Roxana Toledo

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Roxana Toledo
Healthcare News

She Never Let Go of Her Nursing Dream

Roxana Toledo

Roxana Toledo

Roxana Toledo says she always wanted to be a nurse.

But when she became a mother at 19, she knew she had to put that dream on hold for a while.

She probably wasn’t thinking that a while would turn out to be 20 years, but that became the reality. Over those two decades, she raised a family, found a career in healthcare — including the past several years as an emergency room tech at Mercy Medical Center — and, most importantly, she never, ever let go of the nursing dream.

Indeed, she enrolled in the nursing program at Elms College in Chicopee and graduated in May. She is still in Mercy’s ER, but now as a nurse, a job with different responsibilities — and somewhat different rewards.

And one that … well, was worth that 20-year wait.

“I love it … it’s what I always wanted to do,” Toledo said, referring not only to the role of a nurse, but the ER setting itself. “I like helping people; this work gives you a sense that you’re doing something good.”

As for that setting, it is one that she has always found intriguing, one with many different kinds of challenges and opportunities to provide both care and comfort.

“You see different things every day, you learn new things every day, and that’s what I like about it,” she said. “I could be a pedi nurse one day and an OB nurse another day; it’s all different kinds of nursing in one place.”

Toledo joked that she wasn’t the oldest nursing graduate in the Elms College class of 2024. In fact, a few were her senior.

“We try to take away that sense of panic so that they can hear what we’re saying.”

Those stats help show that nursing is a field that some are finding later in life, after trying some other professions. Or after finding some inspiration from somewhere or someone or some experience. Or after life, as it usually does, has offered up some challenges and obstacles.

In most cases, the aspiration, the dream, to be a nurse was always there. But pursuit of that dream couldn’t happen until the time was right.

So it was with Toledo, who told BusinessWest that the rigors, and expense, of nursing school were not something she could take on while raising three young children.

But she was always passionate about healthcare and serving others, and has worked in the field since she was 19, mostly as a medical assistant, including lengthy stints at clinics within the Baystate Health umbrella.

“I had all three of my kids by the time I was 24, and I wanted to focus on them first,” she told BusinessWest. “And then, I decided that, when I got older, I would realize my goal, which was to be a nurse, and go back to school.”

Roxana Toledo says the team at the Mercy Emergency Department is like a family.

Roxana Toledo says the team at the Mercy Emergency Department is like a family.

Nursing school was certainly a balancing act involving her studies, her night-shift work at Mercy, and being there for children, who were now in high school and college.

“There was a lot of running around, to be sure,” she recalled. “My youngest played volleyball, and my oldest was in college.”

Toledo persevered and started as a grad nurse in the Mercy ER in January, continuing her training since then and taking on a new role and new responsibilities in a setting she knows well.

As she talked about it, she said the ER is like most settings in healthcare — where teamwork is critical and members of the team have each others’ backs. But it is somewhat unique in that every day really is different, and those providing care to patients and their families are caring for them in a setting that can be intimidating — even, to use her word, “scary.”

“We try to take away that sense of panic so that they can hear what we’re saying,” she explained, referring to both patients and their families, who are coping with perhaps the worst day of their lives, or at least one of them.

As for the families of patients, they are certainly a critical part of the equation, she added.

“You’re there to care for their loved ones and provide them with that sense of safety,” she explained. “You’re there to help them also, not just the patient; you’re there to help them understand what’s going on with their loved one and give them that sense that we’re doing everything we can.”

Speaking of family, that’s a word Toledo used in a different context — to describe the large team that works there, how they work together, and, most importantly, how they support one another to provide high-quality care.

“In the ER, we’re kind of like a family — we’re always helping each other out,” she explained. “Without each other, it doesn’t work. I’ve been there for a long time, so they know me, and they always have my back. And it’s very helpful, as a new nurse, for them to have my back.

“I can ask them anything — I feel comfortable going to anyone,” she went on, “because they’re like family.”

The Markens Group’s Emily Leonczyk Achieves Significant Credential

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Daily News

Emily Leonczyk

SPRINGFIELD — The Markens Group Inc. (TMG) and ASAE, the Center for Association Leadership, announced that Emily Leonczyk recently earned the certified association executive (CAE) designation, the highest professional credential in the association industry. Leonczyk serves as executive vice president of the Markens Group, an accredited association management company based in Springfield.

Association management companies (AMCs) focus on managing and supporting the operations of trade and professional organizations. TMG’s wide range of personalized solutions, including membership management, board governance and relations, financial management, marketing, strategy, meeting planning, and more, are designed to optimize the performance of its association clients. By bringing best practices and innovative solutions to multiple membership-based organizations concurrently, TMG infuses the latest in technology and member-engagement strategies across its clients, allowing association leaders and volunteers to focus on their core mission and strategic goals.

The CAE designation earned by Leonczyk significantly bolsters TMG’s operational effectiveness. This prestigious credential leads to better service for association clients and stronger outcomes, such as increased membership, improved member engagement, and successful events, paving the way for TMG and its clients to achieve their strategic goals.

