Home Articles posted by BusinessWest Staff (Page 157)

HCC Offering New Round of Free Hotel Job Training 

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Daily News

HOLYOKE – Interested in jumpstarting a career in the hospitality industry? Holyoke Community College is running a free, seven-week hotel training program starting April 26.  

The hands-on, in-person classes for hotel front-desk workers and hotel room attendants will take place in HCC’s hotel training lab on the second floor of the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute on Race Street in downtown Holyoke.

The program runs on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 5:30-8:30 p.m., April 26 through June 9. 

The course will provide students with up-to-date knowledge of the hotel industry, hands-on experience for front desk and/or room attendant roles, workplace skills, resume building, interviewing, job search assistance, and connections to local employers. 

HCC’s hotel lab was equipped using $35,000 from a 2019 Massachusetts Skills Capital Grant, which funds purchases for educational initiatives linked to workforce needs.

HCC ran its first round of free hotel industry training in February and March.

The lab is set up like a hotel reception area with a front desk and adjoining guest room and equipped with the most modern technology and software. 

“The hotel lab gives students the ability to learn in a model hotel room and reception lobby, gain knowledge about key card access systems, and understand point-of-sale technology,” said Jeff Hayden, HCC vice president of Business and Community Services. “This is the kind of experiential training employers are asking for.”

No high school diploma or GED/HiSET test is required for admission.

Offered as part of HCC’s Business & Workforce Development division, the hotel training course is free to qualifying applicants. 

For more information, contact Laura Smith, HCC job placement assistant and career development counselor, at [email protected] / (413) 552-2833, or fill out the inquiry form at hcc.edu/job-ready.

Baystate Medical Center Re-Opens Blood Donor Center

By
Daily News

 

SPRINGFIELD — As the cases of COVID-19 subside in the community, Baystate Medical Center has re-opened its Blood Donor Center to the public.

 The Blood Donor Center is located in the hospital’s Daly Building at 759 Chestnut St. in Springfield. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Fridays from 8 a.m. to noon. Appointments are necessary by calling 413-794-4600.

 Only red-blood cell donations are being accepted at this time, and no platelets. Also, the Baystate Blood Donor Mobile for blood drives is currently not in service.

 The re-opening comes on the heels of a nationwide blood shortage in January primarily due to the surge of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, winter months when blood donations are at their lowest, and staffing limitations that caused the closure of many donor centers nationwide and cancelled blood drives.

 Dr. Chester Andrzejewski, medical director, Transfusion Medicine Services at Baystate Medical Center, noted that staff members appreciate the level of interest and the return of donors to the hospital’s Blood Bank collection efforts.

 “The re-activation of our Blood Donor Center has already contributed greatly to our local inventory supplies,” said Andrzejewski. “As we continue to navigate the challenges imposed by the pandemic on our operations, the commitment of our donors encourages all of us in the work we do.

 “By donating blood, an individual becomes a hero to someone by making sure there is blood on our shelves when a patient desperately needs it,” he added. “With just one donation that one individual can help save many lives.”

 Every day in America, about 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed in hospitals and emergency treatment facilities for patients with cancer and other diseases, for organ transplant recipients, and to help save the lives of accident victims. And every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and/or platelets.

 At Baystate Health, 100% of all blood and platelet donations made to its Blood Donor Program are used locally in Western Mass. More than 5,000 patients at Baystate receive more than 18,000 transfusions of blood products each year.

 Donors must be at least age 17, weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, and have a photo ID. Donors are able to give blood every eight weeks.

 Masks are required to enter the hospital and to donate blood. Scheduling appointments ahead of time also ensures that the Blood Donor Center is not overcrowded and social distancing efforts are in effect.

 

For more information, visit baystatehealth.org/services/blood-donor.

Country Bank Names Patrick O’Hara, Vice President, Commercial Lending Officer

By
Daily News

WARE — Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, announced that Patrick O’Hara has joined its Commercial Lending Division in Worcester.

A 17-year industry veteran with immersive client engagement, O’Hara will architect and deliver strategies to support growth in the commercial banking portfolio. O’Hara has held several positions in commercial lending and business development with SunTrust Bank, Bank of America, Santander Bank, and, most recently, Citizens Bank covering the Worcester and MetroWest Boston markets before joining Country Bank.

In his new role, he will serve Central and Eastern Mass. to support businesses throughout the region.

“Welcoming Patrick to the Business Lending Team at Country Bank is very exciting for us; he has an extensive background working with business owners to develop business plans, financing strategies, and, in the process, building long-term partnerships,” said Tom Wolcott, first senior vice president, Commercial Lending. “These partnerships define Country Bank, and Patrick is a valuable addition to our team and exemplifies our iSTEP Corporate Values of Integrity, Service, Teamwork, Excellence, and Prosperity. We are pleased that he has chosen Country Bank to be his employer of choice.”

O’Hara holds a bachelor of Arts degree from Providence College, he is accredited in Commercial Credit from Omega Performance, and has received multiple top performer and excellence awards throughout his career. He is also an avid supporter of St. Vincent De Paul and New Horizons, which supports veteran’s issues and mental health.

“I’m extremely excited to join a bank with such an impressive history of helping businesses grow and thrive in our region,” said O’Hara. “Country Bank is one of the most well-capitalized banks in the market, with a tremendous reputation for integrity and service to the community. I look forward to contributing to our continued growth and success across central and eastern Massachusetts, and beyond.”

Rocky’s Ace Hardware Purchases Nine New Stores in Ohio

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD – Rocky’s Ace Hardware, one of the country’s largest family-owned Ace Hardware dealers, has purchased the nine Ohio-based Handyman Ace Hardware stores, which have been family-owned and operated since 1939. The new Ohio stores are located in Dayton, Fairborn, Xenia, Centerville, New Carlisle, Kettering, Springfield, and Miamisburg.

Rocky’s Ace Hardware now has 47 locations in nine states.

“It is very exciting for us to be expanding into a new state and continuing the family-owned values and service Handyman customers have come to expect,” said Rocky’s Ace Hardware President Rocco Falcone. “We are also family-owned and share many of the same values as Handyman, including putting the customer first in all business actions.” 

Falcone noted that customers will see the same faces from Handyman at Rocky’s, and former owner David Grimes, who is retiring, will be integral in the transition.

Falcone also said customers will benefit from some exciting changes over the next few months including expanded Ace Rewards features, product selection and online capabilities.

“We plant roots in each of our neighborhood locations and intend to maintain this community focus in our Ohio stores,” he said. “We’re excited to be a part of the greater Dayton community.”

Former Landsdowne Dormitories Renovated into Apartments

By
Daily News

WESTFIELD — Shawna Gutowski and Maritza Zavala, of the Slope to Shore Team of William Raveis Real Estate, announced that the former Landsdowne Dorms in Westfield have been fully renovated and are officially on the market for lease under the name Landsdowne Place.

“We’re excited to make these beautifully-renovated apartments available in downtown Westfield, where residents can shop, experience downtown events, and enjoy quick access to the Columbia Greenway Rail Trail right outside their door,” said Project Manager Anthony Leroux.

The newly renovated apartments are a mixture of one bedroom/one bath and two bedroom/two bath units, which were formerly used as housing for Westfield State College students. The complex also features gym and laundry facilities on-site, as well as access to the bike trail. Apartment leases start at $1,400 per month and will require first, last, security, and credit check.

Ad Club of Western MA Opens Submissions for Annual Scholarship

By
Daily News

The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts Scholarship Committee announced that a $1,000 communications scholarship will be awarded in 2022, and applications are now available. Visit adclubwm.org/scholarships to download the guidelines and application form. In addition, the information is available by contacting the Ad Club at (413) 342-0533 or email.

