Departments Archives - Page 97 of 149

Opinion

By BusinessWest Staff January 14, 2014

Opinion

Assessing the View From Downriver

By DAVID B. PANAGORE
When I relocated, personally and professionally, to Connecticut, I did so with some questions — would I be expected to like the Yankees, and would I now have to think like a New Yorker, not a Bostonian? — and some assumptions.
Indeed, my childhood produced a quiet Connecticut jealousy, notions that those who govern there are one step ahead of us, better dressed, and probably better by a little in a lot of things. Since stepping over the state border four years ago, however, I have learned how false that notion is.
My time has mostly been spent in the Interstate 91 to 95 corridor, working for Hartford and now New Haven. Overall, living is easier in spite of the government, and work is harder because of the government. What have I learned? That I long for the efficiency and effectiveness of Massachusetts state government.
While that may sound like sarcasm, it’s not. It’s the truth.
If you’re a person who wants or needs to get some work or business done in the Nutmeg State, let me say first that it takes time — more time than in Massachusetts, and perhaps double the time. In order to do business in Connecticut, in order to work with any city or town, you have to realize that the process-driven nature of the town meeting still permeates the mentality and decision-making process of the state, at each level of government.
Connecticut has 169 towns, and the overarching system and legislative mentality are built around the towns, not the cities. Massachusetts empowered its cities, creating uniform building codes, universal health and pension systems, uniform codes of ethics, and consistent procurement practices, and very often recognizing the operational differences between cities and towns.
Meanwhile, Connecticut has steadfastly kept to itself, allowing 169 different systems in so many areas of operation. In Hartford, for example, the city must track more than 150 separate retirement groups; you can count Springfield’s on one hand. The same goes for pensions and building codes.
Comparing the two state governments, keep in mind that while Connecticut’s is far more accessible, the Bay State’s is frankly more efficient, more modern, and has nothing as yet to fear from its southern neighbor. For example, it regularly takes the Connecticut Department of Transportation up to two years to review roadway-design documents; that’s twice as long as I recall it taking in Massachusetts. The current governor, Dannel Malloy, is trying to move the ball forward, but structurally he does not have the horses.
In the aftermath of the Great Recession, Massachusetts does lead the pack in New England for job growth, while Connecticut remains relatively stagnant. Among the many reasons why, I believe, is the lack of a mature bureaucratic infrastructure, including, for example, the lack of agencies and systems like the MEPA process, the Mass. Office of Business Development, and MassDevelopment, each of which has, in its own way, made a telling difference in support of development.
In Connecticut, the governor has spearheaded a ‘First Five’ program of financial support in return for job creation. However, each deal has to be managed at the highest levels in order to occur. There is no real deep bench of staff and structure across the state.
Jackson Labs, a great coup for Connecticut, was a deal, again, negotiated and handled by the top-ranked state officials. This means that, when doing business, you go right to the corner offices, and although the number of helping hands is limited and the money more flexible with fewer restrictions, it is important to remember that, in Connecticut, there is no ban against a direct infusion of capital on public investment in private enterprise.
Simply put, working in and with the public sector in Connecticut is far more challenging than in Massachusetts — yet another way the quality of life in the Pioneer Valley benefits residents and businesses alike.

David B. Panagore is acting executive director of the New Haven Parking Authority and former chief development officer in Springfield.

PictureThis

By BusinessWest Staff January 14, 2014

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]

Heartfelt Check

Holyoke HealthCare Center, a member of National HealthCare (NHC), and its philanthropic arm, the Foundation for Geriatric Education (TFGE), recently presented a check for $4,810 to Holyoke Medical Center to cover the cost a five-day ‘boot camp’ for participants who have been recently diagnosed with congestive heart failure (CHF). Large-number bathroom scales can now be purchased for those with CHF to weigh themselves everyday, an important part of the self-management process. The camp is offered through the multi-agency ‘cross-continuum team’ consisting of Holyoke Medical Center, Holyoke HealthCare Center, the Care Center, Holyoke Visiting Nurse Assoc., and Renaissance Manor. Pictured, from left, are HMC President and CEO Spiros Hatiras, HMC Education and Training Manager Carlene Bailey, HHCC Director of Nursing Mary Walas, HMC STAAR Program Manager Cherelyn Roberts, and HHCC Administrator Thomas Accomando.

OnCore Performance

Employees of Springfield-based OnCore Manufacturing donated gift bags and boxes filled with items to complete the wish lists of 30 elementary-school-aged children served through Square One’s after-school programs. OnCore, a provider of product- commercialization services to international blue-chip aerospace and defense, industrial, and medical companies, is a partner with Square One, a nonprofit that provides low-cost education and care programs, along with transportation, to encourage and support local children who will be the leaders of the future. Pictured, from left, are OnCore employees Nancy McDonough, Anne DeCillis, and Heather Ferreira.

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff January 14, 2014

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
Capital One v. Walter E. Gazda, DMD
Allegation: Breach of credit agreement: $5,055.16
Filed: 12/3/13

David Pepin v. NCR Corp.
Allegation: Defendant failed to pay accrued vacation and personal pay: $5,786.84
Filed: 12/4/13

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Laura E. Gormally v. William F. Milbier, Northeast Grounds Management Inc., Donald F. Anderson, Markdon Realty, LLC, Anderson Services, LLC, and Hampden Bank
Allegation: Defendants Northeast Grounds and Milbier are in default on an $800,000 promissory note. All other defendants conspired with Milbier and Northeast Grounds to avoid paying amounts due under the note so as to enrich themselves at the plaintiff’s expense: $629,683.66
Filed: 11/27/13

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Amara Davis v. Karen Judge d/b/a Marche for Hair
Allegation: Negligence in property maintenance causing injury: $12,958.50
Filed: 12/9/13

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Easthampton Savings Bank v. Brian Burrows General Contracting & Home Improvement
Allegation: Breach of credit agreement: $10,567
Filed: 11/26/13

Jose Baez v. Beaudry Home Inspections
Allegation: Mold remediation to the basement of a home: $26,920.71
Filed: 10/25/13

TBF Financial v. Metal Mammoth Inc. d/b/a Heavy Metal
Allegation: Breach of lease agreement: $8,715.39
Filed: 10/22/13

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Jane A. Brooks v. West Springfield Fish and Game Club
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing trip and fall: $5,141.29
Filed: 11/12/13

Jaya Lodgings, LLC d/b/a Candlewood Suites v. Iron Horse Preservation Society Inc.
Allegation: Defendant owes for room charges for 392 nights at Candlewood Suites: $17,945.75
Filed: 12/2/13

Kasson & Keller v. Interstate Products
Allegation: Non-payment for services rendered: $20,097.36
Filed: 11/15/13

WGGB Inc. v. Donald D. Stowers Jr. d/b/a D&L Fence Co.
Allegation: Non-payment for advertising services rendered: $5,713.75
Filed: 11/19/13

Building Permits

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of December 2013.

AGAWAM

Dental Group
340 Walnut Street Ext.
$25,000 — Renovate 1,500 square feet for dental practice

Frank Decaro
1226B Springfield St.
$14,000 — Interior renovation for a coffee shop

Six Flags New England
1623 Main St.
$450,000 — Construction of new Sky Screamer ride

CHICOPEE

B-G Mechanical Contractors
6 2nd Ave.
$561,000 — Construct a 12,690-square-foot pre-engineered metal building

Birch Manor
455 Burnett Road
$8,500 — Re-roof

David Pulcini
747 Memorial Dr.
$4,000 — Install exhaust fan for pizza oven

Pioneer Valley Condo Assoc.
99-111 Colonial Circle
$23,500 — Strip and re-roof

GREENFIELD

Greenfield Housing Authority
1 Elm St.
$187,000 — Construct egress stair addition for basement offices

Shahid Habib
124 Conway St.
$13,000 — Exterior renovations

Patricia Wood
303 Wisdom Way
$214,000 — Construct two self-storage buildings

NORTHAMPTON

298 Main Street, LLC
298 Main St.
$314,000 — Interior renovation and elevator

Gere & Son Inc.
115 Conz St.
$8,500,000 — Construct a four-story Fairfield Inn-Marriott Hotel

Glandore, LLC
766 North King St.
$88,000 — Repair automobile damage

Harmonic Rock
125 Pleasant St.
$55,000 — Re-roof

Liberty Mutual Insurance
11 Village Hill Road
$263,000 — Construct partitions for tenant build out

Lloyd Tarlin
228 King St.
$54,000 — Interior fit out for Great Clips

Northampton Co-Operative Bank
65 King St.
$73,000 — Interior renovations

Northampton Housing Authority
96 Bridge St.
$32,000 — Replacement doors and accessible sidewalk

Pioneer Valley Transit Authority
54 Industrial Dr.
$1,110,000 — Interior renovations

Robert Curran
244 Main St.
$50,000 — Interior renovations

Smith College
Belmont Ave.
$4,112,000 — Construct two-story Wellness Health Center

William Phillips
149 Easthampton Road
$162,000 — Install 182 roof mounted solar panels

SOUTH HADLEY

Marois Construction
470 Granby Road
$1,399,000 — Medical office remodel

SOUTHWICK

Roof Diagnostics
6 Sterrett Dr.
$27,000 — Install 27 solar panels

SPRINGFIELD

3640 Main Street, LLC
3640 Main St.
$63,000 — 1582-square-foot office build-out

Baystate Health
298 Carew St.
$274,000 — Fit-out space for new pharmacy

Carpe Diem Apartments
1228-1240 Carew St.
$5,000 — Interior repairs

City of Springfield
773 Liberty St.
$80,000 — Convert library to social center

Mass Development Finance Agency
1550 Main St.
$122,000 — Tenant fit-out

New North Professional Condo Association
1795 Main St.
$144,000 — New roof

Pearson ADAP Development Co.
1322 Liberty St.
$35,000 — New roof

WP Realty, Inc.
1387 Liberty St.
$550,000 — Interior fit-out for gymnasium

WESTFIELD

Cumberland Farms
1134 Southampton Road
$569,000 — Construction of convenience store

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Bank of America
99 Westfield St.
$25,000 — Convert existing window to drive thru ATM

O’Connell Convenience Plus
2044 Riverside St.
$28,000 — Renovations

Real Estate Transactions

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

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

19 Chapin Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Samantha A. Fabian
Seller: Timothy W. Artus
Date: 11/26/13

CHARLEMONT

80 Warner Hill Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Brian C. Rose
Seller: Lorraine C. Cetto
Date: 11/27/13

DEERFIELD

Greenfield Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $247,000
Buyer: Walter Of Hadley Inc.
Seller: Gregory M. Gardner
Date: 11/14/13

640 Greenfield Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Lucas G. Hanks
Seller: Michael A. Urkiel
Date: 11/27/13

33 Upper Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: John F. Dubino
Seller: Jacqueline A. Hanlon
Date: 11/15/13

49 Whitmore Ferry Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Eric Lichter
Seller: Tatiana Scott
Date: 11/25/13

GILL

14 South Cross Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Karen Ross
Date: 11/26/13

GREENFIELD

20 Albert Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Carl Silver
Seller: Warren C. Pittenger
Date: 11/25/13

1035 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Ann M. Hall
Seller: Dashiell, Florence S., (Estate)
Date: 11/12/13

29 Brookside Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Allen M. Baker
Seller: Barbara S. Thomas
Date: 11/26/13

278 Conway St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $182,243
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Mark Duncan
Date: 11/14/13

427 Davis St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Paul F. Sirum
Seller: Francis G. Sirum
Date: 11/15/13

28 Linden Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Jovonna L. Pelt
Seller: Lyle F. Williams
Date: 11/15/13

40 Lovers Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Shanna L. Burke
Seller: William R. Hazlett
Date: 11/15/13

13 Oak St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: John R. Martin
Seller: Betty Snow
Date: 11/18/13

55 Riddell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Buyer: Beth M. Reynolds
Seller: Marjorie E. Faneuf
Date: 11/20/13

72 Vernon St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $136,300
Buyer: Matthew E. Hall
Date: 11/27/13

HEATH

230 Number 9 Road
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Michael C. Shattuck
Seller: Caracciolo, Jean F., (Estate)
Date: 11/25/13

LEVERETT

159 Long Plain Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jessica M. Rocheleau
Seller: Margery M. Noel
Date: 11/20/13

108 Old Mountain Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Jonathan R. Thompson
Seller: Juan C. Arean
Date: 11/12/13

LEYDEN

63 West Leyden Road
Leyden, MA 01301
Amount: $160,986
Buyer: Michael Dagilus
Seller: Christopher J. Morin
Date: 11/15/13

12 Zimmerman Hill Road
Leyden, MA 01337
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Franklin Land Trust Inc.
Seller: Phillip H. Zimmerman
Date: 11/15/13

MONTAGUE

4 9th Ave.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Catherine M. Cronk
Seller: Robert L. Adams
Date: 11/22/13

25 Montague St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $207,500
Buyer: Jonathan B. Scully
Seller: Nathaniel J. Malloy
Date: 11/22/13

83 Montague St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Paul A. Thayer
Seller: Harrington, Sharon, (Estate)
Date: 11/25/13

50 Prospect St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $243,000
Buyer: John E. Cagle
Seller: Edward F. Wilcox
Date: 11/26/13

108 South Prospect St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Leon R. Laster
Seller: Sarah E. Hammond
Date: 11/14/13

41 Turners Falls Road
Montague, MA 01301
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Jeremy M. Toal
Seller: Jeannine Huey
Date: 11/15/13

NORTHFIELD

233 Old Wendell Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Robert Girard
Seller: Helen L. Johnson
Date: 11/22/13

SHELBURNE

Bardwells Ferry Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Franklin Land Trust Inc.
Seller: Madeline C. McKinnon IRT
Date: 11/20/13

452 Colrain Shelburne Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: John N Hoffman
Seller: Richard H. Easton
Date: 11/13/13

1089 Mohawk Trail
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: David A. Healey
Seller: William M. Smith
Date: 11/15/13

64 Water St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Emily D. Howe
Seller: Nathalie A. McCormack
Date: 11/15/13

SUNDERLAND

153 Amherst Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $135,807
Buyer: RBS Citizens
Seller: Stephen R. McPheters
Date: 11/15/13

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

13 Barn Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Jeffrey J. Fay
Seller: Uwe H. Porth
Date: 11/27/13

51 Federal St. Ext.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Tracy Word
Seller: Terrence A. Cabey
Date: 11/26/13

66 Highland St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $184,000
Buyer: Jessica C. Nieves
Seller: Darrell M. Myco
Date: 11/25/13

42 Reed St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Anthony J. Grillo
Seller: Charles F. Denison
Date: 11/26/13

25 Seymour Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Vladimir Kindzerskiy
Seller: Audrey W. Besaw
Date: 11/27/13

41 Plumtree Way
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $387,500
Buyer: Igor Palgi
Seller: Kopatz Construction Inc.
Date: 11/21/13

86 Silver St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Jonathan Allard
Seller: Christopher Mastroianni
Date: 11/21/13

97 Silver St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Jean-Pierre Wood
Seller: Jules J. Lavalley
Date: 11/15/13

917 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $184,900
Buyer: Bernard W. Wangamati
Seller: Viktor Lysenko
Date: 11/25/13

BLANDFORD

9 Woronoco Road
Blandford, MA 01008
Amount: $152,886
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Kathleen R. Gilbreath
Date: 11/25/13

BRIMFIELD

10 Dearth Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: David J. Hirsch
Seller: Paul Rugani
Date: 11/27/13

68 Holland Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $224,000
Buyer: Daniel G. Ryan
Seller: Gary M. Wood
Date: 11/21/13

53 Prospect Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Andrew P. Rolinger
Seller: Dorothy H. Gerrish
Date: 11/29/13

166 Warren Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $212,500
Buyer: Eric D. Carley
Seller: Christopher C. Dorr
Date: 11/22/13

CHESTER

110 Emery St.
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $183,149
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Thomas R. Ouellette
Date: 11/15/13

CHICOPEE

223 Asselin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Wallace E. Kluza
Seller: Barbara D. Williams
Date: 11/15/13

306 Bostwick Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Kenneth A. Stacy
Seller: Mike Fregeau
Date: 11/15/13

106 Clark St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Rebecca A. Kessler
Seller: Kevin M. Klosek
Date: 11/26/13

112 Cobb Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Bradway
Seller: Barbara J. Frederick
Date: 11/22/13

47 Crestwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: James C. Pion
Seller: Mark S. Pion
Date: 11/19/13

34 Deslauriers St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Patrick J. Keefe
Seller: Patricia T. Novak
Date: 11/19/13

35 Edbert St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Timothy S. Geary
Seller: Carol C. Rogalski
Date: 11/26/13

228 Fairview Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Christopher P. Jurkowski
Seller: Dennis Jurkowski
Date: 11/13/13

60 Hawthorn St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Duane E. Sivard
Seller: Cheryl A. Peters
Date: 11/27/13

145 Holyoke Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Szymon P. Wolanczyk
Seller: Gladu, Claire R., (Estate)
Date: 11/13/13

16 Hyde Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Walter R. Lahair
Seller: Cindy F. Carabetta
Date: 11/15/13

277 Irene St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Nathan A. Hall
Seller: William Devine
Date: 11/22/13

164 Lukasik St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Sergei Cheremushkin
Seller: DGL Properties LLC
Date: 11/27/13

131 Manning St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Lori A. Letendre
Seller: Stephen E. Kamienski
Date: 11/26/13

232 McCarthy Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $164,500
Buyer: Heidi M. Heisler
Seller: Madeleine G. Jacques
Date: 11/26/13

105 Meadow St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $132,900
Buyer: Anmar Khalil
Seller: Hector Rivera
Date: 11/12/13

319 Montgomery St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $127,500
Buyer: Deborah A. Farrar
Seller: Clement M. Poitras
Date: 11/27/13

105 Northwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $156,400
Buyer: Andrew J. Potts
Seller: Maralee A. Smith
Date: 11/27/13

196 Nonotuck Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Joseph F. Chessey
Seller: John J. Regan
Date: 11/15/13

35 Orchard St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $191,100
Buyer: Philip Roberts
Seller: Mark W. Sims
Date: 11/27/13

851 Prospect St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Roger J. Martin
Seller: Jessica Dubois
Date: 11/27/13

32 Rimmon Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Julia Romero
Seller: Joshua Klein
Date: 11/26/13

85 Ruskin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Roger J. Hannigan
Seller: Maria M. Gauthier
Date: 11/15/13

143 Sesame Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Alex B. Devivo
Seller: James E. Hogan
Date: 11/25/13

318 Springfield St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Dean F. Parker
Seller: Stanley F. Lusnia
Date: 11/15/13

62 Stedman St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Melissa Sueiras
Seller: Morrissette, Andrew N., (Estate)
Date: 11/18/13

EAST LONGMEADOW

191 Chestnut St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: Tomroc Holdings LLC
Seller: Scott Pattenaude
Date: 11/22/13

87 Edmund St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Stephanie J. Dunaj
Seller: Benjamin Witruk
Date: 11/22/13

45 Gerrard Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $160,127
Buyer: Santander Bank
Seller: Christina A. Braska
Date: 11/12/13

90 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: MBQ Realty LLC
Seller: WJQ Realty LLC
Date: 11/13/13

38 Pleasant St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Kerri A. Cicia
Seller: An Dinh
Date: 11/21/13

335 Prospect St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Ashley McCarthy
Seller: Dylan E. Bond
Date: 11/26/13

45 Saint Joseph Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Shannon M. Murphy
Seller: Gemma A. Balukonis
Date: 11/26/13

341 Shaker Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: KRM Real Estate LLC
Seller: Gulf Printing Co.
Date: 11/21/13

HAMPDEN

27 Greenleaf Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: John W. Thompson
Seller: J. A. Comprone-Weber
Date: 11/18/13

97 Scantic Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Buyer: Benjamin R. Witruk
Seller: Timothy J. O’Brien
Date: 11/22/13

31 South Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $373,700
Buyer: James E. Arooth
Seller: Charlotte M. Thomas
Date: 11/12/13

198 Stafford Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $354,000
Buyer: Jeffrey N Schneider
Seller: Marc A. Pasteris
Date: 11/26/13

HOLYOKE

141 Cabot St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $242,500
Buyer: Holyoke Apartments LLC
Seller: Bayview Loan Servicing
Date: 11/18/13

17 Forestdale Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: Consurgo Properties LLC
Seller: Scott M. Tundermann
Date: 11/15/13

18 Knollwood Circle
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $165,900
Buyer: Michael J. Haas
Seller: Susan C. Seitz
Date: 11/27/13

26 Knollwood Circle
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $211,345
Buyer: Edmond Dupont
Seller: David Edelman
Date: 11/15/13

1125 Main St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $126,500
Buyer: Joshua Beauregard
Seller: Gary J. Provost
Date: 11/27/13

149 Morgan St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Bryan R. Horch
Seller: Robert W. Humphreys
Date: 11/15/13

66 Sherwood Terrace
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $145,915
Buyer: Aurelio Colon
Seller: Nsp Residential LLC
Date: 11/22/13

645 West Cherry St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Stuart G. Lempke
Seller: Ronald A. Fraser
Date: 11/12/13

316 Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Huel Fritz
Seller: Didonato, Marcella E., (Estate)
Date: 11/26/13

LONGMEADOW

8 Brookwood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: Geoffrey P. Adams
Seller: Ira M. Schoenberger
Date: 11/15/13

580 Frank Smith Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $446,500
Buyer: Andrew G. Fenster
Seller: Curtis G. Wohlers
Date: 11/15/13

64 Hawthorne St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $251,250
Buyer: Anthony J. Marchetta
Seller: Kristin L. Capell
Date: 11/12/13

190 Kenmore Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Joanne Leboeuf
Seller: Bethany L. Bollerman
Date: 11/15/13

635 Laurel St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $282,500
Buyer: Gregory Dumeny
Seller: Matthew W. MacDonald
Date: 11/14/13

80 Meadow Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Andrea M. Kureczka
Seller: Vera L. Scanlon
Date: 11/15/13

114 Riverview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $254,117
Buyer: David J. Loonie
Seller: Timothy S. Tehan
Date: 11/27/13

91 Williston Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Ira M. Schoenberger
Seller: Seymour M. Frankel
Date: 11/15/13

LUDLOW

70 Eden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: James J. Manewich
Seller: Denise Stuart
Date: 11/26/13

77 Gamache Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: William J. Musiak
Seller: Alfred F. Meher
Date: 11/15/13

24 Higher St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $132,886
Buyer: Michael Genereux
Seller: Alfred Lopes
Date: 11/22/13

107 Lakeview Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Vera L. Scanlon
Seller: Jennie Brodowski
Date: 11/27/13

Parker Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Antonio A. Dias
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 11/18/13

210 Prospect St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Edward N. Deragon
Seller: Wesley Blask
Date: 11/26/13

98 Tilley St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Westover Metropolitan Development Corp.
Seller: James J. Manewich
Date: 11/25/13

6 Warwick Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $249,999
Buyer: Erin K. Wasik-Gutierrez
Seller: James M. Wojnar
Date: 11/12/13

