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1BERKSHIRE

(413) 499-1600

May 29: 1Berkshire Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Ave., Great Barrington. Join us for the May Chamber Nite in partnership with the Stockbridge Chamber of Commerce. Members of either organization get in free for this networking opportunity. To register, visit www.1berkshire.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700

May 15: May After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Amity Street Dental. Join us for an evening of networking at Amity Street Dental, and find out more about the work of Dr. Hunt, Dr. Castenson, and Dr. Ivancev, as well as their new ‘Amity plan’ for small businesses. Enjoy food from the Pub. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

May 18: Amherst Downtown Lives United Day. Amherst Downtown businesses are coming together to support United Way of Hampshire County. On May 18, several businesses have pledged 5% of sales or a minimum of $250 to United Way.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.franklincc.org

(413) 773-5463

May 26: Chamber Lunch: noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Greenfield Community College Dining Commons. Featuring Mike Kennealy, secretary, Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development. Sponsored by Greenfield Community College Foundation and the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $18 for members, $20 for non-members. Register at franklincc.org or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 594-2101

May 15: May Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Munich Haus. Sponsored by: Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, N. Riley Construction Inc., Polish National Credit Union, USI Insurance Services, Spherion Staffing Services, PeoplesBank, Galaxy Community Council, and the Arbors Kids. Chief Greeter: Stephanie Shaw, Chicopee Veterans Services. Keynote Speaker: Col. Peters of the 439th Airlift Wing. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

May 16: Chamber CheckPoint Legislative Luncheon, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. This event offers chamber members and the community an opportunity to hear from state and federal elected officials. With more than 100 people expected to attend, it is also a networking opportunity. This year’s speakers include Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito and state Rep. Joseph Wagner. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

May 17: Lights On Art & Culture, 5-8 p.m. Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, Chicopee Cultural Council, SilverBrick Mills, and the City of Chicopee are collaborating once again to show appreciation to those who live, work, and play in the downtown area. For one evening, participating businesses will showcase an artist and/or musician. This is a free event.

May 21: Chamber Seminar: “Assessing and Developing Future Leaders” with Michael Kline, PsyD, 8:30-10:30 a.m., hosted by La Quinta Inn & Suites. Series sponsored by Westfield Bank. Cost: $30. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

May 23: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Williams Distributing. Series Sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. Monthly sponsors are Galaxy Community Council and the Arbors Kids. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

May 31: Chicopee Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament, 10 a.m. shotgun start, hosted by Chicopee Country Club. Presented by Polish National Credit Union. Sponsored by First American Insurance Agency Inc., Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Poly-Plating Inc., Hampton Inn, Residence Inn of Chicopee, Tru by Hilton, ICNE, Roca Inc., and Health New England. Cost: $125 per golfer, $500 per team of four, and/or $20 golfer package that includes 25 raffle tickets and one mulligan. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

May 22: Chamber on the Vine, 5:30-8:30 a.m., hosted by Glendale Ridge Vineyard, 155 Glendale Road, Southampton. Join us for a night under the stars. The Floyd Patterson Band will provide music, the vineyard will provide wine, and food will be provided by Little Truc food truck and Crooked Stick Pops. Pre-registration is required, as tickets are limited. The deadline for refunds is May 15. This is a rain-or-shine event. No tickets will be sold at the door. Cost: $25 for music alone, $35 for music and wine. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

June 11: “In the Know” Panel Series and Networking, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Fort Hill Brewery, 30 Fort Hill Road, Easthampton. The Chamber offers the second in the “In The Know” panel series, where a panel made up of Gen Brough, president, Finck & Perras Insurance; Dave Griffin Jr., vice president, Dowd Agencies; and Matt Waugh, president, Waugh Agency Insurance will discuss insurance needs. Get the insight you need to consider to protect yourself and your business. Refreshments will be served courtesy of Nini’s. Cost: $15 for members, $30 for non-members. Pre-registration is a must. No tickets will be sold at the door. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

June 26: Speaker Breakfast: Cyber Breach Symposium, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Williston Northampton School, 19 Payson Ave., Easthampton. Featuring Mat Reardon, Beazley Group. Learn what steps you can take to minimize your risk. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.northamptonchamber.com

(413) 534-3376

May 15: Business After Hours at the Fishway, 5-7 p.m. Every spring, American shad, Atlantic salmon, sea lamprey, and other anadromous fish swim up the Connecticut River as they begin their spring migration. Join us to make connections and enjoy food and drink as we mingle and watch these indigenous fish make their way upstream and over the dam on the first and most successful fish lift on the Atlantic coast. Cost: $10 for members, $25 for non-members.

May 29: Business Person of the Year Dinner Reception, 5:30-8:30 p.m., hosted by the Wherehouse? Join the Greater Holyoke business community as we honor and recognize our 2018 Business Person of the Year, Barry Farrell of Farrell Funeral Home. Additionally, we will be honoring Maria Ferrer of MD Beauty Salon as our 2018 Henry A. Fifield Volunteer of the Year. Make connections and enjoy a hot, plated dinner, cocktails, and a casual program. Cost: $50.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

May 14: Workshop: “Microsoft Word Tips,” 9-11 a.m., hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. This workshop contains a variety of quick tips and tricks in Microsoft Word that will save hours of time. Attendees will learn to add buttons to the Quick Access Toolbar; shortcuts for selecting words, sentences, and paragraphs; and how (and why) to display non-printing characters in a document. Practice using the Format Painter to copy formatting and fix problems with numbered and bulleted lists. Learn to create AutoCorrect entries to correct common typos, and AutoText entries and Quick Parts to easily enter frequently used text. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

May 28: Workshop: “Upgrading to Office 365,” 9-11 a.m., hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

May 14: The 58th annual Golf Tournament, hosted by Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Along with a round of golf and dinner, there will be raffles and a live auction to benefit three $500 student scholarships. Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events. For sponsorships, to donate a raffle prize, or for more information, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

May 20: After 5 Connections, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Betts Plumbing & Heating Supply, 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. This event is co-hosted by MI-BOX of Central & Western MA. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events. For more information, call (413) 568-1618.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

May 23: Stars & Strikes, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by the Tap Room at MGM Springfield. Featuring celebrity bowlers, passed appetizers, and unlimited games. Cost: $20. To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

May 15: Night of Networking with YPS, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Zoo in Forest Park. Bring lots of business cards to this co-hosted event. Mingle, tour, and network for a night of fun and business. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

May 22: Job Fair 2019: Local Jobs for Local People, 3-8 p.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern & Carriage House, West Springfield. The West of the River Chamber will host a local job fair. West Springfield and Agawam businesses along with other employment opportunities will be showcased for the public. High-school students, college students, and adults will attend this event looking to begin or advance their careers. This event is free and open to the public. To be a participating vendor, register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

May 18: Third annual Adult Field Day, 9 a.m. to noon, hosted by Train for Life, Chicopee. Teams compete in games for prizes. Beer and food available. No athletic ability required. Special registration pricing before April 18: $20 for YPS, Train for Life, or Extra Innings members; $30 for non-members. After April 18: $25 for YPS, Train for Life, or Extra Innings members; $35 for non-members. To register, visit springfieldyps.com.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff May 30, 2017

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• June 2: “Spicing Up Your PowerPoint Presentations,” 8:30-10:30 a.m., hosted by La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Cost: $40 for members, $50 for non-members.

• June 17: Third annual Champions of Chicopee 5K and 2-mile walk, starting at the Portuguese American Club, 149 Exchange St., Chicopee. Registration is at 7:45 a.m., and race begins at 9:30 a.m. Cost: $25 per runner/walker, $15 for kids 12 and under. Each participant receives a T-shirt (if registered by June 3) and lunch at the Munich Haus. Part of the proceeds will benefit the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in memory of Nathan Dumas of Lucky Design + Media. Sponsored by Munich Haus, PeoplesBank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, Westfield Bank, First American Insurance Agency Inc., Insurance Center of New England, and MedExpress Urgent Care.

• June 21: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Munich Haus Restaurant, 13 Center St., Chicopee. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members.

• June 29: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Valley Blue Sox, Mackenzie Stadium, Holyoke. Game time: 6:35 p.m. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• June 6: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., “Move the Mountain” with the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, hosted by New City Brewery, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Finck & Perras Insurance Agency Inc. and Westfield Bank. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Refreshments will be available. For more information, call the Easthampton Chamber office at (413) 527-9414 or the Holyoke Chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

• June 28: Speaker Breakfast: “Why Ping-pong Tables Do Not Define Your Business Culture,” 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Williston Northampton School, 19 Payson Ave., Easthampton. Featured guest speaker: Tim Retting of Cincinnati-based InTrust. Sponsored by BusinessWest, Easthampton Savings Bank, Finck & Perras Insurance Agency Inc., Innovative Business Systems Inc., United Personnel, and Williston Northampton School.

• July 13: Networking by Night featuring the Oxbow Water Ski Team, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Oxbow Marina, Old Springfield Road, Northampton. Sponsored by BusinessWest, Fleury’s Outdoor Equipment Inc., and American Boat Restoration. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• July 28: The Chamber Island Golf Tournament, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., hosted by Southampton Country Club. Visit www.easthamptonchamber.org for additional information.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• June 6: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., “Move the Mountain” with the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, hosted by New City Brewery, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Finck & Perras Insurance Agency Inc. and Westfield Bank. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Refreshments will be available. For more information, call the Holyoke Chamber office at (413) 534-3376 or the Easthampton Chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• June 14: Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Year in Review and Award Winner Announcements, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Corporate Leaders. Networking, buffet, and announcement of 2017 Business Person of the Year and the Fifield Volunteer Award winners. Cost: $35. The public is invited to attend. Visit holyokechamber.com to register

• June 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., sponsored and hosted by Slainte Restaurant, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Mix and mingle with your friends and colleagues at this casual networking event. Refreshments will be available. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up at holyokechamber.com.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• June 7: June Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at ConVino, 101 Armory St, Northampton. Sponsors: Keiter Builders and MassDevelopment. Networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

• June 23: “Microsoft Excel: Tips, Tricks & Shortcuts,” 9-11 a.m., at the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. Pre-registration is required; space is limited. To register, visit [email protected]. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

• July 12: Arrive@5, 5-7p.m., hosted by Three Sisters Sanctuary, 188A Cape St., Goshen. Sponsored by BusinessWest. Cost: $10 for members.

• Sept. 13: Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Family Legacy Partners, 48 Round Hill Road, Suite 2, Northampton. Sponsored by Coldwell Banker Upton-Massamont Realtors. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• June 1: Workshop: “Non-Compete Agreements,” 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Attorneys Mary Jo Kennedy and Ryan Barry from Bulkley, Richardson & Gelinas, LLP will present on the subject of non-compete agreements. Topics will include the circumstances in which non-compete agreements arise, non-solicitation and non-disclosure agreements, how to structure non-compete agreements, limitations on the enforceability of non-compete agreements, recent cases discussing non-compete agreements; proposed legislation regarding non-compete agreements; and alternatives to non-compete agreements. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation. Cost: free for members, $30 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door or in advance). Light refreshments will be served. Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• June 5: June Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Stanley Park, 400 Western Ave., Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public. Call the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• June 9: June Breakfast featuring Secretary Jay Ash, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Westfield State University in Scanlon Hall, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. Sponsored by Westfield State University (platinum) and Westfield Gas & Electric (gold). Come hear Jay Ash, secretary of Housing and Economic Development for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, at the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce June Breakfast. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members (paid in advance). There will be a 50/50 raffle to benefit the chamber’s CSF – Dollars for Scholars fund. Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• June 14: June After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Westfield Bank, 462 College Highway, Southwick. Our kickoff to summer is a celebration with a cookout. Refreshments will be served. There will be a 50/50 Raffle to benefit the chamber’s CSF – Dollars for Scholars fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: Free for members, $10 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door). Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• June 1: Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year Dinner honoring Jacqueline Charron of PeoplesBank, 5:30 p.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern Carriage House, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Cost: $55.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• June 7: Business@Breakfast, Annual Meeting honoring the Richard J. Moriarty Citizen of the Year, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Flynn Campus Union, Springfield College, 263 Alden St., Springfield. Cost: $22.50 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for non-members in advance ($35 at the door).

• June 14: After 5 on the Riverfront, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Pioneer Valley Riverfront Club, North Riverfront Park, 121 West St., Springfield. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Register online for events at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• June 7: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., hosted by Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information about this event, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• June 15: Annual Meeting and Business Grant Drawing, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, Agawam. The event will kick off with the welcoming of new Chairman Frank Palange and the incoming WRC board of directors. Two $500 business grants will be drawn the morning of the event. Guest speaker will be Drew Crandall. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members. For more information and for tickets to this event, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
springfieldyps.com

• June 15: Ninth annual Great Golf Escape, hosted by the Ranch Golf Club. Cost: $95, including lunch and dinner. Registration begins at 10:30 a.m., shotgun start at noon.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff January 9, 2018

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

• Jan. 27: BYP Winter Ball, 7-11 p.m., hosted by Country Club of Pittsfield. Let’s take an evening to dress up and enjoy a ball together. It’s an inexpensive way to enjoy an elegant evening with music, heavy hors d’oeuvres, elegance, and an excuse to dress to the nines — and much more — with friends. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Jan. 23: B2B Roundtable, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Polish National Credit Union, 923 Front St., Chicopee. Sponsored by CHH Engraving Inc. An opportunity to connect and increase your contacts, generate leads, and establish relationships with other businesses. Cost: free to chamber members, but limited to one representative per business industry. Call Sarah Williams at (413) 594-2101, ext. 103, for more information or to sign up.

• Jan. 31: ChamberMaster Training, 9-11 a.m., hosted by Hampton Inn Chicopee, 600 Memorial Dr. This is a brief presentation on how to use ChamberMaster for chamber members. This is a great tool for all chamber members for some free advertising. Cost: free to chamber members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Jan. 18: Celebrate Success Event, 5-8 p.m., hosted by Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. The evening will celebrate the successes of 2017, share what has been learned along the way, and examine where the chamber is headed in 2018. The event will honor winners of the Business, Business Person, and Innovative Entrepreneur of 2017. In addition, we will reveal winners of the President’s Award and the Ambassador of the Year. We will also celebrate member milestones. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org, or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• Feb. 8: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Boylston Rooms, 122 Pleasant St., Suite #112, Easthampton. Sponsored by Tanya Costigan Events. This is a great networking opportunity and an opportunity to tour the new Boylston Rooms.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Jan. 10: The Chamber Coffee Buzz Morning Networking, 7:30-9 a.m. Check the chamber website for location. The Coffee Buzz is a great way to jump-start your day with an opportunity to meet business and community leaders while enjoying coffee and a light breakfast. Coffee sponsored by Spradley Deluxe Coffee. Cost: free to the business community. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com or call (413) 534-3376.

• Jan. 17: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and Sponsored by Applebee’s, 225 Whiting Farms Road (at intersection of Holyoke Mall). Join us for a casual networking experience. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and drink specials. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Jan. 24: Candidate & Elected Officials Reception, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Gary Rome Hyundai, 150 Whiting Farms Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by bankESB, Dowd Insurance, the Republican, Marcotte Ford, Comcast Business, Holyoke Medical Center, and Ferriter Law. An enjoyable evening where local and state legislators, administrators, and dignitaries are celebrated. Mingle with this year’s candidates and elected officials in a casual setting. Ticket price includes appetizers, food stations, and drinks. Cost: $40. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Jan. 10: January Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Hitchcock Center for the Environment, 845 West St., Amherst. Sponsored by PeoplesBank. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

• Feb. 7: February Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Christopher Heights, 50 Village Hill Road, Northampton. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

• March 7: March Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by 50/50 Fitness, 251 Russell St., Hadley. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage, a division of Merrimack Mortgage Co. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Jan. 8: January Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Western Massachusetts Hospital, 91 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public. Call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• Jan. 10: January After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Refreshments will be served. A 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for chamber members, $10 for potential members (cash or credit paid at the door). Online registration will be available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

SOUTH HADLEY and GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• Jan. 23: Annual Meeting, 5:30-8:30 p.m., hosted by Willits-Hallowell Center, Mount Holyoke College, 26 Park St., South Hadley. An opportunity for chamber members to socialize with old friends in the business community and make new ones. A cocktail hour will be followed by dinner. The brief meeting will introduce the board of directors, describe the chamber’s various committees and their functions, and open discussion of 2018 calendar/plans/suggestions for the coming year.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Jan. 10: Professional Women’s Chamber Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring author Dr. Valerie Young on “The Imposter Syndrome.” Sponsored by the Eastern States Exposition. Cost: $35 for members, $40 general admission, $25 for students. To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Jan. 11: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Panel discussion, “Workplace Sexual Harassment in the Wake of the Harvey Weinstein Scandal: What Employers Need to Know to Protect Themselves,” presented by Skoler, Abbott & Presser. Cost: $30 for members ($35 at the door), $40 general admission ($45 at the door). To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Jan. 23: C-Suite Conversations & Cocktails, 5-7 p.m., hosted by CityStage, One Columbus Center, Springfield. Members-only event. Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Jan. 18: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, West Springfield. Only members or guests of members may attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you for these events. Register online at [email protected].

• Feb. 13: Lunch & Tour at the Bistro LPVEC – West Springfield, noon to 1:30 p.m. Join fellow members and non-members for a networking lunch at the Bistro at Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, followed by an informative discussion on the value of gaining skills in the trades industry and how we can promote to fill local jobs. Sponsorships are available for this event. Register online at [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
springfieldyps.com

• Jan. 18: January Third Thursday, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, 375 Elm St., West Springfield.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff October 17, 2017

1BERKSHIRE

(413) 499-1600

• Nov. 1: BYP Fall Extravaganza, 5:30-7:30 p.m., hosted by Hilltop Orchards, 508 Canaan Road, Richmond. Join Berkshire Young Professionals at Hilltop Orchards, home of Furnace Brook Winery, for a fall get-together. Wear flannel and boots and enjoy music, hikes into the orchards, wine tastings, Johnny Mash cider beverages, cheese plates, cider donuts, and apples galore.

• Nov. 15: Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Security Supply, 50 Roberts Dr., North Adams. Remember to bring your business card to enter a drawing to win a door prize.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 594-2101

• Oct. 18: Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Salute Breakfast with Kay Simpson of the Springfield Museums, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Collegian Court, 89 Park St., Chicopee. Sponsored by the Arbor Kids and Westfield Bank. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members, including breakfast buffet. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• Oct. 19: Oktoberfest Collaborative Event with Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Munich Haus Biergarten, 13 Center St., Chicopee. Free to YPS and chamber members. Call (413) 594-2101 for more information.

• Oct. 26: Lunch & Learn: New Marijuana Legislation, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Residence Inn, 500 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Sponsored by the Greater Chicopee Chamber and Residence Inn of Springfield/Chicopee. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members, including lunch. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• Oct. 25: The Hampshire County Tourism Council will launch its new tourism guide at Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds, 5-7 p.m. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Nov. 1: Hampshire County Business Bash, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Lord Jeff Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. This event, a partnership of the chambers of commerce of Easthampton, Amherst, and Northampton, is sponsored by Duseau Trucking and the Lord Jeff Inn. It offers members a unique opportunity to showcase their business to a regional audience. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org, or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 534-3376

• Oct. 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Westfield Bank, 1642 Northampton St., Holyoke. Business networking event. Refreshments, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 members, $15 for guests. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register, or sign up at holyokechamber.com.

• Oct. 25: Holyoke Chamber Business Person of the Year/Volunteer of the Year Award Dinner, 6 p.m, hosted by Delaney House, Country Club Way, Holyoke. Social hour 6-7 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. A celebratory dinner honoring the 2017 Business Persons of the Year: Michael Hamel, owner of Hamel’s Creative Catering and the Summit View Banquet and Meeting House, and the Henry A. Fifield Volunteer of the Year, Harry Montalvo, Community Development specialist at bankESB. Cost: $65. Register online at holyokechamber.com, or call the chamber at (413) 534-3376.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• Oct. 19: “Microsoft Excel: Tips, Tricks, & Shortcuts,” 9-11 a.m., presented by Pioneer Training, hosted by Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. This workshop will present tips, tricks, and shortcuts that we have collected and developed over 20 years of teaching and using Microsoft Excel. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops and follow along with the instructor, but this is not required. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members. To register, visit goo.gl/forms/My7lF9Xk1aB7xg0Q2.

• Oct. 24: Start Your Business, 9 a.m. to noon, at TD Bank, 175 Main St., Northampton. Presented by SCORE of Western MA. This three-hour workshop will help you clearly understand the details, challenges, opportunities, and rewards of owning and operating your own business. This workshop is a suggested prerequisite to our Business Planning Workshop. Cost: $25. RSVP, as space is limited. To register online, visit westernmassachusetts.score.org/content/take-workshop-38.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787.1555

Oct. 27: Super 60, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. The 28th annual Super 60 awards luncheon celebrates the success of the fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the region. Cost: $60 for members in advance, $75 for non-members. Reservations for all Chamber events may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• Oct. 19: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Cal’s Woodfired Grill, West Springfield. Must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you for these events. Register online at [email protected].

• Oct. 25: Food Fest West, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, West Springfield. Local restaurants show off their cuisine at this well-attended event. Vote for your favorite restaurant or enjoy a cigar on the patio of Springfield Country Club. A DJ, raffle, and entertainment round out this event. Proceeds raised by Food Fest West will go toward the Partnership for Education and the WRC Educational Fund, which provides grants to businesses for on-the-job training and continuing-education needs. Cost: $25 in advance, $35 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information about this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Nov. 8: Multi Chamber Night of Networking & Open House, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, Burnett Road, Chicopee. Join us for an evening of networking with the Springfield Regional Chamber as we welcome our newest member to the community, Mercedes-Benz. Cost: $10 for members. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information, call the chamber at (413) 426-3880.

• Nov. 16: Lunch N Learn Seminar – How to Promote your Business on Social Media, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by the Carriage House at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Enjoy lunch while learning about the do’s and don’ts of promoting one’s business on social media, including best practices, target audience, boosting, and other aspects of promotion. Cost: $30 per member or guest. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

www.springfieldyps.com

• Oct. 18: Professional Breakfast Series: “The EQ Exchange,” 7:30-9 a.m, hosted by the Colony Club in Tower Square, Springfield. Use emotional intelligence to manage your boss. Cost: free for members, $15 for non-members.

• Oct. 19: Oktoberfest Third Thursday with Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Munich Haus. Join us for live music, light appetizers, and networking. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff March 3, 2020

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com

(413) 253-0700

• March 4: Driven By Community, 5-7 p.m., a multi-chamber event at Mercedes-Benz of Springfield with the Amherst Area Chamber, East of the River Chamber, Greater Northampton Chamber, West of the River Chamber, Hampshire County Young Professionals, and Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield. Sample food, drink, and learn something about area nonprofits. Meet someone new and learn more about businesses in your community. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• March 11: March After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Pulse Café, Hadley. Our monthly networking event with a focus on healthy living and eating. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• April 2: Margarita Madness, 5-7:30 p.m., hosted by Insterskate 91 at Hampshire Mall. Presented by Steve Lewis Subaru. Mix, mingle, and network at our largest signature event of the year. Enjoy an evening of tasty margaritas and vote for your favorite. Local restaurants will showcase their fare, and dozens of raffles prizes will be donated by Amherst Area Chamber members. Cost: $35 pre-registered, $45 at the door.

• April 15: April After 5, 5-7 p.m., sponsored by Paciorek Electric at its DiamondBack Properties, LLC Building, 65D Elm St., Hatfield, with food and drink catered by Grill N’ Chill. Enjoy this night of networking with people from across the Valley. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• March 4, 11, 18, 25; April 1: Her Place at the Table, 7:45-9 a.m., hosted by the chamber office, 33 Union St., Easthampton. A five-part series designed to help women increase confidence and build leadership skills to be wildly successful and take their place at the table. Cost for all five sessions: $99 per person for members, $129 for future members. Pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• March 13: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon, noon to 2 p.m., hosted by Summit View Banquet House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Join us as we salute Greater Easthampton St. Patrick’s Day Committee award winners and enjoy a traditional corned-beef lunch. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for future members. Pre-registration is required; there will be no registrations at the door. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• March 19: Books & Joe with Moe, 8:30 a.m., hosted by the chamber office, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The second meeting of the Chamber Book Club. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• March 24: Speed Networking Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Summit View Banquet House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. We are partnering with the Springfield Regional Chamber for another fun-filled networking event. Kick-start your day and join us for breakfast. Cost: $20 for members, $30 for walk-ins. To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• March 4: March Arrive @5: Multi Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, 295 Burnett Road, Chicopee. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at northampton.chambermaster.com/events/details/2020-arrive-5-march-4-3807.

• April 1: April Arrive@5 netWORK, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Smith Vocational School, 80 Locust St., Northampton. Our netWORK Arrive@5 series will feature a nonprofit in the Greater Northampton Community and invite guests to participate in a project to benefit that organization. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at northampton.chambermaster.com/events/details/2020-arrive-5-network-april-1-3808.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• March 13: St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Westfield State University, Scanlon Hall, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. Platinum sponsor: Westfield State University; coffee bar sponsor: Westfield Starfires; in-kind sponsor: Flowers by Webster. Join us for our annual St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast as we honor our 2020 Sons of Erin Colleen, Brigid Mary Moriarty, and her court; Irish Woman of the Year, Beth Burns; Irish Man of the Year, Mark Hanrahan; Parade Marshal, Packie Smith; and Billy Buzzee St. Pat on the Back, Jim Hogan. The guest speaker is Associate Justice Edward McDonough Jr. of the Massachusetts Appeals Court. The chief greeter is Chuck Kelly. Platinum sponsor: Westfield State University; coffee bar sponsor: Westfield Starfires; bronze sponsor: Armbrook Village; in-kind sponsor: Flowers by Webster. Cost: $28 for members, $43 for non-members. For more information and to register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org/events or contact the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• March 23: Block Party, 4-6 p.m. It’s time to rock the block in Southwick. The Block Party is co-hosted by Your CBD Store, 549 College Highway, and New England Chimney Sweeps & Masonry Inc., 535 College Highway. Join us for an open house to meet the hosts and chamber businesses for drinks, appetizers, networking, and more. Chamber members are welcome. Southwick businesses are encouraged to join the chamber by March 23 for 10% off their membership rate. For more information and to register, e-mail [email protected] or call (413) 568-1618.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• March 6: Outlook 2020 hosted by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., hosted by MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. Cost: $60 for members in advance, $80 general admission. Tables of 10 available. Reservation deadline: Feb. 26. No walk-ins will be accepted.

• March 24: Multi-chamber Speed Networking in partnership with the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Summit View Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($30 at the door), $30 general admission in advance ($40 at the door).

• April 7: Mayors Forum featuring Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt, and others, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Cost: $30 for members in advance ($35 at the door), $40 general admission ($45 at the door).

• April 29: Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. A day at the State House in Boston, hosted by state Sen. James Welch and state Rep. Carlos Gonzalez. An opportunity to spend a day with members of the Baker-Polito administration. Includes lunch and reception. Cost: $180 for members, $225 general admission.

To register for any chamber event, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• March 4: Driven by Community, a multi-chamber networking event, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mercedes-Benz of Springfield in Chicopee. Join us as we network with some of the region’s chambers and organizations. Fun, food, and friends. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• March 19: Mayoral Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern & Carriage House, West Springfield. Presenting Sponsor: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Join us for an informative discussion with our mayors, who will update guests on all that is going on in our towns individually and collaboratively. To register or sponsor, visit www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• April 16: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Riverdale Street, West Springfield. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief intro and company overview. You must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Cost: free for members (plus lunch), $10 for non-members (plus lunch). Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

• March 19: YPS Third Thursday Networking Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Trinity Pub at the Irish Cultural Center. Enjoy free appetizers, a cash bar, and live Irish music. Cost: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members. Register at springfieldyps.com.

• April 16: YPS Third Thursday Networking Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Towne Taproom. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and a cash bar. Cost: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members. Register at springfieldyps.com.

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff February 7, 2017

A schedule of Western Massachusetts Chambers of Commerce events February 6, 2017

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700

• Feb. 8: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Bistro 63 at the Monkey Bar, 63 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Sponsored by UMass Athletics and the Masonic Angel Fund. Come join the Chamber at Bistro 63, a community-minded business, for some Cajun and Italian cuisine. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.amherstarea.com.

EAST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.erc5.com

(413) 575-7230

• Feb. 9: ERC5 Lunch and Learn in Partnership with the West of the River Chamber, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Topic: “Robert’s Rules of Order: How to Run an Effective Meeting.” Guest speaker: Robert MacDonald, executive director, Work Opportunity Center Inc. Cost: $35, including a buffet lunch. Register online at www.erc5.com.

• Feb. 17, March 3, March 31: The Dale Carnegie Leadership Course on Transformational Leadership, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., hosted by Cartamundi, 443 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow. This three-day training is designed for executive senior managers. Cost: $1,600 for members, $1,700 for non-members. (Chamber members: use code 2525 when registering for discount.) To register, e-mail Robert Dickson, president, Dale Carnegie Training, at [email protected] or call (203) 723-9888.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 594-2101

• Feb. 10: Seminar: “Tips and Tricks for Excel,” 8:30-10:30 a.m., conducted by Pioneer Training, hosted by Hampton Inn Chicopee, 600 Memorial Dr. Cost: $40 for members, $50 for non-members. Register at www.chicopeechamber.org.

• Feb. 15: Annual Meeting and Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Register at www.chicopeechamber.org.

• Feb. 22: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Elms College, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• March 9: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., at Nini’s, 124 Cottage St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Web-tactics Inc. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.easthamptonchamber.org.

• March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon 2017, noon to 2:30 p.m. at Southampton Country Club, 329 College Highway, Southampton. Sponsored by AZ Storage & Properties, Finck & Perras Insurance Agency, and Taylor Real Estate. Join us for a feast of corned beef and cabbage as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. This year’s keynote speaker is Northwestern District Attorney Dave Sullivan. Special appearance by The Pioneer Valley Fiddlers. We will also honor the Greater Easthampton Parade Committee Grand Marshals, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Cadieux. We will also recognize 2017 award recipients for the Gallagher Walker Award: Melissa Pike, and the Shamrock Award: Easthampton’s first responders (accepted by Chief Bob Alberti & Chief Motter). Also attending as guests of honor are the 2017 Distinguished Young Women of Greater Easthampton. To register, e-mail the chamber at [email protected].

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 534-3376

• Feb. 8: Economic Development Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the the Summit View Banquet and Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Goss & McLean Insurance, United Personnel, United Bank, Holyoke Community College, Hadley Printing, and Marcotte Ford. Guest Speakers include Marcos Marerro, director of Economic Development, Holyoke; Mike Sullivan, town administrator, South Hadley; and Mike Vedovelli, director of Economic Development, Chicopee. Hear how our community local leaders seek to cultivate a strong, sustainable, and economically vibrant community. Cost: $23 for members who sign up before Feb. 4; $28 for non-members, walk-ins, or members who sign up after Feb. 4. Register online at www.holyokechamber.com.

• Feb. 15: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Conklin Office Furniture, 56 Canal St., Holyoke. Sponsored by DeRenzy Document Solutions. Join us for a casual networking experience. Dress for Success will be on hand to collect new and gently worn business attire. Live entertainment, drinks, catered hors d’ouevres, music, and raffles. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at holyokechamber.com.

