BusinessWest Staff, Author at BusinessWest

SPRINGFIELD — Twenty-eight female medical providers from Baystate Health are set to begin a six-month pilot of a public-speaking training program uniquely crafted for women in academic medicine. The program is a collaboration between Women Advancing and Achieving in Medicine, a Baystate Health organizational resource group, and Speaker Sisterhood, a public-speaking training company for women founded by CEO Angela Lussier and headquartered in Holyoke.

The program is focused on learning and practicing proven techniques to enhance participants’ communication so they are more effective and confident. The goal is for each participant to hone her own authentic voice so that she has greater impact both within her department and from behind the podium at major conferences. The program kicked off Jan. 10 and runs until June 6.

“For years, I have noticed a lack of female speakers at many high-profile medical conferences, and I figured that there had to be a systemic way to change this, and our pilot project is a first step,” said Dr. Jeannette Wolfe, associate professor of Emergency Medicine at UMass Medical School’s Baystate campus. “We have partnered with Speaker Sisterhood to develop a very unique curriculum that addresses some of the specific challenges many women in academic medicine face in becoming recognized as source experts within their fields. I’m very excited about the potential of the program because creating a group of polished public speakers not only benefits those speakers, but also increases the regional and national recognition of Baystate Health.”

Participants, who were nominated by their chairs and program directors, will meet monthly in a three-hour evening session. Each meeting will begin with a brief lecture covering topics ranging from effective storytelling to slide development to tips on how to break into conference speaking circles. Next, participants will move into their breakout groups of eight or nine women for hands-on experiential learning and practice giving speeches and feedback to each other. Each group has deliberately been created to include women from a mix of medical specialties and experience levels with the intention that this will help naturally facilitate beneficial networking and coaching within the groups.

The pilot program is built upon the Speaker Sisterhood’s signature speaker development program, “The Secret Life of Speaking Up,” which was crafted to help professional women enhance their speech-writing skills, build on presentation effectiveness, and grow confidence while speaking.

“We’ve been running this program for the last 18 months in various communities, and over 100 women have benefited from the Speaker Sisterhood curriculum. We’re excited to see the impact it will make in a hospital setting and in the medical community at large,” Lussier said.

The aim of the pilot is to demonstrate its success though participants’ objective and subjective reports so that it can be expanded throughout Baystate Health and used as a template to benefit women in other academic centers.

“We were pleased to be asked to speak about this program at the Massachusetts Medical Society Women’s Leadership Forum in the fall of 2017,” said planning committee member and course facilitator Dr. Deborah Hoadley. “The response was overwhelmingly positive, and we were excited to hear women from all across the state express an interest in offering similar programs at their own institutions.”

Former CIGNA Health CIO Terry Ramey Joins VertitechIT

HOLYOKE — A seasoned chief information officer for some of the world’s largest healthcare payor organizations, Terry Ramey has joined Holyoke-based healthcare consultancy VertitechIT as an executive project officer (EPO). He will lead engagements with large healthcare systems as the company continues to expand operations throughout the East Coast and across the country.

Ramey previously held senior technology titles at PerformRX (a subsidiary of AmeriHealth Caritas), Penn Mutual Life Insurance, CIGNA Health Services, and Dendrite International.   As a nationally recognized healthcare technology executive, he says he was looking to make an impact on the provider side of the industry.

“At CIGNA, Penn Mutual, and other major payor organizations, my responsibilities were to leverage technology to positively affect the bottom line,” he noted. “At VertitechIT, I have the opportunity to help transform hospital IT departments with a direct impact on patient care. It’s not often that an IT executive gets to do that.”

VertitechIT CEO Michael Feld agrees. “Our work at work at major health systems goes far beyond designing and implementing cloud strategies, overhauling infrastructure, and streamlining operations. As an EPO, Terry will counsel clients on the IT initiatives that can literally change the way doctors do their jobs.”

Working at the executive level within a healthcare organization, EPOs oversee a collaborative office of the CTO (oCTO), implementing VertitechIT’s proprietary LeverageIT process. Working side by side with senior internal managers, the oCTO refines strategic directives and implements tactical solutions that make organizations more profitable and efficient.

Kate Kane Wins 2018 Distinguished Advisor in Philanthropy Award

SPRINGFIELD — The Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, in partnership with the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County and the Pioneer Valley Estate Planning Council, has awarded Kate Kane the 2018 Distinguished Advisor in Philanthropy Award. The award was presented by Katie Allan Zobel, president and CEO of the Community Foundation, and Amy Jamrog, wealth management advisor at the Jamrog Group, at a luncheon on Jan. 9.

The purpose of the Distinguished Advisor in Philanthropy Award is to recognize the important work that professional advisors (estate-planning attorneys, financial advisors, and accountants) do in encouraging their clients to engage in local philanthropy for the region.

As Zobel noted, “professional advisors play a quiet and often unsung role in advancing philanthropy. The Community Foundation has been working alongside local advisors for over 25 years, and we see first-hand the meaningful work they do by connecting their clients’ generous intentions to needs in our community. Their efforts have helped create a significant base of funding for scholarships and grants to nonprofits in our region.”

Zobel also said she is pleased to be giving this award to its first female recipient. Past awardees include George Keady III, Dick Gaberman, Dennis Bidwell, Jack Ferriter, and Steven Schwartz. Kane received a plaque and $1,000 to recommend as a grant to the charity of her choice.

Kane is managing director of Northwestern Mutual in Springfield, where she matches clients’ needs with innovative solutions utilizing insurance services and internationally recognized investment products.

“Financial advising is a business of words and stories,” she said. “The numbers are simply tools to further the pursuit of hopes and dreams for ourselves, our families, and our communities. We give our clients the gift of listening to their stories and helping them connect with the right decisions to fulfill their aspirations and leave a legacy.”

Well-known for her volunteerism and philanthropic spirit, Kane is a former board member (2008-15) and past board president of the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts. She currently serves on the boards of directors for Elms College and Girls Inc. of Holyoke and is vice chair of the board of trustees for Springfield Museums. She co-wrote the original business plan for the local chapter of the Dress for Success, which supports the career and economic advancement of women, and she serves as a business mentor for many young entrepreneurs in the region.

Kane has been recognized with many awards in the past for her commitment to strengthening her community, including Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s Richard J. Moriarty Citizen of the Year in 2015, Western Mass Women magazine’s Professional Woman of the Year in 2012, Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year in 2011, and a BusinessWest Difference Maker in 2009.

Bay Path to Host Workforce Training Fund Information Session

EAST LONGMEADOW — A Massachusetts Workforce Training Fund information session will be held on Feb. 2 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Bay Path University’s Philip H. Ryan Health Science Center in East Longmeadow. To register, visit workforcetrainingfund.org/events or call (413) 565-1555.

The Workforce Training Fund Program (WTFP) helps address business productivity and competitiveness by providing resources to Massachusetts businesses to fund training for current and newly hired employees. In order to qualify, businesses must pay into the fund. All for-profit companies automatically pay into the fund. Nonprofit organizations can visit www.workforcetrainingfund.org and click on ‘programs’ for more information and to learn if the organization qualifies. Government agencies are not eligible to apply.

While available to businesses and organizations of all sizes, the WTFP focuses on small to medium-sized businesses that would not be able to invest in improving employee skills without the assistance of the Fund. As recently as October, the Workforce Training Fund Program awarded grants to 121 Massachusetts companies and organizations totaling $11.9 million. More than $17 million in grants were distributed in FY17.

Bay Path’s Strategic Alliances division, which offers customized talent and leadership programs, as well as specialized training, is hosting this event. The WTFP information session is part of “How to Build Company Loyalty Through Professional Development” and will include an overview of the features and benefits of each Workforce Training Fund grant program, the amount of available funding, program guidelines, and how to apply for each grant. Participants will have direct access to staff to ask questions about the WTFP and training opportunities.

Speakers on the event agenda include Kristen Rayne, outreach manager, Workforce Training Fund at Commonwealth Corp.; Stephen Brand, executive director of Global Learning, Strategic Alliances at Bay Path University; and two talent-development experts with vast experience in the Western Mass. region.

The Workforce Training Fund is a program of the Massachusetts Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development, administered by Commonwealth Corp.

MGM Springfield Moves to New On-site Corporate Offices

SPRINGFIELD — MGM Springfield has moved into new corporate offices at 95 State St., soon to be called One MGM Way. Located across from the Hampden County Superior Court, and adjacent to what will be MGM Springfield’s South End Market, the building will be home to members of the MGM Springfield executive and administrative teams.

“Moving on site is a great way to kick off the year of our opening,” said Michael Mathis, president and COO of MGM Springfield. “We have a growing workforce, and this office space better suits our ever-expanding needs as this momentous year unfolds. It’s an exciting transition for all of us.”

Like other elements of the property’s integrated downtown design, the 11-story building celebrates Springfield’s heritage while preserving its iconic past. Built in 1929, the building was designed in the classical revival style by Burton Geckler as an annex to 1200 Main St. It was formerly known as the MassMutual building at 95 State St., and has since undergone a complete renovation, including new mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and finishes. MGM carefully conserved the exterior façade and maintained many of the lobby’s original features.

“I am proud of the effort and care that our first-in-class construction team has put into preserving Springfield’s history throughout the property,” Mathis said. “This building is just one example of the many that will be unveiled this year.”

Springfield firms Specs Design Group and Dietz & Co. Architects collaborated on the outfitting and design of the employee space with Las Vegas-based Friedmutter Group. Springfield-based Fontaine Bros. Inc. served as general contractor and stewarded the project through the construction phase.

“As a company that has called Springfield home for over 85 years, we were excited to oversee construction of this critical portion of the MGM resort, and we are proud to have played a role in helping bring this unprecedented economic-development project to our city,” said David Fontaine Jr., vice president of Fontaine Bros.

MGM Springfield’s new corporate offices boast collaboration and work areas, conference and meeting spaces, open cubicle areas, and private executive offices. The design scheme includes warm colors, reclaimed wood, and brick veneers throughout the space.

“With an inviting new layout and fresh faced finishes, this tired, 1930s office building becomes a hip, flexible environment for a young, energetic workforce,” said Elise Irish, principal of Specs Design Group.

The corporate offices will be located on floors two through eight. Approximately 50 employees have moved into the space. At full staffing, the area is expected to accommodate more than 300 employees. Activities at the approximately 85,000-square-foot employee offices will cover all aspects of the day-to-day operations for MGM Springfield.

Anyone interested in learning about career opportunities should visit MGM Springfield’s Career Center, which will be open 10 a.m to 4 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and 1-7 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. During those hours, an MGM representative may be reached at (413) 273-5052.

Study Connects Veterans’ Addiction Risk to Childhood Adversity

AMHERST — Results of a national study led by public health scientist Elizabeth Evans at UMass Amherst, along with others at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and UCLA, suggest that risk for alcohol- and drug-use disorders among U.S. military veterans is increased by childhood adversity, and in ways that are different between women and men and different compared to the civilian population.

According to Evans, assistant professor of Health Promotion and Policy at UMass Amherst School of Public Health and Health Sciences, in the general population, fewer women than men have an alcohol- or drug-use disorder. “Veterans are different in that there is no gender difference in the prevalence of these problems,” she explained. “Among veterans, a similar proportion of women and men — about 37% — have ever had an alcohol or drug-use disorder. This finding that women veterans are similar to men veterans, and are so different from civilian women, is unexpected. Also surprising are the high rates of childhood adversity among veterans, especially among women; 68% of women veterans report some childhood adversity, and they have the highest rates of childhood sexual abuse.”

The study results appeared in a recent early online edition of Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology and will be in print this year.

“One of the implications of this study is the need to assess for childhood adversity, to help people recognize its relationship with substance use and cope with its health impacts,” Evans noted. “When people join the military or when veterans access healthcare at the VA or in the community would be good times to assess and treat childhood adversity, and we’re often missing those opportunities now.”

The researchers found that, with increasing exposure to adversity in childhood, risks of alcohol-use disorder among civilian men and women grew more similar, but for drug-use disorder, the gender differences in risk widened. By contrast, among veterans, more childhood adversity elevated men’s alcohol risk and increased women’s drug risk. The authors speculate that, among veterans with greater exposure to childhood adversity, men may be more likely than women to use alcohol, while women may be more likely than men to use drugs.

“In general right now, we don’t assess for childhood adversity until there’s a problem, in particular with alcohol or drugs, or attempts to harm oneself or others,” Evans said. “However, we know that childhood adversity is an early life experience that is associated with anxiety, depression, and other risk factors for later health and social problems. We in public health, along with others in the community, can do more to prevent childhood adversity altogether. Also, more can be done to assess and address childhood adversity when it does occur so that we mitigate or undo its harmful effects. The need for such efforts is especially critical now given the devastating impacts of the current opioid epidemic on families and communities.”

Dress for Success Graduates 14 from Foot in the Door Program

SPRINGFIELD — The third cohort of the Western Mass. Dress for Success Foot in the Door program celebrated its graduation at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Fourteen women recently completed the nine-week training. Graduates already have interviews scheduled with TD Bank, MGM Springfield, Sunshine Village, Baystate Health, and Smith & Wesson. One participant said she’s decided to return to higher education and get her bachelor’s degree. These women are ready for the workforce due to a grant from Baystate Health and Smith & Wesson.

“If you had told me two years ago, when we began building the Foot in the Door program, it would be this successful, I would have thought it was simply high expectations,” said Dawn Creighton, president of the board. “The caliber of the women coming out of this program, being workforce-ready, is amazing. We change their lives and their futures.”

The success of the Foot in the Door program lies in the partnership between Western Mass. Dress for Success and Training and Workforce Options (TWO), the workforce collaboration between STCC and Holyoke Community College, said Sharon Grundel of TWO. “As community-driven and supported entities, we share a vision to empower individuals to their highest ability.”

Currently, Western Mass. Dress for Success is accepting applications and grants to begin its fourth cohort this spring.

Marty Holmes Recognized for Success with Management Search Inc.

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Marty Holmes was recently named top corporate search consultant at Management Search Inc.

Holmes, president of the West Springfield division of the privately held recruiting firm, was recognized with the organization’s prestigious President’s Club Award for sales excellence in 2017. This year also marked Holmes’ 30th anniversary with Management Search Inc.

Throughout his tenure, Holmes has worked to perfect a time-tested recruitment process and, in the process, has established deep roots in the market with a diverse client base in manufacturing and a niche focus within the shooting-sports industry. His hands-on consultative approach, along with his extensive knowledge of the industries he works in, have worked together to build and strengthen his reputation among clients and candidates alike.

Headquartered in West Springfield with an office in Providence, R.I., Management Search Inc. has grown to become one of the largest privately held recruiting firms in New England, boasting 35 years of recruiting experience and 15 established consultants.

ICNE Announces Addition of Eastman & Davis Insurance

AGAWAM — The Insurance Center of New England (ICNE) announced the addition of Eastman & Davis Insurance Agency Inc. in West Springfield to its growing company.

“We are thrilled to not only have the Eastman & Davis Insurance clients join our agency, but also to have longtime employee Marilyn Loudon join the ICNE team as a personal lines account manager,” said William Trudeau, president and CEO of ICNE.

Many ICNE clients have been with the agency for generations, Trudeau noted, so he understands what an important role Bill Eastman has played in the lives of his clients through the years. “I feel so honored that Bill trusts the ICNE team to take over the responsibility of caring for his clients.”

Over the past several years, Eastman had been seeking out a business partner to ensure that his business would continue to thrive and that his clientele would be well-taken care of for decades to come. While Eastman & Davis clients may experience a few minor changes in process and procedures, the ultimate goal is to make the transition seamless.

“When Eastman & Davis clients join ICNE, they will quickly learn that we are much more than an insurance agency,” Trudeau said. “We are a local team of insurance professionals who will get to know them personally and will always be there to answer their questions, review their policy, and help them make informed decisions to safeguard their family, home, car, and everything that is important to them.”

As part of the transition, Eastman & Davis’ West Springfield office will be closing. However, for the convenience of clients, Marilyn Loudon will move to ICNE’s main office in Agawam, just five miles down the road from the current West Springfield location.

“I can’t stress enough how happy our entire team is to welcome the Eastman & Davis clients to our agency,” Trudeau said. “We look forward to getting to know them and working together for years to come.”

Mercy Health ACO Announces State Certification for New Program

SPRINGFIELD — Mercy Health ACO announced that the Massachusetts Health Policy Commission (HPC) certified it as an accountable-care organization (ACO) in the HPC’s new, first-in-the-nation program. The HPC’s first round of ACO certification includes 17 HPC-certified ACOs and is a significant milestone for Massachusetts, making it the first state to implement statewide, all-payer standards for care delivery.

“We are pleased to take the next step in this important effort to improve care for MassHealth patients and reduce costs for the Commonwealth,” said Mark Fulco, president of Mercy Medical Center.

Mercy has formed an ACO partnership with Boston Medical Center (BMC) Health System, including its affiliate, BMC HealthNet Plan. The Mercy ACO will provide coverage, care, and services to MassHealth enrollees in Western Mass.