191 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Partyka Partners LP
Seller: Emile A. Pelletier
Date: 11/14/13

319 West Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Shawn Gomes
Seller: Fernando Vital
Date: 11/27/13

159 Whitney St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Ronald M. Hudon
Seller: Maria A. Soares
Date: 11/25/13

MONSON

119 Butler Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Holden C. Harlow
Seller: Martin, Katherine E., (Estate)
Date: 11/14/13

216 East Hill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $272,500
Buyer: Edward J. Veneto
Seller: Wayne A. Evans
Date: 11/15/13

79 Silver St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Carrie E. Franck
Seller: Marguerite Cusson
Date: 11/27/13

28 Waid Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Thomas E. Ballou
Seller: Donald J. Lemon
Date: 11/15/13

27 Zuell Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Tania Chrzanowski
Seller: Mark R. Hamel
Date: 11/27/13

MONTGOMERY

162 Pitcher St.
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Julia A. Connolly
Seller: Helga M. Sinhart
Date: 11/22/13

PALMER

92 Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Joseph F. Gulluni
Seller: Marilyn J. Synder
Date: 11/20/13

34 Forest Lake Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $207,000
Buyer: Elaine McNeill
Seller: Alexander G. Larosa
Date: 11/15/13

51 Fuller Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Nicholas Kalogeras
Seller: Jason Keegan
Date: 11/26/13

20 Glenn St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Holly A. Farrar
Seller: Sheila Rivest
Date: 11/18/13

36 Grove St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $145,873
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Laurie A. Rocco
Date: 11/15/13

30 King St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Francesco Cardaropoli
Seller: Legacy Strategic Inv. LP
Date: 11/15/13

4038 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: Anthony J. Jianaces
Seller: Scott W. Flowers
Date: 11/19/13

26 South St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Wayne S. Schofield
Seller: Gerald F. Flynn
Date: 11/13/13

SPRINGFIELD

16 Alden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Fathima LLC
Seller: BDMG LLC
Date: 11/26/13

1033 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $143,000
Buyer: Nercy Rodriguez
Seller: Minh Lam
Date: 11/13/13

50 Alsace St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Iris Martinez
Seller: Edwin Cartagena
Date: 11/25/13

55 Alvin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $151,000
Buyer: David Valentin
Seller: William C. McEwan
Date: 11/13/13

42 Amos Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Kelly M. Worthen
Seller: Ana Muller
Date: 11/19/13

61 Ashbrook St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Tasha J. Ellison
Seller: Visneau, Beverly F., (Estate)
Date: 11/15/13

213 Ashland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $123,500
Buyer: Jonathan P. Florian
Seller: Sarah J. Messier
Date: 11/14/13

12 Baird Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Deutsche Bank
Seller: Erika A. Colon
Date: 11/20/13

313 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $640,000
Buyer: Stoneridge Realty LLC
Seller: Robert T. Knight RE Inc.
Date: 11/13/13

383 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Stoneridge Realty LLC
Seller: Robert T. Knight RE Inc.
Date: 11/13/13

406 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Stoneridge Realty LLC
Seller: Robert T. Knight RE Inc.
Date: 11/13/13

892 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $133,000
Buyer: Sabrina S. Swinton
Seller: Wini L. Mercure
Date: 11/14/13

24 Bucholz St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: MA Mutual Life Insurance
Seller: Anita J. Hodges
Date: 11/19/13

11 Carlton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $117,900
Buyer: Giselle M. Pica
Seller: Anthony Carnevale
Date: 11/22/13

126 Clarendon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $266,280
Buyer: Walter W. Bigelow
Seller: Kenneth P. Freundt
Date: 11/15/13

66 Clearbrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $156,000
Buyer: Jonathon Nunez
Seller: Michael Porcello
Date: 11/14/13

144 Colorado St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $171,000
Buyer: Robert R. Balicki
Seller: Nolava LLC
Date: 11/15/13

37 Commonwealth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Kenrick Ngo
Seller: Daniel M. Glick
Date: 11/12/13

95 Corona St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $126,000
Buyer: Melissa A. Molina
Seller: Christine M. Burnett
Date: 11/27/13

39 Dorset St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Laura M. McTigue
Seller: Anthony Maloni
Date: 11/20/13

36 Ellendale Circle
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $132,000
Buyer: Mark Coffey
Seller: Albano, Pasquale, (Estate)
Date: 11/12/13

38 Emmet St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $129,799
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Noemi Diaz
Date: 11/29/13

45 Gerald St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $118,500
Buyer: Chanon C. Palm
Seller: Timothy M. Guilmain
Date: 11/26/13

254 Hartwick St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Nicola Liquori
Seller: Jack D. Warren
Date: 11/26/13

14 Inglewood Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Jacob Roy
Seller: Anita Allard
Date: 11/25/13

120 Leyfred Terrace
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Suanne A. Murrell
Seller: Martin Johnson
Date: 11/20/13

44 Mazarin St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Joao M. Pereria TR
Seller: Wieslaw Sokolowski
Date: 11/13/13

21 Nathaniel St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Yolma E. Ortiz
Seller: David A. Wilkinson
Date: 11/27/13

66 Newton Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Toghlob H. Mourad
Seller: Ethel M. Merchant
Date: 11/12/13

113 Old Brook Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $169,900
Buyer: Jennifer Martin
Seller: Margaret E. Murray
Date: 11/22/13

79 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $115,200
Buyer: Bank New York Mellon
Seller: Galen Keller
Date: 11/14/13

67 Pennsylvania Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Ashley J. Gagne
Seller: Kathleen A. Goodwin
Date: 11/20/13

184 Powell Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $148,500
Buyer: Joanne Harney
Seller: Elaine R. Hastings
Date: 11/19/13

25 Rock Hill Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $141,200
Buyer: Gilbert R. Barton
Seller: Edna E. Donegan
Date: 11/18/13

17 Slater Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $156,000
Buyer: Maple Tree Investments
Seller: Diane Manicki
Date: 11/22/13

16 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $576,000
Buyer: Stoneridge Realty LLC
Seller: Robert T. Knight RE Inc.
Date: 11/13/13

24 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Stoneridge Realty LLC
Seller: Robert T. Knight RE Inc.
Date: 11/13/13

831 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Jose L. Cuevas
Seller: Carlos A. Lopes
Date: 11/12/13

44 Thorndyke St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $140,399
Buyer: Lisa A. Moriarty
Seller: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Date: 11/22/13

26 Tioga St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Lauren S. Gougeon
Seller: Allie S. Hudroge
Date: 11/15/13

184 Tyler St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $201,981
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Antonio D. Grandoit
Date: 11/25/13

122 West Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Angel L. Ramos
Seller: Kenneth W. Ralph
Date: 11/25/13

115 White Birch Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Carlos A. Palacio
Seller: William M. Wagner
Date: 11/15/13

55 Wing St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Daniel R. Alpiarca
Seller: HSBC Bank USA NA
Date: 11/27/13

SOUTHWICK

95 Berkshire Ave.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $317,000
Buyer: William M. Pike
Seller: James Bona
Date: 11/22/13

105 Coes Hill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Tracy L. Gorman
Seller: Richard K. Seaver
Date: 11/12/13

15 Crystal Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $271,000
Buyer: Joseph J. Bailey
Seller: Timothy M. Zabik
Date: 11/15/13

49 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Eugene A. Kube
Seller: Tonga A. York
Date: 11/26/13

3 Iroquois Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $231,000
Buyer: Amanda L. Manzi
Seller: David A. Thimmesh
Date: 11/27/13

12 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $437,000
Buyer: Andrew W. Sexton
Seller: William R. Tynan
Date: 11/15/13

8 Reservoir Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $333,500
Buyer: Travis T. Keiderling
Seller: Jeffrey J. Fay
Date: 11/26/13

90 Will Palmer Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Bradford W. Fleming
Seller: Basista, Theodore J., (Estate)
Date: 11/26/13

TOLLAND

218 South Village Road
Amount: $232,900
Buyer: Roy P. Torzullo
Seller: Edward Zakowicz
Date: 11/12/13

219 Slope Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $163,250
Buyer: Salvatore J. Correnti
Seller: Schroeder TR
Date: 11/13/13

WALES

57 Monson Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Anatoliy A. Komarov
Seller: George P. Goulas
Date: 11/26/13

161 Stafford Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $133,900
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Besaw
Seller: John Paolucci
Date: 11/15/13

WESTFIELD

211 Barbara St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Rinaldi
Seller: Dennis F. Dalton
Date: 11/15/13

69 Deer Path Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Steven J. Beagle
Seller: Robert M. Jacques
Date: 11/22/13

6 Evergreen Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Richard E. Fuller
Seller: Kevin R. Fuller
Date: 11/21/13

8 Gold St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Carlos L. Matos
Seller: Jennie M. Kowalczyk
Date: 11/15/13

7 Laurel Terrace
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Chad C. Patterson
Seller: Jason W. Adams
Date: 11/15/13

11 Livingstone Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $217,242
Buyer: JP Morgan Chase Bank
Seller: Kristin A. Jachym

85 Mechanic St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $155,878
Buyer: USA HUD
Seller: Lisa E. Gonzales
Date: 11/14/13

265 Montgomery Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Steven P. Beals
Seller: Bent Tree Development LLC
Date: 11/13/13

38 Mountain View St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $224,900
Buyer: Sarah E. Warn
Seller: Catherine A. Harrington
Date: 11/25/13

422 North Elm St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Pumphrey RT
Seller: Wayne Fowles
Date: 11/29/13

2 Overlook Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: George J. Michael
Seller: Wied, William H., (Estate)
Date: 11/15/13

146 Sackett Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Christopher Adamczyk
Seller: William R. Gorman
Date: 11/12/13

37 Sackett Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Keith J. Lemon
Seller: Charles A. Smith
Date: 11/18/13

130 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $2,275,000
Buyer: Saremi LLP
Seller: Westfield N. Realty LLC
Date: 11/18/13

11 West School St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $126,500
Buyer: Barbara J. Oleksak
Seller: Rita D. Rodden
Date: 11/14/13

43 West Silver St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $156,300
Buyer: Roberto Deleon
Seller: Wilfredo V. Estrada
Date: 11/22/13

23 Wieser Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Kimberly A. Morin
Date: 11/25/13

WEST SPRINGFIELD

38 Ames Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Mihail Orlov
Seller: Kathleen D. Wuesthoff
Date: 11/25/13

232 Ashley Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Patricia A. Damato
Seller: Joseph J. Deedy
Date: 11/29/13

55 Circuit Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $866,250
Buyer: HR Massachusetts LLC
Seller: CT Valley Block Co. Inc.
Date: 11/18/13

13 Cora St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: John T. Langlois
Seller: Steven S. Follett
Date: 11/15/13

59 Druids Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $213,553
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jacqueline C. Moody
Date: 11/15/13

40 Elm Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Gerald Triggs
Seller: Phillips, Rita J., (Estate)
Date: 11/15/13

56 Hanover St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Glenn G. Rocheleau
Seller: Maria A. Lombardi
Date: 11/27/13

206 Hillcrest Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Luuy Hoang
Seller: Kerri A. Cicia
Date: 11/19/13

60 Labelle St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Pavel Khodunov
Seller: FNMA
Date: 11/27/13

297 Morgan Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $150,200
Buyer: Nicole B. Montminy
Seller: Robert Holmes
Date: 11/21/13

40 Piper Cross Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Adam C. Belson
Seller: Lauren M. Krok
Date: 11/27/13

1461 Riverdale St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: 635 Riverdale Street LLC
Seller: Barbara E. Doty
Date: 11/15/13

702 Rogers Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Marianna Cosentini
Seller: Patricia E. Stamand
Date: 11/15/13

110 Sawmill Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $259,000
Buyer: Scott Joubert
Seller: Shalu George
Date: 11/15/13

58 Thomas Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Kazbek Aldabayev
Seller: Timothy J. Lynch
Date: 11/22/13

697 Union St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Union St. Auto Sales LLC
Seller: Richard D. Rindels
Date: 11/15/13

43 Virginia Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $208,500
Buyer: William A. Moynihan
Seller: Elizabeth A. Cilley
Date: 11/15/13

35 Woodbrook Ter
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Sanjay A. Patel
Seller: Frank J. Capuano
Date: 11/26/13

WILBRAHAM

6 Decorie Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $171,000
Buyer: Tanya M. Basile
Seller: Virginia R. Swallow
Date: 11/14/13

400 Dipping Hole Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Mohsen Shabani
Seller: Gary R. Tallman
Date: 11/13/13

45 East Longmeadow Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Patrick R. Farrow
Seller: Michael D. Mirakian
Date: 11/15/13

8 Meadowview Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Jose N Diniz
Seller: Michelle Y. Jacques
Date: 11/14/13

5 Ronald Circle
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $190,887
Buyer: RBS Citizens NA
Seller: Verna L. Ledoux
Date: 11/20/13

15 Ruth Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $276,500
Buyer: Jaime A. Lopez
Seller: Magarian, Mary E., (Estate)
Date: 11/18/13

10 Stirling Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Clifford W. Zimmer
Seller: Emily R. Gralia
Date: 11/22/13

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

209 Alpine Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $404,000
Buyer: Douglas Salvador
Seller: Navneet Marwaha
Date: 11/15/13

Kingman Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Prashant J. Shenoy
Seller: Bruce H. Patterson
Date: 11/20/13

30 Main St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $1,400,000
Buyer: Amherst Building LLC
Seller: Amherst Realty Co. Inc.
Date: 11/15/13

20 Overlook Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: Kathleen A. Lazdowski
Seller: Schiller RET
Date: 11/18/13

Potwine Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Town Of Amherst
Seller: Lorraine H. Brunelle
Date: 11/25/13

233 Stanley St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $207,000
Buyer: John J. Driscoll
Seller: Erin E. Jacque
Date: 11/21/13

65 West St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $372,000
Buyer: Javad Moshfegh
Seller: Anne M. Mcintosh
Date: 11/22/13

BELCHERTOWN

91 Eskett Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Eliza A. Summers
Seller: Robert S. Allard RET
Date: 11/14/13

233 Federal St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: John A. Nally
Date: 11/15/13

590 North Washington St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Michael Teixeira
Seller: Daniel J. O’Connor
Date: 11/25/13

43 Old Bay Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $222,800
Buyer: Lee C. Larcheveque
Seller: Jeffrey A. Dauber
Date: 11/19/13

19 Robin Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Joydell Cebula
Seller: Donald S. Carano
Date: 11/15/13

581 State St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Stephanie St.Denis
Seller: Elaine L. English
Date: 11/15/13

24 Wilson Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $261,500
Buyer: Nina R. Sossen
Seller: Seamus A. Decker
Date: 11/25/13

CHESTERFIELD

242 Bryant St.
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Lauren R. Guilmette
Seller: Joseph L. Guerin
Date: 11/26/13

CUMMINGTON

58 Nash Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Edward S. Konieczny
Seller: David F. Robb
Date: 11/15/13

EASTHAMPTON

10 Bryan Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: Koni F. Denham
Seller: James P. Wales
Date: 11/21/13

301 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: F&G LLC
Seller: Harriet R. Kulig
Date: 11/22/13

62 Garfield Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Benjamin M. Nardone
Seller: Beth A. Castaldo
Date: 11/21/13

10 Grove St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Michael C. McGuire
Seller: Demarais FT
Date: 11/25/13

193 Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: John Morin
Seller: 94 Industrial Drive LLC
Date: 11/27/13

9 Oakdale Place
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Juan S. Suarez
Seller: Golash, Celia, (Estate)
Date: 11/26/13

27 Pine Hill Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Wendy Lass-Luzi
Seller: Alexander D. Prado
Date: 11/26/13

9 Stanley St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Katie M. Houle
Seller: Maureen S. Parker
Date: 11/22/13

GOSHEN

102 Bissell Road
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Colleen E. Culver
Seller: Dana M. Culver
Date: 11/19/13

65 Pond Hill Road
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jonathan R. Bean
Seller: Dylan G. Mailloux
Date: 11/25/13

48 Sears Road
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Melanie A. Kourbage
Seller: Elizabeth L. Labier
Date: 11/18/13

GRANBY

374 Batchelor St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Alice Vlasanko
Seller: Susan P. Perrailt
Date: 11/13/13

East St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Westover Metropolitan Development Corp.
Seller: James A. Manewich
Date: 11/25/13

101 Easton St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Dianna L. Richard
Seller: Sanford Grenier
Date: 11/25/13

7 Grandview Ave.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Kane
Seller: USA HUD
Date: 11/18/13

South St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Audrey G. Walker
Seller: George N Galusha
Date: 11/13/13

HADLEY

55 Chmura Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Robert C. Pelis
Seller: Steinberger, Marion M., (Estate)
Date: 11/26/13

55 Huntington Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $317,500
Buyer: Shasta Kielbasa
Seller: Eileen F. Monopoli
Date: 11/29/13

127 Rocky Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $268,000
Buyer: Toni L. Morelli
Seller: Dirck L. Dimock
Date: 11/15/13

3 Sylvia Hts.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Andre R. Laflamme
Seller: Valley Buillding Co. Inc.
Date: 11/27/13

1 Szafir Lane
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: James T. Henderson
Seller: Buckowski, Florence C., (Estate)
Date: 11/22/13

26 West St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: John P. Regish
Seller: Robert J. McQueston
Date: 11/22/13

HATFIELD

West St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Southland Log Homes Realty
Seller: Richard F. Thayer
Date: 11/19/13

HUNTINGTON

3 Allen Coit Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Donna Perzan
Seller: Dominic C. Nett
Date: 11/15/13

5 Allen Coit Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Donna Perzan
Seller: Dominic C. Nett
Date: 11/15/13

21 Old Chester Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $229,000
Buyer: Gary L. Hamel
Seller: Gergory R. Nuttelman
Date: 11/26/13

27 Searle Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $131,969
Buyer: David E. Collette
Seller: Deutsche Bank
Date: 11/26/13

61 Searle Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $208,900
Buyer: Kyle Colby
Seller: Joseph G. Bergeron
Date: 11/15/13

NORTHAMPTON

25 Arlington St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Mark Wineburg
Seller: Jodi M. Kirchner LT
Date: 11/25/13

43 Beattie Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: William Z. Forray
Seller: Peter F. Kistenmacher
Date: 11/18/13

62 Bliss St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Scott D. Bertrand
Seller: Joyce C. Bertrand
Date: 11/15/13

76 Bliss St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $167,500
Buyer: Evan T. Vaine
Seller: Jean M. Bayer
Date: 11/15/13

19 Columbus Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Peter A. Pacosa
Seller: Edward S. Zuchowski
Date: 11/22/13

13 Dimock St.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Diane M. Drohan
Seller: Georgiann Kristek LT
Date: 11/27/13

37 Drewsen Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $230,500
Buyer: Robert Baird
Seller: George B. Scheurer
Date: 11/26/13

111 Emerson Way
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $487,850
Buyer: Harris B. Shaffer
Seller: Hampshire Property Management Group

17 Hickory Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Tuperkeizsis
Seller: Gallup, Shirley M., (Estate)
Date: 11/12/13

106 Industrial Dr.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hytech Park Properties LLC
Seller: William T. Baird
Date: 11/22/13

194 Jackson St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Dustin A. Cote
Seller: Grimes, Joanna A., (Estate)
Date: 11/22/13

51 Jackson St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $264,000
Buyer: Caren Bendror
Seller: Emily K. Bowden
Date: 11/18/13

51 Phillips Place
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Linda S. Muerle
Seller: June Turcotte
Date: 11/18/13

125 Pleasant St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $2,555,000
Buyer: Harmonic Rock Realty LLC
Seller: Union Square RT
Date: 11/14/13

58 South Park Terrace
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $189,800
Buyer: W&N Summer LLC
Seller: Packard, Helen B., (Estate)
Date: 11/12/13

PELHAM

136 Amherst Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $227,000
Buyer: Amanda L. Huhmann
Seller: Flavio Risech
Date: 11/15/13

SOUTH HADLEY

84 Alvord St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Buyer: John B. Hughes
Seller: Maria R. Antonio
Date: 11/15/13

478 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Gerald Lorenz
Seller: Jefferey Bessette
Date: 11/22/13

37 Ashton Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $314,000
Buyer: William D. Williams
Seller: John R. Hyde
Date: 11/15/13

139 Brainerd St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Martin M. Mendes
Seller: Richard S. Maldanis
Date: 11/25/13

64 Charon Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: James W. Graves
Seller: Constance F. Odell
Date: 11/15/13

27 Foch Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Melissa A. Aslin
Seller: Investment Enterprise LLC
Date: 11/27/13

495 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Brian Trompke
Seller: Arthur R. Lemire
Date: 11/19/13

475 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $189,400
Buyer: James D. Bothwell
Seller: Edward P. Dechellis
Date: 11/22/13

168 Lathrop St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Adam K. Boyer
Seller: Ciesluk, Paul J., (Estate)
Date: 11/15/13

110 Mosier St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $635,137
Buyer: Bank New York
Seller: Daniel A. Champagne
Date: 11/18/13

351 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Property Management LLC
Seller: Bruce T. Carl
Date: 11/20/13

27 Silver St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Todd F. Bachelder
Seller: Jeanne P. Brownlow
Date: 11/15/13

36 Westbrook Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $198,500
Buyer: Jeffrey Chmiel
Seller: Eleanor A. Perreault
Date: 11/27/13

SOUTHAMPTON

38 Cottage Ave.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Carl E. Scheinost
Seller: Gregory H. Boisvere
Date: 11/27/13

14 Crooked Ledge Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Joseph W. Marcoux
Seller: Mickey J. Willis
Date: 11/22/13

100 Fomer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Jim Hornickel
Seller: Michael J. Kent
Date: 11/22/13

5 Katelyn Way
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Anthony F. Gleason
Seller: Ronald J. Gordon
Date: 11/26/13

WARE

712 Belchertown Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Guy P. Savoie
Seller: Gary S. Pfisterer
Date: 11/18/13

16 Elm St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $312,500
Buyer: Robert S. Shurtleff
Seller: Frederick A. Lotuff
Date: 11/26/13

WESTHAMPTON

21 Pine Island Lake
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Nancy Bals
Seller: Joseph J. O’Hare
Date: 11/27/13

WILLIAMSBURG

84 Petticoat Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Joan Muellner
Seller: Michael S. Gove
Date: 11/15/13

Bankruptcies

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Bankruptcies Departments

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

Allen, Gerald S.
Allen, Nancy L.
723 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Askew, Deborah
37 Bevier St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/25/13

Banas, Stephen K.
501 Royalston Road
Phillipston, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Bardwell, James W.
12 Hebert Dr.
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Bernardes, Jordan E.
334 Woodland Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/25/13

Bothwell, Dianne Lynn
7 Quarry St.
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Boudreau, George V.
Boudreau, Diane E.
84 Anderson Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/21/13

Caron, Peter E.
Caron, Jayne M.
31 Old Post Road, Apt. B
Worthington, MA 01098
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Cruz, Yamil Ivette
131 Gardens Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Deluca, Kevin A.
Deluca, Christie
64 Brickyard Ext.
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/25/13

Desrosiers, Anthony R.
30 Langdon St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/27/13

Eddy, Joseph James
Eddy, Eve Marie
a/k/a Hovermale, Eve Marie
27 Walnut St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Fitch, Gail S.
105 Vincent Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Garttmeyer, Cynthia M.
a/k/a Naputi, Cynthia M.
609 College Highway
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/27/13

Giraldi, Arlene E.
a/k/a Pena, Arlenne G.
93 Crescent Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013-1936
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Gustafson, Dana C.
Gustafson, Amybeth
a/k/a Koetsch, Amybeth
40 Signal Hill Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/25/13

Hanson, Douglas I.
Hanson, Beverly A.
P.O. Box 548
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Houghtlin, Gary L.
Houghtlin, Kathryn A.
175 Church St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Lane-Zucker, Laurie John
27 North Undermountain Road
Sheffield, MA 01257
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/26/13

Lewicki, Jane A.
28 Stewart St.
P.O. Box 342
Bondsville, MA 01009
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Lopez, Joel
a/k/a Lopez Mendez, Joel
2994 Main St., Apt. 1
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/27/13

Maldonado, Sheila M.
22 Charles St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/21/13

Martinez, Lynette
15 Girard Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Matthews, Harold C.
340 Walnut Hill Road
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

McPherson, Kimberly M.
a/k/a Bissaillon, Kimberly
13 Nonotuck Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Merriam, April
25 Cobblestone Cove
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Meserve, Douglas D.
135 Stebbins St.
Chicopee, MA 01020-1620
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Moreland, Brittany A.
103 Birchwood Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/26/13

Nastanski, Lillian M.
98 Redlands St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/21/13

O’Connor, Lawrence G.
10 Lakeshore Dr., Apt. 2
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/21/13

Oksuz, Pasa
134 College Highway
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/21/13

Paquin, Lester W.
120 Pleasant St.
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/19/13

Provost, Gerard A.
41 Dressel Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Roach, Garret J.
PO Box 301
Bondsville, MA 01009
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/16/13

Rodriguez, Juan R.
79 Humbert St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/19/13

Rodriguez, Milagros A
a/k/a Pimentel, Milagros
47 Parkside St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Rollins, Sandra T.
100 Clark St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Sexton, Eileen Marie
29 Perkins St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Silva, David H.
9 Bradlind Ave.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Silva, Edith A.
158 East River St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Silva, Thomas D.
9 Bradlind Ave.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Smith, Willie J.
123 Bay St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/18/13

Strange, Tara Anne
229 Green Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/25/13

Stribley, Lynnette K.
76 Bay Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/26/13

The Kung Fu Academy
Ostrander, Mark A.
36 Osborne Terrace
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Thompson, Richard Paul
Thompson, Christine B.
9 Advent Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/26/13

Tinney, Donald R.
103 Plunkett St.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/22/13

Tomasine, Santo J.
Tomasine, Deborah Y.
a/k/a Tomasine, Savannah
186 Main St.
Haydenville, MA 01039
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Turn Key Marketing
Cummings, Robert D.
164 Arnold Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7

Walton, Nancy
52 Boucher Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/20/13

Whitney, Beverley R
186 Breckenridge St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/26/13

Doing Business as Certificates

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2013.

