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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

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

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 244: October 13, 2025

Joe Bednar talks with Tony Worden, President and CEO, Greenfield Cooperative Bank

Tony Worden says Greenfield has long been an affordable alternative in Western Mass., but times are changing, and it is becoming far less so.

Tony Worden’s long career in the finance world, most of it in commercial lending, eventually led to his assuming the presidency of Greenfield Cooperative Bank in 2021. There, he continues to grow not only the bank’s business, but its impact on the community. On the next episode of BusinessTalk, Tony talks with BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar about his passion for community banking and the economic opportunities and challenges he sees on the horizon, but focuses much of the discussion on how his team helps customers understand the risks of cybercrime, check fraud, and other threats, which have become more sophisticated in recent years. It’s must listening, so tune into BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest on both audio and video platforms, and now sponsored by Greenfield Cooperative Bank.

 

 

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Daily News

WESTFIELD — After four decades of dedicated service to the community, Jerome’s Party Plus, a fixture in the party rental industry, will close its doors on Oct. 31. The decision to close has been made with a heavy heart, reflecting on the cherished relationships and memories built over the years.

Founded in 1985, Jerome’s Party Plus has been honored to serve a long list of loyal customers throughout the local region, from intimate gatherings, weddings, and fundraising events to college graduations, fairs, and festivals. The company has prided itself on fostering personal handshake relationships, ensuring each client, regardless of size, received the highest level of service and care.

“We are deeply grateful to our loyal customers for their unwavering support over the years,” said Greg Jerome, founder of Jerome’s Party Plus. “It has been a privilege to be a part of so many significant events. Each experience has enriched and strengthened our commitment to serving the community. We hope that our customers enjoyed working with us as much as we did with them.”

Jerome’s Party Plus has always believed in the power of personal connections, emphasizing face-to-face interaction and a mutual respect approach to meet the needs of every customer. Unfortunately, after the loss of its largest customer, Jerome had to make the difficult decision to close the company’s doors forever.

Jerome’s Party Plus will continue to operate as usual until the closing date, providing services and support to its customers throughout the local region. The company will have an online auction to liquidate its extensive inventory in early December. Watch for the auction with Capital Recovery Group LLC at www.crgllc.com.

Daily News

LENOX — Renaissance Investment Group recently celebrated its 25th anniversary at a well-attended party at Gateways Inn, just next door to its 45 Walker St. office in Lenox. The Renaissance team, many of whom have been a part of the story from its beginning in September 2000, mingled with nearly 100 clients and local businesspeople who attended.

Tom Malinowski, one of the four founding partners, reflected on the first decade from the original concept of founding a wealth management business which saw the company’s fiduciary responsibility to its clients as sacrosanct. This included personalized investment management and financial counseling as the central part of Renaissance’s engagement with its clients, unlike the industry trend towards commoditizing investment management clients into often unsuitable investment choices and standardized financial planning products.

Trevor Forbes, president and chief investment officer of Renaissance, followed, reflecting on how this approach has been developed, bringing in more, specifically international expertise. He also covered the change in ownership nine years ago from Berkshire Bank to independence again, explaining that, despite all these changes, the central guiding principal toward engagement with clients had remained true to the founder’s principles.

The development of the team to provide for succession and continuity has been a key part of the firm’s development since 2016, and this included the recruitment of Chris Silipigno in 2018, who is now CEO.

Silipigno brought the gathering up to date with the significant growth in the size of the business over the last seven years; the recruitment of new, younger talent; and his plans for the future. His message was one of planned development through continuity, emphasizing the importance of retaining the service of talented individuals in terms of investment management and financial counseling with an unwavering commitment to deep client relationships.

“With nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars in assets under management, serving second-, third- and even fourth-generation clients across the entire U.S., Renaissance has grown tremendously in size and scope over its 25 years in business,” Silipigno said. “And we’re equally excited to expand our footprint together with our strategic partners, while staying true to our founding principles, in the coming years.”

Daily News

PITTSFIELD — On Thursday, Oct. 16 at 7 p.m., Jewish Literary Voices: A Federation Series, in collaboration with the Jewish Book Council, returns for a third season with a presentation by biographer Ann Berman, who will discuss her book, Louis Graveraet Kaufman: The Fabulous Michigan Gatsby Who Conquered Wall Street, Took Over General Motors, and Built the World’s Tallest Building.

This free Jewish Federation of the Berkshires program will be presented via Zoom. Click here to register.

Author and cultural journalist Berman’s fascinating biography recounts the life and legacy of a titan of American banking, Louis Graveraet Kaufman (1870-1942), also known in his time simply as ‘LG.’ This fast-moving narrative tells the story of a half-Jewish, part-Indigenous man from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula who lived a wild Jazz Age life, built one of the country’s largest banks, built a 26,000-square-foot log lodge in the woods and the luxe 625 Park Ave. building in NYC, led a takeover of General Motors, and helped conceive and finance the Empire State Building.

Daily News

WESTFIELD — On Friday, Oct. 17, A Salute to Soldiers will host its seventh annual fundraiser and its first annual golf tournament at Tekoa Country Club in Westfield to benefit America’s VetDogs (AVD), a nonprofit that breeds, trains, and places service dogs with disabled veterans and first responders.

The service dogs trained through AVD provide enhanced mobility and renewed independence, allowing graduates to once again live a life without boundaries. AVD trains and places service dogs for those with physical and/or mental disabilities, such as PTSD; guide dogs for individuals who are blind or have low vision; and facility dogs as part of the rehabilitation process in military and VA hospitals. It costsmore than 50,000 to breed, raise, train, and place one assistance dog; however, all of AVD’s services are provided at no charge.

Since 2018, A Salute to Soldiers has raised nearly $75,000 and sponsored 10 future service dogs. This year, the fundraiser is expected to raise more than $20,000 and sponsor three future service dogs, all of whom will be named by attendees during the event. The fundraising goal of $25,000 would bring the event’s all-time donation to $100,000.

Tickets for both the golf tournament and the reception are still available. Golf tickets are available for $150 per golfer, or $500 per foursome, and include lunch and dinner. Reception tickets are available for $30. The reception will feature a dinner, live music, a 50/50 raffle, raffle prizes donated by local businesses, and a long putt competition.

In attendance will be local veterans who have graduated from the VetDogs program with their service dog, as well as service dogs in training.

Golf registration begins at 10 a.m., with a shotgun start time of 11:30 a.m. Doors open for the reception at 4:30 p.m., with dinner served at 6 p.m. The speaking program will begin at approximately 6:45 p.m. Click here to register.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Student Prince and the Fort is celebrating its 90th anniversary with the Mighty Oktoberfest, a two-night festival filled with music, food, and fun that will turn Fort Street into Springfield’s own slice of Munich.

Today and Saturday, Oct. 10-11, Fort Street will be closed to traffic and open up for a weekend of celebration, with sizzling sausages, giant pretzels, frosty boots of beer, and non-stop entertainment.

Friday’s festivities kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a ceremonial keg tapping by Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, who will also present the Student Prince with a dedication from the city of Springfield in honor of its 90th anniversary. The party continues with live performances from Berkshire Mountain Wanderers, the 413s, and 7 Roads.

Saturday’s fun begins at 2 p.m. and features the Brat Pack, DJ Adapt, and the Eagles Experience lighting up the stage until late in the evening.

“Ninety years is an amazing milestone,” the team at the Student Prince stated. “We’ve shared so many great memories with our guests over the years, and we can’t wait to celebrate this one with the entire community. Oktoberfest is about the celebration of fun, laughter, and togetherness — and that’s exactly what we’re bringing to Fort Street.”

Oktoberfest is supported by Liberty Bank and Commercial Distributing, along with many local partners. Tickets are on sale now. Visit www.studentprince.com for full details and to join the fun.

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Graffiti artists from throughout Western Mass. will be part of the fifth annual public Graffiti Jam, “Burn or Get Burnt Cinco,” on Saturday, Oct. 11 from 8 a.m. until dark at 11 Jackson St., Holyoke. Members of the community are encouraged to attend this free live painting event showcasing local graffiti artists, with music by DJ Recone.

“Burn or Get Burnt Cinco” is presented by Common Wealth Murals, Baystate Art Supplies, the Springfield Cultural Council, and the city of Holyoke. The event will bring together some of the region’s most talented graffiti artists and offers an opportunity for the community to watch graffiti masterpieces come to life in real time, connect with artists, and enjoy an atmosphere full of creativity and energy.

This annual Graffiti Jam event is an opportunity to show graffiti as an art form, and as something that is appreciated by people of all walks of life in Western Mass. and all over the world. The Springfield area has had an active community of graffiti artists since the 1980s. In Western Mass., as is the case in regions across the U.S. and around the world, graffiti artists have developed geographically distinct and recognizable variations on the art form which continue to be practiced by dozens of artists today.

Graffiti is one of the few truly American-born artforms, which began as a form of communication and a game among urban teenagers. Through persistence and creativity, early graffiti writers developed an entirely new and separate art form based on their independent understanding and expression of style, which was actualized by inventing new artistic tools and techniques. Graffiti is also one of the five core elements of hip hop, which recently celebrated its 50th anniversary.

Daily News

CHICOPEE — Ohana Clubhouse, a vibrant and imaginative new indoor play facility, announced its official grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m. at its newly renovated location at 43 Sheridan St., Chicopee. This event will mark the unveiling of a unique space designed to foster creativity, learning, and community for children and their families.

The grand opening festivities will commence with a formal ribbon-cutting ceremony, symbolizing the official launch of Ohana Clubhouse. Immediately following, families and community members are invited to explore the enchanting world within. Guests will have the opportunity to tour the various themed play areas, each meticulously crafted to provide a rich and immersive experience for children aged 10 and under.

Ohana Clubhouse is more than just a playground; it’s a miniature town built for big imaginations. Children can step into the spotlight at the Palace Theater, race to the rescue from Station 17 Fire House, refuel their adventures at Grayson’s Gas, or engage in pretend play at Memere’s Market. For the littlest visitors, a dedicated and safe infant playhouse offers a gentle space for discovery.

Recognizing the needs of parents, the clubhouse also features a comfortable Parent Patio, a designated area where caregivers can relax and socialize while maintaining a clear view of their children at play. A Quiet Corner provides a peaceful nook for reading and moments of calm.

“We are overjoyed to finally open our doors and share Ohana Clubhouse with the community,” said Ashley Kohl, owner of Ohana Clubhouse. “Our vision was to create a magical space where children can explore their passions and parents can feel at ease and connected. We believe in the power of play to shape young minds, and every corner of our facility is designed to inspire curiosity, social interaction, and joyful learning. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating this new chapter for our community’s families.”

Health Care Healthcare News

Mixed Signals

 

 

The South Berkshire Community Health Coalition (SBCHC), a program of Railroad Street Youth Project, has released findings from the 2025 Prevention Needs Assessment (PNA) Survey, providing a timely snapshot of youth substance use and behavioral health in South Berkshire County.

The biennial survey — administered to public school students in grades 8, 10, and 12 — serves as a tool in measuring the community’s effectiveness in supporting youth well-being and preventing substance use. This year’s results reveal a concerning upward trend in alcohol and cannabis use among youth, reversing nearly a decade of progress.

“These numbers are somewhat of a mixed bag,” said Laura Rodriguez, director of SBCHC. “We’re definitely seeing the longer-term effects of the pandemic — particularly how substance use became more normalized in homes. And that’s where the solution starts: with us. We need parents, families, and trusted adults to step into leadership roles in shifting norms and expectations. This isn’t something young people can navigate on their own.”

“We’re definitely seeing the longer-term effects of the pandemic — particularly how substance use became more normalized in homes. And that’s where the solution starts: with us. We need parents, families, and trusted adults to step into leadership roles in shifting norms and expectations. This isn’t something young people can navigate on their own.”

Among the key findings from the 2025 PNA, alcohol use is rebounding. After declining for several years, alcohol use among South County youth began to rise in 2021 and is now the most commonly used substance. Among students who were in grade 8 in 2021, 30-day alcohol use rose by 87% by the time they reached 10th grade in 2023. For 10th-graders in 2021, rates increased by 84% by the time they reached 12th grade in 2023.

The parental role in alcohol abuse may be shifting as well; 25% of all surveyed students that reported using alcohol in the previous year got it from home with parental permission.

Meanwhile, from 2021 to 2025, 30-day cannabis use almost doubled across all surveyed grades. This surge is strongly linked to increasingly permissive attitudes among parents and shifting social norms around cannabis, highlighting the crucial role adults play in shaping youth behavior.

Similar to the alcohol findings, 13% of all surveyed students that reported using cannabis in the previous year got it from home with parental permission.

There were some positive trends in tobacco use. Encouragingly, e-cigarette use among 12th-graders dropped from 29% to 13% from 2021 to 2025, and cigarette use fell from 7.3% to 3.7%. Meanwhile, after a peak in 2021, reported depressive symptoms among youth declined in both 2023 and 2025, which SBCHC attributes to more robust school-based mental health supports and youth-centered prevention efforts.

 

Community-driven Solutions

The SBCHC works with youth, schools, parents, and regional organizations to design and implement coordinated prevention strategies rooted in local data and lived experience. Efforts are focused on reducing risk factors — such as youth isolation and low perception of harm — and building up protective factors like strong peer networks, accurate information, and consistent adult engagement.

Current strategies include Youth Education for Action, a youth-led approach that includes the Peer Health Educator Program and Restorative Prevention Fellowship, providing students in both Southern Berkshire and Berkshire Hills regional school districts with tools to lead prevention efforts in their schools.

Parents and caregivers are also being equipped with tools to shift community norms. SBCHC’s Kitchen Table Talks peer model creates space for candid conversations and encourages adult community members to challenge permissive attitudes toward youth substance use.

The SBCHC recently offered a free Kitchen Table Talks facilitator training on Sept. 10 at Great Barrington Family Resource Center, and on Saturday, Oct. 18, it will offer an Invitation to Change training from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Berkshire South Regional Community Center. These evidence-based workshops are designed to help parents and caregivers respond constructively to a young person’s substance use, reduce conflict, and foster positive change.

“Our strength is in collaboration,” Rodriguez said. “Parents, educators, neighbors — every caring adult in this community has a role to play in prevention. This is not just a school issue or a family issue — it’s a community-wide call to action.”

Railroad Street Youth Project is dedicated to empowering young people in Berkshire County by providing them with the tools, support, and opportunities they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives. RSYP’s programs focus on youth development, education, workforce training, and substance use prevention.

Architecture

Community Appeal

Ryan Voiland says Red Fire Farm cannot remain financially sustainable without a new barn and farm store.

Ryan Voiland says Red Fire Farm cannot remain financially sustainable without a new barn and farm store.

 

Red Fire Farm, a cornerstone of local organic farming and sustainable food production in Western Mass. and across the state, announced last month that construction has begun on its new barn and that a GoFundMe has been launched to raise funds and galvanize community support.

After the loss of its historic 100-year-old barn to a fire in February 2024, Red Fired Farm was left without the space to sell or distribute food to thousands of customers. Over the past 19 months, generous donations and help from local supporters have allowed Red Fire Farm to stay open and maintain its farm store in a temporary location, ensuring continued access to fresh produce for customers.

Last month, the farm announced the construction of a new barn on the farm’s existing property at 34 Carver St. in Granby, MA, situated on 25 acres of farmland. The farm has hired a general contractor, secured plan approvals, and poured the foundation for the new building. However, the total cost of construction is estimated to be $1.2 million. With funding from a state grant, the small amount of insurance, and the farm’s own investment, there remains a shortfall of more than $400,00 due to increased building costs. The farm hopes to raise $200,000 of that total via donations as, without this new barn and farm store, Red Fire Farm cannot remain financially sustainable.

