Incorporations where not available at press time and will be published in the next edition of BusinessWest.
BusinessWest Owner Donates $500,000 to Cathedral High School
SPRINGFIELD — Cathedral High School has received a $500,000 donation from Cathedral alumnus John Gormally, owner of BusinessWest magazine. Cathedral High School President Dr. Ann Southworth said the gift “will be used to provide immediate tuition assistance to students desiring a Cathedral High School education, as well as support faculty.” But the money is more than just a donation. Gormally is also challenging the business community in Western Mass. to “step up to the plate and show their support” like he has done. “I have confidence in Catholic education,” said Gormally, a 1978 graduate of the school. “I think it is important to have a Catholic high school in Springfield. It is my hope and desire that the Springfield Diocese finds a way to rebuild Cathedral on Surrey Road in Springfield. I would also hope that the business community steps up to recognize Cathedral as the important resource it is in the community and financially support it.”
Bay Path Commits to Expand College Access
LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University President Carol Leary joined President Obama, the first lady, and Vice President Biden, along with hundreds of college presidents and other higher-education leaders, to announce new actions to help more students prepare for and graduate from college. The White House College Opportunity Day of Action helped support Obama’s commitment to partner with colleges and universities, business leaders, and nonprofits to support students across the country. “I am honored to participate in this important initiative and to represent the 76.6 million adult women in this country who do not have a baccalaureate degree,” said Leary. “Through the launch of the American Women’s College at Bay Path University, we are making a bold commitment to provide a truly revolutionary model of higher education for underserved adult women. It is time that we as a country focus on this population. Higher education has the potential to transform a woman’s life and, in so doing, positively impact her community, her workplace, and her family. The generational impact of educating adult women is profound: research demonstrates that only 13% of children of women without a degree go on to college. When a woman earns a degree, that figure escalates to 49%. A focus on the education of adult women is critical to President Obama’s goal of restoring our nation as a global leader in college-educated citizenry.” Leary is among the participants being asked to commit to new action in one of four areas: building networks of colleges around promoting completion, creating K-12 partnerships around college readiness, investing in high-school counselors as part of the first lady’s Reach Higher initiative, and increasing the number of college graduates in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Expanding opportunity for more students to enroll and succeed in college, especially low-income and underrepresented students, is vital to building a strong economy and a strong middle class. Today, only 9% of those born in the lowest family income quartile attain a bachelor’s degree by age 25, compared to 54% in the top quartile.
Chief Executives Expect Firms to Keep Growing
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Business Roundtable said Tuesday that 40% of its member CEOs plan to hire more workers, up from 34% in the third quarter. Nearly three-quarters project their sales will rise, roughly the same as the previous quarter. The findings suggest that slowing growth overseas hasn’t caused large corporations to pull back on their hiring plans. Still, the CEOs say they are less likely to invest in new facilities or equipment; 13% say they plan to cut such spending, up from just 10% in the previous quarter. The survey was conducted between Oct. 22 and Nov. 12, and is based on 129 responses from the Roundtable’s 200 member CEOs.
Panel Calls for Changes in State Officials’ Pay
BOSTON — A seven-member advisory commission created by legislation to review compensation for the state’s constitutional officers and the Legislature presented its findings and recommendations Monday in a detailed report to the public and policy makers. The commission, chaired by Ira Jackson, dean of the John W. McCormack Graduate School of Policy and Global Studies at UMass Boston, was established by Section 239 of the state budget and appointed in September 2014 to analyze compensation for public officials, including the governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, treasurer, secretary of state, auditor, and the Legislature. The commission was mandated to issue its report by Dec. 1. “The Advisory Commission conducted a transparent, open, data-driven review of the current compensation of public officials and developed a series of major reforms and recommendations based on its research, as well as input from the public,” said Jackson. “We recommend that the Legislature strongly consider implementing important reforms to the process of calculating compensation, while at the same time making appropriate increases in compensation levels for the governor and other elected officials to more adequately reflect their responsibilities.” Recommended reforms include:
• Eliminating legislative per diem payments;
• Determining the biennial adjustment in legislative pay through a consistent process using
data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis to measure the quarterly change in salaries and
wages in Massachusetts for the most recent eight quarters;
• Calculating any increase or decrease in compensation for all constitutional officers and the
House speaker and Senate president using the bureau’s data on a biennial basis;
• Limiting outside employment through a first-in-the-nation measure precluding the
constitutional officers, House speaker, and Senate president from earning outside income, other than passive income; and
• Establishing future special advisory commissions on a biennial basis to conduct a thorough
review of compensation and reforms.
Specific recommendations on compensation include:
• Ensuring that any compensation increases must be cost-neutral to the taxpayer through efficiencies and savings identified by the constitutional officers and Legislature and reported on an annual basis to ensure accountability and transparency;
• Establishing the salary for the governor at $185,000, which, when adjusted for cost of living, would rank 10th among the 50 states. Massachusetts is one of only six states that does not provide a governor’s residence or a housing allowance. The commission recommends that the governor receive a housing allowance of $65,000;
• Providing a salary of $175,000 for the attorney general and the treasurer and receiver general;
• Setting a salary of $165,000 for the lieutenant governor, the secretary of state, and the state auditor;
• Establishing compensation for the House speaker and Senate president at $175,000 annually; and
• Increasing the legislative office expense to $10,000 for legislators whose districts are within a 50-mile radius of Boston, and to $15,000 for legislators located outside that radius.
“While any recommendation to increase compensation for state leaders may be controversial, the commission believes these increases are appropriate based on the data we reviewed, and the recommended reforms are important foundations for public trust,” said Jackson. “The commission’s recommendations were guided by a thorough review of data comparing Massachusetts with other states, a strong desire to ensure that the state attracts and retains highly talented individuals regardless of means or geography, and the principle that officials should be fairly compensated based on the significant responsibilities of the offices they hold.”
Christopher Heights Project Breaks Ground
NORTHAMPTON — Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Undersecretary Aaron Gornstein recently joined representatives of the Grantham Group, Northampton Mayor David Narkewicz, MassDevelopment President and CEO Marty Jones, and state and local officials to break ground on the Christopher Heights assisted-living community in Northampton. “Christopher Heights is an important step toward the goal of expanding our supply of affordable housing for all of our citizens in the Commonwealth,” said Gornstein. “DHCD is pleased to assist with this development that will not only provide new housing opportunities for the elderly, but will stimulate local economic activity. We congratulate Grantham Group and appreciate the leadership of Mayor Narkewicz and other local, state, and federal officials who have helped make this project a reality.” Christopher Heights will be the newest development in Village Hill, a 126-acre mixed-use community located on the site of the former Northampton State Hospital. Christopher Heights is expected to open in the fall of 2015 and will have 83 assisted-living units, of which 43 are designated for low-income seniors. Seventeen of the 43 affordable units will be reserved for households earning less than 30% of the area median income. Christopher Heights also has locations in Worcester, Webster, Attleboro, and Marlborough. “We are excited to bring our expertise in assisted-living development and management to the Northampton State Hospital redevelopment known as Village Hill,” said Grantham Group Managing Director Walter Ohanian. “We look forward to serving the senior population who will benefit from the housing and services of an affordable assisted-living community.” The Grantham Group estimates that the project will create 65 construction jobs for the area. Once built, there will be another 40 permanent jobs at the facility. “This exciting new addition to the Village Hill community will provide affordable assisted-living housing for our local seniors,” said state Rep. Peter Kocot. “I want to congratulate the Grantham Group, Undersecretary Gornstein, and Gov. Patrick for their leadership and commitment to developing affordable housing for people of all ages.” Since 2007, the Patrick administration has invested more than $1 billion in state and federal resources to create 24,000 units of housing, of which approximately 22,000 are affordable. In Northampton, DHCD has invested more than $7.6 million to preserve or create 98 units of housing, 95 of which are affordable, for veterans, those who are institutionalized or at-risk of institutionalization, and low-income households.
Funding Awarded for Environmental Projects in Berkshire County
LENOX, PITTSFIELD — Gov. Deval Patrick recently joined state environmental officials and local officials to announce $1.2 million in capital funding to support environmental projects at Baker’s Pond in Lenox and Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield, enhancing existing natural habitats and improving recreational opportunities for residents. “Growth requires investment, and creating and upgrading recreational parks and open spaces while also providing important community resources will help create growth and opportunity across the commonwealth,” Patrick said. “This investment will improve the lives of Massachusetts children and families now and for generations to come.” The administration’s $125,000 investment in Baker’s Pond will assist in the final phase of restoration of the pond. The removal of invasive species and water-quality improvements will preserve the habitat for wildlife species and make it a more appealing destination for visitors to Kennedy Park. Berkshire Community College’s Life Sciences Department will work with the town to ensure proper removal of any invasive species and the complete restoration of the pond. “Safe, reliable drinking water has always been a critical need. In the 21st century, we will need to develop new technologies to meet growing demand,” said U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern. “I’m pleased that the federal government is joining with the Commonwealth and UMass Amherst in this promising effort.” Baker’s Pond has a history of recreational use, but, after a small dam breach, the pond fell into disrepair, resulting in the growth of invasive plant and animal species. With ongoing improvements, the pond is once again becoming an attraction for tourists and hikers, as well as a habitat for endangered amphibian species. The city of Pittsfield was also awarded $1.1 million to ensure proper drainage and wetland protection as Berkshire Community College works to construct an athletic field on campus, the first of its kind in Berkshire County. The athletic-field location is north of a vernal pool, certified by the Natural Heritage Endangered Species Program, making it important for the project to be environmentally sensitive in order to preserve habitat for plants and animals. “Gov. Patrick has demonstrated a strong commitment to Pittsfield an Berkshire County,” said Mayor Daniel Bianchi. “The city of Pittsfield is pleased to join the governor in a financial commitment for the environmental restoration and construction of the new Berkshire Community College turf field. The new field will provide an athletic hub from Berkshire County and beyond. I look forward to the new events that the BCC turf field will bring to Pittsfield.”
