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Charting Progress

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Architecture Sections
Demand for Architectural Services Grows in Private Sector

Siegfried Porth

Siegfried Porth says he has seen an upswing this year in additions, renovations, and new homes.

John Kuhn says the number of projects on his firm’s books has increased over the past year. However, “I don’t expect to go back to the glory days,” added the president of Kuhn Riddle Architects in Amherst, adding that clients today are more cost-conscious, conservative, and careful than they were prior to the economic downturn in 2008. “But, lately, business has been good.”
Walter Cudnohufsky of Walter Cudnohufsky Associates Inc. in Ashfield agrees, and describes the upturn in business as noticeable and positive. “We have a number of new residential projects,” he said, noting that the jobs are significant because work in real estate dried up for a long period of time. “Things began to pick up last year and have gotten better this year, and our work now also includes municipal and industrial projects.”
After weathering a difficult period, Tom Douglas of Thomas Douglas Architects Inc. in Northampton is also busy again. “Things started to even out about six months ago and really improve, and we have more work now than we can handle,” he said. “People are more willing to spend, and it seems as if access to money has become easier. It takes longer to get funding in place, but people are doing it. We’ve done design work for a lot of restaurants, and there has also been a significant increase in residential work.”
Siegfried Porth of Porth Architects in Easthampton concurred. “Right now I am straight out,” he said. “There has definitely been a big upturn in demand in the last year for new residences, additions, and reconstructions. And some of the jobs I have are major — $300,000 or $400,000 home additions. Ultimately, it’s cheaper to add on if you like where you live and have enough land.”
Bruce Coldham said that, although housing has always been his firm’s mainstay, jobs at local colleges have helped sustain the workflow over the last year. There have also been renovations of homes and office space, as well as projects requested by institutional investors who own multi-family dwellings and want to improve energy efficiency or stay in compliance with changing building codes.
“They are not all poster projects,” said the principal of Coldham & Hartman Architects in Amherst. “But business has been improving slowly and steadily, and we keep getting clients. Some of our colleagues were hit harder than we were, and many architects have had to move from one firm to another.”
Kuhn agrees. “Some people were hit worse than others,” he noted. “We felt the effects of the downturn, but not that severely. Work has been steady, but it’s very competitive.”

Staying Solvent
Indeed, the uptick in project volume hasn’t come about overnight. Several years ago, Porth said, there was so little work that 60% of the architects in Boston were laid off, and many firms went out of business.
And Douglas referred to 2009 and 2010 as “pretty lean times. We had to lay off one person and reduce some employees to part-time, but we had enough work to make ends meet. We were fortunate to get a few new jobs back then.”
One project, involving the renovation of three buildings in Greenfield, was made possible due to historic and new-markets tax credits. Others combined volunteer labor and paid work, including Northampton’s Academy of Music and Forbes Library. “I helped them raise money,” Douglas said.
His firm has also done much work at Smith College, although those jobs dwindled in 2009 and 2010. But the situation wasn’t disastrous, as Douglas used the time to renovate the building he purchased in 2009 that houses his business today.
In 2010, he was hired to design a renovation of the Garden Theater in downtown Greenfield. “Unfortunately, they were unable to pay the bulk of the fee,” Douglas recalled. “It was a very difficult year.”
The picture was similar across the board.
“It was like being on a rollercoaster,” said Douglas. “We would have an incredibly heavy workload for six months, then spend six months not knowing if we would get work. It was very, very difficult to project further than four to six months out.”
There were also an untold number of architects seeking employment. “They were willing to work part-time, and there was a lot of great talent out there. But it was very difficult to project how much work you would have,” Douglas said.
Cudnohufsky also suffered. He had to let several employees go and said it took “heroic efforts” to save his company.
Kuhn said the entire construction industry was hit, and in addition to the loss of any work in certain sectors, many projects were put on hold.

Tom Douglas

Tom Douglas says business is increasing, and so is the diversity of projects his firm is tackling.

Coldham said he is happy that he was able to retain employees, thanks to programs that allowed them to collect partial unemployment benefits. “It meant we could keep everyone until work resumed,” he said, adding that the extra time off allowed at least one employee to complete a graduate degree, and once things improved, he was able to add two people to his staff.
And although the outlook is brighter, many architects feel it is too early to project whether demand will continue to rise.
“But people are building and investing in their properties again,” Porth said. “Things didn’t look very good last Christmas, but this has ended up being a very fine year. Business has been slowly picking up, and right now I have 40 jobs in process.”
Douglas agreed. “The work is slowly starting to pick up,” he said, adding that his firm is now doing a lot of design work for restaurants and hotels.
Still, there are no guarantees. “There has been a definite improvement, but it is not meteoritic by any means,” Coldham said.
Kuhn concurred. “When people take a big hit, it takes years for confidence to come back,” he said.
“Everyone is a little more gun shy.”

Varied Workplace
Today, architectural services are being sought for diverse projects, another trend that bodes well for an industry that saw many sectors fall back or nearly shut down during the recession.
“We just bid on a renovation in North Adams for a group of railroad warehouses,” Douglas said. “We’ve also done three or four restaurant interiors in the past six months, and are wrapping up a new conference-center building in Hadley. We designed a new restaurant in Worcester, and are working on the renovation of a conference center for Smith College and a project for Northampton Arts Trust, which will include a new theater, performance space, and galleries in a building they are purchasing.”
Porth’s working portfolio includes projects in Holyoke and the conversion of an Easthampton tractor-trailer building into a multi-use structure. “We’re also converting an old warehouse into multi-use space and renovating a five-story factory building for commercial purposes,” he said, adding that the projects are large and include new walls, electrical, heating, and other improvements.
Porth is also the architect for the Eastworks Mill in Easthampton. “Half the residential units on the top floor are rented, and we’re starting phase 2,” he said, explaining that the units were designed as live/work spaces so entrepreneurs can operate home-based businesses in them.
Porth is also involved with ongoing projects for Open Square in Holyoke and has four major residential projects — additions and renovations — on the books as well.
“A lot of people are adding in-law apartments or family rooms, and we’re building a huge wine cellar in one home,” he said. “Plus, we just got work today on a new office building in Easthampton. There will be offices on the first floor and residential space on the second floor.”
Other jobs include designing a 160-by-120-foot metal building in Holyoke that will be used to service trucks and a new, two story office building in Florence.
Cudnohufsky is also busy. He began work on Main Street in Great Barrington in 2009, and that project has been ongoing. Other large regional projects include Monument Mills in Housatonic, which consists of several buildings totaling 250,000 square feet, and the design of a major structure in Fitchburg. He also has jobs in New York and Boston. “We have a whole range of work on historic properties, which gives us a really nice mix.”
Markets that have undergone a revival include the restaurant business. “We’ve seen a real upswing in people wanting to put money into them recently,” Douglas said.
And other sectors are growing as well, Porth said. “People are buying commercial buildings in Northampton, Westfield — everywhere in the Valley. Holyoke is up and coming, and people are buying mill buildings in Easthampton, so there is a lot of ongoing activity.”
Coldham’s firm tends to work with clients creating spaces heavily populated by people, such as schools, libraries, and offices. “If people like the space they are in, they tend to stay at their jobs longer and are more productive, which are benefits that come from high-performance buildings,” he said.
His company’s projects range from a new development with more than 20 homes to the transformation of a 100-year-old, five-story mill building in Lawrence into 60 residential units.

Moving Forward
Designs today almost always involve green-building concepts, and one noteworthy trend is the demand for reasonably sized, energy-efficient homes.
“The new generation wants to be green, and we are drawing a lot of smaller houses, due to the cost,” Porth said. “We used to design McMansions that were 5,000 or 6,000 square feet, but today the trend is to go smaller. People want energy-efficient homes that are no larger than 2,500 square feet.”
Cudnohofsky founded and ran the Conway School of Landscaping Design for 20 years and says his firm has always been at the forefront of sustainable ideas and projects. He told BusinessWest that green building has been fueled by revisions in building codes that keep the technology moving forward.
Douglas agreed, adding that salespeople tout how much recycled material their products contain or where their furniture was made. “Material suppliers volunteer the information. You don’t even have to ask about it.”
Kuhn said the combination of new stretch codes and people’s sensitivity to energy conservation has resulted in a new norm. “The standards keep getting much more stringent,” he said, adding that new developments have gone from LEED to net-zero building to the Living Building Challenge, which encompasses the most rigid green-energy initiatives that can be put into place. However, few projects that meet those standards have been done locally, because the work is complex and not financially feasible for most clients.
Coldham & Hartman has completed several co-housing projects and earned recognition for innovative work across the nation. It is one of the only local firms that has built zero-net-energy homes, which generate as much energy as they use. “We’ve done four or five of them,” Coldham said.
However, some jobs continue to be expansive as Baby Boomers seek modifications to their homes. For example, Porth designed a 2,000-square-foot addition for an aging couple who wanted a master bedroom on their first floor. “People are also putting in elevators so they can stay in their homes,” he said, noting that some families are selling their parents’ homes and creating space for them via renovations or additions.

Changing Climate
Kuhn believes changing trends will continue to shape the architectural industry. They include a focus on building within walking distance of downtowns, which has occurred in communities and cities such as Amherst and Northampton. “It’s a more green way to develop,” he said.
It’s also one that promises ongoing work for architects who have weathered the storm of the past few years and are now reaping the rewards for their perseverance and resourcefulness.
For a sector that feels the swings in the economy perhaps more than any other, times are better, and the arrow is pointing up — and firms are intent on making the most of their opportunities.

Building on a Legacy

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Architecture Sections
Juster Pope Frazier Has Designs on Continued Growth

Kevin Chrobak

Kevin Chrobak says the name Juster Pope Frazier is a brand that resonates within many sectors of the economy.

Kevin Chrobak joined the then-Shelburne Falls-based architecture firm Juster Pope Frazier in 1983, after a short stint with rival Architects Inc. and just a few years after graduating from the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn.
He would stay with the company, eventually buying out the men whose names appeared on the letterhead — Norton Juster, Earl Pope, and Jack Frazier — as each one eased into retirement, and in 2006, he assumed the title of principal architect.
While this is now truly Chrobak’s company, he says he’s never thought of changing its name or even adding his name to it. And he gets rather philosophical when explaining why.
“This is a brand — in some sense it’s like Xerox,” the Palmer native said with a laugh, while explaining how and especially why he believes the name Juster Pope Frazier, or JPF, as it’s also called, resonates within the industry and certain sectors of the economy, such as education. “I never felt the need to have my name on the door.”
But Chrobak is doing more than keeping the firm’s signage consistent. He’s also working hard to “extend the culture,” as he put it, of the first-generation partners, and incorporate their values into the company.
“Jack, Earl, and Norton established this business under the notion of doing very good work for very good clients — and also keeping their own lives in mind, their employees’ lives in mind, and keeping things reasonable,” he said. “They were kind, caring people, and very creative. I’ve tried to maintain that same point of view.”
That culture he described is now embedded in the company’s mission statement. Written on the backs of the company’s T-shirts — and on the home page of the firm’s website as well — it has three simple tenets: ‘live inspired, do good, and create beauty.’
“Norton’s the ‘live inspired’ aspect — he wrote The Phantom Tollbooth,” said Chroback, referring to Juster’s children’s adventure novel, published in 1961. “Jack was ‘do good’ — he was always very cognizant of giving back — and Earl was ‘create beauty.’ So that mission statement really guides the practice and how we behave with each other and with our clients, but it also reminds us of culture; maintaining that continuity is important.”
Still, while paying homage to the past, Chrobak and his staff of eight are obviously focused on the present and future. They’re consistently adding new projects to a diverse portfolio that includes everything from the Eric Carle Museum in Amherst to the headquarters for the Channing L. Beete Corp. in Deerfield; from the fire station in Longmeadow to the new science building nearing completion on the campus of Elms College in Chicopee.
That brand Chrobak mentioned earlier has certainly helped the firm win a succession of projects at Nichols College in Dudley, St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury, and the Holyoke Health Center, among many other clients, most of which are repeat customers.
But a bigger factor, and one that helped the firm ride atop the destructive wave otherwise known as the Great Recession, has been its ability to work with clients to create a vision and then take it off the drawing board, he said.
This is a process, he said repeatedly, and one that can be challenging at times, but is generally rewarding for those on both sides of the table.
“It’s fascinating work, and clients really enjoy the process — they feel excited by it,” he explained, adding that he expresses that emotion himself. “It can be a very creative collaboration, and I think it’s something that’s very unique to their lives in many instances.”
For this issue and its focus on architecture, BusinessWest talked at length with Chrobak about his firm’s history, relationship-building efforts, and designs on continued growth.

Lines of Work
As he discussed the many nuances of his chosen field of architecture, Chrobak contrived a few analogies to describe the all-important relationship between the firm and the client — and the process for making a vision become reality.
“I like to think of architects as the director of a movie,” he explained, while relaying one of his often-repeated views on how a successful collaboration works. “The client is the producer, they create the story, but we’re the director that helps them realize their vision.
“Another analogy I use is that we’re translating French, or any other foreign language, into English,” he went on. “We’ll interpret something in their language and put it into our language. We’ll take their words and create a building with three-dimensional form.”
He even compared what goes on between a client and an architect to a long-term relationship, noting that, from the start of design talks to the end of construction, a firm can be on a specific job for three or four years or more.
Summing all this up, he said architecture is as much about design as it is about discussions between the firm and the client about what’s important to the latter and how they identify what Chrobak called the “icons of their site.”
“We view clients as being two things — a physical entity and a site,” he told BusinessWest. “In our thinking, the site is as much a client as the actual [business]client. You try to draw influence from what people are telling you, but you’re also drawing influence from where you’re building as well.”
As examples, he cited two local projects: the Eric Carle Museum, which was designed after a good deal of dialogue and collaboration between the firm and the picture-book artist whose name is on the building, and the nearby Wesley United Methodist Church in Hadley, which has a look borrowed from the tobacco barns that helped give that community its identity.
“It’s based on classical Christian basilica form,” Chrobak said of the church, “but it’s detailed in a manner that’s evocative of the classic Connecticut Valley tobacco barns. You might be tempted to say that a church and a tobacco barn don’t go together, but within that context, it makes all the sense in the world.”
By mastering the art of translating clients’ words and carrying out the role of director, Juster, Pope, Frazier, and, yes, Chrobak were able to build and refine that brand the principal architect described earlier.
Its standing in the market not only helped enable the firm to ride out a recession that nearly crippled many firms, but has positioned it to thrive at a time of stern competition for both public- and private-sector work.
Juster Pope Frazier once did quite a bit of both, said Chrobak, noting that, in the former category, the firm has designed a number of schools, fire stations, and other municipal facilities. But in recent years, as competition has intensified and margins have become razor-thin, the firm has focused its energies almost exclusively on the private sector.
And this strategic move was a big factor in JPF’s ability to essentially avoid the whitewater of the recession and stand today as a larger company, revenue-wise, than when the slide began.
“We didn’t really experience the downturn that everyone else did,” he explained. “We always had a client base that wanted to build because costs were down during those times; contractors were aggressively seeking work, and so their numbers came down dramatically.”
One of the clients looking to take advantage of those circumstances was Nichols College, he said, adding that the institution has become JPF’s biggest customer. The firm has undertaken a number of projects for the school over the past decade, and is essentially redesigning the core of the campus.
Initiatives have included two new suite-style dormitories, a new, 30,000-square-foot student center, an academic building, a dorm renovation, landscape improvements, and other work, with more likely in the future as the school continues an aggressive building program.
Nichols is a prime example of how the firm has been able to gain repeat business from clients, said Chrobak, adding that several institutions fall into this category, including St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury — JPF did work there 15 years ago and is currently designing an arts and academic building for that campus — and Elms College.
The new science building at the Elms will be dedicated this fall, he noted, adding that its design reflects and respects the architecture that defines the campus and especially its signature building, Berkmans Hall.
“That’s a classic, beautiful building built in the middle of the Great Depression,” he said. “We built adjacent to it, and because it’s such a distinctive and beautiful piece of architecture, we felt we needed to be somewhat reverent of that work and not impose our own look.”
This brings him back to the notion of relationships, collaboration, and those analogies he created to describe how a firm and its clients should work together to create something meaningful and that works at the site in question.
“I’m particularly in tune with this because I grew up locally,” he said, referring to the importance of designing a building that works for the client and the location. “It’s a privilege to create buildings that are going to be there for years in a place where you grew up; it’s not something I take lightly.”

Blueprint for Success
That sentiment also applies to the culture — and the brand — established by the first generation of ownership at JPF, said Chrobak.
The name over the company’s door — figuratively, because it’s not there literally — represents more than the three original partners, he told BusinessWest. It reflects a way to do business and live a life.
And so does the mission statement.
More than words on a T-shirt or copy on a website, that statement shows how determined this firm is to recognizing its legacy and, more importantly, building on it.

George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]

Prescription for Change

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Health Care Sections
The Obesity Epidemic Broadens the Role of Today’s Pharmacists

Melissa Mattison

Melissa Mattison, clinical assistant professor at the Western New England University College of Pharmacy.

In June, the American Medical Assoc. (AMA) made official what all those in healthcare already knew and understood — that obesity wasn’t simply a problem, but a disease, and one that reached epidemic proportions in this country.
The motivation behind the declaration was to advance treatment and prevention of obesity, one of the leading causes of diabetes, said Ardis Dee Haven, president of the AMA, in remarks made in June. “This issues a call for a paradigm shift in the way the medical community tackles this complicated issue so that we can reduce the number of Americans suffering from the effects of heart disease, diabetes, disability, and other potentially life-changing health conditions.”
And perhaps nowhere is this shift being seen and felt more than in the realm of pharmacology, said Melissa Mattison, clinical assistant professor at the Western New England University College of Pharmacy, who also spent 18 years as a pharmacist at Walgreens.
Indeed, the emergence of obesity as a major issue in healthcare — and the many health problems it leads to — has been a huge factor in an ongoing evolution in the role pharmacists play, she told BusinessWest.
“Diabetes is definitely an epidemic,” she explained. “As clinicians, we need to educate patients that obesity, which can lead to diabetes, is a preventable disease and that there are many lifestyle modifications that a patient can embrace.”
Elaborating, she said that obesity and the problems that stem from it have impacted myriad aspects of pharmacology — from the products sold and medications dispensed to how diabetes-related items are displayed in the store.
But perhaps the biggest change has come in the relationship between the patient and the pharmacist, she went on. While there has always been an educational component to this profession — it’s never been about simply putting pills in bottles — that aspect of the job description has become far more prominent in recent years.
And obesity and its correlation to diabetes and other health problems is a big reason why.
“The doctor may see the diabetes patient once a month or once every three months, but the pharmacist sees that patient almost every week,” said Mattison, noting that such patients generally take 10 to 12 medications. “And if you see me that many times a week, we start to form a close relationship.”
Skip Matthews agreed. He’s president of the independent and locally owned Lewis & Clark Drug and Medical Supply. He’s not a pharmacist, but manages his family’s 48-year-old business, which includes two pharamacies and two medical-equipment stores in the Springfield area.
“We’ve always seen patients with diabetes, but the demand has really grown,” he explained, adding that this surge in volume affects a host of decisions he makes regarding his stores.
“Our pharmacies are geared toward those with multiple conditions, maybe a little more than a chain pharmacy,” he continued. “And we’ll see diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, and anything to do with the heart — and every one of those issues is directly or indirectly related to obesity.”
For this issue, BusinessWest talked with area experts about how what has become the nation’s most pressing health problem has in many ways changed the job description for pharmacists and made them more prominent players in the delivery of healthcare.

It’s Weighing on Them
When it comes to obesity, diabetes, and the collective impact on the role pharmacists play, the numbers tell the story — or a big part of it, anyway.
The most recent statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that more than 23 million Americans, or close to 8% of the population, have diabetes, and more than one-third of the adults in this country (35.7%) are clinically obese. These numbers have doubled in just the past two decades, and current projections show that the number of people with diabetes in the U.S. will rise to 48 million by 2050.
And this dangerous trend is quite visible in Western Mass. and especially its largest city. According to the Mass. Behaviorial Risk Factor Surveillance System, Springfield has the highest percentage of adults diagnosed with diabetes in the Commonwealth (13.1%) and the highest percentage of adults being told they have pre-diabetes (10.2%).
The impact of all this on pharmacies is made clear by statistics compiled by the Pharmacy Times which show that, while the average consumer spends $300 annually on retail pharmacy purchases, a consumer diagnosed with diabetes will spend $2,500 on average each year in medication, insulin, blood-glucose-monitoring products, and other over-the-counter supplies.
These alarming statistics help explain everything from the rising numbers of health screenings in pharmacies (especially the larger chains) to the fact that many different types of medical equipment have been altered and recalibrated to reflect a much heavier America.
“It really sticks out on the medical-equipment side,” said Matthews, noting that the walkers, canes, hospital beds, bath-transfer seats and commodes that his stores sell, which once were ‘200-pound rated’ (to support patients up to that weight), now come rated at 250, 300, or 350 and higher for the morbidly obese. “The manufacturers have changed what they make, and we’ve had to change our product mix accordingly.”
But perhaps the biggest change that can be traced to those statistics has been the emergence of the pharmacist as educator and counselor, said Mattison.
Elaborating, she said that, in many respects, the pharmacist acts as a liaison between the patient and the primary-care physician.
“In pharmacy school, our focus is not just on the disease state and what the medications are used for,” she noted. “Now, the pharmacist has the responsibility, and the privilege, to spend time with the patient and say, ‘look, Mrs. Jones, we did your screening, and your body-mass index is in the obesity range; what do you know about that? Can I talk to you about that?’”
Matthews agreed.
“There is a greater recognition of the role of pharmacists, even by insurance companies and doctors, in just the past five years, and that wasn’t always the case,” he told BusinessWest. “That’s because the pharmacist brings a lot of value, due to his or her position in healthcare between the doctor and the patient.”

Dispensing Information
This larger, more prominent role takes many forms, said those we spoke with, who noted, for starters, that pharmacists are doing much more, historically speaking, to hold patients accountable for adhering to their medication and recommended lifestyle changes.
“Typically, diabetic patient-adherence rates are somewhere around 50%, so they don’t take their medication every day, and for numerous reasons,” Mattison told BusinessWest. “Adherence is a big push now with pharmacist intervention.”
There’s also that educational component, she went on, adding quickly that, while pharmacists have always welcomed and answered questions, they’re doing much more of that today.
“Now, they [pharmacists] are on the ground floor, and many of the new pharmacists are out on the floor with an iPad and helping customers,” she explained. “They are the first person that the patient sees [after a doctor’s visit], and they can be a continuing point of contact.”
This ongoing evolution in the pharmacist’s role brings with it both opportunities and challenges, said Matthews and Mattison.
In that first category, they place the prospects for growth that come with quality customer service, which takes on new meaning in the expanded role. In other words, pharmacies and individual pharmacists can stand out as a result of how well they accept — and carry out — their new responsibilities.
Mattison added that pharmacies have an advantage over other retail outlets in that they have the opportunity to sell the self-management items diabetic patients need, and also the experience and knowledge needed to offer positive medical support. For this reason, retail pharmacists may choose to place their diabetes-care display near the pharmacist’s counter, or place weight-control and nutritional foods, vitamins, and dietary supplements near the diabetes-care section. The marketing-savvy pharmacists will offer more and more product demonstrations, educational sessions, nutritional advice, blood-pressure screenings, coupons, and store sales.
As for challenges, perhaps the biggest stems from the fact that, in simple terms, pharmacists are not paid to dispense information and be that liaison between patient and physician, said Mattison, adding that doing so takes time, which in this business (or any other, for that matter) is money.
“The expanding role of the pharmacist now involves much more than counting pills,” she explained. “But the problem becomes, who’s going to pay for it, or make it reimbursable, and create a profitable model for the pharmacy?”
Another challenge, Mattison continued, stems from the fact that this broader, pharmacist-as-educator role requires a skill set that for many must be acquired.
And the university is responding accordingly, she said, adding that, in addition to a year-long class focused on the business skills needed for setting up and then operating a successful pharmacy, the school also includes a customer-service component within its healthcare communications class.
It teaches students how to talk compassionately with patients, adherence to a doctor’s plan, and how to navigate customers’ financial, socio-economic, and language issues.
One of the more hands-on aspects of healthcare communications is the process of physically putting the student in the patient’s position, she noted, by making them wear heavy gloves and macular-degeneration goggles that mimic deteriorating eyesight. They’re then asked to read a prescription or open a bottle of pills.
“And they find they can’t do it,” she went on. “So now this 22-year old student gets the perspective of a 78-year old patient, and it teaches them empathy.”

Counting on Them
Empathy is just one of many skills pharmacists now need to do their jobs effectively.
Indeed, where once being able to count was the most visible skill set, now, those in this profession must be able to listen, consult, and help lead their customers to healthier lifestyes.
The epidemic of obesity has much to do with this phenomenon, and all indications are that it will continue to be a large problem — in every sense of that phrase — for a long time to come.

Elizabeth Taras can be reached at [email protected]

Pointed Arguments

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Health Care Sections
Despite Controversies, Vaccines Remain a Critical Line of Defense

Dr. Stephanie Carlin

Dr. Stephanie Carlin says a belief that vaccines cause autism persists in some pockets of the community.

It’s like the end of a horror movie, when viewers think the villain is dead – only to see him rise up one last time.
Meet the villain known as measles. Due largely to an inoculation developed in the 1960s – now commonly administered to young children along with mumps and rubella vaccines in a combined vaccine known as MMR — the U.S. and the United Kingdom had both categorized measles as effectively ‘eliminated’ by the turn of the millennium.
That’s not the case anymore. Child deaths from measles worldwide fell 71% from 2000 to 2011, according to the Measles & Rubella Initiative, a partnership of global-health groups.
Most of that improvement has taken place in developing countries. But cases are rising in the U.S. and especially Europe. The 117 U.S. cases reported in the first half of 2013 alone are up from 54 in all of 2012. Meanwhile, England reported 1,168 cases in 2013 through May, up 64% from the same time a year earlier. The culprit, public-health groups say, is an increased refusal by many parents to have their children vaccinated, citing safety fears, and particularly a belief that vaccinations can cause autism.
“Even though it’s been disproven over and over again on a scientific level, we definitely have that myth circulating in the community,” said Dr. Stephanie Carlin, a pediatrician at High Street Health Center, a Baystate Health practice in Springfield. She said some parents worry about mercury used in the vaccine preservative, which today has been eliminated from early-childhood vaccines like the MMR.
“We also try to educate about the nature of autism, that it tends to be diagnosed around the same time we’re given vaccines. That’s why there was this connection made between the MMR vaccine and autism,” she explained. “But autism is multi-factoral. We think there’s a strong genetic component, and we try to broaden parents’ understanding of autism as a disease that’s not connected to a vaccine.”
What’s happening in Wales is a strong argument for vaccines. Anti-vaccination sentiment ran particularly strong there in the late 1990s after a now-discredited study by Dr. Andrew Wakefield (more on that later). A measles outbreak infected 1,219 people in southwest Wales between November 2012 and July 2013, compared with 105 cases in all of Wales in 2011. Many victims were teenagers whose parents refused vaccines for their infant children.
“Despite the fact that it’s one of the greatest health measures ever invented by man or woman, there seems to still be a small residue of humanity that objects to the very idea of immunization,” Dr. Dai Lloyd, a Welsh physician who treated many of the recent measles cases, told the Wall Street Journal. “If you go around the cemetery, you can see the historical evidence of childhood slaughter from pre-immunization days.”

Different Perspective
Part of the problem, Carlin told BusinessWest, is precisely that today’s young parents didn’t grow up surrounded by that carnage, so they don’t take seriously the potential damage once-common childhood diseases can cause.
“By the age of 2, you could potentially prevent 14 serious diseases in children, which is incredible,” she said. “But parents today haven’t seen the devastating effects of these diseases because we don’t see them anymore. Well, some we do; although we vaccinate for whooping cough, chicken pox, and and measles, outbreaks could rise up again if we didn’t.”
What parents are seeing today, however, is a drastic uptick in autism-spectrum diagnoses.
Enter Wakefield, who first suggested a vaccine-autism link in 1997 when he was a researcher at London’s Royal Free Hospital.
Wakefield was the lead author of a 1998 study, published in the Lancet, which reported on 12 children who allegedly developed gastrointestinal problems and developmental disorders, including autism bowel disorders, after being vaccinated. Alleging a possible connection with the MMR, he publicly advocated for, at the very least, separating the components of the injections by a year or more.
However, the section of the study dealing with an autism link was subsequently retracted by 10 of the paper’s 13 authors. In 2004, following an investigative report by journalist Brian Deer — claiming that children may have been subjected to unnecessary lumbar punctures and colon biopsies, including one colonoscopy that caused the child life-threatening perforations of the bowel — the British General Medical Council (GMC) launched an inquiry into allegations of serious professional misconduct against Wakefield and two former colleagues. The GMC also accused Wakefield of suppressing and falsifying data.
In 2009, an investigation by London’s Sunday Times determined that Wakefield had “changed and misreported results in his research, creating the appearance of a possible link with autism,” citing evidence obtained by the newspaper from medical records and interviews with witnesses. The newspaper also reported that the rates of inoculation in the U.K. fell from 92% to below 80% after the publication of Wakefield’s study, and that confirmed cases of measles in England and Wales rose from 56 in 1998 to 1,348 in 2008, with two child fatalities.
In 2010, the Lancet formally retracted Wakefield’s 1998 paper, and the GMC revoked his license to practice medicine in the U.K. He now practices in the U.S., where a significant number of adherents, many of them parents of autistic children, continue to claim a link between vaccinations and autism.
Dan Olmsted, a blogger with the anti-vaccination website Age of Autism, is one strong voice in the movement (whose most noted celebrity backer has been Jenny McCarthy, who claims that vaccines caused her son’s autism). It’s a varied community — some adherents want mercury out of all vaccines (it’s still used in flu vaccine), others want the MMR vaccine components separated, and others question the necessity of giving young children so many vaccines — but a belief in the autism link is largely common ground.
“One thing I do know for sure,” Olmsted writes, “is that the autism epidemic reflects a fundamental betrayal of American families. Doctors and journalists and judges and scientists, among many others, have failed in their duty to listen to the real stories of real people, real families, and instead have thrown in their lot with the bigs — big medicine, big pharma, big media, big government, big money — and left families to fend for themselves.”
Notably, however, the major advocacy organization Autism Speaks is forcefully on record that studies examining possible links between vaccinations and a rise in autism have not found a link between the two.
“It remains possible that, in rare cases, immunization may trigger the onset of autism symptoms in a child with an underlying medical or genetic condition,” the organization notes, explaining that it is funding studies on the underlying biology of autism, including studies to better understand medical and genetic conditions associated with autism – as well as research on associations between autism and a wide range of non-genetic, environmental, factors, including vaccination history.
In the meantime, “we strongly encourage parents to have their children vaccinated for protection against serious disease. We recognize that some parents still have concerns about vaccines, particularly if they have a child or relative with autism. We urge them to find a health practitioner who will consider their concerns and help them ensure the well-being of their child. Establishing open communication and trust with a physician who understands each child and family is the best strategy for keeping children healthy.”

Fighting Back
However, measles outbreaks continue to pop up occasionally, including the reported infection of at least 15 people in Texas affiliated with a megachurch whose leader, Kenneth Copeland, advocates against vaccines; 12 of those people were not vaccinated as children.
James Goodson, the lead measles expert at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, calls the disease “the canary in the coal mine,” telling the Wall Street Journal that people who refuse one vaccine may be rejecting others as well, setting communities up for outbreaks of other dangerous diseases that are slower to propagate, such as diphtheria and whooping cough.
“The really important concept is that, by vaccinating your child, you’re protecting your community,” Carlin told BusinessWest. “You’re not just making decisions for your kid. If your kid didn’t get vaccinated and gets chicken pox and is around a 3-month-old baby who has not been vaccinated yet, he can give that 3-month-old chicken pox, which can be devastating, depending on the severity of the illness. This is a public-health issue.”
Before 1963, the U.S. saw up to 4 million measles cases annually — a disease that kills about 1 in 1,000 sufferers and can pose respiratory complications, hospitalizations, and seizures for others. Carlin said it’s not an environment the healthcare industry wants to see re-emerge, even in small pockets.
“A lot of parents are asking to separate the vaccines instead of giving them so many in one day — spread them out a month at a time, that kind of thing,” she said. “We’re trying to discourage that as well; if they’re not following the schedule recommended, it’s possible they could be delaying the immune response and not protecting their children as well as they should be protected.”
As for those who question the effect of the antigens in vaccines — substances in vaccines that cause the body to produce antibodies, proteins that help fight off infections — vaccination adherents note that the body is exposed to antigens all the time in the form of bacteria and viruses.
“We try to teach them they’re not overloading their immune system by giving them the vaccines scheduled for that day,” Carlin said. “Our immune system is exposed to millions of antigens on a daily basis, and this very small exposure to vaccines is so little compared to what the daily exposure is. You’re not overloading their system by vaccinating.”
She concedes that the vaccination schedule has expanded over the years, with inoculations required at various stages of life, from infancy to grade school, middle school, and even college.
“Every year it seems to be changing. The long and short of it is, pediatricians view vaccinations as one of the best things you can do for the long-term health of your children — not only to protect them against potentially serious diseases, but also to protect their classmates, family members, and the community.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Planning for Incapacity

By
Health Care Sections
Take Steps Now to Keep the Court out of Your Personal Decisions

Gina Barry

By Gina M. Barry, Esq.

