Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — On Nov. 19, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC) celebrated the graduation of the second cohort of the Quantum Training Academy, a pioneering program preparing Western Mass. students for careers in the emerging quantum computing industry.

The ceremony, held at the UMass Center in downtown Springfield, honored students as young as grade 9 who successfully completed an intensive curriculum combining quantum computing fundamentals with early college coursework. Attendees included program leaders, industry representatives, and regional officials, all gathered to recognize the students’ achievements and the growing quantum talent pipeline in the region.

“These graduates have shown remarkable dedication and curiosity,” said Kimberly Robinson, executive director of PVPC. “Their achievements highlight the potential of local students to excel in fields that will shape the future of technology and innovation.”

Vanessa Otero, senior fellow for Economic Development at PVPC, added that “the Quantum Training Academy is about more than technical skills — it’s about creating pathways, networks, and opportunities that allow students to thrive in high-demand industries.”

The Quantum Training Academy is a collaborative initiative funded by the Innovation Institute at MassTech and developed in partnership with Springfield Technical Community College, UMass Amherst, New North Citizens’ Council, the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership, and industry leaders, including QuEra Computing. The program equips students with hands-on experience in quantum technologies, preparing them for careers in sectors ranging from medicine and cybersecurity to advanced manufacturing.

With members of the local education and technology communities in attendance, the graduation underscored the impact of public-private partnerships in cultivating a skilled, homegrown workforce. The Quantum Training Academy reflects PVPC’s ongoing commitment to equitable economic development, providing students from Springfield and neighboring communities with access to transformative opportunities in cutting-edge technology fields.

Daily News

Christa Douaihy

SPRINGFIELD — Christa Douaihy and Krista Ellis — two attorneys at Community Legal Aid, a nonprofit organization that provides free legal services annually to more than 9,000 low-income and elderly households in Central and Western Mass. — have been recognized among Massachusetts’ top legal professionals.

Krista Ellis

Douaihy, coordinating attorney for Community Legal Aid’s Housing Unit, was recognized on Nov. 18 by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly as one of the 2025 Top Women of Law. According to the publication, the Top Women of Law event celebrates the achievements of exceptional women lawyers who are pioneers, educators, trailblazers, and role models.

Douaihy joined Community Legal Aid in 2022 as a seasoned litigator with diverse legal experience in New York and Massachusetts. She began her career in 2008 at Legal Services of the Hudson Valley, where she advocated for the civil rights of people with disabilities in cases involving housing, employment, and family law. She went on to hone her legal expertise as a civil litigator and disability rights advocate at the Bronx Defenders and in private practice.

As coordinating attorney in Community Legal Aid’s Fair Housing Unit, she specializes in eviction defense, brings lawsuits under state and federal fair housing laws, provides community education and outreach, and mentors her colleagues. She serves as an adjunct professor at Western New England University School of Law, where she teaches the “Access to Justice” course.

“It is an immense privilege to work in the legal profession in Massachusetts,” Douaihy said. “We have a progressive tradition. We have dedicated judges who are committed to the rule of law and enhancing access to justice. We have a passionate bar who, along with community organizations, work tirelessly to address root causes of inequity and vindicate rights. I am proud to be among them.”

Ellis, coordinating attorney at Community Legal Aid, was honored as an emerging leader in the law by the Women’s Bar Assoc. (WBA) at the organization’s 2025 gala on Oct. 22. The WBA’s Emerging Women Leaders in the Law Award honors women attorneys who have demonstrated professional excellence or had a significant professional achievement in their first 12 years in the legal profession, and either promote the status of women in the legal profession or contribute meaningfully to the equal participation of women in a just society.

A graduate of American University Washington College of Law, Ellis has worked in Community Legal Aid’s Family Law Unit since 2019. She also recently graduated from the Massachusetts Bar Assoc. 2024-25 Leadership Academy.

Both Douaihy and Ellis are based in Community Legal Aid’s Springfield office and represent clients primarily in Western Mass.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) announced its upcoming #GivingTuesday on the Rocks: Celebrity Bartenders fundraising event, taking place Tuesday, Dec. 2 from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. at White Lion Brewing Co., Tower Square, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Parking will be validated in Tower Square.

This festive #GivingTuesday celebration invites the community to come together in support of Revitalize CDC’s mission of revitalizing homes, neighborhoods, and lives through preservation, education, and community involvement. Guests will enjoy an evening filled with fun, purpose, and local star power as community leaders step behind the bar for a fun-filled night of fundraising.

The event will feature live music by DJ Groove, courtesy of White Lion Brewing Co., along with food and beverages; a portion of all sales will be donated to Revitalize CDC.

A dynamic lineup of local celebrities will compete to raise the most in tips, with 100% of all bartender donations supporting Revitalize CDC’s mission-driven programs. They include Ryan Alekman of Alekman DiTusa, Matt Bannister of PeoplesBank, Carla Cosenzi of TommyCar Auto Group, Dawn Creighton of Liberty Bank, Robert DiTusa of Alekman DiTusa, Nikki Gleason of Florence Bank, Chris Kellogg of WMAS 94.7 FM, Rania Kfuri of Glenmeadow, Chrissy Kiddy of PeoplesBank, Jay Latorre III of Verizon, Mary McGovern of Country Bank, Dan Moriarty of Monson Savings Bank, Frank Robinson (retired) of Baystate Health, and Moyah Smith of B-Side Entertainment & Memories Matter. Any donation of $1,000 or more is eligible for a 50% Community Investment Tax Credit.

Event sponsors include APlus HVAC, ASAP Environmental, Country Bank, Garvey Communication Associates Inc., and Rocky’s Ace Hardware. For those unable to attend, donations are accepted at www.revitalizecdc.com.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University (WNE) and Bay Path University have signed a new articulation agreement that creates a streamlined academic pathway between two rapidly expanding fields, genetic counseling and pharmacogenomics. The partnership is designed to support the significant regional workforce demand for professionals trained in precision medicine, genomic testing, and personalized therapeutics.

Under the agreement, WNE will reserve at least two seats annually in its master of science in pharmacogenomics (MSPGx) program for qualified graduates of Bay Path’s master of science in genetic counseling (MSGC) program. Conversely, Bay Path will reserve at least five interview seats in its MSGC program annually for WNE MSPGx graduates. Students accepted through this pathway will also receive six transfer credits toward the MSPGx or MSGC degree, which may reduce the cost of their graduate studies.

Genetic counseling and pharmacogenomics are increasingly critical to modern healthcare. Genetic counselors help patients interpret genomic information and make informed decisions about inherited risks and treatment options, while pharmacogenomics focuses on how genes influence an individual’s response to medications, enabling physicians to prescribe more effectively and safely.

These skills are in high demand across Massachusetts and New England. The 2025 MassBio Industry Snapshot reports that the Commonwealth will face a significant life sciences talent gap over the next decade, particularly in roles requiring molecular diagnostics, genomic analysis, and precision medicine expertise.

In Western Mass., health systems such as Baystate Health, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, and Berkshire Health Systems are expanding their use of pharmacogenomic testing in oncology, cardiology, psychiatry, and chronic disease management. Providers increasingly depend on genomic data to guide chemotherapy dosing, tailor cardiovascular medications, and improve the effectiveness of behavioral health treatments. As precision medicine becomes more integrated into everyday care, these organizations continue to seek graduates with advanced training in genomic interpretation and pharmacogenomic decision making.

“This partnership supports the growing precision-medicine ecosystem in our region by preparing professionals who can bridge genomic evaluation with personalized therapeutic decision making,” said Shannon Kinney, MSPGx program coordinator and professor of Pharmacology at WNE. “Bay Path’s talented MSGC graduates arrive with a strong foundation in patient-centered genetic interpretation. By continuing their studies in pharmacogenomics at WNE, they can expand their expertise and play a vital role in improving patient outcomes across New England’s evolving healthcare landscape.”

To qualify for the reserved seats and transfer credits, interested students must meet established academic standards, including maintaining at least a 3.5 GPA and completing designated prerequisite coursework. Applications for the pathway must be submitted by April 1 each year.

The agreement also outlines joint recruitment and advising initiatives, including co-hosted virtual and in-person information sessions to ensure students understand the academic requirements and career opportunities in both fields.

“This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to expanding academic opportunities for students who want to deepen their expertise in genetics and personalized medicine,” said Susan Capasso, associate director of Bay Path University’s MSGC program. “By creating a smooth and supportive pathway between our programs, we are giving students more flexibility, more opportunity, and a direct route into one of the fastest-growing areas of healthcare.”

With precision medicine continuing to reshape how healthcare is delivered, the WNE-Bay Path articulation agreement positions both universities as key contributors to strengthening the genomic and pharmacological workforce pipeline in Western Mass. and beyond.

Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts will kick off a milestone year for its signature annual fundraising tradition with two community marches — starting with the first-ever Berkshire Mini-March on Saturday, Nov. 22 in Pittsfield, followed by the 16th annual March for the Food Bank from Springfield to Greenfield on Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 24-25.

The Berkshire Mini-March begins at 9:30 a.m. at Hot Plate Brewing in downtown Pittsfield. The three-mile route includes stops at several Food Bank member food pantries, including Mercado De Vida and the Berkshire Dream Center. The final stop at the Pittsfield Community Pantry invites marchers to get involved directly by assembling Thanksgiving Angels packages for local families.

On Monday, New England Public Media’s Monte Belmonte, U.S. Rep. Jim McGovern, and Food Bank Executive Director Andrew Morehouse will once again lead the 43-mile journey from Springfield to Greenfield. Gov. Maura Healey is scheduled to join part of the March on Tuesday.

Both march routes can be found by clicking here.

For the Food Bank, the March is more than tradition — it is the largest annual fundraiser for the organization. “The strength of communities across our region is extraordinary,” Executive Director Andrew Morehouse said. “Month after month, we see more people needing food assistance, more than at the height of the pandemic. The march is one way we meet these challenges together — with resolve, generosity, and a shared belief that everyone deserves reliable access to nutritious food without barriers or stigma.”

With demand at historic levels — more than 123,000 people seek food assistance each month, a number that is likely to continue to rise — the march plays a critical role in keeping food flowing to nearly 200 partner food pantries and meal sites across the region.

This year, the Food Bank aims to raise $650,000, the equivalent of 1.3 million meals for families, seniors, and veterans across Western Mass. Nearly $250,000 has already been raised through early support from marchers, donors, and sponsors.

“The energy around this year’s march is incredible,” said Jillian Morgan, the Food Bank’s director of Development. “People are showing up with such heart, whether they’re registering, fundraising, or sponsoring. We’re grateful for every person who helps carry the Food Bank’s mission forward.”

Media sponsors WRSI 93.9 the River and New England Public Media will air programming on food insecurity and hunger leading up to and during the march.

People can donate by phone at (888) 323-4673 on Monday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., or anytime online at marchforthefoodbank.org.

The March for the Food Bank is supported by hundreds of individuals and dozens of local businesses, with a special thanks to Alekman DiTusa LLC, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Boston Mutual Life Insurance Co., CoBank, Dean’s Beans Organic Coffee Co., Eversource, Fallon Health, Greenfield Savings Bank, Innovative Industrial Properties, M&T Bank, PeoplesBank, Lia Auto Group, and Performance Food Group.

Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced it will donate $25,000 to local community organizations across the Berkshire County and South Shore regions to assist with combating food insecurity and providing winter fuel assistance.

This financial commitment arrives at a moment when many local partners are seeing record need. Rising fuel costs have pushed many households to the edge, and increasing demand at food pantries has led to strained resources. MountainOne is stepping in with funding that will help keep homes warm and ensure families have access to healthy meals.

In Berkshire County, MountainOne will contribute $10,000 to local food pantries, including Thanksgiving Angels Inc., Berkshire Grown Inc., Berkshire Food Project Inc., Al Nelson Food Pantry, and the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

In the South Shore region, MountainOne will contribute $5,000 to local food pantries, including End Hunger New England, which provides meal packages for South Shore Food Pantries, as well as the Rockland Emergency Food Pantry, Interfaith Social Services, and the Scituate Food Pantry.

Lastly, MountainOne will direct its $10,000 donation for fuel assistance to the Pittsfield Area Council of Congregations (PACC) Hearth and Home Fuel Fund.

“I am moved to commend MountainOne for supporting the needy in our community through the PACC fuel fund with this generous gift. $10,000 will keep quite a few households warm in what is already shaping up to be a very difficult season,” said Rabbi David Weiner, PACC past president. “Funded by gifts from many congregations, corporations, and individuals and administered directly through the Salvation Army, the PACC fuel is a last-resort resource for Pittsfield residents who will be left in the cold without another oil delivery. This gift will make a difference.”

In addition to these donations, MountainOne Cares, an employee-led group, held a Thanksgiving basket raffle to raise employee donations and hosted local canned food drives for employees and customers across all locations. Proceeds from the raffle and items collected at the food drives will be donated to seven different food pantries across the bank’s communities.

“As the need around us grows, our commitment has only become stronger. The organizations we are supporting are lifelines for local families, and we are grateful for the work they do every single day,” said Brenda Petell, vice president and Community Engagement officer at MountainOne. “It is a privilege to stand with them and help provide food, warmth, and relief for our neighbors across Berkshire County and the South Shore.”

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Massachusetts Department of Youth Services (DYS) and the Center for Human Development’s Adolescent Reentry Services division are once again partnering with three local nonprofit organizations — Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, Give Music, and the Springfield Cultural Partnership — to present the third annual Holiday Tree Jubilee.

This festive community celebration will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 25 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Tower Square Food Court, 1500 Main St., Springfield. Thanks to the generosity of community sponsors, the Holiday Tree Jubilee remains free and open to all.

“The Holiday Tree Jubilee reminds us that, even in challenging times, we can create something beautiful when we come together. The magic starts with us — with every partner, volunteer, and community member working to bring joy to youth and families,” DYS Facility Administrator Katisha Woods-Johnson said.

This year’s Holiday Tree Jubilee promises an evening filled with holiday cheer for families and youth. Attendees will enjoy photos with Santa, live carolers, a hot chocolate station, dance performances, face painting, cookie decorating, ornament making, letters to Santa, Friendly’s sundaes, and more. The celebration highlight — a holiday tree raffle — features 105 (and counting) beautifully decorated, family-themed holiday trees, all donated and designed by community partners. Every tree will go home with families in attendance at no cost.

“We are honored to continue this purposeful partnership as we usher in the holiday season for families in our community,” said Shannon Rudder, president and CEO of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services. “This collaboration represents more than a celebration — it is a heartfelt commitment to spread much-needed joy, hope, and support to our neighbors. Together, we are reminded of the strength of community and the importance of lifting one another up.”

Picture This

Banking on the Community

bankESB recently announced its continued support for the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club as a $6,400 season ticket holder sponsor. This sponsorship helps provide critical funding for youth programs that empower and inspire local children to reach their full potential. 

bankESB’s Michael Oleksak (third from left) with, from left, Victoria Larriva, Sarah Calabrese, and Dan D’Angelo of the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club. bankESB also recently announced its $10,000 sponsorship of Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s annual Golf FORE Health Tournament, a fundraising event that supports vital healthcare programs and services for the community

bankESB’s Michael Oleksak (third from left) with, from left, Victoria Larriva, Sarah Calabrese, and Dan D’Angelo of the West Springfield Boys and Girls Club. bankESB also recently announced its $10,000 sponsorship of Cooley Dickinson Hospital’s annual Golf FORE Health Tournament, a fundraising event that supports vital healthcare programs and services for the community.

 

Cooley Dickinson’s Nancy Lapointe and Kevin Whitney (second and fourth from left) with, from left, bankESB’s Cara Crochier, William Judd, Joseph Williams, Lauren Tabin, Timothy Czerniejewski, Elizabeth Schabacker, Michael Oleksak, and Christopher Scott.

Cooley Dickinson’s Nancy Lapointe and Kevin Whitney (second and fourth from left) with, from left, bankESB’s Cara Crochier, William Judd, Joseph Williams, Lauren Tabin, Timothy Czerniejewski, Elizabeth Schabacker, Michael Oleksak, and Christopher Scott.

 

Legacy Award

Dozens of area companies were honored by the Springfield Regional Chamber on Nov. 7 in its 36th annual Super 60 awards program, which recognizes excellence in five core categories: Revenue, Growth, Start-Up, Give Back, and Non-Profit. In addition, the chamber presented its first-ever Legacy Award, which recognizes an organization with deep and lasting contributions to the region’s economic and community vitality. The inaugural honor went to Balise Motor Sales Co. 

Pictured, from left: Alex Balise and Jeb Balise with Diana Szynal, president and CEO of the Springfield Regional Chamber.

Pictured, from left: Alex Balise and Jeb Balise with Diana Szynal, president and CEO of the Springfield Regional Chamber.

 

 

Happy Occasion

On Oct. 25, Happier Valley Comedy held the grand opening of its new Dream Theater in Hadley with an improv show and reception. The new theater, located next door to the previous performance space at 1 Mill Valley Road, features expanded theater seating, an accessible stage, theatrical lighting, and an improv-friendly set. The expansion was funded in part by $115,000 in matching funds from the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Cultural Facilities Fund Capital Grant.

On Oct. 25, Happier Valley Comedy held the grand opening of its new Dream Theater in Hadley with an improv show and reception

On Oct. 25, Happier Valley Comedy held the grand opening of its new Dream Theater in Hadley with an improv show and reception

 

United in Support

Florence Bank recently announced a gift of $73,520 to the United Way of the Franklin and Hampshire Region. The bank provided direct support of $50,000, and its employees pledged an additional $23,520 as part of the bank’s annual workplace campaign. The combined gift will be used to support the United Way’s annual Diaper Drive, food insecurity efforts, the Ski United event, and event sponsorships. 

