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BusinessTalk with Meg Talbert, Executive Director, Dakin Humane Society: More Than a Pet Project

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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

With new episodes airing every other Monday, BusinessTalk features in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders who offer thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachusetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running. BusinessTalk is sponsored and presented by Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 249: December 22, 2025

Joe Bednar talks with Meg Talbert, Executive Director, Dakin Humane Society

Meg Talbert says she and her dedicated staff and volunteers at Dakin Humane Society bring a lot of love and joy to their work, even though they’re dealing with animals — and families — facing difficult issues. And while Dakin’s services — from adoption and fostering to medical care and pet loss support groups, and many more — help thousands of people and animals each year, the need has never been greater. On the next episode of BusinessTalk, Meg, Dakin’s executive director, sits down with BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar for a wide-ranging discussion about how Dakin is meeting those evolving needs, how people in the community can support this work, and what’s around the corner as the nonprofit puts together a strategic plan for the future. It’s must listening, so tune into BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest over both audio and video platforms, and sponsored by Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

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Healey-Driscoll Administration Celebrates Five Years of Career Technical Initiative

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Daily News

ANDOVER — This week, the Healey-Driscoll administration celebrated five years of the Career Technical Initiative (CTI), a statewide workforce program that has partnered with 34 vocational technical schools to expand access to high-quality training in the trades, construction, and manufacturing sectors, reaching more than 4,600 unemployed and underemployed adult participants to date.

The CTI grant program partners with career and technical education (CTE) schools to provide adult learners, especially unemployed and underemployed individuals from underserved populations and underrepresented groups, with career training and technical skills to meet the needs of Massachusetts employers. The CTI program continues to serve as a collaborative initiative of the state’s Workforce Skills Cabinet.

“Programs like the Career Technical Initiative create real opportunities for adult learners by pairing practical, hands-on learning with skills employers are looking for in today’s economy,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “By combining hands-on training, outstanding CTE schools, and strong employer partnerships, CTI has helped open doors to high-demand careers in construction, the trades, and manufacturing, setting residents up for success today and for years to come.”

Since its launch, CTI has awarded nearly $70 million in grants to 34 schools statewide. More than 4,600 adult participants have enrolled, adding thousands of skilled workers to the Massachusetts workforce. The program has expanded from 10 vocational technical schools in its first year to 34 schools today. Across the program’s first five years, CTI has achieved an 85% completion rate, with 100% of completers earning an industry-recognized credential.

Since 2023, the Healey-Driscoll administration has awarded $53 million in CTI grants, projected to train more than 6,090 unemployed and underemployed individuals.

“Over the past five years, the CTI program has demonstrated strategic ways to train and prepare untapped talent for current and future workforce needs across Massachusetts,” Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones said. “This program has been an impactful tool to build our workforce and a great example of leveraging existing resources through our vocational technical schools to increase access and opportunities as we strengthen our skilled workforce.”

Added Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler, “as CTI marks five years of impact, it continues to show how our education system can support a strong, job-ready workforce. By opening up career and technical education schools for adult training and aligning programs with industry needs, this initiative is delivering meaningful results for learners, employers, and communities throughout Massachusetts.”

OneHolyoke CDC Hosts 10th Annual Community Dinner Celebration at Kelly School

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — OneHolyoke CDC hosted hundreds of Holyoke residents at its 10th annual Holyoke Community Dinner Celebration on Dec. 13 at Kelly School. This year’s event was the most well-attended to date, with more than 115 volunteers also participating.

OneHolyoke has been hosting its free Community Dinner for the past decade, bringing together hundreds of Holyoke residents. The theme for this year’s Community Dinner was “Polar Express, Journey Through Time,” and more than 450 meals were served to the community. The event also featured a DJ, bingo, fun activities for children including a bounce house, and, fitting with the theme of this year’s event, a train to give children rides. There were also visits from Santa and the Grinch. After the event, four trays of food were brought to the warming shelter and men’s shelter at Providence Ministries.

A committee of Holyoke residents and community organizations worked with OneHolyoke to organize this event, including Holyoke Media, MassHire, Holyoke Public Schools, Enlace de Familias, and the Holyoke Safe Neighborhood Initiative.

The annual Community Dinner was also supported by nearly 30 sponsoring community organizations and businesses, including bankESB, Blossom Flower, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Holyoke Community College, Holyoke Housing Authority, Holyoke Medical Center, Holyoke Public Library, Holyoke Tax Service, Homework House, Hope Worldwide, Lawler Insurance, MassHire, Mass in Motion, Master Heo’s Tae Kwon Do Child Care, Pat Duffy for State Representative, PeoplesBank, River Valley Counseling Center, Rolling J’s, Scouting America, Sublime Systems, and the Verb is Herb.

Holyoke Community College Opens Registration for Spring Non-credit Classes

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) has opened registration for its spring 2026 catalog of non-credit personal enrichment and professional development classes.

The spring calendar begins Jan. 12, with individual classes running on different schedules throughout the semester.

New next semester is a series of classes for seniors focused on basic technology. Each one-hour class is available for $20 and covers a wide range of subjects, including Windows 11, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft PowerPoint, Canva (for graphic design), artificial intelligence, Zoom, smartphone use (Android or iPhone), managing and editing photos, document storage, web browsers, and computer scams.

Other classes for spring include cooking (Caribbean, charcuterie, Puerto Rican, Southern), wine tasting (winter reds, Tuscany, New Zealand, Rose, summer wines), sewing (for beginners), sewing (machine), watercolor painting, acrylic painting, drawing, piano, conversational French, conversational Spanish, music technology, voiceover coaching, financial literacy, retirement planning, K-12 education (professional development), writing and publishing (fiction, nonfiction, screenwriting, short stories, query letters, mysteries, travel, blogs), ChatGPT, how to launch a pet-sitting and dog-walking business, and QuickBooks.

Most classes meet in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on the main HCC campus, 303 Homestead Ave. Cooking and wine tasting classes meet at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St. Some classes meet over Zoom.

To see complete spring course listings and schedules, or to register, visit hcc.edu/bcs. More classes will be added as spring approaches.

North Brookfield Savings Bank Celebrates Successful Food Drive, Toy Drive

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Daily News

NORTH BROOKFIELD — In the spirit of season of giving, North Brookfield Savings Bank (NBSB) announced the success of its annual food and toy drives, made possible by the generosity of its customers, community members, and employees. These initiatives reflect the bank’s ongoing commitment to supporting the communities it serves and making the holidays brighter for those in need.

During the annual food drive, the bank’s communities came together to donate more than 950 non-perishable food items and more than $1,000 in monetary donations to support families in need. These donations have provided crucial assistance to individuals facing food insecurity. To further amplify the impact, NBSB contributed an additional $3,000 in support of the food pantry operations.

NBSB’s annual food drive benefited the following food pantries: East Brookfield Baptist Church Food Pantry, Sharing Cupboard Food Pantry – First Congregational Church, St. Joseph’s Parish Food Pantry, First Congregational Church of North Brookfield, Trinity Episcopal Church – Jubilee Cupboard, St. Francis of Assisi Parish Food Pantry, and Palmer Food Share Inc.

The generosity from the bank’s communities continued through the annual toy drive, as community members, employees, and neighbors stepped up to the plate again to donate more than 430 toys for children in need, alongside more than $1,600 in monetary donations. To extend this support further, NBSB contributed an additional $1,250 to support those who need it the most and bring joy to children in the communities it serves this holiday season.

NBSB’s annual toy drive benefited the following toy organizations: North Brookfield Police Assoc. Toys for Joy Program, East Brookfield Toys for Joy Program, West Brookfield Police Assoc. Holiday Toy Program, Ware Police Department Christmas for Kids Program, Belchertown Firefighters Assoc. Adopt-a-Family Program, and Palmer Lions Club Holiday Toy Program.

“Community is at the heart of everything that we do, and the success of this year’s food and toy drives is a testament to the compassion and generosity of our customers, employees, and community members,” said Audrey Shampine, Marketing manager at North Brookfield Savings Bank. “We are proud to come together to create a positive difference for those in need during this season of giving.”

Basketball Hall of Fame to Host World Basketball Day Youth Clinic

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, in partnership with the NBA, will host a youth basketball clinic in celebration of the third annual World Basketball Day on Sunday, Dec. 21 on Center Court, with a special guest appearance by former NBA Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams.

As part of a series of clinics happening across the country, the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame will welcome 85 students in grades 4-6 from the YMCA of Greater Springfield and Libertas Academy to honor the game’s global legacy and origins. Students will participate in skill training drills and receive a catered lunch, Jr. NBA T-shirts, and a take-home gift. The event is designed to introduce the core values of basketball to young athletes through teamwork, leadership, and inclusion.

This year’s World Basketball Day celebration also coincides with the 175th anniversary of the YMCA, the organization where James Naismith introduced the game of basketball in 1891 as an employee at the third U.S. YMCA International Training School in Springfield. In recognition of this historic connection, the YMCA of USA will present a $2,500 gift to the YMCA of Greater Springfield, acknowledging its longstanding commitment to youth development and its foundational role in the creation of the sport.

“World Basketball Day celebrates the impact of basketball and the game’s ability to unite a global community,” said John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. “This day recognizes the invention of the game in 1891 by Dr. James Naismith at the YMCA International Training Academy here in Springfield. The YMCA’s early stewardship helped turn his modest creation into the worldwide sporting phenomenon we know it as today. We are proud to commemorate this day by honoring the game’s original values and intent while also celebrating its milestones, growth, and continued legacy.”

Established by the United Nations in 2023, World Basketball Day is observed annually on Dec. 21, the date Naismith first introduced basketball. The day celebrates the game’s remarkable ability to bring people together across cultures, countries, and generations as the fastest-growing sport in the world. Through engaging young athletes locally and nationwide, the Basketball Hall of Fame continues its mission to share and highlight basketball’s lasting impact on youth development, teamwork, and global unity.

The Good Dog Spot, Leadfoot Brewing Team Up for Howliday Yappy Hour

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Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Good Dog Spot and Leadfoot Brewing are teaming up to spread holiday cheer with wagging tails and festive fun at this year’s Howliday Yappy Hour on Friday, Dec. 19 from 5 to 7 p.m. The community is invited to celebrate the season, sip local brews, and support pets in need, all in one joyful night.

This event, hosted by Leadfoot Brewing, 95 North Chicopee St., Chicopee, brings together two Chicopee favorites for a shared mission: giving local animal lovers and their pups a fun, festive place to gather and raising funds for the Foundation for TJO Animals. Guests can enjoy a locally crafted brew from Leadfoot while the Good Dog Spot offers a photo with the Grinch for a small donation to support local pets through the Foundation for TJO Animals.

In addition to the Grinch photos, ugly holiday sweaters are encouraged, so attendees are encouraged to bring their cheeriest and quirkiest attire to spread extra festive cheer. Adding to the merriment, live music will be provided by the Brothers by Law Duo.

“We love collaborating with local businesses who share our passion for community,” said Shannon O’Connell, facility manager at the Good Dog Spot in Chicopee. “Leadfoot Brewing is a terrific neighbor and a perfect place to bring everyone together for a night of celebration.”

Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Opens Voting for Winter Window-land Decorating Contest

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Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Downtown Pittsfield Inc. (DPI) announced that voting for its Winter Window-land Decorating Contest will be open through Dec. 27.

First-floor locations in downtown Pittsfield were invited to compete for the title of Best Decorated Windows for the Holidays in this free contest sponsored by RSI Signs and Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Those who signed up as participating locations below will be eligible to be voted upon. No write-ins are allowed.

Click here to vote online. Voters are be able to vote for their top three favorites. Only one ballot will be counted per person.

Participating locations include Berkshire Carousel, 50 Center St.; Berkshire County Arc, 700 North St.; Berkshire Graphics Inc., 239 Wahconah St.; Brothership Building, 141 North St.; Deidre’s Special Day, 2 South St., Suite 100; FaceFrame Collective, 437 North St.; Local Appliance, 419 North St.; Nene’s Deco, 144 South St.; Peace Train Tees, 2 South St., Suite 150; Solarium, 46 West St.; Steven Valenti’s Clothing, 157 North St.; This & That Sports, 128 Fenn St.; and Thistle ‘n Thorn Floral, 393 North St.

RSI Signs is offering a $500 store credit as the prize for the winner of the Best Decorated Windows for the Holidays — think custom A-frame signs, business cards, stickers, vehicle graphics, flyers, posters, and more.

Picture This

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Pictured, from left: Dawn Creighton of Liberty Bank; Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker; Girls Inc. participants; and Payton Reyes, Lakisha Coppedge, and Darryl Bonner of Girls Inc.
Picture This

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

 

Planting Seeds for STEM

Girls Inc. of the Valley received a $10,000 grant from the Liberty Bank Foundation Inc. to support the organization’s Eureka! program, which promotes STEM and college access for girls. Eureka! is a five-year program that immerses middle- and high-school girls in hands-on STEM learning while also fostering personal development, career exploration, and college readiness opportunities. 

Pictured, from left: Dawn Creighton of Liberty Bank; Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker; Girls Inc. participants; and Payton Reyes, Lakisha Coppedge, and Darryl Bonner of Girls Inc.

Pictured, from left: Dawn Creighton of Liberty Bank; Girls Inc. Executive Director Suzanne Parker; Girls Inc. participants; and Payton Reyes, Lakisha Coppedge, and Darryl Bonner of Girls Inc.

 

Toward Healthier Homes

Westfield Bank recently announced a $5,000 donation to Revitalize CDC, a Springfield-based nonprofit that works to stabilize homes and strengthen neighborhoods across Western Mass. The donation will help fuel the organization’s efforts in home repairs, accessibility modifications, and energy efficiency upgrades, moving neighborhoods forward and supporting people who otherwise may not have access to such resources. 

Pictured, from left: Revitalize CDC’s Chelsea McGrath and President and CEO Colleen Shanley-Loveless, Westfield Bank’s Sherleen Crespo, and Revitalize CDC’s Ethel Griffin.

Pictured, from left: Revitalize CDC’s Chelsea McGrath and President and CEO Colleen Shanley-Loveless, Westfield Bank’s Sherleen Crespo, and Revitalize CDC’s Ethel Griffin.

Where’s the Beef?

Every year, the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) board of trustees donates beef purchased at the Big E’s 4-H Beef Sale to organizations that combat food insecurity in Western Mass. On Nov. 20, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, accompanied by West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt and members of the ESE staff, visited the Parish Cupboard, Open Pantry, and Friends of the Homeless to donate the beef. Each food shelter received more than 300 pounds of beef to help those in need in Greater Springfield. 

