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Museums10 Summit

May 16: Arts educator Patty Bode will discuss ways museums can engage with their communities and broaden their audiences in the 21st century, in a keynote address at the fourth annual summit of Valley-based collaborative Museums10. Bode’s talk, “Museums, Engagement, and Creating Social Change,” will take place at 4 p.m. at the Yiddish Book Center at 1021 West St. in Amherst. It is free and open to the public. Bode has decades of experience working with museums through hands-on practice as an educator in urban schools, community arts programs, and teacher education, with a particular emphasis on collaborating with marginalized communities. In her address, she will discuss why access to and participation in museum life is a civil and human right in our democratic society. She will also offer case studies that demonstrate ways museums have been successful in engaging a wide range of audiences across race, social class, language, sexual orientation, and religion. Currently a teacher at Springfield Conservatory of the Arts, a magnet public school, Bode is the former director of Art Education for Tufts University in affiliation with the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, and was a visiting associate professor at Ohio State University’s Department of Arts Administration, Education and Policy. For more information, visit fivecolleges.edu and click ‘events.’ Museums10 is a collaboration of seven campus and three campus-affiliated museums that work together to celebrate the collections and promote the programs of its member museums to local, regional, and national visitors. Museums10 is facilitated by Five Colleges.

Mental Health and Wellness Fair

May 18: In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, Clinical & Support Options Inc. (CSO) will host its 14th annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair at the Energy Park in Greenfield from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring CSO’s Green River House and Quabbin House Clubhouse members, the fair will be an afternoon of music, singing, poetry, and testimonials by members to highlight mental-health illness, wellness, and recovery. The fair started in 2002 in an effort to bring awareness and information to the community about mental-health illness and recovery. The event is an opportunity to dispel the stigma around mental-health illness, encourage people to seek support, and spotlight agencies available to assist. This year, the theme is “Mental Health Matters.” In addition to local community providers sharing information, there will be live music, a food vendor, and raffles, and WHAI will be on site doing a live broadcast. For more information, call the Green River House at (413) 772-2181.

Ad Club Creative Awards

May 19: Ad agencies, design firms, marketing departments, and other members of the Western Mass. and Northern Conn. creative community have submitted work for the Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts’ Creative Awards, the club’s annual recognition of creative excellence. Each year, they come together to celebrate the region’s best creative work with a festive evening of camaraderie. This year’s event — titled “Make. Believe.” — will be held at Open Square in Holyoke. The judges for this year’s Creative Awards include Kevin Grady, global head of design and communication for brand strategy firm Siegel + Gale, and Nikita Prokhorov, a freelance designer, author, and professor based in Brooklyn, N.Y. “We were really fortunate to get two judges who are at the top of their field,” said Lynn Saunders, co-chair of the Ad Club’s Creative Awards. “They held the work to a very high standard.” On May 19, the region’s creatives and guests will convene to find out which works Grady and Prokhorov deemed worthy, and to set the bar for the upcoming year of local advertising and communications. The event will feature hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, live music, a champagne toast to the local creative community, and the opportunity to rub shoulders with, and celebrate with, colleagues whose creative work will be on display. Tickets are $35 for members, $50 for non-members, and $20 for students. For more information about the 2016 Creative Awards or to purchase tickets, go to adclubwm.org or call (413) 736- 2582. This year’s Creative Awards sponsors include Andrew Associates, BusinessWest, Cecco – the Design Office of David Cecchi, Common Media, 423 Motion Inc., Marcus Printing, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Milltown Productions, Six-Point Creative Works Inc., Stephanie Craig Photography, TSM Design, and WWLP-22News.

IBS Explores Value of IT

May 20: Innovative Business Systems will explore the ways IT can return more value to organizations. The lunch-and-learn session will take place at 163 Northampton St., Easthampton, from noon to 2 p.m. Ideally, every IT dollar spent should provide a return by helping to increase revenues, decrease costs, or improve efficiencies. Over lunch, participants will learn many value-driven best practices, while demonstrating how IBS best adds value through its client engagements. Topics will include how the use of automation can reduce support costs due to economies of scale, how providing streamlined access to support can improve efficiencies, what skills are required and how to staff the IT function within an organization, and disciplined project selection, management, and budgeting best practices. An open-discussion IT roundtable will be faciliated by IBS immediately following the lunch-and-learn session. To register online, visit www.for-ibs.com/news/simple-registration-form.

Storyteller Series on Women in History

May 22, June 5, June 26: Wistariahurst will host artist Tammy Denease in a series of historical storytelling performances. At each of the Sunday sessions, Denease will bring to life a woman from the past. The women featured in the series are Clo Pratt, born into slavery but self-employed after being freed; local hero Elizabeth “Mum Bett” Freeman, who successfully sued Col. Ashley for her freedom in 1781; and Bessie Coleman, “First Negro Aviatrix.” The family-friendly performances will take place in the Belle Skinner Music room at 3 p.m. on each of the days, and are free and open to the public of all ages. This series is supported in part by a grant from the Holyoke Local Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, and the New England States Touring program of the New England Foundation for the Arts, made possible with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts Regional Touring Program and the six New England state arts agencies. Educational programming at Wistariahurst is supported by Historic Holyoke at Wistariahurst.

Garden Party

June 5: The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens will host a Garden Party fund-raiser from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy live music, appetizers, and drinks. Representatives from the Western Mass. Master Gardeners Assoc. will speak about the significance and meaning of herbs and flowers. There will also be a silent auction of artist-designed watering cans. The cost is $35 per person, and all funds raised will change the life of a grieving child. For more information, contact Shelly Bathe Lenn, coordinator at the Garden, at (413) 582-5312 or [email protected].

Northampton Garden Tour

June 11: Come visit eight gardens on display for the 2016 Northampton Garden Tour, a fund-raiser for Friends of Forbes Library Inc. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., rain or shine. The Garden Tour aims to inspire and educate everyday gardeners with plantings in a variety of appealing and unique landscaping styles and creative use of hardscape. In contrast to the 2015 tour that was localized in the center of Northampton, this year’s tour takes participants on a scenic and varied 18-mile route to the outer reaches of the community. Tickets come with directions to this self-guided tour of gardens within easy driving distance of the library. There is no obvious, easiest route, but suggestions will be available to make the tour both safe and expedient. At each garden, there are descriptions of the plantings, and garden guides will be on hand to answer questions. The terrain of this year’s tour broadly circles Northampton, making gardens accessible by car or a bicycle ride for the recreational peddler comfortable with 20-plus miles. Tickets for the tour are $15 in advance at Forbes Library, Bay State Perennial Farm, Cooper’s Corner, Hadley Garden Center, North Country Landscapes, and State Street Fruit Store. The cost is $20 on the day of the tour at the library only. The Garden Tour also includes a raffle to win organic compost, gift certificates, garden supplies, a landscape consultation, and more. Raffle tickets are available at Forbes Library through the day before the tour as well as at one of the gardens on the day of the tour. All event proceeds benefit Friends of Forbes Library to support programs, events, and projects for the library that could not otherwise be funded. For details: on the organization, visit www.forbeslibrary.org. For more information about the Garden Tour, call Lyn Heady at (413) 584-7041.

‘Leverage Technology to Do More with Less’

June 15: Comcast Business will present “How to Leverage Technology to Do More With Less,” part of the BusinessWest/HCN Lecture Series, at the Lyman & Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History, 21 Edward St., Springfield. Registration will begin at 7:15 a.m., followed by breakfast and a panel discussion from 7:30 to 9 a.m. The panelists — influential minds in the IT field — will discuss issues that every business IT department is being forced to deal with, including rising demands to make changes to existing systems, increasing efficiency and improving security, and how budget restrictions impact IT. Panelists include Michael Feld, CEO, VertitechIT, and interim CTO, Baystate Health and Lancaster General Hospital; Frank Vincentelli, chief technology officer, Integrated IT Solutions; and Patrick Streck, director, IT Services, Baystate Health / Information & Technology. Admission is free, but pre-registration is required by June 7. Register online HERE, or call (413) 781-8600 for more information.

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. Their stories were told in the pages of the April 18 issue. The winner of the second annual Continuing Excellence Award, honoring a past 40 Under Forty honoree who has continued to build on his or her success, will also be revealed at the gala. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, United Bank, and the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield.

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‘Wolf to Woof’

Through May 12: In today’s society, dogs enhance the lives of millions of people in countless ways, but they are also some of our oldest friends. Ancient clues like cave paintings and burials reveal that dogs and people have lived together for thousands of years. But why have humans formed such close relationships with dogs, and not cows or chickens? “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is the largest and most comprehensive traveling exhibition ever created on the history, biology, and evolution of dogs. The exhibit, on view at the Springfield Science Museum through May 12, attempts to sniff out the facts on dogs and explore what makes the human/dog relationship so unique. It uses the familiarity and love of these four-legged friends to explore science and biological concepts. The exhibit has four themed sections including multi-media displays, artifacts, photo murals, and dioramas of taxidermied wild canines and sculpted modern dog breeds. Additionally, interactive, hands-on components demonstrate key exhibit concepts. For example, visitors can enter a ‘howling area’ and guess what dogs are saying, test their nose against a dog’s great sense of smell, and examine fossil and genetic evidence of how modern-day dogs are descended from wolves. “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is sponsored by United Bank. MassMutual is the 2015-16 Premier Sponsor of the Springfield Museums.

Valley Gives Day

May 3: Nearly 500 community organizations will participate in the Pioneer Valley’s 24-hour e-philanthropy event, Valley Gives — the fourth year for the event, but the first time it is being held in the spring. Valley Gives is hosted by the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts. Valley Gives will take place from 12 a.m. to 11:59 p.m. Participating community organizations span the Pioneer Valley and are eligible if their work is focused on Franklin, Hampden, or Hampshire county. Organizations include nonprofits, schools and educational institutions, places of worship/religious organizations, and local community groups that can be fiscally sponsored by nonprofit organizations. Since Valley Gives began in December 2012, $5.8 million has been raised from more than 24,000 donors in support of 559 nonprofits that are doing good work in every corner of the Pioneer Valley. With nearly 500 organizations signed on to participate this May, Valley Gives is expected to add substantially to those numbers again this year.

Kentucky Derby Day

May 7: Starting at 4:30 p.m., the Colony Club in Springfield will the setting for hats, horses and hors d’oeuvres to celebrate the 142nd annual Kentucky Derby. Presented by The Gaudreau Group, with support from Northeast IT, as well as the Colony Club and host Jeffrey Lomma, the event will raise much-needed funds for Square One’s programs and services. Tickets are $35 and include big screen monitors to enjoy the race, hearty hors d’oeuvres, and a complimentary mint julep. Prizes will be awarded for the best Derby attire. Tickets may be purchased via Eventbrite or by contacting Heather at Inspired Marketing at (413) 303-0101.

‘Creating a Western Massachusetts Renaissance’

May 11: The Springfield Regional Chamber, in partnership with the Western Mass. Economic Development Council (EDC), will present a panel discussion, “Creating a Western Massachusetts Renaissance,” from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield, sponsored by People’s United Bank. Panelists will discuss the Massachusetts economy and how communities across the Commonwealth can work together to create a broader and more robust economy. Panelists will also outline local economic-development initiatives at work in Western Mass. and how the region can capitalize on its existing assets and develop its growth engines, and the important role the healthcare sector plays in developing centers of excellence for future growth. Panelists will include John Traynor, executive vice president and chief investment officer at People’s United Bank; Rick Sullivan, EDC president; and Dr. Mark Keroack, president and CEO of Baystate Health, and the discussion will be moderated by David Hobert, the bank’s regional president. Reservations for the breakfast event are $35 and may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or by e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

Community Enterprises 40th-Anniversary Luncheon

May 12: Richard Venne, president and CEO, invites the public to join Community Enterprises Inc. in celebrating 40 years of empowering individuals with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive in the community. A luncheon will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $50 per person, a reserved table for eight is $400, and tickets for clients and staff of Community Enterprise are $30. For more information about tickets, sponsoring the event, or placing an ad in the program, e-mail Krystle Bernier at [email protected] or call (413) 584-1460, ext. 120. Community Enterprises is a human-service organization that provides employment, education, housing supports, and day supports for people with disabilities. Headquartered in Northampton, it maintains 27 service locations in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, and Kentucky. Massachusetts offices include Gloucester, Greenfield, Holyoke, Pittsfield, Plymouth, Salem, Somerville, Springfield, Wakefield, and Worcester.

‘Maximize Your Website for Business Growth’

May 13, 20, 27: MarketingWorks, a series of educational programs for business owners, marketing professionals, and entrepreneurs hosted by Stevens 470 in Westfield, announced an upcoming program called “Maximize Your Website for Business Growth.” It meets weekly for three Friday mornings, May 13, 20, and 27. Customers, prospects, and associates make an immediate assessment of a business based on the content of its website. Participants in this group program will evaluate their current website and clarify the steps needed to make it the company’s most valuable marketing channel. For program details, visit www.stevens470.com/educational-programs.html or call Tina Stevens at (413) 568-2660.

Youth Mental-health First-aid Training

May 13, 20: Funded by a three-year grant by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) through the White House’s “Now is The Time” initiative, Clinical & Support Options Inc. is now offering free youth mental-health first-aid trainings to the community. The free, two-day training will be held at CSO’s administrative offices in Northampton; attendance both days is required. Youth mental-health first aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis. The training is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental-health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a five-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including ADHD), and eating disorders. Identified on SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices, the training helps the public better identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses. Registration is required; e-mail [email protected] for a registration form. CSO is also available to bring this training on site to local agencies and businesses that wish to have a group of people trained for free. For more information on bringing this training to your agency or business, contact Allison Garriss, director, Business Development and Projects at CSO, at (413) 773-1314, ext. 5502 or [email protected].

‘Grieving the Death of a Child’ Workshop

May 14: The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens announced a free workshop, “Grieving the Death of a Child,” from 12:30 to 4 p.m. The workshop is open to adult parents and caregivers who have experienced the death of a child. The workshop will include a screening of the video “Helping Parents Grieve: Finding New Life After the Death of a Child,” which was produced by Paraclete Press and features real stories about families who have lost a child. The video has five parts, including knowing you are not alone, loss of hopes and dreams, death of a baby, families, and honoring and remembering. Following each section there will be a break for discussion and an activity. Parents and caregivers who have experienced the death of a child are welcome, and there are no limits on how, where, or when the child died. The workshop is for appropriate for adults only and is open to the public. It will be held at the Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, 168 Industrial Dr., Northampton. The event is free, but registration is required. For more information, contact Shelly Bathe Lenn, coordinator at the Garden, at (413) 582 5312, or [email protected].

Mental Health and Wellness Fair

May 18: In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, Clinical & Support Options Inc. (CSO) will host its 14th annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair at the Energy Park in Greenfield from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring CSO’s Green River House and Quabbin House Clubhouse members, the fair will be an afternoon of music, singing, poetry, and testimonials by members to highlight mental-health illness, wellness, and recovery. The fair started in 2002 in an effort to bring awareness and information to the community about mental-health illness and recovery. The event is an opportunity to dispel the stigma around mental-health illness, encourage people to seek support, and spotlight agencies available to assist. This year, the theme is “Mental Health Matters.” Local mental-health and wellness providers are welcome to present their materials and programming for free by registering for a table by calling the Green River House at (413) 772-2181. In addition to local community providers sharing information, there will be live music, a food vendor, and raffles, and WHAI will be on site doing a live broadcast. For questions or more information on how to be a part of this event, call the Green River House at (413) 772-2181.

‘Women Lead Change’

May 23: The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts (WFWM) will host “Women Lead Change,” a celebration of the Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact (LIPPI) class of 2016, at the Log Cabin in Holyoke from 6 to 8 p.m. The event will include remarks from Mass. Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, and a keynote address from Julie Chavez Rodriguez, special assistant to the president and senior deputy director of Public Engagement at the White House. WFWM will acknowledge the lieutenant governor as well as Rodriguez with a “She Changes the World” award presented to honor exceptional contribution to social change, creating economic and social equity for women and girls. More than 300 participants are expected to attend the annual celebration of graduates of the Women’s Fund LIPPI program. LIPPI is the only program of its kind in Massachusetts. Through 11 sessions over eight months, the program is designed to respond to the shortage of women stepping into leadership at all levels. LIPPI gives women the tools and confidence they need to become more involved as civic leaders in their communities and to impact policy on the local, state, and national levels. The event is open to the public with online registration at www.womensfund.net. The current graduating LIPPI Cohort  represents 60% women of color, and LIPPI graduates also embody a wide spectrum of backgrounds, ethnic groups, and ages with ranges from 18 to 60. They represent the entire state of Massachusetts, from the Berkshires to Boston-area counties. Together, graduates form a strong cohort of like-minded women who support each other when they run for office, meet with policy makers, form coalitions, and get-out-the-vote efforts. The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts (WFWM) is a public foundation that invests in local women and girls through strategic grant-making and leadership development. Since 1997 the Women’s Fund has awarded more than $2 million in grants to over 100 organizations in Western Mass.

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. An independent panel of judges has chosen the winners, and their stories were told in the April 18 issue. This is a sell-out event, and only a limited number of standing-room-only tickets remain. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, United Bank, and the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield. For more information, call (413) 781-8600s, ext. 100.

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‘Wolf to Woof’ Exhibit

Through May 12: In today’s society, dogs enhance the lives of millions of people in countless ways, but they are also some of our oldest friends. Ancient clues like cave paintings and burials reveal that dogs and people have lived together for thousands of years. But why have humans formed such close relationships with dogs, and not cows or chickens? “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is the largest and most comprehensive traveling exhibition ever created on the history, biology, and evolution of dogs. The exhibit, on view at the Springfield Science Museum through May 12, attempts to sniff out the facts on dogs and explore what makes the human/dog relationship so unique. It uses the familiarity and love of these four-legged friends to explore science and biological concepts. The exhibit has four themed sections including multi-media displays, artifacts, photo murals, and dioramas of taxidermied wild canines and sculpted modern dog breeds. Additionally, interactive, hands-on components demonstrate key exhibit concepts. For example, visitors can enter a ‘howling area’ and guess what dogs are saying, test their nose against a dog’s great sense of smell, and examine fossil and genetic evidence of how modern-day dogs are descended from wolves.

‘125 Years Of Memories’ at Academy of Music

April 21: The Academy of Music Theatre will host a “125 Years of Memories” benefit at 6:30 p.m. in the theater. In the late 19th century, Edward H.R. Lyman, a philanthropist and Northampton native, had a vision for a new venue for culture and theater in his hometown. On May 23, 1891, the 800-seat Academy of Music Theatre opened its doors to the public for the first time, and it quickly became a favorite stop on tours of leading troupes and big-name performers. Today, the 800-seat Academy of Music has been renovated and reclaimed as a venue for live theater, as well as dance, film, music, and performing-arts education. The “125 Years of Memories” benefit will begin with a cash bar reception in the lobby, where guests will mingle and enjoy hors d’oeuvres, craft beer, and wine. In addition, silent-auction items donated by local businesses and artists will be on display. At 6:30 p.m., guests will move into the theater for a brief program, paying tribute to the Academy through the decades. Following the production, attendees will be invited onstage for the party, with musical accompaniment by jazz pianist Jerry Noble, appetizers from River Valley Market, craft beer, and wine provided by Black Birch Vineyard. Tickets for the event are $50, and can be purchased online at www.aomtheatre.com. For those who prefer to pay by check, tickets are available at the Academy of Music Theatre box office, Tuesday through Friday, from 3 to 6 p.m. Any questions can be directed to Development Coordinator Kathryn Slater at (413) 584-9032, ext. 101, or [email protected].

Spring Sip & Shop

April 28: The Arbors at Chicopee will host a Spring Sip & Shop event in honor of Mother’s Day on Thursday, April 28 from 4 to 8 p.m. at 929 Memorial Dr. More than 15 vendors will gather and display their products for sale. Items include scarves, jewelry, totes, bags, makeup, homemade lotions and soaps, and much more. The event is sponsored by Tastefully Simple, and all proceeds will go toward the Alzheimer’s Assoc. The event will feature a silent auction, raffle, passed hors d’ouvres, and complimentary sangria. The suggested donation upon admission is $5. RSVP by calling Noelle at (413) 593-0088 or e-mailing [email protected]. Walk-ins are welcome.

‘A Night of Laughter’

April 30: Smith & Wesson will host its annual live comedy show, “A Night of Laughter,” to support two local children’s charities, Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Ronald McDonald House. The event will be held at the Cedars Banquet Facility, 419 Island Pond Road in Springfield. The show will feature two comedians, Chris Zito and Tony V. Zito is a mainstay of the Boston comedy scene and made appearances on Comedy Central, USA, A&E, and NESN. He has been heard on New England radio for more than 20 years, and currently “Zito and Kera” can be heard on weekday mornings on Mix 93.1. Tony V started his comedy career in 1982 in Boston. In 1986, he was named “Funniest Person in Massachusetts” by Showtime. He has also appeared on HBO, A&E, Comedy Central, and MTV. His big-screen performances include State and Main, Celtic Pride, Housesitter, One Crazy Summer, and Shakes the Clown. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the comedy will begin at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include an evening of laughs, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, raffles, and more. Tickets are now available at eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Elaine Stellato at (413) 747-3371 or [email protected].

Community Enterprises 40-Year Luncheon

May 12: Richard Venne, president and CEO, invites the public to join Community Enterprises Inc. in celebrating 40 years of empowering individuals with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive in the community. A luncheon will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $50 per person, a reserved table for eight is $400, and tickets for clients and staff of Community Enterprise are $30. For more information about tickets, sponsoring the event, or placing an ad in the program, e-mail Krystle Bernier at [email protected] or call (413) 584-1460, ext. 120.

‘Maximize Your Website for Business Growth’

May 13, 20, 27: MarketingWorks, a series of educational programs for business owners, marketing professionals, and entrepreneurs hosted by Stevens 470 in Westfield, announced an upcoming program called “Maximize Your Website for Business Growth.” It meets weekly for three Friday mornings, May 13, 20, and 27. Customers, prospects, and associates make an immediate assessment of a business based on the content of its website. Participants in this group program will evaluate their current website and clarify the steps needed to make it the company’s most valuable marketing channel. For program details, visit www.stevens470.com/educational-programs.html or call Tina Stevens at (413) 568-2660.

Youth Mental-health First-aid Training

May 13, 20: Funded by a three-year grant by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) through the White House’s “Now is The Time” initiative, Clinical & Support Options Inc. is now offering free youth mental-health first-aid trainings to the community. The free, two-day training will be held at CSO’s administrative offices in Northampton; attendance both days is required. Youth mental-health first aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis. The training is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental-health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a five-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including ADHD), and eating disorders. Registration is required; e-mail [email protected] for a registration form. CSO is also available to bring this training on site to local agencies and businesses that wish to have a group of people trained for free. For more information on bringing this training to your agency or business, contact Allison Garriss, director, Business Development and Projects at Clinical & Support Options, at (413) 773-1314, ext. 5502 or [email protected].

‘Grieving the Death of a Child’ Workshop

May 14: The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens announced a free workshop, “Grieving the Death of a Child,” from 12:30 to 4 p.m. The workshop is open to adult parents and caregivers who have experienced the death of a child. The workshop will include a screening of the video “Helping Parents Grieve: Finding New Life After the Death of a Child,” which was produced by Paraclete Press and features real stories about families who have lost a child. The video has five parts, including knowing you are not alone, loss of hopes and dreams, death of a baby, families, and honoring and remembering. Following each section there will be a break for discussion and an activity. Parents and caregivers who have experienced the death of a child are welcome, and there are no limits on how, where, or when the child died. The workshop is for appropriate for adults only and is open to the public. It will be held at the Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice, 168 Industrial Dr., Northampton. The event is free, but registration is required. For more information, contact Shelly Bathe Lenn, coordinator at the Garden, at (413) 582 5312, or [email protected].

Mental Health and Wellness Fair

May 18: In celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month, Clinical & Support Options Inc. (CSO) will host its 14th annual Mental Health and Wellness Fair at the Energy Park in Greenfield from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Featuring CSO’s Green River House and Quabbin House Clubhouse members, the fair will be an afternoon of music, singing, poetry, and testimonials by members to highlight mental-health illness, wellness, and recovery. The fair started in 2002 in an effort to bring awareness and information to the community about mental-health illness and recovery. The event is an opportunity to dispel the stigma around mental-health illness, encourage people to seek support, and spotlight agencies available to assist. This year, the theme is “Mental Health Matters.” Local mental-health and wellness providers are welcome to present their materials and programming for free by registering for a table by calling the Green River House at (413) 772-2181. In addition to local community providers sharing information, there will be live music, a food vendor, and raffles, and WHAI will be on site doing a live broadcast. For more information, call the Green River House at (413) 772-2181.

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. An independent panel of judges has chosen the winners, and their stories are told in the pages of this issue. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual (presenting sponsor), Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsor), EMA Dental, Health New England, the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack P.C., United Bank, and the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield.

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‘Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS’

April 9: Patrick Donnelly, 2015-17 poet laureate of Northampton, will host “Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS,” a benefit reading in support of A Positive Place (formerly AIDS Care/Hampshire County), a nonprofit organization providing a wide array of services for people with HIV in Hampshire and surrounding counties. The event will be held at 3 p.m. at the Paradise Room, Conference Center, Smith College, 51 College Lane, Northampton. The Northampton Council for the Arts and the Poetry Center at Smith College are co-sponsors of the benefit. Tickets for the event are $20 and may be purchased online at poetsforlife.brownpapertickets.com, or by phone at (800) 838-3006, ext. 1, or at the door at the event. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit A Positive Place. Those unable to attend the event can designate a tax-deductible donation through poetsforlife.brownpapertickets.com to make it possible for one of A Positive Place’s clients to attend. “In the 35 years since AIDS began, there has been not only a medical and social-service response to preventing and treating the disease, but there has also been a response from artists of all kinds, mourning the losses and celebrating the victories,” Donnelly said. “Specifically, American poets have created an entire literature of AIDS, leaving for the future an important record of this time.” Poets for Life will feature readings by award-winning poets Eduardo C. Corral, Patrick Donnelly, Michael Klein, and Joan Larkin, who will read not only from their own poetry about the epidemic, but from the work of other notable poets, living and dead. Singer-songwriter Laura Wetzler will also perform. Since 1991, A Positive Place has been providing comprehensive, confidential case management and health-related support services, filling life-saving needs for people living with HIV/AIDS in the county. Anyone living with HIV or AIDS is eligible for services regardless of level of need, health status, or ability to pay. Services are free to people living with HIV.

Not Just Business as Usual

April 14: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event, a networking event for business leaders in Western Mass., will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The event, now in its seventh year, is a celebration of innovative thinking giving participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and keynote speakers to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This year, NJBAU will host a discussion of diversity in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields with panelists Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs; Laurie Leshin, president of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; and Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations for Baystate Health. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $175 each, and sponsorships begin at $2,500 for a table for 10. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC’s director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

Spring Fling at Eastworks

April 17: Eastworks on Pleasant Street in Easthampton will play host to a Spring Fling vendor event that will benefit the Easthampton Community Center food pantry. The event will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 2 p.m. The public is invited to attend. Participating vendors currently include How-Charming, Magnabilities, Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, Pure Romance, Rodan & Fields, Scentsy, Waldorf Natural Gifts – Hedge Hog Farms, Young Living Essential Oils, and Younique, with more vendors expected to be added. For more information about Spring Fling, e-mail Mary Ann at [email protected].

Spring Sip & Shop

April 28: The Arbors at Chicopee will host a Spring Sip & Shop event in honor of Mother’s Day on Thursday, April 28 from 4 to 8 p.m. at 929 Memorial Dr. More than 15 vendors will gather and display their products for sale. Items include scarves, jewelry, totes, bags, makeup, homemade lotions and soaps, and much more. The event is sponsored by Tastefully Simple, and all proceeds will go toward the Alzheimer’s Assoc. The event will feature a silent auction, raffle, passed hors d’ouvres, and complimentary sangria. The suggested donation upon admission is $5. RSVP by calling Noelle at (413) 593-0088 or e-mailing [email protected]. Walk-ins are welcome.

‘A Night of Laughter’

April 30: Smith & Wesson will host its annual live comedy show, “A Night of Laughter,” to support two local children’s charities, Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Ronald McDonald House. The event will be held at the Cedars Banquet Facility, 419 Island Pond Road in Springfield. The show will feature two comedians, Chris Zito and Tony V. Zito is a mainstay of the Boston comedy scene and made appearances on Comedy Central, USA, A&E, and NESN. He has been heard on New England radio for more than 20 years, and currently “Zito and Kera” can be heard on weekday mornings on Mix 93.1. Tony V started his comedy career in 1982 in Boston. In 1986, he was named “Funniest Person in Massachusetts” by Showtime. He has also appeared on HBO, A&E, Comedy Central, and MTV. His big-screen performances include State and Main, Celtic Pride, Housesitter, One Crazy Summer, and Shakes the Clown. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m., and the comedy will begin at 7:15 p.m. Tickets are $35 per person and include an evening of laughs, hot and cold hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, raffles, and more. Tickets are now available at eventbrite.com. For more information, contact Elaine Stellato at (413) 747-3371 or [email protected].

Walk of Champions

May 1: The community is invited to come together at the Quabbin Reservoir to mark the 11th annual Walk of Champions to benefit the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware. Since its inception, the Walk of Champions has raised more than $662,000. All funds raised remain local to support those cared for in the Baystate Health Eastern Region at Baystate Medical Center’s Mary Lane Satellite Unit and for things such as family-support counseling, educational outreach, pastoral care, medications, state-of-the-art equipment, and the Healing Garden located in the courtyard of the hospital. Pledge forms, fund-raising resources, giving opportunities, and more are available at www.baystatehealth.org/woc for businesses, community organizations, and individuals who wish to participate.

Community Enterprises Anniversary Luncheon

May 12: Richard Venne, president and CEO, invites the public to join Community Enterprises Inc. in celebrating 40 years of empowering individuals with disabilities to live, learn, work, and thrive in the community. A luncheon will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Individual tickets are $50 per person, a reserved table for eight is $400, and tickets for clients and staff of Community Enterprise are $30. For more information about tickets, sponsoring the event, or placing an ad in the program, e-mail Krystle Bernier at [email protected] or call (413) 584-1460, ext. 120. Community Enterprises is a human-service organization that provides employment, education, housing supports, and day supports for people with disabilities. Headquartered in Northampton, it maintains 27 service locations in Massachusetts and across the U.S.

‘Maximize Your Website for Business Growth’

May 13, 20, 27: MarketingWorks, a series of educational programs for business owners, marketing professionals, and entrepreneurs hosted by Stevens 470 in Westfield, announced an upcoming program called “Maximize Your Website for Business Growth.” It meets weekly for three Friday mornings, May 13, 20, and 27. Customers, prospects, and associates make an immediate assessment of a business based on the content of its website. Participants in this group program will evaluate their current website and clarify the steps needed to make it the company’s most valuable marketing channel. For program details, visit www.stevens470.com/educational-programs.html or call Tina Stevens at (413) 568-2660.

Youth Mental-health First-aid Training

May 13, 20: Funded by a three-year grant by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration (SAMHSA) through the White House’s “Now is The Time” initiative, Clinical & Support Options Inc. is now offering free youth mental-health first-aid trainings to the community. The free, two-day training will be held at CSO’s administrative offices in Northampton; attendance both days is required. Youth mental-health first aid is designed to teach parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, health and human services workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (age 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addiction challenge or is in crisis. The training is primarily designed for adults who regularly interact with young people. The course introduces common mental-health challenges for youth, reviews typical adolescent development, and teaches a five-step action plan for how to help young people in both crisis and non-crisis situations. Topics covered include anxiety, depression, substance use, disorders in which psychosis may occur, disruptive behavior disorders (including ADHD), and eating disorders. Identified on SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices, the training helps the public better identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illnesses. Registration is required; e-mail [email protected] for a registration form. CSO is also available to bring this training on site to local agencies and businesses that wish to have a group of people trained for free. For more information on bringing this training to your agency or business, contact Allison Garriss, director, Business Development and Projects at Clinical & Support Options, at (413) 773-1314, ext. 5502 or [email protected].

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. An independent panel of judges has chosen the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, United Bank, and YPS of Greater Springfield. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

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Outlook 2016

March 29: Gov. Charlie Baker will serve as the keynote speaker at the Springfield Regional Chamber’s Outlook 2016 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. He made his first major address to the business community at the chamber’s annual event in 2015. Presented by Health New England, Outlook is the area’s largest legislative event, attracting more than 700 guests and presenting expert speakers on local, state, and federal issues. The event is sponsored by Eastern States Exposition, MassMutual Financial Group, United Personnel, and MGM Springfield; program/reception sponsors Sisters of Providence Health System, Comcast, Eversource, and the Republican; with support from Chicopee Savings Bank and BusinessWest, and presented in in partnership with the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce (ERC5). Baker and Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito have set their sights on addressing some of the Commonwealth’s greatest long-term challenges, including reducing family energy costs and improving the reliability of the energy grid through hydro- and solar-power legislation; lifting the charter-school cap; securing a 50% increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC); and curbing the opioid epidemic’s grip on Massachusetts families. Baker will be joined in the program by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who will remark on events at the federal level, including his insight into activities on Capitol Hill, the presidential race, and front-burner issues facing Congress in the coming months. “As a senior member of the powerful House Committee on Ways and Means and ranking member of its Select Revenue Measures subcommittee, Congressman Neal serves in a critically important capacity in Washington for our area, our state, and the entire country,” said chamber President Jeffrey Ciuffreda. Tickets are $50 for Springfield Regional Chamber members and ERC5 members, and $70 for general admission. Reserved tables of 10 are available. Reservations must be made by Friday, March 18 by visiting www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]. No walk-ins will be accepted, and no cancellations will be accepted once the reservation deadline has passed.

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. To reserve a spot, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or visit HERE. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class was profiled in the Jan. 25 issue, and their stories can also be read HERE. They include Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.; Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, philanthropist (1965-2015); Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties; Bay Path University President Carol Leary; and John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service. Difference Makers is sponsored by EMA Dental, First American Insurance Agency, Health New England, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Northwestern Mutual, PeoplesBank, Royal LLP, and Sunshine Village.

