GREENFIELD — After the World Eye Bookstore at 156 Main St. in downtown Greenfield moved down the street, the storefront sat empty for almost two years before former landlord Robert Cohn decided to take a new tack to find an appropriate tenant for the 5,600-square-foot space. He contacted local creatives to find out what might be an exciting contribution to the creative economy of downtown Greenfield, and artists and artisans from myriad disciplines suggested that a makerspace could be an economic driver and help create a destination downtown. So Cohn moved forward with finding the team to put such a plan in place, and the Hive was born.

Rachael Katz and Adrienne LaPierre are the project leads working to implement the vision of a state-of-the-art public makerspace. Katz, the owner of the Greenfield Gallery just across the street, is the primary technical consultant for the Hive, with experience that combines the skills of a mechanical engineer with the talents of an artist. She is the sculptor behind the Beatrice the Bee project, the largest public art project ever undertaken in downtown Greenfield, in which six painted bees will be placed around town in celebration of Bee Fest in May 2020. LaPierre, who will be the executive director of the facility, is an educational technology consultant who has spent the past five years working within the Brattleboro public school system to develop innovative ways to integrate makerspace activities and engineering design into the elementary- and middle-school curriculum. They are working with a small, dedicated team of advisors and volunteers to bring the Hive to life. They have applied for a planning grant and have initiated fundraising efforts to cover costs for the first year of development.

The name of the Hive is a tribute to the long-standing legacy that Greenfield holds in the world of beekeeping. In the mid-1800’s, Lorenzo Langstroth invented what has come to be known as the traditional beekeeper’s hive, the Langstroth Hive. Langstroth served as the pastor of the Second Congregational Church on Bank Row, and the church honors his contributions at its annual Bee Fest.

Makerspaces are membership-based community workshops with tools. They combine manufacturing equipment, community, and education for the purposes of enabling members to design, prototype, and produce manufactured works that wouldn’t be possible to create with the resources available to individuals working alone. Makerspaces represent the democratization of design, engineering, and fabrication. They are a fairly new phenomenon, but are beginning to produce projects with significant national impacts.

Traditional crafts will have a home, with equipment like industrial sewing machines, a leather stitching machine, and a community loom. Traditional artisans will stand side by side with engineers operating 3D printers, laser cutters, and CNC machines. Performing artists may design fabric for costumes, and props for plays can be crafted at the same time prototypes for new products created by local innovators and entrepreneurs take shape.

“I’m delighted to support this exciting project that I see contributing to the community in several ways,” said the building’s new owner, Timothy Grader of Holyoke Property Management, who has given the team a reduced rent to leave them time to put all the pieces together to fit out the space. “First, there’s a strong educational component that will provide important job training and project creation on site. Second, the Hive will offer an outlet for creativity and collective expressiveness. Third, it will make a positive contribution to the local economy, thus strengthening downtown Greenfield and beyond. And finally, this resource will build community in an honest, holistic fashion — just what Greenfield needs.”

BOSTON — The state’s November total unemployment rate remained at 2.9%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS) preliminary job estimates indicate that Massachusetts added 5,200 jobs in November. Over the month, the private sector added 4,900 jobs, as gains occurred in leisure and hospitality; education and health services; financial activities; professional, scientific, and business services; trade, transportation, and utilities; manufacturing; and information. Losses occurred in construction and other services, while government added jobs over the month. 

From November 2018 to November 2019, BLS estimates Massachusetts added 48,600 jobs. 

The November unemployment rate was six-tenths of a percentage point lower than the national rate of 3.5% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

“Eleven months of preliminary job estimates indicate that 2019 will be another strong year for the Massachusetts economy,” Labor and Workforce Development Secretary Rosalin Acosta said. “Nearly 50,000 jobs have been added year to date. The unemployment rate has remained at 2.9% for five consecutive months and is 0.6% below the U.S. average. Education and health services maintain the distinction of having added the most jobs and the largest growth rate in the Commonwealth, accounting for nearly half of all the private-sector jobs added since December of 2018.”

The labor force increased by 4,100 from 3,845,600 in October, as 4,900 more residents were employed and 800 fewer residents were unemployed over the month.

Over the year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped two-tenths of a percentage point.

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 — remained at 67.7%. Compared to November 2018, the labor-force participation rate is down two-tenths of a percentage point.

The largest private-sector percentage job gains over the year were in education and health services, other services, information, and financial activities.

SPRINGFIELD — Robinson Donovan, P.C. once again partnered with the Gray House for its Adopt-a-Family Christmas program to brighten the season for deserving families in the Western Mass. community. The Gray House pairs local businesses with families in need to fulfill Christmas wish lists for their children; this year, Robinson Donovan assisted five families. 

