Adams Community Bank, Pittsfield Cooperative Bank Announce Merger

ADAMS, PITTSFIELD — Julie Fallon Hughes, CEO of Adams Community Bank, and Michael Daly, CEO of Pittsfield Cooperative Bank, announce that their boards of directors have unanimously approved a strategic merger estimated to be completed late fall 2026. This combination reflects a strategic partnership between two community banks coming together with a shared vision to better serve the Berkshires. The combined institution will operate as a mutual banking organization with approximately $1.5 billion in assets, nearly 200 employees, and 15 full-service branches serving communities throughout the county. The combined institution will be positioned as a centrally located, locally focused community bank dedicated to serving the businesses, individuals, and families of the region. A new name and brand are being developed to honor the values, history, and distinct contributions of both organizations. This merger of equals will bring together two boards of directors, creating a unified governance structure that represents both institutions. The merged bank will retain Adams Community Bank’s mutual holding company, with the current chairmen of each bank’s board of directors — Jeffrey Grandchamp of Adams Community Bank and John Martin of Pittsfield Cooperative Bank — serving as co-chairs. Hughes will remain CEO. Executive leadership of the new institution will include lifetime Berkshire residents Gregg Levante as president and Andre Charbonneau as COO, working in partnership to drive growth and long-term success while aligning talent from both organizations and maintaining strong regional insight. The merged bank will locate its headquarters and a full-service branch at 99 West St. in Pittsfield, a building recently purchased by Pittsfield Cooperative Bank. Upon completion, the combined institution will remain a locally focused community bank with decisions made in the Berkshires. The bank will continue to invest in local businesses and nonprofit organizations to support its customers and communities. All customer deposits will continue to be fully insured through the FDIC and the Depositors Insurance Fund. The merger is subject to customary state, federal, and governance regulatory approvals. Additional details, including timing, branding updates, and executive and senior leadership, will be shared as the process moves forward. Nutter McClellan & Fish LLP served as legal counsel for Adams Community Bank. Luse Gorman, P.C. served as legal counsel to Pittsfield Cooperative Bank. Piper Sandler provided strategic consulting for both institutions.

Hideaway Inns Launches Third Property in Lenox

LENOX — Hideaway Inns announced the opening of its third property, Hideaway Inn Lenox. This property also marks the brand’s first franchise agreement and the introduction of Hideaway Inns into franchise partnerships. Developed by Hideaway Inns and managed by Revival Hotels, the 24-room hotel is the third property under the Hideaway Inns brand, launching less than six months after the company’s first opening in Mount Sunapee, N.H. With several additional franchise opportunities already in the works, Hideaway Inns plans to partner with strong ownership groups to transform properties into thoughtfully designed, experience-driven destinations. The brand prides itself on delivering a hospitality experience that combines frictionless technology, design-forward guest rooms, and fun communal spaces in scenic regional destinations. Located in the historic downtown of Lenox and within walking distance to Tanglewood Music Center, the hotel is well-positioned to serve leisure travelers. The facility is powered by Revival Hotels’ proprietary Invisible Hospitality model, enabling seamless direct-to-door check-in. Each guest room is uniquely designed (no two are alike), and comes equipped with a Hideaway-branded Crosley record player, a rainfall showerhead, a white noise machine, and amenities from La Bottega. The hotel also offers access to the HI Innsider Guide, a mobile app that serves as a personal concierge, providing curated recommendations, local insights, and on-property information. The hotel offers a range of shared spaces suitable for guests of all ages. The living room includes a vinyl library, board games, and a fireplace in a relaxed, BYOB-friendly setting. The Hideout is a retreat for children, giving families a chance to relax. The Commons offers indoor recreation with ping pong, vintage game tables, and foosball. Guests also have access to a complimentary 24/7 specialty coffee bar, curated vending machines, and a co-working space called Work from Hideaway.

Beacon Bank Invests $2.6 Million in Local Nonprofits in 2025

PITTSFIELD — Beacon Bank and the bank’s foundation invested more than $2.6 million in its communities in 2025 through grants to more than 650 nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Vermont. “When we support our communities close to home, the impact is personal,” said James Morris IV, president of the bank’s Berkshire & Capital Region. “Our charitable giving reflects our belief that lasting change starts locally, where it can make the greatest difference.” Beacon Bank invests in the success and vibrancy of its local communities by supporting programs and organizations that focus on one of three areas: neighborhood revitalization and preservation, education, and critical services.

