Building Permits

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Building Permits

BUILDING PERMITS

The following building permits were issued during the month of October 2021. (Filings are limited due to closures or reduced staffing hours at municipal offices due to COVID-19 restrictions).

CHICOPEE

Claire Bigos
246 Grattan St.
$14,000 — Roofing

HADLEY

E&A/I&G Campus Plaza LP
N/A — 454 Russell St.
Remove T-Mobile equipment, upgrade existing Sprint location

Shipman Realty Trust
138 Russell St.
N/A — Return handrails in staircase, take down partition wall

LEE

Paul Face, Dawn Face
76 Main St.
$4,300 — Remove and replace existing tub and shower

Venture Realty, LLC
145 Housatonic St.
$292,000 — Tenant fit-up for a new Starbucks

LENOX

WS Management Inc.
489 Pittsfield Road
$8,000 — Install roof curbs for air-conditioning unit

PITTSFIELD

Alexander Blumin
16 Hamlin St.
$3,200 — Replace section of rotted sill and existing deck and stair

John Dallenbach
460 East St.
$4,300 — Remove roof over front porch, downsize existing deck

Delalba Holdings LLC
8 Commercial St.
$40,000 — Roofing

David Robillard
121 Second St.
$12,500 — Roofing

Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield
376 North St.
$20,000 — Remove, repair, and replace existing doors damaged by fire

Msgr. Michael Shershanovich
222 Pecks Road
$9,140 — Excavate for underground propane tank, provide concrete slab, backfill with sand, finish with topsoil and seed

Worthington Group LLC
3 Dalton Ave.
$43,720 — Roofing

SPRINGFIELD

Alston Gleason
654 Berkshire Ave.
$35,000 — Install three antennas to existing tower

C&W Breckwood Realty Co. LLP
1060 Wilbraham Road
$70,000 — Dish Network to install three cellular antennas and associated equipment to existing tower

Lenox Charitable Fund Inc.
483 Sumner Ave.
$288,579 — Renovate interior for new office space for Jewish Family Services

Miles Morgan LLC
304 Union St.
$81,399 — Roofing

Pilar 2 LLC
165 Liberty St.
$699,689.37 — Remodel office space

Michael Vinick
311 Page Blvd.
$104,162,000 — Botanica Farms to remodel interior space for marijuana retail establishment and assembly use

WILBRAHAM

2701 Boston Rd LLD
2701 Boston Road
$43,283 — Roofing

Eastern States Exposition Receives Shuttered Venue Operators Grant

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Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Eastern States Exposition (ESE) President and CEO Eugene Cassidy was joined by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal and Robert Nelson, director of the Small Business Assoc. (SBA) Massachusetts District Office, on Monday to announce that ESE is the recipient of a Shuttered Venues Operators Grant (SVOG).

These federal grants are given to venues in the entertainment realm such as concert halls, theaters, and other attractions that suffered significant losses during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Big E, North America’s fifth-largest fair in 2019, did not take place in 2020.

“For more than 100 years, the Eastern States Exposition, home of The Big E, has welcomed millions of visitors to enjoy exhibits, entertainment, and agriculture,” said Neal, chair of the House Committee on Ways and Means. “Due to the pandemic, the Big E was forced to close its gates for the 2020 season, resulting in extensive loss. I advocated fiercely on their behalf to the Small Business Administration for swift approval of the Big E’s Shuttered Venue Operators Grant application. Today, just weeks after almost 1.5 million people visited the 2021 fair, we celebrate the authorization of $9 million to the Big E. Congratulations to Gene Cassidy and his team for this tremendous award.”

Added Cassidy, “we are grateful to Congressman Neal for his extraordinary efforts and for his support and advocacy through this arduous process. This grant breathes life into the fair as it recovers from the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

The annual economic impact of the Eastern States Exposition is more than $681 million. It accounts for 7,506 full-time jobs resulting in $319 million in personal income and generates 3,500 temporary jobs during the Big E alone, and 1,992 people choose to live in the region because of the ESE’s presence and employment opportunities.

The growth in income, personal consumption, and industry sales spurred on by the ESE contributes in a significant way to Massachusetts tax revenues as well — $7.2 million in income-tax revenue and $9.6 million in sales-tax revenue.

MOSSO Moves to Produce Additional Concerts Following Success of Recent Event

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Musicians of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra (MOSSO) will continue to produce professional classical-music concerts for the audiences of Western Mass., following the success of their Oct. 15 concert with Maestro Kevin Rhodes in Springfield Symphony Hall.

“Coming Home: A Symphonic Reunion” filled the COVID-adjusted capacity of Symphony Hall with 1,300 audience members and reached thousands of additional people nationwide through a livestream, made possible with the support of the city of Springfield, the Music Performance Trust Fund, the American Federation of Musicians, the office of Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Amanda Spear-Purchase and the staff of Symphony Hall, benefactor Lyman Wood, and lovers of classical music from throughout the Pioneer Valley, Connecticut, and beyond. Their financial and in-kind support allowed all audience members to attend or livestream the performance for free. The audience also included scores of students and families invited from the Community Music School of Springfield.

“I have to say something about our incredible patrons who filled Symphony Hall,” Rhodes said. “While incredible enthusiasm from the audience was a constant feature of every performance I’ve had the pleasure to conduct in Springfield in 20 years, the unbridled passion and love shown to the musicians and the music were completely unprecedented.

“This concert was entirely produced by MOSSO,” he added. “In order to accomplish this amazing feat, the musicians had to learn an incredible number of new tasks and skills in concert production. They collaborated with numerous city departments and businesses; managed finances; solicited grants, sponsorships, and donations; marketed and promoted the concert … all within six weeks time.”

Rhodes emphasized that the reason they did this “was not to save their own jobs in Springfield, but rather, because of the love and passion they feel for classical music and our audiences. This is — in addition to the most committed belief in the mission, value, and power of live music, and the importance of being a positive force in a community standing for excellence and joy — what our musicians demonstrate every time they walk on stage.”

According to longtime Assistant Concertmistress Marsha Harbison, donations to MOSSO continue to arrive. “As of October 25, MOSSO has received over $40,000 in contributions from over 120 individual donors in the area. This money will be used to produce additional MOSSO events, ensuring that professional classical and symphonic music continues to be a part of Springfield’s cultural identity.” Harbison added that MOSSO recently received its nonprofit 501(c)(3) determination from the IRS.

Martin Kluger, principal timpanist, added that “MOSSO does not wish to be a rival or competitor to the Springfield Symphony Orchestra,” and said the musicians are hopeful that the SSO will schedule concerts for a 2021-22 season while working toward an agreement with the musicians and Rhodes.

Florence Bank Promotes Jennifer Halpin

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Daily News

FLORENCE — Florence Bank promoted Jennifer Halpin to the position of assistant vice president, Human Resources and affirmative action manager at the main office in Florence.

Halpin is a seven-year employee of Florence Bank who brings extensive knowledge and skills to her new position, in which she will lead and direct the routine functions of the Human Resources department, including hiring and interviewing, payroll administration, benefits, and overseeing and implementing the bank’s equal-employment opportunity and affirmative-action policies and plans.

During her tenure at the bank, she has been the recipient of the President’s Award, which is given to employees who demonstrate superior levels of performance, customer service, and overall contribution to the bank.

Halpin holds an associate degree in business administration from Berkshire Community College and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from UMass Amherst.

“We are thrilled to announce Jen’s well-deserved promotion,” said Kevin Day, president and CEO of Florence Bank. “She is a dedicated and valued employee who consistently delivers great results. She has been an asset to the bank for many years, and I look forward to watching her progress even further in the years to come.”

