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Departments

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Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of March 2007.

AGAWAM

Gosselin Graphics
167 Elm St.
John Baginski

The Daily Grind
360 North Westfield St.
Paul Bshara

AMHERST

A Casual Affair Catering
71 North Pleasant St.
Dawn Soldan

Amherst Mini Mart
324 College St.
Zahoor Ul Haq

Shopping Solutions: Diamonds to Dinner
15 Bayberry Lane
Margie R. Carkhuff

The Refinery at Suite 59B
59B Boltwood Walk
Cynthia Apple

CHICOPEE

Happy Spirit Gift Shop
685 James St.
Glen Stuart Buckley

J.B. Home Improvement
48 Kendall St.
John James Batchelor

Shamrock Motors
1841 Memorial Dr.
Kevin J. Conway

The Good Dog Spot Inc.
40 Old James St.
Elizabeth Powers

EAST LONGMEADOW

Atlantic Promotions
34 Autumn Ridge
Michael Distasio

Dance Threadz
626 North Main St.
Andrea L. Donabed

David Williams
112 Pease Road
David L. Williams

First Step Nursery School Inc.
310 Maple St.
Gina & Kevin O’Connor

Meadows Driving School
143E Shaker Road
Geof Spear

People’s Bank
783 Williams St.
People’s Bank

Quick Tan
628 North Main St.
Mary Giubala

GREENFIELD

In Stitches
259 Federal St.
Kathleen McIntyre-Bernier

Pelligrino Family Chiropractic
83 Congress St.
Joseph M. Pelligrino

The Laundry
176 Federal St.
Alex Fiorey

HOLYOKE

David Tetrault, Private Detective
3 Claren Dr.
David Tetrault

Racing Mart
181 West Franklin St.
Bhikhabhai C. Patel

Ray’s Barber Shop
451 1/2 High St.
Edwin DeJesus

The Muse Custom Framing
220 South Water St.
Debra Luzny

Text Support
88 Westfield Road
Michael Trotman

Tramore Chip Shop
37 Myrtle Ave.
Gabriel Quaglia

LUDLOW

Classic Ceramic Door
329 East St.
Gustavo Bubbo

James St.
56 Main Boulevard
James St.

Marta Buskey
200 Center St.
Marta Buskey

Salon Accents
247 East St.
Christine Arillota

NORTHAMPTON

GraceOliver.com
221 Pine St.
Marpa Eager

Northampton Wireless
32 Pleasant St.
Jorge L. Alban

Outside Inn
50 Chapel St.
Gerard Sudano

Strings Attached
79 1/2 C Hawley St.
Madison Cripps

PALMER

Roy Croteau Electric
244 Burlingame Road
Raymond Croteau

SMR Trucking
18 Stimson St.
Steven M. Ruiz

Trackside Motors
1237 Park St.
William Davis

SOUTHWICK

Carfinders
797 College Highway
Michael Wermon

LT Sales
61 Berkshire Ave.
Linda Tersavich

Pioneer Valley Machine
20 Meadow Lane
Caroline Drake

  

Wees Landscaping and Property Services
12 Castle St.
Tara Buttress

SPRINGFIELD

Abreu Cleaning Services
34 Navajo Road
Antolin Abreu

Aztec Automotive
600 St. James Ave.
Floyd V. Collins

Blissful Beads
49 Hobson St.
Gail Marie Corliss

Botanica Congo ISU LLC
28 Lawn St.
Miguel Betancourt

Cool Stream Records
196 Locust St.
Paul A. Ball

Debs Fassions
196 Locust St.
Deborah Ann Barnes

Express Food
1655 Boston Road
Scott Edward Lubarsky

Everyday Electronics
75 Pilgrim Road
Brady D. Chianciola

Executive Body Fitness
57 Weaver Road
David Anthony

Fusion Wireless
1282 Parker St.
Erin Wyrostek

Jani King
40 Avon Place
David Grier

Jose Produce
30 Second St.
Jose R. Portorreal

Just Perfect LMT
137 Derryfield Ave.
Odell L. Daniel

Mike and Son Auto Repair
70 Union St.
Percida Morales

Now and Zen Yoga
34 Front St.
Ruth M. Giles

Orion Investigations
133 Oak St.
R. Scott Turner

Portorreal Investment
30 Second St.
Raul Portorreal

Pops Lawnmower Service
87 Michon St.
Leland Andrew Nadeau

Ram Enterprise
4 Langdon St.
Nathilda Ramirez

Rosario Scooter Racing
10 Chestnut St. AP
Hector M. Rosario

Spencer For Hire
32 Byron St.
Maurice Spencer

Spencer Property Management
32 Byron St.
Maurice Spencer

St. Image
163 White St.
Shaneka Morris

The Arts Project
89 Perkins St.
William Park Arnold

WESTFIELD

Adrienne’s Café
16 Union St.
Adrienne M. Medeiros

Asian Massage
26 North Elm St.
Xi Yun Yang

Colorpilot LLC
37 Ingersoll Dr.
George Pawle

Discount Uniform Shop
48 Elm St.
William F. Barry Jr.

Dust Bunnies Office Cleaning
25 Highland View St.
Katrina Senecal

Rainbow Nails
85 Main St.
Huy T. Vu

Stanley Laundromat
3 White St.
Patricia Lee

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Berninger & Associates
181 Park Ave.
Steven G. Berninger

Bertera Collision Repair Center
160 Westfield St.
Aldo Bertera

Charter Home Mortgage Company
171 Park Ave.
Eliot Chartrand

Iglesia Bet-El Concilio Peatelcosta
812 Union St.
Rafael C. Feliciano

New England Custom Home Builder
105 Hampden St.
Anatoliy Paliy

Northeast Security Solutions Inc.
33 Sylvan St.
George D. Condon III

Pizzeria Alforno
1130 Memorial Ave.
Abdurrahman Alici

Spartan Brake and Muffler Shops
865 Memorial Ave.
Nicholas M. Katsoulis

Survival and Rescue Training
33 Avondale Ave.
Paul E. Masters

WJB Enterprise
103 Cataumet Lane
William J. Buoniconti

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Departments

Dialed In

Listeners pledged a record-breaking $200,500 during the sixth annual WMAS Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon last month, surpassing last year’s total of $192,000. The money will support Baystate Children’s Hospital in Springfield. Event sponsors Health New England and Patriot Home Improvement matched $15,000 and $13,000 in donations, respectively. Other sponsors included Teddy Bear Pools & Spas and the Baystate Medical Center Auxiliary.

Tim Laporte of Carrabba’s Italian Grill in West Springfield flips pork chops outside on the grill; the restaurant provided food throughout the radiothon.

Hospital patient Adam Wiatrowski takes in the radiothon events with his parents, Amy and Rick Wiatrowski.

WMAS DJs Rob Anthony, far left, and Paul Cannon, far right, interview hospital patient Tatyana Berrios; her mother, Virgen Berrios; and Baystate’s Dr. Harold Hoar.

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Departments

“Customer Loyalty Best Practices”

March 14: Do you know what your customers are saying about you? The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will sponsor this workshop that features interesting feedback from area visitors presented by the Berkshire Visitors Bureau. In addition, a discussion of best practices for developing customer loyalty is planned. The class will be conducted from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, 75 North St., Suite 360, Pittsfield. The cost is $30. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

eWomen Network

March 20: The next eWomen Network meeting is planned from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Abundance Intelligence expert Kim George will be the guest speaker for the evening. Her lecture is titled Getting Out Of Your Own Way: How Scarcity Sabotages Business Growth. Tickets are $35 for members, $45 for guests. For more information, contact Shana Ferrigan Bourcier at (413) 566-8443.

Women’s Partnership Luncheon

March 21: The Women’s Partnership luncheon at the Best Western Sovereign Hotel and Conference Center in West Springfield will feature speakers Carla Oleska, Ph.D., executive director of Women’s Fund of Western Mass., and Aimee Griffin Munnings, executive director of the New England Black Chamber of Commerce and director of the Law and Business Center for Advancing Entrepreneurship at Western New England College. Oleska will discuss the power of women to galvanize their energies across all boundaries when it comes to creating a better and stronger community, and Munnings will speak on building capacity through collaboration. Preceding the speakers will be the Reaching Goals graduation recognizing the mentees from the Mass. Career Development Institute. Networking is planned from 11:30 a.m. to noon and the program will run from 12 to 1:15. Tickets are $20 for Chamber members and $25 for non-Chamber members. For more information, contact Diane Swanson at (413) 755-1313 or via E-mail at [email protected].

Blogging Basics Workshop

March 22: The Regional Technology Corporation’s (RTC) Technology Enterprise Council network will present Blogs, Podcasts and Webinars, Oh My! from 8:30 to 10 a.m. in the teleclassroom at Springfield Technical Community College’s Technology Park in Springfield. Mike Taber, founder and president of Moon River Software Inc., and Bill Bither, founder and president of Atalasoft Inc., are the presenters. A representative from Nicolai Law Group will also present possible legal issues involving podcasting, blogging, and digital marketing. The event is free to RTC members and $40 to nonmembers. Advanced registration is required. For more information, contact April Cloutier at [email protected].

“Guerrilla Marketing”

March 28: Inspired by a Guerrilla Marketing philosophy, this workshop by the Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will distill an MBA curriculum’s worth of marketing planning fundamentals to seven essential sentences. Also, learn the four key principles upon which all success rests. The session is planned from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. The cost is $30. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

“Ordinary People Make a Difference”

March 28: Elenore Long, Ph.D., will discuss a five-point model that describes how ordinary people develop public voices that allow them to make the world a better place as part of the Kaleidoscope series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. Her lecture is planned at 7 p.m. in Blake Student Commons and is free. Based upon analysis of not-for-profit community organizations, the model contributes to rhetoric studies and community informatics, and aids the growing commitment across college campuses to support its students, educators, and community as moral agents in their own lives. For more information, call (413) 565-1293 or visit www.baypath.edu.

Academic Conference

March 30: The second annual Academic Conference titled Current Issues in Community Economic Development is planned from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Western New England College in Springfield. The conference, hosted by the Law and Business Center for Advancing Entrepreneurship, will feature legal and business scholars, industry representatives, and policy makers exploring issues relating to entrepreneurship and community development. Panel topics will include ‘Set-Asides and Affirmative Action,’ ‘Public-Private Partnerships,’ ‘Urban Entrepreneurship,’ and ‘Fringe Bankers.’ Andrea Silbert, co-founder and former CEO of the Center for Women & Enterprise, will be the keynote speaker during the luncheon. For more information, call (413) 736-8462 or E-mail to [email protected].

Improving Your Web Site

April 4: This Mass. Small Business Development Center Network workshop will focus on designing or redesigning your web site to work better once you’ve got your customers there. The 9 a.m. to noon session is planned at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. The cost is $35. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

Creating Healthy Conversations

April 18: Guillermo Cuellar, Ed.D., MBA faculty member, and MBA students, discuss why it is so difficult to create and sustain genuine collaborative healthy conversations, even among people who have similar goals, as part of the Kaleidoscope series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. The lecture is planned at 7 p.m. in Blake Student Commons and is free. The audience and facilitators will discuss opportunities to create a culture of collaboration, beginning with how mental models or strategies for behavior determine the process of our conversations. For more information, call (413) 565-1293 or visit www.baypath.edu.

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Departments

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

Archambalt, Lillian
40 William St.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/16/07

Babih, Peter C
41 Benedict Ter.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/16/07

Balestri, Diane P.
1348 Memorial Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Bartee-Mitchell, Norma Lee
48 Daviston St.
Springfield, MA 01108-2226
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Baumbach, Krista L.
135 School St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Bickford, Donald R.
316 Silver St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Biermann, Sheila Sue
PO Box 202
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/30/07

Brinegar, William E.
807 St. James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Carcione, Barbara A.
24 Church St.
Ware, MA, 01082
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/19/07

Cardinale, Robert M.
1723 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/29/07

Cayo, Brian W.
18 Woronoco Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/25/07

Coderre, Stacey T.
Coderre, Rene F.
33 Lyn Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/20/07

Connaughton, Douglas L.
30 Kenilworth St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Czerwiecki, Timothy J.
74 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01021
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Destasio, Phillip
34 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/30/07

Duda, Knneth W.
317 Montague Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Dusza, Darren A.
113 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01113
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Gavin-Lourenco, Christine M.
250 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Giancola, Geremie H.
P.O. Box 369
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/19/07

Giroux, Ivan Donald
41 South Maple St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Goodale, Sandy S.
21 1/2 Howard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/19/07

Griswold, Barbara M.
PO Box 632
West Springfield, MA 01090
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/31/07

Hand, Donna A.
68 Russellville Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Hanson, Daniel J.
d/b/a Bailey-Hanson Mechanical
92 Vienn Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Hartman, Alice F
26 Gladsworth St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Hosek, Mark K.
91 Mildred Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/29/07

James, Sophie Elizabeth
282 Grove St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/25/07

Kapinos, Michael
135 Oldfield Road
Chicpee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/16/07

Krzanowski, Thomas William
33 Maine Ave. (Rear)
Easthampton, ME 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Kurzman, Arthur F.
P.O. Box 459
Housatonic, MA 01236
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/22/07

Lam, Bach Sa
17 Lester St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Laramee, Helen
22 Macomber
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/29/07

Lavigne, Leonie M.
39 Crooked Ledge Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Lavigne, Richard D.
538 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Lee, Kenneth R.
Lee, Cathleen M
48 Gilman St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/25/07

Levreault, Alan J.
Levreault, Catherine E.
37 South St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Lindley, James E.
216 Pine St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Loughman, Scott J.
Loughman, Mary E.
a/k/a Page, Mary E.
a/k/a Cheria, Mary E.
2 Brainard Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/16/07

  

Lourenco, Fernando
213 Beech St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Mann, William E.
75 Lyndale St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/29/07

Manzi, Frank A.
Medeiros-Manzi, Sherry L.
90 Quentin Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Massoni, Scott M.
a/k/a Always Drywall
105 Dubois St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/22/07

McGuigan, Linda
37 Benham Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/26/07

McNamara, Matthe J.
a/k/a MJM Antiques
25 Main St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Morales, Richard
Morales, Margarita
117 Blomfield St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Mullin, Matthew J.
42 Casey Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Naatz, Carrie A.
a/k/a Robinson, Carrie A.
19 Arnodale Ave.
Holyoke, MA 0140
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/16/07

Ocasio, Carmen I.
1353 Dwight St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Packard, Rosana S.
58 North East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Papuga, Donald
Papuga, Karen V.
59 Portulaca Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Purdy, Brenda A.
50 Charles St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date:

Read, Phyllis R.
25 Marjorie St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/22/07

Reese, George
33 Lakewood Dr.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Romro, Rafael
20 Summit St., Apt. 7
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/17/07

Rouleau, Christine M.
404 Chestnut Hill Ave.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/31/07

Santos, Altagracia
P.O. Box 70767
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Shaver, Dorothy H.
77 Lenox Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Slavinski, Edward J.
Slavinski, Karen B.
18 Old Richmond Road
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/22/07

Smith, Joseph
146 Fair Oak Road
Springfield, MA 0112
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/16/07

Stage Road Restorations, LLC
PO Box 18
Cummington, MA 01026
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/26/07

Stasny, William Joseph
Stasny, Karen Naomi
PO Box 715
Whately, MA 01093
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/30/07

Strader, Eric Christopher
Strader, Rebecca Marie
PO Box 143
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/30/07

Thibault, Gail A.
81 Conz St., Apt.719
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Toniatti, Michael P.
Toiatti, Tina M.
39 Dean St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/18/07

Voisine, Matthew J.
136 Skeele St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/24/07

Warren, Zachary A.
51 Southgate Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date:

Watts, Richard D.
31 Pascal Dr.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/22/07

Williams, Richard M.
Williams, Christine M.
1089 Petersham Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/29/07

Willigar, Randy J.
Willigar, Shaina K.
365 Hardwick Road
Gilbertville, MA 01031
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/31/07

Wojcik, John Andrew
41 Homecrest Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/30/07

Wotkowicz, Joseph Thomas
Wotkowicz, Sherrie Diane
9 Hoosac St.
Adams, MA 01220
Chapter: 3
Filing Date: 01/23/07

Zarlengo, Joseph C.
Land Sea & Air Hobbies
30 Brianna Lane
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/31/07

Zygarowski, Robert J.
159 Casey Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 13
Filing Date:

By
Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of February 2007.

AGAWAM

Agawam Auto Mall
825 Springfield St.
$30,000 – New siding and roof

Riverbend Medical Group LLC
230 Main St.
$46,000 – Renovations to existing pediatrics area

Six Flags New England
1623 Main St.
$30,000 – Pour footings and walls for Wave Swinger foundation

Six Flags New England
1623 Main St.
$50,000 – Pour foundation for bathroom in new employee entrance

Town of Agawam
65 Begley St.
$600,000 – Addition to Robinson School

Town of Agawam
689 Main St.
$600,000 – Addition to Benjamin Phelps School

AMHERST

Amherst College Trustees
Converse Hall
$268,000 – Convert from classrooms to financial aid offices

First Congregational Church
165 Main St.
$8,000 – Renovations to second floor bathroom
Todd Cellura
495 West St. 1A
$16,000 – Create new office suite

CHICOPEE

David Pulcinin
753 Memorial Dr.
$242,000 – Exterior and interior renovations to Popeye’s Chicken restaurant

GREENFIELD

Franklin County Community Development Corporation
324 Wells St.
$32,500 – Renovations at main office

Robar Inc.
225-245 Mohawk Trail
$275,000 – Interior tenant up-fit to include mechanical, electrical, and structural

HADLEY

Gulmohar Realty Corporation
237-239 Russell St.
$790,000 – New addition to the Quality Inn

  

LUDLOW

Big Y Trust/Extreme Fitness Center
433 Center St.
$31,000 – Commercial alterations

NORTHAMPTON

Cooley Dickenson Hospital
30 Locust St.
$55,000 – Renovate existing space for offices

Todd A. Marchefka
74 Bridge St.
$250,000 – Construction of new commercial building

SPRINGFIELD

Acme Metals & Recycling
64 Napier St.
$82,000 – Pre-engineered building placed on existing foundation

Bobby Cheng
901 Carew St.
$9,000 – Upgrade restroom & workstations for salon

Dask Partnership
90 Carando Drive
$85,000 – Renovations for Trane Air

John Lavoie
455 Breckwood Boulevard
$193,500 – Alter vacant store to restaurant

Kenneth Bernstein
4 Plumtree Road
$15,000 – Renovation to business and reception office

Picknelly Family LLC
1414 Main St.
$150,000 – Tenant fit-out of 3450 square feet

Smith and Wesson Inc.
2100 Roosevelt Avenue
$664,000 – Erect a long-gun firing range

Springfield Realty LLC
299 Carew St.
$255,000 – Renovate doctor’s office space

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Hebert J.P. & K.J. Trustees
333 Elm St.
$100,000 – Renovate first-floor existing office space

John C. Nekitodoulos
241 Bliss St.
$350,000 – Erect addition to existing commercial building

By
Departments

WNEC Launches Institute for Media and Non-Profit Communication

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England College has unveiled a new initiative to assist local nonprofit agencies, the Institute for Media and Non-Profit Communication, which will be led by director Brenda Garton. The institute is an outgrowth of the work of the college’s Department of Communication. Since 2003, students have been producing promotional videos for nonprofit organizations through a specialized course. The initiative offers professional-quality video production to social service agencies at a minimal charge. While this service is critical for the agencies, the curriculum provides students with professional experience writing, producing, shooting, and editing a promotional video. The creation of the institute will allow WNEC to expand this service, assisting more nonprofits. To date, WNEC students have produced videos for 16 groups which have been used in presentations to members of the public, prospective donors and on various Web sites.