BFAIR, UCP Boards Discuss Possible Merger

PITTSFIELD, NORTH ADAMS — BFAIR and UCP of Western Massachusetts announced they are exploring the possibility of a future merger. The organizations emphasize that no final decisions have been made and that this process is in an exploratory phase. Discussions formally began in June 2025, with a shared goal of determining whether a combined organization could strengthen services, improve long-term sustainability, and enhance impact across the region. Over the past eight months, board members from both organizations have participated in a structured and collaborative process, supported by an external consultant, to guide planning and evaluation. As part of the process, both organizations conducted a comprehensive due diligence review of operations, governance, compliance, and risk. Financial records and assets were also closely examined to better understand opportunities and challenges. No significant concerns were identified. Following this work, both boards of directors approved and signed a non-binding resolution of intent to merge, reflecting a shared commitment to continue evaluating the opportunity. Further updates will be shared as the exploration continues.

TRE Olive Releases Custom UMass Bottle

EAST LONGMEADOW — UMass Amherst alumni and TRE Olive owners Joe and Michael Maruca announced the new release of a custom UMass 500-mL bottle of extra virgin olive oil. The UMass bottle features the award-winning TRE Olive Select, a well-balanced extra virgin olive oil that is slightly sharp and has a peppery finish. It’s made with 100% Carolea olives that are selected when the olives are perfect for making olive oil. The Maruca brothers are UMass Amherst alumni, graduates of the Isenberg School of Management, and members of the family behind TRE Olive, a business with deep roots in the Calabria region of Southern Italy. For generations, their family has been producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil, and in 2010, the TRE Olive brand was launched in the U.S. TRE Olive’s UMass bottle is available for purchase at the UMass campus store, the TRE Olive store in East Longmeadow, and online at www.treolive.com.

Hogan Technology Invited to National Convention

EASTHAMPTON — Hogan Technology participated in the 25th annual Technology Assurance Group (TAG) Convention on April 26-28 in Las Vegas — one of the technology industry’s premier events focused on innovation, collaboration, and the future of business technology. This year’s theme, “AI: Embrace, Capitalize, Dominate, Profit,” reflects a pivotal moment for business innovation. Artificial intelligence is no longer a future concept — it is actively reshaping how companies operate, serve customers, and compete. For Hogan Technology, attending this milestone event is about one thing: bringing back real-world strategies and technologies that directly improve outcomes for customers. Throughout the convention, Hogan Technology participated and provided insight during sessions focused on how AI can be applied across service operations, cybersecurity, and internal workflows.

Berkshire Heart & Mind Therapy Opening in Pittsfield

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Heart & Mind Therapy will host its grand opening and ribbon cutting on Thursday, April 30 from 3 to 7 p.m. at its new office located at 34 Depot St., Suite 303, Pittsfield. The event is open to the public and will include a ribbon cutting ceremony, tours of the new therapy space, family-friendly activities, and opportunities to meet Executive Director Colleen Passetto, a licensed independent clinical social worker, and her team. Light refreshments will be available. Berkshire Heart & Mind Therapy is a group private practice offering traumainformed, inclusive mental health services for children, adolescents, teens, adults, and seniors. The practice provides inperson therapy in Berkshire County and telehealth services throughout Massachusetts, expanding access to care for individuals and families statewide.

MountainOne Insurance Agency Opens Great Barrington Office

GREAT BARRINGTON — MountainOne Insurance Agency Inc. announced the opening of an office at 4 Castle St., Suite 201, in Great Barrington, marking a meaningful expansion of its presence in Southern Berkshire County. The appointment-only office will be staffed by account executive Dan Blaisdell, providing a local point of connection for clients throughout the Southern Berkshires. Blaisdell specializes in business insurance and brings deep knowledge of the region, along with long-standing relationships built through years of working closely with local organizations and entrepreneurs. The new Great Barrington office brings MountainOne Insurance closer to the clients it serves across Southern Berkshire County, offering personalized insurance guidance from a trusted local advisor who understands the community and its needs.

Dean’s Beans Earns High B Corp Impact Score

ORANGE — Dean’s Beans Organic Coffee Co. announced that its most recent B Corp recertification has earned the company a B Impact Score of 168.5, an increase of 57.9 points since its last certification in 2022. The new score places the Massachusetts-based, worker-owned coffee company as the highest scoring B Corp-certified coffee roaster in the world. B Corp certification is widely recognized as the gold standard for companies committed to balancing purpose and profit. Administered by the nonprofit B Lab, the certification evaluates companies against rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Businesses are assessed across key areas, including governance, treatment of workers, environmental practices, and community impact. Dean’s Beans is part of a global community of nearly 10,000 B Corps operating across more than 100 countries and 150 industries. Companies must earn a minimum score of 80 points to become certified. With a score of 168.5, Dean’s Beans lands in the top 25 B Corp companies certified since 2023. Since its last certification, the company transitioned to a worker-owned cooperative, giving employees shared ownership and a direct voice in how the company operates and grows. Founded in 1993 by environmental and Indigenous rights lawyer Dean Cycon, Dean’s Beans was built on the idea that a coffee company could prioritize people and the planet and still be profitable. The company sources organic, fair-trade, shade-grown coffee through long-term partnerships with farmer cooperatives. It also helps fund social, economic, and environmental projects identified and led by those communities. Dean’s Beans roasts all of its coffee at its ‘beanery’ in Orange, supplying cafés, grocery stores, and coffee drinkers across the U.S.