“We are launching a community barn raiser to help us make this barn a reality,” farm co-owner Ryan Voiland said. “It will be the heartbeat for the future of the farm, enabling the farm to continue serving the community and feeding thousands of people throughout the state.”

“We are launching a community barn raiser to help us make this barn a reality. It will be the heartbeat for the future of the farm, enabling the farm to continue serving the community and feeding thousands of people throughout the state.”

Just over $58,000 had been raised at press time. Gifts of all sizes are welcomed. Supporters of the campaign can donate at www.gofundme.com/f/help-build-the-barn-the-new-heart-of-red-fire-farm.

“Despite the immense financial challenges, we are committed to building the barn because we know that this farm is vital to our community,” co-owner Sarah Voiland said. “We are a living example of what it takes to feed people locally and regionally, and we continue to farm against the odds of climate change and a broken food system that benefits large, corporate farms thousands of miles away. Our mission is to provide the most nutritious food to everyone, regardless of income, while supporting over 80 local jobs.”

Red Fire Farm is the second-largest CSA (community-supported agriculture) farm in Western Mass. and among the 10 largest CSA farms in the state. Through CSA pickups, farmers markets and the Granby store, food relief, and local wholesale, the farm serves more than 7,000 people with fresh produce weekly in locations from Western Mass. to Worcester to the Boston area.

The Voilands say the farm avoids harmful chemicals and genetically engineered seeds, instead prioritizing soil health and long-term environmental sustainability. Each year, the farm donates tens of thousands of pounds of produce to food banks, pantries, and soup kitchens.

“Thanks to Red Fire Farm I have fed my family healthy, local food, as have my neighbors and friends throughout the state,” said Andrea Wong, a CSA farm share member. “I am excited that we have a chance to be part of this barn building to create the future for the farm and our own food supply.”

Daily News

Cristina Tatlock and Tiffany Lyman

EAST LONGMEADOW — Command Wealth Management announced the addition of two new professionals to its growing team: Tiffany Lyman as Client Relations manager and Cristina Tatlock as Client Experience and Marketing specialist. These appointments highlight the firm’s continued commitment to providing exceptional service and building meaningful client relationships.

Lyman brings more than 20 years of client service experience to her new role, including the past four years dedicated to financial services. A UMass graduate with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality and tourism management, she is known for her ability to create strong connections and deliver personalized support. Her combined background in hospitality and finance equips her to anticipate client needs and provide a seamless, thoughtful experience.

“I am excited to bring my experience in client service to Command Wealth Management and to build lasting relationships with the firm’s clients,” Lyman said.

Tatlock joins Command Wealth Management following a 21-year career as a science educator. She holds both bachelor’s and a master’s degrees in education with a focus in general science. Her communication skills, attention to detail, and genuine care for others make her a natural fit for her role supporting client experience and marketing initiatives. Her transition into wealth management reflects her desire to continue making a difference through the lens of financial well-being.

“Supporting others has always been my passion, and I look forward to helping clients feel cared for at every step of their journey,” Tatlock said.

Keith Tatlock, founder of Command Wealth Management, added that “we are thrilled to welcome Tiffany and Cristina to the Command Wealth Management team. Their experience, values, and dedication to client care align perfectly with our mission. We are confident they will strengthen the services we provide and enhance every client’s experience.”

Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Community College (GCC) has been selected by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education to join the new Education to Workforce Marketplace, a statewide partnership with ReUp Education aimed at helping adults who have some college credit but no credential return to finish their education.

“Many people start college, and then life takes a left turn,” GCC President Michelle Schutt said. “This partnership will help us reach those students, welcome them back, and provide the flexible support they need to succeed. It also reflects GCC’s deep commitment to lifelong learning and workforce development.”

Across Massachusetts, roughly 17% of adults aged 25 to 65 have some college experience but no degree. Nationally, more than 43 million Americans are in that category, and GCC is among those leading the charge to help those learners obtain their credentials.

ReUp Education, a national leader in adult learner support, uses data-driven outreach and personalized coaching to connect former students with programs that match their goals and life circumstances.

As part of the Education to Workforce Marketplace, GCC will have access to ReUp’s outreach tools and analytics that connect students with support, including GCC’s personalized coaching in financial aid, peer mentoring and other student assistance services.

With help from the state and ReUp, GCC will also collect evaluation data to measure outcomes, learn from results, and advocate for future investment in approaches that support adult learners.

“We are thrilled to be selected participants in this initiative,” said Shanni Smith-Arsenault, GCC’s vice president for Enrollment Management and Student Success. “For many in our region, this program translates to a clear path to college completion without having to start over from scratch.”

Daily News

CHICOPEE — Beaulieu Home Improvement, a family-owned business based in Chicopee, announced the winner of its second annual Veterans Project: Home Renovations for Heroes. This community initiative provides essential home renovations — at no cost — to local veterans in recognition of their service and sacrifice.

This year’s recipient, Timothy Tracy, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran from Springfield, will receive a brand-new roof replacement courtesy of the Beaulieu Home Improvement team. The installation is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 28 at 77 Partridge Dr. in Springfield, MA (weather permitting) and will be completed in one day by Beaulieu’s skilled craftsmen.

Tracy was nominated by his daughter, Lindsey, who shared in her letter: “I am honored to nominate my father, a proud United States Marine Corps veteran, for this opportunity. Straight out of high school, he answered the call to serve. Although he left military service just before I was born to be present for his growing family, he never stopped living by the values instilled in him during his time in uniform.”

She went on to describe her father as someone who has “worked hard and sacrificed much to support those he loves,” adding that, even when facing challenges, “he always looks for ways to give back — paying it forward whenever he’s able.”

The Veterans Project was created by the Beaulieu family to give back to those who have served this country. Fully self-funded by the company, the program provides up to $10,000 worth of exterior home improvements for deserving veterans across Western Mass. and Northern Conn., helping improve not only their homes, but their peace of mind.

“Our team created the Veterans Project to give back to the people who have given so much for our country,” said Al and Fran Beaulieu, brothers and co-owners of Beaulieu Home Improvement. “It’s our way of honoring their service and ensuring that they and their families have safe, comfortable homes.”

Daily News

CHICOPEE — The board of directors of Sunshine Village announced the upcoming retirement of Gina Kos, the organization’s longtime president and CEO, after more than three decades of leadership. Kos will step down at the end of April 2026, marking the conclusion of an era of growth, innovation, and service to individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Western Mass.

Kos joined Sunshine Village in 1991 as director of Marketing and Development and, after being appointed president and CEO in 1997, guided the organization through a period of transformation. Under her leadership, Sunshine Village grew from a $6 million agency to a $17 million, nationally accredited nonprofit.

Amid the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, she successfully led the organization through a safe closure and phased reopening, rebuilding services and programs to meet the evolving needs of clients and families. Today, she leaves behind a financially strong, programmatically vibrant Sunshine Village, widely recognized as both a provider of choice for families and an employer of choice for staff.

“On behalf of the board of directors and the entire Sunshine Village family, I want to express our deepest thanks to Gina for her years of exceptional leadership and unwavering devotion to our mission,” said Peter Benton, chairman of the Sunshine Village board of directors. “Through her vision and heart, she built more than financial and operational strength — she nurtured a culture of excellence, compassion, and belonging. Sunshine Village shines brighter today because of her incredible legacy.”

In addition to her work at Sunshine Village, Kos has been deeply committed to strengthening the broader community. She has served in leadership roles on numerous boards and civic organizations, including MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board, Human Service Forum, Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, the Westfield State University board of trustees, and the Elms College board of trustees. Her extensive volunteer work and community leadership have earned her multiple honors, including recognition as one of BusinessWest’s inaugural Women of Impact in 2018, a Paul Harris honor from the Chicopee Rotary Club, and the St. Joseph Medal – Distinguished Alumni Award from Cathedral High School.

“Serving Sunshine Village has been one of the greatest privileges of my life,” Kos said. “I have been endlessly inspired by the resilience and achievements of the individuals we support, the dedication of our incredible staff, and the unwavering generosity of our partners and community. While it is bittersweet to close this chapter, I leave with full confidence that Sunshine Village will continue to shine and create bright futures for many years to come.”

The board of directors has initiated a comprehensive search for the next president and CEO and is committed to ensuring a smooth leadership transition. It has engaged the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast to assist with the executive search, which will begin in the next few weeks.

“While we will deeply miss Gina’s presence and leadership, her legacy of excellence, innovation, and compassion will live on in every program, partnership, and person touched by Sunshine Village,” Benton said.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Amy Royal, founder and CEO of the Royal Law Firm, announced that she is selling the firm to Patrick Parker, owner and managing partner of Spruce Law. Going forward, the combined firm will be known as Royal Parker Spruce.

“In 2008, when Amy made the decision to leave the security of a well-established boutique management-side labor and employment law firm to form Royal, she did so with this specific objective: to promote diversity and inclusion in the legal profession,” the Royal Law Firm explained in a statement. “Amy firmly believed that with a team comprised of diverse backgrounds, to provide greater, more comprehensive, and well-rounded counsel for our corporate clients. Over the last 17 years, we have continually upheld that mission, which is proved by the composite of our workforce.”

Spruce Law is an Andover-based employment law firm. Parker is licensed in Massachusetts, New York, and Connecticut. He has extensive legal experience, having clerked for both state appellate and federal courts, practiced at the global law firm Clifford Chance, and served in-house at Merrill Lynch and UBS. He has a law degree from Northeastern University School of Law and an MBA from MIT’s Sloan School of Management.

“With Patrick’s combination of legal expertise and business perspective, he is uniquely positioned to carry the firm forward. He will be taking the helm and leading us into the future. The Royal Law Firm will now combine with Spruce Law, creating a stronger platform to serve our clients,” the Royal Law Firm stated. “Together, we will offer expanded resources, deeper bench strength, and a continued focus on delivering practical, business-oriented labor and employment law counsel our clients can rely on.”

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Entrepreneurs, small business owners, and marketing professionals across the Pioneer Valley are invited to ignite their digital presence at the upcoming Social Media Bootcamp, a dynamic, hands-on workshop designed to transform how businesses engage online.

Hosted by the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) at UMass Springfield, this in-person event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 2 to 7 p.m. at 1500 Main St., Tower Square, Springfield.

With the theme “Content Is Fire. Social Media Is Gasoline,” the bootcamp promises an immersive experience where p, Srticipants will build a one-page marketing plan tailored to their business; master branding, SEO, and email marketing strategies; learn how to turn likes into leads; discover how to integrate AI tools into their marketing efforts; and network with entrepreneurs and leaders from across the Valley.

General admission is $90, with a partner rate of $70 available through promotional codes provided by MSBDC, local chambers of commerce and community development corporations, Common Capital, and the Women Business Owners Alliance. Attendees who register by Friday, Oct. 10 will receive a boxed dinner included in their ticket price.

This bootcamp is ideal for anyone looking to sharpen their digital marketing skills, explore the power of AI in business, and connect with a vibrant community of innovators. For more information and to register, visit wboa.org/bootcamp.

Daily News

AGAWAM — The West of the River Chamber of Commerce announced the return of Food Fest West, a community culinary celebration, on Thursday, Nov. 13 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Crestview Country Club in Agawam.

This event showcases the region’s eateries, offering guests the opportunity to sample a wide variety of delicious dishes and vote for their favorite restaurant of the night. From savory bites to sweet treats, attendees will experience the best of Western Mass. cuisine, all under one roof.

In addition to food, guests will enjoy a fun-filled evening featuring a silent auction, raffles, photo booth, and cash bar. It’s an ideal way to connect with friends, colleagues, and community members while supporting local businesses and restaurants.

“Food Fest West is one of our most exciting community events of the year,” said Robin Wozniak, executive director of the West of the River Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a great opportunity to bring people together, celebrate our local dining scene, and have a great time doing it.”

Tickets are available through the West of the River Chamber of Commerce. For tickets, restaurant participation, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

Daily News

Christopher Marsh

WESTFIELD — Advantage Truck Group (ATG), the largest Daimler Truck North America dealer network in New England, whose locations include a full-service dealership on Southampton Road in Westfield, announced three key promotions in its senior leadership team, promoting Christopher Marsh to executive vice president of Network Truck Sales, Christopher Pentedemos to executive vice president of Network Service Operations, and Michael Ramian to executive vice president of Parts Operations.

Christopher Pentedemos

“These promotions reflect our commitment to fostering leadership within our dedicated team, and I am proud to recognize Chris Marsh, Chris Pentedemos, and Mike Ramian for the contributions they have made to ATG’s growth and success,” ATG President and CEO Kevin Holmes said. “Their expertise has driven improvements that deliver an exceptional experience for both our customers and team members, and their leadership will continue to help shape ATG’s future.”

Michael Ramian

Marsh will lead strategy and management of sales operations across ATG’s eight locations. He has nearly 15 years of experience in truck sales, joining ATG (formerly Tri State Truck Center) in 2011 as sales account executive and progressing to Truck Sales manager and vice president of Network Truck Sales. During this time, he increased ATG’s business with municipalities, growing existing accounts, and expanding its customer base. In 2017, Marsh completed the American Truck Dealers Academy, an intensive leadership and business training program for current and future commercial truck dealership leaders. He currently serves on the Daimler Truck Financial Dealer Council.

Pentedemos is responsible for the overall management, operational efficiency, and customer experience at each service department across the ATG network. He joined ATG (formerly Tri State Truck Center) in 2005 as a bus parts expert and was an Employee of the Year Award recipient. He was promoted to Outside Parts Sales manager, where he was instrumental in building the Thomas Built Bus business, and later progressed to service manager, service director, and vice president of Network Operations. Pentedemos also championed the creation of an onsite training facility at ATG Shrewsbury to further the education and professional development of the organization’s diesel technicians.

Ramian will oversee all aspects of ATG’s parts operations. In his previous role as Parts director, he led parts sales and support for the ATG dealer network, where he grew ATG’s Parts department and its onsite delivery service, establishing the company as the top parts provider in New England. He started his career with ATG (formerly Tri State Truck Center) in 2006 as a Parts counter associate and progressed to assistant Parts manager, Parts manager, and Parts director. Ramian is a recipient of the 2011 ATG Employee of the Year Award and also the 2022 Patriot Award from the Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve, an organization affiliated with the U.S. Department of Defense.

Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Hogan Technology, a managed technology service provider, announced the launch of its new managed data backup services with flexible solutions that prioritize cloud-based storage while also offering the option for on-site replication, catering to the varying needs of small to mid-sized businesses (SMBs). This managed data backup solution is optimized for peak performance, reliability, and efficiency, which are key to ensuring optimal backup and recovery.

As the value of sensitive client data continues to increase, organizations are finding new ways to secure their clients’ information in the most reliable way possible. While many businesses operate with on-site backup appliances, a hybrid approach combining cloud and on-site storage can help mitigate risks associated with obsolescence and inefficiency. Hogan Technology’s cloud-first approach eliminates the need for on-site backup devices altogether, allowing SMBs to back up their data and receive patches, maintenance, and upgrades.

“Organizations can optimize their backup investments by leveraging managed data backup services, which ensure data security and immediate recoverability while offering the flexibility of cloud-first and on-site replication options,” said Sean Hogan, president of Hogan Technology.

By leveraging Hogan Technology’s data backup services, customers can efficiently manage server, workstation, and Microsoft 365 backups and recoveries for multiple locations or customers from a single web-based dashboard. Performing cloud-first data backups translates to significant cost and time savings while ensuring customers’ data remains accessible and protected.

One of the biggest drawbacks of data backup is when the process is inefficiently managed. For example, if the customer’s managed services provider or their IT department decides to perform a data backup during work hours, it could strain network resources or interrupt bandwidth for other employees on the network.