• March 8: Chamber Coffee Buzz, 7:30-8:30 a.m., at Loomis Communities, Jarvis Avenue, Holyoke. Sponsored by Loomis Communities & United Personnel. The Coffee Buzz series is a morning networking program that provides chamber members and guests the opportunity to make new contacts and exchange business information over a light breakfast. The format includes a 30-second introduction of each guest, the host has a five- to 10-minute promotional opportunity, and rest of the event is mingling. No charge. Register online at www.holyokechamber.com.

• March 15: St. Patrick’s Day Business Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Join us for our business breakfast as we celebrate the 2017 St. Patrick’s Parade Committee award winners, the Grand Colleen and her court, local business milestones, and new chamber members. Register by March 3 for discounted price. Visit holyokechamber.com or call (413) 534-3376 for more information.

• March 22: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Summit View Banquet and Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Meet up with your business associates for networking, food, a 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Stop in for a bite and say hello to our host, Mike Hamel. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. No invoicing under $20. Register online at www.holyokechamber.com.

• March 24: Leadership Holyoke 2016-17, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Holyoke Medical Center (location subject to change). A series of eight days comprise Leadership Holyoke 2016-17. Faculty members from Holyoke Community College will participate as instructors and facilitators. Community leaders will participate as speakers and discussion leaders. Tuition varies by program and is due at the start of the course. The fee also covers continental breakfasts, the graduation luncheon, and a trip to the State House in Boston. For business people learning to become community leaders, tuition is $600. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 for registration information.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• March 3: 2017 Annual Meeting, noon to 2 p.m., host to be announced. Sponsored by PeoplesBank. A fun meeting with your chamber colleagues, including chamber trivia, where we’ll test your knowledge of our members. A fun wrap-up of 2016 and preview of 2017. Presentation of the Dan Yacuzzo Community Leadership Award. Cost: $35 for members, $40 for non-members. Register online at www.explorenorthampton.com.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• Feb. 6: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the Holyoke Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. Free and open to the public. Call Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• Feb. 8: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Tucker’s Restaurant and Pro Tour & Cruises, 625 College Highway, Southwick. Sponsored by Romeo & Julietta Bags. Bring your business cards and make connections. Refreshments served, and 50/50 raffle to benefit two Citizen’s Scholarships. Cost: free for members, $10 for general admission (cash or credit card).

• Feb. 9: Lunch and Learn: “Robert’s Rules of Order: How to Run an Effective Meeting,” noon to 1:30 p.m., at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Dr., West Springfield. Learn how to utilize common rules and procedures for deliberation and debate in order to place the whole room on the same footing. Guest speaker: Robert MacDonald, executive director, Work Opportunity Center Inc. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for general admission.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• March 22: March Ladies Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. An afternoon of fun and networking.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 9-March 23: Leadership Institute, 1-4 p.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. The 2017 Leadership Institute, designed for mid- and upper-level managers, includes an emphasis on strategies and techniques designed to create high-energy and high-involvement leadership. The institute is a partnership between the Springfield Regional Chamber and Western New England University, with support from MGM Springfield and The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. Tuition is $885 per participant. The institute runs for seven consecutive Thursdays. For questions about the program or the application process, call Jessica Hill at (413) 755-1310.

Net Worth

By BusinessWest Staff July 5, 2010

Sections Supplements

Online Banking Services Surge in Popularity

Karen Buell says banks are being challenged to recognize what tech-savvy customers want, and then provide it.

When online banking was introduced about a decade ago, some people predicted the eventual death of physical branches, while others wondered if people would ever be comfortable transacting business on their home computer. Neither has proven to be true. In the past couple of years especially, Internet banking has taken off, and not just among the younger, tech-savvy crowd. Yet, bank administrators say it doesn’t threaten to close teller windows, as customers simply do more business than they used to through multiple channels. But online banking has created a new competitive challenge — one that area banks are excited to take on.

When it comes to banking, Karen Buell knows how the younger generation thinks. That’s because she’s one of them.
“I’m Generation Y, and I haven’t been to the bank in years — I work at one, but that doesn’t count, does it?” said Buell, Internet branch manager for PeoplesBank. So she regularly asks herself what features she’d like to see in an online banking platform.
“Really, my job is to make sure that anything we can do in our branches can be done online,” she told BusinessWest. “Anything that can be done in person, you should to be able to do at home, 24 hours a day. We know that convenience is the key.”
That convenience is becoming more of a priority for an increasingly tech-savvy consumer base at Peoples and other regional banks. And Buell — as well as others we spoke with — said it’s not just younger customers moving to the Internet to do much of their banking.
“If you asked me a year and a half ago, I’d have said it’s mostly the younger generation, but it’s across the board now,” said Kelly Ryan, vice president of Operations for Berkshire Bank. “I think it’s convenient; it’s 24/7 access, having the information right at your fingertips.”
Lynn Starr, vice president of Systems and Operations at Easthampton Savings Bank, is seeing the same trend — specifically, more banking customers of all ages switching to online banking.
“I also think people are becoming increasingly comfortable with online shopping, using the Internet to search for products, just more comfortable with the electronic world, so to speak,” she explained. “So we see a wide spectrum of customers, from 18 to 65 or 70, using our online platform. It just depends on how comfortable they are with technology and how much they’ve adopted it in other areas of their lives. We don’t see it happening only in the younger generation, but across all demographics.”
That means that online banking has become more than just an innovative offering used by a small number of customers; it’s now a competitive issue, a feature increasingly seen as necessary. And that has required a shift in what services banks offer and how they market themselves to an increasingly tech-savvy clientele.

Logging On
According to a survey sponsored by Fiserv and conducted by Harris Interactive, more than 80% of households with Internet access last year used it for online banking services: to access balances, check account history, transfer money between accounts, or pay bills at a bank Web site — and the number continues to grow rapidly. Among those surveyed, 41% of online banking users said they planned to pay more bills online at their financial institution’s Web site in the coming months.
The major reasons survey respondents said they prefer to pay bills online included speed (79%), ease of use (72%), cost savings on stamps (71%), and control over the timing of payments (71%). In addition, 49% of consumers who use online bill pay said they are less likely to switch banks due to their experience, up from 43% the previous year.
“We believe that consumers will continue to conduct more and more of their financial activities online,” said Geoff Knapp, vice president of Online Banking & Consumer Insights for Fiserv. “Online banking and bill payment is a free service, and a convenient and environmentally friendly way to bank. Consumers are actively becoming fans of the user-friendly, secure services financial institutions are implementing.”
Ryan called Berkshire Bank’s online channel “robust,” noting that, “on the personal side, you can pay bills, check account balances, transfer funds between checking and savings, and get images and copies of cleared checks. But our major project recently has been FinanceWorks, an online financial-management tool for personal Internet banking. We had no marketing on it at first, but close to 1,800 hits in the first 24 hours. The product just sold itself.”
FinanceWorks allows customers to manage all their accounts — even those from other banks — with a single login, create and monitor budgeting categories to show where money is being spent, monitor recurring transactions, and remind the customer when bills are due, among other features.
“My total goal is to look at the infrastructure we have internally, then look at the Internet banking platform and keep it robust,” Ryan said, echoing Buell’s priority of making sure customers have access to as many services online as those who visit the branch — and, in the case of features like the budgeting tool, even more. “We do it because we have to be competitive.”
Fedelina Madrid, vice president and senior marketing officer for Berkshire Bank, added that many banks have a similar structure to their basic online services — again, to stay competitive in an area customers have come to expect — but her institution also offers customers online access to all the bank’s financial services, including investment and wealth-management products.
“Customers expect online banking,” she said, “but when we add network services, we move more customers our way.”
FinanceWorks has also been a hit at PeoplesBank, where customers appreciate the way it aggregates all accounts in one place, so they can see balances and account histories, and are able to set budgets and track spending habits and savings goals, Buell said.
“So if you go to Dunkin Donuts, it’s automatically categorized as dining or coffee, and you can set up a budget for that expense. If you want to spend only $20 a month on coffee and no more, you can tell if you’re close to that goal or exceeding it. It’s a helpful tool for budgeting and tracking. If people see us as a resource to help them manage their money most effectively with the best options, hopefully they’ll choose us.”

Secure Transactions
At Easthampton Savings Bank, “online banking is certainly becoming a much more popular option,” Starr noted. “It’s becoming more widely accepted as people become more comfortable online. We’ve structured our program so that you can do online what you can do in the branch. You can even open up many types of deposit accounts, apply for consumer and mortgage loans, and receive e-statements.”
Those are popular, Starr continued, partly because they give customers instant access to recent activity every time they log in, so they’re not waiting for a mailed statement to discover potential problems, like fraudulent use of their account. Ryan added that eliminating mailed statements, an option many banks offer, also eliminates the risk of the information being stolen out of a mailbox, a factor in identity theft. It also cuts down on paper waste and was part of Berkshire Bank’s recent ‘going green’ push, Ryan said.
Still, when most people think of online banking, they think of convenience, Buell said. “Within our online banking channel, we offer bill payment, transfers, account history, check images, e-statements, things like that,” she noted. “We also offer Direct Connect to Quicken for personal accounts, which allows you to manage your money a little easier, because you don’t have to manually enter all the data.”
Buell was also proud of the next step in online banking — mobile banking, which can be conducted on a wireless device.
“It’s a scaled-down version of online banking, but it allows for one-time bill payment and transfers on the personal side,” she explained. “We’re finding that more and more people are doing things from their mobile device; they want to do things straight from their phone. So our mobile banking adoption has grown immensely; we launched an actual application for the iPhone earlier this year, and since then, our mobile banking option has advanced even further.
“It’s important that we provide all these options,” Buell continued. “We know the demand is there; we just have to bring products to market to meet the demand.”
She noted that it’s a challenge to be among the first to bring products to market, but at the same time, that’s how banks differentiate themselves from their competition — and the online world has certainly become ground zero for that sort of competition.
So, will online banking eventually mean the death of branches? Starr doesn’t think so.
“It’s just another channel,” she said. “When ATMs came out in the late ’70s and early ’80s, we heard that ATMs will be the death of branches, the death of the lobby. And when online banking appeared a decade ago, we heard the same thing, that branches would go away. But it’s just another channel by which customers can do business with us. Some use only the ATM, some use only branches, some use online banking, and some use all of them.”
Starr noted that, unlike the days before Internet banking and especially before ATMs, when people would do more business in each trip to the bank, customers tend make more transactions today and do a little business at a time. In that way, she said, branches will continue to thrive.
But that doesn’t make the virtual world any less intriguing, Buell said.
“It’s an exciting job,” Buell told BusinessWest, “especially in a world where technology is progressing so quickly. Every day brings new challenges and new success. It’s all about creating convenience for the customer. Sometimes I step back and say, ‘how would I want to do this?’”
Good question — especially coming from someone who never goes to the bank.

Joseph Bednar can be reached
at [email protected]

Hire Ground

By BusinessWest Staff October 31, 2005

Chris Russell, owner of AllCountyJobs.com

Sections Supplements

Online Job Searching Sites are Clicking

Chris Russell, owner of AllCountyJobs.com, said catering to job seeker·s immediate needs is the best strategy for growth online.

Chris Russell, president and founder of AllCountyJobs.com, recently overheard an employee recruiter at a trade show remark that she had managed to knock her advertising expenses down by $24,000 in one year, by switching many of her ads for employment opportunities from print outlets to online job boards.

It was a savings that didn’t surprise Russell, who has been working within the
online job search industry for six years. But it was a comment that showed him that others – employers and job seekers alike – are becoming more receptive to businesses like his own.

“It was a good testament to the fact that people are recognizing us more and more as a low-cost alternative to print advertising,” he said, noting that he is seeing that culture change firsthand. “Year after year, I’m gaining more clients.”

AllCountyJobs.com is the parent company of several regional job search sites, including a local offering, WesternMassWorks.com. Russell said his industry has seen plenty of change since he entered the online arena in 1999, but there are some key factors to which he attributes his own success – and that of his
competitors.

“A lot of sites have come and gone,” he said. “People often try to copy other sites when they see an opportunity like this on the Web that they think will be lucrative. But like anything else, you need to have a background in this business to succeed, in Web business, in Web design. Knowledge of effective job search techniques also doesn’t hurt.

“When people are searching for a job,” he offered as an example, “their first priority is targeting the area where they want to work. The second is using a search method that is simple and easy to use.”

The Net Niche

In short, Russell said those sites catering to job seekers that are thriving are those that have paid attention to those trends and others. And one thing people definitely don’t want, he added, is to waste time sifting through hundreds of job listings in which they have no interest.

He said that’s where some job search Web sites went wrong – they tried to reach a national market with one massive site, and succeeded only in overwhelming the public.

Elaborating further, Russell said targeting an audience means focusing on smaller audiences and using the vast World Wide Web as a tool, not trying to reach everyone at once simply because you can. He said serving as a resource for a concentrated group of job searchers was, in fact, the impetus for his business, based in Trumbull, Conn.

“I noticed the Monsters of the world were lumping Fairfield County jobs in with New York City jobs,” said Russell. “So I got started there: creating a site for Fairfield County, which would only include job listings for people looking for jobs in Fairfield County.”

Using the same model, Russell gradually added other regional sites to AllCounty’s repertoire, serving the Hartford, New Haven, and New London areas in Connecticut, theWestchester, Rockland, Duchess, and Putnam
counties of New York, and, most recently, Western Mass., with WesternMassWorks. He plans to add an Eastern Mass. site as well in the near future.

The business also capitalizes on niche markets such as health care, administration, and Web jobs, through separate job boards.

Bill Cloutier, executive vice president for RegionalHelpWanted.com, said his company also began in 1999, as one small, regional job board (HudsonValleyHelpWanted.com, still in existence) in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. The firm now oversees operation of sites in 293 cities across the U.S. and Canada, most of which reflect the name of the region they serve, such as the local SpringfieldHelpWanted.com (in Canada, the ‘HelpWanted’ portion of the address is replaced by ‘JobShops’).

Cloutier agreed with Russell’s assessmennt of the current online job search market.

“Our vision of the market is that recruitment is a local business for the most part,” he said. “We felt we had to do something special to reflect that. So we’ve stayed focused on providing a conduit for seekers to find what they’re looking for, plain and simple.”

Digital Diversity

The gradual expansion of both online services has proven to be a good business model, as have the gradual changes to the sites themselves, all designed to cater to the needs and wants of job seekers.

RegionalHelpWanted includes a number of helpful resources for job seekers, such as articles from their resident ‘career guru,’ Peter Weddle, résumé services, and, like most online job boards, the ability to post an entire résumé right on the site for employers to view.

Cloutier said it’s all part of effectively serving both job seekers and employers, in order to maintain a reputation for results, although he noted that RegionalHelpWanted sites will typically shy away from some of the more trendy online job-seeking tools, such as personality tests.

“We look at ourselves as a quasi-public utility,” he said, “offering what people need without a lot of noise.”

Similarly, while he said the automated systems in place on job boards have become increasingly streamlined and simple to use for both job searchers and employers posting their vacancies, Russell has made the inclusion of a diverse set of resources one of the key facets of AllCountyJobs.

To keep up with the changing face of the Internet and the businesses thereon, he maintains his own job search news and job hunting Web sites accessible through each of the county- wide and niche market sites, and writes his own blog, secretsofthejobhunt.blogspot.com, offering job-hunting tips. He’s also in the process of creating a ‘recruitment referral network,’ a new tool being used by several large corporations nationwide, such as Boeing, to secure quality employees through referrals from current employees or others in the industry.

“The old adage is it’s who you know, not what you know,” Russell said, to explain the newest trend in job hunting. “Companies are finding that their best employees are often found through word of mouth.”

He has even written a book on job hunting: Ultimate Job Hunting Secrets: Essential Tricks, Tips, and Tactics for Today’s Job Seeker, and every new addition to his business, Web-based or otherwise, has served to increase the visibility and, more importantly, the use of his services.

Show Me the Money

But another variable that is contributing to the use of Web-based job searching tools, in addition to convenience and accessibility, is cost.

“Companies using print advertising could be spending $25,000 a year on recruitment,” Russell said, harkening back to that trade show conversation he overheard, “and only about $1,000 a year online. Plus, an employer can submit a one-time post for $99, and that’s attractive to people. I think it has a lot to do with my revenues slowly increasing, year after year.”

Cloutier added that the cost difference could be the most persuasive aspect of
online recruiting for businesses, in particular those with 250 employees or fewer, which have been averse to the practice in the past.

There’s still a large print advertising aspect to recruitment, he said, and online
job boards like those controlled by RegionalHelpWanted.com have yet to eclipse those resources when it comes to the number of employers posting jobs.

However, more and more companies are using newspaper and online classifieds in tandem, Cloutier said, contributing to what is a very gradual shift from newspaper to Web, not a dramatic change in the marketplace.But it’s a change, he said, that is definitely well on its way.

“Currently, only about 20% to 25% of expenditures occur online,” he said. “There is still a lot happening in print. But the experience is so much better online, according to job seekers and employers, that the growth is happening, and we’re seeing a gradual migration of dollars.

“I think there’s a security blanket in print that people are reluctant to give up,”
he added. “But what we’re seeing more of is people holding onto that Sunday newspaper ad, for instance, and substituting the ads they would have placed in weekday editions in the past with online placements.”

Cloutier also noted that online job boards can also target some sets of employers and job seekers more effectively than print outlets.

“One area in which print advertising still works for people is when a company has 20 openings, for example, they need to fill, and they need to cast a wide net. Where newspapers fail, though, is when a company only has one or two openings to fill. Even the size of the ads is restrictive at that point … the print is so small you can hardly read it.”

In addition, Cloutier said, online job boards are increasingly adept at capitalizing on a constituency he calls “passive job seekers.”

“And that’s just about everyone in America,” he said, explaining that such individuals are those who are not currently in transition, but are still surfing online job sites to keep tabs on new opportunities within their industries – essentially, keeping their options open.

“This group of people is really key, and they’re also easier to reach online than in print,” Cloutier said. “Online, the information is right there in front of them … on their computer screen, so they can log on any time and see what’s out there, at home, on the weekends… or on their lunch break.”

The Grapevine

The heaviest traffic hour for most job search sites, in fact, is between 11 and noon, Cloutier said, suggesting that job search Web sites are achieving that goal of reaching job seekers of all types, casual or otherwise,
across the board.

Russell commented that he might have overheard that somewhere, too.
Jaclyn Stevenson can be reached at[email protected]

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff October 29, 2019

1BERKSHIRE

www.bradleyregionalchamber.org

(413) 499-1600

• Oct. 30: Good News Business Salute: Women in Business, 5-7:30 p.m. In recognition of Women in Business Month, we pay tribute to the good work that women do here in the Berkshires. Celebrate at the newly renovated Williams Inn in Williamstown, as 1Berkshire honors four successful area businesses both owned and run by women: Barrington Stage Co., Lenox Fit Inc., North Adams Yoga, and Your Color Connection. Cost: $35 for members, $50 for non-members. To register, visit 1berkshire.com.

• Nov. 13: Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m. 1Berkshire’s monthly networking opportunity continues in November with an event to be held at Wohrle’s Foods in Pittsfield. Cost: free for members. To register, visit 1berkshire.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Oct. 30: Supplier Diversity Programs Community Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., hosted by the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Nov. 5: 50th Anniversary Celebration, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Amherst Insurance Agency. Cost: free.

• Nov. 6: Startup Night at AmherstWorks, 5-7 p.m., presented by Valley Venture Mentors. Cost: free.

• Nov. 7: “Marijuana: Opportunities & Challenges,” 4-6 p.m., hosted by Jones Library. Cost: free.

• Nov. 13: Working Across Generations Workshop, 5-6:30 p.m., hosted by Look Park Garden House. Cost: free. RSVP at northamptonchamber.com.

• Nov. 15: Launching Women Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., hosted by Courtyard by Marriott. Cost: $25 for members, $45 for non-members.

• Nov. 18: Talk on Housing and Employment, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Amherst Survival Center. Cost: free.

• Nov. 21: Diversity and Inclusion Workshop, 8 a.m. to noon, hosted by Hadley Farms Meeting House. Cost: $25 for members, $45 for non-members.

BRADLEY REGIONAL CHAMBER

(860) 653-3833

• Nov 1: First Friday, 7:30 a.m., hosted by Bobby V’s Restaurant.

• Nov 7: Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m. East Street Shops, East Granby, Conn., hosts a free, fully catered cocktail party during an expanded Business After Hours to support Friend to Friend Food Pantry. This event includes not only the Bradley Regional Chamber but also surrounding chambers and community members. The newly renovated center is located at 10 East St. next to Planet Fitness. Come and mingle with members of other area organizations while enjoying open bar and hors d’oeuvres. For those who would like to give, we will be accepting voluntary monetary donations to benefit Friend to Friend Food Pantry. Bring a friend. Registration required.

• Nov 12: Business After Hours, 5:30 p.m., hosted by Bradley International Airport. Tour new updates of the terminals and hear Kevin Dillon, Connecticut Airport Authority chief, speak.

• Nov 14: E-Circle Marketing Lunch & Learn, noon. “A Fresh Approach to Marketing and Sales That Will Drive Business Growth. Registration required.

• Nov 14: USA Mechanical grand reopening ribbon cutting, 4 p.m. USA Mechanical & Energy Services, LLC is doubling its footprint. With the growth of the company in both construction and HVAC service and maintenance, it has added employees, sheet-metal fabrication and warehouse space, offices, and a conference room and training center.

• Nov 20: Ambassador Luncheon, noon, hosted by DoubleTree Hotel/Shade Bar & Grill.

All events are free for Bradley Regional Chamber members, and there is small fee for non-members. The Ambassador Luncheon is a ‘pay your way’ event. Visit www.bradleyregionalchamber.org for more information and to register.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.northamptonchamber.com

(413) 527-9414

• Nov. 7: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Cooley Dickinson Urgent Care, located in the Southampton Shopping Center at 10 College Highway in Southampton. Refreshments will be served, and door prizes from Go with the Float will be awarded. Attendees will also have a chance at one of four $25 chamber gift cards courtesy of Michael Markiewicz, financial advisor. Cost: free for members, $20 for non-members. Pre-registration required. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Nov. 19: Speed Networking, 8-10 a.m., hosted by Inn on Boltwood, 30 Boltwood Dr., Amherst. Start your morning off at this high-energy, fast-paced, fun new way to network. Have some coffee, enjoy breakfast, and then do some speed networking. Cost: free for members only. Pre-registration required. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• Oct. 28: “Nonprofit Resource Roundtable with Jenny Ladd: Fundraising as Program, Program as Fundraising,” noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by the Garden House at Look Memorial Park. How can our fundraising be a form of our programming, and how can programming be part of fundraising? All too often, the person, people, or department doing fundraising are off in a corner separate from the programmatic workings of a nonprofit. Cost: free. RSVP at northamptonchamber.com/connect-campaign-2019.

• Oct. 29: “Health Connector for Small Business,” noon to 1 p.m., hosted by Greater Northampton Chamber, 33 Hawley St., Northampton. Join us for an informative session with Rich Cahillane of American Benefits Group and Chaitra Sanders, account manager for the Health Connector for Business Distribution Channel. This event is part of the Greater Northampton Chamber 2019 Connect Campaign Event Series. Cost: free. RSVP at northamptonchamber.com/connect-campaign-2019.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• Nov. 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Amelia Park Arena, 21 South Broad St., Westfield. Join us for coffee with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. Cost: free and open to the public. Pre-registration is requested so we may give our host a proper head count.

• Nov. 14: Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, 5:30-8:30 p.m., hosted by Shaker Farms Country Club, 866 Shaker Road, Westfield. Join us as we roll out the red carpet and honor our 2019 ‘Of the Year’ Award winners: Business of the Year: Westfield Gas & Electric/Whip City Fiber; Nonprofit of the Year: Westfield 350th Committee; Lifetime Achievement: Sister Elizabeth Oleksak of Genesis Spiritual Life & Conference Center. Cost: $59. Members and non-members are invited to attend. For more information, to become a sponsor, and to register, visit westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618.

• Nov. 26: After 5 Connections, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Rosewood Home & Gifts, 34 Elm St., Westfield. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber’s scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for members and non-members. For more information and to register, visit westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618.

• Nov. 29-30: Westfield #ShopSmall. The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with many local businesses throughout Westfield, will support Small Business Saturday on Nov. 29-30. Forty businesses are featured on a game board. Event sponsor, Staples, will provide a posterboard of the game board for the 40 businesses to display in their window. Another event sponsor, the Pennysaver, will include the game board in its Nov. 21 issue. Shoppers can visit a minimum of 10 participating merchants to be eligible for cash prizes of $500, $300, and $150. For more information, visit westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• Nov. 6: Rise & Shine Business Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. Featuring Roseann Sdoia Materia, author, motivational speaker, and Boston Marathon bombing survivor.

• Nov. 21: Government Reception, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield.

Reservations for all chamber events may be made by visiting www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mailing [email protected], or calling (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• Nov. 7: Food Fest West, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, West Springfield. Local restaurants and eateries show off their cuisine at this well-attended event. Vote for your favorite restaurant. A DJ, raffle, and entertainment will round out this event. Proceeds raised by Food Fest West will go toward the Partnership for Education and the WRC Educational Fund, which provides grants to businesses for on-the-job training and continuing-education needs. Tickets may be purchased online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

• Nov. 21: November YPS Third Thursday. 5-7 p.m., hosted by Worthington Street Pub, 211 Worthington St., Springfield. Join YPS for complimentary handcrafted appetizers and a cash bar with more than 50 craft beers and barrel-aged cocktails. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members. Register at springfieldyps.com.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff January 21, 2020

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

bradleyregionalchamber.org

(413) 253-0700

• Jan. 22: Annual Member Meeting & Luncheon, 12-2 p.m., hosted by the Red Barn at Hampshire College. Executive Director Claudia Pazmany will present our 2019 impact statement and unveil our 2020 vision for the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce. We will salute outgoing board members and ambassadors and welcome new ones. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members. For more information and to register, visit amherstarea.com.

• Jan. 31: Hadley Dental Care Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening, 5-7 p.m. Learn all about the state-of-the-art technology and client-centric care offered by Dr. Tapan Pujara and Dr. Chaitalee Ganatra and celebrate the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for Hadley Dental Care with an after-party, including a champagne toast, next door at the Taproom. Free and open to the public. For learn more and to register, visit amherstarea.com.

• Feb. 6: Amherst Pitch Night with Valley Venture Mentors, 5-7 p.m., hosted by AmherstWorks. A collaboration with Valley Venture Mentors, the Berthiaume Center for Entrepreneurship at UMass Amherst, Hampshire College, the Amherst Economic Development Department, and AmherstWorks, this will be an opportunity to network, meet new and upcoming businesses, and possibly win some cash prizes. Cost: $5 and optional donation to best pitch prize pool. For more information and to register, visit amherstarea.com.

• Feb. 12: Going Green & Saving Green Luncheon, 12-2 p.m., hosted by Hitchcock Center for the Environment. Panel discussion and lunch featuring local experts in sustainability sharing strategies to implement sustainable practices that will save organizations dollars and protect the planet. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members. For more information and to register, visit amherstarea.com.

BRADLEY REGIONAL CHAMBER

(860) 653-3833

• Jan. 29: Legislative Breakfast, 7:30-9:30 a.m., hosted by Doubletree by Hilton Hartford-Bradley Airport, 16 Ella Grasso Turnpike, Windsor Locks. State representatives and senators will hear what’s on your mind regarding regional business issues. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members.

• Feb. 11: TVCA Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Luppoleto Brewing Co., 20 Main St., Windsor Locks. Networking with six chambers, beer or soda drink ticket, appetizers, raffle prizes, and cash bar. Spotlight your business with a sponsorship. Cost: free for members, $20 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• Jan. 30: Celebrate Success, 5-8 p.m., hosted by Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds. Join us as we celebrate the past year, what we’ve learned, and where we are headed. We will honor Liz Paquette, Businessperson of the Year; Glendale Ridge Vineyard, Business of the Year; Casey Douglas, Community Service Person of the Year; and Chris Gallivan, Ambassador of the Year. Cost: $45 per person. Pre-registration and dinner selection are required, and space is limited. There will be no at-the-door registration. Deadline for refunds is Jan. 25. Unpaid no-shows will be invoiced. To learn more and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Feb. 13: In the Know, 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by the Inn on Boltwood, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. Continuing the popular series begun last year, In the Know will feature panelists Jeff Bujak, Prodigy; Michelle Zimora, Z Wraps; and Dan LiBissionnault, Dan’s Power Plant, Fauxmaggio Cheese. They will share what keeps them up at night, how they deal with those issues, and how they handle their quick success. A light breakfast and coffee will be served. Cost: $15 for members, $30 for future members. Pre-registration is required; there will be no at-the-door registration. To learn more and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Feb. 20: Books & Joe with Moe, 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by the chamber office, 33 Union St., Easthampton. This will be the second in a series of four meetings. Join like-minded individuals for an intellectual discussion sparked by reading books. Sponsored by Richard’s Fuel & Heating Co. and Freedom Credit Union. Cost: $99 per person for the entire series. Coffee and a light breakfast will be served. Participants are required to obtain their own copy of the book explored. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• Feb. 5: Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Artifact Cider Project. Monthly networking and connection presented by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Come when you can, stay as long as you can. Featuring libations and flatbreads from Artifact Cider Project in its new taproom in Florence. Cost: $10 for members, $14 for non-members. RSVP at www.northamptonchamber.com/chamber-events/arrive5.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• Jan. 28: Block Party, 4-6 p.m., hosted by Westwood Restaurant and Pub, 94 North Elm St., Westfield. Join us for an open house and meet Westwood and chamber businesses for drinks, appetizers, networking, and more. Chamber members are welcome. Marketing tables are available. For more information and to register, e-mail [email protected] or call (413) 568-1618.

