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Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country.
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Landmark Medical Mission

Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country. ERCP is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat complex biliary diseases. Prior to this training, patients in Ghana with these conditions faced no alternative but invasive surgery, which is a far riskier path. By equipping local gastroenterologists with this advanced technique, Zakharia’s mission created an immediate and lasting impact on patient care across the region. In 2024, he traveled to Ghana to train local physicians in general gastrointestinal procedures, laying the groundwork for this more advanced, focused mission.

Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country.

Baystate Health announced that gastroenterologist Dr. Kais Zakharia recently completed a medical mission to Ghana, where he delivered the first-ever training in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) ever offered in the country.

 

 

Supporting Food Security

Westfield Bank recently announced a $10,000 donation to Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts in support of the organization’s Outrun Hunger 5K race and 1-mile fun walk on Sunday, May 17 in Forest Park in Springfield. Rachel’s Table addresses hunger by rescuing surplus food from local grocery stores, restaurants, farmers markets, and bakeries for delivery to food pantries, shelters, afterschool programs, and more. It also operates food purchasing programs and a gleaning program to connect communities with fresh local farm produce, and supports the development of community gardens. Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, Kara Wood and Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table, Kevin O’Connor of Westfield Bank, and Judy Yaffe of Rachel’s Table.

Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, Kara Wood and Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table, Kevin O’Connor of Westfield Bank, and Judy Yaffe of Rachel’s Table.

Pictured, from left: Daniel Marini of Westfield Bank, Kara Wood and Jodi Falk of Rachel’s Table, Kevin O’Connor of Westfield Bank, and Judy Yaffe of Rachel’s Table.

 

 

Medical Student Advocacy

Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate gathered at the Massachusetts State House on March 26 for PURCH on the Hill 2026, an initiative that equips future healthcare professionals with the skills and confidence to advocate for policies that address non-medical factors that greatly impact health. During their visit, students met with legislators and aides to champion two public health measures: Clean Slate legislation and increased funding for the Healthy Incentive Program (HIP). They urged lawmakers to help advance the Clean Slate bills sponsored by state Sens. Cindy Friedman and Adam Gomez that are currently in the Senate Ways & Means Committee, and to increase HIP funding for FY 2027.

Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate

Thirteen medical students from the Population-based Urban & Rural Health (PURCH) program at UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate

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BCDA Roundtable on Stewardship Best Practices

April 14: The Berkshire County Development Alliance (BCDA) will host a roundtable on stewardship best practices from 4:45 to 6 p.m. at Ventfort Hall, 104 Walker St., Lenox. This informal session will focus on practical, real-world approaches to donor stewardship. Attendees are invited to bring their favorite tips, tools, and tricks and participate in an open discussion to share resources, strategies, and ideas with fellow development professionals and volunteers from across Berkshire County. Seasoned fundraisers, those newer to development work, and people simply interested in strengthening relationships with supporters are invited to learn from peers, exchange ideas, and build community in a relaxed, collegial setting. The event is free to attend, and attendees are asked to bring a snack to share. RSVP by April 10 at [email protected].

 

Young Women Suited for Growth

April 18: Follow My Steps Foundation announced Young Women Suited for Growth, an inspiring college and career exploration event designed to equip young women with the confidence, resources, and connections needed to shape their future success. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bay Path University, and will bring together students, community leaders, and professionals committed to advancing opportunities for young women. Young Women Suited for Growth provides participants with firsthand exposure to college life, meaningful mentorship opportunities, and interactive sessions focused on leadership development, career exploration, and personal empowerment. Attendees will hear from current college students and guest speakers representing diverse professional backgrounds who will share real-world insights and guidance. Event highlights include college life exploration experiences, leadership and empowerment sessions, networking with students and community leaders, career pathway discussions, and scholarship and mentorship opportunities. The Follow My Steps Foundation is also launching a fundraising initiative to provide scholarships that remove financial barriers and allow participating young women to continue their educational journeys. Registration is limited. Participants may register at www.followmysteps.org.

 

Tri-State SHRM Conference

April 20-22: Human resource professionals from across New England will gather for the 2026 Tri-State SHRM Conference, a professional development event hosted at Mohegan Sun Resort & Casino in Uncasville, Conn. The conference theme — “Balancing Acts & Bold Moves: The Future of HR Starts Here!” — invites HR leaders to explore innovative ideas and strategies shaping the future of the workplace. Known as one of the region’s most dynamic HR events, the Tri-State SHRM Conference brings together hundreds of HR professionals for two and a half days of learning, networking, and inspiration. Attendees will engage in expert-led sessions, connect with industry partners, and explore emerging tools and solutions designed to help organizations succeed in today’s evolving workplace. The 2026 conference will feature educational sessions led by experienced HR practitioners and thought leaders covering key topics such as leadership, talent management, workplace culture, compliance, and the future of work. Participants will also have opportunities to build meaningful connections through networking events and visit the exhibition hall to discover innovative HR products and services. Registration is now open. For full conference details, speaker information, and registration, visit www.tristateshrm.com.

 

Free Community Shred & Share Day

May 8: The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley invites the community to a free Community Shred & Share Day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its new office located at 225 Park Ave., West Springfield. To celebrate its recent relocation to West Springfield, the association’s community service committee is hosting this rain-or-shine event to provide residents with a convenient and secure way to dispose of sensitive documents while supporting a meaningful local cause. Attendees are encouraged to bring old personal documents for secure, on-site shredding, helping protect against identity theft. In the spirit of giving back, attendees are also invited to donate non-perishable food items or other essentials to benefit Parish Cupboard, which supports local families in need. The event is free and open to the public, and no registration is required.

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Valley Jazz Voices Concert

Jan. 10: Valley Jazz Voices, the Pioneer Valley’s longest-running community jazz vocal ensemble, will present a winter concert at the BOMBYX Center for Arts & Equity, 130 Pine St., Florence, at 3 p.m. The program features selections from the Great American Songbook organized around themes of the sun, the moon, the weather and love, all arranged and sung in the group’s signature fourpart jazz harmonies. The singers will be accompanied by a jazz trio led by pianist Dylan Walter, with Wes Brown on bass and Dillon Pinard on drums. Directed by Jeff Olmsted and founded in 2014, Valley Jazz Voices performs swing, bebop, cool, Brazilian, and popinspired jazz arrangements and highlights local vocal talent and community musicianship. The concert is a familyfriendly matinee that offers familiar standards presented with fresh arrangements and warm ensemble sound. Tickets cost $20 in advance or at the door; children under 12 are free. For tickets and information, visit bombyx.live/events/valley-jazz-voices-winter-concert.

 

Brick Marketing Webinar

Jan. 21: Boston digital marketing agency Brick Marketing announced that it will host a free, 60-minute digital marketing webinar designed to help businesses, teams, and marketing professionals refine and strengthen their strategies for 2026. The webinar, “Strengthen & Refine Your 2026 Digital Strategy,” will take place at 3 p.m. and will provide a structured framework for evaluating performance, identifying areas for improvement, and aligning efforts for greater clarity and results in the year ahead. This session is built for organizations seeking a practical way to review their current marketing approach and ensure it supports their goals for 2026. Attendees will begin with a deep dive into how to evaluate business goals and identify the KPIs that matter most. The webinar will explain how to connect metrics with the sales cycle and how these insights inform smarter investment decisions across core marketing channels. Participants will then explore website design, branding, and usability assessment techniques. This includes understanding whether the website experience builds trust, supports conversions, and aligns with brand expectations. The segment will highlight how to identify high-impact improvements without unnecessary redesigns or complexity. A comprehensive review of content, SEO, and AI search performance will follow. The presentation will outline how to determine whether content communicates expertise, how search engines and AI systems interpret the brand, and where opportunities may be missed to rank, be recommended, or capture demand. As AI continues reshaping how people search and interact with information, these insights are increasingly critical. The webinar concludes with a structured evaluation framework for social media and email marketing. Attendees will learn how to assess engagement quality, audience alignment, campaign consistency, and email performance to determine which channels deserve increased focus, which require refinement, and which may no longer support business goals. For more information and to register, visit www.brickmarketing.com/webinars.

 

Penguin Plunge

Jan. 24: Amelia Park Children’s Museum announced the return of the Penguin Plunge, to be held at 1 p.m. at Hampton Ponds State Park in Westfield. Check-in begins at 11:30 a.m. Proceeds from the Penguin Plunge will benefit the museum. Through the years, participants and sponsors of the Penguin Plunge have helped to raise more than $370,000 to support Amelia Park Children’s Museum. There are several ways to help, including taking the plunge, becoming a sponsor, encouraging others to plunge, donating to a participant, or donating online. Plunge participants may join as an individual or as a team. Each participant pledges to raise a minimum of $75 from friends and family and is encouraged to collect as many sponsors as possible. Those under the age of 18 will receive a registration discount of $25. There are monetary prizes of ‘cold hard cash’ for the top three individuals or teams that raise the most money; $300 for first place, $200 for second place, and $100 for third place. A costume contest is part of the fun, and participants are encouraged to come dressed creatively. There will be prizes for best individual costume and best team costume. People may register in advance online or on the day of the event from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participants will receive a free 2026 Penguin Plunge T-shirt while supplies last. Sponsorship and donation opportunities, registration, and pledge forms are available at www.ameliaparkmuseum.org/penguin-plunge or can be picked up at the museum.

 

‘The Mission-Rich Experience Live’

Feb. 12-13: — Mission-Rich Academy will host its first-ever live intensive, “The Mission-Rich Experience Live,” bringing nonprofit leaders and micro-business owners from across the country to Western Mass. for a two-day, high-touch leadership intensive. Founded by LaTonia Monroe Naylor, a leadership strategist, author, and longtime regional leader, the intensive reflects more than an event — it represents decades of community-centered leadership. The two-day convening is designed to help mission-driven leaders strengthen funding access, build sustainable systems, and lead with clarity — particularly during a time of uncertainty. Attendance is intentionally limited to preserve depth of training, with participants leaving with proven frameworks, strategic clarity, and a practical plan they can begin implementing immediately. In addition to national participation, Mission-Rich Academy will award 10 leadership scholarships to cover full general admission for Springfield-based micro-businesses, supported through a community partnership with the Latino Economic Development Corp. (LEDC). Tickets are now available, with general admission and VIP options available. Because space is limited and pre-event bonus trainings are offered on a one-time basis, early registration is encouraged. Partnership and sponsorship opportunities are also available for organizations and businesses interested in supporting leadership development and long-term community impact. For event details and ticket information, visit www.missionrichexperience.com.

 

Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 27: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2026 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire their community. This year’s honorees are Al Picard as the Ernest Laflamme Jr. Citizen of the Year, HB Real Estate as Business of the Year, Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen & Pantry as Nonprofit of the Year, and Heather Leclerc at Volunteer of the Year. The 41st annual Shining Stars Gala takes place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights on Memorial Drive. Tickets cost $75 per person and are on sale now. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 594-2101.

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Halloween Mall-O-Ween

Oct. 30: Families and children of all ages are invited to Holyoke Mall’s annual Halloween Mall-O-Ween trick-or-treating event from 4 to 6 p.m. Participating mall retailers will be handing out candy throughout the center, making it an ideal destination for little ghouls and goblins to safely enjoy trick-or-treating. Attendees can also participate in a Social Media Costume Contest. Simply snap a photo while trick-or-treating at the mall, post it on Facebook and/or Instagram, follow and tag the mall @HolyokeMall, and use the hashtag #HolyokeMallHalloween2025. Contestants must be at least 18 years old. Winners will be announced on Nov. 3 and awarded prizes.

 

yWrite Conference

Nov. 1: The yWrite Podcast will host the 2025 yWrite Conference from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Agawam Senior Center, 954 Main St., Agawam. The theme of this year’s conference is “yWrite Your Story Your Way!” Open to beginner as well as experienced writers, this in-person, all-day conference will offer guidance on a variety of topics, from memoir writing to legacy letters. Workshops include “The Jazz of Contrapuntal Poetry,” “Finding Character Voices from Your Life,” “Getting an Audience & Building Buzz,” “Writing Nonfiction,” and “Successful Query Letters.” Lunch with the keynote speaker, veteran Western Mass. journalist G. Michael Dobbs, is included in the registration fee of $79. Register at www.y-write.com or at www.eventbrite.com. Save $10 with promo code WMASS413.

 

Friendsgiving Fundraiser

Nov. 3: The Iron Horse Music Hall will turn up the volume on community with the Friendship Band Friendsgiving Fundraiser, a music-fueled party with a purpose. Two local favorites, the Friendship Band and Soul Magnets, will take the stage to raise support for the performing arts at Whole Children and Milestones, programs of ServiceNet, where people with disabilities take center stage. The Friendship Band unites musicians with and without disabilities in a shared celebration of music’s power to connect. Over the past 10 years, it has built a loyal following with its mix of originals and covers, memorable collaborations with Yo La Tengo, and standout sets at Transformance at Look Park. Joining them is Valley funk powerhouse Soul Magnets. With a horn-heavy, nine-piece lineup and a setlist that slides from funk classics to neo-soul originals, the band has fired up crowds from the Green River Festival to the Drake and Millpond Live. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $30, including fees. Both seated and standing options are available (first come, first served). Accessible seating is available at (413) 200-0425 or [email protected]. Visit ironhorse.org to purchase tickets.

 

Next Gen Summit

Nov. 5: Six-Point Strategy announced the launch of its first Next Gen Summit, a one-day retreat designed for emerging leaders in family businesses. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Venture Way in Hadley. The summit is built around the unique challenges of succession and generational leadership. Next generation leaders have the difficult task of navigating the ‘in-between’ space, shaping the future of their companies while still carrying the weight of family legacy. Participants will gain tools, frameworks, and connections to help them lead with confidence and authenticity. The event will be facilitated by three leaders with deep expertise in family business, leadership, and strategy: Meghan Lynch, CEO of Six-Point Strategy; Ira Bryck, founder and longtime director of the UMass Amherst Family Business Center; and Joshua Hornick, director of the Hornick School for Coaching. Summit highlights include “Leadership Styles” (balancing authenticity with authority), “The Power of Being Different” (why differentiation matters more than excellence), “Family-ness in Business” (using family culture as a superpower), and “Peer Learning” (shared conversations on succession and influence). The program is designed to be intimate and highly interactive, ensuring every participant has a voice. Space is limited, and early bird registration is open through Oct. 3 at a discounted rate of $395. Standard tickets are $495. For more information or to register, visit sixpointstrategy.com/nextgensummit.

 

The Clutter Doctor Inc. 25th Anniversary Event

Nov. 5: Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman, founder of the Clutter Doctor Inc., a company that offers hands-on organizing services, announced a 25th anniversary celebration for the business, to be held from 4 to 7 p.m. at Next Level Cowork, 11 Herbert P. Almgren Dr., Agawam. The event will include light fare, refreshments, and 25th anniversary award presentations. RSVP to [email protected]. Hoffman is known for bringing humor, heart, and deep expertise to the often overwhelming topic of clutter. She has helped hundreds of clients go from chaos to calm by helping them clear physical and emotional space. Her childhood passion for organizing led to the creation of the Clutter Doctor Inc., an East Longmeadow-based business that has given her the opportunity to help clients get motivated to tackle clutter, understand the emotional side of ‘stuff,’ and learn how organization supports mental well-being. The Clutter Doctor was one of the first businesses of its kind in Western Mass.

 

Food Fest West

Nov. 13: The West of the River Chamber of Commerce announced the return of Food Fest West, a community culinary celebration, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Crestview Country Club in Agawam. This event showcases the region’s eateries, offering guests the opportunity to sample a wide variety of delicious dishes and vote for their favorite restaurant of the night. From savory bites to sweet treats, attendees will experience the best of Western Mass. cuisine, all under one roof. In addition to food, guests will enjoy a fun-filled evening featuring a silent auction, raffles, photo booth, and cash bar. It’s an ideal way to connect with friends, colleagues, and community members while supporting local businesses and restaurants. Tickets are available through the West of the River Chamber of Commerce. For tickets, restaurant participation, or sponsorship opportunities, visit www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

 

Women of Impact

Dec. 9: BusinessWest will celebrate its eighth annual Women of Impact cohort at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit www.businesswest.com/eventcalendar/womenof-impact-2025. The class of 2025, featured in this issue and at businesswest.com, includes Tara Brewster, vice president of Business Development and Director of Philanthropy at Greenfield Savings Bank; Tracy Friedenberg, executive director of Bacon Wilson, P.C.; Chelsea Kline, executive director of Cancer Connection; Ayanna Crawford, president of AC Consulting and Media Services; Rania Kfuri, vice president for Philanthropy, Sales, and Marketing at Glenmeadow; Angelina Ramirez, CEO of Stavros Center for Independent Living; Amanda Sanderson, executive director of Resilience Center of Franklin County; and Sarah Rose Stack, lecturer of Public Relations at UMass Amherst. The presenting sponsors are Country Bank and TommyCar Auto Group, and the partner sponsor is Bacon Wilson, P.C.

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Up Next Summit

Oct. 16: The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) announced the launch of the Up Next Summit, a first-time leadership event designed to empower, inspire, and connect the region’s rising professionals. This event will take place at MGM Springfield, and tickets are now on sale. Visit www.springfieldyps.com/upnext to reserve a spot. Designed to bring together emerging leaders for a day of workshops, keynote speakers, and high-impact conversations, Up Next will directly address the challenges faced by rising professionals and the leaders who champion their development. This one-day event will bring together professionals from across the region for an energizing mix of expert-led micro workshops, networking, and big-picture conversations with topics ranging from community impact to personal development. In addition, Up Next will feature dynamic keynote presentations from Jill Monson, founder of POP!more Confidence Coaching, and Michelle Wirth, founder of Feel Good Shop Local. Both speakers are known for their powerful insights on leadership, purpose-driven work, and community engagement.

 

Cancer Connection Harvest Dinner

Oct. 16: Cancer Connection’s annual Harvest Dinner will take place at Union Station in Northampton. The Harvest Dinner is one of Cancer Connection’s most important fundraisers, and bankESB’s support will help underwrite the costs of the event and allow the organization to raise more funds for its programs. This festive evening brings the Cancer Connection community together and raises critical funds to bring support groups, integrative therapies, and educational programs to more cancer patients and their caregivers. The event will include a cocktail hour, farm-to-table dinner, silent auction, and a program of speakers. Cancer Connection, the only independent cancer support center in the area, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 2000, Cancer Connection’s mission is to provide a haven where people with cancer and their loved ones can learn how to navigate the complicated cancer journey through one-to-one guidance, education, peer support, integrative therapies, and creative programs. Cancer Connection is the only cancer support center in Hampshire and Franklin Counties and draws additional participants from Hampden County and beyond. For more information on sponsorships and tickets for the Harvest Dinner, visit www.cancer-connection.org/special-events.

 

Healthcare Heroes Gala

Oct. 22: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News will celebrate this year’s eight Healthcare Heroes starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in the Sep. 15 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes the Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit at Mercy Medical Center; Areliz Barbosa, clinical assistant professor and senior project coordinator at Bay Path University; Andrea Bertheaud, clinical assistant professor at Elms College; Chrissy Humason, Nursing supervisor and Stroke coordinator at Baystate Noble Hospital; Linda Koh, assistant professor at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing at UMass Amherst; Cindy Leonard, Infusion manager at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center; Dr. Thomas Lincoln, physician and associate professor of Medicine at Baystate Health; and Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos, director of the Holyoke Medical Center Weight Management Program. Tickets cost $95, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com/healthcareheroes. Presenting sponsors include Baystate Health/Health New England and Elms College. Partner sponsors include Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center and Holyoke Medical Center.

 

Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time Fundraiser

Oct. 22: Berkshire Family & Individual Resources (BFAIR) invites the community to an evening of fine wine, food, and music at its upcoming fundraiser, Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Balderdash Cellars, 81 State Road, Richmond. The event, sponsored by Sourcepass, will feature wines paired with appetizers, charcuterie, and desserts by Pizza Trails. It will also feature a lively program including a silent auction, raffles, and live music performed by Brian Benlien. The evening’s proceeds will support BFAIR’s mission of providing quality, individualized services to people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injury. Tickets cost $100 per person and must be reserved by Oct. 8 at bit.ly/452LPRn.

 

EANE Fall Conference Events

Oct. 23: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced a conference, “Safety Leadership for Your Workplace,” taking place at the Marriott in Springfield. Attendees will experience a full day of presentations, including Dick Flynt from the National Safety Council, OSHA, certified safety professional Dan Williams, and the team from Protective Advanced Safety Services. Qualified Massachusetts employers can apply for reimbursement for conference fees using the MA Express Program. To learn more or register for these events, visit www.eane.org or email Allison Ebner at [email protected].

 

bankESB Shred Day

Oct. 25: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to a free shred day at its 241 Northampton St., Easthampton branch. No appointment is necessary. The events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. or until the truck is full. Residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements, bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and having them shredded them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

Springfield Chamber Players Opening Night Concert

Oct. 26: The Springfield Chamber Players (SCP) will launch their 2025-26 season at 52 Sumner at 3 p.m. Alexander Svensen, assistant principal bass of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, will perform works by Bach, Bartók, Dragonetti, and more. He will be joined by Romina Kostare, violinist with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and Patrick Berry, radio and TV personality, on select pieces. This will be the second season for the Springfield Chamber Players at 52 Sumner and will feature more musicians of the SCP in this five-concert series. Another series at the Westfield Athenaeum, as well as a partnership with the Springfield Youth Orchestras, are planned for this season.

 

Halloween Mall-O-Ween

Oct. 30: Families and children of all ages are invited to Holyoke Mall’s annual Halloween Mall-O-Ween trick-or-treating event from 4 to 6 p.m. Participating mall retailers will be handing out candy throughout the center, making it an ideal destination for little ghouls and goblins to safely enjoy trick-or-treating. Attendees can also participate in a Social Media Costume Contest. Simply snap a photo while trick-or-treating at the mall, post it on Facebook and/or Instagram, follow and tag the mall @HolyokeMall, and use the hashtag #HolyokeMallHalloween2025. Contestants must be at least 18 years old. Winners will be announced on Nov. 3 and awarded prizes.