Hogan explained that the best data backup systems utilize deduplication and incremental backup capabilities to move up to 60 times less data than conventional image backup products, enabling organizations to back up their data more frequently without causing network issues. This is important because most companies are so competitive that they cannot afford to reduce the productivity of all other employees due to inefficient IT practices. This solution minimizes bandwidth usage, making daily backups small, lightweight, and cost-effective.

“Every single IT system that an organization implements needs to take cybersecurity into consideration,” he said. “Cyber criminals have unprecedented access to artificial intelligence-based cybercrime software, and it’s vital that any data backup solution takes security very seriously.”

For businesses that want to create an additional layer of security, he added, it’s important that files are encrypted using a 256-bit encryption to secure files both in transit and at rest to ensure data privacy, which is exactly how Hogan Technology’s new managed data backup solution is configured. This gives management the ability to restrict certain data so that only authorized personnel can access encrypted data with their private key. Additionally, the cloud-first managed data backup solution uses ISO-certified data centers located worldwide, with region-specific certifications to maintain strict security and compliance standards.

Daily News

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union is running a winter coat and cold-weather clothing drive in its Hadley, Northampton, and Springfield branches throughout October. Donations from this annual drive will be distributed in partnership with the Amherst Survival Center and Gray House in Springfield.

“This winter, many of our neighbors are worried about keeping up with the rising costs of groceries, heating bills, and rent, all while trying to make the holidays special for their families,” said Miranda Groux, resource coordinator at Amherst Survival Center. “The winter coat drive makes sure that having a reliable winter coat is one less worry. Times are especially tight, and we appreciate the opportunity to partner with UMassFive to provide free winter coats for anybody who needs one.”

UMassFive is accepting clean, new, or gently used coats, gloves, scarves, hats, sweaters, snow gear, and boots. Donations should be bagged and dropped off during business hours at the branches located at 200 Westgate Center Dr., Hadley; 25 King St., Northampton; and 233 Carew St. (Mercy Medical Center Rehabilitation Building), Room 110, Springfield.

While the Amherst Survival Center does accept donations directly, limited storage space makes drop-offs at participating UMassFive branches preferred.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society will partner with Balise Subaru of Hadley to offer discounted adoption fees for select dogs and cats at Dakin during the month of October as part of Subaru Loves Pets, a national Subaru initiative to support the lives of as many shelter animals as possible.

“We’re proud to partner with Dakin Humane Society to support their incredible work finding loving homes for animals in need,” said Joe Clark, general manager of Balise Subaru of Hadley. “Our showroom has always welcomed pet lovers, and this partnership is a meaningful way for us to give back and make a real difference. Subaru Loves Pets is one of our favorite initiatives because it connects our team, our customers, and the community through a shared love for animals.”

Dakin Humane Society organized the pet event in collaboration with Balise Subaru of Hadley to raise awareness of local pets in need. During October, Balise Subaru of Hadley and more than 630 Subaru retailers nationwide worked with the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals to provide grants to local partner shelters, resulting in more than $3 million in donations.

Subaru has donated more than $70 million since 2008 to national and local organizations that help in the adoption, rescue, transport, and health of more than 700,000 animals and pets.

In addition to hosting the pet adoption event, Balise Subaru of Hadley helped celebrate the seventh annual National Make a Dog’s Day by encouraging the local community to do something special for the dogs in their lives, adopt a shelter dog, or volunteer at an animal shelter and share the experience on social media using the hashtag #MakeADogsDay.

Daily News

HADLEY — Just two weeks ago, the only improv comedy theater in Western Mass., Happier Valley Comedy (HVC) in Hadley, was celebrating its 10th anniversary. Now, there is even more to celebrate as it prepares for the grand opening of its new Dream Theater on Saturday, Oct. 25 at 7 p.m.

“When we first brought the idea of expanding the theater to our board in early 2023, part of us wondered if our dreams were too big for our little theater to achieve,” said Pam Victor, HVC founder and head of happiness. “But we should have known our remarkable community’s dreams were just as big as ours.”

The new theater features a fully accessible stage, expanded installed theater seating, and a more professional improv stage. The new expansion is connected to Happier Valley Comedy’s existing space at 1 Mill Valley Road in Hadley. HVC worked with general contractors at Integrity Development and Construction of Amherst and architect Tom Douglas of Thomas Douglas Architects of Northampton.

The grand opening event will feature performances from HVC mainstage casts with musical improv, theatrical longform improv, and true storytelling. After the show, attendees are invited to join in the after-party for snacks, drinks, and community celebration.

Proceeds from ticket sales will contribute to the sustainable continuation of the Equity Fund, which supports BIPOC participation in HVC programming and phase two of the Dream Theater project, including more accessible seating for all bodies, enhanced theatrical lighting and audio systems for a supported visual and auditory experience, and a lobby space to allow more connection-rich opportunities to bolster community.

“In 2015, Happier Valley Comedy was born of a dream to make a living doing what I love,” Victor said. “The opening of our expanded Dream Theater in 2025 means even more people can share in that dream. And now that the hard work of building it is done, it’s time to get on that stage and play.”

Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — This October, Storrowton Village Museum invites visitors to step into the past and get into the Halloween spirit with its popular Ghost Tours, held on Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. Tickets cost $30 per person and are available online at storrowtonvillage.com.

The self-guided evening tour takes visitors through the village’s historic buildings, featuring a video on its paranormal past and stories of how each structure came to be here. Thursday, Oct. 9 is Family Night, including a lantern-making activity for guests to bring along on their tour.

From jiggling doorknobs and phantom footsteps to unexplained taps on the shoulder, paranormal activity has been reported in Storrowton Village for generations. During the Ghost Tours, the village’s storied past is explored through a supernatural lens. Each building, relocated to Storrowton between 1927 and 1930 from towns across Massachusetts and New Hampshire, was saved from demolition and preserved to share its history. The lives of their original families linger in these walls, joined by nearly a century of new stories from the millions who have since passed through. Now, guests can uncover the paranormal secrets hidden within this recreated 19th-century New England village.

Ghost Tours last approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours and are recommended for ages 12 and up. All ages are welcome on Oct. 9, when the tour content will be tailored for families. Photography is permitted in select areas, but video recording is not allowed. Guests should check in at the Meeting House, where the tour begins. Tickets will be available at the door only if the event is not sold out. The tours, which run rain or shine, are not wheelchair-accessible and include stairs and uneven surfaces.

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) will conclude its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month with “Our Stories, Our Voices, Our Lens,” a conversation with local Latinx ‘artivists,’ talking about how art contributes to the preservation and celebration of history and culture.

The panel discussion will run on Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on the second floor of the HCC Campus Center.

The discussion, moderated by Naoimi Robles, an HCC alum and student success counselor for El Centro, a bilingual HCC student support program, will include three panelists:

• Maria Salgado-Cartagena, director of Community Engagement at Mount Holyoke College. Known as the ‘people’s historian of Holyoke,’ she is working to ensure the visibility of Puerto Ricans in the city’s vibrant past and present. A former resident of Holyoke, she has been involved in community organizing since high school and has worked in the nonprofit sector of Holyoke for more than 25 years;

• Michelle Falcón Fontánez, an award-winning storyteller working in photography, film, theater, and installation art. She is currently working on a three-part mini-series that unpacks the psychological and environmental impacts on Puerto Ricans in South Holyoke during a series of fires in the 1970s; and

• Eartha Mejia, a Latiné transfem, organizer, cultural worker, healer, writer, and artivist from Pawtucket/Pentucket lands in Lawrence. Currently a student at Mount Holyoke College, Mejia hopes one day to become a clinical social worker to serve the queer BIPOC community. They seek to create spaces where collective healing and liberation meet by hosting healing circles, writing workshops, resistance book clubs, and more.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated nationally each year from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 to recognize the cultural and historical influences of Hispanic Americans. On the HCC campus, it is called Latinx Heritage Month.

Picture This

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

 

Supporting Students

On Sept. 24, Holyoke Community College (HCC) celebrated the grand reopening of its Itsy Bitsy Child Watch Center in a newly renovated and expanded space on the second floor of the Frost Building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception. Itsy Bitsy Child Watch is a free drop-in service for student parents who need short-term child care while they attend classes, study, or meet with tutors and advisers. 

Pictured: HCC President George Timmons, state Sen. John Velis, Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw, and others get ready to cut the ribbon.

Pictured: HCC President George Timmons, state Sen. John Velis, Early Education and Care Commissioner Amy Kershaw, and others get ready to cut the ribbon.

 

Soccer Without Borders

On Sept. 4, the Rotary Club of Springfield hosted Mohammed Abdulahi and Tajaldin Jalil from Jewish Family Services of Western Massachusetts, who provided an update on their Soccer Without Borders program, for which they used a $2,000 grant from the Rotary to purchase T-shirts and other equipment. Soccer Without Borders helps participants improve their English, build leadership skills, develop healthy lifestyles, and make social connections with their peers. 

Pictured, from left: Carla Alves, Rotary treasurer; Abdulahi; Michael Kelley, Rotary president; Samalid Hogan, Rotary vice president and membership chair; and Jalil.

Pictured, from left: Carla Alves, Rotary treasurer; Abdulahi; Michael Kelley, Rotary president; Samalid Hogan, Rotary vice president and membership chair; and Jalil.

 

Best Fare at the Fair

Each year, the Big E’s food vendors compete in the Big Eats awards, sponsored by Cutco Cutlery. This year’s competition was held on Sept. 16. The award for Best Sweet Treat went to the spicy PB&J vegan ice cream sundae from Soulfully Vegan, owned by Calvin and Allison Vaughn . The award for Best Savory Snack was awarded to the deep-fried enchilada from Deep Fried Taco, owned by James and Andrea Staub.  Judges included West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, Madeline LeBlanc of @HelloFoodReviews, Daymon Patterson of the Netflix show Fresh, Fried and Crispy, and Christina Allingham of @BiteofNewEngland.

The award for Best Sweet Treat went to the spicy PB&J vegan ice cream sundae from Soulfully Vegan, owned by Calvin and Allison Vaughn

The award for Best Sweet Treat went to the spicy PB&J vegan ice cream sundae from Soulfully Vegan, owned by Calvin and Allison Vaughn

 

The award for Best Savory Snack was awarded to the deep-fried enchilada from Deep Fried Taco, owned by James and Andrea Staub

The award for Best Savory Snack was awarded to the deep-fried enchilada from Deep Fried Taco, owned by James and Andrea Staub

Agenda

Up Next Summit

Oct. 16: The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) announced the launch of the Up Next Summit, a first-time leadership event designed to empower, inspire, and connect the region’s rising professionals. This event will take place at MGM Springfield, and tickets are now on sale. Visit www.springfieldyps.com/upnext to reserve a spot. Designed to bring together emerging leaders for a day of workshops, keynote speakers, and high-impact conversations, Up Next will directly address the challenges faced by rising professionals and the leaders who champion their development. This one-day event will bring together professionals from across the region for an energizing mix of expert-led micro workshops, networking, and big-picture conversations with topics ranging from community impact to personal development. In addition, Up Next will feature dynamic keynote presentations from Jill Monson, founder of POP!more Confidence Coaching, and Michelle Wirth, founder of Feel Good Shop Local. Both speakers are known for their powerful insights on leadership, purpose-driven work, and community engagement.

 

Cancer Connection Harvest Dinner

Oct. 16: Cancer Connection’s annual Harvest Dinner will take place at Union Station in Northampton. The Harvest Dinner is one of Cancer Connection’s most important fundraisers, and bankESB’s support will help underwrite the costs of the event and allow the organization to raise more funds for its programs. This festive evening brings the Cancer Connection community together and raises critical funds to bring support groups, integrative therapies, and educational programs to more cancer patients and their caregivers. The event will include a cocktail hour, farm-to-table dinner, silent auction, and a program of speakers. Cancer Connection, the only independent cancer support center in the area, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 2000, Cancer Connection’s mission is to provide a haven where people with cancer and their loved ones can learn how to navigate the complicated cancer journey through one-to-one guidance, education, peer support, integrative therapies, and creative programs. Cancer Connection is the only cancer support center in Hampshire and Franklin Counties and draws additional participants from Hampden County and beyond. For more information on sponsorships and tickets for the Harvest Dinner, visit www.cancer-connection.org/special-events.

 

Healthcare Heroes Gala

Oct. 22: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News will celebrate this year’s eight Healthcare Heroes starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in the Sep. 15 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes the Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit at Mercy Medical Center; Areliz Barbosa, clinical assistant professor and senior project coordinator at Bay Path University; Andrea Bertheaud, clinical assistant professor at Elms College; Chrissy Humason, Nursing supervisor and Stroke coordinator at Baystate Noble Hospital; Linda Koh, assistant professor at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing at UMass Amherst; Cindy Leonard, Infusion manager at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center; Dr. Thomas Lincoln, physician and associate professor of Medicine at Baystate Health; and Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos, director of the Holyoke Medical Center Weight Management Program. Tickets cost $95, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com/healthcareheroes. Presenting sponsors include Baystate Health/Health New England and Elms College. Partner sponsors include Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center and Holyoke Medical Center.

 

Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time Fundraiser

Oct. 22: Berkshire Family & Individual Resources (BFAIR) invites the community to an evening of fine wine, food, and music at its upcoming fundraiser, Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Balderdash Cellars, 81 State Road, Richmond. The event, sponsored by Sourcepass, will feature wines paired with appetizers, charcuterie, and desserts by Pizza Trails. It will also feature a lively program including a silent auction, raffles, and live music performed by Brian Benlien. The evening’s proceeds will support BFAIR’s mission of providing quality, individualized services to people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injury. Tickets cost $100 per person and must be reserved by Oct. 8 at bit.ly/452LPRn.

 

EANE Fall Conference Events

Oct. 23: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced a conference, “Safety Leadership for Your Workplace,” taking place at the Marriott in Springfield. Attendees will experience a full day of presentations, including Dick Flynt from the National Safety Council, OSHA, certified safety professional Dan Williams, and the team from Protective Advanced Safety Services. Qualified Massachusetts employers can apply for reimbursement for conference fees using the MA Express Program. To learn more or register for these events, visit www.eane.org or email Allison Ebner at [email protected].

 

bankESB Shred Day

Oct. 25: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to a free shred day at its 241 Northampton St., Easthampton branch. No appointment is necessary. The events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. or until the truck is full. Residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements, bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and having them shredded them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

Springfield Chamber Players Opening Night Concert

Oct. 26: The Springfield Chamber Players (SCP) will launch their 2025-26 season at 52 Sumner at 3 p.m. Alexander Svensen, assistant principal bass of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, will perform works by Bach, Bartók, Dragonetti, and more. He will be joined by Romina Kostare, violinist with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and Patrick Berry, radio and TV personality, on select pieces. This will be the second season for the Springfield Chamber Players at 52 Sumner and will feature more musicians of the SCP in this five-concert series. Another series at the Westfield Athenaeum, as well as a partnership with the Springfield Youth Orchestras, are planned for this season.

 

Halloween Mall-O-Ween

Oct. 30: Families and children of all ages are invited to Holyoke Mall’s annual Halloween Mall-O-Ween trick-or-treating event from 4 to 6 p.m. Participating mall retailers will be handing out candy throughout the center, making it an ideal destination for little ghouls and goblins to safely enjoy trick-or-treating. Attendees can also participate in a Social Media Costume Contest. Simply snap a photo while trick-or-treating at the mall, post it on Facebook and/or Instagram, follow and tag the mall @HolyokeMall, and use the hashtag #HolyokeMallHalloween2025. Contestants must be at least 18 years old. Winners will be announced on Nov. 3 and awarded prizes.

