Departments Archives - Page 119 of 149

Briefcase

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Briefcase Departments

Six Vie for Project Manager Services for Union Station
SPRINGFIELD — The City of Springfield recently received six responses to the Springfield Redevelopment Authority’s (SRA) request for owners project manager (OPM) services for the Union Station Regional Intermodal Transportation Center. The services requested also will apply to the transfer of funds from the Pioneer Valley Transit Authority for a portion of the project. The SRA owns Union Station, including the former terminal and adjacent baggage building and the site of the former Hotel Charles, and is retaining the services of an OPM to represent its interests in the design and construction of the proposed transportation center. The firms interested in the project are Arcadis US Inc. of Atlanta, Ga., with a Springfield office; HEERY International Inc. of Burlington; the Louis Berger Group Inc. of Needham; SKANSKA USA Building Inc. of Boston; URS Corp.-New York of Boston; and Western Mass. OPM Services, LLC of Holyoke. Those that meet the minimum qualifications stated in the request will be evaluated and ranked by a review committee designated by the SRA governing board. Top-ranking firms may be interviewed by the committee, which then will submit its list of the top three firms to the governing board. The process is expected to take four weeks. The fee for services will be negotiated between the SRA and the selected firm. Plans call for restoring the main terminal building and using the adjacent site of the former baggage-handling building for construction of a 23-bay bus terminal with a 400-space public parking garage located on the upper levels.

August Retail Sales Up
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Census Bureau recently announced that advance estimates of U.S. retail and food services sales for August, adjusted for seasonal variation and holiday and trading-day differences, but not for price changes, were $363.7 billion, an increase of 0.4% from the previous month, and 3.6% above August 2009. Total sales for the June through August 2010 period were up 4.7% from the same period a year ago. The June to July 2010 percent change was revised from +0.4% to +0.3%. Retail trade sales were up 0.5% from July 2010, and 3.7% above last year. Non-store retailers’ sales were up 10.5% from August 2009, and gasoline stations were up 9.6% from last year. The Advance Monthly Retail Sales for Retail and Food Services for September is scheduled to be released Oct. 15.

Energy-efficiency Training Courses Set
BOSTON — The Mass. Clean Energy Center (MassCEC) recently announced the second round of weatherization workshops under the MassGREEN Initiative, which provides energy-efficiency workforce training for individuals and contracting firms throughout the state. Four state community colleges will host the program’s course for people with little or no background in weatherization concepts or practices, including entry-level workers and residential construction trades seeking to expand their knowledge and services in energy efficiency. Upcoming local training sessions are planned at Springfield Technical Community College, One Armory Square, from Sept. 30 to Dec. 16; and at Greenfield Community College, Franklin County Technical School in Turners Falls, from Sept. 30 to Nov. 20. Successful graduates of the course will be prepared to take the Building Performance Institute Installer exams for air sealing and dense packing, which are up-to-date insulation techniques. For more information on the class schedule, visit the web sites of the local colleges. For more information on MassCEC, visit www.masscec.com

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Company Notebook Departments

WNEC, Big Y Create Wellness Center
SPRINGFIELD — Big Y Foods Inc. and Western New England College School of Pharmacy have partnered to create a faculty pharmacist-run, patient-centered Consultation and Wellness Center at 300 Cooley St. The facility is one of the largest pharmacy consultation and wellness centers in the region and the first to be located in a supermarket. Patients are able to make an appointment with a pharmacist who will work with the individual and their physician to optimize their care. A grand-opening ceremony was staged Sept. 10. Services offered include education and training programs, blood-glucose evaluations, individualized patient care plans, and medication review. The creators of the center note that the services are needed now more than ever given the aging population and the increasing strain on the state’s health care system. Kam Capoccia, clinical associate professor at the School of Pharmacy, will supervise the center. Capoccia notes that collaborative practice models in other states have already demonstrated the ability to improve the health of their patients and save the health care system millions of dollars. Capoccia added that among the goals of the center’s creators are to decrease visits to the emergency room and the number of hospital readmissions by collaborating with physicians on patient care. For more information on the center, call (413) 782-4606 or (413) 796-2000.

Comcast Donates Supplies to Springfield Students
SPRINGFIELD — Comcast recently donated more than 500 backpacks stuffed with classroom essentials to city students from the Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services Afterschool Program, in partnership with Cradles to Crayons, a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving children in need the basic essentials they need to be ready to learn. Comcast and Cradles to Crayons also presented the site with a playground bag filled with essentials including bats, balls, and Frisbees.

NewAlliance, First Niagara Create Top-25 U.S. Bank
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The boards of directors of First Niagara Financial Group Inc. and New Haven, Conn.-based NewAlliance Bancshares Inc. recently announced that the companies entered into a merger agreement, valued on a fixed exchange ratio of 1.10 shares of First Niagara stock for each NewAlliance share. The merger of NewAlliance into First Niagara will be a cash-and-stock transaction creating a top-25 U.S. bank, by assets. The combined bank will have more than $29 billion in assets, including more than $14 billion in loans, as well as $18 billion in deposits. NewAlliance’s 88 branches serve eight counties from Greenwich, Conn., to Springfield. Currently, First Niagara serves communities across Upstate New York, Western Penn. including Pittsburgh, and Eastern Penn. from the Philadelphia suburbs to Allentown. NewAlliance’s Church Street headquarters in New Haven, Conn., is slated to become First Niagara’s New England Regional Market Center.

Law Firm Receives Award
SPRINGFIELD — Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., has been selected for the 2010 Best of Worcester Award in the local business category by the U.S. Commerce Assoc. (USCA). The firm has offices in Springfield, Worcester, and Meriden, Conn. The USCA Best of Local Business award program recognizes local businesses throughout the country. Each year, the USCA identifies companies it believes have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. Winners are determined based on both the information gathered internally by the USCA and data provided by third parties.

MMWEC Upgrades Energy Conservation Web Site
LUDLOW — The Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Co. (MMWEC) recently introduced a redesigned Web site for its Home Energy Loss Prevention Services (HELPS) program. HELPS provides energy education, home-energy audits, assistance with home-energy improvements, and ENERGY STAR appliance rebates to municipal utility customers. In addition, HELPS provides customers with a gauge of their home’s solar energy potential as a standard part of every audit, with turnkey services for solar-system installation available through the program. HELPS is the residential component of MMWEC’s energy-conservation and efficiency services, which also include programs for commercial, industrial, and institutional customer classes. The redesigned Web site is located at www.munihelps.org.

MassMutual: Plan Participants Stable
SPRINGFIELD — MassMutual’s Retirement Services Division has released data for the quarter ended June 30 indicating that participants in retirement plans administered by MassMutual showed no signs of panic despite the decline in the S&P 500 index, with 96% of participants either maintaining or increasing their savings rates. This behavior helps explain why, despite the stock market’s sharp decline for the second quarter with the S&P 500 index losing 11.4%, MassMutual’s average participant account balance declined by only 3.26%, beating the S&P 500 index by 8.14%, according to E. Heather Smiley, chief marketing officer for MassMutual’s Retirement Services Division. Smiley noted that the “substantially better” performance for participant accounts is primarily attributable to the benefits of continued ongoing deposits by participants and an increased percentage of assets allocated to stable value and bond investments. Male participants fared slightly better than females for the quarter (–2.7% compared to –5.5%) primarily as a result of the impact of higher average deferral rates. The percentage of participant assets in equity investments declined from 41.1% to 38.4% during the quarter, with stable value increasing from 26.3% to 28.4%, and investment in bonds increasing from 7.6% to 8.6%. The percentage in asset-allocation investments (target date and target risk) was relatively unchanged. MassMutual’s data covers approximately 1 million participants across more than 6,000 plans.

TD Charitable Foundation Boosts Museum Programs
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Museums recently received a $10,000 grant from TD Bank through the TD Charitable Foundation for its Weekend Family Fun series of educational programs. Family programs highlight holidays, special exhibitions, cultures from around the world, and topics including dinosaurs and Dr. Seuss. Each program includes a performance, hands-on demonstrations, science activities, and craft workshops. TD Bank, through its foundation, provides financial assistance for a variety of cultural and community events. Holly Smith-Bové, president of the Springfield Museums, noted that, without support from TD Bank, these popular programs would not be possible.

Bolduc’s Apparel Under New Ownership
AGAWAM — Bolduc’s Apparel, a sports and custom-apparel company, was purchased in August by the firm’s former vice president and general manager, Todd M. Adelson of Longmeadow. The firm specializes in custom business, corporate, and leisure apparel, as well as school-spirit wear and promotional products. Bolduc’s employs more than 20 full-time employees, many of whom have been with the company for 15 or more years. Adelson noted that he is looking forward to continuing the firm’s steady growth through daily attention to customer satisfaction and the quality of the locally produced custom products.

