SPRINGFIELD — DevelopSpringfield hosted an event on May 29 to mark the two-year anniversary of the Rebuild Springfield Plan release and to commemorate the third anniversary of the June 1, 2011 tornado. City officials, volunteers, contributors, residents, and other stakeholders gathered on Central Street to hear remarks highlighting Rebuild Springfield Plan progress. Attendees were provided an opportunity to tour newly rebuilt homes in the severely tornado-damaged Central Street corridor. The Rebuild Springfield Plan is a city-wide master plan designed to provide a framework for addressing the redevelopment needs of neighborhoods impacted by the June 2011 tornado. Additionally, the plan serves as a guide for addressing a wide range of issues relevant to the city as a whole. DevelopSpringfield, in partnership with the Springfield Redevelopment Authority, facilitated the planning process, which included the input of city residents and stakeholders and was published in the spring of 2012. The recent gathering featured remarks by Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno; Jay Minkarah, president and CEO of DevelopSpringfield; Nick Fyntrilakis, DevelopSpringfield board chair and vice president of Community Responsibility for MassMutual Financial Group; Bishop Bruce Shaw, pastor of New Hope Pentecostal Church; Melvin Edwards, city councilor and Maple High/Six Corners Neighborhood Council president; Tim Allen, city councilor; Steven Bradley, DevelopSpringfield board member and vice president of Government and Community Relations and Public Relations for Baystate Health; Jose Claudio, DevelopSpringfield board member and director of Community Development for the New North Citizens’ Council and speaking on behalf of the North End Housing Initiative; and Alberto Ayala, speaking on behalf of VIVA Development. All of the speakers played a role in planning and rebuilding efforts in the city. They noted that the new homes and cleanup in the Central Street corridor are clear signs of rebirth in that neighborhood, with construction of the new Elias Brookings School in the background. With the assistance of federal, state, and city investment, progress is being made on several other key projects, including plans for construction of a New South End Community Center at Mason Wight Park. Trees have been planted, parks rehabilitated, and the Dryden Memorial School rehabilitated, among many other signs of physical improvements since the tornado. Beyond the response to the challenges brought on by the tornado, the plan also provides a framework to advance other important community priorities throughout the city. Progress on these fronts is also evident in many ways, including work in addressing educational and workforce-training priorities; efforts to highlight cultural assets, including the designation of the Springfield Central Cultural District downtown; enhanced public safety programs; and cohesive and collaborative economic-development initiatives to attract business and permanent jobs to the city. The full plan is available at www.developspringfield.com. DevelopSpringfield also announced the publication of the Rebuild Springfield Progress Report 2014. Developed in collaboration with many volunteers who participated in the Rebuild Springfield planning process, the report highlights many of the plan’s priorities. It is available online at www.developspringfield.com; in print at DevelopSpringfield offices at 1182 Main St. in Springfield; and will be distributed in the Republican on June 5. A Spanish-language version will be available soon and distributed throughout the community and also online.
The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
ASHFIELD
665 Baptist Corner Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Jasper McChesney
Seller: Michelle L. Carter
Date: 04/30/14
BERNARDSTON
145 Merrifield Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Jason R. Baklavas
Seller: Kerry C. Heathwaite
Date: 05/01/14
62 Shedd Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Mark J. Vallee
Seller: Wesley J. Platek
Date: 04/22/14
BUCKLAND
150 Bray Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Courtney Zarish
Seller: Bryn C. Francis
Date: 05/02/14
2 Harmony Lane
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $145,900
Buyer: Carrie A. Ledoyt
Seller: Greenfield Savings Bank
Date: 04/22/14
37 North St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Darren E. Fight
Seller: Carl D. Schatz
Date: 04/30/14
CONWAY
45 Baptist Hill Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Joan R. Schwartz
Seller: Anita Elise Rymer TR
Date: 04/30/14
46 Delabarre Ave.
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Amanda L. Nash
Seller: JP Morgan Chase Bank
Date: 04/23/14
DEERFIELD
278 Conway Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: John R. White
Seller: Deborah F. Oeky
Date: 04/24/14
36 Old Main St.
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Deerfield Academy
Seller: Kenneth S. Williams
Date: 04/23/14
ERVING
35 Forest St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Karla J. Herzig-Doherty
Seller: Shawn M. Johnson
Date: 04/30/14
44 Mountain Road
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Alma D. Mankowsky
Seller: James A. Taft
Date: 04/22/14
GREENFIELD
335 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Andrew J. Lively
Seller: Earley, Robert P., (Estate)
Date: 04/25/14
12 Cypress St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Addison L. Massa
Seller: Nathan O’Rourke
Date: 04/29/14
43 Cypress St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Jeremy M. Felton
Seller: Lauren K. Saczawa
Date: 04/23/14
155 Federal St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Emmalyn Hicks
Seller: Francis L. McDonald
Date: 04/24/14
296 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $118,500
Buyer: Daniel D. Garant
Seller: Helen C. Cobb
Date: 04/30/14
430 Mohawk Trail
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $118,000
Buyer: Vera Filobokova
Seller: Thomas D. Lewis
Date: 05/02/14
216 Munson St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Pavel Angelchev
Seller: James R. Fowler
Date: 04/30/14
13 Pierce St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Richard M. Henry
Seller: Peter B. Roberts
Date: 04/30/14
373 Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Paul D. Eldridge
Seller: Robart W. Martin
Date: 04/30/14
HEATH
375 Route 8A North
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $209,900
Buyer: Enrico Mezzacappa
Seller: Julie A. Howe
Date: 04/30/14
MONTAGUE
44 Coolidge Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Daniel G. Brooks
Seller: Kurt A. Gilmore
Date: 04/28/14
12 James Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Benjamin J. Tozloski
Seller: Helen L. Pearson
Date: 04/23/14
14 Keith St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Robert C. Eaton
Seller: Wayne R. Allen
Date: 05/02/14
35 North Leverett Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $128,333
Buyer: Thomas S. Norwood
Seller: 39 North Leverett RT
Date: 04/30/14
37 North Leverett Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $128,333
Buyer: Thomas S. Norwood
Seller: 39 North Leverett RT
Date: 04/30/14
39 North Leverett Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $128,333
Buyer: Thomas S. Norwood
Seller: 39 North Leverett RT
Date: 04/30/14
NORTHFIELD
294 Birnam Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Emily J. Koester
Seller: Northfield Mt. Hermon School
Date: 05/02/14
ORANGE
44 Meadow Lane
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Elaine Dadah
Seller: MHFA
Date: 04/29/14
5 Sunset Dr.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Anthony M. Brosca
Seller: Hilda D. Cogswell
Date: 04/25/14
SHUTESBURY
59 Briggs Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $156,500
Buyer: Jamie H. Sullivan
Seller: Richard F. Paczkowski
Date: 04/22/14
51 Merrill Dr.
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Kathleen A. Salvador
Seller: Carol A. Balakier
Date: 04/28/14
HAMPDEN COUNTY
AGAWAM
64 Adams St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: VIP Homes & Associates LLC
Seller: Lucille G. Harpin
Date: 05/01/14
55 Annable St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Melissa Oliveira
Seller: Luigi Chiarella
Date: 04/25/14
22 Belvidere Ave.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Anthony Liquori
Seller: Carlos M. Afonso
Date: 04/30/14
112 Cooley St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Liberato Management Co. Inc.
Seller: Frederick W. Richter
Date: 04/22/14
33 Cynthia Place
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $349,900
Buyer: Nicholas A. Pisano
Seller: Thomas A. Goodrow
Date: 04/25/14
48 Juniper Ridge Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Stephen N. Papadoulias
Seller: James A. Pafumi
Date: 04/30/14
69 Line St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Jason A. Root
Seller: Petr Privedenyuk
Date: 04/30/14
723 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Ascioti Vincunas LLC
Seller: 723 Main St. Agawam LLC
Date: 05/01/14
157 Meadowbrook Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Douglas E. Bernier
Seller: Scott T. Laviano
Date: 04/25/14
106 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $222,000
Buyer: Moquin FT
Seller: Jane E. Fazio
Date: 04/30/14
104 Reed St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Butchie L. Donald
Seller: Kenneth A. Elkas
Date: 04/30/14
216 School St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: Arnold Lovely
Seller: Ronald F. Ennaco
Date: 05/02/14
150 Southwick St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $281,000
Buyer: Aaron M. Jones
Seller: Kathleen A. Kelley
Date: 04/29/14
75 Spruce Circle
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Lee E. Smith
Seller: Eric W. Gaylord
Date: 04/24/14
41 Stewart Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $231,039
Buyer: Midfirst Bank
Seller: Edward A. Burinskas
Date: 05/01/14
43 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Anthony R. Boido
Seller: Diane Vanpelt
Date: 04/25/14
41 Trinity Terrace
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Nicholas E. Gingras
Seller: Anthony M. Ruscio
Date: 04/22/14
BRIMFIELD
55 Brookfield Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Joel J. Klys
Seller: Thomas A. Russo
Date: 04/25/14
83 Cubles Dr.
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Michael P. Hogan
Seller: Mark Demerski
Date: 04/30/14
84 Champeaux Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: David W. Schermerhorn
Seller: Jose M. Martinez
Date: 04/23/14
Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Aura Enterprises Inc.
Seller: Laura P. May
Date: 04/30/14
CHICOPEE
64 Artisan St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Isacc Martinez
Seller: Bombardier, Marian B., (Estate)
Date: 04/23/14
4 Burton St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Legacy Realty Associates
Seller: TMT Services LLC
Date: 05/02/14
Celestine St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: 91 East Park Inc.
Seller: 18 Piece Chicopee LLC
Date: 05/02/14
27 Charpentier Blvd.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $153,000
Buyer: Michael J. Holmes
Seller: Michael C. Waite
Date: 04/30/14
41 Chestnut St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: D. Serrano-Cordero
Seller: Chicopee Neighborhood Development
Date: 04/24/14
33 Dayton St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Manuel F. Lucio
Seller: Jeffrey R. Jochim
169 Fletcher Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Lois Delisle
Seller: Robert J. Walsh
Date: 04/30/14
143 Hampden St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $179,900
Buyer: Ion Barbaneagra
Seller: Sergey Savonin
Date: 04/28/14
59 Hendrick St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: August J. Schau
Seller: Adam L. Wilbur
Date: 05/02/14
4 Indian Park
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Chelsea L. Tatro
Seller: Ann L. Boskiewicz
Date: 04/30/14
74 Langevin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $129,000
Buyer: Valerie Jenkins
Seller: Du Con Properties LLC
Date: 05/01/14
4 Longwood Ct.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $197,000
Buyer: Laura A. Barrows
Seller: Orlando L. Gomes
Date: 04/28/14
14 Perry St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Joann M. Garelli
Seller: Katie M. Wilkins
Date: 04/25/14
74 Wallace Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: Nathan Jette
Seller: Mooney, James P., (Estate)
Date: 04/30/14
17 Woodcrest Ct.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $154,600
Buyer: Thomas Trudell
Seller: Carol Zimmermann
Date: 04/30/14
EAST LONGMEADOW
114 Canterbury Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Matthew D. Verdi
Seller: William H. McCauley
Date: 04/30/14
269 Elm St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Brian M. Liquore
Seller: Linda A. Somers
Date: 04/24/14
10 John St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Bruce A. Millen
Seller: Rochelle R. Stellato
Date: 04/30/14
6 Lester St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $208,000
Buyer: Kaitlin Kiely
Seller: Cheryl L. Ricciardi
Date: 04/29/14
56 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Vincent A. Vaicekauskas
Seller: Lee M. Hayward
Date: 04/30/14
GRANVILLE
808 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $269,600
Buyer: John M. Doherty
Seller: Richard M. Pierce
Date: 04/29/14
HAMPDEN
74 Wilbraham Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Laurie E. Martin
Seller: Virgilio Santos
Date: 04/30/14
HOLLAND
122 Maybrook Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Adam L. Wilbur
Seller: Teresa A. Lake
Date: 04/25/14
HOLYOKE
320 Appleton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Wang & Wang Enterprises Inc.
Seller: Windship Enterprises Inc.
Date: 04/30/14
20 Cranberry Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Andrew P. Carriveau
Seller: Melissa R. Brown
Date: 04/25/14
4 Deer Run
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Darlene M. Kubas
Seller: Wykowski, Donna, (Estate)
Date: 04/23/14
8 Field St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Marc C. Thompson
Seller: John T. Riley
Date: 04/30/14
8 Granville St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: James H. Lovett
Seller: James H. Woods
Date: 04/30/14
466 Hillside Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Juan Izquierdo
Seller: Ildefonso Izquierdo
Date: 04/23/14
22 Meggison Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Robert A. Roberts
Seller: Chad R. Donnelly
Date: 04/23/14
70 Merrick Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $149,350
Buyer: Georgette Giuglielmo
Seller: Finn, Mildred M., (Estate)
Date: 04/30/14
1669 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Crosstown Development LLC
Seller: Crosstown Realty LLC
Date: 05/01/14
3 Scott Hollow Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: James H. Woods
Seller: Wendy B. Keller
Date: 04/30/14
LONGMEADOW
218 Bliss Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Roberta C. Geiger
Seller: Ari S. Berman
Date: 04/30/14
11 Brookside Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $438,000
Buyer: Rafael A. Hernandez
Seller: Jay M. Ungar
Date: 04/24/14
70 Dennis Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Evan Y. Lau
Seller: Esther F. Bartels
Date: 04/28/14
108 Edgewood Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $268,000
Buyer: John W. Davis
Seller: Michael T. Jordan
Date: 04/25/14
N/A
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Haven Houses LLC
Seller: Jesse Berezin
Date: 05/02/14
24 Willett Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Thomas Neubauer
Seller: William R. Bullock
Date: 05/02/14
LUDLOW
24 Bucknell St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Maria H. Alves
Seller: Nelson G. Tereso
Date: 04/28/14
20 Park Terrace
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Matthew Iwasinski
Seller: Peter A. Mancuso
Date: 05/02/14
Parker Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Richard A. Cieplik
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 05/02/14
150 Rood St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Anna S. Rodrigo
Seller: Rose A. Midura
Date: 04/30/14
187 Ventura St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: David J. Knapp
Seller: Aaron C. Patterson
Date: 04/28/14
304 Ventura St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $347,000
Buyer: David E. Walsh
Seller: Diane Cady
Date: 04/30/14
214 Westerly Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $363,000
Buyer: Peter A. Mancuso
Seller: Garrett W. Balich
Date: 05/02/14
160 Whitney St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $140,500
Buyer: Michael F. Carvalho
Seller: Anthony Drozdowski
Date: 05/02/14
226 Winsor St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Faycal Serisser
Seller: Anthony S. Santos
Date: 05/01/14
MONSON
51 Crest Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: James A. Dirico
Seller: Jennifer S. Brauer
Date: 04/24/14
88 Lakeshore Dr.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $261,000
Buyer: Michael J. Edgett
Seller: Laura Melbin
Date: 04/29/14
52 Paradise Lake Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $157,500
Buyer: Benjamin K. Goulet
Seller: William B. Warren
Date: 05/02/14
9 Thompson St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $150,900
Buyer: Todd M. Allen
Seller: Susan J. Costa
Date: 04/29/14
PALMER
2252 Baptist Hill Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $224,900
Buyer: Ann E. Hyszczak
Seller: Ronald J. Czaplicki
Date: 04/30/14
114 Belchertown St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Pelissier
Seller: Philip A. Sawicki
Date: 04/29/14
44 Converse St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $202,000
Buyer: Mathew W. Walch
Seller: Gordon M. Merkel
Date: 04/30/14
311 Old Warren Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Buyer: Jerry J. Gaulin
Seller: Steven J. Obarowski
Date: 04/29/14
1051 Overlook Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $117,500
Buyer: Pamela Outhuse
Seller: FNMA
Date: 04/28/14
RUSSELL
62 Ridgewood Dr.
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Stephen Martin
Seller: Merrill, Brian P., (Estate)
Date: 04/30/14
SPRINGFIELD
16 Abbott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Ramon A. Santini
Seller: Delmar C. Wilcox
Date: 04/22/14
20 Acushnet Ave.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $151,978
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Kimberly Barros
Date: 04/22/14
43 Appleton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $134,000
Buyer: Arnold L. Lemboet
Seller: Peter J. Houser
Date: 04/25/14
60 Brookdale Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $1,075,000
Buyer: Human Resources Unlimited
Seller: Lyons Real Estate LLC
Date: 05/01/14
881 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Sagheer Nawaz
Seller: Christine K. Berte
Date: 04/28/14
138 Colton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Springfield Ventures TR
Seller: Robert C. Andrews
Date: 04/22/14
304 Commonwealth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $118,000
Buyer: Benjamin W. Wood
Seller: Barbara A. Kautz
Date: 04/25/14
Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $1,075,000
Buyer: Human Resources Unlimited
Seller: Lyons Real Estate LLC
Date: 05/01/14
15 Delaware Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Sticks & Stones Inc.
Seller: Rohan G. Jumpp
Date: 04/25/14
300 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Buyer: Adam R. St.Martin
Seller: Patrick J. Garrity
Date: 04/25/14
118 Fountain St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Gary Daula
Seller: Michael E. Chagnon
Date: 05/02/14
62 Groton St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $143,089
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Juan R. Figueroa
Date: 04/25/14
118 Harmon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Santos Mendez
Seller: Thomas R. Hatfield
Date: 05/01/14
88 Intervale Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Jennie R. Cash
Seller: Adam R. St.Martin
Date: 04/25/14
404 Island Pond Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Carol L. Suckau
Seller: Karen J. Morin
Date: 04/23/14
117 Louis Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $121,000
Buyer: James P. Lynch
Seller: George E. Desmarais
Date: 05/01/14
6 Louis Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $137,200
Buyer: Moises Morales
Seller: Kathleen D. McFadden
Date: 05/02/14
63 Magnolia Terrace
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $282,500
Buyer: Laura Fenn
Seller: Wayne J. Sakaske
Date: 04/25/14
259 Mallowhill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $141,000
Buyer: Aileen M. Santana
Seller: Audra Manewich
Date: 04/30/14
236 Oakland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Michael T. Sherlock
Seller: Sinikiwe Mahlatini
Date: 05/02/14
276 Oakland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Orange Park Management
Seller: Shakeel Ahmed
Date: 04/30/14
183 Patricia Circle
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $137,500
Buyer: Linda H. Zabaleta
Seller: VPH NPNR 14 LLC
Date: 04/23/14
22 Penncastle St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $173,900
Buyer: Pamela A. Curran
Seller: David E. Walsh
Date: 04/28/14
20 Primrose St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Brenda I. Rodriguez-Cotto
Seller: Ingrid Gartman
Date: 04/22/14
12 Skyridge Lane
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Casey L. Brown
Seller: Wilfred E. Thibodeau
Date: 05/01/14
27 Wachusett St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Chad Harrison
Seller: Amber J. Edwards
Date: 04/28/14
2402 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $140,500
Buyer: Jozlyn S. Goossens
Seller: Lisa Andre
Date: 04/30/14
188 Windemere St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Katherine C. Wheaton
Seller: Laplante Investments LLC
Date: 04/22/14
SOUTHWICK
185 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Hillside Development Corp.
Seller: Berkshire Bank
Date: 05/01/14
8 Depot St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: John E. Gravell
Seller: Kimberly J. Bombard
Date: 05/02/14
10 Evergreen St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: David A. Kraus
Seller: Kenneth P. Johnson
Date: 04/23/14
2 Gableview
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $578,000
Buyer: Kurt S. Shea
Seller: Lisa A. Pellegrini
Date: 04/25/14
17 George Loomis Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $138,543
Buyer: RBS Citizens
Seller: George R. Everett
Date: 05/01/14
12 Granaudo Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $201,500
Buyer: Kenneth Johnson
Seller: Raymond P. Lakota
Date: 04/25/14
221 Klaus Anderson Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Leonid A. Shut
Seller: Jason P. Gates
Date: 05/01/14
7 Klaus Anderson Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Patrick M. Levesque
Seller: Crossroads Property Investment
Date: 04/30/14
60 Lakeview St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Jennifer K. Bernier
Seller: F. P. Salzer
Date: 04/29/14
1 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $432,000
Buyer: Eric W. Lottermoser
Seller: Almeiro Serna
Date: 05/01/14
31 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $409,400
Buyer: Hongbo Li
Seller: David Rodrigues
Date: 05/02/14
36 Lexington Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Shaun M. Stack
Seller: Roberta C. Geiger
Date: 04/30/14
20 Sam West Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Justin R. Eisenbeiser
Seller: Shaun M. Stack
Date: 04/30/14
Sunnyside Road #4
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Richard A. Murdock
Seller: Laplante Construction Inc.
Date: 05/01/14
WALES
27 Main St.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $136,000
Buyer: Lisa M. Sheridan
Seller: Lariviere, Roger H., (Estate)
Date: 04/30/14
WESTFIELD
84 Barbara St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $222,000
Buyer: David E. Kingsley
Seller: James M. Mulvenna
Date: 04/25/14
86 Colony Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Gina Gioranino
Seller: Robert F. Nowak
Date: 04/30/14
Fowler St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Ronald E. Schortmann
Seller: Merchants Metals Inc.
Date: 04/23/14
69 Hillcrest Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Michael S. Patten
Seller: Sandra A. Schenna
Date: 04/30/14
15 Irene Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $258,900
Buyer: William J. Smithies
Seller: Daniel J. Asselin
Date: 05/02/14
129 Long Pond Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Lacey Blalock
Seller: US Bank
Date: 04/24/14
28 Magnolia Terrace
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Debra Mulvenna
Seller: Ferdinand Majka
Date: 04/25/14
70 Pequot Point Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $247,500
Buyer: Deborah D. Pijar
Seller: Jeffrey P. Gentes
Date: 04/25/14
11 Princeton St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Matthew C. Robidoux
Seller: Ralph E. Thresher
Date: 04/30/14
276 Prospect St. Ext.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Ivan A. Solokhin
Seller: Patrick A. Tallis
Date: 04/29/14
20 Stephanie Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Aspen Props. Holdings LLC
Seller: Joseph P. Kuzdzal
Date: 04/28/14
41 Stephanie Lane
Amount: $393,000
Buyer: Robert E. Murphy
Seller: Millard Crump
Date: 04/30/14
148 Western Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Louis E. Bernardi
Seller: John A. Killips
Date: 04/28/14
130 Yeoman Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Steven B. Clement
Seller: Marianne Theodorakis
Date: 04/30/14
WILBRAHAM
13 Brookside Circle
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Eleanor R. Burns
Seller: Dale J. Diefenderfer
Date: 04/28/14
54 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: My T. Nguyen
Seller: Kevin Czaplicki
Date: 04/25/14
5 Ronald Circle
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Catherine M. Lamica
Date: 04/25/14
547 Springfield St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Todd Forward
Seller: Joseph Hendrix
Date: 04/30/14
2 Willow Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Theodore Russell
Seller: Cordner, Robin S., (Estate)
Date: 05/01/14
WEST SPRINGFIELD
1358 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $276,070
Buyer: Michael S. Yu
Seller: Michael J. Evans
Date: 04/30/14
135 Butternut Hollow Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Deborah L. Miles
Seller: Marykay McCoubrey
Date: 04/24/14
202 Forest Glen
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jonathan E. Sady
Seller: Marjorie F. Anderson
Date: 04/25/14
234 Greystone Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Gregory A. Lagueux
Seller: Thomas L. Smart
Date: 04/30/14
24 Hathorne Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Trevor P. Wood
Seller: Tracy M. Kupchunos
977 Main St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Anjum Khawaja
Seller: Cumberland Farms Inc.
Date: 04/29/14
261 Morgan Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $137,670
Buyer: Erynn J. Charter
Seller: Laurene V. Gutermann
Date: 04/30/14
1227 Union St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $3,000,000
Buyer: Placon Im Inc.
Seller: Weiss Realty Enterprises
Date: 05/02/14
52 Windsor St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Bishop & Crean Realty LLC
Seller: Wilbraham Trucking Corp.
Date: 05/01/14
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
AMHERST
30 Blackberry Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: F. M. Montenegro-Menezes
Seller: Mohammad Idrees
Date: 05/01/14
19 Elf Hill Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $509,000
Buyer: Janet T. Marquardt TR
Seller: Alexandra J. Lefebvre
Date: 04/30/14
20 McClellan St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $342,500
Buyer: Simon P. Alciere
Seller: Richard E. Sclove
Date: 04/30/14
632 S. Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Francis X. Bock
Seller: Peter F. Carr
Date: 04/30/14
80 West St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: North Plesant Street LLC
Seller: Lillian A. Gnatek
Date: 04/30/14
BELCHERTOWN
742 Federal St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Louis A. Freilicher
Seller: Miriam S. Freilicher
Date: 05/02/14
George Hannum Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Hills Realty LLC
Seller: John F. Loncrini
Date: 05/02/14
15 Meadow Pond Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $377,000
Buyer: David Funk
Seller: Paul Courchesne
Date: 04/28/14
20 Springfield Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $173,500
Buyer: Holly L. Burton
Seller: FNMA
Date: 04/25/14
250 State St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Robert S. Labonte
Seller: Edmond M. Gingras
Date: 04/30/14
380 State St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Nicholas R. Lariviere
Seller: Fairbanks Holdings LLC
Date: 04/22/14
412 State St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Jason E. Vann
Seller: John W. Burton
Date: 04/23/14
71 West St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Devin O’Neil
Seller: Hazelwood Interests LLC
Date: 04/30/14
CUMMINGTON
6 Bug Hill Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: Kristin Lacross
Seller: John W. Selfridge
Date: 05/01/14
EASTHAMPTON
401 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $239,500
Buyer: James J. Laliberte
Seller: Emlyn Makofsky
Date: 04/30/14
11 Loudville Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $227,000
Buyer: Jessye E. Joyce
Seller: Marnina A. Edelhart
Date: 04/30/14
108 Loudville Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: David A. Marek
Seller: Barbara K. Furgal
Date: 04/25/14
8 Morin Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Ashley N. McClaflin
Seller: Chad M. Busone
Date: 04/30/14
13 Oakridge Circle
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Ian C. Hogan
Seller: Yee C. Cheng
Date: 05/02/14
43 Parsons St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $302,000
Buyer: Jeremy Austin
Seller: Brooks Holmes
Date: 04/30/14
54 Plain St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $193,500
Buyer: Gerald W. Boulanger
Seller: Jennifer V. Hutchison
Date: 05/01/14
GRANBY
138 Carver St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $327,500
Buyer: Keith R. Harris
Seller: Mark E. Gibbs
Date: 04/30/14
139 East St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Girard
Seller: Joseph A. Dasilva
Date: 04/29/14
29 Greenmeadow Lane
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Lori A. Stpierre
Seller: Stanislav Adzigirey
Date: 04/30/14
HADLEY
193 Rocky Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $171,000
Buyer: Sally A. Shaffer
Seller: Donna M. Kopec-Keith
Date: 05/01/14
HATFIELD
138 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Donald E. Acus
Seller: Richard J. Harubin
Date: 04/22/14
20 Gore Ave.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $255,500
Buyer: John J. Higuera
Seller: Colleen A. Sacheim
Date: 04/30/14
68 Plain Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Michael C. Bouley
Seller: David R. Battey
Date: 04/25/14
HUNTINGTON
20 Laurel Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $249,457
Buyer: Christina TR
Seller: Crystal A. Gomez
Date: 04/29/14
MIDDLEFIELD
6 Johnnycake Hill Road
Middlefield, MA 01243
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Paul A. Westerfield
Seller: Michael Mahana
Date: 04/30/14
NORTHAMPTON
324 Audubon Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $805,000
Buyer: Jody L. Cutler
Seller: Charles R. Sperry RET
Date: 04/29/14
Audubon Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Liisa Tikkalla
Seller: Charles R. Sperry RET
Date: 04/29/14
67 Bliss St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Elizabeth B. Fitzpatrick
Seller: Cara E. Chandler
Date: 04/25/14
201 Chestnut St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $355,500
Buyer: Faye E. Hollender
Seller: Danny A. Morris
Date: 05/01/14
38 Fort Hill Terrace
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $499,500
Buyer: Mary B. Caschetta
Seller: David R. Corbett
Date: 04/29/14
410 Kennedy Road
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Dawgs RET
Seller: Robin H. Fields
Date: 04/30/14
96 Laurel Park
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Nicholas T. Dines
Seller: Hope Solanis
Date: 04/30/14
Moser St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Wright Builders Inc.
Seller: Hospital Hill Development
Date: 05/02/14
311 Riverside Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $137,500
Buyer: MT Tom Properties LLC
Seller: Stanley J. Rys
Date: 04/29/14
269 Ryan Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $224,000
Buyer: Aaron J. Clark
Seller: Michael C. Bouley
Date: 04/25/14
209 Spring St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jennifer S. Smith
Seller: Lisa A. Morrison
Date: 04/25/14
51 Westhampton Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Que H. Nguyen
Seller: Christopher P. Hudzik
Date: 05/01/14
PELHAM
11 King St.
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Benjamin Mazzei
Seller: Donald A. Weaver
Date: 04/28/14
SOUTH HADLEY
6 Henry Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Jonathan D. Buckley
Seller: Ronald A. Condino
Date: 04/30/14
7 Leblanc Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Peter B. Webster
Seller: Russell J. Omer
Date: 04/28/14
2 Lynch Place
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $173,400
Buyer: Jessica Ogg
Seller: William B. Nevill
Date: 04/22/14
120 Morgan St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $177,000
Buyer: Fabian Anazco
Seller: Roger N. Babb
Date: 04/30/14
1 North Sycamore Knolls
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $282,250
Buyer: Richard L. Mallory
Seller: Michael F. Werenski
100 Pittroff Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Thomas E. Kelly
Seller: Susan M. Gustafson
Date: 04/25/14
SOUTHAMPTON
315 College Highway
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Henry Czeremcha
Seller: Wallace E. Rapalus
Date: 04/30/14
40 Cook Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $313,000
Buyer: Michael J. Simonzi
Seller: Niziolek, Linda A., (Estate)
Date: 04/30/14
6 Karen Lane
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Bernadette Brockwell
Seller: Dorothy J. Foley
Date: 04/25/14
WARE
90 South St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: CMJT Management LLC
Seller: John S. Mott
Date: 04/30/14
WESTHAMPTON
23 Reservoir Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $283,000
Buyer: Edward E. Chute
Seller: George H. Hollywood
Date: 04/28/14
WILLIAMSBURG
23 Nash Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $444,500
Buyer: Sarah B. Kinder
Seller: Ethan A. Holmes
Date: 05/01/14
The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of and May 2014.
AGAWAM
Colonial Food Store
39 Southwick St.
Shahzad Chaudhry
GET Woodworking
346 Springfield St.
Gyslain Turgeon
Motor City Car Company
91 Ramah Circle
Peter Zurlino
CHICOPEE
Double J’s Landscaping
37 Rivest Court
Justin Pouliot
Lawn Champs Lawn Care
21 York St.
Ryan Franczek
Ondrick Natural Earth, LLC
729 Fuller Road
Adam J. Ondrick
PC Steven Computer Repair
46 Florence St.
Stephen Schaeneman
Rejuvenations
246 Montcalm St.
Marci Ryder
Rivers Variety & Wireless
130 Chicopee St.
Kisean Donaldson
GREENFIELD
AAC Flooring & Tile
12 Verde Dr.
Aleksander Komerzan
Eli & Olivia Pure Honey
280 Leyden Road
Bruce Baker
Institute for Wilderness and Emergency Medicine
41 Solar Way
Nicole Thurrell
JMB Bookkeeping
18 Carpenters Lane
JoAnne Bernot
Kobe Idibachi Sushi Bar
254 Mohawk Trail
Asian Buffett of Greenfield
Pleasant Street Community Garden
141 Davis St.
Alice Timmons
The Cookie Factory
224 ½ Federal St.
Shelley Phillips
PALMER
A-Plus Landscaping & Construction
1132 Thorndike St.
Robert Taylor
APA Construction Property Maintenance
3 Fairfield Dr.
Andrew Fredette
Balicki Auto Body Inc.