“As a firm that’s deeply rooted in our community, partnering with the Gray House is something we very much look forward to each year,” said Partner David Lawless. “We value the opportunity to help ensure that local children have the happy holiday they deserve.”

Through the help of businesses like Robinson Donovan, the Gray House was able to provide more than 800 gifts from children’s wish lists in 2018. In addition to the Adopt-a-Family Christmas program, the organization hosts a general toy drive for children in the community with the help of local schools and shelters.

Robinson Donovan believes in philanthropy and partners with charities year-round, providing funds and support for organizations throughout the Pioneer Valley. These organizations include Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Hampden County, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Springfield Museums, and Homework House.

HOLYOKE — An introductory course at Holyoke Community College (HCC) for people interested in starting a cannabis business has been rescheduled for Thursday, Feb. 6. The three-hour class, run by the Cannabis Education Center, was cancelled on Dec. 6 due to weather. 

The Cannabis Education Center is a partnership between HCC and C3RN, the Cannabis Community Care and Research Network.

“How to Start a Cannabis Business” will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on HCC’s main campus, 303 Homestead Ave. The course, which costs $99, is a comprehensive introductory session about starting a cannabis business.

Other upcoming Cannabis Education Center classes include:

• “Professional Cannabis Business Plan Development,” on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. This $199 course is for experienced cannabis entrepreneurs who need assistance developing a business plan; and

• “Medical Cannabis 101,” on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 6 to 9 p.m. in the HCC Kittredge Center, a course for dispensary agents and healthcare providers. The cost is $99. 

Space is limited, so advance registration and pre-payment are required for all courses. No walk-ins will be allowed. To register, visit hcc.edu/bcs and click on ‘Cannabis Education.’

SPRINGFIELD — Way Finders Inc. announced that President and CEO Peter Gagliardi will retire in June 2020 after more than 28 years of service to the organization.

Since 1991, Gagliardi has served communities in Western Mass. at Way Finders. He has seen the organization through significant growth, including the restoration and development of more than 1,000 units of affordable housing, becoming a chartered member of NeighborWorks America in 2008, and, most recently, the construction of a new Housing Center in downtown Springfield that is due to open its doors in April 2020.

Under Gagliardi’s leadership, Way Finders has become the largest nonprofit housing provider in Western Mass. Last year, the organization impacted the lives of more than 50,000 men, women, and children by providing housing counseling, emergency shelter, affordable-housing development and management, financial education and first-time-homebuyer workshops, employment training and retention services, and neighborhood revitalization. Governed by a 21-member board of directors, Way Finders and its subsidiaries, Common Capital Inc. and MBL Housing and Development, has a staff of more than 240 employees and an annual budget, including its subsidiaries, of $87 million.

“For more than a decade, I’ve enjoyed working with Peter, getting to know him personally and professionally. He has led the organization through turbulent times, weathering literal and economic storms to which others succumbed,” said Trevis Wray, president of Way Finders’ board of directors. “I read that character can be considered the congruence between values and actions, and it is clear what Peter values: commitment, consistency, integrity, and trust. Peter has led an organization built on trustworthy partnerships and has been open to new ideas and always accessible. On behalf of the entire board, I thank Peter for being an exceptional leader and partner.”

Added Gagliardi, “I have been honored to serve as Way Finders’ president and CEO for so many years, and to work alongside such dedicated and passionate colleagues and partners. Together, we have responded to the ever-changing needs of the community by developing new and innovative programs that deliver housing, employment, and economic-mobility opportunities to individuals and families in our region. I have full confidence in the Way Finders team to continue our important work; we have a strong mix of seasoned professionals and up-and-coming leaders. It’s an exciting time for the organization, and I’ll embrace my new role as an advocate and supporter of Way Finders’ mission to light pathways and open doors to homes and communities where people thrive.”

Way Finders’ board of directors has formed a hiring committee and has engaged Marcum LLP to lead a national search for a new CEO beginning in January.

HOLYOKE — Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. announced the hiring of Corey Jenkins as senior associate in the Audit and Accounting department.

Jenkins comes to the firm from New York, where she spent five years as a public accountant.

Jenkins received her master’s degree in accounting from the University of Albany. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and a certified public accountant in the state of New York. She is a strong communicator and is personally invested in helping clients succeed and grow, said MBK Managing Partner James Barrett.

“Corey’s not-for-profit and other niche experience adds real value to the firm and is a great benefit to our clients,” Barrett added. “We’re proud that Corey chose MBK as her new home in Western Massachusetts, and we look forward to seeing her grow and thrive in our firm.”