Pictured, from left: ESE’s Anne-Alise Pietruska, Elena Hovagimian, and Cassidy; Parish Cupboard Executive Director Bob Fastie; Reichelt; Parish Cupboard board member Chip Arnold; and ESE’s Steve Ferraro.

Pictured, from left: ESE’s Anne-Alise Pietruska, Elena Hovagimian, and Cassidy; Parish Cupboard Executive Director Bob Fastie; Reichelt; Parish Cupboard board member Chip Arnold; and ESE’s Steve Ferraro.

People on the Move

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Picture This
Brett Brbovic

Brett Brbovic

MountainOne announced the appointment of Brett Brbovic as senior vice president and chief financial officer of MountainOne Financial, MHC and its subsidiary, MountainOne Bank. Brbovic will join the leadership team operating from the company’s headquarters in North Adams. In his capacity as chief financial officer, Brbovic oversees MountainOne’s financial strategy, operational efficiency, and balance sheet risk management. Reporting directly to President and CEO Robert Fraser, he works closely with other senior leaders to align financial and operational goals with the organization’s strategic vision. Brbovic joins MountainOne with more than 18 years of experience in the financial services industry. A graduate of Western New England University with a master’s degree in accounting, his career spans leadership roles in accounting, financial strategy, and executive management, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief financial officer of Berkshire Bank and its parent company, Berkshire Hills Bancorp. He succeeds Steve Owens, who announced his retirement from MountainOne following a 14-year tenure as chief financial officer, chief operating officer, and chief information officer.

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Michael Deere

Michael Deere

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. announced that attorney Michael Deere has joined the firm as an associate. Deere, who officially began on Sept. 8, will support the firm’s work across estate planning, bankruptcy, and probate litigation, with an anticipated long-term focus in trusts and estates. Deere brings a distinctive professional background shaped by nearly 20 years in academia. Prior to entering the legal field, he served as an associate professor of philosophy at Salem State University, where he spent 18 years teaching, researching, and directing curriculum, including 10 years as director of Bioethics Programming and three years as department chair. His scholarship and presentations have been featured nationally and internationally, including invited talks in Italy, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. During his tenure, Deere taught courses in ethics, existentialism, philosophy of art, logic, writing at all levels, and critical reasoning. He later designed and taught courses in legal reasoning, legal writing, and analytical thinking, experience he now applies directly in his legal practice. A non-traditional law student, Deere attended Boston College Law School, where he earned his juris doctorate in 2025. He was a contributor to the law school’s “Impact” blog and continued to teach full-time during his legal studies. He previously earned a PhD in philosophy from Penn State University, funded by the prestigious Jacob Javits Fellowship, and holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and psychology from Oglethorpe University in Atlanta.

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Country Bank announced the promotions of Ben Leonard, Pat O’Hara, Ryan Nauman, and Sam Pursey. Leonard was promoted to senior vice president, commercial banking executive. He will lead the Western and Eastern Commercial Banking teams, oversee targeted commercial growth strategies, and drive cross-functional sales alignment. With more than 24 years of experience, he previously served as team leader for the Western Region. He held senior leadership roles at Wells Fargo Bank. A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin and Wells Fargo’s Credit Management Training Program, he also serves as vice chair on the board of Revitalize CDC. O’Hara was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking team leader – East Region. He will lead the Worcester-based commercial team, manage a portfolio of business clients, and expand Country Bank’s commercial presence in key regional markets. With more than two decades of experience at Citizens Bank, Santander, and Bank of America, he brings deep market knowledge and strong local business relationships, supported by active involvement with the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Corridor 9/495 Chamber of Commerce. Nauman was promoted to first vice president, Commercial Banking. He has been a key contributor to Country Bank for seven years, building strong relationships and supporting local businesses. With more than 27 years of experience, his deep ties to the Greater Springfield and Connecticut business communities will continue to drive growth and strengthen the bank’s regional presence. Pursey was promoted to vice president, Commercial Banking. A nine-year member of the Country Bank team, he serves businesses in the Worcester market with a consultative, community-centered lending style. His volunteer work, including Be Like Brit in Haiti and numerous hours spent with nonprofit efforts throughout Massachusetts, exemplifies the mank’s mission to make a difference.

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Brian Canina

Brian Canina

At its recent annual meeting, the members of the Connecticut Bankers Assoc. (CBA) unanimously elected the association’s officers and board members for the 2025-26 term, including Brian Canina, president and chief operating officer of PeoplesBank, as a director at-large. Joining PeoplesBank in 2009, Canina has since served in a variety of positions, including controller, executive vice president, chief financial officer, and treasurer before becoming president and COO in 2024. Prior to joining the bank, he served as an audit senior manager at Wolf & Company, P.C. The mutual bank he leads has more than $4 billion in assets and 21 banking centers in both Massachusetts and Connecticut. PeoplesBank is expected to open two additional banking centers in New Britain and Hartford, Conn., as well as an operations center at the Hartford City Place II location, in 2026. Canina is a graduate of Bryant University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, and CIS. He also attended the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking and holds a certificate in executive leadership and strategic thinking issued by the Wharton School.

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Stone & Lime Historic Restoration Services, a landmark restoration specialist, announced it has hired Justin Billings to join its leadership team as vice president of Operations. Billings will oversee historically sensitive and landmark restoration projects across the Stone & Lime portfolio, which includes significant preservation programs among both public and private clients. Billings joins Stone & Lime after two decades in construction management with one of the region’s largest general contractors, managing both new construction and renovation projects. His passion for preservation makes him a natural fit for the Stone & Lime leadership team, and he has overseen notable projects like the restoration of the Trinity College Long Walk, multiple renovation and restoration projects at Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, and repairs and updates to the Travelers Tower, all in Hartford, Conn. In addition to his deep project management experience, Billings is also a LEED-certified professional. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

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Keith Tatlock

Keith Tatlock

Keith Tatlock, CFP of Command Wealth Management, has earned recognition as a 2026 Signature Club qualifier by its financial solutions firm, Cambridge Investment Research Inc. The Signature Club distinction acknowledges financial professionals who demonstrate excellence in serving clients while upholding the independent spirit the defines Cambridge, the firm noted. The 2026 Signature Club conference in Bonita Springs, Fla. brings together qualifiers and Cambridge senior leadership for a multi-day event focused on growth, connection, and shared learning. Featuring networking opportunities, interactive educational sessions, and thought-provoking speakers, the conference offers participants the opportunity to gain fresh insight and deepen their industry expertise, empowering them to continue serving their clients at the highest level.

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James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank, announced the promotion of Michael Harrington to senior vice president and senior lender for the state of Massachusetts. This appointment recognizes his consistent and strong leadership and his impact on the bank’s growth and success. Harrington, who previously served as senior vice president and team leader of Middle Market CRE Lending, has been promoted to senior lender and will be responsible for the bank’s commercial lending activities in the state of Massachusetts, including overseeing the bank’s Massachusetts portfolio and new business development, as well as handling his current duties. With more than 33 years of banking and commercial lending experience, Harrington joined Westfield Bank in 2007. Prior to that, he served as a commercial lender and credit analyst at the former Westbank.

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Following a merger with Cain Hibbard & Meyers on Dec. 1, Bulkley Richardson welcomed seven new attorneys to the firm, including five partners and two counsel. Lucy Prashker, partner, counsels clients on a wide variety of business and intellectual property issues. Much of her practice is devoted to advising clients in the fields of health law, nonprofit law, and general business law, where her clients include artists and writers, manufacturers, emerging technology companies, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare providers. She is also an experienced litigator, handling complex commercial and employment cases in both state and federal courts in Massachusetts and New York. Vicki Donahue, partner, represents businesses and individuals in the purchase and sale of businesses, commercial financing (including tax-exempt bonds and historic tax credit financing), corporate governance, and general business counseling. She has experience in solar projects, representing property owners through drafting and negotiating leases and power purchase agreements for large-scale solar installations. She also has an active residential and commercial real estate practice, including zoning analysis and permitting, environmental law, commercial real estate development, and tax abatements and tax appeals. Dennis LaRochelle, partner, has close to three decades of experience handling complex litigation and has successfully litigated several multi-million-dollar disputes in the Massachusetts federal and state courts, earning a reputation as one of the top trial lawyers in Berkshire County. With proficiency in family law, he regularly represents clients in all aspects of domestic relationships, from divorce and child custody disputes to drafting prenuptial agreements and divorce settlements, as well as guardianships to adoptions, resolving disputes creatively and effectively. Jennifer Carpenter, partner, is an accomplished litigator, responsible for cases in both state and federal courts. She has extensive experience representing hospitals, long-term care and residential treatment facilities, and families as they navigate the nuanced and often complex guardianship process. Jeff O’Connor, partner, is a seasoned litigator, trial lawyer, and strategic counselor. For more than 15 years, he has guided medical and legal professionals, businesses, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations through complex civil litigation, agency proceedings, risk management challenges, and regulatory minefields. Diane DeGiacomo, counsel, is an experienced trial and domestic relations lawyer. She has defended businesses in employment discrimination complaints statewide before the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination and the Equal Employment Opportunities Commission, and has tried civil cases in federal court, superior court, and probate court regularly. Susan Herman, counsel, has more than 40 years of trial and appellate experience in both the public and private sectors. She spent much of her career with the Maine Office of the Attorney General, where she advised state agencies and represented the state of Maine in state and federal court on a variety of civil matters. In 2015, she was named division chief for the Civil Litigation Division of the Maine Attorney General’s Office, handling constitutional challenges to state laws and rules, civil rights cases, tort claims, civil appeals, amicus, and multi-state litigation. In 2019, the attorney general named Herman chief deputy for the office, where she worked closely with the attorney general on high-priority and sensitive matters relating to client state agencies, the Governor’s Office, the Legislature, and members of the public. Four years later, she was nominated by Maine’s governor to serve as a member of Maine’s Civil Service Appeals Board, which was confirmed by the Maine Senate, and the governor appointed her chair of the board. In 2024, she was reappointed and confirmed for an additional four-year term.

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Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced the promotion of eight team members to new leadership roles within its branch network. They include Diane Afonso, assistant vice president, area manager; Zaneta Grasakis, assistant vice president, area manager; Ela Vickers, branch manager II and IRA manager; Betzaida Gonzalez, branch manager, Front Street, Chicopee; Carmen Santos, branch manager, Wilbraham; Nathan O’Connor, branch manager, East Longmeadow; Diany Morales, assistant branch manager, Wilbraham; and Elizabeth Henke, assistant branch manager, Hampden. These leaders bring decades of combined experience in retail banking, member service, operations, and community engagement.

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Tim Grader

Tim Grader

Colleen Kucinski

Colleen Kucinski

Hannah Rechtschaffen

Hannah Rechtschaffen

Mary Siano

Mary Siano

At its November meeting, the Greenfield Community College (GCC) Foundation welcomed four new members to its board: Tim Grader, Colleen Kucinski, Hannah Rechtschaffen, and Mary Siano. Grader, a real estate investor, broker, and property manager, is the owner of Cohn & Co. Real Estate and Stillwater Real Estate Services. A GCC alumnus, he brings a deep commitment to regional revitalization, historic preservation, and lifelong learning. Kucinski, executive director of the Literacy Project, has spent more than 25 years advancing educational access through leadership in higher education and philanthropy, including 18 years at GCC and eight years at the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. Rechtschaffen, executive director of the Greenfield Business Assoc., is a leader in creative placemaking and community development. Her background includes strategic roles with W.D. Cowls and the Lindy Institute for Urban Innovation, where she built partnerships that drive local economic growth. Siano, a social worker and civic leader, has dedicated her career to community service and advocacy. She has served on local boards and committees including the Greenfield School Committee, the Community Health Center of Franklin County, the Literacy Project, and the League of Women Voters of the Greenfield Area. A longtime GCC volunteer and annual campaign co-chair, she continues to strengthen community engagement across Franklin County. Departing members Deb Berryere (president), Ann Barker (vice president), Jacqui Zuzgo, and Savitri Rambissoon were recognized for their commitment to the college and the foundation’s mission of supporting student success. Succeeding them in leadership, the board elected James Fitzgerald as president and Jane Wolfe as vice president. Fitzgerald and Wolfe both joined the foundation board in 2023 and bring experience in business and community service.

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Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Professor of Business Anthony Rondinelli has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators for his dedication, achievements, and leadership in accounting and education. Rondinelli graduated from STCC with an associate degree in business administration and finance and was recognized in the National Dean’s List for academic achievement. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree from Westfield State University and two master’s degrees in management and accountancy from Western New England University, graduating summa cum laude. He built a wide-ranging career in business and finance, serving as a district sales and marketing manager for Stop & Shop supermarkets and later holding senior consulting and accounting positions with MassMutual Financial Group, Lincoln Financial Group, GE Financial Assurance, and Corbin & Tapases, P.C. In 2013, after several years teaching part-time at local colleges, Rondinelli returned to STCC as an adjunct professor and then became a full-time faculty member in 2014. Today, he is a full professor of Business, teaching a range of courses in accounting, personal income tax, finance, marketing, and management, and advising students in STCC’s Business Club. He is also president of Anthony Rondinelli Tax and Accounting Services LLC, which provides tax and accounting support for individuals, small businesses, and nonprofits; contributes regularly to online personal finance platforms; and serves on numerous campus committees and the STCC Foundation board.

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MassMutual announced it has elected Michael Rollings to the company’s board of directors. Rollings most recently served as chief financial officer and managing director of Finance at the Vanguard Group, a position he held from 2016 until his retirement this past June. In that role, he led financial strategy and planning for the global asset investment manager with more than $11 trillion in assets under management and oversaw more than 1,800 people across corporate financial functions, including treasury, financial planning and analysis, accounting operations, and fund financial services. During his tenure, he served as a strategic advisor to Vanguard’s CEO, board of directors, and other key stakeholders, while also leading a transformation of the company’s corporate and fund financial operations to best support investment and shareholder return. Prior to his time at Vanguard, Rollings held leadership roles at MassMutual for 15 years, including leading the company’s Capital Markets and Treasury Operations team and serving as chief financial officer from 2006 to 2016. He has served on several boards throughout his career, including the Financial Accounting Foundation, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Springfield Museums, and the Georgetown University board of regents. He earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Georgetown University and a master’s degree in business from Northwestern University’s J.L. Kellogg School of Management.