Construction Spending Increases in October
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Construction spending increased in October amid growing public-sector demand for construction and continued modest growth in residential work, according to an analysis by Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said the new spending figures underscore the need for measures to increase the supply of qualified construction workers as firms worry about growing labor shortages. “Today’s data shows that construction growth remains volatile,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “While overall construction spending jumped by more than 1% in October, the gain followed two months of stagnation. Public construction was the fastest-growing segment for the month but the slowest-growing over the past year and for the first 10 months of 2014 combined. Conversely, private, non-residential construction inched down from September to October but has risen at double-digit rates — 11% — for the combined January-through-October period. And private residential construction continues to grow very modestly, with multi-family construction taking the lead on an annual basis.” Construction spending in October totaled $971 billion at a seasonally adjusted annual rate, up 1.1% from the September total and 3.3% higher than in October 2013, Simonson noted. Private residential spending edged up 1.3% from September and 1.9% from a year earlier, while private non-residential spending dropped 1.0% for the month but rose 6.4% year-over-year. The third component of the total — public construction spending — increased 1.5% from September and 2.3% from a year ago. Single-family home construction gained 1.8% for the month and 13.2% over 12 months, and multi-family work increased 1.0% from the September level and jumped 27.2% from a year earlier. The largest private non-residential type, power construction — which includes oil and gas fields and pipelines as well as electric power — slumped 1.9% in October but rose 0.3% from the prior year. Commercial construction — comprising retail, warehouse, and farm projects — decreased 2.6% for the month but increased 9.3% for the year. Manufacturing construction increased 3.4% for the month and 23% year-over-year. Among the largest public segments, highway and street construction inched up 1.1% for the month and declined 0.1% from October 2013. Public-education construction inched up 2.2% and 6.1%, respectively. “For 2014 as a whole and 2015, private non-residential spending and multi-family spending should be the strongest segments, followed by single-family construction, with very limited prospects for public construction,” Simonson said. Association officials said the spending increases come as many firms report growing labor shortages. They urged elected and appointed officials to act on a series of measures the association has identified that will help expand the supply of qualified construction workers. “We need to make sure there are enough workers available to meet growing demand for construction,” said Stephen Sandherr, the association’s CEO.
Unemployment Rates Down in Massachusetts
BOSTON — The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD) reported that seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates for October were down in 20 Massachusetts labor market areas and up in two areas, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the year, unemployment rates were down in all the labor market areas. The preliminary statewide unadjusted unemployment rate estimate for October was 5.1%, down 1.1% from September. Over the year, the statewide unadjusted rate was down 1.8% from the October 2013 rate of 6.9%. During October, 10 of the 12 areas for which job estimates are published recorded job gains. The largest job gain was in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy area, followed by the Worcester, Springfield, Brockton-Bridgewater-Easton, Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury, Peabody, New Bedford, Leominster-Fitchburg-Gardner, and Framingham areas. The Pittsfield area had no change in its jobs level over the month, while the Barnstable area recorded a seasonal loss. Since October 2013, all 12 areas added jobs, with the largest percentage gains in the Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, Worcester, Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury, Springfield, and Pittsfield areas. The seasonally adjusted statewide October unemployment rate, released on Nov. 20, remained unchanged over the month at 6.0% and down 1.2% over the year. The rate was 0.2% above the 5.8% national unemployment rate. The statewide seasonally adjusted jobs estimate showed a 1,200-job gain in October and an over-the-year gain of 52,600 jobs. The labor force, unemployment rates, and job estimates for Massachusetts and every other state are based on several different statistical methodologies specified by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. The unadjusted unemployment rates and job estimates for the labor market areas reflect seasonal fluctuations and therefore may show different levels and trends than the statewide seasonally adjusted estimates.
ABC Forecasts Continued Growth in Construction Sector
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) forecasts a steady and ongoing economic recovery for the U.S. commercial and industrial construction industries in 2015. The reasonably brisk industry recovery in 2014 should continue in 2015, with momentum especially growing in segments closely related to the current American energy and industrial production resurgence. “ABC forecasts non-residential construction spending will expand by roughly 7.5% next year,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “The segments that will experience the largest growth in construction spending in 2015 include power (e.g. natural-gas-related construction), lodging (leisure and business spending), office space (professional-services employment creation), and manufacturing (rebounding industrial production). The public sector will see far more sluggish growth in construction spending; however, this fits a multi-year pattern with private non-residential spending exceeding public non-residential spending by 28% in 2014, up from 15.6% in 2013.”
DevelopSpringfield Buys 77 Maple St.
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Preservation Trust (SPT) announced the sale of 77 Maple St. to DevelopSpringfield for $35,000. The property, built in 1832 as the Springfield Female Seminary, had fallen into a state of disrepair and near-collapse in 2009 when the trust intervened to save the property from demolition. “Today’s sale represents the completion of the trust’s important preservation work and the transfer of the property to a responsible owner who is doing great things next door at 83 Maple St.,” said Don Courtemanche, president of the Springfield Preservation Trust. “We believe having these properties together under single ownership will ultimately be in both properties’ best interests in terms of preservation and marketability.” Added Jay Minkarah, president and CEO of DevelopSpringfield, “we are thrilled to add this wonderful property to our portfolio. It makes so much sense for us to include the rehabilitation of this building in our plans for rehabilitation of the Ansel Phelps House at 83 Maple St.” Since purchasing the property, SPT has made significant structural repairs, including the critical rebuilding of a collapsed wall as well as foundation repairs, roof and trim repairs, and the repair and restoration of 24 of the building’s large, historic windows. The project has been the beneficiary of a great deal of public support, including contributions from the Springfield CDBG Program, the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the 1776 Foundation, MassMutual Financial, the Hampden Bank Foundation, Bob McCarroll, and a vast number of SPT members and friends through year-round SPT special events. “We are an all-volunteer organization and could not have saved this building without the support of the community and funders,” said Courtemanche. “This truly was a community effort.” In addition to the Ansel Phelps House, DevelopSpringfield also owns a former carriage house and row of garages on an abutting parcel and an adjacent vacant lot that will provide parking, access, and green space to support both buildings. For information on leasing opportunities, contact Minkarah at (413) 209-8808 or [email protected].
Leadership Pioneer Valley Launches Leadership 2.0
SPRINGFIELD — Leadership Pioneer Valley (LPV) is offering offering a new series of bite-sized training sessions beginning in January to enhance leadership skills and understanding of the region. The sessions are open to LPV alumni and other emerging and established leaders. LPV recognizes that leadership is a lifelong process, and the Leadership 2.0 series features six two- to three-hour training sessions on a variety of topics with the goal of deepening leadership skills, creating new and diverse connections, and making an impact on the region. The sessions are open to LPV alumni who want to continue their learning or others who are unable to be part of LPV’s 10-month program. The intent is to diversify Leadership Pioneer Valley’s offerings and create new opportunities. Workshop topics include “Effective Communications,” “Becoming a Superhero Board Member,” and a field experience to explore the Agawam area. The series sponsors include Sisters of Providence Health System/Mercy Hospital, Appleton Corp., the Beveridge Family Foundation, and the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts.
Paragus Recognized as Model Employer
HADLEY — Paragus Strategic IT was recently honored with an Employer of Choice award by the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast at the organization’s Employment Law and HR Practices Conference in Sturbridge. Paragus CEO Delcie Bean was also a featured speaker at the 21st Century Talent event focused on how top employers are changing today’s workforce. Winners of the Employer of Choice award are recognized for developing a culture of transforming and rewarding employee performance. Entrants are judged in categories including company culture, training and development, communication, recognition and reward, and work-life balance. Past winners include Maybury Material Handling, PeoplesBank, and Health New England. The 21st Century Talent conference was organized by Bank of America, Commonwealth Corp., and Grads of Life. Along with representatives from Harvard and Udacity, Bean was invited to speak about Paragus Strategic IT’s commitment to the next generation of workforce. With a 546% growth rate over six years, Paragus is the second-fastest-growing outsourced IT firm in New England. Most recently, Bean started Tech Foundry, a nonprofit education program designed to provide area high-school students with strong education and career training in technology.
Nuclea Biotechnologies Secures Design Patent
PITTSFIELD — Nuclea Biotechnologies Inc. announced that it has secured a new U.S. design patent for the design of its beam-dump assembly, a mechanical component that will be utilized in multiple diagnostic applications. The beam-dump assembly is used for the detection of low-abundance proteins within microfluidic-based environments. It identifies a change in biological samples by reading laser light. This detection instrument will be used for protein detection in Nuclea’s fatty-acid synthase (FAS), HER-2/neu, and CAIX diagnostic tests, with future potential use in additional diagnostic tests. The design patent is an important step for Nuclea as the company continues to expand its intellectual property surrounding its proprietary tests and methods. “This is another milestone for Nuclea in developing new diagnostic-based technology as it relates to the analysis of fluids in a variety of diseases,” said Patrick Muraca, the company’s president and CEO. Based in Pittsfield, Nuclea, with additional operations in Worcester and Cambridge, has developed and is commercializing unique diagnostic tests for colon, breast, leukemia, lung, and prostate cancer, as well as for diabetes and other metabolic syndromes. Nuclea also performs research leading to novel molecular oncology companion diagnostics for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
Dowd Agencies Merges Indian Orchard Offices
HOLYOKE — The Dowd Agencies, a leading insurance provider serving New England for more than 115 years, announced a merger of the firm’s two Indian Orchard-based offices. Moskal-Dowd, previously located at 20 Parker St., and Orchard-Dowd, previously located at 144 Main St., have officially merged and will now operate as the Indian Orchard-based location of the Dowd Agencies located at 485 Main St. The new, 2,500-square-foot office is officially open for business. Customers and the general public are invited to visit, and an open house is planned for the spring of 2015. “One centralized location for our Indian Orchard office will increase accessibility for our customers,” said John Dowd Jr., president and CEO of the Dowd Agencies. “The benefits of the new office include ample parking, a large conference room for meetings, and, most importantly, a larger staff to provide our customers a broader service offering from one location.” The Dowd Agencies will continue to be headquartered in Holyoke, which houses the firm’s human resources department and administrative staff.
Comcast Lends Support to New Agawam YMCA
SPRINGFIELD — In response to the recent opening of the Agawam YMCA Wellness & Program Family Center, the YMCA of Greater Springfield is announcing the donation of $10,000 from Comcast. The Agawam YMCA is the latest addition to the YMCA of Greater Springfield’s many locations, providing membership and program opportunities to the Agawam region. With support from Comcast in the way of public-service announcements and direct financial contributions, the Agawam YMCA is slated to impact more than 3,000 youth, teens, families, and seniors in Agawam and its surrounding communities. The YMCA of Greater Springfield serves 115,000 members and program participants in 14 cities and towns throughout the region. The Agawam YMCA includes a health and wellness center, sauna, group exercise space, café, technology center, and community meeting space. Naming opportunities for donors are still available. To learn more about the YMCA of Greater Springfield, contact Nikki Durham at [email protected] or visit www.springfieldy.org.