• Feb. 10: After 5 Connections, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Pottery Cellar, the Mill at Crane Pond, 77 Mill St., Westfield. Refreshments will be served. A 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Chamber members and non-members are free. For more information and to register, visit westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 10: PWC Headline Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring Karla Medina, retired Hartford police sergeant and owner and founder of Sudor Taino Fitness. Cost: $35 for PWC members, $40 general admission, $25 for students. To make a reservation, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• Jan. 28: “The Buzz About Cannabis: Marijuana in the Marketplace and the Workplace,” 12:30-5 p.m., hosted by Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield. Featuring leading business, legal, and medical professionals, distributors, and entrepreneurs. Cost: $60 for early-bird registration until Jan. 14, $75 after Jan. 14. To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Feb. 5: “The 2020 Elections: Fasten Your Seatbelts — From Massachusetts to the Beltway, It’s All on the Line” Rise & Shine Business Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. Featuring political consultant Tony Cignoli. Cost: $25 for members in advance ($30 at the door), $35 general admission in advance ($40 at the door). To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Feb. 20: Third annual Fire & Ice Craft Cocktail Competition, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. Cost: $50 for members in advance ($60 at the door), $60 general admission in advance ($70 at the door). To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• Feb. 5: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

• Feb. 20: YPS Third Thursday Networking Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by BarKaya! Enjoy complimentary, handcrafted appetizers and a cash bar. Cost: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members. Register at springfieldyps.com.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff April 21, 2015

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• April 29: ACCGS Beacon Hill Summit 2015, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Massachusetts State House. Hosted by state Sen. James Welch. Day-long opportunity to meet with members of the Baker-Polito administration and the Massachusetts delegation. Reservations are $180 per person and includes continental breakfast, transportation, lunch, reception, and all materials. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 6: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Speed networking — a fast-paced way to work the room. Sponsored by United Personnel. Reservations are $20 for members (in advance, $25 members at the door), $30 general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 13: ACCGS After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Residence Inn by Marriott, 500 Memorial Ave., Chicopee. Join us for our last After 5 of the season for a tailgate party, featuring food trucks with tailgating cuisine, parking-lot games like cornhole and ladder toss, music, and cash bar. Reservations are $5 for members, $10 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 14: East of the River Five Town Chamber Feast in the East, 5-7:30 p.m., at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. Enjoy culinary tastings from local restaurants and caterers to benefit the ERC5 Scholarship Fund. Reservations are $25. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 19: Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year, 5:30 p.m., at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Honoring Anne Paradis, chief executive officer, Microtek Inc. Reservations are $55 and may be may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 26: ACCGS Pastries, Politics & Policy, 8-9 a.m., at TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For political and policy junkies. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 general admission, and includes continental breakfast. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• May 6: After 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Bridgeside Grille, 9 Amherst Road, Sunderland. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call the office at (413) 253-0700. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
• May 27: After 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Florence Savings Bank, 377 Russell St., Hadley. Sponsored solely by Florence Saving Bank. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call the office at (413) 253-0700. Tickets are $10 members, $15 for non-members.
• June 18-21: Taste of Amherst, on the Amherst Common. Featuring 22 individual restaurants on the common for a weekend of fun, food tasting, food demos, live music, kids’ area, zoo, and much more. Hours: June 18-19, 5-9 p.m.; June 20, noon-10 p.m.; June 21, noon-4 p.m. All food is under $5 per item. No entry fee.
• June 23: After 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at J.F. Conlon , 29 University Dr., Amherst. Sponsored in part by J.F.Conlon & Associates. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call the chamber office at (413) 253-0700. Tickets: $10 per member, $15 per non- member.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• May 15: Lunch & Learn, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Hampton Inn, 600 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. “ACA Compliance: Employer Requirements and Management Tools.” Learn about a solid, user-friendly road map for understanding compliance issues. Tickets: $15 for members, $23 for non-members.
• May 20: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Renaissance Manor on Cabot, 279 Cabot St., Holyoke. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
• May 21: Golf Tournament at Chicopee Country Club; 10 a.m. shotgun start. Registration: $125 per golfer.
• May 27: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Elms College. Tickets: $23 for members, $28 for non-members.
• June 13: 5K Road Race/2-mile Walk. Begins and ends at Portuguese Club, 149 Exchange St., Chicopee. Registration: $25 per person; $15 for children 12 and under. Registration begins at 7:45 a.m. Fee includes T-shirt and free lunch provided by the Munich Haus.
• June 18: Mornings with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., at the Willimansett Center West, 546 Chicopee St., Chicopee. Free for chamber members.
• June 24: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Wireless Zone, 601E Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• May 11: Monday Morning with the Mayor. “Getting Down to Business About Business: Casual Conversation with Mayor Cadieux,” 8-9 a.m., at Easthampton Savings Bank, 36 Main St., Easthampton. Free and open to the public.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• May 15: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored and hosted by Pic’s Place, 910 Hampden St., Holyoke. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
• May 18: Annual Chamber Cup 2015 Golf Tournament Celebrating the chamber’s 125th Anniversary, at Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Registration and lunch at 10:30 a.m.; tee off at noon (scramble format); dinner following game with elaborate food stations catered by the Log Cabin.
Cost: $125 per player includes lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart, and dinner. Dinner only-$25. Awards, raffles, and cash prizes follow dinner. Tournament sponsors: Log Cabin and PeoplesBank. Corporate sponsors: Dowd Insurance, Goss & McLain Insurance Agency, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Mountain View Landscapes, Holyoke Medical Center, People’s United Bank, the Republican, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite & Driscoll. For reservations, call the chamber Office at (413) 534-3376 or register online at holyokechamber.com.
• May 21: Chamber Business Connections, 5-7 p.m., in the Atrium in the PeoplesBank building, 330 Whitney Ave. Sponsored and hosted by PeoplesBank. Join your friends and colleagues for this fun and casual evening of networking. Refreshments, door prizes, and 50/50 raffle. Cost: $19 for chamber members, $15 for non-members.
• June 19: 125th Anniversary Gala Ball, starting at 6 p.m., at the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Cocktails at 6, dinner at 7. Enjoy an elegant meal and dance to the music of the Floyd Patterson Band. Join Marcotte Ford as one of the major event sponsors by calling (413) 534-3376. Event is open to the public. More details to follow.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• May 6: May Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored by Whalen Insurance Agency. For more information or to register, call the chamber at (413) 584-1900.
• July 1: July Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored by Pioneer Landscapes and Easthampton Electrical. For more information or to register, call the chamber at (413) 584-1900.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• April 28: Southwick Home to Business Show. Hosted by Tucker’s Restaurant. For more information, contact Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• May 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Renaissance Manor, 37 Feeding Hills Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly coffee hour with Westfield Mayor Dan Knapik. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event.
• May 13: May After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Sponsored by Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity and the ReStore. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members; cash at the door. To register, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.
• May 18: 54th Annual Golf Tournament, at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Schedule: 10 a.m., registration and lunch; 11 a.m., shotgun start; 4 p.m., cocktail hour; 5 p.m., dinner. Title sponsor: Westfield Gas & Electric. Premium gift sponsor: Westfield Bank. Cart sponsor: Doctor’s Express.
• June 1: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Westfield Vocational Technical High School, 33 Smith Ave., Westfield.
Free and open to the public. Register by calling (413) 568-1618.
• June 19: Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Ranch Golf Club, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. Platinum sponsor: Mestek. Golf sponsor: Berkshire Bank. Silver sponsors: First Niagara and Prolamina. Registered attendees of the chamber breakfast can golf at a discounted rate of only $65 at the Ranch following the breakfast. Call Bill Rosenblum, golf pro, to register at (413) 569-9333, ext. 3. Cost for the breakfast: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on sponsorships, to register, or to donate a raffle prize, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• May 19: Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year, 5:30 p.m., at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Honoring Anne Paradis, CEO of Microtek Inc. Sponsored by BusinessWest. Reservations are $55 and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• May 6: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Northeast IT, 777 Riverdale Road, West Springfield. Free for chamber members, $10 at the door for non-members. Event is open to the public. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• May 20: Networking Lunch, noon-1:30 p.m., at the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, 174 Brush Hill Ave., West Springfield. Must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch served while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. Cost: $10 at the door, which includes lunch. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff May 3, 2016

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700

• May 11: After 5, 5-7 p.m., Amherst Golf Club, 365 South Pleasant St., Amherst. The club will be running some fun-filled activities that evening, including a 50/50 putting contest, and attendees will receive a voucher for a free round of golf. Established in 1900, the semi-private Amherst Golf Club is owned by Amherst College and run independently by an incorporated community group of dedicated golfers. The 9-hole layout, which tests all skill levels, was designed by Walter Hatch, an assistant of the famed Donald Ross, and later renovated by Geoffrey Cornish. Cost: $10 for chamber members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 594-2101

• May 18: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Elms College, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members.

• May 20: Golf Tournament at Chicopee Country Club, 10 a.m. start. Cost: $125 per golfer, $600 corporate green sponsorship includes a foursome and exclusive green sponsorship.

• May 21: New York City bus trip. A day on your own in the city. Bus leaves at 7 a.m. and returns at 9:30 p.m. Cost: $55 per person.

• May 25: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Loomis House, 298 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Cost: $10 for members pre-registered, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• May 7: Downtown Cleanup Day, 8 a.m. to noon. General cleanup of downtown, the Rail Trail, Cottage Street municipal parking lot, the banks of the Nashawannuck Pond, and more. Volunteers are needed. No experience is necessary. Register at (413) 527-9414.

• May 12: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., Amy’s Place. To register, call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• May 19: Medallion Speaker Forum, noon to 1:30 p.m. “The Affordable Care Act: The Legal Twists & Turns.” Attorney Eilin Gaynor of Health New England helps employers, business owners, and entrepreneurs navigate the legalities of this important piece of legislation. Complete Payroll Services shares what it means from an accounting perspective. Space is limited for this member exclusive opportunity. Cost: $20, which includes a boxed lunch. For more information, call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 534-3376

• May 16: Annual Chamber Cup Golf Tournament celebrating the chamber’s 125th anniversary, Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Registration and lunch at 10:30 a.m., tee off at noon (scramble format), dinner following game with assorted food stations. Cost: $125 per player includes lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart, and dinner. Dinner only: $25. Awards, raffles, and cash prizes follow dinner. Corporate sponsors: Dowd Insurance, Goss & McLain Insurance Agency, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Loomis Communities, Marcotte Ford, Mountain View Landscapes, Northeast IT Systems Inc., Holyoke Medical Center, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite & Driscoll. For reservations or sponsorships, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 or visit holyokechamber.com.

• May 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Quality Life Adult Day Services, 18 Elm St., Holyoke (behind the South Street Shopping Center). Join friends and colleagues for this fun and casual evening of networking. Tours of the new facility will be available. Cost: $10 for chamber members, $15 for non-members and walk-ins.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) (413) 584-1900

• May 11: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Coldwell Banker Upton-Massamont Realtors at Emerson Way. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Sponsored by Greenfield Savings Bank, Lia Honda, Thornes Marketplace & Emerson Way, and Montessori School of Northampton.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• May 2: Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Mayor Brian Sullivan, the Arbors Assisted Living Residential Communities, 40 Court St., Westfield. Event is free and open to the public. To register or for more information, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• May 9: Workshop: “What to Save and What to Shred?” at Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Registration and networking at 8:30 a.m., followed by workshop from 9 to 10 a.m. Attorney Karina Schrengohst of Royal, P.C. will present an informational seminar providing an overview of state and federal record-keeping requirements. The discussion will cover which records must be saved, where records must be kept, and how long records must be retained pursuant to a variety of employment laws. Cost: free for chamber members, $30 for non-members. To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• May 11: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., Bella Medspa, 3 Court St., Westfield. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to network, and bring your business cards. Refreshments will be served. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• May 23: Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce 55th annual Golf Tournament, East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Registration and lunch, 10 a.m.; shotgun start, 11 a.m.; cocktail hour, 4 p.m.; dinner, 5 p.m. Cost: $500 for a foursome with dinner, or register a single player for $125. Title sponsor: Alternative Health Inc. Premium gift sponsor: Westfield Gas and Electric. Ball sponsor: Westfield Gas and Electric. Cart sponsor: Westfield Bank. Goody-bag sponsor: Liptak Emergency Water Removal. Register by calling the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 or e-mailing [email protected]. Consider donating a raffle prize or a gift for the wine and spirit table raffle.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• May 4: Springfield Regional Chamber Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Natural History, Springfield Museums, 21 Edwards St., Springfield. “The Creative Economy” panel discussion with Helena Fruscio, deputy assistant secretary of Innovation, Entrepreneurship and Technology; and Jeffrey Bianchine, Holyoke Creative Economy coordinator. Sponsored by United Personnel and the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for non-members. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• May 11: Springfield Regional Chamber Economic Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., MassMutual Center, 1277 State St., Springfield. “Creating a Western Massachusetts Renaissance” discussion with John Traynor, People’s United Bank; Rick Sullivan, Western Mass. Economic Development Council; and Dr. Mark Keroack, Baystate Health, moderated by David Hobert, People’s United Bank. Panelists will discuss the Massachusetts economy, local economic-development initiatives, how the region can capitalize on its existing assets, the role of the healthcare sector, and more. Sponsored by People’s United Bank. Cost: $35. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• May 18: Springfield Regional Chamber Kick Off to Summer After 5, 5-7 p.m., Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Informal, after-hours networking. Sponsored by Wolf & Company, P.C. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• May 24: Springfield Regional Chamber Pastries, Politics & Policy, 9-10 a.m., TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Featuring state Secretary of Administration and Finance Kristen Lepore. Cost: $15 for members, $25 for non-members. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• May 4: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Park Square Realty 470 Westfield St., West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Cost: free for chamber members, $10 at the door for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• May 10: Coffee with Mayor Reichelt, 8-9:30 a.m., West Springfield Senior Center, 128 Park St. Join us for a cup of coffee and a town update from Mayor Will Reichelt. Q&A will immediately follow. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• May 19: West of the River Chamber of Commerce Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., Cal’s Wood Fired Grill, 1068 Riverdale St., West Springfield. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. You must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff May 28, 2019

1BERKSHIRE

(413) 499-1600

• June 25: Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Kittredge House, 444 Main St., Dalton. This event is a free networking opportunity for members of 1Berkshire.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700

• May 29: Economic Development Panel, 4-6 p.m., hosted by the Old Chapel at UMass. A presentation of the state of economic development in Amherst and a panel discussion of the community’s strategic advantage as well as a vision for the future of economic development in the Amherst area. A reception to continue the conversation, with bites from the award-winning UMass Dining, will follow. Visit www.amherstarea.com/events to register.

• June 12: New Members Reception, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Powerhouse at Amherst College. Recognizing our newest members with an evening of live music, a signature summer cocktail, food tastings, and networking. Visit www.amherstarea.com/events to register.

• June 13-15: Taste of Amherst, Thursday, 5-9 p.m.; Friday, 5-10 p.m., Saturday, noon to 10 p.m. The Amherst Area Chamber and the Amherst Business Improvement District present Taste of Amherst, bringing together local restaurants and food vendors, live music, carnival activities, and more on the Amherst Town Common. Visit www.amherstarea.com/events to register.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 594-2101

• May 31: Chicopee Chamber of Commerce Annual Golf Tournament, 10 a.m. shotgun start, hosted by Chicopee Country Club. Presented by Polish National Credit Union. Sponsored by First American Insurance Agency Inc., Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Poly-Plating Inc., Hampton Inn, Residence Inn of Chicopee, Tru by Hilton, ICNE, Roca Inc., and Health New England. Cost: $125 per golfer, $500 per team of four, and/or $20 golfer package that includes 25 raffle tickets and one mulligan. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• June 4: CEO Luncheon,11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Tru by Hilton, 440 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. A quarterly luncheon series where CEOs tell of how they rose to their positions. June’s luncheon will feature Christine Judd of Roca Inc. Series sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• June 8: Run the Runway 5K, 10 a.m., hosted by Westover Metropolitan Airport. Sponsored by Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, PeoplesBank, First American Insurance Agency Inc., Williams Distributing, Insurance Center of New England, and Northern Tree Service Inc. This a collaborative event with the Galaxy Community Council and Westover Metropolitan Airport, featuring a car show and festival immediately following the race. Race registration and vendor space still available. Visit www.chicopeechamber.org/run-the-runway for more information.

• June 13: Business After Hours: Interstate Towing Inc. 20th anniversary celebration, 4:30-6:30 p.m. Series sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. Marketing tables available for $75. Free to attend, but RSVP required. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• June 19: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Elms College Campus Center. Sponsored by Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, N. Riley Construction Inc., USI Insurance Services, Spherion Staffing Services, and PeoplesBank. Chief Greeter: Jessica Dupont, Health New England and Dress for Success. Keynote speaker: Meghan Rothschild, Chikmedia. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• June 11: “In the Know” Panel Series and Networking, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Fort Hill Brewery, 30 Fort Hill Road, Easthampton. The Chamber offers the second in the “In The Know” panel series, where a panel made up of Gen Brough, president, Finck & Perras Insurance; Dave Griffin Jr., vice president, Dowd Agencies; and Matt Waugh, president, Waugh Agency Insurance will discuss insurance needs. Get the insight you need to consider to protect yourself and your business. Refreshments will be served courtesy of Nini’s. Cost: $15 for members, $30 for non-members. Pre-registration is a must. No tickets will be sold at the door. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• June 26: Speaker Breakfast: Cyber Breach Symposium, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Williston Northampton School, 19 Payson Ave., Easthampton. Featuring Mat Reardon, Beazley Group. Learn what steps you can take to minimize your risk. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.northamptonchamber.com

(413) 534-3376

• June 5: Business Connections Expo and Business After Hours, 1-7 p.m., hosted by the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. A chance for the public and business people can mingle and connect with colleagues and chamber members over light hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. The expo will end at 4 p.m., and vendors will have the opportunity to break down their tables and head back inside Delaney’s Grand Ballroom to make the connections they were unable to make during the course of the expo. The public will be able to come back at 4:30 p.m. for hot and elegant hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and an open patio with a roaring fire for a regular Business After Hours. Space is limited.

n June 19: Business Person of the Year and Annual Meeting Dinner Reception, 5-8 p.m., hosted by the Wherehouse?, 109 Lyman St., Holyoke. Join us for an elegant evening of recognition as we honor Barry Farrell of Farrell Funeral Home as our Business Person of the Year and Maria D. Ferrer, M.D. Beauty Salon as the Henry Fifield recipient. There will be plenty of food, drink, and connections. Past Business Person of the Year Mike Hamel will serve as master of ceremonies.

• June 26: Business After Hours and ribbon-cutting ceremony, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Pulp, 80 Race St., Holyoke. Join us as we celebrate the grand opening of one of Holyoke’s newest businesses. Pulp is a unique gallery right on the canals featuring the work of artists and makers. There will be light hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine, live music, art, and connections.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• May 28: Workshop: “Upgrading to Office 365,” 9-11 a.m., hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

• June 13: Torch: Our Time to Shine, 6-10 p.m., hosted by the Academy of Music, Northampton. Sponsors: Cooley Dickinson, the Daily Hampshire Gazette, Florence Bank, PeoplesBank, BusinessWest, Leadership Pioneer Valley, Keiter Builders, and Aladco Linen Services. The opening red-carpet reception will feature community-facilitated illustration to envision the future of Northampton, a program with musical entertainment from the Downtown Sounds Co-Op House Band, Pioneer Valley Performing Arts’ Spectrum A Cappella, and the Green Street Brew. The program will honor leadership transitions within the community, including the organization’s own Suzanne Beck and her successor. The evening continues with a party under the stars, food, and festivities behind the Academy of Music. Cost: $150, community investor; $100, chamber supporter; $50, entrepreneur. Register at aomtheatre.ticketfly.com.

• July 10: July Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Miss Florence Diner, 99 Main St., Florence. A networking event sponsored by Delap Real Estate, Northampton Cooperative Bank, and the Hub. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• June 3: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Hampden Village Community Center, 1 Village Green, Westfield. Join us for coffee with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618 so we may give our host a proper head count.

• June 13: Chamber’s 60th Diamond Celebration, 5-8:30 p.m., hosted by the Ranch Golf Club, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. Sponsored by Diamond, Mestek Inc., Berkshire Bank, United Bank, Arrha Credit Union, Rehab Resolutions, G.I.L.T.E. Bakery Service, and Adform Interiors. Join us for dinner as the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce celebrates 60 years of service to our business community. Join us for a walk down memory lane, and learn what is happening now and what the future will bring for the chamber. During the cocktail hour, network with some old friends, and hopefully make new ones. For every two tickets sold, you will receive a $100 gift card from the chamber to Andrew Grant Diamond Center. Guests will also receive a commemorative pin. Cost: $60 per person. Register online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events. For sponsorships or more information, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• June 17: After 5 Connections, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Westfield Bank, 462 College Highway, Southwick. Refreshments will be served. A 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for chamber members, $15 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door). Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events. For more information, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• June 5: “Live from Springfield! It’s Wednesday Night Live,” annual meeting and celebration and Leadership Institute graduation, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by Sheraton Springfield. Cost: $75 for members in advance, $85 for general admission. To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• June 19: “Powering Your Exports,” a program for manufacturing and tech companies, 8:30-10:30 a.m., hosted by TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Presented by the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network and the Massachusetts Export Center. Registration is free at www.msbdc.org.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• June 5: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., hosted By Trinity Pub/Irish Cultural Center, West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• June 13: Annual Breakfast and Morning of Comedy, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, Agawam. The event will kick off with the welcoming of new chairman Ryan McLane and the incoming WRC board of directors. Then join us for a few laughs with comedian Tom Hayes from North Shore Comedy in Boston. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members. Sponsorships and program advertising available. For more information and tickets to this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

• June 13: Networking Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by 350 Grill. Join us for our signature networking night and enjoy appetizers. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members.

• June 25: Leadership Luncheon, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Valley Venture Mentors, 276 Bridge St., Springfield. Enjoy an informal lunch and networking while hearing from Kristin Leutz, CEO of Valley Venture Mentors. Cost: free for members, $15 for non-members.

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff February 23, 2016

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• March 31: Margarita Madness 2016, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley. Cost: $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at TD Bank on Triangle Street or Greenfield Savings Bank on University Drive, as well as the chamber office. You must be over the age of 21 to participate. If you are interested in participating or sponsoring, contact the chamber office at (413) 253-0700.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• March 4: Shining Stars Gala, 6:30-10 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Honoring the following: Business of the Year – Marois Construction Co. Inc.; Citizen of the Year – Sheriff Michael J. Ashe Jr.; Chamber Volunteer of the Year – David Malloy, United Personnel; Nonprofit Organization of the Year – Sunshine Village. This event is sponsored by presenting sponsor Zasco Productions, LLC; diamond sponsor Chicopee Savings Bank; platinum sponsors A. Crane Construction Co. and N. Riley Construction Co.; gold sponsors Elms College, Hampton Inn – Chicopee, Health New England, the Homebuilders & Remodelers Assoc. of Western Massachusetts, and Polish National Credit Union; and silver sponsor NUVO Bank & Trust Co. Cost: $60 per person.

• March 9: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• March 10: VIP Networking, 6-9 p.m., at Yankee Candle, 25 Deerfield Road, South Deerfield, co-sponsored by the Greater Easthampton and Amherst Area chambers. Enjoy an evening at Yankee Candle and take advantage of 25% off of your total purchases (excluding Alex & Ani, Pandora, and currently discounted merchandise). The evening includes cooking demos, scavenger-hunt appetizers, music, and cheer. Beverage sponsor: Hangar Pub & Grill. Menu sponsor: Chandler’s. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• March 18: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon 2016, noon-2 p.m., at Southampton Country Club. Join us for a feast of corned beef and cabbage as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Mayor Karen Cadieux joins us as our keynote speaker. We honor the Greater Easthampton Parade Committee Grand Marshal Coreen Foote. Congratulations also to: Sylvia Gallagher, Gallagher Walker Award; Erin Kelly and Anna Morrissey, Scholarship Award; and Kim Bush, Shamrock Award. Mihn Sullivan will be the guest of honor as the 2016 Distinguished Young Woman of Greater Easthampton. Event Sponsors: Finck & Perras Insurance Agency Inc., Taylor Real Estate, Easthampton Savings Bank, and Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• March 16: St. Pat’s Business Breakfast 2016, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank, Holyoke Mall at Ingleside, and Hadley Printing. Tables reserved for groups of eight or 10 people. Join us as we celebrate St. Patrick’s Parade Committee award winners, the colleen and her court, and the following new chamber members: Creaciones Jahhai Boutique, Mr. Gio, Cultivate & Nest Inc., Therapeutic Equestrian Center, Underwood Photography, Hot Oven Cookies, NeWave Hydrographics, and Studio 20 Salon. Cost: $30 for members, $40 for non-members. Deadline to register: March 14 at noon. No walk-ins, please.

• March 23: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by Marcotte Ford, 1025 Main St., Holyoke. Food, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 if you would like to bring a door prize or if you’re interested in a marketing table for $25.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• March 2: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Rockridge Retirement Community, 25 and 37 Coles Meadow Road, Northampton. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Sponsors: Pro Terra Design Group, LLC, Highview of Northampton, and the Northampton St. Patrick’s Assoc. Friends of Forbes Library. Cost: $10 for members.

• March 10: Workshop, “Introduction to Google Docs and Google Drive,” 9-11 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. The class is an introduction to Google Docs and Google Drive, the online storage location for Google Docs. Since this software is available at no cost, many organizations are using it extensively for collaboration purposes and to supplement Microsoft Office. In this two-hour workshop, you’ll learn how to set up a local Google Drive folder, create new documents in the Google Docs format, work with Word documents in Google Docs, and convert Word documents to the Google Docs format. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops and follow along with the instructor, but this is not required. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, e-mail [email protected]. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

• March 17: 36th annual St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Hotel Northampton Grand Ballroom. A parade to Fitzwilly’s follows the breakfast. Cost: $25 per person; tables of 10 are also available for $250.

• March 24: Workshop, “Tips, Tricks & Shortcuts in Microsoft Excel,” 9-11 a.m., at Greenfield Savings Bank, 325A King St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. This workshop will present our favorite tips, tricks, and shortcuts that we have collected and developed over 15 years of teaching and using Microsoft Excel. Topics will include shortcuts for selecting ranges, using Autofill to create a series of dates or numbers, setting the print area, using page-break preview, adding headers and footers, using page-layout view, grouping spreadsheets in the same workbook in order to type or format more than one sheet at the same time, and creating 3-D formulas that calculate across several spreadsheets in the same workbook. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops and follow along with the instructor, but this is not required. Pre-registration is required; space is limited. To register, e-mail [email protected]. Admission: $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• March 7: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Westfield News Group, 62 School St., Westfield. To register, call Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• March 9: Chamber After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m. at Alternative Health, 208 College Highway, Southwick. To register, call Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• March 14: Workshop, “A Purpose-driven Website,” 8:30 a.m., at Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Presented by Bob Burch of Bright Cloud Studios. Registration is at 8:30 a.m., with networking from 9 to 10:30 a.m. Cost: free to chamber members, $30 for non-members. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• March 18: St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Westfield State University, 333 Western Ave., Westfield. To register, call Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• March 22: Small Business Legal Clinic, noon to 4 p.m., at the Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, 16 North Elm St., Westfield. Sponsored by the Western Mass. regional office of the MSBDC. The event is free, but limited to chamber members only. Seating is limited. To register, call Lynn Shedd at (413) 737-6712, ext 100.

• March 25: Legislative Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., at Tekoa Country Club. Attendees will include state Sens. Don Humason and Ben Downing, and state Reps. Nicholas Boldyga, Peter Kocot, William Pignatelli, and John Velis. Cost: $30 for chamber members, $40 for the public (paid in advance). For more information and to register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• March 16: Professional Women’s Chamber Headline Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Storrowton Tavern, Carriage House, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring literary agent and national culinary talent agent Lisa Ekus. Cost: $30 for chamber members, $40 for general admission.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• March 2: Business @ Breakfast, 7:15a.m.- 9 a.m., at Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Featuring 9/11 survivor Mike Jaffe. At the time of the attacks, Jaffe was vice president of Marketing at Marsh & McLennan Cos., an insurance and risk-management firm headquartered in the North Tower of the World Trade Center. Today, Jaffe is a well-known speaker with a story to tell of how Sept. 11, 2001 and the days leading up to and after the terrorist attacks would change his life forever, referring to it as the “Human Wakeup Call.” Sponsored by United Personnel. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• March 16: March Madness After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, 1000 Hall of Fame Ave., Springfield. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• March 22: Pastries, Politics, and Policy 2016, 8-9 a.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Featuring Attorney General Maura Healey. Cost: $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• March 2: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at V&F Auto, 443 Springfield St., Feeding Hills. Cost: free for chamber members $10 for non-members. Event is open to the public, but non-members must pay at the door. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

• March 17: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Lattitude in West Springfield. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while social networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note, we cannot invoice you for these events. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. You must be a member or guest of a member to attend.  For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff October 15, 2019

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Oct. 18: Launching Women Luncheon, Session 2, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., hosted by Courtyard by Marriott.

• Oct. 24: Legislative Breakfast, 8-10 a.m., hosted by the Inn on Boltwood.

• Oct. 30: Supplier Diversity Programs Community Day, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., hosted by the Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce.

• Nov. 5: 50th Anniversary Celebration, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Amherst Insurance Agency.

• Nov. 7: “Marijuana: Opportunities & Challenges,” 4-6 p.m., hosted by Jones Library.

• Nov. 13: Working Across Generations Workshop, 5-6:30 p.m., hosted by Look Park Garden House.

• Nov. 15: Launching Women Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., hosted by Courtyard by Marriott.

• Nov. 18: Talk on Housing and Employment, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Amherst Survival Center.

• Nov. 21: Diversity and Inclusion Workshop, 8 a.m. to noon, hosted by Hadley Farms Meeting House.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Oct. 23: Cybersecurity Chamber Breakfast, 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. Suite 3 President Dave DelVecchio will guide attendees through a security-awareness training review in three easy steps: identify the cybersecurity problem, create a security framework, and define what you as a user can do to help. This session is loaded with content and many actionable takeaways to improve the security awareness level within the attendee’s organization. Cost: $15, which includes a light breakfast. Pre-registration is required, and no tickets will be sold at the door. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.northamptonchamber.com
(413) 584-1900

• Oct. 22: “Sync Up with the Chamber and the Downtown Northampton Assoc. – A Conversation with Health, Wellness, and Beauty Businesses,” 8-9:30 a.m., 33 Hawley St., Northampton. Join us for a conversation among professionals and business owners within the health, wellness, and beauty sector. This event is part of the Greater Northampton Chamber 2019 Connect Campaign Event Series. Cost: free. RSVP at northamptonchamber.com/connect-campaign-2019.

• Oct. 22: “Social Media in the Workplace” with Daniel Carr of Royal, P.C., 8:30-9:30 a.m., hosted by Greater Northampton Chamber, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Join us for a workshop in the Greater Northampton Chamber 2019 Connect Campaign Event Series. Cost: free. RSVP at northamptonchamber.com/connect-campaign-2019.

• Oct. 24: “Marketing and Advertising: What Works and What Doesn’t?” 8-9 a.m., hosted by Greater Northampton Chamber, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Join Joe O’Rourke of Northampton Radio Group for an informative talk on what works and what doesn’t in marketing and advertising. This event is part of the Greater Northampton Chamber 2019 Connect Campaign Event Series. Cost: free. RSVP at northamptonchamber.com/connect-campaign-2019.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Oct. 17: Lunch & Learn: Hemp CBD Educational Seminar, 11:30 a.m to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Western Massachusetts Hospital, 91 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Presented by Kathleen Angco-Vieweg of Rehab Resolutions. This workshop is for everyone interested in learning basic information regarding CBD oil, the difference between hemp and marijuana, benefits of CBD oil, and what CBD oil can help with. Lunch provided by Peppermill Catering. Cost: free for members, $40 for non-members. For more information and to register, visit westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618.

• Oct. 21: After 5 Connections, 5-7 p.m., hosted by East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. The event will include a cash bar, refreshments, and a 50/50 raffle to benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for members. For more information and to register, visit westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Oct. 17: Renaissance of Springfield Leadership Forum, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Springfield Museums. Panelists will include female leaders in Springfield who will share their visions and contributions to the current Springfield renaissance. Kay Simpson, president of Springfield Museums, will moderate the panel. Cost: $35 for members, $40 for non-members. To register, e-mail [email protected].