If you were to become incapable of making your medical and financial decisions, do you know who would handle your affairs? Failing to plan for incapacity may mean becoming subject to guardianship and/or conservatorship proceedings in the probate court.
Ideally, you have executed formal legal documents naming someone to make those decisions for you, but many people remain unaware of the consequences of failing to establish a plan for incapacity as well as the steps to take to avoid having the court involved in their personal decisions.
If you were to become unable to make your decisions, whether due to mental illness or physical incapacity, and you have not executed a durable power of attorney and healthcare proxy, it would be necessary to petition the court in order to have a guardian and/or conservator appointed to make your decisions. A guardian is appointed to make personal and medical decisions, while a conservator is appointed to make financial decisions. In some cases, only a guardian or a conservator is needed, but often both must be appointed. While a person under guardianship is deemed ‘incapacitated’ and a person under conservatorship is deemed ‘protected,’ for clarity in this article, all will be referred to as incapacitated.
The guardianship and/or conservatorship process begins with the completion of a lengthy petition that details the incapacitated person’s biographical and personal information, as well as a medical certificate, which must be completed by qualified medical personnel, setting forth the medical basis for the individual’s inability to handle their own affairs. Since the incapacitated individual has never set forth their wishes as to whom they would want to make decisions for them, the person seeking guardianship or conservatorship over the incapacitated person may be someone other than whom the incapacitated person would have selected.
Once the petition is filed, notice must be given to all interested parties, including the incapacitated person, their heirs-at-law, and, in some cases, state agencies. It is also often necessary to publish a notice in the newspaper that the petition has been filed. This notice informs the interested parties of their ability to object to the petition if desired. If an objection is filed, a trial may be needed in order to determine whether a guardian and/or conservator is necessary, as well as to determine who should be appointed.
After the date for objections has passed, and assuming there is no objection, the decree will issue, appointing the guardian and/or conservator. Having a guardian or conservator appointed takes approximately two months, even if no objections are filed. If an objection is filed that cannot be resolved without resorting to a trial, resolution could take many months. Fortunately, a temporary guardian and/or conservator can be appointed while the process is pending.
Even if the court process proceeds without objection, this is fraught with emotion and a loss of privacy. The majority of the papers filed with the court, as well as any hearings, are open to the public. Evidence is presented regarding the nature of the incapacity, and matters very personal to the incapacitated individual are discussed, including their financial situation. The court process is also expensive. In addition to filing fees for most cases, there will also be costs associated with providing proper notice, such as certified mailing and publication expenses. Generally, there is at least one attorney involved, although many times, there are more.
After appointment, a guardian or conservator must file an initial care plan and an additional care plan each year thereafter, detailing their ongoing service as guardian or conservator and their plans for the upcoming year. A conservator must also file an inventory of all the real and personal property that they are managing on behalf of the incapacitated person and must render an annual account detailing all income and expenses.

Avoiding the Court Process
Fortunately, with proper planning, it is possible to avoid the court process. If a durable power of attorney and healthcare proxy have been signed, the individual has named someone who can make all financial and/or medical decisions on their behalf. A durable power of attorney is a legal document that names someone to make financial decisions in the event of incapacity. A healthcare proxy is a legal document that names someone to make medical decisions in the event of incapacity. You must be competent to execute these documents, and thereafter, upon incapacity, there is no need for a guardian or conservator because individuals are already in place to make those decisions. Having both a durable power of attorney and a healthcare proxy is absolutely crucial to avoiding guardianship.
While you are competent, you have the ability to name the people that you would want to make decisions for you if you could not make them for yourself. By doing so, you will eliminate the loss of privacy, money, and time that is associated with the guardianship and conservatorship process. Establish proper documents now, and keep the court out of your personal decisions.

Gina M. Barry is a partner with the regional law firm of Bacon Wilson, P.C., Attorneys at Law. She is a member of the National Association of Elder Law Attorneys, the Estate Planning Council, and the Western Mass. Elder Care Professionals Association. She concentrates her practice in the areas of estate and asset protection planning, probate administration and litigation, guardianships, conservatorships and residential real estate; (413) 781-0560; [email protected].

Run of the Mill

By
Commercial Real Estate Sections
Former Tambrands Complex Becomes Home to an Eclectic Mix of Businesses

the Palmer Technology Center

On the banks of the Chicopee River, the Palmer Technology Center hasn’t exactly lived up to its name, but it has become home to a wide array of businesses — and jobs.

Having grown up in Palmer, Lisa Murray lived in the shadow of the massive Tambrands plant, built in 1872.
It was the epicenter of economic development since as far back as she can remember. It kept the downtown of Three Rivers, one of four villages in Palmer, buzzing, especially at lunchtime. But when the plant closed for good in 1997, a few years of vacancy and stillness prevailed on Main Street, and the mill became another symbol of what once was in this blue-collar region.
Today, however, the sprawling, 325,000-square-foot complex is a different kind of economic driver, and small-business owners like Murray have become the face of the landmark — even if their faces are not seen by many people.
Several years ago, Murray’s company, Transportation Advisors, which offers nationwide consulting for trucking-industry compliance through Federal Department of Transportation regulations — specifically drug and alcohol testing — needed accessible, affordable space in which to grow.
She found all that and more at what is now called the Palmer Technology Center, a name that is somewhat of a misnomer — there are not many technology-related businesses in the complex — but that speaks to how the reinvention of the old mill has been a slow, steady battle that hasn’t exactly gone according to script.
Indeed, the original plan for the mill, said John Morrison, a former employee at Tambrands who later started his own construction and landscaping business and then acquired the mill, was to attract the technology-related businesses that were emerging in huge numbers with the dot-com boom. But while these intentions were good, the timing and location were not.
The Technology Park at Springfield Technical Community College was opening at the same time (1999), and it and other properties in urban centers such as Boston and Worcester were proving to be much more attractive locations than the former manufacturing town off exit 8 of the Turnpike.
Palmer native Lisa Murray

Palmer native Lisa Murray has made her growing transportation business part of the revival of the PTC.

So Morrison and his team widened their sights, and, over the past 15 years, the mill has become home to everything from a library-relocation service to a business selling caskets and urns to a chocolatier. And, for the most part, there is a decidedly local flavor — figuratively, and in at least one, literally — to this mix of ventures.
“It’s a great old building, and I’m a Palmer girl, so I like to keep it local,” said Murray, who became one of the first tenants on the fifth floor of the main manufacturing building and still lives in town. “There’s not a lot of industry left in the area, so if you have a business and you can hire people and house your company locally, it’s good.”
At present, there are 22 businesses in the mill that together employ more than 200 people, said Morrison, noting that, while this number represents a fraction of the workforce at Tambrands at the height of that operation, it is significant to a community that needs jobs, as well as a spark to support other service- and hospitality-related businesses in the community.
And the mill has become just that, said Lenny Weake, who wears two hats, one as the executive director for the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce and the other as the owner of Alternative Options, Affordable Caskets and Urns in the PTC. He said the center has become a hub of economic development that is successful, even if it isn’t visible to many in the community.
“Because there isn’t a lot of retail here, the average person doesn’t even know all that’s going on, because you can’t see the parking lot from the road,” he explained, adding that the vibrancy at the mill has translated into new opportunities for Palmer and especially its rebounding downtown.
With less than 8,000 square feet of office space and 30,000 square feet of light warehouse space left to be leased, Morrison said, the mill complex is close to 90% occupied. That means the PTC has become a success story on a number of levels, especially when it comes to the property being referred to in the present and future tenses, instead of the past.
“We’re finally getting people to stop calling it the ‘old Tambrands building,’” he said with a laugh, noting that while ‘Palmer Technology Center’ doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, it is gaining traction.
For this issue and its focus on commercial real estate, BusinessWest goes inside the PTC to chronicle the progress made there, and also to learn how this eclectic mix of business ventures has come together to create a unique success story.

Time and Space
Known originally as the Otis Mills, which processed cotton, the complex on the bank of the Chicopee River was home to Tambrands for 50 years, producing cotton products of a very different sort: tampons.
Procter & Gamble (P&G), Tambrand’s main competitor, purchased the corporation in 1992, ceasing the manufacturing operations, but converting the plant to its technical research and development center, which was eventually shut down in 1996.
“During Tambrand’s heyday, a woman could buy a box of tampons anywhere in the world, and it would say ‘manufactured in Three Rivers, Mass.,’” said Morrison. At that time, Tambrands had $662 million in global sales and just under 50% of the U.S. market.
Morrison’s knowledge of the building and the company’s history is understandable — they’ve both played a big part in his life, and his family’s. Not only did both of his parents work all their lives at Tambrands, but Morrison himself worked in the shipping department 25 years ago, before launching his landscaping company. He secured contracts with Tambrands for mowing, snow plowing, and scrap-metal collection, eventually evolving into a commercial and residential construction company.
It was that entrepreneurial spirit that caught the attention of P&G’s in-house broker; soon, Morrison was acting as the on-site broker for the corporation, showing potential buyers the mill complex.
And while he took a number of parties on tours, the building failed to generate much interest, despite roughly $20 million in renovations that were undertaken in the late ’80s. Frustrated by their inability to move the property at anything approaching their requested price of $3 million, P&G officials eventually reached out to Morrison and asked if he would be interested.
“I was just a landscaper, and I never say no to business, so I told him, ‘I’ll see what I can do,’” Morrison recalled, adding that he and some partners — Sid Covitch (now deceased), Len Jolles, and members of Covitch family — scraped together the capital to buy the complex for $685,000.
The original plan, as noted earlier, was to ride the tech wave sweeping through the nation and especially the Bay State. The thinking was that Palmer would be an ideal location because it was halfway between Springfield and Worcester. In reality, it turned out to be a little too far from both.
Meanwhile, the Technology Park at STCC had become a very visible, and formidable, competitor for the attention of tech companies.
“We had several come and look at the building because there was a lot of lab space, but they all had their eyes on either Worcester, Boston, or Springfield, and the STCC park was our main competition,” said Morrison. “We were trying to get the overflow from that, but people were very committed to Springfield at the time.”
So Morrison started keying in on more local businesses from a host of industry sectors. The common denominator was a need for accessible, affordable space, and, in many cases, large amounts of it. In meeting such needs, Morrison has been creative in putting specific facilities at the Tambrands plant to new uses.
For instance, the old kitchen of the Tambrands cafeteria is now occupied by Rogue Chocolatier, a small, award-winning cocoa-bean-to-bar manufacturer. Meanwhile, Alternative Options, Affordable Caskets and Urns is in the old computer-lab area, which has ramps that enable heavy caskets to be delivered and then shipped out.
Morrison’s two largest tenants are Mustang Motorcycle Products, which produces after-market motorcycle seats for all brands of motorcycles (it’s the second-largest venture of its kind in the world), and Wing Memorial Hospital’s Wing VNA and Hospice, specifically its billing department and file-storage facilities.
Filling the mill was a slow, sometimes frustrating process, said Morrison, who noted that confidence in his business plan eventually paid off.

John Morrison

When technology companies opted for Boston and Springfield, John Morrison said he targeted local businesses that would best fit the unique spaces in the old Tambrands mill.

“At one time, my partners didn’t have a lot of faith in it, but when I landed Mustang, things started to change,” he said, noting that the company recently moved its corporate headquarters from Connecticut to the PTC, signing a lease for the next seven years.
Other tenants include Tony Valley Entertainment, DJ services and guitar lessons; Halpern Titanium, precision manufacturers of titanium cutlery and other metal products; Palmer Monson Family Network, a nonprofit counseling network; the Learning Factory, a children’s day-care center; Stan-Allen Co., a steel-rule die maker for cutting plywood for board games; National Library Relocations, full-service movers; and Sunshine Village, adult day care for the mentally challenged.
That nonprofit’s clientele has recently doubled due to the closing of the nearby Monson State Hospital, and now occupies almost 13,000 square feet.
“You would think, with so many different types of businesses, it would be more difficult to manage the property,” said Morrison. “But it all works together.”

Milling About
One of the newest tenants at the PTC, Weake said he landed there for one reason.
“I looked all over the place, and in all honesty, it’s the price,” said Weake. “John had the best price for the space that I could find anywhere.”
Currently, Weake’s casket and urn business is on the second floor, and while he’d rather have the frontage of a first-floor Main Street location, his showroom and reasonable rent offers the low overhead he needs to grow a business that was spawned by what he perceived as a recognized need within the community.
“I had a death in the family, and I was stunned to see the prices for all the funeral costs,” said Weake.  “So I got into this business because I found that you don’t have to purchase directly from the funeral home; there is a Federal Trade Commission law that states that consumers have the right to shop for caskets and urns competitively.”
And while Weake is impressed with the success story unfolding within the old mill, he said the influence of those businesses extends beyond those walls and out onto Main Street and beyond.
“It’s very important from the chamber’s standpoint,” he said of the mill’s revival . “Palmer has a neat little downtown with New England charm. People are out and about, and if you think about it, in its heyday, 500 people were down here.”
Another unique business, EP Floors — which applies industrial seamless flooring for food-processing plants across the country, like National Fish & Seafood and King Cove Alaska — and its sister company, EPF Polymer Floors Electro Static Dissipating (ESD), which installs anti-static floor coatings for manufacturers of electronic items on concrete flooring, sought space in the mill for similar reasons.
“A dozen years ago, when it was pretty much empty, the office space drew us in because it was very affordable,” said Sean Mitchell, EP Floors and ESD operations manager. “And then there was the convenience of putting our shop here. We now have four offices and 5,000 square feet of shop space downstairs.”
Price and location were also paramount for Jim Hoag, president of Floormart Inc., a full-service flooring and installation business that was the first full-time business in the former mill. Now occupying 3,800 square feet, more than double the original footprint, Hoag cites the location, his family roots in the area, and the low overhead that the business and his headquarters afford him as reasons for his success.
“Word of mouth is a big thing in Palmer; people want to buy locally and not gravitate towards the big-box stores,” said Hoag. “I have a great local following and repeat customers.”
Morrison sticks to the ‘buy local’ theme by hiring as many of his tenants, like Hoag, as possible to provide their products and services to the PTC.
“To run the building, they use in-house people, and I do all the flooring here,” Hoag told BusinessWest. “He’s not going out and getting other contractors, and essentially that pays for my rent here; one hand washes the other.”

Room with a View
Like many of the repurposed mills in Western Mass., the PTC has not made people forget about the past. Indeed, this will still be the ‘old Tambrands plant’ to many, despite Morrison’s claims of putting that phrase to pasture.
And the businesses inside will likely never be able to match the employment activity at the former mill, which provided good jobs at good wages for generations of Palmer-area families, like Morrison’s.
But the technology center has brought a large dose of vibrancy back to an area that had lost thousands of manufacturing jobs and badly needed a spark. Murray summed up the development succinctly.
“Isn’t it wonderful that a building that was designed for one particular use back in the day to support the manufacturing of Tambrands has been recycled, and has all these great uses, and it’s really helping to revive the area?” she said. “Having grown up here and seeing all the empty buildings and manufacturing that has left, it’s nice that there’s something to replace it all with.”

Elizabeth Taras can be reached at [email protected]

PictureThis

By
Departments Picture This

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]

What’s in a Name?

LoomisThe Loomis Communities recently held a grand reopening celebration at the former Reeds Landing campus to announce the new name of Springfield’s first continuing-care retirement community. Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing, as it will be known, offers independent living, assisted living, nursing care, and rehabilitative care all on one campus. The Loomis Communities acquired the campus in 2009 and has invested $3.2 million in infrastructure improvements. Pictured, from left, are state Rep. Angelo Puppolo; Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; Nancy Godbout, Loomis Lakeside at Reeds Landing administrator; Kay Sordillo, Loomis Communities board member; David Scruggs, Loomis Communities CEO; and state Sen. James Welch.

Eye on the Ball

InductionThe eyes of the sporting world were on downtown Springfield as the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame celebrated its 2013 Enshrinement Ceremony on Sept. 8 at Springfield Symphony Hall. This year’s inductees included coaches Rick Pitino (pictured), Guy Lewis, Jerry Tarkanian, and Sylvia Hatchell; players Gary Payton, Bernard King, Dawn Staley, Richard Guerin, Oscar Schmidt, and Roger Brown; and contributors Russ Granik and E.B. Henderson.








Permanent Temps

KellyServicesKelly Services, a workforce-solutions provider serving the employment and staffing needs of Western Mass. since 1995, recently celebrated its move to 1550 Main St., Suite 108, in downtown Springfield with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pictured, left to right, are Jeff Ciuffreda, executive director of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield; Pamela Mendes, district manager for Kelly Services; Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; and, from Kelly Services, David Weeks, vice president of US Operations, Dawn Ford, regional vice president, and Vanessa Sitler, senior staffing supervisor.

Court Dockets

By
Court Dockets Departments

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

CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Lancer Insurance Co. a/s/o GB Express Inc. v. Jasmine International Corp. and Robert E. Smith Jr.
Allegation: Trespass of property and negligence resulting in property damage to plaintiff’s trailer: $14,500
Filed: 7/17/13

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Amy Hollowell v. C&S Wholesale Groceries and Hector Rivera
Allegation: Employment discrimination: $25,000
Filed: 6/21/13

KV Mechanical Construction and Restoration Co. v. Built Inc., Polymer Corp., and Manchem, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of goods and services provided: $79,545
Filed: 7/10/13

Stephen A. Denoia v. Sears Holding Corp.
Allegation: Product liability. Stationary bike collapsed causing injury: $11,243.28
Filed: 7/17/13

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Carrie Lagoy v. Cooley Dickinson Hospital
Allegation: Employment discrimination: $ 25,000+
Filed: 8/6/13

Derick Campbell v. Northampton Housing Authority
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing slip and fall: $45,000
Filed: 8/9/13

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Integrys Energy Services Inc. v. William M. Collins, II d/b/a Spoleto Restaurant Group
Allegation: Breach of agreement, services rendered, unjust enrichment, and account annexed: $15,907.62
Filed: 8/13/13

PALMER DISTRICT COURT
Maple Crane Realty Inc. v Dorothy Fleishman d/b/a What’s Cooking Kids
Allegation: Unpaid commercial rent: $60,000
Filed: 7/11/13

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Ball Publishing Co. Inc. v. Joseph Hickson Jr. and Katherine Hickson d/b/a Private Garden Greenhouse
Allegation: Non-payment of advertising services rendered: $14,263.20
Filed: 7/17/13

Daniel Austin v. Pride Convenience Inc.
Allegation: Failure to pay wages: $25,000
Filed: 6/27/13

Reinhart Food Service v. George Eskander d/b/a/ Franklin Pizza
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $6,860.01
Filed: 7/11/13

TBF Financial Inc. v. Puerto Rican Cultural Center
Allegation: Breach of lease agreement: $6,628.64
Filed: 6/27/13

Timothy Scott v. Vonage America Inc.
Allegation: Defendant breached contract without prior notice: $24,000
Filed: 7/27/13

Western Mass Electric Co. v. Safety Insurance Co. and Bryan Pasco
Allegation: Repair and replace electrical facilities: $7,376.78
Filed: 7/16/13

Agenda

By
Agenda Departments

Publishing Fair
Sept. 28: Amherst Area Publications will present a publishing fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Masonic Hall at 99 Main St., Amherst. Learn how to find an agent, coach, editor, artist, trainer, or printer. Learn about self-publishing, marketing your work, publishing locally, and more. The $10 admission includes workshops. Pre-registration for workshops via e-mail is strongly suggested. They include: 10:15 a.m., “Do-it-yourself Book Marketing” by Shel Horowitz, author and international speaker; 11:30 a.m., “Intro to Self-publishing” by Sean Cleary, owner of CopyCat;
12:30 p.m. “Memoirs” by Kitty Axelson-Berry, owner of Modern Memoirs Inc. and White Poppy Press; 1:30 a.m., “What Small Presses Do” by Steve Strimer of Levellers Press. To register, contact [email protected] or Amherst Area Publications, P.O. Box 3389, Amherst, MA 01004. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Amherst Cultural Council,
a local agency which is supported by the Mass. Cultural Council. Amherst Area Publications Inc. is a member of the Amherst Chamber of Commerce.

Wicked in Pink Motorcycle Ride
Oct. 13: The Wicked In Pink Run, a motorcycle event created by Bob Kaine Alves, a local motorcycle magazine and shop owner who recently fought his own battle with cancer, will raise much-needed funds for the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center Patient Services Fund at Mercy Medical Center. The event will also show support for all those battling cancer, cancer survivors, their caregivers, family, and friends. Registration for the run will begin at 9:30 a.m. at Harley-Davidson of Southampton. Participants will leave at noon from the dealership and end at the outdoor pavilion at Summit View Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, where there will be food and entertainment. Tickets cost $20 per person. Kaine Alves, owner of Throttle Rocker magazine, recently battled cancer of the head and neck and made it his mission to pay forward the compassionate treatment he received from the staff of the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center. This event will show support for all types of cancer. All riders are encouraged to wear pink, whether it be hats, wigs, shirts, or shoes — creativity is appreciated. Sponsors include Throttle Rocker magazine, Haymond Law, American Medical Response, Harley-Davidson of Southampton, Allen Media Inc., 94.7 WMAS, FSC Insurance Agency, and Bertera Fiat West Springfield. For more information on the event, visit www.wickedinpinkrun.com or www.facebook.com/wickedinpinkrun.

Rays of Hope Walk
Oct. 20: When this year’s 20th annual Rays of Hope – A Walk Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer steps off, it will be a celebration of two decades of women, men, and children walking together to fight breast cancer. Since its inception in Springfield in 1994 by Lucy Giuggio Carvalho, Rays of Hope, the most successful fund-raising walk and run in Western Mass. for breast cancer, has grown from 500 participants raising $50,000 to some 22,000 walkers and runners in an expanded event that includes a second walk in Greenfield, as well as this year’s 4th annual Run Toward the Cure 8K in Springfield. As in past years, the Springfield walk with some 600 teams — who may choose either a two- or five-mile route — and run begin at Temple Beth El on Dickinson Street, where registration is set for 9 a.m. The Springfield walk steps off at 10:30 a.m., preceded at 10:15 a.m. by the 8K run. The walk in Greenfield — either a two- or three-mile route — begins at Energy Park on Miles Street at noon, with registration at 10 a.m. All monies raised through Rays of Hope — more than $11 million since 1994 — remain local and are administered by the Baystate Health Foundation. Those who want to support the Rays of Hope but are unable to walk due to other commitments can participate in the 10,000 Steps Toward a Cure program. Participants receive a pedometer to keep track of their steps throughout the month of October, while raising donations similar to other walkers. This year’s Rays of Hope major sponsors are Health New England, Gale Toyota, Balise, Baystate Breast & Wellness Center, Baystate Breast Specialists, Chicopee Savings Charitable Foundation, Doctors Express, Kinsley Power Systems, Lia Auto Group, Radiology & Imaging, and Zasco Productions. A listing of all sponsors can be found on the Rays of Hope website. For more information on the event, call (413) 794-8001 or visit baystatehealth.org/raysofhope, where walk or run participants may also register online.

Western Mass. Business Expo 2013
Nov. 6: Planning is underway for the Western Mass. Business Expo 2013, a day-long business-to-business event to take place at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield. This fall’s show, the third edition of the Expo, which is again being produced by BusinessWest, will feature more than 150 exhibitors, seminars on timely issues of the day, special Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and the wrap-up Expo social, which has become a not-to-be-missed networking event. The breakfast speakers will be Jim Koch, founder of Samuel Adams, the lunch speaker will be author, activist, and marathon runner Kathrine Switzer. Other details about specific programming will be printed in upcoming editions of BusinessWest and can also be seen online at www.wmbexpo.com or www.businesswest.com. For more information on the event or to reserve booth space, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By
Chamber Corners Departments

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Sept. 24: Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For those political and policy junkies. Join us for our debut event featuring a policy expert and member of the Patrick administration for a breakfast and roundtable discussion. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 1: Rake in the Business Tabletop and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, Chicopee. This unique tabletop showcase provides businesses and organizations with an affordable opportunity to exhibit their products and services. Presented in collaboration with the Greater Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce. Exhibitor space is $100 and includes an 8-foot table, two exhibitor passes, and six complimentary passes for admission. Reservations to attend are $5. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 2: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Speed Networking — join us for our take on speed dating, a fast-paced way for you to work the room, making 50 new contacts at one breakfast. Get your elevator speech ready for this unique event. Sponsored by Series Sponsor Masiello Employment Services. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 9: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at One Financial Plaza Community Room, 1350 Main St., Springfield. The program, “Birds Tweet, but Should You? Is Social Media Right for Your Business?” will discuss strategies behind using social media, determining your return on investment and tips on how to best deploy social media to your advantage. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission, and includes networking time and a boxed lunch. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 24: A Chocolate Affair, 6-9 p.m., at Chez Josef in Agawam. Indulge yourself in chocolate, shopping, and networking. Presented by the Professional Women’s Chamber, an affiliate of the ACCGS. Exhibitor space is $70. Reservations to attend are $40. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 25: Super 60, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Chez Josef in Agawam. Celebrate the region’s top-performing companies. Now, in its 24th year, this awards program celebrates the success of the fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the region that continue to make significant contributions to the strength of the regional economy. Presented by Health New England with support from Hampden Bank, Sullivan Hayes & Quinn, the Republican, and WWLP-TV 22. Reservations are $50 for members, $70 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Sept. 25: Chamber After 5 at Florence Savings Bank, Block Party, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by and sponsored by Florence Savings Bank, 385 College St., Amherst. Explore the whole group of businesses at Amherst Crossing: Amherst Pharmacy, Coldwell Banker-Upton Massamont Realtors, and Pioneer Valley Ideal Weight Loss. Enjoy tasty treats from Portabella Catering. Admission: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].
• Oct. 3: Amherst Area Chamber Annual Awards Dinner, 5:30-9 p.m., at the UMass Student Union Ballroom. Presented by PeoplesBank. Sponsored by J.F.Conlon & Associates. Legacy Award: John Coull; Lifetime Achievement in Business: Ronald Nathan, Amherst Insurance Agency/the Nathan Agencies; Community Service: Family Outreach of Amherst; Chamber MVP: Cinda Jones, W.D. Cowls Land Co. Admission: $75 per ticket.
• Oct. 18: Legislative Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn. Sponsored by Western Massachusetts Electric Co. Admission: $15 for members, $20 for non-members.

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

• Oct. 1: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, an ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fran Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
• Oct. 8: Mayoral Forum, 6 p.m., Eastworks Meeting Space, Suite 160, 116 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Learn about the Easthampton mayoral candidates’ views on business and their plans for the future of Easthampton. Free and open to the public.
n Oct. 10: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by Cernak Buick, 102 Northampton St., Easthampton. Hors d’ouevres, beer, and wine available. Door prizes. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for future members.
• Oct. 15: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, an ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fran Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
n Oct. 21: Celebrity Bartenders Night, 6-9 p.m., at Opa-Opa Steakhouse & Brewery, 169 College Highway, Southampton. Join us for a night of fun with local celebrities mixing drinks. Tips benefit the chamber’s holiday lighting fund. Raffles and more fun. Admission: free.

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

• Sept. 24: “The Power of E-mail Marketing,” bonus session: “Getting Started with Constant Contact E-mail Marketing,” from 8:30 (registration) to 10 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. Attendance is free. For reservations, call the chamber office at 413-534-3376.
• Oct. 1: Table Top Showcase, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Chicopee Castle of Knights. Four area chambers — Greater Holyoke, Chicopee, Westfield, and the ACCGS — are getting together to present a tabletop mini-trade show. Tables cost $100. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 to secure your table.
• Oct. 3: “Ask a Chamber Expert: the Basics of Blueprint Reading,” 8:30-10 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Learn how to define different types of scales used on drawings; identify the height, width, and length dimensions of a drawing; interpret the various symbols and notations used on a drawing; distinguish between plan, elevation, section, and detail views; and become familiar with basic plan-reading terminology. Price includes a continental breakfast. Cost: $10 for members; $25 at the door and for non-members. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.
• Oct. 9: Autumn Business Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin. Sponsored by the Republican and Holyoke Medical Center. Recognizing new members, business milestones, and networking breakfast meeting. Cost: members, $22 in advance, $28 at the door. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.
• Oct. 16: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at the Center for Health Education, 404 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke (former Grynn & Barrett Studios). Business networking event to take place at HCC’s newest education facility. Networking, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.
• Oct. 22: Social Media with Constant Contact Workshop, 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. This information-packed seminar offers a basic review of the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand to successfully get started with social-media marketing. Admission is free. Brought to you by Constant Contact. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.
• Oct. 30: Manufacturing Breakfast, 7:30-9:30 a.m., at the Wherehouse, 109 Lyman St., Holyoke. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.massachusettschambersofcommerce.com
(413) 525-2506

• Nov. 12: Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, 9 a.m. registration, at the DoubleTree, Westborough. For more information on ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, call the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].

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

• Sept. 26: Business Planning Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Northampton Chamber, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by the staff of the Franklin County Community Development Corp. This 90-minute session informs business owners about business planning, the loan process, where to get help, and how to launch a food product and use the Western MA Food Processing Center. Learn about available resources and walk out knowing your next step. Admission is free, but space is limited. RSVP to [email protected].
• Sept. 25: Incite Information, 7:30-9 a.m., at Look Park: the Garden House. Hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Sponsors: United Personnel, Webber & Grinnell, and Six-Point Creative Works. The speaker will be state Sen. Senator Stan Rosenberg. Incite Information is a four-part series on the future of business in the Pioneer Valley. The format and topics were developed from a survey of chamber members, in which it was clear that business leaders are looking for more avenues for relevant and highly local information that will help them make decisions more effectively. The series will include expert speakers who will address big issues with a local mindset. Topics for this year will include economic development, high-speed transportation, higher education, and the impact of work culture. Cost: $20 for members, $30 for non-members. RSVP required. To register, contact Esther at [email protected].
• Oct. 2: Annual Chamber Open House, 5-7 p.m. Sponsors: Innovative Business Systems, Pioneer Training, and Crocker Communications. The chamber’s largest fall networking event, the open house is designed to introduce prospective members to the chamber and its members. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].
• Oct. 8: Business to Customer Marketing Workshop: “On-the-spot Marketing Tips for Increasing Foot Traffic,” 1-3 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Presented by the Creative Marketing Group. The Creative Marketing Group will meet with you and your fellow retail business owners and managers at our conference-room table, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business, reach the media, and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. Cost: free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Esther at [email protected]
• Oct. 22: Business to Business Marketing Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Cost: free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Esther at [email protected].
• Nov. 6: Arrive@5 Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by the World War II Club. Sponsors: Homeward Vets. Catered by Big Kats Catering. The chamber will be collecting donations for Homeward Vets. A list of needed donations will be posted on its website. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].

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

• Sept. 26: Coffee with Mayor Cohen, 8-9:30 a.m., at the OMG Training Center, 604 Silver St. Agawam. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 2: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., at Westfield Bank, 655 Main St., Agawam. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Event is open to the public, but non-members must pay at the door. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 10: West Springfield Mayoral Debate, 6-8 p.m., at West Springfield City Hall. Event is open to the public and free for both members and non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 17: Business with Bacon, 7-9 a.m., at Crestview Country Club. Speaker: Gaming Commissioner Bruce Stebbins. Cost: $25 for chamber members, $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 23: Business to Business Expo, hosted by the West of the River Chamber, the North Central CT Chamber, the Bradley Regional Chamber, and the East Windsor Chamber, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Hosted by Holiday Inn, Enfield. Cost: $100 for a six-foot table if you are a member of any chamber and pay in full by Sept. 27, or $150 for a six-foot table if you are not a member of any chamber or do not pay in full by Sept. 27. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or email [email protected].

