BusinessWest

PrideLands: White Lion Wednesday (Outdoors)
2026-02-04 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-02-11 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-02-18 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-02-25 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-03-04 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-03-11 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-03-18 16:30 - 21:00, 2026-03-25 16:30 - 21:00 (America/New_York) and 2 more dates | Tower Square Park, 1500 Main St, Springfield
The iconic White Lion Wednesday kicks off the event week with music, food, games, and social interaction at 1477 Main Street (Tower Square Park).
4:30pm until 9pm.
Weekly Entertainment, cigar bar, games, etc.

Mindful Childbirth & Parenting: 8 Week Course
2026-02-06 10:00 - 2026-03-27 13:30, 2026-02-13 10:00 - 2026-04-03 13:30, 2026-02-20 10:00 - 2026-04-10 13:30, 2026-02-27 10:00 - 2026-04-17 13:30, 2026-03-06 10:00 - 2026-04-24 13:30, 2026-03-13 10:00 - 2026-05-01 12:30, 2026-03-20 10:00 - 2026-05-08 12:30, 2026-03-27 10:00 - 2026-05-15 12:30 and 1 more date | Sunderland Library, 20 School St, Sunderland, 01375, United States
Join other expectant parents in this groundbreaking, 8-week in-person mindful birthing course led by Brigid Owino of Perinatal Wellness Partners. Learn to engage the mind to work with pain, fear, and anxiety during labor while increasing confidence and courage for the experience of labor and delivery. This course can also carry you through the early stages of parenthood. Partners are welcome to join.
In this Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting (MBCP) course, learn to:
Access deep physical and mental relaxation
Engage the mind to work with pain during labor
Increase confidence and courage for the experience of labor and delivery
Practice prenatal movement for strength and flexibility
Develop skills for managing stress in pregnancy, parenting, and daily life
Enhance partner communication skills
Become more aware of your own approach to parenting
Registration is required; sign up here: https://calendly.com/sunderlandpubliclibrary/childbirth?month=2025-09

Holyoke Medical Center Annual Gala
2026-02-07 18:00 - 23:59 | The Log Cabin
Plans are officially underway for Holyoke Medical Center’s (HMC) 2026 Gala and Silent Auction, set for Saturday, February 7, 2026, at The Log Cabin in Holyoke, MA. The night features the ACE Awards for Best Supporting Employee, Best Leader, Best Caregiver, Best Nurse, and Best Physician and to honor those individuals who support and exemplify the mission of Valley Health Systems, along with the Lifetime Achievement award. The occasion will raise funds to benefit employee appreciation efforts of the Healthcare Heroes at Valley Health Systems who offer compassionate, award-winning care and services to our community through our affiliates of Holyoke Medical Center, Holyoke Medical Group, and Holyoke Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice Life Care.
6:00 PM Complimentary cocktail reception
7:15 PM ACE Award presentations
8:15 PM Multiple-course Chef’s dinner
Dancing • Online Silent Auction
$200 PER PERSON
Black tie optional • Valet parking available
Register by January 19, 2026

Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum's 206th Birthday Celebration
2026-02-15 14:00 - 15:30 | Adams Free Library, 92 Park Street, Adams, MA, 01220, United States
Join the Susan B. Anthony Birthplace Museum on Sunday, February 15 at 2:00 p.m. for a special program celebrating Susan B. Anthony’s birthday at the Adams Free Library in G.A.R. Memorial Hall.
This year’s celebration features Dr. Rachel MacNair, a Quaker scholar and peace psychology expert, who will speak about Susan B. Anthony’s Quaker upbringing and how those values shaped her lifelong advocacy for women’s rights.
The event will begin with a reception and cake, followed by the talk and audience Q&A. Seating is limited, and attendees are encouraged to arrive early. G.A.R. Memorial Hall is located on the second floor, with elevator access available via the Melrose Street entrance.
This event is free and open to the public.
For more information and to reserve a spot, visit https://www.susanbanthonybirthplace.com/annualbirthdaycelebration or email info@susanbanthonybirthplace.org
.