Bulkley Richardson to Present Webinar on Nonprofits and M&A Transactions

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — In today’s environment, nonprofit organizations may be challenged by reduced donor and governmental support, turnover in management, staff shortages, and competing demands for resources. There are many circumstances where a merger with, or an acquisition of or by, another nonprofit organization may be the best strategy. Such a transaction could help to grow the organization, allow it to expand into different territories or new activities, take advantage of efficiencies of scale, or reduce overhead. And in some cases, such a transaction might be the only option for the nonprofit to survive.

Bulkley Richardson merger and acquisition (M&A) attorneys David Parke and Ron Weiss will present a virtual discussion on Thursday, Oct. 28 at noon over Zoom, focusing on these areas of concern: types of transactions, lack of recourse by the acquiring organization, effect on an organization’s tax-exempt status, effect of a transaction on endowments, approval by the Massachusetts attorney general, and options for obtaining necessary member approval in large membership organizations.

To register, click here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with a link to join the webinar.

WNE School of Law Dean Sudha Setty Elected to ABA Advisory Committee

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University (WNE) School of Law Dean Sudha Setty has been elected to serve on the advisory committee of the American Bar Assoc. (ABA) Legal Education Police Practices Consortium.

The consortium aims to contribute to the national effort examining and addressing legal issues in policing and public safety, including conduct, oversight, and the evolving nature of police work. The consortium leverages the ABA’s expertise and that of participating ABA-accredited law schools to collaborate on projects to develop and implement better police practices throughout the U.S.

The advisory committee provides input and advice concerning the general direction of the consortium, suggests ideas for appropriate law-student participant assignments, and advises on other relevant matters.

Setty became dean of the School of Law in 2018 and has served on the faculty since 2006. She is the author of National Security Secrecy: Comparative Effects on Democracy and the Rule of Law and the editor of Constitutions, Security, and the Rule of Law, and has written dozens of articles on national-security law and policy. In 2018, she was elected to membership in the American Law Institute.

Her leadership of the School of Law has been characterized by a commitment to social justice; diversity, equity, and inclusion work; and supporting excellence in teaching, learning, and research. In May 2019, the School of Law founded the Center for Social Justice, which has quickly grown to be a regional hub of research, advocacy, education, and activism. In April 2021, the faculty of the School of Law adopted an anti-racism and cultural-competency graduation requirement, making it the first law school in the region to do so.

Setty is also a founder of the Workshop for Asian-American Women in the Legal Academy, an effort to support current and aspiring members of the legal academy and to diversify its ranks, which held its inaugural workshop in 2021.

Massachusetts Unemployment Rate Creeps Up in September

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Daily News

BOSTON — The state’s September total unemployment rate increased by two-tenths of a percentage point to 5.2% in September, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts gained 11,900 jobs in September. This follows last month’s revised gain of 3,400 jobs. The largest over-the-month private sector job gains were in education and health services and other services. Since December 2020, Massachusetts has gained 159,900 jobs.

From September 2020 to September 2021, BLS estimates Massachusetts gained 175,200 jobs. Gains occurred in all sectors, led by leisure and hospitality; professional, scientific, and business services; and trade, transportation and utilities.

The September unemployment rate was 0.4% above the national rate of 4.8% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The labor force increased by 11,300 from 3,709,500 in August, as 3,800 more residents were employed and 7,500 more residents were unemployed over the month.

Over the year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was down by 3.7%.

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 — was up two-tenths of a percentage point at 65.9%. Compared to September 2020, the labor-force participation rate is up 1.2%.

Barron & Jacobs Associates to Move Office Location

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Barron & Jacobs Associates will move its offices in November from Old South Street in Northampton to 420 North Main St. in Leeds.

After 17 years in its current location, the company has decided to move to a new spot. The existing building was purchased by the company’s prior owner from Historic Northampton, and Barron & Jacobs restored the home to its original glory. Company owner Chris Jacobs said the new site offers a great location, is well-suited for the business, and is more energy-efficient.

Barron & Jacobs is a full-service design/build remodeler. In business since 1986, the company’s projects include kitchens, baths, porches and decks, attic and basement conversions, whole-house renovations, exterior work, and more. For more information or to schedule a design consultation, visit barronandjacobs.com.

Boo Bash, a Drive-thru Trick-or-Treating Event, Returns to Springfield

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — United Way of Pioneer Valley, in partnership with Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno’s office and Colebrook Realty Services, will once again host the Boo Bash drive-thru trick-or-treating event on Saturday, Oct. 30 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the TD Bank parking lot in downtown Springfield.

Families with children 12 and under are welcome to attend. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Bags of candy, toys, and information on community resources will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

“Once again, United Way of Pioneer Valley and Springfield’s Mayor Sarno invite families to this fun, easily accessible Halloween opportunity,” said Paul Mina, president and CEO of United Way of Pioneer Valley.

More information is available at uwpv.org/boobash, and donations can be made at uwpv.org/donate.

BusinessTalk with Tony Cignoli, president of ther A.L. Cignoli Company

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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest, in partnership with Living Local, 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.

Episode 85: Oct. 25, 2021

George Interviews Tony Cignoli, president of ther A.L. Cignoli Company

George O’Brien has a lively, wide-ranging discussion with Tony Cignoli, president of the A.L. Cignoli Company. The two talk about everything from Smith & Wesson’s recent decision to move its headquarters to Tenessee to redistricting and what it means for the region, to the pandemic and the lessons learned from it. It’s a compelling discussion and must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local.

Sponsored by:

Also Available On

William Burke III to Chair Springfield College Board of Trustees

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — William Burke III will chair the Springfield College board of trustees for the 2021-22 academic year. A board of trustees member since 2004, he will lead the governing body of the college, which is responsible for major decisions and changes on campus, and comprises an integral part of the progress and advancement of the college.

Burke was chief operating officer of Newell Brands, a Fortune 200 global marketer of consumer and commercial products with worldwide sales of more than $10 billion. The company has a strong portfolio of well-known brands, including Yankee Candle, Sharpie, Paper Mate, Parker, Elmer’s, Yankee Candle, Coleman, Marmot, Rawlings, Oster, Sunbeam, Mr. Coffee, Graco, Baby Jogger, Calphalon, Contigo, First Alert, Jostens, and Rubbermaid.

“The ancient Greek philosophy was founded on the notion of a balanced individual,” Burke said. “The Springfield College mission is to educate the whole person in spirit, mind, and body for leadership in service to others. Building on that foundation reminds me of a quote Aristotle said: at the intersection between one’s gifts and the needs of the world is ‘vocare’ — that is Latin for ‘calling.’ That is the Springfield College community. No institution has a greater mission, and that is why I am all in.”

Burke’s 13-year career with Newell Rubbermaid started as president of American Saw, where he was recruited to integrate a privately held company, Lenox, into Newell Rubbermaid.

“Bill has been an engaged and valued trustee for 17 years, and he is a thoughtful, deliberate, and reflective leader who keenly understands and appreciates the unique Springfield College mission,” college President Mary-Beth Cooper said. “Throughout the pandemic, our board has been accessible and helpful as we’ve navigated difficult decisions. Always leading with the best interest of our students, faculty, and staff in mind, our board was — and is — a vital source of counsel and support, while also ensuring the college’s financial health. Bill brings great professional experience and wisdom to Springfield College, and I am eager to work with him in his new capacity as chair.”

Burke earned a bachelor’s degree from Loyola College (now Loyola University), and also received an MBA from Loyola College Sellenger School of Management.

MCLA to Distribute State, Federal Funding Directly to Students

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) will continue distribution of $1 million in federal Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF), part of the American Rescue Plan, in 2021, along with $689,200 via the state-funded MassGrant Plus program.