92 Bacon Road
Philip Balicki
Cornerstone Artistry
21 Wilbraham St.
Timothy Becker
Palmer Auto Wash
1219 Thorndike St.
Raymond Recor
RB Enterprises
2 Nipmuck St.
Raymond Briton
SOUTHWICK
Flo Castonguay
8 Crystal Dr.
Florence Castonguay
Jardan Movers & More
93 Bungalow St.
Christopher Jones
Lafrenier Trucking Company
5 Echo Road
Jon Lafrenier
Rehab Resolutions Inc.
627 College Hwy.
Sofia Zanarella
SPRINGFIELD
JZ Fashion
1611 Main St.
Joel Vargas
KD Custom Design
28 Mountainview St.
Keith Anderson
Kyle’s Security
256 Boston Road
Kyle A. Burns
Liem’s Hardwood Flooring
46 Burton St.
Liem V. Thai
Martys Re
272 Main St.
Martin J. Dietter
Mason Fortune
16 Leatherleaf Cir.
Shequinna Barton
Massachusetts Refrigerant
100 Verge St.
Thomas M. Washer
Michael J. Gelinas Electric
4 Rogers Ave.
Michael J. Gelinas
Mopeds Unlimited
42 Arbutus St.
Leslie K. Seabrooks
NJ Home Improvement
112 Belvidere St.
Ismael Medina
New York Sound & Motion
90 Carando Dr.
Edward W. Brown
Northeast Plumbing & Heating
16 Raman St.
William Walker
PG Lawn and Home Maintenance
82 Westford Ave.
Patricia Gentry
Plaster Party Time
1760 Boston Road
John A. Muise
Que Huong Restaurant
281 Belmont Ave.
Tri M. Bui
R.Y.S.E.
97 Mill St.
Judith E. Crowell
Religious Ritual Activities
213 Commonwealth Ave.
Hari P. Adhikari
S & N Transportation
209 Ramblewood Dr.
Steven Delmas
Sevi & Anu Inc.
1121 State St.
Satish Kumar
Sweetcakes Shoes & More
42 Wayne St.
Marcus Jordan
Top Mechanical Service
77 Ellsworth Ave.
Raymond M. Barainard
Tropical African Market
810 Main St.
Nana Lawrence
United States Veterans
1350 Main St.
Luann Beaulieu
Up Town Bills & Payment
302 Hancock St.
Rolando Rijo
V.J. Auto Sales
282 Locust St.
Victor S. Jimenez
WESTFIELD
Odd Job Doctor
8 Yale St.
Robyn Banks
RPM Wood Finishing Group Inc.
221 Union St.
RPM Wood Finishing Group
The Scrub Peddler
10 Fawn Ln.
Ellen T. Majka
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Bear Spirit Design
42 Murray Place
Cindy S. White
Bob’s Discount Furniture
135 Memorial Ave.
John J. Sullivan
C.R. Landscaping
92 Chilson Road
Patrick Butler
C.V.D.
31 Capital St.
Daniel R. Gold
Capital Realty Inc.
125 Capital Dr.
Capital Realty, Inc.
Energia Massage
1111 Elm St.
Yesenia Camareno
Maximum Pawn Company
1142 Memorial Ave.
Maximino M. Salvador
Olympia Junior Hockey
125 Capital Dr.
Patrick Tabb
Travelodge
437 Riverdale St.
Yogi Rana
Two Elements
102 Overlook Dr.
Christopher Anthony
West Springfield 15
864 Riverdale St.
Efrain E. Hague
The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.
CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Patricia McGhee v. Circle K
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing slip and fall: $5,089
Filed: 4/4/14
FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT
Edward M. Orcutt Jr., ppa John E. Orcutt and Leann Orcutt v. Pioneer Valley Regional School District
Allegation: Negligence in precautionary measures and supervision, failure to provide an agent who was MIAA concussion-certified or had first-responder training: $180,834.94+
Filed: 3/20/14
Martifer Solar USA Inc. v. Bith Energy Inc. and Washington Gas Energy Systems Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to pay under the terms of the contract: $1,212,952.44
Filed: 4/1/14
HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Cadwell Logging & Firewood Inc. v. RCS Diesel Service Inc.
Allegation: Action to recognize and enforce a foreign judgment: $36,012.24
Filed: 4/11/14
Chicopee Savings Bank v. Seven Sisters Bistro Inc.
Allegation: Breach of revolving demand Note: $1,564,208.50
Filed: 4/11/14
Fleet Operations Inc. v. Ryder Truck Rental Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract related to the sale of a vehicle: $50,000+
Filed: 4/7/14
GDF Suez Energy Resources, N.A. Inc. v. Apmar USA Inc.
Allegation: Breach of service agreement: $89,064.88
Filed: 4/17/14
TD Bank, N.A. v. BJK Fusco Inc. and Thomas E. Fusco
Allegation: Default on promissory note: $627,645.52
Filed: 4/15/14
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Adam S. Crosby v. Ryder Truck Inc.
Allegation: Breach of employment contract and failure to pay bonus: $7,000
Filed: 4/3/14
Santos Family Chiropractic Inc. d/b/a Chiropractic AVTS v. Tower Group
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to pay reasonable and necessary medical bills: $4,447
Filed: 3/28/14
US Foods Inc. v. PEAJ Inc., d/b/a Fox Den Restaurant and Paul M. B’Shara
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $5,792.61
Filed: 3/10/14
Westover Building Supply Co. Inc. v. Optimum Building and Inspection Corp.
Allegation: Failure to pay under the terms of a construction contract: $65,000
Filed: 3/24/14
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Total construction spending rose modestly for the third straight month in April as a mix of increases and declines in public and private categories showed the sector’s recovery remains fragile and fragmented, according to an analysis of new Census Bureau data by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). Association officials said the industry could benefit from new federal investments in infrastructure to offset declining public-sector demand. “Residential, private non-residential, and public construction spending all have areas of strength but also pockets of weakness,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “While the overall trend remains more positive than last year, growth is likely to be spotty for the foreseeable future.” Construction put in place totaled $954 billion in April, 0.2% above the revised February total and 8.6% higher than in April 2013. The year-over-year growth so far in 2014 has exceeded the full-year increase of 5% recorded from 2012 to 2013. Private residential construction spending inched up 0.1% in April to a six-year high. The latest total exceeded the year-ago level by 17%. Single-family construction rose 1.3% in April and 14% year-over-year. Multi-family spending soared 4.4% and 31%, respectively. Improvements to existing single- and multi-family structures slumped 2.2% for the month but increased 17% from a year ago. Private non-residential spending dipped 0.1% in April but climbed 5.6% over 12 months. Most major categories increased from year-ago levels. However, the largest private segment, power construction — comprising work on oil and gas fields and pipelines as well as electricity projects — slipped 0.6% for the month and 3.9% over the year. The fastest-growing private type was office construction, which jumped 3.1% in April and 26% since April 2013. Public construction spending rose 0.8% for the month and 1.2% year-over-year. The largest public segment, highway and street construction, declined 1.1% in April but increased 4.9% from a year before. The second-biggest category, educational construction, gained 3% and 4.9%, respectively. “The outlook for the rest of 2014 remains uneven,” Simonson predicted. “Demand for apartments appears to be very strong, but there are several warning signs about home building. Despite dropping last month, power and manufacturing construction should remain the leading private non-residential categories, with hefty growth for the year as a whole. The rebound in public construction that occurred last month may not be repeated soon.”
Partnerships Anchor Easthampton’s Development
Jessica Allan says Easthampton will soon have three breweries, thanks to the quality of its water and improvements in infrastructure.
“One hand helps the other here, and partnerships between the city and private business owners have spearheaded revitalization,” she explained. “Public funding has encouraged business owners to make investments, which is how our story began.”
Town Planner Jessica Allan agrees.
“The city finds money through grants for infrastructure, and as a result, private business owners use their own money to make improvements to their property,” she noted. “Things have happened in Easthampton because the community and city have worked together to improve different areas. Our arts community has also formed collaborations to help Easthampton gain recognition in and outside of the Pioneer Valley.
“In the past, Easthampton had a really strong manufacturing base. It is still happening within the mills, but in a creative way,” she continued, citing enterprises that include furniture makers and a high-end wrapping-paper business whose clients include New York City boutiques.
She pointed to the Pleasant Street mills project that is now underway as a good example of a public-private partnership. Several years ago, Michael Michon, who owns Mill 180; Will Bundy, who owns the Eastworks Mill; and James Witmer, who owns the Brickyard Mill, approached the city for help. “They told us they had tenants who wanted to move into their buildings but were hesitant due to the lack of parking,” Allan said, adding that the trio had the idea of connecting their buildings and flipping the entrances, so they would open facing the Manhan Rail Trail instead of on Pleasant Street, because there was space there for a new parking lot.
The owners paid for the design, which includes 440 parking spaces, trees, and lighting. “The city did its part by applying for a MassWorks grant. The city received $2.75 million in October 2012 for the first phase of the project, and a second $1.5 million a year later to increase the parking capacity,” Allan said.
Money from the first grant will pay for an upgrade of the water lines as well as burying the electric lines. “We’re really dealing with safety issues,” Allan said. “The original water lines are still there, and the fire-suppression system doesn’t have enough pressure. There will also be new lateral connections to each building, so, if there is a problem in one building, it won’t affect the others. And burying the electric lines is helpful to the fire department.”
All those involved said Western Mass Electric Co. is a key player in the undertaking and that the utility made additional investments outside the area to some of their substations so the mills can get the power they need.
Cadieux says the project has been challenging, and Allan has held weekly construction meetings with representatives from city departments, the mill owners, the design consultant and engineering team, WMECO, and the construction contractor.
“The project is really complex, and a number of easements were needed,” she said. “But the end result will be rewarding and will spawn new economic activity. And the mill owners have spent millions on their buildings in anticipation of being able to fill in their empty space.”
Cadieux agrees. “It’s absolutely fantastic to have all these groups working together,” she said. “The project is very important to everyone involved.”
Ongoing Collaborations
Cadieux said the city’s history of partnerships began 15 years ago on Cottage Street when a buyer wanted to purchase the former 9,000-square-foot Majestic Theater, which was an eyesore that had been closed for years.
“But the owner of the theater insisted that he would not sell to the man unless he also bought the parking lot across the street. He couldn’t afford both properties, but the city was able to help by purchasing the lot with state funds,” she explained. “It was advantageous to both sides because the city needed more parking. And since that time, the city has received a great deal of state funding for infrastructure improvements. As a result, many restaurants and businesses have gone into space on the street.”
The city’s next major project is aimed at helping downtown businesses as well as providing people with a new recreational outlet. It’s called the Nashawannuck Pond Promenade Park, and will finally bring to fruition an idea that was born about a decade ago. The park is in the design stages, and, thanks in part to a $400,000 grant from the state, construction is expected to begin this summer.
“The 30-acre pond is in the heart of the community and will provide a gathering space for residents and visitors,” Allan said, as she viewed the peaceful body of water from the mayor’s office windows.
“The park will be the gateway to the cultural district on Cottage Street and will make Easthampton a destination location. We want to attract tourism and bring foot traffic downtown,” she told BusinessWest, adding that this is another example of how public funding spurs economic development in the city.
Mayor Karen Cadieux says Easthampton is flourishing due to its diverse economy.
She added that the city is also looking at streamlining its permitting process and has partnered with the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce to develop a workshop for first-time business owners. “In the past two years, ten new businesses have applied for permits downtown, and we are filling in vacant storefronts,” she said.
Allan explained that increased interest in space downtown is related to Easthampton City Arts+ and the events it sponsors, such as monthly art walks, which are very popular.
The formation of that organization resulted from yet another collaboration, this one between Easthampton City Arts and the Easthampton Cultural Council, which shared office space and coordinated events at Old Town Hall with a shared mission before they merged and became ECA+.
The group has worked with the city on a variety of occasions, and last year it was successful in its bid to have Cottage Street designated by the state as its 16th cultural district. “The effort was spearheaded by ECA+,” Allan said, adding that the city applied for the designation from the Mass. Cultural Council in January 2013.
The mayor says these partnerships are beneficial. “It’s exciting to have all of this happening in one community, and the growth that is taking place due to partnerships between the city, private businesses, and the arts community makes Easthampton unique.
“Again, it’s a matter of people working hand in hand,” Cadieux continued. “The arts community stimulates art growth, which attracts businesses to the city, and that results in our diversity.”
Fifty affordable-housing units called Cottage Square Apartments are also under construction in a long-abandoned building at 15 Cottage St. “It was our largest tax title and was purchased by a developer three years ago. The city supported the developer’s idea, and the project was permitted under special zoning,” Cadieux explained, referring to Easthampton’s so-called “smart-growth zoning,” which allows for denser development downtown. The mayor added that the city procured $200,000 in Community Preservation Act monies, which has helped the owner leverage additional state and federal funding.
Improvements to infrastructure, as well as the city’s pure water, which comes from the Barnes Aquifer, have also played a role in attracting three breweries to the city over the past three years. The Abandoned Building Brewery was created through a renovation of 2,700 square feet in the Brickyard Mill; the Ford Hill Brewery and Hop Farm, located in a 9,500-square-foot building on three acres less than a mile away, is expected to be operational by the end of the year; and New City Brewing, which is not yet open, has chosen Mill 180 as its home.
Bright Future
Cadieux said partnerships will continue to take center stage in Easthampton. “Things have happened here because the business community and the city have worked together. We are committed to working collaboratively with our business and arts community and do all we can to foster partnerships.
“As a result,” she concluded, “we are flourishing — which is exciting, especially during these economic times.”
Larry Martin says the numbers in the most recent report from the state Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development concerning employment by sector in Hampden County paint a fairly accurate picture of the local economy, and what’s likely to happen over the next several years.
The statistics, updated every two years — a new report is due out at the end of this year — show that, overall, employment is expected to increase roughly 8% between 2010 and 2020, with growth projected for several key sectors, said Martin, director of Business Services and special project manager for the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County. But they also show some declines that reflect changes within specific industries, and shifts in where and how products are manufactured (see accompanying chart).
In the former category are some of the county’s long-time stalwarts when it comes to employment, including healthcare, projected to increase nearly 17% by 2020, education (up 8%), finance and insurance (up 20%), and administrative and support services (up 24.6%).
Meanwhile, some sectors that had been in decline show signs of progress. These include the broad category of manufacturing, which is projected to increase roughly 12% (although some sub-categories within that sector are expected to see declines, such as paper manufacturing, which is projected to drop 40%), as well as construction, which is expected to increase more than 15%.
Martin attributes this to a surge in infrastructure work in the region, as well as continued new building within sectors such as higher education and individual institutions such as UMass Amherst, which is in the midst of a building boom.
On the other side of the ledger, several sectors are projected to see declines, in a reflection of regional, national, and even international trends. These include crop production (projected to fall 12.1%), government (down 12.2%), retail trade (down 4.5%), real estate (down 3.9%), and publishing industries (down 6.7%).
While Martin told BusinessWest that he considers the numbers fairly accurate, they do not reflect the planned construction of an $800 million in Springfield’s South End by MGM. If it is built as planned, the facility will certainly alter the projections for the category called amusement, gambling, and recreation industries (projected to see an 18% increase), and it could influence the future of a number of other industry groups as well, from transportation to retail to industry groups in the broad category of hospitality.
— George O’Brien
Joanne Marqusee Takes the Reins at Cooley Dickinson
When Boston’s Beth Israel Hospital merged with Deaconness Medical Center 18 years ago, Joanne Marqusee was there to witness the aftermath.
And it wasn’t pretty.
“I learned about what organizations should not do when they merge,” said Marqusee, the new president and CEO of Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton, taking over for Craig Melin, who had steered the CDH ship for a quarter-century and through both quiet and turbulent seas.
With Cooley Dickinson having recently finalized a merger of its own, with Massachusetts General Hospital, she reflected on the smoothness of that transition compared to the tumult that followed the Beth Israel Deaconess deal in 1996.
“Being across the street from each other, in some ways it seemed like the perfect merger,” said Marqusee (pronounced ‘mark-a-see’), who joined the BI team in 1992. She noted that the two institutions had complimentary specialties; for example, Deaconess was known for surgery, while BI had a stronger medicine program. “On paper, it seemed like a match made in heaven. But in some ways, there really wasn’t enough attention paid to how to bring two cultures together, how to manage people through that situation. And it really matters.”
Staff from the two Boston institutions became notoriously suspicious of each other. “People didn’t want to work in teams. Fortunately, I had been there only three years, so I didn’t define myself as a ‘BI person.’ I didn’t have this bias based on what side of the street I worked on. That didn’t define my contribution to the corporation.”
On the bright side, however, “when the organization was in such flux, with people coming and going, there were a lot of opportunities,” she said. “So I was given more and broader responsibilities — often in areas I didn’t necessarily have any background in.
“I kind of learned over time that management is management,” she continued. “Particularly as a non-clinical person moving up in healthcare, I applied the same approach to problems involving people, whether in a clinical or non-clinical area.”
Having most recently served as executive vice president and chief operating officer at Hallmark Health System, located just north of Boston, a job she accepted in 2009, Marqusee is embracing her first stint in the CEO’s chair, and has been pleased with the way Cooley Dickinson and Mass General are coexisting.
“The distance makes it almost easier; people don’t feel threatened,” she told BusinessWest. “And they have been terrific. We can call there for help; they have such intellectual capital. I spend at least one day a month at MGH and feel like a part of their team, which is nice.”
Matthew Pitoniak, who chairs the CDH board and led the search committee tasked with replacing Melin, is impressed with Marqusee’s acumen for bringing different teams together within an expansive health system, one that includes the hospital, the Cooley Dickinson VNA, and a number of other practices.
“We set out to identify a person capable of leading our care system into the future,” he said. “We also wanted a strong collaborator who can bring together the components of our care system for optimal patient care, and a leader who could build upon our affiliation with Massachusetts General Hospital while strengthening our local system.”
On a Mission
Marqusee was raised outside New York City in a family that was politically involved and socially conscious. “All my siblings and I ended up doing mission-based work in one way or another.”
Attending Cornell University, she didn’t know what career path she wanted to take, but she had a love for international affairs and languages, so she majored in linguistics. But she eventually felt a call to nonprofit management.
“I thought, ‘should I be a social worker?’” she said. “But I had a sense that a better fit would be to look at how whole organizations work and to make an impact there.”
While earning a master’s in public policy from Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, she decided she was more analytic than she’d suspected, and wound up working in New York Mayor Ed Koch’s first administration. There, in 1984, she was exposed to the Health and Hospitals Corp., which ran 11 public hospitals, five nursing homes, and dozens of ambulatory-care sites. It was a $2 billion corporation with 50,000 employees.
“After about a month, I realized I wanted to be in the healthcare world,” she said. “It was so complicated; I had the sense I could spend decades in healthcare and have different roles and always be learning.”
From there, Marqusee joined Beth Israel in 1992 and eventually ascended to senior vice president of operations for the merged system. She eventually ran most support and ancillary areas of BI Deaconess, including the Laboratory, Pharmacy, Radiology, and other clinical areas, as well as non-clinical areas such as housekeeping and patient transport.
“I got an appreciation for the fact that hospitals aren’t just doctors and nurses, even though TV and movies tell us they are,” she said. “I really got to see how, if you could tap the creativity of what’s considered support staff, it can make a great deal of difference.”
Take transport personnel, for example. “Follow one of them around for a day and see what a difference they make in healthcare,” she said, noting that patients are often already anxious and confused as they’re being moved from a room they know to somewhere unfamiliar, and a transporter who engages that patient with information and compassion makes a huge difference. “If nobody talks to them, it can be quite frightening.”
Eventually, though, Marqusee sought a new challenge. “I loved BI Deaconess; I loved the fact that it was an academic center. But personally, my interest and skill set is on the clinical side of medicine, and while teaching and research are good — we want to find a cure for cancer and teach the physicians of the future — my skills at managing people, bringing people together, can make more of a difference on the clinical side. I wanted to work in a community hospital.”
Joanne Marqusee takes over at CDH in an era of growth and new construction for the community hospital.
“Hospitals are complicated cities with 24/7 operations, involving doctors, nurses, phlebotomists, transporters, people who make sure supplies get where they need to go — it’s this complicated dance to make sure everything gets done right,” she said.
“There are a lot of policy issues, but also the question of, how do you make such a complex organization work better? How do you make teams work better?,” she went on. “The emergency room, for instance, is an amazing thing — think of all the different parts that have to come together to move everyone from A to B.”
In her five years at Hallmark, she said, she helped standardize practices and managed to improve both patient and employee satisfaction, while better engaging physicians — even while battling the onset of a recession that made life difficult for all community hospitals.
“In 2009, it was awful. People were losing their jobs, and if not them, their spouse was losing their job. It had a huge effect in all hospitals,” she said. “We were able to get through that and find ways to reduce costs while improving care. As a non-healthcare person, I like to apply the quality-improvement approaches of other industries, like the LEAN approach that Toyota uses. That’s very helpful in bringing frontline staff together, standardizing workflow, and finding ways to keep the patient at the center.”
Marqusee added that she wants employees at all levels to enjoy their jobs. “That’s important. People like it when they have fun and work as a team. For staff, it’s important to balance the seriousness of what they do with enjoying the community they work in. People come to healthcare, usually, because they care about what they’re doing.”
Western Swing
While Marqusee loved being in a community hospital, she occasionally missed the learning experiences of an academic medical center, and the opportunity to lead a Mass General-affiliated CDH appealed to her. “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but when this came up, I was really excited; it seemed like the perfect job for me. It’s a community hospital that’s very well-regarded with high quality scores — very, very impressive.
“I hadn’t thought I would leave the Boston area, but my twins grew up and were in college, and my husband recently retired,” she went on. “Northampton seems like such an ideal area, really, with the culture and level of activity here. We can be connected with Boston, and not far from New York.”
She cited the hospital’s well-known infection-control efforts as one example of how CDH has been a leader.
“The focus on quality is clearly embraced here; physicians and staff are proud of being innovators,” she said. “Some people think hospitals and healthcare systems are solely based upon healing people, but harm can happen in hospitals. We want to make sure people don’t leave with an infection, and we make a priority of that. The housekeepers are passionate about this issue. They think, ‘what I do makes a difference in whether patients get sick here or not.’”
At the same time, Marqusee takes the reins amid controversy over a state investigation into several serious incidents in the Childbirth Center, including two infant deaths and a failure to properly treat high blood pressure in a mother, leading to a stroke that caused her death. The hospital has since reorganized the center and its affiliated nurse-midwife practices and launched a corrective action plan.
“We’re trying to be out there and communicating,” she said, noting that the recent tragedy comes on top of stress that already existed related to the Mass General merger and Melin’s announced retirement. “It’s been a year and a half of people not knowing what’s going to happen. So we communicate with them the good and the bad, the issues we need to work on, trying to be honest so we can get better. We’ve been as open as we can about the Childbirth Center to staff and the community.”
She credited Melin with steering the hospital with a steady hand amid an ongoing shift in the healthcare industry toward accountable care, which emphasizes efficiencies of treatment. “In America, we use more healthcare, but we don’t necessarily have better health outcomes.”
She said Northampton is a progressive community when it comes to understanding, for example, that more MRIs are not necessarily better, but added that the industry has a long way to go toward a less-wasteful system of care.
“Physicians get paid to see patients; they don’t get paid to talk on the phone,” she noted as another example. “But even five minutes on the phone can be more valuable than having them come into the hospital, be exposed to more germs, and maybe be encouraged to take an unnecessary test.”
What Cooley Dickinson can do, Marqusee said, is improve its own processes, and that begins with better communication between departments.
“We’re trying to understand where our systems do not work as well as they could, to connect the departments with one another, communicate better between the day shift and evening shift,” she said.
“The departments themselves run quite well; this place is strong operationally. They don’t need a leader to come in and tell food services or the ICU how to run their department, but they could use help linking to one another in interdisciplinary teams,” she continued. “Most errors in healthcare tend to be around communication or handoffs, radiology to ICU, day shift to evening shift, communication between nurses and physicians, nurses and technicians. I’ve been interested in finding where the gaps are and setting priorities for improvement projects.”
Take the Emergency Department, for example. “That’s such a complicated place — the doorway to the organization in many ways; a hospital’s reputation in the community tends to rise and fall with the Emergency Department,” she told BusinessWest. “But the ED staff themselves say we could do much better with the way we communicate with people upstairs, so in the fall, we’re launching a major project to reorganize how we work in the ED, make it even better.
“Right now, patients are happy with it,” she stressed, “but if they spend less time here, it would make them even happier.”
Talk It Out
In her first two months on the job, Marqusee has been busy spending time in many different areas of the hospital and, in fact, the entire CDH network. “I’m trying to make people understand that it’s not just a hospital; Cooley Dickinson is also the VNA, off-site physician practices, radiology, and rehab,” just to name a few, she said.
“I’m also trying to meet people from different shifts — nights, weekends, evenings. It’s a whole new world at night, so I’m trying to understand their challenges, too. I’m just trying to create some visibility; I don’t want anyone to think the CEO is a suit in the corner office they can’t talk to. I want to have a culture that’s not hierarchical, where the frontline staff understand that I care about them, and they can talk to me.”
The bottom line, Marqusee said, is that, despite recent challenges, a well-regarded hospital system has the ability to improve, and that’s not a task she takes lightly.
“I feel like this community values Cooley Dickinson, and that doesn’t just happen,” she said. “It’s years of reaching out and providing valuable services.”
Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]
New HealthSouth Facility Opens Its Doors in Ludlow Mills Complex
Victoria Healy stands in the front lobby of the new HealthSouth facility, complete with a mural depicting the signature clock tower in the Ludlow Mills complex.
“It was difficult giving tours there — that facility was not an easy sell,” said Healy, who gave more than a few over the years in her role as controller.
There were five floors to negotiate, she told BusinessWest as she talked about the former Ludlow Hospital, an acute-care facility built in 1907, adding that the elevators were old and slow, the rooms had multiple patients and shared bathrooms, and the rehab areas were quite small.
All this made for competitive disadvantages at a time when patients and their families were becoming far more discerning about where and how they receive care, and doing their homework before choosing a provider.
“What we’re finding now is that people are really educated, and if they’re going to have surgery they believe will require rehab after the fact, like having both knees replaced, they’re doing the legwork up front,” she explained. “They’re figuring out where they’re going to go before they need it.”
These days, giving such tours is a very welcome assignment for Healy, now the facility’s CEO, and anyone else who gets to do the honors.
That’s because the new, $28 million HealthSouth, built at the Ludlow Mills complex and opened last December, is state-of-the-art in every sense of that phrase — from its pending LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification to the private rooms and accompanying spacious bathrooms; from the large inpatient gym, where occupational, physical, and speech therapists work with patients, to the courtyard, which doubles as what Healy called a “functional therapy gym” (more on that later).
“Tours are a lot more fun here — this building sells itself,” she told BusinessWest, adding that there have been dozens of visits in recent weeks from prospective patients and their families, town officials, the press, and other constituencies.
But while the new, 53-bed, 74,000-square-foot HealthSouth is a model of the present and, in many respects, future of rehabilitation services, there is also a nod — actually, several of them — to the past. In this case, it’s the hospital’s new home, the massive former jute-manufacturing complex that is now the site of an ambitious redevelopment project being undertaken by Westmass Area Development Corp.
Indeed, the HealthSouth facility is one of the first undertakings within this initiative, which includes both new construction and repurposing old mills, and those constructing and then decorating the hospital acknowledged the rich history of the site.
For starters, 100,000 bricks salvaged from some of the dozens of historic stock houses that populate the property were used in the construction of the new hospital. They can be seen in the front lobby, which also features several planed wooden beams from those stockhouses, several photos of the mills, and a large mural featuring the signature clock tower that dominates the property and has become the town’s most recognized landmark.
Meanwhile, a mix of artwork adorns corridors throughout the facility — a colorful collection of photographs of area landmarks (everything from Mount Greylock to Westfield’s Tekoa Country Club), as well as a number of vintage photos, many a century or more old, including many of the old mill complex and the nearby Putts Bridge that links Ludlow with Indian Orchard, as well as other town landmarks.
Healy said an early favorite among patients and staff alike is an image from the maternity unit at the former Springfield Hospital, circa 1905, showing nine infants on one large cart.
“We originally thought those were loaves of bread, but they’re babies,” she said. ‘Times have definitely changed.”
For this issue, BusinessWest took one of the many tours being offered these days by Healy and her staff to gain some perspective on what this new facility means for the organization in terms of serving patients and achieving desired growth.
It’s Not Run of the Mill
Healy, who joined HealthSouth’s Ludlow operation in 1999 — a few years after the corporation acquired it from Advantage Rehabilitation, which set up shop soon after Ludlow Hospital closed its doors in the early ’90s — said administrators have known for some time that larger, more efficient, and far more modern facilities were needed.
Indeed, while the company has a reputation for good outcomes for its patients and has long enjoyed a high occupancy rate (roughly 90%), the multi-level, 60,000-square-foot facility presented some real challenges.
The 53 beds were placed in far fewer rooms than the current facility, she explained, noting that there were often three or four patients to a room. This created issues with privacy and infection control, but also presented some logistical problems.
For example, as the patient population shifted, gender-wise, patients would have to be moved, often several times during a typical two-week stay, said Healy, adding that this was an inconvenience for both patients and their families.
“We had such a high occupancy rate, in order to accommodate more patients, we had to do a lot of room moves,” she noted. “In an average length of stay of 13 days, a patient might move three or four times.”
And then, there were the multiple beds and common bathrooms, which, suffice it to say, were not the highlights of those aforementioned tours.
“When the younger generations toured and saw the three- and four-bed rooms and the shared bathroom, they were not interested in coming to our hospital,” Healy noted, “especially when they came from either Baystate or Wing and the new units at those facilities, which featured all private rooms.
“And the bathrooms we had at the old hospital were more like toilets,” she went on. “The sinks were outside the bathroom, and the showers were toward the nursing unit. It was more like a gym shower.”
These and other problems and challenges are now talked about nostalgically, if that’s the right term, by HealthSouth’s staff of 225.
The inpatient gymnasium can host dozens of patients and therapists, and represents a marked improvement over facilities in the former HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital.
“It’s a huge change — like night and day,” said Healy with a laugh, adding that the new facility allows for the same patient outcomes, a better patient experience, and a far more appealing environment in which the staff can work.
All of the above became evident as Healy offered BusinessWest a tour, starting outside her office in the administrative area. Nearly 20 people now work in one designated area — where before they were spread throughout the old hospital — allowing for better communication and improved productivity.
But the hospital really exists for its patients, she said, before moving quickly through the lobby to an outpatient-treatment area that represents a vast improvement over the same facility at the old Ludlow Hospital, enabling HealthSouth to better compete in a crowded field of outpatient-service providers, which is a small but still-important component of the business.
The main thrust is inpatient care, she said while moving on to the two wings with patient rooms for those recovering from everything from stroke and other neurological disorders to spinal-cord injury; from amputations to cardiac and pulmonary conditions.
While these rooms have become a strong selling point for those doing that aforementioned legwork that Healy described, there are many other amenities.
These include a spacious day room where patients and their families can relax and spend time together. Activities range from bingo to church services, said Healy, adding that there is another gathering space unofficially named the ‘night room,’ she noted, because it doesn’t have the huge windows that define the ‘day room.’
Around the corner is the large inpatient gym, which can accommodate several dozen patients and therapists at one time. And then, there’s the large courtyard, which, as she said, doubles as a functional therapy gym. There are stairs, handrails, and several slight changes in elevation, Healy noted, adding that navigating all this can certainly assist many patients in their recovery efforts.
“One of the challenges that many patients have as they’re learning, especially after a stroke or a car accident, is that it’s very difficult for them to learn to walk on different surfaces,” she explained. “So here, there are stairs, ramps, brick, concrete, stone, and sand. After a life-changing event, it’s very difficult to learn how to reambulate on surfaces like this, so we’re excited about what we can do here.
“Also, I think it’s good therapy for the soul to have the fresh air and the sunshine,” she went on. “Our goal is to get people back to their lives, and this [courtyard] is closer to life than anything a hospital can simulate.”