2026 Annual St. Patrick's Breakfast
2026-03-06 08:00 - 17:00
Don’t Miss the St. Patrick’s Breakfast – A Celebration of Heritage, Community, and Opportunity!
Holyoke, MA – Join us on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, from 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM, at The Log Cabin, for the annual St. Patrick’s Breakfast—a must-attend event that brings together community spirit, tradition, and meaningful connections.
This celebrated gathering is more than just breakfast; it’s a chance to honor Holyoke’s rich Irish heritage, build relationships, and make a genuine impact in the community. The event is open to everyone, and all are encouraged to take part in this morning of pride, unity, and inspiration. Whether you’ve been part of this tradition for years or you’re joining for the first time, now is the time to get involved.
Why This Breakfast Matters
The St. Patrick’s Breakfast highlights the strength of our connections and the pride we share in Holyoke’s history. It’s where neighbors, friends, and local leaders come together to celebrate milestones, foster opportunities, and pave the way for a brighter future.
Calling All Small Business Owners!
This year, we’re offering an exclusive opportunity for small businesses to shine. Through the Shamrock Charm sponsorship, your promotional materials will be placed directly at the table of every attendee—enhancing your visibility and demonstrating your support for the community.
Sponsorship spots are limited, and early registration is essential to secure your place. This is your chance to connect with an engaged audience, boost your local presence, and contribute to an event that strengthens community ties.
Reserve Your Spot Today!
There’s no better time to commit to this inspiring event. By signing up now, you’ll secure your place at a celebration that unites us all. Bring your enthusiasm, your pride, and your appetite for connection as we come together to honor tradition and community.
Details at a Glance:
• Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
• Time: 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
• Location: The Log Cabin, Holyoke
For ticket registration, sponsorship details, and further event information, visit holyokechamber.com or contact Lisa Totz, interim director at 413.534.3376, director@holyokechamber.com. Act fast to be a part of this incredible celebration!
Be There. Celebrate Together. Strengthen Community.
We look forward to seeing you at the St. Patrick’s Breakfast for a morning of meaningful connections, cultural pride, and lasting memories.
Thank you to our presenting sponsors: Witman Properties, People’s Bank, Holyoke Gas & Electric and BankESB
# # #
For media inquiries, please contact:
Lisa Totz
Interim Director
413.534.3376
director@holyokechamber.com

Innovate413 Startup Accelerator Cohort Spring Community Night
2026-03-07 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-07 17:30 - 19:30
Join the Innovate413 Spring Accelerator Program Community for evenings of full of fun networking opportunities! It’s a great chance to connect, learn, and get some awesome guidance from mentors in the Accelerator program. Don’t miss out on these in-person sessions designed to help you level up your skills and network with fellow cohort members.
Saturday, March 7
Accelerator Cohort Community Mentorship Night
Saturday, April 11
Accelerator Cohort Shark Tank Simulation
Saturday, May 2
Accelerator Cohort Community Mentorship Night
Saturday, June 13
Accelerator Cohort Shark Tank Simulation

Innovate413 Monthly Mentorship Meetings
2026-03-18 17:00 - 19:30
Feedback, Customers, and Momentum for Early-Stage Startups
You are invited to join our Pioneer Valley founders in this structured monthly series where they refine their pitch, pressure-test their strategy, and connect with mentors and potential customers in the community. Startups are here to change the world, and we’re here to help them. Everyone has something to give and something to learn. You don’t have to know what that is when you walk in—that’s what we’re here for. The right conversation can save you months of wasted effort.