 

Friendsgiving Fundraiser

Nov. 3: The Iron Horse Music Hall will turn up the volume on community with the Friendship Band Friendsgiving Fundraiser, a music-fueled party with a purpose. Two local favorites, the Friendship Band and Soul Magnets, will take the stage to raise support for the performing arts at Whole Children and Milestones, programs of ServiceNet, where people with disabilities take center stage. The Friendship Band unites musicians with and without disabilities in a shared celebration of music’s power to connect. Over the past 10 years, it has built a loyal following with its mix of originals and covers, memorable collaborations with Yo La Tengo, and standout sets at Transformance at Look Park. Joining them is Valley funk powerhouse Soul Magnets. With a horn-heavy, nine-piece lineup and a setlist that slides from funk classics to neo-soul originals, the band has fired up crowds from the Green River Festival to the Drake and Millpond Live. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $30, including fees. Both seated and standing options are available (first come, first served). Accessible seating is available at (413) 200-0425 or [email protected]. Visit ironhorse.org to purchase tickets.

 

Next Gen Summit

Nov. 5: Six-Point Strategy announced the launch of its first Next Gen Summit, a one-day retreat designed for emerging leaders in family businesses. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Venture Way in Hadley. The summit is built around the unique challenges of succession and generational leadership. Next generation leaders have the difficult task of navigating the ‘in-between’ space, shaping the future of their companies while still carrying the weight of family legacy. Participants will gain tools, frameworks, and connections to help them lead with confidence and authenticity. The event will be facilitated by three leaders with deep expertise in family business, leadership, and strategy: Meghan Lynch, CEO of Six-Point Strategy; Ira Bryck, founder and longtime director of the UMass Amherst Family Business Center; and Joshua Hornick, director of the Hornick School for Coaching. Summit highlights include “Leadership Styles” (balancing authenticity with authority), “The Power of Being Different” (why differentiation matters more than excellence), “Family-ness in Business” (using family culture as a superpower), and “Peer Learning” (shared conversations on succession and influence). The program is designed to be intimate and highly interactive, ensuring every participant has a voice. Space is limited, and early bird registration is open through Oct. 3 at a discounted rate of $395. Standard tickets are $495. For more information or to register, visit sixpointstrategy.com/nextgensummit.

 

 

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Pictured, from left: Officer Shawn Knox, Sgt. Mike Reed, West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, Chief of Police Jay Gearing, and Officer Joe Reed.
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Play Ball!

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $2,000 to the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts as part of the bank’s 2025 Community Giving Initiative. The donation will help the organization continue its mission of providing children with disabilities the opportunity to play baseball in a safe and supportive environment. 

Pictured, from left: Brian Feeley, Miracle League of Western Massachusetts board president; Kandy Tranghese, senior vice president and chief financial officer of Monson Savings Bank; and Ernie Fitzell, co-founder of the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts.

Pictured, from left: Brian Feeley, Miracle League of Western Massachusetts board president; Kandy Tranghese, senior vice president and chief financial officer of Monson Savings Bank; and Ernie Fitzell, co-founder of the Miracle League of Western Massachusetts.

 

 

Ready to Ride

Eastern States Exposition (ESE) recently gave a grant to the West Springfield Police Department to outfit two motorcycles with essential equipment, including computers, printers, cameras, and other traffic safety resources. This donation ensures that officers have the most-up-to-date tools to enforce the rules of the road and assist traffic during the 17 days of the Big E as well as year-round. 

Pictured, from left: Officer Shawn Knox, Sgt. Mike Reed, West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, Chief of Police Jay Gearing, and Officer Joe Reed.

Pictured, from left: Officer Shawn Knox, Sgt. Mike Reed, West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy, Chief of Police Jay Gearing, and Officer Joe Reed.

 

 

Supporting Seniors

bankESB recently donated $5,000 to the Belchertown Senior Center to support the purchase of a new van. The new vehicle, which features the bankESB logo, will help ensure local seniors have safe, accessible transportation to medical appointments, grocery stores, and community events. 

Pictured, from left: Alicia Austin of bankESB; Linda Zajakowski of the Belchertown Senior Citizen’s Center Assoc.; Kim Rossi of Belchertown Senior Center; David Small and Andrea Stadnioki of the Belchertown Senior Citizen’s Center Assoc.; and Jessica Langlois of Belchertown Senior Center.

Pictured, from left: Alicia Austin of bankESB; Linda Zajakowski of the Belchertown Senior Citizen’s Center Assoc.; Kim Rossi of Belchertown Senior Center; David Small and Andrea Stadnioki of the Belchertown Senior Citizen’s Center Assoc.; and Jessica Langlois of Belchertown Senior Center.

 

Back to School

Baystate Wing Hospital’s 2025 back-to-school supply drive to benefit children in the Palmer, Ware, and Quaboag Regional elementary public schools (pictured at left) was a success, as team members donated nearly 1,100 items, including individual items and boxes of items, such as pencils, 135 boxes of crayons, 270 notebooks, and 24 backpacks. Meanwhile, Baystate Noble Hospital employees organized a back-to-school supply drive to support the children and families of Westfield River Elementary School (pictured above). The month-long initiative concluded in late August.

Baystate Wing Hospital’s 2025 back-to-school supply drive to benefit children in the Palmer, Ware, and Quaboag Regional elementary public schools was a success, as team members donated nearly 1,100 items, including individual items and boxes of items, such as pencils, 135 boxes of crayons, 270 notebooks, and 24 backpacks

 

Baystate Noble Hospital employees organized a back-to-school supply drive to support the children and families of Westfield River Elementary School

 

Starting Young

More than 200 children and adults made their way through the Youth Party on Aug. 4 at Greylock’s Community Empowerment Center, part of Greylock’s Wealth Builders Youth SummerFest, a week-long series of events held Aug. 4-9, which ties into the credit union’s rebranding of youth members up to the age of 22, now called Wealth Builders, who have access to a range of products, services, and education that can help to bolster their financial wellness. Pictured above: a young Wealth Builder plays a financial game inside the Community Empowerment Center. Pictured at right: the Mogollón family enjoys the Youth Party on Aug. 4.

A young Wealth Builder plays a financial game inside the Community Empowerment Center

 

The Mogollón family enjoys the Youth Party on Aug. 4.

 

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Get Hired Job Fair

Sept. 18: Holyoke Mall invites job seekers and employers to participate in its upcoming Get Hired Job Fair from 1 to 4 p.m. on the lower level in Macy’s Court. Sponsored by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services, the Get Hired Job Fair connects local businesses with qualified candidates ready to join the workforce. Participating employers represent a wide range of industries and will conduct on-the-spot interviews for positions at all experience levels. This event is open to the public and free for job seekers, offering an opportunity to connect with potential employers and explore a variety of career opportunities throughout the region.

 

EANE Fall Conference Events

Sept. 25, Oct. 23: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced two upcoming conference events to support organizational learning in the New England region. HR Connect: Leading Change in a New Era will take place on Thursday, Sept. 25 at MGM Springfield. This conference invites human resources professionals and business leaders to learn more about HR best practices, innovations in compensation and benefits, and the new skills required for creating compliant people policies. Plus, that will be National HR Professionals week, and EANE is celebrating the many talents and contributions of HR professionals across the region. Safety Leadership for Your Workplace will take place on Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Marriott in Springfield. Attendees will experience a full day of presentations, including Dick Flynt from the National Safety Council, OSHA, certified safety professional Dan Williams, and the team from Protective Advanced Safety Services. Qualified Massachusetts employers can apply for reimbursement for conference fees using the MA Express Program. To learn more or register for these events, visit www.eane.org or email Allison Ebner at [email protected].

 

Party with 1 Purpose

Oct. 4: After a sold-out debut that earned national recognition from Breakthrough T1D as one of the Top New Fundraising Events of 2024, Party with 1 Purpose will return to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Chaired by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, the gala unites community leaders, local families, and businesses in support of Breakthrough T1D’s mission to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D). Guests will enjoy an evening on Center Court featuring live music, an energetic auction, inspiring stories from local T1D families, and opportunities to directly fund life-changing research. This year’s Fund a Cure will shine a spotlight on the Kouflie family and their son Braden, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 7. The Kouflies will share their journey of navigating the daily challenges of diabetes while holding onto hope for a cure, giving guests a personal look at why Breakthrough T1D’s research is so critical. Sponsorships and tickets are available at www.breakthrought1d.org/ctma/wmassgala2025.

 

Barks & Brews

Oct. 5: The 10th annual Barks & Brews event, presented by Dakin Humane Society, will take place at Fort Hill Brewery in Easthampton. The event will begin with a VIP exclusive preview hour from noon to 1 p.m., with general admission taking place from 1 to 3 p.m. VIP admission tickets, priced at $75, entitle holders to on-site parking, hors d’oeuvres served during the preview hour, a complimentary beer, and an event T-shirt. General admission tickets, priced at $35, include a complimentary beer. Parking is located on street and at the local school lot (a five-minute walk). Visit www.dakinhumane.org/barksandbrews to purchase tickets. All attendees of the event must be at least 21 years old. Guests are invited to bring crowd-friendly dogs on a non-retractable leash (retractable leashes are not allowed), and are asked not to bring strollers. Other event features will include a Halloween costume contest for dogs, a hot dog eating contest for dogs, a 50/50 raffle (ticket holders need not be present to win), a photo booth, nail trimming, dog baths, vendor booth shopping, and food trucks. Barks & Brews is an important annual fundraiser for Dakin, a 501(c)(3) organization. In previous years at Fort Hill, this event has generated about $30,000 for services and programs that help animals in need.

 

Real Estate Licensing Course

Oct. 6 to Nov. 12: The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will host a 40 hour, 14-class sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real estate salesperson license exam. Tuition costs $425 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328 or visit www.rapv.com.

 

Healthcare Heroes Gala

Oct. 22: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News will celebrate this year’s eight Healthcare Heroes starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in this issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes the Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit at Mercy Medical Center; Areliz Barbosa, clinical assistant professor and senior project coordinator at Bay Path University; Andrea Bertheaud, clinical assistant professor at Elms College; Chrissy Humason, Nursing supervisor and Stroke coordinator at Baystate Noble Hospital; Linda Koh, assistant professor at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing at UMass Amherst; Cindy Leonard, Infusion manager at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center; Dr. Thomas Lincoln, physician and associate professor of Medicine at Baystate Health; and Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos, director of the Holyoke Medical Center Weight Management Program. Tickets cost $95, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com/healthcareheroes. Presenting sponsors include Baystate Health/Health New England and Elms College. Partner sponsors include Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center and Holyoke Medical Center.

 

Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time Fundraiser

Oct. 22: Berkshire Family & Individual Resources (BFAIR) invites the community to an evening of fine wine, food, and music at its upcoming fundraiser, Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Balderdash Cellars, 81 State Road, Richmond. The event, sponsored by Sourcepass, will feature wines paired with appetizers, charcuterie, and desserts by Pizza Trails. It will also feature a lively program including a silent auction, raffles, and live music performed by Brian Benlien. The evening’s proceeds will support BFAIR’s mission of providing quality, individualized services to people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injury. Tickets cost $100 per person and must be reserved by Oct. 8 at bit.ly/452LPRn.

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Women of Impact Nominations

Through Sept. 4: BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for the eighth annual Women of Impact awards. Nominations for the Women of Impact class of 2025 are due by Thursday, Sept. 4. They can be submitted at businesswest.com/women-of-impact-nominations. In 2018, BusinessWest created the Women of Impact program as a way to honor women in the region who are making an impact and creating positive change. There are many different ways to do this. While nominees can hail from the world of business, they can also emerge from other realms, such as the nonprofit community, public service, law enforcement, education, social work, the mentorship community, a combination of these — in short, the program recognizes inspirational women on any level. For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

 

Discounted Big E Tickets

Through Sept. 10: Rocky’s Ace Hardware, one of the country’s largest family-owned Ace Hardware dealers with 50 locations in nine states, announced the return of its Big E ticket presale. Now through Sept. 10, customers can purchase one-day tickets to the Big E at discounted prices at select Rocky’s locations: $16 for adults and $10 for children. Beginning Sept. 11, tickets will still be available at participating stores, but at regular pricing. Participating locations include Agawam, East Longmeadow, Holden, Ludlow, Northborough, Palmer, South Hadley, Springfield, Westfield, and Worcester, as well as Stamford and Vernon, Conn.

 

Instant Issues Luncheon

Sept. 10: The World Affairs Council of Western Massachusetts will present its first Instant Issues lunchtime discussion of the 2025-26 program year with Javier Corrales, Dwight W. Morrow 1895 professor of Political Science and department chair of Political Science at Amherst College. He will present “Autocracy Rising: How Venezuela Transitioned to Authoritarianism” from noon to 1 p.m. at 1350 Main St., ninth floor gallery, in downtown Springfield. Corrales, a frequent World Affairs Council speaker, coined the term ‘autocratic legalism’ in 2015 to explain how Venezuela transitioned to authoritarianism by using the legal system to impose autocracy. Corrales is the author of many publications; his most recent book is Autocracy Rising: How Venezuela Transitioned to Authoritarianism, published in 2022. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Lunches can be reserved for $25 for members and $30 for non-members. Box lunches include a choice of sandwich (turkey, tuna, roast beef, or vegetarian), deli salad, cookie, chips, and soda or water. Attendees may bring their own lunch or choose not to eat. Registration deadline for a lunch provided is Friday, Sept. 5. Visit www.eventbrite.com/e/instant-issues-how-venezuela-transitioned-to-authoritarianism-tickets-1549642084189?aff=oddtdtcreator to register.

 

Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff Breakfast

Sept. 12: The Springfield Puerto Rican Parade board invites the community to its Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff Breakfast from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Wyckoff Country Club, located at 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. This celebratory breakfast gathering will honor the start of Hispanic Heritage Month with an uplifting morning of cultural pride, community connection, and inspirational messages. The event will include breakfast, music, a guest entertainment act, and an opportunity for networking among local leaders, professionals, and community members. Guests will hear from Springfield Puerto Rican Parade board members Ed Nuñez and Wilfredo Lopez, local community leaders, and Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia, who will offer remarks recognizing the importance of Puerto Rican heritage and the contributions of the broader Latino community in Western Mass. This kickoff sets the stage for the Springfield Puerto Rican Parade, which will take place on Sunday, Sept. 14 in downtown Springfield. Admission is $40 per ticket, with sponsorship-level options. For more information or to RSVP, email Jayne Melendez at [email protected].

 

Tim Welch Memorial Golf Tournament

Sept. 14: The Tim Welch Memorial Golf Tournament, Tee Off for Tim, will be held at East Mountain Country Club in Westfield. Check-in starts at 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at noon. Tim Welch, a Holyoke native who died unexpectedly in November, was a project manager for Tandem Mechanical. He had been a plumber for 20 years and was known for mentoring apprentice plumbers. Welch’s family is carrying on his legacy and paying tribute to his love of golf with a tournament that will raise funds for the Tim Welch Memorial Scholarship, to be awarded to a graduate of Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School who is pursuing a journeyman’s license in plumbing. As part of the day’s activities, golfers can try their swing at the Pipe Wrench Putt, using Welch’s pipe wrench to try to sink the ball. Sponsorships at all levels and raffle prizes are still being accepted. To donate or register a foursome, email [email protected] or visit the Tee Off for Tim Facebook page.

 

EANE Fall Conference Events

Sept. 25, Oct. 23: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced two upcoming conference events to support organizational learning in the New England region. HR Connect: Leading Change in a New Era will take place on Thursday, Sept. 25 at MGM Springfield. This conference invites human resources professionals and business leaders to learn more about HR best practices, innovations in compensation and benefits, and the new skills required for creating compliant people policies. Plus, that will be National HR Professionals week, and EANE is celebrating the many talents and contributions of HR professionals across the region. Safety Leadership for Your Workplace will take place on Thursday, Oct. 23 at the Marriott in Springfield. Attendees will experience a full day of presentations, including Dick Flynt from the National Safety Council, OSHA, certified safety professional Dan Williams, and the team from Protective Advanced Safety Services. Qualified Massachusetts employers can apply for reimbursement for conference fees using the MA Express Program. To learn more or register for these events, visit www.eane.org or email Allison Ebner at [email protected].

 

Party with 1 Purpose

Oct. 4: After a sold-out debut that earned national recognition from Breakthrough T1D as one of the Top New Fundraising Events of 2024, Party with 1 Purpose will return to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Chaired by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, the gala unites community leaders, local families, and businesses in support of Breakthrough T1D’s mission to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D). Guests will enjoy an evening on Center Court featuring live music, an energetic auction, inspiring stories from local T1D families, and opportunities to directly fund life-changing research. This year’s Fund a Cure will shine a spotlight on the Kouflie family and their son Braden, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 7. The Kouflies will share their journey of navigating the daily challenges of diabetes while holding onto hope for a cure, giving guests a personal look at why Breakthrough T1D’s research is so critical. Sponsorships and tickets are available at www.breakthrought1d.org/ctma/wmassgala2025.

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Pictured, from left: STCC President John Cook, volunteer dentist Dr. Michael Nardi, STCC faculty members Samantha Kelley and Darlene O’Brien, and volunteer dentist Dr. Paul Nardi Jr.
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Growing Together

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) partnered with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ Hadley Farm on May 30. In previous years, MBK employees helped by filling sandbags to secure tarps for weed prevention, spreading compost over cardboard to build two 30-foot-long plant beds, and constructing greenhouses that are now filled with vegetable plants. For a third consecutive year, tasks included planting tomato, lettuce, and basil plants and installing garden netting for young plant protection.

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) partnered with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ Hadley Farm on May 30

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) partnered with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts’ Hadley Farm on May 30

 

 

Community Dental Day

More than 100 people visited Springfield Technical Community College on May 3 for the seventh annual Community Dental Day, which offered free dental care to area residents who otherwise might not be able to afford it. Organized by STCC’s Dental Sciences Department in partnership with the Massachusetts Dental Society Foundation and the Valley District Dental Society, the event brought together volunteer dentists, dental assistants, and students to deliver free care. 

Pictured, from left: STCC President John Cook, volunteer dentist Dr. Michael Nardi, STCC faculty members Samantha Kelley and Darlene O’Brien, and volunteer dentist Dr. Paul Nardi Jr.

Pictured, from left: STCC President John Cook, volunteer dentist Dr. Michael Nardi, STCC faculty members Samantha Kelley and Darlene O’Brien, and volunteer dentist Dr. Paul Nardi Jr.

 

 

Rousing Finale

The Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras (SSYO) held a season finale concert on May 18 with more than 140 young musicians on stage at Springfield Symphony Hall. The event began with a debut performance of the newest ensemble of the Springfield Symphony, Springfield Youth Voces, under the direction of conductor Amanda Johnson. The concert featured performances by three SSYO groups: the Springfield Youth Camerata, a beginner strings group led by Capella Sherwood; the Springfield Youth Sinfonia, an intermediate ensemble conducted by Matt Bertuzzi; and the Springfield Youth Orchestra, an advanced ensemble conducted by Jonathan Lam. 

The Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras

 

The Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras

The Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras

 

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Pictured: students are joined by Janice Humason, director of Case Management & Housing Placements at Friends of the Homeless (center); Professor Suzanne Boniface (third from right); and Sabine Macris Klein, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Westfield State (far right).
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Course of Action

This spring, Clinical & Support Options’ Friends of the Homeless program received a $1,001.80 donation from students in the Advanced Public Relations class in Westfield State University’s Communication Department. As part of their coursework, the class created and implemented a campaign to raise awareness and funds for Friends of the Homeless. 

Pictured: students are joined by Janice Humason, director of Case Management & Housing Placements at Friends of the Homeless (center); Professor Suzanne Boniface (third from right); and Sabine Macris Klein, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Westfield State (far right).

Pictured: students are joined by Janice Humason, director of Case Management & Housing Placements at Friends of the Homeless (center); Professor Suzanne Boniface (third from right); and Sabine Macris Klein, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Westfield State (far right).

 

 

Community Grants

More than 100 nonprofit leaders representing 40 organizations across the Pioneer Valley came together on May 13 at Florence Bank’s annual Customers’ Choice Community Grants Program reception to network and accept a total of $150,000 in awards. The annual event took place at the Garden House in Look Park in Florence. The grant program was founded in 2002, and, through it, Florence Bank customers are invited to vote for their favorite local nonprofit in hopes it will receive a share of grant funding. 

Pictured: representatives from the bank and Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Holyoke, which received a $2,368 grant.

Pictured: representatives from the bank and Therapeutic Equestrian Center in Holyoke, which received a $2,368 grant.

 

 

Reps for Rescue

Through their Reps for Rescue fundraiser in April, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni and Bree and Sam Wiater, owners of CrossFit Rift Valley, raised $2,400 for the Foundation for TJO Animals. The event included a series of workout sessions for all skill levels, as well as local vendors, food trucks, and raffles. The funds raised support much-needed veterinary care, rehabilitation, enrichment materials, and services for local animals on a journey to find their forever homes. 

Pictured, from left: Gulluni, Bree and Sam Wiater, and Foundation for TJO Animals Executive Director Janna Brown. (Photo by Chris Marion Photography)

Pictured, from left: Gulluni, Bree and Sam Wiater, and Foundation for TJO Animals Executive Director Janna Brown. (Photo by Chris Marion Photography)

 

 

Back to Square One

Freedom Credit Union recently announced a $7,500 donation to Square One’s “Back to Square One” capital campaign for its new campus. Since its launch two years ago, the campaign has succeeded in securing more than $13 million to build a new early learning and family support center in Springfield’s South End, at the same location where Square One once stood prior to the 2011 tornado. 

Pictured, from left: Kris Allard of Square One, Charlene Smolkowicz of Freedom Credit Union, Dawn DiStefano of Square One, and Glenn Welch of Freedom Credit Union.

Pictured, from left: Kris Allard of Square One, Charlene Smolkowicz of Freedom Credit Union, Dawn DiStefano of Square One, and Glenn Welch of Freedom Credit Union.

 

Shelter from Financial Storms

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $5,000 to the Salvation Army’s Ware/Monson Area Housing Assistance Program. This contribution will directly assist local individuals and families experiencing housing instability. The donation was presented by Dan Moriarty (right), Monson Savings Bank president and CEO, and Heather Arbour (left), vice president BSA/Fraud officer and Compliance manager, and longtime Salvation Army volunteer, to Wilfred Leslie (center), Service Extension director for the Salvation Army’s Massachusetts Division. The funds will be used to provide assistance with rent, utilities, and emergency housing needs.

The donation was presented by Dan Moriarty (right), Monson Savings Bank president and CEO, and Heather Arbour (left), vice president BSA/Fraud officer and Compliance manager, and longtime Salvation Army volunteer, to Wilfred Leslie (center), Service Extension director for the Salvation Army’s Massachusetts Division.