The HPC’s ACO certification program is closely aligned with efforts by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the MassHealth to improve health and reduce healthcare cost growth in the Commonwealth through ACOs. The goal is a healthcare delivery system that delivers coordinated, patient-centered health care that accounts for patients’ behavioral, social, and medical needs.

“The ACO program represents a significant change in the way MassHealth contracts with healthcare organizations throughout the state,” said Massachusetts Secretary for Health and Human Services Marylou Sudders. “The goal of the ACO program is to improve the care coordination and health outcomes for 850,000 MassHealth members, and we are pleased they all met the thorough certification standards.”

For the first year of the program, the HPC defined a set of criteria on which to assess ACOs for certification against that goal. However, unlike other state or federal programs, the HPC’s certification program evaluates ACOs on an all-payer basis, including for their Medicaid, Medicare, and commercially insured patient populations.

The HPC-certified ACOs include a diverse cross section of 17 healthcare organizations from across the Commonwealth. Importantly, the HPC will certify all organizations participating in the MassHealth ACO program.

“The ACO certification program will bring new transparency and information to the public regarding how ACOs are structured and operating today,” said David Seltz, HPC executive director. “The HPC expects to analyze the information received and identify best practices and areas of improvement for payers, policy makers, researchers, providers, and consumers.”

In order to be evaluated for certification, organizations were required to provide information for 15 standards, including patient-centered governance, performance-improvement strategy, experience in quality-based risk contracts, population-health management programs, and ability to coordinate cross-continuum care. Full certification is effective for two years, and organizations with provisional certification must apply for full certification within one year.

“Mercy Medical Center’s new ACO is big step forward for increasing access and affordability in Western Massachusetts,” said state Sen. James Welch. “I am excited to see this new and innovative program come into action and proud that Mercy is helping the Commonwealth carry the torch of healthcare delivery transformation to the benefit of our citizens and as an example to the nation.”

Higher Ed Commissioner to Discuss Latino Student Success at HCC

HOLYOKE — Carlos Santiago, commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education, will be the keynote speaker at an event on Wednesday, Jan. 17, celebrating Holyoke Community College’s (HCC) federal designation as a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).

Santiago’s talk, scheduled from 9:10 to 10 a.m., will focus on improving the academic success of Latino students and the importance of this rising demographic in higher education and in Massachusetts. The talk will be followed at 10 a.m. by a faculty and staff panel discussion concentrating on HCC’s future as an HSI.

“Our goal for the day is to develop a common understanding of our Hispanic Serving Institution designation and collectively form a vision of HCC as an effective HSI,” said President Christina Royal.

Hispanic Serving Institution is a federal designation for colleges and universities where more than 25% of the student population is Hispanic. HCC received status as an HSI last year. As an HSI, HCC is eligible for federal grants that can be used to improve services and programs that benefit all students.

Santiago joined the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education in April 2013 as the senior deputy commissioner for Academic Affairs and was appointed commissioner of Higher Education in July 2015. He holds a Ph.D. in economics from Cornell University and brings more than 30 years of experience in public higher education, having served as chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee (UWM, Wisconsin’s second-largest research university), provost and chief operating officer at the University at Albany (SUNY), and professor of Economics at UWM and SUNY-Albany.

He is the author or co-author of six books and has published dozens of articles and book reviews, many of which focus on economic development and the changing socioeconomic status of Latinos in the U.S. In 1996 and 2011, Santiago was named one of the 100 most influential Hispanics in the country by Hispanic Business magazine.

Local Arts and Culture Partners to Sign Springfield Compact

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Central Cultural District, the Springfield Cultural Council, the city of Springfield, and the Mass Cultural Council will announce a new and formal cultural relationship with a compact signing on Tuesday, Jan. 16 at 10:30 a.m. at City Hall, Room 220.

The cultural compact is designed to increase collaboration and partnership. It includes basics, such as regular meetings and communication, but also Springfield-specific goals like integrating public art into the metro center. Springfield is one of six pilot cities for this initiative across the state of Massachusetts, and the first in the state to hold a signing ceremony.

Participants at the ceremony will include Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; Anita Walker, executive director, Mass Cultural Council; Arreen Andrew, local cultural council program officer, Mass Cultural Council; Scott Hanson, principal planner, city of Springfield; Andrew Cade, chair, Springfield Cultural Council; Morgan Drewniany, executive director, Springfield Central Cultural District; and Eileen McCaffery, chair, Springfield Central Cultural District.

Springfield College Welcomes James Harnsberger

SPRINGFIELD — After an extended national search, James Harnsberger has been named associate vice president for Graduate Education, Grants, and Sponsored Research at Springfield College. President Mary-Beth Cooper and Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Martha Potvin recently made the announcement.

Harnsberger will join the college on Feb. 15, and will be responsible for elevating the status of graduate education at Springfield College as well as for increasing the college’s capacity to generate and support externally funded grants and sponsored funding.

“In both of these primary responsibilities, his thoughtful approach, his experiences in supporting students and the work of faculty, and his success in managing large contracts and overseas operations will serve him well,” said Potvin.

A linguist and speech scientist with extensive experience in experimental phonetics, forensic acoustics, and clinical applications, Harnsberger comes to Springfield College from the University of New Haven, having previously overseen the launch of an international branch campus as campus dean. His responsibilities included international grants and contracts, program development, and operations, as well as the inaugural Academic Bridge Program for international students at UNH.

Harnsberger earned his doctorate in linguistics from the University of Michigan, where he conducted research on cross-language variation in the perception of non-native speech sounds. Following a post-doctoral fellowship at Indiana University, he served at the Department of Linguistics at the University of Florida, conducting research on the perception of speaker characteristics such age, gender, emotion, dialect, stress, and deception. His research has been published in numerous academic journals and reported in the popular media, including ABC News Primetime, BBC Radio, and Science News.

He has served as a linguistic consultant in numerous criminal and civil cases in the U.S., as well as government agencies including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Defense Intelligence Agency, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the Defense Academy for Credibility Assessment, the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and the House Armed Services Committee.

VNA Care Welcomes Holly Chaffee as President and CEO

BOSTON — VNA Care, a subsidiary of Atrius Health serving more than 50,000 patients each year as Massachusetts’ largest nonprofit home-health and hospice provider, recently welcomed Holly Chaffee as president and CEO.

The appointment of Chaffee, approved by the board of directors in December, was the result of a nationwide search. She replaces Mary Ann O’Connor, who is retiring after a 45-year career in the home-care and hospice industry, including the last five years as president and CEO of VNA Care. VNA Care includes VNA Care Network, VNA of Boston, and VNA Hospice and Palliative Care.

“We are delighted to welcome Holly, whose dedication and vision for providing patients with high-quality, compassionate care was instrumental to her selection as our new CEO. We are confident that VNA Care will continue to be a leader in the level of care that we provide to our communities,” said Rita Advani, chair of the board of directors at VNA Care.

A registered nurse with more than 30 years of experience, Chaffee has distinguished herself as an innovator in enhancing the quality of patient care industry-wide. For the past decade, she has been president and CEO of Porchlight VNA/Home Care, a five-star agency serving communities in Western Mass. She was recently recognized as a 2017 Healthcare Hero by BusinessWest and HCN, specifically being named Health/Wellness Administrator of the year. At Porchlight, a freestanding, not-for-profit organization, she oversaw the full rebranding of a 100-plus-year-old community organization, and a merger that allowed Porchlight to grow into new larger markets.

“I have great admiration for the work VNA Care does with Atrius Health to ensure patients receive the patient-centered care they deserve,” said Chaffee. “As healthcare continues to move into home and ambulatory settings, I look forward to collaborating in our collective mission to provide the right care with kindness and compassion to every person we serve.”

Country Bank Takes Customers on a ‘Ca$h Cab’ Ride

WARE — To celebrate the holiday season, Country Bank decided to mix things up a bit and have some fun with customers. The Country Bank Honda Pilot was transformed into a ‘Ca$h Cab’ and provided an opportunity for customers and non-customers to take a virtual cab ride with various members from the senior management team. They were asked 10 financial-literacy questions for a chance to win some extra dough.

“This was just a little way for us to show our appreciation to our customers while having some fun and offering financial education. The extra spending money during the holiday season was also very much welcomed by our passengers,” said Shelley Regin, senior vice president of Marketing.

To continue its support of financial education, the bank is launching a new website on Jan. 17 that includes digital financial-literacy modules on a variety of topics, such as savings, retirement, budgeting, investments, mortgages, taxes, insurance, and more. “These modules will provide the knowledge and skills needed to develop stronger financial capability and gain a better understanding of how to use our products and services,” said Jodie Gerulaitis, vice president of Community Relations.

Northampton Branch of Family Legacy Partners Changes Name

NORTHAMPTON — The Northampton branch of Family Legacy Partners, led by Karen Curran and Molly Keegan, announced a company name change to Curran and Keegan Financial. The company’s office remains in Northampton.

This name change allows the company to better reflect a personal promise to help guide clients’ financial futures. Karen Curran and Molly Keegan offer a combined 22 years of service as independent financial advisors, sponsor numerous community events, and serve on several local boards. Keegan is chair of the Hadley Select Board, and Curran sits on the boards of Safe Passage and Cooley Dickinson Hospital.

“We have a strong reputation for personal stewardship, and our new name captures our commitment to our clients,” Curran said.

Additionally, the company is beginning its fourth year by adding a new client-services associate, Kori Ferris. Ferris has 12 years of experience in higher education, and she most recently led the Office of Financial Aid at Weill Cornell Medicine. A resident of Greenfield, she joins the company with a focus on helping clients and advisors during the financial-planning and investment process.

“Kori brings a wealth of experience to our office, and she understands that individuals’ financial circumstances are unique,” Keegan said. “Our clients will benefit from our increased capacity.”

Greenfield Savings Bank Promotes Tara Brewster

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Savings Bank promoted Tara Brewster to vice president of Business Development. Her position includes developing long-term strategies for business development and outreach to perspective customers, including small businesses and individuals for lending and account services. She joined GSB as a Business Development specialist in late 2016.

“Tara’s efforts to expand the bank’s portfolio of small-business customers and individuals have been very successful,” said John Howland, president and CEO of Greenfield Savings Bank. “Her more than 20 years of experience in small-business management has given her great insight into the needs of local businesses.”

In addition to her duties at the bank, Brewster is active in volunteering on the committees and boards of a wide range of community organizations, including Northampton Chamber of Commerce board of directors, Hampshire Regional YMCA board, Franklin Hampshire Regional Employment Board, Downtown Northampton Assoc. board, Northampton Redevelopment Authority committee, North Star Self Directed Learning for Teens development committee, Community Health Center of Franklin County marketing committee, as a Northampton Chamber of Commerce ambassador, and as chair of the Pedalmotion for Locomotion Look Park fund-raising event.

Before joining the Bank, Brewster worked for independent small businesses and multi-million-dollar companies, including seven years as owner of Jackson & Connor in downtown Northampton and in a wide range of management positions including manager, promotions director, buyer, regional sales manager, and East Coast account executive. She is a graduate of Smith College.

Hampden County Bar Assoc. to Offer Free Legal Help Hotline Feb. 8

SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden County Bar Assoc. will hold a Legal Help Hotline in conjunction with Western New England University School of Law on Thursday, Feb. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Western New England University School of Law, 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield.

The volunteers will provide legal advice on a variety of topics, including divorce and family law, bankruptcy, business, landlord/tenant, and real estate. Additionally, in light of recent immigration developments, attorneys with immigration-law experience will be available to answer questions. Spanish-speaking attorneys will also be available. Individuals needing advice should call (413) 796-2057 to speak to a volunteer.

Theresa Curry to Direct Planned Giving at UMass Amherst

AMHERST — Theresa Curry has been named executive director of Planned Giving at UMass Amherst. Curry, an attorney, has extensive experience in business and organizational development, nonprofit giving, and gift administration.

“We are delighted that Theresa Curry will be joining UMass Amherst’s development team,” said Vice Chancellor of Development and Alumni Relations Mike Leto. “She brings deep expertise in estate planning to this role, as well as her considerable impact and success in fund-raising for higher education.”

Curry comes to UMass Amherst from the University of New Hampshire Foundation, where she held several senior management positions in gift planning since 2012. Most recently, she served as assistant vice president for Gift Planning and Administration at UNH. She established UNH’s gift-planning program and played a major role in its recent $275 million fund-raising campaign.

Previously, Curry established gift-planning programs as regional director of Philanthropy at the ALS Assoc. and as the capital campaign manager for Merrimack College. She has worked as an employee, consultant, volunteer, and lawyer in gift planning since 1998. She holds a juris doctor degree from the William Mitchell College of Law in Saint Paul, Minn., and a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Minnesota. She is also a triathlete and distance runner.

Robinson Donovan Promotes Kailee Wilson to Associate Attorney

SPRINGFIELD — Robinson Donovan, P.C. promoted former law clerk Kailee Wilson to the role of associate attorney following her admission to both the Massachusetts and Connecticut bars.

Wilson is a 2017 graduate of the University of Connecticut School of Law. While attending law school, she also interned with the school’s Tax Clinic, gaining skills and insights that have proven invaluable to her current business practice. In addition, she is now a member of the Massachusetts Bar Assoc., the Hampden County Bar Assoc., and the Connecticut Bar Assoc.

“Kailee had a very successful year at Robinson Donovan, P.C., and we are thrilled that she is expanding her role at our firm,” said Partner James Martin. “Kailee has been a real asset to our firm, and we look forward to her having a successful career here.”

Wilson assists clients in the areas of business and corporate counseling, commercial real estate, and estate planning. Outside of work, she channels her passion for advocacy into her role as a volunteer coach with the Special Olympics and in the Alumni in Admissions program for her alma mater, Bates College.

UMass Team Reports Gambling Research to Gaming Commission

AMHERST — Results of a baseline study on gambling behavior in Massachusetts that establishes how people participated — or not — in gambling prior to the opening of any casinos were reported this week to the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) by epidemiologist Rachel Volberg and colleagues at UMass Amherst’s School of Public Health and Health Sciences. It is the first major cohort study of adult gambling to be carried out in the U.S.

Volberg and colleagues were selected by the MGC in 2013 to conduct a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive, multi-year study on the economic and social impacts of introducing casino gambling in the state. The Social and Economic Impacts of Gambling in Massachusetts (SEIGMA) team is examining an array of social and economic effects.

As part of MGC’s research agenda, the results are from the separate Massachusetts Gambling Impact Cohort study of factors critical to developing strategic and data-driven problem-gambling services. Cohort studies survey the same individuals over time and provide information on how gambling and problem gambling develops and progresses, and how individuals may experience remission.

“This has significant value as it can highlight risk and protective factors important in developing effective prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery-support services,” Volberg noted.

The report is based on analyses of 3,096 Massachusetts residents who completed the SEIGMA baseline study of self-reported past-year gambling behaviors in wave 1 in 2013-14 and wave 2 in 2015. The researchers observed a statistically significant increase in overall gambling participation as well as in participation in casino gambling and horserace betting within the cohort between wave 1 and wave 2. They also reported a statistically significant increase in the cohort in the average number of gambling formats engaged in over the previous 12 months. However, in all cases this increase was “quite small,” they note, between 2% and 3.2%.

Before beginning this research, Volberg predicted the state’s sweeping research initiative would change the intellectual landscape and knowledge base about gambling, and she said the results released this week support that view. “This tells us new things, but it is nuanced. Based on this new study, researchers will think about gambling behavior in new ways.”

One interesting finding is “the apparent ease with which people move in and out of problem-gambling status within a given year,” the lead author pointed out. “It’s pretty clear that people phase in and out of the problem gambling group. This movement is different than the way problem gambling has been characterized in the past. Until recently, the general orientation has been that disordered gambling is an unremitting chronic condition.”

According to the report, only 49.4% of individuals who were problem or pathological gamblers in wave 1 were in this same category in wave 2, with sizeable numbers transitioning into at-risk gambling and recreational gambling categories. At-risk gamblers were the most unstable members of the cohort, with only 37.5% being in the same category in both waves. Most of them transitioned to recreational gambling, but a significant minority transitioned to become problem or pathological gamblers, the researchers reported.

Added Volberg, “we’ve seen this movement in studies done in other jurisdictions, but this will be news to some researchers who are used to thinking of problem gambling as a progressive and chronic disorder.”

Mark Vander Linden, MGC director of research and responsible gaming, noted that “there is great value for the MGC and our public-health partners in knowing the movement of people into and out of problem gambling because this data has public-health implications for identifying and supporting the spectrum of services that will be most useful in preventing and treating problem gambling.”

An important aspect of all physical and mental disorders is incidence, Volberg said. That is the proportion of a population that newly develops a condition over a specified period of time. The study found problem gambling incidence in Massachusetts, at 2.4%, to be high compared to studies elsewhere. The authors pointed out, however, that those other studies have different ‘gambling landscapes,’ used different measures of problem gambling, and had shorter follow-up periods.