Robert Ziomek
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Darlene Libiszewski
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Barry Waite
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Catherine Turowsky
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Dawn Henry has been elected president of the 1,700-member Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley. The election took place at the association’s annual membership meeting held last month at the Yankee Pedlar in Holyoke. Henry is a real-estate sales agent with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Longmeadow. As president, she will oversee the association’s activities and operations, including meetings of the board of directors, and act as a liaison to the association’s various committees. She is the official spokesperson of the association on issues related to the real-estate industry and the local housing market. The other 2015 officers and directors include Louis Mayo, president-elect; Richard Sawicki Jr., treasurer; Janise Fitzpatrick, secretary; and Patrick Nolan, immediate past president. Directors include Elias Acuna, Edward Alford, Kelly Bowman, Shawn Bowman, Suzi Buzzee, Susan Drumm, Susan Rheaume, and Russell Sabadosa. Organized in 1915, the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley is a professional trade organization serving Franklin, Hampden, and Hampshire counties.
AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• Jan. 7: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Ludlow Country Club, One Tony Lema Drive, Ludlow. “Putting the PIONEER Back in Pioneer Valley” is the name of the program, to be led by Paul Silva, executive director of Valley Venture Mentors, and Natasha Clark, founder of LionessMagazine.com. Saluting: Dr. Mark Keroack, new CEO of Baystate Health, and Andrew Associates, celebrating its 30th anniversary. Cost: $20 for members ($25 at the door), $30 for general admission.
GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
• Dec. 17: December Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr. in Chicopee. Cost: $20 for members, $26 for non-members
• Dec. 18: Mornings with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., at the MassMutual Learning & Conference Center, 350 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Coffee and light breakfast refreshments will be served, while Mayor Richard Kos provides updates and news about what’s happening in Chicopee. The mayor invites chamber members to submit questions, concerns, or ideas for discussion by Dec. 16 to chamber President Eileen Drumm at [email protected]. This event is for Greater Chicopee Chamber members only and is free, but registration is required.
GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• Jan. 12: “Getting Down to Business about Business,” 8-9 a.m., hosted by Web-tactics Inc., 83 Main St., Easthampton. Mayor Karen Cadieux will be available for casual question-and-answer sessions. RSVP to the chamber at (413) 527-9414 by Jan. 1.
• Jan. 22: Chamber Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, 5 p.m., hosted by Southampton Country Club. The event will feature presentation of Business of the Year awards and celebrate member milestones. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 527-9414 or e-mail [email protected]
• Feb. 14: 2nd Annual Easthampton WinterFest — Fall in Love with Winter, starting at 11 a.m. The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee and Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce invite you to the WinterFest, a community-wide event that features family-friendly winter activities held throughout the day. They include an historical ice harvest on Nashawannuck Pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, snowshoeing, snow sculpture, a chili cook-off, a community bonfire, and much more. There will also be winter-themed indoor activities for all ages. Most events are free or by donation. A lineup of the day’s events will be posted on www.nashawannuckpond.org.
GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
• Dec. 17: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored and hosted by the Delaney House in Holyoke. This business networking event includes a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and money (scratch ticket) tree. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for the public. To sign up, call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit holyokechamber.com.
• Jan. 8: Winners Circle 2015 Reception, 5-7 p.m., at the Yankee Pedlar, 1866 Northampton St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Ross Insurance. We invite you to attend this enjoyable event where we honor all of our local and state elected officials. Tickets are $27. To sign up, call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit holyokechamber.com.
• Jan. 13: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business — Finding a Location,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber office, 177 High St., Holyoke. Join us in this workshop series as members of the chamber teach members of the community the steps it takes to build a successful business. Cost: $20 per session or $175 for the series.
GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900
• Dec. 10: Free Internet Marketing Seminar, 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St. Continental Breakfast will be served at 8 a.m. Admission is free. Topics include:
— How the world has gone mobile;
— The importance of responsive mobile sites;
— The power and accountability of search;
— The effectiveness of display, Facebook, and news feed ads; and
— Twitter, GooglePlus, and other social media.
• Dec. 15: New member orientation, 3-4 p.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St. This is the chance to tell us more about your business and how the chamber can best serve you. Meet other new members and learn how to make to the most of your chamber membership. Admission is free. RSVP to (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].
• Jan. 7: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at McKenney Electric, 100 Northampton St., Holyoke. Sponsored by King & Cushman. Cost: $10 for chamber members.
• Jan. 27: New member orientation, 3-4 p.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St. This is the chance to tell us more about your business and how the chamber can best serve you. Meet other new members and learn how to make to the most of your chamber membership. Admission is free. RSVP to (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].
GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
• Dec. 19: Holiday Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Platinum sponsor: Westfield State University. Gold sponsor: Berkshire Bank. Silver sponsor: Easthampton Savings Bank. The guest speaker is Beth Cardillo, executive director of Armbrook Village, who will present “Westfield: A Dementia-friendly City.” The chamber will be collecting the following high-demand items for the Westfield Food Pantry: Pasta, pasta sauce, macaroni and cheese, canned fruits and vegetables, tuna, soup, rice, cereal, peanut butter, jelly, juice, coffee, and tea. A cash donation to the Westfield Food Pantry will also be accepted. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information or to donate a raffle, contact Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• Jan. 5: January Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at MoFroYo, Little River Plaza, 617 East Main St., Westfield. This event is free and open to the public. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 or e-mail [email protected].
• Jan. 14: January After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Arbors of Westfield, 40 Court St. Sponsored by Susan Allen Financial. Cost: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880
• Jan. 15: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. One must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while social networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note that we cannot invoice you for these events. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected]
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.springfieldyps.com
• Dec. 17: CEO Luncheon, 1:15 p.m., at Cambridge College, Tower Square, 1500 Main St., Springfield. The guest speaker will be Amy Scott of Wild Apple Design Group.
• Dec. 18: December Third Thursday, 5 p.m., at the Community Music School of Springfield, 127 State St., Springfield. CMSS is dedicated to inspiring people of all ages to begin or renew a lifelong journey into the joy of music and the arts, making this experience accessible and affordable to all people in our community. It offers instruction in classical, jazz, Latin, gospel, and other popular music styles to individuals and families of diverse backgrounds and cultures, ages, abilities, talents, and financial needs. During the event, tour the facility and listen to live music from the talented CMSS students. Parking is available in the CMSS lot on Stockbridge Street. Light refreshments and a cash bar will be provided by Elegant Affairs.
Affiliated Chambers’ Business@Breakfast
Jan. 7: The entrepreneurial spirit of the region will take center stage at the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s Business@Breakfast on Jan. 7, from 7:15 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Ludlow Country Club, One Tony Lema Dr., Ludlow. Paul Silva, executive director of Valley Venture Mentors (VVM), will discuss “Putting the PIONEER Back in Pioneer Valley.” He will be joined by Natasha Clark, founder of LionessMagazine.com, a Western Mass.-based, all-digital magazine for the female entrepreneur. VVM is a nonprofit based in Springfield that provides key support to the entrepreneurial ecosystem through its mentorship and accelerator programs. Silva is the manager of the River Valley Investors angel-investor network and co-founder of the Valley Venture Mentors entrepreneurship-mentoring program and All in Play, a company creating software that helps the blind socialize with their fully sighted friends and families as equals. He is the former president of the co-working space and incubator Click Workspace. The breakfast will also honor Dr. Mark Keroack on his new role as CEO of Baystate Health, and recognize Andrew Associates on its 30th anniversary in business. Reservations are $20 for ACCGS members in advance ($25 for members at the door) and $30 for general admission. Reservations are suggested and can be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
WNEU Mini-Law School
Feb. 10 to March 10: Western New England University School of Law will open its doors to the community with a five-week program focused on demystifying the law. Starting on Feb. 10, the Mini-Law School will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blake Law Center, Room D, 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield. “Individuals interested in becoming better-informed and engaging in stimulating dialogue will find this program rewarding,” said Pat Newcombe, associate dean for Library and Information Resources. “No legal knowledge is necessary, just a curious mind.” Mini-Law School offers non-lawyers an understanding of legal topics that impact their lives. Each class is taught by School of Law faculty and moderated by the Hon. Kenneth Neiman, magistrate judge, U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts. Blending theory and practice, classes will focus on family law, health law, constitutional law, and environmental law. They include:
• Feb. 10: “Welcome to Mini-Law School: An Inside View of Law School and the Courts,” presented by Neiman and School of Law Dean Eric Gouvin;
• Feb. 17: “Family Law: What Defines a Family?” presented by
Professor of Law Jennifer Levi and Neiman;
• Feb. 24: “Health Law: End-of-Life Choices,” presented by
Professor of Law Barbara Noah and Neiman;
• March 3: “Constitutional Law: Real Law or Just Another Kind of Politics?” presented by Professor of Law Bruce Miller and Neiman; and
• March 10: “Environmental Law: Legal Solutions to Pollution Challenges,” presented by
Professor of Law Julie Steiner and Neiman.
“After five weeks, you won’t be a lawyer,” said Western New England University Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Beth Cohen, “but you will be able to better understand laws that have an effect on your life, and, unlike traditional law school, there are no tests or homework.” Tuition is $35 for all five sessions, or $10 for each individual session. The program is free of charge for any high-school, college, or graduate student with a valid student ID. To register by phone or for more information, call Newcombe at (413) 782-1616. Registration will continue through Jan. 19. Learn more at www.law.wne.edu/minilaw.
Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The magazine’s editor and publishers are currently reviewing nominations, and this year’s class will be profiled in the Feb. 9 issue.
Origami-inspired Art Exhibit
Through April 26: “Origami Interpretations,” an exhibit of 25 vibrant paintings, sculptures, and prints by New York artist Gloria Garfinkel, will be on view at the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum through April 26. The works, produced in the late 20th century, feature bold color, energetic patterns, and abstract compositions inspired by Japanese designs and origami forms. The exhibit will also serve to complement the extensive collection of Japanese decorative art from the 18th and 19th centuries on view on the second floor of the museum, and masterpieces of Japanese arms and armor in the gallery at the south end of the building.