Paradise City Tops National Show Ranking

NORTHAMPTON — Paradise City Arts Festivals recently received recognition on both the national and regional fronts for its accomplishments. For the third year running, Paradise City has been voted among the top five art and craft fairs in America by the readers of AmericanStyle Magazine. For the second year in a row, Paradise City was ranked #2 nationwide. In other news, the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau announced that Geoffrey and Linda Post, founding directors of Paradise City, are the recipients of its 2007 Spotlight Award. The award recognizes Paradise City’s significant impact on tourism and the economy, and the directors’ enormous promotional efforts over the past 13 years to draw visitors and bring recognition to the Pioneer Valley.

Big E Named ABA Top 100 Event

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The American Bus Association has once again recognized The Big E as one of its Top 100 Events for 2007. The selection committee, consisting of U.S. and Canadian travel professionals, evaluated hundreds of events and selected The Big E as one of the best events to experience via motorcoach this year. The Big E is featured with the other 99 events in the ABA’s annual publication as well as on its Web site, www.buses.org.

Bank Contributes $25,000 to Save Echodale Farm

EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton Savings Bank recently donated $25,000 to the Pascommuck Conservation Trust and The Trust For Public Land to save Echodale Farm. The 165-acre farm, located on Park Hill Road in Easthampton, is the largest working farm in the city. The Pascommuck Conservation Trust and The Trust For Public Land have been fundraising since last May to raise $300,000. Easthampton Savings Bank’s contribution at the leadership level is the largest community investment in Echodale Farm to date.

Spalding Introduces Electronic Sports Whistle

SPRINGFIELD — Spalding is now offering two electronic hand-operated sports whistles that feature a fast-action button to eliminate the need for human air and can be used in all climates and environments. Spalding is launching two variations, an orange whistle with a single tone and a grey whistle that offers three distinct tones to help players differentiate between coaches and/or officials during multi-field play. Wal-Mart and Academy will be the first retailers with the electronic whistles in distribution. Wal-Mart will carry both items in select stores, while Academy will carry the single tone.

YWCA, Springfield Day Nursery Open Joanna’s Room

SPRINGFIELD — The YWCA of Western Mass. recently opened the doors to Joanna’s Room, the area’s first on-site early education and care program inside a shelter for battered women and children. The YWCA worked in partnership with the Springfield Day Nursery, the Department of Early Education and Care, and the New England Farm Workers Council to bring the day care center to fruition. Joanna’s Room is named to honor the many efforts of her father, state Sen. Stephen Buoniconi, on behalf of the region’s children and families. Joanna is Buoniconi’s seven-year-old daughter. Through developmentally appropriate curriculum and lesson plans, Springfield Day Nursery’s program will work to counter the specific educational and emotional needs of 20 infants, toddlers, and preschoolers who have experienced or witnessed domestic violence. Additionally, Springfield Day Nursery will provide information, education and modeling of appropriate parenting skills, as well as the importance of oral hygiene and nutrition. Other mental health and medical services will be accessed through Springfield Day Nursery’s existing contracts and partnerships with community-based programs including the Behavioral Health Network and Baystate Health System. Joanna’s Room will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekdays.

Restaurant Opens New Location After Fire

THREE RIVERS — Pinocchio’s Ristorante, formally La Cucina di Pinocchio’s in Amherst, recently opened at 2054 Bridge St. In July of 2005, a fire caused the closing of the original Pinocchio’s which forced the restaurant to close. With the owners of the former property unable to obtain the necessary permits to rebuild the site, the scouting for a new location began, according to owner Chris Brunelle. He said he chose the location in Three Rivers for its close proximity to Wilbraham, Ludlow, and Belchertown. Pinocchio’s specializes in fine Italian cuisine set in a warm Tuscan setting. The new location will also feature a Pinocchio’s on the Go which specializes in casual Italian fare for take out or delivery. Currently, there is a Pinocchio’s on the Go in Amherst and Ludlow.

MassMutual Makes Major Gift to WNEC

SPRINGFIELD — The MassMutual Financial Group has made a $300,000 gift to Western New England College Law and Business Center for Advancing Entrepreneurship, a gift that will have an impact on both the educational experience at the college and the local economy. A joint venture of the WNEC School of Law and School of Business, the center coordinates teams of faculty members, graduate students and undergraduates to provide legal and business expertise to as many as 30 budding entrepreneurs each year. The gift also furthers the goals of WNEC’s current $20 million comprehensive fundraising effort, “Transformations: The Campaign for Western New England College.”

NewAlliance Completes Westbank Acquisition

WEST SPRINGFIELD — NewAlliance Bancshares Inc. recently completed its acquisition of Westbank Corporation, providing its initial entry into Massachusetts. Shareholders of Westbank approved the acquisition and the banks received the required regulatory approvals in December. The cash-and-stock transaction was valued at approximately $116 million when announced. The acquisition supports NewAlliance’s growth strategy, providing it with additional assets of $827 million and deposits of $606 million as of Sept. 30, 2006. It also gives the bank a strong immediate presence in Western Massachusetts, mainly along the I-91 corridor, as well as in towns contiguous to NewAlliance branches in northeastern Connecticut. After the recent unveiling of the name on the old Westbank headquarters, the NewAlliance Foundation announced three grants of $5,000 each to HAP Inc., the Food Bank of Western Mass., and the Holyoke Health Center.

Construction Underway For Senior Living Community

LUDLOW — Ground was broken recently for Keystone Commons by Keystone Senior, LLC, a 90-unit, $15 million independent and assisted living community at 460 West St. The project will provide a needed full-service rental housing option for area seniors, help fuel the local economy, and bring permanent jobs to the area, according to Victor J. Field, partner in the Keystone Commons project. The state-of-the-art community, due for completion in early 2008, will include three distinctive neighborhoods: one for independent living residents, a second for assisted living residents, and a third for individuals who require memory care.

Bank Branch To Open in Wal-Mart

WARE — Country Bank for Savings is slated to open its second branch in Leicester in the coming weeks in a new Wal-Mart Supercenter. Country Bank will have four branches in Worcester County when the Supercenter branch opens on March 14, and 15 branches in total. The new 700-square-foot branch, at 1626 Main St., will be open seven days a week for the convenience of its customers. The new branch will feature four customer service representatives and a branch manager.

ITT Power Solutions Makes Donation

WEST SPRINGFIELD — ITT Power Solutions recently presented a check for $6,000 to the West Springfield High School Robotics Team. In making the check presentation, ITT Power Solutions President and General Manager James P. Faughnan noted that their business relies on local schools to develop students who are well-rounded, skilled in math and science, and who have had opportunities to compete and to lead. The company also offers an annual $500 engineering scholarship to promote engineering in the community.

By
Departments

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

AMHERST

Goodwin & Goodwin Inc., 460 West St., Suite A, Amherst 01002. Brien James Goodwin, 231 Elm St., Apt. 1R, Northampton 01060. Manufacturing, sales, and distribution of baked goods to retail and wholesale customers.

The Nyansa Project Ltd., 22 Emily Lane, Amherst 01002. Rev. Robert Andoh, Sekondi Assemblies of God Church, Takorandi, GHA. Dennis Hanno Dean, 22 Emily Lane, Amherst 01002, treasurer. (Nonprofit) To stimulate economic development in Ghana and surrounding nations, with a specific focus on the Takoranda and Sekondi metropolitcan area, etc.

BELCHERTOWN

Apremont Applications Inc., 515 Michael Sears Road, Belchertown 01007. Joyce Christine Poulin, same. Waterproofing, damp-proofing, building restoration.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Spagnuolo Subs Inc., 85 Holland Dr., East Longmeadow 01028. Judith A. Spagnuolo, same. Submarine sandwich shop.

HADLEY

Russell St Realty Corp., 8 River Dr., Hadley 01035. John P. Regish, 22 West St., Hadley 01035. Real estate development and leasing.

INDIAN ORCHARD

Paesano’s Pizzeria Inc., 306 Pasco Road, Indian Orchard 01151. Arduino Siniscalchi, 108 Sawmill Road, Springfield 01118. Pizza shop.

LONGMEADOW

Longmeadow Youth Basketball Association, Inc., 136 Grassy Gutter Road, Longmeadow 01106. Steven Dudeck, same. (Nonprofit) To provide an organized and structured basketball program that fosters the players’ appreciation for the game in a competitive team environment, etc.

New England Payroll Inc., 178 Nevins Ave., Longmeadow 01106. Scott Feinstein, same. Payroll processor.

LUDLOW

Parmar Brothers Inc., 321 Center St., Ludlow 01056. Sharpool S. Parmar, 239 Russell St., Hadley 01035. Hotel.

MILLERS FALLS

Rich Young Property Management Inc., 84 Federal St., Millers Falls 01349. Richard A. Young, same. Management of real property.

NORTHAMPTON

Hampshire Flooring & Tile Co. Inc., 141 Damon Road, Northampton 01060. John K. Asselin, 56 West Pelham Road, Shutesbury 01072. Retail flooring sales.

ORANGE

Sharon’s White Cloud Inc., 627 East River St., Orange 01364. Sharon L. Prue, same. To provide food and restaurant services, etc.

PALMER

GTB Cases Corp., 1240 Park St., P.O. Box 660, Palmer 01069. George T. Benoit, same. Sales and distribution of specialty cases.

RUSSELL

Utility Assistance Corp., 178 Dickinson Hill Road, Russell 01070. Frederick J. Wojick, Jr., same. Contracting services.

SHUTESBURY

iqSense Inc., 37 Carver Road, Shutesbury 01072. Thomas D. Williams, same. Professional consulting services related to electronics.

 

SOUTH HADLEY

Perry’s Prime Investments Inc., 39 Abbey St., South Hadley 01075. Michael Perry, same. (Foreign corp; NY) Promissory note investment.

South Hadley Community Tennis Association Inc., 93 Woodbridge St., South Hadley 01075. Ira Brezinsky, same. (Nonprofit) To establish and operate a Community Tennis Association, etc.

SOUTHAMPTON

Pignatare Construction Inc., 36 Montgomery Road, Southampton 01073. Marc C. Pignatare, same. Construction.

SOUTHWICK

Hampden West Holding Corp., 10 Coyote Glen, Southwick 01077. Edward J. Grimaldo, same. Purchase and lease of real estate.

Sportsmen’s National Land Trust-Massachusetts Chapter Inc., 239 Vining Hill Road, Southwick 01077. Ron Michonski, same. (Nonprofit) To acquire and manage open space and wildlife habitat areas, promote a conservation ethic, etc.

SPRINGFIELD

A-Z Credit Building Inc., 91 Mill Park, Suite 5, Springfield 01108. Hasapali Mohamed, same. Consumer credit building services.

JLC Services Inc., 196 Eddy St., Springfield 01105. Jeffrey L. Crapser, same. Cleaning business.

New Life Calvary Baptist Church, 981 Wilbraham Road, Springfield 01109. Rev. Jessee W. Williams, Sr., 84 Hazen Ave., Springfield 01109. (Nonprofit) To maintain public worship in accordance with the laws, traditions and customs of the New Life Calvary Baptist Church, etc.

New-Ct&Mass Construction Corp., 190 Commonwealth Ave., Springfield 01108. Guillermo R. Negron, same. General contractor, home improvement, painting, etc.

Peoples Group Company Inc., 57 Florence St., Springfield. Darnel Hunter, same. (Nonprofit) Entrepreneurial public awareness.

Slaughter Enterprises Inc., 31 Rutledge Ave., Springfield 01105. Dominique Eileen Slaughter, same. Customer services.

Xiuli Li Corp., 249 Belmont Ave., Springfield 01180. Xiuli Li, same. Personal service such as health bodyworks.

TURNERS FALLS

Alpha Stone Concrete Inc., 78 11th St., Turners Falls 01376. Daniel W. Gobillot, 19 Central St., Turners Falls 01376. Design and construction of concrete counter tops.

WESTFIELD

WFD Securities Inc., 141 Elm St., Westfield 01085. James C. Hagan, same. To deal in securities in its own behalf not as a broker but as a whole owned subsidiary of Westfield Financial, Inc.,

WILBRAHAM

Hurley’s Livery Inc., 37 High Pine Circle, Wilbraham 01095. Sheila M. Hurley, same. Transportation service.

Memorial School Parent Teacher Organization Inc., 310 Main St., Wilbraham 01095. Darlene Maconi, 16 Wagon Dr., Wilbraham 01095. (Nonprofit) To encourage cooperation among parents, school staff and community to enhance children’s education, etc.

By
Departments


Aelan B. Tierney

Aelan B. Tierney of Kuhn Riddle Architects in Amherst has completed the Architectural Registration Exams and is a licensed architect in Massachusetts. She specializes in commercial and residential projects at the firm.

•••••

 

Kleer Lumber, LLC of Westfield announced the following:
• Jack Delaney has been named Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. Delaney will reinforce Kleer’s presence in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic and expand sales into geographic markets west of the Mississippi River and throughout the country;
• Margaret P. Sims has been named Director of Special Projects. She will focus on identifying OEM opportunities with architectural companies that source PVC trimboard for a variety of building uses, and
• Jerry Craig has been named Director of New Product Development. He will explore and identify new distribution channels and new markets for Kleer PVC trimboard.

•••••

 


Christy Hedgpeth

Christy Hedgpeth has been promoted to Director of Branding and Licensing at Spalding in Springfield. She will be responsible for brand consistency across all of the Spalding businesses and will also manage existing licensees, establish new licensing partnerships with strategically aligned companies, and manage the new initiative of licensing patented technologies.

•••••

Franklin County Home Care has hired Pam Kelly as its Development Director.

•••••

Mario Godbout has been promoted to Vice President of Ball Operations at Top-Flite Golf Co. in Chicopee.

•••••

Commerce Bank & Trust Co. in Worcester has appointed John S. Kelley as Senior Vice President-Commercial Real Estate.

•••••

Northampton Attorney Harry L. Miles has received a letter of thanks from the Veterans Consortium Pro Bono Program in Washington, D.C., for his handling of a pro bono appeal for a veteran. Miles is a partner in the law firm of Green, Miles, Lipton & Fitz-Gibbon.

•••••

Friendly Ice Cream Corp. in Wilbraham announced the following:
• Jim Sullivan has been promoted to Vice President, Franchising. He will be responsible for franchise operations and sales, franchise and company development, as well as franchise and real estate services, and
• Gus DiGiovanni has been promoted to Vice President, Company Operations.

•••••

  

Springfield Technical Community College announced the following:


Michael D. Niziolek

• Michael D. Niziolek, Vice President for Human Resources at Hasbro Games, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees, and

 

 

 


Bret F. Coughlin

• Bret F. Coughlin, M.D., Vice Chairman of the Department of Radiology, and Division Chief of Abdominal Imaging at Baystate Medical Center, has been appointed to the Board of Trustees.
Their five-year terms began last fall.

•••••

Debra Guy-Akers has joined Training Resources of America Inc. as Western Massachusetts regional manager with oversight of education and training sites in Holyoke and Springfield.

•••••

Abraham J. Macutkiewicz has joined the Westfield office of Carlson GMAC Real Estate as a Sales Agent.

•••••

Patrick Hughes has been named Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing and Sales Officer for Fallon Community Health Plan.

•••••

Brenda S. Doherty of the law firm Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy in Springfield, recently earned an LL.M, Master of Laws in Taxation, from Boston University. She practices in the areas of corporate law, estate planning and taxation.

•••••

Joy Chipman has joined Steenburgh Real Estate as an Associate.

•••••

Patti Affeldt has joined Witalisz & Associates Inc. of Westfield as a Real Estate Sales Consultant.

•••••

UMass Amherst announced the following:
• English Professor Peter Gizzi’s latest poetry collection, The Outernationale, has been published by the Wesleyan University Press;
• Yeonhwa Park, Assistant Professor in the Department of Food Science, has received a 2007 Future Leader Award from the International Life Science Institute of North America, and
• A research paper by Anna Nagurney, Professor of Operations Management, and doctoral students Zugang Liu and Trisha Woolley, has been selected as the lead article in the inaugural issue of the International Journal of Sustainable Transportation.

By
Departments

Signing In

NewAlliance Bank became part of the Western Mass. landscape late last month, with the official unveiling of the corporate sign at the former Westbank headquarters in West Springfield. NewAlliance acquired WestBank last fall.

Above Patterson presented checks from the NewAlliance Foundation to HAP Inc., the Food Bank of Western Mass., and the Holyoke Health Center.

Above, West Springfield Mayor Edward Gibson and NewAlliance President, Chairman, and CEO Peyton Patterson pose under the new sign.

Show and Tell

Springfield Technology Community College recently staged a technology careers open house, at which individuals could learn about the school’s various technology programs.

Above, prospective students get a look at Holography in the college’s Laser Electro-Optics Technology program. Below right, prospective students gain first-hand insight into the Teleproduction Option in Digital Media Production.

Opening Doors for ‘Gateway Cities’

By
Opinion

It wasn’t exactly breaking news, but it was eye-opening.

A recently released report, written by the Mass. Institute for a New Commonwealth (MassINC) in conjunction with the Brookings Institution’s Metropolitan Policy Program, reveals that that knowledge-based jobs in the Commonwealth are clustered in Greater Boston, and that 11 so-called Gateway cities, including Springfield and Holyoke, and Pittsfield in Western Mass., are, by and large, not sharing in the wealth of the technology sector.

We knew that already.

What we didn’t know — or hadn’t seen spelled out in detail until this report — are the many costs associated with this phenomenon. In short, say the report’s authors, unless this pattern is reversed or mitigated, the gateway cities will fall into a deeper fiscal funk, urban sprawl will accelerate, and the pressures placed on Greater Boston, especially the costs of living and doing business, will continue to escalate, forcing people and businesses to leave the state.

In other words, and to paraphrase the report’s conclusion, spreading the wealth isn’t merely the democratic thing to do, it’s the right thing to do, and for many reasons.

