GREENFIELD — In the midst of the opioid crisis, and in a world in which many other diseases can be traced to addictive behavior, PBS’s NOVA investigates how addiction works, and how to resolve this dire social and medical issue, in Addiction, a film airing on PBS on Wednesday, Oct. 17 at 9 p.m.

Prior to the national premiere broadcast, local public television station WGBY will present a free public advance screening today, Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. at Greenfield Community College in Greenfield. The screening is free and open to the public, and is being conducted in partnership with the college and the Franklin County Opioid Task Force. Details are available at wgby.org/addiction.

NOVA joins scientists and sufferers alike as they probe the mysteries of addiction. They are discovering that addiction is not simply a lack of willpower; drug abuse produces significant chemical changes in the brain — changes that are hard to control and hard to reverse. And it is not just drugs; alcohol, sugar, caffeine, and even exercise can incite addictive behaviors.

Julia Cort, NOVA’s deputy executive director will moderate a community conversation with panelists following the film. Panelists include Franklin County Sheriff Christopher Donelan, internist Dr. Paul Carlan of Valley Medical Group in Greenfield, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Re-entry Coordinator Ken Chartrand, and Julia Crawford, co-producer of Addiction.

BOSTON — Richard Lord, who built Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) into one of the most far-reaching business associations in the commonwealth, will retire next year after leading the organization for almost 20 years.

Lord, a North Adams native and Williams College graduate who took the top job at AIM in 1999, will remain as president and CEO while the AIM board of directors chooses a successor.

“Rick Lord has built AIM into an organization of more than 4,000 employers from all sectors of the economy who believe that business should be a positive force for creating a better, more prosperous world. He has led the organization through a period of unprecedented growth and change, and created tremendous upward momentum for our next leader,” said Dan Kenary, chair of the AIM board of directors and CEO of Harpoon Brewery in Boston.

Lord made the 103-year-old former manufacturing association the voice of all Massachusetts employers on generational economic issues such as the cost of health insurance, taxation, education, worker training, and energy. At the same time, he expanded the membership of AIM into developing areas of the state economy such as services, technology, biosciences, and robotics.

His accomplishments range from representing the views of employers during the landmark 2006 Massachusetts Health Care Reform Law and subsequent 2012 Health Cost-Containment Law to expanding the AIM HR Solutions business to help employers both large and small manage complicated human-resources issues.

“It has been an honor and privilege to serve as president and CEO of Associated Industries of Massachusetts for almost two decades. It’s now time for me to set out on a new adventure while AIM finds a leader who will build on this strong foundation for the future,” Lord said. “I’m most proud of leaving AIM with the most talented team of professionals I have ever had the opportunity to work with. The primary asset of a business association is its people, and the staff of AIM enjoys an enviable level of credibility and respect among employers, elected officials, and key decision makers.”

Inquiries about the CEO position should, for the moment, be made to Christopher Geehern, AIM’s executive vice president of Public Affairs and Communications, at [email protected] or (617) 834-4414.

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University students joined Girls Inc. of Holyoke at the university’s Empsall Hall last week to launch public service announcements (PSAs) in honor of International Day of the Girl Child, a celebration designated by the United Nations on Oct. 11. The PSAs, created by students in the Communications program, reflected different perspectives on how to encourage and empower girls of all ages and backgrounds.

“By creating PSAs for International Day of the Girl Child that they really believe in, our students are not only building their skills in communication, they’re using curiosity to solve problems and inspire others, and it speaks volumes to their commitment to being strong, smart, and bold,” said Janine Fondon, chair of Undergraduate Communications. “In the Communications program, we are celebrating our ability to join together as a community to raise our positive voices for change, challenge, and opportunity. We’re glad that we had this opportunity with leaders and guests from the community to have the conversation needed for girls and women to be inspired, engaged, and curious.”

The event featured a ‘COMMversation,’ where university students and local panelists, including Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker, Women’s Fund of Western Mass CEO Donna Haghighat, Springfield School Committee member LaTonia Monroe Naylor, Open Pixel Studios co-founder and animator Kathryn Taccone, and author and Bay Path Professor Maria Luisa Arroyo, engaged in conversations about how to create a world where girls can feel safe as they explore their individual paths to success. Bay Path students of all disciplines used their storytelling skills to focus on what they feel are currently the biggest challenges, as well as opportunities for girls and women. A walk-through gallery of their PSAs was displayed, prompting discussion among guests, faculty, staff, and other students.