Pictured, from left: Chris Mullen and Jen Halpin of Florence Bank, Holly Martineau of the United Way, Ryan Hess and Matt Garrity of Florence Bank, Geoff Naunheim of the United Way, and Jenna Rahilly of Florence Bank.

Pictured, from left: Chris Mullen and Jen Halpin of Florence Bank, Holly Martineau of the United Way, Ryan Hess and Matt Garrity of Florence Bank, Geoff Naunheim of the United Way, and Jenna Rahilly of Florence Bank.

 

Supporting Local Youth

On Oct. 20, Eastern States Exposition (ESE) and the town of West Springfield visited the West Springfield Boys & Girls Club to present a check for $6,000 toward an all-new technology lab for the students it serves. This donation comes from the ESE-West Springfield Trust. 

Pictured, from left: West Springfield Boys and Girls Club trustee Jim Sherbo and board chair Mike Oleksak; ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy; West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt; and West Springfield Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Dan D’Angelo, trustee Joe Kelley, Development Director Sarah Calabrese-Dunphy, and Assistant Development Coordinator Victoria Larriva.

Pictured, from left: West Springfield Boys and Girls Club trustee Jim Sherbo and board chair Mike Oleksak; ESE President and CEO Gene Cassidy; West Springfield Mayor Will Reichelt; and West Springfield Boys and Girls Club Executive Director Dan D’Angelo, trustee Joe Kelley, Development Director Sarah Calabrese-Dunphy, and Assistant Development Coordinator Victoria Larriva.

 

 

Taking Action Against Hunger

Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. (MBK) recently partnered with Rachel’s Table in support of Alianza DV Services of Holyoke. During Hunger Action Month in September, MBK raised more than $700 and was able to donate 464 pounds of food to Alianza DV Services through Rachel’s Table of Western Massachusetts. 

Pictured, from left: members of the Rachel’s Table team with Mallory Beauregard and Keara King from Meyers Brothers Kalicka.

Pictured, from left: members of the Rachel’s Table team with Mallory Beauregard and Keara King from Meyers Brothers Kalicka.

Agenda

Difference Makers Nominations

Through Dec. 22: BusinessWest is now accepting nominations for its 18th annual Difference Makers awards. BusinessWest launched the Difference Makers program in 2009 to recognize and celebrate the work of individuals, groups, businesses, and institutions that are positively impacting the communities of Western Mass. As previous honorees have shown, there are many ways to make a difference within our community, such as working on initiatives aimed at improving quality of life; succeeding in business, public service, or education; inspiring others to get involved; and making an imaginative effort to help solve societal issues. Nominations for the Difference Makers class of 2025 are due by Monday, Dec. 22 and can be submitted at businesswest.com/difference-makers-nomination-form. For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

 

MGM Springfield Tree Lighting

Nov. 28: MGM Springfield will usher in the holiday season with its annual tree lighting ceremony, marking the opening of Holiday Winter Wonderland on Armory Square, featuring the city’s only outdoor skating rink. Festivities kick off at 5:15 p.m. with special appearances by the New England Patriots cheerleaders, Pat the Patriot, Red Sox mascot Wally, the Springfield Thunderbirds’ own Boomer, and Santa Claus himself. At 5:30 p.m., MGM Springfield will welcome Westfield native and The Voice semifinalist Madison Curbelo as she performs holiday favorites from the Armory Square Stage. Visitors can enjoy a hot chocolate or festive adult beverages available in our outdoor Lion’s Den winter cabin, located next to the skating rink. Local favorite Jeannie’s Weenies will be serving up its signature all-beef hot dogs with fresh toppings, plant-based options, and sweets. A brief welcome program will begin at 6 p.m., led by the MGM Springfield team and Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno. The official tree lighting and grand opening of the skating rink will immediately follow. Throughout the season, MGM Springfield invites guests to enjoy a festive experience at Armory Square, including a coordinated holiday tree light and music show with magical snow, that will be on display every hour, on the hour, from 2 to 10 p.m., seven days a week. This season, the ice skating rink will remain open until Jan. 4, 2026. Tickets for the ice rink can be purchased in person.

 

Holiday Marketplace, Festival of Wreaths

Dec. 5-7: A holiday tradition continues at Berkshire Botanical Garden (BBG) with Holiday Marketplace, featuring a preview party and Gallery of Wreaths. The festivities begin Dec. 5 in BBG’s Center House from 5 to 7 p.m. The party includes early wreath-buying opportunities, live music, hors d’oeuvres and a raw bar, and festive libations. This is a pre-registered event. Admission is $75 for members and $100 for non-members. The Marketplace runs Dec. 6-7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature artisan vendors from throughout the region as well as a collection of one-of-a-kind designer wreaths, an assortment of holiday-blooming amaryllis and paperwhites in decorative and clay containers, succulent arrangements, garlands, hanging terrariums, and other gift items. The weekend festivities will include live music, s’mores around a campfire, and hot drinks from the Best Damn Espresso coffee truck.

 

Women of Impact

Dec. 9: BusinessWest will celebrate its eighth annual Women of Impact cohort at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit www.businesswest.com/eventcalendar/womenof-impact-2025. The class of 2025, featured in the Oct. 27 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes Tara Brewster, vice president of Business Development and Director of Philanthropy at Greenfield Savings Bank; Tracy Friedenberg, executive director of Bacon Wilson, P.C.; Chelsea Kline, executive director of Cancer Connection; Ayanna Crawford, president of AC Consulting and Media Services; Rania Kfuri, vice president for Philanthropy, Sales, and Marketing at Glenmeadow; Angelina Ramirez, CEO of Stavros Center for Independent Living; Amanda Sanderson, executive director of Resilience Center of Franklin County; and Sarah Rose Stack, lecturer of Public Relations at UMass Amherst. The event is presented by Country Bank and TommyCar Auto Group and sponsored by Bacon Wilson, P.C.

 

Berkshire County Development Alliance Winter Mixer

Dec. 9: The Berkshire County Development Alliance (BCDA) will host an informal networking mixer from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Hot Plate Brewing Co., located at 1 School St., Pittsfield. All are invited to drop by after work, grab a drink, and connect with fellow development professionals, volunteers, and community members from across Berkshire County. This get-together is a relaxed way to meet new people, share ideas, make connections, and learn about what others are working on in the area — no pitches or presentations required. The event is free to attend. Light snacks and drinks are available for purchase from Hot Plate. RSVP is requested by Dec. 5 at [email protected], but walk-ins are welcome. Visit bit.ly/4cDsUjA to learn more.

 

Follow My Steps Foundation Annual Gala

Dec. 14: Follow My Steps Foundation announced its annual gala, Stepping Into 2026, will be held at the Basketball Hall of Fame. This event will bring together community leaders, partners, supporters, and youth to celebrate the strides made over the past year and to rally support for future expansion of the foundation’s mentorship, career readiness, and financial literacy programs. The event will also introduce the Pioneers for Change Award, recognizing exemplary changemakers whose actions resonate with Follow My Steps’ mission. Guests will enjoy a catered dinner, live entertainment, and uplifting stories about the youth served by the foundation. The evening also marks the launch of a community giving campaign, aiming to raise $10,000 in individual contributions that fuel mentorship, education, and empowerment initiatives throughout the year. Early bird tickets (through Nov. 14) cost $55 for adults and $27.50 for children. General admission tickets (Nov. 15-30) cost $65 for adults and $32.50 for children. Final admission tickets (Dec. 1-14): cost $75 for adults and $37.50 for children. Visit www.followmysteps.org/steppinginto2026 to purchase tickets. Businesses and community partners are also invited to join as sponsors of the Stepping Into 2026 Gala. Five tiered sponsorship levels — copper, bronze, silver, gold, and platinum — offer meaningful opportunities to align one’s brand with youth empowerment and community advancement. Each level includes a range of benefits such as brand visibility across digital and print channels, recognition during the event, logo placement, program ads, reserved tickets, and social media promotion.

People on the Move
Josh Levine

Josh Levine

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C., a multi-disciplinary law firm with offices in Springfield and Northampton, announced the addition of Josh Levine as of counsel, bringing extensive experience in commercial real estate, land use, and business licensing to the firm’s growing practice. Levine joins Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin after a distinguished career spanning more than 17 years. His experience includes serving as product liability defense counsel at a boutique litigation firm in Washington, D.C., trial counsel at the U.S. Department of Justice Tax Division, and partner at Levine Law, where he focused on commercial transactions and land use. In his role at Shatz, Schwartz & Fentin, Levine assists clients with all aspects of commercial real estate transactions, secured financing, land use and zoning, business licensing, and purchases and sales. He represents clients extensively before local boards throughout Western Mass. and across the state for liquor licensing matters. Levine has been actively involved in his community, serving on the Longmeadow Select Board since 2021, currently as chair, and previously on the Longmeadow Planning Board from 2019 to 2021. He earned his juris doctorate with honors and a bachelor’s degree in English from George Washington University.

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Eric Padelford

Eric Padelford

Pittsfield Cooperative Bank announced the promotion of Eric Padelford to chief operating officer. As COO, he will lead the bank’s operational strategy and execution, aiming to drive innovation, efficiency, and exceptional customer experience across all areas of the organization. A dynamic and results-driven operational leader with decades of experience in technology, finance, and banking, including extensive experience in the financial services sector since 2010, Padelford has been instrumental in modernizing Pittsfield Cooperative Bank’s infrastructure and aligning its operations with long-term strategic goals. He holds a master’s degree in data science from Eastern University, which fuels his data-driven approach to process improvement, performance management, and digital transformation. As COO, Padelford will collaborate closely with Levante and CEO Mike Daly to guide the bank’s strategic initiatives and uphold its 136-year legacy of service to the Berkshires.

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Alison Tower

Alison Tower

bankESB announced the promotion of Alison Tower to senior vice president of Enterprise Risk Management and Legal Services. In her new role, Tower will lead enterprise risk management initiatives, ensuring rigorous compliance and legal oversight across all business lines at bankESB and the family of banks that comprises Hometown Financial Group, including bankESB; bankHometown; North Shore Bank; Abington Bank and Colonial Federal Savings Bank, divisions of North Shore Bank; and Hometown Mortgage. With an extensive background in risk and legal services, she has been instrumental in shaping strategic approaches that strengthen the bank’s risk posture. Tower joined bankESB in 2015, bringing with her a wealth of experience from running her own law practice in Amherst. She earned her juris doctorate from Western New England University School of Law, an MBA in finance from UMass Amherst, and a bachelor’s degree in gender studies from Bard College at Simon’s Rock. Tower currently serves as president of the board of directors for Easthampton Community Center, an executive committee member for Brockton Housing Partnership, and a finance committee member for Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity. She also contributes her expertise as a review board member for the Western Massachusetts Mortgage Loan Review Board and on the loan committee for Worcester Community Housing Resources.

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Frank Robinson

Frank Robinson

Nikki Gleason

Nikki Gleason

Moyah Smith

Moyah Smith

Robin Youmans

Robin Youmans

Revitalize Community Development Corp. (CDC) announced the election of two new members to its board of directors: Frank Robinson, retired vice president and Public Health officer at Baystate Health, and Nikki Gleason, vice president and branch manager at Florence Bank in West Springfield. Robinson has made decades of contributions to public health, education, and community development across Western Mass. and beyond. Early in his career, he advanced health equity through leadership roles in the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health and the Northeast Ohio Developmental Center. He went on to serve as the founding executive director of Partners for a Healthier Community and director of Community Health Planning at Baystate Health, where he championed upstream approaches to community well-being. From 2015 to 2024, as vice president and Public Health officer at Baystate Health, Robinson played a pivotal role in establishing the Baystate Academy Charter Public School and the Baystate Springfield Educational Partnership, both designed to empower Springfield students through academic excellence and college readiness. He also led regional initiatives such as the Anchor Collaborative and the Alliance for Digital Equity, and in 2023, he secured a $5.1 million grant from the Massachusetts Broadband Institute to expand digital literacy and public connectivity. Gleason brings more than 25 years of experience in commercial and community banking to the board. As vice president and branch manager at Florence Bank, she is known for her dedication to helping businesses and individuals achieve financial stability through personalized, relationship-driven service. She has also demonstrated her long-standing commitment to community revitalization by volunteering for more than a decade as a Revitalize CDC #GreenNFit Neighborhood Rebuild house captain, helping transform homes and neighborhoods across Springfield. The organization also announced new board leadership with Moyah Smith, owner of B-Side Entertainment & Memories Matter, elected as board chair, and Robin Youmans of the Center for Human Development elected as board clerk. Smith, who has served on Revitalize CDC’s board for 10 years, succeeds John Robinson, who led the board for the past five years and will continue to serve as a member after more than two decades of volunteer leadership.

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The Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst has appointed Paula Murphy as the new state director of the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC) Network. She founded and directed the Massachusetts Export Center, the network’s international trade arm, in 1994. Under her leadership, the center became one of the nation’s most respected export assistance programs, helping Bay State companies achieve more than $200 million in annual export sales and earning multiple national honors, including the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Excellence and Innovation Award and the Presidential E Award, the federal government’s highest recognition for contributions to American exports. Murphy brings more than 30 years of international trade and business development experience in both public and private sectors. In addition to her leadership at the Export Center, she taught graduate-level international marketing and export/import operations at Boston University and previously served as an international trade advisor for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and as an international marketing analyst with Hagan & Co. Her early work included representing the Irish Trade Board (now Enterprise Ireland) and the Australian Commission in New England. Throughout her career, Murphy has been recognized for professional excellence and service. She is a certified global business professional, a certified U.S. export compliance officer, and a five-time recipient of the Massachusetts State Star award from the Assoc. of Small Business Development Centers (ASBDC). A graduate of Suffolk University, she has served on multiple nonprofit boards and as national co-chair of the ASBDC’s international trade committee. As state director, Murphy will oversee the network’s nine offices across the Commonwealth, including the MSBDC state office in Amherst; regional centers in Newton, Fall River, Pittsfield, Salem, Springfield, and Worcester; as well as the Massachusetts Export Center and Government Sales Center.

•••••

Katherine von Haefen

Katherine von Haefen

The Berkshire United Way (BUW) board of directors has officially approved Katherine von Haefen as president and CEO, effective immediately. She previously served as interim while continuing her role as director of Community Impact. Von Haefen joined BUW in October 2021 and has led region-wide initiatives focused on early childhood education, food security, and nonprofit investment. She also spearheaded BUW’s $1 million annual investment strategy and played a key role in shaping the organization’s strategic plan. She brings more than two decades of nonprofit leadership experience, including her tenure at United Way of Greater Houston, where she led major initiatives in early childhood development and public policy advocacy. She will continue to serve on the city of Pittsfield’s Commonwealth Preschool Partnership Initiative leadership committee, the Massachusetts Early Childhood Funder Collaborative steering committee, and the board of Berkshire Area Health Education Center.

•••••

Nick DePalma

Nick DePalma

Notch Mechanical Constructors announced the retirement of Steven Neveu, who has served as president for the past 28 years, and the appointment of Nick DePalma as the company’s new president, effective Oct. 1. This leadership transition marks a new chapter for Notch, continuing its long-standing commitment to quality, safety, and innovation across New England’s industrial mechanical construction industry. Stepping into the role of president, DePalma brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of Notch’s operations, clients, and values. Having served as executive vice president for the past three years, he has played an integral role in driving strategic growth and maintaining the company’s reputation for excellence in mechanical contracting.

•••••

Jason Urban

Jason Urban

Colonial Carpentry Innovations Inc. announced the addition of Jason Urban as consultant and production manager. Urban brings more than two decades of experience in the custom woodworking industry, cabinetry design, and home improvement to the Colonial team. Known for his strong communication skills, organizational excellence, and steady leadership, he has built a career centered on craftsmanship, collaboration, and genuine customer care. Urban’s experience includes years with Michael Humphries Woodworking, where he worked closely with architects, builders, and homeowners. He earned accolades while working at rk MILES, where he served clients throughout the Pioneer Valley. He built his career helping homeowners and builders alike find creative, practical solutions that balance beauty and durability. As a U.S. Army National Guard Veteran, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service. His background instilled a strong sense of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork — qualities that continue to shape his professional approach today.

•••••

Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Mass., announced the appointment of Paul Whitfield as retail banking officer. With more than two decades of experience in the financial industry, he brings a depth of knowledge, leadership, and customer-focused service that align seamlessly with Country Bank’s mission to make a difference in the communities it serves. Whitfield began his career in the financial sector in 2001 as a loan officer for a small brokerage in Lakeville, later expanding his expertise across several leading financial institutions, including Citizens Bank, Santander Bank, Bank of America, Berkshire Bank, and Fiserv. His professional journey has included roles as a banker, assistant manager, manager, small business officer, and merchant specialist, each reinforcing his dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Whitfield has served for more than 34 years as a youth basketball and baseball coach, mentoring countless student athletes across New England. His leadership extends to serving on the programs committee with the Corridor 9/495 Chamber of Commerce and previously as a committee of management member and sub-committee chair for special events with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southeastern Massachusetts, where he received the Massachusetts Governor’s Alliance Against Drugs Award for his volunteerism.