‘Training for the Digital Marketplace’

April 1, 8, 15: Stevens 470 will host a three-week program called “Training for the Digital Marketplace: Develop Your Online and Offline Marketing Strategies” to show attendees how to maximize their marketing channels. This seminar is for business owners, marketing managers, entrepreneurs, and key marketing staff. As marketing channels continue to evolve, are you using them to maximize your business opportunities? This program covers the latest online and offline marketing channels including brand presentation, websites, SEO, advertising, social media, e-mail, and mobile technologies. During this hands-on program, participants will review their current messaging and marketing channels; learn the latest ways to use both traditional and new media channels; explore social media, online advertising, and search-engine optimization; outline plans for offline and online marketing campaigns; coordinate marketing channels to maximize their effectiveness; and determine methods for evaluating results. Each participant will complete the program by creating a specific plan for their online and offline channels that they can share and put into action with members of their business team. The program meets weekly on three consecutive Friday mornings at Stevens 470 in Westfield. Limited space is available. For details, visit stevens470.com or call (413) 568-2660.

Service of Remembrance

April 3: Baystate Children’s Hospital will hold its annual Service of Remembrance for area families who have experienced the death of a child over the past year. All family member and friends are invited to attend the event, which will be held at 1 p.m. at Baystate Medical Center’s Chestnut Conference Center on 759 Chestnut St., Springfield. It is also open to families with losses prior to 2015. Baystate Children’s Hospital staff will be in attendance at the event to remember and pay tribute to the children and families who were under their care. Families are asked to respond by March 23 with the number of adults and children planning to attend the event, as well as their child’s name, if they would like it to be read aloud during the service. Families with earlier losses are simply asked to call and register. To respond, call Deborah Levine at (413) 794-3283. The special service will include readings, music, and a ceremony of light. Families can share a photograph or other memento of their child on a ‘Table of Memories’ at the event. They may also choose to have their child’s name read aloud during the Memorial Service, regardless of whether they can attend the event. As part of the service, families will be given a piece of fabric which they can personalize in memory of their child before it is added, along with others, to create a memory quilt. The new quilt will be displayed on Oct. 1, along with 17 other quilts created in past years, at Baystate’s annual Memorial Quilt Exhibit.

‘A Night of Passion’ for Link to Libraries

April 5: They’re calling the event “A Night of Passion.” That’s a phrase that applies to both support for efforts to promote childhood literacy and a fondness for a particular food or beverage. These various passions will come together April 5 at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke at Link to Libraries’ biennial fund-raising event. Proceeds from all ticket sales will go to Link to Libraries. More than 500 people are expected to attend the event, which will be a celebration of all that Link to Libraries has accomplished since it was created in 2008 — including the donation of nearly 500,000 books to area schools and organizations — and how it intends to continually expand its mission in the years to come. As for those passions for specific foods and drinks, they will be a focus of the night, provided by a host of area celebrities and business leaders, including Mike Mathis, MGM Springfield president and chief operating officer; Kevin Rhodes, Springfield Symphony Orchestra conductor; Spiros Hatiras, Holyoke Medical Center president and CEO; Delcie Bean IV, CEO of Paragus Strategic IT; Mick Corduff, executive chef and co-owner of the Log Cabin; Amy Royal, founding partner of Royal, P.C., and many more. As for their passions, well, those are carefully guarded secrets at this point. Those who would like to experience these passions and support Link to Libraries — which supplies books to schools and other organizations across Western Mass. and Northern Conn., and promotes read-alouds that put area business and civic leaders in area classrooms — can buy tickets for $40 each by sending checks to: Link to Libraries, Attn. Karen Blinderman, P.O. Box 958, West Springfield, MA 01090. All beverages are included in the ticket price. Food and beverages are donated by the Log Cabin. Sponsors for “A Night of Passion” include lead sponsors Health New England and Rediker Software, and event sponsors Bacon Wilson, Bank of America – U.S. Trust, the Frank Stanley Beveridge Foundation, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, James Vinick and Moors & Cabot Investments, Monson Savings Bank, PeoplesBank, Peoples United Bank, the Springfield Falcons, and United Bank.

‘Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS’

April 9: Patrick Donnelly, 2015-17 poet laureate of Northampton, will host “Poets for Life: Poets Respond to AIDS,” a benefit reading in support of A Positive Place (formerly AIDS Care/Hampshire County), a nonprofit organization providing a wide array of services for people with HIV in Hampshire and surrounding counties. The event will be held at 3 p.m. at the Paradise Room, Conference Center, Smith College, 51 College Lane, Northampton. The Northampton Council for the Arts and the Poetry Center at Smith College are co-sponsors of the benefit. Tickets for the event are $20 and may be purchased online at poetsforlife.brownpapertickets.com, or by phone at (800) 838-3006, ext. 1, or at the door at the event. All proceeds from ticket sales will benefit A Positive Place. Those unable to attend the event can designate a tax-deductible donation through poetsforlife.brownpapertickets.com to make it possible for one of A Positive Place’s clients to attend. Poets for Life will feature readings by award-winning poets Eduardo C. Corral, Patrick Donnelly, Michael Klein, and Joan Larkin, who will read not only from their own poetry about the epidemic, but from the work of other notable poets, living and dead. Singer-songwriter Laura Wetzler will also perform. Since 1991, A Positive Place has been providing comprehensive, confidential case management and health-related support services, filling life-saving needs for people living with HIV/AIDS in the county. Anyone living with HIV or AIDS is eligible for services regardless of level of need, health status, or ability to pay. Services are free to people living with HIV.

Not Just Business as Usual

April 14: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event, a networking event for business leaders in Western Mass., will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The event, now in its seventh year, is a celebration of innovative thinking giving participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and keynote speakers to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This year, NJBAU will host a discussion of diversity in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields with panelists Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs; Laurie Leshin, president of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; and Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations for Baystate Health. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $175 each, and sponsorships begin at $2,500 for a table for 10. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC’s director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

 

5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause

April 30: Registration is now open for Baystate Noble Hospital’s 32nd annual 5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause, being held at Stanley Park in Westfield. The race begins at 9 a.m., with registration from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. near the Children’s Pavilion. The Baystate Noble 5K is a competitive, 3.1-mile road race through Stanley Park and surrounding areas for all levels of runners, from the novice to the serious athlete. Early registration is encouraged. The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $35 through April 29 (seniors 60 and older are $25). The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $40 on April 30 ($30 for seniors). Children 12 and under participate free when accompanied by a paying adult. T-shirts in various sizes are available to registrants on a first-come, first-served basis while inventory is available. To register online, download registration materials, and read general information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k. Sponsorship and vendor table opportunities are also available. For more information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k or contact the Community Development Office at [email protected] or (413) 568-2811, ext. 5520.

 

Walk of Champions

May 1: The community is invited to come together at the Quabbin Reservoir to mark the 11th annual Walk of Champions to benefit the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware. The walk is a one-mile loop that allows walkers to choose the number of miles they complete among the comfortable walking terrain of the Goodnough Dike. Along the way, walkers will enjoy entertainment and refreshments, along with the peace and beauty of the Quabbin Reservoir. Since its inception, the Walk of Champions has raised more than $662,000. All funds raised remain local to support those cared for in the Baystate Health Eastern Region at Baystate Medical Center’s Mary Lane Satellite Unit and for things such as family-support counseling, educational outreach, pastoral care, medications, state-of-the-art equipment, and the Healing Garden located in the courtyard of the hospital. Overlooking the Healing Garden is the oncology suite, which provides access to comprehensive cancer care, clinical trials, and a multi-disciplinary team approach to cancer care. Pledge forms, fund-raising resources, giving opportunities, and more are available at www.baystatehealth.org/woc for businesses, community organizations, and individuals who wish to participate.

 

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. An independent panel of judges has chosen the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. Tickets — which cost $65 per person, with reserved tables of 10 available — are going very quickly. To order, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

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Management Conference

March 10: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced its 12th annual Management Conference will be held at the Springfield Marriott, with a focus on driving business performance. The full-day conference will address how managers and supervisors can create a culture of alignment, agility, and engagement to improve organizational performance. The program will feature Bruce Tulgan, an expert on leadership and management. He is the bestselling author of It’s Okay to Be the Boss, Managing Generation X, and his newest book, Bridging the Soft Skills Gap. The conference also includes breakout sessions, a presentation on “Building a Leadership Culture of Innovation and Energy” with Rich Trombetta of Innovation Is Easy, and an improv workshop by ConnectAnd about connecting your leadership to your team. The cost for the program is $325 per person, with discounts for three or more. Register and learn more at eane.org/12th-annual-management-conference or call (877) 662-6444. The program will offer 6.75 credits from the HR Certification Institute. Sponsoring the program are Johnson and Hill Staffing and the Human Resource Certification Institute.

 

Springfield Falcons Dr. Seuss Night

March 12: The Springfield Falcons, in partnership with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, announced Dr. Seuss Night, to be held during a game against the Portland Pirates starting at 7 p.m. Dr. Seuss Night and the game will be sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For the first time ever, Dr. Seuss Enterprises has partnered with the Falcons and the Springfield Museums in presenting this special night to honor Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, who was born and raised in Springfield. The Springfield Museums are preparing to open the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in 2016, an exhibit featuring interactive activities for children and a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide a look at the man behind the drawing board. “We are excited to partner with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises in presenting this special night to honor one of Springfield’s most famous native sons,” Falcons President Sarah Pompea said. “We have been anticipating this night since the summer months and are excited to aid the launching of the new museum in support of a unique family entertainment night around a favorite children’s author.” The night will include appearances by the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2 costumed characters. In addition, specialty jerseys will be worn by Falcons players and auctioned off, with proceeds donated to the Springfield Museums to help support the creation of the new museum. “We are thrilled that the Falcons are stepping up in support of our fund-raising campaign,” said Kay Simpson, president of the Springfield Museums. “It’s wonderful to have the support of one our best downtown neighbors.”

 

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. To reserve a spot, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or go HERE. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class was profiled in the Jan. 25 issue, and their stories can also be read online at businesswest.com. They include Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.; Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, philanthropist (1965-2015); Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties; Bay Path University President Carol Leary; and John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service. Difference Makers is sponsored by EMA Dental, First American Insurance Agency, Health New England, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Northwestern Mutual, PeoplesBank, Royal LLP, and Sunshine Village.

 

‘Training for the Digital Marketplace’

April 1, 8, 15: Stevens 470 will host a three-week program called “Training for the Digital Marketplace: Develop Your Online and Offline Marketing Strategies” to show attendees how to maximize their marketing channels. This seminar is for business owners, marketing managers, entrepreneurs, and key marketing staff. As marketing channels continue to evolve, are you using them to maximize your business opportunities? This program covers the latest online and offline marketing channels including brand presentation, websites, SEO, advertising, social media, e-mail, and mobile technologies. During this hands-on program, participants will review their current messaging and marketing channels; learn the latest ways to use both traditional and new media channels; explore social media, online advertising, and search-engine optimization; outline plans for offline and online marketing campaigns; coordinate marketing channels to maximize their effectiveness; and determine methods for evaluating results. Each participant will complete the program by creating a specific plan for their online and offline channels that they can share and put into action with members of their business team. The program meets weekly on three consecutive Friday mornings at Stevens 470 in Westfield. Limited space is available. For details, visit stevens470.com or call (413) 568-2660.

 

‘A Night of Passion’ for Link to Libraries

April 5: They’re calling the event “A Night of Passion.” That’s a phrase that applies to both support for efforts to promote childhood literacy and a fondness for a particular food or beverage. These various passions will come together April 5 at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke at Link to Libraries’ biennial fund-raising event. Proceeds from all ticket sales will go to Link to Libraries. More than 500 people are expected to attend the event, which will be a celebration of all that Link to Libraries has accomplished since it was created in 2008 — including the donation of nearly 500,000 books to area schools and organizations — and how it intends to continually expand its mission in the years to come. As for those passions for specific foods and drinks, they will be a focus of the night, provided by a host of area celebrities and business leaders, including Mike Mathis, MGM Springfield president and chief operating officer; Kevin Rhodes, Springfield Symphony Orchestra conductor; Spiros Hatiras, Holyoke Medical Center president and CEO; Delcie Bean IV, CEO of Paragus Strategic IT; Mick Corduff, executive chef and co-owner of the Log Cabin; Amy Royal, founding partner of Royal, P.C., and many more. As for their passions, well, those are carefully guarded secrets at this point. Those who would like to experience these passions and support Link to Libraries — which supplies books to schools and other organizations across Western Mass. and Northern Conn., and promotes read-alouds that put area business and civic leaders in area classrooms — can buy tickets for $40 each by sending checks to: Link to Libraries, Attn. Karen Blinderman, P.O. Box 958, West Springfield, MA 01090. All beverages are included in the ticket price. Food and beverages are donated by the Log Cabin. Sponsors for “A Night of Passion” include lead sponsors Health New England and Rediker Software, and event sponsors Bacon Wilson, Bank of America – U.S. Trust, the Frank Stanley Beveridge Foundation, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, James Vinick and Moors & Cabot Investments, Monson Savings Bank, PeoplesBank, Peoples United Bank, the Springfield Falcons, and United Bank.

 

Not Just Business as Usual

April 14: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event, a networking event for business leaders in Western Mass., will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The event, now in its seventh year, is a celebration of innovative thinking giving participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and keynote speakers to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This year, NJBAU will host a discussion of diversity in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields with panelists Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs; Laurie Leshin, president of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; and Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations for Baystate Health. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $175 each, and sponsorships begin at $2,500 for a table for 10. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC’s director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

 

Walk of Champions

May 1: The community is invited to come together at the Quabbin Reservoir to mark the 11th annual Walk of Champions to benefit the Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital in Ware. The Walk of Champions, founded in 2006 by John O’Neill, field-hockey coach at Quaboag Regional Middle High School, began as a tribute to the compassionate care and comfort his mother received during her struggle with cancer. Since then, the Walk of Champions has grown into a collection of teams and individuals each walking for their own reason. There are friends and family members celebrating victory over cancer. Others are encouraging their loved ones in their personal fight over cancer, while others walk in memory of those who have lost their battle with cancer. The walk is a one-mile loop that allows walkers to choose the number of miles they complete among the comfortable walking terrain of the Goodnough Dike. Along the way, walkers will enjoy entertainment and refreshments, along with the peace and beauty of the Quabbin Reservoir. Since its inception, the Walk of Champions has raised more than $662,000. All funds raised remain local to support those cared for in the Baystate Health Eastern Region at Baystate Medical Center’s Mary Lane Satellite Unit and for things such as family-support counseling, educational outreach, pastoral care, medications, state-of-the-art equipment, and the Healing Garden located in the courtyard of the hospital. Overlooking the Healing Garden is the oncology suite, which provides access to comprehensive cancer care, clinical trials, and a multi-disciplinary team approach to cancer care. Pledge forms, fund-raising resources, giving opportunities, and more are available at www.baystatehealth.org/woc for businesses, community organizations, and individuals who wish to participate.

 

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. An independent panel of judges has chosen the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

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Academy of Music Historic Tour

Feb. 24: The Academy of Music will offer a free tour of the historic theater at 5:15 p.m. Led by Academy of Music Development Coordinator Kathryn Slater, the tour will provide insight into the history behind this Northampton mainstay, including details about the organization’s founder and interesting notes about the many revitalizations. Built in 1891, the Academy of Music was the first municipally owned theater in the U.S., and home to the first stock theater company in the nation, the Northampton Players, formed in 1912. For nearly 125 years, the Academy has hosted an impressive array of performers, and the building holds the tales. See for yourself the century-old hole cut in the stage floor for Houdini’s disappearing act; Cole Porter’s grandfather clock; dressing rooms used by Sarah Bernhardt, Boris Karloff, Ethel Barrymore; and more. Step on the stage and see the Academy of Music from a whole new perspective, and take in the results of the 2014 restoration that refurbished the 800-seat auditorium, which earned a Mass. Historical Commission Preservation Award. This walking-and-talking tour begins promptly at 5:15 p.m. in the main lobby and is expected to run approximately 45 minutes. Admission is free, but reservations are required, as attendance is limited to 20. Reservations may be made through the Academy of Music Box Office by calling (413) 584-9032, ext. 105, Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., or by e-mailing [email protected].

Management Conference

March 10: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced its 12th annual Management Conference will be held at the Springfield Marriott, with a focus on driving business performance. The full-day conference will address how managers and supervisors can create a culture of alignment, agility, and engagement to improve organizational performance. “Research shows that 60% of highly engaged employees report that their work is not aligned with company goals,” said Meredith Wise, EANE president. “By aligning employees to business priorities and equipping them with skills to quickly sense and lead change, companies can improve their organizational performance. Our conference is about managers and supervisors learning how alignment, agility, and engagement contribute to corporate performance.” The program will feature Bruce Tulgan, an expert on leadership and management. He is the bestselling author of It’s Okay to Be the Boss, Managing Generation X, and his newest book, Bridging the Soft Skills Gap. The conference also includes breakout sessions, a presentation on “Building a Leadership Culture of Innovation and Energy” with Rich Trombetta of Innovation Is Easy, and an improv workshop by ConnectAnd about connecting your leadership to your team. The cost for the program is $325 per person, with discounts for three or more. Register and learn more at eane.org/12th-annual-management-conference or call (877) 662-6444. The program will offer 6.75 credits from the HR Certification Institute. Sponsoring the program are Johnson and Hill Staffing and the Human Resource Certification Institute.

 

Celebrate Springfield Dinner

March 10: DevelopSpringfield will host its fifth annual Celebrate Springfield dinner event in celebration of the many accomplishments the community has achieved over the past year along with exciting new initiatives underway. The event will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Festivities will include a reception with live music by the Eric Bascom Trio, auction activities, a cash bar, and hors d’oeuvres, followed by dinner, a brief program, and award presentations. The platinum sponsor this year is MassMutual Financial Group. Many other local businesses and organizations are also supporting the event as sponsors and participants. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. DevelopSpringfield will once again present its Partner in Progress Award to recognize the outstanding contributions of three individuals toward revitalization in Springfield. Honorees are selected for their leadership and ability to motivate and inspire others. This year’s honorees are Brian Connors, Springfield’s deputy director of Economic Development; Maureen Hayes, president of Hayes Development Services; and Ira Rubenzahl, president of Springfield Technical Community College. In addition to the program and award presentations, greetings will be provided by Mayor Domenic Sarno followed by Jay Ash, secretary of the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development. Jill Monson-Bishop of Inspired Marketing will serve as mistress of ceremonies. The celebration is a benefit event; all proceeds will support DevelopSpringfield’s redevelopment initiatives, projects, and programs. More than 500 attendees, including state and city officials, leaders from the business and nonprofit communities, and local residents, are expected to come together in support of ongoing efforts to advance development and redevelopment projects, to stimulate and support economic growth, and to expedite the revitalization process within the city. Tickets are $100 per person. Registration and sponsorship information is available at www.developspringfield.com or by contacting Paige Thayer at (413) 209-8808 or [email protected]. RSVP by Tuesday, Feb. 23.

 

Springfield Falcons Dr. Seuss Night

March 12: The Springfield Falcons, in partnership with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, announced Dr. Seuss Night, to be held during a game against the Portland Pirates starting at 7 p.m. Dr. Seuss Night and the game will be sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For the first time ever, Dr. Seuss Enterprises has partnered with the Falcons and the Springfield Museums in presenting this special night to honor Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, who was born and raised in Springfield. The Springfield Museums are preparing to open the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in 2016, an exhibit featuring interactive activities for children and a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide a look at the man behind the drawing board. “We are excited to partner with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises in presenting this special night to honor one of Springfield’s most famous native sons,” Falcons President Sarah Pompea said. The night will include appearances by the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2 costumed characters. In addition, specialty jerseys will be worn by Falcons players and auctioned off, with proceeds donated to the Springfield Museums to help support the creation of the new museum. “We are thrilled that the Falcons are stepping up in support of our fund-raising campaign,” said Kay Simpson, president of the Springfield Museums. “It’s wonderful to have the support of one our best downtown neighbors.”

 

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. To reserve a spot, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or visit businesswest.com. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class was profiled in the Jan. 25 issue, and their stories can also be read online HERE. They include Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.; Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, philanthropist (1965-2015); Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties; Bay Path University President Carol Leary; and John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service. Difference Makers is sponsored by EMA Dental, First American Insurance Agency, Health New England, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Northwestern Mutual, PeoplesBank, Royal LLP, and Sunshine Village.

 

‘A Night of Passion’ for Link to Libraries

April 5: They’re calling the event “A Night of Passion.” That’s a phrase that applies to both support for efforts to promote childhood literacy and a fondness for a particular food or beverage. These various passions will come together at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke at Link to Libraries’ biennial fund-raising event. More than 500 people are expected to attend the event, which will be a celebration of all that Link to Libraries has accomplished since it was created in 2008 — including the donation of nearly 500,000 books to area schools and organizations — and how it intends to continually expand its mission in the years to come. As for those passions for specific foods and drinks, they will be a focus of the night, provided by a host of area celebrities and business leaders, including Mike Mathis, MGM Springfield president and chief operating officer; Kevin Rhodes, Springfield Symphony Orchestra conductor; Spiros Hatiras, Holyoke Medical Center president and CEO; Delcie Bean IV, CEO of Paragus Strategic IT; Mick Corduff, executive chef and co-owner of the Log Cabin; Amy Royal, founding partner of Royal, P.C., and many more. As for their passions, well, those are carefully guarded secrets at this point. Those who would like to experience these passions and support Link to Libraries — which supplies books to schools and other organizations across Western Mass. and Northern Conn., and promotes read-alouds that put area business and civic leaders in area classrooms — can buy tickets for $40 each by sending checks to: Link to Libraries, Attn. Karen Blinderman, P.O. Box 958, West Springfield, MA 01090. Sponsors for “A Night of Passion” include lead sponsors Health New England and Rediker Software, and event sponsors Bacon Wilson, Bank of America – U.S. Trust, the Frank Stanley Beveridge Foundation, the Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, James Vinick and Moors & Cabot Investments, Monson Savings Bank, PeoplesBank, Peoples United Bank, the Springfield Falcons, and United Bank.

 

 

Not Just Business as Usual

April 14: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event, a networking event for business leaders in Western Mass., will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. The event, now in its seventh year, is a celebration of innovative thinking giving participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and keynote speakers to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This year, NJBAU will host a discussion of diversity in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields with panelists Emily Reichert, CEO of Greentown Labs; Laurie Leshin, president of Worcester Polytechnic Institute; and Frank Robinson, vice president of Public Health and Community Relations for Baystate Health. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $175 each, and sponsorships begin at $2,500 for a table for 10. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC’s director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

 

5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause

April 30: Registration is now open for Baystate Noble Hospital’s 32nd annual 5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause, being held at Stanley Park in Westfield. The race begins at 9 a.m., with registration from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. near the Children’s Pavilion. The Baystate Noble 5K is a competitive road race for all levels of runners, from the novice to the serious athlete. The 3.1-mile course is flat out and back through Stanley Park and the surrounding residential area. A family-friendly, non-competitive walk follows the same route as the road race. Individuals, teams, wheelchair racers, and school groups are all encouraged to participate. After the race, refreshments, activities, and vendor tables will be located near registration, and awards will be given out. Early registration is encouraged. The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $35 through April 29 (seniors 60 and older are $25). The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $40 on April 30 ($30 for seniors). Children 12 and under participate free when accompanied by a paying adult. T-shirts in various sizes are available to registrants on a first-come, first-served basis while inventory is available. To register online, download registration materials, and read general information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k.

 

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. Nominations are now closed, and an independent panel of judges will choose the winners; their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

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‘Wolf to Woof’ Exhibit

Through May 12: In today’s society, dogs enhance the lives of millions of people in countless ways, but they are also some of our oldest friends. Ancient clues like cave paintings and burials reveal that dogs and people have lived together for thousands of years. But why have humans formed such close relationships with dogs, and not cows or chickens? “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is the largest and most comprehensive traveling exhibition ever created on the history, biology, and evolution of dogs. The exhibit, on view at the Springfield Science Museum through May 12, attempts to sniff out the facts on dogs and explore what makes the human/dog relationship so unique. It uses the familiarity and love of these four-legged friends to explore science and biological concepts. The exhibit has four themed sections including multi-media displays, artifacts, photo murals, and dioramas of taxidermied wild canines and sculpted modern dog breeds. Additionally, interactive, hands-on components demonstrate key exhibit concepts. For example, visitors can enter a ‘howling area’ and guess what dogs are saying, test their nose against a dog’s great sense of smell, and examine fossil and genetic evidence of how modern-day dogs are descended from wolves. In addition, the weekly Museums à la Carte lecture on Thursday, March 17 will feature a talk by Eliot Rusman, president and CEO of Fidelco Guide Dog Foundation. Tickets for this lecture are $4 for the general public and $2 for members. “Wolf to Woof: The Story of Dogs” is sponsored by United Bank. MassMutual is the 2015-16 Premier Sponsor of the Springfield Museums.

Grief Through Story Workshop

Feb. 10: The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens will present a Grief Through Story workshop from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Sunderland Public Library, 20 School St. The workshop, co-hosted by the Sunderland, Deerfield, and Hatfield public libraries, is geared toward adult caregivers and community members who are interested in learning how to initiate gentle conversations with youth about death, dying, and grief. The purpose of the workshop is to use children’s literature as an effective tool in talking with children about these difficult topics. Participants will join in a guided conversation about grief and will discover resources in various mediums that can be used to facilitate these important conversations. Family members, friends, and loved ones in the lives of a grieving young person, as well as anyone interested in grief work with children, is invited to attend.   The snow date is Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The event is free, and drop-ins are welcome. The Garden provides bereavement support at no cost to grieving families with young children no matter where, how, or when a death occurred. For more information about its programs, call Shelly Bathe Lenn, Garden coordinator, at (413) 582-5312.

Chocolate Fantasy

Feb. 12: Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s volunteers and members of the Baystate Franklin Auxiliary (BFA) will hold their annual Chocolate Fantasy fund-raiser from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the hospital’s main conference rooms. This year, funds raised at the Chocolate Fantasy will support the hospital’s Cardiopulmonary Department and Mental Health Unit. The event also features Valentine-related crafts and a raffle with baskets of items from local businesses. BFMC Clinical Notes, the hospital’s women’s a cappella chorus, will present a mini-concert of love songs at 12:15 pm in the main lobby. “Many local organizations and BFMC staff and volunteers have graciously and generously donated chocolate items, from chocolate-chip cookies to chocolate-covered apples to truffles and fudge, and much more,” said Sydney Ramey, chair of the Chocolate Fantasy committee. “We always invite contributors to think creatively as they consider what to send in for the sale.” A highlight of this year’s Fantasy is the raffling of an original watercolor by John Tomasetti, a member of the Old Deerfield Painting Group. The painting is on display in the BFA Gift Shop window. Raffle tickets may be purchased in the shop for $2 each, three for $5, or $10 for a baker’s dozen. The drawing will take place at the Chocolate Fantasy. For more information on the event, or to donate chocolate goodies or raffle items, contact Becky George, manger, Volunteer Services, BFMC, at (413) 773-2318  or [email protected].

Red Cross Blood Drive

Feb 16: The MassMutual Center will host its annual American Red Cross blood drive from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Severe winter weather across the nation since Jan. 1 has forced the cancellation of more than 300 blood drives, resulting in more than 9,500 donations uncollected, further depleting an already-low winter supply. In order to fulfill the need, blood products are being distributed to hospitals as quickly as donations are being collected. “The MassMutual Center is proud to hold our annual blood drive in support of the Red Cross. We are committed to serving the Springfield community and working with partners such as the Red Cross whose mission is to provide compassionate care to those in need,” said Stacey Church, general manager of the MassMutual Center. Visit redcrossblood.org or call (800) 733-2767 to schedule an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred.

 

Informational Seminar on
Alzheimer’s, Dementia

Feb. 16: The Arbors at Chicopee will host an informational seminar on Alzheimer’s disease and dementia at 6 p.m. Ed Walters-Zucco, RN at Integra, will offer a brief presentation on the differences between the two diseases and the signs and symptoms. More than 5 million Americans suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Community and resident family members will gather to learn how to cope with this statistic. Following the presentation will be a question-and-answer session and a raffle drawing. Refreshments, cookies, and cheese and crackers will be served.

 

Dinner, Conversation
About Race in America

Feb. 21: Blue Heron Restaurant will host “On the Bus: Dinner and a Conversation About Race in America with Julius Lester and Barry Moser.” Lester and Moser, writers, educators, and artists who currently reside in Western Mass., both came of age in Tennessee in the 1950s and 60s. Although they both rode public buses in the South, their experiences differed greatly because of the color of their skin. Their experience provides a lens through which the two will begin a discussion on race, racism, and segregation in the U.S. Local poet, author, and gallery owner Richard Michelson will moderate the discussion. Guests will be invited to pose questions to the panelists and share their own thoughts and experiences on the subject. The evening’s menu will draw from the culinary heritage of the American South. The meal will begin with a root vegetable soup served with pimento-cheese crostini. For the main course, guests will choose from a selection of chicken-fried steak with cream gravy, fried catfish with jalapeño remoulade, or squash and cheddar soufflé. Side dishes will be served family-style, and include collard greens, hoppin’ John, sautéed okra, and housemade biscuits. The meal will conclude with a slice of chess pie, a staple of Southern cuisine. The event will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the cost is $40 per person, not including tax or gratuity. The full menu is available to view at www.blueherondining.com/special-events. Reservations are recommended and can be made by calling (413) 665-2102 or e-mailing [email protected].

 

Real-estate
Licensing Course

Feb. 22: Beginning Monday, Feb. 22, the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will sponsor a 40-hour, 14-class sales-licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real-estate salesperson license exam. The course will be completed on Wednesday, March 23. Tuition is $359 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328.

 

Celiac Disease and
Gluten-free Diets

Feb. 24: Many people are on gluten-free diets, either due to celiac disease, gluten intolerance, or just because they think it’s healthier. The community is invited to attend a luncheon program titled “Separating Facts from Fad: Gluten-free Diets,” presented by Dr. Harbir Sawhney, gastroenterologist from Baystate Medical Practices – Mary Lane Gastroenterology from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Baystate Wing Hospital in Palmer. “Dr. Sawheny will discuss celiac disease, gluten-free diets, and all things gastrointestinal,” said Susan Fontaine, senior coordinator of Loyalty Programs at Baystate Health. “Celiac disease is a digestive disorder in which the body can’t tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats. According to the National Foundation for Celiac Awareness, an estimated 1 in 133 Americans, or about 1% of the population, has celiac disease. “If you need to cut gluten from your diet, it may seem difficult, but there are many healthy and delicious foods that are naturally gluten-free,” said Fontaine, noting that the program will include a gluten-free bag lunch. The program is sponsored by Baystate Health Senior Class and will include lunch at no cost. Space is limited, and registration is required by calling Baystate Health Link at (800) 377-4325. For more information about the Senior Class Loyalty Program, visit www.baystatehealth.org/seniorclass.

 

Academy of Music
Historic Tour

Feb. 24: The Academy of Music will offer a free tour of the historic theater at 5:15 p.m. Led by Academy of Music Development Coordinator Kathryn Slater, the tour will provide insight into the history behind this Northampton mainstay, including details about the organization’s founder and interesting notes about the many revitalizations. Built in 1891, the Academy of Music was the first municipally owned theater in the U.S., and home to the first stock theater company in the nation, the Northampton Players, formed in 1912. For nearly 125 years, the Academy has hosted an impressive array of performers, and the building holds the tales. See for yourself the century-old hole cut in the stage floor for Houdini’s disappearing act; Cole Porter’s grandfather clock; dressing rooms used by Sarah Bernhardt, Boris Karloff, Ethel Barrymore; and more. Step on the stage and see the Academy of Music from a whole new perspective, and take in the results of the 2014 restoration that refurbished the 800-seat auditorium, which earned a Mass. Historical Commission Preservation Award. This walking-and-talking tour begins promptly at 5:15 p.m. in the main lobby and is expected to run approximately 45 minutes. Admission is free, but reservations are required, as attendance is limited to 20. Reservations may be made through the Academy of Music Box Office by calling (413) 584-9032, ext. 105, Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., or by e-mailing [email protected].

 

Springfield Falcons
Dr. Seuss Night

March 12: The Springfield Falcons, in partnership with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises, announced Dr. Seuss Night, to be held during a game against the Portland Pirates starting at 7 p.m. Dr. Seuss Night and the game will be sponsored by Berkshire Bank. For the first time ever, Dr. Seuss Enterprises has partnered with the Falcons and the Springfield Museums in presenting this special night to honor Theodor Geisel, a.k.a. Dr. Seuss, who was born and raised in Springfield. The Springfield Museums are preparing to open the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum in 2016, an exhibit featuring interactive activities for children and a one-of-a-kind experience that will provide a look at the man behind the drawing board. “We are excited to partner with the Springfield Museums and Dr. Seuss Enterprises in presenting this special night to honor one of Springfield’s most famous native sons,” Falcons President Sarah Pompea said. “We have been anticipating this night since the summer months and are excited to aid the launching of the new museum in support of a unique family entertainment night around a favorite children’s author.” The night will include appearances by the Cat in the Hat and Thing 1 and Thing 2 costumed characters. In addition, specialty jerseys will be worn by Falcons players and auctioned off, with proceeds donated to the Springfield Museums to help support the creation of the new museum. “We are thrilled that the Falcons are stepping up in support of our fund-raising campaign,” said Kay Simpson, president of the Springfield Museums. “It’s wonderful to have the support of one our best downtown neighbors.”

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. To reserve a spot, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or visit businesswest.com. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class was profiled in the Jan. 25 issue, and their stories can also be read online at businesswest.com. They include Hampden County Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.; Mike Balise, Balise Motor Sales, philanthropist (1965-2015); Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties; Bay Path University President Carol Leary; and John Robison, president, J.E. Robison Service. Difference Makers is sponsored by EMA Dental, First American Insurance Agency, Health New England, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Northwestern Mutual, PeoplesBank, Royal LLP, and Sunshine Village.

 

5K Run & Walk
for a Noble Cause

April 30: Registration is now open for Baystate Noble Hospital’s 32nd annual 5K Run & Walk for a Noble Cause, being held at Stanley Park in Westfield. The race begins at 9 a.m., with registration from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. near the Children’s Pavilion. The Baystate Noble 5K is a competitive road race for all levels of runners, from the novice to the serious athlete. The 3.1-mile course is flat out and back through Stanley Park and the surrounding residential area. A family-friendly, non-competitive walk follows the same route as the road race. Individuals, teams, wheelchair racers, and school groups are all encouraged to participate. After the race, refreshments, activities, and vendor tables will be located near registration, and awards will be given out. Early registration is encouraged. The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $35 through April 29 (seniors 60 and older are $25). The registration fee for ages 13-59 is $40 on April 30 ($30 for seniors). Children 12 and under participate free when accompanied by a paying adult. T-shirts in various sizes are available to registrants on a first-come, first-served basis while inventory is available. To register online, download registration materials, and read general information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k. Sponsorship and vendor table opportunities are also available. For more information, visit baystatenoblehospital.org/5k or contact the Community Development Office at [email protected] or (413) 568-2811, ext. 5520.