The report noted that the cause of the high incidence rate is unclear given that there was no significant change in the actual availability of legal gambling opportunities in Massachusetts during this time period. The researchers expect the post-casino cohort survey data will shed additional light on the incidence rate in Massachusetts.

In addition to Volberg and colleagues at UMass Amherst, co-investigator Robert Williams of the University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada, provided oversight of study design and implementation as well as help with data analysis and reporting. Future analyses will focus on predictors of problem-gambling onset and whether there are gender differences in these predictors, as well as predictors of problem-gambling remission and the extent to which accessing treatment is one of these factors.

Journal of Aging Studies Moves to UMass Amherst College of Nursing

AMHERST — The Journal of Aging Studies is moving to UMass Amherst from the University of Missouri.

Jaber Gubrium, professor emeritus of Sociology at the University of Missouri, is the editor of the journal. He was recently appointed as an adjunct professor at the College of Nursing at UMass Amherst. Over the course of his long career, Gubrium has been a leading researcher on issues such as institutionalization, dementia, and issues of interpretive practice. His theoretical interests center on links between cultural formations of late life and constructions of identity.

Gubrium originally described the everyday practice of caregiving in nursing homes in the now-classic research monograph Living and Dying at Murray Manor. The pioneering work examined the small- and large-scale social organizations within the nursing home and the patient and staff experience rather attempting to establish a single metric to measure quality of care.

Since then, Gubrium has published Oldtimers and Alzheimer’s: The Descriptive Organization of Senility and Speaking of Life: Horizons of Meaning for Nursing Home Residents, as well as other works.

With the Journal of Aging Studies moving to UMass, College of Nursing Professor Cynthia Jacelon has been named to the editorial board. Jacelon’s area of research and expertise is promoting dignity, self-management of chronic health problems, and independence in older adults.

“We are excited to have the Journal of Aging Studies based here at the College of Nursing,” said Dean Stephen Cavanagh. “Professor Jacelon’s appointment to the editorial board will benefit both the college and the journal. Her research on dignity changed the conversations that are taking place in senior homes across the country.”

Springfield College Welcomes Brooke Hallowell to Dean Position

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College announced that Brooke Hallowell has been named dean of the School of Health Sciences and Rehabilitation Studies.

As dean, Hallowell will collaborate with leadership of other divisions and units of Springfield College to participate in strategic planning and implementation activities that further the overall mission of the institution. She will oversee academic areas within her school, including physical and occupational therapy, physician assistant, health science, emergency medical services management, communication disorders, and rehabilitation counseling and disability studies. She will be responsible for assurance of quality of programming in line with student needs, institutional mission, and the requirements of applicable accreditation bodies.

According to Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs Martha Potvin, “Dr. Hallowell will play a pivotal role in working with faculty to advance education across a broad array of health sciences and professions and to extend the college’s impact on global healthcare issues that we face both in our local and regional communities as well as abroad.”

Hallowell has held several academic leadership positions and has a global reputation in advancing research and scholarship and fostering successful interdisciplinary initiatives. Most recently, she served as the founding executive director of the Collaborative on Aging and the coordinator of graduate and undergraduate gerontology certificate programs at Ohio University. She also held several other positions at Ohio University, including associate dean for research and sponsored programs in the College of Health and Human Services; director of the School of Hearing, Speech and Language Sciences; and coordinator of Ph.D. programs for the School of Rehabilitation and Communication Sciences. She also served as director of the School of Languages and Linguistics at the University of Northern California.

Hallowell received a Ph.D in neuropathologies of language and speech from the University of Iowa, a master’s degree in speech language pathology and audiology from Lamar University, and a bachelor’s degree in cognitive science/psycholinguistics from Brown University. She also studied at the Conservatoire National de France in Paris and Rouen.

Dress for Success Pop-up Tag Sale Offers Good Deals for Good Cause

SPRINGFIELD — Western Massachusetts Dress For Success (DFS) will hold a pop-up tag sale featuring new and gently used professional clothing and accessories Friday through Sunday, Jan. 19-21, inside the former Macy’s building at Eastfield Mall. The public is invited to fill a bag for just $25.

Dress for Success Western Massachusetts makes its home at Eastfield Mall, where it provides professional, interview-ready clothing and support for clients entering the job market from a ‘boutique’ in the Hannoush corridor. Proceeds from the tag sale benefit the organization’s career-development programs.

The public is invited to take advantage of the opportunity to do some New Year’s closet cleaning of its own. Western Massachusetts Dress for Success will accept new donations of clothing to be included in the sale.

“It’s because of our corporate partners like Columbia Gas, Cambridge Credit Union, Heath New Health England, and generous individual donors we are able to host pop-up tag sales,” said Dawn Creighton, board president of DFS. “Who knew cleaning a closet could help so many others? Whether you’re a college student with student loans getting ready for your first job, returning to the workforce and need a helping hand, or just want to shop to support DFS, everyone wins.”

For more information about volunteering for the pop-up tag sale or to make a donation, contact Margaret Tantillo at (413) 732-8179 or [email protected].

Employer Confidence Closes 2017 at 18-year High

BOSTON — Surging optimism about the state and national economies left Massachusetts employers with their highest level of confidence in 18 years as 2017 drew to a close.

The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index rose one point to 63.6 during December, its highest level since November 2000. The BCI gained 3.2 points during a year in which employer confidence levels remained comfortably within the optimistic range.

Every element of the overall index increased during 2017 except for the Employment Index, which dropped a half-point. Analysts believe low unemployment and demographic shifts are impeding the ability of employers to find the workers they need.

“Massachusetts employers maintained a uniformly positive outlook throughout 2017, and passage of the federal tax bill only added to that optimism,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design. “At the same time, the 12-month decline in the Employment Index reminds us that the persistent shortage of skilled workers has reached an inflection point for the Massachusetts economy. Massachusetts companies have postponed expansions, declined to bid for contracts, or outsourced work because they simply can’t find people.”

The AIM Index, based on a survey of Massachusetts employers, has appeared monthly since July 1991. It is calculated on a 100-point scale, with 50 as neutral; a reading above 50 is positive, while below 50 is negative. The Index reached its historic high of 68.5 on two occasions in 1997-98, and its all-time low of 33.3 in February 2009. It has remained above 50 since October 2013.

The constituent indicators that make up the overall Business Confidence Index were mostly higher during December. The Massachusetts Index, assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth, surged 2.4 points to 67.6, leaving it 5.8 points better than a year earlier. The U.S. Index of national business conditions continued a yearlong rally by gaining two points to 64.2. December marked the 94th consecutive month in which employers have been more optimistic about the Massachusetts economy than the national economy.

The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, decreased 0.7 points to 62.7, while the Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, rose 2.7 points to 64.5. The Current Index gained 3.6 points and the Future Index 2.8 points during 2017.

The Company Index, reflecting employer views of their own operations and prospects, declined 0.2 points to 62.1. The Employment Index rose slightly to 56.7, but still ended the year 0.5 points below the 57.2 posted in December 2016.

Manufacturing companies (64.3) continued to be more optimistic than non-manufacturers (62.6). Another unusual result was that employers in Western Mass. (64.6) posted higher confidence readings than those in the eastern portion of the Commonwealth (62.7).

“Employer attitudes largely reflect a national economy that grew at its fastest pace in three years during the third quarter on the strength of business spending on equipment. The headline is that unemployment is down and the financial markets are up,” said Michael Tyler, chief investment officer at Eastern Bank Wealth Management and a BEA member.

AIM President and CEO Richard Lord, also BEA member, said employers received an early Christmas present from a federal tax bill that reduced corporate rates from 35% to 21% and reduced rates for pass-through entities such as subchapter S-corporations as well.

“The tax bill produced short-term benefits, ranging from companies like Comcast and Citizens Financial providing bonuses to employees to the utility Eversource reducing electric rates in Massachusetts,” Lord said. “At the same time, employers are cautious about the effect that other provisions — including limitations on the deduction for state and local taxes — will have on the overall Massachusetts economy.”

Women Remain Underrepresented in IT — but Why?

Sections Women in Businesss

Missed Connections

Robin Saunders says the job opportunities and flexible working options in the IT field make it an ideal landing spot for talented women.

Despite the fact that women comprise roughly half the workforce and the majority of college enrollment, the world of computers and information technology remains a largely man’s world, with women accounting for just over one-quarter of all professionals. Many reasons have been posited for this disparity, but most industry leaders agree that opportunity abounds for talented women willing to, as one local professor put it, “just jump in.”

The numbers aren’t surprising anymore, but they’re still striking.

According to the National Science Foundation, though women make up roughly half of the college-educated workforce — and well over half of current college students — they comprise just 25% of the nation’s workforce in ‘computer and mathematical sciences,’ the name the Bureau of Labor Statistics gives to the broad industry most people call IT, or information technology.

“When I graduated in the mid-’80s, it wasn’t quite 50-50, but there were more women for sure,” said Brian Candido, associate professor and program chair of Computer Information Technologies at Springfield Technical Community College, noting that the field is slowly diversifying racially, but not along gender lines. “What’s interesting is that colleges are 60-40 female, and the projections are 70-30 in the next five years — but not in IT. It still tends to be white males. We’re seeing more Latinos, which is good, but not as many women as I’d like to see.”

Robin Saunders, director of Graduate Programs in Communications and Information Management at Bay Path University, agrees — even from her perspective at a women’s university.

“It is absolutely a problem,” she said. “If you look at the studies done by Google, women represent less than a third of the people in information-technology fields. They partly attribute that to women not being encouraged in high school to get into computer science. They’re told it’s difficult, it’s boring, it’s technology. When I was in my graduate cybersecurity degree program, I was the only woman. It can be pretty intimidating.”

And that’s unfortunate, she said, considering the opportunity that exists in IT, citing projections that, by 2020, some 1.4 million computer-science jobs will need to be filled, making IT one of the fastest-growing industries in the U.S. (see table below). It’s that growth, she said — and increased efforts to engage women at a younger age about those opportunities — that will start to shift the trend, she added.

“Many of those jobs will be filled by women,” she said. “It’s a perfect place for women to be; these are jobs that can be done full-time, part-time, or in an entrepreneurial way. If women are looking for something that’s flexible, it’s a perfect field to be in, and the jobs are expanding exponentially.”

In short, now is the time for young women — and older career changers, for that matter — to consider a field that, despite lingering stereotypes, is as promising and diverse as any. And that message is being delivered in myriad ways.

“The Girl Scouts just developed a coding badge, which is wonderful and something that teaches girls computer science is not just for your quintessential computer geeks, guys sitting in the basement with headsets,” Saunders said. “Women say that’s not what they want to be. But they don’t understand what the definition of information technology is. It’s such a broad field.”

She cited examples of applied computer science, which uses computers to examine and solve problems in a variety of industries, from healthcare to finance to precision machining. Meanwhile, professionals in her own specialty, cybersecurity, are increasingly in demand in virtually all types of businesses.

“Women are so sought after when they graduate,” she added. “Employers are looking for women to fill those positions. There’s a big push to equalize the genders in business, so if you’re a women with a degree in computer science, it pretty much guarantees a job.”

Breaking the Code

If that’s the case, why that nagging 25% statistic?

ISACA, a nonprofit that specializes in developing knowledge and practices for the IT industry, recently tried to get at the answer from within, surveying women who currently work in IT about the greatest barriers they face.

The top five were lack of mentors (48%), lack of female role models in the field (42%), gender bias in the workplace (39%), unequal growth opportunities compared to men (36%), and unequal pay for the same skills (35%).

“Women are vastly underrepresented in the global technology workforce. This is not only a societal concern, but also a workforce problem, given the critical shortage of skilled technology professionals faced by many enterprises,” said Jo Stewart-Rattray, board director of ISACA. “The survey findings reinforce that there is much work left to be done. By providing more opportunities, including career-advancement programs, we can make long-overdue progress in ensuring that women are more equitably represented in the technology workforce.”

When asked about opportunities for professional growth, 75% of respondents said their employer lacks a gender leadership development program. Additionally, 80% report that their supervisors are male, and just 8% report never experiencing gender bias in the workplace.

One big takeaway, Stewart-Rattray said, is that women hunger to learn and benefit from the presence of other women in technology.

Brian Candido says STCC’s female enrollment in computer programs has mirrored national statistics, but the college is taking steps to increase it.

Saunders said it needs to start early, with clubs as young as middle school that get girls together to talk about technology and coding, and organizations like Girls That Code. And those networks need to extend into adulthood; a good example is Saunders’ own participation with the Women in Cybersecurity network, whose national conference she addressed two years ago.

“Women love mentoring and love networking, and they’re good at it. That’s the way to get them interested.”

Candido agreed that outreach and engagement should begin long before college if the industry wants to turn around its drastic general imbalance.

“We see four or five female graduates a year, and the ones that do finish do quite well,” he told BusinessWest. “The companies we partner with, MassMutual, Baystate Health, they want diversity. They want employees that reflect the community at large.”

Everyone uses technology and social media, and some of that is spurring interest in what’s making it tick, what’s behind the software, what makes it happen.”

STCC has made efforts to create that diversity on its own campus, such as the STEM Starter Academy, which financially supports first-year students entering the STEM fields, with a particular emphasis on women and students of color; this year’s cohort is 50% female. Then there’s Candido’s mobile-programming course he teaches at Commerce High School, a project-based course that has teenagers developing apps in an effort to pique their interest in an IT career. Of the 18 current students, six are female.

“Everyone uses technology and social media, and some of that is spurring interest in what’s making it tick, what’s behind the software, what makes it happen,” he said, adding that there’s a meritocracy in the tech world that rewards what someone can do, not necessarily what demographic they are. “Some of these opportunities now, they don’t even meet with people; they work remotely over the Internet, develop apps and deploy them, or work on networks. We’re seeing that people can work everywhere and work virtually.”

Because they’re working in virtually every industry, Saunders noted, Bay Path’s applied computer science degree is especially attractive to students who see technology as a way to create tools and apps that solve real-world problems, rather than as an end in itself. Meanwhile, the school’s master’s degree in applied data science prepares them for an economy that is expected to need an influx of 190,000 big-data experts by 2018.

Meanwhile, Bay Path’s Center of Excellence for Women in STEM provides a number of supportive resources for students pursuing IT and other STEM-related degrees, including professional-development, mentorship, and networking opportunities; guest speakers, workshops, and forums; and honors programs.

It’s enough to make women want to take the plunge into IT, she said, and that’s the point.

“Just jump in, I say,” she told BusinessWest. “You know this industry is going to explode. So get in and see how it feels.”

Shift Key

While colleges are doing their part, the industry itself bears some responsibility for creating a more female-friendly culture, Stewart-Rattray argued.

“There also is much that enterprises can do, such as ensuring they are offering equitable pay for men and women and providing flexible working arrangements,” she noted. “Having ‘keep in touch’ days when women are on maternity leave, in addition to encouraging professional-development opportunities such as webinars and online courses, are other worthwhile ways to ensure that women remain connected to the organization while on leave.”

After all, she added, cultivating a more diverse work culture just makes economic sense.

“In addition to promoting a more just society, enterprises have bottom-line motivation to hire and promote women,” she said, citing research from the Peterson Institute for International Economics suggesting that organizations with at least 30% female leaders add up to 6% to their profit margin, on average. “This does not surprise me. The women I have worked with are highly motivated, focused, and encouraging of their colleagues. They are as knowledgeable — if not moreso — than their male counterparts.”

Saunders knows that to be true, and she tells prospective students as much.