•••••

Hector Suarez

Hector Suarez

Jeffrey Lomma

Jeffrey Lomma

David Gadouas

David Gadouas

Westfield Bank announced the appointment of Hector Suarez as retail banking officer and branch manager, and Jeffrey Lomma as business specialist, both at its 1342 Liberty St. office in Springfield. Suarez, who joins the bank with more than 30 years of banking experience, is responsible for leading and managing the branch, including customer service, retail and business product sales, employee development, and overseeing general branch operations. He has held various officer and management roles for several national banks in the Greater Springfield area and has been recognized throughout his banking career for sales and service excellence. He has been very active with financial literacy, most recently with first-time homebuyer seminars for the Holyoke Housing Authority. A familiar face to customers and coworkers, Lomma returns to the bank, where he previously served in business development and management roles, including in the Springfield market. In his new role, he is responsible for servicing existing and developing new business relationships, community development within Springfield, and supporting the branch as needed. Lomma originally joined Westfield Bank in 2006, departing to be the Member Services director for the Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western New England University and is deeply involved with the local community, currently serving as a board member for the West of the River Chamber of Commerce and as treasurer and board member of the Asnuntuck Community College Foundation. Westfield Bank also announced the appointment of David Gadouas as assistant vice president and branch manager at the bank’s 599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee branch. He joins the bank with nearly two decades of banking experience. In his new role, he will be responsible for leading and managing the branch, including customer service, retail and business product sales, employee development, and overseeing general branch operations. Gadouas has held various officer and management positions at both community and national banks across the local area. Throughout his banking career, he has been recognized for his significant contributions to employee development and advancement. He is an alumni of Westfield State University with a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics.

•••••

Kent Griffiths

Kent Griffiths

The Wealth Transition Collective, a values-based financial planning firm located in Holyoke, announced the the addition of industry veteran Kent Griffiths, who joined the firm in early October as head of Investment Strategy. Griffiths brings with him more than 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, most recently from MFS, the pioneering firm that launched the multi-trillion-dollar mutual fund sector. During his career, he has collaborated with thousands of financial advisors, providing market insights and innovative investment strategies that have enabled countless advisors and their clients to navigate the complexities of the financial landscape. Griffiths has lived in various parts of the U.S. before making his home in Western Mass. Originally from Southern California, he moved to Houston during his early school years and attended the University of Texas at Austin. There, he met his college sweetheart, Ruth Mitchell, and began a lifelong partnership. The couple eventually settled in Boston before moving to Western Mass. in 2000.

•••••

The National Assoc. of State Boards of Education (NASBE) recently announced that Michael Moriarty, executive director of OneHolyoke CDC and a longtime advocate in the movement to advance early literacy in the Commonwealth, is a recipient of NASBE’s 2025 Distinguished Service Award, recognizing exceptional contributions to education. Moriarty recently completed his tenure on the Massachusetts State Board of Education after 10 years of service, during which he chaired the state’s early literacy subcommittee, and was a member of the budget subcommittee and commissioner evaluation committee. He was also an active member of NASBE’s early literacy working group. Prior to chairing Massachusetts’ early literacy subcommittee, Moriarty pioneered tying budget requests to literacy programs, years before it became common in state policy. A final report incorporating Moriarty’s comprehensive recommendations on early literacy is being adopted by the state’s education department. A lifelong resident of Holyoke, Moriarty also served for 13 years on the city’s School Committee and was instrumental in the formation of the Holyoke Early Literacy Initiative, a community-wide collaborative that focused on increasing the number of students who were proficient in reading by the end of grade 3. He has also been a vocal advocate for arts education. Since 2013, Moriarty has served as executive director of OneHolyoke CDC, a mission-driven nonprofit that believes every resident of Holyoke should live in a dignified home and a safe, attractive neighborhood. Before attending law school, he taught in Holyoke for five years, in subjects including Latin, English, and social studies. As an attorney, he has also taught at Middlesex Community College and Holyoke Community Colleges.

•••••

Linda Chavers

Linda Chavers

Holyoke Community College (HCC) recently welcomed Linda Chavers as the inaugural director of its new office of Restorative Practices and Mediation. A published writer, educator, and consultant, Chavers has spent her career examining structures of institutional inequality and reimagining what justice can look like in the field of education. She brings to HCC a specialization in restorative practices in the workplace, including crisis management, curriculum design, diversity support, and organizational development. Most recently, she has been working as a nonprofit leadership consultant and a national executive search consultant. Prior to that, she spent 15 years in higher education, serving as co-director and English professor at the Clemente Course in the Humanities in Dorchester; resident dean, assistant dean, and lecturer at Harvard College; and assistant professor of Instruction at Temple University in Philadelphia. She also was an instructor of English at Phillips Exeter Academy in Exeter, N.H. Chavers holds a Ph.D. in African and African American studies from Harvard University, a master’s degree in English from Harvard, and a bachelor’s degree in cultural studies from New York University. She began her role at HCC on July 30.

•••••

Kim Lynch

Kim Lynch

Excel Dryer Inc. announced the addition of Kim Lynch as its new director of Marketing, effective Oct. 20. Lynch brings more than 15 years of experience in marketing and advertising across a range of industries, including electrical wholesale, retail, finance, and industrial. She has a proven track record of building and leading high-performing teams, developing strategy-driven campaigns, and strengthening brand visibility across multiple platforms. A graduate of Westfield State University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications and managerial marketing, Lynch offers extensive expertise in marketing technology and analytics tools and platforms. She is also highly skilled in brand management, digital strategy, and creative development. In her new role, Lynch will oversee the development and execution of Excel Dryer’s brand and marketing strategy, support business development initiatives, and continue to elevate the company’s position in the commercial restroom and hand hygiene industry.

•••••

Elena Gervino, senior vice president at Travelers Insurance Co., has been named chair of the Western New England University (WNE) board of trustees. With nearly four decades of experience spanning law, education, and corporate leadership, she brings a combination of strategic insight, operational excellence, and commitment to community impact to her role. A respected leader in the insurance industry, Gervino aims to guide the university’s continued growth and innovation at the intersection of business, technology, and social responsibility. At Travelers, Gervino serves as senior vice president for Claim Shared Services (CSS). A cum laude graduate of the Western New England University School of Law, Gervino served as Notes editor of the Law Review and was named Outstanding Woman Law Student of the Year. Her longtime support as a law school alumna earned her the Dean’s Alumni Excellence Award in 2020. Gervino joined the WNE board of trustees in 2021 and has served on the governance, academic affairs, development, student affairs, investment, and finance committees. In 2025, she received the university’s Benefactors Award in recognition of her commitment to WNE and her exemplary record of leadership. In the community, Gervino has held board positions with Horizons Inc., TRUE Colors, and Nutmeg Big Brothers Big Sisters, advancing opportunities for youth and individuals with disabilities.

Company Notebook

Pittsfield Cooperative Bank Partners with Brown & Brown

PITTSFIELD — Pittsfield Cooperative Bank announced a new partnership with Brown & Brown, one of the nation’s leading insurance brokerages. Together, the two organizations will offer customers and community members throughout the Berkshires access to a wide range of insurance products backed by local service. Unlike national call centers or impersonal online platforms, this partnership brings together two organizations with deep ties to Berkshire County. Brown & Brown’s regional team of insurance professionals live and work in the community, offering local personal attention and providing responsive support. Through this partnership, customers can access comprehensive insurance coverage — including auto, home, umbrella, life, recreational vehicles, commercial property, liability, and organizational employee benefits — delivered with the same personal touch and community commitment that define both organizations.

 

Berkshire Money Management Expands to Williamstown

WILLIAMSTOWN — Berkshire Money Management (BMM), a fixture in the Central and Southern Berkshires, will open a new office at 136 Water St. in Williamstown later this year to better serve clients and neighbors in the Northern Berkshires and Southern Vermont. The move expands BMM’s physical presence across Berkshire County — with offices now in Dalton, Great Barrington, and Williamstown — so clients can meet with their advisors close to home, wherever they live. The Water Street location, just around the corner from Spring Street and the Williams College campus, brings the firm’s financial planning expertise to the heart of Williamstown’s business district. Advisors will begin meeting clients in Williamstown by appointment later this year, with a grand opening planned for early 2026. The building is owned by BMM co-founder and Chief Engagement Officer Stacey Carver, who purchased the property earlier this year.

 

WNE School of Law Launches Online JD Access Program

SPRINGFIELD — Western New England University School of Law announced the launch of JD Access, a part-time evening online juris doctor program designed to expand access to legal education for working professionals, non-traditional students, and individuals whose life circumstances make attending on-campus programs difficult. The first cohort will begin in the fall of 2026. Fully accredited by the American Bar Assoc. (ABA), JD Access is among only about 20 ABA accredited online JD programs nationwide. The program offers an innovative blend of synchronous online classes, asynchronous coursework, and limited in-person residencies, giving students the flexibility to pursue their law degree while balancing work, family, and other commitments. The part-time evening structure is ideal for working professionals, with short, required residencies designed to foster connection and collaboration. The program also provides opportunities for meaningful pro bono and community engagement through the Center for Social Justice at Western New England University. Students can complete the program in three and a half or four years, with optional summer courses available, and the program is open to students across the country, regardless of where they live and work.

 

Westfield State Named Among Top 100 Women-led Businesses

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University has been recognized as one of Massachusetts’ premier women-led businesses. The university earned a spot on the 2025 Top 100 Women-led Businesses list presented annually by the Women’s Edge and the Boston Globe. The winners were honored at an awards ceremony and celebratory breakfast event held on Oct. 24. Key factors in the evaluation of businesses included workplace and management diversity, board makeup, and innovative projects, alongside revenue or operating budget.

 

Bulkley Richardson Named Best Law Firm in 14 Areas

SPRINGFIELD — Best Lawyers, in partnership with U.S. News and World Report, ranked Bulkley Richardson as 2026 Best Law Firm in the Springfield region in the following 14 practice areas: banking and finance law, bankruptcy and creditor debtor rights / insolvency and reorganization law, business organizations (including LLCs and partnerships), commercial litigation, corporate law, criminal defense – general practice, criminal defense – white collar, employment law – individuals, employment law – management, litigation – labor and employment, medical malpractice law – defendants, personal injury litigation – defendants, real estate law, and trusts and estates law. To be eligible for a ranking, a law firm must have at least one lawyer included in the list of Best Lawyers. Bulkley Richardson has 12 lawyers included on the 2026 Best Lawyers list, and Mary Jo Kennedy was named 2026 Springfield-area Lawyer of the Year for both employment law (management) and litigation (labor and employment). Rankings are based on a rigorous evaluation process that includes the collection of client and lawyer evaluations and peer reviews from leading attorneys in the field.

 

Allied Flooring & Budget Cabinets Supports Two Regional Nonprofits

AGAWAM — Allied Flooring & Budget Cabinets announced the results of its second annual Charity Golf Tournament, raising a total of $31,385 to benefit two local nonprofit organizations, Sunshine Village and Project New Hope. In Agawam on Oct. 29, the leadership team presented Sunshine Village with a donation of $15,692.50 to support the organization’s programs for adults with developmental disabilities throughout Western Mass. Then on Oct. 30 in Leominster, they presented the remaining $15,692.50 to Project New Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to providing veterans and their families with support programs, retreats, and community resources designed to help them rebuild their lives after military service. The annual tournament, held in September at Chicopee Country Club, brought together more than 100 golfers, dozens of sponsors, and community partners for a day of friendly competition and fundraising. The event’s success reflects Allied Flooring and Budget Cabinets’ ongoing commitment to supporting local causes and building strong community connections beyond the showroom. Plans are already underway for the third annual Allied Flooring & Budget Cabinets Charity Golf Tournament, with hopes of raising even more funds in 2026.

 

AIC Opens Food Pantry to Combat Student Food Insecurity

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) is helping students facing food insecurity with the launch of the Buzz Stop, a new campus food pantry. According to government data, approximately 3.8 million college students nationwide, or about 23%, face food insecurity. Many do not receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits due to application barriers or lack of awareness. The pantry, located in the Student Affairs office on the upper level of the Schwartz Campus Center, offers both perishable and non-perishable foods as well as basic academic supplies. Students can fill a shopping basket once per week without restrictions, ensuring they have access to essential nutrition while pursuing their studies. Since December 2024, AIC has been preparing an unused office on the upper level of the Schwartz Campus Center to host the Buzz Stop. The renovated space includes shelves stocked with non-perishable items, a refrigerator for perishable foods, and basic academic supplies. Students can find supplies like canned goods, fresh produce, snacks, macaroni and cheese, and more with items available on a rotating inventory. AIC partnered with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts to stock the pantry, with support from an anonymous donor. The college will continue refining the Buzz Stop based on student feedback to ensure it meets evolving needs.

 

Country Bank Makes Back-to-school Donations

WARE — Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Mass., announced its recent donation of $250 Visa gift cards to 44 local schools, totaling $11,000. These schools have been long-standing partners in the bank’s financial literacy initiatives, and this contribution aims to support teachers and students as they head into the new academic year. As part of its continued commitment to financial literacy, Country Bank’s Money School program offers engaging, age-appropriate lessons and resources to help students learn the fundamentals of money management, budgeting, and saving. From classroom sessions to interactive fairs, the program provides real-world financial experiences that make learning fun and practical. Students and families are encouraged to visit any Country Bank location to learn more about Money School and how to get involved. The program’s goal is simple: to help young people develop the knowledge and confidence to make smart financial decisions throughout their lives.

 

Market Mentors Raises $5,000 for Rays of Hope

SPRINGFIELD — Market Mentors, LLC, a fully integrated marketing, advertising, and public relations agency with offices in Massachusetts and Florida, announced it has raised $5,000 for Rays of Hope, the Baystate Health Breast Network initiative supporting breast cancer patients, survivors, and research since 1994. Each October, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the agency creates specially designed items to raise funds and awareness. This year’s featured travel mug delivers the simple, life-saving reminder: “Check them early, check them often.” The campaign reminds men and women alike to take small, proactive steps that can make a big difference in their health.

Since its founding, Rays of Hope has raised more than $17.2 million, with every dollar staying in Western Mass. to fund research, patient care, state-of-the-art equipment, educational programs, and community grants.

 

Bay Path University’s PA Program Reaccredited

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University announced that its physician assistant (PA) program has been awarded a 10-year continuing accreditation from the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, the maximum term granted by the national accrediting body. The 10-year accreditation affirms the program’s sustained commitment to academic excellence, clinical training, and student success. Graduates consistently achieve strong first-time pass rates on the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination and secure employment across a range of healthcare settings. Bay Path’s physician assistant master’s program, launched in 2010, is based at the state-of-the-art Philip H. Ryan Health Science Center in East Longmeadow. The two-year program combines classroom instruction, laboratory experiences, and extensive clinical rotations designed to prepare students for real-world practice. Through a recent partnership with Harvard, students have been able to attend lectures on ways emerging technologies and AI can be applied to patient care. In 2022, the program doubled in size and now admits 60 students per year. As Bay Path’s ongoing integration with Cambridge College continues, the university is exploring opportunities to expand the program and serve new populations of learners through flexible modalities that may include online coursework paired with in-person practicums at its Boston location.

Incorporations

The following business incorporations were recorded in Hampden, Hampshire and Franklin counties and are the latest available. They are listed by community.

AGAWAM

The Happy Teacher Project Corp., 335 Adams St., Agawam, MA 01001. Gabriella Harrison, 600 Suffield St., Agawam, MA 01001. Raises funds for the benefit of teachers and educational staff; partners with businesses and organizations to provide discounts and wellness resources for educators; and promotes and supports the personal and professional well-being of teachers through public events, campaigns, and other activities.

BELCHERTOWN

Friends of the Jewish Cemeteries in Fall River, Massachusetts Corp., 71 South Main St., Belchertown, MA 01007. Allen Juda, 1320 Stonewood Court, Bethlehem, PA 18017. Organization providing financial assistance for the preservation, maintenance, and security of Jewish cemeteries in Fall River.

CHICOPEE

JDMZ Corp., 100 Huntington Ave., Chicopee, MA 01020. Yasirahamed Yaseen, 9612 North Greenwood Ave., Apt. 1A, Des Plaines, IL 60016. Automotive parts and accessories store.

Law Offices of Ann Dargie Gladd, P.C., 10 Center St., Suite 206, Chicopee, MA 01013. Ann Dargie Gladd, 128 Mountainview Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Law practice.

EASTHAMPTON

Wagner Equine Center and Sanctuary Inc., 26 Strong St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Geraldine O’Connor Page, same. Provides a lifelong refuge for horses facing adoption challenges due to age, injury, medical conditions, or behavioral challenges, and offers transformative support to individuals facing physical, mental, and emotional challenges.

FEEDING HILLS

Horeb Media Inc., 10 Gary Place, Apt. C, Feeding Hills, MA 01030. David Reji, same. Religious and Christian media.

GREENFIELD

Wild Heart Ranch Inc., 161 Smead Hill Road, Greenfield, MA 01301. Kelli Richardson, same. Healing center for people to have retreats or coaching sessions with horses as a form of therapy, as well as lessons.

HOLYOKE

Church of Christ the Altar Inc., 92 Suffolk St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Nelly Alvarez, 20 Mobile Home Way, Springfield MA 01119. Place of worship.

Kodagubeans Co. Inc., 14 Montague Road, Leverett, MA 01054. Deep Chinappa, same. Imports whole beans and sells coffee to roasting companies in New England.

LUDLOW

Picariello Consulting Inc., 612 Fuller St., Ludlow, MA 01056. Donald Picariello, same. Sales and marketing of printing products for hospitals.