The facility has been closed through the long, harsh winter, said Healy, but now that spring has finally sprung, patients and their therapists are taking full advantage of the opportunities afforded them.
The new hospital comes complete with a large amount of shell space, said Healy, adding that the ultimate goal is to expand into that space with more patient rooms.
To do so, HealthSouth will have to convince state health officials there is sufficient need, she said. At the moment, this would be difficult to do because most competing facilities have lower occupancy rates.
“There is space for an additional 17 beds, and it’s our goal to eventually expand into it,” she said, noting that, as the population ages and need for rehab services rises, this space will eventually be put to use.
Making More History
That shell space is currently not on the agenda for most of the tours being given at the new HealthSouth, but there are plenty of other things to see and experience, said Healy, reiterating, again, how much more enjoyable it is to introduce people to this facility than the old hospital just a few blocks away.
“It’s the best part of my day,” she told BusinessWest, adding that the new facility provides the room to grow and an environment in which patients and staff can thrive.
Which means it’s a place where more history can be made.
George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]
Area Hospitals Tout the Critical Role of Infection Control
Mary Ellen Scales says a big part of infection control is infection prevention.
By the time an effective vaccine was developed and distributed in the fall, however, the H1N1 threat had begun to ease up. “It was a flu that went through the entire summer and into the fall, when the traditional flu season was supposed to be starting, and then it started to tail off and disappear,” said Carol Wojnarowski, an RN and infection-control manager at Holyoke Medical Center. “It was a very unique situation. That’s how pandemics get labeled — it’s out of season, it’s worldwide, it usually moves rapidly, and it can be a significant disease for those who can’t fend it off.”
Wojnarowski and her staff — and infection-control personnel at all area hospitals — are among the community’s front-line defenses against such threats, along with local and state public-health officials. When threats emerge, their concerns range from making sure enough masks are available to protect people against airborne transmission to working with pharmacies to rotate antibiotics, to preserve their efficacy.
“We’re always working with other departments, from microbiology to central supply sterilization,” Wojnarowski added. “All these have to be moving together. One won’t work on its own.”
Not every infectious disease is communicable among people, she was quick to note. “You can get tetanus from a dirty nail or a rusty fence, but I can’t give you tetanus. But smallpox, chicken pox, measles, flu, I can give those to you and the person next to you. We have strategies in case we have a pandemic in the community and our vaccines aren’t suppressing it, so we can keep it under control.”
Mary Ellen Scales, an RN and chief infection-control officer for Baystate Health, said outbreaks of flu or a norovirus in the community will often be reported by the Department of Public Health, while, in other cases, a surprising number of patients with similar symptoms will show up in the emergency room, triggering an alert.
But she was quick to add that a significant part of her department’s job has nothing to do with infections and viruses that show up in the community. “Part of infection control is actually prevention. Chasing the horse after it’s left the barn is infection control; not opening the door in the first place is infection prevention.”
Indeed, infection prevention is serious business for hospitals. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hospital-acquired infections are the fourth-leading cause of death in the U.S., and are responsible for tens of billions of dollars annually in healthcare costs.
“We have a responsibility to make sure patients, staff, visitors, and community members who come to Cooley Dickinson Hospital or its satellites are protected from transmittable infectious diseases,” said Linda Riley, an RN and manager of infection prevention at CDH. “We look for certain diseases in the hospital, and infections related to devices people use — IVs, catheters, tubes in the lungs that help them breathe. We look for infections in people having certain procedures and surgeries.
“We work as a team to keep our whole community safe where there’s a community exposure,” she noted. “I would alert our medical staff members, all our offices, let them know what they should expect, what the symptoms are, what they should do if people end up at their offices with measles or flu or something else.”
But where CDH has made major strides, she explained, is reducing the threat of infection inside the hospital.
“We’ve developed improvement plans to reduce the threat of infections,” Riley said. “We do orientation and education for staff, patients, and community members. We implement best practices, and I’m always on the Internet, reading infection-control journals and blogs, looking for new ideas, things we can do to create a safer environment for patients and staff.”
Just Breathe
Take, for example, ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), which is usually serious and caused by bacteria, which can be resistant to antibiotics. According to the Centers for Disease Control’s National Healthcare Safety Network Report, Cooley Dickinson’s efforts in preventing ventilator-acquired pneumonia place the hospital in the top 10% of the nation’s medical/surgical ICUs.
And that’s a big deal; patients on ventilators have a 32% mortality rate in the short term, but it rises to 46% when pneumonia is introduced.
The culture shift began in 2005 when a team of respiratory therapists, physicians, nurses, quality-improvement staff, and infection-prevention specialists adopted a set of instructions from the Institute for Healthcare Improvement known as the ‘IHI ventilator bundle.’ The bundle offers a series of interventions determined to be the best evidence-based practices related to reducing the risk of VAP to patients.
Carol Wojnarowski says infection-control work in hospitals involves a number of departments effectively working together to identify — and minimize — risks.
The hospital’s prevention strategy — which works, since it hasn’t had a VAP case in three years — includes making sure patients’ heads are elevated and heating the ventilator tubing to body temperature before use; if they aren’t heated, the gas that passes through them can turn into water vapor, which is a potential breeding ground for contaminants. Doctors at CDH also use closed-suction catheters, which allow them to clean secretions from a patient’s airway while maintaining ventilation, which also cuts down on the risk of infection.
A similar team was assembled at Baystate, which also adopted the IHI ventilator bundle in 2005 and, like CDH, witnessed an almost total elimination of VAP incidents. That followed on the heels of other infection-control measures, like installing alcohol hand rubs throughout its hospitals. “It’s important for healthcare workers to clean their hands,” Scales said.
Cooley Dickinson has taken a high-tech approach to hand hygiene, installing an electronic system, called the DebMed GMS, that monitors whether doctors, nurses, and other care providers are cleaning their hands before seeing patients.
An electronic box at each station keeps a tally of how many provider-patient contacts are preceded — or not — by hand disinfecting. Each department then discusses the findings at staff meetings to develop goals and strategies for improving compliance rates.
Again, this is a serious matter. A study conducted at Duke University Medical Center showed that a 1% increase in hand-hygiene compliance results in annual cost savings of $39,650 for a 200-bed hospital, due to fewer incidents of germ transmission requiring further care and longer stays.
Cooley Dickinson has also taken a cutting-edge approach to cleaner patient rooms using an ultraviolet disinfecting technology known as Xenex Px-UV. The system uses UV light to kill drug-resistant organisms like MRSA, VRE, and Clostridium difficile, or C. diff — which, by itself, infects 165,000 hospitalized patients annually, and about 9,000 of those die, according to the CDC. But at CDH, the presence of C. diff dropped by 82% in just the first four months after the introduction of Xenex.
Home Invasion
Wojnarowski said the report of a widespread pathogen in the community is followed by communication with public-health officials and procedures on everything from quarantines to immunizations. Hospital policy also requires care providers to be fully immunized against transmittable diseases.
But she also emphasized the importance of monitoring and preventing infections that develop inside the hospital.
“We invade the patient a lot; we put catheters in their veins, their bladder, their lungs. And those therapies, though they help the patient and provide relief in some ways, are also a pathway for bacteria to get in.”
That’s why Holyoke Medical Center has established guidelines for how long a catheter or IV can stay in, and how to put a medicated dressing around the catheter and insertion site.
“We’re always updating our guidelines, our patient-care practices, always consulting with operating-room people, sterilizing equipment — what can we do better to clean equipment, keep it sterilized? What are the latest strategies out there?” Wojnarowski explained. “It extends to purchasing equipment, too. For example, sometimes it’s cheaper to buy something disposable versus something we have to sterilize.”
Riley agreed. “We’re part of the equipment-management process, and we look for things that make hospital procedures safer.” For example, IVs must be disinfected with alcohol swabs, but CDH has started using alcohol-impregnated caps that keep the port disinfected. “We found this made our IV-related infections go away. We’re always looking for new things that come on the market and new practices to help us prevent infections.”
She said her job is enjoyable, if only because no two days are the same. For example, “environmental sources of infection are a concern when we do construction, so we do risk assessment, decide what protective barriers need to be in place, and do regular inspections. We do water and air testing to make sure they’re clean for the staff.”
Scales said her team gets support from the Mass. Department of Public Health, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other bodies dedicated to preventing infection both inside and outside a hospital’s walls.
“We also get calls all the time from people in the community, clinics, doctors’ offices, about how to manage certain things. I got a call from a barber who wanted to teach infection control in hairdressing. That’s fascinating. People are more aware of the fact that infections can be passed — and that they can be prevented.”
Those relationships with state and national agencies can be onerous, too, Wojnarowski added, because organizations like the Joint Commission demand rigorous record-keeping. “We’ll have to provide a log book for temperatures in refrigerators, to prove that vaccines are stored at the right temperature,” she said. “A lot of stuff is very tedious, but it’s all about keeping people healthy, because healthcare does have risks. The therapies and treatments people undergo are not risk-free.”
Riley added that her department works closely with infection-control officials in other hospitals to support each other and share strategies that work. “We help each other problem-solve, do educational programs, and e-mail each other when we have questions. I think it’s the most successful example of hospital collaborations and communications. Our relationships are everything — knowing whom to call, when to call, and knowing you trust these people.”
Impossible Task?
Wojnarowski said they need that network because of how demanding their role is.
“The government says to the hospital, ‘improve this number, get this number to zero,’ which is completely impossible,” she told BusinessWest. “People ask, ‘why is it impossible?’ Well, you have a very elderly population; you have a population that’s on a lot of serious medications that weaken your system.
“Not every patient is a 20- or 30-year-old marathon runner,” she added. “Some are overweight, some of them smoke, and they’re not as healthy as the marathon runner. A risk for me might not be a risk for you. Although there is standardization of procedures, we’re not all the same.”
Riley agrees that zero infections is an impossible goal to meet, but it’s still the goal.
“It shows the commitment of the hospital to do everything we can to make a safe environment for patients. The community really appreciates it,” she said. “The goal is zero infections. But no one is able to do that; it’s not just what we do, but the patient’s own immune system. No hospital has achieved zero, but we’re working as hard as we can, doing everything we possibly can, to create the safest environment for our patients, staff, and visitors.
“If we don’t aim high,” she added, “we’ll never get there. So we’re aiming for zero.”
Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]
The following building permits were issued during the month of May 2014.
AGAWAM
Christian Ayotte
4 Independence Road
$24,000 — Install solar array on roof
Paul Hubbard
55 Springfield St.
$16,000 — Furniture store renovations
Town of Agawam
1000 Suffield St.
$240,000 — Construction of concession area
AMHERST
Half Pipe Associates, LLC
621 East Pleasant St.
$6,000 — Interior renovations
North Amherst Community Farm Inc.
1089 North Pleasant St.
$1,000 — Minor roof repairs
CHICOPEE
Chicopee Falls Lodge
244 Fuller Road
$40,000 — Strip and re-roof
The Consortium
44 Ludlow Road
$17,500 — Remodel bathroom
GREENFIELD
Franklin Associates
87-91 Main St.
$12,000 — Interior renovations
Joseph Nickerson
223 Mohawk Trail
$16,000 — Remodel interior of Circle K store
Rite Aid
107 Main St.
$105,000 — Interior remodel
Steven Schechterle
402 Federal St.
$8,500 — Strip and re-roof
PALMER
Country Bank for Savings
1485 North Main St.
$8,000 — Office renovations
Merchant Palmer LLC
1001 Thorndike St.
$135,000 — 1,400 square foot remodel
Mildred Kapinos
9 South St.
$9,000 — New roof
Wing Memorial Hospital
40 Wright St.
$265,000 — Upgrades to emergency room area
SOUTHWICK
CVS
215 College Highway
$46,000 — Renovations and accessibility improvements for handicap restrooms
SPRINGFIELD
1350 Main Street, LLC
1350 Main St.
$27,000 — Construct new office wall with window in suite 1510
Verizon Wireless
90 Memorial Dr.
$16,500 — Install 9 upgraded antenna panels
WESTFIELD
Gerald Damour
7 East Silver St.
$16,000 — Replace three rooftop gas/electric units
Lawry Realty, LLC
140 Appremont Way
$12,000 — Construct 14’ x 20’ interior room
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Carnegie Library
200 Park St.
$9,643,000 — Construction of a new two-story addition to the library
Johnson Acoustics
31 Pearson Way
$177,500 — New roof
Natu Patel
429 Riverdale St.
$9,500 — Renovations of commercial space
The following business incorporations were recorded in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties and are the latest available. They are listed by community.
CHICOPEE
Scott Allan Collection Inc., 87 Bay State Road, Chicopee, MA 01020. Scott A. Bieda, same. Clothing and apparel.
Stucco Works Inc., 49 Dakota Dr., Chicopee, MA 01013. Vasiliy Zverev, same. Masonry.
EAST LONGMEADOW
West of the River Chamber of Commerce Foundation Inc., 143 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Robert MacDonald, 65 Apricot Hill Lane, West Springfield, MA 01089. To promote, develop, sponsor, and assist in the betterment of the business community of West Springfield and Agawam through fundraising, educational, vocational, and other efforts and activities, including charitable activities.
HADLEY
R. Christopher & Associates Inc., 31 East Hadley Road, Hadley, MA 01035. Traeci J. Stevens, same. Security conflicts.
LONGMEADOW
Stevens Blair Recruiting Inc., 32 Edgewood Ave., Longmeadow, MA 01106. Caroline Krafcik, same. Consulting and healthcare marketing research services.
LENOX
Prevista Inc., 2 Pinecrest Dr., Lenox, MA 01240. Leisl M. Moriarty, same. Meeting, event, and program consultation and management.
NORTH ADAMS
Tarm Tax Services Inc., 131 Ashland St., Ste. 250, North Adams, MA 01247. Tara J. Ferriter, 17 Willow St., North Adams, MA 01247. Tax preparation, taxpayer representation, and bookkeeping.
NORTHAMPTON
Western Mass FC Inc., 16 Dana St., Northampton, MA 01060. Jonathan A. Scagel, 32 Pleasant View Dr., Hatfield, MA 01038. To offer high quality, competitive sports teams and instruction to the children of Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties. Including but not limited to fundraising and sponsorship of said sports teams and any and all other lawful purposes.
SHEFFIELD
Smarter 1 Inc., 742 Barnum St., Sheffield, MA 01257. Donald Reinauer, same. Manufacture and sale of computer and telephone equipment.
SOUTHAMPTON
Western Mass Spray Foam Inc., 37 Maple St., Southampton, MA 01073. John L. Meunier, same. Insulation services.
SOUTHWICK
Pro Tour & Cruises Inc., 194 South Longyard Road, Southwick, MA 01077. Kasie Provencal, same. Tours and cruises.
SPRINGFIELD
Pioneer Films Inc., 83 Ontario St., Springfield, MA 01104. Angel Martinez, same. To inspire the community through the art of filmmaking. We will promote events to audition members of the community to join us in producing: biographies, documentaries, short films, and feature length films.
WESTFIELD
MMC Specialty Roofing Inc., 50 Valley View Dr., Westfield, MA 01085. Donald M. Wurster, same. Construction and roofing.
VP Transport Inc., 121 B Otis St., Westfield, MA 01085. Valeriy Pozhar, same. Trucking.
UMass Dining Makes Degrees of Progress
“Come for the food; stay for the education.”
That was perhaps the most memorable, and repeated, remark offered by UMass Amherst Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy at ribbon-cutting ceremonies last fall for the renovated Hampshire Dining Commons in the campus’s Southwest residential area.
And the comment speaks loudly to what would have to be called the meteoric rise of UMass Dining, an $80 million, self-sustaining operation that is one of the largest of its kind in the country, if not the world, and now also one of the most heralded.
It’s unlikely that any of the 28,000-odd students attending the university this past year came just for the food, but it’s fair to say it was a factor for many of them, which is something that could not have been said until … well, after Ken Toong arrived on the scene nearly 16 years ago.
Now a certified rock star in the dining-services universe, Toong, executive director of Auxiliary Enterprises for the university, which oversees a number of operations, including UMass Dining, changed the way the school thought about food and food service. He is credited with orchestrating a stunning turnaround for an operation that for decades was an afterthought — if it was thought about at all.
This resurgence is about much more than better-tasting food and more choices, although those are big parts of the recipe for success. It’s also about promoting healthy eating habits, buying local, sustainability — and fun, such as setting Guinness Book of World Records marks for the largest stir fry (4,010 pounds), seafood stew (6,656 pounds), and fruit salad (15,291 pounds) over the past three years.
There are myriad ways to measure the success achieved by Toong and his staff.
For starters, there’s a host of numbers and statistics concerning trends and programs within the operation. These include:
• A 15% increase in student consumption of fruits and vegetables over the past year;
• A 30% reduction in sodium in recipes;
• An 18% decline in the consumption of sugary drinks;
• Steadily climbing consumption of seafood; UMass students now eat 21 pounds of it a year, on average. Nationwide, the number is 14 pounds;
• A rise in the number of students on the meal plan from roughly 8,400 when Toong arrived to more than 17,000 in 2013;
• A sharp increase in the amount of produce the university buys locally — from roughly 8% a decade ago to nearly 40% today; and
• A so-called ‘missed-meal’ mark of 10%; 15 years ago, it was nearly 40%.
There are also awards — the dining service was rated the third-best in the nation by the Princeton Review in 2013, and first in University Primetime’s ranking of the 50 Best Colleges for Food in the U.S., for example — as well as comments such as the one offered by Subbaswamy and a number of visitors from other colleges who come to UMass Amherst to learn about the dining operation; Harvard, Yale, Buffalo, and UCLA have all been in recently.
And soon, there will be even more for such delegations to see. Indeed, work is proceeding on an extensive, $19 million renovation of the former Blue Wall cafe and adjacent space in the Campus Center into a 33,000-square-foot eatery that will sit more than 800 people (more on it later).
The emergence of UMass Dining is an important development for the university on a number of levels, said Toong, citing everything from the national exposure it brings to the revenue generated for the school; from help in bringing top students to Amherst to improved quality of life for all those on campus.
“We firmly believe that a strong dining program can do a lot of things for a school,” he explained. “It can certainly help a great university like UMass attract top students, and we also contribute to the financial well-being of the university.”
For this issue, BusinessWest goes behind the scenes at UMass Dining to get a taste — literally and figuratively — of how this turnaround has been accomplished and what it means for the university and its students.
Food for Thought
They’re known as ‘Baby Berk 1’ and ‘Baby Berk 2.’
These are the two colorfully painted food trucks operated by UMass Dining and now seen at various locations around the campus. They were given those names, said Garett DiStefano, director of Residential Dining at the university, because they’re essentially scaled-down, mobile versions of the Berkshire Dining Commons, also in Southwest, where they are parked when not in use, which means only for a few hours a day.
Garett DiStefano, seen in the renovated Hampshire Dining Commons, says UMass Dining places a strong emphasis on the “customization of food.”
“The food trucks allow us to have the ability to go around campus any time of day, any location, no matter what the event is, and serve students,” he said, adding that the vehicles got a workout over commencement weekend earlier this month, serving more than 5,000 customers.
They’re also just one of the many imaginative innovations and programs that have marked what would have to be called the ‘Ken Toong era’ for UMass Dining.
It began in the summer of 1998 when Toong, then working for Marriott International in Canada, saw a want ad that caught his attention. UMass Amherst was looking for an executive director of Dining Services.
The position appealed to him on a number of levels, but especially because it offered him an opportunity to put the many lessons in effective customer service he’d learned from Marriott in an intriguing and challenging setting — higher education, and, specifically, a UMass campus that was somewhat behind the times when it came to food services, as evidenced by the fact that perhaps a third of the student body was enrolled in a meal plan.
“I would say that they were not very customer-focused,” said Toong of the operation he joined, adding, in diplomatic terms, that the staff was in many ways talented, but not particularly well-trained or current with best practices of the day.
So he set about changing that equation.
His business plan, if one were to label it that, called for sweeping changes in what foods were served and how, with a much greater emphasis on both the customer and his or her experience.
The food trucks at UMass Amherst, Baby Berks I and 2, enable UMass Dining to take its service to another level.
He certainly didn’t envision that, a decade later, the school would be serving more than 3,000 pieces a day.
“We serve more sushi than anyone else in the country, and this is New England, not Southern Calif.,” he said. “At first, I wasn’t sure we could serve sushi here; now, if we took it off the menu, I think there would protests across campus.”
But there is much more to this story than raw fish and rice.
Indeed, Toong and his staff have taken UMass Dining in a number of new and intriguing directions — from new eateries on campus, such as a facility in the main library affectionately named Procrastination Station, to those aforementioned food trucks; from a host of educational initiatives on healthy eating to the UMass Permaculture Initiative, a cutting-edge sustainability program that has received accolades from the White House.
As they talked about all that, Toong and DiStefano referenced what they called the ‘Millennial diner,’ their term for today’s college student — a very demanding customer indeed.
“They want everything — they want food that tastes good and is good for them,” Toong said of this constituency, which also demands sustainability and the support of local farmers and manufacturers. “We serve the same customers several times a day, so the food has to be good, and it has to be a good experience; otherwise they get bored. That’s why we change the menu all the time; we’re like casino dining, but without the games.”
Power Lunch
Meeting the many wants, needs, and demands of the Millennial diner is the unofficial mission of UMass Dining, the largest campus food service, by revenue, in the country.
This is a multi-faceted operation that includes four dining commons — Hampshire, Worcester, Franklin, and Berkshire (they’re named after Western and Central Mass. counties), as well as 20 retail locations, including the Baby Berks, a bake shop operating in the Hampden Dining Commons, and other facilities.
Together, these eateries serve roughly 45,000 meals a day, or 5.5 million a year, said DiStefano, adding that what is served, when, and how are all functions of the operation’s hard focus on customer service and making necessary adjustments to reflect the calendar and specific needs.
The food trucks, for example, operate from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and will park at various locations across campus. Meanwhile, dining commons, which years ago closed by early evening are now staying open much later.
“Between 9 p.m. and midnight, we’ll feed 3,000 students a day in the dining commons,” said DiStefano, adding that many customers are averaging what amounts to four square meals a day, not three. “What we try to do is keep pace with what’s going on in the campus community and adjust accordingly.”
During final exams and the reading period that preceded them earlier this month, hours of operation in the dining commons were extended to 2 a.m., while other operations, such as Procrastination Station, were open 24 hours a day.
Meanwhile, UMass Dining employees will generally eat in the campus facilities every day, he went on, adding that this is the best way to see what’s going on and gauge student opinion.
“We have to see things from a student point of view,” he told BusinessWest. “If you’re not looking at what the customer sees every day, you’re going to miss some things.”
Overall, UMass Dining owes its success to successful relationship-building efforts, said Toong, adding that there are many constituencies involved.
This architect’s rendering shows what’s planned for the former Blue Wall café, a 33,000-square-foot eatery that will seat more than 800 people.
In fact, parents can eat for free whenever they visit the university, said Toong, and they can contribute recipes to a cookbook called Taste of Home, now in its fifth edition.
The current volume includes bacon brussels sprouts from the Berson/Krohngold family in Cleveland, mix bean curry from the Bhatt family in Lexington, apple puffed pancakes from the Brady family in Ludlow, and fiddlehead ferns with Hollandaise sauce via the Carlton/Bates family in Turners Falls.
“Some dining operations around the country don’t want to get the parents involved,” said Toong. “We’re just the opposite; we know they’re the ones paying the bills, and we want their input.”
Meanwhile, the university is sharing recipes, best practices, and thoughts about where this industry is headed next with representatives of a number of colleges and universities, said DiStefano, adding that college dining is a very collaborative business sector.
“We’re not competing against Stanford or UC Berkeley or UCLA,” he explained. “So we get to pool information and say, ‘what is UCLA doing that we should be doing?’ and ‘what is UMass doing that UCLA should be doing?’”
On a Grand Scale
They’re called ‘trash fish.’
That’s an affectionate industry term for a range of underutilized species, including hake, blue fish, Acadian red fish, pollack, and dogfish, said DiStefano, adding that the name originates from the fact that fishermen once simply threw these fish away because no one wanted them.
But as traditional staples such as cod and salmon have become overfished, attitudes about these trash fish have changed, and the university is now at the forefront of a movement to create a market for these species by including them in a number of recipes, such as the one for fish tacos. And by doing so, the school is supporting struggling fishermen, diversifying students’ palates, taking the pressure off over-fished species, and further promoting healthy eating.
“This allows us to support fishermen who might otherwise be out of business because there are limits on salmon and Atlantic cod,” DiStefano explained, adding that use of these trash fish is just one example of how the university’s dining service goes about meeting the many facets of its mission statement, everything from sustainability to healthy eating to supporting the local economy.
And that word ‘local’ has a broad definition, said both DiStefano and Toong, noting that the university buys from asparagus growers in Hadley, Angy’s in Westfield (pizza dough), Performance Food Group in Springfield (a $15 million annual contract), a bakery operation in Boston, and the Hadley Sugar Shack, among many others.
“It’s part of our mission to support people who support the economy around us — as we grow, they grow,” said DiStefano. “And when we survey our students, more than 75% of them say buying local is important to them. The word ‘local’ to them means they’re tied to the community, and community is very important to them.”
In addition to buying local, UMass Dining also puts a heavy focus on healthy eating, said Toong, adding that this is both a national trend and a reflection of changing habits — and attitudes — among today’s college students.
In response to this change, UMass Dining has initiated what it calls its ‘stealth health program.’ It covers all the bases, said Toong, from reducing sodium in recipes to serving more fruits and vegetables to providing portion control through a philosophy summed up with the phrase ‘small plates with big flavor.’
“Five years ago, we spent about $1.5 million on produce,” said Toong, using more numbers to get his points across. “This year, we spent close to $3 million.”
All these characteristics of the dining program — from the smaller portions to the diversity of the cuisine to the emphasis on sustainability — are clearly in evidence at Berkshire Dining Commons, which underwent extensive renovations six years ago, and the new Hampshire Dining Commons. Together, they serve the 6,000 people living in Southwest, one of the most densely populated areas in the country.
As he offered BusinessWest a tour of the former, DiStefano started at the so-called Noodle Bowl. “Noodles are hot right now,” he said, adding that this station enables students to pick not only their noodle — there are several options — but also the broth and toppings they want with it.
“This allows the customization of food,” he said, using that term for the first of many times, while noting that almost all the cooking is now done in front of the student, and meals are made to order.
This is true at the nearby vegetarian station, the salad station, an area where students can design their own flatbread pizza, the wok station, the Pasta Pronto station, and an area marked ‘street food.’
“This is the worldwide concept of food — anything that’s small and eaten by hand, like tapas and sliders,” he explained. “It’s all made to order — we’re continuously making small batches of it all day long.”
This is a trayless environment, DiStefano explained, adding that students will take what they need and go back for more if they need to, rather than piling things onto a tray. This concept, another idea that came from students, has enabled the school to reduce food waste by roughly 30%.
The open, oval layout at Berkshire, designed to eliminate lines and bottlenecks, was taken even further in Hampshire, said DiStefano, noting that best practices from dining commons around the country were incorporated into its design and operations.
“The oval design allows students to see everything around them, they can find a seat quickly, and they can engage with chefs behind the line in terms of what they’re cooking,” he explained. “And they can hear, smell, and see what’s being prepared in front of them.
“The oval design also diminishes queues, because you can pick a little bit at each station,” he went, “as opposed to going to one station and lining up and going to another station and lining up.”
Many of these same concepts will be put to use at a facility being built on the site of the Blue Wall, said David Eichstaedt, director of Retail Dining for the university.
He told BusinessWest that a new classroom building now under construction near the Campus Center will bring several thousand students each day to that part of the campus, and larger, more modern, more customer-friendly facilities are needed to serve that population.
The new eatery will include many of the features found in the renovated dining commons, including a bake shop, a host of food stations, and made-to-order foods. The yet-to-be-named facility — students will ultimately make that decision through social media — is scheduled to open this fall.
Lobster Tales
Last Halloween night, UMass Dining served surf and turf for the masses.
The program was called “Just Treats, No Tricks,” said DiStefano, and featured steaks and lobsters — 12,000 of them.
That grand meal is just one of many ways to measure just how far this program has come in a few decades, and how important food service has become for a school that may soon have a rival for its marching band when it comes to national acclaim.
As the chancellor said, “come for the food; stay for the education.”
George O’Brien can be reached at [email protected]
Monson Savings Bank Invests in Financial Literacy
Monson Savings Bank President Steven Lowell
“One of the things that has become clear to us over the past three or four years is that, when it comes to financial literacy, not everyone has a good understanding of how to manage their finances,” said Lowell, president of Monson Savings Bank.
“I get a chance to see it on a day-to-day basis, and you’d be surprised,” he added, citing the Financial Literacy Survey conducted last year by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, showing that 40% of the public would grade themselves a C or worse when it comes to their financial literacy.
“It shows up when they’re looking to approve a loan, when you look at people’s personal balance sheets, their debt levels — they just have not been smart about how they borrow money, the way they try to save money,” he continued. “We thought, rather than just complain about it, we’d try to do something about it.”
When Lowell took the reins at MSB three years ago, the bank already had accounts targeted at young people, such as its NextGen Checking for teenagers and college students, but realized he needed to do more.
“Those products were very successful; they started to get young people thinking about their finances. But we quickly realized that wasn’t enough, that we need to start even earlier,” he explaned. “So we started going to classrooms in our communities, targeting the fifth and sixth grades, teaching a course called Dollars & Sense.”
That course features an online game called MoneyIsland, which teaches children about financial literacy — what’s the difference between a need and a want, why it’s important to pay off one’s credit-card balance every month, the difference between earned income and passive income, and other topics. “They’re learning some pretty complex subjects through the game and through classroom instruction.”
After six one-hour sessions, he said, “kids come away with amazing understanding, and hopefully we help them get on the right path. We’ve had great feedback, not only from school administrators and teachers, but from parents, who tell us, ‘I’m learning from my kids.’ That’s good to hear.”
The learning doesn’t stop there, though. Monson Savings Bank has cultivated a reputation for educating the community, whether it’s through public seminars on topics like first-time homebuyer programs, special-needs trust, and long-term-care insurance, or through the bank’s relationship with the Massachusetts Financial Education Collaborative and its online financial-education program, masssaves.org (more on that later).
“The bank was doing some of this already, but I’ve always had an interest in the education part of the job — not only outside the bank, but teaching the folks inside, too,” Lowell told BusinessWest. “I had a great mentor, and I’ve tried to take on that role for a number of individuals who work for me.
“I encourage other bank officers to do that, too, to encourage this education culture,” he went on. “I’m thrilled because people here have gotten excited about it. The branch managers have so much fun going into classrooms, seeing these children learning about finance. They’re energized by it. It’s really taken on a life of its own.”
MSB as a whole has experienced new life under Lowell, who has continued the impressive growth pattern of his predecessor, Roland Desrochers, who saw the bank increase its assets from around $80 million to $236 million in 15 years. Three years after Lowell took over, that number is $272 million. “We’ve had about 6% to 7% growth every year,” he said.
For this issue’s focus on banking and finance, BusinessWest sits down with Lowell to talk about the specific ways in which Monson Savings Bank is growing its financial clout while maintaining its tradition of community engagement — and its ongoing efforts to create a more financially savvy customer base.
Loan Stars
Monson Savings Bank’s most notable recent success may be its commercial-lending operations, which earned recognition from the Small Business Assoc. as the Western Massachusetts 7a Lender of the Year. The SBA noted that the bank loaned to a wide variety of retail, professional, and consumer-service businesses in more than 10 different industries, from transportation and construction to healthcare and childcare.
“We’re a little different than most community banks in that we place a heavy emphasis on commercial lending and offering commercial products in the marketplace,” Lowell said. “I’ve been happy with the way we’ve been able to grow that business over the last few years; we have been in the top 20 commercial lenders in the state for the past two and a half years. For a bank our size, that’s a pretty remarkable achievement.”
MSB has expanded over the past two decades from its original Monson location to branches in Wilbraham, Hampden, and Ware.
