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Special Coverage Super 60

Super 60 Honorees Impact Region in Many Ways

Dozens of area companies will be honored by the Springfield Regional Chamber in its 36th annual Super 60 Awards Program.

This year, the chamber received more than 100 nominations in five categories, one of the largest pools in the program’s history, showcasing the strength and diversity of the local business community.

The 2025 Super 60 winners represent industries across Western Mass., including healthcare, education, finance, manufacturing, dining, and more. The program recognizes excellence in five core categories: Revenue, Growth, Start-Up, Give Back, and Non-Profit. Each category celebrates a distinct measure of success, from sustained financial performance and rapid expansion to community impact and innovation.

In addition, the chamber will present its first-ever Legacy Award, recognizing an organization with deep and lasting contributions to the region’s economic and community vitality. The inaugural honor will go to Balise Motor Sales Co., a family-owned business founded in 1919 when Paul Balise began repairing farm equipment and automobiles from his backyard garage in Hatfield.

What started as a small local operation grew into one of New England’s largest automotive retailers under the leadership of three generations of the Balise family. Now headquartered in Springfield, Balise employs more than 1,400 people across Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Cape Cod.

“Super 60 is about more than business success; it’s about recognizing the people and organizations whose work uplifts our community and creates opportunities for throughout our region,” said Diana Szynal, president and CEO of the Springfield Regional Chamber. “This year’s honorees exemplify the strength and resilience that define Western Massachusetts. I’m especially proud to introduce our new Legacy Award, honoring Balise Motor Sales Co. for more than a century of adaptability, growth, and community impact.”

The 2025 Super 60 Awards Luncheon will take place on Friday, Nov. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. The event will feature Jessika Rozki, founder of Rozki Rides LLC, as the keynote speaker, and the WWLP Morning Team — Kaelee Collins, Julia O’Keefe, and Chris Bouzakis — as emcees.

Tickets for the event can be purchased online at springfieldregionalchamber.com/super60. The cost is $75 for members and $85 for non-members. Tables of 10 can also be reserved. The event attracts more than 500 business leaders each year.

2025
Revenue Winners


Baltazar Contractors Inc.
Braman Chemical Enterprises Inc.
Campora Construction Co. Inc.
The Dowd Agencies LLC
Edward F. Corcoran Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc.
Fontaine Brothers Inc.
Freedom Credit Union
Harry Grodsky & Co. Inc.
Keiter Corp.
L&C Prescription Inc.
Marcotte Ford Sales Inc.
Maybury Associates Inc.
Patriot Property Management Group
Saloomey Construction Inc.
Tighe & Bond Inc.

2025
Growth Winners


Baltazar Contractors Inc.
Braman Chemical Enterprises Inc.
Campora Construction Co. Inc.
The Dowd Agencies LLC
Edward F. Corcoran Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc.
Fontaine Brothers Inc.
Keiter Corp.
L&C Prescription Inc.
Ludlow Eye Associates, P.C.
Marcotte Ford Sales Inc.
Monty’s Motorsports LLC
Patriot Property Management Group
RE/MAX Connections
Saloomey Construction Inc.
Tighe & Bond Inc.

2025
Start-Up Winners


Caring Medical Staffing LLC
Gleason Realty Group
K. Ebner Creative
The Latest Kraez
Wash Works Laundry Services

2025
Give Back
Winners


413 Elite Professional Basketball Team
All States Materials Group
The Fontaine Community Foundation Inc.
Keiter Corp.
Lock and Key Realty
Marcotte Ford Sales Inc.
MGM Springfield
Monarch Fore Charities
Realistic CEO
Springfield Hockey LLC

2025
Non-Profit
Winners


Access Care Partners
Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield
Clinical & Support Options
Cutchins Programs for Children and Families Inc.
The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts
Forest Park Zoological Society Inc.
Hampden County Career Center Inc.
Hampden County Sheriff’s Workforce Initiative
Mental Health Assoc. Inc.
Rachel’s Table of Western
Massachusetts Inc.
Second Chance Animal Services
Springfield Partners for Community
Action Inc.
Sunshine Village Inc.
Work Opportunity Center Inc.
YMCA of Greater Springfield

REVENUE

Baltazar Contractors Inc.
83 Carmelinas Circle, Ludlow, MA 01056
(413) 583-6160
www.baltazarcontractors.com
Paulo Baltazar, President
Baltazar Contractors is a heavy civil construction company with services in utility construction, roadway construction, site work and development, culvert and bridge construction, earth support and shoring, and trenchless technology. The company has remained family-owned over three decades in business.

Braman Chemical Enterprises Inc.
147 Almgren Dr., Agawam 01001
(413) 732-9009
www.braman.biz
Gerald Lazarus, President
Braman has been serving New England since 1890, using state-of-the-art pest-elimination procedures for commercial and residential customers, and offering humane removal of birds, bats, and other nuisances through its wildlife division. The company has offices in Agawam, Worcester, and Lee, as well as Hartford and New Haven, Conn.

Campora Construction Co. Inc.
43 Owens Way, Ludlow, MA 01056
(413) 610-1660
www.camporacc.com
Mario Campora, President
Campora Construction specializes in full-scale building construction and sidewalk, patio, and driveway installation for residential, commercial, and governmental projects. Services include custom home design and construction, complete home rebuilds from fire damage, home additions and sunroom installation, concrete demolition and infills, and commercial office fit-outs.

The Dowd Agencies LLC
14 Bobala Road, Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 538-7444
www.dowd.com
John Dowd Jr., President
Founded in 1898, the Dowd Agencies is the oldest insurance agency under continuous family ownership, and one of the most long-standing, experienced insurance agencies in Massachusetts. Its staff includes fully licensed and certified insurance and financial services agents and brokers in Holyoke, Hadley, Southampton, Indian Orchard, and Ludlow.