NORTHAMPTON

Kri & Shree Inc., 80 Main St., Northampton, MA 01060. Mayurkumar Patel, 2 Nautical Way, Douglas, MA 01516. Fast food franchise restaurant.

PITTSFIELD

Aloysius, Butler & Clark Associates Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Paul Pomeroy, same. Full-service marketing agency.

Baesman Group Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Tyler Baesman, same. Printing company.

Cherry St. Boxing Inc., 1625 East St., Pittsfield, MA 01201. Sean Jennings, 18 Church St., Stockbridge, MA 01262. Boxing training and education at introductory, intermediate, and competitive levels; program targets at-risk youth, teaching respect, discipline, boxing fitness, and team and individual competition in a supportive environment.

D&S Coffee Co., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Dolly Mwangi, 100 Cummings Center, Suite 339D, Beverly, MA 01915. Procurement, processing, distribution, and retail sale of coffee products and related goods, including the complementary sourcing and sale of tea products.

JMF Contracting Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. John Finn Jr., same. General construction.

Nord Gear Corp., 82 Wendell Ave., Unit 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Torsten Schultz, same.

United at Home, 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Khanh Bui, same. Home care.

SOUTH DEERFIELD

Red Pine Learning Community Inc., 6 Eastern Ave., South Deerfield, MA 01373. Christopher Caldwell, same. Corporation organized for the purpose of providing regular and supplemental instruction for children enrolled in virtual or homeschool; educational opportunities may also include workshops, events, camps, and day camps.

SPRINGFIELD

Agape, Alpha y Omega Transportation Inc., 61 Ashley St., Springfield, MA 01105. Luis Pena, same. Transportation services.

Birthplace Ballerz Inc., 17 Forest St., Springfield, MA 01108. Gary Bestman, same. Corporation to increase the participation of youths in sports and fitness programs, particularly basketball, globally, through such activities as providing fundamentals, skills, conditioning, competition, discipline, and games for boys and girls.

Prep Connect Health Inc., 268 Washington Blvd., Springfield, MA 01108. Benjamin Bland III, same. Corporation dedicated to advancing public health for LGBTQIA+ individuals across Massachusetts by improving access to accurate, inclusive, and culturally competent sexual health information and services.

SK Community & Family Services Inc., 230 Eastern Ave., Apt. 2L, Springfield, MA 01109. Jourd’henri Eslandie Henriseme, same. Corporation providing charitable and educational services to underserved individuals and families in the Springfield area, including immigration and employment support, résumé preparation, digital skills training, access to public benefits, transportation to appointments, and small business education through e-commerce platforms.

WRL R&R Inc., 272 Worthington St., Springfield, MA 01103. Ryan Kealey, same. Restaurant and lounge serving food and beverages.

WESTFIELD

Better Investment Group Corp., 21 Mainline Dr., Westfield, MA 01085. Viktoria Brennan, same. Real estate brokerage servicing clients.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Anchor Housing Solutions Inc., 268 Cold Spring Ave., Suite B, West Springfield, MA 01089. Michael Rodgers, same. Real estate consulting firm.

Pavel Pavement Maintenance Inc., 70 Windsor St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Michael Crean, 330 Buck Pond Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Pavement maintenance.

WILLIAMSBURG

Two Cents Consultants Inc., 71 Sugar Hill Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096. Jane Loechler, same. Technology and advisory consulting services to nonprofit affordable housing organizations.

DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the months of October and November 2025.

AMHERST

Amherst Mushroom Co. LLC
66 Wentworth Manor Dr.
Sabina Cournoyer

Crossman Properties
664 Main St., #57
Thomas Crossman

Elizabeth Folk
1420 South East St.
Elizabeth Folk

Ernie’s Towing
40 Montague Road
Brian Fournier

Severin Energy Consulting
53 Henry St.
Ryan Severin

Subway
308 College St.
Frank Patel

BELCHERTOWN

Chosen Voice
22 Raymond Dr.
Karen Van Hook

Cold Spring Soapery
180 Bardwell St.
Joyce Douthwright

Mill Hollow Apartments
133 Jabish St.
Hergert Berezin

HADLEY

Barnes & Noble Booksellers
335 Russell St.
Barnes & Noble Inc.

Diversified Equipment Services & Consulting
200 Venture Way
Andrea Bordenca

Flayvors of Cook Farm
129 South Maple St.
Debra Cook

Gardeners Supply Co.
285 Russell St.
Gardens Alive Inc.

 

Sobasko Cordwood
20 Lawrence Plain Road
Tony Sobasko

The Stables
326 Russell St.
Brett Lord

Up to Speed
9 Kennedy Dr.
Robert Kuzmeski

Western Mass Family Golf Center
294 Russell St.
Richard Hollrock

NORTHAMPTON

All-4-U
150 Main St.
Kristie Woodard

Blackbird
27 Pleasant St.
Lauryn Winiarski

Cannabis Culture
26 Strong Ave.
Thomas Little

Clarity Data Services
36 Wilson Ave.
Graham Ridley

Dalco Custom Works
91 North St.
David Collins

Intensive Therapy Retreats
43 Center St., Suite 304
Bambi Rattner

JMAStudio
155 Pleasant St., Apt. 209
Jeffrey Morgan

Maisie Sibbison-Alves, LMT
306 King St.
Maisie Sibbison-Alves

Meadow City Wealth Advisors
196 Pleasant St., Suite 202
John Rhoades

MettaTech
51½ Hatfield St., Apt. 13
Tyler Dowley

Pinch
179 Main St.
Jena Sujat

Ryan Imported Car Repair
3 Brewster Court
Timothy Ryan

Team Link Northampton
141H Damon Road
Thomas Gomes

SOUTHWICK

AJ Precision Inc.
13C Industrial Road
Wade Austin

Elevate Self Care Head Spa
627 College Highway
Sara Costa Dauphinais Auclair

Joe’s New England
3 Reservoir Road
Joseph Stratton

Southwick Computer Services LLC
4 Island Pond Road
Robert Cranston

The Summer House
552 College Highway
Richard Grimaldi, Steven Grimaldi

WESTFIELD

Bright Cloud Studio
102 Elm St., #4
Robert Burch III

Eastern Touch Bodywork
83B Main St.
Cuiying Wang

Pioneer Valley Trading Company Inc.
475 Southampton Road
Michael Albert

Salon Olivine
52 Court St.
Delia Bromley

Salon Thairapy (Mary E)
338 Springdale Road
Mary Wood

WEST SPRINGFIELD

7 Brew Drive Thru Coffee
927 Riverdale St.
7 Brew Drive Thru Coffee

A.T. Home Consulting
112 Lewis Ave.
A.T. Home Consulting

Balboni Associates
67 Stone Path Lane
Balboni Associates

Baldwin Inn & Suites
21 Baldwin St.
Baldwin Inn & Suites

Banaru Electric
122 Heywood Ave.
Banaru Electric

Grosso Chicopractic, P.C.
615 Westfield St.
Grosso Chicopractic, P.C.

Hair by Emma Rose
33 Westfield St.
Hair by Emma Rose

Outback Steakhouse #2218
1537 Riverdale St.
Outback Steakhoyse of Florida LLC

Park Square Realty
470 Westfield St.
PSQ Inc.

PAT Tours
1446 Riverdale St.
Gorecki Enterprises Inc.

Stanley’s Vintage Finds
683 Westfield St.
Stanley’s Vintage Finds

Westside Market
20 River St.
Westside Market

Real Estate

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

FRANKLIN COUNTY

ASHFIELD

688 Bear Swamp Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $635,000
Buyer: Jordan Friede
Seller: Daniel K. Lederer
Date: 10/10/25

1450 West Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $457,000
Buyer: Daniel T. Butler
Seller: Lynn R. Dole
Date: 10/10/25

BERNARDSTON

390 Bald Mountain Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Zain Naveed
Seller: John W. Graves
Date: 10/10/25

55 Keets Brook Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Peter Harrington
Seller: Bmfn LLC
Date: 10/10/25

60 Keets Brook Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Peter Harrington
Seller: Bmfn LLC
Date: 10/10/25

BUCKLAND

1 Bray Road
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Nawontah Waters
Seller: Robert D. March
Date: 10/15/25

COLRAIN

Adamsville Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Mass. Audubon Society Inc.
Seller: Entrust Admin Inc.
Date: 10/23/25

111 South Green River Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $503,000
Buyer: Rebecca Koganer
Seller: Deborah R. Rosienski
Date: 10/17/25

DEERFIELD

29 River Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $687,500
Buyer: John E. Delmolino
Seller: J2K Realty LLC
Date: 10/20/25

44 Thayer St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Kathryn S. Hanning
Seller: Saunders N. Whittlesey
Date: 10/14/25

43 Whately Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: 43 Whatley Road LLC
Seller: R. Sitterly LLC
Date: 10/10/25

51 Whately Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $1,950,000
Buyer: 43 Whatley Road LLC
Seller: R. Sitterly LLC
Date: 10/10/25

ERVING

21 French King Hwy.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $293,815
Buyer: Maxwell Dischler
Seller: Casey M. Dyer
Date: 10/21/25

GILL

7 Riverview Dr.
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Marek Tresnak
Seller: MW & MW Realty
Date: 10/10/25

GREENFIELD

707 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Kathleen F. Murtland
Seller: Charlene D. Martin
Date: 10/17/25

38 Butternut St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: 38 Butternut LLC
Date: 10/10/25

52 Canada Hill
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $180,100
Buyer: BHO Realty LLC
Seller: Sandra R. Brodie
Date: 10/17/25

260-1/2 Davis St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Karla B. Quintanilla
Seller: Emily S. Greene
Date: 10/10/25

312 Federal St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $1,347,000
Buyer: Phoenix GF LLC
Seller: Lorenz Family LLC
Date: 10/14/25

20 James St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: John Polak
Seller: George S. Briggs
Date: 10/21/25

2 Mead St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Fret Mill LLC
Seller: Historic Factories LLC
Date: 10/15/25

44 Russell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Brian M. Hillard
Seller: Michael A. Biskerski
Date: 10/10/25

104 Wildwood Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $347,500
Buyer: Leah Dion
Seller: Sandra P. Smith
Date: 10/10/25

HEATH

Colrain Stage Road
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Mass. Audubon Society Inc.
Seller: Entrust Admin Inc.
Date: 10/23/25

93 Colrain Stage Road
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Yevgeniy Yefimov
Seller: David J. Travers
Date: 10/10/25

Hosmer Road
Heath, MA 01346
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Mass. Audubon Society Inc.
Seller: Entrust Admin Inc.
Date: 10/23/25

LEYDEN

521 West Leyden Road
Leyden, MA 01337
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Timothy Shuipis
Seller: David B. Capparrille
Date: 10/16/25

533 West Leyden Road
Leyden, MA 01337
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Timothy Shuipis
Seller: David B. Capparrille
Date: 10/16/25

MONTAGUE

3 Bridge St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $431,000
Buyer: M. & D. Rainbow
Seller: Northern Enterprises LLC
Date: 10/23/25

20 Dunton St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Suzanne M. Hale
Seller: Sherry L. Debarge
Date: 10/14/25

NEW SALEM

144 Neilson Road
New Salem, MA 01355
Amount: $421,060
Buyer: Benjamin L. Sandri
Seller: Ciji Cody
Date: 10/17/25

ORANGE

77 Daniel Shays Hwy.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Walter Ferreira
Seller: Craig Ballou
Date: 10/10/25

61 East Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $398,500
Buyer: Monica D. Knight
Seller: Joshua T. Behrens
Date: 10/14/25

111 Hayden St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $303,000
Buyer: Nancy Roussell
Seller: Keith R. Lapan
Date: 10/16/25

78-80 High St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Shf Properties LLC
Seller: Sandra Warren
Date: 10/16/25

900 North Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $176,467
Buyer: Megliola Realty LLC
Seller: Phillip E. Miller
Date: 10/14/25

SHELBURNE

48 Mechanic St.
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $658,500
Buyer: Karen Remmler
Seller: Eben D. Sorkin
Date: 10/16/25

175 Peckville Road
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Christian Parenti
Seller: William H. Stafford INT
Date: 10/10/25

SUNDERLAND

61 South Plain Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Michael Shanahan
Seller: Margaret L. Gutman
Date: 10/14/25

324 South Silver Lane
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Mariana Chilton
Seller: Barbara A. Salamone TR
Date: 10/20/25

WARWICK

37 Smith Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Craig Tourigny
Seller: Jose M. Bovio
Date: 10/10/25

Winchester Road
Warwick, MA 01364
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: San-Ken Homes Inc.
Seller: Myril A. Neiman RET 2006
Date: 10/20/25

WHATELY

114 Christian Lane
Whately, MA 01373
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Joseph Saladino
Seller: Amanda L. Brooks
Date: 10/17/25

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

51 Bradford Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Jenna M. Lavrenchuk
Seller: No Limit Assets LLC
Date: 10/10/25

41 Channell Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Sarah Cannamela
Seller: Aldo Properties LLC
Date: 10/10/25

19 Church St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Flipped & Finished LLC
Seller: Naples Home Buyers TR
Date: 10/17/25

26 Dutchmaster Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Victoria Egan
Seller: Paul K. Laviolette
Date: 10/14/25

60 Edward St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Orhan Ahmeti
Seller: Jason M. Douthwright
Date: 10/10/25

19 Harding St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Maria Webster
Seller: Nadia Grushetskiy
Date: 10/10/25

489 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Susan E. Jenney
Seller: David P. Jenney
Date: 10/10/25

67 Suffield St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Gladys Provost
Seller: Shelby Texeira
Date: 10/15/25

BRIMFIELD

50 John Haley Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Beau X. Boudreau
Seller: Theresa M. Muska
Date: 10/14/25

CHESTER

97 Old State Hwy.
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: James D. Adams
Seller: Perennial Flow LLC
Date: 10/15/25

CHICOPEE

25 Andover Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $347,500
Buyer: Susan L. Arcisz
Seller: William K. Malone
Date: 10/15/25

441 Britton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Matthew Jensen
Seller: Joyce L. Duquette
Date: 10/22/25

62 Charpentier Blvd.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $293,800
Buyer: Steven Caraballo
Seller: Andre Savoie
Date: 10/10/25

125 Chateaugay St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Phoebe Deprey
Seller: Badria A. Hanna
Date: 10/20/25

127 Cyman Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Emi Investments LLC
Seller: Alexandra A. Beeler
Date: 10/17/25

19 Dale Court
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Joshua Ortiz
Seller: Peter L. Soldato Jr. RET
Date: 10/17/25

21 Depot St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $227,777
Buyer: Mazal Real Estate LLC
Seller: Winners O LLC
Date: 10/10/25

70 Empire St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Rita H. Acevedo
Seller: Pamela J. Bucalo
Date: 10/17/25

637 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $825,000
Buyer: Chicopee Electric Light
Seller: 637 Front Street LLC
Date: 10/20/25

676 Front St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: 676 Front Street LLC
Seller: Szczebak, Geraldine S., (Estate)
Date: 10/17/25

20 Gilbert Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Natalie A. Escalera
Seller: Michelle Paneto
Date: 10/14/25

40 Greenwich St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $303,000
Buyer: Karina Rodriguez
Seller: Alyson M. Flahive
Date: 10/17/25

46 Guerin St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Kellie A. Serrao
Seller: 539 Lancaster St. Realty LLC
Date: 10/10/25

248 Hampden St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Veteran Stan LLC
Seller: Gladys Provost
Date: 10/15/25

27 Janine St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: John D. Griffin
Date: 10/14/25

36 Lapa Farm Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Eric Dorn
Seller: Dunigan, Bruce C., (Estate)
Date: 10/15/25

29 Lester St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $313,323
Buyer: Kaitlyn Peterson
Seller: Jill A. Lueb
Date: 10/22/25

664 McKinstry Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Prossy Drinkwine
Seller: Christopher Nascembini
Date: 10/14/25

1709 Memorial Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: R. & R. Home Improvement
Seller: Arpc LLC
Date: 10/14/25

16 Monroe St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: MC Nest Properties LLC
Seller: Nancy M. Kubetin
Date: 10/21/25

183 Olko Circle
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Zachary P. St Laurent
Seller: St. Laurent, Elizabeth, (Estate)
Date: 10/22/25

110 Roosevelt Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Andrew Barnard
Seller: Jason W. Hurley
Date: 10/17/25

6 Stockbridge St.
Chicopee, MA 01103
Amount: $565,529
Buyer: David J. Letasz
Seller: Waycon Inc.
Date: 10/20/25

1697 Westover Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: West Jam Man LLC
Seller: Sylvia Burns
Date: 10/17/25

104 Wheatland Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $313,500
Buyer: Mohammed Al Bayati
Seller: Joanne Cebula
Date: 10/21/25

68 Woodcrest Court
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $407,000
Buyer: Iolanda Arocho
Seller: Justin S. Simonich
Date: 10/10/25

EAST LONGMEADOW

76 Alpine Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Michael B. Fenney
Seller: Michael Carabetta
Date: 10/17/25

152 Brookhaven Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Jpmt Realty LLC
Seller: Tom Makris
Date: 10/16/25

158 Elm St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $201,000
Buyer: Marc Dulaimy
Seller: Tashjian, Armen, (Estate)
Date: 10/14/25

57 Marci Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Marc J. Riccio
Seller: George L. George
Date: 10/15/25

20 Maynard St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Matthew D. Wiklund
Seller: Marc J. Riccio
Date: 10/15/25

21-23 North Main St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Colvest & East Longmeadow
Seller: Pride Operating LLC
Date: 10/21/25

383 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Andrew T. McAlary
Seller: Timothy J. Carlin
Date: 10/10/25