It helps, Lowell said, that more companies are beginning to reinvest and borrow after several years of hesitancy. “They’re growing, expanding, going after new territories. I wouldn’t say it’s as strong as it was 10 years ago, but we’re starting to see some positives in this economy, from a banking standpoint.”
Historically low interest rates drove a healthy refinance business at MSB and most other banks, he added, but with rates ticking back up, refis have ground to a halt, and new-mortgage volume still isn’t strong. “So with the commercial area doing so well, making up for that, it’s pretty significant.”
The SBA award is an exciting milestone, he added, “because it goes to the heart of our brand promise to help small businesses prosper. These are the businesses that drive our local and regional economies, and it feels great to play a role in this economic activity.”
On both the commercial and retail sides, Monson Savings Bank has embraced new technology, Lowell said, entering the mobile-banking arena two years ago — customers can even transfer money between MSB and another bank on their smartphones — and introducing remote check deposit last year.
He said when he arrived in 2011 from the much larger Cape Cod Cooperative Bank, he assumed he’d need to be patient with respect to introducing high-tech products at Monson. “But I was surprised how aggressive they were with respect to technology. We’re always looking for the next new product. This business is all about convenience for customers. We have to make it as easy as possible.”
Meanwhile, the bank continues to grow its investment arm, offering products through Infinex Financial Services and regularly ranking in the top 20% of all Infinex banks, typically first or second among banks in its asset range. At the same time, MSB expanded its geographic footprint last year, opening a branch in Ware to go along with offices in Monson, Wilbraham, and Hampden.
“We’ve had a lot of traffic,” Lowell said of the new branch on Route 32 in Ware. “We opened in late June last year, and the branch is already up to $12 million in deposits. We’re really happy about that.”
Even with the temporary drag on profits involved with opening a new branch, he added, “we’ve been really pleased with our profitability over the past few years; we’ve been in the top 20% of banks in the state in terms of profitability.”
With that growth, however, has come increased challenges — for all banks, really — from regulatory bodies, much of it stemming from the financial crash of 2008, leading to Monson’s hiring of a full-time compliance officer.
“I understand why these regulations have come into being,” he noted. “Having said that, they really weren’t aimed at the smaller community banks. We’re not the ones who caused the problems that affected the economy, but we’ve certainly been impacted to the point where it’s necessary to add a full-time compliance officer. You can’t afford not to. It doesn’t matter what size you are; they expect you to follow the rules.”
Community Ties
While bank executives are educating themselves on these new compliance issues, Lowell continues to stress community outreach and financial literacy.
Through a connection forged while serving on the board of the United Way, he became involved in the Hampden County Financial Stability Network, which introduced him to the Massachusetts Financial Education Collaborative (MFEC), a group of nonprofits, private institutions, government agencies, and other bodies that work together to increase economic stability in Massachusetts through financial education, personal savings, and access to wealth-building assets such as homes, cars, college educations, and small business.
“These folks have got a great program, which they offer online — financial coaching for people in need,” he said of the MFEC project known as MassSaves and its online resource, masssaves.org, which offers financial information and a portal to one-on-one financial coaching via phone, e-mail, and Skype.
“We thought it was a great way to supplement what we’re trying to do in the community,” he added. “They heard about what we’re doing, we entered into a relationship with the collaborative, and now I’m on their steering committee. We’re invested, as they say.”
Monson Savings Bank has invested in its communities in other ways as well, most notably through annual donations of more than $100,000 to various nonprofits.
“The year that I arrived was the first year we actually asked the community to help us select some of the agencies or benefactors that would receive some of the funds,” he told BusinessWest, adding that the bank solicits nominations on Facebook, and the top 10 vote getters receive donations.
“We make sure our customers are included,” he said. “It’s another way they can stay connected to us.”
Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]
The following building permits were issued during the month of May 2014.
AGAWAM
Clinical Research
1408 Main St.
$470,000 — Construct addition
Heritage Dialysis Center
67 Cooper St.
$155,000 — Modifications to existing dialysis clinic
AMHERST
Wilson Properties Group, LLC
179 Northampton Road
$200,000 — Construction of a two-family dwelling
Echo Hill Townhouse Condominiums
Webster Court
$14,000 — New roof on Building B
CHICOPEE
James Mientkiewicz
611 Memorial Ave.
$6,000 — Interior tenant fit-up
Safe and Sound
428 East St.
$8,500 — New roof
GREENFIELD
John Chakalos
130 Colrain Road
$20,000 — Remove and install automated entry sliding door system
Robar Inc.
237 Mohawk Trail
$353,000 — Expand store into vacant space
Syfeld Greenfield Associates
237 Mohawk Trail
$15,000 — Renovation for new tenant
Quality Realty Partnerships, LLP
55 Federal St.
$11,000 — Interior renovations
PALMER
Blue Wave Energy
2189 Baptist Hill St.
$3,602,000 — Phase 1 ground mounted solar array
Camp Ramah of New England Inc.
39 Bennett St.
$180,000 — Construct new cabin for summer camp for children
ITW Realty Trust
528 Old Warren Road
$190,000 — Telecommunications tower
Wing Memorial Hospital
40 Wright St.
$63,000 — Kitchen renovations
Wing Memorial Hospital
40 Wright St.
$41,000 — Renovate storage room to chemical storage
SOUTHWICK
SBA Network Service
656 College Highway
$15,000 — Install three antenna cells
SPRINGFIELD
Estaban Vanegas
1219 State St.
$10,500 — Renovations for a beauty salon
John Veronesi
971 East Columbus Ave.
$7,000 — Siding repairs
Willie and Martha Collins
92 Alden St.
$16,000 — New roof
WESTFIELD
Linda Grabowski
3 Shepard St.
$14,000 — Commercial alteration
Noble Hospital
115 West Silver St.
$5,500 — Reinstall suppression system in kitchen
WEST SPRINGFIELD
City of West Springfield
1 Unico Way
$88,000 — 40’ x 40’ shelter at Park
Safelite Auto Glass
57 Norman St.
$10,000 — Interior and exterior renovations
West Springfield Church of Christ
61 Upper Church St.
$5,000 — Remodel of food warming and preparation area
The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
GILL
96 Boyle Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Nicholas E. Stevens
Seller: Karen Woodbury
Date: 04/11/14
75 West Gill Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Wesley Brooks
Seller: Graveline, Theodore, (Estate)
Date: 04/09/14
GREENFIELD
82 Cleveland St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $166,000
Buyer: Durand D. Lively
Seller: James E. Filipkowski
Date: 04/18/14
81 Devens St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $146,500
Buyer: Rebecca G. Devino-Snow
Seller: Houten J. Van
Date: 04/18/14
337 Log Plain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $307,000
Buyer: Kenneth A. Ward
Seller: Peter J. Chornyak
Date: 04/10/14
17 Pickett Lane
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Mark A. Fay
Seller: Sheila Wonsey
Date: 04/18/14
69 Riddell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Shamus P. Hogan
Seller: Adele B. Hall
Date: 04/10/14
40 School St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $337,500
Buyer: STS Properties LLC
Seller: TAE Realty Inc. LLC
Date: 04/16/14
LEVERETT
312 Long Plain Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $215,728
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jaya S. Boerman
Date: 04/18/14
MONTAGUE
3 Church St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Jeffrey S. Pratt
Seller: Nicholas E. Stevens
Date: 04/11/14
1 Davis St.
Montague, MA 01301
Amount: $198,000
Buyer: Nicholas C. Licata
Seller: Michael S. Thomas
Date: 04/11/14
21 West Main St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Richard Young
Seller: Millers Falls Ent. LLC
Date: 04/09/14
NORTHFIELD
793 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Reginald C. Neff
Seller: Everett E. Wickline
Date: 04/15/14
43 Warwick Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $219,528
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Elizabeth A. Salls
Date: 04/14/14
ORANGE
East Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Sea Mountain Ventures 2
Seller: Lane Construction Corp.
Date: 04/14/14
83 New Athol Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Sea Mountain Ventures 2
Seller: Lane Construction Corp.
Date: 04/14/14
Route 2A
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Sea Mountain Ventures 2
Seller: Lane Construction Corp.
Date: 04/14/14
SHELBURNE
241 Barnard Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Anne L. Burdett
Seller: Dale Jones
Date: 04/17/14
SUNDERLAND
31 Garage Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jason M. Kicza
Seller: Peter A. Gelinas
Date: 04/15/14
320 River Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Thaddeus C. Smiarowski
Seller: Charles J. Smiarowski
Date: 04/11/14
HAMPDEN COUNTY
AGAWAM
50 Birch Hill Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Robert F. Lemke
Seller: Paul D. Hess
Date: 04/17/14
28 Carmel Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Douglas C. Johnson
Seller: George R. Roberts
Date: 04/07/14
652 Cooper St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Joseph Cobb
Seller: Mary A. Peterson
Date: 04/10/14
4 Corey St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Emily Cassidy
Seller: Gina M. Bishop
Date: 04/11/14
185 High St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $172,500
Buyer: Robbie Hewitt
Seller: James W. Fiore
Date: 04/15/14
1178 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Martin M. Radewick
Seller: George R. Gagliarducci
Date: 04/14/14
23 New York Ave.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $284,000
Buyer: Daniel S. Saimeri
Seller: Charles L. Flink
Date: 04/11/14
644 North St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $198,500
Buyer: Andrew M. Morrison
Seller: Christopher D. Rochon
Date: 04/11/14
45 Tom St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Jason M. Alexander
Seller: Daniel S. Saimeri
Date: 04/11/14
232 Walnut St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Paul E. Illouz
Seller: Liliya Kulyak
Date: 04/18/14
28 William St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Calvin H. Tang
Seller: Carol Cavicchioli
Date: 04/16/14
CHICOPEE
15 Daley St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $187,500
Buyer: John Nadeau
Seller: James Whalen
Date: 04/15/14
120 Dejordy Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $323,000
Buyer: Michael Shea
Seller: Roger C. Paul
Date: 04/15/14
518 Lafleur Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $159,800
Buyer: Charles E. Embury
Seller: Robert G. Gordon
Date: 04/15/14
95 Main St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: William J. Stetson
Seller: James L. Domingos
Date: 04/15/14
526 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Gregory Guertin
Seller: Waycon Inc.
Date: 04/17/14
26 Plymouth St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Monica Dossantos
Seller: FHLM
Date: 04/11/14
13 Rose St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Joseph R. Wohlers
Seller: Francis Seymour
Date: 04/18/14
58 Szetela Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Gustavo A. Hernandez
Seller: John W. Thomas
Date: 04/17/14
67 Wildermere St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $155,500
Buyer: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Seller: Lisa A. Crabtree
Date: 04/17/14
EAST LONGMEADOW
Black Dog Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: John F. Gabriel
Seller: Black Dog Lane LLC
Date: 04/17/14
28 Fields Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $466,000
Buyer: Paul G. Chiampa
Seller: D. R. Chestnut LLC
Date: 04/15/14
30 Sanford St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Marisa Barone
Seller: Hilario A. Candelaria
Date: 04/15/14
9 William St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Dale Petrolati
Seller: Wayne Blais
Date: 04/14/14
HAMPDEN
33 Colony Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Douglas A. Yandow
Seller: Blais, Elizabeth A., (Estate)
Date: 04/11/14
93 Sessions Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $153,000
Buyer: Lawrence R. Bauer
Seller: Donna Agard
Date: 04/11/14
HOLLAND
32 Barry Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: John D. Mitchell
Seller: Allen Keyes
Date: 04/14/14
21 Kimball Hill Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $187,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Stevens
Seller: Patrick L. Lacaire
Date: 04/14/14
236 Mashapaug Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $123,000
Buyer: Richard J. Lambert
Seller: Ronald A. Thebodo
Date: 04/17/14
HOLYOKE
54 Claremont Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $193,500
Buyer: Mary M. Wiseman
Seller: Edward K. Lundrigan
Date: 04/11/14
100 Columbus Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Cronin
Seller: Steven Reno
Date: 04/07/14
304 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $143,500
Buyer: Cindylou E. Chevalier
Seller: Richard A. Krzanowski
Date: 04/18/14
15 Keefe Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Joan A. Wright
Date: 04/15/14
56 Laurel St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $133,600
Buyer: Alan J. Mailhott
Seller: Alan J. Mailhott
Date: 04/07/14
24 Myrtle Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $159,400
Buyer: Amy A. Roque
Seller: Joniec, Joseph P., (Estate)
Date: 04/08/14
30 Quinn Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Wanda Thomas
Seller: William J. Conz
Date: 04/18/14
24 Thomas Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $117,200
Buyer: Richard R. Filley
Seller: FNMA
Date: 04/17/14
LONGMEADOW
384 Converse St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Heather L. Andresen
Seller: Jeffrey R. Cossin
Date: 04/11/14
78 Emerson Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $304,000
Buyer: Jean A. McCaffery
Seller: Carol R. Greco
Date: 04/11/14
114 Englewood Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $511,000
Buyer: Karen L. Mendelsohn
Seller: Boulder Hill Construction LLC
Date: 04/11/14
80 Glenbrook Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $401,000
Buyer: Smitha Iyer
Seller: Rushton S. Zepernick
Date: 04/15/14
269 Green Hill Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Brian P. Marshall
Seller: Allan A. Broverman
Date: 04/16/14
200 Merriweather Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Sunil Sharma
Seller: Patrick O. Mulligan
Date: 04/16/14
35 Twin Hills Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $650,000
Seller: Albert I. Chang
Date: 04/08/14
95 Warren Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $248,000
Buyer: Augusto C. Bairos
Seller: Albert D. James
Date: 04/15/14
121 Wilkin Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $272,500
Buyer: Michael P. Bombich
Seller: Carol A. Fox
Date: 04/15/14
LUDLOW
1400 Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Luso FCU
Seller: Anthony J. Budrecki
Date: 04/08/14
119 Haviland St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $125,000
Seller: Carlos Goncalves
Date: 04/17/14
22 Lyon St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Mary R. Misiaszek
Seller: Andrew J. Pietras
Date: 04/07/14
21 Regall St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $175,500
Buyer: Trisha G. Machado
Seller: James F. Pereira
Date: 04/11/14
70 Sroka Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $229,500
Buyer: Manuel A. Lourence
Seller: David Archuleta
Date: 04/10/14
17 Stivens Terrace
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $164,000
Buyer: Richard Sulikowski
Seller: Michael L. Olenick
Date: 04/18/14
23 White St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Paul J. Adzima
Seller: Beverly J. Miller
Date: 04/17/14
MONSON
196 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $167,800
Buyer: Orion P. Battige
Seller: Michael J. Edgett
Date: 04/18/14
PALMER
15 King St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $205,328
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: John F. Somers
Date: 04/17/14
48 Longview St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $202,500
Buyer: Patricia L. James
Seller: William R. Riley
Date: 04/17/14
SPRINGFIELD
114 Abbott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $148,000
Buyer: Anthony P. Disantis
Seller: Maria Defatima
Date: 04/11/14
24 Benz St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Willie S. Ballard
Seller: Lucas Dempsey
Date: 04/11/14
80 Bevier St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Jorge A. Rivera
Seller: Deborah M. Tracy
Date: 04/15/14
5 Bog Hollow Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $146,000
Buyer: Darren James
Seller: Jason Balut
Date: 04/17/14
44 Calhoun St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $225,407
Buyer: JP Morgan Chase Bank
Seller: Juan Vazquez
Date: 04/17/14
40 Chalfonte Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $194,000
Buyer: Carlos E. Martinez
Seller: Collette A. Fox
Date: 04/07/14
50 Crystal Brook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Salvador Dejesus
Seller: Sara Omartian
Date: 04/09/14
131 Fox Hill Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $169,083
Buyer: Cheryl A. Mumley
Seller: Sean P. Sullivan
Date: 04/18/14
122 Garland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Iris R. Gonzalez
Seller: Nancy J. McGreal
Date: 04/11/14
64 Gillette Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $146,000
Buyer: Allison Sowa
Seller: Ann M. Martin
Date: 04/18/14
41 Howes St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $165,500
Buyer: Alana N. Murray
Seller: Stewart T. Hillios
Date: 04/08/14
97 Huron St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $141,500
Buyer: Karalynn M. Paley-Ryan
Seller: Salvador Dejesus
Date: 04/09/14
207 Jamaica St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $227,046
Buyer: US Bank
Seller: Yvonne R. Wallace
Date: 04/10/14
106 Littleton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $129,900
Buyer: Francisco Luna
Seller: Syed A. Shamsi
Date: 04/16/14
406 Longhill St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $394,000
Buyer: Alfonso W. Nardi
Seller: Daniel J. Molta
Date: 04/08/14
63 Martel Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Charles L. Williams
Seller: Williams, Mary C., (Estate)
Date: 04/15/14
N/A
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $202,000
Buyer: Edgardo A. Marcano
Seller: Matthew J. Brodeur
Date: 04/10/14
97 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $116,000
Buyer: Joshua Reid
Seller: FNMA
Date: 04/07/14
538 Page Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $221,000
Buyer: Samuel Springer
Seller: Tomasina Reyes
Date: 04/17/14
78 Phillips Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Gary A. Daula
Seller: Michael A. Torcia
Date: 04/18/14
70 Randolph St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Carlos M. Guzman
Seller: Lisa A. Howard
Date: 04/18/14
85 Shefford St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Jennifer S. Endicott
Seller: William P. Tarnowski
Date: 04/17/14
89 Weymouth St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Michael V. Placanico
Seller: Sara C. Anderson-Potts
Date: 04/14/14
109 Willowbrook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Gregory G. Sprofera
Seller: Casey S. Fuller
Date: 04/18/14
SOUTHWICK
19 Beach Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $219,900
Buyer: Marta M. James
Seller: Christopher Tomashofski
Date: 04/18/14
37 Deer Run
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Pramod Sarraf
Seller: Pine Knoll Inc.
Date: 04/11/14
2 Dewitt Circle
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $374,000
Buyer: Mark Richardson
Seller: Michael F. McCormick
Date: 04/18/14
23 Laurel Ridge Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Fernando J. Carreira
Seller: Timothy S. Lawler
Date: 04/14/14
4 Nicholson Hill Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Andrey Antropov
Seller: Henry P. Beausoleil
Date: 04/16/14
1 Sugar Maple Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: EIG Properties LLC
Seller: Pinnacle Estates At the Ranch
Date: 04/15/14
94 Summer Dr.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $152,265
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Ransom Y. Place
Date: 04/08/14
WALES
2 Lake George Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $183,900
Buyer: Joseph Mahoney
Seller: Nicholas Markopoulos
Date: 04/17/14
WEST SPRINGFIELD
76 Blossom Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $304,900
Buyer: Ryan R. Donohue
Seller: Richard Duquette
Date: 04/17/14
65 Cataumet Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Richard Duquette
Seller: Michael D. Gonnello
Date: 04/17/14
59 Lowell St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Nazira Kasimova
Seller: Khakim Kasimov
Date: 04/14/14
27 Lower Beverly Hills
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Casey S. Fuller
Seller: Jeanne B. Brown
Date: 04/18/14
332 Sibley Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $333,000
Buyer: Jonathan G. Wagner
Seller: Shibley Sweeney RT
Date: 04/18/14
256 Valley View Circle
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $242,900
Buyer: Brandon T. Dantonio
Seller: Wanda J. Thomas
Date: 04/18/14
151 Woodmont St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $158,500
Buyer: Andrew J. Fiala
Seller: Walter J. Dufresne
Date: 04/08/14
WESTFIELD
86 Devon Terrace
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Heidi J. Quigley
Seller: Christopher M. Weppner
Date: 04/11/14
Hillside Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Beth A. Dawson
Seller: Benjamin Hallmark
Date: 04/10/14
85 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $115,100
Buyer: Winchester RT
Seller: Stonecrest Income & Opportunity
Date: 04/14/14
Pochassic Road (off)
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Joseph P. Boisseau
Seller: Pauline Boisseau
Date: 04/11/14
26 Rachael Terrace
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Edwin P. Rowell
Seller: Kurt S. Shea
Date: 04/18/14
89 Reservoir Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Rajesh Sarwal
Seller: Rebecca W. Grubelic
Date: 04/17/14
15 Smith Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jessica M. Benson
Seller: Lisa M. Bailey
Date: 04/17/14
188 Springdale Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jessica Rodriguez
Seller: G&F Custom Built Homes Inc.
Date: 04/08/14
14 Valley View Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $164,900
Buyer: Antonio C. Bruno
Seller: Travis Modlish
Date: 04/08/14
West Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Joseph P. Boisseau
Seller: Pauline Boisseau
Date: 04/11/14
631 West Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Joseph P. Boisseau
Seller: Pauline Boisseau
Date: 04/11/14
39 West Silver St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $481,122
Buyer: LJB Realty LLC
Seller: William F. Barry
Date: 04/16/14
WILBRAHAM
15 Magnolia St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $149,900
Buyer: Michelle G. Williams
Seller: Marcella Bowyer
Date: 04/18/14
8 Marilyn Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Ryan M. Conway
Seller: James A. Dirico
Date: 04/18/14
5 Merrill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Nardi
Seller: Triton Leasing & Rental LLC
Date: 04/18/14
407 Monson Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $229,000
Buyer: William J. Henaghan
Seller: New England Developers
Date: 04/18/14
505 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Samantha D. Burns
Seller: Simpson, William C., (Estate)
Date: 04/18/14
25 Red Gap Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $555,000
Buyer: Kurt L. Brannigan
Seller: Zigmund A. Peret
Date: 04/18/14
22 W. Colonial Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $292,750
Buyer: Vinculum LLC
Seller: Strype Hampden RT
Date: 04/18/14
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
AMHERST
57 East Pleasant St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $930,000
Buyer: 57 East Pleasant St. LLC
Seller: James H. David
Date: 04/09/14
131 Middle St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $765,520
Buyer: Alison Green-Barton
Seller: William V. Farnham
Date: 04/07/14
180 Strong St.
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: David S. Jones
Seller: Mary M. Cathcart
Date: 04/18/14
331 Strong St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Meredith R. Rolfe
Seller: Lois E. Dethier
Date: 04/15/14
27 The Hollow
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: RGINK LLC
Seller: Housing Allowance Project
Date: 04/17/14
BELCHERTOWN
531 Bardwell St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Thiago Garcia
Seller: Deborah J. Porter-Savoie
Date: 04/07/14
682 Bay Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Keith V. Brace
Seller: Michael E. Misiaszek
Date: 04/17/14
66 Granby Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $455,304
Buyer: Jessica K. Dubois
Seller: Carriage Town Homes LLC
Date: 04/09/14
111 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Rocco J. Malaspina
Seller: Vision Investment Props.
Date: 04/08/14
250 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $299,095
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Joseph W. Koslik
Date: 04/15/14
EASTHAMPTON
23 Beyer Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $220,500
Buyer: Jeffrey A. Zera
Seller: Ronald A. Duval
Date: 04/17/14
19 Chestnut St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Matthew Nalewanski
Seller: Elizabeth A. Cowell
Date: 04/17/14
13 Clinton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Beverly W. Floyd
Seller: Zofia Baranowski
Date: 04/16/14
12 Knight Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $234,000
Buyer: Erich D. Roggenbuck
Seller: Toby J. Flanagan
63 Loudville Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Allen R. Tautznik
Seller: Bernard P. Gawle
Date: 04/14/14
45 Pleasant St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Benjamin Premo
Seller: Daniel L. Polachek
Date: 04/10/14
46 Union St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Stephen C. Robinson
Seller: Thomas H. Gelb
Date: 04/14/14
GRANBY
153 Batchelor St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Edwin E. Olmeda
Seller: FNMA
Date: 04/07/14
139 Carver St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Celine M. Hamilton-Quill
Seller: Raymond F. Turgeon
Date: 04/09/14
HADLEY
88 Mount Warner Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Nicholas M. Simonich
Seller: Joel M. Greenbaum
Date: 04/15/14
HATFIELD
Jericho Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Aquadro FT
Seller: Scott C. Harlow
Date: 04/08/14
NORTHAMPTON
357 Bridge St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $417,000
Buyer: Michael R. Banas
Seller: Hutchins Family Partnership
Date: 04/09/14
98 Brierwood Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Lukas J. Rosov
Seller: Powers FT
Date: 04/16/14
20 Middle St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Bradley B. Bacom
Seller: Fournier, Catherine A., (Estate)
Date: 04/15/14
721 Westhampton Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Lindsay Rhoades
Seller: FNMA
Date: 04/17/14
PELHAM
142 Amherst Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Carey Clouse
Seller: United Church Of Pelham
Date: 04/08/14
SOUTH HADLEY
12 Alvord St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Millard
Seller: Michael J. Canter
Date: 04/10/14
117 College St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Mamoona Azam
Seller: Jeffrey Barna
Date: 04/18/14
13 Magnolia Terrace
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Donna M. Theroux
Seller: Delmer F. Borah
Date: 04/07/14
568 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: 568 Newton Street RT
Seller: Sicotte, Marilyn J., (Estate)
Date: 04/17/14
WARE
130 Babcock Tavern Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Susan J. Beachell
Seller: Michael A. Edwards
Date: 04/16/14
125 Bacon Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $289,900
Buyer: Melvin C. Weagle
Seller: Michael Shea
Date: 04/15/14
3 Boivin Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $121,000
Buyer: Paul A. Darling
Seller: Mark R. Sowersby
Date: 04/10/14
WILLIAMSBURG
4 Pine St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Kenneth I. Borden
Seller: David B. Adair
Date: 04/15/14
WORTHINGTON
76 Radiker Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $159,021
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Carol L. Simisky
Date: 04/09/14
The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of May 2014.
AGAWAM
Ayotte Tree Service
4 Independence Road
Joshua Ayotte
Bancroft Bridals
967 Springfield St.
Mark Kendall
J.L. Cleaning Company
43 Royal St.
Lyudmila Barisov
CHICOPEE
Albee & Sons Contracting
32 Providence St.
David Albee
Chicopee Scrap and Auto Recycling
235 Meadow St.
Patel Hemant-Kumar
Emerald Cleaning Service
33 Leclair St.
Juan Garcia
Nelson’s Home Improvement
18 Beeler Ave.
Nelson Pantoja Jr.
Sofia Amelia Home
34 Madison St.
Sofia Hoyle
Tri-State Roofing Systems Inc.
788 Sheridan St.
Jon J. Hambley
GREENFIELD
Crown Mediation
298 High St.
Juanita Thomas
End Grain Artistry
181 Deerfield St.
Alexander Giguere
Four Corners Fine Wine and Spirits
402 Federal St.
Steven Schechterle
Replay
231 Main St.
Alan Cadran
Western Mass Roller Derby
1385 Bernardston Road
Katherine Skipper
Wiley and Russell Manufacturing
40 Russell St.
David Brock
PALMER
AJC Mechanical, LLC
1008 Baptist Hill St.
Lawrence Caputo Jr.
Computer Training of America
1448 North Main St.
Thomas Gingras
JWB Enterprises
37 Ware St.
Jason Bessette
Marlene’s Beauty Salon
1461 North Main St.
Jean Ciuka
Palmer Recycling Corporation
2 Fenton St.
Pamela Douthwright
Trackside Motors, LLC
1316 Main St.
William Davis
SOUTHWICK
Berkshire Kitchens & Baths
8 Evergreen St.
Dean Porter
Coyote Vapors
51 Tannery Road
Stephen Kostusiak
Cruise Planners
2 Lauren Lane
Denise Edinger
Hair of the Dog
610 College Highway
Jennie Tierney
SPRINGFIELD
413 Video Productions
40 Edgewood St.
Aaron Williams
A. Diamond Investment
371 Sunrise Terrace
Virginia Sally
ACC Business
351 Bridge St.
Michael R. Weitz
Adalia Couture
33 Villa Parkway
Dania K. Scott
Angel House of Magic
224 Talmadge Dr.
Angel M. Mojica
APC Repair
132 Bellevue Ave.
David Krisna
Asadero Del Caribe
2757 Main St.
Isidro Rodriguez
Avenue Six Luxury Apparel
17 Eldridge St.
Sasha Feliciano
B2Z Mini Mart
468 Bridge St.
Muhammad Bilal
Body Parts Finder
45 Cambridge St.
David Grant
Brofloe Music Group
143 Main St.
Eric Newkirk
Brother’s Market
106 Oak Grove Ave.
Christian Jimenez
Buen Provecho Restaurant
30 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Mildred I. Cruz
Business Buying Solutions
2358 Wilbraham Road
Joseph A. Monzillo
Coastline Automotive
501 St. James Ave.
Beris F. Gouldbourne
D. Johnson
64 Fernald St.
Derek Johnson
Del’s Repair Service
53 Sunrise Terrace
Delmar R. Hermany
Dillweedz Café
91 State St.
Hai X. Nguyen
Drona, LLC
477 Boston Road
Ramchandra Parekh
Fast Hands
426 Sumner Ave.
Jermaine Cowell
Findik Corporation
1350 Allen St.
Omer Karaarslan
First Class Custom Carpentry
440 Sumner Ave.
Dane R. Stillson
Fresh Homes
94 Jonquil Dr.
Dana Botta-Arroyo
Garvey Landscaping
448 Tinkham Road
Dennis Garvey
Gemini Barbershop
45 Pearl St.
Benjamin Parrilla
JK Tiles
27 Devens St.
Jan Kochman
Wicked Flyboarding
25 Acrebrook Road
Richard Daniel
YMM Services Inc.
295 Allen St.
Yasir Osman
WESTFIELD
JR Cleaning Service
18 Dubois St.
Jesus Felix
Lecrenski Brothers Inc.
14 Delmont Ave.
Dana Lecrenski
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Affiance-Events
93 Charles Ave.
Angela Cooper
Beauty & Nail Supply
366 Memorial Ave.
Long H. Ly
C & N Renovations
174 Birnie Ave.
Christopher Guyette
Construction Design Solutions
514 Morgan Road
Michael Mason
M & S Transportation
171 Falmouth Road
Mark C. Masi
Moreau Distributing
1583 Riverdale St.
Robert W. Moreau
Native Lands
919 Elm St.
Stephen C. Piatt
Primitive Friends Country
235 Forest Glen
Erin Rogers
Thibault Fuel, LLC
41 Chapin St.
Rene Thibault
Turkish Cultural Center
507 Union St.
Arif Yilmar
The following business incorporations were recorded in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties and are the latest available. They are listed by community.
AMHERST
GMASS Inc., 34 Main St., Unit 1, Amherst, MA 01002. Zhuangping Yi, same. Import and export.
EASTHAMPTON
ESB Investment Corporation, 36 Main St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Matthew Sosik, 97 Arnold Road, Fiskdale, MA 01518. Securities corporation.
EAST LONGMEADOW
New England Fence Works Corp., 26 James St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Samantha Marszalek, 403 Main St., Somers, CT 06071. Fencing and construction.
FEEDING HILLS
Musa Excavating Contractors Inc., 1132 North St. Ext., Feeding Hills, MA 01030. Aaron Musa, same. Excavation.
GREAT BARRINGTOIN
Jess Cooney Interiors Inc., 30 West Ave., Great Barrington, MA 01230. Jessie Cooney, same. Interior design and related services.
GREENFIELD
Lady Fatima Inc., 142 Mohawk Trail, Greenfield, MA 01301. Aneesa Batool, 25 Venice Ave., Johnston, RI 02919. Convenience store with gas station.
LENOX
FJV Sales & Consulting Corporation, 230 Hubbard St., Lenox, MA 01240. Francis Joseph Vahle Jr., same. Sales and consulting for the decorative laminate industry.
LUDLOW
Oasis Development Inc., 288 Woodland Circle, Ludlow, MA 01056. Marcel A. Nunes, same. Real estate and construction of new residential properties.
Polish American Catholic Assoc., 30 Lockland St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Caroline Bobala, 83 Booth St., Ludlow, MA 01056. To promote the faith basis organization.
NORTHAMPTON
Pamoja Tujenge International Development Corporation, 54 Columbus Ave., Northampton, MA 01060. Christine LaRouche, same. To assist communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo and put in place sustainable health and education infrastructures.
PITTSFIELD
F & J Restaurant Bar & Nightclub Inc., 1 Hall Place, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Jamie Marie Santos, same. Full-service restaurant.
Mezzie’s Variety Inc., 640 Tyler St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Adam P. Lacasse, 98 Central Berkshire Blvd., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Variety store and luncheonette restaurant.