To become a designated CAE, Leonczyk leveraged her extensive experience with association management, completed 100 hours of specialized professional development, passed a stringent examination in association management, and pledged to uphold a code of ethics. CAEs conduct ongoing professional development and activities in association and nonprofit management to maintain certification. More than 4,500 association professionals hold the CAE credential, a program accredited by the National Commission of Certifying Agencies.

Since joining the Markens Group five years ago, Leonczyk has been a driving force behind the company’s growth. Her enthusiasm and energy encourages the TMG team to show up as their best selves, motivating them to identify and focus on their highest-impact work. She has a knack for developing talent and empowering teammates to nurture and grow their unique gifts. She embodies TMG’s fundamental values through her commitment to collaboration, dedication to improvement, and support of each TMG team member, allowing them to learn, grow, and stretch their abilities.

The CAE designation represents her commitment to leading by example in continuous learning, inspiring her TMG teammates to develop strong leadership skills to guide the company and its clients toward success.

Leonczyk holds an MBA from Drexel University. She attributes her drive, resilience, and dedication to serving others to her family, including her determined and entrepreneurial parents and brothers.

“We are incredibly proud of Emily for earning the certified association executive credential. Emily’s dedication, vision, and leadership have been key to TMG’s growth and success,” said Ben Markens, president and founder of the Markens Group. “Her CAE achievement reflects her ongoing commitment to excellence in association management. We are excited to see how she will continue to inspire and lead our team.”

Bacon Wilson, P.C. Welcomes Four Law Clerks for 2024-25 Season

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Bacon Wilson, P.C. announced that Alba Ago, Benjamin Keogh, Gary DeYoung, and Sarah Zaino have been accepted into its law-clerk program for the 2024-25 school year.

Bacon Wilson created the clerkship program more than 40 years ago to allow law-school students to gain experience and mentoring in the legal profession. The clerks are an integral part of the firm and participate in various firm events during their time at Bacon Wilson.

Alba Ago

Ago is currently a candidate for a juris doctor degree at Western New England University School of Law, expecting to graduate in May 2025. She earned her bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, in three years from Montclair State University in 2022, majoring in political science with double minors in social work and global security diplomacy. Before joining Bacon Wilson, Ago completed a family-law defense practicum through Western New England and worked as a family law legal assistant for the current Superior Court judge in New Jersey. She has a keen interest in family law, is an active member of the Family Law Assoc. at Western New England, and serves as president and co-founder of the Middle Eastern Law Assoc. Originally from Albania, she is fluent in Albanian. She is looking forward to exploring various other practice areas during her time at Bacon Wilson.

Benjamin Keogh

Keogh is currently a candidate for both a juris doctor degree and an MBA at Western New England University, with both degrees expected in May 2025. He earned his bachelor’s degree, cum laude, from Western New England University in 2022, majoring in criminal justice and minoring in accounting. Before joining Bacon Wilson, Keogh worked as a private investigator, handling a variety of cases in Vermont, Connecticut, and Central and Western Mass. He also worked for the U.S. Census Bureau in Northern Vermont. With a strong interest in transactional law, he is eager to explore the diverse legal practice areas that Bacon Wilson offers.

Gary DeYoung

DeYoung is currently a candidate for a juris doctor degree at Suffolk University Law School, expecting to graduate in May 2025. He holds a doctor of philosophy degree in applied human development and a master of arts degree from Boston University, and he earned his bachelor of arts degree, cum laude, from UMass Amherst. Before joining Bacon Wilson, DeYoung gained experience as a judicial intern for the U.S. District Court in Springfield and served as chair of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund Board in Chelsea. He is keen to further develop his expertise in land use, municipal law, and real estate, and looks forward to the opportunities ahead at Bacon Wilson.

Sarah Zaino

Zaino is currently a candidate for a juris doctor degree at Western New England University School of Law, expecting to graduate in May 2025. She earned her bachelor of science degree, cum laude, from Marist College in 2022, where she also obtained her paralegal certificate. Before joining Bacon Wilson, Zaino worked as a temporary assistant clerk for the Connecticut Supreme Appellate Courts and interned with Corbally, Gartland, and Rappleyea in Millbrook, N.Y. She founded the Italian American Law Society during her second year of law school and was also a part of the real-estate practicum this past spring. She has interests in transactional law, estate planning, and corporate law, and is eager to gain practical experience in the legal field during her clerkship at Bacon Wilson.

“We are delighted to welcome these four outstanding law students, who will carry on Bacon Wilson’s proud tradition of excellence among our law clerks,” Managing Shareholder Jeffrey Fialky said. “We are fortunate to have the region’s top talent contribute to our work, ultimately benefiting our clients.”

Edwards Church Invests $500,000 in Way Finders’ Development Capital Fund

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Edwards Church of Northampton has made a $500,000 investment in Way Finders’ Development Capital Fund via a low-interest loan that will provide pre-development funding for affordable-housing projects the agency manages throughout Western Mass.

In 2019, the Edwards Church congregation was surveyed on their preferences for church support in the community. Results indicated that members had a strong interest in supporting affordable housing as an alternative investment of the church’s invested funds.

Its investment committee subsequently sought out an affordable-housing development partner in which to invest and learned that Springfield-based Way Finders, an affordable-housing organization dedicated to bringing home stability to people across Western Mass. since 1972, manages its own Development Capital Fund, which is open to outside investors.

