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Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of January 2009.

CHICOPEE

Callaway Golf Ball Operations
425 Meadow St.
$31,000 — Room addition

Chicopee Rest Home
12 Dallaire St.
$27,000 — Roof repair

Padgette Street LLC
140 Padgette St.
$95,000 — Tenant fit-up for office spaces and warehouse area

Service Net
724 McKinstry Ave.
$10,000 — Roof repair

Tabernacle Baptist Church
603 New Ludlow Road
$6,200 — New roof

Valley West School
269 Moore St.
$6,000 — Construct greenhouse

EASTHAMPTON

Autumn Properties, LLC
247-251 Northampton St.
$5,200 — Repair wall and replace siding

Midura & Szostak Dental Offices
5 Campus Lane
$15,300 — Renovate office building

GREENFIELD

A. R. Sandri Inc.
400 Chapman St.
$15,000 — Remove existing shingles from fascia and replace with asphalt

New England Learning Center
479 Main St.
$11,900 — Re-roof

HOLYOKE

701 Kelly Way, LLC
707 Kelly Way
$1,460,000 — Build a 13,214-square-foot pre-engineered metal building

Laundro Max – 556 High Street, LLC
556 High St.
$20,000 — Build foundation only for new retail building

LUDLOW

John Chaves
80 Sroka Lane
$10,000 — Alterations

United Development Group LLD
562 Holyoke St.
$80,000 — Alterations

  

NORTHAMPTON

Central Chambers Realty Trust
16 Center St.
$10,000 — Remove two non-bearing walls and install suspended ceiling

Cooley Dickinson Hospital
30 Locust St.
$36,000 — Interior renovations

Cooley Dickinson Hospital
30 Locust St.
$6,500 — Strip and shingle roof

Lathrop Community Inc.
680 Bridge St.
$237,000 — Reside buildings 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, and16

Mananto Holdings LLP
36 King St.
$6,000 — Erect roof structure

Marianne Dunn
39 Carlon Dr.
$11,000 — Construct six office/room spaces

Smith College
123 Elm St.
$225,000 — Install air conditioning system and replace windows in ground-floor offices

Smith College
17 Prospect St.
$184,000 — Lamont House dining room renovations

SPRINGFIELD

Baystate Medical Center
759 Chestnut St.
$50,000 — Renovate office space

Beacon Company LTD Partnership
401 North Branch Pkwy.
$60,000 — Interior and exterior fire restoration

Northgate LLC
1985 Main St.
$70,000 — Interior commercial remodel

WESTFIELD

KJK Wireless
15 Washington St.
$25,000 — Antenna addition

WEST SPRINGFIELD

DDRM Riverdale Shops, LLC
935 Riverdale St.
$110,000 — Fit out 3,667 square feet of space as dental office

John Richard
54-56 Bridge St.
$128,000 — Restoration of building after fire

A Stimulus Plan: It’s All About Job Creation

By
Opinion

The business news is pretty bleak these days, and on a number of fronts.

There have been scary headlines concerning the restaurant sector, hotels, retail, the auto industry … and just last week came the stunning news that Brandeis University, facing a huge hit to its endowment and calamitous losses from the Madoff scandal, is actually selling the collection in its art museum for more than $300 million.

But the most disturbing news concerns jobs.

Analysts called Jan. 26 “Bloody Monday,” because more than 70,000 jobs were lost on that day alone. Another 11,000 cuts were announced the following Tuesday. Locally, the jobless rate in the Greater Springfield area climbed to 7.2% for the month of December, up a full percentage point from November.

Job losses are critical because when people are out of work — or fear that they soon will be — they become more cautious and conservative in their spending. This leads to reductions in production in factories, the closing of restaurants and hotels, and shrinkage among some major retail chains.

This leads to more layoffs, which puts more people out of work and prompts even more to fear that they may face a similar fate, which leads to reductions in production in factories … you get the idea.

All this underscores why the stimulus plan being discussed on Capitol Hill must create jobs right now, this quarter.

However, some early details about what’s in the plan show that only a small percentage of the money in the package will be spent this year

Specifically, of the $30 billion the House bill allots for highway projects, for example, less than $4 billion would be spent before 2011. And of the $18.5 billion earmarked for renewable energy, less than $3 billion would actually be spent within two years.

While there are widespread questions about the relative worth of any stimulus package of this type, one has to doubt whether one with such delayed action will help stem the tide of job losses — and resulting negative impact on virtually every sector of the economy.

Instead, proceeding with such a package would amount to simply throwing money at the problem, which every analyst has warned against — especially when one considers the sky-high levels of debt the nation is absorbing — and President Obama insists is not the case.

It’s not too late to retool this plan and forestall more of the announcements like the one Mass. Gov. Deval Patrick made recently. He unveiled a $1.1 billion round of emergency budgets — including large reductions in local aid — that will lead to reductions in service, tough times at public colleges and universities at a time when applications to those institutions are soaring, and, most importantly, thousands of layoffs.

As we wrote recently, giving Patrick a check for $2 billion today will do a lot more good than putting $2 billion into a troubled bank that will likely keep it in the vault, or targeting $2 billion for a ‘green’ energy development that won’t put anyone to work for two years, when the recession will presumably be over.

At a time when colleges are selling their art collections to raise cash, drastic steps must be taken to restore confidence, keep people working, and put people laid off on Bloody Monday back to work.

Time is of the essence when it comes to a stimulus package, but it’s more important to get it right than to get it done fast.

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Departments

Horizon Solutions Breaks Ground in Holyoke

HOLYOKE — Horizon Solutions, an electrical/industrial distribution company, recently broke ground for a Northeast regional office at 701 Kelly Way in Holyoke, in the Crossroads Business Park. Formal groundbreaking ceremonies were staged on Jan. 30. The Southampton-based O’Leary Group acquired the property from the O’Connell Development Group, and will build a 12,814-square-foot office and training facility for Horizon Solutions. The newest tenant in Crossroads was formed in 2000 through the merger of Holmes Distributors of Portland, Maine, Oakes Electric of Holyoke, and RERO Distribution Group of Rochester, N.Y. Approximately 25 employees will work at the Holyoke location. The development is the first project within the city’s Chapter 43D Priority Development Site that was designated by the state Legislature a year ago. Chapter 43D guarantees an applicant a decision on permitting reviews within 180 days. The city completed all approvals within 69 days for the project.

College Consulting Firm Launched in State

FEEDING HILLS — Researching and applying to colleges is one of the biggest challenges of a student’s life, and a new business aims to make that process run smoothly. College CoPilot Inc. will offer students and their families a consulting and project-management resource to assist in the areas of test registration, major selection, college choice, application completion, scholarship searching, and campus tours. The same services can also be extended to those finishing community-college programs or students seeking to transfer to a new college. For more information, call (413) 237-3654 or visit www.mycollegecopilot.com. President Cori Rolland notes that spring SAT deadline registration is just around the corner, and colleges need to be chosen to receive the scores. Rolland added that now is the time for high-school juniors to start planning for college.

STCC Receives $1.6M from Labor Department

SPRINGFIELD — Efforts to expand the pool of potential health care employees in Western Mass. will get a boost from a recent federal grant. Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) has received a $1.65 million grant to create a partnership among Western Mass. colleges, medical institutions, community-based organizations, and economic development agencies, with a goal of increasing the number of potential health care workers in the region. The $1,655,957 award was announced recently by the U.S. Department of Labor, as part of the President’s Community-Based Job Training Grants program. STCC was the only Mass. institution selected in this round of the highly-competitive grants program. “If the Western Mass. economy is going to grow, we will need a well trained workforce. This important grant will provide community colleges and community-based institutions with the resources they need to train and educate local workers. I believe this federal assistance will help our region compete in the new global economy,” said Congressman Richard E. Neal. Michael Foss, dean of Health and Patient Simulation at STCC, said, “This is an unprecedented collaboration, and while the primary impact will be in Western Mass., we feel certain this will become a model for the nation.”

The 16 partners in the Community-Based Job Training Grant project are Baystate Health, Berkshire Community College, Berkshire Health System, Berkshire County Regional Employment Board, Franklin/Hampshire County Regional Employment Board, Greenfield Community College, Health Careers Opportunities Project, Holyoke Community College, Holyoke Medical Center, Mason Square Veterans Outreach Center, Mass. AHEC Network (Area Health Education Center), Mercy Medical Center, Regional Employment Board of Hampden County, STCC, Springfield Public Schools, and The World Is Our Classroom. As part of the three-year grant project:

  • Two educational programs will be offered at all four community colleges; one is a half-day, intense medical encounter for high school students; the other is a semester-long Introduction to Patient Skills course, which will promote understanding of what it’s like to work inhealth care.
  • The Springfield Public Schools and the Regional Employment Boards will assist in recruiting students for these experiences.
  • The three partner community colleges will receive approximately $200,000 each to expand their capacity to deliver the patient care experience.
  • One full-time counselor will be hired at each of the colleges They will provide targeted, individual counseling to guide the students into academic programs and careers, as well as follow-up assistance.
  • Counselors from each of the college and hospital partner sites will receive academic advising training from the National Academic Advising Association (NACADA.) High school guidance counselors will also have an opportunity to attend a medical encounter.
  • Funding will also be used to revamp the healthprograms.org Web site that gives information and contacts for health programs at all four Western Mass. community colleges.

OPINION

By
Opinion
Go Green, but Be Smart About It

Economists say we are facing a long recession. The Patrick administration offers a response: investing in the ‘Green Economy’ — primarily energy efficiency, renewable energy, and grants to encourage green companies to grow here — as good for the environment and the economy. And they’re right — if we do it correctly. However, in our exuberance to do the right thing, there is the potential to spend money needlessly, and residents may not get all the benefits they should expect.

Let’s start with the basics. The proposed investments are not funded by taxes but rather through surcharges and tariffs collected on customers of utilities — totaling about $175 million in 2009. This money supports utility-operated energy-efficiency programs and grant programs at quasi-government organizations such as the Mass. Technology Collaborative to build renewable power installations and provide seed money to green industries.

In addition, the Green Communities Act would allow utilities to invest ratepayer money to subsidize more renewable-power projects, with the financial risk and higher costs borne entirely by the ratepayer. This is all on top of an existing law that subsidizes renewable power to the tune of $125 million per year, and the approximately $75 million allocated to energy efficiency from recent auctions of carbon allowances as part of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative.

All this adds up to billions of dollars over the next few years alone, a huge wealth transfer from electricity users (many of whom are struggling in the economic downturn) to favored industries and programs. As a result, the administration and the Legislature have a heightened obligation to make sure the programs are cost-effective, transparent, and coordinated, and to monitor the overall program costs.

At present, that is not the case. Since responsibility for these programs spans different agencies and arises from separate legislation, regulation, and administrative actions, it is not clear that anyone except perhaps the attorney general, as ratepayer advocate, is adding up the combined impact of all these programs on ratepayers’ bills or gauging the economic impact of raising electricity rates on one sector of the economy to give incentives to other sectors. While some of the charges that fund these programs are separately identified on ratepayers’ bills, others are not, making them invisible to consumers.

That is not only unfair, but unwise. Without more coordination and cost control, and a hard look at their cost-benefit, these investments will be a patchwork of government and non-government programs operating in their own silos, resulting in redundancy and wasted money.

The fact that something raises costs or does not have an immediate payback, of course, does not mean we shouldn’t do it. Manageable higher prices today are an appropriate trade-off to free ourselves of fossil fuels, for environmental, social, and security reasons, as well as for the potential economic boost of more jobs.

But we must be smart. An economic crisis like this should open the door to innovative thinking and bold actions. The desire for expediency should not absolve the administration from spending the money efficiently and providing information in a transparent and accessible way. At a minimum, this means all the programs should be separately itemized on ratepayers’ bills. Also, the Legislature should maintain vigilant oversight of these programs.

Massachusetts can be the leader it wants to be and turn economic anxiety into economic advantage by committing to build or upgrade our ‘green infrastructure.’ Energy efficiency, distributed generation, wind farms, solar installations, new natural-gas-fired power plants, mass-transit projects, ‘smart’ electric meters, and plug-in stations for electric cars should all be in the mix.

But let’s do something that works, not something that just sounds good. The current crisis will be the catalyst for positive environmental and economic changes only if we resist the urge to spend unwisely.-

Robert Rio is senior vice president of Government Affairs at Associated Industries of Mass. Roger Borghesani is chairman of the Energy Consortium.

By
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.

FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT

April May v. Country Wide Home Loans
Allegation: Fraudulent foreclosure of home: $395,000
Filed: 12/30/08

Orica USA Inc. v. Pioneer Supply Corp.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $119,914.46
Filed: 12/18/08

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Turtle Fur Company v. Tucker Sports, Inc. d/b/a Trail’s Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,843.99
Filed: 12/24/08

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

Andrew Morrisette v. Dynamic Duck & Door, et al
Allegation: Negligence, breach of implied warranty, and product liability: $386,000
Filed: 12/15/08

Environmental Compliance Services Inc. v. Pete’s Sales & Services Inc. and PJB Realty, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of environmental services rendered: $164,796.87
Filed: 1/06/09

Instar Services Group, L.P. v. Pinocchio’s, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of cleaning emergency and restoration services: $29,882.11
Filed: 12/31/08

Isabel S. Hannant v. Agawam Family Physicians & Frank J. Stirlacci, M.D.
Allegation: Medical malpractice: $750,000+
Filed: 1/09/09

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT

Michael & Patricia Stoddard v. Izzy’s Garage & Shop Inc. and Isaiah Salloom
Allegation: Motor vehicle/pedestrian collision causing injury: $50,000+
Filed: 1/06/09

R & R Window Contractors Inc. v. Bacon Construction Co. and Continental Casualty Co.
Allegation: Non-payment of labor and materials for aluminum window work: $173,419.61
Filed: 1/14/09

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT

Nikon Inc v. Ware Gun Shop
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $10,037.39
Filed: 12/22/08

Northeast Hardscapes v. Northampton Nursing Home
Allegation: Non-payment of services rendered including labor and materials: $10,253
Filed: 12/17/08

PALMER DISTRICT COURT

Amanda Beaumier v. Service Connection
Allegation: Wrongful termination and defamation: $14,580
Filed: 12/12/08

East Street Baking Company v. Tebo’s Mini Market
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,364.07
Filed: 1/20/09

Northern Land Clearing, Inc. v. MRJ Enterprises Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of disposal, excavation, and land-clearing services: $13,502.10
Filed: 12/04/08

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT

Autopart International Inc. v. Brake King
Allegation: Breach of credit application and non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,556.75
Filed: 11/10/08

Baystate Gas Company v. P. Gioioso & Sons Inc.
Allegation: Damages for violations of Dig Safe Law: $5,140
Filed: 11/21/08

Highland Laundry Co. v. Bill’s Restaurant
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,259.82
Filed: 11/21/08

Jonathan Goldsmith, Chap. 7 Trustee of Affiliated Plumbing Corp. v. Callahan, Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of materials sold and services rendered: $188,450.18
Filed: 11/06/08

Sunset International Trade, LLC v. Mr. B’s f/d/b/a Nite-N-Day
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $23,377.91
Filed: 11/10/08

United Rentals Inc. v. All-Pro Masonry Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of materials, goods, and services provided for a construction project: $7,988.95
Filed: 11/06/08

By
Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2009.

AGAWAM

Azon Cigars Inc.
378 Walnut St.
Michael Beaudry

JFBH Holding Company
54 Colonial Ave.
James Hansmann

Paris Nails
336 North Westfield St.
Tuget Thi Vo

V & R Photography Designs
55 Rosie Lane
Vanessa Rossini

AMHERST

Moriarty Woodworking
145 Glendale Road
Mark Moriarty

Oak Pond Associates
15 Lady Slipper Circle
Toivo Tammerk

Sankofa Home for Children
121 Pondview Dr.
Fanny B. Efua-Dontoh

CHICOPEE

Design & Machine Services
31 Broad St.
Craig A. Goebel

Genoa Pizzeria
159 Grove St.
Daejoon Cho

EASTHAMPTON

Sharon Kimble Realty
8 Button Road
Sharon Kimble

Tiznit Valley Cab
5 Arlington St.
Mohamed Keffas

EAST LONGMEADOW

Body Works Unlimited Inc.
347 Elm St.
Antonio J. Bordoni

DLT Educational Consulting
65 Westernview Circle
Whitney Hebert

GREENFIELD

Affordable Cleaning
12 Vernon St.
Lisa Ann Vega

China Gourmet
78 Mohawk Trail
Hsien F. Chang

Chong’s Alterations & Tailoring
10 Federal St.
Chang Yu

HOLYOKE

Beauty Supply & Variety
362 High St.
Justina Torres

Desert Moon
50 Holyoke St.
Koang Yam

Hernandez Furniture
433 High St.
Miguel Hernandez

Holyoke Sporting Goods
1584 Dwight St.
Elizabeth A. Frey

Messier Funeral Home
1944 Northampton St.
Frank Forastiere

Tony’s Auto Sales
800 High St.
Anthony Trabal

NORTHAMPTON

Napa Auto Parts
348 King St.
Adam Tebaldi

New Light Solutions
104 Main St.
Reed Schimmelfing

Pioneer Valley Nutritional Therapy
94 King St.
Craig Fear

The Valley Bowl
51 Olive St.
Adam Corriveau

PALMER

Dave’s Auto & General Repair
346 Wilbraham Road
David J. Karpinski

Diamond Junction Bowling Lanes Inc.
1446 Main St.
Charles Hood III

DPN Investigative Background & Security Services
2023 East St.
Daniel P. Narreau

SOUTH HADLEY

Advanced Global Realty
498 Hadley St.
Edward Alford

Hampshire Food & Beverage, LLC
322 Newton St.
Nicholas Yee

Jen’s Haircare
491 Granby Road
Jennifer Moser

  

White Wing Service
568 Newton St.
Frank J. Strzempko

SOUTHWICK

Hairworks Salon
320 College Highway
Chantal Nadeau

SPRINGFIELD

Aqui Me Quedo Restaurant
13-15 Locust St.
Santo M. Diaz

C & M Cleaning
340 Cooley St.
Charade Cardova

Denmor Security LLC
1 Monarch Place
Martha L. Mahoney

Field Engineering Service
1260 Bay St.
Garry Roy Dumas

Fresh Cutz Barber Shop
494 Central St.
Ricardo Diaz

Gifts From Prison
181 Hampshire St.
Jo-Ann Theresa Miller

Gould’s Building and Remodeling
235 Birchland Ave.
Mark S. Gould

Harry Vanwart Painting
160 Cambria St.
Harry M. Van Wart

Ho Mei Chinese Restaurant
852 Main St.
Ya Rong Zheng

Infinite Interpretations
17 N. Chatman St.
Melanie Jana Daly

J & J Home Improvement
338 Oak St.
Juan A. Burgos

Junk Stop
402 King St.
Leslye Marshall

KMJ Transportation
101 Mulberry St.
Kayshawn T. Jacobs

Long Construction
18 Baywood St.
Joe C. Long Sr.