The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.
HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
A.J. Virgilio Construction v. Big Y Foods, Alteris Renewables, Inc. d/b/a RGS Energy, and Hudson Solar Corp.
Allegation: Breach of contract: $244,472.24
Filed: 10/16/14
Hanover Foods Corp. v. Hot Mama’s Food Acquisition Corp.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $134,386.30
Filed: 10/20/14
Premier Source Credit Union v. Berkley Regional Insurance Co.
Allegation: Breach of insurance contract: $63,000
Filed: 10/12/14
Ramona Benbow v. Medeiros Williams Inc., General Motors, LLC, and Drive USA 2
Allegation: Product liability causing injury: $5,091,185.28
Filed: 10/14/14
HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Amy Jennings and Walter Jennings v. Russell Realty Partnership and G&M Enterprise d/b/a Mr. Gutter
Allegation: Negligence in property maintenance causing personal injury: $52,412.85+
Filed: 9/29/14
Safety Insurance Co. a/s/o Mary Edith Granlund v. Cory Kibbe d/b/a Adirondack Heating and W.E. Donavan & Co. Inc.
Allegation: Property damage caused by release of fuel oil into home: $329,000
Filed: 10/31/14
NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Weslee Sicard v. Wildwood Barbeque
Allegation: Gross negligence leading to smoke inhalation: $5,000
Filed: 10/29/14
PALMER DISTRICT COURT
Empire Distribution v. George Dubois d/b/a Turnpike Acres Stove Shop
Allegation: Non-payment for services and merchandise provided: $7,977.18
Filed: 10/10/14
Ronald Jansen v. Esis/Ace Insurance
Allegation: Failure to make fair, prompt, equitable offer to a demand for settlement: $4,493.97
Filed: 10/6/14
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Comcast Spotlight Inc. v. Michael Boden d/b/a Michael’s Motor Co.
Allegation: Non-payment of advertising services provided: $3,243.73
Filed: 10/1/14
Olivia Wilson v. Briarwood Three, LLC, Madison Square Realty Management, Clark HVAC Services, LLC, and Union Mutual of Vermont Cos.
Allegation: Negligence in property maintenance causing carbon-monoxide poisoning: $13,560.07
Filed: 11/3/14
Western Mass Electric Co. v. Maddox Realty, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of electric services provided: $2,138.01
Filed: 10/7/14
WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Capital One Bank v. Gerard Mongeau and Target Restoration
Allegation: Unpaid credit balance: $5,771.75
Filed: 8/29/14
Granite City Electric v. Southwick Electric Co. and Louis Berrelli Jr.
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to pay: $7,902.17
Filed: 9/19/14
Send photos with a caption and contact information to: ‘Picture This’ c/o BusinessWest Magazine, 1441 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103 or to [email protected]
Celebrating the Fort
On Dec. 3, the new ownership team at the Fort restaurant and the Student Prince staged an elaborate open house at the Springfield landmark. The event drew hundreds of long-time customers, supporters of the new ownership team, regional elected officials, business leaders, and the governor-elect, Charlie Baker. Top to bottom: principal owners Peter Picknelly, left, and Andy Yee; the scene outside as onlookers take in some speeches and then a unique ribbon cutting featuring link sausage; Baker addresses those gathered for the ceremony; the scene inside the renovated restaurant; Baker and Yee share a moment in front of the landmark.
Service Above Self
The Basketball Hall of Fame and the Rotary Club of Springfield recently honored York Mayo, Bob Perry, and Bob Delaney at the fifth annual Service Above Self luncheon. Mayo is a long-time community volunteer and CEO and president of the Roger L. Putnam Technical Fund, as well as serving on the advisory board of ROCA and several other boards, and co-founding the Springfield Unity Festival. Perry has served with the Exchange Club, the Greater Springfield YMCA, the Western Mass. Lacrosse Officials Assoc., the Roger L. Putnam Technical Fund, the Children’s Chorus of Springfield, and Ronald McDonald House, and is currently the board president of the Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity. Mayo and Perry co-founded, with Dr. Mark Jackson, the Millbrook Scholars program, which provides housing, tutoring, and life-skills mentoring to graduating seniors from Springfield high schools. National honoree Delaney is an NBA referee and crew chief, consultant, public speaker, and founder of two basketball-officiating academies. He has a background in lawenforcement and has worked with the New Jersey State Police. Pictured at top: Hall of Fame President John Doleva, Rotary Club President Rick Lee, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Perry, Mayo, Delaney, and Colvest Group CEO Frank Colaccino. At bottom: Delaney; Perry; Millbrook Scholars Stephen Ramos, Nick Perez, and Derick Lopes; and Mayo.
SPRINGFIELD — The city of Springfield and the Springfield Redevelopment Authority have released a request for proposals (RFP) for more than 17 acres of land located on Pinevale Street in the Indian Orchard neighborhood of Springfield. The RFP was released on Dec. 3 and is available online through the city’s Office of Procurement website and at City Hall, Room 307.
“In the midst of $2.7 billion of economic activity in the city of Springfield, it is logical to market this property and attempt to add to the surging momentum being felt across the city,” said Mayor Domenic Sarno.
Added Kevin Kennedy, the city’s chief development officer, “with the success of the solar project immediately across the street, we believe there is a good opportunity for development at this site. It’s not often we have industrial-park-zoned sites of this size available in Springfield.”
Western Massachusetts Electric Co.’s 2.3-MW facility across the street from the property is an award-winning former brownfield site that has been transformed into one of the largest solar-energy facilities in the region. The Indian Orchard facility features 8,200 solar panels on 12 acres of land that formerly housed a Chapman Valve foundry.
The two development parcels being made available in the RFP were both historically part of the Chapman Valve complex as well, and are currently owned by the city of Springfield (parcel 09755-0086) and the Springfield Redevelopment Authority (parcel 09755-0070). This 17.675-acre site is close to the surrounding communities of Wilbraham, Ludlow, and Chicopee, and has easy access to Route 20, I-291, and I-90.
The RFP can be viewed at www3.springfield-ma.gov/finance/procurement. Proposals are due Jan. 15 at 2 p.m.
SPRINGFIELD — On Monday, state Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Maeve Vallely Bartlett and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno celebrated Camp STAR Angelina, Mary Troy Park, and Balliet Park, all park projects reflecting the more than $7.7 million invested in parks and open space in Springfield by Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration.
“Open space and outdoor recreation investments are a critical component of building robust, healthy communities,” said Bartlett. “Gov. Patrick has made urban neighborhoods a top priority, and the evidence of that is clear today in Springfield and across the Commonwealth.”
Sarno thanked Patrick and Bartlett “for your continued vision in providing funding to increase and revitalize recreational and green spaces in urban areas. The legacy you are leaving here in Springfield is one of inclusion and opportunity, which is evidenced by the $3.5 million investment made here in Springfield, which demonstrates the Patrick administration’s commitment in creating strong and healthy communities.”
Located in Springfield’s Forest Park and operated by the city, Camp STAR Angelina offers inclusive recreational programs for youth and young adults with and without disabilities, medical concerns, and hearing and visual impairments.
EEA provided more than $1.325 million in capital funding to help fund the construction of a nearly complete, fully accessible pool and accessible bath house, as well as a universal outdoor amphitheater, construction of which will begin soon. As part of Monday’s celebration, Sarno announced that the pool and bath-house facility would be named after Gov. Patrick, in recognition of his efforts to increase access outdoor recreation for all children.
North Riverfront Park sits along the northern end of Springfield’s portion of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway, a proposed 20-mile corridor that would run through Agawam, Springfield, West Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke. EEA invested $1.2 million in North Riverfront Park to transform a property surrounded by barbed wire into a welcoming, vibrant site that will better connect Springfield’s North End to the riverfront. The city’s design features a reduction of pavement, installation of picnic tables, and an increase of pervious lawn areas, plant beds, rain gardens, and additional trees to provide shade. The city is contributing an additional $300,000 toward the project, and construction will be beginning shortly.
Mary Troy Park, a new park in the densely populated Liberty Heights neighborhood, will provide green space and access to outdoor recreation for residents. The park, set to be completed next spring, was made possible by a $400,000 Parkland Acquisition and Renovations for Communities (PARC) grant from the Patrick administration. The city will use this funding to design and build a new park, including a universally accessible series of free-standing play structures, including a water-spray feature and exercise equipment along a central pathway, as well as park amenities like drinking fountains and trash receptacles. The city of Springfield is contributing $380,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funding toward the project.
Balliet Park received a $400,000 PARC grant to renovate the baseball diamond and tennis courts, install a playground and swingset equipment, establish a picnic area, and improve access to park entrances and walkways. Springfield is using its Our Common Backyards Grant to construct a splash pad at the park, which will be completed by the year’s end.
Springfield is one of seven cities to receive funding through the governor’s Signature Urban Parks program. Through these projects, the Patrick administration seeks to revitalize urban communities by opening up or upgrading green spaces for outdoor recreation and improving access to natural resources such as waterways and historic neighborhood landmarks.
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College was named a finalist for the President’s Award for Community Service by the Corp. for National and Community Service (CNCS). The college was one of four finalists in the education category and also was awarded Honor Roll with Distinction status in the category of general community service.
This nationwide designation is part of the 2014 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll, and recognizes institutions and their students across the country for their commitment to volunteer service. The award was based on data from the 2012-13 academic year, during which more than 3,500 Springfield College students completed more than 480,000 hours of service to the Springfield community through volunteer work, service learning, internships, practica, fieldwork, and other activities.
“Students come to Springfield College with a desire to serve and to immerse themselves in academic and co-curricular programs that will allow them to make a difference in their community,” said President Mary-Beth Cooper. “The college offers a wealth of meaningful service opportunities allowing students to develop as scholars and engaged citizens. Our students work extremely hard throughout the academic year to be part of our community. This recognition is a reflection of their continued dedication to service.”
The Springfield College AmeriCorps Program and the Partners Program remain two of the college’s constant and long-standing community outreach programs, which, combined, are responsible for the contribution of more than 50,000 hours of service. Springfield College AmeriCorps members provided more than 44,000 hours of service to 479 at-risk students from pre-kindergarten through grade 12 at Square One, Head Start, and Springfield Public Schools during the 2012-13 academic year. As part of the Student Success Corps, now known as the School Turnaround Initiative, AmeriCorps academic coaches and school counselors provided interventions and support for students struggling with low attendance, course failure in English and math, and behavioral, social, and emotional issues.