CHICOPEE — After a groundbreaking ceremony Dec. 5 that was attended by state Rep. Don Humason, Chicopee Mayor Richard Kos, local dignitaries, and members of the public, Ruth Willemain’s dream of building a permanent residence for Harmony House, a home for the terminally ill, has started to become a reality.

A foundation and footings have already been poured and backfilled thanks to Cedar Falls Construction, Washburn Concrete, and Chicopee Concrete Service. They are currently seeking carpenters and skilled craftspeople to assist with the framing stage.

On Saturday, Dec. 21 and Sunday, Dec. 22, Harmony House will have its inaugural ‘blitz build’ at 66 View St. in Aldenville. Bella Napoli and bNapoli of West Springfield have offered to supply food for the volunteers. The press is invited to attend.

For more information, visit www.harmonyhousewma.org or call (413) 588-8533.

SPRINGFIELD — Rocky’s Ace Hardware, a family-owned business with neighborhood-based stores in seven states, announced the hire of Joseph Harrington as its new B2B sales manager. Harrington will help guide incremental growth in select territories by identifying and implementing sales strategies, in addition to overseeing the company’s sales team. 

“Joe comes to us with extensive and relevant experience in sales,” said Rocky’s Ace Hardware President Rocco Falcone. “Not only has he worked in the retail space for years, he also has deep ties to communities we proudly serve, having volunteered extensively in youth sports programs. We are thrilled to have him on our team.”

Educated at American International College, Harrington brings business acumen to his new role, paired with real-world experience gleaned from various management positions. He was previously employed by two well-established wall-covering companies in New Jersey and California Paints, based out of Andover, Mass. He has successfully managed sales territories, store openings, and people, as evidenced by the many awards and accolades amassed throughout his career.

“With his history of notable achievements, we’re thrilled to welcome Joe to the company,” Falcone said. “We’re excited to see what the future holds for him and his team.”

CHICOPEE — Elms College President Harry Dumay has been elected to the board of trustees at Norwich University in Northfield, Vt. 

“I am delighted to join the Norwich University board of trustees and bring my life experience to the Norwich community,” Dumay said. This appointment is Dumay’s first election to the board of a college or university. Currently, he is also a board member of Pope Francis Preparatory School in Springfield.

Norwich University is the oldest private military college in the U.S. and the birthplace of the ROTC. Dumay’s election to its board of trustees was made official in October. 

Dumay became the 11th president of Elms College on July 1, 2017. Prior to that, he had served in higher-education finance and administration for 19 years. His past experience at the senior and executive levels includes positions at the following colleges and universities: Saint Anselm College, Harvard University, Boston College, and Boston University. He holds a Ph.D. in higher-education administration from Boston College, an MBA from Boston University, and a master’s degree in public administration from Framingham State University. He earned his bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, from Lincoln University.

Dumay currently serves as a commissioner, treasurer, member of the executive committee, and member of the annual report on finance and enrollment for the New England Commission for Higher Education; is a member of the board of directors for the Assoc. of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts and the student aid policy committee for the National Assoc. of Independent Colleges and Universities; a board member for the Boston Foundation’s Haiti Development Institute; and a past board member of Catholic Medical Center in Manchester, N.H.

HATFIELD — The National Tour Assoc. (NTA) recently presented Jay Smith, founder of Sports Travel and Tours, with the 2019 Bob Everidge Lifetime Achievement Award for dedication to the organization’s mission for more than 20 years.

At NTA’s annual conference, called Travel Exchange, on Dec. 12 in Fort Worth, Texas, Smith accepted the honor from NTA President Pam Inman. Smith has served as a volunteer, member of the organization, member of the NTA board of directors, and board vice chair and chair.

“Jay’s first NTA convention was in 2000 in Salt Lake City,” Inman said. “He has been active, engaging, and leading ever since. He is a positive powerhouse of support. I’m proud to call him my friend.”

Smith was first elected to the NTA board in 2012. He was vice chair in 2016 and chair in 2017. “He continues to be actively involved today as a sponsor and volunteer and as a member,” Inman said, adding that Smith sits on the NTA nominating committee and the owner’s network.

NTA is the leading business-building association for professionals serving customers traveling to, from, and within North America. In accepting his award, Smith said the professionals he has met as part of the network have helped him grow and develop as a business person in the industry. “This is as humbling a moment as I could ever have in my lifetime,” he said.

Smith founded Sports Travel and Tours in 1996, offering tours to baseball games initially and then expanding to include other sports trips in a wider range of venues, including Cuba, London, and Japan.