 

The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts supports future generations of creative professionals with an annual scholarship. It is awarded to one or more deserving western Massachusetts high school graduates going to college to study communication arts.

 

Western Massachusetts seniors who plan to attend an accredited college or technical school to study advertising, communications, marketing, or graphic arts and will be attending in September 2022 are encouraged to apply. The scholarship must be applied against tuition and fees at the school. Candidates will be judged on academic performance, extracurricular activities, community service and/or work experience, a demonstrated interest in advertising, communications, marketing or graphic design, personal recommendations, and a letter of introduction outlining future plans.

 

Completed scholarship applications and all support materials must be submitted to the Ad Club, postmarked by April 15. Scholarship decisions are made by the Scholarship Committee of The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts and are considered final. The scholarship will be awarded in May and the recipient will be recognized at the Ad Club’s Creative Awards show in September.

BusinessTalk with Darby O’Brien, founder and principal of Darby O’Brien Advertising

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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest, in partnership with Living Local, has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 107: April 11, 2022

George Interviews Darby O’Brien, founder and principal of Darby O’Brien Advertising

BusinessWest Editor George O’Brien engages in provocative discussion with Darby O’Brien (no relation), founder and principal of Darby O’Brien Advertising. Speaking from 42 years of experience, Darby believes businesses have become too cautious in their marketing and advertising and far less willing to take on anything approaching risk — to their detriment. The give and take between the two O’Briens is must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

Sponsored by:

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Reading Success by 4th Grade Convenes Educators for Building Bridges Conference

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Reading Success by 4th Grade, Springfield’s community-wide early-literacy program, recently convened 539 Springfield early educators for the second annual Building Bridges Conference, the only city-wide professional-development conference for early educators working with children birth to kindergarten.

The full-day event featured a keynote by Junlei Li, Saul Zaentz senior lecturer in Early Childhood Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The conference featured more than 34 different presenters in the field of early education.

Conference attendees were from all different areas of early education, including Springfield Public Schools, Head Start, Square One, Springfield Partners/New Beginnings, independently owned family childcare centers, early interventionists, the Boys & Girls Club, the YMCA of Greater Springfield, and more.

The conference allowed the more than 500 participants to join in more than 32 breakout sessions throughout the day on a variety of topics, including “5 Roles Families Play in Family-School Partnership,” led by Gretchen Osodipe, founder of Co-Teach, LLC; “The Whole Book Approach,” led by Courtney Waring, director of Education at the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art; “Astronomy for Children,” led by Jenny Powers, director of the Springfield Science Museum; and “We Have Stories to Tell: Making Stories and Texts with Young Children,” with Maria José Botelho, Gretchen Hohmeyer, and Meghan Whitfield from the UMass Amherst College of Education, to name a few.

The closing plenary was given by Francia Wisnewski, director of the National Early Educator Training Center of the SEIU-ESF, an organization that focuses on providing education and training programs that empower workers, raise standards, and promote high-quality jobs in the family childcare sector.

“It is amazing to see our Springfield community rally to support the early-childhood field and give them space to come together around the very compelling content offered throughout the day,” said Chrissy Howard, manager of Reading Success by 4th Grade and organizer of the event. “We are happy to see so many early educators learning more to educate and honor the whole child and family. We celebrate our early educators and are inspired by how they collaborate to move our children forward in early language and literacy development, which is imperative for our long-term goal of all children learning to read proficiently.”

When asked for feedback, one attendee said, “there were things said in this conference that I will definitely remember and believe will make an influence and difference in my life.” Another said, “the interactive questions and leaderboard activities helped me to feel connected to the virtual conference versus just watching some Zoom classes.”

The Conference was supported by a number of community organizations and companies, with the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation and PeoplesBank as lead ‘architect sponsors.’

Reading Success by 4th Grade is a broad coalition of leaders in education, child development, business, philanthropy, and government working toward the goal of all of Springfield’s children reading proficiently by the end of third grade.

Jane Albert to Retire from Baystate Health After 20 Years

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Dr. Mark Keroack, president and CEO of Baystate Health, announced that Jane Albert, senior vice president and chief consumer officer, will retire on July 1, following 20 years of service with Baystate.

“In all of her work for the health system, she has demonstrated a steadfast focus on our communities, transformative and nurturing leadership skills, and a deep understanding of data-driven learning and improvement,” Keroack wrote in a letter to the Baystate community. “She has been a trusted partner to me and enjoys the respect of all across Baystate Health and the communities we serve as a source of timely and trusted communications that promote our vision of advancing care and enhancing lives.”

Albert joined Baystate Health in 2002 as manager of Medical Practices Marketing and developed the first marketing plan to integrate legacy physician groups into the organization known today as Baystate Medical Practices (BMP). She then expanded her scope as manager of Corporate Marketing for the whole health system. She went on to deepen her focus on the external environment in subsequent roles in Public Affairs, Strategic Communications, and Community Relations.

“Her underappreciated background in accounting led her to focus on metrics in these and subsequent roles, helping the organization adopt and embrace the value of social media and other digital technologies as vehicles to gauge the impact and reach of our communications efforts,” Keroack wrote.

Albert then returned to BMP to stand up its first Office of Physician Referral Services, with a focus on improving access to care. She was recruited back to the system level with a promotion to vice president of Philanthropy and executive director of Baystate Health Foundation (BHF). During four years at the foundation, she developed a comprehensive strategic plan that led to a more balanced portfolio of events, major gifts, and planned giving, all tracked by a dashboard of performance metrics. Her work led to significant growth in overall giving and greater diversification of BHF’s philanthropic activities.

She was promoted again in 2017 to senior vice president of Marketing, Communications and External Relations, a role which included the areas of BHF and Government & Community Relations. She brought in experienced leaders for all three areas and oversaw dramatic growth across all her areas of responsibility. Key activities included the “Advancing Care. Enhancing Lives” brand campaign, the growth of more broad and sophisticated governmental advocacy efforts, and continued growth in philanthropy.

The results of all this work, Keroack noted, included a new appreciation by the public of Baystate Health, national and international awards for marketing and communications, dramatic increases in government funding, and record charitable donations of all types to BHF.

“But it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that Jane’s leadership truly shone through,” he added. “The work of our marketing and public-relations teams positioned Baystate Health as a thought leader in a time of great public concern, with thousands of stories featured in local, statewide, and national media.”

During this turbulent period, Albert’s scope was enlarged yet again to her current role. She collaborated with other members of the President’s Cabinet to develop the health system’s 2025 Consumer Strategy with a focus on access to care, a new digital platform, and the importance of recognizing the unique needs of individual patients and families.

“The new structure includes the areas of patient experience and patient relations, with a view to coordinating our efforts across the system in order to take the hassles out and put the kindness in for every encounter with the system,” Keroack wrote. “Throughout her 20 years with Baystate Health and across her multiple and varied roles, Jane has shown an unwavering commitment to our mission of improving the health of our communities every day. She has helped us see that this mission entails recognizing and respecting the uniqueness of every individual, listening to diverse voices in the community, and elevating the experience of patient care to a level on par with our other goals of safety and quality. I will miss the energy and passion with which she advanced these worthy goals, and I will honor her time with us by pursuing the road map she has left for us with vigor.”

