Home 2026 April (Page 5)

Month: April 2026

Spectrum Launches Virtual American Sign Language Service in Chicopee Store

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — Spectrum is bringing its virtual American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation service to Chicopee. The service connects deaf customers and Spectrum store specialists through a live ASL interpreter, enabling real-time communication in store. Available in select locations across the country, the service is expanding to reach more than 90 Spectrum stores by the end of the year. In Chicopee, the virtual ASL interpretation service is now available at the 591 Memorial Dr. store.

For many deaf customers, a simple store visit can mean relying on handwritten notes or typing messages back and forth. At participating Spectrum stores, customers can scan a QR code using their personal device to connect instantly with a live ASL interpreter, enabling a natural, real-time conversation about Spectrum products, services, billing questions, or account updates.

“Our goal is simple: when someone walks into a Spectrum store, they should feel supported,” said Peter Brown, group vice president, Agency and Accessibility, for Spectrum. “Delivering great service means designing experiences that work for all of our customers and reflect the care and attention they expect from us.”

Spectrum first launched a successful pilot of the virtual ASL interpreting service in Rochester, N.Y. in 2024 and expanded to Austin, Texas; Los Angeles; and New York City in 2025. In 2026, Spectrum is bringing virtual ASL interpretation to 34 additional towns and cities across Spectrum’s service area, focused on communities with strong deaf populations.

Jimmy Rosario Joins Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank

By
Daily News

Jimmy Rosario

GREENFIELD — Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank announced the addition of Jimmy Rosario as assistant branch manager of its South Hadley branch, located at 487 Newton St.

Rosario brings nine years of banking experience to the role, along with a strong commitment to customer service and community engagement. He holds a degree in criminal justice from Springfield Technical Community College and has built meaningful connections throughout the Springfield metropolitan area. In his new position, he looks forward to developing relationships with customers in South Hadley and supporting their financial goals. Like many members of the local community, Rosario is bilingual in Spanish.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jimmy to the South Hadley team,” Branch Manager Joanna Czarniecka said. “His experience, energy, and dedication to building stronger community relationships make him a great fit for our branch and the community we serve.”

Rosario’s addition reflects Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank’s continued commitment to providing personalized service and strengthening its presence in the community.

More Than 150 Volunteers Register for Downtown Pittsfield Spring Cleanup on April 17

By
Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Downtown Pittsfield Inc. (DPI) will host a Downtown Pittsfield Spring Cleanup on Friday, April 17 from noon to 4 p.m. DPI’s Downtown Pittsfield Cleanups are good-natured competitions between local companies and individuals supporting an important part of DPI’s mission to keep downtown clean, safe, and friendly. This year, more than 150 volunteers representing more than a dozen local businesses and organizations will take to the streets for this annual event.

Participating teams include Barrington Stage Company, BCARC Transitions, BerkshireRealtors, Berkshire Family YMCA, Berkshire Medical Center, Berkshire Museum, Berkshire Theatre Group, CT Management Group, Carr Hardware, Christian Center of Pittsfield, city of Pittsfield, Crane Currency, Guardian Life Insurance Co. of America, MOLARI, SABIC High Performance Products, ServiceNet (the Pearl, the First, and Living in Recovery), and Temescal Wellness.

The downtown cleanup area includes North and South Streets between East and West Housatonic streets and Berkshire Medical Center and all side streets. The following awards will be presented by a panel of judges to four deserving cleanup teams at an awards ceremony at Otto’s Kitchen & Comfort after the cleanup: Little Litter Busters, Crushed Soda Can, Golden Trash Bag, and the Dream Team Cleaners.

For more information on the Downtown Pittsfield Spring Cleanup, visit downtownpittsfield.com or call Downtown Pittsfield Inc. at (413) 443-6501.

MCLA Green Living Seminar Series Concludes with Exploration of Rivers

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will host the final presentation of its 2025-26 Green Living Seminar Series on Wednesday, April 22 at 5:30 p.m. in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation, Room 121. The presentation is free and open to the public and will be recorded and available at mcla.edu/greenliving.

Nicolas Howe, Professor of Environmental Studies at Williams College, will present “Thinking Like a River: What Restoration Restores.” Drawing on ethnographic fieldwork in river restoration communities in New England and the U.K., Howe will explore how practitioners, activists, and artists are reimagining rivers not as hydrological systems to be engineered, but as living, thinking beings with spiritual power, moral weight, and cultural identity. The talk will move between the philosophy and anthropology of ecological restoration, asking what it means to restore not just the physical form or ecological integrity of a river, but its mind and spirit.

Howe is the author of Landscapes of the Secular: Law, Religion, and American Sacred Space and co-author of Climate Change as Social Drama: Global Warming in the Public Sphere. Trained as a human geographer, he studies the cultural dimensions of environmental thought and action.

MCLA’s Green Living Seminar Series brings environmental experts, scholars, and practitioners to campus throughout the academic year to engage students and community members in conversations about sustainability, ecology, and our relationship with the natural world.

Rick’s Auto Body Carries On After Founder’s Passing

By
Owner Mari Tarpinian
Cover Story

The Road Ahead

Owner Mari Tarpinian

Owner Mari Tarpinian

When Rick Recor passed away on Jan. 21, it marked the end of a life well-lived.

But it did not mark the end of an era — if that’s what we can call a business that has grown and thrived for more than a half-century, and will continue to do so under the ownership of Recor’s widow, Mari Tarpinian.

“We’re very proud of this, and we still love what we do,” she told BusinessWest during a recent visit to Rick’s Auto Body, which has been headquartered on a sprawling Pasco Road property in Springfield for almost three decades. “Looking back after all these years, it’s definitely had its ups and downs, but we still love what we do, and we still want to live by what Rick would always say — ‘treat a customer the way you’d want to be treated.’ He’d say it all the time.”

Recor was a successful businessman, but he was also a cancer survivor, having fought off throat cancer that he developed in 2005. In the end, that medical history contributed to his death; radiation treatments two decades ago weakened his jaw, which fractured last year and needed replacement.

“He went to Boston to have the jaw replaced, and for most people — like, if you’re in an accident, and the jaw just severs — it’s a clean cut,” Tarpinian explained. But because Recor’s jaw had become necrotic, the situation was more dicey.

“Looking back after all these years, it’s definitely had its ups and downs, but we still love what we do, and we still want to live by what Rick would always say — ‘treat a customer the way you’d want to be treated.’ He’d say it all the time.”

“The pain was excruciating, but he still came to work every day. They had to replace the jaw with a metal plate, but while he was in there, he got a very, very bad strain of pneumonia that is very resistant to any kind of antibiotics.

“Then they thought he was beyond it, and then he would get another infection, and then they thought he was beyond that, and he got another infection,” she went on. “He was in the ICU for almost four months in Boston.”

Eventually, Recor succumbed to illness. In his final days, he only wanted to see a few people — family and the management team. And while he declined quickly in the end — and he and Tarpinian didn’t have as much time as they would have liked to discuss the business transition — they fully intended to keep the venture going.

“We’ve been approached so many times,” Tarpinian said of inquiries to acquire the operation over the years. “Not to be braggadocious or anything, but we’re known locally, we are known in the state, and we’re really well-known within the industry. There was an outfit from California, and they would have considered us one of their crown jewels because of our certifications and the financial commitments that we’ve made in our tools and machinery.”

But that’s not what Recor wanted — and it’s not what she wants.

“He still wanted to be an asset to our community, and he wanted to be locally owned and operated,” she said. “He always felt that was beneficial to the community, beneficial to the product that we put out, and beneficial to the customer service. Because we’re here. It’s not like a big conglomerate in another state buying up places, and they’re never there; it’s just for the portfolio.”

Indeed, Tarpinian and her dedicated team intend to be there on Pasco Road, continuing Recor’s legacy the best way they know how — treating customers how they’d want to be treated.

Rick Recor led the company that bears his name for 52 years.

Rick Recor led the company that bears his name for 52 years.

Driven by a Passion

Born in Springfield in 1952, Recor was associated with the city his entire life — and developed a passion for cars at age 5, when he would follow his father to work.

In 1974, he went into business for himself, opening a small repair shop in a one-car garage behind Millie’s Pierogi on Broadway Street in Chicopee, which he called Rick’s Auto Body.

He steadily added customers and grew the business into progressively larger garages. In 1997, he moved into the current headquarters, a 40,000-square-foot facility that once housed Grossman’s Lumber.

“He still wanted to be an asset to our community, and he wanted to be locally owned and operated.”

There, he built a large family business; Tarpinian, who previously worked in the travel industry, came on board more than two decades ago, and her sister, Susan, has been the office manager for even longer. And that idea of family doesn’t refer only to blood relatives, Tarpinian said, but extends to a workplace culture where many of the roughly 45 employees have been there for decades — as she put it, “we have people from six months to 38 years and everything in between.”

Recently, the business added a 6,000-square-foot building that Recor never got to see completed, mainly to house parts carts. “When a vehicle’s being repaired, all the parts don’t come at the same time, and while we’re waiting for all the parts to come in on a particular job, those parts carts are in the way of us being able to book more vehicles to get repaired,” Tarpinian explained. “So he decided to build an annex.”

Recor ran the business differently than many in this industry, Tarpinian said, including a refusal to run what’s known as a ‘flat-rate shop,’ where employees are paid according to how much work they put out — a model that can prioritize speed over quality and an ‘everyone in it for themselves’ mentality.

The leadership team at Rick’s Auto Body

The leadership team at Rick’s Auto Body, from left: Parts Manager Nafees Nadeem, Production Manager Mike Haniffy, owner Mari Tarpinian, Office Manager Susan Tarpinian, and Operations Manager Chuck Laprade.

“Many times, when technicians are flat rate, they don’t want to help the technician next to them. Here, they’re helping each other make the product the best. That was his philosophy.”

Recor was old-school in many ways, she added. “When the phone rings, it’s not ‘press one, press two’ — we answer the phone live. People appreciate the same service that existed in the 1970s — and they’ve grown with us.”

That’s not to say plenty hasn’t changed, starting with the way cars are essentially rolling computers these days.

And repairing them requires plenty of continual learning and manufacturer certifications — the most recent was by Tesla — at a facility where all work is done in-house, Tarpinian said, from frame work to mechanical work to alignments. “The only time a customer’s car would leave the shop is if an airbag goes off or something like that; then it has to go to the dealer so the dealer can reset it.”

Today’s biggest challenges running the company include the expected — getting parts on a timely basis and maintaining staffing for such a large operation.

“We’ll do things for each other outside of work, and we’re just here for each other. When they found out that Rick passed away, everybody was crying.”

“Everyone’s looking for good help, and there are ups and downs. But we have a great reputation, so we’re really fortunate that we’re able to sustain the way we do business,” she said, again noting the culture of family and loyalty that Recor seeked to instill. “We’ll do things for each other outside of work, and we’re just here for each other. When they found out that Rick passed away, everybody was crying.

“The other thing I will say is that probably 97% of the times that an employee gets a raise, they haven’t asked for it. And I think that says something. It says that we, as an organization, recognize someone when they’re doing a good job, and we give them a raise without being asked. It’s indicative of how we how we are here, and we just want to continue the way Rick did it.”

 

Shifting into the Next Phase

Tarpinian said Recor’s story is an inspiring one.

“He came from nothing. You know, he didn’t graduate from 10th grade; he is a high school dropout,” she told BusinessWest. “But he was a numbers guy. He knew numbers inside and out. And that, combined with sweat equity, just working really hard, made him a success.”

Not only with auto repair, but with ancillary businesses like vehicle sales, towing, a car wash, and other properties. “He just felt really lucky.”

And grateful, too, for the company’s many repeat customers — many representing two or three generations of the same family, bringing their cars to Rick’s Auto Body over the decades. “We have kids that are 17 years old up to people that are 98, and they’re still driving. It’s all facets of life.”

Rick’s Auto Body moved to its current headquarters on Pasco Road in Springfield in 1997.

Rick’s Auto Body moved to its current headquarters on Pasco Road in Springfield in 1997.

Recor’s life will be celebrated with a memorial service on Saturday, April 18 at Wilbraham Funeral Home. Calling hours are from 9 a.m. to noon, followed by a funeral service at noon. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.

Tarpinian is certainly grateful for Recor’s life, and expects many people feel the same.

“There were so many times when people would come here and thought that they needed to spend money to have something done. And he would just say, ‘listen, let me just take your keys.’ He’d go around to the back and have our detail department buff something out, no charge, for someone. Or there was a single mother with her kids in the van, and she had a problem with her tires. He would do things for people.”

In short, she added, he was proud to serve the community that had been good to him.

“I feel like we’re an asset to this community, too, because there are so many times when people will call us and treat us like the library or Google or something, asking us questions because they just don’t know where to get the answers. It may not even be a job we’ll end up getting, or it’s not even part of a repair process that we do, like rust or something like that. But we will always give them as much information as we can on the phone. And we still do that. They’ll say, ‘we didn’t know who to call,’ and we’ll say, ‘ask us; we’ll help you.’ That’s how we do it. It’s kind of old fashioned, right?”

That’s the sort of client relationship Recor valued, Tarpinian said, and he wanted it to continue.

“He didn’t want it sold. He definitely did not want it sold to a conglomerate. He definitely voiced that to all of us, that he wanted us to carry it on. And that’s what we’re going to do.

“So I just really want the public to know that we are going to keep it here in the family, and we are going to keep on doing business exactly how he wanted to do business,” she added. “We’re going to respect that.”

Area Landscapers Say Business Is in a Growth Mode

By
Brian Campedelli says the harsh winter benefited landscapers in a few ways; it gave a solid start to those that plow snow, and it created great anticipation for spring.
Construction Special Coverage

Spring in Their Step

Brian Campedelli says the harsh winter benefited landscapers in a few ways; it gave a solid start to those that plow snow, and it created great anticipation for spring.

Brian Campedelli says the harsh winter benefited landscapers in a few ways; it gave a solid start to those that plow snow, and it created great anticipation for spring.

 

After the long, hard winter of 2025-26, Brian Campedelli notes, “people are saying, ‘get me outside — I don’t want to be in my house anymore.’”

And not just get out there, but enhance their outdoor spaces and make it so they can spend more quality time there.

He knows this because of the number and nature of the phone calls to his Easthampton-based business, Pioneer Landscapes, and also because of the turnout at the company’s booth at the recent Home & Garden Show at the Eastern States Exposition and the eagerness of many visitors to do something with their backyards.

“We got a lot of quality leads,” he said. “And these are people who came prepared; we saw people who came in with sketches, photos on their phones, and the ones who didn’t have photos were bringing up their ring cameras and showing us their yard. They knew the sizes of the patios they wanted, the water features … everyone was driven this year; they were ready to go.”

An overwhelming desire to move on from this past winter is just one of the many factors likely to contribute to a good year for businesses in the broad landscaping category in 2026. Another factor is that winter itself; indeed, many companies in this realm, like Pioneer, also handle commercial and residential snow removal, and Campedelli counted 14 plowable events and dozens more salting events over the past four months, helping the bottom line in 2025 and getting 2026 off to a solid start, much better than many recent winters.

“Everything that takes your weekend away from you throughout the summer … we can handle that for you.”

Other factors include a still-strong market for everything from patios and retaining walls to waterfalls and koi ponds, the need for many residents to put a fresh face on work done years ago, and an improved labor market generated by slower times in other sectors. The landscape professionals we spoke with also describe a growing reluctance among homeowners to give up quality time to mowing, fertilizing, and trimming, and a growing desire to let someone else do all that.

“Everything that takes your weekend away from you throughout the summer … we can handle that for you,” said Campedelli, noting that, while a segment of the population has always been willing to pay to let professionals tend to their lawn and gardens, that constituency is growing, based on interest in the different packages offered by the company (more on them later).

Jacob Hall, an enterprising 17-year-old Minnechaug High School student who started his own landscaping business with two friends two years ago, agreed.

“They just don’t have the time to it, and they don’t want to get dirty,” he said, adding that this trend has helped him grow the mowing client list at Caesar’s Lawn & Landscape to more than 50. “In many cases, it can be cheaper in the long run to hire someone, and people are really busy; it just takes one thing off their plate.”

As for those backyard elements, everything from pavilions to firepits to waterfalls large and small, Stephen Roberts says they are part of an ongoing trend toward making these spaces entertainment centers that meld technology with comfort. And the list of what goes into backyards today continues to grow and evolve.

“There’s a lot that goes into creating a nice backyard with all the amenities,” the owner of Springfield-based Stephen A. Roberts Landscaping told BusinessWest. “There’s the shed, the pool house, fencing, retaining walls, paving, lighting, sound systems, and structures that can protect furniture from the elements.”

Roberts said his firm has a full slate of projects for the months to come — all of them booked last fall — and he’s spending his time now scheduling projects for later in the summer and fall, while also managing the expectations of those who thought they could call in March and get a pool put in by the start of summer.

 

Overall, he said the volume of work has declined from the boom times during the COVID years, when seemingly everyone was investing in their backyard. But it has picked up from a few years ago, when he was in “downsize mode” and doing more of the work himself.

If there is a concern heading into the meat of the landscaping season, it involves whether residents and businesses will continue to spend on their outdoor spaces amid rising prices for many items and general uncertainty about the economy and global conflicts, said Dan Ziomek, general manager of Sugarloaf Gardens in Sunderland, the retail arm of Snow & Sons Landscaping, which sells to the general public as well.

“People are investing more in their yards and gardens, but given the price of gas and the price of groceries, are people going to spend their disposable income with us?” he asked rhetorically. “We’re just going to have to see as we go along.”

But, overall, he and others we spoke with were generally optimistic that 2026 will be a year to grow — literally and figuratively.

 

A Cut Above

As he talked with BusinessWest, Roberts was working with a repeat customer — a Holyoke resident who was replacing a pool put in 20 years ago while also putting in a new backyard complete with retaining walls — and coping with a tight deadline.

“It’s a big project, and a lot goes into it because he wants to be swimming by May, and there’s a lot of pressure to get it done,” said Roberts, adding that this project typifies the opportunities and challenges facing those in this business.

“People are investing more in their yards and gardens, but given the price of gas and the price of groceries, are people going to spend their disposable income with us? We’re just going to have to see as we go along.”

There are many homeowners putting in new installations or upgrading old ones, he said, adding that managing expectations for many of these customers is now a big part of the job.

“A lot of people call and want miracles done in the spring,” he explained. “They need to realize that we’re booked up with projects that were signed up in the fall.”

Overall, business is good across the broad spectrum of the landscape business, from mowing lawns to designing and building those backyard elements.

Pioneer Landscapes does all of that, Campedelli said, adding that, on the design side, much of the project work involves designing and building what the industry calls outdoor rooms.

“They give you a space that makes you feel relaxed and cozy, between using all the elements such as lighting and music, waterfalls, and fire rocks — if you can dream it, we can do it.”

And what people are dreaming about are spaces where they can entertain, but that are also easy to maintain and protect from the elements, said Roberts, adding that many homeowners are moving from gazebos to pavilions.

“We’re seeing the outdoor rooms, the covered space outside, more than just a gazebo, which was a quick fix — those were mostly underutilized because there’s only so much you can do under a gazebo,” he explained. “People are putting in outdoor entertainment systems — maybe a drop-down TV, a fireplace, some nice couches that don’t get wet, sound systems, and outdoor lighting systems that are controlled by Wi-Fi so they can change colors and dim the lights.”

