From Personal Finance to Fitness to Travel, There’s an App for Everything

By
Special Coverage Technology

The World in Your Pocket

 

It’s staggering how much accumulated knowledge is available with a few taps on a smartphone screen. Whether Apple or Android, countless apps are available to help users with a wide range of tasks, from managing their finances to tracking their fitness goals to getting an education in various topics to making travel easier and more fun.

For this year’s roundup of what’s hot in technology, BusinessWest checks in on what the tech press is saying about some of the most popular smartphone apps.

 

Dollars and Sense

Smartphones have put a world of personal finance in people’s hands. For example, Intuit’s Mint gives users a real-time look into all their finances, from bank accounts and credit cards to student loans and 401(k) accounts.

“Let’s start with Mint’s very high ratings in both the App Store and Google Play,” Nerdwallet notes. “It’s free and syncs many kinds of accounts: checking and savings, credit cards, loans, investments, and bills. As far as the actual budgeting, Mint tracks your expenses and places them in budget categories. You can personalize these categories, which are unlimited. You set limits for these categories, and Mint lets you know if you’re approaching those limits.”

Besides those budgeting features, Nerdwallet notes, Mint may help users pay down debt, save more money, and track goals, while showing users their credit score and net worth. As a bonus, Mint provides plenty of support for using the app, including a detailed FAQ.

As its name notes, You Need a Budget, or YNAB, earns top grades from Investopedia because of the company’s renowned budgeting philosophy and reputation. YNAB says new budgeters typically save $600 in their first two months and more than $6,000 in their first year. It includes customizable reports that break down the user’s income and expenses by category, account, and time frame, with the aim of helping users get their finances in order.

“YNAB allows you to sync your bank accounts, import your data from a file, or manually enter each transaction,” the site adds. “After signing up, you create your first budget and assign every dollar a purpose, such as your rent or car payment. The goal is to eventually get at least one month ahead, so you’re spending money you earned 30 days ago. The company offers extensive educational resources and customer support to keep you on track.”

For investors, Forbes recommends Empower (formerly Personal Capital) for its outstanding reporting options, desktop capabilities, investment-management platform and spending tracking. Empower gives a holistic view of customers’ entire financial picture, from day-to-day spending to tracking portfolio performance.

“The app has several savings tools designed to help build retirement savings and emergency funds and pay down debt,” the publication adds. “It also has excellent advisory tools, including an investment checkup, investment-fee analyzer, financial planning, cash-flow tracking, education cost planning, and real-time net-worth tracking. All of these tools give detailed insights into your current financial picture, while also helping you plan for the future. The list of features may sound overwhelming, but the app is easy to use.”

Meanwhile, CNBC sings the praises of PocketGuard, which, among other features, taking into account the user’s estimated income, upcoming expenses, and savings goals, and uses an algorithm to show how much is available for everyday spending. The app categorizes expenses; syncs to bank accounts and credit cards; and boasts security features like bank-level encryption, PIN codes, and biometric IDs.

 

Beyond the Workout

Moving beyond financial wellness to physical wellness, countless apps are available to offer information on what to eat, how to exercise, and how to stay committed to better habits.

Forbes recommends FitOn, which offers a wide variety of workouts, including cardio, strength, high-intensity interval training, dance, yoga, Pilates, Barre, and more. It even features workouts led by celebrities like Gabrielle Union, Julianne Hough, and Jonathan Van Ness. Classes are available in real time with the app’s live classes feature or through on-demand workouts.

With a live leaderboard and real-time heart rate tracking via Apple Watch, users can track their progress and fitness goals. Upgrading to the Pro version grants users access to more than 500 recipes, live workout video calls, personalized meal plans, and more.

One of the most popular nutrition apps is MyFitnessPal, which offers a wealth of tools for tracking what and how much the user eats and how many calories they burn through activity, according to PC Magazine.

The app is also a top pick of Verywell Fit, which notes that “MyFitnessPal is our pick for best overall fitness app because of its robust food and activity database, easy-to-use logging and tracking tools, library of workouts, and ability to connect to several other apps.” It includes a database of more than 14 million foods, is customizable based on health goals, and offers restaurant menu logging as well.

According to CNET, Nike Training Club provides various workout programs such as body-weight exercises, high-intensity interval training, cross training, yoga, core exercises, and even expert health tips by Nike trainers to keep you on track.

“The workouts are easy to follow because there are video demonstrations of each exercise with the allotted time you should be doing them,” CNET notes. “This keeps you from losing track during your workout and mentally prepares you for the following exercise. The app also connects to your Apple watch to provide health metrics such as your heart rate and logs your activities. The best part of this app is that it’s free and gives you access to many resources no matter if you’re a beginner or more advanced.”

Although Peloton is famously associated with the home-workout bike of the same name, the workouts on the app don’t all require users to have the bike or other equipment, U.S. News and World Report notes, while boxing, running, yoga, and many more types of fitness workouts are available on the app.

Women’s Health agrees, adding that “testers loved the huge choice of workouts available, from strength sessions to yoga to meditation, and found it easy to filter classes on the app by duration and difficulty to find the right one for them. Our team also said they were persuaded to push beyond their usual limits during each session thanks to motivational instructors, who helped keep their form in check with non-stop helpful pointers — though some testers found them a tad too intense for their liking.”

 

 

So Much to Learn

Countless popular apps focus on education and learning for all ages. For kids, Verywell Family recommends Khan Academy, which collaborates with the U.S. Department of Education and myriad public and private educational institutions to provide a free, world-class education for anyone.

“From preschoolers to high-schoolers, there are few educational apps that can measure up to Khan Academy when it comes to the wide range of courses it offers to students of all ages,” the site notes. “Khan Academy’s YouTube videos cover most subjects at a range of levels: math, science and engineering, arts, humanities (which includes history and social studies), economics, AP courses, and test prep.”

It adds that Khan Academy is popular among students, parents, and educators because its videos are engaging and targeted at visual learners, using photos, maps, and other illustrations, and because it allows students to work at their own pace.

For teachers, Education Corner calls Google Classroom an excellent resource. “It pulls together all of the G-Suite apps (Docs, Slides, Sheets, and Draw). Teachers can create assignments and announcements for individual classes. They can attach worksheets, slideshows, or weblinks (along with many other things) and set deadlines. The work can be marked/graded and returned to students for further work.”

When a student completes work, it gets saved automatically to their Google Classroom class folders in their Google Drive (which are set up automatically). All work is saved securely. Students may submit class comments that are viewable to all students and teachers assigned to that ‘classroom,’ which leads to collaborative working.

My eLearning World touts HOMER as a personalized learning app designed to help younger kids fall in love with learning, featuring more than 1,000 learning activities across all subjects. “From toddlers to second-graders, this educational app is a fit for every eager kid ready to learn something new, especially younger kids early in their development. HOMER is an early learning software designed to help children develop their critical thinking skills. It helps them build their confidence for the future by leading them on their customized educational journey.”

HOMER features a variety of interactive lessons, stories, and activities that are tailored according to the student’s individual skills, age, and interests. “The level of personalization is what really sets HOMER apart from other kids educational apps,” My eLearning World notes, “and it’s why this is our favorite app for keeping children of various ages and skills engaged and learning at their own pace.

For learning another language in the go, Lifewire gives top marks to Duolingo, which “stands out among language-learning apps, and among education apps overall. Duolingo includes dozens of languages, including a couple of fictional ones just for fun. Each language offers a mostly linear path divided into topics of conversation. Each topic presents you with short exercises to familiarize you with the material through spoken and written formats.”

The app encourages users to make a habit of practicing with a reward system and a social component. The rewards can be spent in the app’s store on powerups and fun accessories. Meanwhile, the in-app social network encourages users to invite friends to the app and compare scores.

 

Now Go Away

Thinking about a vacation? PC Magazine says Hopper “is an app you definitely want to use while you’re planning a trip and before you buy any tickets. The mobile-only app tracks flight prices and gives you clear advice on the best time to buy — including through notifications when the price drops. What makes this travel app valuable is its level of detail. It doesn’t just tell you to wait to buy your ticket, but gives you a date when the price will likely rise. You can book through Hopper, too, with a commission fee of a few dollars.”

Travel + Leisure notes that flight prices can fluctuate, making it tricky to decide whether to book right away or hold off. Hopper can remove some of the uncertainty by predicting the best time to find the cheapest fares, saving up to 40%. The app also has a price-monitoring feature so users can select a particular flight and receive alerts if the price drops. They can also compare the prices and amenities of more than 250 airlines and get alerts about airfare flash sales.

For lovers of the great outdoors, Travel + Leisure also sings the praises of AllTrails, noting that “this app will provide you with the area’s best hiking, biking, and running trails. In addition to details on length, starting location, and trail quality, AllTrails includes reviews and photos from a community of hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll find useful information like what to pack, obstacles you’ll find along the route, and the best scenic spots to check out.”

Finally, Afar singles out TripIt, which automatically tracks confirmation emails for flight itineraries, hotel, or Airbnb bookings; car rentals; restaurant reservations; and even event tickets, then populates those travel plans into an itinerary that be viewed in one place.

“The easy-to-use organizational app makes it simple to share the consolidated information with family or friends, so you can send them your itinerary directly and avoid having to answer repeated texts like, ‘when are you landing again?’ to coordinate an airport pickup,” Afar notes. “TripIt even features a personalized travel stats page for really data-hungry folks who want to know how many trips they’ve taken or countries they’ve visited — and that’s just in the free version.” Meanwhile, the paid version includes extras like real-time flight alerts, TSA wait times, and loyalty reward program updates.

In short, whatever you’re looking to improve in your life, as Apple’s famous ad slogan notes, there’s an app for that.

 

Greenfield Envisions a Future-focused Downtown

By
MJ Adams
Community Spotlight Special Coverage

Community Spotlight

MJ Adams

MJ Adams, seen with one of Greenfield’s signature bees, says commercial and residential development are equally important downtown.

 

MJ Adams recalled a community event in February 2020 called “A Deliberate Downtown: Growing by Design.”

“Because so many interesting things were happening downtown at that time, and we were getting ready to launch a downtown-revitalization effort, we wanted to engage everyone in the community conversation about downtown,” said Adams, Greenfield’s director of Community and Economic Development.

Then the pandemic struck, the world went into lockdown, and the city pressed pause on its plan, she said. But only a pause.

“The COVID-19 pandemic changed many things about the city’s growth plans for the short term, all of 2020 and most of 2021, but it did not change the grit, determination, and resiliency of our city’s business and government leaders,” Mayor Roxann Wedegartner said in a recent state-of-the-city address, noting that municipal leaders moved forward with construction and revitalization programs, aided by a rush of state and federal money intended to pump life into the economy and infrastructure.

During that time, the city broke ground on a new, $20 million library (set to open this spring), solidified a location for its new $21 million fire station (expected to open early next year), and built a temporary fire station to ensure continued service.

“These projects are a testament to the willingness of Greenfield citizens to fund essential services that serve our city and surrounding communities,” she said, adding to that list a skate park soon to open between Chapman and Davis streets downtown, funded with a combination of state grant money and city capital-improvement funding.

It’s all part of what the mayor calls the city’s ‘rurban’ lifestyle, an appealing combination of urban amenities and a rural feel, all highlighted by a downtown set to undergo significant changes to make it more liveable, walkable, and attractive for businesses and visitors alike.

“Downtown areas throughout the nation are changing; some have dried up completely, while others, like ours, are focusing on recognizing demographic and business shifts and are embracing that change,” Wedegartner said in her address. “We have a robust downtown-redevelopment strategy focused on transformational change incorporating available and new housing, new infrastructure improvements, and retail and commercial opportunities. Here is where we merge our economic-development, infrastructure, and housing efforts into a cohesive plan.”

 

What’s in Store?

A significant element in the downtown mix is the former Wilson’s Department Store site, which is being converted into an intriguing mixed-use development.

The city brought together the Community Builders and MassDevelopment in the acquisition and redevelopment of the former Wilson’s property, originally built in 1882. The redevelopment will create approximately 65 residential rental units and will reactivate prominent first-floor and basement retail spaces through the relocation and expansion of Franklin Community Co-op’s Greenfield store, Green Fields Market.

“In addition to creating much-needed, high-quality housing in Greenfield, relocating and expanding Green Fields Market will provide the community with access to healthy food in an area of Greenfield currently without a full-service grocery store,” said Rachana Crowley, director of Real Estate Development at the Community Builders, when the project was announced. “We’re proud to be a part of this team which will create new housing and employment opportunities and invest in a strong and robust Main Street in Greenfield.”

Adams said attracting a combination of commercial and residential tenants through mixed-use development has been important in the ongoing downtown plan. “What happens downtown, how we perceive it, is how the region perceives us as a community. So we knew we had to work on downtown. And we knew we couldn’t leave Wilson’s sitting empty.”

Jessye Deane

Jessye Deane says Greenfield businesses thrive through connections with myriad agencies that provide technical, financial, and other forms of support.

Adams called upper-story redevelopment “a significant building block in our efforts to create more business development and housing in Greenfield.” But the Wilson’s project is only one piece; another 36-unit development on Wells Street will hit the construction phase soon, and developers are eyeing other potential residential-development sites both within and outside of Greenfield’s downtown sector.

“We know we need to take a look at the missing middle-market supply of housing that serves working people who are not eligible for subsidized housing but are also struggling to find housing in any market now,” she said. “This is an issue for the whole state. Everyone is feeling, quite accurately, that we’ve made progress with affordable rental housing, but now we need to work on other aspects of the market.”

Adams feels like Greenfield is an attractive market for people looking for a place to live because it’s considered more affordable than other communities and boasts strong transit links to the rest of the region and beyond.

A $7.8 million, state- and federally funded multi-modal Main Street improvement project should only lend momentum to that perception, she and Wedegartner believe. The mayor appropriated $288,900 in capital funds for engineering and design of the project, which begins 100 feet to the east of Colrain Street and ends at High Street. The project is on track to be included in MassDOT’s Transportation Improvement Program, with construction slated to begin as early as fall 2026.

“While this project is underway, the city will also be able to upgrade underground utilities, primarily our water and sewer infrastructure. This will save the city money as we will not need to dig up Main Street twice,” the mayor noted, adding that additional grant money is being used to fund a parking-management study for the downtown area.

One significant goal of all this, she told BusinessWest, is to make Main Street more pedestrian- and bike-friendly, including continued efforts to make Court Square a pedestrian plaza. “Route 2A can never be pedestrian-only; Main Street has to be open to all traffic. But there’s significant work being done curb to curb.”

“I’m fond of saying that, in five years, you’re not going to recognize Main Street.”

Wedegartner stressed that development activity in Greenfield extends well beyond downtown. The Planning Department and City Council continue work to rezone about 40 acres across Route 2A from the I-91 Industrial Park as additional industrial space geared to attracting more advanced manufacturers and sustaining existing manufacturers who have run out of space in the current industrial park.

Jessye Deane, executive director of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce and Regional Tourism Council, said one of the city’s selling points is its balance between that industrial sector and the sorts of small, locally owned shops and eateries that dot the downtown, as well as attractions ranging from Greenfield Garden Cinemas, which recently celebrated its 94th birthday, to Hawks & Reed Performing Arts Center.

Greenfield at a glance

Year Incorporated: 1753
Population: 17,768
Area: 21.9 square miles
County: Franklin
Residential Tax Rate: $19.65
Commercial Tax Rate: $19.65
Median Household Income: $33,110
Median Family Income: $46,412
Type of Government: Mayor, City Council
Largest Employers: Baystate Franklin Medical Center, Greenfield Community College, Sandri
* Latest information available

The owners of Greenspace Co-work, located upstairs from Hawks & Reed, have been bringing local businesses together at a monthly event called Business Breakdown, and Deane has been impressed with what they’re saying.

“The Business Breakdowns are so interesting; we’re hearing how many people not originally from this area chose to start a business in Greenfield because there are so many resources available — partnerships with the chamber and the Franklin County CDC and the city — and how glad they are that they did choose Greenfield.

“Greenfield is the seat of Franklin County,” she added. “When Greenfield does well, all of Franklin County does well. So it’s good to see Greenfield making such a concerted effort to revitalize the downtown.”

 

Partners in Progress

With technical and financial assistance and other resources provided to businesses through agencies like the CDC, Common Capital, the chamber, and others, and workforce-development efforts at Greenfield Community College, Franklin County benefits strongly from a culture of partnership, Deane said.

“It feels like there’s this collective effort to really build on the partnerships; it’s one of the things Franklin County generally does very well,” she explained. “Working through the pandemic, we had effective partnerships, and I’m really seeing those grow as we’re able to share resources and think more strategically about the next generation of Greenfield and what the city should look like.”

That said, “I’ve been really impressed with the energy and momentum I’m seeing in Greenfield,” she told BusinessWest. “We’ve seen the city of Greenfield creating an environment more attractive to businesses, while simultaneously supporting the outstanding businesses we already have to make sure we’re ensuring their success.”

That’s Wedegartner’s goal too, of course, even as she asks people for patience as all the visible signs of progress come together downtown over the next few years, from the new library and fire station to new housing and a more walkable city center.

“I’m fond of saying that, in five years, you’re not going to recognize Main Street,” she told BusinessWest. “It’s going to be so different and so much more vital in so many ways. But it’s going to take time.”

 

STCC to Host Author, Social-justice Advocate Dorothy Roberts

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) is celebrating Women’s History Month with speaker Dorothy Roberts, an author, law professor, and social-justice advocate who will present on race-based medicine.

Roberts will speak on Thursday, March 30 from 11 a.m. to noon in the Scibelli Hall Theater in Building 2. The event is free and open to the public. STCC has been highlighting Women’s History Month with speakers and other events on campus during March.