BFAIR Announces Licensing, Certification Renewal by Office of Quality Enhancement

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — BFAIR (Berkshire Family & Individual Resources) announced a successful review and continued licensing by the Office of Quality Enhancement (OQE), part of the Commonwealth’s Department of Developmental Services. BFAIR earned positive licensing outcomes, with the eight critical indicators reviewed meeting the standards set forth by the department. These positive outcomes resulted in a two-year licensing and certification for BFAIR’s residential, individual home support, and day and employment services.

“BFAIR’s outcomes on reviews and assessments like these are indicative of the work that we do,” said Ethel Altiery, executive director. “Receiving positive survey outcomes and consistent state licensing results speaks to our commitment to consistency in quality services.”

Rich Weisenflue, CEO, agreed. “I consider OQE’s survey a very important measure of the quality of BFAIR services, and therefore, a two-year license is an outstanding outcome. Every BFAIR member of our team should be extremely proud, as the high quality of our services is directly attributable to the hard work of each one of our employees.”

Since 1994, BFAIR has provided a wide range of services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury, and autism.

Balise Auto Continues to Drive Square One’s Campaign for Healthy Kids

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Balise Auto, a longtime Square One supporter, recently raised $4,000 to support the nonprofit agency’s Campaign for Healthy Kids. A check presentation will be held today, April 8, at 10 a.m. at Square One, 1095 Main St., Springfield.

The funds were raised through Balise’s “Tires to Inspire” initiative, through which donations were made to Square One when customers purchased a set of new tires.

“Square One does so much to set local children and their families up for success,” said Alex Balise, director of Marketing for Balise Auto. “Education and community development are at the core of our charitable giving philosophy, so we couldn’t be happier to highlight their amazing programs and continue to support Square One in their mission.”

Square One’s Campaign for Healthy Kids is a multi-year fund-development initiative focused on the agency’s commitment to providing healthy meals, physical fitness, social-emotional well-being, and a healthy learning environment.

“We love that Balise takes such a creative approach to supporting our work with children and families,” said Kristine Allard, vice president of Development & Communication for Square One. “Not only do they give generously on a corporate level, but they encourage their customers to get involved as well. That impact is far-reaching for the children and families we serve. We are so grateful for their partnership.”

Leadership Pioneer Valley Now Accepting Applications for LEAP Class of 2023

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Leadership Pioneer Valley (LPV) is now accepting applications for enrollment in the LEAP class of 2023, a regional leadership-development program. This year’s class is expected to have a fully in-person experience. Applicants are required to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

The LEAP program engages the Pioneer Valley’s most promising emerging leaders through learning, exploration, and connecting. Participants are trained in applied leadership skills by experts. They also explore critical community issues by connecting with local leaders and visiting businesses and local towns across the region. The upcoming program runs from September through May.

In its 12th year, more than 350 individuals representing more than 125 companies, organizations, and municipalities have participated. The program has filled a critical need for a leadership program that builds a network of emerging leaders to address the challenges and opportunities of the region. Fifty-three percent of alumni have a new leadership role at work, 64% have joined a new board of directors, and 99% made new, meaningful connections.

LPV is seeking applicants from all over the Pioneer Valley, including Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, representing different employment sectors. The program is made for those in nonprofits, businesses, and government who are eager to increase their leadership skills and take action to better the region.

Applicants are considered in a competitive application process that prioritizes diversity by employment sector, geography, race, gender, and sexual orientation. Emerging leaders, mid-career professionals with leadership potential, and those looking to better the Pioneer Valley should consider applying. The deadline for LPV class of 2023 applications is July 1. Applications and further information can be found at www.leadershippv.org.

Musicians of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra Plan Summer Concert Series

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — MOSSO, the Musicians of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, have announced a summer concert series of three programs, two in Springfield Symphony Hall and the third, an outdoor brass quintet program, in Forest Park in Springfield.

According to MOSSO Chair Beth Welty, “our musicians are performing concerts in April and May in Symphony Hall because the Springfield Symphony Orchestra was mandated to produce those concerts by the NLRB. But, although the musicians have been in negotiation with the SSO since late 2019, our community has not yet had a steady series of professional-quality, live orchestra programs. MOSSO is here to provide that music.

She added that “there has not been an ongoing summer pops series since the SSO performed in Westfield’s Stanley Park some 20 years ago.”

On Thursday, June 23, MOSSO will celebrate the music of the late, legendary Broadway composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim, who penned the words and music to A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Company, Follies, A Little Night Music, Sweeney Todd, Into the Woods, and others. Broadway conductor Tim Stella (of The Phantom of the Opera and Hello, Dolly!) will lead the program, joined by some major Broadway stars. The program will be announced later this month.

On Thursday, July 21, Maestro Kevin Rhodes will return to Springfield to conduct a program of light classics and music of renowned composer John Williams, whose works include Star Wars, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Schindler’s List. Rhodes will be joined by a guest soloist. This will be a benefit concert for MOSSO, so that the nonprofit organization can continue to deliver professional symphonic music to Greater Springfield and Western Mass. The program will be announced later this month.

Tickets for both Symphony Hall concerts will go on sale on May 9. To get on the mailing list for information on these programs, visit springfieldsymphonymusicians.com.

On Saturday, Aug. 13 (rain date: Sunday, Aug. 14), a MOSSO brass quintet will perform a free concert at Camp Star Angelina on Trafton Road in Forest Park. This concert will be produced for MOSSO by Bing Productions. No tickets are required.

MOSSO thanks the office of Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Amanda Spear-Purchase and the staff of Springfield Symphony Hall, and the following sponsors (to date) of the Symphony Hall performances: the Republican/MassLive, BusinessWest and the Healthcare News, WWLP-22News & the CW Springfield, the Sheraton Springfield at Monarch Place, and the Bolduc Schuster Foundation (which is underwriting tickets for music students). In addition, the Musicians of the Boston Symphony Orchestra donated funds to their MOSSO colleagues, which will be used for these concerts.

AIC’s 137th Commencement to Welcome Honorary Degree Recipient Marcella MacDonald

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) will celebrate its 137th commencement on Saturday, May 7 at 10 a.m., at the MassMutual Center in Springfield, with President Hubert Benitez presiding. Benitez takes the helm as the college’s 12th president on April 11. The board of trustees unanimously selected Benitez to lead the institution in February.

International Swimming Hall of Fame inductee and AIC alumna Marcella MacDonald will deliver the commencement address to graduate and undergraduate students and receive an honorary degree from the college. MacDonald, who graduated from AIC in 1985, will receive an honorary doctor of laws, honoris causa, awarded for outstanding achievement.

MacDonald graduated with a bachelor’s degree from American International College in 1985. While attending AIC, she credits now-retired Coach Judy Groff with welcoming her to the college that eventually led to her becoming a softball All-Conference student-athlete and an All-American honorable mention her senior year. Following completion of her undergraduate studies, MacDonald attended New York College of Podiatric Medicine in New York City, graduating with a doctoral degree.

While attending to a successful podiatric practice spanning more than 30 years that focuses on caring for the senior population, MacDonald has likewise achieved monumental athletic success. In 1994, she was inducted into the Manchester Sports Hall of Fame for softball in her hometown of Manchester, Conn. In 2005, she was inducted into the AIC Athletics Hall of Fame, also for softball. Most recently, in 2019, she was inducted into the International Swimming Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

According to MacDonald, she approaches swimming “in its purest form: one bathing suit, cap, and goggles. No wetsuits or performance enhancements.” To that end, she has conquered the English Channel, “the Mount Everest of open water swims,” she said, amassing 17 solo crossings from England to France, including three double crossings of the English Channel by herself — that is England to France, then return to England, in one shot, more than 40 miles. MacDonald holds the distinction for the most solo crossings for an American woman.