Country Bank Donates $10,000 to Quaboag Valley CDC

WARE — Country Bank announced a $10,000 donation to the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp. (QVCDC) to support programs that strengthen local businesses and promote economic development throughout the region. QVCDC plays an important role in supporting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and community members by providing access to resources, technical assistance, and business development services. Through its work, the organization helps foster sustainable economic growth and opportunity across the Quaboag Valley. Country Bank remains committed to supporting organizations that strengthen communities and expand economic opportunities throughout Central and Western Mass. Contributions like this help ensure local organizations have the resources they need to continue serving residents, businesses, and entrepreneurs in meaningful ways.

BusinessRate Recognizes Sugar Maple Trailside Inn

NORTHAMPTON — BusinessRate recently rated the Sugar Maple Trailside Inn the number-one bed and breakfast in Florence for endurance, momentum, and quality of its reviews on Google and Tripadvisor. In mid-February, owners Craig Della Penna and Kathy Della Penna received the ranking for the owner-occupied inn at 62 Chestnut St. in Florence, which sits on the rail trail that passes through the village and opened in February 2003. Sugar Maple Trailside Inn offers two rooms for guests, both of which have windows that face the trail. A bicycle strung with white bulbs lights up at dusk and becomes a welcoming beacon for arriving guests. The inn has roughly 350 guests in a year, a quarter of which have a connection to Smith College. Eighty percent of guests use the trail. The Sugar Maple Trailside Inn has received other accolades over the years, including the Historic Preservation Award from the city of Northampton and three times as a Valley Advocate Best in the Valley winner, and it has been featured on HGTV’s Restore America and Boston’s WCVB Channel 5’s Chronicle twice, and in Yankee magazine’s 70th-anniversary issue.

HCC Giving Day Campaign Raises More Than $131,000

HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Community College (HCC) Foundation raised more than $131,000 for scholarships and student support programs during its “Together HCC” one-day giving campaign on March 4, surpassing its six-year, $1 million goal. The sixth annual “Together HCC: Drive to Change Lives” campaign received donations worth $131,278 from 455 alumni, students, faculty, staff, and friends of the college during the 24-hour fundraising drive. All of the money raised goes directly to six areas that support HCC students: academic excellence and innovation, scholarships, the Thrive Student Resource Center and Food Pantry, the President’s Student Emergency Fund, the President’s Fund for Opportunity, and the HCC Foundation’s general, unrestricted fund. The HCC Foundation, the college’s charitable, nonprofit foundation, launched “Together HCC: A Campaign for Caring” in March 2020 to build community support and raise money for students experiencing financial distress during the pandemic. In 2021, with Holyoke auto dealer Gary Rome signed on, HCC added the “Drive to Change Lives” theme and collectively raised more than $1 million for student support programs.

AIC Launches Partnership with Western Mass Youth Sports

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) Athletics announced a landmark partnership with Western Mass Youth Sports, designating AIC as the official home for all Western Mass Youth Sports programming and Play 4 Her Flag Football activities. The partnership reflects AIC’s deep commitment to serving the broader community and creating an open, welcoming campus where youth and adults throughout Western Mass. can access world-class athletic facilities. Western Mass Youth Sports has quickly become a growing leader in youth athletics in the region, serving more than 300 young athletes across Western Mass. in sports including basketball, flag football, and more. Through this new partnership, all Western Mass Youth Sports events, practices, and competitions will be hosted on the AIC campus, giving young athletes access to collegiate-level facilities and a vibrant, supportive environment. A highlight of the partnership is AIC’s role as the official host of Play 4 Her Flag Football, a program dedicated to expanding opportunities for young women and girls in the sport. By providing a premier home for Play4Her, AIC continues its tradition of championing inclusivity and equal access to athletic opportunities for all members of the community.

HCC Production Earns Three Regional Theater Awards

HOLYOKE — The Holyoke Community College (HCC) Theater Department’s fall 2025 production of The Last Living Gun received three awards at the recent American College Theater Festival (ACTF) in Albany, N.Y. Collectively, the cast and crew of The Last Living Gun earned a merit award for Ensemble Work. The play by Ryan Stevens follows a mercenary across a post-apocalyptic landscape on an epic quest to find the last gun in existence. The show was guest-directed by Cordelia Winters Dwyer, a graduate student from the University of Massachusetts Theater program. HCC students Ivy Wrenne Demetriou and Toby Stearns received individual merit awards for their work as stage manager and musical director, respectively. Stearns also performed in the production as an actor and musician. HCC belongs to ACTF Region I, whose 2026 festival was held in January in Albany and hosted by Siena College. Region I includes colleges and universities in northern New York and all six New England states. Awards are based on the recommendations of respondents, who travel around the country to view college theater productions and offer critiques. The HCC Theater Department has won more than 20 ACTF awards over the past 15 years in multiple categories, including individual acting, ensemble acting, dedication to a script, stage management, musical direction, best original music, playwriting, and collaboration.