“The most important way to address the affordable housing crisis is by building more homes, which we can do with adequate funding,” said Keith Fairey, Way Finders president and CEO. “Our pre-development fund is vital because it covers the large expenses tied to all the work needed before we put a shovel in the dirt. This includes architect fees, site preparation, permitting, and due diligence.”

Way Finders puts money into the fund, as do outside investors, including churches. Edwards Church is now one of those investors. The $500,000 is a loan to Way Finders, not a grant or gift. The funds earn an annual, below-market interest rate; the funds can be repaid to the church in six years if the church so chooses.

“Parts of the Edwards Church vision statement proclaim, ‘knowing that the road is long, we choose to walk together,’ and ‘encountering the world’s joys and suffering, we offer ourselves as instruments of love and justice,’” said Michael McSherry, senior minister. “The church’s investment in Way Finders is an expression of our commitment to walk with our neighbors who face housing insecurity and taking concrete steps to help build solutions.”

Way Finders has more than seven active affordable-housing projects currently under development in towns including Amherst, South Hadley, Ludlow, Springfield, Great Barrington, and Agawam. The agency built and currently manages Live 155 on Pleasant Street in Northampton and also manages five other affordable-housing properties in Northampton, plus many more throughout Western Mass.

Connecticut Insurance Agency Joins Smith Brothers Insurance

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Daily News

NORTHAMPTON — Monroe Insurance Center Inc., an independent insurance and risk-management agency located in Monroe, Conn., has merged its operations with Smith Brothers Insurance, which has an office in Northampton, as well as offices across Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, and New York.

The leadership team at Monroe Insurance Center, including John Rodrigues, Anna Rodrigues, Peter Lozier, Gary Freeman, Alan Helfer, and Paul Ackert, will continue to serve clients and, along with their team, join Smith Brothers Insurance. They will maintain their office in Monroe while leveraging the resources of Smith Brothers.

“The Monroe Insurance Center brings a history of serving the insurance needs of families and businesses,” said Joe Smith, president and CEO of Smith Brothers Insurance. “This merger will allow their clients to gain access to additional carriers, coverages, and risk-management services. We look forward to working together to serve our clients and give back to the communities where we live and work.”

Added Rodrigues, “as I have come to know members of the Smith Brothers team, it is clear we share the same values and commitment to quality service. Our clients will benefit from an expanded portfolio of products and a broader network of insurance professionals dedicated to their success. We are excited to join the Smith Brothers team.”

Picture This

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Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11
Picture This

Email ‘Picture This’ photos with a caption and contact information to [email protected]

 

Open for Business

Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11 with a ribbon cutting and reception welcoming local business and government leaders, clients, and friends, including Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Diana Szynal, president of the Springfield Regional Chamber. The new space is on the ninth floor of Tower Square at 1500 Main St. downtown. Pullman & Comley opened its original Springfield office, the firm’s first in Massachusetts, in 2019. It has Connecticut offices in Bridgeport, Hartford, and Westport, as well as in White Plains, N.Y. and Wakefield, R.I.

Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11

Pullman & Comley, one of the largest full-service law firms based in Connecticut, celebrated the opening of its new Springfield office on June 11

 

 

Community Day

On June 14, Whittlesey, one of New England’s largest regional CPA and consulting firms, continued its annual day of volunteerism with various projects across Connecticut and Western Mass. For more than a decade, Whittlesey team members have stepped away from their desks to engage in activities that directly impact the communities where they live and work. This year, Whittlesey mobilized team members throughout the region to collaborate with the Bushnell Park Conservancy, the Diaper Bank of Connecticut, and the Zoo in Forest Park (pictured). Volunteers engaged in a variety of activities, including park cleanup efforts, mulching, planting flower beds, and repairing and painting fences.

This year, Whittlesey mobilized team members throughout the region to collaborate with projects like the Zoo in Forest Park.

This year, Whittlesey mobilized team members throughout the region to collaborate with projects like the Zoo in Forest Park.

 

 

Food for Thought

bankESB recently announced a commitment of $20,000 to Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture’s (CISA) Growing Resilience Campaign, an effort focused on building a stronger, more resilient local food system in Western Mass. This campaign is in line with bankESB’s commitment to supporting the communities it serves through its charitable-giving program, the Giving Tree.

Food for Thought

Pictured: CISA Development Director Wendy Ferris (center) flanked by, from left, bankESB’s George Michelakis, Amherst branch officer; Lauren Tabin, assistant vice president and Northampton branch officer; Olivia Falcone, social media specialist; and Gary Turku, senior vice president, Retail Banking.

Agenda

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Agenda

Healthcare Heroes Nominations

Through July 29: In the spring of 2017, BusinessWest and its sister publication, the Healthcare News, created a new and exciting recognition program called Healthcare Heroes. It was launched with the theory that there are heroes working across this region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare sector, and that there was no shortage of fascinating stories to tell and individuals and groups to honor. That theory has certainly been validated. But there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of heroes whose stories we still need to tell. And that’s where you come in. Nominations for the class of 2024 are due Monday, July 29, and we encourage you to get involved and help recognize someone you consider to be a hero in the community we call Western Mass. in one (or more) of these eight categories: Care Provider, Administrator, Emerging Leader, Community Health, Educator, Innovation, Collaboration, and Lifetime Achievement. Nominations can be submitted at businesswest.com/healthcareheroes/nominations.