SOUTH HADLEY & GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• Oct. 17: Business After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by TD Bank, Newton Street, South Hadley. Network with area businesses and business people. The event will include cider tastings, a cash bar, and light refreshments. Cost: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Register online at shgchamber.com.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Oct. 25: Super 60, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Cost: $60 for members, $75 general admission. To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Oct. 23: Mingle with the Mayors VIP Luncheon, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, West Springfield. Join us for an update from the mayors of Agawam and West Springfield over lunch, and mingle with the mayors afterward during this private, VIP event. Seating is limited. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff August 13, 2013

ACCGS

www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Sept. 4: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Sheraton Springfield. Charles Schewe, Ph.D., professor of Marketing at the UMass Isenberg School of Management, will present “The Millennials are Coming! Can You Hear the Flapping of Their Flip-Flops?” Some label them narcissistic, ungrateful, and entitled, while others note them as tech-savvy, family-centric and achievement-oriented. No matter the label, the Millennial, also known as Generation Y, worker is the fastest-growing segment of today’s workforce. By 2025, they will make up 75% of the world’s workforce.As businesses compete for available talent, employers cannot ignore the needs, wants, and attitudes of these young professionals, and bridging the generational gap is critical to running an effective organization.Schewe will take attendees on an entertaining journey through the generations to help organizations better understand the characteristics and values of today’s generation and how employers can adapt to successfully integrate these workers into the workforce.The ACCGS will also salute Friends of the Homeless on its 25th anniversary, welcome Kelly Services to the neighborhood as it moves into its downtown Springfield location, and introduce attendees to Audrey Szychulski, the new executive director at the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

• Sept. 9: “Federal Health Care Reform and Your Company,” 8:30-11 a.m., at the Delaney House in Holyoke. The Massachusetts Health Care Connector is offering a unique opportunity to hear from and speak with executives for key regulatory agencies on National Health Reform and its implementation in the Commonwealth. The program is presented in collaboration with the Associated Industries of Massachusetts. Reservations are complimentary but required by visiting www.aimnet.org/thesolution.

• Sept. 11: After 5 – MillFest, 5-7 p.m., at Ludlow Mills. The ACCGS is bringing back After 5 networking events bigger and better than ever with MillFest. This event will feature live music, great food, lots of fun, and, of course, networking. Sponsored by Chicopee Savings Bank with support from HealthSouth and Westmass Area Development Corp., this event is presented in collaboration with the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, an affiliate of the ACCGS. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Proceeds will benefit the ERC5 Scholarship Fund. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

• Sept. 18: Western Mass. Business Forum, 8:30 a.m.-noon, at Holyoke Community College. Businesses operating today are often overwhelmed by state and federal environmental, health, and safety requirements. It’s especially tough for small and mid-size businesses to keep up to date. Join the EPA, DEP, and other state agencies and the state’s leading business organizations for a half-day briefing where you’ll be given the tools to run your business safely and in compliance with the law — and maybe save some money in the end. Presented in collaboration with Associated Industries of Massachusetts, Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, Partners for a Healthier Community, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Reservations are $25 for the first employee per company, $15 per employee thereafter. Reservations must be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• Sept. 24: “Pastries, Politics, and Policy,” 8-9 a.m. at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For those political and policy junkies. Join us for our debut event featuring a policy expert and member of Gov. Deval Patrick’s administration for a breakfast and roundtable discussion. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Sept. 13: Amherst Area Chamber Luncheon, 12:30-2 p.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave. Amherst. Sponsored by the UMass Five College Credit Union. Celebrate the growth and impact of local agriculture and the 20th anniversary of Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA). Guest Speaker: Phillip Korman, executive director of CISA, who will discuss the economic impacts and growth of the “Local Hero” movement in the Pioneer Valley. Tickets are $15 for members and $20 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].

• Sept. 25: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., a block party at Florence Savings Bank, 385 College St., Amherst. Explore the whole group of businesses at Amherst Crossing: Amherst Pharmacy, Coldwell Banker-Upton Massamont Realtors, and Pioneer Valley Ideal Weight Loss. Enjoy tasty treats from Portabella Catering. Admission: $5 for members, $10 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Aug. 22: Part 4 of a five-seminar series: “Marketing Strategies that Lead to Growth,” 8-10:30 a.m., at the PeoplesBank Conference Room, 330 Whitney Ave. in Holyoke. Concerned about delivering your profit? Unsure how to reach your target audience? Overwhelmed with all the media options available? Smaller businesses often lack the time to execute their marketing tasks and are challenged with budgetary constraints. This workshop, presented by Mary McCarthy, is designed for businesses seeking cost-efficient and effective marketing strategies that lead to growth and seamless communication with their customers. Join us and learn:
•Branding strategies that will effectively convey your marketing messages;
•How to distinguish your marketing plan from your competition;
•Effective ways to reach your target audience and foster loyal relationships;
•How to connect with today’s tech-savvy customers through social media; and
•Networking essentials that will help you get more business.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Aug. 20: GRIST (Get Real Individual Support Today), 9 a.m., at the chamber office at 33 Union St., Easthampton. Are you a business of one? Are you a small-business owner without your own marketing department? Do you ever wish you had someone to toss around some ideas with about growing your business? The GRIST group can help. It’s a new chamber member benefit, an ongoing small group for business people who want to meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. This small group of 10 to 15 people is limited to chamber members and those interested in joining the chamber. We welcome interested guests to attend one meeting to see what the group is all about. GRIST meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 9 to 10 a.m. at the chamber office. RSVP by the Monday preceding each meeting to Fran Fahey at [email protected] or Derek Allard at [email protected] to join the group. Or, call Fahey at (413) 529-1189 or Allard at (413) 282-9957 to find out more.

• Sept. 3: GRIST (Get Real Individual Support Today), from 9 to 10 a.m., at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, an on-going small group that meets regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fran Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. The program is free to chamber members and future members.

• Sept. 9: NCYF 2nd Annual Golf Tournament, 11 a.m., at Cold Spring Country Club, 336 Chauncey Walker St., Belchertown. The tournament benefits services for children and their families at NCYF and Tri-County Schools in Easthampton. Registration at 11, shotgun scramble start at noon. Cost: $110, including golf, cart, lunch, and dinner buffet. More than $3,000 in raffle prizes. Acura and hot tub hole-in-one prizes. Contact Suzanne Welch at [email protected] or (413) 313-2820.

• Sept. 12: Networking by Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and co-sponsored by Eastworks, 116 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Co-sponsored by Riff’s Joint. Hors d’ouevres provided by Riff’s Joint. Beer and wine available. Door prizes. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for future members.

• Sept. 17: GRIST (Get Real Individual Support Today), 9-10 a.m., at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, an ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fran Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. The program is free to chamber members and future members.

HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• Sept.10: “Grow Your Business with E-mail and Social Media Marketing,” 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. Attendance is free. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

• Sept. 11: Legislative Coffee Hour, 7:45-9:15 a.m., at Sláinte, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Sponsored by Dowd Insurance, Loomis Communities, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite and Driscoll. Cost: $15 for members, $25 for non-members. Price includes a continental breakfast. Call the Chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.

• Sept. 18: Chamber Annual Clambake, 5-7:30 p.m., at Holyoke Country Club, 1 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by United Water and Pioneer Valley Railroad. The public is invited to attend. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

• Sept. 24: “The Power of E-mail Marketing,” with a bonus session, “Getting Started with Constant Contact E-mail Marketing,” 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. Attendance is free. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 525-2506

• Nov. 12: Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, at the DoubleTree in Westborough. Registration is at 9 a.m. For more information on ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, contact the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Sept. 11: Arrive@5 Monthly Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored and hosted by Baystate Health Outpatient Center, Northampton Crossing, 325 King St., Northampton. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].

• Sept. 26: Business Planning Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Northampton Chamber, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by the staff of the Franklin County Community Development Corp. This 90-minute session informs business owners about business planning, the loan process, where to get help, and how to launch a food product and use the Western MA Food Processing Center. Learn about available resources and walk out knowing your next step. Cost: free. RSVP required due to limited space. RSVP to [email protected].

NORTHAMPTON AREA YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900

• August 15: Networking Social, starting at 5 p.m., at Sláinte, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. This month we’re venturing down to Holyoke in order to host a joint networking social with the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield at Sláinte. Featured nonprofit: Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity.

• August 22: Bare Mountain Hike, 6 p.m. Join us for a Thursday-evening hike up Bare Mountain. The short but steep 0.62-mile hike will take us to the 1,014-foot summit with unobstructed views of the Pioneer Valley. Bare Mountain is home to a former Strategic Air Command bunker (featured in the movie Edge of Darkness) that is now owned by Amherst College. You will need a pair of sturdy shoes, water, and a flashlight to enjoy this hike. RSVP on Facebook so we know that you’re coming. Meeting spot: the Notch Visitor Center parking lot, 1500 West St., Amherst.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• August 19: West of the River Chamber of Commerce 10th Annual Golf Tournament, at Springfield Country Club, West Springfield. Cost: $125 per golfer. Presenting sponsor: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino of New England. For more information on registration and sponsorship opportunities, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Sept. 4: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., hosted By E.B.’s. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Event is open to the public; you must pay at the door if you’re a non-member. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Sept. 9: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Noble Hospital, 115 West Silver St., Westfield. Guest speaker: Mayor Daniel Knapik, who will speak about all that is happening around Westfield and field questions. Cost: free and open to the public. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 or e-mail [email protected].

• Sept. 11: September WestNet Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Sponsored by CityStage and Symphony Hall. An evening of networking; don’t forget your business cards. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Walk-ins are welcome. Cost: $10 for members; $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

• Sept. 13: Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m. Hosted by the 104th Fighter Wing ANG, 175 Falcon Dr., Westfield. Platinum sponsor: Westfield Bank. Gold sponsors: Berkshire Bank and United Bank. Guest speaker: Evan Dobelle, president of Westfield State University. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff June 3, 2014

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• June 4: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m. Hosted by Springfield College at the Richard Flynn Campus Union. Topic: “Inspiring a Creative Corporate Culture.” Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• June 12: ERC5 Annual Meeting, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at the Blake Dining Commons, Bay Path College, 588 Longmeadow St., Longmeadow. Reservations are $20 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• June 26: ACCGS Annual Meeting, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield. The year in retrospect, and presentation of the 2014 Richard J. Moriarty Citizen of the Year award. Reservations are $40 for members, $60 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
413-253-0700
• June 19-22: Taste of Amherst 2014. Come enjoy four days of fun at the 2014 Taste of Amherst, on the Amherst Town Common. Live entertainment will be provided by 93.9 the River, fun family events, and more than 20 local restaurants. Eat, play, dance, and celebrate all of what Amherst has to offer. Hours: Thursday, June 19, 5-9 p.m.; Friday, June 20, 5-10 p.m.; Saturday, June 21, noon-10 p.m.; Sunday, June 22, noon-4 p.m.
• June 25: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m. New Member Reception. Don’t miss this annual event, hosted by all the businesses at 25-35 University Dr.: Cheryl Nina Salon, Encharter Insurance LLC, J. F. Conlon & Associates, Sawicki Real Estate, and  Ziomek & Ziomek, Attorneys at Law. The Pub will provide food and drink. Sponsored by Greenfield Savings Bank. Tickets: Free for new members (if you joined between June 2013 and June 2014), $10 for members, and $15 for non-members.
• July 21: Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce 11th Annual Golf Tournament, 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., at Hickory Ridge Golf Course, Pomeroy Lane, Amherst. Registration and lunch are from 10:30 a.m. to noon, with a shotgun start at noon, and reception and dinner starting at 5 p.m. Cost: $125 per player. Presented by Hampshire Hospitality Group. Co-scholarship sponsor: Cooley Dickinson Health Care. Silver sponsors: Encharter Insurance, J.F. Conlon & Associates, MBA. Dinner sponsor: Fallon Community Health Plan. Lunch sponsor: Davis Financial Group, LLC. Bronze sponsors: Daily Hampshire Gazette, NEPM, Steve Lewis Subaru. Carts sponsor: Taylor Rental. Water sponsor: Atkins Farms Country Market. Towels: Hampshire College.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
• June 25: June Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Teddy Bear Pools & Spas. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
• June 4: Member workshop, “Grow Your Business with E-mail Marketing and Social Media,” 9-11 a.m., at La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Sponsored by First American Insurance Agency Inc. Free for members, this workshop is designed to give small businesses and nonprofit organizations some simple ideas for growing their customer, prospect, or member network by using e-mail and social-media marketing. We will discuss what type of content to use in your campaigns; how to get more people to stop and read your messages; how to get more action, or reaction, to your messages and offers; why using images on social-media channels creates higher engagement; and why your content should be mobile-friendly. You’ll learn what it means to run effective e-mail and/or social-media marketing campaigns and what tools you can use to measure the success of your efforts without spending lots of time or money. Participants will leave with a workbook full of ideas for timing their messages, how to write a winning subject line, what kinds of offers or content they want to try, and how best to approach their next outreach project. This is a great workshop for beginners in online marketing looking to accomplish more in less time with a small budget.
• June 26: Member workshop, “E-mail Marketing for Success: Creating Effective Newsletters & Announcements,” 9-11 a.m., at La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Sponsored by First American Insurance Agency Inc. At the heart of small-business marketing are the campaigns that drive action — collections of marketing activities that help a small business or organization achieve its goals and objectives. Newsletters and announcements have become a core component of those campaign choices. E-mail is more important than ever to the communication efforts of businesses and nonprofits everywhere, and to customers, donors, clients, and supporters of those organizations. This session will reveal some simple but effective best practices and considerations for the small-business or nonprofit seeking to make their e-mail newsletters more effective. Attendees of this presentation will learn the different types of newsletters; what to write about in your newsletter or announcement and how to consider using images; subject-line best practices and when to send your newsletter; the importance of understanding how connected e-mail and social media are, and how they have to be done together; and what types of additional tools might be useful. Join us and learn some great new strategies to help your e-mail and social-media efforts be more effective components of one of the core campaign types, newsletters and announcements.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463
• June 6: First Friday in Greenfield, 5-8 p.m. “Gotta Bee Downtown!” — a bee celebration. Live music, discounts, refreshments, art. All are welcome for free. Contact the chamber for more information at (413) 773-5464; www.franklincc.org
• June 27: Annual Meeting and Legislative Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at Terrazza Ristorante, Country Club Road, Greenfield. Elected state officials and chamber election of officers. Tickets: $13 for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Contact the chamber for more information at (413) 773-5464 or www.franklincc.org

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• June 12: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m., North Country Landscapes and Garden Center, One Main Road (Route 66), Westhampton. Sponsored by Innovative Business Systems. Door prizes, hors d’ouevres, and host beer and wine. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for future members.
• June 16: Move the Mountain Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at Holyoke Country Club, Country Club Road (off Route 5), Holyoke. Join with Greater Easthampton and Greater Holyoke chamber members as we ‘move the mountain’ to network together. Presented by the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce. Door prizes, hors d’oeuvres, and cash bar. Cost: $10 for Greater Easthampton and Holyoke chamber members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900
• June 4: Arrive@ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Black Birch Vineyard. Sponsored by Johnson & Hill Staffing Services, the Creative, and viz-bang! Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at [email protected].
• June 19: “The Art of Small Business: Pricing,” 9-10:30 a.m. Hosted and sponsored by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Special guest: Don Lesser of Pioneer Training. Lesser has been a consultant and business owner for more than 30 years. His companies have grown and shrunk and grown again, and the nature of his business has changed over the years. “The Art of Small Business” contains the insights and techniques that have contributed to his success. Highlights: Apple never discounts. Clothing stores build in a series of discounts to the initial price. Consulting companies use various techniques to avoid quoting an hourly rate. Law firms typically quote an hourly rate and stick to it. How do you determine what rate you should charge for your time? Too high, and you scare clients away; too low, and your clients undervalue your work. There is an art to setting a price for your work. What is a livable rate for your work? What is the range of rates for your work in your market? How do you price a job, and how do you cover add-ons and other changes? Do you have separate rates for different types of clients? What about donating services? How do you negotiate rates with a potential client? This workshop covers the process of determining your rate and sticking to it. Cost: $20 for members, $25 for non-members.

NORTHAMPTON AREA YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900
• June 12: Nonprofit Board Fair, 5 p.m. at the Smith College Conference Center, 51 College Lane, Northampton. Learn about, connect with, and help lead local nonprofits. Nonprofits count on volunteers like you to lead them to success. The United Way of Hampshire County and NAYP have once again partnered to host the Nonprofit Board Fair, a signature event featuring nonprofits throughout the Pioneer Valley whose leadership will be on hand to talk to interested candidates about serving on their organizations’ boards of directors. There will be a variety of organizations from large to small, representing a mix of essential services, including economic security, community building, children and education, the environment, health and disabilities, elder care, the arts, and advocacy and access. This event is ideal for younger professionals seeking this type of engagement for the first time, as well as seasoned professionals with prior board experience.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
• June 11: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Westfield Bank, 462 College Highway, Southwick. Sponsored by Pro Tours & Cruises of Southwick. Great connection opportunities. Complimentary refreshments provided. Walk-ins are welcome. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members (cash at the door). To register. call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.
• June 12: Chamber’s Spring Marketing Speaker Series 2, 8:30-11 a.m., at the Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Topic: “E-mail Marketing for Success: Creating Effective Newsletters & Announcements.” Speaker: Liz Provo, authorized local expert for Constant Contact. Cost: free to chamber members, $25 for non-members. For more information, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• June 20: June Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Ranch Golf Club, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. Sponsors: platinum, First Niagara; gold, United Bank; silver, United Way of Pioneer Valley. Speaker: Superintendent of Schools Dr. Suzanne Scallion. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. Consider donating a raffle prize. To register, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.
• June 25: Chamber’s Spring Marketing Speaker Series 3, 8:30-11 a.m., at the Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Topic: “You’re Social. Now What? Is It Working?” Speaker: Liz Provo, authorized local expert for Constant Contact. Cost: Free to chamber members, $25 for non-members. For more information, call Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• June 27: Local Legislative Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. The luncheon is for the chamber communities of Blandford, Chester, Granville, Huntington, Montgomery, Russell, Southwick, Tolland, Westfield, and Woronoco. The state legislators for each community have been invited to speak. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Cost: TBA. For more information, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310
• June 3: PWC Woman of the Year, 5:30 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Honoring Carol Campbell, president, CEO, and founder of Chicopee Industrial Contractors. Reservations cost $55. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• June 10: PWC Ladies Night Member Reception, 5-7 p.m., at Fathers & Sons, 989 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Enjoy complimentary wine and refreshments. Reservations are free. To register, e-mail Dawn Creighton at [email protected].

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880
• June 11: Wicked Wednesday, 3-6 p.m., at Six Flags New England. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information or for tickets, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• June 19: Annual Breakfast Meeting, 7-9 a.m., at Chez Josef, Agawam. Sponsored by OMG and Development Associates. The event will kick off with the welcoming of new chairman John Weiss and the incoming WRC board of directors. Cost: $25 for chamber members, $30 for non-members. For more information and for tickets, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• August 18: Annual Golf Tournament, at the Ranch Golf Course, Southwick. Registration is at 11:30 a.m., with lunch at noon and a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Cost: $125 for golf and dinner. For more information or for tickets, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff June 18, 2013

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• June 26: ACCGS Annual Meeting, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sheraton Springfield, 1 Monarch Place, Springfield. Featuring James Brett, president and CEO of the New England Council, New England’s voice of business on Capitol Hill. Remarks by Michael Mathis, vice president of Global Gaming Development, MGM Resorts International. Announcement of the Richard J. Moriarty Citizen of the Year. Cost: $40 for members, $60 general admission. Tickets are available at www.myonlinechamber.com or by e-mailing Cecile Larose at [email protected].

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
413-253-0700
• July 15: Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce 10th Annual Golf Tournament, 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Hickory Ridge Golf Course, Pomeroy Lane, Amherst. Presented by Hampshire Hospitality Group. Registration and Lunch 10:30 a.m. to noon; shotgun start at 12 noon; reception and dinner at 5 p.m. Cost: $125 per player.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
• June 20: Seminar Series, 8-10:30 a.m. This series of five workshops will focus on five diverse, unrelated topics that are relevant for the success of the chamber’s business members. The topics will be “Organizations Stop Growing When Their Leadership Stops Growing,” June 20; “No Guts, No Gain,” July 11; “Employment Law Compliance,” Aug. 1; “Marketing Strategies That Lead to Growth,” Aug. 22; and “QuickBooks,” Sept. 19. The topics were chosen from the most frequently mentioned challenges that small businesses face. Cost: $100 for members, $125 for non-members.
• June 26: June Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., Munich Haus, 13 Center St., Chicopee. Sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. Cost: $5 for members, $15 for non-members.
• July 11: See the Seminar Series listing above.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463
• June 21: 94th Annual Meeting and Legislative Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., Eaglebrook School, Deerfield. Guest Speakers: State Reps. Stanley Rosenberg, Stephen Brewer, and Ben Downing, and state Reps. Stephen Kulik, Denise Andrews, and Paul Mark. Cost: $12 for chamber members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• July 26: The 29th Annual Golf Tournament, 9 a.m., Southampton Country Club. Team fee: $400. Tee sponsorships available for $75-$125. Would you like to donate a raffle prize and/or something to the golfer’s gift bag? Contact the chamber to sign up a team, arrange a tee sponsor, or make a raffle prize or gift donation.

HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
• June 19: Chamber Business Connections, 5-7 p.m., the Holyoke Green High Performance Computing Center, 100 Bigelow St., Holyoke. Sponsored By Northeast IT Systems Inc. and Westfield Bank. Join your friends and colleagues for this informal evening of networking. If you are in the IT/computer equipment, software, or sales industry, please attend as the chamber’s guest. Cost: $10 for chamber members, $15 for the public.
• June 20: Ask a Chamber Expert Series: “Blueprint Reading,” 8:30-10 a.m., Chamber of Commerce Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. This is the third event in the Ask a Chamber Expert series. Cost: $10 for members, $25 for the public. Price includes a continental breakfast. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up, or register online at holyokechamber.com.
• June 26: Summer Recognition Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., Yankee Pedlar, 1866 Northampton St., Holyoke. Cost: $20 for members, $25 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up, or register online at holyokechamber.com.

MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
massachusettschamberofcommerce.com
(413) 525-2506
• June 26: “Manufacturing Matters” Lunch Meeting, Storrowton Tavern, West Springfield. Cost: $30 for members, $40 for non-members. For more information on ticket sales, contact the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].
• July 22: Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, Tekoa Country Club, Westfield. Shotgun start: 11 a.m. Cost: $100 per golfer. For more information on registration and sponsorship opportunities, contact the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].

NORTHAMPTON AREA YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900
• July 10: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310
• June 18: Free networking event, 5-7 p.m., Cooper’s Gifts, 161 Main St., Agawam. Join us for an after-hours event, where you can relax and enjoy the company of other area businesswomen. No cost. Register to win a $100 Cooper’s gift card. Refreshments will be served.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880
• June 20: West of the River Chamber of Commerce Annual Breakfast Meeting, 7-9 a.m., Chez Josef, Agawam. Presenting sponsor: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino of New England. Featured speaker: Mark Darren Gregor, business and career coach. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on registration and sponsorship opportunities, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Aug. 19: West of the River Chamber of Commerce 10th Annual Golf Tournament, Springfield Country Club, West Springfield. Presenting sponsor: Hard Rock Hotel and Casino of New England. Cost: $125 per golfer. For more information on registration and sponsorship opportunities, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.springfieldyps.com
• June 27: Fifth Annual YPS Great Golf Escape, Oak Ridge Golf Club, Feeding Hills. Cost: $90 per golfer ($360 for a foursome), which includes greens fees, cart, barbecue lunch (big beef burgers; jumbo hot dogs; sausage, peppers, and onions; and pasta salad), and a buffet dinner. There will be prizes for the winning team, raffle prizes, and giveaways. For more information, visit www.springfieldyps.com.
• July 18: July Third Thursday, 5-7 p.m., Sheraton Springfield, 1 Monarch Place, Springfield. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members.

From a Distance …

By BusinessWest Staff September 18, 2006

Cover Story

Online Courses Increase Enrollment and Visibility for Local Colleges

September 18, 2006 Cover

Online courses began as static Web sites and E-mail between students and faculty, but now they’re dynamic, comprehensive, and increasingly popular. As a result, they’re changing the way students learn and the way colleges teach.

At Holyoke Community College, students have the option of taking a number of courses online, from management to meteorological science.

Dr. Colin Cavell teaches U.S. National Government online for HCC, a popular class that has only one hitch: sometimes, his students have to keep the time difference in mind when E-mailing him with a question, at his home office in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Cavell’s class is a textbook example of the flexibility afforded by online learning.

Online courses, now more commonly referred to as ‘distance learning’ or distance education, are an increasingly prevalent aspect of the American system of higher education. Most students enrolled at traditional four-year and community colleges will take an online course during their college career, or at least take a course that includes online components, such as presentations, study guides, or quizzes.

Distance learning presents many opportunities for students — they take courses at colleges across the country or around the world — and challenges for educators, who are adopting to a new way to teach traditional and non-traditional subjects.

Those closely involved with the evolution of distance learning at colleges and universities say that it’s not likely online courses will ever fully replace traditional classroom settings completely. But they don’t take the numbers of students using online classes to manage, augment, or complete their educations lightly, either.

Brick and Click

Gloria Defillipo, Dean of Distance Education at Holyoke Community College, said about 50% of the college’s total enrollment take advantage of some online component each semester, and that’s not including students in traditional classes who take advantage of so-called ‘Web enhancements.’

“We can’t possibly measure how many classroom courses also use online aspects to enhance the course – that’s too widespread,” she said. “But students can earn their degrees entirely online, or take part in ‘brick and click,’ hybrid courses that have online and classroom components. The numbers of those students is definitely increasing, and there is a big future for distance learning.”

HCC, which introduced its first distance education-based courses in 1999 (“they were basically notes posted online and links to Web sites,” said Defillipo), now offers five degrees and five certificates that can be obtained solely online, as well as 19 degrees that can be earned through a track that is 80% virtual.

Defillipo added that the majority of students enrolled in those courses of study live close to the college, and use distance education to study in a way that meets their learning style better than a classroom environment, or to help juggle an already busy work or family schedule. Some, however, utilize HCC’s online education system from beyond the Pioneer Valley. Students living in different parts of the state, including the Berkshires, Cape Cod, and Boston’s South Shore are currently enrolled, while others continued their education at HCC after a move – one HCC student is earning college credit while on military duty in Iraq.

“It definitely gets our name out there in a way we never could before,” said Defillipo. “But one of the biggest positives about distance learning is that education can continue even after life has moved you.”

Quiet as a Mouse

That could be one reason, she added, for the continued growth of distance learning, as well as the acceptance thereof in the world of higher education. Once relegated to correspondence courses and online schools such as the University of Phoenix, distance learning is now a very real, and very large, part of the American college system. Harvard University, for instance, created its extension school nearly a century ago, to offer continuing education courses for both credit and enrichment; its distance education division is now one of the school’s largest offerings. That shift has some real backing, nationally, too – the United States Distance Learning Association in Boston currently includes 27 state chapters and a number of for-profit sponsors who contribute up to $30,000 each annually to the cause.

Locally, every college has some type of online presence in terms of course offerings. In addition to HCC’s expansive set of programs, American International College, for instance, introduced a blended master’s degree program for its nursing students that takes place largely online.

And UMass is leading the country as well as the area in the field of distance learning. UMassOnline, its distance learning division, saw a 32% increase in program revenue during the 2005-2006 academic year, bringing in $22.9 million, and enrollment increased by 23%.

David Gray, UMassOnline CEO, said he attributes some of that growth to program expansion – 28 new programs were launched this past academic year alone.
“We continue to see impressive growth in online enrollment,” said Gray, “largely due to the quality and diversity of our academic programming. Our faculty and staff are committed to fostering an innovative and rich learning environment.”

Gray explained that the new programs created were a response to consumer demand and a need to fill niche markets. Two graduate-level counseling programs were added, for instance, as well as a masters program in Gerontology, a bachelor of arts completion program, a behavioral intervention in autism certificate program, a forensic criminology certificate program, and a plastics engineering certificate program.

“We are particularly pleased that plastics engineering is now available entirely online,” he said. “The program is one of a kind in the United States; offering it online enables us to serve a niche market, but with a global reach.”

On the Homepage

But distance learning is not just a tool to reach markets far from the bricks and mortar of a college campus. Debbie Bellucci, Dean of the School of Continuing Education and Distance Learning at Springfield Technical Community College, said while the majority of students who take advantage of online offerings at STCC are local, she too sees firsthand the vast growth in the field of distance learning, and the challenges that creates for colleges of all sizes.

“In 1999, we started with three courses, that were mainly lecture notes on a static site,” said Bellucci. “Interaction occurred outside of the course via E-mail.”

But now, STCC offers several courses with a Web component, including a liberal arts degree that can be achieved entirely online. That has created a major focus at STCC to constantly improve the online courses, but also the delivery and accessibility thereof. And that, Bellucci said, must be done within the same framework and set of standards applied to traditional courses.

The prime differences between online offerings at traditional institutions and most universities and schools that function entirely in a virtual environment, said Bellucci, are that colleges like STCC are accredited, often employ existing faculty to administer distance learning courses, and usually offer the course both online and in a classroom, to meet the needs of various students.

“Here, online courses also run a full, regular semester,” she added. “That means the program cannot be as self-paced as some online courses that can be taken outside of traditional academe. Students can complete their work anywhere, anytime within a given week, but after that there are certain parameters. When Saturday comes, that homework, or discussion board post, or quiz has to be posted.”

In addition, Bellucci said many colleges are now being called upon to draft specific policies for their distance learning programs, in order to address issues that may arise as well as further improve the online learning experience.

Discussion boards, for instance, provide an important tool for effective distance learning – they mimic classroom discussions, and consequently student comprehension levels, better than e-mails between student and instructor. But while they provide for multi-faceted conversations, Bellucci said, those conversations are taking place among a faceless audience and a class of students that often haven’t met each other, or their professor.

“The aim with discussion boards is to get students to comment with the instructor serving as a moderator,” she explained. “Instructors can allow students to exchange ideas, while also stopping tracks of discussion that are off-topic and correct misconceptions.

“But sometimes, that can lead to discussion boards becoming complaint boards, or debates get too heated or off-course,” she noted, adding that the problem prompted STCC to instate a ‘civility policy’ for distance education students.

Quizzes and final exams also pose a challenge for online faculty, who must essentially assume that any test administered online is an open-book test.

“Typically, that means instructors have to be more creative about how they set up the exams,” said Bellucci, explaining that true or false questions are given less frequently, while essays and short-answer questions better test a student’s overall comprehension.

Live and Learn

And communication between faculty and students is always encouraged, added Defillipo, who said distance learning allows for equal treatment for all students, whether they are studying in Holyoke or Iraq, or learning from a professor also in the Middle East.

“Learning doesn’t have to stop anymore when things change,” she repeated. “It can just keep going, wherever life takes you.”

