auction Remaining Low-number Dr. Seuss License Plates

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Museums announced a second online auction of low-number Massachusetts license plates featuring Dr. Seuss’s iconic Cat in the Hat. The auction will run from Monday, March 2 at 10 a.m. through Sunday, March 8 at 5 p.m.

The Springfield Museums is home to the world’s only museum dedicated to the Springfield native and beloved children’s author (born Theodor Seuss Geisel), with proceeds from the plates supporting the its mission to promote literacy and learning. With just 26 remaining, this might be the final opportunity for Massachusetts residents to own a coveted low-number Dr. Seuss plate.

“We’re delighted to offer a select group of low-number Dr. Seuss plates for a second charitable auction,” said Kay Simpson, president and CEO of the Springfield Museums. “Each plate celebrates the unique history of our hometown hero Theodor Seuss Geisel, and every bid helps us continue our work promoting literacy, creativity, and lifelong learning through our museums and programs.”

The catalog of plates can be viewed online now at drseussplates.givesmart.com. Highlights include single-digit plates such as DR 2 and DR 5, as well as DR 50, a nod to the publisher’s challenge that inspired Green Eggs and Ham, written using only 50 unique words. Additional double-digit plates — potentially meaningful for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special dates — will also be offered.

The auction will take place at drseussplates.givesmart.com, where interested buyers are encouraged to register in advance to receive updates. Bidders can participate in real time from desktop, mobile, and tablet devices. Registration is also available by texting DrSeussPlates to 76278.

For questions, contact the Springfield Museums Development Office at (413) 314-6458 or [email protected].

Greenfield Community College Announces Early Retirement Incentive Program

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Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Community College (GCC) announced plans to offer an early retirement incentive program to eligible employees represented by AFSME and MCCC, as well as non-union employees, as an initial cost-saving measure in response to a projected budget shortfall.

Like many community colleges across Massachusetts and the nation, GCC is navigating an increasingly challenging financial environment shaped by rising operational costs and broader economic pressures affecting public higher education.

The early retirement incentive program is intended to reduce personnel costs while minimizing disruption to students and college operations. Participation in the program is voluntary, and the college will assess its financial impact in determining what additional cost-saving measures are necessary.

“This step allows us to address our budget challenges in a responsible and measured way,” President Michelle Schutt said. “Our goal is to protect the core academic mission of the college while being thoughtful and transparent about the financial realities facing higher education today.”

The college will evaluate the results of the early retirement incentive program along with other actions. Any additional cost-saving approaches, if needed, will be informed by the outcomes of this effort and guided by GCC’s commitment to student success, access, and educational quality. GCC will continue to work collaboratively with employee unions and campus stakeholders as the process moves forward and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

MCLA Partners with Habitat for Humanity on Free Tax Preparation Services

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) and its Department of Business Administration will once again partner with Habitat for Humanity to offer free tax preparation services to qualified residents through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program starting Feb. 11.

Through the IRS’s VITA program, MCLA students assist taxpayers by providing free tax preparation services. To qualify, individuals and families must earn $69,000 or less. The program also serves those with disabilities, limited English-speaking skills, and individuals over age 65 with retirement or pension income.

Students work under the supervision of MCLA Accounting Professor Tara Barboza, a certified public accountant (CPA). According to Barboza, participating students undergo rigorous IRS training to become IRS-certified over their winter break, followed by in-person training throughout January and the first week of February.

“Participating in the VITA program is a unique opportunity that provides students with valuable, hands-on tax, business, and office experience,” Barboza said. “They earn college credit, and accounting students can use this credit toward the requirements for the CPA exam, all while volunteering in our community. In addition, students build a sense of belonging, confidence, and soft skills that will serve them throughout their college and professional careers.”

Interested individuals should call Habitat for Humanity at (413) 442-3181 to determine eligibility and schedule an appointment. MCLA students are seeing clients Mondays and Wednesdays from 4 to 8 p.m. in MCLA’s Murdock Hall Business Suite, Room 102, located at 375 Church St. in North Adams. The program will continue through April 15.

Rocky’s Ace Hardware Customers Raise $113,930 Through Round Up for Kids

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — A few cents at the register turned into a powerful show of community support as Rocky’s Ace Hardware customers once again stepped up for children’s health. This year’s Round Up for Kids campaign raised $113,930 across Rocky’s locations, directing critical funding to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals serving the communities where customers live and shop.

The fundraiser ran during two high-traffic periods, one in the spring and another during the late fall and holiday season, giving customers multiple opportunities to round their purchase totals up to the nearest dollar. Those small contributions added up quickly, with Baystate Children’s Hospital receiving more than $23,925 from participating Rocky’s stores in Western Mass.

“Round Up for Kids shows what happens when local communities come together around something bigger than a single transaction,” said Rocco Falcone, president of Rocky’s Ace Hardware. “Our customers understand that these hospitals are there for families on their hardest days, and they’re proud to support care that can change a child’s future.”

Eight Rocky’s locations in Western Mass. took part in the campaign. One hundred percent of the funds raised at those locations were directed to Baystate Children’s Hospital to support pediatric care, medical innovation. and family-centered services.

“This campaign continues to grow because people believe in it,” Falcone said. “Looking ahead, we’re excited to keep building on this momentum and finding new ways to support the hospitals that do so much for our communities.”