SOUTHAMPTON
Grace United Church Inc., 121 Pomeroy Meadow Road, Southampton, MA 01073. Stephen H. Behlke, same. Church.
SPRINGFIELD
Faith Christian Centers Inc., 37 Wilkes St., Springfield, MA 01119. Harold L. Moore, 31 Mallowhill Road, Springfield, MA 01129. Religious and charitable organization.
Mosy Restaurant Inc., 137 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA 01103. Oscar A. Mena, same. Latin food restaurant.
Improvements Begin to Camp STAR Angelina
SPRINGFIELD — State Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. was on hand recently for a groundbreaking ceremony for improvements to Camp STAR Angelina in Springfield’s Forest Park. “The Patrick Administration is committed to creating open space and parks across the Commonwealth because recreational opportunities improve the lives of both residents and visitors,” Sullivan said. “We are especially thrilled to help make Camp STAR Angelina the first universally designed day camp in Western Mass.” The Patrick Administration provided $1.23 million to help fund the construction of a zero-depth entry pool and accessible bath house, a universal outdoor amphitheater, and an accessible trail to Porter Lake. The pool is expected to open in time for campers to use it this summer, and the amphitheater and trail are expected to be completed this fall. The city of Springfield is contributing $600,000 toward the project. These upgraded facilities will also be made available to the public for a wide range of programs and events, such as picnics, family reunions, swimming, school field trips, and outdoor theater. Camp STAR Angelina, situated in the 700-acre Forest Park, serves youth and young adults with and without disabilities, medical concerns, and hearing and visual impairments. “All of our residents, especially the youth of Springfield, deserve the opportunity to participate in outdoor recreation regardless of physical ability,” Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said. “Camp STAR Angelina will become the home of therapeutic recreation for the city.” Springfield is one of seven cities across Massachusetts receiving funding through EEA’s Signature Urban Parks program. Through this program, the Patrick administration seeks to revitalize urban communities by opening up or upgrading green spaces for outdoor recreation and improving access to natural resources like waterways and historic neighborhood landmarks. “This is a great investment in the Springfield community,” said state Sen. James Welch. “These improvements to Camp STAR Angelina will create a terrific resource for our residents.”
Five Area Finalists Chosen for Nonprofit Excellence Awards
WESTERN MASS. — The Massachusetts Nonprofit Network (MNN) recently announced that five nonprofits and nonprofit professionals in the Pioneer Valley and Berkshires have been selected as finalists for the 2014 Nonprofit Excellence Awards. They include the Berkshire Youth Development Project , which serves youth and young adults in Berkshire County; Jay Breines, CEO of the Holyoke Health Center, which provides low-cost medical care; Nonotuck Resources Associates Inc. in Florence, which improves service access and delivery to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities; Donovan Arthen, executive director of PeaceJam New England in Northampton, which matches Nobel Peace Prize laureates with youth in a mentorship program centering on service learning and taking action for positive change; and the Western Massachusetts Network to End Homelessness, which serves homeless and at-risk individuals and families across the region. The Excellence Awards will be presented at MNN’s celebration of Nonprofit Awareness Day, a statewide holiday on June 9 that highlights the work of the nonprofit sector and raises awareness of causes throughout Massachusetts. “Nonprofit Awareness Day was created to recognize the impact and importance of the more than 33,000 nonprofits and almost a half-million nonprofit employees that provide invaluable services and are the cornerstones of our communities,” said Rick Jakious, CEO of the Massachusetts Nonprofit Network. “The Excellence Award finalists truly exemplify the most innovative, creative, and effective work being done throughout the Commonwealth.”
State Gets Reprieve from ACA Compliance
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal officials have granted Massachusetts an additional year to transition to full compliance with the Affordable Care Act, giving state health insurers until 2017 to replace their criteria for setting small-business premium rates with federal criteria. It was the latest federal move to delay implementation of the health law aimed at expanding health insurance nationally. Under pressure from small-business owners who feared federal criteria used to determine rates would increase their insurance premiums, state officials had asked Obama administration officials for more time and flexibility in adapting the national standards. Federal officials agreed last year to give Massachusetts a three-year timetable. Patrick, in a statement, thanked the White House “for affording us this flexibility that will help our small businesses more smoothly transition into compliance with the Affordable Care Act.”
Non-residential Building Inches Down in March
BOSTON — Non-residential construction spending inched down in March, making it the third consecutive month in which spending declined. Non-residential construction spending fell 0.1% on a monthly basis in March but has risen 4.4% on a yearly basis, according to a May 1 release by the U.S. Census Bureau. Spending for the month totaled $568.5 billion on a seasonally adjusted, annualized basis. Anirban Basu, chief economist for Associated Builders and Contractors, said the report isn’t too worrisome. “The factors that have produced recent economic and construction slowdowns appear to be temporary for the most part and not a sign of emerging economic turbulence. Given recent reports of increased private-sector hiring, construction activity should pick up meaningfully during the second quarter.” Overall, seven of 16 non-residential construction subsectors posted increases in spending in March: highways and streets, lodging, office, transportation, water supply, manufacturing, and religious. Nine categories saw declines in March: communications, education, commercial, public safety, sewage and waste disposal, amusement and recreation, healthcare, conservation and development, and power.
State Recognizes Programs for Energy and Environmental Education
BOSTON — The state office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) recently honored 27 programs — 22 schools and five nonprofits — at the 20th annual Secretary’s Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education. “We are proud to recognize the students, teachers, and nonprofits raising awareness about energy and environmental issues affecting Massachusetts and the planet,” said EEA Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. “The ideas, research, and knowledge being recognized today show the forward thinking of our youth and how ready they are for the challenges ahead.” Winners competed for $5,000 in awards, funded by the Massachusetts Environmental Trust with the intention to fund further environmental education initiatives at the schools. EEA solicited nominations in early 2014. Two of the honorees were from Western Mass: the Eco Club at Minnechaug Regional High School in Wilbraham (students in grades 9-12), and the Korpita Kids Green Team at Williamsburg Elementary School (grade 2 students and teacher Johanna Korpita).
STCC Student Wins Elevator-pitch Contest
SPRINGFIELD — Anthony Grandoit, a Springfield Technical Community College student took first place at a recent elevator-pitch competition, part of the annual awards ceremony and banquet for the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Initiative. Before a crowd of more than 450, Grandoit pitched the “Baby Keurig,” which he called a “faster, cleaner, convenient way to keep your baby fed.” Mike Mullen, a student at UMass Amherst, took second place for his business concept Kloudbook, a mobile app to keep track of contact information. Finally, Scott Abdow, a student at Greenfield Community College, took third place with Game On!, an event-based entertainment center for card and board gamers. Representatives from six area banks — Berkshire Bank, Country Bank for Savings, First Niagara Bank, PeoplesBank, United Bank, and Westfield Bank — once again sponsored the elevator-pitch competition and served as judges at the April 30 event at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House in Holyoke. An elevator pitch is an overview of an idea for a new business. The name reflects the fact that a pitch can be delivered in the time span of an elevator ride, roughly 90 seconds. The term is used when an entrepreneur pitches an idea to a venture capitalist to receive funding. The live event featured 15 students representing each of the 14 participating local colleges: American International College, Amherst College, Bay Path College, Elms College, Greenfield Community College, Hampshire College, Holyoke Community College, Mount Holyoke College, Smith College, Springfield College, Springfield Technical Community College, UMass Amherst, Western New England University, and Westfield State University. The first-, second-, and third-place winners received $1,000, $750, and $500 respectively. Each student received $100 for participating.
Hampden Bancorp Reports Solid First Quarter
SPRINGFIELD — Hampden Bancorp Inc., the holding company for Hampden Bank, recently announced the results of operations for the three and nine months ended March 31. Core net income increased by $1.1 million, or 49%, to $3.5 million for the nine months ended March 31, or fully diluted core earnings per share (EPS) of $0.65 as compared to $2.4 million, or fully diluted core EPS of $0.42, for the same period in 2013. For the nine months ended March 31, net income increased to $3.2 million, or fully diluted EPS of $0.60, as compared to $2.4 million, or fully diluted EPS of $0.42, for the same period in 2013. Core income excludes net non-core (non-recurring) charges in the nine months ended March 31, related to a proxy contest, and does not constitute a financial measure under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). This core net income, net income, and EPS represents the largest nine-month core net income, net income, and EPS performance by Hampden Bancorp since its inception. At the company’s 2013 annual shareholders’ meeting that took place on Nov. 5, Hampden Bancorp’s stockholders elected the company’s director nominees and voted against a stockholder’s proposal. The expenses associated with this proxy contest totaled $410,000 for the nine months ended March 31, 2014 and are included in non-interest expense under U.S. GAAP. There were no non-core charges during the nine months ended March 31, 2013. Net income increased $196,000, or 23.8%, to $1.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2014, or $0.19 per fully diluted share as compared to $825,000, or $0.15 per fully diluted share, for the same period in 2013. “We are pleased to deliver record basic earnings per share with an increase of 27% over the comparable quarter last year,” said Glenn Welch, president and CEO. “Year-to-date earnings per share have increased 42% over the same nine-month period in our 2013 fiscal year. Core earnings per share increased 53% for the same nine-month period. The company’s emphasis on commercial lending continues to pay dividends by providing strong loan and deposit growth. Despite the cost of our proxy contest, we have controlled expenses well, as demonstrated by the 3.7% decrease in non-interest expense quarter over quarter and 5.6% year to date. The company has and is negotiating with all major vendors to control costs. We continue to hold the line on increasing staff in an effort to remain efficient.” The company had an increase in net interest income of $1.0 million, or 7.4%, for the nine months ended March 31, 2014 compared to the nine months ended March 31, 2013. Interest and dividend income increased $757,000, or 4.2%, for the nine months ended March 31 compared to the same period last year, mainly due to an $812,000 increase in loan interest income due to an increase in average balances. For the nine months ended March 31, 2014, interest expense decreased by $284,000, or 6.8%, compared to the nine months ended March 31, 2013. This included a decrease in deposit interest expense of $526,000 due to a decrease in rates offset by an increase in the average balance of deposits. This decrease in deposit expense was partially offset by an increase in borrowing interest expense of $242,000 due to an increase in average balances offset by a decrease in rates. The net interest margin declined to 3.10% for the nine months ended March 31, compared to 3.15% for the nine months ended March 31, 2013. The provision for loan losses increased $75,000 for the nine months ended March 31, 2014 compared to the same period in 2013, primarily due to increased loan growth.
Florence Savings Bank Begins Construction on New Hadley Branch
FLORENCE — Florence Savings Bank, a mutually-owned savings bank serving the Pioneer Valley through nine branch locations, announced that construction has begun for a new branch location at 377 Russell St. in Hadley. When completed, this new, 3,150-square-foot branch will replace the bank’s current Hadley location at 335 Russell St. Present plans call for a fall 2014 completion date and opening. Officials from the bank, the town of Hadley, and the architectural/construction teams celebrated the official start of the construction at a May 5 groundbreaking ceremony. Wright Builders Inc. and HAI Architecture are the firms working on the design and construction of the new branch. Amenities and features of the new branch will include direct access from Route 9; a full-service teller line with state-of-the-art technology for quick cash handling; walk-up and drive-up ATMs with smart technology for easy depositing; three drive-up lanes, including a drive-up ATM; expanded private offices and a private conference room; an energy-efficient building to minimize the carbon footprint; and a comfortable waiting area with a coffee bar and free wi-fi. Toby Daniels, vice president and current branch manager of the Hadley branch, will continue in that role in the new location. Hadley customers will be able to use the existing branch until the new construction and relocation are completed later this year. “We are all very excited about this new location and upgrade,” said John Heaps, Jr., president and CEO of Florence Savings Bank. “Hadley is a very important part of our market, and we look forward to bringing this new, dynamic, state-of-the-art facility to the town.” People interested in following the progress of the construction can do so by visiting the bank’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/florencesavingsbank.
Holyoke Team Changes Name to Valley Blue Sox
HOLYOKE — Holyoke Blue Sox team officials announced recently that they have changed the name of the baseball team from Holyoke Blue Sox to Valley Blue Sox to more accurately reflect the market the team serves. “We want fans to know that we’re the Valley’s team,” said Blue Sox President Clark Eckhoff. “We’ve got dozens of great communities in our region, and by changing the name, we’re sending a more inclusive message: we want to be the Valley’s summer destination for fun, affordable, family entertainment. Added General Manager Hunter Golden, “I think one of the things that works to our advantage is that we play our games in Holyoke, so it allows us to reach a big audience, both north and south of the city.” Eckhoff bought the team last year and brought Golden on board soon after. The Blue Sox — which play their home games at Mackenzie Stadium, adjacent to Holyoke High School — will host this year’s New England Collegiate Baseball League All-Star Game on July 20.
The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.
CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Richard Della Giustina v. ABM Industries Inc.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing slip and fall: $26,404.54
Filed: 4/17/14
FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT
Adrienne Cremins v. Norfolk & Dedham Group
Allegation: Failure to respond to demand for arbitration: $95,000
Filed: 2/28/14
Bryan M. Westlake v. John P. Frangie, M.D.
Allegation: Medical malpractice: $28,761.24
Filed: 3/21/14
Marcia Vincent v. Mackin Construction Co. Inc. and ABC Corp.
Allegation: Negligence in snow and ice removal causing injury: $487,500
Filed: 2/25/14
HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Daniel Watterson, d/b/a DW Plumbing and Heating v. National Contractors, LLC, NAS Surety Group, ALDI Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment for plumbing work and materials: $110,101.63
Filed: 4/2/14
Kenia Davila, as personal representative of the estate of Kelia Davila v. Michael Malloy, William P. Walkowicz, and The Sportman’s Café Inc.
Allegation: Negligent service of alcohol causing wrongful death: $26,000
Filed: 4/3/14
Plasti-Clad Metal Products Inc. v. Renz America Co. Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $70,484.97
Filed: 4/2/14
Stack Metallurgical Services Inc. v. Thermal Dynamix Inc.
Allegation: Balance owed on previous judgment: $154,254.32
Filed: 3/31/14
Victor Shibley, Kathleen Sweeney, and Canterbury Construction Inc. v. Southbridge Savings Bank
Allegation: Violation of the Consumer Protection Act: $241,472
Filed: 4/4/14
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
BCP Holdings USA Inc. v. Muhammad M. Tajerha d/b/a Mikey’s Pizza and Restaurant
Allegation: Breach of contract: $4,962.14
Filed: 3/18/14
Liberty Mutual Fire Insurance Co. v. Manual Duchi Agialema d/b/a JD Construction:
Allegation: Non-payment on two policies: $19,351.28
Filed: 3/19/14
Plimpton & Hills Corp. v. Patricia A. Flaherty and Keith Cote d/b/a Keith Cote Plumbing and Heating
Allegation: Breach of contract for materials provided: $2,934.94
Filed: 3/24/14
WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
New Logic Business Loans Inc. v. Fresco Ristorante and Thomas Smart
Allegation: Breach of contract: $14,592.16
Filed: 3/18/14
The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.
CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Cory Bartson v. 2 Guys Auto Sales Inc. and Efrain Santana
Allegation: Defendant breached a contract by failing to reimburse the plaintiff for the purchase of a vehicle and one-half of the profits of the resale value of the vehicle: $9,950
Filed: 3/25/14
HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Action Air Inc. v. Reed McNaughton d/b/a Dr. Energy Saver, Karen M. Brown, and William J. Bates
Allegation: Failure to pay under the terms of a construction agreement: $10,000
Filed: 3/21/14
Liberty Mutual Fire Insurance Co. v. Christopher R. Porter Builders Inc.
Allegation: Unpaid workers’ compensation policy: $34,719.20
Filed: 3/19/14
Matthew Brackman v. Reliant Medical Group Inc.
Allegation: Breach of contract: $100,000
Filed: 3/14/14
Robin Murphy v. Hu Ke Lau Inc. and Edison L. Lee
Allegation: Failure to pay wages: $75,000
Filed: 3/17/14
Teddy Bear Pools Inc. and Theodore Hebert v. Eastern States Exposition and Eugene Cassidy, as president of Eastern States
Allegation: Injunctive relief for civil-rights violation and breach of contract: $300,000
Filed: 3/31/14
HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Easthampton Savings Bank v. Sun Technical Services Inc. and Robert W. Humphreys
Allegation: Breach of contract: $91,104.75
Filed: 3/10/14
Roger J. Belanger v. Stiebel Properties
Allegation: Plaintiff struck and injured by snow falling from a roof: $82,569.22
Filed: 2/4/14
HOLYOKE DISTRICT COURT
Open & Shut d/b/a Raynor Door Sales v. Runnals & Sons Construction Services Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of construction supplies and services rendered: $22,014.28
Filed: 3/4/14
NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
John W. Bresnahan v. General Mills Inc.
Allegation: Negligence in manufacturing of Wheaties Fuel causing injury when plaintiff tried to ingest: $24,000
Filed: 2/27/14
Judith Dickson v. Hampshire Village Condo Assoc.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing slip and fall: $24,599.99
Filed: 2/14/14
Pave, Tile, and Stone Inc. v. Nonotuck Mills, LLC
Allegation: Breach of contract and failure to repair or remediate contamination: $25,000
Filed: 2/26/14
PALMER DISTRICT COURT
Tracy Gousy and Lori Hull v. O.C. White Co.
Allegation: Non-payment of vacation pay upon separation from company: $3,600
Filed: 4/10/14
HIBU Inc. f/k/a Yellowbook Inc. v. James B. Lynch d/b/a J&B Landscape Construction
Allegation: Monies due for breach of contract, monies loaned, advertising, and services rendered: $11,394.96
Filed: 3/24/14
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Jacqueline H. Glasco v. F.P.S. Inc. and Burger King Corp.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing slip and fall: $4,166.55
Filed: 2/27/14
Joan Wollmershauser v. Mercy Hospital
Allegation: Automated door struck plaintiff in the face causing injury: $14,651.37
Filed: 2/4/14
WESTFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Logic Business Loans Inc. v. Smart Restaurant Inc. d/b/a Fresco Ristorante and Thomas Smart
Allegation: Breach of contract: $14,592.16
Filed: 3/18/14
Ware Looks to Spark Economic Growth
By KEVIN FLANDERS
Roc Goudreau, one of the developers of Workshop13, believes the renovated church will become a cultural hub for Ware.
But two town residents, Roc Goudreau and his friend, Chris DiMarzio, looked past the blight and the daunting challenge of rehabbing the 117-year-old former Methodist Church and saw something others didn’t: opportunity.
What they’ve created at that address is called Workshop13, a bustling cultural-arts and community center that has become not only a major resource, but also a source of inspiration for a town looking for a spark — or several sparks — in its downtown, and is starting to find them.
Indeed, the renovation of the Workshop13 building is just one example of a minor wave of development that has swept through town in recent years, said Town Manager Stuart Beckley.
“Ware can be a hub of activity and services for regional residents,” he told BusinessWest. “The more activity and the better the quality of activity and service, the more growth that will follow. Ware is working to be ready for that increase.”
Hoping to open up a new art school, Goudreau and DiMarzio purchased the 11,000-square-foot former church building in December 2012. After several months of renovations, including the installation of a new roof and chimney, as well as the additions of new doors, flooring, shelves, and lighting, Workshop13 opened in October 2013.
“I’m really glad we were able to save the building,” said Goudreau, who plans to renovate the exterior of the building next year. “It was a real mess when we first bought it, but we always said the place has good bones and structure.”
That phrase could be applied to the community’s downtown as a whole, and officials are looking to create momentum for more development there.
The Ware Business and Civic Assoc. (WBCA) has partnered with town officials to conduct a series of workshops to help gain insight into best practices for a planned revitalization of Ware’s downtown section. Funded by town grant monies, the workshops will be led by four people from throughout Massachusetts with experience in various revitalization strategies. Bill Braman, chairman of the WBCA, is excited about the ideas these individuals will bring to the table.
“They all have different backgrounds and approaches and experiences when it comes to revitalization, and we want to look into employing some of their strategies in Ware,” he said. “There have been a lot of great recent developments downtown, with a new restaurant being constructed a few years ago and Workshop13 opening. Now we’re looking to come together as a community in a coordinated effort to continue revitalizing that area.”
For this, the latest installment of its Community Spotlight series, BusinessWest puts the focus on Ware and the many signs of progress — and hope — in this Quaboag-region community.
Major Steps Forward
The progress at Workshop13 just scratches the surface of recent developments in Ware. A new Cumberland Farms convenience store will soon be constructed on Route 32, a project that has received site-plan approval from the Planning Board. The proposal will now be reviewed by the Zoning Board of Appeals, and representatives from Cumberland Farms hope to be open for business as early as the fall, said Karen Cullen, Ware’s director of Planning and Community Development.
Meanwhile, Seaboard Solar, of Danbury, Conn., received approval last year from the Planning Board to install a solar array on Gilbertville Road, which will be adjacent to a larger array the company is building in West Brookfield. Cullen said Seaboard Solar has submitted a building permit and is planning to get construction underway soon.
From a recreational perspective, Ware is taking major steps with the planned construction of a new section of its Rail Trail within the next 18 months. Selectman John Carroll said recently awarded grant monies from the Recreational Trails Program, as well as volunteer contributions, will allow for the construction of two new bridges and other work.
“Once this new section is finished, people will be able to go from Wal-Mart all the way down to Robbins Road,” covering a significant stretch of Route 32 in town, he said.
The new trail section and others expected to follow it will ultimately connect Ware to several other towns through larger regional trails — both existing and proposed — which would attract more people to the town and thereby generate increased revenue for businesses. “It is important to be connected to the larger region,” Beckley said.
But the transformation of 13 Church St. has been the visible and potentially impactful development in recent months.
“The total rehabilitation they did of the building was wonderful, a very exciting project in our town,” Carroll said. “They took a building that would have been demolished and completely renovated it. Whenever something like that happens, it’s big for the town.”
Cullen agreed. “They put a lot of money and work into it, preserving most of the original features of the building, and now it is a thriving arts center,” she said.
Workshop13 hosts several youth art programs and camps each week, including a spring vacation camp that introduced several youngsters to painting during their break from school. With an accomplished staff of artists, Goudreau is hoping to expand membership in the coming months.
“We have really great instructors here; all of them are professional artists, and right now we’re just looking to get the word out about this place so residents know about what we have to offer,” he said. “Some people who come in didn’t even know we were here.”
Another goal for Goudreau and his staff is to maximize the use of the property, which was built in 1897 and also served for a short time as a senior center. The building boasts stained-glass windows and expansive rooms, and Goudreau is contemplating adding a performance or dance component to his business. The upper rooms, he said, are also perfect for an exercise studio, and renting sections of the building is another viable option. Currently, one of the second-floor rooms serves as a makeshift art museum displaying creations of Workshop13 instructors.
“I really hope that one day this building will be a cultural hub for the town,” he said.
Winds of Change
Karen Cullen says there are a number of development projects underway or on the drawing board in Ware.
“Right now we’re in a process of due diligence to move toward a definitive decision,” said Ben Craft, Baystate Health’s director of Public Affairs. “We’re anticipating a decision by the summer, but Baystate Mary Lane Hospital will continue to operate normally and remain a key part of our strategy moving forward. It’s important that we maintain a strong presence in Ware.”
If the agreement is approved, Beckley said it could lead to opportunities for growth in town. Baystate Health operates several medical facilities in the region, including Baystate Medical Center in Springfield and Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield.
The Quaboag Valley Business Assistance Corp., based in Ware, has also reported major developments of late. Officials with the QVBAC recently learned the corporation has been certified as a ‘community development finance institution’ by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund.
“This certification will increase our access to financial and technical assistance from the CDFI fund and enhance our ability to raise funds from other donors,” said Sheila Cuddy, executive director of the QVBAC. “These funds support our work to increase economic opportunity for the 15 communities in our region.”
The QVBAC, a nonprofit organization, provides loans to small businesses that are not eligible for traditional bank financing.
Meanwhile, officials expressed hope that the planned workshops downtown will spark more development opportunities there.
In addition to exposing residents, town officials, and business owners to specific strategies, the workshops will also serve as a promotional mechanism for the revitalization plans, which will tie into the town’s ongoing formation of a master plan.
“This will create a vehicle to bring various businesses, large and small, together to focus on our priorities,” Braman added. “We’re hoping to get participation from throughout the community as we move forward to determine the best approaches for revitalization.”
At the conclusion of the workshops, Beckley said the town will assist Ware Business and Civic Assoc. members with deciding how they wish to move forward.
Ware It’s At
Overall, town officials are encouraged by the growth that has taken place in recent years, in addition to developments that still may occur.
Even in a tepid economy that has caused many communities to stagnate in terms of development, Ware residents and business owners have found a way to effect positive change and gain momentum.
“All of these activities show the commitment of town and business leaders to growth,” Beckley said, “both residential and commercial.”
Ware at a glance
Year Incorporated: 1775
Population: 9,872 (2010); 9,707 (2000)
Area: 40.0 square miles
County: Hampshire
Residential Tax Rate: 18.31
Commercial Tax Rate: 18.31
Median Household Income: $36,875
Family Household Income: $45,505
Type of Government: Open town meeting
Largest Employers: Baystate Mary Lane Hospital, Wal-Mart, Big Y, Country Bank, Kanzaki Specialty Papers, Town of Ware
* Latest information available
The following building permits were issued during the month of April 2014.
AMHERST
Echo Hill Townhouse Condominium
Webster Court
$14,000 — Strip and re-roof
CHICOPEE
Charter Communications
354 Sheridan St.
$168,000 — Renovations for new offices
City of Chicopee Parks and Recreation
Abbey Memorial Park
$73,000 — Baseball dugouts
HOLYOKE
Weld Partners
95 Chestnut St.
$3,500,000 — Convert Mara Hall into 14 planned residential units; building A
LUDLOW
AMP Real Estate Group
483 Chapin St.
$30,000 — Addition and alterations
NORTHAMPTON
Better Homes Properties, LLC
34 New South St.
$51,000 — Exterior renovations building A
Better Homes Properties, LLC
34 New South St.
$108,000 — Exterior renovations building B
Continental Cablevision
790 Florence Road
$143,000 — Add antennas and equipment building
Packaging Corp of America
525 Mt. Tom Road
$329,000 — Install TPO roof system
Paradise Realty Partners, LLC
766 North King St.
$190,000 — Convert two units on the first floor to a doctor’s office
SOUTH HADLEY
Big Y
44 Willimansett St.
$179,000 — Install new roof
Center for Redevelopment Commission
29 College St.
$10,000 — Renovations
Hampden Christian Academy
36 Hadley St.
$83,000 — Install new roof
SOUTHWICK
Allegrone Construction
608 College Highway
$50,000 — Commercial alterations
SPRINGFIELD
Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints
376 Maple St.
$21,000 — Water damage repairs
Mass Mutual
1500 Main St.
$47,000 — Interior renovations
PVTA
2808 Main St.
$897,000 — Removal and reinstallation of the bus wash system
WESTFIELD
CPL, LLC
37 Feeding Hills Road
$374,000 — Interior renovations
Kenia Associates, LLC
65 Springfield St.
$214,000 — Finish existing office space
Reed Hall Holding, LLC
29 School St.
$150,000 — Interior renovations
Whitetail Realty, LLP
97 Servistar Industrial Way
$8,000 — Convert two offices to one
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Five Below
935 Riverdale St.
$175,000 — Storefront alterations for change of use and tenant fit out
New Hampshire Dept. of Agriculture, Markets, and Food
1305 Memorial Dr.
$94,000 — New roof
The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
ASHFIELD
1903 Conway Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Yvonne Bourdillon
Seller: David P. Thibault
Date: 03/24/14
190 Creamery Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Helena C. McCracken
Seller: Yvonne Bourdillon
Date: 03/24/14
BERNARDSTON
40 Gill Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Richard J. Couture
Seller: Jeffrey S. Pratt
Date: 04/01/14
34 Hillcrest Dr.
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Kayla M. Breor
Seller: Judith Webb
Date: 03/25/14
COLRAIN
98 New County Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $261,000
Buyer: Jonathan D. Byerly
Seller: David Tasgal
Date: 04/03/14
CONWAY
111 Williamsburg Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $184,000
Buyer: Melanie Burt
Seller: Collin J. Burt
Date: 03/31/14
DEERFIELD
72 Boynton Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Frank P. Marchand
Seller: Richard Giusto
Date: 03/28/14
387 Greenfield Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Frank Ingemi
Seller: Childs, Janet A., (Estate)
Date: 03/31/14
31 Thayer St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Donna L. Blackney
Seller: William J. Gilman
Date: 03/31/14
ERVING
11 Briggs St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $142,500
Buyer: Shannon M. Herzig
Seller: Joel L. Thurber
Date: 03/28/14
GREENFIELD
687 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $166,900
Buyer: Beneficial MA Inc.
Seller: Lynn T. Parker
Date: 03/28/14
255 Colrain Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $147,500
Buyer: William C. Phelps
Seller: Steven P. Myers
Date: 03/26/14
3 Cooke St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Donald D. Renfrew
Seller: Alma D. Mankowsky
Date: 04/01/14
280 Country Club Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Blackmore
Seller: RCR Holdings LLC
Date: 03/31/14
16 Duren Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Ethan M. Wilkins
Date: 03/31/14
12 Freeman Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Robert A. Emond
Date: 03/24/14
40 Lunt Dr.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Michael S. Coulombe
Seller: Karin Browning
Date: 03/28/14
7 Raingley Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $158,000
Buyer: Nancy D. Krull
Seller: Andrea S. Martin
Date: 04/03/14
MONTAGUE
100 3rd St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Harlan G. Harvey
Seller: Down To Earth Property Management
Date: 03/28/14
59 Dell St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Heather Sheperd
Seller: Green, Mildred R., (Estate)
Date: 03/26/14
NEW SALEM
50 Blackinton Road
New Salem, MA 01364
Amount: $221,500
Buyer: Viera Lorencova
Seller: Julie A. Caouette
Date: 03/24/14
255 West St.
New Salem, MA 01355
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Michael L. Sorenson
Seller: Ethan R. Forbes
Date: 03/28/14
NORTHFIELD
92 Main St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Eugene Rice
Seller: FHLM
Date: 03/31/14
6 Woodruff Way
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $128,900
Buyer: Matthew J. Lucier
Seller: Huber, Robert L., (Estate)
Date: 04/04/14
ORANGE
53 Fairman Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $125,214
Buyer: Wells Fargo Bank
Seller: Randy A. Parker
Date: 03/28/14
SHELBURNE
20 Bardwells Ferry Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Ronald M. Szpila
Seller: Lisa A. Deangelis
Date: 03/24/14
247 Main St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Kyle Canepari
Seller: 247-251 Main LLC
Date: 03/31/14
SUNDERLAND
62 Claybrook Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $320,000
Seller: Herbert J. Sinofsky
Date: 03/28/14
256 Plumtree Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Sarah M. Waskiewicz
Seller: Yestramski, Edith, (Estate)
Date: 03/31/14
HAMPDEN COUNTY
AGAWAM
14 Bradford Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $197,000
Buyer: Matthew M. Morrissey
Seller: Dawn M. Gronda
Date: 03/24/14
32 Federal St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Martin M. Downey
Seller: Frederick A. Harpin
Date: 03/28/14
14 Kosciusko Ave.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $219,000
Buyer: Philip J. McKenzie
Seller: Paul A. Ciborowski
Date: 03/25/14
39 Liberty St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $146,250
Buyer: William P. Whitman
Seller: Leo L. Gaulin
Date: 03/31/14
180 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Thomas E. Hoyle
Seller: Michael D. Berry
Date: 04/02/14
15 Walter Way
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $359,900
Buyer: Janis R. Oles
Seller: John H. Houle
Date: 03/31/14
BRIMFIELD
69 Cubles Dr.
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: William Sweeney
Seller: Eleanor Snelgrove
Date: 03/28/14
64 Prospect Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $321,000
Buyer: Karri E. Galonek
Seller: James G. Gerrish
Date: 04/01/14
CHICOPEE
44 Alvord Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Guadalupe M. Friedson
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank
Date: 03/24/14
117 Caddyshack Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Jendrysik
Seller: Carol A. Zimmermann
Date: 03/31/14
144 East St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Jose G. Vicente
Seller: Lois Delisle
Date: 03/24/14
104 Edgewood Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Keith R. Fontaine
Seller: Edward S. West
Date: 03/31/14
47 Graham Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Melissa M. Spears
Seller: Craig M. Dube
Date: 03/28/14
96 Hilton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Ryan Fitzemeyer
Seller: James D. Pollard
Date: 03/31/14
35 Lafond Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $228,500
Buyer: Donna M. Charette
Seller: Joseph A. Tetrault
Date: 03/28/14
27 Martha St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $159,900
Buyer: Francis J. Kempton
Seller: Jason P. Wilkinson
Date: 03/31/14
930 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $182,500
Buyer: Mariya Borisik
Seller: Quynh Dao
Date: 03/31/14
145 Nonotuck Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: David M. Aucoin
Seller: Diamondback Properties
Date: 04/02/14
28 Spence St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Christina M. Santinello
Seller: Gary J. Shea
Date: 03/31/14
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $117,500
Buyer: Stephen G. Young
Seller: Jablonski, Stella M., (Estate)
Date: 04/04/14
EAST LONGMEADOW
160 Canterbury Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $532,000
Buyer: Manohar Shenoy
Seller: Dan Roulier & Assocs. Inc.