“To be among Bay Path University students, staff, and faculty, and other panelists from the community, was a wonderful way to start International Day of the Girl Child,” Parker said. “Talking about women’s leadership is something we are passionate about at Girls Inc., where we work to inspire girls to be strong, smart, and bold, so it was an honor to be here.”

Naomi Naylor, daughter of LaTonia Monroe Naylor, attended the event as a local student ambassador. She showcased and described a work of art she painted called “Colors of Acceptance.” Following the event, she donated this piece to Bay Path University through Fondon. Arroyo, who was Springfield’s inaugural poet laureate, signed her book at the event. The ongoing partnership between Girls Inc. and Bay Path University for International Day of the Girl Child was further highlighted in the afternoon as Fondon offered a presentation of her research for “The Intersection: Women of Color On the Move.”

WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) announced that Condé Nast Traveler released the results of its 31st annual Readers’ Choice Awards, with Bradley International Airport recognized as the third-best airport in the U.S. 

“We are very honored to be recognized among some of our nation’s best airports,” said Tony Sheridan, chair of the CAA board of directors. “Recognition like this elevates our brand not only regionally, but also nationally and internationally, and I’d like to thank the entire CAA staff for everything they do to make Bradley International Airport one of the very best in the country.”

Travelers gave the airport high marks for “convenient on-site parking, plentiful charging stations and free wi-fi, decent restaurant options, and an overall relaxed atmosphere.”

“We are thankful that the support of Bradley’s loyal, growing passenger base has again earned us a spot in the list of top ten U.S. airports, and we’re especially pleased with the improved ranking this year,” said Kevin Dillon, executive director of the Connecticut Airport Authority. “This prestigious recognition is a testament to our continuous commitment to enhancing the travel experience at Bradley International Airport. We’re very proud of our efforts to make Bradley Airport the best it can be for our passengers, and we thank them for their vote of confidence.”

The CAA has initiated major terminal enhancements at Bradley over the last couple of years aimed at elevating the travel experience. Recent upgrades include the addition of Two Roads Tap Room, Escape Lounge, a Phillips Seafood restaurant, a duty-free shop, and a mother’s nursing room — and more improvements are underway. Additionally, the expansion of the airport’s route network continues to be a priority, with the airport most recently celebrating the launch of its latest non-stop service to St. Louis.

SPRINGFIELD — Brand-development firm Six-Point Creative has made two recent additions to its staff, including Amanda Levy, client advocate, and Hang Tran, graphic designer.

Levy brings to Six-Point a combination of product-management and account-service experience. She worked previously for Bindertek in Belchertown, where she was lead merchandiser, marketing analyst, and, most recently, manager of product development. She has also provided freelance design and marketing consultation to businesses and nonprofits throughout the region. Levy, who graduated from Mount Holyoke College, will work with Six-Point’s account service team, with responsibility for serving a number of consumer and business-to-business accounts.

Tran is an award-winning designer with a degree in graphic design and interactive media from Fitchburg State University. She has provided creative direction, graphic design, image development, and production services for national and international brands while working for PUMA in Westford and for Brigade in Hadley. She will provide these services to Six-Point clients, including visual brand development for companies going through Solve for Y, a Six-Point brand-development process for innovative companies ready to scale.

HADLEY — Jeffrey Simpson, CFA has been promoted to vice president of Commercial Lending and chief commercial officer for UMassFive College Federal Credit Union.

The Commercial Services Department has a goal of supporting the local community and economy with competitive rates and terms on short- and long-term commercial business loans for working capital, equipment, commercial real estate, and special projects designed to bring greater efficiencies and cost savings to member businesses.

The department has begun its lending process to fellow business professionals in the area. UMassFive is also in the process of crafting business checking, savings, and money-market options, as well as a business credit card.

“I am delighted to see the development of the Commercial Services Department and the heights we have reached thus far,” Simpson said. “These services have strengthened relationships with current members, as well as bringing on new memberships with community members interested in commercial products.”

HADLEY — In 2016, Paragus IT CEO Delcie Bean implemented an employee stock ownership plan (ESOP), which distributed ownership of 40% of the company to its (at the time) 40-plus employees. On Friday, Oct. 19 at 2:30 p.m., Paragus and its now-50-plus employees will toast Employee Ownership Month and celebrate self-ownership at the firm’s headquarters, located at 112 Russell St. in Hadley.