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Courtney Robbins

Courtney Robbins

Community Bank welcomed Courtney Robbins as branch and Community Development manager of the bank’s newest Massachusetts location at 1387 Boston Road in Springfield. She will lead strategies to support branch growth and expand business opportunities, while also handling day-to-day operations and guiding staff hiring and training. She will play a key role in fostering relationships with customers and community partners; delivering comprehensive personal, business, and government banking products and solutions; and supporting the bank’s continued expansion throughout Western Mass. Before joining Community Bank, she was a leader at several other financial institutions, overseeing daily operations, managing staff and business development, and maintaining branch profitability. Robbins is active in the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, Randall’s Ludlow Boys and Girls Club, Rick’s Place, and Dress for Success. She earned her degree in accounting from Framingham State University.

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Corrine (Corky) Sysun

Corrine (Corky) Sysun

UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced that Corrine (Corky) Sysun has joined the credit union as a senior business relationship manager on the Commercial Services team. Sysun brings more than 20 years of experience in business banking and commercial lending, most recently serving as a Business Banking officer at TD Bank. Her expertise includes commercial real estate and commercial and industrial lending. Earlier in her career, she spent more than a decade as a branch manager and Business Development manager. In her new role, Sysun will work closely with members and community partners to grow commercial relationships, support lending initiatives, and contribute to UMassFive’s strategic goals.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

MountainOne, Mechanics Receive Approvals to Merge

NORTH ADAMS, TAUNTON — MountainOne Financial, MHC, the mutual holding company parent of MountainOne Bank, and Mechanics Bancorp, MHC, the mutual holding company parent of Mechanics Cooperative Bank, announced that all regulatory approvals required to complete the merger of the two mutual holding companies have been received. The merger transaction is scheduled to take place on Jan. 1, at which time the newly combined mutual holding company will operate under the name MountainOne Financial, MHC, and will have approximately $1.9 billion in assets. MountainOne Bank and Mechanics Cooperative Bank will continue to operate as two separate, independently chartered community banks, and will each retain their existing names, headquarters locations, leadership teams, and boards of directors. Furthermore, customers will not experience any disruption, nor do they need to take any action. Upon completion of the merger, Robert Fraser will serve as chairman, and Joseph Baptista Jr. will be president and CEO, of the combined mutual holding company, MountainOne Financial, MHC. Fraser will continue in his role as president and CEO of MountainOne Bank, and Baptista will also remain as president and CEO of Mechanics Cooperative Bank. There are no staff reductions associated with the merger.

 

BrightBridge, Arrha Credit Union Members Approve Merger

LAWRENCE, SPRINGFIELD — The members of BrightBridge Credit Union and Arrha Credit Union voted in favor of merging the two financial organizations, following separate member votes at each organization’s corporate headquarters. BrightBridge will be the continuing credit union, with Arrha changing its name to Arrha Credit Union, a Division of BrightBridge Credit Union. The newly merged credit union will have 23 retail branches, combined assets of nearly $2.4 billion, and approximately 125,000 members. The merger will combine the resources, expertise, and values of two long-standing and like-minded credit unions. The merger is expected to be finalized on Jan. 1, 2026, pending regulatory approval. Built on a shared commitment to outstanding service, competitive financial solutions, and meaningful community engagement, this partnership allows BrightBridge to broaden its reach, now serving members in Massachusetts’ Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties, as well as Hartford and Tolland counties in Connecticut. In 2019, 2020, 2023, and 2025, BrightBridge completed successful mergers with Bridgewater Credit Union, Ocean Spray Employees Federal Credit Union, RTN Federal Credit Union, and Cabot Boston Credit Union, respectively.

 

March for the Food Bank Raises More Than $830,000

CHICOPEE — The 16th annual March for the Food Bank on Nov. 24-25 raised more than $830,000 after two days and more than 43 miles on foot. The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts blew past its ambitious $650,000 goal this year. Because every dollar helps create the equivalent of two nutritious meals, this year’s March will provide more than 1.5 million meals to families, elders, and children in all four counties. This year’s march was full of milestones. It welcomed the largest group of marchers in event history, achieved the highest fundraising total ever, and launched the region’s first Berkshire Mini-March in Pittsfield, drawing crowds, energy, and enthusiasm. With momentum at its peak, the Food Bank has raised its march goal to $1 million and will continue accepting donations through Dec. 31. Donations to the March for the Food Bank can be made by visiting www.marchforthefoodbank.org.

 

Mayflower Marathon Raises $260,000 for Open Pantry

SPRINGFIELD — Rock 102 (WAQY-FM) conducted its 32nd annual Mayflower Marathon food drive at MGM Springfield in the three days leading up to Thanksgiving, raising $260,000 in food and cash donations — a new record for the long-running tradition. Morning hosts Bax & Nagle powered through 52 hours of broadcasting, rallying listeners to donate non-perishable food items to benefit Open Pantry Community Services of Springfield. With food insecurity affecting more than 50% of households across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, the need for support has never been greater. The Mayflower Marathon’s success is fueled by unwavering community involvement. Local residents and businesses stepped up in a big way, including major partners like the Springfield Thunderbirds, Capitol Relocation and Logistics, Xfinity, Camping World of West Hatfield, Arment Trucking, and many more. Thanks to their efforts, four tractor trailers were filled with food, helping Open Pantry meet the growing demand for assistance. This year’s drive was dedicated to former Rock 102 morning co-host and Massachusetts Broadcasters Hall of Famer John O’Brien, who passed away recently after a courageous 14-year battle with cancer. He helped launch this event 32 years ago, and it will continue for many years to come in his honor.

 

D.A. Sullivan & Sons Inc. Named a Top Place to Work

NORTHAMPTON — D.A. Sullivan & Sons Inc. (DAS) has been named one of the 2025 Top Places to Work in Massachusetts in the 18th annual employee-based survey from the Boston Globe. The Top Places to Work issue is online at globe.com/topplaces and will appear in Globe Magazine on Sunday, Dec. 7. Top Places to Work celebrates the most admired workplaces in the state voted on by the people who know them best — their employees. The survey measures employee opinions about their company’s direction, execution, connection, management, work, pay, benefits, and engagement. DAS is recognized in the Small Business category with 50 to 99 employees.

 

Greylock Selects Berkshire County Kids’ Place for $20,000 Award

PITTSFIELD — On Nov. 5, Lori Goodell, senior vice president of Greylock Insurance Agency (GIA), presented a $20,000 check to Berkshire County Kids’ Place at the 20th anniversary celebration of Arbella Insurance Foundation, which funded the grant. GIA, which partners with Arbella Insurance, was one of 20 nonprofit organizations across New England invited to apply for the grant, and one of 10 to be selected to give away $20,000 to a nonprofit of their choice. Berkshire County Kids’ Place provides a safe, home-like environment for victims of child abuse and their non-offending family members. In 2025, regional nonprofits have faced heightened financial pressure, with many experiencing budget shortfalls and rising demand for services. The Arbella Insurance Foundation’s 20th anniversary initiative provides both funding and awareness to help address these challenges and celebrate organizations that are committed to making a lasting difference.

 

WNE, Bay Path Launch Articulation Agreement

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University (WNE) and Bay Path University have signed a new articulation agreement that creates a streamlined academic pathway between two rapidly expanding fields, genetic counseling and pharmacogenomics. The partnership is designed to support the significant regional workforce demand for professionals trained in precision medicine, genomic testing, and personalized therapeutics. Under the agreement, WNE will reserve at least two seats annually in its master of science in pharmacogenomics (MSPGx) program for qualified graduates of Bay Path’s master of science in genetic counseling (MSGC) program. Conversely, Bay Path will reserve at least five interview seats in its MSGC program annually for WNE MSPGx graduates. Students accepted through this pathway will also receive six transfer credits toward the MSPGx or MSGC degree, which may reduce the cost of their graduate studies. To qualify for the reserved seats and transfer credits, interested students must meet established academic standards, including maintaining at least a 3.5 GPA and completing designated prerequisite coursework. Applications for the pathway must be submitted by April 1 each year. The agreement also outlines joint recruitment and advising initiatives, including co-hosted virtual and in-person information sessions to ensure students understand the academic requirements and career opportunities in both fields.

 

Rocky’s Ace Hardware Customers Round Up for Animal Shelters

SPRINGFIELD — Rocky’s Ace Hardware announced the results of its annual Round Up for Pets fundraiser. Customers at participating Rocky’s stores in Western Mass. helped raise a total of $7,663.06, while stores nationwide collected a combined $45,646.45. These donations will go directly to care for rescued and surrendered animals, ensuring their needs are met as they wait for their forever homes. Participating Rocky’s locations included the stores on Island Pond Road and Liberty Street in Springfield and the stores in Agawam, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, Palmer, South Hadley, and Westfield. Local shelters benefiting from the year’s round-up include the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center and Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society in Springfield, Second Chance Animal Services in East Brookfield, and Westfield Animal Control and Shelter.

 

MountainOne Donates $25,000 for Food, Fuel Assistance

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced it will donate $25,000 to local community organizations across the Berkshire County and South Shore regions to assist with combating food insecurity and providing winter fuel assistance. This financial commitment arrives at a moment when many local partners are seeing record need. Rising fuel costs have pushed many households to the edge, and increasing demand at food pantries has led to strained resources. MountainOne is stepping in with funding that will help keep homes warm and ensure families have access to healthy meals. In Berkshire County, MountainOne will contribute $10,000 to local food pantries, including Thanksgiving Angels Inc., Berkshire Grown Inc., Berkshire Food Project Inc., Al Nelson Food Pantry, and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. In the South Shore region, MountainOne will contribute $5,000 to local food pantries, including End Hunger New England, which provides meal packages for South Shore Food Pantries, as well as the Rockland Emergency Food Pantry, Interfaith Social Services, and the Scituate Food Pantry. Lastly, MountainOne will direct its $10,000 donation for fuel assistance to the Pittsfield Area Council of Congregations (PACC) Hearth and Home Fuel Fund.

 

Bulkley Richardson Raises $11,000 to Battle Food Insecurity

SPRINGFIELD — Bulkley Richardson holds an annual campaign to raise funds for the United Way of Pioneer Valley through personal contributions from attorneys and staff. The campaign has become a tradition at the firm for many reasons, making an impact in the local community. This year’s campaign donations will go directly to battling food insecurity. The temporary increases to SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits that were provided during the pandemic have now ended, leaving families across the Pioneer Valley with a significant reduction in their monthly food assistance at a time when grocery prices remain high. This means more households are struggling to keep food on the table and are turning to community resources for help.

 

Mama G’s Halal Platters, Frozen D Lite Open at Mall

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mall recently welcomed two new eateries to the center, Mama G’s Halal Platters and Frozen D Lite. Mama G’s Halal Platters is now open on the JCPenney wing of the upper level, next to Pretzelmaker. It offers Middle Eastern flavors like chicken, lamb, shrimp, or falafel rice platters; chapli kabob; Indian dishes like chicken tikka and butter chicken; as well as classic American dishes like burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and chicken tenders. All the food will meet halal dietary standards. Frozen D Lite opened recently on the lower level next to Mystery Bins. The snack shop offers a range of treats, from sweet crepes and waffles with ice cream to smoothies, shakes, and frozen yogurt.

 

Bueno y Sano Celebrates Holyoke Opening with Donation

HOLYOKE — Bueno y Sano marked the grand opening of its eighth location in Holyoke, a milestone event distinguished by a significant act of community support. The new restaurant, notable for being the chain’s first with a female franchise owner, Xiomara Rosa, immediately demonstrated its commitment to the city by making a donation to aid families recently affected by devastating local fires. At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, moved by the recent tragedies that displaced more than 100 residents, Rosa announced a $500 donation to the Enlace de Familias Emergency Fund. Demonstrating a shared commitment to local well-being, Bueno y Sano corporate, represented by founder Bob Lowry, matched the contribution, bringing the total to $1,000 for families in need. This gesture came at a critical time for Holyoke, where two separate fires destroyed approximately 50 apartments, leaving numerous families and their pets without homes or belongings.

 

Daruma Hosts Grand Opening for Japanese BBQ Restaurant

HOLYOKE — Daruma Japanese BBQ celebrated its grand opening with a public ribbon-cutting ceremony on Dec. 5 at 241 Whiting Farms Road, Holyoke. The event marked the official launch of the first Japanese BBQ establishment in Western Mass., introducing a unique dining concept to the region. The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia were in attendance to welcome the new business to the community. Demonstrating a strong commitment to the community, Daruma recently donated $1,000 to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts through the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce’s food drive. Daruma Japanese BBQ offers an interactive dining experience where guests can grill high-quality meats and vegetables at their own tables. In addition to its signature BBQ, the restaurant features a full sushi menu. Guests can enjoy all-you-can-eat sushi with two distinct options: a regular menu including classic favorites and a premium menu offering upgraded selections for a more elevated dining experience. The owners are also in the process of securing a liquor license.

 

Hot Plate Brewing Launches Innovative Loyalty Program

PITTSFIELD — Hot Plate Brewing Co., the award-winning, Latina-owned craft brewery known for its community-driven ethos, announced the launch of the Scrum, a first-of-its-kind loyalty program inspired by Agile software development. Instead of a traditional mug club built around spending, the Scrum invites guests to become ‘community developers’ who earn points through participation, engagement, and showing up. Borrowing from the Agile methodology of collaborative ‘sprints,’ the Scrum transforms everyday taproom experiences into opportunities to contribute to the revitalization of downtown Pittsfield. Members earn points for attending events, checking in during visits, taking part in special releases, supporting local businesses and artists, and helping shape the experience of the taproom. Points can then be redeemed for rewards ranging from exclusive merch to special access to exclusive beers, private events, and more. The Scrum is now open for signups. More information is available at www.hotplatebeer.com/the-scrum.

 

Two Jewish Organizations Fund Emergency Assistance Efforts

PITTSFIELD — Responding to the needs of the nearly 20% of Berkshire neighbors who may face food and fuel insecurity this winter, Jewish Federation of the Berkshires has approved emergency allocations of $11,000 to support food assistance and $10,000 for fuel assistance to help its neighbors across Berkshire County. The Jewish Women’s Foundation of Berkshire County has also approved an emergency allocation of $10,000 to support local food pantries. Together, these allocations represent a $31,000 commitment from the local Berkshire Jewish community to help ensure that neighbors have access to food and warmth during this critical time. Additionally, the Jewish Federation offers affordable kosher meals for older adults (ages 60 and above), which are available for pickup on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at Knesset Israel in Pittsfield through the winter months. Contact the kitchen reservation line at (413) 442-2200 up to 24 hours in advance to reserve a meal for pickup.