Date: 03/26/14
15 Dale St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $257,500
Buyer: Francesco A. Carrano
Seller: Countrywide Home Loan Inc.
Date: 03/28/14
103 Gates Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Adam J. Dubois
Seller: Patrick M. Oshei
Date: 03/27/14
21 Hillside Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Lyons
Seller: Dineen, Dorothy M., (Estate)
Date: 03/31/14
10 Holland Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $189,000
Buyer: Michelle N. Rostek
Seller: Mario A. Cardinale
Date: 04/04/14
217 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Ian T. Morrissey
Seller: Amy C. Distefano
Date: 03/27/14
64 Pleasant St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Tomroc Holdings LLC
Seller: FNMA
Date: 03/26/14
36 Rogers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $154,850
Buyer: Lewis J. Emma
Seller: Thomas W. Daly
Date: 03/27/14
144 Stonehill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Mary A. O’Connor
Seller: Douglas A. Yandow
Date: 04/02/14
HAMPDEN
36 Commercial Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $430,312
Buyer: Stuart A. Fearn
Seller: Katherine J. Hickson
Date: 04/02/14
211 South Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Colleen E. Foerster
Seller: Sherry Himmelstein
Date: 04/02/14
Stafford Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Geoffrey M. Rockwell
Seller: Michael A. Cimmino
Date: 04/01/14
HOLLAND
4 Forest Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Meghan E. Thompson
Seller: Nicholas Truax
Date: 03/24/14
HOLYOKE
79 Brookline Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Jessica L. Montagna
Seller: Christopher J. Britton
Date: 03/24/14
688 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Dennis Lovely
Seller: Christopher A. Prost
Date: 03/26/14
12 Liberty St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Premier Source Credit Union
Seller: James M. Brunelle
Date: 03/27/14
455 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $189,990
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Nicolle L. Sugrue
Date: 04/04/14
20 Princeton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Kelly J. Hellstein
Seller: Nellie A. Taylor-Donohue
Date: 03/24/14
87 Sheehan Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: James L. Richard
Seller: Richard M. Smith
Date: 03/28/14
LONGMEADOW
168 Colony Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Patrick A. Streck
Seller: Catherine Novak
Date: 03/25/14
182 Farmington Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,028,500
Buyer: Tyson M. Streeter
Seller: Richard P. Anderson
Date: 03/31/14
20 Hillcrest Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $434,500
Buyer: Claus Hesselberg-Thomsen
Seller: Angela L. Anderson
Date: 03/28/14
1560 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $246,000
Buyer: Steven M. Haddad
Seller: James Haddad
Date: 03/24/14
86 Oakwood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Penquin Realty Inc.
Seller: Elizabeth M. Flink
Date: 03/28/14
164 Pinewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Thomas McLaughlin
Seller: Hao M. Wu
Date: 04/03/14
LUDLOW
271 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $385,000
Seller: Andrew Boyea
Date: 03/27/14
677 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Jack C. Mendes
Seller: Carlos Branco
Date: 03/28/14
70 Kirkland Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $150,878
Buyer: FHLM
Seller: Ilidio F. Pinto
Date: 03/25/14
258 Howard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Casey L. Mendrala
Seller: Paul M. Miele
Date: 03/31/14
13 Park Terrace
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $220,043
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Scott E. Holbrook
Date: 04/04/14
81 Pondview Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Nuno M. Pereira
Seller: Nicholas H. Gallup
Date: 04/04/14
35 Scott St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: James E. Parker
Seller: Stephen M. Charpentier
Date: 03/31/14
30 Southwood Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Paulo L. Roxo
Seller: Tuoc Pham
Date: 03/26/14
161 Stivens Terrace
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Jettie C. McCollough
Seller: Edward F. Burgess
Date: 04/01/14
38 West Akard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: James Lovern
Seller: Kim M. Miarecki
Date: 04/01/14
163 Waverly Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Juan Rivera
Seller: Ronald R. Larocque
Date: 04/04/14
MONSON
12 Alden Thrasher Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: John H. Scheuermann
Seller: Clifford J. Farquhar
Date: 03/26/14
17 Beebe Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Chase J. Cheverie
Seller: Cadieux, Roberta A., (Estate)
Date: 03/28/14
11 Crest Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Amy Otto
Seller: Deborah A. Tighe
Date: 03/26/14
50 Ely Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: John P. Willemain
Seller: Lisa M. Walters
Date: 03/27/14
275 Lower Hampden Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Michael J. Stacy
Seller: Grant W. Hamilton
Date: 03/31/14
66 Stafford Hollow Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Michael A. Reid
Seller: Randy W. Graham
Date: 04/04/14
PALMER
86 Mason St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Michael Gralinski
Seller: Yvan O. Lachance
Date: 04/01/14
N/A
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $159,500
Buyer: Margaret M. Superneau
Seller: Frederick J. Tenczar
Date: 03/28/14
Riverview Parkway
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Rhodes
Seller: Deborah A. Haley
Date: 03/27/14
RUSSELL
70 Old Westfield Road
Russell, MA 01034
Amount: $163,900
Buyer: Melissa A. Milanczuk
Seller: Dennis C. Hugue
Date: 03/28/14
SPRINGFIELD
818 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Chandra Bhattarai
Seller: D. B. Properties LLC
Date: 03/31/14
47 Bither St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Jordan Gilliam
Seller: Matthew S. Shejen
Date: 03/28/14
25 Calhoun St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
625 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $6,526,339
Buyer: 625 Carew Street LLC
Seller: Harrison Properties LLC
Date: 03/26/14
1508 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $192,800
Buyer: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Seller: Frank E. Schissel
Date: 04/03/14
24 Carew Terrace
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Yerica Santiago
Seller: Kastrinakis, Dimitra, (Estate)
Date: 03/31/14
244 Centre St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: WJSM Management Co. LLC
Seller: Salgo LLC
Date: 03/31/14
250 Centre St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: WJSM Management Co. LLC
Seller: Salgo LLC
Date: 03/31/14
274 Cooper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Angelina Barbarisi
Seller: Kathleen A. Stratton
Date: 03/26/14
81 Crestmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Jonathan A. Letendre
Seller: RBS Citizens NA
Date: 03/25/14
208 Davis St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Brenda E. Reyes
Seller: Melissa A. Milanczuk
Date: 03/28/14
459 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Karaaslan Realty LLC
Seller: S. C. S. Realty Corp. Inc.
Date: 04/01/14
215 Dorset St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: Tanisha Cabezudo
Seller: Steven F. Thorn
Date: 04/01/14
87 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
30 Foster St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
50 Fox Woods Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $198,370
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Jacqueline G. McGregor
Date: 04/04/14
30 Georgetown St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Matthew D. Adams
Seller: Amanda L. Desmith
Date: 03/24/14
396 Grayson Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $154,900
Buyer: Andrew M. Croteau
Date: 03/28/14
34 Grove St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
33 Higgins St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Stephen A. Gasco
Seller: Zarchariah Viereck
Date: 03/27/14
9 Massasoit Place
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $122,500
Buyer: Angel M. Santiago
Seller: Webster Saintilma
Date: 04/03/14
33 Morningside Park
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $139,175
Buyer: Jose F. Umana
Seller: Annette R. Gallagher
Date: 04/01/14
59 Palmer Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
20 Pequot St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
32 Rathbun St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Mike Alkabani
Seller: Wilfred L. Trudeau
Date: 03/31/14
55 Riverview Terrace
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $337,500
Buyer: Lewis Lamson
Seller: Howard I. Kalodner
Date: 03/27/14
23 Rosedale Ave.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $124,000
Buyer: Frank V. Winn
Seller: Jeffrey D. Mislak
Date: 04/03/14
281 State St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: 281 State Street TR
Seller: UB Properties LLC
Date: 03/28/14
42 Sycamore St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
45 Tyrone St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $159,608
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Hector A. Pagan
Date: 04/02/14
29 Wendell Place
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Eda Ema LLC
Seller: International Society Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
37 Whitmore Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $156,000
Buyer: Eric S. Mattos
Seller: Francisco K. Serrano
Date: 03/28/14
124 Wilber St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $120,500
Buyer: Sandra V. Figueroa
Seller: Bryan R. Francis
Date: 04/04/14
186 Wildwood Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $194,000
Buyer: Justin L. Kent
Seller: Cathleen M. Dinnie
Date: 04/01/14
257 Winton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Jake P. Trombley
Seller: Robert L. Foskitt
Date: 03/31/14
930 Worthington St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Adexi Cruz
Seller: Samuel R. Castellano
Date: 04/04/14
SOUTHWICK
86 Davis Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $248,500
Buyer: Sean A. Barrett
Seller: Arthur G. Chevalier
Date: 03/28/14
34 Grove St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $424,900
Buyer: Carla L. Hoffman
Seller: Richard S. Harty
Date: 04/01/14
175 South Loomis St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $156,000
Buyer: Eugene J. Whitehead
Seller: Raymond W. Clark
Date: 04/02/14
WALES
19 Holland Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Lee C. Chick
Seller: Charles L. Chick
Date: 04/01/14
WESTFIELD
78 Beveridge Blvd.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Taryn R. Mazejka
Seller: John A. Callini
Date: 03/31/14
106 Elm St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Norwich Properties LLC
Seller: Joseph J. Mantegna
Date: 04/02/14
19 Malone Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $264,338
Buyer: Citimortgage Inc.
Seller: Georgi E. Corriveau
Date: 03/27/14
152 Montgomery St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $171,900
Buyer: Joseph E. Cabana
Seller: Jacob W. Golen
Date: 03/28/14
417 North Elm St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Synium LLC
Seller: Atwood Drug Inc.
Date: 04/01/14
427 North Elm St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Synium LLC
Seller: Atwood Drug Inc.
Date: 04/01/14
Northwest Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Raymond J. Anton
Seller: John P. Pitoniak
Date: 04/04/14
11 Paper St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Andrew E. Goyette
Seller: Joseph W. Tremblay
Date: 03/25/14
954 Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $209,000
Buyer: Alex Bublik
Seller: Patricia M. Hebert
Date: 04/04/14
1230 Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $209,600
Buyer: Mogalkrupa LLC
Seller: Harnish Patel
Date: 03/31/14
19 Waterford Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Joseph M. Manfredi
Seller: Christina M. Moreau
Date: 04/04/14
WILBRAHAM
2810 Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: F. L. Roberts & Co. Inc.
Seller: Sandri Realty Inc.
Date: 04/02/14
14 Brainard Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $147,050
Buyer: MHFA
Seller: Caroline A. Boland
Date: 03/26/14
8 Falcon Heights
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: James R. Blume
Seller: Jennifer Biseinere
Date: 03/31/14
1008 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $281,500
Buyer: Alison Askew
Seller: Thomas J. Hinks
Date: 03/31/14
76 Old Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Daniel P. Fernandes
Seller: Ryan Askew
Date: 03/31/14
799 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: John Lewis
Seller: Patrick J. Burns
Date: 03/27/14
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Austin Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Hubert R. Scott
Seller: West Meadow Homes Inc.
Date: 04/04/14
72 Bridle Path Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Marie A. Devlin
Seller: Saengthavy Phommachanh
Date: 03/27/14
33 Brookline Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Jennifer L. Negron
Seller: John Chernisky
Date: 03/28/14
27 Dorwin Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Bryan Miles
Seller: Michael R. Grandfield
Date: 03/24/14
367 Gooseberry Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $254,900
Buyer: Victoria A. Dellasperanza
Seller: Sharon E. Turner
Date: 04/04/14
4 Johnson St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $184,000
Buyer: Eric A. Hernandez
Seller: Enith Mendez
226 Morton St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $192,000
Buyer: Zaid Tuffaha
Seller: Richard C. Gallup
Date: 03/26/14
62 Warren St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Lindsey E. Bridge
Seller: David J. Caron
Date: 03/31/14
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
AMHERST
115 Blue Hills Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $332,500
Buyer: Mark J. Whipple
Seller: Wendy Sibbison
Date: 03/28/14
109 Cherry Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Yang Zhang
Seller: David J. Geoffroy
Date: 04/01/14
263 Grantwood Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Isaac Chow
Seller: FNMA
Date: 03/28/14
365 Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Adam J. Ortiz
Seller: Kathy M. Holle
Date: 04/03/14
38 Nutting Ave.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $975,000
Buyer: PI Kappa PHI Properties
Seller: Alph Chi Omega National Housing
Date: 03/31/14
4 Stagecoach Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Katharine J. Waggoner
Seller: Thomas D. Snowman
Date: 03/31/14
24 Whippletree Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $377,500
Buyer: Haiping Ke
Seller: David K. Lee
Date: 03/28/14
BELCHERTOWN
5 Brandywine Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Christopher J. McGurk
Seller: Kennedy H. Clark
Date: 03/28/14
31 Jabish St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $237,500
Buyer: Adam D. Daniell
Seller: Ketchen FT
Date: 03/27/14
Munsell St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Marcel A. Nines
Seller: Peter S. Galuszka
Date: 03/27/14
26 North Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Christopher R. Reynolds
Seller: Richard F. Greene
Date: 04/02/14
33 Poole Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Buyer: David F. Habicht
Seller: Patrick R. Taylor
Date: 04/01/14
144 Shea Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $294,900
Buyer: Jennifer A. Applegate
Seller: Kelly Hayward
Date: 03/31/14
130 Ware Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Scott M. Bonafini
Seller: Alan R. Barthelette
Date: 03/25/14
CUMMINGTON
21 West Main St.
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Mariam Massaro
Seller: Carleen M. Madigan
Date: 03/28/14
EASTHAMPTON
18 Button Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $269,920
Buyer: Peter A. Sokolwski
Seller: EH Homeownership LLC
Date: 03/31/14
13 Exeter St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $194,900
Buyer: New City Properties LLC
Seller: Provident Funding Assocs. LP
Date: 03/31/14
243 Hendrick St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $203,000
Buyer: Timothy S. Rogers
Seller: Parsons, Dora E., (Estate)
Date: 03/31/14
7 Kimberly Lane
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Kevin T. McGrath
Seller: Janson T. Robare
Date: 03/31/14
15 Laurel Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Jason A. Robare
Seller: Thomas M. Cleary
Date: 03/31/14
25 Sandra Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $188,500
Buyer: Brendan K. McKinney
Seller: Ronald L. Sedergren
Date: 03/31/14
21 Taft Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $259,900
Buyer: Amy V. Marsters
Seller: Gregory T. Sears
Date: 03/28/14
GOSHEN
104 Ball Road
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: PDV Inc.
Seller: Steven Weiss
Date: 04/04/14
GRANBY
116 Munsing Ridge
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $322,500
Buyer: Daniel J. Randall
Seller: Peter J. Gaj
Date: 03/28/14
128 Pleasant St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Gregory T. Sears
Seller: Norman W. Ingham
Date: 03/28/14
HADLEY
85 Chmura Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Commonwealth Of Massachusetts
Seller: Helen S. Waskiewicz
Date: 03/25/14
451 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Hampshire Mosque Inc.
Seller: Michael L. Zabre
Date: 04/02/14
HATFIELD
63 King St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Bonney A. Brown
Seller: Patricia A. Bell
Date: 03/28/14
MIDDLEFIELD
69 Clark Wright Road
Middlefield, MA 01243
Amount: $134,251
Buyer: Homesales Inc.
Seller: David Hrassler
Date: 03/31/14
NORTHAMPTON
13 Dana St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Alexander Simom
Seller: Judith V. Champagne
Date: 04/03/14
56 Elizabeth St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $350,002
Buyer: Ann E. Scagel
Seller: John G. Graiff
Date: 03/28/14
123 Moser St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Kent Pecoy & Sons Construction
Seller: Hospital Hill Dev LLC
81 Henshaw Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Joshua Mintz
Seller: Yechiael E. Lander
Date: 04/02/14
69 Overlook Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Nellie A. Taylor
Seller: Erik S. Matewski
Date: 03/24/14
236 Pleasant St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: Crossover Properties LLC
Seller: Linda F. Ronen
Date: 03/31/14
SOUTH HADLEY
246 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $435,150
Buyer: Matthew W. Komer
Seller: H. N. Wohlers
Date: 04/04/14
21 High St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Richard Cournoyer
Seller: John J. Cournoyer
Date: 04/03/14
7 Mary Lyon Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $319,000
Buyer: Cheryl Lee
Seller: Thomas E. Kelly
Date: 03/28/14
110 Mosier St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Robert L. Scribner
Seller: Bank New York
Date: 04/01/14
53 Searle Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Aimee R. Kelly
Seller: Andrew G. Holloway
Date: 03/31/14
10 Tigger Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $468,000
Buyer: Michael F. Werenski
Seller: David W. Clausnitzer
Date: 03/26/14
SOUTHAMPTON
98 Pequot Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Sergey Gokhgalter
Seller: William A. West
Date: 03/24/14
4 Sara Lane
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $412,080
Buyer: Daniel A. Erwin
Seller: David Garstka Builders LLC
Date: 03/26/14
WARE
44 Cummings Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $156,000
Buyer: Kondaur Capital Corp.
Seller: Steven K. Gryszowka
Date: 03/27/14
211 Greenwich Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $158,500
Buyer: Donald M. Smith
Seller: Susan J. Hanewich
Date: 03/25/14
28 North St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Vision Investment Rental Properties
Seller: Joel J. Harder
Date: 04/01/14
9 Sczygiel Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Kimberly A. Okane
Seller: John J. Giard
Date: 03/28/14
173 West St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Harminder Dhillon
Seller: Herbert I. Cohen
Date: 04/04/14
WILLIAMSBURG
16 Kingsley Ave.
Williamsburg, MA 01060
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Roy D. Farnham
Seller: Childs, Bernice A., (Estate)
Date: 03/28/14
19 South Main St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $241,350
Buyer: Anne H. Golob
Seller: Esther J. Williams
Date: 04/04/14
MGM Asks Commission to Delay Awarding License
SPRINGFIELD — MGM Springfield President Michael Mathis asked the Massachusetts Gaming Commission to declare MGM the winner of a casino license for its $800 million project in Springfield’s South End by its planned decision date of May 30, but to delay the formal award until a ballot question seeking repeal of the casino bill is decided. Without that flexibility, he noted, MGM could be at risk for some $200 million in costs while the ballot issue is resolved. “No corporation should subject itself to that risk — including MGM Springfield,” he wrote to commission Chairman Stephen Crosby. “MGM is offering, under such a bifurcated process, to waive our statutory right to 30 days to make payment of our various licensing fees … and instead to make such payment within five business days of a formal award. We recognize the economic and budgetary benefit to the Commonwealth from an award [of the license] for Western Massachusetts and the receipt of the $85 million licensing fee by the end of this year.” Casino opponents are seeking to repeal the casino gaming law passed by the state Legislature in 2001. The state Supreme Judicial Court will begin hearing their arguments this month, and is expected to make a decision by July on whether the issue will appear on the November ballot. Once the license is issued, MGM argues, it will be required to pay not only the $85 million application fee, but also roughly $115 million in land options, construction, demolition, and other costs.
Berkshire Medical Center Purchases NARH Property
NORTH ADAMS — Berkshire Medical Center (BMC) has agreed to purchase the building and grounds of the recently shuttered North Adams Regional Hospital (NARH) as part of a deal reached in U.S. Bankruptcy Court to reopen the facility’s emergency room this month. The deal with Pittsfield-based BMC sets out a timetable to create a satellite emergency department the week of May 19 under an initial 90-day occupancy and use pact. Details on how many doctors and nurses would be hired and what services would be provided remain to be worked out. NARH executives shut down the financially troubled, 109-bed hospital on March 28, leaving nine rural communities in Northwestern Mass. without access to a nearby hospital. Over the past month, local, state, and court officials have been negotiating with BMC and labor unions representing nurses and others about reopening the emergency department. Beyond the purchase price, which will be revealed in the coming days, BMC officials said they would have to invest $10 million in repairs and improvements to the North Adams Regional Hospital building, but it is not expected to have to assume the closed hospital’s debt.
Life Sciences Center Awards $500,000 Grant to WNEU
SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Life Sciences Center has awarded a $500,000 grant to Western New England University to fund equipment related to cancer drug research and development. Susan Windham-Bannister, the center’s president and CEO, called the program a great example of promoting academic and private-sector collaboration in the life sciences, adding that equipment will be purchased for the development of live cancer-cell drug filtration and testing platforms. The university will collaborate with Cellular Engineering Technologies and FioDesign Sonics on product marketing and research. The Massachusetts Live Sciences Center is an investment agency that supports innovation, research, development, and commercialization in the life sciences. The agency is charged with implementing a 10-year, $1 billion, state-funded investment initiative passed by the Legislature and Gov. Deval Patrick in 2008.
Massachusetts Adds 8,100 Jobs in March
BOSTON — Preliminary estimates from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that Massachusetts added 8,100 jobs in March and that the total unemployment rate dropped another 0.2% to 6.3% from the February rate. Over the month, jobs are up 8,100, with private-sector jobs up 7,800. Since March 2013, Massachusetts added a net of 50,400 jobs, with 53,900 jobs added in the private sector and 3,500 lost in the public sector. The total unemployment rate was down 0.6% from the March 2013 rate of 6.9%. The recent estimates show that 3,285,800 Massachusetts residents were employed in March and 220,900 were unemployed, for a total labor force of 3,506,800. The March labor force increased by 12,100 from 3,494,700 in February, as 19,200 more residents were employed and 7,200 fewer residents were unemployed over the month. The labor force was an estimated 24,500 above the March 2013 estimate. The unemployment rate is based on a monthly sample of households. The job estimates are derived from a monthly sample survey of employers. As a result, the two statistics may exhibit different monthly trends.
The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.
FRANKLIN COUNTY
BUCKLAND
9 Crittenden Hill Road
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $216,000
Buyer: James E. Eagan
Seller: William Yenner
Date: 03/10/14
6 Homestead Ave.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $178,500
Buyer: Jason M. Jarvis
Seller: Luigi Ottaviani
Date: 03/20/14
CHARLEMONT
South River Road
Charlemont, MA 01339
Amount: $216,000
Buyer: Berkshire East Ski Resort
Seller: J. R. Dumouchel
Date: 03/14/14
CONWAY
3325 Shelburne Falls Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Mark A. Benjamin
Seller: Lively, Irene L., (Estate)
Date: 03/10/14
GREENFIELD
170 Davis St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $212,000
Buyer: Pamela Lerch
Seller: Edward H. Foster
Date: 03/17/14
32 Union St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $154,500
Buyer: Shirley B. Russell
Seller: Brightman IRT
Date: 03/17/14
LEVERETT
14 North Leverett Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Peoples United Bank
Seller: David W. Biddle
Date: 03/10/14
NEW SALEM
14 East Eagleville Lane
New Salem, MA 01364
Amount: $184,500
Buyer: Franklin J. Forton
Seller: Sarah E. Mazzarella
Date: 03/13/14
ORANGE
32 Pleasant St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $118,450
Buyer: John Dunphy
Seller: David Cloutier
Date: 03/21/14
SHELBURNE
111 Bridge St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Stefan A. Topolski
Seller: H&T Gerry NT
Date: 03/21/14
SUNDERLAND
153 Amherst Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $155,900
Buyer: Valley Building Co. Inc.
Seller: RBS Citizens
Date: 03/11/14
18 South Main St.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $346,500
Buyer: R. A. Hoff
Seller: Gordon Tripp
Date: 03/21/14
WHATELY
48 State Road
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $201,016
Buyer: MHFA
Seller: Kathleen A. Richard
Date: 03/18/14
HAMPDEN COUNTY
AGAWAM
113 Channell Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $115,200
Buyer: Saw Construction LLC
Seller: Household Finance Corp. 2
Date: 03/14/14
34 Harvey Johnson Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Raymond Lapointe
Seller: Richard L. Begin
Date: 03/21/14
92 Herbert P. Almgren Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: Atlantic Fasteners Co Inc.
Seller: Renz LLC
Date: 03/14/14
69 Lealand Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Joan M. Linnehan
Seller: Thomas H. Casiello
Date: 03/14/14
24 Mill St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Laura G. Roe
Seller: Catchepaugh, Phyllis L., (Estate)
Date: 03/20/14
121 Parkedge Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Jeffrey E. Twining
Seller: Edmund S. Salva
Date: 03/10/14
12 Rising St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Foti
Seller: Ralph C. Gates
Date: 03/12/14
BRIMFIELD
122 Haynes Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Sandra J. Miller-Leblanc
Seller: Joseph M. Renaud
Date: 03/14/14
144 Paige Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $226,500
Buyer: Jon Fagerstrom
Seller: FHLM
Date: 03/20/14
CHICOPEE
9 Canal St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Thomas E. McMahon
Seller: Charles S. Szczur
Date: 03/12/14
35 Dorrance St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Susan M. Gagnon
Seller: Robert R. Baran
Date: 03/13/14
102 Edward St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $249,900
Buyer: Ian S. Mercer
Seller: Premier Home Builders Inc.
Date: 03/11/14
364 Grattan St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $166,500
Buyer: Milena S. Sebastiao
Seller: Nicholas M. Butman
Date: 03/17/14
25 Hafey St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $154,900
Buyer: Amanda J. Nowak
Seller: Marcelle M. Rudek
Date: 03/21/14
114 Hendrick St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $120,000
Seller: Joyce E. Morissette
Date: 03/14/14
38 Hyde Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Frank A. Germain
Seller: John F. Ciesla
Date: 03/21/14
3 Sherwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $151,000
Buyer: Sarah D. Chivas
Seller: David J. Beaudry
Date: 03/14/14
447 Springfield St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Aura LLC
Seller: Carol A. Balakier
Date: 03/11/14
EAST LONGMEADOW
76 Admiral St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Daniel Kurowski
Seller: Mazza, Antonette J., (Estate)
Date: 03/21/14
Lee St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Tennessee Jed RT
Seller: Goldstein, Marie L., (Estate)
Date: 03/19/14
267 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Marada LLC
Seller: Falvo, Daniel D., (Estate)
Date: 03/13/14
HOLLAND
8 Collette Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Robert C. St.Jacques
Seller: Walter H. Gedney
Date: 03/14/14
HOLYOKE
25 Fenton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Logan M. Greaney
Seller: Lisa Little-Jennings
Date: 03/21/14
366 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Angelo Della Ripa
Seller: Bayview Loan Service LLC
Date: 03/17/14
61 Norwood Terrace
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $174,000
Buyer: Sandra E. Blaney
Seller: Robert W. Greaves
Date: 03/21/14
LONGMEADOW
178 Bliss Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $185,450
Buyer: Christine E. Callahan
Seller: John F. Staszko
Date: 03/17/14
1657 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Kristen S. Shejen
Seller: Richard J. Kane
Date: 03/14/14
734 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $920,000
Buyer: JP Morgan Chase Bank
Seller: Linda J. Polep
Date: 03/10/14
75 Rugby Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Kara M. Ryczek
Seller: Thomas J. Haller
Date: 03/12/14
52 South Park Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Penny E. Dugan
Seller: Fritz R. Schmidt
Date: 03/18/14
120 Warren Terrace
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Christine E. Anglehart
Seller: Roxann W. Sale
Date: 03/21/14
LUDLOW
37 White St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Nickolas Linna
Seller: Carole A. Devine
Date: 03/10/14
MONSON
26 Childs Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $374,900
Buyer: Grant W. Hamilton
Seller: Justin Haggerty
Date: 03/18/14
PALMER
2230 Main St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Crossway Christian Church
Seller: Roman Catholic Bishop of Springfield
Date: 03/21/14
3027 Thorndike St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Sean D. Genereux
Seller: Mark Jackson
Date: 03/13/14
SPRINGFIELD
18 Claremont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Jose I. Toledo
Seller: Devon Boreland
Date: 03/19/14
72 East Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $126,000
Buyer: Terese M. Chenier
Seller: Roland R. Menard
Date: 03/21/14
63 Eleanor Road
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $143,000
Buyer: Damaris D. Marmolejo
Seller: City Joe LLC
Date: 03/12/14
204 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Trevor H. Agnitti
Seller: George J. Kelly
Date: 03/21/14
16 Haumont Terrace
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $131,869
Buyer: FNMA
Seller: Maurice Polite
Date: 03/14/14
35 Healey St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $163,000
Buyer: Thomas J. Gerrity
Seller: Peter S. Slivka
Date: 03/18/14
19 Leroy Place
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $117,500
Buyer: Jose Rodriguez
Seller: Theresa Kwatowski
Date: 03/19/14
357 Liberty St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: 401 Liberty Street LLC
Seller: Gleason Siterly LLC
Date: 03/11/14
60 Martone Place
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Martone Place LLC
Seller: Ryanne Realty LLC
Date: 03/17/14
182 Mazarin St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $204,900
Buyer: James Mugwanja
Seller: Joseph A. Cretella
Date: 03/13/14
N/A
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $139,900
Buyer: Crystal D. Hudson
Seller: Russell A. Thompson
Date: 03/12/14
65 Peekskill Ave.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Carolyn M. Burke
Seller: Judith A. Brown
Date: 03/12/14
34 Redden St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Cynthia L. Anderson
Seller: Mitchell T. Taylor
Date: 03/20/14
116 Roosevelt Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $137,500
Buyer: Caroline Keady
Seller: Jessica L. Rivers
Date: 03/13/14
100 Savoy Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Manuel Mantilla
Seller: John P. Bechard
Date: 03/14/14
130 Timothy Circle
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Michael A. Johnson
Seller: Marcel Daigle
Date: 03/21/14
80 Vail St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $171,900
Buyer: Edgar A. Gonzalez
Seller: Lauralee Routier
Date: 03/21/14
SOUTHWICK
198 Hillside Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $357,500
Buyer: Hector E. Garcia
Seller: Stephen Iczkowski
Date: 03/21/14
96 Mort Vining Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Peter M. Gallant
Seller: Joseph A. Gallant
Date: 03/14/14
WALES
8 Sizer Dr.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Erica T. Enos
Seller: Gerald F. Hebert
Date: 03/11/14
WESTFIELD
33 Bates Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $227,000
Buyer: Gladys M. Szenda
Seller: Brian P. Shea
Date: 03/10/14
48 Broad St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Domus Inc.
Seller: American National Red Cross
Date: 03/10/14
183 Dry Bridge Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: City Of Westfield
Seller: Albert J. Szenda
Date: 03/10/14
139 Fowler Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Roxanne N. Cryankowski
Seller: L. C. Rhodes
Date: 03/14/14
68 Governor Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Svetlana Chernoyvan
Seller: Robert T. Strong
Date: 03/14/14
55 Loomis Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Anthony V. Ascolillo
Seller: Anthony J. Andrews
Date: 03/12/14
14 Lowell Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Peter A. Dehey
Seller: Dana Kiendzior
Date: 03/14/14
32 Mill St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Daniel P. Valeri
Seller: Michael J. Cyrankowski
Date: 03/14/14
284 Paper Mill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Jack R. Davis
Seller: Niranjan Sampat
Date: 03/14/14
28 Riverside Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $116,666
Buyer: Elaine M. Chrzanowski
Seller: Chrzanowski, Katharina, (Estate)
Date: 03/19/14
66 Westfield Industrial Park
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $223,020
Buyer: Tomar Sales LLC
Seller: Ashland Inc.