Support from his staff and his wife, Carol, allowed him to dedicate time to the NTA and its goals. Fellow NTA members helped support the board in achieving those goals. “This is a group award,” he told the crowd of NTA members. “If it wasn’t for all of you on this team, we wouldn’t have been hitting any home runs. We would have been striking out.”

Smith is active in Tourism Cares and Travel Alliance Partners, two industry-focused organizations, and Sports Travel and Tours has been the official travel company of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum since 2007.

NORTHAMPTON — TommyCar Auto Group joined forces with the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Patrick Cahillane for No Shave November, an event devoted to ‘growing’ cancer awareness while raising funds to support cancer prevention, research, education about cancer prevention, as well as those fighting the battle. It’s a month-long journey in which participants forgo shaving and grooming in order to evoke conversations, while raising cancer awareness.

The Sheriff’s Office has a policy that prohibits beards; however, for one month this year, that policy was suspended, and officers were allowed to grow beards for a one-time donation. Throughout the month of November, deputies and staff were given the opportunity to opt out of the dress code, growing out their facial hair, for a donation of $20 to the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament, which supports the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

Employees of TommyCar Auto Group, which includes Country Nissan, Country Hyundai, Northampton Volkswagen, Volvo Cars Pioneer Valley, and the new Genesis of Northampton, also joined in this campaign, donating the money they would spend on shaving to the charity.

In total, the Sheriff’s Office raised $2,700, which Carla Cosenzi, president of TommyCar Auto Group, matched, resulting in a donation of $5,400 to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

“We were honored to partner and match the contributions that the Hampshire Sheriff’s Office raised to the Tom Cosenzi Driving for the Cure Charity Golf Tournament,” Cosenzi said. “Thanks to this event, we’re able to help make a difference and hopefully one day find a cure for cancer.”

SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB) was inducted as a corporate member into the Rotary Club of Springfield on Dec. 6. Nathan Skrocki, regional director, and Keri Davidson-Bravman, vocational rehabilitation and children’s worker supervisor for the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, will be the participating members.

The MCB was sponsored by Rotarian Paul Lambert, vice president of Enshrinement Services & Community at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

MCB was established on July 13, 1906. The organization was originally comprised of three men and two women, including Helen Keller. Its mission is to provide vocational and social rehabilitation services for residents of the Commonwealth who are declared to be legally blind by an eye professional. MCB provides rehabilitation and social services to Massachusetts residents who are blind, leading to their independence and full community participation. Its main office is in Boston, with regional offices in Springfield, Worcester, and New Bedford.

LONGMEADOW — The free monthly Lunch and Learn program at Ruth’s House Assisted Living Residence at JGS Lifecare has announced its topic for Friday, Jan. 17. Dr. Bill Bazin, a chiropractor for more than 30 years, will present “Stress Less in 2020 with Time and Energy Efficiency,” offering strategies to better manage stress and increase quality of life.

Almost 60% of Americans consider themselves stressed and depressed, and stress can play a major factor in heart attacks. Bazin will talk about stress and offer strategies on what to do to deal with it. Topics will include why we have stress; different types of stress; signs and symptoms of an overstressed life; how to get exponential growth from one’s time and energy; strategic planning for one’s life and family; eliminating fear, panic, and anxiety; the five factors of health; solutions for stress that can be done at home, and when to take the next step to deal with stress.

The lunch at noon will be followed by the presentation from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. The Ruth’s House Lunch and Learn program is free and open to the public. Tours of independent and memory-care neighborhoods will be available. RSVP to Lori Payson at (413) 567-3949, ext. 3105, or [email protected]. For more information, visit jgslifecare.org/events.

HOLYOKE — At the Family Business Center’s (FBC) December Log Cabin Dinner Forum, Lakisha Coppedge of Coppedge Consulting, Kimberley Betts of Betts Plumbing & Heating Supply, and Sherryla Diola of Mundo Artisan Foods were awarded grant-funded memberships for the 2020 year. This inaugural grant, aimed at supporting women business leaders in Western Mass., was funded by Encharter Insurance. 

“My goal is to grow our trusted business learning community intentionally, and to increase diversity and inclusion,” said Jessi Kirley, FBC executive director, who collaborated with the women leaders of local partner organizations, including the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, Leadership Pioneer Valley, EforAll, and Valley CDC, for nominations and selection of the award recipients.

Added Tracey Benison, president of Encharter Insurance, “women-owned businesses are critical to the success of small business in the Pioneer Valley. As a women-led insurance agency, Encharter looks for meaningful ways to support women-owned businesses. The recipients of the scholarships are standouts in their professions. We are excited to support their continued journey of learning.”