The head brewer of Harpoon Brewery (another employee-owned company) will serve one of his favorite concoctions and field questions. Paragus staff will personally prepare and serve favorites from the Paragus cookbook, featuring unique home recipes from the firm’s employee-owners. Attendees will also receive a copy of the cookbook.

An ESOP is an employee-owner program that gives staff an owner interest in the company, making them shareholders in addition to being employees. In addition to Harpoon Brewery, high-profile ESOPs in the U.S. include Publix Markets, Chobani Yogurt, King Arthur Flour, and Lifetouch.

“After two years, it’s clear that the ESOP decision was a smart one,” Bean said. “It has fueled growth and inspired deeper commitment by giving everyone a direct stake and a personal investment in the future of the company. We look forward to having everybody celebrate Employee Ownership Month with us. And I’m curious to taste some of these staff cookbook recipes.”

SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden County Bar Assoc. Legal Clinic, in conjunction with law students from Western New England School of Law, will present their first annual Pro Bono Week on Oct. 15-19.

The week will consist of various Lawyer for the Day programs, which allow individuals to speak with a local, experienced attorney in person, free of charge. The volunteer attorneys will provide advice, answers, and guidance to self-represented litigants who need assistance in the areas of housing, family law, and general civil matters. The programs will be held at the Hampden County Bar Assoc. office, which is located on the first floor of the Roderick L. Ireland Courthouse, 50 State St., Springfield. The schedule will be as follows:

• Monday, Oct. 15, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., housing court, landlord/tenant matters;

• Tuesday, Oct. 16, 1-4 p.m., district court, civil matters, and housing court, landlord/tenant matters;

• Wednesday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., district court, civil matters; and

• Friday, Oct. 19, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., probate and family court matters.

All programs operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Times are subject to change. For more information, call the Hampden County Bar Assoc. Legal Clinic at (413) 733-6500.

SPRINGFIELD — Did you know Northampton and New York are the strongest destination pairing in Amtrak’s entire northeast system? Did you know expanded North-South passenger rail service is coming to the Valley next year between Greenfield, Northampton, Holyoke, and Springfield? Did you know the state is about to initiate a new study on east-west passenger rail as well?

If any of this is new information to you, join the Rail Users Network (RUN), the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, and Trains in the Valley this Saturday, Oct. 13 for RUN’s annual public forum taking place from noon to 5 p.m. at the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission offices, 60 Congress St., Springfield.

The event is free and will highlight the efforts underway which have already led to the expansion of passenger rail service between New Haven and Springfield as well as the proposed pilot program to offer additional service along the northern end of the Knowledge Corridor starting in 2019.

The program will also focus on the ongoing effort to establish seasonal rail service called the Berkshire Flyer from Pittsfield to New York City, and the east-west passenger-rail study that is currently underway. U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and state Sen. Eric Lesser will deliver welcoming remarks.

Registration for the event is not required, but strongly encouraged. Click here to register.

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) will induct seven accomplished alumni into the biennial Co-Curricular Hall of Fame during a brunch in their honor beginning at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 13. The event will be held in Schwartz Campus Center on the main campus as part of the college’s Homecoming Weekend festivities. 

Inductees for 2018 include distinguished alumni who cross generations from the Class of 1950 through 2009. Glendora Vesta Folsom Buell ’50 has enjoyed a historically successful career in television. Her show, A Chat with Glendora, has been syndicated on public-access cable television stations nationwide since it first aired in 1972, making it the world’s longest-running active public-access program. Emily Rivera-Nunez ’97, who received numerous awards for leadership as an undergraduate student, has gone on to enjoy a rewarding career in criminal justice and victim advocacy. Her husband, Luis Nunez ’98, is also an inductee. During his time at AIC, Nunez was an active member of the campus community, serving in student government, Model Congress, the wrestling team, and as a resident assistant. He is a senior development accountant and continues to volunteer his time and talent with youth wrestling and baseball. Kia Prescott Bandoh ’99, a biology major and recipient of Who’s Who Among Students in Colleges and Universities, went on to earn a master of physician assistant degree from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She is a physician assistant at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute’s Gynecologic Oncology Program with the Susan F. Smith Center for Women’s Cancers. Yolanda McCormick ’03 (MS ’05) graduated with a bachelor of science in sociology and criminal justice, and a master of science degree in criminal justice. She earned a second master of science degree in mental-health counseling and is a licensed mental-health clinician in North Carolina. 