And, by and large, there remains strong interest in these big investments, said those we spoke with. While demand is not as strong as it was at the height of the pandemic, when the backyard was the only place people could go for vacation, it remains solid.

The Home & Garden Show provided ample evidence of this, said Campedelli, adding that most visitors to the Pioneer booth were driven and ready to move forward with projects.

“They were saying, ‘I want a fence,’ or ‘I want irrigation,’ or ‘I want a backyard makeover’ … there was a lot of that,” he said, adding that, while there is some uncertainty with the economy and concern over recent events globally, many consumers still have the requisite confidence to move forward with what can be a big-ticket item.

Roberts agreed, but said there is certainly some lingering angst concerning inflation and tensions overseas.

As for the businesses handling this work, the hard winter of 2025-26 was the best in years when it came to plowing, generating solid cash flow, and creating momentum for the seasons to follow.

“We’re rolling right now, and I hope it just keeps on going,” Campedelli said, adding that he expects it will, given all those factors he listed earlier.

 

Mow of the Same

These include that trend toward letting someone else mow the lawn and trim the hedges, he told BusinessWest, adding that, in addition to their backyards, people also value the time they spend in them.

And this has translated into growing interest in the company’s maintenance programs, which range in price from $130 to $995 a month, such as the ‘carefree weekend package,’ which includes mowing and trimming around beds, fences, and walkways, and blowing off driveways, sidewalks, and patios; the ‘outdoor living protection package,’ which includes a fertilization plan and mosquito and tick control services; and the ‘complete outdoor care and seasonal maintenance bundle,’ which includes spring and fall cleanups, aeration and overseeding, irrigation maintenance, and much more.

“These programs are becoming more popular,” he explained. “We just started offering the packages, and so far, they’re a hit.”

This trend helps explain the fast, steady growth of Caesar’s Lawn & Landscape, a company that, like many in this sector, started with a young person mowing lawns for family, friends, and neighbors, and eventually turning it into a business.

And like most entrepreneurs, Hall has been involved in all aspects of this endeavor, from naming it — Caesar is his middle name, and “I thought it had a nice ring to it” — to taking calls and giving estimates; from mowing lawns himself to doing the legwork on forming an LLC.

He started in 2024 with a small portfolio of 10 to 12 lawns and has since worked with partners Trevor Plante and Jonathon Knight to grow the venture and its list of services to include hardscape work such as patios and retaining walls, tree trimming, brush removal and land clearing, lawn maintenance, and, starting a few months ago, snow removal, using snow throwers and a salter on his truck.

“Those two big storms really helped us get that side of the business going, and we’re going to get more into that next year,” said Hall, a junior at Minnechaug, who works after school and on weekends, with his Ford F-250 serving as his workhorse vehicle and office.

Long-term, he and his partners plan to continue growing the venture, build on the momentum they’ve generated, and, for the short term, at least, find ways to balance school and work.

“It’s definitely fun, but also challenging to have your own business,” he said, noting that most high-schoolers work for someone else. “It’s rewarding to work hard and build something like this.”

The same can be said of homeowners and their gardens, said Ziomek, adding that gardening has always been a release for people, and he expects this will continue amid the economic uncertainty and global tensions of the moment.

“We’re hopeful that gardening remains an outlet for people to get away from all the noise happening the world,” he said. “And they’ll garden more because of that.”

Elaborating, he said that, in tough or uncertain times, people will grow more of their own vegetables and fruits as a hedge against higher prices, and he expects to see more of that this year.

“The other thing we notice is people just wanting to build a small oasis, if that’s the right word, to escape from all the stuff that’s going on in the world,” he went on. “It might just be a small perennial garden, or a few flowers in a spot where they see them all the time — just something to make them smile as they go in or out of the house.”

If these trends and the others mentioned above continue into 2026 and beyond, it will be all those in the broad landscape sector who will be smiling.

New Series Launches by Examining the Role of AI in Manufacturing

By
John Fazzio of Pilot Precision Products leads a breakout session.
Special Coverage Technology

The Future Is Now

John Fazzio of Pilot Precision Products leads a breakout session.

John Fazzio of Pilot Precision Products leads a breakout session.

 

Ben Grande spends $20 a month on a ChatGPT subscription. It’s a small expense with an occasionally very high return on investment.

“We’re making a huge capital purchase right now, and I wanted to knock the price down, so I hopped on ChatGPT,” said Grande, general manager of Meridian Industrial Group, a precision machine shop in Holyoke. “ChatGPT knows me and my company very well. I said, ‘here’s what we’re buying, here’s what we want to buy it for — but I want the price lower. Can you write me an email?’ It wrote the email, and five minutes later, I got $25,000 off the price. That’s well worth the $20.”

In his day job and also as president of the Western Massachusetts Chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Assoc., Grande has become well-versed in the potential of artificial intelligence in the manufacturing field, and he joined about a dozen other industry experts in sharing those insights on March 26 at the first installment of Strategy+Ai, a quarterly series BusinessWest has launched that dives into how AI is used — and could potentially be used — in a host of sectors, and by businesses of all kinds.

“You’re here in this room because you’ve heard about this thing called AI, and you’re somewhere on the journey from AI-curious to implementing it in your organization and wondering how it’s going to change everything — because it is changing everything.”

“You’re here in this room because you’ve heard about this thing called AI, and you’re somewhere on the journey from AI-curious to implementing it in your organization and wondering how it’s going to change everything — because it is changing everything,” said Paul Silva, CEO of Innovate413, one of BusinessWest’s partners in the AI series.

SEE: Scenes from the event below

“There are things possible now that five years ago would have been considered impossible,” he went on. “And if we embrace those opportunities, it’s going to have a profound impact on our businesses. If we don’t, there’s a fair bit of peril. So that’s why you all chose to come here today … to help you figure out what the next step in that journey is.”

Laura Teicher, president of FORGE — a nonprofit with a mission to help innovators navigate the journey from prototype to commercialization, and another partner with BusinessWest in the new AI series — noted that 57% of manufacturers are already using AI in some way.

Fletcher Conlon (left), 3D modeler and concept artist, and Greg Dumas, senior project manager, of RP Masiello, one of the event sponsors.

Fletcher Conlon (left), 3D modeler and concept artist, and Greg Dumas, senior project manager, of RP Masiello, one of the event sponsors.

“Now, is that always the most efficient way or the safest way? I think it depends on the manufacturer,” she said. “We want this event to help make AI feel more accessible and less scary because it’s happening; we’re all working on it. So many people in my network have been doing cool stuff with AI in their factories, but have been shy about talking about it because we’re all in the experimental phase. So today, we’re hoping to get some actionable insights. We want this to be a value add for all the manufacturers and ecosystem builders in the room.”

The inaugural event in the series was sponsored by RP Masiello and the Western New England University (WNE) FinTech program.

Greg Dumas, senior project manager at RP Masiello, told BusinessWest that the Boylston-based commercial building and construction management firm, which has an office in Amherst, has been increasingly busy with projects in Western Mass..

“We’re interested in tying in how AI could potentially help us in our construction fields and how we could better serve the clients and the end users, and how to tie it all together,” he said.

“The reason why we have our panelists here is they’ve taken that first step on that journey. These are people who’ve had the courage to reach out and begin to figure out how they can use it, and they’re starting to use it to their benefit.”

Meanwhile, Charles Mutigwe, associate professor of Business Analytics at WNE and director of its FinTech program, said the program wants to work with manufacturers, and this event was a good way reach out to more of them.

“We’re looking at it as an opportunity to build a bridge between our AI teams, with our supercomputer on campus, and companies that may need solutions or partners to do some of this.”

 

Sharing Success Stories

The event featured four breakout sessions, including one with John Fazzio, president and chief operating officer of Pilot Precision Products, a manufacturing company in South Deerfield.

“We have been using AI for the last few years, but most importantly, in the last year, we’ve actually implemented our first two AI agents,” he said, referring to autonomous software entities that companies use to solve problems and streamline processes.

Charles Mutigwe of Western New England University’s FinTech program, another sponsor, says the event is a way to build a bridge between the college and local companies.

Charles Mutigwe of Western New England University’s FinTech program, another sponsor, says the event is a way to build a bridge between the college and local companies.

The first such agent at Pilot is a customer service agent. The business gets anywhere from 60 to 80 phone calls a day, and the agent is currently handling 30 to 40 of those, thus saving almost 50% of typical phone call time daily.

“I just feel like the last thing I want a customer to do is call and get stuck in the loop of some automated phone system where they can’t really get to a person. So I didn’t really want to make the agent talk on the phone. Instead, I just decided to put the agent right on my website,” Fazzio explained.

“A couple of great things came from that. One, I get to drive traffic to the website, and I get to monitor all the traffic that comes in and where they go and what they look at. But on the flip side, people can go in, they can put in their customer information, part number, quantity, what they’re looking for. It will literally go into our system, look up that customer, pull their customer-specific pricing … find out how many we have in stock, and can give them an answer right over the website in about two minutes. It’s just like a chat box that sits and floats on the website.”

“Manufacturing was actually one of our top two industries for many, many years. And I believe that we can become that once again, moving forward with all of you.”

Vinny LaRocca, chief technical officer at Tetra, an AI software innovation firm, said he thinks about AI as a modular library of capabilities that can be deployed at various companies.

“A good example is in machine maintenance. You may have a spreadsheet that you’re doing work orders on. In that case, you probably need a ticketing system. And we can deliver an AI agent to help you with root cause analysis and corrective action of all of your maintenance systems,” he explained. “So as soon as something happens, you get step-by-step instructions on what to actually do to fix the problem.”

Scott Longley, a manufacturing expert in residence for FORGE, told the attendees that they likely came because they have an idea about what AI is and how they can use it — and want to know what the next steps are.

“The reason why we have our panelists here is they’ve taken that first step on that journey. These are people who’ve had the courage to reach out and begin to figure out how they can use it, and they’re starting to use it to their benefit,” he said. “We always talk about how it’s a great wave coming of AI, but these are actually people who are starting to build that foundation. And I think we all need to realize that that foundation starts locally.

Gavin Giguere of REIGN Manufacturing speaks with attendees at a breakout session.

Gavin Giguere of REIGN Manufacturing speaks with attendees at a breakout session.

“We have all the tools in this community we need to build a great foundation for future growth,” Longley added. “These are people who have been courageous enough to reach into that toolbox and figure out how to use those tools. Our goal today is to get you to hang out with them and find out if what they’re doing can actually help you.”

 

Continuing the Conversation

As noted, BusinessWest’s new Strategy+Ai series will be presented quarterly, each event focusing on a different sector, Associate Publisher Kate Campiti said.

“For the first, we wanted to bring the manufacturing community together to learn about some of these AI strategies. We’re going to be focusing in May on professional and financial services, in August on construction and building trades, and in November on nonprofits.”

The assembled guests on March 26 certainly see value in continuing the conversation about a technology that isn’t going away — that, in fact, poses risks for businesses who choose to ignore its potential.

Aaron Vega, president of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, noted that he is the only representative from Western Mass. serving on Gov. Maura Healey’s Massachusetts Competitiveness Council — and he constantly touts this region as a potential hub for fledgling businesses to grow and innovate in evolving technologies, including AI.

“It’s not easy doing business in general. It’s not easy doing business in Massachusetts. There are some headwinds,” he said. “There are a lot of advantages to doing business in Massachusetts, but we know that you’re being courted by other states, and we appreciate that you’re staying here. And we’re trying to build a better ecosystem and support system for you.”

State Rep. Orlando Ramos added that “it’s always great to be in a room with people who don’t just talk about the future, but people who are actively building for the future.

“Manufacturing was actually one of our top two industries for many, many years. And I believe that we can become that once again, moving forward with all of you. So I encourage you all to continue doing what you’re doing. This is the perfect place for this to be taking place,” he went on. “Continue to innovate, continue to believe in yourselves, continue to build, and continue to prepare for the future.”

 

The inaugural edition of BusinessWest’s new Strategy+Ai series featured presentations, breakout sessions, and plenty of networking (Staff Photos): 

 

 

Area Mental Health Organizations Tackle Growing Community Demand

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Lois Nesci says Gándara Center has its finger on the pulse of where regional mental health needs exist, and strives to meet them through a broad array of programs.
Healthcare News Special Coverage

Mindful Approach

Lois Nesci says Gándara Center has its finger on the pulse of where regional mental health needs exist, and strives to meet them through a broad array of programs.

Lois Nesci says Gándara Center has its finger on the pulse of where regional mental health needs exist, and strives to meet them through a broad array of programs.

 

When Shelley Zimmerman arrived at MiraVista Behavioral Health Center in Holyoke in 2023, the facility had 56 inpatient adult beds.

Now, with the opening of 10 new beds only a few weeks ago, there are 98 in all, including 16 for adolescents.

“We’re planning for more in the future,” said Zimmerman, MiraVista’s hospital administrator. “Of those 98 beds, I’m running 95% full every single day. We’re full all the time.”

The reason is simple. “Across the region, we’re seeing sustained demand outpacing inpatient behavioral health capacity, particularly for high-acuity or dual-diagnosed patients. So length of stays are being extended due to that. And emergency departments are kind of a bottleneck. My background is as an emergency room nurse, so I understand what that’s like for patients and for the hospital system; it reinforces the need to expand beds.”

Larger behavioral health organizations are seeing similar needs and responding accordingly. Lois Nesci, CEO of Springfield-based Gándara Mental Health Center, recently spoke with BusinessWest about that growing health system, which now boasts 70 different locations with 1,100 staff serving 18,000 people statewide.

“We look at that all the time — we look at where is the need, do we have the expertise to offer something, where is it in the geographical area, and do we have the capacity?”

“We’re very fortunate to have this kind of presence and the ability to offer services,” she said — and those services are broad. They include:

• Behavioral health, which encompasses a broad array of clinical and substance use services for adults, families, children, and adolescents, including individual and group psychotherapy, diagnostic assessments, and treatment;

• Youth, young adult, and family services, including children’s behavioral health, foster care, and youth and young adult residential ​homes;

• Substance use and recovery, with services include recovery coaching, peer recovery centers, and long-term residential treatment for men, women, and young adults with substance use disorder and co-occurring mental health disorders;

• Community and prevention, including health education programs and initiatives that provide resources and information addressing numerous public health areas while representing the multicultural needs of the region; and

• Intellectual and developmental disability services, which promote the health and well-being of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and those with behavioral health and/or substance use disorders.

“We have our finger on the pulse. We know where the needs exist,” Nesci said, noting that some of this is anecdotal data from program participants themselves, while Gándara also works with the state and other entities to determine where the gaps are, and strive to fill them.

SHELLEY ZIMMERMAN

Shelley Zimmerman

“Across the region, we’re seeing sustained demand outpacing inpatient behavioral health capacity, particularly for high-acuity or dual-diagnosed patients.”

“We look at that all the time — we look at where is the need, do we have the expertise to offer something, where is it in the geographical area, and do we have the capacity?”

Take the organization’s residential recovery services, which include seven transitional homes across the state, soon to be eight with one coming online in South Hadley.

“The homes are designed to help individuals who are getting ready to transition into the community to have a place to live, be able to secure employment and housing, and maintain their sobriety before they move back into the community,” Nesci said.

Cutchins Programs for Children and Families in Northampton is another regional mental health organization evolving with growing need. It recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the first floor of its Children’s Clinic, an expansion that increases access to outpatient mental healthcare for children and families in Western Mass.

Meanwhile, Springfield-based Behavioral Health Network (BHN) continues to add programs to meet growing needs. For example, in January, it launched a Family-based Intensive Treatment (FIT) program, which expands the organization’s commitment to delivering behavioral healthcare to children, youth, and families through a community-centered approach.

The FIT program helps families in crisis to stabilize by providing intensive, home-based support. Each family is supported by a dedicated team that provides clinical support, 24/7 availability, and peer support from someone with lived experience. The team teaches practical skills to help children thrive at home and connects families with community resources for long-term success.

MICHELLE MICHAELIAN

Michelle Michaelian

“FIT expands the continuum of care within BHN’s child and family programs, ensuring families receive intensive, home-based support when they need it most. These programs reflect our commitment to building stronger, healthier communities.”

“FIT expands the continuum of care within BHN’s child and family programs, ensuring families receive intensive, home-based support when they need it most,” said Michelle Michaelian, senior vice president of Child and Family Community-Based Programs. “These programs reflect our commitment to building stronger, healthier communities.”

 

On the Front Lines

At MiraVista, Zimmerman said, services for adults and adolescents range from inpatient psychiatric treatment to outpatient substance abuse services. Its direct admission model allows patients to be admitted directly, often from outpatient resources and community mental health crisis centers.

“It eliminates some of that bottlenecking that I mentioned that happens in the emergency room. It reduces delays, and it lowers stress for patients and families,” she explained. “We’re the subject matter experts, essentially. When patients come to us for care, they experience care that’s therapeutic and patient-centered. An ER is a very difficult place for someone in a mental health crisis.”

But to provide that care effectively, organizations need to provide appropriate levels of staffing, and that can be a hurdle. Zimmerman understands the challenges of being a behavioral health nurse, but she also touts the personal rewards.

“It’s very gratifying to help someone go from their very lowest to stable and able to function and be part of society again,” she told BusinessWest, adding that there’s an intuitive quality that comes into play when diagnosing and treating this population — one that people at home don’t really have.

“We understand if someone has a cardiac issue; we understand if someone has diabetes; we don’t seem to understand mental health,” she said. “It takes intuition, it takes compassion, it takes care to help these patients, and an understanding of mental health and what that looks like. So they come in at their worst, at their lowest, and then you get to support them, lift them up, and help get them back so that they can function and integrate with their families, with their jobs, with their lives.”

One of the biggest challenges of the job is being able to handle both physical and mental wellness, as many patients have co-morbid conditions, Zimmerman added. Meanwhile, the reasons professionals choose this path vary.

“A lot of times, folks are drawn to this aspect of nursing because they have a family member that suffered with mental health, or they have a loved one that tried to commit suicide, or a friend.”

And adolescents are dealing with more pressures today than in years past because of how technology and social media have turned peer pressure and bullying into a 24/7 experience.

“Kids don’t know how to handle that. And it can be very upsetting for a parent if a child is starting to become reclusive, maybe not eating as much, doesn’t want to go to school because there’s cyberbullying stuff that’s going on, the social media stuff. We help our staff understand what those things are, how they impact our patients, and then how they can help our patients.”

For both adults and young people, she added, there remains some stigma around seeking mental healthcare, though conversations are more open and frequent than they were decades ago.

“People are hesitant to tell their jobs if they need time off to seek treatment. And they’re hesitant to seek that treatment, whether it’s for addiction services or mental health,” Zimmerman said. “I think it’s getting better, but there’s a lot of opportunity for more global understanding of how mental health affects your total person. I tell our team here all the time, ‘mental health doesn’t discriminate, and neither do we.’ And by that I mean, it can be your neighbor, it can be your pastor, it can be your grandma, it can be a famous athlete, it can be your mother, it can be anybody. It could be you.”

“It’s very gratifying to help someone go from their very lowest to stable and able to function and be part of society again.”

Nesci also said she has seen more willingness from people to either self-identify or say a family member needs help.

“People who know that I work in this industry often ask me, ‘how can I help my friend, my nephew, my niece, my sister, my brother?’ So people talk about it. Years ago, it was never spoken of. I think we’ve come a really long way.