Edward F. Corcoran Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc.
5 Rose Place, Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 732-1462
www.efcorcoran.com
Brian Toomey, President
E.F. Corcoran Plumbing & Heating is a full-service plumbing and HVAC contractor, offering 24-hour plumbing services, HVAC installation, gas piping, boilers, heat recovery, and more. It serves the commercial, industrial, medical, and institutional industries and has performed work for Baystate Noble Hospital, Springfield College, UMass, Mercy Medical Center, and Stop & Shop.

Fontaine Brothers Inc.
510 Cottage St., Springfield, Massachusetts 01104
(413) 781-2020
www.fontainebros.com
David Fontaine Jr., CEO
Family-owned and operated for 91 years, Fontaine Bros. offers services such as general contracting, with a focus on K-12 schools, higher education, commercial properties, historical renovations, and municipal work, as well as construction management. As one of New England’s original green builders, it has expertise in building sustainably and responsibly for all kinds of projects.

Freedom Credit Union
1976 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 739-6961
www.freedom.coop
Glenn Welch, President and CEO
Freedom Credit Union is a credit union that offers banking and loan services to businesses, the cannabis industry, and individuals. It also offers insurance plans for individuals and an investment-services division. The institution celebrated its centennial in 2022 and regularly involves customers and the community in philanthropic outreach.

Harry Grodsky & Co. Inc.
33 Shaws Lane, Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 785-1947
www.grodsky.com
Dave Streeter, President
Harry Grodsky & Co. delivers design; construction; service, repairs, and maintenance; energy solutions; and more, offering a full range of customized services and project delivery methods including traditional bid, design build, design assist, and integrated project delivery. It also maintains a workplace culture of community involvement, with employees actively and financially involved in a wide range of area nonprofits.

Keiter Corp.
1 Interstate Drive, West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 586-8600
www.keiter.com
Scott Keiter, President
Keiter Corp. is a construction-services company working with clients on residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional projects of all sizes. The firm is divided into four divisions: Keiter Builders (commercial and institutional construction), Keiter Homes (residential construction), Hatfield Construction (excavation, site work, and structural concrete), and Keiter Properties (real estate and rental).

L&C Prescriptions Inc.
155 Brookdale Dr., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 781-2996
www.medibubble.com
Dr. Kara James, President
L&C Prescription, the parent company for Louis & Clark Pharmacy, provides medication solutions to individuals, healthcare providers, and assisted-living, independent-living, and memory-care communities, and offers online prescription refills, MediBubble pre-packaged pills, blister packs to manage daily medications, vial synchronization, consultations with registered pharmacists, and a delivery service.

Marcotte Ford Sales Inc.
1025 Main St., Holyoke
(413) 536-1900
www.marcotteford.com
Mike Marcotte, President
The dealership sells new Ford vehicles as well as pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs, and features a full service department, including a mobile service operation that comes to customers for basic maintenance and recall servicing. Marcotte has achieved Ford’s President’s Award multiple occasions over the past decade. It also operates the Marcotte Commercial Truck Center.

Maybury Associates Inc.
90 Denslow Road, East Longmeadow
(888) 629-2879
www.maybury.com
William Maybury, President
A one-source provider of quality industrial products and services to manufacturing, distribution, and warehousing customers, Maybury Associates designs, supplies, and services a wide variety of handling equipment throughout New England and provides customers in a wide range of industries with solutions to move, lift, and store their parts and products.

Patriot Property Management Group
268 Cold Spring Ave., Suite B, West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 707-4434
www.patriotpmg.com
Marc Murphy, President
Patriot Property Management Group is a real estate company that assists clients in the Western Mass. region with a variety of services, including buying, selling, rental assistance, property management, and more. President Marc Murphy also helms Lock and Key Realty, which is honored in this year’s Super 60 in the Give Back category.

Saloomey Construction Inc.
62B School St., Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 269-4360
www.saloomey-construction.com
Michael O’Brien, President
For more than 40 years, Saloomey Construction has built a strong reputation in both new construction and renovation work, including commercial and residential development, historic renovations, medical facilities, marijuana growing facilities, schools, student housing, senior housing, churches, and much more. The firm has also been part of many design-build projects that help clients achieve a highly customized result.

Tighe & Bond Inc.
53 Southampton Road, Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 562-1600
www.tighebond.com
Robert Belitz, President and CEO
Tighe & Bond offers engineering, design, planning, and environmental-consulting services, with focuses in building, transportation, water and wastewater engineering, coastal and waterfront solutions, environmental consulting, GIS and asset management, landscape architecture and urban design, civil engineering, and site planning.

GROWTH

Baltazar Contractors Inc.
83 Carmelinas Circle, Ludlow, MA 01056
(413) 583-6160
www.baltazarcontractors.com
Paulo Baltazar, President
Baltazar Contractors is a heavy civil construction company with services in utility construction, roadway construction, site work and development, culvert and bridge construction, earth support and shoring, and trenchless technology. The company has remained family-owned over three decades in business.

Braman Chemical Enterprises Inc.
147 Almgren Dr., Agawam 01001
(413) 732-9009
www.braman.biz
Gerald Lazarus, President
Braman has been serving New England since 1890, using state-of-the-art pest-elimination procedures for commercial and residential customers, and offering humane removal of birds, bats, and other nuisances through its wildlife division. The company has offices in Agawam, Worcester, and Lee, as well as Hartford and New Haven, Conn.

Campora Construction Co. Inc.
43 Owens Way, Ludlow, MA 01056
(413) 610-1660
www.camporacc.com
Mario Campora, President
Campora Construction specializes in full-scale building construction and sidewalk, patio, and driveway installation for residential, commercial, and governmental projects. Services include custom home design and construction, complete home rebuilds from fire damage, home additions and sunroom installation, concrete demolition and infills, and commercial office fit-outs.