An in-demand speaker, Roberts’ TED talk on race-based medicine drew more than 1.5 million views. Her new book, Torn Apart, examines racism and the child welfare system in the U.S. She will discuss issues raised in her 1997 book Killing the Black Body: Race, Reproduction, and the Meaning of Liberty.

The STEM Center at STCC, which offers services and academic support for all students taking STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) classes, is presenting the event.

“We are excited to host Dorothy Roberts at STCC. Hearing the incredibly powerful words of Dorothy Roberts in person is an opportunity you won’t want to miss,” said Marlene Johnson, Title V STEM grant project director and STEM Center director.

Roberts is the 14th Penn Integrates Knowledge Professor and George A. Weiss University Professor of Law & Sociology at the University of Pennsylvania. In 2022, she was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

She has joint appointments in Penn’s departments of Africana Studies and Sociology and the Law School, where she is the inaugural Raymond Pace and Sadie Tanner Mossell Alexander Professor of Civil Rights. She is also the founding director of the Penn Program on Race, Science, and Society.

Local Author J.D. O’Brien Releases Debut Crime Novel

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Western Mass.-based author J.D. O’Brien’s debut crime novel, Zig Zag, was recently released in hardcover by Schaffner Press, an independent publisher in Tucson, Ariz., with a paperback edition coming later this year.

In Zig Zag, a botched marijuana-dispensary heist in the San Fernando Valley sends burned-out bail bondsman Harry Robatore deep into the Mojave Desert trailing two lovers on the run. What follows is a stoned journey across the dive bars, neon-lit motels, and lost highways of the American West, building to an explosive showdown at a ghost-town tourist trap.

Jacket blurbs for the novel feature praise from top crime writers, including Shoot the Moonlight Out author William Boyle, who describes it as “a cosmic American crime odyssey” in the vein of James Crumley, and Rovers author Richard Lange, who describes it as “Elmore Leonard meets Warren Zevon, with a wry sensibility all its own.” Pineapple Express and Eastbound & Down director David Gordon Green says Zig Zag “feels like a great ’70s movie.”

Since its release in February, Zig Zag has been named a Southwest Book of the Year by the Pima County Library and was a pick of the week by popular publishing-industry resource Shelf Awareness, who says O’Brien “comes off as a seasoned pro … in this engrossing page-turner.”

Before returning to the Pioneer Valley, the author lived in Los Angeles for a number of years, including a stint in Van Nuys, the gritty neighborhood where much of Zig Zag is set. The book was also informed by several road trips through the Mojave Desert. O’Brien currently works as a copywriter at Darby O’Brien Advertising in South Hadley. He is working on a sequel to Zig Zag.

Jennifer Hashley to Discuss Economics of Climate-Smart Agriculture at MCLA Today

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Jennifer Hashley, the Trisha Perez Kennealy and Michael Kennealy director of New Entry Sustainable Farming Project, will give a talk titled “Economics of Climate-smart Agriculture” today, March 29, at 5:30 p.m. at the MCLA Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation, Room 121. This event is free and open to the public as part of MCLA’s Green Living Seminar series.

Hashley is a leader in local food-systems work, focusing on beginning farmer development. Her role at New Entry includes building community partnerships, developing new programs and services, mentoring and supporting project staff, securing sustainable resources for all program operations, writing grants, strategic planning, and overseeing incubator training farm site infrastructure and a multi-year sustainable-agriculture training curriculum in specialty crops and livestock production for limited-resource farmers.

Hashley’s efforts at New Entry have transformed it into a nationally recognized farmer-training program with multiple components: training and technical assistance, marketing, finding land and resources, hands-on learning at training farms, accessing government programs and resources, and conducting training for other incubator farm and community food-security projects across the U.S. Hashley also excels in working side-by-side with farmers in the field, at markets, and in the classroom.

As part of the Agriculture, Food and Environment program at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, Hashley is also an Agricultural Science and Policy lab instructor, helping to bridge the gap between graduate students’ classroom learning and practical, farm-based education.

MCLA’s annual Green Living Seminar Series continues through April 19, presenting a series of lectures on the theme of “Capitalism and the Environment.” Every semester, the Green Living Seminar Series centers around a different topic that is timely and relevant to current sustainability issues. Seminars take place on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m.

The 2023 series is a presentation of the MCLA Environmental Studies Department. Podcasts will be posted online following each presentation at www.mcla.edu/greenliving.

Mill District General Store to Host Egg Hunt on April 8

By
Daily News

NORTH AMHERST — Based on the community’s enjoyment of last year’s inaugural event, the Mill District General Store will host the second annual Great Mill District Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Lavender the Funny Bunny will be on hand to meet and be photographed with kids and adults alike. The event will take place in front of the Mill District General Store, located off North Square at 91 Cowls Road, North Amherst. Three egg-hunting sessions are scheduled from morning to early afternoon.

“We saw a great turnout in 2022, with families enjoying the day,” W.D. Cowls’ Senior Communications Director Tim O’Brien said. “This year, to make it easier for the littler ones, we’re creating three egg-hunt areas with three separate collecting rounds, plus we’re tripling the number of hidden eggs and including additional fun activities.”

To complement the egg hunt, organizers have arranged photo-ops with Lavender the Funny Bunny and an opportunity to meet live rabbits. Youngsters will also have the chance to find one special golden egg each round, with a $25 general-store gift card inside.

Participation is limited to the first 40 kids registered in each of the three sessions, which will be held at 10 a.m., noon, and 2 p.m. More information and event registration can be found at www.generalstorelocalgallery.com/events.

Court Dockets

By
Court Dockets

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.

 

 

HAMPDEN SUPERIOR COURT

 

Linda Santos v. Moran Foods LLC d/b/a Save-A-Lot Ltd.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing personal injury: $35,215.61

Filed: 2/22/23

 

LM Insurance Corp. v. Golden Nails Construction Corp.

Allegation: Money owed for insurance premiums: $258,857.14

Filed: 2/23/23

 

Douglas DeLeo v. Stafford Pools LLC

Allegation: Breach of contract, intentional misrepresentation, negligent property damage: $75,000

Filed: 2/24/23

 

Waterman Excavating Inc. v. Wingwell LLC and Thorndike LLC

Allegation: Breach of contract: $937,048.77

Filed: 3/1/23

 

Maya McIntyre v. Brockway Transport Inc., DRT Transportation LLC, and John Doe

Allegation: Motor-vehicle negligence causing personal injury: $75,000

Filed: 3/1/23

 

Ronald Michonski and Nancy Michonski v. Northeastern Exteriors LLC d/b/a Rhino Shield of New England

Allegation: Breach of contract to paint house: $250,000

Filed: 3/3/23

 

Ralph Peppers v. Plastipak Packaging Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing personal injury: $3,107

Filed: 3/6/23

 

Wanda Rivera v. Family Dollar Stores of Massachusetts Inc.

Allegation: Negligence; slip and fall causing personal injury: $157,513.20

Filed: 3/6/23

 

Paul Ross v. Blake Thermal Sales & Service Inc.

Allegation: Breach of contract: $100,000+

Filed: 3/8/23

 

Editorial

By
Opinion

East-west Rail a Worthwhile Goal

 

“This is an easy fix. Please fix it. Make it easy for us. Make it easy for me to get to work.”

Those were the words of Gina Nortonsmith, who lives in Northampton but works in Boston, as reported by the Berkshire Eagle.

The occasion was a pair of hearings on east-west passenger rail service in Massachusetts, the latest in a series of meetings being held by the Western Massachusetts Passenger Rail Commission.

Nortonsmith’s sentiments are no doubt shared by many in Western Mass. who work in the eastern part of the state, or travel there often for other reasons, from medical appointments to ballgames and concerts.

What many state officials and lawmakers no doubt take issue with is the word ‘easy,’ at least when it comes to bringing such rail service into existence. Because it certainly won’t be easy — or inexpensive.

But our feeling has long been that the price tag — an initial outlay of $2.4 billion to $4.6 billion, according to MassDOT, plus ongoing maintenance costs — is worth it.

The reasons are myriad. In an age of remote and hybrid work models — which don’t seem to be going away — rail service could be a boon for those who need to work in or near Boston but want the lower cost of living and what they see as a higher quality of life in the Valley or the Berkshires. Conversely, it would open up job opportunities out east for those already living here.

“Key passenger rail stops along the east-west passenger line would provide a catalyst for economic growth throughout the area,” Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno said in written testimony at the Springfield hearing. “The iron is hot, and now is the time to strike. This project would open up myriad positive possibilities, including opportunities for economic development, jobs, and housing.”

Enhanced rail could also bring more tourism dollars to Western Mass. — which is rich in cultural and recreational destinations — by making it easier for Eastern Mass. denizens to spend some time here.

The service would likely connect Pittsfield to Boston via a high-speed train with proposed stops in Chester, Springfield, Palmer, and Worcester. From an environmental perspective, fewer cars on the Mass Pike and other roads means fewer emissions, and that’s a plus for the health of the entire corridor.

While talk of east-west service had been frustratingly fruitless for rail advocates in recent years, their dream got some concrete encouragement last summer when an $11.4 billion infrastructure bond bill backed by former Gov. Charlie Baker authorized $275 million toward expansion of passenger rail and created the Western Massachusetts Passenger Rail Commission to gather information about the feasibility of such a project.

U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and many influential local lawmakers have been stalwart supporters of such a plan. And in her FY 2024 state budget, Gov. Maura Healey proposed directing $12.5 toward the project, including the hiring of a project director, design of a station in Palmer, and track improvements in Pittsfield — all of which points to continued support from the governor’s office to make east-west rail a reality.

The plan still has many hurdles to clear; it’s far from a done deal, and may never happen — because, as we noted, it’s not easy.

But the payoff would go far beyond making commuters’ lives a little easier. From the perspectives of economic growth, tourism dollars, and even climate and health, we hope this theoretical train keeps chugging toward an actual, feasible plan.

Mental-health Needs Continue

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Negar Beheshti, MD

 

The emergency declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic may end on May 11, depending on the specific policies and guidelines of each country or region. However, the mental-health needs of individuals affected by the pandemic are likely to continue long after the official declaration ends.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant stress and uncertainty for many people, including social isolation, financial difficulties, and concerns about health and safety. These stressors can take a toll on mental health, leading to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental-health issues.

While the end of the pandemic may bring some relief, it is important to recognize that the mental-health impacts of the pandemic may be long-lasting. Therefore, it is essential to continue to prioritize mental healthcare and support, both for those who have been directly affected by the pandemic and for the general population.

This can include accessing mental-health services, practicing self-care strategies such as mindfulness and exercise, and seeking support from friends, family, or mental-health professionals as needed. By taking steps to address their mental health, individuals can promote their overall well-being and resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

Mental Health America’s 2023 ranking of states in terms of higher access to mental healthcare shows Massachusetts continues in a top position. The Commonwealth, which has made access a priority through its recent creation of Community Behavioral Health Centers, ranks second, as it did in 2022, in terms of such markers as access to insurance, treatment, and quality and cost of insurance.

Lack of affordability and lack of access are consistently among the barriers cited in seeking mental healthcare, so it is good to see the state maintain its ranking on access in comparison to other states. Massachusetts, through its Roadmap for Behavioral Health Reform, is working to reduce these barriers, and we here at MiraVista are proud that our opening nearly two years ago in the middle of the pandemic created additional inpatient psychiatric beds in the state for both adults and youth, as well as expanded inpatient treatment for substance use.

Still, the need for increased mental-health services — and the funding to support them — to meet demand continues both in the state and nationally.

The pandemic brought attention to the existing gaps in mental-health services and has spurred efforts to address them. It is crucial to recognize that the need for mental-health support and resources continues to exist post-pandemic, and individuals should be encouraged to seek help and support whenever necessary.

Our experienced clinicians deliver patient-centered and evidence-based care, helping those with mental-health and substance-use conditions to find their road to recovery in order to live a fulfilling life.

 

Dr. Negar Beheshti is the chief medical officer for MiraVista Behavioral Health Center in Holyoke and its sister hospital, TaraVista Behavioral Health Center, in Devens. For more information on MiraVista’s psychiatric services, visit www.miravistabhc.care.

Picture This

By
Gift of Gratitude
Picture This

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

 

Gift of Gratitude

Mercy Medical Center announced that Liberty Bank Foundation has pledged a gift of $25,000 to the fundraising effort to create the Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit. Following his cancer diagnosis, well-known restaurateur Andy Yee sought treatment at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center. Grateful for the care Yee received until his passing in 2021, his wife, Sarah, approached hospital leaders about creating a space dedicated to palliative care.

Gift of Gratitude

Pictured, from left: Mercy’s Geoffrey Hoyt; Liberty President and CEO David Glidden; Mercy and Trinity Health Of New England Medical Group President Deborah Bitsoli; Sister Caritas Cancer Center Director Dr. Philip Glynn; Sarah Yee and son Jamie Yee; and Liberty’s Tony Liberopoulos and Jeffrey Sattler.

 

 

Shining Stars

The Greater Chicopee Chamber opf Commerce’s signature Shining Stars Awards Gala, held March 3 at the Castle of Knights, recognized McKinstry Market Garden Inc. as Business of the Year, Holyoke Community College (HCC) as Nonprofit of the Year, Judith Corridan Danek as Citizen of the Year, and Mim Zayas as Volunteer of the Year.

Shining Stars

Pictured, back row, from left: Mike Knapik of Baystate Health; HCC President Christina Royal; Chicopee Mayor John Vieau; Bill McKinstry, Will McKinstry, and Warren McKi nstry of McKinstry Market Garden; Chicopee City Treasurer Marie Laflamme; Michelle Wirth of Mercedes-Benz of Springfield; and state Sen. Jake Oliveira. Front row, from left: Mim Zayas of Masis Staffing and Judith Corridan Danek of Health New England.

 

 

Celebrating Opportunities

 

ServiceNet recently hosted Massachusetts Secretary of the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Kate Walsh, acting Undersecretary of Human Services Dana Sullivan, and Commissioner of Disability Services Jane Ryder to its Rooster Café in Northampton. They were joined by state Sen. Jo Comerford and state Rep. Lindsay Sabadosa, among other guests. Participants in ServiceNet’s Rooster Café culinary program prepare meals and serve customers, using many ingredients from ServiceNet’s Prospect Meadow Farm in Hatfield.

Celebrating Opportunities

Pictured, from left: ServiceNet President and CEO Sue Stubbs, culinary program participant Dani Rizzo, ServiceNet Director of Vocational Services Shawn Robinson, Comerford, and Ryder.

 

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By
Chamber Corners

1BERKSHIRE

(413) 499-1600; www.1berkshire.com

 

March 29: Go Fund U Session #3: “The Bandwagon Effect and VIPs,” 5-7 p.m., hybrid event, hosted online or at Berkshire Innovation Center, 45 Woodlawn Ave., Pittsfield. Create a bandwagon that other folks want to jump onto. Understand how to identify and communicate with your VIPs before launch to increase your chances of reaching your funding goal. In this session, we’ll also discuss setting your funding target, determining reward levels, and strategies for during and after your campaign. This is your opportunity to learn the secret recipe for crowdfunding success. Register at www.1berkshire.com.

 

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700; www.amherstarea.com

 

March 30: Margarita Madness, 5:30-7:30 p.m., hosted by Interskate 91 at the Hampshire Mall, 367 Russell St., Hadley. TommyCar Auto Group returns as presenting sponsor. Mix, mingle, and network at our largest signature event of the year. Enjoy an evening of tasty margaritas and vote for your favorite. Local restaurants showcase their fare, and there are dozens of raffles prizes donated by Amherst Area Chamber members. Cost: $35 pre-registered at www.amherstarea.com, $45 at the door.

 

 

EAST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 575-7230; www.erc5.com

April 4: Coffee Hour Connections with ERC5, 8:30-9:30 a.m., hosted by Hillary Lynn Photography, 200 Center St., Suite 5, Ludlow. Join us as we gather to build relationships and Hillary shares more about the work she is doing with brand imagery that tells a story and connects with your dream clients. Register online at www.erc5.com.

 

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 534-3376; www.holyokechamber.com

 

March 29: After Hours and Ribbon Cutting at Fame, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Fame, 386 Dwight St., Holyoke. Join as we celebrate the grand opening of Fame with small, homemade bites; craft beer and cocktails; and connections. To register, visit www.business.holyokechamber.com/events.

 

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900; www.northamptonchamber.com

 

April 4: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Danco Modern, 10 West St., Hatfield. Our monthly networking get-together is the perfect place to expand your circle of connections in the business community. New to (or nervous about) networking? Join us at 4 p.m. for a Warm Welcome pre-party and get tips from our experts. Sponsored by Reider Media, Delap Real Estate, and Applied Mortgage. First Impressions sponsored by Finck & Perras. This is a free event. Register online at www.explorenorthampton.com.

 

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618; www.westfieldbiz.org

 

April 5: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Mayor Michael McCabe will update the attendees on City Hall activities, and there will be an opportunity to ask the mayor questions. This event is free to attend. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org.

 

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880; www.ourwrc.com

 

April 4: April Lunch & Learn with ERC5, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Villa Rose, 1428 Center St., Ludlow. Learn from our panelists how to maintain and grow in 2023 and beyond. Hear valuable tips for making every penny count in your business and how to effectively use your dollars to your advantage. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members. To register, visit www.ourwrc.com.

Agenda

By
Agenda

Empty Bowls Fundraiser

April 1: The Amherst Survival Center will host its 15th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser from noon to 4 p.m. at the center’s site at 138 Sunderland Road, North Amherst. Empty Bowls will offer in-person dining at the center, with service from state legislators, town leaders, and other special guests. Attendees may also take their soup to go. Guests select a unique, handcrafted bowl made by a local artist and choose between a dozen soups donated by local restaurants and freshly baked bread. Meat, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free soup options will be available. The keepsake bowl is theirs to keep as a reminder of all the other bowls they have helped to fill. Soft drinks are included, and wine and hard cider are available for purchase (cash only). Tickets cost $50 and are available online at www.amherstsurvival.org/emptybowls or by calling the Amherst Survival Center at (413) 549-3968, ext. 108. Guests who don’t want a handmade bowl may also choose soup-only tickets for adults ($30) or for children ($10). Children 2 and under are free. Tickets can also be purchased in person on the day of at the event.

