Springfield Chamber Players to Open Season at 52 Sumner on Oct. 26

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Chamber Players (SCP) will launch their 2025-26 season at 52 Sumner on Sunday, Oct. 26, at 3 p.m. Alexander Svensen, assistant principal bass of the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, will perform works by Bach, Bartók, Dragonetti, and more. He will be joined by Romina Kostare, violinist with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra, and Patrick Berry, radio and TV personality, on select pieces.

This will be the second season for the Springfield Chamber Players at 52 Sumner and will feature more musicians of the SCP in this five-concert series. Another series at the Westfield Athenaeum, as well as a partnership with the Springfield Youth Orchestras, are planned for this season.

Six-Point Strategy Announces Launch of Next Gen Summit on Nov. 5

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Daily News

HADLEY — Six-Point Strategy announced the launch of its first Next Gen Summit, a one-day retreat designed for emerging leaders in family businesses. The event will be held on Tuesday, Nov. 5 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Venture Way in Hadley.

The summit is built around the unique challenges of succession and generational leadership. Next generation leaders have the difficult task of navigating the ‘in-between’ space, shaping the future of their companies while still carrying the weight of family legacy. Participants will gain tools, frameworks, and connections to help them lead with confidence and authenticity.

“Family business leadership is unlike anything else,” said Meghan Lynch, CEO of Six-Point Strategy. “The stakes are high, the dynamics are complex, and the path forward isn’t always clear. The Next Gen Summit creates a rare space where emerging leaders can step out of the day-to-day, wrestle with those challenges openly, and leave with tools, connections, and confidence.”

The event will be facilitated by three leaders with deep expertise in family business, leadership, and strategy:

• Lynch has built a national reputation as a consultant and speaker on generational branding. Under her leadership, Six-Point has evolved from a creative agency into a strategy-first brand advisory specializing in family business succession, growth, and reputation. She has spoken at major family business centers across the U.S., including Prairie Family Business Assoc., the Jim Walcott Family Enterprise Center, and the University of St. Thomas Family Business Center.

• Ira Bryck, founder and longtime director of the UMass Amherst Family Business Center, has coached and advised hundreds of family businesses over his 25-year tenure. He is also the author of three plays on family business dynamics, which have been performed nationally and internationally as ‘living case studies.’

• Joshua Hornick, director of the Hornick School for Coaching, is a professional certified coach with nearly two decades of experience working with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and organizations worldwide. A former corporate lawyer and nonprofit director, he brings both strategic insight and a deep commitment to helping individuals unlock their full potential.

“The Next Gen Summit is a chance to bring next-generation leaders together with experts who have lived these challenges from every angle,” Lynch said. “We wanted to create a space where participants can find their own leadership voice, test their instincts, and connect with peers who truly ‘get it.’ Ira and Josh bring such deep intention and expertise to both the event design and the content. They are both experts who are recognized globally, and who are excited to offer their talents and insights to this next generation of leaders in our own backyard.”

Summit highlights include “Leadership Styles” (balancing authenticity with authority), “The Power of Being Different” (why differentiation matters more than excellence), “Family-ness in Business” (using family culture as a superpower), and “Peer Learning” (shared conversations on succession and influence).

The program is designed to be intimate and highly interactive, ensuring every participant has a voice. Space is limited, and early bird registration is open through Oct. 3 at a discounted rate of $395. Standard tickets are $495. For more information or to register, visit sixpointstrategy.com/nextgensummit.

Way Finders to Release Findings from Western Mass. Housing Study

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Way Finders and its research partner, the UMass Donahue Institute, will release findings from “Building Homes. Building Futures.” — its first-ever housing study to cover Berkshire, Franklin, Hampshire, and Hampden counties — at an event on Thursday, Oct. 1 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center in Springfield.

“Our research confirms that Western Massachusetts is facing a severe housing shortage. Although the region is more affordable than other parts of the state, incomes are lower and remain out of sync with prevailing home prices, burdening households. This burden is especially acute for low-income, renter, and BIPOC households,” said Mark Melnik, director of the Economic & Public Policy Research group at the UMass Amherst Donahue Institute.

Western Mass. needs 23,000 new housing units to meet current demand. Even with projected declines in population locally, the gap will still be more than 16,700 units by 2035. The report, along with its online interactive data dashboards, provides Western Mass. communities with information to address this crisis.

“Housing is at the center of our region’s economic future,” said Keith Fairey, Way Finders president and CEO. “The answer to the housing crisis is clear: we need to build more homes. Housing promotes thriving communities and helps grow businesses and stronger schools. ‘Building Homes. Building Futures.’ provides the critical information our communities need to understand the housing crisis and to create the solutions we need.”

‘A Night in Italy’ on Oct. 11 Kicks Off SSO’s 2025-26 Season

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Symphony Orchestra’s (SSO) opening night on Saturday, Oct. 11, “A Night in Italy,” will feature music from The Godfather, cannolis, wine, and much more at Springfield Symphony Hall.

Tickets for opening night and season subscriptions are available at springfieldsymphony.org or by calling the SSO box office at (413) 733-2291.

Concertgoers are invited to purchase tickets to an Italian-themed pre-concert reception at 6 p.m. in the Mahogany Room, hosted in partnership with Springfield’s Italian Cultural Center. The reception will feature sweets and treats from local Italian eateries La Fiorentina and Frigo’s, and a sampling of Italian wines paired with a charcuterie board. Limited tickets are available for the pre-concert reception, which are $25, and should be reserved in advance at springfieldsymphony.org or by calling (413) 733-2291.

There will also be a classical conversation with guest conductor and SSO Artistic Advisor Mei-Ann Chen starting at 6:30 p.m. in the hall.

“A Night in Italy: Verdi, Respighi, & Rota” will be highlighted by “The Godfather Orchestral Suite,” exciting fans of the movie franchise. The audience will also witness a meaningful collaboration with members of the Springfield Symphony Youth Orchestras performing alongside the SSO musicians.

Opening night will also honor the memory of Ron Weiss, a long-serving member of the SSO board of directors who passed away earlier this year.

According to Heather Caisse-Roberts, president and CEO of the SSO, “Springfield has such deep-rooted, rich Italian history, and so we’re thrilled that our opening night not only offers our community the opportunity to experience iconic Italian music, but also to experience Italian culture through our partnership with the Italian Cultural Center. We invite concertgoers to come before the concert to a reception in the Mahogany Room, featuring some of the amazing Italian offerings we’re lucky to have right here in Springfield, including delicious eats from Frigo’s and La Fiorentina.”

Established in 1985, the Italian Cultural Center of Western Massachusetts was founded to promote and celebrate Italian culture and heritage in all its aspects, bringing various Italian cultural groups under one umbrella. It promotes Italian language, music lessons, scholarship, and exchange students. Its original location was on Acushnet Ave., and in 2008, the center moved to its current location at 56 Margaret St.

The SSO’s 2025-26 season, its 82nd, will offer eight performances at Springfield Symphony Hall, filled with a blend of classics, audience favorites, and fresh repertoire. This season will provide audiences with new formats and creative programming, responding to the community’s desire to feature more pops and hybrid (blending classical and pop) performances. MassMutual and Massachusetts Cultural Council are the season sponsors for the 2025-26 season.

UMass Amherst Will Intensify Focus on Economic Development

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Features

Doubling Down

UMass Amherst has always been an economic engine for the region, and officials there want it to be even more of a force.

Tony Maroulis says UMass Amherst has always been focused on regional economic development, and it has always been an economic engine within the 413 and often well beyond, from its own large workforce to providing interns for area businesses, to concepts that are taken from its labs to the marketplace.

But now, the flagship campus of the state university is … well, let’s call it sharpening and broadening that focus, said Maroulis, executive director of Community and Strategic Initiatives for the university.

“It’s an emphasis on economic development that we perhaps haven’t put on it in the past,” he explained, referencing an announcement by UMass Amherst Chancellor Javier Reyes at the university’s annual Community Breakfast late last month — specifically, the launch of an initiative to leverage the full breadth of the university’s expertise, talent, innovation, and partnerships to spur job creation, entrepreneurship, and community revitalization, as well as workforce and small business development locally, regionally, and across the state.

“As the state’s flagship public university, UMass Amherst has a responsibility to serve as a catalyst for economic development at the local, regional, and statewide levels,” Reyes said at the breakfast. “Embracing this responsibility creates important opportunities for programming, analysis, and collaboration that can foster more inclusive, resilient, and innovation-driven growth across the Commonwealth.”

When asked about the initiative’s goals, how they will be addressed, and how success will be measured, Maroulis started by saying virtually everything the university does has an economic development component.

“Whether it’s our sporting events, which have an economic impact on the community, to the construction on our campus, to the graduates we place in the workforce — all of that is economic development,” he said. “What the chancellor is interested in us doing at this particular time is being a more active participant in the economic development efforts of our local communities, our region, and also the state.

Javier Reyes

Javier Reyes

“As the state’s flagship public university, UMass Amherst has a responsibility to serve as a catalyst for economic development at the local, regional, and statewide levels.”

“This means being a more visible player in these conversations that happen in all three places,” Maroulis went on, “and contributing with our expertise and with the faculty and staff, researchers, and students that we have here in that economic development discussion.”

Elaborating, he said Reyes has essentially challenged the campus community to “wake up thinking about economic development, how we impact those three spheres — local, regional, and state — and how we can increase that impact.”

 

Ambitious Goals

Overall, the announced initiative, to be guided by an executive committee consisting of senior campus leadership, will have several principal goals, including:

• Collaborating with communities to address challenges and opportunities around housing, healthcare, transportation, and services to overall infrastructure;

• Advising university leadership on strategies, partnerships, and investments that expand economic development impact with local, regional, and statewide focus;

• Identifying opportunities for university collaboration with industry, government, nonprofits, and community organizations.

• Providing input on and supporting the growth of university initiatives encouraging workforce development, entrepreneurship, innovation, and applied and translational research;

• Offering recommendations on policies, programs, and practices that promote resilient, innovative, and inclusive economic growth;

• Driving investment to the region and across the Commonwealth;

• Supporting strategic initiatives critical to the Commonwealth’s future;

• Creating talent pipelines for study, internships, and employment for the region and the state; and

• Cultivating research capacity with economic development priorities.

Assessing this list, Maroulis said there are many things the university is already doing within these various realms.

Examples include the recent announcement that the university will partner with Baystate Health to create SHINE: Strengthening Healthcare Innovation through Nursing and Engineering. Funded with a $3 million grant from the National Science Foundation, the initiative will establish the nation’s first graduate training program designed to combine nursing’s hands-on patient care with engineering’s technical knowledge.

Tony Maroulis

Tony Maroulis

“Our workforce development career pathways work … we do that locally, regionally, and statewide. We want to create deeper engagement with industry so there’s more opportunity for students to have pathways to jobs post-graduation and to have access to internships.”

The goal moving forward will be to simply ramp up such efforts. This will be the case with issues as disparate as workforce development and the state’s housing crisis.

“Our workforce development career pathways work … we do that locally, regionally, and statewide,” Maroulis said. “We want to create deeper engagement with industry so there’s more opportunity for students to have pathways to jobs post-graduation and to have access to internships. These are things the chancellor would like to see us do even better than we do it now.”

As for the housing crisis, the those involved with the initiative will look at how the university can better work with municipalities on land use reform and infrastructure development to develop critically needed new housing.

That housing would benefit the university, its staff, and students, but also the region’s business community by giving their workforce access to more housing — specifically more affordable housing.

Other issues to be addressed include transportation and childcare, he went on, adding that there are barriers to opportunities for university students and area residents alike.

“These are the kinds of issues that we will be engaged in, both as a thought partner and sometimes as a thought leader, and as an advocate with other organizations and agencies in the region that are working on these kinds of issues.”

 

Collective Engagement

One key to the initiative’s success will be its council, made up of officials from across the university, including representatives of the Isenberg School of Management, the Berthiaume Center, the Mount Ida campus, Government Relations, the Donahue Institute, the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center, and the Institute for Applied Life Sciences.

The council will work with a leadership team — Maroulis; Sundar Krishnamurty, vice provost for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Creativity; and Carl Rust, assistant vice chancellor for Corporate Engagement — to recommend priorities and track progress.

This will be an ongoing initiative, meaning it’s not necessarily a five-year or 10-year plan, said Maroulis, but one that will seek some “quick wins,” as he called them, but also focus on the long term.

When asked how success will be measured, he said there will be several metrics and yardsticks, everything from growth of the current $2.9 billion in direct and indirect impact on the state’s economy to increases in local purchasing, to the number of startups created at the university and the jobs that result.

“The chancellor believes that we have a responsibility to serve as a catalyst for economic development,” he went on while summing up the initiative, adding that the university has always been that.

The mission moving forward is to take it to a new, more impactful level.

Bill Collins Reflects on a Satisfying Culinary Journey

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Where Are They Now?

Where are they now?

Seventeen years after being honored among the 40 Under Forty, Bill Collins says he hasn’t lost any of the enjoyment he gets from seeing people enjoy good food — and each other.

Seventeen years after being honored among the 40 Under Forty, Bill Collins says he hasn’t lost any of the enjoyment he gets from seeing people enjoy good food — and each other.

When BusinessWest caught up with Bill Collins this month at his East Longmeadow restaurant, Center Square Grill, he was about to head over to the Big E. It’s a relationship that started in 2014 when the director of the fair’s agricultural programs asked him to stop by.

“She said, ‘hey, I’ve got a group of 4-Hers, and I’ve got some lamb. Any chance you’d come in and cook a recipe?’ So I did that. And 11 years later, I’ve surpassed 96,000 samples of recipes that I’ve cooked there and given away. Every day of the fair from 11 to 1:30-2, I go in, get on a microphone, and cook a dish, and all the dishes I prepare are from local farms around New England.

“It has become a little bit of a passion for me,” Collins went on. “It’s a cool experience to be able to take somebody who might not understand the economics of where the money goes in the community if you buy local, versus at the big box store, and the differences in the meat. To be able to talk about that stuff is pretty cool.”

The same year he started demonstrating recipes at the Big E, Collins opened Center Square Grill, which was a success out of the gate and has remained so, albeit not without some challenges, from the difficult pandemic years to the current inflationary landscape that has made everything more expensive, to a sprinkler system that malfunctioned last year and shut the place down for a few months — followed by a fight with the insurance company.

“We paid all of our front of the house and back of the house employees for eight weeks while we were shut. And I paid the employees in the front the average of their tips as well, because we felt there was some gray area in the way our policy was written, and we felt that we could get paid back for that,” Collins said.

“When I talked to my wife, I said, ‘listen, we’re going to do this, and I’m scared because it’s a lot of money.’ But if we didn’t, the employee market was so competitive at that point. And everybody was so well-trained that if we didn’t do that, you know, it wouldn’t have been two months we were closed — it would be more like six by the time we hired, retrained, and everything.”

So Collins cashed in a retirement policy to pay his staff in full, and when the insurance company initially refused to cover the tip pay, he stood firm and made it clear he’d fight that decision — and eventually was reimbursed for all of it.

“What was the alternative? Center Square Grill goes away for six months, right? Nobody wins there,” he recalled.

When Collins was named to BusinessWest’s second-ever 40 Under Forty class in 2008, he was 28 years old, working as director of Operations in the Spoleto Restaurant Group, overseeing six dining locations owned by noted restaurateur Claudio Guerra.

“You know, it’s funny — when I met Claudio, I was 19 years old, and I didn’t have two nickels to rub together, but I always envisioned being in business for myself. I was always a hustler,” Collins recalled.

“I don’t believe I actually deserved to win that award in 2008,” he added. “I think now I do; we’ve accomplished a lot. But I don’t know that I was fit to be in that group of people at that point, but I’m still appreciative — it was an awesome honor.

“But at that point, I was definitely thinking about being on my own. And when I did go on my own, I probably wasn’t economically in the right position to give it a shot, but when is the right time, you know? You eventually have to go for it. And it had been in the back of my head since I was a kid.”

The original vision for Center Square Grill was a creative American eatery with multiple culinary influences, where people would want to visit more than once a week.

“We didn’t want to be too specific. Everybody in town already had their favorite Italian place, they already had their favorite Chinese place. What I felt was lacking was a quality, slightly upscale version of a tavern — a place where you can get a burger and a beer or come in for a date night for steak and oysters.”

“We didn’t want to be too specific. Everybody in town already had their favorite Italian place, they already had their favorite Chinese place. What I felt was lacking was a quality, slightly upscale version of a tavern — a place where you can get a burger and a beer or come in for a date night for steak and oysters.”

These days, Collins employs around 90 people at his businesses, most of them at Center Square. He also owns a percentage of Barburrito in Ludlow, and is a partner in Hawks Landing, a farm in East Longmeadow that the owners plan to use for everything from pumpkins, apples, and a corn maze in the fall to an activity space for community events — while producing farm-fresh produce for their various other businesses, which include One Way Brewing in Longmeadow. He also recently launched a food, travel, and lifestyle TV show on WWLP called The Food Explorer.

Meanwhile, “my wife and I know that the restaurant business is tumultuous. So we decided to live on a fixed income from the restaurant, and anything extra that we earn, we’ve developed into a real estate company. We have about 20 doors in this area for rentals, and a lot of our employees actually live in them. And we continue to be on the hunt for quality properties to add in the portfolio. That, I think, might eventually be bigger than my other businesses.”

Bill Collins said Center Square Grill was an immediate success, but has had its share of challenges, from the pandemic to last year’s sprinkler malfunction.

Bill Collins said Center Square Grill was an immediate success, but has had its share of challenges, from the pandemic to last year’s sprinkler malfunction.

Like he was mentored under Guerra and others in his younger years, he takes pride in seeing his own employees spread their wings, like Andrew Brow, who started working with Collins at age 16 and eventually struck out on his own with a series of area restaurants (and 40 Under Forty honors himself in 2023).

“It’s been a cool journey,” Collins said. “I always say it’s one part luck, it’s one part hard work and smarts, and it’s one part being in the right position and knowing the right people.”

As for what he enjoys most about coming to work each day, Collins may have put it best during a visit last year to the BusinessWest podcast, BusinessTalk.

“It’s the people,” he told us. “When I sit back in the corner of a restaurant that I’ve built and I see people enjoying themselves and having this little bit of escapism going on — whether they got a babysitter and they’re having a date night or they’re celebrating a birthday or an anniversary — and the whole vibe is good, the music’s spot on, the lights are right, the food is good, and I just see two people so happy together, enjoying their night … that’s what does it for me. I love giving people that small escape, even if it’s just for an hour.”

Region Woos Events with Affordability, Accessibility, Attractions

By
Co-hosted by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, along with Chris and Deb Connelly, the event raised funds to directly support ongoing research and initiatives to find a cure for T1D.
Tourism & Hospitality

Meeting Expectations

It’s called the Assoc. of Rural and Small Libraries, or the ARSL.

As that name suggests, its mission is to “build strong communities through advocacy, professional development, and elevating the impact of rural and small libraries.”

Its members were in Albuquerque last week for the group’s annual conference. But a year ago, they were in Springfield, some 1,400 of them.

This is a national association that takes that annual conference to every corner of the country, said Alicia Szenda, vice president of Sales for the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau, now doing business as Explore Western Mass, adding that it will likely be several years before it returns to the Northeast and maybe several more before it comes back to the City of Homes.

But there’s a decent chance it will — because the group liked what it saw, everything from a library with some architectural significance to an attraction that can’t be found in New Mexico or anywhere else.

“They couldn’t have been more thrilled with the fact that Dr. Seuss was from Springfield and there’s a Seuss museum here,” said Szenda, adding that ARSL typifies the type of group this region is trying to attract, and its reasons for coming here point to why the past fiscal year (July 1 to June 30) was a good one for the 413 when it came to both hosting meetings and conventions, and, even more importantly, putting events on the books for the next several years.

Alicia Szenda

Alicia Szenda

“They couldn’t have been more thrilled with the fact that Dr. Seuss was from Springfield and there’s a Seuss museum here.”

Indeed, just five years after COVID devastated the conventions sector, it has made a nearly full recovery, said Mary Kay Wydra, longtime president of Explore Western Mass, adding that, by and large, meetings and conventions have returned to in-person affairs.

And this region is more than holding its own in the increasingly competitive climate for gatherings large and small, with the main competition for those eyeing the Northeast coming from Hartford, Conn. and Providence, R.I., but also Boston for some shows, as well as Worcester, Lowell, Manchester, N.H., and other cities. For national groups, there is obviously much more competition, said Wydra, adding that this region bumps up often against such cities as Des Moines, Iowa and Harrisburg, Pa.

As it has for years now, the region continues to try to sell event planners on what Szenda and Wydra call the ‘3 A’s’ — affordability, accessibility, and attractions.

Affordability comes in many forms, but especially a $169 hotel room rate, on average, for groups, which is far less than Boston and competitive with those other cities listed above. Accessibility refers to the region’s proximity to several major highways (for groups that will drive to their meetings), but also a location that makes it convenient for residents of all six New England states and New York. As for attractions, the Seuss Museum and MGM Springfield now give the region more selling points in addition to the Basketball Hall of Fame, Six Flags, and other destinations.

For this issue and its focus on travel and tourism, we talked with Szenda and Wydra about the region’s ongoing efforts to attract meetings and conventions and the dollars they bring to several different sectors of the local economy.

 

Staying Power

The state’s Democrats staged their annual convention in Springfield earlier this month.

Most business was conducted over a Saturday, but still, more than 300 hotel rooms were booked for the gathering, said Wydra, adding that the Democrats meet in different Bay State cities on a rotating basis.

Such return business — and this region sees a good amount of it — is one of the keys to long-term success in this business, she said, adding that another is getting in front of groups and making a pitch for the 413.

Mary Kay Wydra

Mary Kay Wydra

“When we saw it, we said, ‘we know we can do an amazing job of hosting this event,’ and we started working then and there to push the Commonwealth to come west.”

And the team at Explore Western Mass has been making more of these pitches, which is indicative of the aggressive nature of its pursuit of convention business, but also stronger interest in this region and those 3 A’s.

“In fiscal ’25, we had more site visits than we did the year before,” Szenda said. “And those are so important to us because we find that, once meeting planners and event right holders come to the area and see what we have to offer and meet the teams everywhere, we have a really good conversion rate.”

In fact, she noted, 75% of those groups who came to this region for a site visit wound up booking their event here.

“That’s a great number,” she said, adding that it can be attributed to several factors, from the region’s affordable character to the strong customer service provided by the team at Explore Western Mass, to the fact that the Convention Center Carpark was nearing completion and is now open, making downtown Springfield much easier to navigate.

“Opening the parking garage is huge,” she said, adding that the carpark and the new space next to it called the Landing gives the city and this region another strong selling point.

Szenda was pushing these points at the recent Destination East trade show in Providence, attended by groups looking to meet in the eastern part of the country.

“We had planners from Florida up to Maine, all the way up the coast,” she explained. “I’ve already had several conversations since I left Providence with some meeting planners and have received some opportunities for business specific to Western Mass.”

And there is already a solid number of meetings and conventions on the books for the next few months and years, a mix of new and repeat business that includes the New England Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine, the Massachusetts Health Officers Assoc., Yankee Security’s annual trade show (coming in October), the New England Grooming Show (a dog grooming competition coming back for a third year in Springfield), the Steubenville East Youth Conference, New England Regional Volleyball (slated for next February), a variety of regional dance and cheer events, the Ironman triathlon, and more.

Putting more events in the pipeline, the goal of every city and region, often comes down to making a strong case, and then, when an event comes here, helping to make sure things run smoothly, said Wydra, adding that communication is key, as is working with groups on issues such as the closed parking garage.

Both ends of the equation were on display with a gathering of the Governors Conference on Travel and Tourism, an event that was resurrected by the Healey administration after not being held for several years.

The first conference was staged in Boston, said Wydra, and while attending that gathering, those at Explore Western Mass became determined to bring it here — and they did.

“When we saw it, we said, ‘we know we can do an amazing job of hosting this event,’ and we started working then and there to push the Commonwealth to come west,” she told BusinessWest. “Alicia put together a great response to their request for proposals, and we did a lot of hospitality. We wanted to showcase to the Office and Travel and Tourism and all the people in our industry how we service visitors. The amenities we offer when a pet groomer comes or the rural librarians come, we did for the guests of the governor’s conference.

“And we got high marks on the survey after the conference for all those extra steps,” she went on, adding that these good scores are common and help explain why the region often stands out in the crowded field for meetings and conventions, and why there is so much repeat business. “We’re competing with other destinations all the time, so the little stuff really matters.”

 

Drawing Conclusions

As noted earlier, the rural librarians may not return to Springfield and the Seuss Museum for several years, given the many areas of the country it will visit for its annual conference.

But they liked what they saw, and they gave the 413 high marks for its hospitality. This is all a region can hope to do as it brings groups in for their gatherings — make a solid impression that will bring them back.

This formula has helped Western Mass. make a full recovery from the pandemic when it comes to meetings and conventions — and create some real optimism for the years to come.

New Guide Helps Construction Professionals Protect Soil Health

By Contributor
Construction

From the Ground Up

Regenerative Design Group, a landscape architecture firm based in Greenfield, recently announced that the Massachusetts Healthy Soils Guide for Site Design and Construction is now live at masshealthysoils.org.