Greylock Federal Credit Union Reports Strong Performance

PITTSFIELD — Greylock Federal Credit Union reported a strong balance sheet, robust capital position, and impressive earnings for 2025 during its 91st annual meeting held on March 24. Total assets equaled nearly $1.7 billion at year end. Net income finished at $17.8 million for 2025, including the one-time benefit of $6.8 million of net proceeds from the Employee Retention Credit program, which was created by the federal government under the CARES Act to offset some of the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on organizations across the country. The credit union reported loan growth of $25 million, or 1.9%, during 2025. This growth was reflected across nearly every major loan category, as total loan balances exceed $1.3 billion. On the funding side, deposit balances increased $49 million, or 3.6%. At the end of 2025, Greylock deposit balances equaled $1.4 billion.

Farm Credit East Reports Strong 2025 Financial Results

ENFIELD, Conn. — Farm Credit East reported solid 2025 financial results at its annual meeting held on March 23. Continued loan growth coupled with strong earnings allowed Farm Credit East to distribute a combined $145 million in patronage dividends to eligible customer-owners based on 2025 earnings. In 2025, Farm Credit East’s net income grew to $367 million. Following more than two decades of growth, the cooperative closed out the year with $14.3 billion in loan volume and $2.6 billion in capital. This level of equity allows Farm Credit East to maintain competitive interest rates, while returning a portion of earnings to eligible customer-owners through patronage dividends.

Cancer Connection to Launch New Springfield Location

NORTHAMPTON — Cancer Connection announced it will open a new location in Springfield this spring, providing supports for people with a cancer diagnosis and their caregivers. This new site, in Bicentennial Plaza on Allen Street, will allow convenient access to its free services for more people in the Springfield community. The organization will also open a curated version of its popular thrift shop a few doors down in the same plaza. Like its flagship thrift shop in Northampton, the store will feature high-quality goods at low prices, and all proceeds will help fund Cancer Connection’s services for cancer patients and their caregivers. On Saturday, April 25 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a ribbon cutting and soft opening will take place at the new thrift shop location at 1510 Allen St., with friends and supporters joining the team to celebrate. This new location will be part of the Integrative Health Group at 1502 Allen St. and will have a dedicated program director on site. The Springfield thrift shop will offer a curated selection of gently used items, including clothing, housewares, jewelry, art, and books, all at reasonable prices and with all profits supporting Cancer Connection. Meanwhile, Cancer Connection will continue to offer its full range of services and programs at 41 Locust St. in Northampton and its thrift shop in that city. Many programs are offered in hybrid format, so they may be accessed anywhere.

United Way of Pioneer Valley Featured at Empath Conference

SPRINGFIELD — United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) announced the successful participation of Victoria Accorsi, community financial coach, mobility mentor, and AFC candidate, as a speaker at Economic Mobility Pathways’ (Empath) 2026 Disrupting Poverty Conference, held March 23-26 at Boston University. Accorsi served as a panelist in the session titled “Climbing Without Falling: New Ideas to Fix the Benefits Cliff,” which explored how sudden losses in food, housing, childcare, or health benefits can leave working families worse off after small wage increases. The session highlighted innovative approaches to benefit phaseouts, income transitions, and system redesign to ensure that work truly pays. Accorsi shared insights from her coaching work on the Bridge to Prosperity Cliff Effect Pilot, a three‑year initiative led by Springfield WORKS in partnership with United Way of Pioneer Valley and other community-based organizations across Massachusetts. The pilot supports up to 100 residents who receive public assistance by helping them pursue higher‑paying careers while mitigating the financial risks associated with benefits cliffs. Through the pilot, families receive supplemental cash assistance when rising wages trigger benefit losses, one-on-one financial and career coaching through partners such as UWPV, and access to employer partners offering training and living‑wage opportunities. As a United Way community financial coach, Accorsi works directly with participants to navigate budgeting, wage changes, benefits reductions, and long-term goal setting, providing crucial on‑the‑ground perspective to the statewide innovation effort.

Tighe & Bond Expands New Hampshire Presence

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond, a Northeast leader in engineering, environmental, planning, and design consulting services, announced the opening of the firm’s new office in Manchester, N.H.