 

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. The magazine will continue to accept nominations for the class of 2016 until 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12. The nomination form, which can be found at businesswest.com, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community. An independent panel of judges (see profiles on page 9 of this issue) will choose the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. The event is sponsored by Northwestern Mutual and Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsors), EMA Dental, Health New England, Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

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‘Better Angels’ Exhibit

Through July 10: In the months prior to 9/11, firefighter Peter Freund had been considering a career change after 23 years with the FDNY. One week after he perished at the World Trade Center, Freund’s family received a letter confirming his acceptance to teach high-school mathematics. Described by some as “a living saint,” chaplain Mychal Judge was the first FDNY casualty listed on 9/11, entry number 0001. His helmet was later presented as a gift to the Pope. A proud first-time uncle, firefighter William Johnston, had been looking forward to the baby shower on Sept. 30. His remains were found at Ground Zero that afternoon. These are just a few of the stories that await visitors who come to view “Better Angels: the Firefighters of 9/11,” a new traveling exhibit at the Lyman & Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History opening Tuesday, Jan. 12 and running through July 10. The exhibit features 343 portraits by artist Dawn Howkinson Siebel, one for every New York City firefighter lost in the World Trade Center attacks. Together, the images create a wall measuring 21 feet long, allowing visitors to come face to face with men who made their living running toward danger and saving lives, even at the risk of their own. Siebel, a current resident of Easthampton, was living in Colorado at the time of the attacks, but had been a longtime resident of Manhattan in the years prior. Inspired when the New York Times printed photos of all 343 fallen FDNY members, Siebel set out to paint a portrait of every firefighter lost on that fateful day. Over the next few years, she painstakingly hand-painted each portrait onto a block of charred wood. In total, the exhibit took 3,000 hours and over six years to create. In her artist statement for the exhibit, Siebel said, “these 343 firemen represent New York, the FDNY, their selfless profession, and also — in the way of heroes — the possibility that each of us may rise to the ‘better angels’ of our own nature.”

‘How to Talk to Kids About Therapy’

Feb. 9: The Garden: A Center for Grieving Children and Teens, a program of Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice that provides support to grieving young people and their families, announced a free workshop with Sarah Abel, LICSW. This workshop, titled “How to Talk to Kids About Therapy,” will take place from 6 to 7:30 pm at the Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice offices at 168 Industrial Dr. Geared toward adult caregivers, the purpose of the workshop is to provide an understanding of child therapy and to prepare parents, caregivers, and teachers to talk about therapy with kids. Participants will be able to discuss children’s behaviors and what they reveal about underlying feelings. Participants will also consider when to consult with a therapist around concerns about a child. Abel has been a psychotherapist since 1994 and aims to help families prepare their children to enter into therapy and face this vulnerable moment for both parents and children. She is a graduate of New York University School of Social Work and the Institute of Child, Adolescent and Family Studies, and completed a post-graduate fellowship in psychoanalysis at the Massachusetts Institute for Psychoanalysis. She has taught child development at Smith College School of Social Work and currently treats children, adolescents, and adults in her private practice in Northampton. This event is free, and the snow date is Thursday, Feb. 11 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. To RSVP, contact Shelly Bathe Lenn, coordinator at the Garden, at (413) 582-5312.

 

Heart Walk Kickoff Breakfast

Feb. 12: The American Heart Assoc./American Stroke Assoc. invites the public to the 2016 Pioneer Valley Heart Walk Kickoff Breakfast from 8 to 9 a.m. at the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. The free event includes a hot breakfast. Team captains or those interested in leading a team are encouraged to attend to receive their team-captain kits, hear a panel of guest speakers, and learn more about the Heart Walk and new 5k Run, set for Sunday, May 1 at Look Park in Florence. To attend the breakfast, RSVP by Tuesday, Jan. 26 with Traci Heath at (413) 262-3223 or [email protected]. For more information, visit www.pioneervalleyheartwalk.org.

 

Academy of Music Historic Tour

Feb. 24: The Academy of Music will offer a free tour of the historic theater at 5:15 p.m. Led by Academy of Music Development Coordinator Kathryn Slater, the tour will provide insight into the history behind this Northampton mainstay, including details about the organization’s founder and interesting notes about the many revitalizations. Built in 1891, the Academy of Music was the first municipally owned theater in the U.S., and home to the first stock theater company in the nation, the Northampton Players, formed in 1912. For nearly 125 years, the Academy has hosted an impressive array of performers, and the building holds the tales. See for yourself the century-old hole cut in the stage floor for Houdini’s disappearing act; Cole Porter’s grandfather clock; dressing rooms used by Sarah Bernhardt, Boris Karloff, Ethel Barrymore; and more. Step on the stage and see the Academy of Music from a whole new perspective, and take in the results of the 2014 restoration that refurbished the 800-seat auditorium, which earned a Mass. Historical Commission Preservation Award. This walking-and-talking tour begins promptly at 5:15 p.m. in the main lobby and is expected to run approximately 45 minutes. Admission is free, but reservations are required, as attendance is limited to 20. Reservations may be made through the Academy of Music Box Office by calling (413) 584-9032, ext. 105, Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m., or by e-mailing [email protected].

 

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Tickets cost $60, and tables of 10 are available. For more information, go HERE. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class is profiled in this issue HERE. Difference Makers is sponsored by EMA Dental, First American Insurance Agency, Health New England, Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., Northwestern Mutual, PeoplesBank, Royal LLP, and Sunshine Village.

 

40 Under Forty

June 16: The 10th annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House in Holyoke, honoring 40 of the region’s rising stars under 40 years old. The magazine will continue to accept nominations for the class of 2016 until 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 12. The nomination form, which can be found HERE, requests basic information and can be supported with other material, such as a résumé, testimonials, and even press clippings highlighting an individual’s achievements in their profession or service to their community. An independent panel of judges will choose the winners, and their stories will be told in the April 18 issue. More details on the gala will be revealed in upcoming issues.

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Springfield Museums January Lectures, Tours

Jan. 14, 21, 28: The Springfield Museums’ monthly lecture and tour schedule continues in January with the popular Museums à la Carte lectures, which take place each Thursday at 12:15 p.m. in the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts. Admission is $4 ($2 for members of the Springfield Museums), and visitors are invited to bring a bag lunch (cookies and coffee are provided). For more information about Museums à la Carte, call (413) 263-6800, ext. 488. This month’s lectures include: Jan. 14: “Why, How, and the 343:  Better Angels, The Firefighters of 9/11” in which Dawn Howkinson Siebel, artist and creator of the “Better Angels” exhibit, shares her personal journey in creating this fascinating and powerful exhibit; Jan. 21: “Leaving Our Mark: In Celebration of the Pencil — Artist’s Words and Views,” in which Steve Wilda, artist and organizer of “Leaving Our Mark,” will be joined by other artists featured in the exhibit, including Doug Gillette, Bill Simpson, Lesley Cohen, and Luciana Heineman; and Jan. 28: “The Klondike Gold Rush: A Chicopee Man Goes to the Yukon in 1898 (and Back),” in which Robert Romer, professor emeritus at Amherst College, brings to life the story of Chicopee’s John Gibson, an Irish immigrant who set out for the Klondike to seek his fortune. As part of the Museums’ members-only “Continuing Conversations” series, museum docent Jim Boone will lead a guided gallery discussion immediately following the Jan. 14 talk at the Wood Museum of Springfield History, and docent Pat McCarthy will lead a post-lecture gallery discussion on Jan. 28 at the D’Amour Museum of Fine Art.

Choking Prevention

Jan. 18: Cooley Dickinson Hospital is offering an educational program for anyone who would like to learn how to respond to a basic choking emergency. The course is appropriate for those who work in the food-service industry or anyone who wants to learn basic choking-relief skills. For those who work in food service,  completion of this course satisfies 105 CMR 590.001 State Food Code requirements. The one-hour class costs $20 per person, and certification is good for two years. The class runs from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Dakin Conference Room at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. To register or for more information, call the Cooley Dickinson Professional Development Office at (413) 582-2400 or e-mail [email protected].

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The magazine’s editor and publishers have chosen this year’s class, which will be profiled in the Jan. 25 issue.

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‘Firearms of Famous People’

Through April 24: “Firearms of Famous People: From Target Shooters to Presidents,” a temporary exhibit of extraordinary firearms and memorabilia owned by well-known politicians, presidents, and celebrities, is now on view at the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. The exhibit, which was organized in cooperation with the Smith & Wesson Collectors Assoc., is on display through April 24, 2016 in a space adjacent to the Smith & Wesson Gallery of Historic Firearms. Admission prices are $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and college students, $9.50 for children 3-17, and free for children under 3 and museum members. The fee provides access to all four museums. General admission is free for Springfield residents with proof of address.

Gentle Yoga for Cancer Survivors

Starting Jan. 6: Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s (BFMC) Oncology Department will present three consecutive eight-week yoga classes called “Gentle Yoga for Cancer Survivors,” at the YMCA of Greenfield. The free classes will take place on Wednesdays from noon to 1:30 p.m., on Jan. 6 to Feb. 24, March 2 to April 20, and April 27 to June 15. The course facilitator is Pam Roberts, a certified Kripalu yoga teacher and a breast-cancer survivor for more than 20 years. Roberts is also a certified Yoga of the Heart for Cardiac and Cancer Patients instructor. The weekly gentle yoga classes, for individuals who have been living with a cancer diagnosis, consist of stretching, strengthening, and breathing and deep-relaxation exercises. One participant called the class “the best thing that has helped me after breast cancer.” Another said the class was “beneficial to my body, mind, and spirit.” Participants have found that the class helps with strengthening muscles and promoting relaxation. The yoga program is funded by BFMC’s annual Wheeling for Healing Bike Event, which supports oncology patients, programs, and services at Baystate Franklin. For more information or to register, contact Pam Roberts at (413) 625-2402 or [email protected].

Ruth’s House Blood Drive

Dec. 30: JGS Lifecare will host an American Red Cross blood drive from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ruth’s House Assisted Living Residence, 780 Converse St., Longmeadow. The American Red Cross and JGS Lifecare invite eligible donors to help ensure that blood is available for patients in need. To make an appointment, call (800) 733-2767 or visit redcrossblood.org. Walk-ins are also welcome with positive ID. All donors will receive a Red Cross long-sleeve T-shirt.

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The magazine’s editor and publishers have chosen this year’s class, which will be profiled in the Jan. 25 issue.

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Santa’s Trains at Look Park

Through Dec. 24: This holiday season, Look Memorial Park is celebrating with a selection of running model trains whirling by displays of a whimsical wonderland of Christmas favorites and village landscapes. The Garden House, transformed into a Victorian-style train station, offers sights and sounds of the holiday season. Chat with authentic engineers, view themed holiday trees, and visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus before relaxing with a holiday cookie and hot chocolate. Each evening features a special guest conductor and station master from the community. Santa’s helpers will be happy to deliver your letter to Santa personally and let him know you are ready to visit him. Santa’s Trains at Look Park is open to the public daily from Dec. 10 to Dec. 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. and on Dec. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This holiday event is free for all ages. Visit www.lookpark.org for information. Also, during Santa’s Trains at Look Park, step aboard the park’s train and take a one-mile ride on the Look Park Holiday Express to view more than 50 holiday light displays made by the park’s grounds and maintenance staff. The cost is $5. The train departs nightly every 20 minutes beginning at 4:20 p.m. The last departure is at 7:40 p.m. More than 20,000 visitors annually visit the park during the holiday season to visit Santa’s Trains, view the light displays, and share holiday dreams with Santa.

‘Firearms of Famous People’ at Museum

Through April 24: “Firearms of Famous People: From Target Shooters to Presidents,” a temporary exhibit of extraordinary firearms and memorabilia owned by well-known politicians, presidents, and celebrities, is now on view at the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. The exhibit, which was organized in cooperation with the Smith & Wesson Collectors Assoc., is on display through April 24, 2016 in a space adjacent to the Smith & Wesson Gallery of Historic Firearms. The exhibit includes three presidential pistols, including a .44 double-action Smith & Wesson revolver owned by Teddy Roosevelt, along with a belt knife used by Teddy’s Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War. Also featured is a .32 safety hammerless Smith & Wesson acquired by Franklin Delano Roosevelt when he was employed as an attorney in New York in the 1920s. The third presidential weapon is a .357 Magnum made especially for John F. Kennedy, featuring the handiwork of master engraver Alvin White. The revolver is fully engraved and inlaid with gold and silver, and bears the Great Seal of the U.S. on the side plate. This exhibit also includes three guns owned or used by movie stars, including a .32 caliber Smith & Wesson belonging to George Montgomery, well-known for his career as a film actor in many westerns. Clint Walker, best-known as the star of the Cheyenne TV series, owned a Smith & Wesson Model 3 that is on view. Also on display is a prop gun designed to look like a .45 caliber U.S. Army automatic pistol, used by Lee Marvin in the film Delta Force in 1986. Probably the two most famous gunmakers in the history of this country are Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson, and this exhibit features firearms connected to both of these innovators. Other firearms featured in this exhibit were owned by FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, Theodor Robert Geisel (the father of Dr. Seuss), and Christina Nilsson, one of the opera stars of the 19th century. Admission prices are $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and college students, $9.50 for children 3-17, and free for children under 3 and museum members. The fee provides access to all four museums. General admission is free for Springfield residents with proof of address.

‘Look Good…Feel Better’

Jan. 28: The Baystate Regional Cancer Program at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital and the American Cancer Society will present “Look Good…Feel Better,” a free program for area women from 10 a.m. to noon. The program teaches beauty techniques to women who are undergoing cancer treatment. The session offers support, information, and an enjoyable first step toward renewed self-esteem, self-confidence, and emotional recovery for cancer patients undergoing radiation or chemotherapy. Deb Rozzen, volunteer cosmetologist with the “Look Good…Feel Better” program, will be on hand to work with each woman and help them learn how to enhance their appearance using makeup techniques. Wig care, scarf and hat use, skin care, and nail care will all be discussed, and all participants will receive a free makeup kit. Sessions are limited to 12 people, are open to any woman undergoing cancer treatment in the area, and will be held at the hospital in Ware. Pre-registration by Tuesday, Dec. 22 is required by calling Camille St. Onge, oncology social worker at Baystate Mary Lane Hospital, at (413) 967-2245.

Difference Makers

March 31: The eighth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The magazine’s editor and publishers have chosen this year’s class, which will be profiled in the Jan. 25 issue.

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Lectures, Tours at Springfield Museums

December: The Springfield Museums’ monthly tour and lecture schedule continues in December with the popular Museums à la Carte lectures, which take place each Thursday at 12:15 p.m. in the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts. Admission is $4 ($2 for members of the Springfield Museums); visitors are invited to bring a bag lunch (cookies and coffee are provided). For more information about Museums à la Carte, call (413) 263-6800, ext. 488. This month’s lectures include “Secrets of Leonardo da Vinci’s Virgin of the Rocks Revealed” (Dec. 3), in which Andrew Linnell, author and lecturer from the University of Michigan, unlocks the riddles of da Vinci’s two mysterious paintings of the Virgin Mary; “Cabinets of Curiosity: Historical and Contemporary Interpretations” (Dec. 10), in which Heather Haskell, director of the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts and the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum, provides historical context for the current exhibit at the George Walter; and “The Star of Bethlehem: Investigating an Ancient Mystery” (Dec. 17), in which Richard Sanderson, curator of Physical Science, Springfield Science Museum, and Jack Megas, planetarium educator, Springfield Science Museum, explore one of history’s most enduring mysteries. No à la Carte lectures will be held on Dec. 24 or Dec. 31. As part of the Museums’ members-only Continuing Conversations series, museum docents Deena Maniscalchi and Pat McCarthy will also lead a guided gallery discussion at the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum following the Dec. 10 lecture. On Friday, Dec. 4, the Springfield Science Museum’s large rooftop telescope will be open for public skygazing at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Stars Over Springfield observatory series. These programs are organized by the museum and the Springfield Stars Club, and take place on the first Friday of each month. Each event features an introductory talk on topics such as space exploration, seasonal sights of the night sky, current astronomical research, or upcoming events like eclipses or comet appearances. This month’s featured speaker will be Alan Rifkin, Springfield Stars Club president, whose talk is titled, “Astronomy Gifts: All I Want for Christmas or Chanukah Is…” Stars Over Springfield programs are best suited for families with children ages 8 and older; however, younger children are also welcome. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for children 17 and under. These programs are held rain or shine. If it is cloudy, a planetarium show will be presented in place of telescope viewing. For information about astronomy programs at the museum, call (413) 263-6800, ext. 318.

 

Affordable Care Act Breakfast Seminar

Dec. 3: Insurance Center of New England (ICNE) will host a breakfast seminar covering a range of financial topics related to the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare. The seminar will be held at the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the seminar gets underway at 8:30 a.m. This event is free and open to the public, and a hot breakfast will be served. RSVP for the seminar by Monday, Nov. 23 by calling (413) 750-7150 or e-mailing Erika Noble at [email protected]. Keynote speakers for the seminar include Peter Whalen, regional manager for CheckWriters Payroll, who will be discussing IRS Forms 1094 and 1095, and Shemeka Browne-Pohlman, ACA compliance specialist with Insurance Center of New England, who will be discussing the so-called ‘Cadillac tax.’ “For 2016, another level of implementation is taking place with the Affordable Care Act, so it’s important for individuals, families, and business owners to stay informed of their rights and responsibilities under the act,” said William Trudeau, president and CEO of ICNE. “This seminar is another example of our commitment to serving as an information resource regarding the often-complex world of insurance.”

Amnesty Day for Computer Parts

Dec. 12: Goodwill Industries of the Pioneer Valley will hold an Amnesty Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at each of its eight retail stores in Hampden and Hampshire counties, as well as at the corporate office located at 570 Cottage St. in Springfield. Visit www.ourgoodwill.org for individual store information. Any brand of computer or computer components will be accepted at no charge to the donor through a partnership with Dell. This free program promotes responsible recycling while diverting e-waste from landfills. Dell Reconnect, as the partnership is called, makes getting rid of old technology easy as well as free. Make sure to remove your personal data from hard drives or other storage media before donating to Goodwill. Bring monitors, scanners, mice, printers, keyboards, speakers, cords, and cables. Television sets will not be accepted, however. “Dell has come up with an innovative way to reduce e-waste and recycle old computers,” said Steve Mundahl, Goodwill Industries president and CEO. “Previously, we had to charge consumers for each piece of electronics they wished to donate, as we were unable to find a suitable vendor. Partnering with Dell means this is now free to the consumer. And all donations help us forward our mission of helping people with disabilities and other barriers to employment get jobs.” In addition to its retail stores, Goodwill Industries of the Pioneer Valley offers employment and training programs, adult foster care, and community-based day services.

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SRC Government Reception

Nov. 19: The Springfield Regional Chamber will hold its annual Government Reception from 5 to 7 p.m. in the Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Sponsored by Baystate Health and Comcast with support from Columbia Gas of Massachusetts and Westfield State University, the reception provides business and community leaders with the opportunity to meet socially with local, state, and federal officials following the end of the formal legislative session. Last year, more than 200 people attended the event, including members of area select boards and city councils, as well as state representatives and senators. Reservations for the event are $50 for chamber members and $70 for general admission. To reserve a spot, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or e-mail Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

Neuroscientist to VisitSpringfield College

Nov. 19: The Springfield College Center for Wellness Education and Research (CWER) will host world-renowned neuroscientist and nutrition and diet expert Nicole Avena at 7 p.m. in the Fuller Arts Center. Avena’s presentation, “Why Diets Fail: Because You’re Addicted to Sugar,” will focus on years of research showing that sugar is addictive, and present a science-based plan to stop cravings. The event is free and open to the public. Author of more than 50 scholarly journal articles, Avena’s research suggests that overeating of palatable foods can produce changes in the brain and behavior that resemble addiction, findings that have jump-started an entire new field of exploration and discovery related to the obesity epidemic. She has presented her research to an array of audiences, including pharmaceutical companies, diabetes-prevention groups, food-industry marketing executives, nutrition groups, and obesity-education groups, and has contributed to articles in Men’s Health, Psychology Today, Bloomberg Businessweek, and WebMD. The New York Academy of Sciences, the American Psychological Assoc., and the National Institute on Drug Abuse have honored her research achievements. Housed in the Springfield College School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, CWER’s mission of is to serve as the region’s pre-eminent source for best practices in nutrition and physical-activity programming for young people.

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Western Mass. Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, a day-capping Expo Social, the annual pitch contest, robotics and machine tooling demonstrations, flu shots, and much more. Sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; Health New England, Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, MGM Springfield, and Wild Apple Design, director-level sponsors; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor; Peerless Precision, Smith & Wesson, the NTMS, and the Larry A. Maier Memorial Educational Fund as robotics and manufacturing sponsors, and Meyers Brothers Kalicka as entrepreneur sponsor. For more information, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or visit www.businesswest.com.

Senior Health Fair

Nov. 4: Baystate Franklin Medical Center and the YMCA of Greenfield will hold a Senior Health Fair and Functional Fitness Assessment from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the YMCA, 454 Main St. The event, for individuals age 60 and older, will feature a variety of screenings, fitness assessments, information stations, guest speakers, and healing modalities to explore. The event is free and open to the public; lunch will be provided at noon. YMCA staff will administer the functional fitness assessment, which includes six elements: lower body strength, upper body strength, aerobic endurance, lower body flexibility, upper body flexibility, and agility and balance. BFMC departments represented will include the Emergency Department, Medical-Surgical, Birthplace, Cardiopulmonary, Physical and Occupational Therapy, Audiology, Case Management, and Baystate Home Infusion, offering various screenings (such as hearing and balance testing), information on assistive devices, heart-healthy information, and Reiki and stroke education. Participants can test their healthcare knowledge with a ‘Wheel of Health’ game. In addition to YMCA and BFMC staff, vendors from other healthcare-related services will be exhibiting at the fair. During lunch, three guest speakers will be featured: Dr. Tom Higgins, interim president and CEO of Baystate Franklin Medical Center, speaking on senior health; cardiologist Dr. Heba Wassif, on what to monitor with new medications and the side effects they can cause; and nurse practitioner Pamela McLean, on cancer prevention. The event is free, but pre-registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, call (413) 773-3646, ext. 448, or register at the YMCA Welcome Center.

Spirit of Skiing Award

Nov. 7: Cal Conniff will be honored by the New England Ski Museum (NESM) at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The event is open to the public. NESM’s Spirit of Skiing Award is given to honor a skiing notable who manifests the motto, “skiing is not just a sport, it is a way of life,” attributed to ski pioneer Otto Schniebs. Previous winners include Olympic medalists Stein Eriksen and Penny Pitou, U.S. Olympians Tom Corcoran and Tyler Palmer, Killington Ski Resort founder Preston Smith, renowned ski instructor Herbert Schneider, and ski-show impresario Bernie Weichsel. Conniff spent his professional life working for the betterment of the ski-area industry, managing the Mt. Tom Ski Area from 1968 to 1973. He put the small facility on the national map by developing extensive night skiing and one of the earliest snow-making systems in the country in the 1960s, two innovations that were soon emulated throughout the resort industry. During his tenure at Mt. Tom, Conniff targeted the youth market, introducing thousands to the thrill of downhill skiing through numerous school programs. Conniff took over leadership of the National Ski Areas Assoc. in 1973, moving its offices from New York City to West Hartford, Conn. and ultimately downtown Springfield in 1978, where it remained until his retirement in 1990. He now lives in Wells, Maine. Conniff was an accomplished ski racer in college and won the four-way combined championships for the American Armed Forces in Europe when he was stationed in Germany in the 1950s. A graduate of American International College (AIC), he hosted a TV show on WWLP called Skiers’ Corner. He was inducted into AIC’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011, and to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame in 1990. He is the former president of the New England Ski Museum, where an annual grants program was established in his name. Tickets to the event, which starts at 5 p.m., cost $75 and available by calling the NESM at (603) 823-7177 or visiting www.skimuseum.com/events. Proceeds support the museum’s mission to preserve the history of skiing.

Neuroscientist to Visit Springfield College

Nov. 19: The Springfield College Center for Wellness Education and Research (CWER) will host world-renowned neuroscientist and nutrition and diet expert Nicole Avena at 7 p.m. in the Fuller Arts Center. Avena’s presentation, “Why Diets Fail: Because You’re Addicted to Sugar,” will focus on years of research showing that sugar is addictive, and present a science-based plan to stop cravings. The event is free and open to the public. Author of more than 50 scholarly journal articles, Avena’s research suggests that overeating of palatable foods can produce changes in the brain and behavior that resemble addiction, findings that have jump-started an entire new field of exploration and discovery related to the obesity epidemic. She has presented her research to an array of audiences, including pharmaceutical companies, diabetes-prevention groups, food-industry marketing executives, nutrition groups, and obesity-education groups, and has contributed to articles in Men’s Health, Psychology Today, Bloomberg Businessweek, and WebMD. The New York Academy of Sciences, the American Psychological Assoc., and the National Institute on Drug Abuse have honored her research achievements. Housed in the Springfield College School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation, CWER’s mission of is to serve as the region’s pre-eminent source for best practices in nutrition and physical-activity programming for young people.

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Warm Up the Night

Oct. 22: The Family Outreach of Amherst will host its fourth annual Warm Up the Night event from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Lord Jeffery Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. The tent at Lord Jeffery Inn will be transformed into a strolling culinary extravaganza. Enjoy delicious small bites, sips, and tastes from an eclectic mix of local food vendors, including 30Boltwood, Bistro 63 at the Monkey Bar, the Blue Heron, Bread and Butter, Carr’s Ciderhouse, the Alvah Stone, Jasper Hill Farm, Sun Kim Bop Food Truck, and more. Features this year include a pig roast, live music by musicians the Winterpills and Roger Salloom, and a special appearance by local guitar legend J Mascis. Tickets are $45 per person. Visit www.chd/familyoutreach for more information or to register, or contact Rachel Condry at (413) 548-1272 or [email protected].

Survivor Journeys Halloween Gala

Oct. 30: Survivor Journeys invites the community to its first annual Halloween Gala at 6 p.m. at Storrowton Tavern Carriage House. The cost of the gala is $50 per person and includes dinner, music, and dancing. A cash bar will be available. Entertainment includes psychic mediums Nicky Taylor and Drianna Buonaducci, as well as practitioners from the Feeding Hills Wellness Center. Costumes are optional. Survivor Journeys provides social and emotional support services to cancer survivors, families, and caregivers. Services are built on collaboration with local providers and cancer survivors, along with regional and nationally recognized cancer organizations. Survivor Journeys, which serves adults, young adults, and pediatric cancer survivors, was co-founded by Dr. Jay Burton, founder and medical director of the Primary Care Cancer Survivorship Program of Western New England, and Maryann Palealogoupolus, a licensed independent clinical social worker. Survivor Journeys also announced that the organization will benefit from the generosity of S. Prestley and Helen Blake, who have offered a $25,000 matching grant challenge to the organization. The Blakes will match all funds raised by the end of year, up to $25,000. Visit survivorjourneys.org to register for the gala or for more information about support groups and developing programs.

Western Mass.Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social (see the special section in this issue for details). Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; Health New England, Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, MGM Springfield, and Wild Apple Design, director-level sponsors; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor; and Peerless Precision, robotics and manufacturing sponsor . Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

Spirit of Skiing Award

Nov. 7: Cal Conniff will be honored by the New England Ski Museum (NESM) at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The event is open to the public. NESM’s Spirit of Skiing Award is given to honor a skiing notable who manifests the motto, “skiing is not just a sport, it is a way of life,” attributed to ski pioneer Otto Schniebs. Previous winners include Olympic medalists Stein Eriksen and Penny Pitou, U.S. Olympians Tom Corcoran and Tyler Palmer, Killington Ski Resort founder Preston Smith, renowned ski instructor Herbert Schneider, and ski-show impresario Bernie Weichsel. Conniff spent his professional life working for the betterment of the ski-area industry, managing the Mt. Tom Ski Area from 1968 to 1973. He put the small facility on the national map by developing extensive night skiing and one of the earliest snow-making systems in the country in the 1960s, two innovations that were soon emulated throughout the resort industry. During his tenure at Mt. Tom, Conniff targeted the youth market, introducing thousands to the thrill of downhill skiing through numerous school programs. Conniff took over leadership of the National Ski Areas Assoc. in 1973, moving its offices from New York City to West Hartford, Conn. and ultimately downtown Springfield in 1978, where it remained until his retirement in 1990. He was inducted into AIC’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2011, and to the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame in 1990. Tickets to the Nov. 7 event, which starts at 5 p.m., cost $75 and are available by calling the NESM at (603) 823-7177 or visiting www.skimuseum.com/events.

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Rake in the Business Table Top Expo

Oct. 13: The Springfield Regional Chamber is once again partnering with the Greater Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce on the 18th annual Rake in the Business Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Castle of Knights, 460 Granby Road, Chicopee, sponsored by Nuvo Bank & Trust Co. The expo provides local vendors an affordable opportunity to exhibit products and services to consumers. Last year, more than 100 vendors participated in the event, including photographers, marketing firms, staffing firms, banks, entertainment venues, and health insurers. Exhibitor space is available for $125, which entitles the exhibitor to an eight-foot, skirted display table and two complimentary entry passes. Electricity is limited but available upon request. The Table Top Expo is open to all chamber members as well as the general public for a nominal fee of $5 per person in advance, $10 at the door. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com. The event is sponsored by platinum sponsors Health New England, PeoplesBank, MedExpress Urgent Care, and Noble Visiting Nurse and Hospice Services; gold sponsors Nuvo Bank, Peoples United Bank, and BusinessWest; and silver sponsors Spectrum Business, Chicopee Savings Bank, Elms College, Dave’s Truck Repair, the Republican, Easthampton Savings Bank, and First American Insurance Agency. For more information or to exhibit, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected] or (413) 755-1313.

Women’s Fund Men of the Year Award

Oct. 13: The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts (WFWM) will celebrate its inaugural Men of the Year Award recipients from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. The Women’s Fund Men of the Year Award will honor three men from our region who, in their professional or personal lives, have made significant contributions to ensure economic and social equity for women and girls. More than 200 participants are expected to attend, including local and state elected officials. The event is open to the public and will include craft beers, dinner, and live music. Tickets cost $65 and may be purchased online at www.womensfund.net. “We are thrilled to host this inaugural awards event that will highlight how men are working with us to create a better world for women and girls,” said WFWM CEO Elizabeth Barajas-Román. “Together, we can make a difference.” The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts is a public foundation that invests in local women and girls through strategic grant making and leadership development. Since 1997, the Women’s Fund has awarded more than $2 million in grants to nearly 100 organizations in the region.

Warm Up the Night

Oct. 22: The Family Outreach of Amherst will host its fourth annual Warm Up the Night event from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Lord Jeffery Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. The tent at Lord Jeffery Inn will be transformed into a strolling culinary extravaganza. Enjoy delicious small bites, sips, and tastes from an eclectic mix of local food vendors, including 30Boltwood, Bistro 63 at the Monkey Bar, the Blue Heron, Bread and Butter, Carr’s Ciderhouse, the Alvah Stone, Jasper Hill Farm, Sun Kim Bop Food Truck, and more. Features this year include a pig roast, live music by musicians the Winterpills and Roger Salloom, and a special appearance by local guitar legend J Mascis. Tickets are $45 per person. Visit www.chd/familyoutreach for more information or to register, or contact Rachel Condry at (413) 548-1272 or [email protected].

Western Mass. Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs (the former featuring Harpoon Brewery CEO Dan Kenary as keynote speaker), and a day-capping Expo Social. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; Health New England, Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, MGM Springfield, and Wild Apple Design Group, director-level sponsors; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Better Business Bureau, professional sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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STCC Diversity Series

Sept. 30: Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) will kick off its 2015-16 Diversity Series with an appearance from bestselling author and youth advocate Wes Moore at 11 a.m. in the Scibelli Hall gymnasium. Moore — a veteran, Rhodes scholar, and founder of BridgeEDU — has authored several successful books, including The Work: My Search for a Life That Matters; The Other Wes Moore: One Name, Two Fates; Discovering Wes Moore; and Forcefully Advancing. Moore has been featured by USA Today, Time, People, Meet the Press, The Colbert Report, MSNBC, and NPR. He is the host of Beyond Belief on the Oprah Winfrey Network and is the executive producer and host of PBS’s Coming Back with Wes Moore, which focuses on the reintegration of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans and their return home. As the founder and CEO of BridgeEDU, an innovative college platform that addresses the college-completion and job-placement crisis, Moore created the program to reinvent freshman year in a way that gives students real-world internship and service-learning opportunities as well as core academic classes. Moore’s appearance is made possible through the support of Baystate Health, MassMutual, PeoplesBank, An African-American Point of View, the city of Springfield Department of Health and Human Services, the STCC Black Professionals Group, and the STCC Diversity Council. The event is free and open to the public. An author signing will be held at 9:30 a.m., and copies of Moore’s books will be available for purchase. For additional information, call Myra Smith at (413) 755-4414. For a complete listing of STCC Diversity Series events, visit www.stcc.edu/diversity.

Get On Board!

Oct. 8: OnBoard, a Springfield-based nonprofit organization that matches qualified individuals and area boards of directors, is inviting local organizations and businesses to participate or become a sponsor in the “Get On Board!” event in October. The event, to be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, will connect local organizations with individuals looking to increase their community involvement. OnBoard was founded in the mid-’90s by attorney Ellen Freyman of Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin, P.C. The group’s mission is to help organizations expand their governance diversity by enlisting women, people of color, and other under-represented populations to their boards of directors/trustees, committees, and advisory groups. OnBoard has been connecting qualified people in the Greater Springfield area with organizations seeking leadership that reflects the diversity of the region. The cost for organizations to register to participate in the event is $125. As a nonprofit organization itself, OnBoard relies on the support of local businesses in order to hold ‘Get On Board.’ A number of funding options are available to local businesses who are interested in contributing to the event, including a $500 community-partner sponsorship and a $1,000 general-sponsorship opportunity. To register or become a business sponsor, visit www.diversityonboard.org.