Firm Acquires ADNET Technologies Inc.
SPRINGFIELD — Kostin, Ruffkess and Co., LLC recently acquired ADNET Technologies Inc. of Farmington, Conn., according to Richard V. Kretz, managing member of the local firm. ADNET is an information-technology firm that specializes in developing and implementing IT solutions for its clients, with measurable returns on investment. With the addition of the new members from ADNET, Kretz noted that the firm can better serve clients with an expansive set of resources “unlike any other accounting, business-consulting, or information-technology company in the region.” Kostin, Ruffkess and Co. also has Connecticut offices in Farmington and New London.

Friendly’s Adds Another Express Restaurant
WILBRAHAM — Friendly’s Express, a unit of Friendly’s new fast-casual concept, will open in Methuen on Sept. 28. The newest Friendly’s Express, located at the Loop at 90 Pleasant Valley St., will offer a fast, fun way for people on-the-go to get the food they crave. The short service time will make Friendly’s Express perfect for quick office lunch breaks, and easy for moms running errands with their children. While guests will place orders at the counter, food will be delivered to each guest’s table. When guests are ready for ice cream, they can place a numbered tag on the edge of their table, and a food runner will bring them their desserts. The 2,338-square-foot restaurant seats 60 and includes additional seating on the patio for seasonal outdoor dining. The Friendly’s Express design incorporates the signature Friendly’s red elements throughout, along with bright tiles and custom pop-art of Friendly’s ice-cream creations. The restaurant features a limited menu of Friendly’s favorites, including SuperMelt sandwiches, Friendly’s Big Beef burgers, salads, Fribbles, kids’ meals, and, of course, ice cream desserts.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Chamber Corners Departments

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

n Oct. 1: Hampden/Wilbraham Golf Classic. Hosted by the Country Club of Wilbraham. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 787-1555 or [email protected]
n Oct. 6: ACCGS October Business@Breakfast, 7:15 to 9 a.m. Hosted by the Cedars, 419 Island Pond Road, Springfield. Cost: members, $20; non-members, $30. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 787-1555 or [email protected]
n Oct. 13: ACCGS October After 5, 5 to 7 p.m. ‘Be Your Best Self’ Table Top Expo, the Mind, Body & Spirit Expo. Hosted by MassMutual Center. Cost: members, $10; non-members, $20. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 787-1555 or [email protected]
n Oct. 23: UMass vs. UNH Bus Trip to Gillette Stadium, 11:00 a.m. bus departure. Cost: ticket to the game, $20; ticket and bus ride, $40; ticket, bus, and food, $50.
n Oct. 29: Super 60 Awards Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Hosted by Chez Josef, Agawam. Keynote dpeaker: Steven Little. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 787-1555 or [email protected]

Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield
www.springfieldyps.com
n Oct. 21: Third Thursday, 5 to 8 p.m. Hosted by the Munich Haus Restaurant, 13 Center St., Chicopee.
n Oct. 23: The Down Syndrome Resource Group of Western Massachusetts ‘Buddy Walk.’ This group provides information about family support, resources, parent training, and social opportunities. Its mission is to discover, encourage, and embrace the potential of all individuals with Down syndrome. Registration for the walk to begin at 10 a.m., with coffee and light refreshments available. Two-mile walk to begin at about 11 a.m., followed by a complimentary lunch and entertainment.

Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce
www.amherstarea.com
Please see chamber’s Web site for news of upcoming events.

Chicopee Chamber of Commerce
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

n Oct. 4: Checkpoint 2010, 7:30 a.m. Hosted by Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Keynote Speaker: U.S. Sen. Scott Brown. Presented by the Chicopee and Greater Westfield chambers of commerce. Cost: members, $25; non-members, $30. To reserve tickets, contact the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce at (413) 594-2101 or www.chicopeechamber.org
n Oct. 20: October Salute Breakfast. Hosted by Summit View Banquet & Meeting House, Holyoke. Guest speaker: political consultant Tony Cignoli. To reserve tickets, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or www.chicopeechamber.org
n Oct. 27: After 5 Business Card Swap – Speed Networking, 5 to 6:30 p.m. Hosted by the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Limited to 24 people; registration ends on Oct. 25. Cost: members, $25; non-members, $35. To reserve tickets, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or www.chicopeechamber.org

Franklin County Chamber of Commerce
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463
Please see chamber’s Web site for news of upcoming events.

Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

n Oct. 1: Casino Night, 7 to 11 p.m., at One Cottage St., Easthampton. Major sponsors: Easthampton Savings Bank and Finck & Perras Insurance Agency. Cost: $25 in advance; $30 at the door. See www.easthamptonchamber.org for more information.
n Oct. 13: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5 to 7 p.m. Co-hosted and co-sponsored by Nashawannuck Gallery and Harry King Rug & Home, 36-40 Cottage St., Easthampton. Hors d’ouevres by Sunshine Bakery, beer and wine, door prizes. Cost: members, $5; non-members, $15.

Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

n Oct. 14: Fall Salute Breakfast, 7:30 a.m., at the Log Cabin, Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Medical Center and Comcast. Cost: $18; tables reserved for parties of eight.
n Oct: 20: Chamber After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m. Hosted by Holyoke Children’s Museum, 444 Dwight St., Holyoke. Sponsored by All Sales Consulting, LLC. Cost: members, $5; non-members, $10 cash.

Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

n Oct. 6: Annual Chamber Open House, 5 to 7 p.m. Hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. It’s the don’t-miss chamber event of the year. More than 300 people regularly attend. Food and drink donated by member restaurants. Cost: $10 for members.

Northampton Area Young Professional Society
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900

n Oct. 14: NAYP Party with a Purpose, 5 to 8 p.m., at KW Home. Cost: members, free; guests, $5.

Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce
www.qvcc.biz
(413) 283-2418
Please see chamber’s Web site for news of upcoming events.

South Hadley/Granby Chamber of Commerce
www.shchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

n Oct. 15: Legislative Breakfast, 7:15 to 9 a.m. Hosted by the Courtyard by Marriott. Sponsored by Western Massachusetts Electric Co.
n Oct. 27: After 5, 5 to 7 p.m. Hosted by Hickory Ridge Country Club. Sponsorships available.

Three Rivers Chamber of Commerce
www.threeriverschamber.org
(413) 283-6425

n Oct. 4: Chamber Meeting, 7 p.m. Hosted by Three Rivers Chamber of Commerce office, Palmer Technology Park, Springfield St., Palmer.
Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

n Oct 13: WestNet After 5 Networking Octoberfest, 5 to 7 p.m. Hosted by East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Cost: members, $10; non-members, 15. Bring plenty of business cards for exchange, and bring a gift to highlight your business. For more information, e-mail [email protected], call (413) 568-1618, or check out www.westfieldbiz.org
n Oct. 16: ‘Bring Back the 80s’ Dance, 7 to 11 p.m. Hosted by Westwood Restaurant and Pub, 94 North Elm St., Westfield. Featuring Orange Crush, the 80s Dance Party Band. Cost: $20. Prizes awarded for most authentic dressers and raffles.

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Court Dockets Departments

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

CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
NES Rental Holdings Inc. v. Alpha & Omega Construction
Allegation: Breach of contract for rental equipment: $2,789.35
Filed: 8/23/10

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
CIT Technology Financing Services LLC v. Billups World Entertainment Inc.
Allegation: Breach of lease agreement: $54,598.34
Filed: 7/16/10

Liberty Mutual Insurance A/S/O Smith & Wesson Holding Corp. v. Kennedy, Gustafson, & Cole Inc.
Allegation: Breach of warranty and property damage caused by fire: $1,982,000
Filed: 7/21/10

People’s United Bank v. La Cucina Di Pinocchio Inc.
Allegation: Breach of several promissory notes: $673,140.77
Filed: 8/11/10

Plaza @ Buckland Hills LLC v. Emanuel Rovithis and Demetia Inc.
Allegation: Enforcement of judgment: $274,582.32
Filed: 7/23/10

Pravin Mathur v. Roy’s Towing Co. and John Burdick
Allegation: Negligence in operation of motor vehicle: $1,600,000
Filed: 8/6/10

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Acadia Insurance Co. v. Bishop Burner Services
Allegation: Balance due for insurance premium: $37,042
Filed: 8/11/10

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Bradco Supply v. Henderson Roofing Co.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,174.35
Filed: 7/23/10

Comcast Spotlight Inc. v. Brockton Fair
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $11,025.72
Filed: 7/22/10

Consumer Auto Parts v. Fini’s Auto Sales
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $5,549.60
Filed: 7/22/10

High Priority Associates Inc. v. Ilmondo Pizza
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $7,298.91
Filed: 7/22/10

Western Massachusetts Electric v. Springfield Bible Institute & Theological Seminary
Allegation: Non-payment of utility services: $10,243.93
Filed: 7/15/10

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
ServiceMaster Assured Cleaning v. Big Family Adventure
Allegation: Failure to pay for cleaning services and breach of contract: $14,270.78
Filed: 7/26/10