MassGrant Plus funding is allocated according to the percentage of enrolled students eligible for federal Pell grants, and is available for full-time or part-time students who need assistance paying for tuition and fees. More than 45% of MCLA students are eligible for Pell grants.

During the 2020-21 academic year, MCLA was able to distribute $208,800 in MassGrant Plus funding; the allocation for the 2021-22 academic year is $689,200. MCLA Director of Student Financial Services Bonnie Howland said the college is currently working on awarding funds for the 2021-22 academic year, and will likely distribute half during the current fall 2021 semester, with the other half distributed in the spring of 2022.

HEERF funding is part of the federal American Rescue Plan (ARP). One of the largest investments ever made in American higher education, the ARP allocates $40 billion to colleges in order to mitigate the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A third round of pandemic relief for higher-education institutions, the ARP funds are more than double the first two COVID recovery packages combined. HEERF funding, which exists under the umbrella of ARP, is meant specifically for students.

MCLA received $1.9 million in HEERF funding, announced in August 2021. Students enrolled for summer 2021 courses already received some of this funding, and Howland said the college plans to distribute $1 million in HEERF funding to all students enrolled in credit-bearing courses in mid-November. The remainder will be disbursed to enrolled students in the spring of 2022.

Students with the highest need, demonstrated via FAFSA information, will receive the majority of this funding, but all enrolled students will receive a check along with the option to use the funds to pay off student debt or pay for future semesters of college.

“Many of our students have considerations beyond getting to class on time — they are often balancing their studies with work, family obligations, and other commitments,” MCLA President James Birge said. “I’m grateful for this federal and state funding, which will go directly to support our students. A college education can change lives, and for many of our students, receiving financial help along the way will make a difference in the long term.”

Fall Session III Classes Start Oct. 27 at Holyoke Community College

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — It’s not too late to sign up for fall classes at Holyoke Community College. The final round of HCC’s Fall Flex Start series – Fall Session III – begins Wednesday, Oct. 27, and runs for seven weeks.

Students who enroll for Fall Session III have the opportunity to take a variety of different classes in a wide array of academic areas — on campus, online, or blended.

These accelerated courses are being offered in business, computer applications, communication, culinary arts, education, English, forensic science, health, human services, management, math, sociology, and veterinary and animal science.

HCC introduced its flexible fall start dates in 2020 to accommodate students as they adjusted to the COVID-19 pandemic. Flexible semester start dates are now built into each academic schedule.

HCC welcomed students back to campus for full fall-semester classes on Sept. 7. Fall Session II classes started Sept. 27.

This semester, HCC is offering classes in multiple formats: on campus, fully online (asynchronous), blended remote (real-time and asynchronous components), and blended face to face (on campus, plus remote).

“We’ve found that students really appreciate having increased flexibility in their schedules,” said Mark Hudgik, director of Admissions and Onboarding. “Sometimes they are not always ready to begin classes at the traditional times of the year, so we’re trying to provide them with as many options as possible.”

A full list of classes for Fall Session III can be viewed at hcc.edu/flex-fall. HCC also offers weekly online information sessions for prospective students. Visit hcc.edu/visit-campus for dates and times or to sign up.

For more information or to apply, visit hcc.edu/apply, call (413) 552-2321, e-mail [email protected], or visit hcc.edu and click on the ‘Chat Now’ box.

Sen. Markey Celebrates Friends of Children as an Angels in Adoption Honoree

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Daily News

HADLEY — U.S. Sen. Edward Markey is celebrating Friends of Children as a 2021 Angels in Adoption honoree for its outstanding advocacy for foster-care issues. The Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI), which coordinates the Angels in Adoption program, honored Friends of Children on Oct. 20 in a virtual gala.

According to Markey, Friends of Children was nominated as an honoree this year due to its relentless advocacy for children despite the challenges of the COVID pandemic.

“Even in our nation’s darkest hour, as we continue to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, you have fought tirelessly for the children and families impacted by foster care and involvement in the juvenile justice system and have shown great fortitude in the face of adversity,” Markey said.

Jane Lyons, executive director of Friends of Children, said accepting this nomination shines an important light on the invaluable work the organization provides.

“To be recognized by the CCAI with this award is really exciting and underscores the value placed on our independent child advocacy for kids in the foster-care system,” Lyons said. “We are enormously grateful to Senator Markey for nominating Friends of Children and are appreciative of this national recognition.”

BusinessWest, the Healthcare News to Honor the 2021 Healthcare Heroes Tonight

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest magazine and the Healthcare News will honor eight individuals and groups as Healthcare Heroes for 2021 at a celebration dinner tonight, Oct. 21, at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House in Holyoke.

The award was created in 2017 to recognize those whose contributions to the health and well-being of this region, while known to some, needed to become known to all. Over the past five years, the initiative has more than succeeded in its quest to identify true leaders — not to mention inspiring stories — within this region’s large and very important healthcare sector.

The Healthcare Heroes for 2021, and the categories they represent, include:

• James Goodwin, president and CEO of the Center for Human Development (Lifetime Achievement);

• Dr. Sarah Haessler, hospital epidemiologist at Baystate Medical Center and vice chair for Clinical Affairs in the Department of Medicine at Baystate Health (Emerging Leader);

• Beth Cardillo, executive director of Armbrook Village (Community Health);

• Richard Johnson, Counseling and Testing Prevention and Education Program director at New North Citizens Council Inc. (Community Health);

• Dr. Louis J. DeCaro, podiatrist and owner of DeCaro Total Foot Care Center (Provider);

• Dr. Alicia Ross, medical director of Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care (Administrator);

• J. Aleah Nesteby, former director of LGBTQ Services at Cooley Dickinson Hospital (Innovation); and

• Doorway to an Accessible, Safe and Healthy Home (Collaboration).

The Healthcare Heroes program is being sponsored by presenting sponsors Elms College and Baystate Health/Health New England, and partner sponsor Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center.

State Sen. Eric Lesser to Present Springfield Science Museum with $100,000 Earmark

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Museums will welcome state Sen. Eric Lesser on Monday, Oct. 25 at 11 a.m. to announce a $100,000 earmark from the Commonwealth to help fund the International Space Station exhibit in the Springfield Science Museum. The public is welcome to attend this announcement on the Quadrangle green.

Earmarks from the Commonwealth are a source of funding outside the normal budgeting process for specific programs and services. Elected officials sponsor and advocate for earmarks to benefit their constituents. Gov. Charlie Baker approves, rejects, or amends earmarks as needed.

“As a valued informal STEM learning space, we were very excited to continue work on the International Space Station exhibit,” said Kay Simpson, president and CEO of the Springfield Museums. “The funding secured by Senator Lesser is a welcome addition to the funds needed to open this important and fascinating gallery.”

The Springfield Museums is constructing a fully immersive representation of the International Space Station module Destiny. The gallery will have an ‘airlock’ entrance and dynamic view of Earth from the exhibit’s bay-window cupola. The vestibule is nearing completion and will include a facsimile astronaut suit as well as interactive features that help visitors better understand the science of space exploration. Plans are also underway for a facilitated, roving ‘space cart,’ which will include items from an astronaut’s gear that visitors can touch. A facilitator will be available to answer questions and share information about space travel.

Currently on view outside the gallery is an interactive screen donated by NASA. Visitors can touch the image of the International Space Station to find out more information about its function.

“We are grateful to Senator Lesser for advocating for this earmark to come to the Science Museum,” said Mike Kerr, director of the Springfield Science Museum. “The International Space Station Gallery is sure to inspire young scientists to reach for the stars.”

Panel from Bacon Wilson to Kick Off CPE Forum Series

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The CPE Forum’s six-week, livestreamed fall series will begin on Tuesday, Nov. 2 with a panel from Bacon Wilson. Attorneys Amanda Carpe and Lisa Halbert will discuss probate and estate administration, and attorney Isaac Fleisher will discuss accounting issues for cannabis companies.