The report calls on elected and appointed leaders to take steps to address this problem. They range from enhancing infrastructure and transportation to improving public education to create a better workforce in a state that is losing population. We suggest the Patrick administration and the state Legislature heed the suggestions in the report, titled Reconnecting Massachusetts Gateway Cities: Lessons Learned and an Agenda for Renewal — because these problems will not fix themselves.

The most important word in the report’s title is reconnecting. At the moment, those gateway cities — Brockton, Fall River, Fitchburg, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, New Bedford, and Worcester are the others — are far less connected than they once were. They are more isolated and, in many ways, more vulnerable.

Why? Because the manufacturing bases that allowed them all to once thrive — precision machining in Springfield, paper in Holyoke, textiles in Lowell and Lawrence, shoes in Brockton, fishing in New Bedford — are all in various states of decline and with little or no hope of regaining past glory.

Each of those cities is searching for something to replace what’s been lost, but most have found only frustration. Some have benefited from simple geography — being close to Greater Boston has yielded some opportunities, especially in housing; Lowell’s old mills, for example, have been converted into high-end condos that constitute affordable housing to those priced out of the Boston market. But geography does not help Springfield, Holyoke, or Pittsfield.

What will help are steps to enable them to compete for knowledge-based jobs by compelling existing businesses and those in the formative stages to look beyond the Route 128 beltway. At the moment, most businesses don’t because they don’t see enough reason to; Boston has made the adjustment from an industrial to a knowledge-based economy, and other cities, especially those in the 413 area code, are still working on it and have much left to do.

Demographics plays a key role in these struggles; cities like Springfield have 30% or more of their populations living below the poverty line. Many of these individuals lack the skills needed to hold jobs in a knowledge-based economy. Meanwhile, as the name ‘gateway’ implies, these cities are home to many immigrants who lack the language skills to make it in today’s economy.

To make the gateway cities more competitive, there must be a local and statewide focus on everything from transportation to improving public education to better utilizing assets, especially state and community colleges, to spark economic development.

The solutions to the problems of the gateway cities won’t come easily, and the report’s authors say as much. But if steps aren’t taken to accelerate their transition to a knowledge-based economy, there will be some long-term consequences for the Commonwealth.

Let the process of reconnecting these cities commence.

By
Departments

“Who’s Driving the Bus?”

Feb. 21: The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will host this workshop geared toward anyone looking to bring an energetic attitude into the environment of a start-up or existing business. The class is planned from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. Cost is $35. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

Photographs in Courage

Feb. 27: Anja Niedringhaus, an Associated Press photographer and Nieman Fellow, Harvard University, will discuss her work in war torn places including Albania, Bosnia, Croatia, Kosovo, Israel, Kuwait, Turkey and Iraq, as part of the Kaleidoscope series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. Her lecture is planned at 7 p.m. in Blake Student Commons and is free. In 2005, she was a recipient of the International Women’s Media Foundation’s Courage Award, honoring women journalists who have shown extraordinary strength of character and integrity while reporting under dangerous or difficult circumstances. For more information, call (413) 565-1293 or visit www.baypath.edu.

LEAD Program

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Western New England College in Springfield and the Employers Association of the Northeast are accepting registrations for its Leadership Enhancement and Development (LEAD) certificate program. The intensive, five-day program is designed for businesspeople looking to move up within their organization. Topics include leadership, communication, managing change, preparing financial statements and budgets, human resource management and strategic planning. Classes are planned on five consecutive Fridays in March from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call WNEC at (413) 782-1473, or online at www.wnec.edu/gsce/ps.

Research Tools Seminar
March 7: The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will host this free workshop that will introduce entrepreneurs and small business owners to the print and electronic resources available at their local library. Participants will learn to search selected databases and publications, create search strategies, and locate information to start or grow a business. The class is planned from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Springfield City Library, 220 State St., Springfield. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

Toyota Way

March 8: The UMass Family Business Center (FBC) will present a dinner forum based on the 14 principles of Toyota known as the “Toyota Way” from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Chez Josef in Agawam. Twelve FBC members will describe Toyota’s business practices of manufacturing high-quality products and services. Presenters include: Michael Francouer, Joining Technologies; Jeff Glaze, Decorated Products; Larry Grenier, The Greniers Family of Photographers; Cindy Johnson, Fran Johnson’s Golf and Racquet Headquarters; Scott MacKenzie, MacKenzie Vaults; Jason Mark, Gravity Switch; Curio Nataloni, Kitchens by Curio; Jim Sagalyn, Holyoke Machine; Michael Schaefer, October Company; Joanne Goding, Moss Nutrition; David Rothenberg, Bottaro Skolnick Interiors, and Bill Dempsey, HL Dempsey Co. For more information or reservations, visit www.umass.edu/fambiz, or call Ira Bryck, FBC’s Continuing & Professional Education, at (413) 545-1537.

“Customer Loyalty Best Practices”

March 14: Do you know what your customers are saying about you? The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will sponsor this workshop that features interesting feedback from area visitors presented by the Berkshire Visitors Bureau. In addition, a discussion of best practices for developing customer loyalty is planned. The class will be conducted from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, 75 North St., Suite 360, Pittsfield. The cost is $30. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

“Guerrilla Marketing”

March 28: Inspired by a Guerrilla Marketing philosophy, this workshop by the Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will distill an MBA curriculum’s worth of marketing planning fundamentals to seven essential sentences. Also, learn the four key principles upon which all success rests. The session is planned from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. The cost is $30. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

“Ordinary People Make a Difference”

March 28: Elenore Long, Ph.D., will discuss a five-point model that describes how ordinary people develop public voices that allow them to make the world a better place as part of the Kaleidoscope series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. Her lecture is planned at 7 p.m. in Blake Student Commons and is free. Based upon analysis of not-for-profit community organizations, the model contributes to rhetoric studies and community informatics, and aids the growing commitment across college campuses to support its students, educators, and community as moral agents in their own lives. For more information, call (413) 565-1293 or visit www.baypath.edu.

Academic Conference

March 30: The second annual Academic Conference titled “Current Issues in Community Economic Development” is planned from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Western New England College in Springfield. The conference, hosted by the Law and Business Center for Advancing Entrepreneurship, will feature legal and business scholars, industry representatives, and policy makers exploring issues relating to entrepreneurship and community development. Panel topics will include “Set-Asides and Affirmative Action,” “Public-Private Partnerships,” “Urban Entrepreneurship,” and “Fringe Bankers.” Andrea Silbert, co-founder and former CEO of the Center for Women & Enterprise, will be the keynote speaker during the luncheon. For more information, call (413) 736-8462 or e-mail to [email protected].

Improving Your Web Site

April 4: This Mass. Small Business Development Center Network workshop will focus on designing or redesigning your web site to work better once you’ve got your customers there. The 9 a.m. to noon session is planned at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. The cost is $35. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

Creating Healthy Conversations

April 18: Guillermo Cuellar, Ed.D., MBA faculty member, and MBA students, discuss why it is so difficult to create and sustain genuine collaborative healthy conversations, even among people who have similar goals, as part of the Kaleidoscope series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow. The lecture is planned at 7 p.m. in Blake Student Commons and is free. The audience and facilitators will discuss opportunities to create a culture of collaboration, beginning with how mental models or strategies for behavior determine the process of our conversations. For more information, call (413) 565-1293 or visit www.baypath.edu.

By
Departments

Commission to Study Gambling Avenues

BOSTON — In the coming weeks, a casino study commission will be created by Gov. Deval Patrick to study the feasibility of casinos in the state and whether that initiative would help boost the economy. The commission is expected to study the pros and cons of gambling and its social and economic effects over the course of six months. The commission has been charged with framing the issue for Patrick rather than making concrete recommendations. Commission membership will include individuals from across the state, as well as someone who understands Western Massachusetts’ interests. The state Legislature would need to approve any proposal that would legalize casinos.

AIM’s Confidence Index Declines in January

BOSTON — The Associated Industries of Massachusetts (AIM) Business Confidence Index lost 2.6 points in January to 56.6, reflecting state employers’ weakening in sales and concerns about business conditions within the state. Despite closing 2006 with its best quarter since 2004, the index has now returned to the lackluster, moderately positive range where it spent most of 2005-2006, according to Raymond Torto, co-chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors and principal, CBRE Torto Wheaton. Torto added that January’s reading was, however, 1.9 points above its level from last January. By type of employer, confidence was off sharply in January among manufacturers, and fractionally among other employers. Manufacturing sector respondents were largely responsible for the considerably lower ratings for current conditions, state business climate, and sales. On a regional basis, confidence levels held up better in Greater Boston than in the rest of the state, according to Torto. Large employers were more positive than smaller ones on most questions, with small employers on balance negative about conditions in the state. The monthly index is based on a survey of AIM member companies across the state, asking questions about current and prospective business conditions in the state and nation, as well as for their respective organizations.

National Jobless Rate Inches Up

WASHINGTON — Employers across the country slowed hiring in January, pushing the unemployment rate to a four-month high of 4.6%. In contracts, the Labor Department’s employment report suggests that the jobs market remains solid. The country saw an increase of 111,000 positions created in January, compared with 206,000 in December. Analysts predict that the economy’s growth as a whole will remain moderate which, in turn, means the unemployment rate may slowly climb during the year. Job eliminations in January were seen in automotive companies, factories, furniture makers and homebuilders, all attributed to the housing slump and the ailing auto industry. Job gains included hospitals and nursing homes, restaurants and bars, engineering and architectural firms and bookkeeping companies.

Kittredge Property Goes on the Market

SPRINGFIELD — The East Columbus Avenue building of Kittredge Equipment Co. is on the market for $1.75 million since its lease has expired and the company is seeking a more modern warehouse for its bustling business. The one-acre site includes a two-story building at the corner of East Columbus and Liberty streets, a one-story showroom, and a four-story office building at East Columbus Avenue and Emery Street. William H. Low Jr. of Samuel D. Plotkin and Associates is handling the property for George and Sid Kittredge, the former owners of the kitchen supply company.

Sotirion Given 9-Year Prison Term

SPRINGFIELD — Arthur Sotirion, 58, the former assistant director of the Springfield Housing Authority, was recently given a prison term of nine years and one month for his role in the decade-long corruption scheme of the agency. Following his 109 months in federal prison, Sotirion will also be subjected to three years of supervised release and will pay a $150,000 fine. Both Sotirion and Raymond B. Asselin, Sotirion’s boss at the authority for 30 years, pleaded guilty last summer and were facing up to 14 years in prison. Both men resigned under pressure in 2003 and pleaded guilty to conspiracy, tax evasion, and racketeering charges as part of a 12-defendant plea deal last summer.

MTF Forecast: Slowdown in Tax Revenues

BOSTON — The growth in state tax revenues will slow markedly in 2007 and 2008 — to less than half the rate of 2006, according to a recent forecast by the Mass. Taxpayers Foundation. The MTF estimates that fiscal 2007 tax revenues will total $19.27 billion, an increase of 4.2% over 2006 and $135 million higher than the forecast released by the Romney administration in October. In fiscal 2006, tax revenues increased by 8.2%. According to the foundation’s forecast, the growth in tax revenues will slow further — to 3.0% in fiscal 2008. Tax revenues will rise to $19.85 billion, an increase of only $580 million over 2007.

By
Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of January 2007.

AGAWAM

Palatium Realty – Ralph DePalma
1182 Springfield St.
$250,000 – Construct commercial building for dental office

AMHERST

Amherst College Trustees
Wilson Admissions
$35,000 — Interior renovations to North Wing

Gorden Chen
319 Main St.
$14,000 — Convert existing space into grocery store

EASTHAMPTON

Riverside Industries
One Cottage St.
$27,325 — New roof

Robert Sparrow
One Industrial Park
$15,000 — New wall between office spaces

EAST LONGMEADOW

Roland Bretta
601-603 North Main St.
$200,000 — Construction of one-story office building

GREENFIELD

Christopher J. Ethier
76 Hope St.
$60,000 — Renovate space for use as a night club

HADLEY

Laxman Palmer
237-239 Russell St.
$5000 — Replace siding on motel

HOLYOKE

AR Green & Sons Inc.
200 South Water St.
$646,000 — Interior re-model and replace existing roof

Holyoke Mall Company Inc
50 Holyoke St.
$90,000 — Mezzanine infill and interior remodel

Holyoke Mall Company Inc.
50 Holyoke St.
$117,000 — Remodel of Starbucks Coffee

Mount Tom Mental Health Center
40 Bobala Road
$7,000 — Install three offices and a storage area

Sisters of Providence
Main St.
$6,500 — Install six-foot-high fence

LUDLOW

United Development Group, LLC
562 Holyoke St.
$976,000 — New construction of an equipment rental business

  

NORTHAMPTON

Emerald City Partners, LLC
17 New South Road
$8,900 — Replace hot water heater and kitchen floor and repair 6 windows

SOUTHWICK

Duncan Real Estate
392 College Highway
$4,000 — New roof

SPRINGFIELD

American International College
1000 State St.
$4,000 — Interior renovations to Courniotes Hall

Baystate Medical Center
259 Chestnut St. – Suite 202
$19,000 — Modify existing waiting room

Jeff Armitage
1060 Wilbraham Road
$22,000 — Install partitions for 15 tanning rooms

John Lavoie
455 Breckwood Boulevard
$193,000 — Convert empty store to restaurant

Kool Smiles Dental Clinic
1070 St. James Avenue
$810,000 — Renovate existing retail space to dental office

Lily Enterprise
622 Cottage St.
$412,000 — Construct new cab company

Mountain Development
1655 Boston Road
$12,000 — Interior renovations to create two office spaces

New North Citizens Council
2455 Main St.
$12,000 — Construction of walls and doors for new restroom facilities in daycare

Springfield Park Department
1187 Parker St.
$15,000 — Interior renovations

WESTFIELD

Colvest, Westfield LLC
31 Franklin St.
$400,000 — Renovate existing building to liquor store

Russell S. Fox
2 Russell Road
$5,000 — Renovation to commercial building

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Gandara Mental Health Center
147 Norman St.
$40,000 — Expand office space

By
Departments

Ware-Based Bank Changes Name and Builds New Branch

` WARE — Ware Co-operative Bank is changing its name to FamilyFirst Bank, in a move that the institution’s president believes is necessary to reflect a new focus and commitment. “We did not come to this decision lightly,” said Gail A. Piatek. “Although we think fondly of Ware Co-operative and all that it represents, we want to let the community know where our main interests are, and we think our name says it best.” Piatek said the bank researched a number of options and interviewed customers before making the change. “Then, we decided to bring to the forefront what has been most important to our customers for years, the way we respect and treat them like family. We also recognize that our customers’ families are the most important aspect of their lives, so the new name reflects that.” In addition to the name change, FamilyFirst is building a new full-service branch office in East Brookfield this year. This new branch will add a presence to a third county, as currently the Ware branch is in Hampshire, the Three Rivers branch is in Hampden, and now the East Brookfield branch will be in Worcester County. That was another reason for the bank’s name change; it wanted people in the Brookfields to relate to their new bank in a meaningful way.

MassMutual Donates 100 Computers to STCC

SPRINGFIELD — One hundred Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) students will be receiving free computers through a donation from MassMutual. The computers will be accepted by the STCC Foundation and then refurbished by STCC students to be given to other students. “MassMutual has long felt that the biggest impact we can have on the community is through education,” said Ron Copes, corporate vice president, Strategic Communications and Community Responsibility, MassMutual. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to donate these computers and hope they will come in useful for STCC students in their educational endeavors.” This pilot program at STCC will accept donated computers and load them with free open source software, a Linux-based system called Ubuntu. Four STCC computer students — Mark Musante of Palmer, Eric Reynolds of West Springfield, Lance Cargill of East Longmeadow, and Rhea Scruggs of Springfield — will load the new operating system and software under the supervision of Computer Information Technologies instructor Stanley Jamrog. The computers will be given to STCC students who would not be able to purchase one on their own. Through a campus-wide application process, which includes a brief essay, students will be able to apply for one of the free computers. The computers will be given out throughout the semester, as they are made ready.

Easthampton Savings Has Strong Fourth Quarter

EASTHAMPTON — Easthampton Savings Bank has reported “exceptional growth” in assets, deposits, loans and capital in the fourth quarter, according to William S. Hogan, Jr., President and CEO. The bank’s total assets have grown to $702 million, an increase of 5%. Hogan also noted that the bank’s total loans increased 6% to $28 million, with total loans now at more than $523 million. In addition, the bank’s deposit growth was up $20 million for the year — an increase of 4%. Total deposits now stand at more than $534 million.

Progressive Enters State Market

CHICOPEE — Progressive Insurance Company has formally entered the Massachusetts commercial automobile insurance market with 35 independent insurance agencies to serve as exclusive representatives for the company. In other states, Progressive also sells direct to business, but in Massachusetts has opted to operate entirely through a limited group of agents located in the state. First American Insurance Agency in Chicopee has confirmed it has been selected to represent Progressive. Corey Murphy, vice president, First American Insurance Agency, said the appointment of his agency was a result of an extended review process between the two organizations. He said he is confident that Progressive’s successful ‘Drive’ commercial auto insurance program will provide commercial vehicle owners with competitive choices. The ‘Drive’ program is noted for its low pricing and superior coverage options, according to Murphy. Murphy added that more than 500,000 commercial customers already are Progressive Drive customers, and he anticipates many state businesses owning commercial vehicles to be likely candidates for the new program.

Berkshire Bank Opens Branch in NY

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Hills Bancorp Inc. recently opened its second full-service branch in Guilderland, N.Y. This is also the second branch opened in the Capital Region, with two more planned to open in Glenville and Colonie in the coming weeks. Berkshire Hills Bancorp is the holding company for Berkshire Bank. In other company news, Berkshire Hills Bancorp reported a 37% increase in net income to $11.3 million in 2006 from $8.2 million in 2005. Earnings growth included the benefit of organic growth and expansion, along with the acquisition of Woronoco Bancorp in June 2005. For the fourth quarter, the company reported 2006 core income of $4.2 million, compared to $4.6 million in 2005. This decrease was due to additional after-tax costs of the de novo branch program and seasonal losses on newly acquired insurance operations. The Board of Directors declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.14 per share, payable on Feb. 22, 2007, to stockholders of record at the close of business on Feb. 8.

Spalding Produces Official ABA Basketball

SPRINGFIELD — The American Basketball Association Inc. (ABA) has selected Spalding to produce the famous red, white, and blue basketball used by the ABA in all official games. Joe Newman, ABA’s CEO, noted that the new Spalding ball was introduced at the recent ABA All-Star Game in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Newman added that the league intends to offer several variations of the ball — from the official ball, to replicas, to an outside rubber ball.