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

• Oct. 7: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the Forum House, 55 Broad St., Westfield. Mayor Knapik will speak about all that is happening around Westfield and field questions. Free and open to the pubic. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 9: October WestNet Connection, 5-7 p.m., at East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. An evening of networking; don’t forget your business cards. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Walk-ins are welcome. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

People On the Move

By
Departments People on the Move

Burkhart Pizzanelli, P.C. a certified public accounting firm in West Springfield, announced that Deborah Penzias and Julie Quink have been admitted as partners to the firm. They join partners Richard Burkhart, Salvatore Pizzanelli, and Thomas Pratt.  Penzias, who joined the firm in 1998, is a graduate of the State University of New York at Oswego with a BS in Accounting, and has more than 25 years of experience in public accounting. She services a diverse client base and specializes in the taxation, accounting, consulting, and information-technology areas of the practice. She serves on the finance committee of Beit Ahavah, and was formerly on the board of directors and the finance committees of Congregation B’nai Israel and the Lander Grinspoon Academy — the Solomon Schechter School of the Pioneer Valley. Quink has more than 20 years of experience in public accounting and three years in private, corporate accounting. She joined the firm in 2011 and is a graduate of Elms College with a BS in Accounting. She specializes in the accounting and auditing, financial-reporting, and litigation-support segments of the practice.
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Florence Savings Bank recently announced the promotion of Michelle Bennett to Vice President. Bennett has been the bank’s Security Officer since 2007, where she oversaw all aspects of security for the bank’s offices and ATM locations, including fraud prevention and mitigation for customers’ accounts. In that position, Bennett implemented a number of programs designed to protect customers, including FraudWatch Plus, a state-of the art fraud-detection and protection system for debit cards that electronically monitors transactions looking for suspicious or fraudulent actively, and she initiated programs to train bank staff on the recognition and detection of fraudulent situations, including elder exploitation. Bennett also created a number of education programs to help customers and members of the public prevent fraud; the most notable of these programs is FSB Shred Days. She attended Westfield State University, where she earned a BA in English with a concentration in literature.
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Janet Casey, Principal of Marketing Doctor, a full-service advertising agency in West Springfield, was recently selected for a two-year term as a National Delegate from Massachusetts to Vision 2020, a national organization based in Philadelphia that is committed to achieving women’s economic and social equality through specific goals. Casey will join Carla Oleska, Executive Director of the Women’s Fund, as a Massachusetts delegate, leading projects in the Commonwealth and across the country to accelerate leadership among women and men to reach a new dimension of American excellence by the year 2020, the centennial celebration of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote. Vision 2020 is comprised of 100 delegates from across the country.
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Monson Savings Bank recently announced the promotion of Karen Cartier to Assistant Vice President, Collections, and Fraud Officer.  Cartier, who joined Monson Savings in 2001, has served the banking industry for more than 20 years, beginning her career as a part-time collector. She was promoted to Collections & Fraud Officer in 2006. She currently serves as president of the Security Loss Prevention Assoc. of Massachusetts and is a River East School to Career student mentor. Serving on The March of Dimes board of directors, she has been the chair or co-chair of the Chef’s Signature Auction for the March of Dimes for several years, and is the co-founder of the Forever in Our Hearts Charity Fund to benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children.
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The Springfield-based law firm Robinson Donovan P.C. announced that the following attorneys were recently named by their peers to Best Lawyers in America 2014:
• James Martin — franchise law, real-estate law;
• Jeffrey McCormick — personal injury litigation (plaintiffs), personal-injury litigation (defendants);
• Carla Newton — family law;
• Nancy Frankel Pelletier — personal-injury litigation (defendants);
• Patricia Rapinchuk — employment law (management), litigation labor, and employment;
• Jeffrey Roberts — corporate law, trusts and estates; and
• Richard Gaberman — corporate law, real-estate law; tax law; trusts and estates. Gaberman was also named a Best Lawyers’ 2014 Springfield, Mass. Lawyer of the Year for trusts and estates.
•••••
Amy Royal, founding Senior Partner and head of the litigation department of Royal LLP, the woman-owned, management-side labor and employment law firm in Northampton, has been appointed to the board of the Mass. State Council, the state chapter of the national organization Society for Human Resource Management. SHRM is the world’s largest association devoted to human-resource management, serving the needs of HR professionals and advancing the interests of the HR profession.
•••••
Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., a Springfield-based labor and employment law firm, announced that four of the firm’s attorneys were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2014. Additionally, Ralph Abbott was named the Best Lawyers 2014 Springfield, Mass. Labor Law – Management Lawyer of the Year for the second time in three years, succeeding Jay Presser, who was named best in that category last year.
• Ralph Abbott Jr., a partner since 1975, represents management in labor relations and employment-related matters, providing employment-related advice to employers, assisting clients in remaining union-free, and representing employers before the National Labor Relations Board;
• Jay Presser has more than 35 years of experience litigating employment cases and has successfully defended employers in civil actions and jury trials and handled cases in all areas of employment law, including discrimination, sexual harassment, wrongful discharge, wage and hour, FMLA, ERISA, and defamation;
• John Glenn, a partner since 1979, represents management in labor relations and employment-related matters. In addition to providing employment-related advice to employers, he assists clients in remaining union-free and represents employers before the NLRB; and
• Timothy Murphy, partner in the firm, joined Skoler-Abbott after serving as General Counsel to an area labor union and serving as an Assistant District Attorney for the Hampden County District Attorney’s Office. His practice includes labor relations and employment litigation, as well as employment counseling.
•••••
Springfield College announced the following:
• Pam McCray was named Assistant Director of Sports Communications and will help facilitate all aspects of media and sports information relating to the 26 intercollegiate men’s and women’s sports teams at the school. McCray joins the Springfield College Athletic Department after a tenure as a sports reporter for the Republican masslive.com. Along with her print media experience, McCray served as a production assistant for ABC 40/Fox 6 in Springfield. McCray is currently working on her MS at Springfield College, majoring in physical education and athletic administration. Prior to enrolling at SC, McCray earned a BS in communications and mass media from Western New England University in 2010.
• Richard Wood, who has been a faculty member since 2007 in the Department of Exercise Science and Sport Studies, was named the new Director of the Center for Wellness Education and Research (CWER), which is housed in the Springfield College School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. During his tenure, Wood has been educating in the area of nutrition and conducting research related to lifestyle modification in the treatment of chronic metabolic disease. Prior to his time at SC, he served as a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism. Wood earned a Ph.D. in nutritional science from the University of Connecticut in 2006, his MS in applied exercise science in 2001, and BS in 1999 in athletic training from Springfield College.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

West Springfield Voters Kill Hard Rock Casino
WEST SPRINGFIELD — West Springfield residents made a strong statement against a resort casino there, with 55% of referendum voters saying no, and killing the chances of Hard Rock International developing the project on the grounds of the Eastern States Exposition. That trims the number of competitors for the sole Western Mass. casino license to just two; Springfield voters have already approved (by a 58-42 margin) a proposal by MGM Resorts International to built a casino in the city’s South End, while Palmer residents will vote in November on whether to approve Mohegan Sun’s project there. The Mass. Gaming Commission is expected to issue a license for one of these projects early in 2014. In West Springfield, 7,578 residents, or 45.7%, turned out to vote, with the proposition losing by 752 votes. According to campaign finance documents filed with the city, Hard Rock and the pro-casino movement spent $936,920 trying to get the project approved, while opponents working with No Casino West Springfield Inc. spent $1,765 — totals which do not reflect a surge of late spending by both sides in the campaign’s final days.

Four Sites Offered for UMass Facility in Downtown Springfield
SPRINGFIELD — Four sites in downtown Springfield have been offered as potential locations for a satellite facility of UMass Amherst, the Republican reported earlier this month. The offers came in response to a request for proposals issued by the university in August. School officials stipulated that they were interested in leasing approximately 25,000 square feet of space in the downtown area and have the ability to double that space at a later date. The four companies that sumitted bids, and their proposed sites, are:
• 1350 Main St., LLC, which is offering space at One Financial Plaza;
• JGT Mass LLC, which is offering space at 1391 Main St. (Harrison Place);
• Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co., which is offering space at 1500 Main St. (Tower Square); and
• Opal Real Estate Group, which is offering space at the Peter Pan Bus Station on Main Street.

Cathedral High School Tornado Claims Settled
SPRINGFIELD — The Diocese of Springfield and Catholic Mutual have announced an amicable resolution of all claims for June 1, 2011 tornado damage to Cathedral High School (CHS); St. Michael’s Academy (SMA), including the preschool and middle-school facilities; and the St. Michael’s Priests Residence building. In addition, other claims relating to damage to property owned by the diocese, including the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and St. Jude Mission properties in Springfield, have been resolved as part of the agreement. When experts for Catholic Mutual and the diocese did not agree on the cost to repair damage from the tornado to the CHS/SMA middle-school building and other properties, the parties agreed to submit their disagreement to a reference procedure outlined in Massachusetts law to resolve such disputes. That process began in September 2012 and concluded in July 2013. Under the terms of this settlement agreement, within 30 days of its execution, Catholic Mutual will make a payment of $40 million. This amount will be in addition to the $19.9 million previously advanced to the diocese by Catholic Mutual and another $2 million paid directly by Catholic Mutual to Service Master for their initial cleanup services at the site. The diocese will add an additional $200,000 from insurance reserves. This settlement brings all disputes regarding property damage to a final conclusion, without the possibility of further legal challenges. Mike Intrieri, president and CEO of Catholic Mutual, said he is “happy that the process led to this complete settlement without the need for further legal proceedings. We wish the Diocese of Springfield well.” The diocese has already announced plans for partial demolition at the Surrey Road site.

Economic Gulf Grows Between Rich, Poor
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The gulf between the richest 1% and the rest of America is the widest it has been since the 1920s, according to an analysis of Internal Revenue Service figures dating to 1913 by economists at the University of California Berkeley, the Paris School of Economics, and Oxford University. The wealthiest 1% of Americans earned more than 19% of the country’s household income last year — their biggest share since 1928, the year before the stock-market crash — while the top 10% captured a record 48% of total earnings last year. One of the analysts, Berkeley’s Emmanuel Saez, said the incomes of the richest Americans surged last year in part because they cashed in stock holdings to avoid higher capital-gains taxes that took effect in January. In 2012, the incomes of the top 1% rose nearly 20% compared with a 1% increase for the remaining 99%. The richest Americans were hit hard by the financial crisis; their incomes fell more than 36% during the Great Recession of 2007-09 as stock prices plummeted, while incomes for the bottom 99% fell just 11.6%. But since the recession officially ended in June 2009, the top 1% have enjoyed the benefits of rising corporate profits and stock prices, with 95% of the income gains reported since 2009 going to the top 1%. The top 1% of American households had pre-tax income above $394,000 last year, while the top 10% had income exceeding $114,000. The income figures include wages, pension payments, dividends, and capital gains from the sale of stocks and other assets. They do not include so-called transfer payments from government programs such as unemployment benefits and Social Security. The income share of the top 1% bottomed out at 7.7% in 1973 and has risen steadily since the early 1980s, according to the analysis. Economists point to several reasons for widening income inequality, including competition with lower-wage labor in China and other developing countries, resulting in outsourcing of jobs, while technology continues to replace workers in performing routine tasks.

Company Notebook

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Company Notebook Departments

STCC, HCC Sign Articulation Agreement
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) and Holyoke Community College (HCC) signed an articulation agreement Aug. 26 that will benefit students transferring from HCC’s medical billing certificate program to STCC’s medical coding and billing specialist associate degree program. Under the agreement, credits completed in HCC’s medical billing certificate program will transfer to STCC’s program, allowing students who may have initially decided to complete the certificate program to transfer seamlessly to a degree program. According to Leona Ittleman, dean of STCC’s School of Business and Information Technologies, both STCC and HCC have offered certificate programs in the medical billing and coding disciplines for nearly 30 years. However, Ittleman said the degree program at STCC was implemented nearly 10 years ago to address increasing national standards as well as local employer needs with more comprehensive knowledge of anatomy and physiology, human disease, and pharmacology, as well as computer technology. “This agreement allows both STCC and HCC to maximize limited resources while satisfying both student and employer needs,” she explained. This new agreement is just one of several joint initiatives the two community colleges have undertaken in recent years, including Training & Workforce Options (TWO), which provides training alternatives to area employers at both STCC and HCC.
“I’m excited to work with our colleagues at STCC to provide HCC students multiple pathways into jobs in a growing industry,” said HCC Vice President of Academic Affairs Matthew Reed.

Incorporations

By
Departments Incorporations

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

CHICOPEE

Velcomm Corp., 176 Center St., Chicopee, MA 01013. Mustafa Serkan Sayici, 25 Rockview St., Palmer, MA 01069. Export medical supplies/auto parts; import furniture.

HOLYOKE

Prescription Drug Assistance Inc., 330 Whitney Ave., Suite 440, Holyoke, MA 01040. John Stocks, 55 Cedar Road, Longmeadow, MA 01106. Assist low-income people obtain prescription drugs.

LEVERETT

Teaching Hope Inc., 65 Camp Road, Leverett, MA 01054. Emma Ryan Thorup, same. Fund education in third-world countries.

LUDLOW

True East Landscapes Inc., 95 Massachusetts Ave., Ludlow, MA 01056. Dustin Taudal, same. Home services; landscaping.

SPRINGFIELD

The Brother’s Grocery Corporation, 314 Bay St., Springfield, MA 01109. Virginia Isabel Leonor, 131 Bloomfield St., Springfield, MA 01108. Grocery store.

The Harley Shokar Community Center, 108 Blaine St., Springfield, MA 01108. Eileen Mary Garrigan LMHC, same. Mental health services and education to individuals, families, adolescents and institutions.

Walnut Food Inc., 305 Walnut St., Springfield, MA 01105. Abdul Raja, same. Fast food restaurant.

WARE

Safe Guns – Healthy Lives Inc., 91 West Main St., Ware, MA 01082. Michael Weisser, 203 Packardville Road, Belchertown, MA 01007. Promote research and programs that will help health professionals lessen the hurt of gun violence.

WEST HATFIELD

Sarah’s Pet Services Inc., 12 Church Ave., West Hatfield, MA 01088. Sarah Schatz, same. Pet care services.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of and September 2013.

AGAWAM

Auto Consultants
11 Maynard St.
Peter Gallagher

Cassandra Murray
430 Main St.
Cassandra Murray

Rain or Shine Flyer Distribution
438 Springfield St.
Sean Navin

V.M. Double Power
16 Sycamore Terrace
Vitaliy Mokan

CHICOPEE

Basics Plus Mini Mart
190 East St.
Ahmad Amin

Computer Solutions
73 Park St.
Jerrard McCarthy

Prime Time Fitness & Nutrition
220 Fuller Road
Sergio Amaral

EASTHAMPTON

DWB Services
25 East Green St.
David Bouder Jr.

Happy Face Crochet
1 Mayher St.
Naomi Longo

Natural Vitality
123 Union St.
Lenore Anderson

Pad Printing Plates New England Inc.
1 Cottage St.
Michael Macleod

Sunny Avenue Arts Studio
150 Pleasant St.
JoAnne Lucia

HOLYOKE

ABC Sales & Service
621 South Canal St.
Robert J. Celi

American Eagle Outfitters
50 Holyoke St.
Scott Griffith

Dam Café
27 Myrtle Ave.
Michael E. McMahon III

Holyoke Nails
5 Cabot St.
Quyen Nguyen

Real China Restaurant
1529 Northampton St.
Zijian Yan

T’s Zone, LLC
50 Holyoke St.
Thomas Clarke

NORTHAMPTON

Barton’s Angels Inc.
144 Riverbrook Road
Nancy Whitley

GeoPilot Service
71 Federal St.
Scott Girard

Northampton Auto Wholesale Inc.
139 Damon Road
Luis Leyva

Northampton Psychotherapy
8 Crafts Ave.
Nicholas Boutros

The Mirage Group
16 Market St.
Gary Richardson

The Overlook Health Center
222 River Road
Mary Uschmann

The Town Bike
243 King St.
Taylor Gallerani

PALMER

Black Bay Ventures, LLC
22 Mount Dumplin Road
Robert Logan

Dark Star Emporium
1343 Main St.
Erich Becker

Firefighting Equipment
2146 Main St.
Alan Fauteux

Ganesha Institute
75 Griffin St.
Saskia Cote

Perfection Pools Unlimited
1826 Central St.
Mark Bouthier

Zourra Designs
2 Green St.
Farida Ellouizi

SOUTHWICK

First Step Therapy
11 Pearl Brook Road
Nancy Psholka

Oak Ridge Logging
48 Lakeview St.
Matthew Kurowski

SPRINGFIELD

Katie Pacheco
1523 Wilbraham Road
Katie Pacheco

Ken Martin HVAC
282 Main St.
Hugh K. Martin

Linguistics
32 Ashmun St.
Lydia Lopez

Luz Lopez Consulting
471 Dickinson St.
Luz Z. Lopez

Macy’s Retail Holdings
1655 Boston Road
Stephen O’Bryan

Main Connection
2670 Main St.
Jacqueline Alban

Michele Howe’s Trucking
174 Powell Ave.
Michele L. Howe

Midtown Barber & Styling
976 Main St.
Jesse Michael

MMY Convenience Inc.
295 Allen St.
Zeiad Zaitoun

Neveteg Graphic Solutions
580 St. James Ave.
Gary Beaudry

New Generation Environment
99 Mill St.
Hector Suarez

NN Realty
91 Aspen Road
Nga Nguyen

Pampered Tresses
63 Bretton Road
Erika M. Clarke

Phenomenal Looks
680 Sumner Ave.
Ysabel Santana

Preferred Domestics Clean
70 Shumway St.
Gloria J. Durant

Puerto Rico Bakery
2917 Main St.
Aida L. Rodriguez

Quo Solus
235 State St.
Joseph Valentine

RYS Family Fashion
2460 Main St.
Luis E. Liriano

RJ Majowicz Electrical
65 Main St.
Robert J. Majowicz

Shooting Star Dance Center
1196 Parker St.
Carol A. Boardway

Springer’s Oil, LLC
40 Wisteria St.
Samuel S. Springer

Springfield’s Finest
427 State St.
Angel L. Castillo

Sublime Plus Inc.
152 Belmont Ave.
Usman Malik

Sunshine Cleaning and All
49 Andrew St.
Latoya Smith

Tazmania Gym Boxing
279 Mill St.
Juan Melendez

Thai Multi-Services
133 Vermont St.
Duong N. Thai

Therapeutic Massage
59 Wexford St.
Beth A. Morin

TMB Consultants
24 Dorne St.
Thomas M. Belton

Tufts Insurance Company
1441 Main St.
Tufts Insurance Company

Vemma413
63 Connecticut Ave.
Brandon Henry

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Bay State Instrument Repair
248 Elm St.
Carl G. Ippolito

Cosmoprof
1053 Riverdale St.
Kara Gamache

Elegant Nail
634 Kings Highway
Lien T. Tran

Global Sports Unlimited
1434 Memorial Ave.
Sergey Adamayan

Graphic Printing Company
233 Western Ave.
Enfield Printing

Integrative Health & Wellness
1111 Elm St.
Kathleen Marle

J.H. Miller Framing
86 Elm St.
James P. Hutchinson

Jumpin Jax Rentals, LLC
79 Wayside Ave.
Jamzson Quist

Life Uniform
935 Riverdale St.
Healthcare Uniform

Martin’s Upholstery
811 Memorial Ave.
Martin A. Dean

Mike’s Auto Service
173 River St.
Michael W. Zabik

Parsons Sewing Connection
2005 Riverdale St.
Marlene P. Warren

Sweeney Associates
84 Cedar Woods Glen
Kathleen H. Sweeney

The Official Cuts Barber
715 Main St.
Gabriel Martinez

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

Abysalh, Jason G.
Abysalh, Carrie E.
94 Fairview Park Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Arce, Elizabeth T.
34 Maple St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Baribeau, Robert R.
25 Norma St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/26/13

Bourgeois, Florence Joan
281 Chauncey Walker St.
Lot 341
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Colon, Luis R.
25 Warner St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Corkum, Robert L.
82 Pequoig Ave.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/29/13

Corriveau, Mary A.
73 Hendrick St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Depson, Craig Francis
31 Albermarle Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/13

DiCarlo, Judith E.
40 Woods Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

DiPenta, Kimberly Ann
a/k/a Cormier, Kimberly Ann
PO Box 60083
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Dobson, Robin A.
38 Hubbard Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Garrant, Buffie A.
38 Converse St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/13

Goodwin A/K/A Rodriguez, Carmen Delia
80 Pheasant Hill Dr.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/13

Greenleaf, Kathleen M.
9 Lakewood Dr.
Lake Onota Village
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Hamel, John J.
Hamel, Susan J.
201 West State St.
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Harris, Eileen M.
236 Sunrise Terrace
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/30/13

Hartnett, Richard B.
199 Meadow St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Jacobs, Angela J.
a/k/a Hall, Angela J.
234 Main St., Apt A
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Josefiak, Deborah M.
110 Towne St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Joubert, Jessica L.
10 Harwich Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Keating, Wayne W.
Keating, Linda A.
a/k/a Barnard, Linda A.
184 North St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Kibbie, Kimberley J.
a/k/a Pajak, Kimberley J.
a/k/a Wright, Kimberley J.
34 Hearthstone Terrace
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Lariviere, Russell J.
19 Parkin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/22/13

Lonczak, Daniel W.
Lonczak, Lisa M.
73 Bonneville Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/29/13

Lukasik Construction
Lukasik, Timothy R.
Lukasik, Melissa J.
a/k/a Richard, Melissa J.
12 Spence St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/13

Lynde-Williamson, Rebecca M.
a/k/a Rushford, Rebecca M.
a/k/a Tactuk, Rebecca M.
66 Montague City Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Maciolek, Kevin R.
40 Conrad St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/13

Marcoux, Laura A.
162 Mallard Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Martineau, Jason G.
80 Irving St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Marvici, Anthony D.
89 Kensington St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/22/13

McCarthy, Steven R.
McCarthy, Debra E.
a/k/a Soulier, Debra E.
1241 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/30/13

Mead, Brian J.
106 Plunkett St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/29/13

Mleczko, Edward Joseph
Parks-Mleczko, Nancy Ellen
20 Walnut St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/21/13

Monczka, Robert W.
Monczka, Faye L.
1545 East Mountain Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/18/13

Noyes, Eric R.
Noyes, Denise M.
65 Broz Terrace
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Petroff, Suanne
73 Mill Village Road
South Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/30/13

Pietras, Richard A.
53 Cabot St., Apt. 2B
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Polite, Maurice
1281 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

R & S Service Enterprises
Family Asset Holdings, Inc.
Three S Realty Trust, LLC
The Brass Tap
Laurin, Richard R.
24 Roosevelt Ave., 3rd Fl.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/30/13

Reeves, Kelly L.
44 Larkspur St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/13

Rule Transportation
Rule, Thomas M.
Rule, Joan D.
a/k/a McCormick, Joan D.
5 Everett St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/21/13

Sanchez, Isidoro R.
Sanchez, Francisca A.
53 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/24/13

Sheremet, Lyubov
28 Worcester St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/22/13

Simons, Scott M.
Simons, Mary L.
1016 Fred Snow Road
Becket, MA 01223
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Stark, Margaret J.
55 Kittredge Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/13

Steiner, Arnold F.
28 Chestnut St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Sulisz, Diane M.
73 Strong St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Sullivan, Colleen A.
a/k/a Lippiello, Colleen A.
1471 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/13

Szulc, Renata A.
20 Donlyn Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/13

Tatro, Josh R.
60 Willow Lane
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/22/13

Thibodeau, Edward
78 Oak St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/25/13

Walker, Charlene R.
2284 Main St.
Three Rivers, MA 01080
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/13

Warrington, Robert H.
Warrington, Margaret A.
44 Squier St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/13

Real Estate Transactions

By
Departments Real Estate

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

FRANKLIN COUNTY

ASHFIELD

646 Plainfield Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Robert Petrizzi
Seller: Richard B. Colby
Date: 08/22/13

228 Steady Lane
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Theodore Walls
Seller: Tammy L. Graves
Date: 08/23/13

1277 Williamsburg Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Deborah A. Reed
Seller: Anna J. MacNeish
Date: 08/23/13

BERNARDSTON

12 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $218,900
Buyer: Steven S. Hean
Seller: Laurie Fox
Date: 08/12/13

32 Depot St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $130,635
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank TR
Seller: Dwight S. Barrows
Date: 08/22/13

BUCKLAND

29 Avery Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Lisa L. Rubeck
Seller: Linda M. Vight
Date: 08/22/13

27 School St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $195,500
Buyer: Seth Wynne
Seller: Dale R. Macleod
Date: 08/21/13

CHARLEMONT

399 Legate Hill Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Carrie H. Ferretti
Seller: Lori A. Shulda-Merrigan
Date: 08/19/13

DEERFIELD

14 King Philip Ave.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Tatiana A. Goclowski
Date: 08/23/13

ERVING

34 Prospect St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $186,000
Buyer: Scott D. Nicholas
Seller: Eric A. Johnson
Date: 08/23/13

GREENFIELD

740 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Mary P. Watson
Seller: Elliottr Smolensky
Date: 08/19/13

879 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Aaron E. Maxam
Seller: Elise A. Rice IRT
Date: 08/13/13

9 Grinnell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Mary M. McManus
Seller: Mary M. McManus
Date: 08/14/13

72 Harrison Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Charles Herbert
Seller: Bunker IRT
Date: 08/14/13

109 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $234,500
Buyer: Marjorie D. Sobil
Seller: Jay E. Karetnick
Date: 08/23/13

Lampblack Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: James R. Schramel
Seller: Donna R. Proven
Date: 08/23/13

41 Old Albany Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Steven P. Koblinski
Seller: Judith C. Anderson
Date: 08/16/13

LEYDEN

780 Greenfield Road
Leyden, MA 01301
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Paul R. Fleischman RET
Seller: Mary A. Blackstone
Date: 08/19/13

MONTAGUE

7 Highland Circle
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Heidi M. Graves
Seller: Louise E. Traceski
Date: 08/12/13

75 Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Karen White
Seller: Michael A. Sevene
Date: 08/16/13

56 Turners Falls Road
Montague, MA 01301
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Bryan T. Niedbala
Seller: Alfred M. Broga
Date: 08/16/13

NORTHFIELD

225 Main St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: HL Investments LLC
Seller: Northfield Mt. Hermon School
Date: 08/15/13

276 Old Wendell Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Julia A. Blyth
Seller: Pamela J. Veith
Date: 08/12/13

SHUTESBURY

366 Leverett Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Elizabeth A. Loving
Seller: Diane Jacoby
Date: 08/14/13

SUNDERLAND

124 North Silver Lane
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Sean G. McCallen
Seller: R. B. Trainor
Date: 08/19/13

232 Russell St.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $285,500
Buyer: Krisha J. Gile
Seller: Larry D. Honeyman
Date: 08/16/13

WHATELY

122 Christian Lane
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Katelyn Hallowell
Seller: Karen R. Milch
Date: 08/16/13

251 Long Plain Road
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Heidi L. Canalizo
Seller: Neil D. Stairmand
Date: 08/16/13

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

49 Barney St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Christopher Malloy
Seller: Kevin Malloy
Date: 08/16/13

597 Barry St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Scott R. Pospolita
Date: 08/13/13

60 Beverly Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Richard J. Gamelli
Seller: Raymond E. Berthiaume
Date: 08/15/13

11 Bradford Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $199,900
Buyer: Darren Morace
Seller: Kevin J. Gaffney
Date: 08/16/13

80 Burlington Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Shaun M. Dwyer
Seller: Ivan Siryk
Date: 08/16/13

13 Campbell Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $167,500
Buyer: Patrick S. O’Hare
Seller: Robert Dyl
Date: 08/16/13

31 Cedar Knoll Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $369,000
Buyer: Michael J. Hutchinson
Seller: Alan L. Ferrigno
Date: 08/19/13

39 Chapin St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Buyer: Greg J. Hammerle
Seller: Christopher M. Izzo
Date: 08/23/13

47 Elm St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Geraldo V. Perez
Seller: Janice E. Reynolds
Date: 08/19/13

107 Fairview St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Andrea J. Fusick
Seller: Michael G. Fusick
Date: 08/15/13

76 Katherine Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Marcos Ramirez
Seller: Kevin T. O’Keefe
Date: 08/19/13

132 Liberty St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Danny M. Marsili
Seller: Desiree Gribi
Date: 08/12/13

20 Marlene Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Pamela Camerlin
Seller: Thomas P. Reilly
Date: 08/14/13

214 Maynard St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $329,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Dangelo
Seller: Steven E. Rovithis
Date: 08/21/13

739 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Jackuline Robinson
Seller: Mary E. Rosati
Date: 08/22/13

30 Pembroke Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Santino U. Valentino
Seller: Kenneth J. Askins
Date: 08/15/13

44 Riverview Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Stanislav Gvinter
Seller: Langone Realty Corp.
Date: 08/12/13

BLANDFORD

4 Beulah Land Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: John C. Zalot
Seller: Stephen C. Poteat
Date: 08/16/13

166 Chester Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Marjorie C. McNeill
Seller: Melanie Curran
Date: 08/15/13

Crooks Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Donna M. Gamble
Seller: Donna M. Gamble
Date: 08/20/13

CHESTER

9 Lynes Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $272,000
Buyer: Jerry L. Paquette
Seller: Kenneth R. Tessier
Date: 08/23/13

CHICOPEE

31 Alvord Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Edythe M. Ambroz
Seller: Lisa M. Labrie
Date: 08/15/13

44 Alvord Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $146,000
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank
Seller: David J. Fitz
Date: 08/19/13

54 Cambridge St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Ivan Litvac
Seller: Cabott Realty LLC
Date: 08/16/13

147 Grape St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: College Of Our Lady of the Elms
Seller: River Valley Counseling
Date: 08/20/13

1213 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Nathan H. Leitl
Seller: Richard Lavallee
Date: 08/20/13

37 Hajec Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Roman Catholic Bishop Of Springfield
Seller: Lucy I. Klaus
Date: 08/12/13

37 Harrington Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Brandon A. Staszko
Seller: Joyce A. Provoda
Date: 08/20/13

393 Irene St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Grazyna Pielecha
Seller: Larry E. Harris
Date: 08/20/13

402 Irene St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Laura E. Lanier
Seller: Irving I. Farber
Date: 08/23/13

193 Loomis Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Jennifer L. Fortuna
Seller: Thomas J. Maciolek
Date: 08/14/13

151 Mayflower Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Raymond P. Authier
Seller: Premier Home Builders Inc.
Date: 08/13/13

913 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $166,500
Buyer: Aaliyah Harris
Seller: Kenneth C. Boutin
Date: 08/21/13

186 Murphy Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Timothy E. Coyle
Seller: Janice B. Bridgman
Date: 08/15/13

469 Oldfield Road
Amount: $122,500
Buyer: Mayte L. Davila
Seller: Robert M. Hastings
Date: 08/13/13

66 Paradise St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Diane M. Borek
Seller: Richard P. Goncalves
Date: 08/20/13

125 Ruskin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $224,600
Buyer: Wheeler RET
Seller: First Central Baptist Church
Date: 08/15/13

29 Sherbrooke St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Luke A. Donahue
Seller: Virginia J. Stasiowski
Date: 08/15/13

1 Tanglewood St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $144,800
Buyer: Jeremy Lambert
Seller: Joseph A. Brosseau
Date: 08/23/13

201 Woodcrest Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Brian Fernandez
Seller: Robert Shattuck
Date: 08/23/13

EAST LONGMEADOW

12 Canterbury Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $362,000
Buyer: Ryan P. Lynch
Seller: Ian Dalton
Date: 08/14/13

Capri Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Kent Pecoy & Sons Construction
Seller: Bella Vista Land Holdings
Date: 08/12/13

183 Mapleshade Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Steve Marangoudakis
Seller: Donald K. Fricchione
Date: 08/16/13

251 Mapleshade Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Christopher J. McMahon
Seller: William T. Carabine
Date: 08/22/13

51 Pilgrim Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Gates
Seller: Huan Vanhuynh
Date: 08/22/13

321 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $146,000
Buyer: Aimee C. Bihler
Seller: Bianca P. Norton
Date: 08/12/13

76 Redin Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Stephen M. Extine
Seller: Carol A. Stone
Date: 08/14/13

22 Rogers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Marcy C. Racicot
Seller: Mary L. Haley
Date: 08/12/13

HOLLAND

3 Pine Tree Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $264,000
Buyer: Douglas C. Curving
Seller: Dianne B. Snieder
Date: 08/13/13

HOLYOKE

29 Magnolia Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Kenneth A. Voorhees
Seller: Agnes M. Connell
Date: 08/21/13

19 Raymond Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $127,900
Buyer: Michael R. Patenaude
Seller: Florence Savings Bank
Date: 08/23/13

35 Richard Eger Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Eric S. Wood
Seller: Coarnelius R. Dreger
Date: 08/16/13

25 Shawmut Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Donald Pelletier
Seller: Desrosiers, Leona G., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/13

30 Sunset Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Gerald Connell
Seller: Aldona Cebulak
Date: 08/21/13

LONGMEADOW

939 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Kuselias
Seller: Louis J. Concotilli
Date: 08/21/13

99 Deepwoods Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Rick G. Cianfaglione
Seller: E. P. Wagner
Date: 08/22/13

65 Forest Glen Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $396,250
Buyer: Hans J. Vonnahme
Seller: Todd E. Butler
Date: 08/16/13

144 Franklin Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Timber Development LLC
Seller: S. W. Goddard
Date: 08/22/13

120 Greenacre Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Lindsay B. Burns-Maloni
Seller: Rich G. Cianfaglione
Date: 08/22/13

1656 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Anthony E. English
Seller: Mary A. Downey
Date: 08/15/13

17 Merriweather Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Joseph L. Fontaine
Seller: Neil J. Maloney
Date: 08/23/13

157 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $367,500
Buyer: Patricia A. Clark
Seller: Glenn S. Anderson
Date: 08/12/13

58 Shady Side Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $399,000
Buyer: Kim D. Tanzer
Seller: Michael A. Zwirko
Date: 08/21/13

LUDLOW

776 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: William B. Crawford
Seller: Shawn D. Asselin
Date: 08/14/13

37 Bristol St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $131,500
Buyer: Stephen Sarrasin
Seller: Acasio Almeida
Date: 08/15/13

597 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: Joao A. Dias
Seller: John E. Ryan
Date: 08/14/13

25 Dale St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Brian H. Martins
Seller: Domingos Joao
Date: 08/12/13

364 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Zapgo LLC
Seller: Robin Wdowiak
Date: 08/14/13

50 King St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $195,900
Buyer: Ian Premo
Seller: Antonio Carvalho
Date: 08/13/13

721 Moore St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Stephen W. Ricardi
Seller: Joseph P. Cardaropoli
Date: 08/23/13

92 Parkview St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Edward H. Fillion
Seller: Judith G. Landers
Date: 08/23/13

10 Paul Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Diane H. Zina
Seller: Shirley H. Casimiro
Date: 08/12/13

MONSON

4 Country Club Dr.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $173,250
Buyer: Jeremy Bailey
Seller: Eric M. True
Date: 08/16/13

23 Green St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $134,300
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Michael P. Sousa
Date: 08/16/13

62 Palmer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Thomas C. Sandomierski
Seller: Sergey Savonin
Date: 08/12/13

MONTGOMERY

3 Birch Bluff Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Robert A. Doyle
Seller: Joseph L. Fontaine
Date: 08/23/13

N/A
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Scarfo Construction Inc.
Seller: Flynn, Eileen T., (Estate)
Date: 08/16/13