Attorney Meghan Sullivan of Sullivan and Hayes will provide an employment and labor-law update on Tuesday, Nov. 9.

On Tuesday, Nov. 16, a panel of attorneys from Bulkley, Richardson and Gelinas will speak on the merger and acquisition process. Also, attorney Lauren Ostberg and Chris Wisnewski, CPA at Whittlesey Advising, will address the risks and safeguards of securing data in a program on cybersecurity.

Medicare planning and succession planning with be discussed on Tuesday, Nov. 23 by members from the Wealth Transition Collective.

On Tuesday, Nov. 30, Kevin Quinn, president of Legacy Counsellors, will discuss proposed changes from the Biden administration that might cause many average people to incur taxes at death. He will discuss the irrevocable life-insurance trust as a possible solution.

The series will conclude on Tuesday, Dec. 7 with two speakers from the Massachusetts Society of CPAs offering the annual tax update over a four-hour program.

The CPE (Continuing Professional Education) Forum was established in 1980 by Josephine Sarnelli, CPA. She continues to volunteer her services in organizing 40 hours of educational programming each year. The CPE Forum’s mission is to provide high-quality educational programs at a low cost to business professionals, including certified public accountants and others seeking CPE credits for licensing purposes. It is also open to the general community for free.

For those seeking continuing professional education credits, the cost of attending the entire fall series is $100, which provides 19 hours of CPE. All programs are three hours in length and start at 3 p.m., except for the four-hour tax update on Dec. 7, which begins at 2 p.m.

The online sessions can be accessed using a laptop, desktop computer, tablet, or smartphone. No camera or microphone is required to participate. Advance registration is required. Payment to the CPE Forum should be mailed to 14 Mill St., Westfield, MA 01085. For more information, visit www.cpeforum.org or call (413) 746-9067.

HCC Welcomes Nathan Leveille as Grants Associate

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) recently welcomed Nathan Leveille as its new staff associate of Grants Development and Management.

Leveille, an HCC graduate from the class of 2001, returns to the college with more than 15 years of experience in grants development and management through his positions at Springfield Technical Community College, where he had worked as grants manager and staff assistant in the Development Office since 2005. He started his position in the office of Resource Development at HCC on Oct. 18.

“Nate brings a wealth of knowledge of public grant management, including budget creation and administration and compliance regulations of our state and federal governments,” said Amy Dopp, HCC’s dean of Resource Development. “We are very happy to have him on our team.”

After graduating from HCC with his associate degree in liberal arts, Leveille went on to Westfield State University for his bachelor’s degree in mass communication with a concentration in public and corporate communications.

Celebrating the Healthcare Heroes for 2021

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Cover Story Event Galleries Healthcare Heroes Special Coverage

Healthcare Heroes Class of 2021

They are leaders. In some cases innovators or collaborators. In all cases, inspirations — people and organizations that have devoted their lives to improving the quality of individual lives and the health of entire communities. We find these stories to be compelling and inspirational, and we’re sure you will as well.

Overall, everyone who was nominated this year is a hero, but in the minds of our judges — the writers and editors at BusinessWest — eight of these stories stood out among the others. The Healthcare Heroes for 2021 are:

Lifetime Achievement:

James Goodwin, President and CEO, Center for Human Development

Patient / Resident / Client Care Provider:

Dr. Louis J. DeCaro, Podiatrist and Owner, DeCaro Total Foot Care Center

Community Health:

Beth Cardillo, Executive Director, Armbrook Village, and Richard Johnson, Counseling and Testing Prevention and Education Program Director, New North Citizens Council Inc.

Emerging Leader:

Dr. Sarah Haessler, Hospital Epidemiologist, Baystate Medical Center Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs, Department of Medicine, Baystate Health

Health / Wellness Administrator:

Dr. Alicia Ross, Medical Director,
Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care 

Innovation in Health / Wellness:

J. Aleah Nesteby, Director of LGBTQ Services, Cooley Dickinson Hospital

Collaboration in Health  / Wellness:

Doorway to an Accessible, Safe and Healthy Home

View the October 21, 2021 Event Gallery Here

[Show thumbnails]

To order prints go to Leah Martin Photography

Watch the Thursday, Oct. 21 Healthcare Heroes Event HERE!

Presenting Sponsors

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Partner Sponsors

The Royal Law Firm Welcomes Two New Attorneys

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Royal Law Firm recently welcomed attorneys Jaclyn Cronin and Jeremy Saint Laurent to its team.

Cronin received her bachelor’s degree from Eastern Connecticut State University and her juris doctor from Western New England University School of Law. She is admitted to practice law in the state of Connecticut.

Saint Laurent joins the firm with extensive litigation experience, having worked as the head of the Litigation department for the city of Springfield.

The Royal Law Firm is a boutique, corporation-side-only law firm operating throughout New England.

WNE Professor Andrea Kwaczala Named 2021 Woman of Innovation

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Andrea Kwaczala, assistant professor of Biomedical Engineering (BME) in the Western New England University (WNE) College of Engineering, has been named a 2021 Woman of Innovation for her efforts in post-secondary academic innovation and leadership by the Connecticut Technology Council (CTC) and the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc.

Kwaczala was among 11 exceptional Connecticut women recognized for their achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) at the 17th annual Women of Innovation awards held virtually on Oct. 14.

Women of Innovation finalists are nominated by their peers, co-workers, and mentors and are selected based on their professional experience, history of innovation, ability to think creatively and solve problems, and demonstration of leadership. The Post-Secondary Academic Innovation and Leadership award is granted to a woman working in the post-secondary academic setting who has created and fostered STEM programs in curriculum development, student research, and teacher-student collaborations. Each finalist has secured outside funding to support her work and/or received peer recognition for her leadership and innovation.

“I would like to thank the Society of Women Engineers of Hartford, especially Brenda Lisitano, for nominating me for this prestigious award. Being a member of this vibrant community has been a catalyst for my career,” Kwaczala said. “This would not be possible without my BME department colleagues and the hard work of my dedicated design students who have inspired me with their innovations and determination to build assistive technology.”

The prestigious awards were earned by women innovators, role models, and leaders in STEM disciplines. They were selected from a field of 26 finalists — the scientists, researchers, academics, manufacturers, student leaders, entrepreneurs, and technicians who are catalysts for scientific advancement throughout Connecticut.

“As these finalists demonstrate, women in STEM in Connecticut are leading innovation, achieving breakthroughs, and encouraging girls to do that and more,” said Giovanni Tomasi, president and chief technology officer of RSL Fiber Systems and CTC board chair. “Connecticut’s economy is expanding and becoming more robust in great part by achieving and sustaining leadership in STEM. These are the people whose contributions are critical in our state’s renaissance.”

The Great Halloween Drive-Thru Returns to Suffield

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Daily News

SUFFIELD, Conn. — Campiti Ventures is bringing the Halloween spirit back to Suffield, Conn. with the Great Halloween Drive-Thru. A kid-friendly family experience full of holograms, projection technology, and spooky scenes, the event will be held Oct. 21-24 and 27-31 from 6 to 9:30 p.m. at Sunrise Park in Suffield. Tickets are $25 per car (cash only), paid at the entrance.

The half-mile journey will take families on a silly and not-too-scary route sure to get viewers in the mood for spooky season. This is Campiti Ventures’ second annual Halloween event, following the 2020 Suffield Halloween Spooktacular (which was followed a few months later with the Winter Wonder Drive-Thru at the Eastern States Exposition). Audiences can expect a bigger and better experience this year with more holograms, projections, and scenes.