Among her international and national accomplishments, MacDonald successfully tackled Loch Ness in 2015, swimming 23 miles in just under 12 hours; the Maui Channel in six hours; and Lake Sunapee, N.H., a punishing, 10-hour qualifying swim in 60-degree water. Among other accomplishments, she has participated in the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim five times, where she was highlighted in the Discovery film The Big Swim. She has participated in the annual Swim Across the Sound to encourage past swimmers to get reacquainted with the sport. In addition, she swam the Molokai Hawaiian Channel, a feat of 17 hours, 27 minutes, 20 seconds. But, as she says, “who’s counting seconds?”

MacDonald and her wife, Janet Galya, reside in Andover, Conn., where she can frequently be spotted training for open-water swims early in the morning before patient hours and on the weekends at Connecticut state parks and the shore.

UMassFive to Host Career Fair in Hadley on April 14

By
Daily News

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union will host a career fair on Thursday, April 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. at its Hadley Branch, located at 200 Westgate Center Dr. The credit union, a nonprofit financial cooperative, invites interested applicants to learn more about working with a team of professional, upbeat, and dynamic employees who take pride in working for people’s best interests and going the extra mile to help them save time and money.

There is no pre-registration needed to attend the career fair, and walk-ins are encouraged. UMassFive asks that interested applicants bring a copy of their resume. Members of the UMassFive management team will be on site during the career fair to provide information on the credit union’s benefits package, as well as answer any questions candidates may have before applying.

UMassFive is currently looking to fill the following roles: Member Service specialist (full-time in Amherst, Hadley, and Northampton); Member Service representative floater (full-time in various Western Mass. locations); Contact Center Member Service specialist (full-time in Hadley); Contact Center representative (part-time in Hadley); video teller (ITM) agent (full-time in Hadley); and staff accountant (full-time in Hadley with remote-work possibility).

Additional opportunities are available in the Commercial Services division and Financial & Investment Services teams.

Interested applicants can learn more and apply for position openings online at umassfive.coop/careers.

Florence Bank Donates $100,000 to Basketball Hall of Fame Renovation

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Daily News

FLORENCE — Florence Bank donated $100,000 to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame to support its multi-phase, multi-year renovation, and as programming ramps up for families visiting during April vacation week, new and ongoing 50% admission discounts will be one benefit for bank customers.

The savings for those who use their Florence Bank debit card for admittance to the museum is a recent enhancement and will be an ongoing benefit of the long-term partnership the bank has with the Hall of Fame. The discount will be in effect during school-vacation week, April 18-22.

The collaboration between the bank and museum began roughly a decade ago with a Florence Bank ATM at the Hall of Fame. It has since grown to support programming of all kinds, including a Dribble Parade held by the bank several years ago to celebrate its first branch in Hampden County. Customers and community members dribbled basketballs through the streets of West Springfield in an event that also included Hall of Famer Teresa Edwards.

“We want to do our best to make sure we are taking care of the community. That’s one of the goals that we’ve had in working with Florence Bank, and we’re trying to amplify it,” said John Doleva, president and CEO of the Hall of Fame. “Florence Bank’s partnership with the Hall of Fame has played a crucial role in getting us where we are today.”

Michael Pietrzak, the Hall of Fame’s director of Partnerships, said the museum renovations began four years ago, and the bank’s gift of $100,000 came in phases over the past five years, with the final $20,000 gift made recently.

“The unique thing about the Basketball Hall of Fame is that it’s a global brand, recognized all across the world, with visitors from China and Australia. Yet, we have strong partners here in the community,” Pietrzak said. “Our relationship with Florence Bank is on top of the list.”

The bank helps make the museum and participation in its events, such as Enshrinement Weekend, more accessible to area residents, and Florence Bank partners with the Hall of Fame on events, such as a high-school tournament called the Hoop Hall Classic.

“Florence Bank was founded on the principle of neighbors helping neighbors,” President and CEO Kevin Day said. “The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame is one of our neighbors and an economic driver in our community. If you haven’t visited since it reopened, I encourage you to stop by — and use your Florence Bank debit card to enjoy the discounted admission.”

Berkshire Bank Names Ryan Shorette Senior Vice President, Retail Branch Banking

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Daily News

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced the promotion of Ryan Shorette to senior vice president, Retail Branch Banking. In this new role, he will oversee all 105 branches across Massachusetts, Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and New York. Prior to this promotion, he was first vice president, regional branch manager at Berkshire Bank for the last eight years.

“During his tenure at Berkshire Bank, Ryan has been an instrumental team leader in several markets, increasing our brand presence and deepening customer relationships,” said Lucia Bellomia, executive vice president, head of Retail Banking. “We are excited to have Ryan drive employee growth and enhance the customer experience, both critical components to the success of our Berkshire’s Exciting Strategic Transformation (BEST) plan. His deep understanding of complex financial client needs and financial data analysis will be an asset in his new role.”

Shorette has more than 25 years of retail banking experience and has held a number of leadership positions. Before joining Berkshire Bank, he worked at Bank of America and Webster Bank. He has been nominated for the New Leaders in Banking Honors Award from the Connecticut Bankers Assoc. and has a proven track record of successfully developing leaders and enhancing the customer experience. He earned his bachelor’s degree in finance from Central Connecticut State University.

Outside of work, Shorette is an active volunteer, coaching youth sports for the towns of Bristol and Plainville, Conn. He has also participated in Christmas in April, the United Way Day of Caring, and Hands on Hartford, a COVID-19 virtual event assembling comfort kits for those in need. Beyond these civic efforts, he also served as an executive board member for the American Heart Assoc. Heart Walk in Hartford, Conn.

UMass Dining To Host 11th Annual 5K Dash and Dine to Benefit Amherst Survival Center

By
Daily News

AMHERST — UMass Dining Services will host its 11th annual UMass 5K Dash and Dine on campus Saturday, April 9, at 9 a.m., after a two-year hiatus. The goal of the event is to promote health and wellness at the university while raising funds for the Amherst Survival Center. In total, UMass dining has been able to raise more than $50,000 for the center.

The 5K features a USA Track and Field-certified course to runners, walkers, and wheelchair participants. When race participants are finished, all are welcome to have lunch at the award-winning Dining Commons on campus.

“It’s fantastic to see the UMass community come together for such a great cause. We’re a big believer in building community through food, and this event is another shining example of this. I’m extremely proud of our team and what we are able to accomplish,” said Ken Toong, executive director of Auxiliary Enterprises.

The race fee is $10 for all UMass and Five College students, $15 for UMass Amherst faculty and staff, and $20 for the general public. Children age 8 and under may participate for free. This race fee includes registration and the complimentary meal at the Hampshire or Berkshire Dining Commons. Online registration ends at 11:59 p.m. today, April 6, but walk-up registration is available on race day. To register for the event or make a donation, visit runumass.com.

“We are so excited to see Dash and Dine return,” Amherst Survival Center Executive Director Lev Ben-Ezra said. “This event is such a perfect fundraiser for the center. It is all about community, everyone pitching in, and world-class cooking. A huge thank you to everyone who makes it possible and comes out to join. See you there!”

Francis Kirley to Speak at Elms College’s 91st Commencement on May 14

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — Francis Kirley, president and CEO of Nexion Health, will deliver the commencement address for the Elms College class of 2022 and receive an honorary degree. The college’s 91st commencement exercises take place on Saturday, May 14 at 10 a.m. (the academic procession starts at 9:30 a.m.) at the MassMutual Center in Springfield.

As the founder and president and CEO of Nexion Health, Kirley leads 42 skilled-nursing facilities in Colorado, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. He has more than 32 years of acute and long-term healthcare-management experience and founded Nexion to be a strong, clinically driven healthcare organization.