 

Art Exhibit Submissions

Through Aug. 31: The Taber Art Gallery at Holyoke Community College (HCC), in partnership with the college’s Thrive Student Resource Center, is seeking submissions from area artists for an exhibit titled “THRIVE: Beyond Surviving.” The exhibit will run from Oct. 31 to Dec. 20. Artists are encouraged to enter work that considers the systemic, communal, and/or individual obstacles and barriers to survival; what surviving means; how we as humans can continue to dream, push, and hope for more than the minimum; and the struggle of exhaustion versus the ability to rest. Submissions are due by Aug. 31.

 

Big Brothers Big Sisters Point 5K Fundraiser

July 18: The Franklin County Fairgrounds, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Western Massachusetts (BBBSWM) will host its annual Point 5K fundraiser from 4 to 8 p.m. with a rodeo-themed twist. Participants will enjoy a 546-yard dining experience featuring food and drinks from local businesses, including Buckland Pizza, the Food Booth, Ciesluk Farmstand, and the Brewery at Four Star Farms. Local artist DJ Lazer Chicken will bring his musical talents to the event, which is sponsored by Greenfield Savings Bank. For tickets and more information, visit bigbrotherssisters.org or the organization’s Facebook page.

 

Whip City Animal Sanctuary Annual Golf Tournament

July 27: Whip City Animal Sanctuary will host its fourth annual golf tournament at St. Anne Country Club in Feeding Hills. “This is our biggest fundraising event of the year, and we’re working toward expanding our facilities in the near future. We’re looking for players and sponsors of all levels to come join the fun and support the sanctuary this year,” said Sonia Henderson, head of off-site fundraising for the sanctuary. Whip City Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that provides long-term care for more than 100 abandoned, rescued, and surrendered farm animals. The sanctuary is open for public visiting hours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

 

Party for a Purpose

Sept. 19: With the goal of making sure Square One’s children have a new, state-of-the-art, outdoor learning and playspace, Friends on a Mission will host its annual Party for a Purpose to raise funds for the playground project at Square One’s Tommie Johnson Child & Family Center in Springfield. Now in its second year, Friends on a Mission started with a trio of friends — Bob Perry, Walter Tomala, and the late Jenn Schimmel — who set out to spend time together while giving back to the community. Their inaugural event held last fall raised more than $38,000 for Make-A-Wish of Massachusetts and Rhode Island. With early sponsorship support from PeoplesBank and Meyers Brothers Kalicka, P.C., this year’s Party for a Purpose, featuring cocktails, food, and festivities, will be held at 5:30 p.m. at the Delaney House in Holyoke. Interested sponsors should contact Perry at (413) 530-3787. For tickets, visit www.startatsquareone.org.

People on the Move

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People on the Move
Hans Jung

Hans Jung

KeyBank announced that Hans Jung has joined the bank as senior relationship manager within its Connecticut and Western Mass. middle-market Commercial Banking team. In this role, he will work with companies with annual revenues from $10 million to $2 billion, offering a range of corporate finance solutions, treasury management, and liquidity solutions tailored to meet their unique business needs. In addition, Jung will work with private-equity sponsors to support their investment strategies with acquisition financing. With extensive experience advising clients and providing comprehensive financial solutions, including M&A transactions, he will support the growth and success of KeyBank’s middle-market clients and report to Matthew Hummel, market president and Commercial Banking executive. Jung brings an extensive background in corporate finance, transaction banking, trade finance, capital markets, and liquidity management, cultivated from previous underwriting, portfolio-management, and relationship-management roles with Santander Bank and Webster Bank, among others. He is committed to community involvement, actively volunteering with organizations such as the Metro Hartford Alliance, LISC, and the United Way. He also served as chairman of the Audit Commission for the city of Hartford, a board member of the Connecticut China Council, and a program committee member for ACG-CT. He is a CFA charter holder with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance from Boston College.

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Nicole Blais

Nicole Blais

Nicole Blais, CEO of Holyoke, Chicopee, Springfield (HCS) Head Start Inc., was recently re-elected to the Massachusetts Head Start Assoc. (MHSA) board of directors and will also serve as treasurer. MHSA serves as the voice of nearly 30 Head Start and Early Head Start programs across Massachusetts. The not-for-profit membership organization provides collaborative learning opportunities, leverages partnerships, and advocates for Head Start programs. Blais has spent most of her entire career with Head Start. Beginning in 1996 as the Parent Education and Support specialist for HCS Head Start, she was responsible for ensuring that Head Start performance standards and other regulations related to parent involvement were upheld at all times. For a decade, she developed and implemented various parent and family engagement programming — such as Parenting in the 21st Century, Men Involved in the Lives of Kids, Family Fun Nights — and other parent-driven activities; supervised a team; and began making a name for herself speaking and presenting throughout the Commonwealth as well as at National Head Start Assoc. conferences across the country. In 2012, Blais transitioned to the position of director of Community Engagement, where she spent almost another 10 years supporting the work of HCS Head Start. In this role, she identified, maintained, and grew collaborations with outside agencies and community initiatives, local media outlets, political and community leaders, and funders. The next phase of her career came when her mentor, Janis Santos, HCS Head Start’s longtime CEO, announced her retirement. In 2021, amid the pandemic, Blais began her role as CEO of the organization. Blais serves the community in other ways, including roles as a Springfield Regional Chamber ambassador and Holyoke Rotary Club member. She attended the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and did her graduate studies in nonprofit management & philanthropy at Bay Path University.