“We are so thrilled to be welcomed back for another year of spooky fun,” creator Frank Campiti said. “People really loved the experience last year, and we hope we can welcome many families back to create a new Halloween tradition. Expect some of the same fun as last year with some new features sure to delight kids and adults.”

A portion of each admission will be used to fund the town of Suffield’s 2022 Fireworks Fund, which is bringing back the celebration after a four-year hiatus due to funding issues. Donations are also accepted, with 100% of those donations going directly to the Fireworks Fund.

“We would like to thank our two sponsors, PeoplesBank and Artioli Chrysler Dodge Ram, for helping us put on this event,” Campiti added. “We look forward to seeing all the happy families and raising the funds to bring back Suffield’s fireworks.”

For more information, visit thegreathalloweendrivethru.com.

NightWood Opening-night Celebration Slated for Nov. 4

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Daily News

LENOX — NightWood is back. Once again, the Mount in Lenox will be transformed into a fantastical winter landscape. This year’s show includes several new sound and light elements, including the Eternal City and the Conference of Trees.

An opening-night celebration will be held on Thursday, Nov. 4. Tickets are limited and cost $100 per person, with timed entries at 5:30 p.m., 6 p.m., and 6:30 p.m., followed by bistro fare and craft cocktails under outdoor heaters and twinkling lights. To purchase tickets, click here. All ticket holders will be contacted about dinner menu choices from SoMa Catering.

Due to uneven and stepped terrain, accessibility is limited. NightWood is not wheelchair-accessible.

Country Bank Announces New Business Office in Springfield’s Tower Square

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Country Bank announced it is opening a business office on the 17th floor of Tower Square in Springfield at the end of October to support its continued growth in the markets it serves.

The new business office will support local businesses and allow the Country Bank team to become ingrained with the companies and nonprofits in Springfield. Bringing more than 20 years of commercial banking experience, Senior Vice President Ben Leonard will lead the Springfield team. He has spent more than a decade fostering relationships in Western Mass. with both community and business leaders while he was with Wells Fargo.

“The team at Country Bank has demonstrated a profound level of commitment to the community and its customers,” Leonard said. “I knew that I wanted to be a part of a team whose values align with my own. These values are not just statements, but are put into action every day at Country Bank. This was evident from my first annual meeting with Country Bank, when it pledged $1 million to the Food Bank of Western Mass. and the Worcester County Food Bank. If that is not walking the walk, I don’t know what is.”

Leonard serves on the board for Revitalize CDC in Springfield. In 2018, he was a BusinessWest 40 Under Forty honoree and is a graduate of Wells Fargo’s Credit Management Training Program. He earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Texas.

“We are thrilled to have Ben join the team to lead our western division,” said Tom Wolcott, first senior vice president of Commercial Lending. “His extensive expertise within the commercial-lending space and the Springfield market makes him a great addition to the team. We know that he will be a valuable asset to the Springfield community and Country Bank’s business customers and community leaders.”

MCLA Welcomes WSJ’s Bob Davis as 2021 Hardman Journalist in Residence

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Wall Street Journal Senior Editor Bob Davis will be Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts’ 2021 Hardman Journalist in Residence on Nov. 1-2.

As part of his residency, he will offer a community lecture on Monday, Nov. 1 at 6 p.m. in the first-floor atrium of the MCLA Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation. This event is free and open to the public and will be delivered in person with a hybrid virtual option. Click here to register for the in-person event or virtual lecture

Davis is a senior editor who covers economic issues out of Washington D.C., and focuses on the trade and economic struggle between the U.S. and China. He is co-author of a book about the fight, Superpower Showdown. From 2011 to 2014, he was posted in Beijing, where he covered the Chinese economy.

Before he decamped to Beijing, Davis ran economic coverage during the global financial crisis and, before that, reported on Washington’s response to the Asian financial crisis. From 2004 to 2007, he was the WSJ’s Latin America bureau chief, based in Washington, D.C., and covered the resurgence of populist politics. Under his direction, the bureau won the Overseas Press Club award for Latin America coverage in 2005. He was the Journal’s Brussels bureau chief in 2001-02 and was responsible for coverage of the European Union.

In 2000, he was awarded the Raymond Clapper award for Washington reporting for coverage of the White House negotiations with China over the World Trade Organization. A year earlier, he was part of a team of Journal reporters who won the Pulitzer Prize for international reporting for coverage of the Asian and Russian financial crisis.

In 1998, Davis co-authored Prosperity, which was selected by Business Week as one of the year’s 10 best business books.

MCLA’s Hardman Lecture Series presents in-depth discussions with some of today’s leading journalists and is made possible through the generosity of the Hardman Family Endowment.

American Eagle Donations Support Asnuntuck Food Pantry, Among Other Nonprofits

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Daily News

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. — American Eagle Financial Credit Union (AEFCU) revealed the recipients of $25,842 in total donations from the latest round of the credit union’s popular Cash Back to the Community program. The third quarter’s winners — three nonprofit organizations from AEFCU’s service area that earned the most community votes — will each receive $8,614 from American Eagle.

The latest winners are the Asnuntuck Community College Food Pantry in Enfield, the Southington Girls Softball League, and Our Piece of the Pie in Hartford. Through the Cash Back to the Community program, American Eagle has donated $76,571 to local organizations in 2021 alone, and $162,996 since the program first launched in January 2020.

“One of the few things that compares to the excitement of announcing our Cash Back to the Community winners throughout the year is witnessing how this program is helping local organizations grow and continue their important work in our service area,” said Dean Marchessault, president and CEO of American Eagle Financial Credit Union. “Congratulations to our winners, both past and present, and thank you to all those who were nominated and voted. We hope you’ll stay involved, as our last round of the year will commence in the coming weeks.”

AEFCU donates 1% of its credit- and debit-card interchange income to three nonprofit and/or 501(c)(3) organizations each quarter through the Cash Back to the Community program.

“Asnuntuck Community College is honored to have our food pantry selected for American Eagle Financial Credit Union’s Cash Back to the Community program,” said Michelle Coach, the college’s CEO. “Food insecurity has been a struggle for many of our students, and it was exacerbated by the pandemic. This donation will make an immense difference in a significant number of our students’ lives — and they are our community.”

In addition to American Eagle’s donations through the Cash Back to the Community program, AEFCU employees donated $3,461 to the United Way and $8,339 to the American Eagle Fund at the Hartford Foundation for Public Giving. AEFCU employees have provided $33,827 in total donations in 2021. Funds are generated through voluntary payroll deductions throughout the year and distributed to local organizations that American Eagle and its employees support on a quarterly basis.

Ocean State Job Lot Hosting Hiring Events at All Store Locations on Oct. 26-27

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Daily News

NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. — Ocean State Job Lot (OSJL) will host an in-person chainwide hiring event at each of its stores on Tuesday and Wednesday, Oct. 26 and 27, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Candidates who attend the event can learn more about career opportunities, part-time and full-time benefits, 30% associate store discount, a cash bonus referral program, and opportunities for store leadership, supervisory, full-time, and part-time store positions. Ocean State Job Lot will be hosting on-the-spot interviews for all positions during the event.

OSJL encourages applicants from community-based organizations. Candidates who cannot attend the event but are interested in part-time, full-time, and seasonal positions may visit oceanstatejoblot.com/careers to apply.

WNE School of Law Professor Jennifer Taub Elected to American Law Institute

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Professor Jennifer Taub of the Western New England University School of Law has recently been elected to the American Law Institute (ALI), the leading independent organization in the U.S. producing scholarly work to clarify, modernize, and otherwise improve the law.

The organization includes judges, lawyers, and law professors from the U.S. and abroad, selected on the basis of professional achievement and demonstrated interest in improving the law. Taub will join 24 new members from across the country to advance the ALI mission to clarify the law through restatements, principles, and model codes.