Southampton Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $140,000
Seller: Scarfo Construction Inc.
Date: 08/16/13

PALMER

4253 Church St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $217,500
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: David Chamberlain
Date: 08/14/13

2015 East St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $170,584
Buyer: Wells Fargo Financial
Seller: Patricia A. Narreau
Date: 08/19/13

4415 High St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Margaret A. Mileskie
Seller: Eric H. Niergarth
Date: 08/14/13

132 Shearer St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $198,777
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Gary E. Hilton
Date: 08/22/13

RUSSELL

570 Pine Hill Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Shane C. Cekovsky
Seller: Anthony J. Palazzo
Date: 08/22/13

SPRINGFIELD

44 Ashland Ave. #9
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Ya J. Chen
Seller: Kevin J. Czaplicki
Date: 08/14/13

142 Avery St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $144,282
Buyer: Pati RE Holdings LLC
Seller: Christopher Tiso
Date: 08/14/13

162 Bowles Park
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Jennifer A. Bertolasio
Seller: Courtines, Velma L., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/13

63 Bridle Path Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jess P. Wainscott
Seller: David S. Burnett
Date: 08/19/13

158 Bridle Path Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Brian D. Coelho
Seller: Sarah E. Bryson
Date: 08/15/13

102 Chalmers St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Neslie R. Pryce
Seller: Norman C. Michaels
Date: 08/20/13

274 Christopher Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $186,900
Buyer: Aminah M. Sallu-Lukulay
Seller: 50 By 50 REO 3 LLC
Date: 08/23/13

650 Cooley St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $117,500
Buyer: Sarai Andrades
Seller: Richard S. Harty
Date: 08/16/13

41 Copeland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $164,936
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: William J. Sullivan
Date: 08/12/13

14 Fairfield St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $169,900
Buyer: Kaelan A. Rhiannon
Seller: Thomas J. Rowland
Date: 08/12/13

38 Granger St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $234,000
Buyer: Kiyota Woods
Seller: Luke E. Hunter
Date: 08/19/13

116 Hampden St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $159,397
Buyer: MHFA
Seller: Luis A. Feliciano
Date: 08/21/13

96 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $900,000
Buyer: Hung T. Tu
Seller: Long K. Le
Date: 08/23/13

1091 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: 1095 Main Street IRT
Seller: NEC Family Enterprises 2
Date: 08/20/13

N/A
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $172,300
Buyer: Emily K. Herring
Seller: Daniel A. Britt
Date: 08/16/13

5 Nokomis St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Craig A. Belanger
Seller: Earl H. Thibodeau
Date: 08/16/13

55 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Jose L. Pedro
Seller: Maria R. Fortunato
Date: 08/23/13

30 Prentice St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $136,900
Buyer: Brenda S. Davis
Seller: Carlos L. Melendez
Date: 08/16/13

33 Rathbun St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Luis Cotto
Seller: Deborah L. Scharmann
Date: 08/23/13

23 Slater Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Travis R. Vaz
Seller: James M. Lage
Date: 08/14/13

16 Sunapee St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Lissette Martinez
Seller: William Raleigh
Date: 08/20/13

253 Sunrise Terrace
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Raymond Masso
Seller: Rosa Jusino
Date: 08/20/13

64 Treetop Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $195,125
Buyer: HSBC Mortgage Svcs. Inc.
Seller: Anthony L. Perry
Date: 08/21/13

36 Village Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Dawn M. Chaffee
Seller: Andrew C. Bordoni
Date: 08/20/13

19 Warner St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $218,000
Buyer: Luxiana Property LLC
Seller: Marie C. Rigaud
Date: 08/22/13

30 Wells St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Christopher Edge
Seller: Courtside Of Springfield
Date: 08/15/13

1425 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Alfred P. Cola
Seller: Robert L. Craig
Date: 08/16/13

201 Windemere St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Crystal L. Roy
Seller: Teresa A. Klein
Date: 08/23/13

107 Winton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $142,500
Buyer: Cynthia R. Carbonneau
Seller: Robert J. Bousquet
Date: 08/23/13

178 Wollaston St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: JV Properties Inc.
Seller: Martin A. Derrick
Date: 08/23/13

5 Woodland Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: Nathaniel J. Gilmore
Seller: My Ron A. Hatchett
Date: 08/16/13

SOUTHWICK

7 Deer Run
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $443,946
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Richard E. Tersavich
Date: 08/16/13

16 Foster Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jaydub LLC
Seller: Russell L. Ramah
Date: 08/23/13

313 Granville Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Joseph M. Lemoine
Seller: Louise R. Lamountain
Date: 08/15/13

5 Revere Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Christina L. Abbondanza
Seller: Ronald A. Teal
Date: 08/15/13

18 Sterrett Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $365,900
Buyer: Christopher R. Foreman
Seller: Ronald A. Nadeau
Date: 08/14/13

WALES

11 Main St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Robert B. MacDonald
Seller: Paul Vessio
Date: 08/13/13

WESTFIELD

45 Apple Blossom Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $221,000
Buyer: Brian R. Broderick
Seller: Sheila A. Lambert
Date: 08/16/13

41 Bailey Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Melissa A. Glynn
Seller: Scarfo Construction Inc.
Date: 08/21/13

90 City View Blvd
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Brian C. Miller
Seller: Paul P. Nowak
Date: 08/23/13

19 Eastview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $126,500
Buyer: SSMG LLC
Seller: Thomas R. Webster
Date: 08/23/13

6 Fowler St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Rafael R. Maldonado
Seller: Ashlea R. Miller
Date: 08/23/13

78 Granville Road #8
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $326,298
Buyer: Karen M. Regan
Seller: Granville Road LLC
Date: 08/23/13

80 Highland Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Michael P. Sadowski
Seller: Elizabeth A. Butcher
Date: 08/23/13

33 King St.
Amount: $137,500
Buyer: Robert Daigneault
Seller: Steven A. Andrews
Date: 08/20/13

125 Montgomery St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $201,637
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Patricia M. Tower
Date: 08/16/13

160 North Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $273,500
Buyer: Joel S. Mollison
Seller: Deboroah S. Harris
Date: 08/20/13

215 Notre Dame St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $154,635
Buyer: Andrew H. Joseph
Seller: Michael P. Sadowski
Date: 08/23/13

7 Phyllis Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $268,000
Buyer: Julieann L. Schortmann
Seller: Kenneth L. Ridley
Date: 08/15/13

139 Springdale Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $135,600
Buyer: Robert A. Gauthier
Seller: George J. Fitch
Date: 08/23/13

33 Squawfield Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $252,500
Buyer: Gregory A. Denys
Seller: Marcel H. Frere
Date: 08/13/13

74 Westwood Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $227,000
Buyer: James Dinopoulos
Seller: Paul Smith
Date: 08/15/13

83 Wyben Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Arlene E. Bednaz
Seller: Richard P. O’Connor
Date: 08/19/13

WILBRAHAM

6 Cedar Ridge Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $419,134
Buyer: Richard A. Charpentier
Seller: Mile Oak Land Holdings LLC
Date: 08/12/13

5 Laurel Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: David S. Burnett
Seller: Steven M. Sady
Date: 08/19/13

25 Rochford Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Gregory Bernat
Seller: William R. Cusson
Date: 08/23/13

26 W. Colonial Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $398,000
Buyer: Bryand E. Brenes
Seller: Charles K. Abro
Date: 08/20/13

WEST SPRINGFIELD

37 Avondale Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Lal Khadka
Seller: Keith D. Bowes
Date: 08/14/13

29 Bowers St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Joseph Machnecz
Seller: Rosann Desrosiers

146 City View Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Olga I. Lopez
Seller: Dickson, Dorothy M., (Estate)
Date: 08/19/13

184 Laurel Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Jacqueline L. Bell
Seller: Diane E. Gallup
Date: 08/16/13

Mulcahy Dr. #22
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: David J. Piacentini
Seller: Francis Wheeler Construction
Date: 08/16/13

90 Nelson Circle
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $174,900
Buyer: Nicholas A. Bull
Seller: Daniel J. Garrity
Date: 08/12/13

492 Prospect Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $3,250,000
Buyer: MWF Realty LLC
Seller: Fountain Prospect Realty
Date: 08/14/13

166 Robinson Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $169,500
Buyer: Patricia A. Schufreider
Seller: William J. Powers
Date: 08/12/13

68 Smyrna St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Sarabeth G. Caplette
Seller: Matthew J. Scytkowski
Date: 08/14/13

105 Van Horn St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $204,900
Buyer: Matthew J. Scytkowski
Seller: Ryan P. Lynch
Date: 08/14/13

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

104 Dana St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Rosemary A. Cowell
Seller: Rachel R. Hexter
Date: 08/22/13

623 East Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Michaeel E. Williamson
Seller: Judith R. Ashkin
Date: 08/19/13

75 Larkspur Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Marc S. Osten
Seller: David G. Doctor
Date: 08/15/13

Leverett Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $116,000
Buyer: Joslad & Associates PC
Seller: Bernard F. Mikelis LT
Date: 08/14/1

27 South Prospect St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $362,545
Buyer: Benjamin Beiley
Seller: Donald S. Pitkin RET
Date: 08/20/13

BELCHERTOWN

17 2 Ponds Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Himanshu Patel
Seller: Whitney Mollica
Date: 08/22/13

80 Granby Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $338,000
Buyer: Jonathan W. Ritter
Seller: Carriage Town Homes LLC
Date: 08/20/13

20 Hemlock Hollow
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $292,573
Buyer: Freedom Mortgage Corp.
Seller: Kevin M. Hughes
Date: 08/16/13

141 Metacomet St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Daniel A. Bergeron
Seller: William M. Booth
Date: 08/15/13

425 Michael Sears Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Ronald T. Galen
Seller: 425 Sears TR
Date: 08/19/13

469 Michael Sears Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Wendy A. Bowers
Seller: Joseph M. Lemoine
Date: 08/15/13

196 Old Enfield Road
Amount: $468,000
Buyer: David R. O’Brien
Seller: Gordon Bjorkman
Date: 08/23/13

203 Orchard St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Jeffrey N. Cosgrove
Seller: Eileen A. Casella
Date: 08/23/13

97 South Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $268,500
Buyer: Katherine Bousquet
Seller: Michael J. Czepiel
Date: 08/16/13

46 Wilson Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Peter J. Czapienski
Seller: David P. Jones
Date: 08/16/13

CHESTERFIELD

228 Sugar Hill Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Thomas S. Vincent
Seller: Diane M. Pfisterer
Date: 08/16/13

EASTHAMPTON

82 Ferry St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Megan R. Scott
Seller: Jeremy A. Hebert
Date: 08/16/13

238 Hendrick St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Paul J. Wysocki
Seller: Jean K. Canon
Date: 08/16/13

1 Lovefield St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Triple C LLC
Seller: Liberty Field LLC
Date: 08/14/13

4 Valley Lane
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $283,000
Buyer: John J. Mingrone
Seller: Michael J. Schrauben
Date: 08/13/13

13 West St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $287,500
Buyer: Shirlee B. Williams
Seller: Suzanne O’Donnell
Date: 08/22/13

GRANBY

240 Carver St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Stephanie N. Granger
Seller: Stephen J. Guenette
Date: 08/15/13

499 East State St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Denis Laflamme
Seller: Jacqueline Bell
Date: 08/16/13

Maximilian Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: CIL Realty of Mass. Inc.
Seller: East State Street NT
Date: 08/16/13

204 School St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Joshua N. Broussard
Seller: Jeanne Yocum
Date: 08/20/13

HADLEY

7 Indian Pipe Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $699,000
Buyer: Ajla Aksamija
Seller: Bercume Construction LLC
Date: 08/23/13

26 Mount Warner Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Jeffrey T. Reynolds
Seller: Gideon Y. Freudmann
Date: 08/22/13

36 North Maple St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $267,500
Buyer: Austen Iglehart
Seller: Kazimiera Szlaban
Date: 08/23/13

108 Rocky Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Bruce D. Montague
Seller: Elaine Aldrich
Date: 08/14/13

23 Rocky Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $297,500
Buyer: Dennis C. Morin
Seller: Kathleen Miller
Date: 08/15/13

8 Wampanoag Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Quentin S. Amrani
Seller: Christopher C. Slack
Date: 08/16/13

HATFIELD

8 Woodridge Circle
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Honora G. Gordon
Seller: John H. Zieminski
Date: 08/19/13

HUNTINGTON

70 Goss Hill Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Garrett T. Barsalou
Seller: Kelso, Edward A., (Estate)
Date: 08/20/13

138 Pond Brook Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: William C. Madden
Seller: Nettler Green LT
Date: 08/15/13

NORTHAMPTON

621 Burts Pit Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Hurn
Seller: Harry L. Hoar
Date: 08/12/13

86 Cahillane Terrace
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Brian Campedelli
Seller: Matthew L. Owen
Date: 08/13/13

262 Crescent St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Patrice M. Sabach
Seller: Christopher Laflamme
Date: 08/15/13

22 Dickinson St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $356,000
Buyer: Krista L. Carothers
Seller: Nathan S. Korza
Date: 08/23/13

100 Front St.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $274,000
Buyer: Laurie B. Foley
Seller: Thomas F. Quinn
Date: 08/19/13

35 Hatfield St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Mohamed R. Abdulazeez
Seller: Henry J. Kowalski
Date: 08/19/13

33 Harlow Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Andrew B. Dahlberg
Seller: Janet R. Dahlberg
Date: 08/16/13

96 Island Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $186,000
Buyer: Gail F. Lysiak
Seller: R. Jalbert&M Sullivan RET
Date: 08/12/13

100 Maple Ridge Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $575,500
Buyer: Matthew E. Page
Seller: Emil J. Kobylarz

107 Massasoit St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $353,000
Buyer: Tor A. Krogius
Seller: Lairie B. Foley
Date: 08/19/13

111 Nonotuck St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $387,500
Buyer: Bruce Frankel
Seller: Sara R. Page
Date: 08/16/13

140 Pine St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $321,500
Buyer: 40 Main Street LLC
Seller: City Of Northampton
Date: 08/22/13

110 Prospect Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Nathan S. Korza
Seller: Sarah C. Barrett
Date: 08/19/13

405 Ryan Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: C. P. Andrikidis
Seller: John J. Glenowicz
Date: 08/16/13

114 South Main St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $690,000
Buyer: Charlene E. Choi
Seller: Nancy W. Denig

168 South Main St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Scott E. Evans
Seller: Melitta Carnevale
Date: 08/13/13

3 Tyler Court
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $900,000
Buyer: Cheryl A. Jacques
Seller: MLG RT
Date: 08/15/13

93 Washington Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $538,000
Buyer: William J. Corwin
Seller: Amy B. Morse
Date: 08/15/13

PELHAM

47 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Mark Lange
Seller: Joan S. Leavitt
Date: 08/21/13

PLAINFIELD

64 Old South St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Michael R. Packard
Seller: Joseph Freeland
Date: 08/15/13

SOUTH HADLEY

47 Charon Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Jonathan S. Szymonik
Seller: Ian D. Premo
Date: 08/12/13

104 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $233,000
Buyer: Farrah Matta
Seller: Norma I. Resto
Date: 08/23/13

16 Linda St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Bryan J. Lynes
Seller: Eleanor Dauphinais IRT
Date: 08/20/13

520 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Bernard D. Gelinas
Seller: Richard Theriault
Date: 08/16/13

11 Silverwood Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Buyer: Nancy A. Dinn
Seller: E. Muriel Allen TR
Date: 08/16/13

70 Woodbridge St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Matthew S. Bertuzzi
Seller: Andrew Clendinneng
Date: 08/23/13

193 Woodbridge St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $258,500
Buyer: Carole A. Camp
Seller: Jihn W. Malone
Date: 08/15/13

SOUTHAMPTON

8 Bluemer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $219,648
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Wayne F. Demers
Date: 08/23/13

5 Buchanan Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Vincent S. Turgeon
Seller: John Zalot
Date: 08/16/13

42 Line St.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Angelica F. Trenholm
Seller: Carl E. Osepowicz
Date: 08/22/13

53 Moose Brook Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $219,500
Buyer: Donald N. Bernier
Seller: David L. Neal
Date: 08/15/13

27 Mountain View Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $168,500
Buyer: Evan R. Huff
Seller: James J. Jackowski
Date: 08/23/13

12 Rattle Hill Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $122,000
Buyer: John Dafonte
Seller: Michael L. McKnight
Date: 08/19/13

WARE

270 Old Gilbertville Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Gregory W. Eaton
Seller: Melissa C. Martin
Date: 08/12/13

111 Walker Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $318,500
Buyer: Robert E. Provencal
Seller: Provencal Demer NT
Date: 08/16/13

WESTHAMPTON

148 Northwest Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: David L. Popham
Seller: Joseph Hvishaway
Date: 08/19/13

WILLIAMSBURG

20 Petticoat Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: John W. Selfridhe
Seller: Briam W. Breed
Date: 08/20/13

Building Permits

By
Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of September 2013.

AGAWAM

Robert Fagin
700 Silver St.
$175,000 — Install new roof system

CHICOPEE

AM Lithography
694 Center St.
$58,000 — Exterior renovations

City of Chicopee
115 Baskin Ave.
$85,000 — Remodel DPW offices

First Spiritualist Church
465 Granby Road
$22,000 — Install new fire alarm system

Fishman Realty Trust
639 Memorial Dr.
$785,000 — Construct new drive-thru restaurant

HCS Headstart
30 Griffith Road
$6,000 — Interior renovation

HD Development
655 Memorial Dr.
$65,000 — Remodel bathroom

Lady of the Elm’s
291 Springfield St.
$158,000 — Interior renovations

Riverbend Medical Group
444 Montgomery St.
$96,000 — Renovate existing space

Riverbend Medical Group
444 Montgomery St.
$150,000 — Remodel dermatology area

EASTHAMPTON

Donald Lamoureaux
60-62 Main St.
$14,000 — Install exhaust system for commercial kitchen

Kevin Perrier
123-133 Union St.
$29,000 — Tenant space build out

Russell Braen
82 Park Hill Road
$88,000 — Addition for accessible toilets

Peter Tobin
54 O’Neil St.
$56,000 — Re-roof

SOUTH HADLEY

New State Inc.
69 Lathrop St.
$4,000 — Repairs

NORTHAMPTON

Coca Cola Company
45 Industrial Dr.
$443,000 — Construct wastewater treatment facility

Colvest/Northampton, LLC
327 King St.
$1,200,000 — Interior tenant fit out for Baystate Health

Edwards Church of Northampton
279 Main St.
$58,000 — Interior renovations

Emerald City Partners
17 New South St.
$322,000 — Renovate third floor office space

HS Gere & Sons Inc.
115A Conz St.
$220,000 — Construct foundation only for a hotel

Middle Hampshire Development Group
70 Main St.
$1,475,000 — Construct 4,800-square-foot addition

Northampton Holdings, LP
180 North King St.
$202,000 — Replace existing roof at Walmart

Old School Commons Limited
17 New south St.
$95,000 — Replace slate roof

Smith College
79 Elm St.
$11,005,000 — Phase 1B, Interior renovations

Smith College
100 Green St.
$95,000 — Install solar panels in Ford Hall

Smith College
144 Green St.
$168,000 — Install replacement windows

Smith College
129 West St.
$203,000 — Install replacement windows in the Facilities building

PALMER

Eric Sanderson
2 Wilbraham St.
$39,000 — Commercial roofing

SOUTHWICK

Pride Stores, LLC
198 College Highway
$250,000 — Build new gas station

SPRINGFIELD

Baystate Health
759 Chestnut Ave.
$47,000 — Install nurse reception area

Dinesh Patel
851 E. Columbus Ave.
$4,284,000 — Construct new six-story building

Eastfield Associates
1655 Boston Post Road
$8,000 — Renovate 585 square feet of space

Jewish Community Center
1160 Dickinson St.
$114,000 — New roof

Northstar Pulp and Paper Company
89 Guion St.
$75,000 — Install new overhead doors

Springfield Housing Authority
82 Division St.
$17,000 — Interior renovations

WESTFIELD

FRP Holdings, LLC
64 Main St.
$9,000 — Interior repairs

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Town of West Springfield
1 Unico Way
$901,000 — Building upgrades at the Unico building

Slavic Pentecostal Church
2611 Westfield St.
$16,000 — Renovate existing room into coffee bar

Town of West Springfield
385 Morton St.
$27,000 — Erect pavilion at Cook’s Playground

Generation Next

By
Cover Story
Why Workplaces Must Nurture the Millennial

Charles Schewe

Charles Schewe says businesses need to harness the strengths of Millennials, from their idealism and confidence to their entrepreneurial bent and technological savvy.

Charles Schewe recalls a conversation he had with the head of a local bank, who told him about a recent interview with a young job seeker.
“He told me one of these guys came in, and halfway through the interview he said, ‘every day from 1:30 to 3, I go to the gym; I hope you can accommodate that.’”
That interviewee isn’t alone; the generation known as Millennials — who currently range in age from 13 to their early 30s — have a reputation for demanding work-life flexibility.
“Older people say, ‘what, are these people crazy?’” Schewe said. “There’s a sense that this is inappropriate, and we have to change them. But wait a minute — there are 72 million of them.”
Schewe, an author and professor of Marketing at the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, has been studying generational differences for more than 20 years. His most recent book — Defining Markets, Defining Moments: America’s 7 Generational Cohorts, Their Shared Experiences, and Why America Should Care — distills much of that research and applies it to the marketplace.
He says the Millennials — the second-largest generation in American history, behind the Baby Boomers — have arrived in the workforce with the baggage of a reputation for being lazy, entitled, narcissistic, and restless, perceptions that are, in many cases, exaggerated at best.
But whatever they bring to the business world, both positive and negative, Schewe said, their Boomer and Gen-X employers and managers had better learn how to incorporate their very distinct work styles. “Baby Boomers came up with casual Fridays; now it’s casual every day, and people at the top can’t change that. We need to learn to love them, not leave them, because they are the future of the workforce.
“The demographics are evident,” he reiterated. “There are 72 million of them marching into their 20s and early 30s, and they’re a force to be reckoned with, both in the marketplace and especially in the workplace.”

Tumultuous Times
The first step in dealing with Millennials, Schewe said, is understanding them and recognizing the factors that have shaped them. The term ‘cohort’ isn’t precisely a synonym for ‘generation,’ but a parallel to it, representing a group of people connected and shaped by common experiences.
“There’s a perception of Millennials out there — that they’re entitled, they’re lazy, they want everything but don’t want to give much, and so on. But that may not be true,” he told BusinessWest. “In the work I do and have done for the last 20 or so years with generational cohorts, there’s an understanding that what happens to us, what we experience from our environment and events — particularly hugely cataclysmic events when we’re coming of age, roughly 17 to 23 years of age — creates values that remain relatively stable in our lives.”
There are recent historical examples of this, he explained. “People in their 90s who experienced the Great Depression still save. The ones who went through World War II are still the most patriotic of any age group. Each group has different sets of values from the other groups, and yet there’s a cohesion of values within each group.”
The Millennials, who were born roughly between 1980 and 2000 — although some set the dates as far ahead as 1984 to 2004 — are, by either account, the second-largest cohort the U.S. has ever seen, trailing only the Baby Boomers. The earliest of them came of age during the rise of the Internet, and that has become perhaps their most important cultural touchstone.
“The introduction of the Internet changed everything,” Schewe said. Notably, it ushered in a brief moment of economic hope, followed by disillusionment, which then set the stage for the disappointments of the past decade.
“We didn’t know it at the time, but look back and see how different the world was in the late 1990s,” he said. “Young people all thought they would retire by 30 — they’d get an Internet company going and sell it off. But the [dot-com] bubble burst in 2000, then we had 9/11, then the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.”
That was followed in short order by the global implosion of the financial markets in 2008 and the Great Recession, all of which has brought worry to a generation otherwise known for its confidence and high levels of education. But the Internet spawned something else as well — the sense of being connected to a global community, combined with a drive for technological advancement.
“The Internet has morphed into a constancy of change, and a media change — the life expectancy of a cell phone today is 18 months, and then we’ve got to get something new,” Schewe said. “We have this sense of constant speed. This sense of urgency and speed of change is a value Millennials have.”
Other factors — from the first African-American president to the scandals of Enron and Bernie Madoff; from the incompetence following Hurricane Katrina to the shootings at Columbine, Virginia Tech, and Newtown — have also coalesced into the Millennial generation’s unique mix of idealism and skepticism.

Workplace Revolution
But how does this youngest sector of the workforce interact on the job? That’s where executives and managers begin to wring their hands.
“I would say the cohort gap between Millennials and older managers is dramatic,” Schewe said. “There’s a huge gap and huge conflict between older managers who expect some sort of respect, and young people who come in and call the CEO by his first name; older people aren’t used to that. [Young workers] come in and dress the way they want to, and they expect that’s acceptable.”
They also have a reputation for casual irreverence that, as a professor, Schewe says is not completely unearned.
“I need to put on the syllabus that I prefer to be called Professor Schewe; they’ll call me Charles or Schewe, like, ‘hey, Schewe, when’s the exam?’ Or they’ll walk out the door to go to the bathroom in the middle of class — but they only do that once,” he told BusinessWest.
“They don’t have the respect for older people” that previous generations have shown, he continued. “We always thought wisdom, age, and experience had some sort of status … but that isn’t the way now. In part, it’s because they’re on top of things more than we are, particularly the technological advancements, and that gives them a sense of superiority over older people. In the past, there was some expectation of deference, but nowadays it’s just assumed we’re on an equal plane.”
The Millennial reputation for restlessness is also borne out by recent career trends. “On average,” he said, “a college graduate will have three career shifts by the age of 30. That’s not the way it was when this boy went into the job market. You were loyal to General Motors, and if you were lucky enough, you had a job all your life. Today, if they’re not happy, they’re likely to take your investment in them and go somewhere else.”
To slow down that revolving door — and avoid the costs of constantly recruiting, hiring, and training new employees — he said companies need to create a sense of community among their employees, as that’s something young workers crave.
“They’ve always been put in teams, even in school. They’re used to working with people,” Schewe said, noting that today’s forward-thinking companies are built much more around collaboration than in the past — and feature communal activities outside the office as well — because Millennials tend to be happier in such an environment. Again, he noted, if they’re not happy, they’ll jump ship.
Meanwhile, “they’re also extremely entrepreneurial, so give them challenges they can jump on, and they can take with them a sense of success, of being their own boss. That will make them more incentivized. And, of course, they’re multi-taskers, so give them multiple projects at the same time.”
The generation’s technological savvy can benefit the workforce in multiple, and often unexpected, ways, Schewe noted. For instance, it can become a sort of reverse mentorship, with Millennials teaching their managers about ways to incorporate new technology in the workplace.
That’s not easy for some older supervisors, who tend to look at employees below them in the managerial hierarchy as somehow lacking, he went on “when, in fact, they have skills and opportunities to guide managers above them. Companies should take advantage of that, and Millennials feel good about that. These people are far more creative and innovative in their thinking than prior generational cohorts.”
In addition, “they’re not going to be satisfied if they’re forced to do menial tasks; they need to be challenged,” he noted. “If, in their situation, they’re not being challenged, the company ought to think about moving them laterally — not down, because they’ll feel undervalued — but move laterally to find that sense of challenge.”

Changing Tides
Evidence suggests plenty of reluctance to embrace the Millennial way; recruiting firm Adecco found in a 2012 study that hiring managers were three times more likely to hire a worker over the age of 50 as they were to hire someone between 18 and 32. And 75% of managers in the survey said Millennials’ biggest job-seeking mistake was wearing inappropriate clothing to the interview, while 70% cited potentially compromising social-media content as a red flag to hiring.
But Schewe said Millennials bring plenty of positives as well, including their well-honed sense of idealism. While previous generations dreamed of working for a large company and making a large salary, today’s college students are just as likely to say they want to improve the world in some way. Others say money is less important than doing work that gratifies them or offers scheduling flexibility or work-life balance, so they have time to pursue their other interests.
“As an employer, how do you harness that? The answer is, you can shift the company — as any company should be doing anyway — in order to be more consistent with the marketplace, more into social responsibility, sustainability, even volunteerism. It’s unbelievable what my students do in terms of volunteering. It’s so pervasive at the university. They value that, and you as a company ought to tap into that,” he said, either by sponsoring programs or offering time off to pursue such activities.
The bottom line, he said, is that the career landscape will gradually be overtaken by a highly educated cohort — more than two-thirds of high-school graduates now go on to college, as opposed to 45% in 1960 — with much different ideas of how a workplace should operate.
Some Millennial habits seem odder than others — for instance, stories abound of young people bringing their helicopter parents to job interviews. And it’s not entirely predictable how the recent recession and a still-contracted job market will change the economic values of today’s college students.
Whatever the case, Boomers and Gen-Xers need to be ready, Schewe said.
“The point is, as an older cohort with a different set of values, you can’t just say, ‘they’ve got to bend to us; we’re not going to bend to them.’ There are just too many of them, and their values are too pervasive and too deeply embedded to be ignored.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Building Permits

By
Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of September 2013.