AGAWAM

A & B Properties
134 Tobacco Farm Road
Alan Betournay

Air Duct Cleaning
31 St. Jacques Ave.
Eric Vieu

DD Appliances & More
766 Springfield St.
David Roman

Prime Construction
1004 North St.
Vladislav Vorobel

Sullivan Consulting
94 Dogwood Lane
Michael Sullivan

Tech Bootcamps
503 Silver St.
Tatiana DiDonato

CHICOPEE

Cordero Digital Consulting
91 Providence St.
Felix Cordero

Flowers by Andre
24 Billings St.
Andre Palatino

Jess Daycare
165 Szetela Dr.
Jessica Thornton

Music Sound
57 Larchmont St.
Natalya Arbuzov

Tree of Life Journeys
188 Chicopee St.
Kathi Munson

EAST LONGMEADOW

Advanced Urology of New England
40 Crane Ave.
Jacqueline Brecht

All Hose Inc.
341 Shaker Rd.
Timothy J. McCoy

Baystate Rug Distributors Inc.
55 North Main St.
Joseph Montemagni

Danny’s PC Repair
624 North Main St.
Minh Vien

Erin Chrusciel Photography
28 Country Club Dr.
Erin Chrusciel

Logo Effect
21 Redstone Dr.
Bonnie Pellerin

Nail Party
628 North Main St.
Jong K. Lee

The Ideal Way
280 North Main St.
Dierdre Pizzoferrato

Shosana P. Fitness
576 North Main St.
Shoshana Porter

The Spa of Eden Skin & Body
51 Prospect St.
Yelena Ivanov

Toner Plastics Inc.
35 Industrial Dr.
Steven Graham

HOLYOKE

Holyoke Works
100 Front St.
Larry Bay

Plumtree Products
48 Jefferson St.
Amy V. Meo

Tutti Frutti Frozen Yogurt
50 Holyoke St.
Huot Ang

LUDLOW

Nutritional Services Consulting
54 Owens Way
Lynn Moylan

Palatino Auto & Truck Repair
110 Moody St.
Adelino Palatino

Roberts Auto Body
119 Carmelino Circle
Miroslaw Kopec

NORTHAMPTON

Finding Earth Works
29 Columbus Ave.
Alexandra Schroeder

Haven Body Arts, LLC
108 Main St.
Penelope Silverstein

Ken Hobby Design Build
95 South St.
Ken Hobbs

Main Street Haircuts
17 Main St.
Jessy Kaminski

Ninth Amulet
225 Elm St.
Elizabeth Beller

Sunnyside Childcare
557 Easthampton Road
Shelley Hinderbaker

PALMER

Motyka Funeral Home
2186 Main St.
George Motyka

Tang’s Chinese Restaurant
1581 North Main St.
Xiu Z. Chi

The Turtle Pond Tavern
349 Wilbraham St.
Karl Benware

Tricia’s Techniques
1461 North Main St.
Patricia Woffenden

SOUTHWICK

D & S Manufacturing
10 Hudson Dr.
Richard Sosnowich

Mark’s Property Services
45 Hillside Road
Mark Kuchachik

SPRINGFIELD

A & S Convenience Store
276 Oakland St.
Muhmmad Ashraf

ABA General Contracting
251 Senator St.
Olga Jagiello

Baystate Health System
345 Page Blvd.
Dennis Chalke

Centro de Nutricion
181 Chestnut St.
Clemente Orlando

China Bo Express
762 Boston Road
Tok Chang

Concentra
140 Carando Dr.
Baystate, LLC

Energizing N’ Touch Massage
529 Main St.
Hermenia Grayson

ETL’s Pharaohs Realm
691 State St.
Eddie T. Long

Family Pawn
461 Main St.
Hai D. Duong

Gordo Wireless World
856 Main St.
Maringel Benitez

Jay’s Nest, LLC
884 Sumner Ave.
Janette Ortiz

WESTFIELD

A Dream Come True Learning Centers
1029 North Road
Monica Crimmins

Avery Bats
77 Mill St.
Matthew Avery

Berkshire Product Group, LLC
16 Union Ave.
Scott Renius

Sisters Canvas & Custom Sewing
24 Elm St.
Kelly B. Houlihan

Trend Sound Promoter
176 Springdale Road
Lidia A. Grusetchi

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Dante Club Inc.
1198 Memorial Ave.
Harry Willey

Friendly’s
1094 Riverdale St.
Shanna Rhoades

Healthtrax Fitness
155 Ashley Ave.
Marina Lebo

Integrated Marketing
117 Upper Beverly Hills
Page One Productions

K and C Associates, LLC
92 Cataumet Lane
Catherine R. Hedges

Keuco Group of Bernardston
1299 Riverdale St.
Kevin Pernice

Paint Nite Springfield
93 Bonair Ave.
Christina Udas

River Inn Motel
55 Main St.
Ohm Namoshiray

Sibley Property Services
101 Sibley Ave.
John Alexander

U-Haul Company of Mass
380 Union St.
Emma Gilsdorf

Wicked Salon
338 Westfield St.
Michaela M. Murray

Worldwide Staffing
425 Union St.
KWLS Inc.

Yolanda Landscaping
596 Main St.
Maria Rodriguez

Incorporations

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Departments Incorporations

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

EAST LONGMEADOW

Verendus Holdings Inc., 444A North Main St., Suite 234, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Dominic Kirchner II, same. Management and consulting.

FEEDING HILLS

Rick’s Pools Inc., 507 Springfield St., Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Robert Fleming, 418 Wilbraham Street, Palmer, MA 01069. Swimming pool maintenance and repair.

The JW Academy High School Inc., 404 Barry St., Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Trina Linette Davis, same. Charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes.

NORTHAMPTON

Citysprout Inc., 136 West St., Suite 102B, Northampton, MA 01060. William J. Trienens, same. Connecting consumers through web and mobile social commerce platforms.

Florence Medical Uniforms Inc., 64 Gothic Suite 8, Northampton, MA 01060. Christopher Gentili MR, 51 Edencrest Dr., Cranston, CT 02920. Retail sales of medical uniforms and accessories.

PITTSFIELD

Financial Accounting Services Inc., One Pheasant Way, Pittsfield, MA 01201-9123. T. Neal Burton II, same. Accounting service for small businesses.

SOUTHAMPTON

Classic Burgers Inc., 114 White Loaf Road, Southampton, MA 01077. Barry G. Parker, same. Restaurant.

Laurin Builders Inc., 317 College Highway, Southampton, MA 01073. Ronald D. Laurin, same. Construction.

SPRINGFIELD

Conde Tech Systems Inc., 58 Edwards St., Suite #402, Springfield, MA 01105. C. Whitaker Battle, same. SIP manufacturing.

Mi Pais Restaurant Corporation, 344 Bay St., Springfield, MA 01109. Juan Carmelo Rodriguez, 95 Beaumont St., Springfield, MA 01109. Restaurant and take out.

Springfield Bone & Joint, P.C., 299 Carew St., Suite 305, Springfield, MA 01104. Michael J. Craig, same. Professional services specializing in orthopedics surgery and medicine.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

West Springfield Veterans Council Inc., 63 Morton St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Jose Irizarry, 182 Greystone Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089. To promote the welfare of honorably discharged members of the US military services.

WESTFIELD

Westfield-West Springfield Lodge of Elks Inc. #1481, 56 Franklin St., Westfield, MA 01085. Christopher J. Chistolini, 48 Colony Circle, Westfield, MA 01085. Non-profit fraternal organization.

Briefcase

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Briefcase Departments

Baystate Health to Acquire Wing Memorial Hospital and Medical Centers
PALMER — The boards of trustees of UMass Memorial Health Care (UMMHC), Baystate Health, and Wing Memorial Hospital and Medical Centers have authorized the organizations to sign a letter of intent to transfer of ownership of Palmer-based Wing Memorial to Baystate Health. The potential transaction now enters a period of review and due diligence within the organizations and in partnership with the relevant regulatory and oversight bodies. This work is expected to occur over the next several months. In the meantime, it will be operations as usual at the two organizations and at Wing Memorial. This letter of intent builds on a long-existing relationship between the two not-for-profit health systems and is also a result of the closer collaboration that UMMHC and Baystate Health announced in September, when the two systems agreed to explore a number of possible opportunities with the intent of improving quality, access, and affordability of care. Thus far, those discussions have advanced in the areas of sharing best practices in quality and population health management and jointly applying for grant funding for public-health research. The two organizations continue discussing other opportunities, including shared training methodologies and better coordination of specialty services. “Wing Memorial Hospital has a strong, historical place in the community it serves. Our dedicated staff and employees live and work in this community, and the high-quality care they provide has earned the trust and support of our neighbors and patients,” said Dr. Charles Cavagnaro III, president and CEO of Wing Memorial Hospital and Medical Centers. “For us to potentially be part of a vibrant, local and regional health system closer to home that allows for improved access to and recruitment of specialists, access to capital investment, an accountable-care organization, and further supports for our patients and their families is a win-win. This continuum of care for our patients, which starts at our front door, is most importantly at the center of these discussions.” Added Mark Tolosky, president and CEO of Baystate Health, “while we recognize that we are only at the beginning of a long and complex process, we are very excited at the prospect of welcoming Wing Memorial, its patients, and employees to the Baystate Health family. We at Baystate Health have a great deal in common with Wing Memorial: excellence in clinical care, common missions to improve health, well-established histories of caring for patients and our communities, and a strong shared geography.” Dr. Eric Dickson, president and CEO of UMMHC, called Wing a valued member of the UMass Memorial system since 1999. “This is a difficult decision, but it makes the most sense for the patients — who are at the heart of our decision — to become part of a regional academic healthcare system that will keep patients home, healthy, and free from needing to travel outside the area for advanced care. A potential transfer of ownership allows both of our healthcare systems to provide high-quality, safe, and affordable care, close to home.” Neither UMass Memorial Health Care nor Baystate Health expect to change their academic affiliations as a result of the potential transfer of ownership, nor will the letter of intent limit the ability of either party to pursue other strategic opportunities.

Holyoke to Fund Facade Improvement
HOLYOKE — The City of Holyoke has awarded the Greater Holyoke Chamber Centennial Foundation $50,000 through the city’s Community Development Block Grant Program to reinstate the Facade Improvement Program (FIP), which was run by the chamber in past years. “As downtown Holyoke moves towards its revitalization, it is important to appropriately allocate funding for projects that send the message to business owners that our city is as invested in the success of their business as they are,” Mayor Alex Morse said. “This is an important program that I am excited to see return, and I am confident that these improvements will not only benefit business owners, but also the downtown community as a whole.” The funds are in the form of a grant that must be matched in equal amounts of the request up to $25,000. The Facade Improvement Program was designed to strengthen and enhance Holyoke’s business districts by restoring and improving existing facades. The FIP is administered by the Greater Holyoke Chamber Centennial Foundation with funding from the City of Holyoke Office for Community Development. It offers rebates to eligible property owners for up to 50% of the façade-improvement project cost. The minimum rebate is $2,500 for at least a $5,000 project, and the maximum rebate is $25,000 for at least a $50,000 project. “We are very excited to be able to offer this program to our downtown businesses in an effort to help them improve their facades and hopefully their business as well, said Kathleen Anderson, president of the Greater Holyoke Chamber Centennial Foundation. “We appreciate the award from the city in an effort to support downtown business. We have such beautiful architecture downtown, and this program will help to restore these buildings so that they can last for another 100 years.” Applicants should apply through the Greater Holyoke Chamber Centennial Foundation. Potential applicants may contact Kathleen Anderson at (413) 534-3376 to determine FIP eligibility and to request an application package. The funds are used strictly to renovate the front facade of a building.

State Awards $79 Million to Infrastructure Projects
BOSTON — In continuation of the Patrick administration’s efforts to stimulate job creation and support long-term economic growth, state Housing and Economic Development Secretary Greg Bialecki announced more than $79 million for 33 MassWorks Infrastructure Program grants to support development throughout the Commonwealth. “The MassWorks program is a key tool in our growth strategy of investing in education, innovation, and infrastructure to create jobs and economic development,” said Gov. Deval Patrick. “By partnering with municipalities, these MassWorks projects will strengthen communities for generations to come.” Added Bialecki, “we remain committed to working with local communities to help identify opportunities to support growth and spur regional development. I look forward to our ongoing partnerships with municipalities across the state and private industry leaders to explore additional ways to promote continued growth in every region of the Commonwealth.” Through these grants, the state will partner with cities and towns to target investments in infrastructure such as roadways, streetscapes, water, and sewer to facilitate and support new and sustained housing and economic growth throughout Massachusetts. The 2013 application round generated 108 applications for more than $263 million in infrastructure requests. Of the 33 approved projects, 11 are in the four counties of Western Mass., including: Conway, downtown parking and safety improvements ($997,521); Deerfield, River Road roadway reconstruction ($952,463); Easthampton, Pleasant Street infrastructure improvements, phase 2 ($1.5 million); Hadley, Shattuck Road improvements ($61,815); Mount Washington, BashBish Falls Road project ($1 million); Pittsfield, streetscape improvements, phase 3 ($2 million); Savoy, Black Brook Road drainage improvements and road reconstruction ($997,112); Tolland, Route 57 improvements ($990,000); Wales, Union Road roadway and drainage improvements ($881,923); Warwick, Winchester Road paving ($495,000); and West Stockbridge, downtown improvements ($1 million). Administered by the Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development (HED), the MassWorks Infrastructure Program provides a one-stop shop for municipalities seeking funding to support housing, economic development, and job creation with a particular emphasis on assisting communities to advance multi-family housing development. Each year, the program allocates 10% of its funds to assist municipalities with populations of 7,000 or fewer complete roadway safety-improvement projects. For more information, visit www.mass.gov/eohed/massworks.

State’s Unemployment Surpasses National Rate
The Massachusetts unemployment rate in November surpassed the national rate for the first time in more than five years, suggesting weaker conditions in the Bay State even as the national economic recovery accelerates. The state unemployment rate was 6.4% in April, compared to 7.5% nationally. In November, the state rate was 7.1%, compared to 7% nationally, according to the state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. It was the first time since May 2007 that state unemployment exceeded the national rate. Economists said automatic federal budget cuts, known as sequestration, have taken a disproportionate toll on the state economy because of the high concentration of research institutions and defense contractors here that rely on federal grants and other funding. A recent report by the UMass Donahue Institute estimated that sequestration has cost the state about 14,000 real or expected jobs in roughly the past year. It also estimated that the cutbacks reduced the state’s economic output by $1.4 billion, resulting in a $63 million decrease in state tax revenues.

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Company Notebook Departments

Big Y Opens First Fuel and Convenience Location
SPRINGFIELD — Big Y Express Fuel and Convenience opened earlier this month at 320 Housatonic St. in Lee on Route 20, off exit 2 of the Massachusetts Turnpike. Big Y Express represents a new venture and a partnership between two long-established Western Mass. family-owned businesses, Big Y Foods Inc. and F.L. Roberts & Co. Big Y Express is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is also just several hundred feet away from Big Y’s World Class Market in Lee. The inaugural 2,000-square-foot Lee location is the result of an alliance that incorporates what Big Y officials are calling “new and unique retail design and merchandising trends.” It features the traditional F.L. Roberts product mix along with many Big Y proprietary private-brand products including grocery, snacks, and freshly made, ready-to-eat offerings such as sandwiches, hot dogs, fountain soda, freshly brewed coffee, pastries, and fresh fruit. In addition, F.L. Roberts Rewards Plus loyalty cards along with Big Y Silver Savings Club cards can be used for more discounts at the pump and on items inside the store. And Big Y’s Express Rewards silver and gold coins can be redeemed for cents off per gallon at the pump. There are eight pump positions, with regular, unleaded, premium, and diesel fuels supplied by F.L. Roberts, which is the operating partner and responsible for the 10 Big Y Express employees. Many supermarket chains throughout the country own and operate gas and convenience stores in addition to supermarket formats. Coborns in Minnesota, Giant Eagle in Pittsburgh, and KVAT in Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee all operate both formats, as does Stop & Shop locally. With its alliance with F.L. Roberts, Big Y combines the expertise of the largest independent petroleum marketer in Western Mass. with the largest independently owned and operated supermarket chain in New England. According to Big Y President and COO Charles D’Amour, “we get the best of both worlds with our Big Y Express partnership. On the one hand, we are learning about gas stations and convenience stores. On the other, we are providing our expertise in food coupled with our strong private brand to enhance the experience for our customers.” Steve Roberts, F.L. Roberts’s president, expressed the same enthusiasm for this partnership. “Two well-established companies have combined their expertise to help each other grow to better service our customers and communities.” Headquartered in Springfield, Big Y boasts 61 locations throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts and more than 10,000 employees. The fourth-generation, family-owned F.L. Roberts was founded in 1920 by Frank Roberts as an automotive-parts and tire business in the South End of Springfield. Today, the company has expanded to include other automotive specialties at nearly 60 sites with 500 employees in Massachusetts and Connecticut. The company’s network of automotive-service companies includes 26 convenience stores, 20 car washes, nine Jiffy Lubes, two truck-fueling centers, and the Whately Diner.

AIC Ranks High in Teacher Education
SPRINGFIELD — American International College has been ranked sixth among colleges in Massachusetts for providing teacher education. The rankings were published recently by the College Database, a not-for-profit organization that provides free information about education options both nationally and locally to students, parents, and other interested parties. According to the College Database list, with nearly 500 education graduates last year, AIC ranked higher in teacher education than any other Western Mass. college. “The ranking acknowledges our hard work and commitment to preparing highly effective classroom teachers, reading specialists, and school leaders,” said Esta Sobey, associate dean of Education at the college. AIC offers education programs in several areas, including early childhood, elementary, moderate disabilities, and 10 subjects on the middle/secondary level, leading to initial teacher licensure in those areas. There is also a new five-year program leading to a bachelor’s degree in an arts and science area with a minor in education after four years, and a master of Education degree with licensure after the fifth year. Sobey said the college’s education programs have expanded in recent years, not only on the AIC campus, but across the state. “We have grown to 12 sites across the Commonwealth, and in 2012-13, AIC prepared and endorsed 498 candidates for various initial and professional licenses,” she said. AIC Provost Dr. Todd Fritch said the ranking is further proof of the college’s commitment to education. “Our education programs strengthen the mission of the college by expanding opportunities for students to transform their lives and achieve personal and professional fulfillment through rewarding careers as education professionals,” he noted. “The programs offer students a mix of scholarship and practicality, as most of our professors are employed in the field, allowing them to offer a balance between theory and real-world application.” AIC external campus program sites include Buzzards Bay, East Bridgewater, Fall River/New Bedford, Greenfield, Lawrence, Marlborough, Medford, Pittsfield, Wakefield, Weymouth, and Worcester.

Senior Housing Project at Ludlow Mills Wins $300,000 Tax Credit
LUDLOW — The Westmass Area Development Corp. (Westmass) announced recently that the senior independent living project at Ludlow Mills has received an important state historic tax credit award of $300,000 from Massachusetts Secretary of State William Galvin. The award was critical to the project, allowing developer WinnDevelopment to move forward with financing its senior-living project at the mills. The senior-housing project will preserve historic mill building 10, in which 80 units of senior housing will be developed. The estimated total project cost is $24.5 million. Pending complete financing, Westmass is expected to convey Mill10 and the surrounding three acres to WinnDevelopment during the fourth quarter of 2014. Occupancy is expected to start about a year from now.

Agenda

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Agenda Departments

Nonprofit Marketing Roundtable
Jan. 28: Struggling to gain visibility with your target audience? Are your marketing materials producing tangible results? Are your best messaging ideas living only in your head? The Nonprofit Marketing Roundtable 2014 Workshop will be held from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Three women business owners — Janice Beetle, Ruth Griggs, and Maureen Scanlon of the Creative, a marketing and communications collaboration in Northampton — will lead a nonprofit Flash marketing workshop. They will meet with business owners, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business; reach the media; and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. The workshop, presented by the Creative Marketing Group, is free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Jasmin Tomic at (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].