Hampden Bancorp Inc. Completes Stock Offering, Conversion

SPRINGFIELD — Hampden Bancorp Inc. recently completed the conversion of the holding company structure of Hampden Bank from mutual to stock form and the related stock offering at the maximum offering amount, as adjusted, according to Thomas R. Burton, President. In completing the conversion and stock offering, Hampden Bancorp Inc. sold 7,571,313 shares of common stock to eligible account holders of Hampden Bank and to the Hampden Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan at a price of $10 per share. The offering was oversubscribed by Hampden Bank depositors as of April 30, 2005, the first priority category. As a result, 6,935,323 shares will be allocated to them based on their deposits as of April 30, 2005, and the Hampden Bank Employee Stock Ownership Plan will be allocated 635,990 shares as provided in the amended and restated plan of conversion. Additionally, as part of the conversion, Hampden Bancorp Inc. will contribute 378,566 shares ($3.8 million based on the $10 offering price) to establish the Hampden Bank Charitable Foundation, a new charitable foundation that will make grants in markets in which Hampden Bank has offices. After the conversion and offering, Hampden Bancorp will have 7,949,879 shares outstanding. Shares of Hampden Bancorp Inc.’s common stock are on the NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “HBNK.”

Louis W. Doherty Scholarship Created

SPRINGFIELD — A scholarship in the name of the late Attorney Louis W. Doherty, one of the founders of Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, P.C., has been established by his sons, James and Paul Doherty, at Mass. Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) in Boston. The scholarship will support the mission of MCLE to provide specialized professional training for attorneys providing services to low- and moderate-income clients. MCLE’s scholarship program, which the new Doherty Scholarship will benefit, helps make it possible for hundreds of the state’s vulnerable residents to receive the legal services they need. Doherty graduated from Harvard Law School in 1922, returning to Springfield to practice law. In 1967, he joined colleagues from Harvard to found the general practice, Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury and Murphy. He served in World War I and was also chair of the World War II bond effort in Springfield. He also served on a variety of local organizations in his lifetime. Doherty’s granddaughter, Attorney Brenda S. Doherty, is a business and tax associate at the firm.

MassMutual Receives Humanitarian Award

SPRINGFIELD — The American Red Cross recently presented its Circle of Humanitarians Award to Stuart H. Reese, chairman, president and chief executive officer, of MassMutual. The award is presented to only the most philanthropic corporations to acknowledge their outstanding support of the American Red Cross, nationally, regionally, and locally. MassMutual was recognized for its leadership in supporting the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, as well as support of the local Pioneer Valley chapter during the busy fire season. Specifically, MassMutual’s combined corporate, individual/employee, and employee matching funds efforts for Hurricane Katrina efforts totaled $800,000.

Tighe & Bond Announces New Scholarship

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond has announced the creation of the Philip W. Sheridan Scholarship in honor of the firm’s past president. The scholarship will provide financial assistance to a Hampden or Hampshire County high school graduate pursuing a career in civil engineering or a related field. Under Sheridan’s leadership, the firm grew from 10 employees in the 1960s to more than 130 in the ’90s. During his tenure, Sheridan planned, designed, and oversaw the construction of many Hampden and Hampshire County public water supply wells, reservoirs and storage tanks; water distribution systems; sewer systems and pump stations, and water and wastewater treatment plants. Retiring in 1995, Sheridan currently resides in Holyoke. For more information on the scholarship, visit www.tighebond.com.

By
Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2007.

AGAWAM

Goliath General Contracting
1060 North St. Extension
Jeremy Roscoe

Hell Creek Saddlery
168 Elm St.
Sean Picktop

Highland Lake Writing
88 Doane Ave.
JoAnn Mason

L.M. Parts
26 Faymore Dr.
Eric Anderson

Rose Real Estate Group
149 Brookfield Lane
Raymond J. Rose Jr.

WRB Consulting
193 Coyote Circle
Wayne R. Ball

AMHERST

Lawrence H. Smith Properties
9 Squire Lane
Althea Dabrowski

Tenderhearts Family Daycare
123 Logtown Road
Dania Suarez

CHICOPEE

Dream House Siding Company
45 C Colonial Circle
Richard Francis Boucher

Dynamic Network Solutions
31 Loveland Terrace
Michael T. Malley

InStar Services Group
30 Haynes Circle
Gary Grout

JBA Low Voltage Contractors
123 Wheatland Avenue
Jeffrey B. Averill

Porter and Chester Institute
134 Dulong Circle
Eric Emet

Royal Touch
80 Boileau Terrace
Joshua Pendrick

SJR Bookkeeping
47 Coakley Dr.
Sara J. Rzewnicki

Stanley General Contractors
27 Richelieu St.
Stanislaw Orzol

Tony’s Sunoco Inc.
2041 Memorial Dr.
Anthony Elias

Vital’s Auto Service
451 Granby Road
Vital Fonseca

EASTHAMPTON

Lynzi Wildheart
26 Spring St.
Lynzi Williams

R & H Roofing, LLP
59 South St.
Henry E. Hopkins

RPM Worx
55 East St.
Ryan Mancini

EAST LONGMEADOW

Case Handyman Services
94 Shaker Road
William Richard Miller

Catherine @ Shapes A Salon
219 Shaker Road
Catherine M. Rasid

Credit Solutions Network
444 A North Main St.
Isaac O. Wilson

Daisy’s Dogs
60 Shaker Road
Daniel and Samantha Macer

Vital Signs
169 Shaker Road
Kevin M. Moriarty

GREENFIELD

V.O. Rell Xpress
332 Deerfield St.
Viorel Marin

Worldview Photography
14 Sanderson St.
Nancy Young

HADLEY

Huntington Photography
93 Huntington Road
David Michalak

Leading Edge Toners
226 Russell St.
Brian A. Zuckerman

HOLYOKE

B & B Real Estate
59 Cherry St.
John P. Brunelle

Dairy Market
160-162 Lyman St.
Irfan Kashif

Reyes Income Tax and Bookkeeping
18 1/2 Gilman St.
Enrique Reyes

Wells Computer Systems
2016 Northampton St.
Kevin L. Pettingill

LONGMEADOW

Molly Coddle Boutique
73 Falmouth Road
RoseAnn Caliento

Pack Solutions
794 Frank Smith Road
William J. Kline

LUDLOW

Excel Home Car Services
200 Center St.
Rebecca Paquette

NORTHAMPTON

Safeground Landcare
110 Williams St.
Bernadette Giblins

Shear Xtreme
4 Old South Road
Barbara Paolo

Treasures Film Inc.
27 Pleasant St.
Robert Lawton

Verge Design Jewelry
76 Pleasant St.
Angela Gerhard

Template X Design
121 Meadow St.
Albert N. Sanchez

Universal Remodeling
15 West Farms Road
Richard Czyzewski

PALMER

Lia Sophia Jewelry
9 Cabot St.
Sarah Jane Leneau

  

Nutritional Healing Center
3 Carter St.
Lionel Gingras

The Mane Attraction
1020 Central St.
Margaret K. Hiersche

The Tax Lady
25 Cyd Alan St.
Julie Ann Gromosky

SOUTH HADLEY

Jim’s Home Improvements
6 Lloyd St.
James Pouliot

Medical Device Intelligence Group
317 East St.
Kiersten Asbeck

Michael Bullough Electrician
311 East St.
Michael Bullough

The Stone Group
64 Hadley Village Road
Michael Stone

SOUTHWICK

Merk Technologies
610 College Highway
James L. Richardson

R.G. Lewis & Son
62 Powdermill Road
Raymond G. Lewis

SPRINGFIELD

Heavenly Cleaning
72 Princeton St.
Tamyka Washington

Jade’s Beauty
341 Wilbraham Road
Sophia C. Evans

Kubbie Korner
32 C Parker St.
LillyBelle M. Fox

La Bodega
178 Oakland St.
Elizabeth St.

Lilly-Good Luxury Imports
32 Hampden St.
Alan R. Goodman

Montero Auto Sales
1579 State St.
Carlos Montero

My Pets House
256 Greenaway Drive
Andrea Bailey

New Image Renovation
72 Elijah St.
Emmanuel Lewis

Pafumi’s State Inspection
354 Main St.
Joseph M. Pafumi Jr.

Rick’s Equipment
24 Sara Lynn Drive
Richard D. Parneteau Jr.

SavMore Citgo
1112 Bay St.
Mohammed Imtiaz

Sign Language Interpreter
67 Trafton Road
Kara L. Santaniello

Skyrlee Express
107 Cedar St.
Victor Amaro

St. James Auto School
262 St. James Boulevard
John Vigneri

St. James Custom Autobody
503 St. James Ave.
Maritza Del Rio

Superior Safety & Security
27 Bernard St.
Sufir Hashim

The Trailhead Trading Co.
82 Birchland Ave.
Christopher Baeur

Visuals Interior Re- Design
62 Maybrook Road
Elaine Loftus

Vitaliy’s Full Handy Maintenance Service
32 Manor Court
Vitaliy Tereshchenkou

Works Management
129 Miller St.
Raquel Rodriquez

WESTFIELD

Great Home Realty
103 Broadway
Erika Adoryan

Labrie & Associates Quality Consultants
47 Bigwood Dr.
Catherine & Richard Labrie

Landman Services
97 Papermill Road
Gary Drenzek

NAP Electric
160 Holyoke Road
Neil Peloquin

Writingwood
257 Falley Drive
Bernard Puza

WEST SPRINGFIELD

A Gift 4 Less
751 Memorial Ave.
Michael Pacheco

Asian Cuisine
1152 Riverdale St.
Zheng’s Garden, LLC

Attitudes
62 Westfield St.
Barbara Thompson

BMW of West Springfield
1497 Riverdale St.
Wagner Motors LLC

Kentucky Fried Chicken
931 Riverdale St.
Houston Enterprises Inc.

KMS Realty
73 Rogers Ave.
Donald C. Pinkerman

Pat’s Auto Service
163 Norman St.
Richard D. Parenteau

Preferred Auto
167 Norman St.
Richard Larivee

Red Light Lounge
125 Capital Drive
Capital Liquors, Inc.

Wicks and Wood
640 Elm St.
Lesley Maple

Word-of-Mouth Painting
322 Main St.
Andrew A. Forbes

By
Departments

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

CHICOPEE

The Friends of Elms College Inc., 291 Springfield St., Chicopee 01013. Bernadette Nowakowski, 38 Cedar Glenn, Belchertown 01007. (Nonprofit) To enhance the continuation of The College of Our Lady of the Elms by providing various giving opportunities, etc.

Sherrin Entertainment Inc., 240 Moore St., Chicopee 01013. Stephen Edward Sherrin, same. Production of entertainment media including films, TV, Web content, streaming media, etc.

CUMMINGTON

United States Collegiate Ski and Snowboard Association Inc., 320 Stage Road, Cummington 01026. Paul Wojick, 811 East 5th St., Northfield MN 55057. Laura Cecilia Sullivan, 320 Stage Road, Cummington 01026, secretary. (Nonprofit) To be the governing body for intercollegiate team racing competition in the discipline of alpine, cross-country and snowboard, etc.

GREENFIELD

Cold River Mining Inc., 246 Silver St., Greenfield 1301. Adam Marchacos, same. Wholesale sales.

HAYDENVILLE

Complex Systems Optimization Laboratory Inc., 20 High St., Haydenville 01039. Sclaudina Vargas, Ph.D., same. (Nonprofit) To develop a first class multidisciplinary research team willing to utilize their expertise to expand knowledge and advance the performance and quality of critical complex systems, etc.

HOLLAND

Cevans Inc., 31 Hisgen Road, Holland. Arthur D. Evans, Jr., same. Technical support of business computer systems.

HOLYOKE

J.D-Wal Inc., 615 Homestead Ave., Holyoke 01040. Gurninder Dhariwal, 20 Easthampton Road, Apt. #B4, Holyoke 01040. Family pizza restaurant and eatery.

LONGMEADOW

Park’s Repair World Inc., 51 Clairmont St., Longmeadow 01106. Woo Tae Park, 19 Winter Court, East Windsor, CT 06088. Amy Bricker, Esq., 51 Clairmont St., Longmeadow 01106. Shoe repair, key duplication, jewelry repair, and clothing alteration.

LUDLOW

Vallee Realty Inc., 199 Moody St., Ludlow 01056. David F. Vallee, 103 Carver St., Granby 01033. Real estate rental and management.

MONSON

HIAA Inc., 143 Butler Road, Monson 01057. Heather L. Emery, same. Order taking/reservations via internet.

MBNE Inc., 129 Fenton Road, Monson. Mona Labonte, same. Medical billing service.

NORTHAMPTON

Commonwealth Center for Change Inc., 12 Crafts Ave., #4, Northampton 01060. David Simpson, same. (Nonprofit) To build community and deepen the democracy skills of youths and adults.

  

Park-Well Inc., 518 Pleasant St., Unit #11, Northampton 01060. Richard T. Petricca, 73 Swamp Road, Richmond 01259. Concrete contracting services.

QOI Corp., 193 Prospect St., Northampton 01060. Matthew Ward Whitcomb, 1204 Roundhouse Lane, Alexandria, VA 22314.
Jeremy D. Whitcomb, 193 Prospect St., Northampton 01060, registered agent. Restaurant.

SHELBURNE

Judith Collins Inc., 139 Old Greenfield Road, Shelburne 01370. Judith Lynn Collins, same. Telemarketing.

SOUTHWICK

Green Passport Inc., 1 Partridge Lane, Southwick 01077. Crist Zantouliadis, same. Media management.

SPRINGFIELD

Law Offices of Bethzaida Sanabria-Vega, P.C., 1145 Main St., Ste. 403, Springfield 01103. Bethzaida Sanabria Vega, 340 Chapin Terrace, Springfield 01003. To provide legal services and advice.

Manna Chinese Restaurant Corp., 441 A Springfield St., Springfield 01107. Yun Xia Lin, same. Chinese restaurant.

MOR Services Inc., 293 Bridge St., Suite 307, Springfield. Henry Orszulak, 314 Circle Dr., West Springfield 01089. Commercial and residential construction, demolition and renovation, etc.

Sam’s Auto Center Inc., 153 Spear Road, Springfield 01119. Samuel J. Eady, same. Retail sales and service of motor vehicles.

Segundo Templo Pentecostal Mont Sinai, 278 Wilbraham Road, Springfield 01109. Nereida Garcia, same. (Nonprofit) To provide for the civic, social and educational welfare of people in need of supportive services, etc.

THREE RIVERS

Jeff Ferreira Construction Inc., 2 Norbell St., Three River 01080. Jeffrey D. Ferreira, same. Realty contracting, development, construction and management.

WESTFIELD

New England Poly-Recycling Inc., 825 North Road, Westfield 01085. Gary Cloutier, 28 Adams St., Chicopee 01022. To manage, reuse and recycle plastic waste disposal.

WILBRAHAM

Jake’s Drive-In Corp., 2535 Boston Road, Wilbraham 01095. Michael P. Erricolo, 119 Moore Ave., Warren 01083. Restaurant.

PhamLe Inc., 2036 Boston Road, Wilbraham 01095. Quan Pham, 13802 A Pacific Ave., Westminster CA 92683. Tracyna Le, 22 Camp St., Worcester 01603, secretary. To operate a restaurant.

By
Departments

Outlook 2007

Gov. Deval Patrick addresses an audience of more than 1,100 business and civic leaders at the Affiliated Chambers’ annual ‘Outlook’ luncheon on Feb. 9 at Chez Josef in Agawam. He told those assembled that his administration is developing a comprehensive economic development and social renewal plan for Springfield. “I am here to tell you that Springfield will not fail on my watch,” he said. Addressing the press after his talk, Patrick said he plans to keep the Finance Control Board that has been administering Springfield for the past 2 1/2 years in place for at least another year. The ‘Outlook’ event also featured talks from Springfield Mayor Charles Ryan and U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal.

Circle of Humanitarians Award

Senior Officer for Disaster Preparedness and Relief for the American Red Cross, Judith A. Gillespie, recently presented the Circle of Humanitarians Award to Stuart H. Reese, chairman, president, and chief executive officer of MassMutual. The Circle of Humanitarians Award is presented to only the most philanthropic corporations to acknowledge their outstanding support of the American Red Cross, nationally, regionally, and locally. MassMutual was recognized for its leadership in supporting the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts, as well as its support of the local Pioneer Valley Chapter during the recent, very busy fire season. From left are: Ronald A. Copes, vice president for Community Relations at MassMutual; Gillespie; Reese; Rick Lee, executive director of the American Red Cross Pioneer Valley Chapter; and Valerie Navy-Daniels, chief advancement office of the American Red Cross Massachusetts Bay Chapter.

MassMutual Donation

One hundred students at Springfield Technical Community College will be receiving free computers through a donation from MassMutual. The computers will be loaded with open source software by students at the college, and given free to other STCC students who are unable to purchase a computer on their own. Pictured in the MassMutual warehouse, among the pallets of donated computers are, left to right, STCC students Eric Reynolds, Lance Cargill, Rhea Scruggs, and Mark Musante; STCC President Ira Rubenzahl; MassMutual Vice President for Corporate Services John Wesolowski; and STCC instructor Stan Jamrog.

A Rallying Cry for Springfield

By
Opinion

It sounded like something Winston Churchill might have said of London at the height of the Blitz.

“Springfield will not fail on my watch,” Gov. Deval Patrick told an overflow crowd of more than 1,100 at the Affiliated Chambers’ annual ‘Outlook’ breakfast earlier this month. Such rhetoric might have been expected from a newly elected governor addressing an audience of business and civic leaders and knowing that he would soon be facing a horde of media wondering what he had in store for the City of Homes and the control board currently running it.

But it was good to hear, because despite all the talk of Springfield turning the corner, starting a rebound, or moving back up after hitting rock bottom (pick one), everyone knows there is still a lot of work that remains.

What we need to hear soon are some specifics about the governor’s intentions for Springfield — beyond the control board (which he says will stay in place for at least another year) and the back-up data center that everyone hopes will go in either the Technology Park at STCC or the former Technical High School. These are starting points in the discussion about how the state can be of more assistance in helping Springfield not just get back on its feet (we’re past the point of failing now, or should be) but be a catalyst for growth in the region.

This was another phrase (or words approximating it) that was thrown around at ‘Outlook’ by Patrick and others, including Springfield Mayor Charles Ryan. This is the ‘as Springfield goes, so goes the region’ argument, and while there is some easily accessible evidence to indicate that this is not entirely true, a healthier Springfield would do wonders for the region.

A quick look around would reveal that many area communities have actually done quite well while Springfield has suffered. Holyoke has crafted an intriguing turnaround; it’s very much a work in progress, but the city has added many new businesses and achieved significant progress in repairing a long-tarnished image. At the same time, Chicopee’s downtown is improving, Memorial Drive is exploding, and the Westover industrial parks continue to add jobs.