The Dowd Agencies LLC
14 Bobala Road, Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 538-7444
www.dowd.com
John Dowd Jr., President
Founded in 1898, the Dowd Agencies is the oldest insurance agency under continuous family ownership, and one of the most long-standing, experienced insurance agencies in Massachusetts. Its staff includes fully licensed and certified insurance and financial services agents and brokers in Holyoke, Hadley, Southampton, Indian Orchard, and Ludlow.

Edward F. Corcoran Plumbing & Heating Co. Inc.
5 Rose Place, Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 732-1462
www.efcorcoran.com
Brian Toomey, President
E.F. Corcoran Plumbing & Heating is a full-service plumbing and HVAC contractor, offering 24-hour plumbing services, HVAC installation, gas piping, boilers, heat recovery, and more. It serves the commercial, industrial, medical, and institutional industries and has performed work for Baystate Noble Hospital, Springfield College, UMass, Mercy Medical Center, and Stop & Shop.

Fontaine Brothers Inc.
510 Cottage St., Springfield, Massachusetts 01104
(413) 781-2020
www.fontainebros.com
David Fontaine Jr., CEO
Family-owned and operated for 91 years, Fontaine Bros. offers services such as general contracting, with a focus on K-12 schools, higher education, commercial properties, historical renovations, and municipal work, as well as construction management. As one of New England’s original green builders, it has expertise in building sustainably and responsibly for all kinds of projects.

Keiter Corp.
1 Interstate DriveWest Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 586-8600
www.keiter.com
Scott Keiter, President
Keiter is a construction-services company working with clients on residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional projects of all sizes. The firm is divided into four divisions: Keiter Builders (commercial and institutional construction), Keiter Homes (residential construction), Hatfield Construction (excavation, site work, and structural concrete), and Keiter Properties (real estate and rental).

L&C Prescriptions Inc.
155 Brookdale Dr., Springfield, MA 01104
(413) 781-2996
www.medibubble.com
Dr. Kara James, President
L&C Prescription, the parent company for Louis & Clark Pharmacy, provides medication solutions to individuals, healthcare providers, and assisted-living, independent-living, and memory-care communities, and offers online prescription refills, MediBubble pre-packaged pills, blister packs to manage daily medications, vial synchronization, consultations with registered pharmacists, and a delivery service.

Ludlow Eye Associates, P.C.
200 Center St., Suite 1, Ludlow, MA 01056
(413) 583-3600
Katarzyna Babinski, Owner
Ludlow Eye Associates provides comprehensive eye examinations, medical eye care, and contact lens fittings and examinations. Its optical staff is available to assist with new eyewear purchases, contact lens purchases, as well as eyewear adjustments and repairs.

Marcotte Ford Sales Inc.
1025 Main St., Holyoke
(413) 536-1900
www.marcotteford.com
Mike Marcotte, President
The dealership sells new Ford vehicles as well as pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs, and features a full service department, including a mobile service operation that comes to customers for basic maintenance and recall servicing. Marcotte has achieved Ford’s President’s Award multiple occasions over the past decade. It also operates the Marcotte Commercial Truck Center.

Monty’s Motorsport LLC
1 Arch Road, Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 642-8199
www.montysmotorsports.com
Monty Geer, Owner
Monty’s Motorsport is a parts, sales, service, and gear store for motorsport vehicles, such as four-wheelers, dirt bikes, motorcycles, electric bikes, street bikes, and more. It offers new and used vehicles, with financing options available, as well as services such as winterization, battery inspections, accessory installations, chain adjustments, oil and filter changes, and full engine rebuilds.

Patriot Property Management Group
268 Cold Spring Ave., Suite B, West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 707-4434
www.patriotpmg.com
Marc Murphy, President
Patriot Property Management Group is a real estate company that assists clients in the Western Mass. region with a variety of services, including buying, selling, rental assistance, property management, and more. President Marc Murphy also helms Lock and Key Realty, which is honored in this year’s Super 60 in the Give Back category.

RE/MAX Connections
85 Post Office Park, Wilbraham, MA 01095
(800) 755-7595
www.remax.com/real-estate-offices/remax-connections-wilbraham-ma/100428112
Peter Ruffini and Dawn Ruffini, Brokers/Owners
RE/MAX Connections is a full-service real-estate brokerage servicing Massachusetts and Connecticut, with referral partners worldwide. Its services encompass buying, selling, and renting properties.

Saloomey Construction Inc.
62B School St., Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 269-4360
www.saloomey-construction.com
Michael O’Brien, President
For more than 40 years, Saloomey Construction has built a strong reputation in both new construction and renovation work, including commercial and residential development, historic renovations, medical facilities, marijuana growing facilities, schools, student housing, senior housing, churches, and much more. The firm has also been part of many design-build projects that help clients achieve a highly customized result.

Tighe & Bond Inc.
53 Southampton Road, Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 562-1600
www.tighebond.com
Robert Belitz, President and CEO
Tighe & Bond offers engineering, design, planning, and environmental-consulting services, with focuses in building, transportation, water and wastewater engineering, coastal and waterfront solutions, environmental consulting, GIS and asset management, landscape architecture and urban design, civil engineering, and site planning.

START-UP

Caring Medical Staffing LLC
235 Chestnut St., Unit B01, Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 435-0226
www.caringmedicalstaffing.com
Diana Preston, CEO
Caring Medical Staffing provides highly skilled nursing professionals across diverse healthcare settings, offering flexible, 24/7 staffing solutions tailored to meet each client organization’s short-term and long-term needs. Its team includes RNs (ADN, BSN, MSN), LPNs, CNAs, and HHAs. The business also offers CPR, first aid, and basic life support certification classes on a regular basis to healthcare providers and community members.

Gleason Realty Group
5 Industrial Parkway, Easthampton, MA 01027
(413) 250-7937
Anthony Gleason, President
Anthony Gleason says of his growing company, “we believe that property management is about more than just buildings — it’s about people, community, and creating spaces where businesses can thrive. We are proud to serve our local community with a thoughtful, hands-on approach to property management.”