 

Friendsgiving Fundraiser

Nov. 3: The Iron Horse Music Hall will turn up the volume on community with the Friendship Band Friendsgiving Fundraiser, a music-fueled party with a purpose. Two local favorites, the Friendship Band and Soul Magnets, will take the stage to raise support for the performing arts at Whole Children and Milestones, programs of ServiceNet, where people with disabilities take center stage. The Friendship Band unites musicians with and without disabilities in a shared celebration of music’s power to connect. Over the past 10 years, it has built a loyal following with its mix of originals and covers, memorable collaborations with Yo La Tengo, and standout sets at Transformance at Look Park. Joining them is Valley funk powerhouse Soul Magnets. With a horn-heavy, nine-piece lineup and a setlist that slides from funk classics to neo-soul originals, the band has fired up crowds from the Green River Festival to the Drake and Millpond Live. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $30, including fees. Both seated and standing options are available (first come, first served). Accessible seating is available at (413) 200-0425 or [email protected]. Visit ironhorse.org to purchase tickets.

 

Next Gen Summit

Nov. 5: Six-Point Strategy announced the launch of its first Next Gen Summit, a one-day retreat designed for emerging leaders in family businesses. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Venture Way in Hadley. The summit is built around the unique challenges of succession and generational leadership. Next generation leaders have the difficult task of navigating the ‘in-between’ space, shaping the future of their companies while still carrying the weight of family legacy. Participants will gain tools, frameworks, and connections to help them lead with confidence and authenticity. The event will be facilitated by three leaders with deep expertise in family business, leadership, and strategy: Meghan Lynch, CEO of Six-Point Strategy; Ira Bryck, founder and longtime director of the UMass Amherst Family Business Center; and Joshua Hornick, director of the Hornick School for Coaching. Summit highlights include “Leadership Styles” (balancing authenticity with authority), “The Power of Being Different” (why differentiation matters more than excellence), “Family-ness in Business” (using family culture as a superpower), and “Peer Learning” (shared conversations on succession and influence). The program is designed to be intimate and highly interactive, ensuring every participant has a voice. Space is limited, and early bird registration is open through Oct. 3 at a discounted rate of $395. Standard tickets are $495. For more information or to register, visit sixpointstrategy.com/nextgensummit.

 

 

People on the Move
George Timmons

George Timmons

Holyoke Community College (HCC) President George Timmons was honored on Sept. 12 as one of 100 Men of Color during a black-tie gala at the Bushnell Theater in Hartford, Conn. The 100 Men of Color awards ceremony, sponsored by the Archer Foundation, recognizes the contributions of men of color in education, business, government, entertainment, and other industries, and the impact they have made on the lives of people in Connecticut and Western Mass. Timmons was chosen to speak on behalf of all 100 honorees as the 2025 class ‘valedictorian.’ Timmons, HCC’s president since July 2023, holds a bachelor’s degree in financial management from Norfolk State University, a master’s degree in higher education from Old Dominion University, and a PhD in higher education from Bowling Green State University. He is the first African-American man to serve as HCC president. A portion of the proceeds from the annual gala support mentorship programs and scholarships for young men of color who graduate from high school and plan to attend college.

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Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced that its board of directors has selected Michael Sugrue, current executive vice president, as the next president, effective Sept. 17. Following the retirement of current President and CEO James Kelly on May 31, 2026, Sugrue will assume the CEO title. Kelly’s 20-year tenure as president and CEO has driven significant growth in membership and assets, introduced innovative financial services, and strengthened community ties. Sugrue brings nearly 30 years of banking experience to his new role. Since joining PNCU in 2016 as executive vice president and chief lending officer, he has driven strategic growth and member engagement initiatives. His prior roles include positions in risk oversight, audit, compliance, community reinvestment, and as a financial institution examiner for regulatory authorities at both the state and federal levels. Sugrue holds an MBA from UMass Amherst and a graduate degree in executive banking from the ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking. His community involvement includes serving on the Holyoke Medical Center board, the Holyoke Saint Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, and the Ancient Order of Hibernians. Effective Sept. 17, PNCU also announced the promotion of Charlotte Hansen to executive vice president and chief financial officer (CFO). Hansen brings more than 30 years of financial services experience and has been with PNCU for more than seven years, most recently serving as senior vice president and CFO. She now oversees finance and accounting, financial services, and marketing, with responsibility for financial reporting, budgeting, investments, treasury, and asset liability management. Prior to joining PNCU, Hansen was CFO and senior vice president at Bankers’ Bank Northeast and began her career in public accounting with Whittlesey & Hadley, P.C., focusing on audit and tax services for financial institutions. A certified public accountant, she holds an associate degree in accounting from Manchester Community College and a bachelor of business administration degree in accounting from the University of Hartford. She also serves on several local boards. Kirk Burnham, promoted to executive vice president of Operations/Technology, has more than 30 years of experience in financial services. Since joining PNCU in 2013 as senior vice president of Operations, he has overseen daily operations, including security, facilities, vendor management, data processing, electronic delivery systems, and the contact center, while driving technology objectives and policies. Previously, he served as vice president of Operations and chief Technology officer. Burnham holds a bachelor of business administration degree in accounting and attended the Massachusetts Bankers Assoc. School for Financial Studies and the National School of Banking. He serves on local education boards and supports financial literacy programs. David Fernandes, promoted to senior vice president of Retail, and Sherri LaPlante, promoted to Human Resource director, further bolster PNCU’s leadership with their expertise in member services and workplace culture.

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Westfield Bank announced the promotion of Kelly Pignatare to first vice president, manager of Retail Banking and Business & Government Deposit Services. Pignatare has more than two decades of banking experience, in both retail and business capacities. In her new role, she aims to drive deposit and loan growth, as well as customer service excellence, across all Westfield Bank branch locations, as well as the bank’s Business & Government Deposit Services Department, responsible for providing deposit and cash management services to commercial and municipal customers. Pignatare has served in many roles at Westfield Bank, most recently as a vice president and regional manager. In 2023, she graduated from the New England School for Financial Studies, completing an intensive two-year program for banking professionals. She is also deeply involved with the community and serves as a board member for the Pathlight advisory board and the Pioneer Valley Conference for Women, where she was chosen as a panelist for the 2025 conference held earlier this year.

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Janice Ward

Janice Ward

Berkshire Bank, a division of Beacon Bank & Trust, announced the appointment of Janice Ward as senior vice president and head of Fiduciary Services to lead the bank’s fiduciary activities, including its trust business. Before rejoining the bank, Ward was first vice president and trust officer at Greenfield Savings Bank, where she was a member of the bank’s senior leadership team, overseeing all fiduciary activities. Ward’s other prior experience includes serving as senior fiduciary officer in Berkshire Bank’s Wealth Management department based out of Lenox, and chief wealth management officer at Citizens & Northern Bank in Wellsboro, Pa. Ward earned a law degree from Western New England University School of Law and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. She is co-founder and former president of the Estate Planning Council of the Berkshires.

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Thomas Osuch

Thomas Osuch

MountainOne announced the appointment of Thomas Osuch as vice president, commercial loan officer. Osuch joins MountainOne Bank with more than 18 years of experience in commercial banking. His primary focus will be to manage a growing loan portfolio, generate new business opportunities, and remain actively engaged in community and charitable organizations. Osuch is a board member of both the Weymouth Chamber of Commerce and the Hanover Chamber of Commerce. He is actively involved in Weymouth youth sports programs, currently serving as coach for Cal Ripken baseball, youth basketball, soccer, and flag football. He most recently served as vice president, commercial loan officer with Rockland Trust. A graduate of Trinity College with a degree in economics, he continued his education by earning an MBA from UMass Dartmouth.

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Jonathan Denmark

Jonathan Denmark

MountainOne announced that Jonathan Denmark, president and chief operating officer of MountainOne Insurance Agency and executive vice president of MountainOne Bank, has been named to Berkshire Magazine’s prestigious Berkshire 25 list. Now in its 12th year, the annual honor celebrates 25 individuals who have made a significant impact on the Berkshire region in Massachusetts. Denmark, president and COO of MountainOne Insurance and executive vice president of MountainOne Bank, has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and evolution. Under his leadership, MountainOne Insurance has expanded from four offices to nine in the Berkshires and Pioneer Valley. His strategic vision and commitment to community engagement have helped strengthen MountainOne’s presence and impact throughout the region. In addition to his leadership roles within MountainOne, Denmark serves as board chair of the Pittsfield Economic Development Authority; on the mayor’s economic development council, the finance committee of the Berkshire Innovation Center, and 1Berkshire; and as vice president of administration at Congregation Knesset Israel in Pittsfield. He also a member of the Housie Shakers, a band that performs at local venues and charitable events.

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Kristen Smidy

Kristen Smidy

The Healey-Driscoll administration announced that Gov. Maura Healey has appointed Kristen Smidy as the newest member of the Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Smidy is a former teacher, principal, and superintendent with nearly 20 years of experience as an educator in Massachusetts. She currently serves as associate director for Accreditation and School Improvement on the New England Assoc. of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) Commission on Public Schools. Smidy joined NEASC in the fall of 2025 after almost five years as superintendent for the Gateway Regional School District in Huntington. She previously served as principal of Hampshire Regional High School and began her career as a sixth- and seventh-grade social studies teacher at Duggan Middle School in Springfield. She has served on the legislative committee for Massachusetts School Superintendents, the Connecticut Valley Superintendent Roundtable executive board, and the Massachusetts Inclusive Higher Education task force. She is a graduate of UMass Amherst and Boston University.

•••••

The Springfield Thunderbirds announced a hire and several promotions to its business staff heading into the new season. Sophia Mackin has been hired as coordinator of Digital & Social Media, Frank Grimaldi has been promoted to director of Ticket Operations & Retention, and Steve Brousseau has been promoted to senior account executive. Mackin joins the Thunderbirds after serving as a Social & Digital Media intern with the team for the previous two seasons. She graduated from UMass Amherst in May. Grimaldi is an original staff member of the Thunderbirds front office, having been with the club since the team’s inception in 2016. He served as an account executive from 2016 to 2018 before transitioning to Ticket Operations & Retention before the 2018-19 season. He is an alumnus of Western New England University. Brousseau joined the Thunderbirds front office full-time during the 2021-22 season after spending two seasons as a game-day intern with the team. He has been recognized for his excellence, having been named a finalist for the Howdy Award this past April for outstanding customer service in the hospitality industry. He is an alumnus of Springfield College. In addition, the Thunderbirds have also appointed Andrew “Guam” McCormic as Retail Office coordinator and Ethan Vattaso as Gameday Operations assistant. McCormic served as Gameday Operations assistant last season before transitioning into his new role, where he will assist in gameday merchandise and retail sales. He is a 2025 graduate of Springfield College and will be entering his fourth season with the T-Birds organization. Vattaso, a current undergraduate at Springfield College, is entering his third season as part of the Thunderbirds’ gameday staff. He will manage the staff and oversee live entertainment elements throughout home game nights at the MassMutual Center this season.

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Donna Bishop

Donna Bishop

MountainOne Insurance Agency announced the promotion of Donna Bishop to senior vice president, Commercial Lines Operations manager. Bishop is recognized as a leading authority in commercial lines insurance and holds the prestigious certified risk manager designation. Her knowledge of insurance carriers, coverage solutions, and operational strategy has been instrumental in strengthening the agency’s commercial infrastructure. She has played a vital role in launching the small business unit and has led process improvements, including key workflow optimizations. Bishop’s leadership continues to shape the agency’s success through strategic carrier negotiations, regulatory oversight, and long-term planning.

•••••

Julianne Fruscio

Julianne Fruscio

Chikmedia, a boutique firm specializing in marketing, public relations, branding, and design, announced the addition of Julianne Fruscio to its growing creative team as a content producer. With more than a decade of expertise in marketing strategy, social media, and brand development, she brings a proven ability to craft impactful content that drives engagement, strengthens brand presence, and fuels growth. Fruscio is a seasoned marketing director, social media influencer, and expert in content creation, with extensive experience developing innovative campaigns for major brands, including her work with Amazon and Comfrt. She specializes in brand positioning, storytelling, and creative direction, consistently producing results-driven content that captivates audiences and boosts conversions. In addition to her corporate achievements, Fruscio has built a thriving body positivity community, showcasing her talent for fostering authentic engagement and inspiring audiences. Her strengths in trend analysis, content planning, and visual production ensure that the brands she works with achieve consistent growth and lasting impact. She holds a bachelor’s degree in integrated marketing communications from Ithaca College’s Roy H. Park School of Communications. Prior to joining Chikmedia, she served as director of Marketing, Retention, and Field Services at Dominion Dealer Solutions, as well as Business Development and Marketing specialist at Excelsior Integrated.

•••••

Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., a labor and employment law firm serving employers in the Greater Springfield and Worcester areas, announced that one of its partners, Timothy Murphy, has been recognized once again by his peers for inclusion in the Best Lawyers in America list for 2026. He is listed in three fields: employment law – management, labor law – management, and litigation – labor and employment. Focusing his practice on labor relations, union avoidance, collective bargaining and arbitration, employment litigation, and employment counseling, Murphy has been included in Best Lawyers in America every year since 2013 and was Lawyer of the Year in 2015, 2018, 2020, 2022, and 2025. Murphy is very active within the local community, sitting on boards of directors for several area organizations, such as the Human Service Forum and Community Legal Aid. He also is a member of the World Affairs Council.

•••••

Caroline Morrissey

Caroline Morrissey

West Springfield native Caroline Morrissey has been named the first executive director of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England (ICCWNE), bringing with her a wealth of global experience and a deep passion for Irish heritage. Morrissey, a Colby College alumna, earned her master’s degree in international administration with a policy focus from the University of Denver. She spent nearly a decade working in post-conflict zones across Africa, most recently serving with President Carter’s the Carter Center in Liberia, before returning to Western Mass. just before the pandemic. Since returning, she has been an active member of the ICCWNE’s events committee, where she founded the new book club — a now-thriving literary group that she continues to moderate monthly. In summer 2024, she took on a larger leadership role by joining the board of directors. The newly established executive director position is made possible in part through the support of the government of Ireland. Serving as the ICCWNE’s chief administrator, Morrissey will oversee daily operations, guide the implementation of the strategic plan, and expand cultural programming and community reach.

•••••

Zeno Temple

Zeno Temple

Zeno Temple recently joined the Royal Law Firm as a legal assistant. He manages attorney calendars and deadlines; assists with litigation management, including drafting pleadings, discovery, and motions; and helps organize federal and state case files, pretrial documents, and exhibits. Temple is completing his juris doctorate at Western New England University School of Law in the evening division. He has experience as a paralegal, supporting litigation in family law and civil matters, as well as externships in state and federal agencies where he assisted with legal research, drafting, and case management. Outside the office, he is active in community service and mentoring programs.

•••••

MountainOne Insurance Agency announced the promotion of Jennifer Smith to Senior Personal Lines account manager, a new, leadership-level role that recognizes team members who bring exceptional experience, knowledge, and client service to the agency. Smith delivers a thoughtful and client-focused approach to every interaction and has a reputation for explaining complex insurance details clearly and confidently, making her a trusted advisor to both clients and colleagues. She is also deeply committed to her community and actively supports the National Alliance on Mental Illness and mental health advocacy efforts.