Meanwhile, Westfield has several large projects on the drawing board and, if it can ever get its stalled hotel/transit project off the ground, will see continued revitalization downtown. Northampton, Amherst, and most of the rest of Hampshire County is thriving, and communities to the east, such as Belchertown and Monson, are witnessing dramatic growth.

But while it might seem that the region’s other cities and towns can flourish even while Springfield teeters on the brink of financial collapse, those who know better will tell you otherwise. Indeed, ask any bank president in the region, and he or she will say (usually after announcing they’re opening four new branches in a 10-block area) that this is essentially a no-growth area — with too many banks.

To make it a growth area, Springfield needs to become a bigger jobs center, and it must become a place where people can not only work but also live. Everyone knows this, and those who wrote the Urban Land Institute study said as much. The question is, how do we get it done?

It starts with commitment from all parties, including the state. The Legislature has several other regions of the state to be concerned with — the South Coast area and Blackstone Valley are still struggling somewhat — but it could take steps to incentivize people to do business in Western Mass. And it could, as the Connecticut Legislature has done for Hartford, provide incentives for individuals to create more market rate housing projects downtown to attract more professionals to the city — and maybe convince many who have left for the suburbs to return.

The state can’t do the job by itself, however. There must be a commitment from area officials and financial institutions to help bring more businesses, more workers, and more commerce to the city.

Helping the city ‘not fail’ is the absolute minimum that the Patrick administration can do for Springfield. The goal — and the mission — is to make the city, and thus the region, thrive.

OPINION

By
Opinion
Why the Control Board Should Stay in Control

During a recent appearance at American International College, Lt. Gov. Tim Murphy stated that it’s time for the Finance Control Board that has been managing Springfield for the past 30 months to go. I believe that once he and Gov. Deval Patrick fully understand Springfield’s situation, they’ll come around to my way of thinking — which is that the control board’s work is not finished.

During the FCB’s first two and a half years, I have watched as the city has made steady progress, due in large measure to the board’s undivided efforts. Created by unanimous vote of our legislators, the control board was a thoughtful response to a very complex situation. Rather than impose a single receiver, as was the case in Chelsea in the 1980s, the Legislature created a body that would be reflective of the democratic process. Elected officials — the mayor and the rotating position of City Council president — represent two of the board’s five votes.

Beyond the financial difficulties Springfield experienced prior to the election of Mayor Charles Ryan and the arrival of the FCB, the city was quite literally starving for legitimate attention. Corruption placed a stranglehold on the way Springfield conducted its business.

As a result, very little of the city’s business got done — and not very well.

Thanks to the FCB’s hiring of some effective managers, Springfield’s $41 million budget deficit has been eliminated, and the city now operates with a balanced budget. More than 20 contracts have been negotiated. (It wasn’t that long ago that our police, firefighters, and teachers were working without contracts.) Our resource-deprived departments are now gaining ground on the adoption of 21st-century technology. (It wasn’t long ago that records were kept on index cards and filed in cardboard boxes.)

According to the Finance Control Board, more work needs to be done, particularly in the area of technology: a computerized financial-management system still needs to be implemented. The city should have a centralized payroll system. There is more work to integrate data so that various departments can come to the same conclusions on matters such as permitting and licensing. Zoning reform is still a work in progress.

These critical initiatives — too long neglected — require an effective, non-politicized body in place so that they can move forward in an expeditious manner.

During the receiver’s four-year tenure in Chelsea, citizens were given enough time to lay the groundwork for a new form of government. The charter-review process resulted in the hiring of a city manager. According to my research, two successive city managers have kept Chelsea’s finances in good order for the past 20 years.

I’m not suggesting we need to adopt Chelsea’s solution. Chelsea is a city a fifth the size of Springfield with a land mass about the size of Springfield’s South End. I am advocating for time equivalent to that given Chelsea so that we can conduct a charter review.

Springfield is a complex, $450 million enterprise that gears up for a management change every two years. Can you imagine a private enterprise preparing for a transition in the corner office every 12 months? We need time to review the best practices of other cities our size, facing our urban challenges. Certainly there are ways to combine professional business management with political leadership.

If the Patrick administration is concerned about Springfield, and I have to believe that it is, it needs to keep the Finance Control Board in Springfield for at least two more years. If it’s a simply a matter of semantics, label the next two or three years of the FCB’s tenure transitional. Place the onus on the citizens of Springfield to get their collective act together to lay the groundwork for life after the control board.

In the meantime, allow the FCB to finish what it was created to do.-

Nancy Urbschat is owner of TSM Design in Springfield; (413) 731-7600.

By
Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of January 2007.

AGAWAM

Jim Nilsson
830 Suffield St.
$1,200 – Replace entrance and exit door to grocery store

Victor Shibley
291 Springfield St.
$7,000 – General remodel of Subway including new floor and equipment

AMHERST

Amherst College Trustees
Converse Hall
$32,000 – Interior renovations to financial aid offices

Amherst Shopping Center Associates, LLC
165 University Drive – CVS
$15,000 – New roof

CHICOPEE

Boys & Girls Club of Chicopee
580 Meadow St.
$1,565,000 – Addition of gym, bathrooms, and lockers

EASTHAMPTON

Big E’s Supermarket
6 High St.
$3,000 – New roof

GREENFIELD

Franklin County Community Development Corp.
324 Wells St.
$40,000 – Foundation support for food cooler and new ramp access

HADLEY

FDF Realty LLP
229-301 Russell St.
$30,000 – Replace existing metal roof on Taylor Rental

HOLYOKE

Carl’s Pizza Inc.
548 South St.
$58,000 – Interior renovations

Creative Restorations
750 Main St.
$5,500 – Install two partition walls

Mark R. Larose
81 North Bridge St.
$3,700 – Addition of storage space

Peoples Savings Bank
596 South St.
$38,000 – New roof

US Tsubaki Inc.
821 Main St.
$17,500 – Construct exterior vestibule at entry door

Universal Plastics
75 Whiting Farms Road
$220,000 – New roof on front office

LUDLOW

Danny Serra
459 East St.
$130,000 – New construction of a bagel shop

  

NORTHAMPTON

David Ostrander
36 Service Center Road
$97,000 – Install non-bearing partitions, handicap bathroom, and new HVAC

PALMER

American Tower Corporation
10 President Way
$28,000 – Renovation and repair to cell tower

SOUTHWICK

SRZ, LLC
587 College Highway
$138,000 – Construction of 980-square-foot addition

SPRINGFIELD

Arwen Realty
906 Boston Road
$35,000 – Interior build-out of mercantile building

Big Y Trust
1070 St. James St.
$30,000 – Divide single tenant space into two spaces

Carpenters Union Local 108
29 Oakland St.
$27,000 – New roof

City of Springfield – Brookings Elementary School
233 Allen St.
$12,000 – Repair existing fire escapes

City of Springfield – Forest Park Middle School
233 Allen St.
$15,000 – Repair existing fire escapes

City of Springfield – Homer Street School
233 Allen St.
$8,000 – Repair existing fire escapes

City of Springfield – Mary Walsh School
233 Allen St.
$8,000 – Replace existing fire escapes

GELW Mass
1341 Main St.
$39,000 – New roof

Villa Nueva Vista Associates
3029 Main St.
$31,500 – New roof

WEST SPRINGFIELD

80 Congress St. LLC
900 Memorial Ave.
$440,000 – Addition to existing office building

Robert Kushner
203 Circuit Ave.
$8,000 – Covert industrial space into commercial storage

WESTFIELD

Airflyte Inc.
32 Airport Dr.
$1,250,000 – Construct aircraft hanger and maintenance facility

By
Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2007.

AGAWAM

Agawam Pizza & More
421 Springfield St.
Zahra Mortazi

Bobbie J’z
1668 Main St.
Mary-Jane Jensen

Bobskill Paver Stone Co.
17 McKinley St.
William Bobskill

City Fashion
299 Springfield St.
Tommy Mgauyen

Extra Innings of Agawam
45 Tennis Road
Mark L. Tengren

AMHERST

A.D. Cleaning Service
147 Bay Road
Amaro Ferreira

Carrie at Salon Divine
15 Pray St.
Caryl Whiteman

Coinshow.Com
409 South Main St.
Jonathon C. Roche

CHICOPEE

Auto-Pro’s Vehicle Service
35 Gladd Avenue
Robert J. Brault

Chase Automotive Trim & Glass
1422 Granby Road
John H. Chase

Daigle’s Truck Master Inc.
57 Fuller Road
Jeffrey Charles Daigle

Happy Days Breeding and Training
30 Shea Dr.
Elizabeth Ann Leclerc

Intensity Motor Sports
970 Burnett Road
Joseph T. Goulet

Mario’s Auto Service
63 Center St.
Mario J. Domingos

Moran’s Garage USA Inc.
536 East St.
James M. Garvey

Rosy’s Nails
25 Burnett Road
Tina Nguyen

Timberline Properties
83 Thaddeus St.
Robert Kachinski

Vitaliy’s Autobody and Repair
108 Meadow St.
Dmitriy Salagornik

EASTHAMPTON

ABC Construction & Roofing Service
150 Pleasant St.
Bruce Bliven

Eliza Consulting
35 Fort Hill Road
Eliza Lake

Kaleidoscope Institute
116 Pleasant St.
Jennifer Winick

EAST LONGMEADOW

Caldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Real Estate School
55 North Main St.
NRT New England Inc.

Clark’s Landscaping
20 Alandale Dr.
Andrew Clark

Daniel P. Dirico Pro-Shop
176 Millbrook Dr.
Daniel P. Dirico

Family Bike & Sports
217 Shaker Road
Raymond D. Plouffe

NAPA Auto Parts
167 Shaker Road
Stephanie Nelson

GREENFIELD

Harmon Personnel Services
326 Deerfield St.
Community Action Enterprises Inc.

Sonam’s Stonewalls
310 Chapman St.
Sonam Lama

HADLEY

Culinary Partners
84 Russell St.
Valley Computer Works Inc.

HOLYOKE

Dairy Market
1552 Dwight St.
Irfan Kashif

Finding Time
583 Pleasant St.
Marie M. Sheedy

Green Room Salon
159 St. Jerome Ave.
Jennifer Sicotte

SoHo Holyoke
50 Holyoke St.
Hae Yeon Cho

Special Effects Entertainment
179 Pearl St.
Jose Lebron

LONGMEADOW

Alex’s Bagel Shop
786 Williams St.
Aleksandr Belyshev

Creative Edge Salon
7 Edgewood Ave.
Ingrid Margaret Kuselias

LUDLOW

Joseph Testori Electrical Contractor
21 New Crest St.
Joseph J. Testori

NORTHAMPTON

A2Z Pest Control and Problem Wildlife
296 Spring St.
Steven J. Rosetti

Cracked Film Productions
12B Randolph Place
Jared M. Sena

Gear Noho
9 Trumbull Road
Ann S.Colbourn

Hayfield’s Café
48 Main St.
The Certo Group, LLC

Mark Lantz Group
74 Lyman Road
Mark M. Lantz

Small Beer Press
176 Prospect Ave.
Gavin J. Grant

  

PALMER

Autumn Portraits
51 Vicardau Ave.
Autumn Delaney

Akcess Biometrics
21 Wilbraham St.
Katrina Champagne

Innovative Web Design
1528 North Main St.
Anthony L. Casperini

SOUTH HADLEY

Beautiful Beginnings Event
92 Riverboat Village Road
Christina Stevenson

Blackbird Design
80 Granby Road
Richard Watanabe

DMS Financial Services
50 Prospect St.
Scott M. Duguay

Dwight Prosthetics
128 North Main St.
Eugene J. Sigda

Ichaban
2090 Memorial Dr.
Huang Family Restaurants, LLC

SOUTHWICK

Colonial Windows and Siding
229 Hillside Road
Lisa & Ronald Vandervliet

SPRINGFIELD

Absolute Voice & Data
33 Dana St.
Darren Evangelista

Allied Waste Transfer of Springfield
44 Rose St.
F.P. McNamara Rubbish Removal

Anderson’s Cleaning Company
174 Spear Road
Theresa Anderson

Blueprint Investments
One Monarch Place
Blueprint LLC

B & A Home Improvements
23 Decker Place
Germain Almeida

Carolina’s Montehatillo Variety Gift Shop
2595 Main St.
Carmen V. Fernandez

Cottage St. Motors
807 Cottage St.
Vincenzo Botta

DC Gift & Variety Store
19 Dearborn St.
Diana C. Pusey

Deb’s Place
812 Cottage St.
Deborah Pafumi

DeMars
71 Pear St.
Kenneth DeMars

Dreams by Dana
17 Parkside St.
Dana Hines

Ebony Hill Web Design
111 Florida St.
Derrick & Lillian Hill

Eva’s Beauty Salon
9 Dorset St.
Eva Polanco

Fantastico Wraps & Salads
1500 Main St.
Nazario & Maria Settembre

1st Call Real Estate
770 Plumtree Road
Kenny Nguyen

First Fruits Children’s Center for Learning & Development
54 Marlbough St.
Tiffany McCarr

Fortuna Auto Sales
1650 Bay St.
Jose Taveras

Global Link Translations & Interpreting Service
One Federal Building
Glolin, LLC

The Good Shepard
10 Merrick Ave.
Francis Addai

WESTFIELD

A.J. Stables
1040 East Mountain Road
Tammy Zabik

All Pro Lawn Care
28 Woodbridge Lane
Michael Goodreau

Extreme Consulting
9 Colony Crest
Paul P. Tobias

Reflections Hair & Nail
2 Russell Road
Gloria P. Dandeneau

Serene Photography
51 Court St.
Joan Karanas

T & N Tree Service
77 Mill St.
Anthony Fastiggi

WEST SPRINGFIELD

A Chipaway Windshield Repair
480 Bear Hole Road
William L. Matte

Antonio’s Ringside Incorporated
125 Capital Drive
Gregory A. Vatrano

Canta Napoli Pizza and Restaurant
261 Union St.
Silvestro Vivenzio

Case Handyman and Remodeling
380 Union St.
New England Handyman Services

Charlie’s Diner
218 Union St.
Michael Alfano

Friendly Car Wash
668 Westfield St.
Quicky’s Car Wash, LLC

Melon-Collie Entertainment
445 Cold Spring Avenue
Robert Lewis Pepek, Jr.

Mike’s Auto Service & Repair
173 River St.
Michael Zabik

Riverdale Storage Center Inc.
143 Doty Circle
Jan A. Chrzan

Total Women’s Health Care Inc.
46 Daggett Drive
Aleli L. Villanueva, M.D.

By
Departments

Joel Morse has joined Marcus Printing in Holyoke as Sales and Marketing Manager. He will be in charge of all sales and marketing functions for the third-generation commercial printing company.

•••••

 


Carole Parlengas

United Personnel Services Inc. in Springfield has promoted Carole Parlengas to Vice President/Chief Financial Officer. She joined the firm last year as the Chief Financial Officer.

 

•••••

The Western Mass. Pharmacists Assoc. announced the following officers and directors for 2007:
Officers are:
• H. John Mailhot, President;
• Eugene Cantor, Vice President;
• Robert Castelli, Recording Secretary;
• Norman Halperin, Treasurer;
• George J. Couchiaftis, Corresponding/Financial Secretary, and
• Stanley Derezinski, Sergeant-at-Arms.
Directors are: John Canninc, Robert Dobeck, Richard Garvin, Daniel Hayes, Christine Masciardelli, Clark Matthews, and Andrea Reid.

•••••

Walter E. Drenen of Drenen Financial Services Inc. in Southwick has been accepted into the National Assoc. of Enrolled Agents.

•••••

Amy Pinney has joined Carlson GMAC Real Estate’s Westfield office as a Sales Agent.

•••••

Sarah Kelley has joined the Northampton office of Countrywide Home Loans Inc. as a Home Loan Consultant.

•••••

Ilkwan Kim has joined Keller Williams Realty and will work at its Longmeadow Market Center office.

•••••

James Goodwin has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of the Center for Human Development Inc. Goodwin joined the organization in 1980 and most recently served as interim president.

•••••

Ida Tassinari has joined Park Square Realty in Westfield and will work out of its Feeding Hills office as a Sales Associate.

•••••

Michael M. Lefebvre has been promoted to Senior Vice President in the Commercial Lending Division at TD Banknorth Massachusetts in Springfield.

•••••

 

  

Tonya Plante has become a Sales Associate in the Agawam office of Carlson GMAC Real Estate.

•••••

Amy S. Leitl has joined Phillips Insurance Agency Inc. as head of the Life & Benefits Division.

•••••

The region’s largest local union of U.S. Postal Service Letter Carriers has elected officers for a three-year term as follows:
• Tina M. Richard, President;
• Michael Harazmus, Vice President;
• Richard Micelotta, Upper Valley Vice President;
• David Lamontagne, Secretary;
• Patricia Rogers, Treasurer;
• Chris Burrage, Health Benefits/MBA Representative;
• Laura Parenteau, Trustee;
• James Graham, Trustee;
• Bonita Berselli, Trustee, and
• William Gelinas, Sergeant-at-Arms.
Twenty-five stewards were also chosen in the recent election.

•••••

Tom Martucci has been appointed Vice President for the Momentum Group. He will provide business development, marketing and product development programs.

•••••

Marie Phillips has been named Human Resources Director at the Elms College, Chicopee.

•••••

Hampden Bank has announced that Glenn S. Welch has been named Executive Vice President. In this new position, Welch will oversee all of the organization’s lending and retail functions.

•••••

Human Resources Unlimited has appointed Debra Marvell as Program Director.

•••••

Vicky Applebee has joined Mass Match as its Director of Marketing and Sales. She is trained as a certified matchmaker from the Matchmaking Institute and is a member of the National Board of Certified Matchmakers.

•••••

Victoria A. White has announced that her Northampton-based Internet services business, eclecTechs, will be managed by David Flaherty, owner of Springfield-based Ashton Services. eclecTechs will retain its name, staff, services and product line.

•••••

Brenda Cuoco of the Wilbraham Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage has achieved the International Sterling Society Award for 2006. Cuoco earned more than $6 million in sales with 30 homes sold. She has also placed 52 out of 1,845 realtors in the Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley.

By
Departments

History Lesson

Springfield Technical Community College, in collaboration with the National Park Service, staged a regional symposium on Shays’s Rebellion, on Jan. 27-28, the 220th anniversary of the attack on the Arsenal at Springfield. Now the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, the land is occupied by STCC and the National Park Service’s Armory museum. The Rebellion was a leading factor in the adoption of the United States Constitution. From left, are symposium organizers and speakers: John Gately, chair of the STCC English department; Arlene Rodriguez, dean of the STCC School of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences; Robert A. Gross, University of Connecticut, keynote speaker, author of In Debt to Shays; Richard Colton, historian with the Springfield Armory National Historic Site; and Dr. Lynne Spichiger, project manager of the STCC Web-based program, ‘Shays’s Rebellion and the Making of a Nation.’