Kirley serves as chairman of the American Health Care Assoc. PAC and is a board member of the Louisiana Nursing Home Assoc., the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and the Warfield Development Center in Sykesville, Md. He ended a term on the Elms College board of trustees in 2021. Kirley earned his bachelor’s degree in pharmacy from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy in 1973, and completed his MBA at Western New England College in 1980.

Honorary degrees will also be awarded to Karen Keating Ansara, founder and chair of the Network of Engaged International Donors, and Sr. Maureen Ann Kervick, former administrator at Elms College, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the world.

Ansara and her husband, Jim, make grants to end global poverty with a focus on Haiti. In late 2008, she launched New England International Donors, now the Network of Engaged International Donors, a nationwide network of more than 180 philanthropists, foundations, and impact investors learning and funding to address the world’s big problems. After the 2010 earthquake in Haiti, Ansara co-founded the Haiti Fund at the Boston Foundation, now the Haiti Development Institute, which strengthens Haitian-led organizations and connects funders to them.

Kervick taught at schools in the Springfield and Providence dioceses before becoming administrator at Mont Marie Infirmary. She was director of Student Services and dean of students at Elms College, associate retreat director of Our Lady of Sorrows Monastery in West Springfield, and a nursing instructor at Springfield College. She also served as vice president of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Springfield from 1987 to 1993. She was both administrator and executive director at St. Gabriel’s Youth House in Shelter Island Heights, N.Y., and director of Programs for Catholic Charities of Greater Boston. She returned to Elms College as director of campus ministry. Currently, she is site supervisor for Passionist Volunteers International in Jamaica.

MassDevelopment Issues $9.5 Million Bond for Food Bank Construction Project

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — MassDevelopment has issued a $9.5 million tax-exempt bond on behalf of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts Inc., which will use proceeds to build and equip a 63,000-square-foot building at 25 Carew St. within the Chicopee River Business Park in Chicopee that will serve as the Food Bank’s new headquarters beginning in the summer of 2023.

Since 1986, the Food Bank has been operating from a 30,000-square-foot facility at 97 North Hatfield Road in Hatfield. Relocating to the new building will more than double the organization’s available space to store and distribute healthy food, increasing its capacity to serve community members facing food insecurity. PeoplesBank purchased the bond, which will complement funds raised for the project through New Markets Tax Credit equity and the organization’s capital campaign.

“The Baker-Polito administration is committed to working with nonprofits like the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts to end food insecurity across the Commonwealth,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy, who serves as chair of MassDevelopment’s board of directors. “We’re pleased that the city of Chicopee and the Food Bank were able to strategically utilize state funding sources, such as the MassWorks Infrastructure Program and MassDevelopment’s tax-exempt financing, in order to advance a project that will make a profound difference in the lives of people across Western Massachusetts.”

In February 2022, the Baker-Polito administration awarded a $1.6 million grant from the MassWorks Infrastructure Program to the city of Chicopee to support the relocation of the Food Bank’s headquarters to the Chicopee River Business Park.

“We are excited the Food Bank of Western Mass. has chosen the Chicopee Business Park to relocate their operations and headquarters,” Chicopee Mayor John Vieau said. “I can think of no better place in terms of access, efficiency, and accessibility than right here in Chicopee, at the crossroads of New England.”

In 2021, the Food Bank provided 11.6 million meals and reached an average of 103,000 individuals per month. The organization also provides other forms of food assistance, such as nutrition workshops, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program enrollment assistance, and education, public policy advocacy, and engagement around issues of food insecurity.

“With severe space constraints at our current facility, forcing us to turn away food donations, this critically important financing enables us not a moment too soon to build our future home and move into it,” said Andrew Morehouse, the Food Bank’s executive director.

M&T Bank Completes Acquisition of People’s United Bank

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Daily News

BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — M&T Bank, based in Buffalo, N.Y., has completed the acquisition of People’s United Bank, which is headquartered in Bridgeport, Conn., the Connecticut Post reported.

René Jones, chairman and CEO of M&T, said in a statement that the completion of the acquisition is “an important day in M&T’s history as we welcome People’s United to our family.

“People’s United is a strong strategic and cultural fit, and I am truly excited about the positive impact our combined company will have in the communities we serve,” Jones added. “Together, we have the capabilities and scale of a regional bank with the engagement model of a community-based organization to help us better serve new and existing customers, businesses and communities.”

People’s United’s headquarters in Bridgeport will now become M&T’s New England region base of operations.

With the closure of the deal, the Post reported, People’s United Chairman and CEO John Barnes will receive more than $34 million in cash, equity, and benefits, according to a proxy statement regarding the acquisition.

Western New England University School of Law Announces Interim Dean

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Beth Cohen, professor in Western New England University (WNE) School of Law and former WNE Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, has been named interim dean of the School of Law by Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost Maria Toyoda.

Cohen will provide interim leadership following the departure of current Dean Sudha Setty, who will begin her new role as dean of the City University of New York School of Law on July 1.

“Professor Cohen was the first female associate dean at our School of Law, and the longest-serving, working with three deans,” Toyoda said. “The community and I have the greatest confidence in her leadership; she’s earned our trust and proven her abilities time and again.”

A School of Law professor since 1990, Cohen has also served as director of the Legal Research and Writing Program since 1999. She was the associate dean for Academic Affairs from 2009 to 2020 and the director of the Academic Support Program from 1994 to 2008. She teaches Lawyering Skills, Externship Seminar, Professional Responsibility, and Mindfulness in Law Practice, and has written a number of articles in the areas of legal education, legal writing, civic education, and name-change law.

Cohen graduated cum laude from Suffolk University Law School and earned a diploma in Advanced International Legal Studies in Salzburg, Austria, from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge Law School. She also co-founded and co-directed the popular civic-education Mini-Law School Program at WNE.

“I’m grateful that Professor Cohen has agreed to serve as interim dean, and I look forward to working more closely with her,” Toyoda said. “She is an outstanding teacher whose service to the university is greatly appreciated. She has filled important leadership roles across the university, including serving on several university-wide committees and in her roles as faculty liaison to the First-Generation Law Student Support Group and director of the Legal Research and Writing Program.”

A search committee will be appointed to conduct a national search for a new School of Law dean. Cohen will hold her position until a new dean is appointed.

Monson Savings Bank to Host Free Community Shred Day on April 16

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Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank’s Monson branch will host a free Community Shred Day on Saturday, April 16 from 9 a.m. to noon. As in past years, Monson Savings Bank is partnering with PROSHRED of Wilbraham for this event. The bank will welcome the public to safely and securely dispose of their private documents on site.

Storing documents that contain personal information in the home can pose a serious security risk. Monson Savings Bank is encouraging local residents to shred any documents they no longer need, especially those that contain private information. The bank’s free Community Shred Day is a chance to do some spring cleaning and properly discard unwanted documents, such as tax returns, bank or credit-card statements, bills, medical records, and more.

“Our Community Shred Days are always a very popular event,” said Wil Morales, Monson branch manager and Retail Banking and Security officer. “These events … bring the community together while also promoting safety and security. We look forward to hosting this event.”

The bank’s Monson branch is located at 146 Main St. Prepackaged refreshments and giveaways will be available at the event, while supplies last.

Rotary to Launch Record-breaking Day of Service

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Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — More than 100 Rotary clubs and 4,000 Rotarians from Massachusetts and Connecticut will volunteer in their communities on Saturday, April 9 for a record-breaking Rotary Day of Service, collecting food and clothing for the homeless, refurbishing parks, building shelters, and much more.