 

SSO Chamber Concert

April 2: The Springfield Symphony Orchestra (SSO) will host its second chamber concert of the season at 3 p.m. at First Church of Christ, 763 Longmeadow St., Longmeadow. The concert will feature the Casey String Quartet, which is made up of Springfield Symphony Orchestra musicians. Four Springfield Symphony Orchestra string musicians that make up the Casey String Quartet will perform, including cellist Patricia (Tish) Edens, violinist Miho Matsuno, violinist Robert Lawrence, and violist Martha McAdams. The chamber concert will feature works by Edward Elgar, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and Benjamin Britten, three composers whose works the Springfield Symphony Orchestra will be performing at its next concert at Symphony Hall on Saturday, April 15. The quartet will also perform a piece by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Tickets can be purchased by calling the SSO box office at (413) 733-2291. Tickets cost $30 for adults and $10 for youth ages 4-18.

 

Best of Valley Voices Story Slam

April 8: The Best of Valley Voices Story Slam collaboration between the Academy of Music Theatre and New England Public Media will stage its eighth competition at the Academy of Music at 7:30 p.m. Audience members selected the top three storytellers from four slams performed at a variety of venues in the Valley between December and March, and now they will compete for the best of the best. Both novice and experienced storytellers will be sharing their five-minute, first-person narratives live on stage, and the audience will select the winner. Co-producers Lyrical Faith and Vanessa Cerillo, along with singer and songwriter Adam McElreath, will lead the audience along with the rules and voting tips. For further information or to purchase tickets, visit www.aomtheatre.com or call (413) 584-9032, ext. 105, Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.

 

Free Shred Days

April 15, May 13: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. The events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. on the following dates and locations: April 15, bankESB, 241 Northampton St., Easthampton; and May 13, Home Depot parking lot, 350 Russell St., Hadley. No appointment is necessary. Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. Valley Green Shredding, a professional document-destruction company, will be on site and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

 

Harmonia V Concert

April 20: The Westfield Athenaeum and MOSSO (Musicians of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra) will present the third of a three-concert chamber music series, with Harmonia V performing at 7 p.m. Guy McLain, executive director of the Westfield Athenaeum, will offer a pre-performance talk at 6 p.m., which is free to ticket holders. The Connecticut-based Harmonia V, an innovative woodwind quintet, performs standard literature, seldom-heard treasures, and dynamic contemporary music. Members of the quintet include Springfield Symphony Orchestra and MOSSO horn player Robert Hoyle; Jennifer Berman, flute; Janet Rosen, oboe; Jim Forgey, clarinet; and Jackie Sifford Joyner, bassoon. The Harmonia V program, “April in Paris,” includes music by Fauré, Ravel, and Debussy. For information on Harmonia V, visit www.harmoniav.com. Tickets for the concert cost $25 and must be purchased in advance at the Westfield Athenaeum during business hours, or online at www.westath.org.

 

Difference Makers Gala

April 27: The 15th annual Difference Makers Gala will be held at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Since 2009, BusinessWest has been recognizing the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions through this recognition program. The 2023 Difference Makers was announced, and their stories told, in the Feb. 20 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com. Tickets cost $85 each, and tables of 10-12 are available. To purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com/difference-makers. Partner sponsors for this year’s program include Burkhart Pizzanelli P.C., the Royal Law Firm, TommyCar Auto Group, and Westfield Bank.

 

Pioneer Valley Conference for Women

May 4: The Pioneer Valley Conference for Women will host its first in-person event at the Marriott in downtown Springfield. The theme of the conference is “Let Go.” Leading the speaker lineup are Paulette Piñero, social entrepreneur, writer, and leadership coach, and Yvonne Williams, author of Tested Faith and It’s All About the Shoes. Each will provide a keynote address to an expected audience of more than 300 attendees. The conference highlights topics that were chosen by the women of Western Mass., based on current trends and interests. Alison Maloni, owner of Alison May Public Relations, news anchor for a national network, and bestselling author of Breaking in the News: Build Buzz for Your Brand, will emcee the conference. Local comedian Jess Miller will entertain attendees during a VIP Comedy Kick-off the evening before the conference; tickets cost $35. The cost to attend the Pioneer Valley Conference is $52, which includes breakfast, lunch, a swag bag, and an afternoon celebration with a female DJ and complementary wine and hors d’oeuvres following the full-day conference. The lunch sponsor is M&T Bank. The panel sponsor is Westfield Bank. The network sponsors are Smith Executive Education and USI Insurance. The small-business sponsors are Lovelace Design and Rooted Flowers. Keeping with the goal of accessibility, the conference will also be available virtually for those who are more comfortable watching through a screen. Sessions will be taped for future viewing. For more information on keynote speakers, sponsors, exhibitors, and panelists, visit sheslocal.org/pioneer-valley-conference-for-women.

 

Hooplandia

June 23-25: Registration for Hooplandia, a 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, is now open at www.hooplandia.com and includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. The tournament, presented by the Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, will take place on the grounds of ESE in West Springfield June 23-25, with special games at the Hall of Fame in Springfield. The event is expected to attract thousands of fans and players as hundreds of games take place across more than 70 courts. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. With brackets that include veterans, first responders, youth, wheelchair athletes, college elites, and many more, there’s a spot on the court for everyone. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range from $75 to $190, with children under 8 and participants in the Special Olympics category being free of charge. Hooplandia has teamed up with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, providing $10 from every team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Partnership opportunities for Hooplandia are available at a variety of levels to help underwrite all areas of play, including Boys & Girls Club youth, active military, veterans divisions, and more. Anyone interested should email [email protected]. Hooplandia welcomes participation from youth team referees, scorekeepers, Fan Village contest facilitators, and volunteers for myriad duties to help make this inaugural year a success. Those interested in participating in this groundbreaking event can fill out the volunteer form at www.hooplandia.com.

 

MOSSO Concert

July 23: MOSSO (Musicians of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra) will make its Sevenars Concerts debut in Worthington at 4 p.m. MOSSO and Friends, which opened the Westfield Athenaeum series, features violinist Beth Welty, horn player Sarah Sutherland, and pianist Elizabeth Skavish. They will perform Frédéric Duvernoy’s Trio No. 1 for Violin, Horn, and Piano; Trygve Madsen’s Trio, Op. 110 for Violin, Horn, and Piano; and Johannes Brahms’ Trio in E-flat Major for Violin, Horn, and Piano. Sevenars performances are held at the Academy, South Ireland Street and Route 112, South Worthington. There is no charge for admission to the performance, and no tickets are needed, although donations at the door are welcome ($20 or more per person is suggested to help defray expenses). For program details and information on Sevenars, visit www.sevenars.org.

People on the Move

By
People on the Move

O’Reilly, Talbot & Okun (OTO) recently announced nine staff additions and promotions: Jonathan Hermanson, Lori McCarthy, Caren Irgang, Lily Elkhay, Kaitlyn Sistare, Pierre Carriere, Elise Zalenski, Toby Simmons, and Christine Arruda.

Jonathan Hermanson

Jonathan Hermanson

Lori McCarthy

Lori McCarthy

Caren Irgang

Caren Irgang

Lily Elkhay

Lily Elkhay

Kaitlyn Sistare

Kaitlyn Sistare

Pierre Carriere

Pierre Carriere

Elise Zalenski

Elise Zalenski

Toby Simmons

Toby Simmons

Christine Arruda

Christine Arruda

• Hermanson earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry and environmental science. Before moving to Massachusetts, he worked in environmental consulting for five years in Kansas City. As an environmental scientist at OTO, he helps the team with Massachusetts Contingency Plan work and risk characterization, as well as environmental compliance. He also assists the asbestos and industrial hygiene team. Some of his latest achievements while at OTO are becoming a radon measurement professional and a certified hazardous materials manager.

• McCarthy earned her bachelor’s degree in biochemistry. This degree taught her how releases of hazardous chemicals to the environment can have negative health effects to humans and animals nearby. She then went on to study a second degree in environmental sciences. With more than 20 years of experience in her field, she has worked on sites across New England, finding solutions to remediate the releases of oil and hazardous materials. At OTO, McCarthy was most recently promoted to associate and is the team leader for the environmental sector.

• Irgang earned her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and then went on to earn her master’s degree in civil engineering at Manhattan College. Irgang has experience in structural engineering from building and bridge engineering in New York City and performing construction inspections. Joining OTO as a Level II engineer, Irgang is performing geotechnical investigations and design and field oversight. She continues to utilize her structural engineering skills and provides an added perspective to our geotechnical projects.

• Elkhay is earning her bachelor’s degree in marketing at UMass Amherst and brings her experience from her previous internship. As the marketing intern, Elkhay has posted on OTO’s social-media pages, created ads, and performed any other as needed marketing tasks.

• Sistare is a 2022 graduate from Western New England University (WNE), earning her bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with an environmental engineering concentration. At WNE, she and her team’s senior project placed first in the civil engineering department. She primarily works with the geotechnical group at OTO as a Level I engineer, but also assists the environment group.

• Carriere graduated from WNE in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. During his studies, he gained experience in many areas, including surveying, technical writing, CAD, soil and materials testing, and collaboration skills. Joining OTO as a Level I engineer, he has become heavily involved in field work and working on site, as well as working on proposals, reports, and site plans in the office.

• Zalenski earned her MBA in 2010 and has spent the last nine years developing her skills in office management, HR, IT, and bookkeeping. She has worked in residential and light commercial water treatment, which provided experience in site evaluations, water testing, treatment design, and reviewing EPA, DEP, and local board of health regulations and practices. As OTO’s office manager and executive assistant, she will be managing the day-to-day needs of the staff that may arise in the areas of IT, telephones, general building or parking issues, and scheduling events and vacations, along with providing support for OTO’s president, Ashley Sullivan.

• Simmons has brought her 20 years of field-technician experience to OTO. As an environmental technician, she has taken on many field duties to make sure the job is done safely and efficiently.

• Arruda has been with OTO for more than 25 years and has been part of the internal leadership transition taking place since 2020. As a result, she was promoted to associate this past year and serves on the company’s operations committee. With more than 20 years of experience as a both a certified indoor environmental consultant and Environmental Protection Agency-accredited and Massachusetts-licensed asbestos inspector, she manages and works on numerous types of indoor environmental issues, including asbestos, radon, HVAC, chemicals, and microbial contamination. She also is an National Radon Proficiency Program-certified radon-measurement professional who can perform single, multi-family, large-building, school-building, and water-radon-measurement services.

•••••

Country Bank announced that Erin Pope has joined its Innovation & Technology division in Ware. Before joining Country Bank, Pope worked at Digital Credit Union and American Tower. Pope holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical and computer engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and received certification in Professional Scrum Master 1. “At American Tower, I managed a network-operations team responsible for the global office and data-center infrastructure,” she said. “It was through working with this team that I learned the importance of strength and a diverse team. I am excited to join Country Bank’s storied history and contribute to its continued success. I hope to support the team by increasing engagement and innovation to support the business and its customers better.”

•••••

Nick DePalma

Nick DePalma

Nick Bernasconi

Nick Bernasconi

Notch Mechanical Constructors announced the promotion of two employees to newly created executive positions. Nick DePalma has been promoted to executive vice president. In this role, he will have overall responsibility for operations, quality, safety, and customer-base growth in alignment with the company core values. This promotion will allow Steven Neveu, president of the company, to focus more on the long-term strategic growth and vision for the company. In addition, Nick Bernasconi has been promoted to vice president of estimating and project management. He will oversee all activities and initiatives related to the company’s accounts management, estimating, and project management. Previously a family-owned business for 48 years, Notch transitioned to an employee-owned ESOP company in 2020. These new roles will be critical to breaking through to the next level as an organization and ensuring a strong leadership team into the future.

•••••

Riverside Industries Inc. (RSI) announced that four new members have joined its board of directors to help support its mission to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live rich and full lives. All four of the new board members began their three-year term with RSI effective March 2023. They include Tara Brewster, vice president of Business Development and director of Philanthropy at Greenfield Savings Bank; Jeff Palm, partner and chief operating officer at Global Educators Inc.; Melissa Peters; Human Resource generalist for Fiducient Advisors; and Teremar Rodriguez-Vazquez, assistant general counsel at Health New England.

•••••

Aieshya Jackson

Aieshya Jackson

Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services (MLKFS) has wrapped up an almost-year-long search for a new leader. After an extensive search campaign and interview process, Aieshya Jackson, chair of the board of directors of MLKFS, announced that Shannon Rudder will be the next president and CEO of the organization. Rudder, who will join MLKFS on March 13, most recently served as deputy director of Teach Western Mass, a nonprofit organization working toward educational equity in partnership with area schools. She also served as executive director of Providence Ministries Inc., an organization supporting the needs of marginalized populations by addressing food insecurity, addiction recovery, housing, clothing, and workforce development. She earned her MBA and her BBA, the latter magna cum laude, from Medaille College.

•••••

Tech Foundry, a regional leader in IT workforce development and training, announced the hiring of three new staff members as well as four promotions, which will allow the organization to double the number of participants served annually.

• Henry Alston was hired as Tech Foundry’s Service-Learning coordinator. In this role, he will be responsible for implementing the organization’s new service-learning pilot program in collaboration with Mass Humanities’ Clemente Course in the Humanities. He is a tech and wellness enthusiast with career experience in sales, marketing, and project coordination. After attaining his bachelor’s degree from Lincoln University in Oxford, Pa. in 2015, he went on to graduate from the University of Louisville with his MBA in 2020. He is a Tech Foundry alum.

• Phillip Borras is Tech Foundry’s Career Readiness and Recruitment coordinator, a new role created to provide focused support and mentoring to student members. His diverse experience as a professional speaker, comedian, and life coach allows him to successfully teach and support Tech Foundry participants as a career coach during and after the program.

• Jessica Cogoli has been promoted to assistant instructor. She is a Tech Foundry alum and has been working closely with the organization since she graduated, both as a volunteer and a TA for its IT-support training program. She is currently enrolled at Holyoke Community College and will graduate with an associate degree in computer science in the spring.

• Marie-Ange Delimon, a Tech Foundry alum, has been promoted to manager of Community Impact for the organization. In this role, she oversees external partnerships and community engagement, including managing internship and job-placement programs as well as partnerships with a variety of nonprofit organizations throughout Western Mass. Previously, she served as Tech Foundry’s manager of Workforce Development. She is a graduate of a variety of medical-training programs and holds an MD degree from Université Notre Dame d’Haïti.

• Johannes Romatka has been promoted to manager of Instruction and Curriculum. Previously an instructor at Tech Foundry, he has a diverse background in information technology, including training and network support. Prior to joining Tech Foundry, he worked in a training role for internal IT-support staff at U.S. Bank.

• Linh Tran joined Tech Foundry in February as the organization’s new Administrative and Marketing coordinator, where she will support development, program, and communication initiatives. Originally from Vietnam, she has been studying and working in Massachusetts for almost 10 years. She is an experienced management professional with a diverse background in nonprofit, retail, legal, and insurance organizations, and is a graduate of Tech Foundry’s IT-support training program.

• Michelle Wilson was hired as Tech Foundry’s manager of Administration and Operations in September and was recently promoted to deputy director, a position that encompasses a variety of duties, including overall operations management, fundraising, and marketing. Her background includes more than 17 years in nonprofit management, with roles at a national membership organization in San Francisco, a globally recognized mentoring program, an independent school in Seattle, and a state humanities council. She is a graduate of Lafayette College in Easton, Pa. and holds a master’s degree in public administration from San Francisco State University.

•••••

The Hampshire, Franklin and Hampden Agricultural Society, the nonprofit organization that manages Northampton’s Three County Fair and fairgrounds, recently elected its newest president, Thomas Smiarowski, who has been a member of the society for more than 20 years and was elected to its board of directors in 2016. Smiarowski is expected to serve two years as president, leading the society’s board of directors, which consists of 21 other appointees who make up the fair’s agricultural leadership. Smiarowski grew up on his family’s vegetable and dairy farm in Montague, where he continues to help his brother Dan, who currently owns and operates the family farm. Following his graduation from UMass Amherst, Smiarowski worked 34 years for the USDA’s Farm Service Agency, holding a number of management positions. Following his retirement from USDA in 2012, he worked 10 years as an agricultural risk-management educator for UMass Extension. He is currently a director of the Massachusetts Agricultural Club, the longest-standing agricultural club in the country; serves as a Massachusetts trustee of the Eastern States Exposition; and is a member of the New England Vegetable and Berry Growers Assoc. He also serves on the capital campaign to fund the new construction of the Newman Catholic Center on the UMass campus.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

American International College Announces Three New Programs

SPRINGFIELD — The School of Business, Arts, and Sciences at American International College (AIC) has begun recruiting students for three new academic degree programs designed to prepare students for fields in high demand. Launching in the fall of 2023, these new offerings expand AIC’s academic portfolio of more than 40 interdisciplinary programs grounded in the liberal arts. AIC’s new cybersecurity program will equip students with the technical and business knowledge needed to secure high-paying and growing jobs in this field. Students will assess modern cybersecurity challenges threatening privacy, security, and safety and gain the knowledge and hands-on technical skills to protect digital assets from cybercriminals. Cybersecurity is an ideal degree for people who want to work in a future-focused field with a high earning potential. And with 33% job growth by 2030, opportunities continue to grow. The new bachelor’s degree in public administration program at AIC was developed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in public-sector roles. This program emphasizes experiential learning, with projects in government administration, public health, social science, history, and more. Public administration is a field for those who want to enact change in their communities and beyond. With more than half of all federal workers nearing retirement age, demand for fresh talent is set to skyrocket in the coming years. The esports and gaming administration program at AIC offers a business degree with a gaming-industry specialization, providing business fundamentals that will last a lifetime. This program addresses the greatest needs in the esports and gaming industry, identified through interviews with major companies, including Capcom and Riot. AIC’s coursework will provide students with the necessary context for understanding the games industry and a basic understanding of how technology-based companies get things done. Between 2018 and 2019, the number of jobs in esports nearly doubled, growing a staggering 85%.