Givers Gain

Who are these people and what are they doing? Here’s a clue: look closely at their shirt fronts and read “Givers Gain.”  Giving what? Weather reports? Movie reviews? Stock tips? This diverse assortment of professionals are the members of a chapter of BNI, Business Network International at a recent meeting in Amherst. To find BNI meetings near, visit amherstbni.com, with links to BNI Western Mass, and BNI International

By
Departments

‘Who’s Driving the Bus?’

Feb. 21: The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will host this workshop geared toward anyone looking to bring an energetic attitude into the environment of a start-up or an existing business. The class is planned from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. The cost is $35. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

LEAD Program

March 2, 9, 16, 23, 30: Western New England College in Springfield and the Employers Association of the Northeast are accepting registrations for its Leadership Enhancement and Development (LEAD) certificate program. The intensive, five-day program is designed for businesspeople looking to move up within their organization. Topics include leadership, communication, managing change, preparing financial statements and budgets, human resource management, and strategic planning. Classes are planned on five consecutive Fridays in March from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. For more information, call WNEC at (413) 782-1473, or online at www.wnec.edu/gsce/ps.

Research Tools Seminar

March 7: The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will host this free workshop that will introduce entrepreneurs and small business owners to the print and electronic resources available at their local library. Participants will learn to search selected databases and publications, create search strategies, and locate information to start or grow a business. The class is planned from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. at the Springfield City Library, 220 State St., Springfield. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

The Toyota Way

March 8: The UMass Family Business Center (FBC) will present a dinner forum based on the 14 principles of Toyota known as the “Toyota Way” from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at Chez Josef in Agawam. Twelve FBC members will describe Toyota’s business practices of manufacturing high-quality products and services. Presenters include: Michael Francouer, Joining Technologies; Jeff Glaze, Decorated Products; Larry Grenier, The Greniers Family of Photographers; Cindy Johnson, Fran Johnson’s Golf and Racquet Headquarters; Scott MacKenzie, MacKenzie Vaults; Jason Mark, Gravity Switch; Curio Nataloni, Kitchens by Curio; Jim Sagalyn, Holyoke Machine; Michael Schaefer, October Company; Joanne Goding, Moss Nutrition; David Rothenberg, Bottaro Skolnick Interiors, and Bill Dempsey, HL Dempsey Co. For more information or reservations, visit www.umass.edu/fambiz, or call Ira Bryck, FBC’s Continuing & Professional Education, at (413) 545-1537.

Customer Loyalty Best Practices

March 14: Do you know what your customers are saying about you? The Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will sponsor this workshop that features interesting feedback from area visitors presented by the Berkshire Visitors Bureau. In addition, a discussion of best practices for developing customer loyalty is planned. The class will be conducted from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Berkshire Chamber of Commerce, 75 North St., Suite 360, Pittsfield. The cost is $30. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

Guerrilla Marketing

March 28: Inspired by a Guerrilla Marketing philosophy, this workshop led by the Mass. Small Business Development Center Network will distill an MBA curriculum’s worth of marketing planning fundamentals to seven essential sentences. Also, learn the four key principles upon which all success rests. The session is planned from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Scibelli Enterprise Center, 1 Federal St., Springfield. The cost is $30. For more information, call (413) 737-6712.

Academic Conference

March 30: The second annual Academic Conference titled ‘Current Issues in Community Economic Development’ is planned from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Western New England College in Springfield. The conference, hosted by the Law and Business Center for Advancing Entrepreneurship, will feature legal and business scholars, industry representatives, and policy makers exploring issues relating to entrepreneurship and community development. Panel topics will include ‘Set-Asides and Affirmative Action,’ ‘Public-Private Partnerships,’ ‘Urban Entrepreneurship,’ and ‘Fringe Bankers.’ Andrea Silbert, co-founder and former CEO of the Center for Women & Enterprise, will be the keynote speaker during the luncheon. For more information, call (413) 736-8462 or E-mail to [email protected].

What Does It Take to Lead a College?

By
Opinion

There’s an interesting presidential search going on at Westfield State College.

A search panel has narrowed a long list of candidates down to five semifinalists — a rather unassuming list except that it includes the current mayor of that city, Richard Sullivan, who has served in that capacity for 14 years now.

His inclusion on the finalists list has sparked some debate in the region about whether Sullivan, or anyone who has ‘mayor’ at the top line of his or her resume, should be considered a candidate to lead a state college. Some would argue no, and one faculty member at the college who attended a meet-the-candidate (Sullivan) session recently suggested that he was “a fish out of water.”

We would disagree, and while we won’t go so far as to endorse Sullivan’s candidacy (we really don’t know enough about the other hopefuls to do so), we will suggest that his bid not be dismissed as merely an attempt by a connected politician to take a plum state job and, in the process, nearly double his current salary and pension. There is simply too much evidence to the contrary in this region to suggest that those from what would be considered outside the realm of academia are not qualified to run academic institutions.

Let’s start with the area’s two community colleges. Holyoke’s was ably led for nearly three decades by David Bartley, longtime state representative and former speaker of the House. He used those connections to help build the college from a physical standpoint — several new buildings were added during his tenure — and also build its reputation as an excellent institution from which to transfer to a four-year college.

At Springfield Technical Community College, Andrew Scibelli, who had some academic background, including stints as registrar and assistant to the president at the college, but was known mostly as a Springfield city councilor and before that a School Committee member, has succeded in putting that institution on the national and even international stage.

Much of the acclaim has come from the decade-old Technology Park, a quasi-public institution located in former Springfield Armory space later occupied by Digital. When DEC closed its doors, Scibelli worked with local and state leaders, many of whom were skeptical about the project, to secure the needed funding for a facility that has become a model for schools across this country and many others.

Still another example of a non-academic achieving success in the public school realm is former state Senate President William Bulger, who ascended to president of UMass. He was controversial, and his recent, successful fight to enlarge his pension by including a housing allowance could have expensive consequences for the Commonwealth. But during his tenure, Bulger brought much-needed funding to the university, as well as greater visibility and recognition as a vital economic engine for the state.

The moral to these stories? It’s simple. While an academic background can certainly help someone sitting in the president’s office, the record clearly shows that those from business and public service can take an institution forward.

Can a mayor handle such a job? Of course. Without oversimplifying things, a mayor handles budgets, departments, and people. It’s the same for a college president. (A school’s faculty can be a very difficult constituency to handle, but that task usually isn’t any easier for those from academia). A mayor also sets a tone for a community and creates, for lack of a better term, a strategic plan. That’s the same job description a college president would have. The mayor is the CEO of a city; likewise for a college president.

Westfield State College has some work to do. It plays a role in Westfield, but certainly not as big a role as it could. Many would suggest that it is a largely untapped resource. Meanwhile, it must work much harder to tell its story in this market and well beyond it.

Is Sullivan the best person do to all this? Perhaps. At the very least he should be given strong consideration. Failure to do so would be a mistake for the search panel and the college.

By
Departments

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

Alexander, Gloria D.
758 St. James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/04/07

Bachant, James E.
Bachant, Lisa M.
PO Box 814
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/09/07

Barber, Merle R.
39 Lake Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/07/07

Boren, Jeffrey E.
Boren, Nicole S., a/k/a Phelan, Nicole S.
802 Newbury St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/15/07

Brown, Wickley
18 Lorraine St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/07/07

Bentley, Elisabeth A.
92 Summer St.
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/03/07

Carrington, Deborah
47 Mobile Home Way
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/07

Chartier, Robert E.
25 Blanding St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Cohen, Sharon L.
a/k/a Wise, Ola L., Borland
19 Hermon Ave.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/08/07

Couch, Paul J.
Couch, Susan E.
78 Independence Road
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/11/07

Courchesne, Marc A.
Courchesne, Kristen M.
18 Grove St., Apt. B
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Crivelli, Francesco N.
895 South Branch Parkway
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/08/07

Curtis, Gary William
802 Alden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/03/07

Daniels, Claire
23 Depot St.
Bondsville, MA 01009
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/11/07

DeAngelis, Michael
DeAngelis Amy
1016 Maple St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/04/07

Edgerton, Jerome T.
Edgerton, Shirley A.
51 Worthington St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/05/07

Granger, Michael F.
25 Roanake St.
West Springfield, MA 01089-3711
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/08/07

Haywood, Chad M.
103-105 Westford Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Hohol, Michael E.
19 Randall St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/07/07

Larsen, Kenneth R.
22 Wickman Dr.
Gardner, MA 01440
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/03/07

Lively, Alan T.
66 Kenwood St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/07

Matos, Pedro H.
18 Sycamore St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/12/07

  

May, Cecelia M.
30 Beebe Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/08/07

Morgan, Gordon Samuel
86 Lakevilla Ave.
Spingfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/15/07

O’Connor, Susan Marie
5 Crosby St.
Gt. Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/11/07

O’Connor, John P.
99 Powder Mill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/07/07

Perron, Albert P.
33 Bradford Dr., Apt. 4
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/04/07

Quality Staffing, Inc.
One Court Plaza
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 11
Filing Date: 01/10/07

Rajab, John Hashem
42 Wayne St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/07

Reyes, Dorcas
22 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/09/07

Rosa, Luis F.
Rosa, Arlyn
Torres, Arlyn
211 Laurelton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/05/07

Scott, Jeffrey L.
540 Scott Road
Oakham, MA 01068
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Silverman, Jeannine M.
a/k/a Flaherty, Jeannnine M.
178 Brittany Road
Indian Orchards, MA 01151
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/07

Stafford, John L.
127 Austin St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/08/07

Steffenhagen, Lynn A.
36 Rivers Ave., Apt. 4
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/08/07

Tarr, Robert William
66 Brookside Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/05/07

Tichy, George E.
Tichy, Margaret M.
9 Fenton Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Tippett, Paul J.
37 Frederick St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/07

Velozo, Dorothy J.
25 Blanding St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Williams, Tina
185 Rosemary Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/09/07

Willridge, Paul Anthony
22 Vassar St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/11/07

Wood, David G.
7 Acton St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/10/07

Yates, James D.
Yates, Barbara D.
71 Berkshire St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/12/07

Zaldivar, Richard E.
19 Walnut St., Apt. A
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/08/07

OPINION

By
Opinion
A State of Fiscal Confusion

Governor Romney claimed Mass-achusetts is headed for a billion-dollar surplus and can afford a tax cut without sacrificing services, then made emergency spending cuts because the state is contending with an unbalanced budget.

Governor Patrick restored Romney’s spending cuts, then warned that the state is facing a billion-dollar deficit in this year’s budget.

Is it any wonder that the public is confused about the true condition of the state’s fiscal affairs?

The saga began more than a year ago when Romney started holding monthly press conferences to announce state tax revenues. He claimed they were rising at a rate that would produce a billion-dollar surplus in fiscal 2006 and called for an immediate income tax cut. During the gubernatorial campaign, Lieutenant Gov. Kerry Healey and Attorney General Thomas Reilly joined the billion-dollar surplus bandwagon, using the claim to justify their support of a lower income tax rate.

Unfortunately, Romney’s assertions had no basis in fact. Although tax revenues in 2006 did rise by a billion more than estimated, the budget depended on $600 million in reserves, so the actual surplus was much smaller.

For fiscal year 2007, which started on July 1, the Legislature once again ill-advisedly balanced the budget with reserves, betting that revenues would exceed the forecast and not actually require their use. In the meantime, however, growth in tax revenues was slowing markedly — from an increase of more than 8% in fiscal 2006 to an estimated 4% in FY ’07.

In October, Romney suddenly announced more than $400 million in emergency spending cuts, citing slowing revenue growth and the budget’s dependence on reserves. The amount of reserves in question — about $250 million at this stage — is too small to warrant ‘emergency’ action with six months remaining in the fiscal year. While Patrick’s decision to restore the cuts leaves the state with a tight 2007 budget, there is still a reasonable likelihood of ending the fiscal year on June 30 without drawing on reserves.

The back and forth on FY ’07 has created an unnecessary and confusing distraction from the real problem, namely how to produce a balanced budget for FY ’08.

Patrick’s estimate of a billion-dollar shortfall is based on calculating the cost of maintaining current state programs next year, plus funding new obligations like post-retirement medical care, while assuming that the growth in tax revenues will continue to slow.

Although the precise shortfall is hard to project, this bleak fiscal picture is consistent with the numbers presented by Romney’s fiscal experts in briefing Patrick’s Budget and Finance transition working group, which I chaired.

In September, the Taxpayers Foundation released a detailed analysis of state finances for the next five years. Even with optimistic revenue assumptions, the study concluded that the state will fall billions of dollars short in meeting priorities like healthcare, local aid, higher education, and capital investments.

The Patrick administration faces a huge challenge in managing sky-high expectations with limited resources, a task made more difficult by the overblown rhetoric and confusion surrounding state finances.

Michael J. Widmer is president of the Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation.

Casinos May be Worth the Gamble

By
Opinion

The juxtaposition of the comments wasn’t the best.

Gov. Deval Patrick was addressing the Mass. Municipal Assoc. and discussing the state’s fiscal health and ways to improve it, when he offered that he would keep an open mind on legalized slot machines and casinos, and that they may eventually help the state keep its budget in the black, or at least out of the red — a stern challenge given projections for a billion-dollar shortfall to result from slowing tax revenues.

We’ve never preferred to view casino gambling as a budget-balancing option. Instead, we’ve looked at it as a form of economic development, one that has the potential to raise the profile of a city or region, bringing new jobs and the potential for tourism dollars and hospitality-related businesses. And we’ve long taken the view that casinos either make sense or they don’t, and that their practicality for the Commonwealth shouldn’t be a function of the state’s fiscal well-being.

But the reality of the situation is that casinos and slot machines at race tracks have always been viewed as a vehicle for revenue for the state’s cities and towns, many of which, especially older urban areas like Springfield and Holyoke, are struggling and looking to the state for some form of help. The phrase Patrick used when referring to legalized gambling was “money left on the table,” and by that, he was referring to the tens, if not hundreds, of millions of dollars that stream out of the Bay State each year and into Connecticut, New York, and other states that permit casino gambling.

His point is well taken, and we hope that Patrick and the Legislature give casino gambling another hard, thoughtful look.

Why? Because while it’s easy to say that there are better ways to raise revenue and create jobs, it’s harder to back up those statements. Tax hikes are always possible, but they are never popular, and few on Beacon Hill have the stomach for them. Nor do they have a fondness for cuts to existing programs.

Meanwhile, no one really knows from where the next load of jobs will come. As economists told BusinessWest recently, there are real doubts here and elsewhere about whether bioscience, biotechnology manufacturing, alternative energy ventures, or other sectors will ever become large or steady sources of employment, and traditional manufacturing jobs continue to decline as companies leave for states with a lower cost of doing business.

These realities may be enough to prompt Patrick, who opposed legalizing slot machines during last year’s campaign, to at least initiate some new dialogue on the subject.

While casinos are not the answer for every community or region — we are skeptical about placing them in large urban centers like Springfield, for example — there are scenarios in which they could work. Locally, the Quaboag area is a good example. This is a region that has lost a number of manufacturing jobs in recent years and is obviously struggling to replace them, with tourism and service-sector positions being the best hopes at the moment.

Meanwhile, although progress has been made in a broad effort to give the region an identity and to lure tourists from Boston and other areas, many people still consider Quaboag to be at least one turnpike exit too far. A casino at or near the Palmer interchange would certainly change that equation, and quickly.

Franklin County, Mount Tom in Holyoke, and perhaps some areas of Berkshire County are other places where a casino could, if it was done right, complement existing attractions and businesses and bring progress in the form of jobs and commerce to the area.

There are social costs that go along with casinos — gambling impacts all groups, but especially poorer constituencies, and many become addicted. These costs, many of which are already being felt with casinos only an hour or two away in other states, must be weighed, along with the potential benefits.

Patrick says he’s willing to keep an open mind. We hope the state’s Legislature can do the same.

By
Departments

Free Business Counseling

Jan. 25: The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Mass. Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) to bring free business counseling to the city. Starting at 10 a.m., Allen Kronick Sr., management counselor with the MSBDC, will be available at the Chamber office on Court Street to counsel individuals thinking of opening a business or current business owners who are seeking management consulting on a variety of issues. All services are confidential and free. MSBDC network services include packaging, financial projections, and cash flow management. For more information, contact Lynn Boscher, executive director, Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, at (413) 568-1618.

Philanthropy Breakfast Series

Jan. 26: “The Changing Face of Philanthropy: What Does It Mean for Your Nonprofit?” is the focus of the first session of a “Hot Topics in Philanthropy” breakfast program series at Bay Path College in Longmeadow, hosted by the Graduate School. The free program will take place from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in Blake Student Commons, with a continental breakfast beginning at 7:30. The program will provide an overview of the most important trends taking place in philanthropy today, the implications of these trends for nonprofit professionals, and what these trends might mean for fundraising and alternative sources of revenue, recruiting and managing volunteers and board members, and connecting with various constituencies. Registration is requested and may be made by calling (413) 565-1332 or sending an E-mail to [email protected].

History Symposium at STCC

Jan. 27-28: Teachers, local history buffs, scholars, and students from across the Northeast are invited to attend a history symposium at Springfield Technical Community College that will focus on Daniel Shays’ Rebellion. The insurrection in 1787 was a significant factor leading to the adoption of the U.S. Constitution. The symposium, marking the 220th anniversary of Shays’ Rebellion, will be conducted at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. The free symposium is open to the public and is a collaboration between STCC and the Armory. Registration is required, and forms are available through Professor John F. Gately, chair of the Department of English at STCC. For more information on the two-day event, E-mail [email protected], or call Arlene Rodriguez at (413) 755-4232 or send an E-mail to [email protected].

Outlook 2007

Feb. 9: Gov. Deval Patrick will make his first major address in Western Mass. as the keynote speaker at The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield’s annual Outlook 2007 luncheon at 11:45 a.m. at Chez Josef in Agawam. The Outlook program, made possible through the sponsorship of presenting sponsor Health New England, platinum sponsors Berkshire Bank, the Eastern States Exposition, MassMutual Financial Group, United Personnel Services Inc., Western Massachusetts Electric Company, 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. Patrick is expected to give a detailed analysis of his view of the state’s current condition as he puts the finishing touches on his first budget for the Commonwealth, which will be presented to the legislature later in February. Reservations must be made in writing and advance. The cost is $45 per ticket for Chamber members and $65 for non-members. Tables of 10 and 12 are available. Deadline for reservations is Feb. 2, but guests are urged to register early. (Outlook 2006 was sold out with more than 1,000 people in attendance.); visit www.myonlinechamber.com, or E-mail at [email protected].