 

Rick’s Place Selected for Community Bank Donation

WILBRAHAM — Rick’s Place, a nonprofit providing free grief support programs for children, teens, and their caregivers, was selected for a community donation by Community Bank, N.A. as the bank prepared to open its new branch on Boston Road in Springfield in early December. During the branch’s soft launch period, Community Bank will donate $25 for every new account or loan opened, with a guaranteed minimum gift of $2,500 to Rick’s Place. Community Bank representatives shared that Rick’s Place was chosen because of the organization’s mission and its long-standing service to local families. Rick’s Place offers peer-based grief support groups for youth ages 5-18 and their caregivers, training for schools and community partners, and resources that help families navigate life after a significant loss. All programs for youth and caregivers are provided at no cost.

 

Jessy’s Fight Donates $38,820 to D’Amour Center for Cancer Care

SPRINGFIELD — The Sullivan family presented a donation of $38,820.68 to Baystate Health’s D’Amour Center for Cancer Care in Springfield on Nov. 25. The funds represent the combined proceeds from the sixth annual Jessy’s Fight Golf Tournament, held at the Country Club of Wilbraham, and Cloud 9 Marketing Group’s 10-year anniversary fundraiser. Since 2017, Jessy’s Fight has raised money to support patients and families affected by cancer throughout Western Mass. What began as a personal battle has grown into a major community effort driven by family, friends, local businesses, and supporters across the region. This year’s golf tournament was originally rained out and forced to be rescheduled, yet every golfer, sponsor, and supporter returned on the rain date. The donation was presented by John and Jessica Sullivan, their daughters, Willow and Autumn, and Dylan Pilon of Cloud 9 Marketing Group. Jessy’s Fight hopes to bring joy and reassurance to those who feel lost and alone. Jessy has been cancer-free eight years and counting.

 

Dakin Receives $40,000 Grant from Windsor Charitable Trust

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society has been named a recipient of a 2025 grant in the amount of $40,000 from the Shirley Shattuck Windsor Charitable Trust, whose purpose is to give primarily for the relief of poverty and the prevention of cruelty to animals. The funding will be directed toward the care of feral kittens rescued by Dakin’s Kitten Street Team (KST). The all-volunteer team responds to calls from the public identifying the locations of colonies of feral cats and kittens by going on-site, assessing the cats’ habits and whereabouts, meticulously setting humane traps, and capturing members of each colony, one by one. The cats are brought to Dakin for spay/neuter surgery. Kittens who can be socialized and live as domestic pets are adopted through Dakin. Adult cats, unable to live as domestic pets, are ear-tipped and returned to their colonies using the humane methods of TNR (trap/neuter/return). By curbing the population of feral cats, so many are spared the brutal conditions of outside living: attacks from predators, disease, and harsh elements.

Incorporations

By
Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

The Floor Covering Connector Inc., 441 Silver St., Agawam, MA 01001. Veronica Fiske, same. Floor covering marketing and installation.

ASHFIELD

The Ohketeau Cultural Center Inc., 551 Main St., Ashfield, MA 01330. Larry Spotted Crow Mann, same. Nonprofit educating the general public about the Native American spiritual, cultural, and traditional way of life and bringing together people who are interested in sharing Native American culture, tradition, and indigenous education.

BRIMFIELD

CF Inc., 45 Palmer Road, Brimfield, MA 01010. Caterina Ferrentino, 56 Town Farm Road, Brookfield, MA 01506. Management and operation of an Italian restaurant.

CHICOPEE

Stefanik School PTO Inc., 720 Meadow St., Chicopee, MA 01013. Marisol Nazario, 100 Center St., Chicopee, MA 01013. The Stefanik School PTO promotes the welfare of children at Stefanik School by fostering a cooperative relationship between the school, teachers, parents, and the community, while seeking to enrich the educational experience, encourage parent involvement, and support the school’s objectives through activities, events, and fundraising efforts.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Polite Home Care Inc., 15 Hidden Ponds Dr., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Marlon Polite, 44 Harkness Ave., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Non-medical support to seniors, helping with daily tasks and personal in-home care needs.

FEEDING HILLS

Horeb Health Care Inc., 10 Gary Place, Apt. C, Feeding Hills, MA 01030. David Reji, same. Provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality primary and preventive healthcare services to individuals and families, particularly those who are uninsured, underinsured, or otherwise underserved.

GILL

Beans27 Inc., 180 Main Road, Gill, MA 01354. Michael Leva, same. Restaurant.

HATFIELD
Home Service VA Inc., 2 Prospect St., Hatfield, MA 01038. Melody Edwards, same. Helps business owners hire, train, and manage virtual office assistants.

LENOX

Sugar & Thyme Inc., 65 Church St., Lenox, MA 01240. Tracy Elizabeth Haupt, 33 Anita Dr., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Small retail shop offering a curated selection of local provisions, gourmet foods, specialty gift baskets, and Berkshire-themed gifts and souvenirs.

LUDLOW

Acai Lovers Inc., 8 White St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Cleide Cassemira Dos Santos, 9 Porter Dr., Wilbraham, MA 01095. Milkshakes, smoothies, and ice cream stores.

NORTHAMPTON

Harm Reduction for the Heart Inc., 48 Elm St., Northampton, MA 01060. Aaron Johnson, same. Organization connecting the unhoused and addicts with resources and treatment, while also offering personal development programming.

PALMER

Palmer Diner Inc., 1376 Main St., Palmer, MA 01069. Sorina Sam, 9 Homecrest Ave., Ware, MA 01082. Restaurant business including breakfast and lunch and associated products and services.

PITTSFIELD

Anter Consulting Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Shae Lyon-Fraser, same. Consulting services.

Craniometrix Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Nikhil Patel, same. Dementia support.

Gridcontrolware Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Luis Franco, same. Grid and microgrid load management and control software with dynamic scheduling and remote monitoring.

Lemonde Studio Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Felix Marzell, same. Creation, sale, and rental of art pieces and the operation of an art studio for artistic production and related activities.

Trindade Group Inc., 82 Wendell Ave, Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Leonardo Oliveira, same. General contracting, real estate, property rentals, construction services, and asset holding.

Zul Devinede Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Luz Cancel, same. Event planning services.

SOUTHWICK

Houde Chiropractic Corp., 5 Silvergrass Lane, Southwick, MA 01077. Joseph Houde, same. Chiropractic sports medicine.

SPRINGFIELD

Divalicious Beauty Salon Inc., 2460 Main St., #126, Springfield, MA 01107. Javier Mulero, same. Master hairdresser, coloring, cutting, styling, and shampooing.

Innovations Beyond Inc., 1690 Boston Road, #1064, Springfield, MA 01129. Andrew Mneyergi, same. Internet and technology services.

Ministerio Evangelistico en las Manos del Dios Altisimo Inc., 125 Nursery St., Springfield, MA 01104. David Dominguez, same. Ministry aiming to rescue young people and adults from addiction, as well as helping the incarcerated, the homeless, alcoholics, and other people with needs through preaching and evangelistic work.

Open Guard Outreach Inc., 5 Eton St., Springfield, MA 01108. Zaid Tuffaha, 226 Morton St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Nonprofit gym providing access to affordable fitness classes, strength training, and health education to underserved communities and programs to educate the public about physical health, nutrition, and mental well-being.

Roots and Roofs Inc., 124 Balis St., Springfield, MA 01109. Loleta Collins, same. Nonprofit organization providing access to affordable housing for low- and moderate-income individuals and families; offering education, counseling, and support to first-time homebuyers with the goal of promoting sustainable homeownership; and engaging in community development efforts related to housing equity and economic empowerment.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Korts Inc., 16 Bonair Ave., Apt. 16, West Springfield, MA 01089. Viktor Strok, same. Long-haul trucking.

STR Transport Inc., 16 Bonair Ave., Apt. 16, West Springfield, MA 01089. Hennadii Strok, same. Long-haul trucking.

WILBRAHAM

Spindola Complete Cleaning Care Inc., 3 Weston St., Wilbraham, MA 01095. Lucielle Pires Spindola, same. Corporation engaging in residential and commercial cleaning services, including general cleaning, deep cleaning, move-in/move-out services, and related janitorial activities.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of November 2025.

AMHERST

AD Painting Co.
41B Fearing St.
Dulcineia dos Santos

EasyLife Home Care Services
497 East Pleasant St., Apt. 185
Pamela Batista Gil

Owwtreach
170 East Hadley Road, #52
Fungai Tichawangana

Pioneer Education Strategies LLC
232 Strong St.
Gregory Runyan

Twinkling LLC
28 Amity St., Suite 1F
Huiting Lei

HADLEY

Barstow’s Dairy Store & Bakery
172 Hockanum Road
Steve Barstow

Country Nissan
40 Russell St.
TommyCar Auto Group

Creamy Delights
71 Lawrence Plain Road
Patricia McCarthy

Frosted by KC
1 Jackson Lane
Kimberley Crowell

Hadley Pointe Nursing Rehab & Care
20 North Maple St.
Hadley Center LLC

The Hair Shop of Hadley
8 River Dr.
Anne Trombley Musselwhite

Mitch’s Marina
2 Mitch’s Way
Mervel Broussard

Primo Pizzeria
103 Russell St.
Ismael Alvaradi

HOLYOKE

Beaven Kelly Home
25 Brightside Dr.
Trinity Continuing Care Services Inc.

Chic Salon Beauty Bar Inc.
250 Westfield Road
Jose Ocan

Fem Kollabs
303 High St.
Sandra Vazquez

Helpin Hand Handyman
158 Suffolk St.
Shawn Marsh

Lara Translations
507 Hillside Ave.
Mariana Abert

Lavender Fields Social Club
22 Labrie Lane
Hannah Pryfogle, Marissa Pryfogle

Leary Masonry Solutions
630 Dwight St.
Martin Leary

Luna Designs
402 Hillside Ave.
Laura Pantoja

Pacific Sunwear Stores
50 Holyoke St., Unit B-227
Pacific Sunwear of California

Pioneer Healing Center
98 Lower Westfield Road
Maria Plazas

Print My Case
50 Holyoke St.
Muhammad Nasir

Pupuseria y Antojitos Salvadoreños la Bendicion de Dios
85 Congress Ave.
Elver Acosta

Tiny Light Bakery
72 Pleasant St.
Susan Cornell

NORTHAMPTON

In the Valley Orthodontics
269 Locust St.
Joan Walder

Jaz Tupelo
64 Hatfield St.
Kirstin Dand

Lucy Sunday
1 Short St.
Lucy Sunday

Oriental Bodywork
68 Bradford St., Suite H
Sujun Li

Rebekah Markham LLC
16 Center St., Suite 511
Rebekah Markham LLC

Rigali, Walder & Haughey Orthodontics
269 Locust St.
Joan Walder

Theresa’s Cleaning
54 Deerfield Dr.
Theresa Walsh

Valley Commons
30 Middle St.
Erin DeCou

Wild Chestnut Café
22 Chestnut St.
Melissia LaCharite

Wild Ember Therapy
19 Michelman Ave., Apt. 3
Ethan Sherrerd Wattley

SOUTHWICK

Fern Hallow Holistic Hair
610 College Highway, Suite 15
Justine Bruni

Hair by Bre Couture
320 College Highway, Suite 1
Breanna Page

WESTFIELD

10K Filmmaker
115 Main St.
Grig Cinema LLC

A.J. Virgilio Construction Inc.
86 Medeiros Way
Anthony Virgilio

Burger King
72 Main St.
Quik Foods II Inc.

From Irie to Italy
1029 North Road, Suite 190
Jodi-Ann Lewis

Millie’s Kitchen Pizzeria
1029 North Road
5E & Z LLC

Nails R Us
35 Elm St.
Dung Kim Le

New Leash on Life Dog Grooming
1144 Southampton Road
Rachel Kalis

Pulse AED LLC
30 Court St., #6
Pulse AED LLC

Tobiko
110 Airport Road
Papps Bar & Grill LLC

The TV Doctor
23 Joyce Dr.
David Gomez

Uni Spa LLC
420B Union St.
Uni Spa LLC

WEST SPRINGFIELD

The Dex Collective
420 Amostown Road
The Dex Collective

Doty Riverdale LP
143 Doty Circle
Otter Self Storage

Fantasia Furs
1772 Riverdale St.
KMZ Inc.

Localcraft Concrete Countertops, Microcement and Fine Interior Painting
150 Front St.
Localcraft Concrete Countertops, Microcement and Fine Interior Painting

Lucky Medical Home Care LLC
1111 Elm St.
Lucky Medical Home Care LLC

Max Zeller Furs
1772 Riverdale St.
KMZ Inc.

Revenex RCM
592 Birnie Ave.
Yaashi Global Solution LLC

Talia Wujtewicz Consulting
576 Kings Highway
Talia Wujtewicz Consulting

TJ Maxx
239 Memorial Ave.
The TJX Cos. Inc.