Opinion

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Opinion

Don’t Put the Brakes on Science, Progress

In light of the latest developments of the on-again, off-again, on-again government funding of human embryonic stem-cell research, it is time to consider the devastating implications of this chaotic funding environment. And to do that, one needs to understand how a modern research lab operates.
A typical lab has 20 to 40 people, led by a senior researcher (the ‘principal investigator’). Most people in a lab are doctoral students or postdoctoral students who are pursuing careers in science.
Labs have many different projects under investigation simultaneously. Most labs have annual budgets of $1 million to $5 million, with most of that money coming from grants from institutions like the National Institutes of Health.
The NIH allocates money to researchers whose proposals are reviewed by a panel of scientists knowledgeable in the field. A typical grant proposal is 25 single-spaced pages and takes months to prepare. The NIH responds in approximately 9 months.
Because the demand for money exceeds the supply, only 20% of the proposals get NIH funding. A researcher receiving his or her first major NIH grant is more than 40 years old, on average.
Lab leaders spend a great deal of their energy recruiting the right people for their lab, nurturing a portfolio of interesting projects, and raising money. Most principal investigators, even the most successful ones in the world, spend at least 25% of their time trying to get money. If they can’t get money, they lay off people and cancel projects.
Now imagine you are a post-doc in a lab and are working on a project to use human embryonic stem cells to cure diabetes by creating new beta cells in the pancreas.
This is difficult work that is high-risk, but high-reward. You have come to grips with the many ethical considerations in working with stem cells derived from embryos that were created during IVF procedures and were destined to be destroyed before the donors agreed they could be used for research. You have begun to get traction in your career, and have been a prominent co-author on several articles in well-respected journals.
When you read the news that your research is now illegal, you are horrified. You are back at square one. Years of research are potentially wasted.
You have no viable research projects underway. It will take well over a year to begin a new research stream, and there is a low probability you will get funded in a new area. You may be fired. In short, your career is in danger of total meltdown.
That is the real cost of our randomized model of research support in the U.S., in which a change in administration or a court ruling can outlaw work that was previously supported by the government. Funding can be canceled with the stroke of a pen.
The projects are less important than the people, particularly people who have invested years in developing their careers and selecting an area on which to focus. People need predictability — not in the research ideas they pursue, but in basic human issues like pay and employment.
It may be possible to restart projects with private funds, but that is by no means certain. Raising philanthropic dollars can be as hard and time-consuming as raising money from the NIH. And these projects will have to be set up with duplicate equipment in geographically separate areas.
Sadly, great people will abandon promising projects. Great people will leave basic research and move to more predictable pastures. And some great young people will decide not to go into research careers at all. The precipitous shift in the legal and regulatory environment for human embryonic stem-cell work will have adverse implications for years to come.
Unpredictability inflicts a heavy cost on scientific progress, whether in domains like stem-cell research or in searching for safe alternative fuels. It damages the country’s competitive position because great projects won’t be completed in the U.S., and, more importantly, great people won’t do the kind of work that is necessary to make progress on our most intractable challenges.
Society pays a high price for randomization of research support — a fact that, sadly, is not recognized by the public, the media, or politicians.

William A. Sahlman is senior associate dean for external relations at Harvard Business School.

Editorial

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Opinion

WestMass at 50: Still a Regional Asset

For some time now, those round-number anniversaries, especially the ones with names involving precious metals or gems, have become appropriate times to pause and reflect on whatever or whomever is celebrating that anniversary.
And so it is with the WestMass Area Development Corp., which marked 50 years of existence this past spring, and is making note of that milestone at ceremonies in October. Most people in the area and its business community would not have guessed that this organization is that old — it has made most of its headlines and impact in the past 25 to 30 years — but that is the reality.
It started in business as the Springfield Area Development Corp., and most of its early projects involved the City of Homes and bringing new economic-development opportunities to a city that hadn’t seen any in some time. The thought process at the time was that a nonprofit organization was needed to promote development by aggregating land, making it ready for building, and then patiently filling the space created with businesses that were appropriate for the community in question and would bring needed jobs and tax revenue.
The thinking was that a nonprofit group would be more willing to take on projects with certain degrees of risk, and that it would be more patient and prudent with regard to how this space was filled. And a half-century later, one could easily argue that those who conceived of this organization were correct in their thinking. The evidence can be found in Springfield, Agawam, East Longmeadow, Westfield, and other communities, where the landscape has literally been changed because of WestMass.
Nothing has come very easily for WestMass, but over the years, its track record has shown that it has indeed taken on some projects that the private development community would have passed on. In so doing, the region has several industrial parks that might otherwise have become large subdivisions or, worse, still be undeveloped, idle land.
WestMass has drawn some criticism over the years for not being more willing to take on difficult brownfield projects, such as the Uniroyal complex in Chicopee; for the painfully slow rate of progress in the Chicopee River Business Park; and for appropriating large tracts of the region’s precious developable land for massive distribution facilities that provide generally low-paying jobs — and not as many of them as they did in years past. Meanwhile, it’s been argued that too much of this region’s time and energy, economic-development wise, has gone toward filling WestMass and Westover Metropolitan Development Corp. industrial parks, when there are many other priorities in area cities and towns.
By and large, however, WestMass, like Westover, has been, and continues to be, a very valuable asset for the region. It is suffering mightily through this recession, as it has the past several, including the recession of the late ’80s, when it was forced to declare bankruptcy, but when the skies clear and the huge inventory of existing manufacturing and distribution space is depleted, WestMass properties will play a key role in attracting new businesses and retaining existing ones that need space to grow.
Looking down the road, we are reminded of something that Allan Blair, executive director of the Economic Development Council of Western Mass., has said often — that when it comes to economic development, all the easy projects have been done. Everything now is logistically challenging, and the degree of difficulty will only increase over the coming years and decades.
To thrive in such a challenging environment, this region and its economic-development leaders will have to be bold, imaginative, and persistent. These are the qualities that have marked WestMass since the beginning, and we hope they will see the organization through at least another half-century of service.

Building Permits

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of September 2010.

AGAWAM

Marcell Welton
44 Annable St.
$3,775 — 12’x18’ New England Cape storage building

CHICOPEE

Campanelli Chicopee II, LLC
21 Taxiway Dr.
$1,765,000 — Construct a 31,000-square-foot warehouse

Chicopee Housing Authority
400 Britton St.
$76,000 — Remove old generators and replace with new

GREENFIELD

Gary L. Schaefer
76 School St.
$6,300 — Install new rubber roof

YMCA
451 Main St.
$232,000 — Construction of a spa addition and other renovations

Pushkin, LLC
332 Main St.
$29,000 — Installation of a sprinkler system

United Arc of Franklin & Ham Inc.
111 Summer St.
$2,000 — Install two doors

HADLEY

CBR Realty Corporation
195 Russell St.
$5,000 — Office build out on the second floor

Town of Hadley School Department
131 Russell St.
$11,000 — Replacement of acoustical ceiling tile in cafeteria

HOLYOKE

Holyoke Health Center
230-234 Maple St.
$108,000 — Tenant fit-out of existing space

Holyoke Mall Company, LLP
50 Holyoke St.
$72,000 — Remodel existing Express store

KMART Corporation
2201-2211 Northampton St.
$328,000 — Construction of a new Taco Bell restaurant

O’C Ingleside, LLC
361 Whitney Ave.
$38,000 — Install finishes to existing space

LUDLOW

SMD Properties
90 Center St.
$8,000 — New siding

NORTHAMPTON

Coolidge Northampton, LLC
243 King St.
$9,300 — Construct interior partitions in Suite 239

F. L. Roberts & Company
188 North King St.
$7,500 — New façade

Florence Congregational Church
130 Pine St.
$7,300 — Construct partition wall to create large room

Thornes Marketplace LLC
150 Main St.
$21,000 — Renovate Rao’s Coffee Shop

SOUTH HADLEY

Loomis Community
7 Ivy Lane
$3,500 — Install insulation

SPRINGFIELD

City of Springfield
70 Tapley St.
$96,000 — Renovations on 1st floor

3640 Main St., LLC
3640 Main St.
$188,000 — Office fit up for Valley Medical Associates

3640 Main St., LLC
3640 Main St.
$561,000 — Office fit up for Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition

United House of Prayer
339 Wilbraham Road
$141,000 — Replace roofing and general maintenance

WESTFIELD

Mark Armanti
8 Turnpike Industrial Road
$385,000 – Construct new manufacturing building for cold storage

NEHTS
101 Springdale Road
$26,000 — Renovations

Samaritan Inn
7 Free St.
$18,000 — Re-roof

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Houston Enterprise
91 Riverdale St.
$209,000 — Remodel existing KFC restaurant

Oleg Abramettzer
553 Main St.
$5,000 — Renovate existing office space for hair salon

SBA Communications, Inc.
63 Bridge St.
$20,000 — Install three antennas and two communications cabinets