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New England Public Media (NEPM) recently announced four awards won by journalists with the organization. At the recent Health Journalism Conference hosted by the Assoc. of Health Care Journalists (AHCJ) in New York City, NEPM reporter Karen Brown earned second place in the Public Health category for her three-part series, “Safe Bet: Is Mass. Fulfilling Its Problem-gambling Mandate?” Brown is also the host and producer of NEPM’s new podcast, “The Secrets we Keep.” In addition to AHCJ’s recognition, the NEPM newsroom received accolades from the Public Media Journalists Assoc. (PMJA). The PMJA awards recognize the best in public-media journalism produced in one year from across the country. Stations competed against others with similar-sized newsrooms; NEPM competed in Division A, representing stations with 8 to 15 full-time staff. NEPM reporters Dusty Christensen and Nirvani Williams both won PMJA awards. Christensen’s investigative piece, “Records Obtained Under New Mass. Law Show Holyoke Police Dismiss Nearly All Civilian Complaints,” secured second place in the Digital Writing category, while Williams’ feature, “New Law Takes Effect, but Still Not Easy for Undocumented Immigrants to Get Mass. Driver’s Licenses,” earned first place in the Government and Democracy Feature category. Reporter Nancy Eve Cohen’s outstanding work on clergy sexual abuse was recognized by the Radio Television Digital News Assoc. (RTDNA) with a regional Edward R. Murrow Award in the Hard News category. Her story, “‘I Don’t Know Who Is Stopping This’: Advocates Urge Mass. AG to Issue Report on Clergy Sexual Abuse,” on the apparent delay in an attorney general report on what had occurred at the Springfield, Worcester, and Fall River dioceses, was honored. Cohen followed her award-winning work with “‘Another Level of Coverup’: How a Mass. Law Prevents Clergy Abuse Survivors From Getting Justice” and “Western Mass. Actor Depicts Clergy Abuse Survivor Who Rejects Church Settlement — Like He Did.” The regional Murrow Award winners are chosen from all stories in a designated region, in this case Region 10, which includes Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Cohen will now advance to the national RTDNA Murrow Awards competition, winners of which will be announced in August.

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Tessa Lucey

Tessa Lucey

Tessa Lucey has been appointed to the Westfield State University board of trustees. She replaces trustee and former Chairman Robert Martin, whose 10-year term ended March 1. He remained in holdover status by the governor’s office until Lucey’s appointment on May 6. Lucey has more than 20 years of experience as a compliance officer, including extensive professional experience in healthcare and higher-education compliance, operations, labor relations, policy development, program implementation, investigations, government reviews, and audits. She is currently director of Compliance Services and chief privacy officer at the University of Vermont in Burlington. Prior to this position, she was corporate Compliance officer and chief privacy officer at Hallmark Health System in Medford. Prior to her position at Hallmark Health, she was director of Compliance and chief privacy officer at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth. In addition to her bachelor’s degree in business with minors both psychology and women’s studies from Westfield State University, Lucey earned a master of healthcare administration degree from Simmons College.

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MountainOne announced the promotion of several employees in the North Adams office to new positions, acknowledging their hard work, dedication, and impactful contributions to the company. Betsy Kapner has been promoted to vice president, Marketing manager. She joined MountainOne in 2013 and has deep knowledge and expertise in marketing compliance requirements. She demonstrates an ongoing commitment to professional development and excels at meeting deadlines, collaborating effectively with colleagues, and contributing meaningfully to every project. Jessica Andrews has been promoted to assistant vice president, Deposit Compliance & Fraud Administration officer. Since joining in 2005, she has developed a deep understanding of the deposit compliance environment and helps leads the administration of the bank’s fraud-reporting platform. Her involvement in compliance projects demonstrates her leadership and commitment to MountainOne’s core commitment of regulatory accountability. Lisa Mineau has been promoted to assistant vice president, senior Human Resources Operations officer. Over her 43-year career, she has adapted to change and taken on increasingly significant responsibilities. She started as a teller at North Adams Hoosac Savings Bank and then as a customer-service representative in community banking before finding her passion in human resources in 2002. Her recently enhanced role includes oversight of payroll, benefits, and personnel administration.

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George Michelakis

George Michelakis

bankESB recently hired George Michelakis as branch officer of its 253 Triangle St. office in Amherst. Michelakis has 15 years of banking experience. He was previously a financial center manager at Berkshire Bank and, before that, a branch operations administrator at People’s United Bank. He brings an extensive background of retail banking leadership experience to his new role, where he will manage the Amherst office team while remaining engaged in the community. Michelakis has an associate degree in marketing management from Holyoke Community College and is an avid volunteer with many different organizations in Western Mass.