 

Cooley Dickinson Receives $250,000 Gift from Smith College

NORTHAMPTON — Cooley Dickinson Hospital announced it has received a $250,000 gift from Smith College to support the expansion and renovation of Cooley Dickinson’s Emergency Department. The gift will support the $19.76 million expansion, reconfiguration, and renovation effort to allow Cooley Dickinson to meet the evolving emergency-medicine needs of the community it serves. To accomplish this goal, the hospital has embarked on an ambitious and comprehensive fundraising campaign. Approximately $6.4 million has been raised to date. The project is expected to break ground this spring. Smith College has been a long-time supporter of Cooley Dickinson. Significant donations to the hospital have included helping to fund the hospital’s North Building and Kittredge Surgery Center, as well as its Nurse Development program and comprehensive Breast Center. Cooley Dickinson is expected to serve approximately 40,000 Emergency Department patients this year. That care will be provided in a 1970s-era building that was designed for 17,000 patients annually and is currently 40% undersized. A shortage of space means some patients are treated in hallways. The Emergency Department also needs to expand its services to care for an aging population (three times the population from 10 years ago). In addition, the expansion will provide additional beds for people experiencing mental-health emergencies. The two-year project calls for adding 7,500 square feet of space, including nine new patient rooms; two behavioral-health beds and two ‘flex’ beds to use as patient needs arise; and a family waiting area. When the project is completed, the Emergency Department will occupy more than 23,000 square feet. In addition, a computerized tomography (CT scan) machine, which provides timely access to diagnostic imaging, will be added to the Emergency Department.

 

MCLA Launches BSN Program

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will launch a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) program for the fall 2023 semester. This will be the first BSN program in Berkshire County and the only BSN program within an hour’s drive of the rural tri-state corner of Massachusetts, Vermont, and New York. This nursing-education initiative will help address the current and future rural nursing workforce shortages. MCLA received final approval from the Board of Higher Education this month and received initial approval to launch a BSN in January from the Board of Registration in Nursing (BORN). The next phase of BORN approval is anticipated after MCLA graduates the first nursing cohort in 2027. MCLA’s BSN degree can be completed over a four-year period. After accepting pre-nursing students this fall, the college will formally accept up to 25 students into the nursing major at the conclusion of their first year of study. Students must complete required pre-nursing courses in math and sciences during that first year for admission into the program. Transfer students may also apply to the nursing program during their first year of study at MCLA and transfer in non-nursing courses for consideration toward graduation. MCLA expects that the first BSN class will graduate in May 2027. At the conclusion of the program, students will be awarded a bachelor of science in nursing degree and be prepared and eligible to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).

 

The MH Group Marks 10 Years, Launches Nonprofit Foundation

SPRINGFIELD — The MH Group (formerly ManeHire Talent Solutions), a Springfield-based staffing and recruiting agency, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Founder and CEO Nicole Polite’s roots run deep in Springfield, as her great-great-granduncle was Primus Parsons Mason, a Black entrepreneur and real-estate investor who is most well-known as the namesake of the city’s Mason Square neighborhood. To continue his legacy, Polite is launching the nonprofit Polite Foundation, focusing on providing career resources to underserved populations. In addition, she has served on multiple nonprofit boards, such as the YWCA of Western Massachusetts, the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County (now operating as MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board, the United Way of Pioneer Valley’s Dora D. Robinson Women’s Leadership Council, and the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission council. She also served as a business advisor at the Entrepreneurial & Women’s Business Center at the University of Hartford.

 

 

HCC, Arizona State University Announce Transfer Pact

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) announced a new alliance with Arizona State University (ASU) to provide students a seamless transfer experience through the MyPath2ASU program, which allows students to take the steps needed at the start of their college experience to successfully plan their transfer from HCC to ASU, where they can complete their bachelor’s degree online. MyPath2ASU provides a set of customized transfer tools for students from accredited institutions, end-to-end learner navigation through course-by-course guided pathways; advising to assist students in course selection to ensure their credits fulfill requirements at both HCC and ASU; guaranteed general admission to ASU and admission into their choice of MyPath2ASU major, if all requirements are satisfied (some majors have additional or higher admission requirements); more than 400 course-by-course guided pathways into immersion and online ASU degree programs; self-service degree-progress tracking through the ASU My Transfer Guide to minimize loss of credits; and connected experience through personalized ASU communications to prepare students academically and build an early connection to ASU.

 

Monson Savings Bank Receives 5-Star Rating from BauerFinancial

MONSON — BauerFinancial Inc., a leading, national bank-rating firm, announced that Monson Savings Bank has once again earned its top (5-Star) rating for financial strength and stability. Having earned Bauer’s 5-Star rating for 40 or more consecutive quarters, Monson Savings Bank has earned an even higher designation as an Exceptional Performance Bank. This marks the bank’s 53rd consecutive 5-Star rating. Bauer rates every federally insured U.S. chartered bank with the same strict standards, and reported that Monson Savings Bank continues to outperform its peers.

 

White Lion Brewing Co. Recognizes Holyoke’s 150th with Special Release

SPRINGFIELD — The city of Holyoke, known as Paper City, is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year. White Lion Brewing Co. collaborated with the city of Holyoke, Explore Holyoke, regional design firm TSM, and Holyoke Craft Beer to create a commemorative label and beer release to celebrate the rich history of the city during its sesquicentennial. Holyoke 150, an American lager, was released during the annual Holyoke Road Race on March 18. Holyoke 150 will be also available at special events and local accounts throughout 2023.

 

BetMGM Launches Mobile Sports Betting in Massachusetts

SPRINGFIELD — BetMGM, a leading sports-betting and iGaming operator, launched its mobile app in Massachusetts, giving customers access to a variety of online betting options and benefits tied to MGM Resorts’ ddestinations nationwide, including MGM Springfield. The BetMGM app gives Massachusetts sports fans the ability to customize pre-game, live in-play, futures, and parlay wagers. Integration with MGM Rewards allows Massachusetts’s BetMGM users to redeem their gameplay for experiences at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. The mobile app complements MGM Springfield’s BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge that opened in January. The space features a 45-foot LED viewing wall and four betting windows, making it easy for guests to access a variety of sports-wagering options. The resort is home to 18 sports-betting kiosks located throughout the gaming area.

 

Square One Creates Alumni Association

SPRINGFIELD — It’s time to go back to Square One, where thousands of young children had their first early-learning experience. Formerly Springfield Day Nursery, Square One has been nurturing and educating infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children since 1883. The agency, now in its 140th year, is looking to gather its program graduates to formalize an alumni group. Alumni are asked to contact to complete a brief questionnaire, which can be found at startatsquareone.org, or email Matt deloria at [email protected] to learn more.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of March 2023.

AMHERST

Alice Buckner Consulting
85 Crossbrook Ave.
Alice Buckner

Amherst Extensions & Beauty Salon
460 West St.
Yasmin Brandford

Bouvier Grant Group
30 Autumn Lane
Margaret Bouvier

Doctorbird LLC
26 South Prospect St., #7
Khama Ennis

Intentional Health LLC
26 South Prospect St., #7
Khama Ennis

Rivershed Farm
132 Pelham Road
Mark Rutkowski

BELCHERTOWN

Northeast Green
21 Plaza Ave.
George Hassenfratz

Rustic Logging & Tree Service Co.
230 Old Enfield Road
Russell Scott Jr.

CHICOPEE

7th Ave. Designs
91 7th Ave.
Thomas LaFleur

Abundant Wellness
665 Prospect St., Suite 1
Deborah Boulanger

Ashley Homestore
1441 Memorial Dr.
Susan Halvarson

Caron Construction
11 Freedom St.
Scott Caron

Cruz Notary Service
1316 Memorial Dr.
Edgardo Cruz Ortiz

D2 Cleaning Services
627 Chicopee St.
Prossy Drinkwine, Thomas Drinkwine

Live Love Hair
129 Church St.
Betsy Cotto, Lilliana Rosario Santana

Partyka Resource Management Cos. Inc.
495 Springfield St.
Joan Partyka, John Krzeminski Jr.

Resident Apartments
690 Chicopee St.
Wayzaro Mills

Sweet Moments Ultrasound Studio Inc.
246 Montcalm St., Suite 2C
Cenea Velasquez

Two Hands Construction LLC
24 Baril Lane
Edwin Morales

EASTHAMPTON

Artisan Builders and Craftsmen
19 Plain St.
Aaron Scott

The Giving Tree of Massage & Reiki
247 Northampton St., Suite 8
Janna Mangini

Joyful Valley Coaching
11 Water St.
Sarah Schmidt

Mark Nomad
9 Reservation Road
Mark Maulucci

Salon Avanti
186 Northampton St.
Michelle Finnessey

Tip Top Wine Shop
150 Pleasant St., #155
Miranda Brown, Lauren Clark

EAST LONGMEADOW

A.W. Brown
144 Shaker Road
TBW Inc.

Connecticut Valley Construction
12 Town View Circle
Felix Tranghese

John R. Sweeney Insurance Agency
264 North Main St., #6
John Sweeney

Landmark Realtors
60 North Main St.
Susan Rheaume

Meadows Driving School Inc.
16-20 Baldwin St.
Maria Spear

Picano Landscaping
30 Maynard St.
John Picano

VA Motors
57 Tufts St.
Andrii Fedosh

HADLEY

BodyMind Bodywork & Movement
245 Russell St.
Michele Feldmein

Eversource Energy
55 Russell St.
NSTAR Electric Co.

Generative Leadership Consult
200 Venture Way
Institute for Generative LS LLC

Harbor Freight Tools
303 Russell St.
Harbor Freight Tools USA Inc.

Northwest Auto Sales II
117 Russell St.
Jim Boyle

Steve Lewis Subaru
315 Russell St.
Balise SLS LLC

ZG Motors
249 Russell St.
Armani George

LEE

Berkshire Gal Friday
17 Greylock St.
LivDeAndrea

Berkshire Pet Pals LLC
45 Hartwood Road
Kathy Kergaravat

Berk St. James
80 St. James Ave.
Rebecca Leger

Collins & Sons General Store
100 Meadow St.
Alice Collins

Eddie Bauer LLC
270 Premium Outlets Blvd.
Ron Byers

First Response Outdoor Services
90 Pine St.
Joseph Gardino

Kate Spade
490 Premium Outlets Blvd.
Tapestry Inc.

The Lakehouse Inn
615 Laurel St.
Kurt Inderbitzin

Mind Over Motion
214 West Park St.
Tiffany Wilding-White

MJ Kelly Inc.
3 Main St.
Michael Kelly

Papa Gino’s
370 Stockbridge Road
New England Authentic Eats LLC

S.J. Michael’s Construction
35-2 Housatonic St.
Steven Michaels

Stone Improvements
19 Union St.
Micah Stone

Valley Veterinary Services
920 Pleasant St.
CareVet Massachusetts LLC

Wickham & Daughters
45 David St.
Thomas Wickham

PALMER

A&J Mowing
89 Shearer St.
James Taylor

Amy’s All Natural Soaps
21 Wilbraham St.
Amy Mitchell

Cute Kids Preschool
17 Highland St.
Ghada Ghrear

Demore’s Automotive LLC
1307 Park St.
Michelle Demore

Doc’s Duffle Bag LLC
1085 Park St.
Michael McKenney

Kitchen Table Taxes
65 Jim Ash St.
David Whitney, Melissa Whitney

Palmer Antiques Co-op
1239 South Main St.
Louise Krassler

Repair Services Inc.
145 Boston Road
Robert McNabb

RJ Foskit Building & Remodeling
42 Barker St.
Ronald Foskit

Rondeau’s Dairy Bar
1300 Ware St.
Michael Rondeau

Sensory Solutions Today
3 Carriage Dr.
Kristopher Theriault

TJ’s Pop
1418 North Main St.
Troy Atherton Sr.

The Victorian
1500 North Main St.
Julia Dias

Yankee Flea Market
1311 Park St.
Michael Walker

Ziemba Home Improvments
42 Mechanic St.
Mike Ziemba

PITTSFIELD

Assured Home Renovations
99 Wendell Ave.
Christopher Temkin

AST Scuba
19 Arch St.
AST Scuba Inc.

Berile Environmental Inc.
P.O. Box 607
Mark Barile

Berkshire Custom Apparel
98 Brown St.
Brendan Remillard

Berkshire Mountain Faerie Festival
35 Atwood Ave.
Blackington Artisans Inc.

Berkshire Real Estate Title Examinations
31 Whittier Ave.
Romana Messer

Cove Street Service Inc.
9 Cove St.
Cove Street Service Inc.

Dairy Cone
359 Crane Ave.
Richard Herbert

digitalcarbon
34 James St.
Michael White

The Dungeon’s Edge
15 Atwood Ave.
Ashley Davis

Faateh
253 South St.
Saleem Ahmed

Fresh Start Painters
17 Noble Ave.
Joshua Salas

Gate Management Systems
28 Fairfield St.
Russell Marcus

JEL Construction
31 Wendell Ave.
Estefania Arias Batista

JS Works LLC
91 Elberon Ave.
Jack Salatino

K&M Bowling
555 Dalton Ave.
Kari Mathes

Maggie Sadoway Immigrant Cooperative
97 Edward Ave.
Maria Arias

Marie’s Eatery
146 North St.
Marie’s Eatery Pittsfield LLC

Shelley’s Kitchen
453 South Main St.
Shelley Strizzi

SOUTHAMPTON

Bolduc Farm
48 Russellville Road
Gregoire Bolduc

Renex Construction
133 Middle Road
Valentin Katalnikov

SOUTH HADLEY

Love Leaf Farm
169 Granby Road
Love Leaf Farm LLC

Pioneer Valley Health and Rehabilitation
573 Granby Road
Blupoint Boston Healthcare

WESTFIELD

AG Home Infusion LLC
53 Murray Ave.
Alexander Govor

Buscalabras
18 Margerie St.
Jaime Riano

Citrine Circus Design & Supply
5 Woronoco Ave.
Brianne Zulkiewicz

FL Productions
102 Elm St.
Fong Lee

Greg Mastroianni Electrician
265 Montgomery Road
Greg Mastroianni

Guidance for Inner Peace
5 Noble Ave.
Janice Pagano

Hot Oven Cookies LLC
40 Elm St.
Sheila Coon

Le Buddies Helping Hands
110 Main St.
Althea Carter

Precision Kitchen & Bath
467 Loomis St.
Siarhei Sharbatsevich

Western Mass Demolition Corp.
64 Medeiros Way
Western Mass Demolition Corp.

William H. Fenton Co. Inc.
174 Main St.
William H. Fenton Co. Inc.