The Rotary Club of West Springfield has partnered with the Parish Cupboard to collect a wish list of non-perishable items such as jelly, shelf-stable milk, canned and boxed food, as well as travel-sized shampoo.

Donations are being accepted now through April 8, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at two locations: the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club, 615 Main St.; or Bertera Chrysler Jeep, 539 Riverdale St., West Springfield.

With the involvement of clubs from Western Mass. and the entire state of Connecticut, the Day of Service is an unprecedented Rotary effort to improve the lives of individuals and families in the communities they serve.

“Rotarians are known for their tireless efforts to help those in need, but the Day of Service will be the single largest volunteer effort we’ve ever held in our region,” said Joanne Alfieri, governor of District 7890, which oversees 57 clubs in Western Mass. and Northern Conn.

“Literally every community in our state will be impacted by what happens on April 9,” added Jeff Krause, governor of Rotary District 7980, which oversees 63 clubs in Southern Conn. “From building houses for Habitat for Humanity in Norwich to painting an elementary school in Meriden, our projects will make a difference where help is needed most.”

The Rotary Day of Service promises to be a rewarding day of friendship and community spirit that brings together thousands of people who want to make a difference. For more information, visit www.rotarydayofservice.org.

Jeffrey Roberts Joins Bulkley Richardson

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Bulkley Richardson recently welcomed Jeffrey Roberts to the firm as counsel in the Trusts & Estates and Business practices.

Roberts has handled many sophisticated estate-planning matters and complex business transactions throughout his career. His practice will continue to focus on estate planning, trusts and estates, taxation, and estate administration, as well as corporate work and business transactions primarily for closely held companies. He also has extensive experience with advice to family-owned companies with respect to business-succession planning and representation of the owner with respect to the sale of a closely held business.

Roberts has practiced law at Robinson Donovan P.C. since graduating from Georgetown Law in 1974 and served as the firm’s managing partner for many of those years.

“Jeffrey is well-known in the community for his wealth of knowledge and his ability to build dynamic, long-term relationships,” said Dan Finnegan, managing partner at Bulkley Richardson. “He has spent a career helping his clients plan for their future, and we are honored that he chose Bulkley Richardson for his own future.”

Holyoke Community College to Lift Mask Mandate May 20

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) will lift its mask mandate on Friday, May 20, after the end of the spring 2022 semester. After that, students, faculty, staff, and visitors will no longer be required to wear masks inside campus buildings.

Summer-session classes at HCC begin on May 24. Registration for both summer and fall classes opens on Monday, April 4.

In a message to the HCC community, President Christina Royal cited the low number of new COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts as well as current mask guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and state Department of Public Health as reasons for making the shift to a mask-optional environment.

“This transition aligns with similar decisions being made at all Massachusetts community colleges this spring,” she said, while acknowledging that people may have different levels of comfort with the decision. “For many of you, this news may come as a relief. For others, you may still not feel safe without your mask. Both are understandable. I ask that, as a community, we practice our values of kindness, inclusion, and trust. I ask that we make those who continue to mask feel comfortable, respected, and welcome as part of our community. The health and safety of our community remains of utmost importance.”

Royal said the college will continue to remain flexible regarding its mask policy if future conditions should warrant revision.

“We will continue to follow the guidance of the medical community as it relates to the pandemic, remaining attentive to the unique needs of communities we serve,” she noted. “I appreciate having the opportunity to engage in conversation with many of you on this topic during recent town halls and in other forums. Like every decision, there are a variety of perspectives. I share this news now in order for our community to have maximum time for transition.”

On March 17, HCC announced that it would return to in-person graduation for the first time since 2019. HCC’s 75th-anniversary commencement will be held on Saturday, June 4 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield.

MassDevelopment Bond Helps Gándara Buy, Renovate New Corporate Offices

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — MassDevelopment has issued a $4.3 million tax-exempt bond on behalf of Gándara Mental Health Center Inc., which used the proceeds to buy and renovate a 13,200-square-foot office building at 933 East Columbus Ave. in Springfield.

The organization will relocate its corporate offices from West Springfield into the new, larger building, where it can meet increased demand for its innovative, culturally competent behavioral-health, prevention, and education services that promote the well-being of Hispanic, African-American, and other culturally diverse populations. Gándara’s services include outpatient mental-health and substance-abuse treatment for underserved communities, as well as residential and preventative services for children, adults, and families throughout Massachusetts.

The organization recently began renovations and expects to move into the facility by late spring 2022. Westfield Bank purchased the bond, which will also be used to refinance previously issued debt.

“By supporting organizations like Gándara that are enhancing access to important services, we can also help improve the social and economic well-being for all members of the community,” said Housing and Economic Development Secretary Mike Kennealy, who chairs MassDevelopment’s board of directors. “MassDevelopment has a long history of working with nonprofit organizations looking to buy facilities, add equipment, and expand services, and I want to congratulate all of those involved for making the kinds of investments that strengthen the capacity for organizations like Gándara to carry out their mission.”

MassDevelopment President and CEO Dan Rivera noted that “MassDevelopment is proud to help Gándara Mental Health Center, Inc. finance its new corporate offices in the Gateway City of Springfield that will help meet growing demand for the organization’s services. As we rebuild from the impacts of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever that people from all backgrounds have access to affordable mental- and behavioral-health resources in their community.”

Westfield Bank Vice President and Commercial Loan Officer Wayne Webster added that “Gándara Center and its staff engage in important work daily to provide culturally sensitive care to those in need, and Westfield Bank is pleased to collaborate with the agency to fund the acquisition of its new headquarters. The location at the gateway to Downtown Springfield will allow the agency to consolidate services under one roof and be more accessible to the clients it serves.”

BusinessTalk with Ira Helfand, a retired emergency room physician at Mercy Medical Center and co-chair of Physicians for Social Responsibilty’s Nuclear Weapons Abolition Committee

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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest, in partnership with Living Local, has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 106: April 4, 2022

George Interviews Ira Helfand, a retired emergency room physician at Mercy Medical Center and co-chair of Physicians for Social Responsibilty’s Nuclear Weapons Abolition Committee

 BusinessWest Editor George O’Brien interviews Ira Helfand, a retired emergency room physician at Mercy Medical Center and co-chair of Physicians for Social Responsibilty’s Nuclear Weapons Abolition Committee. The situation in Ukraine has brought new and needed attention to the matter of nuclear weapons and the need to make sure there they can never be used, said Helfand, as he discusses current efforts to bring attention to the issue and ultimate resolution to the growing problem. It’s all must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

 

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Bulkley Richardson to Present Family-business Succession-planning Webinar on April 5

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — On Tuesday, April 5 at noon, Bulkley Richardson will present session 3 of the firm’s Business Transitions webinar series. Ron Weiss, partner in the firm’s Business and Finance department, will look at family-business succession planning along with guest speaker Ira Bryck, former executive director of the Pioneer Valley Family Business Center and experienced family-owned business advisor.

Topics to be covered include management-succession issues in a family business, estate-planning issues when not all children will be involved in the business, insurance as an equalizer, ownership of non-operating business assets (such as real estate), use of buy/sell agreements, funding, valuation issues, and tales of successful family-business succession planning.

Session 4 (about preparing for a transition) will take place on Tuesday, May 3 at noon. All seessions take place via Zoom, and registration is required for each session. Visit www.bulkley.com/exit-strategies to register.