Two longtime Springfield residents are also being recognized. Elizabeth Perez ’99 majored in criminal justice and political science while at AIC. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in educational psychology at the college. Perez has been a social worker and supervisor with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families for 19 years. Keshawn Dodds ’01 (MEd ’09) is the executive director of the Boys & Girls Club Family Center in Springfield. Dodds recently received the 2018 Ubora Award from the Springfield Museums. He was a member of BusinessWest’s 40 Under 40 class of 2012, and received the Stone Soul Community Leader Award in 2015. In 2016, Dodds became an Amazon best-selling author with his science-fiction novel Menzuo: The Calling of the Sun Prince.

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Technical Community College dental hygiene program and the Valley District Dental Society will co-host the second Community Dental Day on Saturday, Oct. 27. The event provides an opportunity for area residents who might not be receiving any dental care to obtain free treatment and schedule follow-up visits.

The dental hygiene and dental clinics in Building 20 at STCC will be open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Valley District Dental Society licensed dentists, together with STCC dental hygiene and assisting students, will offer patient education, health screenings, diagnosis, X-rays, and other types of urgent care.

“It will not be unlimited care, but there will be such treatment as fillings, extractions, sealants, and taking care of urgent issues,” said Dr. Martin Wohl, one of the dentists who supervises students treating patients at STCC. “We will not provide cleanings, but in diagnosing that someone needs a cleaning, we will be able to schedule a follow-up visit. We will be able to put them into the system to get routine cleanings.”

While Community Dental Day will be free, patients can return to STCC for low-cost follow-up care. STCC’s dental hygiene clinic on the second floor of Building 20 offers routine cleanings and various procedures at a reduced cost to residents of the Greater Springfield area.

“We’re excited about Community Dental Day,” Wohl said. “We had a wonderful response last time. The doctors feel they can again provide a valuable service, and they can help people that generally can’t find the care they seek. We hope Community Dental Day will get people to start thinking about making either here or elsewhere as a dental home.”

STCC will welcome anyone who needs care on Community Dental Day, but Wohl recommends calling the dental hygiene clinic in advance at (413) 755-4900 to make an appointment.

SPRINGFIELD — Six Flags New England recently held a diaper drive to support the children and families served by Square One. Thousands of diapers were donated by Six Flags patrons, and, in exchange, donors were given free admission to the theme park.

“We are so grateful to the team at Six Flags for constantly thinking of creative, fun ways to support Square One and so many other community organizations,” said Kristine Allard, chief Development & Communications officer for Square One. “We are overwhelmed by the generosity of the Six Flags leadership and members of the community who donated diapers to help us continue to serve families in our programs.”

More than 300 cases of diapers will be picked up at the Six Flags offices by Square One staff today, Oct. 11 at 11 a.m. and delivered to the Square One Family Center at 1095 Main St. in Springfield at approximately 11:45 a.m.

“Six Flags New England is thrilled to support nonprofits throughout Western Massachusetts. Each year the park supports over 3,000 nonprofits with charitable donations and collections drives,” said Six Flags New England Communications Manager Jennifer McGrath. “Square One is committed to supporting children and families throughout the area and aligns with the Six Flags philosophy on community outreach. We will continue to assist Square One and a variety of other initiatives throughout the area to better our surrounding community.”

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College will host its annual Transfer Fair today, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

Hundreds of area community college students are expected to meet with representatives from more than 50 four-year New England colleges and universities to discuss opportunities for continuing their educations. The transfer fair, always one of the largest such events in the region, will be held in the PeoplesBank Conference Room on the third floor of the HCC Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development.

At the same time, in recognition of Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 to Oct. 15), the college will be holding Expo Latino 2018, a celebration of Latino food, culture, music, and art right outside the Transfer Fair in the HCC Courtyard. With Latino enrollment now at about 28%, HCC is a federally recognized Hispanic Serving Institution, or HSI.

NORTHAMPTON — One of the many challenges employers face in today’s business world is the ever-present impact of technology. At a seminar on Thursday, Oct. 25, Tim Netkovick, an attorney with Royal, P.C., will discuss the impact of employees’ social-media accounts on the workplace, and employees’ right to privacy in e-mail and internet communications.

The seminar, slated for 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Royal, P.C., 270 Pleasant St., Northampton, will cover topics such as using social media during hiring, conducting an effective interview, dealing with confidentiality issues, and taking action on potentially harassing posts on social media. Human-resources professionals, CFOs, CEOs, and anyone in a management position, responsible for overseeing and/or hiring employees, may be interested in attending.