VNG Home Improvement
46 Western Ave.
Valeriy Gavrilyuk

WEST SPRINGFIELD

A&A Furniture Repair
32 Partridge Lane
Alan Archambault

Advanced Aesthetics Medi Spa LLC
166 South Blvd.
Yelena Ivanov

Avis Budget Group
2161 Riverdale St.
Matt Rettura

Clarion Motel
1080 Riverdale St.
Shailesh Patel

Exude Relaxation Spa Essentials
107 Lancaster Ave.
Cassandra Price

Jakes JS
481 Brush Hill Ave.
Jake Janis

Parus
766 Main St.
Javat Azizov

Pavel Water Filtration
70 Windsor St.
John Crean

Santana’s Kung-Fu Studio
452 Main St.
Maria Santana

SMD & Associates
343 Birnie Ave.
Suzanne Demers

Soaps Scents & Blessings
73 Peachstone Glen
Alexandra Mason

Super Washing Well Laundry
1126 Union St.
David Cortis

The Venetian Bakery
90 Baldwin St.
Adam Oliveri

WILBRAHAM

Blue Elephant Restaurant LLC
2000 Boston Road
Dan O’Connell, Nuchjaree O’Connell

DIY Productions
4 Chestnut Hill Road
Ryan Visneau

Essential Canine
777 Stony Hill Road
Heather Hitchcock

Fieldcrest Brewing Co. LLC
2343 Boston Road
Adam Field

Filomena’s Gifts
10 Brentwood Dr.
Donna Gregoire

The Flower Shed
95 Post Office Park, #10-11
Jennifer Wands

Home Medics
4 Tall Timber Road
Oussama Awkal

Jessica Hurley
2 Three Rivers Road
Jessica Hurley

Life Care Center of Wilbraham
2399 Boston Road
Dennis Lopata

The Massage Clinic
2341 Boston Road, Unit 301
Anne Ambrose

Mountainbrook Landscaping
27 Mountainbrook Road
Brett Jones

Owen Comeau Farrier
7 Ripley St.
Owen Comeau

Platinum Beverage Services
1070 Glendale Road
Darren Vickery

Te Marie’s Hair Design
40 Dumaine St.
Esther Martinez Munoz

Wilbraham Commons Assoc.
269 Stony Hill Road
Chris Bowden

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

Allard, Marcella
4 Mechanic St.
Monson, MA 01057
Chapter: 13
Date: 02/24/2023

Boileau, Donna
38 Inward Commons
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/14/2023

Casimiro, Maria
13 Weston St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/28/2023

Chernick, Robert A.
53 White Birch Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/15/2023
Damkoehler, Eric G.
67 Park St.
Turners Falls, MA 01376
Chapter: 13
Date: 02/21/2023

Drost, James A.
38 Pine St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/27/2023

Gemme, Richard Bruce
97 New State Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/15/2023

Haddad-Garner, Donna Marie
a/k/a Garner, Donna M.
19 Seminole Dr.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/27/2023

Hartnett, Debra A.
199 Meadow St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/15/2023

Heming, Brittany L.
a/k/a Morrissette, Brittany
12 Doane Road
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/28/2023

Hendricks, Georgia E.
128 Kensington Ave., Apt. 1A
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/17/2023

Henrys Real Estate LLC
Henry, Keino O.
32 Beaumont Ter., Apt. 2
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Date: 02/14/2023

Jean Ebian, Quetty Catherine
153 Westminster St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 02/21/2023

McKinley, Daren G.
1 Belden Court, Unit A4
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/22/2023

Murphy, William F.
60 Saint Lawrence Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/14/2023

Riedle, Aline G.
c/o 3 Aspen Court
Ware, MA 01082
Chapter: 13
Date: 02/22/2023

Robbins, Michelle J.
42 Quarry Hill
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/15/2023

Tardy, Sandra L.
305 Amostown Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 02/27/2023

Real Estate Transactions

By Contributor
Real Estate

The following real estate transactions (latest available) were compiled by Banker & Tradesman and are published as they were received. Only transactions exceeding $115,000 are listed. Buyer and seller fields contain only the first name listed on the deed.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

BUCKLAND

120 Bray Road
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Sarah Davenport
Seller: Shirley H. Demers
Date: 02/22/23

9 Norman Road
Buckland, MA 01330
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Colleen M. Clark
Seller: Marcel International
Date: 02/23/23

ERVING

16 Moore St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Benegan2 LLC
Seller: S. M. Phillips Supplemental
Date: 02/22/23

191 North St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Terrance L. Dunn
Seller: Joseph C. Reed
Date: 03/01/23

GREENFIELD

65 Conway St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $1,400,000
Buyer: Clinical & Support Option
Seller: 60 Wells Street LLC
Date: 03/02/23

186 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Joshua L. Westbrook
Seller: Nils P. Ahbel
Date: 02/21/23

42 Homestead Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Andrews
Seller: Debra S. Andrews
Date: 03/01/23

10 Sanderson St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $201,000
Buyer: Jennifer Farley
Seller: Miller, Peter S., (Estate)
Date: 03/03/23

46 Wells St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $188,425
Buyer: Clinical & Support Option
Seller: Zenun LLC
Date: 03/02/23

60 Wells St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $1,400,000
Buyer: Clinical & Support Option
Seller: 60 Wells Street LLC
Date: 03/02/23

HEATH

172 Route 8A
Heath, MA 01339
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Robert J. Brennan
Seller: Janet R. Giard
Date: 02/28/23

MONTAGUE

140 7th St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Daniel Lederer
Seller: Pinette, Brian Edmund, (Estate)
Date: 02/22/23

87 K St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: J. M. Dinsmore-Lafrance
Seller: Eugene Milewski
Date: 03/01/23

465 Millers Falls Road
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $239,000
Buyer: Joseph Reed
Seller: Jane E. Dion
Date: 03/01/23

NORTHFIELD

21 Meadow St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: MW & MW Realty LLC
Seller: Frank B. Podlenski
Date: 03/03/23

16 South Mountain Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Todd Lescarbeau
Seller: 16 South Mountain RT
Date: 02/27/23

ORANGE

232 East Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Tyler Q. Grossman
Seller: My Jireh Properties LLC
Date: 02/24/23

308 East Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: L5 Development LLC
Seller: Cascade Funding Mtg. TR HB4
Date: 03/01/23

232 East River St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Lawrence Matchem
Seller: Forrest A. Calder
Date: 02/28/23

124 Mechanic St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $287,500
Buyer: David L. Lincoln
Seller: Jacob R. Paul
Date: 02/28/23

SHELBURNE

30 Bridge St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Hanna Inv Group LLC
Seller: Kenneth H. Chaffee
Date: 02/28/23

SHUTESBURY

29 Ladyslipper Lane
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $222,208
Buyer: Stanwich Mortgage Loan TF
Seller: Christopher G. Burnett
Date: 03/02/23

WARWICK

Northfield Road, Lot 11
Warwick, MA 01364
Amount: $117,000
Buyer: Joseph Giarusso
Seller: Gary A. Salamone
Date: 02/24/23

WHATELY

Christian Lane (off)
Whately, MA 01093
Amount: $6,628,005
Buyer: Full Bloom Market Garden LLC
Seller: Mustang Whately Investments LLC
Date: 03/02/23

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

30 Alhambra Circle North
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $278,000
Buyer: Andrew J. Racette
Seller: Barbara J. Souliere
Date: 02/28/23

87 Anthony St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $314,000
Buyer: Ryan C. Dustin
Seller: Ivan Carrasquillo
Date: 02/21/23

2 Belmont Ave.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Jeremy Mutti
Seller: Gail M. Almquist
Date: 02/27/23

60 Maynard St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Thomas E. Gilroy
Seller: Carey, Helen J., (Estate)
Date: 02/28/23

47 Howard St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $227,500
Buyer: Melissa Surprise
Seller: Debra A. Ceccarini
Date: 02/21/23

19 Meadowbrook Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Michelle M. Macklin
Seller: Christopher Nascembeni
Date: 02/21/23

33 Perry Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Ryan Hayward
Seller: Andrey Kaletin
Date: 02/23/23

62 Ramah Circle North
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: 62 Ramah Circle LLC
Seller: Joseph F. Dempsey
Date: 02/24/23

47-49 Royal St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Seller: Westerly TR
Date: 03/03/23

42 South Brooke Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Kelly S. Nouwen
Seller: Kelly, Nancy Comery, (Estate)
Date: 02/21/23

268 South Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Amanda J. Robare
Seller: Bethany A. Tangredi
Date: 03/01/23

192 Shoemaker Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Asila LLC
Seller: Joseph S. Schlaffer
Date: 02/24/23

CHICOPEE

94 9th Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $154,000
Buyer: Milton J. Theriault
Seller: Glenn A. Tunis
Date: 02/28/23

59 Artisan St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: BD Geffin LLC
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 03/03/23

144 Ashgrove St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Shannon M. O’Connell
Seller: Edward A. Leblanc
Date: 02/22/23

175 Beauregard Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $385,792
Buyer: RMS Series T2020-1
Seller: David Hall
Date: 02/24/23

65 Bonneville Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Hassan Saleh
Seller: Lisa B. Marques
Date: 02/24/23

250 Britton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Kevin C. Dimitropolis
Seller: Richard A. Funk
Date: 03/02/23

35 Center St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $1,250,000
Buyer: 35 Center St. Chicopee LLC
Seller: 35 Center Street RT
Date: 03/01/23

27 Charbonneau Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $369,000
Buyer: Graciano Ortiz
Seller: LP Properties LLC
Date: 02/21/23

954 Chicopee St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Juan C. Cornejo
Seller: Luciano Santos
Date: 02/27/23

36 Fuller St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Serdar Turkmen
Seller: Sergeo V. Arbuzov
Date: 02/28/23

28 Glendale St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Janet L. Stadnicki
Seller: Gallagher Cap Group LLC
Date: 02/23/23

33 Guyotte Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $131,000
Buyer: Cheyenne Rose
Seller: Gary P. Biela
Date: 02/24/23

27 Hearthstone Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $176,000
Buyer: Marek Dazblaz
Seller: PHH Mortgage Corp.
Date: 03/01/23

55 McCarthy Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Revampit LLC
Seller: Marilyn E. Mars
Date: 03/03/23

36 Montvue St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $166,500
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Susan Smith
Date: 02/28/23

56 Mount Vernon Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Christopher Nascembeni
Seller: Paul W. Gajda
Date: 02/22/23

15 Nora St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $223,000
Buyer: Daniel T. Maciolek
Seller: Daniel D. Maciolek
Date: 03/01/23

1 Saint James Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $2,291,333
Buyer: WG 2023 LLC
Seller: Walgreen Eastern Co. Inc.
Date: 03/03/23

73 Searles St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Jarvis Irt
Seller: Susan M. Gustafson
Date: 02/23/23

64-66 Shepherd St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Masshousing LLC
Seller: Volodymyr Boyko
Date: 02/27/23

78 Skeele St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Richard Dunn
Seller: Gouin, Lauria A., (Estate)
Date: 02/21/23

61 Van Horn St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Jesus F. Trinidad
Seller: Congamond Management LLC
Date: 02/21/23

43 West St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Blackrock Bng Group LLC
Seller: Anglejoy Co. LLC
Date: 03/02/23

EAST LONGMEADOW

153 Chestnut St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Jaime L. Hernandez
Seller: Douglas Dichard
Date: 02/22/23

143 Kibbe Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Bryan Kaselouskas
Seller: Joseph T. Pastreck
Date: 03/03/23

198 Maple St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: John J. Ryan
Seller: Louis A. Calabrese
Date: 02/21/23

566 Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $446,000
Buyer: Ryan Conn
Seller: Cig3 LLC
Date: 03/02/23

257 Pease Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $378,000
Buyer: Steven Valentino
Seller: Bank Of America
Date: 02/28/23

397 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Stacy C. Elms
Seller: Jennifer M. Darcy
Date: 02/28/23

20 Sherwood Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Keith Polci
Seller: Cheryl T. Turgeon
Date: 02/28/23

14 Theresa St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Valerie Keller
Seller: RL&LL Pasquale IRT
Date: 03/01/23

14 Van Dyke Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Andre Harper
Seller: Erica Harp
Date: 02/27/23

35 Westernview Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Andrew J. Famiglietti
Seller: April S. Mills
Date: 03/02/23

GRANVILLE

1442 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Flavia Robotti
Seller: Secretary Of Housing & Urban
Date: 03/01/23

388 South Lane
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Kokoleka RT
Seller: Joseph Walsh
Date: 03/02/23

HAMPDEN

37 Allen St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $238,000
Buyer: David Chapdelaine
Seller: Chapdelaine Realty Inc.
Date: 02/23/23

83 Allen St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Guy Libiszewski
Seller: Gary A. Baribeau IRT
Date: 02/23/23

119 East Longmeadow Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Samuel Loretta
Seller: Robert Gossman
Date: 02/24/23

44 Hollow Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $652,000
Buyer: Maxwell R. Fisk
Seller: David A. Proulx
Date: 03/02/23

601 Main St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Aaron C. Pitrat
Seller: Jeanne A. McKenna
Date: 02/28/23

33 North Monson Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Gerald J. Tessier
Seller: Pamela B. Courtney
Date: 02/21/23

HOLLAND

5 Inlet Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: James Votzakis
Seller: Daniel Burns
Date: 02/24/23

HOLYOKE

5 Adams St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,319,930
Buyer: High Apartments LLC
Seller: 33 34 Van Cort LLC
Date: 03/03/23

323 Elm St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Victoria Delia
Seller: Amelia Serrano
Date: 02/21/23

54 Gates St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $189,987
Buyer: Francis Yarra
Seller: Varakas RT
Date: 02/23/23

688 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $1,092,570
Buyer: High Apartments LLC
Seller: 688 High LLC
Date: 03/03/23

20 Highland Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Leslie Decristofaro
Seller: Daniel P. McCavick
Date: 02/24/23

24-26 Sydney Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Michael Dion
Seller: Moore, Sarah Mary, (Estate)
Date: 02/22/23

LONGMEADOW

29 Crescent Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $357,000
Buyer: Daniel J. Avissato
Seller: John M. Kirkpatrick
Date: 02/24/23

901 Frank Smith Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Antonio M. Fonseca
Seller: Torff, Sora K., (Estate)
Date: 03/02/23

58 Hazardville Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Buffalo LLC
Seller: Robert D. Spaulding LT
Date: 03/02/23

83 Longfellow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $412,295
Buyer: Lakeview Loan Servicing
Seller: Christina A. Knybel
Date: 02/27/23

33 Williston Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $506,000
Buyer: Adam A. Berg
Seller: John M. Riordan
Date: 02/28/23

LUDLOW

39 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Dequan R. Thompson
Seller: James R. Carvalho
Date: 03/01/23

441 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Vincent Serrazina
Seller: Martins, Maria C., (Estate)
Date: 03/01/23

26 Grant St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Converse
Seller: Christopher Dynak
Date: 02/23/23

434 Miller St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Alyssa L. Santucci
Seller: Todd M. Nareau
Date: 02/22/23

73 Napoleon Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $284,900
Buyer: Samuel Pettinger
Seller: Edward L. Lafromboise
Date: 02/28/23

97 Turning Leaf Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $179,900
Buyer: Robert Sullivan
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 02/28/23

96 Yale St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $228,900
Buyer: Katie E. Czarniecki
Seller: Arturo Aguillon
Date: 03/03/23

MONSON

36 Main St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Carol J. Damico
Seller: Real Estate Investment Northeast
Date: 03/03/23

20 Thayer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Rehab Home Buyers LLC
Seller: Eric R. Meffen
Date: 03/03/23

114 Upper Palmer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Mark W. Anderton
Seller: Alexus Bolanos
Date: 03/02/23

4 Zuell Hill Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Eugene H. Stroh
Seller: Brandi M. Kane
Date: 03/01/23

PALMER

364-368 Boston Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Justin T. Benoit
Seller: Joshua R. Benoit
Date: 02/23/23

Bridge St., Lot A1
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Demon Deacon Realty LLC
Seller: Mortgage Realty LLP
Date: 02/24/23

Bridge St., Lot A2
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Demon Deacon Realty LLC
Seller: Mortgage Realty LLP
Date: 02/24/23

5 Deborah St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Kendrick S. McKee
Seller: Mary R. Laviolette
Date: 03/02/23

 

17 Lathrop St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Michael R. Larzazs
Seller: Gary M. Larzazs
Date: 03/03/23

1382-1388 Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Demon Deacon Realty LLC
Seller: Mortgage Realty LLP
Date: 02/24/23

116 Nipmuck St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $557,000
Buyer: Theodore A. Mora
Seller: Terence A. Blair
Date: 02/28/23

45-47 South St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $302,000
Buyer: Manuel S. Puyen-Roche
Seller: Kendrick S. McKee
Date: 03/02/23

1140 Thorndike St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $925,000
Buyer: Admass 4 LLC
Seller: Gary Wolf
Date: 03/01/23

53 Vicardav Ave.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Jemima Boating
Seller: Marisol Aponte
Date: 03/03/23

21 Wilbraham St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Ham Ivestment Realty LLC
Seller: Edward R. Greenbaum
Date: 02/24/23

SPRINGFIELD

49 Ambrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $238,000
Buyer: Jesse D. Freeman
Seller: Samantha E. Hahn-Clark
Date: 02/24/23

1060 Bay St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $1,875,000
Buyer: National Retail Properties LP
Seller: Oliver Auto Body Realco
Date: 02/24/23

47 Beauregard St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Yuranis Hernandez
Seller: Rebecca Stratos
Date: 03/02/23

28 Birch Glen Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jesus Vazquez
Seller: Sean M. Geaghan
Date: 02/21/23

141 Birchland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $284,000
Buyer: William A. MacKinnon
Seller: Adam M. Provost
Date: 02/24/23

70 Canterbury Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: David R. Kern
Seller: Melro Associates Inc.
Date: 02/28/23

16 Carlisle St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $212,900
Buyer: Chris D. Feliz
Seller: Waiwai RT
Date: 02/24/23

80 Carnavon Circle
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Marcus A. Starks
Seller: Thomas J. Garvey
Date: 02/23/23

145 Chapin Ter.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Sheyla Acosta-Rosario
Seller: Ana Andino
Date: 02/22/23

16-18 Cherry St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Hector L. Vazquez-Mejia
Seller: Jmx Ii TR
Date: 03/01/23

657 Cooley St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Pamela Bryant
Seller: BHR Properties LLC
Date: 03/01/23

5 County St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Ernest Rental LLC
Seller: Fallah Razzak
Date: 02/28/23

597-615 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: MSH Properties LLC
Seller: Rizvan A. Merza
Date: 03/02/23

256 Draper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Meghan L. Tolley
Seller: Lamoureux, Mirjam, (Estate)
Date: 02/24/23

20 Drexel St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $191,500
Buyer: Dnepro Properties LLC
Seller: Patrick R. Meade
Date: 02/22/23

135 Dubois St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Joshua Romer
Seller: Bay Flow LLC
Date: 03/03/23

23-25 Edgewood St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $306,000
Buyer: Wilfredo Gonzalez
Seller: Alexander L. Freire
Date: 02/24/23

35 Eton St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Narya N. Waring
Seller: Platinum Homes LLC
Date: 02/22/23

47 Fenwick St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Jacqueline A. Ferguson
Seller: Philip Panidis
Date: 03/02/23

25 Ferncliff Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Smails LLC
Seller: Funai, Pauline Agnes, (Estate)
Date: 03/03/23

131 Florida St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $615,000
Buyer: SRK Realty LLC
Seller: BTS Realty LLC
Date: 03/01/23

37 Forest St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Rehab Home Buyers LLC
Seller: Joseph M. Santaniello
Date: 02/22/23

242 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Daviau & Robert Properties LLC
Seller: Opus Durum LLC
Date: 02/27/23

98 Gatewood Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Bhavinibahen R. Patel
Seller: Eduardo Quinteros
Date: 03/01/23

259 Gillette Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $147,000
Buyer: Sarah A. Sypek
Seller: Andrea J. Dangelo
Date: 03/03/23

35 Helberg Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Alexandra Hamilton
Seller: Alexis W. Bradley
Date: 02/24/23

62 Homestead Ave.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $161,000
Buyer: Robert Bearce
Seller: David W. Bearce
Date: 02/28/23

43 Hudson St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Mariel D. Toeo
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 02/28/23

150 Jamaica St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: James E. Menard
Seller: W. P. Lemieux
Date: 03/03/23

77 Johnson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Michael A. Raiford
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 02/23/23