Difference Makers 2014
March 20: 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 editors and publishers of BusinessWest are currently reviewing nominations for the class of 2014. The winners will be announced in the magazine’s Feb. 10 issue. For more information, call (413) 781-8600.

Editorial

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Opinion

Some Things We’d Like to See in 2014

It’s time to say goodbye to 2013.
It was an interesting year in many respects — especially with regard to the casino-gambling picture, which changed in ways that probably couldn’t have been imagined just one year ago when there were four projects still in the running for the Western Mass. license — but one that was not very remarkable from a business standpoint.
Indeed, with the exception of a soaring stock market, which had climbed nearly 25% for the year at press time, this was a year of relative stagnancy, in terms of everything from employment to the overall economy, although there were signs of life toward the end of the year (more on that in a bit).
So, without further ado, it’s time to look ahead and identify some of the things we’d like to see happen in 2014. If all or even most of them come to fruition, it could be quite a year.
• Game On. Let’s start with the casino. As the voters in West Springfield, Palmer, East Boston, and other communities voted thumbs down to casino plans for their communities — dramatically changing and diminishing the competition for coveted licenses as they did so — many began to question whether this state really wants or needs such facilities.
Pollsters would tell you that the numbers show that the majority of state residents still support casinos, but don’t want one in their community. Springfield, in fact, was one of the few communities that said yes, and we hope that cranes start to appear in the city’s South End by the end of next year and that MGM Springfield becomes reality a few years later.
As we’ve said many times, a casino will not, by itself, change the city’s fortunes. But it can become part of the process of bringing new vitality, new jobs, and a new attitude about Springfield. Let’s hope it happens.
• It’s About Time. For close to half a decade now, people have been saying, “this could be the year the economy finally breaks out of its funk.” Well, people are saying it again, and this time, there’s more reason to believe them. Indeed, there are some actual signs — falling unemployment and a rise in state GDP among them — that indicate better times ahead.
We hope those reading these tea leaves are on the money — literally and figuratively — because there hasn’t been much of a recovery in this region, and businesses that have fought through this time deserve some sustained momentum and a year when the books become truly good reading.
• Class Act. Several months ago, the talk about whether UMass would create a downtown Springfield ‘satellite facility’ (the school eschews the word ‘campus’) officially shifted to when it would. School officials announced that UMass Springfield would soon start to take shape on the second floor of Tower Square. As the new year begins, we hope that this news alone starts to create momentum in a downtown that sorely needs a spark, and that, as 2014 unfolds, the construction work and then the facility itself will become a catalyst for more retail development and other forms of progress in the city’s central business district.
• Getting Things Started. Lastly, we hope to see work in 2014 in the broad realm of promoting entrepreneurship and getting new ventures off the ground or to that proverbial next level. There are several programs in place that are addressing this challenge — from Valley Venture Mentors to the Grinspoon Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Initiative to the Business Growth Center at the Technology Park at STCC (see story on age 45)— and this work needs to continue and expand in 2014 and the years to follow.
As we’ve said on many occasions, while it is still possible that a major employer will decide to make Western Mass. home and thus create hundreds or perhaps thousands of new jobs, the more likely scenario is that growth in this region will come organically, through new startups that mature and eventually add to their payrolls.
There are many challenges facing this region, but perhaps the biggest is creating more fuel for the economy. Programs that encourage entrepreneurship and help young businesses grow are a vital part of that equation.

People On the Move

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Departments People on the Move

Scott Pasquale

Berkshire Bank recently announced that Scott Pasquale has assumed the new role of Vice President and Commercial Relationship Manager. In this position, Pasquale will be responsible for the Pioneer Valley and will be based out of the East Columbus Avenue location in Springfield. Pasquale will manage commercial relationships in Western Mass., providing a high level of expertise in commercial lending. Hewill also provide a dedicated relationship between commercial customers and Berkshire Bank’s other lines of business and financial services. Prior to coming to Berkshire, Pasquale worked for TD Bank in commercial lending and has more than 25 years of experience in the financial-services industry. Pasquale has worked for financial institutions in the Pioneer Valley and Connecticut, including UPS Capital and Glastonbury Bank & Trust Co. He attended the College of Wooster and earned a BA in Economics. Pasquale is on the board of the Western Mass. chapter of the National Tooling & Machining Assoc., which he serves as Treasurer. He also is an active participant in fund-raising for the Boy Scouts of America.
•••••

Katherine Coolidge

Katherine Coolidge, a Law Librarian at Bulkley, Richardson and Gelinas, LLP, was recently chosen by the American Assoc. of Law Libraries as its new Executive Board Secretary. Coolidge has a JD from the Western New England University School of Law.
•••••

Kyle Sullivan

Kyle Sullivan, a Commercial Lines Coverage Specialist with the John M. Glover Insurance Agency, has been named the Western Mass. Regional Member of the Year Award recipient for BNI, an international business-networking group. The award recognizes a member who is actively involved in running the chapter and has gone beyond expectations to help other members achieve new levels of success through BNI. Sullivan, a member of the BNI Mill River Chapter in Northampton since March 2011, is currently vice president of that chapter. Sullivan has worked for the Glover agency for five years and is a third-generation insurance agent. He works with businesses to educate them about the types of risks associated with their business, helping them reduce the chances of a loss through policies. Last year, he was voted ‘most valuable participant’ by class members at the Hartford School of Insurance when he was designated the commercial lines coverage specialist. Sullivan is also part of the Leadership Pioneer Valley class of 2014, a program that trains emerging leaders from the community, including nonprofits, business, and government, through a nine-month leadership-development program, and is a new board member of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts.
•••••
Jules Gaudreau, President of the Gaudreau Group Insurance and Financial Services Agency in Wilbraham, was recently elected Secretary of the National Assoc. of Insurance and Financial Advisors (NAIFA) and will assume the office in September 2015, serving a one-year term. NAIFA, an association that serves and represents insurance and financial advisors, has a mission to advocate for a positive legislative and regulatory environment, enhance business and professional skills, and promote the ethical conduct of its members. Gaudreau is a Chartered Financial Consultant, a Certified Insurance Counselor, and a Licensed Insurance Advisor, and works primarily in the corporate market with a focus on employee benefits, estate, and business applications of life insurance and commercial property/casualty lines. Gaudreau is also a Million Dollar Round Table member and Top of the Table qualifier. A frequent speaker, Gaudreau is a past president of both the state and local affiliates of NAIFA and, on numerous occasions, has provided both written and oral testimony to the Massachusetts Legislature and other regulatory authorities. He has been a director of the Mass. Assoc. of Insurance Agents and was president of Independent Insurance Agents of Hampden County, as well as the Estate Planning Council of Hampden County.
•••••

Shirley Simolari

Keller Williams Realty of the Pioneer Valley recently added Shirley Simolari to its team. Simolari — an integral part of the startup of the newest bank in Springfield, NUVO Bank and Trust Co., where she served as Senior Vice President and Director of Creative Solutions — has an extensive knowledge of the banking industry and is licensed in both Massachusetts and Connecticut.
•••••

Michael Buckmaster

Springfield-based NUVO Bank & Trust Co. announced that Michael Buckmaster, Vice President of Commercial Lending, has been appointed President of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Hampden County board of directors. Buckmaster previously held the role of president from 2007 to 2009 and will serve another two-year term. Additionally, he is on the board of directors of the Hartsprings Foundation, which is responsible for the collection of donated clothes and personal items that benefit the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Hampden County. Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Hampden County has been in operation since 1967 and is a nonprofit, nationally affiliated agency that matches children and youth to caring adult volunteers in consistent one-to-one mentoring relationships.
•••••
Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) Senior Planner Jayne Bernhard-Armington received the 2013 Young Planner Award, which recognizes a junior or mid-level young practicing planner who has excelled in leadership, increased the impact of planning in public and private decision-making, or enhanced the American Planning Assoc. Massachusetts chapter (APA-MA). Bernhard-Armington, who specializes in housing and land-use planning, has been with the PVPC since 2008. In addition, the PVPC was selected to receive a Comprehensive Planning Award by the APA-MA. The awards were recently presented at the 2013 APA-MA/Massachusetts Assoc. of Planning Directors Annual Awards in Cambridge. The Pioneer Valley Regional Housing Plan was recognized in the Comprehensive Planning Award’s Regional category. This award was created to honor a plan, program, or process of unusually high merit.
•••••

Jean Wyld

Jean Wyld, Vice President for Academic Affairs at Springfield College, was recently presented with the Jacob Ludes III Leadership Award during the New England Assoc. of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) annual conference. The award is named after long-time leader and supporter of the NEASC Jacob Ludes III, and recognizes volunteers within NEASC who demonstrate leadership qualities that further the goals and objectives of the association. Wyld was recognized for her committed work as chair of NEASC’s Commission on Institutions of Higher Education (CIHE). As chair of the CIHE, Wyld provides leadership for the commission in its work of developing and applying the standards for accreditation that govern the nearly 300 public and private colleges and universities in New England and abroad accredited by NEASC. She also joined the NEASC board of trustees to represent the needs of higher education in the New England region and to external groups. Wyld has served as Vice President for Academic Affairs at Springfield College since 2001. Prior to this role, she served as the Chief Academic Officer and Dean of Academic Affairs at York College of Pennsylvania, and as Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs at Colby-Sawyer College in New Hampshire. While at Colby-Sawyer, she was selected as an American Council of Education fellow, and served her fellowship year at Boston College.

Editorial 2

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Opinion

A Stern Challenge for the Region

If it seems like you’re spending more of your time reading about people retiring or going to functions where the guest of honor leaves the room with a rocking chair, gold watch, or gift certificate for a cruise, it is most definitely not your imagination.
Instead, it’s more evidence of a demographic phenomenon, one that reflects the size and influence of the Baby Boom generation.
Indeed, all that talk years ago about how this generation was going to start retiring — and in big numbers — is no longer talk. It’s reality.
And while this inevitable consequence of the passage of time is good for the people who handle IRAs, make watches and rocking chairs, host retirement parties, and operate cruise lines, it poses a huge challenge for this region as a whole and specific business sectors as well.
In just the past 12 to 18 months, this region has seen the retirement of several chamber of commerce directors, nonprofit managers (Gary McCarthy at the Springfield Boys & Girls Club is just one example), economic-development leaders (Bill Ward at the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County tops that list), and healthcare executives — Carol Katz, longtime director of Loomis Communities, retired in 2012, Holyoke Medical Center CEO Hank Porten stepped down earlier this year, and Mark Tolosky, president and CEO of Baystate Health; Peter Straley, president and CEO of Health New England; and Craig Melin, president and CEO of Cooley Dickinson Hospital, will leave their jobs in 2014.
And there have been countless people whose exploits didn’t make the pages of BusinessWest who have also moved on to that proverbial next stage of their lives, with tens of thousands more to do so in the next several years.
The challenge is obvious: these people must be replaced.
And while it would seem that this wouldn’t be a problem with a statewide unemployment rate of roughly 7% and a number closer to 10% in major urban areas in this region, the reality is that many of those who are unemployed simply do not have the skills to move into these positions.
This is especially true in sectors such as precision manufacturing and healthcare, where employers have openings — hundreds and perhaps thousands of them — that they cannot fill because of that skills gap that we keep reading about. Like those aforementioned retirements, that gap is real, not your imagination.
And while there will always be people who can step into the shoes of leaders like Ward, Lee, Tolosky, Melin, and Straley, it is fair to ask if those who will occupy their offices and those of executives across the region possess the leadership skills that enabled their successors to be so successful.
So, moving forward, this region has to continue its efforts to address this demographic challenge — which is no longer looming, but actually here — and accelerate and intensify them.
Programs like Leadership Pioneer Valley, created at the encouragement of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission with all these retirements in mind, must continue to educate area young people about this region and its strengths, weaknesses, and challenges, and prepare them to be the leaders of tomorrow.
Meanwhile, people like David Cruise, who will have the unenviable task of succeeding Ward at the REB, must work in collaboration with local employers, area colleges and universities, and other economic-development agencies to close that skills gap. If they don’t, employers will be increasingly challenged to find that most important ingredient in any business success story: talent.
In reality, it is mostly the very oldest of the Baby Boomers (and those who belong to the generation before it) who are retiring these days. The huge bubble is still to come, and it may be delayed somewhat by the need for many members of this generation to work longer to secure a comfortable retirement.
But while there is still time to address this challenge, that time is running out.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

Chamber Corners Departments

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Jan. 8: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Ludlow Country Club, 1 Tony Lema Drive, Ludlow. The program will be “Success of Small Business,” a moderated panel discussion. For more information, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].
• Jan. 15: ACCGS After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Melha Shrine Center, 133 Longhill St., Springfield. Come clown around with us! Cost: $5. For more information, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Jan. 23: Big Raffle Drawing, 6 p.m. Only 300 tickets are for sale each year. Grand prize: $5,000; second prize: $500; third prize, $200; fourth prize: $100, fifth prize: $50. The drawing takes place at the annual dinner meeting, Jan. 23, and you do not need to be present to win. For more information or to enter, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Jan. 28: Nonprofit Marketing Roundtable 2014 Workshop, 8-9:30 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by the Creative Marketing Group. Struggling to gain visibility with your target audience? Are your marketing materials producing tangible results? Are your best messaging ideas living only in your head? The chamber has help on the way. Three women business owners — Janice Beetle, Ruth Griggs, and Maureen Scanlon of the Creative, a marketing and communications collaboration in Northampton — will lead a nonprofit Flash marketing workshop. They will meet with business owners, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business; reach the media; and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Jasmin Tomic at (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• Jan. 15: PWC Tabletop Business Expo/Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, West Springfield. Showcase your product or service. For more information about the Professional Women’s Chamber, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Jan. 8: January After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Westwood Restaurant & Pub, 94 North Elm St., Westfield. Sponsored by Northpoint Mortgage. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members, cash at the door. Haven’t been to an After 5? Your first one is free. For more information or to register, contact Pam at (413) 568-1618.
• Jan. 13: Health Care Symposium (time to be announced), at the Dever Stage, Parenzo Hall, Westfield State University. Presenter: Lynn Nichols, president of the Mass. Hospital Assoc. Sponsored by Noble Hospital. For more information or to register, contact Pam at (413) 568-1618.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880

• TBA: January Coffee with Mayor Cohen. Date and location to be announced. Keep checking website for updates, or e-mail [email protected].
• Feb. 5: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., at Crestview Country Club, Agawam. 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. Cost: free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. (Event is open to the public; attendees must pay at the door if they’re non-members.) For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].
• Feb. 26: West of the River Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at the Storrowton Tavern Carriage House, West Springfield. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.springfieldyps.com

• Jan. 16: January Third Thursday YPS Open House, 5-7 p.m., at the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Don’t miss this upcoming Third Thursday and the unique opportunity to become more involved with the YPS. Complementary parking in the Tower Square garage with elevator access directly to the venue. YPS is a guest of the Colony Club for this event. We ask that you please respect and follow their business-casual dress code; jeans will not be permitted. There will be a cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. Invite your friends and bring plenty of business cards. Cost: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members, including food and a cash bar.

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

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
Arnold’s & Eddies Food Inc. v. West Street Bar & Grill Inc. d/b/a Maximum Capacity
Allegation: Breach of contract and monies owed: $7,054
Filed: 12/4/13

Gwendolyn A. Corden v. Family Dollar Store
Allegation: Negligent property maintenance causing injury: $3,640
Filed: 11/15/13

Ondrick Natural Earth, LLC v. Connecticut Valley Landscaping Inc. and Steve E. Bercume
Allegation: Breach of contract and monies owed: $5,516.49
Filed: 11/18/13

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
American Express v. Brent J. Bertelli and Bertelli Holdings
Allegation: Breach of contract: $39,000
Filed: 11/26/13

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Blake Group Holdings Inc. d/b/a Blake Equipment v. Richard A. Baker d/b/a Geosun Design
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $41,497.13
Filed: 12/10/13

NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
Donald F. Kelloway Jr. v. Core Security Technologies
Allegation: Suit on previous judgment: $3,337.24
Filed: 10/17/13

John P. O’Rourke v. The Hampshire Council of Governments
Allegation: Failure to pay wages: $3,859.24
Filed: 11/5/13

Sesac Inc. v. Cutting Edge Broadcasting Inc. d/b/a WEIB-FM 106.3
Allegation: Breach of performance license agreement: $16,867.64
Filed: 10/7/13

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Board of Trustees Wentworth Condominium Trust v. J.W.O. Realty Inc. and Tallage, IMR
Allegation: Unpaid condominium common-area charges: $4,669.50
Filed: 12/2/13

East Baking Co. Inc. v. Papa’s Bread & Snack Co.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $33,880.50
Filed: 12/4/13

Goodless Electric Co. Inc. v. Target Restoration Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment for electrical goods and services rendered: $8,852.90
Filed: 11/22/13

Jaya Lodgings, LLC d/b/a Candlewood Suites v. Energy Smart Resources Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract, misrepresentation, and monies owed: $57,600
Filed: 12/2/13

Skyworks, LLC v. Optimum Building and Inspection Services Inc.
Allegation: Balance remaining for rental equipment provided: $4,928.50
Filed: 11/20/13

PictureThis

By BusinessWest Staff December 31, 2013

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]

Gingerbread and Business Cards
The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) celebrated the holiday season amid the “Magic of Gingerbread” exhibit, which runs until Dec. 31 at the Springfield Museum of Science, for its monthly YPS Third Thursday networking event. Members and friends traded business cards surrounded by decorated holiday trees and dozens of fanciful gingerbread houses created by local bakeries, schools, youth groups, individuals, and families for the annual Gingerbread House Competition. Left to right from top: from left, Sean Wandrei, lecturer at UMass Amherst, Jeremy Leap, vice president of Commercial Lending at Country Bank, and Jeremy Hollins, operations and asset manager for Environmental Integrity; from left, Ryan McCollum, owner, RMC Strategies, Ed Nunez, assistant vice president, Business Development, Freedom Credit Union, and Jean Canosa Albano, manager of Public Services for the Springfield City Library; Mariga Ward, coordinator of ticket operations, and Eric Levine, coordinator of Business Development for Springfield Falcons Hockey; Ashley Clark, left, commercial service officer, Westfield Bank, and Kaitlin Casey, occupational therapist, Hartford Healthcare.

Party in PJs
Santa Claus and Adam Quenneville, owner of Quenneville Roofing, Siding & Windows (seen here just left of Santa), both recently participated in this year’s Christmas pajama party at Square One’s King Street Children’s Center. Claus, Quenneville, and teacher Kristine Gorman (second from right) distributed 200 new toys and games, ensuring a happy holiday for each child.

Weighing In
The Springfield College Center for Wellness Education and Research (CWER) recently hosted a guest appearance by Tom Naughton, writer and director of Fat Head, the popular comedy-documentary about diet and health. The lecture, titled “Diet, Health, and the Wisdom of Crowds,” explored the growing notion that social networking is a key factor in healthcare, particularly with respect to lifestyle-related issues. Naughton, also an editor and writer for Family Safety and Health magazine, contributing writer for the Encyclopedia Britannica Health and Medical Annual, and a freelance humor writer for essays published in Newsweek and Omni, takes complex information about diet and nutrition and makes it both amusing and understandable to his audience. From left, Sara Gregory, assistant director, and Richard Wood, director, both of CWER, and Naughton.

Holiday Party
Nearly 100 area children attended the annual Children’s Holiday party on Dec. 14, hosted by WTCC 90.7 FM, the community radio station of Springfield Technical Community College. DJ Phillip Anthony Borras again volunteered as Santa Claus. Donations for the party, for toys and food, came from WTCC station members and area businesses. Barnes & Noble donated 100 books for the children.
(Photo by Christopher Winslow)

Real Estate Transactions

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

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

ASHFIELD

81 Baptist Corner Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Hoff FT
Seller: Scott G. Lesure
Date: 11/08/13

50 Whitney Acres
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Scott G. Lesure
Seller: Whitney, Walter A. Jr., (Estate)
Date: 11/08/13

BERNARDSTON

78 Church St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Celt C. Grant
Seller: Jacques A. Lamuniere
Date: 11/08/13

51 West Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Keir IRT
Seller: Elizabeth L. Thurston
Date: 11/07/13

COLRAIN

340 Wilson Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jill Horton-Lyons
Seller: Priscilla A. Merritt
Date: 11/08/13

GILL

33 Atherton Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Raymond E. Purington
Seller: Scott R. Miller
Date: 11/06/13

GREENFIELD

33 Birch St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Susan K. Farber
Seller: Janet E. Robert
Date: 11/08/13

37 Congress St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: MBM Congress Street LLC
Seller: Paul E. Conway
Date: 11/06/13

77 Congress St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: MBM Congress Street LLC
Seller: Paul E. Conway
Date: 11/06/13

102 Thayer Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: David M. Hyde
Seller: Andre I. Melcuk
Date: 11/06/13

MONTAGUE

166 Avenue A
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Stage 2 Enterprises Inc.
Seller: Dot & Dip LLC
Date: 11/07/13

40 Main St.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Eric J. Wapner
Seller: Donald R. Loveland
Date: 11/04/13

NORTHFIELD

34 East St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Christina A. Pike
Seller: Marian A. Holbrook RET
Date: 11/07/13

302 Warwick Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $182,000
Buyer: Jonathan T. Heydenreich
Seller: Corinne Burnham
Date: 11/08/13

SHUTESBURY

24 Lake Dr.
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Kent A. Whitney
Seller: David Mitchell
Date: 11/07/13

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

533 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Mikhail Ashlaban
Seller: Mercadante, Gaetano L., (Estate)
Date: 11/07/13

188 South Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Ilya Shamir
Seller: Christopher Petropoulos
Date: 11/08/13

24 Zacks Way
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $389,300
Buyer: George F. Hagan
Seller: T. Russo Construction Corp.
Date: 11/08/13

CHICOPEE

24 Beesley Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $154,000
Buyer: Meghan K. Sullivan
Seller: Robert Nowicki
Date: 11/06/13

461 East St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Vincent Moreira
Seller: Robert E. Dupuis
Date: 11/08/13

EAST LONGMEADOW

45 Deer Park Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: GB Real Estate LLC
Seller: Raymond C. Legary
Date: 11/07/13

41 Evergreen Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Corey R. Lucier
Seller: John C. Tranghese
Date: 11/04/13

42 Gates Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $138,087
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jason G. Peskurich
Date: 11/04/13

Industrial Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: East Longmeadow Self Storage
Seller: Rugby Properties LLC
Date: 11/05/13

17 Maynard St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Ming Chen
Seller: Richard M. Quackenbush
Date: 11/04/13

25 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Bruce B. Bouchard
Seller: Bernadette Haskins
Date: 11/08/13

162 Pease Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $407,000
Buyer: Gary S. Allen
Seller: Favorita Realty LLC
Date: 11/08/13

178 Vineland Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $175,510
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Barbara L. Punis
Date: 11/08/13