At Western New England University School of Law, Taub teaches civil procedure, white-collar crime, and other business and commercial law courses. She was the Bruce W. Nichols Visiting Professor of Law at Harvard Law School during the fall 2019 semester.

Taub joined the faculty of Western New England University School of Law in the fall of 2020. A legal scholar and advocate, she is devoted to making complex business-law topics engaging inside and outside of the classroom. Her scholarly research and writing centers on corporate governance, banking and financial market regulation, and white-collar crime. Similarly, her advocacy is focused on ‘follow the money’ matters, promoting transparency and opposing corruption.

Her book, Big Dirty Money: The Shocking Injustice and Unseen Cost of White Collar Crime, was published in 2020 by Viking Press. Penguin Books published the paperback edition of Big Dirty Money last month with a new subtitle: Making White Collar Criminals Pay, with a new preface and epilogue updates.

Taub was a co-founder and organizer of the April 15, 2017 Tax March, when more than 120,000 people gathered in cities nationwide to demand President Trump release his tax returns. Relatedly, she has appeared on cable news programs including MSNBC’s Morning Joe, MSNBC’s Way Too Early, and CNN Newsroom to discuss the special-counsel investigation into links between Russia and the Trump presidential campaign and the death of Bernie Madoff.

‘True Stories and Tall Tales of the Springfield Quadrangle’ Slated for Oct. 23

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Museums will present “True Stories and Tall Tales of the Springfield Quadrangle” on Saturday, Oct. 23, with tours starting at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. The cost is $10 for the general public and $3 for members of the Springfield Museums.

During this outdoor-only event, museum staff will present famous, mysterious, and sometimes-true stories of the Quadrangle and the five museums on the Springfield Museums campus.

“One of your guides is trustworthy and knowledgeable, and will stick to the well-documented history of the museums,” said Jenny Powers, family engagement coordinator. “Beware what you hear from your other guide; she may make up some stories along the way.”

Tour participants will learn about the museums’ origins, their first collections, and the dreams that made the Springfield Museums a reality today, as well as interesting facts about each building — and a few tall tales to share while trick-or-treating on Halloween.

“Sharing stories is one of the most enjoyable ways we have to connect with one another and with our surroundings,” said Clarissa Leverich, membership coordinator. “And, well, most people do love a tall tale, especially with lots of embellishment.”

Each participant will receive a souvenir flashlight to bring along on the tour. This program is recommended for visitors 10 and up.

MCLA to Celebrate STEM Week with Virtual Programming

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Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — MCLA and the Berkshire STEM Network will offer virtual programming for local public-school students, K-12 educators, and the general community during Berkshire County STEM Week on Oct. 18-22.

A complement to the statewide STEM Week initiative, Berkshire County STEM Week’s theme is “See Yourself in STEM.” Free and open to the public, the week will feature a series of virtual panels, workshops, speakers, tours, and information about opportunities in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) fields in the Berkshires and beyond.

Pittsfield Community Television (PCTV) will be the platform host for the week’s series of events. Community members can access programming on cable access or at www.pittsfieldtv.org. See a full program schedule at www.mcla.edu/stemweek.

Each day of Berkshire STEM Week is theme-based:

• Monday, Oct. 18: Food, farming, and sustainability, with contributing programming sessions from Berkshire Grown: “How to Keep Farmers Farming,” fall owling with Williams College, organic agriculture by Full Well Farm, and a live Zoom session with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts;

• Tuesday, Oct. 19: Careers in STEM, with programs in building trades, nursing, mental health, and design technology;

• Wednesday, Oct. 20: STEM in business, with sessions from Berkshire Innovation Center partners; and

• Thursday, Oct. 21: STEM education, with programs from Flying Cloud Institute, the Berkshire Museum, MCLA, Berkshire Community College (BCC), and Williams College, as well as the MassHire Berkshire Career Center’s virtual job fair from 10 a.m to 1 p.m. Employment opportunities include STEM and manufacturing careers as well as internships and jobs for youth. The program also will have educational resources. An in-person STEM Café will be hosted in the Connector at BCC.

The week will also include all three episodes of “Project Frontline” by Boyd Studios, an internship and job-information session by General Dynamics for MCLA and BCC students, a STEM education panel hosted by Berkshire Innovation Center with educators and students, and in-person STEM family programs at Berkshire Museum on Saturday, Oct. 23. The Flying Cloud Institute will also offer STEM art kits for families participating in Berkshire STEM Week.

HCC Workshop on Nov. 3 to Focus on Life After Retirement

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — Due to popular demand, Holyoke Community College (HCC) has added a second date this fall for its three-hour workshop focusing on life after retirement.

“Rewire: Finding Purpose and Fulfillment After Retirement” will meet on Wednesday, Nov. 3 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on HCC’s main campus at 303 Homestead Ave.

“The Oct. 27 session filled quickly, and we continue to get calls from people who want to take it,” said Michele Cabral, HCC’s executive director of Professional Education & Corporate Learning. “Lots of people are looking for ideas on how to live a more meaningful life and how to create a fun next chapter.”

“A third session is scheduled for April 27, 2022,” she added, “but we know that some people will want to get started right away.”

Many pre-retirees focus solely on their 401(k) and pension when deciding when to retire but neglect to consider how they will find purpose and fulfillment in the next chapter of their lives. A person who retires at age 65 will be active for 20 years or more after leaving their full-time job. The workshop will explore ways retirees can fill those hours they have previously devoted to their careers.

“Retirement is a transition not unlike a career transition where people need to reflect on their interests, preferred skills, and values to determine a new direction in their lives,” said former career counselor Barbara Foster, who will facilitate the workshop. “Today’s retirees are finding new interests and hobbies, volunteering, establishing new businesses, and pursuing new learning in this third chapter of their lives.”

The workshop will offer a series of exercises and self-assessments, as well as time to reflect, brainstorm with others, and develop goals and a vision for this new chapter of life. Participants will also leave with an extensive list of resources to explore.

To maintain safe social distancing, space is limited, so advance registration is required. To register, visit hcc.edu/rewire, or call (413) 552-2500 for more information. The cost is $39. Masks are required in all HCC campus buildings regardless of vaccination status.

BusinessTalk with Peter Picknelly

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Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest, in partnership with Living Local, 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.

Episode 84: Oct. 18, 2021

George Interviews Peter Picknelly, chairman and CEO of Peter Pan Bus Lines

Peter Picknelly says fuel prices affect more than the transportation sector he works in

BusinessWest Editor George O’Brien has a lively, wide-ranging discussion with Peter Picknelly, chairman and CEO of Peter Pan Bus Lines. The two talk about everything from the ongoing workforce crisis to people getting back on the roads — finally; from the many challenges facing those in the restaurant business, to the loss of his good friend, business partner, and restaurant industry icon Andy Yee. It’s a compelling discussion and must listening, so join us on BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest in partnership with Living Local.

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Youth Mental Health Coalition Launches in Springfield

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts (PHIWM) is launching the Springfield Youth Mental Health Coalition, a collaboration of municipalities, public health, schools, social-service providers, and youth working to lift up issues and resources for mental health among Springfield families and youth.

The coalition’s kickoff event, in partnership with the Springfield Public Forum, will feature Dr. Alfiee Berland-Noble, a noted national speaker on mental-health issues in BIPOC youth and young adults across all marginalized identities (including LGBTQ+ and disabilities).

Through funding from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Office of Problem Gambling and the Davis Foundation, the coalition will develop a communications campaign to normalize healthy conversations about mental health, work with schools on tools to support youth mental health, provide trainings to teachers and other providers, develop a peer-to-peer mentor framework, and provide educational webinars such as the partnerships with Estoy Aquí and the Springfield Public Forum.