GRANVILLE

23 Dickinson Dr.
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Roger Bruso
Seller: Michael Hooben
Date: 10/16/25

HAMPDEN

43 Colony Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Samuel Murtaugh
Seller: Lisa A. Millett
Date: 10/10/25

19 Deerfield Circle
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $439,900
Buyer: Sandra M. Turgeon
Seller: Peter E. Miccoli
Date: 10/17/25

8 Evergreen Ter.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $484,450
Buyer: Anthony S. Campbell
Seller: Joseph Rescia
Date: 10/22/25

279 North Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $417,500
Buyer: Shelly Warren
Seller: Philip J. Lord
Date: 10/16/25

HOLLAND

10 Brandon St.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Daniel F. Consolati
Seller: Kevin F. Bard
Date: 10/16/25

35 Island Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Joseph A. Cavanaugh
Seller: Bradley T. Spink
Date: 10/17/25

71 North Wales Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $369,900
Buyer: Brandon Hart
Seller: Christine J. Catt
Date: 10/16/25

7 Sheila Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Cassidy Horner
Seller: Beau X. Boudreau
Date: 10/10/25

77 Vinton Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Mitchell Harter
Seller: Dan Mason
Date: 10/21/25

108 Wales Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Daniel R. Carr
Seller: Daniel D. Carr
Date: 10/15/25

88 Wales Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $377,000
Buyer: Heather Davis
Seller: Stephen A. Kavorkian
Date: 10/15/25

HOLYOKE

43 Bemis Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Marie A. Schlosstein
Seller: Jeremiah J. Mullane
Date: 10/14/25

29-31 Brown Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Juan J. Pizha
Seller: Stanwich Mortgage Loan
Date: 10/10/25

141 Dartmouth St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $387,000
Buyer: Patrick Beaudry
Seller: Eamon L. Stevenson
Date: 10/23/25

21 Hillview Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Ali S. Okatan
Seller: Nuriye Kartal
Date: 10/17/25

22 Lexington Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $555,000
Buyer: Ralph A. Simpson
Seller: Diane G. Martel
Date: 10/20/25

20 Longfellow Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Dreampath Homebuyers LLC
Seller: Burton S. Resnic
Date: 10/22/25

16 Meadowview Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Devin Colon-Grenier
Seller: Grant T. Schlosstein
Date: 10/14/25

89 Meadowbrook Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Keri Padua
Seller: Champagne, Joan C., (Estate)
Date: 10/23/25

641 Northampton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Salim Abdoo
Seller: Luchini, Jr Louis J., (Estate)
Date: 10/23/25

14 Scott Hollow Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Chad Finley
Seller: Dorota M. Garncarz
Date: 10/10/25

LONGMEADOW

15 Berwick Ter.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Jackson T. Kleintz
Seller: Anthony Gandelli
Date: 10/15/25

41 Dennis Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $1,070,000
Buyer: Eduardo R. Nunez
Seller: Fabricio Ochoa
Date: 10/14/25

595 Laurel St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Ayush Garg
Seller: William K. Cargill
Date: 10/22/25

124 Longfellow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Mason F. Rapaport
Seller: Song Zhang
Date: 10/15/25

77 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Harold D. Gray
Seller: Cynthia L. Kesterke
Date: 10/20/25

26 White Oaks Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Dle Properties TR
Seller: Lorraine M. Slepski
Date: 10/10/25

LUDLOW

558 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Ronald Tomlin
Seller: Scot P. Padgett
Date: 10/16/25

78 Aldo Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $387,400
Buyer: Jennifer McCarthy
Seller: Dennis H. Bunten
Date: 10/17/25

34 Briarwood Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $388,000
Buyer: Trevor J. Lewicki
Seller: Lori A. Lewicki
Date: 10/10/25

Center St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: S. & C. Investors LLC
Seller: Town Of Ludlow
Date: 10/14/25

68 Fairview St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Morales Real Estate Solutions LLC
Seller: Naples Home Buyer TR
Date: 10/14/25

62 Norwich Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Delary Jeantys
Seller: Janice P. Cameron 2015 FT
Date: 10/16/25

194 Pine St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Anita Patrie
Seller: Mare-Lene Properties NT
Date: 10/14/25

MONSON

138 Brimfield Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Ryan M. Fay
Seller: Jerry R. Degon
Date: 10/14/25

32 Bunyan Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Jeremy Vargas-Percy
Seller: Carole Singh
Date: 10/15/25

211 Butler Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Michael Cain
Seller: Mountain House Properties LLC
Date: 10/10/25

164 Wales Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $501,535
Buyer: Hannah J. Niemiec
Seller: Kevin M. Brown
Date: 10/23/25

MONTGOMERY

11 Old Main Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $155,334
Buyer: Kathy A. Lee
Seller: Jeffrey C. Lee
Date: 10/15/25

PALMER

2010 Bridge St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Albert D. Mendelsohn
Seller: Karen M. Krohn
Date: 10/16/25

10 Forest St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $444,900
Buyer: Joshua Banas
Seller: Lynne W. Rahim RET
Date: 10/14/25

16 Old Farm Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Conor O. Flynn
Seller: Dolores M. Elkas
Date: 10/15/25

SPRINGFIELD

245 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $293,000
Buyer: Elizabeth S. Motta
Seller: Dinessa Rodriguez
Date: 10/17/25

36 Ames St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $533,500
Buyer: GT2l Saint Real Estate LLC
Seller: Joao A. Dias
Date: 10/16/25

44-48 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Diomedes B. Suarez
Seller: Opus Durum LLC
Date: 10/16/25

30 Beauchamp St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $289,000
Buyer: Kimberly Rueda
Seller: Daniel M. Triggs
Date: 10/20/25

299 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Camille Royal
Seller: 299 Belmont LLC
Date: 10/17/25

467-469 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Nalani Capital 3 LLC
Seller: Lyons, Charles Rogers, (Estate)
Date: 10/15/25

189 Bowles Park
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Alyson Flahive
Seller: Benjamin R. Torres
Date: 10/17/25

106-108 Breckwood Circle
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $229,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Granger, Gordon R., (Estate)
Date: 10/20/25

93 Bristol St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Anastasia Acevedo
Seller: Jjj17 LLC
Date: 10/17/25

68-70 Cambridge St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Jjj17 LLC
Seller: Pfgc LLC
Date: 10/10/25

34 Castle St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Emtay Inc.
Seller: Debra Craig
Date: 10/15/25

175 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Bar Belmont LLC
Seller: Eleanor Chestnut Realty LLC
Date: 10/14/25

186-192 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Bar Belmont LLC
Seller: Bruce Wright Group LLC
Date: 10/10/25

56 Clayton St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Gina Beau-Prince
Seller: Nancy Garcia
Date: 10/17/25

150 Cloran St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $328,000
Buyer: Merna Ivey
Seller: Genevieve Construction
Date: 10/10/25

137 Cobb St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Clx Real Estate LLC
Seller: Falynne P. Correia
Date: 10/15/25

135 College St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Rosemeire A. Dos Santos
Seller: Yenit Degracia
Date: 10/21/25

435 Dwight St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $6,500,000
Buyer: Bar Belmont LLC
Seller: Dwight Taylor Realty NT
Date: 10/10/25

64-66 East Bay Path Ter.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Monica Kuku
Seller: Phantom Holdings LLC
Date: 10/15/25

64-66 East Bay Path Ter.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Monica Kuku
Seller: Phantom Holdings LLC
Date: 10/22/25

240 El Paso St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $276,000
Buyer: Anthony Baumann
Seller: Justin D. Gillette
Date: 10/20/25

19 Eldert St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Maderose LLC
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 10/20/25

144 Euclid Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: 144 Euclid LLC
Seller: Emtay Inc.
Date: 10/10/25

71 Fairfield St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Fefabo Management LLC
Seller: Rice, Joan L., (Estate)
Date: 10/23/25

31 Fallston St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $322,500
Buyer: Joseph P. Albano
Seller: Samuel E. Gledhill
Date: 10/20/25

45 Fenimore Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Nadine A. Thomas
Seller: Kimberly A. Douglas
Date: 10/14/25

87 Fenwick St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Heather S. Guadeloupe
Date: 10/14/25

116 Fort Pleasant Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $660,000
Buyer: RR2 LLC
Seller: Afimi LLC
Date: 10/17/25

44 Frontenac St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $183,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Sterling Sprague
Date: 10/17/25

47 Garfield St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $483,460
Buyer: Meredith Lemasurier
Seller: Stefan Hagmann
Date: 10/14/25

93 Garfield St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Luz A. Devasquez
Seller: Corina Young
Date: 10/10/25

58 Gilman St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $271,500
Buyer: Gabriel A. Santana
Seller: Orange Park Mgmt. LLC
Date: 10/15/25

19 Harbour Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Nicholas Albert
Seller: Kaitlyn Bouffard
Date: 10/10/25

396 Hermitage Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Christopher J. Marion
Seller: Nicholas, Dorothy D., (Estate)
Date: 10/20/25

71 Hilltop St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Cesar H. Puente
Seller: Pedro Aguirre
Date: 10/20/25

141 Hood St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Hummad Ijaz
Seller: Washington Sr., Elijah, (Estate)
Date: 10/23/25

17 Jeanne Marie St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Family & Developments LLC
Seller: Rita M. McAloon
Date: 10/21/25

116-118 Johnson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Luis A. Mercado
Seller: Anthony Gibbs
Date: 10/23/25

7-11 Kelly Place
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $533,500
Buyer: GT2l Saint Real Estate LLC
Seller: Joao A. Dias
Date: 10/16/25

61 Kimberly Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Ana L. Franco
Seller: J. R. Hernandez-Bermudez
Date: 10/22/25

191 Laconia St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $195,000
Buyer: Veteran Stan LLC
Seller: Victor English
Date: 10/22/25

187 Lamont St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Kokoleka RT
Seller: Eddie L. Hosey
Date: 10/16/25

52 Luden St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $298,000
Buyer: Jenna Jackson
Seller: Anna Cardaropli
Date: 10/15/25

101-103 Lyman St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Bar Belmont LLC
Seller: Bruce Wright Group LLC
Date: 10/10/25

127 Lyman St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Bar Belmont LLC
Seller: Bruce Wright Group LLC
Date: 10/10/25

130-134 Lyman St.
Springfield, MA 01103
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: Bar Belmont LLC
Seller: Bruce Wright Group LLC
Date: 10/10/25

254-256 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $760,000
Buyer: RG Main & Oak LLC
Seller: Rafael A. Martinez
Date: 10/10/25

67 Manhattan St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Glenroy A. Henry
Seller: Rita L. Banks
Date: 10/21/25

181 Marsden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $196,000
Buyer: Douglas Dichard
Seller: Jean-Marcell Pollock
Date: 10/22/25

212 Marsden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Janice Lawes
Seller: Saje Home Services LLC
Date: 10/17/25

88 Meadow St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Nancy Garcia
Seller: Jessica Morales
Date: 10/17/25

22-24 Medford St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Shafiqul Islam
Seller: Sergey Dikan
Date: 10/23/25

41 Nevada St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Lance Hamilton
Seller: Susan L. Guterl
Date: 10/15/25

179 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $215,250
Buyer: Joseph L. Selevitch
Seller: Cwbs Instrument Of Redemption
Date: 10/15/25

81 Oak Hollow Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Ralitsa Gencheva
Seller: Samuel A. Smith
Date: 10/23/25

371-373 Oakland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Terry Dinh
Date: 10/17/25

423-425 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Albertina Ozor
Seller: 423-425 Parker Street TR
Date: 10/10/25

1130 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Zulma Colon
Seller: Freedom Parker LLC
Date: 10/23/25

580 Plainfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Myhozotys Balbuena
Seller: Bmo Real Estate LLC
Date: 10/23/25

26 Portulaca Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Manuel A. Santiago
Seller: Unlimited Property Services LLC
Date: 10/16/25

61 Russell St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Arnoldo W. Gallardo
Seller: Theresa M. Rice
Date: 10/15/25

184 Russell St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Lynn Pineda
Seller: Lenora V. Johnson
Date: 10/20/25

19 Ruthven St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Antonio Lewis
Seller: Donna M. Padilla
Date: 10/22/25

124 Sierra Vista Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Audrey L. Safford
Seller: Williams, Claire L., (Estate)
Date: 10/16/25

42-44 Somerset St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Johnathan Salas
Seller: Javier Hernandez
Date: 10/16/25

11 Spruce St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Rodney Vazquez
Seller: Maritza Crespo
Date: 10/20/25

7 Turner St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Anthony Dickerson
Seller: Kaitlyn Peterson
Date: 10/22/25

140 Wait St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jonathan Hafer
Seller: Jason Pagan
Date: 10/10/25

62 Wayside St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Roman Long
Seller: Ralph F. Hess
Date: 10/20/25

80 West Alvord St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Panther Development
Seller: Round 2 LLC
Date: 10/22/25

603 Wilbraham Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $1,100,000
Buyer: 5 Star Wilbraham Realty LLC
Seller: Zahoor U. Haq
Date: 10/20/25

871-873 Worthington St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Brian Cruz
Seller: Mass Housing Connect Inc.
Date: 10/23/25

TOLLAND

1259 East Otis Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Cole W. Hathaway
Seller: Daniel Getman
Date: 10/17/25

277 Owls Nest Lane
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Richard Duffy
Seller: Joseph F. Dempsey
Date: 10/17/25

64 Porcupine Point Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $649,900
Buyer: Charles H. Keller
Seller: Dorothy Nicoletti
Date: 10/14/25

68 Porcupine Point Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $363,000
Buyer: Yong J. No
Seller: Michael Seich
Date: 10/17/25

WALES

6 Haynes Hill Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $222,500
Buyer: Naples Home Buyes TR
Seller: Ernest J. Bertothy
Date: 10/15/25

17 Union Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: William Jacob
Seller: Brian M. Haraghey
Date: 10/16/25

WESTFIELD

53 Bristol St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Vladislav Biley
Seller: Evelyn D. Casey
Date: 10/10/25

15 Central St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Jessica E. Wright
Seller: Advent Christian Church
Date: 10/22/25

8 Cherry St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $464,900
Buyer: Ralph Santaniello
Seller: Velapartment Rentals LLC
Date: 10/16/25

9 Crown St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $356,000
Buyer: Sergey Ovechkin
Seller: Joshua C. Cyr
Date: 10/20/25

151 Franklin St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Douglas Thayer
Seller: Ernest Rental LLC
Date: 10/17/25

16 Glen Ridge Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Joseph Crevier
Seller: Heather White
Date: 10/10/25

44 Governor Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $378,500
Buyer: Judith Stolfo
Seller: Tok Chang
Date: 10/20/25

99 Hillcrest Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $557,500
Buyer: Heather L. White
Seller: Angelique L. Cadieux
Date: 10/10/25

57 Jessie Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Michael Hooben
Seller: Patricia Bell
Date: 10/16/25

15 Laro Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Ryan Simmitt
Seller: Francis B. Marsh
Date: 10/14/25

48 Murray Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $286,000
Buyer: George A. Poulopoulos
Seller: Melissa M. Ostrander
Date: 10/17/25

89 Northwest Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Timothy V. Flouton
Seller: Eileen Adams
Date: 10/22/25

3 Norton St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Derek K. Piquette
Seller: D. & A. Investments LLC
Date: 10/22/25

72-74 Notre Dame St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $404,300
Buyer: Travis Searles
Seller: Swaffer TR
Date: 10/22/25

16 Spruce St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $432,000
Buyer: Lisa R. Frances
Seller: Melissa K. Lavimoniere
Date: 10/10/25

128 Skyline Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Aaron Brodeur
Seller: Lawrence J. Carnes
Date: 10/21/25

126 Western Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Lori Taylor
Seller: Joan H. Corell TR
Date: 10/17/25

WILBRAHAM

31 Brooklawn Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $538,000
Buyer: Ralph F. Hess
Seller: Anita E. Richard
Date: 10/15/25

37 Brookside Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Caitlin Phelps
Seller: Rene A. Romero
Date: 10/14/25

7 Decorie Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Richard F. Loud
Seller: Alyn Coler
Date: 10/22/25

4 Highmoor Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $561,000
Buyer: April B. Robinson
Seller: Smith, Barbara J., (Estate)
Date: 10/10/25

5 Hilltop Park
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $1,035,000
Buyer: Marissa P. Contreras
Seller: Kimberly A. Spock TR
Date: 10/20/25

21 Hunting Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Olivia G. Fernandes
Seller: Jeffrey Webb
Date: 10/14/25

16 Jewell Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $391,000
Buyer: Raymond J. Crooks
Seller: Stark FT
Date: 10/23/25

103 Main St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Hazel Zebian
Seller: Steven M. Harper
Date: 10/20/25

1 Manor Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Danielle Lo
Seller: Julie A. Russell
Date: 10/17/25

8 Meadowview Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $429,900
Buyer: Kathryn Fischman
Seller: Michael J. Stirlacci
Date: 10/14/25

505 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Kara Rice
Seller: Positive Spin Real Estate Investors Inc.
Date: 10/10/25

10 Primrose Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $372,000
Buyer: Meghan K. Safford
Seller: Chantal Bernard
Date: 10/23/25

2 Stirrup Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $660,000
Buyer: Iqra Vohra
Seller: Samson H. Hanka
Date: 10/17/25

1 Sunset Rock Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Christopher Krupczak
Seller: Richard F. Loud
Date: 10/22/25

WEST SPRINGFIELD

45 Autumn Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Lisa M. Cosgrove
Seller: Dean J. Martilli
Date: 10/10/25

123 Belknap Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Dominic Florence
Seller: Tara M. Torino
Date: 10/16/25

55 Bliss St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $594,000
Buyer: Ibrahim S. Kilic
Seller: Nikulin FT
Date: 10/10/25