Bankruptcies

By BusinessWest Staff September 27, 2010

Bankruptcies Departments

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

Ali, Hassan R.
115 Bellevue Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Alicea, Patricia
10 Willow St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Arbuzov, Tamara L.
21 Nassau St., 2nd Floor
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Bargalla, Thomas M.
21 Cottonwood Lane
Springfield, MA 01128
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Barrus, Alan
Barrus, Norma
1467 Barre Road
Gilbertville, MA 01031
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Beaudoin Group Ltd.
Beaudoin, Lawrence A.
Beaudoin, Julie C.
P.O. Box 1473
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Beaulieu, Michael G.
217 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Bednarzyk, William
29 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/17/10

Berthiaume, Rita C.
95 North Westfield St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Bissonnette, Jon N.
Bissonnette, Tabitha N.
75 Ashgrove St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Boudreau, Edmund A.
Boudreau, Coleen A.
316 White Pond Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Britton, Bruce S.
Britton, Jessica A.
913 Shaker Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Camilleri, Richard P.
P.O. Box 334
Holyoke, MA 01041
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Carr, Tiffany M.
145 Harvard St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Chandler, Robert L.
372 Crescent St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Chartier, Julie
59 Reed St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Chilson, Phillip E.
P.O.Box 48
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Christopher, Kathryn A.
a/k/a Wilkens, Kathryn A.
P.O.Box 2752
Amherst, MA 01004-2752
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Claffey, Mary R.
20 Cross St. Unit D
Pepperell, MA 01463
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Clapper, Ann M.
7 Grant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/25/10

Claudio, Dorcas
356 Allenpark Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/17/10

Cone, Kate A.
a/k/a Flanagan, Kate
a/k/a Guthrie, Kate
3 Newton St.
P. O. Box 84
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Cotto, Jaime
a/k/a Cortez-Cotto, Jaime
42 Thames St.
Springfield, MA 01005
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/29/10

Coville, Diana M.
100 Stafford Holland Road
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Coyer, Nicole L.
a/k/a Charette, Nicole L.
52 Howard St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/25/10

Croteau, Linda Y.
30 Higgins Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/31/10

Davis Construction
Davis, Thomas R.
13 Onondaga St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/23/10

DeJesus, Beverly M.
161 Main St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Dion, Kathy A.
96 St. James Circle
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Dixon, Virginia L.
14 Herbert Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Dominick, Arthur R.
Dominick, Judith
50 Holy Family Road, Apt. 119E
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/31/10

Dubilo, Adam J.
Dubilo, Jennifer
Gamache Dubilo, Jennifer E.
7 East Circle Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/10

Dubuc, David A.
7 Spring St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/29/10

Dyer, Samuel R.
P.O. Box 362
Westfield, MA 01086
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/21/10

Enright, Robert D.
Enright, Elaine F.
45 Burke Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Erickson, Thomas A.
1343 Riverdale St. #56
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Fontaine, Gary E.
43 Bray Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

George, Helen S.
1384 Barre Road
Gilbertville, MA 01031
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Gravel, Richard A.
3 North Hampshire St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Grise, Christina A.
391 Main St., Apt. 301
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/17/10

Hall, John J.
Hall, Linda L.
8 Revere Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/25/10

Hall, Noel E.
299 Nottingham St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Hall-Cotto, Jennifer M.
17 Liswell Dr.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/29/10

Harris, Margaret I.
15 Buel St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/17/10

Hebert, Paul D.
Hebert, Angela M.
120 Glendale Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Hegy, Michael D.
29 Baltimore Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Helenek, James J.
Helenek, April M.
124 State St.
Shelburne Falls, MA 01370
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Howard, Dawn I
a/k/a Ford, Dawn I
40 Briarwood Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Hyde, William D.
Hyde, Judith A.
235 Main St.
PO Box 267
Gilbertville, MA 01031
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/10

Karlik, Gregory M.
Karlik, Heather J.
340 Broadway
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/28/10

Keenan, James M.
Keenan, Nancy E.
6 Hawthorne Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Knowles, Michael T.
226 Pearl St., 2R
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Kuschka, Aaron T.
Carey, Mary Ellen
212 Prospect St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Laboy, Juan A.
a/k/a Flores, Juan L.
a/k/a Laboy, Juan A
Laboy, Isabel E.
a/k/a Laboy, Sanchez Isabel
36 Greenleaves Dr. #46
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/16/10

LaPerle, Donna D.
a/k/a Melhorn, Donna D.
79 Dana St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Latour, Stephanie A.
a/k/a Pooler, Stephanie A.
50 Hazen St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/17/10

Laverty, Jason M.
20 Woronoco Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Lawrence, Beverly A.
PO Box 406
Barre, MA 01074
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/10

Lewis, George E.
Lewis, Marilyn E
151 West King St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Lopez, Jose J.
Pinto, Julia
a/k/a Pinto-Lopez, Julia
76 Ardmore St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/25/10

Malvezzi, Gina
20 Hampton Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Manfredi, Theresa H.
a/k/a Goodrow, Theresa
332 Lancaster Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/17/10

Martinez, Julia
31 Emily St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

McNierney, Sandra L.
a/k/a Dupuis, Sandra L.
a/k/a Bushey, Sandra
35 Scenic Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/23/10

Mendrala, John M.
Mendrala, Donna
603 Springfield St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Munro, Stephen P.
Munro, Beverly A.
9 Devils Lane
Brimfield, MA 01010
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Must Love Dogs,
Abbruzzese, Cathy A.
338 Mayo Road
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/20/10

O’Rourke, Shannon L.
83 Bell St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/16/10

Page, Denise M.
30 Higgins Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/31/10

Parks Enterprise
Parks, Doreen M.
7 Chestnut St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Pate, Susan M.
43 Bray Park Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Peterson, Jean M.
PO Box 1214
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/21/10

Petrizzi, Robert Charles
810 Fairway Ave.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Picard, Kevin E.
Picard, Barbara J.
96 McKinley Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Pilon, Donald
144 Cabot St., Apt. 10
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Profio, Richard A.
507 Sunderland Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Ramos, Sue Ellen
323 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/31/10

Romano, Anthony G.
120 Elizabeth Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Roth, Dorothy W.
15C Highland Village
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Santiago, Maritza
102 Santa Barbara St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Scalise, Joseph P.
32 Charlemont Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/31/10

Schmidt, Mark A.
114 Franklin St
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Schultz, Steven David
1118 St James Ave. G28
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Shattuck, Chester R.
Shattuck, Jean M.
28 Gula Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Sibley, Louis F.
Sibley, Elaine M.
14 Gould Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/25/10

Sierra, Victor Armando
134 Union St. Apt. 49
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Skawski, Thomas P.
Skawski, Kristen M
356 Belmont Ave. Apt. 24
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Skillings, Anne Haskell
84 Cross Brook
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Superior Floor Covering
Wood, Jason P.
2275 Palmer Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Tanguay, Marie A.
172 Colemore St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Threlfall, Robert Jason
28R Fairfield Ave.
Haydenville, MA 01039
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/23/10

Tobin, Kyle E.
Tobin, Shawna E.
a/k/a Diemand, Shawna
247 Ryan Road
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/18/10

Toczko, Gregory P.
162 Nash Rd
Cummington, MA 01026
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Torres, Adilmar E.
136 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Touponce, Carol E.
44A Russell St.
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/30/10

Tramore Chip Shop
Quaglia, Gabriel
Quaglia, Sara K.
13 Harrison Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/20/10

Varady, Kathleen
5 Alice St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Vardakis, Christopher D.
Vardakis, Karen F.
28 School St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Vega, Wanda L.
69 Longhill St., Apt.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Walton, Nelson F.
52 Boucher Circle
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Warzocha, Robert R.
150 Ashland St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/31/10

Williford, Karen Ann
P.O. Box 103
Huntington, MA 01050
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/27/10

Witek, Linda J.
27 Meadow Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/24/10

Woolley, Mason K.
18 Main St., Apt. 3C
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/19/10

Wright, Richard T.
Wright, Carol A.
17 Shepard St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/26/10

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Departments

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

CHICOPEE
DISTRICT COURT
Debra A. Wajda v. Price Rite
Allegation: Negligence, causing slip and fall: $20,194.55
Filed: 8/25/10

FRANKLIN
SUPERIOR COURT
Mandy Boutell v. The Maple Valley School Inc. and Windwood Meadow Inc.
Allegation: Employment discrimination by failing to accommodate a disabled person and handicap discrimination: $25,000+
Filed: 8/20/10

HAMPDEN
SUPERIOR COURT
Caroline Dauplaise v. Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Allegation: Wrongful discharge of employment with Mass Turnpike Authority and breach of contract: $100,000
Filed: 7/27/10

Farm Credit East v. Rocky Mountain Wood Co. Inc.
Allegation: Action to recover on promissory note by sale of collateral: $894,254.26
Filed: 7/26/10

Immi Turbines Inc. v. LDH Inc.
Allegation: Texas court default judgment on underlying claims: $596,918.48
Filed: 7/22/10