AGAWAM

Aesha Management, LLC
632-634 Springfield St.
$50,000 — New storefront and renovations

CHICOPEE

Century 21 A-1 Nolan
73 Waite Ave.
$6,000 — Strip and re-roof

City of Chicopee
31 Springfield St.
$191,000 — Remove asbestos contaminated material

Center Group, LLC
13 Center St.
$75,000 — Enlarge bathroom and elevator shaft

Francais Properties, LLC
60 Haynes Circle
$240,000 — Remodel existing warehouse with new houses

Friendly’s Ice Cream
529 Memorial Dr.
$6,000 — New siding

Montogomery Development Group
21 Baystate Road
$525,000 — Construction of a dental office

OSG of Chicopee
1505 Memorial Dr.
$200,000 — Remodel interior of Chicopee Urgent Care Center

Riverbend Medical Group
444 Montgomery St.
$18,000 — Modifications to existing ductwork

Slats Realty Trust
14 Sheridan St.
$9,000 — Strip and re-roof

EASTHAMPTON

Autumn Properties, LLC
247-251 Northampton St.
$9,500 — Install partitions to create office space

CIL Realty of MA Inc.
296 Loudville Road
$465,000 — Construct a 3,200-square-foot group home

Kevin Perrier
123-133 Union St.
$17,000 — Interior renovation for office space

Trinity Lutheran Church
2 Clark St.
$3,000 — Replacement windows

SOUTH HADLEY

Center for Redevelopment
29 College St.
$5,000 — Install siding

NORTHAMPTON

Caroline Gottlieb
49 Market St.
$5,000 — Exterior repairs

Dori Mead
186 Main St.
$56,000 — Interior renovation for Dobra Tea

Eugene Mongeon
26 Trumbull Road
$4,000 — Roof repairs

Richard Finck
63 Main St.
$8,000 — New roof

Evert Fowle
16 Center St.
$3,000 — Replace ceiling

Main Street Properties, LLC
92 Main St.
$51,000 — Install 44 rooftop solar panels

Maplewood Shops Inc.
2 Conz St.
$10,000 — Install replacement windows

Northampton Treatment Facility
170 Glendale Road
$4,000 — Replace antenna panel

Peter Whalen
7 Old South St.
$24,000 — Install 40 replacement windows

Smith College
College Lane
$30,500 — New suspended ceiling in Ainsworth Gym

Smith College
Neilson Dr.
$25,000 — Laundry room renovation in Washburn House

Smith College
West St.
$12,500 — Dormer repairs at Lilly Hall

William Mock
106 Damon Road
$3,806 — Repair building from auto accident

PALMER

Ronald Foskit
18 Barker St.
$5,000 — Strip existing shingles and re-roof two buildings

SOUTHWICK

Roof Maintenance and Systems
542 College Highway
$89,000 — Re-roof

SPRINGFIELD

1350 Main St., LLC
1350 Main St.
$109,000 — Renovation of office space

3640 Main St., LLC
3640 Main St.
$174,000 — Build out of 6,000 square feet of tenant space

Bethany Road Properties, LLC
121 Memorial Dr.
$181,000 — Build out for offices

Boriquen Apt. Limited
2748 Main St.
$28,000 — Install frame out to provide for office use

Springfield College
263 Alden St.
$10,000 — Create student post office

WGBY
44 Hampden St.
$59,000 — New roof

WESTFIELD

Rosow Westfield, LLC
66 South Broad St.
$9,500 — Interior repairs

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Center for Human Development
332 Birnie Ave.
$6,000 — Office renovation

Mansfield Paper
380 Union St.
$5,000 — Replaced damaged wall

Pearson Limited Partnership
61 Century Way
$5,000 — Office renovation

Troy Industries
151 Capital Dr.
$210,000 — Strip and re-roof

Real Estate Transactions

By
Departments Real Estate

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

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BERNARDSTON

147 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $154,000
Buyer: Thomas V. Newton
Seller: Denison, Frances E., (Estate)
Date: 08/09/13

14 Turners Falls Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $148,500
Buyer: Danny L. Hescock
Seller: Riley, Donnabelle N., (Estate)
Date: 07/30/13

BUCKLAND

59 Charlemont Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Tomothy J. Budrewicz
Seller: James A. Budrewicz
Date: 07/31/13

115 Elm St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $318,600
Buyer: Katherine M. Haydock
Seller: Gail R. Hall
Date: 08/09/13

CONWAY

116 Elm St.
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Palmer L. Yurica
Seller: Ovitt, Ralph B., (Estate)
Date: 07/30/13

DEERFIELD

26 Pleasant Ave.
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Jonathan Talbot
Seller: Bruce K. Culver
Date: 07/29/13

GILL

479 Main Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Lea Banks
Seller: Mary E. Norrman
Date: 07/30/13

69 South Cross Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Margaret K. Vidrine
Seller: Gary M. Weber
Date: 07/31/13

GREENFIELD

104 Davis St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Ion Virlizanu
Seller: Petru Balan
Date: 08/05/13

71 Laurel St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: SD&CM Pitcher RET
Seller: Michelle A. Roberge
Date: 08/05/13

403 Log Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Kenneth F. Pleasant
Seller: Loretta A. Pinson
Date: 07/31/13

98 South Shelburne Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Brian D. Godin
Seller: Toddy A. Bolvin
Date: 07/31/13

LEVERETT

410 Long Plain Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $274,900
Buyer: Jason C. Viadero
Seller: Marvin T. Ellin
Date: 08/09/13

MONTAGUE

4 Grand Ave.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: James G. Martineau
Seller: FNMA
Date: 07/30/13

6 Willmark Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Caroline L. McDade
Seller: Daniel E. Arsenault
Date: 07/31/13

NEW SALEM

264 Wendell Road
New Salem, MA 01355
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Elizabeth R. Young
Seller: Rodney W. Bixby
Date: 07/31/13

NORTHFIELD

295 Birnam Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $197,000
Buyer: Stacy L. Walsh
Seller: John F. Foster
Date: 08/09/13

564 Mount Hermon Station Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Erica M. Smith
Seller: Cindy S. Dikeman
Date: 07/31/13

SHUTESBURY

147 Baker Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Alan Condron
Seller: Catherine D. Youngen
Date: 07/31/13

SUNDERLAND

22 South Plain Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $242,000
Buyer: Susan J. Shepard
Seller: Leslie Ann Stiles TR
Date: 07/31/13

WARWICK

718 Orange Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: David B. Kelly
Seller: Peter D. Hubbard
Date: 08/07/13

WHATELY

129 Christian Lane
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $635,000
Buyer: Richard Pedersen
Seller: Howard P. Beaudry
Date: 08/01/13

North St. (WS)
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $541,000
Buyer: Owl Hill NT
Seller: Ralph K. Farrick Funding TR
Date: 08/06/13

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

34 Charles St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: Michael F. Roy
Seller: Monty LLC
Date: 08/08/13

19 High Meadow Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Darryl R. Page
Seller: Mark R. Langevin
Date: 07/31/13

7 Marla Place
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Kristin M. Strycharz
Seller: Dave Sanders
Date: 08/05/13

131 Moore St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $153,675
Buyer: Vanderbilt Mtg. & Financial Inc.
Seller: Michael Price
Date: 08/08/13

596 North St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Richard N. Majkowski
Seller: Mary A. Couture
Date: 07/31/13

34 Park St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Frank J. Bond
Seller: Michael A. Lacaresse
Date: 07/29/13

60 Red Fox Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $225,900
Buyer: Michael A. Lacaresse
Seller: Donald C. Bjorklund
Date: 07/29/13

26 Royal St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Mark Kenney
Seller: Raeann Sarsfield
Date: 08/02/13

915 Shoemaker Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $260,500
Buyer: Jeannette Oyola
Seller: Shaun M. Dwyer
Date: 07/31/13

80 Simpson Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $188,250
Buyer: Brendan Culver
Seller: Gene M. Karam
Date: 08/02/13

118 Thalia Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Kenneth Backlund
Seller: Joseph P. Cipcic
Date: 08/06/13

BRIMFIELD

10 Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Aura Ent. Inc.
Seller: Laura P. May
Date: 08/02/13

Sturbridge Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Buyer: Andrew B. Worden
Seller: Springfield Boys Club Inc.
Date: 07/30/13

CHESTER

92 Lyon Hill Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: John Ringeling
Seller: Janice F. Voorhis
Date: 08/01/13

CHICOPEE

73 Boulay Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Collin C. Edwards
Seller: Yuk Shan
Date: 07/31/13

160 Bridle Path Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Julie A. Kukahiko
Seller: Jon R. Abbott
Date: 07/31/13

544 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Noreen B. Candon
Seller: Kathleen D. Laclair
Date: 08/01/13

85 Call St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Juan A. Deleon
Seller: James E. Seymour
Date: 08/07/13

451 East Main St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: Christina Loy
Seller: Dennis Cook
Date: 08/01/13

49 Fairfield Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Tony Tereso
Seller: Fred M. Sliwa
Date: 07/29/13

111 Garland St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Donald J. Laplante
Seller: Hazel J. Levan
Date: 07/29/13

25 Henry Harris St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $131,000
Buyer: Kelly J. Colkos
Seller: Jennifer M. Gallant
Date: 08/07/13

28 Kane Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $141,500
Buyer: Edward H. Greeno
Seller: Deborah S. Stec
Date: 07/31/13

Lombard Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $2,137,500
Buyer: Blue Bird MHC LLC
Seller: GL Realty LLC
Date: 07/30/13

501 Memorial Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Chick Fil A Inc.
Seller: Columbus Ave. Realty LLC
Date: 08/06/13

32 Morris St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $155,000
Seller: MHFA
Date: 08/09/13

518 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Waycon Inc.
Seller: Edward Kleciak
Date: 08/02/13

552 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $184,000
Buyer: Daniel R. Lowe
Seller: Kyle Thibeault
Date: 08/02/13

23 Pleasant St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $147,900
Buyer: Manuel A. Salgado
Seller: John J. Moccio
Date: 08/02/13

42 Poplar St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $151,000
Buyer: Eugene V. Gruszka
Seller: Michelle L. Gamelli
Date: 07/30/13

40 Randall St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $134,000
Buyer: Robert A. Tardiff
Seller: Sophie M. Malikowski
Date: 08/08/13

16 South Winthrop St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Craig A. Viens
Seller: Debra A. Sherrer
Date: 07/29/13

47 Tanglewood St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Anthony Matos
Seller: John Chmura
Date: 07/31/13

169 Waite Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Bethanie L. Sawyer
Seller: Derek P. Swistak
Date: 08/02/13

129 Woodlawn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Laura J. Hurler
Seller: Sandra M. Turban
Date: 07/31/13

108 Woodstock St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $126,000
Buyer: Alexandra Gonzalez
Seller: Jennifer L. Weir
Date: 07/31/13

116 Woodstock St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Monika M. Konopko
Seller: Wojcik, Walter, (Estate)
Date: 07/31/13

7 Zoar Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: James Sheftall
Seller: Richard S. Harty
Date: 08/01/13

EAST LONGMEADOW

137 Allen St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $341,500
Buyer: Patrick R. Tudryn
Seller: Angelo Pananas
Date: 08/09/13

Auburn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $272,000
Buyer: John J. Kelly
Seller: Michael F. Torcia
Date: 08/09/13

101 Bayne St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Leo A. Riendeau
Seller: Cynthia K. Therien
Date: 07/31/13

11 Betterley Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: John S. Chmura
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 07/31/13

10 Crescent Hill
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $126,000
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank NA
Seller: Jason L. Campbell
Date: 07/30/13

125 Dearborn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: John M. Dickson
Seller: Rocco M. Carabetta
Date: 07/30/13

53 Edmund St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Eric A. Krupka
Seller: David J. Pallatino
Date: 08/01/13

27 Fairview St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Thaw Dar
Seller: Anthony Moriarty
Date: 08/09/13

29 Millbrook Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $239,900
Buyer: Timothy L. Collins
Seller: Bailey, Robert J., (Estate)
Date: 08/02/13

198 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $294,900
Buyer: Sharon E. Bonasoni
Seller: Michael A. Torcia
Date: 08/02/13

25 Spring Valley Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Anthony Moriarty
Seller: Paul Courville
Date: 08/09/13

8 Vadnais St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $272,500
Buyer: Lawrence Bradley
Seller: Mary E. Karpells
Date: 08/09/13

18 Wood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $140,300
Buyer: CLLC LLC
Seller: Michael P. Galvagni
Date: 08/02/13

GRANVILLE

359 South Lane
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Joel R. Lewis
Seller: Randall S. White
Date: 08/01/13

HAMPDEN

Bennett Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Vincent P. Murphy
Seller: David F. Wentworth
Date: 08/02/13

4 Mount Vision Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $192,900
Buyer: Steven A. Aulisio
Seller: Kathleen Foster
Date: 08/02/13

63 Old Orchard Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: James E. Gagnon
Seller: Ruth A. Hatch
Date: 07/31/13

26 Walnut Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Jason Lopes
Seller: John E. Mullaney
Date: 07/31/13

HOLLAND

10 Old County Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Michael R. Vieira
Seller: Paixao Properties Inc.
Date: 08/09/13

53 Sandy Beach Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $176,500
Buyer: Christopher Polkowski
Seller: J. B. Noble
Date: 08/08/13

HOLYOKE

3 Brenan St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Christopher Kulig
Seller: USA HUD
Date: 07/29/13

1594 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: William M. Radner
Seller: William M. Radner
Date: 07/29/13

3 Hendel Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $207,500
Buyer: Robert A. Recoulle
Seller: Jeffrey L. Stoloff
Date: 07/31/13

108 Meadowbrook Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $168,550
Buyer: David Vogel
Seller: Paul, William F., (Estate)
Date: 07/31/13

Michelle Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,900
Buyer: Diana C. Abbott
Seller: J. N. Duquette & Son Construction
Date: 07/31/13

211 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Richard Rubin
Seller: Hang Z. Huang
Date: 07/31/13

4 River Terrace
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Samuel W. Craig
Seller: Kenneth J. Watson
Date: 07/29/13

138 Saint Jerome Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Eric Reynolds
Seller: Patricia A. Griffin
Date: 08/08/13

LONGMEADOW

100 Arlington Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Judith A. Delong
Seller: George E. Markoulakis
Date: 07/30/13

Blokland Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Brenda L. Kashmanian
Seller: Paul J. Girard
Date: 07/29/13

263 Burbank Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $250,500
Buyer: Aruna Priya
Seller: George J. Krol
Date: 08/01/13

9 Churchill Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $544,500
Buyer: Harlan M. Wahrman
Seller: Robert T. Brooks
Date: 07/30/13

96 Colton Place
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $365,900
Buyer: Nicholas Pesce
Seller: David Dambrov
Date: 07/31/13

58 Fairfield Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $306,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Buendo
Seller: St.Michaels Construction Corp.
Date: 07/30/13

69 Fairfield Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Joanna Smiley
Seller: Ralph K. Chamberlain
Date: 07/31/13

13 Glenwood Circle
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $212,500
Buyer: Kimberly Guarnaccia
Seller: Christopher Karwoski
Date: 07/29/13

259 Inverness Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Thomas L. Spiwak
Seller: Bettirose Eisner
Date: 08/09/13

5 Laurel St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $945,000
Buyer: Denis G. Gagnon
Seller: Laplante Construction Inc.
Date: 08/07/13

154 Lawrence Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $477,750
Buyer: Marieanne Dambrov
Seller: Mayer A. Kahan
Date: 07/31/13

1497 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $267,250
Buyer: Jeremy R. Stambovsky
Seller: Todd E. Frederickson
Date: 07/31/13

335 Maple Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Michael J. Mowbray
Seller: Jeffrey A. Lomma
Date: 08/01/13

117 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $277,500
Buyer: Christopher M. Carr
Seller: Elaine M. Geha
Date: 07/31/13

97 Roseland Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $291,821
Buyer: Mica LLC
Seller: Radomir Lazic
Date: 08/09/13

62 Woodsley Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $705,000
Buyer: Todd Adelson
Seller: Jennifer L. Cambi
Date: 08/01/13

LUDLOW

834 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $128,500
Buyer: Christopher J. Sherman
Seller: Gail T. Green
Date: 07/29/13

334 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $251,500
Buyer: Derek J. Chandonnet
Seller: Angelo Parlengas
Date: 07/29/13

99 East Akard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,000
Buyer: Michelle A. Carner
Seller: Michelle J. Crochiere
Date: 07/31/13

43 Hampshire St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: M. L. Bradway-Marshall
Seller: Jose A. Andre
Date: 08/05/13

96 Holy Cross Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $218,500
Buyer: Laura S. Markiewicz
Seller: Riverbend 2 Props. LLC
Date: 07/30/13

425 Holyoke St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $312,500
Buyer: Nicholas J. Emmett
Seller: Philip J. Dunaj
Date: 08/07/13

17 Irla Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Brian A. Rogowski
Seller: Robert E. Wojtczak
Date: 08/09/13

494 Lyon St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: Alexandre A. Carvalho
Seller: Richard S. Zych
Date: 08/07/13

50 McLean Pkwy.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Crystal M. Mateus
Seller: Patrick R. Tudryn
Date: 08/09/13

27 Munsing Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Jacqueline C. Rosa
Seller: Mark P. Russell
Date: 07/31/13

46 Pinewood Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $140,500
Buyer: Kevin J. Leclaire
Seller: Kevin J. Leclaire
Date: 08/05/13

23 Power Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Danielle M. Lombardi
Seller: Norman D. Dudley
Date: 08/09/13

35 Rogers Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Kazimierz Borawski
Seller: Rosemary Rudloff
Date: 07/31/13

18 West Akard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: Jamie L. Thomas
Seller: Gerald Boduch
Date: 07/31/13

18 Warwick Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: CSB Svc. Corp.
Seller: Lesley A. Kowalczyk
Date: 07/29/13

683 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Mario Ferrentino
Seller: Kelly A. Tracy
Date: 07/31/13

136 Yale St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Yale Street LLC
Seller: Giza Mondry, Helen, (Estate)
Date: 08/05/13

MONSON

28 Bethany Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Longo
Seller: Teresa Kelley-Coffey
Date: 08/09/13

87 Lakeside Dr.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Alan Ehrlich
Seller: Christine E. Evans
Date: 07/31/13

9 Lincoln St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Wesley R. Crouch
Seller: Henry L. Padden
Date: 07/29/13

245 Palmer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Sequoia Props. Realty LLC
Seller: Aldrich, William H., (Estate)
Date: 08/08/13

4 Zuell Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $230,500
Buyer: David J. Kane
Seller: Michael R. McCurry
Date: 08/06/13

PALMER

16 Cedar Hill St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Joseph Amegah
Seller: Ye X. Yan
Date: 08/05/13

1033 Chestnut St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $171,500
Buyer: Acacio Sanches
Seller: Kathy A. Foster
Date: 08/01/13

28 Deborah St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $171,000
Buyer: Jessica M. Unsderfer
Seller: Derek J. Chandonnet
Date: 08/02/13

25 Geraldine St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Frederick J. Kotowski
Seller: Adam V. Hageman
Date: 07/30/13

2010 High St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $127,300
Buyer: Daniel Delisle
Seller: Steven A. Runnals
Date: 08/01/13

1505 North Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Linda S. Pardo
Seller: Cabot Realty LLC
Date: 08/02/13

1520 Park St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Ruport Realty LLC
Seller: Paul J. Les

2021 Prospect St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $121,000
Buyer: Jeremy R. Tuomisto
Seller: Roger W. Barnes
Date: 07/30/13

101 River St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $133,100
Buyer: Glen W. Shorette
Seller: Robert W. Shorette
Date: 08/06/13

118 State St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Carrie Morris
Seller: Eric G. Hiersche
Date: 08/07/13

RUSSELL

175 General Knox Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Katherine A. Stokowski
Seller: Freniere, Richard M., (Estate)
Date: 08/07/13

135 Timberidge Dr.
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $137,900
Buyer: Shannon L. Trusty
Seller: FNMA
Date: 07/30/13

SPRINGFIELD

27 Ashland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $127,200
Buyer: Maureen E. Anton
Seller: Kimberly A. Nadolski
Date: 07/30/13

49 Bartels St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $150,277
Buyer: Hassan Mourad
Seller: Mohammad Niroomand
Date: 08/01/13

53 Bissell St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Desiree S. Davis
Seller: FNMA
Date: 08/02/13

43 Caitlin Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Antonio Teixeria
Seller: Jason A. Lopes
Date: 07/31/13

25 Canton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $117,500
Buyer: Jose Cruzado
Seller: Lori A. Ruell
Date: 08/08/13

110 Carr St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $175,800
Buyer: Giuseppe Leone
Seller: Jeffrey W. Duda
Date: 07/29/13

50 Chauncey Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Carl J. Shaw
Seller: Stanley J. Rodak
Date: 07/31/13

82 Cherry St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Roberto Rodriguez
Seller: Homer Foucher
Date: 08/09/13

274 Christopher Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $180,000
Seller: David B. Failey
Date: 07/30/13

120 Clarendon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jack C. Dubose
Seller: Wesley Methodist Church
Date: 08/09/13

27 Deepfield Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $172,937
Buyer: Marilynn Jones
Seller: Philip D. Wood
Date: 07/29/13

5 Fair Oak Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Laura A. Phelan
Seller: Sara A. Brassil
Date: 07/31/13

174 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Berkshire Land Co. LLC
Seller: HSBC Bank USA
Date: 07/29/13

49 Garcia St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Cassandra Washington
Seller: Maroun Ghossein
Date: 07/31/13

98 Gilman St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Andrew D. Galaska
Seller: Joseph M. Daley
Date: 07/31/13

26 Granger St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $151,000
Buyer: Sergio Flores
Seller: Mikhail S. Kutsel
Date: 08/07/13

239 Hanson Dr.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Thomas L. Gregoire
Seller: Steven A. Aulisio
Date: 07/30/13

36 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $131,500
Buyer: Timothy A. Bradley
Seller: Timothy L. Collins
Date: 08/02/13

77 Laurence St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Nelson J. Milano
Seller: Elaine C. Graham
Date: 07/30/13

595 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $326,000
Buyer: Glory Inc.
Seller: 587 Main Realty Corp.
Date: 08/08/13

3400 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01199
Amount: $6,500,000
Buyer: Baystate Medical Center
Seller: Stutz Realty LLC
Date: 07/30/13

134 Mallowhill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Shi L. Wu
Seller: Flavin, Chester E., (Estate)
Date: 07/30/13

Park Dr.
Springfield, MA 01101
Buyer: Denis G. Gagnon
Seller: Laplante Construction Inc.
Date: 08/07/13

53 Pennsylvania Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Michael R. Grimaldi
Seller: Jason N. Shrock
Date: 07/31/13

9 Ridgeway Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Kathleen G. Walsh
Seller: Andrew F. Wissemann
Date: 08/02/13

201 Rosemary Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Jose A. Lebron-Vega
Seller: Daniel Garrity
Date: 08/02/13

105 Saint James Circle
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Ruth N. Rodriguez
Seller: CDM Props. LLC
Date: 08/01/13

251 Senator St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $125,039
Buyer: Olga Jagiello
Seller: USA HUD
Date: 08/09/13

44 Texel Dr.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $138,900
Buyer: Robert D. Rizzuto
Seller: Connie R. Chaitovsky
Date: 08/02/13

509 Tiffany St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $118,000
Buyer: Eliezer Reyes
Seller: Kathryn L. Calabrese
Date: 08/06/13

705 Union St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Joshua Reid
Seller: Hallerin Realty LLP
Date: 08/08/13

297 West Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Phuc N. Nguyen
Seller: Marlin Investments LLC
Date: 07/31/13

32 Warriner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $131,250
Buyer: Monty LLC
Seller: Corey J. Fisher
Date: 08/01/13

1468 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $149,000
Buyer: Greychi Alvarado
Seller: Rebecca Before
Date: 08/02/13

193 Winterset Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: James J. Lucek
Seller: Daniel J. Manning
Date: 07/31/13

SOUTHWICK

20 Iroquois Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Richard S. Zito
Seller: Barbara W. Sokolowski
Date: 08/02/13

17 Juniper Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $191,000
Buyer: Eric M. Brogan
Seller: Daniel A. Erwin
Date: 07/31/13

29 North Lake Ave.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $124,900
Buyer: Michaelene J. Gurka
Seller: Debra A. Croteau
Date: 08/09/13

WALES

7 Church St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Andrew P. Duquette
Seller: Donald R. Bancroft
Date: 07/30/13

WESTFIELD

48 Bailey Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Johnathan J. Timek
Seller: Scarfo Construction Inc.
Date: 07/30/13

1087 East Mountain Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $115,500
Buyer: Anil K. Mallavarapu
Seller: Bank Of America FSB
Date: 07/31/13

455 Falley Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Scott
Seller: Kelly A. Prenosil
Date: 08/08/13

32 Heritage Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Christopher N. Riga
Seller: Daniel R. Gintowt
Date: 07/29/13

37 Joseph Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Corrine K. Holland
Seller: Holland, Andree J., (Estate)
Date: 07/31/13

8 Leaview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Dawn R. Schlien
Seller: Joan H. Ugolik
Date: 07/31/13

17 Linden Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $169,847
Buyer: Michael C. McGrievey
Seller: Julieann A. Schortmann
Date: 08/07/13

156 Meadow St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: John R. Gordner
Seller: Teresa M. Orlandi
Date: 07/31/13

139 Springdale Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Jason M. Perron
Seller: Barbara J. Bell
Date: 07/31/13

315 Steiger Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Christopher O’Brien
Seller: Jason P. Queenin
Date: 07/31/13

36 Stephanie Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Timothy E. Slowick
Seller: Christopher M. Watroba
Date: 08/01/13

Violet Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Kopatz Construction Inc.
Seller: Scarfo Construction Inc.
Date: 08/01/13

WILBRAHAM

5 Autumn Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Jessie E. Donovan
Seller: Gregory G. Loboda
Date: 08/01/13

8 Briar Cliff Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Kristin M. Gates
Seller: Sturbridge Dev. LLC
Date: 08/09/13

150 Chilson Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Scott M. Mchugh
Seller: Mark E. Przechocki
Date: 08/05/13

5 Elm Circle
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Valerie Labine-Perry
Seller: Jeanne M. Moriarty
Date: 08/08/13

17 Falcon Hts.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: Jay C. Falik
Seller: Diana J. Walker
Date: 07/30/13

5 Fox Hill Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Mark E. Przechocki
Seller: Raymond J. Wright
Date: 08/05/13

9 Harness Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Rory M. Sullivan
Seller: Kristin M. Gates
Date: 08/09/13

15 Meadowview Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $249,500
Buyer: Gregory J. Rogers
Seller: Rory M. Sullivan
Date: 07/30/13

2 Pidgeon Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $237,900
Buyer: Shelby L. Cook
Seller: Kenneth J. Marowski
Date: 08/08/13

3 Powers Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Philip J. Dunaj
Seller: Mary K. Counos
Date: 08/07/13

34 Pomeroy St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $222,500
Buyer: Daniel J. Manning
Seller: Lillian F. Malandrinos
Date: 07/31/13

17 Ripley St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $187,500
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Nelson
Seller: Mary Boyajy
Date: 07/30/13

28 Soule Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Kerrin M. Bigda
Seller: Alexander A. Berezkin
Date: 07/30/13

443 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Michael R. Parker
Seller: Robert L. Gaudette
Date: 07/31/13

899 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Brian Cunningham
Seller: Elizabeth K. Lee
Date: 08/02/13

WEST SPRINGFIELD

77 Armstrong St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Thomas W. Clutz
Seller: Francisco Rodriguez
Date: 07/30/13

116 Chestnut St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Craig A. Dore
Seller: Charles L. Dore
Date: 07/31/13

25 E. School St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Chitra K. Rai
Seller: Karl F. Schwarzkopf
Date: 08/01/13

49 E. School St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Yekub Shakhanov
Seller: Morray Inc.
Date: 07/31/13

104 Edgewood Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: Miriam B. Steinberg
Seller: Kelley A. Breck
Date: 07/31/13

18 Hillside Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: Justin S. Bergeron
Seller: Jonathan Bernard
Date: 07/30/13

25 Irving St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $167,500
Buyer: Battista Property Mgmt. LLC
Seller: Richard N. Majkowski
Date: 07/31/13

112 Lewis Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Oleksandr Demyanchuk
Seller: Timothy A. Neal
Date: 08/08/13

190 Lower Beverly Hills
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $182,250
Buyer: Keith B. Lee
Seller: Jennifer L. Bharvirkar
Date: 07/29/13

29 Robinson Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Nico Paolucci
Seller: Timothy E. Slowick
Date: 07/29/13

19 Spring St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $118,000
Buyer: Marina Efremova
Seller: NSP Residential LLC
Date: 07/30/13

31 Sunnyside St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Vyatcheslav Tsukanov
Seller: Alfred A. Bernard
Date: 07/31/13

104 Vincent Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Matthew L. Krokov
Seller: Flagstone Props. Inc.
Date: 07/31/13

33 Windsor St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Vasiliy Panchenko
Seller: Earl F. Camp
Date: 07/29/13

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

56 Berkshire Terrace
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Spitzer
Seller: Annaliese Bischoff
Date: 08/05/13

55 Chapel Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Haivan V. Hoang
Seller: Canale, Parola Ercole, (Estate)
Date: 07/29/13

40 Dickinson St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Todd Volk
Seller: Gloria B. Morton TR
Date: 08/09/13

15 Hawthorn Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $745,000
Buyer: William M. Doerr
Seller: Bercume Construction LLC
Date: 08/02/13

43 Hitchcock Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $464,000
Buyer: Amherst College
Seller: William C. Taubman
Date: 08/01/13

Lindenridge Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Bercume Construction LLC
Seller: Western Development Corp.
Date: 08/06/13

N/A
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Jon W. Holcombe
Seller: Anne M. Taylor
Date: 08/05/13

374 Old Montague Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $612,000
Buyer: Vlad Zakashansky
Seller: Carol S. Gross
Date: 08/02/13

24 Potwine Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Michael MacDonald
Seller: David E. Seymour
Date: 08/01/13

80 Rolling Ridge Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Michelle E. Farkas
Seller: Susan A. Howard
Date: 08/01/13

682 Station Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Abida Adnan
Seller: Mass. Properties Mgmt. LLC
Date: 07/31/13

45 Woodlot Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Qian Ya
Seller: Richard Rubin
Date: 07/30/13

BELCHERTOWN

81 Allen Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Kyle J. Thibeault
Seller: Chester A. Banach
Date: 08/02/13

29 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $238,000
Buyer: William M. Watson
Seller: Mitchell W. Vincent
Date: 07/31/13

5 Tucker Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Marianne Waszkelewicz
Seller: Mary A. O’Neil
Date: 08/09/13

CHESTERFIELD

125 Bryant St.
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Michael Alterman
Seller: Linda E. Jones
Date: 08/06/13

EASTHAMPTON

6 Adams St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Natali Hernandez-Gardiol
Seller: Mukunda Feldman
Date: 07/30/13

22 Carillon Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: Kevin R. Doherty
Seller: Michael E. Czerapowicz LT
Date: 07/31/13

16 Chapman Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Michael L. Mactavish
Seller: John R. Gasperini
Date: 08/01/13

10 Holyoke St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $239,900
Buyer: Susan M. Tallon
Seller: David G. Poppie
Date: 08/09/13

19 Knipfer Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: James L. Patterson
Seller: Laurie A. Kline
Date: 08/09/13

20 Knipfer Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $229,900
Buyer: John B. Allison
Seller: Kevin C. Netto
Date: 07/31/13

305 Loudville Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $187,390
Buyer: Justin T. Skoronski
Seller: FNMA
Date: 08/09/13

75 Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Auouk Alquier
Seller: Bruce C. Nolan
Date: 08/09/13

157 Park St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Hartman
Seller: Rosa M. Gomes
Date: 07/29/13

19 River Valley Way
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Jeffrey S. Cahill
Seller: EH Homeownership LLC
Date: 08/07/13

86 Williston Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Shawn T. Asher
Date: 08/01/13

3 Windsor Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Robert E. Sass
Seller: Mark M. Hammond
Date: 08/07/13

GRANBY

300 Batchelor St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Matthew Hamel
Seller: Jeannette A. Boczon
Date: 08/09/13

50 Morgan St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $242,000
Buyer: Robert H. Mongeon
Seller: David E. Bolio
Date: 07/31/13

6 Oak Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Tomothy S. Sorrentino
Seller: Claude D. Lambert
Date: 07/30/13

204 School St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: James N. Brousard
Seller: Jeanne Yocum
Date: 07/30/13

HADLEY

14 Aloha Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Richard M. Klein
Seller: Higgins, Barry R., (Estate)
Date: 08/01/13

59 River Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $684,935
Buyer: John H. Kokoski
Seller: Peter J. Klimoski
Date: 07/31/13

72 River Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Marjorie Rule
Seller: Williams H. Wallis
Date: 08/02/13

26 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Jerry Rybczynski
Seller: Edward W. Forman
Date: 07/29/13

8 Stockbridge Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $276,000
Buyer: Jeffry J. Gummeson
Seller: James J. Dinopoulos
Date: 08/09/13

22 Sylvia Hts.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Yadin Mor
Seller: James T&B Henderson LT
Date: 07/29/13

HATFIELD

64 Bridge St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $248,000
Buyer: Mary K. Shoro
Date: 07/31/13

115 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Jefferey P. Laflamme
Seller: Hatfield Village LLC
Date: 08/02/13

17 King St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Stephen Luippold
Seller: Jacob N. Masenior
Date: 08/05/13

104 Mountain Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $412,000
Buyer: Christyn J. Fagan
Seller: Paul D. Palmisciano
Date: 08/06/13

NORTHAMPTON

24 Adare Plce
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Julie N. Tomlinson-Nolan
Seller: Steven R. Roszko
Date: 08/09/13

18 Cherry St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $284,500
Buyer: D. McKay Separate Share TR
Seller: Judy A. Madzunovic
Date: 07/29/13

22 Claire Ave.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Sarah D. Haessler
Seller: Amherst Green Dev. LLC
Date: 08/05/13

95 Emerson Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $511,000
Buyer: Jennifer M. Recht
Seller: Rosemund LLC
Date: 08/09/13

22 Fort Hill Terrace
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $363,500
Buyer: Jeremy F. Hartman
Seller: O’Neill, Mary E., (Estate)
Date: 08/01/13

72 Fox Farms Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $362,500
Buyer: Craig N. Ruberti
Seller: Helen R. Covekk RET
Date: 08/01/13

235 Glendale Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: James A. Coyle
Seller: Terrie M. Jarosz
Date: 08/01/13

16 Hancock St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Peter A. Thunfors
Seller: Lorena Donaldson-Zurita
Date: 08/05/13

39 Ladyslipper Lane
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $459,000
Buyer: Adam P. Kittredge
Seller: Carol R. Schroeder
Date: 07/31/13

97 Laurel Park
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Terence Ragasa
Seller: Jena M. Sujat
Date: 08/08/13

29 Longview Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $190,500
Buyer: Christopher C. Slack
Seller: Lois E. Newton
Date: 08/09/13

22 Maple St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $333,000
Buyer: Katherine Eileen
Seller: Eric A. Cohen
Date: 07/30/13

178 North Elm St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $241,350
Buyer: Catherine McCune
Seller: Kevin L. Alix
Date: 07/30/13

280 Old Wilson Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $551,000
Buyer: Olena Parkhomenko
Seller: Kerry Brozyna
Date: 08/01/13

7 Pine St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Alexander M. Kalish
Seller: Craig N. Ruberti
Date: 08/01/13

17 Prospect Hts.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $284,000
Buyer: Marvin T. Elline
Seller: Susan J. Meunier
Date: 08/09/13

111 Prospect St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Deevia C. Patel
Seller: Fay A. Klein
Date: 07/31/13

327 Riverside Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $305,500
Buyer: Lindsay S. Pope
Seller: Byongok Chon
Date: 08/07/13

306 Rocky Hill Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Lynne M. Davis
Seller: George W. Adams
Date: 08/02/13

459 Rocky Hill Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Skelley
Seller: Robert K. Eckert
Date: 08/09/13

137 Spruce Hill Ave.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $227,900
Buyer: Magdalene Aulik
Seller: Robert Eveleigh
Date: 07/31/13

140 Williams St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $142,800
Buyer: Dana L. Goldblat
Seller: Samuel Conklin
Date: 07/29/13

PLAINFIELD

278 Prospect St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Bruce G. Hooke
Seller: Jonathan R. Lawrence
Date: 08/07/13

SOUTH HADLEY

14 Broad St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Matthew Yee
Seller: Robert A. Recoulle
Date: 07/31/13

112 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $222,000
Buyer: Sharon M. Styffe
Seller: Nichilas S. Collins
Date: 08/01/13

32 Leahey Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $278,500
Buyer: Michelle L. Fitzell
Seller: Thomas W. Carey
Date: 07/29/13

3 Leblanc Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $387,500
Buyer: Kelley A. Fike
Seller: Anthony G. Catterton
Date: 08/01/13

101 Pine St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Arthur E. Procter
Seller: Christopher J. Potito
Date: 07/31/13

11 Ranger St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Christopher S. Sormanti
Seller: Michael P. Lynch
Date: 08/02/13

9 Spring Meadows
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Scott A. Lynch
Seller: Sandra Schuhlen
Date: 07/31/13

26 Upper River Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Daniel F. Muldoon
Seller: James W. Knapp
Date: 07/31/13

7 Warner St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Steven K. Eckman
Seller: Daniel E. Cyr
Date: 08/09/13

4 Wright Place
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $212,000
Buyer: Joseph D. Mancinelli
Seller: Susan L. Anderson
Date: 08/09/13

SOUTHAMPTON

72 Glendale Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Patricia A. Hoynoski
Seller: Richard L. Truehart
Date: 08/01/13

14 Mountain View Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Farrell
Seller: Richard Blackbird
Date: 08/07/13

WARE

19 Eagle St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Joseph P. Sutkaitis
Seller: Joseph Wilga
Date: 07/31/13

46 Eddy St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Jonathan Underwood
Seller: Pioneer Valley Redevelopment LLC
Date: 08/08/13

15 Hillside Terrace
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $276,500
Buyer: Dale A. Walker
Seller: Sean S. Murray
Date: 07/31/13

West Warren Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: West Warren Road LLC
Date: 07/30/13

WESTHAMPTON

91 North Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: David G. Poppie
Seller: Mark A. Miller
Date: 08/09/13

14 Pine Island Lake
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $212,000
Buyer: Nicholas S. Divenere
Seller: Donald R. Affhauser RET
Date: 08/07/13