Jaclyn Stevenson can be reached at[email protected]

With Campuses Quiet, College Leaders Ponder the Future

By Joseph Bednar April 27, 2020

Coronavirus Cover Story

Hard Lessons

‘Extraordinary.’ That’s how one area college president described the massive shift to online learning that colleges and universities nationwide were forced to undertake back in March. And he’s right. But these are extraordinary times — and beyond the questions about when students can safety return to campus, and concerns about declining enrollment and revenues going forward, are a series of equally extraordinary conversations about what higher education might look like on the other side of the COVID-19 crisis, and why.

Back in March, when colleges and universities everywhere began sending students home, the obvious question was, ‘when will they come back?’

That’s still the question — or, more accurately, one of many, many pressing questions.

Here’s another one: when students do eventually come back, how many will not? At a time when enrollment is already declining nationally, mainly due to smaller high-school graduating classes, some trade groups, like the American Council on Education, are predicting a national enrollment drop of 15% this fall, higher for international students.

“On one hand, it could be anxiety about students returning to the campus environment or students wanting to take a pause and see how things are going,” said Harry Dumay president of Elms College. “Then, their financial circumstances might make it difficult for them — although, with the stimulus funds, we are working with families to help them with those concerns.”

Dumay said Elms leaders are preparing for all contingencies when it comes to how and where summer and fall classes will be delivered, though it seems likely that at least the initial summer sessions, starting in May, will have to be remote.

“Every one of us is looking at potential loss in revenue. Obviously, if the parents lost jobs, or if students lost jobs, will they be able to afford to go back?”

“What’s less certain is what will happen in the fall. A number of factors go into making this decision, beginning, of course, with when it’s safe for our students, safe for our employees and faculty, and safe for the general public,” he noted, adding that Elms leadership constantly tracks the guidelines it receives from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and will not reopen the campus if doing so would provide an opportunity for the pandemic to spike, even if the curve is starting to flatten now.

Working in Elms’ favor, he noted, is the fact that it draws mainly from the Greater Springfield region, and in this current environment, graduating high-school seniors, whether in 2020 or 2021, and their families might prefer to choose a college closer to home.

“Those are discussions seniors and their parents are making around the kitchen table,” Dumay said. “We are certainly working with all of those students who have been admitted to Elms, trying to answer their questions so they can continue to pursue their dreams in a safe manner, and guide them in making those critical decisions in this critical time.”

From its perspective, Elms — and all colleges, for that matter — is making contingency plans of its own if enrollment does come in lower than the target.

“We’ll have a plan-A budget, a plan-B budget, and a plan-C budget. But Elms is on solid financial footing. We’re not wealthy — we don’t have a large endowment — but the institution is financially healthy, and we can withstand some shock in enrollment.”

Carol Leary, who is stepping down in June after 25 years as president of Bay Path University, certainly didn’t expect to spend her final weeks communicating with her staff remotely.

“Every one of us is looking at potential loss in revenue,” Leary said of … well, virtually all colleges and universities. “Obviously, if the parents lost jobs, or if students lost jobs, will they be able to afford to go back?”

With that in mind, she said, “everyone is doing their business-continuity planning and deciding what to do if there’s a decrease in enrollment for the fall. It’s on the table for most institutions, and certainly, at Bay Path, we’re talking about it. But we’re very well-placed in some ways; we usually use 4% or less of our endowment on operating costs. Obviously, when enrollment goes down, it will hit schools harder that rely more heavily on their endowment for the operating budget. I’m not sure that’s going to be an issue here.”

That said, Bay Path may freeze hiring and not fill open positions that aren’t absolutely essential, Leary said, while curtailing travel in the short term as well. “Every institution is looking at how the budget is crafted and may have to make some tough decisions — maybe even some furloughs and layoffs in the future.”

At the same time, she added, most institutions will have to start looking at themselves through a different lens — a topic she recently wrote about in an article marking 25 years in the president’s chair. Specifically, how can higher education, with its ever-spiraling costs, better reach and serve the majority of Americans, including those in lower income strata?

“I think the model and the cost are definitely areas that will change in the future, and the COVID crisis has forced all of us to look internally at how to begin to address those two issues,” she said.

With that, she raised perhaps the most intriguing question of all — how will higher education look when it emerges on the other side of the pandemic, and students do return to campus? Because most in this critical industry — and all four area presidents BusinessWest spoke with for this story — don’t believe it’s going to be status quo.

Digital Dilemma

Before considering those questions, John Cook took a moment to appreciate what a momentous challenge it has been for an entire nation’s higher-education system to go online with very little preparation.

John Cook says STCC is modeling fall enrollment forecasts and developing budget options that consider all contingencies.

“It’s been extraordinary for higher education, and certainly at STCC, to make such a comprehensive change,” said Cook, president of Springfield Technical Community College. He explained that the college, like most others in Western Mass., was fortunate to be able to leverage spring break to transition to distance learning.

Christina Royal, president of Holyoke Community College (HCC), said it was a challenge to help 4,500 students, many of whom had never experienced online learning, to become familiar with all the technology, software, and scheduling. At the same time, many students were losing their jobs — for example, in restaurants and hospitality — and exacerbating issues of food and housing insecurity among lower-income students.

“That creates a lot of extra stress with students — ‘I’m losing my job and trying to figure out how to take classes online.’ We’ve had to spend a lot of time helping students through that,” she said, adding that HCC has hooked students up with Chromebooks and other equipment as needed. “I’ve done several town-hall meetings with faculty and staff, and meetings with students, to answer their questions and validate their feelings and acknowledge the uncertainty they’re feeling.”

Dumay was similarly thankful for the spring-break cushion that gave professors extra time to adapt their courses to the online environment.

“That creates a lot of extra stress with students — ‘I’m losing my job and trying to figure out how to take classes online.’ We’ve had to spend a lot of time helping students through that.”

“The faculty were amazing, and they turned it around,” he said. “The courses are being delivered in different ways — some are using live Zoom sessions, some are using asynchronous Zoom sessions, and some used narrated PowerPoint delivery that students can access on their own time.”

Elms recently reached out to all students to poll them on how classes were going, and 30% responded, Dumay said. Of those, the vast majority said they had what they needed to continue their learning online, while about 2.5% reported difficulty with Internet access. In response, Elms is keeping its library open for that reason — with social-distancing measures in place, of course.

“More than 86% feel confident being successful in the online environment; some students said this is a lot more work,” Dumay said, conceding that in-person learning is preferable in most cases, and for myriad reasons. “Elms is a lot more than being academically successful. Part of the value proposition for Elms College is its small, very intimate environment that emphasizes growth of the whole person — the spiritual component, the psychosocial component.”

Trying to replicate that online is difficult, Dumay said, but the college is doing what it can to build an online community where students can connect with each other and access the campus resources they need.

Perhaps no institution in the region was more prepared for the online transition than Bay Path, which has been offering its graduate programs almost entirely online since 2006, and its undergraduate American Women’s College is totally online as well. Leary feels like that’s a path forward to help all students afford an education.

“There will always be people who can afford institutions like Harvard and Princeton and Yale, but the majority of Americans can’t afford that type of education,” she said. “That’s why we’ve created a very low-cost model in the American Women’s College, putting together a well-crafted curriculum and a model that supports students, so very few will fall through the cracks.”

For now, she added, the percentage of classes that will continue online is up in the air.

“Most of us are thinking that summer school will be online, and then then we start looking at the fall. Even if social distancing is lifted, we don’t know what the impact on the college will be — on the residence halls, the classrooms, the dining rooms. As we look to the fall, we’ll be prepared to open, and we’ll also be prepared to go online. We have to be nimble.”

Profit and Loss

Leaders of the 15 community colleges in Massachusetts have kept in touch about when they might open campuses up, and even then, under what kind of social-distancing parameters, Royal said. As for summer programs, HCC’s first session has already been moved fully online, but because a handful of second-session classes will be more difficult to deliver remotely, that decision is in limbo — not to mention what will happen in the fall.

Christina Royal says many students are dealing with not just a shift to online classes, but job loss and food and housing insecurity.

“It’s hard to say definitively what the situation will be in September or October,” she told BusinessWest. “What I’m trying to do is position us so that, whatever the situation, we can pivot on very short notice, and respond even faster than we did this time around, because all the parameters are in place to do so.”

Cook said STCC is currently modeling enrollment projections and working with trustees on a budget that takes into consideration a possible enrollment hit. He noted, however, that community colleges in Massachusetts tend to do well during economic downturns.

Royal noted that trend as well. “We run counter-cyclical to the economy. When the economy starts to go down, people start thinking, ‘what do I need to retool myself, and how can I prepare for a career change?’ — and our enrollment goes up.”

She noted the trend becomes noticeable about 12 months after a recession begins, and, indeed, 2010 — the height of the Great Recession, which began in late 2008 — was HCC’s most recent enrollment peak; as the economy has improved, enrollment has steadily declined.

The question, both she and Cook said, is whether the same rules apply in the current environment, which is not a slow-building recession, but a full-stop economic shutdown that could, in turn, lead to an extended economic lull.

“When you think of recessions we’ve had in the past, we built toward them, but this is so sudden, with high numbers of people filing for unemployment,” Royal said. “It’s very unexpected, and we’re not sure how it’s going to play out.”

One wild card in the mix is what she called the “emotional recovery” from what’s happening now. “People have been jarred to their core; they’re concerned about their own safety and concerned about engaging in the world.”

That said, HCC was already planning for a 5% enrollment reduction this fall — largely due to demographic trends — but is now thinking in terms of 10%. “We have to plan for that contingency, and we have to deliver a balanced budget to the trustees. So that’s what we’re looking at.”

“When you think of recessions we’ve had in the past, we built toward them, but this is so sudden, with high numbers of people filing for unemployment. It’s very unexpected, and we’re not sure how it’s going to play out.”

If enrollment does decline by 15% nationally, that represents a $23 billion revenue loss for colleges — money that will be only partly offset by government relief funds. For example, more than 80 colleges and universities in Massachusetts will collectively receive more than $270 million as part of a federal relief package intended to help schools and students during the pandemic. UMass Amherst tops that list with an estimated $18.3 million in aid. Nationally, the Higher Education Relief Fund allocated $12.5 billion to 5,125 colleges and universities.

Collectively, the 15 community colleges in Massachusetts will receive $48.8 million in aid — certainly a help, but not enough to ease enrollment concerns going forward. Cook agreed with Royal that community colleges shouldn’t assume the sort of enrollment bump they usually see during recessions, even though they offer a more affordable model than private, residential colleges.

“This isn’t like any economic downturn the nation has ever experienced in the past, even the Great Recession,” he said. “Because of the public-health impact on people’s lives, it’s hard to assume enrollment will be up in the near future. People are dealing with so much else in their lives, they’re not able to turn their attention to education and workforce development.”

Future Shock

If there’s a positive lesson from the pandemic to bring into the future, Royal said, it’s the massive potential of technology to streamline education and make it more affordable and accessible.

“What’s happening now isn’t online learning; it’s emergency remote learning. I don’t want people to think that someone having to pivot and put together course materials with one or two weeks notice to deliver for the second half of the semester is the bar of online learning,” said Royal, who has a Ph.D. in instructional design and spent years heading up distance learning for a large community college in Ohio.

“I think of the potential for more innovative learning designs, highly interactive simulation labs augmented in virtual reality — those are more sophisticated than what we see in online courses now,” she added. “I believe the promise of online learning will be realized someday, but that’s going to require more inclusion and investment and professional development to really expose our educators to the possibilities.”

Some good can come out of every crisis, Leary said, citing in particular the rise of telemedicine, which will likely get a permanent boost from the COVID-19 crisis, as well as companies learning the value of remote work, lower emissions generating cleaner air in cities right now, and, yes, a greater focus on how to not only teach students remotely, but do it better.

Another takeaway, Royal said, might be a new focus on process improvement that extends well beyond remote learning. “If something takes six steps but we’ve learned how to do it in three, why are we going back to six? So, when we open our doors again, we’ll be looking at how we can streamline processes — and how to offer more virtual services in general.”

She’s not speaking about classes here; rather, it’s the routine business of paying bills, getting forms signed, and other administrative functions. “They might want to do that remotely, at 8 in the evening, at their computer, while they’re thinking about it. So, I see a lot of room for process improvement and streamlining student services overall.”

STCC is also learning it can offer value through streamlining its admissions, enrollment, and financial-aid operations online, “to make it more seamless for our students to work through the experience of getting into college and staying with the college,” Cook said — even while continuing to promote the face-to-face value of its campus advising center.

Meanwhile, through the online transition, “we’ve learned that we can move pretty quickly,” Cook said. “Sometimes higher education gets painted as slow to respond, slow to adapt, but we’ve demonstrated that we can move quickly and with a degree of grace when we need to.”

Dumay said lessons learned from the COVID-19 shutdown might change college life in America in ways both good and bad. On the positive side, while online learning can’t replicate the important interpersonal development built by campus life, going online has demonstrated there is a bigger place than college leaders might have imagined for remote programs.

“This will alleviate a lot of the fears people have about the efficacy of online learning. They’ll realize they can do it where it works, so we can have a lot more learning in the online environment,” he said. “But that doesn’t mean education will move completely online. The residential experience is a rite of passage for the growth of a lot of American youth. It would be a loss if we didn’t return to that at some point in the future.”

More worrisome, Dumay said, is the potential this crisis has to shut down many schools completely.

“It may be that some don’t make it and close their doors,” he said, noting that the most vulnerable colleges include many that serve lower-income, first-generation students, often students of color. “If higher education became less accessible, that would be an unfortunate casualty of this pandemic.”

Grade: Incomplete

The presidents who spoke with BusinessWest had a lot to say — much, much more than could fit in this story — but, while their comments were insightful, they were in many cases less than definitive. After all, it’s hard to speak definitively about a pandemic — and an economic shutdown — that offer no sure timeline.

“Within our student body and our employees, people are really hoping for clarity — that’s the element in short supply right now,” Cook said. “As we continue to work with these health guidelines, as we flatten the curve and pay attention to social distancing, when and how will that allow us to get back to some version of where our value lies — leveraging on-campus resources like labs and simulation?

“No one knows when we’ll get back to leveraging those resources,” he added, “but there’s still a lot of hope around that — and worry, because those are incredible resources for our students.”

In short, it’s impossible to deliver all the value a college offers over a computer screen, from miles away. In the meantime, everyone is learning valuable lessons — which is, after all, the point of higher education.

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff June 12, 2018

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

• June 13: Good News Business Salute, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Hotel on North, 297 North St., Pittsfield. Join us to celebrate the following salutes: Excelsior Integrated, Buxton School, Mildred Elley, and the Brien Center. The presentation will begin at 4:45 p.m., and cocktail hour will start at 5:30 p.m. Guests are invited to enjoy Hotel on North for dinner afterward.

• June 20: Chamber Nite with Booking.com, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Hilton Garden Inn Pittsfield Lenox, 1032 South St., Pittsfield.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• June 14-17: Taste of Amherst on the Amherst Town Common. Showcase your restaurant or business with more than 20,000 attendees throughout the weekend. Booth space is limited, so reserve your space soon. All vendors must be open for all four days and all hours of operation, rain or shine. For more information about this event, call the chamber office at (413) 253-0700 or e-mail [email protected].

• June 22: New Member Reception to welcome, celebrate, and showcase our new members, 5 p.m. Venue to be announced.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• June 14: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Crumpin-Fox Club, 87 Parmenter Road, Bernardston. Networking event with refreshments and cash bar. Register at franklincc.org or [email protected].

• June 22: Annual Meeting, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Eaglebrook School, Deerfield. This will be the last breakfast until September. Local state legislators have been invited, and chamber officers will be elected. Sponsored by Greenfield Cooperative Bank, Greenfield Recorder, Greenfield Savings Bank, Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Assoc., and Yankee Candle Village. Cost: $13 for members, $16 for non-members. Register by June 16 at franklincc.org or [email protected].

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• June 14: CEO Luncheon, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the Collegian Court, 89 Park St., Chicopee. A quarterly luncheon series where CEOs tell of how they rose to their positions. May’s luncheon will feature Dr. Harry Dumay of Elms College. Series sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• June 16: Run the Runway 5k, 9:30 a.m. Race starts at Westover Metropolitan Airport, 255 Padgette St., Chicopee. Presented by the Greater Chicopee Chamber, GCC, and WMA. Spectators welcome (behind the fence only).

• June 20: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Elms College Campus Center. Air Show theme. Chief Greeter: Connie Brown, Galaxy Council. Keynote: Col. Bull Durham, 439th Airlift Wing. Sponsored by United Personnel, Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, Gaudreau Group, Spherion Staffing Services, and PeoplesBank. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• June 14: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Fort Hill Brewery, 30 Fort Hill Road, Easthampton. Sponsored by Oxbow Ski Show Team and Tandem Bagel. Food and door prizes will be available. Pre-registration is suggested. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• June 27: Speaker Breakfast 2018, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted and sponsored by Williston Northampton School, 19 Payson Ave., Easthampton. Keynote speaker Kate Harrington, Human Resource manager for Smith College, will speak on “Hiring the Right Fit.” She will help attendees understand how to develop a diverse applicant pool, know what questions to ask, and recognize what questions to avoid. She will also point out what to look for in a great employee and how to watch for bias. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. Pre-registration is suggested. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• June 21: Workshop: “Microsoft Word: Advanced Tips, Tricks & Shortcuts,” 9-11 a.m., hosted by Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. This workshop will go beyond the basics and explore some of Word’s more advanced features. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required at goo.gl/forms/pX8YUuC25YdMsLjD2.

• July 11: July Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• June 13: June After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Westfield Bank, 462 College Highway, Southwick. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit our chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for members, $10/ for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door). Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org. For sponsorships or more information, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• June 21: Summer Sizzler Kick-Off, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by the Ranch, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. This event, featuring networking, oversized outdoor games, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and cocktails, is great for making connections and team building while having fun. Sponsors include Mestek Inc. (platinum event sponsor) and Berkshire Bank (gold sponsor). For sponsorships or reservations, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618 or visit www.westfieldbiz.org.

• July 12: 41st Pancake Breakfast, 7-11 a.m., hosted by South Middle School, 30 West Silver St., Westfield. Rain or shine. Attractions include a bounce house, face painting, entertainment, a live broadcast from WSKB 89.5, and vendor tables. Sponsors to date include BusinessWest (pancake sponsor), Appalachian Press (placemat sponsor), Puffer Printing (ticket sponsor), and Dunkin’ Donuts (coffee sponsor). Cost: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for kids under 10. For additional sponsorships or tickets, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618 or visit www.westfieldbiz.org.

SOUTH HADLEY & GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• June 12: After 5 at Ameriprise, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Ameriprise building, 551 Newton St., South Hadley. Come meet Steve Duval and the rest of the Ameriprise team, who are new members this year to the chamber family. Mix and mingle with other South Hadley & Granby Chamber members, spread the word about your business, and hear about theirs. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at www.shgchamber.com (click on the link in the event description) or e-mail [email protected].

• June 20: BBQ Bash Membership Drive, 5-7:30 p.m., hosted by Brunelle’s Marina, 1 Alvord St., South Hadley. Invite your friends who are not yet members of the chamber so they can get to know us. It will be an evening of food, lawn games, conversation, door prizes, and a 50/50 raffle as an extra incentive. Bring your business cards to enter the door-prize drawing. Sponsors to date include Westfield Bank (presenting sponsor) and Florence Savings Bank, M. Connie Laplante ERA Real Estate, and SHELD (participating sponsors). Register by June 15 at www.shgchamber.com (click on the link in the event description) or e-mail [email protected]. Be sure to let us know how many will be coming with you.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• June 19: Lunch ‘n Learn: Business Succession Planning, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., presented by Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, hosted by Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. The event will discuss the various stages of a business that should trigger succession-planning conversations, as well as discussion of three options for transferring the business: sale to an independent third party, transfer to family members, or sale to employees. Cost: $30 for members ($35 at the door), $35 general admission ($45 at the door). Reservations may be made at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, [email protected], or (413) 755-1310.

• July 19: Golf Tournament, 11 a.m., hosted by Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Reservations may be made at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, [email protected], or (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• June 12: Annual Meeting and Business Grant Drawing, 7 a.m. The event will kick off with the welcoming of new co-chairmen Frank Palange and Ryan McLane and the incoming WRC board of directors. Two $500 business grants will be drawn the morning of the event. Guest speaker Michael Harrison from TALKERS will address guests. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members. Sponsorships and program advertising are available. For more information or for tickets, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
springfieldyps.com

• June 28: Tenth annual Great Golf Escape, hosted by the Ranch, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. Visit springfieldyps.com for registration information.

Diabetes Can Affect Vision in Myriad, Often Serious Ways

By Joseph Bednar December 25, 2018

Health Care

The Eyes Have It

Dr. Camille Guzek-Latka shows a patient an image of her eye and any signs of disease that might be present.

When people think of diabetes, they might think of complications like cardiac disease, but they may not consider what elevated blood-sugar levels can do to their eyes over time. In truth, regular vision exams are a must for diabetics, who are at higher risk of certain conditions, including diabetic retinopathy, that can seriously damage one’s vision. Like diabetes itself, the key to minimizing the risk is often simply diligent lifestyle management.

It’s no secret that diabetes is a growing problem in the U.S., with more than 30 million Americans suffering from this condition that affects blood-sugar levels and leads to a host of complications, from heart disease and stroke to kidney disease, foot ulcers, and eye damage.

It’s that last one that often catches people off guard, said Dr. David Momnie of Chicopee Eyecare.

“A few red flags do go up when we examine patients with diabetes,” he said, explaining that a diabetic eye exam always includes a careful examination of the retina through a dilated pupil, looking for a condition known as diabetic retinopathy (more on that later).

“We also carefully examine the iris for tiny vessels that don’t belong there. We call this condition neovascularization. And we also also look for changes in the lens of the eye, called cataract, and for signs of glaucoma, as both of these conditions occur more frequently in people with diabetes.”

According to the American Diabetes Assoc., about one-fourth of people with diabetes are undiagnosed, which is problematic on many levels, one of which is that diabetics need to have their eyes checked more often — at least once a year — than the general population.

“What’s alarming to us is seeing more young adults and people in their 20s and 30s with type 2 diabetes. The culprit is invariably weight. It’s a global phenomenon as people are spending more time indoors and less time being physically active.”

And, as noted, it’s a condition that’s becoming more prevalent. In Massachusetts alone, diabetes incidence has risen from 3.9% of all residents 25 years ago to about 9% today.

The day BusinessWest visited Chicopee Eyecare early in the afternoon, Dr. Camille Guzek-Latka said she had already seen four patients that day with diabetes — unsurprising because, as a practice that has been around for decades, many patients are older.

“People are living longer, so it’s not surprising to see more people in their 70s, 80s and even 90s diagnosed with diabetes,” Momnie said. “But what’s alarming to us is seeing more young adults and people in their 20s and 30s with type 2 diabetes. The culprit is invariably weight. It’s a global phenomenon as people are spending more time indoors and less time being physically active.”

Yet, not all overweight people develop diabetes, he added, so there are obviously other factors involved — in some cases, there are genetic reasons why the beta cells of the pancreas stop producing enough insulin.

Dr. David Momnie says a key part of seeing diabetic patients is educating them about lifestyle factors that go into their eye health.

“Since the likelihood of developing complications of diabetes like cardiovascular, kidney, and eye problems increase over time,” he added, “young people developing diabetes are more likely to have these problems down the road.”

But with early detection, Guzek-Latka said, patients have a good chance of holding off many of the complications, including eye damage, because they can get a head start on controlling their blood sugar with medications and lifestyle changes.

“We tend to spend a little more time with our diabetic patients,” Momnie added, “because we need to have a frank discussion about lifestyle changes like weight control, a well-balanced diet, and quitting smoking.”

I Can’t See Clearly Now

When diabetes does cause eye damage, it’s often in the form of a disease called diabetic retinopathy, which is caused when too much sugar circulating in the blood damages the tiny retinal blood vessels in the retina, which is like the film of a camera.

“Elevated glucose levels cause damage to blood vessels. The most vulnerable vessels, the ones that show the earliest damage, are the smallest ones that lie farthest from the heart, such as those that supply the fingers, toes, kidneys, and eyes,” said Dr. Andrew Lam, an ophthalmologist at New England Retina Consultants, as well as an attending surgeon at Baystate Medical Center.

Diabetic retinopathy, he explained, is the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20 to 74. “Treating this condition can be one of the most fulfilling, and frustrating, conditions that a retinal specialist encounters.”

“Elevated glucose levels cause damage to blood vessels. The most vulnerable vessels, the ones that show the earliest damage, are the smallest ones that lie farthest from the heart, such as those that supply the fingers, toes, kidneys, and eyes.”

The two most common eye problems that result from diabetic retinopathy are vitreous hemorrhage and macular edema. Vitreous hemorrhage, or bleeding in the eye, typically results from the formation of neovascular blood vessels in the retina.

“The growth of these vessels is actually the eye’s natural response to the lack of normal blood supply in diabetic eyes, but they are bad because they are apt to leak and bleed,” Lam said, noting that doctors can try to stop the proliferation of neovascular vessels with a laser treatment, and sometimes with injections of a medicine called Avastin.

“But when major bleeding in the eye does occur, it can severely affect a patient’s vision — sometimes taking away almost all the vision,” he went on. “The good news is that our techniques performing vitrectomy surgery to remove the blood are very good, and some of our most grateful patients are those whose vision has been restored after a vitreous hemorrhage has been cleared.”

Diabetic macular edema can be a more frustrating condition to treat, Lam said. This occurs from leaking blood vessels causing swelling in the macula of the eye, the part of the retina responsible for detailed central vision. This in turn causes vision loss and distortion.

Dr. Andrew Lam says diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in adults aged 20 to 74 — and it’s increasing in prevalence.

“If we can reduce or eliminate the edema, the patient’s vision often improves, but this is sometimes hard to do,” he explained, noting that weapons in the battle can include eye injections with medicines such as Avastin, Eylea, or steroids, or even laser treatments.

“But the problem is that these treatments don’t always work that well, or for very long,” he went on. “Some patients respond quickly and do well, but others have persistent macular edema and blurry vision, even after repeated treatments.”

Guzek-Latka noted that 7.7 million people in the U.S. had diabetic retinopathy in 2010, a number projected to double to 14.6 million by 2050. Because diabetic retinopathy is progressive and does not cause symptoms until vision loss occurs, she stressed that annual exams are recommended, with more frequent follow-ups if retinopathy is detected. Her practice sends reports on ocular health to the patient’s primary-care physician and schedules appointments with a retinal specialist, like Lam, when necessary.

“One of our problems is that we cannot cure the underlying disease: diabetes,” Lam said. “Still, we fight diabetic retinopathy as diligently and as well as we can. I tell my patients to consider this a life-long battle that requires constant vigilance and sometimes many treatments over time. They must also strive to maintain the best blood-sugar control they can.”

Indeed, he noted, diabetic retinopathy can be managed — and sometimes vision loss can be regained — with treatments, but there is no cure because there is no cure for diabetes itself.

“Early detection, monitoring, and treatment of diabetic retinopathy certainly improve the chance that a patient will enjoy good vision throughout their lifetime,” he continued. “It is important that all diabetics have at least an annual eye exam to detect early signs of retinopathy before it becomes vision-threatening.”

Momnie and his team often use a digital retinal camera to take a picture of any diabetic retinopathy that they find, especially if it’s progressing — and not just because it’s beneficial to them in diagnosing and treating it.

“We also want to get the patient involved in managing their diabetes,” he said. “Seeing the actual damage to their retina is often an incentive to better manage their blood sugars.”

Guzek-Latka agreed. “I find it helpful to show people these pictures because, if you show a person a picture of what’s going on for them, it’s like night and day. It’s a powerful tool not only to document what they’ve got, but to educate them.”

Another instrument for tracking people with diabetic retinopathy is an OCT, which stands for optical coherence tomography, which is a scan that produces a cross-section image of the retina, so they can tell if there is any macular edema. “Any time a diabetic patient has reduced vision, we need to rule out diabetic macular edema, and the OCT gives us that information.”

Early Detection Is Key

Lam said there are many other possible manifestations of diabetes in the eye, including cataracts, neovascular glaucoma, tractional retinal detachment, and optic nerve swelling. These are treated in various ways, sometimes surgically. As the only retina practice in Western Mass., he noted, New England Retina Consultants sees many patients with diabetic retinopathy every day.

SEE: List of Eye Specialists

Momnie stressed that diabetic eye conditions don’t always present with dramatic symptoms at first. “There are some potentially blinding eye conditions that can develop in people with diabetes without symptoms like blurred vision. And yet, these conditions are treatable if caught early enough.”

Tight blood-glucose control is the key to significantly reducing the incidence and severity of diabetic eye disease, he went on, adding that people with diabetes should discuss with their primary-care physician how to keep their levels in an acceptable range.

Like diabetes itself, some people are at increased risk for developing diabetic eye disease, including women with diabetes who are pregnant, people who have had diabetes for a long time, and cigarette smokers those who simply don’t have their blood sugars under control. African-Americans and Hispanics are also at a greater risk of developing diabetic retinopathy.

Eye appointments for diabetic patients can run slightly over the expected time, Momnie told BusinessWest, but it’s not the exam itself that takes longer. “It’s the time we spend talking to the patient at the end of the exam. We want to discuss prevention with lifestyle changes and the importance of knowing certain numbers like their hemoglobin A1C.”

The A1C is a three-month average of a diabetic’s blood sugar; a reading between 5.7 and 6.4 typically indicates prediabetes, and higher indicates diabetes. “We don’t like to see it above 7.0,” Momnie said. “Generally, the lower the A1C, the better.”

As part of lifestyle changes, Momnie discusses with patients what is known as the glycemic index of carbohydrates, which ranks carb-laden foods by how quickly they break down into simple sugars in the body. Carbohydrates with a lower glycemic index, like oatmeal and whole-wheat pasta, take longer to break down, and are better than foods like potatoes and bread, which have a higher glycemic index. It’s all part of a series of decisions diabetics need to make, he said, to keep their numbers down and complications — like eye damage — at bay.

“Early detection, optimal glucose control, appropriate follow-up care, and timely treatment of diabetic eye disease are key to guarding against loss of vision,” Guzek-Latka said, adding that, occasionally, she will look at someone’s eyes and detect diabetic retinopathy, and then begin asking about other symptoms, and it turns out the patient wasn’t aware they were diabetic. Once they know, however, they can do something about it.

“If you know, you have so much control over what you can do,” she said. “But there are so many people that don’t know they have it that are walking around. If we can catch some of those and steer them in the right direction, that’s a big deal for that individual.”

Joseph Bednar can be reached at [email protected]

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff April 5, 2016

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700

• April 7: Amherst Area Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Courtyard by Marriott, 423 Russell St., Hadley. Guest speakers include Ginny Hamilton, a pain specialist, yoga instructor, and Reiki practitioner with a multi-faceted approach teaching people how to release pain, realize habits causing pain, and revitalize healthy habits for painless living; and Brandon Wawrzonek, a Strides Human Performance Institute coach specializing in holistic fitness, functional movement training, sport performance, and injury prevention for athletes of all ages and abilities. Whether your concern is workplace productivity, athletic performance, or personal comfort, pain prevention strategies are a worthwhile investment. Cost: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m.