282-286 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Elona Capital LLC
Seller: Wamhkm LLC
Date: 02/21/23

76 Marble St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Real Estate Investments Northeast
Seller: Real Estate Investments Northeast LLC
Date: 03/02/23

36 McBride St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $218,000
Buyer: Julio Rodriguez
Seller: Charles Elfman
Date: 02/28/23

94 Monmouth St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Jose Nunez
Seller: Uziel Q. Martinez-Barrios
Date: 02/27/23

181 Newton Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Justin L. Deconti
Seller: Keith O. Davies
Date: 02/24/23

200 Newton Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Keith O. Davies
Seller: Natalie A. Jurgen TR
Date: 02/24/23

30 Norman St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Martha Victorio
Seller: Carmen Pabon
Date: 02/22/23

121-123 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Gabriel Rodriguez
Seller: Panther Development LLC
Date: 03/03/23

36 Orleans St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Ali H. Abdraba
Seller: Natixis Real Estate Capital TR 2007-He2
Date: 02/23/23

1698 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Scott J. Heim
Seller: Michael Stewart
Date: 02/28/23

173 Pendleton Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $143,000
Buyer: Isidoro R. Sanchez
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 02/23/23

296 Quincy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Ileana C. Rodriguez
Seller: London Realty LLC
Date: 02/21/23

75 Rowland St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Jennifer M. Reyes
Seller: Julian Navarro
Date: 02/22/23

75 Saffron Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $181,000
Buyer: Zachary Yacteen
Seller: Lazetta McCoy
Date: 02/24/23

160 Shady Brook Lane
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Dustin Marchinkoski
Seller: Heather M. Leone
Date: 02/24/23

 

128 Shawmut St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Arista M. Parillo
Seller: Andrew Famiglietti
Date: 03/02/23

1017-1019 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Abdi Adan
Seller: Lil As Property Mgmt. LLC
Date: 02/24/23

151 Switzer Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Patricia D. McKenzie
Seller: Silversnake Properties LLC
Date: 03/03/23

135 Tavistock St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $169,900
Buyer: Belinda L. Wilson
Seller: Zachary D. Vollinger
Date: 02/24/23

85 Upland St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Altagracia F. Torres
Seller: Krzysztof Letowski
Date: 03/01/23

113 Vermont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Sunflower Property Inc.
Seller: STV Realty LLC
Date: 03/03/23

188 Wachusett St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Amelia Serrano
Seller: Z. I. Sanabria-Rodriguez
Date: 02/21/23

64-66 Wallace St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Erick C. Weber
Seller: Ramon Rivera
Date: 03/01/23

64-66 Wallace St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $134,000
Buyer: Ramon Rivera
Seller: Thomas L. Bretta
Date: 03/01/23

31 Washburn St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jovanny Cartagena
Seller: JJJ17 LLC
Date: 02/28/23

211 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Luis J. Cabreja-Hidalgo
Seller: Janet Davidson
Date: 02/24/23

48 Wilmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $279,900
Buyer: Jason Stallone
Seller: Cindy Guzman
Date: 02/21/23

1403 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $178,970
Buyer: Truman 2016 SC6 Title TR
Seller: Darryl Leclair
Date: 03/01/23

SOUTHWICK

94 Foster Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Baker Commodities Inc.
Seller: Plakias Real Estate Holdings LLC
Date: 02/28/23

61 Hastings Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $128,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: PHH Mortgage Corp.
Date: 02/28/23

2 Tall Pines Trail
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $620,000
Buyer: Anthony Kruge
Seller: Hamelin Framing Inc.
Date: 03/01/23

WESTFIELD

630 East Mountain Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Michael Pelc
Seller: Mary A. Fravesi
Date: 02/28/23

1214 East Mountain Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Janelle Aieta
Seller: Matthew Pittenger
Date: 02/23/23

74 East Silver St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Cariel Lewis
Seller: Johnathan Spear
Date: 02/28/23

33 Fowler Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $283,000
Buyer: Kevin Suffriti
Seller: Cody Livingston
Date: 02/28/23

12 Grand St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $235,750
Buyer: JLR Brothers Properties LLC
Seller: Marvon Construction & Development Inc.
Date: 03/02/23

46 Grandview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Keith M. Evans
Seller: Mary-Louise Dazelle
Date: 02/24/23

27 Hampden St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Rene Gauthier
Seller: Nimchick Jr., Paul W., (Estate)
Date: 03/01/23

17 Lincoln St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Meyer Attias
Seller: Hing-Lun Chong
Date: 02/24/23

32 Montgomery St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Tatyana Mokan
Seller: Patricia Mahoney
Date: 02/24/23

114 Otis St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: JLR Brothers Properties LLC
Seller: Marvon Construction & Development Inc.
Date: 03/02/23

155 Yeoman Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Damien Roberts
Seller: Jaret E. Bednaz
Date: 02/24/23

WILBRAHAM

22 Brainard Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $313,000
Buyer: Frank Kulig
Seller: Jennifer L. Gay
Date: 02/24/23

227 Burleigh Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jennifer Danielson
Seller: Kathleen A. Farrell
Date: 02/27/23

7 Ladd Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $427,000
Buyer: Nabil Tavarez
Seller: Bart Soar
Date: 02/27/23

1 Lee Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $399,000
Buyer: Kathaleen Provost
Seller: Thomas S. Manzi
Date: 02/24/23

9 Red Bridge Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: CRK Estates LLC
Seller: Gleason Realty Co. Under TR
Date: 02/24/23

444 Ridge Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $157,000
Buyer: Nathan D. Riddle
Seller: Alexandra Riddle
Date: 03/01/23

359 Springfield St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Kyle G. Beaudreault
Seller: John F. Tenczar
Date: 03/01/23

5 Squire Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $810,000
Buyer: Eamon Kearney
Seller: Grahams Construction Inc.
Date: 03/01/23

945 Tinkham Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $338,000
Buyer: Peter W. Chiumiento
Seller: Michael Pope
Date: 02/24/23

WEST SPRINGFIELD

29 Clara St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Margaret F. Desmarais
Seller: Jerome D. McCarthy
Date: 02/28/23

49-51 Prospect Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Sandy E. Romero-Leones
Seller: Barbara D. Theroux
Date: 02/28/23

80 Riverdale St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $158,500
Buyer: Fatima Apartments LLC
Seller: Wells Fargo Bank
Date: 03/02/23

40 Riverview Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Jacob Hannoush
Seller: Danielle R. Deangelo
Date: 02/28/23

64 Roanoke Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $1,110,800
Buyer: 64 Roanoke LLC
Seller: Horsesandhouses LLC
Date: 03/03/23

Sand Hill Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Amanda R. Putnam
Seller: B9 Industries Inc.
Date: 02/24/23

2383 Westfield St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $147,900
Buyer: Grey Horse Holdings Inc.
Seller: Heidi TR
Date: 03/01/23

21 Worcester St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $232,000
Buyer: Jonathan Pignataro
Seller: Katelyn M. Crogan
Date: 03/01/23

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

32 Aubinwood Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $668,000
Buyer: McColpin & Archer FT
Seller: Terry, Linda L., (Estate)
Date: 03/02/23

429 Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $735,000
Buyer: Scott C. Fleener
Seller: Victoria Risk
Date: 03/03/23

8 Hillcrest Place
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Justin C. Ching
Seller: Wolnik, Walter Joseph, (Estate)
Date: 02/24/23

100 Larkspur Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Danielle Orchard
Seller: Magdalena Olive
Date: 03/01/23

1611 South East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $960,000
Buyer: John & Deborah May FT
Seller: David R. Buchanan RET
Date: 03/03/23

179 Wildflower Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $810,500
Buyer: C. E. Kindervatter-Clark
Seller: Christina Weston-Smith
Date: 03/01/23

BELCHERTOWN

170 Metacomet St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Benjamin L. Wilder
Seller: Gary Stones Remodeling LL
Date: 03/01/23

212 Rockrimmon St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: Garrett R. Demers
Seller: Carol A. Griffeth
Date: 02/22/23

13 Sargent St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Kristopher J. Ventura
Seller: Thomas W. McRae
Date: 03/03/23

5 Woodland Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: George Harp
Seller: Andrey Korchevskiy
Date: 02/28/23

CHESTERFIELD

1 River Road
Chesterfield, MA 01012
Amount: $429,000
Buyer: Matthew C. Pittenger
Seller: Charlotte Summers
Date: 02/24/23

EASTHAMPTON

6 Doody Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Yesenia L. Hostetter
Seller: Gerard McCook
Date: 02/23/23

233 Loudville Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $529,900
Buyer: Margaret Kaiser
Seller: New England Remodeling
Date: 03/03/23

16 Lyman St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Elizabeth R. Lebling
Seller: Cheryl A. Thomas-Camp
Date: 03/02/23

GOSHEN

5-B Wildwood Lane
Goshen, MA 01032
Amount: $142,000
Buyer: Julia Shippee
Seller: Jared D. Mallet
Date: 03/02/23

GRANBY

213 Amherst St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $125,525
Buyer: Walter Frederics
Seller: Ievgenii Gusiev
Date: 02/24/23

26 Baggs Hill Road
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Josh E. Dufresne
Seller: Easton, Ronald W., (Estate)
Date: 02/28/23

3 Sherwood Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: David Scott
Seller: Marc A. Cormier
Date: 02/24/23

14 Sherwood Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $254,750
Buyer: Bridger R. Neveu
Seller: Ervin G. Meimerstorf
Date: 02/22/23

HADLEY

7 Hadley Place
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Tuan Nguyen
Seller: Marilyn R. Murphy
Date: 03/03/23

303 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $837,500
Buyer: Bar Hadley LLC
Seller: 303 Russell Street LLC
Date: 03/02/23

305 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Bar Hadley LLC
Seller: Frontage Inc.
Date: 03/02/23

315 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $3,000,000
Buyer: Bar Hadley LLC
Seller: 315 Russell Street LLC
Date: 03/02/23

HATFIELD

1 Elm St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: 1 Elm Street Property LLC
Seller: John M. Holhut
Date: 02/28/23

HUNTINGTON

210 Worthington Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $374,125
Buyer: Sharon French
Seller: Noel W. Kenney
Date: 02/24/23

NORTHAMPTON

12 Drewsen Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $323,500
Buyer: Heather M. Goodenough
Seller: Amanda B. Ashton
Date: 02/22/23

30 Powell St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $341,500
Buyer: Patricia L. Sipe
Seller: Jeffrey R. Vanasse
Date: 02/23/23

92 Sandy Hill Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $168,750
Buyer: Michael W. O’Brien
Seller: Christine M. O’Brien
Date: 02/27/23

12 Vernon St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $510,000
Buyer: Michele L. Ruschhaupt
Seller: Thomas E. Borawski
Date: 02/27/23

PLAINFIELD

426 West Main St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $143,151
Buyer: Stanwich Mortgage Loan TR
Seller: Michele L. Bagdonas
Date: 02/21/23

615 West Main St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $256,000
Buyer: Mystie Ford
Seller: Michael J. Slocum
Date: 03/03/23

SOUTH HADLEY

26 Alvord St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Jane K. Weakley
Seller: David R. Adams
Date: 03/03/23

15 Chileab Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Steven Segore
Seller: Lowell W. Gudmundson
Date: 02/24/23

29 Fairlawn St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Joseph E. Tavares
Seller: Robert E. Grammo
Date: 03/02/23

24-28 Gaylord St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $7,150,000
Buyer: Hadley Gaylord LLC
Seller: Wbcmt 2007-C33 Gaylord St.
Date: 03/01/23

24-28 Gaylord St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $7,150,000
Buyer: Hadley Gaylord LLC
Seller: Wbcmt 2007-C33 Gaylord St.
Date: 03/01/23

28 Lawn St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Phillip A. Brecher
Seller: Lee R. Savage
Date: 02/27/23

1 Lesperance Court
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Michael Cowan
Seller: Robert J. Schroeter
Date: 02/24/23

126 Main St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: South Hadley Falls LLC
Seller: Barbara J. Knightly
Date: 02/28/23

7 Prospect St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $7,150,000
Buyer: Hadley Gaylord LLC
Seller: Wbcmt 2007-C33 Gaylord St.
Date: 03/01/23

41 South St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Jose M. Buscan
Seller: Lsrmf MH Master Part TR
Date: 02/27/23

SOUTHAMPTON

11 Cold Spring Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Thomas S. Avila
Seller: Joseph T. Moynahan LT
Date: 02/28/23

373 College Hwy.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $605,000
Buyer: Vitaly Divnich
Seller: Mathieu J. Tebo
Date: 02/28/23

82 Crooked Ledge Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $548,000
Buyer: Eugene R. Labrie
Seller: Robin B. Buckingham
Date: 03/02/23

10 Susan Dr.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Daniel Phillips
Seller: K. J. & Jill M. Malo
Date: 02/24/23

WARE

107 Church St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Claire C. Purgus
Seller: Stephen M. Burns
Date: 02/28/23

39 Homecrest Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Katherine M. Sarrasin
Seller: Karl A. Beaumier
Date: 03/01/23

WILLIAMSBURG

52 Briar Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $171,500
Buyer: Jameson Conz
Seller: Gloria I. Cross
Date: 03/03/23

WORTHINGTON

567 Huntington Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Albert G. Nugent
Seller: Albert G. Nugent
Date: 02/21/23

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of March 2023.

CHICOPEE

Fleet Bank of Massachusetts
638 Memorial Dr.
$48,987.29 — Exterior renovation: replace exterior ceiling tile at both entrances and drive-up overhangs, install two new bollards on sidewalk in front of entrance, powerwash entire building exterior, touch painting on curbs where needed, refresh current landscaping and add two new shrubs, remove existing decorative metal lattice trim from two sign locations, remove or reroute exposed conduit at various locations on sides of building

Main Street Property
340 McKinstry Ave., Unit 400
$73,335 — Add exterior loading-dock structure to existing loading-dock area

James McNeill
269 Chicopee St., Unit 16
$5,212 — Remove and replace four windows

Joaquin Rodriguez
1098 Chicopee St.
$5,000 — Install sheetrock in remodeled garage, install fire door

EASTHAMPTON

Michael Banas
63-65 Main St.
N/A — Attic insulation

Willison Northampton School
90 Park St.
N/A — Locker-room renovations

HADLEY

Floranine LLC
285 Russell St.
N/A — Install wet chemical fire-suppression system

Home Depot USA Inc.
358 Russell St.
N/A — Abate and replace rotting exterior framing members

LEE

723 School Street LLC
232 Main St.
$20,000 — Insulate attic and walls

Holiday Inn Club Vacations Inc.
190 Meadow St.
$1,500 — Add four walls to make three storage areas in sales-center basement

LENOX

CR Resorts LLC
165 Kemble St.
$975,000 — Re-roof tennis courts at Canyon Ranch

Lenox Collection LLC
16 Church St.
$79,000 — Install sprinkler system on floors without fire protection

NORTHAMPTON

25 Williams LLC
25 Williams St.
$8,000 — Insulation and weatherization

1924 LLC
49 Round Hill Road
$80,000 — Selective interior demolition at Coolidge Hall to prepare for future remodel

Aster Associates LLC
80 Barrett St.
$21,000 — Build structure for basement egress

Blue Mountain Properties LLC
76 Maple St.
$15,000 — Add bathroom to yoga studio and ADA bathroom to coffee shop

City of Northampton
80 Locust St.
$99,671 — Repairs to storage building at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School

ES 21 Center Street LLC
21 Center St.
$5,000 — Repairs to walls

Massachusetts Audubon Society LLC
36 Hampden St.
N/A — Install sprinkler system

Northampton Community Music Center Inc.
139 South St.
$248,227 — Window replacement and addition of vestibule

Pioneer Valley Ventures LLC
52 Maple St.
$40,000 — Install roof-mounted solar system

Trident Realty Corp.
15 Hawley St., Unit G
$21,500 — Replace drywall, repair stairs

W&N Summer LLC
55 South Park Terrace
$2,000 — Insulation and weatherization

Workroom Design Studio
14 Green St.
$19,800 — Fit-out for design studio showroom

PITTSFIELD

Lee Bank
180 South St.
$6,500 — Install maintenance shed on existing dumpster pad

Thimot Marifant
251 Second St.
$17,049 — Roofing

One Twenty Onota Street LLC
53 West Union St.
$6,428 — Install fire-alarm system to monitor sprinkler system

SPRINGFIELD

125 Paridon Street LLC
125 Paridon St.
$35,000 — Remove and replace 12 AT&T antennas

Tina Chandler
1206 Boston Road
$75,500 — Interior renovation of dentist office, remove and replace 14 windows, repair chimney

Shiv Shiv Corp.
1356 Boston Road
$6,000 — Install new framing and joist hangers for exterior overhang ceiling on Howard Johnson detached building

Shiv Shiv Corp.
1356 Boston Road
$6,000 — Install new framing and joist hangers for exterior overhang ceiling on Howard Johnson main building

Tim Smith
1755 Boston Road
$126,392 — Roofing at Falcetti Music

Eversource Top Energy Company in Barron’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies for 2023

By
Daily News

BOSTON — For the fourth consecutive year, Eversource Energy has been recognized by Barron’s on its list of America’s 100 Most Sustainable Companies, appearing as the top utility in the annual ranking for the second time in the last three years. Eversource’s rank also improved significantly to 17th overall on this year’s list from 40th last year, reflecting the strides the company has made in executing its strategic commitment to sustainability throughout its operations.

“This recognition is a testament of Eversource’s deep commitment to and the hard work of our employees in building a more sustainable and equitable future for our customers, our communities, and the world we all share,” Eversource Chairman, President, and CEO Joseph Nolan said. “Sustainability and strong environmental, social, and governance principles are embedded in all that we do, which will continue to serve as the foundation of our vision for providing safe, reliable service and meeting the future energy needs of our customers.”