HOLYOKE

23 Gary Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Peter J. Higgins
Seller: Helen T. Shea
Date: 11/07/13

67 Lynch Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Martin J. Bryant
Seller: Patrick T. McKenna
Date: 11/08/13

24 Thomas Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $173,697
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Amanda K. Ezold
Date: 11/07/13

21 Vadnais St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $277,000
Buyer: Patrick McKenna
Seller: Mary A. McDonough
Date: 11/08/13

LONGMEADOW

53 Bel Air Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: James J. Fitzgerald
Seller: Mary Kelleher
Date: 11/08/13

93 Green Willow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Marc J. Zerbe
Seller: Glazier, Ruth E., (Estate)

158 Wenonah Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $296,000
Buyer: Stewart E. Creelman
Seller: Barbara H. Armstrong
Date: 11/04/13

41 Woolworth St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Miranda
Seller: Joseph E. Pelletier
Date: 11/04/13

LUDLOW

209 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Cheryl A. Misterka
Seller: Susan M. Moffett
Date: 11/07/13

Rosewood Dr. #2
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $118,000
Buyer: George D. Rosa
Seller: Rosewood Meadows Inc.
Date: 11/05/13

385 West St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Jessica Bashaw
Seller: RRR Homes LLC
Date: 11/06/13

128 Williams St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Sally A. Zielinski
Seller: Maria Carvalho
Date: 11/05/13

MONSON

147 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Rahkonen IRT
Seller: John N Rahkonen
Date: 11/06/13

Macomber Road #MULTI
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $1,881,000
Buyer: Sune Monson 1 LLC
Seller: John M. Arooth
Date: 11/04/13

73 Woodhill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $273,000
Buyer: Katherine Silver
Seller: Costello, John D. Sr., (Estate)
Date: 11/08/13

PALMER

3013 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: David R. O’Keefe
Seller: John Sullivan
Date: 11/08/13

SPRINGFIELD

48 Bevier St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $146,714
Buyer: Timothy V. Flouton
Seller: Stanley S. Wiater
Date: 11/08/13

343 Evergreen Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $127,000
Buyer: Thomas Belliveau
Seller: Noreen P. Collett
Date: 11/04/13

5 Fayette St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Jean E. Frazier
Seller: Thomas P. Libiszewski
Date: 11/07/13

100 Garvey Dr.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Anibal C. Rivera
Seller: Charles R. Calabrese
Date: 11/05/13

72 Melville St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $129,500
Buyer: Maria D. Ramos
Seller: Richard Harty
Date: 11/08/13

86 Paulk Ter.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $206,369
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Celia E. Lacroix
Date: 11/08/13

1570 Plumtree Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $150,360
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Esther Fletcher-Cruz
Date: 11/08/13

204 Roosevelt Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $145,400
Buyer: Laurie J. Thomas
Seller: Gilmore, Diana M., (Estate)
Date: 11/08/13

85 Shady Brook Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $122,000
Buyer: Justin D. Roberts
Seller: Clifford W. Zimmer
Date: 11/05/13

254 Shawmut St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $125,500
Buyer: Daniel C. Hankins
Seller: Lakeisha Norris
Date: 11/05/13

95 Upton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $167,505
Buyer: Citimortgage Inc.
Seller: Elizabeth A. Focosi
Date: 11/05/13

SOUTHWICK

111 Feeding Hills Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $168,500
Buyer: Michael Abelin
Seller: Joseph T. Legein
Date: 11/07/13

13 Hunters Ridge Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Eric A. Ellison
Seller: Cheryl C. Clapprood
Date: 11/07/13

7 Tammy Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $213,000
Buyer: William J. Chapman
Seller: Keith J. Mead
Date: 11/07/13

WALES

37 Shore Dr.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Meldrim
Seller: Walter Wallace
Date: 11/05/13

WESTFIELD

11 Carole Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Ryan A. Schnopp
Seller: Margaret P. Schnopp
Date: 11/08/13

31 Crown St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: William Foxe
Seller: Dawn Blanchette-Labarre
Date: 11/04/13

273 Paper Mill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Benjamin L. Quackenbush
Seller: Donald S. Bozek
Date: 11/07/13

480 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Rui M. Baltazar
Seller: Kelemen, Renate H., (Estate)
Date: 11/07/13

422 Southwick Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Matthew E. Fontanilles
Seller: Richard J. Armstrong
Date: 11/08/13

99 Springfield Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Buyer: N&J LLC
Seller: Balise Automotive Realty LP
Date: 11/08/13

48 Yankee Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $245,807
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Katherine A. Godbout
Date: 11/07/13

WILBRAHAM

14 Oldwood Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: Kyle B. Laflamme
Seller: Dominic D. Maloni
Date: 11/08/13

21 Shady Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Toyoko Yoshida
Seller: Rebecca Zorin
Date: 11/05/13

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

211 Grantwood Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Dmitri Robbins
Seller: Ephraim Robbins
Date: 11/04/13

263 Grantwood Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $210,070
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Esworth M. James
Date: 11/06/13

BELCHERTOWN

9 Dogwood Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $364,900
Buyer: Christopher S. Sweeney
Seller: J. N Duquette & Son Construction
Date: 11/04/13

50 North Liberty St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jonathan M. Pitoniak
Seller: Moore Contractors Inc.
Date: 11/07/13

EASTHAMPTON

311 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $226,000
Buyer: Joan M. Cinner
Seller: Thomas Kierzek
Date: 11/05/13

Hendrick St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: David M. Lepine
Seller: E.T. & S.A. Zachazewski IRT
Date: 11/08/13

211 Park St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Anna Paskausky
Seller: Peter Vogel
Date: 11/07/13

36 Treehouse Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Robert K. Eckert
Seller: EH Homeownership LLC
Date: 11/05/13

GRANBY

33 Pleasant St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $207,500
Buyer: James D. Damours
Seller: Stephen F. Marion
Date: 11/04/13

HADLEY

379 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Hadley Mall Outparcel LLC
Seller: ZEE Realty LLC
Date: 11/08/13

HUNTINGTON

4 Rockybrook Dr.
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Brian A. Wagner
Seller: Sharon A. Lamoureux
Date: 11/08/13

MIDDLEFIELD

25 Reservoir Road
Middlefield, MA 01243
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Mary D. Doyle
Date: 11/06/13

NORTHAMPTON

392 Bridge St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Ronald T. Blechner
Seller: Ann M. Hall
Date: 11/08/13

198 Nonotuck St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $214,000
Buyer: Louise M. Martindell
Seller: Jesse C. Montgomery
Date: 11/04/13

239 Ryan Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Shonna M. Hatoum
Seller: James A. North
Date: 11/08/13

298 Ryan Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Irven A. Gammon
Seller: Theodore J. Farrie
Date: 11/04/13

721 Westhampton Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $173,726
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Tara M. Dennis
Date: 11/06/13

PELHAM

14 King St.
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Tristan D. Boscardin
Seller: Donald A. Weaver
Date: 11/08/13

SOUTH HADLEY

3 Edison Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $220,080
Buyer: Mark S. Kendall
Seller: Stanley M. Jordan
Date: 11/06/13

37 Haig Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: ZCG Properties LLC
Seller: Gerald E. Price
Date: 11/06/13

660 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Jorge B. Gomez
Seller: Philip J. Sheridan
Date: 11/08/13
23 Park Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $329,000
Buyer: Lisa M. Dame
Seller: Sean M. Dean
Date: 11/06/13

34 Woodbridge Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $267,500
Buyer: Joseph E. Lynch
Seller: First Cong Church
Date: 11/08/13

SOUTHAMPTON

195 Brickyard Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Patrick J. Cadigan
Seller: Thomas M. Bacis
Date: 11/08/13

96 Valley Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: William T. Labrie
Seller: John & Alice Slabinski LT
Date: 11/08/13

WARE

20 Beaver Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $186,000
Buyer: Melissa A. Whitham
Seller: Tomothy C. Norwood
Date: 11/06/13

9 Skyview Dr.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $174,900
Buyer: Jane E. Quimby
Seller: Lori A. Cebula
Date: 11/04/13

WESTHAMPTON

15 North Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $119,000
Buyer: Mathew W. Clement
Seller: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Date: 11/06/13

Building Permits

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of December 2013.

CHICOPEE

D & D Chicopee Realty
49 Highland Ave.
$10,500 — Remodel second floor

Default Service Inc.
46 McKinstry Ave.
$8,000 — Strip and re-roof

Pioneer Valley Condo Association
63 Colonial Circle
$25,000 — New roof

Primo Electric
711 East Main St.
$25,000 — Create office space
PALMER

Development Associates
21 Third St.
$10,000 — Foundation only for addition to manufacturing plant

SOUTH HADLEY

Cumberland Farms
507 Newton St.
$2,000 — Exterior renovations

SPRINGFIELD

3640 Main St., LLC
3640 Main St.
$63,000 — Build out for new office

Baystate Medical
298 Carew St.
$274,000 — Fit out space for pharmacy

Pearson Development Co.
1322 Liberty St.
$35,000 — New roof

Performing Arts Center
1000 State St.
$93,000 — Interior renovations

Smith and Wesson
2100 Roosevelt Ave.
$318,000 — Create a new testing room

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Church of the Good Shepard
214 Elm St.
$15,000 — New roof

Clarion Hotel and Conference Center
1080 Riverdale St.
$5,000 — Interior renovations

Dominic and Christine Pompi
1272 Memorial Ave.
$55,000 — Strip and re-roof

Hayden Corporation
333 River St.
$10,000 — Extend access drive behind building and exterior renovations

Joe Stevens
1501 Elm St.
$68,000 — Interior repairs

PictureThis

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

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]

Night at the Museum

At a sold-out Holiday Gala 2013 on Dec. 5, attendees enjoyed cocktails at the Michele and Donald D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts before strolling across the Quadrangle for an elegant dinner in the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. The annual event, which benefits the Springfield Museums, featured live jazz by Berkshire Jazz Underground and vocalists from Springfield College. Top right: from left, Brian Lees, former Hampden County Clerk of Courts; Heriberto Flores, executive director, New England Farmworkers Council; Mary-Beth Cooper, president of Springfield College; Tim Allen, United Way of Pioneer Valley and Springfield city councilor; and Vanessa Otero, director of the North End Campus Coalition. Bottom left: from left, Stuart Prall; Holly Smith-Bové, Springfield Museums president; Carol Leary, president of Bay Path College; and her husband, Noel Leary.
Photos by Ed Cohen

Going Out in Style

More than 175 friends, colleagues, and area business owners and managers turned out at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee on Dec. 9 to honor Gail Sherman, who recently announced that she will be retiring after 17 years as director of the Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce. At left: Sherman with Ron Proulx, business director of Dave’s Truck Repair in Springfield and chairman of the chamber’s board of directors. Right, Sherman shares a moment with Joe Peters, former chairman of the chamber’s board and CEO of Universal Plastics, and Doris Ransford, longtime director of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, who partnered with Sherman on a number of initiatives and retired herself in 2012.

Into the Next Phase

The Regional Employment Board (REB) of Hampden County staged a retirement party for long-time executive director Bill Ward on Dec. 10 at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House in Holyoke. More than 300 friends and associates, including local, state, and national political leaders, honored Ward — who was one of the first winners of BusinessWest’s Difference Makers award — for his more than 30 years of tireless work to address and improve workforce issues. Left to right from top left: Ward poses with Michael Ashe, Hampden County Sheriff; Team Hoyt, son Rick and father Dick, with Ward, a one-time chairman of the board at Kamp for Kids, a camp for physically disabled and able-bodied children founded by the Hoyt family; Ward is flanked by son Christopher, customer service representative for Fedex, and daughter Michelle Ward, a writer and reporter for People magazine; REB staff members gather around Ward after the festivities.Photos by Michael Epaul

Bottom right photo by Ed Cohen

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

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
Baystate Elevator Co. v. CDM Properties, LLC
Allegation: Breach of written elevator maintenance agreement: $10,000
Filed: 10/25/13

Mary Lou Sanborn v. Lapinski Electric Inc. and Christopher Lapinski
Allegation: Breach of settlement agreement: $15,000
Filed: 11/7/13

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Emily Bauer v. ServiceNet Inc. and Micah Matthia
Allegation: Negligent operation of a vehicle causing injury: $24,999
Filed: 11/6/13

Yvette Ramirez v. Holyoke Mall Co., L.P.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing injury: $3,634.86
Filed: 10/17/13

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Jack Clemente v. Gary Martinelli and Martinelli Descenza PC
Allegation: Unfair and deceptive acts in representation as a personal attorney: $700,000
Filed: 10/25/13

Jose Feliciano v. Basketball League of Western MA, Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield, Holy Name Parish, and Springfield Heat Youth Basketball
Allegation: Negligent hiring, failure to provide adequate security, assault and battery by a coach: $8,440.32
Filed: 10/23/13

Pioneer Valley Hotels Inc. v. Set in Concrete Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract and negligence: $31,425
Filed: 11/5/13

William Wessig v. Edward Desarkis d/b/a Deluxe Limousine Service
Allegation: Defendant misclassified plaintiff as an independent contractor and failed to pay wages and overtime: $30,000
Filed: 11/8/13

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Amcor Inc. v. Hi-De Liners Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $96,491.28
Filed: 9/4/13

CNH Capital America, LLC v. Scott Hutkowski d/b/a Long Plain Farm
Allegation: Action for redelivery and repossession of certain goods and money damages as a result of default under the terms of a security agreement: $25,847.96
Filed: 9/13/13

HOLYOKE DISTRICT COURT
Inter-Ocean Investments d/b/a Fine Writing, LLC v. Jaishri J. Singh d/b/a ABC Gifts
Allegation: Unpaid credit-card charges: $2,115.79
Filed: 11/8/13

Juan C. Arevalo v. Philip B. Rayder, the Martin-Brower Co., LLC, CJ Transportation, LLC, and Reyes Holding Inc.
Allegation: Negligent operation of a motor vehicle: $13,173.49
Filed: 9/26/13

SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Liberty Mutual Insurance Co. v. DB Installation Inc.
Allegation: Balance due on workers’ compensation policy: $6,990.17
Filed: 9/25/13

The Travelers Indemnity Co. v. Thomas Engwer III d/b/a Thomas Engwer Trucking
Allegation: Breach of contract and monies owed: $10,821.00
Filed: 10/16/13

Editorial

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Opinion

Maybe 2014 Will Be the Year

The recession of the late ’80s and early ’90s was memorable for many reasons.
For starters, there was the swiftness with which it brought an end to the go-go ’80s and the real-estate boom that changed this region in so many ways. The building stopped, the for-sale signs went up (and stayed up), and the properties eventually went to foreclosure and back to the banks and their OREO (other real estate owned) portfolios to wait for a better day.
As for those banks, some of them disappeared from the landscape entirely, while others were absorbed by larger institutions, with their names lost to history. For those that survived, it was a difficult time of intense scrutiny and tighter regulation that made day-to-day life exponentially more difficult.
There was also the collapse of the minicomputer and the end of the so-called Massachusetts Miracle, and a prolonged residential real-estate slump.
But for most who were in business then, the recession will be remembered for the recovery — if one could call it that — that followed and how painfully slow and meager it was. The common refrains were, alternately, ‘when are things going to get better?’ and ‘are things ever going to get better?’
The current recovery hasn’t been quite that bad, although we would say it comes close. Things are certainly better than they were in 2008 and early 2009, and conditions have improved from just a few years ago — they just haven’t improved as much as business owners would like.
There are many reasons why, but it boils down to two things. First, there’s general uncertainty about what will come next, which is still causing hesitation on the part of many when it comes to expansion, new initiatives, and projects that can absorb space in the region’s many industrial parks. Second, there has been only marginal improvement in the employment picture, especially in many of the larger communities in this region, such as Springfield and Holyoke.
We all know from our history, especially as it pertains to the Great Depression, that when people are not employed, they are not spending money. When they are employed, well, they’re more inclined to spend, which helps companies grow, which prompts investments and expansion, which puts more people to work, which prompts more spending … you know the cycle, and you watched it happen in the mid-’80s and again in the late ’90s.
As 2013 draws to a close, it appears that we’re perhaps, and finally, on the cusp of recovery that might prompt people to bring out the word ‘real.’ The economists we spoke with (see story, page 15) were careful to hedge their bets and offer caveats, especially those related to the dysfunctional government in Washington and a still-shaky global economy.
But there are ample signs, including an improved housing market, a solid November jobs report, and modest payroll growth in the Bay State, to indicate that the economy is in fact getting healthier, and this trend will continue and likely accelerate in the year to come.
Let’s hope the projections are right. This recovery hasn’t been quite as bad as the one in the early ’90s, but it has been long, slow, and for the most part unremarkable.
The year ahead will likely see the start of construction of an $800 million casino in the South End of Springfield, creation of a UMass satellite facility in Springfield, real progress on Union Station, and other initiatives. It would be helpful if all that was accompanied by an economic expansion that touched all sectors.
There’s still a great deal of uncertainty and turmoil to deal with, but it looks like it’s time to change the music to something a little more upbeat.
Let’s hope so.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Chamber Corners Departments

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Dec. 18: ERC5 Holiday Party, 5-8 p.m., at Spoleto, 84 Center Square, East Longmeadow. For more information, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].
• Jan. 8: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Ludlow Country Club, 1 Tony Lema Drive, Ludlow. The program will be “Success of Small Business,” a moderated panel discussion. For more information, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].
• Jan. 15: ACCGS After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Melha Shrine Center, 133 Longhill St., Springfield. Come clown around with us! Cost: $5. For more information, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Dec. 18: December Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Cost: $20 for members, $26 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Dec. 17: Holiday Dinner Dance, 6 p.m., at the Delaney House, Holyoke. Menu: maple glazed turkey, roast loin of pork, tenderloin of beef carving station, sesame seared tuna, Asian vegetable medley, and more; seafood station; chef-attended pasta station; lavish greens, vegetables, and fruit-salad station; butler-style hors d’oeuvres; Viennese dessert table; cash martini and full-service bars. Dance the night away with D.J. Fred from B & B Entertainment. Cost: $50 per person inclusive. Purchase a table of eight for the price of seven. To order tickets, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 527-9414.
• Dec. 17: GRIST (Get Real Individual Support Today) Meeting, 9 a.m., at the chamber office, 33 Union St., Easthampton. Are you a business of one? Are you a small-business owner without your own marketing department? Do you ever wish you had someone to toss around some ideas with about growing your business? The GRIST group can help. It’s a new hamber member benefit, an ongoing small group for folks who want to meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. Like the saying ‘all is grist for the mill,’ we feel that any idea or word of advice that one business person can share with another is of potential value in helping each other’s business grow. This small group of 10 to 15 people is limited to chamber members and those interested in joining the chamber. We welcome interested guests to attend one meeting to see what the group is all about. GRIST meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 9 to 10 a.m. at the chamber office. RSVP by the Monday preceding each meeting to Fran Fahey at [email protected] or Derek Allard at [email protected]. Call Fahey at (413) 529-1189 or Allard at (413) 282-9957 to find out more.
• Jan. 23: Big Raffle Drawing, 6 p.m. Only 300 tickets are for sale each year. Grand prize: $5,000; second prize: $500; third prize, $200; fourth prize: $100, fifth prize: $50. The drawing takes place at the annual dinner meeting, Jan. 23, and you do not need to be present to win. For more information or to enter, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• Dec. 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at the Delaney House, One Country Club Road, Holyoke. Cost: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Dec. 17: 2013 December Incite Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m. Incite Information presenting speaker: Kathleen McCarthy, Smith College President. Series sponsor: United Personnel. Admission: $20 for members, $30 for non-members.
• Jan. 28: Nonprofit Marketing Roundtable 2014 Workshop, 8-9:30 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by the Creative Marketing Group. Struggling to gain visibility with your target audience? Are your marketing materials producing tangible results? Are your best messaging ideas living only in your head? The chamber has help on the way. Three women business owners — Janice Beetle, Ruth Griggs, and Maureen Scanlon of the Creative, a marketing and communications collaboration in Northampton — will lead a nonprofit Flash marketing workshop. They will meet with business owners, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business; reach the media; and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Jasmin Tomic at (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• Jan. 15: PWC Tabletop Business Expo/Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, West Springfield. Showcase your product or service. For more information about the Professional Women’s Chamber, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Jan. 8: January After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Westwood Restaurant & Pub, 94 North Elm St., Westfield. Sponsored by Northpoint Mortgage. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members, cash at the door. Haven’t been to an After 5? Your first one is free. For more information or to register, contact Pam at (413) 568-1618.
• Jan. 13: Health Care Symposium (time to be announced), at the Dever Stage, Parenzo Hall, Westfield State University. Presenter: Lynn Nichols, president of the Mass. Hospital Assoc. Sponsored by Noble Hospital. For more information or to register, contact Pam at (413) 568-1618.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880

• TBA: January Coffee with Mayor Cohen. Date and location to be announced. Keep checking website for updates, or e-mail [email protected].
• Feb. 5: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., at Crestview Country Club, Agawam. 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. Cost: free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. (Event is open to the public; attendees must pay at the door if they’re non-members.) For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].
• Feb. 26: West of the River Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at the Storrowton Tavern Carriage House, West Springfield. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.springfieldyps.com

• Dec. 19: Third Thursday, 5-7 p.m., at the Springfield Museum of Science, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. Join us as we take our monthly Third Thursday Holiday Party to the Springfield Museum of Science and its Magic of Gingerbread Exhibit. You will enter a realm of fanciful gingerbread houses created by local bakeries, schools, youth groups, individuals, and families as part of an annual competition. Contestants were inspired by favorite holiday stories, historic places, and their own imaginations to create these marvelous gingerbread displays. Come take a stroll through this magical world filled with gingerbread houses, decorated holiday trees, and scenes inspired by the classic holiday tale A Christmas Carol. Light hors d’oeuvres and cash bar will be provided by Elegant Affairs. Cost: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members.
• Jan. 16: January Third Thursday YPS Open House, 5-7 p.m., at the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Don’t miss this upcoming Third Thursday and the unique opportunity to become more involved with the YPS. Complementary parking in the Tower Square garage with elevator access directly to the venue. YPS is a guest of the Colony Club for this event. We ask that you please respect and follow their business-casual dress code; jeans will not be permitted. There will be a cash bar and hors d’oeuvres. Invite your friends and bring plenty of business cards. Cost: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members, including food and a cash bar.