The donation was presented by Dan Moriarty (right), Monson Savings Bank president and CEO, and Heather Arbour (left), vice president BSA/Fraud officer and Compliance manager, and longtime Salvation Army volunteer, to Wilfred Leslie (center), Service Extension director for the Salvation Army’s Massachusetts Division.

 

Welcome to Westfield

Leaders from Baystate Health, Baystate Noble Hospital, and other community partners recently gathered at Baystate Noble Hospital to welcome new President and Chief Operating Officer Brandon Okezie. Peter Banko, Baystate Health’s president and CEO, and Westfield Mayor Michael McCabe introduced Okezie, who, prior to this appointment, served as associate administrator at George Washington University Hospital, a 385-bed, tertiary-care, academic medical center located in downtown Washington, D.C. 

Pictured, from left: McCabe, Okezie, and Banko.

Pictured, from left: McCabe, Okezie, and Banko.

 

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For more events, or to submit your upcoming events, visit BusinessWest’s event calendar online: https://businesswest.com/eventcalendar

 

Free Music Fridays

Through Sept. 5: Summer in New England starts early this year as live music returns to MGM Springfield with the Free Music Fridays Concert Series. Every Friday through Sept. 5, some of the area’s most popular bands and national artists will perform on the Plaza at MGM Springfield in the city’s South End, starting at 7:30 p.m. (weather permitting), with the exception of the July 4 performance, which will begin at 6 p.m. Local favorites such as Trailer Trash, Back in Black, Malado!, and Aquanett will return to the stage, along with newcomers including Neon 90’s, Green Day tribute Dookie, the music of Billy Joel and Elton John with Billy and the Jets, and Springsteen rockers Tramps Like Us. MGM Springfield will continue its partnership with White Lion Brewing to provide guests with a wide selection of craft beer during each Free Music Fridays concert. The series will also feature local food trucks, including Dev’s Mac N Eats, Batch Ice Cream, Wake the Dead Donuts, Jeannie’s Weenies, and the return of MGM Springfield’s Guac This Way.

 

Bountiful Bowls

June 10: Rchel’s Table of Western Massachusetts announced its biennial signature event, Bountiful Bowls: Growing Community Together, taking place at 5:30 p.m. at the Springfield Marriott Hotel. This powerful evening will honor the resilience and generosity of the local community in the fight against food insecurity. Hosted by Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno (honorary chair) and emcee Barry Kriger, the event will spotlight the transformative work of Rachel’s Table and celebrate leaders who have made a profound impact in Western Mass. Honorees include Ellen Gold, Change Agent Award; Jill and Jim Stewart, Community Connectors Award; and the employees and community of Westfield Bank, Leading with Community: Newcomer Award. Rachel’s Table continues to combat food insecurity across Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. In 2024 alone, the organization delivered more than 925,000 pounds of healthy food; sponsored 57 gleans, harvesting more than 50,000 pounds of fresh produce from local farms; and supported 10 community gardens led by youth and seniors. With hunger affecting nearly half of households in Hampden County and over one-third in neighboring counties, Bountiful Bowls raises critical funds and awareness for Rachel’s Table’s programs that deliver immediate relief and build long-term food security. Visit www.feedwma.org to learn more and register for tickets or donate.

 

40 Under Forty

June 19: BusinessWest will celebrate the 19th annual 40 Under Forty Gala at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The class of 2025 is profiled in the April 28 issue and at businesswest.com. The presenting sponsor of this year’s 40 Under Forty is PeoplesBank. Partner sponsors include Live Nation Premium, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. Health New England is the presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award, the winner of which will be announced at the gala. Tickets cost $125. If they are not sold out, they may be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/40-under-forty-event-gala.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Fees range according to age. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com.

 

Whip City Animal Sanctuary Golf Tournament

June 28: Whip City Animal Sanctuary will host its fifth annual golf tournament fundraiser at St. Anne’s Country Club, 781 Shoemaker Lane, Feeding Hills. The tournament starts at 12:30 p.m. with dinner following at 5:30 p.m. There will be contests, raffle prizes, a free T-shirt for the first 50 players, and a cash bar. The registration fee is $125 per player and includes a cart and dinner following the tournament. The deadline to register is June 18. For additional details and forms, visit Whip City Animal Sanctuary’s website or Facebook page, or email Sonia Henderson at [email protected]. Whip City Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides a caring, safe, and long-term home for abandoned, rescued, and surrendered farm animals. It pays for all veterinary care, food, and shelter for these animals and is open for public visiting hours on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to noon.

 

Feed the Kids Charity Golf Tournament

July 14: Feed the Kids, a local nonprofit focused on fighting childhood hunger, is seeking sponsors and donated auction items for its eighth annual Feed the Kids Charity Golf Tournament at Springfield Country Club. The event, which will include an online auction open to all, benefits local organizations that work to ensure children do not go hungry, including Square One, the Holyoke Weekend Backpack Program, Pioneer Valley Powerpacks, and Team No Kid Hungry. Local individuals and businesses can also support the cause by donating items or services for the silent auction portion of the event. The online auction will be open to the community for bids beginning on July 1 and will end on July 14, the day of the golf tournament. For more information or to sponsor the event, visit feedthekidsgolf.com and click ‘Register Now.’ To donation auction items, email Kadushin at [email protected].

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On April 21, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni’s ninth annual Hoop Up Springfield Basketball Tournament & Summer Job Fair brought together more than 150 attendees from across Hampden County for a day of athletic competition, career exploration, and community connection at American International College
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Shoot, Score, Get a Job

On April 21, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni’s ninth annual Hoop Up Springfield Basketball Tournament & Summer Job Fair brought together more than 150 attendees from across Hampden County for a day of athletic competition, career exploration, and community connection at American International College. Youth basketball teams competed in a fast-paced 3-on-3 tournament, while others participated in a cheerleading clinic led by local professionals. At the job fair, more than a dozen local employers offered summer job opportunities to high-school students.

On April 21, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni’s ninth annual Hoop Up Springfield Basketball Tournament & Summer Job Fair brought together more than 150 attendees from across Hampden County for a day of athletic competition, career exploration, and community connection at American International College

On April 21, Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni’s ninth annual Hoop Up Springfield Basketball Tournament & Summer Job Fair brought together more than 150 attendees from across Hampden County for a day of athletic competition, career exploration, and community connection at American International College

 

 

Rebuilding Healthy Neighborhoods

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $10,000 to Revitalize Community Development Corp. in support of its 33rd #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild event on April 26 at Calhoun Park in Springfield. #GreenNFit brings together hundreds of volunteers to transform multiple homes in a single day. This year, more than 20 Monson Savings Bank team members rolled up their sleeves to work alongside more than 700 community volunteers on the project, which impacted 11 homes, the Miracle House, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts, and the park itself.

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $10,000 to Revitalize Community Development Corp. in support of its 33rd #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild event on April 26 at Calhoun Park in Springfield.

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $10,000 to Revitalize Community Development Corp. in support of its 33rd #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild event on April 26 at Calhoun Park in Springfield.

 

New Space, Same Mission

On May 1, Girls Inc. of the Valley unveiled its newly renovated program space to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of all girls and alumni leading up to Girls Inc. Week 2025 and Girls Inc. Together – Day of Giving. Girls Inc. of the Valley is encouraging the community to support it in addressing a critical issue facing youth today: mental health. Guests at the event also heard from award-winning children’s book author and keynote speaker Lesléa Newman.

Pictured: Girls Inc. of the Valley Executive Director Suzanne Parker (back row, center) and members of the board of directors. (Photo by Hillary Lynn Photography)

Pictured: Girls Inc. of the Valley Executive Director Suzanne Parker (back row, center) and members of the board of directors. (Photo by Hillary Lynn Photography)

 

Foster Care Awareness

In recognition of Foster Care Awareness Month in May, All Our Kids Inc. (AOK) launched a campaign aimed at raising awareness of the unique challenges faced by foster families and the state of foster care in Western Mass. As part of those efforts, All Our Kids hosted an open house on May 7. Marianna Litovich (pictured second from right, with AOK board members) founded the nonprofit and has grown it over the past decade as an organization dedicated to building community, providing resources, and increasing public awareness of the foster care system while encouraging active community involvement. (Photo by Hillary Lynn Photography)

All Our Kids hosted an open house on May 7. Marianna Litovich (pictured second from right, with AOK board members) founded the nonprofit and has grown it over the past decade as an organization dedicated to building community, providing resources, and increasing public awareness of the foster care system while encouraging active community involvement. (Photo by Hillary Lynn Photography)

All Our Kids hosted an open house on May 7. Marianna Litovich (pictured second from right, with AOK board members) founded the nonprofit and has grown it over the past decade as an organization dedicated to building community, providing resources, and increasing public awareness of the foster care system while encouraging active community involvement. (Photo by Hillary Lynn Photography)

 

 

Honoring a Community Champion

Springfield Partners for Community Action honored Paul Bailey for his 24-year tenure as the organization’s leader on May 3 at the Sheraton in Springfield. Bailey officially retired on Jan. 31. Under his leadership, Springfield Partners increased revenue and funding by more than $4 million, and he oversaw the development and implementation of many new services. In 2024, Springfield Partners celebrated 60 years of serving more than 7,000 area residents each year through its various programs, which include home and energy services, income tax assistance, money management, transportation, veterans’ services, and scholarships.

Springfield Partners for Community Action honored Paul Bailey for his 24-year tenure as the organization’s leader on May 3 at the Sheraton in Springfield

Springfield Partners for Community Action honored Paul Bailey for his 24-year tenure as the organization’s leader on May 3 at the Sheraton in Springfield

 

 

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For more events, or to submit your upcoming events, visit BusinessWest’s event calendar online: https://businesswest.com/eventcalendar

 

Free Music Fridays

b Summer in New England starts early this year as live music returns to MGM Springfield with the Free Music Fridays Concert Series. Every Friday through Sept. 5, some of the area’s most popular bands and national artists will perform on the Plaza at MGM Springfield in the city’s South End, starting at 7:30 p.m. (weather permitting), with the exception of the July 4 performance, which will begin at 6 p.m. Local favorites such as Trailer Trash, Back in Black, Malado!, and Aquanett will return to the stage, along with newcomers including Neon 90’s, Green Day tribute Dookie, the music of Billy Joel and Elton John with Billy and the Jets, and Springsteen rockers Tramps Like Us. MGM Springfield will continue its partnership with White Lion Brewing to provide guests with a wide selection of craft beer during each Free Music Fridays concert. The series will also feature local food trucks, including Dev’s Mac N Eats, Batch Ice Cream, Wake the Dead Donuts, Jeannie’s Weenies, and the return of MGM Springfield’s Guac This Way.

 

Walk to Cure Arthritis

June 1: The Arthritis Foundation announced that the Western Massachusetts Walk to Cure Arthritis will take place at Stanley Park in Westfield. Funds raised through donations to the Walk to Cure Arthritis will support the foundation’s ability to fund scientific research and continue to provide services and resources to the arthritis community. Walk to Cure Arthritis celebrates the community of arthritis patients of all ages, their caregivers, and everyone in the movement to conquer the disease. Ashley Scott is this year’s young adult walk honoree. She will be celebrated for her perseverance in her battle with arthritis and her strong support of the foundation’s mission. In addition, the following people will be honored: Grace Malave, juvenile idiopathic arthritis youth honoree, and Bill Squires, rheumatoid arthritis adult honoree. Residents can register and begin fundraising for the Western Massachusetts Walk to Cure Arthritis and learn more about the event by visiting www.walktocurearthritis.org/westernma or calling Hannah Hergenrather at (781) 312-9635.

 

Holyoke Paper Festival

June 7: The inaugural Holyoke Paper Festival is set to bring a one-day celebration of art, paper, and place to downtown Holyoke at the De La Luz Soundstage, 114 Race St. This new event celebrates Holyoke’s unique identity as the Paper City, once producing an estimated 80% of the writing paper used in the U.S. during the late 1800s. Today, artists and community members continue to be inspired by Holyoke’s history of innovation, its vibrant arts scene, and its powerful connection to the Connecticut River and the land of the Pocomtuc, Agawam, and Nonotuck peoples. Festival attendees can look forward to a full day of programming including a fine art exhibition, interactive workshops, guest speakers, local tours, and more, all highlighting the legacy and future of paper as a creative medium. Entries to the art exhibition have been received from artists across the country, underscoring Holyoke’s national significance in paper and printmaking culture. The Holyoke Paper Festival is made possible by support from MassDevelopment, the Holyoke Local Cultural Council, Holyoke Community College, and local business and property owners. To learn more about the festival or to get involved as a sponsor, volunteer, or donor, visit www.holyokepaperfestival.com for the latest updates and details.

 

Melinda Rosenblatt Lecture

June 8: The Yiddish Book Center will host its annual Melinda Rosenblatt Lecture at 2 p.m., featuring Aaron Lansky, the center’s founder and longtime president. In what will be his final public talk as president, Lansky will reflect on the improbable beginnings of the center, its evolution over 45 years, and his hopes for the future under the direction of longtime executive director Susan Bronson. The lecture will be followed by a celebratory reception. It is free and open to the public, with both in-person and livestream viewing options available. For more information and to register, visit yiddishbookcenter.org/rosenblatt. Lansky founded the Yiddish Book Center in 1980, when he took what he thought would be a two-year leave of absence from graduate school to recover endangered Yiddish books. Through the years, the Yiddish Book Center has evolved into an internationally renowned cultural and educational center, sharing Yiddish language, literature, and culture with new audiences. Noteworthy initiatives include educational programs for learners of all ages, fellowship programs, an oral history project, a publishing imprint, and a textbook that has transformed Yiddish-language learning. Lansky’s talk on June 8 will be a culmination of his decades of work building and leading the center and a chance to reflect on the journey with the community that has supported it.

 

40 Under Forty

June 19: BusinessWest will celebrate the 19th annual 40 Under Forty Gala at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The class of 2025 is profiled in the April 28 issue and at businesswest.com. The presenting sponsor of this year’s 40 Under Forty is PeoplesBank. Partner sponsors include Live Nation Premium, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. Health New England is the presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award, the winner of which will be announced at the gala. Tickets cost $125. If they are not sold out, they may be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/40-under-forty-event-gala.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Fees range according to age. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com.

 

Feed the Kids Charity Golf Tournament

July 14: Feed the Kids, a local nonprofit focused on fighting childhood hunger, is seeking sponsors and donated auction items for its eighth annual Feed the Kids Charity Golf Tournament at Springfield Country Club. The event, which will include an online auction open to all, benefits local organizations that work to ensure children do not go hungry, including Square One, the Holyoke Weekend Backpack Program, Pioneer Valley Powerpacks, and Team No Kid Hungry. Local individuals and businesses can also support the cause by donating items or services for the silent auction portion of the event. The online auction will be open to the community for bids beginning on July 1 and will end on July 14, the day of the golf tournament. For more information or to sponsor the event, visit feedthekidsgolf.com and click ‘Register Now.’ To donation auction items, email Kadushin at [email protected].

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Coffee & Connections

May 16: The Chamber of Greater Easthampton will hold its second Coffee & Connections of the year from 8 to 9 a.m. at its WorkHub on Union co-working space at 33 Union St., Easthampton. Registration is complimentary and open to all business, organizational, and community leaders; however, registration is required due to limited registrations available. For more information or to register, visit the chamber’s events calendar at www.easthamptonchamber.org or email [email protected].

 

Shred Days

May 17, 31: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free Shred Days at local offices. No appointment is necessary. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at the following locations: May 17 at the 770 Main St., Agawam office (in partnership with the Parish Cupboard, which will be collecting food donations), and May 31 at the 241 Northampton St., Easthampton office (two trucks will be at this event). Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document-destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

413 Women’s Health Connect

May 21: Living Local 413 announced the launch of 413 Women’s Health Connect, the first official program under its new Hot Topics initiative, an innovative series designed to bring people together around issues Western Mass. cares about. The event will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Carriage House at the Barney Estate in Springfield. The program’s primary sponsor and featured speaker at the first event is Robin Suave of Baystate Ob/Gyn Group Inc. 413 Women’s Health Connect is a multi-faceted approach to improving women’s wellness and strengthening community bonds. The program features three in-person events per year across Western Mass., an active online discussion board at 413online.com to continue conversations and share resources, and a new podcast series, “413 Biz Buzz,” exploring Hot Topics in greater depth and featuring local experts and community voices. Visit community.livinglocal413.org/event/413-womens-health-connect to RSVP for the first event.

 

Walk to Cure Arthritis

June 1: The Arthritis Foundation announced that the Western Massachusetts Walk to Cure Arthritis will take place at Stanley Park in Westfield. Funds raised through donations to the Walk to Cure Arthritis will support the foundation’s ability to fund scientific research and continue to provide services and resources to the arthritis community. Walk to Cure Arthritis celebrates the community of arthritis patients of all ages, their caregivers, and everyone in the movement to conquer the disease. Ashley Scott is this year’s young adult walk honoree. She will be celebrated for her perseverance in her battle with arthritis and her strong support of the foundation’s mission. In addition, the following people will be honored: Grace Malave, juvenile idiopathic arthritis youth honoree, and Bill Squires, rheumatoid arthritis adult honoree. Residents can register and begin fundraising for the Western Massachusetts Walk to Cure Arthritis and learn more about the event by visiting www.walktocurearthritis.org/westernma or calling Hannah Hergenrather at (781) 312-9635.

 

40 Under Forty

June 19: BusinessWest will celebrate the 19th annual 40 Under Forty Gala at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The class of 2025 is profiled in the April 28 issue and at businesswest.com. The presenting sponsor of this year’s 40 Under Forty is PeoplesBank. Partner sponsors include Live Nation Premium, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. Health New England is the presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award, the winner of which will be announced at the gala. Tickets cost $125. If they are not sold out, they may be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/40-under-forty-event-gala.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Fees range according to age. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com.

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from left: BHN Chief Operating Officer Jessica Deflumer, Senior Vice President Tony Boswell, and Senior Vice President Jennifer Doutre
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Celebrating 50 Years of Fun

Kamp for Kids, a summer day camp for children and young adults with and without disabilities, recently held a successful Golf FUN-raiser event at Max’s Swing Lounge in Springfield, raising $30,000 to support the future of the camp, which is a program of Behavioral Health Network (BHN), and celebrating 50 years of inclusive camp experiences for children of all abilities.

from left: BHN Chief Operating Officer Jessica Deflumer, Senior Vice President Tony Boswell, and Senior Vice President Jennifer Doutre

from left: BHN Chief Operating Officer Jessica Deflumer, Senior Vice President Tony Boswell, and Senior Vice President Jennifer Doutre

 

from left: BHN Director of Facilities DeJuan Brown, state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez, and Springfield City Councilor Malo Brown

from left: BHN Director of Facilities DeJuan Brown, state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez, and Springfield City Councilor Malo Brown

 

camper Zah-Mecca takes a swing

camper Zah-Mecca takes a swing

 

Rebuilding Healthy Neighborhoods

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $10,000 to Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) in support of its 33rd #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild event on April 26 at Calhoun Park in Springfield. One of Revitalize CDC’s most impactful annual events, #GreenNFit brings together hundreds of volunteers to transform multiple homes in a single day. This year, more than 20 Monson Savings Bank team members rolled up their sleeves to work alongside more than 700 community volunteers on the project, which impacted 11 homes, the Miracle House, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts, and the park itself.

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $10,000 to Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) in support of its 33rd #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild event on April 26 at Calhoun Park in Springfield.

Monson Savings Bank recently donated $10,000 to Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) in support of its 33rd #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild event on April 26 at Calhoun Park in Springfield.

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Annual Age of Excellence Award Nominations

Through June 15: Do you know someone who is redefining what it means to be over 60? Building on the success of the inaugural awards in 2024, Glenmeadow announced the opening of nominations for the Age of Excellence Awards: Celebrating Success over 60. This event honors older adults in the local community who embody the vigor, purpose, and contributions that come with age and experience. Nominations are now open for individuals who have made a significant impact in their communities after age 60. Whether pursuing new professional endeavors, serving their communities, or showing extraordinary perseverance and excellence in other areas of life, these individuals deserve to be celebrated. Nominations may be submitted online at glenmeadow.org. Hard copies of the nomination form are available at the concierge desk at Glenmeadow, or a PDF may be downloaded from the event page and sent to Age of Excellence Awards, 24 Tabor Crossing, Longmeadow, MA 01106. A panel of community leaders will select the honorees, who will be recognized at the Age of Excellence Awards ceremony on Wednesday, Sept. 3 at Springfield Country Club. This inspiring event will bring together honorees, their families, friends, and supporters to recognize their achievements. Tickets are available for purchase at weblink.donorperfect.com/ageofexcellence.

 

U.S. Foreign Policy Discussion

April 29: The World Affairs Council will present Kavita Khory, Ruth Lawson professor of Politics and Carol Hoffmann Collins director of the McCulloch Center for Global Initiatives at Mount Holyoke College, who will address “Emerging Powers and US Foreign Policy: Implications for Global Governance” at an Instant Issues brown-bag discussion at noon in the ninth-floor gallery of 1350 Main St. in downtown Springfield. A longtime member and friend of the council, Khory teaches courses at Mount Holyoke on comparative and international politics, South Asia, and migration. She has written on topics covering South Asian politics, foreign policy, and diaspora politics. The cost is $5 for World Affairs Council members and $10 for non-members. High-school and undergraduate students can attend for free. To register online with a credit card, visit wacwestma.org, or call the World Affairs Council at (413) 733-0110.

 

Pioneer Valley Conference for Women

May 1: The fourth annual Pioneer Valley Conference for Women will be held in person from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel. Sponsors include Liberty Bank, Westfield Savings Bank, M&T Bank, and YMCA of Western Massachusetts. Xiomara Albán DeLobato will serve as emcee for the conference. As vice president and chief of staff for the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, she works to facilitate growth and development of the region’s economy. She is also an active member of numerous boards, including Girls Inc. of the Valley, Veritas Prep Charter School in Springfield, and others. Keynote speakers are Krystal Say, co-founder of the Hyouman Experience and owner of SWEAT Power Yoga, and Dr. Jacqueline Johnson, who serves as chief Facilities Expansion and Sustainability officer at Caring Health Center and is also a faculty member at Bay Path University, teaching both undergraduate and graduate courses. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from 30 local experts on 10 panels throughout the morning and afternoon. Visit sheslocal.org/pioneer-valley-conference-for-women to see the different panel topics available, and for more information about the conference.