K. Ebner Creative
www.kebnercreative.com
Kayla Ebner, Owner
K. Ebner Creative is a growing photography and videography business with a wide range of clients, business and corporate photography — everything from restaurants and food to sports and fitness; from drone footage and video business cards to events of all kinds, including weddings. Ebner works locally but is also available for destination and travel work, and offers a range of packages to meet the needs of each client.

The Latest Kraez
469 Longmeadow St., Longmeadow, MA 01106
(413) 384-2962
www.thelatestkraez.com
Rachael Kraez, Owner
Founded in 2020, the Latest Kraez is a woman-owned business serving Longmeadow and the surrounding areas. Owner and baker Rachael Kraez has an associate degree in baking & pastry arts as well as a bachelor’s degree in food and beverage entrepreneurship from Johnson & Wales University, and all her cakes and pastries are baked fresh with the best ingredients. She also services special events.

Wash Works Laundry Services
169 Hancock St., Springfield, MA 01109
(413) 889-3855
www.washworksma.com
Wash Works Laundromat is a family-owned business with multiple locations to better serve its customers. Services include self-serve wash and dry; drop-off wash, dry, and fold; pickup and delivery; commercial laundry services; and dry cleaning. Military and senior discounts are available.

GIVE BACK

413 Elite Professional Basketball Team
393 Belmont Ave., Unit 80347, Springfield, MA 01108
www.413elite.com
Charles Evans, Owner
The 413 Elite is a member of the American Basketball Assoc., whose goal is to provide quality, entertaining, and affordable professional basketball in a friendly, safe environment. Established in 2021, the 413 Elite is a part of the Northeast Division, alongside teams in Boston, Providence, New York, Long Island, New Jersey, and Canada.

All States Materials Group
11 Interstate Dr., Suite 301, West Springfield, MA 01089
(800) 343-9620
www.asmg.com
Jean Azoury, President
All States Materials Group provides a diverse range of products and solutions for the liquid asphalt, paving, and road construction industries. Its construction material supply capabilities include liquid asphalt, asphalt emulsion, specialty additives, construction aggregates, hot-mix asphalt, and ready-mix concrete. The company also provides a broad range of pavement maintenance, repair, and rehabilitation treatment options.

The Fontaine Community Foundation Inc.
510 Cottage St., Springfield, Massachusetts 01104
(413) 781-2020
www.fontainebros.com/fontaine-community-foundation
Elizabeth Wambui, Director
An arm of Fontaine Brothers Inc., thr Fontaine Community Foundation develops partnerships with organizations focused on building stronger communities in New England. Its mission is to leverage resources to help solve problems and contribute to the common good. Key priority areas include children and youth, education, health, community support, and developmental expressions.

Keiter Corp.
1 Interstate DriveWest Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 586-8600
www.keiter.com
Scott Keiter, President
Keiter Corp. is a construction-services company working with clients on residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional projects of all sizes. The firm is divided into four divisions: Keiter Builders (commercial and institutional construction), Keiter Homes (residential construction), Hatfield Construction (excavation, site work, and structural concrete), and Keiter Properties (real estate and rental).

Lock and Key Realty
268 Cold Spring Ave., Suite B, West Springfield, MA 01089
(413) 282-8080
www.lockandkeyma.com
Marc Murphy, President
Lock and Key Realty is a real estate brokerage launched in 2019, which has since grown to 60 agents and recorded $230 million in sales last year, with a portfolio of commercial and residential properties, including apartment complexes, commercial offices, and industrial sites. The firm gives back to the community through an annual golf tournament that raises money for Habitat for Humanity and the Hartsprings Foundation.

Marcotte Ford Sales Inc.
1025 Main St., Holyoke
(413) 536-1900
www.marcotteford.com
Mike Marcotte, President
The dealership sells new Ford vehicles as well as pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs, and features a full service department, including a mobile service operation that comes to customers for basic maintenance and recall servicing. Marcotte has achieved Ford’s President’s Award multiple occasions over the past decade. It also operates the Marcotte Commercial Truck Center.

MGM Springfield
One MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 273-5000
www.mgmspringfield.mgmresorts.com
Chris Kelley, President and COO
MGM Springfield recently celebrated five years of operation in downtown Springfield, offering a host of slot machines and table games, numerous restaurants, a hotel, and entertainment at Symphony Hall, Roar! Comedy Club, ARIA Ballroom, the MassMutual Center, and an outdoor plaza.

Monarch Fore Charities
One Monarch Place, 25th Floor, Springfield, MA 01144
(413) 746-4100
www.monarch-place.com
Paul Picknelly, President
Monarch Fore Charities is the philanthropic and charity-supporting arm of Monarch Enterprises, a leading commercial real-estate developer and hotel operator.

Realistic CEO
www.realisticceo.com
Mychal Connolly Jr., CEO
Realistic CEO aims to inspire and empower individuals, especially youth, to believe in their dreams and pursue them with unwavering determination. Through a book, podcast, vlog, speaking engagements, and more, Connolly aims to demystify the path to leadership and success, providing practical guidance, real-life examples, and motivational content to equip future leaders with the confidence, skills, and mindset needed to achieve their goals and make a positive impact on the world.

Springfield Hockey LLC
1 Monarch Place, Springfield, MA 02110
(413) 746-4100
www.springfieldthunderbirds.com
Nathan Costa, President
Springfield Hockey LLC, better known as the Springfield Thunderbirds, is the local affiliate of the St. Louis Blues and and the American Hockey League’s 2021-22 Eastern Conference champion. Playing its home games at the MassMutual Center since its inception in 2016, the team gives back to the community in multiple ways, like the Thunderbirds Foundation, Stick to Reading school programs, Hometown Salute, Frontline Fridays, and more.