Developed by the Regenerative Design Group and its collaborators, with support from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, this online guide provides practical, site-specific strategies for protecting and enhancing soil health, as well as increasing carbon sequestration, throughout all phases of land development.

Soil health is vital to climate resilience, food security, and ecosystem function, but it’s often overlooked in conventional construction practices, both residential and commercial, said Rachel Lindsay, senior designer at Regenerative Design Group.

“Landscapes are the only element of the built environment that have the potential to provide ongoing carbon sequestration after the completion of a project,” she explained. “This guide provides clear, actionable guidance on how typical activities such as excavation or soil stockpiling can be adjusted to better protect and maximize the amount of soil organic carbon retained throughout the construction process.”

The Massachusetts Healthy Soils Action Plan (HSAP), the state’s first-in-the-nation framework for protecting and restoring soil function across all land uses, identifies soil organic carbon (SOC) as the cornerstone of healthy soil functions. The living carbon component of soil increases drought resilience, mitigates flooding, filters sediments and pollutants, and supports vigorous plant and tree growth.

Rachel Lindsay

Rachel Lindsay

“Preserving and enhancing healthy soils during the construction process may have the greatest positive impact on the long-term health of the soil and soil organic carbon accumulation over the life of the project.”

“Preserving and enhancing healthy soils during the construction process may have the greatest positive impact on the long-term health of the soil and soil organic carbon accumulation over the life of the project,” Lindsay said.

Every time soil is disturbed, SOC is transformed into carbon dioxide and lost back into the air. The building sector is the second-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions in Massachusetts, accounting for 35%.

The difference developers and construction professionals can make is significant: there is roughly twice the amount of land in turf and ornamental landscapes in Massachusetts as there is in agricultural land. Small shifts in design and management practices — such as planting 25% of open lawn with trees, and increasing organic matter content in the top eight inches of lawns to a minimum of 3% — could sequester an additional 180,000 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per year, the same as taking over 38,000 gas-powered passenger vehicles off the road.

The Healthy Soils Guide for Site Design and Construction offers tools and strategies for implementing ‘soil-smart’ practices that improve healthy soil outcomes before, during, and after construction projects. The website also features access to the full HSAP, a curated resource library, events, and industry engagement and adaptation efforts. More than 360,000 additional acres of soil in Massachusetts may be impacted by development over the next 35 years, a critical period that could impact the trajectory of net carbon emissions in the state.

“This guide is designed to meet professionals where they are, whether they’re managing a construction site, developing soil specifications, or planning a resilient landscape,” Lindsay said. “It’s about making soil health easier to understand and implement across real-world projects.”

The guide is the result of a multi-firm collaboration led by Regenerative Design Group, Linnean Solutions, BSC Group, and Sasaki, with industry support from A.D. Makepeace, Read Custom Soils, and others. Funding was made possible through a $99,900 Healthy Soils Challenge Grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs.

Regenerative Design Group is a worker-owned ecological design practice. Since 2009, it has advanced resilient communities and landscapes through regenerative design, planning, and nature-based solutions.

Legislation Creates Unequal Tax Treatment for Gambling Losses

By Contributor
Accounting and Tax Planning

Out of Luck

By Adam Hoffer, Garrett Watson,
and Jacob Macumber-Rosin

 

In a surprising tax code alteration that has frustrated Americans who enjoy gambling, a provision in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) limits gambling losses that can be used to offset gambling winnings to 90% of their value. This provision, which previously allowed for 100% deductibility of losses against winnings, introduces a steep tax penalty for professional gamblers and certain casual bettors.

The OBBBA provision limiting the deduction of gambling losses might cause individuals to owe taxes on imaginary income, incentivizing gamblers succeeding on thin margins to exit the U.S. or participate in illicit markets.

While the Joint Committee on Taxation estimated that the deduction limit would generate $1.1 billion in tax revenue over eight years, behavioral responses and tax avoidance could quickly reverse that effect. If only a fraction of professional gamers take their bets outside of legal U.S. markets, the effect will be a net loss to tax collections and an increase in illegal activity.

“The OBBBA provision limiting the deduction of gambling losses might cause individuals to owe taxes on imaginary income, incentivizing gamblers succeeding on thin margins to exit the U.S. or participate in illicit markets.”

Consider Daniel Negreanu, perhaps the most famous poker player in the world. Thanks to his vlog and public tracking of poker payouts, we can estimate his tax burden under various tax designs. He successfully nets profitable payouts from his poker playing most years, though he notably lost $2.2 million in 2023.

In the 2025 World Series of Poker (WSOP), Negreanu won (cashed) $1,478,240. His buy-ins for the 2025 WSOP totaled $1,297,143, for net winnings of $181,097. Under pre-OBBBA policy, he would pay income tax on that $181,097, and, assuming his income is taxed at 37% (the highest income tax bracket), his income tax liability would be $67,006, resulting in take-home pay of $114,091.

When his post-OBBBA losses are limited to 90%, however, his tax liability jumps to $115,000, and his take-home pay is cut nearly in half to $66,097.

The new limit for loss deductions in the OBBBA would result in any gambler who breaks even now taking a net loss after paying taxes on money they never made. For example, the tax liability for a player who breaks even on $1 million of wagers would increase from $0 to $37,000. A player who nets $50,000 in winnings from $1 million in wagers — a profitable gambling season — would end up owing $55,500 in taxes to the IRS, resulting in negative take-home pay and an effective tax rate of more than 100%. This would create a unique precedent of taxing unrealized income.

Standard accounting practices allow for full deductibility of most business expenses, but it is worth noting that some limitations apply to things like meals and entertainment expenses and excessive corporate officer compensation. These limitations are fundamentally different from the proposed 90% wagering loss limitation, though. Traditional deductibility limits are largely designed to discourage abusive corporate behavior among large companies. In contrast, the new wagering loss cap primarily affects individual taxpayers who are engaged in a legal, heavily regulated activity.

 

Broad Impact

The impact of the new loss deduction limitation will likely be felt by individuals beyond Las Vegas. Seven states (Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Delaware, Connecticut, and Rhode Island) have legalized online gambling, while popular land-based commercial or tribal casinos can be found in nearly every state, including Massachusetts. State tax revenues from online gaming, nearly $3 billion in 2024, will also be affected if gamblers change behavior.

Unpacking why this change was made may help explain why legislation to reverse this provision has bipartisan support, including some members of Congress who voted in support of the broader OBBBA.

In the Senate, the Byrd Rule requires that all measures in a reconciliation bill have a significant budgetary impact. In the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), Congress amended Sec. 165 of the Internal Revenue Code so that professional gamblers could no longer deduct non-wagering business expenses (e.g., hotel rooms, meals, and transportation) from their gambling winnings. This change aligned the tax treatment of professional gamblers with that of casual gamblers.

With that TCJA provision scheduled to expire in 2026, Senate tax writers were forced to make an adjustment to Sec. 165 in the 2025 reconciliation bill to generate a sufficient budgetary impact. Lowering the deductibility threshold to 90% satisfied the Byrd Rule. The original House-passed reconciliation bill, which did not have to comply with the Byrd Rule, did not include this provision.

If the change to gambling deductibility was primarily procedurally driven — and easy to overlook in legislation as substantial as the OBBBA — a reversal of this provision could make for better fiscal policy. In the House, lawmakers are co-sponsoring the bipartisan Fair Accounting for Income Realized from Betting Earnings Taxation (FAIR BET) Act, introduced by U.S. Rep. Dina Titus and co-sponsored by U.S. Rep. Guy Reschenthaler. U.S. Rep. Andy Barr separately introduced the Winnings and Gains Expense Restoration (WAGER) Act.

In the other chamber, U.S. Sens. Catherine Cortez-Masto, Ted Cruz, and Jacky Rosen introduced the Facilitating Useful Loss Limitations to Help Our Unique Service Economy (FULL HOUSE) Act.

When Congress back in session and Americans eagerly placing bets on their favorite football teams, congressional efforts to restore full gambling deductions will likely be an early priority. And rightfully so: full deductibility of gambling losses is a sound tax policy that would make the treatment of gambling winnings and expenses more neutral.

 

 

 

MGM Donates $15,000 to Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity

By
Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity (GSHFH) announced the MGM Foundation has donated $10,000 as a 2026 program partner, and MGM Springfield gave an additional $5,000. These funds support GSHFH’s mission to provide safe, affordable housing in Hampden County.

In addition, MGM will serve as a platinum sponsor for Habitat’s upcoming Family Fun Fest on Saturday, Oct. 5, and participate in Habitat Build Days on Thursday, Sept. 25 and Friday, Sept. 26.

The Family Fun Fest promises a day of games, activities, and community celebration, bringing together families and supporters to raise awareness and funds for affordable housing. MGM’s sponsorship will help ensure a successful event while directly supporting Habitat’s ongoing homeownership and home preservation programs.

“MGM’s commitment to our mission demonstrates the power of community partnerships in making affordable housing a reality,” GSHFH Executive Director Aimee Giroux said. “We are grateful for their support and for joining us on a Build Day to make a tangible difference for local families.”

During the Build Days on Sept. 25 and 26, MGM employees will work alongside Habitat staff and community members to help construct and improve homes, contributing hands-on support to families in need.

“MGM Springfield is a proud partner to the city of Springfield and its ongoing commitment to sustainable housing and city beautification,” said Jennifer McGrath, Philanthropy and Community Engagement director at MGM Springfield. “Since opening our doors, we have supported the Greater Springfield Habitat for Humanity in an effort to create safe, affordable housing for local families through volunteering, grants, and sponsorships.”

Bay Path University Recognized by U.S. News & World Report for Social Mobility

By
Daily News

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University has been ranked 16th on U.S. News & World Report’s annual list of Top Performers for Social Mobility in the North. Bay Path is one of only two Massachusetts institutions to appear in the top 20.

The social mobility ranking measures how effectively colleges graduate economically disadvantaged students. Rankings are based on the percentage of Pell Grant recipients enrolled, their graduation rates, and how those rates compare to non-Pell-eligible students.

“Right now, there’s a lot of conversation about the value of a college degree. Throughout our 128-year history, Bay Path has remained committed to delivering affordable, workforce-aligned programs that ensure our graduates are career-ready. That has always been — and will continue to be — our educational model,” Bay Path President Sandra Doran said. “While many institutions are rethinking their approach to career readiness, we continue to refine our programs so that our learners graduate with the knowledge and skills to launch successful careers, advance throughout their professional lives, and get a return on all they’ve invested in their futures.”

In recent years, U.S. News & World Report’s Best Colleges rankings have drawn criticism for reinforcing exclusivity and inequality. Advocates point instead to the Social Mobility Index, which evaluates how well colleges educate students from families below the national median income and prepare them for meaningful, well-paying careers.

“We’ve upheld our commitment to offering a high-value education to students for whom a college degree is truly transformative,” Doran added. “To be recognized as a top performer for social mobility for five consecutive years underscores that commitment.”

Bigfoot Documentary ‘Hidden Creek’ to Be Screened at MCLA

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — The Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts Communications Department will present a screening and roundtable discussion of the unreleased Bigfoot documentary Hidden Creek on Friday, Oct. 3 at 4 p.m. in the Feigenbaum Center for Science and Innovation.

Created by professional filmographer Terry Holland, Hidden Creek delves into one man’s story about his run-in with Bigfoot in the 1970s. A crew of friends and researchers travel to the Colorado wilderness to retrace his steps, all to uncover whether the mysterious creature really exists.

Holland has years of experience in the film industry, including his work on the 2022 film Bodies, Bodies, Bodies with Pete Davidson.

This event is free and open to the public, but seats are limited. Secure a spot by registering at lnk.mcla.edu/hiddencreek.

Healthcare Heroes to Be Celebrated at Gala on Oct. 22

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Healthcare Heroes class of 2025 has been announced by BusinessWest and the Healthcare News. The awards gala will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 22 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Tickets cost $95 per person, and tables of 10 are available. Click here to make a reservation.

The this year’s Healthcare Heroes, which were profiled in the Sept. 15 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com and healthcarenews.com, are the Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit at Mercy Medical Center; Areliz Barbosa, clinical assistant professor and senior project coordinator at Bay Path University; Andrea Bertheaud, clinical assistant professor at Elms College; Chrissy Humason, nursing supervisor and stroke coordinator at Baystate Noble Hospital; Linda Koh, assistant professor in the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing at UMass Amherst; Cindy Leonard, infusion manager at Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center; Dr. Thomas Lincoln, physician and associate professor of Medicine at Baystate Health; and Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos, director of the Holyoke Medical Center Weight Management Program.

The ninth annual Healthcare Heroes program is presented by Baystate Health & Health New England and Elms College and sponsored by Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center and Holyoke Medical Center.

The Healthcare Heroes program was created in 2017 to honor the heroes working across the region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare and wellness sector. These leaders, innovators, and collaborators have devoted their careers to improving the quality of individual lives and the health of entire communities.

For more information, call Natasha Mercado-Santana, Marketing and Events Manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

Caroline Morrissey Named Executive Director of Irish Cultural Center

By
Daily News

Caroline Morrissey

WEST SPRINGFIELD — West Springfield native Caroline Morrissey has been named the first executive director of the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England (ICCWNE), bringing with her a wealth of global experience and a deep passion for Irish heritage.

Morrissey, a Colby College alumna, earned her master’s degree in international administration with a policy focus from the University of Denver. She spent nearly a decade working in post-conflict zones across Africa, most recently serving with President Carter’s the Carter Center in Liberia, before returning to Western Mass. just before the pandemic.

Since returning, she has been an active member of the ICCWNE’s events committee, where she founded the new book club — a now-thriving literary group that she continues to moderate monthly. In summer 2024, she took on a larger leadership role by joining the board of directors.

“It’s a privilege to serve as the ICCWNE’s first executive director, and I look forward to building on the strong foundation created by so many dedicated volunteers while expanding the ICCWNE’s reach, programs, and partnerships across Western New England,” Morrissey said.

The newly established executive director position is made possible in part through the support of the government of Ireland. Serving as the ICCWNE’s chief administrator, the executive director will oversee daily operations, guide the implementation of the strategic plan, and expand cultural programming and community reach.

ICCWNE President Sean Cahillane welcomed Morrissey to this new position, recognizing her dedication and breadth of experience.

“Caroline’s passion for cultural engagement, combined with her extensive international work and deep Irish roots, make her a tremendous addition to our leadership team,” Cahillane said. “She has already contributed so much to the ICCWNE, and we’re thrilled to have her guiding us into the future.”

Executive Vice President Ed Sullivan added that “the addition of Caroline to the ICCWNE as the executive director could not come at a better time. Caroline’s experience, along with her energy and passion to advance the Cultural Center as a local, regional, and international hub, is impressive. We are excited to have her on board.”

A lifelong traveler who has visited 50 countries, Morrissey takes immense pride in her Irish heritage, with family ties to County Galway, Westmeath, and Wexford. She is also the proud new mom of Mae, a beloved presence at ICCWNE and likely its youngest patron.

bankESB Supports Food Pantries with Neighbors Helping Neighbors Fundraiser

By
Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — Matthew Sosik, president and CEO of bankESB, is kicking off the bank’s 2025 Neighbors Helping Neighbors fundraising drive to help support local food pantries.

This marks the fifth year of the bank’s annual appeal, which invites bank customers, employees, and community members to donate money between Oct. 1 and Oct. 31 to help fight food insecurity. All donations up to $2,500 per customer will be matched dollar for dollar by bankESB, and the total raised will be divided among participating food pantries across Western Mass. in communities the bank serves. In 2024, through contributions and matching donations, the campaign raised $28,000, and since its inception, it has donated $137,000.

Donations of any amount are encouraged. As an added incentive to give, the bank offers those who donate the opportunity to enter a drawing for a $25 gift card, which will be awarded at each of its 11 locations.

“Our Neighbors Helping Neighbors programs exemplifies how communities can come together to help others in need,” Sosik said. “bankESB is proud to lead this annual giving tradition. We thank everyone who selflessly gives each year.”

Those who wish to participate have until Oct. 31 to make their donations. Checks should be made payable to “bankESB Neighbors” and can be dropped off at any bankESB branch or mailed to Margaret Prendergast, bankESB, 36 Main St., Easthampton, MA 01027.

A total of 14 food pantries will be supported this year, including Best Life Food Ministry, Agawam; BUCC Helping Hands Cupboard Food Pantry, Belchertown; Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen, Chicopee; Easthampton Community Center Food Pantry; Easthampton Congregational Church Food Cupboard & Oasis Kitchen; Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, Chicopee; Hadley Food Pantry; Hilltown Food Pantry, Goshen; Margaret’s Pantry, Holyoke; Neighbors Helping Neighbors Inc., South Hadley; Northampton Survival Center; Not Bread Alone, Amherst; Southampton Community Cupboard; and Westfield Soup Kitchen.

Smith College Ranked 10th in Best Value, 13th Among National Liberal Arts Colleges

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — U.S. News & World Report has once again recognized Smith College as a leader in access, affordability, and academic excellence. In its 2026 Best Colleges rankings, Smith is ranked 10th for Best Value and tied for 13th among National Liberal Arts Colleges.

The Best Value ranking highlights colleges that deliver outstanding academic quality at an affordable cost, taking into account the percentage of students who receive financial aid and the average net price of attendance. Smith is one of a handful of liberal arts colleges that meets the full demonstrated need of every enrolled undergraduate with financial aid packages that include grants and no loans.

This year, U.S. News evaluated more than 1,700 institutions using up to 17 measures of academic quality and graduate success. Out of 207 liberal arts colleges assessed, Smith placed fourth among 12 Massachusetts institutions in its category. In the Best Value list, Smith ranked third among the eight Massachusetts colleges recognized.

Innovate413 Looks to Fuel New Startups for the Region

By
Paul Silva
Cover Story

Getting the Band Back Together

Paul Silva

Paul Silva

They’re calling it VVM 2.0.

And that nickname for a new initiative called Innovate413 says a lot, said Paul Silva, who will be leading this effort to spark new, tech-based startups in the region, while not repeating some of the mistakes of the original VVM, Valley Venture Mentors.

Chief among them is getting into the real estate business, said Silva, noting that he was president of VVM when many of its board members pushed for a physical presence, and got one in the form of a building on Bridge Street in downtown Springfield that now bears no trace of the agency, which exists essentially on paper as an affiliate of the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council, but hasn’t been active for years.

“One of the things that killed VVM was getting that space, because then you become a landlord, and then you’re tied to all the challenges of having space, as opposed to being focused on entrepreneurs — we’re not doing that again,” said Silva, quickly moving past the problems that visited the once-impactful nonprofit and focusing on the positive energy and dozens of startups it fostered in its better days.

It was this energy — and startups nurtured by VVM, such as Northampton-based Machine Metrics, and the critical need for more — that prompted Steve Davis, a director with the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation, to reach out to Silva and commence a dialogue about creating a new engine for fueling startups in the region.

These talks would eventually lead to the creation of Innovate413, what Silva calls a new kind of venture studio, one designed, according to the recently launched website, “to help bold ideas grow, connect founders to game-changing partners, and build the next generation of employers right here at home.”

“It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that there’s trouble when big companies are shrinking and there aren’t any new companies being born … that’s not going to be great for us 20 years from now.”

With $150,000 in seed money from the Davis Foundation and another $100,000 from the MassMutual Foundation, Silva explained, Innovate413 will seek to foster startups and put them on the path to success by providing what he called “an unfair advantage.”

Elaborating, he said this advantage will come in two forms — access to potential customers, meaning large regional employers that will talk about problems facing them and all those in their industries, and access to the latest artificial intelligence and product development techniques.

“When you’re in Silicon Valley or in Boston, you have access to that stuff, but the vast majority of the country doesn’t,” he noted, adding that access, in this case, comes largely from the Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (CDS) at the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences at UMass Amherst.

“This isn’t just an ivory tower institution — they actually work with the business community,” said Silva, adding that CDS is one of many catalysts that will work with startups through Innovate413 and help provide them with that unfair advantage.

Machine Metrics, profiled in this 2015 edition of BusinessWest, is an example of the kind of tech-based startup that Innovate413 will look to cultivate.

“Most programs have mentors — we’ve learned that we must go further,” said Silva, noting that these catalysts are businesses and organizations with pressing challenges and powerful networks. Early catalyst partners include the CDS, manufacturers such as Belt Technologies and OMG, the Human Services Forum, and PixelEdge, which builds software to give business leaders a competitive edge (more on that later).

Access to these catalysts can give entrepreneurs the equivalent of a running head start, he said, adding that startups will need any advantage they can get to move off the ground and then become scalable.

For this issue, BusinessWest talked with Silva about Innovate413, its importance, its mission — and how it will carry it out.

 

Bringing Back the Magic

As he discussed all that, Silva stressed that this agency is itself essentially a startup, one that, as noted earlier, has been given some seed money to solve a problem.

“I said, ‘look, I’m going to practice what I preach — here’s a small amount of money to try a new way; how do we do things in a way that will be more sustainable and engaging for the region?’” he said, summing up what he told those funding this pilot program. “‘And we should be able to figure out if we’re on the right track within a year; if not, you shouldn’t keep funding it. If we are, great — I’ll come back and ask for more money.’”

He emphasized that the need for an agency focused on fostering startups, and the need for that agency to succeed, is clear — and pressing.

“Steve Davis and I were commiserating on the tragedy of what’s happened to the entrepreneurship ecosystem since VVM’s demise,” he explained. “It’s on the order of 5% as many scalable startups being generated as there used to be.”

Elaborating, he said the region was generating as many as 50 scalable startups a year through VVM, and now, there are maybe a handful.

“Meanwhile … big companies are relocating jobs, and there’s not a lot of stories about companies moving tons of jobs to this area — it happens, but the trend has not been good,” Silva noted. “It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that there’s trouble when big companies are shrinking and there aren’t any new companies being born … that’s not going to be great for us 20 years from now.

“So, Steve Davis asked me if I’d consider putting together a proposal, and a team, to bring the magic back,” he went on, adding that the proposal has become Innovate413, and in many respects, he is putting the band back together — meaning many of the mentors and supporters in the business community that made the original VVM so successful.

But Silva wanted to stress what’s different about this agency, beyond the real estate factor. To do that, he talked about what’s he’s learned from other startup-related agencies, such as MassChallenge, about what has made them successful.

“They have to find a way to create an unfair advantage for their startups that’s tied to the local economy,” he told BusinessWest, adding that this generally comes from access to customers — specifically, a pilot customer that can help a startup get off the launch pad.

“We’re bringing in big regional employers to have them talk about the problems they and their industry are facing, so that entrepreneurs won’t be coming up with some random idea and having no idea if anyone gives a crap,” he explained.

“We’re bringing in big regional employers to have them talk about the problems they and their industry are facing, so that entrepreneurs won’t be coming up with some random idea and having no idea if anyone gives a crap.”

“Instead, they’ll be someone with pain and a budget sitting across the table from me, who, as long as I’m nice, will go out for coffee with me,” he went on, assuming the role of an entrepreneur. “And if I make progress, they’ll keep going out for coffee with me, and they might even become my customer.”

To drive home the importance of such encounters with catalysts, he related the story of Machine Metrics.

“They stood up at a VVM meeting and said, ‘we make software that makes factories run more efficiently,’” Silva recalled. “And Al Kasper said, ‘I have a factory, and I’d like it to run more efficiently.’”

Kasper, then CEO (now retired) at Westfield-based Savage Arms, became sufficiently impressed with what he saw and heard, and Savage became the pilot customer for Machine Metrics, Silva went on, adding that Kasper introduced the team to its eventual second customer.

“For a startup, you’ve got to get that pilot customer in a narrow window of time,” he continued. “Otherwise … you’re dead. No one’s going to want to work with you. You’re stale; you’ve been around too long.

“So, we’re going to cheat,” he continued, adding that, by bringing in large employers with pain of some form, entrepreneurs can find problems to solve — and often realize that the solution is something they’ve been working on, or at least thinking about.

“Entrepreneurs can see if there’s something they can be passionate about, or maybe they were thinking about a solution that could solve a variety of different problems. And now they find … ‘back when I worked in healthcare, we solved this problem over and over again. These guys in manufacturing have the same problem; they just use different nouns and verbs. I’ll go work on that.’”

 

Starting Something

Such encounters will be one of the main thrusts of Innovate413, which will start to ramp up this fall — with events with names such as ‘idea jams,’ ‘startup sprints,’ and ‘hackathons’ — while also giving entrepreneurs exposure to cutting-edge AI and product development techniques through the AI center at UMass and PixelEdge, which Silva serves as chief innovation officer.

“The CDS and PixelEdge are donating the training, skills, and consulting to any startup that gets into the program so they can now have access to the most modern tools,” Silva explained, adding that access to such resources can help entrepreneurs dramatically reduce the time and expense of bringing a product or service to market.

“These days, there’s a number of situations where you don’t need a technical co-founder to get off the ground. You can use AI to build you an ugly, minimally viable product to get off the ground; you can use AI to let you do the thing that would have taken five people before. You still need the humans — humans working really hard — but if there’s one thing startups don’t have, it’s a lot of people, because they’re broke. This lets them magnify their capabilities.”