Date: 03/13/14
74 Woodcliff Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Sean P. Ritter
Seller: Deborah Miles
Date: 03/18/14
WILBRAHAM
3096 Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $183,500
Buyer: Christian B. Colon
Seller: Edwin Bones
Date: 03/21/14
5 Carla Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Justin D. Newman
Seller: AC Homebuilding LLC
Date: 03/17/14
36 Old Boston Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $159,000
Buyer: Karen L. Madden
Seller: Deborah A. Ordynowicz
Date: 03/14/14
WEST SPRINGFIELD
89 Circle Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $199,900
Buyer: Joyce L. Korona
Seller: Jonathan E. Sady
Date: 03/18/14
557 Dewey St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $205,500
Buyer: Nathaniel A. Martin
Seller: Joseph R. Cotton
Date: 03/14/14
17 Fabyan St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $152,500
Buyer: Lori J. Lusnia
Seller: Maureen A. Sullivan
Date: 03/17/14
86 Forest Ridge Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Demetrios N. Panteleakis
Seller: Hector E. Garcia
Date: 03/21/14
91 Garden St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $152,000
Buyer: Carol Maki
Seller: Park St. Development LLC
Date: 03/12/14
36 Maple Terrace
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: MRMM TR
Seller: Patricia A. Conway
Date: 03/14/14
60 Piper Cross Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $137,900
Buyer: Michael P. Czechowski
Seller: Nicholas W. Vooys
Date: 03/14/14
104 West Calvin St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $188,000
Buyer: Pamela J. Callahan
Seller: Donald E. Wright
Date: 03/14/14
HAMPSHIRE COUNTY
AMHERST
73 Cherry Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Ryan Morley
Seller: Myung-Ro Lee
Date: 03/14/14
15 Fisher St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $291,000
Buyer: Scott M. Paul
Seller: Benjamin D. Wells-Tolley
Date: 03/11/14
BELCHERTOWN
12 Ledgewood Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $261,500
Buyer: Thomas R. Scott
Seller: Property Enhancement LLC
Date: 03/18/14
75 Mountain View Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $364,000
Buyer: Corey Loranger
Seller: John E. Taras
Date: 03/21/14
51 North Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $144,500
Buyer: Nelson Z. Eusebio
Seller: Fred J. Wang
Date: 03/10/14
85 North Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Mary L. Macintyre
Seller: DAG Real Estate Dev. Inc.
Date: 03/21/14
36 Oasis St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Brian Hampson
Seller: Gregory E. Pyles
Date: 03/11/14
15 Pine St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Brendan M. Sullivan
Seller: David E. Cote
Date: 03/18/14
EASTHAMPTON
26 Gula Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Kevin K. Blinn
Seller: Russell H. Phillips
Date: 03/21/14
27 Holyoke St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Nationstar Mortgage LLC
Seller: Linda S. Payson
Date: 03/18/14
2 Jessie Lane
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Rainbow Properties LLC
Seller: Kelly I. Savoie
Date: 03/14/14
GOSHEN
32 Fuller Road
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $173,000
Buyer: Micharl R. Secor
Seller: Bryan L. Clark
Date: 03/11/14
GRANBY
508 East State St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $192,500
Buyer: Matthew Loomis
Seller: Michael J. Konetzny
Date: 03/21/14
HATFIELD
91 Cronin Hill Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $382,500
Buyer: Benjamin H. Heckscher
Seller: Amy S. Johnson
Date: 03/13/14
HUNTINGTON
3 Harlow Clark Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $292,500
Buyer: Laurel A. Raffetto
Seller: Sean P. Ritter
Date: 03/18/14
NORTHAMPTON
Audubon Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Vizentin
Seller: Jane Hill
Date: 03/14/14
71 Forest Glen Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Christopher A. Haynes
Seller: John P. Tobin
Date: 03/14/14
SOUTH HADLEY
24 Kimberly Dr.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $249,900
Buyer: Todd X. Tobin
Seller: US Bank NA
Date: 03/21/14
SOUTHAMPTON
8 Bluemer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $169,000
Buyer: Anne E. Chapdelaine
Seller: FNMA
Date: 03/21/14
156 East St.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $396,000
Buyer: Brendan P. Fuller
Seller: Bellinger Construction Inc.
Date: 03/21/14
147 Russellville Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Michael S. Ingraham
Seller: Pioneer Valley Redevelopment LLC
Date: 03/18/14
WARE
53 Babcock Tavern Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $238,960
Buyer: Zachary Czaplicki
Seller: Mark A. Dicaire
Date: 03/20/14
34 Greenwich Plains Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $172,000
Buyer: Gregory Foucher
Seller: Benjamin Mazzei
Date: 03/11/14
277 Old Belchertown Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $273,000
Buyer: Michael J. Konetzny
Seller: Marylynne Macintyre
Date: 03/21/14
WESTHAMPTON
46 Main Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Robert W. Fondakowski
Seller: Patricia E. Patenaude
Date: 03/21/14
WILLIAMSBURG
21 Village Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $230,263
Buyer: Mario Cohn-Haft
Date: 03/20/14
The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of and April 2014.
AMHERST
Amherst Survival Center
138 Sunderland Road
Mindy Domb
Head Games Beauty Supply
67 North Pleasant St.
Erica Wilson-Perkins
The Homestead
500 Sunderland Ave.
Peter Emmet
Woodland Associates
67 Hulst Road
Michael Hutton-Woodland
CHICOPEE
4 Quality Home Construction
116 Hampden St.
Denis Borisov
Bottle in the Smoke
76 Meadow St.
Jonathan Fannin
Greenski Contracting
188 Irene St.
Jeremy Greene
R & J Transport, LLC
106 Fletcher Circle
Robert Craig
LUDLOW
Chicago Pneumatic Construction Equipment
151 Carmelina’s Circle
Mining, Rock Excavation & Construction, LLC
Liberty Tax Service
61 East St.
Steven Kowalski
Massachusetts Refrigerant Abatement
100 State St.
Thomas Washer
Monark Complementary Health
110 Clearwater Circle
Monica Gagnon
Moonlight Café
387 East St.
Ten-Go, Inc.
NORTHAMPTON
Ann Xtra Hand
33 Roe Ave.
Patricia A. Rick
Couples Center of the Pioneer Valley
182 Main St.
Katherine Waddell
Greg’s Auto Repair
376 Easthampton Road
Jeffrey Tenczar
Leading The Way Doggie Daycare
18 Chestnut St.
Melissa Mehlman
Mike’s Along For The Ride
157 Prospect Ave.
Michael Cahill
R & L Healthcare Consulting
35 New South St.
Robin Lango
Room 6 Salon
140 Pine St.
Melanie Burnett
Steady Pine Publishing
8 Hockanon Road
Kerim May
System Technology RX
19 Whittier St.
John Celentano
SOUTHWICK
Diversified Technical Products
6 Pearl Brook Road
David Thompson
G.J. Battles Remodeling
49 Point Grove Road
Gregory Battles
LJ’s Unlimited Landscaping
10 Lexington Circle
Leonard Allen III
Ming House
648 College Highway
Shuming Chen
Our Community Food Pantry Inc.
220 College Highway
Pauline Cebula
SPRINGFIELD
K & S Wholesaler
258 Main St.
Warren Costa
Kevin Conway Auto Sales
200 Orange St.
William McCarthy
Kimi, LLC
38 Kingoke Lane
Kimberly K. Weaver
Maidpro
527 Belmont St.
Heewon Yang
Majestic Barber Shop 2
322 St. James Ave.
Misael Colon
Mi Antojito Bakery
126 Walnut St.
Marilyn Gali
Mobile Welding
74 Joan St.
Michael Skrabely
My Sister’s Stuff
143 Main St.
Angela M. Enos
Mylrose Lawn Care
9 Flint St.
Anthony Brown
NEFW Pro Wrestling
61 Starling Road
Shileen L. Gallerani
No B.S. Property Maintenance
261 Oakland St.
Corey J. Scott
North End Pizzeria
2550 Main St.
Daniel E. Ojeda
One Stop Mart
477 Boston Road
Ramchandra Parekh
Pioneer Valley Industries
16 Esther St.
William J. Kern II
Protemp
24 Hiawatha St.
Sean Gould
Red’s Variety, LLC
1196 St. James Ave.
Natalie A. Henry
Rhino Linings of Springfield
50 Verge St.
Michael T. Dancy
Rumba Music Shop
2633 Main St.
Felix Perez
S & K Distribution, LLC
165 Avocado St.
Ray Steele
United States Veterans
1350 Main St.
Luann Beaulieu
Uno Chicago Grill
1722 Boston Road
Uno Restaurants, LLC
Unstoppable Auto Club
511 East Columbus Ave.
Zenita Roman
WESTFIELD
Big Big Box, LLC
66 Industrial Park Road
Anthony Gleason
CZ Power Body Work
31 Elm St.
Hong Zhang
John Guagliardo’s American Dream
100 Steiger Dr.
John Guagliardo
Millrite Machine Inc.
587 Southampton Road
Robert F. Valcourt
Noble Medical Group
115 West Silver St.
Ronald Bryant
Step by Step Cooking
21 Sunflower Lane
Patrice Mercier
WEST SPRINGFIELD
Allied Heating & Air Conditioning
101 Circuit Ave.
Gary Giordano
Bathcrest of Western Mass.
176 Labelle St.
James E. Belle-Isle
BBC Trucking
58 Amherst St.
William C. Della
Drollett Plumbing & Heating
1 High St.
Jamie L. Drollett
ER Portal Software Group
59 Interstate Dr.
Edward Garibian
Father & Son Home Improvement
65 Verdugo St.
Peter Dzhenzherukha
J.I.S. Roofing Company
103 Ashley Ave.
Justin Grimm
Safaribudget.com
71 Craig Dr.
Aloyce C. Assenga
Sam’s
96 Southworth St.
Ivan Banari
Spartan Auto Care Center
865 Memorial Ave.
Nicholas Katsoulis
Thistle Security Products
78 Mercury Court
Angus Rushlow
Trinity Fitness Options
50 Thomas Dr.
Jessica Benchin
BANKRUPTCIES
The following bankruptcy petitions were recently filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Readers should confirm all information with the court.
Albrecht, Susan A.
79 Talbot Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Andrews, Sandra E.
3 Field Dr.
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Berthiaume, Nathan
413 Belchertown Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/12/14
Bourgeois, Michael
15 1/2 North St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/14/14
Butler, James M.
70 Ruthven St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/11/14
Celestial Visions Inc.
Kopec, Celeste A.
61 Parallel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Cronin, John M.
22 Carol Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/12/14
Dockum, Thelma G.
Phins Hill Manor
50 West State St., AP
Granby, MA 01033
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/14/14
Dubois, Holly Beth
76 Monroe St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/15/14
Fondon, Tommy L.
Fondon, Janine
189 Braeburn Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/11/14
Fontaine, Gregory J.
37 Steuben St.
Indian Orchard, MA 01151
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/15/14
Gay, Albert T.
Gay, Tanya L.
94 Jacob St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Goff, Jeffrey M.
Goff, Amy R.
64 Biddle St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Hamade, Yasser M.
127 Woodcrest Circle
Springfield, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Hojnowski, Krista A.
17 Adams St., Apt. 6
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Kronoff, Charles R.
Kronoff, Mary Beth
577 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/11/14
McCann, Shawn P.
3 Oakwood Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Murray, Erin N.
68 Knollwood Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/14/14
Pashko, Joseph M.
53 West School St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Penoyer, Curtis J.
Penoyer, Sonya C.
P.O. Box 528
Bondsville, MA 01009
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/13/14
Raffloer, Evelyn
417 Springfield St., #140
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Filing Date: 03/14/14
Rivera, Albert
Murphy-Rivera, Kimberly A.
245 Allen Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 13
Filing Date: 03/14/14
ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• April 30: ACCGS Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by Sen. Gale Candaras. Hear from key legislators, members of the Patrick administration, and our local delegation. Cost: $180, including transportation, lunch at the Union Club, and a wrap-up reception at the 21st Amendment. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• May 7: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. “Handicapping the Gubernatorial Elections with Political Consultant Anthony Cignoli.” Saluting Skoler Abbott & Presser, P.C. on its 50th anniversary and A.G. Miller Co. Inc. on its 100th anniversary. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• May 14: ERC Feast in the East, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. Local restaurants showcase their signature dishes. Cost: $25. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• May 21: Capital Matchmaking/Business Coaching, 1-4 p.m., at La Quinta Inn and Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Business borrower and lender matchmaking event, ideal for small businesses. Presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration and Common Capital, in cooperation with the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield. Reservations are complimentary, but required. Contact Oreste Varela at [email protected] or (413) 785-0484 for details.
• May 27: ACCGS Pastries, Politics & Policy, 8-9 a.m., at TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Designed for political and policy junkies, featuring a policy expert and member of the Patrick administration. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission, and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700
• April 23: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., at Western MA Family Golf Center, 294 Russell St., Hadley. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for guests.
• May 14: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., at Western MA Family Golf Center, 294 Russell St., Hadley. Try the golf simulator and mini-golf, or just enjoy watching and networking. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for guests.
• May 28: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m. at Amherst Laser and Skin Care Center, 264 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for guests.
CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
• May 21: 48th annual George Ryan & Stanley Kokoszka Golf Tournament, 10 a.m. start, at Chicopee Country Club. Cost: $125 per golfer.
• May 22: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at WWLP-22News, One Broadcast Center, Chicopee. Tickets: $10 for pre-registered members, $15 for non-members.
• May 28: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m. at Elms College. Tickets: $20 for members, $26 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org.
GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• May 2: Wine & Microbrew Tasting, 6 p.m., at Wyckoff Country Club. All guests (age 21 and older) are welcome to enjoy samples of more than 42 delicious and unique grape and fruit wines. Not interested in wine? There’s also a microbrew tasting. Cost: $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
• May 3: Easthampton Downtown Clean Up Day, 8 a.m. Join us for a few hours of community spirit and support at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce Office, 33 Union St. Volunteers are encouraged to bring rakes, shovels, brush cutters, and gloves. No experience necessary. General cleanup of downtown, the rail trail, Cottage Street Municipal Parking Lot, the banks of the Nashawannuck Pond, and more. Sponsored by the Easthampton Development & Industrial Commission and the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce. For more information, contact the chamber Office at (413) 527-9414 or e-mail [email protected].
• May 8: Networking by Night. Call 527-9414 or e-mail [email protected] for more information. Cost: $5 for members, $15 for non-members.
GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
• April 25: Ask a Chamber Expert Workshop, 8:30-10 a.m. “How to Use MassLive to Work for Your Business,” at the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, 177 High St. Sponsored by MassLive/the Republican and Holyoke Community College. Cost: $10 for chamber members, $20 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
• April 29: Business Person of the Year Award Dinner, 6 p.m. at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. The Greater Holyoke Business Community honors Barbara Baran as business person of the year. Cost: $65. Register at the chamber office, call (413) 534-3376, or sign up online at www.holycham.com.
• May 14: Economic Development Breakfast/Valley Venture Mentors, at Dean Technical High School, 1045 Main St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Ferriter Law and Dowd Insurance. Valley Venture Mentors provides key support to entrepreneurs and startups, connecting them to the mentors they need to grow their business. Breakfast will be followed by a tour of Dean Tech. Cost: $20 for chamber members, $ 30 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 for more information, or sign up online at www.holycham.com.
• May 19: 46th annual Chamber Cup 2014 Golf Tournament, at Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Registration and lunch at 10:30 a.m., tee off at noon (scramble format), dinner afterward with elaborate food stations catered by the Log Cabin. Cost: $125 per player includes lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart, and dinner. Dinner only: $25. Winner awards, raffles, and cash prizes follow dinner. Tournament sponsors: Log Cabin and PeoplesBank. Corporate Sponsors: Dowd Insurance, Goss & McLain Insurance Agency, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Mountain View Landscapes, Holyoke Medical Center, People’s United Bank, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite & Driscoll. Call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 or register online at www.holycham.com.
• May 28: Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting, 5 p.m., at the Delaney House. Sponsored by the Greater Holyoke of Chamber Corporate Leaders. The program is followed by the presentation of the Fifield Award celebrating the volunteer of the year; join elected officials as they award various proclamations to the esteemed recipient. Networking and cocktails at 5, business meeting and elections at 5:30, dinner at 6. The program will include the chamber’s plan for 2014-15, an overview of how the chamber is working for members, and a salute to new members. Admission: $30 in advance, $40 at the door. The public is invited to attend.
• May 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Hotel D., 1 Country Club Way, Holyoke. Sponsored by Easthampton Saving Bank and hosted by chamber members. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900
• April 22: “Art of Small Business” series, “Clients,” 8:30- 9:30 a.m. at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St. Guests speaker: Tina Stevens of Stevens 470. Admission is free, but registration is required.
• May 7: Arrive@ 5, 5-7 p.m., at King & Cushman, 176 King St., Northampton. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage Services Corp., King Auto Body, and Goggins Real Estate. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at [email protected].
• May 15: “Art of Small Business” series, “Managing Consultants,” 9-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St. Guest speaker: Don Lesser of Pioneer Training. Cost: $20 for members, $25 for non-members.
• May 19: Bitcoin Informational Seminar, 3-4 p.m. at Forbes Library, 20 West St., Northampton. Sponsored by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Guest speaker: Jesse Vanek. This seminar examines basic Bitcoin concepts, including arguments for and against this powerful, often-misunderstood, and potentially disruptive new technology. Cost: free, but pre-registration is required. To register, call (413) 584-1900 or e-mail [email protected].
GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
• April 30: Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by Sen. Gale Candaras. Hear from key legislators and members of the Patrick Administration. Includes bus, lunch, and reception. Cost: $180 per person. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• May 5: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the Westfield Gas & Electric Operations Center, 40 Turnpike Industrial Road, Westfield. This event is free and open to the public. Mayor Daniel Knapik will field questions and give information about upcoming city events and construction information. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• May 14: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Noble & Cooley Center for Historical Preservation, 42 Water St., Granville. Bring a prospective member for free. Cost: $10 for members $15 cash at the door for non-members. Your first After 5 is free. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• May 19: 53rd annual Golf Tournament, featuring prime rib and poker, at Shaker Farms Country Club. Registration is at 10 a.m., with a shotgun start at 11. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Call Pam at the chamber office for more information at (413) 568-1618, or visit the chamber website.
The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.
CHICOPEE DISTRICT COURT
Brixmor GA Chicopee Marketplace, LLC v. Family Wireless Inc. and John J. Sullivan
Allegation: Breach of commercial lease for space at the Chicopee Marketplace: $30,968.45
Filed: 3/25/14
GSD Coating, LLC v. Diecast Connections Company Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment of services provided: $7,609.50
Filed: 3/10/14
HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Chicopee Savings Bank v. Innovative Designs & Displays Inc., Sugar Hill Holdings, LLC, Michael Hogan, and Patricia Hogan
Allegation: Breach and default on a revolving demand note and three term notes: $3,488,114.90
Filed: 3/7/14
John L. Doleva, as representative of the estate of Martha M. Doleva v. Healthsouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Western Mass.
Allegation: Wrongful death caused by Methotrexate overdose: $1,510,912.28
Filed: 3/14/14
Par Church Builders, LLC v. Saint John’s Congregational Church
Allegation: Breach of contract for construction of a church: $39,000
Filed: 3/20/14
Shawn Lawskow v. Steer-Rite Inc.
Allegation: Discrimination, workers’ compensation, and related claims: $150,000
Filed: 3/13/14
Sovereign Bank, N.N. v. PC Doctor General Partnership, Andrew F. Jay Jr., and Carol Jay
Allegation: Default on promissory note: $38,866.13
Filed: 3/28/14
Utica National Insurance Group a/s/o Pro Automotive Repair Inc. v. BMW of North America
Allegation: Negligence, breach of warranty, defective Mini Cooper causing fire and resulting in damage to real and personal property: $1.3 million
Filed: 3/3/14
HAMPSHIRE SUPERIOR COURT
Rodney J. Savery Jr. v. Max Cap Properties, LLC and West Street Bar & Grill Inc.
Allegation: Wrongful death: $100,099.21
Filed: 2/7/14
Easthampton Savings Bank v. N.A.R. Realty, LLC and Joel J. Marchand
Allegation: Breach of contract: $158,012.56
Filed: 3/6/14
HOLYOKE DISTRICT COURT
David Cole v. Astro Realty Trust
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of property causing injury: $5,000
Filed: 2/12/14
Mary Hodgins v. The Hershey Co.
Allegation: Negligence and product defect causing injury: $1,018.76
Filed: 2/20/14
NORTHAMPTON DISTRICT COURT
American Express Bank FSB v. Stephen M. Chaput and Real Estate Management Inc.
Allegation: Breach of credit cardholder agreement: $5,961
Filed: 2/24/14
Gary Swanson v. Camp Greylock for Boys Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment for engineering services rendered: $14,699
Filed: 3/3/14
John B. Dunphy v. Peerless Indemnity Insurance Co.
Allegation: Breach of contract for refusal to pay plaintiff’s claim: $25,000
Filed: 3/19/14
PALMER DISTRICT COURT
Wine Art of Ohio Inc. d/b/a Carlson Co. v. Michael Bernier d/b/a DIY Brewing Supply
Allegation: Breach of contract and complaint to enforce foreign judgment: $2,159.29+
Filed: 3/6/14
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Melody Joy v. Pamela Stacey Gerber-Gressier d/b/a National Remedy Center
Allegation: Defendant failed to refund money that was paid for legal service defendant was not licensed to provide: $3,495
Filed: 3/3/14
Wilbraham Carefully Crafts a Plan for Growth
Tracey Plantier and John Pearsall say Wilbraham residents want to maintain the town’s historic New England charm.
“Wilbraham is primarily a residential community, and what attracts people here is the quality of life,” said the town’s planning director. “But people are also comfortable with the idea that Boston Road is very commercial, and they want growth there to continue.”
These opinions were voiced repeatedly in studies contained in a report released last September titled “Wilbraham Looks Forward.” It documents the results of surveys and focus-group meetings conducted by an all-volunteer vision task force over an 18-month period. Members of the panel were appointed by the Planning Board, and their goal was to solicit opinions from residents and business owners about what they appreciate about the town as well as change they would like to see in coming years.
“Our mission was to generate a consensus-based guiding vision to address Wilbraham’s current and evolving challenges and opportunities,” said vision team chair Tracey Plantier, who is a member of the Planning Board and volunteer for the Open Space and Recreation Plan Committee (more about the report later).
Wilbraham was devastated by the tornado that swept through Western Mass. in 2011, but the majority of that damage has been repaired. And although commercial and residential growth has been slow since 2008, Pearsall said, “last year, things started to rebound.”
In December, Lumber Liquidators opened on 2148 Boston Road, and two auto dealerships made significant investments in their properties. Balise Ford held a grand-opening ceremony to welcome the public to a new, 26,000-square-foot, $4.2 million dealership about 11 months ago. The expansion added about 20 new jobs and helped strengthen the town’s tax base.
“Officials from Balise told us they were impressed by the town’s streamlined permitting process,” said Pearsall. “They described it as effortless compared to other communities.”
In addition, Lia Toyota’s showroom on 2145 Boston Road got a $300,000 facelift last year. “And Baystate Self Store LLC on 2350 Boston Road is expected to open in June with 73,125 square feet of available storage space,” said Pearsall, adding that some of it will be climate-controlled.
Growth is also occurring in the residential sector, as 18 new homes and/or condominiums were built in 2013 at a cost of $4.74 million. “The majority were in the Gardens at Wilbraham and in Cedar Ridge, which are both on Boston Road,” Pearsall said.
Eric Fuller, the town’s planning director, told BusinessWest that the three-mile strip of Boston Road that runs through Wilbraham is zoned for commercial and industrial use and contains land and buildings available for purchase or for lease. “Properties for sale include the former Medeiros Williams Chevrolet Co. building and lot.”
Pearsall agrees that opportunity abounds on Boston Road, home to a significant amount of underutilized and/or vacant space. “The former Taylor Rental property next to Home Depot is available, and on a smaller scale, there is space for lease in a number of strip malls,” he said. “Plus, the site across the street from Post Office Park has been cleaned up and is for sale.”
Post Office Park is a horseshoe-shaped, planned commercial development on Boston Road with two entrances and traffic signals. The back of the property is home to many businesses that are attractive to families, including the YMCA’s Wilbraham branch, All American Gymnastics, a dance academy, some small retail shops, and a pediatric medical office.
But land is still available at the front of the park, which Pearsall said is suitable for a high-profile retail business, due to its visibility from Boston Road and the fact that 40,000 vehicles travel up and down the busy thoroughfare each day.
“It is a significant commuter route, with Springfield to the west, Palmer to the east, and the entrance to the Mass Turnpike in Palmer,” he said. “Jake’s Restaurant across the street feeds off the traffic from the people who attend recreational and sporting events at Post Office Park, and Eastfield Mall, just down the road in Springfield, attracts shoppers.”
Enhanced Value
Education is important to Wilbraham residents, and the town boasts three secondary schools, including the private Wilbraham-Monson Academy; the parochial Cathedral High, temporarily housed in the old Memorial School building; and the new, $50 million, state-of-the-art Minnechaug Regional High School, which serves students from Wilbraham and Hampden.
“When people come into my office, they always ask about our schools, and the high quality we offer is a really big draw,” Pearsall said, explaining that the new high school has a day-care facility, and the grounds of the old building have been turned into athletic playing fields.
Eric Fuller shows off a copy of “Wilbraham Looks Forward,” which documents opinions solicited from residents and business owners.
Major investments have also been made at Spec Pond, which is home to a summer day camp run by the Parks and Recreation Department. “More than $1 million has been spent in the park over the last few years,” said Fuller. “We have new pavilions, a new playground, and new playing fields for youth baseball, lacrosse, and softball. It’s a very large complex with lights that can also be used for night football. Plus, a spray park is being installed and will be ready by the time summer arrives.”
In another section of town, the iconic Rice Fruit Farm building is undergoing a major renovation. “The Rice family ran their farm for many generations and grew their fruit stand into a retail store,” Pearsall explained. But the storefront has been vacant since the family closed the business about five years ago.
Fuller said there was some interest in redeveloping the site, but its residential zoning was a stumbling block. However, that changed recently when the Planning Board revised the zoning based on the fact that the building had been operated as a farm stand. “It allowed the new owner to repurpose the structure and make it into a viable business,” he explained.
The retail establishment, called Heritage Farm Stand, is expected to open within the next few months. “They’ll sell fruit, ice cream, pies, and baked goods, and will have indoor and outdoor seating,” Pearsall said. “This is an adaptive reuse of a building that everyone in town wanted to reopen.”
Vision Quest
The town is comprised of a number of neighborhoods — Wilbraham Center, North Wilbraham, East Wilbraham, Wilbraham Mountain, South Wilbraham, the Boston Road Corridor, and the Pines section — and during the past year, residents and business owners from all sectors had the opportunity to voice their opinions about what type of change they would like to see in the future via surveys conducted by the Vision Task Force.
“We created subcommittees that did in-depth studies on education, land use, livability, and town services,” Plantier said. “The study was unique and something that few towns do, but we wanted to create a focused vision strategy.”
To that end, the task force developed an extensive questionnaire titled “Community Insights,” and residents were given the opportunity to respond online or in writing at town meetings, at concerts in Fountain Park, and during tours of the new high school held at the beginning of the 2012-13 school year.
The study was designed to provide input on what Plantier refers to as “the dynamics of change,” and answer the questions, “where are we going?” “what are we in the process of becoming if we follow the current course?” and “what will Wilbraham look like in 20 years and beyond if current trends continue?”
The task force also held focus-group sessions with business owners, members of the Boston Road Business Assoc., the Rotary Club, the East of the River Chamber of Commerce, and other organizations. In addition, a survey was mailed to 200 businesses.
The final event was called Imagine Wilbraham Day, which was attended by 100 people who had the opportunity to express or reiterate their opinions about what works well in town and what changes could prove beneficial. The results have been compiled in a report titled “Wilbraham Looks Forward,” and a new committee has been created to facilitate ways to implement desired change.
However, two items that emanated from the surveys are already on the town’s agenda and will be voted on during the May 12 town meeting. The first involves signage and would allow new businesses to erect temporary signs welcoming customers.
The second would permit an expansion of land use in Wilbraham Center. Pearsall explained that every plot of land in the neighborhood is currently zoned as either neighborhood/office space or neighborhood/shopping space. “We are not changing the zoning; we are homogenizing it,” he said, adding that the proposal would give property owners the ability to create food establishments or small shops in that section of town.
However, Plantier reiterated that, although residents want more shopping and restaurant options, they are deeply committed to maintaining the look and feel of Wilbraham, which she described as “a scenic, small New England town.”
“One of the biggest challenges to our economic development is balancing the change that residents want while keeping the look and feel of a scenic, historic small town with green, open space,” she said, adding that two requests voiced repeatedly in the survey are for additional sidewalks and bike lanes along the roadways.
The May town meeting will also give residents the chance to learn about volunteer opportunities with the town’s nonprofit organizations. Booths will be set up by representatives who will be ready and willing to share information. “This is important, as many people who responded to the survey expressed an interest in becoming more engaged in town, and said they want to see more events held in our community,” Plantier said.
Wilbraham also has two active committees pushing for a new safety complex and senior center. Although financial resources are limited, the Fire Department completed a $2.8 million renovation of its main fire station last year. “It was brilliantly done in a manner that didn’t require the town to borrow any money,” Fuller said. “It was a collaborative effort, and the fire chief was committed to adapting what he had to the needs of the department through the use of available funds.”
Pearsall added that the project set a precedent “to be creative and try to get the best results at the lowest cost to the taxpayers.”
Home-based Help
One thing that makes Wilbraham unique is the willingness of its residents to share their time to improve life in town.
“Many people own businesses or have professional expertise and are happy to contribute their talents or make donations to programs here,” said Pearsall. “There is a lot of community support to improve the quality of life.”
That trend is sure to continue as “Wilbraham Looks Forward,” paying due diligence to the opinions of residents who take great pride in the place they call home.
Wilbraham at a glance
Year Incorporated: 1763
<strong>Population: 14,868 (2010); 13,473 (2000)
Area: 22.4 square miles
County: Hampden
Residential Tax Rate: $20.44
Commercial Tax Rate: $20.44
Median Household Income: $90,670
Family Household Income: $102,557
Type of government: Open Town Meeting
Largest employers: Friendly Ice Cream Corp.; Town of Wilbraham; Wilbraham and Monson Academy; Life Care Center of Wilbraham
* Latest information available
Business Insurance Broker, John M. Glover Agency, age 28
Kyle Sullivan’s photo shoot for 40 Under Forty includes a random assortment of props — or perhaps not so random, in the way they reflect his many priorities.
The blue stuffed bear signifies his son, expected in July. The silver clock was an award for being named ‘most valuable participant’ at the Hartford School of Insurance last year while receiving his commercial lines specialist designation. And the coffee mug is from his close friend Terra Missildine, owner of Beloved Earth, an environmentally friendly cleaning company he helped navigate the insurance landscape.
But Sullivan doesn’t like to think of himself as a salesman. “I’m someone who builds relationships with clients,” he said. “I provide business insurance, and I work with people who buy homes, rental properties, auto — any insurance besides health and life.”
He focuses mainly on commercial lines, however, and he’s working toward his certification as a construction risk insurance specialist. “That gives me more specific knowledge to work with contractors, which is something I like to do. I hit it off with them; our personalities just mesh.”
Sullivan is a third-generation member of this family business, which was started by his grandfather. But growing up, he wasn’t sure whether he wanted to follow the family path. Instead, he had a passion for entrepreneurship.