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Momentum: Montessori, a Life in Motion by Elizabeth Slade of Florence has been named one of the best indie books of 2024 by the Independent Book Publishing Professionals Group. Slade’s book won the historical nonfiction category in the 2024 Next Generation Indie Book Awards, the largest awards program for independent publishers and self-published authors. Published by Atmosphere Press, Momentum is a historical fiction novel based on Maria Montessori’s life. The story, inspired by her 1913 diary, is a fictional retelling of her first voyage to America. Written from Maria’s perspective to her son, Mario, the novel explores her groundbreaking achievements and personal sacrifices that would later revolutionize education around the world. For more information about Slade and Momentum: Montessori, a Life in Motion, visit egslade.com.

 

Company Notebook

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Company Notebook

White Lion Expands Beer-garden Footprint

SPRINGFIELD — White Lion Brewing Co. obtained local licensing approval to operate a series of beer gardens in three Western Mass. cities: Holyoke, Westfield, and Springfield. As a local brewer, White Lion collaborates with community stakeholders and engages a broad audience that embrace and support outdoor programming. In Springfield, to stimulate small-business awareness, White Lion will rotate through downtown and set up near key points of business. The two primary locations are One Financial Plaza, 1350 Main St., which is home to a small-business incubator made up of several startup businesses. White Lion will be downtown every Wednesday through Aug. 28. The beer garden opens at 4 p.m. The second location is the Plaza at 1550 Main St., the home of the Springfield School Department and other government offices. Holyoke’s Armour Yard is located at the Cubit, 164 Race St. Centrally located, the site offers live music, food, and craft vendors. White Lion partnerships include the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce and Holyoke Craft Beer. White Lion can be found every Monday at the Cubit through Aug. 26th. The beer garden opens at 5 p.m. For several years, 53 Elm St. in Westfield was home to live music, food vendors, and a White Lion pop-up. White Lion, in partnership with ArtWorks Westfield, helped sponsor the weekly music events. This summer, White Lion will be on site very Friday through Aug. 30. The beer garden opens at 5 p.m.

 

HCC Awarded $832K to Boost Clean-energy Workforce

HOLYOKE — Holyoke Community College (HCC) has been awarded an $832,000 grant to help train workers for jobs in the clean-energy sector. The two-year grant, announced earlier this month, was part of an overall $3.4 million allocation from the Healey-Driscoll administration to three higher-education institutions for climate-related workforce-training initiatives. HCC was the only institution in Western Mass. to receive funding. Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology and Roxbury Community College, both in Boston, also received grant awards of $1.3 million each. Overall, the grants will lead to green-industry-specific training for an estimated 400 individuals, 150 of them through HCC. The college and its community and industry partners will spend the next few months developing training programs in five areas: EV (electric vehicle) charging station installation; energy auditing, solar installation, green industry supervision and management, and green careers job readiness. HCC’s partners in the grant include Holyoke Gas & Electric, Springfield Works, and the Coalition for Equitable Economy (CEE), an organization that supports businesses owned by people of color. Holyoke Community College is a federally recognized Hispanic-Serving Institution, which was one of the eligibility requirements for the grant. Training is expected to begin in early 2025, if not sooner.

 

Garvey Law, LLC Opens West Springfield Office

WEST SPRINGFIELD — On June 20, attorney Katherine Garvey, founder of Garvey Law, LLC, celebrated the grand opening of the firm’s office at 1312 Memorial Ave., West Springfield. Garvey Law, LLC, an all-female law firm specializing in Massachusetts and Connecticut real estate, estate planning, and probate law, recently celebrated its fourth year in business.

 

Graduate Engineering Programs at UMass Amherst Earn High Marks

AMHERST — UMass Amherst graduate engineering programs place among the best in the country in the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings for 2024, announced last week. UMass Amherst is the only public university in New England to place in the top 50, and most of its College of Engineering doctoral degree programs also made significant gains over last year’s rankings. Overall, the College of Engineering moved up seven spots from last year to reach the top 25%, tying with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Florida in the 48th spot. Nine engineering specialty areas that offer doctoral degrees rank between 35 and 69 for 2024. Notably, four engineering specialties — chemical, industrial, computer, and materials — place in the top 40. Chemical engineering ranks 35th, followed by industrial at 36th; computer at 38th, up six spots from 2023; and materials at 40th, which climbed significantly from its ranking in the 57th spot last year. Environmental engineering ranks 41st, civil 48th, and electrical 53rd. Other specialty areas that also place higher this year include mechanical at 56th, up five spots, and biomedical at 69th, which improves 10 spots from 2023. U.S. News compares schools on their research activity, faculty resources, academic achievements of entering students, and assessments by other engineering schools and employers.

 

MountainOne Supports Berkshire Community Action Council

NORTH ADAMS — MountainOne announced recently donated $10,000 to the Berkshire Community Action Council (BCAC) as part of its 2024 Community Dividend Program. The BCAC is a nonprofit human-service organization that assists low-income residents of Berkshire County toward achieving sustainability and self-sufficiency. Working with the community to find creative and maintainable solutions that promote economic stability and alleviate the destabilizing effects of poverty for those in Berkshire County, the BCAC has had “self-sufficiency and dignity for all” as its vision since incorporating in 1966. MountainOne’s donation is earmarked specifically for the BCAC’s Warm Winter Clothing Program, , which provides children age 12 and under with new coats, boots, hats, mittens, and gloves. While the cold-weather season is still months away, MountainOne is providing these funds now because preparations for the program span all four seasons. Families are provided with the opportunity to shop for items at the Children’s Winter Boutique at BCAC, allowing them the opportunity to chose items that best suit their children’s taste, style, and comfort. The Community Dividend Program at MountainOne supports nonprofits throughout the Berkshires and South Shore, particularly organizations that positively impact community members most in need. In addition to corporate sponsorship, BCAC offers the ability to for community members and groups to sponsor a child during the winter. For further details on the Warm Winter Clothing Program, visit bcacinc.org/winter-clothing-program.