WESTFIELD — Cannabis Connection Inc. announced that its marijuana-establishment application will be reviewed at the next public meeting of the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) on Thursday, Dec. 19. This moves the company one step closer toward acquiring a provisional license which would allow it to operate as an adult-use marijuana facility in Westfield.

Held once a month, public meetings of the CCC allow the board to consider and discuss matters relative to renewals, as well as final and provisional licenses of interested cannabis companies throughout the state. After submitting and undergoing an exhaustive process, Cannabis Connection has compiled all the necessary components for its application to be vetted and considered.

“We’ve been overwhelmed with the outpouring of community support and the number of employment inquiries we’ve received. Nearly 200 candidates came out to our recent job fair,” said Thomas Keenan, the company’s CEO. “As we navigate our approval process, we appreciate everyone’s continued patience. We will be communicating with prospective employees on timing and next steps by e-mail and will also post updates on our website and social media.”

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) celebrated the 20th anniversary of its annual Giving Tree campaign Thursday, fulfilling the holiday wishes of 375 consumers from four nonprofits that aid and support some of the area’s most at-risk residents.

During the campaign’s closing ceremony, HCC students, faculty, and staff gathered with representatives from WestMass Elder Care, Homework House, the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (MSPCC), and the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home to share food, stories, and gifts.

“Every year, when HCC asks us if we want to be a part of this, there is no way we could say no,” said Brittani Bey, a home visitor from the MSPCC. “All of our families are more than grateful to have something for their child; otherwise, they might not be able to give them anything at all.”

Eleven HCC departments participated in this year’s Fall Food Fest in November, raising $833 for the Giving Tree campaign. The money was used to fulfill 26 gift tags for MSPCC and create gift boxes that included baby wipes, diapers, clothing, books, and toys.

“We have several families who are in shelters right now and questioning where they might sleep tomorrow,” Bey said. “To be able to give them gifts and provide them with something really brightens their day, and we appreciate all of your help.”

Each year during the annual campaign, Giving Trees are set up in designated areas around the HCC campus. Participants choose colored-coded tags from one of the nonprofit agencies based on the age of the recipient and their wish for a gift. The wrapped gifts are then sorted and piled on tables for the closing celebration.

“From the moment the Giving Trees go up, there is some magic and excitement that is generated on campus,” said Kathryn Senie, chief of staff to HCC President Christina Royal. “You see them in the hallways and people taking tags, which is wonderful. It’s really about kindness, isn’t it? And kindness is one of our values at HCC, and when I look at the missions of our community partners, I dare say it’s one of your values, too.”

Senie pointed out that, this year, the staff at WestMass Elder Care made a reciprocal gesture of generosity to the college, collecting and donating 226 pounds of food and supplies to the HCC Food Pantry.

“This is kindness,” she said, “and together we have a collective impact on the communities and the people that we serve, so thank you.”

SPRINGFIELD — Gross gambling revenue at MGM Springfield totaled $19.9 million in November, which were down from October ($21.2 million) and from November of 2018 (more than $21.3 million).

The numbers reflect an ongoing trend where the monthly GGM figures are far below the $34.8 million per month that MGM projected before it opened in August 2018.

The average since the casino opened has been $21.7 million, with a high of $25.7 million in March 2019.

BOSTON — The Baker-Polito administration announced that the state’s Part B individual income-tax rate will be reduced from 5.05% to 5% effective Jan. 1, 2020. This upcoming tax cut represents the conclusion of the statutory process laid out in a 2002 state law to lower the income tax rate to 5% based on certain state revenue milestones, and will return $88 million in FY 2020 and approximately $185 million in FY 2021 to taxpayers.

“Starting in January, the income-tax rate will be the lowest it has been in decades, allowing Massachusetts taxpayers to be able to keep more of their hard-earned money,” Gov. Charlie Baker said. “Our administration is working to keep the Commonwealth’s economy strong while maintaining fiscal discipline, and now we are finally making happen what voters called for almost 20 years ago.”

The 2002 law provides that, for each tax year in which certain inflation-adjusted baseline revenue-growth requirements are met, the income tax rate will be reduced by increments of 0.05 percentage points until the rate reaches 5%. The legislation replaced a tax-rate reduction schedule that had passed by ballot initiative in November 2000.

“Consistent increases in state revenue are triggering this final income-tax rate reduction,” said Administration and Finance Secretary Michael Heffernan. “This is excellent news for Massachusetts taxpayers, and it was incorporated into our assumptions for FY 21, so there is no change in our revenue outlook.”

Part B income includes wages, salary, and many other forms of income, including self-employment income; business, professional, and farm income; S-corporation distributions; and rental income from personal property. The rate associated with Part B income is also applied to several other income categories, including interest and dividends and most long-term capital gains.

SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health received a $1 million grant from TD Bank to further the health system’s commitment to the communities it serves by funding an innovative new mobile preventive health clinic called the TD Bank – Baystate Health Bus.

Baystate Health is one of only four healthcare organizations in the U.S., along with six in Canada, to receive the Ready Challenge Grant from the TD Bank Group to support programs aimed at improving access to early detection of disease and disease intervention.

“While advances in healthcare enable many to lead healthier lives, the unfortunate reality is that not all communities have equal access to quality healthcare,” said Greg Braca, CEO of TD Bank. “We believe that, when people feel better about their health, they feel better about their future, which is why we’re focused on supporting research, solutions, and technologies that make healthcare more accessible for everyone. The Ready Challenge is an incredible opportunity for the bank to help improve the lives of our customers, colleagues, and communities.”

The new TD Bank – Baystate Health Bus will deliver preventive care to people in urban and rural communities who are not receiving services due to financial and transportation barriers, including a shortage of providers in their neighborhoods.

As a mobile medical unit, the bus will be staffed by a multi-disciplinary healthcare team to bring health screenings, early detection, and referrals for needed treatment or other services directly to at-risk individuals.

Today’s patients face challenges accessing care, and often low-to-moderate income at-risk individuals do not receive life-saving screenings, early detection, and referrals, noted Dr. Kevin Hinchey, chief Education officer and medical director of Baystate Health, and senior associate dean of Education at UMass Medical School – Baystate.

According to the 2018 County Health Rankings, the counties served by Baystate — Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin — are among the poorest in the state. Health issues common to the three counties include high rates of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, asthma, and mental-health and substance disorders.

“Patients are faced with a number of barriers, including lack of transportation, financial constraints, and work and family commitments, and in some cases, a shortage of physicians in their community,” Hinchey said. “The TD Ready Challenge Grant will play an important role in eliminating barriers to care in the many communities we serve, as well as allow us to train new doctors to serve the underserved.”

Using a state-of-the-art mobile medical unit, Baystate will create a team that will see people where they are, rather than having them come to a Baystate facility for treatment. “As a result, we would expect to see a reduction in the severity of chronic illness and disease in the low- to- moderate-income at-risk patients we seek to serve,” Hinchey said.

Baystate Health will work closely with its community partners to further identify and prioritize various health issues and identify locations the bus will travel to.

“The 2018 TD Ready Challenge winners have already had an amazing impact on their communities, showing us that this funding can truly make a difference,” said Shelley Sylva, U.S. Head of Social Impact for TD Bank. “We are confident that the four 2019 TD Ready Challenge winners in the U.S. will measurably improve the quality of healthcare access, research, and preventive care for those traditionally underserved in our communities.”

The teaching component to the TD Bank funded program is what makes it “truly unique,” Hinchey added.

Baystate Health, which serves as the regional campus of UMass Medical School, has a long history as an academic teaching hospital educating generations of health professionals — residents, medical students, nurses, midwives, pharmacists, and others — many of whom practice locally. Baystate will use the new initiative to further train young healthcare providers such as doctors, pharmacists, nurses, and others to work as a team and serve urban and rural populations through the school’s innovative PURCH (population-based urban and rural community health) track.

“It is our hope to inspire them to serve needy populations once they enter the profession,” Hinchey said.

The initiative will begin with the development of the program during the first year — building partnerships with educational institutions and community sites, research, and purchase of the mobile unit — followed by implementation of the program.

LENOX — Carr Hardware, a family-owned business for more than 90 years, announced that its new location in Lenox is now open for business.

The 11,000-square-foot retail space is located in the Center at Lenox on Routes 7 and 20. The Center at Lenox is also home to well-known retailers CVS, Marshalls, and Price Chopper.

The new, state-of-the-art Carr Hardware offers a modern and convenient shopping experience with a nostalgic, vintage hardware-store flair, said company President Bart Raser.

“We are truly excited about opening this brand-new, innovative, and complete home-improvement store that features a customer shopping experience specially designed for the Lenox community,” he added. “The store will serve the needs of local business, contractors, resorts, and homeowners alike.”

Preferred brands featured include STIHL, Toro, Pratt & Lambert, Valspar, Cabot, Milwaukee, Dewalt, Weber, Big Green Egg, Scotts, Graber, and Carhartt, to name a few. The store also features a large, seasonal garden center, as well as services like digital key duplication, screen and glass repair, lamp repair, and propane filling. Free local delivery is available as well as the Carr assurance, “at Carr, we service what we sell.”