AmeriCorps literacy tutors implemented the nationally recognized Minnesota Reading Corps pre-K model in an effort to ensure that all children enter kindergarten ready to learn how to read. This pilot of the Minnesota Reading Corps evolved into the Massachusetts Reading Corps, which is currently providing early-literacy support to more than 400 pre-kindergarten students in Springfield.
“The goal of the AmeriCorps programs at Springfield College is to give students the support they need to remain on the path to high-school graduation,” said Springfield College AmeriCorps Program Director Shannon Langone. “Our programs are based on research-driven models and interventions that have been shown to effectively target risk factors for dropping out. By using what we know works in a very intentional way, we can have a measurable impact on the academic achievement of youth in Springfield.”
The AmeriCorps programs at Springfield College are funded in part by the Corp. for National and Community Service, the Massachusetts Service Alliance, the Funder Collaborative for Reading Success, and the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation.
For more than 20 years, the Springfield College Partners Program has paired college mentors with Springfield Public School students from both the Brookings and DeBerry elementary schools. Since the program’s inception, more than 600 elementary-school students have been mentored. Previous research indicates that youth who participate in the program report better grades, improved attendance, increased confidence about themselves and the future, and fewer behavioral issues in and out of school.
In total, more than 760 higher-education institutions were named to this year’s honor roll. From that group, four schools were selected to receive the President’s Award in one of four categories — general community service, economic opportunity, education, or interfaith community service. An additional 16 schools are named as finalists for the President’s Award, the highest federal honor a higher-education institution can receive for its commitment to community service. A complete list of this year’s winners can be found at www.nationalservice.gov/honorroll.
AMHERST — Building on the Patrick administration’s historic commitment to strengthening the advanced-manufacturing industry in Massachusetts, Housing and Economic Development Secretary Greg Bialecki on Monday joined Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Rachel Kaprielian and State Senate Majority Leader Stan Rosenberg to announce nearly $2 million in funding to support manufacturing workforce training across the Commonwealth. The announcement was made at the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) Pioneer Valley Summit, held at UMass Amherst.
“I am proud of the work the AMC has accomplished over the years, creating opportunities for workers with a range of skill levels that will strengthen our economy for years to come,” said Bialecki. “Collaborative efforts like this are a critical reason why Massachusetts is leading the nation in growing a 21st-century advanced-manufacturing sector.”
Nearly $1.5 million of the total funding was awarded through the Advanced Manufacturing Pipeline Training Grants Program to support five regional workforce-investment boards throughout Massachusetts. This funding will help recruit and train approximately 280 unemployed or underemployed participants for careers in advanced manufacturing. The grants program is a cross-secretariat initiative between the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development and the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. Two Western Mass. organizations are among those receiving funding:
• The Hampden Regional Employment Board received $219,960 to conduct the Advanced Manufacturing Training Program, in partnership with the Western Mass. Chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Assoc. The Hampden Regional Employment Board will contract with local community colleges, part-time instructors from two vocational technical high schools, and an advanced-manufacturing company to train unemployed or underemployed adults of Hampden County.
• The Franklin/Hampshire Regional Employment Board received $276,705 to continue collaboration with employers from across the region, as well as community partners such as Greenfield Community College (GCC), the two area vocational-technical schools, and two adult-education sites, to enable the Regional Employment Board and GCC to offer three additional cycles of entry-level precision-machine training over the next two years in Franklin County. This will expand it from 220 hours to 300 hours and add skill building in the areas of blueprint reading, metrology, grinding, and lean manufacturing.
“The quick turnaround in awarding these grants reflects the urgency the Patrick Administration has adopted in scaling up these pipelines to help fill current job openings in advanced manufacturing all over the state,” said Kaprielian. “These awards will allow the grantees to build upon their proven successes and their capacity to work collaboratively through industry partnerships to increase the number of seats in their existing pipelines.”
Through a separate grant program, the Industry Training Capital Equipment grant program, also aimed at supporting the manufacturing industry in Massachusetts, Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School in Northampton was awarded $400,000 to rebuild its precision-manufacturing training program. With the support of more than 25 regional manufacturing and workforce leaders in Hampshire County, the rebuilt training program will be a site for daytime students and evening adult learners, in partnership with the Franklin-Hampshire Regional Employment Board.
HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Hospital Auxiliary Assoc. is continuing its annual tradition of remembrance with its Tree of Love, which will be located in the lobby of Holyoke Medical Center at 575 Beech St. through the first week of January.
The auxiliary invites the public to remember loved ones who have died and/or to honor special people by purchasing ornaments to be displayed on the tree. A specially printed card will be placed on the tree to acknowledge each gift. Ornaments may also be purchased through Dec. 21. Also, next to the tree in the lobby is a book stand with the 2014 Tree of Love index, containing, in alphabetical order, a page for everyone whose name is on the tree.
Between 800 and 1,000 people participate in the Tree of Love every year, and it has become an important tradition for many since the first tree stood in the HMC lobby 27 years ago, said Holyoke Hospital Auxiliary Assoc. President Merle Ryan. “Christmas is a time to remember special people, those who are with us and those who have passed. And it’s a way to decorate the tree in memory and in honor of these people, at a time of year when we’re often missing them, and wanting to honor those who are special to us.”
The donation for remembering or honoring someone special is $8 per person or $30 for five people. The proceeds of this auxiliary fund-raiser will be used toward the purchase of new wheelchairs for Holyoke Medical Center. Co-chairs of this event are Peg Wallace and Mary Carol LaMagdelaine. For a flyer, ornament form, or more information, contact Deborah Long-Smith of HMC Volunteer Services at (413) 534-2568.
WILLIAMSTOWN — The Williams Inn has announced several appointments to its leadership team.
Greta Kipp, the inn’s new general manager, arrives from Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vt., where she held several positions, including director of rooms, director of revenue management, and director of owner relations. She is a veteran of the U.S. Army and completed a five-year enlistment as an Arabic translator. She earned undergraduate and graduate degrees from Old Dominion University.
Pam Knisley, the inn’s new sales manager, comes from the Wheatleigh Hotel in Lenox. Prior to her position at Wheatleigh, she was general manager/innkeeper at the Inn at Richmond and owner of I’ll Do It! Concierge Service in Pittsfield. She graduated from State University of New York at Fredonia.
Tim Hajduk, the new food and beverage manager, joins the Williams Inn from the Embassy Suites in Waltham, where he spent five years as food and beverage manager. He began his hospitality career at Blantyre in Lenox, after which he spent 11 years in food and beverage management positions. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire.
Other staffing changes within the inn include the appointments of Roger Gavin to maintenance manager and Adam Brassard to executive chef, and the promotions of Janine Velluci to catering sales manager and Jane Schnopps to guest services manager.
“The Williams Inn team has really come together, and we’re looking forward to providing the best possible hospitality experience for those traveling to Williamstown and for our local friends and neighbors,” said Bruce Finn, chief operating officer of Main Street Hospitality Group, which manages the property.
SPRINGFIELD — United Personnel announced that Dave Malloy has been named client services manager. Malloy will plan, direct, and implement business development, account retention, community relations, and marketing activities for United Personnel’s Hampden County and Northern Conn. territory. He will also assist with recruiting and placement activities within the organization.
“We are very excited to have Dave on our team at United Personnel,” said Tricia Canavan, president of United Personnel. “We feel Dave’s background in business operations and development will help us continue to bring the highest level of support to both our clients and candidates.”
Malloy has built his operations experience in production of electronic components serving customers such as American Power Conversion. He also has coordinated retail manufacturing and distribution for various clients, including Walmart. Most recently, Malloy leveraged these operational experiences to provide business development in healthcare services. He holds master’s degrees in communication and business administration from Bay Path University.
WESTERN MASS. — Today is the final day to nominate an individual or group for BusinessWest’s Difference Makers program. Nominations must be received by the end of the business day (5 p.m.). Nominations can be completed online by visiting www.businesswest.com and moving to ‘Our Events.’
Difference Makers was launched in 2009 as a way to recognize the contributions of agencies and individuals who are contributing to quality of life in this region. Recipients have ranged from college presidents to state police officers; from the leaders of several nonprofit groups to economic-development leaders. Previous honorees are:
2009:
• Doug Bowen, president and CEO of PeoplesBank;
• Kate Kane, managing director of the Springfield office of Northwestern Mutual Financial/The Zuzolo Group;
• Susan Jaye-Kaplan, founder of GoFIT and co-founder of Link to Libraries;
• William Ward, executive director of the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County; and
• The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield
2010:
• The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation;
• Ellen Freyman, attorney and shareholder at Shatz Schwartz and Fentin, P.C.;
• James Goodwin, president and CEO of the Center for Human Development;
• Carol Katz, CEO of the Loomis Communities; and
• UMass Amherst and its chancellor, Robert Holub
2011
• Tim Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission;
• Lucia Giuggio Carvalho, founder of Rays of Hope;
• Don Kozera, president of Human Resources Unlimited;
• Robert Perry, retired partner/consultant at Meyers Brothers Kalicka; and
• Anthony Scott, police chief of Holyoke
2012
• Charlie and Donald D’Amour, president/COO and chairman/CEO of Big Y Foods;
• William Messner, president of Holyoke Community College;
• Majors Tom and Linda-Jo Perks, officers of the Springfield Corps of the Salvation Army;
• Bob Schwarz, executive vice president of Peter Pan Bus Lines; and
• The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts
2013
• Michael Cutone, John Barbieri, and Thomas Sarrouf, organizers of Springfield’s C3 Policing program;
• John Downing, president of Soldier On;
• Bruce Landon, president and general manager of the Springfield Falcons;
• The Sisters of Providence; and
• Jim Vinick, senior vice president of investments at Moors & Cabot Inc.
2014
• The Gray House
• Colleen Loveless, executive director of the Springfield chapter of Rebuilding Together;
• The Melha Shriners
• Paula Moore, founder of YSET Academy and a teacher at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Training Academy; and
• Michael Moriarty, attorney, director of Olde Holyoke Development Corp., and supporter of childhood literacy programs
EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton Savings Bank, the wholly-owned subsidiary of ESB Bancorp Inc., announced that ESB Bancorp has signed a definitive merger agreement with Citizens National Bancorp Inc., under which ESB Bancorp will acquire Citizens National Bancorp in a transaction valued at approximately $51.3 million.