Located at 1750 Elm St., Suite 902 within the Brady Sullivan Tower, this new location will allow Tighe & Bond to better service its growing client base in the Merrimack Valley and beyond. This strategic move expands the firm’s New Hampshire presence, joining its existing Portsmouth location, to serve communities on a local level. Tom Mahanna, who will serve as location manager, has been instrumental in leading the opening of this new space. A vice president within the firm’s Water Business Line, he brings more than three decades of experience in municipal consulting and construction in water resources and wastewater engineering, as well as managing resources and staff for multiple teams in the firm’s offices across the Northeast. This new office opening represents the latest growth opportunity for the firm, following the acquisition of New Hampshire-based hydrogeology and environmental firm Geosphere Environmental Management Inc. last year.

The Dowd Agencies Acquires Insurance Agency in Vermont

HOLYOKE — The Dowd Agencies, the oldest insurance agency in Massachusetts under continuous family ownership, today announced it is acquiring Royer Camp & Associated Insurance in Newport, Vt. Founded more than 50 years ago, Royer Camp & Associated Insurance has earned the trust of generations of Vermont and New Hampshire families and businesses by providing highly personalized service and tailored personal and commercial coverage. In keeping with that legacy, the agency will continue to operate under the name Royer Camp & Associated Insurance, a Member of the Dowd Agencies. Local customers will work with the same staff in the same location, with no changes to day-to-day service, policies, points of contact, or coverage. This marks the Dowd Agencies’ second location in Vermont, joining Lonergan & Thomas Insurance in Bennington, and complements its six offices serving communities across Western Mass.

Big Y Recognized for Workplace Culture

SPRINGFIELD — Big Y has been recognized as one of America’s Greatest Workplaces for Culture, Belonging & Community for 2026. The award is presented by Newsweek in partnership with Plant-A Insights Group, based on one of the nation’s largest independent studies of employee experience. The recognition highlights organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to workplace culture, inclusion, and community, as evaluated through extensive employee feedback and independent research. The study analyzed millions of employee reviews nationwide, incorporating survey data, public information, and third-party analysis to assess how employees experience culture, belonging, and support in the workplace.

Precision Concepts International Acquires Meredith-Springfield

LUDLOW — Meredith-Springfield Associates Inc. announced it has been acquired by Precision Concepts International LLC, a diversified provider of rigid packaging solutions based in Huntersville, N.C. Precision Concepts is a leading plastic manufacturer and packaging solutions provider with a focus on sustainability and innovation. Meredith specializes in the design and blow molding of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and HDPE (high-density polyethylene) bottles and containers. Meredith will continue to be led by its existing leadership team. Existing and prospective Meredith customers will also have the opportunity to leverage Precision Concepts’ other manufacturing facilities across the U.S., Canada, and Latin America to meet their constantly evolving needs.

Berkshire Bank Exceeds Goal with Community Comeback

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank’s Community Comeback program concluded by exceeding its $5 billion goal to lend and invest across the company’s markets. The bank launched the multi-year program as communities emerged from the pandemic in 2021. The impact of Community Comeback is a testament to the bank’s commitment to unlock the financial potential of the communities where its employees and clients live and work. The program focused on strengthening communities in four key areas: fueling small businesses, community financing and philanthropy, financial access and empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Highlights of its results include lending more than $3.5 billion to invest in low- to moderate-income neighborhoods, more than $600 million in lending for low-carbon projects, more than 800,000 individuals impacted through financial-wellness programming, 100% renewable electricity use since 2023, and more than $50 million in sustainable investments under management. The Community Comeback program was honored late last year with the prestigious Community Commitment Award by the American Bankers Assoc. (ABA) Foundation for its positive impact on economic inclusion in area communities.

Comcast Awards $20,000 to Urban League of Springfield

SPRINGFIELD — Comcast announced a $20,000 grant to support the Urban League of Springfield’s Digital Learning Lab, a community resource that is helping to bridge the digital divide in Western Mass. by providing 150 participants each year with essential technology and internet skills training, specialty workshops, and more. The $20,000 grant will help fund a variety of enrichment training programs at the Urban League’s Digital Learning Lab. Programs include the Foster Grandparent Program, which helps seniors gain confidence in using online tools to mentor youth, and the Project Ready Program, which teaches students coding, advanced digital security, and pathways to careers in computer science. This grant from Comcast is part of Project UP, Comcast’s commitment to provide digital opportunities through programs and community partnerships that connect people to the internet, advance economic mobility, and open doors for the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, storytellers, and creators.