WESTFIELD

Affordable Technologies
24 Green Pine Lane
Sharon Menard

Angela’s Aesthetics
41 Court St.
Angela Centracchio

Belco Construction Co. Inc
385 Southampton Road
Jeanne Marie Dr.

Billy C’s Jerky, LLC
236 Elm St.
William Chaoush

Franklin Auto Body
11 Dwight St
Paul Mancino

Hedges Electrical Services
216 Notre Dame St.
Chad Hedges

Lombardi Associates
63 Kittredge Dr.
Kenneth P. Lombardi Sr.

MC Snow Plowing
542 West Road
Michael Gogol

Second Company
92 Little River Road
Patricia A. Castro

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Advantage Staffing Associates Inc.
131 Elm St.
Patricia A. Connors

Professional Acoustics
2119 Riverdale St.
Professional Drywall Corporation

Rental Remarketing Inc.
74 Baldwin St.
Michael M. Gentile

Sonny’s Convenience
2260 Westfield St.
Sunil R. Patel

Sorcinelli Real Estate
29 Sikes Ave.
Antonio Sorcinelli

Technical Tool Supply
5 Barnard St.
Pioneer Supply Co. Inc.

The Kid’s Place, Inc.
915 Memorial Ave.
Scott L. Petersen

Thrifty Car Rental
74 Baldwin St.
Michael Gentile

Westside Auto Sales
194 Baldwin St.
Anthony Lafromboise

By
Departments

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

BELCHERTOWN

Belchertown Unit 239 Inc. Chauncey D. Walker American Legion Auxillary, 66 State St., Belchertown, MA 01007. Elizabeth E. Whidden, 400 Stebbins St., Belchertown MA 01007. Aid for Veterans, children and community.

EASTHAMPTON

GMTBP Inc., 71 Main St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Walter Pacheco, same. Restauraunt ownership and management.

GRANVILLE

Devine Construction Inc., 20 Hartland Hollow Road, Granville, MA 01034. Forrest Devine, same. Real estate.

SOUTH HADLEY

Griffin Online Solutions Inc., 333 Granby Road, South Hadley, MA 01075. Rita Griffin, same. E-Commerce.

SOUTHAMPTON

First Trans. + Repairs Inc., 4 Geryk Court, Southampton, MA 01073. Robert Demagistris, same. Transportation.

  

SPRINGFIELD

D.I.V.A.S. Ministries, 1155 Liberty St. Springfield, MA 01104, Leslie S. Smith, same.
To assist and empower women from incarceration and/or substance abuse centers to transition back into their families, housing and gainful employment.

 

First Aid Inc., 1 Crescent Hill, Springfield, MA 01105 David Allan Mech, same. Raise funds to help troops and their families in times of need.

Gifted Threads Inc., 2047 Wilbraham Road, Springfield, MA 01129. Matthew Hood, same. A clothing company.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

39 Neptune Avenue Corporation, 39 Neptune Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089. Sean
Mansfield, same. Food service — bar and restaurant.

CMP Inventory Management Company Inc., 136 Wayside Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089 James Pollard, same. Management company.

Goffer Construction Inc., 16 Healy St., West Springfield MA 01089. Aleksandr Salagornik Sr., same. Bar and grill.

By
Departments

Attorney Richard T. O’Connor has joined Bacon Wilson P.C. in Springfield. O’Connor is a member of the Health Care Department and will focus on matters involving medical groups, regulatory compliance, and managed-care agreements.

•••••

Douglas J. De Leo has been elected to the Board of Trustees at the Clarke School for the Deaf in Northampton. De Leo and his family participate in the Parent-Infant Program at Clarke’s Family Center, and recently hosted a reception in Westfield to introduce the community to Clarke’s outreach efforts. De Leo is the founder of NWS Corp., providing business and academic telecommunications networks to corporations, college campuses, and military complexes across the United States.

•••••

Marilyn Ghedini has joined Masslive.com in Springfield as an Account Executive specializing in real estate. Ghedini has 28 years of real estate experience, and served as president of the Greater Springfield Assoc. of Realtors in 2002.

•••••

Morgan Stanley in Springfield announced the following:
• Michael D. Ravosa has been promoted to Associate Vice President, Financial Advisor, in the firm’s Global Wealth Management Group office, and
• John S. Bonatakis has been promoted to Associate Vice President, Financial Advisor, in the firm’s Global Wealth Management Group office.

•••••

MassMutual’s Retirement Services Division in Springfield announced the following:
• Karen Buoniconti has joined MassMutual’s TPA service organization, supporting the western region;
• Jim Keating has been named Relationship Manager for MassMutual’s TPA service organization, serving the northeast region, and
• Eric Sarrazin has joined MassMutual’s TPA service organization.
The new TPA relationship managers are focused on assisting advisors with plan reviews, investment-change processing, product and service education, and other valuable support for TPA-serviced plans on MassMutual’s platform.

•••••

Country Bank of Ware has named Denise D. Hawk as First Vice President and Director of Retail Lending. She has more than 20 years of experience in the lending industry and will manage the origination functions of the bank’s residential and consumer loans, and direct the lending team’s efforts.

•••••

lia sophia in Chicopee announced the following:
• Tammy Biller has received top honors for the Excellent Beginnings Program for outstanding sales accomplishments and professionalism;
• Brittany Burtness has received top honors for the Excellent Beginnings Program for outstanding sales accomplishments and professionalism, and
• Lynn Lafrennie has received top honors for the Excellent Beginnings Program for outstanding sales accomplishments and professionalism.

•••••

Sean Wandrei, CPA for Meyers Brothers Kalicka of Holyoke, has been named a member of the Board of Directors of the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield. He will serve a two-year term as Treasurer. Wandrei has more than 12 years of experience in public accounting with a focus on taxation.

•••••

Bulkley, Richardson and Gelinas of Springfield announced the following:
• Jenelle C. Dodds has been named a Partner;
• Vanessa L. Smith has been named a Partner;
• Daniel M. Rothschild has been named Counsel, and
• Eric D. Beal has been named an Associate.

•••••

Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. announced the following:
• Ralph F. Abbott, Managing Partner, has been named a Super Lawyer by Boston magazine. Abbott’s practice is in the area of labor relations, helping companies manage union negotiations, collective bargaining agreements, and labor arbitrations, as well as working with companies that want to remain union-free.
• Jay M. Presser, Partner, has been named a Super Lawyer by Boston magazine. Presser heads the Litigation Department, which focuses on preventing and defending employment-related litigation, including employment discrimination and wage-and-hour matters as well as other legal matters brought by employees against their employers.
• John H. Glenn, Partner, has been named a Super Lawyer by Boston magazine. Glenn’s practice is predominantly in labor relations, helping companies manage union negotiations, collective bargaining agreements, and labor arbitrations, as well as working with companies that want to remain union-free.
• Marylou V. Fabbo, Partner, has been named a Super Lawyer by Boston magazine. Fabbo’s practice concentrates in employment-related matters, defending lawsuits in state and federal court and before administrative agencies, such as the Mass. Commission Against Discrimination. Fabbo also assists employers with preventative measures that avoid such litigation, including handbook and policy review and development, performance management, and disciplinary issues.
• Susan Fentin, Partner, has been named a Super Lawyer by Boston magazine. Fentin’s practice concentrates in employment-related matters, defending lawsuits in state or federal court and before administrative agencies, as well as assisting employers with preventative measures that avoid such litigation.
The firm, which practices exclusively labor and employment law and represents only management, has offices in Springfield, Worcester, and Meriden, Conn.

•••••

Tastefully Simple Inc. in Agawam announced the following:
• Kelly Jendza has joined the firm as an independent Consultant;
• Kristin Gagnon has joined the firm as an independent Consultant;
• Jennifer Denault has joined the firm as an independent Consultant;
• Amber Fazio has joined the firm as an independent Consultant;
• Judy Koralik has joined the firm as an independent Consultant;
• Andrea Hartin has joined the firm as an independent Consultant;
• Kathryn Callahan has joined the firm as an independent Consultant, and
• Erin Burke has joined the firm as an independent Consultant.
As consultants, the women offer the company’s gourmet foods and beverages to guests at home taste-testing pa

By
Departments

Selecting a Tax Preparer
By Kristina Drzal Houghton, CPA, MST

1. If you will be paying someone to do your return, choose the tax preparer wisely. You are legally responsible for what is on your tax return even if it is prepared by someone else.

2. Obtain an estimate of what the service fee will be before your return is prepared. Avoid preparers who base their fee on a percentage of the amount of your refund or who claim they can obtain larger refunds than other preparers.
3. Only use a tax professional that signs your return and provides you with a copy for your records.
4. Avoid preparers who ask you to sign a blank tax form.

5. Choose a preparer who will be around to answer questions after the return has been filed.

6. Ask questions. Do you know anyone who used this tax professional? Were they satisfied with the service they received?
7. Check to see if the preparer has any questionable history with the Better Business Bureau, the state’s board of accountancy for CPAs, or the state’s bar association for attorneys.
8. Determine if the preparer’s credentials meet your needs. Does your state have licensing requirements for paid preparers? Is he or she an enrolled agent, certified public accountant, or attorney? If so, the preparer can represent taxpayers before the IRS on all matters including audits, collections, and appeals.
9. Before you sign a return, review it. Ask questions of the preparer if you do not understand something.

10. A reputable preparer will request to see your records and receipts and should ask you multiple questions to determine your total income and qualifications for expenses, deductions, and other items. By doing so, you will know they have your best interest in mind.

Kristina Drzal Houghton, CPA, MST is the partner-in-charge of Taxation at Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., with specialties in taxation planning for individuals, closely held corporations, partnerships, multi-state entities, and tax-exempt organizations; (413) 536-8510.

In Praise of the Difference Makers

By
Opinion

BusinessWest launched a new recognition program late last year. It’s called Difference Makers, and as we said in our initial announcement, while that name says it all in some ways, in other ways it really doesn’t.

That’s because the phrase ‘making a difference’ is somewhat overused and has lost some of its meaning and its punch. With this new program, BusinessWest wants to bring some attention and acclaim to those who really are making an impact in the community we call Western Mass., and are inspiring others to do the same.

When we unveil the first round of winners in early February, you’ll see what we mean.

But let’s back up a minute.

BusinessWest already had a few recognition programs with its name on them. One is the Top Entrepreneur award, given since 1996 to individuals who exemplify the proud tradition of entrepreneurship in this region, a tradition shaped by people like Milton Bradley, George Davis, Everett Barney, and Horace Smith and Daniel Wesson, and carried on by recent winners such as Jeb Balise, the Falcone family (founders and operators of Rocky’s Hardware), and the recipients for 2008, Arlene Kelly and Kim Sanborn, who have created two businesses that have changed the face of health care business operations.

We also created 40 Under Forty. Well, actually, we started our own version of what has become a national trend among business publications — to recognize up-and-coming talent in a given market.

Both programs have become huge successes, and play key roles in helping this publication relate the accomplishments of some very talented people. But something was missing.

Not all people are true entrepreneurs (although most in business are at least entrepreneurial), and, alas, certainly not everyone doing important things and making lasting contributions is under 40. So we created another program that can, and will in many cases, recognize those who don’t fall into one or either category.

These can be individuals who are making great strides in business and thus perhaps changing the fortunes of a company, a business sector, a community, or a region. They can be individuals who are making an impact in the community through donations of money, time, energy, and inspiration to nonprofits and those served by them. They can be leaders who are at the forefront of change and improvement in the quality of life for people who live, work, and play in this region.

The timing of this program is important. While we didn’t exactly plan it this way, Difference Makers becomes a counterbalance to the successive waves of negative news about the economy, the stock market, job losses, and the incredible toll all this is taking on individuals and communities. There are still good things happening in the region, and some of that news is being buried in the avalanche of negative press.

But BusinessWest is not a ‘good-news journal.’ That’s not our purpose, and it never will be. Instead, our mission is to simply hold up a mirror to the region and especially its business community and effectively reflect that image — good, bad, ugly, or promising.

Difference Makers is part of all this mirror-holding work that we do.

It was created to reflect the work of people (some of which goes largely unnoticed or underappreciated) that contributes to progress in this region and makes Western Mass. special.

The stories vary, of course, but they all start with unique people who, well, want to make a difference — and are doing so.

So who are the first Difference Makers? For that, you’ll have to wait two weeks. We need to build up some suspense.-

By
Departments

Hiring a Home Contractor

This is the second installment in a new feature called, simply, ’10 Points.’ As the name suggests, it provides 10 quick but important points about a given subject relevant to consumers or business professionals. If you would like to contribute to ’10 Points,’ please submit your idea to [email protected].

By ADAM BASCH

1. Just as an employer checks the references of someone seeking employment, a homeowner should check the references of a contractor. Ask to see some of the homes he has worked on in the past, and speak to the owners.

2. Check the contractor’s name at the registry of deeds. See if other customers have had to file suit against the contractor.
3. Make sure that the contractor is registered with the Common-wealth. A registration can be checked at www.state.ma.us.
4. Do not pull your own building permits. The contractor should pull all permits. If a homeowner pulls the permits, they will be disqualified from making a claim to the Guarantee Fund.

5. Avoid paying before services are complete. While most contactors will ask for a deposit, any future payments should closely follow the amount of work actually being done.

6. Make sure all terms of the agreement are reduced to a contract signed by both parties. If, during construction, additions or subtractions are made to the scope of the project, sign change orders.
7. If the contractor you are hiring has employed subcontractors on your project, make sure you obtain mechanic’s lien waivers from all subcontractors prior to making payment to your contractor.
8. Talk to the city or town building inspector. If the contractor has done poor work before, the building inspector may be aware of it.
9. Request a copy of the contractor’s workers’ compensation policy to insure all people working on your property are covered by workers’ compensation.

10. If expensive materials must be ordered, have the contactor order them, but send payments directly to the manufacturer.

Adam J. Basch, Esq. is an associate with Bacon Wilson, P.C. He is a member of the litigation department with expertise in the areas of construction litigation, personal injury, general litigation, and creditor representation; (413) 781-0560; [email protected].

By
Departments

Tabletop Business Expo

Jan. 21: The Women’s Partnership, a division of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield Inc., is still accepting reservations for its annual Tabletop Business Expo, slated from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel on Riverdale Street, West Springfield. Now in its 11th year, the expo offers an affordable opportunity to network and to showcase one’s business to hundreds of professionals. Highlights of the affair include interactive exhibits and a presentation by personal chef Bill Collins. Reservations are required and may be made by calling Diane Swanson at the ACCGS office, 1441 Main St., Springfield, (413) 787-1555, or via E-mail to [email protected].  Booth reservations include one lunch ticket at a cost of $75; lunch/event tickets are $25.

Chamber Nite

January 21: The Berkshire Chamber of Commerce will host Chamber Nite at the Greylock Federal Credit Union, 150 West St., Pittsfield, from 5 to 7 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres will be served during the networking event, which includes an update on the Berkshire United Way campaign. In addition, a name from all those who donated to the United Way campaign will be drawn and will win their choice of a 2009 Nissan Sentra or $10,000 in cash, donated by Johnson Ford-Lincoln-Mercury-Nissan and Greylock Federal Credit Union. Chamber Nite events are open to Berkshire Chamber members and their employees. For more information, call (413) 499-4000, ext. 26.

State of the State

Jan. 22: Mass. Lt. Gov. Tim Murray will visit Whalley Computer Associates in Southwick to participate in a seminar for mayors, town leaders, and school superintendents, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Paul Whalley, vice president of Whalley Computer Associates, will follow Murray’s presentation with a discussion titled “Saving Jobs and Money by Reducing IT Costs.” The presentation is intended to empower mayors, town business managers, and school superintendents to intelligently reduce their IT expenses while improving the end users’ experience. City, town, and school executives are encouraged to invite their IT directors to the meeting. Seating is limited for the breakfast and tour of Whalley Computer Associates. To register, contact Justin Newman prior to Jan. 16 at (413) 569-4245. Persons unable to attend the meeting but who would like more information on ways to significantly reduce IT costs may contact Mark Duarte at (413) 569-4231.

Jimmy Fund Benefit

Jan. 23: More than 30 of the area’s finest restaurants and caterers will present “Around the World with Chefs for Jimmy” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Chez Josef in Agawam. The 19th annual Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute fund-raiser will feature culinary delights, as well as a silent auction. Door-prize drawings are also planned. Tickets are $75 and are available in advance only. For more information, call the regional Jimmy Fund office in West Springfield at (413) 546-6938, or visit www.jimmyfund.org/chefs-for-jimmy .  The Jimmy Fund supports the fight against cancer at Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

WorldQuest Competition

Jan. 24: The World Affairs Council of Western Mass. will host its fourth annual Academic WorldQuest competition at Western New England College in Springfield, beginning at 2 p.m. Academic WorldQuest is an international affairs quiz featuring 10 rounds of 10 questions on a variety of topics, including current events, globalization, transnational crime, alternative fuels, and population in developing countries. The event is open to student teams representing Springfield public high schools. The public is welcome to attend the free affair. For more information, call the World Affairs Council office at (413) 733-0110.

CLIO Awards

Jan. 28: The Ad Club of Western Mass. will showcase the 2008 CLIO Awards for television from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Rivers Memorial at Western New England College in Springfield. The CLIO Awards honor creative excellence and innovation in the advertising, design, and interactive industries. Tickets are $25 for Ad Club members, $35 for future members, and $15 for students. Registration is necessary by Jan. 23 and may be made by visiting www.adclubwm.org  or by calling (413) 736-CLUB.

The Aging Brain

Feb. 5: A lecture titled “The Aging Brain: The Agile Mind” will be presented by Posit Science of San Francisco, Calif., as part of the Kaleidoscope lecture series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. The lecture, beginning at 7 p.m., includes a post-discussion demonstration of a brain exercise to learn how to make the aging brain more agile. The free event is open to the public and will be conducted in Breck Suite in Wright Hall. For more information, call (413) 565-1066 or visit www.baypath.edu .

Outlook 2009

Feb. 9:  U.S. Congressman John Tanner will provide the keynote address at the Affiliated Chambers’ annual Outlook program to be staged at Chez Josef in Agawam, beginning at 11:45 a.m. The Outlook program, made possible through the sponsorship of presenting sponsor Health New England; platinum sponsors Eastern States Exposition, MassMutual Financial Group, PeoplesBank, Western Massachusetts Electric Co., and sound sponsor Zasco Productions, LLC, offers business professionals a first-hand opportunity to gain regional, state, and federal perspectives on legislative issues, politics, and economies. Tanner has represented Tennessee’s 8th District for the past 20 years and is a cofounder of a growing alliance of moderate-to-conservative Democrats known as the Blue Dog Coalition. Founded in 1995, the Blue Dog Coalition was so named because its members felt they had been “squeezed from the left and the right until they turned blue in the face.” Tanner is a leader in the fight for fiscal responsibility, supports pro-growth economic policies, and is in the forefront in the fight to eliminate the federal debt. U.S. Congressman Richard E. Neal will introduce Tanner during the Outlook program. Massachusetts Senate President Therese Murray has been invited to present the state outlook, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno will provide the regional outlook. Outlook 2009 will begin with an invitation-only social hour at 11:15 a.m., and the program will begin at 11:45 a.m. Tickets are $45 per ticket for members of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield and $65 per ticket for non-members. Tables of 10 and 12 are available. Reservations must be made in writing and in advance. Sign up online at www.myonlinechamber.com, or mail, E-mail, or fax to Diane Swanson, Events Manager, 1441 Main St., Suite 133, Springfield, MA 01103-1449. E-mail: [email protected] ; fax: (413) 755-1322. Reservation deadline is Feb. 6.