Citizens National Bancorp is the holding company for the Citizens National Bank, a $333 million bank located in Putnam, Conn. Following completion of the merger of ESB Bancorp and Citizens National Bancorp, the Citizens National Bank will merge with and into Easthampton Savings Bank.
The transaction will expand Easthampton Savings Bank’s market presence into the Northeast Conn. and Central Mass. markets. Following completion of the transaction, ESB Bancorp will have consolidated assets of more than $1.3 billion and a branch network of 15 full-service offices. The transaction is expected to be accretive to ESB Bancorp’s earnings in the first year of combined operations. Easthampton Savings Bank will continue to be well-capitalized under applicable regulatory requirements following completion of the transaction.
Matthew Sosik, president and CEO of Easthampton Savings Bank, stated, “we are very pleased to announce our acquisition of Citizens National Bank and to welcome the Citizens employees and customers into the ESB family. We are very familiar with Citizen’s market area, and we are excited to grow through an expansion into the Northeast Connecticut and Central Massachusetts markets. Given Citizens’ excellent reputation and franchise value in their market area, we expect to operate Citizens’ five branches under the Citizens trade name after the transaction is completed. That structure will allow us to remain acutely attentive to our existing customers and communities in the Pioneer Valley, while allowing us to expand and further develop Citizens’ market share.”
Added David Conrad, president and CEO of the Citizens National Bank, “we believe this truly excellent opportunity to join ESB, a top-performing mutual bank, will serve our customers, employees, and communities very well.”
The merger is subject to certain conditions, including the approval of the holders of at least a majority of the shares of Citizens National Bancorp and receipt of customary regulatory approvals. The merger is expected to be completed early in the third quarter of 2015.
HOLYOKE — Mother Mary’s Thrift Store at 364 High St., Holyoke, announced its Happy Holidays Christmas sale, to run from Tuesday, Dec. 16 through Tuesday, Dec. 23. Household items, clothing, and furniture are on sale for 20% off.
Mother Mary’s is a fund-raising project of Providence Ministries for the Needy, selling high-quality pre-owned housewares, furniture, and clothing at reasonable cost to benefit the Ministries’ mission to feed, clothe, and shelter the needy of Greater Holyoke. Store hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, contact Raymond at (413) 536-5200 or [email protected].
LUDLOW — PV Financial Group announce that Lou Curto, one of its top retirement-plan advisors, has earned the specialized designation of professional plan consultant (PPC).
Recent regulatory changes to the qualified-retirement-plan industry have made navigating through the process more difficult for business owners. These regulations have sparked an urgency to ensure that retirement-plan service professionals have specialized training and the resources to help sponsors meet their fiduciary and prudent-practice obligations. The PPC designation was developed by Financial Service Standards to help professionals who specialize in this increasingly regulated niche. Curto sat for a two-day training class, passed a comprehensive final exam, signed off on the FSS Code of Ethics, and committed to ongoing training in retirement-plan management.
Curto specializes in working with business owners to help develop retirement-savings-plan options that help ensure maximum benefit to employees. Recognizing that “many individuals do not participate in retirement planning because there is a lack of awareness and understanding around the process,” he utilizes a common-sense approach when working with business owners and employees, increasing plan participation and maximizing individual savings plans.
“We are proud and excited that Lou Curto has received this distinguished designation,” said PV Financial Group Managing Partner Edward Sokolowski. “It requires industry experience and a dedication to raising the service standards in the qualified-plan industry. PV Financial Group is proud to have the designation represented by a member of our firm.”
Ludlow-based PV Financial Group has been providing individuals and organizations with financial guidance since 2002. For more information, visit www.pvfinancial.com.
MONSON — For the fifth year in a row, Monson Savings Bank is asking the community to help plan the bank’s community-giving activities by inviting people to vote for the organizations they would like the bank to support during 2015.
“Every year, we donate more than $100,000 to organizations doing important work in the communities we serve,” said Steve Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank. “For several years now, we’ve been asking the community for input on which groups they’d like us to support, and we’ve been so pleased by how many people participate.”
To cast their vote, people can go to monsonsavings.com/in-the-community.html. On that page, they can see a list of organizations that the bank has already supported in 2014 and provide up to three names of groups they’d like the bank to donate to in 2015. The only requirement is that the organizations be nonprofit and provide services in Hampden, Monson, Wilbraham, or Ware. The voting ends at 3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 9. The bank pledges to support the top 10 vote getters and will announce who they are by the end of January.
SPRINGFIELD — Western Mass.-based nonprofits sent out the call, and their supporters gave — and gave and gave. In 24 hours, 14,189 donors made 28,824 gifts for a grand total of $2,676,595 at the third annual Valley Gives Day.
In addition, a prize pool of $225,000 was distributed among several nonprofits. Organizations in three budget categories competed for bonus grants presented to the top three slots for ‘most unique donors.’ First prize was $5,000, second was $4,000, and third was $3,000. In keeping with a In addition, nonprofits in 12th place in each category were awarded a $1,200 bonus grant.
In the category of large nonprofits, the winners were New England Public Radio (839 unique donors), Dakin Humane Society (739 donors), and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts (696 donors). Among medium-sized nonprofits, the winners were New Spirit Inc. (641 donors), Whole Children (632 donors), and Pioneer Valley Symphony (384 donors). Among small nonprofits, the winners were Friends of the Hilltown Cooperative Charter School Inc. (437 donors), Grow Food Northampton (342 donors), and the Jackson Street School PTO Inc. (299 donors).
Other awards were given in the category of money raised by first-time participants, with first place going to the Jackson Street School PTO Inc. with $24,356. Also, hourly beginning at 9 a.m., a randomly selected donation to a participating nonprofit had a $1,000 golden ticket added to the total. Throughout the day, there were five bonus power hours (10 a.m., noon, 4 p.m., 6 p.m., and 9 p.m.) when a total of $22,000 golden tickets were added to randomly selected donations.
The full list of nonprofits and their totals raised is available at www.valleygivesday.org.
HARTFORD — Whittlesey & Hadley, P.C., one of the area’s largest independent accounting firms, announced that David Greenblatt, CPA, has been appointed manager, joining the firm’s healthcare practice.
Greenblatt has 15 years of experience in public accounting with a specialty in healthcare, which will augment the firm’s current healthcare team that provides assurance, compliance, tax, and advisory services to Connecticut- and Massachusetts-based physicians, specialists, dentists, and related entities. Most recently, he was a manager at a regional accounting firm in Boston. Greenblatt received a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Bryant University. He is a member of the Medical Group Management Assoc. and the Healthcare Financial Management Assoc.
Drew Andrews, managing partner at Whittlesey & Hadley, said that “David’s accomplishments as a practitioner of accounting in the area of healthcare and advisory services to medical practices will benefit our clients and the firm’s position as the leading provider of professional services to medical practices in the region. We are proud to add David to our team of professionals.”
SPRINGFIELD — In celebration of International Education Week (IEW), Western New England University recently hosted a week-long series of events called Passport to the World.
IEW is a joint initiative of the U.S. Department of State and the U.S. Department of Education with a mission to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the U.S. Students who participate in education abroad gain the knowledge, skills, and self-reliance that are needed to compete in today’s globalized economy. Through Passport to the World, the university focused awareness of the many education-abroad opportunities provided to students and faculty, and provided assistance to students to obtain a U.S. passport.
“Studies show that employers are increasingly interested in international experience among job applicants,” said International Student Coordinator Katie Ahlman. “One of the first steps to studying abroad or gaining international work experience is obtaining a valid passport.”
The week’s activities included a Study Abroad Showcase and an International Student Fair, which included information on how to study or intern abroad. Discussion sessions included global recycling and transgender awareness. Students had the opportunity to attend henna and hijab-wearing demonstrations; view Argentinian, French, and Iranian movies; and learn to pronounce their name in Mandarin, Persian, Portuguese, and French.
“International experiences connect students, scholars, and emerging young leaders from around the world, enabling them to collaborate and tackle today’s shared challenges like climate change, global health, and sustainable energy,” said Richard Keating, vice president for Strategic Initiatives and the Centers for Internationalization and Academic Initiatives at WNEU. “By welcoming international students who are attracted to the excellence and diversity of U.S. higher-education institutions, and by encouraging U.S. students to participate in education abroad, we create a more secure and stable world.”
LOWELL — Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Rachel Kaprielian awarded more than $12.2 million in the latest round of grants to help train healthcare providers to improve patient service and reduce healthcare costs. The funding goes to 53 organizations across the state as part of the Patrick administration’s effort to encourage economic growth by supporting innovation in the Commonwealth’s healthcare industry.
“These grants will help ensure healthcare providers succeed in implementing new models of service delivery and adapt to new payment structures,” said Kaprielian. “By providing resources to develop new and innovative training and education programs, Massachusetts will continue to solidify its place as a leader in healthcare modernization and advances.”
In 2012, Gov. Deval Patrick signed a law making Massachusetts the first state in the country to enact healthcare quality-improvement and cost-containment legislation. The act allocated $20 million to prepare the healthcare industry for the new demands and innovations called for in the legislation. Patrick announced the first round of grants in March, allowing businesses to assess their workforce and determine what skills and training they will need to change operations and deliver more efficient healthcare.
For many of this week’s grantees, the training activity ahead builds on that planning work. All the grantees have identified a set of operational changes that are driving their need for increased workforce skills. The training activity will support new models for coordinating care across professions, institutions, and settings; focus on patient-centered care, stronger patient engagement, and health education to promote health and wellness; and spur the integration of primary care and behavioral health.
In Western Mass., grants were awarded to Berkshire Health System ($249,286), Community Health Programs ($148,349), Baystate Medical Center ($249,682), Gandara Center ($250,000); Springfield Technical Community College ($156,338); and Carson Center for Human Services ($249,996).
SPRINGFIELD — Each year, the American Red Cross of Western Massachusetts hosts the Hometown Heroes Breakfast to honor local individuals and groups that have shown courage, kindness, and unselfish character when a friend, family member, or stranger faced a life-threatening situation, or who have had an extraordinary impact on his or her community. Next year’s breakfast will take place on Thursday, March 19 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield.