“My recommendation is just to be fearless. We all had to start somewhere. The only problem is, the future doesn’t wait for anybody. If you don’t jump off the diving board, you’re going to be left behind.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Real Estate Transactions

Departments 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

BERNARDSTON

40 Hoe Shop Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Manuel D. King
Seller: Ian P. McGinn
Date: 12/13/17

157 Merrifield Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $118,750
Buyer: D. Scott Holden
Seller: Wilmington Savings
Date: 12/08/17

BUCKLAND

75 Charlemont Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Dewayne Matthews
Seller: Douglas N. Decoigne
Date: 12/08/17

CONWAY

624 Cricket Hill Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $512,000
Buyer: Edwin Spencer
Seller: Thomas H. Lewis
Date: 12/08/17

350 Reeds Bridge Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $239,500
Buyer: Peter B. Farber
Seller: Joellen Reino
Date: 12/07/17

DEERFIELD

32 Elm St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Dawa Tsering
Seller: Lauri A. Fennell
Date: 12/06/17

63 Hawks Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $257,000
Buyer: Xuliang Jiang
Seller: Donald A. Junkins
Date: 12/15/17

88 Hillside Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Lauri Fennell
Seller: Abbott Lowell Cummings LT
Date: 12/06/17

68 North Main St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Leonard T. Grybko
Seller: William F. Kieras
Date: 12/12/17

59 Sugarloaf St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Brian T. Johnson
Seller: Malcolm J. Cichy
Date: 12/15/17

ERVING

87 Old State Road
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jared Ewart
Seller: Melinda A. Chase
Date: 12/15/17

GREENFIELD

188 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Brittany A. Senn
Seller: Gary King
Date: 12/15/17

614 Colrain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Samuel H. Clarke
Seller: Joyce L. Muka
Date: 12/05/17

36 Cooke St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $251,000
Buyer: Timothy R. Putnam
Seller: Rosemarie E. Deskavich
Date: 12/05/17

2 Fiske Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Dolkar Gyaltsen
Seller: Steven J. Schechterle
Date: 12/04/17

18 French King Hwy.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: CA Cole Properties LLC
Seller: Baker, Charlotte A., (Estate)
Date: 12/15/17

93 Highland Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Merrill J. Gagne
Seller: Hayer, Lorraine D., (Estate)
Date: 12/08/17

221 Hope St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $145,842
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Vanessa L. Fortin
Date: 12/12/17

54 Riddell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Chandra A. Sanchez
Seller: Melissa A. Caloon
Date: 12/15/17

42 Washington St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Paul E. Montplaisir
Seller: Gordon E. Cranston
Date: 12/08/17

HEATH

4 East Main St.
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jordan J. Lively
Seller: David J. Zahniser
Date: 12/08/17

MONTAGUE

3 Bridge St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Stillwater Properties LLC
Seller: John J. Mackin
Date: 12/08/17

76 Broadway
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Timothy C. Mercer
Seller: Dean P. Wonsey
Date: 12/15/17

63 Central St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Charles A. Henderson
Seller: Karen Sturtevant
Date: 12/15/17

127 Chestnut Hill Loop
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Maylis Atkins
Seller: Sandy J. Beauregard
Date: 12/15/17

NEW SALEM

144 Neilson Road
New Salem, MA 01355
Amount: $236,000
Buyer: Richard H. Oliver
Seller: Debra J. Annis
Date: 12/08/17

NORTHFIELD

667 Gulf Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Cory D. Norwood
Seller: Linda M. Norwood
Date: 12/05/17

22 Old Turnpike Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Frances Deluca-Hadsel
Seller: Marion E. Ward IRT
Date: 12/04/17

ORANGE

118 Congress St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $192,400
Buyer: Kevin L. Rheault
Seller: Manuel D. King
Date: 12/08/17

SHUTESBURY

5 Birch Dr.
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $263,200
Buyer: Philip Parker
Seller: EDS Enterprises LLC
Date: 12/08/17

SUNDERLAND

495 Montague Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $316,000
Buyer: Laryssa Kachorowsky
Seller: Kelley M. Sullivan
Date: 12/15/17

WARWICK

409 Gale Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $274,000
Buyer: Norman K. Ma
Seller: Donald A. Walter
Date: 12/05/17

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

116 Anthony St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Steven D. Costa
Seller: Thomas L. Vollrath
Date: 12/06/17

92 Anvil St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Vitaliy Izoita
Seller: Beverly S. Follis
Date: 12/08/17

120 Anvil St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Lawrence P. Valliere
Seller: Johnny Ramos
Date: 12/15/17

11 Charest Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Vincent R. Cimmino
Seller: Edmund G. Beauvais
Date: 12/15/17

26 Dartmouth St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Laurie L. Addoms
Seller: Brahman Holdings LLC
Date: 12/15/17

35 Elbert Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Nicole M. Megazzini
Seller: Winter, Steven T., (Estate)
Date: 12/15/17

82 Florida Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $227,000
Buyer: Jennifer L. Gable
Seller: Vitaliy I. Izoita
Date: 12/08/17

227 Maple St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Kathleen A. Morissette
Seller: Dana L. Shouse
Date: 12/05/17

24 Marlene Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $258,500
Buyer: Conor Martin
Seller: John P. Lombard
Date: 12/08/17

8 Robin Ridge Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $277,500
Buyer: Scott M. Cassidy
Seller: Shirley J. Smith
Date: 12/15/17

11 Silver St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Anthony Grassetti
Seller: Mary Mastroianni
Date: 12/08/17

225 Silver St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: Vladimir P. Kozlov
Seller: Peter Cecchi
Date: 12/08/17

92 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Stanislas G. Coly
Seller: Crystal L. Johnson
Date: 12/08/17

23 White Fox Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Michael D. Mclean
Seller: Vitaliy V. Gladysh
Date: 12/06/17

45 Zacks Way
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Robert E. King
Seller: Flora C. Main
Date: 12/15/17

BLANDFORD

14 Kaolin Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Frank S. Rice
Seller: US Bank
Date: 12/07/17

BRIMFIELD

130 5 Bridge Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $236,500
Buyer: Richard A. Gendreau
Seller: Paula M. Gendreau
Date: 12/06/17

1109 Dunhamtown Brimfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $518,000
Buyer: Michael A. Gallan
Seller: Karen L. Wallace
Date: 12/04/17

1172 Dunhamtown Brimfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $319,000
Buyer: Darlene A. Molett
Seller: David G. Carpenter
Date: 12/08/17

176 Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $242,000
Buyer: Kristina Ruel
Seller: Thomas P. Dowling
Date: 12/15/17

6 Saint Clair Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $306,000
Buyer: Lucimar Venades
Seller: Michael Pomarole
Date: 12/07/17

CHICOPEE

58 Acker Circle
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Jose M. Dones
Seller: Christopher Chutkowski
Date: 12/08/17

460 East St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Laurel A. Landon
Seller: Richard A. Czelusniak
Date: 12/06/17

22 Grove Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: Angela B. Pelletier
Seller: William Soja
Date: 12/05/17

115 Haven Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: David R. Heywood
Seller: Michael W. Guiel
Date: 12/05/17

57 Martha St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: James Huffer
Seller: James A. Chartier
Date: 12/15/17

12 Morton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Jonathan R. Shelkey
Seller: Diane M. Gay
Date: 12/04/17

450 New Ludlow Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: RJ 6 Enterprises LLC
Seller: Ronald R. Barthelette
Date: 12/08/17

85 Orchard St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Ghaeth Alsamraay
Seller: Diplomat Property Manager
Date: 12/15/17

48 Percy St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Matthew Pasterczyk
Seller: Charlene M. Ruel
Date: 12/08/17

80 Post Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Kristina Laplante
Seller: James M. Matte
Date: 12/15/17

41 Ruskin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Sam M. Methe
Seller: Felix M. Romero
Date: 12/15/17

41 Wilmont St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Felix L. Lopez
Seller: Jeffrey J. Turgeon
Date: 12/04/17

51 Woodcrest Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $243,000
Buyer: Daryl R. Kirby
Seller: Jeffrey Guyott
Date: 12/08/17

EAST LONGMEADOW

29 Brookhaven Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Luke Saglimbeni
Seller: Michael G. Robare
Date: 12/15/17

201 Gates Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Francisco A. Rosa-Toledo
Seller: Jeffrey M. Doe
Date: 12/15/17

346 Kibbe Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: John Bacevicius
Seller: Robert R. Barry
Date: 12/15/17

11 Kronvall Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Ralph E. Cooley
Seller: John D. Santos
Date: 12/05/17

281 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Dores Dental Realty Co.
Seller: Maple Street Building LLC
Date: 12/14/17

3 North St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Marc Magnani
Seller: Magnani, Faye S., (Estate)
Date: 12/11/17

178 Patterson Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Jessica Northup
Seller: Laurie Kimball
Date: 12/15/17

225 Shaker Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $304,000
Buyer: Jason Guinipero
Seller: Michael Pluta
Date: 12/05/17

12 Somers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $645,000
Buyer: Madrid Realty 9 LLC
Seller: Secure Energy Realty LLC
Date: 12/08/17

5 Voyer Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Michael White
Seller: Tram T. Nguyen
Date: 12/08/17

38 White Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $329,900
Buyer: Jeyline T. Moulier
Seller: John M. Handzel
Date: 12/04/17

GRANVILLE

37 Old Westfield Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Landon D. Demay
Seller: Annmarie Maceyka
Date: 12/04/17

122 Sodom St.
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $121,000
Buyer: Ruby Realty LLC
Seller: Stuart Hayden
Date: 12/15/17

HOLLAND

164 Stafford Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Peter M. Faria
Seller: Wright, Carolyn A., (Estate)
Date: 12/08/17

91 Sturbridge Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Matthew R. Tolson
Seller: George A. Phillips
Date: 12/11/17

HOLYOKE

10 Bray Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Michelle J. Dailey
Seller: Allison M. Wolohan
Date: 12/15/17

380-R Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Marjos LLC
Seller: 380R Dwight Street LLC
Date: 12/05/17

85 Eastern Promenade St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $233,400
Buyer: John A. Kennedy
Seller: Marguerite Marino
Date: 12/11/17

66 Ely St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $181,200
Buyer: Jesus R. Perez
Seller: Janusz Lecko
Date: 12/12/17

42-44 Florence Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Saray Nop
Seller: No Place Like Home Properties
Date: 12/15/17

56 Francis Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $226,000
Buyer: Emily M. Monfette
Seller: Flippin Good Home Buyers
Date: 12/05/17

291 Hillside Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Chester N. Bennett
Seller: Coakley Corp.
Date: 12/15/17

305 Hillside Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Meghan R. Morton
Seller: Olive R. Cameron
Date: 12/15/17

31 Hitchcock St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Luis A. Rivera
Seller: Noreen M. Geraghty
Date: 12/14/17

956 Main St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $121,000
Buyer: Bernard E. Lafond
Seller: Carmen M. Potvin
Date: 12/07/17

142 Michigan Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $207,000
Buyer: Dominic Perri
Seller: Brian F. Baker
Date: 12/15/17

1684 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Gallagher Properties LLC
Seller: Lisa A. Reed
Date: 12/13/17

19 Norwood Terrace
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $130,500
Buyer: Coakley Corp.
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank
Date: 12/15/17

405 Southampton Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Michael B. Callini
Seller: Misdalia Robles
Date: 12/15/17

131 Sycamore St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $175,500
Buyer: Matthew Goulding
Seller: Daniel A. Leclair
Date: 12/15/17

LONGMEADOW

139 Ashford Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $980,000
Buyer: Susanne D. Osofsky
Seller: Sumner E. Karas
Date: 12/06/17

28 Briarcliff Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Matthew Bertuzzi
Seller: JGS Lifecare Corp.
Date: 12/15/17

383 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $232,500
Buyer: Andrew S. Felix
Seller: David H. Burstein
Date: 12/11/17

168 Edgewood Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: 88 Casino Terrace LLC
Seller: Robert E. Loughman
Date: 12/14/17

2 Hilltop Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Sean M. Kenney
Seller: Michael Kennedy
Date: 12/15/17

148 Homestead Blvd.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Gregg R. Skowronski
Seller: Christopher D. Burke
Date: 12/14/17

111 Nevins Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $209,700
Buyer: Brianna J. Butcher
Seller: Alexander Kubacki
Date: 12/15/17

Tanglewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Lynn B. Larochelle
Seller: Andrea Moses
Date: 12/08/17

146 Tanglewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Steven J. Danishevsky
Seller: Baker, Eugene Z., (Estate)
Date: 12/14/17

54 White Oaks Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Erin Rauseo
Seller: Andrew M. Anderlonis
Date: 12/15/17

LUDLOW

23 Adams St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Joshua E. Picard
Seller: Stone Bear LLC
Date: 12/04/17

28 Brimfield St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: Lauren Mettey
Seller: Ryan J. Leveille
Date: 12/12/17

206 Cady St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: Katherine M. Dias
Seller: Anthony E. Pelletier
Date: 12/05/17

66 Fuller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $151,000
Buyer: John Heckman
Seller: Elaine Sabourin
Date: 12/07/17

48 Jackie Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Stephen Nembirkow
Seller: Nicholas Cocchi
Date: 12/04/17

38 King St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Adam J. Babiec
Seller: Donald E. Burrage
Date: 12/15/17

519 Moore St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: Ryan J. Leveille
Seller: Ryan E. Allore
Date: 12/14/17

85-87 Oak St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: 85-87 Oak Street LLC
Seller: Ezequiel Mauricio
Date: 12/13/17

Sunset Ridge #3
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Daniel Matias
Seller: Baystate Developers Inc.
Date: 12/11/17

128 Williams St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jordan A. Liszka
Seller: Sally A. Zielinski
Date: 12/08/17

156 Windwood Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Jason R. Pease
Seller: Victor Felix
Date: 12/14/17

MONSON

91 Bethany Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: 91 Bethany Road LLC
Seller: Gordon, Wayne D., (Estate)
Date: 12/13/17

6 Flynt Ave.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $241,080
Buyer: Flynt Green LLC
Seller: Lewis T. Garreffa
Date: 12/15/17

36 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: 36 Main Street LLC
Seller: Darlene A. Falcone
Date: 12/07/17

210 Moulton Hill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Nichole M. Malone
Seller: Brien A. Couture
Date: 12/15/17

102 Wilbraham Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $190,130
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: David A. Wood
Date: 12/15/17

121 Wilbraham Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $268,000
Buyer: Luke W. Cardone
Seller: Craig G. Worrall
Date: 12/08/17

MONTGOMERY

1579 Russell Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $248,000
Buyer: Arthur S. Cantler
Seller: Edward J. Healy
Date: 12/05/17

PALMER

58 Ruggles St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $174,990
Buyer: Roberto Ramos
Seller: US Bank
Date: 12/12/17

17 Searle St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $194,000
Buyer: Richard M. Atkinson
Seller: Thomas R. Maciag
Date: 12/11/17

SOUTHWICK

16 Granaudo Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Gagnon
Seller: Daniel J. Gagnon
Date: 12/12/17

3 Secluded Rdg
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $376,500
Buyer: Diamantis Diamantopoulos
Seller: Lucindy M. Napoli
Date: 12/13/17

17 White St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $145,601
Buyer: John Gulbrandsen
Seller: NRZ Reo 6 Corp.
Date: 12/11/17

8 Wintergreen Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Peter J. Olson
Seller: Edward G. Montagna
Date: 12/15/17

SPRINGFIELD

154-156 Abbe Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $123,700
Buyer: Miguel A. Rodriguez
Seller: Robert A. Arcott
Date: 12/04/17

752-754 Alden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $137,500
Buyer: Jeremy D. Harrington
Seller: Bessie L. Anderson
Date: 12/14/17

65 Aldrew Terrace
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $161,000
Buyer: Antonio P. Dangelo
Seller: Andrew A. Bolduc
Date: 12/15/17

76 Ambrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $177,700
Buyer: Dawlin Jimenez
Seller: Capital Income Growth Fund
Date: 12/15/17

75 Anniversary St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Emmanuel M. Galanis
Seller: Mirian D. Detres
Date: 12/08/17

74-76 Appleton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Purna Ramdam
Seller: Nanette Figueroa
Date: 12/04/17

155 Arcadia Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $146,900
Buyer: James Kneeskern
Seller: Lisa M. Carpenter
Date: 12/08/17

147 Atherton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Josiah D. Cook
Seller: Charles D. Sullivan
Date: 12/15/17

46 Audley Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Erik S. King
Seller: Conor R. Martin
Date: 12/08/17

102 Avery St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: Joshua Ocasio
Seller: Terrell M. Hill
Date: 12/11/17

57 Bremen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Kathleen M. Diederich
Seller: Luis A. Escobar
Date: 12/15/17

791-793 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Alexander Perez
Seller: Ahmad Habboub
Date: 12/12/17

838-840 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Aaron Nugent
Seller: Sullivan, Thomas J., (Estate)
Date: 12/15/17

17-19 Castle St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Paul R. Connors
Seller: Elaine A. Connors
Date: 12/05/17

679-681 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Pedro D. Perez-Urena
Seller: Linda G. Menard
Date: 12/05/17

87 Clantoy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Rosario
Seller: Debra Deleon
Date: 12/15/17

33 Cuff Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Justin G. Worthington
Seller: Ysabel Espinal
Date: 12/08/17

11 Denesley Road
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Randall J. Fortunato
Seller: Amy E. Butler
Date: 12/08/17

120 Devens St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Norberto C. Silva
Seller: Jamie Tomas
Date: 12/15/17

223 Drexel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: Juana Corporan
Seller: Real G. Roy
Date: 12/13/17

120 Entrybrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Debra Phillips
Seller: Rebecca A. Cabana
Date: 12/08/17

19 Eton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Anne M. Lamothe
Seller: Robert E. Freeman
Date: 12/08/17

36 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $128,800
Buyer: Midna L. Ramos
Seller: Anthony C. Scibelli
Date: 12/08/17

75 Gillette Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Daniel Triggs
Seller: Dean M. Rossi
Date: 12/15/17

67-69 Hamburg St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Adriana Bledsoe
Seller: Maria R. Dapiedade
Date: 12/07/17

90 Harkness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $141,500
Buyer: Jacob Maier
Seller: Ian R. O’Donnell
Date: 12/04/17

85 Harmon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Emily Troczynski
Seller: James Niedbala
Date: 12/15/17

35 Heywood St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $9,189,000
Buyer: Behavioral Health Network
Seller: Honore LLC
Date: 12/14/17

84 Hilltop St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Shernet A. Reid
Seller: Lester C. McDonald
Date: 12/15/17