The Barron’s list of 100 Most Sustainable Companies is based on more than 230 environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) metrics. To create the ranking, the top 1,000 publicly traded companies by market value were evaluated by how they performed for five key constituencies — customers, communities, employees, the planet, and shareholders — looking at ESG performance indicators such as workplace diversity, data security, and greenhouse-gas emissions. To qualify for the list, a company must be rated above the bottom quarter in each of the five stakeholder categories.

Baystate Health Hires Westmass to Assist with Next Steps for Mary Lane

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Westmass Area Development Corp. will partner with Baystate Health to assist in the decommissioning of the Baystate Mary Lane facility in the town of Ware. Westmass will work as Baystate Health’s project manager and perform work related to evaluating current conditions of the buildings on the campus and developing strategies in coordination with qualified contractors. In addition, staff at Westmass will meet regularly with town officials and departments regarding ongoing project work being done at Baystate Mary Lane Outpatient Center and will take the lead in securing necessary permits for any work conducted on site.

The last three services located at Baystate Mary Lane will move to Baystate Wing Hospital by December 2023, according to Ron Bryant, president of Baystate Health Regional Hospitals.

“I am pleased Westmass has already begun their outreach to the town of Ware to inform them of Baystate Health’s plans and necessary work at Mary Lane prior to our exit from the facility at the end of this year,” Bryant said. “We continue our commitment to support the town of Ware and the surrounding communities.”

Bryant meets monthly with volunteer members serving on Baystate Wing Hospital’s Community Benefits Advisory Council, which includes community members and service agencies from Ware and area communities who provide their input to guide continued investment in support of community-health needs in Ware and throughout the Eastern Region.

Westmass and Baystate Health have communicated with the town timelines for abatement work to be conducted in some of the vacant buildings and will submit a permit later this month for the demolition of the facility. The demolition permit process in the town of Ware can take up to nine months for final approval, and, as such, it is unlikely any actual demolition will occur prior to early 2024.

Concurrently, discussions between Baystate Health, Westmass, and the town of Ware regarding future use of the parcel will be evaluated in the months ahead.

“Given the expertise Westmass holds in project development strategies,” Bryant said, “our hope is that interests will align with all parties as discussions continue in the months to come.”

Bay Path University Launches Master of Science in Nursing Program

By
Daily News

LONGMEADOW — In response to the growing demand for nurse practioners, educators, and administrators, Bay Path University has announced its fully online, new master of science in nursing (MSN) program, which will begin accepting nursing candidates for the fall 2023 semester.

For many patients, one of the more than 4 million nurses who currently practice in the U.S. will be at their side during their healthcare journey. Their importance is further magnified as they make up the largest group of healthcare professionals in our nation. However, across the U.S., there is a shortage of nurses. Even before the pandemic, the field of nursing was under strain due to a number of factors, including retirements outpacing new entrants to the field, economic downturns, and increasing healthcare demands.

“Bay Path recognizes the demand for nurses in the workforce has never been greater. We know healthcare employers, small and large, need nurses at every level of patient care,” Bay Path President Sandra Doran said. “At each stage of a nurse’s career, we can provide the education and resources our nursing students need to succeed and thrive in their careers. And our new MS in nursing complements our bachelor of science in nursing and doctor of nurse practice – family nurse practitioner degrees.”

Bay Path’s MS in nursing will address the critical problem of the nursing shortage by expanding the talent pipeline for nurses to earn a degree that blends the latest developments in patient care, leadership training, best practices in management, and foundations of teaching. The fully asynchronous MS in nursing is ideal for working adults, allowing students to learn on their time and on their schedule, and enrolled nursing candidates can earn their degree within two years.

“Our MSN is a creative and innovative approach to support career development for nurses,” said Dr. Linda Adams-Wendling, chief nurse administrator and director of the MSN/DNP nursing program. “Many times, nurses who are ready to pursue a graduate degree are often not sure if they want to be nurse educators or nurse managers/leaders/administrators. Our degree provides our nursing students with skills and competencies in each of these areas. As a result, they can take advantages of more opportunities, as well as fulfill a critical need for nurses whose knowledge and experience are fundamental for patient-centered care and the development of the next generation of nurses.”

The online master of science in nursing is also a pathway to Bay Path’s online doctor of nurse practice – family nurse practitioner program, which is a terminal nursing credential preparing nurses with the critical skills needed to translate evidence-based care into practice, improve systems of care, and measure outcomes for patients and communities. Nurses who wish to pursue a terminal nursing credential and who have graduated from Bay Path’s MS in nursing program may also be able to apply courses to the doctoral program.

Click here to learn about admission to the MSN program. There will be online information sessions on Wednesday, April 12 at 7 p.m.; and Monday, May 15 at noon.

PV Financial Group Announces Sixth Annual Plan with a Purpose Scholarship

By
Daily News

LUDLOW — PV Financial Group announced its sixth annual Plan with a Purpose Scholarship for Ludlow, Belchertown, and Wilbraham graduating seniors. This year, PV Financial will double its scholarship to each town’s recipient to $2,000.

The Plan with a Purpose Scholarship is meant to honor a graduating senior who is meaningfully planning a purposeful future, leveraging their academic career to make a difference in their community.

“We are looking for students with a compelling story to share and how they plan to use their academic career to make a difference and be an integral part in their communities,” Managing Partner Ed Sokolowski said. “We’re honored to invest in their futures and continued success as they head to college.”

Applications are still open for both Ludlow and Belchertown seniors until May 1. Students are encouraged to visit their schools’ Guidance departments to get an application.

Aer Lingus Resumes Non-stop Service from Bradley to Dublin, Ireland

By
Daily News

WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The Connecticut Airport Authority announced that Aer Lingus has resumed non-stop service from Bradley International Airport to Dublin, Ireland. The first flight departed Bradley International Airport on March 26.

The resumed service operates daily through the end of October via Aer Lingus’ Airbus A321neo LR aircraft and offers connectivity to 28 key U.K. and European airports, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Vienna, Madrid, Barcelona, Rome and Prague, and more. The service is expected to operate annually on a seasonal basis until year-round demand is realized from the return of business travel.

“After more than two years, it’s great to be back flying back to Hartford. Our daily flights, from and through Dublin, will bring travelers from Ireland, the U.K., and Europe into the center of Connecticut, which is home to global businesses and recognized as the insurance capital of the world,” said Lynne Embleton, Aer Lingus CEO. “As the only European airline operating out of Hartford, we also offer a unique service to U.S. passengers, flying them directly on our non-stop service to Dublin and through our Dublin hub, connecting them onward to the most popular U.K. and European destinations.”

Aer Lingus, the Irish flag carrier, first started operating out of Bradley International Airport in 2016. After nearly four successful years and thousands of passengers served, the non-stop service was interrupted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are thrilled to have Aer Lingus back at Bradley International Airport,” said Kevin Dillon, the Connecticut Airport Authority’s executive director. “Their return strengthens our pandemic recovery and is key to our continued growth. Leading up to the return, we have already seen a lot of excitement from travelers, and we are extremely proud to once again offer easy and quick transatlantic access to Ireland and beyond.”

Wilson’s Developer to Host Community Forum on March 30

By
Daily News

GREENFIELD — The Community Builders, the housing partner for the redevelopment of the former Wilson’s Department Store building on Main Street in Greenfield, in partnership with the Franklin Community Co-op, MassDevelopment, and the city of Greenfield, will host a forum to update the community on the project on Thursday, March 30 at 6 p.m. at the John Zon Community Center, 35 Pleasant St.

“This is an opportunity for the community to meet with project stakeholders and learn how we plan to reactivate this landmark downtown building,” said Julia Scannell, development project manager for the Community Builders. “This will be an interactive forum, with the opportunity for the public to view and comment on our plans to bring new life to the Wilson’s building.”

Announced last November, the redevelopment project will create approximately 65 mixed-income rental homes for families and a new, larger home for Franklin Community Co-op’s Greenfield store, Green Fields Market.

TommyCar Announces Annual Scholarship Program for High-school Students

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — TommyCar Auto Group announced the launch of its annual scholarship program for high-school students. The program is designed to support and recognize students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership skills, and a commitment to community service.

The scholarship program will award two students from two different schools, Hopkins Academy in Hadley and Northampton High School in Northampton, with $2,500 each toward their college tuition. The recipients will be chosen based on an application process that includes academic transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation.

“We believe that investing in the education of young people is crucial to their success and the future of our community,” said Carla Cosenzi, president of TommyCar Auto Group. “Our scholarship program is designed to support students who are dedicated to achieving their academic goals and making a positive impact on their community. We look forward to receiving many outstanding applications and selecting the most deserving candidates for our scholarship program.”

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be graduating seniors from one of the two participating high schools. Applications are now open and must be submitted by May 31. The winners will be announced on June 2 at the two high schools. For more information, visit www.tomcosenzischolarship.com.

Westfield State University to Host Presentation of En-ROADS on April 20

By
Daily News

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University and its partners will host a free presentation of En-ROADS on Thursday, April 20 at 6:30 p.m. on campus in Wilson Hall, Room 130. The program is designed for the general public, secondary teachers, and students of all ages.

En-ROADS is an evidence-based global climate simulator that allows users to explore the impact of specific policies — such as electrifying transport, pricing carbon, and improving agricultural practices — on hundreds of factors, including energy prices, temperature, air quality, and sea-level rise.

Developed by Climate Interactive, the MIT Sloan Sustainability Initiative, and Ventana Systems, En-ROADS helps people make connections between things they care about and the possibilities available to help ensure a resilient future. Users can quickly see the long-term effects of the global climate policies and actions they imagine.

Anyone interested in learning which climate solutions are most impactful, teachers wondering how to enhance students’ learning about climate issues, and others will benefit from the En-ROADS presentation, which will explore the benefits, challenges, and equity implications of a wide range of climate policies, while stakeholders work together to build a scenario for a better climate future.

The presentation will include information on using En-ROADS in classrooms and other community settings, and will help attendees understand actions they can take to address climate change. Light refreshments will be provided.

BusinessTalk with Steve and Jean Graham

By
Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 155: March 27, 2023

George Interviews Steve Graham

Steve and Jean Graham have been named Difference Makers by BusinessWest for 2023 for many reasons, from their work within the community to their success in business. It’s a compelling and inspiring story that involves everything from ice cream to wrestling, and one can learn more about as BusinessWest Editor George O’Brien talks with Steve Graham on the next installment of BusinessTalk. It’s must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest and sponsored by PeoplesBank.

 

Sponsored by:

Also Available On

Veritas Prep Charter School Approved as Massachusetts Early College Program

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Following a rigorous nine-month application process, Springfield’s Veritas Preparatory Charter School, in partnership with Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) and Worcester State University (WSU), has been approved for designation as a Massachusetts Early College program by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, starting this fall.

The unique local program allows Veritas Prep High School students to take college courses through STCC and WSU and earn 30 to 60 credits, even working towards obtaining an associate degree upon high-school graduation, for free.

“We are beyond proud to offer an early-college program as a one-of-a-kind option for high-school students in the Springfield area,” said Rachel Romano, executive director of Veritas Prep. “This program not only gives students a significant head start on their college education, but also teaches them to be proactive, independent, and confident in pursuit of their goals.”

This designation will add more than 100 students to early-college enrollment this fall and 334 students by 2026, with pathways concentrated in health sciences and healthcare, education, business and finance, computer science, engineering, and liberal arts.

Starting last fall, Veritas High School opened with 100 students in grade 9, working with STCC and WSU to begin implementing early-college activities for the inaugural ninth-grade class. Veritas Prep’s freshmen were offered two college courses this semester with professors from STCC and WSU, each course earning them credit toward high-school graduation and transferable college credits. With the average cost of college in Massachusetts around $20,000 per year, the intensive early-college program can save students $40,000 to $75,000 or more. The general studies associate degree that students can earn from STCC while still in high school means they can start as juniors at other Massachusetts public colleges or universities.

In January 2017, the boards of Elementary and Secondary Education and Higher Education jointly launched an initiative intended to support the expansion of the Massachusetts Early College program and establish an Early College designation. Fifty-one high schools and 24 higher-education institutions participate, reaching more than 6,000 high-school students. This is the ninth designation cycle in the state initiative’s five years, awarding nine new designations that will add 730 students to early-college enrollment this fall and 1,800 students by 2028.

Students across the nation are graduating from high school unprepared for the academic and social/emotional demands of college: 40% of all college students and 60% of Black and Hispanic or Latino students take at least one remedial course in college, adding thousands of dollars to an already-high cost of attendance and increasing student debt. Moreover, 60% of college students and 75% of Black and Hispanic students will begin college but won’t earn a degree. Now, Veritas Prep can offer a high-school experience that will help defy the odds and put students on a path to college and a successful career.

Square One Announces Plans for Expanded Access to Early Education

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — It’s back to Square One for one of the region’s oldest nonprofit organizations. This morning, Square One leaders were joined by state and local officials to formally announce plans to expand access to high-quality early learning and care for the region’s children and families.

The announcement was held at 947 Main St., Springfield, the site where Square One once stood prior to the 2011 tornado. There, Square One plans to build a new facility, which will include four preschool classrooms, a full-service family-support center, and administrative offices.

Early support for the estimated $10 million project is coming from both the city of Springfield and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno has committed nearly $1 million in funding, while state Sen. Adam Gomez and state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez sponsored and secured a $2 million earmark in the state budget to support Square One’s expansion of services.

“I am so appreciative of Square One’s continued and dedicated efforts to provide an outstanding, caring, safe, nurturing, and educational environment for our children and their families,” Sarno said. “I am proud to continue to financially support this initiative to the tune of nearly $1 million. Pre-K education and workforce-development initiatives have been a hallmark issue for my administration.”

Added Gomez, “the services that Square One provides across the city of Springfield are paramount for the development and care of the city’s youth. Advocating for the $2 million granted at the state level is the least that I could do to show my appreciation for the work that Square One does. As a former Square One kid myself, you never know what the future holds for our youth, but they are all destined for greatness. The special funding announced today will be going toward a new building, which will broaden the range of Square One’s support for children and families in the community. It’s so important to ensure our investments are going where it counts — the next generation.”

The 26,000-square-foot facility is being developed by well-known developers Fran Cataldo, Juan Prieto, Paul Picknelly, and Charles Irving, who formed a partnership in 2016 for the purpose of developing the property that was once occupied by Square One. Known as Davenport Square 1, the partners represent a legacy of investment, development, and redevelopment in Springfield and Western Mass., including retail, housing, office, and hospitality projects. Together, they are committed to projects that support the revitalization of downtown Springfield.

“We are so grateful for the support and advocacy we have received at the state and local level,” said Dawn DiStefano, Square One president and CEO. “We know that when children and families have access to high-quality early learning and care, the positive impact is felt by everyone around them. Not only are our children getting the educational foundation they need to become our future leaders, but their parents can go to work feeling confident their children are learning in a safe, nurturing, and playful environment. Likewise, our businesses can thrive because accessible full-day child care is no longer a barrier for their employees. This project is a win for our community.”

Massachusetts Unemployment Creeps Up in February

By
Daily News

BOSTON — The state’s February total unemployment rate was 3.7%, up two-tenths of a percentage point from the revised January estimate of 3.5%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced Friday.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts gained 3,000 jobs in February.This follows January’s revised gain of 8,900 jobs. The largest over-the-month, private-sector job gains were in professional, scientific, and business services; education and health services; and trade, transportation, and utilities. Employment now stands at 3,735,800. Since the employment trough in April 2020, Massachusetts has gained 674,200 jobs.

From February 2022 to February 2023, BLS estimates Massachusetts gained 91,700 jobs. The largest over-the-year gains occurred in professional, scientific, and business services; education and health services; and leisure and hospitality.

The February unemployment rate of 3.7% was 0.1 percentage point above the national rate of 3.6% reported by BLS.

The labor force increased by an estimated 11,700 from 3,729,800 in January, as 6,800 more residents were employed and 4,800 more residents were unemployed over-the-month. Over-the-year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was down by 0.2%.

The state’s labor-force participation rate — the total number of residents 16 or older who worked or were unemployed and actively sought work in the last four weeks — increased by 0.2% to 65.0% over-the-month. Compared to February 2022, the labor-force participation rate was down 0.4%.

Market Mentors Promotes Megan Wehbe, Kevin Jack

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Market Mentors, the region’s largest marketing, advertising, and public-relations agency, announced the promotions of two of its employees. Megan Wehbe was promoted from account executive to senior account executive/strategic planner, and Kevin Jack was promoted from digital marketing specialist to senior digital specialist.

“In the two years Megan has been with Market Mentors, she has become an integral part of our team,” said Michelle Abdow, the agency’s president. “Most recently, she reinvented our client planning process, lending her strategic skills to build our business and the business of both existing and new accounts. In her expanded role, she will continue to counsel the team in strategic planning to strengthen and grow the agency’s skills in this area.”

Abdow continued, “since Kevin joined our team two years ago, he has become the driving force behind many successful digital strategies and campaigns. In his growing role, he will continue to expand our expertise and advise the digital department in campaign strategies and tactical implementation to further broaden our agency’s digital capabilities and services.”

Wehbe, a graduate of Grand Valley State University in Michigan, has more than a decade of experience in new-business development and account management, including long-range planning, strategizing, and executing client projects and campaigns. With previous experience working on accounts for USAA and Audi, she now lends her expertise to a wide variety of clients at Market Mentors.

A graduate of Temple University in Pennsylvania and holding Google Ads and Analytics certifications, Jack plans, executes, optimizes, and reports on digital marketing campaigns for clients across a gamut of industries, including healthcare, banking and finance, retail, manufacturing, and more.

“Adept at managing complex clients and proactively seeking solutions and improvements to grow their businesses, Megan has consistently proven her skills in her account executive role,” said Pamela Soisson, chief operating officer. “She advocates for the client and the agency in balance and pushes both to elevate their game. She has earned the respect of clients and colleagues alike.”