Members of the community are invited to nominate local heroes for consideration by sharing their story. Honorees will be selected by a committee of individuals from the community, including former Hometown Heroes. Submissions for nominations are welcome from throughout Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. Nomination forms and criteria are available on the chapter website at www.redcross.org/news/event/ma/springfield. Nominations must be submitted online or postmarked no later than Dec. 31.
This year’s event is being sponsored by Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, Channel 22 News, the MassMutual Center, and OMG Inc. Additional sponsorship opportunities are still available for this event. Hometown Heroes is the chapter’s largest annual fund-raising event and supports the ability to provide the resources necessary to serve its communities.
The American Red Cross of Western Massachusetts serves Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties, assisting families affected by disaster, helping military families relay emergency communications to their deployed loved ones, and providing life-saving training programs. For further information, contact Gina Czerwinski at (413) 233-1035 or [email protected].
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Chamber of Commerce, an affiliate of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield, announced Wednesday that it has reviewed the city of Springfield’s proposal for property taxes for fiscal year 2015 and has issued a position paper opposing the rates recommended.
“The Springfield Chamber, on behalf of its more than 500 members, has consistently advocated for a reduction in the heavy tax burden that has been shifted from the residential community onto the backs of the business community,” said chamber President Jeffrey Ciuffreda. “While the recommended tax rates being proposed by Mayor [Domenic] Sarno reduces both classes of rates, his proposal actually increases the burden again onto the business community, and that is something the chamber cannot accept.”
The chamber has a stated, long-term goal of reducing the heavy burden of taxes that has been shifted onto the business community, especially over the past 10 years, to a level that is more reasonable and one that has been used in past years, it said in its position paper. “In 2004, the business classification of properties paid 12.93% more in property taxes than its percentage of overall value. The chamber refers to this increased business-tax burden as the ‘gap.’ Businesses made up 26.86% of all property values in Springfield, yet paid 39.79% of all the property taxes, and used less municipal services. The gap provides for the business community to pay additional taxes so that the residential tax rate can remain lower. Since 2004, the chamber has consistently advocated for a reduction in the gap. Despite these efforts, that gap has seen a steady increase, to its current level of 15.37%.”
Ciuffreda said that, while the chamber firmly believes that reducing this burden will spur economic growth, it recognizes the current economic fragility of the city and, for fiscal year 2015, is simply recommending a freeze in the extra level of taxes borne by the business sector. The chamber recommends that the difference between what the business community pays and the percent of value it comprises overall remain at the current level of 15.37%.
Under the chamber’s recommendation, all classes of property taxes would be reduced (to $19.68 for residents and $38.72 for businesses), but, more importantly, the gap between the business tax rate and the residential tax rate would remain level. Under the mayor’s proposal, the tax rates would be reduced, but the business sector would pay an even higher rate of taxes, increasing the gap to 15.57%, again shifting more of an already burdensome tax level onto the business community, the chamber argues.
PIONEER VALLEY — Today, 463 nonprofit organizations serving Western Mass. — more than 100 above the total in 2013 — will be raising money during Valley Gives, an annual, 24-hour e-philanthropy event. This year, the event has a goal of attracting 20,000 donors.
To help promote participation, Valley Gives organizers will have mobile teams appearing around Western Mass., spreading information about Valley Gives as well as using iPads to help passersby make gifts to their favorite nonprofits. The giving stations will be found at the following times and places:
• 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tower Square, 1500 Main St., Springfield
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Balise, 1399 Riverdale St., West Springfield
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Balise, 1979 Boston Road, Wilbraham
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Greenfield Community College: Street Level, 270 Main St., Greenfield
• 3:30-6:30 p.m., Big Y, 503 Memorial Ave., West Springfield
• 3:30-6:30 p.m., Big Y, 237 Mohawk Trail, Greenfield
• 3:30-6:30 p.m., Big Y, 136 North King St., Northampton
At the end of the day, a countdown-to-midnight celebration is being hosted at Luxe Burger Bar, 1200 West Columbus Ave., Springfield. The event, beginning at 7 p.m., is open to participating nonprofits and donors and is being organized by the Terrace Group.
A complete list of participants is available at valleygives.wordpress.com/2014-participants. Gifts can be made today at www.valleygivesday.org.
Valley Gives is spearheaded and hosted by the Community Foundation of Western Mass. Joining this effort as partners are eight of the leading funding organizations serving Western Mass., including the Jewish Federation of Western Mass., the Jewish Endowment Foundation, the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, United Way of Hampshire County, United Way of Franklin County, United Way of Pioneer Valley, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, and the Beveridge Family Foundation.
Valley Gives is supported by presenting sponsor Balise Auto and featured sponsors Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, Big Y, UBS Keady Foard Montemagni Wealth Management Group, and Easthampton Savings Bank. Underwriters include Paragus Strategic IT and Greenfield Cooperative Bank. Partners include Peter Pan, United Personnel, Andrew & Associates, as well as numerous individual donors.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) forecasts a steady and ongoing economic recovery for the U.S. commercial and industrial construction industries in 2015. The reasonably brisk industry recovery in 2014 should continue in 2015, with momentum especially growing in segments closely related to the current American energy and industrial production resurgence.
“ABC forecasts non-residential construction spending will expand by roughly 7.5% next year,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “The segments that will experience the largest growth in construction spending in 2015 include power (e.g. natural-gas-related construction), lodging (leisure and business spending), office space (professional-services employment creation), and manufacturing (rebounding industrial production). The public sector will see far more sluggish growth in construction spending; however, this fits a multi-year pattern with private non-residential spending exceeding public non-residential spending by 28% in 2014, up from 15.6% in 2013.”
AMHERST — New England Environmental Inc. (NEE) announced that Matthew Nowak has joined the company as a senior scientist and project manager.
Nowak is a professional wetland scientist (PWS) and is OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certified. He has a master’s degree in plant and soil science and a bachelor’s degree in environmental science from UMass. Nowak has more than 14 years of environmental-consulting experience with both public- and private-sector clients. He is particularly familiar with project management for linear utilities. His experience includes wetland and ecological field surveys; wetland restoration and mitigation; erosion and sediment control; and federal, state, and local environmental permitting.
NEE is a full-service environmental-consulting firm with nearly three decades of extensive, in-house expertise in environmental assessment, restoration, and management. Nowak joins NEE’s 30 other professional staff.
HOLYOKE — Dr. Maria Russo-Appel has been appointed to the position of chief medical officer of Providence Behavioral Health Hospital (PBHH). In this role, she is responsible for the medical leadership at PBHH, including the coordination of all patient care and safety, quality assessment, risk management, patient satisfaction, and improvement in healthcare programs. She also serves as a liaison between the medical staff and administration at PBHH.
Russo-Appel’s appointment at PBHH marks her return to the Sisters of Providence Health System, where she served as medical director for Medical Psychiatry at Mercy Medical Center from 2003-07. Most recently, she served as chief medical officer for CleanSlate Addiction Treatment Centers in Northampton.
Board-certified in adult psychiatry, Russo-Appel has a special interest in women’s issues in psychiatry, as well as co-morbid medical and psychiatric illnesses. She is a graduate of Mount Sinai School of Medicine of New York University. She completed her residency at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, where she also completed her fellowship in Administrative Psychiatry.
“We are pleased to welcome Dr. Russo-Appel back to the Sisters of Providence Health System,” said Dr. Scott Wolf, senior vice president of Medical Affairs, chief medical officer, and chief operating officer of Mercy Medical Center. “She is an outstanding physician with extensive clinical experience in both inpatient and outpatient behavioral health services. She also demonstrates enthusiasm and warmth in her interactions with patients and staff, and these qualities will serve her well in this important leadership role at Providence Behavioral Health Hospital.”
Added Russo-Appel, “it is truly an honor to be named the chief medical officer at Providence Behavioral Health Hospital, which has amassed a team of profoundly talented staff prepared to enact the newest models for excellence in mental-health care. Together, our overall goal is to create a continuum of healthcare which enhances ease of access for both physical and emotional care.”
CHICOPEE — The Economic Development Council of Western Mass. voiced its concerns Tuesday regarding the rising costs of natural gas and electricity in the region.
“More expensive energy affects all of us negatively. All of us need to be concerned. Individuals face a reduction of disposable income and increased hardship,” the agency said in a prepared statement. “Businesses face reduced competiveness that threatens job growth and retention. Municipalities face increased energy costs while facing decreasing revenues. Hospitals and higher-education institutions must divert more resources to energy purchases, thus diverting resources from their core missions. Shrinking business and consumer spending reduces investments in those things that define quality of life in Western Massachusetts.”
Through a series of meetings and discussions with entities familiar with the issues, the EDC infrastructure committee released the following findings:
• Recent and future closings of oil- and coal-fired plants have boosted, and will continue to increase, Massachusetts’ dependency on natural gas for electric power generation. Nearly 50% of all electricity in Massachusetts is generated by natural gas, and that proportion is rising. These conditions, when combined with inadequate supplies of natural gas, are resulting in dramatically increased power costs during the winter.
• Gas companies serving this region are reaching the limits of their capacity to serve new customers. Berkshire Gas will stop adding customers in Greenfield at the end of 2014, and in Amherst in 2016. Columbia Gas is reaching the end of its capacity to serve Northampton and Easthampton. It could serve 10,000 more customers in the region if it had additional capacity. The inability to serve new customers will negatively affect economic growth in the region.
• Kinder Morgan is proposing a pipeline-extension project through Northern Mass. that will increase natural-gas supply to Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampshire counties as well as Eastern Mass.
• NU/Spectra proposes an expansion of the Algonquin Pipeline that would increase natural-gas supplies available to the Springfield area and Eastern Mass.
• Several New England states have been working to bring electricity generated by Hydro Quebec to the region.
EDC Infrastructure Committee Chair Paul Nicolai summarized the committee’s work, suggesting that “supplying cost-effective, responsibly clean energy for our people and businesses is a complicated problem requiring balanced approaches and moderate thinking. EDC has struck that balance and encourages policymakers to do so as well.”
At a recent meeting, the EDC board of directors approved a resolution supporting the following actions, which, if implemented, will help to provide an adequate, stable supply of energy at competitive prices:
• Increase natural-gas supply by permitting both natural-gas pipeline-expansion projects proposed for the region and state;
• Increase the sources of power generation by enabling the purchase of hydro-generated electricity from the north;
• Continue support of conservation and renewable-energy technologies; and
• Encourage a regulatory environment that promotes market stability and competitive outcomes.