“For years, we have watched youth health survey data locally, statewide, and nationally highlight the growing anxiety, depression, and suicidality rates of our young people,” said Jessica Collins, PHIWM’s executive director. “We recognize the strengths and courage of young people to do something about this. Together — across age and sector — the Youth Mental Health Coalition is working to lift up incredible insights and ideas of youth and families as well as best-practice strategies to promote youth engagement and protect youth from community environments that exacerbate poor mental health.”

This coalition was formed after an extensive process led by PHIWM to gather information from community voices, local mental-health service-provider experts, and data from existing assessments of community health needs. The planning process narrowed from a list of 15 potential issues to one: youth mental and behavioral health. The recently released report, “Mental Health Inequities Among Springfield Eighth Grade Students,” shows the need for expanding and destigmatizing youth mental-health services.

“To our Springfield community, we invite your participation on the coalition — to offer behavioral-health trainings, education, and resources to your staff and families or attend the educational webinars to learn how to better support our local youth,” said Tiffany Rufino, PHIWM’s Youth Mental Health Coalition manager.

A key component of the coalition is the Beat the Odds youth group convened by Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services. Ariana Williams, director of Public Health for that organization, noted that “Beat the Odds is a safe space for our youth to express their thoughts or feelings without feeling judged or dismissed. Together, we are empowered, and we aim to support one another and youth all over the city. With youth mental health arising as an emerging public-health issue across the nation, our hope is that we can help erase the stigma around mental health for youth and families and promote the importance of a prioritizing a healthy mental state.”

In addition, an overarching advisory committee of residents, agencies, schools, and mental-health providers has been convened, with representatives from the African Diaspora Mental Health Assoc., Baystate Health, Behavioral Health Network, Davis Foundation, Estoy Aquí, Gándara Center, Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services, New North Citizens Council, Out Now, PHIWM, the Springfield Office of Health and Racial Equity, Springfield Public Schools, Square One, and Tamera Crenshaw – Tools for Success Counseling, LLC.

Mortgage Lenders Led by KeyBank Purchase Springfield Plaza at Auction

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Mortgage lenders led by KeyBank bid $23 million Thursday and bought Springfield Plaza at a foreclosure auction, the Republican reported.

The winning bid protected the lenders’ money after other bidders failed to reach the undisclosed minimum bid. Two other active bidders both tapped out after $22.5 million.

According to the Republican, Andrea Mattei, the attorney representing the mortgage lenders, said the banks will likely market the 72-acre complex on Liberty Street to buyers through conventional means.

Previous owners Davenport Companies and Albany Road Real Estate Partners had a $30 million mortgage on the property through KeyBank and the other lenders.

Jewish Family Service Receives Grant to Promote Refugee Economic Independence

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Jewish Family Service of Western Massachusetts (JFS), in partnership with HIAS, has been awarded a four-year, $250,000-per-year Individual Development Accounts (IDA) program grant from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.

The IDA program is a matched-savings program that assists individuals and families to save toward an asset that will increase financial independence. Refugees can save for one of four assets — to start or support a business, to purchase a vehicle to obtain and maintain employment and education, to increase capital to purchase a home, or to invest in post-secondary education or training. Individuals can save up to $2,000, and households can save up to $4,000, and have their savings matched dollar for dollar.

The IDA program provides asset-specific training, financial-literacy classes, and technical assistance to increase participants’ capacity to increase self-sufficiency, become financially stable, and achieve their savings goals.

“JFS is honored to have received this grant for our new Americans in the area. The ability to have this program allows us to offer unparalleled support for economic independence and integration to all qualified new Americans in the area,” said Maxine Stein, CEO of JFS.

Economic independence is the greatest challenge faced by refugees in the U.S. The lack of sustaining income; career trajectories; access to financial education, assets, and capital; and benefits that come with entry and middle-level jobs often mean that refugees face long-term struggles with housing, transportation, healthcare, language acquisition, and health. The challenge of economic integration is underscored by limited access to credit, banking, and networks that can further economic independence.

By enrolling participants in IDA, HIAS and JFS will help refugees establish savings accounts; create regular saving habits; promote participation in the financial banking system; increase knowledge of financial topics, including developing a household budget, building and maintaining credit, and saving; acquire assets to build individual, family, and community resources; advance education opportunities; purchase homes; gain access to capital for microenterprise development; and foster community economic development by which the historically marginalized are now accessing resources and opportunities.

GSCVB Launches Downtown Springfield App

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (GSCVB) has launched the Downtown Springfield Check-in Challenge, a new program that aims to highlight the attractions and restaurants adjacent to the MassMutual Center for convention attendees and anyone else visiting Springfield.

The passport is a free program that visitors and even locals can sign up for. With more than 17 local businesses included within the passport, it showcases the best of Downtown Springfield in an easy, mobile-friendly way.

“Conventions are coming back to the MassMutual Center this fall, and we want to make sure these attendees can find all of the great dining options and attractions located just blocks away from the convention center,” GSCVB President Mary Kay Wydra said.

The GSCVB has partnered with a well-known technology company in the travel space, Bandwango, which aims to support free and paid experiences created by destinations and marketed to visitors and locals. Using this technology, the GSCVB began working alongside local businesses to get their offerings loaded into the Downtown Springfield Check-in Challenge.

Visitors and locals will now be able to visit a dedicated mobile passport landing page where they can sign up for the Downtown Springfield Check-in Challenge by providing their name, e-mail address, and mobile phone number. A link is then sent to their mobile phone, which opens the passport and directs the user to add the button icon to their home screen, where they can access it any time.

Once the visitor has checked into three locations, they will automatically win a pair of Springfield City of First socks designed by local small business Upscale Socks.

Merchant onboarding is still in progress. Any business wishing to be a part of the pass by becoming a GSCVB member can contact GSCVB Vice President of Sales Alicia Szenda at aszenda@explorewesternmass.com. The Downtown Springfield Check-in Challenge is accessible at explorewesternmass.com/checkinchallenge.

New Forecast Suggests MassDOT Underestimated East-west Rail Ridership

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Daily News

PIONEER VALLEY — Yesterday, state Sen. Eric Lesser joined Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin; Kimberly Robinson, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC); and Lyle Wray, executive director emeritus of the Capitol Region Council of Governments (CRCOG) for a virtual press conference announcing significant ridership findings based on a new sketch-level analysis on east-west passenger rail in Massachusetts.

The analysis was prepared by AECOM for CRCOG and PVPC and comes as a follow-up to the Metro Hartford-Springfield Rail Improvements Economic Impacts Study released in April, which demonstrated an addition of up to 40,000 jobs over 30 years and an economic return-on-investment ratio of 10:1.

The East-West Rail Sketch Level Ridership Forecast Update showed that, with the inclusion of direct service to the Hartford line in the east-west rail forecast, ridership estimates increase by 54%. This significant increase in ridership numbers, coupled with the economic-impact study results, comes at a pivotal moment as the $1 trillion federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act moves through negotiations in Congress.

“East-west rail is going to do more than link two regions, it’s going to link all of Western New England with all of Eastern New England,” Lesser said. “MassDOT needs to take this research into account and update their feasibility study to include the economic-impact analysis prepared by PVPC and CRCOG as well as this forecast update from AECOM. Now is the time for east-west rail, and with partners like Mayor Bronin, PVPC, CRCOG, and our federal delegation, I believe that we can get this done to create jobs, address skyrocketing housing costs, and increase economic opportunity for all of our communities.”