Homework House Adult Spelling Bee Set for April 28

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Homework House announced that its annual Adult Spelling Bee is back in person this year. Teams of three will gather at Open Square in Holyoke on Thursday, April 28 at 5:30 p.m. to demonstrate their spelling aptitude in this entertaining, and often comical, community event.

Former state Rep. Aaron Vega will once again emcee the evening’s activities. “We are all eager to get back out into the world and enjoy live events, and the spelling bee is certainly an event I look forward to every year,” he said. “In addition to the good-spirited competition, this is an opportunity to hear of the significant impact that Homework House is having on the students and families it serves.”

Homework House, a not-for-profit, after-school program, offers free tutoring and mentoring services to children in kindergarten through grade 6. Homework House sites are located in Holyoke’s most economically challenged neighborhoods, and more than 98% of its budget comes from charitable contributions.

Popular radio announcer Monte Belmonte will once again serve as the word reader. Virginia Dillon, executive director of Homework House, announced that this year’s judges will include Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia and City Councilor Tessa Murphy-Romboletti.

“We are so grateful for the support that we receive from the community,” Dillon said, “and we would also like to give a shout-out to our major sponsors, PeoplesBank, Westfield Bank, and Holyoke Gas & Electric.”

Team registrations can be completed online. Tickets to the event cost $25 in advance and $30 at the door and can be purchased online or from any board member or staff member of Homework House. For more information, to register a team, or to purchase tickets, visit www.homeworkhousebee.com.

Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley Wins Victory for Worker’s Rights

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — On March 25, the Department of Industrial Accidents Reviewing Board issued a major ruling concerning worker safety. In the underlying case, Pellegrini, Seeley, Ryan & Blakesley (PSRB) attorneys Thomas Downey and Ronald Kidd claimed their client suffered severe, disabling injuries as a result of the employer’s serious and willful misconduct.

After a hearing, the judge awarded the injured employee double compensation under Section 28 of the Workers’ Compensation Act on account of the employer’s misconduct. Section 28 claims are rare and often unsuccessful because of the requirement to prove a willful act or failure. The Reviewing Board affirmed the judge’s double-compensation award.

“This was a case in which an employee, in the normal performance of their duties, was badly injured by a machine he was cleaning. The action stems from the fact that the owner of the business did not inform the worker about an emergency shut-off switch which was in place to prevent this exact sort of accident,” Downey said. “The willful disregard for safety by the owner allowed us to recover double compensation for our client. This is an uncommon occurrence and shows the strength of our case, the disregard for worker’s safety, and the ability of our team to work on behalf our injured client.”

Kidd added that “this case was unique among willful and wanton cases in that it lacked the ‘coercive’ element usually present. The department found that the failure of the employer to educate its employees as to the existence of this safety device, and the removal of the key to operate it, were equivalent to forcing the employee to work in a dramatically unsafe environment.”

WNEU School of Law to Offer Virtual Expungement and Record-sealing Event on April 6

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University’s Center for Social Justice (CSJ) will host a virtual expungement and record-sealing event on Wednesday, April 6 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Those wishing to learn more about expunging and sealing records can watch presentations by activists and experts, ask questions, get a copy of their criminal (CORI) record, and/or speak with free pro bono attorneys in private breakout rooms.

Registration for this free event can be found at mavirtualexpunge.com/expungement-and-sealing.

The event is presented by a coalition of nonprofits, cannabis-industry professionals, and the Center for Social Justice at Western New England University School of Law. To learn more about the Center for Social Justice, visit wne.edu/social-justice.

The Wealth Transition Collective to Host Annual Shred Day on May 7

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — The Wealth Transition Collective of Holyoke is partnering with Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice for their annual shred day. Anyone who has financial or sensitive documents that need shredding may bring them to the VNA & Hospice of Cooley Dickinson, 168 Industrial Dr., Northampton on Saturday, May 7 from 9 to 11 a.m.

A donation of $5 per paper box will directly benefit the VNA & Hospice. Shredding will be conducted on a first-come, first-served basis until the truck is full or 11 a.m., whichever comes first. Only paper items will be accepted. For more information, visit www.twealthtc.com.

Berkshire Bank Aids Humanitarian Efforts in Ukraine

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Daily News

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced several actions it will take with its employees and customers in response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.

As a first step, the Berkshire Bank Foundation will make a $50,000 contribution to the Ukrainian Federation of America, one of the oldest Ukrainian organizations in the U.S., which is working to deliver humanitarian and medical aid. In addition, Berkshire’s donation will be leveraged in collaboration with Dorcas International Institute of Rhode Island on 401Gives Day, a statewide day of giving in Rhode Island on April 1. The bank selected 401Gives Day because it is a time-sensitive campaign that provides Berkshire the opportunity to make a greater impact by inviting the public and business community to match the bank’s contribution.

“As the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve, Berkshire Bank felt compelled to stand together and show our support as worldwide events impact all of us,” said Sean Gray, president and chief operating officer of Berkshire Bank. “Our Berkshire family has employees and customers with loved ones living in Ukraine. To strengthen our efforts, we are working to assist employees, customers, and the community by leveraging our resources and business operations to thoughtfully and strategically help individuals impacted by the invasion.”

Kathy Cloutier, Dorcas International’s executive director, added that “all of us at Dorcas International stand firm with the people of Ukraine. We have heard from our neighbors and supporters, and we agree that, given the state of affairs in Ukraine right now, we can and should serve as a catalyst for help when and where it is needed most, which is right now, on the ground in Ukraine and Poland. This 401Gives, we are proud to partner with Berkshire Bank in support of Ukrainians.”

In addition to its significant financial contribution, Berkshire Bank has implemented several actions to harness its entire business to support those impacted by the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Efforts include matched employee contributions, a supply drive and employee volunteering, and customer support, refunding outgoing wire-transfer fees to individuals sending money to family and nonprofit organizations in Ukraine.

Sourcepass Adds Suite3 to Its Portfolio of Companies

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Sourcepass announced it has added Easthampton-based Suite3 to its portfolio of IT companies focused on serving small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs). The deal is Sourcepass’ second acquisition in 30 days and will not only boost the company’s solutions targeting the financial-services industry, but also grow the company’s reach in the Northeast, expanding its footprint into 43 states.

“According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, SMBs made up 99.9% of U.S. businesses in 2020, and their employees account for almost half of the U.S. workforce. However, they often have difficulty accessing the capabilities and resources that would help them grow,” said Chuck Canton, chairman and founder of Sourcepass. “That is why Sourcepass looks for the best IT companies serving this market, like Suite3, to give SMBs tools to be competitive. It is good for the companies, good for the IT partners we select, and ultimately good for the U.S. economy.”

Suite3 provides managed network, cloud migration and management, cybersecurity, and IT support services to more than 6,000 managed customer endpoints. Its clients span more than eight industries, with a strong focus on financial services.

“As Suite3’s cybersecurity offerings became more sophisticated, the next logical step for us was to expand to offer 24/7 support and security operations. With Sourcepass’ support, we can accelerate our timeframe to offer these expanded offerings, and our clients gain additional resources through the relationship,” said Dave DelVecchio, president of Suite3. “One of the things at the core of our business model is an obsession with customer satisfaction and engagement. Once we knew Sourcepass shared that commitment and our visions were aligned, we knew they were the right partner for us. We are excited to be part of the Sourcepass family and look forward to contributing to the journey.”

As part of the transition, Suite3’s current employees will join the Sourcepass team. They will also receive institutional training and growth opportunities. In addition, the core Suite3 leadership team will remain, with new roles to help Sourcepass with its growth into the financial-services industry and culture of customer engagement.