SPRINGFIELD — The social-media marketing work of James Garvey, social media analyst at Garvey Communication Associates Inc., was recognized with a Top 10 Social Media Standouts award at the recent 2014 Lift Brands Corporate Conference in Las Vegas.
Garvey has been working with a regional Snap Fitness gym and fitness center for the last six months and devised a plan to harvest relevant content and disseminate it according to a defined editorial calendar. The center reported that the new social-media marketing plan has both grown online fans and helped achieve a 25% sales increase.
Garvey is a member of the New England Financial Marketing Assoc., the Advertising Club of Western Mass., an associate member of the Public Relations Society of America, and a registered mentor with Valley Venture Mentors.
PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Bank has been recognized by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society for its total corporate impact for participating in the Light the Night Walk fund-raiser in Albany, N.Y. Berkshire Bank raised $23,091 for the Light the Night Walk campaign. Berkshire’s volunteer team was led by Tami Gunsch, senior vice president, Retail Banking, who personally raised $5,159.02 and was recognized as the top individual fund-raiser of 2014.
The Light the Night Executive Challenge is a national fund-raising competition among participating corporate executives in the Greater Albany region to raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The challenge ran for six weeks, from Sept. 3 to Oct. 8. Berkshire Bank was an integral part of the 1,100-plus individuals and businesses who participated in the Walk to End Cancer at the Albany chapter’s 16th annual Light the Night Walk at Siena College on Oct. 11.
Berkshire Bank will be recognized at the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s awards ceremony on Thursday, Feb. 12 at Revolution Hall in Troy, N.Y. During the event, Berkshire will be recognized as the top corporate supporter for having raised $13,000 in corporate-sponsorship funds, and as a ‘mega plus team’ for having raised more than $10,000 in team funds.
SPRINGFIELD — Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., a labor and employment law firm serving the Greater Springfield area, announced an upcoming briefing, to be co-hosted by the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE), focused on the new Massachusetts sick-leave initiative. The event will take place Thursday, Dec. 18, at the Berkshire Bank Community Room in Pittsfield from 8 to 10 a.m.
The sold-out program demonstrates an extraordinary need to educate business owners and human-resource professionals about the change in law that will go into effect on July 1. Specifically, Massachusetts voters backed paid sick leave, which was a question on the ballot this past November. The law entitles employees to earn up to 40 hours of paid sick time each year if they work for businesses with 11 or more employees; workers at smaller companies may earn 40 hours of annual unpaid sick time.
“Very rarely does an event sell out so quickly,” said Mark Adams, director of human resource solutions for EANE. “It’s a big indicator that this law will have a major impact on business here in Massachusetts. We like to stay on top of the most recent laws governing the workplace and are thrilled to see so many professionals learning more through EANE programs.”
Attorney Amelia Holstrom of Skoler Abbott will present the briefing as part of the firm’s partnership with EANE. She will provide answers to the most common questions about the new law, including:
• What does the law require?
• How is sick time earned?
• When do employees begin to earn this time?
• When can employees begin to use this time?
• What happens to unused sick time left over at the end of a calendar year?
• What can sick time be used for?
• Must employees give advanced notice before taking sick time?
• Can an employer require documentation when an employee uses sick time earned under this law?
• Does unused sick time need to be paid out when an employee leaves a company?
• Are there notice requirements?
• What are the penalties for non-compliance?
“At Skoler, Abbott & Presser, we specialize in these niche matters of employment and represent only the needs of employers,” said Holstrom. “This briefing is one of many resources we offer for business owners and human-resource professionals, and we are available to help employers navigate through the changes needed in order to stay in compliance with the law. Although the changes will not go into effect until July 1, the new year is a great time to re-evaluate sick-time policies and update professional protocol. We encourage all employers to become educated on the new law and make any necessary changes.”
Additional EANE forums for education about the new sick-time-leave initiative will be considered after further guidance is issued by the state Attorney General’s Office. The attorney general is expected to announce interpretations of the law between now and when it takes effect.
LENOX — The marketing and creative agency Winstanley Partners, based in Lenox, announced that Lesia Gribbin has been appointed to the position of graphic designer.
Gribbin holds a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the College of St. Rose in Albany, N.Y.; studied graphic design at Studio Art Centers International in Florence, Italy; and maintains membership with the New York City chapter of AIGA, the professional association for design.
Following stints at the New York Post, global design consultancy Dragon Rouge, and Delmar, N.Y.-based advertising agency 2Communiqué, Gribbin brings experience in visual communication, concept development, and branding to her new position, in addition to proficiency in digital design as well as lithography, photography, illustration, and more.
SPRINGFIELD — Leadership Pioneer Valley (LPV) is offering offering a new series of bite-sized training sessions beginning in January to enhance leadership skills and understanding of the region. The sessions are open to LPV alumni and other emerging and established leaders.
LPV recognizes that leadership is a lifelong process, and the Leadership 2.0 series features six two- to three-hour training sessions on a variety of topics with the goal of deepening leadership skills, creating new and diverse connections, and making an impact on the region. The sessions are open to LPV alumni who want to continue their learning or others who are unable to be part of LPV’s 10-month program. The intent is to diversify Leadership Pioneer Valley’s offerings and create new opportunities.
Workshop topics include “Effective Communications,” “Becoming a Superhero Board Member,” and a field experience to explore the Agawam area. The series sponsors include Sisters of Providence Health System/Mercy Hospital, Appleton Corp., the Beveridge Family Foundation, and the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts.
HADLEY — Hampshire Mall announced that the West Mass Brass band will be performing its holiday-themed compositions on Thursday, Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. near the food court.
West Mass Brass is a British-style, brass and percussion band that was formed in September 2014. Organized and conducted by Kenneth McCance of Millers Falls, the group consists of music majors and teachers, brass-band enthusiasts, and talented high-school students. The mission of the band is expose the British-style brass-band experience to others to enjoy and perpetuate, and to provide a challenging opportunity for capable individuals to play and perform.
WESTFIELD — Noble Hospital recently received a donation of $8,600 from Luso Federal Credit Union, to go toward helping women at the hospital’s Center for Comprehensive Breast Health.
During the month of October, Luso’s employees held a team competition to see which employee team could raise the most money for breast-cancer research through various fund-raising activities. As a result, this year’s donation from employees and customers represents a 230% increase over the prior year’s donation.
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Preservation Trust (SPT) announced the sale of 77 Maple St. to DevelopSpringfield for $35,000. The property, built in 1832 as the Springfield Female Seminary, had fallen into a state of disrepair and near-collapse in 2009 when the trust intervened to save the property from demolition.
“Today’s sale represents the completion of the trust’s important preservation work and the transfer of the property to a responsible owner who is doing great things next door at 83 Maple St.,” said Don Courtemanche, president of the Springfield Preservation Trust. “We believe having these properties together under single ownership will ultimately be in both properties’ best interests in terms of preservation and marketability.”
Added Jay Minkarah, president and CEO of DevelopSpringfield, “we are thrilled to add this wonderful property to our portfolio. It makes so much sense for us to include the rehabilitation of this building in our plans for rehabilitation of the Ansel Phelps House at 83 Maple St.”
Since purchasing the property, SPT has made significant structural repairs, including the critical rebuilding of a collapsed wall as well as foundation repairs, roof and trim repairs, and the repair and restoration of 24 of the building’s large, historic windows. The project has been the beneficiary of a great deal of public support, including contributions from the Springfield CDBG Program, the Massachusetts Historical Commission, the 1776 Foundation, MassMutual Financial, the Hampden Bank Foundation, Bob McCarroll, and a vast number of SPT members and friends through year-round SPT special events.
“We are an all-volunteer organization and could not have saved this building without the support of the community and funders,” said Courtemanche. “This truly was a community effort.”
In addition to the Ansel Phelps House, DevelopSpringfield also owns a former carriage house and row of garages on an abutting parcel and an adjacent vacant lot that will provide parking, access, and green space to support both buildings. For information on leasing opportunities, contact Minkarah at (413) 209-8808 or [email protected].
PIONEER VALLEY — This year, 463 nonprofit organizations serving Western Mass. — more than 100 above the total in 2013 — will be raising money on Dec. 10 during Valley Gives, an annual, 24-hour e-philanthropy event.
This year, the event has a goal of attracting 20,000 donors. To help promote participation, Valley Gives organizers will have mobile teams appearing around Western Mass., spreading information about Valley Gives as well as using iPads to help passersby make gifts to their favorite nonprofits. The giving stations will be found at the following times and places:
• 8:30-10:30 a.m., Tower Square, 1500 Main St., Springfield
• 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tower Square, 1500 Main St., Springfield
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Balise, 1399 Riverdale St., West Springfield
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Balise, 1979 Boston Road, Wilbraham
• 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Greenfield Community College: Street Level, 270 Main St., Greenfield
• 3:30-6:30 p.m., Big Y, 503 Memorial Ave., West Springfield
• 3:30-6:30 p.m., Big Y, 237 Mohawk Trail, Greenfield
• 3:30-6:30 p.m., Big Y, 136 North King St., Northampton
At the end of the day, a countdown-to-midnight celebration is being hosted at Luxe Burger Bar, 1200 West Columbus Ave., Springfield. The event, beginning at 7 p.m., is open to participating nonprofits and donors and is being organized by the Terrace Group.
A complete list of participants is available at valleygives.wordpress.com/2014-participants. Gifts can be made on Dec. 10 at www.valleygivesday.org. Valley Gives is spearheaded and hosted by the Community Foundation of Western Mass. Joining this effort as partners are eight of the leading funding organizations serving Western Mass., including the Jewish Federation of Western Mass., the Jewish Endowment Foundation, the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, United Way of Hampshire County, United Way of Franklin County, United Way of Pioneer Valley, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, and the Beveridge Family Foundation.
Valley Gives is supported by presenting sponsor Balise Auto and featured sponsors Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, Big Y, UBS Keady Foard Montemagni Wealth Management Group, and Easthampton Savings Bank. Underwriters include Paragus Strategic IT and Greenfield Cooperative Bank. Partners include Peter Pan, United Personnel, Andrew & Associates, as well as numerous individual donors.