Overall, Innovate413 is a hybrid of many different models within the nation’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, said Silva, adding that several elements are being borrowed from DeltaClime VT, an accelerator based in Burlington, Vt. that serves startup and seed-stage ventures focused on climate economy innovation across multiple industries.

Among other initiatives, that agency puts entrepreneurs in front of utility companies to help identify solutions for that sector, he noted, adding that companies from across the country gather in Burlington for that opportunity.

As for events, programs are slated for early this fall at UMass Amherst, Mount Holyoke College, and Western New England University, he said, adding that these will likely include some gatherings with large employers, ase well as hackathons, which he likened to inventors’ contests.

“They usually take place over the course of a weekend,” Silva explained. “You bring together a lot of engineering-type people, you give them some tools, you talk about some types of problems, and they basically spend the entire weekend hacking — trying to build something to solve that problem.”

From there, the goal will be to turn that solution into a business, he said, adding that it’s a leap to go from developing technology to creating a startup and enrolling in an accelerator program to bring it to the market.

Efforts to facilitate such leaps are an element of the entrepreneurial ecosystem that has been mostly missing for the past several years, he noted, adding that Innovate413 was created to close the gap and grow the startup population in the region.

As with any startup, success is anything but assured, but Silva says the problem has been identified, and he believes he has a possible solution. As he said, we’ll certainly know more in a year.

For now, he’s getting the band back together. There will be a different sound, though, one focused on providing that much-needed unfair advantage.

 

Western Mass. Offers Plenty of Autumn Fun

By
Special Coverage Tourism & Hospitality

Cool Happenings

 

Western Mass. is known for its wide range of tourist destinations and attractions, but the fun doesn’t have to end once the weather cools down. In fact, thanks to the perennial popularity of Halloween with families, October is one of the most lively months on the calendar for fun in the 413. Here are eight ways to enjoy the season.

 

 

The Great Halloween Drive-Thru

1911 Poquonock Ave., Windsor, CT

thegreathalloweendrivethru.com

The Great Halloween Drive-Thru is a unique family- and kid-friendly attraction, conveniently located next to Brown’s Harvest Farm in Windsor, Conn., just 15 minutes from Hartford and 25 minutes from Springfield. Visitors stay in their vehicles for a 45-minute journey through a farm full of spooky holograms, projections, and special effects. The Great Halloween Drive-Thru is not scary. There are no live actors and no jump scares, making this an ideal attraction for families with children. Spooky fun without the scare, the attraction draws visitors from all over Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York. The Great Halloween Drive-Thru is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., with the last ticket sold at 9 p.m. Admission is $30 per carload.

 

Hancock Shaker Village

1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield, MA

hancockshakervillage.org

With 20 historic buildings and a working farm and garden, Hancock Shaker Village is open April through December for self-guided tours, demonstrations, talks, and programs. Admission is $8 to $20, with children under 12 free. On Oct. 17, 18, 23, 25, and 30, the village offers the Haunted Hancock Tour at 7 p.m. ($30 additional cost). Guests can walk the dark halls of the Brick Dwelling and hear about all the haunted stories of this old building. For the younger set, Haunted Hancock for Kids (Oct. 18 and 25, 5 p.m.) is a tour of Shaker ghosts and mystery especially designed for kids ages 8-12 (and at least one adult companion). The 45-minute walking tour ($10-$15) includes a spooky walk through the Village and a visit to the Brick Dwelling. Finally, included in the Hancock admission is the Halloween Pumpkin Extravaganza at the Village on Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests are invited to wear a costume, trick or treat through the Village, meet Valerian the Garden Witch, and decorate a pumpkin.

 

A family enjoys pumpkin picking at McCray’s Farm.

McCray’s Farm

55 Alvord St., South Hadley, MA

mccrays-farm.com

McCray’s always gets its terror on in the fall, and this year’s Fear on the Farm spectacle includes the Monster Mash Haunted Hayride, Massacre Manor, and the Diagnostic, Operations, Nexus Genetic Research Facility (DONGRF). The farm is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in October. The ticket box office opens at 6:30 p.m., and the haunted attractions open at 7 p.m. General admission is $30, and the fast pass option (to skip to the front of the line) costs $55, available online only. McCray’s also offers pumpkin hayrides every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The ride to the pumpkin patch costs $5, and the pumpkins range in price depending on size.

 

Mike’s Maze at Warner Farm

23 South Main St., Sunderland, MA

mikesmaze.com

Visitors to Mike’s Maze, now celebrating its 25th year as one of the country’s most recognized corn mazes, will encounter activities, games, and amusements to entertain the entire family. Every year, the farm concocts a new maze, along with themed games that will challenge guests to solve puzzles and problems and guide their exploration through the corn. Outside the maze, the attractions include a horse-drawn wagon ride, potato cannons, pumpkin picking, and lunch at the Corn Café. Young kids will enjoy a playground featuring a giant double drain-tube slide, a jump pad, a tractor tire jungle gym, and giant games. Older kids and adults can race around the track in pedal carts at Dave’s Derby. And folks love to check out the view of the maze from the perspective of a giant walk-in camera obscura. General admission ranges from $10 to $14 and is free for kids 4 and under. The site is open through Nov. 2, Fridays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, Sundays, and Columbus Day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home

2 Plunkett St., Lenox, MA

edithwharton.org

The Mount is a turn-of-the-century home, designed and built by Edith Wharton in 1902. Today, this historic landmark is a cultural center with a robust year-round calendar of events. On the Ghost Tour of the Mount (selected Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays in October; see edithwharton.org/visit/ghost-tours for a full schedule and reservations), guides lead guests through the darkened halls of the Mount, sharing tales of the many eerie encounters that have been reported there for years. Ghost Tours last approximately two hours and include a half-mile walk — rain or shine — between buildings on the Mount’s campus. This tour contains adult content that is not appropriate for young audiences, and children under 12 will not be admitted. Fortunately, families may also choose a Ghost Tour for Kids on Oct. 3, 24, or 30.

 

One of the performers lurking in a scare zone at Six Flags New England.

Six Flags New England

1623 Main St., Agawam, MA

sixflags.com/newengland

On weekends and select days through Nov. 9, the annual Fright Fest promises plenty of thrills and scares on weekends and select days through Nov. 2. Fright Fest features more than 20 attractions, including five haunted mazes: Nightmares, Terror Tales, Slasher Circus 3D, Midnight Mansion, and Camp Killamore. Guests will also encounter seven immersive scare zones located throughout the park, where creatures lurk in the fog and sinister performers emerge from the shadows. Each zone delivers its own brand of fear, from a toxic wasteland to a city overrun by demons, and even a carnival of sinister clowns. Live shows include Midnight Uprising, The Awakening, Mort’s Used Coffins, and Love at First Fright. Park admission is $39, and entry into the five haunted mazes is an additional $24.

 

Sonny’s Place

349 Main St., Somers, CT

sonnysplace.com

Halloween at Sonny’s takes place throughout October. In addition to more than a dozen year-round attractions, Sonny’s offers a pair of seasonal highlights. Haunted Mini Golf costs $18 per person and features terrifying themes and live scare actors roaming the course from sundown to 10 p.m. every Friday and Saturday through Nov. 1. In addition, the Trick-or-Treat Trail is a chance for kids to trick-or-treat at Sonny’s. Kids can purchase a bag and punch card ($6) and visit highlighted attractions to collect a prize or candy at each one. The trail is open Friday through Sunday during operating hours.

 

An illustration used in the “Witch Panic!” exhibit at the Springfield Museums.

Springfield Museums

21 Edwards St., Springfield, MA

springfieldmuseums.org

Through Nov. 2, the Wood Museum of Springfield History is showcasing an exhibit called “Witch Panic! Massachusetts Before Salem.” Forty years before the infamous trials in Salem, fear gripped the small settlement of Springfield. Neighbors whispered about Mary and Hugh Parsons as rumors simmered for years, exploding into hysteria that eventually consumed the town. “Witch Panic!” dives into the daily lives of the couple, examining the circumstances that led to their 1651 accusation and arrest for witchcraft. Guests can learn about the folklore surrounding witches, like their association with broomsticks, black cats, and cauldrons; design their own ghoulish familiar, a small creature believed to help witches; and review the evidence of the Parsons’ witchcraft as a member of the jury and determine their innocence or guilt. Admission to all five Springfield Museums ranges from $13 to $25, with children under 3 free.

 

Wistariahurst Museum

238 Cabot St., Holyoke, MA

wistariahurst.org

The 19th-century mansion and gardens at Wistariahurst comprise a cultural center that engages with the community and hosts exhibitions, performances, and private events throughout the year. October offers two seasonally appropriate events. Cemetery Tours at Forestdale Cemetery will take place on Oct. 11. Guests will discover all there is to know about living and dying in Holyoke from narratives of the people who now find solace in these hallowed grounds. Four tours kick off between 3 and 4 p.m., and the cost is $15. Then, on Oct. 15, the Darkened Hallways Tour (5:30 p.m., also $15) is a chance to get to know Wistariahurst Museum after dark as guests are led through its halls by candlelight.

Area Contractors Report Steady Pipeline of Projects

By
A finished project from Sexton Roofing & Siding.
Construction Special Coverage

Looking Up

A finished project from Sexton Roofing & Siding.

A finished project from Sexton Roofing & Siding.

 

The construction industry remains one marked by both challenge and opportunity — and that goes for businesses that have been around for just a few years, or many decades.

In the former group is Sasha Wilde, who bought Sexton Roofing & Siding two years ago and has continued to grow the Hatfield-based business with a mix of residential roofing projects — the company’s bread and butter — and other services, including siding, windows, and exterior doors.

“We’re still doing all of that, making sure we can provide clients with a seamless experience. There’s a huge amount of opportunity,” she told BusinessWest.

“Last year was pretty down across the industry,” Wilde noted. “There was a hangover from COVID. So many people had accelerated home improvement projects during COVID, and last year, it seemed like everyone took a breath. And with the political climate uncertain, they didn’t want to spend as much money. This year, we’ve definitely seen people’s willingness to pull the trigger on projects. That’s been really helpful for us.”

“So many people had accelerated home improvement projects during COVID, and last year, it seemed like everyone took a breath. And with the political climate uncertain, they didn’t want to spend as much money. This year, we’ve definitely seen people’s willingness to pull the trigger on projects.”

In the more venerable category is Mowry & Schmidt in Greenfield, which has been in business for the past 78 years and is also extremely busy.

“I don’t see anything slowing down in the near future, which is a good thing,” co-owner Bob Provost said. “We’re usually trying to finish up some of the big spring, summer, and fall projects before the winter, but we’re just rolling right through. I don’t see a slowdown.”

The firm takes on a robust mix of new construction and renovation work, typically about 60% to 70% on the commercial side, with the rest residential, he explained, a diversity that buffers the company against industry trends.

Mowry & Schmidt is building a new ice hockey arena at Northfield Mount Hermon School.

“The last couple years, we’ve seen a steady flow of new home construction and higher-end kitchens and bath renovations, but the commercial volume is still a little higher. If the economy seems to affect one type of building and not the other, we’ve been able to adapt and make that transformation back and forth. It’s definitely key to staying busy, no doubt.”

Two of Mowry & Schmidt’s more interesting current projects are the construction of an ice hockey arena at Northfield Mount Hermon School and the renovation of the historic Leavitt-Hovey House — the former home of Greenfield Public Library — into a location for Greenfield Savings Bank.

“That’s a historical building, so there are a lot of facets there,” Provost said. “You get ready to go in a direction, then hold up, wait a little bit to get clarifications from the historical society, wait for approval, continue on. But it’s going well. It’s a nice property to work on.”

Clearly, despite challenges ranging from supply costs to workforce needs, contractors in Western Mass. are finding plenty of opportunities to grow their business.

 

Growth Opportunities

One of those is Keiter, a 17-year-old firm based in West Springfield that recently announced it is expanding into Berkshire County with a physical presence in that region, specifically the Clock Tower Business Center at 75 Church St. in Pittsfield. This marks the company’s second expansion in two years.

The move made sense, CEO Scott Keiter said, with past clients in the Berkshires including Mass Audubon Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Bousquet Sport, Premium Waters, Berkshire Medical Center, the town of Lenox, Saint Patrick and Raphael Church, as well as several residential clients. 

“Since we started doing a more regimented and strategic interview process, we’ve been able to find better people. We’ve weeded out the folks that look good on paper but are maybe not so aligned with the way we think.”

“For several years, we’ve had the opportunity to work with incredible clients and professionals throughout the Berkshires, and it felt like the right time to officially set roots,” he noted. “We’re proud to continue to grow in a region where we’ve already begun to build strong partnerships.”

Wilde said trying to grow her company is complicated by a tight potential worker pool, a persistent problem across the construction field.

“The home improvement business has been great, but not without its challenges, since we are trying to grow and scale this business. Scaling sometimes comes with its own set of challenges, one of them being just finding great people to add to the team,” she said, adding that she’s dealt with some “hiccups” in that area, but still saw her staff expand to nine this year, in addition to the subcontracting teams.

“I tried hard to get referrals from people we know, and we listed on the major sites like ZipRecruiter and Indeed. But it really comes down to the interview process,” Wilde told BusinessWest, adding that the way she handles that process has changed in positive ways.

Sasha Wilde (right) has grown her team to nine at Sexton Roofing & Siding — and wants to grow it further.

“The first interview anyone does with the team, I wind up talking about our company’s mission and core values, and whether they’re a cultural fit with us,” she explained. “Since we started doing a more regimented and strategic interview process, we’ve been able to find better people. We’ve weeded out the folks that look good on paper but are maybe not so aligned with the way we think.”

And finding talent that will stick is important in an industry where retirements continue to outpace young, incoming talent, she noted. “When I think about fellow business owners in construction, their people are approaching retirement age, and from what I can tell, there’s a shortage of actual people to do the work.”

Provost said Mowry & Schmidt typically employs between 13 and 15 people in the field and three or four more in the office.

“We’re pretty fortunate. We’ve got our employees that have been with us for quite some time. But it does create some challenges looking down the road. When we have to bring in new people, the new hires just aren’t there. I still have to rely on subcontractors, and you want them to be a good extension of what you’re offering in-house; you want to make sure that the subcontractors you bring in are equally good as our employees. There’s a definite shortage of construction trade workers out there.”

To that end, Provost has been involved with Franklin County Technical School to cultivate young talent and interest them in construction careers.

“We’ve brought in some work co-op kids. It’s a way to start them at a young age and keep them going. But it’s rough. Kids come out of school, and they’re not sure what they want to do.”

The other major challenges of the past few years, supply costs and availability, have settled down to an extent, Provost added, although tariffs have thrown in a new wrinkle.

“Supply of materials has gotten better,” he said. “Windows and doors and cabinets have caught up, but it can be challenging depending on certain materials.”

One new challenge is private equity firms moving into roofing, Wilde said.

“In prior years, they were focused on other trades, but they are now honing on roofing. We’ve had a couple of new competitors this year backed by private equity, and we’re trying to stay relevant and outmaneuver them in this market. But they have an unlimited marketing spend — I can’t spend that kind of money.”

One key is focusing on the local angle — not just being based in Western Mass. and doing projects here, but being involved in the community, she said.

“That’s how I think we’ll maintain our competitive edge over those companies. Western Mass. wants to take care of Western Mass. and support people who are here. We are your neighbors.”

 

Spreading the Word

Another key to growth is improving internal processes and communication with clients, so everything turns out the way the client expects with no surprises, Wilde noted.

“We’ve had a lot of learning around what documents to create to make sure that the jobs are communicated very clearly, to translate what’s in the homeowner’s head to what they’re building, and making sure that happens. We’ve done a lot of improving in this area.”

The team also tries to communicate with customers’ neighbors about work on their street, which is another chance to make connections; meanwhile, Sexton gives a discount on projects when the client keeps its yard sign up for four months — another way to raise the company’s visibility in an increasingly competitive market.

Provost said he takes pride in having a good base of repeat customers, which is essential to landing opportunities and responding to demand.

“We’re fortunate to be going strong here. We’re facing some uncertainties, but there’s a lot of work out there,” he said. “People are being more selective in the process of who’s going to do the work for them. Customers are more savvy these days, and they’re looking to make sure that the people that are working for them are qualified.”

Key Considerations for S Corporations in Year-end Payroll Reporting

By Contributor
Accounting and Tax Planning Special Coverage

Fringe Benefits

By Lauren Foley, MSA

As Dec. 31 approaches, an important consideration for employers is proper payroll reporting. W-2s must be sent to employees by Jan. 31, resulting in a very short window in which to ensure that final payroll is correct for tax reporting. In addition to compensation, employers must be sure that benefits are properly reported, including fringe benefits.

Fringe benefits are considered compensation and included in employee wages, unless they qualify for exclusion (i.e., are nontaxable and omitted from employee wages). However, if the recipient is a ‘2% shareholder’ (i.e., an owner and employee) of an S corporation, fringe benefits that otherwise qualify for exclusion are included in wages.

 

What Are Fringe Benefits?

A fringe benefit is a form of pay, including cash, amounts paid on behalf of an employee (e.g., health and life insurance, retirement and health accounts), or in-kind (e.g., property, meals, company cars), in addition to stated pay for the performance of services.

The Internal Revenue Code provides that fringe benefits are taxable, excluded, or partially taxable, depending on the type of benefit. If a fringe benefit is excluded or partially taxable, it must be ‘qualified,’ i.e. meet strict requirements to qualify for this preferential tax treatment. Even if excluded or partially taxable by employees, employers may deduct the cost of fringe benefits.

Lauren Foley

Lauren Foley

“The Internal Revenue Code provides that fringe benefits are taxable, excluded, or partially taxable, depending on the type of benefit. If a fringe benefit is excluded or partially taxable, it must be ‘qualified,’ i.e. meet strict requirements to qualify for this preferential tax treatment.”

 

What Are S Corporations?

Qualifying corporations that make S elections under the Internal Revenue Code are not separately taxed, as regular (C) corporations are. S corp status allows corporations to avoid double taxation by passing income, losses, and deductions to its shareholders, who report these items directly on their tax returns. Often, S corp shareholders are also employees.

Fringe Benefits and S Corp 2% Shareholder Employees

Due to the overlap between owner and employee status, special rules apply to S corp shareholder employee fringe benefit taxation and reporting. These rules apply to shareholders owning 2% or more of S corp stock (2% shareholders). Even if excludable by regular employees, 2% shareholder benefits are generally taxable and must be reported on the shareholder’s W-2. The following benefits are treated differently for 2% shareholders:

• Health insurance premiums are taxable and included on 2% shareholder employee W-2s. Regular employees’ W-2 wage does not include the employer paid portion of their health insurance.

• Retirement plan contributions are subject to self-employed contribution rules for 2% shareholder employees. These rules allow contribution of 25% of net earnings from self-employment. Retirement plan contributions for regular employees are non-taxable if they are within limits.

• Dependent care assistance from an employer is tax-free up to $5,000 for regular employees, while all dependent care benefits are taxable to 2% shareholder employees.

• Group term life insurance is entirely taxable to 2% shareholder employees, while life insurance is tax-free up to $50,000 coverage for employees.

• Health savings accounts are tax-free to regular employees but taxable to 2% shareholder employees.

• Unlike regular employees, 2% shareholder employees cannot participate in flexible spending accounts.

In addition, family members of 2% shareholders (e.g., spouse, children, parents) are also treated as 2% shareholders for fringe benefit purposes. That means any benefits they receive must follow the same tax and reporting rules as the ones given to the actual shareholder.

“Many S corporations are unaware of these rules and may face IRS adjustment if fringe benefits are not properly reported. If fringe benefits are omitted from W-2 reporting, the IRS may disallow related deductions, resulting in increased taxable income and potential penalties.”

Compliance and Planning

Many S corporations are unaware of these rules and may face IRS adjustment if fringe benefits are not properly reported. If fringe benefits are omitted from W-2 reporting, the IRS may disallow related deductions, resulting in increased taxable income and potential penalties.

If you are an S corp, planning to start an S corp, or a 2% shareholder employee, it’s important to review all the shareholders’ ownership percentages to determine the correct tax treatment of shareholder employee fringe benefits. The S corp should decide which benefits to offer and clearly communicate this information to its payroll provider, especially regarding shareholder benefits. Be sure to consult your CPA or refer to the IRS website for fringe benefit guidance.

 

Lauren Foley, is a senior associate at the Holyoke-based accounting firm Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C. This material is generic in nature. Before relying on the material in any important matter, users should note date of publication and carefully evaluate its accuracy, currency, completeness, and relevance for their purposes, and should obtain any appropriate professional advice relevant to their particular circumstances.

Wilbraham Looks to Build on Recent Momentum

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Developers are planning to transform the former Lakeside Inn into a boutique hotel and restaurant.
Community Spotlight Special Coverage

Community Spotlight

Developers are planning to transform the former Lakeside Inn into a boutique hotel and restaurant.

Developers are planning to transform the former Lakeside Inn into a boutique hotel and restaurant.

 

Christal Russo acknowledged that Wilbraham hasn’t historically enjoyed a reputation for being ‘open for business,’ as communities like to say.

And that’s understandable given its rural nature and status as one of the more desirable of Springfield’s bedroom communities.

But it has always welcomed businesses that enhance the quality of life there and meet the needs of its residents, said Russo, the recently named chair of the town’s resuscitated Economic Development Committee. And now, it is even more so, she noted, adding that the community has many strong selling points, ranging from a single tax rate to some developable parcels along busy Boston Road, to a recent vote to squelch a proposed meals tax.

And there’s two developments to either side of the town — new development on the site of the former Eastfield Mall and a planned rail station in nearby Palmer as part of planned east-west rail — that can be added to that list.

Meanwhile, the town has seen some real momentum when it comes to new business in recent years, from a Delaney’s restaurant and Domino’s Pizza to a new development in the center of town featuring a pizza restaurant, brewery, and several apartments, to the recent announcement by developers of plans to transform the former Lakeside Inn (which was home to several other restaurants in recent years and is now used as office space for a transportation company) into a boutique hotel that will include a high-end restaurant (more on this later).

“And we want to keep that momentum going,” said Russo, a project manager at MassMutual, adding that the Economic Development Committee, resurrected a few years ago, is committed to promoting the town’s assets and growing its business community.

“What we want to do as a committee is let the public know is that Wilbraham is open for business and we support our businesses,” she said, adding that the community is poised for additional growth. “We’re looking to better understand what we can do and what our businesses need so we can support them.”

Jim Rooney, chair of the town’s Planning Board, agreed, noting that the single tax rate and other measures taken recently — or not taken, in the case of the meals tax — should help efforts to sell the town to business owners.

“We have a few open storefronts and some land available for additional development. We’d love to be able to fill those spaces and bring some businesses here to develop some of our open parcels.”

As for redevelopment of the Eastfield Mall, a project called Springfield Crossing, a planned mix of retail, service businesses, and, eventually, housing, should create more traffic on Boston Road, which will not only benefit existing businesses there and elsewhere in town, but inspire more business owners and entrepreneurs to give Wilbraham a hard look, Rooney said.

“We would definitely think that, with the increased traffic, someone will be driving down and thinking, ‘this would be a great place for my business.’”

For this latest installment in its Community Spotlight series, BusinessWest takes an in-depth look at Wilbraham and the many forms of momentum being seen in the community.

 

Delivering Results

Paul Robbins remembers driving past the site of Post Office Park on Boston Road while it was under construction a quarter-century or so ago. “I was thinking to myself, ‘who’s going to want to move in there?’”

Well … he did.

Indeed, not long after the facility opened, Robbins, a principal with the marketing firm Paul Robbins Associates, left his offices in downtown Springfield after 20 years there and relocated to the park. It was a move of convenience, he told BusinessWest, adding that he had moved his family to Wilbraham a few years earlier, and it just made sense to put his business there as well, especially since there was a new business park in town. (He recently relocated his business to the Brewer-Young mansion in Longmeadow.)

Getting back to his original commentary and skepticism about the park, it was grounded in the notion that Wilbraham was somewhat of a remote outpost, business-wise, hard to get to from Springfield — and many other parts of the 413.

And it still is.

But Wilbraham and, more specifically, the Boston Road corridor have become home to a growing number of businesses across several sectors, including hospitality, retail, and the broad realm of health and wellness, bringing people from several nearby communities into town.

A redeveloped Eastfield Mall is expected to boost existing businesses in Wilbraham and perhaps inspire more entrepreneurs to want to call it home.

Indeed, the park has made the community more of a destination, as it now hosts a post office (hence the name), the Scantic Valley YMCA, Monson Savings Bank corporate offices, a few medical offices, a hair salon, a shredding company, and other ventures. Looking at what’s happened, Robbins said the park has helped the community shed that ‘outpost’ label, and there have been many new developments along that stretch since.

And there’s land at the site for additional development, said Russo, adding that new businesses along that corridor, and the prospects for more, are one of the main forms of momentum in the community.

Perhaps the biggest are the announced plans for redeveloping the former Lakeside Inn. Built on Nine Mile Pond in the 1940s as an inn and restaurant, it was always a popular destination, drawing diners and guests from neighboring communities and well beyond.