The cost is $30. For more information and to register, call Heather Loges at (413) 586-2288.

SPRINGFIELD — Hair salons are helping to make a difference in the fight against bullying, one haircut at a time, during the month of October, which is National Bullying Prevention Month. The salons will donate proceeds from haircuts, blowouts, and styling to Unify Against Bullying. Some salons will even offer temporary pink hair color — pink being the signature color of Unify Against Bullying.

Event participation ranges from a portion of proceeds from a one-day event to the whole month of October. Contact these participating salons for more information: Gasoline Alley, 250 Albany St., Springfield, (413) 788-4078; Posh Studio, 1372 Allen St., Springfield, (413) 301-7476; Salon Sage, 1325 Springfield St., Feeding Hills, (413) 276-0428; Siciliano Salon, 1362 Westfield St., West Springfield, (413) 746-4641; and Vivid Hair Salon, 99 Elm St., Westfield, (413) 564-0062.

Unify is also grateful to the following salons for making a one-time donation: New Decade Hair Designers, 375 Franklin St., Melrose; and Professional Barbers of Lowell, 103 University Ave., Lowell. Their donations were matched by LTI Business Solutions in Boston.

This year, Unify also announced that the following Paul Mitchell Salons in New York will be participating; Adam & Eve Beaute Centre, 1089 Main St., Leeds, N.Y., (518) 943-4461; and Revelations Design Studio, 115 Packetts Landing, Fairport, N.Y., (585) 223-9485.

“It’s a fun event for a great cause, and everyone leaves the salon feeling and looking fabulous, each in their own unique way,” said Christine Maiwald, executive director of Unify Against Bullying. “We love how each salon is embracing Unify Against Bullying and being creative in their vision for the Cut-a-thon.”

Unify Against Bullying is a tax-exempt organization whose mission is to end bullying through the celebration of true diversity. The funds raised provide grants for anti-bullying initiatives that benefit youth in schools and communities. Its annual all-inclusive fashion show and Selfie Challenge raise awareness globally of the silence associated with bullying. Through Unify, high-school students are educating younger students by giving presentations focused on what bullying is and how it impacts the person being bullied. To learn more about the organization, visit www.unifyagainstbullying.org.

SPRINGFIELD — The second annual class of Healthcare Heroes will be honored at the Starting Gate at GreatHorse in Hampden on Thursday, Oct. 25 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Healthcare Heroes, a recognition program involving the Western Mass. healthcare sector, was launched last spring by HCN and BusinessWest. The program was created to shed a bright light on the outstanding work being done across the broad spectrum of health and wellness services, and the institutions and people providing that care.

This year’s honorees include Mary Paquette, director of Health Services and nurse practitioner, American International College; Celeste Surreira, assistant director of Nursing, the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke; Peter DePergola II, director of Clinical Ethics, Baystate Health; Dr. Matthew Sadof, pediatrician, Baystate Children’s Hospital; TechSpring; the Consortium and the Opioid Task Force; and Robert Fazzi, founder, Fazzi Associates. The seven winners were profiled in the Sept. 4 issue of BusinessWest and the September issue of HCN, and will be feted at the Oct. 25 gala.

Tickets cost $90, and tables of 10 are available. To order tickets, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or visit www.businesswest.com. Healthcare Heroes sponsors include American International College (presenting sponsor), Baystate Health/Health New England (presenting sponsor), National Grid (partner), and supporting sponsors Renew.Calm, the Elms College MBA program, Bay Path University, and Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health Of New England.

CHICOPEE — The Center for Law & Justice at Elms College will host a lecture by Sarah Stein of the Center for the Resolution of Unresolved Crime on Thursday, Nov. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Alumnae Library Theater.

Stein, a forensic and behavioral analyst who works with law-enforcement agencies as a consultant and investigator on cold cases and death investigations, will give a talk titled “Cold Cases and the Politics of Murder.”

She has been involved in the case of Joanne Ringer of Clarksburg, who had been missing for over a year before her remains were found in Hatfield earlier this year. She also was involved in the case of Molly Bish, who had been missing for three years before her remains were found in Hampden County in 2003.

Stein earned her Ph.D. in criminal justice from the University of Southern Mississippi and her master’s degree in forensic science (with a concentration in advanced investigation and a certificate in computer forensics) from the University of New Haven. She also developed her own bachelor’s degree in the victimology of pedophilia (a combination of criminal justice, sociology, and psychology) at American University in Washington, D.C. She has taught at Clayton State University, Western New England University, and Fitchburg State University.