18-20 Howes St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: William D. Kelley
Seller: Shawn P. Johnson
Date: 12/13/17

353 Island Pond Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Teshena I. Jones-Swaby
Seller: Ryan D. Deane
Date: 12/07/17

46 Jerilis Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Olga Gardner
Seller: Daisy Arrechea
Date: 12/07/17

417 Liberty St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $9,189,000
Buyer: Behavioral Health Network
Seller: Honore LLC
Date: 12/14/17

23 Lucerne Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Christine M. Jalbert
Seller: Michael T. Zolkiewicz
Date: 12/08/17

91 Lumae St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Maxime Sarpong-Aduna
Seller: Lourdes Mazza
Date: 12/15/17

104 Lyons St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: David Torres
Seller: Ana M. Ladeira
Date: 12/15/17

28 Manchester Terrace
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: Rebecca H. Rees
Seller: Brian T. Morrissette
Date: 12/15/17

55 Marengo Park
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Mark E. Flowers
Seller: Emerald City Rentals LLC
Date: 12/15/17

4 Mary St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Orville A. Lugg
Seller: Christopher G. Rossman
Date: 12/05/17

20 Massachusetts Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Winsome A. Roberts
Seller: Winston Roberts
Date: 12/15/17

34 Mattoon St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Sanshah LLC
Seller: David Funai
Date: 12/15/17

34 Mayflower Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Demaio
Seller: Erin L. Hogan
Date: 12/15/17

88 Meadow St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jessica Morales
Seller: Christine Wurszt
Date: 12/08/17

10 Monroe St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $152,337
Buyer: Alexandra Fortich
Seller: AAD LLC
Date: 12/11/17

67 Mulberry St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Second Chance Animal Services
Seller: Commonwealth Academy Holding
Date: 12/11/17

203 Naismith St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Zarouhe Kebabjian
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 12/06/17

273 Naismith St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Khadija H. Tuitt
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 12/11/17

123 Newhouse St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Jeffrey McDonald
Seller: Robert W. Horne
Date: 12/06/17

124 Newhouse St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Joseph R. Eagan
Seller: John W. Barrett
Date: 12/08/17

54 Newland St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Roxie Alison
Seller: Lee J. Reyes
Date: 12/11/17

64-68 Osgood St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $1,350,000
Buyer: 64-68 Osgood Street LLC
Seller: Oleg Pashchenko
Date: 12/07/17

11 Ozark St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Gelson D. Rosario
Seller: Onota Rental LLC
Date: 12/04/17

130 Packard Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Lisa A. Stovall
Seller: Parent, Edeltraud E., (Estate)
Date: 12/15/17

715 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Flora C. Main
Seller: Robin M. Pelletier
Date: 12/15/17

15 Prince St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $137,500
Buyer: Billy L. Clark
Seller: Lisa A. Stovall
Date: 12/15/17

55 Ravenwood St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Diane Anderson
Seller: Strzempek, Jennie R., (Estate)
Date: 12/06/17

125 Rochford Circle
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $130,380
Buyer: Citizens Bank
Seller: Angel G. Perez
Date: 12/07/17

57 Rochford Circle
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Melanie R. Patterson
Seller: Angel Angelov
Date: 12/08/17

261 Roosevelt Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Mon Tiwari
Seller: Michael A. White
Date: 12/08/17

811 Saint James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: HSBC Bank
Seller: Doris Fernandez
Date: 12/07/17

90 Spear Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $162,740
Buyer: Western Mass Property Development
Seller: AJN Rentals LLC
Date: 12/08/17

377 Stapleton Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Gadiel Ruiz
Seller: Nasser Zebian
Date: 12/08/17

700 State St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Pride LP
Seller: Developspringfield Corp.
Date: 12/15/17

1043 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $123,795
Buyer: Opus Durum LLC
Seller: FNMA
Date: 12/07/17

5 Teakwood Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Diana Ortega
Seller: Citimortgage Inc.
Date: 12/08/17

Thompson St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Pride LP
Seller: Developspringfield Corp.
Date: 12/15/17

97 Wachusett St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Sheileen Feliciano
Seller: Cooper Properties LLC
Date: 12/08/17

22 Warner St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $134,900
Buyer: Greenfield Development
Seller: Noemi Cruz
Date: 12/07/17

101 Wason Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $12,387,500
Buyer: 101 Wason Avenue LLC
Seller: Yukon Group LLC
Date: 12/13/17

36 Westernview St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Elmer J. Baez
Seller: Tania Ruiz
Date: 12/15/17

80 Woodcrest Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $191,000
Buyer: Matthew S. Bouffard
Seller: Margaret M. Johnston
Date: 12/12/17

TOLLAND

1403 Burt Hill Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $296,500
Buyer: Gordon S. Yocher
Seller: John J. Cournoyer
Date: 12/15/17

WALES

10 Holland Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Christopher Matczak
Seller: Jennifer M. Hartmann
Date: 12/15/17

WEST SPRINGFIELD

201 Bonnie Brae Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Keith L. Laster
Seller: Michael J. Higgins
Date: 12/05/17

81 Braintree Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Andrew M. Zemanek
Seller: Marcia L. Landon
Date: 12/04/17

34 City View Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Fontaine
Seller: Paul Breveleri
Date: 12/06/17

209 Dewey St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Joseph C. Premont
Seller: Cardinal Homes Inc.
Date: 12/12/17

30 Druids Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: Eagle Home Buyers LLC
Seller: Lee, Christopher B., (Estate)
Date: 12/12/17

135 Grandview Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: David P. Wanczyk
Seller: AJMPC Inc.
Date: 12/08/17

326 Hillcrest Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Osamah H. Aljanabi
Seller: Richard P. Senk
Date: 12/14/17

116 Jensen Circle
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Jamie Bishop
Seller: John J. Taskey
Date: 12/15/17

50 Orchardview St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Brittany A. Valentine
Seller: Donald C. Bain
Date: 12/12/17

WESTFIELD

250 City View Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Daniel A. Leclair
Seller: Moreno, Daniel H., (Estate)
Date: 12/15/17

30 Court St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Caltrap Realty LLC
Seller: Barcross Partners LLC
Date: 12/11/17

12 Demond Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $156,120
Buyer: Charles E. Lisowski
Seller: Bazanchuk, Mary A., (Estate)
Date: 12/14/17

19 Hawks Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Kimberly Arnone
Seller: Heather M. Cabral
Date: 12/15/17

420 Holyoke Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: City Of Westfield
Seller: Thomas L. Disanto
Date: 12/12/17

186 Main St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Dustin Taudal
Seller: Michael R. Thomas
Date: 12/15/17

109 Miller St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $191,000
Buyer: Robert G. Rivest
Seller: Aleksandr Shtyba
Date: 12/14/17

15 Ridgecrest Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Julia Kimball-Whitney
Seller: Constance E. Johnson
Date: 12/06/17

27 Ridgeway St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $278,000
Buyer: Elise A. Lynch
Seller: Vanessa Filiault
Date: 12/08/17

142 Yeoman Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Matthew Perrier
Seller: Ernest A. Baker
Date: 12/06/17

WILBRAHAM

5 Anvil Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Anthony W. Bond
Seller: Santiago Canosa-Oliver
Date: 12/13/17

36 Glenn Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Philip H. Gosselin
Seller: Susy M. Martins
Date: 12/06/17

599 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Mountain Landscape Inc.
Seller: Poineer Valley Property
Date: 12/06/17

911 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $276,000
Buyer: Hesham M. Asif
Seller: Sherry A. Marchessault
Date: 12/04/17

5 Sherwin Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $419,900
Buyer: Kevin M. Farrell
Seller: AC Homebuilding LLC
Date: 12/15/17

171 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: RC&L LLC
Seller: Mitchell D. Opalinski
Date: 12/13/17

175 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: RC&L LLC
Seller: Mitchell D. Opalinski
Date: 12/13/17

916 Tinkham Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $239,900
Buyer: Elizabeth A. Busker
Seller: Sally A. Cavanaugh
Date: 12/14/17

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

351 Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Zayac Construction Co. LLC
Seller: Richard S. Bari
Date: 12/14/17

Lindenridge Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Bercume Construction LLC
Seller: Tofino Associates LLC
Date: 12/05/17

47 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $242,444
Buyer: Michael S. MacDonald
Seller: Oscar Liang
Date: 12/05/17

51 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $242,444
Buyer: Michael S. MacDonald
Seller: Ching Leang
Date: 12/05/17

1535 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $133,620
Buyer: Jean A. Kentfield
Seller: Theodore C. Kentfield RET
Date: 12/08/17

28 South Mount Holyoke Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Xiaowei Li
Seller: Carol Creswell-Betsch
Date: 12/08/17

BELCHERTOWN

12 Alden Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $239,500
Buyer: Steven M. Prejsner
Seller: Gary A. Parker
Date: 12/11/17

365 Bay Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $276,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Antunes
Seller: Ivette Rodriguez
Date: 12/08/17

44 Boardman St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Michael B. Mackay
Seller: Douglas E. Dickey
Date: 12/07/17

1 Brenda Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $224,000
Buyer: Roger L. Menard
Seller: Sivart RT
Date: 12/15/17

23 Lloyd Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: William N. Alderman
Seller: Servicenet Inc.
Date: 12/12/17

16 North Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Kristin Moyer
Seller: Chapter 7 Of US Bankruptcy Court Trustee
Date: 12/06/17

107 South Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $256,500
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Michael E. Allen
Date: 12/04/17

660 South Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $344,500
Buyer: Kevin W. MacMenamin
Seller: Riverbend 2 Properties
Date: 12/15/17

EASTHAMPTON

43 Bayberry Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Raymond Vieira
Seller: Bricker, Paul R., (Estate)
Date: 12/13/17

10-12 Briggs St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Jessica B. Accorsi
Seller: John F. Wiseman
Date: 12/06/17

26 Oliver St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $242,500
Buyer: Kani M. Brown
Seller: Goshen Mortgage REO LLC
Date: 12/04/17

21 Pine Hill Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Matthew E. Brelsford
Seller: Dewayne A. Matthews
Date: 12/08/17

56 Pomeroy St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Kenneth P. Bachand
Seller: David A. Hardy Contractor
Date: 12/04/17

15 School St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $186,900
Buyer: Susan G. White
Seller: Anne M. Leitl
Date: 12/15/17

50 Williston Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Boone W. Shear
Seller: Mary S. Cantler
Date: 12/04/17

GOSHEN

130 Spruce Corner Road
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Gerik J. Sienkiewicz
Seller: Nancy E. Grove
Date: 12/08/17

GRANBY

342 Amherst St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Ryan Bouvier
Seller: Roger P. Neveu
Date: 12/08/17

113 North St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Shaun E. Moser
Seller: Frank Costabile
Date: 12/04/17

115 North St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Shaun E. Moser
Seller: Frank Costabile
Date: 12/04/17

251 Old Goshen Road
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Jessica A. Riley
Seller: John Godden
Date: 12/14/17

58 Center St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Samuel R. Duda
Seller: Taylor, Maudetta A., (Estate)
Date: 12/11/17

HADLEY

13 Hockanum Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $451,000
Buyer: DU R. Shinn
Seller: LFT Transformations LLC
Date: 12/15/17

49 Middle St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $555,000
Buyer: Bakurental LLC
Seller: Walter D. Thayer
Date: 12/08/17

River Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Town Of Hadley
Seller: James C. Hoynoski
Date: 12/15/17

HATFIELD

98 Prospect St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Stanley L. Symanski
Seller: Malone, Geraldine M., (Estate)
Date: 12/15/17

NORTHAMPTON

76 Carlon Dr.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,235,000
Buyer: Safe Passage Inc.
Seller: Carlon Medical LLP
Date: 12/08/17

22 Claire Ave.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $257,000
Buyer: Holly H. Young
Seller: Sarah D. Haessler
Date: 12/08/17

337 Elm St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $542,000
Buyer: Patrick J. Lonsway
Seller: Lawrence P. Whalen
Date: 12/08/17

60 Emerson Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $649,000
Buyer: Mark Haselkorn
Seller: Richard Cianflone
Date: 12/06/17

16 Fruit St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $397,000
Buyer: Edith Mor
Seller: Irene M. Slabinski TR
Date: 12/13/17

Glendale Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Waggin Trails Dog Park
Seller: Bill Willard Inc.
Date: 12/15/17

173 Greenleaf Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Eric Patrick
Seller: Robert B. Berenson
Date: 12/15/17

64 Lilly St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Aleta J. Mills
Seller: Barbara J. Allen
Date: 12/08/17

61 Main St.
Northampton, MA 01039
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Tragin Properties LLC
Seller: Whalen FT
Date: 12/07/17

32 Myrtle St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Sherry L. Taylor
Seller: Bernice K. Bohnenberger
Date: 12/11/17

971 Ryan Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Dutch I. Cosmian
Seller: Harriet K. Smith
Date: 12/15/17

40 South Park Terrace
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Hailey E. Fleury
Seller: Susan J. Benoit
Date: 12/15/17

47 Winterberry Lane
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Melissa J. Mattison
Seller: Richard Wentzel
Date: 12/04/17

80 Woodmont Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Paul A. Hacking
Seller: Jaime Caron
Date: 12/15/17

SOUTH HADLEY

155 Brainerd St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Willaim VanDuzer
Seller: Frances Strzempko-Ahmad
Date: 12/11/17

234 Brainerd St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Michelle Williams
Seller: Robert J. Celi
Date: 12/15/17

283 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Kelly Ye
Seller: Megan M. Kuszewski
Date: 12/15/17

20 Meadowood Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Bengal NT
Seller: Vincent Muto
Date: 12/08/17

301 North Main St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Matthew Gage
Seller: Arthur J. O’Donald
Date: 12/08/17

18 Sunset Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $199,900
Buyer: Ryan D. Spahl
Seller: William VanDuzer
Date: 12/11/17

34 Yale St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Tetyana G. Buescher
Seller: Shaun E. Moser
Date: 12/04/17

SOUTHAMPTON

27 Mountain View Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $209,900
Buyer: Ayn K. Toppin
Seller: Evan R. Huff
Date: 12/15/17

WARE

62-64 Chestnut St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Juan A. Santana
Seller: JNB Property Investment
Date: 12/05/17

4 East St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $143,500
Buyer: Lakeview Loan Servicing
Seller: Edward B. Woods
Date: 12/14/17

93 Greenwich Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Daniel Bruso
Seller: Merrie J. Brown
Date: 12/08/17

152 North St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Michael P. Aiesi
Seller: Joseph M. Lanouette
Date: 12/12/17

Bankruptcies

Bankruptcies Departments

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

Alicea, Hipolito
31 Biddle St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/07/17

Beauchamp, Elizabeth A.
20 Marquette St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/07/17

Blanco-Munoz, Jacinto
165 Prospect St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/07/17

Boutet, Tiziana
63 Peterson Circle
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/17

Brown, Mary Ann
121 Lincoln St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/17

Christy, Natasha Irene
67 Marmon St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Ciborowski, Paul A.
Ciborowski, Beverly J.
27 First Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/04/17

Condron, Raymond A.
71 Daniels Terrace
Cheshire, MA 01225
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/11/17

Dascanio, Shane R.
119 Sampson Parkway
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/17

DeMatos, Christine Elizabeth
152 Ferncliff Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Doe, Season
PO Box 609
West Warren, MA 01092
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/14/17

First Security / Pro Se
Harris, Roney Louis
615 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/13/17

Freeman, Kenneth
26 Washigton St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Hill, Josephine A.
152 Old Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/13/17

Hill, Mark
152 Old Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/13/17

Jacobs, Jeffrey D.
217 Greenwich Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/04/17

Joe’s Remodeling
JS Home Improvement
Smith, Joseph E.
Smith, Susan A.
a/k/a Rivera, Susan A.
36 Montvue St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Josefiak, Tammie Fawn
a/k/a Fawn, Tammie Griffen
32 Luther St. #1
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/14/17

Kailo Mentoring Group
Bacon, Paul Charles
65 Logtown Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/17

Kiniry, Jacob Daniel
21 Victoria St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/13/17

Liberti, John P.
5 Somerset Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Lugo, Angel L.
7 Harlan St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/17

Luzanova, Aleksandra
51 VanDeene Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/14/17

Mansfield, Sean E.
39 Neptune St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Mosher, Tina M.
PO Box 304
Huntington, MA 01050
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/17

New England Building and Renovation
Boutet, Steven M.
63 Peterson Circle
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/17

Novikov, Dmitriy
41 Day St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/01/17

O’Brien, Kimberlie
a/k/a Depoutot, Kimberlie
113 Winton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/17

Parsons, James
151 Bryant Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/13/17

Payson, Stephen Carl
Payson, Michelle Lee
87 Pilgrim Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/07/17

Perez, Lena A.
12 Longwood Court
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Peters, Robyn L.
106 Harkness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01036
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Ramirez, Omar Azpurua
Flores, Wanda E.
41 Chestnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/14/17

Ricks Complete Lawn Care
Ricks Complete Lawn Care
Shove, Richard M.
Shove, Kathleen E.
PO Box 392
Lenox, MA 01240
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/17

Rose, Marilyn S.
Rose, Terrence B.
137 Lexington St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/14/17

Rowe, Elizabeth L.
22 Pasadena St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/17

Rubner, Lisa A.
73 Maple St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Sady, Lisa M.
a/k/a Perry, Lisa M.
20 North Blvd.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/17

Schroth, Marc J.
43 Bluebird Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/07/17

Stirlacci, Eleanor A.
92 Wildflower Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Streeter, Myra N.
231 Tiffany St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/17

Thomas Anthony Curtis Computer Consulting
Curtis, Thomas Anthony
a/k/a Curtis, Tony
a/k/a Curtis, T.A.
27 Highland St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/17

Thompson, Christine
a/k/a Runyan, Christine
120 Hamilton St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/05/17

Trade Press Inc.
Barrows, John W.
30 Fairview St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/17

Voyik, Jason R.
113 Geneva St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Voyik, Kaitlyn M.
30 Greenwich St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Ward-Walsh, Heather Ann
107 Second St.
Leominster, MA 01453
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/06/17

Wesson, Pamela
a/k/a Sweatland, Pamela J.
18 Paper St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/17

Doing Business as Certificates

DBA Certificates Departments

The following business certificates and trade names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2017.