“At the same time, there’s a lot of bias that still exists because people make judgments about the people we serve — the way they look, the way they dress, the language they speak, whether they’re employed, all that stuff,” she added. “So we still have a long way to go.”

 

Changing Lives

As it approaches its 50th anniversary next year, Gándara continues to add programs and services where it sees a need. For instance, a few years ago, it invested in transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-traditional method of managing depression for patients who have not been successful with other modalities.

“Substance use is another big need,” Nesci said. “More and more people are identifying as having that as a major issue or stressor in their lives. So we need people where they’re at, which is why we’re providing recovery coaching services to people in the community.”

As Zimmerman noted earlier, a lot of this capacity building comes down to staffing. “Staff is our greatest resource — without staff, we can’t provide the services,” Nesci added. “So I have a great team that is focused on hiring and retaining people.”

In the end, meeting these critical needs in the community, especially at a time of such demand, is challenging work to be sure, but can also be tremendously rewarding.

“I believe that people have the ability to change behavior, and I have a team that believes the same thing,” Nesci said. “That’s what I find most gratifying — when we hear the stories of people who have gone through our program. That’s really heartwarming.”

Amherst Strives to Take Advantage of Its Many Assets

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Jeff Bagg says Amherst is well-stocked with assets as it goes about competing with other area communities for the dollars spent by visitors.
Community Spotlight Special Coverage

Community Spotlight

Jeff Bagg says Amherst is well-stocked with assets as it goes about competing with other area communities for the dollars spent by visitors.

Jeff Bagg says Amherst is well-stocked with assets as it goes about competing with other area communities for the dollars spent by visitors.

Jeff Bagg says he’s come full circle. Sort of.

He graduated from UMass Amherst back in 2002 and then worked for the town of Amherst as senior planner from 2008 to 2016. But now, after gaining different types of experience in various settings, he’s back in Town Hall, serving as director of Planning & Economic Development, a melding of two roles.

He started in December and has spent the past four months getting reacquainted with a community that is in a seemingly constant state of motion, but with challenges and opportunities that have been present for decades.

“I knew a lot about the town of Amherst, but it had been 10 years since I last worked there, so there was a learning curve,” said Bagg, who is involved in several initiatives at present, from a project to set new design standards for the downtown to a study of the East Amherst area with an eye toward creating core commercial development opportunities, to the collection of data to be used in creation of the town’s first economic development plan in several years.

“What we have available is pre-pandemic, and there have been really big shifts in the way people spend their money,” he said of that last initiative. “Knowing that businesses need a strong customer base and foot traffic, we really need to figure out ways to bring more residents out and visitors in, and the data drives a lot of that.”

“Knowing that businesses need a strong customer base and foot traffic, we really need to figure out ways to bring more residents out and visitors in, and the data drives a lot of that.”

These are just some of the many converging storylines in Amherst, a community that those we spoke with said is a college town, but so much more. Others include:

• Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, which continues to grow membership and become ever more diverse — Executive Director Jacob Robinson said the chamber added 57 new members in 2025, roughly double the number welcomed in 2023 and the years prior — and build new events into the schedule, including a revitalized business expo;

• A Business Improvement District (BID) that is working with the chamber and individual businesses to make the community a true destination year round;

• The ongoing success story that is the Drake, a downtown live-performance venue that is planning 200 nights of performances for 2026 involving 500 artists from both the 413 and around the globe and more than 33,000 audience members, many of whom will support other hospitality-related businesses before and after those shows;

• The ongoing saga of Hampshire College, which has been fighting for survival in recent years amid declining enrollment and continuing fiscal hardship. That fight took a new twist recently when the New England Commission of Higher Education announced late last month that it will require the school to show cause in June as to why it shouldn’t be placed on probation or have its accreditation withdrawn over concerns the college may no longer be meeting the organization’s institutional resources standard; and

• Continued evolution of the community’s downtown, including several new businesses, the owners of which told BusinessWest there is a rhythm to the downtown, one dictated by the calendar, which takes some getting used to (much more on this later).

For this latest installment of its Community Spotlight series, we take an in-depth look at one of the more intriguing communities in the region — one marked by learning of all types.

 

Developing Story

Bagg brings a diverse résumé to his new position in Amherst. Indeed, after his stint as senior planner there, he served as project manager for the Central Massachusetts Regional Planning Commission before beginning what would become a six-year stint as director of Planning and Economic Development in Easthampton and then serving as senior planner for the BSC Group in Worcester.

He described his new role as a “good fit” and an opportunity to return to the public sector — in a community where change is a constant.

“I’ve been working in many different communities in Massachusetts, and more and more towns have increased their efforts to attract visitors; it’s an intense competition for people’s time and limited disposable income.”

Like others we spoke with, he said Amherst has both a number of assets and … let’s call them liabilities.

In that first category, he started with the obvious, the three colleges that provide the community with its distinct flavor — Amherst College, UMass Amherst, and Hampshire College — but also its many cultural attractions, ranging from the Emily Dickinson Museum and the Eric Carle Museum to the Drake and Amherst Cinema, which make it more than your typical college down.

John Page says downtown Amherst is in a seemingly constant state of change and is always welcoming new businesses.

John Page says downtown Amherst is in a seemingly constant state of change and is always welcoming new businesses.

On the downside, this can be a difficult town to do business in, and Bagg acknowledged this with a comment intended to be diplomatic.

“We have a very engaged community, but there is some lack of agreement on where new growth should happen. Amherst struggles with its vision for the future and an identity that we can get most people to agree to,” he said, adding that town officials are making it a priority to make it easier to do business in town, such as with the hiring of a permit administrator to facilitate the process of setting up shop there.

Which brings him back to the economic development plan, and the collection of data that will help drive it.

“What we don’t have a good handle on is where people are spending their money — we don’t know where residents are spending their money, we don’t know where visitors spend their money when they come here, and how all that relates to demographics — population changes, the age of people coming and going, those are factors for what’s going to drive new businesses in Amherst, and we don’t really have a handle on that.

“I’ve been working in many different communities in Massachusetts, and more and more towns have increased their efforts to attract visitors; it’s an intense competition for people’s time and limited disposable income,” he went on, adding that this competition is one of myriad factors that will go into the development of an economic development plan over the next year or so.

Overall, the community is well-suited to succeed in this competition to attract visitors, said John Page, executive director of the Amherst BID, adding that there is already plenty to do in town — such as the recent Fire and Ice Winter Festival, which drew more than 2,000 people — and plans to provide more good reasons to make the trip.

That list includes the Amherst Literary Walk on April 11, a day of literary events throughout the downtown, including readings, workshops, literary trivia, and more, said Page, adding that one of the BID’s broad goals is to get people out and have them experience Amherst.

Another is to help bring new businesses to town and create an environment that will enable them to succeed year-round. Like others we spoke with, Page said Amherst has some unique assets, but especially the colleges and the people who go there to learn and to work.

“We have to keep showing up for these businesses that give this place its identity. These are not just storefronts — they create jobs, they build relationships, and they shape the character of the community.”

“There is this youthfulness,” he said, speaking to the environment created by the melding of the higher learning institutions and the omnipresent arts and culture. “You’ve got bands, you have artists of all ages, and a college town both because of the students and the faculty. There’s this appreciation for arts and culture — we have a lot of museums and a lot of live music going on, and that goes hand-in-hand with a college community, and that helps us out even when the students aren’t here because that reputation is great in the summer, when we want to invite other people to join us from across Massachusetts, across New England, and across the world.”

Robinson agreed, noting that the chamber is committed to promoting and supporting the downtown, but other ‘villages’ in the community as well, such as the Mill District in North Amherst and the South Amherst section of town.

“We have to keep showing up for these businesses that give this place its identity,” he said, summing up the chamber’s mission. “These are not just storefronts — they create jobs, they build relationships, and they shape the character of the community.”

 

What’s in Store

As she spoke with BusinessWest, Becky Guyer was gearing up for Easter, but also a very busy three-month stretch that includes Mother’s Day, college and high school graduations, some weddings, and other events that require flowers.

She can speak from experience about what this time means for her Floral Affairs shop in downtown Greenfield. But the one she opened last July on North Pleasant Street in Amherst … not so much.

Indeed, Guyer said she is still experiencing a learning curve when it comes to doing business in downtown Amherst. She was invited to look at the North Pleasant location, long a flower shop, at the behest of the building’s owner, who thought she might be interested in opening a second location there.

Amherst at a Glance

Year Incorporated: 1759
Population: 39,263
Area: 27.7 square miles
County: Hampshire
Residential Tax Rate: $16.91
Commercial Tax Rate: $16.91
Median Household Income: $48,059
Median Family Income: $96,005
Type of Government: Town Council, Town Manager
Largest Employers: UMass Amherst; Amherst College; Hampshire College
* Latest information available

After some due diligence, she determined that she was.

“I thought that this could be a good opportunity — this is a college town, there are some venues in town, some that we already do weddings with, as well as UMass events and Amherst College events,” she said, adding that the location was also across the street from a funeral home, which, in the floral world, is a real benefit.

“There were a lot of positives,” she went on, adding that the storefront, which had to be completely gutted, wasn’t one of them. But she moved forward with confidence, has found the move worthwhile, and has high praise for the chamber and the BID. But there has been a learning curve as she adapts to life in a college town.

“When the college kids leave … it was the worst Christmas I’ve ever seen in my life — so much so that it’s made us completely restructure our game plan,” she told BusinessWest. “I don’t necessarily have a designer in Amherst — it’s meant for convenience; all orders get run out of Greenfield, and we’ve made this location more of a convenience store.”

Overall, the downtown Amherst location is a work in progress, she said, adding that she is learning the cadence, if you will, of this college town, and the nuances of the calendar. Christmas was a letdown, and she’s not sure what to expect this summer, but she is optimistic about the upcoming few months and what they could bring, and the location itself.

“The walk-up traffic is fantastic — there’s a young, growing community there that comes in quite a bit,” she said. “There are a lot of $10, $15, and $20 sales, which is great.”

Andrea Marion is also getting used to the rhythm of Amherst’s downtown. She moved the Closet from a location in the Mill District to a storefront (a former restaurant) on Main Street last fall. She enjoyed the Mill District atmosphere but said there is more foot traffic in the downtown, and that suits her operation.

She described her business as a “curated resale boutique,” and herself as a “fashion concierge.”

“I hand-pick every piece that comes into the store — I don’t do consignment, generally, and I try to make sure I have something for everyone … I sell for all genders and all sizes,” said Marion, a nonprofit manager before she went into business for herself, adding that, while many items would be described as high-end (Fendi, Givenchy, and Prada handbags, for example), she has items at all price points.

Like Guyer, Marion said it takes some time to get used to the patterns of the downtown, especially when it comes to the students’ schedules, but overall, she says the area is becoming ever more vibrant and remains a good place to do business.

“There’s a lot of energy and activity,” she said, adding that she is accessible to more people now, which has broadened the customer base and made it more diverse, especially age-wise. “Amherst’s downtown has so much potential, and I’m really happy to be here.”

GCC to Present Intergenerational Film Festival Showcasing Cyber-Seniors Program

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Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Community College (GCC) will culminate this year’s Cyber-Seniors program with an inspiring Intergenerational Film Festival featuring original short films created by local youth and older adults. The event will take place on Thursday, April 23 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the GCC Dining Commons.

The Cyber-Seniors project brings together older adults and young people in an intergenerational volunteer model, through which youth provide technology training and support while building meaningful relationships. Over the course of the program, participants collaborate to create short YouTube films that highlight shared interests, personal stories, and creative exploration.

This year, local youth, including GCC students, paired with older adults from the region to produce a series of heartfelt and engaging films that will debut at the festival.

The event will feature a community dinner and a talk-back session, where participants will reflect on the creative process and the bonds and friendships that developed throughout the experience.

“This program continues to demonstrate the powerful connections that can form across generations,” said Associate Dean for Community Engagement Judy Raper, who oversees the initiative. “It’s incredibly moving to see how these partnerships grow into meaningful relationships while also building valuable digital skills.”

Participants echoed this sentiment, noting that the project offers both creative inspiration and personal connection, often taking them outside their comfort zones while fostering joy and mutual learning.

The Intergenerational Film Festival is free and open to the public, and all are encouraged to attend. A complimentary community meal will be provided. Advance registration is requested. Click here to register.

This program is made possible through support from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs and in partnership with Greenfield Senior Center.

State Awards $247,000 to Help Adults Transition to College, Develop Workforce Skills

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Daily News

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced it awarded $247,000 in Bridges to College grants to five community colleges and a healthcare staffing agency to help nearly 200 adult learners strengthen their academic skills and successfully transition into higher education and career training programs.

The Bridges to College Program supports community colleges and organizations that prioritize helping adult, low-income, and entry-level workers overcome obstacles that may prevent them from completing their degree and launching in-demand careers.

“Every Massachusetts resident deserves the opportunity to continue their education and build a better future for themselves and their families,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “These Bridges to College grants are making it easier for adult learners in the state to get back into the classroom and earn a degree by helping remove barriers, strengthen pathways to college, and create opportunities for Massachusetts residents looking for economic and career growth.”

The Bridges to College Program builds on efforts by the administration to help more students access college while boosting the state’s workforce and competitiveness. Working with the Legislature, Healey has doubled state funding for financial aid programs, including offering free tuition and fees to Pell Grant-eligible students at all public two- and four-year colleges and making community college free regardless of income level. Data from the first two years of MassReconnect show consecutive year-over-year enrollment growth of adult learners ages 25 and older, a growth of 20,000 adult learners alone over two years.

In October, the administration awarded $1.5 million in Training Resources and Internships Network (TRAIN) grants to provide essential training opportunities to more than 500 unemployed and underemployed residents. Massachusetts also recently launched a partnership with ReUp Education to bring adult learners who previously began, but did not complete, degrees and certificates at the state’s public colleges and universities back to college.

Two of the six grant awardees are in Western Mass.:

• Caring Medical Staffing, Springfield ($50,000): The Healthcare Workforce & College Transition Pathway is a comprehensive program designed to prepare learners for immediate employment in the healthcare field while creating a bridge to post-secondary education. Students will earn their certified nurse assistant certificate, CPR and first aid certificate, dementia certificate, and home health aid certification.

• Holyoke Community College ($40,524): In partnership with Western Mass CORE, HCC will develop enhanced college and career preparation modules to address key challenges that face adults seeking access to college and workforce programs.

Rachel’s Table to Host Outrun Hunger Event on May 17

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts, a food rescue and hunger alleviation organization, is set to Outrun Hunger in its biennial 5K race and 1-mile family-friendly walk in Forest Park on Sunday, May 17. The event begins welcome announcements at 8:30 a.m. and a 9 a.m. race start. Click here to register. Fees increase on May 1.

The proceeds from the race go to fight hunger all year long, with programs that feed the immediate need as well as nourish long-term sustainable food secure solutions.

The race/walk is also presented by the Rachel’s Table teen board, a youth leadership part of Rachel’s Table whose mission is to educate themselves and others about food insecurity while serving the local community with impactful projects that help fight hunger.

The public is invited to register to run, walk, do a virtual run, or just come by to help raise awareness and make a difference. All registered runners and walkers will be able to visit the Zoo at Forest Park and Education Center for free on race day, sponsored by the Zoo at Forest Park and supported by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts.

Boomer from the Springfield Thunderbirds will be in attendance, and DJ Matt Peterson will get attendees moving with fun music and entertainment. Local legislators have been invited to speak as well; State Sens. Oliveira and Adam Gomez and state Reps. Brian Ashe and Carlos Gonzales will be in attendance.

Hunger has increased in Western Mass. In Hampden County, 54% of households report food insecurity, while in Franklin and Hampshire County, it is 50%.

Outrun Hunger sponsors can be viewed at feedwma.org/outrun-hunger-2026-sponsors. Top-level sponsors include PeoplesBank, Arbella Insurance Foundation, Westfield Bank, PV Financial, and more.

HCC Opens Registration for Summer, Fall Classes

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Registration is now open for summer and fall classes at Holyoke Community College (HCC).

Summer classes at HCC begin Tuesday, May 26. Full-term summer classes run for 14 weeks, from May 26 to Aug. 28. Half-term summer classes run in consecutive seven-week sessions: Summer Session I (May 26 to July 10) and Summer Session II (July 13 to Aug. 28).

The fall 2026 semester starts Tuesday, Sept. 8. In addition to traditional 15-week semester classes, HCC will run three accelerated fall flex start sessions: Flex Start I classes also begin Sept. 8 but run for seven weeks until Oct. 27; Flex Start II classes begin Monday, Sept. 21 and run for 12 weeks; and Flex Start III classes begin Monday, Nov. 2 and run for seven weeks. All fall classes conclude by Dec. 22.

To view course offerings, visit hcc.edu/summer-2026 for summer or hcc.edu/fall-2026 for fall.

To help prospective students get ready, HCC will host a Walk-In Week May 18-21 when prospective students can apply for admission, take the college placement test, meet with an academic adviser, register for classes, and set up financial aid. Other Walk-In Weeks are scheduled for June 22-25, July 20-23, and Aug. 17-20.

“Our admissions and financial aid staff members are always available to help guide prospective students through every step of the application process and apply for financial aid,” said Mark Hudgik, dean of Recruitment, Admissions and Financial Aid.

Anyone interested in starting this summer or fall can find more information at hcc.edu/admission or by calling (413) 552-2321. To arrange a campus tour, email the HCC Admissions office at [email protected].

Women’s Money Matters Expands Financial Wellness Programs in Region

By
Daily News

BOSTON — In Western and Central Mass., poverty rates in cities like Springfield, Holyoke, and Worcester run roughly double the state average, leaving women and girls living on low incomes with limited access to the financial wellness education that can set them on a path toward economic stability.

Women’s Money Matters (WMM) is changing that. The Massachusetts-based nonprofit, which has spent 15 years building the financial wellness, confidence, and security of women and girls living on low incomes, is bringing its programs to the region for the first time with dedicated, in-person programming.

“Women and girls in Western and Central Massachusetts face the same economic pressures as those we’ve been reaching for 15 years in Greater Boston, but without the same access to resources and support,” said Carla Poulos, associate director of Programs and Advocacy at Women’s Money Matters. “Financial wellness isn’t a Boston issue. It’s a statewide issue, and every woman and girl deserves the tools, coaching, and community to build a secure future, no matter where she lives.”

WMM’s expansion brings two of its core financial wellness programs to the region: Financial Futures, its signature three-month program for women living on low incomes, and Life Launch, its financial wellness program for girls and young women ages 8-24. Both programs combine financial health workshops, peer cohorts, and one-to-one coaching to give participants the knowledge, skills, and confidence to manage money, set goals, and plan for their futures.

WMM’s Financial Futures financial wellness program delivers measurable results. Graduates have increased their savings by 254% on average, raised their monthly income by 26%, and improved their credit scores by 40 points or more on average. By graduation, 96% feel confident managing their finances, and 100% report using a budget to manage expenses, up from 20% at program start.

WMM has hired staff based in Springfield to build local relationships and support program delivery across the region. Early program partnerships are already underway, including programming with Framingham Public Schools. WMM is actively cultivating additional partnerships across the region, with further prospecting underway at local youth centers and housing authorities.

Until now, only about 3% of WMM participants resided in Western and Central Mass. By FY 2027, WMM aims to reach 20% of all participants from these regions.