Stein began consulting on cold cases during her time at the University of New Haven, under the direction of the Henry C. Lee Institute. Since that time, she has consulted independently for numerous law-enforcement agencies and families on cold-case homicides, missing-persons cases, and child-abduction homicides. Currently, she provides both training and case-consultation services to law enforcement.

HOLYOKE — The Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation donated $50,000 to Holyoke Community College (HCC) for the benefit of students preparing for careers in the culinary-arts and hospitality industry. 

Bill Wagner, president of the foundation, presented a check for that amount to HCC President Christina Royal and officials from the nonprofit HCC Foundation during a brief ceremony on Oct. 2 at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute. The $50,000 donation will go toward programs, equipment, maintenance, instruction, and student services at the institute, which opened in January at 164 Race St. in downtown Holyoke. 

“The foundation is pleased to lend its support to HCC’s remarkable new Culinary Arts Institute,” said Wagner, an HCC alumnus from the class of 1971. “It’s quite an impressive facility unique in Western Massachusetts that we can be proud of for generations to come. With HCC’s expansion into this state-of-the-art facility, our region’s growing hospitality industry will directly benefit from well-trained chefs and hospitality staff. HCC has a rich history of providing quality education in Western Mass., and we couldn’t be prouder to stand behind them.”

During the ceremony, a plaque recognizing the donation was unveiled outside the institute’s general purpose lab, which is the teaching kitchen used for HCC’s non-credit culinary and workforce-training programs. 

“We are honored to name a space here in recognition of the generosity of the Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation,” said Amanda Sbriscia, HCC’s vice president of Institutional Advancement. “This investment will allow us to continue to enhance our culinary-arts training and professional development for the benefit of our students and the community. We are incredibly grateful for this leadership support and especially pleased that it gives us a chance to thank Mr. Wagner, an HCC alumnus, for his continued commitment to our mission.”

SPRINGFIELD — Robinson Donovan, P.C. announced that Jeffrey Trapani, a partner with the firm, has received appointments from the Hampshire County Bar Assoc. and the Supreme Judicial Court, effective Sept. 1.

“We are thrilled that Jeffrey is being recognized with these appointments,” said Partner James Martin. “Jeff strives to provide the very best advocacy for his clients, and both of these committees will benefit from having his legal mind involved in the decision-making process.”

Trapani was unanimously approved to fill the upcoming vacancy on the Joint Bar Committee on Judicial Appointments for the Hampshire County Bar Assoc. The Joint Bar Committee is an independent, non-partisan entity comprised of two dozen attorneys from across Massachusetts, including three members each of the Massachusetts and Boston bar associations.

The Supreme Judicial Court appointed Trapani to the Standing Advisory Committee on the Rules of Civil and Appellate Procedure. As part of the committee, he will assist in reviewing and recommending amendments to the Massachusetts Rules of Civil Procedure and the Massachusetts Rules of Appellate Procedure.

Trapani concentrates his practice in civil litigation, including insurance defense, employment law, municipal liability, business litigation, and professional malpractice. He also represents many landlords in summary process action and housing-discrimination claims, and insurance companies in unfair-settlement claims and coverage issues.

In addition to trial work, Trapani also represents clients in mediations and arbitrations. He is a member of the Defense Research Institute and the Massachusetts Defense Lawyer Assoc. and holds associations with the Massachusetts, Hampden County, Hampshire County, and federal bar associations. Since 2008, he has been selected to the Super Lawyers Rising Stars list.

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Due to high demand, DiGrigoli School of Cosmetology on Riverdale Street in West Springfield will begin offering an evening program starting Tuesday, Nov. 6.

“We’re very excited to add this night program to our school,” said owner Paul DiGrigoli. “It’s great for those who have always wanted to pursue cosmetology but couldn’t due to conflicting work schedules or childcare. Just because life gets busy doesn’t mean you should throw away your dreams. Now is the perfect time to join the DiGrigoli School family.”

The program will run Monday to Thursday from 5:30 to 9:45 p.m. and will be available to all new and current students. Those interested in either the day or evening programs should contact admissions at (413) 827-0037, ext. 28 or visit www.digrigoli.com/school for more information. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

EASTHAMPTON — Girls on the Run of Western Massachusetts will host a FUNdraiser at Mill 180 Park in Easthampton this Saturday, Oct. 6, from 7 to 10 p.m. Attendees will enjoy a fun night with appetizers, silent auction, and cash bar while supporting the work of Girls on the Run.