Rake in the Business Table Top Expo

Oct. 13: The Springfield Regional Chamber is once again partnering with the Greater Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce on the 18th annual Rake in the Business Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Castle of Knights, 460 Granby Road, Chicopee, sponsored by Nuvo Bank & Trust Co. The expo provides local vendors an affordable opportunity to exhibit products and services to consumers. Last year, more than 100 vendors participated in the event, including photographers, marketing firms, staffing firms, banks, entertainment venues, and health insurers. Exhibitor space is available for $125, which entitles the exhibitor to an eight-foot, skirted display table and two complimentary entry passes. Electricity is limited but available upon request. The Table Top Expo is open to all chamber members as well as the general public for a nominal fee of $5 per person in advance, $10 at the door. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com. The event is sponsored by platinum sponsors Health New England, PeoplesBank, MedExpress Urgent Care, and Noble Visiting Nurse and Hospice Services; gold sponsors Nuvo Bank, Peoples United Bank, and BusinessWest; and silver sponsors Spectrum Business, Chicopee Savings Bank, Elms College, Dave’s Truck Repair, the Republican, Easthampton Savings Bank, and First American Insurance Agency. For more information or to exhibit, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected] or (413) 755-1313.

HRU Recognition Event

Oct. 15: Human Resources Unlimited will present its annual Recognition and Fund-raiser Event at Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. Breakfast begins at 7:30 a.m., and the program runs from 7:45 to 9 a.m. The Sheldon B. Brooks Employer Lifetime Achievement Award will be given to YMCA of Greater Westfield; the Employer of the Year Award will be presented to Harrington Memorial Hospital; the Rookie Employer Award will be given to Plastipak Packaging; and the Armand Tourangeau Volunteer of the Year is John Ernst. RSVP by Friday, Oct. 2 at [email protected] or (413) 781-5359. The breakfast is by invitation only, and seating is limited to the first 200 people. The suggested minimum donation is $100. Proper business attire (jackets for gentlemen) is required. The gold sponsors are Hub International (formerly FieldEddy Insurance) and United Bank, and BusinessWest is the media sponsor.

Western Mass. Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 150 companies, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs (the former featuring Harpoon Brewery CEO Dan Kenary as keynote speaker), and a day-capping Expo Social. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; Health New England, Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, MGM Springfield, and Wild Apple Design, director-level sponsors; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Elms College, information-center sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Northampton Jazz Festival

Sept. 8-12: The 2015 Northampton Jazz Festival will begin Tuesday, Sept. 8 with a performance at the Northampton Jazz Workshop and various other performances during that week, culminating with the main-stage, all-day event on Saturday, Sept. 12. The main concert event will take place from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Northampton on Hampton Avenue, behind Thornes Marketplace. At Saturday’s signature performance, which is free and open to the public, featured performers will include the Gretchen Parlato & Lionel Loueke Duo, the Zaccai Curtis Latin Jazz Quartet featuring Ray Vega, the Edmar Casteneda Trio, Pete McGuinness, the Jeff Holmes Quartet, and the Franz Robert/Benny Woodard Trio featuring Conner Duke. Paul Arslanian, co-creative director of the Northampton Jazz Festival, said the lineup for this year’s main event is unique from that of previous years. “We’re featuring young, unique voices and artists who are exploring different avenues of jazz. We’re hoping to showcase a wide variety of jazz genres.” The week’s events begin Tuesday, Sept. 8 with a performance by tenor saxophonist Felipe Salles at the Northampton Jazz Workshop at the Loft at the Clarion Hotel, starting at 7:30 p.m. Saxophone students from UMass Amherst will be performing with Salles, along with the Green Street Trio. From Wednesday, Sept. 9 to Friday, Sept. 11, Downtown Struts are planned in Amherst, Easthampton, and Northampton, respectively. The struts will give music lovers a chance to explore many different venues in each town and hear local and regional jazz musicians perform. David Picchi, co-creative director of the Northampton Jazz Festival alongside Arslanian, said performers for the Amherst Downtown Strut on Wednesday, Sept. 9 are still being finalized. However, Free Range Cats will be one of the bands featured. On Thursday, Sept. 10, the Easthampton Downtown Strut, which will commence at 5:30 p.m., will feature the Pangeans in front of the Old Town Hall, the Nancy Janoson Trio at Galaxy, and the Carol Smith Trio at Nini’s Ristorante. The Northampton Downtown Strut on Friday, Sept. 11 will include seven additional bands, starting at 6 p.m.: Mtali Banda Oneness Project on the Northampton Court House lawn, the O-Tones at McLadden’s, the Claire Arenius Trio at One Bar & Grill, the Scott Mullett Trio at the Deck Bar, the Jeremy Turgeon Quartet at Ibiza Tapas Wine Bar, FlavaEvolution at Sierra Grille, and Mammal Dap at Bishop’s Lounge. The main performances on Saturday, Sept. 12 will kick off with the Jazz Futures Stage on the Hampshire Courthouse Lawn with student bands from six local schools: UMass Amherst, Amherst College, Holyoke Community College, Greenfield Community College, Pioneer Valley Performing Arts High School, and Northampton Community Music Center. The Saturday main-stage concert will be hosted by two notable emcees from New England Public Radio. Tom Reney, host of the radio show Jazz à la Mode, will announce the performers in the first half of the festival, followed by Kari Njiiri, host of Jazz Safari and a senior news reporter for NEPR. In addition, at least 10 food trucks will be on site to offer such fare as pizza, sausage, organic burgers, and ice cream throughout the day. The second annual Northampton Jazz Festival Home Brew Challenge will take place from 3 to 5 p.m.; regional home brewers will have an opportunity to put their brews to the test with guest tasters. For more information or to help sponsor the event, contact Yvonne Mendez at [email protected]. Jazz fans can get more information at www.njfest.org. Major sponsors include Baystate Urgent Care, TD Bank, North Coast Brewing Co., Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz, UMass Fine Arts Center, Northampton Arts Council, MassLive, McLadden’s, Northampton Jazz Workshop, Silverscape Designs, Florence Bank, the Artisan Gallery, Hampshire Hospitality Group, the Clarion Hotel, 90+ Cellars, Delap Real Estate, Lia Auto Group, Log Cabin/Delaney, Thornes Marketplace, and Daury Wealth Management.

Diversity & Inclusion Interactive Workshop

Sept. 10: Exploring unconscious bias will be the topic for discussion at the 2015 Diversity & Inclusion Interactive Workshop, sponsored by Baystate Health, to be conducted Thursday, Sept. 10 at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The event is open to the public. Participants can select either the morning session from 7:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. or a repeated session from 1 to 5:45 p.m. “At Baystate Health, we understand that diversity and inclusion are a business imperative. In alignment with our business and development goals, and in support of the community, we are pleased to offer hands-on education and best-practice workshops to the region’s diversity champions and leaders, including our own employees,” said Dr. Mark Keroack, president and CEO of Baystate Health. During the half-day interactive learning experience, skills will be gained in decision making, building inclusive teams and cultures, intercultural communications, and increasing employee engagement. Attendees will have an opportunity to better understand the science, research, and impact of unconscious bias; become aware of their own background and its impact on individual perceptions; explore functions of the unconscious mind and their impact in the workplace; apply new strategies for practicing more conscious awareness to concrete action steps; and recognize the business case for a reinvented approach to diversity and inclusion. Presenters include principal consultant and keynote speaker Rosalyn Taylor O’Neale, who will be joined by Armers Moncure, Joe Gerstandt, and Melanie Miller, all from Cook Ross, a premier diversity and inclusion consulting firm. Registration, which includes parking, is $150. To register, visit baystatehealth.org, then click “About Us,” then click “Diversity and Inclusion.” For more information, call (413) 794-7722.

Walk for Love Walkathon and Barbecue

Sept. 12: Come celebrate the 90th anniversary of Shriners Hospitals for Children in Springfield at the sixth annual Walk for Love Walkathon and Barbecue. This easy, three-mile walk begins at the hospital and continues through Van Horn Park and back to the hospital for a barbecue. The day of family fun includes Shrine clowns, Zoo on the Go, K-9s for Kids, face painting, a photo booth, music, food, and more. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and the walk begins at 10 a.m.The barbecue and entertainment run from 11 a.m. to 1:30 
p.m. The event will be held rain or shine. Registration fee for walkers and non-walkers alike is $25 per person,
$5 for children 12 and under, and $40 per family. A waiver must be signed to participate in the walkathon. No pets are allowed, except for service animals. Free parking will be available at the Boys and Girls Club located directly across from Shriners Hospital on Carew Street. All proceeds from this event benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children in Springfield. Register online at www.walkforlove.org. Forms will also be available on the day of the walk. For additional information, contact Lee Roberts, the hospital’s public relations specialist, at (413) 755-2307 or [email protected].

Dinner Forum on Business Decision Making

Sept. 16: The UMass Amherst Family Business Center will present a dinner forum from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Northampton. The program is called “Effective Business Decision Making in the Fast-changing Environment of the 21st Century.” How many decisions do you make in the course of each business day? How often are they based on a gut feeling, versus measurable, relevant data? How accurate is your gut, and how well can you really tune into it? And how do you know which data is accurate, not to mention relevant? How can you be sure you’re considering all the consequences? Are you reaching for solutions that worked before, not sure they’re what is needed for more complex dilemmas? Are you influenced by biases you’re not even aware of? This presentation could help you, by exploring the practical aspects of the latest research on effective decision making and how family and closely held businesses are using it to create success. Presenters include Vana Nespor, chief learning officer and dean of Online and Adult Studies at Bay Path University, and Tom Loper, associate provost and dean of Bay Path’s graduate Business program. Call Ira Bryck, Family Business Center director, at (413) 545-4545 for more information.

Status Report on Casinos

Sept. 18: Stephen Crosby, Massachusetts Gaming Commission chair, will be the keynote speaker for the upcoming Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce September Breakfast. His presentation is titled “A Status Report on Casinos in Massachusetts — and What is Unique About Them.” The breakfast will be hosted by the 104th Fighter Wing located at 175 Falcon Dr., Westfield. Baystate Noble Hospital is the platinum sponsor. The gold sponsor is United Bank, and the silver sponsors are Tighe & Bond and United Way of Pioneer Valley. The coffee-bar sponsor is Spherion Staffing. Registration begins at 7 a.m.; breakfast will be served at 7:20 a.m., and the program will end by 9 a.m. The cost is $25 for chamber members and $30 for non-members. Registration is mandatory for the breakfast, and a driver’s license is required for entry onto the ANG base. Contact Pam Bussell at (413) 568-1618 to reserve tickets or to donate a door prize, or e-mail [email protected].

‘Fall Back in Time’ at Holyoke Merry-Go-Round

Sept. 18: The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round, the prized carousel with a storied history that dates back to the early 1900s, announced a “Fall Back in Time” fund-raiser to remember the magic of Mountain Park, to be held at the carousel site, 221 Appleton St., from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for the event, which will support the ongoing maintenance and operation of the ride. The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round — also known as Holyoke’s Happiness Machine — has delighted children and families since the 1920s, when it was featured at Mountain Park, an amusement park on the side of Mount Tom. The carousel arrived in Holyoke for the 1929 season and remained in Mountain Park until its closure in 1987. The fund-raiser will feature food and a cash bar prepared by the Log Cabin; live music including sax player Tom Tisdell, his musicians, and a banjo player; train rides to the mall and back provided by the Pioneer Valley Railroad; and carousel rides. Tickets are $45 per person or $400 for a table of 10. A grand raffle will also be held, with $8,000 in prizes: $5,000 for first place, $2,000 for second place, and $1,000 for third place. Raffle tickets are $100 each. Event and raffle tickets are available now at the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round concession or by calling Meghan O’Connor at (413) 427-7629 or Susan Leary at (413) 592-7573. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (413) 538-9838 or visit holyokemerrygoround.org.

Mutts & Mimosas

Sept. 20: Dakin Humane Society has been awarded a $7,500 grant from the Petco Foundation as the Top Dog sponsor of Dakin’s annual fund-raiser, Mutts & Mimosas. The brunch event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Quonquont Farm & Orchard in Whately, rain or shine. Guests, who are encouraged to bring their dogs, can enjoy a make-your-own mimosa bar, live traditional Irish music, a raffle and silent auction, apple-picking, dog-walking trails, and other fun activities. The food will be catered by Seth Mias, and an optional dog meal is available for $10. Event attendees are asked to bring dry or canned cat food to support Dakin’s Pet Food Bank program. Tickets are $50 per person and can be ordered online at www.dakinhumane.org or by calling event manager Gina Ciprari at (413) 781-4000, ext. 136. According to Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris, “Mutts & Mimosas has become a tradition among Dakin supporters and dog enthusiasts around the region, and we’re happy to know that they look forward to coming to this event with their dogs each year. With Petco Foundation’s support, we will be able to leverage other donations to Mutts & Mimosas and extend our services to more animals and their people.” Other sponsors for Mutts & Mimosas include Gage-Wiley & Co. Inc., Walter’s Propane, Sarah’s Pet Services, Rice Family Foundation, Five Star Building Corp., WHMP, WMAS, Western Mass News, MassLive.com, and Quonquont Farm & Orchard.

Get On Board!

Oct. 8: OnBoard, a Springfield-based nonprofit organization that matches qualified individuals and area boards of directors, is inviting local organizations and businesses to participate or become a sponsor in the “Get On Board!” event in October. The event, to be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, will connect local organizations with individuals looking to increase their community involvement. OnBoard was founded in the mid-’90s by attorney Ellen Freyman of Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin, P.C. The group’s mission is to help organizations expand their governance diversity by enlisting women, people of color, and other under-represented populations to their boards of directors/trustees, committees, and advisory groups. OnBoard has been connecting qualified people in the Greater Springfield area with organizations seeking leadership that reflects the diversity of the region. “Our goal with ‘Get On Board!’ is to facilitate an introduction of new talent and organizations around Greater Springfield,” said Freyman. “Diversifying your board of directors by recruiting members of under-represented populations can provide you with insight into different ways to engage with the community at large. Our goal is to create new relationships for both the individuals and the organizations who will benefit from each other’s resources and experience.” The cost for organizations to register to participate in the event is $100 before Aug. 31 and $125 if submitted after Aug. 31. As a nonprofit organization itself, OnBoard relies on the support of local businesses in order to hold ‘Get On Board.’ A number of funding options are available to local businesses who are interested in contributing to the event, including a $500 community-partner sponsorship and a $1,000 general-sponsorship opportunity. To register or become a business sponsor, visit www.diversityonboard.org.

Williamstown Film Festival Presents Wind-Up Fest

Oct. 15-18: The annual Williamstown Film Festival (WFF), now in its 17th year, welcomes big changes with new faces, a new name, and new programming focus. Slated for Oct. 15-18, WFF Presents: Wind-Up Fest is a nonfiction festival with documentary film as its backbone. Other forms of nonfiction will be in conversation with documentaries, including long-form journalism, radio podcasts, photography, and social-practice art. The event’s new artistic director, Paul Sturtz, is also the co-director at the True/False Film Fest in Columbia, Mo., and its new managing director, Sandra Thomas, is the former executive director of Images Cinema in Williamstown. “Our aim is to provide a unique, distinctive event for North Adams and Williamstown while serving as a destination festival for lovers of nonfiction. We are living in a time when nonfiction storytelling is offering one of the most vital, urgent ways forward,” Sturtz said. The festival will be curated by Sturtz, who was selected (along with his True/False co-director David Wilson) as one of 40 people in the inaugural Indiewire Influencers list, described as “visionaries that are changing the course of film.” With the addition of Sturtz and return of Thomas, the board of directors announced the retirement of festival Executive Director Steve Lawson. The festival has offices in North Adams and Williamstown and can reached at [email protected] or (413) 458-9700.

51st Anniversary Noble Ball

Oct. 17: Baystate Noble Hospital is preparing for the 51st Anniversary Noble Ball co-chaired by the Queenin family: Kevin, Barbara, Jay, Janine, Jon and Lisa. “Magic of Motown – Motor City Review” will take place the MassMutual Center in Springfield. More than 800 guests are expected to attend the black-tie event, which will feature live entertainment, silent and live auctions, formal dinner, cocktails, dancing, and more. Since the first ball in 1959, the Hospital has used this signature event to raise money for operating funds, building improvements, equipment purchases, and more. Proceeds from this year’s ball will be added to last year’s funds and used to enhance Baystate Noble’s entrance and reception area to provide updated ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access. “Our goal is to make Baystate Noble easily accessible for all,” said Allison Gearing-Kalill, vice president of Community Development. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.baystatenoblehospital.org/ball or e-mail [email protected].

Western Mass. Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs (the former featuring Harpoon Brewery CEO Dan Kenary as keynote speaker), and a day-capping Expo Social. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; Health New England, Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, MGM Springfield, and Wild Apple Design, director-level sponsors; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Elms College, information-center sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Walk for Love Walkathon and Barbecue

Sept. 12: Come celebrate the 90th anniversary of Shriners Hospitals for Children in Springfield at the sixth annual Walk for Love Walkathon and Barbecue. This easy, three-mile walk begins at the hospital and continues through Van Horn Park and back to the hospital for a barbecue. The day of family fun includes Shrine clowns, Zoo on the Go, K-9s for Kids, face painting, a photo booth, music, food, and more. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and the walk begins at 10 a.m.The barbecue and entertainment run from 11 a.m. to 1:30 
p.m. The event will be held rain or shine. Registration fee for walkers and non-walkers alike is $25 per person,
$5 for children 12 and under, and $40 per family. A waiver must be signed to participate in the walkathon. No pets are allowed, except for service animals. Free parking will be available at the Boys and Girls Club located directly across from Shriners Hospital on Carew Street. All proceeds from this event benefit Shriners Hospitals for Children in Springfield. Register online at www.walkforlove.org. Forms will also be available on the day of the walk. For additional information, contact Lee Roberts, the hospital’s public relations specialist, at (413) 755-2307 or [email protected].

Dinner Forum on Business Decision Making

Sept. 16: The UMass Amherst Family Business Center will present a dinner forum from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel and Conference Center in Northampton. The program is called “Effective Business Decision Making in the Fast-changing Environment of the 21st Century.” How many decisions do you make in the course of each business day? How often are they based on a gut feeling, versus measurable, relevant data? How accurate is your gut, and how well can you really tune into it? And how do you know which data is accurate, not to mention relevant? How can you be sure you’re considering all the consequences? Are you reaching for solutions that worked before, not sure they’re what is needed for more complex dilemmas? Are you influenced by biases you’re not even aware of? This presentation could help you, by exploring the practical aspects of the latest research on effective decision making and how family and closely held businesses are using it to create success. Presenters include Vana Nespor, chief learning officer and dean of Online and Adult Studies at Bay Path University, and Tom Loper, associate provost and dean of Bay Path’s graduate Business program. Call Ira Bryck, Family Business Center director, at (413) 545-4545 for more information.

‘Fall Back in Time’ at Holyoke Merry-Go-Round

Sept. 18: The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round, the prized carousel with a storied history that dates back to the early 1900s, announced a “Fall Back in Time” fund-raiser to remember the magic of Mountain Park, to be held at the carousel site, 221 Appleton St., from 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for the event, which will support the ongoing maintenance and operation of the ride. The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round — also known as Holyoke’s Happiness Machine — has delighted children and families since the 1920s, when it was featured at Mountain Park, an amusement park on the side of Mount Tom. “The merry-go-round plays a vital role in the history of Holyoke, and our residents should be proud of their efforts to preserve it,” said Angela Wright, executive director. “The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round is a nonprofit that is totally self-supporting and does not receive city, state, or federal funding to maintain its operation. We rely on our annual preservation fund, donations, and various fund-raising events to keep the carousel spinning.” The fund-raiser will feature food and a cash bar prepared by the Log Cabin; live music including sax player Tom Tisdell, his musicians, and a banjo player; train rides to the mall and back provided by the Pioneer Valley Railroad; and carousel rides. Tickets are $45 per person or $400 for a table of 10. A grand raffle will also be held, with $8,000 in prizes: $5,000 for first place, $2,000 for second place, and $1,000 for third place. Raffle tickets are $100 each. Event and raffle tickets are available now at the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round concession or by calling Meghan O’Connor at (413) 427-7629 or Susan Leary at (413) 592-7573. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (413) 538-9838 or visit holyokemerrygoround.org.

Mutts & Mimosas

Sept. 20: Dakin Humane Society has been awarded a $7,500 grant from the Petco Foundation as the Top Dog sponsor of Dakin’s annual fund-raiser, Mutts & Mimosas. The brunch event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Quonquont Farm & Orchard in Whately, rain or shine. Guests, who are encouraged to bring their dogs, can enjoy a make-your-own mimosa bar, live traditional Irish music, a raffle and silent auction, apple-picking, dog-walking trails, and other fun activities. The food will be catered by Seth Mias, and an optional dog meal is available for $10. Event attendees are asked to bring dry or canned cat food to support Dakin’s Pet Food Bank program. Tickets are $50 per person and can be ordered online at www.dakinhumane.org or by calling event manager Gina Ciprari at (413) 781-4000, ext. 136. According to Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris, “this generous grant from Petco Foundation will help us to produce an effective — and memorable — fund-raiser. Mutts & Mimosas has become a tradition among Dakin supporters and dog enthusiasts around the region, and we’re happy to know that they look forward to coming to this event with their dogs each year. With Petco Foundation’s support, we will be able to leverage other donations to Mutts & Mimosas and extend our services to more animals and their people.” The Petco Foundation has served as a voice for companion animals across the country since 1999. Today, with more than 8,000 local animal welfare partners across the country, the foundation donates approximately $15 million a year to make a difference in the lives of millions of animals. Money raised helps fund animal-welfare organizations, spay-and-neuter efforts, animal-assisted therapy programs, and humane education. The majority of the funds raised remain in the communities where they were raised, as well as benefiting animal-welfare efforts nationwide. Other sponsors for Mutts & Mimosas include Gage-Wiley & Co. Inc., Walter’s Propane, Sarah’s Pet Services, Rice Family Foundation, Five Star Building Corp., WHMP, WMAS, Western Mass News, MassLive.com, and Quonquont Farm & Orchard.

Get On Board!

Oct. 8: OnBoard, a Springfield-based nonprofit organization that matches qualified individuals and area boards of directors, is inviting local organizations and businesses to participate or become a sponsor in the “Get On Board!” event in October. The event, to be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, will connect local organizations with individuals looking to increase their community involvement. OnBoard was founded in the mid-’90s by attorney Ellen Freyman of Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin, P.C. The group’s mission is to help organizations expand their governance diversity by enlisting women, people of color, and other under-represented populations to their boards of directors/trustees, committees, and advisory groups. OnBoard has been connecting qualified people in the Greater Springfield area with organizations seeking leadership that reflects the diversity of the region. “Our goal with ‘Get On Board!’ is to facilitate an introduction of new talent and organizations around Greater Springfield,” said Freyman. “Diversifying your board of directors by recruiting members of under-represented populations can provide you with insight into different ways to engage with the community at large. Our goal is to create new relationships for both the individuals and the organizations who will benefit from each other’s resources and experience.” The cost for organizations to register to participate in the event is $100 before Aug. 31 and $125 if submitted after Aug. 31. As a nonprofit organization itself, OnBoard relies on the support of local businesses in order to hold ‘Get On Board.’ A number of funding options are available to local businesses who are interested in contributing to the event, including a $500 community-partner sponsorship and a $1,000 general-sponsorship opportunity. To register or become a business sponsor, visit www.diversityonboard.org.

Williamstown Film Festival Presents Wind-Up Fest

Oct. 15-18: The annual Williamstown Film Festival (WFF), now in its 17th year, welcomes big changes with new faces, a new name, and new programming focus. Slated for Oct. 15-18, WFF Presents: Wind-Up Fest is a nonfiction festival with documentary film as its backbone. Other forms of nonfiction will be in conversation with documentaries, including long-form journalism, radio podcasts, photography, and social-practice art. The event’s new artistic director, Paul Sturtz, is also the co-director at the True/False Film Fest in Columbia, Mo., and its new managing director, Sandra Thomas, is the former executive director of Images Cinema in Williamstown. “Our aim is to provide a unique, distinctive event for North Adams and Williamstown while serving as a destination festival for lovers of nonfiction. We are living in a time when nonfiction storytelling is offering one of the most vital, urgent ways forward,” Sturtz said. The festival will be curated by Sturtz, who was selected (along with his True/False co-director David Wilson) as one of 40 people in the inaugural Indiewire Influencers list, described as “visionaries that are changing the course of film.” “I’m excited to work with Paul to make his creative vision a reality,” said Thomas. “Working in partnership with the community, engaging a broad audience, and strengthening the festival’s presence are all important elements of the fest.” With the addition of Sturtz and return of Thomas, the board of directors announced the retirement of festival Executive Director Steve Lawson. “It’s been an exhilarating ride, but after 15 seasons as executive director, I felt it was time to pass the torch,” said Lawson. The festival has offices in North Adams and Williamstown and can reached at [email protected] or (413) 458-9700.

Noble Ball

Oct. 17: Baystate Noble Hospital is preparing for the 51st Anniversary Noble Ball co-chaired by the Queenin family: Kevin, Barbara, Jay, Janine, Jon and Lisa. “Magic of Motown – Motor City Review” will take place the MassMutual Center in Springfield. More than 800 guests are expected to attend the black-tie event, which will feature live entertainment, silent and live auctions, formal dinner, cocktails, dancing, and more. Since the first ball in 1959, the Hospital has used this signature event to raise money for operating funds, building improvements, equipment purchases, and more. Proceeds from this year’s ball will be added to last year’s funds and used to enhance Baystate Noble’s entrance and reception area to provide updated ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access. “Our goal is to make Baystate Noble easily accessible for all,” said Allison Gearing-Kalill, vice president of Community Development. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.baystatenoblehospital.org/ball or e-mail [email protected].

Western Mass. Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs (the former featuring Harpoon Brewery CEO Dan Kenary as keynote speaker), and a day-capping Expo Social. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; Health New England, Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, MGM Springfield, and Wild Apple Design, director-level sponsors; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Elms College, information-center sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Valley Fest

Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. “Valley Fest will have the best of the best local, regional, and national beer and hard cider brands,” Berry said. “Even in our inaugural year, Valley Fest will be the largest one-day beer festival in Western Massachusetts. We expect to draw up to 2,000 enthusiasts from throughout New England. We are very excited to showcase the fourth-largest city in New England and all of its amenities.” Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and several local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. A portion of Valley Fest proceeds will support the American Cancer Society and Dakin Humane Society. For more information, visit www.valleybrewfest.com.

Williamstown Film Festival Presents Wind-Up Fest

Oct. 15-18: The annual Williamstown Film Festival (WFF), now in its 17th year, welcomes big changes with new faces, a new name, and new programming focus. Slated for Oct. 15-18, WFF Presents: Wind-Up Fest is a nonfiction festival with documentary film as its backbone. Other forms of nonfiction will be in conversation with documentaries, including long-form journalism, radio podcasts, photography, and social-practice art. The event’s new artistic director, Paul Sturtz, is also the co-director at the True/False Film Fest in Columbia, Mo., and its new managing director, Sandra Thomas, is the former executive director of Images Cinema in Williamstown. “Our aim is to provide a unique, distinctive event for North Adams and Williamstown while serving as a destination festival for lovers of nonfiction. We are living in a time when nonfiction storytelling is offering one of the most vital, urgent ways forward,” Sturtz said. The festival will be curated by Sturtz, who was selected (along with his True/False co-director David Wilson) as one of 40 people in the inaugural Indiewire Influencers list, described as “visionaries that are changing the course of film.” “I’m excited to work with Paul to make his creative vision a reality,” said Thomas. “Working in partnership with the community, engaging a broad audience, and strengthening the festival’s presence are all important elements of the fest.” With the addition of Sturtz and return of Thomas, the board of directors announced the retirement of festival Executive Director Steve Lawson. “It’s been an exhilarating ride, but after 15 seasons as executive director, I felt it was time to pass the torch,” said Lawson. “This seemed like the right moment to segue to new voices and directions. Paul and Sandra have exciting plans in store for the festival which promise to build on all that we’ve achieved so far. Here’s hoping the first 16 years of WFF will prove to be the prelude to a dazzling future.” The festival has offices in North Adams and Williamstown and can reached at [email protected] or (413) 458-9700.

Noble Ball

Oct. 17: Baystate Noble Hospital is preparing for the 51st Anniversary Noble Ball co-chaired by the Queenin family: Kevin, Barbara, Jay, Janine, Jon and Lisa. “Magic of Motown – Motor City Review” will take place the MassMutual Center in Springfield. More than 800 guests are expected to attend the black-tie event, which will feature live entertainment, silent and live auctions, formal dinner, cocktails, dancing, and more. Since the first ball in 1959, the Hospital has used this signature event to raise money for operating funds, building improvements, equipment purchases, and more. Proceeds from this year’s ball will be added to last year’s funds and used to enhance Baystate Noble’s entrance and reception area to provide updated ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) access. “Our goal is to make Baystate Noble easily accessible for all,” said Allison Gearing-Kalill, vice president of Community Development. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.baystatenoblehospital.org/ball or e-mail [email protected].

Western Mass. Business Expo

Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Johnson & Hill and Health New England, director level sponsors; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Workshop on Estate Planning, Medicaid, Medicare
August 4: Monson Savings Bank will conduct a complimentary workshop titled “Straight Talk on Estate Planning, Medicaid Qualification and Medicare Pitfalls,” featuring attorney Karen G. Jackson, Esq., senior partner at Jackson & Torrone, P.C. The event is designed to help people understand what is needed for an effective estate plan and why it’s so important. In clear-cut language, Jackson will explain the “Big 5” pillars of estate and health care planning — a will, durable power of attorney, health care proxy, HIPAA release, and the living will or advance directive. She will also address some significant issues with Medicare and Medicaid that too often unnecessarily cost people a lot of money. The workshop will be conducted from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Gardens of Wilbraham, 2301 Boston Road in Wilbraham. It is free and open to the public. “Understanding estate planning, Medicaid, and Medicare can be daunting,” said Steve Lowell, President and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “This workshop will simplify the steps needed to create an effective estate plan so that people may better protect themselves, their families and their assets.” Those interested may call Anna Calvenese at (413) 267-1221 e-mail to [email protected] to RSVP. Seating is limited. Refreshments will be served.

Information Session on Earned-sick-time Law
August 6: The Greater Northampton, Amherst Area, and Greater Easthampton chambers of commerce will host an informational session on the earned-sick-time law, presented by the Mass. Attorney General’s Office, at the Hadley Farms Meeting House. The session, one of several offered statewide and online, aims to educate employers and employees about the new law, which went into effect July 1. It will offer guidance on implementation, explain employers’ and employees’ rights and responsibilities, and provide opportunities to get specific questions answered. The earned-sick-time law was approved by voters on Nov. 4, 2014 and entitles employees in Massachusetts to earn and use up to 40 hours of sick time under certain conditions. The attorney general enforces this law and also wrote and published final regulations to clarify practices and policies in its administration. More information, including the final regulations and sample documents, may be found at www.mass.gov/ago/earnedsicktime. The information session is expected to last two hours, including time for questions and answers. Questions regarding these information sessions and the earned-sick-time law may be directed to Morgan Callahan at [email protected] or (617) 963-2024.

Bridge of Flowers Classic Races
August 8: Baystate Franklin Medical Center is the presenting sponsor for the Greater Shelburne Falls Area Business Association’s 37th annual Bridge of Flowers Classic Races. While the 10K race through Shelburne Falls draws elite athletes from throughout the Northeast, the 3K charity run/walk offers an option for others to participate at their own pace and fitness level. “We are fortunate to live and work in an area that is prime running and walking country,” said Dr. Thomas Higgins, chief medical officer and interim president of Baystate Franklin. “And the Bridge of Flowers races serve as goals for many people in our communities during their spring and summer training. Physical fitness is central to overall health and well-being, and we are delighted to support this inspiring event.” The Bridge of Flowers Classic Races attract more than 1,000 participants to Shelburne Falls. The 10K race, which starts at 9 a.m., is a spectator-friendly, figure-8 course that begins with a gradual climb from the village center’s historic iron bridge, then wends its way through neighborhood streets before circling back to the bridge, up Crittendon Hill, and back into town along shady downhill roads and flats. The 3K charity run/walk begins at 8:15 a.m. and follows the same first loop as the later run.  An awards ceremony and after party will follow the 10K run in a spot overlooking the falls. Race-day registration opens at 7 a.m. Registration may be completed online at www.bridgeofflowers10k.com; at the pre-race Spaghetti Fest on Friday, Aug. 7, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Buckland-Shelburne Elementary School, 75 Mechanic St., Shelburne Falls; or on the day of the race. All participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt featuring artwork by a local artist.

Jazz & Roots Festival
August 8: The second annual Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival celebrates the emergence of Springfield’s Cultural District and promotes an arts-driven, community-oriented, and sustainable revitalization of the city. The free event in Court Square will offer a festive atmosphere featuring locally and internationally acclaimed musical artists, dance and theater workshops, local arts and crafts, and plenty of food. More than 5,000 people are expected to attend and enjoy the sounds of jazz, Latin jazz, gospel, blues, funk, and more. The festival is produced by Blues to Green, which uses music and art to celebrate community and culture, build shared purpose, and catalyze social and environmental change. For more information and a lineup of performers, visit springfieldjazzfest.com.

Valley Fest
August 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. “Valley Fest will have the best of the best local, regional, and national beer and hard cider brands,” Berry said. “Even in our inaugural year, Valley Fest will be the largest one-day beer festival in Western Massachusetts. We expect to draw up to 2,000 enthusiasts from throughout New England. We are very excited to showcase the fourth-largest city in New England and all of its amenities.” Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. Michael Mathis, MGM Springfield president, said his company “is excited to take the lead in sponsoring the inaugural Valley Fest. The local entrepreneurial spirit of White Lion Brewing, coupled with the historic Court Square setting, is a winning combination to start a new Springfield tradition. We look forward to Aug. 29.” A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). “We are honored to sponsor Valley Fest and look forward to it being an annual event that shares in the facilitation of growth within the downtown community,” said Chris Russell, executive director of the Springfield BID. Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities. A portion of Valley Fest proceeds will support several local charities.