Unique to the market, Carr Hardware has introduced “Ben Moore 2 Your Door,” where contractors and homeowners can select their Benjamin Moore paint purchase, along with the needed accessories, and have them all delivered within the Greater Lenox area the same day for free. Orders can be placed online, by phone, or by text.

“The opening of our new store in Lenox strengthens our presence in the Berkshires and complements our nearby stores in Lee, Pittsfield, Great Barrington, and North Adams,” Raser said.

HOLYOKE — When Holyoke Community College student Christopher Royster needed help repairing his credit after an incident of identity theft, he knew where to turn — the Thrive Student Resource Center at HCC.

Thrive@HCC is known mostly for providing support to students experiencing food and housing insecurity. Thrive manages HCC’s Food Pantry and provides free grab-and-go snacks to hungry students as well as financial-management and budget-planning consulations. More than that, though, Thrive staff can assist students as they negotiate the complex bureaucracies associated with myriad issues, such as health insurance, food, housing and utility assistance, and credit repair. 

Thrive Coordinator Rosemary Fiedler personally made phone calls on Royster’s behalf to organizations where his stolen identity had been used to open fraudulent accounts.

“Due to the assistance and expertise of Rosemary and Thrive, I was able to get the help that I needed,” said Royster, a 37-year-old military veteran and psychology major from Chicopee. “I was finally able to get my name cleared, and my credit has improved.”

Royster spoke on Dec. 10 at a reception acknowledging a $50,000 donation from PeoplesBank earmarked for HCC’s Thrive center. The money will be used to establish a dedicated fund for Thrive managed by the HCC Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising corporation of Holyoke Community College.

“This gift from PeoplesBank will allow us to significantly scale up the services we provide to students,” said Amanda Sbriscia, HCC’s vice president of Institutional Advancement and executive director of the HCC Foundation. “In so many ways, Thrive at HCC addresses the emotional, physical, and psychological needs of our students so they can come closer to achieving a degree and build a more stable future.”

Thomas Senecal, president and CEO of PeoplesBank, and other officers from the bank toured Thrive and the HCC Food Pantry before presenting a ceremonial check to HCC president Christina Royal and a real one to Sbriscia.

“This is extremely impressive. I’m overwhelmed,” Senecal said. “I’m proud to be working for an organization that can do things like this. As a mutual bank, we have the ability to focus on the needs of the community, and I can tell you, standing here today, it’s pretty obvious where the need is. This is certainly one of those programs that is very worthy, and I thank you for accepting this gift.”

Added Royal, “we’re so grateful, not only for your financial support, but for coming and taking the time to hear about some of the work that we do. A lot of times, when people think of Holyoke Community College, they only think about us as providing educational services. But our students come here, and they are dealing with so many other challenges in their lives, balancing work and school and families and children and sometimes health issues. We’re trying to create an environment where everybody knows Thrive is one of the resources the college offers, and as a student you have access to this and everything else.”

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) has opened a STEM Center that features resources and services to assist students studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Students who visit the facility can use a computer lab and study lounge and take advantage of other services, including exam proctoring, career exploration, and class support. In addition, the center features collaborative spaces for group study, tutoring, supplemental instruction, and group meetings.

“We’re thrilled to open the STEM Center on campus, which we hope will inspire our students to excel in their classes as they prepare for exciting careers in STEM fields or to transfer to four-year institutions to continue their studies,” said Barbara Washburn, interim dean of the School of STEM.

Funded by a U.S. Department of Education HSI STEM grant, the STEM Center offers services and academic support for all students taking STEM classes. With an enrollment of more than 25% Hispanic students, STCC is designated a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI), which makes the college eligible for federal grants to expand opportunities for students.

In a grand opening on Dec. 11, Washburn joined STCC President John Cook and other staff, faculty, and students for a ceremonial ribbon-cutting and open house at the STEM Center, which is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Building 17, Room 425, on the STCC campus.

CHICOPEE — Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) has made a $10,000 donation to the Chicopee Police Department, to be used to purchase an aerial drone for public safety. Drones have become a critical tool for first responders, allowing for additional capabilities for search and rescue, surveillance, crash reconstruction, and other tasks.

“Without the support of a community partner like the Polish National Credit Union, this wouldn’t have been possible,” said Chicopee Police Chief William Jebb. “In today’s environment, there are many times that a drone can effectively accomplish missions for the Police Department in a manner that is safer and more cost-effective.”

Stephen Burkott, who chairs the PNCU board, noted that “this is a wonderful investment that will have long-term effects.”