As WMM deepens its presence in Western and Central Mass., the organization is actively seeking individuals and organizations to join in this work. Opportunities include volunteering as a financial wellness coach, presenting a workshop on a financial topic, or partnering to bring Life Launch to a school, youth program, or social service agency. Organizations interested in hosting a cohort or referring participants are encouraged to reach out.

Those interested in getting involved are invited to attend an upcoming virtual information session on Tuesday, April 14 from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. The session is an opportunity to learn more about WMM’s financial wellness programs, how coaching works, and how individuals and organizations can get involved. To register or learn more, visit womensmoneymatters.org or email [email protected].

Greylock Federal Credit Union Awards $100,000 in Gifts to Nonprofits

By
Daily News

PITTSFIELD — As part of its ongoing commitment and support of community partners, Greylock Federal Credit Union is awarding 10 nonprofits with gifts of $10,000 each, totaling a $100,000 contribution to the nonprofit sector.

The recipients include Elder Services of Berkshire County, Louison House, Childcare of the Berkshires, Volunteers in Medicine Berkshires (VIM), Arts in Recovery for Youth (AIRY), Soldier On, Greater Hudson Promise Neighborhood, Our Community Table, UCP of Western Massachusetts, and Berkshire Pride.

“At Greylock, we know that the challenges and opportunities that we face are larger than we can tackle on our own, and we are grateful to have wonderful partners,” John Bissell, president and CEO. “Together we can nurture the health of our local economy and community — that’s what it means to be financially inclusive. We invest in these partner organizations so they can do their work investing in the people of our community.”

In light of current events, Greylock’s leadership recognized the importance of awarding funds to organizations dedicated to providing human services.

“We know that this year and next will be extremely challenging for nonprofits,” said Jamie Moncecchi, senior vice president, chief administrative officer. “We know that this award will be put to good use, providing essential resources, care, and support for the well-being of our community.”

Ilana Steinhauer, executive director of VIM, acknowledged current challenges. “This generous support from Greylock comes at a critical moment,” she said. “It allows us to respond to emerging needs and ensure that patients who might otherwise fall through the cracks can continue to access high-quality care. Greylock has been an important partner in strengthening the health of our community, and this gift reflects a shared commitment to care without compromise.”

Each year, Greylock gives charitable contributions to more than 300 501(c)(3) nonprofits that apply for grants and sponsorships annually.

“We are so thankful for all our nonprofits in our community. We know the needs are growing rapidly,” said Jennifer Connor Shumsky, assistant vice president, Community Support & Events. “To have more funding to disperse is fantastic. I am so grateful that we’ve been able to give an additional gift to help our local economy.”

Amy Hall, president and CEO of Child Care of the Berkshires, was delighted to receive the unexpected gift from Greylock. “What a wonderful surprise,” she said. “This support will make a meaningful difference in our ability to serve and strengthen families through our Family Center program. Thank you.”

Investing in community partnerships aligns closely with Greylock’s vision to be “the face of financial inclusion for the communities we serve,” and its values to care, educate, and inspire.

“I am so proud of the work we do here at Greylock,” Moncecchi said. “Supporting these vital organizations is key to supporting the Berkshires. Whether it’s AIRY helping youth at risk of suicide or Elder Services making sure our seniors have a hot meal each day or VIM caring for our immigrant neighbors, we believe strongly in giving back. This is one of the most powerful ways that Greylock can help the people of our community.”

Elms College to Showcase Student Internships on May 1

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — Elms College students will showcase their real-world experiences gained through internships, research, service work, and travel opportunities at the annual Experiential Learning Showcase on Friday, May 1 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students participate in these experiences through the Elms Experiential Learning Pathway, which is designed to deepen learning through real-world experiences.

The event opens in the Keating Quadrangle, with sessions following in the Mary Dooley College Center & Alumnae Library, and the closing in the Borgia Gallery on the second floor of the Mary Dooley College Center. This program is open to all, with no need to register.

Experiential learning is widely recognized as an educational practice that enhances student success and career outcomes. Through the Elms Experiential Learning Pathway, students participate in international travel, volunteer work, mission trips, ethical leadership, research, internships, and more. These invaluable experiences help students build their résumés before graduation, with a diverse set of bullet points that highlight experiences beyond the classroom.

“With over 300 students presenting this year, the Experiential Learning Showcase is a chance for the Elms Community and beyond to see what Elms College students have accomplished,” said Jennifer Granger-Sullivan, director of Experiential Learning at Elms College. “These students have had experiential learning opportunities locally and internationally, and the showcase will celebrate these achievements.”

At Elms College, 98% of the class of 2025 participated in internships, research, and service opportunities. Scholarships are available for students who participate in these opportunities with support from Regina Noonan Hitchery ’71, Eileen Mazza Mendrek ’64, and Richard Meelia.

An Inspiring Story of Business Survival

By
Opinion

Editorial

 

There are many positive aspects to the story (on page 4) about how Rick’s Auto Body will live on after the death of its founder and inspiration, Rick Recor, and remain part of the local landscape.

Indeed, the passing of a company’s founder often means the passing of a company because that founder was the business, and there was not a plan in place for succession. In this case, there was.

And that plan entailed the very best aspect of this story — that Rick’s will not only live on, but it will be local, and it will be independent — still family-owned and operated, to be more specific.

This, at a time when so many businesses, many of them small to mid-sized, are being snatched up by venture capital-backed companies and private equity firms as part of comprehensive roll-up strategies that are changing the face of business communities across the country.

We’ve seen it with a wide range of sectors, from insurance agencies to IT; from legal services to, yes, auto body repair shops. The strategy is simple: buy up as many of these companies as you can, take full advantage of the economies of scale, make a lot of money, and then, when the time is right, cash out.

These companies are throwing what some would call ‘stupid money’ at small business owners, many of them nearing retirement age, making it very difficult for them to say no.

But they when they say yes — and who can blame them, really — they’re doing more than selling their business to an interested party. They’re changing the dynamic of the local business community by taking more local businesses out of the equation.

And, as we all know, locally owned businesses usually … care more.

They care more about the customer, and they care more about the community than regional and national interests who are out to maximize profits by becoming ever larger.

We’ve seen this across the broad spectrum of business, from funeral home operators to banks (generally, the larger, more national they are, the less they are involved with area causes and nonprofits) to convenience store chains; indeed, the Pride chain was a powerful force in the region when it was locally owned. Now, it’s much less so.

All of this brings us back to Rick’s.

Recor’s widow, Mari Tarpinian, told BusinessWest that, over the years, the company received countless calls from larger entities making super attractive offers to make Rick’s part of their fold.

Had Recor or Tarpinian said yes to any these offers, there’s a good chance the ‘Rick’s’ name would have stayed over the door, but it would not have been the same company. It would have been part of a larger entity that, in all likelihood, would have cared less about local customers and local causes than the company Recor started more than 50 years ago.

Rick’s will remain local because there was a plan in place. And there’s a lesson there. Area businesses, especially smaller entities, need to have similar succession plans in place. Creating such a plan isn’t easy — it involves sometimes difficult discussions and hard decisions — but the lack of a plan often leads to more chaotic endings when founders retire or pass away, and this often leads to more … let’s call it panic selling.

That didn’t happen with Rick’s, and we’re glad it didn’t. This region needs more stories of succession, stories of survival, like this one.

Onboarding Gen Z with Purpose

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Sam Borsari

HR professionals understand how critical the first 90 days are for a new hire. A thoughtful onboarding experience can make a significant impact on retention and long-term success. This is especially true for Gen Z employees.

To better understand how employers can improve their onboarding approach, I turned to LinkedIn and my own personal network. Going straight to the source, I asked current Gen Z workers to share their onboarding experiences thus far: what worked, what didn’t, and what helped them get up to speed quickly.

Here’s what they think are the key components of a successful onboarding process for Gen Z new hires.

Intentional introductions. Gen Z values having relationships with their teams and colleagues. However, this can be intimidating for someone who is new to the workforce and doesn’t yet understand workplace dynamics, especially when interacting with more senior employees. Having scheduled sit-downs with people across departments (built into the onboarding schedule) can ease that tension, support introductions, and help the new hire feel valued and welcomed right off the bat. It also gives Gen Z employees a clearer understanding of the organizational structure and key players.

Open door policy. For many Gen Z new hires, you may be their first full-time employer out of college. They are going to have questions, especially if they care about doing the job well and growing in their career. Knowing that the company has an open door policy gives them a safe space to learn, make mistakes, bring new ideas to the table, and adjust more quickly. It also helps them feel less isolated if they are struggling because they know they have a support system. Encouraging them to come to you with questions, concerns, or even just to talk things through can make a big difference.

Mentorships and shadowing. Having dedicated one-on-one time with a seasoned employee (particularly someone in their department or role) was also mentioned as a major factor in onboarding success. Starting a new role comes with a lot of information. You are learning the job functions, culture dynamics, daily processes, etc. It can be overwhelming, especially for someone new to the workforce. Having someone to shadow during the first few weeks helps ease that transition and gets them up to speed faster. Shadowing allows the new hire to see the role in action. They can observe how situations are handled, ask questions in real time, and better understand decision making.

Constant feedback and check-ins. This goes without saying, but Gen Z strongly values frequent feedback. Regular check-ins help them understand where they are doing well and where they can improve. This is especially important early on, when they are still in the learning process. Ongoing feedback provides direction, builds confidence, and reinforces that they are on the right track. It also shows that there is support behind them as they learn the role.

No assumptions. Gen Z, like any emerging generation, faces numerous stereotypes and assumptions on things like presumed work habits. It’s important not to lean into those. Instead, ask your new hires how they learn best. If you want them to adapt quickly, think about how you can provide the right tools and support during their onboarding process. Do they learn best hands-on, through shadowing, or through more structured training?

While you don’t need to completely change your onboarding process for your Gen Z hires, it’s important to recognize that even small adjustments can make a meaningful difference in how quickly they adapt, build confidence, and adjust to your organization.

 

Sam Borsari is a member experience specialist at the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast. This article first appeared on the EANE blog; eane.org

Picture This

By
Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country.
Picture This

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

 

Landmark Medical Mission

Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country. ERCP is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat complex biliary diseases. Prior to this training, patients in Ghana with these conditions faced no alternative but invasive surgery, which is a far riskier path. By equipping local gastroenterologists with this advanced technique, Zakharia’s mission created an immediate and lasting impact on patient care across the region. In 2024, he traveled to Ghana to train local physicians in general gastrointestinal procedures, laying the groundwork for this more advanced, focused mission.

Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country.

Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country.

 

 

Supporting Food Security

Westfield Bank recently announced a $10,000 donation to Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts in support of the organization’s Outrun Hunger 5K race and 1-mile fun walk on Sunday, May 17 in Forest Park in Springfield. Rachel’s Table addresses hunger by rescuing surplus food from local grocery stores, restaurants, farmers markets, and bakeries for delivery to food pantries, shelters, afterschool programs, and more. It also operates food purchasing programs and a gleaning program to connect communities with fresh local farm produce, and supports the development of community gardens. Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, Kara Wood and Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table, Kevin O’Connor of Westfield Bank, and Judy Yaffe of Rachel’s Table.

Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, Kara Wood and Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table, Kevin O’Connor of Westfield Bank, and Judy Yaffe of Rachel’s Table.

Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, Kara Wood and Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table, Kevin O’Connor of Westfield Bank, and Judy Yaffe of Rachel’s Table.

 

 

Medical Student Advocacy

Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate gathered at the Massachusetts State House on March 26 for PURCH on the Hill 2026, an initiative that equips future healthcare professionals with the skills and confidence to advocate for policies that address non-medical factors that greatly impact health. During their visit, students met with legislators and aides to champion two public health measures: Clean Slate legislation and increased funding for the Healthy Incentive Program (HIP). They urged lawmakers to help advance the Clean Slate bills sponsored by state Sens. Cindy Friedman and Adam Gomez that are currently in the Senate Ways & Means Committee, and to increase HIP funding for FY 2027.

Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate

Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate

Agenda

By
Agenda

BCDA Roundtable on Stewardship Best Practices

April 14: The Berkshire County Development Alliance (BCDA) will host a roundtable on stewardship best practices from 4:45 to 6 p.m. at Ventfort Hall, 104 Walker St., Lenox. This informal session will focus on practical, real-world approaches to donor stewardship. Attendees are invited to bring their favorite tips, tools, and tricks and participate in an open discussion to share resources, strategies, and ideas with fellow development professionals and volunteers from across Berkshire County. Seasoned fundraisers, those newer to development work, and people simply interested in strengthening relationships with supporters are invited to learn from peers, exchange ideas, and build community in a relaxed, collegial setting. The event is free to attend, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. RSVP by April 10 at [email protected].

 

Young Women Suited for Growth

April 18: Follow My Steps Foundation announced Young Women Suited for Growth, an inspiring college and career exploration event designed to equip young women with the confidence, resources, and connections needed to shape their future success. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bay Path University, and will bring together students, community leaders, and professionals committed to advancing opportunities for young women. Young Women Suited for Growth provides participants with firsthand exposure to college life, meaningful mentorship opportunities, and interactive sessions focused on leadership development, career exploration, and personal empowerment. Attendees will hear from current college students and guest speakers representing diverse professional backgrounds who will share real-world insights and guidance. Event highlights include college life exploration experiences, leadership and empowerment sessions, networking with students and community leaders, career pathway discussions, and scholarship and mentorship opportunities. The Follow My Steps Foundation is also launching a fundraising initiative to provide scholarships that remove financial barriers and allow participating young women to continue their educational journeys. Registration is limited. Participants may register at www.followmysteps.org.

 

Tri-State SHRM Conference

April 20-22: Human resource professionals from across New England will gather for the 2026 Tri-State SHRM Conference, a professional development event hosted at Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino in Uncasville, Conn. The conference theme — “Balancing Acts & Bold Moves: The Future of HR Starts Here!” — invites HR leaders to explore innovative ideas and strategies shaping the future of the workplace. Known as one of the region’s most dynamic HR events, the Tri-State SHRM Conference brings together hundreds of HR professionals for two and a half days of learning, networking, and inspiration. Attendees will engage in expert-led sessions, connect with industry partners, and explore emerging tools and solutions designed to help organizations succeed in today’s evolving workplace. The 2026 conference will feature educational sessions led by experienced HR practitioners and thought leaders covering key topics such as leadership, talent management, workplace culture, compliance, and the future of work. Participants will also have opportunities to build meaningful connections through networking events and visit the exhibition hall to discover innovative HR products and services. Registration is now open. For full conference details, speaker information, and registration, visit www.tristateshrm.com.

 

Free Community Shred & Share Day

May 8: The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley invites the community to a free Community Shred & Share Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its new office located at 225 Park Ave., West Springfield. To celebrate its recent relocation to West Springfield, the association’s community service committee is hosting this rain-or-shine event to provide residents with a convenient and secure way to dispose of sensitive documents while supporting a meaningful local cause. Attendees are encouraged to bring old personal documents for secure, on-site shredding, helping protect against identity theft. In the spirit of giving back, attendees are also invited to donate non-perishable food items or other essentials to benefit Parish Cupboard, which supports local families in need. The event is free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

People on the Move

By
People on the Move
John Anz

John Anz

Jack Brown

Jack Brown

The Northampton Jazz Festival has welcomed two new board members who bring broad skills and experience in marketing, design, music production, and fundraising: John Anz, who joined in January, and Jack Brown, who came on board in January 2025. Anz is currently director of Development & Community Engagement for the Loomis Communities. An alumnus of Williston Northampton School and Trinity College in Hartford, he moved permanently to Western Mass. in 2002 from his native New York City and deeply involved himself in the local music, arts, and culture scene. He has served on several boards of arts organizations, including the Northampton Community Music Center and the South Hadley Cultural Council, including two years as chair. He has also created, produced, and presented live music in the area as co-chair of the SHOWCASE South Hadley arts and culture festival and, under JAzz Productions, produced Music Mondays Cafe at the Gaylord Memorial Library in South Hadley. After careers in college coaching and real estate management, Anz has been in the development and philanthropy fields of nonprofit fundraising for more than 20 years, including music and arts organizations such as Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Berkshire Hills Music Academy. Brown is Marketing director at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce and the Hampshire County Regional Tourism Council. He has worked in Northampton’s cultural circles for three decades as an artist, writer, and musician, and promotes the region in his current role. He creates and executes the strategies for marketing to constituents of both organizations across all digital, social and print communications channels. Brown’s expertise also includes content creation, graphic design, and setting and analyzing marketing metrics across all channels. He is also a musician (guitarist), illustrator, and graphic designer, having earned a bachelor of fine arts degree at the University of Hartford’s Hartford Art School.

•••••

Anthony Casabianca

Anthony Casabianca

Laurel Williams

Ashlie Baker

Ashlie Baker

Robert Knight

Robert Knight

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) announce the following new hires: Anthony Casabianca, associate; Laurel Williams, associate; Ashlie Baker, senior associate; and Robert Knight, CPA, manager. Casabianca started his career in public accounting as an administrative intern during the 2025 tax season and recently transitioned into his new role as an associate in MBK’s audit and accounting department. He brings fresh perspective to his engagements as a recent college graduate and believes customer service starts with listening to clients’ unique needs so that he can better understand their business and help them achieve their goals. Casabianca received his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Springfield College and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in accounting with a concentration in forensic accounting at UMass Amherst. Williams recently joined MBK as an associate focusing on bookkeeping and taxation. In addition to her experience in bookkeeping and taxation, she also brings expertise in operations, financial planning, and customer service. Her approach to customer service combines open communication with a focus on longterm relationshipbuilding. By clarifying expectations early and staying accessible and supportive, she creates a dependable and welcoming experience for every client she engages with. Williams holds a bachelor’s degree from Boston University. Baker recently joined the team as an a senior associate in the audit and accounting department. She brings her Big 4 experience in the insurance field to her work in public accounting with MBK. From her experience, she has developed strong communication and time management skills, and brings a high level of attention to detail and experience working with complex data. She approaches customer service by listening carefully to understand the individuals needs, then following through with clear communication and a reliable completion. She views customer service as creating a positive and trustworthy experience that reflects well on long-term relationships and on the organization. Baker holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Scared Heart University. MBK recently welcomed Knight to the firm as a manager. He practiced public accounting from 2017 to 2021, and in recent years, his professional focus has been in financial planning and tax advising for high-net-worth individuals. His experience has made him a strategic partner to individuals, helping them grow while developing thoughtful solutions to the challenges they face. Knight holds a bachelor’s degree in corporate finance and accounting from Bentley University and a master’s degree in accounting from the University of Michigan’s Stephan M. Ross School of Business. He is also a member of the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants.

•••••

Bulkley Richardson recently welcomed Joshua Weatherwax to the firm as an associate in the Business Department. “We welcome Joshua to our busy practice, where he will focus on all areas of transactional work, including mergers and acquisitions,” said Scott Foster, chair of Bulkley Richardson’s Business Department. “In addition to his law degree, Joshua’s past business experience allows him a better understating of our clients and how their businesses operate.” Weatherwax earned his juris doctorate in 2025 from Western New England School of Law, where he was an Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. scholar and CALI award recipient. He also earned a bachelor’s degree from Westfield State University in 2019 and an MBA from Western New England University in 2024.