NON-PROFIT

Access Care Partners
4 Valley Mill Road, Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 538-9020
www.wmeldercare.org
Roseann Martoccia, Executive Director
This agency’s mission is to preserve the dignity, independence, and quality of life of elders and disabled persons desiring to remain within their own community. It offers services for elders, their families and caregivers, and people with disabilities. Programs and services include supportive housing, home care, options counseling, adult family care, nutrition programs, elder mental health, family caregiver support, and health-insurance counseling.

Boys & Girls Club of Greater Westfield
28 West Silver St., Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 562-2301
www.bgcwestfield.org
Bo Sullivan, CEO
The Boys & Girls Club aims to inspire and enable young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. Its programs for ages 2 to 18 are designed to support youth in achieving three priority outcomes: academic success, good character and citizenship, and healthy lifestyles.

Clinical & Support Options
8 Atwood Dr., Suite 301, Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 773-1314
www.csoinc.org
Karin Jeffers, President and CEO
CSO’s mission is to provide responsive and effective interventions and services to support individual adults, children, and families in their quest for stability, growth, and a positive quality of life. Services include crisis and emergency services; outpatient mental health; family-support programs; community-based programs; and shelter, housing, and homelessness efforts.

Cutchins Programs for Children and Families Inc.
78 Pomeroy Terrace, Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 584-1310
www.cutchins.org
Tina Champagne, CEO
Established in 1979, Cutchins aims to give children and families access to compassionate and transformative mental healthcare. Its mission is to help children and families transform significant emotional distress into increased resilience, hope, and quality of life, to support the healing and learning process with innovation and integrity, and to serve as a model for best and promising practices.

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts
25 Carew St., Chicopee, MA 01020
(413) 247-9738
www.foodbankwma.org
Andrew Morehouse, Executive Director
The Food Bank works to end hunger in Western Mass. by providing nutritious food, strengthening the region’s food-assistance network, and developing solutions to the causes of hunger. The Food Bank receives food from a number of different sources, including state and federal government, local farms, food businesses, and community organizations, and distributes it to member food pantries, shelters, and meal sites, as well as directly to families.

Forest Park Zoological Society Inc.
293 Sumner Ave., Springfield, MA 01108
(413) 733-2251
www.forestparkzoo.org
Sarah Tsitso, Executive Director
The Forest Park Zoological Society governs the Zoo in Forest Park & Education Center, a non-profit organization that serves as home to more than 225 native and non-native animal residents. The zoo works with wildlife rehabilitators across the U.S. to provide care to animals that have been deemed non-releasable to the wild due to injury, illness, permanent disability, habituation to humans, or other factors, and offers a variety of educational programming for children and adults.

Hampden County Career Center Inc.
850 High St., Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 532-4900
www.careerpointma.com
David Gadaire, President and CEO
Since 1996, Hampden County Career Center Inc., now doing business as MassHire Holyoke Career Center, has been serving the workforce and economic-development needs of individual job seekers, social-service agencies, and the business community throughout Hampden County and beyond, offering a seamless service-delivery system for job seeking, career training, and employer services.

Hampden County Sheriff’s Workforce Initiative
627 Randall Road, Ludlow, MA 01056
(413) 858-0000
www.hcsoma.org/workforce-initiative
Nicholas Cocchi, Hampden County Sheriff
The Hampden County Sheriff’s Workforce Initiative is an innovative program designed to empower justice-involved individuals, disenfranchised job seekers, and those experiencing homelessness by providing immediate, daily employment with same-day pay. Launched by Sheriff Nick Cocchi in 2022, the initiative aims to promote personal growth, self-sufficiency, and social inclusion, ultimately leading to full-time employment and community reintegration.

Mental Health Assoc. Inc.
350 Memorial Dr., Chicopee, MA 01020
(413) 734-5376
www.mhainc.org
Cheryl Fasano, President and CEO
Mental Health Assoc. helps people with a wide variety of mental health issues to live their best life by providing access to therapies for emotional health and wellness; services for substance use recovery, developmental disabilities, and acquired brain injury; services for housing and residential programming; and more.

Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts Inc.
1600 Dickinson St., Springfield, MA 01108
(413) 733-0084
www.feedwma.org
Jodi Falk, Executive Director
The mission of Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts is to alleviate hunger and reduce the waste of food resources in Western Mass. The organization takes a holistic and collaborative approach toward food security by supporting an inter-generational volunteer effort to feed and nourish local communities.

Second Chance Animal Services
67 Mulberry St., Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 739-2343
www.secondchanceanimalservices.org
Sheryl Blancato, CEO
Second Chance Animal Services is a nonprofit animal welfare organization that operates community veterinary hospitals in Springfield, North Brookfield, Southbridge, and Worcester; subsidized rates are provided to underserved communities. Every year, Second Chance helps tens of thousands of pets through full-service veterinary care, spay/neuter services, adoption services, community and educational outreach programs, training, and a pet-food pantry.

Springfield Partners for Community Action Inc.
721 State St., Springfield, MA 01109
(413) 263-6500
www.springfieldpartnersinc.com
Paul Bailey, Executive Director
Springfield Partners for Community Action’s mission is to utilize and provide resources that assist people in need to obtain economic stability, ultimately creating a better way of life. It does so through home and energy services, income-tax assistance services, money-management services, transportation services, veterans’ services, and youth and family services.

Sunshine Village Inc.
75 Litwin Lane, Chicopee, MA 01020
(413) 592-6142
www.sunshine.us
Gina Kos, President and CEO
Sunshine Village serves more than 400 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism spectrum disorders through a variety of innovative day supports. Programmatic sites are located at the agency’s main campus in Chicopee, as well as in Agawam and Three Rivers. The agency’s commercial cleaning company, Westover Maintenance Systems, employs an integrated workforce, while Sunshine Village supports individuals in their own jobs and within group settings at local businesses.

Work Opportunity Center Inc.
94 North Elm St., Suite 104, Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 786-8830
www.wocinc.org
Mary Akers, Executive Director
Established in 1969, Work Opportunity Center is a private, nonprofit organization headquartered in Westfield, with various sites throughout Western Mass. WOC provides training, employment opportunities, and community-based day services to individuals with physical and/or developmental disabilities.