Winter Weekend

Feb. 14-16: Hancock Shaker Village in Hancock will stage its annual Winter Weekend, which will feature ice harvesting at the Shaker Reservoir, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and nature walks. Visitors will also have an opportunity to participate in craft projects, cooking demonstrations, and tours of historic Shaker buildings. The ice-harvesting demonstrations will be led by Dennis Picard, who appeared last year in Absolure Zero, The Conquest of Cold, a PBS Nova program. For more information, call (800) 817-1137, or visit www.hancockshakervillage.org .

Women and Retirement

Feb. 26: Shelly Colville, a registered representative of the National Planning Corporation, will present a lecture titled “Women and Retirement: Are You Saving Wisely?” as part of the Kaleidoscope lecture series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. Colville will lead women and men of all ages in an Oppenheimer Funds workshop to guide them to a better understanding of planning for the future. The free event is open to the public and will be conducted in Breck Suite in Wright Hall. For more information, call (413) 565-1066 or visit www.baypath.edu .

By
Departments

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

Barkett, Paul F.
12 Church St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/09/08

Beamon, Tracy L.
37 Border St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/04/08

Beckwith, Clyde E.
Beckwith, Beverly R.
453 Brattleboro Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Bell, Matthew L.
Sweet, Chelsea C.
19 Willard Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/28/08

Bennett, Tracey E.
139 Mayfair Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/08

Bonilla, Osiris L.
143 Kimberly Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/01/08

Brancazzu, John A.
68 Dexter St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Brown, Jody Frank
Brown, Terry Lynn
a/k/a Weibel, Terry Lynn
55 Stebbins St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Bump, Margaret J.
PO Box 1383
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/05/08

Burgess, Stephanie N.
81 Slater Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/15/08

Candy’s Pub Inc.
489 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 11
Filing Date: 12/01/08

Carraturo, Anthony J.
40 St. Kolbe Dr., Unit C
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/05/08

Cencia, Ryan C.
56 Vinal Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/09/08

Cwiok, Sandra J.
1115 Overlook Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Daigle, Scott N.
Daigle, Dawn M.
800 Old Petersham Road
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/28/08

Daryl’s Place
Alston, Daryl T.
Alston, Kim Angela
a/k/a Rogers, Kim Angela
212 Acrebrook Dr.
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/08

Dean, Jason A.
98 Dartmouth St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/08

Dillon, John M.
309 Deerfield St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

Ducharme, Henry L.
93 Grochmal Ave., Lot 6
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Duval, John M.
Duval, Yvette M.
1449 County Road
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/07/08

Espada, Myriam S.
70 Walnut St. #304
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Favreau, Mark R.
Favreau, Sandra L.
74 Bacon St., Apt. #1
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/28/08

Fugiel, Carol Ann
269 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Gerald, Juliette M.
12 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/08

Goodrich, Stuart B.
Goodrich, Dawn L.
121 West Road
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/08

Gresham, Barbara J.
139 Colton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/09/08

Harris, Louise A.
68 Theroux Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Healy, Carla J.
a/k/a Barrett, Carla J.
P.O. Box 73
Worthington, MA 01098
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/05/08

Horrigan, John T.
Horrigan, Anna B.
11 Dale St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/08

Hughes, Chris A.
PO Box 172
North Hatfield, MA 01066
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Hughes, Deborah A.
P.O. Box 1465
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Juzba, Robert
40C Valley View
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Juzba, Thomas J.
110 Gardens Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Kuhn, Kelly A.
135 East Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Kum, Roger Olston
128 Benton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Labato, Daniel Louis
63 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Labonte, Denise M.
534 South St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Labosco, Carol A.
P.O. Box 284
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Leang, Va
Son, Tha
64 Bonner St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/05/08

Long, Sue A.
P.O. Box 543
West Stockbridge, MA 01266
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/09/08

  

Love, Alita M.
9 Pelham St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/05/08

Lozada, Juan D.
Lozada, Diana M.
1460 Page Boulevard
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/08

Martinez, Luz A.
33 Superior Ave.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/30/08

Mathes, Rick J.
323 Sargeant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/30/08

Mazza, Dominic L.
Mazza, Marie E.
70 Garden St., Apt D
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/29/08

Modern Design Solutions
Kislyuk, Mark N.
P.O. Box 865
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Monette, Phillip J.
Monette, Jacqueline A.
a/k/a Wanczyk, Jacqueline A.
480 Hazard Ave.
Enfield, CT 06082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Moorehouse, Sandra L.
45 Spring St. #210
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

Moriarty, Erin E.
a/k/a Manning, Erin E.
11 Conifer Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/04/08

Moriarty, Devin M.
6 West Creek Court
Lafayette, CA 94549
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/04/08

Morse, Todd R.
29 Hopkins Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/12/08

Negron, Francisco J.
Negron, Maricely
13 1/2 Washington Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

O’Connor, Craig
O’Connor, Kimberly
113 Harkness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/08

Olszta, Anne Marie
69 Lathrop St. #5B
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Parker, Holly M.
78 Southwick St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Prats, David
Prats, Barbara E.
65 Northwest Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Reardon, Michael James
42 Colony Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/08

Rines, Jonathan
93 Crochmal Ave.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

Rivera, Milton Luis
33 Parkin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Robbins, Greg A.
61 East Palmer Park Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Robinson, Donald C.
Robinson, Marianne B.
286 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/08

Rodriguez, Juan A.
46 West School St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/08

Rodriguez, Maria
70 Harrison Ave., Apt.301
Springfield, MA 01103
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Rodriguez, Rufino
53 Empire St., Apt. F
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/30/08

Rolandini, Jacob P.
65 Riviera Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/08

Rooney, Darlene E.
Rooney, Shawn P.
519 East River St.
Lot 127
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/28/08

Sandoval, Shawn L.
76 Hall St. Apt 2A
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/08

Santaniello, Joanna
1083 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Schneider, Susan E.
11 Enterprise St.
Adams, MA 01220
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/09/08

Scyocurka, Gregory S.
113 Ely Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

Stackhouse, Stacy L.
223 West St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

Stoddard, Kathleen L.
19 Wilder Ter.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/08

Tallman, Maria E.
49 Poinsetta St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/05/08

Talora, Carol A.
105 Laurel St., Apt.4A
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

Trzpit, Richard A.
Trzpit, Diane M.
5 Grove St
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/29/08

Weiner, Evan J.
Weiner, Virginia M.
5 Sherwood Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/08

Winters, Marianne
56 Harvard St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/08

Woodard, James M.
Woodard, Lisa M.
342 Southwick Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/08

X-Pressions
Corriveau, Donald R.
2626 Old Westfield Rd
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/08

By
Departments

WFCR Opens Springfield Broadcast Center

AMHERST — The first new studio space in nearly 50 years for 88.5FM WFCR and 640AM WNNZ – NPR News and Music for Western New England, officially opened for business on Jan. 14 in downtown Springfield. Comprising a state-of-the-art production facility, broadcast studio, and news bureau, the WFCR/WNNZ Springfield Broadcast Center has been built within the broadcast complex of WGBY Channel 57. The new center will enable the station to produce a broader range of content and report more fully on Hampden County and Northern Conn. The move is also representative of the commitment that UMass Amherst, WFCR’s license holder, has for the Springfield area under the new Greater Springfield-UMass Amherst Partnership, according to general manager Martin Miller. The studio will be staffed full-time by two WFCR reporters and student interns from across the five-college consortium and colleges in the Greater Springfield area. WFCR’s plans also include a bilingual reporter who will cover issues in all of the emerging communities of Western Mass. and Connecticut, added Miller. WFCR’s main headquarters will remain in Hampshire House on the UMass Amherst campus, which is also being rehabilitated as part of the station’s $4.2 million capital campaign.

Dog Combating Bedbugs

SPRINGFIELD — “Bingo,” a NESDECA-certified search dog, is helping one local company combat bedbugs. American Pest Solutions Inc. has entered into a partnership with New England Canine Detectives for the use of a bedbug-detecting dog — Bingo — in its effort to combat the region’s growing bedbug infestation. Bingo is a beagle specifically trained to locate bedbugs, according to American Pest Solutions President Bob Russell. By using Bingo to quickly and efficiently locate bedbug infestations in homes and businesses, pesticides do not need to be used, added Russell. Russell noted that the region is experiencing what he calls a “bedbug epidemic,” and that using a dog like Bingo to find them quickly is “unbeatable.” For more information, call (413) 784-0044. American Pest Solutions Inc. is located on Williams Street.

Moriarty & Primack, P.C. Employees Give Back to Community

SPRINGFIELD — Each holiday season, employees of Moriarty & Primack, P.C. seek new ways to give back to the community, and last month was no exception. In addition to a donated Disney-themed tree for the Boys and Girls Club’s Festival of Trees, employees also organized dress-down days to benefit nonprofits and local charities. In November, employees’ dress-down funds provided breakfast at Thanksgiving for 300 people at the Friends of the Homeless. In December, employees contributed $540, and the company matched with an additional $540, to purchase toys for the Holyoke-Chicopee-Springfield Head Start’s All I Want For Christmas campaign. Additionally, employees donated $575 to the Toy for Joy Fund.

JCC Opens Fitness Store

SPRINGFIELD — As area residents gear up to get fit in the new year, the Springfield Jewish Community Center (JCC) can help with its new “jcc FIT stuff” store. Fitness performance clothing, nutrition bars, boxing gloves, squash balls, yoga equipment, swimming gear, and other fitness-related items are offered for men, women, and youth to aid athletes both young and mature. All food items offered are kosher and were chosen by Kathy Roberts, RD, LDN, nutritionist and JCC member, with a focus on low-fat content, low-sodium content, and low sugar without artificial sugars or additives. Proceeds raised from store purchases benefit JCC youth athletic programs and scholarships for recreational and sports programs. For more information, call (413) 739-4715.

Nursing Center Has New Mission

WESTFIELD — Westfield Harborside Healthcare Rehabilitation and Nursing Center has undergone a transformation with a new name and mission statement. Now known as Westfield Care and Rehabilitation Center, the skilled nursing facility also recently unveiled its new mission statement — “Caring Is the Key in Life.” The corresponding new logo, a sun resting in the palm of a hand, symbolizes the act of caring by providing support to those who receive its services with a sense of warmth. The center’s new name was determined by a team of local managers with input from employees. Administrator George Mercier noted that the new external identity mirrors what the organization represents — a daily commitment to providing quality health care services to everyone entrusted to their care. The new logo replaces the center’s former logo which depicted a white sailboat on a blue background. Westfield Care and Rehabilitation Center is operated by the SunBridge Healthcare Corp., based in Irvine, Calif.

By
Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2009.

AGAWAM

Charter’s General Carpentry
305 Springfield St.
Donald Chartier

Crystal Ice & Fuel
343 Main St.
Michael Grimaldi

S & S Plumbing & Heating
764 North West St.
Steven B. Lopes Jr.

AMHERST

Amherst Market Inc.
259 Triangle St.
Naresh Patel

College Pizza
150 Fearing St.
Hasan Cakmak

CHICOPEE

Around The Clock Repair
1057 Montgomery St.
Lynn A. Fontaine

DG Heating & Cooling
230 Clarendon Ave.
Daniel J. Gregory

L & C Advertising
63 Main St.
Lori A. Jerusik

Olde Time Service
2041 Memorial Dr.
Brian Kennedy

TruGreen / Chem Lawn
2160 Westover Road
TruGreen Limited Partnership

X Posse Productions
35 Bell St.
Eugene & Danielle McGahee

EAST LONGMEADOW

Child Empowerment Educational Consulting
17 Rural Lane
Gloria Sue Wald

College Tuition Landscaping
15 Anthony Dr.
Michael & Jennifer Morrisino

Elmcrest Country Club — 19th Hole Lounge
105 Somersville Road
John E. Haberern

Family Bike Inc.
217 L Shaker Road
Raymond Plouffe

Island Tanning — Century Fitness Inc.
491 North Main St.
Todd Witwer

Plouffe Realty Inc.
217 L Shaker Road
Raymond Plouffe

GREENFIELD

Kesco Services
62 Federal St.
Charles E. Kestyn

HADLEY

Center For Holistic Health
8 River Dr.
Richard Martin

HOLYOKE

AAP Alcon Auto Parts
775 High St.
Carlos A. Martinez

Aroma Therapy
50 Holyoke St.
Adam Vang

Butterfly Express
50 Holyoke St.
Richard Lau

King Mart
494 Westfield Road
Swadia & Patel LLC

Luna Bella Home Décor
50 Holyoke St.
Mary Welch

LONGMEADOW

Image Style Consultants
70 Green Willow Dr.
Hilary Suher

Northend Medical Associates, LLC
84 Lawrence Dr.
Florence Odutola

TDC Consulting
80 Longview Dr.
John Patrick Connolly

Western Massachusetts Learning Centers
281 Deepwoods Dr.
Robert Clarke

LUDLOW

Ludlow Massage Center
326 West Ave.
Debra Lewenzuk

NORTHAMPTON

AutoPart International Inc.
137 King St.
Brian Vautrin

Curran & Berger
74 Masonic St.
Joseph P. Curran

Logic Trail
448 Bridge Road
Alexander Simon

Sohofile
575 Bridge Road
Steve Duncan

  

PALMER

P & H Heating
177 Emery St.
Michael R. Hermanson

Vinny’s Firehouse Pizza
1112 Park St.
Vincenzo Manzi

SOUTH HADLEY

Child Adventures
93 Pine Grove Dr.
Geraldine Moriarti

Creating Comfort Outlet
2086 Memorial Dr.
Joshua Barina

Mychildren Mybride
20 Lamb St.
Leah Urbano

Pellerin Construction
84 Hadley St.
James Pellerin

Home Facelifters
244 Brainerd St.
Philip E. Stefanelli

SOUTHWICK

Qualifying Times Ministry
Linda Hawley
7 Sterrett Dr.

SPRINGFIELD

Aranea Pest Management
11 Watling Road
John Daniel Roncalli

Big Shots
126 Merida St.
Nathan Eugene

Bully U Entertainment
20 Ogden St.
John Nichels

Cali Nail Care
2460 Main St.
Kelly Huang

Compliance Security Co.
35 Windemere St.
Calvin V. Branch

Creative Theater Concepts
1700 Main St.
Steven Stein

Curl Up & Dye Hair Salon
439D Main St.
Jadwiga Moskal

D & A Constable Service
1396 Parker St.
Kelly Ann Doyle

DCP Judgment Recovery Service
77 Clifton Ave.
Diane Lowe

Evelyn’s Learning Center
23 Hamburg St.
Evelyn J. Bermudez

Fresh Kids
1291 Boston Road
Kerri Lyn Cofer

Good News Photography
5 Garvey Dr.
Harold P. Dixson

Huntington Learning Center
352 Cooley St.
Deborah Y. Alli

J & B Woodcrafters
15 West Laramee Green
James E. Brown

J.A. Trucking
164 Sherman St.
Felix Alberto Arias

WESTFIELD

Angela’s Aesthetics
41 Court St.
Angela Centracchio

Belco Construction Co. Inc.
385 Southampton Road
John J. Beltrandi

Hedges Electrical Services
216 Notre Dame St.
Chad Hedges

MG Snow Plowing
542 West Road
Michael Gogol

WEST SPRINGFIELD

K and M Auto Sales
697 Union St.
Kyle Paul Shoemaker

Mario Couture
1410 Morgan Road
Mario B. Couture

Preferred Painting
218 Union St.
Anthony M. Alfano

Sanditz Travel
1053 Riverdale St.
Henry Richard Wrotniak

Spherion Staffing
68 Westfield St.
Stix Inc. Corp.

Todd M. Banaitis Electric
46 Lotus Ave.
Todd M. Banaitis

By
Departments

Ringing in 2009

The Young Professionals Society kicked off 2009 in style with its inaugural New Year’s Ball, an event that drew more than 200 people to the Sheraton in downtown Springfield. Clockwise, from right, YPS Co-vice President Jeffrey Fialky and his wife, Emily, enjoy the festivities; Co-vice president Trevis Wray toots his own horn; toasting the new year are, from left, Tina D’agostino, Sandra Bessette, current President Alyssa Carvalho, and Andrew Schmidt; an ice sculpture boasts the society’s working slogan.

Communications Conference

On Jan. 8, Western New England College and the Valley Press Club staged their annual Communications Conference, a day-long program of talks and panel discussions centered on the issues of effective communication and developing working relationships with the press. Above, from left, George O’Brien, editor of BusinessWest; Kathy Tobin, anchor for WGGB40 and FOX6; and Wayne Phaneuf, executive editor of the Republican, take questions from the audience during a “Meet the Gatekeepers” panel discussion. At right, Mark McCandlish, organizational development manager with Baystate Health, leads a workshop on “Delivering on Your Service Promise.”

By
Departments

Outlook 2009

Feb. 9: U.S. Congressman John Tanner will provide the keynote address at the Affiliated Chambers’ annual Outlook program to be staged at Chez Josef in Agawam, beginning at 11:45 a.m. The Outlook program, made possible through the sponsorship of presenting sponsor Health New England; platinum sponsors Eastern States Exposition, MassMutual Financial Group, PeoplesBank, Western Massachusetts Electric Co., and sound sponsor Zasco Productions, LLC, offers business professionals a first-hand opportunity to gain regional, state, and federal perspectives on legislative issues, politics, and economies. Tanner has represented Tennessee’s 8th District for the past 20 years and is a cofounder of a growing alliance of moderate-to-conservative Democrats known as the Blue Dog Coalition. Founded in 1995, the Blue Dog Coalition was so named because its members felt they had been “squeezed from the left and the right until they turned blue in the face.” Tanner is a leader in the fight for fiscal responsibility, supports pro-growth economic policies, and is in the forefront in the fight to eliminate the federal debt. U.S. Congressman Richard E. Neal will introduce Tanner during the Outlook program. Massachusetts Senate President Therese Murray has been invited to present the state outlook, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno will provide the regional outlook. Outlook 2009 will begin with an invitation-only social hour at 11:15 a.m., and the program will begin at 11:45 a.m. Tickets are $45 per ticket for members of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield and $65 per ticket for non-members. Tables of 10 and 12 are available. Reservations must be made in writing and in advance. Sign up online at www.myonlinechamber.com, or mail, E-mail, or fax to Diane Swanson, Events Manager, 1441 Main St., Suite 133, Springfield, MA 01103-1449. E-mail: [email protected]; fax: (413) 755-1322. Reservation deadline is Feb. 6.