AMHERST

Amherst Knights of Columbus #1619
45 Boltwood Walk
William Dion

The English Pub
15E Pleasant St.
Gerald Jolly

Harvest Market
1150 West St.
Peggy Thibbitts

Ichiban Asian Bistro
104 North Pleasant St.
Hangzhang Huang

Leslie Lauf, LICSW
150 Fearing St.
Leslie Lauf

Mixed Nuts Cooperative
893 West St.
Trustees of Hampshire College

Paradise of India
87 Main St.
Tarlochan Singh, Kuldip Khinda

The Prescott Bakery
893 West St.
Trustees of Hampshire College

Rafters Sports Bar & Restaurant
422 Amity St.
Gerald Jolly

Wings over Amherst
181D University Dr.
Harold Tramazzo

BELCHERTOWN

Tom’s Odd Jobs & Snowblowing
11 Laurel Ridge Dr.
Thomas Hresko

CHICOPEE

Lopuk Realty
125 Broadway
Gary Lopuk

TrueHeart Enterprise
234 Exchange St.
Lolitta Trueheart Lowe, Angela Trueheart

EASTHAMPTON

Rail Trail Auto Sales
1 Loomis Way
Kevin Netto, Jovita Netto

Realized Learning
47 Clark St.
Abigail Forcier

EAST LONGMEADOW

Alpha Waves DJs
84 Oakbrook Dr.
Dan Chrisis

Redstone Wealth Management, LLC
264 North Main St.
Anthony Cianflone

Spray Right Foam Insulations
49 Gerrard Ave.
Nathan Abdelmaseh

HADLEY

Dunkin’ Donuts
331 Russell St.
Mason Donuts, LLC

Dunkin’ Donuts
142 Russell St.
Mason Donuts, LLC

Friendly’s
455 Russell St.
Gary Glenn

Hillside Pizza
173 Russell St.
JKBC, LLC

Huaning Services
10 Indian Pipe Dr.
Jianhua Yang

Plainville Farm
135 Mt. Warner Road
Walter Czajkowski

HOLYOKE

K & D Auto Sales
18 Kay Ave.
Alexander Oquendo

Posters
214 Maple St.
Waybe Worsham, Nancy Worsham

TWC Auto Body & Repair
56 Jackson St.
Jamil Roman

LONGMEADOW

Night Owl Knots
38 Chiswick St.
Nicole Loud

Q5 Analytics
573 Wolf Swamp Road
Michelle van Schouwen

LUDLOW

Fresh Cuts By Toni
123 Shawnigan Dr.
Toni Marcus

Roy’s Auto Service
935 Center St.
Roy Cote

NORTHAMPTON

Brightworks Inc.
15 Higgins Way
Douglas McCarroll

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

Ernie’s Towing
376 Easthampton Road
Frank Fournier III

Finding Earth Works
29 Columbus Ave.
Alexandra Risley

Haven Body Arts
108 Main St.
Penelope Silverstein, Peter Kerantzas

Lean Innovation Institute
9½ Market St.
Paul Silva

More Than Skin Deep
150 Main St.
Diana Cerutti

Richard Huntley & Sons
254 Easthampton Road
Richard Huntley

TommyCar Auto Group
347 King St.
Carla Cosenzi Zayac

Wayside Auto & Truck Sales
376 Easthampton Road
Frank Fournier III

PALMER

Palmer Motorsports Park
58 West Ware Road
Fred Ferguson

Ramadon’s Package Store
2020 Main St.
Charles Ramadon

Sam’s Food
1078 Park St.
Muhammad Javid

Spera Landscaping
64 Commercial St.
Anthony Kinley

Van Zandt Snow Plowing
19 Forest St.
Robert Van Zandt

You R Special
1020 Central St.
Roslyn Banks

SOUTHWICK

Moolicious Farm
258 Feeding Hills Road
Joseph Deedy

Southwick Civic Fund Inc.
258 Feeding Hills Road
Joseph Deedy

Wolfe Path Farm
76 Coes Hill Road
Clifford Wolfe

SPRINGFIELD

Carney Diggs Construction
212 Ambrose St.
Martin Carney Jr.

Chef It Up Catering
57 Macomber Ave.
Carla Edmonds

CM Carpentry and Remodeling
232 Ambrose St.
Chris Monette

Comics and Cards
890 Carew St.
Maeghan Denise

E and Jay Transport
34 Mansfield St.
Elvis Malone

Joseph Mini Mart
125 Dwight St.
Hamidah Imran

Law Offices of Alice E. Kundl
115 State St.
Alice Kundl

Massachusetts Barber Expo
74 Oklahoma St.
Tyrone Miranda

Mi Cultura
304 Worthington St.
Horaida Cardona

Reynoso Construction
92 Grenada Terrace
Florencio Reynoso

Ron DeSellier Electric
97 Goodwin St.
Ronald DeSellier

Rosegold Lavish
145 Marsden St.
Edaysha Garrett

Sam’s Food Store
266 Belmont Ave.
Nasim Khalid

The Sporting Edge Marketing
208 Island Pond Road
Edard Guczek

Tatted Lace Creations
137 Bacon Road
Karen Northwood

Venta Pro, LLC
34 Front St.
Alec Upperton

Yabucoa Used Tire
218 St. James Blvd.
Francisco Ortiz

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Healthtrax Fitness and Wellness
155 Ashley Ave.
Marina Lebo

In and Out Deli Market
205 Elm St.
Goksal Cicek

Lee’s Painting Co.
105 Heywood Ave.
Dwight Lee

Lincare Inc.
53 Capital Dr.
Susan Yanush

Pavel Pavement Maintenance
70 Windsor St.
Michael Crean

Sarah Albert, LICSW
111 Elm St.
Sarah Albert-Perry

Sibley Property Services
101 Sibley Ave.
John Alexander

WILBRAHAM

The Burger Bar
2341 Boston Road, Unit 101
Laurie Bongioni

HobbyCosmo.com
1028 Stony Hill Road
Xuan Le

Inside-Out Home & Garden, LLC
2040 Boston Road, Unit 15
Norman Corigliano

Sugar DL’s Baked Goods
2133 Boston Road, Unit 6B
Berneice Dixon

Incorporations

Departments Incorporations

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

EAST LONGMEADOW

Fitness Jerks Inc., 45 Baldwin St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Michael Zolkiewicz, same. Physical fitness and training.

FL Landscaping Inc., 6 Kensington Ave., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Luisa Cardaropoli, same. Landscaping services.

LENOX

F17 Lennox Heights Inc., 260 Pittsfield Road, Apt. F17, Lenox, MA 01240. Suraj Sharma, same. Real estate.

LONGMEADOW

Forest Park Sports Inc., 102 Pinewood Dr., Longmeadow, MA 01106. Katharine A. Pacella, same. Non-profit that raises, manages, and distribute funds to support competitive sports.

PITTSFIELD

Egremont PTO Inc., 84 Egremont Ave., Pittsfield MA, 01201. Andrea Wilson, same. Provides a forum for parents, guardians, teachers, and school administration may share ideas and carry out projects for the benefit of the students of Egremont Elementary School.

Express Bus Inc., 10 Wendell Ave., Ext #210, Pittsfield, MA 01201. De Yue Chen, same. Bus tour company.

SPRINGFIELD

El Salto Inc., 1411 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119. Jose G Torres, same. Full-service restaurant.

Escuela De Capacitacion Biblica Antioquia, 25 Terrence St., Springfield, MA 01109. Raul Medina, same. Place of worship.

Exterior Remodeling Group Inc., 23 Benham St., Springfield, MA 01109. Eugeniu Ciubotaru, same. Remodeling.

Harnum Construction Inc., 53 Metzger Place, Springfield, MA 01104. William Harnum, same. To operate a construction company.

SUNDERLAND

Gwen D Gannon Inc., 31 Garage Road, Sunderland, MA 01375. Gwen D Gannon, same. Consulting program development and evaluation.

WILBRAHAM

Gardenrus Inc., 7 Evangeline Dr., Wilbraham, MA 01095. Brian Patrick Griffin, same. Online sales.

Briefcase

Briefcase Departments

UMass, Research Partners Aim to Improve Flu-season Forecasts
AMHERST — Research teams, including one led by biostatistician Nicholas Reich at UMass Amherst, are participating in a national influenza-forecasting challenge to try to predict the onset, progress, and peaks of regional flu outbreaks to aid prevention and control. This year, the Reich Lab is leading an effort to improve the forecasting by increasing the collaboration between groups. “Every year, the Centers for Disease Control host a flu-forecasting challenge,” Reich said. “It’s the most organized and public effort at forecasting any infectious disease anywhere in the world. Our lab is now in our third year of participating, and we find that each year we get a little better and learn a bit more. This year, we wanted to take it to the next level, so we worked with other teams year-round to develop a way that our models could work together to make a single best forecast for influenza. This entire effort is public, so anyone can go to the website and see the forecasts.” While this flu season has started earlier than usual in the northeastern and southern regions of the U.S., according to the most recent data, the forecasts are still showing a fair amount of uncertainty about how big a season it will be, Reich said. “The holiday season is a notoriously difficult time to forecast because typically fewer people go to the doctor, and yet everyone is traveling around spreading or being exposed to infections such as flu.” Reich and colleagues at UMass Amherst’s School of Public Health and Health Sciences collaborate with teams at Carnegie Mellon University, Columbia University, and a group at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico, in a group they have dubbed the FluSight Network. It issues a new flu season forecast every Monday for public-health researchers and practitioners that compares the flu trajectory this year to past years. In a recent publication, Reich and colleagues state that their aim is to “combine forecasting models for seasonal influenza in the U.S. to create a single ensemble forecast. The central question is, can we provide better information to decision makers by combining forecasting models and, specifically, by using past performance of the models to inform the ensemble approach.” Added Reich, “we are working closely with our collaborators at the CDC to determine how to improve the timeliness and relevance of our forecasts.” To prepare for this flu season, he and colleagues spent many hours designing a standard structure that each team needed to use when submitting models. This allowed for comparison of methods over the past seven years of flu data in the U.S. They also conducted a cross-validation study of data from the past seven flu seasons to compare five different methods for combining models into a single ensemble forecast. They found that four of their collaborative ensemble methods had higher average scores than any of the individual models. The team is now submitting forecasts from their best-performing model and are posting them once a week this season to the CDC’s 2017-18 FluSight Challenge. Reich estimates there are about 20 teams this year participating in the CDC challenge nationwide, who produce about 30 different models. Each model forecasts the onset of the flu season, how it will progress over the coming few weeks, when it will peak, and how intense the peak will be compared to other seasons. In a heavy flu season, between 5% and 12% of doctor’s visits are for influenza-like illness, and that number varies regionally in the U.S. This metric is one of the key indicators for the CDC of how bad the flu season is, and it is the measure used in the forecasting challenges. “Certainly for the CDC, there are policy decisions that could be impacted by these forecasts, including the timing of public communication about flu season starting and when to get vaccinated. Models can help with all of that,” Reich said. “Also, hospitals often try to have enhanced precautions in place during a certain peak period for the disease. If you do that too early, or for too long, you run the risk of individuals getting tired of taking the extra time to comply with the policies.” Hospital epidemiologists and others responsible for public-health decisions do not declare the onset of flu season lightly, he noted. In hospitals, flu onset — a technical set of symptoms reported to physicians — triggers many extra time-consuming and costly precautions and procedures such as added gloves, masks, and gowns; donning and doffing time; special decontamination procedures; increased surveillance; and reduced visitor access, for example. There is also healthcare worker fatigue to consider. Hospitals want to be as effective and efficient as possible in their preparations and response to reduce time and money spent and worker burnout. The public-health effort to improve flu season forecasts is relatively recent, Reich said. “There has been tremendous progress in how we think about infectious disease forecasting in just the last five years. If you compare that to something like weather forecasting, which has been going on for decades, we’re in the middle of a long process of learning and improvement. Someday, we might be able to imagine having a flu forecast on our smartphones that tells us, for example, it’s an early season and I’d better get Mom to the clinic to get her vaccination early this year. We’re close, but that’s not here quite yet.”

Massachusetts Adds 6,700 Jobs in November
BOSTON — The state’s total unemployment rate dropped to 3.6% in November, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced Thursday. The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts added 6,700 jobs in November. Over the month, the private sector added 7,300 jobs as gains occurred in leisure and hospitality; education and health services; construction; professional, scientific, and business services; and manufacturing. The October estimate was revised to a gain of 3,200 jobs. From November 2016 to November 2017, BLS estimates Massachusetts has added 65,200 jobs. The November unemployment rate was five-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 4.1% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Year-to-date the jobs and labor force estimates indicate a strong and stable economy in the Commonwealth. Since December 2016, Massachusetts is estimated to have added 62,200 jobs, 64,300 more residents are participating in the labor force, and the unemployment rate remains low, averaging 3.8%. November also marks the 13th consecutive month of private-sector job growth, with manufacturing adding 1,600 jobs,” Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Rosalin Acosta said. The labor force decreased by 8,200 from 3,656,000 in October, as 4,000 fewer residents were employed and 4,200 fewer residents were unemployed over the month. Over the year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate increased five-tenths of a percentage point from 3.1% in November 2016. There were 18,300 more unemployed residents over the year compared to November 2016. The state’s labor-force participation rate — the total number of residents 16 or older who worked or were unemployed and actively sought work in the last four weeks — decreased one-tenth of a percentage point to 65.4% over the month. The labor-force participation rate over the year has increased by 0.7% compared to November 2016. The largest private-sector percentage job gains over the year were in construction; professional, scientific and business services; leisure and hospitality; and other services.

Applications Open for 2018 Local Farmer Awards
AGAWAM — The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation (HGCF), in partnership with Big Y and a sponsorship team, announced the fourth year of the Local Farmer Awards, supporting local farmers in Western Mass. with funds for infrastructure improvements and farm equipment. Launched in 2015, the awards draw attention to the importance of local farmers to the region’s economy and health. “Big Y has been supporting local farmers since we began over 80 years ago,” said Charles D’Amour, Big Y president and COO. “Through our partnership with the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, we are providing one more way to help the local growers to thrive in our community.” Awards of up to $2,500 will be given to each recipient farmer. The 2017 awards were made to 49 of the 116 applicants. Essential to the program’s success has been the ongoing advice and assistance from the two regional Buy Local farm advocates, Berkshire Grown and Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA). “Local family farms are a part of our culture and economy and the reason we call this area home,” said Philip Korman, executive director of CISA. “This unique farm awards program makes it possible for family farms to strengthen that connection in our communities.” Added Barbara Zheutlin, executive director of Berkshire Grown, “we’re thrilled about the continuation of these financial awards for farmers in Western Massachusetts. This helps build the local food economy in our region.” The application is open through Jan. 31, 2018. Interested applicants are encouraged to visit the website for more information: www.farmerawards.org.

DevelopSpringfield Sells 700 State St. to Pride Stores for Redevelopment
SPRINGFIELD — DevelopSpringfield announced the sale of property at the corner of Thompson and State streets to Pride Stores for redevelopment. The site had been identified as a priority for redevelopment in the State Street Corridor Redevelopment Program, a plan focused on the economic revitalization of State Street and adjacent neighborhoods. DevelopSpringfield acquired the former River Inn at 700 State St. in 2013 with adjacent lots on Thompson Street to remove a blight on the neighborhood, promote revitalization, and prepare the site for appropriate commercial redevelopment. The organization performed extensive asbestos remediation, demolished the building, and prepared the site for redevelopment. “We listened closely to the interests of community members, including the Springfield Food Policy Council and the McKnight Neighborhood Council, to identify a developer whose project would meet community needs and be a good neighbor to the many residents near the site,” said Nicholas Fyntrilakis, DevelopSpringfield’s chairman. “Pride’s new store will offer fresh food and produce and address the community’s interests for healthier food options.” Added Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, “this is exactly why my administration created this public/private partnership of DevelopSpringfield. This in-question property had been a troublesome area for the neighborhood for many years. I look forward to the redevelopment of this site with a project that will bring jobs, tax revenue, and a quality retail operator who cares about our community.” The sale of the property was complete on Dec. 15. Construction is targeted to begin in the spring. The new store will include a Pride gas station and convenience store and will feature a variety of convenient food items, Pride Café Bakery, local produce, and fresh healthy food offerings. In addition, incubator space will be provided to a local food entrepreneur. “We are excited to bring Pride Markets to this important area of the State Street corridor,” said Bob Bolduc, owner of Pride Stores. “Not only will the store have the amenities our customers traditionally expect, but it will also have fresh local produce available through an innovative collaboration led by local food advocate Liz O’Gilvie, who will coordinate a farmer’s market on the site.”