YMCA of Greater Springfield
1500 Main St., Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 739-6951
www.springfiedly.org
Dexter Johnson, President and CEO
The YMCA’s mission is to serve human needs in Greater Springfield by providing programs that promote lifelong personal growth and the balanced development of spirit, mind, and body for all. Its areas of focus include youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, and it accomplishes this through learning centers, school-age programs, childcare, summer programs and camps, and the Y-AIM social intervention program for teenagers.

Berkshire County Daily News Elder Care Events Sports & Leisure Tourism & Hospitality

NORTH ADAMS Last month, BFAIR staged its First Annual Summer Kick-Off Festival, which that raised more than $31,000. With support from 34 sponsors and 28 in-kind donations from local businesses, the agency able to offer a fun-filled day full of the musical stylings of Code Blue Duo, food from Adams Mason Food Truck, two mini-golf courses as part of the BFAIR-Way Mini Golf Tournament, and 15 games and activities. In total, more than $3,000 in prizes and raffles were distributed.

“Our first Summer Kick-Off Festival was an amazing way to get back into in-person events and further share the BFAIRmission with the greater community,” said Tara Jacobsen, Fundraising & Grants Manager. “Support that we receive through events like the Summer Kick-Off Festival and with other fundraising activities, helps us to provide essential and individualized care to persons with developmental disabilities, autism, and acquired brain injury. We are so grateful to all our generous sponsors for making this event possible, the volunteers who donated their time, and to all the guests who came out to the event. We are already gearing up for next year.”

Since 1994, BFAIR has been providing AFC, residential, in-home clinical services, employment and day services for adults and children with developmental disabilities, acquired brain injury and autism.

Holiday Gift Guide Special Coverage

’Tis the Season

It’s not always easy to find the perfect gift item for everyone on your list, but, thankfully, Western Mass. provides a plethora of options, from cooking classes to balloon rides; from sporting events to spa experiences — not to mention books, toys, locally created art pieces … the list goes on. Even better, all support local businesses and organizations — many of which have struggled during the pandemic — and, in turn, boost the region’s economy at a time when it could really use the lift.

When Bill Cole took over leadership of Living Local 413, he said, it was a loose collection of businesses in Longmeadow and East Longmeadow supporting each other. He knew it could be more, and grew its presence and mission; soon, it will even launch an accelerator program.

“Ultimately,” he said, “it’s about the entire business community in Western Mass.”

It’s a business community, like others across the U.S., that has been ravaged by the pandemic and the economic turmoil that has followed in the wake of COVID-19 — and those challenges have not ended, which is why Cole says it’s critical to support locally owned businesses over national chains and online retailers this holiday season, and beyond.

“We should all eat, shop, and hire local,” he said, citing some statistics to back up that thought. “It’s very, very simple: when you take $100 and spend it at a local business, up to $69 stays in the community. When you spend $100 on Amazon, none of it stays in your community.”

Even shopping at a local big-box store returns just $43 of that $100 to the community, he noted.

“The bottom line is, when your money stays local, it helps things like police and fire departments, and sports teams, which are always sponsored by some local business. And it’s better for the environment because you’re not shipping stuff all over the place. Basically, everyone wins. That’s what it comes down to.”

Bill Cole

Bill Cole

“It’s very, very simple: when you take $100 and spend it at a local business, up to $69 stays in the community. When you spend $100 on Amazon, none of it stays in your community.”

Claudia Pazmany, president of the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce, agreed, noting that local retailers offer unique, often handmade gifts that stand out from what can be purchased on Amazon.

“This is a time when we have to look inside and say, ‘I want to support local businesses,’” she said. “People often say they support local, but can you really say you do?”

To help shoppers come to that decision, the Amherst Area Chamber has developed an economic-stimulus initiative to support local businesses through a gift-card match program. The gift cards can be used at many local businesses, and two chamber members have each donated $5,000 to a gift-card match. Thus, beginning on Nov. 15, each $25 gift card purchased will be doubled in value to $50, thanks to these donations.

“That will translate into a $20,000 reinvestment in our small-business community,” Pazmany said, adding that the Amherst Business Improvement District is bringing back its red-ticket event, and for every $25 gift card purchased, the buyer will receive two red tickets toward a cash drawing on Dec. 18.

Again, it’s a win-win for shoppers and local businesses, she said, noting that restaurant gift cards make good holiday gifts as well.

“Let’s make an effort. Restaurants haven’t opened to full capacity because of staffing. We’re not there yet. That’s the big message I’d like to send — we’re not out of this by any means. A lot more support is needed, and the best way to do it is to buy local during the holidays.”

Cole said the pandemic has certainly made things tougher for businesses, but many were already feeling the crunch of online and big-box sales before COVID arrived. Fortunately, he added, more people have become aware of the need to support their area retailers, restaurateurs, artisans, and others.

“Any restaurant, smaller retailer, event business, these are segments of the economy that had the crap kicked out of them really, really badly, and they’re still struggling,” he told BusinessWest. “Even if they got help with PPP and all the things available to the small-business owner, it wasn’t easy to begin with. Some of these people may not recover.

“On a more positive note,” he added, “those people who will recover are awesome entrepreneurs. They know when to pivot and change and do things that make a difference.”

And they deserve the community’s support to keep pivoting and keep rebounding, Cole added. “Certainly, that’s what Living Local is going to do. We want to be 100% behind that.”

 

— Joseph Bednar

 


 

Keeping It Local

Western Mass. Offers Plenty of Gift-giving Options This Holiday Season

 

The Baker’s Pin

34 Bridge St., Northampton

(413) 586-7978; thebakerspin.com

This extensive kitchen store carries a wide range of cookware, cutlery, electric devices, bakeware, kitchen tools, home goods, cookbooks, and food products as well — extracts, condiments, jams and jellies, sweets and chocolates, oils and vinegars, tea, spices, pastas, and more. But it also offers an array of cooking classes, both online and in person, exploring different foods and techniques appropriate for the season.