Wilbraham at a Glance

Year Incorporated: 1763
Population: 14,613
Area: 22.4 square miles
County: Hampden
Residential Tax Rate: $17.88
Commercial Tax Rate: $17.88
Median Household Income: $65,014
Median Family Income: $73,825
Type of government: Board of Selectmen, Open Town Meeting
Largest Employers: Baystate Wing Wilbraham Medical Center; Friendly Ice Cream Corp.; Big Y; Home Depot; Wilbraham & Monson Academy
*Latest information available

The hope is that the planned boutique hotel and restaurant — conceived by unrelated business owners Joe Sullivan and John Sullivan, owners of several ventures in the area, including Nathan Bill’s Bar & Restaurant and Boulevard Tavern and Grill in Springfield and East Village Tavern in East Longmeadow — will do the same.

“This is a really exciting development for the community,” Russo said. “It’s going to bring new life to a true landmark.”

Rooney agreed. “We’re extremely excited to see this come back as a restaurant — they’re looking to have lakeside dining — and a boutique hotel, small rooms to support activities like when parents come in for events at Wilbraham Monson Academy,” he said. “We’re really looking forward to this happening; it will be a great addition to the landscape.”

Plans call for a restaurant on the main floor, with eight guest rooms on the second floor and another six on the basement level. If all goes as planned, both components of the business should be completed by the fall of 2026.

 

You Can Get Here from There

Overall, Wilbraham, its officials, and its town meeting voters have taken several steps that are making the community more business-friendly, said Rooney, listing everything from that vote to reject a meals tax, which will provide a boost for the town’s growing roster of restaurants, to a measure allowing used car sales (something not allowed in town previously) as an accessory to an existing business.

The latter is a nod to changes in that business, Rooney noted, adding that most of the business involving the sale of used cars is done online, reducing the need for large lots full of cars.

“This measure will allow that kind of business to flourish in Wilbraham,” he noted, adding that it is indicative of efforts to facilitate business growth in the community.

And while such growth will largely be limited to the Boston Road corridor and the center of town, as it has been historically, there is room for more, said those we spoke with.

“We have a few open storefronts and some land available for additional development,” Russo explained. “We’d love to be able to fill those spaces and bring some businesses here to develop some of our open parcels.

There is already ample motivation for doing so, said Russo and Rooney, but those twin developments mentioned earlier — the reimagined Eastfield Mall, known as Springfield Crossing (just a few hundred yards from the Wilbraham line), and the planned rail stop in Palmer — might provide additional incentives.

Construction is well underway at Springfield Crossing, a 360,000-square-foot strip mall that will include Target, BJ’s, Hobby Lobby, PetSmart, Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, and other regional and national retailers. It expected to make that corner of Springfield a more popular destination, as it was decades ago when the mall was thriving, said Rooney, bringing traffic from all directions, including east, through Wilbraham.

As for the rail stop, it is expected to make the eastern portion of the 413 more accessible, and more attractive, to potential residents — and also to business owners looking to create ventures to support those residents.

These are just some of the reasons why Wilbraham is enjoying some momentum, and why leaders there believe it can generate more in the years to come.

Western Massachusetts Literacy Collaborative Receives $190,000 Grant

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — The Western Massachusetts Literacy Collaborative (WMLC) recently received a $190,000 Early Literacy Consortium (ELC) grant from the Healey-Driscoll administration and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

The collaborative, through which local colleges and schools work together to address teacher preparation, boost student literacy, and enhance classroom practices, was created three years ago. It has been used as a model by the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to encourage other colleges and public schools to partner on addressing literacy needs in their region. The Early Literacy Consortium grant program was created to support funding initiatives such as the WMLC and other consortia across the state.

Elms College is the lead institution in the WMLC, which also includes American International College, Bay Path University, Springfield College, and Westfield State University. The school districts include Springfield Public Schools, East Longmeadow Public Schools, and the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership. Also included are early education sites Educare Springfield and Square One.

A key part of the collaborative is the Summer Learn & Earn Literacy Corps, which prepares college students studying to be future educators to teach culturally responsive and evidence-based literacy practices. The college students then work as summer school tutors teaching elementary and middle school students ways to improve their reading skills.

Last summer, the Learn & Earn Literacy Corps attracted 34 tutors to help nearly 200 elementary and secondary students identified as needing support with reading skills.

The funds from this grant will provide professional development on evidence-based literacy practices to higher education and school district professionals, and contract an evaluation specialist who will determine the effectiveness of the literacy interventions.

“The WMLC is grateful for all the support we have received. It has enabled us to create quality mentored work experiences for new and aspiring teachers,” said Laura Porter, WMLC director and an instructor in the Education Division at Elms College. “Overall, the public school students who received literacy interventions from our college tutors during summer sessions demonstrated substantial growth with their reading skills. This points to the effectiveness of the Summer Learn & Earn Literacy Corps in supporting new teachers and providing strong literacy outcomes for elementary and middle school youth in our region.”

Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts to Host Annual Sneaker Soirée on Oct. 9

By
Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Girls on the Run (GOTR) Western Massachusetts will host its annual Sneaker Soirée on Thursday, Oct. 9 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Springfield Country Club in West Springfield.

Dressed in their party attire and favorite sneakers, guests will enjoy an evening of food, fun, and inspiration. The event will feature a silent auction with items and experiences from local supporters, hors d’oeuvres and cash bar, a wine pull, and an opportunity to hear from GOTR participants and coaches. All event proceeds will support program scholarships so more girls can experience the transformative impact of Girls on the Run.

Tickets cost $50 per person or $400 for a table of eight. More information and tickets are available at www.girlsontherunwesternma.org/sneaker-soiree. The silent auction will be available online to event attendees and the public starting Oct. 4. Item donations are welcome and should be directed to Girls on the Run Western Massachusetts staff.

The presenting Sponsor is the Jamrog Group, and other event sponsors include Specialty Bolt & Screw, Burkhart Pizzanelli P.C, Meyers Brothers Kalicka P.C., and Martin Wohl and Marisa Labozzetta.

Over the last ten years, GOTR Western Massachusetts has grown from 90 girls on six teams to more than 1,900 girls on 85 teams in 2025. It has served more than 13,000 girls in all four Western Mass. counties since its start.

Girls on the Run is a physical activity-based, positive youth development program that uses fun running games and dynamic discussions to teach life skills to girls in grades 3-8. This fall season will introduce a newly updated curriculum for coaches to guide and facilitate lessons for their teams. The eight-week season will feature 16 lessons curated to build life skills around timely and age-appropriate topics such as managing emotions, positive self-talk, navigating friendships, and more.

The season culminates with teams completing a community impact project and a celebratory 5K. The fall 5K will take place on Sunday, Nov. 23 at 10:30 a.m. at Western New England University.

The Clutter Doctor Inc. to Hold 25th Anniversary Event on Nov. 5

By
Daily News

AGAWAM — Carleen Eve Fischer Hoffman, founder of the Clutter Doctor Inc., a company that offers hands-on organizing services, announced a 25th anniversary celebration for the business, to be held on Wednesday, Nov. 5 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Next Level Cowork, 11 Herbert P. Almgren Dr., Agawam.

The event will include light fare, refreshments, and 25th anniversary award presentations. RSVP to [email protected].

Hoffman is known for bringing humor, heart, and deep expertise to the often overwhelming topic of clutter. She has helped hundreds of clients go from chaos to calm by helping them clear physical and emotional space.

Her childhood passion for organizing led to the creation of the Clutter Doctor Inc., an East Longmeadow-based business that has given her the opportunity to help clients get motivated to tackle clutter, understand the emotional side of ‘stuff,’ and learn how organization supports mental well-being. The Clutter Doctor was one of the first businesses of its kind in Western Mass.

Hoffman appears regularly on WWLP’s Mass Appeal, where she shares tips for organizing — whether in the home, the office, or when traveling. She also wrote a regular column for the Girls Just Wanna Have Fun magazine in the Republican newspaper. In addition, she has been featured nationally in magazines, newspapers, radio, and television.

Monson Savings Bank Donates $10,000 to Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services

By
Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank announced a $10,000 donation to the Emergency Food Pantry operated by Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (MLKFS), reinforcing the bank’s commitment to supporting local families and individuals facing food insecurity.

The donation was presented by Monson Savings Bank President and CEO Dan Moriarty and Assistant Vice President, Community Lending Officer Wil Morales, who also serves on the board of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services, to MLKFS CEO Shannon Rudder and Chief Development Officer Claudia Pazmany.

The MLKFS Emergency Food Pantry provides essential nourishment to individuals and families facing food insecurity in the Greater Springfield area. With rising demand, the contribution from Monson Savings Bank will help ensure the pantry remains stocked and accessible to those who rely on its services.

“This donation reflects our deep commitment to the communities we serve,” Moriarty said. “We are honored to support the vital work of Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services and help provide food security to our neighbors.”

Added Morales, “as someone who sees firsthand the impact of MLKFS, I am proud to be part of a bank that steps up when our community needs us most. This gift will make a real difference.”

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services Food Pantry, located at the Community Center on 3 Rutland St. in Springfield’s Mason Square neighborhood, provides critical emergency food services to individuals and families facing food insecurity throughout Hampden County. Operating every Thursday from 8 a.m. to noon, the pantry offers a variety of food items, including meats, dairy, baked goods, and fresh and canned produce, based on availability.

Shoppers select their own items rather than receiving pre-packed bags, and while proof of residency is requested, no one is turned away. The pantry is staffed by a dedicated program director and supported by more than 20 weekly volunteers, with food donations supplied by the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts and other grocery partners.

Additionally, MLKFS hosts a Mobile Food Bank in partnership with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month from 1 to 2 p.m. at the same location. All shoppers are encouraged to bring their own bags, and SNAP eligibility screenings are available onsite. To learn more, visit www.mlkjrfamilyservices.org/families.

“At a time when funding cuts threaten the very safety nets our communities rely on, this investment in our Emergency Food Pantry is more than just financial support; it’s a statement of belief in our mission and those who we are honored to serve,” Rudder said. “Our pantry team is powered by the heart and hands of devoted volunteers who show up every day with one goal: to ensure no one in our community goes hungry. Our partnership with Monson truly bolsters our ability to meet the growing need and reaffirms that compassion and commitment still win, even in the hardest of times.”

Pazmany added that “we are incredibly grateful to Monson Savings Bank for their continued generosity. Their support feeds our mission to lead with hope and drive action, shaping futures with dignity and compassion across cultures and generations.”

Springfield WORKS to Receive $150,000 Grant for Leap into Law Program

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — State Sen. Adam Gómez joined the Executive Office of Economic Development in announcing a grant award through the Community Workforce Partnerships Grant Program (CWP) for Springfield WORKS in the city of Springfield.

This program is a reimagining of the Urban Agenda grant, which supported local economic priorities and collective problem solving for 10 years. The program offers one-year operating grants to projects in job skill training, literacy and language skills, and small business employee skill development, apprenticeship, recruitment, and retention.

“The Community Workforce Partnerships Grant Program creates real, equitable pathways to economic opportunity for cities and towns across Massachusetts,” Gómez said. “I’m thrilled that Springfield WORKS Leap into Law will [receive] a $150,000 grant through this program. This investment will empower women, underserved adults, and Accelerated Career English learners in Springfield with real skills, language training, and workplace experience — tools that lead to good jobs and a stronger community.”

Springfield WORKS at the Western Massachusetts Economic Development Council is a collaborative workforce initiative focused on building pathways to economic mobility for underrepresented residents in the Springfield area. One of its flagship programs, Leap into Law, prepares under-resourced adults — especially women and accelerated career English learners — for living-wage careers in legal administration. The program combines skills training, language development, and hands-on workplace experience to create direct pipelines into the legal field and help participants achieve long-term career success.

Chikmedia Welcomes Julianne Fruscio as New Content Producer

By
Daily News

Julianne Fruscio

SPRINGFIELD — Chikmedia, a boutique firm specializing in marketing, public relations, branding, and design, announced the addition of Julianne Fruscio to its growing creative team as a content producer. With more than a decade of expertise in marketing strategy, social media, and brand development, she brings a proven ability to craft impactful content that drives engagement, strengthens brand presence, and fuels growth.

Fruscio is a seasoned marketing director, social media influencer, and expert in content creation, with extensive experience developing innovative campaigns for major brands, including her work with Amazon and Comfrt. She specializes in brand positioning, storytelling, and creative direction, consistently producing results-driven content that captivates audiences and boosts conversions.

In addition to her corporate achievements, Fruscio has built a thriving body positivity community, showcasing her talent for fostering authentic engagement and inspiring audiences. Her strengths in trend analysis, content planning, and visual production ensure that the brands she works with achieve consistent growth and lasting impact.

“This partnership with Chikmedia is beyond exciting and is such a good fit between two strong women marketing professionals in Western Mass.,” Fruscio said. “I am in awe of Meghan and the Chikmedia team and what they have accomplished, so it truly is an honor to be part of the team. Creating compelling content and managing social media platforms is one of my passions, and I can’t wait to bring my creative vision to new and existing clients.”

Fruscio’s appointment underscores Chikmedia’s commitment to expanding its creative capabilities and delivering high-quality, compelling content for its clients. As a content producer, she will play a key role in content strategy, brand storytelling, and multi-media production.

“We are so excited to welcome Julianne to the Chikmedia team,” said Meghan Rothschild, president of Chikmedia. “Her expertise in social media marketing and brand development, combined with her creative vision and passion for storytelling, make her an invaluable addition as we continue to grow and innovate.”

Fruscio holds a bachelor’s degree in integrated marketing communications from Ithaca College’s Roy H. Park School of Communications. Prior to joining Chikmedia, she served as director of Marketing, Retention, and Field Services at Dominion Dealer Solutions, as well as Business Development and Marketing specialist at Excelsior Integrated.

Holyoke Mall to Host Halloween Mall-O-Ween on Oct. 30

By
Daily News

HOLYOKE — Families and children of all ages are invited to Holyoke Mall’s annual Halloween Mall-O-Ween trick-or-treating event on Thursday, Oct. 30 from 4 to 6 p.m. Participating mall retailers will be handing out candy throughout the center, making it an ideal destination for little ghouls and goblins to safely enjoy trick-or-treating.

Attendees can also participate in a Social Media Costume Contest. Simply snap a photo while trick-or-treating at the mall, post it on Facebook and/or Instagram, follow and tag the mall @HolyokeMall, and use the hashtag #HolyokeMallHalloween2025. Contestants must be at least 18 years old. Winners will be announced on Nov. 3 and awarded prizes.

For full details regarding Halloween Mall-O-Ween, visit www.holyokemall.com/event/halloween-mall-o-ween-2025.

Picture This

By
Picture This

Community Support

bankESB announced a $20,000 commitment over the next two years to support the construction of a new ADA- and safety-compliant play structure at Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School in Easthampton. 

Pictured from left: Tiffany Ross, Rebecca Belcher-Timme, and Chris Kusek of Hilltown Cooperative Charter Public School; and Jessica West, Thomas Florence, Elizabeth Schabacker, and Robyn Michaud of bankESB. The bank also announced a $5,000 donation to It Takes a Village, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families in the rural Hilltown communities of Western Mass.

 

Pictured, from left: Lisa Goding, Kenzie Kinsella, Tara Balboni, and Becky Brisbois of It Takes a Village; and Schabacker, West, and Michaud

 

 

 

 

 

Technically Speaking

Holyoke Community College (HCC) celebrated the grand opening of its new Tech Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 3. Located on the second floor of the HCC Campus Center, the HCC Tech Center is a newly refurbished space that provides students with the technological support they need to be successful. The center is run by a team of student interns who offer one-on-one support to their classmates who need assistance. It also offers computer stations for students to use, a classroom for interactive workshops and meetings, and cubicles where other HCC support staff, such as financial aid counselors, can set up shop during special events. 

Pictured: HCC President George Timmons gets ready to cut the ribbon at the grand opening.

 

 

 

Promoting Fun and Wellness

Westfield Bank recently donated $5,000 to the YMCA of Greater Westfield to help launch Ninja Zone, a new program that promotes fitness, confidence, and fun for local kids. Pictured above left, from left: YMCA Mission Advancement Director Ashley Buxton, Westfield Bank President and CEO Jim Hagan, and YMCA CEO Andrea Allard. Westfield Bank also recently donated $10,000 to the Behavioral Health Network (BHN) Kamp for Kids to help support its summer camp, a six-week program that brings together children with and without disabilities for fun activities and events. Pictured above right: Westfield Bank COO Kevin O’Connor presents the check to BHN President and CEO Steve Winn, along with members of both organizations.

Pictured, from left: YMCA Mission Advancement Director Ashley Buxton, Westfield Bank President and CEO Jim Hagan, and YMCA CEO Andrea Allard. Westfield Bank also recently donated $10,000 to the Behavioral Health Network (BHN) Kamp for Kids to help support its summer camp, a six-week program that brings together children with and without disabilities for fun activities and events.

 

Pictured: Westfield Bank COO Kevin O’Connor presents the check to BHN President and CEO Steve Winn, along with members of both organizations.

 

 

Knowledge Is Power

Monson Savings Bank (MSB) recently pledged $20,000 to Educare Springfield, reinforcing its commitment to early childhood education. Pictured above left: MSB President and CEO Dan Moriarty (second from left) and Executive Vice President and COO Michael Rouette (right) join Educare Springfield Executive Director Nikki Burnett (third from left) and School Director Amy Stec (left) to celebrate the unveiling of Monson Savings Bank’s name on Educare’s interactive donor wall. The bank also recently donated $2,500 to the Women’s Empowerment Scholarship, which invests in the future of area women by encouraging and empowering them to pursue higher education. Pictured above right: Moriarty (right) and Rouette (left) present the donation to Cori Medeiros, vice president of the Women’s Empowerment Scholarship.

Pictured: MSB President and CEO Dan Moriarty (second from left) and Executive Vice President and COO Michael Rouette (right) join Educare Springfield Executive Director Nikki Burnett (third from left) and School Director Amy Stec (left) to celebrate the unveiling of Monson Savings Bank’s name on Educare’s interactive donor wall. The bank also recently donated $2,500 to the Women’s Empowerment Scholarship, which invests in the future of area women by encouraging and empowering them to pursue higher education.

 

Pictured: Moriarty (right) and Rouette (left) present the donation to Cori Medeiros, vice president of the Women’s Empowerment Scholarship.

Agenda

By
Agenda

Community Workshops

Oct. 1, 6, 29: Greylock Federal Credit Union will host three free community workshops on the topics of avoiding debt, building credit, and Medicare. On Wednesday, Oct. 1, “Avoiding the Gift of Debt” will be held via Zoom from 6 to 6:45 p.m., and will outline strategies to avoid debt during the holiday season. On Monday, Oct. 6, “Credit Ability: Build a Strong Credit History” (in Spanish), a hybrid workshop, will help participants understand the need to build credit, the significance of credit scores, ways to establish credit, and how to use credit wisely. Participants are welcome to join in person from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Greylock Community Empowerment Center, 75 Kellogg St., Pittsfield, or join via a Zoom option. On Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6 p.m., a virtual workshop, “Preparing for Medicare 101 and Open Enrollment Changes 2025,” will help prepare recent retirees and those looking to retire in near future. This event is presented in partnership with Elder Services of Berkshire County. For more information and to register, visit www.greylock.org/cec.

 

Party with 1 Purpose

Oct. 4: After a sold-out debut that earned national recognition from Breakthrough T1D as one of the Top New Fundraising Events of 2024, Party with 1 Purpose will return to the Basketball Hall of Fame. Chaired by David Fontaine Jr. and Sarah Fontaine, the gala unites community leaders, local families, and businesses in support of Breakthrough T1D’s mission to cure, prevent, and treat type 1 diabetes (T1D). Guests will enjoy an evening on Center Court featuring live music, an energetic auction, inspiring stories from local T1D families, and opportunities to directly fund life-changing research. This year’s Fund a Cure will shine a spotlight on the Kouflie family and their son Braden, who was diagnosed with T1D at age 7. The Kouflies will share their journey of navigating the daily challenges of diabetes while holding onto hope for a cure, giving guests a personal look at why Breakthrough T1D’s research is so critical. Sponsorships and tickets are available at www.breakthrought1d.org/ctma/wmassgala2025.

 

Barks & Brews

Oct. 5: The 10th annual Barks & Brews event, presented by Dakin Humane Society, will take place at Fort Hill Brewery in Easthampton. The event will begin with a VIP exclusive preview hour from noon to 1 p.m., with general admission taking place from 1 to 3 p.m. VIP admission tickets, priced at $75, entitle holders to on-site parking, hors d’oeuvres served during the preview hour, a complimentary beer, and an event T-shirt. General admission tickets, priced at $35, include a complimentary beer. Parking is located on street and at the local school lot (a five-minute walk). Visit www.dakinhumane.org/barksandbrews to purchase tickets. All attendees of the event must be at least 21 years old. Guests are invited to bring crowd-friendly dogs on a non-retractable leash (retractable leashes are not allowed), and are asked not to bring strollers. Other event features will include a Halloween costume contest for dogs, a hot dog eating contest for dogs, a 50/50 raffle (ticket holders need not be present to win), a photo booth, nail trimming, dog baths, vendor booth shopping, and food trucks. Barks & Brews is an important annual fundraiser for Dakin, a 501(c)(3) organization. In previous years at Fort Hill, this event has generated about $30,000 for services and programs that help animals in need.

 

Real Estate Licensing Course

Oct. 6 to Nov. 12: The Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will host a 40 hour, 14-class sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real estate salesperson license exam. Tuition costs $425 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328 or visit www.rapv.com.

 

Estate Planning Series

Oct. 9, 16, 23: Attorney Karen Jackson of Jackson Law in Holyoke will lead a three-course series on estate planning at Holyoke Community College beginning Oct. 9 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. “Powerful Tools to Save the Home and Other Assets from the Nursing Home Bill” will continue on Oct. 16 and 23, also from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Participants will hear a high-level overview of MassHealth’s financial requirements, “so MassHealth, not the family, funds any necessary long-term nursing home care,” Jackson explained. She will also explain the benefits of what she calls the “powerful tools in estate planning” — the irrevocable trust, the caregiver child exception, the adult disabled child exception, the Medicaid qualified annuity, pooled trusts, and long-term care insurance. She will explain the benefits and limitations of each of these tools and will encourage questions. The cost for the series is $179. To register, call (413) 552-2320.

 

Cancer Connection Harvest Dinner

Oct. 16: Cancer Connection’s annual Harvest Dinner will take place at Union Station in Northampton. The Harvest Dinner is one of Cancer Connection’s most important fundraisers, and bankESB’s support will help underwrite the costs of the event and allow the organization to raise more funds for its programs. This festive evening brings the Cancer Connection community together and raises critical funds to bring support groups, integrative therapies, and educational programs to more cancer patients and their caregivers. The event will include a cocktail hour, farm-to-table dinner, silent auction, and a program of speakers. Cancer Connection, the only independent cancer support center in the area, is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 2000, Cancer Connection’s mission is to provide a haven where people with cancer and their loved ones can learn how to navigate the complicated cancer journey through one-to-one guidance, education, peer support, integrative therapies, and creative programs. Cancer Connection is the only cancer support center in Hampshire and Franklin Counties and draws additional participants from Hampden County and beyond. For more information on sponsorships and tickets for the Harvest Dinner, visit www.cancer-connection.org/special-events.

 

Healthcare Heroes Gala

Oct. 22: BusinessWest and the Healthcare News will celebrate this year’s eight Healthcare Heroes starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. The class of 2025, profiled in the Sep. 15 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com, includes the Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit at Mercy Medical Center; Areliz Barbosa, clinical assistant professor and senior project coordinator at Bay Path University; Andrea Bertheaud, clinical assistant professor at Elms College; Chrissy Humason, Nursing supervisor and Stroke coordinator at Baystate Noble Hospital; Linda Koh, assistant professor at the Elaine Marieb College of Nursing at UMass Amherst; Cindy Leonard, Infusion manager at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center; Dr. Thomas Lincoln, physician and associate professor of Medicine at Baystate Health; and Dr. Yannis Raftopoulos, director of the Holyoke Medical Center Weight Management Program. Tickets cost $95, and tables of 10 are available. To purchase tickets, visit businesswest.com/healthcareheroes. Presenting sponsors include Baystate Health/Health New England and Elms College. Partner sponsors include Trinity Health Of New England/Mercy Medical Center and Holyoke Medical Center.

 

Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time Fundraiser

Oct. 22: Berkshire Family & Individual Resources (BFAIR) invites the community to an evening of fine wine, food, and music at its upcoming fundraiser, Fall in Love with BFAIR – One Sip at a Time, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Balderdash Cellars, 81 State Road, Richmond. The event, sponsored by Sourcepass, will feature wines paired with appetizers, charcuterie, and desserts by Pizza Trails. It will also feature a lively program including a silent auction, raffles, and live music performed by Brian Benlien. The evening’s proceeds will support BFAIR’s mission of providing quality, individualized services to people with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injury. Tickets cost $100 per person and must be reserved by Oct. 8 at bit.ly/452LPRn.

 

‘Safety Leadership for Your Workplace’

Oct. 23: The Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast (EANE) announced a conference, “Safety Leadership for Your Workplace,” taking place at the Marriott in Springfield. Attendees will experience a full day of presentations, including Dick Flynt from the National Safety Council, OSHA, certified safety professional Dan Williams, and the team from Protective Advanced Safety Services. Qualified Massachusetts employers can apply for reimbursement for conference fees using the MA Express Program. To learn more or register for these events, visit www.eane.org or email Allison Ebner at [email protected].