•••••

Kerri Jarzabski

Kerri Jarzabski

Bay Path University announced the appointment of Kerri Jarzabski as its new dean of Retention and Advising. She brings more than two decades of leadership experience in higher education and a deep commitment to student success. Jarzabski most recently served at UMass Amherst in the Office of Student Affairs and Campus Life while completing her doctoral work. Prior to that, she spent more than 20 years at Western New England University, where she held a series of increasingly senior leadership roles, including vice president for Student Affairs. In her new role at Bay Path, she will lead the university’s efforts to strengthen retention and advising strategies across its newly unified institution (Bay Path University and Cambridge College), with a focus on leveraging data, enhancing the student experience, and supporting student success at every stage of the academic journey. Jarzabski earned her PhD in higher education from UMass Amherst. Her doctoral research focused on the first-year experience and supporting neurodivergent students, reflecting her dedication to inclusivity and holistic student support. She also holds a certificate of advanced graduate study in higher education leadership from UMass Amherst, a master’s degree in higher education: student personnel administration from Teachers College, Columbia University, and a bachelor’s degree in English literature and communications from Western New England University, where she graduated magna cum laude.

•••••

Debbie DePaola

Debbie DePaola

Freedom Credit Union announced that Debbie DePaola has been appointed branch officer for its West Springfield location. DePaola joined Freedom in 2023 as an assistant branch manager, bringing more than a decade of experience in the banking industry. In her new role, she leads the daily operations of the branch with a focus on service, efficiency, and member satisfaction. She oversees branch performance, coaches and develops staff, ensures regulatory and compliance standards are consistently met, and supports business development and community relations efforts throughout the region. A graduate of the College of Central Florida with an associate degree in business administration, DePaola has been recognized for her dedication, leadership, and commitment to Freedom’s mission. In 2025, she received the Freedom Credit Union President’s Award.

•••••

Monson Savings Bank (MSB) announced the recipients of its 2026 President’s Award, the highest honor presented by the bank, which recognizes employees who exemplify the bank’s mission and values through outstanding customer and community service, teamwork, professionalism, and integrity. This year, two employees have been selected from peer nominations: Melanie Garcia, senior commercial loan administrator; and Terry Poloski, vice president, residential lending officer. Employed with Monson Savings Bank since November 2013, Garcia has long been a pillar of excellence within the Commercial Lending department. Chosen from 22 nominees in the non-officer/manager category, she received five heartfelt nominations highlighting her expertise, organization, communication skills, and the positive influence she brings to the team. Colleagues describe Garcia as knowledgeable, humble, and exceptionally dedicated, consistently strengthening customer relationships and enhancing the bank’s reputation. Her commitment to her role, her team, and the bank’s partners is both remarkable and inspiring. Since joining Monson Savings Bank in December 2011, Poloski has been a trusted leader within the Residential Lending department. Selected from 16 nominees in the officer/manager category, she also received five nominations, each recognizing her professionalism, compassion, and significant impact on both customers and colleagues. Poloski is described as humble, hardworking, an outstanding mentor, and a leader who consistently prioritizes the bank’s success over personal recognition. Her dedication has helped shape the strength and reputation of the bank’s mortgage department and continues to set the standard for exceptional customer care at MSB.

•••••

Ashik Mubarak

Ashik Mubarak

Caolo & Bieniek Associates Inc. announced that Ashik Mubarak has officially passed all of his architectural exams and is now a registered architect, awaiting the arrival of his license. “We are proud to announce that Ashik has successfully passed his final architectural registration exam,” the firm stated. “This significant achievement marks the culmination of years of dedicated study, professional experience, and commitment to excellence in design. Ashik represents the next generation of architectural talent, bringing creativity, technical expertise, and fresh perspective to our team. We congratulate him on this outstanding accomplishment and look forward to his continued contributions to our projects and the communities we serve.”

•••••

Ashley Menard

Ashley Menard

The Irish Cultural Center of Western New England announced the hiring of Ashley Menard as general manager of the Irish House Restaurant and Trinity Pub. Menard has been working in restaurants since 2002, most recently in the beverage distribution industry. She is excited to share her passion and knowledge within this new role. “I am thrilled to join the Irish House Restaurant and Trinity Pub as it has built a strong reputation for quality and hospitality,” she said. “I appreciate the opportunity to work alongside this team as we continue to grow and successfully meet the needs of our guests.”

•••••

Springfield Prep Charter School, a free charter public school, announced Meghan Wagner as its new executive director starting April 1. Wagner has served as a senior operations and finance leader for more than a decade, and currently serves as the school’s chief operating & financial officer. The move comes after an extensive, months-long hiring process by the board of trustees after Springfield Prep’s founder and current Executive Director Bill Spirer, announced plans to pursue a new professional chapter early this fall. Wagner, a leader with more than 16 years of experience in public education, is celebrated for her collaborative approach to problem solving, ability to unify people, and unwavering dedication to achieving positive outcomes for students and families. Over the past decade at Springfield Prep, she has been instrumental in the school’s success, leading operations, finance, and human resources. Her contributions have been key to the school’s expansion, encompassing management of the school budget, oversight of the new school building’s construction, and leadership of critical initiatives for teachers, staff, and students. Furthermore, she has consistently empowered instructional leaders to implement student-centered, data-driven approaches to learning.

•••••

Aaron Vega

Aaron Vega

Aaron Vega, president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, has been appointed to the Holyoke Community College (HCC) board of trustees by Gov. Maura Healey. Vega attended his first HCC board meeting on March 24, and his five-year term runs until March 2031. Until the end of 2025, Vega was director of the Office of Planning & Economic Development for the city of Holyoke. From 2013 to 2021, he represented the 5th Hampden District in the Massachusetts House of Representatives. He started his career in public service in Holyoke as a two-term city councilor at large. No stranger to HCC, Vega is a 1990 alumnus and received a Distinguished Alumni Award from the college in 2015. He is the son of the late Carlos Vega, the Holyoke social activist and co-founder of the nonprofit Nueva Esperanza, himself a 1971 graduate of HCC who was honored with a Distinguished Service Award at Commencement in 2004. Vega’s daughter, Courtney Joaquin, graduated from HCC in 2018. Vega’s work for Holyoke as a city councilor and director of Planning & Economic Development has also kept him in close contact with the college through the years. After HCC, Vega transferred to Keene State University, where he earned bachelor’s degrees in psychology and film studies. He spent the first part of his career as a documentary filmmaker, working for Ken Burns’ Florentine Studios. He and his wife, Debra, are the owners of Vega Yoga & Movement Arts in Holyoke. Aside from the HCC board of trustees, Vega serves on the boards of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, Mass Humanities, and New England Public Media, and is chair of the Carlos Vega Fund for Social Justice.

•••••

Margaret Nugent

Margaret Nugent

Greenfield Community College (GCC) announced the appointment of Margaret Nugent to its board of trustees. A seasoned leader in vocational education and workforce development, Nugent brings a wealth of experience in bridging the gap between secondary technical education and higher learning. Nugent’s appointment reinforces GCC’s commitment to strengthening regional educational pathways and fostering a resilient, skilled workforce in the Pioneer Valley. As the current vocational director at Franklin County Technical School, she is well-positioned to align the college’s strategic vision with the needs of local industry. Before transitioning into education, Nugent spent two decades in the hospitality and food service industry. In the early 2000s, she began teaching culinary arts at Putnam Vocational Technical High School, sparking a passion for vocational training that led her to earn a master of education degree from Westfield State University. Over the past 15 years, she has served in diverse administrative roles, including cooperative education coordinator, adult education administrator, and grant writer.

•••••

Two Holyoke educators were recently honored by the city and state for their work engaging students in civic learning. During a Civics Learning Week ceremony at Wistariahurst Museum on March 9, Vanessa Martinez, professor of Anthropology at Holyoke Community College (HCC), and Nicholas Cream, an Ethnic Studies and History teacher at Dean Technical High School, received proclamations recognizing their work from Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, the state House of Representatives, and the state Senate. Martinez, a health anthropologist, is co-founder of the Springfield-based Women of Color Health Equity Collective and coordinator of Community-based Learning at HCC. In 2023, Martinez’s students began collecting stories from Holyoke residents for two oral history projects, one on the COVID-19 pandemic and another that examines living conditions in the city and their impact on public health. Those interviews have become part of the Wistariahurst Museum’s permanent archives, and those projects continue. Cream is president of the Holyoke Teachers Assoc. and an advocate for civic participation and for teachers striving to improve education in Holyoke.

•••••

Ben Lamb

Ben Lamb

Berkshire Agricultural Ventures (BAV) announced that Berkshire-based economic development expert Ben Lamb has been appointed to BAV’s board of directors. Lamb is vice president of Economic Development at 1Berkshire, where he works to support a broad range of rural businesses and industries across the region. His local leadership roles include serving as a trustee of MASS MoCA, board vice chair for the Northern Berkshire Community Coalition, clerk of the board of the North Adams Partnership, and co-founder of the NAMAzing Initiative, a community group committed to creative placemaking and grassroots economic development initiatives in North Adams. Other public service positions include four terms as a North Adams city councilor. A graduate of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Lamb holds a master’s degree from the College of Saint Rose and a PhD in higher education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. His diverse professional background encompasses ecotourism, historic landscape restoration, and café ownership in downtown North Adams.

•••••

DJ Nicki Nell

DJ Nicki Nell

DJ Nicki Nell, president of Visual Sound Productions Inc., an entertainment and event production company, was selected to perform at the Boston Celtics game against the Atlanta Hawks on March 27 at TD Garden. The performance is part of the Celtics’ annual Pride Night celebration, an event that highlights and supports the LGBTQ+ community within the sports and entertainment space. The initiative is supported in part by the Massachusetts LGBT Chamber of Commerce, whose partnership has been instrumental in shaping the evening’s programming and community impact. Nell brings prior experience performing in high-profile sports environments, including two seasons performing with the Miami Heat, further reinforcing her ability to deliver in front of large-scale, high-energy audiences. Known for her ability to read a crowd and keep the energy high, Nell brings a performance style that fits seamlessly into the fast-paced world of live professional sports.

•••••

The Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage announced that Lindsay Barron LaBonte, branch manager and senior loan officer of the Applied Mortgage team, received the Peter V. Kocot Community Service Award from the Northampton St. Patrick’s Assoc. This recognition celebrates a chosen person who has distinguished himself or herself through substantial community service contributions in Western Mass. LaBonte was recognized for her outstanding commitment to community service and local impact. Through her leadership and volunteer efforts across Western Mass., she has consistently invested her time, resources, and voice in initiatives that strengthen families and expand opportunity. Her dedication reflects the spirit of the award: uplifting others, building meaningful partnerships, and creating lasting change in the communities she proudly serves.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

MountainOne Insurance Agency Opens Great Barrington Office

GREAT BARRINGTON — MountainOne Insurance Agency Inc. announced the opening of an office at 4 Castle St., Suite 201, in Great Barrington, marking a meaningful expansion of its presence in Southern Berkshire County. The appointment-only office will be staffed by account executive Dan Blaisdell, providing a local point of connection for clients throughout the Southern Berkshires. Blaisdell specializes in business insurance and brings deep knowledge of the region, along with long-standing relationships built through years of working closely with local organizations and entrepreneurs. The new Great Barrington office brings MountainOne Insurance closer to the clients it serves across Southern Berkshire County, offering personalized insurance guidance from a trusted local advisor who understands the community and its needs.

 

Dean’s Beans Earns High B Corp Impact Score

ORANGE — Dean’s Beans Organic Coffee Co. announced that its most recent B Corp recertification has earned the company a B Impact Score of 168.5, an increase of 57.9 points since its last certification in 2022. The new score places the Massachusetts-based, worker-owned coffee company as the highest scoring B Corp-certified coffee roaster in the world. B Corp certification is widely recognized as the gold standard for companies committed to balancing purpose and profit. Administered by the nonprofit B Lab, the certification evaluates companies against rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Businesses are assessed across key areas, including governance, treatment of workers, environmental practices, and community impact. Dean’s Beans is part of a global community of nearly 10,000 B Corps operating across more than 100 countries and 150 industries. Companies must earn a minimum score of 80 points to become certified. With a score of 168.5, Dean’s Beans lands in the top 25 B Corp companies certified since 2023. Since its last certification, the company transitioned to a worker-owned cooperative, giving employees shared ownership and a direct voice in how the company operates and grows. Founded in 1993 by environmental and Indigenous rights lawyer Dean Cycon, Dean’s Beans was built on the idea that a coffee company could prioritize people and the planet and still be profitable. The company sources organic, fair-trade, shade-grown coffee through long-term partnerships with farmer cooperatives. It also helps fund social, economic, and environmental projects identified and led by those communities. Dean’s Beans roasts all of its coffee at its ‘beanery’ in Orange, supplying cafés, grocery stores, and coffee drinkers across the U.S.

 

Country Bank Donates $10,000 to Quaboag Valley CDC

WARE — Country Bank announced a $10,000 donation to the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp. (QVCDC) to support programs that strengthen local businesses and promote economic development throughout the region. QVCDC plays an important role in supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community members by providing access to resources, technical assistance, and business development services. Through its work, the organization helps foster sustainable economic growth and opportunity across the Quaboag Valley. Country Bank remains committed to supporting organizations that strengthen communities and expand economic opportunities throughout Central and Western Mass. Contributions like this help ensure local organizations have the resources they need to continue serving residents, businesses, and entrepreneurs in meaningful ways.

 

BusinessRate Recognizes Sugar Maple Trailside Inn

NORTHAMPTON — BusinessRate recently rated the Sugar Maple Trailside Inn the number-one bed and breakfast in Florence for endurance, momentum, and quality of its reviews on Google and Tripadvisor. In mid-February, owners Craig Della Penna and Kathy Della Penna received the ranking for the owner-occupied inn at 62 Chestnut St. in Florence, which sits on the rail trail that passes through the village and opened in February 2003. Sugar Maple Trailside Inn offers two rooms for guests, both of which have windows that face the trail. A bicycle strung with white bulbs lights up at dusk and becomes a welcoming beacon for arriving guests. The inn has roughly 350 guests in a year, a quarter of which have a connection to Smith College. Eighty percent of guests use the trail. The Sugar Maple Trailside Inn has received other accolades over the years, including the Historic Preservation Award from the city of Northampton and three times as a Valley Advocate Best in the Valley winner, and it has been featured on HGTV’s Restore America and Boston’s WCVB Channel 5’s Chronicle twice, and in Yankee magazine’s 70th-anniversary issue.

 

HCC Giving Day Campaign Raises More Than $131,000

HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Community College (HCC) Foundation raised more than $131,000 for scholarships and student support programs during its “Together HCC” one-day giving campaign on March 4, surpassing its six-year, $1 million goal. The sixth annual “Together HCC: Drive to Change Lives” campaign received donations worth $131,278 from 455 alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the college during the 24-hour fundraising drive. All of the money raised goes directly to six areas that support HCC students: academic excellence and innovation, scholarships, the Thrive Student Resource Center and Food Pantry, the President’s Student Emergency Fund, the President’s Fund for Opportunity, and the HCC Foundation’s general, unrestricted fund. The HCC Foundation, the college’s charitable, nonprofit foundation, launched “Together HCC: A Campaign for Caring” in March 2020 to build community support and raise money for students experiencing financial distress during the pandemic. In 2021, with Holyoke auto dealer Gary Rome signed on, HCC added the “Drive to Change Lives” theme and collectively raised more than $1 million for student support programs.

 

AIC Launches Partnership with Western Mass Youth Sports

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) Athletics announced a landmark partnership with Western Mass Youth Sports, designating AIC as the official home for all Western Mass Youth Sports programming and Play 4 Her Flag Football activities. The partnership reflects AIC’s deep commitment to serving the broader community and creating an open, welcoming campus where youth and adults throughout Western Mass. can access world-class athletic facilities. Western Mass Youth Sports has quickly become a growing leader in youth athletics in the region, serving more than 300 young athletes across Western Mass. in sports including basketball, flag football, and more. Through this new partnership, all Western Mass Youth Sports events, practices, and competitions will be hosted on the AIC campus, giving young athletes access to collegiate-level facilities and a vibrant, supportive environment. A highlight of the partnership is AIC’s role as the official host of Play 4 Her Flag Football, a program dedicated to expanding opportunities for young women and girls in the sport. By providing a premier home for Play4Her, AIC continues its tradition of championing inclusivity and equal access to athletic opportunities for all members of the community.

 

HCC Production Earns Three Regional Theater Awards

HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Community College (HCC) Theater Department’s fall 2025 production of The Last Living Gun received three awards at the recent American College Theater Festival (ACTF) in Albany, N.Y. Collectively, the cast and crew of The Last Living Gun earned a merit award for Ensemble Work. The play by Ryan Stevens follows a mercenary across a post-apocalyptic landscape on an epic quest to find the last gun in existence. The show was guest-directed by Cordelia Winters Dwyer, a graduate student from the University of Massachusetts Theater program. HCC students Ivy Wrenne Demetriou and Toby Stearns received individual merit awards for their work as stage manager and musical director, respectively. Stearns also performed in the production as an actor and musician. HCC belongs to ACTF Region I, whose 2026 festival was held in January in Albany and hosted by Siena College. Region I includes colleges and universities in northern New York and all six New England states. Awards are based on the recommendations of respondents, who travel around the country to view college theater productions and offer critiques. The HCC Theater Department has won more than 20 ACTF awards over the past 15 years in multiple categories, including individual acting, ensemble acting, dedication to a script, stage management, musical direction, best original music, playwriting, and collaboration.

 

Greylock Federal Credit Union Reports Strong Performance

PITTSFIELD — Greylock Federal Credit Union reported a strong balance sheet, robust capital position, and impressive earnings for 2025 during its 91st annual meeting held on March 24. Total assets equaled nearly $1.7 billion at year end. Net income finished at $17.8 million for 2025, including the one-time benefit of $6.8 million of net proceeds from the Employee Retention Credit program, which was created by the federal government under the CARES Act to offset some of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on organizations across the country. The credit union reported loan growth of $25 million, or 1.9%, during 2025. This growth was reflected across nearly every major loan category, as total loan balances exceed $1.3 billion. On the funding side, deposit balances increased $49 million, or 3.6%. At the end of 2025, Greylock deposit balances equaled $1.4 billion.

 

Farm Credit East Reports Strong 2025 Financial Results

ENFIELD, Conn. — Farm Credit East reported solid 2025 financial results at its annual meeting held on March 23. Continued loan growth coupled with strong earnings allowed Farm Credit East to distribute a combined $145 million in patronage dividends to eligible customer-owners based on 2025 earnings. In 2025, Farm Credit East’s net income grew to $367 million. Following more than two decades of growth, the cooperative closed out the year with $14.3 billion in loan volume and $2.6 billion in capital. This level of equity allows Farm Credit East to maintain competitive interest rates, while returning a portion of earnings to eligible customer-owners through patronage dividends.

 

Cancer Connection to Launch New Springfield Location

NORTHAMPTON — Cancer Connection announced it will open a new location in Springfield this spring, providing supports for people with a cancer diagnosis and their caregivers. This new site, in Bicentennial Plaza on Allen Street, will allow convenient access to its free services for more people in the Springfield community. The organization will also open a curated version of its popular thrift shop a few doors down in the same plaza. Like its flagship thrift shop in Northampton, the store will feature high-quality goods at low prices, and all proceeds will help fund Cancer Connection’s services for cancer patients and their caregivers. On Saturday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a ribbon cutting and soft opening will take place at the new thrift shop location at 1510 Allen St., with friends and supporters joining the team to celebrate. This new location will be part of the Integrative Health Group at 1502 Allen St. and will have a dedicated program director on site. The Springfield thrift shop will offer a curated selection of gently used items, including clothing, housewares, jewelry, art, and books, all at reasonable prices and with all profits supporting Cancer Connection. Meanwhile, Cancer Connection will continue to offer its full range of services and programs at 41 Locust St. in Northampton and its thrift shop in that city. Many programs are offered in hybrid format, so they may be accessed anywhere.