 

Book Moon

86 Cottage St, Easthampton

(413) 203-1717; bookmoonbooks.com

Since its 2020 opening, Book Moon has established both a local clientele and a robust online presence. The independent store is run by married couple Kelly Link, author of the Pulitzer finalist Get in Trouble, and Gavin Grant, founder and publisher of Small Beer Press. They carry new and used books, collectible first editions, cards and gifts made by local artists, and “mysterious book bundles in brown paper packages tied up in string.”

 

Cooper’s Gifts

161 Main St., Agawam

(413) 786-7760; coopersgifts.com

Cooper’s is not just a store — it’s a destination,” shopkeeper Kate Gourde has said, calling her facility a shopper’s oasis featuring trendy clothing, window fashions, distinctive home furnishings, and exquisite gifts. “I’ve watched babies be born, grow up, and shop now with their little ones. I’ve assisted them in finding the perfect gifts for all the happy and the sad occasions that life sends us.”

 

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art

125 West Bay Road, Amherst

(413) 559-6300; carlemuseum.org

The Carle calls itself “the international champion for picture books. We collect, preserve, and present picture books and picture-book illustrations for audiences passionate about children’s literature.” But in addition to the museum, its store carries books, gifts, prints and décor, cards and stickers, clothing and accessories, party supplies, and more. Parent’s Choice calls it “the very best bookstore for picture books in the entire world.”

 

Glendale Ridge Vineyard

155 Glendale Road, Southampton

(413) 527-0164; glendaleridgevineyard.com

Glendale Ridge Vineyard is a small, family-owned winery committed to producing wines that express the land, climate, and winemaker’s vision. Visitors can taste small-batch wines, tour the inner workings of the boutique winery, or enjoy a glass of wine with family and friends in a scenic rural setting — then purchase a bottle or two from the wine shop. The winery building features indoor seating and space for private events.

 

The Mill District General Store and Hannah’s Local Art Gallery

91 Cowls Road, Amherst

(413) 835-0966;
facebook.com/milldistrictgeneralstore

(413) 835-1765;
facebook.com/hannahslocalartgallery

Part art gallery, part experiential retail store, the Mill District General Store features an array of household items, gardening supplies, pet supplies, games, art supplies, gifts, and locally sourced items. The adjacent Hannah’s Local Art Gallery creates a community hub for emerging and established artists to show and sell their work, teach pop-up classes in their art modality, and learn with and from one another.

 

Misty River Ballooning

(413) 586-9579; mistyriverballooning.com

Misty River Ballooning offers hot air balloon rides in the skies above Western Mass. Veteran balloon pilot Don LaFountain launches from several locations in the Pioneer Valley and the surrounding hilltowns. On a clear day, riders can see the Berkshire hills, as well as the mountains of Vermont and New Hampshire. Each flight is followed by a traditional champagne toast and light snacks.

 

Museum Outlets

31 South St., Pittsfield

(413) 499-1818; museumoutlets.com

One of the product categories on its website is ‘cool stuff,’ but really, it’s all cool stuff, with items like vintage maps, French posters, art and prints, and home goods, including elegant serving trays, candle lanterns, alpaca blankets, sculptures, Amish tin stars, bookends, weathervanes, picture frames, doorstops, pillows, rugs, as well as clothing and accessories. No wonder Museum Outlets was voted Best of the Berkshires in the gift-shop category in 2017, 2018, 2019, and 2021.

 

Odyssey Bookshop

9 College St, South Hadley

(413) 534-7307; odysseybks.com

Over its 59-year history, Odyssey Bookshop has earned a reputation as an eclectic spot to look for books, and also also features a full-service website for ordering. In addition, according to its website, “we strive to provide a hospitable and nurturing environment to encourage the healthy exchange of ideas by hosting numerous readings, book groups, panel presentations, and online discussions.”

 

Off the Beam Woodworking

www.offthebeamwoodworking.com

Local artist (and full-time nurse) Sheri Lee handcrafts unique woodworking pieces, including cheese and serving boards, picture frames, cribbage boards, knife racks, and lanterns from domestic and exotic woods. “Many of the items I make will represent a specific nonprofit organization,” she says. “When you purchase the item, all of the proceeds from the sale minus just the cost of wood and hardware will be donated to the nonprofit the item represents.”

 

Pioneer Valley Food Tours

www.pioneervalleyfoodtours.com

This enterprise creates walking food tours that explore local flavors from Northampton and around the region. It also creates gift boxes sourced from the unique natural resources of the region’s fields and farms, as well as Pioneer Valley picnic baskets of selections ready to bring on an outdoor adventure. Choose a pre-set tour itinerary, or create a custom tour to suit your tastes.

 

Pioneer Valley Indoor Karting

10 West St., West Hatfield

(413) 446-7845; pioneervalleykarting.com

The 1,000-foot track at Pioneer Valley Indoor Karting is capable of racing up to eight karts at once, with the longest races and fastest on-track speeds in New England, featuring a combination of straightaways designed for speed and sweeping corners for technical driving that will challenge everyone from beginners to experts. The track is equipped with a state-of-the-art timing system to record the individual lap times of each kart.

 

Renew.Calm

160 Baldwin St., West Springfield

(413) 737-6223; renewcalm.com

For the past two decades, Renew.Calm has offered an array of both medically based and luxurious spa treatments, with services including skin care, therapeutic massage, nail care, body treatments, yoga, hair removal, makeup, and lashes. The 4,000-square-foot facility also hosts educational events, fitness classes, and more. Multi-treatment packages make great gifts.