Opinion

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Opinion

Deliberation Needed on Minimum Wage

In 2006, the state Legislature enacted a two-step increase in the minimum wage, raising it to $8 per hour by January 2008. At the time, that rate was the second-highest in the country, behind Washington state and tied with California. Just about each year since then, the issue of increasing the minimum wage comes up for debate on Beacon Hill, and this year was no different.
On the second-to-last day of the 2013 legislative session, the Senate passed a bill increasing the rate in three steps to $11 per hour while tying additional increases to inflation. The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) advocated that the Senate move its vote until the new year for several reasons, not the least of which was the timing of the vote so late in the session, giving amendments to the bill very little attention and time for debate, and the House virtually no chance to debate either the bill or its amendments until the new year.
The ACCGS expects the issue to come to a head early in the coming year. We suspect the rate will be increased, as the debate seems more focused on what the rate will be rather than if the rate will be higher and whether or not it will be tied to an inflation-linked index, and how this acknowledged increase in the cost of doing business will be offset by decreases in other business costs.
Even the term ‘minimum wage’ is being debated. There are some in the Legislature who would prefer the rate be increased even higher than the Senate’s suggested $11 per hour, noting that it would be a ‘living wage,’ and there are those who would like to see a more moderate and reasoned approach for a ‘starting wage.’
Whatever the term, a wage is a wage, and wages constitute one of a company’s largest operating costs. As such, the ACCGS believes more debate and deliberation is needed on this issue, and is calling for a very careful and detailed look at any request for an increase.
A recent survey of chamber members showed that more than 80% of the respondents already pay above the state and federal minimum wage, with more than half paying an hourly rate of $10 or more. More than 80% said an increase in the minimum wage was somewhat or very important to them, noting their very real concern that a large increase would cause upward pressure on all wages. Many of the businesses went so far as to acknowledge that other steps would need to be taken in their individual businesses to offset that pressure.
The ACCGS recognizes that more than 10 other states have increased their minimum wage rate this year, but believes that none have taken it to the levels the Massachusetts Senate did. We know there are studies as to the pros and cons of an increase and the impact it has on the economy and on jobs, and our own survey results show there will be an impact. With an unemployment rate in our region that is almost 50% higher than the state in general, actions that could inhibit job creation must be scrutinized.
As the House moves its debate forward, the chamber will advocate with representatives for moderation in any increase in the minimum wage, recognizing what negative impacts could occur, while at the same time, the chamber will call for a linked action to reductions in other costs of doing business, such as the unemployment-insurance tax. Like the minimum wage, where this state ranks among the highest in the U.S., the same holds true for the cost of unemployment insurance. The chamber firmly believes we should all work collectively and collaboratively at reducing the costs of owning and operating a business in the Commonwealth to enable job creation, reduce unemployment, and improve the overall economy of the region.

Jeffrey S. Ciuffreda is president of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield.

Agenda

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Agenda Departments

Nonprofit Marketing Roundtable
Jan. 28: Struggling to gain visibility with your target audience? Are your marketing materials producing tangible results? Are your best messaging ideas living only in your head? The Nonprofit Marketing Roundtable 2014 Workshop will be held from 8 to 9:30 a.m. at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Three women business owners — Janice Beetle, Ruth Griggs, and Maureen Scanlon of the Creative, a marketing and communications collaboration in Northampton — will lead a nonprofit Flash marketing workshop. They will meet with business owners, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business; reach the media; and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. The workshop, presented by the Creative Marketing Group, is free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Jasmin Tomic at (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].

Difference Makers 2014b
March 20: 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. See the story here for more information about the program and a list of past winners. The editors and publishers of BusinessWest are currently reviewing nominations for the class of 2014, and will accept nominations through Dec. 20. The winners will be announced in the magazine’s Feb. 10 issue. For more information, call (413) 781-8600.

People on the Move

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Departments People on the Move

A. Hazel Mugo

The law firm Bulkley Richardson announced that A. Hazel Mugo has joined the firm as Counsel. A member of the Business and Finance Department, she focuses her practice on general corporate, business, and financial law and commercial transactions. Mugo works principally in Bulkley Richardson’s Springfield office, and is also a member of the New York Bar. She has advised borrowers and lenders on all aspects of financing, including secured and unsecured debt financing, and venture-capital and acquisition financing. She has also advised financial institutions on private placements and securities-law matters. Mugo teaches mutual-fund and hedge-fund law at the University of Connecticut School of Law on an adjunct basis, and serves as a fellow at the school’s Insurance Law Center. She earned her doctorate and LL.M. from Harvard Law School, and LL.B., magna cum laude, from the University of Nairobi in Kenya, and practiced as a corporate associate at major international firms.
•••••

Caron LaCour

West Springfield-based Burkhart, Pizzanelli, P.C. announced that Caron LaCour has joined the certified public accounting firm. LaCour’s prior experience includes six years with J.M. O’Brien & Co., P.C. as a Senior Tax Specialist and 11 years as a Staff Accountant for Kostin, Ruffkess & Co., LLC. LaCour received her BS in Accounting from Western New England University.
•••••

David Chase

The Gray House recently inducted David Chase, Vice President/Commercial Lender at Hampden Bank in Springfield, to its board of directors for a three-year term. The nonprofit organization is a small neighborhood human-services agency that assists neighbors facing hardships in meeting their immediate and transitional needs by providing food, clothing, and educational services in a safe, positive environment in the North End of Springfield. Chase, who has more than 20 years of banking experience, also serves on the Agawam Planning Board, is a member of the Board of Directors of the West of the River Chamber, and is a member of the Rotary Club of Springfield.
•••••
Hampden Bank recently announced the following:

Amy Scribner

• Amy Scribner has been promoted to Vice President and Director of Marketing. She joined Hampden Bank in 1990 and has worked in the Marketing Department since 2002. She is now responsible for the support of the bank’s strategic marketing initiatives as well as all marketing and advertising; and

Tara Corthell

• Tara Corthell has been promoted to Senior Vice President and Director of Finance. She joined Hampden Bank in 2005 as the Financial Manager; she previously worked at Investors Bank & Trust in Boston as a Reporting and Compliance manager. Corthell will oversee all of the organization’s financial functions.
•••••
The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce announced its first-ever Chamber Ambassador of the Year Award, honoring Darlene Morse, Business Account Representative at CareerPoint. Morse received the award after volunteering the most hours of any ambassador this past year. Since becoming an ambassador in 2006, Morse has attended and assisted in over 100 events. Morse and her manager, CareerPoint Executive Director David Gadaire, will be honored at the chamber’s Holiday Business Breakfast on Dec. 11 at the Delaney House in Holyoke.
•••••

Ralph Abbott Jr.

Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., a Springfield-based labor and employment law firm serving the Greater Springfield area, announced that Ralph Abbott Jr. was named to the Best Lawyers 2014 Springfield, Mass., as Labor Law-Management Lawyer of the Year. A partner in the firm since 1975, Abbott represents management in labor relations and employment-related matters, providing employment-related advice to employers, assisting clients in remaining union-free, and representing employers before the National Labor Relations Board. Those honored as Lawyers of the Year have received particularly high ratings in surveys by earning a superior level of respect among their peers for their abilities, professionalism, and integrity. This is Abbott’s second win in three years.
•••••
Allison Chen has been named Manager of Great Ideas at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC). Formerly with Fidelity Investments in Smithfield, R.I., Chen brings her experience in business analysis, customer experience, satisfaction planning, and service delivery with her to STCC, where she will serve as Manager of Great Ideas, a ‘Voice of the Associate’ program implemented at the college in 2011 to better serve the campus community. The Great Ideas program has implemented more than 1,500 employee ideas with a projected cost savings to the college of more than $700,000. Chen earned her BS in 1997 from the UMass Amherst and her MBA from Boston College in 2011.
•••••

Elvira Loncto

Elvira Loncto, a Service Line Manager of Geriatrics and Extended Care at VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, was recently honored at the 11th annual Excellence in Government Awards luncheon, hosted by the Federal Executive Assoc. of Western Massachusetts (FEAWM) at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House. The FEAWM recognizes the best and the brightest employees in federal service in the region in 15 categories. Loncto supervises staff in seven community-care programs, is the local administrator of the Community Living Center, and oversees a substantial budget, which impacts older enrolled veterans from Berkshire County to Fitchburg.
•••••
The Springfield Group of Northwestern Mutual recently appointed Cathy Hunter, Nico Santaniello, and Timothy Barnes as Financial Representatives. They will join a network of specialists offering a wide array of products including business-continuation planning, business risk management, financial planning, retirement planning, and more. Before joining Northwestern Mutual, Hunter was a Real Estate Broker at Goggins Real Estate in Northampton, and received a bachelor’s degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Previous to joining Northwestern Mutual, Santaniello was a Teller at TD Bank in Longmeadow, and received a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Western New England University. Prior to his new position, Barnes was Life Enhancement Director at Loomis Communities, and received an associate’s degree from Holyoke Community College and a Community Health certificate from Springfield Technical Community College.

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Company Notebook Departments

HCC to Receive $20.3M to Renovate Campus Center
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College will receive more than $20 million over the next few years to renovate its Campus Center. Massachuetts Gov. Deval Patrick announced a plan earlier this month to spend $1.8 billion on capital-improvement projects throughout the state. HCC’s share will be $300,000 in the current fiscal year, FY 2014, and an additional $20 million over the next few years. “We are most appreciative of this commitment by the state,” said HCC President William Messner in a message to the HCC community, “as it will address a critical need and be a significant step in alleviating deferred maintenance issues on our campus.” The $300,000 will be used for planning, with the $20 million to be spent on renovations and improvements. The main priority for the Campus Center project is to waterproof the building, said Bill Fogarty, vice president of Administration and Finance. The Campus Center, or G building, was the last of the original campus buildings to be constructed after HCC moved to Homestead Avenue, opening in 1981. The third floor was renovated in 2009 and turned into a center for Electronic Media Arts. The building has long been plagued by leaks, and makeshift internal drainage systems constructed from aluminum, housing gutters, garden hoses, and buckets, are evident throughout the building. “There is a serious water-infiltration issue that needs to be addressed,” Fogarty said. “We have plastic bags over expensive equipment over there. It’s ridiculous.” Beyond the waterproofing, administrators are considering a number of different options for renovations, including possible expansion. One idea is to move the Campus Bookstore from the first floor to the second floor and the Student Activities Office from the Donahue Building to be closer to the Food Court, “so we can have some synergy and build more instructonal space on the first floor,” said Fogarty. Another option is to move the HCC Welcome Center, which houses Admissions and Student Account Services, from the second floor of the Frost Building to the Campus Center. Fogarty said he favors moving the Culinary Arts program from the Frost Building to the Campus Center to be closer to HCC’s food-service operation. Expanding kitchen space would allow HCC to offer an associate degree in Culinary Arts. Currently, HCC offers Culinary Arts as a one-year certificate program.

Monson Savings Bank Is SBA Lender of the Year
MONSON — Monson Savings Bank has been named the Western Mass. “7a Lender of the Year” by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Robert Nelson, SBA district director for Massachusetts, and Anne Hunt, SBA lead lending specialist, presented Steve Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank, with the Lender of the Year Award at the bank’s Loan Center on Nov. 18. Monson Savings earned the award by closing on more of the SBA’s flagship small-business 7a loans in Western Mass. than any other bank during the SBA’s 2013 fiscal year. The bank made these loans to a wide variety of retail, professional, and consumer-service-oriented businesses in more than 10 different industries from transportation to construction; childcare to healthcare. “This is a very exciting award for us,” Lowell said, “because it goes to the heart of our brand promise to help small businesses prosper. These are the businesses that drive our local and regional economies, and it feels great to play a role in this economic activity.” Lowell accepted the award on behalf of the entire commercial-lending and loan-servicing departments at the bank, most of whom were present at the ceremony. “It was great for the SBA officials to come to our offices to present the award because it’s so important to recognize the people who work so hard for and care so much about our business customers,” said Lowell.

Chick-fil-A to Open Restaurant in Chicopee
CHICOPEE — Chick-fil-A will open its first restaurant in Chicopee in early 2014. To be located at 501 Memorial Dr., the 4,976-square-foot restaurant is project to open in the first quarter of the year, and create roughly 80 new jobs. The restaurant will seat 135 people and offer wi-fi, a drive-thru, and an indoor play area. As it does at every grand opening, Chick-fil-A will celebrate its arrival in Chicopee by giving away a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A meals (52 certificates) to the first 100 adults in line on opening day. Owner/operator Robert Hewes has been selected to operate the Chicopee restaurant.

MGM Springfield, Ludlow Announce Surrounding-community Agreement
LUDLOW — MGM Resorts International announced that it has finalized the first surrounding-community agreement for its MGM Springfield proposal with the town of Ludlow. Earlier this month, members of the town’s board of selectmen unanimously endorsed the agreement. Mike Mathis, MGM Resorts Vice President of Global Gaming Development, said that “the first agreement is an important one. It has energized us, and demonstrates that, with good communication and an open mind, there is a way forward for all parties involved. We thank the Ludlow town leaders for their hard work and cooperation leading up to today.” The agreement will pay Ludlow $50,000 upfront and a minimum of $100,000 annually based on a third-party impact analysis. Collaboratively, MGM and designated surrounding communities will work to select a third-party analyst. Additionally, the agreement includes a look-back period on the first- and fifth-year anniversaries so that the actual impacts can be measured and addressed. In addition to the mitigation dollars that have been agreed upon between Ludlow and MGM, the company will contribute, through state-tax payments, to certain funds set up by the Massachusetts gaming law. Surrounding communities can go through the Mass. Gaming Commission to draw upon these funds for additional unforeseen impacts. MGM has been working with officials from eight communities to better understand their questions and concerns around the MGM Springfield project. As a result of these meetings and communications, the MGM team hopes to come to similar agreements before its application is due on Dec. 31. MGM Springfield, an approximately $800 million resort, is proposed for 14.5 acres of land between Union and State streets, and between Columbus Avenue and Main Street. MGM is seeking the sole gaming license in Western Mass.

FSB Receives SBA Award for Lending Program
FLORENCE — Florence Savings Bank has received the 2013 Western Massachusetts SBA 504 Lender of the Year by Dollars Award from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). The SBA 504 Loan Program is available to help startup and existing businesses with a wide range of activities, including working capital and to purchase, renovate, or construct real estate. The award was presented at a ceremony at the SBA offices in Boston in mid-November. We are very proud to have won this award,” said Joseph Traczynski, senior lending executive and senior vice president of FSB. “Our bank is committed to helping local business get access to the resources they need to grow and compete, and the SBA loan programs allow us to expand our lending to more businesses and help create jobs for our area.” Massachusetts small-business owners received 1,869 loans supporting $605 million from the SBA in fiscal year 2013 (Oct. 1, 2012 through Sept. 30, 2013), according to an announcement made by Massachusetts SBA Director Robert Nelson. More than 18,000 jobs were supported across the state, including 8,375 newly created jobs, as a result of SBA’s lending activity. “We are very fortunate to have lending partners like Florence Bank that are so committed to the communities they serve and utilize the SBA programs to service the needs of their small-business customers. Congratulations to Florence Bank on this award,” Nelson said. Previously, Florence Savings Bank received an SBA award for the most loans to women-owned businesses in Massachusetts. Florence Savings Bank was founded in 1873 and has nine offices in Hampshire County, as well as loan offices in Greenfield and West Springfield. The bank currently employs 200 people.

Briefcase

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Briefcase Departments

Tolosky Steps Down as Baystate President, CEO
SPRINGFIELD — Mark Tolosky has decided to end his tenure as president and CEO of Baystate Health effective July 1, 2014. Tolosky, who has served in that role since 2004, will be succeeded by Dr. Mark Keroack. “It is an extraordinarily difficult decision to give up the privilege of serving so many people in our community and touching so many lives,” said Tolosky, whose decision culminates a longstanding personal and professional plan to transition his leadership of Baystate. “But I’m confident that now is the right time to move on to my next phase, as my Baystate colleagues continue to lead the way in transforming healthcare toward greater quality, accessibility, and affordability.” The Baystate Health board of trustees has unanimously approved the appointment of Keroack, a native of Springfield, to assume the role of president and CEO of Baystate Health next year. As an interim step, on Jan. 1, 2014, Keroack will assume the additional title and authority of president and CEO of Baystate Medical Center. “It is a great honor to be selected as the next leader of this wonderful organization,” said Keroack. “The new healthcare world will require an unprecedented level of connectedness between nurses, doctors, and allied health professionals; between specialty and primary care providers; between those who touch our patients and those who support them; between health plan and delivery system; and across all the communities and regions that we serve. I am excited to continue this great work, here in the town where I grew up, and across all of Western Mass., to achieve a higher state of caring for the people we serve.”  Keroack’s father, Dr. Alvin Keroack, served the Sixteen Acres community of Springfield for many years as a general practitioner and occasionally brought his son, Mark, to what was then Springfield Hospital (now Baystate Medical Center) for rounds. Keroack’s mother, Mary Phaneuf Keroack, was a nurse and graduate of the Springfield Hospital School of Nursing, which became the Baystate School of Nursing. Tolosky joined Baystate in 1992 as executive vice president of Baystate Health and CEO of Baystate Medical Center. In 2004, he was promoted to president and CEO of Baystate Health. Under Tolosky, Baystate has been named one of the nation’s top 15 integrated health systems, and its hospitals, services, and employees have received multiple prestigious healthcare-quality honors. “Mark’s vision has been not only to transform the quality of our care, but our presence across the region as well,” said Victor Woolridge, chair of the board of trustees. “In the last 15 years, we have reinvested over $750 million into our communities and dramatically improved the facilities and services available to patients across Western Mass.” Baystate’s facility investments during Tolosky’s tenure include the $300 million expansion of Baystate Medical Center in 2012, comprising the MassMutual Wing, the Davis Family Heart & Vascular Center, the Harold Grinspoon and Diane Troderman Adult Emergency Department, and the Sadowsky Family Pediatric Emergency Department; recent renovations at Baystate Franklin Medical Center and Baystate Mary Lane Hospital; the construction of the Chestnut Surgery Center, the 3300 Main St. outpatient center, the D’Amour Center for Cancer Care, the Baystate Orthopedic Surgery Center, and the Baystate Children’s Specialty Center, all in Springfield, where a formerly underused stretch of Main Street in the North End is now a burgeoning ‘Medical Mile’; as well as many other upgrades in facilities and clinical capabilities across the Baystate Health system. After the July transition, Tolosky will assume the title of president emeritus and support his successor Keroack as needed. “I look forward to working closely with Dr. Keroack over the next six months to continue to advance relationships critical to the success of our organization and the health of our community, while transitioning the duties of CEO,” said Tolosky. Prior to joining Baystate Health, Keroack served on the faculty of the University of Massachusetts for 12 years. During that time, he was a busy practitioner focusing on HIV and AIDS care and won five annual teaching awards. He subsequently provided executive leadership at UMass Memorial Health Care in Worcester as vice president for Medical Management and later as the first executive director of the 700-physician UMass Memorial Medical Group. He then joined University Health System Consortium (UHC) in Chicago, where he served as senior vice president and chief medical officer. There, he oversaw programs for clinical and operational performance improvement, faculty group practice management, patient safety, and accreditation. Keroack graduated from Amherst College and Harvard Medical School, and received his MPH from Boston University. He trained in internal medicine and infectious diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

Construction Adds 17,000 Jobs in November
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Construction employers added 17,000 jobs in November as the sector’s employment hit the highest level since August 2009, and the industry unemployment rate fell to 8.6%, according to an analysis of new government data by Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted that the new employment figures come as construction spending levels hit a four-year high in October. “While these new employment figures are very encouraging, growth remains uneven by segment, region, and time period,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “There are likely to be continuing variations in growth between home building, private non-residential, and public sector.” Construction employment totaled 5,851,000 in November, an increase of 178,000 from a year earlier, Simonson noted. But while employment grew by 3.1% during the past year, construction employment remains nearly 1.9 million below the sector’s April 2006 peak. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for workers actively looking for jobs and last employed in construction declined from 12.2% in November 2012 to 8.6% last month. Non-residential construction firms added 7,900 new jobs in November, while residential firms added 8,400 jobs. While every segment of the construction industry added jobs in November, heavy and civil engineering firms — which are most likely to perform federal construction work — added the least amount, only 200 jobs. Meanwhile, residential specialty trade contractors added the most new jobs during the past month, 7,100. The number of unemployed construction workers dropped from 988,000 in November 2012 to 706,000 in November 2013, a decline of 282,000.

Unemployment Rates Fall for Both Women, Men
WASHINGTON, D.C. — According to analysis by the Institute for Women’s Policy Research (IWPR), due to continued job growth in November, women hold more jobs on payrolls than ever before, while men have regained 75% (4.5 million) of the jobs they lost during the recession. Of the 2.3 million jobs added to payrolls in the last year, 51% were filled by women, and 49% were filled by men. Nonetheless, men held 1.6 million more jobs than women in November. IWPR’s analysis of the December employment report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) finds that, of the 203,000 total jobs added in November, women gained 94,000 of those jobs (46%), while men gained 109,000 jobs (54%). Women’s employment growth was strongest in education and health services (39,000 jobs gained by women), professional and business services (17,000 jobs), and retail trade (15,600 jobs). If the number of jobs had grown as fast as the working-age population since the start of the recession, women would hold 3.8 million more jobs in November 2013, and men would hold an additional 5.4 million. “While unemployment is dropping and men are steadily regaining the jobs they lost during the recession,” said IWPR Study Director Jeffrey Hayes, “employment growth for both men and women hasn’t caught up with population growth. We still need to focus on creating jobs — especially jobs that pay well and provide benefits.” According to the household survey data reported by the BLS, the unemployment rate decreased to 6.7% in November for women and 7.3% for men. Among single mothers, however, the unemployment rate increased slightly to 9.7%. The November data builds on IWPR’s analysis of trends that emerged in the first four years of the recovery, notably the relative growth in industries — such as education and health services — with high concentrations of women workers, and the contraction in government jobs and their effects on job growth for both men and women. The Institute for Women’s Policy Research conducts research and disseminates its findings to address the needs of women and their families, promote public dialogue, and strengthen communities and societies.

MGM Resorts Found Suitable for Casino License
BOSTON — Investigators for the Massachusetts Gaming Commission recently recommended that MGM Resorts International be found suitable to apply for a casino license, subject to certain conditions. MGM is planning an $800 million casino project in Springfield’s South End. Among the conditions investigators posed, MGM must satisfy the commission that its business practices in Macau meet a legal standard of “responsible business practices” in any jurisdiction, and must also satisfy the commission regarding Terry Christensen, a former member of the MGM board who resigned after a federal indictment for wiretapping and conspiracy. MGM is the sole remaining applicant for a casino license in Western Mass. after voters in West Springfield and Palmer rejected casino proposals earlier this year. Springfield voters approved a casino by a 58-42 margin. At press time, the five-member Gaming Commission was expected to vote on whether MGM is suitable to apply for a casino license in Springfield. MGM owns 99% of the Springfield project, and local hotel owner Paul Picknelly owns 1%, investigators reported.

Incorporations

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

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

New Energy Regeneration Inc., 173 Pondview Dr., Amherst, MA 01002. Irvin Rhodes, same. Management of companies and enterprises.

CHICOPEE

Performance Mechanical Inc., 944 Sheridan St., Chicopee, MA 01022. John S. Dickson, 145 Stonehill Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. HVAC.

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Dollars For Scholars Inc., 34 1/2 Clark St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Stephen J. Zavisza, same. Charitable and educational purposes.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Landmark Management Group Inc., 444A North Main St., Suite 234, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Matthew J. Kearney, same. Management and consulting.