Williamstown Film Festival Presents Wind-Up Fest
Oct. 15-18: The annual Williamstown Film Festival (WFF), now in its 17th year, welcomes big changes with new faces, a new name, and new programming focus. Slated for Oct. 15-18, WFF Presents: Wind-Up Fest is a nonfiction festival with documentary film as its backbone. Other forms of nonfiction will be in conversation with documentaries, including long-form journalism, radio podcasts, photography, and social-practice art. The event’s new artistic director, Paul Sturtz, is also the co-director at the True/False Film Fest in Columbia, Mo., and its new managing director, Sandra Thomas, is the former executive director of Images Cinema in Williamstown. “Our aim is to provide a unique, distinctive event for North Adams and Williamstown while serving as a destination festival for lovers of nonfiction. We are living in a time when nonfiction storytelling is offering one of the most vital, urgent ways forward,” Sturtz said. The festival will be curated by Sturtz, who was selected (along with his True/False co-director David Wilson) as one of 40 people in the inaugural Indiewire Influencers list, described as “visionaries that are changing the course of film.” “I’m excited to work with Paul to make his creative vision a reality,” said Thomas. “Working in partnership with the community, engaging a broad audience, and strengthening the festival’s presence are all important elements of the fest.” With the addition of Sturtz and return of Thomas, the board of directors announced the retirement of festival Executive Director Steve Lawson. “It’s been an exhilarating ride, but after 15 seasons as executive director, I felt it was time to pass the torch,” said Lawson. “This seemed like the right moment to segue to new voices and directions. Paul and Sandra have exciting plans in store for the festival which promise to build on all that we’ve achieved so far. Here’s hoping the first 16 years of WFF will prove to be the prelude to a dazzling future.” The festival has offices in North Adams and Williamstown and can reached at [email protected] or (413) 458-9700.

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Johnson & Hill, Health New England, and MGM Springfield as director level sponsors; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Positively Holyoke Summer Concert Series
July 8, 15, 22, 29: The Holyoke Rotary Club has announced the lineup of the 2015 Positively Holyoke Summer Concert Series. The free concerts will be held on Wednesday evenings in July, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Heritage State Park in Holyoke. Performances canceled due to weather will be scheduled for the following evening (Thursday of the same week). The schedule is as follows: July 8, Out of the Blue (rock & roll); July 15, Brass Attack (classic/modern rock); July 22, the Franny O Show (covers and original songs); and July 29, Ireland Parish (Irish ballads). Heritage State Park is a family-friendly area located between the Volleyball Hall of Fame, the Holyoke Children’s Museum, and historic Holyoke Merry-Go-Round. The park has no formal seating, and concertgoers are encouraged to bring folding chairs and picnic blankets. “The Positively Holyoke Summer Concert Series began five years ago at the request of the City of Holyoke Parks & Recreation Department. The department approached the Holyoke Rotary Club with the knowledge that many local Rotary clubs provide this form of entertainment in the communities they serve. The events are fun and family-friendly,” said Maureen Ross O’Connell, co-chairperson of the concert committee. Attendees are welcome to enjoy food at the Rotary Grill, provided this year by Sláinte, which will open at 5:30 p.m. each week. Beer and wine will be available for purchase courtesy of Brennan’s Place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. New this year, attendees will be allowed to take their purchases from the beer garden onto the grounds of Heritage State Park. Coolers and beverages not purchased at the event will not be allowed. The concert series will also feature a 50/50 raffle each week. Free parking is provided in the Proulx Garage on Dwight Street after 5 p.m. (entrance on Front Street). Major sponsors of the Positively Holyoke Summer Concert Series include Holyoke Gas & Electric Department and Holyoke Parks & Recreation. Band sponsors include Ross Insurance Agency Inc., O’Connell Care at Home, and the O’Connell Companies. To learn more about the concert series, visit www.positivelyholyoke.com. For sponsorship opportunities, call Maureen Ross O’Connell at (413) 536-8380.

Indian Motocycle Day
July 26: From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Springfield Museums will present their sixth annual Indian Motocycle Day, the continuation of a long-standing tradition honoring the classic motorcycles that were manufactured in the city from 1901 to 1953. Last year, more than 1,000 people attended the event, which featured more than 60 classic, Springfield-built Indians owned by local collectors, The event is sponsored by the Sampson Family and AAA Pioneer Valley; the media sponsor is Rock 102 WAQY. MassMutual is the 2015 premier sponsor of the Springfield Museums. The museums re-established the Indian Day tradition in 2010 after a five-year hiatus. From 1970 to 2005, the event was held at the now-closed Indian Motocycle Museum on Hendee Street in Springfield. Esta Manthos, together with her late husband Charlie, were the owners of the former museum. In 2007, Manthos donated her extensive collection of Indian Motocycles, artifacts, and memorabilia to the Springfield Museums, where it is now on view in the Lyman & Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. This year’s Indian Day will pay tribute to Bob’s Indian of Etters, Pa., for its many years of supporting the heritage of classic Indian cycles. The original dealership was founded in the 1950s by Bob and Kay Markey, and has been a treasure trove of motorcycle history for over half a century. In addition to the motorcycles on display, there will be a variety of vendors, food and beverages, music provided by Rock 102, and the awarding of trophies for the best Indians in a variety of categories. Commemorative T-shirts will be available for purchase. Anyone bringing a pre-1953 Indian will receive a free admission pass plus a commemorative Indian Day button. Exhibitors, and especially vendors, are encouraged to pre-register by calling (413) 263-6800, ext. 304. Admission to the event is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-17. For those wishing to attend the event and tour museum buildings, general admission is $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and college students, and $9.50 for children ages 3-17. Admission to the event and the museums is free for members of Springfield Museums; free museum admission is available for Springfield residents after 3 p.m. For information, call (413) 263-6800, ext. 304, or visit www.springfieldmuseums.org.

Advance Directives and Healthcare Proxies
July 29: Hillcrest Commons Nursing and Rehabilitation Center will offer an informational session on advance directives and healthcare proxies at 10 a.m. at the Ralph Froio Senior Center in Pittsfield. The event will include a free continental breakfast. Part of Hillcrest’s “Berkshire Senior Subjects” monthly series, the presentation will focus on advance directives, healthcare proxies, and MOLST forms. The guest speaker is Patricia Tremblay, MS, RN. The presentation is free and open to the public; registration is requested by calling (413) 445-9747 by July 27. Hillcrest Commons Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, a nonprofit organization that has been caring for people in the Berkshire area since 1995, provides personalized short-term rehabilitation, long-term skilled-nursing care, respite care, and specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care, all in a homelike setting. Specialty services include a ventilator program to support ventilator-dependent patients or to wean dependence, and a behavioral-health program for those with chronic psychiatric conditions. Hospice services are available for compassionate end-of-life care. For more information, visit www.hillcrestcommons.org.

Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival
Aug 8: The second annual Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival celebrates the emergence of Springfield’s Cultural District and promotes an arts-driven, community-oriented, and sustainable revitalization of the city. The free event in Court Square will offer a festive atmosphere featuring locally and internationally acclaimed musical artists, dance and theater workshops, local arts and crafts, and plenty of food. More than 5,000 people are expected to attend and enjoy the sounds of jazz, Latin jazz, gospel, blues, funk, and more. The festival is produced by Blues to Green, which uses music and art to celebrate community and culture, build shared purpose, and catalyze social and environmental change. For more information and a lineup of performers, visit springfieldjazzfest.com.

Driving for the Cure Golf Tournament
Aug. 17: The seventh annual Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament will tee off at Crestview Country Club in Agawam. The presenting sponsor for this year’s tournament is Autotrader. The tournament will be a four-player scramble. Tournament-day check-in begins at 10:30 a.m., and tee time is at 12:30 p.m. The event includes lunch, golf, dinner, raffle prizes, contests, and more. The tournament was started by Carla and Tommy Cosenzi, owners of TommyCar Auto Group, in memory of their father, Tom Cosenzi, who passed away from a glioblastoma brain tumor in 2009, in the hopes of carrying on his legacy and finding a cure for this disease. To date, this tournament has raised a total of $480,000 in its six-year partnership with the Jimmy Fund, one of the largest organized golf programs in the U.S. All proceeds support Dr. Patrick Wen and his team of researchers in the Neuro-Oncology Department at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. “My father’s vision was that no other family would have to endure the pain of cancer,” said Carla Cosenzi. “It was his wish that we continue to raise money for cancer research at Dana Farber through its Jimmy Fund.” To register an individual or team, or to become a tournament sponsor, visit www.tomcosenzidrivingforthecure.com. For more information, contact Kayla Currie at (413) 570-1319 or [email protected].

Valley Fest
Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. “Valley Fest will have the best of the best local, regional, and national beer and hard cider brands,” Berry said. “Even in our inaugural year, Valley Fest will be the largest one-day beer festival in Western Massachusetts. We expect to draw up to 2,000 enthusiasts from throughout New England. We are very excited to showcase the fourth-largest city in New England and all of its amenities.” Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). “We are honored to sponsor Valley Fest and look forward to it being an annual event that shares in the facilitation of growth within the downtown community,” said Chris Russell, executive director of the Springfield BID. Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities.

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include Comcast Business, presenting sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Johnson & Hill and Health New England, director level sponsors; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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ACCGS Golf Tournament
July 13: The Ranch Golf Club in Southwick will be the setting for the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s (ACCGS) 2015 Golf Tournament. The tournament is sponsored by Bacon Wilson, P.C., Barr & Barr Inc., Florence Savings Bank, Frank Webb’s Bath Center, HealthSouth, Insurance Center of New England, and Vanasse Hangen Brustlin Inc. The tournament will kick off with registration and practice on one of its six target greens, two pitching greens, and pitching nets at 11 a.m. A course-side lunch, sponsored by the MassMutual Center, will be served from 11 a.m. until noon, with a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Golfers will enjoy a scramble format, hole-in-one contests sponsored by Rocky’s Ace Hardware and Teddy Bear Pools & Spas, longest-drive and closest-to-the-line competitions, a putting contest sponsored by Chicopee Savings Bank, and an opportunity to win from a wide selection of raffle prizes, including Red Sox tickets and gift cards. The day will conclude with a reception, buffet dinner, and awards ceremony. An added attraction this year will be the opportunity to win the use of a fully-stocked golf cart for the tournament, completed with snacks, cigars, additional raffle tickets, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and more. The tournament entry fee is $600 per foursome (individual golfers are welcome at $150) and includes greens fees, cart, lunch, reception, and souvenir photo sponsored by Arrow Security Co. Inc. and Eastfield Mall. Non-golfers may attend the reception only for $30 per person. To register, visit www.myonlinechamber.com or e-mail ACCGS Member Services Director Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

Indian Motocycle Day
July 26: From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., the Springfield Museums will present their sixth annual Indian Motocycle Day, the continuation of a long-standing tradition honoring the classic motorcycles that were manufactured in the city from 1901 to 1953. Last year, more than 1,000 people attended the event, which featured more than 60 classic, Springfield-built Indians owned by local collectors, The event is sponsored by the Sampson Family and AAA Pioneer Valley; the media sponsor is Rock 102 WAQY. MassMutual is the 2015 premier sponsor of the Springfield Museums. The museums re-established the Indian Day tradition in 2010 after a five-year hiatus. From 1970 to 2005, the event was held at the now-closed Indian Motocycle Museum on Hendee Street in Springfield. Esta Manthos, together with her late husband Charlie, were the owners of the former museum. In 2007, Manthos donated her extensive collection of Indian Motocycles, artifacts, and memorabilia to the Springfield Museums, where it is now on view in the Lyman & Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. This year’s Indian Day will pay tribute to Bob’s Indian of Etters, Pa., for its many years of supporting the heritage of classic Indian cycles. The original dealership was founded in the 1950s by Bob and Kay Markey, and has been a treasure trove of motorcycle history for over half a century. In addition to the motorcycles on display, there will be a variety of vendors, food and beverages, music provided by Rock 102, and the awarding of trophies for the best Indians in a variety of categories. Commemorative T-shirts will be available for purchase. Anyone bringing a pre-1953 Indian will receive a free admission pass plus a commemorative Indian Day button. Exhibitors, and especially vendors, are encouraged to pre-register by calling (413) 263-6800, ext. 304. Admission to the event is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-17. For those wishing to attend the event and tour museum buildings, general admission is $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and college students, and $9.50 for children ages 3-17. Admission to the event and the museums is free for members of Springfield Museums; free museum admission is available for Springfield residents after 3 p.m. For information, call (413) 263-6800, ext. 304, or visit www.springfieldmuseums.org.

Driving for the Cure Golf Tournament
Aug. 17: The seventh annual Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament will tee off at Crestview Country Club in Agawam. The presenting sponsor for this year’s tournament is Autotrader. The tournament will be a four-player scramble. Tournament-day check-in begins at 10:30 a.m., and tee time is at 12:30 p.m. The event includes lunch, golf, dinner, raffle prizes, contests, and more. The tournament was started by Carla and Tommy Cosenzi, owners of TommyCar Auto Group, in memory of their father, Tom Cosenzi, who passed away from a glioblastoma brain tumor in 2009, in the hopes of carrying on his legacy and finding a cure for this disease. To date, this tournament has raised a total of $480,000 in its six-year partnership with the Jimmy Fund, one of the largest organized golf programs in the U.S. All proceeds support Dr. Patrick Wen and his team of researchers in the Neuro-Oncology Department at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. To register an individual or team, or to become a tournament sponsor, visit www.tomcosenzidrivingforthecure.com. For more information, contact Kayla Currie at (413) 570-1319 or [email protected].

Valley Fest
Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities. A portion of Valley Fest proceeds will support several local charities.

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about tevents, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Sponsors include MGM Springfield, presidential and Expo Social sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Johnson & Hill and Health New England, director level sponsors; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Workshop on Retirement Planning, Social Security
June 16: Monson Savings Bank is holding a complimentary workshop titled “Social Security: The Choice of a Lifetime.” It will be presented by Kevin Flynn, regional vice president of Nationwide Financial, and an expert on retirement planning and helping people to understand Social Security and how to optimize their benefits. The event is designed to give people a comprehensive understanding of the rules and details regarding when and how to file for Social Security. It will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hampden Senior Center at 104 Allen St. in Hampden. The free event is open to the public. “This workshop is back by popular demand,” said Steven Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank. “Knowing when and how to file for Social Security can have a big impact on retirement income. We have offered this workshop before, and those who attended were very appreciative of the information.” Those interested in attending should call Anna Driscoll at (413) 267-1221 or e-mail [email protected]. Seating is limited. Refreshments will be served.

EANE Workshop
June 17: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast in Agawam will host a workshop, “Six Secrets for Promoting Products and Services with Confidence,” from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This program, presented by Lyn Murphy, will provide participants with proven strategies and practical tools to feel more comfortable and ultimately become more effective at suggestive selling. It is targeted toward business owners, consultants, lawyers, accountants, architects, and customer-service representatives whose positions include sales goals. Attendees will learn how to enhance their personal presence and build rapport with current and potential clients, discover tools to avoid feeling pushy or rejected when promoting products and services, use tools to identify and adapt to prospects with different communication and behavioral styles, and learn strategies to positively influence sales outcomes. The $285 fee includes the electronic DiSC Sales Assessment. To register, visit www.eane.org/six-secrets-for-promoting-products-and-services-with-confidence.

ERC5 Annual Meeting
June 17: The East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Blake Commons Dining Hall, Bay Path University, Longmeadow. The keynote speaker will be talk-show host and bestselling author Howie Carr, discussing politics, crime, and entertainment. A member of the Radio Hall of Fame, Carr’s evening drive show can heard on more than 20 stations throughout New England. He is also a columnist for the Boston Herald and a contributor to Breitbart.com. Carr’s bestselling books include The Brothers Bulger and Hitman. Crime boss Whitey Bulger was so infuriated by Carr’s groundbreaking reporting that he once put out a murder contract on Carr, a story detailed on 60 Minutes. At his 2013 trial on murder and racketeering charges, Bulger tried to have Carr banned from the courtroom by calling him as a defense witness. Now imprisoned for life in Arizona, the crime czar still says his greatest regret was not murdering Carr when he had the chance. Bulger’s story will be featured in the upcoming film Black Mass, starring Johnny Depp. To register, visit www.erc5.com or contact Amanda Brodkin at the chamber. The cost is $45 for chamber members, $55 for non-members.

Clinical Notes Concert
June 18: Baystate Franklin Medical Center’s Clinical Notes, a hospital-based women’s a cappella chorus, will perform a free summer concert, “Good Ole — and New — a Cappella,” from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the hospital’s Conference Rooms B and C. Under the direction of Kathryn Aubrey-McAvoy, the group will perform a variety of selections, including classical, jazz, traditional, and rock. Individual members of the group will be featured as soloists. Hospital staff, patients, visitors, and the public are invited to attend. Guests should feel free to come and stay for the whole concert or for a short time, as time allows. Clinical Notes was formed in 2003 by Phyllis Stone and Annginette Anderson, who shared a love of a cappella singing. Though members have come and gone over the 12 years, most of the singers have been in the group since its inception. The group performs two formal concerts yearly (during the holidays and at the beginning of summer), and sings at various hospital-related functions, such as the annual Valentine’s Day Chocolate Festival, Nurses’ Week, and other celebrations. They have also performed during the Relay for Life Sacred Gathering, the Hospice of Franklin County Tree Lighting, and the United Way A Cappella Festival. For more information, contact Stone at (413) 773-2573 or [email protected].

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House the evening of June 18. The event honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, and this year’s class was profiled in the April 20 issue. This year’s winners represent virtually every sector of the economy — from financial services to manufacturing; retail to healthcare; technology to nonprofit management; education to law. They also show the seemingly innumerable ways people can give back to the community. This year’s event will feature a new award — the Continued Excellence Award, presented to the previous honoree who has most impressively built upon their track record of excellence (see nominees HERE). Always one of the most anticipated events and best networking opportunities on the calendar, the gala, which is sold out, will feature lavish food stations, entertainment, and the introduction of this year’s class. The 40 Under Forty program and gala are sponsored this year by Northwestern Mutual (presenting sponsor), Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsor), Fathers & Sons, the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank.

Leadership Conference
June 19: Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) School of Business & Information Technologies will host a free Leadership Conference from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Scibelli Hall (Building 2) Theater at STCC. This one-day event will feature a variety of guest speakers, including Rebecca Corbin, president and CEO of the National Assoc. of Community Colleges for Entrepreneurship; Alden Davis; Robert Hensley, president of Robert Hensley & Associates, LLC; Nicole Murdoch, small-business owner; Gail Ward Olmsted, STCC professor and department chair in the School of Business and Information Technology; Rob Parslow, Accounting director at American Express; Ira Rubenzahl, STCC President; Diane Sabato, STCC professor of Business Administration; Kirk Smith, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Springfield; and Paul Thornton, STCC professor of Business Administration. The event will include interactive group discussions and opportunities for networking. Lunch will be provided. For more information or to register, call (413) 755-4008 or e-mail [email protected].

ACCGS Panel on Health-plan Changes
June 23: The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS), in collaboration with the Greater Chicopee, Easthampton, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce, will present a panel discussion on health-plan changes associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA) from 3 to 4 p.m. at the UMass Center at Springfield, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Sponsored by the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County, Massachusetts Assoc. of Health Plans (MAHP) President and CEO Lora Pellegrino and Senior Vice President Eric Linzer will present “The State of the Massachusetts Marketplace.” Despite the Commonwealth’s 2006 Health Care Reform Law serving as the model for the ACA, according to MAHP, Massachusetts faces significant challenges five years after its passage. Massachusetts employers, particularly small and mid-size companies, will need to confront significant changes to the marketplace, which, MAHP says, will have a substantial impact on health-care costs, including the expansion of the small-group market to include companies with up to 100 employers and the elimination of the state’s rating factors. Pellegrino and Linzer will discuss the current state of the health-plan market, what the ACA changes mean for employers, how employees can address the impact of the ACA changes, how mandated benefits and other changes at the state level may exacerbate the challenges employers face, and what employers can do to get involved. The cost is $10 for members of the participating chambers and $15 for general admission. To register, visit one of the chambers online or e-mail Kara Cavanaugh at [email protected].

Berkshire Region MITS Summer Institute
July 6-10: Berkshire Museum will host the Berkshire Region Museum Institute for Teaching Science (MITS) summer session for middle- and high-school teachers. This year’s theme is “Going with the Flow: Using Inquiry Methods to Teach Watershed Science.” The Berkshire Museum is the lead educational partner for MITS in the Berkshires. The program is presented with instructing partners Housatonic Valley Assoc., Flying Cloud Institute, and American Rivers. This exciting professional-development program will focus on the ecology and history of local rivers and watersheds. Participants will learn from experts about what is affecting water quality in the rivers that flow through area communities and how scientists effectively measure watershed health using principles of ecology, engineering, and robotics. The week-long institute includes outside exploration of local rivers and time indoors at the museum for hands-on, inquiry-based projects. Institute participants will build and use a SeaPerch underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and then take it back to their classrooms. The SeaPerch ROV is used to take videos of underwater ecosystems and collect water samples. SeaPerch curriculum serves as an introduction to basics in engineering, ship and submarine design, and an exploration of ways that engineers have been able to explore places that are too dangerous or unreachable for humans to visit. The educators will explore a variety of methods to test water quality. They also will build miniature urban landscapes to prototype methods for remediating runoff in an exploration of low-impact-development solutions to non-point source pollution. Participants will learn from experts about the science and politics of dam removal that have been affecting New England rivers, and they will hear the story of PCB pollution and removal in the Housatonic River watershed and examine issues surrounding urban and agricultural runoff into rivers and aquifers. Throughout the course, participating educators will try out, develop, and implement inquiry-based approaches and project ideas for use in the classroom that amplify the concepts covered in the course and that will encourage students to become critical, inquisitive thinkers. Throughout the institute, the educators will be working with proven methods of assessing student learning. Educators who complete the institute earn professional development points and/or graduate credits from either Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts or Cambridge College, based on a teacher’s chosen level of participation. All activities will be linked to Massachusetts Common Core state standards and STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) initiatives. All teachers from grades 5 to 12 are welcome to attend. Online registration for the institute is available at www.mits.org. There will be an orientation on June 20 before the July 6-10 session. The deadline to guarantee a spot is June 1; late sign-ups will be accepted based on space availability. The registration fee, which includes the cost of the SeaPerch kit, is $400 for individual participants and $375 for two or more participants from same school district. Meghan Bone, Berkshire Museum’s School and Teacher Program specialist, can answer questions about the program; she can be reached at (413) 443-7171, ext. 332, or [email protected].

Valley Fest
Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. “Valley Fest will have the best of the best local, regional, and national beer and hard cider brands,” Berry said. “Even in our inaugural year, Valley Fest will be the largest one-day beer festival in Western Massachusetts. We expect to draw up to 2,000 enthusiasts from throughout New England. We are very excited to showcase the fourth-largest city in New England and all of its amenities.” Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). “We are honored to sponsor Valley Fest and look forward to it being an annual event that shares in the facilitation of growth within the downtown community,” said Chris Russell, executive director of the Springfield BID. Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities. A portion of Valley Fest proceeds will support several local charities.

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about tevents, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Sponsors include MGM Springfield, presidential and Expo Social sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Johnson & Hill and Health New England, director level sponsors; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Civic ‘Hackathon’
June 6-7: As part of the National Day of Civic Hacking, more than 100 people with a variety of computer-technology skills are expected to participate in the Hack for Western Mass. (H4WMA) being held at the UMass Center at Springfield. This ‘hackathon’ will connect these ‘techies’ with more than a dozen nonprofit organizations from throughout the Pioneer Valley to create web­based solutions to help them have greater impact on their communities. Participants are being actively sought; the website www.hackforwesternmass.org is available for information, registration, and sponsorship opportunities. “Civic hackers are a generous breed,” said H4WMA co­organizer Steven Brewer, director of the Biology Computer Resource Center at UMass Amherst, noting that the hackthon is entering its third year. “The first was held at UMass Amherst in 2013. Last year’s was held in Holyoke. This year, we wanted it in Springfield.” A hackathon is a gathering of people — many with computer-technology skills but also project managers, scribes, presentation preparers, designers, and social-media mavens — who come together to code collaboratively in a short period of time, usually a weekend, to create IT­based solutions to local problems. More than three dozen local nonprofits have benefited or will benefit from this annual day of local civic hacking. “It’s a great opportunity to apply local talent to local challenges,” said Bram Moreinis, another H4WMA co­organizer, who ran Tech Scouts in Greenfield last summer. The organizers, who also include Elyssa Serrilli, a lead mentor for the Full Moon Girls program of the Vermont Wilderness School, and Cristos Lianides­Chin, a FileMaker developer at inRESONANCE in Northampton, have been meeting for months to get ready for this weekend. “It takes a lot of planning to pull this together — recruit project managers, nonprofits, sponsors, and participants; do all the outreach; and set up all the technology” noted Serrilli. Added Lianides-Chin, “there are many details to keep track of and people to engage to bring it to fruition. We’ve been meeting weekly in person and almost daily online for months. Online collaboration tools have come a long way.” Participating nonprofits include United Way of Pioneer Valley, Square One, Suit Up Springfield, Springfield Parking Authority, Gardening the Community, DIAL/SELF, Lyme Disease Resource Center, LightHouse Personalized Education for Teens, Permaculture Practitioners in the Northeast, Smith College, Full Moon Girls, and Pioneer Valley Local First. “This hackathon is such a novel way of helping our regional nonprofit organizations,” said LaTonia Naylor, manager of community impact at United Way of Pioneer Valley. “We’re thrilled on two levels. We’ve submitted a challenge that will help us with engaging the volunteers that give their time to many area nonprofits, and many area nonprofits will benefit from the solutions that emerge.” The organizers also want to engage youth in information technology and offer a youth hackathon running in parallel to the main event. Sponsors of the event to date include UMass Amherst’s Center for Public Policy and Administration, Atalasoft, Communicate Health, App­o­Mat, FIT Solutions, Last Call Media, Mad POW, inRESONANCE, AmherstMedia.org, the UMass Center at Springfield, and the Springfield Parking Authority. For more information and to register or sponsor, visit hackforwesternmass.org or contact Cristos Lianides­Chin at [email protected].

Breakfast Series on IT Security
June 11: You have heard the stories about Target, Home Depot and Sony, but could something like that really happen to a small business in Western Mass.? What are the biggest threats facing a small business when it comes to IT security? Spoiler alert: it isn’t what you think. Join Paragus Strategic IT as it kicks off its new breakfast series by taking a look at these questions and eating some great food. Presenters will review what’s happening locally, regionally, nationally, and globally when it comes to IT security, and share valuable tips that can help prevent your business from becoming the victim of a cyberattack. The event is scheduled for 8 to 9:30 a.m. at Paragus Strategic IT, 112 Russell St., Hadley. To register, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/paragus-breakfast-series-tickets-16867459024.

Workshop on Retirement Planning, Social Security
June 16: Monson Savings Bank is holding a complimentary workshop titled “Social Security: The Choice of a Lifetime.” It will be presented by Kevin Flynn, regional vice president of Nationwide Financial, and an expert on retirement planning and helping people to understand Social Security and how to optimize their benefits. The event is designed to give people a comprehensive understanding of the rules and details regarding when and how to file for Social Security. It will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hampden Senior Center at 104 Allen St. in Hampden. The free event is open to the public. “This workshop is back by popular demand,” said Steven Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank. “Knowing when and how to file for Social Security can have a big impact on retirement income. We have offered this workshop before, and those who attended were very appreciative of the information.” Those interested in attending should call Anna Driscoll at (413) 267-1221 or e-mail [email protected]. Seating is limited. Refreshments will be served.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House the evening of June 18. The event honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, and this year’s class was profiled in the April 20 issue. This year’s winners represent virtually every sector of the economy — from financial services to manufacturing; retail to healthcare; technology to nonprofit management; education to law. They also show the seemingly innumerable ways people can give back to the community. This year’s event will feature a new award — the Continued Excellence Award, presented to the previous honoree who has most impressively built upon their track record of excellence. Always one of the most anticipated events and best networking opportunities on the calendar, the gala will feature lavish food stations, entertainment, and the introduction of this year’s class. Tickets cost $65 each, with standing-room-only tickets still available. Tickets can be ordered by calling (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or by visiting HERE. The 40 Under Forty program and gala are sponsored this year by Northwestern Mutual (presenting sponsor), Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsor), Fathers & Sons, the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank.

Berkshire Region MITS Summer Institute
July 6-10: Berkshire Museum will host the Berkshire Region Museum Institute for Teaching Science (MITS) summer session for middle- and high-school teachers. This year’s theme is “Going with the Flow: Using Inquiry Methods to Teach Watershed Science.” The Berkshire Museum is the lead educational partner for MITS in the Berkshires. The program is presented with instructing partners Housatonic Valley Assoc., Flying Cloud Institute, and American Rivers. This exciting professional-development program will focus on the ecology and history of local rivers and watersheds. Participants will learn from experts about what is affecting water quality in the rivers that flow through area communities and how scientists effectively measure watershed health using principles of ecology, engineering, and robotics. The week-long institute includes outside exploration of local rivers and time indoors at the museum for hands-on, inquiry-based projects. Institute participants will build and use a SeaPerch underwater remotely operated vehicle (ROV) and then take it back to their classrooms. The SeaPerch ROV is used to take videos of underwater ecosystems and collect water samples. SeaPerch curriculum serves as an introduction to basics in engineering, ship and submarine design, and an exploration of ways that engineers have been able to explore places that are too dangerous or unreachable for humans to visit. The educators will explore a variety of methods to test water quality. They also will build miniature urban landscapes to prototype methods for remediating runoff in an exploration of low-impact-development solutions to non-point source pollution. Participants will learn from experts about the science and politics of dam removal that have been affecting New England rivers, and they will hear the story of PCB pollution and removal in the Housatonic River watershed and examine issues surrounding urban and agricultural runoff into rivers and aquifers. Throughout the course, participating educators will try out, develop, and implement inquiry-based approaches and project ideas for use in the classroom that amplify the concepts covered in the course and that will encourage students to become critical, inquisitive thinkers. Throughout the institute, the educators will be working with proven methods of assessing student learning. Educators who complete the institute earn professional development points and/or graduate credits from either Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts or Cambridge College, based on a teacher’s chosen level of participation. All activities will be linked to Massachusetts Common Core state standards and STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) initiatives. All teachers from grades 5 to 12 are welcome to attend. Online registration for the institute is available at www.mits.org. There will be an orientation on June 20 before the July 6-10 session. The deadline to guarantee a spot is June 1; late sign-ups will be accepted based on space availability. The registration fee, which includes the cost of the SeaPerch kit, is $400 for individual participants and $375 for two or more participants from same school district. Meghan Bone, Berkshire Museum’s School and Teacher Program specialist, can answer questions about the program; she can be reached at (413) 443-7171, ext. 332, or [email protected].

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include MGM Springfield, Expo Social sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; Johnson & Hill, silver sponsor; DIF Design, director level sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booth prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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Celebration of Heroes
May 25: Smith & Wesson Corp. announced it will present its second annual Celebration of Heroes. The company invites the community to join it in honoring those who have served their country by attending the event from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. on the grounds of Smith & Wesson, 2100 Roosevelt Ave., Springfield. At 11:45 a.m., Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, along with James Debney, president and CEO of Smith & Wesson, will preside over a program to honor local heroes and our country. Eight-year-old Shea Braceland of Westfield will deliver the national anthem. Following the program, the Celebration of Heroes will commence. There is no admission fee, and proceeds from the sale of food and items at the event will benefit the Friends of Ward 8 and the Friends of the Springfield Vet Center, two local veterans’ organizations supported by Smith & Wesson. Activities will include live stage performances by local bands including Lower Level, Maxxtone, and more. A kids’ tent will feature interactive musical performances by Rachel Hiller of Music Together, a photo booth, activities run by the YMCA of Greater Springfield, and other free activities. Bottled water will be provided free of charge by Big Y. In 2014, Smith & Wesson was honored to restore Springfield’s Veterans War Monument, which had been destroyed by the impact of weather and time. On Memorial Day 2014, a rededication ceremony and the first annual Celebration of Heroes was held to reveal the restored monument and to honor local veterans, active duty members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and military families. Proceeds benefited the Friends of the Springfield Vet Center, which offers social, recreational, and educational programs to combat veterans and their families, as well as the Friends of Ward 8, a nonprofit organization that supports the Veterans of Ward 8 at the VA Medical Center in Leeds. Ward 8 veterans suffer from combat PTSD and benefit from a six week in-treatment program to learn how to better cope with the condition.  During the 2015 Celebration of Heroes, funds will be raised for these two deserving organizations through ticket sales for fare from area food trucks and a beer and sangria tent courtesy of Commercial Distributing and Log Rolling. Event T-shirts will be available for a minimal fee. Military personnel (with military ID) will receive a free event shirt. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/celebrationofheroes, call Elaine Stellato at (413) 747-3371, or e-mail [email protected].

Springfield Police Year in Review
May 26: Since taking his post last June, Springfield Police Commissioner John Barbieri has focused his efforts on a collaborative, community-oriented approach to public safety through five priority objectives. He will present an update on his first year as commissioner at the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s Pastries, Politics and Policy event from 8 to 9 a.m. at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. When he first was sworn in, Barbieri said he would strive to “re-engineer police services to positively impact crime, quality of life, and fear-of-crime issues, and improve quality of service and stakeholder satisfaction” through becoming more proactive, improving response times, increasing levels of service, building relationships with stakeholders, and developing and measuring feedback processes. He has launched an expanded Counter Criminal Continuum (C-3) policing model to the North End, the Hollywood section of the South End, the area around Mason Square, and the Belmont Avenue/Oakland Street section of Forest Park; introduced an innovative, web-based neighborhood-watch program; and continues to conduct successful law-enforcement sweeps across the city, concentrating on quality-of-life issues. The cost of the May 26 event are $15 for members, $25 for general admission, and includes continental breakfast. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

‘Women Lead Change’
May 28: The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts (WFWM) will host “Women Lead Change: A Celebration of the Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact (LIPPI) Class of 2015” at the Log Cabin in Holyoke from 6 to 8 p.m. More than 200 participants are expected to attend, including local and state elected officials. The keynote speaker is Attorney General Maura Healey, who began her term in January. She has led groundbreaking cases for civil rights, fair lending and housing, and litigation supporting access to reproductive health care for women. The Women’s Fund will honor her achievements with a “She Changes the World” award at the event. Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse will welcome guests, and Emily McLaughlin, deputy director of the Massachusetts Treasury’s department on Economic Empowerment, will also give remarks. The event is open to the public. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased online until Sunday, May 24 at www.womensfund.net. “We are thrilled to host our distinguished speakers as we welcome 38 highly qualified women into our LIPPI ranks,” said WFWM CEO Elizabeth Barajas-Román. “Our LIPPI program has trained more than 200 women in Western Massachusetts to run for elected office, 20% of whom have run their first race, with a 60% success rate. We know LIPPI women run, and LIPPI women win.” LIPPI is a 10-month program, the only one of its kind in Massachusetts, designed to respond to the shortage of women stepping into leadership at all levels. Focusing on areas such as public speaking, community organizing, the legislative process and policy making, fund-raising and campaigning, collaborative and cooperative working models, and board service, LIPPI gives women the tools and confidence they need to become more involved as civic leaders in their communities and to impact policy on the local, state, and national levels. Representing 40% women of color, LIPPI graduates comprise a wide spectrum of backgrounds, ethnic groups, and ages. They also represent all four Western Mass. counties, and their achievements range from running for office to managing campaigns; from fund-raising for female candidates to entering the Yale Women’s Campaign School. Two graduates are currently running for mayor in Pittsfield and Greenfield. Together, graduates form a strong cohort of like-minded women who support each other when they run for office, meet with policy makers, form coalitions, and conduct get-out-the-vote efforts. The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts is a public foundation that invests in local women and girls through strategic grant making and leadership development. Since 1997, the Women’s Fund has awarded more than $2 million in grants to nearly 100 organizations in Western Mass.