John’s Trucking of Agawam v. Shawn’s Lawn Inc., RIV Construction Group Inc., and HD Westfield, MA Landlord Inc.
Allegation: Failure to pay under the terms of a construction agreement: $561,827.23
Filed: 7/26/10

Lizbeth Rosario, administratrix of the estate of Carmen Velazquez v. Mercy Hospital
Allegation: Negligence and failure to properly diagnose, causing death: $2 million
Filed: 7/27/10

HAMPSHIRE
SUPERIOR COURT
Galex Inc. v. Precision Metal Goods
Allegation: Non-payment on aluminum purchased and received: $1,113,286
Filed: 8/20/10

Jack Ernst v. Berkshire Electric Cable Co.
Allegation: Breach of contract and non-payment on two promissory notes: $136,346.07
Filed: 8/16/10

Sona Dolan v. Holyoke Community College
Allegation: Employment discrimination and civil-rights violation based on national origin: $150,000
Filed: 8/2/10

TR’s Excavating and Landscaping Construction v. Landmark Health Solutions, LLC and Northampton Care Center, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of services, labor, and materials: $43,700
Filed: 7/23/10

SPRINGFIELD
DISTRICT COURT
Bradco Supply v. Edward M. Casti Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $6,653.97
Filed: 7/22/10

Bradco Supply v. RPE Contracting Corp. Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $12,473.69
Filed: 7/28/10

Comcast Spotlight Inc. v. Beverly Golf & Tennis Club
Allegation: Non-payment of advertising services rendered: $2,234.45
Filed: 7/28/10

O’Connell & Plumb, P.C. v. Kushner Realty Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of attorney fees and services: $33,598.03
Filed: 7/20/10

WESTFIELD
DISTRICT COURT
Mountainview Concrete Foundations, LLC v. W & I Construction Inc.
Allegation: Failure to pay for services on construction project: $4,942
Filed: 8/23/10

Chamber corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Departments

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

n Sept. 15: ACCGS After 5, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by the Springfield Marriott. Cost for members is $10, non-members, $20.

n Sept. 23: Feast in the East-ERC, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by: Elmcrest Country Club. Cost: $25 per person. Call the chamber for more information.

Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield
www.springfieldyps.com

n Sept. 15: 17th Annual United Way Day of Caring. This event pairs volunteers with agency service providers to accomplish a variety of projects. YPS will again pair up with the Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity and work on one of the homes currently under construction in Springfield. If interested in joining, e-mail Maureen Picknally at [email protected]

n Sept. 16: Third Thursday, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Hosted by Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. This event is free for YPS members, and $5 for non-members.

Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce
www.amherstarea.com

Chicopee Chamber of Commerce
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

n Sept. 21: 13th Annual Table Top Showcase and business networking event, 4:30 to 7 p.m., Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Presented by the Chicopee, Greater Holyoke, and Greater Westfield chambers of commerce. Call the chambers for more information.

Franklin County Chamber of Commerce
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

n Sept. 24: Breakfast Series – United Way Program, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Hosted by Franklin County Technical School, Turners Falls. Call the chamber for more information.

n Sept. 25 and 26: Fiber Twist, an Annual Celebration of All Things Fiber in Franklin County,
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. No admission charge. For details, visit www.fibertwist.com

Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

n Sept. 8: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by the Apollo Grill. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for non-members.

n Oct. 1: Casino Night, 7 p.m. to 11 p.m, at One Cottage St., Easthampton. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org

Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

n Sept. 15: Holyoke Chamber Clambake, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., Holyoke Country Club. Tickets are $26. Call the chamber to reserve tickets.

n Sept. 21: The 13th Annual Table Top Showcase, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Hosted by the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Call the chamber for more information or to reserve tickets.

n Sept. 22: 2010 Pacesetter Awards Recognition Breakfast, starting at 7:30 a.m. Hosted by the Delaney House. The Pacesetter Awards go to exceptional small businesses and nonprofit agencies, entrepreneurs, and those advocates who make other businesses successful. Tickets are $18. Please call the chamber for more information or to reserve tickets.

Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

Northampton Area Young Professional Society
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900

n Sept. 17: NAYP Dynamics of Fleet Safety Seminar, 8 to 10 a.m., Union Station. Safety supervisors and fleet managers from all industries will benefit from this important presentation, led by Gerry Sousa, executive director of the National Safety Council’s Western New England Chapter. Participants will identify the daily challenges of running an effective fleet and learn the essential elements of a fleet safety program. Best practices for motor-vehicle safety, collision prevention, and asset use will be discussed.

n Sept. 21: Meet & Eat, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Clarion Hotel and Conference Center. Tickets are $15 for members, $20 for guests.

Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce
www.qvcc.biz
(413) 283-2418

South Hadley/Granby Chamber of Commerce
www.shchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

Three Rivers Chamber of Commerce
www.threeriverschamber.org
(413) 283-6425

Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

n Sept. 21: “Rake in The Business” TableTop Expo, 4:30 to 7 p.m., Castle of Knights, Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Presented by the Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce. Call the chambers for more information.

n Sept. 24: Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce 104th Air Fighter Annual Breakfast, 7:15 to 9 a.m. Hosted by the 104th Air Fighter, Barnes Airport, 175 Falcon Dr., Westfield. Guest Speaker: Ira Bryck, director of UMass Family Business Center. Tickets are $20 for members, $25 for non-members. Call the chamber for more information.

Briefcase

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Departments

Workers Paying 14% More for Health Insurance
WASHINGTON — American workers will pay about $4,000 to get health insurance for their families through work this year, 14% more than in 2009, according to a survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Employees’ average share of the premium costs for family coverage is $482 more than last year as economic conditions continue to push companies to pay less of the bill, the report said. Total premiums for family policies, including both worker and employer contributions, increased 3% to $13,770. “Businesses have been shifting more of the costs of health insurance to workers through premiums, deductibles, and other cost-sharing,” said Drew Altman, Kaiser Family Foundation chief executive. “From a consumer perspective, the cost of health insurance just keeps going up faster than wages.”

Executives Plan Moderate Hike in Professional Hiring
MENLO PARK, Calif. — Looking toward the final months of the year, 11% of executives interviewed for the Robert Half Professional Employment Report said they expect to increase the number of full-time staff they employ in professional occupations in the fourth quarter. Another 5% anticipate declines, resulting in a net 6% increase in hiring activity, up three points from the third-quarter forecast. Executives’ business optimism level remains high: 86% of respondents expressed at least some confidence in the growth prospects for their companies, rising slightly from 85% reported in the third-quarter survey. The number of executives citing recruiting challenges also rose, climbing from 42% in the third quarter to 47%. The Robert Half Professional Employment Report is the first quarterly executive survey of its size and scope to focus exclusively on professional-level hiring. The survey is based on telephone interviews with more than 4,000 executives from a variety of fields throughout the U.S. about their hiring plans and general level of optimism regarding the upcoming quarter. “Companies that overextended their teams are now selectively adding full-time employees,” said Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of Robert Half International. “Businesses are hiring to keep service levels high and boost morale among team members who have taken on extra work in the past few years.”

Economy Needs More Than Modest Spending
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis recently released personal income and outlays for July. Personal income increased 0.2% in July, similar to private-sector expectations, while real disposable income decreased 0.1%. Real personal consumption expenditures increased 0.2% in July and at a 1.3% annual rate from their second-quarter average. Consumer spending adjusted for inflation continues to increase at a moderate pace, according to U.S. Commerce Under Secretary for Economic Affairs Rebecca Blank. She noted that data suggests the economy continues to grow, as consumer spending accounts for 70% of GDP, although the economy is growing at a slower pace than the Obama administration would like. On a related note, many economists, including those at PNC Financial Services Group, say a boost in salaries and jobs will help grow the economy.

Businesses Offered Customer-service Training
GREENFIELD — The Greenfield Business Assoc. (GBA) and the Greenfield Community College (GCC) Workforce Development Office are coordinating customer-service trainings for local business owners and their staff members this fall. The cost is free to GBA-member owners/managers and is on a scale for the number of staff per business attending. For businesses with one to five staff members participating in training, the cost is $10 each; for six to 11 staff, $7.50 each; and for 12 or more employees, the cost is $5 each. For non-member pricing, call (413) 774-2791. The owner/manager training is slated for Sept. 27 from 8 to 10 a.m. at the GCC Downtown Center, room 121. The frontline staff training is planned for Oct. 4 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the GCC Downtown Center, room 121. Business owners can reserve space by e-mailing [email protected] with the names of the person(s) attending and the business they are representing.