FEEDING HILLS

Heather-Jill Williams Family Law, PC., 850 Springfield St., Suite 3, Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Healther-Jill K. Williams, same. Law office.

HADLEY

Valley Construction Company Inc., 39 Shattuck Road, Hadley, MA 01035. Peter A. Gelinas, same. Invest, hold, develop, renovate, and sell real estate

NORTHAMPTON

Drozdal Funeral Home Inc., 120 Damon Road, Northampton, MA 01060. Lindsey A. Akers, 27 Ladd Avenue, Florence, MA 01062. Funeral home.

Lyme Disease Resource Center Inc., 37 Butler Place #1F, Northampton, MA 01060. Maria T. Malaguti, same. Non-profit providing education and information to individuals with Lyme Disease

PITTSFIELD

Barnaby Plumbing & Heating Inc., Wabasso Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Timothy P. Barnaby, same. Plumbing and heating service.

SPRINGFIELD

Betty Laws Fights Back Inc., 120 Fenwick St., Springfield, MA 01109. Aleana M. Laster, same. To write, publish, and distribute educational materials to benefit young people.

JR Cummings Corp., 56 Margerie St., Springfield, MA 01109. James Richard Cummings Jr., same. Corporate holding company.

Miramar Quick Service Restaurant Corp., 603 Sumner Ave., Springfield, MA 01108. Khalid Drihmi, 22 Sorrento St., Springfield, MA 01108. Quick service food and restaurant business.

Springfield Auto Recyclers Inc., 148 Temby St., Springfield, MA 01119. Allan M. Bartlett, same. Motor vehicle recycling and sales.

Veterans In Packaging Inc., 48 Zypher Lane, Springfield, MA 01128. Ed
Peplinski, same. To construct, acquire, sell, and convey packaging and packaging supplies.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

The Friends of the Springfield Vet Center Inc., Springfield Vet Center 95 Ashley Street, West Springfield, MA 01089. Diane Marie Snow, 13 Country Club Dr., Westfield, MA 01085. Promote interest for veterans associated with Springfield Vet Center

WESTFIELD

Safety Restore Inc., 45 Meadow St., Westfield, MA 01085. Artem Martynyuk, 111 Pineview Dr., Springfield, MA 01119. Auto parts repair.

Doing Business as Certificates

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

DBA Certificates Departments

The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of December 2013.

AGAWAM

Antique Aces
704 Springfield St.
William LeClair

Bittersweet
1325 Springfield St.
Kyu Lee

Heather Jill-Williams
850 Springfield St.
Heather Jill-Williams

L & A Transportation
3 Beekman Dr.
Lutvija Katica

Marzano Smith, LLC
346 Rowley St.
Josephine Smith

Sergey Savonin
30 Clifton Dr.
Sergey Savonin

St. John’s Travelers
2 Meadowbrook Manor
Joseph E. Cote

CHICOPEE

Being Well Therapeutic Massage
1263 Granby Road
Alina Zielinski

Jude Craft Specialties
88 Old Fuller Road
Judith Bourne

Poor Boys Closeouts
460 Chicopee St.
Cody Gregoire

Western Mass. Emergency Electric
117 Sunny Meade Ave.
Brian Riddle

EAST LONGMEADOW

Springfield Valley Hypnosis Center
280 North Main St.
Sandra Newmann

Toner Plastics Inc.
35 Industrial Dr.
Steven Graham

Veritech Corporation
80 Denslow Road
Steven Graziano

GREENFIELD

Aerus Electrolux
40 Bank Row
MMB Marketing Inc.

BK Tile & Stone
50 Federal St.
Billy Whittaker

CAB Transportation
76 Vernon St.
Cynthia Aldrich

Dollar General
367 Federal St.
DG Retail, LLC

Grover Home Improvement
245 Friar Way
Michael Grover

Martin’s Farm
341 Plain Road
Adam Martin

HOLYOKE

CVS Pharmacy
325 Pine St.
Linda M. Cimbron

Harting Associates
11 Grant St.
Carl F. Harting

Ilevis Hair and Salon
171 High St.
Isadeliz Rivera

Mercy Recovery Services
1233 Main St.
Kevin Jourdain

Vape and Hookah Emporium
50 Holyoke St.
Keycha Mastey

PALMER

JMP Environmental Consulting
116 Main St.
John Prenosil

Tenczar’s Food Town
2004 Main St.
Malik Saghir

SPRINGFIELD

Aastha Inc.
459 Main St.
Chandresh S. Patel

American Handyman
104 Seymour Ave.
Jean Wunch

Andrew L. Woods Ties
140 Bowles St.
Andrew L. Woods

Boutique Paris
36 Hillside Dr.
Yunier Rusinque

Brace Cleaning Service
163 Old Farm Road
Jeffrey S. Brace

Bruno & Albano Property Management
261 Oakland St.
Alexis A. Bruno

Cristal’s Market
261 Oakland St.
Pedro T. Perez

Crystal’s Z and R Lawn Care
73 Navajo Road
Crystal Kelly-Reid

D & F Food Services Inc.
355 Belmont Ave.
Aleandro Mirabal

Dream Décor Inc.
756 State St.
Abdul Sattar

Game Boyz
904 Carew St.
Thu T. Nguyen

Grannies, LLC
174 Wollaston St.
Joy N. Owens

J.G. Barber Shop
176 Oakland St.
Gerardo Antonio

James Scurry Home Improvement
87 Duryea St.
James Scurry

Jasran Construction
252 Parker St.
Randy E. Wilson

JSG
22 Dunbar St.
Joanna S. Gawron

K Financial Services
569 Page Blvd.
Patricia M. Korman

K.O.C. Construction
11 Gold St.
Nelson Menjivar

Latin Gourmet
1655 Main St.
Juan J. Roldan

WESTFIELD

Bright Cloud Studio
102 Elm St.
Robert F. Burch III

M & K Lighted Cemetery Wreaths
33 Stuart Place
Carol Tessier

Sharon Morley Photography
730 Montgomery Road
Sharon A. Morley

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Beacon Aba Services
59 Interstate Dr.
Robert F. Littleton

Big Time Cuts Barbershop
2009 Riverdale St.
Victor M. Lopez

Bio Green Existence
119 Highland Ave.
Jonathan Karas

First Chance Life Coaching
51 Van Deene St.
Kency Gilet

Galleria 11:32
715 Main St.
Gabriel Martinez

Khan Heating Oil
2383 Westfield St.
David K. Frasco

Willett Quality Jobs
1350 Morgan Road
Denis M. Willett

Bankruptcies

By BusinessWest Staff December 17, 2013

Bankruptcies Departments

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

ACS, Inc.
Architectural Construction
Tavernia, Lee Francis
PO Box 254
East Otis, MA 01029
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/13/13

Arruda, Edmund S.
Arruda, Laura B.
572 Old Stage Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/23/13

Asante, Lana
6 Acton St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/06/13

Barnett, Mychael
14 Berkeley St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Baum, Alan L.
30 Miller Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Bedore, John P.
262 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Bielunis, Alexander John
8 Sequoia Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/12/13

Bixby, Jane C.
372 Page Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

Boucher, Robin M.
245 Sand Springs Road
Williamstown, MA 01267
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/01/13

Bresnahan, Alyssa M.
P.O. Box 464
Holyoke, MA 01041
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Brooks, Tara M.
999 Hampden St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/14/13

Brown, Donna M.
16 Lawndale St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/11/13

Butler, George W.
Butler, Esther A.
PO Box 25
Oakham, MA 01068
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/30/13

Campbell, Lori A.
44 May Hill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Caney, Verna M.
269 Stony Hill Road
Apt. G3-108
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/28/13

Cassidy, Mary Catherine
44 Maple St. #1
Florence, MA 01062
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Collins, Todd W.
653 Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/05/13

Core Fitness
St. Sauveur, John
27 Chapin Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Crespo Negron, Carlos Alverto
Baez Alvarado, Maritza
134 Union St. Apt 35
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Crow, Karen A.
a/k/a Moorhouse, Karen
394 Chapin St.
Apartment 12
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/06/13

DAS Construction
Stein, Yanir
a/k/a Stein Schabes, Yanir
Ban Stein, Rachel Ina
Stein, Rachel
18 Fort Hill Road
Haydenville, MA 01039
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

Daviau, David E.
111 Adelaide Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/18/13

DeJesus, Erica Ann-Marie
a/k/a Williamsen, Erica Ann-Marie
74 Newhall St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Dembinske, Paula
53 Beacon St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

Depalma, Brooke N.
56 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Drinkwine, Kathy A.
118 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/11/13

Dufraine, Tammy J.
77 Skyridge Dr.
Springfield, MA 01102
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Faulkner, Donald W.
4 Marshall St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/09/13

Fehily, Thomas G.
Fehily, Kathryn M.
23 Tom St.
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Fila, Christopher E.
1331 East Columbus Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/08/13

Flahive, Ted M.
105 Amherst Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Flis, John M.
Flis, Helen E.
670 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Fortier, Jean R.
76 Mitchell Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01022
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/13/13

Francisco, Pascual M.
P.O. Box 1089
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/01/13

Gentile, Dominick Joseph
Gentile, Lori Jean
359 South Branch Parkway
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/28/13

Germain, Jeffery L.
29 Agnes St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Gibbons, Matthew S.
159 Pleasant St.
Uxbridge, MA 01569
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/17/13

Gilliam, Thomas F.
Gilliam, Jessica R.
a/k/a Shaw, Jessica
a/k/a Tower, Jessica
P.O. Box 87
Lee, MA 01260
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/08/13

Girly’s Grill Inc.
Lind, Loribeth
11 Valley View Heights
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Glace, Andrew J.
97 Van Meter Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/20/13

Gomes, Victor G.
Gomes, Jennifer J.
42 Kittredge Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Gornall, Justin M.
Gornall, Theresa A.
5 Ingersoll Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/17/13

Green, Gordon C.
7 Nelson St.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/14/13

Griffin, Brian Patrick
7 Evangeline Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/12/13

Hampshire Computer Service
Brosseau, Daryl W.
6 Parc Place Apt. 7
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Hanson, Deanna H.
8 Acorn St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

Harrington, Brian K.
10 Lakewood Dr.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/15/13

Heston, Cheryl A.
35 Hadely Road, Apt. 222
Sunderland, MA 01375
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

Heywood, David
PO Box 675
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Hill, Stephen T.
4 Warren Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/08/13

Jarvis, Richard T.
62 Thornton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/01/13

Jones, Jacque L.
P.O. Box 63
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/17/13

Jose, Ramon E.
25 Talcott Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Jozefowicz, Lynn A.
120 Acrebrook Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Jurczyk, Thomas J.
97 Simonich Circle
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/04/13

Kelleher, Timothy G.
Kelleher, Louise D.
33 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/17/13

Kenyon, Mary-Lou J.
a/k/a Dronzek, Marylou J.
a/k/a Kenyon, Marylou
a/k/a Dronzek, Marylou
2038 Oak St.
Three Rivers, MA 01080
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/28/13

Kingsbury, James R.
7 Sefton Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077-9746
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/30/13

Kokoski, Christine Lucia
358 River Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Kumiega, Amber R.
51A Oak St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

LaFountain, Donna J.
439 Crane Ave., Apt. #4
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/06/13

Lane, Allison T.
47 Emmet St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Lasorsa, Anthony J.
Lasorsa, Laura M.
10 Gary Place
Feeding Hills, MA 01030
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Lavelle, Sandra G.
28 Russell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/13/13

Lenkowski, Farilyn E.
25 Strong St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/19/13

Leonard, Joseph Robert
8C Elm St.
South Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Lockwood, Lydia E.
148 Riviera Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Manzi, Philip
100 Beech St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/15/13

Manzi, Diane M.
11 Buckingham Drive
Southwick, MA 01077
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/15/13

Marie, Leticia
99 Lawrence St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/14/13

Martinez, Margarita
116 Barre St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Marusarz, Laurie J.
240 Lenox Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/15/13

Masterjohn, Nicholas
Masterjohn, Ligia
10 Burbank Ave.
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

McLean, Bruce T.
McLean, Dawn L.
111 Stevenson St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Mieltowski, John S.
PO Box 686
Palmer, MA 01069
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/17/13

Miner, Bradford L.
Miner, Virginia P.
a/k/a Perrier, Virginia L.
PO Box 1176
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/01/13

Molina, Marisol
a/k/a Molina, Marie D.
18 Littleton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/13/13

Morrow, James M.
34 Cross Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Murray, Velikia V.
33 Massachusetts Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/30/13

Nolin, Jennifer
P.O. Box 39
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/23/13

O’Neil, Todd M.
34 Nantasket St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/07/13

Opalenik, Stephen
5 Bach Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/03/13

Orr, Sterling W.
146 Sawmill Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/01/13

Parker, Roger
29 Cambridge St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Pelletier, Lori A.
34 Cross Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Pennell, Daisy C.
2 Carver St.
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/25/13

Perez, Evelyn E.
5 Belli Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/14/13

Rafferty, Maureen
139 New Ludlow Road
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/26/13

Roberts, Darryll T.
152 Casey Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Rodriguez, Cesar Guillermo
124 Kirkland Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/06/13

Rose, Kathleen P.
16B Hampshire Heights
Northampton, MA 01060
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/13/13

Rouillard, Roger J.
Rouillard, Shannon A.
a/k/a Zachary, Shannon
20 Ward St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Rovatti-Leonard, Angela Eileen
8C Elm St.
South Deerfield, MA 01373
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Ruddeforth, Thomas H.
Ruddeforth, Debra J.
468 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/12/13

Russell, Sharon L.
298 School St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/10/13

Russo, Gasparino M.
Russo, Christine M.
214 Lawton St
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Salem, Joseph G.
65 Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/04/13

Salgado-Agosto, William
372 Linden St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Santaniello, Catherine V.
7 Plumtree Circle
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Santiago, Joanne
70 Broadway St., Apt 1
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/06/13

Sayles, Kimberly A.
a/k/a Childs, Kimberly A.
139 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/29/13

Serrato, Joseph V.
Serrato, Kathleen S.
10 Town Farm Road
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/05/13

Sivard, Michelle F.
264 Huntington Road
Chester, MA 01011
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/28/13

Smith, Dakota L. Cotton
PO Box 60311
Longmeadow, MA 01116-0311
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 10/18/13

Smith, Vincent Matthew
53 Sanford St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Snow, Brian J.
102 South Main Road
Otis, MA 01253
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/08/13

St. Sauveur, Susan
319 West Ave
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/22/13

Stanton, Leslea L.
906 George Carter Road
Becket, MA 01223
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/01/13

Stone, Cindy C.
36 South St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/14/13

Storer, Michael L.
Lafountain, Nancy R.
12 George St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/06/13

Tatro, Timothy F.
20 Biltmore Ave.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/07/13

Thayer, Virginia E.
786 Pleasant St.
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/04/13

Thibault, Yvette
P.O. Box 1242
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/30/13

Thomas, Jermey L.
64 West St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/28/13

Thompson, Ronald W.
Thompson, Kim A.
117 Athol Road
Royalston, MA 01368
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/04/13

Torres, Wilson
70 Walnut St., Apt. 70
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Trinidad, Felix R.
43 Bristol St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Vallecillo, Jessica P.
84 Fuller St., Unit 12
Ludlow, MA 01056-2310
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/24/13

Vancini, Mona A.
146 Kathleen St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 11/05/13

Vazquez, Angel J.
764 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/21/13

Watson, Richard W.
Watson, Ann E.
40 East Myrtle St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/31/13

Wood, Brian C.
Wood, Amy
74 River St.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 10/23/13

Zina, Jovita B.
P.O. Box 148
Ludlow, MA 01056
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 11/07/13

Briefcase

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Briefcase Departments

State’s Jobless Rate Remains Above 7%
BOSTON — The state’s unemployment rate remained above 7% for the fourth consecutive month in October as the Commonwealth’s expansion continued what has been a slow advance. The jobless rate rose to 7.2% in October, compared with 7.1% in September and 7.2% in August, according to the state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development. The U.S. unemployment rate was 7.3% for October. Massachusetts added 9,100 jobs in October after increasing payrolls by 9,400 positions in September, the state reported. However, those gains were not enough to put a dent in unemployment, analysts said. The automatic federal budget cuts known as sequestration, which went into effect earlier this year, have disproportionately hurt Massachusetts, due to its high concentration of industries that rely on such funding, such as defense, healthcare, and scientific research, experts noted. The leisure and hospitality sector, which includes hotels and restaurants, led October’s job gains, adding 3,200 positions. Trade, transportation, and utilities gained 2,500 jobs, and the education and health services sector added 1,900 jobs. Construction jobs have grown steadily, adding 1,300 jobs in the month and 6,300 over the past year, a 5.5% increase. The financial activities sector added 600 jobs in October, and the professional, scientific, and business services sector gained only 600 jobs. Manufacturing lost 1,400 jobs over the month, and government employers cut 200 jobs.

Senate Backs Minimum-wage Hike; House Considering Vote
BOSTON — The state Senate voted overwhelmingly late last month to raise the state’s minimum wage from $8 per hour to $11 per hour over three years, putting the Commonwealth on track for the highest such pay in the nation. The Senate voted 32-7 to approve the increase. The measure calls for $1 increases on July 1 in the next three years. House leaders are balking at the proposal, however, warning that it would be a mistake unless the state also cuts costs for businesses by overhauling the state’s unemployment-insurance system. “Right now, the whole proposal, as far as we’re concerned, is in flux,” Speaker Joe DeLeo told the Boston Globe, adding that he expects a vote in the House will wait until at least January.

Governor Pledges $200m for I-91 Viaduct Work
SPRINGFIELD — Gov. Deval Patrick announced $200 million late last month to replace a section of the I-91 viaduct in downtown Springfield, but told the audience at an Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield luncheon that the 2½-year project is only one step toward taking that section of the highway to grade level — or below. “It’s a great opportunity for the city and region to restore the connection of the downtown and riverfront,” Patrick told those assembled. The city’s mayor, Domenic Sarno, said the project could have a potentially huge impact on the city, and said he’s asked the state to think big. “Stay tuned,” he told the audience. “I want something bold and visionary.”

Millford Voters Latest to Say ‘No’ to a Casino
MILFORD — Voters in Milford became the latest in the state to turn thumbs down to a casino plan late last month, rejecting a $1 billion proposal involving Foxwoods by a nearly 2-1 margin. The agreement, which would have allowed the casino giant access to a resort on 187 acres off Interstate 495, was defeated by a vote of 65% to 35%. Voters in Milford thus joined those in West Springfield, Palmer, East Boston, and other cities and towns that have rejected casinos in their communities.

Tower Square Chosen for UMass Satellite Facility
SPRINGFIELD — UMass Amherst officials have chosen Tower Square in downtown Springfield as the site of what’s being called a “satellite center,” which is due to be open for the start of the fall semester in 2014. The facility will be known as “UMass Springfield.” At an elaborate press conference staged in the Tower Square concourse, university, state, and city officials announced that the MassMutual-owned facility had prevailed in a months-long competition to host the satellite facility. The other locations to submit bids were Harrison Place, 1350 Main St. (One Financial Plaza), and the Peter Pan bus terminal. The center will include academic programs to be offered by the UMass campuses in conjunction with UMass Online and UMass Amherst’s Springfield programs.

WSU Trustees Name Interim President
WESTFIELD — Westfield State University trustees have named Elizabeth Preston, vice president of Student Affairs, as the school’s interim president, following the resignation early last month of embattled president Evan Dobelle. Preston will serve until a permanent president is selected, a process that university board of trustees chairman John Flynn expects will take at least until the end of the school year to complete.

Mohegan Sun, Suffolk Downs to Team Up for Revere Casino Bid
BOSTON — Connecticut casino giant Mohegan Sun has agreed to join a Suffolk Downs casino bid in Revere, giving both parties in that entity a second chance to win big in the competition for coveted casino licenses. Mohegan Sun had spent the past five years trying to win the rights to build a casino off the Mass. Turnpike exit in Palmer, but voters there rejected a host-community agreement at a Nov. 5 referendum vote. Meanwhile, Suffolk Downs saw voters in East Boston reject plans to build a casino on track-owned land in that community. Track officials later reworked their plans — placing the casino entirely on land in neighboring Revere, which approved a casino referendum — and commenced a search for a new partner after Caesars Entertainment was asked to bow out amid questions and concerns posed by the Mass. Gaming Commission.

Company Notebook

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Company Notebook Departments

Rockville Financial, United Financial to Merge
WEST SPRINGFIELD — Rockville Financial Inc. and United Financial Bancorp announced recently that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement in a stock-for-stock transaction valued at $369 million, based on the closing price of Rockville Financial Inc. common stock on Nov. 14. The combination will create the largest community bank headquartered in the Hartford-Springfield market, with $4.8 billion in assets, more than 50 branches, and top-five deposit market share in each metropolitan statistical area. In the merger, United Financial Bancorp Inc. shareholders will receive 1.3472 shares of Rockville Financial Inc. common stock for each share of United Financial Bancorp Inc. common stock. Upon closing, Rockville Financial Inc. shareholders will own approximately 49% of stock in the combined company; United Financial Bancorp Inc. shareholders will own approximately 51%. The merger is expected to generate approximately $17.6 million in fully phased-in annual cost savings, or approximately 15% of the expected combined expense total. Additionally, the merger is expected to be approximately 30% accretive to the standalone 2015 earnings of both entities, excluding the impact of the potential revenue-enhancement opportunities. “We are very pleased to announce the combination of these two great community banks,” said William Crawford IV, president and CEO of Rockville Financial. “This merger is a significant step in our strategy to expand our footprint. Our complementary branch networks provide both greater market density and unique franchise scarcity value. The combined company will create a top-performing New England community bank that has the scale, product depth, and efficiency to compete effectively and deliver strong returns to our shareholders and an expanded product suite to our customers.” Added Richard Collins, United Financial Bancorp’s chairman, president, and CEO, “this transaction creates value for our shareholders, customers, and employees. We are uniting two strong community banks and creating a dominant player in the New England banking market with greater competitive strength, growth potential, and profitability. United Bank has a history of growth through mergers of equals dating back to our days as a cooperative bank. It is fitting that today we announce this merger of equals and celebrate the new United Bank.” The new company will be governed by a 20-person board of directors consisting of an equal number of Rockville and United directors. The leadership team of the combined company will be assembled from both organizations with Rockville’s Crawford serving as CEO, United’s J. Jeffrey Sullivan as president, and Rockville’s Eric Newell as chief financial officer. United Financial Bancorp’s Robert Stewart Jr. will serve as chairman of the board of directors, while Raymond Lefurge Jr. from Rockville will be appointed vice chairman. Other key executive positions will be drawn from the executive management teams of both organizations. Collins will retire and provide consulting services for one year. “I am excited to join Bill Crawford and the members of our combined management team to lead the combined company,” said Sullivan. “Individually we are each very good banks; together we have the critical mass to drive efficiency and growth, to take advantage of advancements in technology, and to deliver the best banking experience for our customers.” Upon closing, Rockville Bank will adopt the United name, and the holding company will be United Financial Bancorp Inc. Trading will continue on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol UBNK. The organization will be headquartered in Glastonbury, Conn. It will maintain regional offices in West Springfield and Worcester, as well as Enfield and South Windsor, Conn.