 

Baystate Health Awards $500,000 in Better Together Grants

SPRINGFIELD — Baystate Health, in partnership with the Community Benefits Program, announced the recipients of the 2024 Better Together Grants. This year, proposals considered focused on advancing youth well-being through strategic interventions that seek to decrease adverse youth mental-health outcomes. Projects funded by Better Together must apply a framework of social determinants of health, be evidence-based, include routine performance evaluation, and align with Baystate’s community health needs assessment. The grantees are Community Legal Aid ($100,000 for its Family Preservation Project); Follow My Steps Foundation ($100,000 for its Steps to Empowerment Program); Latino Counseling Center ($100,000 for its Mindful Connections/Conexiones Conscientes); Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services ($100,000 for its Beat the Odds Project); and Springfield Pride Parade Organization ($100,000 for its Safe Space Program). Funding for the Better Together grants is made possible through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s determination-of-need requirements. In addition to funding the grantees, Baystate Health has also contracted with the Public Health Institute of Western Massachusetts to provide technical assistance and evaluation support to the grantee cohort over the next one to two years.

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.

AMHERST

Powell Family Home Improvement Inc., 149 Pomeroy Lane, Amherst, MA 01002. Michael Powell, same. Home improvement.

CHICOPEE

Connors Home Improvements Inc., 16 Sampson St., Chicopee, MA 01020. Greg Connors, same. Roofing services.

New Age Limit Records Worldwide Inc., 22 Artisan St., Apt. 3L, Chicopee, MA 01013. Wleh Dennis Rogers-Stanley Sr., same. Independent record label, and multimedia company specializing in producing music, distributing music, artist development, radio and podcast sports, modeling, acting, and security.

NORTHAMPTON

Makefixhack Inc., 4 Franklin Court, Northampton, MA 01060. William Cameron, 2 Pleasant St., Apt. 2, Easthampton, MA 01027. Nonprofit organization established to foster the practices of craft, creativity, repair, reuse, and exploration of technology through individual and collaborative projects, community building, tool and resource access, education, and mentorship.

PITTSFIELD

Lawelawe Defense Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. David Thompson, same. Research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences.

R&D Solutions International Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Dominique Taylor, same. Life-sciences management consulting firm specializing in providing expert guidance to international clients seeking to navigate the intricate regulatory landscape of the U.S.

Siga Cover Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Etienne Gubler, same. Wholesale of specialty building materials.

Trady Home Services Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite100, Pittsfield, MA 01201.

SOUTH DEERFIELD

Blue Crow Botanicals Inc., 265 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield, MA 01373. Anne Wagner, 2 Hyde Hill Road, Williamsburg, MA 01096. Growing and manufacturing herbal extracts.

Josh’s Detailing Service Shop Inc., 60 North Main St., South Deerfield, MA 01373. Josh Candelaria, 14 Lunt Dr., Greenfield, MA 01301. Auto-detailing shop.

SPRINGFIELD

Frederick H. Stebbins House Preservation Management Inc., 1030 Worthington St., Springfield, MA 01109. Elisha Colgram, 304 Bay St., Springfield, MA 01109. Nonprofit organization established to preserve the historic Frederick H. Stebbins House in Springfield so that its qualities are available as an educational and cultural resource for Springfield residents and visitors to the city.

Home Harbor Foundation Inc., 20 Rosella St., Springfield, MA 01118. Tatsiana Volks, same. Nonprofit foundation serving the community by providing essential shelter and housing solutions tailored to meet the needs of low-income and/or elderly individuals facing health challenges that necessitate residing with a caregiver or special living accommodations.

VDM Consulting Group Inc., 24 Itendale St., Springfield, MA 01108. Manuel Mantilla II, same. Consulting firm dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions and strategic guidance to businesses across various industries.

WARE

Elite Coverage Group Inc., 118 West St., Ware, MA 01082. William Peralta, same. Health-insurance agency.

Papas’ Inc., 75 East St., Ware, MA 01082. Muhammad Ashraf, 109 Parker Lane, Ludlow, MA 01056. Diner.

WESTFIELD

7 Tokyo Inc., 282 Southampton Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Kwang Soon Kim, same. Skin-care sap service.

AP Building & Remodeling Inc., 47 George St., Westfield, MA 01085. Alexander Pikulski, same. Construction.