77 Bowers St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $378,000
Buyer: Julissa Muniz
Seller: Nostin, Thomas J., (Estate)
Date: 10/10/25

51 Craiwell Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Sandra Brodeur
Seller: Moira F. Centracchio
Date: 10/14/25

30 Day St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Abduallah A. Murad
Seller: Leena T. Rahmat
Date: 10/22/25

45 Elm Circle
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Danielle Maynard
Seller: Jennifer A. O’Connor
Date: 10/14/25

40 Hampden St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $235,620
Buyer: Alejandro Ruiz-Bocanegra
Seller: Paddock, Eleanor S., (Estate)
Date: 10/22/25

103 Hillcrest Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Silvia D. Dejeronimo
Seller: James R. Keddy
Date: 10/15/25

Hyde Road, Lot 3
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $168,000
Buyer: Nadia Baraban
Seller: Peter Novik
Date: 10/23/25

69 Lancaster Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Hunter Sarnelli
Seller: Lane Contracting Co. LLC
Date: 10/21/25

132 Lincoln St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: JoeJoe Properties LLC
Seller: Angel Mathews
Date: 10/17/25

22 Maple Ter.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Mario D. Fairweather
Seller: Haskell Holdings LLC
Date: 10/10/25

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

1 Chestnut Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $554,000
Buyer: Lawrence Lacombe
Seller: Robert C. Lattanzi
Date: 10/15/25

61 East Hadley Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $331,822
Buyer: Toorak Capital Partners LLC
Seller: Nextres LLC
Date: 10/20/25

287 Federal St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $379,900
Buyer: Chelsea Cooke
Seller: Dexter J. Labonte
Date: 10/10/25

53 Henry St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Ryan Severin
Seller: Christine R. Acker
Date: 10/20/25

112 Leverett Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Hao Huang
Seller: Thais Moulin
Date: 10/23/25

BELCHERTOWN

340 Allen Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Hallie M. Robertson
Seller: Mark T. Maghini
Date: 10/17/25

4 Metacomet Circle
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Marcus P. Lafountain
Seller: Fumi Realty Inc.
Date: 10/10/25

17 Metacomet St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Joelle A. Michigan
Seller: Ann L. Tabb
Date: 10/15/25

74 Sabin St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Lauren Parlapiano
Seller: Audrey L. Safford
Date: 10/16/25

Spring Hill Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Brad M. Dimiero
Seller: Richard M. Gold
Date: 10/23/25

CUMMINGTON

69 Cole St.
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $710,000
Buyer: Edward J. Dobkowski
Seller: Susan M. Teasley
Date: 10/20/25

EASTHAMPTON

23 John St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Skylah Colon
Seller: Joshua Freniere
Date: 10/17/25

5 Morin Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $273,766
Buyer: Rcaf Acquisiion TR
Seller: Charles Adams
Date: 10/15/25

172-R Pleasant St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $9,750,000
Buyer: Easthampton Mill 180 LLC
Seller: Interland Real Estate LLC
Date: 10/17/25

180 Pleasant St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $9,750,000
Buyer: Easthampton Mill 180 LLC
Seller: Interland Real Estate LLC
Date: 10/17/25

16 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Michael K. Lalak
Seller: Hikari Mamata
Date: 10/10/25

14-16 Searle Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Coreen Stevens
Seller: Valerie J. Stevens
Date: 10/20/25

GOSHEN

95 Ball Road
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Jessica Emmonds
Seller: Linda A. Sbrega
Date: 10/15/25

GRANBY

Carver St., Lot 1
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Glenn Goulet
Seller: J. L. N. Properties LLC
Date: 10/17/25

Carver St., Lot 2
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Glenn Goulet
Seller: J. L. N. Properties LLC
Date: 10/17/25

Carver St., Lot 4
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Glenn Goulet
Seller: J. L. N. Properties LLC
Date: 10/17/25

2 Circle Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Anna Kierkla
Seller: Chocorua Construction LLC
Date: 10/22/25

16 Jennifer Dr.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Susan M. Teasley
Seller: Gregory K. Hurley
Date: 10/20/25

HADLEY

10 Bristol Lane
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Jacquelin Sordillo RET
Seller: W. & Rosemary M. Skiba IRT
Date: 10/10/25

20 North Maple St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $9,500,000
Buyer: RW North Massistant
Seller: Elaine Manor LP
Date: 10/10/25

2 Nikkis Way
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $1,015,000
Buyer: Chang Liu
Seller: Firefly Vacation Home LLC
Date: 10/15/25

86 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $517,500
Buyer: Alinas Real Estate LLC
Seller: William C. Podolak
Date: 10/23/25

88 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $517,500
Buyer: Alinas Real Estate LLC
Seller: William C. Podolak
Date: 10/23/25

HATFIELD

46 North St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $618,500
Buyer: Andrew B. Perry
Seller: Joanne Chan
Date: 10/16/25

22 Pantry Road
Hatfield, MA 01088
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: 22 Pantry Road TR
Seller: Hannah E. Zahn
Date: 10/22/25

353 West St.
Hatfield, MA 01066
Amount: $464,000
Buyer: 119 Real Estate LLC
Seller: Shirley Skorupski
Date: 10/15/25

MIDDLEFIELD

120 River Road
Middlefield, MA 01243
Amount: $339,000
Buyer: Molly Laflesh
Seller: Brush FT
Date: 10/14/25

NORTHAMPTON

811 Burts Pit Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $665,000
Buyer: Amble W. Ryan
Seller: Sunwood Development Corp.
Date: 10/16/25

71 Forest Glen Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Adam K. Komosinski
Seller: Haynes, Christopher A., (Estate)
Date: 10/14/25

183 Grove St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $830,000
Buyer: Missy Ehrgood
Seller: Ajna Maric
Date: 10/10/25

51 Harrison Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,440,000
Buyer: Hannah P. Galay
Seller: Joan N. Berzoff RET
Date: 10/17/25

53 Harrison Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,200,000
Buyer: W. & Allison V. Brewer RET
Seller: Seth M. Shulman
Date: 10/10/25

35 Hillcrest Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $1,200,000
Buyer: Stephen M. Tirrell RET
Seller: Karen C. Hogan
Date: 10/15/25

163 Main St.
Northampton, MA 01053
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Jason L. Johnson
Seller: Erin M. Mahon-Moore
Date: 10/22/25

PELHAM

58 Daniel Shays Hwy.
Pelham, MA 01007
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Shayne Burke
Seller: Michelle Murray
Date: 10/16/25

PLAINFIELD

91 Summit St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $223,500
Buyer: Mia Zoino
Seller: Steven Nartowicz
Date: 10/16/25

West Main St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Ma Audubon Society Inc.
Seller: Cullen NT
Date: 10/16/25

SOUTH HADLEY

341 East St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $335,200
Buyer: Richard Veltman
Seller: Chateauneuf, Lucille J., (Estate)
Date: 10/14/25

10 Easy St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Robyn Robitaille
Seller: William Joniec
Date: 10/10/25

28 Hillside Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Michael L. Williams
Seller: Lewis, Richard Ennever, (Estate)
Date: 10/10/25

7 Hunter Ter.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Steven Pelletier
Seller: 2 Black Cats LLC
Date: 10/10/25

49 North Main St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $515,000
Buyer: Coutures Mgmt. Corp. Inc.
Seller: Todd Grover
Date: 10/17/25

3 Ralph Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Zulma D. De Aguilar
Seller: Anthony Traiforos
Date: 10/22/25

2 Silverwood Ter.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Jessica S. Dubois
Seller: Steven R. Pelletier
Date: 10/10/25

40 Spring St., Ext.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $153,300
Buyer: Lcr Builders LLC
Seller: Polly A. Vauhgn
Date: 10/14/25

18 Sunset Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Shana A. Wallace
Seller: Nora H. Viets
Date: 10/21/25

SOUTHAMPTON

43 Pomeroy Meadow Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $665,000
Buyer: Megan Creighton
Seller: R. B. & Johna L. Merritt FT
Date: 10/15/25

WARE

22 Berkshire Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $426,000
Buyer: Paul R. Valley
Seller: Susanna L. Lewis TR
Date: 10/17/25

9 Cottage St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Hoa Le
Seller: Sharafat Khan
Date: 10/15/25

35-37 High St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Guivens Andre
Seller: Mabel Rivas
Date: 10/20/25

27 Old Poor Farm Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $690,000
Buyer: Emmett A. Bumpus
Seller: Thomas R. Klenke
Date: 10/10/25

150 Osborne Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $437,000
Buyer: Lee Conner
Seller: Anthony J. Nevue
Date: 10/10/25

37 Warebrook Village
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Kevin M. Comptois
Seller: Bryce D. Haley
Date: 10/10/25

57 Warebrook Village
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Melvin Weagle
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 10/23/25

WILLIAMSBURG

201 Main St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $910,000
Buyer: Branching Tree Inc.
Seller: Rosana P. Duval
Date: 10/17/25

12 South St.
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Gregory R. Conz
Seller: Thomas C. Hodgkins TR
Date: 10/17/25

WESTHAMPTON

Main Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Aaron Bauer
Seller: Helen K. Desantis
Date: 10/21/25

Route 66
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Aaron Bauer
Seller: Helen K. Desantis
Date: 10/21/25

Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the months of October and November 2025.

CHICOPEE

Jeffrey J. Campbell Inc.
649 Meadow St.
$10,000 — Remove demising wall and two mezzanines

City of Chicopee
154 Grove St.
$250,000 — Demolition

FH Vision Estate Inc.
536 East St.
$24,650 — Garage renovations and paint

 

Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield
30 College St.
$59,308 — At St. Anne Parish, restore kitchen, install fire stopping, restored damaged areas of building, and build storage room within altar boy room

Westfield Savings Bank
70 Center St.
$509,000 — Fit-out existing office space, construct 14 offices

EASTHAMPTON

Calvary Baptist Church
413 Main St.
$46,092.37 — Attic insulation and air sealing

HADLEY

Amherst Development Associates
401 Russell St.
N/A — Change name of sign on Route 9

LENOX

Amici Realty LLC
80 Church St.
$10,000 — Install fire alarm system

NORTHAMPTON

98 Pine Street LLC
98 Pine St.
$20,000 — Repairs due to asbestos

Alloy LLC
5 Fulton Ave.
$18,000 — Illuminated ground mount sign

American Tower
Haydenville Road
$30,000 — Add cabinets and generator on concrete pad and place new antennas on platform mounted to tower

City of Northampton
Armory St.
$134,995 — Repairs and upgrades to stair towers and roofs on parking garage

City of Northampton
80 Locust St.
$17,000 — Add isolation room to multi-species barn at Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, foundation only

Florence Family Enterprises LLC
99 Main St.
$2,500 — Reface illuminated ground sign for JJ’s Tavern

Smith College
7 College Lane
$508,500 — Renovations to classrooms 424-424A

Smith College
29 Kensington Ave.
$80,000 — Porch and stair repairs and renovations

Smith College
64 Kensington Ave.
$85,000 — Repair first-floor porch and second-floor columns and railings

St. John’s Episcopal Church
48 Elm St.
$11,650 — Eleven replacement windows

Trident Realty Corp.
139 King St.
$41,000 — Add insulation

PITTSFIELD

AdLib Inc.
215 North St.
$29,337 — Replace gas-fired rooftop unit

Arks Enterprises LLC
864 South St.
$18,500 — Roofing

Berkshire Life Insurance Co.
700 South St.
$10,000 — Repair fire doors

Berkshire Medical Center Inc.
725 North St.
$239,100 — Interior alterations to reconfigure existing X-ray room to CT room

Berkshire Medical Center Inc.
725 North St.
$4,994 — Modify sprinkler coverage within renovated space

OBCC Holdings LLC
74 Downing Parkway
$150,000 — Roofing

Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds Inc.
131 Fenn St.
$43,000 — Roofing

Roots Rising Inc.
923 Barker Road
$80,942 — Install 54 solar panels on roof

Opinion

Editorial

 

Innovation and collaboration.

As he steps down from his leadership post next month, Rick Sullivan, president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council (EDC), has been touting those two elements among what makes the Western Mass. economy tick, and what it needs to continue to build on in the coming years.

And those were two words he drew on when it was announced earlier this month that Western Mass. has been designated as both a Quantum Technology TechHub and a Food Science TechHub through the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative.

In addition to the two designations, funding in the form of $1 million to advance a feasibility and design study of a quantum supply chain accelerator (QSCA) was awarded to Springfield Technical Community College.

The QSCA will anchor the next phase of the Commonwealth’s quantum strategy, building on the foundation established in Holyoke at the Massachusetts Green High Performance Computing Center (MGHPCC) and the state’s first quantum computing complex launched with QuEra Computing Inc. The accelerator will be the first regional facility of its kind to drive commercialization, support startups, and strengthen advanced manufacturing supply chains across the Pioneer Valley.

In a recent conversation with BusinessWest, Sullivan said it’s impossible to know for sure what the economy will look like a decade or two down the road, or what will be driving it, but the EDC and other local leaders have been proactive about considering that question and pushing for strategic investments.

“These are sectors that are going be more important tomorrow and 10 years down the road than they even are today,” he said of these evolving industries. “AI is booming, and quantum is booming, and the issues of food science and food scarcity, water delivery systems and water scarcity … those problems are only going to grow and be more important in 10 years.”

We’ve been talking about innovation and collaboration for many years at BusinessWest because we recognize how those concepts have raised the profile and economic strength of a region that sometimes gets forgotten out east — concept that, when put into action, create not just vibrancy, but jobs, and a promising future.

“Springfield, the City of Firsts, has a proud legacy of innovation,” U.S. Rep. Richard Neal said regarding the QSCA. “This award will help solidify Springfield’s position as a leader in this new technological era, placing the city at the forefront of advancement in quantum technology.”

We believe this project, and the TechHub designations, have that potential — and more.

Opinion

Radical Kindness in the Workplace

By Allison Ebner

In our workplaces, we talk a lot about innovation, agility, and results in leadership circles. But there’s one strategy that often gets overlooked, dismissed as soft or secondary: kindness. Not the passive, conflict-avoidant version of niceness that lets problems fester, but radical kindness — the deliberate choice to lead with empathy, respect, and genuine care, even when it’s difficult.

In today’s workplaces, where tensions run high and perspectives often clash, radical kindness isn’t just a pleasant ideal; it’s a strategic imperative. As leaders, we set the tone for how our teams navigate disagreement, handle stress, and treat one another. The question isn’t whether we can afford to prioritize kindness. It’s whether we can afford not to.

Radical kindness is not about creating false harmony or avoiding tough conversations. It’s not about being permissive or lowering standards. Radical kindness means approaching every interaction with the assumption that people are doing their best, that their perspectives matter, and that respectful dialogue can coexist with high expectations.

When people feel genuinely valued, they take smart risks, share ideas freely, and collaborate more effectively. When they don’t, they shut down, disengage, or leave. The culture we create as leaders directly impacts our bottom line. Here are some specific behaviors that make radical kindness tangible:

• Assume positive intent first. When someone disagrees with your decision or misses a deadline, your first response sets the tone. Starting from the assumption that they’re trying to do good work — rather than that they’re incompetent or difficult — completely changes the conversation. Instead of “why didn’t you get this done?” try “help me understand what got in the way.”

• Listen to understand, not to respond. In your next meeting, try this: before offering your perspective, repeat back what you heard from the other person. This simple act — “so what I’m hearing is you’re concerned about the timeline because of the resource constraints, is that right?” — demonstrates respect and often de-escalates tension before it builds.

• Acknowledge the person behind the opinion. Before diving into why you disagree with someone’s approach, recognize the validity of their concerns or perspective. “I can see why you’d feel that way given your experience with the last product launch” goes a long way toward keeping dialogue open, even as you chart a different course. This isn’t about compromising your position — it’s about honoring their contribution to the conversation.

• Share your own uncertainties. When leaders admit “I’m still thinking through this” or “I was wrong about that,” it gives everyone permission to be human. Vulnerability from the top creates cultures where learning matters more than being right. Intellectual humility is one of the most powerful forms of radical kindness because it levels the playing field and invites collaboration.

• Notice the small moments. Greet people warmly when you see them. Ask about their weekend and actually listen to the answer. Notice when someone seems off and check in privately. Celebrate small wins publicly. These micro-moments accumulate into culture. They signal that people matter, not just their output.

Radical kindness doesn’t mean eliminating different viewpoints. It means making disagreement productive rather than destructive. The healthiest teams I’ve seen have vigorous debates about ideas while maintaining absolute respect for people.

The beautiful thing about radical kindness is its multiplier effect. When you consistently model this behavior, it gives others permission to do the same. One kind interaction can shift someone’s entire day, which shifts how they treat their colleagues, which shifts team dynamics, which shifts organizational culture.

Leading with radical kindness requires courage. It means staying open when it would be easier to shut down. It means extending grace when you’re frustrated. It means believing in people’s potential even when they’re struggling.

But this is exactly the kind of leadership our workplaces need right now. In a world that often rewards cynicism and self-protection, choosing radical kindness is the most reliable path to creating teams where people do their best work, treat each other well, and actually want to show up each day.

 

Allison Ebner is president of the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast. This article is abridged from one that first appeared on the EANE blog. It can be read in full at eane.org.

Daily News

HADLEY — Following the Nov. 7 fire that displaced 230 students at Olympia Place, an off-campus apartment complex primarily serving UMass Amherst students, UMassFive College Federal Credit Union stepped forward to assist the community it has long supported.