OPINION

By
Opinion
Catalyzing the Clean-energy Economy

A key issue facing the nation, and one that must be addressed by Steven Chu, President-elect Obama’s pick for secretary of Energy, is how best to transform the nation’s energy infrastructure, catalyze the clean-energy economy, and reach Obama’s goal of creating 2.5 million green jobs.

While there are aspects of energy transformation that demand central involvement by the federal government, the country’s tremendous record of innovation is based on the power of individuals in the private sector to identify problems, envision solutions, and pursue their dreams as entrepreneurs — often starting in their garages. This is precisely what fueled the explosion of computers and information technology, and it can drive the development of a new generation of clean-energy technology as well.

In order to make this happen, Chu should direct a far greater percentage of the department’s budget and resources outward — sparking more clean-energy research in our universities and research centers, accelerating new venture creation, and helping to scale proven technologies.

A powerful template for action can be found in New England’s recent surge as a clean-energy cluster. Massachusetts and the region have seen the number of clean-energy companies grow exponentially since 2006; this can and should be repeated elsewhere. Here are a small number of programs that could help create powerful clean-energy clusters around the country:

  • Clean-energy seed grant program. Using the Bay State’s Green Jobs Act as a model, the department should aid other states in developing a clean-energy seed grant program — offering grants to researchers and teams whose technology suggests commercial viability. The goal should be to engage the private sector (investors, entrepreneurs, university technologists) and provide a team of business-oriented coaches who can guide each grant recipient toward private funding and commercialization.
  • National lab technology transfer. To increase the flow of technology out of our national labs and into the marketplace, the department should reestablish a network of regional offices within all sizable clean-energy innovation centers that do not have a lab in proximity, such as Boston, Austin, and Portland. Each office would be tasked with connecting entrepreneurs, investors, and companies with researchers and emerging technologies at national labs, and be measured on the number of technology transfer deals completed.
  • Clean-energy boot camp. The department should offer funding for a series of regional clean-energy boot camps that put entrepreneurial executives through an intensive, energy-focused, executive education program — and speed the transition of critical talent into the clean-energy sector. The goal: offer executives a working knowledge of energy technologies, a basic understanding of energy markets and macro trends, and a network of contacts in the clean-energy field.
  • Clean-energy pilot plant development. The department should expand its loan guarantee program for helping clean-energy companies fund pilot plants. Such guarantees should be made through commercial banks (which would take on some risk for non-repayment) and should cover no more than 75% of the required capital — private investors would provide the rest. In this fashion, the risk profile of any loan would be lessened by the due diligence of both private investors and the banking institution.

    • Chu will be busy. There is a dizzying array of decisions to be made with regard to energy efficiency, renewables, and helping Congress formulate the market signals required to more quickly steer our society away from traditional, fossil-based energy.

    But most important, the new secretary must drive the department at the speed of business, utilizing public/private partnerships to catalyze private-sector action, if we are to achieve energy independence and a thriving clean-energy economy.-

    Nick d’Arbeloff is executive director of the New England Clean Energy Council. Hemant Taneja is a managing director at General Catalyst Partners, and the council’s co-chairman.

    By
    Departments

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

    Abelin, Michael Anthony
    33 Norman Ter. Apt. 60
    Feeding Hills, MA 01030
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Alvarado, Greychi
    a/k/a Perez, Greychi
    28 Allison Lane
    Indian Orchard, MA 01151
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Armitage, Charles R.
    Armitage, Marilyn E.
    416 Main St., Apt. 401
    Athol, MA 01331
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Armstrong, Michael J.
    26 Hamlin St. Apt. 4
    Pittsfield, MA 01201
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/21/08

    Babbin, Walter F.
    Babbin, Eleanor R.
    78 Superior Ave.
    Indian Orchard, MA 01151
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Baker, Nina M.
    334 School St.
    Agawam, MA 01001
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Barton, Robin D.
    30 Fairview St.
    Greenfield, MA 01301
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Blow, Bart D.
    Blow, Nancy A.
    14 Mayfair St.
    East Longmeadow, MA 01028
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Blue Moon Grocery Inc.
    Mascaro, Lisa M.
    41 Edwards Road
    Westhampton, MA 01027
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Brennan, Mary Ellen
    17 Mapleview Dr.
    West Stockbridge, MA 01266
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Brito, Jose R.
    Cotto, Sheila M.
    233 Seymour Ave.
    Springfield, MA 01109
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Burns, Daniel A.
    Burns, Patricia M.
    22 Highland Lane
    West Springfield, MA 01089
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Chartier, Joseph P.
    Chartier, Shari D.
    1808 North Main St.
    Palmer, MA 01069
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Chicaderis, Judith Star
    159 Leyden Road
    Greenfield, MA 01301
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Colon, Angel L.
    1279 Dwight St., 2nd Floor
    Holyoke, MA 01040
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Corporan, Inocencia S.
    663 Summer Ave.
    Springfield, MA 01108
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Cote’s Family Restaurant
    Cote, Michael Maurice
    Cote, Joanne Marie
    44 Spring St.
    Agawam, MA 01001
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Cox, Bernard
    PO Box 91211
    Springfield, MA 01139
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Crigger, Terresa K.
    a/k/a Sherman, Terresa K.
    321 Dorset St.
    Springfield, MA 01108
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Cromack, Brian D.
    111 Hollow Road
    Brimfield, MA 01010
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Czypryna, April A.
    Czypryna, Christopher S.
    60 South Liberty St.
    Belchertown, MA 01007
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Daneault, Nancy Ann
    519 East River St. Lot 8
    Orange, MA 01364
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Demarey, Dawn Marie
    280 Rock Valley Road
    Holyoke, MA 01040
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Depianta, Darren John
    Sendek, Cheryl M.
    37 Woodcrest Court
    Chicopee, MA 01020
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Desanctis, Tina M.
    28 Grassy Meadow Road
    Wilbraham, MA 01095
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Dias, Armind G.
    Dias, Julie A.
    27 Shirley St.
    Wilbraham, MA 01095
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Dosreis, David S.
    371 Main St.
    Indian Orchard, MA 01151
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Dowd-Ramos, Kerry Ann
    9 Cherryvale St.
    Chicopee, MA 01020
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Drawec, Patricia A.
    35 Paula Ave.
    Pittsfield, MA 01201
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Driscoll Photography
    Driscoll, John T.
    Driscoll, Andrea J.
    11 Bethel St.
    Springfield, MA 01108
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Drumm, Michelle A.
    742 Glendale Road
    Wilbraham, MA 01095
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Erskine, Thomas H.
    Erskine, Dianne E.
    156 Beekman Dr.
    Agawam, MA 01001
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Felix, Amaryllis
    Denizard, Amaryllis
    392 Allen Park Road
    Springfield, MA 01118
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Finch, Jason R.
    Finch, Amanda M.
    a/k/a Holden, Amanda M.
    16 Carpenter St.
    Orange, MA 01364
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/20/08

    Fleury, Jeannine R.
    a/k/a McBride, Jeannine R.
    16 Pearl Lena Court
    Chicopee, MA 01013
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Flores, Johanny
    Rosario, Jesus
    1143 Liberty St.
    Springfield, MA 01104
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Flowers by Sandra
    Polcaro, Sandra M.
    a/k/a Schlesinger, Sandra M.
    a/k/a Bucchio, Sandra M.
    18 Adah St.
    Athol, MA 01331
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Gaudette, Lawrence Edward
    P.O. Box 565
    South Deerfield, MA 01373
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Gebeau, Carlyle B.
    Minor, Susan A.
    79 Yorktown Dr.
    Springfield, MA 01108
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Gerald, Karen C.
    12 Feeding Hills Road
    Southwick, MA 01077
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Germain, Alice M.
    133 Jabish St. Apt. E5
    Belchertown, MA 01007
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Giard, Steven E.
    2092 Palmer Road
    Three Rivers, MA 01080
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Ginman, Ronald E.
    18 Lotus Ave.
    West Springfield, MA 01089
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Gleason, Christine A.
    44 Lake Ave.
    Orange, MA 01364
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Gorecki, Michelle M.
    14 Ashmont St.
    Chicopee, MA 01013
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Hodgson, Chester George
    19-B Brodeur St.
    Chicopee, MA 01013
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Hotte, Randy D.
    PO Box 695
    Chicopee, MA 01021
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Houle, James H.
    Houle, Patricia J.
    266 Miller St.
    Ludlow, MA 01056
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/20/08

    Howland, Roger G.
    146 Temby St.
    Springfield, MA 01118
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Jones, John P.
    Jones, Bonnie L.
    750 East St.
    Lee, MA 01238
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Kupperman, Mitchell J.
    115 Quinnehtuk Road
    Longmeadow, MA 01106
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    		  

    Lasorsa, Ronald Scott
    PO Box 1363
    Stockbridge, MA 01262
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    LeBlanc, Danielle Cecile
    24 Kaveney St.
    Chicopee, MA 01020
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Lezinski, Michael A.
    54 Athol St.
    Springfield, MA 01107
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Magnani, John P.
    Magnani, Debra B.
    69 Kenmore Dr.
    Longmeadow, MA 01106
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Marigliano, Mark J.
    Marigliano, Maria R.
    a/k/a Butler, Maria R.
    294 East Main St.
    Orange, MA 01364
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Martinez, Jacqueline
    82 Harvey St.
    Springfield, MA 01119
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Martinez, Juan B.
    Martinez, Nancy A.
    67 State St.
    Chicopee, MA 01013
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Martins, Neil V.
    Martins, Marti-Ann E.
    826 East St., Apt. 12
    Ludlow, MA 01056
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    McKinney, Awilda
    a/k/a Colon, Awilda
    477 Wilbraham Road
    Springfield, MA 01109
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Menard, Danielle D.
    61 Brookline Ave.
    Holyoke, MA 01040
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Mercado, Lourdes J.
    33 Salem St., Apt. 3A
    Springfield, MA 01105
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Molleur, Wayne G.
    Molleur, Dorene A.
    a/k/a Mongue-Molleur, Dorene A.
    22 Jordan St.
    Adams, MA 01220
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Morin, Jeffrey L
    25 1/2 East Bartlett St.
    Westfield, MA 01085
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Morrison, Mary C.
    1477 Roosevelt Ave.
    Springfield, MA 01109
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Murray, David M.
    17 Neptune Ave.
    West Springfield, MA 01089
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Niles, Steven A.
    21 Yarmouth St.
    Pittsfield, MA 01201
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Palucci, Mary Ann
    42 Clinton Ave.
    Pittsfield, MA 01201
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Pelaez, Yenny C.
    201 Orange St.
    Springfield, MA 01108
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Pelletier, Wayne John
    16 Ridge Hill Road
    Sturbridge, MA 01566
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/20/08

    Phillips, Garrett Ryan
    35 Shattuck St.
    Greenfield, MA 01301
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Pinard, Beth Jaye
    4 Princeton Ave.
    Easthampton, MA 01027
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/26/08

    Platenik, Jeffrey E.
    235 State St., Unit #2
    Springfield, MA 01103
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Popko, Susan K.
    49 Stewart Lane
    Agawam, MA 01001
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Provost, Jerome V.
    122 Bellwood Road
    Springfield, MA 01119
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Raposa-Gonet, Margaret
    37 Francis Ave.
    Holyoke, MA 01040
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Reynolds, Brian W.
    Reynolds, Diane L.
    15 Temple St.
    Holyoke, MA 01040
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Reynoso, Leocadio M.
    526 Dickinson St.
    Springfield, MA 01108
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Rodriguez, Enid
    80 Parkside Dr.
    Springfield, MA 01104
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Rodriguez, Nereida L.
    56 Terrence St.
    Springfield, MA 01109
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/20/08

    Rosario-Diaz, Luis A.
    P.O. Box 2602
    Holyoke, MA 01041
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Safford, Steven J.
    Safford, Barbara A.
    221 Chapin Road
    Hampden, MA 01036
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/16/08

    Santiago, Leonor
    20 Tracy St.
    Springfield, MA 01104
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Santos, Ivor R.
    Santos, Aletta P.
    118 Pasco Road
    Springfield, MA 01151
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Santos, Joseph A.
    Santos, Natalie P.
    230 Jeffrey Road
    Springfield, MA 01119
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/25/08

    Sevene, Rebecca L.
    368 Country Club Road
    Greenfield, MA 01301
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Seward, Wallace L.
    Seward, Sylvia A.
    43 Froman St.
    Athol, MA 01331
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Siano, Patricia I.
    17 Young Ave.
    East Longmeadow, MA 01028
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Streeter, Sandra
    PO Box 761
    Bernardston, MA 01337
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Sweet, Norman Mark
    Sweet, Judi Behan
    194 Redfern Dr.
    Longmeadow, MA 01106
    Chapter: 13
    Filing Date: 11/28/08

    Taveras-Rodriguez, Victoria M.
    124 Kirkland Ave.
    Ludlow, MA 01056
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/20/08

    Towne, Patrick J.
    Towne, Annalisa
    15 Walnut St.
    Ware, MA 01082
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/21/08

    Turgeon, Joseph R.
    Turgeon, Dorothy G.
    31 Keddy Blvd.
    Chicopee, MA 01020
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/20/08

    Velazquez, Maribel
    11 Raymond Place, Apt. 1
    Springfield, MA 01104
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Velez, Blanca I.
    310 Nottingham St.
    Springfield, MA 01104
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/24/08

    Vincent, Mary E.
    182 Butternut Hollow Road
    West Springfield, MA 01089
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/17/08

    Wallace, Anthony
    Wallace, Leslie
    21 Laurel Dr.
    Ware, MA 01082
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    Washburne, Samuel R.
    Washburne, Kelly
    25 West Glen St.
    Holyoke, MA 01040
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/16/08

    West, Benjamin C.
    West, Nadine M.
    a/k/a Rogers, Nadine M.
    46 Bissell Road
    Williamsburg, MA 01096
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Wiseman & Son Transportation
    Wiseman, James T.
    38 High St.
    Southampton, MA 01073
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/18/08

    Y-Knot Trucking
    Y-Knot Equine Center,
    Y-Knot Stable
    Petell, Oliver Edgar
    Petell, Carol Patricia
    a/k/a Cronin, Carol Patricia
    53 Center St.
    Granby, MA 01033
    Chapter: 7
    Filing Date: 11/19/08

    There Were Some Bright Spots in 2008

    By
    Opinion

    A Boston Globe sports columnist was writing recently from Seattle. He was trying to describe just how bad things are for the sports teams and their fans there, and he summoned this phrase: “reading the sports page here is like reading the business page everywhere else.”

    Ouch.

    That says a lot about how last place has become the mailing address for most teams in that city — but also about how painful it was, and is, to turn to the business section. It has been replete lately with stories about layoffs, failing banks, climbing mortgage-foreclosure rates, stocks tumbling hundreds of points on a regular basis, businesses closing, car dealers posting wretched numbers, and retailers having lousy months, quarters, shopping seasons (take your pick, they all work).

    Locally, residents were treated to all of the above, with specific examples ranging from the collapse of Skybus and the closing of its operation at Westover to the loss of SunEthanol (now Qteros) to the Worcester area, the closing of several car dealerships, and even Springfield’s ranking among the fastest-dying cities in the U.S.

    It wasn’t all bad. It just seemed that way.

    Amid the gloom and doom there were some bright spots, and in an attempt to maybe get 2009 off to a decent start, BusinessWest thought it would recount five of those positive stories. In no particular order:

    • A blueprint on workforce development. Toward the end of 2007, regional economic-development leaders initiated a program to improve the quality and quantity of the region’s workforce for the long term. Called Building a Better Workforce — Closing the Skills Gap on the Road to Economic Resurgence, the endeavor took its first major steps forward in ’08 with programs to put workers in the pipeline for the health care and precision-manufacturing sectors, and also increasing access to preschool. Perhaps more important, the first steps will get a number of businesses and institutions actively engaged in an issue of vital importance to the region’s future
    • The emergence of YPS. That’s the acronym for a group called the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, which, while only a few years old, seems to possess enormous potential to not only keep more young people in this region, but also help prepare them to be leaders — in business and the community.
    • New life for an old mill. Westmass Area Development Corp. announced plans to acquire the old Ludlow Manufacturing Associates complex in the center of that community. This is a 20- to 30-year proposition that looks to transform the nearly 1 million square feet of mill space and 79 acres of adjacent undeveloped land into a business and industrial center. At a time when the inventory of traditional greenfields is shrinking, the Ludlow development is an imaginative attempt to give companies more opportunities to move to and grow within the Pioneer Valley.
    • The start of a ‘green’ wave. Yes, the region will lose Qteros, one of the best emerging ‘green’ stories in Western Mass., but there are some other signs of potential growth in the realm of ‘green jobs.’ In Wilbraham, a company called FloDesign is making progress on a prototype that may revolutionalize the design of wind turbines. Meanwhile, in Greenfield, there are the makings of a ‘green’ cluster. And everywhere, there is a commitment to creating jobs in what looks like a sector with enormous promise. Stay tuned.
    • Liberty Mutual brings hundreds of jobs to Springfield. With what seems like a big assist from Gov. Patrick, Liberty Mutual announced that it would locate a call center in the Technology Park at STCC. Cynics will say that these are just call center jobs and that the company would have done the city more good if it had located downtown. The bottom line is that these are new jobs, and decent jobs, coming in a year when there weren’t many gains in that department. Meanwhile, a big part of this good story is the fact that Springfield triumphed over many other job-hungry cities in what became known as Project Evergreen.

      • There were other somewhat uplifting stories from 2008 that, while they didn’t obscure all the bad news, generated some hope for 2009 and well beyond. Let’s see if the region can build on this in the year ahead.

      By
      Departments

      Chicopee Bancorp Opens South Hadley Branch

      CHICOPEE — The newest Chicopee Savings Bank opened its doors on Dec. 15 at 32 Willimansett St., South Hadley. The full-service branch offers two drive-through teller windows, a 24-hour drive-up ATM, and night depository service. This is the bank’s seventh branch location, and as part of expansion plans, Chicopee Bancorp Inc., the holding company for Chicopee Savings Bank, is preparing to open its eighth branch in Ware later this month. Visit www.chicopeesavings.com for more information.