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Departments

UMass Amherst Sees Largest First-year Class
AMHERST — An academically outstanding group of first-year students and the largest-ever class to enter the UMass Amherst has been welcomed to the campus, according to Chancellor Robert C. Holub. The Class of 2014, numbering approximately 4,500 students, was selected from a record 31,000 applicants. Maintaining its commitment to state residents, the university expects total enrollment of in-state students to increase slightly, totaling more than 16,000. Meanwhile, a larger number of out-of-state students, which has gone from 800 to 1,150, constitutes about one-fourth of the entering class. The academic profile of the incoming class is strong, about the same as last year with SAT scores of 1167 and a high school GPA of 3.61, added Holub. The demographic characteristics of the entering class are similar to last year. The percentage of African, Latino, Asian/Pacific Islander, and Native American students is 21%, and women make up slightly more than half of the class.

AIC Sees Growth Spurt
SPRINGFIELD — The first decade of the new millennium was a period of growth at American International College, and with the arrival of the Class of 2014, it looks like the growth spurt is continuing into the new decade, according to AIC President Vince M. Maniaci. He noted that, for the fifth consecutive year, overall undergraduate enrollment is at an all-time high for the institution. Since 2001, undergraduate enrollment has nearly doubled, and under Maniaci, the graduate enrollment figures have increased from fewer than 300 students to more than 1,600. Peter J. Miller, vice president of admission services, added that the Class of 2014 will come from 24 states and 10 countries including Canada, China, Afghanistan, England, Nigeria, Ghana, St. Lucia, Bermuda, Sweden, Japan, and Vietnam. Miller noted that nursing is the most popular major among the incoming freshmen.

Laboratory Receives Accreditation
WARE — Baystate Mary Lane Hospital, a member of Baystate Health, has been awarded reaccreditation by the Commission on Laboratory Accreditation of the College of American Pathologists (CAP), based on the results of a recent on-site inspection. The CAP Laboratory Accreditation Program is recognized by the federal government as being equal to or more stringent than the government’s own inspection program. The CAP is an advocate for high-quality and cost-effective medical care. The stringent inspection program is designed to ensure the highest standard of care for the laboratory’s patients, according to John Olinski, laboratory supervisor. Mary Lane’s lab currently processes more than 240,000 tests per year.

Balise Supports Glendi Festival Raffle
SPRINGFIELD — Balise Motor Sales contimued its strong support of the Glendi festival this year, sponsoring the grand prize of the event’s raffle, a vintage 1968 red Chevy Impala convertible. Proceeds from the raffle benefit scholarships and church programs of St. George Greek Orthodox Cathedral of Western Massachusetts. The Glendi Festival was staged September 10-12 on the church grounds on Main Street in Springfield.

Realtor Receives Green Designation
LONGMEADOW — Brenda Flower, a sales associate in the local Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office, has been awarded the National Assoc. of Realtors (NAR) Green Designation, the only green professional real-estate designation recognized by NAR. The designation provides Realtors with comprehensive knowledge about green homes and buildings and issues of sustainability in relation to real estate. As part of the course, Flower was trained in understanding what makes a property green, how to help clients evaluate the costs and benefits of green-building features and practices, and how to distinguish between industry rating and classification systems. Additionally, Flower received training on financial grants and incentives that are available to homeowners seeking an eco-friendly living environment.

Games2U Entertainment Franchise Enters Area
SPRINGFIELD — Games2U Entertainment, a state-of-the-art game theater and entertainment franchise, is bringing futuristic parties to homes, companies, and schools, according to Paul Jenney, who has launched a franchise in New England. Games2U features video games, laser tag, hamster balls, and more, delivered to the door of the party location. Jenney noted the franchise offers everyone the chance to have a “rock-star” party at an affordable price. Trained game coaches oversee the entire experience and manage each Games2U party throughout the event, allowing parents and event coordinators the chance to relax and enjoy the party, added Jenney. For more information, visit www.g2u.com.

$1M Grant to Enhance History Education
WESTFIELD — A $1 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education will help area school districts improve history teaching in grades 7 through 12 with innovative programs and new technology. The Center for Teacher Education and Research at Westfield State University collaborated with the Gateway Regional School District, the lead school district, to acquire the grant. The other participating public school districts are Chicopee, Hampshire Regional, Pittsfield, Westfield, and West Springfield. Also included in the grant program are the Amherst-based Veteran’s Education Project, the Westfield Athenaeum, and the History Department at Westfield State, along with the Historical Journal of Massachusetts, which is published by the university. The grant, titled “Memorializing Promise and Conflict: A Monumental History of American Democracy,” is part of the federal Teaching American History (TAH) program. The TAH grants program seeks to increase teacher content knowledge in American history, develop historical thinking skills, and develop strategies and skills in implementing content into the classroom. Funded projects for the teachers will include travel, book discussions, and work with the Historical Journal of Massachusetts.

MassMutual Earns Top Rating from Research Group
SPRINGFIELD — In Boston Research Group’s recently released 2010 DCP Retirement Advisor Satisfaction and Loyalty Study, MassMutual’s Retirement Services Division ranked first overall among all providers in eight key categories important to adviser satisfaction. Advisers rated MassMutual number one in “offers competitive advantages,” scoring 21 points higher than the industry average and seven points higher than the nearest competitor. Notably, compared to the norm, advisers who work with MassMutual have 42% more plans in force, have 54% more defined-contribution-plan assets under management, and have sold more than twice as many plans in the past two years, indicating that advisers who are heavily focused on the institutional retirement-plan market have identified MassMutual as a provider of choice. The nationwide survey of 649 retirement advisers was conducted from February to April 2010 and represents 20 defined-contribution retirement-plan providers. MassMutual was also ranked first by advisers among all providers surveyed for: wholesaler partners for success, participant education program, Internet capabilities for plan sponsors, Internet capabilities for participants, participant statement, seminar assistance, and product education for the adviser. Boston Research Group is a strategic market-research and consulting firm that specializes in the financial-services industry.

EDITORIAL

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Opinion

Green: the Color, and Direction, of Progress

Even casual readers of BusinessWest would notice that a growing number of pages in this magazine are being devoted to all matters ‘green.’
Several months ago, we put out something called the ‘Green Issue.’ Yes, the cover was green (actually, several shades of it), and most all stories inside had a green tinge to them. This issue, Sean Anderson, assistant vice president of Facilities and director of Corporate Green Initiatives at MassMutual, graces the cover. He’s standing within a huge solar-power installation that sits on a one-acre section of roof at the company’s 1.4 million-square-foot headquarters building on State Street in Springfield.
In addition to the MassMutual story, which is about much more than solar power, there is another piece about the many ways in which area colleges are going green, and also the people who are heading these efforts: ‘green czars,’ if you will.
All this focus on green is not by accident; it’s by design — literally and figuratively — to show how green, or sustainability, has become part of the fabric of the region and its business community.
As we’ve said many times, our broad goal at BusinessWest is to essentially hold a mirror to this region’s business community, and try to articulate what appears in that glass. Increasingly, that mirror is reflecting businesses, institutions, and individuals working to do what is environmentally responsible and what also makes good common sense when it comes to running a business.
And in the process, these companies, institutions, and people are laying some track for what could be a dynamic new business sector, or cluster, that could create needed diversification for our region, and also more jobs.
Over the past several months, we’re published several green stories — from PeoplesBank’s building of a LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified branch in Springfield to FloDesign’s efforts to reshape wind power with a radically new turbine design; from hospitals doing what they can to reduce their sizable carbon footprints to a new company trying to introduce this region to geothermal energy; from the new planned high-performance computing center in Holyoke to the YWCA’s efforts to incorporate green design into its new facilities.
The sum of all these stories amounts to a movement, one that has a number of potential benefits for the region and the planet as a whole. First, we’ll start with the ‘doing the right thing’ aspect of this work. From colleges encouraging students to turn out the lights in their dorm rooms when they’re not in use to MassMutual employing new technology to shut down vending machines when the area they are inactive, action is being taken to conserve energy and ultimately use less of it, which will benefit everyone in the long run.
In the meantime, these steps and countless others are not merely saving businesses and institutions money (in most cases), they are also making them competitive at a time when competition is coming from everywhere and it’s intensifying constantly. This is critically important because, in addition to attracting new jobs, the region needs to retain those that it has, and making companies more competitive is one way to help do that.
Also, when companies and institutions go green, they are helping to build another source of jobs and economic stability for Western Mass. Indeed, green is not merely a trend or a movement, or something for this business journal to write about. It is an economic sector that holds great promise in this region.
To make a long story short, we’re going to keep holding up that mirror, and we’re sure it’s going to yield many more stories about how green is working its way into the local vocabulary.
And that will certainly be a reflection of progress — on a number of levels.

INCORPORATIONS

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Departments

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

BELCHERTOWN

Kac’s Corp., 67 Russell Ave., Belchertown, MA 01007. Katherine Currier, 67 Dressel Ave., Belchertwon, MA 01007. Travel writing.

BRIMFIELD

M.K. Fuel Inc., 4 Sturbridge Route 20 and Route 19. Brimfield, MA 01010. Anwar Afrede, 286 Middle Haddam Road, Portland, CT 06480. Gas station and convenience store.