 

Eat, Drink, & Be Holyoke

May 1: The Holyoke Rotary Club announced that Eat, Drink, & Be Holyoke, its premier tasting fundraiser and silent auction, will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the Holyoke Council on Aging & Senior Center and will include live music performed by the Earls & Pearls. The event will feature food prepared by Amedeo’s, Fame, Pic’s Pub, Rusty’s Place, and Sumo. Beverage tastings will be provided by Quality Beverage and Wine Haus. Tasting samples will include craft beer, seltzers, canned cocktails, and wine. Tickets cost $50 and can be purchased by visiting edbh2025.eventbrite.com. Proceeds will go toward supporting Rotary projects, mostly within the Holyoke Rotary district of Holyoke, South Hadley, and Granby. Ongoing Holyoke Rotary projects include providing several annual scholarships, providing food for those in need through community collaborations, and fostering community engagement with free summer concerts, as well as funding international clean-water initiatives.

 

Feast in the East

April 29: The ERC5 announced that Feast in the East 2025 will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Starting Gate at Great Horse, 128 Wilbraham Road, Hampden. This event will bring together more than 40 local vendors, including restaurateurs, confectioners, breweries, and wineries, creating an atmosphere for networking and community engagement. Attendees can indulge in diverse culinary experiences while enjoying the view overlooking the Pioneer Valley. PeoplesBank is the premier sponsor for this event, and Square One is the spotlighted nonprofit organization for this year’s Feast in the East. In an effort to be more impactful and mindful, event organizers have also welcomed back Rachel’s Table, which will ensure that food not served during the event will be collected and distributed to local organizations and shelters. For more information, to purchase tickets, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.erc5.com.

 

Elms College Experiential Learning Showcase

May 2: Elms College students will showcase their real-world experiences gained through internships, research, service work, and travel opportunities at the annual Experiential Learning Showcase from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This program is open to all, with no need to register. At Elms College, 95% of students participate in internships, research, and service opportunities through the Dolores Donlin Noonan ’39 Experiential Learning Program. Students have explored opportunities with many local organizations, including Way Finders, Polish Discovery Center, Holyoke Soldiers Home, Springfield Thunderbirds, Hampden County’s Sheriff’s Office, Care Center, and the office of state Rep. Shirley Arriaga.

 

Link to Libraries Gala

May 8: Link to Libraries announce its biennial gala, an evening that celebrates the organization’s transformative impact in the community while raising vital funds to ensure children have access to the books and programming they deserve. This year’s gala, taking place at the Basketball Hall of Fame, will feature a Swifty-themed evening inspired by Taylor Swift’s celebrated Eras Tour. Guests will enjoy an elegant night filled with cocktails, dinner, an auction, and the opportunity to connect with others passionate about the power of reading to transform lives. All proceeds from the gala go directly to Link to Libraries, a nonprofit committed to fostering literacy by providing books and programming for children in underserved communities. Tickets cost $90 per person, or $250 for VIP tickets that include a pre-gala VIP cocktail reception. Tickets are available at www.linktolibraries.org.

 

‘The Journey’

May 10: Graduate Women in Business, in collaboration with the UMass Fine Arts Center, will present “The Journey,” a charity gala at the UMass Campus Center Auditorium that celebrates the talent, transitions, and triumphs of women. The evening will be filled with music, dance, an auction benefiting Girls Inc. of the Valley and the Care Center in Holyoke, and thought-provoking panel discussions with influential women who have made significant impacts in their fields, as well as a motivating, empowering keynote address. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For details, contact Melisha Williams at [email protected] or [email protected].

 

Coffee & Connections

May 16: The Chamber of Greater Easthampton will hold its second Coffee & Connections of the year from 8 to 9 a.m. at its WorkHub on Union co-working space at 33 Union St., Easthampton. Registration is complimentary and open to all business, organizational, and community leaders; however, registration is required due to limited registrations available. For more information or to register, visit the chamber’s events calendar at www.easthamptonchamber.org or email [email protected].

 

Shred Days

May 17, 31: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free Shred Days at local offices. No appointment is necessary. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at the following locations: May 17 at the 770 Main St., Agawam office (in partnership with the Parish Cupboard, which will be collecting food donations), and May 31 at the 241 Northampton St., Easthampton office (two trucks will be at this event). Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document-destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Fees range according to age. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com.

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Alumni Achievement Award Nominations

Through April 23: When BusinessWest launched its 40 Under Forty program in 2007, it did so to identify rising stars across our region — individuals who were excelling in business and through involvement within the community — and celebrate their accomplishments. In 2015, BusinessWest announced a new award, one that builds on the foundation upon which 40 Under Forty was created. It’s called the Alumni Achievement Award. As the name suggests, it is presented to the 40 Under Forty honoree who, in the eyes of an independent panel of judges, has most impressively continued and built upon his or her track record of accomplishment. Candidates must be from 40 Under Forty classes prior to the year of the award — in this case, classes 2007 to 2024. Past winners include: 2024: Meghan Rothschild, president of Chikmedia (40 Under Forty class of 2011); 2023: Amy Royal, founder and CEO, Royal Law Firm (class of 2009); 2022: Anthony Gleason III, president and co-founder, Gleason Johndrow Companies (class of 2010); 2021: Anthony Gulluni, Hampden County district attorney (class of 2015); 2020: Carla Cosenzi, president, TommyCar Auto Group (class of 2012), and Peter DePergola, director of Clinical Ethics, Baystate Health (class of 2015); 2019: Cinda Jones, president, W.D. Cowls Inc. (40 Under Forty class of 2007); 2018: Samalid Hogan, regional director, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (class of 2013); 2017: Scott Foster, attorney, Bulkley Richardson (class of 2011), and Nicole Griffin, owner, ManeHire (class of 2014); 2016: Dr. Jonathan Bayuk, president, Allergy & Immunology Associates of New England (class of 2008); 2015: Delcie Bean, president, Paragus Strategic IT (class of 2008). The 2024 Alumni Achievement Award finalists will be profiled in the June 9 edition of BusinessWest, and the honoree will be announced at the 40 Under Forty gala on June 19. The nomination form is available at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/alumniachievementaward. Only nominations submitted to BusinessWest on this form will be considered. The deadline is Wednesday, April 23. For your convenience, a list of the past 40 Under Forty classes may be found at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty.

Health New England is the presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award.

 

Bowl for Kids’ Sake

April 19, 26, May 3: The youth empowerment nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Massachusetts (BBBSWM) invites the public to help fund programs that support kids in Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampden counties through the annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake (BFKS) fundraiser. Each of the three events will run from 10 a.m. to noon on the following Saturdays: April 19 K&M Bowling in Pittsfield, April 26 at Shaker Bowl in East Longmeadow, and May 3 at French King Bowling in Erving. Those interested in supporting BBBSWM’s mission can visit secure.qgiv.com/event/bbbswm2025bfks to register their team and get tips on how to engage their own networks to join in supporting their bowling team.

 

Technology Recycling Drive

April 22: For individuals and companies looking to get rid of their old computer equipment and do some good, Paragus IT is hosting a technology recycling drive to promote sustainability on Earth Day to benefit Dakin Humane Society. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., those looking to recycle old, unwanted computers, laptops, printers, and other equipment can drop them off at Paragus, 122 Russell St., Hadley. Paragus will prepare them for reuse or make sure they’re properly disposed of. In exchange, they will collect $5 per piece of equipment, all of which will benefit Dakin Humane Society. Some items may have additional fees. More details about those items — and other information about the recycling drive — can be found at paragusit.com/earthday.

 

UMass 5K Dash & Dine

April 26: UMass Dining Services invites the community to participate in its 14th annual UMass 5K Dash & Dine, with the goal to promote health and wellness at UMass Amherst while raising funds for the Amherst Survival Center. Over the past 13 years, UMass Dining has raised more than $50,000 that has been donated to the Amherst Survival Center. Check-in at the Southwest Horseshoe will begin at 9 a.m. At 10 a.m., a free Fun Run begins for children 8 years old and under. At 11 a.m., the race begins, followed by an awards ceremony at 11:30 a.m. and lunch at noon in the Berkshire Dining Commons. The race fee is $15 for all Five College students, $25 for UMass Amherst faculty and staff, and $30 for the general public. Children 8 and under may participate free of charge. The race fee includes registration and lunch. Donations can be made and participants can register at runumass.com/about. Online registration will end April 24. Walk-up registration will be available on race day.

 

 

Feast in the East

April 29: The ERC5 announced that Feast in the East 2025 will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Starting Gate at Great Horse, 128 Wilbraham Road, Hampden. This event will bring together more than 40 local vendors, including restaurateurs, confectioners, breweries, and wineries. PeoplesBank is the premier sponsor for this event, and Square One is the spotlighted nonprofit organization for this year’s Feast in the East. In an effort to be more impactful and mindful, event organizers have also welcomed back Rachel’s Table, which will ensure that food not served during the event will be collected and distributed to local organizations and shelters. For more information, to purchase tickets, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.erc5.com.

 

Link to Libraries Gala

May 8: Link to Libraries announce its biennial gala, an evening that celebrates the organization’s transformative impact in the community while raising vital funds to ensure children have access to the books and programming they deserve. This year’s gala, taking place at the Basketball Hall of Fame, will feature a Swifty-themed evening inspired by Taylor Swift’s celebrated Eras Tour. Guests will enjoy an elegant night filled with cocktails, dinner, an auction, and the opportunity to connect with others passionate about the power of reading to transform lives. All proceeds from the gala go directly to Link to Libraries, a nonprofit committed to fostering literacy by providing books and programming for children in underserved communities. Tickets cost $90 per person, or $250 for VIP tickets that include a pre-gala VIP cocktail reception. Tickets are available at www.linktolibraries.org.

 

‘The Journey’

May 10: Graduate Women in Business, in collaboration with the UMass Fine Arts Center, will present “The Journey,” a charity gala at the UMass Campus Center Auditorium that celebrates the talent, transitions, and triumphs of women. The evening will be filled with music, dance, an auction benefiting Girls Inc. of the Valley and the Care Center in Holyoke, and thought-provoking panel discussions with influential women who have made significant impacts in their fields, as well as a motivating, empowering keynote address. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For details, contact Melisha Williams at [email protected] or [email protected].

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Fees range according to age. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com.

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Women’s Leadership Conference

April 3: Bay Path University announced that award-winning journalist, author, and television personality Hoda Kotb will be the keynote speaker at the 28th Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC), taking place in Springfield. Most well-known as the former co-anchor of NBC News’ Today and co-host of Today with Hoda & Jenna, Kotb joined Today as a co-host of the fourth hour in 2008, alongside Kathie Lee Gifford, and recently retired from the show after 17 years, during which time she received several Emmy Awards for her work. A New York Times bestselling author, Kotb has written eight books and continues to host the popular podcast “Making Space with Hoda Kotb.” The WLC will also feature lunchtime speaker Amelia Rose Earhart, a pilot, author, and reporter who, inspired by her namesake, circumnavigated the globe in a single-engine aircraft. Earhart has 15 years of experience as a helicopter and breaking-news reporter in Denver and Los Angeles, has sent numerous teenage girls to flight school during her 10-year tenure as president of the Fly with Amelia Foundation, and hosts a tech podcast focused on the future of AI in business. This year’s conference will also feature breakout sessions led by business experts and coaches, including Shira Abel, a lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley, who taps into her experience working with companies such as Siemens, Samsung, AXA, and Allianz to speak about navigating the complexities of modern business and the impact biases and expectations have on success. In addition, the WLC will welcome Jackie Glenn, former chief diversity officer at Fortune 500 EMC Corp. and founder and CEO of Glenn Solutions, where she partners with executives to reimagine organizational practices and implement strategies such as cultural assessments, executive coaching, and advisory services to foster thriving, innovative workplaces. An instructor at Harvard’s Division of Continuing Education, Glenn continues her mission to equip leaders with the tools to succeed through her work in the school’s Women Leaders: Advancing Together program. For further information on the conference, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket sales, visit baypath.edu/wlc.

 

Sip, Bid & Boogie

April 3: The WillPower Foundation, a source of support for Western Mass. individuals and families with different abilities, announced its new spring fundraiser, Sip, Bid & Boogie. This event will take place at the Jupiter Club in Easthampton mill building, offering an evening of entertainment, community, and philanthropy. Sip, Bid & Boogie will be a swanky soirée featuring handcrafted cocktails from the Jupiter Club, elevated bites by Blue Door Gatherings, live music by Mister Brilliant, and a silent art auction showcasing a diverse collection of artwork from artists of all abilities. The event will be emceed by the legal duo Ryan Alekman and Rob DiTusa, corporate donors who have supported WillPower since its inception. They will guide guests through an evening of fun, surprises, and a celebration of community. The art auction is a reflection of the WillPower Foundation’s mission to celebrate unique talents and different abilities. The collection will feature paintings, sculptures, digital art, mixed media, and more. Tickets cost $60 per person, $100 for two tickets, or $400 for a party pack of eight. Sponsorship opportunities range from $250 to $15,000, offering local businesses the opportunity to align their brand with a nonprofit making a tangible impact. Additionally, the WillPower Foundation is accepting donations of artwork for the silent auction. To purchase tickets, donate art, or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.willpowerfoundation.org or email [email protected].

 

‘An Evening Under the Stars’

April 4: Tapestry Health announced “An Evening Under the Stars,” its 2025 gala, set to take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. This inspiring evening will bring together community leaders, supporters, and advocates to celebrate and raise critical funds for Tapestry Health’s life-saving healthcare services. Guests will enjoy a night of dining, entertainment, and a silent auction, all in support of Tapestry Health’s mission to provide accessible sexual and reproductive healthcare, harm-reduction services, and WIC nutrition programs to residents across all four counties of Western Mass. For more information or to reserve a spot, visit onecau.se/tapestrygala or email [email protected].

 

‘Get Unstuck and Start Moving Forward’

April 7: Got goals? Lost momentum? Get unstuck with the help of an accountability partner by attending the Dulye Leadership Experience (DLE) in-person meetup in downtown Pittsfield. “Get Unstuck and Start Moving Forward” is the theme of this interactive program, which will help attendees gain new perspectives and approaches to identify what’s stopping them from achieving an important goal; take small, actionable steps to make changes; and keep progress going. There is no fee to attend, but registration is required by visiting www.surveymonkey.com/r/hjhlmdh. The program runs from 5:30 to 6:45 p.m. at the DLE office, 100 North St., Suite 402, Pittsfield. DLE meetups are designed to grow who and what attendees know in a fun and supportive environment. The program features breakouts and group discussions for meeting professionals from diverse companies and organizations.

 

WTrades Career Expo

April 9: River East School to Career will present WTrades, Your Present is Your Future, a skilled trades career-exploration day, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Students in grades 9-12 from school districts in the Greater Springfield and Greater Palmer areas are invited to attend. This program aims to showcase strategic, exploratory resources and hands-on opportunities to about 200 student attendees to enrich their knowledge about prospects for future employment and how to achieve a skilled trades career. River East is seeking skilled trade exhibitors, including those with heavy machinery, to participate in the WTrades career fair. Exhibitors will have the opportunity to speak directly with students, sharing insights about their careers and the skills required to succeed in their industries. By attending WTrades, exhibitors will connect directly with students to inform them about job opportunities and training programs that can lead to fulfilling careers. The skilled trades industry offers a broad range of career opportunities, from construction, mechanical, and industrial to healthcare, technical, and advanced manufacturing trades. However, many students are unaware of these possibilities or the training and/or educational paths available, such as apprenticeships, community colleges, technical institutes, vocational programs, and online training. For more information on the event, visit rivereaststc.org/wtrades or call Amy Scribner, partnership director, at (413) 283-5051 or [email protected].

 

Difference Makers Gala

April 9: Tickets are now on sale for BusinessWest’s 17th annual Difference Makers awards gala at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in the Feb. 17 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, are Jennie Adamczyk, executive director of Providence Ministries; Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services; Andrea Bordenca, managing partner of Generative Leadership Consulting; Mychal Connolly, CEO of Stand Out Truck; John Delaney, director of Ride to Remember; John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; the Michael J. Dias Foundation; and Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. They can be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/difference-makers-tickets. The 17th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkhart Pizzanelli, the Royal Law Firm, TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

 

Bowl for Kids’ Sake

April 19, 26; May 3: The youth empowerment nonprofit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Massachusetts (BBBSWM) invites the public to help fund programs that support kids in Berkshire, Franklin, and Hampden counties through the annual Bowl for Kids’ Sake (BFKS) fundraiser. Each of the three events will run from 10 a.m. to noon on the following Saturdays: April 19 K&M Bowling in Pittsfield, April 26 at Shaker Bowl in East Longmeadow, and May 3 at French King Bowling in Erving. Those interested in supporting BBBSWM’s mission can visit secure.qgiv.com/event/bbbswm2025bfks to register their team and get tips on how to engage their own networks to join in supporting their bowling team. BBBS creates connections between children (‘littles’) with qualified and vetted mentors (‘bigs’) in the community to create fulfilling relationships.

 

Technology Recycling Drive

April 22: For individuals and companies looking to get rid of their old computer equipment and do some good, Paragus IT is hosting a technology recycling drive to promote sustainability on Earth Day to benefit Dakin Humane Society. From 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., those looking to recycle old, unwanted computers, laptops, printers, and other equipment can drop them off at Paragus, 122 Russell St., Hadley. Paragus will prepare them for reuse or make sure they’re properly disposed of. In exchange, they will collect $5 per piece of equipment, all of which will benefit Dakin Humane Society. Some items may have additional fees. More details about those items — and other information about the recycling drive — can be found at paragusit.com/earthday.

 

UMass 5K Dash & Dine

April 26: UMass Dining Services invites the community to participate in its 14th annual UMass 5K Dash & Dine, with the goal to promote health and wellness at UMass Amherst while raising funds for the Amherst Survival Center. UMass Dining’s focus is on quality ingredients and meals, customer service, student health and wellness, customization options, and appreciation of global influences. Over the past 13 years, UMass Dining has raised more than $50,000 that has been donated to the Amherst Survival Center. Check-in at the Southwest Horseshoe will begin at 9 a.m. At 10 a.m., a free Fun Run begins for children 8 years old and under. At 11 a.m., the race begins, followed by an awards ceremony at 11:30 a.m. and lunch at noon in the Berkshire Dining Commons. The race fee is $15 for all Five College students, $25 for UMass Amherst faculty and staff, and $30 for the general public. Children 8 and under may participate free of charge. The race fee includes registration and lunch. Donations can be made and participants can register at runumass.com/about. Online registration will end April 24. Walk-up registration will be available on race day.

 

Feast in the East

April 29: The ERC5 announced that Feast in the East 2025 will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Starting Gate at Great Horse, 128 Wilbraham Road, Hampden. This event will bring together more than 40 local vendors, including restaurateurs, confectioners, breweries, and wineries, creating an atmosphere for networking and community engagement. Attendees can indulge in diverse culinary experiences while enjoying the view overlooking the Pioneer Valley. PeoplesBank is the premier sponsor for this event, and Square One is the spotlighted nonprofit organization for this year’s Feast in the East. In an effort to be more impactful and mindful, event organizers have also welcomed back Rachel’s Table, which will ensure that food not served during the event will be collected and distributed to local organizations and shelters. For more information, to purchase tickets, or to learn about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.erc5.com.

 

Link to Libraries Gala

May 8: Link to Libraries announce its biennial gala, an evening that celebrates the organization’s transformative impact in the community while raising vital funds to ensure children have access to the books and programming they deserve. This year’s gala, taking place at the Basketball Hall of Fame, will feature a Swifty-themed evening inspired by Taylor Swift’s celebrated Eras Tour. Guests will enjoy an elegant night filled with cocktails, dinner, an auction, and the opportunity to connect with others passionate about the power of reading to transform lives. All proceeds from the gala go directly to Link to Libraries, a nonprofit committed to fostering literacy by providing books and programming for children in underserved communities. Tickets cost $90 per person, or $250 for VIP tickets that include a pre-gala VIP cocktail reception. Tickets are available at www.linktolibraries.org.

 

‘The Journey’

May 10: Graduate Women in Business, in collaboration with the UMass Fine Arts Center, will present “The Journey,” a charity gala at the UMass Campus Center Auditorium that celebrates the talent, transitions, and triumphs of women. The evening will be filled with music, dance, an auction benefiting Girls Inc. of the Valley and the Care Center in Holyoke, and thought-provoking panel discussions with influential women who have made significant impacts in their fields, as well as a motivating, empowering keynote address. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For details, contact Melisha Williams at [email protected] or [email protected].

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Fees range according to age. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com.

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For more events, or to submit your upcoming events, visit BusinessWest’s event calendar online: https://businesswest.com/eventcalendar

 

94.7 WMAS Radiothon for Baystate Children’s Hospital

March 4-5: The public is invited to join in the fun at the 24th annual 94.7 WMAS Radiothon for Baystate Children’s Hospital at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on March 4 and 5, between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. Broadcasting live from the 94.7 WMAS studios, the Kellogg Krew will connect listeners with stories from patients, team members, and community members that are filled with hope, miracles, and the impact of Baystate Children’s Hospital. Among the many stories shared will be that of Emilia Cecchetelli, the 2025 Children’s Miracle Network ambassador for Baystate Children’s Hospital. Four-year-old Emilia was born at 26 weeks and spent 143 days in the Davis Neonatal Intensive Care Unit fighting chronic lung disease and craniosynostis, a condition that causes problems with normal brain and skull growth. Listeners will hear how she’s doing today and how the care at Baystate Children’s Hospital played a critical role in her life. Attendees of the Radiothon will be able to have their photo taken on the red carpet, make a donation, and get a sneak peek of the Kellogg Krew broadcasting live. There are many ways to donate. Listeners can visit wmaskids.com, text WMASKIDS to 51555, or call the Lia Auto Group Phone Bank at (413) 794-1111 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on March 4 and 5.

 

Bingo Night Fundraiser

March 21: The Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce announced its Handbag & Hand Tool Bingo Night fundraiser will take place at 6:30 p.m. at AMVETS Post 74 in Three Rivers. Doors open at 6 p.m. The chamber will produce 10 bingo rounds, each with a grand prize featuring one of seven designer handbags or one of three premium tools up for grabs. Tickets can be purchased on qhma.com. The registration fee is $40 per person and includes 10 bingo cards, a bingo dauber, snack platters, a bonus raffle ticket, and a cash bar. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce and its ongoing mission to assist its more than 200 member businesses succeed and grow with programs and initiatives throughout the year.