MassDOT: $1B Invested in Infrastructure in 2017
BOSTON — The Mass. Department of Transportation announced that approximately $1 billion was invested in improving and upgrading roads, bridges, sidewalks, multi-use paths, and intersections across the state in calendar year 2017. This $1 billion in capital investments included repairs and improvements to 386 bridges in 123 communities and improved road conditions in more than 155 cities and towns across Massachusetts. An additional $30 million was programmed through the Complete Streets and Municipal Small Bridge programs in order to support local transportation planning and community bridges not eligible for federal aid. “The Baker-Polito Administration has focused on improving the reliability and resiliency of our transportation infrastructure to ensure that people throughout the Commonwealth are able to drive, walk, bike, or use public transit and reach the places they need to go,” said Transportation Secretary and CEO Stephanie Pollack. “By investing in our roads, bridges, sidewalks, multi-use paths, and intersections, we can provide better options to travelers and allow them to utilize their preferred mode of transportation to reach their jobs, homes, businesses, and places that improve their quality of life.” Among the notable construction project highlights from 2017 are reaching the full beneficial use milestone for the $148 million I-91 viaduct rehabilitation project in Springfield approximately eight months ahead of schedule. The majority of the work has now been completed, and the lanes and ramps on I-91 have reopened.

Company Notebook

Company Notebook Departments

AIC Offers Puerto Rico Relief Scholarship
SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) announced the opportunity for college students in Puerto Rico to continue their education at AIC at a greatly reduced cost. Through the Puerto Rico Relief Scholarship, the college anticipates that this temporary program will allow students to continue their studies while Puerto Rico rebuilds its infrastructure following the impact of Hurricane Maria. Students who have been displaced from Puerto Rico are invited to apply to AIC to continue their education for the spring 2018 or fall 2018 semester. Students will be offered a flat tuition rate of $10,000 per year. Individuals in this program will be able to apply for additional federal financial aid, which can assist in covering their remaining balance. The college will guide prospective students through the application and financial-aid process. “American International College was founded in 1885 to educate newcomers to the United States and prepare their children for citizenship and success,” said President Vince Maniaci. “Today, AIC boasts an extremely diverse and vibrant student body with a vision of access and opportunity for all. We are proud to take an active role in the Springfield community, including close ties to our Puerto Rican neighbors. With these things in mind, all of us — faculty, staff, and students alike — are aware of the devastation in Puerto Rico and want to provide assistance.” While some educational and residency restrictions may apply, students interested in learning more are invited to call the AIC admissions office at (413) 205-3700 or e-mail [email protected].

Family Business Center Welcomes PeoplesBank as Strategic Partner
AMHERST — The Family Business Center of Pioneer Valley is a learning organization of more than 60 member companies, providing opportunities for improvement since 1994. An important resource it provides is the wisdom and experience of expert advisors, who are the center’s strategic partners. Beginning in January, the center welcomes PeoplesBank onto its team of experts, joining Meyers Brothers Kalicka, Bacon Wilson, Giombetti Associates, Epstein Financial Services, Charter Oak Financial, the Axia Group, Johnson & Hill Staffing, and BusinessWest magazine. “PeoplesBank is very happy to be a supporter of the great work of the Family Business Center of Pioneer Valley,” said Matthew Bannister, PeoplesBank’s first vice president of Marketing & Innovation. “Family businesses are the lifeblood of our community and our regional economy, and we recognize how valuable the services provided by the center are.”

Baystate Wing Hospital Awards Grants to Local Agencies
PALMER — Baystate Wing Hospital announced an investment of $43,226 in grants to benefit local social service, health, and educational programs to area community-based nonprofit organizations. “These grant investments represent Baystate Wing Hospital’s commitment to support and work with our community partners to focus on public-health-related programs and initiatives that reduce health disparities, promote community wellness, and improve access to care in our region,” said Michael Moran, president and chief administrative officer for Baystate Health’s Eastern Region, which includes Baystate Mary Lane and Baystate Wing Hospital. Programs supported by the hospital’s grant investments include:
• Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp., $30,000 to support the Quaboag Connector, addressing the serious lack of transportation to employment, education, healthcare, workforce training, shopping, and benefit services within and outside the region;
• The Ware High School Fire Science Program led by Ware Fire Department Deputy Chief Edward Wloch, $7,034 toward the goal of improving Emergency Medical Service (EMS) care in the region; and
• Ware River Valley Domestic Violence Task Force, $6,192 to continue improved screening and response to those facing domestic and sexual violence in the Baystate Health Eastern Region.
“Our physicians, nurses, and staff all strive to improve the health of the people we serve through exceptional care and innovative health initiatives,” said Moran. “The Baystate Wing Corporation is proud to partner with area agencies to help us do this important work together to improve the health and well-being of our community.”

PeoplesBank Receives Green-business Award
HOLYOKE — The Sustainable Business Network (SBN) of Massachusetts named PeoplesBank the 2017 Massachusetts Sustainable Business of the Year for mid-sized business in Western Mass. The bank has been a long-time leader in environmental sustainability, having built three LEED-certified offices and financed more than $145 million in wind, hydroelectric, and solar-energy projects. “As the largest mutual bank in the Pioneer Valley, we deliberately invest in environmental sustainability in our communities,” noted Thomas Senecal, president and CEO of PeoplesBank. “That includes large-scale hydroelectric and solar projects, but also grassroots work with mobile farmers markets and local agriculture.” SBN was founded in 1988 as the nation’s first business trade association, with a mission of making business a vehicle for social, environmental, and economic change.

Bay Path Launches MS in Healthcare Management
LONGMEADOW — Healthcare today requires multi-dimensional leaders whose knowledge spans professional leadership, healthcare, science, and information technology. Coupled with the dynamic complexities of the healthcare system, increasing compliance regulations, technical advances, and higher costs, the demand for professionals who have expertise in both healthcare management and organizational leadership is rapidly rising. Medical and health service managers have strong career prospects, with projected employment growth of 17% from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. To respond to this growing need, Bay Path University has launched a master of science (MS) degree program in Healthcare Management, now enrolling for February 2018. “As with all of our programs, the curriculum for the MS in Healthcare Management supports the candidate in developing his or her skills in decision making, communication and presentations skills, interpersonal relations, and being an agent of change — all of which are needed for key level management positions,” said Liz Fleming, associate provost and dean, School of Education, Human and Health Sciences. “We are proud to add it to our increasing catalog of undergraduate and graduate certificates and degree programs in health-related fields that have been shown to result in immediate job placements upon completion.” Healthcare administrators come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some may have direct patient-care experience, while others may have specialized in business, administration, public health, or a specific area of healthcare, including human resources. This program is designed for individuals with or without a related undergraduate degree who hope to shape the future of healthcare. Bay Path University’s MS in Healthcare Management, led by Terry DeVito, aims to prepare graduates for leadership roles in both traditional and non-traditional settings and industries including healthcare organizations and facilities, consulting, law, insurance and government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare informatics and analytics. The program is designed to address the multi-dimensional complexities facing the 21st-century healthcare industry as it transforms into a business model while maintaining the humanistic needs of patients’ individual needs. The curriculum is structured in a manner that embeds foundational information that prepares candidates for additional credentialing opportunities for professional career advancement. DeVito’s practice as a registered nurse, hospital administrator, and educator bring firsthand knowledge regarding quality in healthcare service delivery and the qualities required in leadership roles. To learn more about this program, visit www.baypath.edu/healthcaremanagement.

O&P Labs Steps Up Again to Fulfill Christmas Wishes
SPRINGFIELD — For many years, Orthotics & Prosthetics Labs Inc. of Springfield has been a Secret Santa to the children and youth of CHD. This year, Maria Burke of O&P Labs visited CHD’s main office in Springfield and left with a handful of ‘wish tags,’ each noting a specific holiday wish, that she took from the giving tree on display in CHD’s reception lobby. Following the company’s tradition, O&P gave their staff time to shop for the gifts together during work hours, then paid for the gifts and returned them to CHD. “We are delighted to again be the Secret Santa for the kids of CHD,” said Maria Burke of O&P Labs. “Every single staff member agrees that this ‘work activity’ is their favorite. We are grateful to CHD for reaching so many in need during this season and throughout the year.” Added Kimberley Lee, vice president of Development for CHD, “all the tags were hung by reception with care, in hopes that O&P Labs soon would be there … and they were there! It’s heartwarming to have O&P Labs return year after year to help make Christmas a happy occasion for children and youth by providing a holiday gift — everything from a teddy bear to a toddler bed. It’s fitting that a company whose business is helping people year-round makes a special effort during the holidays to help those most in need.” O&P Labs provides high-quality, physician-directed orthotic- and prosthetic-related services, including custom-made braces and prosthetic limbs fabricated on site, as well as off-the-shelf braces.

Robinson Donovan, Gray House Partner on Adopt-a-Family Program
SPRINGFIELD — Robinson Donovan, P.C. ‘adopted’ three families as part of the Gray House Adopt-a-Family Christmas program. During the event, the Gray House pairs local businesses with underprivileged families to fulfill Christmas wish lists for their children. “Robinson Donovan takes pride in giving back to our community,” said Nancy Frankel Pelletier, a partner with the firm. “We’ve made a commitment to donate to a charity in the surrounding area every month, and we couldn’t think of a better way to wrap up this amazing year.” Robinson Donovan stepped up this holiday season to join forces with the Gray House to help make Christmas wish lists come true for three families, who would otherwise struggle to put gifts under the Christmas tree. In addition to the Adopt-a-Family Christmas program, the Gray House hosts a general toy drive for children in the community, and with the help of local schools and shelters, it collected toys for an additional 500 children. Throughout the past year, Robinson Donovan provided donations to the following nonprofit organizations benefiting the Pioneer Valley, many of which members of the firm regularly volunteer for, including Providence Ministries Service Network, Friends of the Homeless Inc., the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Bay Path University, Cutchins Center for Children, Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Hampden County, Community Legal Aid, Dakin Humane Society, the Gray House, Homework House, the Hampden County Bar Assoc., and Springfield Museums. “Robinson Donovan participates in many philanthropic events throughout the year, and staff consistently donate their time to those in need,” said attorney James Martin. “This is another opportunity where we can give back to those less fortunate. Christmas can be a stressful time for families, and our team strives to help ease the burden.”

Berkshire Bank Awards $14,000 to Jimmy Fund, Dana-Farber
PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank, in partnership with New England Sports Network (NESN), has awarded a $14,000 grant to the Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute through the Berkshire Bank Exciting Assists Grant Program. Dr. Pasi Janne, program director, Lowe Center for Thoracic Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, accepted the contribution from Gary Levante, Berkshire Bank’s assistant vice president of Community Engagement, during NESN’s broadcast of the Boston Bruins hockey game on Dec. 16. The Exciting Assists Grant program runs through March 31, 2018 and raises funds to support three charitable causes. Berkshire Bank’s Foundation provides $100 per hockey assist to the program. An assist is defined as a Boston Bruins player who shoots, passes, or deflects the puck toward a scoring teammate, or touches it in any other way which enables the goal. During the first portion of the season, the Bruins had 140 assists, resulting in a $14,000 grant from the Berkshire Bank Foundation. The Jimmy Fund, the first nonprofit beneficiary of the Exciting Assists Grant program, supports Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, raising funds for adult and pediatric cancer care and research to improve the chances of survival for cancer patients around the world. In addition to the Jimmy Fund, two other nonprofit organizations will receive funding during the remainder of the season, including Bridge Over Trouble Waters, which provides life-changing services for homeless and high-risk youth (promotion period: Dec. 16 to Feb. 9); and Boston Cares, which mobilizes and trains individual and corporate volunteers to fill more than 20,000 volunteer spots annually in support of more than 165 Greater Boston schools and nonprofit agencies (promotion period: Feb. 10 to March 31).

AIC Launches Rex’s Pantry to Assist People in Need
SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) recently launched Rex’s Pantry, a food and necessities pantry housed on the AIC campus to assist community members in need. On Dec. 22, the inaugural deliveries took place, with 100 Rex to the Rescue kits going to Friends of the Homeless on Worthington Street. The kits contained an assortment of hats, socks, gloves, and foot and hand warmers. Later, AIC personnel delivered 100 Rex to the Rescue kits to the Springfield Rescue Mission, containing boxed lunches, bottled water, snacks, and non-perishable food items. “This time of year is celebratory for many, but we cannot forget those who are homeless or who struggle with food insecurity on a daily basis. While American International College reaches out to the community in many ways throughout the year, Rex’s Pantry is an opportunity for us to do more to help those in need of assistance,” said Associate Vice President for Auxiliary Services Jeffrey Bednarz. Later that day, AIC staff members stopped by Springfield Fire Department Station 8 and the Springfield Police Department with trays of lasagna in gratitude for first responders’ dedicated service to the college. The donations are a collaborative effort at AIC. Food was prepared by Chartwells Dining Services for Higher Education, a division of Compass – USA Foodservice. C&W Services and G4S, in charge of facilities and campus security, respectively, at the college, donated hats, socks, gloves, and warmers. The AIC Campus Bookstore provided backpacks to hold the contents of the Rex to the Rescue kits. Community members interested in donating non-perishable food items, toiletries, or other necessities to Rex’s Pantry are invited to call (413) 205-3231.

CHD Receives Planning Grant for Opioid Treatment, Recovery
SPRINGFIELD — RIZE Massachusetts, a statewide philanthropic initiative, chose the Center for Human Development (CHD) as one of six organizations throughout the state to receive $50,000 in design grants for its inaugural “Saving Lives, Improving Health: Redesigning Opioid Use Disorder Care” program. CHD was the only organization based in Western Mass. to receive funding. The goal of the grant program is to establish or expand systems of low-threshold, on-demand treatment to prevent death, support long-term recovery, and improve health and quality of life. An estimated 4% of people in Massachusetts have an opioid-use disorder, and 2,107 people died of an overdose last year. The six grant recipients will collaborate with dozens of different agencies and organizations within their communities to provide a more comprehensive system of care that will serve the most vulnerable populations throughout the Commonwealth. “It’s quite clear there is enormous potential and energy in Massachusetts to address the opioid epidemic in a thoughtful, innovative, and evidence-generating manner. This first round of design grant recipients all have proven track records of taking on tough healthcare challenges with creativity, compassion, and rigor,” said RIZE board chair Dr. David Torchiana, president and CEO of Partners HealthCare. The other five grant recipients are the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program, Brockton Neighborhood Health Center, Cambridge Health Alliance, Community Healthlink in Worcester, and Lynn Community Health Center. The grantees proposed promising approaches to delivering care for people at greatest risk of opioid overdose and addiction, including the use of medication-assisted treatment. “We need a treatment model specifically focused on our rural geography and more resources to fight this crisis in Western Mass. This RIZE grant will provide a critical infusion of funds to the area,” said CHD President and CEO Jim Goodwin. RIZE Executive Director Julie Burns said the organization will evaluate the effectiveness of the design grants using shared measures and data protocols and will fund two-year implementation grants for the programs that demonstrate the greatest potential. Implementation grants will be awarded in June 2018.

People on the Move

Departments People on the Move

Charlotte Hansen

Charlotte Hansen joined Polish National Credit Union as senior vice president, chief financial officer. Hansen, a certified public accountant, has an extensive financial background and a broad knowledge of community banking gained in her 27 years in the financial-services industry. Her areas of experience include financial and regulatory reporting, budgeting, strategic and capital planning, interest and liquidity risk management, process improvement, credit management, and product profitability and development. Her background includes senior management, CFO, and treasurer experience and responsibilities. She chairs the Financial Institutions Interest Group of the Connecticut Society for CPAs, an organization comprised of professionals in the banking/credit-granting industry. She is also a member of the Financial Managers Society Boston Chapter and a regular attendee of the Massachusetts Bankers Assoc. CFO Forum.

Hansen holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting from the University of Hartford and an associate degree in accounting from Manchester Community College. An active volunteer, she is treasurer and a board member of Connecticut Farmland Trust, secretary of Stafford Grange No. 1, and a member of the Stafford Family Services advisory board, and serves as treasurer of Down to Earth Community Farm in Stafford, Conn. She is also a member of the Danish Society of Massachusetts. “We are pleased to welcome Charlotte to our management team,” said James Kelly, president and CEO of Polish National Credit Union. “Her professional background, experience, and career accomplishments will be extremely beneficial for our continued success going forward.”