•••••

Jon Berthiaume

Jon Berthiaume

Dr. Natasha McKay

Dr. Natasha McKay

Dr. Mark Keroack

Dr. Mark Keroack

The Springfield Museums elected new members to its board of trustees at its annual meeting of corporators, held Sept. 24. The newly elected trustees are Jon Berthiaume and Dr. Natasha McKay, with Dr. Mark Keroack named board chair. Kate Kane was also named to the trustees emeriti and two new corporators were elected as well, bringing the total number of Springfield Museums corporators to 325. Former CEO of Baystate Health, Keroack has served on several local boards focused on improving the quality of life in Springfield and across Western Mass., as well as several state and national boards. During his time at Baystate Health, he expanded the reach and variety of its clinical services by overseeing the implementation of two new community hospitals, as well as growing its outpatient practices. He also provides strategic oversight for philanthropic and community benefits activities in support of the health system. Berthiaume has served in executive brand marketing leadership roles at MassMutual and eBay. In his positions, Jon has stewarded brands including American Express, Deloitte, and Walmart to focus on portfolio and architecture strategy and new brand introductions, and he has led global go-to-market activations. He is currently a board member for the Spirit of Springfield Inc. and was banquet co-chair for the 2020 National Conference for Community and Justice. He is a member of the Springfield Museums’ marketing, communications and community relations and Mi Museo committees. Since relocating to the Springfield area from New York City in 2005 to join Mercy Medical Center as a neurosurgeon, McKay has held positions such as serving on the board of directors of the Colony Club and is currently completing her second term on the board of the YWCA, where she served four years as chair of governance and two as vice president. She also serves on the board of directors of Mercy Medical Center. She has been a long-time member of the Society of William Rice, joined the subcommittee, and serves on the collections committee. Kane, a wealth management advisor for Northwestern Mutual and board chair at Elms College, has been a long-time supporter of the Springfield Museums in many different capacities. She is a former trustee, committee member, volunteer, and Society of William Rice member. She also helped organize the Museums’ ad hoc inclusion task force when she was chair, as well as helped the Museums pivot its strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Among many regional awards, she was honored as a Difference Maker by BusinessWest in the inaugural class of 2009.

•••••

BFAIR (Berkshire Family and Individual Resources) announced the promotion of Macayla Flanigan to the position of director of Learning and Employee Development. Flanigan began her journey with BFAIR as a part-time administrative assistant and has since demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and a strong commitment to excellence. Most recently serving as lead administrative assistant, she played a key role in advancing several agency initiatives, including chairing the wellness committee, co-chairing the IT development committee, and actively serving on the employee engagement and entertainment committees. In her new role, she will lead BFAIR’s initiatives to enhance staff training, foster professional growth, and strengthen employee engagement across the agency. A graduate of Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts, Flanigan has also worked as a business support specialist, guiding clients in areas such as social media and podcast production, CRM management, e-marketing operations, and administrative support.

•••••

Barney Garcia

Barney Garcia

Barney Garcia was elected as a student trustee for Westfield State University’s board of trustees for the 2025-26 academic year. Garcia is a senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science with a concentration in public administration and brings a record of public service and campus leadership to the board. He recently served as a Senate fellow for Massachusetts state Sen. Adam Gomez. In 2023, he also completed a Local Commonwealth Municipal Finance Fellowship through the Massachusetts Department of Revenue’s Division of Local Services. Before transferring to Westfield, Garcia served a one-year term as the student trustee on Holyoke Community College’s board of trustees (2023-24), where he also completed an associate degree in business administration. Garcia is the co-founder and president of the Queer Straight Alliance at Westfield State. In addition, he is a commuter representative on the Student Government Assoc. and previously served on the Commuter Council.

Company Notebook

PeoplesBank Named Among Top Corporate Charitable Contributors

HOLYOKE — PeoplesBank has again been recognized by the Boston Business Journal as a top corporate charitable contributor. The journal named the bank the top contributor among community banks in Western Mass, and second overall behind Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. PeoplesBank has made investments totaling $1.6 million annually in Massachusetts and Connecticut for the past three years. Over the last 12 years, the bank’s charitable contributions have topped $16 million. Further, the bank’s associates and board members contributed matching gifts of $55,750 in addition to the 8,500 volunteer hours they contributed.

 

Window World Named to Qualified Remodeler Top 500

BELCHERTOWN — Qualified Remodeler (QR), a leading publication serving remodelers and home improvement companies in the U.S., has ranked Window World of Western Massachusetts 125th in the country on its 47th annual Top 500 Remodelers list. This places Window World of Western Massachusetts number one in Western Mass. Since 1978, the QR Top 500 has tracked the industry’s largest and fastest growing companies. In 2025, the Top 500 represented nearly $25 billion in remodeling sales volume and 2.2 million completed jobs. Window World of Western Massachusetts was chosen as a 2025 Top 500 remodeler by the Qualified Remodeler editorial staff for meeting a set of criteria including installed remodeling dollar volume, total years in business, industry association membership, industry certification, industry awards, and community service. For more than two decades, the company has served the community with a wide range of products, including energy-efficient windows, doors, durable siding and roofing, and more.

 

Springfield College Joins Efforts to Train Teachers, Empower Readers

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College and its local K-12 school district and college partners will share $380,000 in state grant funding to support teacher development, specifically to give teachers access to evidence-based literacy instruction. The Healey-Driscoll administration recently awarded a total of $800,000 in grants to 17 school districts and 14 colleges to promote the evidence-based early literacy instructional skills of prospective and existing teachers. Springfield College is a partner with local public school districts and colleges in two consortia: the Early Literacy Consortium (ELC) and the Western Massachusetts Literacy Collaborative (WMLC), both of which will use the funding to make sure teachers are well-prepared to teach evidence-based early literacy and help students develop critical reading and writing skills. The ELC has three main priorities: improve teacher preparation, enhance classroom practices, and improve student outcomes. The WMLC consortium features the Summer Learn & Earn Program, in which the college and Springfield Public Schools select current undergraduate or graduate education majors to participate in a free graduate course offered through Elms College and work in WMLC districts as literacy intervention teachers during summer school. For Springfield College, Valerie Annear, director of Educator Preparation and Licensure, and Mark McCarthy, associate professor of Literacy Education and chair of the Department of Education, attend all meetings, participate in decision making on grant activities, and distribute both resources and training opportunities to the college’s faculty and teacher candidate supervisors.

 

Eversource Again Recognized as Tree Line USA Utility

BOSTON — For the second year in a row, Eversource has been named a Tree Line USA utility by the Arbor Day Foundation, a distinction highlighting the energy company’s ongoing commitment to following best practices for quality tree care while ensuring safe, reliable electric service for customers. The Tree Line USA program, a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Assoc. of State Foresters, celebrates forward-thinking utilities that exemplify industry leadership in vegetation management, strengthening reliability, sustainability, and public trust in the communities they serve. Eversource achieved the Tree Line USA recognition by meeting the program’s five core standards: following industry standards for quality tree care, providing annual worker training in best tree care practices, sponsoring a tree planting and public education program, maintaining a tree-based energy conservation program, and participating in an Arbor Day celebration. This year, the energy company partnered with the Arbor Day Foundation to distribute more than 1,000 free trees to customers across its three-state service territory through the nonprofit’s innovative Energy-Saving Trees program. As part of its commitment to thoughtful vegetation management practices, Eversource works year-round to advance educational partnerships with municipalities, students, and the public about planting the right tree in the right place. Additionally, the energy company’s arborists have crafted a variety of free planting resources for customers, which can help them learn more about utility-compatible plants that are native to New England as well as plants that attract pollinators and can also thrive alongside power lines.

 

UMass Amherst, Tech Foundry Partner on Degree Completion

AMHERST — UMass Amherst and the Tech Foundry announced a new collaboration enabling staff and community members of the Springfield workforce development nonprofit to complete their undergraduate degrees through the university’s flexible, customizable online program. Tech Foundry members can take classes, receive academic counseling, and map their educational pathway through UMass Amherst’s University Without Walls Department of Interdisciplinary Studies (UWW-IS), a leader in flexible, non-traditional, adult-focused education. The new collaboration reflects the university’s commitment to increasing access to public higher education while increasing workforce capacity across the Commonwealth. Current UWW-IS admission requires 12 transferrable college credits and a 2.0 GPA for adults who did not previously attend UMass Amherst. As part of its unique program, UWW-IS offers credit for prior learning or life experience. Under the agreement, students who are accepted into UWW-IS and have completed Tech Foundry’s 18-week immersive hybrid training program will receive 15 credits via special transcript, which is equivalent to a full semester courseload. UMass Amherst students need a minimum of 120 credits to earn a bachelor’s degree. The collaboration builds on earlier programs in which UMass Amherst IT provided internships for Tech Foundry trainees.

 

STCC Launches New STEM Studies Degree Program

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) has launched a STEM studies program designed to equip students with the technical knowledge, practical skills, and hands-on opportunities needed for success in a wide range of science and technology fields. An interdisciplinary program, STEM studies integrates core principles from science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, with a strong emphasis on industry-relevant applications with time spent learning equipment in labs. Students will benefit from exposure to industry-standard tools and instruction from experienced faculty with real-world knowledge of STEM careers. Students who might be interested in a career in STEM, but might not know which field to pursue, will be well-served by the program’s varied approach. The degree is also a point of entry for the burgeoning quantum sector, given that Massachusetts has invested in locating a quantum computer in Western Mass. Because quantum draws from a number of disciplines, STEM studies offers introduction to state-of-the-art equipment, as well as industry-relevant programming software. As students progress on this STEM pathway, they will have opportunities to focus on fields such as advanced manufacturing, computer systems engineering, and laser optics and photonics. The STEM studies degree program is ideal for individuals who enjoy problem solving, innovation, and applying technical skills to real-world challenges. By balancing theoretical knowledge with hands-on training, the program ensures graduates are equipped to contribute effectively to the modern technology workforce.

 

HCC Gateway to College Earns National Award

HOLYOKE — For the third consecutive year — and sixth time in the past nine — the Gateway to College program at Holyoke Community College (HCC) has received a national excellence award from its parent network, Achieving the Dream. Achieving the Dream presents excellence awards to its Gateway affiliates when those programs meet or exceed four benchmark criteria: grade point average, retention (one-year persistence and two-year persistence rates), and graduation rate. The Gateway to College program at HCC has won one or more benchmark awards for the last 10 years, and the excellence award in 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022, 2024, and 2025. Through Gateway to College, students who have dropped out of high school, or are at risk for dropping out, complete their high school diplomas in college-based programs while simultaneously earning credits toward a college certificate or degree. HCC has hosted a Gateway to College program since 2008. The program enrolled 144 students during the academic year when they received the award. During the assessment year (2024-25), students entered Gateway with an average GPA of 1.57, compared to a network average of 1.89, and finished their first term with an average GPA of 2.89, compared to a national average of 2.55. The one-year persistence rate at HCC was 94%, compared to a 63% network average. The two-year persistence at HCC was 88%, compared to a national average of 63%. HCC’s three-year graduation rate was 84%, compared to a national Gateway average of 65%.

 

DBA Certificates

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

BELCHERTOWN

Alves & Sons Remodeling
621 Franklin St.
Lori Alves

Bespoke Vintage Gifts
1 Terry Lane
Michelle MacKenzie

China Speakers Bureau
22 Oakwood Dr.
Maria Korolov

Kim’s Crafts & Quilts
506 Michael Sears Road
Kimberly LeClerc

Mama Bear Hug
16 Two Ponds Road
Donna Spraggon

Olde Enfield Co.
419 North Liberty St.
Erick Keller

Pioneer Valley Hauling & Cleanout
122 Old Bay Road
Paulos Goulas, Michael Nelson

SPG Logging
171 Old Enfield Road
Stephen Glaszcz, Beth Glaszcz

Susan Brighenti
40 Daniel Shays Highway
Susan Brighenti

Tiny Snoozers
16 Oakwood Dr.
Ann Smith

GREAT BARRINGTON

Berkshire Advocacy
140 West Ave.
Rania Markham

Berkshire Mills
117 Main St.
Patricia O’Donovan, Finbarr O’Donovan

Canopy Integrative Health Care
168 Main St.
Lisa Nelson

Elwood’s World
181 Castle St.
Elwood Smith

Friends of Moe
30 Elm St., Apt. 1E
South Berkshire Leukemia & Lymphoma Society

Great Barrington Academy
449 Monterey Road
Joan Sanchez

Green Berkshires Inc.
292 Main St., Suite 12-14
Eleanor Tillinghast

Macro Builders
11 Berkshire Heights Road
Eric Roozekrans

Odd Bird Farm Bakery
490 Main St.
Anne-Marie Lasher

Setmile
13 Lake Ave.
Aurelien Durant de Saint Marie

Shobu Akido of the Berkshires
2 Stillwell St., Suite 3
Satoru Sato

Sundari Hair
651 Main St.
Dawn Ford

Tessa Adams Psychotherapy
38 Reed St.
Tessa Adams

Warrior Trading
Ross Cameron
20 Castle St., Suite 201

HADLEY

Jamie’s House Cleaning & Home Care
102 Burke Way
Jamie Waskiewicz

KSK Plowing
5 Birch Meadow Dr.
Steven Keith

TommyCar Auto Group
40 Russell St.
Carla Zayac

TommyCar Management
40 Russell St.
Carla Zayac

Valley Community Arts Teaching
148 Russell St.
Mari Champagne

HOLYOKE

D’Angelo
2175 Whiting Farms Road
New England Authentic Eats LLC

E Trade Auto Center
1635 Northampton St.
Mohamad Ahma Dib

GameStop
50 Holyoke St.
GameStop Inc.

La Karaokee Kitchen
349 Main St.
Candy Villaronga

Kennedy Foods Inc.
333 High St.
Yasser Hussain

Mass Medical Bioquantum Academy
188 Linden St.
Fernando Loayza Galvan

Signature Engraving Systems
120 Whiting Farms Road
United Innovations Inc.

Specialty Loose Leaf
120 Whiting Farms Road
United Innovations Inc.

Urban Planet
50 Holyoke St.
CR Bricks LLC

Valley Etching Engraving
120 Whiting Farms Road
United Innovations Inc.

NORTHAMPTON

Burke Chevrolet Inc.
200 North King St.
Bryan Burke

Celia O. Hilson
575 Bridge Road, #8-5
Celia Hilson

The Center for Healing Journeys
94 King St.
Bennett Gaev

Dunephase
123 South St.
Rachel Anderson

Fitzwilly’s
21-23 Main St.
Christine Casagrande

LCS Business Solutions
17 New South St.
Anne Fitzsimmons

Lisa Owen Design
223 Main St.
Elisabeth Owen Garbutt

Mineral Hills Winery
592 Sylvester Road
Anna Pearlman

Toasted Owl
21-23 Main St.
Christine Casagrande

WESTFIELD

413 Crack Fix
419 West Road
Chase Boisseau, Jaden St. Pierre

Atlantic Cards
115 Main St., #4
Grig Cinema LLC

Chloe’s Petals
288 Russellville Road
Judith Radle

Deep Roots Landscaping & Property Services
405 Root Road
Leroy Clink Jr.