 

United Way of Pioneer Valley Featured at Empath Conference

SPRINGFIELD — United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) announced the successful participation of Victoria Accorsi, community financial coach, mobility mentor, and AFC candidate, as a speaker at Economic Mobility Pathways’ (Empath) 2026 Disrupting Poverty Conference, held March 23-26 at Boston University. Accorsi served as a panelist in the session titled “Climbing Without Falling: New Ideas to Fix the Benefits Cliff,” which explored how sudden losses in food, housing, childcare, or health benefits can leave working families worse off after small wage increases. The session highlighted innovative approaches to benefit phaseouts, income transitions, and system redesign to ensure that work truly pays. Accorsi shared insights from her coaching work on the Bridge to Prosperity Cliff Effect Pilot, a three‑year initiative led by Springfield WORKS in partnership with United Way of Pioneer Valley and other community-based organizations across Massachusetts. The pilot supports up to 100 residents who receive public assistance by helping them pursue higher‑paying careers while mitigating the financial risks associated with benefits cliffs. Through the pilot, families receive supplemental cash assistance when rising wages trigger benefit losses, one-on-one financial and career coaching through partners such as UWPV, and access to employer partners offering training and living‑wage opportunities. As a United Way community financial coach, Accorsi works directly with participants to navigate budgeting, wage changes, benefits reductions, and long-term goal setting, providing crucial on‑the‑ground perspective to the statewide innovation effort.

 

Tighe & Bond Expands New Hampshire Presence

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond, a Northeast leader in engineering, environmental, planning, and design consulting services, announced the opening of the firm’s new office in Manchester, N.H.

Located at 1750 Elm St., Suite 902 within the Brady Sullivan Tower, this new location will allow Tighe & Bond to better service its growing client base in the Merrimack Valley and beyond. This strategic move expands the firm’s New Hampshire presence, joining its existing Portsmouth location, to serve communities on a local level. Tom Mahanna, who will serve as location manager, has been instrumental in leading the opening of this new space. A vice president within the firm’s Water Business Line, he brings more than three decades of experience in municipal consulting and construction in water resources and wastewater engineering, as well as managing resources and staff for multiple teams in the firm’s offices across the Northeast. This new office opening represents the latest growth opportunity for the firm, following the acquisition of New Hampshire-based hydrogeology and environmental firm Geosphere Environmental Management Inc. last year.

 

The Dowd Agencies Acquires Insurance Agency in Vermont

HOLYOKE — The Dowd Agencies, the oldest insurance agency in Massachusetts under continuous family ownership, today announced it is acquiring Royer Camp & Associated Insurance in Newport, Vt. Founded more than 50 years ago, Royer Camp & Associated Insurance has earned the trust of generations of Vermont and New Hampshire families and businesses by providing highly personalized service and tailored personal and commercial coverage. In keeping with that legacy, the agency will continue to operate under the name Royer Camp & Associated Insurance, a Member of the Dowd Agencies. Local customers will work with the same staff in the same location, with no changes to day-to-day service, policies, points of contact, or coverage. This marks the Dowd Agencies’ second location in Vermont, joining Lonergan & Thomas Insurance in Bennington, and complements its six offices serving communities across Western Mass.

 

Big Y Recognized for Workplace Culture

SPRINGFIELD — Big Y has been recognized as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community for 2026. The award is presented by Newsweek in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group, based on one of the nation’s largest independent studies of employee experience. The recognition highlights organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace culture, inclusion, and community, as evaluated through extensive employee feedback and independent research. The study analyzed millions of employee reviews nationwide, incorporating survey data, public information, and third-party analysis to assess how employees experience culture, belonging, and support in the workplace.

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.

AMHERST

Fresh Side II Corp., 39 South Pleasant St., Amherst, MA 01002. Yong Liu, 3 Juniper Lane, Amherst, MA 01002. Restaurant with tea, bar, and food.

CHICOPEE

Global Veterinary Fund Inc., 500 Grattan St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Rahim Nurmuradov, 28 Main St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Organizes food and drink sales as fundraising activities to support the corporation’s charitable mission and encourage student involvement; partners with student organizations to promote awareness of charitable causes and collect donations in furtherance of the corporation’s exempt purposes; and hosts events in collaboration with local businesses to foster community engagement, generate support for the corporation’s mission, and encourage mutual growth.

EASTHAMPTON

Donald A. Smith, MD, P.C., 4 Mayher St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Donald Smith, same. The practice of psychiatry.

EAST LONGMEADOW

CSD Supply Inc., 225B Shaker Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Tyler Feinstein, 95 Granby Road, South Hadley, MA 01075. Engages in the business of purchasing, marketing, and selling cabinets and related products at retail value, including but not limited to the operation of showrooms, distribution, installation, and related services.

HATFIELD

Pioneer Building & Management Inc., 145 Main St., Hatfield, MA 01038. Matthew Dean, same. General interior and exterior construction and remodeling.

 

HOLYOKE

Puerto Rican Distillates Inc., 305 Main St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Cheera Montano, same. Distributor of alcoholic products.

LENOX

Lenox Odyssey of the Mind Inc., 86 Dunmore Court, Lenox, MA 01240. Kimberly Winger, same. Supports, promotes, and provides educational opportunities through participation in the Odyssey of the Mind program.

PALMER

New England Samoyed Rescue Inc., 89 Peterson Road, Palmer, MA 01069. Jennifer Bennici, same. Nonprofit animal rescue organization.

PITTSFIELD

Grey Matter Tech Corp., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. James Lafond, 935 Main St., Manchester, CT 06040. Technology services.

Knock on Wood Productions, 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Matthew Weber, same. Executive producer of TV series.

Nando Trainer Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Fernando Rodrigues Inocencio, same. Personal training services.

Pipe Time Plumbing & Heating Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Shane Phillips, 10 Parkside Ave., Acushnet, MA 02743. Plumbing company.

Signvalue Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Jeffrey Wright, same. Bidding on contract with MassPort.

This Matters Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Tovah Haim, 41 Schermerhorn St., #1053, Brooklyn, NY 11201. Designs, manufactures, and provides consumer products to women experiencing bodily changes during life events such as pregnancy, birth, and menopause.

SPRINGFIELD

American Legion Auxiliary Unit 420 Inc., 290 East St., Springfield, MA 01104. Marlene Wresien, 66 Woodlawn St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Nonprofit veterans’ service organization.

Fast Service Auto Center Inc., 927 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119. Eric Odalis Castillo-Mendez, 3037 Washington St., #411, Roxbury, MA 02119. Auto repair and sales.

Pathways Forward Foundation Inc., 79 Manor Court, Springfield, MA 01118. Danielle Crescione, same. Empowers individuals and communities by providing opportunities for growth, resilience, and collaboration through innovative learning experiences.

Springfield Golden Hooperz Inc., 122 Lowell St., Springfield, MA 01107. Jorge Colon, same. Provides youth with structured training.

STOCKBRIDGE

Camp Wagalot Inc., 21 East St., Stockbridge, MA 01262. Jennifer Andrews, same. Animal concierge and behavior support.

WESTFIELD

Politov Concrete Inc., 72 Susan Dr., Westfield, MA 01085. Timofey Politov, same. Concrete.

Westice Inc., 225 Prospect St. Ext., Westfield, MA 01085. Allan Young, same. Engages in the business of trucking, snow and ice removal, and manufacturing of equipment used in the removal of snow and ice.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Breaking the Core Inc., 900 Riverdale St., #225, West Springfield, MA 01089. Corey Houston, 365 Central St., Apt. 40, Springfield, MA 01105. Provides comprehensive support to individuals and families facing mental health challenges, incarceration, homelessness, domestic violence, substance abuse, and related community barriers through networking, advocacy, and access to vital resources.

Doing Business as Certrificates

By
DBA Certificates

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

AMHERST

Amherst Youth Soccer Assoc.
10 Stagecoach Road
Megan Rhodes

Cultivation Health Coaching
66 Bridge St.
Celia Maysles

Dixie Brown Writer & Teacher
52 Valley View Circle
Sarah Brown

Handy Human
1420 South East St.
Jett Craze

Nkosi & Associates
6 University Dr., #206
Gazit Chaya Nkosi

Randall Guitars and Mandolins
18 Old Town Road
Thomas Randall

GREAT BARRINGTON

amyblumkin.com
29 Burning Tree Road
Amy Arnoff Blumkin

Aroma Bar and Grill
485 Main St.
Muthaiah Subbaiah

Art in the Berkshires
8 Castle St.
Shany Porras

Autism Treatment Center of America
490 Main St., Unit 2C
Kelly Healy

Barrington Pack and Ship
67 State Road, Suite 2
Alexander Ervin

Berkshire Rental Properties
29 Benton Ave.
Claudia Laslie

Body Lab GB
47 Railroad St., Suite 4
Bridget Ford Hughes

Café Adam
420 Stockbridge Road
Adam Zieminski

De La Cruz Painting
265 Stockbridge Road, Apt. 1
Alfredo De La Cruz

Do Autism Differently
490 Main St., Unit 2C
Kelly Healy

Elfrow Flower Co.
11 Bentley Ave.
Kelly Holt

Going Gnome
276 North Plain Road
William VanSant

Sacred IFS
Lisa Solomon
291 Main St.

The Short List
292 Main St., #16
William Short

Sweet Solutions
65 Seekonk Road
Christopher Sweet

VCA All Caring Animal Hospital
440 Stockbridge Road
VCA Animal Hospitals Inc.

W.E.B. Du Bois Freedom Center
9 Elm Court
Dan Bolgnani

NORTHAMPTON

Allison L. Potter, LMT
150 Main St.
Allison Potter

An Affair of the Heart
43 Center St., Suite G304
Ross Hackerson

Being in a Body Better
92 Main St., #202
Molly McLaughlin

Coles Music Studio
470 Coles Meadow Road
William Hunt Jr.

Crestal Health Periodontics
241 King St., Suite 120
Daniel Stiefel

Florence Hardware
12 North Maple St.
Todd Sienkiewicz

FLOW Bodywork & Massage Therapy
84 Williams St.
Devin Clark

Foliar Group
114 Nonotuck St.
Landry Kwawu

Kate Hennessey, Massage Therapist
150 Main St.
Kathryn Hennessey

Martinson Golly US Inc.
17 New South St., Unit 305
William Golly

Nelson & Ligia House Cleaning
84 High St., Unit 2
Ligia Rubio

 

Ostberg and Associates Financial Services and Insurance LLC
351 Pleasant St., Suite D
Robert Ostberg

Recalibrate
53 Center St.
Leslie Kelly

Stefiny’s
150 Main St., Suite 355
Stefiny Coimbra

Tart Bakery
192 Main St.
Madalyn Palmer

Toad’s Kin Car Too
5 Middle St.
Robert Nutting

TommyCar Auto Group
347 King St.
Carla Cosenzi Zayac

Transformations Home Improvement
139 Damon Road, Unit D
Manuel Deida

Transformations Kitchen and Bath Design Center
139 Damon Road, Unit D
Manuel Deida

Warner Tree
67 Bradford St.
Robert Aldrich

WEST SPRINGFIELD

All Things Art by Felicia
96 Fairview Ave.
Felicia Dow

Christian D. Smith, LICSW
141 Westwood Dr.
Christian Smith

Cyber Exchange Group
1053 Riverdale St.
Adam Buynicki

Gwiddon Atelier
203 Circuit Ave.
Katherine Pratt

Lucky Sevens Carpet
1752 Riverdale St.
Gabriel Khatchaourian

Magic Keys Piano Studio
40 Windsor St.
Tetiana Somkina

Mercy LIFE
200 Hillside Circle, Suite 1
Dawn Szymczyk

Quality Life Adult Day Services #1
52 Wayside Ave.
Gina Martin

Quality Life Adult Day Services #2
52 Wayside Ave.
Gina Martin

Rahma Care Services
58 Hill St.
Faiza Abdulla

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

Abreu Arnaud, Juan A.
140 Chestnut St., Apt. 612
Springfield, MA 01103
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/09/2026

Breton, Jeanne M.
401 Irene St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/09/2026

Cabreja Bautista, Osvaldo
58 Olmsted Dr.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/06/2026

Eckert, Alice F.
101 Amherst St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/04/2026

Flores Melendez, Abraham Jessie
Flores Fernandez, Alondra Maries
866 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/04/2026

Gagnon, Cynthia M.
8 Fairmont St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/02/2026

Goldberg, Verity A.
128 Williams St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/09/2026

Haas, Peter F.
Haas, Linda L.
P.O. Box 602
Adams, MA 01220
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/09/2026

Harris, Heidyn J.
22 Pleasant St., Apt. 3
Greenfield, MA 01301-2461
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/03/2026

Henshaw, David B.
79 Long Plain Road
South Deerfield, MA 01373-9637
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/04/2026

Kimball, Morgan Dunbar
89 Howard St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/04/2026

Lorenzi, Rosa J.
559 Main St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/03/2026

McBride, Lisa
257 Maynard St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/04/2026

Palacios De Jimenez, Margarita
15 Yorktown Dr .
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/10/2026

Renee, Alexus
128 College Highway, Apt. 110
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/04/2026

Rodriguez, Jose E.
33 Stockman St., Apt. 2
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/05/2026

Santiago, Victor
26 Wing St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/03/2026

Soto Noel Y.
a/k/a Soto Cruz, Noel Y.
29 Pocantico Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/02/2026

Spaulding, Kristopher W.
5 Gaugh St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/10/2026

Sullivan, Patrick M.
74 Ferry Hill Road
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Date: 03/03/2026

Vatter, Charles
Vatter, Catherine
24 Greenwood Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/04/2

Vega Perez, Chris
154 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Date: 03/10/2026

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

393 Baptist Corner Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Mount Grace Land Conservation
Seller: Double Edge Theatre Productions
Date: 03/09/26

5 Clesson Brook Road
Ashfield, MA 01339
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Michael Issaev
Seller: Baird, Lawrence J., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

286 Creamery Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Allen J. Gabriel
Seller: Rimbach Jr., Albert H., (Estate)
Date: 03/06/26

BERNARDSTON

118 Brattleboro Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Ayden Stacy
Seller: Beth A. Melnik
Date: 03/05/26

BUCKLAND

5 Clesson Brook Road
Buckland, MA 01339
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Michael Issaev
Seller: Baird, Lawrence J., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

143 East Buckland Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Brian Godin
Seller: Diana Weatherby
Date: 03/09/26

87 State St.
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Marc Carcio
Seller: Peter Smith
Date: 03/13/26

CHARLEMONT

400 Zoar Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Joia Verde LLC
Seller: Casper Martin
Date: 03/13/26

CONWAY

559 Main Poland Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $346,666
Buyer: Ramey Ret
Seller: Roger Freeman Clapp
Date: 03/11/26

DEERFIELD

59 North Hillside Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $399,000
Buyer: Elaine Henderson
Seller: Philip C. Hayes
Date: 03/13/26

ERVING

24 State Road
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Custom Art Const LLC
Seller: Flanigan, Joseph R., (Estate)
Date: 03/09/26

GILL

10 Center Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Emily Tourigny
Seller: Richard C. French
Date: 02/20/26

GREENFIELD

26-28 Devens St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Make Investors Great Again LLC
Seller: Shannon M. Petrin
Date: 03/04/26

63 James St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $378,000
Buyer: Danielle Saint Louis
Seller: James Ryan Gleason
Date: 03/06/26

187 Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Andrew C. Chase
Seller: Walter N. Leutz RET
Date: 03/10/26

18 Power Court
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Caleb Walk
Seller: Stephen E. Walk
Date: 03/13/26

63 Pleasant St.
Greenfield, MA 01376
Amount: $236,750
Buyer: Scott M. Dredge
Seller: Sandra Lamont-Golden
Date: 03/05/26

46 Turners Falls Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: John Dunphy
Seller: Roberta A. Monette
Date: 03/06/26

NORTHFIELD

94 Main Road
Northfield, MA 01354
Amount: $959,500
Buyer: Purple Iris LLC
Seller: Stephen J. Stoia
Date: 03/09/26

396 Mt. Hermon Station Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Jared Erho
Seller: Kellie L. Martin
Date: 03/04/26

ORANGE

37 Dexter St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Virginia Realty Inc.
Seller: Modena Inc.
Date: 03/03/26

260 East Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $457,000
Buyer: Luis Quinonez
Seller: G. & Denise J. Corrigan RET
Date: 03/02/26

900 North Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Manuel A. Figueredo-Chavez
Seller: Megliola Realty LLC
Date: 03/11/26

39 Terrace St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $264,900
Buyer: Ernst Simon
Seller: John A. Millett
Date: 03/13/26

520 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Cameron James Clark
Seller: James E. Hause
Date: 03/06/26

ROWE

147 Plumtree Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Dieu Le
Seller: Vincent J. Tran
Date: 03/06/26

201 Ford Hill Road
Rowe, MA 01367
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Kyle Buxton
Seller: Kevin Johnson
Date: 03/06/26

SUNDERLAND

38 South Plain Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Jacob D. Morgan
Seller: Robert Jackson Beaulieu
Date: 03/13/26

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

126 Barry St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Paul Gauthier
Seller: Anthony P. Strycharz
Date: 03/11/26

19 Greenwood St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Brendan Hanna
Seller: Alan James Desroches
Date: 03/11/26

230-232 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $5,250,000
Buyer: Agawam 230-232 MP Wrk7 LLC
Seller: Welltower OM Group LLC
Date: 03/13/26

192 Regency Park Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Haley Begley
Seller: Craig E. Miloz
Date: 03/06/26

73 Silver Lake Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Lyubov Suprunets
Seller: Jeffrey Alyn Smith
Date: 03/03/26

4 Sunrise Ter.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Alana Parnell
Seller: Jon C. Daniels
Date: 03/10/26

BLANDFORD

32 Nye Brook Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $616,500
Buyer: Farm East LLC
Seller: Josephine J. Taudel
Date: 03/09/26

BRIMFIELD

92 Five Bridge Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: John J. Buday
Seller: Alfred J. Albano
Date: 03/02/26

CHESTER

10 William St.
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: William F. Barry
Seller: Olit 2024-HB1 Alternative
Date: 03/10/26

CHICOPEE

26 Belcher St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Rihab Al Zubaidi
Seller: Muni Management Inc.
Date: 03/12/26

66 Bromont St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Philip Crump-Willis
Seller: Dgl Properties LLC
Date: 03/12/26

219 Clarendon Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Joan M. Hernandez Martinez
Seller: Leo Fugler
Date: 03/09/26

35 Dublin St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $263,000
Buyer: Janusz Baran
Seller: Yelle, Helen L., (Estate)
Date: 03/04/26

438 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Doloma Realty Of Chicopee LLC
Seller: Manioudakis NT
Date: 03/02/26

440 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Doloma Realty Of Chicopee LLC
Seller: Manioudakis NT
Date: 03/02/26

442 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Doloma Realty Of Chicopee LLC
Seller: Manioudakis NT
Date: 03/02/26

444 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Doloma Realty Of Chicopee LLC
Seller: Manioudakis NT
Date: 03/02/26