 

Second Chance Auction Gala

March 29: Second Chance Animal Services will host its 26th annual Auction Gala at the AC Marriott in Worcester. This is Second Chance’s most important fundraiser of the year, raising critical funds to help provide life-saving services to more than 56,000 pets in need. The evening will feature hundreds of silent auction items, raffles, and a small but exclusive live auction offering one-of-a-kind experiences. All proceeds will support Second Chance’s mission to transform the lives of pets by providing affordable veterinary care, keeping pets with their families, and finding loving homes for animals in need. Tickets are on sale now, and seating is limited, so early reservations are encouraged. Businesses and individuals can also support the event by sponsoring, which includes recognition in event materials, highlighting their commitment to supporting pets in need. Donations to the auction are another way to get involved. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or donate auction items, visit www.secondchanceanimals.org/dinner-auction or email [email protected].

 

Women’s Leadership Conference

April 3: Bay Path University announced that award-winning journalist, author, and television personality Hoda Kotb will be the keynote speaker at the 28th Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC), taking place in Springfield. Most well-known as the former co-anchor of NBC News’ Today and co-host of Today with Hoda & Jenna, Kotb joined Today as a co-host of the fourth hour in 2008, alongside Kathie Lee Gifford, and recently retired from the show after 17 years, during which time she received several Emmy Awards for her work. A New York Times bestselling author, Kotb has written eight books and continues to host the popular podcast “Making Space with Hoda Kotb.” The WLC will also feature lunchtime speaker Amelia Rose Earhart, a pilot, author, and reporter who, inspired by her namesake, circumnavigated the globe in a single-engine aircraft. Earhart has 15 years of experience as a helicopter and breaking-news reporter in Denver and Los Angeles, has sent numerous teenage girls to flight school during her 10-year tenure as president of the Fly with Amelia Foundation, and hosts a tech podcast focused on the future of AI in business. This year’s conference will also feature breakout sessions led by business experts and coaches, including Shira Abel, a lecturer at the University of California, Berkeley, who taps into her experience working with companies such as Siemens, Samsung, AXA, and Allianz to speak about navigating the complexities of modern business and the impact biases and expectations have on success. In addition, the WLC will welcome Jackie Glenn, former chief diversity officer at Fortune 500 EMC Corp. and founder and CEO of Glenn Solutions, where she partners with executives to reimagine organizational practices and implement strategies such as cultural assessments, executive coaching, and advisory services to foster thriving, innovative workplaces. For further information on the conference, sponsorship opportunities, and ticket sales, visit baypath.edu/wlc.

 

Difference Makers Gala

April 9: Tickets are now on sale for BusinessWest’s 17th annual Difference Makers awards gala at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in this issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, are Jennie Adamczyk, executive director of Providence Ministries; Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services; Andrea Bordenca, managing partner of Generative Leadership Consulting; Mychal Connolly, CEO of Stand Out Truck; John Delaney, director of Ride to Remember; John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; the Michael J. Dias Foundation; and Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. They can be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/difference-makers-tickets. The 17th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkhart Pizzanelli, the Royal Law Firm, TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

 

Link to Libraries Gala

May 8: Link to Libraries announce its biennial gala, an evening that celebrates the organization’s transformative impact in the community while raising vital funds to ensure children have access to the books and programming they deserve. This year’s gala, taking place at the Basketball Hall of Fame, will feature a Swifty-themed evening inspired by Taylor Swift’s celebrated Eras Tour. Guests will enjoy an elegant night filled with cocktails, dinner, an auction, and the opportunity to connect with others passionate about the power of reading to transform lives. All proceeds from the gala go directly to Link to Libraries, a nonprofit committed to fostering literacy by providing books and programming for children in underserved communities. Tickets cost $90 per person, or $250 for VIP tickets that include a pre-gala VIP cocktail reception. Tickets are available at www.linktolibraries.org.

 

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40 Under Forty Nominations

Through Feb. 27: BusinessWest is currently accepting nominations for the 40 Under Forty class of 2025. The deadline for nominations is Feb. 27. Launched in 2007, the program recognizes rising stars in the four counties of Western Mass. Nominations, which should be detailed in nature, should list an individual’s accomplishments within their profession as well as their work within the community. Nominations can be completed online at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form. Nominations will be weighed by a panel of judges, and the selected individuals will be profiled in the April 28 issue of BusinessWest and honored at the 40 Under Forty Gala in June.

 

Young Women in Leadership Award Applications

Through March 1: Applications for the 2025 Young Women in Leadership Award are available from the Zonta Club of Quaboag Valley. A local recipient will receive a $1,000 award, funded by the Zonta Club of the Quaboag Valley, and will be entered for the district award. The district recipient will be eligible for a $5,000 award from Zonta International. According to Zonta Club Scholarship Chair Patricia Pupek, the goal of the Leadership Award is to encourage young women to participate in leadership positions by recognizing a young woman’s commitment to the volunteer sector, evidence of volunteer leadership achievements, and dedication to building a better world for women and girls. Applications can be obtained from high-school guidance counselors or at zontaqv.org/scholarships and must be submitted electronically with supporting documentation no later than March 1. Applicants must be between the ages of 16 and 19 on April 1, studying at a secondary school, college, or university in a Zonta district. Questions can be directed to [email protected].

 

Chicopee Chamber Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 28: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire the community. This year’s honorees are AJ Crane, owner of A. Crane Construction, as Citizen of the Year; Ashley Batlle, owner of Beauty Batlles Lounge, as Volunteer of the Year; the Springfield Thunderbirds as Business of the Year; and Health New England as Nonprofit of the Year. The Chicopee Chamber introduced Shining Stars in 1985 when Ernest Laflamme Jr. was recognized as the first Citizen of the Year. Recipients are selected by a nominating committee chaired by Laflamme and including Carol Campbell of Chicopee Industrial Contractors, Ted Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools, City Treasurer Marie Laflamme, Michael Siddall of Siddall & Siddall, P.C., and Jeffrey Sattler of Liberty Bank. The 40th annual Shining Stars Gala will take place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights at 1599 Memorial Dr. Tickets cost $75 per person. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call (413) 594-2101.

 

Bingo Night Fundraiser

March 21: The Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce announced its Handbag & Hand Tool Bingo Night fundraiser will take place at 6:30 p.m. at AMVETS Post 74 in Three Rivers. Doors open at 6 p.m. The chamber will produce 10 bingo rounds, each with a grand prize featuring one of seven designer handbags or one of three premium tools up for grabs. Tickets can be purchased on qhma.com. The registration fee is $40 per person and includes 10 bingo cards, a bingo dauber, snack platters, a bonus raffle ticket, and a cash bar. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce and its ongoing mission to assist its more than 200 member businesses succeed and grow with programs and initiatives throughout the year.

 

Second Chance Auction Gala

March 29: Second Chance Animal Services will host its 26th annual Auction Gala at the AC Marriott in Worcester. This is Second Chance’s most important fundraiser of the year, raising critical funds to help provide life-saving services to more than 56,000 pets in need. The evening will feature hundreds of silent auction items, raffles, and a small but exclusive live auction offering one-of-a-kind experiences. With a relaxed cocktail and dressy-casual dress code, the event is designed to be an enjoyable evening for all, combining great company with opportunities to make a meaningful impact. All proceeds will support Second Chance’s mission to transform the lives of pets by providing affordable veterinary care, keeping pets with their families, and finding loving homes for animals in need. Tickets are on sale now, and seating is limited, so early reservations are encouraged. Businesses and individuals can also support the event by sponsoring, which includes recognition in event materials, highlighting their commitment to supporting pets in need. Donations to the auction are another way to get involved, with unique goods, services, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences being especially popular. To purchase tickets, become a sponsor, or donate auction items, visit www.secondchanceanimals.org/dinner-auction or email [email protected].

 

Difference Makers Gala

April 9: Tickets are now on sale for BusinessWest’s 17th annual Difference Makers awards gala at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in this issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, are Jennie Adamczyk, executive director of Providence Ministries; Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Services; Andrea Bordenca, CEO of DESCO Service; Mychal Connolly, CEO of Stand Out Truck; John Delaney, director of Ride to Remember; John Doleva, president and CEO of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; the Michael J. Dias Foundation; and Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. They can be purchased at businesswest.com/eventcalendar/difference-makers-tickets. The 17th annual Difference Makers program is sponsored by Burkhart Pizzanelli, the Royal Law Firm, TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

 

Link to Libraries Gala

May 8: Link to Libraries announce its biennial gala, an evening that celebrates the organization’s transformative impact in the community while raising vital funds to ensure children have access to the books and programming they deserve. This year’s gala, taking place at the Basketball Hall of Fame, will feature a Swifty-themed evening inspired by Taylor Swift’s celebrated Eras Tour. Guests will enjoy an elegant night filled with cocktails, dinner, an auction, and the opportunity to connect with others passionate about the power of reading to transform lives. All proceeds from the gala go directly to Link to Libraries, a nonprofit committed to fostering literacy by providing books and programming for children in underserved communities. Tickets cost $90 per person, or $250 for VIP tickets that include a pre-gala VIP cocktail reception. Tickets are available at www.linktolibraries.org.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com. Fees range according to age. Those that register before the end of the day on March 10 are treated to the 3 Point Perks package, which grants early teams access to limited-edition goodies. 3 Point Perks are not available after March 10, and registration prices increase after May 26 for late teams.

 

Picture This

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Pictured: MLKFS President and CEO Shannon Rudder (second from right) with, from left, MSB’s Wil Morales, President and CEO Dan Moriarty, and Kylie LaPlante.
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Strong Partnership

In 2024, Monson Savings Bank (MSB) continued its strong support of one of its community partners, Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (MLKFS). The bank supported the MLKFS Be Love Project and the inclusion of the Springfield-based nonprofit in BusinessWest’s 2024 Giving Guide, and was a platinum-level sponsor of the organization’s first-ever Reunion Weekend, a three-day celebration.

Pictured: MLKFS President and CEO Shannon Rudder (second from right) with, from left, MSB’s Wil Morales, President and CEO Dan Moriarty, and Kylie LaPlante.

Pictured: MLKFS President and CEO Shannon Rudder (second from right) with, from left, MSB’s Wil Morales, President and CEO Dan Moriarty, and Kylie LaPlante.

 

Caring Gesture

Florence Bank pledged a gift of $100,000 to Caring Health Center of Springfield and officially presented the award on Dec. 19 at the center. Among those at the check presentation were Caring Health Center President and CEO Tania Barber (pictured) and other leaders of the organization; Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity (pictured) and other bank officials; and local dignitaries. The event underscored the need for health equity in the region’s diverse communities, and Barber told those in attendance that the bank’s donation offered the center a significant step toward the completion of its capital campaign.

Caring Health Center President and CEO Tania Barber (at left) and Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity

Caring Health Center President and CEO Tania Barber (at left) and Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity

 

Legendary Hall of Fame Award

At its 2024 convention, Maaco announced the recipient of the annual Tony Martino Legendary Hall of Fame award. Joe Houghton, owner of Maaco West Springfield in Massachusetts, was selected for this honor, which was created to recognize individuals who are not only exceptional brand ambassadors, but who serve as a positive influence for both the brand and their local community. As a veteran, Houghton (pictured at center with his team) devotes his time to supporting fellow veterans in his community. The center was also recently recognized by the Springfield Regional Chamber as a Super 60 honoree.

As a veteran, Houghton (pictured at center with his team) devotes his time to supporting fellow veterans in his community.

As a veteran, Houghton (pictured at center with his team) devotes his time to supporting fellow veterans in his community.

 

Haulin’ 4 Hunger

Advantage Truck Group employees recently delivered hundreds of non-perishable meals to seven community food pantries through its Haulin’ 4 Hunger program, including Our Community Table in Westfield. Since its inception in 2012, the Haulin’ 4 Hunger program has provided more than 80,000 meals and counting to help those in need.

Pictured: the Haulin’ 4 Hunger team of Advantage Truck Group employees and business partners, including Cummins, Dennis K. Burke, G. Lopes Construction, Global Partners, SelecTrucks of New England, UniBank, and Worcester Railers.

Pictured: the Haulin’ 4 Hunger team of Advantage Truck Group employees and business partners, including Cummins, Dennis K. Burke, G. Lopes Construction, Global Partners, SelecTrucks of New England, UniBank, and Worcester Railers.

 

Community Commitment Award

Pictured: Community Bank Chief Human Resource & Administration Officer Maureen Gillan-Myer accepts the award during ABA’s annual convention on Oct. 29 in New York City.

Pictured: Community Bank Chief Human Resource & Administration Officer Maureen Gillan-Myer accepts the award during ABA’s annual convention on Oct. 29 in New York City.

Community Bank’s community-development program was nationally recognized with a 2024 ABA Foundation Community Commitment Award from the American Bankers Assoc. Foundation. Community Bank was chosen for its efforts in the volunteerism category. In 2023, the bank broke records for volunteerism and philanthropic investments across its network of more than 200 branches.

 

 

 

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Applications for Local Farmer Awards

Through Jan. 31: Farmers in Western Mass. are invited to apply for Local Farmer Awards of up to $2,500. These grants are intended to help farmers purchase capital equipment related to planting, growing, harvesting, and processing that will help farms compete in the marketplace. The Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation (HGCF), in partnership with Big Y, the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation, along with the support of other funders, is entering its second decade of this program, which has helped more than 300 farmers carry out a total of 672 projects. The awards have helped farmers make necessary improvements such as upgrading electric fencing, purchasing no-till equipment, expanding irrigation, installing frost-free water systems, purchasing feed troughs, and applying shade cloths for greenhouses. To be eligible, farms must have gross sales of $10,000 and be located in Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, or Berkshire county. For a full list of eligibility requirements and application information, visit www.farmerawards.org.

 

40 Under Forty Nominations

Through Feb. 27: BusinessWest is currently accepting nominations for the 40 Under Forty class of 2025. The deadline for nominations is Feb. 27. Launched in 2007, the program recognizes rising stars in the four counties of Western Mass. Nominations, which should be detailed in nature, should list an individual’s accomplishments within their profession as well as their work within the community. Nominations can be completed online at businesswest.com/40-under-forty-nomination-form. Nominations will be weighed by a panel of judges, and the selected individuals will be profiled in the April 28 issue of BusinessWest and honored at the 40 Under Forty Gala in June.

 

Chamber of Greater Easthampton Meeting

Jan. 29: The Chamber of Greater Easthampton will hold its annual meeting from noon to 2 p.m. at the Jupiter Club, 116 Pleasant St., Suite 211, Easthampton. The annual meeting, the last one under retiring Executive Director Moe Belliveau, will not only highlight the chamber’s successes in the past year, but will offer chamber members the opportunity to provide feedback to shape the strategies for the coming year. The event will also welcome new members and showcase those members who celebrated a business milestone in 2024, including Hampton Flooring Center Inc., Besko’s Appliance, and Unbroken Wings Inc. for 25 years in business; USA Waste & Recycling and Wright Builders Inc. for 50 years in business; Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank for 135 years in business; and bankESB and Greenfield Savings Bank for 155 years in business. Registration costs $50 for members of the chamber ($65 for future members) and includes lunch. Reserved tables of eight are also available. For more information or to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or email [email protected].

 

Chicopee Chamber Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 28: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire the community. This year’s honorees are AJ Crane, owner of A. Crane Construction, as Citizen of the Year; Ashley Batlle, owner of Beauty Batlles Lounge, as Volunteer of the Year; the Springfield Thunderbirds as Business of the Year; and Health New England as Nonprofit of the Year. The Chicopee Chamber introduced Shining Stars in 1985 when Ernest Laflamme Jr. was recognized as the first Citizen of the Year. Recipients are selected by a nominating committee chaired by Laflamme and including Carol Campbell of Chicopee Industrial Contractors, Ted Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools, City Treasurer Marie Laflamme, Michael Siddall of Siddall & Siddall, P.C., and Jeffrey Sattler of Liberty Bank. The 40th annual Shining Stars Gala will take place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights at 1599 Memorial Dr. Tickets cost $75 per person. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call (413) 594-2101.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com. Fees range according to age. Those that register before the end of the day on March 10 are treated to the 3 Point Perks package, which grants early teams access to limited-edition goodies. 3 Point Perks are not available after March 10, and registration prices increase after May 26 for late teams.

 

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Royal Law Seminar

Jan. 8: The Royal Law Firm will present a seminar on “Compensation Plans and Contingent Compensation Pitfalls” from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at 33 Elliot St., Springfield. Attorney Trevor Brice will present an overview and discussion of the possible issues with current compensation plans and contingent compensation pitfalls made possible by recent court rulings. Some of the topics to be discussed include issues with current compensation plans under the FLSA, restrictive covenants and compensation plans, problems with commission-based compensation plans and possible solutions, and when a bonus is not actually a bonus and issues under the Massachusetts Wage Act. This seminar is ideal for HR professionals and anyone in a management position drafting compensation plans for current and prospective employees. The cost is $30 per person. Payments should be mailed, and checks made payable, to the Royal Law Firm, 33 Elliot St., Springfield, MA 01105. Registration is required, and seating will be limited. Email Heather Child at [email protected] to register or with any questions about the seminar.

 

Chamber of Greater Easthampton Meeting

Jan. 29: The Chamber of Greater Easthampton will hold its annual meeting from noon to 2 p.m. at the Jupiter Club, 116 Pleasant St., Suite 211, Easthampton. The annual meeting, the last one under retiring Executive Director Moe Belliveau, will not only highlight the chamber’s successes in the past year, but will offer chamber members the opportunity to provide feedback to shape the strategies for the coming year. The event will also welcome new members and showcase those members who celebrated a business milestone in 2024, including Hampton Flooring Center Inc., Besko’s Appliance, and Unbroken Wings Inc. for 25 years in business; USA Waste & Recycling and Wright Builders Inc. for 50 years in business; Greenfield/Northampton Cooperative Bank for 135 years in business; and bankESB and Greenfield Savings Bank for 155 years in business. Registration costs $50 for members of the chamber ($65 for future members) and includes lunch. Reserved tables of eight are also available. For more information or to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or email [email protected].

 

Chicopee Chamber Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 28: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire the community. This year’s honorees are AJ Crane, owner of A. Crane Construction, as Citizen of the Year; Ashley Batlle, owner of Beauty Batlles Lounge, as Volunteer of the Year; the Springfield Thunderbirds as Business of the Year; and Health New England as Nonprofit of the Year. The Chicopee Chamber introduced Shining Stars in 1985 when Ernest Laflamme Jr. was recognized as the first Citizen of the Year. Recipients are selected by a nominating committee chaired by Laflamme and including Carol Campbell of Chicopee Industrial Contractors, Ted Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools, City Treasurer Marie Laflamme, Michael Siddall of Siddall & Siddall, P.C., and Jeffrey Sattler of Liberty Bank. The 40th annual Shining Stars Gala will take place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights at 1599 Memorial Dr. Tickets cost $75 per person. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call (413) 594-2101.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Hooplandia will host levels for all ages and divisions, which means every kind of player is welcome. As the premier 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the nine northeastern states, Hooplandia is still in its early years, but growing rapidly. In 2023 and 2024, the event was a resounding success. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. The expansive ESE grounds allow for growth as attendance numbers continue to climb each year. ESE and the Hall of Fame agree that Hooplandia must be an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com. Fees range according to age. Those that register before the end of the day on March 10 are treated to the 3 Point Perks package, which grants early teams access to limited-edition goodies. 3 Point Perks are not available after March 10, and registration prices increase after May 26 for late teams. Since its first year, Hooplandia has partnered with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout Western Mass., with $10 from every paid team registration supporting the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs and their programming. Hooplandia invites local businesses to explore sponsorship opportunities. Email [email protected] with inquiries.

 

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Round Up for Kids

Through Dec. 31: Rocky’s Ace Hardware kicked off the season of giving with its “Round Up for Kids” fundraiser. Throughout the campaign, which extends through Dec. 31, customers are asked to round up their purchase total to the next dollar. The difference is donated to Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hospitals. Last year, the initiative raised more than $41,000 across all Rocky’s locations. All money raised goes to benefit local CMN hospitals, including Baystate Children’s Hospital in Springfield. Local participating Rocky’s locations include the Island Pond Road and Liberty Street stores in Springfield, as well as the stores in Agawam, East Longmeadow, Westfield, Ludlow, Palmer, and South Hadley. Donations help fund critical treatments, innovative research, pediatric equipment, financial assistance for families, and services aimed at putting the minds of children at ease during difficult hospital stays.

 

Chicopee Chamber Shining Stars Gala

Feb. 28: The Chicopee Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 2025 Shining Stars, recognizing individuals whose exceptional contributions strengthen and inspire the community. This year’s honorees are AJ Crane, owner of A. Crane Construction, as Citizen of the Year; Ashley Batlle, owner of Beauty Batlles Lounge, as Volunteer of the Year; the Springfield Thunderbirds as Business of the Year; and Health New England as Nonprofit of the Year. The Chicopee Chamber introduced Shining Stars in 1985 when Ernest Laflamme Jr. was recognized as the first Citizen of the Year. Recipients are selected by a nominating committee chaired by Laflamme and including Carol Campbell of Chicopee Industrial Contractors, Ted Hebert of Teddy Bear Pools, City Treasurer Marie Laflamme, Michael Siddall of Siddall & Siddall, P.C., and Jeffrey Sattler of Liberty Bank. The 40th annual Shining Stars Gala will take place from 6 to 10:30 p.m. at the Castle of Knights at 1599 Memorial Dr. Tickets cost $75 per person. To purchase tickets or inquire about sponsorships, visit www.chicopeechamber.org or call (413) 594-2101.