54 Pine Island Lake
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Diana C. Killip
Seller: Robert D. Marmor
Date: 07/31/13

WORTHINGTON

47 Conwell Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Madeleine A. Cahill
Seller: Klouda FT
Date: 07/31/13

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By
Chamber Corners Departments

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• Sept. 11: After 5 – MillFest, 5-7 p.m., at Ludlow Mills. We’re bringing the After 5 networking events back bigger and better tha• ever with a MillFest. We’ll have live music, great food, lots of fun, and, of course, networking. Sponsored by Chicopee Savings Bank with support from HealthSouth and Westmass Area Development Corp. Presented i• collaboratio• with the East of the River Five Tow• Chamber of Commerce, a• affiliate of the ACCGS. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Proceeds will benefit the ERC5 Scholarship Fund. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Sept. 18: Wester• Mass. Business Forum, 8:30 a.m.-noon, at Holyoke Community College. Businesses operating today are ofte• overwhelmed by state and federal environmental, health, and safety requirements. It’s especially tough for small and mid-size businesses to keep up to date. Joi• the EPA, DEP, and other state agencies and the state’s leading business organizations for a half-day briefing where you’ll be give• the tools to ru• your business safely and i• compliance with the law — and maybe save some money i• the end. Presented i• collaboratio• with Associated Industries of Mass., the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, Partners for a Healthier Community, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Reservations are $25 for the first employee per company, $15 per employee thereafter. Reservations must be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• Sept. 24: Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Mai• St., Springfield. For those political and policy junkies. Joi• us for our debut event featuring a policy expert and member of the Patrick administratio• for a breakfast and roundtable discussion. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 1: Rake i• the Business Tabletop and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, Chicopee. This unique tabletop showcase provides businesses and organizations with a• affordable opportunity to exhibit their products and services. Presented i• collaboratio• with the Greater Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce. Exhibitor space is $100 and includes a• 8-foot table, two exhibitor passes, and six complimentary passes for admission. Reservations to attend are $5. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 2: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Log Cabi• i• Holyoke. Speed Networking — joi• us for our take o• speed dating, a fast-paced way for you to work the room, making 50 new contacts at one breakfast. Get your elevator speech ready for this unique event. Sponsored by Series Sponsor Masiello Employment Services. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 9: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at One Financial Plaza Community Room, 1350 Mai• St., Springfield. The program, “Birds Tweet, but Should You? Is Social Media Right for your Business?” will discuss strategies behind using social media, determining your retur• o• investment and tips o• how to best deploy social media to your advantage. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission, and includes networking time and a boxed lunch. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 24: A Chocolate Affair, 6-9 p.m., at Chez Josef i• Agawam. Indulge yourself i• chocolate, shopping, and networking. Presented by the Professional Women’s Chamber, a• affiliate of the ACCGS. Exhibitor space is $70. Reservations to attend are $40. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 25: Super 60, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Chez Josef i• Agawam. Celebrate the region’s top-performing companies. Now, i• its 24th year, this awards program celebrates the success of the fastest-growing privately owned businesses i• the regio• that continue to make significant contributions to the strength of the regional economy. Presented by Health New England with support from Hampde• Bank, Sulliva• Hayes & Quinn, the Republican, and WWLP-TV 22. Reservations are $50 for members, $70 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700
• Sept. 13: Amherst Area Chamber Luncheon, 12:30-2 p.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. Sponsored by UMass Five College Credit Union. Celebrate the growth and impact of local agriculture and the 20th anniversary of Community Involved i• Sustaining Agriculture (CISA). Guest speaker Phillip Korman, executive director of CISA, will discuss the economic impacts and growth of the “Local Hero” movement i• the Pioneer Valley. Tickets cost $25 per person. RSVP to [email protected].
• Sept. 25: Chamber After 5 at Florence Savings Bank, Block Party, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by and sponsored by Florence Savings Bank, 385 College St., Amherst. Explore the whole group of businesses at Amherst Crossing: Amherst Pharmacy, Coldwell Banker-Upto• Massamont Realtors, and Pioneer Valley Ideal Weight Loss. Enjoy tasty treats from Portabella Catering. Admission: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].
• Oct. 3: Amherst Area Chamber Annual Awards Dinner, 5:30-9 p.m., at the UMass Student Unio• Ballroom. Presented by PeoplesBank. Sponsored by J.F.Conlo• & Associates. Legacy Award: Joh• Coull; Lifetime Achievement i• Business: Ronald Nathan, Amherst Insurance Agency/the Natha• Agencies; Community Service: Family Outreach of Amherst; Chamber MVP: Cinda Jones, W.D. Cowls Land Co. Admission: $75 per ticket.
• Oct. 18: Legislative Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn. Sponsored by Wester• Massachusetts Electric Co. Admission: $15 for members, $20 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• Sept. 12: Networking By Night Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and co-sponsored by Eastworks Event Space, Suite 160, 116 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Co-sponsored by Riff’s Joint, which is providing hors d’ouevres. Beer and wine compliments of Eastworks. Door prizes. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for future members.
• Sept. 13-14: Fall Recycling Days (Sept. 13: 1-4 p.m.; Sept. 14: 8:30 a.m. to noon). Responsibly dispose of your old computer, monitor, TV, stereo, and/or home or office appliances. Location: Corner of Liberty and Mechanic streets (across from the Liberty Commons Building), Easthampton. Recycling services courtesy of Duseau Trucking, Hatfield. Ope• to the public. Contact the chamber office at (413) 527-9414 for recycling fees; 100% of fees will benefit chamber community programs.
• Sept. 17: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampto• Chamber of Commerce, 33 Unio• St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, a• ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice o• the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fra• Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
• Oct. 1: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampto• Chamber of Commerce, 33 Unio• St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, a• ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice o• the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fra• Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
• Oct. 8: Mayoral Forum, 6 p.m., Eastworks Meeting Space, Suite 160, 116 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Lear• about the Easthampto• mayoral candidates’ views o• business and their plans for the future of Easthampton. Free and ope• to the public.
• Oct. 10: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by Cernak Buick, 102 Northampto• St., Easthampton. Hors d’ouevres, beer, and wine available. Door prizes. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for future members.
• Oct. 15: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampto• Chamber of Commerce, 33 Unio• St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, a• ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice o• the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fra• Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
• Oct. 21: Celebrity Bartenders Night, 6-9 p.m., at Opa-Opa Steakhouse & Brewery, 169 College Highway, Southampton. Joi• us for a night of fu• with local celebrities mixing drinks. Tips benefit the chamber’s holiday lighting fund. Raffles and more fun. Admission: free.

HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
• Sept. 10: “Grow Your Business with E-mail and Social Media Marketing,” from 8:30 (registration) to 10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. This workshop is designed to give small businesses and nonprofit organizations some simple ideas for growing their customer, prospect, or member networks by using e-mail and social-media marketing. Admissio• is free. Brought to you by Constant Contact. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.
• Sept. 11: Legislative Coffee Hour, 7:45-9:15 a.m. Hosted by Slainte, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Sponsored by Dowd Insurance, Loomis Communities, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite and Driscoll. Hear what the Holyoke mayoral candidates have to say about some of the key topics that will affect the city of Holyoke. Each candidate will have a• opportunity to speak and will take questions from the audience. Cost: $18 for chamber members, $25 for non-members. Continental breakfast included. The public is invited to attend. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sig• up.
• Sept. 17: Holyoke Day at the Big E, 5 p.m.
• Sept. 18: Chamber Annual Clambake, 5-7:30 p.m., at Holyoke Country Club, 1 Country Club Road. Sponsored by United Water, Pioneer Valley Railroad, and Westfield Bank. All tickets are $35. The public is invited to attend. Free golf lesso• at 3:30 p.m., putting contest, music, chowder cook-off, games, door prizes, and raffles. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.
• Sept. 24: “The Power of E-mail Marketing,” bonus session: “Getting Started with Constant Contact E-mail Marketing,” from 8:30 (registration) to 10 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. Attendance is free. For reservations, call the chamber office at 413-534-3376.
• Oct. 1: Table Top Showcase, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Chicopee Castle of Knights. Four area chambers — Greater Holyoke, Chicopee, Westfield, and the ACCGS — are getting together to present a tabletop mini-trade show. Tables cost $100. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 to secure your table.
• Oct. 3: “Ask a Chamber Expert: the Basics of Blueprint Reading,” 8:30-10 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Lear• how to define different types of scales used o• drawings; identify the height, width, and length dimensions of a drawing; interpret the various symbols and notations used o• a drawing; distinguish betwee• plan, elevation, section, and detail views; and become familiar with basic plan-reading terminology. Price includes a continental breakfast. Cost: $10 for members; $25 at the door and for non-members. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sig• up.
• Oct. 9: Autum• Business Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin. Sponsored by the Republica• and Holyoke Medical Center. Recognizing new members, business milestones, and networking breakfast meeting. Cost: members, $22 i• advance, $28 at the door. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sig• up.
• Oct. 16: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at the Center for Health Education, 404 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke (former Gryn• & Barrett Studios). Business networking event to take place at HCC’s newest educatio• facility. Networking, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sig• up.
• Oct. 22: Social Media with Constant Contact Workshop, 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. This information-packed seminar offers a basic review of the essential strategies and best practices a business or organizatio• should understand to successfully get started with social-media marketing. Admissio• is free. Brought to you by Constant Contact. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.
• Oct. 30: Manufacturing Breakfast, 7:30-9:30 a.m., at the Wherehouse, 109 Lyma• St., Holyoke. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.massachusettschamberofcommerce.com
(413) 525-2506
• Nov. 12: Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, 9 a.m. registration, at the DoubleTree, Westborough. For more informatio• o• ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, call the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].

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

• Sept. 11: Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m. Monthly chamber networking event. Sponsored and hosted by Baystate Health Outpatient Center, at Northampto• Crossing, 325 King St. Cost:  $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].
• Sept. 26: Business Planning Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Northampto• Chamber, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by the staff of the Frankli• County Community Development Corp. This 90-minute sessio• informs business owners about business planning, the loa• process, where to get help, and how to launch a food product and use the Wester• MA Food Processing Center. Lear• about available resources and walk out knowing your next step. Admissio• is free, but space is limited. RSVP to [email protected].
• Sept. 25: Incite Information, 7:30-9 a.m., at Look Park: the Garde• House. Hosted by the Greater Northampto• Chamber of Commerce. Sponsors: United Personnel, Webber & Grinnell, and Six-Point Creative Works. The speaker will be state Sen. Senator Sta• Rosenberg. Incite Informatio• is a four-part series o• the future of business i• the Pioneer Valley. The format and topics were developed from a survey of chamber members, i• which it was clear that business leaders are looking for more avenues for relevant and highly local informatio• that will help them make decisions more effectively. The series will include expert speakers who will address big issues with a local mindset. Topics for this year will include economic development, high-speed transportation, higher education, and the impact of work culture. Cost: $20 for members, $30 for non-members. RSVP required. To register, contact Esther at [email protected].
• Oct. 2: Annual Chamber Ope• House, 5-7 p.m. Sponsors: Innovative Business Systems, Pioneer Training, and Crocker Communications. The chamber’s largest fall networking event, the ope• house is designed to introduce prospective members to the chamber and its members. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].
• Oct. 8: Business to Customer Marketing Workshop: “On-the-spot Marketing Tips for Increasing Foot Traffic,” 1-3 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by the Greater Northampto• Chamber of Commerce. Presented by the Creative Marketing Group. The Creative Marketing Group will meet with you and your fellow retail business owners and managers at our conference-room table, liste• to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions o• the spot. Lear• more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business, reach the media, and maximize your message i• person, i• print, and online. Cost: free, but pre-registratio• is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Esther at [email protected]
• Oct. 22: Business to Business Marketing Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Greater Northampto• Chamber of Commerce. Cost: free, but pre-registratio• is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Esther at [email protected].
• Nov. 6: Arrive@5 Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by the World War II Club. Sponsors: Homeward Vets. Catered by Big Kats Catering. The chamber will be collecting donations for Homeward Vets. A list of needed donations will be posted o• its website. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880
• Sept. 26: Coffee with Mayor Cohen, 8-9:30 a.m., at the OMG Training Center, 604 Silver St. Agawam. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 2: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., at Westfield Bank, 655 Mai• St., Agawam. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network i• a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Event is ope• to the public, but non-members must pay at the door. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 10: West Springfield Mayoral Debate, 6-8 p.m., at West Springfield City Hall. Event is ope• to the public and free for both members and non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 17: Business with Bacon, 7-9 a.m., at Crestview Country Club. Speaker: Gaming Commissioner Bruce Stebbins. Cost: $25 for chamber members, $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 23: Business to Business Expo, hosted by the West of the River Chamber, the North Central CT Chamber, the Bradley Regional Chamber, and the East Windsor Chamber, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Hosted by Holiday Inn, Enfield. Cost: $100 for a six-foot table if you are a member of any chamber and pay i• full by Sept. 27, or $150 for a six-foot table if you are not a member of any chamber or do not pay i• full by Sept. 27. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or email [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
• Sept. 11: September WestNet Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Holiday In• Express, 39 Southampto• Road, Westfield. Sponsored by CityStage & Symphony Hall. A• evening of networking. Don’t forget your business cards, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, and cocktails. Walk-ins are welcome. Cost: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• Sept. 13: Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the 104th Fighter Wing ANG, 175 Falco• Dr., Westfield. Platinum sponsor: Westfield Bank. Gold sponsors: Berkshire Bank and United Bank. Guest Speaker: Eva• Dobelle, president, Westfield State University. Cost: $25 for members. $30 for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 7: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the Forum House, 55 Broad St., Westfield. Mayor Knapik will speak about all that is happening around Westfield and field questions. Free and ope• to the pubic. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 9: October WestNet Connection, 5-7 p.m., at East Mountai• Country Club, 1458 East Mountai• Road, Westfield. A• evening of networking; don’t forget your business cards. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Walk-ins are welcome. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

Aubrey, Allen J.
Aubrey, Darcy E.
12 Winthrop St.
Millers Falls, MA 01349
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/13

Bealand, Ruth B.
Bealand, James F.
627 South Road
Oakham, MA 01068
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/07/13

Bower, Elizabeth April
30 Everett St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/13

Brock, Laurie A.
64 Silver St.
Agawam, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/09/13

Campbell, Donna M.
13 Highland Circle
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/13

Chrostowski, Mary
75 Commerical St.
Adams, MA 01220
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/01/13

Courtemanche, Patricia A.
3 Homer Dr.
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/07/13

Davis, Laurie L.
283 College Highway
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

DeRamus, Rosa Alice
a/k/a Motley, Rosa DeRamus
33 Kellogg Ave.
Apartment 50
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/02/13

Diaz, Rolando A.
a/k/a Araujo-Diaz, Rolando A.
335 Walnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/11/13

Dunham, Florence E.
38 Stone Valley Road
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/01/13

Entwistle, Elizabeth
81 Conz St. Apt. #622
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/13

Fairweather, Judith Lynn
60 Fairfield St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/02/13

Fisher, Amy D.
a/k/a Gates, Amy D.
44 Montgomery Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/01/13

Fitzpatrick, Erica H.
1353 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Gladden, Karen M.
740 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/06/13

Gobeille, Raymond J.
48 Fairview St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/13

Griffin, Donna M.
73 Hall Road, Apt. 3
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/01/13

Gyllenhammer, Nancy
332 Wolf Swamp Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/07/13

Hachigian, Nancy J.
28 Intervale Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/02/13

Haley, Steven T.
Haley, Hope M.
a/k/a Fontana, Hope M.
1090 Shaker Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Karowski, Robert E.
1018 High St.
Palmer, MA 010609
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/09/13

Koscielski, John L.
Koscielski, Marlene A.
15 Shadowbrook Estates
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/13

Lively, Jamie A.
a/k/a Lively, James A.
182 Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/13

Lively, Marcella J.
182 Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/13

Lopez, Anthony
Lopez, Caryn Marie
a/k/a Woodard, Caryn Marie
143 Atherton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/15/13

McEwan, Jon S.
McEwan, Kathleen
a/k/a Buell, Kathleen
PO Box 711
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Paradiso, Peter M.
534 Bardwell Road
Belchertown, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/15/13

Perez, Jose A.
36 Eddy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/13

Petersoli, Renette M.
268 Highland Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/05/13

Rijo-Garcia, Matilde
38 Edmund Wynne Circle
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Rivers, David A.
140 Fish St., Apt. #1
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/13

Roman, Jennifer
a/k/a Quinones, Jennifer M.
5 Clayton St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/15/13

Ryan, Ina F.
275 New Boston Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Scott, Robert J.
Scott, Tami L.
a/k/a Moreau, Tami L.
29 Pease Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Simmitt, Lisa A.
19 Robinson Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Stanton, Michael A.
201 Daniel Shays Highway
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/02/13

Staples, Dennis Paul
1330 Dwight St. Apt. 1
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/15/13

Stewart, Kristy P.
105 Heywood Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/09/13

Table, Kimberly A.
28 Main St., Apt. 1C
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/09/13

Van Valkenburgh, James Donald
85 Newell Pond Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/13

White, Cathleen J.
657 West Royalston Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/01/13

Wood, Heather M.
110 Thayer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/13

Zatolokin, Aleksandr
1162 Springfield St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/07/13

Doing Business As Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of September 2013.

AGAWAM

DJJ Investments
51 Senator Ave.
Doug Janick

Mia’s
7 South End Bridge Circle
Shaun Sutherland

Regency Service Company
680 Springfield St.
Richard Walker

Wagsta
53 Tom St.
Ryan Stack

CHICOPEE

Cedar Falls Construction
209 Prospect St.
Richard Rivet

Shop Smart Convenience
659 Grattan St.
Umar Bhatti

The Portrait Mill
21 Lauzier Terrace
Jeffrey Byrnes

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Music Conservatory
12 Greenwood Court
Bryan Daley

Healthy Networks
150 Pleasant St.
Peter Dopp

Lisa’s Hair Design
27 Little Mohawk Road
Lisa Connor

The Greener Home Cleaner
47 Campbell Dr.
Leah Gendron

Top Down Hosting
30 Ward Ave.
Joseph Astuccio

HOLYOKE

Almonte Market II
129 Sargeant St.
Jose T. Almonte

Corner’s Delight Grocery & Deli
95 High St.
Luis A. Alvarado

Grandma’s Attic Thrift Store
1976 Northampton St.
Sharyn A. Kazunas

Intrinsic Design
24 Franks Dr.
Jonathan Falcetti

JDE Corporation
36 Ely St.
Jose T. Almonte

Mica Beauty, LLC
50 Holyoke St.
Thary Phok

Wuglyees
32 Maplecrest Circle
Deborah D. Malloy

NORTHAMPTON

D.L. Hair
4 Old South St.
Diane Lanoue

Mineral Hills Winery
592 Sylvester Road
Lawrence Godard Jr.

Pelorian Digital
1 Front St.
Richard Rasa

Pinch
179 Main St.
Jena Sujat

Queen Bee Cupcakery
150 Main St.
Frederick Villar

Sky Temple
19 Hawley St.
Curtis Hayden

Sticks and Bricks
9 Mark St.
Elizabeth Karney

PALMER

Beaudoin Stonescapes
1036 Park St.
Jesse Beaudoin

Boone Equipment Sales & Retail
1158 Park St.
William Boone

Gold Dust
1256 South Main St.
April Goldrick

LP Transportation
6 Caroline Circle
Henry Lomba

Millennium Group Inc.
2022 Bridge St.
Richard Sweeting

Northern Construction Services
1290 Park St.
Timothy LaMotte

SOUTHWICK

Caissy’s Cleaning Service
134 Feeding Hills Road
Caissy Price

J. Rad Excavating
261 South Loomis Road
Joshua Radwilowicz

NWS Fast Pitch
57 South View Dr.
Marisa Markiewicz

SPRINGFIELD

1st Stop Convenience Store
445 Main St.
Ricardo Falcon

2N1 Grocery & Restaurant
74 Eastern Ave.
Pablo Evangelista

522 Page Boulevard, LLC
522 Page Blvd.
William T. Tetreault

906 Homwin Chinese Restaurant
906 Boston Road
Fan C. Li

Alexus Taxi
34 Florida St.
Adil Ibrahim

Algonquian Construction
14 Hawthorne St.
Johnny Walker

Angels at Heart Daycare
28 Blake Hill St.
Angela S. Chest

Baystate Children’s Hospital
759 Chestnut St.
Mark R. Tolosky

Centro Commercial Lama
2924 Main St.
Pedro Gonzalez

Clean Rex
145 Ambrose St.
Glenn Mills

Clemente’s Sports Bar & Grille
90 Worthington St.
Paul V. Ramesh

Cranio and Massage Center
8 Woodstock St.
Gina Welch

Creating Healthy Academic
69 Edendale St.
Chad Haywood

DAC Handyman Services
39 Granville St.
Devon Smith

Direct to Garment Prints
76 Palo Alto Road
Brandon J. Behnk

Ebony Hill Marketing Firm
111 Florida St.
Nicole A. Hill

El Paisano Restaurant
152 Rifle St.
Ramon Romero

Elite Reporting Service
2 Mattoon St.
Debra A. Vance

Ensena Corporation
1242 Main St.
Hector Fearfield

Exercise in Disguise
140 Maynard St.
Jade L. Rivera

Felix’s Auto Repair
914 Sumner Ave.
Jill A. Crosby

Food Management Search
235 State St.
Joseph Valentine

Fresh Market and Denim
427 State St.
Marcus Navarro

Game World
2475 Main St.
Hoa K. Tran

Geo 195 Pine, LLC
195 Pine St.
Majid N. Din

Hard Body Auto Sales
160 Magazine St.
Kristine Benitez

Higuey Mini Market
298 Hancock St.
Luis J. Pena

Hubble Bubble Hookah
51 Hastings St.
Joshua J. Mastey

K & J Services
45 King St.
Kenneth Wayne

Wilma Pruitt
49 Margerie St.
Wilma Pruitt

World Concrete Contract
1655 Main St.
Daniel Rodriguez

York Street
1 Federal Court
Michael F. Mastriani

WEST SPRINGFIELD

21st Century Apps of New England
51 Van Deene Ave.
Personal Services of New England

Basic Packaging Supply
136 Wayside Ave.
James H. Pollard

Edible Arrangements
1702 Riverdale St.
Louise Beauchemin

Gooseberry Farms
201 Gooseberry Road
Leonard Lapinsky

Hooters
1290 Riverdale St.
West Springfield

Kia M. Brokos
425 Union St.
Kia M. Brokos

Noho Pride Inc.
42 Murray Place
Cindy White

Pioneer Valley Chimney
362 Amostown Road
Thomas J. Cowell

RG Management
425 Union St.
Robert H. Guarente

Rising Sun Mobility
102 New Bridge St.
Peter V. Lapik

Steven’s Jewelers Inc.
2068 Riverdale St.
Joseph E. Stevens

The Loft Salon Studio
2301 Westfield St.
Ann M. Walts

Incorporations

By
Departments Incorporations

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

BRIMFIELD

Jennifer Zollo Educational Fund Inc., 106 Wales Road, Brimfield, MA 01010. Marie Hajko, 28 7th St., Brimfield, MA 01010. Non-profit organization.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Fortune Spa Inc., 611 North Main St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Chengwen Jin, 3620 Bowne St., Apt. 1H, Flushing, NY 11354. Massages services.

HAMPDEN

MJ’S Mobile Detailing Service Inc., 111 Thresher Road, Hampden, MA 01036. Mark Chamberlain, same. Mobile automobile detailing services.

HOLYOKE

Ministerio El Taller Del Maestro Inc., 10 Bristol Place, Apt 1C, Holyoke, MA 01040. Ministry.

Natural Styles Salon & Spa Inc., 369 South St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Jeanne Simard, 117 Caddyshack Dr., Chicopee, MA 01020. Salon and spa.

LEE

Forzy Inc., 56 Main St., Lee MA, 01238. Anita Forzano, 300 Theresa Terrace, Lee, MA 01238. Food services, retail, restaurant, and wholesale.

LENOX

Lenox Cat Hospital Inc., 450 Pittsfield Rd., Lenox, MA 01240. Sally Umlauf, same. Veterinary services.

LONGMEADOW

Godin’s Gardens Inc., 123 Westmoreland Ave., Longmeadow, MA 01106. William Godin, same. Tree and plant nursery.

Green Earth Environmental Corp., 208 Shaker Road, Longmeadow, MA 01106. Paige Scyocurka, same. Asbestos abatement and selective demolition.

PITTSFIELD

Parkside Bar Inc., 220 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Robert Jay Casella, 9 Hawthorne Ave. Pittsfield, MA 01201. Bar.

SPRINGFIELD

Edco Group Inc., 1351 North Belcrest Ave., Springfield, MA 65802. Bill Glassman, 10411 Clayton Road, Suite 211, St. Louis, MO 63131. Scanning of medical records for hospitals.

F & L Fish Market Inc., 115 Wayne St., Springfield, MA 01118. Frankie Cardona, same. Restaurant.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

EE Enterprises Transportation Inc., 203 Circuit Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089. Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Dejesus. 40 Newland St., Springfield, MA 01107. Transportation of miscellaneous goods.

Embrace IP Inc., 2097 Riverdale St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Brett Normandeau, 33 Carol Lane, Holyoke, MA 01040, same. To engage in research and development, purchase, sale, import, export, license, distribution, design, manufacture, or rental of any telecommunications product, machine, apparatus, appliance, and merchandise.

Mass Express Transportation Inc., 25 George St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Nataliya Petlya, same. Passenger transportation via mini-van, limousine, and other passenger vehicles on a for-hire basis.

Mike’s Auto Service & Repair Inc., 173 River St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Michael Zabik, 7 Knollwood Circle, Westfield, MA 01085. Repair of domestic and commercial vehicles, both cars and trucks.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

Yankee Candle Sold for $1.75 Billion
DEERFIELD — Last week, Yankee Candle announced its $1.75 billion sale to Jarden Corp., a consumer products company based in Rye, N.Y., boasting a diverse portfolio of more than 120 brands, including Coleman, Rawlings, Ball, Bicycle, Diamond, Mr. Coffee, First Alert, Oster, and Sunbeam. The move comes six years after Chicago-based Madison Dearborn Partners bought the iconic scented-candle brand for $1.6 billion. Dearborn put the company up for sale earlier this year with an asking price of $2 billion. Michael Kittredge II founded Yankee Candle in his parents’ garage in South Hadley in 1969 and grew it into a multi-million-dollar retailer and tourist destination in Deerfield, employing more than 6,500 workers year-round. Kittredge sold 90% of his shares in the company in 1998 for about $400 million, and the new management took the company public in 1999.

Westfield State Trustees Cheer Dobelle’s Spending
WESTFIELD — Westfield State University President Evan Dobelle received a strong vote of support from the school’s board of trustees following an accountant’s report detailing exorbitant travel and spending habits by university officials.
“When you are a visionary and want to do something great, you’re going to have detractors,” said board member Terrell Hall during the trustees’ recent meeting, which included an hour-long presentation by accountant David Diiulis of the O’Connor & Drew auditing firm, outlining repeated violations of travel and credit-card policies involving Dobelle and other employees that emerged during a five-month review commissioned by the trustees. Among the findings was that Dobelle reimbursed the school $68,000 for personal use of a university credit card between June 2008 and February 2013, in violation of school policy barring the use of WSU credit cards for personal use. In defending the findings, Dobelle acknowledged some bookkeeping errors but insisted that all expenses were for the benefit for the university. “In no small measure due to the travel and fund-raising you and I have undertaken with various other university representatives, faculty, and students in the few years since I began this job, we have accomplished game-changing successes,” he said, citing an overhaul of WSU’s international exchange program, the implementation of new academic programs, and capital improvements on campus. “Meaningful change does not occur without substantial investment of time and financial resources, and cultivation of support. I am deeply proud of what our university has accomplished in these past few years, and am eager to continue this trajectory toward even more significant successes in the years to come.” O’Connor & Drew found that Dobelle and other officials violated the school’s travel and credit-card policies while visiting San Francisco, New Orleans, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York City, Washington D.C., and other cities. Despite lacking receipts and other documentation, university officials also charged expenses from Spain, Vietnam, Thailand, and China to the Westfield State Foundation, the school’s nonprofit fund-raising arm. In particular, the report criticized university officials for using school credit cards for personal expenses, regardless of whether the money was reimbursed; booking trips with little advance notice; changing or canceling flights; and running up excessive costs for meals and hotel rooms.

Palmer, Mohegan Sun Unveil Host-community Agreement for Casino
PALMER — The town of Palmer and Mohegan Sun announced a host-community agreement last month, revealing millions of dollars in mitigation payments and setting the stage for a referendum date so residents can vote on the casino proposal. The agreement features an annual mitigation payment of $15.2 million to the town, plus shares of gaming revenues, as well as an additional, one-time $2.94 million fee for public safety and streetscape improvements in the business and commercial districts. The agreement was signed by Mitchell Etess, CEO of the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority, and Palmer Town Manager Charles Blanchard. “This is way more than just a walk-in casino. It will have all the components of a resort destination that will bring people from miles and miles around,” Etess said. In the first year of the casino’s operation, the mitigation payment to the town would be $18 million based on gaming revenue. Mohegan officials asked for a referendum date of Nov. 5, which the Town Council approved last week. Mohegan Sun has proposed a nearly $1 billion resort casino on 152 acres owned by Northeast Realty across from the Massachusetts Turnpike exit 8. The plan faces competition for the sole Western Mass. casino license from MGM Resorts International in Springfield and Hard Rock New England in West Springfield. The state Gaming Commission is expected to award the license in April. In addition to the mitigation payments, the Mohegan Sun project is expected to generate an estimated $900,000 to $1.4 million in annual hotel-occupancy taxes and an additional $225,000 in annual meals taxes to the town. The agreement calls for more than $40 million in improvements to the town’s infrastructure system. The casino would feature 3,000 slot machines and 80 table games in an approximately 320,000-square-foot facility. Also included in the plan is a 250-room hotel and conference center, a casual-dining restaurant, and a fine-dining restaurant, as well as a 230,000-square-foot retail development featuring more dining options and other entertainment, and a second, 300-room hotel with a water park. More than 3,000 jobs are expected to be created between the casino, water park, and retail complex.

Mass. Medical Society Issues Guide to ACOs Targeted to Physicians
WALTHAM — The Mass. Medical Society has released a new publication for physicians and their practice managers, “MMS Guide to Accountable Care Organizations: What Physicians Need to Know.” The 49-page publication provides detailed guidance on the issues that physicians should consider whether they are currently participating in an accountable-care organization, forming or joining an ACO, or entering into an integration agreement with another healthcare organization. These issues include assessing the readiness of a practice to join an ACO, choosing the right ACO, how to approach an ACO, technology considerations, legal and governance issues, financial impacts, and achieving clinical integration. “It’s becoming more and more difficult for independent practices to compete effectively in today’s healthcare system,” said Dr. Ronald Dunlap, president of the Mass. Medical Society. “Many physicians are reassessing their role in this rapidly evolving system. For some, this means becoming an employee of a larger healthcare organization. Others may want to retain some of their professional autonomy, while integrating some aspects of their practice with an ACO. These are complex issues, and there is a great need for objective, third-party information. It’s our hope that this guide will help them in the decision-making process. The book was written for the MMS and its physicians by Chris Collins, a principal at ECG Management Consultants of Boston, and J. Mark Waxman, a senior partner in the Boston office of the law firm Foley & Lardner. It is available to MMS members at www.massmed.org/acoguide.

Company Notebook

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Company Notebook Departments

Springfield College Awarded Grant for School Partnership
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College was awarded an $867,000 grant from the Mass. Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to fund a strategic partnership with Springfield Public Schools (SPS) to increase the number of teachers who are fully prepared and dedicated to meeting the challenges faced in high-need Level 3 and 4 SPS schools. The S3 (‘S Cubed’) program is designed to increase the pool of effective teachers in the hard-to-staff subject and specialty areas of mathematics and moderate disabilities (special education). The S3 program will serve a cohort of 25 SPS teachers who already hold their preliminary license. Teachers selected for the cohort will complete the Springfield College-approved initial licensure program to become fully certified. Grant funds will cover the cost of tuition for 24 of the graduate credits needed to complete the state licensure program. Springfield College will offer the balance of the coursework required for the master’s degree at a special rate of tuition. This innovative program includes the delivery of coursework that enables the cohort members to immediately put their learning into practice. S3 includes a value-added support system that provides each teacher with extensive, robust, on-site coaching. Springfield College Education Department faculty members will deliver coursework in the schools and provide on-site coaching to cohort members. “I am excited about being involved in this project because it enables Springfield College to strengthen its longstanding partnership with Springfield Public Schools to create a model program that has the potential to produce effective mathematics and special-education teachers who are committed to, and successful at, increasing student learning and academic achievement in the district for years to come,” said Linda Davis-Delano, Springfield College’s director of educator preparation, in describing the program. In addition to fostering more effective student learning in these priority fields, S3 incorporates elements of the district’s Springfield Effective Educator Development System, or SEEDS. This includes meeting the needs of all students, engaging families and communities, and developing professional learning communities, where teachers work together to help students achieve. “Both organizations, Springfield College and Springfield Public Schools, are deeply committed to the development and retention of highly effective, fully licensed teachers in high priority content areas and recognize the potential of the S3 Program’s innovative delivery model to support this undertaking,” said Davis-Delano.