• April 13: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., Hillside Pizza, 173 Russell St., Hadley. Beer tasting provided by White Lion Brewing Co., the first craft brewery in Springfield. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

EAST OF THE RIVER FIVE TOWN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.erc5.com

(413) 575-7230

• April 14: Lunch & Learn, noon to 1:30 p.m., Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Co-hosted with West of the River Chamber of Commerce. This educational event will teach you how taking advantage of solar energy might save your business money and how to take advantage of available tax credits and incentives. Cost: $35 for both members and non-members. Cost includes buffet lunch.

• April 19: Feast in the East, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. Come sample dishes from area restaurants and have a chance to vote for the People’s Choice award. There will be ample time to mingle and network in a relaxed atmosphere. Silver spoon sponsor: the Republican. Restaurant sponsors: CMD Technology Group Inc., Freedom Credit Union, the Gaudreau Group, Glenmeadow Retirement Community, JGS Lifecare, Life Care Center of Wilbraham, NUVO, and Robert Charles Photography. Cost: $25 per person.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• April 20: April Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members.

• April 21: Mornings with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., Polish National Credit Union, 46 Main St., Chicopee. Free for all chamber members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• April 29: Legislative Luncheon, noon, Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. The Greater Easthampton and Holyoke chambers are partnering once again on this event; stay tuned for details. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 534-3376

• April 12: Table Top Expo 2016: Let’s Get Down to Business, 4:30-7 p.m., Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. With four area chambers, 180 businesses, and hundreds of visitors, sponsoring the Table Top Expo has consistently been a premier networking and marketing tool for the region’s business community. Another sell-out event is expected. Exhibitor tables are $150 and are exclusive to chamber members. To register or for more information, e-mail [email protected].

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• April 7: Northampton Chamber Monthly Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m., Yankee Candle Village, South Deerfield. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Sponsors: Greenfield Community College Foundation, Freedom Credit Union, and Pioneer Saab Volvo. Cost: $10 for members.

• April 22: Workshop: “Waste Reduction & Energy Efficiency,” 9:30-11 a.m., Center for EcoTechnology, 320 Riverside Dr., Northampton. Waste reduction and energy-efficiency upgrades can save your business money. This workshop will cover incentives, benefits, and options to green your business. Learn from case studies of other local businesses that have started waste-diversion programs or installed energy-efficiency improvements. RSVP required, and space is limited. To register, contact Cate Foley at [email protected] or (413) 586-7350, ext. 240.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.professionalwomenschamber.com

(413) 568-1618

• April 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Event is free and open to the public. To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• April 13: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., Betts Plumbing & Heating Supply, 14 Coleman Ave., Westfield. Refreshments will be served. Bring a business card and make connections. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members (cash). To register, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• April 18: “The Painkiller Epidemic: Legal Implications of Prescription Drug Use in the Workplace,” 8:30-10 a.m., Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Prescription drug use in the workplace is on the rise. From an employer’s perspective, employees who are abusing prescription medication tend to be less productive, less reliable, prone to absenteeism, a greater safety risk, and create unnecessary costs, burdens, and liabilities to the company. Royal, P.C. will present an informational seminar that will address some of the most common areas employers express uncertainty and concern about, including maintaining a safe workplace, enforcing drug-free workplace policies and conducting drug testing, and the risk of disability-discrimination claims. Light refreshments will be served. Cost: free for chamber members, $30 for non-members.

• April 26: Sixth annual Southwick Home & Business Show, 4:30-7 p.m., Southwick Town Hall, 454 College Highway. The Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce is once again partnering with the Southwick Economic Development Commission on this tabletop event to promote Southwick businesses. Cost to display: $25 per business (Southwick businesses only). Registration form and payment due by April 11. The event is free and open to the public. Questions can be e-mailed to [email protected], or leave a message at (413) 304-6100.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

(413) 755-1310

• April 12: Professional Women’s Chamber Ladies Night, 5-7 p.m., Added Attractions, 180 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow. An evening of networking, complimentary wine, and refreshments. Reservations are free but required by e-mailing Debra Chamberland at [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• April 6: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Featuring the ever-popular Mayor’s Forum with Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, Easthampton Mayor Karen Cadieux, and West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt. A personal and humorous discussion moderated by Western Mass News anchor Dave Madsen. Sponsored by United Personnel and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 13: Speed Networking @ Lunch, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., La Quinta Inns and Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Make up to 50 contacts in an hour in this round-robin networking format. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 14: Springfield Regional Chamber Leadership Institute Graduation, 6-9 p.m., Sheraton Springfield, One Monarch Place, Springfield. Cost: $40 per person. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• April 27: Beacon Hill Summit, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Massachusetts State House. Co-hosted by state Sen. James Welch and state Rep. Angelo Puppolo Jr. Day-long opportunity to meet with members of the Baker-Polito administration and the Massachusetts delegation. Sponsored by Comcast and WWLP-TV 22, presented in partnership with the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce, and supported by the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce. Cost: $180 per person, which includes continental breakfast, transportation, lunch, reception, and all materials. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• April 6: Wicked Wednesday networking event, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Stitches & Ink/From the Red Tees, 128 Myron St., West Springfield. Register online at www.ourwrc.com.

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff July 12, 2016

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

• July 18: 13th annual Golf Tournament at Hickory Ridge Golf Course, Pomeroy Lane, Amherst. Schedule: 10 a.m.: full-swing pro clinic; 10:30: registration, putting contest, light lunch; noon: shotgun start, scramble format; 5 p.m.: social hour, cash bar;  6 p.m.: dinner, awards ceremony, live auction. Cost: $135 per player; $540 per foursome. Hole-in-one, longest drive, closest-to-the-pin contests.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• July 14: Networking By Night, 5-7 p.m., at the Oxbow Marina Sports Center, Old Springfield Road, Northampton. Cost: $10 for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Register online at easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 572-9414.

• July 29: 32nd annual Golf Tournament, 9 a.m. shotgun start, at Southampton Country Club, 329 College Highway. Cost: $125 per person, includes cart, gift, lunch, dinner. Register online at business.easthamptonchamber.org/events/details/32-annual-golf-tournament-july-2016-195 or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

• August 13: 2nd annual Beach Ball, 5-10 p.m. Dance and dine under the stars at chamber’s annual Beach Ball, where a beach party and gala collide. Barbecue feasting by Outlook Farm, music by DJ Jay Pacluiga, full cash bar by Meyers Catering, bonfire on the beach, performance by the Oxbow waterski show team. Register online at business.easthamptonchamber.org/events/details/2nd-annual-easthampton-chamber-beach-ball-august-2016-196, or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

• July 13: Chamber Coffee Buzz Morning Networking, 7:30-8:30 a.m., at Ruwac Inc., 54 Winter St., Holyoke. Jump-start the day with this opportunity to meet business and community leaders while enjoying coffee and a light breakfast at this world leader in industrial vacuum systems. If your schedule demands morning meetings or if you’re interested in maximizing your exposure, the Coffee Buzz is for you. This event is free to members of the business community and is sponsored by Lyon & Fitzpatrick, LLP.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

• July 13: July Arrive @ 5 with NAYP, 5-7 p.m., at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Sponsors: Brain Analysis & Neurodevelopment Center, Highview of Northampton, and the Healing ZONE Therapeutic Massage. Cost: $10 for members.

• July 14: Google Workshop: “Set Goals with Google Analytics,” 9-11 a.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by SCORE. No cost. What is Google Analytics? A free powerful analytics tool provides reports showing how visitors found your website and what they did when they got there. Measure the effectiveness of your online and offline marketing campaigns. To register, visit [email protected].

• July 21: Google Workshop: “Build Your Free Website with Google,” 9-11 a.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by SCORE. Learn how to create, customize, and publish your site, get a free domain name or use one you already own, and access and edit your site anytime. No cost, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, visit [email protected].

• Sept. 7: September Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Spoleto Restaurant. Sponsors: Webber & Grinnell Insurance, Applied Mortgage, BusinessWest, and Lia Honda. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• July 14: Pancake Breakfast, 7-11a.m., at South Middle School, Westfield. Cost: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $3 for children under 12. Vendor tables available: $75 for members, $100 for non-members. You must bring your own table and chairs. For more information, to volunteer, or reserve a table top and/or sponsorship, call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• July 18: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Papps Bar & Grill, 110 Airport Road, Westfield. Network with the chamber this summer. Scholarship fund raffle: win an aerial, scenic view of Westfield. Cost: $5 for chamber members, $10 general admission. Includes refreshments and cash bar.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

• July 28: Chamber Golf Tournament at the Ranch Golf Club, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. Schedule: 11 a.m. to noon: registration/courseside lunch; 12:30 p.m.: shotgun start; dinner immediately following. Sponsored by MassMutual Center, VHB, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, Florence Bank, and Chicopee Savings Bank. Cost: $600 per foursome, $160 per individual golfer. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• August 15: Annual Golf Tournament at the Ranch Golf Club, Southwick. Schedule: 11:30 a.m. registration; noon: lunch; 1 p.m.: shotgun start/scramble format. Cost: $125 for golf and dinner. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information or for tickets to this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

• Sept. 14: Multi-chamber Night of Networking, 5-7 p.m., at Cal’s Wood Fired Grill, Riverdale St., West Springfield. Cost: $10. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information or for tickets to this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Sept. 22: Business Breakfast with Howie Carr, 7-9 a.m., Chez Josef, Agawam. Cost: $35 for chamber members, $40 for non-members. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff September 3, 2018

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Sept. 6: CEO Luncheon, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Collegian Court, 89 Park St., Chicopee. A quarterly luncheon series where CEOs tell of how they rose to their positions. September’s luncheon will feature Jim Goodwin of CHD. Series sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• Sept. 13: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Red Fez, 70 Exchange St., Chicopee. Series presented by Polish National Credit Union Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• Sept. 19: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Tru By Hilton, 440 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Chief greeter: Tony Cignoli. Keynote speaker: state Rep. Joseph Wagner. Series sponsored by United Personnel, Westfield Bank, Holyoke Medical Center, Polish National Credit Union, Gaudreau Group, Spherion Staffing Services, PeoplesBank, and Interstate Towing Inc. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• Sept. 28: Chamber Seminar: “Authenticity in Leadership,” 9-11 a.m., hosted by Residence Inn, 500 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Presenter: Lora Wondolowski of Leadership Pioneer Valley. Presented by Westfield Bank. Cost: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Sept. 13: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds. Sponsored by Tunnel 7 and Fran’s Fine Editing. Food and door prizes will be available, as well as a cash bar. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Pre-registration is suggested. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Sept. 23: Breakfast, 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. The Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce joins with other area chambers to provide information concerning the nursing ballot initiative. There will be a continental breakfast and networking beginning at 7:30 a.m., folllowed by a panel discussion beginning at 8 a.m. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Sept. 28: Women & the Art of Risk, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., hosted by the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. A women’s leadership event featuring workshops, discussions, and career-development opportunities, all led by distinguished women from the Pioneer Valley. Hear personal and professional stories of how taking calculated risks led these women to new adventures and made them stronger leaders. The keynote speaker is Dr. Valerie Young, an internationally recognized expert on impostor syndrome. Cost: $119, or $875 for a table of 10. Pre-registration is a must. For more information, a schedule of the day’s events, and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Sept. 12: Coffee with a Cop, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Fiesta Café, 305 Main St., Holyoke. The Chamber of Commerce invites Holyoke’s new chief of Police, Manny Febo, to join us for a meet and greet over coffee and light refreshments in the heart of downtown Holyoke. The event is free of charge.

• Sept. 19: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Gateway City Arts, 92 Race St., Holyoke. Join us for our first After Hours of this fiscal season. The team down at Gateway City Arts is excited to host this networking event in its Biergarten and Bistro. Cost: free to members who register in advance, $10 at the door and for non-members.

• Sept. 21: Now in its 30th season, the chamber and Holyoke Community College present Leadership Holyoke, to be held over a series of eight days. Faculty members from HCC will participate as instructors and facilitators, and community leaders will participate as speakers and discussion leaders. Cost: $600 for all eight sessions. Sign up at holyokechamber.com.

• Sept. 28: Women and the Art of Risk, hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. A women’s leadership event, in conjunction with the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, featuring workshops, discussions, and career-development opportunities, all led by distinguished woman from the Pioneer Valley. Hear personal and professional stories of how taking calculated risks led these women to new adventures and made them stronger leaders. Sign up at easthamptonchamber.org.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Sept. 13: September Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., a networking event hosted by Family Legacy Partners, Round Hill Road, Northampton. Sponsored by Coldwell Banker Upton-Massamont. Cost: $10 for members.

Oct. 2: October Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., a networking event and chamber open house hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by Pioneer Training. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Sept. 10: September Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Governor’s Center, 66 Broad St., Westfield. Free and open to the public. To register, visit our website at www.westfieldbiz.org/events or call (413) 568-1618 so we can give our host a proper head count.

• Sept. 12: September After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Stanley Park, 400 Western Ave., Westfield. Media sponsor: BusinessWest. Member Spotlights are Ideal Health & Body and Pro & Local Detailing. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber’s scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door) Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events. For sponsorships or registration questions, e-mail [email protected] or call (413) 568-1618. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org/events.

• Sept. 20: Workshop: “Cybersecurity for Cloud-based Solutions: Emphasis on Endpoints in the Data Center,” 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., hosted by Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Presented by Norhals Group LLC, Carbon Black, and VMWare’s Cloud Force Security. Continental breakfast and lunch will be served. Cost: $45. For sponsorships or registration questions, e-mail [email protected] or call (413) 568-1618. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org/events.

• Sept. 21: September Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by 104th Fighter Wing ANG, 175 Falcon Dr., Westfield. Platinum event sponsor: Baystate Noble Hospital; gold sponsors: Savage Arms, United Bank, and Westfield Gas & Electric; silver sponsor: A Plus HVAC Inc; bronze sponsors: Armbrook Village, Governor’s Center, Micro Abrasives Corp., and Rehab Resolutions. Join us to hear from keynote speaker Tim Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. Immediately following breakfast, we will take the 2019-20 directory centerfold photo, and those who have the time can take a tour of the base. Cost: $25 for members, $40 for non-members. For sponsorships or registration questions, e-mail [email protected] or call (413) 568-1618. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org/events.

• Sept. 28: Workshop: “Social Media in the Workplace,” 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Presented by attorney Timothy Netkovick of Royal, P.C. Cost: free for members; $3 for non-members (paid in advance). For sponsorships or registration questions, e-mail [email protected] or call (413) 568-1618. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org/events.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• Sept. 28: Monthly Breakfast Series, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Franklin County Technical High School, 82 Industrial Blvd., Turners Falls. Full breakfast will be served during the program, which will feature the kickoff of the United Way of Franklin County’s fundraising campaign. Register at franklincc.org or e-mail [email protected].

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Sept. 13: Professional Women’s Chamber Season Kickoff Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the Munich Haus, 13 Center St., Chicopee. Sponsors: BusinessWest and HCN. Lisa Mullins, host of WBUR’s All Things Considered, will headline the luncheon. Cost: $35 for members, $40 for non-members, $99 for luncheon season pass. Registration will be available soon on the PWC website at www.professionalwomenschamber.com.

SOUTH HADLEY & GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• Sept. 13: Lunch & Learn: “Marketing Your Small Business,” noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Yarde Tavern, 3 Hadley St., South Hadley. Ryan Mahoney, an account manager at Hibu, will facilitate this discussion about how best to promote your business with the resources you have, whether you are a one-person business or someone who works at a much larger company. We will order individually off the Yarde Tavern menu at noon, and plan to start the discussion about 12:15 p.m. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. To register, visit www.shgchamber.com and go to this event on the calendar.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Sept. 18: September Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Join us as we listen to an informative panel discussion with our elected officials. State senators, state representatives, and local mayors will update guests on all things politics. The presenting sponsor is Horizon Services; premier sponsors include the Insurance Center of New England, Health New England, Polish National Credit Union, and Republic Services; and preferred sponsors include Reliable Temps, Spherion Staffing, Westfield Bank, and Partners Restaurant & Catering. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

YPS OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
springfieldyps.com

• Sept. 13: Vote the Valley: The New Springfield, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mahogany Room at Symphony Hall, 34 Court St., Springfield. Join us for an in-depth update from Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno on the current state of Springfield. We will highlight the advances and opportunities for young professionals in the area and those who work with them. For sponsorship and partnership opportunities, e-mail Ashley at [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff May 5, 2015

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• May 6: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Speed networking — a fast-paced way to work the room. Sponsored by United Personnel. Reservations are $20 for members (in advance, $25 members at the door), $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online by visiting www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 13: ACCGS After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Residence Inn by Marriott, 500 Memorial Ave., Chicopee. Join us for our last After 5 of the season for a tailgate party, featuring food trucks with tailgating cuisine, parking-lot games like cornhole and ladder toss, music, and cash bar. Reservations are $5 for members, $10 for general admission. Reservations may be made online by visiting www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 14: East of the River Five Town Chamber Feast in the East, 5-7:30 p.m., at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. Enjoy culinary tastings from local restaurants and caterers to benefit the ERC5 Scholarship Fund. Reservations are $25. Reservations may be made online by visiting www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 19: Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year, 5:30 p.m., at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Honoring Anne Paradis, chief executive officer, Microtek Inc. Reservations are $55 and may be may be made online by visiting www.myonlinechamber.com.
• May 26: ACCGS Pastries, Politics & Policy, 8-9 a.m., at TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For political and policy junkies. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 general admission, and includes continental breakfast. Reservations may be made online by visiting www.myonlinechamber.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• May 6: After 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Bridgeside Grille, 9 Amherst Road, Sunderland. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call the chamber office at (413) 253-0700. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
• May 27: After 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Florence Savings Bank, 377 Russell St., Hadley. Sponsored solely by Florence Saving Bank. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call the office at (413) 253-0700. Tickets are $10 members, $15 for non-members.
• June 18-21: Taste of Amherst, on the Amherst Common. Featuring 22 individual restaurants on the common for a weekend of fun, food tasting, food demos, live music, kids’ area, zoo, and much more. Hours: June 18-19, 5-9 p.m.; June 20, noon-10 p.m.; June 21, noon-4 p.m. All food is under $5 per item. No entry fee.
• June 23: After 5, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at J.F. Conlon , 29 University Dr., Amherst. Sponsored in part by J.F.Conlon & Associates. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call the chamber office at (413) 253-0700. Tickets: $10 per member, $15 per non- member.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• May 15: Lunch & Learn, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m., at the Hampton Inn, 600 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. “ACA Compliance: Employer Requirements and Management Tools.” Learn about a solid, user-friendly road map for understanding compliance issues. Tickets: $15 for members, $23 for non-members.
• May 20: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Renaissance Manor on Cabot, 279 Cabot St., Holyoke. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.
• May 21: Golf Tournament at Chicopee Country Club; 10 a.m. shotgun start. Registration: $125 per golfer.
• May 27: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Elms College. Tickets: $23 for members, $28 for non-members.
• June 13: 5K Road Race/2-mile Walk. Begins and ends at Portuguese Club, 149 Exchange St., Chicopee. Registration: $25 per person; $15 for children 12 and under. Registration begins at 7:45 a.m. Fee includes T-shirt and free lunch provided by the Munich Haus.
• June 18: Mornings with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., at the Willimansett Center West, 546 Chicopee St., Chicopee. Free for chamber members.
• June 24: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Wireless Zone, 601E Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• May 11: Monday Morning with the Mayor. “Getting Down to Business About Business: Casual Conversation with Mayor Cadieux,” 8-9 a.m., at Easthampton Savings Bank, 36 Main St., Easthampton. Free and open to the public.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• May 15: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored and hosted by Pic’s Place, 910 Hampden St., Holyoke. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
• May 18: Annual Chamber Cup Golf Tournament celebrating the chamber’s 125th anniversary, at Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Registration and lunch at 10:30 a.m.; tee off at noon (scramble format); dinner following game with food stations catered by the Log Cabin. Cost: $125 includes lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart, and dinner. Dinner only: $25. Awards, raffles, and cash prizes follow dinner. Sponsors: Log Cabin and PeoplesBank. Corporate sponsors: Dowd Insurance, Goss & McLain Insurance Agency, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Mountain View Landscapes, Holyoke Medical Center, People’s United Bank, the Republican, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite & Driscoll. For reservations, call (413) 534-3376 or register at holyokechamber.com.
• May 21: Chamber Business Connections, 5-7 p.m., in the Atrium in the PeoplesBank building, 330 Whitney Ave. Sponsored and hosted by PeoplesBank. Join your friends and colleagues for this fun and casual evening of networking. Refreshments, door prizes, and 50/50 raffle. Cost: $19 for chamber members, $15 for non-members.
• June 19: 125th Anniversary Gala Ball, starting at 6 p.m., at the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Cocktails at 6, dinner at 7. Enjoy an elegant meal and dance to the music of the Floyd Patterson Band. Join Marcotte Ford as one of the major event sponsors by calling (413) 534-3376. Event is open to the public. More details to follow.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• May 6: May Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored by Whalen Insurance Agency. For more information or to register, call the chamber at (413) 584-1900.
• July 1: July Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored by Pioneer Landscapes and Easthampton Electrical. For more information or to register, call the chamber at (413) 584-1900.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• May 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Renaissance Manor, 37 Feeding Hills Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly coffee hour with Westfield Mayor Dan Knapik. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event.
• May 13: May After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Sponsored by Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity and the ReStore. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members; cash at the door. To register, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.
• May 18: 54th Annual Golf Tournament, at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Schedule: 10 a.m., registration and lunch; 11 a.m., shotgun start; 4 p.m., cocktail hour; 5 p.m., dinner. Title sponsor: Westfield Gas & Electric. Premium gift sponsor: Westfield Bank. Cart sponsor: Doctor’s Express.
• June 1: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Westfield Vocational Technical High School, 33 Smith Ave., Westfield. Free and open to the public. Register by calling (413) 568-1618.
• June 19: Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Ranch Golf Club, 65 Sunnyside Road, Southwick. Platinum sponsor: Mestek. Golf sponsor: Berkshire Bank. Silver sponsors: First Niagara and Prolamina. Registered attendees of the chamber breakfast can golf at a discounted rate of only $65 at the Ranch following the breakfast. Call Bill Rosenblum, golf pro, to register at (413) 569-9333, ext. 3. Cost for the breakfast: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on sponsorships, to register, or to donate a raffle prize, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• May 19: Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year, 5:30 p.m., at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Honoring Anne Paradis, CEO of Microtek Inc. Sponsored by BusinessWest. Reservations are $55 and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• May 6: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Northeast IT, 777 Riverdale Road, West Springfield. Free for chamber members, $10 at the door for non-members. Event is open to the public. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• May 20: Networking Lunch, noon-1:30 p.m., at the Lower Pioneer Valley Educational Collaborative, 174 Brush Hill Ave., West Springfield. Must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch served while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. Cost: $10 at the door, which includes lunch. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff January 22, 2019

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

• Feb. 26: 1Berkshire Entrepreneurial Meetup. Looking to start up a business? Grow your network? Meet others with similar business interests? 1Berkshire is a countywide organization with an innovative approach to economic development. Get to know fellow entrepreneurs and business owners, rub elbows with local leaders, and share success stories at the monthly free Entrepreneurial Meetups. Free of charge. Register at www.meetup.com/1berkshire-alliance.

• Feb. 28: 1Berkshire February Chamber Nite, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Barrington Stage Co. Wolfson Center, 122 North St., Pittsfield. Join us for the February Chamber Nite in partnership with Downtown Pittsfield Inc. Members of either organization get in for free. Stick around after the event for discounted tickets to the 10×10 play festival. Register at www.1berkshire.com.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• Feb. 7: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Greenfield Savings Bank, 400 Main St., Greenfield. Come meet the chamber’s new executive director, Diana Szynal, at a wine and chocolate pre-Valentine’s Day networking event sponsored by Greenfield Savings Bank. Register at franklincc.org or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 22: Monthly Breakfast Series, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Greenfield Community College Cohn Family Dining Commons, One College Drive, Greenfield. Full breakfast will be served during the program, which will feature a panel on the ways businesses and secondary schools can benefit from each other and help the community. Sponsored by Franklin Hampshire Workforce Board. Register at franklincc.org or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Jan. 30: Annual HR Update, 8:30-10:30 a.m., hosted by Hampton Inn, Memorial Drive, Chicopee. Join this presentation with attorney John Gannon of Skoler, Abbott & Presser, P.C., one of the leading labor and employment law firms serving employers in New England, for a discussion aimed to prepare you to enter the New Year with a better understanding of state and federal laws employers need to be aware of in 2019. Series sponsored by Westfield Bank. For more information, visit chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• Feb. 7: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Elms College, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. Sponsored by Polish National Credit Union. An evening of fun, networking, and an opportunity to meet potential employees. Free hors d’oeuvres and cash bar available. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events.

• Feb. 12: Educational Seminar on Employee Development, 7:30-9:30 a.m., hosted by Elms College, College Center FDR Room, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. Sponsored by Elms College MBA Department. An educational seminar on proper planning and maintenance of your employees’ development. Includes a continental breakfast. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

• Feb. 22: Lights On Arts & Culture, 5-8 p.m., hosted by select downtown Chicopee businesses. Explore local art, meet the people, visit the places, and learn about the events that help to shape our city’s culture. Sponsored by the Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, the Chicopee Cultural Council, and TDI Partner. Cost is free, but donations are welcome. Check out more information online at chicopeechamber.org/events or call (413) 594-2101.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Jan. 31: Celebrate Success, 5-8 p.m., hosted by Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds. Sponsored by Polish National Credit Union, Finck & Perras, and Taylor Real Estate. The event honors milestone achievers, salutes annual award recipients, and gives a preview of where the chamber will head in 2019. Cost: $40 per person, which includes dinner. Pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Feb. 19: In the Know, 5-7 p.m., hosted by New City Brewery, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. The first in a series of three panel discussions exploring the challenges and frustrations shared by business owners. Panelists will include Elizabeth Paquette from Rock Valley Tool, Mark Zatyrka from INSA, and Nate Costa from the Springfield Thunderbirds. There will be time for networking and noshing after the panel concludes. Cost: $15 for members, $30 for non-members. Pre-registration is required. For more information and to register, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Jan. 24: Legislative Leaders Reception, 5 p.m., hosted by Marcotte Ford, 1025 Main St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Marcotte Ford, bankESB, the Dowd Agencies, Holyoke Community College, Holyoke Medical Center, and the Republican. Build connections and network among the Greater Holyoke business community as well as local and state legislators. Featuring keynote speakers Timothy Brennan, executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission, and Denis Luzuriaga, managing partner at the Cubit. Hearty hors d’oeuvres and open bar. Cost: $40.

• Feb. 20: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Gary Rome Hyundai, 150 Whiting Farms Road, Holyoke. Get connected and help your business grow. Meet the Gary Rome team, Jack and Gary, as welcome guests during one of their busiest seasons. Light bites, cash bar, door prizes, and 50/50 raffle. Cost: $10 for members, $25 for non-members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Feb. 4: February Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. The event is free and open to the public. Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events or call the chamber at (413) 568-1618 to register so we can give our host a head count.

• Feb. 11: February After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Pair A Dice Clean, LLC, 31 St. Jacques Ave., Agawam. Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: free for members, $15 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door). Sign up online at www.westfieldbiz.org/events. For sponsorships or more information, call the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

SOUTH HADLEY & GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• Feb. 7: Business After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Yarde Tavern, 3 Hadley St., South Hadley. Refreshments will be served, and connections will be made. Bring your business cards to share and to enter a raffle to win a prize. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register by e-mailing Kim Prough at [email protected].

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 6: Winning the War for Talent, 7:15 a.m.-9 a.m., hosted by the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. Presented by Mark Emrick of the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast. Sponsored by United Personnel and the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast. Cost: $25 for members ($30 at the door), $35 for non-members ($40 at the door). To register, visit www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mail [email protected], or call (413) 755-1310.

• Feb. 28: Leadership Institute, hosted by TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Presented in partnership with Western New England University College of Business with support from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation. The deadline to apply is Feb. 14. E-mail [email protected] for an application.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Feb. 6: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., hosted by MacMillan Group, 265 Main St., Agawam. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information about this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or register at www.ourwrc.com.

• Feb. 28: Mayoral Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Crestview Country Club, Agawam. Join us as we listen to an informative discussion with our mayors, who will update the guests on all that is going on in our towns individually and collaboratively. For sponsorships or to register online, visit www.ourwrc.com.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
springfieldyps.com

• Feb. 21: February Third Thursday & Trivia, 5 p.m., hosted by Nathan Bills Bar & Restaurant. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members. Visit springfieldyps.com to register.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff October 23, 2012

ACCGS

www.myonlinechamber.com

(413) 787-1555

• Oct. 26: Super 60 Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Chez Josef in Agawam. The chamber’s annual event recognizes the top 60 companies in both revenue and growth. This has always been a well-anticipated event that draws roughly 500-600 people. Presenting sponsor is Health New England. Guest speakers are Stanley Kowalski III, owner and founder of FloDesign Inc., and state Secretary of Housing & Economic Development Greg Bialecki, who will show how government and private industry can work together successfully in this environment. Cost is $50 for members, $70 for non-members. Reservations can be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com, or by emailing Cecile Larose at [email protected].

• Nov. 7: Chamber’s Business@Breakfast, at Ludlow Country Club, Tony Lema Drive in Ludlow. Registration begins at 7 a.m., the buffet opens at 7:30, and the program begins at 7:55. Guest Speaker is Tony Cignoli, who will be giving a recap of the elections. Coffee Bar Sponsor is Reminder Publications. Salutes will be given to Reminder Publications on its 50th anniversary and Columbia Gas on its 165th anniversary. Cost to attend is $20 for chamber members and $30 for non-chamber members. Reservations should be made in advance at www.myonlinechamber.com, by faxing information to (413) 755-1322, or by e-mailing Cecile Larose at [email protected]. Sponsorships are still available. Contact Larose at (413) 755-1313 if you are interested.

Nov. 29: Government Reception, at Storrowton Tavern on the Eastern States Exposition grounds. Sponsors for this event are Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, Verizon, Baystate Health, and Western Mass. Electric Co. Tickets are $50 for members and $70 for non-members. To make reservations, go online to www.myonlinechamber.com, e-mail Cecile Larose at [email protected], or fax your reservation to (413) 755-1322. Sponsorships are available. Contact Cecile Larose if you are interested.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org

(413) 594-2101

• Nov. 14: Greater Chicopee Chamber of Commerce November Salute Breakfast, from 7:15 to 9 a.m., Summit View Banquet & Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Speakers are state Sen. Senator Gail Candaras and state Rep. Joseph Wagner. Among the topics they will address are transportation and gaming. Cost is $20 for members and $26 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org

(413) 527-9414

• Oct. 22: Celebrity Bartenders Night 2012, from 6-9 p.m. at the Opa-Opa Steakhouse & Brewery, 169 College Highway, Southampton. Join us for a night of fun with local celebrities mixing your drinks. Your tips benefit the chamber’s holiday lighting fund. Raffles and more fun. Admission is free.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holycham.com

(413) 534-3376

• Nov. 14: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Eighty Jarvis Restaurant, Holyoke. This Business networking event includes a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and a bake sale. Local accountants and lawyers may attend this event as the chamber’s guests at no charge. Cost is $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register, or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Nov. 15: SBA Business Plan Basics Seminar, 9-11 a.m., at the chamber offices. This workshop will focus on management fundamentals from start-up considerations through business-plan development. Topics will include financing, marketing, and business planning. Presented by Allen Kronick of the Mass. Small Business Development Center Network. Cost is $40, which includes a continental breakfast. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register, or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Nov. 29: SBA Marketing Basics Seminar, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the chamber offices. This workshop will focus on the basic disciplines of marketing, beginning with research — primary, secondary, qualitative, and quantitative. The core focus will be on developing and keeping a customer. Topics will include advertising, public relations, and the importance of developing a marketing plan. Presented by Dianne Doherty, director of the Mass. Small Business Development Center Network. Cost is $40, which includes a light lunch. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register, or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com

(413) 584-1900

• Nov. 2: Health Insurance Info Session, 8-10 a.m.