But his current role gives him a satisfying foothold in that world. “I like to learn about people’s businesses, and there aren’t many fields where you can learn about businesses in depth the way I do,” he said. “I need to understand a business to a great extent to make sure I have the right coverage for what they’ve built. I like to think, ‘they’ve put the last 10 years of their lives into this business. If they lost it all, do they have the right coverage to continue to be in business?’”
Sullivan helps people in other ways as well, through civic involvement that includes Western Mass. Junior Achievement, the Holyoke Blue Sox board, the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, and Leadership Pioneer Valley — all with a focus on building the region’s economic future.
“We’re doing anything we can do,” he said, “to better to the Pioneer Valley and build leadership skills and connect people in the Valley who are emerging leaders.”
— Joseph Bednar
Springfield City Councilor; District Director, Office of State Sen. James Welch, age 31
Orlando Ramos has always been a fighter.
He trained under local boxing legend Duke Belton and took plenty of punches. “But I think I’ve been hit harder in politics than in the ring,” he said. “I fought in the ring, and now I fight outside the ring for the people — for what I represent.”
After graduating from Putnam Vocational Technical High School, Ramos began his professional career as a carpenter, and was appointed union steward of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters Local 108 in 2007, followed by election to the executive board in 2008. But he eventually left the trade to focus on public service.
“It all started for me when I was involved in drafting a piece of legislation relative to construction unions, and I made friends in the process,” he said. “After I hurt my back, I got offered an internship in the Western Mass. governor’s office, and it took off from there for me.”
Broadening his passion for service, Ramos has been a member of the Indian Orchard Citizens Council, the Ward 8 Democratic Committee, and the Labor Council for Latin-American Advancement, as well as a stint as Springfield license commissioner.
“That was a great learning experience,” he said. “I was able to accomplish a lot in terms of making positive changes on the commission. Combined with the whole experience working in the governor’s office, I felt like that was the path I wanted to take — helping other people.”
He was then offered a full-time position as district director in the office of state Sen. James Welch, handling a number of constituent services, and was elected to the Springfield City Council last November.
“I’m a single dad, and my daughter just turned 9, so one of my priorities is education, and access to education equality,” he said. “My biggest motivation in doing what I do is providing a better future for my child and the other children in the city.”
That said, when Ramos considers Springfield, he sees a city on the rise, despite its challenges. “I love the way our future looks right now, with so many businesses willing to invest in our city. People are excited about what the future holds for Springfield.”
In other words, it’s a city worth fighting for.
— Joseph Bednar
Owner, Beyond Green Construction, age 39
They’re called ‘deep energy retrofits.’
That’s the name that’s been assigned to projects that bring 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century buildings into the 21st century, at least when it comes to energy efficiency and ‘green’ practices. And that adjective ‘deep’ means that these endeavors go much further than conventional energy retrofits, and they achieve far greater energy savings.
Such retrofits have become a growing component of the portfolio for Easthampton-based Beyond Green Construction, a venture that founder and owner Sean Jeffords, the highest scorer in this year’s 40 Under Forty competition, has positioned for solid growth as demand continues to soar for reduced greenhouse-gas emissions and more clean-energy production for both residential and commercial buildings.
“I have a passion for wanting to be able to give homeowners options in the new landscape we live in, where we’re trying to reduce energy consumption,” said Jeffords, who has long had a fascination with historic-building restoration, and thus opted to focus his company’s energies on the huge inventory of older buildings rather than new construction.
“There’s a huge opportunity when it comes to the existing infrastructure,” he told BusinessWest. “We’ve got a lot of old Colonials around here, and people are spending tons of money shivering with multiple sweaters on. They don’t know what they can do, and many times there are inherent mold problems at the same time. We can give them a healthier, more efficient home.”
Jeffords’ growing reputation has earned him some airtime on the Discovery Channel’s Renovation Nation, among many other media outlets, and he’s taken home several awards, including the Green Giant Award from the local chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council. But he said his greatest reward is helping home and business owners find solutions to their energy and air-quality programs and become much more green and energy-efficient in the process.
And while such work is his business, it is also his passion, and he is eager to share his knowledge within the community. He partnered with Greenfield Community College in 2008, for example, to spearhead the development of the Western Mass. Green Consortium, an organization focused on connecting tradespeople, homeowners, business owners, and municipalities to new building-science information and networking opportunities.
Jeffords’ most recent voluntary focus is developing a trades alliance called ProjectRetroFIT, an envisioned partner to the NorthEast Sustainable Energy Assoc., advocating for high-performing buildings, while acting as a platform and resource association for tradespeople.
— George O’Brien
Director of Facilities Planning & Engineering, Baystate Health, age 38
Sean Gouvin remembers feeling really good, physically and otherwise, when he crossed the finish line at last April’s Boston Marathon.
“I was running strong in miles 18 to 26, which generally doesn’t happen,” said Gouvin, who has run the event 15 times, usually with Griffin’s Friends in support of Baystate Children’s Hospital. “And it was an incredibly beautiful day.”
But then, as he and his three children were sitting on a curb enjoying the sun, the crowd, the energy, and the moment, two explosions that they could hear but not see turned that beautiful day on its ear.
“It was like watching time stand still,” he recalled, noting that, after the blasts, there was silence for several seconds, then things went back to normal. “It was maybe 15 or 20 minutes before everyone fully realized what happened, and then the shock and the horror started setting in on people.”
Like many, Gouvin said, he was thankful he didn’t cross the finish line moments later, but also more thankful, and appreciative, of everything he has in his life. That includes his family, his soccer coaching, his work within the community, and a broad and quite rewarding job with Baystate Health.
It takes a lot of words to describe what he does as director of Facilities Planning & Engineering, so perhaps it’s all best summed up with a number: 4 million. That’s the number of square feet in all the facilities within the vast Baystate Health real-estate portfolio.
And it’s Gouvin’s responsibility to lead the team that essentially manages it all, handling planning, design, construction, and maintenance for buildings that range from the nearly century-old Springfield Building on the grounds of Baystate Medical Center to the recently opened Hospital of the Future just a few feet away.
It’s a huge job, one that ensures that there’s no such thing as a typical day, which is perhaps what he likes most about it.
“It’s different each day, so every day you have to be on,” he explained. “And with each day comes a new challenge. Thankfully, I’ve got a really great team. You’ve got to have a group of people that fit together extremely well to be effective in this environment, and we have that.”
— George O’Brien
The following business incorporations were recorded in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties and are the latest available. They are listed by community.
Agawam
F. Fusco Inc., 384 Walnut St. Ext., Agawam, MA 01001. Anthony F. Grassetti Sr., 32 Alexander Dr., Agawam, MA 01001. Retail sales of liquor, beer, wine, food, and meals.
Inspired Marketing Inc., 168 Elm St. Ste. B-10, Agawam, MA 01001. Jill Christine Monson, 86 Russell St., Springfield, MA 01004. Marketing and event planning.
MyEcigs Inc., 154 Beekman Dr., Agawam, MA 01001. Joseph M. Rondolettom, same. Retail sale of E-Cigarettes.
Amherst
Pita Pocket Inc., 5 Eaton Court, Amherst, MA 01002. George Ejja, same. Fast food and vegetarian food restaurant.
Chicopee
Inteliface Solutions Inc., 50 Austin St., Chicopee, MA 01013. Paul P. Barrasso, 23 Belgrade St., Revere, MA 02151. Biotechnical software and applications.
LC Corporation, 472 Burnett Road, Chicopee, MA 01020. Laurie A. Kareta, PO Box 295, Ludlow, MA 01056. Hair styling salon and spa.
Granby
RJ’s Outdoor Power Inc., 6 West State St., Granby, MA 01033. Robert W. Jennings, 116 Dixie Terrace, Chicopee, MA 01020. Engine-powered equipment repair.
Great Barrington
Fiddleheads Grille Inc., 252 Park St., Great Barrington, MA 01230. David Michael Pullaro, same. Restaurant.
Great Barrington Auto Supply Inc., 227 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington, MA 01230. Anthony S. Lioy, same. Retail/wholesale auto parts.
Holyoke
One Stop Technology Inc., 4 Open Square Way, Ste. 120, Holyoke, MA 01040. Robert L. Albrecht, 667 West Cherry St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Computer technology.
Longmeadow
Express Flooring Inc., 551 Williams St., Longmeadow, MA 01106. James R. Beach, same. Flooring services.
Jag Geriatrics, P.C., 15 Pendleton Lane, Longmeadow, MA 01106. Udaya Banu Jagedeesan, 46 Center Square, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Geriatric medical services.
Pittsfield
Burrito Grande Inc., 37 North St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Samir Abdallah, same. Restaurant.
David L. DeGiorgis Wood Craftsman Inc., 418 ½ West Housatonic St., Pittsfield, MA 01021. David L. DeGiorgis, 71 Thomas Island Road, Pittsfield, MA 01021. Construction contracting.
FBR Painting Corp., 18 Copley Terrace, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Fabiano Robadel, same. Painting.
DOING BUSINESS AS CERTIFICATES
The following Business Certificates and Trade Names were issued or renewed during the month of and March 2014.
AGAWAM
Alexa McCabe Esthetician
833 Springfield St.
Alexa McCabe
Allure Med Spa
159 Main St.
Mary Jo Carruthers
Crafty Cookie
1226 Springfield St.
Angela Jordan
Gregory’s
50 Kanawha Ave.
Gregory Ruge
JK Deliveries
29 Sutton Place
Jason Kendall
Tiffany M. Smith Realty
814 South West St.
Tiffany M. Smith
CHICOPEE
Ear 2 Track
1 Springfield St.
James Kometani
Gauron Provision
576 Fuller Road
William Guaron
Lilly Photography
254 Frontenac St.
Stephanie Knoll
The Spa at Stoney Brook
477 Britton St.
Marci Ryder
GREENFIELD
Absolutely Fabulous Hair
305 Wells St.
Jodi Kocsis
Chinese Bodywork
41 Main St.
Qing J. Luo
Hair Affairs
30 Mohawk Trail
Joshua Candelaria
MJM Aviation
108 Hastings St.
Michael McIntyre
Re-bath of Pioneer Valley
6 French Kings Highway
PV Bathrooms Inc.
Sketch Design
30 Warner St.
Matthew Beaudoin
HOLYOKE
Giggles Daycare
53 Argyle Ave.
Siobhan M. Sullivan
Ind Court Deli Mart
301 High St.
Roberto Rivera
Lalla Jolie Scarves & Accessories
97 Franklin St.
Lalla B. Ornan
Mr. Mold Finder
12 Arbor Way
Arthur Marshall
PALMER
Menard Garage Doors, LLC
1020 Central St.
Brenda Menard
Rainbow Gardens
3023 Foster St.
Nancy Golas
Ziggy Enterprises
1029 Park St.
Christiane Torchia
SPRINGFIELD
5 Star DJ Alliance
49 Nursery St.
Myrtho Lambert
A-One Mini Mart
431 White St.
Mohammad R. Awan
Acceptance Now
665 Boston Road
Rac Acceptance
B & D Dollar & Discount
494 Central St.
Louis Brantley
BPM Installations
22 Geneva St.
Brian P. Marceau
B.L. Cleaning Service
93 Duggan Circle
William E. Lowe
Bio Cleaner of Main Street
806 Main St.
Jong N. Joo
Chi Chi Sullivans
520 Sumner Ave.
Sarno Enterprises
City Beat Multimedia
70 Cornell St.
Anthony S. Bass
Ci Leigha
183 Maynard St.
Ci L. Woods
Dan Auto Sales
201 Berkshire Ave.
Daniel Rios
Durraingd Myndz Entertainment
1139 Sumner Ave.
Hector Emilio
EZ Services & Travel
16 ½ Longhill St.
Ricardo Del Valle
El Shaddai Daycare
70 Leete St.
Helen J. Salem
Express Grocery
1133 State St.
Gavy G. Pimentel
Felix’s Breakfast
67 Liberty St.
Lesbia I. Nieves
Fred Sellica Travel
672 Dickinson St.
Fred P. Sellica
Hampshire Hills Inc.
620 Page Blvd.
Hampshire Hills
Hunter Kelly Entertainment
76 Greene St.
Lamara S. Hunter
WESTFIELD
Alexander Ruge Trend Sound
356 Valley View Dr.
Alexander Ruge
Allied Logging
167 Prospect St.
Adam Roberts
Comp Control Inc.
7 Pineridge Ave.
James O’Neill
Danis Promotion
45 Northridge Road
Danis Slivca
Eastwood Self Storage
61 Union St.
Ronald Schortmann
GDM
111 Airport Road
Michelle Grassi
I Zing Thing
22 Elm St.
Suzanne A. Tracy
WEST SPRINGFIELD
A and J’s Used Auto Sales
44 Exposition Terrace
Julio A. Miranda
DMP Supply Company Inc.
21 Bramble Ave.
Donald Del Buono
Green Stone
34 Lewis Ave.
Sami Hajrizi
Neverlow Apparel
119 Highland Ave.
Jonathan Karas
Pho B6 Vietnamese Cuisine
764 Riverdale St.
John Huang
Picture Awards Inc.
871 Elm St.
Joseph J. Esile, Jr.
Scuderi Group Inc.
1111 Elm St.
Salvatore Scuderi
T-Shirt Station
1458 Riverdale St.
2P Designs, LLC
The Vape Bar Escape
209 Elm St.
Maria Filippone
AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• April 9: ACCGS Lunch N Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Lattitude Restaurant, 1388 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring “The Art of the Brand,” presented by Mary McCarthy of Andrew Associates. Attendees will learn the core elements of successful branding and the necessary building blocks that should be put in place in order to ensure that your brand successfully conveys meaningful messages that resonate with your customers or audience. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission, and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• April 30: Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by state Sen. Gale Candaras. Spend a day at the State House and hear from key legislators, members of the Patrick administration in its final months in office, and our local delegation. Reservations are $180 and include transportation, lunch at the Union Club, and a wrap-up reception at the 21st Amendment. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700
• April 9: Chamber Breakfast, “The Power of Video,” 7:15-9 a.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott, 423 Russell St., Hadley. Learn about using videos to promote your business. Sponsored by Epic Filmmakers. Cost is $15 for members, $20 for non-members.
• April 23: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., at Western MA Family Golf Center, 294 Russell St., Hadley. Cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
• April 16: April Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Kittredge Center at Holyoke Community College. Tickets: $20 for members, $26 for non-members.
• April 16: April Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at the Residence Inn by Marriott. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for non-members.
GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• April 10: Networking by Night, 5:30 p.m. More details to follow. RSVP appreciated. Contact us at (413) 527-9414 or [email protected]. Tickets are $5 for members, $15 for future members.
• May 02: Wine & Microbrew Tasting, 6 p.m., at Wyckoff Country Club. Unfamiliar with wines? Looking for the perfect wine for dinner? You’ve had the Wente Merlot and Chardonnay, but want to try the St. Michelle Riesling? Well, then, step up to the tasting bar. All of our guests (21 years of age and older) are welcome and encouraged to enjoy samples of more than 42 unique grape and fruit wines. Not interested in wine? That’s OK, because we have a microbrew tasting going on for you, too. One location, one price. Every year the event has grown. Tickets are $35 in advance or $40 at the door.
GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900
• April 10: Seminar, “Art of Small Business,” first in a three-part series, 9-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Don Lesser of Pioneer Training. Tickets: $20 for members, $25 for guests. Registration is required due to limited space.
• April 21: Seminar, “Art of Small Business,” second in a three-part series, 8:30- 9:30 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Tina Stevens of Stevens 470. The program is free, but registration is required due to limited space.
• May 2: Spring Swizzle: Chamber Auction with a Twist! Hosted by Eastside Grill, 18 Strong Ave., Northampton, from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Presenting sponsor: Cooley Dickinson Hospital. The 21st auction has a whole new look. This private party is the chamber’s first and best social of the spring, an auction that showcases chamber members, and a night to dress up and step out for dinner to die for and music to swizzle to. Proceeds from the auction help the chamber keep membership affordable and offer a rich program of benefits for members and the community. Cost: $75, or $100 at the door. To order tickets, contact Esther at (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].
• May 7: Arrive@ 5, 5-7 p.m., at King & Cushman Inc.; 176 King St., Northampton. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage Services Corp., King Autobody, and Goggins Real Estate. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at [email protected].
• June 4: Arrive@ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Black Birch Vineyard. Sponsored by Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, the Creative, and viz-bang! Cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at [email protected].
GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
• April 7: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Renaissance Manor, 37 Feeding Hills Road, Westfield. The GWCC invites you to have coffee with Mayor Daniel Knapik in a very informal setting. Hear first-hand from the mayor about key issues and get an update on construction projects. The mayor also welcomes any questions or concerns you may have. Free, informative, and open to the pubic. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• April 9: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Czar Energy, 53 North Elm St., Westfield. Don’t forget your business cards. Great connection opportunities. Bring a prospective new member for free. Members: advertise your business with a table top for $50. Hors d’oeuvres served. Walk-ins welcome. Haven’t been to an After 5? Your first one is free. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members (cash at the door). To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• April 30: Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Hosted by state Sen. Gale Candaras. Spend a day at the State House and hear from key legislators and members of the Patrick administration in its final months in office. Cost: $180, which includes bus, lunch, and reception. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880
• April 16: Networking Lunch, hosted by Cal’s, 12-1:30 p.m. Must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost is lunch; attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].
The following is a compilation of recent lawsuits involving area businesses and organizations. These are strictly allegations that have yet to be proven in a court of law. Readers are advised to contact the parties listed, or the court, for more information concerning the individual claims.
FRANKLIN SUPERIOR COURT
Carol Kestyn v. Green Acres, LLC and PCE Management Co. Inc.
Allegation: Negligent maintenance of carpet in the common area causing trip and fall: $250,000
Filed: 2/18/14
Marcia Vincent v. Mackin Construction Co., and ABC Corp.
Allegation: Failure to properly remove and treat accumulated snow causing injury: $487,500
Filed: 2/25/14
HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT
Cheyda Rodriguez v. Premier Education Group, LP, William Anjos, and Paul Ferrise
Allegation: FMLA interference and retaliation: $36,630
Filed: 2/28/14
Commerce and Industry Insurance Co. v. C.D.A. Roofing and Siding Contractors Inc.
Allegation: Non-payment on services rendered: $41,780
Filed: 2/21/14
Preferred Mutual Insurance Co. a/s/o Jose Santos v. Alves Fuels Inc.
Allegation: Defendant negligently overfilled fuel oil tank and pumped fuel into the plaintiff’s home: $59,021.71
Filed: 2/19/14
Ryder Truck Rental Inc. v. Souse Seafood Inc.
Allegation: Breach of vehicle lease agreement: $27,403.44
Filed: 2/24/14
Western Mass Electric Co. v. Videll Healthcare Springside, LLC
Allegation: Non-payment of goods sold and delivered: $118,409.33
Filed: 2/20/14
SPRINGFIELD DISTRICT COURT
Adam Farnum v. Windalier Springdale Mall, LLC
Allegation: Slip and fall causing injury: $14,440
Filed: 2/4/14
Bernardo A. Sanchez Jr. v. Town Fair Tire
Allegation: Plaintiff sustained injuries when hit by a scissor lift, which was operated by an employee of the defendant: $13,077.10
Filed: 2/19/14
Juan Wollmershauser v. The Mercy Hospital Inc.
Allegation: Plaintiff was struck in the face by an automated door: $14,651.37
Filed: 2/14/14
Chicopee Is Well-positioned for Economic Growth
Mayor Richard Kos says Chicopee’s transportation infrastructure, diverse mix of businesses, and abundance of available building sites all contribute to its economic stability.
“The city’s insignia is ‘Industraie Variae,’ and Chicopee has a variety of industries that show the breadth of its diversity and help it to weather economic storms,” the mayor told BusinessWest.
Four major highways — Interstates 90, 91, 291, and 391 — exit into Chicopee, and state roads, including Routes 33, 116, and 141, connect to the city’s six neighborhoods, or communities — Chicopee Center (Cabotville), Chicopee Falls, Willimansett, Fairview, Aldenville, and Burnett Road.
Kos, who was mayor from 1997 to 2004 and took office again in January, said his goal is to help Chicopee realize its full potential, especially in its business parks and sections of the city that have not seen much growth in recent years.
Kenn Delude, president and CEO of Westmass Area Development Corp., cites the Chicopee River Business Park as an example of an area poised for development. The park, built on the grounds of the former Oxford Country Club and Springfield Rifle Range, is located at the intersection of I-90 and I-291, and contains plots that vary in size and could be used for office space and/or manufacturing.
“The park contains 147 acres and has fully permitted sites for sale that are complete with utilities,” Delude said, adding that 826,000 square feet of space has been pre-permitted, and incentives are available for qualified businesses. “The sites range from 15,000 to 45,000 square feet, although we could accommodate up to 100,000 square feet. The infrastructure is there, the prices are appropriate, and Westmass will handle the permitting.”
Kos said the industrial park was developed in cooperation with Springfield and contains land in both cities. Infrastructure grants have totaled $4.2 million, but growth has been slow over the past 12 years, and a streamlined permitting process has been created to promote development.
Delude told BusinessWest that many other areas of Chicopee are also rife with opportunity. “Chicopee has existing buildings that are available and ready for occupancy. There is also potential for new construction, and at the same time, the city continues to accumulate land and develop Air Park South,” he said.
The park contains about 80 acres of vacant land acquired from the city by Westover Metropolitan Development Corp. It is located between Burnett Road, Chicopee Municipal Airport, and the Chicopee River Business Park.
In addition, Economic Development Manager Tom Haberlin says there are a number of buildings for sale that were erected in the ’80s and ’90s and are good buys. “They’re available for 25 cents on the dollar in terms of market rate, and can be retrofitted for manufacturing for less than it would cost to build something new.”
For this issue’s Community Spotlight, Kos, Delude, Haberlin, and other city officials talked with BusinessWest at length about opportunities for new business, as well as about firms that recently moved to Chicopee or have chosen to expand and relocate their enterprises within the city’s boundaries.
“My transition team has helped to identify opportunities for economic development,” Kos said.
Future Growth
An exciting development is slated to take place at Westover Air Reserve Base. In addition to the fact that the Great New England Air Show will be staged there again this year, fears that the base could be closed due to military cutbacks have been relieved, thanks to recently passed legislation.
Kenn Delude, left, and Lee Pouliot say new hangars for corporate use at Westover Air Reserve Base will mitigate the cost of running the base and add to the city’s economic vitality.
“The public/private investment will enhance Westover and mitigate its costs,” said Kos. “This is the first time that a state has made an investment in a federal military facility, and it reflects the commitment of the community to withstand base closures.”
The city, MassDevelopment, and Western Mass. Development Corp. will be involved in the project, and city officials hope it will lead to an aviation-repair program in Chicopee Comprehensive High School’s Career Education Development division.
Another newsworthy development is the renovation of 150,000 square feet in a building on Champion Drive that was home to the packaging manufacturer RockTenn and sat empty after the corporation closed its Chicopee operation five years ago. The space will be occupied by the German firm Menck Windows.
“They chose to locate here because of the workforce and the city’s ability to train students at Chicopee Comprehensive High School for high-level precision-manufacturing jobs,” Kos said.
The mayor added that the manufacturer was impressed by the school’s vocational-training program and the fact that the city is willing to work closely with them.
“Chicopee has a long history of being supportive of businesses and job creation, and tax incentives helped this as well,” he continued. “Menck looked at more than 20 sites in Western Mass. before they chose our city. This will be their first manufacturing operation in the U.S.”
The business is expected to open in June and will create 50 new jobs.
Haberlin spoke about another success story that involves the manufacturer Lymtech Scientific. “They had offers to move south, but chose stay in Chicopee when they decided to expand their Cabotville operation. They purchased a building at the entrance to Westover and made a substantial investment, which was underwritten by the city and Mass Development,” he said. “The building was ready, so it was cost-effective. They built a clean room and, as a result, have grown quickly.”
Delude added that MicroTek, which is located in Westover Air Park West, is yet another firm that opted to remain in Chicopee when it decided to expand its 24,000-square-foot operation housed in a building on Justin Road.
“They looked at sites everywhere, but wanted to stay in the city,” he said. “They purchased a 55,000-square-foot building in the park.”
To add to the mix, T.J.Maxx has become a tenant in Air Park West. “They expanded from 55,000 square feet to 100,000 square feet,” Kos said. “So staying put is moving forward for a lot of our businesses.”
The mayor said one of Chicopee’s assets is the fact that it’s a data crossroads. “When the Mass Turnpike was redone, new data lines were installed, which is important for businesses that need a lot of capacity.”
In another section of the city, a development known as Chicopee Crossing is taking shape. The Residence Inn by Marriott opened in the complex on Memorial Drive, and Buffalo Wild Wings recently won preliminary approval from the city council to build a restaurant with a liquor license there.
Economic growth continues to occur along that busy thoroughfare. In February, Chick-fil-A opened beside Aldi’s supermarket, and the former IHOP Restaurant, which sat empty for a decade, has become the second McDonald’s restaurant along Memorial Drive.
In other areas of the city, the Collegian Court restaurant, a landmark establishment, reopened last year after being closed for seven years, and the Munich Haus also expanded and added a beer garden with 60 seats, Haberlin said.
Meanwhile, the city also continues to make water and sewer infrastructure improvements, and a $9 million bond has been approved by the City Council to install a second water line to the Quabbin Reservoir, which is the source of Chicopee’s water supply. In addition, the city’s sewer-separation project is scheduled to be complete by June 2015. “It will have addressed 80% of the combined-sewer-overflow issue,” Kos said.
Renewal is also taking place in Chicopee Center at Ames Privilege Apartments. The units are located in a former Civil War foundry that made swords and cannons on 1 Springfield St. But half of them were never opened because the city condemned a portion of the building in 1988 due to weakened support beams, and those apartments sat vacant for 20 years, Haberlin said.
But MassHousing closed on an $8 million loan last summer to allow the developer to renovate 94 occupied apartments and completely restore the 40 units that have never been rented. An additional $1 million was provided by the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and funding also came from the the city itself and private investments. “We’ll finally see a project that was started in the ’80s brought to completion,” Haberlin said.
Future Outlook
Moving forward, Kos said the city has much more going for it than its location. There is momentum, land, a business-friendly City Hall, and a large legislative delegation — four state representatives and three state senators — that makes sure the city gets attention from the Commonwealth.
“As we move forward, it is important to recognize Chicopee’s strengths, which include its location, its competitive tax rate, the quality of its utilities, and the benefit of having its own municipal electric supplier,” said the mayor. “I plan to make sure that public and private economic developers, as well as the city team, interconnect on a regular basis so their skill sets enhance their ability and knowledge.”
Which is, indeed, a surefire recipe for success.
Chicopee at a glance
Year Incorporated: 1848
Population: 55,298 (2010); 54,653 (2000)
Area: 23.9 square miles
County: Hampden
Residential Tax Rate: 16.51
Commercial Tax Rate: 29.60
Median Household Income: $35,672
Family Household Income: $44,136
Type of government: Mayor, City Council
Largest employers: Westover Air Reserve Base, J. Polep Distribution Services, Avery Dennison Corp., Callaway Golf Ball Operations Inc., Microtek Inc.
* Latest information available
Ladies Landscaping Enjoys Steady Regional Growth
Women run the show and do most of the labor at Ladies Landscaping.
As it turned out, she was already helping two friends — Tiffany Brunelle and James Brink, who both worked for Mountain View Landscapes and Lawncare in Chicopee — do landscaping jobs for family members and friends on the side. They liked working together and decided to launch their own business.
“I realized that I really enjoyed doing that more than selling real estate,” she said, adding that the skills necessary for each career aren’t mutually exclusive. “I’ve always been a visual person — everything for me is very visual. When I sold real estate, I could walk into a house and picture it all redone and figure out what it would cost somebody to redo it. I took that with me — but now I can design very intricate patios, things like that.”
The three partners — Demers and Brunelle are currently co-owners of the South Hadley-based firm, while Brink still works for the company — named their venture Ladies Landscaping. And for good reason.
“It’s primarily women, and a couple of men; women are doing the actual labor,” Demers said. “Tiffany runs all the equipment — bobcats, excavators. And we hit the ground running.”
Perhaps surprisingly so. In their first year, 2007, the partners picked up numerous clients right away, and they’ve tripled their annual revenue since then.
“When we started, we didn’t have any money; we borrowed money from a friend to buy our first pickup truck, and we paid him back in one month,” Demers said. “From there, we just grew. We have five trucks, two bobcats, four trailers. It’s crazy.”
At its seasonal peak, the company employs about seven people, most of whom have been around from the beginning, or close to it.
“We do patios, fireplaces, retaining walls, sprinkler systems, plantings, fence installs, lawns — we’re capable of doing just about anything,” she said, adding that Amherst College is the company’s most consistent client, accounting for about one-third of its work. It also recently renovated the outdoor space at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House in Holyoke. To stay busy in the winter, the crew typically flips a house. “They can do everything except plumbing and electrical. We also plow in the winter.”
Learning Curve
Demers took her new career seriously when she joined her partners in more than a side hobby. “They were both good at it — they were phenomenal — but when I became interested, I learned, I went to classes, just to get the structural things down, make sure I was doing everything correctly. I always had the visual part of it.”
So she has a particular satisfaction in seeing a job completed.
“For me, the best thing is the end result we get to see on a daily basis. Something as simple as going and pruning somebody’s shrubs, mulching beds — the difference from when we get there to when we leave eight hours later is substantial. Every day, we get to accomplish something we can actually see.”
Ladies Landscaping has one crew that does only construction and another that does only maintenance.
“The construction crew is always very busy, patio after patio after patio,” Demers said, adding that features like firepits and water structures have been, and remain, popular. And that scratches her creative itch. “I get excited when someone wants a waterfall — not for monetary reasons, but because building a waterfall comes completely from my mind. I can’t draw it; I can’t say this rock’s going to be here, and this rock’s going to be here. And every single one is different.”
Demers doesn’t do as much as labor as she used to, but she visits the company’s job sites constantly to make sure everything is proceeding smoothly. “I approach the job like I’m the homeowner — I check in the morning, then the afternoon, so I know what questions the homeowner may ask when they come home, and I can say, ‘yes, this will happen tomorrow, and everything is going to be fine.’
“I think that’s the difference with us,” she added. “Not just that we’re primarily women, but that I really will come onto every job. I might see something that could look even better than it was originally designed, and I’ll make a change for no other reason than the customer gets the best function and the best aesthetics in that space. That’s really the most important thing for me.”
Like other lansdscape-design firm owners, Demers has noticed a trend over the past decade toward people investing in their houses and yards, trying to create a getaway feel without having to leave home.
“People have lived in these houses 15 or 20 years, and they want to spruce things up, do a whole makeover,” she noted. “That’s probably my favorite thing to do — come in and do the whole thing, and a week and a half later, there’s a new lawn, a sprinkler system, new plantings, a new patio in back, and the whole house is kind of brought to life.”
That kind of transformation is worth it for a homeowner who might need several weekends to accomplish what professionals can do in a few days.
“A patio that may take someone a week takes us a day and a half,” she told BusinessWest. “The same crew has been working together for many years; they’re all paid exceptionally well, and they’re worth it. They work hard, and they’re all very skilled. Honestly, I feel like they could work anywhere. They’re fast, efficient, and then, at the same time, very detail-oriented.”
Lawn Order
Demers said she and Brunelle feel fortunate about how far Ladies Landscaping has come, noting that hardly felt the effects of the recent recession.
“At the same time, we work very hard to accomplish it, and we work for great clients. I can pick who we work for at this point; that’s how lucky we are.”
In addition to a commercial workload that’s dotted with repeat customers, like Amherst College, “we still do patios and residences constantly. We have a bunch lined up for the year.
“I feel like, if we keep doing good, quality work, we’re going to always be busy,” she added. “There have been so many points where I feel like, if I had four times the people working for me now, I could keep them all busy. But I’ll never do that. I feel like I’ll lose control of the quality. I see everything we do; I’m there every day, stopping by to check on everything.”
And she couldn’t be happier doing so.
“I couldn’t ever imaging myself sitting in an office job every day,” Demers said. “I want to be here, there, and everywhere.”
Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]