The organization’s mission is to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident using a fun, experience-based curriculum which creatively integrates running. All proceeds from Saturday’s go toward scholarships so more girls can participate in this life-changing program. Last year, Girls on the Run served 1,200 girls in Western Mass., and 54% received financial assistance. This year, the organization expects to serve more than 1,500 girls. 

Tickets cost $30 per person or $50 for two. Tickets can be purchased at www.girlsontherunwesternma.org or at the door.

AMHERST — On Tuesday, Oct. 16, at the Delaney House in Holyoke, the Family Business Center of Pioneer Valley will host Sheila Heen, best-selling author of Thanks for the Feedback: The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well. Heen teaches at Harvard Law School and in the Harvard Negotiation Project. Also, Ross Giombetti of Giombetti Associates will explain why and how companies would benefit from a “users manual of YOU.”

The Family Business Center will also present a morning event on Friday, Oct. 19 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the MassMutual Learning and Conference Center in Chicopee. This spirited conversation between Delcie Bean of Paragus IT and Charlie Epstein of Epstein Financial Services will delve into how future technologies will be disruptive in a way that cannot be ignored, now or then.

To register for either event, contact Ira Bryck at [email protected] or (413) 835-0810.

SPRINGFIELD — NAI Plotkin, an office of NAI Global, a leading commercial real-estate brokerage firm, announced it has sold 1492 Boston Road, which consists of a 9,697-square-foot commercial building, formerly the Smokey Bones Restaurant, and an adjacent 20,585-square-foot commercial building, currently occupied by Namco.

The asset was sold to Restoration Worship Center/Centro de Restauracion Adoracion for $2.2 million and includes a total of 6.1 acres of land next to the Lowe’s shopping plaza. Bill Low and Stephen Picard teamed up to sell the property, which was on the market for years with several real-estate companies.

“We are excited to have had the opportunity to get the former Smokey Bones property sold within a six-month timeframe to Restoration Worship Center, Low said. “The Boston Road area is a prime retail location and has seen quite a lot of changes over the last decade. While the retail market in this area has changed with the closing of stores like Macy’s and now Sears, we still have had a successful track record of sales and lease transaction in this area. With the opening of the new MGM Springfield, we have seen a spike of energy in commercial real estate, and we are excited to be part of bringing new business and opportunities into the Western Massachusetts market.”

CHICOPEE — Elms College now offers two new educational grants to help incoming first-year students offset tuition costs. The Urban Education Grant and the Catholic Education Grant each award new students $2,000.

Students attending Springfield, Chicopee, or Holyoke public schools in Massachusetts are eligible for the Urban Education Grant, which is open to students attending a Catholic high school anywhere in the country. To qualify for either grant, students must be currently enrolled at their respective public or Catholic schools at the time of their application to Elms College. All qualifying students will be automatically considered for these grants when applying to Elms; no separate application is needed for this funding.

These new awards can be paired with other merit-based scholarships and financial aid offered by the college, but not with each other.

“Elms is proud to expand its financial-aid options for students from local urban school districts and Catholic high schools nationwide,” said Walter Breau, vice president for Academic Affairs. “These grants show our continuing commitment to make an Elms education accessible and affordable to students.”

SPRINGFIELD — The second annual class of Healthcare Heroes will be honored at the Starting Gate at GreatHorse in Hampden on Thursday, Oct. 25 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Healthcare Heroes, a recognition program involving the Western Mass. healthcare sector, was launched last spring by HCN and BusinessWest. The program was created to shed a bright light on the outstanding work being done across the broad spectrum of health and wellness services, and the institutions and people providing that care.

This year’s honorees include Mary Paquette, director of Health Services and nurse practitioner, American International College; Celeste Surreira, assistant director of Nursing, the Soldiers’ Home in Holyoke; Peter DePergola II, director of Clinical Ethics, Baystate Health; Dr. Matthew Sadof, pediatrician, Baystate Children’s Hospital; TechSpring; the Consortium and the Opioid Task Force; and Robert Fazzi, founder, Fazzi Associates. The seven winners were profiled in the Sept. 4 issue of BusinessWest and the September issue of HCN, and will be feted at the Oct. 25 gala.

Tickets cost $90, and tables of 10 are available. To order tickets, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or visit www.businesswest.com. Healthcare Heroes sponsors include American International College (presenting sponsor), Baystate Health/Health New England (presenting sponsor), National Grid (partner), and supporting sponsors Renew.Calm, the Elms College MBA program, Bay Path University, and Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health Of New England.