• Nov. 7: Networking Training Session, 4:15-5 p.m. at the Northampton Survival Center, 265 Prospect St., Northampton, prior to the Arrive@5.

• Nov. 7: Arrive@5, 5-7 p.m. at the Northampton Survival Center, 265 Prospect St., Northampton. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Sponsored by Masiello Employment Services, Webber & Grinnell Insurance, and Dr. Hauschka Skin Care. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

PROFESSIONAL WOMENS CHAMBER

www.professionalwomenschamber.com

(413) 755-1310

• Nov. 14: November Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Max’s Tavern, Springfield, at the

Basketball Hall of Fame, MassMutual Room. Guest speaker is Lynn Ostrowski of Health New England. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

SOUTH HADLEY/GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.shchamber.com

(413) 532-6451

• Nov. 14: Economic Summit, 8-9:30 a.m. at Mount Holyoke College. Guest speaker is James Hartley, professor of Economics, who will talk on current state of the economy. Cost is $15 per person for breakfast. RSVP to [email protected] or call (413) 532-6451.

• Nov. 30: Holiday Party, 5-7 p.m. Sponsor: Village Eye Care. Cost: $5 per person.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com

(413) 426-3880

• Nov. 1: Food Fest West, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Crestview Country Club, Agawam. This is a chance for local Pioneer Valley Restaurants to highlight their culinary expertise. Restaurants participating include Lattitude, Nadim’s Downtown, and Chez Josef, among others. There will be approximately 15 restaurants participating in this year’s event. This year’s presenting sponsor is Western Massachusetts Electric Co. Tickets are $25 for chamber members and for anyone who pays in advance, and $30 at the door. Proceeds raised by the event go to support the chamber’s Educational Fund and the Business Education Grant Program.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org

(413) 568-1618

• Nov. 5: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., at Shaker Farms Country Club, 866 Shaker Road. An open forum with Mayor Daniel Knapik, free and open to the public. To register, call Pam at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

• Nov. 14: Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, 6-9 p.m. at Shaker Farms Country Club, 866 Shaker Road, Westfield. Salute the Business Leader of the Year, Jeffrey Daley, city advancement officer. Guest speaker will be state Sen. Michael Knapik. Platinum sponsor: Westfield State University; Gold sponsors: First Niagara and Noble Hospital; Silver sponsors: Berkshire Bank and Savage Arms. Cost: $45 for members; $50 for non-members. To register, call Pam at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff February 6, 2018

1BERKSHIRE

(413) 499-1600

• Feb. 27: Entrepreneurial Meetup, 8-10 a.m., hosted by Dottie’s Coffee Lounge, Pittsfield. Join us for networking and share what you’ve been working on in an open-mic format. 1Berkshire’s Entrepreneurial Meetups are free events that gather entrepreneurs together to network, learn, and engage.

• Feb. 28: Good News Business Salute, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Zion Church, Pittsfield. Come celebrate Jacob’s Pillow, IS183, and more. This event recognizes major milestones, including anniversaries, expansions, and new product lines of Berkshire businesses, and gives us a chance to come together to applaud their efforts. Member cost: $35 for individual, $140 for table of four, $280 for table of eight. Non-member cost: $45 for individual, $180 for table of four, $360 for table of eight.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 253-0700

• Feb. 8: After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Bistro 63, 63 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Sponsored by Greenfield Savings Bank.

• March 15: After 5 – YPA/AACC, 5-7 p.m., location to be announced.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 594-2101

• Feb. 9: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Berchmans Hall Rotunda, Elms College, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. Network with chamber members at this annual event. Meet with students who are learning about the importance of networking and share your insights with them. Hors d’oeuvres, cash bar, and raffle prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• Feb. 15: CEO Power Hour Luncheon with Spiros Hatiras, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Collegian Court, 89 Park St., Chicopee. Sponsored by Westfield Bank. Come enjoy lunch and listen as Hatiras talks about his journey as president and CEO of Holyoke Medical Center. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members.

• Feb. 21: February Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Sponsored by Insurance Center of New England. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members, $250 monthly sponsor.

• March 2: Shining Stars Awards, 6:30-10 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, Chicopee. The chamber will recognize Interstate Towing Co. as Business of the Year, Dawn Creighton of Associated Industries of Massachusetts as Citizen of the Year, Karen Hansmann as Volunteer of the Year, and Valley Opportunity Council as the Nonprofit Organization of the Year. This event is sponsored by diamond sponsor Westfield Bank; platinum sponsors Polish National Credit Union and PeoplesBank; gold sponsors the Arbors Kids, Holyoke Medical Center, and BusinessWest; and bronze sponsor United Personnel. To register to attend, call the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org and sign up in the Calendar of Events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• Feb. 27: Strengths-based Leadership, 7:45-10 a.m., hosted by Innovative Business Systems, Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. In the first of a two-part series, Colleen DelVecchio, a certified CliftonStrengths coach, will lead us into our strongest selves as leaders via our personnel Gallup StrengthFinder assessment and insight reports. At the end of the two breakfast sessions, you will understand the keys to be a more effective leader, unveil your strengths, learn to invest in the strengths of others, get people with the right strengths on your team, and understand and meet the four basic needs of those who look to you for leadership: trust, compassion, stability, and hope. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber office at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.org

(413) 534-3376

• Feb. 9: Legislative Coffee Hour, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Summit View Banquet and Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Marcotte Ford, bankESB, and Holyoke Medical Center. Guest Speakers: state Rep. Aaron Vega, Holyoke Mayor Alex Morse, and Holyoke City Council President Todd McGee. Join us for a casual conversation about 2018 issues affecting the city of Holyoke and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Cost: $20 for members, $25 for non-members and walk-ins. Price includes a buffet breakfast. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Feb. 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted by the Holyoke Community College Center for Culinary Arts, 164 Race St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Community College. Join us for a casual networking experience at HCC’s new culinary facility. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Feb. 28: Ask a Chamber Expert: How to Attract Customers to Your Marketing Table, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Get ready for the upcoming multi-chamber Taste of Business by learning how to successfully attract customers to your table. Presented by Francie Richardson of Art Craft. Cost: free for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Price includes a continental breakfast. Register at holyokechamber.com.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• Feb. 7: February Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Christopher Heights, 50 Village Hill Road, Northampton. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

n March 7: March Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by 50/50 Fitness, 251 Russell St., Hadley. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage, a division of Merrimack Mortgage Co. A networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• Feb. 5: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is requested at (413) 568-1618 so we may give our host a head count.

• Feb. 13: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by ReStore Westfield (Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity), 301 East Main St., Westfield. Bring your business cards and make connections. Refreshments will be served. A 50/50 raffle will support the chamber’s Scholarship Fund. Cost: free for chamber members, $10 for general admission.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 7: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring political consultant Anthony Cignoli, sharing his insights into the upcoming November elections. Cost: $25 for members ($30 at the door), $35 general admission ($40 at the door).

• Feb. 15: Leadership Institute, first session. Runs through March 29. Presented in partnership with the Springfield Regional Chamber and Western New England University at the TD Bank Conference Center. Applications must be received by Feb. 8.

• Feb. 15: Fire & Ice Craft Cocktail Competition and Fundraiser, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. Sponsored by Florence Bank, the Republican, and MassLive. Cost: $40 for members in advance, $50 general admission in advance, $50 at the door.

• March 7: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Cost: $25 for members ($30 at the door), $35 general admission ($40 at the door).

• March 8: After Hours with Springfield Regional, Greater Easthampton, Westfield and West of the River Chambers, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Mill 180, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Cost: $10 for members, $15 general admission.

• March 9: Outlook 2018, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by the MassMutual Center, Springfield. Featuring keynote speaker Gov. Charlie Baker and Eric Rosengren, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston. Cost: $60 for members in advance; $80 general admission in advance.

• March 13: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, details to be announced.

• March 20: C-Suite Conversations & Cocktails, 5-7 p.m., hosted by CityStage, One Columbus Center, Springfield. Members-only event featuring MGM President Mike Mathis. Cost: $25.

• March 29: Speed Networking, 3:30-5 p.m., location to be determined. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 general admission in advance ($35 at the door).

Reservations for all chamber events may be made by visiting www.springfieldregionalchamber.com, e-mailing [email protected], or calling (413) 755-1310.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• Feb. 7: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Carrabba’s Italian Grill, West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff January 15, 2013

ACCGS

www.myonlinechamber.com

(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 6: Business@Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Springfield Marriott. The monthly Business@Breakfast series pays tribute to individuals, businesses, and organizations for major contributions to civic and economic growth and for actions that reflect honor on the region. The Business@Breakfast gives your company exposure to business owners, upper management, and salespeople. For reservations, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

• Feb. 13: Murder Mystery! After Hours, 5-7 p.m. at City Place Inn and Suites, 711 Dwight St., Springfield. For reservations, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

AMHERST AREA

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com

(413) 253-0700

• Jan. 23: Chamber After Five, 5-7 p.m. Location to be announced. Admission is $5 for members, $10 for non-members. Visit

www.amherstarea.com for more information.

• Feb. 13: Amherst Area Chamber Breakfast, 7:15-9:05 a.m., at the Hampshire College Red Barn. Features a Hampshire County Regional Tourist Council update. Cost is $17 for members, $20 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected] or register online at www.amherstarea.com.

• Feb. 27: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m. at the Hampshire Athletic Club, 90 Gatehouse Road, Amherst. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members. For more information, visit www.amherstarea.com.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org

(413) 594-2101

• Feb. 20: February Annual Meeting/Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Castle of Knights. Tickets are $20 for members, $26 for non-members.

• Feb. 27: February Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at NUVO Bank & Trust Co. Admission is $5 for members, $15 for non-members.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.franklincc.org

(413) 773-5463

For more information on our upcoming events, visit the chamber online at www.franklincc.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org

(413) 527-9414

• Jan. 24: Chamber Annual Meeting and Annual Awards Dinner, 5 p.m., Southampton Country Club. We’ll review a successful 2012 and celebrate member milestones. The event will feature presentation of awards for Business, Business Person, and Community Service Members of the Year. Event Sponsor is Easthampton Savings Bank. Cost is $30 per person, inclusive. For more information, e-mail [email protected].

GREATER HOLYOKE

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holycham.com

(413) 534-3376

• Jan. 16: Chamber Business Networking, 5-7 p.m., at Homewood Suites, 375 Whitney Ave., Holyoke. Sponsored by CareerPoint. Admission is $10 for members and $15 cash for non-members. If you are a member of the hospitality industry or a small retailer, please attend as the chamber’s guest at no charge. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register, or visit holyokechamber.com to sign up.

• Jan. 17: The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and the Holyoke Police Department are teaming up to co-host the chamber’s Open House and a ribbon cutting at the grand opening of the department’s ‘Hub’ office. The events will take place at 176 and 177 High St., 4-7 p.m. Both events are open and free to the public.

• Jan. 28: Basics of Marketing Seminar, 8:30-10 a.m., chamber office. Learn some free and low-cost ideas on marketing your business. Cost is $10 for members and $20 for non-members. A continental breakfast is included in the price. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register or visit holyokechamber.com to sign up.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com

(413) 584-1900

• Feb. 6: Arrive @5, 5-7 p.m., at Easthampton Savings Bank, 241 Northampton St., Easthampton. Arrive when you can, stay as long as you can; a casual mix and mingle with colleagues and friends. Admission is $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

NORTHAMPTON AREA YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY

www.thenayp.com

(413) 584-1900

For more information on our upcoming events, visit the society online at www.thenayp.com.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER

www.professionalwomenschamber.com

(413) 755-1310

• Jan. 16: Business Expo, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Max’s Tavern at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Sign up to showcase your company’s products and services or to attend the event. Display price includes a draped table and lunch for one. General-admission tickets include specialty sandwiches, fruit, chips, and dessert. Tabletop cost (includes one lunch ticket): $70 for PWC members, $100 for non-members. Admission cost (lunch included): $25 for PWC members, $35 for non-members.

QUABOAG HILLS

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.qvcc.biz

(413) 283-2418

For more information on our upcoming events, visit the chamber online at www.qvcc.biz.

SOUTH HADLEY/GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.shchamber.com

(413) 532-6451

For more information on our upcoming events, visit the chamber online at www.shchamber.com.

THREE RIVERS

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.threeriverschamber.org

413-283-6425

For more information on our upcoming events, visit the chamber online at www.threeriverschamber.org.

WEST OF THE RIVER

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com

(413) 426-3880

• Feb. 6: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., at Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 28: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Springfield Country Club, 1375 Elm St., West Springfield. Panel of elected officials will include state Reps. Nicholas Boldyga and Michael Finn, Agawam Mayor Richard Cohen, West Springfield Mayor Greg Neffinger, and state Sen. Michael Knapik. Tickets are $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org

(413) 568-1618

• Feb. 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Miss Sweets, 4 Russell Road, Westfield. The mayor will share information about what’s happening in the city. For more information or to register, contact Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• Feb. 13: February WestNet, 5-7 p.m., at Shaker Farms Country Club, 866 Shaker Road, Westfield. Meet chamber members and bring your business cards. Sponsored by Ashton Services. Admission is $10 for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Payment can be made in advance or at the door with cash or check. Walk-ins are welcomed. Call the chamber at (413) 568-1618 or e-mail Pam Bussell at [email protected]. Your first WestNet is always free.

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

www.springfieldyps.com

• Jan. 17: January Third Thursday Networking Event, 5-7 p.m. at he Colony Club, 1500 Main St., Springfield. The event is free for members, $10 for non-members. For more information, visit www.springfieldyps.com/events.

• Feb. 21: February Third Thursday Networking Event, 5-7 p.m., at Samuel’s Tavern, 1000 West Columbus Ave, Springfield. The event is free for members, $10 for non-members. For more information, visit www.springfieldyps.com/events.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff October 20, 2015

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Oct. 21: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley.

• Oct. 28: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Loomis House, 298 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Nov. 4: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., at Cooley Dickinson Hospital. Join the Greater Easthampton, Greater Northampton, and Amherst Area chambers along with our host, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, for a networking extravaganza. Sponsored by Duseau Trucking.

• Nov. 6:  CheckPoint 2015 Legislative Summit. Registration and networking, 11 a.m.;  welcome, lunch, and keynote speaker, noon to 1:30 p.m.; Chamber View Dialogue with chamber executives, followed by legislative response, 1:30-3 p.m.; cocktail reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres, 3-4 p.m. Keynote speaker: state Senate President Stanley Rosenberg. Also hear from Tim Wilkerson, regulatory ombudsman of Economic Policy Development at the Executive Office of Housing & Economic Development. Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions to invited legislators.

• Nov. 7: 15th Annual Greater Easthampton Chamber Viva Las Vegas Bowl-a-Thon, at Canal Bowling Lanes, 74 College Highway, Southampton. Two sessions: 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. A night of fun, laughs, music by DJ Jay Paglucia, and pizza as you help support funding this season’s holiday lights.

• Nov. 11: Monday Morning with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., Burger King, Easthampton.

• Dec. 3: Holiday tree lighting and visit from Santa, 6:30-8 p.m., at Pulaski Park, Easthampton.

• Dec. 4: Greater Easthampton Chamber Snow Ball, 6-11 p.m., at the Garden House, Look Park. An old-fashioned, elegant, holiday affair. Sit-down dinner featuring Meyers Catering, live music, and dancing featuring Maxxtone. Dress in style, black tie optional.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• Oct. 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Northeast IT Systems Inc., 777 Riverdale St., West Springfield. Business networking event. Refreshments, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for all others. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up, or visit holyokechamber.com.

• Oct. 22: Leadership Holyoke/Meet at Wistariahurst Museum, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A leadership series with HCC faculty members participating as instructors and facilitators. Community leaders will participate as speakers. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and Holyoke Community College.

• Oct. 28: Murder Mystery Dinner, 6-9 p.m., at the Yankee Pedlar, 1866 Northampton St. Networking cocktail hour at 6-7 p.m., with full-course dinner to follow. Sponsored by Meyers Brothers Kalicka and Baystate Restoration Group. During “Mystery at the Masquerade,” trade clues with other guests and solve the crime at this night of masks and murder. Cost: $49.95 for members, $52.95 for non-members and at the door.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Nov. 4: November Arrive @ 5 Open House, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by Cooley Dickinson Hospital, 30 Locust St., Northampton. Cost: $10 for members.

• Dec. 2: December Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Hampshire Council of Governments, Northampton. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Oct. 19: Long-term-care Planning, 4:30-5:30 p.m., at Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Sponsored by Renaissance Advisory. Cost: free for chamber members, $30 for non-members. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618

• Nov. 2: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Amelia Park Children’s Museum, 29 South Broad St., Westfield. Event is free and open to the public. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• Nov. 6: CheckPoint 2015 Legislative Symposium, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., hosted by the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, Holyoke. Cost: $50 for chamber members, $60 (paid in advance) for non-members. For sponsorship opportunities, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• Nov. 9: Eat & Educate: Business Insurance Options, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Westfield Bank, 141 Elm St., Westfield. Presented by Shawn Torress & Kevin Green of Westfield Wealth Management and Westfield Bank. Cost: free for chamber members, $30 for non-members; $75 to attend all three Eat & Educate workshops. RSVP required. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• Nov. 12: November After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Ezra’s Mercantile, 34 Elm St., Westfield. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. Cost: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• Nov. 4: PWC Headline Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., co-located at the Western Mass Business Expo, MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. “New England’s Skills Gap in Advanced Manufacturing,” featuring Alison Lands, senior manager of Deloitte Consulting, LLP. Cost: $40. Reservations may be made online at www.professionalwomenschamber.com. The Professional Women’s Chamber is a division of the Springfield Regional Chamber.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.
(413) 787-1555

• Nov. 4: Springfield Regional Chamber Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., co-located at the Western Mass Business Expo, MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. Pull up a bar stool for a casual conversation with Harpoon Brewery CEO and co-Founder Dan Kenary. Cost: $30 in advance, $35 at the door). Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• Nov. 12: Springfield Regional Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Tech Foundry, 1391 Main St., 9th Floor, Springfield. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• Nov. 19: Springfield Regional Chamber Government Reception, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Meet socially with your local, state, and federal officials. Cost: $50 for members, $70 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

• Nov. 24: Springfield Regional Chamber Pastries, Politics and Policy, 8-9 a.m., hosted by TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Featuring Hampden Country District Attorney Anthony Gulluni. Sponsored by the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County. Cost: $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Oct. 28: Food Fest West, 5:30-8 p.m., at Chez Josef, Agawam. The event will feature the foods of area restaurants, including Chez Josef, Classic Burgers, Crestview Country Club, EB’s, Hofbrau Joe’s, Murphy’s Pub, Partner’s Restaurant, Pintu’s, and more. Proceeds raised by Food Fest West will go toward the Partnership for Education and the WRC Educational Fund, which provides grants to businesses for on-the-job training and continuing-education needs. Cost: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online atwww.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff May 6, 2014

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• May 7: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. “Handicapping the Gubernatorial Elections with Political Consultant Anthony Cignoli.” Saluting Skoler Abbott & Presser, P.C. on its 50th anniversary and A.G. Miller Co. Inc. on its 100th anniversary. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• May 14: ERC Feast in the East, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Twin Hills Country Club, 700 Wolf Swamp Road, Longmeadow. Local restaurants showcase their signature dishes. Cost: $25. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].
• May 21: Capital Matchmaking/Business Coaching, 1-4 p.m., at La Quinta Inn and Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. Business borrower and lender matchmaking event, ideal for small businesses. Presented by the U.S. Small Business Administration and Common Capital, in cooperation with the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield. Reservations are complimentary, but required. Contact Oreste Varela at [email protected] or (413) 785-0484 for details.
• May 27: ACCGS Pastries, Politics & Policy, 8-9 a.m., at TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Designed for political and policy junkies, featuring a policy expert and member of the Patrick administration. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission, and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at [email protected].

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• May 14: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., at Western MA Family Golf Center, 294 Russell St., Hadley. Try the golf simulator and mini-golf, or just enjoy watching and networking. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for guests.
• May 28: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m. at Amherst Laser and Skin Care Center, 264 North Pleasant St., Amherst. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for guests.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• May 21: 48th annual George Ryan & Stanley Kokoszka Golf Tournament, 10 a.m. start, at Chicopee Country Club. Cost: $125 per golfer.
• May 22: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at WWLP-22News, One Broadcast Center, Chicopee. Tickets: $10 for pre-registered members, $15 for non-members.
• May 28: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m. at Elms College. Tickets: $20 for members, $26 for non-members. Sign up online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• May 8: Networking by Night. Call 527-9414 or e-mail [email protected] for more information. Cost: $5 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• May 14: Economic Development Breakfast/Valley Venture Mentors, at Dean Technical High School, 1045 Main St., Holyoke. Sponsored by Ferriter Law and Dowd Insurance. Valley Venture Mentors provides key support to entrepreneurs and startups, connecting them to the mentors they need to grow their business. Breakfast will be followed by a tour of Dean Tech. Cost: $20 for chamber members, $ 30 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 for more information, or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.
• May 19: 46th annual Chamber Cup 2014 Golf Tournament, at Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Registration and lunch at 10:30 a.m., tee off at noon (scramble format), dinner afterward with elaborate food stations catered by the Log Cabin. Cost: $125 per player includes lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart, and dinner. Dinner only: $25. Winner awards, raffles, and cash prizes follow dinner. Tournament sponsors: Log Cabin and PeoplesBank. Corporate Sponsors: Dowd Insurance, Goss & McLain Insurance Agency, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Mountain View Landscapes, Holyoke Medical Center, People’s United Bank, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite & Driscoll. Call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376 or register online at holyokechamber.com.
• May 28: Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting, 5 p.m., at the Delaney House. Sponsored by the Greater Holyoke of Chamber Corporate Leaders. The program is followed by the presentation of the Fifield Award celebrating the volunteer of the year; join elected officials as they award various proclamations to the esteemed recipient. Networking and cocktails at 5, business meeting and elections at 5:30, dinner at 6. The program will include the chamber’s plan for 2014-15, an overview of how the chamber is working for members, and a salute to new members. Admission: $30 in advance, $40 at the door. The public is invited to attend.
• May 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Hotel D., 1 Country Club Way, Holyoke. Sponsored by Easthampton Saving Bank and hosted by chamber members. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• May 7: Arrive@ 5, 5-7 p.m., at King & Cushman, 176 King St., Northampton. Sponsored by Applied Mortgage Services Corp., King Auto Body, and Goggins Real Estate. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register at [email protected].
• May 15: “Art of Small Business” series, “Managing Consultants,” 9-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St. Guest speaker: Don Lesser of Pioneer Training. Cost: $20 for members, $25 for non-members.
• May 19: Bitcoin Informational Seminar, 3-4 p.m. at Forbes Library, 20 West St., Northampton. Sponsored by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Guest speaker: Jesse Vanek. This seminar examines basic Bitcoin concepts, including arguments for and against this powerful, often-misunderstood, and potentially disruptive new technology. Cost: free, but pre-registration is required. To register, call (413) 584-1900 or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• May 14: After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at the Noble & Cooley Center for Historical Preservation, 42 Water St., Granville. Bring a prospective member for free. Cost: $10 for members $15 cash at the door for non-members. Your first After 5 is free. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• May 19: 53rd annual Golf Tournament, featuring prime rib and poker, at Shaker Farms Country Club. Registration is at 10 a.m., with a shotgun start at 11. Sponsorship opportunities are still available. Call Pam at the chamber office for more information at (413) 568-1618, or visit the chamber website.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff March 1, 2011

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• March 2: Business@Breakfast, 7:15 to 9 a.m., Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Speakers: Sheriff Michael Ashe and Springfield Police Commissioner n William Fitchett. Cost: members $20, non-members $30. For reservations, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313 or [email protected].

• March 9: After 5, 5 to 7 p.m., Café Lebanon, Shaker Road, East Longmeadow. Cost: members $10, non-members $20. For reservations, contact Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313 or [email protected].

• March 16: Professional Women’s Chamber Luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., MassMutual Room, Max’s Tavern at the Basketball Hall of Fame. Speaker: Libby Pidgeon, vice president of Human Resources for Big Y Foods Inc. Cost: members $25, non-members $35. To register, contact Lynn Johnson at (413) 755-1310 or e-mail [email protected].

Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce
www.amherstarea.com

• March 16: After 5 joint event with Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, 5 to 7 p.m., Magic Wings Conservatory and Garden, Deerfield. Sponsored by Greenfield Cooperative Bank and Yankee Home Improvement. Cost: members $5, non-members $10.

Chicopee Chamber of Commerce
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• March 16: Salute Breakfast, 7:15 to 9 a.m., MassMutual Learning & Conference Center, 350 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Cost: members $18, non-members $25.

• March 23: 17th Annual Table Top Expo & Business Networking Event, presented by the Chicopee, Greater Holyoke, Greater Easthampton, and Greater Northampton chambers of commerce. Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. More than 175 exhibitors. Exhibitor table fee: $100 (members only). Attendee cost: $5 in advance, $10 at door. Contact above chambers for more information or tickets.

Franklin County Chamber of Commerce
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• March 16: Business After Hours, 5 to 7 p.m., Magic Wings Conservatory and Garden, Deerfield. Co-hosting with Amherst Area Chamber of Comerce. Networking, refreshments, door prizes. Bring business cards. Cost: members $5, non-members $10.

• March 24: GBA Member Showcase, 5 to 9 p.m., Greenfield Grille, 30 Federal St., Greenfield. Refreshments, door prizes, tabletop displays. Cost: free for members of the Greenfield Business Assoc., $5 for the public.

• March 25: Breakfast Series, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Deerfield Inn, Old Deerfield. Theme: “Taking the Risk Out of Business” with Henry Shterenberg, Step-Up Venture University. Music by the Academy at Charlemont. Sponsored by People’s United Bank and the Academy at Charlemont. Cost: members $12 members, non-members $15. Call (413) 773-5463 for reservations.

Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• March 10: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5 to 7 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Venus & the Cellar Bar, 95 Main St., Easthampton. Door prizes, hors d’ouevres, cash bar. Cost: members $5, non-members $15.

• March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon, 12 to 2 p.m., Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, One Atwood Dr., Northampton. Honored guest: Shealyn Berube, Greater Easthampton Jr. Miss. Sponsored by Easthampton Learning Foundation and Finck & Perras Insurance Agency. Cost: members $21.95, non-members $23.95.

Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• March 4: Leadership Holyoke Program. Sponsored by PeoplesBank. Presented by the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Holyoke Community College. Speakers, discussions, classroom time, and field trips are included in this 11-week session. Call (413) 534-3376 for details.

• March 4: Dance Your Way to Wellness, Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Presented by the Greater Holyoke and Chicopee chambers. Cocktails at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m., dance program at 8:15 p.m. Cost: $50, includes dinner, show, and dancing. Call (413) 534-3376 for more information.

• March 17: St. Pat’s Salute Breakfast, 7:30 a.m., Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and Holyoke Mall. Cost: $20. Call (413) 534-3376 for reservations.

• March 29: Table Top Expo, 5 to 6:30 p.m. (snow date: March 30), Holiday Inn, 245 Whiting Farms Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Ross Insurance Agency Inc. Social Media and Digital Marketing Seminar. Cost: members $15, non-members $20. Includes hot appetizers and cash bar. Call (413) 534-3376 to register, or register online at www.holyokechamber.com.

Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• March 2: March Arrive @5, 5 to 7 p.m., Pages Loft Restaurant and Events at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 1 Atwood Dr., Northampton. Cost: $10 for members.

• March 17: St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Pages Loft Restaurant and Events at the Clarion Hotel & Conference Center, 1 Atwood Dr., Northampton. Cost: $17 per person, $170 for a table of 10.

Northampton Area Young Professional Society
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900

• March 10: Party with a Purpose, 5 to 7 p.m., the University Club at UMass Amherst, 243 Stockbridge Road, Amherst. Sponsored by the UMass Fine Arts Center. Cost: members free, non-members $5. For information on the performance, see www.umass.edu/fac/calendar/centerseries/events/philadancodance.html.

Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• March 9: March WestNet, 5 to 7 p.m., Westfield Care & Rehabilitation Center, 60 East Silver St., Westfield. Cost: members $10, non-members $15.

• March 18: Annual St. Patrick’s Day March Breakfast, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Scanlon Hall, Westfield State University, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. Sponsored by premium members Westfield Bank, Noble Health Systems, Westfield State University, and Westfield Gas and Electric. Cost: members $25, non-members $30. There are several different member chamber sponsorship levels available to have your company recognized. Contact Marie Quinn for more information, to reserve tickets, or if you have questions, at (413) 568-1618 or [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff March 24, 2015

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Thursdays, through March 26: ACCGS Leadership Institute 2015, 1-4 p.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. In partnership with Western New England University.

• March 24: ACCGS Pastries, Politics and Policy, 8-9 a.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For political and policy junkies. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• April 1: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. Mayor’s Forum, featuring Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno, West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan, and Westfield Mayor Daniel Knapik. Emceed by abc40’s Dave Madsen. Sponsored by United Personnel. Reservations are $20 for members in advance, $25 for members at the door, and $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• April 8: ACCGS Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at La Quinta Inn and Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. “When Creative Meets Data.” Learn the ‘where’ and ‘how’ to harness the power of real one-to-one personalized marketing. Presented by Mary McCarthy of Andrews Associates. Reservations are $25 for members, $35 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• April 16: East of the River Five Town Chamber Member Appreciation Night, 5-7 p.m., at Europa Black Rock Bar & Grill, 782 Center St., Ludlow. Enjoy networking, games of chance, and more. Reservations are $5 for members, and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com. East of the River Five Town Chamber is an affiliate of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield.