“When we heard about the fire, we knew that — both as a credit union with deep roots serving UMass, and simply as members of this community — we needed to help,” said Craig Boivin, vice president of Marketing at UMassFive. “It’s getting cold, budgets are tight, and many of these students lost all of their belongings. We heard that the UMass Amherst Student Care & Emergency Response Fund was seeking donations to assist those impacted, and we immediately explored what we could contribute and connected with our vendor partners.”

UMassFive donated $3,000 to the fund this past week, including a $500 contribution from its online and mobile banking provider. Additionally, the Amherst Survival Center is hosting a winter coat and cold-weather clothing giveaway this week, supported by donations collected through UMassFive.

For those interested in supporting the displaced students, the UMass Amherst Student Care & Emergency Response Fund continues to accept donations. Click here to contribute.

Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank’s 2026 Community Giving Initiative is in full swing, and the bank is inviting the public to help decide which local nonprofit organizations will receive donations in the coming year.

Voting is open now and runs through Dec. 31 at 3 p.m. Voters should visit www.monsonsavings.bank/cgi and submit the name of one nonprofit organization they would like Monson Savings Bank to support in 2026. Organizations must be nonprofit and serve within the bank’s geographic area. Each person may vote once.

The 10 ten organizations with the most votes will receive donations from Monson Savings Bank. Winners will be announced in mid-January 2026.

“By participating in our Community Giving Initiative, you help ensure that the charitable organizations most important to our community receive support,” said Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank. “We are grateful for your involvement and look forward to continuing this tradition together.”

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) earned six prestigious Medallion Awards from the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations (NCMPR) District 1 at the organization’s annual conference held in Pittsburgh in November.

STCC was one of the most awarded colleges on the entire Eastern Seaboard and received more honors than any other Massachusetts community college.

The Medallion Awards recognize outstanding achievement in design and communications at community and technical colleges across the Northeast, Eastern Canada, and the U.K. This year, STCC stood out for creative excellence across a wide range of categories, reflecting the strength and innovation of its Marketing & Communications team.

STCC received the following awards: Gold Award – E-Newsletter; Gold Award – Interior Signage/Displays; Silver Award – E-Card; Bronze Award – Excellence in Writing, Short Form; Bronze Award – Outdoor Signage/Display; and Bronze Award – Audio Content.

“We are thrilled to be recognized among the best in the region,” said Traci Wolfe, assistant vice president of Advancement. “The awards reflect the talent, creativity, and hard work of our marketing and communications team who tell STCC’s story with passion and purpose.”

NCMPR District 1 encompasses community and technical colleges from Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Nova Scotia, Pennsylvania, Prince Edward Island, Québec, Rhode Island, Vermont, and the United Kingdom.

“To bring home six awards from such a competitive district is an incredible honor,” said Eli Freund, director of Marketing and Communications. “This recognition reflects our commitment to creating high-quality content that showcases the impact of STCC and our community.”

The achievements highlight STCC’s growing regional reputation for communications excellence and reinforce the college’s mission to engage, educate, and inspire through accessible and innovative storytelling.

Daily News

HOLYOKE — Regional leaders from diverse sectors of the Pioneer Valley economy will gather at Holyoke Community College (HCC) on Tuesday, Dec. 2 for a discussion that will help create the next chapter in the college’s 80-year history.

The general public is also invited to attend this breakfast event, “Shaping the Future: A Community Conversation,” from 7:30 to 10 a.m. in the PeoplesBank Conference Room (301/303) in the Kittredge Center for Business and Workforce Development, on the main HCC campus, 303 Homestead Ave.

The panelists include Megan Burke, president of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts; Anne Kandilis, director of Springfield WORKS; Frank Martínez López, executive director of Enlace de Familias; Jason Pacheco, director of Workforce Planning and Analytics at Baystate Health; Javier Reyes, chancellor of UMass Amherst; and Aaron Vega, director of the Office of Planning and Economic Development for the city of Holyoke and incoming president and CEO of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council.

Among the other attendees will be state Rep. Pat Duffy; John Reiff, director of Civic Learning and Engagement with the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education; and representatives from MassHire Holyoke, Way Finders, Holyoke Health Center, Tech Foundry, Holyoke Public Schools, Dean Tech, Nuestras Raices, and the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts.

HCC President George Timmons will kick off the event and set the stage for this community conversation. A question-and-answer session will follow the panel discussion.

“At Holyoke Community College, student success is a community effort,” Timmons said. “When our students thrive — when they graduate, transfer, gain new skills, launch careers, and become leaders — our entire region benefits. These leaders, our education partners, and others will share perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing our community, sparking table conversations that will inform how we write the next chapter for HCC — and for our region.”

The event is part of “SP 3.0,” the third iteration of the college’s strategic planning process, which began with the start of the fall semester. The college drafted its first strategic plan in 2018. That plan was refreshed in 2021. So far, emerging priorities for Strategic Plan 3.0 include collaboration and partnerships, as well as workforce and post-graduation success.

“Together, we’ve achieved many of the ambitious goals of our previous strategic plans, creating pathways and opportunities that have transformed lives and strengthened our community,” Timmons said. “Strategic Plan 3.0 is the next chapter in that shared work, and we need to hear as many voices as possible to help us chart the course ahead.”

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Rock 102 (WAQY-FM) will host its annual Mayflower Marathon food drive to benefit Springfield’s Open Pantry next week, marking 32 consecutive years of the community tradition.

This year, the event returns to MGM Springfield for the three days leading up to Thanksgiving. Morning hosts Bax & Nagle will broadcast for 52 hours, encouraging listeners to donate non-perishable food items to support Open Pantry Community Services of Springfield. With demand for assistance continuing to rise (more than 50% of households in Hampden, Hampshire, and Franklin counties now face food insecurity), the need for donations has never been more urgent.

The Mayflower Marathon has long been fueled by extraordinary community generosity. Local residents and businesses, including the Springfield Thunderbirds, Capitol Relocation and Logistics, Xfinity, Camping World of West Hatfield, Arment Trucking, and many others, have historically delivered overwhelming support. Rock 102 hopes to see that spirit continue in 2025.

This year’s lineup of scheduled guest interviews includes musician Gary Hoey; Mike Scully (West Springfield native and former executive producer of The Simpsons); comedians Tom Cotter, Bob Marley, Kerri Louise, Fitzy; and more.

The Mayflower Marathon kicks off at 6 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 24 and concludes at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 26. Donations can be made at the collection site located by the South End Market at MGM Springfield or online at rock102.com.

Daily News

ADAMS — The holiday season is set to sparkle as the town of Adams kicks off its annual Holly Days Christmas tree lighting celebration on Sunday, Nov. 30 on the Town Common. This cherished community tradition ushers in the festive season with music, hayrides, hot chocolate, holiday treats, and the magical moment when the community Christmas tree is illuminated for all to enjoy.

The celebration begins at 2 p.m., featuring hayrides, music by DJ Bizz, hot chocolate courtesy of the Daily Grind, candy from the Adams Lions Club, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. The official tree lighting will take place at dusk (approximately 4:30 p.m.), when the Town Common will glow with holiday lights to mark the start of the season. This event is free and open to the public.

This year, Adams is expanding its Holly Days festivities to create a season filled with fun, family-friendly holiday experiences. In addition to the Christmas tree lighting, a second Holly Days event will be held on Saturday, Dec. 6, featuring a campfire, children’s activities, and another visit from Santa, sponsored by Adams Community Bank.

These new offerings build on seasonal traditions already taking place throughout town, including craft fairs, train rides, concerts, and other festive gatherings. Together, these events create a vibrant, fun-filled Holly Days celebration that showcases Adams as a welcoming and joyful destination for the holiday season.

Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — The Bikes Fight Cancer Charity Ride has become one of the most impactful community fundraisers in Western Mass., uniting cyclists, volunteers, and sponsors to ease the burden of a cancer diagnosis for local families. In just three years, ride participants have raised more than $550,000 to support cancer care and research across the region.

The 2025 ride, held on June 14, brought together more than 600 riders at Tree House Brewing Company in South Deerfield. Riders raised more than $260,000, with $170,000 of that being distributed locally to organizations providing critical cancer services, care, and patient support in the Pioneer Valley.

Local beneficiaries include the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Cancer Connection, CHD’s Cancer House of Hope, and Magic for Maddie.

Cooley Dickinson received $70,000 to support its Cancer Patient Care Fund, which helps patients facing financial hardship. The gift carried special meaning as Team Cooley, a group of hospital doctors, nurses, and social workers, rode in this year’s event and raised more than $16,000 toward the total.

“The funds raised by Bikes Fight Cancer will directly ease the financial stress many patients face,” said Diane Dukette, the hospital’s chief Development officer. “Every dollar raised helps a cancer patient here at Cooley Dickinson, allowing them to focus on healing and recovery. We are so grateful to those who participated in the charity ride, volunteered their time, and donated to support cancer patients in our community.”

Cancer Connection in Northampton received $45,000 to expand its integrative therapies like massage and acupuncture and strengthen outreach across the 64 Western Mass. towns it serves.

“Cancer Connection and Bikes Fight Cancer share a deep commitment to easing the burden for people with cancer,” said Chelsea Klein, executive director of Cancer Connection. “We’re honored by this support and excited to grow this partnership.”

CHD’s Cancer House of Hope in West Springfield received $36,000 to support its mission of providing free programs and services that bring comfort, care, and healing to individuals living with cancer and their loved ones.

“We’re thrilled to make such meaningful contributions to local organizations directly helping families impacted by cancer,” said Johnny Morin, co-founder of Bikes Fight Cancer. “Our mission to empower the community in the fight against cancer is just beginning.”

Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — DC Station will host a grand opening celebration on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 2 to 5 p.m. at 5 Fulton Ave. so area residents can tour the new EV-centric facility, learn about its fast, level-3 charging ports, and meet the manager of the station’s learning and resource center, EV Base Camp.

“This event is our way of celebrating the launch and saying ‘thank you’ to everyone who’s helped bring DC Station to life,” developer Bruce Volz said. “We’re going to build some excitement and buzz about electric vehicles and the resources we have to offer here for drivers — and those who think they might like to be EV drivers.”

Local officials will be on hand at the free event as Volz thanks his construction team from Keiter and the building’s architects from Kuhn Riddle. Volz, an eco-friendly EV driver, will also share his vision for DC Station.

Unveiled in October, DC Station — named DC for direct current — offers a place for EV drivers to get a fast charge at one of 10 ports, available 24 hours a day. Drivers will also be able to grab a bite to eat and learn about the latest EV technology and vehicles. The station is located on the southern end of Northampton, a quarter-mile from Interstate I-91. Overflow parking for the grand opening will be available at Spare Time Bowling Alley.

At the event, visitors can have a bite to eat and hear from representatives of Lynkwell, which installed the charging ports, about the difference between level-2 and level-3 chargers. Participants will also learn how to use the level-3 chargers, including payment options.

Greg Goff, manager of EV Base Camp, will be on hand to answer questions and talk about the center’s varied EV resources. “One thing is missing in the EV industry, and that is proper education,” he said. “There is also a bias on how electric cars work. We want to get accurate information out to the public.”

At the grand opening, Goff will answer questions and talk with people interested in purchasing an EV who have concerns about where they might charge their vehicles. “I’ll also demystify EVs and make concepts understandable, such as the difference between fast and slow chargers,” he said. “I can also explain other terminology.”

EV Base Camp will offer a central place in the region for resources and information on EVs, including information on new models and used vehicles, the ins and outs of charging, financing and rebate options, maintenance questions, and information on planning a trip to reduce ‘range anxiety.’

Base Camp also plans to add an EV of the Week component in which interested parties can schedule a test drive from the site in that week’s featured EV.

DC Station still seeks tenants to offer food service, such as a coffee house or café to serve customers from early morning to afternoon, and a casual restaurant, such as a pizza or taco house, that would be open until later in the evening.

Daily News

LONGMEADOW — The Momentum Group with AnnieMac Home Mortgage announced the opening of its newest branch located in the historic Brewer-Young Mansion at 734 Longmeadow St. in Longmeadow.

The team is led by Branch Manager Angela Tourville, who brings expertise from both loan processing and originating, giving her a deep understanding of the home loan process from start to finish. She is joined by Sales Manager Mike Tourville, who is focused on building strong community partnerships and driving growth; Prav Mathur, a seasoned professional with more than 30 years of lending experience and strong community ties; and April Towers, whose dedication and compassion for guiding families through the homebuying process make her a valued part of the team.

“As we build our team, new relationships, and serve our community, you’ll be hearing a lot more from the Momentum Group at AnnieMac,” Angela Tourville said. “It’s hard to keep up with all the exciting opportunities we can offer to our clients and referral partners.”

She and her team are committed to making the homebuying journey less stressful, more accessible, and truly rewarding for families in the region.

“AnnieMac’s energetic leadership and cutting-edge programs give us the momentum to not only expand but also deliver more value to our clients and referral partners,” Mike Tourville said.

AnnieMac, Momentum Group is actively looking to build upon its team. “If you’re a mortgage professional in the Western Mass. or Northern Conn. market looking for a company that truly values its loan officers, we’d love to hear from you,” Angela added.

Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Dakin Humane Society honored six people, one company, and a dedicated guide dog at its 2025 Humane Awards, which were held at Dakin’s Springfield location on Nov. 13. Meg Talbert, executive director at Dakin, and Kaitlyn Holloway, Dakin’s Community Engagement manager, presided over the award ceremony. The winners of the 2025 Dakin Humane Awards are:

• Katelin Welles (Richard & Nathalie Woodbury Philanthropy Humane Award). This award is bestowed to a leader in the community displays remarkable stewardship in sharing time, talent, and resources to improve the lives of animals and people who love them. Welles is a Navy veteran and a former addiction counselor who currently volunteers as a wildlife rehabilitator. She is especially dedicated to caring for neonatal kittens and recently completed a surrender counseling workshop to help families keep their beloved pets whenever possible. Dakin is one of several East Coast humane societies she supports philanthropically, and her generosity has enabled Dakin to enhance its Kitten ICU, provide winter shelters for feral cats, restock much-needed supplies, and provide a number of services for animals in need and the people who love them.

• Trystan Candelario (Youth Humane Award). This award honors a hero, age 16 or younger, who displays extraordinary care and compassion to make a difference in the lives of animals. Candelario began helping animals at age 7. In 2023, at age 10, he rescued two vulnerable and hungry puppies while visiting Puerto Rico, brought them back to his Massachusetts home, and helped them find families to care for them. He has built feral cat outdoor shelters to help cats stay warm in the winter, fundraised for animal causes, and helped rescue animals both locally and far away. He has also returned to Puerto Rico after natural disasters to help feed animals left without homes.

• Dr. Lauren Atkins (Frances M. Wells Humane Award). This award, named for the Greenfield Animal Shelter’s benefactor, is given to an individual recognized for notable contributions to the health and welfare of animals. After launching her career in animal welfare 28 years ago in South Carolina, Atkins eventually moved north and became the first veterinarian hired when Dakin moved into its Springfield location. She also spent a decade at Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center, continuing to improve shelter medicine and the quality of care for thousands of animals. Her most compassionate chapter began when she founded Paws Finding Peace, a practice dedicated to at-home euthanasia that allows families to say goodbye to beloved pets with dignity and love.

• Melissa Dawn Vancini (Champion Humane Award). This award honors an individual who serves in the public or nonprofit sector who has faithfully made life better for tens of thousands of animals and people. Vancini is the founder of Missing Mutts Search & Rescue, a volunteer-based nonprofit group that helps reunite lost pets with their owners through free search and rescue services. The group is the culmination of a decade spent as a foster caregiver for dogs, many of whom were scared and a flight risk. Through patience and care, Vancini learned how to work with these dogs and help them settle in, understand what each one responded to best, and give them time to adjust to their new settings. Over time, an idea took shape to open her own dog recovery group, which became Missing Mutts Search & Rescue.

• Bernie (guide dog) and David Roulston (Distinguished Animal Humane Award). This award recognizes an exceptional animal (and human handler) whose extraordinary devotion to people has proved transformative or lifesaving in challenging or exceptional circumstances. Few partnerships embody the human-animal bond more beautifully than Roulston and his guide dog, Bernie. Roulston has spent his life in service to others, and his work has been guided by integrity and compassion. For the past 45 years as an attorney, he has defended the rights of people facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives: those caught in the legal system while battling addiction and struggling with their mental health. He did all this while living with an incurable eye condition he’s had for more than 25 years. Beside him every step of the way have been his guide dogs, including his current companion, Bernie. Roulston and Bernie were honored for demonstrating how the human-animal bond can transform lives with service and grace.

• Berkshire Bank (Corporate Leadership Humane Award). This award is presented to a business or its corporate foundation that demonstrates outstanding commitment to improve the lives of animals through employee giving, volunteerism, or partnership. Berkshire Bank, a division of Beacon Bank & Trust, is committed to helping those in its communities live their best lives and reach their full financial potential. In addition to giving back to the communities it serves through grants, sponsorships, and campaigns, the bank’s employees tirelessly support Dakin’s work in a variety of ways, including serving on its board of directors, volunteering at its Will Run for Cookies 5K, holding a ‘kitten shower’ to collect donations from local financial center personnel, and standing in as Mrs. Claus at a pet photos with Santa event.