      Atlantic Fasteners Receives Lockheed Martin Contracts

      WEST SPRINGFIELD — Lockheed Martin recently awarded Atlantic Fasteners two-year contracts totaling $940,000. The aerospace division of Atlantic Fasteners won the contract bids in December, the largest to date in the division’s history. The contracts’ combined value is nearly five times higher than the division’s previous two-year contract with Lockheed Martin, according to Marc Dionne, director of the aerospace division. An authorized Lockheed Martin supplier since 2000, Atlantic’s aerospace division has earned exceptional quality and delivery ratings in the high 90s and often 100% from Lockheed Martin, according to Dionne. Dionne added that recent steps to increase the aerospace division’s national visibility by investing in technology have paid off, pointing to the recent introduction of online pricing as one example. Atlantic Fasteners now uses a bar-code inventory-management system and offers online ordering, RFID, and electronic invoicing. Through December 2010, Atlantic Fasteners will supply hundreds of fastener varieties to Lockheed Martin’s business units across the country. Atlantic Fasteners is an employee-owned company that stocks thousands of varieties of military, aerospace, and commercial fasteners.

      Lenox Softworks Launches Microscope Software Program

      LENOX — Lenox Softworks (LSW) recently debuted a Mac-compatible version of LX-ProScope HR, a customized version of the LUXUS software used with handheld USB microscopes. Patrick Consolati, product manager, noted that these capabilities make the LX-ProScope HR applicable to several industries, but its uses in health care are particularly diverse. Consolati added that its use in health care fields includes dermatology to evaluate skin changes. The technology creates a digital record of any fluctuations in a skin spot’s color or size and evaluates the overall health of skin and hair. Using the enhanced software, LX-ProScope HR provides for images to be captured at various screen resolutions, using an array of interchangeable, fixed lenses that magnify up to 400 times. The Windows version of the software was released by LSW last year. In addition to the recent Mac launch, Consolati said a host of new features have also been added to enhance both versions. LUXUS LX-ProScope HR was conceived in 2003 through a collaboration between LSW and Bodelin Technologies, based in Lake Oswego, Ore. Visit www.luxussoftware.com for more information.

      Baystate Medical Earns Fifth Beacon Award

      SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Medical Center’s Daly 6-2 Surgical Intermediate Care Unit has joined the ranks of the top health care teams in the nation, becoming one of only two such units to win the American Assoc. of Critical Care Nurses’ Beacon Award. Baystate has won five Beacon Awards altogether. The hospital’s Adult Intensive Care Unit (ICU) earlier this year won a critical care Beacon Award for the fourth consecutive time. Intermediate care units meet an important need for care for patients who are too sick for a standard medical-surgical unit but do not require the level of care provided in an ICU, according to Deborah Morsi, vice president of Patient Care Services for Baystate, and chief nursing officer for Baystate Health. Morsi commended the Daly 6-2 nursing and patient care team for their dedication and commitment to providing the best care to patients. As recipient of a Beacon, Daly 6-2 met rigid criteria for excellence, adhering to high standards of quality in leadership, recruiting, and training nurses, and caring for patients and their families.

      Loomis Communities Supports Nonprofits

      Throughout 2008, employees and residents of the Loomis Communities worked collaboratively to raise more than $19,000 in support of other nonprofit organizations across the region. Outreach efforts included conducting blood drives for Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Mercy Medical Center, and the American Red Cross, and selling Valentine’s Day cookies to benefit the American Heart Assoc. In addition, residents and staff participated in the daffodil sale and Relay for Life for the American Cancer Society, and partnered with the Sodexo Foundation with the Power of Change campaign to benefit the Food Bank of Western Mass. Organizations also benefiting from the Loomis Communities’ efforts included the Alzheimer’s Assoc., Brightside for Families and Children, and the Holyoke Visiting Nurse Assoc. Loomis Communities is a nonprofit continuing care retirement community that provides lifestyle and health care options to enrich the lives of older adults. The communities include Applewood at Amherst, Loomis House in Holyoke, and Loomis Village in South Hadley.

      Rockridge Residents Raise Money for Food Bank

      NORTHAMPTON — Once a month, Rockridge Retirement Community residents give up dessert for a day and instead donate that money to the Food Bank of Western Mass. During the holiday season, Rockridge residents presented their first $150 check to the Food Bank. Rockridge spends approximately $50 per day on making homemade desserts for residents, according to Diana Hitchcock, director of dining services. No-Dessert Day at Rockridge has allowed the community to donate $50 per month to the Food Bank. Beth Vettori, executive director at Rockridge, added that what the residents agreed to do reflects on the overall mission of the community. She noted that No-Dessert Day is a “powerful example” of the way residents inspire on a daily basis to give of themselves to help others in need.

      Insurance Center Answers the Call

      WEST SPRINGFIELD — After the recent ice storm that affected several hilltown counties, hundreds of calls regarding damage claims flooded into the Heritage Insurance Agency — which was also hit hard with electrical and communication outages. Its sister agency, the Insurance Center of New England, came to the rescue by deploying resources to answer customers’ calls and concerns about the damages to their property. The Insurance Center was able to redirect calls to its West Springfield location from customers calling to report claims on their cell phones. The Insurance Center of New England is a division of ICNE Group, a regional insurance agency for commercial products, group employee benefits, and personal insurance lines based in West Springfield. ICNE Group also operates offices in Chicopee, Gardner, Athol, Danvers, Fitchburg, Lowell, and Winchendon.

      MBA Foundation Donates to WestMass ElderCare

      HOLYOKE — An early holiday present was delivered recently by the Mass. Bankers Assoc. Foundation to the offices of WestMass ElderCare Inc., for its ongoing charitable purposes. Celebrating its 12th anniversary, the foundation awarded $5,000 to WestMass ElderCare through the nomination of PeoplesBank. WestMass ElderCare programs include elder home care, congregate and home-delivered meals, personal care management, adult foster care, nursing home ombudsmen, money management, and supportive housing programs. More than 3,000 individuals are served through its programs and services, according to Priscilla Chalmers, executive director of WestMass ElderCare. Chalmers noted that the organization was “extremely humbled” by the acknowledgement. The MBA Foundation has contributed more than $1 million to community organizations since it was created in 1996.

      By
      Departments

      The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2008.

      AGAWAM

      Edward T. Mish Silversmith
      214 Springfield St.
      Edward T. Mish

      G.D Business Ventures
      37 Elizabeth St.
      Gary Dionne

      AMHERST

      Emily’s Vision Co.
      381 Flat Hills Road
      Emily O. Sweet

      KF Web Development
      340 Riverglade Dr.
      Fabrice Ketchaken

      CHICOPEE

      A-Certive Removal Services
      72 Arcade St.
      Justin Dansereau

      Dance For Joy
      222 Langevin St.
      Dawn Jarrell

      J & G Repair Services
      32 Granville Ave.
      John F. Thomas

      RS Computer Solutions
      232 Exchange St.
      Rolando Santos

      Sisters C
      234 Langevin St.
      Phyllis L. McComaha

      EAST LONGMEADOW

      Avalanche Landscape Design
      40 Crane Ave.
      Eric Weichselbaumer

      A.W. Brown TBW Inc.
      144 Shaker Road
      Thomas B. Wheeler

      Foy Miller Associates
      14 Overbrook Road
      Foy M. Miller

      Learning Styles, LLC
      34 Shaker Road
      Susan T. Fino

      Mec’s Landscaping Inc.
      32 Hampden Road
      Alessandro F. Meccia

      Omega Cleaners of East Longmeadow Inc.
      14 Harkness Ave.
      Joo B. Lee

      GREENFIELD

      Gingi Enterprises
      278 Main St.
      Eugene T. Vanasse

      HADLEY

      Valley Bookkeeping
      100 Venture Way
      Janet Jefflon

      HOLYOKE

      Downtown Delight
      285 High St.
      Carol Ann Stewart

      Go Games
      50 Holyoke St.
      Neil Aubuchon

      Greasecar Vegetable Fuel Systems
      933 Main St.
      Justin J. Carven

      Holyoke Tire & Auto Services Inc.
      1274 Dwight St.
      Peter Kearning

      Manny’s Market
      157 Sargeant St.
      Nelson Azcona

      LONGMEADOW

      Berkshire Facial Surgery Inc.
      171 Dwight St.
      P. Anthony Perry

      Brian Sullivan Photography
      79 Allen Road
      Brian Sullivan

      Comprehensive Consulting Associates
      144 Cooley Dr.
      Michelle Aube

      Paine in the Glass
      18 Maplewood St.
      Richard Miner

      NORTHAMPTON

      DPI Communications
      32 Gregory Lane
      E. Katerina Missry

      Power Dog
      123 Hawley St.
      Elizabeth E. Powers

      The Benefit Partnership
      7 Main St.
      Michael Ippolito

      The Zen Den Massage Therapy
      45 Main St.
      Adrian S. Richmond


      		  

      PALMER

      Muscles in Motion
      4023 Main St.
      Adelei Bernard

      SOUTH HADLEY

      Crack of Dawn
      20 Bridge St.
      Frederick Wohlers

      Griffin Online Solutions
      333 Granby Road
      Rita M. Griffin

      Houles Family Catering
      50 Lamb St.
      Michael Houle

      R & L Home and Business Inventory
      9 Woodcrest Lane
      Robert Lewko

      Stoney’s Pub
      1-3 Bridge St.
      Jay Hebert

      SOUTHWICK

      Silver Threads
      63 Hastings Road
      Jean Lamaureaux

      SNO Software
      8 Pine Knoll
      Austin Snow

      SPRINGFIELD

      Laksom Gallery of Fine Art
      28 Parker St.
      Gary J. Moskal

      Liberty Jean Co.
      260 Worthington St.
      Shamika Santos

      Lil This And That Boutique
      240 Walnut St.
      Suzette M. Cotton

      Litchfield Plumbing
      493 Forest Hills Road

      Pay Less Oil
      2 Amboy Court
      Robert Paquette

      Perez Landscaping & Snow
      1157 Sumner Ave.
      Edwin Perez Sr.

      R.M. Sullivan Transportation
      649 Cottage St.
      Therese S. Walch

      RHJ Productions
      28 West Laramee Green
      Tina Griffin-Clark

      Sky-Com
      1179 State St.
      Kenny Nguyen

      Springfield City Church
      34 Goodwin St.
      Glenroy Bristol

      The School Store
      43 Northampton Ave.
      Henry George Cockett

      Vance Advertising
      76 Palo Alto Road
      David Behnk

      Wholesale Auto Outlet
      480 Central St.
      Attilio Cardaropoli

      Young Oh Lucky Cleaners
      1003 St. James Ave.
      Young J. Oh

      WESTFIELD

      A Time To Grow
      6 Mainline Dr.
      Cheryl Ouelette

      Affordable Technologies
      24 Green Pine Lane
      Sharon Menard

      Billy C’s Jerky, LLC
      236 Elm St.
      William Chaoush

      Second Company
      92 Little River Road
      Patricia A. Castro

      WEST SPRINGFIELD

      Adults Only
      2025 Riverdale St.
      Daniel Andrew Crespo

      Bertelli’s Skate Shop
      726 Main St.
      Jay Passerini

      Duquette Electric Co.
      395 Morgan Road
      James A. Duquette

      E-Zee Mart
      662 Kings Hwy
      Fawad A. Khawaja

      Lynn Roofing
      216 Day St.
      Brian Perdue

      Michael Vincent Photography
      97 Lancaster Ave.
      Michael V. Epaul

      By
      Departments

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

      EAST LONGMEADOW

      Full Moon International Inc., 15 Benton Dr. East Longmeadow 01028. Oytun Troy, c/o Benza Erden, 136 Silver Birch, Longmeadow 01106. Import and export of various consumer goods.

      Grade A Floors Inc., 15 Benton Dr., East Longmeadow 01028. Laurie A. Oyler, same. Sales/flooring.

      FEEDING HILLS

      MACD Enterprises Inc., 525 Springfield St. Feeding Hills 01030. Mark Danalis, 96 Edmund St. East Longmeadow 01028. Full-service restaurant.

      GRANBY

      CCLI Corporation 4 Jerry Lane, Granby 01033. Crescenzo Calabrese, same. To operate a restaurant.

      GREENFIELD

      Greenfield Bancorp MHC, 63 Federal St., Greenfield 01301. E. Tucker, 26 Lawler Dr., Easthampton 01027. Accumulating, loaning, and investing the savings of its members.

      Jesse Leasing Company Inc., 52 River St., Greenfield 01301-3117. Cynthia Stasny, Same. Equipment leasing.

      HOLYOKE

      Carlos Torres Productions Inc., 2 Ivy Ave, Holyoke 01040. Alex Torres, Same. Artist management and representation.

      PITTSFIELD

      Ice River Springs USA Inc., 66 West St., Pittsfield 01201. James Fallis Gott, Grey Road 31, Feversham, Ontario NOC ICO. To engage in the ownership, improvement, development, maintenance, and management of real estate.

      		 

      SPRINGFIELD

      DevelopSpringfield Corporation, 1441 Main St., Suite 111, Springfield 01103
      Gary Fialky, 70 Yorktown Dr. Springfield 01108. To aid in the speedy and orderly development or redevelopmentn of property in the city of Springfield.

      MEME Air Inc., 35 Fern St., Springfield 01108. Mymie Pham, same. Aircraft rental.

      Patriot Fence and railing designs Inc., 50 Trumbull St., Springfield, MA 01104. Jason Simmons, 72 Church St. West Springfield 01089. To engage in the sale, construction, and installation of commercial and residential fences.

      Roger L. Putnam Technical Fund Inc., 1380 Main St., Springfield 01103. Franklin York Mayo, 73 High Pine Circle, Wilbraham 01095. To support current and future training courses and programs at Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical High School and to solicit public and private contributions, including machinery and equipment.

      Royal Beauty Supply Corp. 1104 State St., Springfield 01009. Elizabeth Kro, 11 Fisher St., Springfield, MA 01009. Beauty supplies.

      WESTFIELD

      Real Irish Inc., 37 Broad St., Westfield 01085 William P. Farrell, 90 Bigwood Dr., Westfield 01085. To engage in the production and publication of commemorative items for sale to the general public.

      William Farrell, Counselor at law, P.C. 37 Broad St., Westfield 01085. William P. Farrell, same. To practice law and provide legal services to individuals and corporate entities.

      WILBRAHAM

      US Tae Kwon Do Education Foundation Inc., 28 Stoney Hill Road, Wilbraham 01095. Chun Ja Kim, 215 Chislak Dr., Ludlow 01056.To promote sportsmanship in young people.

      By
      Departments

      Northampton Cooperative Bank has promoted Tracey E. Egloff to Vice President. Egloff, the bank’s loan officer, oversees the residential-loan department, supervising underwriting compliance, approving loans and facilitating closings.

      •••••

      Dr. Carolyn J. Brown has joined the Jewish Geriatric Services Family Medical Care practice. Brown is board-certified in internal medicine and has practiced medicine in the Pioneer Valley for more than 25 years.

      •••••

      Florence Savings Bank announced the following:
      • Edward J. Garbacik has been elected Vice President, Investment Executive, of Financial Services;
      • Robert S. Allen has been elected Assistant Officer of the Compliance Department;
      • Linda M. Bates has been elected Vice President, Project Director, of the Operations Department, and
      • Ian T. Vukovich has been elected Project Officer of the Human Resources Department.

      •••••

      Janel Beaulieu has been named the Business Development and Sales Manager at TD Banknorth in Hadley.

      •••••

      Baystate Dental has added Dr. Nadia Church to the general dentistry practice. Church is welcoming new patients at all six Baystate Dental locations.

      •••••

      PeoplesBank in Holyoke announced the following:
      • Sheila F. King-Goodwin has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Retail Banking;
      • Stacy A. Sutton has been promoted to First Vice President, Retail Banking;
      • Joseph R. Zazzaro has been promoted to First Vice President, Information Technology, and
      • Duane H. Camp has been promoted to First Vice President, Consumer Lending.

      •••••

      Family Wealth Management Inc. announced that Doug Wheat has joined the company as a Financial Planner.

      •••••

      Kira Dunn has been named Executive Director of the Mass. Commission on the Status of Women in Boston. The organization conducts public hearings across the state to assess the issues of most importance to women in the Commonwealth, and also conducts the annual Unsung Heroines of Massachusetts Awards at the State House each spring.

      •••••

      Deborah A. Geisler has been named Branch Manager of the ninth full-service branch office of Hampden Bank in Longmeadow.

      •••••

      MassMutual Retirement Services in Springfield announced the following:
      • Ian Sheridan has been named President of First Mercantile Trust;
      • Stan Label has been appointed Vice President and National Sales Manager for First Mercantile, and
      • Four members of First Mercantile’s existing management have been named to Sheridan’s senior leadership team. Alan Dunaway, Vice President, Business Development, will oversee First Mercantile’s key accounts, TPA channel, and the distributor development unit headed by Susan Conrad. James Pratt will continue to lead First Mercantile’s finance operation, including oversight of the company’s operations team led by Pamela Greenwood, Director of Operations.

      •••••

      Cary Szafranski has been hired as an Associate Attorney at Gelinas & Lefebvre, P.C. in Chicopee.

      •••••

      Holly J. Fuller has been elected by the Easthampton Savings Bank Board of Directors to serve as Branch Officer at the Locust Street office in Northampton.

      •••••

      Holyoke Medical Center announced the following:
      • Dr. David Tupponce has been elected President of the Medical Staff;
      • Dr. Vijay Gandevia has been elected Vice President of the Medical Staff, and
      • Dr. Brigid Glackin has been elected Secretary/Treasurer.

      •••••

      Peter Pan Bus Lines in Springfield announced the following:
      • Bruce Westcott has been named Vice President of Business Development. He is responsible for sales and marketing strategies for Peter Pan Bus Lines and the Peter Pan-owned companies Camfour-Hill Country and Belt Technologies.
      • Joanne Berwald has been named Director of Human Resources.

      •••••

      Kerry A. Haberlin has joined Rankin & Sultan, based in Boston, as an Associate. Haberlin previously served as a judicial intern for The Honorable Bruce M. Selya of the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. She also interned for the Joint Committee on Public Service, Massachusetts General Court.

      By
      Departments

      Soup Kitchen Donation

      Chicopee Savings Bank participated in a check presentation from the Mass. Bankers Assoc. (MBA) Charitable Foundation to Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen on Center Street in Chicopee. From left are William Wagner, Chicopee Savings Bank president and CEO; Lorraine Houle, director of Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen; Michael Williams, a member of the Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen board of directors, chairman of its fund-raising committee, and vice president of the Chicopee Savings Financial Services Center; Berdie Thompson, charitable gifts coordinator for Chicopee Savings; Dan Forte, president and CEO of the MBA; and Jerry Roy, president of the Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen board of directors.

      Scholarship Winner

      Springfield Technical Community College Energy Systems Technology student Jamie Tomas receives a $2,000 scholarship from W.W. Grainger, a supplier of facilities-maintenance products serving business and institutions in Canada, China, Mexico, and the U.S. Tomas, of Indian Orchard, is one of only 35 students in the U.S. to receive the award this year. From left are Michael Siciliano, Energy Systems Technology professor at STCC; John Duffy, branch manager, Industrial Supply Division at Grainger; Tomas; Robert Bujak, department chair, Energy Systems Technology at STCC; and Bill Piccolo, district branch service manager for Grainger.