CHICOPEE

Mick Euclid Corp., 27 Washington St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Michael Methe, same. Transportation services.

Szlachetka Dubay, P.C. 10 Center St., Suite 200, Chicopee, MA 01013. Stanley Szlachetka, 66 Airport Hill Lane, West Springfield, MA 01089. General law practice.

DEERFIELD

S.R. Marketing Services Inc., 81 Old Main St., Deerfield, MA 01342. William Moncrief, 2310 Central Ave., North Wildwood, N.J. 08260. Marketing and promotional services.

FEEDING HILLS

Organic Change Inc., 368 North St., Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Josephine Ann Smith, 346 Rowley St., Agawam, MA 01001. Non-profit organization established exclusively for educational purposes.

FLORENCE

Michael Kayne’s Family Restaurant, LTD, 176 Pine St., Florence, MA 01062. Kerry Ann Avezzie, 32 Berkshire Ave, Southwick, MA 01077. Family restaurant.

HOLYOKE

Ken’s Auto Sales Inc., 921 Main St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Michael Cashman, 36 Indian Ridge Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Auto sales.

LENOX

Pilson Communications Inc., 25-B Main St., Lenox, MA 01240. Neal Pilson, same. Consultation services.

NORTHAMPTON

Pioneer Ecovalley Inc., 42 Day Ave., Northampton, MA 01060. Danielle McKahn, same. Organization established to promote environmental sustainability in the Pioneer Valley region.

Primary Care Foundation Inc., 378 Pleasant St., Northampton, MA 01060. Joyce Miga, same. Primary health care private practice.

SPRINGFIELD

Ianello & Brittain, P.C., 55 State St., Suite 201, Springfield, MA 01103. Richard Ianello, 17 Woodside Dr., Longmeadow, MA 01106. Law practice.

Osaka Japanese Hibachi Steak House Inc., 1380 Boston Road, Springfield, MA 01119. Wai Tin Cheng, same. Restaurant.

Project Progress Inc., 137 Barre St., Springfield, MA 01119. Nadhir Abdul-Wadud, same. Non-profit youth mentoring organization.

Samson Pharmaceuticals Inc., 52 Mulberry St., Springfield, MA 01105. Sherman Fein, 224 Longmeadow, St., Longmeadow, MA 01106. Pharmaceuticals.

Shephard Security Corp., 191 Chestnut St., Suite 2C, Springfield, MA 01103. Dennis Cote, 55 Dearborn St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Commercial security.

Sr. Williams Resource and Development Center Inc., 132 Florence St., Springfield, MA 01105. Steven Williams Sr., 141 Florence St., Springfield, MA 01105. Non-profit organization for the purpose of making distributions to organizations that qualify as tax- exempt organizations.

St. Germain Investment Management Inc., 1500 Main St., Springfield, MA 01115. Michael Matty, same. Investment management services.

St. Germain Securities Inc., 1500 Main St., Springfield, MA 01115. Michael Matty, same. Broker-dealer transactions.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Sun Air Transport Inc., 57 Amherst St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Sergey Poddubchak, same. Transportation services.

The Car Spa of Western Massachusetts Inc., 115 Stevens St., Springfield, MA 01104. Michael Freedman, 71 Woodsley Road, Longmeadow, MA 01101. Cleaning and detailing of motor vehicles.

The Leather Guy, 149 Bolton St., Springfield, MA 01119. Carlos Arce, same. Automotive finish restoration services.

Opinion

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Opinion

United Way Focuses on the Building Blocks

By DORA ROBINSON
As we look outside our doors, it can be difficult to escape the challenges we face in the region.
Nearly 25% of Springfield families and 37% of Holyoke families with children under age 5 have incomes below the poverty level. Hampden County’s high-school graduation rate is 70.2%, compared to the statewide rate of 81.5%. Specifically, the graduation rate in West Springfield is 66.4%; in Springfield, 54.5%; and in Holyoke, 48.5%. And last year, food pantries in Hampden County served 22% more meals than in the previous year.
While we must face the issues of our community, we do not need to accept them as reality. We can face them with hope, optimism, and courage, knowing that we can make a difference. The United Way of Pioneer Valley is leading that effort. Our focus is on education, income, health, and basic needs — the building blocks for a good quality of life.
Our efforts around income promote financial stability and independence by raising awareness of mechanisms that support income growth, convening stakeholders to strengthen income stability and enhance access to bank accounts and services, increasing volunteerism in support of financial education, and partnering on statewide collaborative efforts to bolster family assets and financial literacy.
To raise the bar on education, we partner with local, regional, and state initiatives that support the educational achievement of all children. We collaborate with the school systems and community providers to raise the high-school graduation rates. We invest in educational programming, like mentoring, summer learning, and family engagement.
And, as the need for emergency food, fuel, and utility assistance increases, we will be there for individuals and families to provide much-needed resources and allocations to provide a hand up for those in need — as we always have.
But it is not solely up to the United Way of Pioneer Valley. We are all part of the community, and we can all be part of the solution. We can all live united. But how? As part of the United Way Live United movement, we are asking people to “Give. Advocate. Volunteer.”
You can give of your time, energy, and talents to create lasting change and improve the lives of all. Your financial contributions can help fund programs that make a difference for poor, low-income and working poor people to have a better life. Many of these are your co-workers, friends, family, and community members.
You can foster a community of hope and opportunity through advocating for change — be it with a neighbor or a legislator. You can give voice to the vulnerable by supporting initiatives that raise awareness to the challenges faced by our homeless and those who may find themselves on the precipice.
You can build a stronger community by serving as a mentor to a young adult. You can empower others with your experiences. You can simply share your wisdom with a child.
We invite you to be part of the change. You can give, you can advocate, and you can volunteer. You can make a difference in the Pioneer Valley, and that’s what it means to live united.

Dora Robinson is president and CEO of United Way of Pioneer Valley.

BANKRUPTCIES

By BusinessWest Staff September 13, 2010

Departments

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

Alvarez, Marta
a/k/a Santiago, Marta
716 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/10

Armstrong, Shirley A.
a/k/a Kelson, Shirley A.
47 Leonard St.
Adams, MA 01220
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Atkins, Ruth E.
414 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Barriga, Tamia C.
a/k/a Deza, Tamia C.
a/k/a Barriga Carvajal, Tamia Catalina
48 Holland Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Beausoleil, Maurice J.
8 Bassett Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/09/10

Beebe, Paul Richard
Beebe, Lindi Ann
1188 Granville Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/11/10

Benton, Benjamin J.
418 Meadow St., Unit D
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Bidwell, Marlene J.
32 Lower Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Bilodeau, Stacy M.
2450 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

Blanchard, Allan W.
Blanchard, Marie E.
220 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Blaser, Donn L.
184 Daniel Shay Highway
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Boothby, Randolph D.
318 West St.
Randolph, MA 02368
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Brisebois, Robert T.
Brisebois, Dawna L.
35 Lyn Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Bristol, John David
17 Chestnut St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Brodeur, Judith S.
24 Holy Cross Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Brodeur, Robert W.
24 Holy Cross Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

C.M. Designs
Carlson, Laurence B.
Carlson, Catherine M.
258 Denver St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Cabana, Sandra Margaret
19 Briggs St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Caron, Luanne M.
87 Valentine Ter.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Carrier, Brenda
3 Oakdale Place
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/10

Caruso, Anthony Patrick
53 Morse St. Apt. 11
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/02/10

Chauvin, Lisa A.
96 Monson Road
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Chu, Norman
a/k/a Chu, Norman Ting Yuk
58 West Main St.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

Coache, Heidi K.
43 Haskins Road
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Collura, John A.
Collura, Rita E.
201 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Colon, Ricardo
Colon, Evelyn
14 Beauchamp St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Corbin, Robert A.
12 Annable St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Covey, Kelly Suzanne
a/k/a Barnett, Kelly Suzanne
80 Damon Road #3302
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Dargie, Gregory J.
47 Broad St., Apt. D49
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

Davis, Amy Beatrice
45 Franklin St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Decker, Juanita L.
42 Hillside Village
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/05/10

DeJesus, Mayra L.
35 Ferry St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Delgado, Sally
73 Cass St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Desrosiers, Christopher G.
Desrosiers, Jill A.
a/k/a Nicholson, Jill A.
18 Genevieve Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Dimino, Julie Kim
a/k/a Kilpatrick, Julie
144 Lincoln St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

DL Painting Service
Chiarella, Joseph
Chiarella, Emilia
63 Bayberry Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Drummey, Brian F.
Drummey, Marcia L.
67 Jacksonville Stage Road
Heath, MA 01339
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/10

Duda, John J.
Duda, Caylah E.
144 Elm St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/10

Dulude, Thomas Eric
Dulude, Jennifer Leigh
61 Granby Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