BHN Kamp for Kids Golf FUNraiser
2026-03-19 16:00 - 20:00 | Max’s Swing Lounge, 1000 Hall of Fame Avenue, Springfield, MA, 01105, United States
Swing for a Cause: Help Kids Experience Inclusive Summer Camp!
Coming off the excitement of last year’s 50th anniversary, we launch into our next 50 years, building on five decades of impact, inclusion, and unforgettable memories at Kamp for Kids. Join us at Max’s Swing Lounge in Springfield for virtual golf, minigolf, good food, and time together—all in support of children and families across our region.
This year, instead of selling tickets, we’re inviting everyone to support Kamp for Kids by sponsoring, making a recurring monthly donation, or giving a one-time gift during the event.
Every dollar we raise via this event, through sponsorships and free will donation, helps ensure campers of all abilities can access meaningful, inclusive summer fun. Your support helps ensure every child, regardless of ability or financial circumstance, can experience the joy, connection, and growth that make Kamp for Kids so special. Whether you’re swinging a club, cheering on friends, or simply stopping by, your participation strengthens a community built on inclusion and compassion.
If you interested in sponsoring the event please contact Kelly Brown at kelly.brown@bhninc.org or 413-654-0930.

StratAI Series One: Manufacturing
2026-03-26 16:30 - 19:00 | Brian Corridan Center at STCC Technology Park, 1 Federal St, Springfield, MA, 01105
BusinessWest, in partnership with Innovate413, present StratAI Series, to help businesses develop Practical AI Strategies, Smarter Operations, and Stronger Growth.

StratAI Series: One,
MANUFACTURING

Thursday March 26th
4:30 – 7 p.m.
Brian Corridan Center at
STCC Technology Park
Sponsored By:
RP Masiello

WNE Fin Tech

Registration is Free!

Expert Panelists, Breakout Workshops
Food provided by Olde Armory Grille
Beverages provided by White Lion Brewing Company
Moderation by:
Scott Longley, Manufacturing Expert in Residence at FORGE
Paul Silva, CEO of Innovate413
Panelists:
David Arturi,
CEO of Tetra
John Fazzio,
President and COO of Pilot Precision Products, LLC
Ben Grande,
President of the Western Mass. chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Assoc. and general manager of Meridian Industrial Group
Gavin Giguere,
President and CEO of REIGN Manufacturing
Vinniy LaRocca,
CTO of Tetra
David Disabito,
Western New England University
Mary G. Schoonmaker,
Western New England University
Ali Usman,
Founder and CEO of PixelEdge

Pickleball Tournament
2026-03-29 08:00 - 18:30 | The Picklr, 415 E. Main St, Westfield, MA, 01089, United States
Get ready to serve up some fun at our upcoming Pickleball Tournament on Sunday, March 29! This round-robin–style event features two-player teams and will be divided into timed sections by skill level, so everyone gets great matchups and plenty of play time. Tickets are $50 per player, and pre-registration is required. Whether you’re in it to win it or just love the game, this tournament promises fast-paced action for a great cause.
To register, visit bit.ly/4ri4lyK

Difference Makers 2026 Event Gala
2026-04-07 17:30 - 21:00 | The Log Cabin
Join us at The Log Cabin in Holyoke, Tuesday April 7 as we
honor BusinessWest’s Difference Makers Class of 2026
Ryan Alekman and Robert DiTusa
Partners, Alekman DiTusa, LLC
Rachelle Hannoush
Director of Youth, Violence Prevention, and
Court Support Programs, YWCA of Western Massachusetts
Jess Miller
Comedian and Founder, The Kind Squad
Darby O’Brien
Owner, Darby O’Brien Advertising
Julie Quink
Managing Principal, Burkhart Pizzanelli, P.C.
Edward Sokolowski
Managing Partner and Wealth Advisor,
Pioneer Valley Financial Group
Margaret Tantillo
Executive Director, O’Dell Women’s Center
Zeno Temple
Founder, Just Us Movement

Sponsored By:

2026 New Member Coffee Connects
2026-04-08 07:30 - 09:00 | Masuda’s Cafe, 17 Kellogg Ave, Amherst, MA, 01003, United States
Start your morning with meaningful connections at Coffee Connects—our newest networking series created for those whose workday starts early. Enjoy a welcoming, casual environment to meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and build relationships before the day gets underway.