Survey Recognizes MassMutual for Employee Retention

SPRINGFIELD — Careerminds, a global outplacement and career-development firm, polled 3,023 workers to reveal the top companies nailing employee retention, and why. According to the survey, Massachusetts’ three most coveted employers are MassMutual in Springfield, followed by Biogen and HubSpot, both in Cambridge. MassMutual is known for solid retirement benefits, automatically contributing 10% of pay into a retirement plan, regardless of employee contributions, on top of 401(k) matching, while offering a rare cash-balance pension for guaranteed income. New hires see this 10% boost immediately, alongside a $1,250 yearly wellness stipend for gym memberships or financial tools. Nationally, the top five companies to work for, based on perks and benefits, are Google, Coca-Cola, Ben & Jerry’s, Hawaiian Airlines, and Nike, according to the Careerminds survey.

AIC Designated 2025-26 Military Friendly School

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) announced it has earned the 2025-26 Military Friendly School designation. AIC’s Silver Award signifies that the college is among the top 20% of colleges supporting veterans and military-connected students. Only a select group of institutions achieve this honor, highlighting their commitment to serving military personnel and their families. Institutions earning the Military Friendly School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2025-26 survey, with 830 earning awards for going above the standard. The 2025-26 Military Friendly Schools list will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and can be found at militaryfriendly.com. Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly advisory council of independent leaders in the higher-education and military-recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey scores with the assessment of the institution’s ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer), and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

Dewey’s Jazz Lounge Permanently Closes

SPRINGFIELD — Dewey’s Jazz Lounge, a Springfield restaurant and lounge known for its soulful ambiance, vibrant events, and dedication to community and hospitality, permanently closed its doors on April 23. Opened in 2021, Dewey’s Lounge has spent the past four years building a reputation as one of the city’s most welcoming, community-centered establishments. From live music and themed nights to special events and private celebrations, Dewey’s quickly became a cultural hub and a go-to destination for unforgettable experiences. Over the years, Dewey’s has hosted countless milestones: weddings, engagements, birthdays, bridal showers, retirements, and more.

bankESB Facilitates Grant for Volunteers in Public Schools

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB announced that it has nominated Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) of Westfield for a Massachusetts Bankers Assoc. (MBA) Charitable Foundation grant, resulting in the organization receiving a $1,000 award. Each year, the MBA Charitable Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations across Massachusetts, with recipients nominated by member banks. bankESB nominated VIPS of Westfield in recognition of its dedication to enhancing educational opportunities and supporting students and educators in Westfield Public Schools. VIPS of Westfield works to foster partnerships between the community and the school system, providing vital resources such as tutoring, mentoring, and program support to benefit students of all ages. The $1,000 grant will help the organization continue its mission of engaging volunteers and enhancing educational programs in Westfield’s public schools.

Eversource Earns VETS Indexes’ 3 Star Employer Award for 2025

SPRINGFIELD — As a testament to its commitment to making veterans a priority in the workplace, Eversource has again been recognized by VETS Indexes as one of the nation’s top veteran employers for 2025. Honored with the 3 Star Employer Award, the distinction highlights the energy company’s continued achievements in recruiting, hiring, developing, and supporting both veterans and the military-connected community. Eversource is one of nearly 300 organizations that were recognized this year by VETS Indexes for their strong commitment to veterans, members of the National Guard and Reserves, and military spouses. Participating organizations that completed and submitted surveys for the VETS Indexes Employer Awards included companies large and small, government agencies and departments, nonprofit groups, and colleges and universities.

Hampshire Meadow Family & Pediatric Dentistry to Expand

HADLEY — Hampshire Meadow Family & Pediatric Dentistry is breaking ground on a cutting-edge, 4,600-square-foot facility at the corner of Route 9 and East Street. This will allow the practice to meet skyrocketing demand, as its current facility — built just five years ago — has outgrown its capacity. In addition to increasing capacity for general dentistry, the new facility will serve as a regional hub for children with severe cases of decay or special healthcare needs. In 2024, the practice provided 2,962 appointments for MassHealth patients, with 2,100 pediatric and 380 adult Medicaid patients on its active roster. The practice owners hope to attract more skilled dental professionals to the region. The new facility represents a nearly $3 million investment by practice owners Dr. Cyrus Safizadeh and Dr. Noelle Nubani in the Pioneer Valley. This is in addition to more than $1 million they had previously invested in the current space. It is being built by Sweitzer Construction of Monson and 20 local subcontractors and materials vendors. The building is being designed by Larry Tuttle of Architectural Insights of Palmer. The Sweitzer team has decades of experience building state-of-the-art dental and medical facilities and built Hampshire Meadow’s original facility five years ago. The practice itself currently has 15 full-time employees, and that number is expected to increase.

Berkshire Bank Named Among Most Trustworthy Companies

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank has been recognized for the fourth consecutive year as one of the most trusted companies in America in Newsweek magazine’s list of the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2025. Berkshire is the only Massachusetts-based bank on the list. In all, about 3,400 companies headquartered in the U.S. were considered for the list. In the end, 700 companies in 23 industries were honored. Results evaluated customer trust, employee trust, and investor trust. The analysis included what was said about the companies online, including on social-media platforms, and survey results of approximately 25,000 U.S. residents. Survey respondents who knew companies well were asked, among other things, if they believed individual companies treated their customers fairly, treated their employees fairly, and would be good long-term investments.