 

Hooplandia 2025

June 20-22: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the third annual 3-on-3 basketball tourney and festival, at hooplandia.com. The event will take place at Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame. Hooplandia will host levels for all ages and divisions, which means every kind of player is welcome. As the premier 3-on-3 basketball tournament in the nine northeastern states, Hooplandia is still in its early years, but growing rapidly. In 2023 and 2024, the event was a resounding success. Games will be played at the ESE complex, with special games held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. In 2024, 75 basketball courts allowed accommodation for more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. The expansive ESE grounds allow for growth as attendance numbers continue to climb each year. ESE and the Hall of Fame agree that Hooplandia must be an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. Diverse divisions include young girls and boys, women, men, high-school ages, college level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players in the Special Olympics and Unified division can look forward to free registration, and those in the Hoops & Heroes division, such as active and retired first responders and military personnel, have access to discounted registration. Players are inviated to build teams of four, create their own unique team name, design their uniforms, and register at hooplandia.com. Fees range according to age. Those that register before the end of the day on March 10 are treated to the 3 Point Perks package, which grants early teams access to limited-edition goodies. 3 Point Perks are not available after March 10, and registration prices increase after May 26 for late teams. Since its first year, Hooplandia has partnered with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout Western Mass., with $10 from every paid team registration supporting the mission of Boys & Girls Clubs and their programming. Hooplandia invites local businesses to explore sponsorship opportunities. Email [email protected] with inquiries.

 

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Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty, along with other bank representatives, recently presented a $2,250 donation to Shriners Children’s New England as part of the bank’s 2024 Community Giving Initiative
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Supporting Children’s Care

Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty, along with other bank representatives, recently presented a $2,250 donation to Shriners Children’s New England as part of the bank’s 2024 Community Giving Initiative, in which the public was given the opportunity to cast votes to support their favorite local charitable organizations. Shriners Children’s New England is a local clinic providing specialty orthopedic, neuromuscular, cleft lip and palate, and urologic care exclusively to children.

Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty, along with other bank representatives, recently presented a $2,250 donation to Shriners Children’s New England as part of the bank’s 2024 Community Giving Initiative

Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty, along with other bank representatives, recently presented a $2,250 donation to Shriners Children’s New England as part of the bank’s 2024 Community Giving Initiative

 

 

Honoring Veterans

Flash Car Wash recently held its annual Veterans Day promotion at all 19 locations across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut. The promotion included a free Diamond Wash at any Flash Car Wash location for all veterans and active service members on Veterans Day, while all proceeds from paid retail washes on Veterans Day were donated to Veterans Inc. That donation totaled $48,091 this year, an increase from last year’s $43,879.

Flash Car Wash recently held its annual Veterans Day promotion at all 19 locations across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

Flash Car Wash recently held its annual Veterans Day promotion at all 19 locations across Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

 

 

Real World Experience

AIC faculty and students joined the Springfield Thunderbirds for the team’s School Day event on Nov. 6, which welcomed more than 7,000 K-12 students from 68 area schools to enjoy a day of hockey. Led by Associate Professor Mei-Lin Yeh-Lane, students from AIC’s Event and Facility Management class provided hospitality and gained professional experience. The day included an exclusive tour of the MassMutual Center and the Thunderbirds’ office hosted by Todd McDonald, vice president of Sales and Strategy, and Laura Blanchard, senior account executive.

AIC faculty and students joined the Springfield Thunderbirds for the team’s School Day event on Nov. 6, which welcomed more than 7,000 K-12 students from 68 area schools to enjoy a day of hockey

AIC faculty and students joined the Springfield Thunderbirds for the team’s School Day event on Nov. 6, which welcomed more than 7,000 K-12 students from 68 area schools to enjoy a day of hockey

 

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Co-hosted by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, along with Chris and Deb Connelly, the event raised funds to directly support ongoing research and initiatives to find a cure for T1D.
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Party with 1 Purpose

Co-hosted by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, along with Chris and Deb Connelly, the event raised funds to directly support ongoing research and initiatives to find a cure for T1D.

Co-hosted by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, along with Chris and Deb Connelly, the event raised funds to directly support ongoing research and initiatives to find a cure for T1D.

The Party with 1 Purpose fundraiser, hosted at the Basketball Hall of Fame on Oct. 26, was a resounding success, raising more than $329,000 (and counting) in support of Breakthrough T1D, surpassing the event’s fundraising goal. The event brought together a vibrant community of supporters, families, and advocates, all united in the fight against type-1 diabetes (T1D). Co-hosted by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, along with Chris and Deb Connelly, the event raised funds to directly support ongoing research and initiatives to find a cure for T1D.

 

 

Round Up for Pets

14th annual Round Up for Pets fundraiser

14th annual Round Up for Pets fundraiser

Throughout its 14th annual Round Up for Pets fundraiser, Rocky’s Ace Hardware asked customers to round up their purchase total to the next dollar, with the difference donated to animal shelters near the store. A total of $34,561.68 was collected across all locations, with $6,050.81 raised locally going to shelters in Western Mass., including the Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control & Adoption Center and Dakin Pioneer Valley Humane Society in Springfield, Second Chance Animal Services in East Brookfield, and Westfield Animal Control and Shelter in Westfield.

 

Triple Winner

The Springfield Regional Chamber recognizes local businesses through its Super 60 awards

The Springfield Regional Chamber recognizes local businesses through its Super 60 awards

The Springfield Regional Chamber recognizes local businesses through its Super 60 awards. This year, Pioneer Valley Financial Group was honored in three categories: Revenue, Growth, and Give Back, recognizing total revenue within the latest fiscal year, revenue growth over three consecutive years, and a focus on giving back to the community, respectively. Partners Edward Sokolowski, Kelly Haber, and Karen Nogueira were thrilled to celebrate with the whole team at the annual Super 60 luncheon and award ceremony on Nov. 8.

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Pictured, from left: Duquette, Square One CEO Dawn DiStefano, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno.
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Back to Square One

On Sept. 27, MassMutual Foundation President Dennis Duquette announced a $1 million gift to the “Back to Square One” capital campaign to support the construction of a $15.5 million center at the location where Square One’s building was destroyed by a tornado in 2011. Slated to open next spring, the 26,000-square-foot facility will include four preschool classrooms, an outdoor learning and play area, a full-service family-support center, and administrative offices.

Pictured, from left: Duquette, Square One CEO Dawn DiStefano, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno.

Pictured, from left: Duquette, Square One CEO Dawn DiStefano, and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno.

 

 

Growing Challenges for Cannabis

Attorney Elaine Reall, chief legal officer at the Royal Law Firm, spoke at the annual meeting of the National Assoc. of Women & Minority Owned Law Firms in Atlanta on Sept. 15-18. Reall (right), along with Radhi Shah of Zuber Lawler LLP and Lucia de Vernai of Trulieve Inc., discussed the ethics and legalities surrounding the growing cannabis industry. Reall provided insight into product liability and consumer misrepresentation in the industry, as well as strategies for mitigating risks related to evolving state laws, the FDA’s stance, CBD uncertainties, vaping concerns, and guidelines for how business stakeholders should navigate legal risks effectively.

Reall (right), along with Radhi Shah of Zuber Lawler LLP and Lucia de Vernai of Trulieve Inc.

Reall (right), along with Radhi Shah of Zuber Lawler LLP and Lucia de Vernai of Trulieve Inc.

 

Getting a Head Start

On Sept. 23, Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) and Holyoke Chicopee Springfield (HCS) Head Start announced the opening of an HCS early-childhood program on the STCC campus. The opening of the facility will provide affordable childcare for qualifying families in the region, as well as learning and training opportunities for STCC students.

Pictured: Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and HCS Head Start CEO Nicole Blais cut a ribbon to mark the opening of program, alongside elected officials and leaders from STCC and HCS Head Start.

Pictured: Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and HCS Head Start CEO Nicole Blais cut a ribbon to mark the opening of program, alongside elected officials and leaders from STCC and HCS Head Start.

 

 

Class Act

Country Bank President and CEO Mary McGovern recently announced that the bank donated its 191 Sykes St. location in Palmer to Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School. The property, valued at $500,000, will facilitate Pathfinder Tech’s expansion of adult evening education programs and provide additional office space, as well as hosting classes.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 13 was attended by local dignitaries, including state Sen. Jacob Oliveira, state Reps. Todd Smola and Aaron Saunders, and others.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 13 was attended by local dignitaries, including state Sen. Jacob Oliveira, state Reps. Todd Smola and Aaron Saunders, and others.

 

 

Recognizing Quick Response

Mercy Medical Center has been recognized for the delivery of quality stroke care by the Massachusetts Paul Coverdell Stroke Systems of Care Collaborative at the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Thanks to the diligent work of the Mercy Stroke Team, Mercy Medical Center has received Coverdell awards for the quick administration of a CT for suspected stroke patients and for dysphagia screening protocols. Data from January 2023 through December 2023 were analyzed for these awards.

the Mercy Stroke Team

the Mercy Stroke Team

 

 

Igniting Workforce Success

Holyoke Community College (HCC) recently received the Igniting Workforce Success award from the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) for a cybersecurity training program it runs in partnership with the agency, which recently changed its name to MassAbility.

Pictured: Kermit Dunkelberg (center), HCC vice president for Adult Basic Education and Workforce Development, accepts the award from MassAbility Commissioner Toni Walsh (right), alongside Salvador Pina, dean of Workforce and Business Development at Roxbury Community College.

Pictured: Kermit Dunkelberg (center), HCC vice president for Adult Basic Education and Workforce Development, accepts the award from MassAbility Commissioner Toni Walsh (right), alongside Salvador Pina, dean of Workforce and Business Development at Roxbury Community College.

 

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Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11
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Open for Business

Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11 with a ribbon cutting and reception welcoming local business and government leaders, clients, and friends, including Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Diana Szynal, president of the Springfield Regional Chamber. The new space is on the ninth floor of Tower Square at 1500 Main St. downtown. Pullman & Comley opened its original Springfield office, the firm’s first in Massachusetts, in 2019. It has Connecticut offices in Bridgeport, Hartford, and Westport, as well as in White Plains, N.Y. and Wakefield, R.I.

Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11

Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11

 

 

Community Day

On June 14, Whittlesey, one of New England’s largest regional CPA and consulting firms, continued its annual day of volunteerism with various projects across Connecticut and Western Mass. For more than a decade, Whittlesey team members have stepped away from their desks to engage in activities that directly impact the communities where they live and work. This year, Whittlesey mobilized team members throughout the region to collaborate with the Bushnell Park Conservancy, the Diaper Bank of Connecticut, and the Zoo in Forest Park (pictured). Volunteers engaged in a variety of activities, including park cleanup efforts, mulching, planting flower beds, and repairing and painting fences.

This year, Whittlesey mobilized team members throughout the region to collaborate with projects like the Zoo in Forest Park.

This year, Whittlesey mobilized team members throughout the region to collaborate with projects like the Zoo in Forest Park.

 

 

Food for Thought

bankESB recently announced a commitment of $20,000 to Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture’s (CISA) Growing Resilience Campaign, an effort focused on building a stronger, more resilient local food system in Western Mass. This campaign is in line with bankESB’s commitment to supporting the communities it serves through its charitable-giving program, the Giving Tree.

Food for Thought

Pictured: CISA Development Director Wendy Ferris (center) flanked by, from left, bankESB’s George Michelakis, Amherst branch officer; Lauren Tabin, assistant vice president and Northampton branch officer; Olivia Falcone, social media specialist; and Gary Turku, senior vice president, Retail Banking.

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Healthcare Heroes Nominations

Through July 29: In the spring of 2017, BusinessWest and its sister publication, the Healthcare News, created a new and exciting recognition program called Healthcare Heroes. It was launched with the theory that there are heroes working across this region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare sector, and that there was no shortage of fascinating stories to tell and individuals and groups to honor. That theory has certainly been validated. But there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of heroes whose stories we still need to tell. And that’s where you come in. Nominations for the class of 2024 are due Monday, July 29, and we encourage you to get involved and help recognize someone you consider to be a hero in the community we call Western Mass. in one (or more) of these eight categories: Care Provider, Administrator, Emerging Leader, Community Health, Educator, Innovation, Collaboration, and Lifetime Achievement. Nominations can be submitted at businesswest.com/healthcareheroes/nominations.

 

Dulye Leadership Experience Virtual Leadership Program

June 26: Dulye Leadership Experience will present a Culture Chat titled “The Shift You Need to Make When You Become a Leader.” This free virtual program begins at noon. Prominent LinkedIn leadership voice Evan Hickok will provide tips for avoiding the biggest barriers that cause 60% of new managers to fail within the first 24 months in their role. This one-hour session is ideal for current managers and professionals seeking a future management role. Hickok has leveraged his interest in building high-performing teams into a weekly newsletter, “Lighthouse Leadership,” and content creation on LinkedIn. He has held leadership roles in engineering and manufacturing at General Electric and General Dynamics, and has designed complex systems for the U.S. Navy and served as a program manager for multi-million-dollar projects with demanding customers. Throughout his two-decade experience in major corporations, he has conducted extensive research on the differences between successful and struggling teams. He created an onboarding process for a Fortune 100 company that accelerated the productivity of more than 500 new hires by accelerating their connections. Culture Chat is a career-focused program that fosters conversations and connections with professionals from different industries and companies. The interactive program format features a mini-workshop with the expert followed by small group discussions. Reserve a virtual seat here by visiting www.eventbrite.com/e/dle-culture-chat-the-shift-you-need-to-make-when-you-become-a-leader-registration-907236798687?aff=oddtdtcreator. There is no fee to attend, thanks to the sustained sponsorship of the Dulye & Co. consulting firm.

 

Free Fraud, Scams, and Cybersecurity Seminar

June 26: Monson Savings Bank will host a free seminar from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. The seminar will be focused on helping attendees from businesses grow their awareness of risks and prevention methods related to fraud, scams, and cybersecurity. In the no-cost seminar, expert speakers Heather Arbour, Monson Savings Bank vice president, BSA/fraud officer, and compliance manager; Paul Shepardson, Monson Savings Bank assistant vice president and digital systems officer; and Charlie Christianson, owner and technology and security professional with CMD Technology Group Inc., will share with attendees how to protect themselves and their businesses from fraud and scams, how to identify scam-prevention methods, how to create a risk assessment for their current business practices, how to develop security procedures for their business and employees, and how to respond to events where a business may be at risk for fraud or a scam.

 

Yidstock

July 11-14: Tickets are now on sale for Yidstock: the Festival of New Yiddish Music. Now in its 12th year, Yidstock brings the best in klezmer and new Yiddish music to the stage at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst. Highlights this year will include the Klezmatics, Frank London, Eleanor Reissa, Judy Bressler, Daniel Kahn, and many more. Concert passes are available and include admission to all concerts and the two dance workshops. Individual tickets are also available for purchase for those who can only attend for part of the weekend. This year, livestream concert passes will allow friends from afar to experience Yidstock from the comfort of their homes. These passes only include access to the seven concerts; they do not include access to talks, workshops, or the film screening. Visit yiddishbookcenter.org/yidstock for more information and to purchase tickets.

 

Party for a Purpose

Sept. 19: With the goal of making sure Square One’s children have a new, state-of-the-art, outdoor learning and playspace, Friends on a Mission will host its annual Party for a Purpose to raise funds for the playground project at Square One’s Tommie Johnson Child & Family Center in Springfield. Now in its second year, Friends on a Mission started with a trio of friends — Bob Perry, Walter Tomala, and the late Jenn Schimmel — who set out to spend time together while giving back to the community. Their inaugural event held last fall raised more than $38,000 for Make-A-Wish of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With early sponsorship support from PeoplesBank and Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., this year’s Party for a Purpose, featuring cocktails, food, and festivities, will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Delaney House in Holyoke. Interested sponsors should contact Perry at (413) 530-3787. For tickets, visit www.startatsquareone.org.

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Square One’s school-age childcare program
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Education and Fun

Square One’s school-age childcare program recently received a $5,000 boost from Liberty Bank. The funds will be used to enhance the experiences of Square One’s children, kindergarten through grade 5, who attend after-school and summer programming. Enhancements will include a partnership with Mass Audubon and educational and recreational field trips. “Exposure to engaged learning opportunities and fun, recreational experiences in a community-based setting is key to further advancing our future leaders,” Liberty Bank president and CEO Dave Glidden said.

Square One’s school-age childcare program

Square One’s school-age childcare program

 

 

Bringing Back the Music

Florence Bank recently announced it has donated $100,000 to the Iron Horse Music Hall, supporting a $750,000 capital campaign for renovations and updates to the well-loved music venue in downtown Northampton, which its new owner, the Parlor Room Collective, reopened on May 15.

Parlor Room Collective

Pictured, from left: Randy Krotowski, president of the Parlor Room Collective board of directors; Chris Freeman, executive director of the Parlor Room Collective; and Matt Garrity, president and CEO, Florence Bank. (Photo by Jim Gipe, Pivot Media)

 

 

A Nursing Career Awaits

American International College celebrated National Student Nurses Day on May 8 as its nursing students gathered for the annual class photo on the steps of the college’s Esther B. Griswold Theatre. With campus therapy dog Woody adding to the excitement, these soon-to-be nurses were eager for their pinning ceremony on May 10 and graduation at the MassMutual Center on May 11.

American International College nursing students. (Photo by Leon Nguyen)

American International College nursing students. (Photo by Leon Nguyen)

 

 

Lifetime Achievement Award

On May 3, state Sen. John Velis joined community members at Hope for Holyoke’s eighth annual Hopey Awards. During this event, which recognized individuals, businesses, staff, peer leaders, and volunteers, Velis received Hope for Holyoke’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his work to support those in recovery. Throughout Velis’s career, he has championed legislation and support for programs focused on supporting those with substance-use disorders.

On May 3, state Sen. John Velis joined community members at Hope for Holyoke’s eighth annual Hopey Awards.

On May 3, state Sen. John Velis joined community members at Hope for Holyoke’s eighth annual Hopey Awards.

 

 

Learning with a Purpose

On April 30, students in the Communication department at Westfield State University presentation a $915 check to Shannon Rudder (second from right), president and CEO of Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services of Springfield. The students had built an awareness and fundraising campaign for the organization during the spring semester. To date, this Advanced Public Relations class taught by Professor Suzanne Boniface has raised more than $18,000 for nonprofit organizations.

Students in the Communication department at Westfield State University

Students in the Communication department at Westfield State University presentation a $915 check to Shannon Rudder (second from right), president and CEO of Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services of Springfield

 

 

Team Spirit

Members of Mercy Medical Center’s Family Life Center team (pictured) recently celebrated the hospital’s recognition as a TeamBirth site. Mercy implemented TeamBirth in 2023 to optimize teamwork and communication before, during, and after labor and delivery. Through structured huddles and a shared planning board, TeamBirth empowers patients, their support people, and their clinicians to reach care decisions together. The result is more dignified, respectful care that gives patients the role that they want.

Members of Mercy Medical Center’s Family Life Center team

Members of Mercy Medical Center’s Family Life Center team

 

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Designer Showhouse at Cassilis Farm

June 1-30: Construct Inc., a nonprofit provider of affordable housing and supportive services to residents in 15 towns across the Southern Berkshires, announced its first Designer Showhouse fundraising exhibition. Slated for the entire month of June, the Designer Showhouse will highlight the elegant, creative work of more than a dozen local and regional designers, as well as landscape architects and visual artists. Each exhibitor has been assigned a space at Cassilis Farm, an iconic, 27-acre, Gilded Age estate that Construct, along with the New Marlborough Housing Development Committee, purchased at auction with the intention of renovating and converting it into 11 much-needed affordable-housing apartments. The Designer Showhouse pays homage to the theme “Nature in the Berkshires” and displays the transformative, custom work of award-winning designers, whose areas of focus range from real-estate staging and interiors to styling and iconic textile design. Room themes range from a swan nursery inspired by a local swan rescue area to a picnic-under-the-stars nod to Tanglewood to an equestrian-heavy library drawing inspiration from the estate’s former existence as a hackney horse-breeding farm. The Showhouse will be a timed, ticketed walk-through and will be open to visitors through five weekends in June. Timed tickets cost $40 per person and can be purchased online only, at constructberkshires.org/construct-designer-showhouse.

 

Real-estate Licensing Course

June 3 to July 11: The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will host a 40 hour, 14-class, sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real-estate salesperson license exam. Tuition costs $425 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328 or visit www.rapv.com.

 

A Better Life Homecare Cocktail Hour

June 5: A Better Life Homecare will host a cocktail hour at Dewey’s Jazz Lounge in Springfield from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. This networking event serves multiple purposes. First, it’s an opportunity for the company to introduce its newest home-care programs, designed with the aim of enhancing quality of life for clients. Additionally, A Better Life has exciting news to share. Attendees will connect with fellow healthcare experts and community leaders in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, discover more about A Better Life’s innovative homecare programs and how they can benefit those in need, and join in celebrating the company’s successes and look forward to a future of continued collaboration and growth. RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling (413) 285-5929.

 

Free Shred Days

June 8, 22: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at locations: Saturday, June 8 at 770 Main St., Agawam; and Saturday, June 22 at 241 Northampton St., Easthampton (two trucks at this event). No appointment is necessary. Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

40 Under Forty Gala

June 20: BusinessWest will celebrate the 18th annual 40 Under Forty at the MassMutual Center in Springfield with fine food, music, networking, and the presentation of the class of 2024, profiled in the April 29 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com. The 40 Under Forty sponsors include presenting sponsor PeoplesBank and partner sponsors the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Live Nation, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health. The event will also feature the announcement of the 10th annual Alumni Achievement Award, presented by Health New England. Tickets cost $125 per person and are available at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty. 

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, providing $10 from every paid team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For inquiries, email [email protected].

 

Yidstock

July 11-14: Tickets are now on sale for Yidstock: the Festival of New Yiddish Music. Now in its 12th year, Yidstock brings the best in klezmer and new Yiddish music to the stage at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst. Highlights this year will include the Klezmatics, Frank London, Eleanor Reissa, Judy Bressler, Daniel Kahn, and many more. Concert passes are available and include admission to all concerts and the two dance workshops. Individual tickets are also available for purchase for those who can only attend for part of the weekend. This year, livestream concert passes will allow friends from afar to experience Yidstock from the comfort of their homes. These passes only include access to the seven concerts; they do not include access to talks, workshops, or the film screening. Visit yiddishbookcenter.org/yidstock for more information and to purchase tickets.

Agenda

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Agenda

Tri-State SHRM Conference

May 13-15: The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) announced that the Tri-State SHRM Conference, the largest human-resources (HR) conference in New England, will take place at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn. The conference aims to unmask the changing face of HR by providing HR leaders with the necessary tools to stay ahead of the curve. The multi-day event will feature keynote speakers, educational breakout sessions, interactive games, multiple business networking opportunities, and an expo showcasing the latest HR technology and trends. The conference will cover a variety of topics, including “Building a FOMO Workplace Culture,” “SEAT of Success: How Top Performers Never Settle for Balcony Seats,” and “Beyond Productivity: the Unseen Risks of Employee Stress and Burnout in the Workplace.” There will be 24 sessions available in total, featuring more than 27 speakers. Register online at tristateshrm.com.