Vital Care of Springfield
144 Doty Circle
Pioneer Valley Infusion LLC

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

Acevedo, Dori
131 Beauregard Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/03/2025

Broggi, William J.
28 Mill St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 10/31/2025

Cannarozzi, Samuel
58 Osceola Dr.
Russell, MA 01071
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/05/2025

Coletti, Alyssa Marie
45 Avon Place
Springfield, MA 01105-1402
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/01/2025

Drissi, Myabdelaziz
84 Clairmont Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/04/2025

Dunlap, Nancy Leigh
Miller, Margaret Susan
31 Golden Dr.
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/13/2025

Facteau, Kathleen E.
7 First St.
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/12/2025

Farnham, Tracy
181 North St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Date: 10/31/2025

Fortune, Amanda M.
101 Jeanne Marie St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/05/2025

Frisino, Melissa J.
a/k/a Mastroianni, Melissa J.
92 Colorado St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/03/2025

Galat, Jennifer Mary
PO Box 722
West Warren, MA 01092
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/14/2025

Jaillet, Timothy P.
Jaillet, Nicole M.
115 South Athol Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/11/2025

Perry, Tina Marie
9 Victorian Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/10/2025

Pietras, Wendy Sue
206 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/10/2025

Placzek, Walter
2 Kaolin Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/04/2025

Robertson, Mark D.
144 City View Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/04/2025

Sadler, Eric Evan
271 Silver St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/14/2025

Silverstrand Fitness 1, LLC
434 North Main St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 11
Date: 11/14/2025

Soto, Rafaela
PO Box 650
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 13
Date: 11/11/2025

Valentin, Hancel R.
45 Itendale St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 10/31/2025

Wakelee, Andrew J.
28 Buckingham St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 11/13/2025

Real Estate Transactions

By
Real Estate

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

FRANKLIN COUNTY

CHARLEMONT

8 North St.
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Hailey D. Klein
Seller: Elliot J. Henry
Date: 11/13/25

CONWAY

Maggie Bean Dr.
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $1,955,287
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

Old Cricket Hill Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $1,955,287
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

DEERFIELD

608 River Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Pamela A. Scott
Seller: Constance P. Krejmas
Date: 11/12/25

GREENFIELD

11 Beech St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Willow R. Parker
Seller: Fred H. Secore
Date: 11/14/25

16 Coolidge Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: William Pielock
Seller: Robert E. Shave
Date: 11/14/25

449 Country Club Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $565,950
Buyer: Servicenet Inc.
Seller: Venture Community Services Inc.
Date: 11/12/25

10 Laurel St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $298,500
Buyer: Christina Tomasik
Seller: Eric C. Brown
Date: 11/10/25

22 Pine St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Michaela R. Elliott
Seller: Joanne C. Disciullo
Date: 11/12/25

250 Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $449,900
Buyer: Ashley Gough
Seller: Benjamin Goody
Date: 11/13/25

10 Power Square
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Benegan 2 LLC
Seller: Helen L. Miller
Date: 11/17/25

44 Wildwood Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Johnson Wilby RET
Seller: Shulenburg INT
Date: 11/14/25

HAWLEY

4 Plainfield Road
Hawley, MA 01339
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Elliot J. Henry
Seller: O’Connor, Jane M., (Estate)
Date: 11/14/25

LEVERETT

45 Cave Hill Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Sean Ezrol
Seller: Ursula P. Humphrey
Date: 11/12/25

MONTAGUE

10 Emond Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Cathleen Eastman
Seller: Stephen G. Kent
Date: 11/14/25

Highland Ave. (off)
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $185,314
Buyer: Lyme Quabbin LLC
Seller: W. D. Cowls Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

6 Warner St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Colby R. Bartos
Seller: Waiter A. Rodovich
Date: 11/14/25

ORANGE

72 East Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Nathan J. Boudreau
Seller: Fred L. Maguire
Date: 11/14/25

75 East Myrtle St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Raymond F. Legrand
Seller: Dennis B. Mitchell
Date: 11/14/25

30 Enfield Dr.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Nathan J. Boudreau
Seller: Fred L. Maguire
Date: 11/14/25

90 Ward Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Colleen Richardson
Seller: M. A. Hastings
Date: 11/10/25

SHELBURNE

50 Old Village Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Timothy J. Murphy
Seller: Tedeso INT
Date: 11/12/25

SUNDERLAND

188 North Main St.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $496,000
Buyer: Lauren Friedman
Seller: Robert A. Petrizzi
Date: 11/12/25

72 Reservation Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Stacy M. Lynch
Seller: Anne M. Paradis
Date: 11/10/25

WHATELY

26 Eastwood Lane
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $840,000
Buyer: Robert D. McWilliams
Seller: Darrell F. Spinner
Date: 11/14/25

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

86 Alhambra Circle North
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Traci L. Welch
Seller: Tara Bates
Date: 11/14/25

25 Clifton Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $292,000
Buyer: Rumen P. Efremov
Seller: Ivette Nunez
Date: 11/17/25

83 Fairview St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $372,500
Buyer: Danielle Bordeau
Seller: Joseph E. Lancour
Date: 11/14/25

8 Independence Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Tia M. Doherty
Seller: William S. Mazurowski
Date: 11/12/25

27 Liswell Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Lyman
Seller: Robert J. Creanza
Date: 11/17/25

49 Logan Place
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Daniel Fenton
Seller: Olga M. Toskaj
Date: 11/14/25

144 Mallard Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $472,000
Buyer: Joseph Goudreau
Seller: Laureen Borgatti
Date: 11/14/25

30 Rising St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $459,900
Buyer: Bakulesh C. Patel
Seller: Patricia Chevalier
Date: 11/13/25

907 Shoemaker Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $469,413
Buyer: Kristie Boutin
Seller: Sandra G. Prive
Date: 11/10/25

114 South West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $577,000
Buyer: Maria Proto
Seller: Timmons Feeding Hills TR
Date: 11/14/25

BLANDFORD

56 Otis Tolland Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $691,000
Buyer: Keith C. Celebrezze
Seller: Lee F. Tavernia
Date: 11/12/25

BRIMFIELD

116 Brookfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Lisa Joubert
Seller: Robert J. Dorazio
Date: 11/17/25

CHICOPEE

126 Casino Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Taylor R. Cable
Seller: Jose R. Rivera
Date: 11/10/25

69 Fedak Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Justin Chartier
Seller: Walter A. Kwarcinski
Date: 11/14/25

199 Meadow St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $324,750
Buyer: Selpan Holdings LLC
Seller: Richard Hartnett
Date: 11/17/25

175 Pendexter Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Ralph L. Santaniello
Seller: Locke Properties LLC
Date: 11/14/25

65 Woodlawn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Jeremy C. Buzzell
Seller: Crystal Conroy
Date: 11/17/25

GRANVILLE

427 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Samantha E. Garvey
Seller: Cynthia T. Levasseur
Date: 11/14/25

EAST LONGMEADOW

32 Dorset St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $289,900
Buyer: Sui P. Chau
Seller: Roland P. Bretta
Date: 11/13/25

44 Edmund St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Maria Liccardi
Seller: Stellar Homes Inc.
Date: 11/12/25

12 Edwill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Dorothy J. Hill
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 11/10/25

11 Park Place
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $362,100
Buyer: Adam Deutsch
Seller: Robert H. Caldwell
Date: 11/14/25

14 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $382,500
Buyer: Kiera Kristoffy
Seller: Beth P. Young
Date: 11/10/25

566 Prospect St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $900,000
Buyer: Daniel P. Garvey
Seller: Kingdom Home LT
Date: 11/14/25

HAMPDEN

50 Martin Farms Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $423,500
Buyer: George Timmons
Seller: Sharon A. Woodin
Date: 11/12/25

HOLYOKE

695 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $386,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Wiater
Seller: Marciline L. Canto-Powers
Date: 11/12/25

63 Jarvis Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Bethany Spencer
Seller: Harriet R. Kulig
Date: 11/14/25

44 Laurel St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $340,500
Buyer: Mallory M. Nurse
Seller: Margaret T. Kraus
Date: 11/10/25

59 Mountain Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Donald A. Smith
Seller: Chicorja, Lauren, (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

97 Mountain Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $345,500
Buyer: Doris Hastings
Seller: James Duffy
Date: 11/13/25

48 North Canal St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Valley Millhouse LLC
Seller: Vickie Nicolau
Date: 11/14/25

491 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $366,000
Buyer: Erica T. Lyles-Flick
Seller: Sean F. Norton
Date: 11/13/25

286 Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Senior Homebuyers LLC
Seller: Amy O. Stewart
Date: 11/13/25

85 Woodland St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Jacqueline A. Almodovar
Seller: Gros III, William E., (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

LONGMEADOW

221 Bel Air Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Simple Times LLC
Seller: Allen G. Zippin
Date: 11/12/25

1617 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Matthew P. Lauro
Seller: Mark W. Baker
Date: 11/14/25

1636 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Colleen Douglas
Seller: Sean M. Brown
Date: 11/12/25

95 Tedford Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $560,500
Buyer: Elio Trolio
Seller: Mark G. Morisi
Date: 11/17/25

LUDLOW

34 Adams St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $323,000
Buyer: Tita I. Elevera
Seller: Susan M. Moffett
Date: 11/14/25

46 Evergreen Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Timothy Menard
Seller: Norman A. Freniere
Date: 11/14/25

37 Franklin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $205,500
Buyer: Rcaf Acquisition TR
Seller: Rose Moura
Date: 11/12/25

69 Willard Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Lisa S. Scungio
Seller: CIG4 LLC
Date: 11/14/25

MONSON

1 Cedar Swamp Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Frank W. Hull
Seller: Handzel, Joseph F., (Estate)
Date: 11/13/25

113 Ely Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $226,000
Buyer: Brian E. Allen
Seller: Eric Allen
Date: 11/10/25

174 Hovey Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $830,000
Buyer: Jillian Rocha
Seller: Robert W. Brown
Date: 11/14/25

PALMER

65 Breckenridge St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $292,000
Buyer: Amanda B. Le
Seller: Brandon T. Stone
Date: 11/14/25

RUSSELL

6 Blandford Stage Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Wayne Precanico
Seller: J. Sperry Realty LLC
Date: 11/12/25

46 Blandford Stage Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Miggy Real Estate LLC
Seller: Jodie J. Paradis
Date: 11/17/25

SPRINGFIELD

91 Arcadia Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Jose Llabaly
Seller: Ninotchka S. Diaz
Date: 11/12/25

33 Ashbrook St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Edward R. Taft
Seller: Richard E. Duffy
Date: 11/14/25

31-33 Balis St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Adebayo A. Oluwadare
Seller: Veteran Stan LLC
Date: 11/10/25

60 Barrison St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Sareen Holdings LLC
Seller: Sheila A. Somers
Date: 11/10/25

92-94 Beaumont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Estanislao Ortiz
Seller: Michael Stewart
Date: 11/12/25

75 Bennington St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Emmanuel A. Diaz
Seller: Corey A. Robinson
Date: 11/14/25

95 Benz St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Taishaly Jimenez
Seller: Vincent Calcasola
Date: 11/14/25

6 Bremen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $171,675
Buyer: Alpine Home Solutions LLC
Seller: Option One Mortgage Loan Trust
Date: 11/12/25

44-46 Calhoun St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Michelle C. Vega
Seller: Amenadiel RT
Date: 11/10/25

96 Campechi St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $319,000
Buyer: Alex D. Paulino
Seller: R. & R. Home Improvement
Date: 11/14/25

392-394 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Ernesto Rodriguez
Seller: Posiadlosc LLC
Date: 11/10/25

73 Catalpa Ter.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Henri Desroches
Seller: Kimberly T. Case
Date: 11/10/25

82-84 Cherrelyn St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Liticia Fokam
Seller: Ruben D. Avendano
Date: 11/12/25

93-95 College St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Dunia Kabangila
Seller: Lucas Feliu
Date: 11/13/25

263 Cooley St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Edgardo Berrios
Seller: Taishaly Jimenez
Date: 11/14/25

19 Dennis St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Scott Doucette
Seller: Patricia S. Cawley
Date: 11/14/25

36 Devens St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Stephanie Winkler
Seller: William T. Kilgore
Date: 11/13/25

32 Dresden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $218,700
Buyer: Freedom Mortgage Corp.
Seller: Makenson Petit-Frere
Date: 11/12/25

260 Dutchess St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Steven Snyder
Seller: Richard G. Haseltine
Date: 11/12/25

58 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Naylor Nation Construction LLC
Seller: Vu N. Ho
Date: 11/12/25

172-174 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: KB RT
Seller: Michael N. Wang
Date: 11/13/25

90 Feltham Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Lamore V. Dixon
Seller: Mydalis Vera
Date: 11/14/25

225 Gillette Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Regina Hudson
Seller: James Francisco
Date: 11/10/25

28 Hartley St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Austin Destromp
Seller: Eugene J. Borowski
Date: 11/14/25

116 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $314,000
Buyer: Felix J. Figueroa
Seller: John Kenney
Date: 11/10/25

325 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $292,500
Buyer: Heather Lavoie
Seller: Round 2 LLC
Date: 11/12/25

3 Hillside Place
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $429,900
Buyer: Shaka I. McPherson
Seller: Naomie C. Delva
Date: 11/13/25

54 Ionia St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Michael M. Dos Reis
Seller: Ionia St. TR
Date: 11/13/25

39 Kings Lane
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $174,900
Buyer: Brickhouse Homes LLC
Seller: Hodges, Donna P., (Estate)
Date: 11/14/25

185 Leyfred Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $244,375
Buyer: Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Seller: Carlos A. Cotto-Lopez
Date: 11/13/25

134 Massasoit St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Eliodoro P. Jose
Seller: Devin A. Vanasse
Date: 11/14/25

21 Meadowlark Lane
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Regina I. Bouchereau
Seller: David A. Merrill
Date: 11/13/25

55 Montrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Anabel C. Rodriguez
Seller: David Givans
Date: 11/17/25

276 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Hector L. Santana
Seller: Jessica Almonte
Date: 11/14/25

79 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Matthew Restrepo
Seller: Tiwari Brothers LLC
Date: 11/17/25

307 Oakland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Alexi Colon
Seller: Latoya Lynch
Date: 11/10/25

908 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Emanuel Rukundo
Seller: Carla M. Machado
Date: 11/14/25

56-58 Phoenix St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Andrenne Oriental
Seller: Home Equity Assets Realty
Date: 11/13/25

19-23 Pine St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $591,000
Buyer: Stephen Gicharu
Seller: Jmx Ii TR
Date: 11/13/25

Pine St. Ct. (SS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $591,000
Buyer: Stephen Gicharu
Seller: Jmx Ii TR
Date: 11/13/25

Quincy St. (NS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Matthew Restrepo
Seller: Tiwari Brothers LLC
Date: 11/17/25

82 Redfern Dr.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Noah Decoteau
Seller: Denise A. Tanguay
Date: 11/14/25

213 Savoy Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Keanna Lumpkin
Seller: Laura J. Phillips
Date: 11/17/25

137 Shawmut St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Thao Thach
Seller: Cornerstone Homebuying LLC
Date: 11/17/25

511 Trafton Road
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Jean D. Baptiste
Seller: Virginia M. White
Date: 11/14/25

211 West Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jose Perez
Seller: Christopher Hernandez
Date: 11/17/25

65 Wilshire Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $337,000
Buyer: Jillian Connors
Seller: Hilario Guerrero
Date: 11/10/25

96 Winding Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Ana M. Rosario-Tejada
Seller: Casini, Tina Marie, (Estate)
Date: 11/12/25

55 Woodrow St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Dorothy J. Austin
Seller: Northern Flooring & Remodeling
Date: 11/14/25

31 Worcester Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $416,000
Buyer: Dnepro Properties LLC
Seller: Rinaldi Pease Holdings LLC
Date: 11/13/25

21 Wrona St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Homestead J&T LLC
Seller: Starzyk, Chester John, (Estate)
Date: 11/13/25

SOUTHWICK

28 Gargon Ter.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $387,900
Buyer: Nathan Towle
Seller: Mark W. Drummond
Date: 11/10/25