By
Departments

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

Alvarez, Eddy
75 Commonwealth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/22/06

Anderson, Mark E.
276 East Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/18/06

Anderson, Robert David
Anderson, Deanne Jacqueline
1 Belden Court Apt. K4
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/19/06

Aponte, Aida
Aponte, Jose A.
28 Dalton Place
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/27/06

Appleby, Marianne
8 Park St.
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/27/06

Bess, Sharon J.
162 1/2 Main St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/28/06

Bigby, Eleanor
69 Princeton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

Bogdan, Jessica S.
105 White St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Burgess, Edward T.
Burgess, Peggy A.
99 Ducharme Ave., Apt. 3
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

Chin, Lissette
539 Springfield St.
Chicopee, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Dawson, Timmy Edward
DAWSON ENTERPRISES
106 Church St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/28/06

Fahey, Joseph P.
83 Wilton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Fontaine, Jill Ellen
211 Glenoak Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/19/06

Galeziowski, Linda L.
26 Eastern Ave.
South Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

Gasque, Veronica
131 Yale St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/28/06

Grifoni, William J.
253 South St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/26/06

Howie, Clifford H.
Howie, Brenda M.
194 Rolf Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/27/06

Kiforishin, Stepan N.
Kiforishina, Nadezhda S.
7 William St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/20/06

Kratt, David William
180 Elm St.
Greenfield, MA 01301-4313
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/22/06

  

Latvis, Victor G.
25 Spring St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/22/06

Lee, John H.
Lee, Soonduck
Lee, Hyouongtae
Lee, Hyoung T.
Green Cleaners
29 Amherst St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

McCarthy, James W.
McCarthy, Donna A.
33 Henry St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Murphy, Brenda
226 Eagle St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/27/06

Nielsen, Carol A.
735 Memorial Dr., Lot 3
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

Noska, Ronald T.
Noska, Sara C.
9C Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Ortiz, Loyda
34 Temby St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/20/06

Phillips, Brian K.
62 West Alvord St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Prokopowich, Edward R.
57 Kendall St.
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

Radtke, Mark Edward
121 Sterling St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/27/06

Sanchez, Florentino
PO Box 81232
Springfield, MA 01138
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Santos, Marilyn I.
115 Tokeneke Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/21/06

Sieron, Joseph E.
18 Gould St.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/06

Smethurst, Thenderia N.
5 Waltham Rd #6
Stow, MA 01775
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/28/06

Swain, Robert Donald
Swain, April May
6 Highland St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/02/07

Talbot, Edward J.
Talbot, Jean M.
132 Mayfair Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/28/06

Torres, Yvette
107 Vadnais St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/16/06

Youngblood, Yukiha
128 Old Pleasant St.
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/28/06

By
Departments

Economy Withstanding Slumping Housing Market

WASHINGTON — Despite some economic slumps in the market, most industries are withstanding the sharp drop in housing activity. Analysts report that the economy is going through a slow period in response to a serious housing slump, but has not shown strains that could bring on a recession. Economic data released this month included big retail chains reporting sales in December below expectations, and orders to factories for manufactured goods rising by 0.9% in November, a smaller-than-expected gain. Also, demand declined for home appliances and furniture, two industries connected to the slumping housing market, and orders dropped for new cars. Additionally, the service sector, where most people in the country work, grew at a slower rate in December than in November. On a positive note, there was a gain in orders in November for military aircraft, and orders for commercial airplanes rose by 0.8%.

City Sees Junk Bond Status Evaporate

SPRINGFIELD — Standard & Poor’s has upgraded the city’s bond rating from BB to BBB, which means the city has an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Standard & Poor’s credits the Finance Control Board with its remarkable turnaround from just two years ago. Mayor Charles V. Ryan termed the rating as a “major step forward for the city.” In related news, Moody’s Investor Services has reported a stable financial outlook for the city for the first time since 1990.

Six Flags Selling Off Seven Parks

NEW YORK — Six Flags Inc. plans to sell seven of its theme parks as part of a strategy to reduce debt and enhance its operational and financial flexibility. Six Flags New England in Agawam is not one of the parks up for sale. Six Flags currently owns 30 North American parks and expects to garner $312 million from the sale of the seven parks. At press time, the parks were being purchased by Jacksonville, Fla.-based park operator PARC 7F-Operations Corp., but PARC will simultaneously sell them to Orlando-based real estate investment trust CNL Income Properties Inc. CNL will then lease the parks back to PARC. The parks include Six Flags Darien Lake near Buffalo, N.Y.; Six Flags Elitch Gardens in Denver; both Frontier City and the White Water Bay water park in Oklahoma City; SplashTown in Houston; Waterworld USA in Concord, Calif.; and Wild Waves and Enchanted Village in Seattle. The sale is expected to close in March.

Mortgage Rates on the Rise

WASHINGTON — Rates on 30-year mortgages rose during mid-January to the highest level since mid-November after a better-than-anticipated employment report renewed inflation worries in financial markets. Freddie Mac, the mortgage giant, reported that 30-year, fixed-rate mortgages were averaging 6.21% during the week of Jan. 8, up from 6.18% the previous week. Analysts noted that financial markets were reacting to a stronger reading on employment, with 167,000 jobs created in December — the best showing in three months. Analysts also are optimistic that mortgage rates would not rise far this year, predicting that 30-year rates would not top 6.5%.

Office Building to Get Upgrade

HOLYOKE — Suffolk Realty Associates LLC, with offices in Holyoke and New York City, has purchased the former Hadley Falls Trust Co. building at Maple and Suffolk streets, as well as an adjoining one-story structure on Suffolk Street and two parking lot areas on Maple Street. The firm purchased the parcels in December for a reported $675,000. The new owners have notified tenants of the properties that improvements would be made and that their input would be considered. Additionally, the new owners hope that the upgrades will entice new renters to its available building space.

Survey: Executives Expect Moderate M&A Activity

MENLO PARK, Calif. — Corporate marriages may be on the rise through the end of the decade, according to a new survey by Robert Half Management Resources. Twenty-seven percent of chief financial officers (CFOs) polled recently said they expect the number of corporate mergers and acquisitions (M&As) overall to increase in the next 12 months. In a follow-up survey, 48% of CFOs polled said they anticipate greater M&A activity in the next two to three years. The survey was conducted by an independent research firm and includes responses from 1,400 CFOs from a stratified random sample of U.S. companies with 20 or more employees. Among industries, the greatest amount of merger activity is expected to take place in the transportation and finance sectors in the next two to three years, according to executives polled. Relatively low interest rates and deep cash reserves within many companies are prompting firms to make strategic acquisitions, according to Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. McDonald added that the complex nature of the merger and acquisition process is driving the need for financial executives with specialized M&A experience to support them in conducting due diligence, analyzing financial data, developing competitive forecasts, and assisting with tax compliance issues.

By
Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of November 2006.

AGAWAM

Pride Convenience Inc.
6 North Westfield St.
$9,000 – Construction of concrete prefab pad for ATM building

AMHERST

Servicenet Inc.
364 Southeast St.
$4,000 – Install new entry door and handicap ramp

LUDLOW

Keystone Commons
460 West St.
$9,585,000 – Construction of multi-family dwelling

United Development Group LLC
562 Holyoke St.
$97,600 – Foundation for new building

NORTHAMPTON

Captive Energy LLC
474 Easthampton Road
$373,000 – Construct new Plumbing/HVAC contracting building

David W. Ostrander
36 Service Center
$97,000 — Install non-bearing partitions, handicap bathroom & new HVAC

City of Northampton
380 Maple St.
$80,000 – Isolating cable T.V. studio

City of Northampton
85 Hampton Avenue
$11,000 – Construct access ramp to garage

Fitzgerald Corporation
39 Maple St.
$3,800 – Install replacement windows

KSR 277 Partnership
277 Crescent St.
$570,000 – Construction of five-unit apartments

Northampton Golf Inc.
135 Main St.
$117,000 – Repair fire damage

Northampton Montessori Society
51 Bates St.
$4,000 – Chimney rebuild

Todd A. Marchefka
74 Bridge St.
$20,000 – Construct foundation only

PALMER

Rocky’s Hardware
35 Shearer St.
$11,000 – Demolition of building to put in Rocky’s

Wing Memorial
40 Wright St.
$14,618,000 – Addition to hospital

  

SPRINGFIELD

Big Y Food, Inc.
1070 St. James Avenue
$10,000 – Interior renovation & sheet rock

Independence House One
1475 Roosevelt Avenue
$125,000 – Renovations to existing kitchen

Jose Gonzalez
620 Carew St.
$4,200 – Convert existing space into banquet use

Merchant Equity Asset Management
1350 Main St.
$69,500 – Interior renovations to create new offices

Picknelly Family LLC
1414 Main St.
$17,000 – Create two new offices for James Farrell Accounting

Spine Realty LLC
55 St. George Road
$1,117,000 – Construction of a 5,111-square-foot metal building

Sprint/Global Signal
90 Memorial Dr.
$40,000 – Replace existing antennas on communication tower

Steven’s Realty Inc.
115 Stevens St.
$19,000 – New outdoor scale foundation for trucks

The Russo Group
88-96 Maple St.
$19,000 – Repair deck at rear of building

United Bank
1077 St. James Ave.
$28,000 – Rebuild drive through

Venture Properties Inc.
382 Dwight St.
$6,000 – Interior renovations

WESTFIELD

Sons of Erin
22 William St.
$30,000 – Commercial addition

Xinoke Dunn
26 North Elm St.
$2,000 – Interior renovations

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Comfort Inn & Suites
106 Capital Drive
$5,000 – Flat roof renovations

Dawn Nooney
242 Riverdale St.
$25,000 – Day Spa renovation

By
Departments

Peter Pan and Affiliates Launch Initiative

SPRINGFIELD — After months of planning and development, Peter Pan Bus Lines Inc. and its affiliates Bonanza and Arrow Bus Lines (collectively referred to as “Peter Pan”) have installed global positioning system (GPS) devices that will help the company reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from its motorcoach fleet. Peter Pan is the first inter-city bus carrier to install GPS devices in all of its 288 buses in its fleet serving the northeast corridor that stretches from Boston through Washington, D.C. Peter Pan has developed customized GPS hardware and software giving managers real-time data on the operation of each vehicle in service, allowing them to inform drivers when excessive idling is occurring with a vehicle. The cutting-edge technology will have the impact of limiting the amount of idling time and reducing greenhouse gas emissions substantially. Additionally, reduced idling time will reduce Peter Pan’s fuel consumption. The company also announced it is in the process of installing engine filters that will prevent releases of oil that could impact storm water, and to collect additional greenhouse gases produced during the operation of its motorcoaches, as part of a settlement with the United States Environmental Protection Agency. In a related move, Peter Pan has established an environmental compliance and safety team to ensure that the company is in compliance or exceeding all federal, state and local environmental law and regulations.

OMG Acquires Roofing Business

AGAWAM — OMG Inc. recently announced the acquisition of ITW Buildex’s roofing business segment, based in Illinois. OMG, a manufacturer of fasteners and building products for the commercial and residential construction industry, sought out the business since it develops and manufactures fastening systems for the commercial roofing industry, according to Hugh McGovern, President, OMG. McGovern added that the acquisition demonstrates OMG’s significant commitment to the commercial roofing sector. In addition, OMG will now be able to add a suite of new products to its catalog, including AccuTrac® Automated Insulation and Seam Attachment System, Polymer Batten Strip™ for membrane attachment, Eyehook Seam Plate, and Reel-Fast™ Collated Seam Plates. OMG’s new Chicago factory, previously maintained by ITW Buildex, will employ approximately 30 people and includes a full customer service center. No manufacturing layoffs are anticipated during the acquisition process. OMG is a division of Handy & Harman, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of WHX Corporation.

Berkshire Bank Opens Seventh New York Branch

PITTSFIELD — Berkshire Hills Bancorp Inc. recently announced the opening of a full-service branch at The Crossing in Halfmoon, N.Y. This is the bank’s sixth branch in the Albany Capital Region and its seventh in New York. The bank now operates a network of 28 full-service branches and 38 ATMs throughout Northeastern New York and Western Mass. Berkshire Hills Bancorp is the holding company for Berkshire Bank.

CDH Employees Exceed $500,000 Goal

NORTHAMPTON — Whether donating a small amount through payroll deductions or making a one-time gift, Cooley Dickinson Hospital employees have pledged $523,475 to Caring for the Future, the hospital’s $10.8 million campaign to fund the new Patient Building and Kittredge Surgery Center. To date, Cooley employees have exceeded the $500,000 employee campaign goal that was established in April 2005 when the hospital broke ground on the current $50 million expansion project. The fundraising effort at Cooley Dickinson will continue beyond the building opening date as the organization must raise $10.8 million by Sept. 30 to receive a $900,000 Kresge Challenge Grant. To date, $7.985 million has been raised toward this goal. On April 16, the Patient Building and Kittredge Surgery Center will open. The 116,000-square-foot facility will house eight surgery suites, a wing of 32 single-occupancy, private patient rooms, an eight-bed joint replacement center, and expanded laboratory and central sterile supply areas.

Bresnahan Insurance Relocates

HOLYOKE — Bresnahan Insurance Agency recently relocated its offices to 100 Whiting Farms Road. All phone and fax numbers and E-mail addresses have remained the same.

Smith & Wesson Completes Purchase

SPRINGFIELD — Smith & Wesson Holding Corp. recently announced its acquisition of Thompson/Center Arms Inc., based in Rochester, N.H. Thompson/Center is a manufacturer, marketer, and designer of premium hunting firearms. The deal includes the company’s plant in New Hampshire which produces all of its products. Products include black powder firearms, black powder accessories, and interchangeable firearm systems, as well as precision rimfire rifles. Smith & Wesson Holding Company is the parent company of gunmaker Smith & Wesson Corp., based in Springfield.

Fourth-quarter Sales Up At Yankee Candle

DEERFIELD — Yankee Candle officials have estimated that fourth-quarter sales were up 16% to 17% and earnings per share increased more than 25%. Officials also noted that retail sales in the quarter were $177 million and $178 million, up between 22% and 23%. Comparable sales in the 373 stores that have been open more than a year were up about 11%. In other company news, a special shareholders meeting is planned Jan. 23 to vote on its proposed merger with an affiliate of Madison Dearborn Partners LLC, a private equity firm. Yankee Candle has said the proposed transaction, which would take the company private, could close in February if approved by shareholders. The deal includes Madison Dearborn Partners affiliate to acquire all of Yankee Candle’s outstanding shares for approximately $1.4 billion in cash.

By
Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2006.

AGAWAM

Joseph Mancini Painting
420 Main St.
Joseph M. Mancini

Polar Hoods
15 Belmont Ave.
David Jalbert

AMHERST

Family Cleaners
106 Gray St.
Steven & Janet Newcombe

G.T. Aldrich Farm
488 South East St.
Gregory & Sonia Aldrich

I & I Occasional Press
186 Harkness Road
James L Bess

Mr. Vision Company
252 West St.
Alex De Crespigny

R. Hyers & Associates
15 Blue Hills Road
Robert Hyers

CHICOPEE

Jerry Cycle Repair
102 Old Fuller Road
Gerald A. Robare

Kilgarvan Communications
611 Memorial Drive
John S. Sullivan

Jiffy Lube
Memorial Drive
Richard Smith

Mars Auto Sales Inc.
363 Chicopee St.
Mario Tascon

M.A.R. Auto Service Inc.
31 Prospect St.
Michael F. Pawlishen

Metamorfosis Salon & Day Spa
208 Exchange St.
Rafael Collazo

Penske Truck Leasing
30 Fuller Road
George E. Robel

Precious Stitches
35 Clarendon Avenue
Pamela Jean Isham

Rallye Automotive LLC
765 Memorial Avenue
Bernard T. Curry III

Ron’s Motor Sales
347 McKinstry Avenue
Ronald St. Pierre

Tony & Sons Auto Service
170 South St.
Antonio Francisco

EASTHAMPTON

The HandyMan Can…
26 Emerald Place
Michael Gianninoto

EAST LONGMEADOW

Springfield Scraping Company
586 North Main St.
Edward Pepper

GREENFIELD

Franklin County Fabricators Inc.
8 Greenfield St.
James H. Wenzel

HOLYOKE

MJ Promotions LLC
50 Holyoke St.
Anthony Son

Retrophanatic Consignment Thrift Shop
146 High St.
Lorenzo Cox

Sam’s Food Stores
515 High St.
Syed A. Ali

Today’s Nails
50 Holyoke St.
Anthony Son

NORTHAMPTON

Panacea Salon
28 Pleasant St.
Patricia R. Britt

Pranic Energy Healing Institute
199 Main St.
Devita B. Caponigro

SMJ Metals Inc.
36 Smith St.
Arthur Grodd

Symbols & Cymbals
415 Prospect St.
Nerissa Nields-Duffy

 

Wondertime
47 Pleasant St.
Buena Vista Magazines, Inc.

PALMER

Eugene Campbell Self Publishing
25 Holbrook St.
Eugene Richard Campbell

Leo Boucher Home Improvements
1422 R. Park St.
Leo Boucher

Townline Auto Body
1219 Thorndike St.
Dulce C. Gendreau

SOUTH HADLEY

The Trinity Group
11 College St.
Catherine M. Bedinotti

SOUTHWICK

SSCMS. Com
188 Berkshire St.
Sara Siu

SPRINGFIELD

BP Logistics
371 East Columbus Avenue
Alicia Nicole Clink

Combo Wok
1500 Main St.
Neung Chummasorn

Common Ground Diner
1677 Main St.
Daniel Peter Boyle

Cut-N-Curl
428 Springfield St.
Victoria Beach

Liberty Chiropractic
125 Liberty St.
Douglas J. Gendron

Lteif Transportation Service, LLC
480 St. James St.
Nadim F. Lteif

Main St. Convenience Store
172 Main St.
Linda Wellington

Next Level Adventure
187 Arcadia Blvd.
Bradford C. Miller

Pearson Professional Center
One Monarch Place Suite Ten
NCS Pearson Inc.

Remarkable Touch
16 Leatherleaf Circle
Leon Kevin White

Roberto Garcia Courier Service
52 Waverly St.
Roberto Garcia

Sirena’s Seafood Restaurant
137 Chestnut St.
Maria A. Spano

The Stevedo Group
41 Merwin St.
Steve Acevedo

Tim’s Landscaping
66 Mildred Avenue
Timothy Rahilly

Wireless Solutions
143 State St.
Ricarti Burgois

WESTFIELD

Onsite R.V. Repair
9 Otis St.
Craig Neven

Ruslan’s Remodeling
71 Prospect St.
Ruslan Solokhin

Stadium Sound
110 Northridge Road
Eric Arena

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Lisa Gilbert, LMT
1452 Memorial Avenue
Lisa M. Gilbert

LMR Inc.
1272 Memorial Ave.
Breakers Billiards

Pizzeria Pompeli
9 Norman St.
15 PSI LLC

TD Banknorth, N.A.
969 Riverdale St.
Gina M. Kelly

Thistle Enterprises
767 Main St.
Angus Maciver Rushlow

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Departments

The Micro-wave of the Future

Microtest of Agawam has enhanced its analytical lab services with the installation of a new, advanced technology, MicroSeq® Microbial Identification System. The MicroSeq is a state-of-the-art DNA sequence-based system that enables Microtest technicians to more quickly and accurately identify bacteria isolates that are not viable or easily identified. Using the MicroSeq system, Microtest technicians can provide precise and reliable bacteria, mycoplasma, and mold identification in a 24-hour time period. Traditional bacteria and mold identification lab tests are often less accurate, and require up to a one-week turn-around time.