      By
      Departments

      Editor’s Note:

      For this issue, BusinessWest begins a new feature called, simply, ‘10 Points.’ As the name suggests, it provides 10 quick but important points about a given subject. Over the coming months, writers contributing to this space will touch on matters ranging from non-compete agreements to wills; from choosing a general contractor to writing a business plan. For this issue, the subject is blogging. If you would like to contribute to ‘10 Points,’ please submit your idea to [email protected]

      By Christine Pilch

      1. Blogging requires a serious time commitment. You must post at least once per week, every week. In other words, a neglected blog is worse than none at all.

      2. One of the fastest ways to get your blog noticed is by posting comments on other relevant blogs, with a link back to yours.
      3. The blogosphere is a community, so you should expect to be engaged by others.
      4. Two of the most popular blogging platforms are Google’s free Blogger and SixApart’s paid TypePad. You do get what you pay for in this instance.

      5. Popular blogs are often written in the first person. This is an opportunity to allow your readers, clients, and prospects to get to know you as a person.

      6. Your blog can drive traffic to your Web site and vice-versa.
      7. Search engines love blogs because the content is constantly fresh.
      8. Blogs without pictures are boring, so you should have access to photos and possess basic photo-editing skills.
      9. You must be a good writer. Although the tone may be casual, spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors will keep you from being taken seriously.
      10. In the blogosphere, it is perfectly acceptable to republish another blogger’s work as long as you credit them. No permission is required, but it’s nice to make a request just the same.
      Christine Pilch is a partner with Grow My Company and a social-media networking strategist. She collaborates with professional service firms to get results through innovative positioning strategies: (413) 537-2474; growmyco.com; “Miracle Growth for Your Company.”

      OPINION

      By
      Opinion
      A Head-on Approach to Green-based Prosperity

      As our nation struggles with the global economic crisis, President-elect Obama and Congress must find the right measures to stimulate the economy today and invest wisely to create sustained prosperity. Obama recognizes an extraordinary opportunity exists to restart the economy and combat the threat of global warming by launching a green New Deal, but our long-term success greatly depends on educating skilled workers for new technical fields.

      Obama has outlined an immediate plan to create 2.5 million jobs through green-based initiatives, such as building wind farms and solar panels. This first step must be complemented with a long-term strategy that improves the environmental and economic sustainability of our nation.

      Through a national green initiative, centered at our public research universities, we can meet this challenge and emerge with a more sustainable environment and economy in the short and longer term.

      This national green initiative, which would be launched in coordination with the flagship research universities across the country, would have three parts but one simple goal — building the human and capital infrastructure necessary to compete in the decades ahead, while simultaneously infusing millions of dollars into the private sector right away in building the facilities needed to create tomorrow’s green technology breakthroughs.

      The federal government would create a loan-forgiveness program that would allow students in science, technology, engineering, and math to have their student loans partially or completely forgiven in return for a multi-year commitment to teaching in these fields in K-12 schools. Every state is facing shortages in qualified teachers, and at a time when the job market is increasingly difficult, there’s never been a better time to encourage bright, young people to become teachers.

      To educate these students, each state’s public research university would develop a proposal to build or renovate the laboratories and classrooms necessary to train both workers and educators in math and sciences as well as environmental sciences and related fields. These facilities would drive innovation and research breakthroughs as well as provide valuable learning space. To support this, the federal government would establish a $50 billion fund for such construction across the nation, and encourage universities to match these federal funds with state and private support. At the same time, the universities would be required to plan to work with the educational systems in their state to increase the numbers of students in these fields, and to offer current teachers access to these facilities for improved training.

      For this plan to work, these efforts must be aimed at improving the learning environment across the state, and our public research universities are uniquely positioned to drive this effort.

      Each of these construction projects must meet the latest green-building standards, and the bid process should require that local workers in each of the states be employed on these projects — thereby training a whole new cadre of workers in the latest sustainable technologies. In addition, faculty at these universities should be directly involved in the project development to ensure that not only are these facilities as green as possible, but that they meet the teaching and research needs of our next generation of students and teachers, as well as for training our workforce of the future.

      While this idea is, in many ways, very simple, it will require our government and universities to work closely together, to eliminate unnecessary bureaucracy and to move right away on these projects. It will also require our universities to fully engage the community colleges and other higher-educational institutions in a partnership.

      We must, as a nation, address head-on the issue of energy self-sufficiency while combating global climate change. We must create jobs and financial security now, even as we attempt to prepare for an uncertain future.-

      Robert C. Holub is chancellor of UMass Amherst.

      A Time of Challenge and Opportunity

      By
      Opinion

      A few months ago, a contributing columnist to BusinessWest suggested retiring the phrase ‘hunkering down.’ He said that, overall, the term doesn’t really mean anything anymore (if it ever did), but that if there is a connotation, it is generally a sense of ducking and dodging.

      Webster’s Collegiate states only that ‘hunker’ means to squat or crouch, and that the word is, in fact, generally used with ‘down,’ although that sounds somewhat redundant.

      And if people are going to continue to use that phrase with regard to the recession and their efforts to withstand or survive it, then it should be retired. That’s because this region doesn’t need a lot of hunkering, or even hunkering down, right now.

      Instead, as business-management experts state in an informal guide to getting to the other side of this recession in this issue, it needs some imaginative thinking and determination to grow, and not merely survive. What the experts say, and they’re right, is that, while this may be a time of challenge — or extreme challenge for those in some sectors — it is also a time of opportunity, if people choose to view it as such and have the daring not to merely hunker down.

      Such daring remains a foreign concept to many, including most of those who remember what 1990 and 1982 were like. The phones in their offices stopped ringing — unless they were in the bill-collection business — and didn’t start ringing again for years.

      In response, many did some real hunkering, and in the process they probably missed out on some excellent business opportunities, while helping to deepen those recessions in the process.

      We know that’s it’s very easy to preach such action, and much harder to do it. The ‘experts’ (yes, that word needs quotation marks around it) pull out some well-worn rhetorical phrases like ‘be active, not reactive,’ and ‘thrive, not simply survive,’ which are overused and can sound as trite as ‘hunkering down.’

      But they’re right.

      While it goes against some of their most basic of instincts, now is a time when business owners should be thinking imaginatively and perhaps taking some steps they normally take only when those handling both accounts receivable and accounts payable sound much more upbeat.

      This might be the time to find new ways to collaborate with other businesses and organizations to create new revenue streams that will yield dividends long after the recession is declared over. Likewise, this could — and should — be the time to make sure your company is providing relevant products and services and that customers are receiving what they demand most — value.

      This is also a time, as one expert stated, when business owners and managers should be exploring what would be considered missed opportunities — such as the huge and still-growing Hispanic market and other ethnic populations — to turn such misses into hits.

      Meanwhile, this is definitely the time to look at operations, procedures, and personnel to make sure one’s company is being as efficient as it can be. This sounds like a no-brainer, but businesses don’t do enough of this whether the economy is bad or good.

      In summation, those ‘I Refuse to Participate in a Recession’ buttons are good, clever, and practical. But the wearers need to back up the words with actions.

      If they don’t, those words are hollow and somewhat meaningless — just like ‘hunkering down.’

      By
      Departments

      Boston Wine Festival

      January 10-April 3: Hosted by the Boston Harbor Hotel on Rowes Wharf, the Boston Wine Festival offers more than 50 wine and food pairing events. The schedule of events includes a variety of evening receptions, wine seminars, dinners, and themed Sunday brunches. For details on the festival, visit www.bostonwinefesival.net.

      Long-term Planning Seminar

      January 13: As part of a joint effort to educate the public about the importance of long-term care planning and insurance and the role it can play in helping to finance assisted living, Rockridge Retirement Community on Coles Meadow Road in Northampton will host an informational seminar to increase long-term care insurance awareness. Richard A. Eisenberg of Eisenberg Associates Insurance Agency Inc. will present the 4 p.m. seminar, which will discuss the long-term care planning process, long-term care insurance, and assisted living. The seminar is free and open to the public; however, reservations are required by calling (413) 586-2902, ext. 23.

      New Year’s Gala

      Dec. 31: The inaugural Young Professional Society (YPS) of Greater Springfield New Year’s Eve Gala on Dec. 31 at the Sheraton Springfield is nearly sold out. Interested parties, of any age, are invited to grab the last spots as YPS celebrates New Year — New Time: Springfield Shines In ’09. The theme of the YPS New Year’s Eve event is a celebration of not only the new year, but pride in the city of Springfield. Presented by NUVO Bank and supported by Williams Distributing and BusinessWest, the event is offering only 300 tickets; prices are $59 for one ticket, $109 for two tickets, and $209 per couple with overnight accommodations (plus additional room tax and fees) at the Sheraton Springfield. Final tickets are on sale at www.springfieldyps.com. The evening includes three different party rooms with a live band, Decades by Dezyne, and a DJ, with all guests receiving a ‘goodie bag’ with a number of offerings from sponsors. The night will also offer gourmet dinner stations, a dessert station, and a champagne toast after the ball has dropped at midnight. In addition, a continental breakfast will be served after midnight. Interested parties may go directly to www.springfieldyps.com to purchase tickets. Guests do not have to be YPS members to attend. Opportunities to sponsor this event are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Any company interested in reaching young professionals, call Jill Monson at (413) 219-9692 or E-mail [email protected].

      By
      Departments

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

      Albert, Catherine Ann
      a/k/a Borah, Catherine A.
      547 Maple Road
      Longmeadow, MA 01106
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/03/08

      Allen, Krishel Pearl
      2275 Westfield St.
      Westfield, MA 01085
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Altis, Jean
      150 Linden St.
      Holyoke, MA 01040
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Anne Belue Design
      Wright, Anne B.
      Anne, Wilson
      AB Sales
      773 Moore Hill Road
      Athol, MA 01331
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Blankenship, Alan C.
      37 Basil Road
      Chicopee, MA 01020
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/12/08

      Brodeur, Donald J.
      158 California Ave.
      Pittsfield, MA 01201
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      Brown, Larry E.
      29 Pine Hill Road
      Easthampton, MA 01027
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/30/08

      Brown, Molly-Beth
      1 Autumn Lane
      Amherst, MA 01002
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/05/08

      Campbell, Carrie C.
      169 Kendall St.
      Granby, MA 01033
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Cape, Antony Robert
      39 Paige St.
      Amherst, MA 01002
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/05/08

      Converse, Scott A.
      59 New Ludlow Road
      Chicopee, MA 01020
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/05/08

      Cosme, Mercedes
      85-87 Mooreland St.
      Springfield, MA 01104-1826
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      Cyr, Roland Joseph
      Cyr, Martha Ouellette
      7 Warner St.
      South Hadley, MA 01075
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/30/08

      De La Rosa, Ismael
      a/k/a Soto, Ismael
      1004 Allen St.
      Springfield, MA 01118
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/06/08

      Deluck, Frederick C.
      Deluck, Diana M.
      44 Vadnais St.
      Springfield, MA 01104
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      Discovery Corner Childcare
      Western Mass RV Rentals
      LaPointe, Shawn E.
      51 Oak Brook Dr.
      East Longmeadow, MA 01028
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Dixe, Michael A.
      Dixe, Jillian L.
      17 Hartford St.
      South Hadley, MA 01075
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/06/08

      Garcia, Annie
      Torres, Annie
      70 Patton St., Apt. 1B
      Springfield, MA 01104
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/14/08

      Girouard, Carl L.
      20 East Bartlett St.
      Westfield, MA 01085
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Goldthwaite, Scott A.
      Casella-Goldthwaite, Darlene E.
      48 High Knob Road
      Athol, MA 01331
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Handy, Bradley C.
      10 Leemond St.
      Wilbraham, MA 01095
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      Hastie, Cheryl A.
      330 Commonwealth Ave.
      Springfield, MA 01108
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Jorge, Angel
      23 Brandon Ave.
      Springfield, MA 01119
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Kroll, Christopher
      Kroll, Kimberly Jean
      66 Fair St.
      Chicopee, MA 01020
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Lacombe, Lynn C. R.
      62 Thyme Lane
      Springfield, MA 01129
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/03/08

      Littlefield, Michelle M.
      Littlefield, Wayne S.
      PO Box 374
      Feeding Hills, MA 01030
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/05/08

      Lopes, Saville Shirley, D.
      3 Bradlind Ave.
      Wilbraham, MA 01095
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/05/08

      Maldonado, Francisco G.
      61 Arthur St.
      Springfield, MA 01104
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      McAuliffe, Edward F.
      McAuliffe, Carol A.
      86 Enfield Dr.
      Orange, MA 01364
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      McCorquodale, Jeffrey M.
      McCorquodale, Carol .
      31 Mattawa Circle
      Orange, MA 01364
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/01/08

      Merchant, Elissa Ann
      71 Stony Hill Road
      Wilbraham, MA 01095
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Mercier, James Herbert
      539 Sanders St.
      Athol, MA 01331
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Nguyen, Tung T.
      192 Dickenson 1st Fl.
      Springfield, MA 01108
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      		  

      Ostrander, I. C.
      a/k/a Ostrander, Irving C.
      PO Box 1082
      West Springfield, MA 01090
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/07/08

      Pasterczyk, Timothy Francis
      38 Brookline Ave.
      Feeding Hills, MA 01030
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/12/08

      Perez, Arnaldo L.
      a/k/a Harrison, Sara E.
      a/k/a Perez-Diaz, Arnaldo L.
      a/k/a Perez, Sara E.
      3 Elm St.
      Southampton, MA 01073
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Pham, Thuy Thi
      104 Draper St.
      Springfield, MA 01118
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      Piascik, Gary J.
      Piascik, Kyle A.
      70 Beeler Ave.
      Chicopee, MA 01020
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/06/08

      Pitoniak, Kelly J.
      117 Yeoman Ave.
      Westfield, MA 01085
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Racine, Kimberley J.
      38 High St.
      North Adams, MA 01247
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/31/08

      Reopel, Katarzyna
      41 Orleander St.
      W. Springfield, MA 01089
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Reyes, Dennis R.
      Reyes, Aida L.
      37 Higgins Circle
      Springfield, MA 01104
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/07/08

      RMN Real Estate
      Sanschagrin, David D.
      Sanschagrin, Meredith E.
      a/k/a Santy, Meredith
      70 Elm St.
      Agawam, MA 01001
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Romano, Carmelina
      33 Humbert St.
      Springfield, MA 01109
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/11/08

      Rossell, Bernard Daves
      2 Cornwall Dr.
      Great Barrington, MA 01230
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Rust, Steven R.
      PO Box 277
      Warren, MA 01083
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/30/08

      Sainsbury, Gary I.
      Sainsbury, Karin E.
      a/k/a Brown, Karin
      39 Kingman Road
      Amherst, MA 01002
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/12/08

      Santos, Lisa Marie
      a/k/a Salvador, Lisa Marie
      PO Box 41
      Ludlow, MA 01056
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Santos, Miriam
      70 Riverdale St.
      West Springfield, MA 01089
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Small, Ingrid E.
      5 Temple St., Apt. 502
      Springfield, MA 01105
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/06/08

      Smith, Kathryne E.
      10 Kirkland St.
      Agawam, MA 01001
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Starkweather, Emily Ridout
      26 Chestnut Court
      Amherst, MA 01002
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Stasiowski, Catherine Irene
      470 Broadway St.
      Chicopee, MA 01020
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/30/08

      Taupier, Alan T.
      Taupier, Dorothy H.
      96 Pinehurst Road
      Holyoke, MA 01040
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/07/08

      Tillotson, Matthew W.
      34 Harvey St.
      Chicopee, MA 01020
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Torff, Allene B.
      832 Converse St., Apt.
      Longmeadow, MA 01106
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Torres, Juan A.
      1104 Dwight St.
      Springfield, MA 01107
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/14/08

      Tryon, Herbert L.
      Tryon, Jeanne M.
      57 Lenox Circle
      East Longmeadow, MA 01028
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      Urena, Mario R.
      Urena, Patricia I.
      5 Baird Trace
      Springfield, MA 01118
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 10/30/08

      Vallecillo, Patricia
      170 Cambria St.
      Springfield, MA 01118
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/13/08

      Vasquez, Fernando T.
      a/k/a Vasquez, Tony
      11 Littleton St.
      Springfield, MA 01104
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/12/08

      Vescovi, Jessie L.
      1149 Pleasant St.
      Athol, MA 01331
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/10/08

      Ward, Janice L.
      47 Bradford Dr.
      West Springfield, MA 01089
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/07/08

      Weissman, Gordon R.
      174 Abbott St.
      Springfield, MA 01118
      Chapter: 7
      Filing Date: 11/06/08

      Zlogar, Kay
      502 Belchertown Road
      Amherst, MA 01002
      Chapter: 13
      Filing Date: 11/04/08

      By
      Departments

      The following building permits were issued during the month of December 2008.

      AGAWAM

      Paul Chevalier
      111 Industrial Lane
      $65,000 — Construct office addition to existing metal building

      David R. Northup
      73 Bowles Road
      $6,000 — Install pre-engineered steel mezzanine

      AMHERST

      Amherst College Trustees
      Heating Plant
      $13,000 — Installation of slab for gas compressor

      CHICOPEE

      Deslauriers Fleming LLC
      30 Florence St.
      $9,500 — Renovate interior of apartment

      Service Net
      66 Fifth St.
      $12,000 — New roof

      Tunstall Association
      964 Sheridan St.
      $33,000 — New roof

      US Tsubaki, Inc.
      106 Lonczak Dr.
      $39,500 — Insulate and install new shingles

      EASTHAMPTON

      Autumn Properties
      422 Machine St.
      $3,100 — Erect fence along property line

      City of Easthampton
      200 Park St.
      $247,000 — Renovation and repair of pool area at school

      Joanne O’Leary
      1 Campus Lane
      $5,000 — Install vinyl siding

      Stawarz Realty Trust
      55-63 Union St.
      $36,000 — New roof

      Williston Northampton School
      11 Payson Ave.
      $6,000 — Install vinyl siding

      GREENFIELD

      Troy Renaud
      8 North Circle
      $2,300 — Re-roof
      HOLYOKE

      Holyoke Mall Co., LP
      50 Holyoke St.
      $172,000 — Remodel existing Champs store

      Holyoke Medical Center
      575 Beech St.
      $47,000 — Repair existing exterior block wall

      O’C Ingleside LLC
      361 Whitney Ave.
      $1,871,000 — Develop 10,000 square feet of space into laboratory

      Open Square Properties LLC
      110 Lyman St.
      $20,000 — Build tenant space

      Varick Pelton
      5 Canal St.
      $4,700 — Re-roof

      		  

      LUDLOW

      Pioneer Investment Group
      126 Nash Hill Road
      $5,000 – Siding

      Pioneer Investment Group
      126 Nash Hill Road
      $5,000 — Window replacement

      NORTHAMPTON

      Cooley Dickinson Hospital Inc.
      30 Locust St.
      $65,000 — Renovate business office

      Coolidge Center LLC
      225 King St.
      $1,839,500 — Construct 11,640-square-foot retail pharmacy building

      Florence Savings Bank
      85 Main St.
      $16,000 — Install Carlisle Roofing system

      Nonotuck Mill LLC
      296 Nonotuck St.
      $18,000 — Interior partitions and handicap ramp

      Rocky Hill Co-Housing LLC
      100 Black Birch Trail
      $19,000 — Install solar electric array at the Common House

      SOUTHWICK

      Shepard Corporation
      56 Sam West Road
      $330,000 — Construction of steel building for automobile recycling facility

      SPRINGFIELD

      Baystate Health Inc.
      759 Chestnut St.
      $12,000 — Permanent and temporary retaining walls and excavation for foundation

      James E. Mastowski
      1954 Wilbraham Road
      $9,000 — Install footings, foundation, and slab

      Marwan Awkal
      262 St. James Blvd.
      $4,000 — Interior renovations

      Picknelly Family Partners
      1414 Main St.
      $16,000 — Erect two new non-structural partitions

      SIS Center
      1441 Main St.
      $20,000 — Install rollup fire doors

      WESTFIELD

      Boisjolie Realty LLC
      336 Lockhouse Road
      $10,000 — Interior remodel

      Frank Demairinis
      Apremont Way and Southampton Road
      $750,000 – New Riverbend Medical Facility

      Westfield Women’s Club
      28 Court St.
      $9,000 — Re-roof

      By
      Departments

      The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2008.