People on the Move

By
People on the Move
Tom Senecal

Tom Senecal

Tom Senecal recently announced he will retire at the end of 2025 after more than 35 years in the banking industry. PeoplesBank, which he joined in 1995, has grown from a $450 million institution to almost $7 billion at the bank’s mutual holding company. The board of directors of PeoplesBank and the board of trustees of PeoplesBancorp, MHC have unanimously approved a succession plan resulting from the retirement of Senecal at the end of 2025. He currently serves as chairman and CEO of PeoplesBank and PeoplesBancorp, MHC. The CEO role will be filled by Todd Tallman, who will also remain CEO of Cornerstone Bank. Brian Canina will remain president of PeoplesBank and become president of PeoplesBancorp, MHC. Daniel Zona, currently president of Athol Savings Bank, will become president of Cornerstone Bank once the merger of Athol into Cornerstone is completed. Senecal will retain his role as the chairman of the board of directors of PeoplesBank and chairman of the board of trustees of PeoplesBancorp, MHC beginning in 2026.

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Mary Lou Vredenburg

Mary Lou Vredenburg

Miah Dreger

Miah Dreger

Springfield Technical Community College announced the appointments of two new academic leaders, Mary Lou Vredenburg as dean of the School of Liberal and Professional Studies, effective July 7, and Miah Dreger as dean of the School of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), effective Aug. 4. Vredenburg was most recently associate dean of Faculty at Connecticut State Community College’s Manchester campus. Prior to her role in Connecticut, she served as associate dean of Arts, Humanities, Mathematics, and Social Sciences at Brightpoint Community College in Virginia. She was also a full-time faculty member at SUNY Oneonta. A community college graduate, she began her academic journey at SUNY Orange. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history from Binghamton University and earned her PhD in humanities from Florida State University. Dreger joins STCC following a career in Connecticut, most recently as interim associate dean of Engineering, Science, and Technology at Central Connecticut State University. She previously served in key leadership roles within the Connecticut State Community College system, including interim provost and vice president of Academic Affairs at the system level and dean of Academic and Student Affairs at Capital Community College in Hartford. Before transitioning into administrative roles, she spent more than a decade as a full-time faculty member at the community college level. She earned her doctor of education degree in educational leadership from the University of Hartford, holds a master’s degree in technology education from Central Connecticut State University, and received her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Houghton University.

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Emily Leonczyk

Emily Leonczyk

The Markens Group Inc. (TMG), a nationally accredited association management company headquartered in Springfield, announced a transition in ownership to Emily Leonczyk. For many clients and community partners, this news will come as no surprise: Leonczyk has been leading day-to-day operations for more than three years. She now serves as president and CEO, carrying forward a legacy of success established by founder Ben Markens. Founded in 1988 to serve trade and manufacturing associations in fiber-based sustainable packaging, TMG’s roots remain firmly planted in that industry. That foundation has enabled the company to expand its support to a wide range of professional, manufacturing, and medical associations, while remaining true to its original mission: helping member-driven organizations thrive. The company also established the annual Markens Mutuality Award. The inaugural award was presented to Ben Markens to commemorate the transition, recognizing his visionary leadership, ability to bring people together, and steadfast belief in the power of belonging and mutuality. As part of the award, TMG will make an annual donation to a nonprofit chosen by each recipient. This year, the first donation will be made to the Mary Lyon Foundation, a cause close to Markens’s heart.

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Belt Technologies, a manufacturer of PureSteel custom metal belt conveyor solutions, announced that Ryan Elliott has joined the company as vice president of Operations. Based in Agawam, Elliott will oversee operations at both Belt Technologies and its Canadian sister company, Wire Mesh Belt. With more than 20 years of experience in the metals and manufacturing industries, Elliott previously served as president of aerospace components manufacturer HarcoSemco and president of Deringer-Ney, a producer of precious metals and components. Earlier in his career, he held roles across commercial, engineering, and senior leadership positions. At Belt Technologies, Elliott is responsible for overseeing the operational activities of both plants, directing the companies to achieve their production and financial targets. He works closely with manufacturing, purchasing, and quality teams to maximize resources and ensure customer expectations are met or exceeded. Key areas of focus include integrating Wire Mesh Belt into Belt Technologies’ systems and culture, driving improvements on the factory floors, and fostering open communication across the workforce. Elliott earned dual degrees in materials science and physics from Alfred University and holds multiple patents related to advanced materials applications.

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Christian D’Amour

Christian D’Amour

The board of directors of Big Y Foods Inc. announced the appointment of Christian D’Amour as senior director of Supermarket Operations. He will be responsible for the oversight of the five supermarket districts. He began his career at Big Y at the age of 14 as a part-time service clerk. After graduating from college, he worked as a sales and marketing representative for an insurance company based in Providence, R.I., then rejoined Big Y in 2014 as a store director trainee. Within a year, he was promoted to assistant store director at the Wilbraham store. In 2016, he was named store director in Southampton, later returning to manage the Wilbraham location. He was then selected to lead Table & Vine’s flagship store in West Springfield. In 2019, he was appointed district sales and merchandising mentor for Big Y’s 15-store district in Western Massachusetts. In this role, he oversaw sales, merchandising, and team development across all departments, while continuing to manage operations at Table & Vine. In 2021, D’Amour took on leadership of Big Y’s e-commerce platform, a role he held through 2023. He was subsequently appointed district director, overseeing 16 Big Y locations across Connecticut. He holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Michael’s College in Vermont and spent a semester studying at the National University of Ireland at Galway.

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Gary Talbot

Gary Talbot

UMassFive College Federal Credit Union is celebrating mortgage loan officer Gary Talbot’s recognition as a silver level MassHousing loan originator for FY 2025. UMassFive became an approved MassHousing lender in 2023, and in his first year, Talbot was recognized at the Bronze Level. Advancing to Silver this year reflects not only his dedication to serving UMassFive members, but also the strong momentum of a program that is making a meaningful difference for homebuyers across Massachusetts. MassHousing, an independent agency established in 1966, provides financing for affordable housing throughout the Commonwealth. Its programs offer valuable tools such as down payment assistance, affordable loan terms, and unique mortgage insurance. FY 2025 marked a record-breaking year for MassHousing, with 3,768 loans funded.

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Bulkley Richardson recently welcomed three associates to the firm. Nicole Palmieri, Johannah Huynh, and Cameron Reis, all previous summer associates with the firm, returned this fall as associates. Palmieri and Huynh will concentrate their practice in litigation, while Reis will focus on transactional work, including business, mergers and acquisitions, construction, and healthcare. Palmieri earned a juris doctorate, cum laude, from the University of Connecticut School of Law in 2024, where she was on the Connecticut Law Review and a University of Connecticut Scholar. She spent the past year clerking with the Connecticut Appellate Court. She received a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, in American studies from Christopher Newport University. Reis recently earned a juris doctorate, magna cum laude, from Western New England University School of Law, where he concentrated his studies on transactional law and served as an editor of the Law Review. He was an Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. Scholar, a CALI award recipient, and was awarded the CATIC Foundation Award for Excellence in Real Property Coursework. He earned a bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in criminal justice at Pace University. Huynh also recently earned a juris doctorate from Western New England University School of Law, where she received the Best Oral Advocate Award and was a member of the National Moot Court team. In addition to being a former summer associate, she served as a law clerk at Bulkley Richardson during her last year of law school. She earned a bachelor’s degree, summa cum laude, from UMass Amherst in social thought and political economy.

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Vanessa Ford

Vanessa Ford

Saryah Brantley

Saryah Brantley

Elijah Ballard Deon

Elijah Ballard Deon

The African Hall Committee of Springfield Museums announced that Vanessa Ford, vocalist, composer, and arts leader, is this year’s Ubora Award recipient, and — for the first time in the history of the awards — two Springfield students were selected to receive the Ahadi Youth Award: Saryah Brantley and Elijah Ballard Deon. Ford is a dynamic performer whose career spans music, public service, and community health. She is also a faculty member at the Community Music School of Springfield and the director of the Trust Transfer Project, a nationally recognized initiative that mobilizes artists to address public health through creative expression. She also serves as board president of Blues to Green Inc. and is a board member of Common Wealth Murals and member of the Brianna Fund for Children with Physical Disabilities gospel planning team, as well as a member of the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts Youth Mental Health Advisory Coalition and the New England Teaching Artist Collaborative steering group. Brantley, a recent graduate of Hampden Charter School of Science, is an exceptional student and leader who has persevered through personal challenges with resilience and determination. She has excelled academically, taking four AP courses, maintaining a 4.38 GPA, and earning certificates of scholastic achievement. She is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in psychology at Spelman. Ballard Deon distinguished himself as an exceptional scholar and leader throughout his years at Rise Early College High School. Consistently earning first honors, he graduated as valedictorian of his class this past spring and challenged himself by enrolling in Rise’s early college program in partnership with Springfield Technical Community College.

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Aditya Surendhra

Aditya Surendhra

Dietz & Company Architects Inc. announced that architect Aditya Surendhra has earned the credential of LEED accredited professional with a building design and construction (LEED AP BD+C) specialty through the U.S Green Building Council (USGBC), a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability in the built environment. The LEED AP BD+C designation denotes proficiency in current sustainable design, construction, and operations standards, and signifies expertise in green building and a LEED rating system. In order to achieve LEED certification, Surendhra completed a rigorous, multi-part exam to prove his knowledge on the subject. He joined Dietz & Company Architects in 2020 as an architectural associate and is now an architect in its Cambridge office, where his focus is on design and project management for multi-family housing and community centers.

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Country Bank announced that Sarah Yurkunas, assistant vice president, commercial lender, has been named the inaugural recipient of the PFS Community Champion Award. This newly established award honors an individual who demonstrates an exceptional commitment to volunteerism, both through Country Bank-sponsored initiatives and through personal dedication to causes that hold deep meaning for them. Yurkunas was nominated by a colleague for her extraordinary volunteer service and recognized for her compassion and commitment to Second Chance Animal Services. Since 2018, she has devoted more than 347 hours of personal volunteer time at the shelter, arriving every Sunday morning, even in the rain, snow, or on holidays, to clean kennels and feed, brush, and comfort animals in need. In addition, she has contributed more than 70 hours volunteering at Country Bank-sponsored community events since 2023. As part of this recognition, and in honor of Country Bank’s former president and CEO, Paul Scully, who retired in 2024, Yurkunas was able to direct a $2,000 donation to a charity of her choice. She selected Second Chance Animal Services, extending her impact even further.

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Tracy Bentley-Root

Tracy Bentley-Root

Bay Path University announced the appointment of Tracy Bentley-Root as the new program director of Occupational Therapy. Bentley-Root brings more than two decades of teaching, research, clinical practice, and administrative experience to her new leadership role in Bay Path’s master of occupational therapy (MOT) program. Bentley-Root joined Bay Path as interim program director in July 2024. A licensed and board-certified occupational therapist since 1997, she earned both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees in occupational therapy from D’Youville College and a doctorate in health science from the University of Indianapolis in 2022. She has presented her work at national and international conferences, including the American Occupational Therapy Assoc. and the upcoming 2026 World Federation of Occupational Therapists Congress in Bangkok. Her research focuses on fieldwork education, interprofessional collaboration, cognitive intervention, and evidence-based practice. Her work has been recognized with multiple awards, including the D’Youville University Faculty Award for 2021-22. In addition to her university roles, Bentley-Root has served in a variety of clinical and leadership capacities, including as corporate director of Rehab Clinical Resources at Amedisys Home Health. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Occupational Therapy Assoc. and the New York State Occupational Therapy Assoc.

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Amy Ganci

Amy Ganci

Greylock Federal Credit Union announced the hiring of Vice President, Business Banking Officer Amy Ganci, who joins the credit union’s Business Banking team. As part of the Business Banking team, Ganci will originate and underwrite commercial loan products and collaborate on business development activities, serving as an advisor for Greylock’s members by providing insight and support to small businesses. She will interface with loan applicants, act as account officer for existing credit union relationships, and manage all aspects of business development. Ganci has nearly 25 years of experience in business banking; her most recent role was vice president at PeoplesBank, where she managed a robust portfolio of client relationships, developed new relationships and expanded existing ones, and worked closely with branch partners to provide solutions to both new and existing clients. An active participant at her church and children’s schools, Ganci holds an associate degree in business from Greenfield Community College and has completed extensive coursework in business/financial management, psychology, and sociology from Westfield State University.

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Community Action Pioneer Valley (CAPV), the federally designated anti-poverty agency serving Franklin and Hampshire counties, announced that Lev BenEzra has been selected as the organization’s new executive director following an extensive search. She will succeed Clare Higgins, who retired in July after nearly 14 years of leadership. BenEzra will begin her new role on Oct. 27. Since 2019, she has served as executive director of the Amherst Survival Center, where she led the organization to become the largest direct-service food security organization in Western Mass. From 2008 to 2019, she served as program manager and then department director of CAPV’s Youth and Workforce Development programs. During her previous tenure, she successfully grew the department, strengthened program outcomes, and built lasting partnerships across the region. Her community involvement extended beyond her direct role, as she co-chaired the Communities that Care Coalition and actively participated in numerous other regional coalitions and CAPV internal committees, including strategic planning initiatives. BenEzra holds a master’s degree in management of mission driven organizations.

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Claire Sanders

Claire Sanders

Willie Ross School for the Deaf (WRSD) announced a new chair of its board of trustees. Claire Sanders is the second deaf chair of the board in the school’s history, following the late George Balsley II, who served as chair until his passing in early 2025. Sanders, who has been teaching in the field of American Sign Language and deaf studies for more than 25 years, serves as a Deaf Studies department chair and a professor of Language and Culture at Holyoke Community College. She has also taught at numerous colleges, including Hampshire College, Keene State College, Mt. Wachusett Community College, River Valley Community College, and Greenfield Community College. Sanders holds a master’s-level national certification from the American Sign Language Teachers Assoc. In addition to her service on the WRSD board, she is a board member of the Western Massachusetts Assoc. for the Deaf and has led workshops related to the growing field of deaf studies.

•••••

Country Bank and the WooSox Foundation recently announced the 2025 WooStars, a program that supports nonprofit leaders throughout the region. Country Bank and the Worcester Red Sox recently recognized five local WooStars and the nonprofits they are affiliated with at Polar Park. They include Joe Firmani of Operation Service, Anthony Bizzotto of Revive of the USA Inc., Robert Alves of Wicked in Pink, Donna Marratta of Lorraine’s Soup Kitchen and Pantry Inc., and Tom Slicklen of Provision Ministry. Each nonprofit was presented with a $5,000 donation. The WooStars program allows community members to nominate outstanding individuals to recognize their contributions to the communities they serve and to contribute to the nonprofits they support. Now in its fifth year, this program has recognized 41 WooStars, providing $205,000 in donations.

•••••

Stacy Roman

Stacy Roman

MountainOne Insurance Agency announced the promotion of Stacy Roman to vice president, personal lines operations manager, reflecting the agency’s long-term priorities of professional enrichment, internal mobility, and leadership excellence. Roman has been instrumental in shaping the direction of the agency’s personal lines operations with her strong leadership and operational expertise. She has led the agency through acquisitions, data conversions, and the creation of more efficient workflows. Her problem-solving instincts and ability to improve both client and employee experiences make her an invaluable member of the leadership team.

•••••

Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced that Dominika Jasinska, recently crowned Polish Miss Massachusetts 2026, will represent the Commonwealth at the Miss Polish America national competition. Jasinska, a member of PNCU, won the Massachusetts title earlier this month, captivating judges with her grace, intelligence, and deep connection to her Polish heritage. The Polish Miss Massachusetts Pageant, held annually in Holyoke, celebrates young women of Polish descent aged 18 to 25, offering scholarships and a platform to showcase cultural pride and leadership. Jasinska’s victory marks a significant milestone, and she is poised to make a strong impression at the national level, where she will compete against other talented Polish-American women for the Miss Polish America title. In addition to her national competition preparations, Jasinska will participate in the Pulaski Day Parade in New York City on Sunday, Oct. 5 and the Pulaski Parade in Northampton on Monday, Oct. 13.

•••••

Richard Merrifield Jr.

Freedom Credit Union announced that Richard Merrifield Jr. has joined its Ludlow branch as branch officer, where he leads a team focused on delivering exceptional service and personalized financial solutions for members. Merrifield brings more than a decade of experience in banking and credit unions, with a strong background in branch operations, lending, and community engagement. Before joining Freedom in 2025, he served as banking center assistant manager at PeoplesBank in Northampton. Active in the community Merrifield is an ambassador for the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce and supports volunteer efforts throughout Hampshire and Hampden counties. He earned an associate degree in business administration from Middlesex Community College.

•••••

American International College (AIC) announced the appointment of five new members to its board of trustees, effective July 1. The new trustees are Charlie Carroll, John Falcone, Stefania Raschilla, Rachel Romano, and Rebecca Thibault. Carroll is a financial advisor for Edward Jones Investment Co. A graduate of AIC with a bachelor’s degree in marketing, he began his career as a financial planner with American Express. Over the years, he has held leadership roles with nationally recognized firms, including Liberty Mutual, TD Bank, TD Ameritrade, and First Country Bank, serving in positions ranging from head of Sales to senior vice president. In addition to his undergraduate degree, Carroll holds a level II certified financial planner certification. He is actively involved in his community, volunteering with Xavier High School in Middletown, Conn., as well as with local youth football and cheerleading organizations, and was recently asked to join the executive leadership committee for the New Haven, Conn. Walk for Alzheimer’s Assoc. Falcone began his career as an acquisitions analyst at Colony Hills Capital before joining his family’s business, Rocky’s Ace Hardware. Since then, he has held several roles within the company, including category manager and director of merchandising. In his current position as process engineer, he focuses on streamlining operations, developing scalable processes, and advancing innovation to strengthen organizational performance. Falcone earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from Bentley University and an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship from the FW Olin Graduate School of Business at Babson College. Raschilla has served as the superintendent of schools in West Springfield since May 2023, overseeing nine schools and nearly 4,000 students. She has worked in urban public education since 1999, beginning her career in the Springfield Public Schools. Over the years, she has served in a range of roles, including elementary school teacher, reading director, principal, and chief instructional officer. Raschilla earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Saint Mary’s College and a master of education degree in reading from American International College. She also holds a professional license from the Massachusetts Department of Education. Romano is the founder and executive director of Veritas Prep Charter School in Springfield, which was established in 2012 as a middle school and has since expanded to include a high school. Before founding Veritas Prep, she served as a teacher and school leader in the Springfield Public Schools and as executive director of the Christa McAuliffe Regional Charter School in Framingham. Romano earned a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism from Syracuse University and a master of education degree in educational administration from the University of Massachusetts. She was selected as a 2010 fellow with Building Excellent Schools. Thibault is a shareholder and co-managing partner at Doherty, Wallace, Pillsbury & Murphy, P.C., where she focuses on advising and representing businesses and institutions in corporate and transactional matters, including real estate. Her clients include educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, and for-profit businesses across a range of sectors. Thibault earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Trinity College and a juris doctorate from Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, where she served as managing editor of the Washington University Global Studies Law Review. She currently serves on the board of the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts and is on the personnel committee of the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Each December, she leads the firm’s team in the Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage in Northampton, raising funds and awareness to support survivors of domestic violence.

Company Notebook

By
Company Notebook

UMass Amherst Receives $4 Million in Research Gifts

AMHERST — UMass Amherst has accepted gifts and commitments totaling $4 million from longtime supporters John and Elizabeth Armstrong to advance the university’s research enterprise. The gifts establish the UMass Amherst Research Continuity Fund, the Armstrong Graduate Research Grant Fund, and the Armstrong Chancellor Professorships Award Fund, all of which will underwrite research contributions across a broad range of disciplines at UMass Amherst. In April, the Armstrongs made a $500,000 gift to the UMass Amherst Research Continuity Fund, which was established to provide immediate support to continue vital research despite federal funding interruptions and uncertainty about future funding in fields such as health equity, climate change, and gender-related issues. The Armstrong Graduate Research Grant Fund, established with a $1 million gift, will provide grants in support of research conducted by graduate students at UMass Amherst. This fund will be a crucial resource for doctoral students pursuing dissertation research, graduate student access to training in innovative methods, and students looking to participate in research projects supervised by faculty that directly foster their completion of an advanced degree. The remaining $2.5 million portion of the Armstrongs’ commitment will create an endowed Armstrong Chancellor Professorships Award Fund. Administered by the chancellor and provost, this fund will enable the university to retain outstanding, tenured faculty members who have made or can make significant contributions to the academic reputation of the university.

 

Red Sox Foundation Awards $400,000 to Square One

BOSTON — The Red Sox Foundation announced the creation of its Special Recognition Award, granting $750,000 in its inaugural year to support large-scale, high-impact community investments. Square One of Springfield received $400,000 to support the construction of an outdoor learning center and play space for preschool-aged children, part of the organization’s ongoing $19 million “Back to Square One” capital campaign to rebuild its campus after a tornado destroyed its South End facility in 2011. The Pedro Martinez Foundation received $350,000 toward the creation of a new library inside its Community & Health Center in Manoguayabo, Dominican Republic. The Red Sox have deep ties to the Dominican Republic through both player development and community engagement, including the foundation’s longstanding Lindos Sueños program, a partner of the Pedro Martinez Foundation. The new library will provide reading areas, computer access, and study spaces for more than 1,700 students, while also serving adult community members.

 

The Dowd Insurance Agencies Relocate Ludlow Office

HOLYOKE — On Sept. 8, the Ideal-Dowd Insurance Agency office in Ludlow relocated from 187 East St. to a new location a mile and a half away at 563 Center St. “This move underscores our commitment to serving the Greater Ludlow community,” said John Dowd, president and CEO of the Dowd Insurance Agencies. “The new location provides more parking and wider access, along with more space for our growing staff. Our clients can continue to expect the same familiar faces and the exceptional service they’ve come to rely on.” The new office offers a central location for convenient access, ample parking, and room to grow. The agency looks forward to welcoming clients to its new Ludlow location to review coverage, pay a bill, or simply stop by and say hello.

 

D.A. Sullivan & Sons Wins HNE Well Worth It Award

NORTHAMPTON — D.A. Sullivan & Sons Inc. (DAS), a general contracting firm based in Northampton, has been named a 2025 Health New England Well Worth It Award recipient at the Bronze level for successful worksite health promotion and employee health improvement. The award recognizes DAS’s commitment to its employees’ overall health and their achievements in implementing health and wellness programs during the previous year. This recognition underscores DAS’s commitment to supporting the overall well-being of its employees through programs that nurture physical, mental, and emotional health. In addition to providing comprehensive health coverage for employees and their families — including life and disability insurance — DAS has invested in resources that promote a balanced and active lifestyle. Recent initiatives include the creation of a private fitness studio, the addition of indoor and outdoor recreational spaces, and encouragement of employee participation in community activities such as volunteer programs and charitable races.

 

Bay Path Named Among Best Bang for the Buck Colleges

LONGMEADOW — Bay Path University has been ranked sixth in Massachusetts and 42nd in the Northeast on Washington Monthly’s list of Best Bang for the Buck Colleges. The publication, described as an independent media organization based in Washington, D.C., was founded in 1969 on the mission “to preserve democracy and champion good governance through honest journalism and thoughtful commentary.” Schools are ranked according to how well they help students from less affluent backgrounds attain marketable degrees at affordable prices. Washington Monthly calculates its rankings based on several factors: access for non-wealthy students, affordability for families with incomes below $75,000, student debt upon graduation, and both academic and financial outcomes for graduates.

 

bankESB Honored Among Most Charitable Companies

EASTHAMPTON — bankESB announced it has been recognized by the Boston Business Journal with the 2025 Corporate Citizenship Award, reaffirming its status as one of Massachusetts’s most charitable companies. This marks the 11th consecutive year bankESB has earned this recognition, an acknowledgment of the bank’s deeply rooted commitment to community support through both financial contributions and volunteerism. Central to bankESB’s philanthropic framework is its signature charitable giving initiative, the Giving Tree. Through this program, bankESB champions a range of community needs, supporting food security, affordable housing, education, veteran services, youth sports, and more throughout the cities and towns it serves. Over the past decade, the Giving Tree has donated more than $4 million to area nonprofits. In 2024 alone, the program contributed nearly $515,000, and this year’s initiatives — including seasonal food pantry drives and local education grants — continue to strengthen local institutions and impact lives. This year, 99 companies qualified for distinction as Top Charitable Contributors by reporting at least $100,000 in cash contributions to Massachusetts-based charities last year. The honorees this year include companies from such industry sectors as financial and professional services, healthcare, technology, retail, and professional sports.