40 Under Forty
June 18:The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House the evening of June 18. The event honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, and this year’s class was profiled in the April 20 issue. This year’s winners represent virtually every sector of the economy — from financial services to manufacturing; retail to healthcare; technology to nonprofit management; education to law. They also show the seemingly innumerable ways people can give back to the community. This year’s event will feature a new award — the Continued Excellence Award, presented to the previous honoree who has most impressively built upon their track record of excellence. Nominations will be accepted through Friday, May 22 at 5 p.m. The nomination form can be found at HERE. Always one of the most anticipated events and best networking opportunities on the calendar, the gala will feature lavish food stations, entertainment, and the introduction of this year’s class. Tickets cost $65 each, with a limited number of standing-room-only tickets still available. Tickets can be ordered by calling (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or by visiting HERE. The 40 Under Forty program and gala are sponsored this year by Northwestern Mutual (presenting sponsor), Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsor), Fathers & Sons, the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank.

Valley Fest
Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). “We are honored to sponsor Valley Fest and look forward to it being an annual event that shares in the facilitation of growth within the downtown community,” said Chris Russell, executive director of the Springfield BID. Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities. A portion of Valley Fest proceeds will support several local charities.

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include MGM Springfield, Expo Social Sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, Education Sponsor; Johnson & Hill Staffing, Silver Sponsor; DIF Design, Director Level Sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, Media Sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booths prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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‘Victorian Opulence’ Exhibit
Through April 2016: On April 7, the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History unveiled a new exhibit titled “Victorian Opulence: Springfield’s Industrial Elite.” The exhibit, which runs through April 10, 2016, features a representative selection of the kinds of luxury and everyday items that would be found in the typical upper-class Victorian homes, while also exploring the lives and values of many of these prominent families. Using beautifully ornate objects from the Springfield Museums’ own collections, this exhibit provides a window into the lives of America’s privileged classes both at home and at play during the Victorian era. Some of the fine clothing and personal items, like elegant men’s pocket watches and ladies’ jewelry and hair combs, will be familiar to fans of Downton Abbey. Objects like grandfather clocks and gentleman’s ceremonial items exhibit a level of craftsmanship no longer evident today. The items on view tell many stories about their owners, the time and place in which they lived, and the level of wealth that allowed them to possess such luxury items. The exhibit covers the period between 1840 and 1900, a time when Springfield was a powerhouse of innovation and industry. Wealthy industrialists like Everett Barney, the inventor of the clamp-on ice skate, and railroad president and Congressman Chester Chapin displayed their success through their philanthropic pursuits and by making their homes into showpieces for their newfound wealth. The spirit of philanthropy shown by individuals like James Rumrill and George Walter Vincent Smith helped create some of Springfield’s most venerable institutions, including Forest Park and the Springfield Museums themselves.

Speed-networking Breakfast
May 6: The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s (ACCGS) will hold its monthly Business@Breakfast with a speed-networking theme from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Sponsored by United Personnel, the breakfast will provide attendees with a quick and entertaining opportunity to introduce themselves and pitch their company to other attendees. The core concept in speed networking is the ‘elevator speech,’ a short summary of an individual, business, organization, product, or service — a summary that a person could deliver in the time span of a short elevator ride. Attendees will be divided into two groups, seated across from each other. Each group member will have 60 seconds to give his or her elevator speech to the person seated directly across. Once each member has given their elevator speech, they will change seats, and the process will begin again with a new partner. This round-robin format of networking will continue until the event is over. The event will begin with networking and breakfast at 7:15 a.m. To accommodate the event, breakfast will not be served after 7:45 a.m., and no admittance will be allowed after 7:55 a.m. Reservations are $20 for members or $35 for general admission. Reservations must be made online and in advance at www.myonlinechamber.com or by e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

‘Life’s Impressions’ Exhibit
May 9-17: The Springfield Museums will host a community art show featuring creations by local students in grades 5 through 12. “Life’s Impressions” will be on view in the Special Exhibit Gallery of the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts. The show is free with general admission. The exhibition is funded, in part, by the Michele and Donald D’Amour Fund, established in 2008 to bring world-class art exhibitions to the museum. The 36 featured works include drawings and paintings that were selected by museum staff from more than 65 entries from the following schools: Belchertown High School, Chicopee Comprehensive High School, Hatfield Elementary School, Longmeadow High School, Northampton High School, PV Chinese Immersion Charter School, Springfield Conservatory of the Arts, Springfield Central High School, West Springfield High School, and Westfield High School. In addition to the privilege of having their art displayed at a prestigious museum, the winning students will also receive free enrollment in one of the summer art courses offered through the Museum School. The opening of “Life’s Impressions” will be celebrated with a reception in Blake Court of the D’Amour Museum on May 9 at 2 p.m. 

EASTEC
May 12-14: With manufacturing a driving force of economic growth in the Northeast, as well as across the U.S., more than 12,000 business owners, engineers, designers, production managers, and purchasing executives will gather at EASTEC, the East Coast’s premier manufacturing event. Produced by SME, the biennial event takes place at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield and features more than 650 exhibitors and three days of complimentary educational sessions. In its 34th year, the event showcases the latest manufacturing technologies from additive manufacturing/3D printing to waterjet cutting, and provides access to industry experts sharing insights on how to foster innovation, increase productivity, and improve profits. This year, attendees will also get to see more than 300 new products being highlighted at the show. “Since 1790, when the first cotton mill was founded in Rhode Island, New England has been a leader in our country’s quest to capitalize on American innovation and passion for making things,” said Kimberly Farrugia, senior event manager for SME. “EASTEC is committed to keeping New England manufacturers competitive by bringing the human ingenuity needed and manufacturing brilliance demanded together in a face-to-face environment.” At EASTEC, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with resources, research and purchase the latest technologies, and discover ways to improve productivity and increase profits. Meanwhile, the complimentary educational sessions will address trending topics such as automation innovations and Lean creativity, along with other major advancements in manufacturing. New features in 2015 will include keynote presentations from Carl Palme, applications product manager, Rethink Robotics; and Jason Prater, vice president of Development, Plex Systems, that will help with solving complex issues that U.S. manufacturers face today. EASTEC also will highlight the Bright Minds Program, designed to educate the next-generation workforce on the advancements in manufacturing that make it an exciting and rewarding career path. Winners of the Bright Minds Dream It! Do It! Student Challenge will be recognized at a special program during the three-day event. EASTEC is recommended for professionals in industries such as aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, commercial machinery, electronics, fabricating, and plastics. The event is nearly sold out, so SME encourages companies to reserve exhibit space before it’s too late. To learn more about EASTEC, view full conference and exhibit details, or register, visit easteconline.com.

Tailgate Party
May 13: The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) will hold a tailgate party at its last After 5 of its 2014-15 season, at the Residence Inn, 500 Memorial Ave., Chicopee, sponsored by Get Set Marketing. The After 5 will create a tailgating atmosphere with food trucks serving tailgating cuisine, parking-lot games such as cornhole and ladder toss, networking around outdoor firepits, and more. Reservations for the After 5 are $5 for members and $10 for general admission. Reservations may be made online by visiting www.myonlinechamber.com or by e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]. 

Striving and Driving Golf Tournament at GCC
May 18: In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the event, area residents and businesses are invited to participate in the Striving and Driving for GCC Scholars Golf Tournament at the Country Club of Greenfield. The tournament is an opportunity to enjoy golf while helping students attend Greenfield Community College. The tournament is an anchor fund-raising activity of the GCC Foundation 2015 Annual Campaign, “Investing in Students, Creating a Future.” “Striving and Driving is a win-win day for all,” said GCC President Bob Pura. “Golfers enjoy a day out on the course early in the season. People are just happy to be out after winter’s hibernation. The best part of the day comes when we all hear just how much has been raised for scholarships. You can feel the community’s goodwill and heart in that moment. It really is a wonderful day for the golfers, the community, the college, and especially the students.” Funds raised by the tournament go toward unrestricted scholarship funds for GCC students. Striving and Driving has raised $398,861 for scholarships since the tournament began. Lead sponsored by Cohn & Co. and Greenfield Savings Bank, and co-chaired by Terry Boyce and Princy Stotz, the tournament will include lunch, dinner, and prizes and awards. The field is limited to the first 144 players. Players may register either as individuals to be placed in foursomes by the tournament organizers, or as teams of four. The cost is $115 per player. “Striving and Driving combines the fun of playing golf with raising funds for scholarships for students in high need,” said tournament co-chair Terry Boyce, who teaches psychology at GCC. “I know that many GCC students depend on scholarship assistance to be able to attend college, just like I did when I studied at a community college in New York. I’m a first-generation college graduate, and scholarships made it possible for me to go to college. I’m glad that I can help others have the same opportunity that I did.” To register for the Striving and Driving Golf Tournament or for information about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.gcc.mass.edu/golf or call (413) 775-1470.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House the evening of June 18. The event honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, and this year’s class was profiled in the April 20 issue. This year’s winners represent virtually every sector of the economy — from financial services to manufacturing; retail to healthcare; technology to nonprofit management; education to law. They also show the seemingly innumerable ways people can give back to the community. This year’s event will feature a new award — the Continued Excellence Award, presented to the previous honoree who has most impressively built upon their track record of excellence. Always one of the most anticipated events and best networking opportunities on the calendar, the gala will feature lavish food stations, entertainment, and the introduction of this year’s class. Tickets cost $65 each, with tables of 10 still available. Tickets can be ordered by calling (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or by visiting HERE. The 40 Under Forty program and gala are sponsored this year by Northwestern Mutual (presenting sponsor), Paragus Strategic IT (presenting sponsor), Fathers & Sons, the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, and United Bank.

Valley Fest
Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. “Valley Fest will have the best of the best local, regional, and national beer and hard cider brands,” Berry said. “Even in our inaugural year, Valley Fest will be the largest one-day beer festival in Western Massachusetts. We expect to draw up to 2,000 enthusiasts from throughout New England. We are very excited to showcase the fourth-largest city in New England and all of its amenities.” Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. Michael Mathis, MGM Springfield president, said his company “is excited to take the lead in sponsoring the inaugural Valley Fest. The local entrepreneurial spirit of White Lion Brewing, coupled with the historic Court Square setting, is a winning combination to start a new Springfield tradition. We look forward to Aug. 29.” A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). “We are honored to sponsor Valley Fest and look forward to it being an annual event that shares in the facilitation of growth within the downtown community,” said Chris Russell, executive director of the Springfield BID. Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities. A portion of Valley Fest proceeds will support several local charities.

Western Mass.Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include MGM Springfield, Expo Social sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; DIF Design, silver sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available; booths prices start at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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CPE Forum
April 21 to June 2: The Continuing Professional Education Forum, held at the Westfield Athenaeum, has announced its seven-week spring series. All programs are three hours in length and start at 3 p.m. on the following Tuesdays:
• April 21: “The Dollars and Cents of Divorce,” Attorney Julie Dialessi-Lafley, Bacon Wilson;
• April 28: “Social Security Questions Answered,” Tim Flynn, Edward Jones;
• May 5: “Dealing with IRS Collection Division,” Attorney Eric Green, Green & Sklarz;
• May 12: “Income T’s: Today, Tomorrow, and Taxes,” Garry Heiney, Income & Wealth Advisors;
• May 19: “Why Are We Afraid to Invest?” Michael Callahan, Retirement Plan Advisory Services;
• May 26: “Exchange-traded Funds in Retirement Planning,” Michael Callahan, Retirement Advisory Plan Services; and
• June 2: “Massachusetts Employment-law Update,” Attorney Karina Schrengohost, Royal LLP.
The CPE Forum was established in 1980 by Josephine Sarnelli, CPA. She continues to volunteer her services in organizing 40 hours of educational programming each year. “The CPE Forum’s mission is to provide high-quality educational programs at a low cost to business professionals, including certified public accountants, enrolled agents, and others seeking continuing professional educational credits for licensing purposes,” she said. “It is also open to the general community.” The cost of attending the entire series is $50, which provides 21 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) credits. “Besides being an incredible value, the CPE Forum offers a place for business professionals to meet, exchange ideas, and network,” Sarnelli added. All sessions are held at Lang Auditorium at the Westfield Athenaeum, 6 Elm St., Westfield. Payment is due at the time of attending. For more information, visit www.cpeforum.org or call (413) 746-9067.

Elevator-pitch Contest
April 22: Six local community banks will sponsor a live elevator-pitch competition at the 12th annual awards banquet for the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Initiative. Representatives from each institution — Berkshire Bank, Country Bank for Savings, First Niagara Bank, PeoplesBank, United Bank, and Westfield Bank — will also serve as judges at the annual event at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. An elevator pitch is an overview of an idea for a new business. The name reflects the fact that an elevator pitch can be delivered in the time span of an elevator ride. The term is used when an entrepreneur pitches an idea to a venture capitalist to receive funding. The competition will feature a student representative from each of the participating local colleges: American International College, Amherst College, Bay Path University, Elms College, Greenfield Community College, Hampshire College, Holyoke Community College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, Springfield College, Springfield Technical Community College, UMass Amherst, Western New England University, and Westfield State University. The judges will pick the top three students, who will receive cash awards, with the winner receiving $1,000. Other features of the banquet include keynote speaker Aaron St. John, co-founder and CEO of Springfield-based HitPoint; entrepreneur and awardee exhibits featuring 76 student entrepreneurs from area colleges; and recognition of the Grinspoon, Garvey & Young Alumni Award winner, Bill Goldfarb of Lefty’s Brewery. For more information about the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, visit hgf.org or contact Cari Carpenter at (413) 335-3535 or [email protected].

Springfield Restaurant Week
April 23 to May 2: The Springfield City Council’s young professionals subcommittee, partnered with the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID), will serve up mouth-watering meals during Springfield Restaurant Week 2015. Many downtown and riverfront restaurants are featured in this event, including Chef Wayne’s Big Mamou, Currents (Marriott), Champions (Marriott), Luxe Burger Bar, Nadim’s Mediterranean, Panjabi Tadka, PICKS/MVP (Sheraton), Plan B Burger, the Fort/Student Prince, Theodore’s, Pizzeria Uno, Adolfo’s, McCaffrey’s Public House, Blackjack Steakhouse, and Shakago. Each restaurant will offer a special two- or three-course dinner menu for a set price of $20.15 per person. Further details and menus will be posted on springfielddowntown.com/dinespringfield. Event sponsors include Baystate Health, Williams Distributing, White Lion Brewing Co., Garten, LLC Landscaping and Services, Farmington Bank, MassLive, and Inspired Marketing Inc.

Breast Cancer Survivors’ Day 
April 25: Adrianne Haslet-Davis, a professional ballroom dancer who lost her lower left leg in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, will be the keynote speaker at the 18th annual Rays of Hope Breast Cancer Survivors’ Day from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MassMutual Center. “I refuse to be called a victim. I am not defined by what happened in my life. I am a survivor, defined by how I live my life,” said Haslet-Davis. The former corporate manager recently returned to the dance floor after having to relearn her craft. Through her appearances on CNN, Dancing with the Stars, The View, and other television shows — as well as at personal appearances before corporate and private audiences both large and small — she hopes her emotional honesty has served as an example to others looking to overcome adversity in their lives. Haslet-Davis has been honored with the 2013 Med Star Gala Victory Award and was recognized along with first responders from the bombing scene at the 2013 Schwartz Center Gala in Boston. She has also been honored with an On Cue Tribute Award and was named one of Cosmo’s Most Powerful Women of 2013. A CNN documentary detailing her first year after the marathon bombing, The Survivor Diaries, with Anderson Cooper, was recently nominated for an Emmy Award. In addition to the keynote address by Haslet-Davis, participants will be able to select from two workshops on a number of topics, including “Breast Reconstruction,” “Hormone Therapy and Sexuality after Breast Cancer,” “Tai Chi – Regain 8 Years of Youth,” Safe and Effective Skin Care Products after Treatment,” “Why Laughter is the Best Medicine,” and others. There will also be two sessions offered in Spanish only: “Yoga en Movimiento” and “Cómo Enfrentar los Efectos Psicológicos y Emocionales del Cancer.” This year’s event will again include an art display from the Rays of Hope-sponsored Art from the Heart program facilitated by Pat Hayes. Participants will also be able to choose from two interactive stations during the day. In “Paint Social Art!” a local artist will guide painters — no experience necessary — in creating their own mini-painting which they can display at home. At the “Creative Card Bar,” women from Life’s Memories and More will assist participants in a do-it-yourself card-making session. There will also be networking opportunities throughout the day and the chance to visit with several exhibitors selling a variety of breast-related products and more. A continental breakfast and buffet luncheon will be served. Registration is required. The cost is $35 per person, with the remaining expenses underwritten by Rays of Hope. Parking will be validated for the Civic Center Parking Garage only. For those unable to afford the fee, a limited number of scholarships are available for breast-cancer survivors by calling Sandra Hubbard at the Rays of Hope Outreach Office at (413) 794-9556. For more information on the 18th annual Breast Cancer Survivors’ Day, or to request a registration form, call (413) 794-9556. For more information on Rays of Hope, visit www.baystatehealth.org/raysofhope.

Family Craft Day
April 25: Forastiere Family Funeral & Cremation, which has served the Greater Springfield community since 1905, announced its first ever Family Craft Day, to be held from 9 a.m. to noon at Captain Charles Leonard House on Main Street in Agawam. “This is the time of year when we are celebrating Mother’s Day and Father’s Day. As part of our commitment to our community, we wanted to offer families a fun and creative way to mark those holidays, regardless of whether or not they have lost a loved one,” said Frank Forastiere, president and funeral director of Forastiere Family Funeral & Cremation. All are invited to create gifts for Mother’s and Father’s Day, for teachers and grandparents, as a remembrance of a lost loved one, or as a simple thank you. The Family Craft Day is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served. To reserve a spot, call (413) 525-2800. For information about Forastiere Family Funeral & Cremation, visit forastiere.com.

Military Ball & Gala
April 25: The Pioneer Valley USO announced that the fifth annual Military Ball & Gala Honoring Our Troops will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Presenting sponsors include Steve Lewis Subaru and 1812 Auto Body, and the Purple Heart sponsor is Bay Path University. Music will be provided by the Bronx Wanderers. Tickets are available by calling the USO office in Chicopee at (413) 557-3290. The Military Ball & Gala is the largest fund-raising effort of the year and funds many of the Pioneer Valley USO’s programs and services. It was designed in keeping with the long-standing traditions of formal military balls while allowing the public to attend and participate in a gala evening. Military formal and business dress is required. The Pioneer Valley USO serves the needs of active military and their families through the individual efforts of the volunteers, board of directors, and the public.

VVM Awards Ceremony
April 30: Valley Venture Mentors (VVM) will host its inaugural Accelerator Awards event at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The event will honor recent graduates of its new Accelerator Program, which is currently grooming 29 startup teams from across the Pioneer Valley for success by imparting meaningful business knowledge, structure, and tools. During the awards ceremony, the organization will award grants of up to $50,000 each to startup teams selected as finalists. The event runs from 5 to 8:30 p.m. and will include a lively networking reception as well as a dinner and awards program, featuring startup teams and an address by John Harthorne, founder and CEO of MassChallenge. This year’s Accelerator Program is funded by MassMutual, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, with the mission to support an entrepreneurial renaissance in Springfield and the Pioneer Valley. During the four-month Accelerator Program, each team is assigned to a peer-supported group, introduced to VVM advisors, and provided free co-working space in downtown Springfield. The teams engage in investment-readiness boot camps with hands-on training, expert-led lectures, peer collaboration, advisor meetings, and practice judging rounds. Teams also participate in VVM’s ongoing weekly workshops that cover strategy, innovation, marketing, sales, team building/dynamics, best practices, fund-raising, and introductions to term-sheet and valuation processes. The positive, rigorous training program is structured around the Lean LaunchPad curriculum, which emphasizes achieving the highest possible investment-readiness level and overcoming the three main causes of startup death: failing to achieve product-market fit, premature scaling, and team-member dynamics.

Not Just Business as Usual
April 30: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event is one of the premiere networking events for business leaders in Western Mass. This annual celebration, in its sixth year, is a celebration of innovative thinking which gives participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. The event will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and the keynote speaker, Google Engineering Director Steve Vinter, to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Vinter has overseen the growth of Google’s Cambridge site from 15 software engineers in 2007 to more than 900 today. He is responsible for developing digital-publishing products such as Google eBooks, Google Play Newsstand, and Play for Education, and has over 20 years of industry experience working in the Boston area, focusing on building products and services for hundreds of millions of users of mobile and cloud computing. He also is the co-founder of MassCAN, a partnership of organizations which collaborate to inspire and educate students in Massachusetts to learn computing and prepare them to lead and innovate the future economy, which will be driven by computer technology. This year, NJBAU will feature interactive workstations featuring the STCC Mobile SIM and Engineering program. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $100 each, and sponsorships begin at $1,500. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

EASTEC
May 12-14: With manufacturing a driving force of economic growth in the Northeast, as well as across the U.S., more than 12,000 business owners, engineers, designers, production managers, and purchasing executives will gather at EASTEC, the East Coast’s premier manufacturing event. Produced by SME, the biennial event takes place at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield and features more than 650 exhibitors and three days of complimentary educational sessions. In its 34th year, the event showcases the latest manufacturing technologies from additive manufacturing/3D printing to waterjet cutting, and provides access to industry experts sharing insights on how to foster innovation, increase productivity, and improve profits. This year, attendees will also get to see more than 300 new products being highlighted at the show. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with resources, research and purchase the latest technologies, and discover ways to improve productivity and increase profits. Meanwhile, the complimentary educational sessions will address trending topics such as automation innovations and Lean creativity, along with other major advancements in manufacturing. New features in 2015 will include keynote presentations from Carl Palme, applications product manager, Rethink Robotics; and Jason Prater, vice president of Development, Plex Systems. To learn more about EASTEC, view full conference and exhibit details, or register, visit easteconline.com.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. The event honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, whose stories are told in this issue. Tickets to the event cost $65, and tables of 10 are still available. Order by calling (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or by visiting HERE. Sponsors include Northwestern Mutual (presenting sponsor), Fathers & Sons, the Isenberg School of Mamagement at UMass Amherst, Moriarty & Primack, Paragus Strategic IT, and United Bank.

Western Mass. Business Expo
Nov. 4: Comcast Business will present the fifth annual Western Mass. Business Expo at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield, produced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News in partnership with Go Graphix and Rider Productions. The business-to-business show will feature more than 100 booths, seminars and Show Floor Theater presentations, breakfast and lunch programs, and a day-capping Expo Social and the return of the Valley Venture Mentors Pitch Contest. Details about specific events, programs, and featured speakers will be printed in future issues of BusinessWest. Current sponsors include MGM Springfield, Expo Social sponsor; the Isenberg School of Business at UMass Amherst, education sponsor; DIF Design, silver sponsor; and 94.7 WMAS, media sponsor. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Exhibitor spaces are also available, with booth prices starting at $750. For more information on sponsorships or booth purchase, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100.

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‘Victorian Opulence’ Exhibit
Through April 2016: On April 7, the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History unveiled a new exhibit titled “Victorian Opulence: Springfield’s Industrial Elite.” The exhibit, which runs through April 10, 2016, features a representative selection of the kinds of luxury and everyday items that would be found in the typical upper-class Victorian homes, while also exploring the lives and values of many of these prominent families. Using beautifully ornate objects from the Springfield Museums’ own collections, this exhibit provides a window into the lives of America’s privileged classes both at home and at play during the Victorian era. Some of the fine clothing and personal items, like elegant men’s pocket watches and ladies’ jewelry and hair combs, will be familiar to fans of Downton Abbey. Objects like grandfather clocks and gentleman’s ceremonial items exhibit a level of craftsmanship no longer evident today. The items on view tell many stories about their owners, the time and place in which they lived, and the level of wealth that allowed them to possess such luxury items. The exhibit covers the period between 1840 and 1900, a time when Springfield was a powerhouse of innovation and industry. Wealthy industrialists like Everett Barney, the inventor of the clamp-on ice skate, and railroad president and Congressman Chester Chapin displayed their success through their philanthropic pursuits and by making their homes into showpieces for their newfound wealth. The spirit of philanthropy shown by individuals like James Rumrill and George Walter Vincent Smith helped create some of Springfield’s most venerable institutions, including Forest Park and the Springfield Museums themselves.

Employment-law Seminar
April 9: Due to the high volume of interest, Royal LLP will present an encore of its seminar pertaining to three major changes in employment law that every employer needs to be aware of for 2015. The seminar will take place from 8 to 9 a.m. at the company’s offices at 270 Pleasant St., Northampton. At this roundtable, the company will focus on sick leave, domestic-violence leave, and paternity leave, and will also flag an issue with respect to the Affordable Care Act relating to healthcare reimbursement, as well as minimum wage. The seminar will be led by principal Amy Royal. Cost is $30 per person; payments may be mailed to Royal LLP, 270 Pleasant St., Northampton, MA 01060. Advance registration is required, and seating will be limited. Contact Ann-Marie Marcil at [email protected] to register.

Remembrance Service
April 19: Families who have experienced the death of a child over the past year are invited to attend the annual Service of Remembrance held by Baystate Children’s Hospital. All family members and friends are invited to attend the event, which will be held at 1 p.m. at Baystate Medical Center’s Chestnut Conference Center at 759 Chestnut St., Springfield. It is also open to families with losses prior to 2014. Baystate Children’s Hospital staff will be in attendance at the event to remember and pay tribute to the children and families who were under their care. Families are asked to respond by April 13 with the number of adults and children planning to attend the event, as well as their child’s name, if they would like it printed in the memorial-service program. Families with earlier losses are simply asked to call and register. To respond, call Marge Bloom (413) 794-5559. “We hope that the Service of Remembrance and the reception that follows will provide a unique opportunity for a special group of families to come together to remember and honor their children,” said Bloom. The service will include readings, music, and a ceremony of light. Families can share a photograph or other memento of their child on a ‘table of memories’ at the event. They may also choose to have their child’s name printed in the program and read aloud during the service, regardless of whether they can attend. As part of the service, families will be given a piece of fabric which they can personalize in memory of their child before it is added, along with others, to create a memory quilt. The quilt will be displayed this September, along with other quilts created in past years, at Baystate’s annual Memorial Quilt Exhibit. For more information on Baystate Children’s Hospital, visit www.baystatehealth.org/bch.

Restaurant Week
April 23 to May 2: The Springfield City Council’s young professionals subcommittee, partnered with the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID), will serve up mouth-watering meals during Springfield Restaurant Week 2015. Many downtown and riverfront restaurants are featured in this event, including Chef Wayne’s Big Mamou, Currents (Marriott), Champions (Marriott), Luxe Burger Bar, Nadim’s Mediterranean, Panjabi Tadka, PICKS/MVP (Sheraton), Plan B Burger, the Fort/Student Prince, Theodore’s, Pizzeria Uno, Adolfo’s, McCaffrey’s Public House, Blackjack Steakhouse, and Shakago. Each restaurant will offer a special two- or three-course dinner menu for a set price of $20.15 per person. Further details and menus will be posted on springfielddowntown.com/dinespringfield. City Councilor Justin Hurst, who chairs the young professionals subcommittee, noted that the event “is an opportunity for not only young professionals, but families and the community at large to experience the unique spread the city has to offer.” Added BID Assistant Director Morgan Drewniany, “we’re proud to forge a partnership with the YP subcommittee to promote a vibrant downtown through supporting Springfield restaurants.” Event sponsors include Baystate Health, Williams Distributing, White Lion Brewing Co., Garten, LLC Landscaping and Services, Farmington Bank, MassLive, and Inspired Marketing Inc.

Bowl for Kids’ Sake
April 25: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Franklin County will host Bowl for Kids’ Sake, the mentoring organization’s biggest annual fund-raiser, at the French King Entertainment Center in Erving from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The 45 year-old, donor-funded organization challenges everyone — mentors and mentees, their friends and families, business people, community leaders, and others who may not have time to mentor, but still support Big Brothers Big Sisters’ mission — to join Bowl for Kids’ Sake help change the life of a child forever. For more than 40 years, Bowl for Kids’ Sake has supported Big Brothers Big Sisters agencies across the country, becoming its premiere fund-raising event and raising $20 million nationwide each year. People interested in forming a team should contact Big Brothers Big Sisters of Franklin County directly, via [email protected] or (413) 772-0915. Once a team is formed, each team member should starting soliciting donations from friends, colleagues, or family members. The minimum total pledge amount, per team member, is $75. In addition, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Franklin County is still accepting corporate sponsors for this event. Bowl for Kids’ Sake 2015 challenges bowlers to dress like a superhero. Prizes will be awarded to teams and individuals for creativity and team unity. In addition, all bowlers can qualify for gift certificates to area restaurants by raising $100 or more; all bowlers who raise $75 or more automatically receive a free T-shirt. The day will also include 50/50 raffles, a photo booth provided by Base Camp Photo, music, food, drink, and more.

Military Ball & Gala
April 25: The Pioneer Valley USO announced that the fifth annual Military Ball & Gala Honoring Our Troops will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Presenting sponsors include Steve Lewis Subaru and 1812 Auto Body, and the Purple Heart sponsor is Bay Path University. Music will be provided by the Bronx Wanderers. Tickets are available by calling the USO office in Chicopee at (413) 557-3290. The Military Ball & Gala is the largest fund-raising effort of the year and funds many of the Pioneer Valley USO’s programs and services. It was designed in keeping with the long-standing traditions of formal military balls while allowing the public to attend and participate in a gala evening. Military formal and business dress is required. The Pioneer Valley USO serves the needs of active military and their families through the efforts of volunteers, the board of directors, and the public.

Not Just Business as Usual
April 30: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event is one of the premiere networking events for business leaders in Western Mass. This annual celebration, in its sixth year, is a celebration of innovative thinking which gives participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. The event will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and the keynote speaker, Google Engineering Director Steve Vinter, to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Vinter has overseen the growth of Google’s Cambridge site from 15 software engineers in 2007 to more than 900 today. He is responsible for developing digital-publishing products such as Google eBooks, Google Play Newsstand, and Play for Education, and has over 20 years of industry experience working in the Boston area, focusing on building products and services for hundreds of millions of users of mobile and cloud computing. He also is the co-founder of MassCAN, a partnership of organizations which collaborate to inspire and educate students in Massachusetts to learn computing and prepare them to lead and innovate the future economy, which will be driven by computer technology. This year, NJBAU will feature interactive workstations featuring the STCC Mobile SIM and Engineering program. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $100 each, and sponsorships begin at $1,500. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

VVM Awards Ceremony
April 30: Valley Venture Mentors (VVM) will host its inaugural Accelerator Awards event at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The event will honor recent graduates of its new Accelerator Program, which is currently grooming 29 startup teams from across the Pioneer Valley for success by imparting meaningful business knowledge, structure, and tools. During the awards ceremony, the organization will award grants of up to $50,000 each to startup teams selected as finalists. The event runs from 5 to 8:30 p.m. and will include a lively networking reception as well as a dinner and awards program, featuring startup teams and an address by John Harthorne, founder and CEO of MassChallenge. This year’s Accelerator Program is funded by MassMutual, the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, Irene E. & George A. Davis Foundation, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, with the mission to support an entrepreneurial renaissance in Springfield and the Pioneer Valley. According to VVM founder Paul Silva, “this event is the ideal opportunity to see firsthand the excitement that VVM and the Accelerator Program are generating, so we hope everyone who is interested in learning about VVM’s work will join us for an inspiring evening.” During the four-month Accelerator Program, each team is assigned to a peer-supported group, introduced to VVM advisors, and provided free co-working space in downtown Springfield. The teams engage in investment-readiness boot camps with hands-on training, expert-led lectures, peer collaboration, advisor meetings, and practice judging rounds. Teams also participate in VVM’s ongoing weekly workshops that cover strategy, innovation, marketing, sales, team building/dynamics, best practices, fund-raising, and introductions to term-sheet and valuation processes. “VVM takes a lovingly critical approach to training its startups,” Silva said. “We put the entrepreneur first in every endeavor.” The positive, rigorous training program is structured around the Lean LaunchPad curriculum, which emphasizes achieving the highest possible investment-readiness level and overcoming the three main causes of startup death: failing to achieve product-market fit, premature scaling, and team-member dynamics. “We provide comprehensive, effective resources for our teams,” Silva added. “Our real aim is to provide our groups with preparation beyond the presentation. We want them to build their businesses for the long term.”