Ember’s Resin Art & Jewelry
19 Meadowbrook Lane
Jaime Dubois

Irfan HR Solutions
126 Union St., #8-12
Hameed Irfan

Ken Fletcher
28 Union St.
Kenneth Fletcher

Moments by AJ
115 Roosevelt Ave.
Andre Arkoette

Platinum Plumbing
27 State St.
Tymofiy Dymytrov

Rudy Does
10 Columbia St.
Rudolf Galustov

Summit Solar Wash
240 Buck Pond Road
Parker Goyette, Paul Deven

Bankruptcies

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

Breslin, Stephen M.
580 Fuller St.
LudlowMA01056
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/08/2025

Brodecki, Marc V.
Brodecki, Jennifer
a/k/a Ramos, Jennifer
253 Fernbank Road, Apt. 8
SpringfieldMA01129
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/05/2025

Browne, John I.
15 Dewey St.
SpringfieldMA01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/08/2025

Copeland, Ryckayla A.
308 Wilbraham Road
SpringfieldMA01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/04/2025

Daniels, Felissa
136 Marsden St.
SpringfieldMA01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/04/2025

Demos, Jonathan Garrett
36 Chipmunk Road
SpringfieldMA01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Frogameni, Anthony J.
42 Sunridge Dr.
SpringfieldMA01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/08/2025

Galarneau, Megan J.
46 Rosella St.
SpringfieldMA01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/15/20

Gomez, Amanda Lynn
136 Robert Dyer Circle
SpringfieldMA01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/13/2025

Grant, Susan E.
2363 Westfield St., 2nd Fl.
West SpringfieldMA01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/14/2025

Johnson, Susan Z.
22 Lyon Hill Road
ChesterMA01011
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Kelley, Richard C.
14 Jackson St., Apt. 1
North AdamsMA01247
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/13/2025

Kelly, Tianna
50 Campechi St.
SpringfieldMA01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Kratovil, Susan Marie
94 Kensington St.
Feeding HillsMA01030
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/14/2025

Lingenberg, Robert G.
36 Foss Ave.
ChicopeeMA01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/08/2025

Martin, Joseph Robert
P.O. Box 262
WestfieldMA01086
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/06/2025

Morales, Vidal L.
62 Worcester Ave.
SpringfieldMA01107
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Murray, Aaron P.
176 Draper St.
SpringfieldMA01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/14/2025

New England Upholstery
Vento, Paul R.
3824 Chestnut Hill Ave.
AtholMA01331
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/15/2025

Ortiz, Robert Junior
95 Prospect St., Ext
WestfieldMA01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/11/2025

Peterson, Katherine Tara
131 Ashley Ave., Apt. N4
West SpringfieldMA01089-1342
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/31/2025

Pierce, Emily C .
113 Tannery Road
WestfieldMA01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/13/2025

Salvador, Patricia
269 Stoney Hill Road
WilbrahamMA01095
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/08/2025

Sarlan, Amy Lynn
19 Lower Hampden Road
MonsonMA01057
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/13/2025

Serrano, Ivan O.
Serrano, Melina C.
a/k/a Cintron-Serrano, Melina
99 Kingsley St.
SpringfieldMA01104
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/31/2025

Stanley, Kena L.
a/k/a Richardson-Wright, Kena L.
350 Riverbend St.
AtholMA01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/13/2025

Sullivan, Michael J.
294 Regency Park Dr.
AgawamMA01001
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/14/2025

Tavarez, Jose J.
a/k/a Tavarez Salcedo, Jose J.
421 Maple Str.
SpringfieldMA01105
Chapter: 7
Date: 08/15/2025

Williams, Tyrese Daquan
244 Redlands
SpringfieldMA01104
Chapter: 13
Date: 08/15/20

Uncategorized

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

1327 Williamsburg Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Isaac Held
Seller: Travis Minnick
Date: 09/09/25

BERNARDSTON

703 Brattleboro Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Connelly RT
Seller: Lauri A. Rice
Date: 09/08/25

ERVING

4 East Prospect St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Mitchell Mailloux
Seller: William F. Lemieux
Date: 09/10/25

DEERFIELD

9 Elm St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Otter Brook Realty LLC
Seller: Richard Strong
Date: 09/05/25

49 Sawmill Plain Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Alliance Partners Real Estate LLC
Seller: Kyle R. Bryant
Date: 09/03/25

24 Steam Mill Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Mason
Seller: Arthur L. Morgan
Date: 09/04/25

GILL

186 West Gill Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $228,216
Buyer: Kristy E. McCay-Kim
Seller: Tracy L. Shaw
Date: 09/02/25

GREENFIELD

40 Allen St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Emerson Properties LLC
Seller: Squires, Deboran M., (Estate)
Date: 09/05/25

303 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Ellen Adkins
Seller: City Of Greenfield
Date: 09/08/25

98-100 Hope St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Trang N. Nguyen
Seller: Salim Abdoo
Date: 09/11/25

LEVERETT

60 Camp Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Benjamin Strohler
Seller: Thomas H. Friedman
Date: 09/09/25

MONROE

98 North Road
Monroe, MA 01350
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Final Harbor Farm LLC
Seller: Lee Stau
Date: 09/05/25

MONTAGUE

Meadow Road, Lot A
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Joshua N. Goldman
Seller: Charles E. Bell
Date: 09/02/25

NORTHFIELD

166 Gulf Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $598,000
Buyer: Phillips B. Sherburne
Seller: Eds Enterprises LLC
Date: 09/05/25

3 Linden Ave.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Ella-Simone L. Trickey
Seller: Catherine N. Woolner
Date: 09/05/25

759 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Brittany L. Chapin
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 09/10/25

ORANGE

331-333 E. Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: My-Ilove A. Bazelais
Seller: Courtney A. Fifield
Date: 09/08/25

37 Logan Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $180,500
Buyer: Athol Realty Investors LLC
Seller: Michael D. Woessner
Date: 09/08/25

107 Mechanic St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $345,780
Buyer: Maureen L. Johnson
Seller: Archer Acquisition LLC
Date: 09/03/25

SHELBURNE

45 Main St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Ons Realty LLC
Seller: Josiah J. L. Simpson INT
Date: 09/10/25

WHATELY

Long Plain Road
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Matthew C. Kidd
Seller: Kathleen M. Wroblewski
Date: 09/05/25

103 Long Plain Road
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $785,000
Buyer: Matthew C. Kidd
Seller: Michael R. Morawski
Date: 09/05/25

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

98 Alhambra Circle N
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Peter P. Hoffman
Date: 09/03/25

62 Clematis Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Jennifer Cote
Seller: David L. Wells
Date: 09/09/25

93 Hall St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Erin Mallory
Seller: Brindle, Jean Graham, (Estate)
Date: 09/04/25

529 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Christopher T. Lombardi
Seller: Hayder Dawood
Date: 09/08/25

42 Mountainview St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $316,000
Buyer: Kristin A. Smith
Seller: Robin Wozniak
Date: 09/03/25

38 North West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Sherrie Szafranski
Seller: John S. Convertino
Date: 09/12/25

166 Nicole Ter.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Sharon Hamel
Seller: Hillside Development Corp.
Date: 09/10/25

96 Roberta Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Mykola Mokhnatskyi
Seller: Dolores T. Shea
Date: 09/12/25

30 Royal Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Nelcilia Telfort
Seller: Sharleen Diaz
Date: 09/09/25

80 Vassar Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Christopher C. Hale
Seller: David Wolff
Date: 09/04/25

125 Woodside Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Todd Helems
Seller: Jennifer Cote
Date: 09/09/25

BRIMFIELD

153 Haynes Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Herbert F. Seymour
Seller: Jewel Real Estate Inc.
Date: 09/05/25

12 Paige Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $458,000
Buyer: Tiyika Minton
Seller: Andrew T. Porter
Date: 09/12/25

199 Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Mark Kline
Seller: Jewel Real Estate Inc.
Date: 09/09/25

CHESTER

11 Campbell Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: J. Sperry Realty LLC
Seller: Karen L. Sakaske
Date: 09/12/25

275 Goss Hill Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Kyle Bienia
Seller: Deane R. Messeck
Date: 09/08/25

279 Goss Hill Road
Chester, MA 01050
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Kyle Bienia
Seller: Deane R. Messeck
Date: 09/08/25

277 Skyline Trail
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Zachary MacKechnie
Seller: Brendan MacKechnie
Date: 09/09/25

613 Skyline Trail
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $489,500
Buyer: Dominick M. Leva
Seller: Alan D. Vautier
Date: 09/05/25

CHICOPEE

163 Amherst St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Jovan O. Rivera-Vazquez
Seller: Illumination Home LLC
Date: 09/04/25

233 Basil Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $479,000
Buyer: Renee A. Rodolakis
Seller: David J. Dingee
Date: 09/12/25

63 Chapin St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Anthony Wheeler
Seller: Diane M. Szlachetka
Date: 09/12/25

72 College St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Carlos Rivera-Melo
Seller: Elite Investment Group LLC
Date: 09/08/25

80 Frontenac St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $317,500
Buyer: Tiffany L. May
Seller: Eliezer R. Vazquez
Date: 09/05/25

55 Fuller St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $242,000
Buyer: Cascade Funding Mortgage TR Hb1
Seller: Louis P. Suzor
Date: 09/03/25

112 Grape St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: IHI Wave LLC
Seller: Richton & Wynne LLC
Date: 09/11/25

156 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $230,692
Buyer: JP Morgan Chase Bank
Seller: Dennis T. Biggins
Date: 09/08/25

336 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Kamacite Holdings LLC
Seller: PC Sandals LLC
Date: 09/04/25

16 Lincoln St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: David Wagner
Seller: Snatch Block Properties LLC
Date: 09/04/25

97 Lombard St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Ihi Wave LLC
Seller: Kaali Huang LLC
Date: 09/09/25

165 Old Lyman Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Riley G. Villeneuve
Seller: Guimares, Rose M., (Estate)
Date: 09/03/25

14 Ralph Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Janna L. Dewitt
Seller: Elizabeth A. Gaskins
Date: 09/04/25

47 Sullivan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Danielle Lefebvre
Seller: David C. Berthold
Date: 09/08/25

25 Yelle St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Burhan Holdings One LLC
Seller: Louis Veillette
Date: 09/09/25

EAST LONGMEADOW

18 Brook St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Thomas A. Prosser
Seller: Sai W. He
Date: 09/12/25

44 Edmund St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Stellar Homes Inc.
Seller: Hubert J. Severin
Date: 09/03/25

65 Harwich Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $365,500
Buyer: Brittany Trombley
Seller: Erin Beck-Richard
Date: 09/11/25

234 Mapleshade Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: John E. Foley
Date: 09/05/25

103 Pleasant St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Trevor S. Banas
Seller: Bryan Hughes
Date: 09/09/25

10 Silver Fox Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $655,000
Buyer: Julie Burger
Seller: Gaurav Yadav
Date: 09/12/25

37 Terry Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $718,000
Buyer: Zhi Huang
Seller: Irina Taylor
Date: 09/08/25

GRANVILLE

176 Silver St.
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $995,000
Buyer: Scott R. Taylor
Seller: Patrick Sullivan
Date: 09/12/25

HAMPDEN

376 Chapin Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $496,000
Buyer: Rowan Sutton
Seller: Keith D. Lemelin-Bliss
Date: 09/09/25

Glendale Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Thomas E. Cooke
Seller: Steven E. Guzzo
Date: 09/04/25

12 Rose Circle
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Joejoe Properties LLC
Seller: Scott T. Mason
Date: 09/08/25

181 Sessions Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Joseph F. Davis
Seller: Constance Cooley RET
Date: 09/08/25

HOLLAND

43 Lake Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Gary Naples
Seller: Bruce Przygocki
Date: 09/12/25

61 Sturbridge Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Lisa Boudreau LLC
Seller: Fontaine, Kenneth R., (Estate)
Date: 09/10/25

HOLYOKE

70-72 Center St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Hassle Free LLC
Seller: Aponte, Carlos Jose, (Estate)
Date: 09/05/25

165-167 Essex St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Hoodoo Realty LLC
Seller: 165-167 Essex Street RT
Date: 09/05/25

14 Longfellow Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: John E. Leahy
Seller: B&B Real Estate LLC
Date: 09/09/25

31 Longfellow Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $461,000
Buyer: Ryan M. Ferriter
Seller: John J. Ferriter
Date: 09/02/25

26 Lower Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $402,500
Buyer: Angela Gonzalez
Seller: Maureen L. Johnson
Date: 09/02/25

349-351 Main St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Dennis Burgos
Seller: Netflips LLC
Date: 09/12/25

284 Maple St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Levi Smith
Seller: Ryan E. Knoechelman
Date: 09/04/25

33 Montgomery Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $495,150
Buyer: Ruth Epstein
Seller: Mathieu Hemono
Date: 09/05/25

136 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Leannice Del Valle
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 09/12/25

140 Pearl St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Maylin Garcia
Seller: Witman Properties Inc.
Date: 09/03/25

271-273 Pleasant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Marie-Ange Laroche
Seller: Francis M. Croke
Date: 09/05/25

72 Reservation Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $276,500
Buyer: Stephen J. Dickenson
Seller: Eric Lavalley
Date: 09/04/25

140 Sycamore St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Property Advantage Inc.
Seller: Susan R. Canedy
Date: 09/05/25

83 Wellesley Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Amy E. Thompson
Seller: Lily A. Foster
Date: 09/02/25

LONGMEADOW

57 Arcadia St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Tracy L. Bentley-Root
Seller: Brian J. Krylowicz
Date: 09/09/25

15 Bellevue Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Olivia M. Kowal
Seller: Nuno M. Machado
Date: 09/05/25

72 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Meili Song
Seller: Stephen T. Digiacomo
Date: 09/08/25

291 Deepwoods Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Matthew Murphy
Seller: David L. Rainey
Date: 09/12/25

240 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $501,000
Buyer: Nicholas Manthei
Seller: Suzanne S. White
Date: 09/04/25

7 Twin Hills Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,050,000
Buyer: Nakul Ravikumar
Seller: Susan E. Denmark
Date: 09/08/25

223 Wolf Swamp Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Kelly E. Loftus
Seller: Barbara S. Thomas
Date: 09/12/25

93 Wyndward Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Jeffrey D. Kraez RET
Seller: John P. Dombek
Date: 09/02/25

LUDLOW

51 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Jennifer A. Martin
Seller: Joseph L. Wlodyka
Date: 09/02/25

763 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Jospeh P. Sepanek
Seller: Obrzut, Michael S., (Estate)
Date: 09/12/25

32 Rood St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Szf Properties LLC
Seller: Town Of Ludlow
Date: 09/08/25

MONSON

37 Bridge St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Real Estate Investors Northeast LLC
Seller: Cascade Funding Mortgage TR Hb4
Date: 09/09/25

34 Paradise Lake Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Geoffrey D. Parke
Seller: Paradise Lake Road LLC
Date: 09/10/25

PALMER

23 Fieldstone Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $499,000
Buyer: John Lendway
Seller: Renee E. Rochette
Date: 09/12/25

163 Flynt St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Noah P. Casino
Seller: Traceyann Gallagher
Date: 09/03/25

RUSSELL

716 Woodland Way
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: Joseph Liberti
Seller: Dewey M. Kolvek
Date: 09/09/25

SPRINGFIELD

123 Appleton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Thy Truong
Seller: Tuan Truong
Date: 09/11/25

24 Arliss St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Neffortiti B. Okyere
Seller: Carlos Cruz
Date: 09/08/25

122 Avery St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Kirk D. Craigg
Seller: Kadian P. James
Date: 09/02/25

1396 Berkshire Ave.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Pablo H. Flores-Martinez
Seller: David J. Pluta RET
Date: 09/09/25

88 Biltmore St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Rufus Polk
Seller: Alecsei Cherkashin
Date: 09/12/25

443-445 Cadwell Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Leyfi A. Sanchez
Seller: 102-104 Davenport TR
Date: 09/09/25

34 Canterbury Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Megan Fueston
Seller: Milagros Rodriguez
Date: 09/12/25

478-480 Central St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Serie 056 Motors & Services LLC
Seller: 480 Central Street RR
Date: 09/05/25

169 Centre St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jose A. Hincapie
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 09/10/25

52-54 Cherrelyn St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Cheryl Norwood
Seller: April P. Tluszcz
Date: 09/05/25

117 Croyden Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Jesus M. Vazquez Rosario
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 09/09/25

35-37 Daviston St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $376,000
Buyer: Michael Munoz
Seller: Sheila Scott
Date: 09/12/25

105 Denwall Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: Beard, Theresa A., (Estate)
Date: 09/02/25

166 Drexel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: De J. Devasquez
Seller: Fernando D. Dos Santos
Date: 09/08/25