Smith & Wesson Wins Bid to Produce Handguns for LA Police
SPRINGFIELD — The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has selected Smith & Wesson’s M&P 9 pistol as its new department-issued duty handgun, the company announced recently. The contract is for five years. The LA County Sheriff’s Department is the second-largest law-enforcement agency in the country, with 9,000 sworn deputies and 8,000 professional staff members. It provides general-service law enforcement to 43 municipalities encompassing more than 3 million people. The department had been using the Beretta Model 92. According to the Smith & Wesson press release about the contract, the department picked S&W after “rigorous testing against a wide range of competitive products” and that “the M&P pistol delivered superior results in the areas of quality and reliability.” Besides the handguns, Smith & Wesson will provide professional expertise and training to officers and the department’s armorers charged with the maintenance and supply of the department’s firearms.

Zasco Productions to Provide Display Support for Events at Big E
CHICOPEE — KMJ Video, the exclusive video-production provider of the Big E, has chosen Zasco Productions LLC to provide large-format outdoor video displays on their behalf in the Xfinity Arena. The 17-day festival, which boasted more than 1.3 million attendees last year, will serve as the debut event for Zasco’s new high-resolution, highly versatile LED video display. The ‘big screens’ will be used to deliver KMJ’s video to fans at the festival. “This is one of the biggest events in New England, so it’s a natural home for such a big piece of display technology,” said Zasco President and Owner Michael Zaskey. “The Big E has given music fans a series of outstanding shows in the Xfinity Arena every year, but audiences are demanding bigger and better productions, so it’s exciting to be part of something that will really take the visual experience to an even higher level.” The lineup for 2013 boasts veteran acts like former Eagle Don Felder and country legend Kix Brooks. The large, open-air venue inside the festival has seating for more than 6,000. Large, vibrant LED displays will enhance the viewing experience and bring each spectator closer to the stars, said Zaskey. Last month, Zasco Productions announced the acquisition of an LED display system from Oracle LED Systems of Los Angeles. The Black Widow HD9 product is a high-resolution, high-brightness display that can be used to display stunning video or graphics in any environment. The display panels are the same type as those installed permanently at outdoor entertainment destinations in Las Vegas.

People on the Move

By
Departments People on the Move

Jeffrey Fialky, shareholder of the Springfield-based law firm of Bacon Wilson, P.C., was recently named Chairman of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce. Fialky is a member of the firm’s corporate, commercial, banking, and municipal departments, where he specializes in sophisticated business, financing, and commercial real-estate transactions, representing the interests of business owners and lending institutions, as well as municipalities and landowners. Fialky is the former President of the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, and is also currently Chair of the Springfield Museums membership and development committee, and serves as a director on the boards of the United Way of Pioneer Valley, the Scibelli Enterprise Center at STCC, Alden Credit Union, and the Jewish Federation of Western Mass. Fialky earned his BA from the University of New Hampshire and his JD from Western New England University School of Law.
•••••
Bulkley Richardson recently announced that several of the Springfield-based firm’s lawyers were selected by their peers for legal-industry accolades. The following lawyers were named to The Best Lawyers in America 2014:
• Francis Dibble Jr. was named the Best Lawyers 2014 Springfield Litigation – Labor and Employment Lawyer of the Year. Dibble was also recognized in the areas of bet-the-company, commercial, antitrust, and securities litigation;
• David Parke was named the Best Lawyers 2014 Springfield Corporate Law Lawyer of the Year; and
• John Pucci was named the Best Lawyers 2014 Springfield Criminal Defense: Non-white-collar Lawyer of the Year. Pucci was also recognized in the area of criminal defense (white collar);
• In addition, the following Bulkley Richardson lawyers were also selected for the 2014 edition of Best Lawyers in specific practice fields:
• Peter Barry, construction law;
• Michael Burke, medical-malpractice law (defendants) and personal-injury litigation (defendants);
• Mark Cress, bankruptcy and creditor-debtor rights, insolvency and reorganization law, and corporate law;
• Daniel Finnegan, administrative/regulatory law and litigation (construction);
• Robert Gelinas, personal-injury litigation (defendants);
• William Hart, trusts and estate;
• Kevin Maynard, commercial litigation and litigation (banking and finance, construction);
• Melinda Phelps, medical-malpractice law (defendants) and personal-injury litigation (defendants);
• Donn Randall, commercial litigation;
• Ellen Randle, family law; and
• Ronald Weiss, corporate law, mergers-and-acquisitions law, and tax law.
•••••
United Bank recently announced the promotions of seven staff members at the bank’s corporate offices in West Springfield:
• Nira Flatley was promoted to Assistant Vice President, Collections Manager. A graduate of Bay Path College with nearly 25 years of banking experience, she is responsible for managing residential delinquencies within the bank’s loan portfolio;
• Kristyn Samere, who joined the bank in 2010, is now Assistant Vice President of Training and Development. She is an active member of the Society for Human Resources Management and the American Society for Training and Development. A business administration graduate of Roberts Wesleyan College, she is currently pursuing an MBA at Northeastern University;
• Amy Ganci was appointed Assistant Vice President, Commercial Lending Administration. With more than 21 years of experience in the commercial-lending field, Ganci joined the bank in 2011. She holds a degree in business/financial management from Westfield State University and an associate’s degree from Greenfield Community College;
• Jennifer DeBarge was promoted to Marketing Officer. A graduate of Westfield State University, she joined the bank in 1998 as a teller and transferred to the marketing department in 2003 as marketing assistant;
• Ana Ricardo, who joined the bank in 2008 and has more than 15 years of residential lending experience, was promoted to Underwriting Officer;
• Ann Vallance was promoted to Business Banking Officer. She began her banking career in 2004 and joined the bank in 2012 in the areas of commercial lending and credit analysis; and
• Patricia Pasterczyk was promoted to Business Banking Officer. She joined the credit department in 2011 with more than 30 years of financial-services experience. She graduated magna cum laude from Elms College with a bachelor’s degree in business management. She also attended the School for Financial Studies at Babson College and holds a certificate in advanced paralegal studies from Elms College.
•••••
Shatz, Schwartz, and Fentin, P.C. announced that eight of the Springfield-based firm’s attorneys were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America 2014:
Stephen Shatz was named the Best Lawyers 2014 Springfield Real Estate Law Lawyer of the Year. Shatz, first listed in the publication in 1993, was selected for his work in the specialty areas of banking and finance law and real-estate law. A shareholder since 1969, he concentrates his practice in the areas of real-estate development, real-estate finance, and commercial leasing;
• Steven Schwartz was selected for the areas of corporate law, business organizations and closely held companies, and family-business law. He concentrates his practice in the areas of family-business planning, mergers and acquisitions, corporate law, and estate planning;
• Gary Fentin was selected for his work in the areas of commercial transactions and banking and finance law. His practice areas include commercial and real-estate finance and development, industrial revenue bonds, affordable housing, estate planning, business law, and business foreclosures and workouts. Fentin manages the firm’s tax-exempt bond practice and is the only counsel west of Worcester approved as bond counsel to the Mass. Development Finance Agency;
• Michele Feinstein was selected in the areas of elder law and trusts and estates. She concentrates her practice in the areas of estate planning and administration, elder law, probate litigation, health law, and corporate and business planning;
• Carol Klyman, first listed in the publication in 2007, was selected for her work in the area of elder law. Her practice areas include elder law, estate planning and administration, special-needs trust planning, estate settlement, guardianships, and probate litigation;
• Timothy Mulhern, first listed in the publication in 2008, was selected for his work in the areas of tax law and corporate law. He concentrates his practice in family-business planning, taxation, corporate law, and estate planning;
• Ann (Ami) Weber, first listed in the publication in 2007, was selected for her work in the area of elder law. She practices in the areas of estate-tax planning, estate administration, probate, and elder law; and
• Steven Weiss, first listed in the publication in 2008, was selected for his work in the areas of bankruptcy and creditor-debtor rights as well as insolvency and reorganization law. His practice areas include commercial and consumer bankruptcy, reorganization, and litigation. Weiss manages the firm’s bankruptcy, reorganization, and workout practice, and has been a member of the private panel of Chapter 7 trustees for the District of Massachusetts since 1987, and also serves as a Chapter 11 trustee.

Agenda

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Agenda Departments

Art in the Orchard
Through October: Park Hill Orchard, at 82 Park Hill Road, Easthampton, will play host to 22 sculptures by 22 artists through Oct. 31. Art in the Orchard 2013 is a multifaceted sculpture exhibition and festival taking place on the grounds of a working apple orchard. The core project is a sculpture trail showcasing three-dimensional outdoor works and installations created by local and regional artists. Additional events (such as music, moonlight walks, dances, and school field trips) will be programmed on most weekends. See parkhillorchard.com/art for more information on the artists, their works, and an event schedule. Art in the Orchard is building on the success of the first exhibition in 2011, which came to existence thanks to the desire of Park Hill Orchard owners Alane Hartley and Russell Braen to have their farm play an active part in the local cultural economy, and a dream of Easthampton gallery owner Jean-Pierre Pasche to recreate an outdoor sculpture exhibit like the one set in meadows near his hometown in Switzerland. The success of the 2011 event exceeded expectations, with thousands of visitors discovering the sculpture trail and Park Hill over the 10-week period, many returning more than once. This achievement was recognized by the Mass. Cultural Council, which awarded Art in the Orchard one of its three annual Gold Star Awards, out of more than 5,000 projects funded annually by local cultural councils statewide.

Merry-Go-Round Anniversary Gala
Sept. 19: The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round will mark its 20th anniversary with a gala event at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, starting at 6:30 p.m. The evening will feature food, a cash bar, a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, musical entertainment by Dan Kane & Friends, and more. Tickets cost $45, and tables of 10 are available for the cost of eight tickets. All proceeds benefit the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round. Reserve tickets by calling (413) 538-9838 or visiting www.holyokemerrygoround.org.

Publishing Fair
Sept. 28: Amherst Area Publications will present a publishing fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Masonic Hall at 99 Main St., Amherst. Learn how to find an agent, coach, editor, artist, trainer, or printer. Learn about self-publishing, marketing your work, publishing locally, and more. The $10 admission includes workshops. Pre-registration for workshops via e-mail is strongly suggested. They include: 10:15 a.m., “Do-it-yourself Book Marketing” by Shel Horowitz, author and international speaker; 11:30 a.m., “Intro to Self-publishing” by Sean Cleary, owner of CopyCat;
12:30 p.m. “Memoirs” by Kitty Axelson-Berry, owner of Modern Memoirs Inc. and White Poppy Press; 1:30 a.m., “What Small Presses Do” by Steve Strimer of Levellers Press. To register, contact [email protected] or Amherst Area Publications, P.O. Box 3389, Amherst, MA 01004. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Amherst Cultural Council,
a local agency which is supported by the Mass. Cultural Council. Amherst Area Publications Inc. is a member of the Amherst Chamber of Commerce.

Western Mass. Business Expo 2013
Nov. 6: Planning is underway for the Western Mass. Business Expo 2013, a day-long business-to-business event to take place at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield. This fall’s show, the third edition of the Expo, which is again being produced by BusinessWest, will feature more than 100 exhibitors, seminars on timely issues of the day, special Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and the wrap-up Expo social, which has become a not-to-be-missed networking event. Details of the specific programming will be printed in upcoming editions of BusinessWest and can also be seen online at www.wmbexpo.com or www.businesswest.com. For more information on the event or to reserve booth space, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

Route Geometry

By
Features
Bradley Sets Lofty Goals for Growing Passenger Volume

JetBlue

JetBlue, which will be introducing nonstop service from Bradley to Fort Myers and Tampa this fall, is one many airlines adding routes at the airport.

There was a good deal of pageantry at Bradley International Airport on Aug. 27 as an American Airlines jet rumbled down the runway on its way to Los Angeles.
Water cannons were spraying over the plane as it taxied for takeoff — a traditional sendoff in the aviation business — and before that there were speeches from Connecticut’s governor and officials from the airline. Balloons adorned the gate, and passengers walked over a red carpet to get on the aircraft.
The pomp and circumstance clearly indicated that this was not an ordinary flight, and, in most respects, it wasn’t. It marked the triumphant return of nonstop service from Bradley to the West Coast since airlines ceased such operations more than a decade ago, and Kevin Dillon is confident that this route has staying power.
He also believes that there will be many more ceremonies of a similar nature in the near future. In fact, some of them are no doubt already in the planning stages.
Indeed, in October, JetBlue will begin offering daily nonstop trips to Fort Myers and Tampa, Fla., joining Southwest Airlines in providing service to those cities out of Bradley. And Southwest is planning to add daily nonstop flights to Atlanta three days a week beginning in November, becoming a competitor to Delta in that service.
These new offerings are part of a multi-faceted strategic initiative being implemented by Dillon, executive director of the recently formed Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA), to boost passenger volume at Bradley and make it more of an economic force in the Hartford-Springfield region.
Like many medium-hub airports, Bradley suffered the loss of a number of routes in the wake of the recession, said Dillon, as airlines sought to pare expenses and become leaner operations. By adding more routes and creating competition with certain cities, such as Atlanta and Tampa, Bradley can bring down the cost of many tickets and provide more convenience to those it serves.
And these are just some of the many goals Dillon has set for Bradley. Others include everything from making the word ‘International’ in the facility’s name more meaningful — and accurate — by restoring service to Europe, which was discontinued after a very brief run a decade ago, to bringing more employers to the region by fully exploiting Connecticut’s new Bradley Airport Development Zone.
“This is an airport that has a whole lot of potential that has not been realized,” said Dillon, who took the reins at the CAA just over a year ago. “I think there’s a real opportunity to enhance the overall business. This is a great market area, not only geographically — halfway between Boston and New York — but also the relatively affluent population base, which lends itself to good air service. There is a lot of opportunity here.”
In a wide-ranging interview, BusinessWest talked with Dillon about his plans for Bradley, and how he plans to borrow lessons learned from a number of stops in a 38-year career in aviation and airport management as he goes about taking this regional asset to the proverbial next level.

Tracing His Routes
Dillon started his career with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, in its tunnels and bridges division.
“I quickly saw that the exciting line of business for the Port Authority was the aviation side, so I got myself transferred to aviation and started as a skycap supervisor,” he said, adding that he would go on to hold a number of positions at John F. Kennedy International and LaGuardia airports, including acting general manager at LaGuardia.
“Those years with the Port Authority gave me a good aviation background and education,” he said, “and really allowed me to achieve the things I’ve done within the industry.”
From there, he went on to serve as director of Aviation Operations at Logan International Airport in Boston for the Mass. Port Authority, and then became director of Manchester (N.H.) Airport, while also serving as chief executive of the city’s Aviation Department.
Subsequently, he served as the deputy executive director of Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports, and then served as president and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corp., beginning in early 2008.
At many of his stops, he’s been involved in large development initiatives. At Manchester, for example, he completed a $500 million capital-development program that included two terminal expansions, a parking garage, a new airport-entrance roadway, and extension of both runways. And in Boston, he was involved in the massive, $2 billion ‘Logan 2000’ initiative that included runway, terminal, and parking improvements.
He said the opportunity to lead the new Connecticut Airport Authority — and manage Bradley and the state’s five general aviation airports — represented an intriguing challenge.

The water-cannon salute was just part of the pageantry as American Airlines launched nonstop service from Bradley to Los Angeles last month.

The water-cannon salute was just part of the pageantry as American Airlines launched nonstop service from Bradley to Los Angeles last month.

“This is a real opportunity that most aviation professionals don’t have,” he explained, “meaning a chance to build a brand-new organization from the ground up. This is an exciting time for the airport system and a real challenge for me.”
While there are many aspects to his to-do list at Bradley, the primary assignment is to take the current annual passenger count, roughly 5 million, and move it incrementally closer to, and then hopefully beyond, the airport’s peak years just before the recession, when volume exceeded 7.5 million.
And the key to moving those numbers skyward, obviously, is routes, he told BusinessWest, adding that one of his primary goals is to officiate more ceremonies like the one on Aug. 27.
“When you think it through, every level of success at an airport depends on having healthy route structure,” he explained. “It generates passenger flow, and good passenger flow generates good revenues through the concessions, and good revenues at the airport generate the ability to build additional facilities.
“It really starts with good route structure,” he continued, “and this first year I’ve spent a lot of time analyzing the route structure and trying to enhance the opportunities, and I think we’ve had a good deal of success.”
Upon arriving at Bradley, Dillon told BusinessWest, he realized that, for the last several years, the state was not aggressively marketing the airport to airlines, and this resulted in stagnancy in the number of routes and passengers. One of the reasons for this may have been since-lifted restrictions on travel when it came to state employees.
“I don’t know how you could market the airport if you couldn’t travel and visit the airlines,” he said, adding that airport administrators have recently made up for lost time. “When I first arrived here, it became very clear to me that a lot of time needed to be spent talking to the airlines and convincing the airlines that there are good future plans for this facility.”
And this time and energy has generated results, he went on, citing American’s addition of the non-stop flight to Los Angeles, Southwest’s pending service to Atlanta, and JetBlue’s additional offerings to Florida. These new routes will heighten competition, which will ultimately benefit passengers.
“The more I can bring in competition, the better the price levels will be,” he explained. “There’s a strategy that goes into the route structure you have, because there are two things we’re trying to accomplish — add additional nonstop destinations that we don’t have today, but also bring in fair levels that will make this the airport of choice.”
Looking ahead, he said there are several areas of the country, as well as specific cities, for which Bradley would like to add nonstop service, or more such routes, as the case may be. These include the Texas market, other destinations in Florida, San Francisco, Phoenix, and others.

No Flights of Fancy
But another key to enabling Bradley to attain that ‘airport of choice’ status, of course, is the return of international service to Europe, said Dillon, noting that convenient trans-Atlantic service is vitally important to the local business community.
This was made clear in some recent research undertaken by their airport involving 23 area companies of various sizes. Among the questions put to these businesses were ones involving the size of their travel budgets and the frequency with which they used trans-Atlantic services. The results, said Dillon, were eye-opening.
“Just these 23 companies alone are spending about $40 million annually on trans-Atlantic service,” he noted. “That’s a significant number to take to an airline, combine with an airline-incentive program I’ve put in place here, and put together a great marketing package.”
The primary targets of such service would be London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Paris, he went on, noting that connections can be made at those cities to virtually any city in Europe — and well outside it.
And officials at Bradley are currently putting their pitch together, he said, adding that, in addition to those impressive numbers from the business community, he can offer an incentive program that would waive airline-usage fees for a period of up to two years.
“That becomes a powerful selling point,” he said, adding that he is fairly confident that trans-Atlantic service can be returned to the airport. “Airlines know quite a bit about how much it would cost to operate out of Bradley Airport, but what they don’t have is that very detailed information about the demographics within the market. That’s where we can be extremely helpful to an airline in terms of convincing them to start service here.”
Beyond expansion of the route structure and building passenger volume, there are other immediate goals at Bradley, said Dillon, citing customer service as one.
Within that broad realm, there are plans to enhance not only physical facilities, but also what he called “empirical services,” with that latter category including everything from frequent-flyer programs to frequent-parker programs that will reward people for parking at the airport.
Plans are emerging for a frequent-flyer lounge, he told BusinessWest, adding that such an amenity would be another selling point in the effort to bring back trans-Atlantic service. Meanwhile, the airport is advancing plans for a consolidated transportation center that will house all of the rental cars that are currently scattered in and around the airport, and also handle bus service to the airport and, potentially, rail service that could become a component of enhanced commuter-rail operations between New Haven and Southern Vermont.
“There will be stops in Hartford and Windsor Locks,” he said of that rail-enhancement initiative currently underway. “At a minimum, I need to develop a high-frequency bus service back and forth between that Windsor Locks station and the airport, and who knows? If the volume is there at some point in the future, maybe that [transportation center] becomes a light-rail connection.”
As for the new rental-car facility, it brings a number of benefits for the airport.
“This is a great customer service in that the cars are now located in one convenient location that will be connected to the terminal facilities by a climate-controlled walkway,” he said, “but it will also free up all of this property that the rental-car companies are sitting on today for a higher and better use for economic-development purposes.”
Another goal for Dillon and the CAA is taking down the old, unused Terminal B, he said, adding that it has become a symbol of sorts of some of the downsizing and deterioration within the aviation industry.
“That terminal building is on the main entry to the airport,” he noted. “We want to demonstrate to people that this is a new day at Bradley, and we’re very anxious to take down that old terminal facility and start some new development.”
A third, very broad goal for the CAA is to enhance economic-development efforts at Bradley and the five smaller general-aviation airports in Connecticut, said Dillon, adding that the vehicles for growth will be economic-development zones created at each airport that feature tax incentives for those who locate or expand within them.
“What we would like to do is get out there and promote the availability of these zones, which provide tax incentives for relocation into those zones of businesses that are dedicated to either manufacturing or airport services,” he told BusinessWest. We want to make sure we’re making the best use of those as possible.”
With that, he summoned the term ‘aerotropolis,’ which is used within the industry to describe an airport-centered area devoted to economic development.
Such a facility already exists at Bradley, he said, noting that many manufacturing and airport-services business are located within a few miles of the airport. The goal is to expand that zone and bring more jobs that would benefit both Northern Conn. and Western Mass.

Soar Subject
As he mentioned earlier, Dillon expects that Bradley will be making extensive use of that red carpet rolled out on Aug. 27 at similar events in the weeks and months ahead.
The airport is being aggressive in its pursuit of new routes — and also new opportunities to better serve customers from across the Hartford-Springfield area.
And as it continues to add nonstop flights and amenities designed to make it easier for customers to reach their destinations, Bradley is ultimately clearing a way to get where it wants to go.
That would be status as the airport of choice.

George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]

Court Dockets

By
Court Dockets Departments

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

CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Wendy Leon v. Mount Holyoke Management Inc.
Allegation: Failure to maintain property, causing personal injury: $3,153.63
Filed: 7/22/13

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Lisa Diaugustino v. New Penn Motor Express Inc. and Michael Lacy
Allegation: Employment discrimination: $25,000
Filed: 6/21/13

McLaughlin Paper Co. v. MassMutual Financial Group
Allegation: Breach of contract to service retirement plan: $150,000
Filed: 7/11/13

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Richard and Sarah Watling v. Vee Builders, LLC, Charles Valencik, Zachary Pruzynski, and Molly Thornton
Allegation: Richard Watling sustained an injury while working on the premises of a home under renovation: $105,000
Filed: 8/14/13

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Geraldine Trueheart v. Big Y Foods Inc.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property, causing slip and fall: $15,129
Filed: 7/31/13

Susanne Personette v. J.F. Conlon & Associates Inc. and Utica National Insurance Co.
Allegation: Consumer-protection violation and negligent misrepresentation regarding health insurance: $23,000
Filed: 7/17/13

PALMER DISTRICT COURT
American Express Bank, FSB v. J & J Architectural Inc. and David A. Carter
Allegation: Breach of credit agreement: $13,059.90
Filed: 7/17/13

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Audrey Reed-Batiste v. Sturdy Home Improvement
Allegation: Negligent repairs, causing property damage and loss of income: $25,000
Filed: 7/25/13

John S. Lane and Son Inc. v. Anderson Services Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $9,230.85
Filed: 7/17/13

Melody Hatten v. GMRI Inc. d/b/a Olive Garden Italian Restaurant
Allegation: Plaintiff purchased takeout soup, and the lids on the soup containers did not fit properly, causing second-degree burns: $24,999
Filed: 7/23/13

Nathan Willemain v. F.L. Roberts and Co. Inc. and Richard Branch
Allegation: Branch, while in the scope of his employment, drove the vehicle of another client through the front of the Jiffy Lube store, causing serious injury to the plaintiff: $17,962.77
Filed: 7/23/13

Nurses on Demand, LLC v. Wingate Healthcare Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to pay for nursing services provided: $17,485.00
Filed: 7/24/13

United Rentals Inc. v. Custom Copper and Slate, LTD
Allegation: Non-payment for rental agreement: $9,282.39
Filed: 7/27/13

Marketing

By
Columns Sections
Why You Should Be Cynical About Marketing

Marketing is too important to be left either to marketers or CEOs –– but for different reasons.
Much of marketers’ energy goes into what is popularly known as self-marketing — that is, landing the next marketing gig. If you don’t believe it, take a trip through LinkedIn, where self-promotion among marketers is brazenly and shamelessly transparent.
Marketing is also too important to allow company CEOs (or anyone else of that ilk) to get their hands on it. Inevitably, they will try to shape it to fit some notion they have inside their heads. And it will be wrong. Look no further than JCPenney’s tragic history. Even if those surrounding the CEO, including board members, know what’s wrong, many are prone to nod their heads on cue.
For marketing to be effective, it requires the best that both CEOs and professional marketers can bring to it, the former for the story (no one knows it better), and the latter for astutely translating the story into winning and keeping customers.
If either fails to understand and appreciate the role of the other, marketing fails. If either fails to perform their role, marketing fails. And if either attempts to assume the role of the other, marketing fails.

How to Be a Cynic
Because marketing is critical to a company’s success, the role of a marketer deserves careful attention, and playing the role of cynic is the best way to do perform this task. For example:
• Be cynical of anyone who lays on the marketing jargon. If someone is in marketing and they use terminology you don’t understand, watch out. This person is faking it; they’re arrogant, and they don’t know anything about marketing.
Marketing is quite different. It’s all about clarity and doing away with roadblocks to communication. The goal is bringing people together so they can interact and learn from each other.
• It helps to be cynical and believe that much of what a marketer does is actually a carefully planned exercise in résumé building. All this is quite obvious, particularly when you find a continuous string of Facebook or LinkedIn ‘experience’ and ‘expertise’ updates. Don’t be surprised if you discover that some marketers seem to have only one customer: themselves.
• While the coveted ‘marketing manager’ title is intended to elicit confidence, the cynic recognizes that it may be a cover. Quite often, this title is a sign that the person’s self-appointed role is heavy on talking, telling, and meeting, but extremely light on thinking, planning, and doing.
• Sure, you should be cynical if a marketer talks a lot about what the ‘company’ wants. Rather than focusing on customers, it’s a good bet that the boss is the only customer that counts. Marketing isn’t easy –– it requires a high degree of objectivity that recognizes when saying no is the right thing to do.
• You should be cynical when the new marketer says, “we want to spruce up the company’s image with a new logo.” If this happens, you can be sure you have the wrong person. It’s a ploy that’s often used by hires to let everyone know who is in charge (and to buff up the résumé).
Whatever company it happens to be, its identity demands research, thoughtful discussion, and testing. That’s a rigorous task that takes time. Anyone who wants to rush into adopting a new logo is likely the wrong person for the job.
• If it seems that the company’s marketing program is all over the map, it’s time to be cynical about what’s going on. A primary role of a marketer is to constantly monitor the marketing activities and make sure they reflect the agreed-upon marketing plan. If this isn’t happening, you may have a marketer problem on your hands.
• Crank up the cynicism if a marketer speaks disparagingly about customers. As odd as it might seem, there are marketers who seem to have little regard for their customers –– in effect, their clients.
Try as hard as we might, we can’t be objective, genuinely enthusiastic, or do our best work when negative biases affect our thinking.
• If it seems that those responsible for your marketing think that their task is to get people to buy stuff, it’s time to be cynical. When marketing becomes the handmaiden of sales, it’s no longer effective. In fact, it’s dead. It isn’t easy to maintain a solid customer commitment when the pressure is on to make the numbers.
Yet, if marketers have a justifiable role, it’s doing everything possible to create customers, those who discover the company is aligned with their values and want to do business with it. Inside the company, marketers have the unique task of being customer advocates, making sure that customers are heard and well-represented.
• Be cynical if you’re getting ‘copycat’ marketing. If you think most marketers are innovators and risk takers, think again. While there are exceptions, most marketers play it safe to avoid negative repercussions. They often prefer borrowing surefire ideas from others rather than developing marketing activities that uniquely serve their customers’ best interests.
• If your marketing people seem to be ‘gofers,’ it’s time to be cynical. In fact, it’s long overdue. Far too often, management (and others) treat marketing people as if their role is to do just about everything other than marketing, pulling them in more directions than the latest lottery winner. It’s time to be sufficiently cynical to put a stop to it.

Keeping a Close Eye
All this suggests that a careful review of your company’s marketing may find that cynicism doesn’t go far enough. Marketing is on target only when the various components exhibit a strong sense of unity so the whole delivers a greater impact than the sum of the individual elements. If the picture of your company’s marketing is more like the scattered pieces of a puzzle with the parts bearing little resemblance to one another, it’s time to make some serious changes.
Marketing may not be the only company function that deserves the close attention of a cynical eye –– but it’s a good place to start. n

John Graham, of GrahamComm, is a marketing and sales consultant and business writer. He publishes a free monthly eBulletin, No Nonsense Marketing & Sales; [email protected]

On-the-Job Training

By
Law Sections
Skoler, Abbott & Presser Helps Employers Navigate Legal Minefields

Susan Fentin

Susan Fentin says she much prefers helping clients sidestep employment-law pitfalls than defending them in court.

Employment litigation was a lot easier a generation ago.
“In the late ’70s and early ’80s, the courts started looking for exceptions to employment at will,” said Ralph Abbott, a partner with Springfield-based employment-law firm Skoler, Abbott & Presser, referring to a company’s right to fire someone for any reason. “Prior to that, when somebody sued a company on an employment matter, you went to court and said the magic words ‘employment at will,’ and then it was over.”
However, the regulatory landscape surrounding employment law has changed dramatically since Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 barred discrimination on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, and national origin. The evolution of that law, and new protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993, just to name two developments, have significantly broadened the scope of workers’ rights.
“Now, if an employee feels they’ve been treated unfairly and looks around for a reason to file a lawsuit, it’s pretty easy to find one,” said Susan Fentin, another partner at the firm.
“It’s just become so much more complicated,” added Timothy Murphy, another partner. “You really do need to have the support of a law firm that specializes in this.”
Specifically, Skoler, Abbott & Presser practices only management-side employment law, counting among its clients businesses of all types, from mom-and-pop companies to multinationals. However, its work spans much more than defending companies against worker grievances in court.
“We much prefer keeping clients out of trouble than defending them when they get into trouble,” Fentin said. “With just a 15-minute phone call, we can say, ‘let’s handle it this way.’ It doesn’t always mean we avoid litigation, but they can set themselves up in a better position.”
Abbott explained that the practice is divided into three “buckets.” There’s traditional labor work, such as negotiations, arbitrations, and advising clients on remaining union-free. Another bucket is employee litigation, including actions under the Mass. Commission Against Discrimination and a host of other state and federal agencies. The third area of practice is the everyday work, as Fentin described, of advising clients on the ever-changing world of employment law and how it applies to their companies.
Take wage-and-hour claims, which Abbott called the “lawsuit du jour” in his field these days, with issues ranging from unpaid overtime hours to misclassification of employees as independent contractors.
“The state law changed a few years ago, with triple damage mandatory for any state wage-and-hour violation — even ones that are good-faith mistakes,” Murphy noted. “As you can imagine, as these claims become more lucrative, more folks are looking at these types of lawsuits, so we’ve seen a real spike there.”
The result, Abbott said, is that there’s more risk than ever for employers and their management and human-resources teams, who often don’t have the resources to keep up with how quickly regulations are changing.
“People aren’t born to be managers; they don’t come out of the womb like that,” he told BusinessWest. “They’ve been promoted, usually because of meritorious service, but they need the skills and training to avoid the pitfalls. People just don’t know this stuff.
“That’s where we come in,” he continued. “We see employers as basically well-meaning people trying to do the right thing under difficult circumstances.”
They might do everything right and still get sued, Fentin noted. “All we can do is manage the level of risk and minimize the possibility of a suit to the greatest extent possible.”

Union Labels
Since its inception in 1964, Skoler, Abbott & Presser has worked with employers in the realm of labor relations and collective bargaining, including all aspects of the National Labor Relations Act of 1935.
But that law, too, has evolved with the times. “One major change is that it’s starting to expand the concept of protected, concerted activity into areas where it was never utilized before,” Abbott said. “We’re seeing that they’re poking more into employment relationships than they have in the past.”
Take the brave new world of social media, for example. The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), which administers labor law under the act, has made several high-profile rulings regarding the right of employees to complain about their jobs on Facebook and other sites.
Abbott cited the term ‘electronic water cooler’ when talking about the Internet and social media. “In the old days, when employees gathered around and moaned and groaned about their supervisor or what the company was going or not doing, they’d do it around the water cooler. Now it’s done online, and that has created problems for employers, who see all their dirty linen exposed to the world.”
The NLRB has stepped forcefully into this new paradigm, ruling on multiple occasions that such speech is protected. “The world has changed, and (so has) the way people communicate; people will say things on Facebook and not realize the implications,” Abbott said — and companies must understand and learn to deal with this reality.
This federal push for expanded workers’ rights comes at a time when only seven in 100 private-sector workers in the U.S. are in a union, Murphy noted.
“The NLRB is trying to establish some relevance in an environment where the standard labor relationship is not as predominant as it used to be,” Fentin added.
Abbott agreed. “We’re not seeing the uptick in union organizing — in New England and other parts of the country — that was expected with the present administration and its pro-labor view,” Abbott said of President Obama’s five years at the helm. “That hasn’t materialized into greater numbers of new members for unions or significant organizing drives, so the NLRB is now looking for relevance; they’re looking to expand their clout in the world.”
That’s evident in the recent strikes of fast-food restaurants by employees looking to significantly increase their wages. “That’s not related to a union,” he said, “but it’s clearly aided and supported by unions that want to pressure the fast-food industry on the wage issue.”
Meanwhile, unions are certainly not dead, Fentin said, which is why the firm continues to offer strategies to clients looking to remain non-unionized. “The manufacturing sector in Massachusetts has obviously shrunk over the years,” she noted, “but a fair number of clients in human-services agencies are now big targets for unions. We’ve had a couple of clients targeted by union-organizing drives.”