355 North Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Loomis Property LLC
Seller: Kierstin Knightly
Date: 11/12/25

8 Powder Mill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Paul Brzoska
Seller: Joseph T. Calabrese
Date: 11/10/25

30 Powder Mill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Tristan Jorud
Seller: Kara K. Jorud
Date: 11/14/25

33 South Longyard Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: James Connor
Seller: Jacob Hervieux
Date: 11/14/25

WEST SPRINGFIELD

145 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $279,500
Buyer: Yanko I. Kaluche
Seller: Francisco Rodriguez
Date: 11/14/25

75 Birnie Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $354,000
Buyer: Christopher Eastman
Seller: James W. Connor
Date: 11/14/25

24 Burford Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Sergio L. Hernandez
Seller: Yakelin Hidalgo
Date: 11/12/25

220 New Bridge St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Moses Thuo
Seller: Oza, Shruti B., (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

49 Vincent Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Diane L. Campbell
Seller: Charlene A. Pope
Date: 11/17/25

WESTFIELD

Buck Pond Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Timothy Briggs
Seller: Gary S. Lipp
Date: 11/14/25

16 Davis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Timothy Briggs
Seller: Gary S. Lipp
Date: 11/14/25

8 Ellis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Leonard Murphy
Seller: Adam Christensen
Date: 11/14/25

37 Gladwin Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Ronald Gibbons
Seller: Aric E. Lunde
Date: 11/17/25

11 Highland Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $462,500
Buyer: Gerald B. Rowinsky
Seller: Wayne Cumberlander
Date: 11/13/25

386 Hillside Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Daniel Shaw
Seller: Theresa E. Lagerberg
Date: 11/12/25

14 Lynnwood Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Robert Davis
Seller: Brittany Deronde
Date: 11/14/25

10 New Broadway
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Benjamin J. Dupelle
Seller: Ceasar R. Vicenty
Date: 11/10/25

77 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Borys Titenko
Seller: Thomas Vuelta
Date: 11/14/25

191 Servistar Industrial Way
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Servistar Industrial Way
Seller: 191 Servistar Realty LLC
Date: 11/17/25

WILBRAHAM

23 Deerfield Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Hannon
Seller: Jennifer A. Knudsen
Date: 11/14/25

17 Hunting Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Alesha L. Przybylek
Seller: Elizabeth Mavis
Date: 11/17/25

30 Red Bridge Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Evergreen Design Build Inc.
Seller: Waclaw J. Bernard IRT
Date: 11/13/25

80 Soule Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Daniel A. Minahan
Seller: Marian Roncarati-Fortin
Date: 11/17/25

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

40 Farmington Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Sefnuon Noeun
Seller: Jorge Gomez
Date: 11/17/25

785 Main St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $735,000
Buyer: Mill River Holdings LLC
Seller: Historic Renovations & Remodelling
Date: 11/12/25

237 Shutesbury Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Ryan Hommel
Seller: Stuart W. Shulman
Date: 11/17/25

BELCHERTOWN

109 Channel Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Isaac L. Cohen TR
Seller: Gary L. Mescon
Date: 11/13/25

260 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: O&E Enterprises LLC
Seller: Janis L. Sugrue
Date: 11/17/25

21 Plaza Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $705,000
Buyer: Brianna Carey
Seller: K. G. Hassenfratz
Date: 11/17/25

167 Warren Wright Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Kws Collective LLC
Seller: James L. Beadle
Date: 11/10/25

42 Wilson Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Taylsha E. Roberson
Seller: Christopher S. Forbes
Date: 11/14/25

EASTHAMPTON

10-22 Nashawannuck St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $5,075,000
Buyer: Easthampton Pleasantview
Seller: Pleasantview Residences LLC
Date: 11/12/25

20 Pomeroy St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hillary J. Tyler
Seller: Lorianne M. Wisner
Date: 11/17/25

GRANBY

300 Amherst St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Daniel Theroux
Seller: John C. Cook
Date: 11/12/25

154 Batchelor St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Taylor S. Koerner
Seller: 2024 Sheehan FT
Date: 11/12/25

HADLEY

4 Indian Pipe Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $885,000
Buyer: Colby Frank
Seller: 4 Indian Pipe Dr. TR
Date: 11/12/25

HATFIELD

84 Chestnut St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $545,730
Buyer: Patricia Chandler
Seller: McCannon, Kathy L., (Estate)
Date: 11/10/25

155 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Sbcraven LLC
Seller: Christine Andrulis
Date: 11/10/25

144 Pantry Road
Hatfield, MA 01066
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Andrew Doig
Seller: Austin Wheeler
Date: 11/14/25

HUNTINGTON

64 Harlow Clark Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jason L. Buvelot
Seller: Michael K. Henderson
Date: 11/10/25

NORTHAMPTON

13-1/2 Finn St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: James Perretta
Seller: Katherine A. Boyer
Date: 11/14/25

140 Florence St.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $427,000
Buyer: Maya Holmes
Seller: Mark Chrabascz
Date: 11/17/25

103 Massasoit St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $875,000
Buyer: John Dew
Seller: Bryann Hobbs
Date: 11/12/25

20 Nagle Court
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $789,900
Buyer: Martha C. Martin LT
Seller: Sovereign Builders Inc.
Date: 11/14/25

80 Pine St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Pamela R. Weissman
Seller: Pariica L. Sipe
Date: 11/12/25

383 Westhampton Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $569,000
Buyer: Nathan D. Ogulewicz
Seller: Gleason Johndrow Properties LLC
Date: 11/14/25

PELHAM

69 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $1,708,500
Buyer: Daniele Orchard
Seller: Isaiah Weiss
Date: 11/17/25

77 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Isaiah Weiss
Seller: Greenstein, George S., (Estate)
Date: 11/17/25

SOUTH HADLEY

25 Noel St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Janice E. Schwartz
Seller: Frank D. Falcetti RET
Date: 11/17/25

47 Pynchon Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Analytical Science Marketing
Seller: Matthew Jeznach
Date: 11/10/25

SOUTHAMPTON

178 County Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Michael Riordan
Seller: Lyle D. Washington
Date: 11/17/25

128 Middle Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $725,000
Buyer: Sherri Morris
Seller: Edmund S. Pooler
Date: 11/14/25

 

WARE

51 Main St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: 51 Main Realty LLC
Seller: Shree Chanermouli Enterprises LLC
Date: 11/14/25

28 Maple Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Corey Lapierre
Seller: Bsm Hsh LLC
Date: 11/14/25

WESTHAMPTON

65 Edwards Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Jeffrey A. Colley
Seller: Janice Scott-Morose LT
Date: 11/14/25

Reservoir Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: C. L. & Clarinda Staples Real Estate
Seller: Kestrel Land Trust Inc.
Date: 11/17/25

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of November 2025.

CHICOPEE

Mental Health Assoc. Inc.
350 Memorial Dr.
$11,500 — Renovate existing room to become a pharmacy

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Congregational Church
116 Main St.
$5,942 — Replace eight windows

HADLEY

333 Russell Street LLC
333 Russell St.
N/A — Replace four storefront windows

LENOX

Lenox Commons Holdings LLC
55 Pittsfield Road
$367,637 — Addition to Antimony Brewery and Kitchen, including concrete foundation and walkways, wood-framed walls and roof, and electrical work

NORTHAMPTON

Carolina Bank
6 Valley View Road
$7,022.16 — Insulation, weatherization, and air sealing

City of Northampton
42 Gothic St.
$2,095 — Install new door and temporary partition wall in office space

City of Northampton
80 Locust St.
$17,000 — Add isolation room to multi-species barn at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School

Florence Casket Co.
16 Bardwell St.
$18,400 — Insulation and weatherization

Hilltown CDC
148 Main St.
$30,719 — Roofing

Lathrop Community Inc.
680 Bridge Road
$3,760 — Emergency replacement of fire alarm panel

Northampton Lodge of Elks
17 Spring St.
$3,200 — Clothing shed in parking lot

Smith College
Berenson Place
$103,250 — Provide new riser with one wet system in mechanical space

Smith College
84 Elm St.
$39,100 — Drew Hall renovation

Trident Realty Corp.
139 King St.
$8,900 — Replace gable end siding

Valley CDC
737 Bridge Road
$657,439 — Install roof-mounted solar system

Windhorse Integrative Mental Health Inc.
26 Day Ave.
$17,750 — Roofing

PITTSFIELD

Berkshire Medical Center Inc.
725 North St.
$4,960 — Modify sprinkler coverage within renovated space

Kalahar Realty LLC
268 Wahconah St.
$68,850 — Roofing

Time Running Out to Nominate a 2026 Difference Maker

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for its 18th annual Difference Makers awards, but time is almost up, as the deadline is Monday, Dec. 22 at 5 p.m. Nominations can be submitted by clicking here.

BusinessWest launched the Difference Makers program in 2009 to recognize and celebrate the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions that are positively impacting the communities of Western Mass. As previous honorees have shown, there are many ways to make a difference within our community, such as working on initiatives aimed at improving quality of life; succeeding in business, public service, or education; inspiring others to get involved; and making an imaginative effort to help solve societal issues.

For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Mission-Rich Academy Launches First Live Intensive in Western Mass.

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Mission-Rich Academy will host its first-ever live intensive, “The Mission-Rich Experience Live,” on Thursday and Friday, Feb. 12-13, 2026, bringing nonprofit leaders and micro-business owners from across the country to Western Mass. for a two-day, high-touch leadership intensive.

Founded by LaTonia Monroe Naylor, a leadership strategist, author, and longtime regional leader, the intensive reflects more than an event — it represents decades of community-centered leadership. Naylor has spent more than 20 years working directly with families and youth, including 15 years supporting nonprofit leaders and institutions, and nearly a decade advocating for education and systems-level change across the region.

Naylor is also the co-founder of a trusted nonprofit organization serving hundreds of families annually since 2018, and her work has been recognized through multiple local and statewide honors, positioning her as a respected voice in sustainable leadership and community impact.

The two-day convening is designed to help mission-driven leaders strengthen funding access, build sustainable systems, and lead with clarity — particularly during a time of uncertainty. Attendance is intentionally limited to preserve depth of training, with participants leaving with proven frameworks, strategic clarity, and a practical plan they can begin implementing immediately.

“This intensive was created because many mission-driven leaders are doing meaningful work but still struggle to sustain it,” Naylor said. “I participated in leadership programs that strengthened my leadership skills, but they didn’t address how to build a business or nonprofit from infancy. I needed guidance on the strategy, structure, and systems required to build something sustainable and culturally aligned. That gap is what this two-day intensive is designed to address.”

In addition to national participation, Mission-Rich Academy will award 10 leadership scholarships to cover full general admission for Springfield-based micro-businesses, supported through a community partnership with the Latino Economic Development Corp. (LEDC).

“At LEDC, we believe strong businesses are built on more than hustle — they’re built on strategy, systems, and a clear mission,” said Andrew Melendez, founder and executive director of LEDC. “We sponsored 10 local business owners because access to high-level leadership development should not be a barrier. Investing in these founders means investing in long-term economic growth for our region.”

Tickets are now live, with general admission and VIP options available. Because space is limited and pre-event bonus trainings are offered on a one-time basis, early registration is encouraged. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are also available for organizations and businesses interested in supporting leadership development and long-term community impact.

For event details and ticket information, visit www.missionrichexperience.com.

CET Receives $375,000 Grant to Expand Massachusetts’ Clean Energy Workforce

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — CET announced receipt of a $375,000 investment to grow Massachusetts’ clean energy workforce. The funding, a grant from E4TheFuture, will support a workforce development program that provides comprehensive training, mentorship, and career pathways for individuals entering the building energy efficiency and decarbonization sector.

The program will pursue the U.S. Department of Labor’s Registered Apprenticeship Program for Energy Auditors, positioning participants for nationally recognized credentials and broader career mobility.

The year-long, full-time paid positions will combine classroom learning with hands-on field experience, equipping participants with the technical expertise, industry certifications, and real-world skills needed to launch long-term careers. Graduates will be offered full-time positions at CET, advancing its mission to deliver just and resilient climate solutions.

“This partnership is about more than filling jobs — it’s about building a strong, inclusive workforce ready to take on the climate crisis,” said Ashley Muspratt, president and CEO of CET. “Thanks to E4TheFuture’s investment, we can train and hire talented individuals who may not otherwise have access to this career pathway, ensuring that all communities benefit from the clean energy transition.”

Over the next three years, CET will recruit approximately 10 participants, with a focus on candidates from underrepresented and environmental justice communities. Program graduates will help homes and businesses reduce energy use, lower costs, and improve health, safety, and resilience while contributing to the Commonwealth’s decarbonization goals.

“We are proud to support CET’s collaborative workforce development efforts, which will expand opportunity while accelerating Massachusetts’ progress toward a clean energy future,” said Pat Stanton, executive director of E4TheFuture. “Developing skilled professionals in this field is essential to meeting both climate and equity goals. CET stepping up as an inaugural employer for the Registered Apprenticeship Program in Massachusetts demonstrates their exemplary leadership.”

This investment is part of E4TheFuture’s final philanthropic distribution as the organization prepares to sunset its 501(c)(3). Nearly 50 years ago, the founders of both organizations shared a friendship and vision for clean energy, and this grant represents the passing of that mission and purpose to a new generation.

“This is an investment in people and in the future of our communities,” said David O’Connor, board chair of E4TheFuture. “By preparing more workers for clean energy careers, we can strengthen our economy while making real progress toward decarbonization.”

6 Brick’s, Green Meadows Continue Partnership with Patton Alliance for Veterans

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Cannabis dispensaries 6 Brick’s and Green Meadows, along with the Shubrick and Patton families, continued their collaborative partnership throughout the month of November in support of the Patton Alliance for Veterans, an organization dedicated to advancing veteran-focused initiatives nationwide.

Rooted in shared values of service, community, and healing, the partnership brought together two independent, family-owned Massachusetts cannabis companies to raise awareness and financial support for veterans facing physical and mental health challenges.

Throughout the month of November, 6 Brick’s partnered with Green Meadows to donate $1 for every Green Meadows, At Ease, or 6 Brick’s product sold, with the campaign culminating in a total contribution of $6,550 to the Patton Alliance for Veterans. 100% of these funds will go to charitable efforts. In addition, 6 Brick’s honored veterans with a 10% discount throughout the entire month, reinforcing the campaign’s commitment to accessibility, recognition, and gratitude.