• April 29: ACCGS Beacon Hill Summit 2015, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at the Massachusetts State House. Hosted by state Sen. James Welch. Day-long opportunity to meet with members of the Baker-Polito administration and the Massachusetts delegation. Reservations are $180 per person, including continental breakfast, transportation, lunch, reception, and all summit materials. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
413-253-0700

• March 26: Margarita Madness 2015, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley. Taste a variety of margaritas and vote for your favorites. Step into the tropics and pretend you’re on a Caribbean island. This is a Division One competition between restaurant and business margaritas. Your votes will determine who will take home the coveted Amherst Area Chamber of Commerce trophies. Business margaritas provided by: Alden Credit Union, New England Promotional Marketing, Hadley Farms Meeting House, Country Nissan, Lord Jeffery Inn, TD Bank for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County, Encharter Insurance, Applewood at Amherst, and more to come. Restaurant margaritas provided by: Bistro 63 at the Monkey Bar, Bread & Butter, Bridgeside Grille, Chandler’s Restaurant, the Pub, Lord Jeffery Inn, Hadley Farms Meeting House, Chez Josef, Johnny’s Tavern, and more to come. Food Provided by: Emily’s Gourmet to Go, Something Special Catering, Pallazo Café, Glazed Donut Shop, Pop’s Biscotti, and Johnny’s Tavern. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 253-0700.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
 
• March 25 : 21st Annual Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Exhibitor cost: $125 for a table. Admission: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• April 15: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Summit View Banquet & Meeting House. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• April 16: Mornings with the Mayor, 8-9 a.m., at the Boys & Girls Club, 580 Meadow St., Chicopee. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• April 17: Lunch & Learn, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hampton Inn, 600 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Attorney Kate O’Brien from Sullivan, Hayes & Quinn will present “No Union, No Worries? No Way!” This is an informative program about what almost all private-sector, non-union employers need to do to avoid being a target of the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB). For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• April 22: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at La Quinta Inn & Suites, 100 Congress St., Springfield. For more information, call the chamber at (413) 594-2101.

• May 15: Lunch & Learn, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Hampton Inn, 600 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. “ACA Compliance: Employer Requirements and Management Tools.” Learn about a solid, user-friendly road map for understanding compliance issues. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• May 20: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Renaissance Manor on Cabot, 279 Cabot St., Holyoke. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• May 21: Greater Chicopee Chamber Golf Tournament, 10 a.m., at Chicopee Country Club. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

• May 27: Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Elms College, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 594-2101 or visit www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• March 25: 21st Annual Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Exhibitor cost: $125 for a table. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the door. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• April 2: Greater Holyoke & Greater Easthampton Chambers of Commerce Legislative Luncheon, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Easthampton Savings Bank, Holyoke Community College, H&R Block, United Bank, United Personnel, and TD Bank. Ask questions, get answers, and hear issues defined. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members, and $240 for a table of eight. Call the Holyoke chamber at (413) 534-3376 or the Easthampton Chamber (413) 527-9414 to sign up.

• April 13: Monday Morning with the Mayor: Getting Down to Business about Business. Casual conversation with Mayor Karen Cadieux, 8-9 a.m., at Burger King, 113 Northampton St., Easthampton. Free and open to the public.

• May 11: Monday Morning with the Mayor: Getting down to Business about Business. Casual conversation with Mayor Karen Cadieux, 8-9 a.m., at Easthampton Savings Bank, 36 Main St., Easthampton. Free and open to the public.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• Greater Holyoke & Greater Easthampton Chambers of Commerce Legislative Luncheon, 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Easthampton Savings Bank, Holyoke Community College, H&R Block, United Bank, United Personnel, and TD Bank. Ask questions, get answers, and hear issues defined. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members, and $240 for a table of eight. Call the Holyoke chamber at (413) 534-3376 or the Easthampton Chamber (413) 527-9414 to sign up.

• May 15: Chamber After Hours at Pic’s Place, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored and Hosted by Pic’s Place, 910 Hampden St., Holyoke. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or sign up online at www.holycham.com.

• May 18: Annual Chamber Cup 2015 Golf Tournament, celebrating the chamber’s 125th anniversary, 10:30 a.m. at Wyckoff Country Club, 233 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Registration and lunch at 10:30 a.m.; tee off at noon (scramble format); dinner following game with elaborate food stations catered by the Log Cabin. Cost: $125 per player includes lunch, 18 holes of golf, cart, and dinner. Dinner only: $25. Awards, raffles, and cash prizes follow dinner. Tournament sponsors: Log Cabin and PeoplesBank. Corporate sponsors: Dowd Insurance, Goss & McLain Insurance Agency, Holyoke Gas & Electric, Mountain View Landscapes, Holyoke Medical Center, People’s United Bank, the Republican, and Resnic, Beauregard, Waite & Driscoll. For reservations, call the Chamber Office at (413) 534-3376 or register online at www.holycham.com.

• May 21: Chamber Business Connections, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored and hosted by PeoplesBank, in the atrium in the PeoplesBank Building at 330 Whitney Ave. Cost is $10 for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Join your friends and colleagues for this fun and casual evening of networking. Refreshments, door prizes, and 50/50 raffle.

• June 19: Save the date for the chamber’s 125th Anniversary Gala Ball at the Log Cabin Banquet & Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Cocktails at 6 p.m., dinner at 7 p.m. Enjoy an elegant meal and dance to the music of the Floyd Patterson Band. Join Marcotte Ford as one of the major event sponsors by calling (413) 534-3376. Event is open to the public. More details to follow.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• March 25: 21st Annual Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Exhibitor cost: $125 for a table. Admission: $10 in advance, $15 at the door. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 584-1900

• May 6: May Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m. at Whalen Insurance Agency. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 584-1900

• July 1: July Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m. Sponsored by Pioneer Landscapes and Easthampton Electrical. For more information or to register, contact the chamber at (413) 584-1900.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• April 6: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Dever Auditorium at Westfield State University, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event, so we may give our host a head count.

• April 8: April After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Vantage Sports & Rehab, 130 Southampton Road, Westfield. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• April 28: Southwick Home to Business Show, at Tucker’s Restaurant. For more information, contact Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• May 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Renaissance Manor, 37 Feeding Hills Road, Westfield. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register, so we may give our host a head count.

• May 13: May After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Refreshments will be served. Bring your business cards and make connections. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• May 18: Save the date for the annual golf tournament at 10 a.m. at Tekoa Country Club. More details to come.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• April 14: Professional Women’s Chamber Ladies Night, 5-7 p.m., at Hofbrauhaus, 1105 Main St., West Springfield. Enjoy complimentary wine and refreshments. Reservations are complimentary but required. To reserve a spot, contact Gwen Burke at (413) 237-8840 or [email protected]. The Professional Women’s Chamber is an affiliate of the Affiliated Chambers of Commerce of Greater Springfield.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• April 1: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Kaptain Jimmy’s, 916 Suffield St., Agawam. Sponsored by Easthampton Savings Bank. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants, which bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 at the door for non-members. Event is open to the public. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• April 16: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Cal’s, 1068 Riverdale Road, West Springfield. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. Please note, we cannot invoice you for these events. Attendees must be members or guests of members.  For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff October 22, 2013

AFFILIATED CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555
• Oct. 25: Super 60 Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Chez Josef, Agawam. Celebrate the region’s top-performing companies. Now in its 24th year, this awards program celebrates the success of the fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the region that continue to make significant contributions to the strength of the regional economy. Presented by Health New England with support from Hampden Bank, Sullivan Hayes & Quinn, the Republican, and WWLP-TV 22. Reservations are $50 for members, $70 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Nov. 6: Business@Breakfast, 7:30- 9 a.m., at the Western Mass Business Expo, MassMutual Center, Springfield. Keynote speaker: Jim Koch, founder of the Boston Beer Co. and maker of the Samuel Adams family of beers. Hear the story of how Koch took his generations-old family recipe and changed the beverage landscape forever. Sponsored by the Regional Employment Board of Hampden County, MassMutual Center, United Personnel, and Frigo’s Foods. Reservations are $25 and may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Nov. 13: ACCGS After 5, 5-7 p.m., the TD Bank Building. Sponsored by TD Bank. Tickets are $5 for members, $10 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Nov. 21: ACCGS Government Reception, 5-7 p.m. at the Carriage House, Storrowton Tavern, West Springfield. A great opportunity to meet socially with your local, state, and federal officials. Sponsored by Baystate Health, Columbia Gas of Massachusetts, and United Personnel. Tickets are $50 for members, $70 for general admission, which includes complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• Nov. 26: ACCGS Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 7:30-9 a.m. Reservations are $15 for members, $20 for general admission, and includes complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Call (413) 755-1313 for more information. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.
• Dec. 4: ACCGS Business @ Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Colony Club, Springfield. Topic: “The Value of Volunteerism.” Sponsored By Masiello Employment Services. Tickets are $20 for members, $30 for general admission, which includes complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700
• Oct. 18: Legislative Breakfast, 7:15 – 9 a.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn. Sponsored by Western Massachusetts Electric Co. Admission: $15 for members, $20 for non-members.
• Nov. 20: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Amherst Survival Center. Sponsored by SciDose LLC. Admission: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101
• Nov. 3: November Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr. in Chicopee. Admission: $20 for members, $26 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414
• Oct. 21: Celebrity Bartenders Night, 6-9 p.m. at Opa-Opa Steakhouse & Brewery, 169 College Highway, Southampton. Join us for a night of fun with local celebrities mixing your drinks! Your tips benefit the chamber’s holiday lighting fund. Raffles and fun. Admission is free.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376
• Oct. 22: Social Media with Constant Contact Workshop, 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. This information-packed seminar offers a basic review of the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand to successfully get started with social-media marketing. Admission is free. Presented by Constant Contact. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.
• Oct. 30: Manufacturing Breakfast, 7:30-9:30 a.m., at the Wherehouse, 109 Lyman St., Holyoke. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900
• Oct. 22: Business to Business Marketing Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. “In a Flash: On-the-spot Marketing Tips for Growing Your Visibility.” Struggling to gain visibility with your target audience? Are your marketing materials producing tangible results? Are your best messaging ideas living only in your head? The chamber has help on the way. Three women business owners — Janice Beetle, Ruth Griggs, and Maureen Scanlon of the Creative, a marketing and communications collaboration in Northampton — will lead a B-to-B flash-marketing workshop. They will meet with fellow business owners at our conference room table, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business, reach the media, and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register for this workshop, contact Jasmin Tomic at (413) 584-1900 or [email protected].
• Nov. 6: Arrive@5 Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m., at the World War II Club. Sponsors: Homeward Vets. Catered by Big Kats Catering. We’ll be collecting donations for Homeward Vets. A list of needed donations will be posted on the website. Tickets are $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].
• Nov: 19: “The Art of Consulting,” 8:30-10 a.m. at the chamber office. This special program is a collection of the guiding principles of consulting that sum up the lessons presenter Don Lesser he has learned over the past 30 years. Each topic is summarized in a short, often humorous saying, which is followed by a longer explanation. In this session, Lesser, who has been a consultant and run a business that uses consultants for more than 30 years, will cover some of the basics of being a consultant, including “The Three Laws of Consulting,” “What Have You Done for Me Lately?” “Rules for Good Client Management,” and “Discount Sushi, or How Much Should You Charge?” The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, call (413) 584-1900, or e-mail www.explorenorthampton.com.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618
• Nov. 4: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the Genesis Spiritual Life and Conference Center, 53 Mill St., Westfield. Have coffee with Mayor Daniel Knapik, who will share information about what’s happening in the city. For more information or to register, contact Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618.
• Nov. 6: 2013 Annual Meeting & Awards Dinner at the Westwood Restaurant, 94 North Elm St., Westfield. More information to come as this event date approaches.
• Nov. 13: WestNet, 5-7 p.m., the Cove, 90 Point Grove Road, Southwick. Come and meet chamber members and bring your business cards for a great networking opportunity. Cost: $10 cash for chamber members, $15 cash for non-members. Payment can be made in advance or at the door. Walk-ins are welcome. Call the chamber at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail Pam Bussell at [email protected] for more information. Your first WestNet is always free.

MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
(413) 525-2506
• Nov. 12: Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, 9 a.m. registration, at the Double Tree, Westborough. For more information on ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, call the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].

NORTHAMPTON AREA YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900
• Nov. 14: November Networking Social, 5 p.m., at the Northampton Brewery. Community involvement, networking, business and professional development. NAYP is excited to host its first event at the famed Northampton Brewery. Enjoy delicious beer and savory hors d’oeuvres. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members. RSVP on Facebook.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310
• Oct. 24: A Chocolate Affair, 6-9 p.m., at Chez Josef, Agawam. Indulge yourself in chocolate, shopping, and networking. Presented by the Professional Women’s Chamber, an affiliate of the ACCGS. Exhibitor space is $70. Reservations to attend are $40. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Nov. 6: November Luncheon at the Western Mass. Business Expo, at the MassMutual Center, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Keynote Speaker: Kathrine Switzer, first female Boston Marathoner in 1967. More than 40 years later, Switzer’s story continues to capture the public’s imagination. Reservations cost $35 members, $40 for non-members, and may be made at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880
• Oct. 23: West of the River Chamber of Commerce Business to Business Expo, hosted by WRC, North Central CT Chamber, Bradley Regional Chamber, and East Windsor Chamber, 4:30-7:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, Enfield. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD
www.springfieldyps.com
• Oct. 31: The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield and Northampton Area Young Professionals are co-producing a special October CEO Panel Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., at Sláinte restaurant, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Led by moderator George O’Brien, editor of BusinessWest magazine, the panel will explore the question, what steps can the Pioneer Valley take to foster entrepreneurship and cultivate talent? Lunch and networking, 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m; panel, 12:15 to 2 p.m. Sponsored by Adam Quenneville Roofing and Siding and BusinessWest.

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff December 13, 2016

AMHERST AREA
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Dec. 12: Holiday After 5 & AmherstWorks Ribbon Cutting, 5-7 p.m., at AmherstWorks, 11 Amity St., Amherst. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and Young Professionals of Amherst. Join the Amherst Area Chamber and the Young Professionals of Amherst at our annual holiday party sponsored by PeoplesBank. Mid-December is an ideal time of year to see familiar faces, build fresh relationships, and be part of the fun as we welcome new members to the chamber. As a special feature that evening, we’ll also be cutting the ribbon of Amherst’s new co-working space, AmherstWorks. Tours of the facility will be available, and everyone will have a chance to win one of our special holiday raffle prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.amherstarea.com or call (413) 253-0700.

FRANKLIN COUNTY
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• Dec. 16: 34th Annual FCCC Holiday Breakfast and the Recorder Citizen of the Year Award, 7:20-9:05 a.m., hosted by Deerfield Academy Dining Commons, Albany Road, Deerfield. Come celebrate the holidays with Franklin County Chamber of Commerce members, employees, and guests, at a sumptuous breakfast buffet provided by Deerfield Academy. Gary Maynard & Friends will perform seasonal musical entertainment before and during breakfast through the generosity of the Skip Hammond Family. Cost: $25 for members and their employees, $28 for non-members. Call (413) 773-5463 to make a reservation.

GREATER CHICOPEE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Dec. 21: December Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Chuck’s Auto Body & Towing, Mountain View Landscapes & Lawn Care, Paratemps Inc., Reminder Publications, and Sunshine Village. Chairperson: Judith Tremble-Murphy. Guest Speaker: Sy Becker of WWLP 22 News. Salutes: Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry, 25-year anniversary; American Red Cross Blood Service, 135-year anniversary; Chicopee Electric Light, 120-year-anniversary. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Register online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER HOLYOKE
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Dec. 14: Holiday Business Breakfast 2016, 7:15 a.m.-9 a.m., hosted by the Log Cabin, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Sponsored by Holyoke Gas & Electric, Health New England, United Bank, and the Republican-El Pueblo Latino-MassLive. Business networking and salutes while enjoying a hearty buffet breakfast. Cost: $22 for members in advance, $28 for non-members and at the door. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit www.holyokechamber.com to sign up.

• Dec. 21: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., sponsored and hosted by the Delaney House, Three Country Club Road, Holyoke. This business-networking event in a festive atmosphere includes a 50/50 raffle, door prizes, and money (scratch-ticket) wreath. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Public registration has closed. Call (413) 534-3376 for more information.

GREATER WESTFIELD
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Dec. 16: Holiday Chamber Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Tekoa Country Club, 459 Russell Road, Westfield. Sponsored by Westfield State University, Baystate Health, Savage Arms, Easthampton Savings Bank, and Walmart. A 50/50 raffle will support two Citizen’s Scholarships. To register, visit www.westfieldbiz.org. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information or to donate a door prize for the event, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Dec. 13: Ladies Networking Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Cooper’s Curtains & Gifts, 161 Main St, Agawam. This event will feature special sale items from the store’s extensive collection of gifts, home goods, and women’s apparel. Make new friends, create business contacts, enjoy the refreshments, and celebrate the season. Admission is free.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Dec. 14: Springfield Regional Chamber “The Art of Networking” After 5, 5-7 p.m, hosted by Ninth Floor Art Gallery, 1350 Main St., Springfield. Cost: $5 for members, $10 for non-members. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880

• Dec. 15: Google Lunch Seminar/SCORE, noon to 2 p.m., hosted by West Springfield Public Library, 200 Park St., West Springfield. Let SCORE give valuable tips on how to effectively use Google to market your business. Cost: free. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com or call (413) 426-3880.

• Jan. 12: Google Workshop, noon to 2 p.m., hosted by West Springfield Public Library, 200 Park St., West Springfield. Workshop sponsored by WRC and SCORE. Learn how to effectively utilize Google Analytics and AdWords to better your company’s online exposure. Light lunch will be served. Cost: free. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected], or register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• Feb. 9: Multi-Chamber Lunch & Learn Seminar on Robert’s Rules of Order, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Enjoy lunch while learning about Robert’s Rules of Order with guest speaker Robert MacDonald. Cost: $35. Sponsorship opportunities are available for this event. For more information, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

• Feb. 22: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The breakfast will feature a panel of various legislators and mayors discussing community concerns, giving updates on their towns, and taking questions and answers from the audience. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff February 24, 2015

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Feb. 27: Outlook 2015 Luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at the MassMutual Center, 1277 Main St., Springfield. The guest speaker will be Gov. Charlie Baker. He will be joined in the program by U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, who will remark on events at the federal level. Outlook is the area’s premier legislative event, attracting more than 700 guests. Area elected officials will also be in attendance to participate in this discussion of front-burner issues. Tickets are $50 for ACCGS members and $70 for general admission. Reserved tables of 10 are available. Reservations are required. Contact Member Services Director Sarah Mazzaferro at [email protected]

• March 4: ACCGS Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. The topic is “Hard Hats Required: The I-91 Viaduct Project.” Learn about the state reconstruction project and its local ancillary impacts, with a panel discussion featuring Al Stegman from the Mass. Department of Transportation, Chris Cignoli from the Springfield Department of Public Works, and Mary McNally from the Springfield Parking Authority. Salutes: TSM Design on its 30th anniversary and Revitalize Community Development Corp. on its new name and expanded services. Sponsored by United Personnel. Reservations are $20 for members in advance, $25 for members at the door, and $30 for general admission. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• Thursdays through March 26: ACCGS Leadership Institute 2015, 1-4 p.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield, in partnership with Western New England University.

• March 11: ACCGS Speed Networking, 3:30-5 p.m., at Frank Webb’s Bath Center, 145 Performance Blvd., Springfield. Network in a fast-paced round-robin format, then stay for the After 5. This event is open only to members. Reservations are $20 for members, $25 at the door. Includes complimentary ticket to After 5. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• March 11: ACCGS After 5, 5-7 p.m., at Frank Webb’s Bath Center, 145 Performance Blvd., Springfield. Reservations are $5 for members, $10 for general admission. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

• March 24: ACCGS Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For political and policy junkies. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• March 26: Margarita Madness 2015, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley. Taste a variety of margaritas and vote for your favorites. This is a Division One competition between restaurant and business margaritas. Your votes will determine who will take home the coveted trophies. Business margaritas provided by Alden Credit Union, New England Promotional Marketing, Hadley Farms Meeting House, Country Nissan, Lord Jeffery Inn, TD Bank for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Hampshire County, Encharter Insurance, Applewood at Amherst, and many more to come. Restaurant margaritas provided by Bistro 63 at the Monkey Bar, Bread & Butter, Bridgeside Grille, Chandler’s Restaurant, the Pub, Lord Jeffery Inn, Hadley Farms Meeting House, Chez Josef, Johnny’s Tavern, and many more to come. Food provided by Emily’s Gourmet to Go, Something Special Catering, Pallazo Café, Glazed Donut Shop, Pop’s Biscotti, and Johnny’s Tavern. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For more information, contact the chamber at (413) 253-0700.

CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Feb. 25: February Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at Elms College, 291 Springfield St., Chicopee. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

• March 6: Shining Stars Banquet, 6:30-10 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Business of the Year: DeJordy, Dugre, Croteau & Company, P.C.; Citizen of the Year: Andy Crane, A. Crane Construction; Chamber Volunteer of the Year: Jason Reed, Boys & Girls Club of Chicopee; Nonprofit Organization of the Year: Elms College. Tribute to Associated Industries of Massachusetts. Tickets: $60 per person.

• March 25: 21st Annual Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Exhibitor cost: $125 for a table. Admission $10 in advance, $15 at the door. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• March 25: 21st Annual Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Exhibitor cost: $125 for a table. Admission is $10 in advance, $15 at the door. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• Feb. 24: How to Start and Maintain Your Business/Marketing Your Business, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at the Holyoke Chamber, executive conference room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Series Sponsors: PeoplesBank, Common Capital, Mass Cultural Council/the Artery, in partnership with Holyoke Creative Arts. What you need to know about designing a logo, branding your business, advertising opportunities, social media, and developing a website. Tickets cost $20. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 or visit holyokechamber.com to sign up.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Feb. 24: 2015 Table Top Orientation, noon to 1 p.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. For Table Top participants only. RSVP to (413) 584-1900.

• Feb. 26: Starting Your Own Business, 6-9 p.m., at the Business Growth Center, basement level, 1 Federal Street, Building 101, Springfield. Starting a small business requires more knowledge, skills, perseverance, and planning than meets the eye. This three-hour workshop will help you clearly understand the details, challenges, opportunities, and rewards of owning and operating your own business through the real-life experiences of several successful entrepreneurs. This course is a suggested prerequisite for our Business Planning workshop. Tickets cost $25. RSVP to Len Gendron, SCORE Western Massachusetts, at (413) 785-0314, or e-mail contact.[email protected]

• March 3: Build Your Marketing Toolkit Seminar, 5:30-8 p.m., at the Business Growth Center, basement level, 1 Federal Street, Building 101, Springfield. Attendees of this presentation will learn what marketing really is (and isn’t), how marketing has changed in ways that benefit small businesses, the importance of setting goals and objectives for their marketing efforts, and the 4 Pillars of Marketing Success, a framework that shows how different marketing activities all fit together, and will help small businesses reflect on their own marketing program. Start to build a foundation of marketing knowledge, from which you can build more effective campaigns to help your business or organization grow. Cost: free. RSVP to Len Gendron, SCORE Western Massachusetts, at (413) 785-0314, or e-mail contact.[email protected].

• March 4: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Fitzwilly’s, 23 Main St., Northampton. Arrive when you can, Stay as long as you can. A casual mix and mingle with your colleagues and friends. Sponsored by Thornes Marketplace, Grogan Speer, and ESB Financial Services. Tickets: $10 for members.

• March 6: 2015 Annual Meeting, noon to 2 p.m., at Union Station Banquets, 125 Pleasant St., Northampton. A fun meeting with your chamber colleagues. Play Jeopardy; we’ll test your knowledge of our members. A fun wrap-up of 2014 and preview of 2015, honoring our volunteers. Sponsored by PeoplesBank. Tickets: $35 per person for chamber members.

• March 13: Microsoft Excel: Tips, Tricks, and Shortcuts, 9-11 a.m., at the chamber office, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Learn tips and tricks no one ever teaches you from the trainers at Pioneer Training. This workshop will present our favorite tips, tricks, and shortcuts that we have collected and developed over 15 years of teaching and using Microsoft Excel. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops and follow along with the instructor, but this is not required. Admission: $20 for members, $30 for non-members.

• March 17: 35th Annual St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., in the Hotel Northampton Grand Ballroom. Also, Join us at Fitzwilly’s for the annual after-breakfast toast and for the laying of the wreath at the Daley and Halligan memorial stone on the former state hospital grounds. Tickets: $20 per person. Tables of 10 also available.

• March 25: 21st Annual Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke. Exhibitor cost: $125 for a table. Admission $10 in advance, $15 at the door. To register, contact the chamber at (413) 584-1900.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• March 2: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Dan Knapik. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• March 13: March Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Westfield State University, 577 Western Ave., Westfield. Platinum sponsor: Westfield Bank. Gold sponsor: Westfield Gas & Electric. Silver sponsor: FieldEddy Insurance. For more information or to donate a raffle prize, call the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

• March 18: March After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at Noble Primary Care, 57 Union St., Westfield. Bring your business cards and make connections. Refreshments will be served. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam at the Chamber office at (413) 568-1618.

NORTHAMPTON AREA YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY
www.thenayp.com
(413) 584-1900

• March 7: Full Moon Snowshoeing, 6:30 p.m. Join us for a full-moon snowshoe hike at Hilltop Orchards in Lenox. We will be led on an interactive, 90-minute journey that includes a bonfire, wine tasting, and entertainment. Dress for the weather, and bring a light and some water. The event costs $10 and includes a tasting of six Furnace Brook wines (if you are 21 or over). Bring your own snowshoes or rent them for $15. RSVP by March 1 by joining our Facebook event.

PROFESSIONAL WOMEN’S CHAMBER
www.professionalwomenschamber.com
(413) 755-1310

• March 18: Professional Women’s Chamber Tabletop Expo/Luncheon,
11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Storrowton Tavern, Carriage House, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Featuring Tracy Noonan of Wicked Good Cupcakes and contestant on ABC’s Shark Tank. Reservations are $25 for PWC members, $35 for general admission. Register online at www.myonlinechamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880

• Feb. 25: Legislative Breakfast, 7-9 a.m., at Storrowton Tavern, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. The breakfast will feature a panel of various legislators: State Sens. James Welch and Donald Humason, Agawam Richard Cohen, and West Springfield Mayor Edward Sullivan. Tickets: $25 for members, $30 for non-members. For more information on ticket sales, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIERLD
www.springfieldyps.com

• March 14: 2015 YP Cup Dodgeball Tournament, at Springfield College, 263 Alden St., Springfield. To register a team (up to eight players, two must be of the opposite sex ) or an individual, visit springfieldyps.com/2015-dodgeball-individual-registration-form. E-mail questions to [email protected]. Reception to follow at Nathan Bill’s Bar & Grill, 110 Pond Road, Springfield.

• March 19: March Third Thursday, 5-8 p.m., at the Storrowtown Meeting House and Carriage House, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. This event is open to everyone. Invite your friends. Food and cash bar. Admission: free for YPS members, $10 for non-members.

Chamber Corners: Upcoming Events

By BusinessWest Staff May 2, 2017

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 527-9414

• May 11: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Amy’s Place Bar & Grill, 80 Cottage St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Easthampton Savings Bank.

• June 6: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m. “Move the Mountain” with the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, hosted by New City Brewery, 180 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Finck & Perras Insurance Agency Inc. and Westfield Bank.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 584-1900

• May 5: Spring Swizzle Auction, 6:30-10:30 p.m. Hosted by Eastside Grill, Strong Ave., Northampton. Cost: $75. Purchase tickets at www.chamberspringswizzle.com.

• May 10: May Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at Goggins Real Estate, 79 King St., Northampton. Sponsors: Applied Mortgage, Greenfield Community College Foundation, MassDevelopment, and Northeast Solar. Networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

• May 11: “Google Analytics,” 9-11 a.m., at the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by SCORE of Western Mass. What is Google Analytics? A free, powerful analytics tool that provides reports showing how visitors found your website and what they did when they got there. It measures the effectiveness of your online and offline marketing campaigns. Pre-registration is required; space is limited. Cost: free.

• May 18: “Intro To QuickBooks,” 9-11 a.m., at the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by Pioneer Training. This session will cover setting up a new company, invoicing and receiving payments, writing checks, and paying bills. The session will end with a brief introduction to and overview of reports. It is suitable for those who have recently started using QuickBooks and those planning to use it. This session is taught on the PC desktop version, but the basic principles of QuickBooks remain the same for the Windows, Macintosh, and online versions of the program. Be aware that specific details of how to accomplish a task or available features may differ on the different versions, and these differences will not be covered. It is not required, but if you have a laptop or tablet and have QuickBooks installed, you may bring it and follow along. Note: this workshop is designed for training on the basics of QuickBooks and is not intended to troubleshoot problems individuals may currently be experiencing. Those types of questions are better suited to a one-on-one consulting session. Cost: $25 for members, $35 for non-members.

• June 7: June Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., at ConVino, 101 Armory St, Northampton. Sponsors: Keiter Builders and MassDevelopment. Networking event. Cost: $10 for members.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 568-1618

• May 1: Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce, May Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., hosted by Amelia Park Ice Arena, 21 South Broad St., Westfield. Join us for our monthly Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public. Call the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• May 5: “What to Expect at the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination,” 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Imagine one afternoon an envelope from the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) arrives in the mail. You are filled with dread as you discover that a former employee has filed a complaint alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Now what? Join Attorney Timothy Netkovick of Royal, P.C. for a workshop to discuss what to expect at the MCAD. Cost: free for members, $30 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door or in advance). Light refreshments will be served. Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• May 10: May After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Armbrook Village, 551 North Road, Westfield. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members (cash or credit paid at the door). Refreshments will be served, and a 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber’s CSF – Dollars for Scholars fund. Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• May 22: The chamber’s 56th annual golf tournament, 10 a.m., the Ranch Golf Club, Southwick. Sponsors: Whip City Fiber, SealRyt Corp., Westfield Bank, Baystate Noble Hospital. Along with a round of golf, bid at the live auction to benefit three $500 student scholarships and win some raffles. Online registration, along with information on sponsorships and foursomes, are available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

(413) 755-1310

• May 3: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Featuring Peter Sokolowski, Merriam-Webster’s editor at large, who will speak about trending words, Merriam-Webster’s sassy tweets, and some of the 1,000 new words recently added to the dictionary. Cost: $22.50 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for non-members in advance ($35 at the door).

• May 10: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, “The Trump Effect: Potential Impact on Employer Mandates,” 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Presented by attorney Amelia Holstrom of Skoler, Abbott & Presser. Cost: $25 for members in advance ($30 at the door), $35 for non-members ($40 at the door).

• May 17: Speed Networking, 3:30-5 p.m., hosted by Lattitude, 1338 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Cost: $20 for members in advance ($25 at the door), $30 for non-members in advance ($35 at the door).

• May 23: Professional Women’s Chamber Woman of the Year Celebration, 5:30 p.m., hosted by Storrowton Tavern Carriage House, 1305 Memorial Ave., West Springfield.

• May 30: Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m., hosted by TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Cost: $15 for members ($20 at the door), $25 for non-members in advance ($30 at the door).

Sponsorship opportunities are available. Register online for events at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or e-mail [email protected] for more information.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

(413) 426-3880

• May 3: Wicked Wednesday and grand re-opening, 5:30-7:30 p.m., hosted by Curry Printing/Fast Signs, West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information about this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• May 10: Job Fair 2017, 3-7 p.m., hosted by Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. The town of Agawam and the West of the River Chamber will be hosting a local job fair. West Springfield and Agawam businesses, along with other employment opportunities, will be showcased. This event is free and open to the public. To be a participating vendor, register online at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• May 18: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Lattitude in West Springfield. Members or guests of members may attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately the day of the event. We cannot invoice you for these events. For more information or to register, visit www.westoftheriverchamber.com or contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or [email protected].

Chamber Corners

By BusinessWest Staff September 5, 2017