 

Workers’ Compensation Seminar at Royal Law

May 14: Proposed changes in workers’ compensation laws aim to hold employers to a higher standard, as well as increase employers’ potential liability. At a seminar from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Royal Law Firm, these changes and recent legislation regarding workers’ compensation will be discussed in detail to ensure employers are aware of the consequences of not following new practices. Attorney Trevor Brice will discuss the recent changes and potential upheaval in the workers’ compensation world. The firm is located at 33 Elliot St., Springfield. The cost is $30 per person. Registration is required, and seating will be limited. Contact Heather Child at [email protected] to register or with any questions. Checks should be made payable to the Royal Law Firm.

 

Designer Showhouse at Cassilis Farm

June 1-30: Construct Inc., a nonprofit provider of affordable housing and supportive services to residents in 15 towns across the Southern Berkshires, announced its first Designer Showhouse fundraising exhibition. Slated for the entire month of June, the Designer Showhouse will highlight the elegant, creative work of more than a dozen local and regional designers, as well as landscape architects and visual artists. Each exhibitor has been assigned a space at Cassilis Farm, an iconic, 27-acre, Gilded Age estate that Construct, along with the New Marlborough Housing Development Committee, purchased at auction with the intention of renovating and converting it into 11 much-needed affordable-housing apartments. The Designer Showhouse pays homage to the theme “Nature in the Berkshires” and displays the transformative, custom work of award-winning designers, whose areas of focus range from real-estate staging and interiors to styling and iconic textile design. Room themes range from a swan nursery inspired by a local swan rescue area to a picnic-under-the-stars nod to Tanglewood to an equestrian-heavy library drawing inspiration from the estate’s former existence as a hackney horse-breeding farm. The Showhouse will be a timed, ticketed walk-through and will be open to visitors through five weekends in June. Timed tickets cost $40 per person and can be purchased online only, at constructberkshires.org/construct-designer-showhouse.

 

Free Shred Days

June 8, 22: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at locations: Saturday, June 8 at 770 Main St., Agawam; and Saturday, June 22 at 241 Northampton St., Easthampton (two trucks at this event). No appointment is necessary. Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

40 Under Forty Gala

June 20: BusinessWest will celebrate the 18th annual 40 Under Forty at the MassMutual Center in Springfield with fine food, music, networking, and the presentation of the class of 2024, profiled in the April 29 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com. The 40 Under Forty sponsors include presenting sponsor PeoplesBank and partner sponsors the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Live Nation, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health. The event will also feature the announcement of the 10th annual Alumni Achievement Award, presented by Health New England. Tickets cost $125 each. To reserve tickets, visit businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty.

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, providing $10 from every paid team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For inquiries, email [email protected].

 

Yidstock

July 11-14: Tickets are now on sale for Yidstock: the Festival of New Yiddish Music. Now in its 12th year, Yidstock brings the best in klezmer and new Yiddish music to the stage at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst. Highlights this year will include the Klezmatics, Frank London, Eleanor Reissa, Judy Bressler, Daniel Kahn, and many more. Concert passes are available and include admission to all concerts and the two dance workshops. Individual tickets are also available for purchase for those who can only attend for part of the weekend. This year, livestream concert passes will allow friends from afar to experience Yidstock from the comfort of their homes. These passes only include access to the seven concerts; they do not include access to talks, workshops, or the film screening. Visit yiddishbookcenter.org/yidstock for more information and to purchase tickets.

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Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR

Through May 5: Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR has come to Hartford, Conn. for the first time ever. A colourful homage to Cirque du Soleil legacy, BAZZAR opened on April 6 and will continue its performances until May 5 at Under the Big Top on Market Street. The show features acrobatic disciplines such as teeterboard, acrobike, contortion, duo rollerskates, duo trapeze, aerial rope, hair suspension, fire manipulation, slackline, and music performed live on stage. Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR is intended to be an eclectic lab of creativity where a joyful troupe of acrobats, dancers, and musicians craft an awe-inspiring spectacle. Led by their maestro, they band together to invent a whimsical, one-of-a-kind universe. In a place where the unexpected is expected, the colourful group imagines, builds, and invents vibrant scenes in an artistic and acrobatic game. The high-energy excitement, collision of sounds and colors, and meeting place of diverse characters one might find at a traditional bazaar inspired the name of the show. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/bazzar.

 

Alumni Achievement Award Nominations

Through May 10: When BusinessWest launched its 40 Under Forty program in 2007, it did so to identify rising stars across our region — individuals who were excelling in business and through involvement within the community — and celebrate their accomplishments. In 2015, BusinessWest announced a new award, one that builds on the foundation upon which 40 Under Forty was created. It’s called the Alumni Achievement Award. As the name suggests, it is presented to the 40 Under Forty honoree who, in the eyes of an independent panel of judges, has most impressively continued and built upon his or her track record of accomplishment. Candidates must be from 40 Under Forty classes prior to the year of the award — in this case, classes 2007 to 2023. The 2024 Alumni Achievement Award finalists will be profiled in the June 10 edition of BusinessWest, and the honoree will be announced at the 40 Under Forty gala on June 20. The presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award is Health New England.

Visit businesswest.com/40-under-forty/alumniachievementaward for the nomination form, and visit businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty for a list of the past 40 Under Forty classes.

 

Rev. Hugh Crean Lecture

May 1: Elms College and the St. Augustine Center for Ethics, Religion, and Culture will present the fifth annual Rev. Hugh Crean Distinguished Lecture in Catholic Thought at 4:30 p.m. The lecture, which will take place in person in the college’s Alumnae Library Theater, was rescheduled from its initial April 4 date. The distinguished speaker for this lecture is Dominic Doyle, associate professor of Systematic Theology at the Boston College School of Theology and Ministry (STM). The theme for Doyle’s remarks will be “Christian Humanism and the Theology of Hope.” Most recently, Doyle led STM’s Neuroscience Education for Theological Training grant from the Science for Seminaries program sponsored by the American Assoc. for the Advancement of Science/Dialogue on Science, Religion, and Ethics. He is currently working on a book exploring the history of theological virtues, tentatively titled Thematic Variations in Theological Virtue. To register, visit www.elms.edu/events/st-augustine-rev-hugh-crean-distinguished-lecture.

 

YWCA Golf Tournament

May 6: The YWCA of Western Massachusetts Golf Tournament will be held at Springfield Country Club, with registration now open online at ywworks.org. Proceeds of the charity golf tournament will support the Children Who Witness Violence program, which offers therapy for children who have witnessed or experienced abuse and violence. The Healthy and Empowering Relationship Education program of the YWCA, which helps Springfield middle- and high-schoolers learn about healthy relationships and friendships, will also benefit from proceeds raised at the tournament. Cost per golfer to participate in the tournament is $155, which includes golf, cart, lunch, dinner, and a quarter-zip jacket. There will be a raffle and cash bar at the country club. Individuals or organizations interested in registering or sponsoring the event can visit ywworks.org.

 

‘So You Think You Want to Join a Board?’

May 8, Aug. 14, Oct. 9: United Way of Pioneer Valley is introducing a learning component as part of its OnBoard board-readiness and matching program. Serving as an on-ramp to the popular annual board-matching event held each winter, “So You Think You Want to Join a Board?” is a three-part series geared toward individuals considering board-level volunteer opportunities. Through a conversational style of presentations by highly experienced nonprofit mentors in Western Mass., attendees will have the opportunity to learn, ask questions, network, and receive resources and tools to help them determine if board service is a good fit. Part one of “So You Think You Want to Join a Board?” will be facilitated by Shannon Mumblo, president of Shannon Mumblo Consulting Inc., who will review the unique role nonprofits play in the community ecosystem and what potential volunteers should be aware of as board members. This breakfast event will be held on Wednesday, May 8 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in the TD Bank conference room at 1441 Main St., Springfield. Part two will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 14 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. and will be facilitated by National Federation of Community Broadcasters CEO Rima Dael, who will provide participants with an understanding of board service as it relates to governance, fundraising, and basic financial oversight. The final event in the series will take place the morning of Wednesday, Oct. 9, and will be led by Sarah Tanner, a partner with Financial Development Agency, who will guide attendees in understanding what questions they need to ask nonprofits in order to determine a fit. All three of the learning sessions are free and will culminate in the OnBoard matching event on the evening of Thursday, Dec. 12.

 

VA Central Western Mass. Centennial Celebration

May 11: The VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System is commemorating a century of dedication to serving U.S. veterans. Established in 1924, the healthcare system has continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of veterans, delivering compassionate care and innovative services. To honor this significant milestone, the VA invites the community to an event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 421 North Main St., Leeds. The festivities will include special events, recognition ceremonies, and opportunities for veterans and their families to connect with one another, as well as food, games, and fun for the whole family. For more information about the centennial celebration and upcoming events, visit www.va.gov/central-western-massachusetts-health-care or call Sarah Robinson, Public Affairs officer for the VA Central Western Massachusetts Healthcare System, at (413) 584-4040, ext. 3532.

 

Pioneer Valley Conference for Women

May 9: The third annual Pioneer Valley Conference for Women will be held at Marriott Springfield Downtown from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conference will be held in person and virtually. This year’s theme is “Unleashed.” Christina Royal will serve as emcee for the conference. The former president of Holyoke Community College, Royal is now president and CEO of Infinite Unlearning LLC, a woman-, BIPOC-, and queer-owned executive coaching and consultancy service supporting mid- to senior leaders and their organizations. Keynote speakers are Meghan Rothschild, president and owner of the marketing and public-relations firm Chikmedia, and Jessika Rozki, founder of Rozki Rides, a transportation service focusing on children and seniors. The conference will also feature 10 different panels that women can choose to attend in the morning and afternoon. The 30 panelists are all local women. Dianne Fuller Doherty will be presented with the Goddess Award, recognizing her many years of volunteer work on behalf of women. A comedy kickoff reception the night before the conference will feature comedian Jess Miller. Visit ow.ly/qgYJ50QK85h for more information or to purchase tickets. Event sponsors include M&T Bank, Westfield Bank, Liberty Bank, Country Bank, and USI.

 

Free Shred Days

June 8, 22: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at locations: Saturday, June 8 at 770 Main St., Agawam; and Saturday, June 22 at 241 Northampton St., Easthampton (two trucks at this event). No appointment is necessary. Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

40 Under Forty Gala

June 20: BusinessWest will celebrate the 18th annual 40 Under Forty at the MassMutual Center in Springfield with fine food, music, networking, and the presentation of the class of 2024, profiled in this issue and at businesswest.com. The 40 Under Forty sponsors include presenting sponsor PeoplesBank and partner sponsors the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Live Nation, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health. The event will also feature the announcement of the 10th annual Alumni Achievement Award, presented by Health New England. Tickets cost $125 per person (tables of 10 are available), and they go on sale on Monday, April 29 at 9 a.m. at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty.

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, providing $10 from every paid team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For inquiries, email [email protected].

 

Yidstock

July 11-14: Tickets are now on sale for Yidstock: the Festival of New Yiddish Music. Now in its 12th year, Yidstock brings the best in klezmer and new Yiddish music to the stage at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst. Highlights this year will include the Klezmatics, Frank London, Eleanor Reissa, Judy Bressler, Daniel Kahn, and many more. Concert passes are available and include admission to all concerts and the two dance workshops. Individual tickets are also available for purchase for those who can only attend for part of the weekend. This year, livestream concert passes will allow friends from afar to experience Yidstock from the comfort of their homes. These passes only include access to the seven concerts; they do not include access to talks, workshops, or the film screening. Visit yiddishbookcenter.org/yidstock for more information and to purchase tickets.

Picture This

By
Driving Support
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Driving Support

Balise Auto recently presented a check for $40,000 to Square One, combining Balise’s generosity with matching gifts from Balise’s corporate partners at Lexus and Toyota. Square One currently provides early learning services to more than 500 infants, toddlers, and school-age children each day, as well as family support services to 1,500 families each year, as they work to overcome the significant challenges in their lives.

Driving Support

Pictured, from left: Ken Maffia of Balise; Kristine Allard and Dawn DiStefano of Square One; and Alex Balise and Tim Cardillo of Balise.

 

 

Progress, Promise, and a Name

On March 26, regional leaders unveiled a name for the cybersecurity center at Union Station: the Richard E. Neal Cybersecurity Center of Excellence. U.S. Rep. Neal, who provided a tour of the center currently under construction, led a funding effort in 2023 that resulted in $3 million of congressionally directed spending to establish the center, which is also is supported by a $1.46 million state grant and $500,000 from the city of Springfield.

Progress, Promise, and a Name

Pictured, from left: STCC President John Cook, Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Neal, Springfield Redevelopment Authority Chair Armando Feliciano; and CyberTrust Massachusetts CEO Peter Sherlock.

 

Beyond Frames

Mechanics Hall in Worcester unveiled three commissioned portraits of 19th-century Black Americans at an event called “Beyond Frames” on March 14, as part of its Portraits Project. Westfield State University Associate Art Professor Imo Nse Imeh contributed with his portrait of formerly enslaved civil-rights leader, orator, and writer Frederick Douglass. The Mechanics Hall Portrait Gallery is an installation honoring 19th-century Worcester innovators, social reformers, Civil War heroes, and political leaders.

Pictured: Imeh in his studio with his Douglass portrait.

 

Student Art at the Mill District

On April 6, the Mill District General Store & Local Art Gallery unveiled an installation called “Pieces of Us,” a mosaic by more than 120 students at Pelham Elementary School. The front-window exhibit, which runs through April 27, was “inspired by classroom dialogues around identity and the many characteristics that shape our school community,” art teacher Emily Stewart (pictured) said. “Each student had full control over their creative expression within Pelham’s choice-based art studio. The selections they made in subject, media, style, and design invite us to embrace the beauty of their collective diversity and the mosaic of their varied experiences.”

Student Art at the Mill District

The Mill District General Store & Local Art Gallery unveiled an installation called “Pieces of Us,” a mosaic by more than 120 students at Pelham Elementary School

 

Community Effort

Monson Savings Bank’s annual donation and pledge drive to benefit the United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) recently raised a total of $5,184. Employees also raised an additional $1,063 through a bank-wide bingo game and $695 through a TGIF dress-down program. The bank also provided a corporate donation of $1,000, bringing the total United Way donation to $7,942.

Community Effort

Pictured, from left: Dodie Carpentier and President Dan Moriarty of Monson Savings, Tracy Trial and Megan Moynihan of UWPV, and Michael Rouette and Kylie LaPlante of Monson Savings.

 

Learning Opportunity

Five Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) students — Travis Canary, Bradley DeJesus, Samuel Frechette, Jessica Phillips, and Hong Zhang — joined their peers for the Annual Conference on the First-Year Experience in Seattle on Feb. 18-21. The five STCC students in the STEM Starter Academy embarked on a transformative experience, embracing opportunities for growth, connection, and learning.

Learning Opportunity

Pictured, from left: Canary; Zhang; Jason Phillips, academic counselor; DeJesus; Zahi Haddad, professor of Engineering and Physical Sciences; Frechette; and Samar Ghrear, director of the STEM Starter Academy.

Agenda

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Agenda

Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR

Through May 5: Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR has come to Hartford, Conn. for the first time ever. A colourful homage to Cirque du Soleil legacy, BAZZAR opened on April 6 and will continue its performances until May 5 at Under the Big Top on Market Street. The show features acrobatic disciplines such as teeterboard, acrobike, contortion, duo rollerskates, duo trapeze, aerial rope, hair suspension, fire manipulation, slackline, and music performed live on stage. Cirque du Soleil BAZZAR is intended to be an eclectic lab of creativity where a joyful troupe of acrobats, dancers, and musicians craft an awe-inspiring spectacle. Lead by their maestro, they band together to invent a whimsical, one-of-a-kind universe. In a place where the unexpected is expected, the colourful group imagines, builds, and invents vibrant scenes in an artistic and acrobatic game. The high-energy excitement, collision of sounds and colors, and meeting place of diverse characters one might find at a traditional bazaar inspired the name of the show. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/bazzar.

 

Alumni Achievement Award Nominations

Through May 10: When BusinessWest launched its 40 Under Forty program in 2007, it did so to identify rising stars across our region — individuals who were excelling in business and through involvement within the community — and celebrate their accomplishments. In 2015, BusinessWest announced a new award, one that builds on the foundation upon which 40 Under Forty was created. It’s called the Alumni Achievement Award. As the name suggests, it is presented to the 40 Under Forty honoree who, in the eyes of an independent panel of judges, has most impressively continued and built upon his or her track record of accomplishment. Candidates must be from 40 Under Forty classes prior to the year of the award — in this case, classes 2007 to 2023. The 2024 Alumni Achievement Award finalists will be profiled in the June 10 edition of BusinessWest, and the honoree will be announced at the 40 Under Forty gala on June 20. The presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award is Health New England. Visit businesswest.com/40-under-forty/alumniachievementaward for the nomination form, and visit businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty for a list of the past 40 Under Forty classes.

 

‘The Dangers of Union Activity Within a Non-union Workplace’

April 17: The popularity of unions has created dangers for employers, both unionized and non-unionized alike. Even if an employer is non-unionized, the employer risks violating the National Labor Relations Act and being subject to charges from the National Labor Relations Board if new laws and rulings are not considered. Attorney Trevor Brice from the Royal Law Firm will present a seminar, titled “The Dangers of Union Activity Within a Non-union Workplace and Other Recent Changes to Enforcement of the National Labor Relations Act,” from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the firm’s offices at 33 Elliot St., Springfield. Brice will discuss the dangers of union activity in a non-union environment, as well as other updates and changes to enforcement of the National Labor Relations Act that have occurred in the past year. The cost is $30 per person. Payments should be mailed to, and checks made payable to, the Royal Law Firm. Registration is required, and seating will be limited. Email Heather Child at [email protected] to register or with any questions about this seminar.

 

Get Hired Job Fair

April 17: Holyoke Mall will host its spring job fair from 2 to 5 p.m. on the lower level near Macy’s. The Get Hired Job Fair is a convenient opportunity for Western Mass. employers to interview and hire workers, and to help job seekers connect with businesses who need their skills. Employers from a variety of industries will be in attendance, looking for candidates at all skill levels. The event is free to attend for all job seekers. Employers that have already signed up to staff a table include Baystate Health, PeoplesBank, Holyoke Community College, YMCA Greater Springfield, and more. Last year, the September job fair drew more than 40 employers, representing more than 10 industries, and nearly 400 candidates. Employers interested in participating in the upcoming job fair should contact Jim Geraghty, advertising representative for Holyoke Mall, at (617) 840-2998 or [email protected].

 

YWCA Golf Tournament

May 6: The YWCA of Western Massachusetts Golf Tournament will be held at Springfield Country Club, with registration now open online at ywworks.org. Proceeds of the charity golf tournament will support the Children Who Witness Violence program, which offers therapy for children who have witnessed or experienced abuse and violence. The Healthy and Empowering Relationship Education program of the YWCA, which helps Springfield middle- and high-schoolers learn about healthy relationships and friendships, will also benefit from proceeds raised at the tournament. Cost per golfer to participate in the tournament is $155, which includes golf, cart, lunch, dinner, and a quarter-zip jacket. There will be a raffle and cash bar at the country club. Individuals or organizations interested in registering or sponsoring the event can visit ywworks.org.

 

Pioneer Valley Conference for Women

May 9: The third annual Pioneer Valley Conference for Women will be held at Marriott Springfield Downtown from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The conference will be held in person and virtually. This year’s theme is “Unleashed.” Christina Royal will serve as emcee for the conference. The former president of Holyoke Community College, Royal is now president and CEO of Infinite Unlearning LLC, a woman-, BIPOC-, and queer-owned executive coaching and consultancy service supporting mid- to senior leaders and their organizations. Keynote speakers are Meghan Rothschild, president and owner of the marketing and public-relations firm Chikmedia, and Jessika Rozki, founder of Rozki Rides, a transportation service focusing on children and seniors. The conference will also feature 10 different panels that women can choose to attend in the morning and afternoon. The 30 panelists are all local women. Dianne Fuller Doherty will be presented with the Goddess Award, recognizing her many years of volunteer work on behalf of women. A comedy kickoff reception the night before the conference will feature comedian Jess Miller. Visit ow.ly/qgYJ50QK85h for more information or to purchase tickets. Event sponsors include M&T Bank, Westfield Bank, Liberty Bank, Country Bank, and USI.

 

Free Shred Days

June 8, 22: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at locations: Saturday, June 8 at 770 Main St., Agawam; and Saturday, June 22 at 241 Northampton St., Easthampton (two trucks at this event). No appointment is necessary. Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, $10 from every paid team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For inquiries, email [email protected].

Picture This

By
Baystate Health and Audacy Springfield
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Healthy Support for a Good Cause

The annual 94.7 WMAS Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon, held on March 5-6, raised $289,355 in support of Baystate Children’s Hospital. Throughout the two-day event, WMAS personalities spearheaded fundraising efforts, rallying listeners and supporters to contribute to the cause and make a difference in the lives of children facing medical challenges.

Baystate Health and Audacy Springfield

Pictured: the Kellogg Krew’s Chris Kellogg (left) and Dina McMahon (third from left) with one of the families that received treatment at Baystate Children’s Hospital. (Photo courtesy of Baystate Health and Audacy Springfield)

 

 

Empowerment and Inspiration

Springfield Technical Community College capped off its celebration of Black History Month on Feb. 29 with an inspiring talk by Ilyasah Shabazz, an award-winning author, educator, and producer, and daughter of the late activists Malcolm X and Betty Shabazz. She spoke about historical injustices and offered a message of empowerment and social change. She also shared engaging personal stories about her parents and addressed larger themes of social justice, love, and human rights.

STCC group

Pictured: Shabazz (second from left) with STCC students and Karolyn Burgos-Toribio, STCC’s Community Outreach counselor (far right). (Photo by Ed Cohen)

 

Positive Steps in Mental Health

During his Feb. 27 tour of the newly renovated adolescent unit at MiraVista Behavioral Health Center, U.S. Rep. Richard Neal called this age group a population that can be treated successfully, and the recently reopened unit “clearly a step in the right direction.” He was joined on the tour by Holyoke City Councilor Juan Anderson-Burgos and some of the psychiatric hospital’s executives.