      AGAWAM

      APEX Energy Efficiency Consultants
      157 Cambridge St.
      Jonathan Wollmershauser

      BMT Trucking
      357 North Westfield St.
      Robert Gosselin

      Canterbury Safe
      369 Walnut St.
      Carmen Ortiz

      Gary Dionne Business Ventures
      37 Elizabeth St.
      Garry Dionne

      Interstate Properties LLC
      88 Katherine Dr.
      Robert O’Neil

      Lime Light Entrepreneurial Group
      262 Meadow St.
      Thaddeus Krutka

      Pananas Restaurant
      916 Suffield St.
      Vasilios Pananas

      Paris Nails
      336 North Westfield St.
      Myly Yv

      Prima Commercial Products
      32 Century St.
      FleetPride Inc.

      Precise Machine Co.
      1708 Main St.
      David G. Hershon

      The Dream Team
      580 Main St.
      Gregg Kretsch

      WEBTXDIRECT
      417 Springfield St.
      Timothy Tlusty

      AMHERST

      All Aspects Research
      24 Saco Dr.
      Keri Hertner

      Amherst Tire Center
      292 College St.
      Peter Greenberg

      Lyra Cleaning Services
      170 East Hadley St.
      Romulo Lyra

      CHICOPEE

      Dawn Marie’s Visage
      357 Front St.
      Khushal Gogri

      Harvest Valley
      2009 Memorial Dr.
      Jo Ann Wrona

      T & H Truck Sales Inc.
      235 Meadow St.
      Hemantkumar Patel

      The Health & Nutrition King
      35 Baltic Ave.
      Steven James King

      Tylunas Funeral Home
      159 Broadway St.
      CSI Funeral Services of Mass. Inc.

      EASTHAMPTON

      K & M Cycle
      97 Glendale St.
      Michael Link

      La Casita Azteca
      58 Cottage St.
      Alberto Lopez

      PGL Management
      41 South St.
      William Pacto

      Strange Child Productions
      283 East St.
      Jennifer Iannaconi

      GREENFIELD

      New England Speech Therapy Group
      976 Bernardston Road
      Staci Grant

      HADLEY

      Center for Hollistic Health
      8 River Dr.
      Richard Martin

      Home Depot
      350 Russell St.
      Duane Portwood

      HOLYOKE

      El Cuatrito Inc.
      325 Main St.
      Pablo Diaz

      Green Property Management
      285 Hamden St.
      Rebecca Rivera

      Holyoke Auto Sales LLC
      69 Jackson St.
      Miguel A. Rivera

      		  

      Marmesenia Cakes
      92 Suffolk St.
      Rosa Burgos

      NORTHAMPTON

      B & G Accessories
      43 Fox Farm Road
      Bernyce Grant

      Chiropractic And Wellness Center
      24 Center St.
      Dr. M. McTanney

      Communicate Health
      4 Linden St.
      Stacy Robison

      Strides & Brides
      9 Market St.
      Elizabeth Karney

      PALMER

      Haley Trucking
      60 Randall St.
      Eric C. Haley

      The Tranny Shop
      1207 South Main St.
      Samuel L. Wilson

      SOUTH HADLEY

      Arborarts.com
      18 Priestly Farms Road
      Carl Geitz

      El Guanaco
      61 Bridge St.
      Juan Carlos Cornejo

      Faye’s Home Improvement
      24 Main St.
      Ryan L. Faye

      SOUTHWICK

      La Petite Jolie Designs
      102 Post Grove Road
      Laura Sardella

      SPRINGFIELD

      Abiding Truth Ministries
      455 State St.
      Scott Lively

      D.B. Failey and Associates
      274 Christopher Dr.
      David B. Failey

      Double Jays Home Improvement
      480 Grayson Dr.
      Joshua Montanez

      Economy Landscaping
      88 Better Way
      Frank J. Silva

      Father & Sons Delivery
      30 Second St.
      Jose R. Portorreal

      Joseph Mini Mart
      135 Dwight St.
      Hamidah Imran

      Porfirio’s Property Service
      182 Main St.
      Mercedes Porfirio

      Stop & Go Market
      91-93 Chestnut St.
      Farman Elahi

      Wild Vine Hosting
      83 Grandview St.
      Nathan Andrew DeLong

      WESTFIELD

      Beth Brett Massage Therapy
      41 Court St.
      Elizabeth C. Brett

      Game City
      82 Elm St.
      Truong Nguyen

      J & A Overhead Door
      16 Wilson Ave.
      Brian Harvey

      LBI Truck & Bus Repair
      14 Delmont Ave.
      Dana Lecrenski

      Reliable Preventative Maintenance
      150 Tannery Road
      Steven Amlaw

      Ricky’s Porta-Pottys
      336 Paper Mill Road
      Richard Guyott

      WEST SPRINGFIELD

      Angelo Bertelli’s Liquor Mart
      726 Main St.
      Harold Passerini

      Bertera Lincoln Mercury Inc.
      499 Riverdale St.
      Aldo M. Bertera

      Bertera Suzuki
      499 Riverdale St.
      Bertera Lincoln Corp.

      By
      Departments

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

      AGAWAM

      LRG Financial Inc., 430 Main St., Agawam 01001. David I. Arriagas, 610 Dickinson St., Springfield 01108. Financial services and counsel.

      Reliance Laser Inc., 630 Silver St., unit 4A, Agawam 01001. Joseph L. Lovetti, 35 Speer Farm Road, Feeding Hills 01030 To engage in welding and cutting of small medical components for the medical industry.

      AMHERST

      Amherst Mission Church, 23 Woodlot Road, Amherst, MA 01002. Byung H. Kim, same. To reach out and spread the gospel to people who do not believe Jesus is Christ.

      Electromaterials Inc., 23 Wildwood Lane, Amherst 01002. Jing Wang, same.
      Research, development, and commercialization of novel energy storage structures and related materials.

      BELCHERTOWN

      Breakaway Retail Enterprises Inc., 315 Springfield Road, Belchertown 01007.
      Eric Kosciusko, same. To carry on all or any of the businesses of merchants, importers, exporters, wholesale and retail dealers, of and in goods of all kind.

      CHICOPEE

      Atmy Corp., 810 Meadow St., Chicopee 01013 Muhammad Yasin, 1 Colonial Ave., Barrington, R.I. 02806. To conduct retail convenience store.

      EAST LONGMEADOW

      Artistic Dance Conservatory Corp., 357 Shaker Road East Longmeadow 01028.
      Jennifer Dubilo, 7 East Circle Dr., East Longmeadow 01028. Charitable educational or scientific purposes.

      FLORENCE

      Omniwatt Energy Inc., 33 High Meadow Road, Florence 01062. Paul Vesel, same. To develop, acquire, manage, restructure, own, sell, broker, and otherwise commercially deal in and with power supply stations and facilities.

      GRANBY

      Manav Petroleum Inc., 30 West State St., Granby 01033. Ketki Vakil, 93 East Bay Ave., Manhawkin, N.J. 08050. To operate and manage a gas station and convenience store.

      HOLYOKE

      John D. Dinapoli Charitable Organization Inc., 138 Appleton St., Holyoke 01040 Gary Wagner, 17 Holly Meadow Road, Holyoke 01040. To provide scholarships to individuals and grants to other not-for-profit organizations in Holyoke and the surrounding communities.

      		  

      LUDLOW

      AJE Financial Corporation, 364 East St., Ludlow 01056. Robin Lee Wdowiak, 72 Norwich Road, Ludlow 01056. To own, operate, and carry on a financial service office.

      PALMER

      Neeco Inc., 15 Third St., Palmer 01069. Gary Como, 34 Bragg Dr., Warren 01083. Equipment sales and repairs.

      SOUTHWICK

      Guo’s New King Yen Too Restaurant Inc., 648 College Highway, Southwick 01077.
      Joyce Guo, same. To operate a restaurant.

      SPRINGFIELD

      Big T’S Towing and Recovery Inc., 45 Claremont St., Springfield, MA 01108. Traleck Dickson, 132 Fort Pleasant Ave. Springfield, MA 01108. To teach students how to handle hook ups and towing and the safety that needs to be involved with towing
      and recovery of vehicles.

      CBA Charlton Housing Inc., 322 Main Street, C/O Hap Inc., Springfield 01105.
      Thomas B. Zatko, 4 Meadowlark Dr. East Longmeadow 01028. Development or re-development, ownership, and operation of affordable rental housing.

      Dartmouth Street Marketing Inc., 95 Dartmouth St. Springfield 01109. Marilyn B. Feldman, same. Engage in E-commerce.

      Devine Trucking Inc., 20 Oakdale St., Springfield 01104. Michael D. Devine, 23 Valley Road, Sturbridge 01566. Trucking and warehousing service.

      Hickson Law Group P.C., 51 Taylor St., Springfield 01103. Joseph M. Hickson, III, same. Law practice.

      WESTFIELD

      Momentum Properties Inc., 1817 East Mountain Road, Westfield 01085. Heather Grincavitch, same. To acquire equity thru property and rehab, rent manage, and other processing.

      By
      Departments

      Acts of Kindness

      Major Thomas Perks of the Salvation Army of Springfield helps kick off the 24th annual Hasbro Children’s Giving Tree program at the Eastfield Mall. Members of the East Longmeadow High School chorale group are in the background. Through the program, which ran through Dec. 12, Hasbro partners with the Salvation Army, the United Way of Pioneer Valley, Rachel’s Table, and the community to get toys, games and non-perishable food items to underprivileged children and families in the Springfield area. Hasbro donates the toys and games, while community members donate non-perishable food items and perform ‘Acts of Kindness.’

      Link to Libraries

      Meyers Bros. Kalicka, CPA, in Holyoke; and Link to Libraries, a not-for-profit organization based in Western Mass. whose mission is to collect and distribute to public elementary schools and non-profit organizations throughout Western Mass. new books to enhance reading, literacy, and language skills to children of all cultures, are pictured at the December holiday donation of new books to Sullivan Elementary School in Holyoke. Meyers Bros. Kalicka Managing Partner David Kalicka (middle, left) represented the firm as corporate sponsor for the Sullivan Elementary School holiday book drive. More than 300 books were donated by the firm for the Sullivan School and other area schools in the region. Also pictured are: Susan Jaye-Kaplan, co-founder of Link to Libraries (next to David Kalicka); Janet Kalicka, Sullivan School staff representative; and Sullivan School Principal John Breish.

      Rosa Parks Day

      The fourth annual Rosa Parks Day commemoration was held on Dec. 5 at Springfield Technical Community College. The event at STCC, which marks the anniversary of Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Ala. bus, featured Springfield-area guest speakers who were active in the civil rights movement. Here, speakers pose with a group of students and a teacher from William DeBerry School. Left to right, from the middle back: Frederick Hurst, publisher of Afro-American Point of View; E. Henry Twiggs, Chair of the Springfield Democratic City Committee and a member of the Rosa Parks Day Organizing Committee; Dr. Ruth B. Loving; and state Rep. Benjamin Swan.

      By the Numbers

      Pollster John Zogby, president and CEO of Zogby International, addressed a gathering of more than 100 members and friends of the World Affairs Council of Western Mass. on his new book, “The Way We’ll Be,” at the Springfield Sheraton Hotel on Dec. 3. The event was sponsored by FieldEddy, A. L. Cignoli Co., and BusinessWest. Here, Zogby talks with some attendees prior to his address.

      Open for Business

      Ribbon-cutting ceremonies were staged recently at Agawam Crossing, a new medical and office building on Route 75. At left, Ken Vincunas, president of Development Associates and developer of the project, chats with Agawam Mayor Susan Dawson, who was on hand to help cut the ceremonial ribbon. Above, Stacy Magiera, practice administrator, and Christopher Magiera, DMD, PC, stand at the booth of the new general dentistry offices of Christopher J. Magiera, one of many tenants now doing business in Agawam Crossing, including Individual & Family Counseling Center, Baystate Rehabilitation Care, and Anytime Fitness.

      By
      Departments

      MassMutual Promotes Two in Succession Plan

      SPRINGFIELD — MassMutual promoted its two co-chief operating officers to new roles recently as part of a succession plan for the $500 billion company. Roger Crandall took over as president on Dec. 1, taking the role formerly held by Stuart Reese, who will remain as chairman and chief executive officer. Meanwhile, William Galvin Jr. will take over on Jan. 1 as CEO of Oppenheimer Funds Inc. in New York City. He will replace John Mirphy, who will continue as chairman of Oppenheimer Funds until his retirement at the end of 2009. Galvin is currently the executive vice president of MassMutual’s U.S. Insurance Group.

      Big Y, HNE Produce Video on Healthy Food Shopping

      SPRINGFIELD — Knowing that good health begins with solid choices of food, Health New England (HNE) and Big Y World Class Markets have come together to produce a new DVD titled Healthy Directions/Living Well Eating Smart — A Grocery Store Tour. In the video, Carrie Taylor, Big Y’s registered dietitian, leads viewers through each section of the market, discussing smart meal choices and providing tips on becoming a savvy shopper. “We hope people see that eating healthy is easy, affordable, and delicious,” she said. The idea for the DVD began with live grocery store tours that HNE conducts at Big Y stores for its members who have diabetes. “During our tours, shoppers would see us and ask if they could tag along,” said Lynn Ostrowski, director of Brand and Corporate Relations at HNE. “We realized that everyone wants to learn how to make better food choices.” The DVD is free, and can be obtained by calling HNE at (413) 233-3032, E-mailing [email protected], or E-mailing Big Y at [email protected].

      WNEC Receives Distinction

      SPRINGFIELD — Western New England College (WNEC) is featured in the first edition of the Colleges of Distinction guidebook, a new publication that provides a fresh look at some of America’s higher education institutions. Based on the opinions of guidance counselors, educators, and admissions professionals, the guidebook honors colleges that excel in key areas of educational quality and appeal to students’ unique and varied interests. To qualify for inclusion in the guidebook, WNEC was evaluated for its performance in the “Four Distinctions” — Engaged Students, Great Teaching, Vibrant Communities, and Successful Outcomes. Guidance counselors and admissions professionals around the country recommended WNEC in all four categories. WNEC was also noted for its active student body, devoted faculty, and academic programs based on developing collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills.

      BMC Unit Earns Beacon Award

      SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Medical Center’s Daly 6-2 surgical intermediate care unit has joined the ranks of the top health care teams in the nation, becoming one of only two such units ever to win the American Assoc. of Critical Care Nurses’ Beacon Award. The honor is a first for an intermediate-care unit at Baystate, and the first such award for an intermediate-care unit in all of New England. Intermediate-care units are reserved for patients who are too sick for a standard medical-surgical unit but do not require the level of care provided in an ICU. As recipient of a Beacon, Daly 6-2 met rigid criteria for excellence, adhering to high standards of quality in leadership, recruiting, and training nurses, and caring for patients and their families.

      Springfield College Raises $44.5 Million

      SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College recently wrapped up its largest fundraising campaign in its 123-year history with a record $44.5 million pledged, exceeding its goal by more than 10%. The college entered the public phase of the campaign in 2005 with $20 million raised. Last year, The Kresge Foundation announced a $1 million challenge grant if the college were to raise $39 million by June 30, 2008. The challenge was met. Altogether, the college received nine gifts of $1 million or more, 67 gifts of $100,000 or more, and 376 contributions of $10,000 or greater. There were over 15,000 donors from all U.S. states and 15 foreign countries. Supported by campaign funds, the college constructed its Wellness Center and Field House, expanded and renovated Schoo-Bemis Science Center to create a modern, interdisciplinary science teaching facility, and broke ground for the Campus Union complex. College officials also established 50 endowed scholarships and 16 named funds supporting the college.

      Giving Tree Nearing Milestone

      SPRINGFIELD — Hasbro Games recently launched the 24th annual Hasbro Children’s Giving Tree at the Eastfield Mall on Boston Road to make the holidays a bit brighter for underprivileged children in the area. Leaders from Hasbro Games, the United Way of Pioneer Valley, the Salvation Army of the Greater Springfield Area, and Rachel’s Table were all on hand for the festivities, which included 60 children singing holiday songs and bringing donated food items. The Children’s Giving Tree campaign, which runs through Dec. 12, provides food, games, and toys to children in need who reside in the Greater Springfield area. Hasbro officials also encourage area residents to drop off nonperishable food items to the mall during the campaign, which will be distributed to Rachel’s Table.

      Captain Charles Leonard House Unveils Improvements

      AGAWAM — Agawam’s historic Captain Charles Leonard House opened its doors to the public on Dec. 7 to celebrate the holiday season and the near-completion of an extensive capital-improvement project. The improvements include extensive mechanical and structural work, as well as the new historically accurate exterior color scheme and foundation plantings. Inside, the Old Kitchen has been redecorated to better represent its original use as a tap room. Plans for an extensive landscape-restoration project featuring native species, historically appropriate plantings, and an outdoor reception area was also on display. That project has been put on hold, as state funding was recently cut by Gov. Deval Patrick due to the current financial crisis.