Boston Globe Names PeoplesBank a Top Place to Work
HOLYOKE — For the second year in a row and after an independent survey by WorkplaceDynamics, the Boston Globe has named PeoplesBank as one of Massachusetts’ best employers in its Top Places to Work magazine. “The companies on our Top Places to Work list foster productivity and innovation by investing in the happiness of their employees, which cannot solely be measured in dollars and cents,” said Boston Globe Business Editor Mark Pothier. The Boston Globe invited 1,746 companies to participate, more than 76,000 employee surveys were completed, and 125 were chosen as finalists. Douglas Bowen, president and CEO of PeoplesBank, credited his employees for the bank’s second Top Places to Work award, stating, “this award is really an affirmation from our associates. The Boston Globe named PeoplesBank a Top Place to Work, but their dedication makes it a great place to work.” PeoplesBank attributed its success in being named again this year to a high-performance culture that is focused on community service, environmental sustainability, and employee engagement. According to Janice Mazzallo, executive vice president of Human Resources at PeoplesBank, the bank has created a unique culture and set of values that focus on employee development, life-work balance, and community service. “In order for people to feel engaged, they need to feel as if the company cares about them. Our associates know that that we expect them to be effective and serve customers in a professional manner. They are also clear that we care about them, their families, and the community.” The Boston Globe also noted that, out of the 125 finalists, PeoplesBank was one of 11 that improved their scores the most over last year. The Top Places to Work magazine also highlighted the positive impact of the bank’s weekly farmers’ market. “We’re a local community bank, and for us to be supporting local agriculture, that’s just very important to us,” stated Susan Wilson, first vice president of Corporate Responsibility, in the article.

People on the Move

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Departments People on the Move

Freedom Credit Union, which has nine branches throughout the Pioneer Valley, recently announced the following:

Patricia Carbee

• Patricia Carbee, Freedom’s Assistant Vice President of Internal Auditing, has been promoted to Vice President and Director of Enterprise Risk Management. Carbee, with more than 33 years of experience in the finance industry, including expertise in regulatory auditing, compliance auditing, lending, and management, will manage risk management, guide the development of a risk-based culture throughout all product lines, and oversee the Compliance Department, loan-litigation matters, and business continuity. Most recently, she was an Auditor with New England Credit Union Services, LLC, a division of the Massachusetts Credit Union League. Carbee earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Nichols College. She is also member of the Assoc. of Credit Union Internal Auditors and the Mass. Bankers Internal Auditors Assoc.;

Jeffrey Smith

• Jeffrey Smith joined Freedom as Chief Lending Officer and will manage commercial, mortgage, and consumer lending activities. Smith has 30 years of lending experience in the financial-services industry and has held several senior management positions throughout his career, including his most recent position as Vice President at Florence Savings Bank. Smith earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine at Orono and his MBA in Finance from Western New England University. He is currently President of the Northampton Rotary Club and a member of the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley. Smith has also been an instructor for the Center for Financial Training since 1994, teaching courses on subjects such as real-estate finance, marketing, accounting, and analyzing financial statements; and

Nora Braska

• Nora Braska was named Freedom’s Training and Development Officer. She is responsible for managing employee training of Freedom’s staff and overseeing their professional development. Braska has more than 20 years of experience in the financial-services industry, including her most recent position as Assistant Vice President and Training Officer at Hampden Bank. She is a board member of the Center for Financial Training – Springfield Regional Council, and is a member of the Professional Women’s Chamber of Western Mass.
•••••

Jonathan Goldsmith, Esq

Jonathan Goldsmith, Esq., a partner in the Springfield-based law firm Goldsmith, Katz & Argenio, P.C., was selected as the first recipient of the Massachusetts Bankruptcy Court Pro Bono Award for Western Mass. Goldsmith received the recognition from the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Massachusetts. Goldsmith was presented the award by at a special reception held at the John Joseph Moakley Courthouse in Boston on Oct. 23. The program honors those in the legal professions who have improved the availability of and delivered volunteer legal services in Massachusetts, and recognizes those who have served their local communities as well as assisted in the administration of justice in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court. For more than 25 years, Goldsmith, a specialist in bankruptcy and commercial law, has represented debtors, secured and unsecured creditors, trustees, financial institutions, and creditors’ committees. Goldsmith received his bachelor’s degree from Boston College and his juris doctor degree from Western New England University School of Law.
•••••
Jewish Geriatric Services (JGS), a healthcare system serving seniors and their families for more than 100 years, recently announced the following:
• Alta Stark has been named Director of Marketing & Public Relations and is responsible for ongoing marketing, public relations, and corporate communications for JGS and its affiliates. Stark comes to JGS from Baystate Health, where she spent more than six years as a senior communications specialist. Stark holds a master’s degree in Television, Radio & Film from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and graduated from SU’s College of Visual and Performing Arts with a bachelor’s degree in Advertising Design.
• Darlene Francis has been named Executive Vice President of Wernick Adult Day Health Care Center, located on the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Campus of JGS. Francis is responsible for directing, supervising, and coordinating daily activities for participants at Wernick. Most recently, Francis was the practice manager of the JGS Family Medical Practice, which closed in June 2013. Francis received an associate’s degree in Medical Assisting from Springfield Technical Community College, and is certified by the AAMA. She also holds a bachelor of science degree in Business Administration from American International College, where she earned the Martha Wilson Memorial Award.
•••••

Jonathan Goldsmith, Esq

Amy B. Royal, Esq., Founding Partner of Royal LLP, the woman-owned, boutique, management-side labor and employment law firm, has been elected to serve as the Vice Chairperson of the Board of Directors for the Center for Human Development Inc.
•••••
TD Bank has promoted Lauren Winters to Store Manager of the 412 Boston Road store location. Winters is responsible for new-business development, consumer and business lending, managing personnel, and overseeing day-to-day operations. Winters has six years in banking centered on the customer experience, operations, and training. She joined TD Bank in 2011 and most recently served as an Assistant Store Manager in Chicopee.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Chamber Corners Departments

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

• Dec. 4: ACCGS Business @ Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m. Hosted by the Colony Club, Springfield. Community Foundation of Western Mass. President Katie Allan Zobel will explore the value of philanthropy, report on the success of the inaugural Valley Gives, and provide a sneak peek at this year’s 12-12-13 event. Sponsored by Masiello Employment Services. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission, including complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• Dec. 11: ACCGS Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hosted by La Quinta Inns & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. The program, “The Power of E-mail Marketing,” is a comprehensive look at best practices and winning strategies for getting an audience to open, read, and act on an email. Presented by Liz Provo, authorized local representative for Constant Contact. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for generation admission, including networking time and a boxed lunch. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Dec. 11: Chamber After 5/Holiday Party, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by the Lord Jeffery Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. Sponsored by Amherst Laser & Skin Care. Make new contacts, see old friends, eat, drink, and network. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Dec. 5: Holiday Party, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Hosted by the Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, 264 Exchange St., Chicopee. Free for all members.
• Dec. 7: New York Bus Trip. Bus leaves the chamber parking lot at 7 a.m. and returns at 9:30 p.m. Enjoy a day on your own in New York City. Cost: $48 per person. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101.
• Dec. 9: Gail’s Retirement Party, 5:30 p.m. Hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. After years of hard work and dedication, it’s time for Gail Sherman, president of the Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, to take a permanent vacation. Join us as we offer her best wishes in her retirement. Cost: $25 per person.
• Dec. 18: December Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m. Hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Cost: $20 for members, $26 for non-members.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Dec. 2: New Member Info Session, 12-1 p.m. This is a 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. A light lunch will be served. RSVP to (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].
• Dec. 4: Northampton Chamber Monthly Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by Thornes Marketplace. Sponsored by Keiter Builders, Johnson & Hill Staffing, and United Bank. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can for this casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
• Dec. 17: 2013 December Incite Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m. Presenting speaker: Kathleen McCarthy, Smith College president. Series sponsor: United Personnel. Cost: $20 for members, $30 for non-members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Dec. 2: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m. Hosted by Dunkin’ Donuts, 625 East Main St., in the Little River Plaza Center. Mayor Daniel Knapik would like your participation in the upcoming coffee hour by submitting any questions, concerns, or ideas for discussion. He will also provide updates and news about the city. To submit questions and to register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected]. The public is welcome to attend.
• Dec. 13: Holiday Breakfast 2013, 7:15-9 a.m. Hosted by Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Platinum Sponsor: Westfield State University. Silver Sponsor: Easthampton Savings Bank. More information to come on this annual event.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• Jan. 15: Table Top Expo. For more information, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1310 or [email protected].

Court Dockets

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

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
Harold Sanabria v. Ainsky D. Smith and B & R Leasing Inc.
Allegation: Plaintiff was a bicyclist negligently struck by the defendant’s taxi: $10,198.26
Filed: 10/25/13

GREENFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Stanley S. Boron v. Aubuchon Hardware and Lorenz Family, L.P.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of premises causing fall: $2,000+
Filed: 10/1/13

Lou Giramma v. Peter Sheperd d/b/a Sheperd Masonry and Roofing
Allegation: Breach of contract to perform work at the plaintiff’s home: $22,180
Filed: 10/21/13

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Kent W. Pecoy v. Glen R. Hanson and Colony Hills Capital, LLC
Allegation: Claims for breach of contract, breach of covenant of good faith, and fair dealing: $500,000
Filed: 10/22/13

Nestor M. Sostre, as personal representative of the estate of Nestor E. Sostre v. 272 Worthington Street Inc. d/b/a Glo Ultra Lounge
Allegation: Wrongful death caused by negligent service of alcohol: $8,000
Filed: 11/7/13

QVC Inc. v. Renaissance Specialty Products Inc.
Allegation: Suit on previous judgment for breach of contract: $36,904.84
Filed: 10/16/13

Robert and Annie Jennings v. Wal-Mart Inc.
Allegation: Plaintiff, Robert Jennings, was given the wrong heart medication by Wal-Mart Pharmacy causing hospitalization: $125,000
Filed: 11/15/13

HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Gail Hescock v. Franklin Eye Care Associates, LLC and Pierre Alfred, M.D.
Allegation: Employment discrimination: $198,000
Filed: 9/1/13

Shirley L. Waterhouse v. Amsoni Inc. and Bucklin Neighbors
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property: $17,643.42
Filed: 11/7/13

Sheila Lagrenade v. Lincoln National Corp. d/b/a Lincoln Financial Group
Allegation: Unfair and deceptive trade practices and non-payment of disability benefits: $30,000+
Filed: 11/13/13

HOLYOKE DISTRICT COURT
Kelsie Pinto v. Bruce Transportation Inc.
Allegation: Negligent operation of a bus causing injury: $3,515
Filed: 9/23/13
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Miguel A. Rodriguez v. Transportation Options Inc. and Sig Marie Colon
Allegations: Negligent operation of a motor vehicle: $24,999.99
Filed: 10/9/13

Nicholas A. Sacoio v. BSC Realty Inc. and Mardi Gras Entertainment Inc.
Allegation: Negligent failure to properly train, educate, and supervise employees causing injury to patron: $4,543.10
Filed: 10/17/13

WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
United Service Co., LLC v. Redevco, LLC
Allegation: Default on decontamination and asbestos-removal contract: $20,170
Filed: 10/29/13

PictureThis

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

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]

Gala of Lights
The Spirit of Springfield held its 18th annual City of Bright Nights Ball Nov. 16 in the Grand Ballroom of the Springfield Sheraton in downtown Springfield. The black-tie event, with the theme ‘Under th Sea,’ raised money to support the award-winning Bright Nights in Forest Park, taking place through Jan. 5, and the many events presented by the nonprofit organization.  From top, left to right: from left, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and wife Carla, Patti and Daniel Moen, president and CEO of Sisters of Providence Health System, Patrick Leary, shareholder and vice president of Moriarty and Primack, P.C., Kelley Tucky, Bright Nights Ball chair and vice president of Community and Public Affairs for MGM Springfield, and Richard Ross; Noreen and Mark Tolosky, president and CEO of Baystate Health; the Grand Ballroom is ready for guests; from left, Maj. Matthew Mutti, Col. Kenneth Lute, Col. James Keefe, and Brigadier Gen. Paul Smith salute the military after the singing of the National Anthem. (PHOTOS BY PAUL SCHNAITTACHER)

Lunch Money
The Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) recently hosted a Lunch with Gov. Deval Patrick, left, at the sold-out Springfield Marriott Grand Ballroom, right. The special event was an occasion for the governor to announce a $200 million investment in Phase 1 of the I-91 Springfield Viaduct project and $1.2 million to create a permanent home for Camp STAR Angelina at Forest Park. The investments are expected to be a catalyst for additional economic and community-development opportunities in the region.(PHOTOS BY DRISCOLL PHOTOGRAPHY)

Legislative Voices
On Nov. 21, the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield (ACCGS) held its annual Government Reception at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern in West Springfield. The event provides a forum each year for attendees to meet with area legislators to make their voices heard. Left to right from top: Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, left, and Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen speak with an attendee; Carl Breyer Jr., left, managing partner of Park Place Realty, and Ed Sullivan, mayor-elect of West Springfield; Chris Thompson, left, vice president of Business Development for the Springfield Falcons, converses with state Rep. James Welch.(PHOTOS BY DRISCOLL PHOTOGRAPHY)

They Honor Us Whom We Honor
The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts recently celebrated the latest class of the Order of William Pynchon, the 98th annual awards event which honors distinguished civic service in the name of Springfield’s founder. Pictured, left, at the banquet held at Chez Josef, are 2013 Pynchon medalists, from left, Joan Kagan, president and CEO of Square One; Jean Caldwell, writer for the Boston Globe and American Baby magazine; Jean Gailun, advocate for reading education and the children of Springfield’s Kensington Avenue Magnet School; and Sirdeaner Walker, mother of 11-year-old bullying and suicide victim Carl Walker Hoover and now an advocate for bullying awareness, who was instrumental in the drafting and passage into law of the state’s 2011 anti-bullying bill. Right: from left, Susan Kline, chair of the Jewish Geriatric Services (JGS) board of directors; Sally Fuller from Cherish Every Child; Alta Stark, Pynchon trustee and event chair and director of marketing and public relations for JGS; Richard Halpern, JGS board member; Martin Baicker, president and CEO of JGS; and Susan Halpern, vice president of philanthropy for JGS. (PHOTOS BY ED COHEN)

Spa Night
SkinCatering, a massage and skin-care spa for men and women, recently celebrated its grand opening on the second floor of Tower Square in downtown Springfield. The spa, whose team is Skin-Safe Certified by the Melanoma Foundation of New England, offers body and facial services as well as yoga and numerous specials. An open house welcomed the public to indulge in a few of the most popular services, including chair massages, at left, with massage therapists Ariel Gignac, left, and Amy Pearson. Right, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, center, congratulates Leanne Sedlak, owner and massage therapist, to his right, at the ribbon cutting. Holding the ribbon, from left, are Sedlak’s husband Scott, roofing specialist for Adam Quenneville Roofing and Siding; Don Courtemanche, executive director of the Springfield Business Improvement District; Sarno; Sedlak; and Kim Brunton Auger, lead esthetician.

Editorial

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Opinion

Casino Saga Ends Badly in Palmer

There have certainly been a great many surprises in the two years since lawmakers passed legislation authorizing casino gambling in Massachusetts — developers getting in and dropping out; Holyoke’s mayor reversing himself, and then reversing himself again; residents saying ‘no’ in community after community; operators not passing muster with the Gaming Commission; competition for coveted licenses evaporating.
But perhaps the biggest surprise is just how badly things ended in Palmer (and they’re not over yet, apparently) between that community and Mohegan Sun.
Consider these remarks from Town Council member Paul Burns in a press release he sent to local media outlets late last month: “regretfully, I have to acknowledge that, as those on the anti-casino side indicated, Mohegan Sun cannot be trusted.” And, “Mohegan’s loss at the polls was not the result of a divided community, but the result of a conflicted casino company more focused on ensuring their financial viability and protecting their Connecticut property than they were on securing a license.” And, “good neighbors don’t work to impoverish their neighborhood. Good neighbors aren’t vindictive. Good neighbors care about more than their bottom line.”
It’s hard to imagine Burns, an ardent supporter of this project for as long as it’s been on the drawing board, offering such opinions two years ago or even two months ago. After all, Mohegan and Palmer have been linked in a project longer than any other community/developer tandem. Actually, we now need to use the past tense — Mohegan is now officially partners with Suffolk Downs in a bid to place a casino on track property in Revere — and this development is now clouded with intense controversy.
Indeed, since Palmer’s residents turned thumb’s down to Mohegan’s plans to build just off exit 8 of the turnpike early last month, the conspiracy theorists have been working overtime, and the really ugly side of the casino business has come into full view.
First, there were claims about a voting machine malfunctioning at a critical time, creating questions about the 93-vote defeat of the measure. Then, there were claims from pro-casino forces that the town clerk was making it difficult for gaming advocates to register to vote for the referendum, generating more questions about the tally.
But then, the focus shifted, from the vote and a planned recount (which upheld the original outcome) to the strong rumors that Mohegan Sun was talking with officials at Suffolk Downs well before the vote in Palmer.
And the conspiracy theories started multiplying. Indeed, the growing sentiment in Palmer is that Mohegan claimed to want a site in that community purely to minimize the impact on its facility in Connecticut (Palmer is readily accessible to people in the Nutmeg State via I-84), and that it stayed in the game in that town — it was the last developer to pay the licensing fee and draft a host-community agreement — just long enough to keep another casino operator from building at that location.
Those now quite angry with Mohegan Sun claim the company was either overconfident or ambivalent (or both, if that’s possible) going into the referendum vote and certainly didn’t work hard enough, or effectively enough, to change the eventual outcome. Further, the conspiracy theorists contend, Mohegan, by virtue of that referendum vote, has the best scenario possible — no casino in Palmer at all, and possibly one with the Mohegan Sun name on it just outside Boston.
Some are even saying that Mohegan tanked the Palmer vote to get pretty much everything it wanted.
We don’t know how much stock to put in all this, but things certainly don’t look good for Mohegan Sun right now — at least from a PR perspective and with regard to its five-year relationship with the struggling community of Palmer, which certainly seemed to buy into Mohegan’s rhetoric about a grand resort casino on the hill above the turnpike.
Maybe the best thing we can say at this point is that none of what is happening should actually be considered surprising. This is, after all, a business where greed and profits come before all else.

Editorial 2

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Opinion

Opportunity for UMass and Tower Square

On Nov. 26, UMass President Robert Caret and Gov. Deval Patrick made it official: the university will seek to create what’s being called a ‘satellite center’ in Tower Square in the heart of downtown.
Plans call for leasing 27,321 square feet of space on the second floor of the retail/office complex built in 1969 and known then as Baystate West, with the university also gaining rights to use 1,600 square feet on the first floor of the building. While the exact use of this space, from a programming perspective, is still to be finalized, the goal is to have this satellite facility in place for the start of the academic year next fall.
There were four proposals sent to the university for the center — the other three being space in 1350 Main St. (One Financial Plaza), square footage in Harrison Place (1391 Main St.), and space within the Peter Pan bus terminal. And while all of those locations might have worked, we believe the Tower Square site makes the most sense and offers the most potential for having real impact in the city’s central business district.
It offers the most visibility for the university, probably the most flexibility, and the best chance to spur economic-development activity. And it provides the best opportunity in many years to spark a rebirth at what was once a hub of activity and commerce in Springfield.
That was a long time ago, of course, a different era in many respects, but mostly those involving how people shop — and where. Those who have lived in this region for 40 years or more can certainly tell stories about how downtown Springfield was the place to be — especially on a Saturday morning — and Baystate West was the center of it all.
People could buy everything from clothes to books to sporting goods, and dine at one of several eateries in the complex.
Construction of first the Eastfield Mall and then the Holyoke Mall started to change the equation rapidly and profoundly, and by the late ’90s, most all of the retail space in what was by then Tower Square was vacant.
Some new signs of life have emerged in recent years. Several banks now have retail facilities in the complex, Cambridge College relocated into space on the first floor earlier this year, and there’s a successful restaurant operating in space along Main Street. Still, many of the shops are empty, their windows filled with artwork or promotional material for area arts organizations and nonprofits.
Bringing a UMass satellite office into this environment is not going to change things overnight. After all, there are already hundreds of people in the office tower and thousands working within a few blocks, and if this critical mass hasn’t changed the fortunes of Tower Square, how much can be expected from some students and perhaps a few dozen workers?
Well, more vibrancy can be expected, and perhaps more momentum for a landmark whose best days are clearly behind it, but that could — and hopefully will — play a prominent role in re-energizing Springfield’s downtown.
There’s no turning back the clock for Tower Square — it is very unlikely that it can ever again be what it was in the ’70s and early ’80s — but this planned UMass presence can help change the equation.
We don’t know what will develop at this satellite center, but for now, this looks like a smart choice for the university, the city, and its evolving downtown.

Building Permits

By BusinessWest Staff December 3, 2013

Building Permits Departments

The following building permits were issued during the month of November 2013.

CHICOPEE

Chicopee Mason Supply
451 McKinstry Ave.
$13,000 — New roof

Town of South Hadley
2 James St.
$173,000 — Re-roof

Urgent Care Center
1505 Memorial Dr.
$48,000 — Interior renovations

PALMER

Maple Leaf Distribution Services
14 Third St.
$7,000 — Install concrete pad for generator

SOUTH HADLEY

Suds Your Duds
14 Main St.
$27,000 — Repair car damage

SPRINGFIELD

Baystate Health
300 Carew St.
$73,000 — Renovate existing space

Castle House
3 Ames Hill Dr.
$3,000 — Exterior repairs

JCC
1160 Dickinson St.
$3,500 — Divide room for additional offices

Riverbend Medical
305 Bicentennial Ave.
$69,000 — Medical office renovations

Wallace House
105 Central St.
$15,000 — Exterior repairs

WEST SPRINGFIELD

A-C Motor Express
339 Bliss St.
$15,000 — New roof

David Boomi
76 Memorial Ave.
$12,000 — Renovate space for insurance office

Cantebury Woods Condominium
45 Cantebury Way
$3,000 — Repair damage to garage

Myron Court Apartments
24 Myron St.
$3,000 — Repair decking on commercial apartment building

Riverdale Shops
935 Riverdale St.
$245,000 — Renovations for new restaurant

Departments

Assessing the View From Downriver

Heartfelt Check

OnCore Performance

Some Things We’d Like to See in 2014

A Stern Challenge for the Region

Night at the Museum

Going Out in Style

Into the Next Phase

Maybe 2014 Will Be the Year

Deliberation Needed on Minimum Wage

Casino Saga Ends Badly in Palmer

Opportunity for UMass and Tower Square

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