For Kids in Need

Nearly 4,000 new toys, games and books were donated to domestic violence shelters throughout New England as part of Verizon Wireless’s annual Kids in Need holiday toy drive. The collection is part of the company’s year-round HopeLine program to benefit domestic violence shelters and the families they serve. Pictured here (left to right) are Verizon Wireless Springfield employees Megan Mosher, Tony Leonczyk, and Jackie Van Buren along with Jodi Smith from the ARCH Program of the YWCA in Springfield, a recipient organization. The photo was taken at the Verizon Wireless Communications Store at 1420 Boston Road in Springfield.

Marching On

For the fourth year in a row, Morgan Stanley has made a contribution to the March of Dimes to help in the mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. To date, the company has contributed more than $25,000 dollars to the March of Dimes, a national voluntary health agency. Pictured are employees at Morgan Stanley in Springfield, proudly presenting a check for $5,000 to March of Dimes Western Mass. Division Director Carrie Fuller.

OPINION

By
Opinion
Rewarding Corporate Honesty

Small public companies have been bristling under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the post-Enron law intended to restore trust in corporate financial reporting. The Securities and Exchange Commission plans to relieve these small companies of some of the act’s requirements. Presumably, the costs imposed on these corporations outweigh the benefits to investors, so some recalibration seems appropriate.

But as the SEC considers which changes to Sarbanes-Oxley might be in order, it has a chance to do something else: reward honest corporations, large and small, for their good behavior.

The 2002 act includes two types of regulations. One type should apply to every public company — for example, basic accounting regulations. With good reason, the act specifies activities companies have to report, how to calculate various items in their accounting statements, and so on. Such regulations need to be standardized, because investors, regulators, corporate boards, and corporate management need identical measures to evaluate and compare the financial statements of enterprises.

The second type of regulation demanded by the act is different and more far-reaching. It directs companies to set up specific corporate structures and internal controls that are thought to discourage abuses. For instance, the act requires companies to form compliance committees within their boards of directors — even if there are only a few directors on a given corporation’s board. Right now, these regulations are standardized, too. But they shouldn’t be.

Corporations can be honest with different structures, depending on their history, size, type of business, and culture, and on the kind of people who work there.

Not all honest organizations follow the same business processes and internal controls. When all public corporations are required by law to follow the same internal structure and compliance rules, honest corporations that have not previously practiced the standard rules must change their internal processes.

This is not as easy as it sounds. Each organization has its own culture — automatic ways in which people expect one another to behave. Like all habits, these are efficient because they do not require the actors to continuously evaluate their actions or weigh the pros and cons of every decision.

Culture and processes, like all habits, are hard to change. This is both their virtue and their disadvantage. As every driver in a new area or an employee in a new organization knows, even good habits of safe driving or collegial behavior are hard to adjust to in an unfamiliar environment. Right now, Sarbanes-Oxley imposes on honest corporations the costs of changing familiar, honest habits into different honest habits.

These costs can be exorbitant and unnecessary. Why should honest companies have to change their ways? Because these corporations have withstood fraudulent competitive practices, they should be exempt from provisions of the act that impose costs of changing corporate internal habits and culture.

Obviously, rogue corporations should indeed change their culture and internal processes. Which is to say, they should change their bad habits. So the second type of regulations — the rules mandating changes in corporate structure — should apply to them and to them alone. And indeed, when rogue corporations are found in violation of SEC rules, most settlements with them include requirements for changing internal processes, which is as it should be.

Applying certain regulations only to rogue corporations would reward the good guys. Those who are freed of the required cultural changes can reap the rewards of lower costs, a better image among customers and investors, and a competitive advantage over those who gained a competitive advantage by illegal means.

How to distinguish the honest from the rogue? This can be done either automatically — you’re out unless proven to be dishonest — or by letting corporations apply for an exemption upon certain evidence of good behavior. Once the principle of reward is adopted, the rules to implement the principle could be designed. In sum, the SEC should consider rewarding corporate honesty by bestowing competitive advantage on the good guys.

Tamar Frankel, a Boston University law professor, is author of Trust and Honesty: America’s Business Culture at a Crossroad. This article appeared in the Boston Globe.

Workforce Development is Priority One

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Opinion

As Gov. Deval Patrick settles into his new job, he finds a rather tall pile in his ‘in’ box.

There are many issues to contend with, starting with the budget — a large deficit is projected — and continuing with energy, healthcare costs, and higher education.

While coping with all this, he must also leave time and energy to address the Massachusetts workforce and its steadily deteriorating state. The reason is obvious: without a qualified workforce, Massa-chusetts simply will not be able to compete in an increasingly global economy. Closer to home, the surge in economic development we’ve all been waiting for will not materialize unless or until we can improve the quality and quantity of workers in the Pioneer Valley.

Before getting into how to address the problem, let’s first state it. The alarming statistics are spelled out in a recent report titled Mass Economy: The Labor Supply and Our Economic Future, compiled by MassINC and the Northeastern University Center for Labor Market Studies. It shows that, from 2003 to 2005, the Commonwealth’s labor force shrank by 1.7%, while the U.S. workforce increased by 3.1%. Part of the reason for this is out-migration — people, especially younger constituencies, are leaving the state, in part because of fewer good job opportunities — but increasingly, the reason people aren’t working is because they’re simply not qualified to handle the work.

This phenomenon is born out in statistics that show that, statewide, there are 171,000 people unemployed, while 74,000 jobs go unfilled. There will always be a skills gap, and therefore what are known as job vacancies, meaning positions that could be filled but are not because skilled help cannot be found. But this glaring disconnect could have serious consequences for the Commonwealth if it isn’t closed.

To narrow the gap, Patrick and his administration must make a real commitment to workforce development, as other states that Massachusetts competes against have made. By ‘real’ commitment we mean funding programs on a permanent line-item basis; historically, studies and pilot programs, such as those ongoing in this region concerning precision machining and nursing, have been supported, but later, when it comes to funding the initiatives identified by those studies, the money has come inconsistently and through a mountain of red tape involving no less than 12 state agencies.

Funding must be more consistent, and the process for disseminating it must be simplified.

Overall, Patrick and his administration must use every resource available to address the workforce issue, starting with early childhood education and continuing with adult basic education initiatives, English as a Second Language programs, and other efforts to enable individuals to be workforce ready.

The state needs to bring together the various parties that are tasked with addressing this problem — employers, career centers, municipal and economic development leaders, educational institutions, and especially the state’s community colleges — and give them the resources needed to get the job done.

What the state doesn’t need is another study. While the extent of the problem can be debated, the basic facts cannot be; the state is losing workers at a time when it needs more of them, and with a greater set of skills than ever before.

There is much at stake for the Commonwealth, and especially for the Pioneer Valley. Without consistent attention to workforce development, the region’s strongest sectors, such as health care, will not be able to grow at the rate they have been. Meanwhile, if more skilled individuals are not put into the pipeline, the region will continue to lose jobs in the manufacturing sector, even among its many highly successful precision machining plants, and sectors like biotech and biotech manufacturing will struggle to get off the ground.

The governor has many priority items to address in the year ahead. They are all important, but the state’s workforce — and efforts to rebuild it — must go at the top of the pile. Without a solid workforce, the state will lose its competitive edge.

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Departments

Law Firm Opens Northampton Office

NORTHAMPTON — Representatives of the Springfield-based firm Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury and Murphy, P.C. recently celebrated the opening of a Hampshire County office at 60 State St. in Northampton. Thomas M. Growhoski, Esq. has joined the practice. The firm offers a wide range of legal services including litigation, corporate, probate, real estate, taxation, estate planning, and intellectual property law.

Museum Launches New Web Site

AMHERST — The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art has launched a new Web site that features a new design, a greatly expanded online shop with more than 1,000 items, and improved educational resources for teachers and parents. The Web site, www.picturebookart.org, is now in its first phase of a three-phase program aimed at reaching out to new audiences and offering online visitors a more informative and dynamic Web experience. The site provides general museum information, an event calendar, a schedule of exhibitions, and information on fundraising initiatives, including membership. The museum determined as part of an extensive and ongoing strategic planning exercise, funded in part by a grant from the Institute for Museum and Library Services, that investing in the development of the museum’s Web presence would allow the museum to transcend geographical boundaries and provide enhanced access to its unique resources. Second and third phases of the project include the addition of special password-protected pages for members and other key constituents, as well as greater interactivity for children and families.

STCC Offers GIS Program

SPRINGFIELD — City planners, construction engineers, and real estate agents are among the many professionals who now use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to create new information related to specific geographic locations, according to Dr. Ted Sussmann, chair of the Civil Engineering Technology Department at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). In the spring, the college will launch a certificate program in GIS that will be offered through the School of Business and Information Technologies. The one-year program will prepare students for entry-level positions from technicians to data analysts and project managers. Sussmann and Nina Laurie, an associate for the National Center for Telecommunications Technologies at STCC as well as an adjunct faculty member, successfully applied for a $15,000 Mentor Links grant from the American Association of Community Colleges in 2005 to develop the GIS program. The grant program linked STCC with faculty mentors from Lake Land College in Illinois and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, which have recently instituted GIS programs, to pass on their experience in curriculum development.

Red Cross Honors Easthampton Savings

EASTHAMPTON — The Hampshire County chapter of the American Red Cross recently presented Easthampton Savings Bank with its 2006 Philos Award. The award recognizes an individual or business that best exemplifies the spirit of charitable giving. The Red Cross cited several examples of the bank’s generosity, ranging from its donations over the years to many projects to sponsoring ads to enhance public responses to Red Cross events and fundraisers. In addition, the bank was cited for featuring Red Cross first aid information and products for sale in their lobbies in December.

Mercy’s ED Leads Survey in Patient Satisfaction

SPRINGFIELD — The Emergency Department (ED) at Mercy Medical Center has undergone several dramatic changes in recent months, and the hard work is paying off, with its selection as the best emergency room in a recent patient survey. Patient satisfaction is a top priority for Mercy’s ED, and the most recent survey ranks the ED first in patient satisfaction among the 33 acute-care Catholic Health East member hospitals. This recognition follows a recent renovation project in the ED that placed an emphasis on delivering the best medical care possible, as quickly as possible, using the latest available technology. Specifically, these changes included the adoption of a new triage system, improvements to the “Fast Track” system for minor injuries, and greater assistance from patient advocates. “Mercy’s ED often serves as a ‘front door’ to our facility, and we are grateful for the staff’s commitment and dedication to delivering treatment quickly and compassionately,” said James E. Fanale, M.D., chief operating officer of Mercy Medical Center.

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Departments

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

AMHERST

Firehaus Studio Inc., 34 Main St., Suite 11, Amherst 01002. Liza Cunningham, same. Design services for online publishing and marketing.

CHESTER

Bolduc Mechanical Services Inc., 20 Sylvester Hamilton Road, Chester 01011. Florence Bolduc, same. Automobile repair, installation and maintenance.

CHICOPEE

Christopher Keroack, M.D., P.C., 268 Szetela Dr., Chicopee 01013. Christopher Keroack, M.D., same. To provide medical services in the field of weight management.

James Lowe CPA Inc., 377 Montgomery St., Chicopee 01020. James W. Lowe Jr., same. Accounting services.

Kilgarden Communications Inc., 611 Memorial Dr., Chicopee 01013. John J. Sullivan, 270 Morgan St., South Hadley 01075. Retail store for sale of telephones, telephone services, etc.

HAMPDEN

Hampden Wilbraham Special Education Parent Advisory Council Inc., 85 Wilbraham Road, Hampden 01036. Maribel Kane, 7 Blacksmith Road, Wilbraham 01095. (Nonprofit) To work towards the understanding of support and education for all children with special needs.

Lisa Fallon, CPA, P.C., 45 Somers Road, Hampden 01036. Lisa M. Fallon, 501 Springfield St., Wilbraham 01095. Certified public accounting services in businesses and individuals.

HOLYOKE

New England Regional Health Care Cooperative Inc., 575 Beech St., c/o Holyoke Medical Center Inc., Holyoke 01040. Michael A. Zwirko, 58 Shady Side Dr., Longmeadow 01106. (Nonprofit) Centralized data processing, billing, food, laboratory, communications, record center and personnel services, etc.

The Order of the White Oak Inc., 101 St. Kolbe Dr., Holyoke 01040. Daibhaid O’Broder, 13 Van Tassel Dr., SE, Lindale, GA 30147. Jeffrey Lilly, 101 St. Kolbe Dr., Holyoke 01040, treasurer. (Nonprofit) To discuss with our peers the lessons of ancient and recent history, to study the Brehan laws of Ireland, etc.

HUNTINGTON

Bob’s Discount Network Inc., 19 Goss Hill Road, Huntington 01050. Robert Deshay, same. Internet sales and marketing.

  

INDIAN ORCHARD

Parker Liquors Inc., 42 Parker St., Indian Orchard 01151. Jose M. Goncalves, 185 Elizabeth Dr., Ludlow 01056. To own and operate one or more package stores or departments.

LONGMEADOW

Canine Health Events Inc., 167 Dwight Road, Suite 207, c/o Mancinone, Longmeadow 01106. Gayle L. Watkins, 40 Walmer Lane, Cold Spring, NY 10516. Paul L. Mancinone, CPA, Esq., 167 Dwight Road, Suite 207, Longmeadow 01106, resident agent. (Nonprofit) To run events to raise the public’s education and awareness of canine health concerns and disease prevention, etc.

NORTHAMPTON

Massachusetts Academy of Sciences Corp., 371 Prospect St., Northampton 01060. Margaret A. Riley, same. (Nonprofit) To promote the development of interest in scientific matters and science education in Massachusetts.

Route 9 Design and Build Inc., 104 North Elm St., Northampton 01033. John K. Landry, same. Residential and commercial property design.

SOUTH HADLEY

Help From Above Services Inc., 62 High St., c/o Wilmore Webley, Ph.D., South Hadley 01075. Samuel Asare, 62 Capitol View Ave., North Providence, RI 02908. Ellen Webley, 62 High St., South Hadley 01075, treasurer. (Nonprofit) To provide a variety of social, economic, cultural, and spiritual programs to improve people’s lives including persons with mental disabilities, etc.

SPRINGFIELD

Al Ledger Home Improvements Inc., 165 Saw Mill Road, Springfield 01118. Albert M. Ledger, same. Home improvements.

Chico’s North End Oil Service Inc., 2543 Main St., Springfield 01107. Cecilio V. Rivera, same. Fuel oil delivery, automotive transportation and repair.

Heeb Management Inc., 83-85 Magazine St., Springfield 01109. Christopher M. Evans, same. To deal in real estate and ancillary services

Reese Management Inc., 173-175 Spring St., Springfield 01105. Christopher M. Evans, same. To deal in real estate.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Modern Construction Inc., 100 New Bridge St., West Springfield 01089. Vadimir Lapik, same. Construction, landscaping, real estate.

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Departments

Branching Out

Representatives of the Springfield-based law firm Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury and Murphy P.C. recently joined Mayor Mary Clare Higgins in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of the firm’s new Hampshire County office at 60 State St. in Northampton, the location of the former Growhoski & Callahan. Thomas M. Growhoski, Esq., a well established Northampton attorney, has joined the practice of Doherty, Wallace Pillsbury and Murphy, P.C. Pictured, from left, are attorneys Gary P. Shannon, Bernadette Harrigan, Paul S. Doherty, Mayor Higgins, and Attorney Thomas M. Growhoski.

A Breakthrough at CDH

Last month, workers broke through the existing wall on the ground floor level into the new $50 million Patient Building and Kittredge Surgery Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Workers used a diamond-tipped saw to cut through an 18-inch-thick concrete wall. They divided the segments of wall into 16 sections that each weighed approximately 500 pounds each. Break-throughs on the first, third and fourth floors will occur during January.

View to a Prize

Awarding the raffle grand prize plasma TV at the Springfield Technical Community College holiday party are Ray Turrini, of the STCC campus police, as Santa, Raffle winner Kevin Sullivan, and Jason Ahlam of TheaterXtreme. The TV/DVD package was donated by TheaterXtreme of Springfield. The raffle generated $1850, which was donated by STCC to the Food Bank of Western Mass.

Easy Cell

Recycling no-longer-used cell phones throughout Berkshire County just got easier with the support of Berkshire County law enforcement. District Attorney David F. Capeless has launched a countywide partnership with Verizon Wireless for the company’s HopeLine program. HopeLine facilitates an environmentally friendly way to recycle phones from any carrier in any condition. Phones are refurbished or sold for parts, with proceeds going to non-profit domestic violence shelters and the families they serve. Working phones with service and voicemail are given to women in dangerous living situations while transitioning out of violent relationships. The Elizabeth Freeman Center, the Pittsfield-based domestic violence services agency, recently received a $1,000 grant from the Verizon Wireless HopeLine program as the direct result of the phone donation and recycling program. Pictured are, left to right, Capeless, Berkshire County Sheriff Carmen Massimiano, Elizabeth Freeman Center Director of Clinical Services Randall Fisher and Verizon Wireless Pittsfield store manager Jonathan Nadler. In addition to the District attorney’s offices in both Pittsfield and North Adams, the Berkshire County Sheriff’s Office and various Police Departments throughout Berkshire county have joined the effort and will also serve as drop-off sites. The Pittsfield Verizon Wireless Communications Store on Hubbard Avenue is another drop-off point for HopeLine phones and accepts phones year-round seven days a week.

Top of the City Party

Enjoying the Springfield Technical Community College Foundation’s recent annual Top of the City party are, from left, Michael J. Oleksak, regional president of Berkshire Bank, Brian P. Tuohey, president of the STCC Foundation and president of Collins Pipe & Supply Co., Nancy D. Mirkin, STCC Foundation Board member and vice president of Hampden Bank, and Fran Mirkin, an attorney with the Springfield firm Bacon & Wilson, P.C.

Holiday Happening

Springfield Technical Community College student leaders brought a holiday party to brighten the season for families at the Open Pantry Shelter. STCC student Fernando Sanchez was Santa for the visit, which included presents for the resident families and staff, a pizza lunch, and a tricycle to be kept at the shelter for future children to enjoy.