81 Kirby St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Brian E. McKay
Seller: McKay, Elizabeth E., (Estate)
Date: 03/05/26

103 Lauzier Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Robert Beaulieu
Seller: Jennifer L. Gonzalez
Date: 03/13/26

341 Montcalm St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $349,900
Buyer: Jeu Petterson O. A. Ribeiro
Seller: Kazimierz Borawski
Date: 03/10/26

Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Hassan Saleh
Seller: Arelia G. Tumidajewicz
Date: 03/09/26

340 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hassan Saleh
Seller: Arelia G. Tumidajewicz
Date: 03/09/26

16 Sesame Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Ryan Brunelle
Seller: Eugene Kida 2023 RET
Date: 03/11/26

57 Stearns Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Ibweam LLC
Seller: Deren RT
Date: 03/09/26

29 Sunnymeade Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $309,900
Buyer: Richard R. Lafleur
Seller: Carl D. Roy LT
Date: 03/02/26

90 West St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: 346 Britton Street LLC
Seller: Hathi Nguyen
Date: 03/06/26

EAST LONGMEADOW

55 Allen Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Susan J. Austin
Seller: Jonathan D. Stone
Date: 03/13/26

62 Baymor Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Huy Quoc Nguyen
Seller: Ebak Projects LLC
Date: 03/11/26

101 Dearborn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Dennis Henriques
Seller: Trevor Devine
Date: 03/06/26

118 Hampden Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Pro Olive LLC
Seller: Lisa L. Scarnici
Date: 03/13/26

46 Holland Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Anthony Monteiro Gomes
Seller: Elite Home Creation LLC
Date: 03/05/26

15 Lynwood Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Aaron Champagne
Seller: Cash Solution LLC
Date: 03/02/26

171 Maple Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Karen S. Nash
Seller: Roy F. Gelineau
Date: 03/10/26

123 Mountainview Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Jason Van Buren
Seller: Brian L. McClelland
Date: 02/25/26

25 Pembroke Ter.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Michael J. Grossane
Seller: Basile FT
Date: 03/02/26

3 Princeton St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Frank Daniele
Seller: Luis Gutierrez
Date: 03/11/26

101 Smith Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Shaukat Matin
Seller: Francis A. Desautels RET
Date: 03/06/26

HAMPDEN

534 Main St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Mass. Postal Holdings LLC
Seller: Hatch Property Mgmt. LLC
Date: 03/10/26

95 Martin Farms Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Bryce Gore
Seller: Sean D. Gore
Date: 03/06/26

HOLLAND

2 Farrar Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Wendy M. Tomlinson
Seller: David J. Gates
Date: 03/10/26

7 Hisgen Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $443,000
Buyer: Seth Finley
Seller: Jane A. Corriveau
Date: 03/02/26

HOLYOKE

72 Allyn St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: Nivian A. Lopez Molina
Seller: Steven A. Smith
Date: 03/12/26

203 Clemente St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Clara I. Almonte
Seller: Hha-S Holyoke Home II LLC
Date: 03/10/26

28-289 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01085
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Taber & Bishop LLC
Seller: Arrow Properties Inc.
Date: 03/09/26

285 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Taber & Bishop LLC
Seller: Arrow Properties Inc.
Date: 03/09/26

365-369 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: AQ Properties LLC
Seller: Mahmood Ahmad
Date: 03/13/26

80 Lindor Heights
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Kathryn M. Zweir
Seller: Cameron C. Zweir
Date: 03/05/26

1684 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Travis Thompson
Seller: Gallagher Properties LLC
Date: 03/11/26

457 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: R. & R. Home Improvement & Remodeling
Seller: Holubecki, Alfred J., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

9 Owens Place
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $122,000
Buyer: Round Two LLC
Seller: Atom Fox
Date: 03/06/26

140 Sycamore St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Rosalynn Hyatt
Seller: Property Advantage Inc.
Date: 03/03/26

33 Vassar Circle
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $331,500
Buyer: Alice Kennedy
Seller: Bey, Rosemary T., (Estate)
Date: 03/11/26

LONGMEADOW

221 Bel-Air Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $444,900
Buyer: Waqas Bhatti
Seller: Simple Times LLC
Date: 03/05/26

203 Green Hill Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Musa Bas
Seller: Tamara Marino
Date: 03/09/26

1423 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Bryan Denny
Seller: Jose A. Cuevas Rentas
Date: 03/13/26

61 Prynne Ridge Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,096,000
Buyer: Andrew Horn
Seller: James F. Foard
Date: 03/13/26

67 Shady Side Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $680,000
Buyer: John Joseph Stout
Seller: Bobby Loguidice
Date: 03/09/26

LUDLOW

45 Canterbury St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Kleeberg
Seller: Jeffrey E. Salvador
Date: 03/09/26

88 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Michelle Batista Pires
Seller: Joe Webb
Date: 03/13/26

136 East Akard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $125,036
Buyer: David T. Lipson
Seller: Amanda D. Lipson
Date: 03/12/26

56 Glenwood St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Aldo Properties LLC
Seller: Sherry Carroll
Date: 03/05/26

42 Loopley St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $599,900
Buyer: Wisllen Queiroz Santos
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 03/09/26

140 Waverly Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Tyler Keith Markland
Seller: Mary C. Cleary RET
Date: 03/06/26

PALMER

2136 Baptist Hill Road
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $594,000
Buyer: David Depierro
Seller: Jane Belleville
Date: 03/13/26

257 Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Alex R. Bellows
Seller: Deborah M. Mackey
Date: 03/13/26

2 Carter St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $324,250
Buyer: Pamela Southam
Seller: Darrick T. Kustra
Date: 03/05/26

22 Crawford St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Alexander Cramm
Seller: Naples Home Buyers Inc.
Date: 03/05/26

29 Griffin St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Todd Peters
Seller: Jehoram RT
Date: 03/13/26

98 Mason St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Ebert Dos Reis
Seller: Ghassan K. Ghrear
Date: 03/09/26

1573 North Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: John W. Ryan
Seller: Leslie M. Skowyra
Date: 03/13/26

1575 North Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: John W. Ryan
Seller: Leslie M. Skowyra
Date: 03/13/26

1682 North Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Omar Richards
Seller: Sheila Marin
Date: 03/04/26

2064 Oak St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Trever Heffernan
Seller: Sarah M. Morcom
Date: 03/03/26

SPRINGFIELD

100 Abbott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $333,000
Buyer: Leahnora Anderson
Seller: Hassle Free LLC
Date: 03/02/26

305 Bicentennial Hwy.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $7,700,000
Buyer: Springfield 305 MP Wrk7 LLC
Seller: Welltower OM Group LLC
Date: 03/12/26

867 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Unique Design Real Estate LLC
Seller: Linda F. Ronen
Date: 03/05/26

106-108 Breckwood Circle
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Manuela Olivares
Seller: Emtay Inc.
Date: 03/06/26

235 Cadwell Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $3,250,000
Buyer: 235 Cadwell Drive LLC
Seller: Neslo Realty Co.
Date: 03/11/26

90 Cambridge St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $290,500
Buyer: Matthew L. Torres
Seller: CG Estates LLC
Date: 03/06/26

809 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Aimia Humiston
Seller: Onstar Properties AA LLC
Date: 03/03/26

131 College St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Oakland Street Properties LLC
Seller: Aclesia L. Scotland
Date: 03/02/26

231 Dayton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Marlana J. Haas
Seller: John J. Camardella
Date: 03/03/26

150 Drexel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Wilfredo J. Semidey
Seller: James L. Hernandez
Date: 03/10/26

51-53 Eloise St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Joedy Leonardo Cruz
Seller: Nolava LLC
Date: 03/04/26

98 Fox Wood Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Mariah McNamara
Seller: Stephanie Garner
Date: 03/06/26

128 Hadley St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Emily Agnello
Seller: Daniel Ayres
Date: 03/04/26

23 Harper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $195,908
Buyer: Rachael Digiovanni
Seller: Sarah J. Bousquet
Date: 03/13/26

11 Herman St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Sarah Condon
Seller: Minh Lam
Date: 03/11/26

26 Huntington St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Nishant Mathur
Seller: Ravello Rosa Realty Investors LLC
Date: 03/06/26

281 Laurelton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Veteran Stan LLC
Seller: Darlene Smith-Ash
Date: 03/10/26

151 Littleton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Dahiana M. Carrasquillo
Seller: Anthony M. Santaniello
Date: 03/13/26

485 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Evc Properties LLC
Seller: Dgg Realty Partnership LLP
Date: 03/06/26

111 Malibu Dr.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Tanya Marie Williams
Seller: Lumturi RT
Date: 03/06/26

70-72 Manhattan St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Francisco Perez
Seller: Darinel Marte-Diaz
Date: 03/06/26

37 Middlebrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Darlin Nahun A. Erazo
Seller: Poirier, Amanda R., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

9 Murray Hill Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Marcelo Gabriel B. Goveia
Seller: Robert S. Allen
Date: 03/13/26

170 Newton Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: 1 Oak Enterprises LLC
Seller: Bertera Jr., Norman R., (Estate)
Date: 03/04/26

27 Nokomis St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Ezequiel J. Cintron Roman
Seller: Virgilio Santos
Date: 03/05/26

47 Notre Dame St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Sell 2 Us LLC
Seller: Gregory M. David
Date: 03/05/26

103 Ontario St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Nick Hurley
Seller: Gillian Peters
Date: 03/13/26

30 Parkwood St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $339,900
Buyer: Paula A. Knott
Seller: Naylor Nation Construction LLC
Date: 03/02/26

67 Perkins St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Sarah Strangie
Seller: Brian J. Nolan
Date: 03/11/26

 

82-84 Phillips Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $281,348
Buyer: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Seller: John Reilly
Date: 03/05/26

59 Pine Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Luis A. Negron
Seller: Cig2 LLC
Date: 03/13/26

97-99 Pine Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Joshua Lantigua
Seller: JoeJoe Properties LLC
Date: 03/13/26

59-61 Pinevale St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Andre Ferdinand
Seller: Raddy O. Nunez
Date: 02/19/26

163 Powell Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Mmm Home Buyers LLC
Seller: Ryan J. Lussier
Date: 03/06/26

27 Regal St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Tyler Carlo
Seller: Judith F. Kennedy
Date: 03/02/26

251 Rosewell St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $293,000
Buyer: Denise A. Bartels
Seller: Erik D. Petkus
Date: 03/04/26

19 Quincy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: William Benjamin Brown
Seller: Janusz Lecko
Date: 03/10/26

229 Quincy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Ihi Wave LLC
Seller: James Hwang
Date: 03/13/26

173 Russell St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Kelly Taylor
Seller: Miciel Mariano
Date: 03/12/26

102 San Miguel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Noel Investment Group LLC
Seller: Nancy Rygiel
Date: 03/11/26

50-52 Savoy Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Tikiko Gomez
Seller: J. Brown & Associates Inc.
Date: 03/11/26

54 Seymour Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Francheska Reveron Warren
Seller: Silva, Emilia, (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

91 Spikenard Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Mrd Profit Sharing TR
Seller: Darrell K. Williams
Date: 03/11/26

15-17 Sycamore St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Charlie Rodriguez Otero
Seller: RM Blerman LLC
Date: 03/13/26

114-116 Sylvan St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Roselyn M. Ayala
Seller: Chandler C. King
Date: 03/13/26

208 Tamarack Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Evan Forte
Seller: Elaine Fitchet
Date: 03/03/26

47 Thorndyke St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Manchester Enterprises LLC
Seller: Linda A. Bianchi
Date: 03/06/26

115 Tiffany St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Marzena K. Sochacka Medina
Seller: Maureen Cratty
Date: 03/13/26

97 Treetop Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Centura Bay LLC
Seller: Evelyn M. Moore
Date: 03/09/26

107 Tyler St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Patricia Lara
Seller: Feliciano Associates LLC
Date: 03/03/26

47 Victoria St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $261,000
Buyer: Craig R. Godbolt
Seller: Hassle Free LLC
Date: 03/13/26

207-209 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Methuselah RT
Seller: Yotanya Hunnighan
Date: 03/05/26

35-37 Whittier St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Maria Transito G. Castro
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 03/03/26

1988 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Gilberto Marquez Robles
Seller: Stanley Clerge
Date: 03/13/26

100 Wilmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Girish Badgi
Seller: Brianne G. Summers
Date: 03/03/26

104 Wilmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Girish Badgi
Seller: Shawn Summers
Date: 03/03/26

SOUTHWICK

269 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $227,000
Buyer: Yms Property Leasing & Mgmt. LLC
Seller: Fitzgerald Home Solutions LLC
Date: 03/13/26

195 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $307,000
Buyer: Nathaniel C. Goodrow
Seller: Cressotti, Ronald G., (Estate)
Date: 03/04/26

44 North Lake Ave.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Xavier R. Curtis
Seller: Kelsey Smith
Date: 03/06/26

37 Summer Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Xavier R. Curtis
Seller: Kelsey Smith
Date: 03/06/26

31 Woodland Ridge Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Jason G. Sexton
Seller: Danielle B. Sullivan
Date: 03/12/26

WALES

10 Church St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $439,000
Buyer: Shellian Forsythe
Seller: Christopher Lee Figueroa
Date: 03/12/26

WESTFIELD

12 Casimir St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: United American Muslim Association Of Western Mass.
Seller: City Of Westfield
Date: 03/02/26

44 Church St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Daniel Hitchcock
Seller: Jjs Capital Investments LLC
Date: 03/06/26

Cycle St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $382,375
Buyer: Aero Fastener Realty LLC
Seller: Cycle Street Redevelopment LLC
Date: 03/10/26

Little River Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: JG Sigma LLC
Seller: Joseph M. Bannish
Date: 03/11/26

30 Llewellyn Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Kathryn Meagher
Seller: Gaw, David J., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

14 Loring Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Matthew Keeney
Seller: Costa, Donna F., (Estate)
Date: 03/11/26

83 Mechanic St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Halifax Capital LLC
Seller: John L. Prystowski
Date: 03/04/26

38 Parkside Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: United American Muslim Association Of Western Mass.
Seller: City Of Westfield
Date: 03/02/26

163 Prospect St., Ext.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $363,000
Buyer: Benjamin S. Lepage
Seller: Clifford F. Wolfe
Date: 03/06/26

77 Ridgecrest Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Zygmont Szczawinski
Seller: Thomas E. McMahon
Date: 03/02/26

1430 Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $180,700
Buyer: Agi Home Solutions LLC
Seller: Keith E. Knowlton
Date: 03/13/26

12 Sibley Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Paul Sullivan
Seller: David Perez
Date: 03/05/26

26 Washington St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Michael D. Tirrell
Seller: Mobius Real Estate LLC
Date: 03/10/26

161 Wild Flower Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Peter Daws
Seller: Marilyn D. Orszak 2024 TR
Date: 03/13/26

WILBRAHAM

8 Crest St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $437,602
Buyer: Siwell Inc.
Seller: Stephen A. Joley
Date: 03/12/26

4-6 Dalton St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Kw Rt
Seller: Nuno M. Rodrigues
Date: 03/04/26

603 Glendale Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $710,000
Buyer: Peter Cain
Seller: Jodee M. Giroux
Date: 03/06/26

5 Northwood Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $439,000
Buyer: Brianna Gallucci
Seller: James Moriarty
Date: 03/10/26

56 Weston St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Hazel Zebian
Seller: Johnsonski, Barbara, (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

WEST SPRINGFIELD

144 Almon Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jocelyn Emily Rivas
Seller: Fay, Christine L., (Estate)
Date: 03/12/26

750 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Mary Ann Theresa Biza
Seller: Matthew Stetson
Date: 03/11/26

65 Churchill Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $456,000
Buyer: Brian K. LaPointe
Seller: Barbara J. Gasperack
Date: 03/13/26

183 Craiwell Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Debra Ann Zides
Seller: Hall, Diane E., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

43 Houston Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Alyssa C. Montagna
Seller: Nusret Senderovic
Date: 03/06/26

Hyde Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Nafees Awan
Seller: John G. Kudlic
Date: 03/02/26

31 North Blvd.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Fatema Alhussein
Seller: Mark J. Walachy
Date: 03/06/26

67 Redden Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Ryan Berthiaume
Seller: Ahmed Qays Aljarrah
Date: 03/06/26

62 Talcott Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Cornerstone Homebuying LLC
Seller: Bette-Jo Clark
Date: 03/13/26

29 Webster Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $343,000
Buyer: Alicia Melinda Gonzalez
Seller: Arianna R. Palazzi
Date: 03/10/26

88 West St.
West Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Domenic Amato
Seller: Michele L. Minniear FT
Date: 03/13/26

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: A1n1 LLC
Seller: Christine Acker
Date: 03/06/26

11 Overlook Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $600,400
Buyer: David Schmidt
Seller: Preston Dortch
Date: 03/05/26

60 Overlook Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $725,660
Buyer: Claire Rosalinda Chester
Seller: Todd V. Walker
Date: 03/02/26

60 Red Gate Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $1,280,000
Buyer: Jonathan Blanchard
Seller: Christian G. Appy
Date: 03/13/26

1730 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: 1730 South East St. LLC
Seller: Jason R. Edwards
Date: 03/05/26

141 Tracy Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Aung Win
Seller: Arpc LLC
Date: 03/13/26

39 Valley Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Liam Carolan
Seller: Suen, Yu-Van, (Estate)
Date: 03/03/26

BELCHERTOWN

285 Granby Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $427,500
Buyer: Dade Scolardi
Seller: B. & B. Realty Partners LLC
Date: 03/06/26

17 Maple St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Sydney Jade Tonelli
Seller: Andrew P. Boyko
Date: 03/03/26

164 Railroad St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Corey J. Miller TR
Seller: Randy Hoffman
Date: 03/09/26

EASTHAMPTON

7 Lawndale St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Jaimie A. Golec
Date: 03/13/26

HADLEY

65 Chmura Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: John A. Pliska
Seller: Veteran Stan LLC
Date: 03/03/26

424 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $4,134,400
Buyer: 424 Hadley LLC
Seller: Hadley Investment Partners LLC
Date: 03/06/26

 

HATFIELD

Old Barnstable Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Christine Eck
Seller: Laura Lee Drouin-Bertram
Date: 03/05/26

205 Old Barnstable Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $241,000
Buyer: Revive & Rise LLC
Seller: Peter Scherff
Date: 03/02/26

NORTHAMPTON

214 Audubon Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $406,500
Buyer: James E. Foster
Seller: Collins, Lee Mary, (Estate)
Date: 03/11/26

412 Burts Pit Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: James M. Haug
Seller: Jean M. York
Date: 03/09/26

53 East Center St.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $580,000
Buyer: Charlotte F. Hazard
Seller: Jacob N. Masenior
Date: 03/05/26

14 Fruit St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Ace Reinhardt Tayloe
Seller: Elizabeth L. Mackenzie
Date: 03/03/26

35 Hubbard Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $498,000
Buyer: Mark Lindsay
Seller: Americamp Realty LLC
Date: 03/11/26

751 Park Hill Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $629,000
Buyer: Samuel G. Taylor
Seller: Clifford Madru
Date: 03/06/26

SOUTH HADLEY

24 Grandview St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: John Mcmahon
Seller: Michael Nicholson
Date: 03/02/26

293 Morgan St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Scott Family Prop LLC
Seller: Sard, Frederick M., (Estate)
Date: 03/04/26

10 Young Circle
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Joanne Brackett
Seller: Dupuis, Carolyn J., (Estate)
Date: 03/09/26

SOUTHAMPTON

95 Gunn Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $706,000
Buyer: Peter R. Barr
Seller: Cindy L. Browning
Date: 03/03/26

WARE

84 Greenwich Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Rhiron Realty LLC
Seller: Pawlowski, Sophie C., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/26

9 Walnut St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Jmt Holdings LLC
Seller: Bernadette M. Carberry
Date: 03/13/26

WILLIAMSBURG

100 South St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $412,000
Buyer: Mark Lachance
Seller: Wentworth, Paula A., (Estate)
Date: 03/06/26

WORTHINGTON

138 Ridge Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $760,000
Buyer: Michael Browning
Seller: 95 Dalton Avenue NT
Date: 03/03/26

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of March 2026.