“It is a true honor to be able to continue this partnership,” said Payton Shubrick, founder and CEO of 6 Brick’s. “Our families and our companies go forward together in supporting America’s veterans in a unique partnership that allows 6 Brick’s, our customers, and my family to support those who can never be thanked enough. Many veterans of all ages and eras of service come to us as part of their health regimen. They are so supportive of our alliance with the Patton family.”

Robert ‘Bob’ Patton, chairman and co-founder of Green Meadows, added that “the Patton family and Green Meadows are proud to again partner with the Shubrick family and 6 Brick’s on this meaningful initiative to our family, legacy, and veterans. While we work together year-round to deliver high-quality cannabis and customer service to our communities, this November campaign has become integral to our family and business’ mission. Supporting the Patton Alliance for Veterans allows our partnership to extend beyond the cannabis industry and toward a shared mission of service to those who gave us everything.”

The partnership represents a powerful alignment of diverse backgrounds and shared purpose. 6 Brick’s is Black-owned and women-owned, while Green Meadows was founded by a family descended from some of America’s most notable military leaders, including Gen. George Patton, one of the most prominent figures of World War II. Together, their collaboration reflects the diversity, unity, and resilience of the American story. Dec. 21 will mark the 80th anniversary of Gen. Patton’s passing in 1945.

Green Meadows’ affiliated nonprofit initiatives support organizations including Stop Soldier Suicide and the Black Veterans Project, further amplifying the impact of this partnership.

Colebrook Realty Services Brokers Sale of Bank Branch to UMassFive

By
Daily News

EAST LONGMEADOW — Colebrook Realty Services announced the sale of 465 North Main St. in East Longmeadow to UMassFive College Federal Credit Union for $2 million. The property most recently housed a TD Bank branch. Located at the corner of North Main Street and Harkness Avenue, the building is approximately 2,800 square feet on more than 0.6 acres of land.

B. John Dill, president and CEO of Colebrook Realty Services, represented the seller, 465 North Main Street LLC. Nancy Nesbitt of AccuBranch represented UMassFive College Credit Union.

Originally developed as a branch of the former Springfield Institution for Savings (SIS) in 1970 by the Martone and Preston families, the site served as a banking facility for several successor banks to SIS, most recently TD Bank. Two generations of the Martone and Preston families served as stewards of this prominent location.

“Colebrook took a relationship-based approach to this deal and handled it as only Colebrook could,” said Alan Martone, manager of 465 North Main Street LLC. “This property has been family-owned for more than 50 years; we were pleased to see it remain in local ownership. At the end of the transaction, all seven partners were satisfied, and we left as friends — an unlikely outcome for a development that started with a handshake among the previous generation.”

Dill complimented all parties for the cooperation that brought the transaction to fruition. “This was a uniquely collaborative deal,” he said. “Everyone involved, including TD Bank’s facilities management team, were great to work with in the transition to new ownership.”

MountainOne Announces Two New Senior Commercial Credit Analysts

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne has welcomed two new senior commercial credit analysts, Ann Barnes and Nicholas Fanfan, to its Commercial Banking division.

In their roles, Barnes and Fanfan evaluate the financial strength of commercial borrowers and prospects, prepare credit analyses to support new and renewed credit requests, and collaborate with commercial lenders on deal structuring and portfolio management. They also assist in monitoring borrower performance to help maintain the long-term quality of the commercial loan portfolio.

Barnes brings more than 10 years of experience in commercial lending and collateral oversight. She most recently served as vice president of Collateral Oversight at Blue Ridge Bank in Richmond, Va. Prior to that, she held leadership roles at Salus Capital Partners in Needham, supporting asset-based lending operations and credit risk management. She earned a degree in accounting from Bryant University.

Fanfan joins MountainOne with experience in commercial credit and lending at Cambridge Savings Bank in Waltham, where he supported credit decision making across commercial real estate, corporate banking, and asset-based lending portfolios. He earned a bachelor’s degree in managerial economics from UMass Amherst.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome Ann and Nicholas to the MountainOne team,” said Marie Harris, vice president, Credit Administration manager at MountainOne Bank. “Each brings a unique perspective shaped by their experience, and both will be valuable as we continue to meet the needs of our commercial clients and communities.”

Weed Man Collects 286 Pounds of Food for Food Bank of Western Massachusetts

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The team at Weed Man in Springfield announced that its Grassroots Giving campaign was a success, and they have collected 286 pounds of food for the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. That works out to nearly 238 meals for local families across Springfield.

“At Weed Man, we are firm believers that charity starts in your own front yard. That’s why we were so proud to partner with the amazing team at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, and we can all feel good knowing that all the donations will be distributed right here in the Springfield community,” the company stated. “We’re also proud that this was a part of Weed Man’s national Grassroots Giving campaign that saw local Weed Man franchisees across North America using their team and their trucks to gather food donations from their customers in their respective communities.”

In last year’s inaugural campaign, the Weed Man fleet combined to collect more than 78,000 pounds of food from its customers in the U.S. and Canada. This year, the fleet far exceeded its goal of collecting more than 100,000 pounds of food from across North America, with a grand total of 108,000 pounds.

“It’s amazing to see the entire Weed Man family step up in such an amazing way, and we’re happy we could do our part for families right here in Springfield,” the company stated. “This cause has never been more important, as one in eight households in the United States is currently facing food insecurity, while one in five Canadian families don’t have sufficient access to quality food and other basic needs.”

Contributions to the Zoo in Forest Park to Be Doubled Through End of Year

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Donations to the Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center will be matched dollar for dollar through the end of the year, thanks to a commitment from the Anthony M. and Lea Scibelli Charitable Foundation, which has pledged to match gifts up to $20,000, providing critical support during one of the Zoo’s most crucial fundraising periods of the year.

“This time of year, we are overwhelmed and humbled by the number of people who step up and support the zoo, including this incredible matching gift from the Anthony M. and Lea Scibelli Charitable Foundation,” said Sarah Tsitso, executive director of the Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center. “Our animals, most of which are vulnerable and unable to survive on their own in the wild, rely on the generosity of their friends in the community to stay safe, happy, and healthy. For our donors, this is a rare opportunity to turn their generosity into something even bigger, doubling their donations through this amazing matching gift.”

Although the zoo is closed to the public from November to March, it remains fully operational all year long. “Because we are a seasonal experience for guests, people often assume we operate seasonally as a zoo as well,” said Gabry Tyson, assistant executive director. “In reality, the work here never stops. For the animals, this is their home, and they remain in their home regardless of the season.”

As a result, the costs associated with daily animal care, such as food, heat, bedding, habitat maintenance, and medical needs continue even when revenue from admissions stops during the winter months.

This matching gift from the Scibelli Foundation aims to lessen that gap, and the zoo is calling on the community to help unlock the full $20,000 match before the end of the year.

The Zoo in Forest Park is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. A tax-deductible gift to this matching campaign can be made online by clicking here, or via check to Forest Park Zoological Society, P.O. Box 80295, Springfield, MA 01138.

JKirley Collective Launches New AI + Emotional Intelligence Training

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — JKirley Collective announced the launch of a groundbreaking, two-hour training program designed to help Massachusetts organizations strengthen their workforce’s readiness for artificial intelligence (AI) adoption. This new virtual workshop, focused on both AI fluency and emotional intelligence (EI) for change leadership, is now eligible for up to 100% reimbursement through the Workforce Training Fund Express Grant, specifically for Massachusetts businesses with fewer than 100 employees.

As AI accelerates transformation across industries, from healthcare and manufacturing to retail, nonprofits, and professional services, Massachusetts employers are recognizing that technology alone isn’t the barrier — it’s people’s readiness to adapt.

This innovative program addresses that critical gap by combining practical AI skills training with emotional intelligence development. Participants gain hands-on experience with AI systems while developing deeper insight into how their Everything DiSC behavioral style shapes their approach to technology, collaboration, and change. No prior AI or DiSC experience is required.

The program brings together two complementary areas of expertise: emotional intelligence and workplace culture development, paired with AI strategy and ethical implementation guidance. This dual-focus approach ensures participants develop both the technical capabilities and the human skills needed to lead through technological change.

Research shows that organizations with higher emotional intelligence during technology transitions experience higher adoption rates, more effective collaboration, and reduced resistance to new systems. This program directly addresses these success factors, helping businesses build teams that are skilled, adaptable, and ready for the future.

Individuals who should attend include supervisors, managers, team leads, project managers, department heads, and emerging leaders responsible for implementing AI tools or supporting colleagues through technology-driven change.

More details about the expert instructors and upcoming free informational webinars will be announced in January. Click here to learn more about this course and submit an express grant application.

Westfield State University Receives Davis Educational Foundation Grant

By
Daily News

WESTFIELD — The Davis Education Foundation has awarded Westfield State University a two-year grant of $449,980 to support the ongoing project “From Innovation to Impact: Scaling General Education Reform to Advance Westfield’s Integrative Student Experience.”

The grant will empower Westfield State to continue strengthening its general education curriculum by ensuring that learning outcomes, practice standards, and high-impact practices are fully integrated into redesigned courses. The funding will also permit Westfield State to formalize and expand its peer mentor program, an initiative that improves student leadership skills, engagement, confidence, and success.

In awarding the grant, the foundation’s trustees praised Westfield State’s effort to revise its general education curriculum as an “impressive undertaking by a dedicated group of professionals.”

The support of the Davis Educational Foundation will advance Westfield State’s strategic plan and strengthen its mission to foster the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the region by equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and character to lead with purpose and civic responsibility.

“We extend our gratitude to the Davis Educational Foundation trustees for their continued support in acknowledging the critical importance of cultivating an educational environment that is pertinent, timely, and effectively prepares students for success in the modern world,” said Linda Thompson, president of Westfield State University.

The Davis Educational Foundation was established by Stanton and Elisabeth Davis after Stanton’s retirement as chairman of Shaw’s Supermarkets Inc.

Berkshire United Way Awards $51,630 to 15 Organizations for Food Assistance

By
Daily News

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire United Way (BUW) has awarded $51,630 to 15 local organizations to strengthen food distribution efforts in response to rising food insecurity and recent disruptions in federal assistance programs such as SNAP.

Following a thorough application and review process, BUW provided funding to Berkshire Bounty, Berkshire Community College Foundation, Berkshire Dream Center, Berkshire Grown, the Christian Center, Community Health Programs (CHP), First United Methodist Church, Friends of the Pittsfield Senior Center, Great Barrington Farmers Market, the People’s Pantry, Pittsfield Community Food Pantry, seeing rainbows, Sonrisas, Village Food Box, and Westside Legends.

“We will absolutely put these funds to good use. Your efforts to raise funds and distribute them so quickly are incredible,” said Bethany Kieley, CEO of CHP.

“This aid is exceptionally meaningful for our community at this time and is deeply appreciated,” added maayan nuri héd, executive director of seeing rainbows.

The funding combines local donations with support from the United Response Fund, which enabled all 13 United Ways in Massachusetts to expand and stabilize food access through increased pantry capacity, direct financial relief, and culturally appropriate food options.

“None of our Berkshire neighbors should face hunger,” said Katherine von Haefen, BUW president and CEO. “The quick and collaborative work of our local food organizations and the generosity of our community is a powerful reminder that, when we come together, we can create lasting change.”

Support BUW and food and emergency relief at www.berkshireunitedway.org/donate.

UMassFive Awards Amherst Cinema $10,000 UMass Athletics Advertising Package

By
Daily News

AMHERST — UMassFive College Credit Union announced Amherst Cinema as the grand prize winner of its second annual Small Business Spotlight contest. Nominated by the community, the winner was revealed at the final UMass football home game of the season at McGuirk Alumni Stadium on Nov. 25, ahead of Small Business Saturday.

Amherst Cinema will receive a $10,000 UMass Athletics advertising package, featuring exposure across digital displays, radio reads, email campaigns, and tabling opportunities at the Mullins Center during UMass basketball and hockey home games for the remainder of the season.

The contest underscores the partnership between UMassFive, UMass Athletics, and UMass Sports Properties (the official multimedia rights holder for UMass Athletics) and their shared commitment to uplifting small businesses while strengthening community ties.

“Small businesses are the heart of our community, and we’re proud to celebrate the incredible contributions they make every day,” said Craig Boivin, vice president of Marketing at UMassFive. “Through this contest, we aim to support these businesses’ growth while highlighting their positive impact on our community.”

The Small Business Spotlight contest received nearly 100 nominations from across Western Mass., highlighting businesses that excel in service, innovation, and community engagement. Two secondary winners — Masuda’s Cafe and InfinityEd — were awarded $500 cash prizes to support their ongoing community efforts.

“We’re once again thrilled to work with UMassFive to spotlight local businesses,” UMass Amherst Director of Athletics Ryan Bamford said. “Small businesses are a vital part of our community’s character, and we’re honored to lift up their stories and share with our fans and alumni.”

Yasmin Chin Eisenhauer, executive director of Amherst Cinema, added, “on behalf of the cinema, we’re absolutely thrilled to be named this year’s Small Business Spotlight winner. As a nonprofit arthouse located in the heart of downtown, we’re deeply committed to bringing our community together through the magic of cinema 365 days a year. And as we gear up for our 20th anniversary, the opportunity to partner with UMassFive and UMass Athletics comes at an especially meaningful time and is deeply appreciated.”

Braman Termite & Pest Elimination Welcomes Allison Garriss as HR Director

By
Daily News

AGAWAM — Braman Termite & Pest Elimination announced the hiring of Allison Garriss as its new director of Human Resources (HR). An SHRM-CP-certified HR leader with more than a decade of experience, Garriss brings a strong background in talent strategy, employee relations, and organizational development to support Braman’s continued growth.

In her role, Garriss will lead all aspects of HR, helping to strengthen workforce development, enhance recruitment and retention, and support Braman’s long-standing mission to serve customers with professionalism, safety, and reliability. Known for her ability to translate business needs into people-centered solutions, she will play a key role in shaping Braman’s culture.

“Allison brings the expertise, leadership, and energy we need as we continue to expand,” Braman CFO Josh Lazarus said. “Her experience building strong, compliant, and supportive workplaces makes her an ideal fit for our organization and our commitment to our employees and the communities we serve.”

Garriss previously held HR leadership roles at Carr Property Management and O’Connell Care at Home, where she led major initiatives in compliance, onboarding, employee engagement, performance management, and organizational change. She also brings experience from the nonprofit, education, and healthcare sectors, along with a master’s degree in organizational management from Springfield College.

“I’m excited to join Braman and support a team that values its people as much as its customers,” Garriss said.