 

Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin Earns Chambers Spotlight Recognition

SPRINGFIELD — Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C. announced it has been ranked in the inaugural Chambers Spotlight Massachusetts Guide, a new ranking from the internationally recognized legal research company Chambers and Partners. The firm was honored for its expertise in corporate/commercial law and trusts and estates law. Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin is the only firm in Western Mass. ranked in either category, underscoring its unique position as a leading resource for businesses and individuals seeking sophisticated legal counsel outside of Boston. The Chambers Spotlight rankings are awarded to select small and mid-sized law firms that demonstrate exceptional skill and results in their practice areas, based on Chambers’ rigorous, independent research. The Massachusetts Spotlight Guide is available at chambers.com. While the Massachusetts firms typically ranked by Chambers are ‘big law’ organizations, the Spotlight Massachusetts Guide highlights a small, select group of high-performing mid-sized firms, giving them visibility to general counsel, attorneys, and business leaders worldwide. Currently, no other Massachusetts firms have been announced in this edition.

 

Berkshire Innovation Center Announces Accelerator Cohort

PITTSFIELD — The Berkshire Innovation Center (BIC) announced the third cohort of startup firms that have been accepted into its Stage 2 Accelerator program. This 35-week, hands-on, results-oriented program is designed to serve early-stage tech startups. The awardees will receive BIC membership, full access to labs, advanced equipment, digital media studio, educational programming, and an internal team of subject matter experts, as well as broad, curated support from BIC’s committed member community. Six firms have been accepted into the third cohort of the BIC Stage 2 Accelerator. Diel Technologies has developed a patented axial flux motor that allows wearables to harvest energy while in motion, whether running a marathon or picking up a cup of coffee. Elimentra Technologies is developing a proprietary system that collocates processing units at the source of biomass and industrial waste byproducts, converting these end-stream materials in high-value-add commodities while capturing carbon that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. ENSO is reshaping the future of addiction recovery for more than 48 million Americans with an AI-powered behavior management system that delivers real-time, personalized support through a discreet wearable device and secure mobile platform. Globe Grown’s mission is to develop a fully autonomous robot that will help farmers reduce chemical herbicide use, improve soil health, and empower growers with data-driven, regenerative farming tools. HKG Energy has developed a proprietary material, Terra Silicon, that addresses the scalability, cost, and performance limitations of conventional graphite and silicon-graphite battery anodes. With a demonstrated energy density of over 400 watt hours per kilogram, fast-charging capabilities under 15 minutes, and a clear path to mass production, the firm is engaging with major original equipment manufacturers and battery manufacturers for early pilots. TaskMind is developing a full-circle sales platform designed to help teams sell smarter and harder. It is built for firms looking to improve the quality, precision, and efficiency of their sales outreach. Its intelligent web application equips sales representatives with the tools they need to generate deep research reports, craft high-context outreach, monitor real-time industry insights, and identify trends that guide smarter targeting.

 

Holyoke Mall Welcomes Urban Planet x Charlotte Russe

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Mall announced that Urban Planet x Charlotte Russe is the newest addition to its retail lineup, located on the upper level near Best Buy. To celebrate the grand opening, the store hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Sept. 12. On Sept. 13, the first 100 customers to enter the store received a gift bag. Urban Planet x Charlotte Russe is a new concept that brings together two popular fashion brands in one stylish destination. The store offers apparel, footwear, and accessories for men and women, with a focus on inclusive, versatile styles.

 

Herrell’s Ice Cream Wins City Beat News Spectrum Award

NORTHAMPTON — Herrell’s Ice Cream of Thornes Marketplace in Northampton and the Mill District in Amherst is being honored as a winner of the City Beat News 2025 Spectrum Award for Service Excellence. According to City Beat News, Herrell’s provides consistently great service and places great service as a top priority of its business, earning the highest annual rating for service by the Spectrum Award. Annually, out of the thousands of businesses that City Beat News researches, only a very small percentage performs to the level Herrell’s has reached. This is the second year Herrell’s has received a Spectrum Award from City Beat News.

 

 

1Berkshire Awards Grant to Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds

PITTSFIELD — 1Berkshire, thanks to a one-time earmark from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, announced the awarding of a $15,000 Immigrant Entrepreneurial Support Grant to Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds. This grant represents the second of two high-impact partner grant awards made by 1Berkshire to help foster the ecosystem and infrastructure needed to help the robust Berkshire immigrant entrepreneur community grow and thrive. Leveraging a one-time earmark allocated by the Commonwealth, 1Berkshire’s Immigrant Business Support Program launched in early 2025 to provide a variety of financial and technical assistance support to help entrepreneurs and businesses in the region gain improved access to programs that help their businesses improve. This high-impact partner grant awarded to Roots & Dreams and Mustard Seeds advances this work by helping the organization to overcome a final funding hurdle to fit out a shared commercial kitchen space in its building at 117-133 Fenn St. in Pittsfield. Additionally, this $15,000 aims to help offset some of the $37,000 in Community Empowerment and Reinvestment Fund (CERP) funds cut from a previously awarded CERP grant (a funding resource that has been integral to its work over the past two years). The multi-use spaces of 117-133 Fenn St. have already become a major anchor point of community, support, and entrepreneurship for a diverse array of individuals and small businesses. Fitting out this new shared kitchen space will further improve the ability of the space to become an incubator and accelerator of various food businesses.

 

UMass Amherst to Establish New Graduate Training Program

AMHERST — A UMass Amherst research team led by faculty from the Elaine Marieb Center for Nursing and Engineering Innovation (EMCNEI) has been awarded nearly $3 million to establish the nation’s first graduate training program designed to combine nursing’s hands-on patient care with engineering’s technical knowledge. The five-year U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) award will create SHINE: Strengthening Healthcare Innovation through Nursing and Engineering. In partnership with Baystate Health, this program will tackle some of healthcare’s toughest challenges around the realities of patient care. Its four main focal areas of work include streamlining healthcare workflow to ensure continuous, quality patient care; leveraging automation and robotics; improving the safety and usability of intravenous (IV) infusion pumps; and developing innovative healthcare products. A fundamental part of SHINE is the partnership between EMCNEI and Baystate Health. By uniting frontline clinical expertise with the interdisciplinary academic resources and research at UMass, the collaboration ensures that new technologies are designed around the realities of patient care.

 

Berkshire Bank Named Among Top Charitable Contributors

BOSTON — The Boston Business Journal recently honored Berkshire Bank as a Top Charitable Contributor in Massachusetts for the 13th consecutive year at its 2025 Corporate Citizenship Awards. This annual honor showcases companies that prioritize giving back to their communities. Recipients gave $100,000 or more to Massachusetts-based in charities in 2024. Collectively, they gave more than $416 million in cash contributions.

 

Hampden Charter School of Science Recognized by U.S. News

CHICOPEE — Hampden Charter School of Science (HCSS) was ranked among the state’s best high schools by U.S. News & World Report in its annual Best High Schools ranking. The school ranked first among all public high schools in the Springfield metro area and placed 52nd in the state of Massachusetts. The U.S. News Best High Schools rankings include data on more than 24,000 public high schools in 50 states and the District of Columbia. Nearly 18,000 schools were ranked on six factors based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college. HCSS received 93.3 out of a possible 100 points in the rankings. HCSS’s graduation rate played a role in its state ranking; the school graduated 95% of its class. Graduates have gone on to some of the most prestigious colleges in the country, including Harvard. U.S. News also noted that 86% of HCSS students are taking advanced placement courses, and that 77% are minority.

 

River Valley Counseling Center Wins Supervision Capacity Grant

HOLYOKE — River Valley Counseling Center (RVCC), now a member of ServiceNet, has received a $912,000 award through the Healey-Driscoll administration’s Behavioral Health Supervising Clinicians Incentive Program, the largest award to a behavioral health provider in Western Mass. This funding, from the Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Behavioral Health Trust, supports stipends for licensed clinicians who supervise interns and unlicensed staff, a crucial but time-intensive role that often goes uncompensated. RVCC employs nearly 200 unlicensed clinicians who can see clients under supervision. With this grant, senior clinicians can dedicate more time to mentoring, with financial recognition that fosters retention and stability. Awarded over a two-year period, the grant offsets the time supervisors invest in training and mentoring, allowing RVCC to further build and sustain a high-quality path to licensure.

Real Estate Transactions

By
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

Ashfield Mountain Road
Ashfield, MA 01330
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Lous A. Ebel
Seller: David B. Gilbert Keith TR
Date: 08/22/25

BERNARDSTON

31 Deane Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $361,500
Buyer: Brenda L. Boguslawski
Seller: Frederick D. Rowe
Date: 08/29/25

BUCKLAND

16 Green St.
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Amber Garcia
Seller: Shannon S. Menko
Date: 08/29/25

34 Green St.
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Elizabeth M. Balawick
Seller: Peter A. Otten
Date: 08/29/25

23 South St.
Buckland, MA 01338
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Kathleen A. Casey
Seller: Blue On South LLC
Date: 08/26/25

5 Wilde Road
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Emily Vail
Seller: Matthew Wanamaker
Date: 08/26/25

COLRAIN

34 York Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Eric Savoie
Seller: Marcie A. Savoie
Date: 08/29/25

CONWAY

56 Brester Road
Conway, MA 01341
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Christopher D. Law
Seller: Michael S. Forrest
Date: 08/29/25

DEERFIELD

106 North Main St.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Marc E. Dautreuil
Seller: Michael E. Ramon
Date: 08/19/25

248 Stillwater Road
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $765,000
Buyer: Michael E. Ramon
Seller: Bethany L. Deshaies
Date: 08/19/25

ERVING

12 Warner St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Rebecca J. Crapo
Seller: Carner, George K., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

GILL

242 West Gill Road
Gill, MA 01354
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Molley Duclos
Seller: Regis A. Crosby TR
Date: 08/25/25

GREENFIELD

581 Bernardston Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Johanna Munro
Seller: John B. Dunphy
Date: 08/26/25

283 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Heather Matys
Seller: Bobbie Clark
Date: 08/20/25

385 Chapman St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Providence Moldovian Bass
Date: 08/20/25

219 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $419,000
Buyer: Sarah M. Norris
Seller: Kimberly J. Zabek
Date: 08/22/25

32 Lincoln St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Benegan 2 LLC
Seller: Mark L. Jacquez
Date: 08/26/25

102 Norwood St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $326,000
Buyer: Taylor Pompei
Seller: Edward A. Underwood
Date: 08/25/25

53 Norwood St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Steven Graham
Seller: Patricia L. Jordan
Date: 08/26/25

21 Raingley Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $392,000
Buyer: Jamie M. Bennett
Seller: Corinne A. Fitzgerald
Date: 08/22/25

17 Revere Circle
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Jonathan J. Bones
Seller: Matthew P. Garriss
Date: 08/28/25

83 Smith St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Josiah G. Spencer-Blaetz
Seller: James Dinan
Date: 08/20/25

104 Wells St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Charles F. Gabriel
Seller: Graydon E. Vigneau
Date: 08/28/25

12 Western Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Michael B. Devanny
Seller: Kevin Clarke
Date: 08/20/25

24 White Birch Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $309,300
Buyer: Conner Bobala
Seller: Lyle M. Augusto
Date: 08/21/25

LEVERETT

142 Shutesbury Road
Leverett, MA 01054
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Jay Mooney
Seller: David A. Peterson
Date: 08/22/25

MONTAGUE

108 3rd St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: William R. Crosby
Seller: Della Ripa Real Estate LLC
Date: 08/22/25

25 Davis St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Nicholas Croteau
Seller: John A. Greene INT
Date: 08/22/25

166 East Chestnut Hill Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $253,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Ohara
Seller: Donna G. Petersen
Date: 08/21/25

254 Federal St.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Lucas B. Wilson
Seller: Allison N. Shearer
Date: 08/28/25

96 High St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $353,000
Buyer: Griffin Leistinger
Seller: Jonathan R. Lord
Date: 08/19/25

67 Hillside Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Thomas Underwood
Seller: Manuel Furtado
Date: 08/21/25

407 Montague City Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Katherine Contois
Seller: Barry M. Lapean
Date: 08/29/25

31-33 Randall Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Gary W. Houle
Seller: Laurel A. Jablonski
Date: 08/22/25

48 Randall Wood Dr.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $439,500
Buyer: Christina L. Feller
Seller: Justin T. Fermann
Date: 08/20/25

50 Vladish Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $359,000
Buyer: Nicholas Mangs
Seller: Wendy E. Shaw
Date: 08/29/25

NEW SALEM

19 Lavoie Lane
New Salem, MA 01355
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jay A. Chaplin
Seller: Jeanne W. Clayton
Date: 08/20/25

NORTHFIELD

34 Ashuelot Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Ethan Minor
Seller: Powers INT
Date: 08/29/25

43 Meadow St.
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Phillip Sherwood-Berndt
Seller: Carroll, Brian, (Estate)
Date: 08/29/25

309 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: A. Plus Enterprises Inc.
Seller: Brenda O’Connell
Date: 08/19/25

761 Millers Falls Road
Northfield, MA 01360
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Jean M. Dresley
Seller: Noelle T. Anson
Date: 08/29/25

ORANGE

98 Mechanic St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Kenny Perez
Seller: Linda L. Chaplin
Date: 08/20/25

140 Memorial Dr.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $352,000
Buyer: Alan C. Barton
Seller: Taynan V. Barros
Date: 08/19/25

40 Town Farm Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Timothy Bowen
Seller: Dana Granquist
Date: 08/27/25

148 Walnut Hill Road
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Marie Mellott
Seller: Cellana, Kelly L., (Estate)
Date: 08/29/25

12 Wheeler Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $263,000
Buyer: Katherine Schmittlein
Seller: W. F. & Patty J. Bowen RET
Date: 08/29/25

ROWE

10 Kings Hwy.
Rowe, MA 01367
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Evan Cusack
Seller: Unitarian Universalist
Date: 08/29/25

SHELBURNE

1 Murray Place
Shelburne, MA 01370
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Benjamin Chase
Seller: Mary E. Renner
Date: 08/28/25

SHUTESBURY

209 Baker Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $238,730
Buyer: Andrew Diciccio
Seller: Secretary Of Housing & Urban Development
Date: 08/21/25

26 Farrar Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Conor R. Ameigh
Seller: Alec C. Rivera
Date: 08/21/25

18 January Hills Road
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Charles D. Dana
Seller: Dolores M. Conway
Date: 08/28/25

WENDELL

78 Wickett Pond Road
Wendell, MA 01379
Amount: $539,000
Buyer: Jessica E. Bryant
Seller: Judith A. Hall RET
Date: 08/29/25

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

5 Brookside Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Ryan C. Martin
Seller: Maria T. Cabrera
Date: 08/19/25

53 Cecile St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Camille A. Aloisi
Seller: Elias, Geraldine A., (Estate)
Date: 08/28/25

12 Cosgrove Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Patricia Zabala
Seller: Zachary Matys
Date: 08/20/25

78 Elmar Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Erin Mattimoe
Seller: Philip M. Edwards
Date: 08/28/25

92 Forest Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Donna Roundy
Seller: Donald H. Willett
Date: 08/20/25

65 Hendom Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Wolf Of Westside LLC
Seller: Manchester Ent. LLC
Date: 08/26/25

27 Marlene Dr.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $349,070
Buyer: Shavone Gauthier
Seller: Lucien D. Berthiaume
Date: 08/27/25

55 James St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $365,500
Buyer: Timothy J. Gaston
Seller: Hannah E. Martin
Date: 08/20/25

15 King St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: DTT Realty LLC
Seller: Michael Delaney
Date: 08/21/25

1443 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: James Kukharchuk
Seller: Neri D. Morataya
Date: 08/22/25

75 Memory Lane
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Hanna D. Awkal
Seller: Russell D. Fontaine
Date: 08/22/25

118 Moore St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Megan Martin
Seller: John Martin
Date: 08/19/25

429 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Youngsang Kim
Seller: Paul R. Gauthier
Date: 08/21/25

26 Pineview Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Nina Bruno
Seller: Susan D. Comee
Date: 08/27/25

66 Ramah Circle South
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $654,830
Buyer: RNL 2025D Owner LLC
Seller: Popco Real Estate LLC
Date: 08/28/25

24 South West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Deborah St Peter
Seller: Dalal Mazraeh
Date: 08/28/25

BRIMFIELD

134 East Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $360,300
Buyer: Phillip D. Cordello
Seller: Bonnie L. Pytel
Date: 08/25/25

CHESTER

110 Middlefield Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Bailey J. Jones
Seller: Timothy J. O’Brien
Date: 08/22/25

20 William St.
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Brian White
Seller: Dillon S. Durrence
Date: 08/21/25

CHICOPEE

49 Anson St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Kayla S. Lafortune
Seller: Cristina G. Gonzalez
Date: 08/22/25

169 Beauchamp Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $319,400
Buyer: Vincent Brower
Seller: David O. Brodeur
Date: 08/20/25

13 Beston St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: O&L LLC
Seller: Citrus Property Investors LLC
Date: 08/19/25

63 Beverly St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $364,000
Buyer: C. Gonzalez-Dejesus
Seller: Demesis Torres
Date: 08/18/25

538 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $550,043
Buyer: B&B Properties LLC
Seller: Jjrob Realty LLC
Date: 08/29/25

43 Caddyshack Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $580,000
Buyer: Patrick D. Goldrup
Seller: David M. Pise
Date: 08/25/25

112 Casey Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Justine Jaworski
Seller: Michael A. Justice
Date: 08/21/25

209 Casey Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Kimberly J. Zabek
Seller: M&G Land Development LLC
Date: 08/22/25

32 Chateaugay St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $318,500
Buyer: Abdallah Mustafa
Seller: Kenneth F. Valego
Date: 08/18/25

40 Fillmore St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Timothy A. O’Grady
Seller: Cynthia A. Viamari
Date: 08/29/25

359 Granby Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $331,000
Buyer: Teri A. Lee
Seller: Mark R. McAuliffe
Date: 08/21/25

165 Haven Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Eric Dembinske
Seller: Arpc LLC
Date: 08/29/25

631 James St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Chelsea Peterson
Seller: Carlisle, Louise J., (Estate)
Date: 08/26/25

28 Labelle Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Lauren Gougeon
Seller: Edward C. Cole
Date: 08/28/25

72 Laclede Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: James C. Desmarais
Seller: James C. Desmariais
Date: 08/20/25

232 Lafayette St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Joselmang D. Leon-Cruz
Seller: 1066 Granby Road LLC
Date: 08/29/25

119 Longwood Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Randy Soucia
Seller: Mercier, Lorena, (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

25 Mellen St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Brian L. Mendes
Seller: Victor M. Mendes
Date: 08/22/25

Polaski Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Aya Custom Homes Inc.
Seller: Olesya Lebedinskaya
Date: 08/28/25

88 Prospect St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $229,500
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Commercial Lender LLC
Date: 08/20/25

49 Roberts Pond Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Gregory Szyluk
Seller: Michael Hannum
Date: 08/29/25

70 Rzasa Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Daniel Velez
Seller: Claire I. O’Neil
Date: 08/29/25

41 Yvette St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Erich X. Wolmart-Hernandez
Seller: Jason M. Patla
Date: 08/29/25

 

EAST LONGMEADOW

3 Birch Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $505,000
Buyer: Nazimudeen M. Ifham
Seller: Marco Scibelli
Date: 08/18/25

38 Cara Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $505,000
Buyer: Afolabi N. Adisa
Seller: Maria A. Restrepo
Date: 08/28/25

7 Dewey Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $349,900
Buyer: Eddie A. Pagan
Seller: Chestnut Hill Homes LLC
Date: 08/29/25

130 Elm St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $545,000
Buyer: Peter J. Harrington
Seller: Luke Denver
Date: 08/21/25

20 Ericka Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $975,000
Buyer: Claudia T. Ojeda
Seller: Steven Nguyen
Date: 08/27/25

16 Fairhaven Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $399,900
Buyer: Angela M. Tkacz
Seller: Charles Garwacki
Date: 08/28/25

24 Harwich Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $381,000
Buyer: Sarah Vanells
Seller: 24 Harwich Rd LLC
Date: 08/21/25

146 Millbrook Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Narkon
Seller: Mary L. Schaller-Race
Date: 08/29/25

15 Oak Bluff Circle
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Caitlin C. Normoyle
Seller: Timothy C. Hutchins
Date: 08/22/25

167 Orchard Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $705,000
Buyer: David Fontaine
Seller: Martin F. Schoenemann
Date: 08/18/25

6 Peachtree Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Zachery M. Fountain
Seller: Shawn Gloster
Date: 08/19/25

83 Rogers Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Marco A. Scibelli
Seller: Gioio A. Scibelli
Date: 08/29/25

144 Shaker Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $2,864,770
Buyer: RNL 2025D Owner LLC
Seller: AW Brown Real Estate LLC
Date: 08/28/25

GRANVILLE

280 Silver St.
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Mitchell Goneau
Seller: Jason J. Mihlek
Date: 08/28/25

HAMPDEN

313 Bennett Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Ryan M. Honeycutt
Seller: Kevin J. Czaplicki
Date: 08/22/25

112 East Longmeadow Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Hennessey Williams Property LLC
Seller: Denise Panetta
Date: 08/28/25

145 Glendale Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $797,000
Buyer: Nathan Powers
Seller: Marjorie V. Della Valle
Date: 08/18/25

53 Greenleaf Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $413,200
Buyer: Kevin Windisch
Seller: Victoria Lynch
Date: 08/21/25

25 Pinewood Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $167,000
Buyer: Michael L. Ford
Seller: Linda Reilly
Date: 08/29/25

South Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Milikowski Farms LLC
Seller: William M. Pepin
Date: 08/19/25

HOLLAND

65 East Brimfield Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Derek Painchaud
Seller: Aaron Lieske
Date: 08/29/25

15 Old County Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $479,000
Buyer: Kevin Courtney
Seller: Luke Bardsley
Date: 08/22/25

26 Stony Hill Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $585,000
Buyer: Ralph Falls
Seller: Miguel Villa LT
Date: 08/22/25

HOLYOKE

27 Carol Lane
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Timothy W. Britton
Seller: Paul A. Hoey
Date: 08/28/25

39 Claremont Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $327,500
Buyer: Jules B. Patigian
Seller: Jeanne Brodalski
Date: 08/21/25

32 Edbert Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Julie Arsenault
Seller: Daniel Cimini
Date: 08/28/25

75 Edbert Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jacqueline Mendelson
Seller: Douglas Dean
Date: 08/18/25

217-221 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Highest Holyoke LLC
Seller: New England Farm Workers Council
Date: 08/22/25

223 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Highest Holyoke LLC
Seller: New England Farm Workers Council
Date: 08/22/25

328-330 High St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Metropolitan Property Mgmt. LLC
Seller: Holyoke Property Mgmt. LLC
Date: 08/25/25

957 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jude Prych
Seller: Jude Prych
Date: 08/18/25

957 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Stephanie E. Piedra
Seller: Jude Prych
Date: 08/18/25

36 Lynwood Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Luis Sumba-Morocho
Seller: Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Date: 08/25/25

169 Michigan Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $391,100
Buyer: Alexander Moore
Seller: Timothy L. McGeer
Date: 08/29/25

107 Newton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Principia Holdings LLC
Seller: Alecto RT
Date: 08/21/25

167 Oak St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Jorge A. Nieves
Seller: Angel G. Franco
Date: 08/20/25

24 Old Jarvis Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Jessica Rivera
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 08/26/25

6 Phillips Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $193,000
Buyer: Wilma Rivera-Otero
Seller: Randall J. Curtis
Date: 08/29/25

180 Pine St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Rabina Tandon
Seller: KC Family Properties LLC
Date: 08/20/25

179 Sargeant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Ryan Randall Realty LLC
Seller: Haberman, Alfred I., (Estate)
Date: 08/29/25

1 Stratford Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Johanna Milburn
Seller: Mary B. Agostino-Evans
Date: 08/29/25

120-122 Sycamore St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Kmak LLC
Seller: Asw Fund 1 LP
Date: 08/29/25

12 Temple St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Lrs Irt
Date: 08/29/25

258 Walnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Shanda M. Reynolds
Seller: Jo Landers
Date: 08/21/25

84-86 Westfield Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Tina Spano
Seller: Peter Dorobisz
Date: 08/26/25

LONGMEADOW

76 Brookwood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Gregory Palmer
Seller: Thomas F. Healy
Date: 08/28/25

60 Cheshire Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $805,000
Buyer: Paul R. Hanney
Seller: Bryan Gross
Date: 08/21/25

237 Concord Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Christopher Gabrielli
Seller: Tarun K. Ohri
Date: 08/18/25

70 Ferncroft St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $415,413
Buyer: Matthew Valle
Seller: On The Mark LLC
Date: 08/19/25

161 Field Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: John Haryasz
Seller: Cokkinias, Mary G., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

83 Longfellow Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Deloria
Seller: Anthony P. Aveyard
Date: 08/22/25

104 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $588,500
Buyer: Dong H. Kim
Seller: Michael Tyburski
Date: 08/29/25

1142 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Stephen A. Roulier
Seller: Dominick C. Braiotta
Date: 08/19/25

1656 Longmeadow St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Salih Akozbek
Seller: 1656 Longmeadow Partners
Date: 08/21/25

125 Pleasantview Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Khaled Elkhashab
Seller: Diane J. Gallan 2009 TR
Date: 08/29/25

10 Prynne Ridge Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $765,000
Buyer: James F. Martin
Seller: Christopher N. Russell
Date: 08/28/25

59 Stirling St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $306,000
Buyer: Michael D. Ginsberg
Seller: Elaine B. Ginsberg
Date: 08/29/25