MiraVista and TaraVista Behavioral Health Centers

Pictured, from left: Joel Doolin, executive vice president of MiraVista and TaraVista Behavioral Health Centers; Dr. Negar Beheshti, chief medical officer of MiraVista and TaraVista; Shelley Zimmerman, hospital administrator at MiraVista; and Neal.

 

 

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Agenda

Women’s Leadership Conference

April 4: Bay Path University announced that real-estate legend, investor, best-selling author, entrepreneur, producer, and Shark Tank shark Barbara Corcoran will be the keynote speaker at the 27th Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC), taking place at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield. The WLC will also feature lunchtime speaker Amy Purdy, a three-time Paralympic medalist in snowboarding for Team USA. This year’s conference will also feature breakout sessions led by business experts and authors, including Yvonne Camus, the former COO of SPINCO, Canada’s largest indoor cycling brand and the only female to outperform the Navy Seals in the multi-terrain adventure race known as Eco-Challenge. In addition, the WLC will welcome Sylvia Baffour, an author, podcast host, and emotional-intelligence coach recently ranked by HubSpot among the top 15 female motivational speakers. For further information on the 2024 conference, sponsorship information, and ticket sales, visit baypath.edu/wlc.

 

Margarita Madness

April 4: The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce will host its largest event of the year, Margarita Madness, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Interskate 91 at the Hampshire Mall. Attendees will network and enjoy an evening of tasty margaritas and vote for this year’s fan favorite. Local restaurants showcase their culinary skills, and dozens of raffle prizes are donated by Amherst Area Chamber members. The event’s presenting sponsor is TommyCar Auto Group, and the supporting sponsor is Hampshire Mall. The cost is $35 pre-registered or $45 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Emergency Department. Visit business.amherstarea.com/events/details/2024-margarita-madness-24121 to purchase tickets.

 

Difference Makers 

April 10: The 16th annual Difference Makers Gala will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Since 2009, BusinessWest has been recognizing the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions through this recognition program. The 2024 Difference Makers — profiled in the Feb. 19 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com — are Matt Bannister, senior vice president, Marketing and Corporate Responsibility, PeoplesBank; Delcie Bean, CEO, Paragus Strategic I.T.; Linda Dunlavy, executive director, Franklin Regional Council of Governments; Dr. Fred and Mary Kay Kadushin, co-founders, Feed the Kids; Scott Keiter, CEO, Keiter; the staff of Rock 102; Shannon Rudder, president and CEO, Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services; and Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Springfield Chamber Players. Tickets cost $95 each, with reserved tables of 10-12 available and available now through March 29. Partner sponsors for the 2024 Difference Makers include Burkhart, Pizzanelli, P.C., Keiter, Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health, the Royal Law Firm, and TommyCar Auto Group. Supporting sponsors include the Springfield Thunderbirds and Westfield Bank. For more event details and to reserve tickets, visit businesswest.com/difference-makers/difference-makers-tickets.

 

Common Threads

April 11: Common Threads, the signature event of Dress for Success Western Massachusetts (DFSWM), will take place from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Common Threads will feature networking, a sit-down dinner, and a silent auction leading into a program that will highlight multiple local women who have made significant strides toward financial stability and personal goals. Award-winning weeknight evening anchor Ciara Speller of WWLP 22News will be the emcee for the event. LaTonia Monroe Naylor, school committee representative, small-business entrepreneur, gunshot survivor, author, nonprofit founder, wife, and mother, will serve as the keynote speaker. During the event, Sarai Arroyo of West Springfield Public Schools and a student at Holyoke Community College will be given the Distinguished Alumna Award, Tammy Hickey will be honored as Volunteer of the Year, and Jessica Dupont of Alliant Health Plans, a DFSWM past board president, will be recognized as an Outstanding Contributor. All proceeds support DFSWM’s mission to provide women and non-binary people in the community with the tools and network of support to achieve financial independence. Local programs include the Foot in the Door workforce-readiness program, the Margaret Fitzgerald Mentorship Program, the Professional Women’s Group, a digital-literacy program, and the suiting program. The event will feature opportunities to donate to the work of Dress for Success Western Massachusetts. Tickets, which cost $75 each, are available until April 1 at www.dfswm.org.

 

Get Hired Job Fair

April 17: Holyoke Mall will host its spring job fair from 2 to 5 p.m. on the lower level near Macy’s. The Get Hired Job Fair is a convenient opportunity for Western Mass. employers to interview and hire workers, and to help job seekers connect with businesses who need their skills. Employers from a variety of industries will be in attendance, looking for candidates at all skill levels. The event is free to attend for all job seekers. Employers that have already signed up to staff a table include Baystate Health, PeoplesBank, Holyoke Community College, YMCA Greater Springfield, and more. Last year, the September job fair drew more than 40 employers, representing more than 10 industries, and nearly 400 candidates. Employers interested in participating in the upcoming job fair should contact Jim Geraghty, advertising representative for Holyoke Mall, at (617) 840-2998 or [email protected].

 

YWCA Golf Tournament

May 6: The YWCA of Western Massachusetts Golf Tournament will be held at Springfield Country Club, with registration now open online at ywworks.org. Proceeds of the charity golf tournament will support the Children Who Witness Violence program, which offers therapy for children who have witnessed or experienced abuse and violence. The Healthy and Empowering Relationship Education program of the YWCA, which helps Springfield middle- and high-schoolers learn about healthy relationships and friendships, will also benefit from proceeds raised at the tournament. Cost per golfer to participate in the tournament is $155, which includes golf, cart, lunch, dinner, and a quarter-zip jacket. There will be a raffle and cash bar at the country club. Individuals or organizations interested in registering or sponsoring the event can visit ywworks.org.

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, providing $10 from every paid team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For inquiries, email [email protected].

Picture This

By
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Brrrrrr

The polar plunge and draft horse wagon rides were just two highlights of Winterfest 2024, a series of events, culminating on Feb. 11, presented by the Nashawannuck Pond Steering Committee as a fundraiser for the committee’s cleanup and preservation efforts in and around the pond in Easthampton. The committee’s annual maintenance and operating costs are approximately $10,000, which is why Winterfest is so important.

Photo by Colin McGahan

 

 

Special Experience

American International College (AIC) hosted the 2024 Western Massachusetts Basketball League Tournament for Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOMA) at AIC’s Butova Gym on Jan. 21, Feb. 4, and Feb. 17. The campus community supported three weekends of games, with student volunteers assisting with scoring and timing, student-athletes interacting with players, and others cheering from the stands, creating an uplifting experience for the 79 SOMA participants.

Photo by AIC student Swastik Chuke

 

 

Welcome Home

Bluebird Estates, a Holiday by Atria independent-living community in East Longmeadow, recently completed a renovation project for capital upgrades in design and amenities. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Feb. 22 with state Sen. Jacob Oliveira, state Rep. Brian Ashe, East Longmeadow Town Manager Thomas Christensen, Deputy Town Manager Rebecca Lisi, and others, followed by refreshments, live entertainment, and community tours.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Feb. 22 with state Sen. Jacob Oliveira, state Rep. Brian Ashe, East Longmeadow Town Manager Thomas Christensen, Deputy Town Manager Rebecca Lisi, and others, followed by refreshments, live entertainment, and community tours.

 

 

Shining Stars

The Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce hosted its 39th annual Shining Stars Awards Gala, themed “The Greatest Show in Chicopee,” on March 1 at the Castle of Knights in Chicopee. Presented by Westfield Bank, this year’s event featured performers from SHOW Circus Studio in Easthampton roaming about the event.  (Photos by Michael Epaul Photography)

The evening’s hosts, Hayley Procon (left) and Jeremy Procon (right), present the Business of the Year honor to Michelle and Peter Wirth of Mercedes-Benz of Springfield

 

Citizen of the Year Ashley Kohl with her “ohana,” which is Hawaiian for family

 

a group of attendees, including Amie Miarecki and Tracey Alves-Lear from Nonprofit of the Year Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts, along with Volunteer of the Year Daryl Grabowski, pose for a selfie with a stilt walker

 

 

 

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Agenda

Pynchon Award Nominations

Through March 31: The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts is seeking nominations from throughout Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, and Berkshire counties for the Pynchon Award, which recognizes area citizens who have rendered outstanding service to the community. To nominate an individual, submit a letter explaining why the nominee should be considered. Be sure to include biographical information, outstanding accomplishments, examples of service to the community, organizations he or she is or has been active in, and the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least three people who can further attest to the nominee’s eligibility for induction into the Order of William Pynchon. The Pynchon trustees reserve the right to eliminate nominations from consideration due to insufficient information. Qualifying nominees will be considered and researched by the Pynchon trustees, composed of the current and five past presidents of the Advertising Club. Nominations should be submitted to William Pynchon Trustees, Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, P.O. Box 1022, West Springfield, MA 01090-1022 or by email to [email protected]. The 2024 recipients will be announced in June, with an awards ceremony tentatively scheduled for the fall.

 

Spirit of Girls Fundraiser

March 22: Girls Inc. of the Valley’s annual major fundraiser is back at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Spirit of Girls: Rewind // Fast Forward features co-lead sponsors PeoplesBank and the Women’s Foundation of Boston. Guests and attendees will hear the impactful stories of Girls Inc. youth, families, alumni, and more. The evening will include heavy appetizers and a cash bar. Girls Inc. of the Valley is actively seeking sponsors and volunteers to support the event. Sponsors include PeoplesBank, the Women’s Foundation of Boston, Hazen Paper Co., bankESB, BonaVita Aesthetics, the Collins Companies, Monson Savings Bank, SourcePass, UMass Amherst, Parker’s Portables, Kuhn Riddle Architects, and the Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts.

 

Bay Path President’s Gala

March 23: Bay Path University announced its fifth President’s Gala, themed “Breaking Through,” will be held at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The evening will begin with a 5:30 p.m. VIP reception, followed by dinner, program presentations, and dancing. Tickets can be purchased by visiting baypath.edu/gala or calling (413) 565-1063. The gala will focus on supporting learners enrolled in healthcare degree programs, recognizing their resilience and dedication. Like many regions across the country, Western Mass. faces shortages in many healthcare professions, including primary-care physicians, nurses, and mental-health providers. Through its more than 20 undergraduate and graduate healthcare degrees, Bay Path is educating and training future healthcare workers to be on the front line of helping to keep communities safe and healthy. Proceeds from the gala will directly contribute to scholarships, resources, and initiatives that benefit learners pursuing healthcare degrees, reinforcing Bay Path University’s commitment to fostering excellence in the healthcare field, she added. Both healthcare policy and advocacy play crucial roles in shaping the healthcare landscape in Western Mass. To that end, U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and Sr. Mary Caritas, SP will be honorary chairs for this event. To view a full list of gala committee members, sponsors, and additional event details, visit baypath.edu/gala.

 

Second Chance Dinner Auction

March 23: Tickets for the 25th annual Second Chance Dinner Auction are now available for purchase. This significant fundraising event marks the kickoff of Second Chance Animal Services’ year-long 25th-anniversary celebration, promising an evening of philanthropy and joy to benefit homeless shelter pets in need of veterinary care. The event will take place at the La Salle Reception Center in Southbridge. The evening will commence with a cocktail hour at 4 p.m., giving attendees the opportunity to peruse and bid on myriad silent-auction items and try their luck with raffle prizes. The main event unfolds with dinner at 6 p.m., followed by the highlight of the night, the auction. Tickets are $55 per person with the option to reserve a table of nine for $495. The success of the event relies on the generosity of sponsors and item donors. Second Chance encourages businesses and individuals to consider lending their support by becoming a sponsor or contributing items. As noted, the event features both a silent and live auction featuring hundreds of items ranging from gift certificates for local businesses and restaurants to gift baskets and everything in between. To enhance the auction experience, a selection of gift cards and small, easy-to-ship items will be available for advance online bidding March 14-21. For those interested in sponsoring, donating items, or attending the event, complete information and tickets can be found at www.secondchanceanimals.org/dinner-auction.

 

Women’s Leadership Conference

April 4: Bay Path University announced that real-estate legend, investor, best-selling author, entrepreneur, producer, and Shark Tank shark Barbara Corcoran will be the keynote speaker at the 27th Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC), taking place at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield. Corcoran has been an investor/shark on ABC’s four-time Emmy award-winning show Shark Tank for 10 seasons, investing in more than 80 businesses to date. She chronicled her rise from waiting tables in a New York diner to heading a $5 billion real-estate company in her bestselling book, Shark Tales: How I Turned $1,000 into a Billion Dollar Business! She’ll bring her personal brand of no-nonsense wisdom and supportive advice to the more than 1,600 attendees who are expected to attend this year’s WLC. The WLC will also feature lunchtime speaker Amy Purdy, a three-time Paralympic medalist in snowboarding for Team USA. This year’s conference will also feature breakout sessions led by business experts and authors, including Yvonne Camus, the former COO of SPINCO, Canada’s largest indoor cycling brand and the only female to outperform the Navy Seals in the multi-terrain adventure race known as Eco-Challenge. In addition, the WLC will welcome Sylvia Baffour, an author, podcast host, and emotional-intelligence coach recently ranked by HubSpot among the top 15 female motivational speakers. Additional keynote and breakout session speakers will be announced soon. For further information on the 2024 conference, sponsorship information, and ticket sales, visit baypath.edu/wlc.

 

Margarita Madness

April 4: The Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce will host its largest event of the year, Margarita Madness, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Interskate 91 at the Hampshire Mall. Attendees will network and enjoy an evening of tasty margaritas and vote for this year’s fan favorite. Local restaurants showcase their culinary skills, and dozens of raffle prizes are donated by Amherst Area Chamber members. The event’s presenting sponsor is TommyCar Auto Group, and the supporting sponsor is Hampshire Mall. The cost is $35 pre-registered or $45 at the door. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s Emergency Department. Visit business.amherstarea.com/events/details/2024-margarita-madness-24121 to purchase tickets.

 

Difference Makers 

April 10: The 16th annual Difference Makers Gala will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Since 2009, BusinessWest has been recognizing the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions through this recognition program. The 2024 Difference Makers — profiled in the Feb. 19 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com — are Matt Bannister, senior vice president, Marketing and Corporate Responsibility, PeoplesBank; Delcie Bean, CEO, Paragus Strategic I.T.; Linda Dunlavy, executive director, Franklin Regional Council of Governments; Dr. Fred and Mary Kay Kadushin, co-founders, Feed the Kids; Scott Keiter, CEO, Keiter; the staff of Rock 102; Shannon Rudder, president and CEO, Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services; and Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Springfield Chamber Players. Tickets cost $95 each, with reserved tables of 10-12 available and available now through March 29. Partner sponsors for the 2024 Difference Makers include Burkhart, Pizzanelli, P.C., Keiter, Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health, the Royal Law Firm, and TommyCar Auto Group. Supporting sponsors include the Springfield Thunderbirds and Westfield Bank. For more event details and to reserve tickets, visit businesswest.com/difference-makers/difference-makers-tickets.

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner.

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94.7 WMAS Radiothon for Baystate Children’s Hospital

March 5-6: The public is invited to stop in at this year’s 23rd annual 94.7 WMAS Radiothon for Baystate Children’s Hospital at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Hundreds of inspiring stories come out of Baystate Children’s Hospital every year, some of which will be told during this year’s event. While attending this year’s event, the public can have their photo taken on the red carpet, make a donation, and get a sneak peek of the Kellogg Krew broadcasting live. Radiothon hours are from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Donating is easy by phone or text as well as online. Listeners can call to donate via the Lia Auto Group Phone Bank at (413) 794-1111 on March 5 and 6 from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. or visit wmaskids.com. Major sponsors for the Radiothon include Hyundai Hope on Wheels, Lia Auto Group, Pioneer Valley Credit Union, Eversource, M&T Bank, City Tire, and PeoplesBank.

 

Western Mass Runners Hall of Fame Induction

March 8: The Western Mass Runners Hall of Fame (WMRHoF) board of directors announced the inductees of the third class. Since its inception, the WMRHoF has celebrated outstanding contributors to the running community, with its first class inducted in 2020 and the second in 2022. The third class inductees are Ric Bourie, Mary Cobb, Howard Drew, Sue Haryasz, Rich Larsen, Nicole McGilpin, Bob Neil, Bill Romito, Ed Sandifer, and John Stifler. In addition to these distinguished individuals, the charity organization Griffin’s Friends, which has supported children with cancer and their families for decades in the Springfield area by running and raising funds, will be inducted. Also, Neal Lamberton, a runner who has volunteered his time to the running community for years, will receive the Brian Goddu Volunteer of the Year Award, founded in memory of Goddu, a founding board member of the Western Mass Runners Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. at the Holyoke Elks Lodge. The guest speaker will be Bob Hodge, third-place finisher in the 1979 Boston Marathon, multiple Mount Washington Road Race champion, 40-year course record holder on the DH Jones/Amherst 10 Mile Course, and author of Tale of the Times. Tickets for the dinner and ceremony are priced at $20 and are available for purchase at www.runreg.com/w-mass-runners-hall-of-fame-induction-banquet. For those unable to attend but wishing to support the WMRHoF mission, donations are welcome via the RunReg website.

 

Bay Path President’s Gala

March 23: Bay Path University announced its fifth President’s Gala, themed “Breaking Through,” will be held at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The evening will begin with a 5:30 p.m. VIP reception, followed by dinner, program presentations, and dancing. Tickets can be purchased by visiting baypath.edu/gala or calling (413) 565-1063. The gala will focus on supporting learners enrolled in healthcare degree programs, recognizing their resilience and dedication. Like many regions across the country, Western Mass. faces shortages in many healthcare professions, including primary-care physicians, nurses, and mental-health providers. Through its more than 20 undergraduate and graduate healthcare degrees, Bay Path is educating and training future healthcare workers to be on the front line of helping to keep communities safe and healthy. Proceeds from the gala will directly contribute to scholarships, resources, and initiatives that benefit learners pursuing healthcare degrees, reinforcing Bay Path University’s commitment to fostering excellence in the healthcare field, she added. Both healthcare policy and advocacy play crucial roles in shaping the healthcare landscape in Western Mass. To that end, U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and Sr. Mary Caritas, SP will be honorary chairs for this event. To view a full list of gala committee members, sponsors, and additional event details, visit baypath.edu/gala.

 

Second Chance Dinner Auction

March 23: Tickets for the 25th annual Second Chance Dinner Auction are now available for purchase. This significant fundraising event marks the kickoff of Second Chance Animal Services’ year-long 25th-anniversary celebration, promising an evening of philanthropy and joy to benefit homeless shelter pets in need of veterinary care. The event will take place at the La Salle Reception Center in Southbridge. The evening will commence with a cocktail hour at 4 p.m., giving attendees the opportunity to peruse and bid on myriad silent-auction items and try their luck with raffle prizes. The main event unfolds with dinner at 6 p.m., followed by the highlight of the night, the auction. Tickets are $55 per person with the option to reserve a table of nine for $495. The success of the event relies on the generosity of sponsors and item donors. Second Chance encourages businesses and individuals to consider lending their support by becoming a sponsor or contributing items. As noted, the event features both a silent and live auction featuring hundreds of items ranging from gift certificates for local businesses and restaurants to gift baskets and everything in between. To enhance the auction experience, a selection of gift cards and small, easy-to-ship items will be available for advance online bidding March 14-21. For those interested in sponsoring, donating items, or attending the event, complete information and tickets can be found at www.secondchanceanimals.org/dinner-auction.

 

Women’s Leadership Conference

April 4: Bay Path University announced that real-estate legend, investor, best-selling author, entrepreneur, producer, and Shark Tank shark Barbara Corcoran will be the keynote speaker at the 27th Women’s Leadership Conference (WLC), taking place at the MassMutual Center in downtown Springfield. Corcoran has been an investor/shark on ABC’s four-time Emmy award-winning show Shark Tank for 10 seasons, investing in more than 80 businesses to date. She chronicled her rise from waiting tables in a New York diner to heading a $5 billion real-estate company in her bestselling book, Shark Tales: How I Turned $1,000 into a Billion Dollar Business! She’ll bring her personal brand of no-nonsense wisdom and supportive advice to the more than 1,600 attendees who are expected to attend this year’s WLC. The WLC will also feature lunchtime speaker Amy Purdy, a three-time Paralympic medalist in snowboarding for Team USA. Throughout her life, Purdy has taken on obstacles and broken through, making her way into the upper echelons of athletics, onto the dance floor of Dancing with the Stars, and onto the New York Times bestseller list as the author of On My Own Two Feet: From Losing My Legs to Learning the Dance of Life. She co-founded Adaptive Action Sports for athletes with disabilities and is the host of the critically acclaimed podcast Bouncing Forward! Her work has led her to be labeled a “hero” by Oprah Winfrey and has made her one of the most in-demand motivational and corporate speakers on the globe. This year’s conference will also feature breakout sessions led by business experts and authors, including Yvonne Camus, the former COO of SPINCO, Canada’s largest indoor cycling brand and the only female to outperform the Navy Seals in the multi-terrain adventure race known as Eco-Challenge. In addition, the WLC will welcome Sylvia Baffour, an author, podcast host, and emotional-intelligence coach. For further information on the 2024 conference, sponsorship information, and ticket sales, visit baypath.edu/wlc.

 

Difference Makers 

April 10: The 16th annual Difference Makers Gala will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Since 2009, BusinessWest has been recognizing the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions through this recognition program. The 2024 Difference Makers — profiled in the Feb. 19 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com — are Matt Bannister, senior vice president, Marketing and Corporate Responsibility, PeoplesBank; Delcie Bean, CEO, Paragus Strategic I.T.; Linda Dunlavy, executive director, Franklin Regional Council of Governments; Dr. Fred and Mary Kay Kadushin, co-founders, Feed the Kids; Scott Keiter, CEO, Keiter; the staff of Rock 102; Shannon Rudder, president and CEO, Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services; and Springfield Symphony Orchestra and Springfield Chamber Players. Tickets cost $95 each, with reserved tables of 10-12 available and available now through March 29. Partner sponsors for the 2024 Difference Makers include Burkhart, Pizzanelli, P.C., Keiter, Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health, the Royal Law Firm, and TommyCar Auto Group. Supporting sponsors include the Springfield Thunderbirds and Westfield Bank. For more event details and to reserve tickets, visit businesswest.com/difference-makers/difference-makers-tickets.

 

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner.