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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Court Dockets

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Court Dockets Departments

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

CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Belmont Laundry Inc. v. Michael’s Pasta in the Pan and River Road Corp.
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to pay for services rendered: $8,375
Filed: 1/29/15

FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT
John Doe v. Allen Chase Foundation d/b/a Eaglebrook School and Andrew Chase
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to provide a safe academic environment when plaintiff was attacked by members of the hockey team causing severe personal injury: $100,000+
Filed: 12/17/14

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Leader Home Center Inc. v. Charles Cresta d/b/a Raven Construction
Allegation: Non-payment for goods and services: $6,228.11
Filed: 12/10/14

Vend Lease Co. Inc. v. Edward Wierzbowski, Arts Block, LLC, Global American Television Inc. and Puskin, LLC
Allegation: Defendants are indebted to the plaintiff based upon a debt on judgment: $19,094.92
Filed: 12/17/14

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Cadlerock III, LLC v. Pisa Granite & Marble, LLC, Pedro Caceres, Creations Factory, LLC
Allegation: Suit upon a Connecticut judgment: $839,000
Filed: 1/12/15

NWS Corp. v. Sergio Bonavita and Westfield Brewing Co., LLC
Allegation: Breach of commercial lease: $85,838
Filed: 1/21/15

PALMER DISTRICT COURT
Ali Syed v. Balise Motor Sales Co., James Balise Jr., and Steven M. Mitus
Allegation: Failure to pay wages: $25,000+
Filed: 1/21/15

Shemin Nurseries Inc. v. CSL Inc. and Nancy Barroso Rodrigues
Allegation: Default on term note: $7,171.69
Filed: 1/23/15

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Bass Spine and Rehabilitation, LLC v. Peerless Insurance Co.
Allegation: Defendant failed to make PIP payments: $967.28
Filed: 1/5/15

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Send photos with a caption and contact information to: ‘Picture This’ c/o BusinessWest Magazine, 1441 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103 or to [email protected]

DanaFarberCheckPicThis0215b

Driving for the Cure

For six years, the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament has raised more than $480,000 to support Dr. Patrick Wen (left) and his team of researchers in the Neuro-Oncology Department at Dana Farber Cancer Institute. This year, the four-player scramble held at Crestview Country Club included 144 golfers and 175 banquet guests, raising $76,300. The annual tournament was started by Carla and Tommy Cosenzi (right and center) in memory of their father, Tom Cosenzi, who succumbed to a glioblastoma brain tumor in 2009.

Court Dockets

By
Court Dockets Departments

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

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Daviau Construction, LLC v. Complete Restoration Solutions Inc.
Allegations: Failure to pay under the terms of a construction contract: $28,010
Filed: 12/30/14

Prospect Builders Inc. v. Elmcrest Country Club
Allegations: Non-payment of construction labor and materials provided: $33,378.22
Filed: 12/16/14

Quality Health Ideas Inc. v. Accountable Care Associates Inc.
Allegations: Breach of contract and breach of implied covenant of good-faith and fair dealing: $955,916.00
Filed: 12/23/14

USNE Inc. v. Prime Solutions Inc., Sune Monson I, LLC, and Pro-Tech Energy Solutions Inc.
Allegations: Non-payment of labor and materials: $118,843.30
Filed: 12/18/14

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Ian Hogan v. Gary M. Bombardier, M.D., Louis J. Durkin, M.D., Holyoke Medical Center, and Mercy Medical Center
Allegations: Tortious interference with business relations causing plaintiff to lose his job and restrict future employment: $450,000
Filed: 12/9/14

Michael J. Kocak, personally and as administrator for the estate of John W. Kocak v. Apple New England, LLC d/b/a Applebee’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill
Allegations: John Kocak was a patron at Applebee’s where he choked on food and later died as a result: $25,000+
Filed: 12/4/14

Vincent O’Connell and Katharine Swanson v. George Propane Inc.
Allegations: Negligence in winterizing of heating system causing damage to property: $42,000
Filed: 11/17/14

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Cheryl A. Vaid v. Seneca Foods Corp. and Stop and Shop Companies Inc.
Allegations: Negligence in food packaging and breach of implied merchantability: $25,000.00+
Filed: 12/9/14

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Thomas Publishing Co., LLC v. Diecutting Tooling Services Inc.
Allegations: Non-payment of advertising services rendered: $3,938.40
Filed: 11/24/14

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Horizon Beverage Co. Inc. v. Buck Pond Enterprise Inc., f/d/b/a Tommy D’s
Allegations: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $3,929.16; Filed: 11/21/14

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SCCC-Capital-Camp-Bankers

Transforming Cancer Care

Mercy Medical Center recently announced that Westfield Bank and the Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation have pledged gifts of $150,000 and $100,000, respectively, to Transforming Cancer Care, the capital campaign for the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center, located at the hospital. From left, Bill Wagner, president of Chicopee Savings Bank; Diane Dukette, vice president of Fund Development for the Sisters of Providence Health System; and James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank, check on the progress of the $15 million project to expand the cancer center.





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Thirty Years and Still Growing

TSM Design, a brand-development, marketing, and design firm located in the historic Stearns Building in downtown Springfield, recently celebrated 30 years in business. Owner Nancy Urbschat has been with the agency for all but three months of the 30 years, and 2015 also marks the anniversary of her purchase of TSM Design 10 years ago. Urbschat said 2014 was a banner year for the company, with the opening of a second office in the historic G. Fox building in downtown Hartford and a host of new clients, including the city of Hartford, the Insurance Center of New England, White Lion, and Fathers & Sons. “I know it’s early in the year, but I think 2015 will be even stronger,” she added. Top: Urbschat, right, with Janet Bennett, marketing director, and Brittany Arita, designer, of TSM Design. Middle: Janet and Mark Bennett. (Photos by Chris Marion)

Building Permits

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Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of January 2015.

CHICOPEE

Frito-Lay Inc.
90 Champion Dr.
$21,000 — Replace existing overhead door

Front Street, LLC
916 Front St.
$4,000 — Strip and re-roof

Jennifer’s Kitchen
574 Chicopee St.
$9,000 — Install two commercial hood systems

LUDLOW

Black Diamond Development
485 Holyoke St.
$175,000 — New commercial construction

Citizens Bank
33 Center St.
$160,000 — Interior alterations

CVS
451 Center St.
$118,000 — Commercial alterations

Peter Kawie
250 West St.
$7,000 — Re-shingle

NORTHAMPTON

Atwood Drive, LLC
22 Atwood Dr.
$13,000 — Cell tower modifications

Clark Ave. Condos
53 Clark Ave.
$20,000 — Repair rear exterior decks

JW Inc.
71 King St.
$5,500 — Remodel second-floor bathroom

Northampton Housing Authority
56 Maple St.
$12,000 — Repair water damage

St. John’s Episcopal Church
48 Elm St.
$15,000 — Replace antennas and existing equipment

Valley Building Company, LLC
98 Market St.
$12,000 — Construct third-floor dormer and add egress

SOUTH HADLEY

Western Mass Girl Scouts
9 Camps Perkins Road
$18,000 — Install cell tower

Mt. Holyoke College
50 College St.
$20,500 — Renovations

SPRINGFIELD

1350 Main St., LLC
1350 Main St.
$66,000 — Construct conference room and break area

Astro Chemicals
126 Memorial St.
$1,955,000 — Construct a 25,000-square-foot metal building

CHE Trinity Health
195 Stafford St.
$38,000 — New roof

Expressions
1067 Boston Road
$3,000 — Interior renovations

Phillip Edison & Company
300 Cooley St.
$26,000 — New roof

WESTFIELD

FRP Holdings Westfield, LLC
64 Main St.
$230,000 — Interior renovation and new storefront

Westfield Housing Authority
16 Washington St.
$175,000 — Replace fire escapes

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Baghdad Bakery
977 Main St.
$3,000 — Install commercial exhaust hood

Big E
1305 Memorial Ave.
$780,000 — Reconstruction of bathrooms at the Better Living Center

Bill Bourque
177 Norman St.
$350,000 — Erect 3,880-square-foot single story building

Century Park, LLC
181 Park Ave.
$60,000 — Renovate 1,680 square feet of existing space

Chandler Architectural Product
255 Interstate Dr.
$12,000 — Re-roof

Clarion Hotel
1080 Riverdale St.
$90,000 — Interior renovation

Merrick Statron
389 Main St.
$107,000 — Create new office space

Real Estate Transactions

By
Departments Real Estate

The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BERNARDSTON

10 Eden Trail
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Heilman
Seller: Jeanne M. Bell
Date: 12/31/14

513 Huckle Hill Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Laura James
Seller: Thomas L. Sampson
Date: 01/07/15

54 River St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: Karen N Delorme
Seller: Lynch, Mary J., (Estate)
Date: 12/30/14

BUCKLAND

21 Walker Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Kavita H. Hunt
Seller: FNMA
Date: 01/07/15

6 Wall St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Kenneth G. Campbell
Seller: Mary F. Schreiber
Date: 01/09/15

COLRAIN

497 Adamsville Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Michael A. Giard
Seller: Crosier, Francis R., (Estate)
Date: 01/07/15

24 Ed Clark Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Holland A. Herzig
Seller: Joseph R. Henry
Date: 12/30/14

CONWAY

2966 Shelburne Falls Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Jeremy C. Sinkus
Seller: John A. Siano
Date: 01/09/15

DEERFIELD

165 Lower Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Terry J. Kimball
Seller: Clearvue Opportunity 16
Date: 01/08/15

117 Old Main St.
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Sunset RT
Seller: James M. Hardigg
Date: 01/08/15

ERVING

54 Mountain Road
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: William G. Gallant
Seller: Joseph S. Bagdonas
Date: 12/31/14

GREENFIELD

64 Adams Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $1,599,190
Buyer: Store Master Funding 7
Seller: Argotec LLC
Date: 12/29/14

8 Carpenters Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Nickate Property LLC
Seller: Gary D. Melen
Date: 01/09/15

24 Elm St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: MHFA
Seller: Michael L. Avery
Date: 12/30/14

24 Franklin St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $2,000,000
Buyer: Reed Apartments LLC
Seller: Mark A. Zaccheo
Date: 01/09/15

49 Greenfield Road
Greenfield, MA 01376
Amount: $2,128,922
Buyer: Store Master Funding 7
Seller: Argotec LLC
Date: 12/29/14

244 Leyden Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $177,900
Buyer: Kathleen M. Conti
Seller: Williams, Donald F., (Estate)
Date: 01/06/15

15 Lincoln St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Sara Jonsberg
Seller: Patricia P. Marcus
Date: 12/29/14

12 Mill St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Nickate Property LLC
Seller: Gary D. Melen
Date: 01/09/15

53 Silvio O. Conte Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $6,146,888
Buyer: Store Master Funding 7
Seller: Argotec LLC
Date: 12/29/14

LEVERETT

83 North Leverett Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Diane L. Gorenstein
Seller: Vincent M. Vacca
Date: 01/06/15

LEYDEN

72 Eden Trail
Leyden, MA 01337
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Muka
Seller: Lori Levesque
Date: 01/07/15

NORTHFIELD

39 Highland Ave.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: VanBro Co. LLC
Seller: Thomas W. Boisvert
Date: 12/30/14

SHELBURNE

19-23 Bridge St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Ancient Glacier LLC
Seller: James E. Singley
Date: 01/09/15

5-7 Grove St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $214,500
Buyer: John L. Occhialini
Seller: Chris E. Singley
Date: 12/31/14

SUNDERLAND

10 Bears Den Dr.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $201,000
Buyer: Glenn F. Brozo
Seller: William R. Brown
Date: 01/09/15

42 Montague Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Jonathan Pepyne
Seller: Robert J. Zajac
Date: 01/05/15

WHATELY

30 Long Plain Road
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $261,760
Buyer: Peter E. Newsum
Seller: Diane M. Burns
Date: 12/30/14

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

15 Federal St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: John J. Ragno
Seller: Donald Neill
Date: 12/30/14

96 Meadow St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Henry Kozloski
Seller: Lucier, Bruce, (Estate)
Date: 12/29/14

100 Oak Hill Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: Patrick M. Landers
Seller: Kris T. Lombardi
Date: 01/09/15

50 Pheasant Run Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Charles D. Stevens
Seller: Pedro N. Guzman
Date: 01/09/15

36 Senator Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $118,750
Buyer: Tomroc Holdings LLC
Seller: Scott A. Richards
Date: 01/08/15

863 South Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Oleg Bratnichenko
Seller: David W. Dunican
Date: 12/30/14

18 School St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Michael H. Woods
Seller: Paul G. Roy
Date: 12/30/14

649-651 Springfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Simon Realty LLC
Seller: Thomas J. Lockwood
Date: 12/31/14

635 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Robert T. Shepard
Seller: Mary Shepard
Date: 01/09/15

BLANDFORD

18 North Blandford Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Sabrina R. Kanner
Seller: Jack L. Hooper
Date: 01/05/15

BRIMFIELD

1550 Dunhamtown Brimfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Jenna J. Cuthbertson
Seller: Keith R. Lapierre
Date: 12/29/14

116 Wales Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: Darlene E. Rutkauskas
Seller: Lance W. Vandolson
Date: 12/30/14

CHESTER

270 Route 20
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $153,900
Buyer: Sarah L. Frost
Seller: Christopher J. Kanner
Date: 01/05/15

CHICOPEE

96 8th Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Miranda L. Pothier
Seller: Edward J. Allie
Date: 01/09/15

54 Armanella St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $149,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Sanchez
Seller: Kevin J. Czaplicki
Date: 01/05/15

131 Bay State Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Justinn D. Cassidy
Seller: Nu Way Homes Inc.
Date: 01/05/15

309 Casey Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $202,129
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Michael Horton
Date: 01/08/15

247 Chicopee St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $139,400
Buyer: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Seller: Wayne E. Butler
Date: 12/29/14

24 Dewey St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $116,000
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Bernard J. Grummell
Date: 01/09/15

84 Fedak Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Beswick
Seller: Major, Rita T., (Estate)
Date: 12/30/14

10 Juliette St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Roman V. Kouzmouk
Seller: Stacy L. Tassone
Date: 12/30/14

513 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Mercedes Alvarez
Seller: Robert R. Brassard
Date: 12/31/14

416 New Ludlow Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Wendy Burgos
Seller: Nathan K. Jedziniak
Date: 01/06/15

96 Savory Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $231,500
Buyer: David J. Matlasz
Seller: Irzyk, Mildred A., (Estate)
Date: 01/08/15

12 Searles St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Evan N Rosienski
Seller: Patricia L. Raymond
Date: 12/30/14

272 Springfield St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Antonio F. Tereso
Seller: Robert Borowiec
Date: 01/07/15

45 Whitin Ave.
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Donald H. Chapdelaine
Seller: Chapdelaine, L. A., (Estate)
Date: 12/30/14

EAST LONGMEADOW

21 Allen St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Tiffany L. Sanchez
Seller: Mahlon G. Cashman
Date: 12/29/14

127 Country Club Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $532,500
Buyer: Kate Laporte
Seller: Marc D. Giupponi
Date: 12/29/14

197 Dwight Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $142,500
Buyer: Trevor Devine
Seller: Stephen P. Wagner
Date: 12/31/14

255 Elm St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $145,152
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Catherine W. Potter
Date: 01/08/15

241 Kibbe Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Thomas E. Argenio
Seller: Moltenbrey Builders LLC
Date: 12/31/14

9 Lombard Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Country Development Corp.
Seller: James A. Rinaldi
Date: 12/29/14

19 Mereline Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Nicholas J. Harrington
Seller: Rosemary A. Martone
Date: 12/29/14

11 Sturbridge Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Gina E. Flanagan
Seller: Ralph D. August
Date: 12/31/14

GRANVILLE

1430 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Richard Deblois
Seller: Jesse P. Saltmarsh

HAMPDEN

337 Main St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: John P. Kertenis
Seller: Paul S. Jaquay
Date: 01/09/15

Wilbraham Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Rocky Mountain Wood Co.
Seller: Ramon Carando

HOLYOKE

5 Appleton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Ralph Thompson
Seller: Indy Group Inc.
Date: 12/30/14

167 Chestnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $149,000
Buyer: Joseph C. Cox
Seller: Stiebel Properties Inc.
Date: 01/08/15

107 Lincoln St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Garrett J. Lavoie
Seller: Michael J. Curtin
Date: 12/30/14

245 Madison Ave. West
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Samuel G. Stauder
Seller: Benjamin Snyder
Date: 01/05/15

216 Ontario Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $200,207
Buyer: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Seller: James G. Bliss
Date: 01/06/15

24 Scott Hollow Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $214,500
Buyer: Dominick M. Ciuffreda
Seller: Daniel J. Sroka
Date: 12/29/14

329 Walnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $125,110
Buyer: Alexis D. Giacometti
Seller: Amy L. Stpeter
Date: 01/09/15

10 Western View Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Michael J. Curtin
Seller: Xin Y. Liu
Date: 12/31/14

LONGMEADOW

31 Churchill Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $484,900
Buyer: Brennan Collins
Seller: Peter L. Copeland
Date: 01/07/15

40 Circle Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: John E. Tyler
Seller: Michael S. Desmarais
Date: 12/30/14

107 Colton Place
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Paul A. Sweitzer
Seller: Randall, Bruce W., (Estate)
Date: 12/30/14

134 Edgewood Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $302,500
Buyer: John C. Austin
Seller: Stephen L. Simons
Date: 12/29/14

567 Maple Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $276,500
Buyer: Brent S. Spruill
Seller: Douglas E. Bourie
Date: 01/06/15

511 Wolf Swamp Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $266,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Andrea Chase
Date: 01/08/15

LUDLOW

22 Arch St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Augusto Coelho
Seller: Stephen J. Kubik
Date: 01/07/15

55 Atlantic St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Shawn P. Crimmins
Seller: Timothy P. Crimmins
Date: 12/30/14

Avelino Way #10
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: A&A Goncalves RT
Seller: AMM Group LLC
Date: 12/31/14

Avelino Way #6
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: A&A Goncalves RT
Seller: AMM Group LLC
Date: 12/31/14

Avelino Way #9
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: A&A Goncalves RT
Seller: AMM Group LLC
Date: 12/31/14

33 Higher St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Alex Montagna
Seller: Alice A. Lavatori
Date: 12/30/14

MONSON

32 Ayers Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: James M. Veninger
Seller: Richard R. Loveless
Date: 01/06/15

19 Mechanic St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Gary L. Depace
Seller: Mark Depace
Date: 01/08/15

44 Stebbins Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Michael Beder
Seller: Duane W. Howard
Date: 12/30/14

PALMER

2115 Calkins Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Carmen S. Rivera
Seller: Barbara I. Benedetti
Date: 12/29/14

53 Crawford St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Erik M. Binczewski
Seller: Joseph S. Pisarski
Date: 01/08/15

331 Flynt St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Adam J. Skowyra
Seller: FNMA
Date: 12/29/14

139 Griffin St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Antonio Sebastiao
Seller: Christine L. Short
Date: 12/29/14

3145 Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $132,900
Buyer: Anthony B. Choquette
Date: 12/31/14

3147 Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $132,900
Buyer: Anthony B. Choquette
Seller: Joan D. Neiweem
Date: 12/31/14

SOUTHWICK

51 Lakemont St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Peter Molin
Seller: Penelope A. Fillion
Date: 01/02/15

39 Miller Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Joshua A. Miller
Seller: Pamela L. Pryor
Date: 12/31/14

275 South Longyard Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Gilmore
Seller: Walter N Brach
Date: 01/09/15

SPRINGFIELD

85 Amos Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Meera Adhikari
Seller: Lachenauer LLC
Date: 01/08/15

218 Arcadia Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Luca V. Mineo
Seller: John Kirzec
Date: 01/07/15

Arcadia Blvd. (NWS) #31
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Luca V. Mineo
Seller: John Kirzec
Date: 01/07/15

120 Atwater Road
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Elizabeth S. Belle-Isle
Seller: Julie Rypysc
Date: 12/29/14

87 Avocado St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $1,750,000
Buyer: Avocado Street LLC
Seller: Captiva Realty Inc.
Date: 12/29/14

281-285 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: CIG 2 LLC
Seller: Jinrong Properties LLC
Date: 01/07/15

89 Berkshire Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $117,150
Buyer: Eduardo E. Padilla
Seller: Kenneth R. Gagne
Date: 12/30/14

11-15 Bevier St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Paul Modelski
Seller: Roman Boiko
Date: 01/02/15

61 Bliss St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $6,025,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: 73 State Street LLC
Date: 01/02/15

197 Dwight Road
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $142,500
Buyer: Trevor Devine
Seller: Stephen P. Wagner
Date: 12/31/14

82 Dwight Road
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Amanda Bligh
Seller: Stanley Russin
Date: 12/31/14

49-51 East Hooker St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Yellowbrick Property LLC
Seller: Yellow Brick Property LLC
Date: 12/31/14

207 Edendale St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $122,772
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Gerald J. Shannon
Date: 01/06/15

177 Ellsworth Ave. #68
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $224,500
Buyer: Lowell T. Manning
Seller: Nu Way Homes Inc.
Date: 12/30/14

18 Freeman Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Yellowbrick Property LLC
Seller: Yellow Brick Property LLC
Date: 12/31/14

341 Gillette Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Thomas M. Ashe
Seller: Walter A. Mayo
Date: 01/06/15

172 Gresham St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Zachary J. Lyman
Seller: Ronald Vanbeek
Date: 01/07/15

37 Groveland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $177,710
Buyer: Pennymac Holdings LLC
Seller: Gregory Moultrie
Date: 01/07/15

52-62 Howard St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $6,025,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: 73 State Street LLC
Date: 01/02/15

57 Howes St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Peter Mancuso
Seller: Regan, Michael J., (Estate)
Date: 12/30/14

10 Ingraham Ter.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: J. Norbert Properties LLC
Seller: Hampden Bank
Date: 01/02/15

72-74 Lebanon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $118,500
Buyer: Gerardo A. Colon
Seller: Maribel Delrio
Date: 01/09/15

1126 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: Dino A. Isotti
Date: 01/02/15

1132-1142 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $4,000,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: Joo B. Lee
Date: 01/02/15

643 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: SDS LLC
Seller: 3 Pointer LLC
Date: 12/29/14

75 Market St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: SH Realty LLC
Seller: Harrison Avenue RT
Date: 01/09/15

184 Mill St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $171,000
Buyer: George A. Spence
Seller: United Way Of Pioneer Valley
Date: 12/30/14

135 Oak Hollow Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $243,000
Buyer: Mary N Rowe
Seller: John M. Rossini
Date: 12/30/14

36 Pinecrest Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Vito M. Dellaera
Seller: Joan P. Learned
Date: 01/06/15

28-30 Olmsted Dr.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Millicent Lardi
Seller: Andrew W. Smith
Date: 12/30/14

18 Riverton Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Edmund M. Leduke
Seller: Justinn D. Cassidy
Date: 12/30/14

195 Saint James Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Michael W. Walsh
Seller: Scott C. Powers
Date: 01/07/15

875 South Branch Pkwy.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $189,900
Buyer: Diana Estrada
Seller: City View Property Services
Date: 12/30/14

73 State St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $6,025,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: 73 State Street LLC
Date: 01/02/15

79-83 State St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,237,500
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: 79 State Street LLC
Date: 01/02/15

160 Taylor St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: R&B Karrasch LLC
Seller: Francis S. Mercier
Date: 01/06/15

129 Westminster St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $134,465
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Anthony W. Bosworth
Date: 01/08/15

128 Woodland Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: John E. Kaloroumakis
Seller: Edward F. Barbeau
Date: 01/05/15

TOLLAND

13 Lakeside Dr.
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Denis Dilallo
Seller: Debra A. Desmond
Date: 01/09/15

173 Owls Nest Lane
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Allen E. Nathan
Seller: Judith A. France
Date: 12/30/14

WALES

2 Cordially Colony
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $177,500
Buyer: Eugene Tosetti
Seller: Eileen F. Kniep
Date: 12/31/14

119 Main St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Jason A. Lisiecki
Seller: Brenda A. Laflamme
Date: 01/02/15

54 Monson Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $140,500
Buyer: Kevin M. Brunell
Seller: Country Bank For Savings
Date: 01/08/15

WEST SPRINGFIELD

55 Circuit Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Westside 55 Circuit LLC
Seller: HR Massachusetts LLC
Date: 12/31/14

1089 Elm St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Dog Alley RE LLC
Seller: Andrew J. Pignatare
Date: 01/02/15

120 Great Plains Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $245,200
Buyer: James F. Mello
Seller: William J. Pasternak
Date: 12/29/14

559 Main St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $139,263
Buyer: Nationastar Mortgage LLC
Seller: Frank Bonet
Date: 01/09/15

25 Orange St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $201,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Wood
Seller: Donald A. Rivers
Date: 12/29/14

38 Queen Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Tiana Phienboupha
Seller: Kristen S. Dominique
Date: 01/09/15

67 Trotters Walk
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Paul M. Bardwell
Seller: Jeffrey D. Jutsum
Date: 01/02/15

23 Windsor St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Brenda X. Chavez-Salas
Seller: Jacob N Dushane
Date: 12/30/14

WESTFIELD

13 Charles St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Franklin E. Tompkins
Seller: Mark G. Thompson
Date: 12/29/14

1526 East Mountain Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Michael D. Gonnello
Seller: Paul F. Kudryk
Date: 12/30/14

65 Laro Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Jack L. Hooper
Seller: Kelly M. Schetzel
Date: 01/05/15

107 Northwest Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Dawn M. Gahran
Seller: Raymond J. Salois
Date: 12/29/14

5 Northridge Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $191,500
Buyer: Kathryn V. Roberts
Seller: Frazier, Owczarski S., (Estate)
Date: 01/07/15

Root Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Frank A. Demarinis
Seller: Noreen Botticello
Date: 01/09/15

120 Skyline Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Pavel Yakovenko
Seller: Peter E. Flynn
Date: 12/31/14

480 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Elite Contracting Services
Seller: Rui M. Baltazar
Date: 01/08/15

Wildflower Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Jessica L. Mongeau
Seller: Richard B. Kramer
Date: 01/08/15

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

217 Aubinwood Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $399,000
Buyer: Aaron D. Osborne
Seller: Philippe G. Galaski
Date: 01/09/15

471 Bay Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Barrett Mully
Seller: Obediah D. Gibson
Date: 01/09/15

91 Cross Break
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $197,000
Buyer: Kebede Gashie
Seller: Carla Clason-Hook
Date: 12/30/14

669 East Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Dana Parsons
Seller: Virginia L. Pierce
Date: 12/30/14

27 Greenleaves Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $224,000
Buyer: Irene S. Drummond
Seller: Amhad Development Corp.
Date: 01/09/15

405 Pine St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Kimberly D. Tremblay
Seller: Wesley J. Cembalisty
Date: 01/05/15

299 West St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Buyer: Matthew Wolaver
Seller: Meredith G. Troy
Date: 01/05/15

BELCHERTOWN

Allen Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $373,246
Buyer: Matthew T. Baird
Seller: Donald R. Besancon INT
Date: 01/09/15

440 Chauncey Walker St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Cheri A. Ulrich
Seller: Arthur R. Vilinskis
Date: 12/31/14

10 Depot St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $243,000
Buyer: Jonathan E. Blake
Seller: Joseph Cox
Date: 01/09/15

280 Granby Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $177,500
Buyer: Joanna G. Mull
Seller: Richard M. Grab
Date: 01/06/15

2 Rimrock Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $288,869
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank
Date: 01/02/15

CHESTERFIELD

Bofat Hill Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Nature Conservancy
Seller: Peter F. Lafogg
Date: 12/30/14

EASTHAMPTON

11 Brook St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $224,000
Buyer: Margaret Goller
Seller: Jeremy N. Rapoza
Date: 01/09/15

19 Kingsberry Way
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $394,000
Buyer: Susan M. Rapoza
Seller: Crown Meadow Corp.
Date: 01/09/15

24 Knipfer Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $174,500
Buyer: Marcie L. Cormier
Seller: Edward A. Lemanski
Date: 12/31/14

57 Maple St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $249,500
Buyer: Heather A. Zottoli
Seller: Samuel G. Stauder
Date: 01/05/15

14 Russell Lane
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Stephen L. Zimora
Seller: Margaret Goller
Date: 01/09/15

GOSHEN

39 Lake Dr.
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Joshua Silver
Seller: Todd K. Thompson
Date: 12/30/14

GRANBY

67 Cold Hill
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Robert Cannon
Seller: Michael C. Karkut
Date: 01/09/15

36 High St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Mayra D. Jesus
Seller: Michael W. Simon
Date: 12/31/14

125 Maximilian Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $458,030
Buyer: Peter J. Gaj
Seller: East State Street NT
Date: 01/09/15

HADLEY

Hadley University Park #2
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: 23-27 LLC
Seller: Westmass Area Development Corp.
Date: 12/30/14

122 West St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $351,378
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: JJS Capital Investment
Date: 01/06/15

NORTHAMPTON

422 Acrebrook Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $174,900
Buyer: Dara Virks
Seller: Stephen J. Tremblay
Date: 12/29/14

31 Country Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Daniel A. Philips
Seller: Frances P. Hack
Date: 01/07/15

311 Damon Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Edward J. Kubasek
Seller: Dolores A. Kubasek
Date: 01/05/15

191 Spring St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Keith A. Tardy
Seller: Luke A. Strzegowski
Date: 12/31/14

83 West St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Smith College
Seller: Raymond H. Niles
Date: 12/29/14

SOUTH HADLEY

17 Cypress Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Derek J. Lauder
Seller: Michelle A. Boisvert
Date: 12/30/14

8 Dove Hill
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: C. E. Thomson
Seller: Michael R. Sobon
Date: 01/05/15

35 Ferry St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $309,000
Buyer: Eric Wilson
Seller: Mayra L. Dejesus
Date: 12/29/14

12 Horseshoe Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Micah W. Maloney
Seller: Michael S. Larson
Date: 01/09/15

33 Lamb St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $900,000
Buyer: Curran O’Brien Realty LLC
Seller: William W. Ryder
Date: 12/31/14

8 Lois Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Nicole Kwiatkowski
Seller: Xuan Li
Date: 12/30/14

31 Mountainview Dr.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $142,464
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Alan F. Trudeau
Date: 01/09/15

54 Prospect St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Meredith O. Duval
Seller: Julio C. Ruiz
Date: 01/02/15

142 Stony Brook Village
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $324,000
Buyer: Clarissa G. Bak
Seller: Whispering Pines at Root
Date: 12/30/14

SOUTHAMPTON

33 Bissonnette Circle
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Robert A. Cestola
Seller: F&G Development Corp.
Date: 01/02/15

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

Akpan, Effiong Isaac
358 Park St. #134
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/14/15

Barszewski, Daniel J.
89 Maple St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/15

Brunelle, Robert
140 Rolling Green Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/02/15

Brusa, Jacqueline M.
a/k/a Lauzier, Jacqueline M.
342 Southwick Road #96
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/09/15

Building Blocks Family Church
Kirby, Eileen E.
2 Los Angeles St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/13/15

Camilleri, Donna M.
14 Upland Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/06/15

Carney, Geraldine
87 Narragansett Blvd.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/10/15

Comstock, Lon A.
250 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/08/15

Conway, Scott M.
Conway, Stacey M.
20 Whitin Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/10/15

Curran, Robert John
P.O. Box 2287
Westfield, MA 01086
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/15

Donovan, Jason B.
Donovan, Ashley V.
a/k/a Church, Ashley Varee
166 Line St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/14

Dyer, Joseph P.
P.O. Box 286
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/08/15

Estrada, Ernie
802 Newbury St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/15/15

Galecki, John
Galecki, Melaine Rose
51 Basket St.
Hunington, MA 01050
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/15

Genesis Barber Shop
Izzy’s Barber Studio
Acosta, Isidro
Acosta, Regina
P.O. Box 672
Westfield, MA 01086
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/14

Gordon, Asneth Tania
35 Noel St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/07/15

Goshea, Christopher R.
Goshea, Katie M.
a/k/a Lachance, Katie
95 Vermont St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/14/15

Herrick, Lisa Marie
66 Gates Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/15

Kohl, Leonora S.
29 High St., Apt. 2
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/01/15

LaFlamme, Daniel A.
PO Box 323
Leeds, MA 01053
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/15

Ledoux, Gerald R.
Ledoux, Susan L.
PO Box 323
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/14

Leonard, Lennie L.
76 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/06/15

Luciano, Damaris I.
a/k/a Reyes, Damaris I.
246 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/06/15

Matlasz, Jennifer M.
340 Dale St., Unit C
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/07/15

Phillips, James R.
81 Woodcrest Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/13/15

Regnier, Dolores J.
72 Worcester St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/06/15

Rider, Scott Anthony
316 Park St. #5
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/15

Sena, Gilbert M.
28 Kingsberry Way
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/12/15

Sobers, Nicola Susan
934 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/05/15

St. Pierre, Fawne M.
a/k/a White, Fawne M.
30 St. Pierre Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/14

Steenburgh Real Estate
Steenburgh, Michael A.
Steenburgh, Susan J.
182 East St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 01/05/15

Voutas, Steven
Voutas, Maureen
11 Knollwood St
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/12/15

Wellspeak, David B.
1177 Elm St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 01/06/15

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2015.

CHICOPEE

B Big Global
211 Poplar St.
Bright Ukandu

Buns-on-Wheels
522 Main St.
Ana Guelhermino

Chicopee Building Supply
14 Exchange St.
Michael Chamberland

Cotton Mill Sound
165 Front St.
John Daigle

Fruit Fair
398 Front St.
Shailesh Patel

Head Quarters
852 Memorial Dr.
Mark Mushenko

Papa John’s
610 Broadway St.
Cary Rivest

HOLYOKE

Cara Foods
14 Corser St.
John Kennedy

Holyoke Furniture Outlet
354-356 High St.
Alfredo Improta

Salon 413
1735 Northampton St.
Stacie Anne Alicea

Zerorez Pioneer Valley
1-3 Thorpe Ave.
ZRPV Corporation

LUDLOW

Faustination
59 Szlosek Road
Daniel Faustino

Open Door Café
247 Cady St.
Arlindo Alves

SDI Auto Repair
575 East St.
Vanda Barros

NORTHAMPTON

Boomerang Booksellers
139 Federal St.
Mark Brumberg

Firestaff Homes
351 Pleasant St.
Gary Bennett

Fitness Together
18 Strong Ave.
Jessica Phaneuf

Keggeroo Creative Consulting
53 Clark Ave.
Kenneth Geiger

Ohmstyle Living
43 Finn St.
Allison Cook

Panacea Salon
28 Pleasant St.
Patricia Britt

Swing Graphics
36 Market St.
Gregory Perham Jr.

Valley Nibbler
80 Damon Road
Gwen Connors

Valley Stress Reduction
30 Locust St.
Ellen Kaufman

Western Construction Services
275 Hatfield St.
John S. Henderson-Adams

PALMER

C & G Services
8 Crest St.
Marie Day

Friendly’s
1519 North Main St.
Friendly’s, LLC

Walnut Street Café
8 Walnut St.
Doris Theodore

SPRINGFIELD

Lizet Land Photography
219 Gifford St.
Lizet Land

Luxury Nails Salon
1220 Main St.
Vy J. Nguyen

Mommy’s
324 Wilbraham Road
Henry Ogirri

Oriental Gift and More
171 Boston Road
Chun Yang

Plink Plunk Play
63 Lakevilla Ave.
Rita F. Bartholomew

Ray’s Auto Repair
3 Fountain St.
Ramon L. Rivas

Serenev Affordable Tax
67 Suffolk St.
Angela D. Martin

Superior Home Health
83 Hazen St.
Shari Anglin

SV Saturno Cleaning Services
413 Nottingham St.
Marcos Villegas

The Sports Shack
152 Main St.
Sandra A. Babbie

Tower Convenience Store
10 Chestnut St.
Zahid Farooqui

Tranquility Day Spa
1655 Boston Road
Charles Tran

Universal Caulking
42 Kimberly Ave.
Anthony M. Dewdney

Vape Religion
526 Sumner Ave.
Tam T. Le

WESTFIELD

Clean by Kim
207 Northwest Road
Kimberly J. Gamache

Del Photo & Craft Works
46 Spruce St.
Michael C. Delmonte

New England Winners Club
720 Russell Road
Vadim Lezhnyak

Rycon Renovation
41 St. Dennis St.
Sirahei Ryhal

Western Mass Excavation Corporation
30 Sunset Dr.
Dale Unsderfer

Western Mass Pan Project
76 Broad St.
Jonathan Adams

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Clarion Motel
1080 Riverdale St.
Shailesh Patel

Friendly’s
1094 Riverdale St.
Catherine Smith

Knight’s Inn
1557 Riverdale St.
Anil Rana

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

Santana’s Kung-Fu Studio
452 Main St.
Maria E. Santana

Welcome Inn
2041 Riverdale St.
Patel Pravinshai

Incorporations

By
Departments Incorporations

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

AMHERST

Hangar of Greenfield Inc., 55 University Dr., Amherst, MA 01002. Harold Tramazzo, same. Franchise restaurant.
 
EAST BROOKFIELD

1 Stop Transportation Inc., 119 Oakwood Dr., East Brookfield, MA 01515. Samantha Marie Cox, 6 St. Clair Road, Brimfield, MA 01010. Interstate and intrastate transporting, towing, and storage of vehicles.
 
HOLYOKE

Christian Union Chaplaincy Commission, 349 High St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Juan Fernandez, 210 Mountain View Dr., Holyoke, MA 01040. Organized to establish a chaplaincy ministry, to be a governing entity which will establish governance and polity, oversee activities, enforce common doctrines, and provide general administrative and spiritual supervision for other organizations which will themselves be organized and operated exclusively for educational, charitable, and/or religious purposes.
 
LUDLOW

Duru Inc., 481 Center St., Center St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Aziz Turan, 96 Bluebird Circle, Ludlow, MA 01056. Full-service restaurant.
 
SOUTH HADLEY

Anthony Reynolds Sr. Memorial Fund Inc., 38 River Road, South Hadley, MA 01075. Anthony Reynolds Jr., same. Establishing scholarships for graduating high school students who wish to pursue the field of medicine or medical sciences.
 
SPRINGFIELD

Bay Auto Sales Corp., 784 Bay St. Springfield, MA 01109. Argenis Ramos, same. Auto sales and service.
 
Elser Builders Inc., 35 Glenwood Ave., Pittsfield, MA 01021. David Elser, same. Construction, commercial and residential.
 
Fast Lane Auto Sales & Service Inc., 18 Berkshire Ave., Springfield, MA 01109. Noemi De Leon, 56 Malden St., Springfield, MA 01108. Used automobile sales and service.
 
WEST SPRINGFIELD

A.M.P.M. Express Inc., 284 Main St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Murad-John Osmanli, same. Trucking business.
 
WESTFIELD

Indian Motorcycle Riders Group of Springfield Inc., 962 Southampton Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Ed Villareal, same. Non-profit organization with the primary objectives to promote the Indian Motorcycle brand and attend as a club at least two charitable / benefit rides a year.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

Federal $10M Grant Will Help Improve Long Island Sound
GREENFIELD — The Connecticut River Watershed Council (CRWC) is one of seven partners receiving a $10 million federal grant funded through USDA’s Regional Conservation Partnership Program. This new project brings together seven partners to improve the health of Long Island Sound. The funding will be matched dollar for dollar by other local, state, and private funding sources. Excess nutrients have been identified as the primary driver of hypoxic conditions (lack of oxygen) in Long Island Sound and are also impacting upland water resources within the watershed, which encompasses areas of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. This project will develop a comprehensive, whole-farm, management-certainty program for farmers in the area and use both working lands and easement programs to improve soil health and nutrient management, establish community resiliency areas with a focus on enhancing riparian areas, and institute a land-protection program to protect agricultural and forestry areas. “The council is very pleased to be one of the many partners on this important project to improve the health of both the Connecticut River basin and Long Island Sound,” said CRWC Executive Director Andrew Fisk. “Funding will allow CRWC to continue working with landowners on restoration projects on their land that will improve our rivers and protect their investment in productive farm and forest land.” The Connecticut River contributes more than 70% of the freshwater to Long Island Sound and plays an important role in the health of the sound. “We are proud to be working with landowners to help them do their part to restore and protect the public’s water,” noted Fisk. “Many individuals working together across the entire watershed will have a great impact to improve the health of our rivers and Long Island Sound.” The Connecticut River Watershed Council works to protect the watershed from source to sea. To learn more, visit www.ctriver.org.

Construction Employment Increases in 40 States
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Construction firms added jobs in 40 states and the District of Columbia between December 2013 and December 2014, while construction employment increased in 38 states and D.C. between November and December, according to an analysis of Labor Department data by Associated General Contractors of America. “Part of the reason for the positive December construction employment figures was the exceptionally harsh weather in much of December 2013 and November 2014 and milder-than-normal weather in December 2014,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Nevertheless, the underlying trend is very positive, with construction employment expanding at more than double the rate for total non-farm payroll jobs.” Texas added more new construction jobs (47,500 jobs, 7.7%) between December 2013 and December 2014 than any other state. Other states adding a high number of new construction jobs for the past 12 months included Florida (34,300 jobs, 8.9%), California (26,000 jobs, 4.0%), Illinois (20,200 jobs, 10.6%) and Washington (14,100 jobs, 9.5%). North Dakota (25.7%, 8,300 jobs) added the highest percentage of new construction jobs during the past year, followed by Utah (13.4%, 10,100 jobs), Wisconsin (12.7%, 12,400 jobs), and Arkansas (12.6%, 5,800 jobs). Ten states shed construction jobs during the past 12 months. West Virginia lost the highest percentage (-9.1%, -3,000 jobs). Other states that lost a high percentage of jobs include Mississippi (-7.5%, -4,000 jobs), Hawaii (-4.5%, -1,400 jobs), and Arizona (-3.4%, -4,300 jobs). Arizona lost the most construction jobs between December 2013 and December 2014, followed by Mississippi, West Virginia, and Ohio (-2,500 jobs, -1.3%). Thirty-eight states and the District of Columbia added construction jobs between November and December. New York (6,400 jobs, 2.0%) added the most jobs, followed by Illinois (6,000 jobs, 2.9%), Texas (5,100 jobs, 0.8%), and North Carolina (4,100 jobs, 2.3%). Association officials said the latest construction employment figures are consistent with the optimism many contractors expressed in the association’s recently released annual “Construction Hiring and Business Outlook.” According to the outlook, 80% of contractors report plans to add new construction jobs in 2015. In addition, a majority of contractors expect demand for most construction-market segments this year to grow. “The construction industry appears on track to add many new construction jobs in 2015,” said Stephen Sandherr, the association’s CEO.

BCBS Grants to Support Care for Vulnerable Populations
BOSTON — Individuals with behavioral health and other medical issues are among the highest-need, most complex patients in the healthcare system but rarely receive care that integrates both aspects of treatment. The Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation’s new, $1.3 million grant program, called Fostering Effective Integration of Behavioral Health and Primary Care, will support 10 organizations — including one in Western Mass., the Center for Human Development — that are currently implementing collaborative, co-located, and integrated service models for patients with a range of medical and behavioral-health needs, including support for their families. The National Co-morbidity Survey Replication shows that 68% of adults with a severe behavioral-health disorder have at least one chronic medical condition, and 29% of adults with a chronic medical condition have serious mental illness. Moreover, those with a mental illness live far shorter lives than those without, partly due to treatable medical conditions and inadequate access to medical care. Better coordination of primary care and behavioral health — including early identification, timely and regular treatment, and rehabilitation and recovery supports — is important to improving health care outcomes and potentially controlling costs for people with behavioral-health needs, said Audrey Shelto, president of the BCBS of Massachusetts Foundation. “We believe the time is now to invest in and evaluate programs that have experience providing primary care and also treating mental-health and substance-use disorders to help define what truly constitutes an effective integrated model of care.” The grantee organizations represent a variety of provider types — community health centers, community-based behavioral-health centers, and hospital-based programs — located throughout the entire state. “We are thrilled to be working with some of the most experienced healthcare providers in the Commonwealth and look forward to sharing information and collaborating on this critical issue,” said Shelto. The local grantee, the Center for Human Development (CHD), has created a project in partnership with two health centers to provide integrated care to seriously mentally ill adults and individuals with substance-use disorders. The health centers — Caring Health Center of Springfield and Holyoke Health Center — provide integrated primary care, care management and wellness services, while the Western MA Recovery Learning Community provides peer-guided wellness groups and peer specialists. The largest cluster of patients is within the Department of Mental Health-funded Community-Based Flexible Supports program, identified as ‘super-utilizers’ with high rates of avoidable ED visits. The program provides primary-care services to people with serious mental illness on site at a CHD community mental-health center, with a focus on patients with diabetes, pre-metabolic syndrome, and high risk for cardiovascular disease. Chronic-disease management and wellness programs are provided by primary-care nurses and peer specialists, and patients involved with the integrated care program experience reduced wait times when seeking medical care at the respective health centers. The focus of the foundation’s one-year grants is the evaluation and assessment of integrated-care programs that demonstrate the greatest likelihood of effectiveness across a range of domains such as increased access, improved outcomes, greater patient engagement, and reduced costs. The foundation will document the success factors, barriers, and challenges faced by grantees with the intent of making a longer-term investment in promising, replicable models in the future. For more information, visit www.bluecrossmafoundation.org.

Business Confidence Index Soars in 2014
BOSTON — The Associated Industries of Massachusetts Business Confidence Index ended 2014 at 57.3, 7.1 points above last December’s level. “This is the index’s highest reading since July 2007, before the Great Recession, and it concludes the best quarter since that period,” said Raymond Torto, chair of AIM’s Board of Economic Advisors (BEA) and lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Design. “There is reason to believe, moreover, that this upwelling in confidence will prove more lasting than the increase of early 2012, which was undone by fiscal conflict in Washington.” In 2014, Torto noted, “business confidence survived a stress test of economic contraction in the first quarter, then gained in eight of the last 10 months of the year. Fundamentals are looking much better — unemployment is down and job creation is running strong nationally and in Massachusetts, which shows up in rising consumer confidence; the federal deficit and the trade deficit are shrinking; and, of course, the stock market has done well. Despite significant areas of weakness in the global economy, Massachusetts employers have ample cause to be optimistic.” The AIM Index, based on a survey of Massachusetts employers, has appeared monthly since July 1991. It is calculated on a 100-point scale, with 50 as neutral; a reading above 50 is positive, while below 50 is negative. The index reached its historic high of 68.5 on two occasions in 1997-98, and its all-time low of 33.3 in February 2009. The sub-indices based on selected questions or categories of respondent experienced a mix of gains and losses from November to December, but all were up from a year before. The Massachusetts Index, assessing business conditions within the Commonwealth, added one point on the month to 56.1, and the U.S. Index of national business conditions was up four-tenths to 50.1. “This is the third time since the recession that U.S. Index reached 50, but so far it has not held that level,” said BEA member Paul Bolger, president of Massachusetts Capital Resource Co. “Respondents with 100 or fewer employees still tend to rate national conditions negatively, while larger firms are on the positive side. Compared to last December, the state indicator was up 9.1 points, while its national counterpart gained 5.3 points.” The Current Index, which assesses overall business conditions at the time of the survey, was up 1.2 points to 56.2, while the Future Index, measuring expectations for six months out, shed one-tenth to 58.4. The annual gains were 7.6 and 6.8, respectively.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook Departments

Financial-success Center to Open at Holyoke Community College

HOLYOKE — Thrive, a one-stop financial-success center for local college students and residents, staged a grand-opening celebration on Feb. 4 in the Frost building at Holyoke Community College. Thrive, a collaborative effort between HCC, PeoplesBank, and United Way of Pioneer Valley, will offer financial literacy and coaching, workforce-development services, and public-benefits screening and enrollment. Thrive will provide a valuable support system for anyone in the community (along with necessary skills to achieve long-term financial goals), but especially college students, who may be experiencing financial independence for the first time in their lives. “I don’t think it’s any secret that most college students don’t have a lot of money and that those who choose to attend community college often do so because of its affordability and their own financial limitations,” said HCC President William Messner. “What we see, year after year, is that managing money is a huge challenge for students. That financial anxiety is an issue that often impedes their academic performance and sometimes even leads them to drop out of school. Anything we can do to eliminate or at least reduce those financial concerns is going to help our students succeed in the classroom. Healthy financial skills will aid them not only during their college days, but also after they move on, so we are very happy to provide this new resource here at HCC not only for our students, but for members of the community who might also be facing financial issues.” PeoplesBank has been working to increase financial literacy for years by supporting seminars in the community and teaching personal finance in area public schools. “Academic excellence and community vibrancy are core principles of our corporate-responsibility efforts,” said Douglas Bowen, president and CEO of PeoplesBank. “Supporting Thrive gives us the opportunity to expand on our financial-literacy education efforts. It also provides our associates with another way to volunteer to improve the community and help our future workforce by teaching classes at Thrive.” Financial literacy is also one of the four impact areas that United Way of Pioneer Valley focuses its fund-raising efforts on, because of the long-lasting results that can be attained with the proper skills and training. “We’re here to help hardworking families build assets for a successful future,” said Dora Robinson, president and CEO of United Way of Pioneer Valley. “Our partnership with HCC and PeoplesBank has made it possible for our community to ‘Thrive.’”

First Connecticut Bancorp Reports Q4 Earnings
FARMINGTON, Conn. — First Connecticut Bancorp Inc., the holding company for Farmington Bank, reported net income of $3.1 million, or $0.21 diluted earnings per share, for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2014, compared to net income of $2.5 million, or $0.17 diluted earnings per share, in the linked quarter. Diluted earnings per share were $0.07 for the fourth quarter of 2013. The bank had net income of $9.3 million, or $0.62 diluted earnings per share, for the year ended Dec. 31, 2014, compared to net income of $3.7 million, or $0.24 diluted earnings per share, for the year ended Dec. 31, 2013. “Despite the low-interest-rate environment which continues to apply pressure to the margin, we continue to generate improved earnings based on our organic growth strategy, coupled with our strategic steps of reducing operating cost through process improvement initiatives,” said John Patrick Jr., First Connecticut Bancorp’s chairman, president, and CEO. “I am extremely proud of our team for their efforts in 2014, as we have once again prudently grown our asset and deposit base, deepening our market share where we operate. Their effort is evidenced in the improvement in our operating efficiency and annual EPS growth of 158%. We continue to be pleased with the progress of our expansion into Western Massachusetts, and will be opening two branch offices in that market in 2015, as previously announced.” Also in the fourth-quarter report, net interest income increased $410,000 to $16.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to $16.0 million in the linked quarter, and increased $2.1 million or 14% compared to fourth quarter of 2013. On a core basis, net interest income increased $160,000 in the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to the linked quarter. Strong organic loan growth continued during the quarter, as total loans increased $88.4 million to $2.1 billion at Dec. 31, 2014 and increased $318.7 million or 18% from a year ago. Non-interest expense to average assets was 2.39% in the fourth quarter of 2014 compared to 2.46% in the linked quarter and 2.80% in the fourth quarter of 2013. Tangible book value per share was $14.57 compared to $14.56 on a linked quarter basis and $14.11 at Dec. 31, 2013. Checking accounts grew by 2.8% or 1,242 net new accounts in the fourth quarter of 2014 and by 13.1% or 5,248 net new accounts compared to Dec. 31, 2013. Asset quality improved, as loan delinquencies 30 days and greater decreased slightly to 0.75% of total loans at Dec. 31, 2014, compared to 0.78% at Sept. 30, 2014 and 0.85% at Dec. 31, 2013. Non-accrual loans represented 0.72% of total loans, compared to 0.76% of total loans on a linked quarter basis and 0.81% of total loans at Dec. 31, 2013. The allowance for loan losses represented 0.89% of total loans at Dec. 31, 2014 compared to 0.91% at Sept. 30, 2014 and 1.01% at Dec. 31, 2013. Finally, the company paid a cash dividend of $0.05 per share on Dec. 15, 2014, and paid a cash dividend of $0.17 per share for the year, an increase of $0.05 compared to the prior year. This marks the 13th consecutive quarter the company has paid a dividend since it became a public company on June 29, 2011.

Two Local Banks Boost Capital Campaign for Sr. Caritas Cancer Center
SPRINGFIELD — Mercy Medical Center announced that Westfield Bank and Chicopee Savings Bank Charitable Foundation have pledged gifts of $150,000 and $100,000, respectively, to “Transforming Cancer Care,” the capital campaign for the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center. Westfield Bank’s gift is particularly significant because it reflects the largest corporate gift in the history of the bank. “Whether we like it or not, every one of us will be touched by cancer, directly or indirectly,” said James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank. “As an employer and as a community member, I recognize the importance of outstanding hospital care for the health of our community. Supporting this expansion is the right thing for economic, humanitarian, and personal reasons. We’re proud to be a part of this worthy project and encourage other area businesses to support the expansion as well.” Added Chicopee Savings Bank President Bill Wagner, “Chicopee Savings Bank and its charitable foundation have consistently supported the Sisters of Providence Health System and their various efforts. We have long been impressed by the organization’s mission to serve all members of our community. Cancer affects people across the socio-economic spectrum. This expansion will lift the level of care at Mercy to an even higher level, while expanding Mercy’s ability to meet the growing cancer-care needs of this community.” Mercy Medical Center recently launched a capital campaign to support the $15 million expansion of the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center. Specifically, the funds will be used to consolidate all cancer services into a single, unified space and meet increased demand for outpatient cancer services. In the past two years, the number of patients receiving chemotherapy at the Sr. Caritas Cancer Center has increased by more than 200%. By 2022, the need for outpatient cancer services is expected to grow by 26%. “Through the years, the banking community has been at the forefront of supporting the Sisters of Providence Health System,” said Diane Dukette, vice president of Fund Development for the Sisters of Providence Health System. “Once again, they are among the first to step forward to support a critical community need. We are grateful for their ongoing generosity and commitment to the people we serve.”

United Financial Bancorp Announces Q4 Results
GLASTONBURY, Conn. — United Financial Bancorp Inc., the holding company for United Bank, announced results for the quarter and year ended Dec. 31, 2014. These results represent the second full fiscal quarter as the combined United Financial (merger of Rockville Financial Inc. and legacy United Financial Bancorp Inc.). Rockville was the legal acquirer in the merger of equals with legacy United in a transaction that closed on April 30, 2014, and Rockville changed its name to United Financial Bancorp Inc. at that time. The company had net income of $1.4 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2014, compared to Rockville’s net income of $1.8 million, or $0.07 per diluted share, for the quarter ended Dec. 31, 2013. Operating net income for the fourth quarter of 2014 was $8.3 million (non-GAAP), or $0.16 per diluted share, adjusted for $10.6 million (pre-tax) of expenses related to the merger, $3.4 million (pre-tax) net positive impact of the amortization and accretion of the purchase accounting adjustments (or fair value adjustments) as a result of the merger, $2.6 million (pre-tax) net adjustment for the company’s announced branch-optimization program, and $59,000 (pre-tax) net loss on sales of securities. Operating net income for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2014 was $10.4 million (non-GAAP), or $0.20 per diluted share, adjusted for $4.5 million (pre-tax) of expenses related to the merger, $3.8 million (pre-tax) net positive impact of the amortization and accretion of the purchase accounting adjustments (or fair value adjustments) as a result of the merger, and $430,000 (pre-tax) net gains on sales of securities. Operating net income for the prior-year period was $3.3 million (non-GAAP), or $0.13 per diluted share, adjusted for $2.1 million (pre-tax) of expenses related to the merger. Net income for the year ended Dec. 31, 2014 was $6.8 million, or $0.16 per diluted share, and declined from $14.2 million or $0.54 per diluted share for the year ended Dec. 31, 2013. Operating net income of $26.7 million (non-GAAP), or $0.62 per diluted share for the year ended Dec. 31, 2014 increased from $16.3 million or $0.62 per diluted share for the year ended Dec. 31, 2013. Adjustments to operating net income from GAAP net income are largely related to the merger with legacy United and are itemized in the reconciliation of non-GAAP measures. “As we close the books on 2014, I am pleased to announce that we reported impressive organic loan growth, successfully completed the conversion to one core operating system, and have materially achieved the company’s objectives related to eliminating redundant expenses by the end of the fourth quarter,” said William Crawford IV, CEO of United Financial Bancorp Inc. and United Bank. “Looking forward to 2015, the operational environment will be challenging; however, I am confident that our strategy to reduce expenses and improve efficiency will enhance long-term shareholder value while maintaining superior service for our customers.”

Family Legacy Partners Expands to Northampton
NORTHAMPTON — Karen Curran, CFP and Molly Keegan, CPA are announced the opening of a Northampton office of Family Legacy Partners Inc., an established financial-advisory firm headquartered in Greenfield. The new office is located in a historic property on Round Hill Road. Family Legacy Partners is an independent financial-services firm offering financial planning and investment management. Securities are offered through Bolton Global Capital Inc. in Bolton, Mass. Advisory services are offered through Bolton Global Asset Management, a SEC-registered investment advisor.

Ludlow Mills Riverwalk to Begin Construction
LUDLOW — The Westmass Area Development Corp. announced that it will begin Phase I of its riverwalk project this month, part of the approved Ludlow Mills Preservation and Redevelopment Comprehensive Master Plan. Westmass will begin construction on the riverwalk with a planned completion of Phase I this July. The initial phase of construction will cost $600,000 and is being funded through a partnership between HealthSouth and Westmass. The riverwalk is one of the early commitments that Westmass made to the town of Ludlow and its residents to promote public health and recreation along the river. The riverwalk will offer public space for pedestrian use and passive recreation, opening up the Chicopee River to the Ludlow Mills businesses and to residents of the community. Westmass has selected a local contractor, Gomes Construction Co., for this phase of the project. Phase I will feature a loop design and will start near Center Street, just east of the Town Common, run along the river toward the new HealthSouth Hospital, and then return through the proposed future park and reconnect with the recently installed municipal sidewalk system on State Street. The length of this phase of the riverwalk will span 3,575 feet and will incorporate the use of recycled brick materials, historic timeline markers and river observation areas along the walk. Together, the proposed riverwalk and future public park will cover approximately 52 acres, or nearly one-third of the Ludlow Mills site. Westmass seeks to convey that open space to the town so that it will remain in protected public use. The open space is intended to integrate the Ludlow Mills project into the neighborhood and community as well as support the many existing and new businesses that are attracted by the revived vibrancy of the Ludlow Mills.

UMassFive Opens Branch at Mercy Medical Center
SPRINGFIELD — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union introduced its newest branch location at Mercy Medical Center in Springfield. As of January, the Credit Union of the Providence System (CUPS) has formally merged with UMassFive College Federal Credit Union, and has transitioned former CUPS members to be UMassFive members. With this merger, current employees of the Sisters of Providence Health Systems and their immediate family members are now eligible for UMassFive membership. Along with this merger, there is a new location for this credit-union branch at the Weldon Rehabilitation Hospital at Mercy, 233 Carew St., in Room 110. This space has been completely renovated to provide members with an efficient place to do their banking and gives access to all credit-union products and services, including checking, auto loans, home-equity loans, mortgages, credit cards, and investment guidance. As with other branch locations, members at this new branch will have access to free financial workshops on topics such as budgeting essentials, home buying, identity theft, and paying down debt. The branch design has a modern and inviting feel and allows flexibility of use for both members and staff. Rather than a traditional teller line, the credit union has introduced teller pods, which both take up less space and increase the ability of tellers to move throughout the area, assisting members wherever they are in the branch. A touchscreen kiosk will provide online information about UMassFive. The hours for this new branch are: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; and Thursday, 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

People on the Move

By
Departments People on the Move

Robinson Donovan, P.C., announced the promotion of two attorneys to Partner: Jeffrey Trapani, Esq. and Michael Simolo, Esq.

Jeffrey Trapani

Jeffrey Trapani

Mike Simolo

Mike Simolo

• Trapani, who joined the firm in 2007, concentrates in civil litigation, including insurance defense, employment law, municipal liability, business litigation, and professional malpractice. He also represents landlords in summary-process actions and housing-discrimination claims, and insurance companies in unfair-settlement claims and coverage issues. “Jeff is highly deserving of this designation,” said Nancy Pelletier, Esq., head of the Litigation Department at Robinson Donovan. “His expertise in civil litigation — both in the courtroom as well as in mediations and arbitrations — is a true asset to our firm.”
• Simolo, who joined the firm in 2009 and specializes in corporate and business counseling, estate planning, and litigation, plays a number of roles at Robinson Donovan, including supervising the organized transfer of wealth from clients to their beneficiaries. “Michael has deep knowledge of our shared practice areas and is a constant source of insight,” said Jeffrey Roberts, Esq., managing partner at Robinson Donovan. “He forms great relationships with his clients, getting to know their circumstances and helping them develop the kind of foresight that is beneficial for them in the long run.”
•••••
Monson Savings Bank recently announced three promotions:
Robert Chateauneuf

Robert Chateauneuf

Corinne Sawyer

Corinne Sawyer

• Robert Chateauneuf has been promoted to Vice President, Commercial Loan Officer. He joined Monson Savings Bank in 2012 as assistant vice president and is a key member of the bank’s commercial-lending team. He possesses indepth knowledge of the Western Mass. small-business marketplace and is a trusted advisor to business customers. He is a member of the 2014 class of BusinessWest’s 40 Under Forty, and is a graduate of UMass Amherst;
• Corinne Sawyer has been promoted to Vice President, Business Development Officer. She joined Monson Savings Bank in 2001 and was promoted to assistant vice president in 2007. She works with the bank’s business customers to optimize cash flow, financial workflow, and efficiency using the bank’s deposit, cash-management, and eBanking products. She serves on the board of directors of the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce and is a graduate of Elms College;
Dodie Carpentier

Dodie Carpentier

• Dodie Carpentier has been promoted to Human Resources Officer. She joined Monson Savings Bank in 2006 as assistant branch manager and was promoted to branch manager in 2008. In 2012 she assumed a dual role as branch manager and education coordinator. With her growing interest in training and HR, she obtained certification in Supervision in Banking and Human Resources Management from the Center for Financial Training. She was awarded the position of human resources officer after an extensive search to replace her predecessor, Elaine Grimaldi, who retired last year.
•••••



Matthew Boilard

Matthew Boilard

The local, family-owned-and-operated supplier of building supplies A. Boilard Sons Inc., announced that Matthew Boilard has joined the family business. His appointment as Sales Associate continues a legacy of family leadership, now in its fourth generation. “This company has always been a part of my life, and I look forward to adding my own outside perspective to the business,” he said. “I’m proud to have an opportunity to be part of a family business, and my goals are to grow the business and look for new opportunities to help it succeed.” Boilard is a 2011 graduate of Bentley University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in corporate finance and accounting.
•••••
Jewish Geriatric Services has named Anne Thomas Vice President of Residential Services and Administrator of the Leavitt Family Jewish Home. Thomas brings more than 25 years of diverse experience in elder healthcare to this position. She will be responsible for the day-to-day management of the Joint Commission-accredited, 200-bed, long-term-care and short-term-rehabilitation facility located in Longmeadow, and will also oversee management at Ruth’s House Assisted Living and Genesis House. Before joining the nursing home, Thomas served as the executive director and administrator of Hebrew Senior Life in Dedham, the largest provider of elder care in the Boston metropolitan area. In this role, she oversaw the day-to-day operations of more than 500 employees and 268 residents and their families, and was responsible for all aspects of financial and clinical outcomes. She also spearheaded the opening of a state-of-the-art healthcare center in the small-house model of care, which honors resident choice and quality of life. Prior to this, Thomas served as vice president/assistant administrator of Schervier Nursing Care Center, a member of the Bon Secours Health Care system, in Riverdale, N.Y.; and director of Chelsea Adult Day Health Care Center in New York City. Thomas is a member of Leading Age Massachusetts, the American College of Nursing Home Administrators, and the Assoc. of Health Care Executives. She holds a master’s degree in social work from Hunter College in New York, and a bachelor’s degree in social work from Providence College in Rhode Island. She is licensed as a nursing-home administrator and social worker, and is certified as a yoga instructor.
•••••
Dr. Holly Michaelson

Dr. Holly Michaelson

Dr. Holly Michaelson of Cooley Dickinson Medical Group General Surgical Care was among 1,640 initiates from around the world who recently became fellows of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Michaelson received a medical doctorate from Temple University Medical School and completed a general surgical residency at Drexel University College of Medicine. She earned board certification from the American Board of Surgery in 2005, and is the director of minimally invasive and robotic surgery at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Michaelson has a strong professional interest in advanced minimally invasive procedures, particularly surgeries of the colon and gastrointestinal tract as well as breast surgery. She holds membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. The American College of Surgeons honored new initiates during its convocation ceremony at the college’s 2014 annual Clinical Congress in San Francisco. By meeting the college’s stringent membership requirements, fellows of the college earn the right to use the designation FACS (Fellow, American College of Surgeons) after their names. An applicant for fellowship must be a graduate of an approved medical school; must have completed advanced training in one of the 14 surgical specialties recognized by the college; must possess certification by an American surgical specialty board or its Canadian equivalent; and must have been in practice for at least one year at the time of his or her application. Before admission into fellowship, the surgeon must further demonstrate ethical fitness and professional proficiency, and his or her acceptance as a fellow of the college must be approved by three-fourths of its board of regents. The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational organization of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical practice and to improve the quality of care for the surgical patient.
•••••
The Gray House inducted Teresa Spaziani to a three-year term on its board of directors at its January board meeting. Also elected were four new officers for one-year terms:
• Michael Walsh, President;
• David Chase, Vice President;
• Paul Mitus, Treasurer; and
• Candace Pereira, Secretary.
Spaziani is a quality-assurance manager at the Children’s Study Home in Springfield. She has held that position since February 2014. Previously, she was its community relations and outreach manager. Spaziani holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western New England University, graduating magna cum laude in 2012. Walsh was the current board president and was re-elected for another one-year term. He is an adjunct instructor in Political Science at Westfield State University and a consultant and legal advisor at MIRA Associates. Chase has more than 20 years of banking experience. He is a vice president and commercial lender at Hampden Bank in Springfield. Mitus previously served as vice president. He has 25 years of banking experience and is currently a portfolio manager at Hampden Bank. Pereira has more than 10 years of banking experience. She is a commercial-portfolio loan officer for Farmington Bank in West Springfield. The Gray House is a small, neighborhood human-service agency located at 22 Sheldon St. in the North End of Springfield. Its mission is to help neighbors facing hardships to meet their immediate and transitional needs by providing food, clothing, and educational services in a safe, positive environment.
•••••
The American Assoc. of Community Colleges has selected HCC professor emerita, alumna, and major donor Elaine Marieb for its 2015 Outstanding Alumni awards. Marieb taught anatomy and physiology at Holyoke Community College for 25 years after receiving her Ph.D. in zoology from UMass. While teaching, she enrolled in HCC’s Registered Nursing program, earning her associate degree. Her teaching and education led her to write a series of anatomy and physiology textbooks that have gone on to become international bestsellers. Last year, Marieb donated $1 million toward HCC’s Building Healthy Communities fund-raising campaign, which is supporting two building projects at the college, a new Center for Health Education on Jarvis Avenue, and the Center for Life Sciences on campus. The AACC award recognizes community-college alumni for their career achievements, philanthropic contributions, and inspirational impact.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By
Chamber Corners Departments

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
 
• Feb. 12-March 26: Leadership Institute 2015, to be staged Thursdays, 1-4:30 p.m., between Feb. 12 and March 26. The opening session will be held at Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield, and all remaining sessions will be held at TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. In partnership with Western New England University, this seven-week program is designed to teach mid- and upper-level managers the crucial thinking and problem solving skills needed to enable them to be effective leaders in service to the community and in their workplaces and designed to develop high energy and high involvement leadership. Sponsored by MassMutual with scholarship support from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. For information, contact Kara Cavanaugh at [email protected].

• Feb. 27: Outlook 2015, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., MassMutual Center, Springfield. Featuring Gov. Charlie Baker and special guests including U.S. Rep. Richard Neal. Presenting sponsor: Health New England. Platinum sponsors: Eastern States Exposition, United Personnel, MassMutual Financial Group, MGM Springfield. Program/reception sponsors: Comcast, Sisters of Providence Health System, the Republican, Eversource. Gold sponsors: BusinessWest and Chicopee Savings Bank. Tickets are $50 for chamber members, $70 for general admission. Tables of 10 are available. Reservation deadline: Feb. 20. No walk-ins accepted. No cancellations after reservation deadline. Reservations must be made in advance. To register, visit www.myonlinechamber.com or e-mail Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected].
 
GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
 
• Feb. 11: CEO Luncheon, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by Collegian Court Restaurant, 89 Park St., Chicopee.
Tickets are $25 members, $30 for non-members.

• Feb. 18: February Salute Breakfast & Annual Meeting, 7:15-9 a.m., at the MassMutual Learning & Conference Center, Chicopee. Tickets are $23 for members, $29 for non-members. 

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
 
• Feb. 9: Getting Down to Business about Business, 8-9 a.m., on the second Monday of each month.  Mayor Karen Cadieux will be hosted by one of Easthampton’s businesses for casual question-and-answer sessions.
 
• Feb. 14: Second annual Easthampton WinterFest, starting at 11 a.m. The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee and Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce invite you to the second annual Easthampton WinterFest. This community-wide event features family-friendly winter activities held throughout the day, featuring an historical ice harvest on Nashawannuck Pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, snowshoeing, snow sculpture, a chili cook-off, a community bonfire, and much more. There will also be winter-themed indoor activities for all ages. Most events are free or by donation. A lineup of the day’s events will be posted on www.nashawannuckpond.org.
 
GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
 
• Feb. 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Business networking event includes complimentary appetizers, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Sponsored and hosted by Gary Rome Hyundai, 1000 Main St., Holyoke. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
 
• Feb. 24: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business: Marketing Your Business,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber conference room, 177 High St. This program, the latest in a series, will provide all you need to know about designing a logo, branding your business, advertising opportunities, social media, and developing a website. Tickets are $20. Series sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery in partnership with Holyoke Creative Arts. Call the Holyoke chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up or online at holyokechamber.com.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
  
• Feb. 11: February After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Betts Piping Supply Co., 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310
  
• Feb. 10: Ladies Night, 5-7 p.m., at It’s All About Me!, 2 Somers Road, Hampden. Enjoy complimentary wine and refreshments. 
Reservations are complimentary but required. Contact Gwen Burke at (413) 237-8840 or [email protected]. The Professional Women’s Chamber is an affiliate of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880
 
• Feb. 19: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. One must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note that we cannot invoice you for these events.
 For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 25: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Storrowton Tavern,  1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The breakfast will feature a panel of various leaders, including state Sen. James Welch, state Sen. Donald Humason, Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on ticket sales, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Editorial

By
Opinion
A Worthy Class of Difference Makers

BusinessWest’s Difference Makers Class of 2015 may be the most compelling to date, and for many reasons.

For starters, many of the honorees might be considered non-traditional by some. There’s a local employer (granted, a Fortune 100 company); a nonprofit that is, by most standards, still just getting started; the director of another nonprofit, tasked with community events such as fireworks displays and parades; the organizers of a bike race that raises funds to battle cancer; and the new ownership team at a landmark Springfield restaurant, one that only reopened its doors 10 weeks ago (see story HERE).

Because these honorees are non-traditional, that might lead to speculation, if not open debate, about whether some — or all — are worthy of that designation Difference Maker. While we acknowledge that some of these selections are certainly different, a very strong case can be made for each. And we’ll make those cases. In no particular order:

• MassMutual. There are some, perhaps many, who would say that giving back to the community is what is a Fortune 100 is supposed to do. Perhaps, but not all of them do, and not many do it to the extent that this Springfield-based institution does.

Meanwhile, it’s not merely the level of philanthropy, or community involvement, that sets this company apart, but the nature of that involvement. Its giving is part of a considered strategy to build a stronger community and a capable workforce for the long term — a holistic approach, as one observer called it.

• Judy Matt, executive director of the Spirit of Springfield. While some might debate whether someone who organizes a fireworks display should be placed in the same category as an individual devoted to improving childhood literacy, we do not.

They are both making a difference in their own way. Matt, who has been at the forefront of creating, enhancing, and continuing community-focused, family-focused events for more than three decades, deserves a huge amount of credit for improving quality of life here and providing some light in some otherwise very dark times in Springfield’s history. Bright Nights is her best piece of work, but it is a deep — and powerful — portfolio.

• Katelynn’s Ride. When BusinessWest launched this recognition program in 2009, one of the goals was to show that you don’t have to change the world — or be a Fortune 100 company, for that matter — to make a difference. You can do that by changing a small part of the world.

And Katelynn’s Ride does just that. The K-Ride, as it’s often called, named in honor of Katelynn Battista, who lost a courageous battle to leukemia at age 11, makes a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families through donations to Baystate Children’s Hospital and the Jimmy Fund. And, more specifically, it makes a huge difference locally through its support for a new position at Baystate — a liaison of sorts between families of cancer patients and the specialists who provide care. And it’s making a difference simply by bringing together hundreds of people to battle a common — and hated — enemy.

• Valley Venture Mentors. While this nonprofit, economic-development agency is really just getting started, it is already making a difference as it works toward creating what its founders describe, alternately, as an entrepreneurial renaissance and an entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Springfield is light years away from being Silicon Valley or Cambridge, and it will likely never approximate what those communities have done. But at least people can talk in those terms. Years ago, there was no such talk, and VVM has brought about that change.

• The new ownership team at the Student Prince and the Fort. ‘The restaurant has only been open for two and a half months!’ ‘No one’s really sure how it’s going to fare!’ ‘It’s just a restaurant!’ ‘How can these individuals be Difference Makers?’ We acknowledge all these opinions and questions and understand their origins.

But this new ownership team — The Yee family, Peter Picknelly, and Kevin and Michael Vann — are already making a difference by keeping another of Springfield’s institutions from being relegated to the past tense. And they’re making a difference because of the energy they’re creating in Springfield, and for ensuring a better future.

Agenda

By
Agenda Departments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Opinion

By
Opinion
Early Education Is a National Priority

By JOAN KAGAN

All of us in the broad field of early-childhood education and care were elated to hear our vital services underscored as a priority in President Obama’s State of the Union Address late last month.

As executive director of Square One, which has been providing these services since 1883, I believe the president’s remarks to a joint session of Congress shows us that our leaders are willing to spend political capital to acknowledge the value of investing in our young and vulnerable citizens.

The president stressed that child care is something that’s not merely good to have, but something that middle-class and low-income families must have. It is a message that Square One, together with our colleagues in the field, has been sharing for years, and we are ecstatic to know that the most powerful people in Washington have decided it is worthy of discussion on a national stage.

Universal child care is not a new idea. During World War II, the young men went off to war. Having women in the workforce was a national priority, and this country responded by providing universal child care. Today, in much the same way, enabling middle-class and low-income parents with young children to work and support their families has to become a national economic priority. Even as our economy continues to recover and grow stronger, families where both parents work are more prevalent than ever. And in the case of single-parent households, every parent in the family works.

A stronger economy has been good news for ‘Mary,’ who was overjoyed at finding her first professional job. Mary, who had been homeless and on welfare, first came to Square One as a participant in our Mom Squad program. This innovative model helps mothers who receive aid from the Department of Transitional Assistance engage in volunteer service at community agencies, including Square One. By performing a minimum of 30 hours per week of community service, participants can get voucher assistance to enroll their children in high-quality early-education and care programs.

While Mom Squad members work without pay to gain on-the-job training in a supportive, nurturing environment, their child is cared for at Square One. It is a great model. However, there is a problem that arises when someone like Mary ‘graduates’ from the Mom Squad and applies the skills she learned to get a real job earning a decent wage. She lifted herself and her family out of homelessness and dependency on welfare. So what is the problem? Now that she has a job, she is no longer eligible for a child-care subsidy, and she needs child care in order to work. Mary has confided in her Square One social worker that, if she cannot find a child-care solution, she may end up back on welfare.

Quality child care for five days a week often costs more than a month’s rent. Over a year, quality child care can cost as much as it costs to attend community college. A quality early-education and care experience for our children is costly when quality is (and should be) maintained. Research-based materials, professional development for teachers, a stimulating learning environment supplemented with developmentally appropriate supplies, and activities to support a child’s early learning do not come cheap.

It is a labor-intensive industry, despite the fact that child-care workers are among the lowest-paid professionals nationwide. The cost of care is particularly difficult for low-income working parents, like Mary.

Access to affordable, high-quality early education and care is a national priority if we want to help more middle-class and low-income families get ahead or avoid welfare assistance, and if we value giving every child an opportunity to enter kindergarten ready to learn. In the president’s words, child care is no longer nice to have; it’s a must-have.

Joan Kagan is executive director of Springfield-based Square One; (413) 732-5183.

Company Notebook

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Company Notebook Departments

Doctors Express Forges Partnership with Large Practice Group
WORCESTER — Doctors Express, the largest independent urgent-care provider in the Commonwealth, announced a partnership with one of the largest independent cooperative physician groups, the Central Massachusetts Independent Physicians Assoc. (CMIPA). This first-of-its-kind partnership will offer more resources for patients, better communication between providers and patients, as well as continuity of care. Doctors Express operates under parent company Medvest, LLC, which serves as the master developer of the urgent-care franchise throughout Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. In particular, this will be an opportunity for patients in Worcester to find accessible and affordable care. Doctors Express and CMIPA plan to launch their first site in Worcester (115 Stafford St., late spring) and another Worcester location (address and date to be announced shortly). This announcement comes on the heels of a successful partnership between Doctors Express and the Steward Health Care System, based in the Greater Boston area. Through the partnership, urgent care provided by Doctors Express is now available to all Steward patients. As Doctors Express continues to grow with more locations, affiliations between urgent-care providers and major medical systems is the way of the future, said Jim Brennan and Rick Crews, CEO and president, respectively, of Medvest, LLC. “Our partnership with CMIPA continues the objective at Medvest to redefine how patient care is delivered,” said Brennan. “We are partnered with Steward Health Care System, the largest fully integrated community care organization and community hospital network in Eastern Massachusetts, and now CMIPA, one of the largest physician cooperative groups in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.” Existing urgent-care locations have not completely satisfied the need for affordable and accessible care, said Gail Sillman, CEO of CMIPA. “We thought about setting up our own urgent-care center while evaluating our options. We even hired a consultant and became familiar with all the urgent-care providers nationally and locally.” With the help of a consultant, Sillman identified Doctors Express as the most viable option. “Together we saw the benefits of a true partnership where other urgent-care providers did not,” she said. “Doctors Express will honor our patient relationships and extend patient care on nights and weekends for a true, mutually beneficial partnership. Furthermore, Doctors Express has the name brand and market recognition that we were looking for, largely due to the quality of their patient care.” Doctors Express currently has Massachusetts locations in Braintree, Burlington, Dedham, Malden, Marlboro, Natick, North Andover, Saugus, Springfield, Waltham, Watertown, and West Springfield, with several new locations in development. In addition to the two Worcester locations to be opened this year, the company plans to open a location in New Bedford later this month. The Marlboro location is the most recent addition to the Massachusetts-based operations of Doctors Express, having opened on Dec. 5 under the leadership of Managing Director Bing Yeo.

UMass Amherst, Amazon.com Create Virtual Bookstore
AMHERST — UMass Amherst has contracted with Amazon.com to replace its traditional on-campus textbook store with a virtual bookstore expected to save students about 30% compared with current prices on course materials and provide free, one-day shipping to the campus and nearby communities. This will be Amazon’s first online university store in the Northeast and its third nationwide, with potential annual savings of $380 per student. “We know students struggle with the high cost of textbooks and other course materials, and they have been moving to online purchasing. We are delighted to help them get the most competitive prices and first-rate service,” said James Sheehan, UMass Amherst’s vice chancellor of administration and finance. “By seamlessly linking our online campus information system to Amazon, we will make it convenient as well as economical for students to get the items they need for their classes, delivered in one day with no shipping charge to campus and nearby addresses.” Beginning in May, students will be able to order new, used, rental, and digital textbooks and other course materials through Amazon or through personalized links in SPIRE, the university’s online student-information system. To make finding UMass textbooks easier for students, Amazon will integrate relevant course and section information on customized Amazon product pages. In June, Amazon will also open a staffed customer pick-up and drop-off location in the Lincoln Campus Center. For several years, students have been turning from traditional textbook stores to online sources to save money. The university’s five-year contract with Amazon will accelerate the online-purchasing trend and save UMass Amherst students money, particularly through free shipping either to campus or to addresses in Amherst, Hadley, Northampton, Pelham, South Deerfield, and Sunderland. UMass Amherst officials said Amazon was chosen from six companies that submitted proposals because of its low prices and its ability to deliver superior customer service. Based on a sample of more than 1,500 course materials used in UMass Amherst classes during the 2014 spring semester, Amazon estimates it can offer UMass students a savings of 31% versus current bookstore prices, or around $1.4 million based on sales of textbooks at the existing UMass Bookstore. The College Board estimates that a student at a four-year state university spends $1,225 per year on textbooks and supplies, but that number varies across courses of study. Based on this rough estimate, UMass Amherst students could save about $380 annually.

Atlantic Fasteners Moves to Larger Facility
AGAWAM — Atlantic Fasteners has moved to a 44,500-square-foot facility in Agawam, bringing all employees under one roof. The 100%-employee-owned company, which sells industrial and aerospace fasteners and supplies nationwide, previously operated out of three locations in neighboring West Springfield. The new facility has the capacity to hold four times the company’s current inventory and accommodate 25% more office employees. It includes a 22-foot pickup counter, complete with 17 technical fastener wall charts to help customers with measuring fasteners, identifying head styles, and other important information. The ISO 9001:2008 and AS9120-certified firm was founded by Western Mass. businessman Patrick O’Toole in 1981. He sold the company to his employees in 2005.

WSU Online Programs Lauded by U.S. News
WESTFIELD — Westfield State University led Massachusetts’ state universities and placed in the top 30% out of 214 schools in U.S. News & World Report’s 2015 “Best Online Education Programs” rankings. Westfield State’s official ranking was 58 out of 214 in the category of online-education bachelor’s programs. “We are committed to finding new ways to expand access to a high-quality college education,” said Elizabeth Preston, president of Westfield State University. “Offering online access to our academic programming allows us to support the needs of students who might not otherwise be able to take advantage of the educational opportunities we offer.” Westfield State has offered online classes since 2002 and currently offers six online bachelor’s-degree-completion programs, in business management, criminal justice, liberal studies, history, sociology, and psychology. Evolving the program has been key to its success and expansion. Last year, Westfield State signed the MassTransfer Plus agreement that allows students who have completed an online associate’s degree at Holyoke Community College (HCC) to transfer to the university’s online bachelor’s-degree program, making it possible for them to complete a four-year degree fully online. The MassTransfer Plus agreement builds on the growing number of fully online degree programs available at HCC and Westfield State, as well as the institutions’ determination to make it easier for Massachusetts residents to obtain an education and move into higher-paying, in-demand career fields.

VertitechIT Launches New, Interactive Website
HOLYOKE — With sales at an all-time high, a modern headquarters, and a new, national business alliance focused on IT network infrastructure and unified communications, VertitechIT is celebrating with the launch of its new, interactive website, www.vertitechit.com. The site uses humorous, black-and-white photography and poignant headlines to draw in visitors, poking light fun at what can be a very staid and highly technical profession. “IT industry websites tend to be rather formulaic,” said VertitechIT Principal Partner Greg Pellerin. “It was important for our new site to reflect our corporate culture, one that promotes fun and creativity along with cutting-edge technical expertise.” The privately held company, which caters to the business and healthcare industries, just concluded its most successful year ever and recently moved into its new national headquarters in a converted 19th-century paper mill in Holyoke. VertitechIT also recently announced the formation of a national IT-solutions coalition with Microsoft platform provider Software Logic and unified communications expert Partner Consulting. The new Stability Alliance (www.stabilityalliance.com) is focused on building IT network infrastructures that allow businesses and healthcare systems to increase capacity, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

SC Recognized for Community Engagement
SPRINGFIELD — Springfield College has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation as one of a select group of colleges and universities throughout the country to earn its community-engagement classification. This classification recognizes Springfield College for its curriculum, which involves students and faculty addressing community needs, as well as outreach and partnerships that benefit the external community and the campus community. “This classification is highly respected and valued by the higher-education community,” said Springfield College Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Jean Wyld. “The essence of a Springfield College education is preparing students for careers and personal lives that improve the lives of other people, and this classification attests to that mission.” Springfield College is one of 361 institutions that now hold the community-engagement classification. This honor represents a higher-education institution’s excellent alignment among mission, culture, leadership, resources, and practices that support dynamic and noteworthy community engagement.

Springfield JCC Receives Grant for Wellness Project
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield JCC Kehillah Special Needs Department’s Fitness Buddies Program is the recipient of a $10,000 grant from Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut & Western Mass. for a wellness project that will significantly improve quality of life for young people with special needs. Recognizing the need in the Greater Springfield area for a fitness center with adapted equipment for teens with special needs, the JCC established a Fitness Buddies program with seed money from the Doug Flutie Foundation in 2013. As the popularity of the program increased, additional specialized equipment was needed to accommodate individuals with Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, and autism-spectrum disorders. Ronald McDonald House Charities stepped in to underwrite the cost of two Expresso S3Y youth bikes, which are safer than a conventional treadmill or elliptical machine. This type of bike is also being used in a pilot program with Harvard School of Public Health. Adding modified equipment puts special-needs individuals on a par with their friends and gives them access to aerobic and fitness equipment that otherwise would be excluded from their workout. “Innovations such as these accessible bikes for teens and young adults with special needs opens up yet another opportunity for profound self-development — in this case, exercising in a typical fitness center,” said Stocky Clark, executive director of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut & Western Mass. “RMHC is honored to partner with the JCC to bring this innovation to individuals with a range of special needs participating in the Kehillah Special Needs Department of the JCC.” Increased social interaction between the special-needs community and general members helps create healthy relationships and empowers individuals with special needs. Best Buddies matches teens and young adults who have social challenges with teens and adults in the community. Together, they work out at the Springfield JCC, and participants make new friends while learning healthy habits. Research shows that exercise yields a range of physical and mental-health benefits for children. The Springfield JCC serves the Greater Springfield and Northern Conn. communities, offering hundreds of programs for all ages with a strong commitment to individuals with special needs.

WMECo to Rebrand as Eversource Energy
SPRINGFIELD — Western Massachusetts Electric Co. (WMECo) announced it will undergo a corporate rebranding, complete with a new name, Eversource Energy. The change will become official on Feb. 2. All subsidiaries of Hartford-based Northeast Utilities will take the new name, including WMECo, NSTAR, Connecticut Light and Power Co., Public Service Co. of New Hampshire, and Yankee Gas Services Co. Tom May, chairman, president, and CEO of Northeast Utilities, stated in a press release that “consolidating our brand was the obvious next step for us as we continually strive to improve energy delivery and customer service to our 3.6 million electricity and natural-gas customers across the region.”

Real Pickles Wins Good Food Award
GREENFIELD — Dan Rosenberg and Addie Rose Holland of Greenfield-based Real Pickles joined top artisan food producers from around the country on Thursday for the Good Food Awards ceremony at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. Real Pickles was awarded a top honor at the event for its organic beet kvass, a fermented beverage traditional to Eastern Europe. “One of our goals at Real Pickles has always been to promote the flavor and health benefits of fermented foods,” said Rosenberg. “Receiving a national honor like the Good Food Award helps us get this message out.” Real Pickles uses the traditional pickling process — without vinegar — to make its line of fermented vegetables. The organic beet kvass is made with certified organic vegetables from northeast family farms, as are all of the company’s products. The kvass is available by the bottle from area retailers, including Green Fields Co-op Market in Greenfield, River Valley Co-op Market in Northampton, and Whole Foods Market in Hadley. The Good Food Awards are given to artisan producers in five regions of the U.S. in 11 categories — beer, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, coffee, confections, honey, oil, pickles, preserves, and spirits — and highlight outstanding American food producers who are making food that is exceptionally delicious and supports sustainability and social good.

MassMutual to Continue Sponsorship of Hampden County Legal Clinic
SPRINGFIELD — The Hampden County Bar Assoc. announced that MassMutual will be continuing its sponsorship of the Hampden County Legal Clinic for 2015 with a grant of $20,000. The grant will help carry on the expansion of pro bono activities as well as the promotion of the clinic. MassMutual has been the Hampden County Legal Clinic’s exclusive sponsor since 2012, not only providing financial support but also taking a leadership role in developing new pro bono opportunities and encouraging its in-house lawyers, paralegals, and staff to participate in the clinic’s programs. “Sponsoring the Hampden County Legal Clinic enhances access to justice for a significant number of local residents, ultimately benefiting the Greater Springfield community as well,” said Mark Roellig, executive vice president and general counsel. “We are proud to continue this relationship and hope to see growing numbers of legal volunteers donating their time through the clinic’s programs.”

People on the Move

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Departments People on the Move

William Crawford IV, CEO of United Financial Bancorp Inc. and United Bank of Glastonbury, Conn., announced that United Bank has recruited the following bankers from People’s United Bank to cover the Greater Springfield region:
• Dan Flynn, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Wholesale Banking. Flynn will report to David Paulson, executive vice president and head of Wholesale Banking. His primary role will be to drive numerous enterprise-wide commercial-banking functions for United’s wholesale-banking team. He will have oversight of United’s Greater Springfield commercial banking operations, as well as management responsibilities for the bank’s shared-national-credit business and all business-banking teams. Most recently, Flynn was senior vice president and market manager at People’s United Bank, primarily for Western Mass., for seven years, where he was responsible for managing and coordinating all aspects of C&I lending activities. In his previous roles at People’s United, he held similar responsibilities for managing and coordinating all aspects of a significant C&I portfolio in the Central Mass., Western Mass., and Vermont markets. Before People’s United acquired Bank of Western Massachusetts, Flynn was executive vice president and senior lender from 1989 to 2009 for the Bank of Western Massachusetts.
• Tony Liberopoulos, Senior Vice President and Commercial Banking Regional Executive. Liberopoulos, who will be directly responsible for United Bank’s commercial-banking practice in Greater Springfield, brings 27 years of commercial-banking experience, most recently holding the position of senior vice president and regional manager for People’s United Bank in Springfield. He also spent more than a decade at Fleet Bank and BayBank in various positions, including underwriting, loan resolution, and lending.
• Rick Rabideau, Senior Vice President and Commercial Banking Team Leader. Rabideau also comes to United from People’s United Bank, where he most recently served as senior vice president and team leader. He will take on a dual responsibility with United as a commercial banking officer, focusing on developing and growing commercial-banking opportunities as well as a player-coach role in leading and mentoring other teammates on the commercial team. Rabideau’s career in banking started in 1986 with Shawmut Bank, where he was a commercial banker from 1988 to 1996. He then joined First International Bank/UPS Capital, eventually ascending to senior vice president with the key responsibility of managing 10 lenders who made up the Springfield and Hartford market lending units. In 2008, he joined People’s United Bank.
• Sheryl McQuade, Senior Vice President and Massachusetts Senior Credit Officer. McQuade has more than 25 years of corporate and commercial banking experience, most recently serving as senior vice president, commercial regional leader for Berkshire Bank, where she was responsible for all commercial teams and production in Connecticut. She worked for Bank of America and predecessor banks in a variety of senior production and credit roles for the business-banking, middle-market, and corporate-banking divisions.
•••••

Nancy Buffone

Nancy Buffone

The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce announced the election of Nancy Buffone, Executive Director of External Relations and University Events for UMass Amherst, as President of the organization. Buffone assumes leadership of the chamber following the two-year term of Lawrence Archey of Hampshire College. Julie Marcus, principal of New England Environmental, has been elected Vice President of the chamber. The chamber also announced the election of six community leaders to join the chamber’s board of directors:
• Robin Brown, Lord Jeffery Inn;
• Sean Cleary, Amherst Copy and Design Works;
• Heidi Flanders, Integrity Development;
• Katelyn Lockhart, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County;
• April Williams, J.F. Conlon and Associates; and
• Peter Vickery, Esq., attorney at law.
The chamber also acknowledged those stepping off the board after years of dedicated service to the organization:
• Kathryn Grandonico-Chiavaroli, Lincoln Real Estate;
• John Kokoski, Mapleline Farm;
• Reza Rahmani, Moti Restaurant; and
• Meredith Schmidt, UMass Campus Center.
•••••
Christopher Neronha

Christopher Neronha

Christopher Neronha, an attorney with extensive experience in higher education, has been named General Counsel at Springfield College. Neronha will provide legal counsel and guidance to the leadership of the college and will serve as secretary to its board of trustees. He will be a member of the president’s senior leadership team. Neronha has 19 years of experience as an in-house corporate attorney, nine of those as a senior in-house attorney for Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I., where he previously was employed since 2006, as the associate general counsel and executive director of risk management. Prior to Roger Williams, Neronha was assistant general counsel and assistant secretary at National Life Insurance Co. in Montpelier, Vt., where he provided legal support for all company operations. He is an attorney licensed in the federal and state courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the states of Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Vermont. A graduate of Providence College with a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, in political science, Neronha received a juris doctor, magna cum laude, from the University of Notre Dame Law School.
•••••
FieldEddy Insurance Inc., which recently became a division of HUB International New England, LLC, a leading global insurance broker, has announced several appointments:
Olga Tracy

Olga Tracy

• Olga Tracy has rejoined the agency as the newest Personal-lines Account Manager in the Monson office. She will be responsible for educating and ensuring that clients have the proper insurance coverage;
Marylou “Lou” Rosner

Marylou “Lou” Rosner

• In the East Longmeadow office, Karen Britt has accepted a promotion to Middle-market Account Manager, Heather Fleury has been named Small-business Account Manager, and Peggy Grundstrom will be a part of the quality-control team.
The agency also recognized Marylou “Lou” Rosner upon her retirement. She leaves FieldEddy with more than 29 years of devoted customer care.
•••••
Main Street Hospitality Group announced a new addition to its management team, appointing sommelier Dan Thomas to the position of Wine and Bar Director. Main Street Hospitality Group is a hospitality-management company based out of Stockbridge. The group owns and manages the Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, where Thomas has held the role of sommelier since 2007. Over his seven years at the inn, Thomas has expanded the wine list to include more than 400 selections and 50 half-bottle selections, with a focus on international artisan producers and local and regional wines. The Red Lion Inn was awarded the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for the 16th consecutive year in 2014. Thomas possesses an extensive knowledge of oenology and has completed the first level of the Court of Master Sommeliers.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

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Chamber Corners Departments

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
 
• Jan. 28: January 2015 Lunch & Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Springfield College (Dodge Room in Flynn Campus Union), 263 Alden St., Springfield. The event topic is “Question 4: Mandated Sick Leave … Now What?” presented by Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. Core concepts discussed include who is eligible and who isn’t, what it means for your workforce, and the subtle nuances of the law. Sponsored by Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. Tickets are $25 for members, $35 general admission. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at (413) 755-1313.
 
• Feb. 4: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Featuring: “You’re a Piece of Work! Celebrate Joy, Passion, and Influence,” presented by Dr. Steve Sobel, humorist and motivational speaker. Saluting: FIT Solutions — 10th anniversary; GZA GeoEnvironmental — 50th anniversary; and Shriners Hospitals for Children — 90th nnniversary. Sponsored by United Personnel. Reservations are $20 for members (in advance, $25 members at the door), $30 general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
 
• Feb. 12-March 26: Leadership Institute 2015, to be staged Thursdays, 1-4:30 p.m., between Feb. 12 and March 26. The opening session will be held at Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield, and all remaining sessions will be held at TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. In partnership with Western New England University, this seven-week program is designed to teach mid- and upper-level managers the crucial thinking and problem solving skills needed to enable them to be effective leaders in service to the community and in their workplaces and designed to develop high energy and high involvement leadership. Sponsored by MassMutual with scholarship support from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. For information, contact Kara Cavanaugh at [email protected].
 
AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Jan. 29: Chamber After 5, 5-8 p.m., at artALIVE, 35 South Pleasant St., Amherst. Ever try a Wine & Paint night? Here’s your chance to do so. Don’t know how to paint? Who cares, neither do we. We’re all on the same level, folks — that’s why we will have an instructor. Admission is $20, and the price includes wine and two and a half hours with a personal instructor.
 
GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
 
• Jan. 28: January Business After Hours,  5-7 p.m., at H & R Block, 1475 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• Feb. 11: CEO Luncheon, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by Collegian Court Restaurant, 89 Park St., Chicopee.
Tickets are $25 members, $30 for non-members.

• Feb. 18: February Salute Breakfast & Annual Meeting, 7:15-9 a.m., at the MassMutual Learning & Conference Center, Chicopee. Tickets are $23 for members, $29 for non-members.
 
GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
 
• Feb. 9: Getting Down to Business about Business, 8-9 a.m., on the second Monday of each month.  Mayor Karen Cadieux will be hosted by one of Easthampton’s businesses for casual question-and-answer sessions.
 
• Feb. 14: Second annual Easthampton WinterFest, starting at 11 a.m. The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee and Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce invite you to the second annual Easthampton WinterFest. This community-wide event features family-friendly winter activities held throughout the day, featuring an historical ice harvest on Nashawannuck Pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, snowshoeing, snow sculpture, a chili cook-off, a community bonfire, and much more. There will also be winter-themed indoor activities for all ages. Most events are free or by donation. A lineup of the day’s events will be posted on www.nashawannuckpond.org.
 
GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
 
• Jan. 30: Legislative Coffee Hour, 7:45-9 a.m., at the Summit View Banquet House, 500 Northampton St., Holyoke. Speakers will be state Sen. Donald Humason and state Rep. Aaron Vega. Tickets are $25 for members with reservations, $35 for non-members and at the door. Price includes a continental breakfast.
 
• Feb. 3: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business: Staff – Hiring and Firing,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber conference room. This program, the latest in a series, will provide all you need to know about employee handbooks, insurance, performance evaluation, job descriptions, sexual harassment, sensitivity training, and human resources. Tickets are $20. Series sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery in partnership with the Holyoke Creative Arts. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
 
• Feb. 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Business networking event includes complimentary appetizers, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Sponsored and hosted by Gary Rome Hyundai, 1000 Main St., Holyoke. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
 
• Feb. 24: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business: Marketing Your Business,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber conference room, 177 High St. This program, the latest in a series, will provide all you need to know about designing a logo, branding your business, advertising opportunities, social media, and developing a website. Tickets are $20. Series sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery in partnership with Holyoke Creative Arts. Call the Holyoke chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up or online at holyokechamber.com.
 
GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Jan. 27: New Member Orientation at Northampton Chamber of Commerce, noon to 1 p.m. This is the chance to tell us more about your business and how the chamber can best serve you, meet other new members, and learn how to make to the most of your chamber membership. RSVP to (413) 584-1900 or [email protected]. Cost: free.

• Feb. 6: Google Docs for Nonprofits Workshop, 9-11 a.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. The class is an introduction to Google Docs and Google Drive, the online storage location for Google Docs. Since this software is available at no cost, many non-profit organizations are using it extensively for collaboration purposes and to supplement or even replace Microsoft Office. In this two-hour workshop, you’ll learn how to set up a local Google Drive folder, which automatically synchronizes with Google Drive on the Web.  You’ll learn to create new documents in the Google Docs format, as well as how to work with Word documents in Google Docs and how to convert Word documents to the Google Docs format. The class will focus on basic v and editing techniques in Google Docs, but will also cover best practices for using Google Docs. Since it is a collaboration tool that lets you share documents in real time with other users, you’ll need to be mindful of issues related to safeguarding confidential data. You’ll learn the difference between viewing and editing, and how to set permission levels for collaborators. You’ll also learn simple tips that will help you avoid accidentally overwriting data or accidentally publishing confidential data. Cost is $20 for members, $30 for non-members. Pre-registration is required; space is limited. To register: visit [email protected].
 
GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
  
• Feb. 2: Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Dan Knapik, 8-9 a.m., at McDonald’s, 182 North Elm St., Westfield. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618 to register.

• Feb. 11: February After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Betts Piping Supply Co., 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310
  
• Feb. 10: Ladies Night, 5-7 p.m., at It’s All About Me!, 2 Somers Road, Hampden. Enjoy complimentary wine and refreshments. 
Reservations are complimentary but required. Contact Gwen Burke at (413) 237-8840 or [email protected]. The Professional Women’s Chamber is an affiliate of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413) 426-3880
 
• Feb. 4: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Flowers By Webster 82 Elm St., West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Event is open to the public; you must pay at the door if you’re a non-member. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
 
• Feb. 19: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. One must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note that we cannot invoice you for these events.
 For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 25: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Storrowton Tavern,  1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The breakfast will feature a panel of various leaders, including state Sen. James Welch, state Sen. Donald Humason, Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on ticket sales, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Agenda

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Agenda Departments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Court Dockets

By
Court Dockets Departments

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

CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Stewart Staffing Solutions, LLC v. Spic n Span Cleaning Company, LLC
Allegations: Non-payment of services rendered: $9,846.11
Filed: 12/30/14

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Ellen Simes v. Drug Stores II, LLC d/b/a Innovo Specialty Compounding Solutions
Allegations: Breach of contract: $435,000
Filed: 11/26/14

Maurice Christopoher Chin v. Garda CL New England Inc.
Allegations: Negligence, libel, and defamation: $93,000
Filed: 11/24/14

SPEC Process Engineering and Construction Inc. v. Vertrolysis, LLC and Ricar, LLC
Allegations: Breach of contract: $341,467.96
Filed: 12/3/14

VIP Physical Therapy Inc. v. Elco Administrative Services
Allegations: Breach of contract and unfair and deceptive practices: $1,000,000
Filed: 11/24/14

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Christian A. Fitzgerald, personal representative of the estate of Rebecca A. Turner v. Richard Romano, M.D., Jena Marie Comeau, R.N., and Baystate Mary Lane Hospital
Allegations: Medical negligence resulting in pain, suffering, and death: $5,075,000
Filed: 12/30/14

Miranda Design Studio Inc. v. Flat World Knowledge Inc.
Allegations: Failure to pay for services rendered: $46,288
Filed: 12/9/14

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Denise Lussier v. Bob’s Aluminum Supply and Robert Lamy
Allegations: Failure to complete proposed three-season room in accordance with contract: $29,484
Filed: 12/15/14

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company v. SMP Real Estate Investment & Development Company, LLC d/b/a SMP Realty Development, LLC
Allegations: Balance owed for insurance premiums: $7,778.56
Filed: 12/23/14

Ted Ondrick Company, LLC v. GML Construction Inc. and Victor R. O’Brien Jr.
Allegations: Non-payment of construction materials and landscaping services rendered: $20,768.19
Filed: 12/16/14

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
W.W. Grainger Inc. v. Odd Job Doctor Inc.
Allegations: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $9,448.90
Filed: 11/13/14

Picture This

By
Departments Picture This

Send photos with a caption and contact information to: ‘Picture This’ c/o BusinessWest Magazine, 1441 Main Street, Springfield, MA 01103 or to [email protected]

PicThis0115b

Hoophall Honors

From left, Springfield College President Mary-Beth Cooper, sport management major Emily Vance, Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame President and CEO John Doleva, and sport management major Eric Pouliot take part in the 2015 Hoophall Classic Leadership Award ceremony on Jan. 19 at Blake Arena on the college campus.  Both Vance and Pouliot were named the 2015 Hoophall Classic Leadership Award recipients, an honor that recognizes both a male and female junior majoring in sport management who has demonstrated a combination of service to Springfield College and the Hoophall Classic, and who has maintained a successful grade point average.

Building Permits

By
Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of January 2015.

CHICOPEE

A& C Fernandes, LLC
800 Sheridan St.
$135,000 — Build 80’ x 60’ garage

Falls View Apartments
30 West Main St.
$25,000 — Strip and re-roof

Federal Home Loan
648 Montgomery St.
$4,000 — Install vinyl siding

LUDLOW

BlackDiamond Development
483 Holyoke St.
$240,000 — Interior alterations

Gremio Lusitana Club
385 Winsor St.
$23,000 — Alterations

Mateus
14 Worcester St.
$18,000 — Commercial alterations

Pioneer Sewall
360 Sewall St.
$30,000 — Install siding

Western Mass Area Development
100 State St.
$4,000 — Alterations

NORTHAMPTON

Atwood Drive, LLC
22 Atwood Dr.
$18,000 — Replace 9 antenna panels

CFP Properties, LLC
320 Riverside Dr.
$22,000 —Renovate interior for brewery

Coolidge Park Condos
50 Union St.
$22,000 — Repair stairs

Smith College
69 Paradise Road
$8,600,000 — Construct five two-story dormitories

Stop & Shop Supermarket
228 King St.
$263,000 — Build-out for Moe’s Southwest Grill

Suffolk St. Real Estate Trust, LLC
182 King St.
$50,000 — Replace roof

SOUTH HADLEY

Mt. Holyoke College
50 College St.
$25,000 — Install cell tower

Mt. Holyoke College
50 College St.
$18,000 — Renovations

Western Mass Girls Scouts
274 Amherst Road
$12,500 — Install cell tower

SPRINGFIELD

BC Colonial Estates
One Beacon Circle
$401,000 — Interior renovations of existing 10,000-square-foot community building

FL Roberts Company
275 Albany St.
$4,500 — Interior renovations

Inland Management, LLC
800 Boston Road
$17,000 — Minor remodel of existing Kohl’s beauty area

Pizza Royal
161 Boston Road
$41,000 — Reconstruct storefront

WESTFIELD

Pilgrim Union Realty Trust
16 Union Ave.
$5,500 — Interior renovations

William Sorel
530 Pochassic Road
$40,000 — Replace metal building

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Baystate Fuel Oil
20 Roanoke Ave.
$9,000 — Strip and Re-roof

Fred Aaron
145E Riverdale St.
$3,000 — Minor interior renovations to a retail space

Kent Pecoy
215 Baldwin St.
$50,000 – Install new pitched roof

Plastic Packaging Corporation
1227 Union St.
$60,000 — Renovate two existing bathrooms

Tesla Motors
935 Riverdale St.
$120,000 – Charging station for electrical vehicles

William Keavany
46 Daggett Dr.
$625,000 — Interior renovation for a tenant space

Real Estate Transactions

By
Departments Real Estate

The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BERNARDSTON

219 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Craig S. White
Seller: Joel M. Cole
Date: 12/12/14

165 Merrifield Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $177,000
Buyer: Joshua McMahon
Seller: UMass Five College Federal Credit Union
Date: 12/15/14

74 West Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Merton E. Fisher
Seller: Melinda D. Connors
Date: 12/11/14

BUCKLAND

22 Wellington St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Justin T. Bardwell
Seller: Richard L. Bardwell
Date: 12/15/14

COLRAIN

42 Adamsville Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Judith A. Slowinski
Seller: James F. Underwood
Date: 12/17/14

181 Call Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $124,000
Buyer: Oona Morrow
Seller: Martina Kacurova
Date: 12/18/14

ERVING

71 State Road
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $215,750
Buyer: Jay R. Niedbala
Seller: Erwin P. Steiner
Date: 12/12/14

GREENFIELD

19-21 Alden St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $134,000
Buyer: Samantha J. Brook
Seller: Richard Brook
Date: 12/22/14

230 Barton Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: John J. Demo
Seller: Cindy T. Mason
Date: 12/10/14

643 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Joseph N. Ruggeri
Seller: Richard E. Sigda
Date: 12/19/14

309 Conway St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Valley Farms Properties
Seller: Adam T. Marchacos
Date: 12/12/14

3 Greenway Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Regina A. Henry
Seller: Stanley K. Holmes
Date: 12/16/14

271 Log Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Mathew J. Lindner
Seller: Craig S. White
Date: 12/12/14

26 Mary Potter Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Emmy Y. Phelps
Seller: Thomas J. Thompson
Date: 12/16/14

81 Meadowood Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Amy S. Burnside
Seller: Robert L. Cummings
Date: 12/19/14

128 Mountain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Kenneth A. Shurman
Seller: Marlowe, Linda C., (Estate)
Date: 12/22/14

21 Prospect Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Pamela G. Adams
Seller: Joseph N. Ruggeri
Date: 12/19/14

26 Sunrise Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Ethier
Seller: Peter F. Fein
Date: 12/16/14

MONTAGUE

223 Federal St.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $184,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Goscenski
Seller: Frederick R. Momaney
Date: 12/09/14

NORTHFIELD

9 Pine Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Meredith A. Brouillette
Seller: Martha E. Stinson
Date: 12/26/14

ORANGE

15 Meadow Lane
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Michael J. Verock
Seller: Nathan P. Burdick
Date: 12/22/14

SHELBURNE

9 Barnard Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $184,000
Buyer: Peter A. Buchanan
Seller: DRC RT
Date: 12/17/14

655 Patten Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Anne I. Naughton
Seller: Lawrence W. Bruns
Date: 12/24/14

450 South Shelburne Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Luke R. Dejnak
Seller: Regina A. Henry
Date: 12/16/14

106 Shelburne Center Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $252,500
Buyer: Richard M. Miller
Seller: Diane D. Rapp
Date: 12/17/14

SUNDERLAND

137 Hadley Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $274,900
Buyer: Jens Meinig
Seller: Nancy Bachand
Date: 12/19/14

WARWICK

520 Orange Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jamie D. Munson
Seller: Rummell, Joseph G., (Estate)
Date: 12/23/14

WHATELY

Long Plain Road
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $132,500
Buyer: Walter R. Thayer
Seller: Diana Kelly
Date: 12/18/14

Masterson Road (ES)
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Fleming Pancione FT
Seller: Louise D. Hannum TR
Date: 12/09/14

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

9 2 If By St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Michael J. Millett
Seller: Robert Roy
Date: 12/11/14

523 Franklin St. Ext.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Charlene A. Harnish
Seller: Elizabeth Demaio
Date: 12/19/14

41 Hemlock Ridge
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Kevin A. Ritchie
Seller: Dorothy M. Plante
Date: 12/12/14

456 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Francis Detoma
Seller: Circosta, Dorothy, (Estate)
Date: 12/11/14

70 Provin Mountain Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Alfred T. Ingham
Seller: Robert S. Nelsen
Date: 12/23/14

170 River Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Petr Privedenyuk
Seller: Major, Marion T., (Estate)
Date: 12/17/14

29 Senator Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Sage L. Lteif
Seller: Laura L. Sullivan
Date: 12/12/14

22 Simpson Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $150,898
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Jennifer L. Graveline
Date: 12/22/14

604 South West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Anton Melnikov
Seller: Sandra L. Messenger
Date: 12/08/14

577 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Yelena Baranov
Seller: Charles R. Kronoff
Date: 12/19/14

235 Valley Brook Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Lindsey N. Surprenant
Seller: Richard H. Wodell
Date: 12/17/14

Valley Brook Road (rear)
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Lindsey N. Surprenant
Seller: Richard H. Wodell
Date: 12/17/14

BLANDFORD

5 Glasgow Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Buyer: Daniel J. Gelina
Seller: Rebecca L. Lagasse
Date: 12/18/14

16 Russell Stage Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Berkshire Land Co. LLC
Seller: Donna L. Arnold
Date: 12/19/14

BRIMFIELD

27 7th St.
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $412,500
Buyer: Michael Maysky
Seller: Matthew A. Toth
Date: 12/08/14

27 Sturbridge Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Rusty J. Corriveau
Seller: Adolph S. Jurczyk
Date: 12/12/14

203 Wales Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Lauren Temple
Seller: Susan E. Caldbeck
Date: 12/22/14

CHESTER

96 Middlefield Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Dennis J. Rabtor
Seller: Carl M. Baldasaro
Date: 12/19/14

CHICOPEE

67 7th Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Casandra Kobylanski
Seller: Donna M. Bitzer-Langlois
Date: 12/12/14

57 Arthur St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $251,000
Buyer: Stephanie M. Potter
Seller: David C. Labrie
Date: 12/19/14

68 Boileau Terrace
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Brian A. Moreau
Seller: Ronald G. Moreau
Date: 12/15/14

430 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $154,000
Buyer: Richard P. Mienkowski
Seller: Cecilia G. Znoj
Date: 12/23/14

82 Dillon St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Rufino Rodriguez
Seller: Oscar Velazquez
Date: 12/19/14

7 Dunn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $215,500
Buyer: Robert M. Stahlberg
Seller: GFY Enterprises LLC
Date: 12/19/14

31 East St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: 91 East Park Inc.
Seller: 18 Piece Chicopee LLC
Date: 12/15/14

39 East St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: 91 East Park Inc.
Seller: 18 Piece Chicopee LLC
Date: 12/15/14

14 Fairmont St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Kyle R. Larose
Seller: Carol L. Edwards
Date: 12/19/14

57 Felix St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Christina M. McCoy
Seller: Evelyn Robinson
Date: 12/15/14

74 Hampden St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Grzegorz Czartoryski
Seller: Sacadura, Carlos J., (Estate)
Date: 12/24/14

70 Marguerite St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Steven D. Duffy
Seller: Joseph W. Duffy
Date: 12/19/14

882 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $147,355
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Matthew Messer
Date: 12/10/14

88 Moore St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Joseph T. Trombley
Seller: Alfred C. Bobek
Date: 12/19/14

56 Mount Carmel Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $126,000
Buyer: Valley Opportunity Council
Seller: Scott L. Caney
Date: 12/12/14

95 Nash St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $143,000
Buyer: Kathleen Reed
Seller: Lauria C. Demers
Date: 12/23/14

265 New Ludlow Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $3,732,000
Buyer: Mason Manor LLC
Seller: Manor Realty Apts. LLP
Date: 12/08/14

443 New Ludlow Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Rihab A. Zubaidi
Seller: Albert R. Beaulieu
Date: 12/10/14

59 New Ludlow Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $4,226,000
Buyer: Partridge Hollow Apts. LLC
Seller: PH Realty Apts. LLP
Date: 12/08/14

425 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Jeremy Durand
Seller: Paul E. Lafleur
Date: 12/23/14

36 State St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Bradley V. Schultzki
Seller: James A. Brough
Date: 12/19/14

29 Sullivan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: Elizabeth A. Rabtor
Seller: Kathleen M. Gay
Date: 12/15/14

EAST LONGMEADOW

115 Chestnut St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $133,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jeane W. Clay
Date: 12/11/14

116 Colony Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Steve Wenninger
Seller: US Bank
Date: 12/23/14

73 Hanward Hill
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Paul A. Jorczak
Seller: Raymond I. Weiner
Date: 12/08/14

345 Kibbe Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $371,000
Buyer: Brendan A. Greeley
Seller: Barry M. Stephens
Date: 12/16/14

21 Kingman Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Christian A. Martin
Seller: Daniel A. Mastroianni
Date: 12/15/14

30 Mill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Michael Carabetta
Seller: Dawn Q. Zimmerman
Date: 12/12/14

139 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Leonard A. Scarnici
Seller: Ruth M. Sulser
Date: 12/12/14

381 Pease Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Bryan H. Joyce
Seller: Christopher J. Wakefield
Date: 12/12/14

384 Pease Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Larry L. Stone
Seller: Richard W. Westerberg
Date: 12/16/14

231 Prospect St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Tracee A. Smith
Seller: Bretta Construction LLC
Date: 12/11/14

140 Westwood Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: William P. Kane
Seller: Raymond C. Caputo
Date: 12/19/14

2 Winterberry Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $387,000
Buyer: Douglas R. Bessette
Seller: Winterberry LLC
Date: 12/11/14

GRANVILLE

7 Crest Lane
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Melissa Yezierski
Seller: Patricia A. Turner
Date: 12/11/14

631 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: R. S. Cook
Seller: Theresa H. Phelon
Date: 12/22/14

HAMPDEN

24 Brookside Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Ephraim Carron
Seller: Stephen B. Crafts
Date: 12/19/14

9 Deerfield Circle
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Linda T. Roy
Seller: Ottilie Owsijuk
Date: 12/08/14

HOLLAND

7 Hamilton Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $245,500
Buyer: Kim R. Horyn
Seller: Steven T. Anderson
Date: 12/12/14

64 South Cottage Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: James A. Reith
Seller: Leeanna Babineau
Date: 12/18/14

HOLYOKE

6 Appleton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Anderson Industries LLC
Seller: S&N Industries Inc.
Date: 12/12/14

143 Brown Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $146,145
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Anthony Soto
Date: 12/17/14

18-20 Canal St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $441,250
Buyer: American Supplies & Rental
Seller: CK Realty LLP
Date: 12/16/14

90 Carlton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $254,500
Buyer: Nao Sakurai
Seller: Justin J. Carven
Date: 12/19/14

74 County Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Nicholas W. Kane
Seller: William F. Kane
Date: 12/16/14

66 Fairfield Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Marco Crescentini
Seller: Steven A. Wardlaw
Date: 12/18/14

12 Florence Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Abby W. Ingram
Seller: Brian D. Michaud
Date: 12/16/14

18 Hemlock Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Patrick J. Clayton
Seller: Alan Czerniak
Date: 12/08/14

77-79 Hitchcock St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $155,000
Seller: Kathleen Wresien
Date: 12/18/14

349-351 Main St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Cook & Assocs. Property Investment
Seller: Cedarstone Management LLC
Date: 12/08/14

8 Michelle Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $379,900
Buyer: Fritz Schmidt
Seller: J. N. Duquette & Son Construction
Date: 12/23/14

39 Moss Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Tyler D. Spath
Seller: Laura R. Christoph
Date: 12/11/14

111 Nonotuck St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $194,000
Buyer: Michelle L. Walsh
Seller: Jeanne Taylor
Date: 12/08/14

22 Old Rock Valley Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $249,900
Buyer: Jessica A. Messier
Seller: Dicarlo, Patricia, (Estate)
Date: 12/23/14

282-284 Suffolk St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $528,000
Buyer: Holyoke Property Management LLC
Seller: Nottingham Place LLC
Date: 12/12/14

LONGMEADOW

247 Crestview Circle
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Goetz
Seller: J&D Realty LLP
Date: 12/15/14

48 Drury Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Andrew C. Matz
Seller: James R. Willett
Date: 12/11/14

108 Homestead Blvd.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Leonard Groeneveld
Seller: Karen A. Lapienski
Date: 12/23/14

99 Knollwood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Maximilian J. Bennett
Seller: Barbara M. Whitehouse
Date: 12/19/14

80 Longview Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $284,572
Buyer: Jason L. Boggus
Seller: Barbara A. Young
Date: 12/19/14

1617 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Mark W. Baker
Seller: Daniel V. Dineen
Date: 12/12/14

196 Meadowlark Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: William Raleigh
Seller: Donoghue, Thomas J., (Estate)
Date: 12/17/14

54 Ridge Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $237,413
Buyer: Tiffany Shapiro
Seller: Paul D. Feen
Date: 12/12/14

96 Tanglewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $765,000
Buyer: Arun S. Uthayashankar
Seller: Robert B. Schwerin
Date: 12/12/14

LUDLOW

Dinis St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Jorge S. Laires
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 12/22/14

286 Fuller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Gregory R. Gay
Seller: Robert P. Fido
Date: 12/10/14

35 Karen Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Eric W. King
Seller: Lauren A. Dansereau
Date: 12/26/14

135 Lockland Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Judie M. Garceau
Seller: Vincent A. Gabriello
Date: 12/19/14

31 Maple St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Eric A. Pescetta
Seller: Eric W. King
Date: 12/24/14

36 McKinley Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Daniel Archambault
Seller: Charlotte A. Clough
Date: 12/08/14

43 Watt Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $154,000
Buyer: Desare Easley
Seller: Robert G. Gordon
Date: 12/12/14

137 West Akard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Katimae Strycharz
Seller: Lloyd A. Mills
Date: 12/24/14

236 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Michele M. Aguilar
Seller: Jan E. Reynolds-Ziter
Date: 12/10/14

673 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Laura L. Poehler
Seller: Bethany A. Ketchale
Date: 12/17/14

55 Yale St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Brian Chaffee
Seller: Joseph M. Dasilva
Date: 12/09/14

MONSON

32 Green St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $150,000
Seller: Roberto Botta
Date: 12/15/14

10 Moores Cross Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $326,000
Buyer: Elizabeth A. Clarke
Seller: Tina M. Elgin
Date: 12/08/14

156 Stafford Hollow Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $226,000
Buyer: Michelle Heroux
Seller: David F. Fratini
Date: 12/17/14

187 Wilbraham Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $183,500
Buyer: Matthew J. Guerri
Seller: Polish National Credit Union
Date: 12/23/14

MONTGOMERY

219 Pitcher St.
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Charles S. Wheeler
Seller: Richard J. Champigny
Date: 12/19/14

PALMER

307 Breckenridge St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Alexander R. Zerwitz
Seller: John W. Lizak RET
Date: 12/19/14

4073-4075 Church St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Donald R. Wood
Seller: Catherine M. Barnes
Date: 12/19/14

41 Ruggles St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Kaileen A. Russell
Seller: Pamela A. Robak
Date: 12/26/14

46 Strong St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Justin V. Bailey
Seller: Gail L. Conde
Date: 12/12/14

14 Whalen St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Jeshua G. Charette
Seller: Scott A. Anderson
Date: 12/19/14

21 Whalen St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Monica L. Turgeon
Seller: Scott Lincourt
Date: 12/19/14

RUSSELL

450 Dickinson Hill Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Bryan K. Hawley
Seller: Brett A. Stevens
Date: 12/10/14

Dickinson Hill Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Brenton Keefe
Seller: Frederick J. Wojick
Date: 12/16/14

SOUTHWICK

107 Coes Hill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $346,000
Buyer: Daniel A. Nicholson
Seller: Karen B. Legace
Date: 12/15/14

241 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Benjamin Hallmark
Seller: Benjamin Hallmark
Date: 12/09/14

143 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $134,500
Buyer: Melissa A. Shanahan
Seller: Strong, Kenneth W., (Estate)
Date: 12/12/14

11 Granville Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: John Lynch
Seller: Dori Neuwirth
Date: 12/19/14

64 Honey Pot Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Michael J. Kuzdzal
Seller: Angela D. Delbuono
Date: 12/22/14

73 Klaus Anderson Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Francis A. Mancini
Seller: Michael P. Paulin
Date: 12/08/14

47 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Harry L. Opal
Seller: Raymond W. Zenkert
Date: 12/12/14

292 North Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Anthony J. Dorsey
Seller: Tessier, Joseph H. Jr., (Estate)
Date: 12/17/14

297 North Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $229,900
Buyer: Angela D. Delbuono
Seller: Valerie Lane
Date: 12/22/14

132 South Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $222,500
Buyer: Richard J. Girard
Seller: Paul A. Miles
Date: 12/12/14

144 South Longyard Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $194,900
Buyer: Joseph A. Menzone
Seller: Barbara A. Miffert
Date: 12/23/14

SPRINGFIELD

81 Alexander St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

115 Arcadia Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Joseph B. Lewis
Seller: Denise M. Dangelantonio
Date: 12/15/14

24-26 Beauregard St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Delissa S. Kraus
Seller: Edwin Torres
Date: 12/23/14

411 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Mister Mister LLC
Seller: Hallerin Realty LLP
Date: 12/11/14

906-908 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: 906-908 Belmont RT
Seller: John Olszewski

234 Birchland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Dion Creative Construction LLC
Seller: Grace A. Lavalley
Date: 12/19/14

50 Bissell St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $130,579
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Maria Rivas
Date: 12/22/14

16 Bliss St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $8,400,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: C&W Real Estate Co. LLC
Date: 12/12/14

27 Bliss St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $8,400,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: C&W Real Estate Co. LLC
Date: 12/12/14

53-57 Bliss St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: 300 State St Realty Co.
Date: 12/12/14

Bliss St. (SS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: Lyman Taylor Realty Co.
Date: 12/12/14

21 Brentwood St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Ronald Doe
Seller: Kristen M. Smidy
Date: 12/19/14

80 Burns Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: John W. Kiah
Seller: Darlene F. Sandman
Date: 12/18/14

1508-1514 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $124,425
Buyer: Yuk Chang
Seller: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Date: 12/22/14

246 Central St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $119,415
Buyer: AHAP LLC
Seller: JJS Capital Investment LLC
Date: 12/24/14

5 Crest St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Nelson Rios
Seller: Angela Cosenzi
Date: 12/17/14

22-24 Crown St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

1524-1526 Dwight St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

1357 East Columbus Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: Lyman Taylor Realty Co.
Date: 12/12/14

94 Eddywood St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $119,900
Buyer: Sarah Bys
Seller: Center Court Apts. LLC
Date: 12/22/14

64 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

52 Fresno St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Brittney T. Karowski
Seller: Brian P. Heroux
Date: 12/17/14

109 Gardens Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Ernestina C. Bess
Seller: Colleen E. Palmer
Date: 12/12/14

271 Gifford St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $148,500
Buyer: Abrah N. Orth
Seller: Maureen K. McNeely
Date: 12/22/14

106 Gillette Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Brianna H. Stellato
Seller: Mary T. Petrone
Date: 12/22/14

187 Hampshire St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

21-23 Harlan St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $116,500
Buyer: Nancy Santiago
Seller: Patricia A. Fairbanks
Date: 12/08/14

131 Hastings St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $119,900
Buyer: Robert Wanzo
Seller: Sergey Savonin
Date: 12/22/14

24 Helberg Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: James P. Habel
Seller: Curtis K. Andrews
Date: 12/12/14

34 Herman St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Janet R. Topey
Seller: Ly T. San
Date: 12/17/14

Howard St. (NS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $4,450,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: Lyman Taylor Realty Co.
Date: 12/12/14

Howard St (NS)
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Red LLC
Seller: Marvin Gardens of Conn. LLC
Date: 12/22/14

26 Howard St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $4,450,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: Lyman Taylor Realty Co.
Date: 12/12/14

48 Howard St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: 300 State St Realty Co.
Date: 12/12/14

10 Ingraham Terrace
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hampden Bank
Seller: Alan James LLC
Date: 12/12/14

12 Ingraham Terrace
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hampden Bank
Seller: Alan James LLC
Date: 12/12/14

29 Joanne Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Brandon A. Lapointe
Seller: Sherry O’Neill
Date: 12/09/14

17 Keddy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Steven R. Dudeck
Seller: William Lambros
Date: 12/19/14

72 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

25-27 Kopernick St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Anthony C. Fowler
Seller: Henry A. Lizon
Date: 12/09/14

260 Lake Dr.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $161,000
Buyer: Ronald Krupke
Seller: Virgilio Rios
Date: 12/10/14

88 Lorimer St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $124,000
Buyer: Justin C. Tracy
Seller: Deborah M. Tracy
Date: 12/10/14

29 Louis Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Irene Kaminaris
Seller: Church In Acres
Date: 12/17/14

19 Macomber Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Karen Laughlin
Seller: Terrence M. Leahy
Date: 12/09/14

83 Magnolia Terrace
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Mark R. Blackmon
Seller: Stephen H. Cosenke
Date: 12/22/14

1008 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $2,135,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Red LLC
Seller: David R. Dudley
Date: 12/23/14

1090-1104 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Red LLC
Seller: Main & Howard Realty LLC
Date: 12/23/14

1106-1114 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: C&W Equities LLC
Date: 12/12/14

1156-1178 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: M&I Frost Realty LLC
Date: 12/12/14

1200 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $8,400,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: C&W Real Estate Co. LLC
Date: 12/12/14

67-69 Massachusetts Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Joshua A. Reid
Seller: Akinlabi Olawuni
Date: 12/16/14

52 Mattoon St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Chart Organization LLC
Seller: Susan N. Rice
Date: 12/08/14

370 Nottingham St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $161,349
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Carlos M. Seixas
Date: 12/23/14

62-64 Olmsted Dr.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Hyacinth C. Henry
Seller: JJS Capital Investment LLC
Date: 12/19/14

76-78 Olmsted Dr.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Kevin K. Darjee
Seller: Brian J. Cunnane
Date: 12/09/14

1070 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $169,900
Buyer: Brian G. Howard
Seller: Kathleen Beane
Date: 12/23/14

153 Plainfield St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $559,000
Buyer: TMRE LLC
Seller: RAM Construction LLC
Date: 12/17/14

1291 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $131,875
Buyer: Christopher T. Phelps
Seller: Kathleen A. Hydal
Date: 12/15/14

45 Pocantico Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: Patrick M. McGinity
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank NA
Date: 12/16/14

408 Roosevelt Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Muna Tiwari
Seller: William J. Lodi
Date: 12/12/14

198 Saffron Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $156,500
Buyer: Luis A. Lopez
Seller: Jennifer L. Cianflone
Date: 12/18/14

106 Saint James Circle
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Jennie Rivera-Gonzalez
Seller: Phillip A. Lees
Date: 12/23/14

1271 Saint James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Freddy Correa
Seller: Jabir Jebir
Date: 12/11/14

128 Shawmut St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $116,000
Buyer: Andrew Famiglietti
Seller: Mary M. Wright
Date: 12/19/14

Spring St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Britalian LLC
Seller: Abdou Mourad
Date: 12/08/14

95 State St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $8,400,000
Buyer: Blue Tarp Redevelopment
Seller: C&W Real Estate Co. LLC
Date: 12/12/14

1079 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $122,000
Buyer: Marta Subira
Seller: Daniel J. Murray
Date: 12/12/14

167 Sunrise Terrace
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: Jose M. Sanchez
Seller: Mario A. Campora
Date: 12/23/14

53 Talmadge Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: Damrais Morales
Seller: James W. Fiore
Date: 12/09/14

23 Treetop Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $140,071
Buyer: Bank New York
Seller: Beverly Gomes
Date: 12/10/14

3 Ventura St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: 855 Liberty Springfield LLC
Seller: Corey Fisher
Date: 12/12/14

50-52 Vermont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

288 West Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $121,000
Buyer: Arlene F. Howe
Seller: Paula J. Hodecker
Date: 12/11/14

77 Wilmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Catfish Properties LLC
Seller: Macfish Properties LLC
Date: 12/12/14

65 Wilshire Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Steven R. Gaynor
Seller: FHLM
Date: 12/16/14

800 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $209,769
Buyer: Super Worcester LLC
Seller: Beam Worcester Street LLC
Date: 12/11/14

1391-1393 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $179,900
Buyer: Trevor W. Gordon
Seller: Grace Dias
Date: 12/16/14

557 Worthington St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Britalian LLC
Seller: Abdou Mourad
Date: 12/08/14

TOLLAND

16 Chipmunk Xing
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Gregory T. Ullen
Seller: Stephen P. Thomas
Date: 12/19/14

WESTFIELD

28 Butternut Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Justin A. Tietze
Seller: Martin P. Bannish
Date: 12/12/14

1 Crown St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Kyle T. Smith
Seller: Kathleen T. Miller
Date: 12/12/14

178 Llewellyn Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Paul A. Miles
Seller: Cynthia J. Geiger
Date: 12/12/14

253 Granville Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $167,600
Buyer: Janet Ruiz
Seller: Clifford J. Edgerton
Date: 12/10/14

6 Highland Ave.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: James M. Moriarty
Seller: Patricia A. O’Brien
Date: 12/12/14

135 Hillside Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Elena Pascal
Seller: Daniel G. Kotowski
Date: 12/09/14

52 Janelle Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Jason Polan
Seller: Fernando J. Carreira
Date: 12/23/14

23 Meadowbrook Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Karl Baush
Seller: Deane, Truxton, (Estate)
Date: 12/09/14

257 Montgomery Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $323,500
Buyer: Paul E. Cesan
Seller: Bent Tree Development LLC
Date: 12/18/14

N/A
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Joseph J. Maslar
Seller: Donna J. Forte
Date: 12/24/14

76 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: East Mountain Inc.
Seller: William F. Barry
Date: 12/22/14

Sackett Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Marc J. Denoncourt
Seller: Gordon T. Smith
Date: 12/09/14

100 Squawfield Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: James E. Davenport
Seller: Laurene B. Bertera
Date: 12/23/14

WEST SPRINGFIELD

70 Garden St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Christopher A. Yager
Seller: Louis W. Champiney
Date: 12/22/14

34 Harwich Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $220,000
Seller: Hugh B. Mickel
Date: 12/22/14

39 Irving St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Denis Rahubenco
Seller: Matthew B. Gray
Date: 12/24/14

24 Kelly Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $181,500
Buyer: Thomas L. Sudnick
Seller: Patricia M. Marotte
Date: 12/09/14

134 Main St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Gulnara Lachinova
Seller: James W. Fiore
Date: 12/19/14

1059-1071 Memorial Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Shreeji Shayona LLC
Seller: Brian C. Slayton
Date: 12/12/14

45 Merrick St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Maytham A. Almashhadi
Seller: KOT Realty Co. LLC
Date: 12/12/14

133 Morton St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Betsy Arseneau
Seller: Carol L. Young
Date: 12/08/14

103 Ohio Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $272,000
Buyer: Lizbeth T. Doubleday
Seller: Peter J. Bushnell
Date: 12/08/14

67 South Blvd.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Maria Rivera
Seller: Vitaly Dzhenzherukha
Date: 12/24/14

WILBRAHAM

15 Bellows Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $417,500
Buyer: William J. Aguilar
Seller: Thomas E. Leoni
Date: 12/12/14

12 Glenn Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jeanne D. Kubik
Date: 12/22/14

3 Longfellow Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $222,000
Buyer: Melanie A. Secundino
Seller: Carol A. Ball
Date: 12/18/14

33 Longview Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $246,500
Buyer: Aniello Denardo
Seller: Peter N. Hassiotis
Date: 12/18/14

499 Ridge Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Elizabeth J. Pecoy
Seller: Joel K. Pecoy
Date: 12/19/14

Soule Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $249,900
Buyer: Mary T. Petrone
Seller: Richard C. Teed
Date: 12/17/14

75 Springfield St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Joseph A. Pellegrino
Seller: Nancy S. Williamson
Date: 12/26/14

740 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Richard T. Martins
Seller: Norman F. Rauscher
Date: 12/17/14

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

31 Blossom Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Marie A. Hess
Seller: Barbara G. Rollinson
Date: 12/11/14

49 Glendale Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Martha Toro
Seller: Elizabeth B. Musto
Date: 12/08/14

758 North Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: HGMS LLC
Seller: HAZ 2 LLC
Date: 12/19/14

1057 North Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: North East Awad Group LLC
Seller: 1057 N. Pleasant St. RT
Date: 12/12/14

149 Pomeroy Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Adriana Powell
Seller: May L. Chen
Date: 12/10/14

261 Potwine Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Eric J. Gonzales
Seller: Robert A. Levitt
Date: 12/12/14

BELCHERTOWN

20 Green Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Michael J. Bishop
Seller: Wanda L. Cote
Date: 12/23/14

20 Hemlock Hollow
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $217,348
Buyer: Nataliya B. Versace
Seller: USA HUD
Date: 12/12/14

107 Howard St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Lynn M. Arthur
Seller: Bryan D. Adamski
Date: 12/18/14

45 Jabish St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Allen F. Wentworth
Seller: Oberly, Clare M., (Estate)
Date: 12/22/14

44 Maple St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Max W. Bock
Seller: Ellen L. Lord
Date: 12/19/14

56 Pine St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Sarah F. Zelechoski
Seller: Betty P. Lamery
Date: 12/19/14

136 Railroad St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Steven R. George
Seller: Melva L. Toutant
Date: 12/23/14

S Gulf Road #6
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Heidi A. Dollard
Seller: Robert Mileski
Date: 12/15/14

356 Springfield Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Grace Lavalley
Seller: Dion Creative Construction Inc.
Date: 12/19/14

EASTHAMPTON

45 Kingsberry Way
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Katie A. Morin
Seller: Crown Meadow Corp.
Date: 12/19/14

12-14 Knipfer Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Kevin P. Larkin
Seller: Kevin C. Netto
Date: 12/11/14

53 Mount Tom Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Richard T. Schlosser
Seller: Donald Carr TR
Date: 12/08/14

1 Park Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Sandra M. Costello
Seller: Robert A. Canon
Date: 12/18/14

10 River Valley Way
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $278,334
Buyer: Nathan A. Costa
Seller: EH Homeownership LLC
Date: 12/23/14

95 Union St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Cheryl S. Campbell
Seller: Judy D. Peloquin
Date: 12/16/14

43 Westview Terrace
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $289,500
Buyer: Sarah A. Liles
Seller: Henry R. Geryk
Date: 12/12/14

GRANBY

266 Batchelor St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $270,100
Buyer: Julie R. Jackson
Seller: Lafleur & Son Inc.
Date: 12/08/14

122 Carver St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Alexandr Nejelski
Seller: US Bank
Date: 12/22/14

HADLEY

82 Bay Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $259,000
Buyer: Fikriye King
Seller: William Korzec
Date: 12/10/14

15 Frost Lane
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Walter C. Schaeffler
Seller: Lois A. Hartman
Date: 12/19/14

11 Indian Pipe Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $583,000
Buyer: Guoping Zhang
Seller: Bercume Construction LLC
Date: 12/23/14

4 Indian Pipe Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $690,000
Buyer: 4 Indian Pipe Drive TR
Seller: Bercume Construction LLC
Date: 12/17/14

HATFIELD

6 Church Ave.
Hatfield, MA 01088
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Andrew J. Black
Seller: Daniel J. Barch
Date: 12/22/14

40 King St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Scott R. Yarosh
Seller: Dorothy J. Yagodzinski
Date: 12/22/14

HUNTINGTON

11 Kennedy Dr.
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Kathleen F. Harmon
Seller: Rosemary S. Caputo
Date: 12/17/14

NORTHAMPTON

Bridge Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $222,500
Buyer: Harold R. Fitzgerald
Seller: Garrett Fitzgerald
Date: 12/15/14

13 Finn St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $324,000
Buyer: Tyler E. Boudreau
Seller: Kathryn M. Reagan-Talbot
Date: 12/23/14

41 Locust St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: 41 Locust Street LLC
Seller: Omasta LT
Date: 12/16/14

65 Nonotuck St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Mary E. Asher
Seller: Christopher J. Tarvit
Date: 12/10/14

157 North Main St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: John D. Dahl
Seller: Helen Driscoll
Date: 12/23/14

33 Northern Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $319,000
Buyer: Sumanth Prabhaker
Seller: Anne E. White
Date: 12/12/14

22 Phillips Place
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Michael P. Stoddard
Seller: Edward J. Canzano
Date: 12/19/14

222 River Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $3,200,000
Buyer: Leeds Landlord MA LLC
Seller: Overlook Health Center
Date: 12/23/14

24 Summer St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Kevin Brigham
Seller: Brigham FT
Date: 12/19/14

6 Wright Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Mathieu J. Tebo
Seller: John W. Kowalski
Date: 12/12/14

PELHAM

54 Arnold Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $193,800
Buyer: Mary S. Booth
Seller: David L. Parrish
Date: 12/16/14

57 South Valley Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Carol M. Johnson RET
Seller: Zachary B. Rubinstein
Date: 12/12/14

SOUTH HADLEY

50 Bardwell St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Thomas A. Douglas
Seller: Marc A. Bisson
Date: 12/12/14

329 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $467,000
Buyer: Andrew K. Carey
Seller: Scott R. Keen
Date: 12/12/14

7 Landers St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $257,000
Buyer: Amy S. Hermans
Seller: Brian S. McClaflin
Date: 12/17/14

1 Lexington Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Goulet
Seller: Sandra M. Costello
Date: 12/18/14
36 Lincoln Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $164,500
Buyer: Christine Kane
Seller: Rose M. Zdybel
Date: 12/26/14

36 Noel St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: Margaret E. Perri
Seller: Christopher D. Fontaine
Date: 12/12/14

2 Normandy Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Sylke M. Avalo
Seller: Marijcke Lamers-Tilman
Date: 12/26/14

41 Old County Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Jared Carver
Seller: Richard M. Bradley
Date: 12/16/14

416 Pearl St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $385,500
Buyer: Liza G. Smith
Seller: Letellier FT
Date: 12/17/14

7 Ralph Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Kristina F. Nadeau
Seller: Wayne E. Gilbert
Date: 12/19/14

33 Upper River Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Anthony J. Scibelli
Seller: Steven D. Vautrain
Date: 12/23/14

SOUTHAMPTON

18 Camp Jahn Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: William F. Garrand
Seller: Matthew P. Giguere
Date: 12/15/14

9 Glendale Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Meghan L. Labonte
Seller: Charles D. Graves
Date: 12/08/14

6 Nicholas Lane
Southampton, MA 01085
Amount: $440,640
Buyer: Alan B. Czerniak
Seller: James F. Boyle
Date: 12/15/14

Old Harvest Road #12
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: RCT T LLC
Seller: Triple 7 LLC
Date: 12/19/14

Old Harvest Road #7
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Theodore H. Blais
Seller: Triple 7 LLC
Date: 12/24/14

105 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $242,500
Buyer: Sara Lamontagne
Seller: Kevin P. Larkin
Date: 12/11/14

37 Strong Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $475,919
Buyer: Heather A. Vigue
Seller: Thomas M. Bacis
Date: 12/15/14

WARE

58 Cummings Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $116,000
Buyer: Dustin Sanderski TR
Seller: Dennis J. Dennis
Date: 12/19/14

122 North St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Todd Russo
Seller: Todd A. Maki
Date: 12/15/14

124 North St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Todd Russo
Seller: Todd A. Maki
Date: 12/15/14

WESTHAMPTON

101 Montague Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Silvio J. Baruzzi
Seller: Barbara Debold
Date: 12/19/14

WORTHINGTON

116 Huntington Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Frances S. Crossman
Date: 12/23/14

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

Belisle, Donald W.
1098 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Beltrandi, Michael R.
516 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Bianconi, Kristen A.
593 Nassau Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Boisvert, Peter G.
PO Box 106
Becket, MA 01223
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Bonyeau, Daniel F.
50 Beckwith Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/24/14

Boucher, Michelle L.
a/k/a Cornelius, Michelle
78 Smyrna St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Bouley, Edmund Albert
Bouley, Dorothy Ann
206 Regency Park Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Bullock, Theresa M.
127 Aldrich St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/22/14

Cloutier, Kathleen L.
40 Ludlow Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Dombek, Richard M.
Boudreau, Janice E.
36 Maplecrest Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Dufrane, Joshua M.
45 Homestretch Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Goncalves, Jose A.
436-438 Franklin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Goncalves, Manuel J.
143 Pine Cone Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/14

Gurley, Ladd G.
30 High St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/14

Haqq, Siddeeq R.
77 Westford Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/22/14

Horsfall, Kimberly A.
a/k/a LaVinge, Kimberly A.
32 Blackinton St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/24/14

Jorgensen, Lorri L.
a/k/a MacDonald, Lorri L.
28 River Road, Apt. 1
Sunderland, MA 01375
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Justice, Barbara
31 Tumbleweed Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/18/14

Kopeski, Louis C.
6 Emerson Court
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/19/14

LaPointe, Mark W.
87 Prospect St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Nicosia, Paul J.
29 Dover St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Norman, Marie R.
123 Beaver St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Norwood, Gregory Francis
Norwood, Heather Lee
110 Millers Falls Road
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/22/14

Owsiak, Tiffany L.
211 Winsor St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Owsiak, Donald E.
30 Everett St., 2nd Fl.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Pare’, Warren L.
PO Box 486
Chicopee, MA 01021
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/29/14

Parsons, Barbara
31 Tumbleweed Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/18/14

Raymond, Eric J.
71 Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Riley, Darren J.
99 Madison St., Apt. #2
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/17/14

Romero, Jose A.
11 Evergreen Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Roush, Gregory S.
Roush, Kimberly J.
155 Ramblewood Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Shea, James M.
Shea, Tami J.
73 Bither St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/24/14

St. Charles, Edward J.
27 Breckneck Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/29/14

St. Gelais, Ann M.
7 Elmville Place
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/30/14

Sullivan, Heidi L.
756A Bemis Road
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/23/14

Thayer-Reid, Susan
786 Pleasant St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/19/14

Vogel, Craig V.
Vogel, Maria M.
83 Powder Mill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/31/14

Editorial

By
Features Opinion
Free Community College: A Worthy Concept

President Obama proposed plans for providing a free community-college education for many students at his State of the Union address last week. The proposal, “America’s College Promise,” which would benefit an estimated 9 million students annually, is still very much in the formative stages, and there are a number of rather sizeable hurdles to be cleared before this concept can advance, let alone become reality, but we believe the proposal should be given full consideration and at least a chance to succeed.

Why? Because, as we’ve said on many occasions, the key to economic growth and prosperity for this region — and one of the keys to closing the huge income gap between the haves and the have-nots in this state and across the country — is education, and free community college for those who qualify is a possible place to start.

Not everyone who attends community college goes on to graduate — in fact, far more than half don’t — or get a good-paying job, and these facts won’t change if such an education suddenly becomes available free of charge. But such a development could have enormous potential to prompt more people to start college and finish it. And since one needs a high-school diploma, or the equivalent, like a GED, to get into a community college, it makes sense that providing that option free would inspire more people to stay in school.

And that’s important in communities like Springfield and Holyoke, where high school drop-out rates are sky high and a major contributor to poverty and a growing skills gap within the workforce.

But let’s back up a minute. Free community college as a national policy is certainly a long shot. The principal problem is funding it. Under the plan the president is proposing, estimated to cost $60 billion over a decade, states would have to pay roughly 25% of the cost.

Well, this state, according to Gov. Charlie Baker, is facing a budget gap of roughly $765 million, and none of the options for closing that gap are particularly attractive. And there are many states in that same boat.

Beyond the fiscal challenges, though, there are some stern logistical challenges as well. Can community colleges like the four in this region handle a surge in their student populations? Perhaps, but not easily and not without expansion of current infrastructure and the hiring of more teachers and administrators, which would greatly increase the program’s price tag.

Also, whenever something is provided free, it tends to lose some of its value. This can’t be allowed to happen in this case, and to ensure that it doesn’t, strict eligibility guidelines must be attached to a free community-college education. In the case of the president’s plan, there are such rules — students must attend at least half-time, maintain a grade point average of at least 2.5, and make “steady progress” toward graduating.

And there are philosophical and political challenges to overcome as well. Indeed, some lawmakers simply don’t believe it is the government’s — and, ultimately the taxpayers’ — responsibility to be providing a free college education. Garnering necessary political support will be difficult.

But as we said earlier, Obama and his administration should fully explore this concept. Many governments around the world subsidize or partially subsidize higher education, and they do so because they view such expenditures as a sound investment in their future.

We should have the same attitude here. It should be clear to everyone by now that, while one could become a member of the middle class decades ago without a college education, or even a high-school education, the odds of doing so now are much slimmer.

And while there are many reasons why individuals don’t enter or finish college, financial wherewithal is easily the biggest.

Providing a free community-college education is a bold, challenge-filled proposition, but it’s a concept that holds great promise and should be pursued.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of January 2015.

CHICOPEE

Arbour Cuts
1523 Memorial Dr.
Debra Arbour

Diamond Nails
325 Front St.
Van K. Cao

Doogan’s Deli & Pizza
140 Broadway St.
Douglas Girorard

Dream Star Nails
347 Chicopee St.
Hoa Phu

Gary’s Barber Shop
471 Grattan St.
Gary Ruel

Herbarium
258 Exchange St.
Jonathan Evans

Jenco Property Maintenance
5 Newell St.
Mark Jenco

HOLYOKE

Jadhai
254 Maple St.
Oneida Rivera

Majeya’s Avon
254 Maple St.
Ana D. Torres

Merrell
50 Holyoke St.
Hush Puppies Retail Inc.

Riverside Auto & Cycle
85 North Bridge St.
Michael Richardson

LUDLOW

J.B. Meats
141 Center St.
Joseph Batista

Joy’s Restaurant
481 Center St.
Aziz Turan

Ludlow Public Market
46 Birch St.
Isidoro Fernandes

Manuela’s Designs
116 Southwood Dr.
Manuela Docarmo

NORTHAMPTON

A Better Move
141 South Main St.
Terry Blanchard

Ancient Roots Healing Arts
160 Main St.
Sheila Petigny-Perry

Applied Mortgage
211 North St.
Gregory Korn

Asenka Consulting
67 Old South St.
Wendy Aasenkamp

Crimson & Clover Farm
215 Spring St.
Jennifer Smith

Gemini Research
220 Grove St.
Rachel Volberg

Pleasant Street Laundry
185 Pleasant St.
Sun Chong

Ralph’s Blacksmith Shop
36 Smith St.
Arthur Grodd

Strong’s Healthy Smiles Inc.
40 Main St.
Suzanne R. Keller

PALMER

Griswold Glass & Aluminum
1184 Park St.
Jeremy Griswold

Lasting Impressions
1552 North Main St.
Mark Corbett

SPRINGFIELD

Bay Street Bottles
836 Bay St.
Khan H. Nguyen

Baystate Builders
44 Bither St.
Gino Decesare

Beyond Shoes
10 Kendall St.
Vito Resto

Big Daddy Boomerangs
88 Coral Road
Jeffrey LeBeau

Bosslife Inc.
2383 Main St.
Rafael Nazario

CCNE
27 Carver St.
Monica J. Caldwell

Charlotte Julienne
77 Wayne St.
Amy B. Dewar

Concentra Advanced
140 Carando Dr.
Joan O. Lenahan

Fragrant Elegance
13 Lawn St.
Malachi Tresch

J. Horne Photography
143 Main St.
Jesse E. Horne

J.J. Knox Food Market
17 Knox St.
Jabir Khan

Jay Harland Corporation
504 St. James Ave.
Richard M. Black

JPML Holdings Inc.
380 Dickinson St.
Phung M. Le

Knots Indeed
63 Lakevilla Ave.
Rita F. Bartholomew

WESTFIELD

Ace Vapor
227 East Main St.
Ace Vapor

China Star
36 Southwick Road
Westfield China Star Inc.

J.E. Hibert Auto Body
32 Chapel St.
James E. Michael

Pizza Works
18 School St.
Yagmur, Inc.

Raja Mart
286 Southampton Road
Raja Mart

San-Man Graphics
16 Union Ave.
Edgardo Sanchez

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Bertera Chrysler Jeep
539 Riverdale St.
Bertera Motors

Cornerstone Construction
105 Hampden St.
Anatoliy Paliy

Market One
70 Robinson St.
Nicholas Toma

Mortgage Master
371 Park St.
Peter MacDonald

Once Upon a Child
1458 Riverdale St.
Lawrence A. White

Windy Ridge Enterprises
1530 Piper Road
Geraldine E. MacDonald

Opinion

By
Opinion
Education Reform: More Work to Do

By PAUL REVILLE

When the education reform bill was enacted in the early 1990s, its main goal was to educate all students to high levels. And all meant all. Many reforms and investments were implemented, and the state is now the national leader in student achievement. Still, there are deep, persistent achievement gaps and inequality of opportunity that don’t meet our goal of “all means all.’’ Too many students leave school unprepared for college or a career. Until this is addressed, we cannot consider our prodigious reform efforts and investments successful.

Since the early 1990s, education reform has been a collaborative effort between leaders in the public and private sectors and educators. This has allowed the state to avoid many of the “education wars” that have embittered the climate in other states. To be sure, there have been fierce and healthy policy disagreements here, but opposing parties have usually kept their eyes on the consensus goal of education reform: all students learning at high levels.

Education reform is always a work in progress, requiring regular changes in policy, strategy, and practices. And now, after more than two decades of good work, we must admit that our strategies — regardless of their comparative success — have failed to achieve our overall goal of all students learning at high levels. We need to ask once again: What more needs to be done? How do we customize education to meet each child’s needs so that every child achieves success?

Looking ahead, one of the major challenges is obviously the budget. Current and anticipated budget shortfalls will pose serious threats to progress. Of course change in education doesn’t always have to cost more money, but it’s clear that we will eventually have to spend more on specialized services, including early childhood education, extended school days, summer learning, tutoring, and health and human service supports. We also need to reduce the cost of higher education.

Another challenge will be to avoid distractions and debilitating conflicts. Extremists would happily drive us into full-blown warfare over their favorite causes — whether safeguarding a sacrosanct version of standards and tests or tearing down the reform architecture of the past 20 years. For example, extremists in the charter school war want us to do continuous battle over whether charters are the “silver bullet” salvation of the public schools or the scourge of public education. We have fought these battles many times before and they are costly distractions from the business of formulating effective, long-term strategies for improving the education of our students.

There are a number of strategies that the state needs to develop over the next few years, including early childhood education, expanded learning time, career pathways, increased turnaround work, the better utilization of education technology, expanded access to top quality charter and innovation schools, higher education reform, and improved quality of teaching.

This is an enormous agenda. No single player could begin to accomplish it. Collaboration will be essential. Innovation will be vital. Making progress will depend on the cooperative efforts of the state and local elected officials, educators, unions, business leaders and the media, as well as students and their families. Education is vital to our success as a people, as a state, and as a nation. Getting to “all means all” would be an unprecedented achievement, but Massachusetts is still very well positioned to make a run at such an ambitious and historic goal.


Paul Reville is professor of practice of policy and administration at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, where he also leads the Education Redesign Lab. He is a former Massachusetts secretary of Education.

Incorporations

By
Departments Incorporations

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

FEEDING HILLS

Stop the Violence 413 Corporation, 775 Springfield St., Apt. 7C, Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Samantha Mastromatteo, same. Non-profit organization established to provide awareness to the excess of violence in our communities through community events and workshops we hold to educate about alternative-dispute resolutions and how to rebel against the normalization of violence.
 
FLORENCE

Pepper’s Place Small Animal Sanctuary Inc., 55 North Louville Road, Florence, MA 01062. Cynthia Louise White, same. The purpose of this organization is to adopt and place small farm animals such as mini horses, mini cows, small pigs, chickens, turkeys, goats, rabbits, and other small animals (excluding cats and dogs) and provide opportunities for individuals and small groups to visit the animals, assist in their care, and learn about the similarities between humans and animals and their innate needs and nature.
 
GREENFIELD

Shree Brahmani Mataji Corp., 256 Federal St., Greenfield, MA 01301. Priyankkumar Patel, 44 Kent Road, Springfield, MA 01129. Pizza restaurant.
 
HADLEY

Purele Salon and Spa Corp., 138 Russell St., Hadley, MA 01035. Purnima Relekar, 75 East St. North, Suffield, CT 06078. Salon and spa.
 
River Valley Machine Inc., 79 River Drive, Hadley, MA 01035. Christopher Whitaker, 733 Graves Road, Conway, MA 01341. Manufacture and distribution of machinery parts, and any other lawful business.
 
HOLYOKE

SJ Senior Housing Inc., 32 Lower Westfield Road, Holyoke, MA 01040. Yitzchok Rokowsky, 274 Ridge Ave., Lakewood, NJ 8701. Purchase, sell own, assign, mortgage, or lease any interest in real estate and personal property, and to construct, maintain, and operate improvements on real estate.
 
NORTH ADAMS

The Hodge Mill House Museum Inc., 120 Mass MOCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247. Alan Horbal, 458 East Main St., North Adams, MA 01247. To create and operate a museum that focuses on local North Adams history, including, without limitation, the operation of a museum that documents the history of the factory worker in North Adams, life and conditions at work and living conditions at home, including the preservation of factory housing, featuring the properties at 196 through 214 Houghton St. in North Adams.
 
NORTHAMPTON

Paradigm Healthcare, P.C., 81 Henshaw Ave., Northampton, MA 01060. Joshua Mintz, same. Practice of medicine.
 
SOUTHWICK

Palace Hair Design of Springfield Inc., 5 Jared Lane, Southwick, MA 01077. Domenico Rega, 60 Bristol Hill, Glenford, NY 12433. Hair salon featuring retail product sales.
 
SPRINGFIELD

Suit Up Springfield Inc., 85 Shady Brook Lane, Springfield, MA 01118. Justin Roberts, same. A community organization focused on guiding the Young Men of Springfield, Mass. on professional attire and becoming professionally minded. Governed by the Board of Mentors, who are leaders from within the community, Suit Up Springfield’s mission strives to build opportunities for the leaders of tomorrow.
 
WESTFIELD

Roar Inc., 1100 East Mountain Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Laurie Raymaakers, 102 Loomis St., Westfield, MA 01085. Leasing of vehicles and machinery.
 
WILLIAMSTOWN

VK Krupa Corporation, 213 Main St., Williamstown, MA 01267. Sonalben Vyas, 16 Siara St., Adams, MA 01220. Ownership and operation of a motel.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

Applications Sought for 2015 Leadership Institute
SPRINGFIELD — Applications are now being accepted for the 2015 session of Leadership Institute, Rethinking Leadership: Sharpening Skills for Organization and Community Service, sponsored by MassMutual Financial Group with scholarship support from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. The Leadership Institute is a unique collaboration between the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) and Western New England University (WNEU) aimed at teaching mid- and upper-level managers the crucial thinking and problem-solving skills needed to enable them to be effective leaders in service to the community and in their workplaces, and designed to develop high-energy and high-involvement leadership. Since 1982, the program has developed members of the business community for volunteer service to community organizations. Institute alumni represent many accomplished and distinguished leaders in business, education, government, and nonprofit communities, including U.S. Rep. Richard Neal; former state Sen. and Hampden County Clerk of Courts Brian Lees; Henry Thomas, president and CEO of the Urban League of Springfield; and MassMutual Financial Group Vice President Carol Demas and Community Responsibility Consultant Glenn Davis. Directed by WNEU Dean of the College of Business Julie Siciliano and Executive-in-residence Jack Greeley, Leadership 2015 will challenge participants to think in new ways and to analyze their own strengths and organizational challenges within a dynamic economy. Taught by Western New England faculty, participants will focus on problem solving, learning to ask the right questions, and implementing creative solutions for both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Participants will actively explore best practices of leaders; analyze their own leadership, learning, and problem-solving styles; and experience the synergies that come from high-performing teams. Emphasis will be on experiential activities that identify, develop, and refine skill sets for effective leadership. The Leadership Institute runs for seven consecutive Thursdays from 1 to 4:30 p.m., Feb. 12 through March 26. The Feb. 12 opening session will be held at the Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield, with the remaining sessions held at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. The program culminates in April with the ACCGS Beacon Hill Summit, the chamber’s annual trip to Beacon Hill, and a graduation ceremony and dinner. Tuition is $885 per participant and includes all materials, several learning and personality inventory tools, the summit, and the graduation ceremony and dinner. Not-for-profit organizations interested in participating may apply for scholarship funding provided by the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. Interested participants must complete an application, obtain a letter from a sponsor supporting the application, and provide a written letter of interest with background. Information and applications are available by contacting Kara Cavanaugh at the ACCGS at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected]. The deadline for applications is Wednesday, Feb. 4.

Rebuilding Together Unveils New Name, Expanded Services
SPRINGFIELD — The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Massachusetts Assoc. of CDCs recently certified Rebuilding Together as a community-development corporation. In addition, the organization has officially changed its name to Revitalize Community Development Corp., or Revitalize CDC for short. Its focus will continue to be making meaningful improvements to homes that help reduce energy use, save money, and create a safe, healthy, and sustainable living environment for their residents and the community. Revitalize CDC also announced expansion of its services with a Small Business Technical Assistance Program targeting the underserved Latino community in the city. Leslie Belay, senior program manager at Massachusetts Growth Capital Corp., awarded new funding to Revitalize CDC to build out the program. 

State Announces $30M Solar Loan Program
BOSTON — Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration announced the final design of a $30 million residential solar loan program to complement the nation-leading solar market in Massachusetts. The Mass Solar Loan program, designed to make it easier for homeowners to finance solar-electric projects on their homes, will work with banks and credit unions to expand borrowing options through lower-interest-rate loans, while encouraging loans for homeowners with lower incomes or lower credit scores. “Solar installations provide important economic and environmental benefits to Massachusetts,” said state Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Maeve Bartlett. “The Mass Solar Loan program will provide opportunities for homeowners to control and reduce their energy costs and for local banks and credit unions to offer a new business product.” The program, which has been in development since early 2014, follows a Department of Energy Resources (DOER) study that demonstrates lifetime net benefits to homeowners 10 times greater for direct solar ownership relative to third-party ownership. Beginning in early 2015, local lenders will be able to sign up to participate in the program, which is scheduled to begin providing loans in the spring of 2015. “Massachusetts has seen incredible growth in the solar market, with installations in 350 of the Commonwealth’s 351 cities and towns,” said DOER Commissioner Meg Lusardi. “The Mass Solar Loan program will ensure that this growth continues at the local level, increasing opportunities for homeowners to take their energy future into their own hands.”

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies Departments

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

Beaumier, Zayne F.
33 River St.
Russell, MA 01071
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/04/14

Blasco, Dana V.
P.O. Box 214
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/10/14

Boucher, Robert J.
360 Fuller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/30/14

Brown, William J.
Brown, Donna M.
a/k/a Conte, Donna M.
PO Box 1278
Westfield, MA 01086
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/14

Burlin, Kimberly A.
97 Grape St., Apt. D
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/01/14

Celiz, April Joy S.
321 Athol Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/14

Chlosta, Stephen
Chlosta, Diane Jeanne
6 Brittany Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/14

Cooney, Jessie C.
41 Lloyd Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/01/14

Della Giustina, Sarah
95 Hampden St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Dietz, William M.
PO Box 882
Chicopee, MA 01021
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/14

Dwyer, Philip Edmund
48 Birch Lane
Williamstown, MA 01267
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Fairchild, Ronald R.
Fairchild, Laura J.
PO Box 742
Becket, MA 01223
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Giard, Jeanne E.
42 Purington Lane
Colrain, MA 01340
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/01/14

Gonzalez, Francisco
Gonzalez, Rosael
PO Box 6826
Holyoke, MA 01041
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/04/14

Jes’ Custom Cleaning
Whitehead, Frank Scott
Whitehead, Jessica M.
a/k/a Maria, Jessica P.
41 Oleander St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/08/14

Jurek, Karen T.
739 Daniel Shays Hwy. Box
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Lopez, Melito
425 South Elm St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/09/14

Lovejoy, Glen Matthew
Lovejoy, Karen Meyers
38 Orchard St. #2
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/14

Martin, Richard P.
138 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/09/14

Martinez, Valentin Rodriguez
310 Stafford St., #703
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Martunas, Patrick F.
Martunas, Jolene M.
67 Kittredge Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Millette, Daniel A.
19 Norwood Terrace
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/01/14

Moreau, Roger A.
38 Continental St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/11/14

Morgado, Fernando M.
34 Alvin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/14

Peloquin, Mark Francis
1 Normandy Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/12/14

Rivera, Hilda
17 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/13/14

Rosewarne, Jennifer L.
a/k/a Stetson-Rosewarne, Jennifer L.
358 Conway St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/11/14

Sinclair, Rodney F.
147 Westhampton Road
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/03/14

Snow, Michael J.
15 Clapp Road
P.O. Box 204
Hardwick, MA 01037
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 12/08/14

Songer, Donna E.
a/k/a Knowlton, Donna E.
431 South Main St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/02/14

Starsiak, Ryszard
a/k/a Starsiak, Richard
Starsiak, Jolanta
100 Huntington Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/04/14

Stasiowski, Lindsey Marie
925 Muddy Brook Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/14

Trzcinski, Susan J.
19 Oliver St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/14

Vega, Jose
Vega, Ingrid
59 Davis St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/13/14

Velazquez, Osvaldo
Velazquez, Zoraida
50 Brickett St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/14

Webster, Christopher D.
42 Waid Road, Apt. B
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/12/14

Weeks, Kris L.
Weeks, Karyn F.
20 Settright Road
South Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/15/14

Whitley, Dawn E.
44 Klondike Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 12/05/14

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2014.

AGAWAM

Alpha Nine
23 Losito Lane
Daniel Renaud

Bessette Hardscapes
76 Pheasant Run Circle
Gene R. Bessette

Best CPR Certifications
313 Springfield St.
Thomas Devine

C. Trimboli Landscaping
49 Center St.
Cosmo Trimboli

M. Perry Appraisal Services
57 Hunting Lane
Michael Perry

CHICOPEE

Boutin Rental Properties
726 Chicopee St.
Robert Boutin

Northeast Industrial Diesel
63 Dorrance St.
William Heyn

Santana’s Kung Fu Studio
4 Center St.
Maria Santana

GREENFIELD

Aromatic Fillers
127 Leyden Road
Todd Green

Art’s Tire Inc.
10 Silver St.
James LaFleur

Greenfield Garden Cinemas
361 Main St.
George Gohl

Novelli Computer Consulting
25 Pine St.
Thomas Novelli

Padula Brothers Inc.
191 Shelburne Road
Caroline Mansfield

Pristine Orientals
16 Butternut St.
William Noyes

HOLYOKE

Best Buy Mobile
50 Holyoke St.
Todd G. Hartman

Herrera Auto Sales
395 Maple St.
Jose Herrera

Holly’s Nail
2257 Northampton St.
Loan Tran

Jay’s Auto Repair
170 Main St.
Jesus Vargas

Jiordany’s Grocery
301 High St.
Veronica Roman

MC Transportation
219 Elm St.
Manuel Contin

Sam’s Quality Motors
170 Main St.
Samuel Rosa

Twin Stop
625 Homestead Ave.
Rajendra I. Swadia

LUDLOW

C.O.P. Transportation
270 West St.
Frank Arduino

Purely Caribbean Sunless Tanning
271 East St.
Katie Schebel

Studio Dic
48 Pine St.
Denise L. Catrogno

The Luxy
200 Center St.
Lisa Tereso

PALMER

Griswold Glass & Aluminum
1184 Park St.
Jeffrey Griswold

Lasting Impressions
1552 North Main St.
Mark Corbett

Walnut Street Café
8 Walnut St.
Doris Theodore

SOUTHWICK

Athena’s by Bev
25 Gillette Ave.
Beverly Labombard

Cote Property Maintenance
68 Granville Road
David Cote

Extreme Custom Embroidery
25 Gillette Ave.
Beverly Labombard

Helping Hands Elder Care
268 Feeding Hills Road
James Bouley

J & R Consulting
8 Pearl Brook Road
Janet Brodalski

Jimmy’s Pizza, LLC
81 Point Grove Road
Travis Softic

New England Peddler
23 Feeding Hills Road
Michael Albro

Tastefully Tan
610 College Highway
Angela Rivera

Whalley Precision Inc.
28 Hudson Dr.
John Whalley

SPRINGFIELD

ABC Supply Company
270 Rocus St.
American Builders

Acacio M. Serranzina
88 Enfield St.
Acacio M. Serranzina

Admiral Building Products
75 Page Blvd.
Todd Buehl

AsapcompuTerracenet
414 Walnut St.
Aaron Blanine

Asian Bazaar
607 Dickinson St.
Yasmin Siddiqui

Asian Market
19 Pomona St.
Truong Nguyen

Atwater Associates
140 Atwater Terrace
Carmen Rosa

B & R Leasing, Inc.
622 Cottage St.
Faramarz Bahrehmand

BMT Lock and Key
306 Hermitage Dr.
Walter Kulas

Bradco Supply
270 Rocus St.
American Builders

BTJ Transport
37 Newport St.
Traceyann Anderson

Cabo Fashion and Footwear
795 Liberty St.
Edwin Acevedo

Fara Leasing, Inc.
622 Cottage St.
Faramarz Bahrehmand

Felix Auto Sales
237 Dickinson St.
John DeCesare

WESTFIELD

Angela’s Hair Salon
78 Franklin St.
Yevgeniya Gnidenko

Bee Tree Acres
67 Old Quarry Road
Bee Tree Acres

CJ’s Electronic Cigarettes
26 North Elm St.
Round of Nine Inc.

Granddaddy Frank’s Barbeque
57 Katherine St.
Claude G. Stanley Jr.

Meadowbrook Antiques
658 Montgomery Road
Timothy J. Crane

Pat’s Platoon
350 Elm St.
Joshua M. Kelsey

Incorporations

By
Departments Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

JM Funding Inc., 24 Royal St., Agawam, MA 01001. Jake Malkoon, same. Finance consultant for auto dealers.
 
BELCHERTOWN

Homerun Property Group Inc., 331 Old Springfield Road, Belchertown, MA 01007. Daniel Hennessy, same. Purchase, sale, and lease of real estate.
 
CHICOPEE

Lucky Traders Inc., 205 Newbury St., Chicopee, MA 01013. Rafael Medina, 16 Sheldon St., #1L, Springfield, MA 01107. Gas station.
 
FLORENCE

Inward Bound Mindfulness Education Inc., 221 Pine St., Suite 206 Florence, MA 01062. Lori Deckert, same. Charitable organization established to make distributions to organizations that qualify as tax exempt.
 
HOLYOKE

Hampden County Pest Control Service Inc., 60 Pine St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Armando Santiago, same. Pest control or extermination services to commercial customers and private dwellings.
 
MM Senior Housing Inc., 32 Lower Westfield Road, Holyoke, MA 01040. Yitzchok Rokowsky, 274 Ridge Ave., Lakewood, N.J. 08701. Purchase, sale, lease, and maintenance  of real estate.
 
PITTSFIELD

Morawski Inc.,  343 Pecks Road, Suite 3, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Brad Morawski, 81 Longview Terrace, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Installation and servicing of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and commercial appliances.
 
SPRINGFIELD

Hand in Hand Lyme Disease Inc., 111 Garland St., Springfield, MA 01118. Edward Closser, same. Nonprofit organization established to provide assistance to individuals with Chronic Lyme Disease to receive proper medical treatment, provide education, and raise awareness.
 
Ogun Inc., 1371-1374 Allen St., Springfield, MA 01118. Halil Kuru, same. Turkish restaurant.
 
STURBRIDGE

Integrated Healthcare Logistics Inc. 7 Fiske Hill Road, Sturbridge, MA 01566. Francis McNeill III, same. Consulting, healthcare-management consulting.
 
WEST SPRINGFIELD

New England Professional Group Inc., 105 Lennys Way, West Springfield, MA 01089. Wayne Gavryck, 705 Lampblack Road, Greenfield, MA 01031. An organization committed to the education of healthcare professionals about chemical dependency and addiction treatment, providing a path to a lifetime of recovery for healthcare professionals. The loosely formed group has been holding annual educational conferences since 1978.
 
WILBRAHAM

In Home Child & Family Services Inc., 2324 Boston Road, Wilbraham, MA 01095. Kimberly Anderson, same. Counseling services.

Briefcase

By
Briefcase Departments

$5 Million Allocated to UMass Amherst for R&D Center at Westover
CHICOPEE — Gov. Deval Patrick recently released a business plan on growth opportunities at Westover Airport, outlining numerous steps the Commonwealth and Greater Chicopee region can undertake to grow the economy in Western Mass. and to support the mission of Westover Air Reserve Base (ARB), the joint user of the military and civilian airfield. As a result of the plan’s findings, Patrick announced four initiatives to benefit the Westover region, including the proposed creation of a UMass Amherst Research, Development, and Training Center in Chicopee. “Westover Airport and Westover Air Reserve Base are two stellar assets with so much potential for smart growth,” said Patrick. “To support the region’s economy and potential for more private and commercial air service, I commissioned this report to look at a wide variety of options. I’m pleased with the team’s effort and with UMass Amherst’s plan to open a research, development, and training center in Chicopee to tap into the innovative minds in the city and region.” Patrick has allocated up to $5 million to UMass Amherst to support the creation of a research and development partnership program at Westover ARB. This funding would be used to lease and renovate a vacant Westover ARB building to establish a National Aeronautics, Research, Development, and Training Center with UMass Amherst as the lead institution. UMass Amherst is in the process of partnering with NASA on several innovative research projects leveraging promising new technologies to promote efficiencies, safety, and economic growth in aviation. This research would be performed at the proposed center by UMass Amherst and its industry partner M2C Aerospace, a Massachusetts-based, woman-owned small business. The Commonwealth’s funding leverages $15 million in private investment and sponsored research to be conducted by UMass Amherst and benefiting federal agencies. This site would also host a school to train air-traffic controllers and pilots and provide aviation-related courses for the next generation of researchers and engineers to develop future technologies. The proposed aeronautics center will also serve as a nexus for government and industry to collaborate on future aviation initiatives. The Westover site will house state-of-the-art laboratories, including a high-fidelity, 3-D, simulation-based training capability that meets the FAA’s requirements for certifying air-traffic controllers at U.S. aviation facilities. A significant number of air controllers in the New England region are expected to retire in the next 10 years, which will increase the demand for a modern educational facility. This approach could be adapted for new civilian controllers, which — in combination with the transitioning military controllers — would help alleviate the FAA’s shortage of certifiable controllers and allow for joint military training with Westover’s staff. It is estimated that this partnership could generate millions of dollars annually in research, education, and training from a combination of government agencies, such as the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, NASA, the U.S. Department of Transportation, and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as the aviation industry. This fall, Patrick celebrated the grand opening of the UMass Center in Springfield, and the Chicopee site will add to its already-strong educational assets in Western Mass. “This partnership involving UMass Amherst, NASA, and industry will address vital national needs in the aviation sector and help revitalize the Western Massachusetts economy,” said UMass Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy, who also serves as a member of the Military Task Force. “This is a perfect match for our role as one on the country’s top research universities, applying our expertise to enhance the safety of air travel and foster economic opportunity.”

Feb. 6 Deadline Set for 40 Under Forty Nominations
BusinessWest is currently accepting nominations for the 2015 class of its 40 Under Forty program. Launched in 2007, the initiative identifies 40 rising stars in Western Mass., individuals excelling in business, nonprofit management, and service to the community. The process begins with nominations, which will later be sent to a team of five judges for scoring. Nominations should be thorough and essentially answer the question, ‘why is this individual worthy of a 40 Under Forty plaque?’ The winners (those with the highest total scores from those five judges) will be announced in BusinessWest’s April 20 edition, and they will feted at the annual gala on June 18 at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House. Nomination forms can be found in the next few issues of BusinessWest and also online HERE.

Festival of Trees Breaks Fund-raising Record
SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Boys & Girls Club’s 14th annual Festival of Trees had a record-breaking year, drawing more than 13,000 visitors and raising more than $116,000 to support the club’s mission. Featuring 141 trees in 2014, the hallmark holiday event for families and children raises much-needed funds for after-school and summer programs that serve 1,500 inner-city youth each year. The 2014 Festival of Trees officially kicked off on Nov. 28 and closed its doors for the season on Dec. 14. After the final viewing, volunteers made 141 phone calls to the lucky winners of the fully decorated trees that were raffled off as part of the event. All of the trees were donated by businesses, organizations, families, and individuals. The majority of the festival’s visitors participated in the raffle hoping to win one of the trees, valued between $200 and $2,000. The Springfield Boys & Girls Club provides youth-development programs for more than 1,500 children each year in the areas of recreation, educational enrichment, technology training, career development, substance-abuse prevention, health and fitness, and leadership. All of the proceeds from the Festival of Trees directly fund the club’s operations. For more information, visit www.sbgc.org or call (413) 785-5266. The names of all sponsors, and tree winners, can also be found on the website.

Unemployment Up Slightly in November, Down for Year
BOSTON — The state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development reported that the seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates for November were up in 20 labor market areas and two areas remained unchanged over the month, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Over the year, unemployment rates were down in all the labor market areas. The preliminary statewide unadjusted unemployment rate estimate for November was 5.2%, up 0.1% from October.  Over the year, the statewide unadjusted rate was down 1.5% from the November 2013 rate of 6.7%. During November, eight of the 12 areas for which job estimates are published recorded job gains. The largest job gains were in the Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, Framingham, New Bedford, Peabody, Worcester, Brockton-Bridgewater-Easton, Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, and Leominster-Fitchburg-Gardner areas. Losses occurred in the Barnstable, Springfield, Haverhill-North Andover-Amesbury, and Pittsfield areas. Since November 2013, all 12 areas added jobs, with the largest percentage gains occurring in the Lowell-Billerica-Chelmsford, Worcester, Barnstable, Boston-Cambridge-Quincy, and Peabody areas. 

State to Strengthen Manufacturing Industry
AMHERST — Building on the Patrick administration’s historic commitment to strengthening the advanced-manufacturing industry in Massachusetts, Housing and Economic Development Secretary Greg Bialecki recently joined Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Rachel Kaprielian and State Senate Majority Leader Stan Rosenberg to announce nearly $2 million in funding to support manufacturing workforce training across the Commonwealth. The announcement was made at the Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative (AMC) Pioneer Valley Summit, held at UMass Amherst. “I am proud of the work the AMC has accomplished over the years, creating opportunities for workers with a range of skill levels that will strengthen our economy for years to come,” said Bialecki. “Collaborative efforts like this are a critical reason why Massachusetts is leading the nation in growing a 21st-century advanced-manufacturing sector.” Nearly $1.5 million of the total funding was awarded through the Advanced Manufacturing Pipeline Training Grants Program to support five regional workforce-investment boards throughout Massachusetts. This funding will help recruit and train approximately 280 unemployed or underemployed participants for careers in advanced manufacturing. The grants program is a cross-secretariat initiative between the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development and the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. Two Western Mass. organizations are among those receiving funding:
• The Hampden Regional Employment Board received $219,960 to conduct the Advanced Manufacturing Training Program, in partnership with the Western Mass. Chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Assoc. The Hampden Regional Employment Board will contract with local community colleges, part-time instructors from two vocational technical high schools, and an advanced-manufacturing company to train unemployed or underemployed adults of Hampden County.
• The Franklin/Hampshire Regional Employment Board received $276,705 to continue collaboration with employers from across the region, as well as community partners such as Greenfield Community College (GCC), the two area vocational-technical schools, and two adult-education sites, to enable the Regional Employment Board and GCC to offer three additional cycles of entry-level precision-machine training over the next two years in Franklin County. This will expand it from 220 hours to 300 hours and add skill building in the areas of blueprint reading, metrology, grinding, and lean manufacturing.
“The quick turnaround in awarding these grants reflects the urgency the Patrick Administration has adopted in scaling up these pipelines to help fill current job openings in advanced manufacturing all over the state,” said Kaprielian. “These awards will allow the grantees to build upon their proven successes and their capacity to work collaboratively through industry partnerships to increase the number of seats in their existing pipelines.” Through a separate grant program, the Industry Training Capital Equipment grant program, also aimed at supporting the manufacturing industry in Massachusetts, Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School in Northampton was awarded $400,000 to rebuild its precision-manufacturing training program. With the support of more than 25 regional manufacturing and workforce leaders in Hampshire County, the rebuilt training program will be a site for daytime students and evening adult learners, in partnership with the Franklin-Hampshire Regional Employment Board.

EDC Sounds Alarm on Rising Energy Costs
CHICOPEE — The Economic Development Council of Western Mass. recently voiced its concerns regarding the rising costs of natural gas and electricity in the region. “More expensive energy affects all of us negatively. All of us need to be concerned. Individuals face a reduction of disposable income and increased hardship,” the agency said in a prepared statement. “Businesses face reduced competiveness that threatens job growth and retention. Municipalities face increased energy costs while facing decreasing revenues. Hospitals and higher-education institutions must divert more resources to energy purchases, thus diverting resources from their core missions. Shrinking business and consumer spending reduces investments in those things that define quality of life in Western Massachusetts.” Through a series of meetings and discussions with entities familiar with the issues, the EDC infrastructure committee released the following findings:
• Recent and future closings of oil- and coal-fired plants have boosted, and will continue to increase, Massachusetts’ dependency on natural gas for electric power generation. Nearly 50% of all electricity in Massachusetts is generated by natural gas, and that proportion is rising. These conditions, when combined with inadequate supplies of natural gas, are resulting in dramatically increased power costs during the winter.
• Gas companies serving this region are reaching the limits of their capacity to serve new customers. Berkshire Gas will stop adding customers in Greenfield at the end of 2014, and in Amherst in 2016. Columbia Gas is reaching the end of its capacity to serve Northampton and Easthampton. It could serve 10,000 more customers in the region if it had additional capacity. The inability to serve new customers will negatively affect economic growth in the region.
• Kinder Morgan is proposing a pipeline-extension project through Northern Mass. that will increase natural-gas supply to Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampshire counties as well as Eastern Mass.
• NU/Spectra proposes an expansion of the Algonquin Pipeline that would increase natural-gas supplies available to the Springfield area and Eastern Mass.
• Several New England states have been working to bring electricity generated by Hydro Quebec to the region.
EDC Infrastructure Committee Chair Paul Nicolai summarized the committee’s work, suggesting that “supplying cost-effective, responsibly clean energy for our people and businesses is a complicated problem requiring balanced approaches and moderate thinking. EDC has struck that balance and encourages policymakers to do so as well.” At a recent meeting, the EDC board of directors approved a resolution supporting the following actions, which, if implemented, will help to provide an adequate, stable supply of energy at competitive prices:
• Increase natural-gas supply by permitting both natural-gas pipeline-expansion projects proposed for the region and state;
• Increase the sources of power generation by enabling the purchase of hydro-generated electricity from the north;
• Continue support of conservation and renewable-energy technologies; and
• Encourage a regulatory environment that promotes market stability and competitive outcomes.

Leaders Celebrate Springfield Park and Recreation Investments
SPRINGFIELD — State Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Maeve Vallely Bartlett and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno recently celebrated Camp STAR Angelina, Mary Troy Park, and Balliet Park, all park projects reflecting the more than $7.7 million invested in parks and open space in Springfield by Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration. “Open space and outdoor recreation investments are a critical component of building robust, healthy communities,” said Bartlett. “Gov. Patrick has made urban neighborhoods a top priority, and the evidence of that is clear today in Springfield and across the Commonwealth.” Sarno thanked Patrick and Bartlett “for your continued vision in providing funding to increase and revitalize recreational and green spaces in urban areas. The legacy you are leaving here in Springfield is one of inclusion and opportunity, which is evidenced by the $3.5 million investment made here in Springfield, which demonstrates the Patrick administration’s commitment in creating strong and healthy communities.” Located in Springfield’s Forest Park and operated by the city, Camp STAR Angelina offers inclusive recreational programs for youth and young adults with and without disabilities, medical concerns, and hearing and visual impairments. EEA provided more than $1.325 million in capital funding to help fund the construction of a nearly complete, fully accessible pool and accessible bath house, as well as a universal outdoor amphitheater, construction of which will begin soon. As part of Monday’s celebration, Sarno announced that the pool and bath-house facility would be named after Gov. Patrick, in recognition of his efforts to increase access outdoor recreation for all children. North Riverfront Park sits along the northern end of Springfield’s portion of the Connecticut River Walk and Bikeway, a proposed 20-mile corridor that would run through Agawam, Springfield, West Springfield, Chicopee, and Holyoke. EEA invested $1.2 million in North Riverfront Park to transform a property surrounded by barbed wire into a welcoming, vibrant site that will better connect Springfield’s North End to the riverfront. The city’s design features a reduction of pavement, installation of picnic tables, and an increase of pervious lawn areas, plant beds, rain gardens, and additional trees to provide shade. The city is contributing an additional $300,000 toward the project, and construction will be beginning shortly. Mary Troy Park, a new park in the densely populated Liberty Heights neighborhood, will provide green space and access to outdoor recreation for residents. The park, set to be completed next spring, was made possible by a $400,000 Parkland Acquisition and Renovations for Communities (PARC) grant from the Patrick administration. The city will use this funding to design and build a new park, including a universally accessible series of free-standing play structures, including a water-spray feature and exercise equipment along a central pathway, as well as park amenities like drinking fountains and trash receptacles. The city of Springfield is contributing $380,000 in federal Community Development Block Grant funding toward the project. Balliet Park received a $400,000 PARC grant to renovate the baseball diamond and tennis courts, install a playground and swingset equipment, establish a picnic area, and improve access to park entrances and walkways. Springfield is using its Our Common Backyards Grant to construct a splash pad at the park, which will be completed by the year’s end. Springfield is one of seven cities to receive funding through the governor’s Signature Urban Parks program.

Construction Employment Expands in Most Areas
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Construction employment expanded in 224 metro areas, declined in 64, and was stagnant in 51 between November 2013 and November 2014, according to a new analysis of federal employment data by Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said contractors in many parts of the country were benefitting from growing demand, yet labor shortages threaten to undermine the sector’s recovery. “It is good news that construction employment is now rising in two-thirds of the nation’s metro areas,” said Ken Simonson, chief economist for the association. “But now that the unemployment rate for construction workers has fallen to a seven-year low, it has become a major challenge to find qualified workers in many fields.”

Company Notebook

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Company Notebook Departments

United Financial Unveils Restructuring Initiatives
GLASTONBURY, Conn. — William H.W. Crawford IV, CEO of United Financial Bancorp Inc. and United Bank of Glastonbury, Conn., announced that the company expects to record certain charges in its fiscal 2014 fourth-quarter earnings, aggregating to a total of approximately $5.5 million pre-tax. The company has initiated certain restructuring initiatives in order to achieve greater operational efficiencies. The charges relate to a reduction in an unspecified number of management and staff positions and the implementation of a branch-optimization strategy, which includes the closure of five non-strategic branches in United’s branch network, pending regulatory approval. The five branch locations are 180 Main St. in Northampton, 491 Pleasant St. in Northampton, 6 Church St. in Northborough, 701 Church St. in Whitinsville, and 124 Main St. in Broad Brook, Conn. These branch closures are in addition to the four branches United said it would consolidate after it announced its merger in November 2013. Those four branches officially closed in October 2014. The company expects to realize approximately $3 million pre-tax in ongoing cost savings as a result of this restructuring. Nearly all of these benefits will be fully realized in fiscal 2015. “A continuing focus on cost efficiency has always been a key driver in making our company a success. We said we would continue to look for ways to strengthen United when we announced our merger last year, and we are delivering on that promise,” said Crawford. “Therefore, it requires some difficult but prudent financial decision making to make the company stronger and more efficient without compromising our commitment to exceptional customer service or our unwavering commitment to our communities. With expectations of continued pressure on spread income in 2015 due to the likely interest-rate environment, we thoughtfully and strategically identified key operational efficiencies that will result in significant ongoing costs savings in 2015.” The bank considered many factors before making a final decision, including the location of the branches and whether they supported its branch network, performance of the branches and deposit levels, demographics, and the level of customer foot traffic at these locations as well as business activity in the area. “Deciding to close these branches is not a reflection of the hard work and dedication of the employees who work at these locations. Instead, based on many factors, we just couldn’t make these five branches successful,” said Crawford. “We know change is not easy for employees and our customers. However, we will always be focused on delivering great customer service, providing convenient access to full-service banking through different channels, and giving back to the communities we serve. Implementing this branch optimization plan does not deter us from those priorities.” The company also announced that Scott Bechtle, chief risk officer, will be leaving United Bank effective Dec. 30. The bank’s risk-oversight responsibilities will be divided into a credit-risk function overseen by current Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer Mark Kucia. The enterprise risk-management and compliance will now be overseen by United’s newly-appointed chief risk officer, Elizabeth Kenney Wynnick, its current executive vice president and director of Internal Audit, who is replacing Bechtle.

American Benefits Group Receives Innovator Superstar Award
NORTHAMPTON — Helping companies navigate healthcare-benefit options while controlling costs and improving service has earned the American Benefits Group an Innovator Superstar Award from the Institute for HealthCare Consumerism (IHHC). The Annual HealthCare Consumerism Awards, published in the journal HealthCare Consumerism Solutions last month, recognize companies who excel in executing innovative health and benefit management programs or providing those solutions to organizations. As healthcare costs have steadily increased, employers nationwide have been responding with large-scale adoption of high-deductible health plans paired with pre-tax, employee-controlled benefit spending accounts. American Benefits Group provides employers with turnkey, third-party administration of a wide range of pre-tax employee benefits, including health reimbursement accounts (HRA), health savings accounts (HSA), and flexible spending accounts (FSA). These accounts help companies and their employees offset the cost of deductibles, co-pays, and other medical expenses that are not covered by their healthcare plan, allowing employees and employers to contribute pre-tax funds into accounts designated for healthcare expenditures. Since pre-tax account contributions are not subject to employment and personal income taxes, they create substantial tax savings for the employees. The company also provides COBRA administration and compliance, as well as pre-tax commuter accounts. “We’re honored to be recognized by the Institute for HealthCare Consumerism,” said Robert Cummings, CEO and managing principal of American Benefits Group. “Our company delivers concierge-level services with cutting-edge technology for our customers who range from Fortune 1000 organizations to Main Street businesses. Using leading-edge technology, such as consumer web and mobile applications and a smart-benefits, debit-card payment system, we’re delivering efficiencies and a superior consumer experience for our customers and their employees.” American Benefits Group was founded by Cummings in 1989 and has 27 Northampton-based employees. Current customers include more than 650 companies nationwide with 50 to 15,000 employees, including international, iconic brands like Ferrari Maserati, Wall Street giant Cantor Fitzgerald, and Mitsubishi, as well as many area employers, such as Mount Holyoke College and Florence Savings Bank.

Conca Brings Elite Baseball Development Program to Palmer- Wilbraham Area
WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Elite Baseball Development Program that helped develop Arizona Diamondback Nick Ahmed into the powerful shortstop he is today has come to Palmer.  Conca Sport & Fitness, LLC (CSF) will be bringing its Conca Sports Performance division to AP Player Development in Palmer, located at 1 Chamber Road. Conca Sports Performance is the highly specialized athlete-development division of Conca Sport & Fitness, LLC, which offers sport-specific strength and conditioning. One such program, the Elite Baseball Development Program, has been offered at its West Springfield facility since 2009, training high-school, collegiate, and professional athletes. Athletes in Palmer and surrounding areas will have the same opportunity. With the dynamic collaboration between CSF and AP Player Development, athletes will now have the opportunity to train on and off the field, using AP’s outdoor and indoor resources. “We’re pleased to have him bring Conca Sports Performance to our facility and provide the expert strength and conditioning for the talent we are developing,” said Peter Fatse, owner and director of AP Player Development. The Elite Baseball Development Program includes individual assessments and program design, supervised strength and conditioning, and nutrition education. Pitchers and hitters are assessed using cutting-edge ZenoLink 3-D technology to create an accurate performance profile that serves as the basis for their training programs. These programs are tailored to the players’ specific needs, including strengths, deficiencies, and injury history. “What happens in the offseason is just as important, if not more so, than what happens during the season with regard to strength and conditioning,” said Steve Conca, owner of Conca Sport and Fitness. “The proper program design can make all the difference on the field, and our Elite Baseball Development Program identifies the individual needs of the players to ensure they perform their best while reducing the chances of an overuse injury.”

Elms Upgrades Library to Meet Evolving Needs
CHICOPEE — To help today’s digitally advanced students get the best possible use out of their library system, Elms College is giving the Alumnae Library a facelift this month in the form of a new ‘learning commons’ that will encourage learning through collaboration, discussion, research, and inquiry. Learning-commons spaces are an exciting trend at higher-education institutions, driven by the increasing availability and use of digital modes of information retrieval and sharing. Students now get their information not only from texts, but also online and from each other, and academic libraries are evolving into dynamic, integrated spaces that do far more than house books. Such spaces combine the library, computer lab, research center, support services, and meeting places to give students every possible resource for learning. Education has grown more collaborative over the years, and these common landing spots allow groups to innovate and collaborate much more freely than they could in the past, establishing connections and improving participation to promote learning and academic development. “Students need space to work together on learning projects, access technology, utilize academic support, and explore library resources,” said Joyce Hampton, dean of Student Success and Strategic Initiatives at Elms. The college has invested approximately $50,000 for the technology and the collaboration-friendly furniture, and also invested in a new transformer. The investment gives all Elms students — undergraduates, graduate students, and non-traditional students — a common space that is devoted to them and their scholarship, with resources designed to enhance academic success, facilitate degree completion, develop interpersonal skills, and ultimately make students more marketable. “I am hopeful that students will view the investment in their library as an investment in themselves, and will begin to treat the library as if it were their second home,” said Anthony Fonseca, Alumnae Library director. It’s also an investment in Western Massachusetts, as the library and its resources are open to the public. The new area will include computer workstations; lounge chairs with tablet tabletops that can be powered up; Backbone media platforms with 50-inch, wall-mounted flatscreens that allow for media sharing and collaboration; mobile whiteboards; café-height worktable areas with power and data access; mobile worktables with power access; laptops available for library use; new printer technology; and upgraded wireless capacity.

Holyoke Medical Center Named a Top Hospital
HOLYOKE — For the first time, the Leapfrog Group has named Holyoke Medical Center (HMC) to its annual list of Top Hospitals. An elite distinction awarded to hospitals nationwide for demonstrating excellence in hospital safety and quality through the Leapfrog Hospital Survey, the Leapfrog Top Hospital award is given to fewer than 7% of all eligible hospitals. “Earning the Leapfrog Top Hospital award tells us that we are succeeding in our mission to set a new standard in patient care,” said Spiros Hatiras, HMC President and CEO. “We believe that being a premier medical institution requires a commitment to safety and quality, as well as a fundamental respect for the patient. At Holyoke Medical Center, we treat patients with authentic compassion and empathy, as we would our own families.” Leah Binder, president and CEO of the Leapfrog Group, noted that the Top Hospital award “is widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious distinctions any hospital can achieve in the United States. It recognizes institutions for their excellence in quality of care and patient safety, as well as their commitment to transparency. By achieving Top Hospital status, Holyoke Medical Center has proven it’s a premier institution and deserves to be recognized for its dedication to the families and patients in Western Massachusetts.” Holyoke Medical Center was one of 94 Top Hospitals recognized nationally, including academic medical centers, teaching hospitals, and community hospitals, and children’s hospitals in rural, suburban, and urban settings. The selection is based on the results of the Leapfrog Group’s annual hospital survey, which measures hospitals’ performance on patient safety and quality, focusing on three critical areas of hospital care: how patients fare, resource use, and management structures established to prevent errors. Performance across many areas of hospital care is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including rates for high-risk procedures and a hospital’s ability to prevent medication errors. To see the full list of institutions honored as a 2014 Top Hospital, visit www.leapfroggroup.org/tophospitals.

ENERGIA Fitness Studio Opens Second Location
HADLEY — ENERGIA Fitness has announced its second location and the launch of 50/50 Fitness/Nutrition, a Balanced Approach to Health & Wellness, at 226 Russell St. in Hadley. ENERGIA changed ownership late last year and has rapidly expanded, outgrowing its space. “50/50 Fitness/Nutrition wasn’t established simply because we ran out of space or were just looking to expand on our class and personal-training offerings,” said Justin Killeen, program director and owner of ENERGIA. “We’re completely revitalizing our systems and rebranding to ensure that people really get the full ENERGIA experience. A lot of what we provide our clients with is extremely unique, almost unexplainable in a way. Every client is different. We all learn differently, respond differently to various methods of teaching, and obtain very different results. Our method of coaching and relationship building takes the average training experience and drives it where other trainers, other gyms, won’t go.” He went on to note that one of the biggest initiatives in the new space will be to bridge the gap between healthcare professionals — doctors, nutritionists, physical therapists, massage therapists, etc. — and fitness professionals. “We don’t prescribe diets, we don’t promise instant results, and we don’t injure anyone. What we do offer is a renewed sense of balance, a promise for lifestyle change, and a community of support unlike any other.”

People on the Move

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Departments People on the Move

L. Alexandra Hogan

L. Alexandra Hogan

The Springfield-based law firm Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C., announced that attorney L. Alexandra Hogan has been appointed the new vice chair of the New England division of the International Women’s Insolvency and Restructuring Confederation (IWIRC). In 2012, Hogan was voted in to join the organization’s board of directors. The New England IWIRC is a networking organization pursuing the goal of creating a vibrant community of restructuring practitioners from every discipline. For more than two decades, IWIRC has been connecting women worldwide through a global membership of more than 1,200 attorneys, bankers, corporate-turnaround professionals, financial advisors, and other restructuring practitioners. “IWIRC provides valuable networking opportunities and leadership roles on a global and local level,” said Hogan. “Whether members are just beginning their careers or they are looking to take their profession to the next level, IWIRC has a platform to help them get there. I am proud to serve on the board of an organization devoted to improving the professional opportunities for women in my field, and I’m excited to take my own involvement with the organization to the next level as the vice chair for the New England division.” Hogan concentrates her practice primarily in bankruptcy, litigation, and business law. She graduated from Western New England University School of Law with cum laude honors in 2008 and from Bay Path University with summa cum laude honors in 1996. For the years 2011-14, she has been selected by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star and a Top Woman Attorney. She also currently serves as vice chair of the Hampden County Bar Assoc. Bankruptcy Division. Hogan volunteers to the Financial Literacy Program for U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts and the Boston Bar Assoc. to aid high-school students in personal finance, and also provides pro bono services through the Law Consortium for Western Mass.
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Peter Hazel

Peter Hazel

North Brookfield Savings Bank announced that Peter Hazel has been hired as vice president and commercial loan officer. Hazel has more than 30 years of commercial-lending and business-development experience, including as senior vice president/business banking officer at Fidelity Bank in Gardner and vice president of Business Development and senior commercial lender at GFA Federal Credit Union, also in Gardner. He is proficient in Small Business Administration and USDA Rural Development lending programs. Hazel joins NBSB’s growing team of business-lending experts located throughout the bank’s business centers and seven branches in Central and Western Mass. The bank has been named an SBA preferred lender, with membership in the program given only to financial institutions that have a proven capability and commitment to small-business lending and strict adherence to SBA guidelines. Involved in a number of local community organizations, Hazel is a Gardner Chamber of Commerce board member and finance committee member, a Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts board member and grant committee member, a North Worcester Country Development Corp. board member, a board member and treasurer of RCAP Solutions, and a former president of the Gardner Rotary Club, where he twice received the Paul Harris Award for community service.
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Avital Levy Carlis has joined Cooley Dickinson Hospital as administrative director of the Massachusetts General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital and service-line development. Carlis earned a master’s in public health, with a concentration in health policy and management, from the University of California, Berkeley, and holds bachelor’s degrees in both biology and international history from the University of Rochester. Most recently, she served as director of Finance for the Mass General Cancer Center and was the administrative director for the division of Hematology and Oncology at Mass General. Cooley Dickinson and the Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center have collaborated in providing cancer care since 2009. In 2015, the Mass General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital will open.
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Salon Herdis announced that Tara Abramowicz, a Redken creative colorist and image consultant, has joined the staff. She holds several certifications, including Redken certified hair colorist and Redken certified design and finish specialist, and sharpens her skills regularly with continuing education. She also travels and educates other hairstylists on color. “I’ve always been inspired by fashion, since I was a little girl,” Abramowicz said. “It’s great to be a part of something bigger than myself, in making people look and feel their absolute best.” Salon Herdis is an 11-year old downtown Northampton institution, providing a full range of hair and spa services to clients looking for a big-city experience in the Pioneer Valley. “The beauty industry is one of the few industries where women take the lead,” said Salon Herdis owner Linda Hannum, “and Tara is truly a leader among her peers.”

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

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Chamber Corners Departments

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
 
• Jan. 14: Speed Networking, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield. Meet up to 50 contacts in under an hour. Don’t miss this high-speed way of working the room. Tickets are $20 for members ($25 at the door), and includes complimentary admission to the After 5 immediately following so you can continue to network. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at (413) 755-1313.
 
• Jan. 14: After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield. Enjoy networking in a casual atmosphere and expect some surprises. Event sponsors: Wolf & Co. P.C.,  DevelopSpringfield Corp., Springfield Falcons Hockey Club, United Way of Pioneer Valley Inc., and BusinessWest. Tickets are $5 for members, $10 general admission. Complimentary with purchase of January Speed Networking. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at (413) 755-1313
 
• Jan. 28: January 2015 Lunch & Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Springfield College (Dodge Room in Flynn Campus Union), 263 Alden St., Springfield. The event topic is “Question 4: Mandated Sick Leave … Now What?” presented by Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. Core concepts discussed include who is eligible and who isn’t, what it means for your workforce, and the subtle nuances of the law. Sponsored by Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C. Tickets are $25 for members, $35 general admission. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at (413) 755-1313.
 
• Feb. 4: February Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Crestview Country Club in Agawam. The guest speaker will be Dr. Steve Sobel, humorist and motivational speaker, who will present “You’re a Piece of Work! Celebrate Joy, Passion, and Influence!” This presentation will illuminate all of life’s possibilities and provide attendees with the tools  to embrace all things coming their way and bring their ‘A game’ to their customers. Sponsored by United Personnel. Salutes: FIT Solutions, 10th anniversary; GZA GeoEnvironmental, 15th anniversary; and Shriners Hospital for Children, 90th anniversary. Tickets are $20 for members ($25 at the door), $30 for non-members. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at (413) 755-1313.
 
AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700
 
• Jan. 13: Business Buddies: Grow Your Business with Co-hosted Events, 8:30 a.m. to noon, at Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley. Join Liz Provo, authorized expert for Constant Contact, and Thom Fox, business advisor, for a free workshop. Learn how to plan, hold, and run successful events for your business. Special focus on collaboration, online registration tools, e-mail and social media. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

• Jan. 13: Chamber Brown Bag, noon to 1 p.m., at Downtown Mindfulness, 67 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Topic: “Rewiring the Brain For Success.” Start the new year learning skills to rewire the brain for success. The brain is naturally wired to be more sensitive to failure, which can limit people from knowing their full potential and power. What distinguishes successful people is their attitude toward failure. In this workshop, become familiar with your explanatory style — how you talk to yourself when you experience a setback — and learn mindfulness-based practices to overcome your negativity bias. Admission is free and open to the public. Register at downtownmindfulness.com.

• Jan. 14: Chamber Annual Meeting, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Chandler’s Restaurant. Guest speakers will be Kerry Miller, director of Membership Services, and Stephen Clark, director of Government Affairs. The meeting will also feature the formal election of the 2015 chamber board of directors, including the installation of Nancy Buffone as board president. Sponsored by the UMassFive College Credit Union. Tickets are $25. For more information, e-mail the chamber at [email protected].
 
• Jan. 29: Chamber After 5, 5-8 p.m., at artALIVE, 35 South Pleasant St., Amherst. Ever try a Wine & Paint night? Here’s your chance to do so. Don’t know how to paint? Who cares, neither do we. We’re all on the same level, folks — that’s why we will have an instructor. Admission is $20, and the price includes wine and two and a half hours with a personal instructor.
 
GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
 
• Jan. 21: January Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., 
at the Munich Haus, 13 Center St., Chicopee. 
Tickets are $23 for members, $29 for non-members.

• Jan. 28: January Business After Hours,  5-7 p.m., at H & R Block, 1475 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• Feb. 11: CEO Luncheon, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by Collegian Court Restaurant, 89 Park St., Chicopee.
Tickets are $25 members, $30 for non-members.

• Feb. 18: February Salute Breakfast & Annual Meeting, 7:15-9 a.m., at the MassMutual Learning & Conference Center, Chicopee. Tickets are $23 for members, $29 for non-members.
 
GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
 
• Jan. 22: Chamber Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner, 5 p.m., at Southampton Country Club. The event will feature presentation of Business of the Year awards and celebrate member milestones. For more information, contact the chamber.
 
• Feb. 9: Getting Down to Business about Business, 8-9 a.m., on the second Monday of each month.  Mayor Karen Cadieux will be hosted by one of Easthampton’s businesses for casual question-and-answer sessions.
 
• Feb. 14: Second annual Easthampton WinterFest, starting at 11 a.m. The Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee and Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce invite you to the second annual Easthampton WinterFest. This community-wide event features family-friendly winter activities held throughout the day, featuring an historical ice harvest on Nashawannuck Pond, horse-drawn wagon rides, snowshoeing, snow sculpture, a chili cook-off, a community bonfire, and much more. There will also be winter-themed indoor activities for all ages. Most events are free or by donation. A lineup of the day’s events will be posted on www.nashawannuckpond.org.
 
GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
 
• Jan. 13: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business: Finding a Location,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber, 177 High St., Holyoke. Join us in this workshop series as members of the chamber teach members of the community the steps it takes to build a successful business. Tickets are $20 per session or $175 for the series. Series sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery in partnership with Holyoke Creative Arts. Call the Holyoke chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up or online at holyokechamber.com.

• Jan. 30: Legislative Coffee Hour, 7:45-9 a.m., at the Summit View Banquet House, 500 Northampton St., Holyoke. Speakers will be state Sen. Donald Humason and state Rep. Aaron Vega. Tickets are $25 for members with reservations, $35 for non-members and at the door. Price includes a continental breakfast.
 
• Feb. 3: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business: Staff – Hiring and Firing,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber conference room. This program, the latest in a series, will provide all you need to know about employee handbooks, insurance, performance evaluation, job descriptions, sexual harassment, sensitivity training, and human resources. Tickets are $20. Series sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery in partnership with the Holyoke Creative Arts. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
 
• Feb. 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Business networking event includes complimentary appetizers, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Sponsored and hosted by Gary Rome Hyundai, 1000 Main St., Holyoke. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
 
• Feb. 24: “How to Start and Maintain Your Business: Marketing Your Business,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the chamber conference room, 177 High St. This program, the latest in a series, will provide all you need to know about designing a logo, branding your business, advertising opportunities, social media, and developing a website. Tickets are $20. Series sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery in partnership with Holyoke Creative Arts. Call the Holyoke chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up or online at holyokechamber.com.
 
GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Jan. 27: New Member Orientation at Northampton Chamber of Commerce, noon to 1 p.m. This is the chance to tell us more about your business and how the chamber can best serve you, meet other new members, and learn how to make to the most of your chamber membership. RSVP to (413) 584-1900 or [email protected]. Cost: free.
 
GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
 
• Jan. 14: January After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Arbors of Westfield, 40 Court St. in Westfield. Sponsored by Susan Allen Financial. Cost is $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
 
• Feb. 2: Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Dan Knapik, 8-9 a.m., at McDonald’s, 182 North Elm St., Westfield. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618 to register.

• Feb. 11: February After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Betts Piping Supply Co., 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310
  
• Jan. 21: 2015 Tabletop Expo/Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Storrowton Tavern at Eastern States Exposition, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Reservations are being accepted for the 17th annual Tabletop Expo. Last year’s successful Expo was a sellout. Sign up today to showcase your company’s products and services or to attend the event. Display price includes a draped table and lunch for one. General-admission tickets include specialty sandwiches, fruit, chips, and dessert. Please note on your reservation form if your exhibitor’s table will require electricity. Luncheon admission: $25 for members, $35 for non-members. Tabletop exhibitors (includes one luncheon ticket): $75 for members, $105 for non-members. For more information, contact Sarah Mazzaferro at (413)755-1313.
 
WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880
 
• Jan. 15: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. One must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note that we cannot invoice you for these events.
 For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
 
• Feb. 4: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Flowers By Webster 82 Elm St., West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Event is open to the public; you must pay at the door if you’re a non-member. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
 
• Feb. 19: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. One must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note that we cannot invoice you for these events.
 For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 25: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Storrowton Tavern,  1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The breakfast will feature a panel of various leaders, including state Sen. James Welch, state Sen. Donald Humason, Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on ticket sales, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
 
YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.springfieldyps.com
  
• Jan. 15: January Third Thursday, 5-8 p.m., at Nadim’s Mediterranean Restaurant & Grill, 1390 Main St., Springfield. All are welcome; admission is free for non-members. Community spotlight: Springfield Symphony Orchestra. Come learn more about SSO and their upcoming events. They’ll be raffling off pairs of SSO tickets at the event and selling tickets at a discount for YPS members.

Agenda

By
Agenda Departments

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

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

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

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

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

Court Dockets

By
Court Dockets Departments

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

FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT
Majk Samic v. Sarah Kennedy, Vicki Kennedy, Kevin Kennedy, proprietors of Kennedy’s Bostons & Frenchies
Allegation: Breach of contract, unjust enrichment, misrepresentation, and fraud regarding the sale of a puppy: $25,000
Filed: 11/21/14

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Interstate Fire and Casualty Co. v. The Dennis Group Inc.
Allegation: Plaintiff seeks reimbursement of deductible pursuant to terms of commercial general liability insurance policy: $75,000
Filed: 11/14/14

Helesant Inc. d/b/a Scores v. Baystate Gas Co.
Allegation: Negligence causing property damage and lost revenue: $5,000,000
Filed: 11/13/14

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame v. Grey Flannel Auctions Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract: $225,000+
Filed: 11/18/14

Starlight Entertainment v. Baystate Gas Co. d/b/a Columbia Gas
Allegation: Negligence causing explosion and loss of revenue: $322,800
Filed: 11/13/14

U.S. Financial Services Inc. v. Berry Berry, Inc. Happy Treats Center Inc., Dalen and Samantha Pham
Allegation: Breach of equipment lease agreement: $67,162.36
Filed: 11/14/14

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Anthony Choquette v. All Seasons Painting and Decorating
Allegation: Breach of contract and deficient and unworkmanlike labor while painting: $12,000
Filed: 11/19/14

Bassett Printers, LLC d/b/a Bassett Co.v. Minutemen Press of Worcester Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $19,472.84
Filed: 11/20/14

Datagram Inc. v. CSR Wire, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of services rendered: $5,420.71
Filed: 11/21/14

FXI Inc. v. Sleep Inc. d/b/a Mattress World
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $7,286.74
Filed: 11/12/14

Mass Park Inc. d/b/a Valet Park of America v. Nora’s Restaurant Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of valet services: $5,265.68
Filed: 11/19/14

Performance Food Group Inc. d/b/a Roma Pizza v. Todd P. Denis d/b/a Red Rock Pizza
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $8,577.70
Filed: 10/31/14

Stewart Staffing Solutions, LLC v. Hot Mama’s Acquisition Corp.
Allegation: Non-payment of staffing services rendered: $16,997.44
Filed: 11/18/14

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Sassne Enterprise Inc. d/b/a Service Master Assured Cleaning v. Target Restoration Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of services rendered: $10,993.50
Filed: 10-21-14