145-147 Elmore Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $257,000
Buyer: Silk Morrison
Seller: Bertha C. Frye
Date: 09/02/25

125 Fair Oak Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Stacyann O. Lothian
Seller: William E. Butler
Date: 09/04/25

94 Fenimore Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Anibelka Reyes
Seller: Randall C. Wing
Date: 09/08/25

30 Firglade Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Lbe LLC
Seller: Mildred J. Horensky
Date: 09/05/25

89 Firglade Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $517,500
Buyer: Jinzy M. George
Seller: Jjj17 LLC
Date: 09/12/25

34 Flora St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $213,000
Buyer: AJ Capital Inc.
Seller: Jayson Morales
Date: 09/03/25

34 Flora St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Springhouse Prop LLC
Seller: AJ Capital Inc.
Date: 09/03/25

53 Freeman Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $141,500
Buyer: Tower Property Mgmt. LLC
Seller: Tower Property Mgmt. LLC
Date: 09/12/25

44 Gillette Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $371,000
Buyer: Hahn Chanh
Seller: Darla Rivest
Date: 09/09/25

28 Glen Albyn St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Farrova Forren Inc.
Seller: William Rivera
Date: 09/05/25

67 Grandview St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $268,000
Buyer: Reinaldo Pacheco
Seller: Samone A. Nowlin
Date: 09/09/25

21-23 Howes St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Shakayla S. Washington
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 09/08/25

48 Lawnwood St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Grace Obeng
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 09/09/25

58 Maebeth St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Kimberly Lovewell
Seller: 58 Maebeth Street NT
Date: 09/05/25

170-174 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jose A. Hincapie
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 09/10/25

178-180 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Unlimited Plus Realty LLC
Seller: Standing Bear LLC
Date: 09/11/25

16-18 Malden St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $408,000
Buyer: Anthony A. Izquierdo
Seller: Hector Torres-Diaz
Date: 09/02/25

17 Marquette St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Eric Perez
Seller: Eric R. Kenney
Date: 09/05/25

130 Merida St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Luis M. Torres
Seller: Linda Pierson
Date: 09/09/25

50-52 Milton St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Cassidy Britton
Seller: Jessica U. Bergeron
Date: 09/09/25

103 Monrovia St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Luis D. Arroyo
Seller: Diane H. Hunter
Date: 09/12/25

11 Nathaniel St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Deasiah S. McMillian
Seller: Courageous Lion LLC
Date: 09/05/25

27 Nokomis St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Virgilio Santos
Seller: Sandra R. Shea
Date: 09/02/25

84 North Brook Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $322,000
Buyer: Marian N. Tombri
Seller: Naples Home Buyers TR
Date: 09/12/25

202 Oakland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Round Two LLC
Seller: Evelyn M. Bellerose
Date: 09/05/25

11-31 Park St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $4,200,000
Buyer: H. P. Rum LLC
Seller: Briarwood Seven LLC
Date: 09/04/25

331 Parkerview St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Vicki L. Anderson
Seller: Jeffrey P. Czelusniak
Date: 09/11/25

23 Pennfield St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: April Tluszcz
Seller: Lewis, Richard A., (Estate)
Date: 09/05/25

43 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Orlando J. Monegro
Seller: Wanda Sanchez
Date: 09/08/25

61-63 Pomona St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Oraka Wellington
Seller: Onassis Martinez
Date: 09/04/25

49 Prospect St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Mariela M. De Martinez
Seller: Welhington S. Dasilva
Date: 09/12/25

62-64 Rifle St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $329,000
Buyer: Richard D. Cruz
Seller: Jeremiah Sampson
Date: 09/05/25

90 Rochelle St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Francisco Tavarez
Seller: Thomas P. Myers
Date: 09/05/25

76 Roosevelt Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $301,500
Buyer: Marie A. Chartrand
Seller: Carole J. Stmarie
Date: 09/10/25

244 Springfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Jama Barbour
Seller: Mark Manzella
Date: 09/02/25

407 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Jose T. Sagrero
Seller: Gen-Wealth Properties LLC
Date: 09/04/25

38 Tyrone St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Hassle Free LLC
Seller: Reuter, Philip C., (Estate)
Date: 09/04/25

58-60 Virginia St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Shonnette S. Clarke-Smith
Seller: Angela Y. Jenkins
Date: 09/03/25

87 Wakefield St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Carlos E. Ortiz-Lopez
Seller: Kate Faulkner
Date: 09/03/25

24 Wands St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Dpn Homes LLC
Seller: Citigroup Mortgage Loan TR 2022
Date: 09/03/25

53 Warrenton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Luis J. Cintron
Seller: Bho Realty LLC
Date: 09/02/25

25 West Crystal Brook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Joshua Fines
Seller: Nres LLC
Date: 09/12/25

61-63 Wilcox St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Kokoleka RT
Seller: Robert Lopez
Date: 09/12/25

403 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Domingos Barroso
Seller: Gama Investments LLC
Date: 09/03/25

46 Wildwood Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Jose J. Garcia
Seller: Salvatore Decesare
Date: 09/12/25

854-856 Worthington St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $394,000
Buyer: Nyasia Lopez
Seller: Mint Realty Group LLC
Date: 09/11/25

SOUTHWICK

264 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $1,800,000
Buyer: 264 College Owner LLC
Seller: Southwick Acres Inc.
Date: 09/03/25

24 Congamond Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Bridget Mancini
Seller: Lisa M. Morse
Date: 09/08/25

116 Congamond Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $537,500
Buyer: Michael Leander
Seller: Deborah Elias
Date: 09/12/25

56 Summer Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Jaydub LLC
Seller: James A. Neill
Date: 09/05/25

TOLLAND

77 Chipmunk Xing
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $502,500
Buyer: Marianne Du Toit
Seller: Nicholas D. Porter
Date: 09/02/25

78 Slope Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $377,500
Buyer: Eric Fisher
Seller: Matthew J. Perry
Date: 09/05/25

WESTFIELD

48 Darby Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $458,000
Buyer: Mikaela Spence
Seller: Scott G. Mortimer
Date: 09/12/25

6 Elise St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $7,125,000
Buyer: Tea-Land Westfield LLC
Seller: Real Estate Invest I LLC
Date: 09/04/25

8 Elise St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $7,125,000
Buyer: Tea-Land Westfield LLC
Seller: Real Estate Invest I LLC
Date: 09/04/25

28 Jeremy Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $579,000
Buyer: Robert Lepage
Seller: Jodi L. Kashouh
Date: 09/05/25

19 Kellogg St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Perusse, Joseph T., (Estate)
Date: 09/04/25

32 Linda Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Allison Garriss
Seller: Donald F. Burrage
Date: 09/04/25

173 Main St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $338,000
Buyer: Cristian J. Morales
Seller: Laura C. Smithies
Date: 09/05/25

33 Miller St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $359,900
Buyer: E. Karathanasopoulos
Seller: Squires 101 LLC
Date: 09/08/25

27 Mountain View St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Peter Miller
Seller: Gay A. Megliola IRT
Date: 09/05/25

13 Myrtle Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Isaias Colombani
Seller: Candace Champagne
Date: 09/05/25

14 Old Park Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $647,000
Buyer: Bryan Mruk
Seller: Julie A. Thompson
Date: 09/10/25

20 Perkins St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: Veronica Garcia RET
Seller: Richard B. Veduccio
Date: 09/03/25

22 Pinewood Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Jack Masciadrelli
Seller: Zachary S. Mackechnie
Date: 09/09/25

30 Radisson Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $571,000
Buyer: Nancy A. Brown
Seller: Joseph P. Liberti
Date: 09/09/25

978 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Ddmns Realty LLC
Seller: Kenneth G. Dulude
Date: 09/04/25

59 Susan Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $434,000
Buyer: Zachary Mackechnie
Seller: Maloney, Eleanor C., (Estate)
Date: 09/09/25

82-1/2 West Silver St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Griffin Gundersen
Seller: Benson, Cheryl L., (Estate)
Date: 09/02/25

WILBRAHAM

3076 Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $206,000
Buyer: Fumi Realty Inc.
Seller: Walter W. Tyszka
Date: 09/09/25

11 Brentwood Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $595,000
Buyer: Daniel E. Dwarska
Seller: Timothy J. McMahon LT
Date: 09/03/25

21 Carla Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $690,000
Buyer: Nisha Malik
Seller: Wonhong Lee
Date: 09/03/25

6 Hitching Post Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $989,900
Buyer: Zachery J. Carr
Seller: Ryan Shaink
Date: 09/02/25

5 Kensington Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $830,000
Buyer: Philip M. McCarthy
Seller: Amandeep Guliani
Date: 09/11/25

461-465 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Doublemark Properties LLC
Seller: Kruller LLC
Date: 09/11/25

1 Maplewood Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Maria A. Restrepo
Seller: Brian Bracci
Date: 09/05/25

25 Pineywood Ave.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $326,250
Buyer: Aidan J. Baceski
Seller: Mco Construction LLC
Date: 09/12/25

7 Scenic Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $558,000
Buyer: Veronica Cruz
Seller: Krista M. Mazucca
Date: 09/08/25

495-497 Springfield St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Ckj Realty LLC
Seller: Sean B. Fitzgerald
Date: 09/12/25

20 Wellfleet Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $810,000
Buyer: Ryan Costello
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 09/12/25

WEST SPRINGFIELD

149 Ashley Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $1,600,000
Buyer: Jdz Realty LLC
Seller: West Springfield Club Properties LLC
Date: 09/05/25

147 Highland Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Ronald J. Tomasauckas
Seller: Toton, Loretta Sigrid, (Estate)
Date: 09/05/25

94 Baldwin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Nilson De Sa
Seller: Bayram Kadimov
Date: 09/11/25

39-41 East School St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Roman Kirstia
Seller: Dmitriy Shalypin
Date: 09/08/25

40 Field St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $284,900
Buyer: Sara Koizumi
Seller: Marc R. Bryden
Date: 09/12/25

20 Harney St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: James M. Stoddard
Seller: Langton, S. Hathaway, (Estate)
Date: 09/09/25

87 Havenhurst Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Christopher Comack
Seller: Christopher D. Fager
Date: 09/12/25

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

124 Pomeroy Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Manire RET
Seller: Peggy Jeanne Corkan RET
Date: 09/12/25

1301 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Cristy L. Galvin
Seller: Rachel J. Kennedy
Date: 09/03/25

3 South Middle St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Ourverture Consulting Svc
Seller: South Middle St. Inc.
Date: 09/05/25

1535 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Audrey Bulger
Seller: Jean A. Kentfield
Date: 09/11/25

7 South Middle St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Ourverture Consulting Services
Seller: South Middle St. Inc.
Date: 09/05/25

BELCHERTOWN

485 Amherst Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Choquette Capital Properties LLC
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 09/09/25

595 Bardwell St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Javier Cruz
Seller: John C. Nadeau
Date: 09/08/25

191 East St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $499,000
Buyer: Marcella Fitzgerald
Seller: Robert G. Zucker
Date: 09/05/25

720 Franklin St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $150,300
Buyer: Robert Mileski
Seller: Town Of Belchertown
Date: 09/10/25

285 Granby Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $225,007
Buyer: B&B Realty Partners LLC
Seller: Joseph A. Jacintho RET
Date: 09/12/25

33 Helen Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $685,000
Buyer: Bryan Hughes
Seller: Edward O. Mathurin
Date: 09/09/25

445 Michael Sears Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $549,900
Buyer: Normand Rioux
Seller: Mass. Home Buyers LLC
Date: 09/03/25

612 North Liberty St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Alisson Cote
Seller: Darin W. Braese
Date: 09/10/25

12 Old Bay Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $950,000
Buyer: Alexander Washut
Seller: Gordon W. Boyce
Date: 09/12/25

438 State St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Sjana Pobieglo
Seller: Alyssa Maggi
Date: 09/04/25

CHESTERFIELD

196 Ireland St.
Chesterfield, MA 01084
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Kimberly A. Messeck
Seller: Kenneth A. Sicard
Date: 09/03/25

EASTHAMPTON

15 Davis St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Tiny Dreams Property LLC
Seller: Sally Rourke
Date: 09/08/25

119 Ferry St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Kyle Lucchesi
Seller: David H. Lucchesi
Date: 09/10/25

103 Holyoke St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Allison I. Guinn
Seller: Aleeta J. Sasarak
Date: 09/03/25

17 John St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Ami N. Breton
Seller: Murphy, Janice M., (Estate)
Date: 09/03/25

6 Orchard St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Ninis Real Estate LLC
Seller: Melvin J. Lafrance
Date: 09/02/25

6 Russell Lane
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Lucie Bodnar
Seller: Andrea Young
Date: 09/03/25

50 Williston Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $580,000
Buyer: Alec Bates
Seller: Boone W. Shear
Date: 09/02/25

GRANBY

74 Aldrich St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $595,000
Buyer: Kristy J. Daniels
Seller: Michael P. Sheridan
Date: 09/08/25

150 Harris St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $590,000
Buyer: Nicholas Shaink
Seller: Scott A. Merrill
Date: 09/05/25

12 Pleasant St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: William Bateson
Seller: Brian J. Williams
Date: 09/12/25

 

HATFIELD

15 Gore Ave.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $595,000
Buyer: Brian Lickel
Seller: Arthur F. Rubeck
Date: 09/09/25

40 North St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Jean P. Crevier
Seller: Kristen L. Forrest
Date: 09/05/25

66 West St.
Hatfield, MA 01088
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Barker Properties LLC
Seller: Susan Breen
Date: 09/12/25

MIDDLEFIELD

88 Town Hill Road
Middlefield, MA 01243
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Lucy R. Miller RET
Seller: Michael W. Romanowski RET
Date: 09/04/25

NORTHAMPTON

40 Alamo Court
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Sonja D. Williams
Seller: Elizabeth M. Robinson LT
Date: 09/05/25

243 Bridge St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Joshua Cohen
Seller: Paul G. Solomon
Date: 09/05/25

17 Brookwood Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $392,000
Buyer: Darcy Lambert
Seller: Stacey L. Noble
Date: 09/04/25

75 Chesterfield Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $620,000
Buyer: Stacey L. Noble
Seller: Lerena E. Silverman
Date: 09/04/25

237 Glendale Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $640,000
Buyer: Meredith Rochette
Seller: Kelly R. Baxter
Date: 09/12/25

115 Industrial Dr.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $2,950,000
Buyer: Gbt Associates LLC
Seller: WAM LLC
Date: 09/09/25

263 Main St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,700,000
Buyer: 261 Main St. LLC
Seller: Lub LLC
Date: 09/02/25

35 Marshall St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: John O. Mitchell
Seller: Emily C. Griffen
Date: 09/12/25

208 North Elm St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $316,000
Buyer: Coalie RT
Seller: Brouwers, Lissa A., (Estate)
Date: 09/09/25

303 South St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Jonathan Blocksom
Seller: Graham J. Carlson
Date: 09/05/25

8 Warner St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Markert
Seller: Karen Moran
Date: 09/08/25

PELHAM

40 Harkness Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Jefferey L. Kahn
Seller: Peter Turowski
Date: 09/05/25

SOUTH HADLEY

64 Bardwell St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $361,000
Buyer: Adrea Ricketts-Preston
Seller: Patrick Murphy
Date: 09/12/25

2 Bunker Hill
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Jeremy Mendez
Seller: Rodzen, Pamela J., (Estate)
Date: 09/04/25

309 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $595,000
Buyer: James Duffy
Seller: Philip S. Thomas
Date: 09/12/25

73 Lamb St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Bernash Realty LLC
Seller: Dominic R. Florence
Date: 09/05/25

11 Laurie Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Crystal Barnes
Seller: Kyle J. Callahan
Date: 09/12/25

4 Lyman Ter.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Brandon St Hilaire
Seller: William T. Baxter
Date: 09/12/25