96 Wild Grove Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $695,000
Buyer: Christopher A. Laughton
Seller: Alyce Shapiro RET
Date: 08/22/25

759 Williams St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $588,000
Buyer: Milan Property Group LLC
Seller: Henshaw, Judith Ann, (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

118 Yarmouth St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Pramuditha Rajapakse
Seller: James A. Langone
Date: 08/21/25

LUDLOW

24 Arnold St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Ivan Chernyshov
Seller: Robert J. Lefebvre
Date: 08/29/25

Balsam Hill Road, Lot 64
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,900
Buyer: MDA Future Builders Inc.
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 08/22/25

20 Cady St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Shadane Ndi
Seller: Center For Human Development
Date: 08/19/25

330 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Jack Wojtowicz
Seller: Frank Reyes
Date: 08/22/25

213 Clover Road
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $396,000
Buyer: Barbara Lewko
Seller: Alexander Brady
Date: 08/26/25

1170 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $603,330
Buyer: Robert J. Russo
Seller: Michael Destefano
Date: 08/20/25

263-271 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $645,000
Buyer: Danh N. Dao
Seller: 271 East Street LLC
Date: 08/19/25

Leland Dr., Lot 4
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Michael Lekarczyk
Seller: Bernard F. Leger
Date: 08/19/25

60 Marion Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Jeffry H. Stanton
Seller: Modifi Homes LLC
Date: 08/22/25

233 Munsing St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Raymond A. Yeboah
Seller: Denise M. Pascale
Date: 08/19/25

89 Napoleon Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Karen Gates
Seller: Idalina Dasilva
Date: 08/20/25

75 Southwood Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $740,000
Buyer: 20 Mineral Spring RT
Seller: Janusz Szlosek
Date: 08/27/25

MONSON

197 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $480,000
Buyer: Galina V. Anderson
Seller: Eric J. Phinney
Date: 08/20/25

6 Harrison Ave.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Tyler Jessee
Seller: Pedro Serrazina
Date: 08/22/25

22 Highland Ave.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Andrea Gorman
Seller: Amie L. Heise
Date: 08/22/25

95 Upper Palmer Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Johnny East LLC
Seller: John M. Arooth
Date: 08/26/25

16 Woodridge Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Peter Andrusko
Seller: Nancy F. Needham
Date: 08/25/25

MONTGOMERY

36 Old House Road
Montgomery, MA 01085
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Andrew Shepard
Seller: Marshall Prokop
Date: 08/20/25

PALMER

305 Burlingame Road
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Sarah McPartland
Seller: Arabik Eugene, (Estate)
Date: 08/18/25

24 Charles St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Paralee Smith
Seller: Joseph E. Mastalerz
Date: 08/21/25

46 Charles St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Nichole A. Mileski
Seller: Alan M. O’Connor
Date: 08/27/25

4002 Church St.
Palmer, MA 01079
Amount: $369,000
Buyer: Bernard Rybicki
Seller: Yvonne A. Mbi
Date: 08/18/25

47 Flynt St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Shane A. Richardson
Seller: Kevin J. Dingman
Date: 08/28/25

2278-2280 Main St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Austin Koney
Seller: Steven M. Johnson
Date: 08/18/25

1458 North Main St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $221,000
Buyer: Vakratund Inc.
Seller: Jeegar A. Patel
Date: 08/27/25

1010 Park St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $725,000
Buyer: Laxmi Narayan LLC
Seller: Vpr Capital Partners II LLC
Date: 08/27/25

2011 Pleasant St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $361,000
Buyer: Richard L. Dickinson
Seller: Cynthia J. Dupre
Date: 08/29/25

24 Silvia St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: David A. Battles
Seller: Steven Nieves
Date: 08/28/25

1194 Thorndike St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Carlson Abel
Seller: William Lee
Date: 08/26/25

SPRINGFIELD

100 Abbott St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Hassle Free LLC
Seller: Rosado Jr., Edilberto, (Estate)
Date: 08/20/25

610 Alden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $392,000
Buyer: Soeurette C. Remedor
Seller: Michael A. Orszulak
Date: 08/25/25

67 Alexander St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Olivia M. Strohman
Seller: Raquel G. Buenaventura
Date: 08/19/25

59 Alvin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Juan C. Cornejo
Seller: Shaymis C. Wills-Goldson
Date: 08/28/25

518-520 Armory St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $402,000
Buyer: Franklin Ortega
Seller: Carlytom Veillard
Date: 08/29/25

103 Audubon St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Kimberly L. Chin
Seller: Carlos Camacho
Date: 08/29/25

20 Bangor St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $329,000
Buyer: Jacob R. Clendennen
Seller: Frank Camerota
Date: 08/29/25

139 Bay St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Property Warehouse LLC
Seller: Elda S. Lopez
Date: 08/28/25

36 Benz St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $294,900
Buyer: Ashley D. Hartt
Seller: Maureen R. Phillips
Date: 08/18/25

64 Berkshire Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Ihi Wave LLC
Seller: Real Estate Investors Northeast LLC
Date: 08/27/25

73 Biltmore St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $252,735
Buyer: Nicholas Panidis
Seller: Luisa Romolo
Date: 08/21/25

46 Birchland Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Caleb Mattsson-Boze
Seller: Hugh A. Harline
Date: 08/26/25

523 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Mental Health Assn. Inc.
Seller: Shwee-Tian Chou
Date: 08/26/25

135 Bulat Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Deshia A. Horton
Seller: Ana C. Burgos
Date: 08/28/25

53 Canton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Nohely Salazar
Seller: Izilda A. Barbosa
Date: 08/21/25

762-764 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Felix Bourque
Seller: Erik Rouleau
Date: 08/26/25

1183 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Ana L. Rodriguez-Ortiz
Seller: Bowes, Francine L., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

1715 Carew St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $267,000
Buyer: Conroy Burton
Seller: Guziec Joan A., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

42 Catalina Dr.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Randolph Wills
Seller: James Hillman
Date: 08/29/25

83 Chalmers St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Fonge Njunkeng
Seller: David O. Roman
Date: 08/21/25

141 Cooper St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Barry Smith
Seller: Maria E. Gonzales
Date: 08/26/25

93 Crestmont St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Ryan K. Chaffee
Seller: Jonathan Stone
Date: 08/25/25

82 Davenport St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Izilda A. Barbosa
Seller: Jacob Root
Date: 08/21/25

56 Donbray Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Maxwell C. Anderson
Seller: Laura K. Anderson
Date: 08/22/25

161 Dorset St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Veteran Stan LLC
Seller: Hammerle, Patricia A., (Estate)
Date: 08/19/25

166-172 Eastern Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Rony Almonte
Seller: Zhi J. Lin
Date: 08/29/25

149 Fountain St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Alice M. Ball
Seller: Emtay Inc.
Date: 08/25/25

58 Governor St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Marimer M. Laguer
Seller: Jjj17 LLC
Date: 08/28/25

63 Grandview St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $349,900
Buyer: Aristides Casillas
Seller: Alessandro Malafronte
Date: 08/21/25

22 Greenlawn St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Edward B. Cooley TR
Seller: Amy P. Ashford
Date: 08/21/25

61-63 Hall St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $279,000
Buyer: Kerson Belizaire
Seller: Nghe Van Ho
Date: 08/20/25

100 Haskin St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Ariana Nunez
Seller: Nres LLC
Date: 08/21/25

27 Hickory St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Marco A. Diaz
Seller: Isander Lopez
Date: 08/26/25

24 Joseph St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Hasmukh Gogri
Seller: Kevin J. Key
Date: 08/26/25

101 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $512,000
Buyer: Joshua P. Jean
Seller: Mint Western Mass. Group LLC
Date: 08/20/25

36 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Alemat Realty TIi
Seller: 36 Kensington Avenue LLC
Date: 08/19/25

42 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Alemat Realty TIi
Seller: 42 Kensington Avenue LLC
Date: 08/19/25

747-749 Liberty St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Salerno Pizzeria LLC
Seller: 747 Liberty LLC
Date: 08/25/25

151 Littleton St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Anthony M. Santaniello
Seller: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Date: 08/18/25

139-141 Magnolia Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Jacob Root
Seller: Angel E. Lassalle-Romero
Date: 08/21/25

27 Michael St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $332,000
Buyer: Maria Cruz
Seller: Francisco J. Ramirez
Date: 08/28/25

27 Michigan St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Cournoyer
Seller: Kayla J. Perry
Date: 08/29/25

54 Mohawk Dr.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: David V. Garcia
Seller: Cynthia A. Kennedy
Date: 08/28/25

193-195 Nottingham St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Bria Brantley
Seller: Brooke Coughlin
Date: 08/19/25

18 Olive St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Marangelli C. Morales
Seller: Luis J. Molina
Date: 08/29/25

27 Oregon St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Jason Carmignani
Seller: Holland, Nancy O., (Estate)
Date: 08/29/25

207 Overland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Joseph M. Santaniello
Seller: Griffin, Viola M., (Estate)
Date: 08/22/25

191 Phoenix Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Nulvia E. Morales-Ortiz
Seller: Dreamwake Homes Inc.
Date: 08/29/25

191 Pine Acre Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $312,000
Buyer: William E. Carmody
Seller: William E. Carmody
Date: 08/28/25

54 Revere St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Luis A. Hernandez
Seller: Daniel Mendoza
Date: 08/18/25

44 Rose St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $2,000,000
Buyer: F. P. McNamara Rubbish Removal
Seller: Leotal Inc.
Date: 08/22/25

208 Roy St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: R&R Home Improvement & Remodeling
Seller: Angela R. Greene
Date: 08/28/25

23 Saffron Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Mackenzie C. Table
Seller: Peter Babineau
Date: 08/28/25

1206-1208 Saint James Ave.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Julianny P. Desanchez
Seller: Fab Holdings LLC
Date: 08/25/25

74 Springfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: 74 Springfield St. LLC
Seller: Randy Placzek
Date: 08/18/25

253 Stapleton Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $316,000
Buyer: Maryeila Santiago
Seller: Xtreme Homes LLC
Date: 08/29/25

1592 State St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: 1592 State Powers LLC
Seller: David R. Casey
Date: 08/29/25

51 Stratford Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Sashaya C. Lewis
Seller: Nilda Maldonado
Date: 08/29/25

93 Strong St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: 855 Liberty Sprfield LLC
Seller: Sumares, Charles D., (Estate)
Date: 08/25/25

175 Sunrise Ter.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $399,999
Buyer: Israel Lopez
Seller: Mary A. Hollister
Date: 08/29/25

84 Tallyho Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Christopher Luther
Seller: Otholene Martin
Date: 08/29/25

25 Tioga St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Karen Martindell
Seller: Mark S. Flood
Date: 08/18/25

80 Tulsa St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Andrea J. Ruest
Date: 08/28/25

209 Tyler St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $234,000
Buyer: Laurie Caraid
Seller: Loida Matos
Date: 08/29/25

108 Wellington St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Akili Binia
Seller: James W. Fiore
Date: 08/28/25

138 West Allen Ridge Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $309,000
Buyer: Gianna Salemi
Seller: Jeffrey E. Ball
Date: 08/18/25

118 Woodland Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $359,000
Buyer: Temika Bennett
Seller: Sarah L. Clayton
Date: 08/26/25

158 Wollaston St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Rose-Ann Gaskin-Rice
Seller: Antonio Martinez
Date: 08/22/25

36 Yamaska Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Nelson Ayuso
Seller: Jason A. Williams
Date: 08/28/25

SOUTHWICK

42 Beach Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Donald C. Lorusso
Seller: Kenneth A. Marks
Date: 08/25/25

617 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $770,500
Buyer: Tierney Organization LLC
Seller: Keith F. King
Date: 08/18/25

4 Eagle St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Joel Marks
Seller: Kenneth A. Marks
Date: 08/22/25

33 Granville Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $247,450
Buyer: Jaden M. Fairthorne
Seller: Stellar Homes Inc.
Date: 08/29/25

27 Lakeview St.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Suzanne Shuttleworth
Seller: Timothy J. Bertrand
Date: 08/22/25

9 Lauren Lane
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Melisa A. Smith
Seller: Susanne M. Alberti RET
Date: 08/22/25

147 Mort Vining Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $431,000
Buyer: Joseph A. Longo
Seller: Viktor Moshkovskiy
Date: 08/22/25

4 Pearl Brook Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $461,000
Buyer: Douglas Dichard
Seller: Gary R. Allen
Date: 08/29/25

5 Tall Pines Trail
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $669,000
Buyer: Sean W. Smith
Seller: Mario J. Bernal
Date: 08/20/25

TOLLAND

339 Beetle Road
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $655,000
Buyer: Anna Gindes
Seller: Stanley F. Rosen
Date: 08/27/25

120 Lands End Dr.
Tolland, MA 01034
Amount: $487,500
Buyer: Thomas P. Dancy
Seller: Edward R. Greenbaum
Date: 08/28/25

WALES

8 Sizer Dr.
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $534,900
Buyer: Patricia L. Smith
Seller: Erica T. Enos
Date: 08/26/25

WEST SPRINGFIELD

156 Belmont Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Jacob R. Elkins
Seller: Patricia M. Youngs
Date: 08/26/25

149 Butternut Hollow Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $458,000
Buyer: Kandrap A. Vyas
Seller: Michael K. Kennedy
Date: 08/21/25

182 Central Miami St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $387,500
Buyer: Ghaeth Alsamraay
Seller: Cara M. Canedi
Date: 08/21/25

81 Chestnut St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: M&G Renovations LLC
Seller: Donna M. Clements
Date: 08/29/25

24 City View Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $305,100
Buyer: Daniel J. Skiba
Seller: Dreamwake Homes Inc.
Date: 08/22/25

20 Clara St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Carmen M. Rivera
Seller: Ismael J. Lopez
Date: 08/25/25

61 Clarence St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $217,500
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Alan Bendiksen
Date: 08/19/25

158 Falmouth Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $407,000
Buyer: Sonja M. Funk
Seller: Jonathan Chretien
Date: 08/22/25

104 Forest Glen
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $578,000
Buyer: Douglas Dreyer
Seller: Nathan P. Somers
Date: 08/29/25

53 Greystone Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $550,043
Buyer: B&B Properties LLC
Seller: Jjrob Realty LLC
Date: 08/29/25

31 Highland Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $389,000
Buyer: Michael Forrest
Seller: Cig2 LLC
Date: 08/29/25

57 Hill St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Rosemary M. Hernandez
Seller: TM Properties Inc.
Date: 08/28/25

283 Hillcrest Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Maher A. Lebadeh
Seller: Edwan Alzuhairi
Date: 08/18/25

61 Lotus Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Christopher M. Jett
Seller: Mark C. Delmonte
Date: 08/28/25

125 Maple St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $308,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Wool
Seller: David J. Schwede
Date: 08/22/25

831 Morgan Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Trent Ceiley
Seller: Mpr Properties LLC
Date: 08/28/25

16 North St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Jt Realty Associates Inc.
Seller: Langone, Christine M., (Estate)
Date: 08/20/25

15 Oak St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Viktor Rushchak
Seller: Donna Defant RET
Date: 08/25/25

44 Orchardview St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $351,000
Buyer: Merve Turkman
Seller: Kingsford Aidoo
Date: 08/21/25

32 Paulson Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $352,700
Buyer: Christian Diluzio
Seller: Kathleen Devins
Date: 08/18/25

683 Rogers Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Faith Durmus
Seller: David W. Holt
Date: 08/29/25

32 Sikes Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $607,800
Buyer: Robert A. Niemiec
Seller: Thomas H. Wiggins
Date: 08/20/25

94 Tiara Lane
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $690,000
Buyer: Kruti Patel
Seller: Brian J. Kolodziej
Date: 08/20/25

524 Westfield St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $155,000
Buyer: Centura Bay LLC
Seller: Jessica Cintron
Date: 08/20/25

101 Westwood Dr.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Zachary F. Ciaschini
Seller: West Co. Investments LLC
Date: 08/29/25

53 Wolcott Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Randy C. Guyette
Seller: John Wallace
Date: 08/21/25

16 Worthen St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Luis D. Burgos
Seller: Douglas J. Chevalier
Date: 08/29/25

WESTFIELD

259 Birch Bluffs Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Mary T. Dowling
Seller: Thanh Van T. Densmore
Date: 08/20/25

99 Dartmouth St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Kimberlee Rondoletto
Seller: Yevgeney Pyshnyak
Date: 08/19/25

34 Hawks Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Epro LLC
Seller: Patricia O. Hanrahan
Date: 08/29/25

15 Irene Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $502,900
Buyer: Ronald M. Beattie
Seller: Lindsay R. Smithies
Date: 08/22/25

253 Montgomery Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Devin S. Caugh
Seller: Donna M. Yerkes
Date: 08/22/25

282 Montgomery Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Rita Sanders
Seller: Scott Von Jouanne
Date: 08/28/25

275 Munger Hill Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $729,000
Buyer: Scott T. Flebotte
Seller: Linda J. Delia
Date: 08/20/25

52 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Ihi Wave LLC
Seller: John P. Morizio
Date: 08/29/25

78 Orange St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: George M. Matoke
Seller: Maya Shankar
Date: 08/26/25

87 Pineridge Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $542,500
Buyer: Patrick F. Styckiewicz
Seller: Stephen J. Hinck
Date: 08/21/25

48 Pleasant St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Sandra Atkins-Jason
Date: 08/29/25

11 Rachael Ter.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $715,000
Buyer: Lindsay R. Smithies
Seller: David J. Miller
Date: 08/22/25

152 Shaker Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Jeffery Audet
Seller: Suzanne Verrilli
Date: 08/27/25

20 Southgate Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Geoffrey Fleury
Seller: Parenzo, Dorothy L., (Estate)
Date: 08/21/25

7 Summit Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Sergey Kulyak
Seller: Richard P. Hartman
Date: 08/29/25

30 Western Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Elizabeth G. O’Donoghue
Seller: Ruth Ohayon TR
Date: 08/28/25

21 Winding Ridge Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: Mohammed Saleem
Seller: Robert J. Lefebvre
Date: 08/18/25

WILBRAHAM

10 Cooley Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $674,789
Buyer: Peter J. Ouimette
Seller: Garvey, Arlene F., (Estate)
Date: 08/18/25

7 Deepwood Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $605,000
Buyer: Kevin Relihan
Seller: Moreno FT
Date: 08/20/25

21 Delmor Ave.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Erin E. Goodreau
Seller: Nicole Bateman
Date: 08/28/25

3 Mark Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Wilfredo Perez
Seller: Raymond J. Crooks
Date: 08/29/25

733 Monson Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $739,000
Buyer: Mario Da Cruz
Seller: Victor A. Ayala
Date: 08/25/25

135 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Robert M. Fragapane
Seller: Nicholas J. Collins
Date: 08/28/25

6 South Park Dr.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Kevin J. Kervick
Seller: Kervick, Christine M., (Estate)
Date: 08/18/25

1080 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $343,500
Buyer: Alan Laporte
Seller: Courtney M. Lafreniere
Date: 08/20/25

1 Webster Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $840,000
Buyer: Meredith Flood
Seller: Lynne W. Gentry
Date: 08/21/25

4 Wilson St.
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Deuces Wild RT
Seller: Naples Home Buyers TR
Date: 08/22/25

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

28 Brigham Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $955,000
Buyer: Julie N. Tomlinson-Nolan
Seller: Pauline Stark NT
Date: 08/29/25

19 Hawthorn Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $960,000
Buyer: Moor-Vu RT
Seller: Changhui Pak
Date: 08/20/25

480 Middle St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $645,500
Buyer: Amy J. Mitrani
Seller: Kenneth P. Kleinman
Date: 08/26/25

300 North East St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: North East & Strong LLC
Seller: Heath, Richard A., (Estate)
Date: 08/26/25

505 Sunderland Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $459,000
Buyer: Jared F. Campbell
Seller: An H. Chu
Date: 08/28/25

131 Tracy Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $417,075
Buyer: Dionne Aguilar-Nolan
Seller: Kenneth Reed
Date: 08/29/25

289 Triangle St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $537,000
Buyer: Sage S. Bailin
Seller: Constantine Pleshakov
Date: 08/29/25

BELCHERTOWN

296 Bardwell St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Cynthia Ely
Seller: Tammy Fellion
Date: 08/19/25

158 Barton Ave.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $744,000
Buyer: Samuel Torres
Seller: Robert J. Cote
Date: 08/29/25

107 Howard St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Neil G. Doherty
Seller: Joshua M. Smith
Date: 08/21/25

25 South Main St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Wyatt L. Brown
Seller: Deborah K. Robes
Date: 08/27/25

21 Waterford Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $838,500
Buyer: Yuntian Hu
Seller: Jamal D. Makkiya
Date: 08/29/25

CHESTERFIELD

109 East St.
Chesterfield, MA 01096
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Rebekah Song
Seller: Ronald P. Altimari
Date: 08/29/25

CUMMINGTON

489 West Cummington Road
Cummington, MA 01026
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Kevin A. Williams
Seller: Joel M. Hinton
Date: 08/25/25

EASTHAMPTON

219 East St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Maren Bhagat
Seller: Lauren A. Soucey
Date: 08/28/25

15 Evans Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $381,000
Buyer: Joshua R. Allen
Seller: Bergeron, Barbara A., (Estate)
Date: 08/29/25

261 Hendrick St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $255,024
Buyer: Donald M. Levy
Seller: Martha R. Terry
Date: 08/29/25

263 Hendrick St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $255,024
Buyer: Donald M. Levy
Seller: Martha R. Terry
Date: 08/29/25

Mineral St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $188,700
Buyer: Maryellen Diluzio
Seller: Charles Edward RT
Date: 08/21/25

74 Parsons St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $199,900
Buyer: Jaime D. Loja
Seller: Dawn M. Pepin
Date: 08/19/25

31 Pomeroy St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Anson Weidner
Seller: Sally M. Bastiaans
Date: 08/29/25

16 Sheldon Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Gregory C. Hauer
Seller: Theodore Kuc
Date: 08/18/25

28 Sterling Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $590,500
Buyer: Martin Jutres
Seller: Glen A. Gagnon
Date: 08/26/25

11 Stone Path Lane
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Stone Path Ln LLC
Seller: Barbara A. Yanke
Date: 08/22/25

51 Taft Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Ian Petty
Seller: George J. & E. G. Kwolek IRT
Date: 08/22/25

46-54 Union St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: John Dunphy
Seller: Union West LLC
Date: 08/29/25

33 West St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $571,000
Buyer: Tyler Hess
Seller: Amy E. Thompson
Date: 08/28/25

GOSHEN

81 Lake Dr.
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $449,000
Buyer: Gail Hegeman
Seller: Philip Hurzeler
Date: 08/27/25

49 South Main St.
Goshen, MA 01096
Amount: $415,500
Buyer: Sarah A. Kane
Seller: R. & Joann Sheehan LT
Date: 08/28/25

GRANBY

Carver St., Lot 15
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Dans Construction Service Inc.
Seller: PC Development LLC
Date: 08/29/25

181 East St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Joshua A. Jazab
Seller: Carriveau, Leonard C., (Estate)
Date: 08/29/25

85 South St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Alexandra Zagalskaya
Seller: Wanda C. Blair
Date: 08/29/25

West St., Lot 1
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Oakbrook Homes LLC
Seller: William E. Chapdelaine
Date: 08/20/25

West St., Lot 2
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Oakbrook Homes LLC
Seller: William E. Chapdelaine
Date: 08/20/25

West St., Lot 3
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Oakbrook Homes LLC
Seller: William E. Chapdelaine
Date: 08/20/25

HADLEY

1 Aqua Vitae Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $257,000
Buyer: David N. Bovin
Seller: Sotanasky Sr., Ralph, (Estate)
Date: 08/25/25

269 Bay Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $487,000
Buyer: Donald Dion Rental Properties LLC
Seller: Gregory J. Omasta
Date: 08/21/25

121 East St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Sarah Berquist
Seller: Matthew Pfannenstiel
Date: 08/28/25

148 East St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $599,000
Buyer: Colee A. Curtis
Seller: Isman-Hollister IRT
Date: 08/22/25

424 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $1,900,000
Buyer: Hadley Investment Partners LLC
Seller: Nnn Reit Lp
Date: 08/26/25

455 Russell St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: 455 Russell St LLC
Seller: Och Realty LLC
Date: 08/19/25

HATFIELD

366 West St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: James A. Golonka
Seller: Mandy L. Sweet-Antes
Date: 08/28/25

MIDDLEFIELD

116 Skyline Trail
Middlefield, MA 01243
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Daniel Cimini
Seller: Barbara J. Karp LT
Date: 08/28/25

NORTHAMPTON

12 Day Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Jill M. Bascomb
Seller: RM Blerman LLC
Date: 08/29/25

12 High Meadow Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $865,000
Buyer: Leticia Ward
Seller: John Reed Stifler RET
Date: 08/25/25

35 Hubbard Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Americamp Realty LLC
Seller: Edward J. Oshepa
Date: 08/29/25

68 Ice Pond Dr.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Tiffany E. Kenney
Seller: Rhythm S. Patel
Date: 08/19/25

25 Indian Hill
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $572,000
Buyer: Augusta R. Rulewich
Seller: Marla S. Michel
Date: 08/28/25

12 Lincoln Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Emily T. Merriman
Seller: Karen S. Jones
Date: 08/20/25

Lyman Road, Lot 3
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Andrae Davey
Seller: Wendy L. Arnold
Date: 08/21/25

11 Orchard St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $582,000
Buyer: Gregory H. White
Seller: Jordan T. Burns
Date: 08/28/25

24 Orchard St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,076,200
Buyer: Ann Talarico
Seller: 24-26 Orchard LLC
Date: 08/19/25

275 State St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Lon D. Goodman
Seller: Christopher L. Leclerc
Date: 08/21/25

PELHAM

12 Bray Court
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $617,000
Buyer: Willert P. Klass
Seller: Peter D. Nolan
Date: 08/29/25

SOUTH HADLEY

26 Ashfield Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $525,000
Buyer: Nathan P. Somers
Seller: Timothy D. Herbert
Date: 08/29/25

12 Boynton Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $446,000
Buyer: Heather Zeh
Seller: Daniel M. Vieu
Date: 08/28/25

27 Chestnut Hill Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Robert Loughrey
Seller: Douglas & Sarah Smith RET
Date: 08/19/25

3 Ethan Circle
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Jacqueline Quirk
Seller: Celeste M. Talarico
Date: 08/18/25

64 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Peter Ells
Seller: Virginia Dautreuil
Date: 08/27/25

75 Lamb St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Luciano Alvarez-Sanchez
Seller: Armando Roman
Date: 08/27/25

150 Lyman St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $620,000
Buyer: Jaskiran Saini
Seller: Timothy O. Donnell IRT
Date: 08/27/25

15 Magnolia Ter.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $246,549
Buyer: Csmc 2018-RP36 TR
Seller: Craig A. Hicks
Date: 08/29/25

513 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $416,000
Buyer: James Fay
Seller: David J. Johnson
Date: 08/21/25

40 Wildwood Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $494,900
Buyer: Crystal Conroy
Seller: Tomasi, Mildred A., (Estate)
Date: 08/20/25

32 Woodbridge St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Jessica A. Kotefila
Seller: Ronni A. Gordon
Date: 08/26/25

SOUTHAMPTON

7 Freyer Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Amy Virgilo
Seller: Bds Investments LLC
Date: 08/22/25

WARE

561 Belchertown Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $373,000
Buyer: Meredith Sbordy
Seller: Ahsley T. Chudy
Date: 08/28/25

97 Church St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Judith Magloire
Seller: Jason Patrissi
Date: 08/20/25

40 Coffey Hill Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Amberrose Julien
Seller: Tracey J. Giard
Date: 08/22/25

6 Highland St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Jacob Allard
Seller: Hailee B. Fullen
Date: 08/26/25

46 Horseshoe Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Hrq Global LLC
Date: 08/25/25

97 South St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Marcie A. Savoie
Seller: Andrea Barstis
Date: 08/29/25

WILLIAMSBURG

35 Briar Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Meghan French
Seller: Priscilla J. Williams
Date: 08/29/25

96 Petticoat Hill Road
Williamsburg, MA 01096
Amount: $850,000
Buyer: Aaron Wodin-Schwartz
Seller: Richard A. Barnard TR
Date: 08/21/25

WESTHAMPTON

29 Pine Island Lake
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $950,000
Buyer: David Spound
Seller: Martin R. Cook
Date: 08/28/25

WORTHINGTON

Cummington Road (off)
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $480,230
Buyer: Sofia Dobner-Pereira
Seller: Hilary M. Costa
Date: 08/18/25

444 Huntington Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Timothy J. O’Brien
Seller: Mark A. Spiess
Date: 08/22/25

19 Sawyer Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $480,230
Buyer: Sofia Dobner-Pereira
Seller: Hilary M. Costa
Date: 08/18/25

We Should Be Using AI in HR

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Pam Thornton

 

Time is the most valuable currency in human resources, and it’s slipping away. Too many HR professionals are still hesitant to adopt artificial intelligence (AI), even as it quietly transforms industries all around us. The clock is ticking, and HR leaders who delay are risking falling behind.