 

Rosewood

34 Elm St., Westfield

(413) 642-5365; rosewoodwestfield.com

Rosewood Home & Gifts is a trendsetting retail store located in the heart of downtown Westfield, offering home decor, gift items for special occasions, jewelry, apparel, and more, with a focus on products that support fair trade and products produced locally on the Pioneer Valley. Rosewood also offers seasonal, interactive workshops.

 

SkinCatering

1500 Main St., Suite 111, Springfield

(413) 282-8772; skincatering.com

SkinCatering offers a release from the hectic holidays, so an extra-special, very personal gift may be just what the doctor ordered. Pamper someone special with a massage, facial treatment, spa and sauna package, or any number of other options. And check out its soothing, expanded space on the first floor of Tower Square. Membership packages are available at several different levels.

 

Springfield Thunderbirds

45 Bruce Landon Way, Springfield

(413) 739-4625; springfieldthunderbirds.com

A great deal for big-time hockey fans and folks who simply enjoy a fun night out with the family, Thunderbirds games are reasonably priced entertainment in Springfield’s vibrant downtown. The AHL affiliate of the NHL’s St. Louis Blues, the T-birds play home games through April at the MassMutual Center, with a constant stream of promotions, from theme nights to $2 hot dogs, sodas, and beers every Friday night. Purchase tickets at the box office or online.

 

The Toy Box

201 North Pleasant St., Amherst

(413) 256-8697; thetoyboxamherst.com

The Toy Box is “the family fun store of Amherst,” encouraging kids and adults to play and explore, with a wide array of unique products and features like a birthday club and ‘mystery bags.’ For owner Liz Rosenberg, “the gift of sharing something that promotes family and togetherness, is educational and fun, brings joy to children and grownups alike … well, that helps extinguish fears and makes for a better world, better community, and just plain feels right.”

 

The Trustees of Reservations

200 High St., Boston

(617) 542-7696; thetrustees.org

This nonprofit land-conservation and historic-preservation organization is dedicated to preserving natural and historical places. The Trustees own title to 120 properties on 27,000 acres in Massachusetts, all of which are open to the public, including historic mansions, estates, and gardens; woodland preserves; waterfalls; mountain peaks; wetlands and riverways; coastal bluffs, beaches, and barrier islands; farmland and CSA projects; and archaeological sites. A membership makes a great gift.

 

UMass Store

1 Campus Center Way, Amherst

(413) 545-2619; umassstore.com

This is the place for UMass-branded men’s and women’s apparel, drinkware, home and office supplies, accessories, and more. The UMass Store is also the first collegiate campus store to develop a sustainability section. As part of this commitment, it is reaching out to vendors and increasing the variety of sustainable products carried in the store, from recycled newspaper pencils and bamboo calculators to organic cotton T-shirts and recycled bottle apparel.

 

Veronica Martin Design

(413) 628-1985; veronicamartindesign.com

“I’ve always felt compelled to make things with my hands. It’s a reaction, an impulse. It’s how I breathe. Every day should be filled with beauty, and the everyday item should be beautiful.” That’s how Veronica Martin describes her handmade ceramics, candles, and beauty products, which are both lovely and functional. “Their thoughtful aesthetic and elegant characteristics make them luxurious items to own or stunning gifts to give. They are made with a passion for quality, everyday luxury.”

 

Zen’s Toyland

801 Williams St., Longmeadow

(413) 754-3654; zenstoyland.com

Zen’s Toyland, formerly known as The Wooden Toy, has been in business for more than 30 years, selling a variety of items ranging from baby teethers to adult puzzles. “You will find high-quality and unique items that aren’t available elsewhere,” owner Harshal Patel says. “All the toys are handpicked, and we only bring in toys that we would give to our own kids. Also, we have a playroom for your little one to test-drive things we carry. Everyone is a kid at our toy store.”

 

 

 

Incorporations

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

AMHERST

Long River Taichi Inc., 8 Tuckerman Lane, Amherst, MA 01002. Wolfe Lowenthal, same. The purpose of the organization is to advance awareness of and skill in the art, practice and philosophy of Cheng Man-Ching Yang style Taichi, through ongoing classes, workshops, study groups, and seminars.

CHICOPEE

Mass Fusion Basketball Club Inc., 138 Edbert St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Jefferey A. Herd, same. Organizes youth basketball teams and provides basketball instruction to its members.

LEE

Keshav Pramukh Corp., 155 Summer St., Lee, MA 01238. Kalpeshkumar Patel, 11 Old Middlesex Turnpike, Chelmsford, MA 01824. Liquor store.

LONGMEADOW

J & C Car Transport Inc., 218 Meadowlark Dr., Longmeadow, MA 01106. Juan Adorno, same. Transportation company.

LUDLOW

MGI Industries Inc., 135 Lavoie Ave., Ludlow, MA 01056. Michael Goncalves, same. Construction and landscaping.

NORTHAMPTON

Maroun Md PC, 100 Whittier St., Northampton, MA 01062. Marie-Claire Maroun, same. Doctor.

PITTSFIELD

Huynh Enterprises Inc., 843 West St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Huy H. Huynh, same. Restaurant/tavern.

SPRINGFIELD

Ministry En Motion Inc., 531 Belmont Ave., Springfield, MA 01108. Eric M. Brown, 187 King St., Springfield, MA 01109. To assemble regularly a group of individuals related by common worship and faith in carrying out the functions of a church.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Lopez Auto Reconditioning Inc., 1399 Riverdale Road, West Springfield, MA 01089. Giovanni Ernesto Lopez Sayes, 28 Middlebrook Road, Newington, CT 06111. Auto detailing.

Mehar Awan Inc., 636 Kings Highway, West Springfield, MA 01089. Muhammad Shahid Awan, 968 Berkshire Ave., Indian Orchard, MA 01151. Convenience store.

WESTFIELD

Imagine Scholarship Foundation Inc., 40 St. Dennis St., Westfield, MA 01085. Andrew Jordan Symancyk, same. Provides easy to apply for scholarships with a focus on trade schools/career colleges.