CHICOPEE

Stanley Szlachetka, Eric Szlachetka
10 Center St.
$32,000 — Repair damaged knee walls and glass entranceway to Unit 8 due to automobile accident

EASTHAMPTON

136 Pleasant LLC
136 Pleasant St.
$8,750 — Cladding

The Philipp Manufacturing Co.
17 Ward Ave.
$86,000 — Roofing

HADLEY

Parmar and Sons Inc.
37 Russell St.
N/A — Demolish buildings

 

LENOX

474 Pittsfield Road LLC
474 Pittsfield Road
$20,000 — Remove and replace damaged storefront and glazing

Edith Wharton Restorations Inc.
2 Plunkett St.
$789,492 — Erect pre-engineered steel building to be used as maintenance garage and offices

United Church of Christ
55 Main St.
$6,882 — Insulation and air sealing

PITTSFIELD

Ace 34 North LLC
30 North St.
$7,500 — Selective demolition to first floor

David Carver
7 North St.
$6,213 — Add four sprinkler heads to system to maintain proper sprinkler coverage within renovated area

Centro Bradley Berkshire Crossing LLC
555 Hubbard Ave.
$5,000 — Build and install galvanized steel frame awning with metal/steel roofing

City of Pittsfield
8 Holmes Road
$9,984 — Form and pour concrete pad for new standby generator; furnish and install chain link fence enclosure around generator

City of Pittsfield
232 West Housatonic St.
$119,905 — Replace failing exterior deck and install new deck, stairs, and handicap ramp

Clock Tower Partners LLC
75 South Church St.
$11,700 — Construct partition wall and door to divide single tenant into two spaces

The Cooper Center LLC
116 North St.
$15,561 — Install partition wall and door in Suite 201 to create enclosed office

O’Connell Oil Associates Inc.
480 West Housatonic St.
$105,000 — Remodel Dunkin’ Donuts, including new wall tile, stainless cabinets, and millwork

Cannabis Reforms Aim to Support Economic Growth, Maturing Market

By
Daily News

BOSTON — The Massachusetts Legislature acted to strengthen oversight and accountability of the growing cannabis industry, encourage small business growth, and responsibly modernize restrictions for consumers.

The legislation, H.5350, restructures the Cannabis Control Commission into a three-member body, removes costly requirements from cannabis businesses, and safely increases the personal possession limit to two ounces.

“This bill ensures that, as the cannabis industry grows in Massachusetts, it expands opportunity and reflects our values,” Senate President Karen Spilka said. “It opens doors for those long left out, modernizes access to safe and legal cannabis, and brings our laws in line with a maturing industry. The result is a more stable, fair, and equitable marketplace that keeps public health and safety front and center.”

House Speaker Ronald Mariano added that “this legislation not only makes needed changes to the structure of the Cannabis Control Commission, it’s also representative of the House’s commitment to ensuring that the cannabis industry in Massachusetts is regulated in a manner that bolsters economic opportunity, especially for communities that were disproportionately impacted by the criminalization of marijuana.”

The legislation streamlines the Cannabis Control Commission and makes it directly accountable to the governor, removing current complexities around the agency’s appointing authorities. By clarifying leadership responsibilities for the commission’s chair and executive director, the bill clearly sets a framework for the administration of cannabis regulations in Massachusetts.

As the cannabis sector continues to evolve, the bill encourages investment and entrepreneurship. It gradually doubles the number of licenses a business owner can hold and allows medical marijuana operators to specialize in cultivation, manufacturing, or retail sales by eliminating current costly requirements.

The bill includes a modest increase to the amount of marijuana that an adult can purchase or possess for recreational use, from one ounce to two ounces.

The legislation also directs the Cannabis Control Commission to study and make recommendations for the regulation of intoxicating hemp, which has grown in prevalence over recent years and will effectively be banned under federal law this fall absent Congressional action.

“Massachusetts has one of the most established cannabis industries in the country, and our laws need to evolve with that reality,” said state Sen. Adam Gómez, Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Cannabis Policy and co-chair of the conference committee. “This legislation strengthens oversight of the Cannabis Control Commission while making smart updates that support small businesses, improve accountability, and ensure consumers can access cannabis safely and legally. By modernizing license caps, clarifying delivery and advertising rules, and increasing transparency across the industry, we are building a more stable, equitable, and responsible cannabis marketplace for the Commonwealth.”

The legislation is the collaborative product of a conference committee — including members of both the Senate and the House — which worked for more than two months to incorporate priorities approved by each chamber. The House and Senate voted to enact the legislation and sent it to Goc. Maura Healey for her approval.

Full details of the conference committee’s report are included in a fact sheet on the Legislature’s website. Click here to read the report.

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Welcomes Abby LaValley as AVP, Branch Manager

By
Daily News

Abby LaValley

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) welcomed Abby LaValley as assistant vice president and branch manager of its Amherst branch office, located at 390 College St.

LaValley brings more than 20 years of local banking experience to the role, having previously served as an assistant manager at two community banks in the region. Her deep knowledge of the local market and commitment to customer relationships make her a strong addition to the GCB team.

A graduate of the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, LaValley holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing. In her new role, she will oversee daily operations at the Amherst branch while continuing to build meaningful relationships with customers and support the financial needs of the community.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Abby to our team,” said Jackie Charron, executive vice president and chief banking officer. “Her extensive experience and strong ties to the community align perfectly with our mission of delivering personal, relationship-focused banking.”

Middle School Scientists Head to MCLA for Region I Science Fair

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will host the Massachusetts Region I Middle School Science Fair on Wednesday, April 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Amsler Campus Center Gymnasium. The event is open to community members who wish to attend.

The event brings together approximately 110 middle school students from across the region to showcase their original research projects. Seven schools are participating this year: BART Charter School, Hoosac Valley Middle School, St. Agnes School, Pioneer Valley Chinese Immersion School, Greenfield Middle School, Drury Middle School, and John F. Kennedy Middle School.

Students will present approximately 50 projects across five STEM categories: biology, chemistry, physics and engineering, environmental science, and behavioral and social science. Projects will be evaluated by a panel of approximately 30 judges, including MCLA faculty, staff, and students, as well as representatives from McCann Technical High School, Berkshire Museum, Flying Cloud, Fuss and O’Neill, and Williams College.

“Participation in the middle school science fair introduces students to the practice of scientific research, and gives us a chance to celebrate their work,” said Ann Billetz, professor of Biology. “It also gives students the opportunity to spend the day on a college campus and interact with faculty, undergraduate students, and STEM mentors.”

Holyoke Mall to Host Get Hired Job Fair on April 16

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Job seekers across Western Mass. are headed to Holyoke Mall to advance their careers during the Get Hired Job Fair on Wednesday, April 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. on the lower level in Macy’s Court.

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

A diverse range of Western Massachusetts businesses are participating in this spring’s job fair. Participating employers include: Army Recruiting Springfield, Baystate Health, Berkshire County Arc, Best Buy, bankESB, Florence Bank, Holyoke Public Schools, Lane Bryant, MassHire Holyoke, Massachusetts Veterans Home at Holyoke, Massachusetts Army National Guard, McNair Packaging, New York Department of Corrections, Positive Regard Network, Springfield Public Schools, U.S. Air Force, Valley Opportunity Council, Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital, Viability, YMCA of Greater Springfield, and more, including select Holyoke Mall tenants.

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

STCC Board of Trustees Names Three Finalists for Presidential Search

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) board of trustees announced the selection of three finalists in its search for the next STCC president.

A presidential search committee, composed of representatives from STCC students, faculty, and staff; the local community; and the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education, recommended the candidates to the board of trustees. The search process was assisted by Pauly Group Inc. The finalists are:

• Jennifer Cournoyer, vice president of Academic & Student Affairs at River Valley Community College in Claremont, N.H.;

• Albert Lewis Jr., former chief of staff and executive vice president at Northwest State Community College in Archbold, Ohio; and

• Irene Rios, Ammerman campus CEO for State University of New York (SUNY) Suffolk County Community College and vice president for Academic Affairs for the SUNY Suffolk System.

Finalists are scheduled for on-campus visits on April 14-15 (Cournoyer), April 21-22 (Rios), and April 23-24 (Lewis). The board of trustees will schedule forums for finalists to meet with employee groups and students. After the visits, trustees will recommend to the Massachusetts Board of Higher Education a candidate as the next president of Springfield Technical Community College.

“I am grateful for the passion, energy, and engagement of our search committee who have worked very hard over many months at this important task,” said Michael Knapik, chair of the board of trustees. “Together, we are proud to present presidential finalists to the campus community. We look forward to these individuals spending time on our campus in the coming weeks and to their thoughtful interaction with our trusted stakeholders. This is an exciting time for our institution as we prepare to welcome the next president of Springfield Technical Community College.”

The new president will succeed John Cook, the college’s sixth president, who is stepping down in the summer after 10 years of service.

“We are excited to be nearing a decision on such an important leadership position,” said William Dávila, chair of the presidential search committee. “We have worked hard on the presidential search committee to have a process that leads us to the best next president. We had a quality candidate pool, and I thank the presidential search committee for their work on this process and dedication to Springfield Technical Community College.”

STCC distinguishes itself as the Commonwealth’s only technical community college, and this unique status underscores the institution’s pride and responsibility in providing career education and pathways to its diverse student body.

This search will identify a leader who will build on STCC’s recent successes, including the substantial expansion of community access to health programs through the establishment of the Health Science Program, the launch of the Richard E. Neal Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, and the funding and planning for the relocation of the School of Health and Patient Simulation.

More information about the search process, including biographies of finalists, can be found at stcc.edu/about-stcc/employment/presidentialsearch.

Financial Advisor Laura Townes Receives Edward Jones Spirit of Caring Award

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Laura Townes, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Northampton, recently received the firm’s exclusive Spirit of Caring Award, designed to recognize financial advisors who exemplify the values, culture, and spirit of giving back.

Townes has demonstrated unyielding dedication to giving back, which has positively impacted her clients, colleagues, and community. The award is given to only one financial advisor in each of the firm’s 334 regions and is determined by a vote of their peers.

“Edward Jones is a partnership. That structure is not just financial; it’s a philosophy,” Townes said. “We work together, help each other, and all share in the rewards of working with long-term individual investors. That brings out the best in everyone. I am humbled to be this year’s recipient of the Spirit of Caring Award.”

Townes was presented with the award at her Edward Jones regional meeting in Hampden.

Wistariahurst Museum to Host Mother’s Day Market, Plant Sale on May 2

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Wistariahurst Museum will welcome spring with its second annual Mother’s Day Market on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event features a variety of vendors selling locally made products such as art, jewelry, and food.

Vendors will be stationed indoors throughout the first floor of the museum. As guests shop and explore, the Brookline Trio will play live music for visitors to enjoy. Guests are welcome inside the Carriage House as well, where they can shop the gift shop, take photos in the carriage, and view the frog circus.

During the event, visitors can also participate in a free hands-on clay experience and cup exchange with Pots on Wheels. The Pots on Wheels truck will be parked in Wistariahurst’s driveway, ready for guests to come on board and get creative.

During the Mother’s Day Market from 10 a.m. to noon, Wistariahurst’s gardeners will host the first on-site plant sale of the season. Witariahurst has an array of annuals and perennials to brighten up any garden. Best of all, visitors can take home one plant for free (while supplies last) thanks to bankESB, which is sponsoring this event.

“Wistariahurst Museum’s Mother’s Day Market offers something for everyone. From plants to textile pieces and prints, vases, and home décor, you’re bound to find something your parent will love,” the museum stated.

This event is free and open to the public, but registration is encouraged by clicking here.

Belt Technologies Announces Retirement of President Alan Wosky

By
Daily News

Alan Wosky

AGAWAM — Belt Technologies, a manufacturer of PureSteel custom metal belt conveyor solutions, announced the retirement of President Alan Wosky after more than three decades of leadership.

A Navy veteran who served as a machinist mate 1st class qualified in naval nuclear power plants, Wosky has been central to the company’s growth, innovation, and engineering excellence. He guided Belt through major advancements in precision metal belt systems, expansion into global markets, and the development of a strong technical culture that continues to define the company today.

“Working at Belt Technologies has been the privilege of my career,” Wosky said. “My years in the Navy taught me discipline, problem solving, and the value of teamwork, and those lessons have shaped how I approached leadership at Belt. I am proud of what we have built together and confident that the company is well-positioned for the future.”

Belt Technologies CEO Denis Gagnon praised Wosky’s longstanding contributions. “Al’s leadership has shaped Belt in ways that will last far beyond his tenure,” Gagnon said. “His engineering expertise, commitment to quality, and steady approach to operations have strengthened our company and our relationships with customers worldwide. We thank him for his service to Belt and to our country and wish him the very best in his retirement.”

Following his retirement, Wosky’s responsibilities have been assumed by the Belt management team, with oversight from Rich Lunden, director of Engineering.

Quaboag Hills Chamber to Present Open House, Member Showcase on April 29

By
Daily News

PALMER — In December, the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce relocated its office operations to a new rented space at Pathfinder Tech’s Four Corners building at 191 Sykes St. in Palmer.

The building is the former Country Bank Four Corners branch and is now home to many of Pathfinder Tech’s Adult Continuing Education programs, as well as weekly meetings by the chamber’s Quaboag Referral Group, which will sponsor an open house and member showcase on Wednesday, April 29 from 5 to 7 p.m., an event that will also feature music, food, and giveaways.

The public is invited to see the former bank building renovations that have taken place and interact with more than a dozen businesses and organizations that will be set up both indoors and outside, promoting their products and services. Those businesses include the Valley’s Classic Hits, Quaboag Referral Group, Behavioral Health Network, Bucha Bros, Cedarbrook Village at Ware, Christopher Heights of Belchertown, Gray Craig Farm, Hardwick Vineyard & Winery, Holiday Inn Express Ludlow, J. Stolar Insurance Agency, Pathfinder Tech, Ravage Designs, Roberts & Ludlow Printing, the Quaboag Valley CDC and BAC, Steaming Tender Restaurant, and more.

“We are proud to celebrate our new location and provide visitors with a fun setting to interact with the Quaboag Hills business community at this free event,” said James Przypek, CEO of the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce. “By bringing our region’s diverse entrepreneurs and established industry leaders together, we’re creating a unique space for residents and fellow professionals to discover the incredible talent right here in our own backyard. We invite everyone to join us to experience firsthand the collaborative spirit that drives our local economy forward and to see why there’s never been a better time to be open for business in the Quaboag Hills.”

Guests are welcome to RSVP on the Chamber’s website, qhma.com, or stop in at their leisure during the open house.

TommyCar Auto Group Announces 2026 Tom Cosenzi Scholarship

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — TommyCar Auto Group announced that nominations and applications are now officially open for the 2026 Tom Cosenzi Scholarship. Graduating high school seniors across Hampshire, Hampden, and Franklin counties have until 11:59 p.m. on May 31 to submit their applications for a chance to receive one of three $2,500 awards toward their college, university, or trade school education. Apply at www.tomcosenzischolarship.com.

Since its founding, the Tom Cosenzi Scholarship Fund — established in loving memory of Cosenzi, the beloved founder of TommyCar Auto Group, who passed away in 2009 — has awarded more than $65,000 to exceptional local students, young men and women who carry his spirit of generosity, community, and excellence into everything they do.

“This scholarship is our most personal way of giving back,” said Carla Cosenzi, president of TommyCar Auto Group. “Every year, we are humbled by the caliber of students who apply. My dad believed deeply in this community, and honoring his legacy by investing in its future leaders is something we take tremendous pride in.”

This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors who reside in Hampshire, Hampden, or Franklin county; plan to attend a two-year college, four-year university, or accredited trade school; and demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and meaningful community involvement.

Applicants are required to submit a one-page essay detailing why they are deserving of the scholarship and what their future plans hold. Supporting materials, including transcripts, résumés, letters of recommendation, portfolios, and records of community involvement, are strongly encouraged and can make the difference in a competitive field.

Three outstanding students will each receive $2,500 to help fund their education. Past recipients have gone on to attend institutions including Yale University, UMass Amherst, Brown University, the University of New England, and Worcester Polytechnic Institute, and have pursued careers in medicine, engineering, business, science, and public service.

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Launches Food Drive

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Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank is sponsoring a non-perishable food drive at its Northampton and Florence branches to benefit Rachel’s Table, while its two Greenfield offices are hosting a food drive to support Faith Church. The drives run now through the end of April, with donations supporting Rachel’s Table and Faith Church’s efforts to nourish and strengthen the community.

“Rachel’s Table does such vital work here in Western Massachusetts, making sure our community is well-nourished with healthy food options,” said Jenicca Gallagher, branch manager of the bank’s Northampton branch. “We’re thrilled to support their mission and help make it a little easier for them to continue feeding our neighbors.”

Requested items include protein bars, trail mix, bottled water, dried fruit, nuts, and Gatorade — foods that are nutritious, easy to store, and helpful for meal and outreach programs.

“We’re always looking for ways to give back,” said Cindy Gonzalez, branch manager of the bank’s Greenfield branch office located at 277 Federal St. “This food drive benefiting Faith Church is a simple way for us to come together and support members of our community.”

Monson Savings Bank Welcomes Jacob Johnson as Assistant Branch Manager

By
Daily News

Jacob Johnson

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank announced that Jacob Johnson has joined the bank as assistant branch manager of the Hampden branch.

Johnson brings a strong background in customer-focused relationship management and financial services to Monson Savings Bank. In his role, he supports the day-to-day operations of the Hampden branch, assists with staff development, and works directly with customers to provide a full range of personal and business banking solutions. He is focused on delivering personalized, attentive service that fosters trusted, long-term customer relationships.

“We are happy to welcome Jacob to the Monson Savings Bank team,” said Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “His strong customer service background, financial experience, and dedication to community values make him a great fit for our Hampden branch and the customers we serve.”

Prior to joining Monson Savings Bank, Johnson spent six years locally with Balise Ford of Wilbraham, most recently serving as a Finance and Insurance manager. In that role, he developed extensive experience assisting customers with financing options, financial products, and relationship-based service — skills that align with the core of Monson Savings Bank’s community banking approach. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Westfield State University.

Johnson is actively involved in the community. He and his family support the YMCA of Greater Springfield, where his children participate in youth programs. He is also a dedicated supporter of Empty Arms Bereavement Support, participating annually in the organization’s Syrup Stampede 5K to raise awareness and funds for families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss. In addition, he has quickly become engaged in Monson Savings Bank’s outreach initiatives focused on strengthening customer and community relationships.

“I am thrilled to join Monson Savings Bank and serve the community where I live and am raising my family,” Johnson said. “I value being part of a bank that truly puts people and community first. I look forward to building lasting relationships with our customers, helping them achieve their financial goals, and contributing to the bank’s proud tradition of giving back to the neighborhoods we call home.”