•••••

Nancy Garrabrants

The Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation, which serves communities in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire through programs, grants, and service, announced the appointment of Nancy Garrabrants to its board of directors. Garrabrants is the former associate dean of the Center for Agriculture at UMass Amherst, where she was responsible for the Nutrition Education and 4-H Youth Development programs. She was previously director and assistant dean of the Stockbridge School of Agriculture at UMass. She is an award-winning education professional with 32 years of in-depth expertise in agriculture from the business, academic, and youth-development sectors. “With Nancy’s experience in strategic planning, youth development, and nutrition education, she will bring a fresh perspective to our already robust board, helping us to further define and meet the needs of the communities we serve,” said Eric Schultz, president and CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and chair of the Harvard Pilgrim Foundation board of directors. Garrabrants holds an associate degree in floriculture from the State University of New York at Cobleskill, and a bachelor’s degree in vocational education and master’s degree in plant and soil sciences, both from UMass.

•••••

PeoplesBank announced the promotions and appointments of several key associates.

• Donna Charette was promoted to first vice president, Finance. She previously served as vice president of Finance. She has more than 28 years of banking experience, and earned a Leadership Certificate at the New England School of Banking.

• Christine Phillips was promoted to first vice president, Human Resources. She previously served as vice president, Human Resources. She has more than 15 years of human-resources experience, and earned a bachelor’s degree from UMass Amherst.

• Tammy Bordeaux was promoted to vice president, regional manager. She previously served as assistant vice president, regional manager. She has more than 20 years of banking experience, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western New England University and an associate degree in business administration from Springfield Technical Community College.

• Meghan Parnell-Gregoire was promoted to vice president, Business Lending Center manager. She previously served as assistant vice president, Business Lending Center manager. She has more than 15 years of banking experience, and earned an associate degree in mathematics from Holyoke Community College and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.

• Catherine Snow was promoted to vice president, commercial credit officer. She previously served as assistant vice president, commercial credit analyst. She has more than 30 years of banking experience, primarily in credit-related functions, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business management from Westfield State University.

• Paul Hillsburg was appointed assistant vice president, PeoplesWealth Advisory Group. He has more than 30 years of financial, sales, and business-development experience, and earned an associate degree in business management from Springfield Technical Community College. He holds Series 7 and Series 66 licenses.

• Xiaolei Hua was promoted to assistant vice president, portfolio manager II. He previously served as assistant vice president, portfolio manager I. He has more than 11 years of banking experience, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and an MBA from Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.

• Matthew Krokov was promoted to assistant vice president, portfolio manager II. He previously served as assistant vice president, portfolio manager I. He has more than eight years of banking experience, and earned an MBA from American International College, a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Westfield State University, and an associate degree in marketing from Holyoke Community College.

• Timothy Wegiel was promoted to assistant vice president, electronic banking officer. He previously served as electronic banking officer. He has more than 12 years of financial-services and banking experience, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western New England University.

• Cherlynne Mills was promoted to Business Banking officer. She previously served as assistant vice president, Consumer & Business Banking Center manager at the St. James Avenue office in Springfield, and has more than 30 years of banking experience. She attended Holyoke Community College and Elms College and is presently pursuing a degree at UMass through its University Without Walls program.

• Jeffrey Reinke was appointed to operational risk officer. He has more than 16 years of operations and financial-services experience, and earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in finance, from Western New England University.

• Victoria Thompson was promoted to internal audit officer. She previously served as internal auditor. She has more than seven years of auditing experience, and earned a master’s degree in accounting and a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a concentration in accounting, from Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst.

•••••

Kimberly Santos joined the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley (RAPV) as membership and meetings coordinator. She joins the association with several years of managerial experience in customer-success roles and training in operations management at Bay Path University. Santos said she is excited to leverage her experience and commitment to strong customer service to support RAPV members and produce a wide roster of events for members to enjoy. She invites prospective members to reach out to her to learn more about joining the association at [email protected] or (413) 785-1328.

•••••

Springfield Rotarian Paul Lambert received a District Governor’s Citation at the Rotary Club of Springfield’s Dec. 8 meeting. Lambert, a Rotarian since 2008, received the citation for his dedication and hard work as the Rotary liaison and Basketball Hall of Fame representative to the committee for the eighth annual Service Above Self award luncheon. The award honors those in the local community and in the world of basketball who exemplify the Rotary’s motto of ‘service above self.’ “If Rotary founder Paul Harris wanted to put together a Rotary dream team, Paul Lambert would absolutely be on it,” said Lamont Clemons, president of the Rotary Club of Springfield. “He is a hardworking, dedicated, and caring Rotarian.” Lambert is vice president, Enshrinement Services & Community Engagement at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. He has been with the Hall for 15 years.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

Chamber Corners Departments

1BERKSHIRE
www.1berkshire.com
(413) 499-1600

• Jan. 27: BYP Winter Ball, 7-11 p.m., hosted by Country Club of Pittsfield. Let’s take an evening to dress up and enjoy a ball together. It’s an inexpensive way to enjoy an elegant evening with music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, elegance, and an excuse to dress to the nines — and much more — with friends. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Jan. 23: B2B Roundtable, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Polish National Credit Union, 923 Front St., Chicopee. Sponsored by CHH Engraving Inc. An opportunity to connect and increase your contacts, generate leads, and establish relationships with other businesses. Cost: free to chamber members, but limited to one representative per business industry. Call Sarah Williams at (413) 594-2101, ext. 103, for more information or to sign up.

• Jan. 31: ChamberMaster Training, 9-11 a.m., hosted by Hampton Inn Chicopee, 600 Memorial Dr. This is a brief presentation on how to use ChamberMaster for chamber members. This is a great tool for all chamber members for some free advertising. Cost: free to chamber members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Jan. 18: Celebrate Success Event, 5-8 p.m., hosted by Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. The evening will celebrate the successes of 2017, share what has been learned along the way, and examine where the chamber is headed in 2018. The event will honor winners of the Business, Business Person, and Innovative Entrepreneur of 2017. In addition, we will reveal winners of the President’s Award and the Ambassador of the Year. We will also celebrate member milestones. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org, or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• Feb. 8: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Boylston Rooms, 122 Pleasant St., Suite #112, Easthampton. Sponsored by Tanya Costigan Events. This is a great networking opportunity and an opportunity to tour the new Boylston Rooms.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Jan. 10: The Chamber Coffee Buzz Morning Networking, 7:30-9 a.m. Check the chamber website for location. The Coffee Buzz is a great way to jump-start your day with an opportunity to meet business and community leaders while enjoying coffee and a light breakfast. Coffee sponsored by Spradley Deluxe Coffee. Cost: free to the business community. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com or call (413) 534-3376.

• Jan. 17: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and Sponsored by Applebee’s, 225 Whiting Farms Road (at intersection of Holyoke Mall). Join us for a casual networking experience. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drink specials. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Jan. 24: Candidate & Elected Officials Reception, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Gary Rome Hyundai, 150 Whiting Farms Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by bankESB, Dowd Insurance, the Republican, Marcotte Ford, Comcast Business, Holyoke Medical Center, and Ferriter Law. An enjoyable evening where local and state legislators, administrators, and dignitaries are celebrated. Mingle with this year’s candidates and elected officials in a casual setting. Ticket price includes appetizers, food stations, and drinks. Cost: $40. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Jan. 10: January Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Hitchcock Center for the Environment, 845 West St., Amherst. Sponsored by PeoplesBank. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

• Feb. 7: February Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Christopher Heights, 50 Village Hill Road, Northampton. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

• March 7: March Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by 50/50 Fitness, 251 Russell St., Hadley. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage, a division of Merrimack Mortgage Co. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Jan. 8: January Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Western Massachusetts Hospital, 91 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public. Call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• Jan. 10: January After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Refreshments will be served. A 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for chamber members, $10 for potential members (cash or credit paid at the door). Online registration will be available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

SOUTH HADLEY and GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• Jan. 23: Annual Meeting, 5:30-8:30 p.m., hosted by Willits-Hallowell Center, Mount Holyoke College, 26 Park St., South Hadley. An opportunity for chamber members to socialize with old friends in the business community and make new ones. A cocktail hour will be followed by dinner. The brief meeting will introduce the board of directors, describe the chamber’s various committees and their functions, and open discussion of 2018 calendar/plans/suggestions for the coming year.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Jan. 10: Professional Women’s Chamber Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring author Dr. Valerie Young on “The Imposter Syndrome.” Sponsored by the Eastern States Exposition. Cost: $35 for members, $40 general admission, $25 for students. To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Jan. 11: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Panel discussion, “Workplace Sexual Harassment in the Wake of the Harvey Weinstein Scandal: What Employers Need to Know to Protect Themselves,” presented by Skoler, Abbott & Presser. Cost: $30 for members ($35 at the door), $40 general admission ($45 at the door). To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Jan. 23: C-Suite Conversations & Cocktails, 5-7 p.m., hosted by CityStage, One Columbus Center, Springfield. Members-only event. Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Jan. 18: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, West Springfield. Only members or guests of members may attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you for these events. Register online at [email protected].

• Feb. 13: Lunch & Tour at the Bistro LPVEC – West Springfield, noon to 1:30 p.m. Join fellow members and non-members for a networking lunch at the Bistro at Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, followed by an informative discussion on the value of gaining skills in the trades industry and how we can promote to fill local jobs. Sponsorships are available for this event. Register online at [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
springfieldyps.com

• Jan. 18: January Third Thursday, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, 375 Elm St., West Springfield.

Agenda

Agenda Departments

Women’s Fund Mentor Match
Jan. 13: January is National Mentoring Month, and the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts (WFWM) announced its second annual Mentor Match, a networking event that aims to engage emerging leaders with seasoned professionals. The event will take place from 1 to 3 p.m. at the UMass Center at Springfield, and is open to the public. Featuring Bay Path University Professor Janine Fondon, WFWM board and committee members, participants and alumni of the Women’s Fund’s Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact (LIPPI), and community members, the Mentor Match is designed to connect members of the Women’s Fund family as mentors and mentees to share resources, experiences, and work together in order to achieve professional and personal goals. All members of the Women’s Fund community are invited to attend. RSVP by Jan. 10 by visiting www.mywomensfund.org/event/mentor-match.

Pet CPR, First Aid Course
Jan. 14, 21: Many people remember learning CPR and basic first aid in health class, but have you thought about taking a course which covers this topic as it relates to your pet? Jim Helems of Pet Tech has made it easier for pet owners to understand first aid with his PetSaver Training class. He travels throughout the Pioneer Valley offering this training, and next month he will offer this course at the Good Dog Spot. Pet Tech’s trainings have helped save the lives of thousands of pets. Participants will receive a certificate upon completion of the one-day course. The cost is $120 and will take place at the Chicopee location (35 C Chicopee St.) on Sunday, Jan. 14 and at the Northampton location (139 King St.) on Sunday, Jan. 21. Interested participants can register by visiting www.gooddogspot.net.

Caregiver Options Workshop
Jan. 17: Linda Manor Assisted Living in Leeds will host a seminar on caring for an aging relative or spouse, featuring expert advice from Sheryl Fappiano, a professional geriatric care manager. The session is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., and will include dinner. To RSVP, call Linda Manor Assisted Living at (413) 588-3301. Fappiano is a licensed social worker specializing in gerontology. She has worked for more than 35 years in a variety of settings all relating to geriatrics. Her team’s specialty is to help seniors age in place, with dignity and peace of mind for the elder and their family. She is affiliated with Elder Care Access, LLC in Florence and owns Golden Moments Adult Day Health Spa in Florence.

Equal Pay Act Roundtable
Jan. 18: The Massachusetts Equal Pay Act has been amended, and new provisions will begin on July 1. Attorney Timothy Netkovick will discuss the new provisions, its impact on employers, and discuss how employers can take advantage of the safe-harbor provisions from 8 to 9 a.m. at Royal, P.C., 270 Pleasant St., Northampton. The amendments present several substantive changes to multiple definitions in the Equal Pay Act, such as employer defenses, comparable work, statute of limitations, and salary-history inquiries. The new provisions provide employers with safe-harbor provisions if the employer takes affirmative steps within the previous three years and prior to the filing of a lawsuit. The cost is $30 per person. Checks may be made payable to Royal, P.C. and mailed to 270 Pleasant Street, Northampton, MA 01060. Advance registration is required, and seating is limited. Contact Heather Loges at [email protected] to register, or if you have any questions about this workshop.

40 Under Forty Nomination Deadline
Feb. 16: BusinessWest magazine will accept nominations for the 40 Under Forty Class of 2017 through the end of the work day (5 p.m.) on Friday, Feb 16. The annual program, now in its 12th year, recognizes rising stars within the Western Mass. community, which includes Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties. This year’s group of 40 will be profiled in the magazine’s April 30 edition, then toasted at the June 21 gala at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke (see below). The nomination form, which can be found HERE, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community.

Difference Makers
March 22: The 10th annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. The winners will be announced and profiled in the Jan. 22 issue. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. Tickets to the event cost $75 per person, with tables of 10 available. To order, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100 or visit HERE. Sponsors to date include Sunshine Village and Royal, P.C. Sponsorship opportunities are still available by calling (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

40 Under Forty Gala
June 21: BusinessWest’s 12th annual 40 Under Forty Gala is a celebration of 40 young business and civic leaders in Western Mass. The lavish cocktail party, to be held starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke, will feature butlered hors d’oeuvres, food stations, and entertainment — and, of course, the presentation of the class of 2017. Also, the third Continued Excellence Award honoree will be announced. Tickets will go on sale soon at $75 per person (tables of 10 available), and the event tends to sell out quickly. For more information, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

Court Dockets

Court Dockets Departments

The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.

HAMPDEN DISTRICT COURT
LKQ Corp. v. E & T Auto Body Inc.
Allegation: Money owed for goods sold and delivered: $3,647.50
Filed: 11/20/17

Angel N. Quintana v. Karaaslan Realty, LLC and Pizza Works
Allegation: Negligence, slip and fall causing injury: $6,688.04
Filed: 12/7/17

McCormick-Allum Co. Inc. v. Atlantic Furniture Inc.
Allegation: Money owed for HVAC and gas repair work: $14,891.69
Filed: 12/11/17

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
John Maloni v. James Garini
Allegation: Breach of contract: $25,000+
Filed: 12/1/17

Raymond Tirrell v. Eastern States Exposition
Allegation: Wage and hour violations, misclassification of employee as part-time and withholding of overtime pay: $100,000
Filed: 12/6/17

Specialty Bolt & Screw Inc. v. Stored Solar J&WE, LLC
Allegation: Money owed for goods sold and delivered: $28,695.06
Filed: 12/6/17

Ellen Zordani v. Centro Enfield, LLC and Global Management Solutions Inc.
Allegation: Slip and fall causing injury: $20,000+
Filed: 12/11/17

HAMPSHIRE DISTRICT COURT
Split Excavating Inc. v. Wildwood Court Management Inc.
Allegation: Failure to pay for plowing services: $11,525
Filed: 12/6/17

Melissa O’Neill v. Full Tilt Auto Body Inc.
Allegation: Unfair and deceptive business practices, conversion of automobile: $15,000
Filed: 12/13/17

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Donald Kendall v. Home Depot USA Inc. and Electric Eel Manufacturing Co.
Allegation: Product liability, negligence causing injury while using electric-powered plumbing snake: $50,000
Filed: 11/27/17

Richard P. Halgin v. William J. Botempi, DMD, MD and Berkshire Facial Surgery Inc.
Allegation: Dental malpractice
Filed: 12/7/17

Picture This

Departments Picture This

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

Shoot to Win

mercedes_9333 mercedes-9217 Nathan Vila became a Mercedes owner and overnight sensation with his dramatic shot in the Springfield Thunderbirds’ Shoot to Win contest just before Christmas. He ventured to Chicopee and the Mercedes-Benz of Springfield dealership on Dec. 28 to pick up the keys from owners Peter and Michelle Wirth, and it was quite the media event. Vila, who will ship out soon for Army basic training in Georgia (his mother will drive the car for the time being), is seen (at top) with, from left, Paul Picknelly, one of the Thunderbirds’ owners; Nathan Costa, the team’s president; and the Wirths.

Retirement and Elder-care Planning Seminar Slated for Feb. 3

SPRINGFIELD — A retirement and elder-care planning seminar will take place on Saturday, Feb. 3. Presenters include David Fedor, certified financial planner, practitioner, and chartered retirement planning counselor from Commonwealth Financial Network; Sharon Connor from Choices Elder Support; Mary-Anne Schelb from JGS Lifecare; Jennifer Kinsman from Acti-Kare; and Lisa Beauvais, estate-planning attorney.

This event will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the Church in the Acres, 1383 Wilbraham Road, Springfield. Although this event is free and open to the public, seating is limited, so call (413) 726-9044 to RSVP. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held on Feb. 10.

AIC to Host 78th Annual Model Congress