Peter Pan Named Motorcoach Operator of the Year

SPRINGFIELD — Peter Pan Bus Lines has been named the 2025 Motorcoach Operator of the Year by METRO magazine. This prestigious award, presented at the United Motorcoach Assoc. (UMA) Expo in Oklahoma City, Okla., recognizes excellence in motorcoach safety, customer service, operational performance, and industry innovation. “This award is a true testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire Peter Pan Bus Lines team,” said Peter B. Picknelly, director of Safety & Security. “For four generations, our family has remained committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable transportation to millions of passengers across the Northeast and beyond. To be recognized at the UMA Expo, one of the most important gatherings in the motorcoach industry, is an incredible honor. As a proud American family-owned and operated company, we are grateful for this recognition and remain committed to shaping the future of travel.”

Living Local 413 Launches Social Platform for Businesses

SPRINGFIELD — Living Local 413 is announced the launch of 413 Online (413online.com), an innovative business-community social platform designed to connect and support businesses, entrepreneurs, and professionals across Western Mass. This new social platform is a dedicated online hub that fosters collaboration, networking, and resource sharing for Western Mass. businesses of all sizes and types. With interactive features, business directories, event listings, and access to essential resources, 413 Online aims to empower local businesses to thrive in today’s competitive market while strengthening the regional economy. Key features of 413 Online include a business directory and listings; an events calendar; a job and opportunity board for employment, internship, and volunteer opportunities; a resource hub through which to access business-development resources, mentorship opportunities, and expert guidance; and opportunities to engage in discussions, share insights, and collaborate with other business owners and professionals. The platform is open to all businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs in Western Massachusetts. A free membership option is available for community members, with premium features available for businesses looking to expand their reach and engagement. To learn more or join the community, visit 413online.com.

McClure Insurance Agency Rebrands to MountainOne

WEST SPRINGFIELD, WILBRAHAM — MountainOne announced that McClure Insurance Agency, acquired in November 2024, will officially rebrand as MountainOne Insurance Agency. Following the successful acquisition and rebranding of G.W. Morisi Insurance Agency in July 2024, this transition signifies MountainOne’s continued expansion in the Pioneer Valley, further strengthening its capacity to serve customers across Western Mass. As of March 17, McClure Insurance Agency has completed its integration into the MountainOne family. This transition includes adopting MountainOne’s systems and rebranding as MountainOne Insurance Agency. Customers can continue to visit their local insurance offices at 103 Van Deene Ave. in West Springfield and 2361 Boston Road in Wilbraham, and rely upon the same team of employees. They will also have access to a third Pioneer Valley location at 473 Longmeadow St. in Longmeadow.

MountainOne Bank, Mechanics Cooperative Bank to Merge Holding Companies

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne Financial MHC, the mutual holding company parent of MountainOne Bank, and Mechanics Bancorp MHC, the mutual holding company parent of Mechanics Cooperative Bank, jointly announced they have entered into a formal agreement to merge into a combined mutual holding company. After the completion of the merger, the new consolidated holding company for both banks will be MountainOne Financial MHC, and both banks will continue to operate independently, retaining their respective charters, headquarters, and brand names. The agreement, approved by both institution’s boards of trustees, awaits regulatory and corporator approval. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2025. After completion of the merger, the new consolidated holding company for both banks will have approximately $1.8 billion in assets and 15 full-service retail banking locations across Massachusetts. Robert Fraser will become chairman, and Joseph Baptista Jr. will become president and CEO of the combined mutual holding company. Fraser will continue in his role as president and CEO of MountainOne Bank, and Baptista will also remain as president and CEO of Mechanics Cooperative Bank. Under the terms of the agreement, no reductions in staff are planned at either institution. Furthermore, the agreement specifies a shared commitment to mutuality, a cornerstone of the combined organization.

MassHire Holyoke Relocates to STEAM Building

HOLYOKE — After 29 years at 850 High St., MassHire Holyoke will relocate to a new office at the STEAM Building, 208 Race St., effective March 31. The new location will provide a welcoming environment designed to better serve job seekers, employers, and community partners. MassHire Holyoke provides a wide range of career and workforce-development services, including job-search assistance and workshops, a fully equipped resource center, career counseling, training programs, and employer recruitment support.