England-Horsfall, William Leon
England-Horsfall, Diane Lynn
221 Ashland St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Fadel, Youssef G.
Murphy-Fadel, Laurie A.
22 Puffer Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Figuereo, Solkeren
a/k/a Hernandez, Solkeren
11 Rush St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Florek, Jeffrey D.
Florek, Amanda N.
133 Lafayette St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Ford, Maria A.
61 South Monson Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Fowles, Jeffrey A.
Fowles, Linda J.
100 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Frappier, Steven L.
Kober-Frappier, Nancy A.
74 Manchonis Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/05/10

Funk, Lindsay Carin
a/k/a Spencer, Lindsay Carin
12 Armory St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Gallant, Lori Ann
10 Carew St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Garcia, Agustin D.
Garcia, Janet A.
21 Emmerson St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/07/10

Giunta, Anthony
Han-Giunta, Sarah
460 South Main St.
Sheffield, MA 01257
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Goodwin, Mary C.
1105 Boardman St.
Sheffield, MA 01257
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/01/10

Groom, George Harold
Groom, Gina Ann
147 Pineview Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Guernsey, Joan
111 Clover Hill Dr.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/05/10

Hall, Michael T.
Hall, Donna M.
55 Plumb St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Hammon, Scott A.
Hammon, Heather
10 Wheatland Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Hansen, Kim L.
a/k/a McCarthy, Kim L.
22 Wedgewood Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

Harrison, Yolanda
a/k/a Hernandez, Yolanda
a/k/a Rodriquez, Yolanda
a/k/a Bonilla, Yolanda
a/k/a Correa, Yolanda
a/k/a Garcia, Yolanda
693 Main St., #13
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Hawkes, Donald E.
220 Barry St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Hearthside Elderhomes, LLC
Landers, Heidi M.
64 High St. North
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/02/10

Hensel, Melanie R.
Hensel, Victor D.
332 Monston Turnpike
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Herbert, Constance E.
9 Beekham Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/10

Herrick, Guilia Katherine
a/k/a Porter, Guilia Katherine
1079 North Brookfield Road
Oakham, MA 01068
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Holbrook, Beverly J.
123 Thompson St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Horsler, Michael G.
Horsler, Joan
a/k/a Devine, Joan
546 Plainfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

Janocha, Celly
45A Cherry St.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Kearney, Kimberly J.
a/k/a Swegan, Kimberly J.
68 Virginia St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Kennedy, Charles C.
Kennedy, Patricia R.
70 Yorktown Court
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Kennedy, Thomas
144 1/2 North Maple St.
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Kleer Choice Windshield Repair
Graveline, Robert C.
83 Tobacco Farm Road
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Labucki, Tara A.
a/k/a Labuc-Bushee, Tara
105 White St., Apt. #2
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

LaForest, Bernice J.
95 Old State Road
Berkshire, MA 01224
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Langaigne, Frances Ann
419 Montcalm St., Apt.#201
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Lashway, Earl Joseph
Lashway, Dawna Lynn
a/k/a Duford, Dawna L.
86 Bostwick Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/10

Le, Phung M.
PO BOX 81301
Springfield, MA 01138
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Leavitt, Sandra K.
28 Miles Morgan Court # 2
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

LeGrand, Dennis Neal
19 Yorktowne Court
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/02/10

Longey, Graydon M.
30 Argyle Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

Lopez, Armando L.
118 Clifton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Lord, Elise M.
62 Riviera Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

Lucia, Andrew A.
44 Riverview St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

MacDonald, Shirley A.
400 Britton St., Apt. 211
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Mackenchnie, Jeff A.
Mackenchnie, Christine D.
a/k/a Palubinski, Christine D.
25 Fernwood Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

MacMillan, Alan J.
33 Highland Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Maher, Donald R.
Maher, Karen A.
24 Radner St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/11/10

Mason, Norman J.
Mason, Mindy S.
253 Wisdom Way
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/10

Mastalerz, Stacey A.
102 Cote Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

May, Karen J.
P.O. Box 165
North Hatfield, MA 01066
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

McDaniel, Crystal R.
29 Malcolm Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

McFarland, Harriett B.
57 Congress St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

McLaughlin, Irene
McLaughlin, William A.
P.O.Box 344
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

McLean, Michael D.
McLean, Teresa R.
5 Pond St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

McManus, Anne B.
124 Grandview Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Medina, Yulissi D.
10 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Melbourne, Todd Sydney
Melbourne, Tracey Lynn
Watson, Tracey L.
1113 St. James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Mertzic, David Paul
Mertzic, Cindy Wanda
95D. St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/05/10

Metzger, Joseph Michael
Metzger, Stephanie Noel
45 Thompson St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Miller, Richard Bernard
Miller, Laura Finney
a/k/a Finney, Laura Townes
69 Franklin St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/10

Millette, William Joseph
84 Debra Dr., Apt. 3F
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Monteiro, Karl A.
22 Warren Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/31/10

Morgan, Ruth Elizabeth
20 Pomeroy Ter.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/10

Morrison, Jason M.
205 Baldwinville Road
Phillipston, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Motyka, Thomas Edward
Motyka, Denise
167 Carlson Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Nason, Rebecca L.
16 Greenwich Plains Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/08/10

Nault, Steven A.
39 Glendale Ave.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Northeast Metal Company
Kososki, Jeanne Barbara
521 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Ocasio, Roberto
123 Cross Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Odette, Rodney W.
PO Box 73
North Hatfield, MA 01066
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Paquette, Debra G.
a/k/a Fortini, Debra
12 Alice Burke Way #514
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Placanico, Vincent M.
15 Sibley St.
Three Rivers, MA 01080
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Podolak, Nancy J.
172 South Maple St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Popec, Darlene A.
P.O.Box 933
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

Preston, Alice Kate
98 Wellington St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Ramos, Marisol
29 Sunridge Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Ramos, Virgen
101 Lowell St., Apt. 8
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Rankell, Martin S.
95 Scace Brook Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Rivera, Carlos M.
90 Paramount St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Rivera, Carmen Maria
54 High St., #421
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Rivera, Maria M.
70 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Rivest, Jeremy Michael
Rivest, Rebecca Ann
a/k/a Brogan, Rebecca Ann
109 Montgomery Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Rodriguez, Luis A.
33 Wistaria St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Rodriguez, Sonia I.
32 Brentwood St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Romanovicz, Walter J.
Romanovicz, Emily M.
95 Nash St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Rosa, Elizabeth S.
13 Canterbury Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Rose Cottage Antiques
Beer-Rankell, Catherine J.
a/k/a Rankell, Catherine J.
95 Scace Brook Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Roussell, Mathew T.
260 Sanders St.
P.O. Box 283
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Ruiz, Teresa
149 Beacon Circle
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Russo, Thomas
Russo, Tammy M.
112 Fiske Hill Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/05/10

Ryan, Alyssa Anne
11 Whitman St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Ryans, Crystal M.
50 Fox Wood Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Salmond, Charles D.
992 Riceville Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/31/10

Santaniello, Teresa
7 Amherst Ave.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Santiago, Angel A.
296 Oak St., Apt. 3-C
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Santiago, Pablo
P.O.Box 70635
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Schoenfeld, Jerome D.
93 Slater Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Scibelli, Judith A.
379 Springfield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/11/10

Shyer, Robert F.
Shyer, Natalie D.
138 Brickyard Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/15/10

Slysz, Catherine E.
14A Beckwith Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Smigel, Ronald G.
873 Springfield St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/11/10

Solek, Justin R.
9 Chapman St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Stanavage, Robert Allen
57 Lake St.
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/02/10

Stewart, Renee M.
90 Lawton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/06/10

Street, Victor L.
P.O. Box 3725
Springfield, MA 01101
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Stromwall, Steven Edward
172 Garland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Sweeney, James Dennis
Sweeney, Diane Joan
34 Fred Jackson Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/27/10

Swenson, Anthony E.
54 B Russell St.
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Tanguay, Denise A.
82 Redfern Dr.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Taylor, Jennifer
50 Russellville Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

The Griswold Corp.
Depot Village Glass,
Griswold, Susan C.
a/k/a Haecker, Susan C.
34 Pierce St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/04/10

Topulos, Timothy A.
25 Lagadia St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Treanor, Neal J.
81 Millard Road
North Attleboro, MA 02760
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Trierweiler, Bonnie S.
24 Lake Ave.
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/03/10

Uschmann, Edward J.
115 Bretton Rd
W. Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/12/10

Vaudreuil, Cynthia Vedder
13 Clifford Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/11/10

Vives, Carmen
a/k/a Vives-Vidal, Carmen
83 Daley St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/26/10

Wagher, Adam John
6D Thayer St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 08/13/10

Watkins, Connie S.
45 Bryant St., 2nd Fl.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/29/10

Webster, Alan T.
24 Van Horn St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/28/10

Wheelock, Marilyn E.
156 Erin Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Whitman, Mary N.
210 North Orange Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 08/10/10

Wiesenfeld, Audrey L.
39 Walnut St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 07/30/10

Young, Ralph Russell
Young, Patricia Ann
71 Glendale Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 07/30/10