Added James Kelly, president and CEO of Polish National Credit Union, “when the Chicopee Police Department expressed the need for an aerial drone, we jumped at the opportunity to assist. It’s our civic duty as a community leader to help our municipalities, especially when it comes to public safety. Largely, we owe our success to the wonderful people and businesses that make up our communities. It goes without saying that PNCU will always support the interests of Chicopee and our friends at the Police Department.”

HOLYOKE — The Cannabis Education Center, a joint venture between Holyoke Community College (HCC) and C3RN – the Cannabis Community Care and Research Network – has scheduled three standalone courses for people working in the cannabis industry or those who want to get started.

The first, “How to Start a Cannabis Business,” will be held Tuesday, Dec. 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development on HCC’s main campus, 303 Homestead Ave. The course, which costs $99, is a comprehensive, introductory session about starting a cannabis business.

The next, “Professional Cannabis Business Plan Development,” will run on Thursday, Jan. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute, 164 Race St., Holyoke. This $199 course is for experienced cannabis entrepreneurs who need assistance developing a business plan.

The third, “Medical Cannabis 101,” is geared toward dispensary agents and healthcare providers. That will run on Thursday, Jan. 23 from 6 to 10 p.m. in the HCC Kittredge Center. The cost is $99. 

Space is limited, so advance registration and pre-payment are required for all courses. No walk-ins will be allowed. To register, visit hcc.edu/bcs and click on ‘Cannabis Education.’

HCC and C3RN are designated training partners through the Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission’s Social Equity Vendor Training program. The program was designed to provide priority access, training, and technical assistance to those negatively impacted by the drug war. The Cannabis Education Center is based out of the HCC Kittredge Center.

WESTFIELD — Tighe & Bond Inc. a northeastern leader in engineering and environmental consulting, opened a new office in Portland, Maine this month. The 4,400-square-foot office, located just minutes from Portland City Hall and the Old Port, will allow the firm to better serve its growing base of clients throughout Maine and the region while providing an opportunity to employ professionals native to the area.

Senior Project Manager Dan Bisson will provide leadership for Tighe & Bond’s newest office. Bisson has more than 25 years of experience with management, permitting, planning, design, and construction of water infrastructure projects for municipalities, utilities, and private clients.

“Establishing an office in Portland allows Tighe & Bond to be closer to and support our growing client base in Maine,” said Tighe & Bond President and CEO Bob Belitz. “The new office location will benefit new and existing clients while also providing an accessible location for employees in the area.”

Tighe & Bond’s strategic plan calls for geographic growth to further reinforce its position as a Northeast regional leader in engineering and environmental services. The company is experiencing office expansions and staffing growth in multiple locations throughout the Northeast, adding four offices in the past five years and expanding its Worcester office earlier this year.

BOSTON — Massachusetts health officials lifted the state’s temporary ban on the sale of vaping products on Wednesday, while also imposing a series of new regulations restricting the sale of nicotine vaping and flavored vaping and tobacco products.

This action follows the Legislature’s passing and Gov. Charlie Baker’s signing into law “An Act Modernizing Tobacco Control,” which provided the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) with additional authority to regulate access to tobacco and electronic nicotine-delivery systems, including vapes.

While the governor’s statewide ban on the sale of vaping products, in place since September, is no longer in effect, the new law places the following restrictions:

• Retail stores licensed to sell tobacco products, such as convenience stores, gas stations, and other retail outlets, are restricted to the sale of non-flavored nicotine products with a nicotine content of 35 milligrams per milliliter or less;

• The sale of non-flavored nicotine vaping products (with a nicotine content over 35 milligrams per milliliter) is restricted to licensed, adult-only retail tobacco stores and smoking bars; and

• The sale and consumption of all flavored nicotine vaping products may occur only within licensed smoking bars.

“Massachusetts has taken important steps to protect its residents from the emerging public-health risk posed by vaping products, and with the new law signed by Gov. Baker and the introduction of today’s regulations, we continue to prioritize actions that protect the public health,” said Public Health Commissioner Dr. Monica Bharel. “I continue to recommend that people not use any e-cigarette or vaping products, as these products are not safe. The new law expands the availability of smoking-cessation resources through insurance, and DPH continues to remind people that help is available through a variety of tools.”

Beginning June 1, 2020, the sale of flavored combustible cigarettes and other tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes and flavored chewing tobacco, will be restricted to licensed smoking bars, where they may be sold only for on-site consumption. Also taking effect on June 1 is the addition of a 75% excise tax on the wholesale price of nicotine vaping products, in addition to the state’s 6.25% sales tax.

The new regulations lay out a roadmap for the implementation of the new law, including enforcement authority, penalties for non-compliance, legal signage, and advertising requirements.