HOLYOKE — Rock Paper City, a new nonprofit organization in Holyoke, will host Children’s Business Fair, an educational and fun event, on Saturday, Oct. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. at Heritage State Park, 221 Appleton St., Holyoke. The event is part of Celebrate Holyoke, which runs from Friday through Sunday at Heritage State Park.

“The Children’s Business Fair will consist of several kid-run pop-up shops,” according to Lhea Destromp, founder of Rock Paper City. “The event is designed to teach kids about being an entrepreneur, including having them plan how to pay back their parents who helped them purchase supplies and register for the event. It’s a real-world introduction for kids to the risks and rewards of running a business, set in a fun and supportive environment that will get them excited about being in business for themselves.”

Rock Paper City is planning additional Children’s Business Fair events, with the next one planned for December at Mill 180 Park in Easthampton.

For additional information, including how to register for a Children’s Business Fair, call Lhea Destromp at (413) 277-5844 or visit www.childrensbusinessfair.org/pioneervalley.

TURNERS FALLS — Mayhew Steel Products (Mayhew Tools) has selected Lam Nguyen to fill the role of plant manager at the company’s Basque Plastics Division in Westminster. With more than a decade of manufacturing leadership and operational expertise, Nguyen will oversee the plant’s daily operations while simultaneously improving overall operational efficiency and productivity.

Nguyen, whom will report to Mayhew Tools President John Lawless, has a proven track record for implementing lean operational techniques that result in significant cost savings while increasing yield and quality. His managerial responsibilities will include, but not be limited to: production, workflow, automation, quality control assurance, purchasing, raw materials management, assembly, maintenance, and strategic planning.

“We are thrilled to welcome Lam to our team,” said John Lawless, president of Mayhew Tools. “His field-proven success, lean operational practices, and leadership expertise will play a pivotal role in ensuring our Basque Plastics Division runs smoothly and efficiently.”

Before joining Mayhew Tools, Nguyen spent seven years as vice president of Manufacturing for Advanced Cable Ties Inc. Prior to that, he was plant manager and general foreman for same Gardner-based company, spending more than 18 years there overall. Nguyen holds an associate degree in business management from Quinsigamond Community College and boasts several certifications, including Six Sigma, CSP600 Lean Manufacturing, JIT, Industrial Electric, Project Management, and Scientific Injection Molding, to name a few.

“I am very excited to be joining the Mayhew Tools team,” Nguyen said. “I know quality and craftmanship are synonymous with the Mayhew brand, and I look forward to ensuring those characteristics are upheld throughout the plastics-manufacturing operations and a valuable part of our team’s culture.”

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank announced the promotion of Deanna Markham to first vice president, Retail Distribution manager. In her new position, she will maintain a strong leadership presence and community involvement as she remains local to the Berkshires, working from the company’s Pittsfield office. 

Markham has held many positions throughout the company since her start with Berkshire Bank in 2006 as a branch manager in Lee. In her 12 years at the bank, she has advanced in the company, including promotions to AVP branch manager; vice president, regional manager in Berkshire County; and, most recently, vice president, Sales and Delivery in 2017.

“Deanna has been instrumental in leading and executing sales, incentive, and service initiatives that have supported the success of the bank’s retail banking division,” said Heather Lashway, senior vice president at Berkshire Bank. “In 2018, Deanna has taken on high-level projects and has been an integral part in developing and building out our relationship-management approach.”

In 2016, Markham graduated from the American Bankers Assoc. Stonier Graduate School of Banking and is a Wharton Leadership Certificate recipient. She attended Marist College, where she received a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in fashion merchandising. Committed to giving back to her community, Markham is a Porchlight VNA and Homecare finance committee member and active in the Berkshire Bank employee volunteer program.

SPRINGFIELD — The management of Big Y Foods Inc. announced three new appointments at area Big Y World Class Markets. Samarra DeJesus was named bakery sales manager in Southwick, Trista Sabin was named deli sales manager in Lee, and Thomas Christensen Jr. was named meat/seafood sales manager in Rocky Hill, Conn.

“At Big Y, we are committed to providing the tools and training necessary to support our employees in their development,” said Michael Galat, vice president, Employee Services. “We look forward to their growth in the pursuit of excellence as they personally develop their own skills in order to take on these new levels of responsibility.”