• Charlotte Cathro (Janet Wilder Dakin Lifetime Achievement Humane Award). This award is bestowed to a person whose life’s work has exhibited exemplary leadership, selfless commitment, passion, and extraordinary dedication to advancing animal welfare. From her first family dog to an impactful school trip to a farm that led her, at age 9, to stop eating meat (and ultimately adopt a vegan diet), Cathro has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of animals through rescuing, fostering, and caring for them. Shortly after relocating to Western Mass. in 2011, she joined Dakin’s board of directors, bringing her financial expertise to strengthen the organization, eventually serving as treasurer, finance chair, and president. Thanks to her expertise and guidance, Dakin has a solid financial foundation and sustainable future. She tackled all that while running her own business, teaching, and raising a family.

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SPRINGFIELD — Tickets are now on sale for the eighth annual Women of Impact awards gala, hosted by BusinessWest. The event will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 9 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. Click here to purchase tickets.

Profiles of the Women of Impact class of 2025 can be read in the Oct. 27 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com. This year’s honorees are:

• Tara Brewster, vice president of Business Development and Director of Philanthropy at Greenfield Savings Bank;

• Ayanna Crawford, president of AC Consulting and Media Services;

• Tracy Friedenberg, executive director of Bacon Wilson, P.C.;

• Rania Kfuri, vice president for Philanthropy, Sales, and Marketing at Glenmeadow;

• Chelsea Kline, executive director of Cancer Connection;

• Angelina Ramirez, CEO of Stavros Center for Independent Living;

• Amanda Sanderson, executive director of Resilience Center of Franklin County; and

• Sarah Rose Stack, lecturer of Public Relations at UMass Amherst.

BusinessWest also announced that Dina McMahon, morning show co-host for the Kellogg Krew on 94.7fm WMAS; and LaTonia Monroe Naylor, chief business educator at Monroe Naylor Consulting, LLC, president and CEO of Parent Villages, and a 2024 BusinessWest Woman of Impact, will co-emcee this year’s gala.

The eighth annual Women of Impact program is presented by Country Bank and TommyCar Auto Group, sponsored by Bacon Wilson, P.C., and supported by Feel Good Shop Local and 94.7fm WMAS. For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

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SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership (SEZP) was named the 2025 recipient of the Teacher Powered Schools Partnership Award, presented last month at the annual Teacher Powered Schools Conference in Ypsilanti, Mich. The national award honors partnerships between schools, districts, and teachers’ unions that exemplify the power of collaboration and shared leadership to empower educators, students, and families.

Since its founding in 2015, SEZP has forged a groundbreaking partnership with the Springfield Education Assoc. (SEA) that reimagines what is possible when educators are trusted to lead. Through a series of teacher contracts — with the latest ratified by 93% of union members this past June — teachers have gained expanded decision-making power in critical areas such as working conditions, curriculum, and school design, while also receiving higher compensation than their district peers for the additional time dedicated to teacher collaboration and leadership.

Central to this success are SEZP’s teacher leadership teams, school-based groups that ensure teachers have a formal, consistent voice in decisions that shape instruction, culture, and operations. Together, SEZP and the SEA have created a model of shared leadership that continues to attract national attention for its ability to combine teacher empowerment with improved outcomes for students.

“The Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership represents what is possible when districts, unions, and educators come together in true partnership,” said Amy Junge, director of Teacher Powered Schools. “SEZP’s model proves that empowering teachers with voice and authority is not only good for teachers, it is great for kids. This is teacher-powered education at its finest.”

Matt Brunell and Colleen Curran, co-executive directors of SEZP, added that “this recognition really belongs to Springfield’s teachers. Their willingness to lead — to take ownership of budgets, curriculum, schedules, and more — has created the collaborative culture that defines our schools. We’re proud that this work is now seen as a national model for how collective leadership can drive student success.”

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WESTFIELD — Westfield Bank recently donated $3,000 to Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts to change the lives of young people by providing them with the tools, training, and real-world experiences they need to develop financial literacy, explore careers, and build brighter futures.

“We are grateful for this partnership to empower our young people to dream what’s possible for their futures and build thriving communities,” said Amie Miarecki, president of Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts.

A trusted name in youth education for decades, Junior Achievement of Western Massachusetts serves numerous students each year through programs that teach personal finance, entrepreneurship, and work readiness. The organization collaborates with educators and community volunteers to deliver hands-on learning in classrooms across the region.

“Junior Achievement plays a vital role in helping young people understand money, business, and the power of their own potential,” said James Hagan, president and CEO of Westfield Bank. “We’re proud to support their mission and help shape the next generation of innovators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.”

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ENFIELD, Conn. — Credit registration is in progress for Connecticut State Community College (CT State) winter session at campuses statewide, including CT State Asnuntuck in Enfield, with classes available in person, online, and in hybrid formats.

Winter session runs Dec. 29 to Jan. 18. Students can earn up to four credits in three weeks during the accelerated courses, which cover the same content as a regular 15-week class. For more information and to find classes, visit ctstate.edu/summer-winter.

Students who attend other colleges may enroll in courses at CT State campuses and transfer the winter credits earned to their bachelor’s or associate degree programs. During college break, some students take winter session classes to get ahead in their studies, catch up on credits, or fulfill a prerequisite. Classes in math, lab sciences, social sciences, and humanities are among the topics covered, many of which fulfill general education requirements.

New students can register online or in person. Those who have not previously taken a credit course at CT State campuses or a former Connecticut community college can submit an application online at no cost. Visit ctstate.edu/become-a-student to learn more.

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Michael Lareau

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced the appointment of Michael Lareau as a new board member and Tolulope “Tolu” Odunsi-Nelson as a new associate director. Both bring extensive professional expertise and a strong commitment to serving the local community.

Tolulope Odunsi-Nelson

Lareau is a veteran technology executive and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in information technology, including guiding banks and credit unions through regulatory compliance and technology innovation. A graduate of Springfield Technical Community College with a degree in IT security, he has served on STCC’s IT advisory board since 2014. He has been a UMassFive member and advocate for more than seven years.

“I’ve seen UMassFive distinguish itself as a forward-thinking, community-driven credit union,” Lareau said. “Its exceptional service and personal touch set the financial institution apart in a crowded market. Following my appointment, I’m eager to contribute to the credit union’s continued leadership and adaptability while preserving the values that make it thrive.”

Odunsi-Nelson is an attorney, educator, and advocate with extensive governance experience. She earned her juris doctorate from American University Washington College of Law and began her career as a trial attorney specializing in advocacy, compliance, and risk assessment. Her civil rights work has focused on addressing structural barriers to wealth and financial stability, an area closely aligned with UMassFive’s mission.

“UMassFive’s commitment to helping members build wealth, improve financial literacy, and access fair financial services is directly connected to my career work,” Odunsi-Nelson said. “I am inspired by UMassFive’s leadership in supporting local communities, its emphasis on sustainability, and dedication to member education. Serving the UMassFive membership allows me to contribute my skills and perspective to strengthen an institution that not only provides excellent financial services, but also plays a vital role in advancing inclusion and community well-being.”

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CHICOPEE — The town of Lenox marked a major milestone this past weekend with the ribbon cutting of its new public safety complex — a modern, future-ready facility designed by Caolo & Bieniek Architects (CBA).

The project brings the town’s Police, Fire, and EMS departments together under one roof for the first time, replacing aging and undersized buildings that had long limited departmental operations.

The new, 21,000-square-foot complex stems from CBA’s 2019 Space Needs Analysis, which assessed conditions at existing facilities and explored renovation and siting options. That study ultimately guided the design of a purpose-built headquarters featuring secure police operations — including an interview suite, evidence processing, and a sally port — as well as dedicated fire and EMS spaces with sleeping quarters, apparatus bays, and contamination control areas.

“This building truly supports how modern first responders work,” outgoing Police Chief Stephen O’Brien said. “CBA understood our needs from day one and designed a facility that will serve Lenox for decades.”

Town officials emphasized the project’s long trajectory, beginning with early discussions in 2015 and culminating in unanimous voter approval in 2022. Incoming Police Chief Mark Smith praised the town’s long-term vision, noting that “Lenox built this facility with the future in mind — and that’s what makes it exceptional.”

Residents toured the new building during a recent open house, getting a rare behind-the-scenes look before departments transition into the space. For CBA, the completion of the Lenox Public Safety Complex represents a continued commitment to serving Western Mass. communities with thoughtful, functional, and forward-looking municipal design.

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HOLYOKE — Santa Claus is set to make his return from the North Pole to Holyoke Mall with a special arrival event this Saturday, Nov. 22. The magic begins at 11 a.m. with a fire truck arrival at the mall entrance next to Pickleball Kingdom, near JCPenney.

Guests are encouraged to arrive before 11 a.m. to gather for Santa’s arrival to make sure they don’t miss his grand entrance with the Holyoke Fire Department. Santa will be escorted to his village in Café Square by the Colby Academy of Dance, followed by a special holiday performance from the group.

The holiday festivities continue with free face painting and balloon twisting by Dazzle Day Face Painters. Photos with Santa are available in Café Square immediately following his arrival until Christmas Eve. Babies, children, families, and even pets are invited. Reservations are strongly encouraged and can be made by visiting whereissanta.com.

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SPRINGFIELD — This holiday season, Rocky’s Ace Hardware, one of the nation’s largest family-owned Ace Hardware dealers with 51 locations in nine states, is encouraging customers to make a big difference with small change. Through Dec. 31, shoppers can round their purchase total to the next dollar, with every penny donated to Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hHospitals to help children receiving life-saving care.

“The healthcare professionals at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals are nothing short of heroes,” said Rocco Falcone, president of Rocky’s Ace Hardware. “We’re proud to support their work and grateful to our customers who join us in helping kids get the best possible medical treatment, right in their local communities.”

Last year, the initiative raised more than $91,000 across all Rocky’s locations. All money raised goes to benefit local CMN hospitals, including Baystate Children’s Hospital in Springfield. Local participating Rocky’s locations include the Island Pond Road and Liberty Street stores in Springfield, as well as stores in Agawam, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, Palmer, South Hadley, and Westfield.

Donations help fund critical treatments, innovative research, pediatric equipment, financial assistance for families, and services aimed at putting the minds of children at ease during difficult hospital stays.

“Each year, I’m moved by how generously our customers give,” Falcone added. “When we come together, we help hospitals save lives and bring hope to families who need it most. That’s what the season of giving is all about.”

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In case you missed it — and it was hard to miss because it was all over ESPN and the internet — UMass was down 45-0 to Northern Illinois in their game last week, kicked a field goal to cut into that lead midway through the fourth quarter, and then spectators were treated to … fireworks.

That’s right, fireworks.

This display amounted to terrible optics and a scene that will, and should, hang over this program for a long time now. And if we’re being optimistic (which is very hard to be with this program), maybe this imagery will inspire some action.

Something is certainly needed.

UMass football has become more than an embarrassment to the university, its students, and its huge alumni base. The school has a seemingly permanent place in ESPN’s ‘bottom 10’ rankings, an inglorious list of the 10 worst programs in college football’s highest tier — the Football Bowl Subdivision, or FBS.

And this year, it looks like the school could be the ‘bottom 1.’ It is the only winless team in the FBS at 0-10, with one of those losses coming to Division 2 Bryant, and it has scored just 105 points while giving up 376. It ranks dead last in ESPN’s College Football Power Index at 136.

Meanwhile, the school is a member of the Mid-American Conference (MAC), one of the most anonymous in the country, and plays the likes of Buffalo, Akron, Central Michigan, and Bowling Green. These are not regional rivalries, and they are not going to draw fans to Warren McGuirk Alumni Stadium. Indeed, a very small crowd was on hand to see those fireworks in person.

The futility on the football field stands in stark contrast to progress UMass Amherst has made in many other realms, from its business and engineering programs to the biosciences and IT. And the university is finding that it’s much more difficult to achieve success on the gridiron than in the classroom, having cycled through several coaches and moving from the MAC to status as an independent, and then going back to the MAC, where it lives in virtual obscurity — until it decides to send up fireworks when it cuts the opponent’s lead to 42 points.

The program needs to either move back down a division and play some of its regional rivals, like New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Harvard, and maybe Boston College, or make a serious financial commitment to this endeavor to play ‘big-time’ college football.

Like we said, maybe this display will inspire some real progress, something actually worthy of fireworks.

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GREAT BARRINGTON — The Berkshires is about to welcome a new destination for wellness, self-care, and community. Feel Good Haus, a modern apothecary that aims to help people feel good physically, mentally, and emotionally, will open in Great Barrington on Thursday, Dec. 4, in time for Berkshires holiday festivities and seasonal shopping within the local business community.

The belief behind Feel Good Haus is rooted in the restorative power of small, intentional rituals that can help everyone feel good — a discovery the founder made while working full-time, parenting two children, and caring for both parents with stage 4 cancer simultaneously. Whether it’s an uplifting botanical shower, a quiet cup of herbal tea, or a soft eye pillow that aids sleep, the brand’s mission is to help find balance by curating the highest-quality, natural self-care products for body, mind, and soul while contributing to the Berkshires community as a wellness destination.

The retail store, located at 38 Railroad St. in Great Barrington, features makers based in Berkshire County and Western Mass., as well as a variety of small-batch artisans from across the U.S.

Future offerings include connection opportunities with local artisans and open discussions around topics such as aromatherapy, grief, menopause, and the benefits of self-care. Because acts of generosity contribute to feeling good, Feel Good Haus will partner with community organizations through its Gift to Give donation program, kicking off in February 2026 with Berkshire Pride.

“Feeling good doesn’t need to be elaborate,” said Tricia MacKenzie, founder and proprietor of Feel Good Haus. “A five-minute morning skin ritual can bring calm. An herbal scent can shift perspective. A mineral bath can soothe both body and mind. Feeling connected lowers stress levels, reduces anxiety, and deepens a sense of purpose. I am thrilled to join Great Barrington’s thriving business community and contribute to a retail destination where locals and visitors discover more in self-care.”

A soft opening will be held prior to Dec. 4, offering early access to explore the retail space and featured products. The Feel Good Haus will participate in Great Barrington’s Holiday Sip and Stroll on Saturday, Dec. 13, offering a free gift with purchase (while supplies last) and a window performance by Poppy DaBubbly of Drag Story Hour as Ms. Claus.

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WESTFIELD — Advantage Truck Group (ATG) in Westfield held a Veterans Day breakfast celebration to honor its employees who are veterans and active-duty service members, with employee members and managers coming together to cook the meals and show their appreciation to their colleagues.

“Our veterans and active military members are valuable members of the ATG team. We are proud to recognize them and extend our gratitude for their service, sacrifice, and dedication to our nation,” ATG President and CEO Kevin Holmes said.

ATG held Veterans Day breakfast celebrations at each of its eight locations across New England.

Nearly 15% of ATG’s employees are veterans and active military members, and the company’s designation as a Military-Friendly Gold Employer reflects its ranking among top employers for recruiting, retaining, and advancing military service members and veterans.

ATG provides transitional career opportunities for both veterans and active-duty military that leverage their skills and experiences, in roles from diesel technicians, shop foremen, and service advisors to training, warehouse, and facilities positions. The company also offers paid technician apprenticeships across its dealer locations as well as ongoing education and certification classes at its dedicated training center.

Throughout the year, ATG supports veterans through its Haulin’ 4 Hunger program, donating fresh meals to Veterans Inc., the largest provider of support services to veterans and their families in New England. ATG is also a member of the Employer Support of Guard and Reserve.

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HADLEY — DESCO announced the launch of DESCO Dental Service, expanding its commitment to patient care and safety into the growing field of dental equipment repair and maintenance.

Dental technology repair is now recognized as part of the healthcare technology management (HTM) industry — a move that acknowledges the vital role dental systems play in overall healthcare delivery. Demand for skilled dental repair professionals has grown significantly across the country as dental practices face the same challenges hospitals and biomedical departments encounter: maintaining reliable equipment to ensure safe and effective patient care.

To lead this new venture, DESCO recently welcomed Ryan Archambault, a veteran with 30 years of experience in the dental industry. He joined DESCO this month and has already proven to be an invaluable in-house resource and external ambassador, strengthening DESCO’s presence and expertise in the dental market.

DESCO has also partnered with Uptime Health to develop a sustainable and growth-focused division that will advance workforce development opportunities in field service. Through collaboration with Darrine Miller and her team at Uptime, DESCO is building training programs, business development initiatives, and technician resources designed to create career pathways for new entrants into the field.

“What excites me most is that working within dental creates accessibility and an expedient training pathway for high school students and seasoned professionals looking for a career transition with healthy living wages with healthcare and retirement benefits,” DESCO CEO Andrea Bordenca said. “We see we can provide this for our community members near and far as we grow. Dental repair provides a more expedient training pathway because, unlike surgery centers and hospitals, all dental operatories use similar equipment — dental chairs, delivery systems, compressors, and sterilizers — so we can streamline technician education into a three-month program. This allows us to develop skilled professionals faster, supporting both the industry and our communities.”

Currently, DESCO is expanding its dental services across New England, focusing on Hartford, Conn., as well as Springfield, Worcester, and Boston. DESCO is also in conversations to expand in Miami and Jacksonville. Fla; Raleigh, N.C.; and Atlanta in 2026. Early results have been encouraging, reflecting immense market demand for qualified dental field service technicians.

As growth continues, DESCO is committed to fostering opportunities for individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. Plans are underway for an internship program offering hands-on experience and exposure to the field, with full-time roles that include healthcare benefits and competitive salaries. DESCO Dental Service represents not only market expansion, but also a meaningful contribution to workforce development and the future of healthcare technology management.