Educate and Connect
The firm’s client training goes well beyond union avoidance, however, encompassing seminars and briefings on topics such as personnel policies, sexual harassment, wage-and-hour laws, discipline and documentation, drug testing, workplace safety, and, of course, the broad implications of the aforementioned ADA and FMLA.
“The firm teaches master classes in both of those,” Fentin said. “The FMLA is a complicated statute to administer; it requires a lot of procedural paperwork.”
It also has a higher profile than it used to, she added. “More people are aware of it, and more likely to believe that they were treated wrongly because of their protected class.”
In addition, “we do a lot of training in discipline and documentation to make sure supervisors understand the importance of being fair and having a business-based reason” for firing, she explained. “We have an at-will law in Massachusetts, but, frankly, if you don’t give a good reason, people will feel they’re not being treated fairly.”
The firm’s educational efforts extend beyond its clients, she added. “We also write and edit the Massachusetts Employment Law Letter. That requires us to be constantly on top of what’s going on. It’s really written for the HR professional — it’s not esoteric; it’s written in plain language so anyone can take an issue we’re talking about and apply it to their own situation.”
Fentin said her work sometimes feels more like family law than business law because it often involves people with long-standing relationships, and when someone feels wronged, the process can get messy. “I had a mediation yesterday that failed because the employee wanted her day in court, and wanted to be vindicated,” she recalled. “It can be an emotional relationship.”
Murphy said the firm encourages clients to talk with a lawyer before they make any personnel decision that can lead to litigation.
“We walk through what the options are so the problem doesn’t happen,” he said. “We take a lot of pride in keeping people out of trouble, even though that’s not the most lucrative course. We’re building long-term relationships — we’ve had some clients since the 1960s. We don’t want to have one transaction with a client; we want to understand their business and be a partner with them, to help them thrive without having to worry about litigation or union problems.”
Abbott said a good result often comes down to simply treating people well and keeping the lines of communication open. “Unions aren’t going to get any traction in a company that treats their employees fairly. You don’t have to be the best-paying company in the world, but you do have to be focused on the employer-employee relationship. And that commitment starts at the top of the company.”
Fentin sees much of her role as trying to keep honest business people out of trouble. “All they’re trying to do is run their businesses. They don’t want to discriminate against anybody, and they want to make sure they’re doing things the right way.
“It is expensive if it ends up in court,” she added. “Talk about a drain on management morale, a time drain, a financial drain. It’s not fun. The better route is to develop strategies that keep you out of trouble.”

Something New
From anti-bullying policies in the workplace to regulations regarding the use of smartphones at work, “there’s always something new bubbling up,” Fentin said. “There’s never a dull month.”
Medical marijuana is another one of those new, hot issues, partly because of the rift between state laws, in states like Massachusetts where its use has been sanctioned, and federal law, which still maintains that it’s illegal. For instance, what if someone uses marijuana for health reasons at home, then fails a drug test at work because traces are still in his system?
“We’re still looking for court guidance on that,” she said. “Frankly, these decisions will take a long time to bubble through.”
Yet, such uncertainty isn’t frustrating to Fentin, but gratifying in a way, because she knows that clients have much at stake from such issues, and she and her fellow attorneys at Skoler, Abbott & Presser are equipped to help employers deal with them.
“This isn’t something abstract — I’m talking about people and how to help them keep their jobs and make their businesses more efficient,” she said. “I love my clients; my clients are my friends.”
Abbott had a similar take. “I believe a lot of people think of a company as a logo, a building, a product,” he said. “Our view of a company is of people — it’s managers, it’s HR people, trying to do the best they can under tough circumstances.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Shaping a Strategic Initiative

By
Manufacturing Sections
Toolmaker Disston Completes Its Move to Chicopee Location

Mark Marzeotti

Mark Marzeotti says Disston’s move to Chicopee is part of a larger strategic initiative to make the company more competitive.

In the annals of handsaw manufacturing, the name Disston holds a special place.
Indeed, for decades, that brand was synonymous with quality and the phrase ‘top of the line.’ Visit eBay, and dozens of the company’s saws are listed, some with price tags well above $100, depending on the age and condition of the item in question.
But one doesn’t see that name or distinctive medallion much anymore. Instead, the current iteration of the Disston Saw Works of Philadelphia, started in 1840 and later known as Henry Disston & Sons Inc., makes a number of power-tool accessories, including bandsaw, reciprocating jigsaw, and circular saw blades, and other products for the industrial markets under the brand names Blu Mold, Blu Mold Xtreme, RemGrit, and Aggressor. It also makes tools for the consumer market, with most carrying private labels such as Craftsman (Sears and Kmart), Master Mechanic (TrueValue), and Cobalt (Lowe’s).
But while the Disston name is, for now at least, gone from the marketplace, more importantly for the region, it remains a part of the its still-vibrant manufacturing sector, and now appears on signage at the old Buxton warehouse and distribution facility on Plainfield Street in Chicopee.
The company completed the relocation of its remaining U.S. operations from Deerfield to that site last month, the latest step in what has been a large-scale reorganization aimed at keeping the company competitive and reducing its overall cost of doing business, said Mark Marzeotti, Disston’s vice president of Sales & Marketing.
Most of the domestic manufacturing operations have been moved to China, Marzeotti explained, noting that almost all of the company’s main competitors, including Black & Decker/DeWalt, Skil, Stanley, Irwin, and others, moved all or most production overseas years ago.
“We’re one of the last companies to transition manufacturing of power-tool accessories to China,” he noted. “And we were truly at a disadvantage on a cost standpoint, due to labor-cost differences, by continuing to manufacture in the United States; this seems to be the nature of the beast as it relates to our industry.”
The Chicopee plant, which staged an open house on Aug. 30, is roughly half the size (100,000 square feet, compared to 250,000 square feet) of the Deerfield facility, and more efficient, said Marzeotti, noting that several potential sites were explored before Disston settled on the former Buxton building.
There are currently 50 employees at the Chicopee facility, down from 65 in Deerfield (a number that has been falling steadily in recent years), he continued, adding that there is optimism that this figure could rise, based on recent success in that aforementioned consumer market.
Tracing the Disston company’s recent history, Marzeotti said it was owned for several years by Greenfield Industries, which eventually sold it to Stephen Chen, an entrepreneur and owner of several manufacturing operations, including one that made bandsaw blanks for Disston.
Over the past 24 months, Chen moved most components of the U.S. operation to China, where he owns several plants and is also involved in a number of joint ventures, said Marzeotti, adding that the light-manufacturing operations now in Chicopee are centered on production of Remgrit brand products — hole saw, bandsaw, and reciprocating saw blades with a carbide grit edge — for the industrial market, as well as custom welding of bandsaw loops, another subspecialty the company developed in recent years.
Company officials determined that they could these manufacturing components in this country because they are higher-margin products, said Marzeotti, and also because there is not U.S.-made competition in those categories.
Growth in employment numbers at the Chicopee plant is likely, he told BusinessWest, because of improved volume in the consumer market and projections for more of the same in the near future.
“We won a recent review at TrueValue and went from 100 SKUs to 700 SKUs, we’ve added 22 Craftsman-branded items at Kmart, and we’ve doubled our business at Sears,” he explained, adding that, while these consumer accounts and other industrial accounts involve mostly products overseas, there will be likely be a need for additional employees to receive, repackage, and distribute these products, and that work would be done in Chicopee.
Looking down the road, Marzeotti said the company is mulling the possible return of the Disston brand of handsaws. “Since handsaws are still sold, it would likely make sense for us to come out with a premier line of handsaws under the Disston label,” he said, adding quickly that there is no timetable for such an initiative.
In the meantime, though, the company will work to expand production of those other brands that currently roll out of its plants, and grow market share in the ultra-competitive power-tool-accessory market.
And the Chicopee plant will play a big part in those plans.

— George O’Brien

A Big Move to the ‘Small House’

By
The JGS team
Sections The Business of Aging
JGS Strategic Initiative Continues a Tradition of Culture Change

Martin Baicker and Susan Halpern

Martin Baicker and Susan Halpern both used the word ‘transformational’ to describe Jewish Geriatric Services’ plans to adopt the so-called small-house model.

Martin Baicker calls it “the continuation of a journey that started years ago.”
That’s how he chose to describe a strategic initiative at Longmeadow-based Jewish Geriatric Services (JGS), which he serves as president and CEO, to adopt what’s known as the “small-house model of care” into some of its facilities.
The ‘small house,’ or ‘Green House’ model, as it’s also called, involves a more personal, home-like setting for elder care, one that represents the next iteration of ongoing culture change within the industry — and at JGS, said Baicker.
“This furthers a long tradition of caring and embracing culture change — our board is forward-thinking and has always wanted to be on the cusp of what is the latest thinking in terms of care for seniors,” he explained, adding that the ‘journey’ he mentioned started in the ’90s, with movement from the traditional nursing-home setting and operating philosophy to something known as the “neighborhood model.”
This was an effort to “de-institutionalize” nursing homes and make them more home-like, he noted, adding that it involved everything from incorporating carpeting and softer colors on the walls to adding amenities such as common areas, fish tanks, and solariums, to creating a sense of neighborhood by assigning facilities names, such as the ‘New York Unit,’ given to the short-term-care unit.
The small-house model goes further, and, as the name suggests, involves placing 10 to 20 private rooms in a setting that approximates a small house, he continued, noting that the private rooms would be supported by a central living room, or hearth, as well as a dining room and full kitchen.
“People will have their privacy in the rooms, but they can go out to the central living area, or hearth, to engage other residents, visit with family, to have activities — it’s like a home, it’s like a living room,” Baicker told BusinessWest, adding that the concept will first be adopted for a new short-term-care rehabilitation center, and will then be phased into the long-term-care facility, the Julian J. Leavitt Family Jewish Nursing Home.
But the small-house model involves much more than facilities design, said Baicker, adding that it also requires a change in philosophy and operational design that begins with self-directed work teams committed to providing services when and how residents want them.
“The small-house model provides flexibility and choice for each resident,” he explained, “with a personalized team of multi-skilled staff, along with an environment that encourages residents to be an active participant in their care and treatment.”
Susan Halpern, vice president of Philanthropy for JGS, agreed.
The JGS team

The JGS team, left to right: Marty Baicker (president and CEO), Susan Kline (chairman of the board), Susan Halpern (VP of philanthropy), Randy Locklin (JGS project manager), Martin Siefering (principal at Perkins Eastman and project director), Eric Dalen (architectural team leader at Perkins Eastman), Katherine Cienciala (project manager at Perkins Eastman), Paul Steidl (Perkins Eastman), Bob Petroff (executive vice president and administrator of the Julian J. Leavitt Family Jewish Nursing Home), and Karen Johnson (VP of human resources). Missing from photo: Ed Roman (JGS CEO).

“We feel that this is the most transformational thing that we’ve done here since we moved to our Longmeadow campus in the early ’70s,” she said, adding that the scope and potential impact of the initiative should resonate when JGS launches a capital campaign to fund the initiative in the near future.
For this issue, BusinessWest takes an in-depth look at the small-house model of care, and at JGS’s work to stay at what Baicker called the “cutting edge” of advances in the delivery of care in the nursing-home setting.

At Home with the Idea
Baicker said the decision to move ahead aggressively with adoption of the small-house model was one of many suggestions forwarded by a committee assembled by JGS called the Future Vision Task Force.
The group, comprised of board members, key constituents, and JGS staff, spent more than a year researching innovative ways of providing elder care and making recommendations to the full board, he went on.
These suggestions included movement into palliative care, expanding and enhancing technology, general campus-wide enhancements and improvements, and expanding the adult-day-health program with a dementia specialty.
Topping the list, however, was incorporation of the small-house model into both the nursing home and a new short-term-care rehabilitation center.
The small-house model differs from a traditional nursing home — designed much like a hospital with long corridors, rooms on both sides, and a central nursing station — in terms of facility size, interior design, organizational structure, staffing patterns, and methods of delivering skilled professional services, said Baicker, adding that units are designed from the ground up to look and feel like a real home.
“Our goal is to transform how care is delivered at JGS,” he said, adding that, while the model has been embraced in many areas of the country, it is still relatively new to Western Mass., with Mary’s Meadow in Holyoke, a facility operated by the Sisters of Providence Health System, being the only small-house facility currently operating in Greater Springfield.
Beyond the dramatic departure from traditional nursing-home design, the small-house model represents significant change in overall operating philosophy, said Baicker, adding that this evolution, if you will, is “about enhancing dignity and providing JGS residents with cutting-edge rehabilitation and long-term care.”
He summed up this evolving approach with the phrase “resident-directed model of care.”
“The small-house model provides flexibility and choice for each resident with a personalized team of multi-skilled staff, along with an environment that encourages residents to be an active participant in their care and treatments,” he said.
Elaborating, he said that, historically, and in the traditional nursing-home model, residents work around the schedule of the staff. In the small-house model, the staff works around the schedule of the residents.
“To me, it’s about dignity and choice,” he went on. “People can choose to wake up when they want to wake up, not when people tell them to wake up. They can eat when they want, bathe when they want … it’s a philosophical change that’s a work in progress; we want this to be like their home.”
There will be an organizational, or structural, change to accompany the philosophical change, he told BusinessWest, adding that at the heart of this development will be self-directed work teams that represent a dramatic departure from the traditional staffing hierarchy at nursing homes.
“What’s going to change in the small-house model is you’re going to flatten that hierarchy,” he went on, adding that certified nursing assistants (CNAs) will be providing most of the care. “We’ll create a cross-trained, multi-skilled position; these individuals will do traditional things that CNAs have done in the past — the personal care they’ve provided — but in our model, they’ll also do other things. They’ll provide some activities, they’ll do laundry, and in some models, they’ll cook.
“They will spend a lot more time with the residents because they’re in the house doing all these other tasks,” he continued. “The CNAs will spend the bulk of their time with the residents, which is important, because if their condition changes, they’ll notice it first.”
The small house will be a self-contained unit in every sense of that phrase, he said, adding that the self-directed teams will make their own schedules, and there will be much more engagement between the residents and the staff.
“This will be a great place for staff to work,” Baicker noted. “They’ll work in the same place every day and with the same residents every day. And when that happens, it’s almost like they become family members.”
To assist with implementation of these sweeping changes, JGS has assembled a team of experts to work with the staff. The company has selected the architectural firm Perkins Eastman, an international leader in the design of elder-care living facilities, and designer of several small-house facilities. Additionally, JGS has engaged Judith Rabig, one of the foremost experts on culture change and small-house design, to assist with the planning process. Rabig is a nurse and gerontologist who has created plans for more than 20 small houses across the country. She is also the director of the National Alliance of Small Houses.

Room for Improvement
Baicker and Kimball Halpern told BusinessWest that there are no timetables in place yet for the capital campaign or the start of construction, although the project has reached the design phase. And the overall price tag for the initiative has yet to be determined.
What is known is that GJS is committed to continuing a tradition of being at the forefront of change and innovation in elder care, and movement to the small-house format is merely the latest example of this philosophy.
As Baicker said, it’s simply the continuation of a journey.

George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]

Net Results

By
Features
The Armor Are Winning in the Ways That Matter Most

Alex Schwerin

Alex Schwerin says the Armor have made incremental progress in virtually every business aspect of the operation since the team started play in 2009.

Alex Schwerin says there a number of ways to measure the success of a minor-league sports franchise like the Springfield Armor, which he serves as president.
And the won-loss record, while certainly one of them, wouldn’t be near the top of his list.
“The record on the court goes up and down, but that’s the nature of minor-league sports,” he explained. “Some years you’re good; some years you’re bad. In our league [the NBA’s Developmental League, or D League], the rosters turn over every year. Some years, you’re going to have good players; some years, you’re going to have bad players. One year, you make the playoffs; the next year, you’re not as good.”
He said the more effective barometers are found off the court, in overall ticket sales, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and the broad category of community involvement. And with these metrics and others, the Armor’s team — meaning those in the franchise’s office in Monarch Place — have been able to consistently move the needle in the desired direction.
“Every year has been a little better than the year before, and in pretty much all aspects of the business,” said Schwerin as he talked with BusinessWest a few months before the start of the Armor’s fifth season. “We’re gaining ground — not by leaps and bounds; it’s not like we’re selling out every game now — but each year has been a little better.”
And while it doesn’t say as much on his job description, continuing this pattern is essentially Schwerin’s primary assignment as president. And he believes he and the rest of the staff are in a good position to do just that.
One big reason why is the nature of the club’s affiliation with the NBA’s Brooklyn Nets, the parent club. Since the start of the 2011-12 season, the Armor have been in what’s known as a ‘hybrid’ affiliation, he noted, adding that this is the D League’s version of the relationships that exist between major-league baseball teams and their minor-league clubs.
The team is still privately owned, he explained, but it is affiliated with the Nets, who essentially handle all aspects of the basketball operation, from setting the roster to hiring the team’s new coach — Doug Overton, who was an assistant in Brooklyn for many years — to establishing a system of play.
“The Nets basically oversee the basketball side of the organization for us, and this leaves us to do the things we do best — ticket sales, entertainment, community involvement, sponsorship sales, and marketing the team,” he went on, adding that, prior to the establishment of the hybrid arrangement, management was involved in drafting players and hiring a coaching staff.
With those responsibilities now being handled by the brass in Brooklyn, Schwerin and his staff of 10 can focus on those off-the-court metrics he mentioned earlier, including something called the Read to Achieve Program, which may be the most intriguing measure of the team’s place in the region.
Launched in 2011, this initiative invites area elementary schools to essentially partner with the club to provide incentives for students to read, he said. When specific goals set by a participating school are met, students can win prizes provided by the team through sponsors. The big prize, earned when goals are hit for all four weeks of the program, are tickets to an Armor game.
Last year, 15,000 students enrolled in 45 schools across 12 communities took part, said Schwerin, and very early into the signup phase for the upcoming season, 14,000 students in 38 schools across 16 communities are set to participate.
“This program works on so many levels,” he said. “It’s a good community initiative — it promotes reading, and it’s helping schools incentivise kids to do what they should be doing. But it also drives additional attendance to the game and helps us introduce the Armor to more families.”
For this issue, BusinessWest talked at length with Schwerin about the Armor, the progress the team has made in its first four seasons in Springfield, and how the pieces are in place for continuing and hopefully accelerating the pace of progress the franchise has enjoyed.

Court of Opinion
As he talked about his club, Schwerin also made a number of references to the parent team in Brooklyn, which is generating a good deal of talk in the NBA, and for a number of reasons.
These range from the club’s move last year from New Jersey to the now-thriving borough of New York, to the blockbuster trade made with the Boston Celtics earlier this summer. That deal sent a number of draft picks and a few players (including one who spent most of last year with the Armor) to the Celtics, in exchange for three players, including future hall of famers Paul Pierce and Kevin Garnett.
The deal is expected to help the Nets become contenders and perhaps push league champion Miami as it goes for a three-peat in 2013-14, but it is not expected to do much in terms of the Armor’s fortunes, said Schwerin, who noted that one scenario could change that equation dramatically.
Indeed, the current NBA collective bargaining agreement stipulates that, if veteran NBA players recovering from injury agree to do so, they can be assigned to the team’s D-League affiliate for a rehab stint. When asked about the prospect of having Pierce or Garnett (both of them older players who have been nagged by injuries in recent years) in Springfield for a game or two, Schwerin smiled broadly but quickly acknowledged that such a development is unlikely.
What is likely, though, is a continuation of the club’s pattern of continuous improvement in most matters off the court, said Schwerin, adding, again, that the club’s place in the standings is something mostly beyond the Springfield-based management’s control.
What that staff can do, thanks to the hybrid affiliation agreement, is focus all its energies on things it can control — and its basic overall mission, said Schwerin, which is not necessarily to win basketball games, but instead to provide “affordable family entertainment.”
This has been Schwerin’s assignment since he became the Armor’s first employee in the summer of 2009, after he left a job with the Modesto Nuts, the single-A affiliate of Major League Baseball’s Colorado Rockies, to be closer to his then-girlfriend (now wife), whom he met while they were both attending UMass Amherst; he was in the school’s Sports Management program.
He told BusinessWest that, while he certainly knows basketball, he’s more than willing to hand over all personnel and other game-related matters to the Nets, an operational development that brings a number of benefits for the organization, and is certainly a stronger affiliation than when the team had ties to three teams — the Nets, New York Knicks, and Philadelphia 76ers — for its first two seasons.
“The Nets, because they’re hiring the coaches and hiring the athletic trainer, will have a much higher comfort level with sending their players down on assignment to Springfield during the season,” he said. “Also, the players who are playing in Springfield are playing in their [the Nets’] system, with the same terminology on the court, the plays, and defensive schemes.
“So if they do call a player up,” he continued, “the learning curve is much shorter in terms of getting them in the flow; the player already knows what it’s like to play in the Nets’ system.”
But the biggest benefit is that the Armor’s Springfield-based staff can devote its energies to the business side of the ledger, meaning everything from booking flights and hotels for the team’s many road trips, to making the very most of the team’s 24 home dates, especially those that fall on weekends.

Favorable Bounces
There are 16 tilts in that category, including some Sunday contests, said Schwerin, adding that, while his staff doesn’t ignore those contests that fall on the other days of the week, there is simply little that can be done to make those games lucrative.
“We’d love to have 24 Friday and Saturday nights because those nights are clearly better from a business perspective, and it’s much easier for fans to attend, but the reality is that there are only so many Fridays and Saturdays to go around in the wintertime,” he said, adding that the MassMutual Center’s primary tenant, the Springfield Falcons, also covets those evenings. “Our philosophy is basically to focus on the big nights, focus all our resources on those, and make our big nights bigger.
“We have 24 home games, and the approach we take is that we have 24 opportunities to entertain the fans and hopefully make sure they have a good time,” he continued. “If we’re successful, they’ll want to come back and see more games, and they’ll also tell their friends.”
Overall, attendance has been rising steadily, if not dramatically, since the first tipoff in the late fall of 2009, and is now averaging roughly 2,700 per game, he said, adding that, with the Armor (and the D-League in general), attendance isn’t determined by the roster, its record, or a given night’s opposition. Instead, it’s driven by just how well the organization delivers that aforementioned product — affordable family entertainment.
“Most of the people who are coming to our games are not necessarily coming because the team wins or loses or because they like the point guard,” he explained. “They’re coming because their daughter is in a dance studio that’s performing at halftime, or their son is on a youth basketball team that’s going to get to high-five the players before the game on the court.
“It’s the experiences that we’re providing that drive attendance,” he went on. “So we have to make the product appeal to more than just basketball fans — it has to appeal to families.”
There are a number of specific initiatives geared toward making the team and its games family-friendly, he said, citing appearances by the team mascot at events across the region and throughout the year; entertainment before games, at halftime, and during timeouts; and T-shirt giveaways during contests.
All of this and more is designed to bring people to the MassMutual Center, and then, hopefully, back again.
One key to making the Armor a known commodity and an attraction is community involvement, said Schwerin, adding that it has come in many forms since the team debuted — from tornado-relief efforts two years ago to recognition efforts for fallen police officers; from toy drives during the holidays to promotions designed to support the fight against breast cancer.
The team has been recognized by the league for making more than 100 community appearances in each of the past two years, he went on, adding that the mascot and/or players have appeared at some event — from fall festivals to the July 4th parade in East Longmeadow — almost every weekend.
But the most visible, and effective, initiative within the community is Read to Achieve, he went on, adding that the cause is an important one, and the team’s efforts in this regard build visibility and credibility with its most important constituency — families.
“When the kids come, we parade them around the court and recognize them,” said Schwerin, noting that the winners from a specific school all come on the same night, and their parents and friends can purchase discounted tickets for the same contest. “This recognition increases the interest level of the kids and prompts them to use their free ticket — they want to get recognized — and it also increases the involvement from parents, family, and friends, who want to see their son, brother, niece, or nephew honored on the court.
“This program ties in very well with our grassroots marketing efforts,” he went on. “We don’t have a lot of resources to buy a bunch of TV advertising, billboards, and print ads to help become ingrained in the community and have everyone know what we’re doing. Read to Achieve allows us to get in front of all these kids and, in turn, their parents. We get more exposure from this program than from anything else we do.”
Based on the strong interest expressed to date, Schwerin expects that the team will likely sign up at least 70 schools for the next year of the program, and in communities stretching from Hartford (the team draws well from Northern Connecticut) to the Berkshires.

Winning Formula
While he likes to think about the possibility, Schwerin acknowledged that it is highly unlikely that Kevin Garnett or Paul Pierce will be coming through the door at the MassMutual Center this winter.
But there will certainly be many less-sensational ways for this now-established franchise to continue moving the needle in the right direction when it comes to attendance, sponsorship, and awareness within the community.
Success on the court is important to any basketball team, but for this operation, there are, as Schwerin noted, many other, more effective ways to measure success in this league.
And by most accounts, the Armor are winning in the ways that matter most.

George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]

Appetite for Growth

By
Environment and Engineering Sections
The Dennis Group Becomes a Leader in Food Engineering

DennisGroupSabraPlant

The 120,000-square-foot Sabra hummus plant near Richmond, Va., which the Dennis Group built in 2009, will double in size by 2014.

A large poster hanging in the stairway of the historic Fuller Block building in downtown Springfield effectively tells the story of the company now occupying most of that landmark.
Well, sort of.
The black-and-white image, affectionately titled ‘The Geeks’ by staff at the Dennis Group, presents what looks like three college students eating hamburgers, with some accompanying verbiage: “we were fascinated by food even before we become engineers.”
It all makes sense — if one is familiar with the company and the niche it has successfully cultivated over the past quarter-century. This would the field known simply as ‘food engineering,’ although that phrase is somewhat of a misnomer and certainly needs some clarification, said Dan McCreary, one of the firm’s four partners.
The company doesn’t actually engineer food, he noted, adding that it designs and builds specialized plants that process many of the convenience-based foods consumers buy every day, from prepackaged lettuce to energy drinks to frozen, ready-to-heat sandwiches.
“We’re actually architects and process engineers for the food industry,” McCreary went on, acknowledging that the latter term itself requires explanation.
And he provided one, noting that there is an elaborate process involved with building such facilities — from selection of a location (more on that later) to operations to energy efficiency, a subject of increasing importance as fuel costs rise and the desire to be ‘green’ increases.
By excelling in the art and science of helping clients navigate this process, the Dennis Group has witnessed explosive growth since it was launched by founder Tom Dennis in his attic. It now boasts nearly 200 employees in its Springfield headquarters (now spaced over four of the renovated Fuller Block’s five floors) and another 100 in satellite offices strategically located in Salt Lake City, San Diego, Toronto, and Atlanta.
Meanwhile, the client list has grown to include many of the household names from the food industry — Nestle, Dole, Tropicana, PepsiCo, and numerous others — and the Dennis Group now books projects totaling more than $500 million annually.
Some of this success can be traced to timing — specifically, an explosion in the popularity of convenience-based foods and the almost (that’s almost) recession-proof nature of the food industry, said McCreary, noting that “people have to eat.”
But beyond these realities, the firm’s remarkable growth can be traced to its relationship-building abilities — it has drawn repeat business from many clients as they have grown and expanded into new business opportunities — as well as an operating philosophy based on calculated risk taking and what often would be considered unorthodox thinking.
As one example, McCreary, who spoke for the company while Dennis was attending to business at one of the satellite offices, cited some aggressive action during the recent economic downturn.
At the height of the Great Recession, two of the firm’s $100 million projects were essentially halted, he noted, but Dennis’ response was not to trim staff and hunker down, but rather hire some of the the talent that was becoming available.
“He said, ‘we’ve often struggled to find the right people when the economy was good, and now, with the engineering, architectural, and construction industry being hit so hard, there’s talent out there,’” McCreary recalled. “So we went on a hiring spree.”
The bold move paid off for the company, he went on, because it was well-positioned to seize the opportunities that came about as economic conditions improved — and it did, adding a number of projects to the portfolio.
For this issue and its focus on environment and engineering, BusinessWest takes an indepth look at the Dennis Group, its appetite for growth, and its status as a true leader in the large and still-expanding realm of food engineering.

Salad Days
They’re called Uncrustables.
That’s the name Smucker’s has put on a simple yet fascinating product — a frozen, ready-to-eat peanut butter and jelly sandwich, one that comes, as that name suggests, without the crust.
“It’s every kid’s dream — they stamp out the center of the sandwich so there’s no crust,” said Tony Graves, another senior partner at the Dennis Group, noting that Smucker’s reached out to the Dennis Group to design and build what eventually became the largest automated bakery in the world, in Scottsville, Ky., to produce Uncrustables.
Smucker’s addition to the supermarket’s frozen-foods aisle is just one example of the direction the nation — and the food industry that serves it — is taking, said Graves and McCreary, noting that there is ever-greater demand for convenience products, including some that probably couldn’t have been imagined a decade or two ago.
Like packaged salad.
“It’s the simplest ideas that are amazing,” said McCreary, who was vice president of Finance for Dole when it ventured into the packaged-salad business more than 20 years ago. “I mean, how hard is it to make a salad? Who is going to buy this? But, as it turned out, everyone did.”
And this phenomenon is one of the many reasons why the Dennis Group has enjoyed steady growth for the past 26 years, said McCreary, who hired the firm (then with 20 employees) to expand Dole’s facilities in California to accommodate the new product lines, and then was recruited by Tom Dennis to join him in his growing venture.
McCreary said he was attracted to the Springfield-based firm by everything from its already-established reputation for excellence to its decidedly different operating philosophy, or culture.
McCreary described the style as “informal,” and as an example, he referred to his business card, which lists only his name and contact information.
“We don’t have titles … we have very little in terms of a management structure,” he explained. “We have 300 people, but we don’t have an employee handbook — not because we forgot or it’s too hard, but because we want people to use their own judgment.
“Our philosophy is that we hire bright, ambitious people,” he went on, “and if we trust an employee to handle millions of our clients’ dollars, then we trust them to know what a sick day is.”
But what ultimately attracted McCreary to the Dennis Group was its vast growth potential, which he recognized while the firm handled Dole’s expansion efforts.
Taking such a facility from the drawing board to reality is a lengthy, complicated process (there’s that word again), he went on, adding that the Dennis Group ultimately owes its sweeping success to its ability to effectively guide clients through the many steps involved.

The Complete Package
The firm’s full menu of services includes everything from design to construction management; from identifying and handling environmental concerns to waste disposal and energy consumption, he told BusinessWest, adding that the process usually begins with the all-important questions of what to build and, perhaps more important, where.
Indeed, geography is a key consideration in the food-production industry, McCreary and Graves explained, adding that location has an impact on everything from energy costs to distribution.
“With these large companies, if you’re trying to distribute a product nationwide, you want to be more toward the center of the country, rather than up in the corner in some cases,” McCreary said, pointing in the air to the Western Mass. region.
“The process begins with questions like, ‘where do your raw materials come from?’ ‘where do you distribute the product?’ and ‘where is the most beneficial location to meet those needs?’” he continued, adding that, once a preferred geographic region is identified, the Dennis Group works with the client to select a specific location.
And there are a number of factors that go into picking a site — from cost and availability of power (food-processing plants consume huge amounts of energy) to the ability of a given community to handle the large waste streams such plants generate.
“A lot of what we solve with a simple checklist of site needs is an educated guess for what the building size will be and how it can be laid out on the site,” said Graves. “It’s what we try to accomplish before the client makes a mistake.”
Ten sites that might be favorable for new building, he added, will quickly turn into only two sites, due to the complexity of the food-production processes and distribution needs.
With assistance on the economic-development side for regional tax-incentive financing, grants for employee training, etc., the Dennis Group is able to identify and design a purpose-built structure around a customized site, and provide construction management for production of a variety of foods and beverages.
In food engineering, as in most business sectors, success breeds more success, said Graves, who has been with the company for 21 years. He said the food industry, while large in terms of dollars, is much smaller in terms of players and the individuals managing them. In this environment, a good track record can help foster relationships that bring new additions to the portfolio.
“You run into the same people year in and year out,” he explained. “They move around within the industry and bring us along with them.”
One example of such relationship-building is the Sabra hummus company. The Dennis Group started working with it in 2009, when it was a $40 million enterprise that wanted to go national. Currently, the firm is leading a project that will double the size of a 120,000-square-foot plant for what is now a $500 million company.
While repeat business is a leading contributor to the firm’s continued growth, the need within the food industry to reduce energy consumption and retrofit aging plants so they are more efficient has also become a source of new business.
“In food, it’s ‘heat things up, cool things down,’ and you’re always cleaning things in these plants,” said Graves. “So that’s where all their energy usage is, and sometimes energy costs more than the raw materials.”
One of the firm’s recent projects, the Frito-Lay Sun Chips plant in Casa Grande, Arizona, is a net-zero facility, meaning that it has annual zero net energy consumption and zero carbon emissions; its energy is supplied by solar-powered facilities.

Food for Thought
Looking ahead, McCreary and Graves said the Dennis Group is well-positioned for continued growth in a number of respects, from those aforementioned relationships within the food industry to simple geography, especially in the form of its satellite offices in Salt Lake City and Atlanta, areas clients are increasingly targeting for new building and expansion.
Meanwhile, the nation’s consumers have a seemingly unlimited appetite for convenience food, and an imaginative and resourceful food industry continues to find new and different ways to meet that demand.
These trends and developments bode well for a company that has always had designs on being a business leader — in every sense of that phrase.
Those who don’t know the story of the Dennis Group probably won’t understand the relevance of that poster in the Fuller Block stairway.

Elizabeth Taras can be reached at [email protected]

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