EASTEC
May 12-14: With manufacturing a driving force of economic growth in the Northeast, as well as across the U.S., more than 12,000 business owners, engineers, designers, production managers, and purchasing executives will gather at EASTEC, the East Coast’s premier manufacturing event. Produced by SME, the biennial event takes place at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield and features more than 650 exhibitors and three days of complimentary educational sessions. In its 34th year, the event showcases the latest manufacturing technologies from additive manufacturing/3D printing to waterjet cutting, and provides access to industry experts sharing insights on how to foster innovation, increase productivity, and improve profits. This year, attendees will also get to see more than 300 new products being highlighted at the show. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with resources, research and purchase the latest technologies, and discover ways to improve productivity and increase profits. Meanwhile, the complimentary educational sessions will address trending topics such as automation innovations and Lean creativity, along with other major advancements in manufacturing. New features in 2015 will include keynote presentations from Carl Palme, applications product manager, Rethink Robotics; and Jason Prater, vice president of Development, Plex Systems, that will help with solving complex issues that U.S. manufacturers face today. EASTEC also will highlight the Bright Minds Program, designed to educate the next-generation workforce on the advancements in manufacturing that make it an exciting and rewarding career path. Winners of the Bright Minds Dream It! Do It! Student Challenge will be recognized at a special program during the three-day event. EASTEC is recommended for professionals in industries such as aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, commercial machinery, electronics, fabricating, and plastics. The event is nearly sold out, so SME encourages companies to reserve exhibit space before it’s too late. To learn more about EASTEC, view full conference and exhibit details, or register, visit easteconline.com.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. The class of 2015 will be revealed and profiled in the April 20 issue.

Valley Fest
Aug. 29: White Lion Brewing Co. announced that it will host its inaugural beer festival, called Valley Fest, at Court Square in downtown Springfield. MGM Springfield will be the presenting sponsor. The festival is poised to be White Lion’s signature annual event, introducing the young brand to craft-beer enthusiasts throughout New England and beyond. White Lion Brewing Co., the city of Springfield’s only brewery, launched in October 2014. Founder Ray Berry and brewmaster Mike Yates have released three selections under the White Lion brand and have been busy promoting their efforts in venues all over Massachusetts and other New England states. “Valley Fest will have the best of the best local, regional, and national beer and hard cider brands,” Berry said. “Even in our inaugural year, Valley Fest will be the largest one-day beer festival in Western Massachusetts. We expect to draw up to 2,000 enthusiasts from throughout New England. We are very excited to showcase the fourth-largest city in New England and all of its amenities.” Berry anticipates that more than 50 breweries and many local food vendors will converge on Court Square for two sessions. Enthusiasts will have an opportunity to sample more than 100 varieties of beer and hard cider alongside pairing selections by local chefs. Michael Mathis, MGM Springfield president, said “the local entrepreneurial spirit of White Lion Brewing, coupled with the historic Court Square setting, is a winning combination to start a new Springfield tradition.” A number of sponsors have already committed to the event, including MassMutual Financial Group, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, the Dennis Group, Springfield Sheraton Monarch Place, Paragus Strategic IT, Williams Distributing, and the Springfield Business Improvement District (BID). “We are honored to sponsor Valley Fest and look forward to it being an annual event that shares in the facilitation of growth within the downtown community,” said Chris Russell, executive director of the Springfield BID. Visit www.valleybrewfest.com for event details, ongoing updates, and sponsorship opportunities.

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‘Creating and Leveraging Networks for Success’
March 25: Leadership Pioneer Valley (LPV) will present “Creating and Leveraging Networks for Success” from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Gateway City Arts in Holyoke. The program will feature Gibran Rivera, senior associate at the Interaction Institute for Social Change in Boston. He will provide a crash course on strategic networking and educate attendees on how to thrive in a networked world, strategize as a networked professional, and overcome networking obstacles. Rivera moved from Puerto Rico to Westfield at age 12 and says the experience of “becoming a minority” has come to define his life’s work. He is the originator of Start & Thrive Studio and maintains a long-time affiliation with the Interaction Institute for Social Change, where he works on the development of leaders, organizations, and networks, and uses coaching, training, process design, and facilitation in service of those who are committed to social transformation. The program is being sponsored by Griffin Staffing Network. The cost is $45 for LPV members and $60 for non-members. For more information or to register, call (413) 737-3876.

Spaghetti Supper
March 25: The Gray House will hold its 24th annual Spaghetti Supper from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Greek Cultural Center, 22 St. George St., Springfield. This special event is a crucial fund-raiser for the Gray House, typically attracting about 400 attendees. Tickets for the event are $5 for adults and $3 for children, and may be purchased at the door. In addition to the supper, there will be a raffle and a silent auction. This year, first prize at the raffle is a foursome to the Ranch Golf Club in Southwick, valued at $400. The East Longmeadow Knights of Columbus Council #9960 will once again be cooking the meal for the spaghetti supper. All proceeds will help the Gray House provide food, clothing, and educational services to neighbors in need. This year, the Gray House will honor Bay Path University (BPU) for its overall support. “We’re excited to honor Bay Path and acknowledge their assistant director of Student Activities, Michelle Mirti, and Dr. Kathryn Wiezbicki-Stevens from the Psychology Department,” said Dena Calvanese, executive director of the Gray House. “These two women have introduced many fantastic Bay Path students to the Gray House, and some of those students have become dedicated, compassionate, and very active volunteers. The Gray House relies on volunteers, and the Bay Path community truly makes a difference for the Gray House and, more importantly, to the people we serve.” The Gray House is a small, neighborhood agency located in and serving the North End of Springfield, one of the city’s poorest neighborhoods and one of the poorest in the state, where than 50% of residents live in poverty and struggle to meet their daily needs. The Gray House assists by providing food, clothing, adult education, and after-school and summer programming for children, and has been providing such support for 30 years and assisted nearly 11,000 people in 2014. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (413) 734-6696, e-mail [email protected], or visit www.grayhouse.org.

EANE Management Conference
March 26: The Employers Association of the NorthEast (EANE) announced that its 11th annual Management Conference will be held at the Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel, with a focus on employee engagement. The full-day conference will address how managers and supervisors can create a culture of engagement, alignment, and loyalty to improve organizational performance. “Statistics show that only 29% of the workforce is engaged, while 45% is not engaged and, most alarming, 26% is disengaged,” said Meredith Wise, EANE president. “The benefits of high employee engagement are clear.” The program will feature Kevin Kruse, an expert on the power of leadership and employee engagement, and leadership columnist for Forbes. He is a New York Times bestselling author of Employee Engagement 2.0 and Employee Engagement for Everyone. The conference also includes a peer panel discussion on engagement, breakout sessions, and a special presentation on “Creating a POP! Culture of Engagement” with Rich Trombetta of Innovation Is Easy. The cost for the program is $325 per person, with discounts for three or more. Register at www.eane.org or by calling (877) 662-6444. The program will offer 6.25 credits from the HR Certification Institute. Sponsoring the program are United Personnel and the CPA firm Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C.

Red Cross Open House
March 26: The American Red Cross of Western Massachusetts will host a recruitment event and open house 2 to 7 p.m. at its new location at 150 Brookdale Dr., Springfield. The goal of the event is to showcase all of the volunteer opportunities available in community. Prospective volunteers will be able to visit table displays representing the programs and services of the Red Cross. Attendees can speak with active volunteers who can answer questions about what is involved. Opportunities exist to respond to local disasters and provide relief to victims, including sheltering and feeding on larger events, working as a liaison with Red Cross partners, assisting with registration at blood drives, or staffing the reception desk. There are also openings to teach CPR, first aid, and preparedness education or help with various office-related tasks. “The Red Cross provides the training and resources to enable our volunteers to truly make a difference in our community,” said Mary Nathan, disaster program manager. The Red Cross asks that people consider sharing their time and talent to make a difference in the community, and visit the open house. Tours will be offered to all who attend. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

Home & Garden Show
March 26-29: The original Western Massachusetts Home & Garden Show will take place at the Eastern States Exposition, in the Better Living Center and the Young Building, showcasing the latest trends from local home-improvement businesses, including Boilard Lumber, Baystate Rug & Flooring, Hampden Zimmerman Lighting Design Showroom, Ondrick Natural Earth, Serv-U Locksmiths, and Yankee Mattress Factory. The Home & Garden Show is the region’s premier show for preparing consumers and construction professionals for the upcoming building season. From first-time homeowners and weekend-warrior renovation enthusiasts to lawn and garden experts and contractors, the Home & Garden Show offers home-improvement and commercial-building solutions for a wide audience. The days and hours are Thursday, March 26, 2 to 9 p.m.; Friday, March 27, 1 to 9 p.m.; Saturday, March 28, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, March 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission is $10 per person. Children under 12 are free. Active military and veterans get free admission on Thursday with valid ID. Visit the Home & Garden Show website, westernmasshomeshow.com, for reduced-admission coupons.
 
Legends of Music
March 29: A rock and roll tribute to the legends of American music will help to raise funds for the local USO of Pioneer Valley. The show will take place at Chez Josef in Agawam, with cocktails at 4 p.m., seating at 5 p.m., and the show beginning at 6 p.m. Local tribute artists include Ray Guillemette Jr. as Elvis Presley, Rick Larimore as Rod Stewart, Ben Ashley as Buddy Holly, Charlie Lask as Neil Diamond, Atoa Ripley with a tribute to Lou Rawls and Tom Jones, Brian McCullough with a tribute to Roy Orbison, Erving Lewis as Lionel Ritchie, Patrick Tobin with a tribute to Frank Sinatra, Nicky Fuller as Lady Gaga, Gregorio Malante as Tina Turner, and Vicki Rose with a tribute to Celine Dion. All will be backed up by Joe Perreira’s Western Mass All Stars. Tickets cost $20 and are available at Chez Josef. Call the Chez Josef box office at (413) 355-5394 to reserve a seat.

Transitioning Business Ownership
March 31: One of the largest challenges facing business owners today is how to solve the question, “how do I get out of my business?” If you are like 2.7 million American business owners over the age of 55, the answer carries a greater significance. The country is embarking on the largest transition of business ownership in history, yet three out of four owners haven’t taken a single step to prepare for what will be the most competitive sellers’ market ever. The good news is, it’s not too late to start planning. Kevin and Michael Vann of the Vann Group are providing a primer on what you need to know about the succession/transition planning process from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Colony Club in Springfield. Topics to be discussed include the current transition/succession landscape, establishing transition expectations and objectives, business valuation facts and realities, family and partner dynamics, exit options and structure considerations, preparing the company for transition, and your advisors and the value they create. Breakfast will be served, and each attendee will receive a free, customized Business Exit/Transition Readiness Analysis ($1,000 value). To register, contact Michael Wright at (413) 543-2776 or [email protected], or register online.

ACCGS Business@Breakfast
April 1: The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) April Business@Breakfast will feature a Mayors’ Forum as the highlight of the event from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke, sponsored by United Personnel Services. Dave Madsen, managing editor and primary anchor for abc40, will moderate an informal discussion with West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan, Westfield Mayor Daniel Knapik, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. The discussion will provide attendees with an inside look at the personal and professional lives of these elected officials. Sullivan is halfway through his first term as mayor. Knapik has served as mayor of Westfield since 2010 and announced this year that he is seeking out new challenges and will not be running for another term. Sarno has announced his candidacy for a fourth term in office. If elected and he completes the entire term, it would make him the longest-standing mayor in Springfield’s history. Business@Breakfast is a monthly series that pays tribute to individuals, businesses, and organizations for major contributions to civic and economic growth and for actions that bring honor to the region. Tickets are $20 for ACCGS members and $30 for general admission. Reservations are suggested and can be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Member Services Director Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]. Sponsorship opportunities are also available; contact Mazzaferro at (413) 755-1313 for information.

Employment-law Seminar
April 9: Due to the high volume of interest, Royal LLP will present an encore of its seminar pertaining to three major changes in employment law that every employer needs to be aware of for 2015. The seminar will take place from 8 to 9 a.m. at the company’s offices at 270 Pleasant St., Northampton. At this roundtable, the company will focus on sick leave, domestic-violence leave, and paternity leave, and will also flag an issue with respect to the Affordable Care Act relating to healthcare reimbursement, as well as minimum wage. The seminar will be led by principal Amy Royal. Cost is $30 per person; payments may be mailed to Royal LLP, 270 Pleasant St., Northampton, MA 01060. Advance registration is required, and seating will be limited. Contact Ann-Marie Marcil at [email protected] to register.

Not Just Business as Usual
April 30: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event is one of the premiere networking events for business leaders in Western Mass. This annual celebration, in its sixth year, is a celebration of innovative thinking which gives participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. The event will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and the keynote speaker, Google Engineering Director Steve Vinter, to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Vinter has overseen the growth of Google’s Cambridge site from 15 software engineers in 2007 to more than 900 today. He is responsible for developing digital-publishing products such as Google eBooks, Google Play Newsstand, and Play for Education, and has over 20 years of industry experience working in the Boston area, focusing on building products and services for hundreds of millions of users of mobile and cloud computing. He also is the co-founder of MassCAN, a partnership of organizations which collaborate to inspire and educate students in Massachusetts to learn computing and prepare them to lead and innovate the future economy, which will be driven by computer technology. This year, NJBAU will feature interactive workstations featuring the STCC Mobile SIM and Engineering program. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $100 each, and sponsorships begin at $1,500. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

EASTEC
May 12-14: With manufacturing a driving force of economic growth in the Northeast, as well as across the U.S., more than 12,000 business owners, engineers, designers, production managers, and purchasing executives will gather at EASTEC, the East Coast’s premier manufacturing event. Produced by SME, the biennial event takes place at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield and features more than 650 exhibitors and three days of complimentary educational sessions. In its 34th year, the event showcases the latest manufacturing technologies from additive manufacturing/3D printing to waterjet cutting, and provides access to industry experts sharing insights on how to foster innovation, increase productivity, and improve profits. This year, attendees will also get to see more than 300 new products being highlighted at the show. At EASTEC, attendees will have the opportunity to connect with resources, research and purchase the latest technologies, and discover ways to improve productivity and increase profits. Meanwhile, the complimentary educational sessions will address trending topics such as automation innovations and Lean creativity, along with other major advancements in manufacturing. New features in 2015 will include keynote presentations from Carl Palme, applications product manager, Rethink Robotics; and Jason Prater, vice president of Development, Plex Systems, that will help with solving complex issues that U.S. manufacturers face today. EASTEC also will highlight the Bright Minds Program, designed to educate the next-generation workforce on the advancements in manufacturing that make it an exciting and rewarding career path. Winners of the Bright Minds Dream It! Do It! Student Challenge will be recognized at a special program during the three-day event. EASTEC is recommended for professionals in industries such as aerospace, defense, medical, automotive, commercial machinery, electronics, fabricating, and plastics. The event is nearly sold out, so SME encourages companies to reserve exhibit space before it’s too late. To learn more about EASTEC, view full conference and exhibit details, or register, visit easteconline.com.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. The class of 2015 will be revealed and profiled in the April 20 issue.

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Speed-networking Event
March 11: Back by popular demand, the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) will hold an afternoon of speed networking on March 11 at Frank Webb’s Bath Center, 145 Performance Blvd., Springfield, followed by an evening of informal networking at its After 5. The combination of events will provide attendees the opportunity to meet new contacts in a formal manner, then continue conversations in an informal and casual setting. The core concept to speed networking is the ‘elevator speech,’ a short summary of an individual, business, organization, product, or service that a person could deliver in the time span of a short elevator ride. Attendees will be divided into groups A and B. Members of each group will be seated across from each other. Each member of Group A will have 60 seconds to give his or her elevator speech to a member of Group B. A bell will ring, signaling the 60-second time is up, and each member of Group B will then get a chance to speak. The facilitator will signal when the 60 seconds are up again, and members of Group A will then move one seat to the right and begin the process again with a new partner. The round-robin format of networking will continue until the event is over. The event begins at 3:30 p.m. with registration and instructions. To accommodate the event, no admittance will be allowed after 3:55 p.m. The event ends at 5 p.m., and the After 5 runs from 5 to 7 p.m. Reservations are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and only members of the ACCGS, Springfield Chamber of Commerce, or East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce are eligible to participate. Reservations include a complimentary ticket to the After 5. Reservations for the After 5 only are $5 for members, $10 for general admission. The After 5 is open to the general public. Reservations may be made online and in advance at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

New Lecture Series
March 12: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News are pleased to announce a new lecture series presented by Comcast Business. This series of lectures, panel discussions, and presentations will address timely and important business information, and is an ideal opportunity to meet industry leaders and network with area business professionals. The first event in the series, called “Technology Has the Power to Change Healthcare,” will be hosted by La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Panelists include Neil Kudler, vice president and chief medical information officer for Baystate Health; Michael Feld, CEO of VertitechIT and acting chief technology officer of Baystate Health and Lancaster General Hospital; and Delcie Bean IV, CEO, of Paragus Strategic IT. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m., followed by breakfast and networking at 7:30 a.m. and the panel discussion from 8 to 9 a.m. Admission is free, provided by Comcast Business, but RSVP is required by Thursday, March 5. Sign up online at businesswest.com/lecture-series, or call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, for more information.

Celebrate Springfield Dinner
March 12: DevelopSpringfield will host its fourth annual dinner event in celebration of Springfield and the many accomplishments the community has achieved over the past year, along with exciting new initiatives underway. The event will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. Festivities will include a reception with live music by the Eric Bascom Trio, auction activities, a cash bar, and hors d’oeuvres, followed by dinner, a brief program, and presentations. Platinum sponsors this year are MassMutual Financial Group, Baystate Health, and Health New England. Many other local businesses and organizations are also supporting the organization’s work as sponsors and participants at the event. DevelopSpringfield will once again present its Partner in Progress Award to recognize the outstanding contributions of three individuals toward revitalization in Springfield. Honorees are selected for their leadership and ability to motivate and inspire others. This year’s honorees are Jerald Griffin, co-founder of Harambee and the Stone Soul Festival; Kevin Kennedy, chief development officer for the city of Springfield; and Evan Plotkin, president and owner of NAI Plotkin. In addition to the program and award presentations, greetings will be provided by Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Jay Ash, newly appointed secretary of the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development. All event proceeds will support DevelopSpringfield’s redevelopment initiatives, projects, and programs. More than 450 attendees — including federal, state, and city officials; leaders from the business and nonprofit communities; and local residents — are expected to come together in support of ongoing efforts to advance development and redevelopment projects, stimulate and support economic growth, and expedite the revitalization process within the city. Registration and sponsorship information is available at www.developspringfield.com or by contacting Paige Thayer at (413) 209-8808 or [email protected]. Tickets cost $75 per person, and RSVP is required by Monday, Feb. 23.

PWC Luncheon
March 18: Tracy Noonan, co-owner of Wicked Good Cupcakes, will keynote the Headline Luncheon of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s affiliate, the Professional Women’s Chamber (PWC), from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Noonan and her daughter, Danielle Vilagie, took their Cohasset-based cupcake baking company national after appearing on the ABC hit show Shark Tank. Wicked Good Cupcakes began when the mother-daughter team took cake-decorating classes as a way to spend quality time together. After posting their work online for friends and family, they found themselves being asked to create cupcakes for various events. The demand for their product became so high that they opened their first retail location in Cohasset in October 2011. As the reputation of their product grew, they found themselves getting hundreds of requests to ship their product across the country. However, they could not find a way to effectively ship cupcakes and have them arrive intact and fresh. That’s when they came up for the idea of a cupcake in a jar. Filling jars with freshly baked layers of cake, frosting, and filling, they were able to create a product that would stay fresh up to 10 days without refrigeration and could be easily shipped. The company’s popularity quickly grew, and, in 2013, Noonan and Vilagie appeared on Shark Tank, striking a deal with Boston-based shark Kevin O’Leary of O’Leary Ventures, and expanding their business by more than 600%, including a new retail location in Faneuil Hall in Boston and expanded facilities to handle online orders. In addition to cupcakes, the company’s product line now also includes gluten-free options, as well as pies, cheesecakes, and brownies in a jar, as well as French macaroons. Advance reservations for the luncheon are suggested and cost $25 for PWC members and $35 for general admission. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by e-mailing [email protected]. PWC members who are season-pass holders must pre-register for the event by emailing [email protected].

‘Acting Skills for Real Life’
March 19 to April 16: The Division of Graduate and Continuing Education at Westfield State University will offer a class called “Acting Skills for Real Life: How to Connect and Communicate” on Thursday nights, March 19 through April 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. Students will learn about basic acting skills and theories, and how they can be applied to everyday situations such as job interviews and social settings, in addition to performances and public speaking. Course content includes vocal, movement, and imagination warmups and theatre games; improvisations around a specific set of circumstances, including real-life situations and role reversal; developing stage presence; and, if the class chooses, rehearsal and class performance of a brief scene or monologue as a rehearsed reading or ‘off book.’ The course will be taught by Nadia Creamer, who has a long career as a performer and a teacher of performing arts. Creamer was co-artistic director of Impulse Theatre and Dance for 28 years in New York, where she received more than 60 grants for her work. She was also a faculty member at New York University, Russell Sage, College of St. Rose, and Columbia-Greene Community College. The cost of this course is $80. Registration will be accepted until the first night of class. For more information and to register, contact Brandon Fredette at (413) 572-8033 or [email protected].

Mini-Medical School
March 19 to May 7: Baystate Medical Center’s Mini-Medical School, which begins its spring session on March 19, will give area residents a reason to come out of hibernation from the long, cold, snowy winter and join others interested in the expanding field of medicine. Mini-Medical School program is an eight-week health education series featuring a different aspect of medicine each week. Classes this spring will include sessions on various medical topics, such as surgery, emergency medicine, anesthesiology, pathology, and several others. Many of the ‘students,’ who often range in age from 20 to 70, participate due to a general interest in medicine and later find that many of the things they learned over the semester are relevant to their own lives. The goal of the program, offered in the hospital’s Chestnut Conference Center, is to help members of the public make more informed decisions about their healthcare while receiving insight on what it is like to be a medical student — minus the tests, interviews, and admission formalities. Each course is taught by medical-center faculty who explain the science of medicine without resorting to complex terms. Baystate Medical Center is the Western Campus of Tufts University School of Medicine and is the region’s only teaching hospital. All classes are held Thursday nights starting at 6 p.m. and run until 8 or 9 p.m., depending on the night’s topic. No basic science knowledge is needed to participate. Each participant is required to attend a minimum of six out of eight classes in order to receive a certificate of completion. Tuition is $95 per person and $80 for Senior Class and Spirit of Women members. Register for the spring semester of Mini-Medical School by calling (800) 377-4325. For more information, visit www.baystatehealth.org/minimed.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The class of 2015 — Katelynn’s Ride, MassMutual Financial Services, Judy Matt, Valley Venture Mentors, and the new ownership group of the Student Prince and the Fort — was profiled in the Feb. 9 issue. Tickets cost $60 per person, and reserved tables of 10 are available. To order tickets, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

Stronger Businesses Program
March 20: The Stronger Businesses Program will take place at the Business Growth Center at Springfield Technology Park. Designed for business owners who are focused on growth and want to take a fresh look at their markets, revenues, and operations, this workshop meets for five mornings over a seven-week period and includes two private technical-assistance sessions, one price for up to three people per company, and peer-mentoring sessions over breakfast. “It is specifically designed not to be Business 101,” said Karen Utgoff, co-founder and facilitator of the program. “The series emphasizes active learning and immediate application of specific tools and techniques to gain fresh perspective and identify opportunities and challenges, with the goal of turning those insights into actionable steps.” Added Laurie Breitner, the program’s other co-founder and facilitator, “we were gratified to learn from participants in earlier sessions that they found the program very useful, and all reported that they had improved their businesses and made well-defined plans for future growth.” The Business Growth Center has again received a grant from the Massachusetts Growth Capital Corp. to support the Stronger Businesses Program. Business owners from underserved communities are particularly encouraged to attend. Additional information about this and other programs is available at www.businessgrowthcenter.org/seminars-workshops or by contacting Mary Marquez, assistant program manager, at [email protected] or (413) 355-5680.

High-speed Rail Discussion
March 24: The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) will present a Pastries, Politics, and Policy program called “Riding the Rails: High-speed Rail Service from Springfield to Boston,” from 8 to 9 a.m. at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. State Sen. Eric Lesser and Tim Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC), will discuss Lesser’s recently filed feasibility bill requiring the Mass. Department of Transportation to conduct a study on the viability of high-speed rail access between Springfield and Boston. They will also address the need for this service and how it can positively impact Western Mass. economies. While running for Senate, high-speed rail was the top priority in Lesser’s campaign platform, and, since being elected, has worked extensively on this issue. Brennan is an advocate for the high-speed east-west rail and, with the PVPC, is involved heavily in preparation for its possible implementation. The program cost is $15 for chamber members, $25 for general admission. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected] or (413) 755-1313.

Not Just Business as Usual
April 30: The Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) Foundation’s Not Just Business as Usual (NJBAU) event is one of the premiere networking events for business leaders in Western Mass. This annual celebration, in its sixth year, is a celebration of innovative thinking which gives participants the opportunity to learn from business experts while raising significant funding for the STCC WORKS scholarship program. The event will be held at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. A cocktail and networking reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with dinner and the keynote speaker, Google Engineering Director Steve Vinter, to follow from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Vinter has overseen the growth of Google’s Cambridge site from 15 software engineers in 2007 to more than 900 today. He is responsible for developing digital-publishing products such as Google eBooks, Google Play Newsstand, and Play for Education, and has over 20 years of industry experience working in the Boston area, focusing on building products and services for hundreds of millions of users of mobile and cloud computing. He also is the co-founder of MassCAN, a partnership of organizations which collaborate to inspire and educate students in Massachusetts to learn computing and prepare them to lead and innovate the future economy, which will be driven by computer technology. This year, NJBAU will feature interactive workstations featuring the STCC Mobile SIM and Engineering program. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are now available. Tickets are $100 each, and sponsorships begin at $1,500. For additional information or to become a sponsor, contact Christina Tuohey, STCC director of Annual Giving and Alumni Relations, at (413) 755-4475 or [email protected]. To purchase tickets online, visit www.stcc.edu/njbau.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. The class of 2015 will be revealed and profiled in the April 20 issue.

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ACCGS Outlook 2015
Feb. 27: Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker will give his first major address to the Greater Springfield business community at the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s (ACCGS) Outlook 2015 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. Outlook is the area’s largest legislative event, attracting more than 700 guests and presenting expert speakers on local, state, and federal issues. Area elected officials will also be in attendance to participate in this discussion of front-burner issues. The event is presented by Health New England and sponsored by the Eastern States Exposition, MassMutual Financial Group, and United Personnel. Program/reception sponsors include the Sisters of Providence Health System, Comcast, Western Massachusetts Electric Co., and the Republican, with support from Chicopee Savings Bank and BusinessWest. Baker was inaugurated on Jan. 8 as the 72nd governor of the state. Over the course of his career, he has been a highly successful leader of complex organizations in business and in government. As a cabinet secretary under Gov. William Weld and Gov. Paul Cellucci, Baker helped lead efforts to reform and modernize state government. During his time as CEO of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Baker turned a company on the brink of bankruptcy into the nation’s highest-ranked healthcare provider for six straight years. As a member of the Weld and Cellucci administrations in the 1990s, Baker helped turn a billion-dollar deficit into a surplus, create a half-million jobs, and enact an ambitious education-reform agenda. First asked to serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services in 1992, Baker led efforts to make Massachusetts’ social-service system more humane, cost-effective, and responsive to the needs of the Commonwealth’s residents. In 1994, Baker was appointed Secretary of Administration and Finance, overseeing a number of cost-saving reforms, modernizing state government, and making it more efficient. Baker will be joined at the Outlook program by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who will remark on events at the federal level, including his thoughts on the 114th Congress and the topics that the new Congress may review. “As a senior member of the powerful House Committee on Ways and Means and ranking member of its Select Revenue Measures subcommittee, Congressman Neal serves in a critically important capacity in Washington for our area, our state, and the entire country,” said ACCGS President Jeffrey Ciuffreda. Tickets are $50 for ACCGS members and $70 for general admission. Reserved tables of 10 are available. Reservations must be made by Feb. 20, and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Member Services Director Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]. No walk-ins will be accepted, and no cancellations will be accepted once the reservation deadline has passed.

PAWSCARS Fund-raiser
Feb. 28: Dakin Humane Society will present a fund-raising event at the MassMutual Center in Springfield that will affectionately spoof Hollywood, the Oscars, and red-carpet fashion. Dubbed “The PAWSCARS & Red Carpet Fashion Parade,” the show will be emceed by Ashley Kohl and Seth Stutman, hosts of Mass Appeal on WWLP-22News. Beginning with a VIP Reception at 6 p.m. and a plated dinner at 7 p.m., the evening will also include a red-carpet fashion parade featuring local people of prominence, accompanied by rescue dogs (among them former Dakin dogs, now adopted). Short videos of animals recreating iconic moments in cinematic history, created by members of the public, will also be screened during the evening. “We’re looking forward to presenting a one-of-a-kind event with the PAWSCARS,” said Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris. “We’re blending fashion, fun, and film with a healthy dose of humor for an unforgettable night. Plus, as our major fund-raising event of the year, it will be a terrific opportunity for our supporters to come together and enjoy themselves while providing much-needed aid for the many animals in our care.” With a targeted audience of 500, The PAWSCARS is Dakin’s most ambitious fund-raising event in its 45-year history. Tickets for the event are available at www.dakinhumane.org for $125 per person (dinner and show) or $50 (show only). Visit www.dakinhumane.org for more information about the event.

Lecture Series
March 12: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News are pleased to announce a new lecture series presented by Comcast Business. This series of lectures, panel discussions, and presentations will address timely and important business information, and is an ideal opportunity to meet industry leaders and network with area business professionals. The first event in the series, called “Technology Has the Power to Change Healthcare,” will be hosted by La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Panelists include Neil Kudler, vice president and chief medical information officer for Baystate Health; Michael Feld, CEO of VertitechIT and acting chief technology officer of Baystate Health and Lancaster General Hospital; and Delcie Bean IV, CEO, of Paragus Strategic IT. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m., followed by breakfast and networking at 7:30 a.m. and the panel discussion from 8 to 9 a.m. Admission is free, provided by Comcast Business, but RSVP is required by Thursday, March 5. Sign up online at BusinessWest.com/lecture-series, or call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, for more information.

‘Acting Skills for Real Life’
March 19 to April 16: The Division of Graduate and Continuing Education at Westfield State University will offer a class called “Acting Skills for Real Life: How to Connect and Communicate” on Thursday nights, March 19 through April 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. Students will learn about basic acting skills and theories, and how they can be applied to everyday situations such as job interviews and social settings, in addition to performances and public speaking. Course content includes vocal, movement, and imagination warmups and theatre games; improvisations around a specific set of circumstances, including real-life situations and role reversal; developing stage presence; and, if the class chooses, rehearsal and class performance of a brief scene or monologue as a rehearsed reading or ‘off book.’ The course will be taught by Nadia Creamer, who has a long career as a performer and a teacher of performing arts. Creamer was co-artistic director of Impulse Theatre and Dance for 28 years in New York, where she received more than 60 grants for her work. She was also a faculty member at New York University, Russell Sage, College of St. Rose, and Columbia-Greene Community College. The cost of this course is $80. Registration will be accepted until the first night of class. For more information and to register, contact Brandon Fredette at (413) 572-8033 or [email protected].

Mini-Medical School
March 19 to May 7: Baystate Medical Center’s Mini-Medical School, which begins its spring session on March 19, will give area residents a reason to come out of hibernation from the long, cold, snowy winter and join others interested in the expanding field of medicine. Mini-Medical School program is an eight-week health education series featuring a different aspect of medicine each week. Classes this spring will include sessions on various medical topics, such as surgery, emergency medicine, anesthesiology, pathology, and several others. Many of the ‘students,’ who often range in age from 20 to 70, participate due to a general interest in medicine and later find that many of the things they learned over the semester are relevant to their own lives. The goal of the program, offered in the hospital’s Chestnut Conference Center, is to help members of the public make more informed decisions about their healthcare while receiving insight on what it is like to be a medical student — minus the tests, interviews, and admission formalities. Each course is taught by medical-center faculty who explain the science of medicine without resorting to complex terms. Baystate Medical Center is the Western Campus of Tufts University School of Medicine and is the region’s only teaching hospital. All classes are held Thursday nights starting at 6 p.m. and run until 8 or 9 p.m., depending on the night’s topic. No basic science knowledge is needed to participate. Each participant is required to attend a minimum of six out of eight classes in order to receive a certificate of completion. Among the topics and speakers slated for the spring semester are:
• March 19: “Hey, I Finally Got into Medical School!” with Dr. Michael Rosenblum, director, Internal Medicine Residency Program (includes a general tour of the medical center).
• March 26: “Surgery,” with Dr. Richard Wait, chair, Department of Surgery (includes a tour of the Baystate Simulation Center and the Goldberg Surgical Skills Lab).
• April 2: “Cardiac Surgery,” with Dr. John Rousou, chief, Cardiac Surgery.
• April 9: “Pathology,” with Dr. Richard Friedberg, chair, Department of Pathology (includes a tour of the lab).
• April 16: “Anesthesiology,” with Dr. Michael Bailin, chair, Department of Anesthesiology.
• April 23: “Psychiatry,” with Dr. Benjamin Liptzin, chair, Department of Psychiatry.
• April 30: “Stroke/Rehabilitation,” with Dr. Edward Feldmann, vice president and medical director, Neurosciences & Rehabilitation.
• May 7: “Emergency Medicine,” with Dr. Joseph Schmidt, vice chair and chief, Emergency Medicine (includes a graduation ceremony).
Tuition is $95 per person and $80 for Senior Class and Spirit of Women members. Register for the spring semester of Mini-Medical School by calling (800) 377-4325. For more information, visit www.baystatehealth.org/minimed.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The class of 2015 — Katelynn’s Ride, MassMutual Financial Services, Judy Matt, Valley Venture Mentors, and the new ownership group of the Student Prince and the Fort — was profiled in the Feb. 9 issue. Tickets cost $60 per person, and reserved tables of 10 are available. To order tickets, call (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. The class of 2015 will be revealed and profiled in the April 20 issue.

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Chicopee Chamber CEO Luncheon
Feb. 11: The Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce will present its first CEO luncheon of 2015 from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Collegian Court Restaurant, 16 Park St., Chicopee. The speaker will be Elizabeth Barajas-Román, CEO of the Women’s Fund of Western Mass. Barajas-Román has been a leader in progressive movements, including advocating at the national level for the health and rights of immigrant women and their families. Most recently, she was a manager at the Pew Charitable Trusts, where she directed a portfolio of partners that campaigned for state and federal policy change to improve government performance on issues that impact children’s health. Barajas-Román brings a background in impactful philanthropy, data-driven strategy design, fund-raising through philanthropic partnerships, creating coalitions, and mobilizing partners. Previously, she served as the director of Policy at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health and directed the organization’s Washington, D.C. office. Barajas-Román was frequently invited to be a voice in national-policy discussions at the White House and on Capitol Hill. She is a graduate of Oberlin College and received her master’s degree in international policy from Harvard University. To register for the luncheon, visit ‘Upcoming Events’ on the chamber’s website, www.chicopeechamber.org. The cost is $25 for chamber members and $30 for non-members.