AI is not a futuristic concept; it’s already embedded in daily tools you may be using. Microsoft, LinkedIn, Zoom, and Google all have AI-powered features that analyze, summarize, and automate routine work. According to a 2024 SHRM survey, 26% of organizations use AI to support HR-related activities.

What’s at stake? According to a Deloitte-based analysis, HR professionals spend up to 57% of their work time on administrative tasks, which is equivalent to more than 22 hours per week in a standard 40-hour work week. Imagine what could be achieved if those hours were reinvested into strategy, culture, and leadership development.

Here are some of the benefits of AI for HR:

• Time savings. AI-driven recruiting tools can reduce screening time by up to 75% while improving candidate fit.

• Better insights. Predictive analytics allow HR teams to anticipate turnover risks, identify skill gaps, and strengthen workforce planning.

• Improved compliance. AI-powered auditing tools can scan policies and employee records for inconsistencies and legal risks in minutes.

• Enhanced employee experience. Chatbots and virtual assistants now answer common HR and benefits questions 24/7, freeing human resources staff to handle complex employee relations conversations and high-value issues in the organization.

• Upskilling opportunities. AI helps identify internal talent ready for reskilling, closing skills gaps and reducing external hiring costs.

For HR professionals, the ‘wait and see’ approach is costly. Competitors who adopt AI now are gaining efficiency, reducing costs, and positioning HR as a true strategic driver. According to a study from Gartner, the share of HR leaders who are actively planning or already deploying GenAI has jumped from 19% in June 2023 to 61% in January 2025. This sharp rise highlights growing recognition of GenAI’s power to reshape HR processes.

We can’t just ‘lean on’ and set it and forget it when using AI. When we ‘lean in’ and provide input and human oversight to synthesize the information and use our critical thinking skills to leverage AI as a tool, we gain the strategic advantage. Humans will always remain at the heart of HR.

The message is clear: HR’s future isn’t AI versus human, it’s AI plus human. Those who embrace the tools today will lead the transformation tomorrow. So, the real question is: how much longer can you afford to wait?

 

Pam Thornton is director of Strategic HR Services for the Employers Assoc. of the NorthEast. This article first appeared on the EANE blog; eane.org

Incorporations

By
Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

Quality Home Exterior Inc., 9 South Bridge Dr., Agawam, MA 01001. Victor Gavriliuc, 457 Union St., West Springfield, MA 01089. Construction.

CHICOPEE

Bullseye Resilient Solutions Inc., 117 Dejordy Lane, Chicopee, MA 01020. David Boisselle, same. Logistics consulting.

Sewamazing.Shop Inc., 283 Fuller Road, Apt. K, Chicopee, MA 01020. Yuly Valencia Santamaria, same. Influencer who generates online sales.

EASTHAMPTON

Easthampton Coalition for Veterans Wellness Inc., 181 Northampton St., Suite A3, Easthampton, MA 01027. Heather Rudolph, 55 Pomeroy St., Easthampton, MA 01027. Nonprofit organization providing social support and crisis management for veterans.

EAST LONGMEADOW

East Longmeadow Girls Lacrosse Booster Club Inc., 62 Deer Run Ter., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Kimberly Schwartz, 41 Avery St., East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Booster club run by the parents of the students in the girls lacrosse organization at East Longmeadow High School.

FLORENCE

Uya Florence Co., 89 Main St., Florence, MA 01062. Julius Berman, 10 Fairfield Ave., Haydenville, MA 01039. Fast casual eatery specializing in poke bowl, sushi burrito, and bubble tea.

GREENFIELD

Wags Plumbing and Heating Inc., 20 Wildwood Ave., Greenfield, MA 01301. Ryan Grady-Wagner, same. Plumbing and heating services.

HOLYOKE

Rinfire Technology Inc., 50 Holyoke St., Holyoke, MA 01040. Xiaofeng Lin, 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Experience and sales of entertainment electronics.

LONGMEADOW

Mapping Insight Inc., 817 Williams St., #61011, Longmeadow, MA 01106. Grace Kim, same. Consulting services.

NORTHAMPTON

54 Racing Mart Shell Inc., 54 Easthampton Road, Northampton, MA 01060. Sejal Patel, 75 Parsons St., Apt. N, Northampton, MA 01060. Gas station, package and convenience store.

PALMER
Boston Veterans Football Assoc. Inc., 4002 Church St., Palmer, MA 01079. Elvis Mbeng Mbi, same. Soccer club.

PITTSFIELD

The Carpocratian School Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Edith Burke, same. Philosophical and educational institution dedicated to research, scholarship, and public education in the fields of comparative philosophy, theology, and historical studies.

Electronic Data Collection Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Nancy Genung, same. Parking software management.

Green Sheep Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Nicole Doucet, same. Bottled and canned water wholesaler.

Scient Public Relations Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Michael Lampe, 138 Iron Hill Way, Collegeville, PA 19426. Corporate communications.

SOUTHWICK

Lakeview Tavern Inc., 141 Congamond Road, Southwick, MA 01077. Demyan Volkov, same. Restaurant with alcoholic beverages.

SPRINGFIELD

Club Oh Inc., 92 Stuart St., Springfield, MA 01119. Tyrone Ward, same. Provides a holistic approach for minority teens and instills resilience in their communities by supporting them to overcome adversity through mentorship and positive redirection.

TURNERS FALLS

D&F Exteriors and Roofing Corp., 59 L St., Apt. 2, Turners Falls, MA 01376. Durly Bartolon Bartolon, same. Roofing and exteriors services.

WESTFIELD

Evdoha Corp., 13 Ashley St., Apt 1, Westfield, MA 01085. Anatolii Yevdoshenko, same. Transportation services.

Seeyo Nails & Spa Inc., 99 Springfield Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Xiemei Wu, 162 Spratt Ave., Staten Island, NY 10306. Nail spa.

 

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Cornerstone Home Improvement Inc., 119 Humphrey Lane, West Springfield, MA 01089. Vadim Buguta, same. Residential renovation.

Doing Business as Certificates

By
DBA Certificates

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

BELCHERTOWN

Grazescape
62 Dana Hill
Lori Chaffee

Hometown Holdings LLC
102 Oakridge Dr.
Anna Drost

Principle Property Management LLC
102 Oakridge Dr.
Anna Drost

Tang Properties LLC
102 Oakridge Dr.
Anna Drost

EASTHAMPTON

7-Eleven
97 Union St.
Lillian Kirstein

Clovercraft LLC
17 East St.
Kevin Perrier, Volkan Polatol

ETL Services
79 Main St., Apt. 2
Anthony Manganaro

Greene Custom Carpentry
47 Chapin St.
Benjamin Greene

Intro View Mindfulness
4 Pleasant St.
Brian Westerlind

J&P Home Improvement
11 Princeton Ave.
Jonnathan Paredes

Jason’s Plumbing and Heating
215 Hendrick St.
Jason Lisatinski

Jen Pressure Washing
27 Maple St.
Douglas Beyer

The Ounce Club
17 East St.
Kevin Perrier, Volkan Polatol

Purely You Spa
132B Cottage St.
Destini-Rose Sullivan

Sharken Landscaping and Odd Jobs
6 Searle Ave., Apt. 1L
Corey Sharken

Smudge Sorbetto
20 Pleasant Green West
Marc Candilore

Somehow School LLC
83 Main St.
Nora Miller

Valley Kitchens
51 Holyoke St., Unit A1
Dominic O’Connell

Yonder Community Toy Shop LLC
186 Northampton St., Unit E
Danielle Curry

HADLEY

Animal Aura Yoga
367 Russell St.
Animal Aura LLC

The Ben & Ed Show
5 Morning Star Dr.
Edward Roseman

Carol Berzonsky Psychotherapy
4 Kozera Ave.
Carol Berzonsky

Chipotle Mexican Grill
334 Russell St.
Chipotle Mexican Grill of CO

Downward Dog Yoga
367 Russell St.
Donna French

Fetterman & Associates
8 Bayberry Lane
David Fetterman

Flour and Field
333 River Dr.
J2 Living Co. LLC

Smithland Pet Center
335 Russell St.
CT Gardens LLC

Talon Furniture & Mattress
180 Mountain Farms Mall, Suite A
NE Contact LLC

Tap Root Massage Therapy
108A Russell St.
Patrick Arbour

HOLYOKE

Abercrombie & Fitch Stores
50 Holyoke St.
Hollister Co. #30125

Bamboo House
2223 Northampton St.
Xin Zhao, Naling Gao

Bo’s Landscapes
909 Homestead Ave.
Ryan Boman

The Coral Farm
120 Front St., #11
Brian Hale

Holyoke Towers Associates
582 Pleasant St.
Appleton Corp.

Infinity Framing
120 Front St.
James Lauzon

JCPenney Optical #1018
50 Holyoke St.
US Vision

O’Brien’s Auto
40 Anderson Hill Road
Edward O’Brien

RX Epoxy Flooring
76 Westfield Road
Xavier Pagan Reyes

Sweet Baby Rae’s Sourdough
1 Meadow St.
Kristin Fontaine

Visiting Angels
4 Open Square Way
Living Assistance Corp.

Wandering Willow Massage
6 McGrady St.
Alyssa Jakubiec

WESTFIELD

Alfu Cleaning Services
16 Taylor Ave., #25C
Albert Fuster

Angelo’s Tots-A-Lot
558 Granville Road
John Patterson

Be Good Hooman
60 Montgomery St.
Martin Beach

BJJ Advisory Co.
15 Cornish Dr.
SPB Advisory Group LLC

Brooks Books Travel & Beyond
24 Belmont St.
Melissa Brooks

Cold Harbor Coffee Co.
20 Rachael Terrace
Blue Chip LLC

The Handy Housekeeper
147 Main St.
Christine Camp

Hidden Hemlock LLC
109 Apremont Way, #9
Hidden Hemlock LLC

Miracle Cleaning Services
1B East Bartlett St.
Brandy Figueroa

Precise Carpentry LLC
114 Northridge Road
Serghei Marcu

Renew Crew
30 St. Pierres Lane
Jaden St. Pierre, Kaeven Eddington

Renovax
36 Kellogg St.
Oleksandr Verezhak

Septic System Design
43 Kittredge Dr.
David Tompkins

Bankruptcies

By
Bankruptcies

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

Allaire, Kimberly Ann
42 Andersen Road
Chicopee, MA 01022
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/25/2025

Alston-Brown, Keisha Lorraine
a/k/a Brown, Keisha Lorraine
18 Aster St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/25/2025

Balzer, Dixie M.
15 Fredrick Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/23/2025

Belair, Michael L.
Belair, Jeanne A.
112 Morningview Dr.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/30/2025

Bonneville, Tia Anne
a/k/a Hayes, Tia A.
182 Northampton St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/23/2025

Cardona, Aisha M.
49 Varney St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/29/2025

Centeno, Angel L.
439 Oldfield Road
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Daniels, Felissa
136 Marsden St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/21/2025

Doel, Kelli Anne
4 North Main St., Apt. 1A
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/25/2025

Ericson, Deborah Anne
416 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/23/2025

ESG Clean Energy LLC
1111 Elm St., Suite 38
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 11
Date: 07/23/2025

Fassell, Isabel F.
105 Laurel St., Apt. 6B
Lee, MA 01238
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Gadreault, Shane
Gadreault, Jodilynn
28A Revere Circle
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/30/2025

Galipeau, Cynthia N.
93 Wheatland Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/17/2025

Gariepy, Jennifer Lynn
241 Brookside Road
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/21/2025

Guerrero, Julia
Guerrero, Leonel
1765 Memorial Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Gustafson, Bruce George
Gustafson, Heather Anne
141 McBride Road
Wales, MA 01081
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/30/2025

Hall, Keeira
96 Harness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/17/2025

Harris, Melvin L.
146 Brandon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/18/2025

Hartmann, Craig F.
Hartmann, Shannon E.
11 Newton Place
Sturbridge, MA 01566
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/28/2025

Hector, James G.
67 Wentworth St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/30/2025

Irons, Wayne Richard
Irons, Renee Ann
116 Tom Swamp Road
Athol, MA 01331
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/28/2025

Jakuboski, Pamela A.
145 Pontoosic Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Kelleher, Robert F.
Kelleher, AnnaMaria
a/k/a Stellato, Anna M.
277 Orange St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/24/2025

Labarre, Joshua Patrick
97 Laurel Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/22/20

Laboy, Maria Pinto
17 Angelo St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Livewell Home Improvement, LLC
33 Laurel Mountain Road
Haydenville, MA 01039
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/25/2025

Malo, Jayson L.
Malo, Stephanie L.
a/k/a Elie, Stephanie l.
60 Mechanic St.
Gilbertville, MA 01031
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/21/2025

Marrett, David T.
Marrett, Sandy J.
495 Granby Road
South Hadley, MA 01075
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/22/2025

Masslanka USA, LLC
Raufdeen, Riswan M.
23 Tracy Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/28/2025

Mendoza, Hector
Mendoza, Mary I.
91 Oakwood Ter.
Springfield, MA 01109
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/24/2025

Ortiz Felix, Ramona
65 Broadway St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/24/2025

Packard, Brandi L.
328 Columbus Ave.
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/17/2025

Paul, Michelle J.
41 Davidston St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/28/2025

Perez, Edward W.
266 Woodcrest Dr.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/18/2025

Przekopowski, Kyle William
41 Pynchon Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/21/2025

Rex, Daniel B.
8 Cleveland Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/29/2025

Rizos, Antonios
a/k/a Rizos, Tony
2 Geryk Court
Southampton, MA 01073
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/23/2025

Shartrand, David J.
Shartrand, Melissa A.
28 Chantilly Ave.
North Adams, MA 01247
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Suya, Felix
303 Maple St., #320
Springfield, MA 01105
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/18/2025

Thomas, Chad Dewayne
Thomas, Cathleen Ann
a/k/a Thomas, Cathy Ann
51 Wales Road
Monson, MA 01057
Date: 07/30/2025

Valcour, Kaylee N.
105 Sadler Ave., Apt 1
Pittsfield, MA 01201
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/31/2025

Weeks, Jeremy Jason
40 Woods Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Chapter: 7
Date: 07/22/2025

Wood, David B.
Archer, Pamela J.
31 Cleveland St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 13
Date: 07/31/2025

This Could Be the Start of Something

By
Opinion

Editorial

 

Back in 2009, the first year BusinessWest staged its Difference Makers recognition program, the group of honorees included a relatively new nonprofit devoted to inspiring entrepreneurship and giving startups and early-stage companies a leg up as they sought to develop concepts and bring them to the market.

It was called Valley Venture Mentors, and its mission was relatively simple … give entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs exposure to mentors within the business community and provide programming to accelerate startup initiatives and get them off the ground. And the need was real, because new businesses weren’t coming to the region in large numbers, existing businesses were being merged into other entities at an increasingly alarming rate, and, because of these forces, new sources of jobs would be needed for the decades to come.

VVM, as it was called, was still in its infancy then, but it was already generating momentum and some positive results, enough to earn it the designation Difference Maker.

A dozen or so years later, VVM all but vanished from the landscape. We’re not sure what happened, but it was probably a combination of the pandemic, which robbed it of momentum and the ability to stage in-person meetings, changes in leadership, and other factors that led to dormancy — and a sizable hole in the region’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Recognizing the importance of filling this hole, a group led by Paul Silva, one of the early leaders of VVM and an entrepreneur himself who has created several ventures aimed at fostering startups, has launched Innovate413, or what they have nicknamed VVM 2.0 (see related story, page 4).

Silva joked that he was ‘getting the band back together,’ a reference to some of the mentors involved with the original VVM who will be participating with this version as well. But Innovate413 will go a step or two further.

Indeed, fueled by $250,000 in seed money from the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation and the MassMutual Foundation, the new nonprofit will seek to link entrepreneurs with mentors, but also catalysts in the form of access to potential customers (employers with problems that need solving) and access to the latest artificial intelligence and product-development technology from groups such as the Center for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (CDS) at the Manning College of Information and Computer Sciences at UMass Amherst.

The broad goal, said Silva, is to provide teach-based startups with what he called “an unfair advantage,” meaning direct access to businesses looking for solutions. This will enable entrepreneurs to problem-solve and develop technology for which there is a recognized need, rather than developing a product or service and hope that a market for it will develop.

It sounds good on paper. Whether Innovate413 will succeed with this mission remains to be seen, but we are encouraged that the band is coming back together and that there is a concerted effort to fill this hole in the entrepreneurship ecosystem.

That’s because the need that was apparent back in 2009, is still painfully evident. The region is not attracting large employers, the pace of mergers and acquisitions is only accelerating, and, while there is a strong wave of entrepreneurship sweeping the region, there remains a need for new tech-based companies that will stay in the 413 and potentially become large sources of jobs.

We hope VVM 2.0 can generate some momentum on this front and become a Difference Maker in its own right.

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the months of August and September 2025.

EASTHAMPTON

Porvenir LLC
100-106 Cottage St.
$22,000 — Add two rooms to existing space for cosmetic procedures, add electrical outlets, install two sinks

St. Philip’s Episcopal Church
126 Main St.
$15,345 — Attic weatherstripping and insulation, add bath fan to gable/roof

HADLEY

W/S Hadley Properties II LLC
337 Russell St.
N/A — Repair/replace existing signage

LEE

Don Hunter
10 Park Place
$10,000 — Install 12 vinyl windows

LENOX

CACLB Properties
22 Walker St.
$60,000 — Convert existing space from residential back to manufacturing/industrial

PITTSFIELD

A. Leo Nash Realty LLC
99 Hawthorne Ave.
$115,650 — Tuckpoint large section of brick wall

Berkshire Fund Inc.
48 Elizabeth St.
$17,450 — Repair doors

Berkshire Medical Center Inc.
725 North St.
$89,000 — Interior alterations to reconfigure existing ultrasound room to X-ray room

Commonwealth of Massachusetts
44 Bank Row
$9,000 — Kiosk, coffee shop

The Cooper Center LLC
116 North St.
$17,961 — Repair damaged awning

Dan Fox Drive Pittsfield LLC
1 Dan Fox Dr.
$391,586 — Roofing

Premium Water Inc.
1505 West Housatonic St.
$43,319 — Quality control lab renovation, including, removal of existing finishes; installation of new walls, flooring, ceilings, and door; and modification and reinstallation of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sprinkler, and HVAC systems

ServiceNet Inc.
717 Crane Ave.
$48,875 — Underground pipe to feed new sprinkler system

WESTFIELD

Beaver Lake Realty LLC
47 Westfield Industrial Park Road
$52,500 — Construct break room in existing warehouse space

Columbia Manufacturing
21 Cycle St.
$120,000 — Furniture showroom

Devcon Shops LLC
457 East Main St.
$6,560 — Remove partition walls

Double Play Properties LLC
225 East Main St.
N/A — Fire alarm system

Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield
35 Bartlett St.
N/A — Replace existing interior and exterior doors, install new partitions and doors

Santander Bank
30 Elm St.
N/A — Change of use from bank to antique mall

Zap Realty LLC
181 Notre Dame St.
$77,000 — Remodel existing office space

MCLA Maintains Top 10 Public Liberal Arts College Ranking for 11th Straight Year

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) has maintained its position as the sixth-ranked public liberal arts school in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings, marking 11 consecutive years in the top 10.

“Eleven years of top ten recognition is a testament to our faculty, staff, and the entire MCLA community’s dedication to student success,” President James Birge said. “This consistency in rankings reflects our core mission: providing an affordable, transformative liberal arts education that empowers students from all backgrounds to achieve their goals and make meaningful contributions to society.”

More than 41% of MCLA undergraduate students receive Pell Grants, and 49% are the first in their families to attend college. Overall, 95% of MCLA students receive some form of financial aid.

“MCLA’s sustained excellence in the rankings reflects its unwavering commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education,” said Buffy Lord, chair of the MCLA board of trustees. “While some institutions may steeply discount their programs to attract students, MCLA uses an affordability model rather than a financial leveraging approach. The result is that MCLA graduates have the lowest student loan debt of any four-year public institution in Massachusetts, and 22% of graduates have no student loan debt at all.”

The college’s focus on individual attention and experiential learning continues to set it apart. Classes are taught by dedicated educators who prioritize teaching excellence and student development, creating an environment where every student can thrive academically and personally.

“At MCLA, we strike a balance between our strong identity rooted in practical education and our forward-looking approach,” Birge continued. “We understand the demanding expectations of today’s students, and we are committed to meeting their needs. This is why we have introduced new programs, such as nursing, radiologic technology, global studies, environmental studies, and music, industry, and production.”

Another one of the ways MCLA supports student success beyond the classroom is through its Essential Needs Center (ENC), which addresses the hardships outside of academics that can become obstacles to student achievement and overall well-being. This welcoming space offers food, essential items, housing and transportation assistance, seasonal clothes, SNAP applications, and much more. Importantly, the ENC is run by students who best understand these out-of-class challenges and are ready to help and support their peers.

“Our additional student support staff enables us to quickly and efficiently customize academic success plans, allowing students to focus on their classes without being sidelined by other stressors,” Birge noted. “At MCLA, students don’t just have a plan for their continued growth and success; they have the name of an MCLA mentor who is there from start to finish.”

U.S. News ranks colleges based on indicators including financial strength, faculty expertise, and educational outcomes.

“These rankings provide further validation that MCLA remains true to its 130-year commitment to public education and effectively prepares students for success in an increasingly complex world,” Lord concluded. “The liberal arts model is just as valuable now as it ever was, and we’re pleased to see our continued strengths highlighted in this way.”