About Jack, Soisson noted that, “regardless of the complexity of the task at hand, Kevin regularly demonstrates his skills and adaptiveness as a digital marketing specialist. He is adept at balancing campaign efficacy and industry best practices and is not afraid to think outside of the box and push the boundaries for new technologies.”

Thunderbirds Promote John Jones Jr., Welcome Keith Allen

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Thunderbirds announced the promotion of John Jones Jr. to Manager of Ticket Sales & Strategy.

Jones joined the Thunderbirds as an account executive in ticket sales during the 2018-19 season. A former Division I letter winner in football at Florida State University, he will oversee the Thunderbirds’ award-winning Ticket Sales department in the areas of season tickets, group tickets, and individual ticket sales. He has annually been among the top ticket-sales representatives leaguewide over his four seasons with the organization.

“John embodies the qualities we look for in a Ticket Sales representative, beginning with his excellence in customer service and relationship building,” Thunderbirds President Nathan Costa said. “John remained with us through the pandemic and has been instrumental in our success as a Ticket Sales department and an organization as a whole. He has worked tirelessly at honing his skills, time, effort, and dedication to the Thunderbirds, and this promotion speaks to how highly he is respected in the organization. We are excited to have him lead our team to even greater heights.”

Additionally, the Thunderbirds welcomed Keith Allen as coordinator of Community Relations. Allen joined the Thunderbirds as an intern in Game Operations and Community Relations during the 2021-22 season following the completion of his degree from Southern New Hampshire University. He will assist the Thunderbirds and the T-Birds Foundation in charitable ventures throughout the Pioneer Valley, including appearances by team mascot Boomer and Thunderbirds players.

STCC Spring Open House to Put Spotlight on Programs, Services Today

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) will hold an in-person open house to showcase programs, services, and more today, March 23, from 4:30 to 7 p.m. in the Student Learning Commons (Building 19).

The open house, which was held virtually during the pandemic, returned in person last fall and once again will be held on campus.

“We are excited about the upcoming open house and meeting with prospective students face-to-face to show them all that the college has to offer,” said Samantha Plourd, dean of Enrollment, Retention and Completion at STCC.

Enrollment for the spring semester was up about 5% compared to spring 2022. The Spring 2 term, which begins March 21, is seeing an enrollment uptick of about 13% as of the beginning of March.

“Our enrollment numbers are strengthening as we are coming out of the pandemic,” Plourd said. “Students choose STCC for our high-quality programs that range from technical and healthcare to liberal arts and business. We are the most affordable college in Springfield and provide opportunities to transfer to continue your educational journey.”

STCC also offers academic and non-academic support services, including advising, tutoring, programs for first-generation college students, and more.

Open to the public, STCC’s open house will showcase academic programs, support services, athletics, and more. The event is an ideal opportunity for high-school students and adult learners to learn more about what the college has to offer, including associate-degree and certificate programs, transfer opportunities and academic advising, financial aid, online learning, support services, the Workforce Development Center, and the Springfield Adult Learning Center.

Family and friends are welcome to attend. Representatives from programs and departments will be available to speak with attendees. Campus tours will also be available.

For more information and to pre-register, visit stcc.edu/openhouse. Contact the STCC Admissions Office at (413) 755-3333 or [email protected] with questions. For directions to the Student Learning Commons (Building 19), visit stcc.edu/about-stcc/campus-map-and-directions.

Amherst Survival Center to Host Empty Bowls Fundraiser on April 1

By
Daily News

AMHERST — The Amherst Survival Center will host its 15th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser on Saturday, April 1 from noon to 4 p.m. at the center’s site at 138 Sunderland Road, North Amherst. Empty Bowls brings the community together to fight hunger and raise funds for the center’s programs, ensuring that area residents have access to the food they need.

This year, Empty Bowls will again offer in-person dining at the center, with service from local celebrities, including state legislators, town leaders, and special guests. There will also be options for attendees to take their soup to-go. Guests select a unique, handcrafted bowl made by a local artist and choose between a dozen soups donated by local restaurants and freshly baked bread. Meat, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free soup options will be available. The keepsake bowl is theirs to keep as a reminder of all the other bowls they have helped to fill. Soft drinks are included, and wine and hard cider are available for purchase (cash only).

“This annual event funds the critical food and nutrition programs that provided more than 1.2 million meals to 7,500 of our neighbors last year. Right now, with costs at the grocery store so high and the end of pandemic SNAP benefits, we are seeing unprecedented need: 25% higher than the peak surges of the pandemic and rising. We are also seeing record numbers of families coming to the center for the very first time,” said Lev Ben-Ezra, executive director of the Amherst Survival Center. “I am grateful to be a part of a community where we support each other, and where we know that everyone should have the food they need. Empty Bowls is a beautiful opportunity to put that value into action.”

Tickets cost $50 and are available online at www.amherstsurvival.org/emptybowls or by calling the Amherst Survival Center at (413) 549-3968, ext. 108. Guests who don’t want a handmade bowl may also choose soup-only tickets for adults ($30) or for children ($10). Children 2 and under are free. Tickets can also be purchased in person on the day of at the event.

The event will also include a raffle with prizes including a handblown glass platter from Josh Simpson, a photoshoot with professional photographer Isabella Dellolio, a private wine tasting from Provisions, and more. Raffle tickets cost $10 each or three for $25. Empty Bowls keepsake aprons will also be available for purchase, and all donations on top of ticket purchases will be matched by presenting sponsor Greenfield Savings Bank up to $5,000. Raffle ticket or apron purchases and additional donations can be made online while purchasing tickets, or in person at the event.

“Empty Bowls is an inspiring event that brings our community together to help end food insecurity in our community. Greenfield Savings Bank is proud to sponsor and support the Amherst Survival Center in their mission to help people in our community,” said Thomas Meshako, president and CEO of Greenfield Savings Bank.

With the involvement and support of Greenfield Savings Bank, full bowls sponsors Mass General Brigham Cooley Dickinson Hospital and PeoplesBank, as well many other business sponsors, local restaurants, and volunteers, the proceeds from Empty Bowls directly benefit the Amherst Survival Center’s programs and services. A full list of sponsors, soup makers, and potters is available at www.amherstsurvival.org/emptybowls.

Longtime Pediatrician, Co-founder of Health New England Richard Segool Retiring

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Richard Segool, a pediatrician practicing at Pioneer Valley Pediatrics and co-founder of Health New England, is retiring from the Health New England board and from his practice, mostly. He will still see patients one day a week but is largely pulling away from his practice of 47 years.

To honor his contribution to the local healthcare ecosystem, Health New England has made a $100,000 grant to the Baystate Division of Midwifery and Community Health’s Community Connections Program, to help with maternal and infant care. The focus could not be more personal for Segool, as he and his wife, Hélène, experienced the loss of a twin daughter at birth.

In 1986, Baystate Medical Center, two other hospitals, and a group of physicians formed an innovative, co-owned health plan with a mission to improve the health and lives of the people in the communities they served. As one of the first to join the plan and a member of the charter corporation, Segool has helped guide Health New England as it evolved into the only local not-for-profit, hospital-owned health plan in the region. He has served on its board of directors since then.

Amherst College Names Angie Tissi-Gassoway Chief Student Affairs Officer, Dean of Students

By
Daily News

AMHERST — Amherst College named Angie Tissi-Gassoway its new chief Student Affairs officer (CSAO) and dean of students. She will be responsible for all functions of the Office of Student Affairs, including residential engagement and well-being, housing and operations, identity and cultural resources, counseling and mental health, student activities and leadership, health and community safety services, accessibility, case management, community standards, new student programs and orientation, and immigration and visa services. The appointment is effective immediately.

Tissi-Gassoway has served as the interim CSAO since February, before which they served as the interim chief Equity and Inclusion officer for 14 months.

Tissi-Gassoway joined Amherst in July 2012 as an area coordinator in Residential Life and, since then, has held various roles in the offices of both Student Affairs and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), including director of the Queer Resource Center, assistant dean of students and director of Identity and Cultural Resources; and associate dean of students for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. During that time, she co-led new-student orientation and co-developed the social-justice leadership LEAP program, founded and served as the inaugural director of the Queer Resource Center, and helped to establish a structure and expansion of the college’s cultural and identity resource centers, including the creation of the inaugural affinity-based graduation ceremonies, which have become a cherished tradition at Amherst.

To reinforce the college’s commitment to inclusion and community, Tissi-Gassoway spearheaded the “I Belong” campaign, the Day of Dialogue on Race and Racism, the Amherst Reflects series, and the Cultural Heritage Committee. In the past year, they co-created and launched the Civil Rights and Title IX Office in the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and worked side-by-side with the provost’s office to recruit and retain a diverse faculty. They also currently chair the recently formed Campus Safety Advisory Committee.

Tissi-Gassoway has dedicated the last 20 years of their career to student affairs and diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education. Prior to their tenure at Amherst College, they served in Mount Holyoke College’s Health Education office. Before that, Tissi-Gassoway worked at Oregon State University, where she first found her passion for community building, equity, and student engagement. She earned a master’s degree in education in social-justice education from UMass Amherst and a master’s degree in public health and bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University.

“I am honored to serve as Amherst’s chief Student Affairs officer and dean of students,” Tissi-Gassoway said. “It is a true privilege to work with our remarkable students, engage our collective community, lead the extraordinary team of Student Affairs, and collaboratively advance the work of community, equity, and belonging at the college.”

Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce Policy Network Launched

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Regional Chamber, in partnership with the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC), announced the launch of the statewide Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce Policy Network. Led by the presidents and CEOs of large regional chambers of commerce, the network plans to use its collective statewide voice to advocate for policy and business issues that will strengthen the quality of life and economy in the Commonwealth.

The Chambers Policy Network is designed to leverage the existing impact and on-the-ground local knowledge of these local chambers to provide solutions to policy challenges that hinder the success and legacy of residents, employees, and businesses. The goal is a growing statewide economy that works for all and strengthens communities’ ability to retain talent and businesses in Massachusetts.

The Chambers Policy Network will focus on the issues that directly tie to the region’s future: statewide competitiveness, taxes and revenue, transportation, broadband access, talent development and retention, housing, climate change, higher education, and the ease of doing business.

“Chambers are always champions for local businesses and the people that power those businesses,” said Diana Szynal, president of the Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This network will advance our collective efforts and allow us to reach across Massachusetts, which is important as we elevate the voices of business leaders and build the future of the Commonwealth.”

The Chambers Policy Network will initially consist of 10 of the largest chambers from across the entire state as founding members, with plans to expand to include other chambers in 2024. Included in its plans are annual sharing of regional chamber policy priorities and yearly Chamber Policy Network visits to Beacon Hill and Capitol Hill to promote its agenda.

“The Chambers Policy Network will elevate local chambers helping to grow our economy, boost our workforce development, and support local businesses while expediting strategic solutions to policy challenges,” said Rick Sullivan, president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council.

Three of the network’s founding members represent Western Mass.: Szynal, Sullivan, and Jonathan Butler, president and CEO of 1Berkshire.

Rep. Neal, Sen. Markey Announce $2.8 Million for City of Chicopee

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and U.S. Sen. Edward Markey joined Chicopee Mayor John Vieau and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency officials this week to announce a $2,854,800 earmark to support the Chicopee Water Pollution Control Facility’s (WPCF) Nitrogen and Energy Optimization Project.

The allocation was made possible through congressionally directed spending from the Department of the Interior. Neal and Markey included funding for this project in the FY 2023 spending bill that was signed into law on Dec. 29, 2022.

“This funding is a testament to the commitment of local municipalities and the federal government to invest in long-term solutions that will maintain the quality of waterways in our communities,” Neal said. “In contrast with the horrific events that took place in Flint, Michigan, today’s announcement will enable the city of Chicopee to make the investments necessary to reduce nitrogen levels, ensuring the proper treatment of the Connecticut River. Clean water is essential to the health and well-being of the citizenry and our local environment, and that is why it is critical that we provide our dedicated public-works employees with the resources needed for their vital work.”

Added Markey, “with this infusion of federal funding, the city of Chicopee can do its part to reduce the nitrogen levels in the Connecticut River, ensuring our waterways and tributaries are healthier while lowering costs for the surrounding community. Every city deserves safe and clean rivers, and I will continue fighting for critical environmental protections so that all our waterways are preserved for generations to come.”

Vieau noted that “the receipt of this grant is critical in completing the initial phase of a significant nutrient-removal upgrade at our wastewater-treatment facility. The project total cost is projected to be more than $60 million over the next several years. This funding will help offset the cost to the ratepayers, which is crucial considering we have some of the higher sewer rates in the area.”

The WPCF discharges 15.5 million gallons per day to the Connecticut River, which is a tributary to Long Island Sound, an estuary of national significance impaired by nitrogen pollution. This standalone project can be accomplished within one year and will improve existing process tanks and equipment at the WPCF necessary to implement the larger upgrade. The project will provide immediate, measurable nitrogen reductions at the plant to benefit the community environs, the Connecticut River, and Long Island Sound. The project will also improve energy efficiency at the facility, stabilizing operating costs and reducing the financial burden on ratepayers and the city.

“The funding announced today for the Chicopee Water Pollution Control Facility will help accomplish important upgrades that will protect our environment for years to come. Reducing nitrogen discharges into the Connecticut River will improve ecological conditions in the river from Chicopee downstream, all the way to Long Island Sound,” U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Regional Administrator David Cash said. “It is especially important that we invest in communities that have been historically disadvantaged so that the benefits of a clean and healthy environment are shared and enjoyed by everyone.”

This funding comes five months after Neal helped secure $4.5 million to cover phase one of this three-phase project to bring the plant into compliance with new nitrogen-removal requirements set by the EPA and the state. The city also received an additional $2.5 million from the EPA through the Long Island Estuary and matched CDS funds with $713,000, bringing the total funding for this project to just over $10 million. With the latest infusion of federal funds, the project now moves into phase two.

Academy of Music, New England Public Media Present Best of Valley Voices Story Slam

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — The Best of Valley Voices Story Slam collaboration between the Academy of Music Theatre and New England Public Media will stage its eighth competition at the Academy of Music on Saturday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m. With storytelling as one of the oldest forms of entertainment, Valley Voices brings inspiring, comedic, and heartwarming true stories from members of the local community to the stage.

Audience members selected the top three storytellers from four slams performed at a variety of venues in the Valley between December and March, and now they will compete for the best of the best. Both novice and experienced storytellers will be sharing their five-minute, first-person narratives live on stage, and the audience will select the winner. Co-producers Lyrical Faith and Vanessa Cerillo, along with singer and songwriter Adam McElreath, will lead the audience along with the rules and voting tips.

For further information or to purchase tickets, visit www.aomtheatre.com or call (413) 584-9032, ext. 105, Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.

Baystate, Lifepoint Announce CEO for Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Baystate Health and Lifepoint Behavioral Health, a business unit of Lifepoint Health, announced that Roy Sasenaraine has been named CEO of the new joint-venture behavioral-health hospital currently under construction in Holyoke. The 150-bed hospital, to be called Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital, is slated to open to patients in August.

“I am delighted to welcome Roy to the Lifepoint Behavioral Health team and know he will be the right leader for our new hospital in Holyoke,” said Russ Bailey, president of Lifepoint Behavioral Health. “With more than 20 years of experience in operations and financial management and, in particular, hands-on experience guiding operations in behavioral-health settings, Roy has evidenced a commitment to leading sustainable operations and delivering high-quality care to patients in a variety of emergent, acute, and outpatient settings. I am confident Roy is the right person to lead Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital into its first chapter here in the Holyoke community.”

Most recently, Sasenaraine served as vice president of Operations for the central region of Spire Orthopedic Partners, where he led new construction, patient-access initiatives, and acquisition and integration work for Spire’s nine locations in Connecticut.

Prior to his role at Spire, Sasenaraine served as vice president of Operations for Hartford Healthcare System’s East Region behavioral-health network. In this role, he oversaw 18 locations, including six school-based programs, two emergency departments, one inpatient psychiatric hospital, eight ambulatory locations, and one inpatient juvenile program. His leadership led to the implementation of a new care model for adolescent, pediatric, and adult patients in inpatient care along with the implementation of a new electronic medical record across all sites of care.

“Roy’s breadth of operational experience and his deep understanding of the behavioral-health setting make him the right leader for this new, state-of-the art facility that we are excited to open in the coming months,” said Dr. Andrew Artenstein, chief physician executive and chief academic officer of Baystate Health, president of Baystate Medical Practices, and regional executive dean of UMass Chan Medical School – Baystate. “We look forward to serving patients when Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital opens and know Roy’s leadership will be instrumental as we expand our behavioral-health offerings, bring on new tools and resources for our patients, and implement new quality-of-care models. We are excited to welcome Roy and his family to the Holyoke community, and we look forward to serving patients at Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital later this summer.”

Sasenaraine earned a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration and a master’s degree in business administration, with a focus in healthcare administration, from Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Conn. He is a member of the board of directors for Health Assistance Intervention Education Network and previously served on boards for Advance Behavioral Health and Blue Ocean Healthcare LLC.

“I am honored to join Lifepoint Behavioral Health and support the team at Baystate Health as we expand critically needed inpatient behavioral-healthcare services to the community,” Sasenaraine said. “I am eager to get to work, and I know that we have an exciting road ahead of us. I look forward to serving patients in Western Massachusetts with safe, high-quality behavioral-healthcare services at Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital.”

Valley Springs Behavioral Health Hospital will feature 120 semi-private rooms and 30 private rooms for patients. The addition of this new facility will increase patient access in the community to Baystate Health’s specialty inpatient behavioral healthcare for adults, including geriatric patients, as well as adolescents and children, by more than 50%. Lifepoint Behavioral Health and Baystate Health broke ground on the new facility in March 2022.