Bronin added that “this analysis proves what we already know: east-west rail between Springfield and Boston will make a huge difference for communities in our region. Increasing rail connectivity between cities in the Northeast isn’t just about convenience — it’s about job creation, housing opportunity, and economic growth. I want to thank Senator Lesser for his partnership and his leadership on behalf of Southern Massachusetts, as well as the PVPC and everyone at CRCOG, and of course Congressman [Richard] Neal, who has been a tireless advocate for east-west rail. East-west rail is long, long overdue, and we need to work together to make it a reality now.”

Robinson noted that “today we are again acknowledging the fact that, in order for this once-in-a-generation project to be completed, we will need to work together with our regional partners in Connecticut to present not a singular rail project existing in a vacuum, but rather a critical component of a larger rail system connecting Boston to New York City through a climate-resilient and economically empowering inland route. The real-life ridership figures already enjoyed by the smaller-market, lower-frequency, and longer-travel-time Amtrak Downeaster line tells us a metro Hartford-Springfield line will succeed, and the recent economic-impact study conducted on such an inland-route connection has provided us with a warning of the high-opportunity cost of not completing this project.”

Amherst Couple Gives $1 Million to Cooley Dickinson Emergency Department

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Dr. Lynnette Watkins, the new president and CEO of Cooley Dickinson Health Care, announced the receipt of a $1 million gift from John and Elizabeth Armstrong of Amherst to support the hospital’s Emergency Department.

“It has been an honor and a pleasure to talk to the Armstrongs about their commitment to the Emergency Department,” Watkins said.

The Armstrong’s gift will support Transforming Emergency Care: Campaign for the Cooley Dickinson Emergency Department, a $15.5 million expansion, reconfiguration, and renovation which will allow the hospital to meet the ever-evolving emergency medical needs of community members, from infants to older adults.

For John, whose accomplishments include a 30-year career at IBM and serving as a presidential-appointed member of the National Science Board, supporting the hospital fits in with his and his wife’s philosophy of giving. “Lise and I are blessed to have resources, and one of our main criteria for giving is to help out right where we are,” he said.

Their reasons to support Cooley Dickinson are born of direct experience. “I’ve seen firsthand the growing pressures on the Emergency Department,” John added. “I have been admitted to the ED on at least three occasions, and I’ve witnessed the increasing number of patients relying on the department. Each time, I received excellent care and service despite the fact that the ED can be overcrowded.”

Elizabeth added that “we live in a retirement community with 115 other elderly people, many of whom need Emergency Department services. For their sake, as well as for our own possible future needs, we’re glad to have a role in making the Emergency Department as efficient and up-to-date as possible.”

Cooley Dickinson’s Emergency Department is 40% undersized to meet the community’s needs and cares for many patients who require critical medical attention. The number of patients visiting the department has grown from 17,000 annually in the 1970s to nearly 34,000 in recent years. For those patients, Emergency Department teams treat approximately 300 traumatic injuries per year; last year alone, over 6,000 patients needed to be admitted for further care.

The Armstrongs recognize the urgency of expansion and renovation. They also recognize that hospitals everywhere are financially challenged, due to changes, beginning in the late 1980s, in state and federal reimbursements. More recently, the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to a dramatic slowdown in volume of patients and in revenues, has put the importance of philanthropy into sharp relief.

“Cooley Dickinson is grateful to John and Lise Armstrong for their generosity and for understanding that charitable giving is a critical resource to provide access and deliver the range of healthcare our community needs, demands, and deserves,” Watkins said.

Gifts to the Emergency Department will support more and better designed spaces and increased privacy for patient care, faster access to computerized tomography (CT) scans, improved coordination of care to allow face-to-face communication between providers and nurses, and more patient rooms.

Other planned improvements include enhanced geriatric care, a larger behavioral-health pod, a pediatric observation unit, and a streamlined admission process.

The groundbreaking for the Emergency Department renovations is expected to occur at the end of 2022.

Balagan Cannabis Opens Doors in Downtown Northampton

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Balagan Cannabis, a boutique, adult-use cannabis dispensary located at 235 Main St. in downtown Northampton, officially opens on Saturday, Oct. 16. Balagan, uniquely positioned as the only retailer on Main Street, is committed to small-batch, locally crafted cannabis. The shop soft-opens today, Oct. 14. Saturday’s grand opening will include a ribbon cutting at 9:45 a.m.

Balagan Cannabis is owned by a team of four partners, including native Northamptonite Rachael Workman, daughter of Danny Workman, the former long-time owner of Jake’s. Her partners are veteran cannabis retailer Adi Nagli, New York-based financier Itamar Alpert, and Gil Sasson, who has been running operations next door at Cafe Balagan, the dispensary’s sister outfit, which opened six months ago.

The name Balagan (pronounced bah-lah-gone) is a Hebrew slang term translating loosely to ‘a beautiful chaos’ and pays tribute to the partnership’s strong Israeli roots.

“I grew up downtown, eating two meals a day up at the counter at Jake’s,” Workman said. “When it came time to settle on a location for Balagan, it just felt right to put our money on Main Street. It was counterintuitive in many respects, particularly during a pandemic. Most folks were choosing to set up shop right off the highway, but we wanted to be part of downtown’s resurgence and create a really intentional retail experience to service a local customer.”

In the three years since Mayor David Narkewicz signed Balagan’s host agreement, the team took on a hefty gut renovation of the former Sam’s Pizza space and relocated two of the partners’ families to the area (one from as far away as Israel). The last year has been dedicated to designing a signature retail space with the help of interiors expert Sarah Zashin-Jacobson. Sweitzer Construction provided design-build general contracting services.

“We didn’t take the menu-building process lightly; we traversed the state in search of Massachusetts’ best cannabis,” said Nagli, who also owns a boutique medical dispensary in Maine. “We put together an exceptional and interesting slate of products that customers can’t find elsewhere. And as a mom-and-pop operation ourselves, we dedicated a lot of shelf space to small, independent growers and labs.”

Balagan Cannabis is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Pre-order is available at www.balagancannabis.com or via phone at (413) 727-8361.

Christina Tuohey’s New Book Teaches Children Importance of Gender-free Colors

By
Daily News

LONGMEADOW — As mom to three active children, local author Christina Tuohey, who works as director of Marketing and Outreach at Ruth’s House Assisted Living, part of the JGS Lifecare campus, understands the importance of raising kids to be free of gender stereotypes. To that end, her new book — aptly titled There Are No Girl Colors! — creatively tells the story of a child who learns to appreciate the fact that every color should be appreciated free of gender norms.

The story appeals to people of all ages, which was obvious at a recent event at Ruth’s House. Resident Sue Huggins read There Are No Girl Colors! to a group of children, parents, staff, and residents. After the reading, the children painted ‘kindness rocks’ that will be used to decorate the garden at Ruth’s House.

“It was a beautiful moment for me seeing one of our residents reading my book to the children,” Tuohey said. “The book is about a little boy who learns to love all colors — not just the traditional colors our society once taught.” She noted that some of the boys in the audience came straight from soccer games wearing purple and pink soccer jerseys. “That really exemplified the book’s message.”

Inspired by her three children and her own childhood, Tuohey wrote the book as a way to teach her children that color is gender-free. She grew up with very artistic parents and always viewed colors as gender-neutral, but she realized that was not the case for everyone.

“After having my children, it became very apparent that, according to society, there were some colors that were allowed for boys and some for girls,” she said. “I started noticing that my boys would refuse certain cups or toys or crayons just because they were not traditional ‘boy’ colors — hence the name of the book. Now it makes me feel good knowing children are learning that all colors should be loved and celebrated, and that there are no girl colors, just colors.”

Ruth’s House resident Sue Huggins thoroughly enjoyed the experience. “I loved reading this book to the children,” she said. “It’s a wonderful premise. Plus, having the children on campus made the day even more special. They bring so much joy to Ruth’s House.”

There Are No Girl Colors! is available from Amazon.