Pickleball Kingdom Holyoke Announces Grand Opening Celebration on Dec. 20

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Pickleball Kingdom announced the grand opening of its brand-new, state-of-the-art indoor pickleball facility on Saturday, Dec. 20. Located at Holyoke Mall, the facility will offer free open play throughout the entire weekend to celebrate the occasion (reserve a spot on the Pickleball Kingdom app). The grand opening day will include a ribbon cutting at 12:30 p.m.

Every court is equipped with a TV for live scoring and instant replays, an experience unlike any other pickleball venue in the region.

Berkshire Money Management Welcomes Financial Advisor PJ Gagne

By
Daily News

DALTON — Berkshire Money Management (BMM) announced that Financial Advisor PJ Gagne has joined the firm. He brings a grounded, values-based approach to financial planning, helping professionals and business owners in their 50s and 60s answer life’s biggest financial questions and move toward retirement with clarity and confidence.

Gagne specializes in guiding clients through pivotal decisions, such as when to take Social Security, how to protect their children’s future, and how to turn a lifetime of hard work into long-term financial security. His collaborative planning style helps clients understand their best-case scenarios while preparing for uncertainties. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Fairfield University and is an accredited investment fiduciary.

“PJ’s ability to simplify complex decisions and help clients move forward confidently makes him a tremendous addition to our team,” said Allen Harris, founder and CEO of Berkshire Money Management. “His expertise will support our continued growth as we expand services across the region and open our new Williamstown office.”

Westfield Bank Appoints Michael Harrington Senior Lender for Massachusetts

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Michael Harrington

WESTFIELD — James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank, announced the promotion of Michael Harrington to senior vice president and senior lender for the state of Massachusetts. This appointment recognizes his consistent and strong leadership and his impact on the bank’s growth and success.

Harrington, who previously served as senior vice president and team leader of Middle Market CRE Lending, has been promoted to senior lender and will be responsible for the bank’s commercial lending activities in the state of Massachusetts, including overseeing its Massachusetts portfolio and new business development, as well as handling his current duties.

“Michael has been instrumental in growing the bank’s commercial lending portfolio for the past 18 years,” said Allen Miles, executive vice president and chief lending officer of Westfield Bank. “His commitment, experience, and expertise, especially in commercial real estate, have made him a trusted partner to many of our customers. We’re excited to have him leading our team in Massachusetts, and confident he will continue to help businesses throughout the region acquire, expand, and grow.”

With more than 33 years of banking and commercial lending experience, Harrington joined Westfield Bank in 2007. Prior to that, he served as a commercial lender and credit analyst at the former Westbank.

Daruma Japanese BBQ & Sushi AYCE Announces Fundraiser for Holyoke Fire Victims

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HOLYOKE — Daruma Japanese BBQ & Sushi AYCE announced its inaugural give-back initiative dedicated to supporting the recovery efforts for the victims of the recent fires on Clemente and Franklin streets in Holyoke.

As a new addition to the Holyoke business community, Daruma is committed to making a tangible difference by donating 100% of ticket revenue from a 48-hour sales event to the support fund hosted by Enlace de Familias.

The fundraiser offers community members an opportunity to dine while contributing directly to neighbors in need. Daruma has allocated 200 certificates for their standard All You Can Eat (AYCE) menu, which includes access to the grille and sushi bar. These certificates are priced at $32.99 each, with an option to upgrade to the premium grille menu for an additional $12 fee upon redemption.

Per Daruma policy, if one person in a party upgrades to premium, the entire party will be upgraded. Upgrades can be purchased at the time of redemption; however, rates may vary at that time. Beverage and gratuity are not included in this offer. This initiative presents a potential donation of more than $6,500, with the opportunity to approach $9,000 through premium upgrades.

Ticket sales will be open for a strictly limited 48-hour window, beginning Friday, Dec. 19 at noon and concluding Sunday, Dec. 21 at noon. Purchased certificates are valid for redemption from Jan. 2, 2026 through Dec. 31, 2033, making them an ideal option for holiday gifting or future dining.

Purchasers can secure their tickets through the Greater Holyoke Chamber website. Options for receiving the certificates include digital delivery, mail delivery (with a small processing fee), or in-person pickup. While a minimal processing fee applies to digital transactions to cover administrative costs, 100% of the ticket face value proceeds directly to the relief fund.

Despite being a new establishment, Daruma Japanese BBQ & Sushi AYCE has already demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement. Following a recent $1,000 donation to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, the restaurant is now focusing its efforts on immediate local relief. The management team recognizes the challenges residents face, from changes in SNAP benefits to the hardships of winter and recent tragedies. By cultivating career opportunities for local youth and embracing the diversity of its clientele, Daruma aims to weave itself into the fabric of the Holyoke community.

Cradles to Crayons Launches Winter Clothing Drive

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BOSTON — Winter weather is here across Massachusetts. While many children head out to sled or build a snowman with friends, others face clothing insecurity and lack access to coats, warm clothing layers, gloves, and boots to stay warm during these weather extremes.

Cradles to Crayons has launched a Gear Up for Winter initiative aiming to provide 50,000 coats to children living in low-income and homeless situations across Massachusetts so they can stay warm and feel prepared for the winter weather.

“As winter begins, one in three children in Massachusetts don’t have the winter clothing they need,” said Alicia Kabir, executive director of Cradles to Crayons Massachusetts. “As families juggle the costs of housing, heat, and food, their budgets are stretched to the limits. Cradles to Crayons Gear Up for Winter will help provide warm clothing like coats, boots, and hats so local families have one less expense to worry about.”

Thousands of families rely on Cradles to Crayons to keep their kids warm during New England’s harsh winter weather. This need includes clothing items, boots, hats, gloves, and coats. Cradles to Crayons has donation dropbox locations at these locations, accepting new or gently used clothing items: Old Navy, Holyoke Mall, 50 Holyoke St.; Old Navy, Mountain Farms, 335 Russell St., Hadley; and Lander Grinspoon Elementary School, 257 Prospect St., Northampton.

Way Finders Launches Second Round of Job Readiness Program

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HOLYOKE — Holyoke residents have a new opportunity to level up their careers with a free job readiness program, Holyoke Leads, Holyoke Works (HLHW), being offered again by Way Finders after a successful launch earlier this year.

“The first time we offered this class, it filled up quickly,” said Bea Dewberry, Community Building and Engagement director at Way Finders. “Our students are getting great results — better jobs and growing businesses. I think it’s because HLHW is more than a ‘brush up your résumé’ class. We take the time to get to know each student. We work with them individually and collectively to build confidence and skills. And they support each other, too.”

HLHW includes 18 classes on topics like basic computer skills, managing finances, job interview techniques, and more, all geared toward helping participants create a clear path toward a better job or starting a business. Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a free Chromebook and a $150 stipend, plus job placement support for a year after graduation.

“I liked that the program covers a bunch of different bases — budgeting and finances, computer classes, self-empowerment. It’s nice being able to come to a program and see like-minded folks, going through different things, who share their piece,” said participant Kavonnah Cruz, who plans to pass on the information she is learning to others. “The instructors are fun and inspiring; it makes you want to stay. It’s nice to see people who believe in you and want to help you.”

HLHW offers English and Spanish classes, and is coordinated by Way Finders in partnership with OneHolyoke CDC and Common Capital. Holyoke residents can learn more and sign up at www.wayfinders.org/hlhw. The registration deadline is Jan. 15, 2026.

“Our first classes filled up quickly, and space is limited,” Dewberry said. “We encourage interested Holyoke residents to register soon.”

Window World of Western Massachusetts Earns National Recognition

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BELCHERTOWN — Qualified Remodeler, a leading publication serving remodelers and home improvement companies in the U.S., recently ranked Window World of Western Massachusetts 92nd among the 200 largest home improvement companies in the country — a list known as the HIP 200. This places Window World of Western Massachusetts first in Western Mass.

The store was chosen as a 2025 HIP 200 company by the Qualified Remodeler editorial staff for meeting a set of criteria including installed remodeling dollar volume, total years in business, industry association membership, industry certification, industry awards, and community service.

“Our success is a team effort. Being included in the prestigious HIP 200 list isn’t just about the numbers — it’s about the dedication and hard work of everyone at Window World of Western Mass.,” owner Tim Drost said. “Huge thanks to our expert carpenters, outstanding customer service, and every team member who makes this possible. Our mission is to elevate your home improvement experience. We’re so grateful for our amazing customers for trusting the process every day.”

For more than two decades, Window World of Western Massachusetts has been serving the community with a wide range of home improvement products, including energy-efficient windows, doors, and siding and roofing. The company is committed to customer satisfaction with a focus on clear communication and meticulous craftsmanship on every project, big or small.

“Based on Qualified Remodeler’s analysis, the HIP 200 firms tend to share several common attributes, including strong revenues, a commitment to customer service, insightful sales techniques, and strong customer loyalty,” said Patrick O’Toole, Qualified Remodeler’s owner and editorial director. “These attributes helped put the firms on this list and contribute to their success.”

Additional information on the HIP 200 can be found in the November/December 2025 issue of Qualified Remodeler and at www.qualifiedremodeler.com.

Valley Jazz Voices Brings the Great American Songbook to BOMBYX on Jan. 10

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NORTHAMPTON — Valley Jazz Voices, the Pioneer Valley’s longest-running community jazz vocal ensemble, will present a winter concert at the BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity, 130 Pine St., Florence, on Saturday, Jan. 10 at 3 p.m.

The program features selections from the Great American Songbook organized around themes of the sun, the moon, the weather and love, all arranged and sung in the group’s signature four‑part jazz harmonies. The singers will be accompanied by a jazz trio led by pianist Dylan Walter, with Wes Brown on bass and Dillon Pinard on drums.

Directed by Jeff Olmsted and founded in 2014, Valley Jazz Voices performs swing, bebop, cool, Brazilian, and pop‑inspired jazz arrangements and highlights local vocal talent and community musicianship. The concert is a family‑friendly matinee that offers familiar standards presented with fresh arrangements and warm ensemble sound.

Tickets cost $20 in advance or at the door; children under 12 are free. For tickets and information, visit bombyx.live/events/valley-jazz-voices-winter-concert.

MountainOne Bank Promotes Peter Barrow to Commercial Portfolio Manager

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Peter Barrow

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced the promotion of Peter Barrow to commercial portfolio manager.

In this role, Barrow plays a key part in supporting the success of MountainOne’s commercial lending relationships. He brings financial insight, credit analysis expertise, and thoughtful collaboration to the lending process, working closely with commercial loan officers and business clients to ensure financing solutions are well-structured and aligned with business needs. Barrow will also monitor and manage existing loan relationships to support long-term portfolio health and client growth.

Barrow joined MountainOne in January 2022 as a commercial credit analyst and was promoted to senior commercial credit analyst in October 2024. His prior industry experience includes serving as a senior financial specialist at General Dynamics Mission Systems. He holds a degree in finance from Siena College. He previously served as a coach for the Adams Cheshire Police Athletic Basketball League and as assistant coach for Adams Cheshire Youth Football.

“This role gives me the chance to continue building on the fundamentals I’ve learned and deepen my work with our commercial portfolio,” Barrow said. “I’m grateful for the support of my colleagues and excited to keep growing with MountainOne.”

“Peter’s promotion reflects the consistency and care he brings to his work every day,” said Dick Kelly, senior vice president, senior commercial risk officer at MountainOne. “His experience and steady judgment strengthen our team and support the continued growth of our commercial credit operations.”

Franklin County Community Development Corp. Announces Staffing Updates

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GREENFIELD — The Franklin County Community Development Corp. (FCCDC), a community economic development organization that provides support for small businesses throughout Western Mass., has added three new staff members and shifted the duties of a fourth. The FCCDC also announced a new open position.

Lending Director Kwaku Ofori began at the FCCDC in November. A finance and development professional with more than 15 years of experience in business lending, small business technical assistance, and community-focused finance, he leads the FCCDC’s lending programs that expand access to capital for small businesses and entrepreneurs across Western Mass.

Brian Dejnak began at the FCCDC in June as community lending associate. A lending professional formerly with the USDA and Greenfield Savings Bank, he works with businesses seeking flexible financing to start or grow their enterprises.

Anna Halpin-Healy joined the FCCDC in July as finance specialist. She has held business operations roles in agriculture, education, and retail environments. She supports the day-to-day financial operations of the organization, including bookkeeping, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and grant reporting assistance.

Angela Varilly, who joined the FCCDC in 2024 as lending manager, has moved into the business assistance manager position. She is a finance leader with nearly two decades of experience in retail banking with Greenfield Savings Bank. She guides small business owners at all stages and leads the Entrepreneurship Accelerator, part of the FCCDC’s UPstart program for early-stage entrepreneurs.

Finally, Myra Marcellin left the FCCDC after two and a half years of service to take on the role of investment director with Black Farmer Fund. She will continue to support small businesses that FCCDC works with as a consultant.

The FCCDC is looking to round out its staff by adding a farm and food business advisor. Those interested can visit fccdc.org/careers to learn more about the position and find directions to apply.

State Launches Business Builds Program to Support Business Expansion

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BOSTON — The Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED) announced the launch of Business Builds, a new competitive capital grant program designed to support business expansion, job creation, and climate-friendly investment across Massachusetts.

Created through the Mass Leads Act and administered by the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, Business Builds provides strategic grants to businesses relocating to, expanding in, or creating new jobs in Massachusetts. The program is aimed at strengthening Massachusetts’ competitiveness, accelerating private investment, and advancing projects that provide a clear public benefit, including job growth, revitalization of underutilized properties, and economic growth in rural areas.

“Massachusetts succeeds when businesses can grow, innovate, and create jobs in every region of our state,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “Business Builds gives employers the support they need to modernize facilities, expand operations, and invest with confidence right here in Massachusetts.”

Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley added that “Massachusetts competes on the strength of its business climate and its ability to support companies that want to grow here. Business Builds is a smart, targeted tool that helps companies make the kinds of investments that drive long-term economic strength, from modernized facilities to job-creating expansions.”

Business Builds is a rolling program, and the next deadline to apply is Feb. 4, 2026. For more information, visit www.mass.gov/info-details/business-builds-capital-grant-program.

“Business Builds provides flexible, practical support that meets companies where they are, whether they are expanding in a gateway city, modernizing a rural facility, or transforming a site that has been underutilized for years,” Undersecretary of Business Strategies Zenobia Moochhala said. “This is about helping employers thrive and ensuring that every region of the state shares in our economic momentum.”