      By
      Departments

      CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT

      Leonor D. Leandro v. American Honda Motor Co. Inc. and Curry Automotive, LLC
      Allegation: Lemon Law, breach of contract and implied warranty: $20,000
      Filed: 11/20/08

      FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT

      John C. Osowski v. Monoko Inc.
      Allegation: Defendant negligently maintained and inspected scaffolding and did not provide proper safety harness. Scaffolding failed and plaintiff fell, sustaining injuries: $38,713
      Filed: 11/06/08

      Roger Flanders v. Golden Leaf Restaurant
      Allegation: Plaintiff tripped and fell on rolled up carpet, causing injury: $101,824
      Filed: 10/30/08

      HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

      Adelaida Gonzalez v. Federal Express Ground Package Systems Inc.
      Allegation: Employment discrimination: $25,000+
      Filed: 10/13/08

      Cynthia Davis v. Cumberland Farms
      Allegation: Negligence causing slip and fall: $4,948.01
      Filed: 11/07/08

      Fred Pearson v. Allied Heating & Air Conditioning
      Allegation: Employment discrimination: $25,000+
      Filed: 10/15/08

      CNA Corporation v. Stony Hill Sand & Gravel Inc.
      Allegation: Non-payment of back rent owed: $148,017.07
      Filed: 11/10/08

      Jose Rosario v. Joseph M. Decenzo, M.D.
      Allegation: Medical malpractice: $91,000
      Filed: 10/17/08

      New England Book Service Inc. v. Higher Learning Supply Co., LLC & Prissm Management Group Inc.
      Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $62,393.84
      Filed: 10/20/08

      Michael R. Solin v. Samir A. Mujalli, M.D.
      Allegation: Medical malpractice:
      $1.1 million
      Filed: 11/04/08

      Paul Bradas Jr. v. Carrabba’s
      Allegation: Negligence/personal injury: $13,642.70
      Filed: 10/30/08

      New England Granite v. Spartan Brake & Muffler Shops
      Allegation: Negligence of defendant’s employees, causing explosion and fire: $219,254
      Filed: 11/03/08

      HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT

      Wayne F. Farr et al v. Behavioral Health Network Inc.
      Allegation: Medical malpractice: $25,000+
      Filed: 11/10/08

      HOLYOKE DISTRICT COURT

      The Darcy Company v. Fresh Supreme Supermarket
      Allegation: Non-payment of goods and services: $4,771.58
      Filed: 10/02/08

      NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT

      Aarco Products Inc. v. Action Display Services
      Allegation: Breach of contract: $4,786
      Filed: 11/10/08

      SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT

      Francis E. Owczarski v. Good Deal Auto
      Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to repay loan: $4,000
      Filed: 10/07/08

      Mary Lou Sanborn v. H.L. Padden Electrical Contractors Inc.
      Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $12,057.26
      Filed: 10/20/08

      Statewide Mechanical Contractors Inc. v. Pioneer Valley Winnelson Co. Inc.
      Allegation: Breach of implied warranty and merchantability. Plaintiff incurred additional costs due to defective pipe supplied by defendant: $49,875
      Filed: 10/16/08

      WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT

      Jorge and Nancy Santiago v. Hillcrest Construction & Ben Hallmark
      Allegation: Breach of contract and damages to property during construction: $2,000+
      Filed: 11/12/08

      By
      Departments

      The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of November 2008.

      AGAWAM

      Affordable Drywall & Painting
      985 North Westfield St.
      Roman Kagimiercgak

      Albano’s Barber Shop
      667 Springfield St.
      Nancy Gentile

      All Star Landscaping
      454 Corey St.
      Joseph Blais

      Coastline Automotive
      981 River Road
      Beris F. Gouldborune

      Control Alt Delete LLC
      324 Springfield St.
      Tom Banerjee

      Frawley Engineering
      140 Christopher Lane
      Christine Frawley

      Jason A. Rocca Electrical Co.
      6 Althea Circle
      Jason A. Rocca

      Nicholas DePalma Construction
      53 Highland Ave.
      Nicholas DePalma

      Northeast Tree & Landscape Construction
      171 Tobacco Farm Road
      Eric Satkowski

      The Law Offices of Brandon A. Parrelli
      8 Marla Place
      Brandon A. Parrelli

      Sigma Mattress Manufacturing
      69 Garden St.
      Alex Pawlenko

      AMHERST

      Kind Groove Productions
      38 Lenks St.
      Jessica Zambias

      Sandy’s Barber Shop
      96 North Pleasant St.
      Sandra Renaud

      The Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst Assoc.
      29 South Pleasant St.
      E. Craig Asche

      CHICOPEE

      Car Credit 1st
      536 East St.
      Alex Friedman

      Courthouse Laundry
      90 Main St.
      Teresa Do

      Creative Change Interior Decorating
      32 Montauk Road
      Beth Montemagni

      Games & Stuff
      824 Chicopee St.
      Daniel B Wojciak

      Kenny G’s Performance Tuning
      643 Prospect St.
      Frank A. Germain Jr.

      EASTHAMPTON

      Heron Automation
      36 Groveland St.
      Christopher Lukomski

      Sanderson Designs
      88 Clark St.
      Ruth Sanderson

      Tranquil Domain Yoga
      75 Parsons St.
      Allison Gero

      Western Nail
      72 Cottage St.
      Andy Tran

      GREENFIELD

      Atlas Entertainment
      497 Main St.
      Corey L. Ricketts

      HADLEY

      Aaron’s Transport
      215 Russell St.
      Norman Laborte

      Valley Bookkeeping
      100 Venture Way
      Janet Jefflon

      HOLYOKE

      Mahboob Inc.
      333 High St.
      Yasser Hussain

      Melo Deli Grocery
      512 South St.
      Luis S. Melo

      Readings by Margurite
      1548 Northampton St.
      Margurite Miller

      Track ‘N Trail
      50 Holyoke St.
      Bobbi Lindeman

      LUDLOW

      Poppi’s Pizzeria
      341 West St.
      Kevin Fonseca

      		  

      NORTHAMPTON

      Jupiter Girl
      21 Vernon St.
      Caitlin Bosco

      Leather & Lace Hairstyle
      9 North Main St.
      Heather Wright

      M.A.B Energy
      50 North St.
      Michael A. Belhumeur

      Thermal Brothers
      107 Island Road
      Pierre Belhumeur

      PALMER

      Hot Shot Billiards
      1440-1446 North Main St.
      Linda Lambert

      Palmer Auto Mall
      1219 Thorndike St.
      George R. Menard

      SOUTH HADLEY

      Brenda Lee Courier
      8 Berwyn St. Ext.
      Brenda L. Sudyka

      Caas Maintenance
      431 East St.
      Daniel Mackenzie

      C&R Doors
      75 Hadley Village Road
      Christopher Keegan

      Home Facelifters
      244 Brainerd St.
      Philip E. Stefanelli

      SOUTHWICK

      Seniors Helping Seniors
      3 White St.
      Phillip Yocum

      Southwick Forastiere Funeral Home
      624 College Highway
      Frank Forastiere

      SPRINGFIELD

      All Nations Auto Repair
      149 Rocus St.
      Julio C. Soto

      Aura’s Beauty Salon
      519 Main St.
      Anna S. Matos

      Being Well Therapeutic
      80 Congress St.
      Alina Zawadzka

      Certified Auto Glass
      1142 State St.
      Miguel A. Perez

      Hosttree
      83 Grandview St.
      Nathan Andrew DeLong

      JK Subway, LLC
      560 Sumner Ave.
      Kimberly McCarthy

      Liberty Jean Co.
      260 Worthington St.
      Kenneth James Rogers

      Quality Sales & Services
      318 Wilbraham Road
      London W. Hall

      S.N.J. Plumbing & Heating
      94 Somerset St.
      Jeremiah Wellington

      The Whole Armour of God
      248 King St.
      Prince Golphin, Jr.

      WESTFIELD

      Blissful Brooke Family Day Care
      731 Westfield Road
      Krystal R. Young-LaFountain

      Great Floors
      66 Montgomery St.
      David V. Minchuk

      Lecrenski Bros. Inc.
      14 Delmont Ave.
      Dana Lecrenski

      Lisa Nails
      78 Elm St.
      Gai Thi Vo

      Renee Collier
      45 Meadow St.
      Renee Collier

      WEST SPRINGFIELD

      Hathorn Associates
      42 Old Barn Road
      Joyce A. Bannick

      Victory International Store Inc.
      573 Union St.
      Andrey Kolesnichenko

      By
      Departments

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

      CHICOPEE

      Door Tek Installation Services Inc., 19 East Street Ave., Chicopee 01020. Mario Couture, same. Door installation.

      Taehon Corporation Take on Life Inc., 680 Meadow St., Chicopee 01013-1824. Mark D. Lewis, 191 North Street, Hingham, 02043. Martial arts instruction.

      EASTHAMPTON

      Hinglag Corp., 46 Townhouse Dr., Easthampton 01027. Bhupendra N. Patel, same. Package store.

      GREENFIELD

      Jim’s Tree Service Inc., 115 homestead Ave., Greenfield 01301. James Michael Elwell. Same. Tree service.

      HOLYOKE

      Friends of Holyoke Council on Aging Inc., 310 Appleton St., Holyoke 01040. Frances Wilhelmi, 31 Mayer Dr., Holyoke 01040. Charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes.

      LONGMEADOW

      Scientific Social Solutions Inc., 49 Memory Lane, Longmeadow 01106. Alton King Jr., same. Education

      Western Massachusetts Learning Centers for Children Inc., 281 Deepwoods Dr., Longmeadow 01106. Robert W. Clark, same. To train qualified trainees to become certified tutors.

      LUDLOW

      Sal’s Pizzeria Inc., 206 Holyoke St., Ludlow 01056. Marie Berardi, 88 Ashland Ave., Springfield 01119-2702. Dispenser of food and drink.

      PALMER

      Western Massachusetts Fly Fishermen Inc., 1212 Thorndike St., Palmer 01069. William Rose, 39 Sunset Terrace, Feeding Hills 01030.To provide education on fly fishing.

      RUSSELL

      Scapin Sand & Gravel Inc., 260 Blandford Road, Russell 01071. Anthony J. Scapin Sr., same. To supply sand and gravel.

      SOUTH HADLEY

      International Medieval Society, Paris Inc., 50 College St., South Hadley 01075. Meredith Cohen, same. Non-profit.

      		  

      SPRINGFIELD

      Admark Transportation Inc., 786 Newbury St., Springfield 01104. Rene Romero, same. Public transportation.

      Agape Kingdom Community Development International (AKCDI) Inc., 336 Springfield St., Springfield 01107. Kofi Atta Ben Bani Rev., 136 Melha Ave., Springfield 01104. Community service.

      BDH Enterprises Inc., 46 Louis Road, Springfield 01118. Brenda D Harvey, same. On-line customer service.

      Chase Management Service Inc., 85 Mill St., Springfield 01108. Sheryl A.Chase, 29 River St., Thorndike 01079. Real Estate management.

      Faith in Action Community Empowerment (FACE) Inc., 336 Springfield St., Springfield 01107. Kofi Atta Beb Bani Rev., 136 Melha Ave., Springfield 01104. Community service.

      Innovative Communications Inc., 132 Fort Pleasant Ave., Springfield 01108. Kevin McCaskill Jr., Same. Retail.

      New England Farm Workers’ Council Realty Inc., 11-13 Hampden St., Springfield 01103. Heriberto Flores, same. Non-profit.

      Springfield International Animal Hospital Realty Inc., 357 East Columbus Ave., Springfield 01105-2555. Socrates Tello, 356 Orange St., Springfield 01105. Real Estate investor.

      Springfield International Animal Hospital, P.C. 357 East Columbus Ave., Springfield 01105. Socrates Tello, same. Veterinary medicine.

      Tenants & Landlords Inc., 115 Bellevue Ave., Springfield 01108. Hassan R. Ali, same. Home services.

      Yogi Brothers Inc., 220 Worthington St., Springfield 01029. Arvind Trehan, 155 River St., West Springfield 01089. Fast food service/restaurant

      WESTFIELD

      John P. Liptak, CPA Inc., 30 Court St., Westfield 01085. John P. Liptak, 20 Court St., Westfield 01085. The practice of public accountancy.

      WILBRAHAM

      Wurszt Inc., 2460 Boston Road, Wilbraham 01095. Greg S. Wurszt, 18 Frontenac St., Indian Orchard 01151. The purchase, sales, distribution, and repair of lawn mowers, snow blowers, and other power equipment.

      By
      Departments

      Janice Ward, Esq. has been named Vice President and Trust Officer at Greenfield Savings Bank.

      •••••

      Kevin R. Day has been elected Senior Vice President/Chief Financial Officer for Florence Savings Bank.

      •••••

      Berkshire Life Insurance Company of America in Pittsfield announced the following:
      • Donna K. Owens has been named Director of Multi-Life Segment Marketing. In her role, Owens will identify strategic product, program, and service opportunities for expanding penetration into the worksite customer market by Guardian agencies and other distribution channels through Berkshire Life’s DI@Work offering;
      • Stephen J. Prunier has been named Second Vice President and Counsel. He will oversee Berkshire Life’s litigation practice, and
      • Laura B. Rosenthal, FSA, MAAA, has been named Actuary. As Actuary, Rosenthal is responsible for modeling field compensation for Berkshire’s products, as well as overseeing the integrity of experience analysis for pricing, valuation, and regulatory financial analysis.

      •••••

      Bacon Wilson, P.C. of Springfield announced that eight of its attorneys have been distinguished as New England “SuperLawyers” and another six have been distinguished as “Rising Stars” in the November issue of Boston magazine:
      • Attorney Paul R. Salvage has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is the co-chairman of the Insolvency Department. His practice deals with bankruptcy matters, representing both creditors and individuals or companies facing financial difficulties;
      • Attorney Gary L. Fialky has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is chairman of the Corporate Department. His practice is concentrated in business and banking law, with an emphasis on business formations, mergers and acquisitions;
      • Attorney Michael B. Katz has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is co-chairman of the Bankruptcy Department. His practice is concentrated in business and insolvency law;
      • Attorney Paul R. Rothschild has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is chairman of the Litigation Department. His practice is concentrated in general litigation, as well as personal injury, product liability, medical malpractice, and employer/employee disputes;
      • Attorney Stephen N. Krevalin has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is the firm’s Managing Partner. His areas of expertise include general business matters, real estate, and domestic relations. He also has extensive experience in the area of shopping center/mall representation;
      • Attorney Hyman G. Darling has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is chairman of the Estate Planning and Elder Law Departments. His areas of expertise include all areas of estate planning, probate and elder law;
      • Attorney Francis R. Mirkin has been named a “SuperLawyer.” Mirkin’s areas of practice include commercial and residential real estate and general business matters, as well as consistent involvement in commercial loan documentation, representing numerous area financial lending institutions and businesses;
      • Attorney Stephen B. Monsein has been named a “SuperLawyer.” He is a member of the Domestic Relations and Litigation Departments. His work is primarily concentrated on divorce cases, but he also handles personal injury cases and does OUI defense work;
      • Attorney Gina B. Barry has been named a “Rising Star.” She is a member of the Estate Planning/Elder Law Department whose practice includes estate-planning issues. Additional areas of expertise include guardianship, conservatorship, planning for long-term care, and residential real estate;
      • Attorney Justin H. Dion has been named a “Rising Star.” He specializes in insolvency, business, and financial matters. In addition to handling Chapter 7, 11, and 13 bankruptcies, he also does financial planning, conducts foreclosures, and handles collection matters for lenders;
      • Attorney Adam J. Basch has been named a “Rising Star.” He is a member of the Litigation Department whose areas of expertise include construction litigation, personal injury, general litigation, and commercial litigation;
      • Attorney Todd C. Ratner has been named a “Rising Star.” He is a member of the Estate Planning/Elder Law Department whose practice includes estate planning issues. Additional areas of expertise include commercial and residential real estate together with general business and corporate law;
      • Attorney Benjamin M. Coyle has been named a “Rising Star.” He is a member of the firm’s business and corporate, estate planning and elder, litigation, and municipal departments, and
      • Attorney Mark A. Tanner has been named a “Rising Star.” He concentrates his practice in plaintiff’s personal injury, civil litigation, and land use and zoning.

      •••••

      Lia sophia recently announced top honors for its Excellent Beginnings Program Achievers for their outstanding accomplishments. They are:
      • Michelle Gower of Chicopee, and
      • Rebecca Lafleur of South Hadley.

      •••••

      Allen J. Miles has been promoted to Executive Vice President at Westfield Bank. In addition to his responsibilities of managing the commercial department and the consumer loan area, Miles will be an active participant in helping to formulate the strategic direction of the bank.

      •••••

      The Springfield Rotary Club recently awarded seven Paul Harris Awards at its 94th Paul Harris Awards Banquet. Paul Harris recipients are:
      • Gary P. Fishlock of Westfield;
      • Susan A. Mastroianni of Agawam;
      • Brian P. Sears of Springfield;
      • Edward P. Sunter Jr. of East Longmeadow;
      • Julianne L. Dulude of Southwick;
      • Trevor J. Gay of Northampton, and
      • Springfield School Volunteers.
      A Paul Harris recognition is the highest honor a Rotary Club can bestow on an individual or group, who may or may not be a Rotarian.

      •••••

      The UMass Amherst Alumni Assoc. recently named Anna Symington its Executive Director. Symington has been serving as vice president of the alumni association’s board of directors, has served on numerous association committees, and is a life member of the association.

      •••••

      Glenmeadow Retirement recently announced its Board of Directors and Corporators as follows:
      • George C. Keady of Longmeadow, re-elected President;
      • Randall Locklin of West Springfield, re-elected Vice President;
      • Peter Landon of Longmeadow, re-elected Treasurer;
      • Mary Downey Costello of Springfield, re-elected Clerk, and
      • Mary Meehan of Longmeadow, elected board member.
      All are also corporators. Newly elected Corporators are:
      • Lisa Doherty of Longmeadow;
      • Christopher and Patty Gill of Longmeadow;
      • Howard Hausman of Longmeadow;
      • John McCarthy Jr. of Ware;
      • Kasha Novak of Longmeadow;
      • Alice Parker of Springfield;
      • Todd Ratner of Longmeadow, and
      • Ann Marie Rome of Longmeadow.

      •••••

      The Safety Council of Western New England announced the following:
      • Thomas Bonavita, safety and training manager for the Springfield Water and Sewer Commission, was elected as Chairman of the Board of Directors;
      • Maurice Lavoie, safety manager at Farmland Foods, was selected as the Vice Chairman, and
      • Alan Stratton of Solutia was chosen as Treasurer.
      Also, Dave Pasquini, Russell Fleury, and Robert Dionne were voted in as new board members. Sandi Gagner is the immediate Past Chair.

      By
      Departments

      ACCGS Government Reception

      The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield recently staged its annual Government Reception at Storrowton Tavern in West Springfield. Attendees had the opportunity to meet with dozens of elected and appointed officials and discuss issues critical to the business community. Clockwise, from bottom left: Denise Vogel, Peter Clark, and Edgar Alejandro pose for a picture with state Rep. Rosemary Sandlin (third from left); Janis Santos, director of Head Start, and Thomas Burton, president of Hampden Bank, talk legislative issues with Springfield City Councilor Bud Williams (left); Ellen Cumming and Joe Zakowski of Gold Sponsor Verizon with state Rep. Michael Kane (center).