‘Pink in the Rink’
Feb. 21: Noble Hospital is the major sponsor the Springfield Falcons’ “Pink in the Rink” event against the Portland Pirates. This annual event helps to raise funds for and awareness of breast cancer. Falcons players wear special pink jerseys that will be autographed and auctioned off after the event. Visit www.ebay.com/usr/springfieldfalcons to bid on the pink jerseys after the game. In addition to the hockey game, breast-cancer survivors will be honored, there will be giveaways and raffles, and Noble Hospital will provide an information booth. Members of a support group, the Pink WAY, will also attend. Noble Hospital’s Center for Comprehensive Breast Health, under the direction of Dr. Steven Schonholz, provides a wide range of options and services in a single location. Pink bracelets will be available for donations at the Noble table; funds raised will go towards Noble’s breast-cancer awareness programs and to help local patients going through treatments. Area residents can support Noble Hospital by purchasing tickets to the game at give.noblehospital.org/pinkintherink. For more information, contact the hospital’s Community Development Office at [email protected] or (413) 568-2811, ext. 5520.

West of the River Chamber Legislative Breakfast
Feb. 25: The West of the River Chamber of Commerce announced that it will stage its Legislative Breakfast, an event that brings members and non-members together for a morning of breakfast and legislative updates, from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Storrowton Tavern Carriage House in West Springfield. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local business people over breakfast, and later will enjoy an informational session presented by a panel of legislators including state Sens. Donald Humason and James Welch, state Rep. Michael Finn, Agawam Mayor Mayor Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan. Political consultant Anthony Cignoli will emcee the event and offer economic updates. Sponsors for the event are Health New England, OMG, the Insurance Center of New England, Ormsby Insurance, and Spherion. The cost is $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880.

Greater Westfield Chamber Legislative Luncheon
Feb. 27: The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, which serves Blandford, Chester, Granville, Huntington, Montgomery, Russell, Southwick, Tolland, Westfield, and Woronoco, will present its second annual Legislative Luncheon at Tekoa Country Club. Invited state legislators include Sens. Benjamin Downing and Donald Humason and Reps. Nicholas Boldyga, Peter Kocot, Stephen Kulig, William Pignatelli, and John Velis. A host of sponsorship opportunities are still available. Tickets for the event are $25 for chamber members and $35 (paid in advance) for non-members. For more information on tickets and sponsorships, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PAWSCARS Fund-raiser
Feb. 28: Dakin Humane Society will present a fund-raising event at the MassMutual Center in Springfield that will affectionately spoof Hollywood, the Oscars, and red-carpet fashion. Dubbed “The PAWSCARS & Red Carpet Fashion Parade,” the show will be emceed by Ashley Kohl and Seth Stutman, hosts of Mass Appeal on WWLP-22News. Beginning with a VIP Reception at 6 p.m. and a plated dinner at 7 p.m., the evening will also include a red-carpet fashion parade featuring local people of prominence, accompanied by rescue dogs (among them former Dakin dogs, now adopted). Short videos of animals recreating iconic moments in cinematic history, created by members of the public, will also be screened during the evening. “We’re looking forward to presenting a one-of-a-kind event with the PAWSCARS,” said Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris. “We’re blending fashion, fun, and film with a healthy dose of humor for an unforgettable night. Plus, as our major fund-raising event of the year, it will be a terrific opportunity for our supporters to come together and enjoy themselves while providing much-needed aid for the many animals in our care.” With a targeted audience of 500, The PAWSCARS is Dakin’s most ambitious fund-raising event in its 45-year history. Tickets for the event are available at www.dakinhumane.org for $125 per person (dinner and show) or $50 (show only). Corporate sponsors for the PAWSCARS include Baystate Health, Piepul’s Camera Center, Clinical & Support Options, United Personnel, C.A.R. Data Management and Program Evaluation Services, Hampden Bank, and Robinson Donovan. The Republican, Reminder Publications, WMAS, the Daily Hampshire Gazette, and the Recorder are among the media sponsors. Visit www.dakinhumane.org for more information about the event.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are making a difference in this region. The class of 2015 is profiled in this issue. Tickets cost $60 per person, and tables of 10 are available. Go HERE to order, or call (413) 781-8600, ext. 10, or e-mail [email protected].

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. The class of 2015 will be revealed and profiled in the April 20 issue.

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ACCGS Lunch ‘n’ Learn
Jan. 28: The November election has passed, and the voters have spoken, approving ballot question #4 approving of mandated sick leave, making Massachusetts only the third state in the nation to guarantee paid sick days for workers. Timothy Murphy, Esq., partner with Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. and leading expert on the subject for the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) Legislative Steering Committee, will explore the impact of the law at the ACCGS Lunch ‘n’ Learn from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Dodge Room of the Flynn Campus Union at Springfield College, 263 Alden St., Springfield. Murphy will discuss what the law entails for both large and small businesses, how the law will impact companies already providing sick leave or those that provide personal time off incorporating sick leave, which workers are eligible and which are not, what it means for a company and its workforce, and the subtle nuances of the law. Murphy joined Skoler, Abbott & Presser in 2001 after serving as general counsel to an area labor union. He represents and advises both union and non-union employers in a wide range of labor and employment matters. He regularly represents employers in matters before state and administrative agencies and courts. His work includes assisting employers to remain union-free, defending unfair labor practices, negotiating collective-bargaining agreements, and handling grievance arbitrations. Murphy is on the executive committee of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce and, is the former chair of the ACCGS Legislative Steering Committee, and is the go-to resource for the ACCGS on the issue of mandated sick leave. Reservations for the January Lunch ‘n’ Learn are $25 for members, $35 for general admission.  Registration includes lunch and one-on-one discussions with Murphy. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by e-mailing Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].
 
ACCGS Breakfast
Feb. 4: Shriners Hospitals for Children will be among the honorees at the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s (ACCGS) Business@Breakfast on Wednesday, Feb. 4 from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Shriners Hospital for Children will be honored for its 90th anniversary. The hospital provides medical care to children with orthopaedic, neuromusculoskeletal, cleft-lip, and palate disorders and diseases. As well, GZA GeoEnvironmental Inc., a professional-services consulting firm focused on geotechnical, environmental, water, ecological, and construction-management services, will be saluted for its 50th anniversary, and FIT Solutions, a leader in IT staffing, will be honored for its 10th anniversary. The breakfast will feature Dr. Steve Sobel, humorist and motivational speaker. Sobel will present “You’re a Piece of Work! Celebrate Joy, Passion, and Influence.” Sobels’s presentation will use humor to illuminate life’s possibilities and provide attendees with the tools needed to help them bring their ‘A’ game to their companies and customers. Sobel, a speaker, educator, success coach, and trainer throughout the U.S. and Canada, blends humor with targeted and inspirational messages to companies, businesses, athletic teams, and professional groups. He is a former award-winning school principal and continues to teach part-time at the college level, including many courses on entrepreneurship and visionary leadership. Reservations are $20 in advance for ACCGS members in advance ($25 at the door) and $30 for general admission. Reservations can be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

Chicopee Chamber CEO Luncheon
Feb. 11: The Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce will present its first CEO luncheon of 2015 from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Collegian Court Restaurant, 16 Park St., Chicopee. The speaker will be Elizabeth Barajas-Román, CEO of the Women’s Fund of Western Mass. Barajas-Román has been a leader in progressive movements, including advocating at the national level for the health and rights of immigrant women and their families. Most recently, she was a manager at the Pew Charitable Trusts, where she directed a portfolio of partners that campaigned for state and federal policy change to improve government performance on issues that impact children’s health. Barajas-Román brings a background in impactful philanthropy, data-driven strategy design, fund-raising through philanthropic partnerships, creating coalitions, and mobilizing partners. Previously, she served as the director of Policy at the National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health and directed the organization’s Washington, D.C. office. Barajas-Román was frequently invited to be a voice in national-policy discussions at the White House and on Capitol Hill. She is a graduate of Oberlin College and received her master’s degree in international policy from Harvard University. To register for the luncheon, visit ‘Upcoming Events’ on the chamber’s website, www.chicopeechamber.org. The cost is $25 for chamber members and $30 for non-members.

‘Pink in the Rink’
Feb. 21: Noble Hospital is the major sponsor the Springfield Falcons’ “Pink in the Rink” event against the Portland Pirates. This annual event helps to raise funds for and awareness of breast cancer. Falcons players wear special pink jerseys that will be autographed and auctioned off after the event. Visit www.ebay.com/usr/springfieldfalcons to bid on the pink jerseys after the game. In addition to the hockey game, breast-cancer survivors will be honored, there will be giveaways and raffles, and Noble Hospital will provide an information booth. Members of a support group, the Pink WAY, will also attend. Noble Hospital’s Center for Comprehensive Breast Health, under the direction of Dr. Steven Schonholz, provides a wide range of options and services in a single location. Pink bracelets will be available for donations at the Noble table; funds raised will go towards Noble’s breast-cancer awareness programs and to help local patients going through treatments. Area residents can support Noble Hospital by purchasing tickets to the game at give.noblehospital.org/pinkintherink. For more information, contact the hospital’s Community Development Office at [email protected] or (413) 568-2811, ext. 5520.

West of the River Chamber Legislative Breakfast
Feb. 25: The West of the River Chamber of Commerce announced that it will stage its Legislative Breakfast, an event that brings members and non-members together for a morning of breakfast and legislative updates, from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Storrowton Tavern Carriage House in West Springfield. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with local business people over breakfast, and later will enjoy an informational session presented by a panel of legislators including state Sens. Donald Humason and James Welch, state Rep. Michael Finn, Agawam Mayor Mayor Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan. Political consultant Anthony Cignoli will emcee the event and offer economic updates. Sponsors for the event are Health New England, OMG, the Insurance Center of New England, Ormsby Insurance, and Spherion. The cost is $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880.

PAWSCARS Fund-raiser
Feb. 28: Dakin Humane Society will present a fund-raising event at the MassMutual Center in Springfield that will affectionately spoof Hollywood, the Oscars, and red-carpet fashion. Dubbed “The PAWSCARS & Red Carpet Fashion Parade,” the show will be emceed by Ashley Kohl and Seth Stutman, hosts of Mass Appeal on WWLP-22News. Beginning with a VIP Reception at 6 p.m. and a plated dinner at 7 p.m., the evening will also include a red-carpet fashion parade featuring local people of prominence, accompanied by rescue dogs (among them former Dakin dogs, now adopted). Short videos of animals recreating iconic moments in cinematic history, created by members of the public, will also be screened during the evening. “We’re looking forward to presenting a one-of-a-kind event with the PAWSCARS,” said Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris. “We’re blending fashion, fun, and film with a healthy dose of humor for an unforgettable night. Plus, as our major fund-raising event of the year, it will be a terrific opportunity for our supporters to come together and enjoy themselves while providing much-needed aid for the many animals in our care.” With a targeted audience of 500, The PAWSCARS is Dakin’s most ambitious fund-raising event in its 45-year history. Tickets for the event are available at www.dakinhumane.org for $125 per person (dinner and show) or $50 (show only). Corporate sponsors for the PAWSCARS include Baystate Health, Piepul’s Camera Center, Clinical & Support Options, United Personnel, C.A.R. Data Management and Program Evaluation Services, Hampden Bank, and Robinson Donovan. Visit www.dakinhumane.org for more information about the event.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The class of 2015 will be unveiled and profiled in the upcoming Feb. 9 issue. Tickets on sale for $60 each. Table of 10 available. Call (413) 781-8600.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. Nominations are now open for the class of 2015, and are due by the end of the day (5 p.m.) on Feb. 6. The nomination form can be found at HERE.

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Speed Networking Event
Jan. 14: Back by popular demand, the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) will hold an afternoon of speed networking on at the Sheraton Springfield, followed by an evening of informal networking at its After 5. The combination of events will provide attendees the opportunity to meet new contacts in a formal manner, then continue conversations in an informal and casual setting. The core concept to speed networking is the ‘elevator speech,’ a short summary of an individual, business, organization, product, or service that a person could deliver in the time span of a short elevator ride. Attendees will be divided into groups A and B. Members of each group will be seated across from each other. Each member of Group A will have 60 seconds to give his or her elevator speech to a member of Group B. A bell will ring, signaling the 60-second time is up, and each member of Group B will then get a chance to speak. The facilitator will signal when the 60 seconds are up again, and members of Group A will then move one seat to the right and begin the process again with a new partner. The round-robin format of networking will continue until the event is over, at which time attendees can then move to the casual atmosphere of the MVP Pub for the ACCGS “Score a Touchdown” After 5, sponsored by Wolf & Co. and DevelopSpringfield with support from the Springfield Falcons, United Way of Pioneer Valley, and BusinessWest. The event begins at 3:30 p.m. with registration and instructions. To accommodate the event, no admittance will be allowed after 3:55 p.m. The event ends at 5 p.m., and the After 5 runs from 5 to 7 p.m. Reservations are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and only members of the ACCGS, Springfield Chamber of Commerce, or East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce are eligible to participate. Reservations include a complimentary ticket to the After 5. Reservations for the After 5 only are $5 for members, $10 for general admission. The After 5 is open to the general public. Reservations may be made online in advance at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]. 
 
Employment-law Seminar
Jan. 27: Now that the new year here, it’s an ideal time to review the past year’s changes in labor and employment law. Royal LLP will host a seminar from 8 to 9 a.m. to review some of the most interesting and significant labor- and employment-law changes from 2014 and provide timely and practical advice on how these changes will affect businesses in years to come. Attorney Sarah Torres will conduct the roundtable-style seminar, where she will provide practical pointers to assist organizations in ensuring they are up-to-date and in compliance with these new laws. She will cover topics such as sick leave, domestic-violence leave, minimum-wage increases, and more. The cost for the seminar is $30 per person, and it will take place at Royal LLP, 270 Pleasant St., Northampton. Advance registration is required, and seating will be limited. Contact Ann-Marie Marcil at [email protected] to register or if you have any questions about the seminar. Checks should be made payable to Royal LLP and mailed to 270 Pleasant St., Northampton, MA 01060.

WNEU Mini-Law School
Feb. 10 to March 10: Western New England University School of Law will open its doors to the community with a five-week program focused on demystifying the law. Starting on Feb. 10, the Mini-Law School will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blake Law Center, Room D, 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield. “Individuals interested in becoming better-informed and engaging in stimulating dialogue will find this program rewarding,” said Pat Newcombe, associate dean for Library and Information Resources. “No legal knowledge is necessary, just a curious mind.” Mini-Law School offers non-lawyers an understanding of legal topics that impact their everyday lives. Each class is taught by School of Law faculty and moderated by the Hon. Kenneth Neiman, magistrate judge, U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts. Blending theory and practice, the classes will focus on family law, health law, constitutional law, and environmental law. The sessions include:
• Feb. 10: “Welcome to Mini-Law School: An Inside View of Law School and the Courts,” presented by Neiman and School of Law Dean Eric Gouvin;
• Feb. 17: “Family Law: What Defines a Family?” presented by 
Professor of Law Jennifer Levi and Neiman;
• Feb. 24: “Health Law: End-of-Life Choices,” presented by 
Professor of Law Barbara Noah and Neiman;
• March 3: “Constitutional Law: Real Law or Just Another Kind of Politics?” presented by Professor of Law Bruce Miller and Neiman; and
• March 10: “Environmental Law: Legal Solutions to Pollution Challenges,” presented by 
Professor of Law Julie Steiner and Neiman.
“After five weeks, you won’t be a lawyer,” said Western New England University Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Beth Cohen, “but you will be able to better understand laws that have an effect on your life, and, unlike traditional law school, there are no tests or homework.” Tuition is $35 for all five sessions, or $10 for each individual session. The program is free of charge for any high-school, college, or graduate student with a valid student ID. To register by phone or for more information, call Newcombe at (413) 782-1616. Registration will continue through Jan. 19. Learn more at www.law.wne.edu/minilaw.

PAWSCARS Fund-raiser
Feb. 28: Dakin Humane Society will present a fund-raising event on at the MassMutual Center in Springfield that will affectionately spoof Hollywood, the Oscars, and red-carpet fashion. Dubbed “The PAWSCARS & Red Carpet Fashion Parade,” the show will be emceed by Ashley Kohl and Seth Stutman, hosts of Mass Appeal on WWLP-22News. Beginning with a VIP Reception at 6 p.m. and a plated dinner at 7 p.m., the evening will also include a red-carpet fashion parade featuring local people of prominence, accompanied by rescue dogs (among them former Dakin dogs, now adopted). Short videos of animals recreating iconic moments in cinematic history, created by members of the public, will also be screened during the evening. “We’re looking forward to presenting a one-of-a-kind event with the PAWSCARS,” said Dakin Executive Director Leslie Harris. “We’re blending fashion, fun, and film with a healthy dose of humor for an unforgettable night. Plus, as our major fund-raising event of the year, it will be a terrific opportunity for our supporters to come together and enjoy themselves while providing much-needed aid for the many animals in our care.” With a targeted audience of 500, The PAWSCARS is Dakin’s most ambitious fund-raising event in its 45-year history. Tickets for the event are available at www.dakinhumane.org for $125 per person (dinner and show) or $50 (show only). Dakin is currently seeking video submissions from the public for viewing at the event, and the deadline is Saturday, Jan. 31. All videos will be reviewed, and a committee will select nine finalist videos to be screened at the PAWSCARS. Each of the nine people submitting a video will be awarded a free ticket to the PAWSCARS event (including dinner and entertainment). Corporate sponsors for the PAWSCARS include Baystate Health, Piepul’s Camera Center, Clinical & Support Options, United Personnel, C.A.R. Data Management and Program Evaluation Services, Hampden Bank, and Robinson Donovan. The Republican, Reminder Publications, WMAS, the Daily Hampshire Gazette, and the Recorder are among the media sponsors for the event. Visit www.dakinhumane.org for complete contest and video-submission information, as well as additional information about the event. Dakin Humane Society provides shelter, education, advocacy, and assistance for animals and people in need from its two locations in Springfield and Leverett. The organization shelters nearly 6,000 animals every year and provides low-cost spay/neuter surgery and vaccinations to 12,000 more. Dakin is a local, private, nonprofit organization that relies solely on contributions from individuals and businesses that care about animals to bring its services to the community.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. This year’s class will be profiled in the Feb. 9 issue.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. Nominations are now open for the class of 2015, and are due by the end of the day (5 p.m.) on Feb. 6. The nomination form can be found HERE.

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Business@Breakfast
Jan. 7: The entrepreneurial spirit of the region will take center stage at the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s Business@Breakfast on Jan. 7, from 7:15 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Ludlow Country Club, One Tony Lema Dr., Ludlow. Paul Silva, executive director of Valley Venture Mentors (VVM), will discuss “Putting the PIONEER Back in Pioneer Valley.” He will be joined by Natasha Clark, founder of LionessMagazine.com, a Western Mass.-based, all-digital magazine for the female entrepreneur. VVM is a nonprofit based in Springfield that provides key support to the entrepreneurial ecosystem through its mentorship and accelerator programs. Silva is the manager of the River Valley Investors angel-investor network and co-founder of the Valley Venture Mentors entrepreneurship-mentoring program and All in Play, a company creating software that helps the blind socialize with their fully sighted friends and families as equals. He is the former president of the co-working space and incubator Click Workspace. The breakfast will also honor Dr. Mark Keroack on his new role as CEO of Baystate Health, and recognize Andrew Associates on its 30th anniversary in business. Reservations are $20 for ACCGS members in advance ($25 for members at the door) and $30 for general admission. Reservations are suggested and can be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WNEU Mini-Law School
Feb. 10 to March 10: Western New England University School of Law will open its doors to the community with a five-week program focused on demystifying the law. Starting on Feb. 10, the Mini-Law School will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blake Law Center, Room D, 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield. “Individuals interested in becoming better-informed and engaging in stimulating dialogue will find this program rewarding,” said Pat Newcombe, associate dean for Library and Information Resources. “No legal knowledge is necessary, just a curious mind.” Mini-Law School offers non-lawyers an understanding of legal topics that impact their everyday lives. Each class is taught by School of Law faculty and moderated by the Hon. Kenneth Neiman, magistrate judge, U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts. Blending theory and practice, the classes will focus on family law, health law, constitutional law, and environmental law. The sessions include:
• Feb. 10: “Welcome to Mini-Law School: An Inside View of Law School and the Courts,” presented by Neiman and School of Law Dean Eric Gouvin;
• Feb. 17: “Family Law: What Defines a Family?” presented by 
Professor of Law Jennifer Levi and Neiman;
• Feb. 24: “Health Law: End-of-Life Choices,” presented by 
Professor of Law Barbara Noah and Neiman;
• March 3: “Constitutional Law: Real Law or Just Another Kind of Politics?” presented by Professor of Law Bruce Miller and Neiman; and
• March 10: “Environmental Law: Legal Solutions to Pollution Challenges,” presented by 
Professor of Law Julie Steiner and Neiman.
“After five weeks, you won’t be a lawyer,” said Western New England University Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Beth Cohen, “but you will be able to better understand laws that have an effect on your life, and, unlike traditional law school, there are no tests or homework.” Tuition is $35 for all five sessions, or $10 for each individual session. The program is free of charge for any high-school, college, or graduate student with a valid student ID. To register by phone or for more information, call Newcombe at (413) 782-1616. Registration will continue through Jan. 19. Learn more at www.law.wne.edu/minilaw.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The magazine’s editor and publishers are currently reviewing nominations, and this year’s class will be profiled in the Feb. 9 issue.

Origami-inspired Art Exhibit
Through April 26: “Origami Interpretations,” an exhibit of 25 vibrant paintings, sculptures, and prints by New York artist Gloria Garfinkel, will be on view at the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum through April 26. The works, produced in the late 20th century, feature bold color, energetic patterns, and abstract compositions inspired by Japanese designs and origami forms. The artist, whose work combines complex geometry and painterly invention, is particularly fascinated by the kimono, the traditional dress of Japan, and the obi, the wide sash that is worn as a belt with it. She appreciates the “beauty and tenacity” expressed through the garments and notes that Japanese women continually recycle and layer fabrics to create unique looks and patterns. Garfinkel is also inspired by the color-field artists of the mid-20th century who explored different optical effects by manipulating their canvases. Garfinkel carefully arranges her forms in very specific ways to create a uniquely approachable and participatory aesthetic experience. The exhibition features pieces from Garfinkel’s series “Gingko Kimono,” collaged etchings from the late 1980s; paintings inspired by the obi; etchings from the “Kiku” (chrysanthemum) series; Kado woodcut prints; Hanabi maquettes; and aluminum flip paintings.

40 Under Forty
June 18: The ninth annual 40 Under Forty award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event, which honors the region’s most accomplished and civic-minded professionals under age 40, will be published in upcoming issues. Nominations are now open for the class of 2015, and are due by the end of the day (5 p.m.) on Feb. 6. The nomination form can be found at HERE, in this issue, and in upcoming issues.

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Affiliated Chambers’ Business@Breakfast
Jan. 7: The entrepreneurial spirit of the region will take center stage at the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s Business@Breakfast on Jan. 7, from 7:15 a.m. to 9 a.m. at Ludlow Country Club, One Tony Lema Dr., Ludlow. Paul Silva, executive director of Valley Venture Mentors (VVM), will discuss “Putting the PIONEER Back in Pioneer Valley.” He will be joined by Natasha Clark, founder of LionessMagazine.com, a Western Mass.-based, all-digital magazine for the female entrepreneur. VVM is a nonprofit based in Springfield that provides key support to the entrepreneurial ecosystem through its mentorship and accelerator programs. Silva is the manager of the River Valley Investors angel-investor network and co-founder of the Valley Venture Mentors entrepreneurship-mentoring program and All in Play, a company creating software that helps the blind socialize with their fully sighted friends and families as equals. He is the former president of the co-working space and incubator Click Workspace. The breakfast will also honor Dr. Mark Keroack on his new role as CEO of Baystate Health, and recognize Andrew Associates on its 30th anniversary in business. Reservations are $20 for ACCGS members in advance ($25 for members at the door) and $30 for general admission. Reservations are suggested and can be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WNEU Mini-Law School
Feb. 10 to March 10: Western New England University School of Law will open its doors to the community with a five-week program focused on demystifying the law. Starting on Feb. 10, the Mini-Law School will be held on Tuesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Blake Law Center, Room D, 1215 Wilbraham Road, Springfield. “Individuals interested in becoming better-informed and engaging in stimulating dialogue will find this program rewarding,” said Pat Newcombe, associate dean for Library and Information Resources. “No legal knowledge is necessary, just a curious mind.” Mini-Law School offers non-lawyers an understanding of legal topics that impact their lives. Each class is taught by School of Law faculty and moderated by the Hon. Kenneth Neiman, magistrate judge, U.S. District Court, District of Massachusetts. Blending theory and practice, classes will focus on family law, health law, constitutional law, and environmental law. They include:
• Feb. 10: “Welcome to Mini-Law School: An Inside View of Law School and the Courts,” presented by Neiman and School of Law Dean Eric Gouvin;
• Feb. 17: “Family Law: What Defines a Family?” presented by 
Professor of Law Jennifer Levi and Neiman;
• Feb. 24: “Health Law: End-of-Life Choices,” presented by 
Professor of Law Barbara Noah and Neiman;
• March 3: “Constitutional Law: Real Law or Just Another Kind of Politics?” presented by Professor of Law Bruce Miller and Neiman; and
• March 10: “Environmental Law: Legal Solutions to Pollution Challenges,” presented by 
Professor of Law Julie Steiner and Neiman.
“After five weeks, you won’t be a lawyer,” said Western New England University Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Beth Cohen, “but you will be able to better understand laws that have an effect on your life, and, unlike traditional law school, there are no tests or homework.” Tuition is $35 for all five sessions, or $10 for each individual session. The program is free of charge for any high-school, college, or graduate student with a valid student ID. To register by phone or for more information, call Newcombe at (413) 782-1616. Registration will continue through Jan. 19. Learn more at www.law.wne.edu/minilaw.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The magazine’s editor and publishers are currently reviewing nominations, and this year’s class will be profiled in the Feb. 9 issue.

Origami-inspired Art Exhibit
Through April 26: “Origami Interpretations,” an exhibit of 25 vibrant paintings, sculptures, and prints by New York artist Gloria Garfinkel, will be on view at the George Walter Vincent Smith Art Museum through April 26. The works, produced in the late 20th century, feature bold color, energetic patterns, and abstract compositions inspired by Japanese designs and origami forms. The exhibit will also serve to complement the extensive collection of Japanese decorative art from the 18th and 19th centuries on view on the second floor of the museum, and masterpieces of Japanese arms and armor in the gallery at the south end of the building.

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Women’s Fund Leadership Workshop
Dec. 6: The Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts (WFWM) will offer a community workshop addressing strategic negotiation, leadership, and conflict. The workshop is based on the WFWM’s popular Leadership Institute for Political and Public Impact (LIPPI), a 10-month training program that equips women to become more involved as civic leaders in their communities; impact policy on the local, state, and national levels, serve on boards; and seek and hold on to elected positions. Running from 9:15 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Holyoke Community College, the workshop will address conflict from the starting point of understanding human behavior to the end goal of developing successful courses of action that will enhance leadership. This program will be led by Brenda and Debbie Oppermann. Brenda Oppermann is an advisor and senior program manager for several organizations, including the U.S. Agency for International Development, the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the U.S Army, the Multi-national Corps – Iraq, International Security and Assistance Force – Afghanistan, the U.S. Institute of Peace, and assorted NGOs. Debbie Oppermann is an administrator and consultant specializing in program development, implementation, and management in the nonprofit and government sectors. The workshop is open to the public. Tickets start at $40 for small nonprofit professionals and students, while standard tickets are $60. Donations are also accepted above the $60 ticket price to help ensure the Women’s Fund is able to provide community workshops at discounted rates for small nonprofits and young professionals. Register online at www.womensfund.net or by contacting Julie Holt, office manager, at (413) 529-0087, ext. 10.

SSO ‘Home for the Follidays’ Concert
Dec. 6: More than 100 choral voices, an audience sing-along, and a chorus line of tap-dancing Santas — all that and more is on the slate for the Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s annual “Home for the Follidays” concert at Symphony Hall. Guest conductor Harvey Felder will lead members of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra and renowned Jeans ‘n’ Classics vocalists Gavin Hope and Andrea Koziol in delivering a festive musical celebration with a hint of rock. The evening’s holiday performance will continue this year’s partnership with Jeans ‘n’ Classics, star performers in the arts and entertainment scene, who combine popular sounds with the power of a world-class symphony. The show will also feature the return of the SSO’s Tap Dancing Santas, under the direction of choreographer and dance instructor David Michael Bovat, plus special guest cantor Martin Levson from Sinai Temple in Springfield, as well as a visit from St. Nick himself. The evening will also feature the SSO’s 12th annual silent auction, a fund-raising event that benefits its educational and outreach programs. Auction items include spa packages, ski lift tickets, a getaway weekend, restaurant gift cards, and much more. Items will be available for browsing and bidding before the performance and during intermission, and winning bidders may claim their items immediately following the concert. The SSO will also continue its tradition of supporting Springfield’s Children’s Study Home with a toy drive. On concert night, audience members are encouraged to make the holidays a little happier for local families in need by bringing a donation of a new, unwrapped toy. Collection bins will be available on the lobby level at Symphony Hall. “Home for the Follidays” will begin at 7:30 p.m., with doors opening at 6 p.m. For group and individual tickets, call the Springfield Symphony Box Office at (413) 733-2291 or visit in person at 1350 Main St., Springfield. Tickets are also available online at tickets.springfieldsymphony.org.

Financial-education Event
Dec. 6: Monson Savings Bank will conduct a financial-education event for veterans, service members, and their families, in collaboration with Monson High School and the Veterans Task Force of the MassSaves Coalition. The event will be held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Monson High School at 55 Margaret St. in Monson. There will be workshops on budgeting, setting financial goals, dealing with debt, and repairing credit. Attendees may also speak one-on-one with financial coaches and get help pulling and reviewing credit reports. All of the speakers and coaches are approved by the Department of Defense. There will be a kids’ activities table, supervised by National Honor Society students, so that parents can bring their children and also take full advantage of the program. Refreshments will be served, and the event is free. Questions about the event can be directed to Carolyn Weeks, manager of MSB’s Monson branch, at (413) 9267-1215.

Difference Makers
March 19: The sixth annual Difference Makers award program, staged by BusinessWest, will be held at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. Details on the event will be published in upcoming issues of the magazine. Difference Makers is a program, launched in 2009, that recognizes groups and individuals that are, as the name suggests, making a difference in this region. The editors and publishers of BusinessWest will accept nominations for the class of 2015 through Dec. 15. The nomination form is available online at www.businesswest.com/difference-makers-nomination-form.

Agenda

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Agenda Departments

Speed-networking Event
Nov. 5: Back by popular demand, the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s (ACCGS) Business@Breakfast will feature a speed-networking concept at the Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern in West Springfield. The breakfast will take a wide departure from the salutes-and-speakers format of the traditional breakfasts and will provide attendees with a quick and entertaining opportunity to introduce themselves and pitch their company to the other attendees. The core concept to speed networking is the ‘elevator speech,’ a short summary of an individual, business, organization, product, or service — a summary that a person could deliver in the time span of a short elevator ride. Attendees will be divided into groups A and B. Members of each group will be seated across from each other. Each member of Group A will have 60 seconds to give his or her elevator speech to a member of Group B. A bell will ring, signaling the 60-second time is up, and each member of Group B will then get a chance to speak. The facilitator will signal when the 60 seconds are up again, and members of Group A will then move one seat to the right, and the process will begin again with a new partner. The round-robin format of networking will continue until the breakfast is over. The event will begin with networking and breakfast at 7:15 a.m. To accommodate the speed-networking portion, breakfast will not be served after 7:45 a.m., and no admittance will be allowed after 7:55 a.m. Reservations are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and only members of the ACCGS or the Springfield or East of the River Five Town chamber of commerce are eligible to participate. Reservations may be made online in advance at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].

One-year Birthday Party at Heartfelt Fine Gifts
Nov. 5: Heartfelt Fine Gifts, which carries the work of local artisans, is celebrating its one-year anniversary in Tower Square with a birthday party from noon to 6 p.m. The event will include a free gift for the first 200 people to stop by. Last November, Mischa Epstein and Jackie Griswold got together and decided to open a pop-up shop for the holiday season, intended to showcase their art, as well as the work of other artists. Soon after, Elaine Shepard joined the pair, and Heartfelt Fine Gifts became a full-fledged, year-round business. “It has been so wonderful to be able to share the talents of local artists with the rest of the community,” Griswold said. “The downtown Springfield community has been so supportive throughout our first year, and we are very excited to continue being a part of downtown.” Heartfelt Fine Gifts carries the work of 50 (and counting) local artisans, including jewelry, pottery, painted glassware, hand-dipped chocolates, bath luxuries, upcycled furniture, floral arrangements, and more. One area of expertise is corporate gift giving, and the store offers customizable options on most products.

GradNation Summit
Nov. 6: United Way of Pioneer Valley and Stay in School, a community initiative launched by United Way designed to increase student attendance in Springfield schools, will host the Springfield GradNation Community Summit 2014, a conference for youth, parents, and members of the community, from 3 to 7:30 p.m. in the Judd Gymnasia at Springfield College, 263 Alden St., Springfield. The summit’s focus is “middle school success = pathway to graduation.” Educators say better school attendance and engagement in middle school leads to higher high-school graduation rates. Summit leaders will share what they have learned from youth, parents, educators, and the community, with a call to action to become part of the solution to increase the graduation rate in Springfield. Youth and community panels will take part in the conference. The event will be preceded by a pre-summit luncheon for Springfield community and business leaders. Michael Smith, former director of the Social Innovation Fund for the Corp. for National & Community Service and senior director of Cabinet Affairs for the My Brother’s Keeper initiative, will be the keynote speaker. Smith is a Springfield native. The Stay in School campaign was launched in 2013 in partnership with the Springfield Public Schools to increase school attendance, which is a key ingredient to academic success and graduation from high school. Those interested in attending the summit should RSVP to Shyreshia Perry at [email protected] or (413) 737-2691, ext. 200. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required to attend the conference.