Berkshire Bank Supports Square One Campaign

SPRINGFIELD — In keeping with its commitment to investing in education and the economic mobility it creates, the Berkshire Bank Foundation has awarded $20,000 to the “Back to Square One” capital campaign. In March 2023, Square One formally announced plans to expand access to early learning and care for the region’s children and families. Since that time, the campaign has succeeded in securing more than $13 million to build a new early-learning and family-support center in Springfield’s South End, at the same location where Square One once stood, prior to the 2011 tornado. The building is slated to open in June 2025. Simultaneously, the demand for Square One’s family-support services has grown to the point where Square One will have already outgrown the 26,000-square-foot building before opening its doors. While the success of its programs and services is something to be celebrated, the limited space is presenting a significant challenge. To answer this need, Balise Auto donated a building adjacent to the new construction. The unoccupied building is in need of approximately $4 million in renovations, which will begin following completion of the new construction.

bankESB Parent Company Wins Top Workplaces Award

EASTHAMPTON — Hometown Financial Group, the parent company of bankESB, bankHometown, North Shore Bank, Abington Bank, a division of North Shore Bank, and Hometown Mortgage, announced it has earned the 2025 USA Today Top Workplaces award for the third time in four years. Top Workplaces USA celebrates organizations with 150 or more employees that are dedicated to building an exceptional, people-first culture. Winners are chosen based solely on employee feedback gathered through an anonymous, third-party employee-engagement survey issued by Energage, a leading provider of technology-based employee engagement tools. More than 42,000 organizations across the country were invited to participate in the Top Workplaces USA survey. Results were calculated by comparing the survey’s research-based statements, including 15 culture drivers proven to predict high performance against industry benchmarks.

Keiter, PV Squared Named to Fastest-growing Companies List

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Keiter, based in West Springfield, and PV Squared Solar, based in Greenfield, were both recently named to the Boston Globe’s inaugural list of New England’s 50 fastest-growing companies. The honor was presented in collaboration with Statista, a global statistics portal and industry-ranking provider. Awardees were chosen based on each organization’s revenue and organic growth and independence. Globe leaders said the companies recognized represent potential investment opportunities and indicate sectors that are thriving despite adversity. Additionally, their success stories can serve as blueprints for other businesses looking to innovate and grow in uncertain times. Thousands of companies were considered, and a minimum growth rate of 8.49% was required for inclusion.

Farm Credit East Reports Strong 2024 Financial Results

ENFIELD, Conn. — Farm Credit East reported solid 2024 financial results at its recent annual meeting. Continued loan growth coupled with strong earnings allowed it to distribute a combined $140 million in patronage dividends to eligible customer-owners based on 2024 earnings. In 2024, Farm Credit East’s net income grew to $337 million. Following more than two decades of growth, the cooperative closed out the year with $12.9 billion in loan volume and $2.4 billion in capital. This level of equity allows it to maintain competitive interest rates, while returning a portion of earnings to eligible customer-owners through patronage dividends. The $140 million total patronage paid to members in February is a combination of $131.6 million in patronage dividends based on 2024 cooperative earnings and a $8.4 million special patronage payment the board of directors approved, resulting from the association’s strong results, which exceeded financial targets.

Hampshire Meadow Family & Pediatric Dentistry to Expand

HADLEY — Hampshire Meadow Family & Pediatric Dentistry is breaking ground on a cutting-edge, 4,600-square-foot facility at the corner of Route 9 and East Street. This will allow the practice to meet skyrocketing demand, as its current facility — built just five years ago — has outgrown its capacity. In addition to increasing capacity for general dentistry, the new facility will serve as a regional hub for children with severe cases of decay or special healthcare needs. In 2024, the practice provided 2,962 appointments for MassHealth patients, with 2,100 pediatric and 380 adult Medicaid patients on its active roster. The practice owners hope to attract more skilled dental professionals to the region. The new facility represents a nearly $3 million investment by practice owners Dr. Cyrus Safizadeh and Dr. Noelle Nubani in the Pioneer Valley. This is in addition to more than $1 million they had previously invested in the current space. It is being built by Sweitzer Construction of Monson and 20 local subcontractors and materials vendors. The building is being designed by Larry Tuttle of Architectural Insights of Palmer. The Sweitzer team has decades of experience building state-of-the-art dental and medical facilities and built Hampshire Meadow’s original facility five years ago. The practice itself currently has 15 full-time employees, and that number is expected to increase.

Berkshire Bank Named Among Most Trustworthy Companies

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank has been recognized for the fourth consecutive year as one of the most trusted companies in America in Newsweek magazine’s list of the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2025. Berkshire is the only Massachusetts-based bank on the list. In all, about 3,400 companies headquartered in the U.S. were considered for the list. In the end, 700 companies in 23 industries were honored. Results evaluated customer trust, employee trust, and investor trust. The analysis included what was said about the companies online, including on social-media platforms, and survey results of approximately 25,000 U.S. residents. Survey respondents who knew companies well were asked, among other things, if they believed individual companies treated their customers fairly, treated their employees fairly, and would be good long-term investments.