Current Suite3 clients will also see benefits from the new agreement. Sourcepass will extend its interactive web portal to enable 24/7, on-demand, omni-channel support to Suite3 customers, and they will have access to Sourcepass’ broad portfolio of technology solutions.

“Our goal is to be the leading managed service provider (MSP) for SMBs,” Canton said. “We can only do that by selecting the best partners, like Suite3 and our recent deal with NST. The next step is to implement our proven systems and operational strategies to help these companies grow and thrive so they can deliver innovative digital IT services to SMBs and help those organizations succeed.”

Hometown Financial Group to Acquire Randolph Bancorp Inc.

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Hometown Financial Group Inc., the multi-bank holding company for bankESB, bankHometown, and Abington Bank, has entered into a definitive merger agreement by which Hometown will acquire Randolph Bancorp Inc., the bank holding company for Envision Bank.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, which has been unanimously approved by both boards of directors, Randolph shareholders will receive $27 in cash for each share of Randolph common stock. The total transaction value is approximately $146.5 million. The merger is anticipated to close in the fourth quarter of 2022, subject to certain conditions, including the receipt of required regulatory approvals, shareholder approval, and other standard conditions. Randolph’s directors and executive officers who currently own, in the aggregate, approximately 7.65% of Randolph’s outstanding common shares have signed voting agreements pursuant to which they have agreed to vote their shares in favor of the merger.

As a result of the transaction, Envision Bank will merge with and into Abington Bank to create a $1.4 billion bank with 11 full-service retail locations across the South Shore, including the towns of Abington, Avon, Braintree, Cohasset, Holbrook, Marion, Randolph and Stoughton. Envision’s mortgage division also has lending centers in North Attleboro and Quincy as well as two mortgage offices in Massachusetts and one in Southern New Hampshire. As part of the merger agreement, at closing, Hometown will add at least one Randolph director to the Hometown and Abington Bank boards of directors.

The transaction will expand Hometown’s market presence in eastern Massachusetts. Following completion of the transaction, Hometown will have consolidated assets of approximately $4.4 billion and a branch network of 38 full-service offices across Massachusetts and northeastern Connecticut.

“With the addition of Envision Bank, we more than double our full-service locations and assets in eastern Massachusetts,” said Matthew Sosik, CEO of Hometown Financial Group Inc. “We are very excited to share the significant resources of Hometown Financial Group with the employees and customers of Envision Bank.”

Abington Bank President and CEO Andrew Raczka added that “Envision Bank customers will enjoy our enhanced products and services, and our business customers will benefit from an increase in lending capacity.”

This transaction will be the sixth strategic merger for Hometown in the last seven years. In 2015, Hometown acquired Citizens National Bancorp. Inc., based in Putnam, Conn., and then merged with Hometown Community Bancorp MHC, the holding company for Hometown Bank, in 2016. It then acquired Pilgrim Bancshares Inc. and Abington Bank in 2019, and later that same year merged Millbury Savings Bank with and into bankHometown.

“Our holding company structure brings the best of both worlds to our customers, employees, and communities,” Sosik said. “Each bank has deep roots in the neighborhoods they call home, so each can operate independently to harness its own local branding power while taking advantage of our extensive shared resources that take advantage of size, scale, and efficiency.”

Sosik said Hometown Financial Group will continue to seek out additional strategic acquisitions and partnerships with like-minded financial institutions.

“We are very pleased to have reached this agreement. Our shared values and complementary business models make this an ideal partnership,” said William Parent, president and CEO of Randolph Bancorp Inc. “Both organizations are highly respected as leaders in the community, and we believe Hometown Financial Group’s focus on innovation and technology will help meet the evolving needs of customers of both Hometown Financial Group and Envision Bank by providing greater access to digital banking tools and an expanded branch network. These enhancements will improve the customer experience and create a stronger banking competitor in Eastern Massachusetts.”

BFAIR Earns Three-year CARF Accreditation

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Berkshire Family & Individual Resources (BFAIR) received a three-year Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation for its Day Habilitation and Adult Family Care (AFC) services. The accreditation extends through 2025.

During the accreditation process, the CARF surveyors noted that “BFAIR has a solid reputation with funders and referral agencies that express appreciation for this collaborative, transparent, and respectful approach as a community partner providing quality services and supports. BFAIR often leads the way in the state with its approaches.”

Pete Mirante, BFAIR board chair, noted that “our AFC, Day Habilitation staff, case managers, directors, and caregivers are to be congratulated for the outstanding results of the CARF survey.”

Rich Weisenflue, CEO of BFAIR, added that “I am proud of our program staff and leadership team for their commitment and dedication to offering quality, personalized, and community-based services. The accreditation outcome is even more impressive if the past two years and the challenges staff faced every day to protect the health and safety of our clients is taken into consideration.”

Region’s Cultural, Recreational Destinations Anticipate a Strong 2022

By
Special Coverage Tourism & Hospitality

Time to Shine

For the region’s large and very important tourism and hospitality sector, the past 24 months have been a long, grueling slog marked by COVID-forced restrictions, new variants impacting attendance, a workforce crisis, and large doses of uncertainty about what will come next. Pivoting has been the order of the day, and normalcy has been an elusive goal. But as winter turns to spring, with summer right on its heels, leaders of area attractions are talking optimistically about a year that seems loaded with promise. For this issue’s focus on tourism, we spoke with four of them — a casino, two cultural destinations, and an enterprise focused on the great outdoors — about why 2022 will be different, and why that matters for this region’s tourism economy.

Read the stories below:

Chris Kelly

• Amid Challenges, MGM Springfield Takes Strides Toward Normalcy

• Springfield Museums Moves Toward a Full Slate of Activities

• Shakespeare & Company Looks to ‘Sigh No More’ in 2022

•Adventure East Connects Locals with the Great Outdoors

 

 

 

Future of Work Commission Releases Report

By
Daily News

BOSTON — State Sen. Eric Lesser and state Rep. Josh Cutler unveiled the Future of Work Commission report following their final meeting at the State House this week The report and information on the commission can be found online at senatorlesser.com/futureofwork.

Of the main findings, the report highlights the need for the Commonwealth to expand existing workforce-training infrastructure, implement flexible and lifelong training, and incentivize employer participation in all stages of workforce development. Without actively addressing work-adjacent issues such as closing the childcare access gap for working families, expanding public transportation services, increasing housing options, and investing in broadband and IT, workers will be at a disadvantage for years to come.

Another integral theme of the report is equity and racial justice. Following the resounding economic and social shifts of recent years, the success of all workers is dependent on incorporating a lens of equity in all decision making.

“We’re no longer waiting for the worker of the future — they have arrived,” Lesser said. “It was a pleasure to work alongside my co-chair, Representative Cutler, as well as our 15 other fellow commissioners from all corners of the state to compile this report. The conversations and insight shared in this report provide a roadmap on how we can shape decision making and policy to shape our world around the worker of the future. Between childcare, internet access, self-care, race, and skills training, we have a heavy lift before us to meet the needs of our residents and stay competitive in the innovation hub of Massachusetts. I have no doubt that we will rise to the occasion if we align ourselves with the right things and craft mindful legislation to meet those needs.”

The Future of Work Commission was established pursuant to Section 92 of Chapter 358 of the Acts of 2020 and charged with conducting “a comprehensive study relative to the impact of automation, artificial intelligence, global trade, access to new forms of data, and the internet of things on the workforce, businesses, and economy.” The commission worked extensively over the 2021-22 session to assess the challenges facing work and workplaces in Massachusetts. Convening both in-person across the Commonwealth and virtually, commissioners held public meetings with stakeholders, experts, and working people facing a rapidly changing work environment.