96 Lyman St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Bernash Realy LLC
Seller: William J. Mugg RET
Date: 09/05/25

149 North Main St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Michael Sawicki
Seller: Zachary E. Martin
Date: 09/12/25

SOUTHAMPTON

198 College Hwy.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $318,000
Buyer: Christian A. Cosme
Seller: Sarah E. O’Donnel
Date: 09/09/25

121 East St.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Liam C. O’Connor
Seller: Deborah M. Trudeau
Date: 09/12/25

54 Pequot Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Servicenet Inc.
Seller: Fitzgerald, Emily M., (Estate)
Date: 09/05/25

WARE

26 Cummings Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Sam Zhano
Seller: Charlotte E. Mulligan RET
Date: 09/03/25

60 Cummings Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Hunter Piche
Seller: David R. Silloway
Date: 09/12/25

106 Pleasant St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Robert B. Owens
Seller: Lynn A. Kinner
Date: 09/02/25

WESTHAMPTON

49 Burt Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Analytical Sciences Marketing
Seller: Michael H. Dunn
Date: 09/02/25

WILLIAMSBURG

2 North St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Rachel Goodenow
Seller: York, Jean T., (Estate)
Date: 09/11/25

WORTHINGTON

269 River Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $392,000
Buyer: Dylan Young
Seller: J. H. Chase
Date: 09/12/25

Building Permits

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

CHICOPEE

London Realty LLC
101 Springfield St.
$15,000 — Roofing

Newell Real Estate LLC
398 Front St.
$8,300 — Roofing and brick replacement at Fruit Fair

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Mahadev LLC
37-43 Union St.
$60,000 — Removal of existing roof and some interior drywall and insulation due to water damage

MAPAM-1 LLC
179 Northampton St.
$38,000 — Refurbish tenant space, including removal of some interior wall partitions to create enlarged space

LEE

Berkshire Restaurant Properties Inc.
33 Main St.
$23,625 — Insulation and air sealing

Khant Min, Khaing Mahnin
114 Housatonic St.
$28,250 — Add full bathroom on second floor

LENOX

Crown Castle International
90 Pittsfield Road
$56,398 — Install three panel antennas on tower

United Church of Christ
169 Main St.
$110,000 — Remove existing ramp and install new ramp and deck at north entrance

PITTSFIELD

AC Enterprises LLC
163 Fourth St.
$15,000 — Modify existing room into two accessible toilet rooms

City of Pittsfield
8 Holmes Road
$102,500 — Roofing

Clinical & Support Options Inc.
877 South St.
$40,044 — Interior fit-out with new framing and finishes to add additional office space

Five Sixty Tyler Street LLC
560 Tyler St.
$10,000 — Enclose wash bay for new mechanical room

Hurricane Properties LLC
20 Pomeroy Ave.
$2,800 — Frame out and install fireblock drywall ceiling in laundry room, install handrail in basement

Keypoint Partners LLC
660 Merrill Road
$99,000 — Interior renovation of existing Five Guys restaurant, including new wall finishes, new furniture, new lighting upgrades, and equipment replacement

New Amsterdam LP
421 North St.
$2,191 — Upgrade egress lighting

Unistress Corp.
500 Cheshire Road
$1,770,000 — Structural steel addition to existing manufacturing facility

White Terrace Building LLC
592 North St.
$2,000 — Remove some sidewalk and one step, replace step with ADA ramp

Daily News

WILBRAHAM — Charter (Spectrum) announced a nearly $50 million private investment by the company in Massachusetts, as part of its ongoing and company-wide network evolution project. This major initiative will further enhance Spectrum’s internet services, delivering faster speeds and improved reliability for Spectrum customers across the Commonwealth.

The Spectrum project has been underway in Massachusetts for much of 2025, and the company expects the upgrades will be substantially complete in Massachusetts by the end 2025. The company’s investment will enable the delivery of symmetrical gigabit and multi-gigabit speeds to Spectrum customers in communities throughout Massachusetts, including Wilbraham, Belchertown, Brimfield, Chicopee, Easthampton, East Longmeadow, Hadley, Hampden, Ludlow, Southampton, and Wales.

“This nearly $50 million investment in Massachusetts highlights Spectrum’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge internet technology to our customers,” said Camille Joseph, group vice president of State Government Affairs at Charter Communications. “This project is another example of Spectrum’s dedication to continuous improvement, including upgrading our network now to meet the future speed and reliability needs of our residential and business customers, in addition to delivering highest-quality service from our 100% U.S.-based employee workforce, all at great value. Particularly when combined with our award-winning mobile and video services, Spectrum delivers the best in entertainment and connectivity services for our customers.”

State legislators were on hand for the announcement. “Spectrum’s investment in Massachusetts marks a significant step toward closing the digital divide,” state Sen. Jake Oliveira said. “As we move deeper into the digital age, this project will equip our communities with the essential infrastructure to succeed in education, healthcare, and business.”

State Rep. Angelo Puppolo added that “today marks a pivotal moment for our area as Spectrum unveils its commitment to enhancing digital connectivity. This investment is not just about speed; it’s about empowering our residents and businesses with the tools necessary for innovation and growth.”

State Rep. Brian Ashe agreed. “I applaud Spectrum’s dedication to improving digital access across our state,” he said. “This nearly $50 million investment will bring transformative changes, offering unprecedented internet speeds and reliability. Our communities stand to gain significantly, with new opportunities for development and modernization at their doorstep.”

Karen Charles, commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Telecommunications and Cable, added that, “together with industry partners like Spectrum, we have continued to tackle the broadband connectivity challenges faced by Massachusetts residents and businesses, and today’s announcement marks another step forward in providing reliable and sustainable broadband service to communities throughout the Commonwealth.”

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced $7.4 million in workforce development grant funding for 16 initiatives across Massachusetts — including two in Western Mass. — representing partnerships with employers, training providers, and regional collaborators to train, upskill, and provide job placement for 1,161 workers for in-demand occupations in healthcare, education, information technology, and more.

The Senator Kenneth J. Donnelly Workforce Success Grants are funded by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and administered by Commonwealth Corp. through the state’s Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund. Each awarded grant aims to close the skills gap, increase access to well-paying jobs for unemployed and underemployed residents, and strengthen productivity and workforce needs among employers in regions throughout Massachusetts.

Workforce Success grants fund job training and job placement for untapped talent and upskilling programs for incumbent workers. Among the 16 awarded grants, seven will incorporate English for speakers of other languages (ESOL) in planned job training — an effort to reduce employment barriers such as language that some job seekers experience.

“Workforce Success Grants give residents the opportunity to gain new skills and launch careers in high-demand fields,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “These programs help people earn good wages, build long-term career paths, and connect directly with employers who need their talents.”

Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Lauren Jones made the announcement at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) in Springfield. STCC will receive $500,000 to provide training and placement services, including ESOL training, to 120 unemployed and underemployed participants for IT support specialist, help desk analyst, hardware technician, computer repair technician, network technician, network administrator, cybersecurity technician, and cybersecurity analyst roles. They will partner with Springfield Public Schools, Baystate Health, Holyoke Public Schools, Springfield Technical Community College, the Center for Human Development, the city of Holyoke, and Entre Technologies.

“Continued investment by the Healey-Driscoll administration in high-demands sectors like IT and cybersecurity is tremendous,” STCC President John Cook said. “As technology continues to impact every facet of our lives, institutional support and innovation that brings a focus to skill building and credential attainment makes a big difference for families and communities.”

The other Western Mass. grant is $500,000 to the Franklin Hampshire Employment and Training Consortium in Greenfield, to provide training and placement services to 50 unemployed and underemployed participants for patient representative, receptionist, and medical secretary roles. They will partner with Community Health Center of Franklin County, Hilltown Community Health Center, and Valley Medical Group.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts (JAWM) is seeking sponsors and volunteers for its 20th Annual Stock Market Challenge, taking place on Tuesday, Nov. 18 at Western New England University in Springfield. This fast-paced Wall Street simulation offers student teams the chance to compete in an exciting, hands-on competition, building skills and experience they can carry into their futures. For sponsors, the event offers high-visibility recognition, a way to connect with the community, and the chance to inspire and support the next generation of financially savvy leaders.

“This is a special year for us, marking two decades of bringing the thrill of the stock market to life for local students,” said Amie Miarecki, JAWM president. “It’s so much fun to see how engaged and competitive the students are. The event is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and volunteers to make a lasting impact while having a great time themselves.”

During the simulation, which runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., teams made up of 350 middle and high school students are each ‘given’ $1 million to invest in more than 50 fictitious stocks. With trading days lasting just 60 seconds, the goal is to build the highest portfolio net worth in a frantic 60 days.

Students walk away not only with a deeper understanding of the stock market and the importance of teamwork, but also greater awareness of financial services and career opportunities in the field. By introducing students to concepts of investing and financial decision making early, the event helps cultivate a talent pipeline of young people who are better prepared to pursue careers in finance, business, and related industries.

In the evening, the competition heats up for the adults, with dinner followed by the opening bell at 6 p.m., when corporate sponsors and college teams put their trading skills to the test.

“The adults have as much fun as the students, and it makes for a fantastic team-building experience,” Miarecki said. “We offer sponsorship opportunities starting at $250 and welcome companies across the region to get involved.”

For more information about the JAWM Stock Market Challenge, sponsorships, and volunteering, visit jawm.org/stock-market-competition.

Daily News

STOCKBRIDGE — The Stockbridge Halloween Parade and Pumpkin Walk will take place on Friday, Oct. 24 for area children.

Marchers will meet at the corner of Main and Pine streets at 6 p.m. and march up Main Street to the front lawn of the Stockbridge Library for cider and donuts, as well as a pumpkin walk-about with lighted pumpkins carved by local businesses and area children. A fire truck will be stationed for discovery, and there will be a sheep petting pen on the front lawn. A Halloween story time will take place at 6:30 p.m., as well as drop-in Halloween crafts inside the library from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

Children and businesses interested in showcasing a jack-o-lantern of their own should drop them off at the library any time before 5:30 p.m. The library staff will light them and provide candles, and the pumpkins can be taken home at the end of the evening. In case of rain, the parade will be canceled, and activities will take place in the library.

These events are sponsored by the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce, Stockbridge Library, the Stockbridge Police and Fire departments, Stockbridge Coffee & Tea, and Prado de Lana Sheep.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (MLKFS) announced the recipients of the 2025 Social Justice Impact Awards, honoring individuals and organizations whose work embodies the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18 at noon at Twin Hills Country Club, celebrating changemakers who uplift equity, justice, and community transformation.

This year’s theme, inspired by King’s enduring words — “We are determined to work and fight until justice runs down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream”— led the nonprofit to recognize those who lead with courage and compassion. This year’s 2025 Social Justice Impact Award honorees represent the spirit of social justice across sectors, from education and health to arts, enterprise, and civic engagement. They are:

• Rev. Barbara Headley, Zion Community Baptist Church: Faith-Based Leadership

• Justin Haynes, JUS10H.com: Impact Through Enterprise

• Kali Green, Springfield Cultural Partnership: Arts and Cultural Advocacy

• Sheldon Smith, Make-It Springfield: Architect of Equity and Expression

• Rev. Terrlyn Curry Avery, Healing Racism Institute of Pioneer Valley, Race Relations Leadership

• Tyonne Hinson, Baystate Health: Health Equity Advocacy

• Andrew Morehouse and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts team: Civic Engagement Champions

• Dawn DiStefano, Square One: Equity in Education

• Icie Jones, retired, real estate and housing: Trailblazer Lifetime Achievement

• Maddy Landrau, MassMutual: Equity in Economic Development

The featured keynote speaker is author and educator Stefan Bradley, the Charles Hamilton Houston 1915 Professor of Black Studies and History at Amherst College. Bradley’s major works include his most recent book, If We Don’t Get It: A People’s History of Ferguson. He has appeared on C-SPAN Book TV, NPR, PRI, as well as in documentaries on the Oprah Winfrey Network and the History Channel. An educator at heart, Bradley’s life ambition is to personally teach, mentor, and inspire the young people who change the world for the better.

The afternoon will feature powerful storytelling and community celebration in support of the mission at Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services to lead with hope and drive action, shaping futures and igniting transformation across cultures and generations. This includes awardee celebrations; immersive live art with LESN101, a Lao American visual artist; a performance by Vanessa Ford; a book signing with Bradley and his newest book (books provided by local bookseller Olive Tree Books-n-Voices); a raffle of exclusive experiences; and live music with MLKFS youth and local musicians.

Click here to register or learn more. For inquiries or sponsorship and ad opportunities still available, email Claudia Pazmany at [email protected].

Daily News

DARTMOUTH — On Oct. 6, the Healey-Driscoll administration celebrated the launch of Go Higher, a new brand and awareness campaign designed to inspire more students to go to college by highlighting Gov. Maura Healey’s efforts to make community college free and expand financial aid at public four-year colleges and universities.

Secretary of Education Patrick Tutwiler and Higher Education Commissioner Noe Ortega visited UMass Dartmouth to speak with students, educators, and community leaders on how the state’s investments and multitude of initiatives are breaking down barriers and opening more doors to higher education across Massachusetts.

“Massachusetts is leading the way in proving that higher education can be both excellent and affordable,” Healey said. “Through Go Higher and the work of the ACARE Council, we are showing students and families that college is within reach and that we are committed to success for every student and their families.”

The event also coincides with the opening of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2026-27 post-secondary academic year. This federal form is required for students to be eligible for certain federal and state financial aid, including free community college and opportunities to attend the state’s public four-year universities without paying tuition and fees.

Certain eligible students who cannot submit a FAFSA may submit a Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) to apply for state financial aid. Students and families can learn more about FAFSA/MASFA by visiting mass.gov/financialaid.

“The Go Higher campaign is a great way to let students and families know about all the financial aid support that is available to make public higher education more affordable,” UMass President Marty Meehan said. “We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll administration for their expansion of the MassGrant Plus program, which has bolstered our affordability initiatives at UMass. We’ve worked hard to ensure a world-class UMass education remains affordable and accessible.”

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Visitors to Holyoke Community College (HCC) on Friday, Oct. 24 can expect to see witches, ghouls, ghosts, and an assortment of characters from popular children’s movies, games, books, and TV shows as the college celebrates Halloween with its eighth annual Trunk or Treat event.

Every year, the event draws thousands of children and their parents to the HCC campus for a fun, safe, and early Halloween celebration as dozens of HCC departments, programs, and student clubs, as well as community groups and area businesses, decorate their cars and trucks with a wide assortment of themes.

Trunk or Treat runs from 5 to 7 p.m. in Parking Lot M by the Bartley Center for Athletics and Recreation on the main HCC campus, 303 Homestead Ave.

Last year’s trunk themes included Charlotte’s Web, The Wizard of Oz, Minions, mummies, Dr. Seuss, pirates, enchanted forest, haunted vet clinic, aliens, Ratatouille, monsters, Jurassic Park, Shrek, the zoo, STEM, Fairly Odd Parents, castles, Wednesday Addams, spiders, skeletons, scarecrows, witches, sharks, and the Justice League.

Prizes are awarded to vehicle sponsors in various categories, including best executed theme, scariest trunk, best costumes, and most original. Each vehicle will hand out free Halloween treats and also have non-food items for children with dietary restrictions.

Trunk or Treat at HCC started in 2017 as an alternative to traditional trick-or-treating on Halloween night. Rather than going door to door seeking Halloween treats, children go ‘trunk to trunk’ to collect their candy, visiting cars decorated with seasonal themes and familiar stories and characters.

The event is free and open to the public and will be held outdoors, rain or shine. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

To sponsor a vehicle, email Student Engagement at [email protected] no later than Monday, Oct. 20.