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

BERNARDSTON

754 Battleboro Road
Bernardston, MA 01337
Amount: $714,924
Buyer: Connelly Farm RT
Seller: Camilla M. Hodger
Date: 05/28/24

DEERFIELD

300 Conway Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $557,000
Buyer: Brian Colleran
Seller: Adam Czachorowski
Date: 06/07/24

46 Eastern Ave.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $437,239
Buyer: Ryan C. Kingston
Seller: Dorothy M. Milewski
Date: 05/30/24

35 King Philip Ave.
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $574,900
Buyer: Bryant J. Crubaugh
Seller: John T. McConnell
Date: 06/07/24

7 Memorial St.
Deerfield, MA 01342
Amount: $1,990,000
Buyer: 7 Memorial St. TR
Seller: Fieled Point Circle TR
Date: 05/29/24

108 North Hillside Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $675,000
Buyer: Jason M. Levy
Seller: Kirsten Oxboel
Date: 06/04/24

121 Sandgully Road
Deerfield, MA 01373
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Brown
Seller: Felix Rodriguez
Date: 06/05/24

ERVING

17 Moore St.
Erving, MA 01344
Amount: $371,000
Buyer: Julie M. Smith
Seller: Milles Falls Realty LLC
Date: 05/31/24

GREENFIELD

119 Cleveland St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Jonathan Bassett
Seller: Robert A. Poirier
Date: 05/29/24

161 High St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Peter Luthi Real Estate Trusts
Seller: Peter B. Chandler
Date: 05/30/24

17 Raingley Road
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $368,500
Buyer: Jeremy Bouchard
Seller: Lisa A. Kimball
Date: 05/31/24

147-149 School St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Deebee RT
Seller: Stephen R. Poulin
Date: 06/04/24

306-308 Wells St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Eds Enterprises LLC
Seller: Property Advantage Inc.
Date: 05/30/24

200 Wisdom Way
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Jennifer Blythe
Seller: Mark Wightman
Date: 05/31/24

MONTAGUE

1 Australia Way
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $1,000,000
Buyer: Great Falls Holdings LLC
Seller: Australis Aquaculture Holdings
Date: 05/29/24

32 Center St.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $772,000
Buyer: Harry S. Rockland-Miller TR
Seller: Laura A. Deluca
Date: 05/31/24

21 Franklin St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Andre Morris
Seller: Patrick S. Pezzati
Date: 06/03/24

34 K St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Arpc LLC
Seller: Walter E. Hosmer
Date: 05/29/24

114 Montague St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Diana Sainz-Close
Seller: Eds Enterprises LLC
Date: 05/30/24

306 Montague City Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: William Schulze
Seller: Jacob S. Dlugosz
Date: 06/04/24

58 Prospect St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Olivia Cifrino
Seller: Katherine E. Blair
Date: 06/07/24

53 Turners Falls Road
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Sequoia R. Lebreux
Seller: Douglas Dedischew
Date: 06/03/24

ORANGE

35 Oaklawn Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $237,500
Buyer: Jonathan Rawls
Seller: Secretary Of Veterans Affairs
Date: 05/31/24

SHUTESBURY

52 Shore Dr.
Shutesbury, MA 01072
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Clare Storck
Seller: Brenda Wood-Ewing
Date: 05/29/24

SUNDERLAND

South Silver Lane
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Kitchen Garden Farm LLC
Seller: Timothy N. Wilcox
Date: 05/31/24

131 South Silver Lane
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Kitchen Garden Farm LLC
Seller: Timothy N. Wilcox
Date: 05/31/24

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

48 Anthony St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Aaron Rocheleau
Seller: Robert W. Drane
Date: 06/07/24

131 Alfred Circle
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Rcf2 Acquisition TR
Seller: Kimberly A. Leask
Date: 05/28/24

41 Federal Ave.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Tyler Howe
Seller: Clark Dore
Date: 05/31/24

137 Florida Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Igor Varenyev
Seller: Colin M. Deforge
Date: 05/30/24

158 Florida Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Mikalai Shmatok
Seller: Douglas Dichard
Date: 06/05/24

85 Fox Farm Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Matthew Balsamo
Seller: Stokowsk, Marianne R., (Estate)
Date: 06/03/24

31 Letendre Ave.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Jash B. Baniya
Seller: Jason E. Merriam
Date: 05/30/24

1215 Main St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $301,000
Buyer: Timothy L. Gibson
Seller: Davis FT
Date: 06/07/24

6 Maple Meadows Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Tarek Firzli
Seller: Peter J. Ferri
Date: 05/31/24

837 North Westfield St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Kozhenevsky Properties LLC
Seller: Heather Hammond
Date: 05/31/24

207 Poplar St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Steven Garrett
Seller: Jane R. Beresford
Date: 06/03/24

55 River Road
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Emanuel Correa
Seller: Maks Realty LLC
Date: 06/05/24

108-110 Sheri Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Muhammad Razzaq
Seller: Sinh La
Date: 05/31/24

15 South West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Kelsey Granaudo
Seller: Ellen Moriarty
Date: 06/05/24

484 South West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $231,000
Buyer: A-O-K-RT
Seller: Roger W. Burleson
Date: 06/06/24

576 Southwick St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $349,900
Buyer: Paul Barkyoumb
Seller: Joseph T. Moccio
Date: 05/31/24

33 Woodside Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Austen J. Gilman
Seller: Stacee A. Cole
Date: 05/28/24

BRIMFIELD

Haynes Hill Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Commonwealth Of Mass.
Seller: Margery J. Wilburn
Date: 05/29/24

289 Palmer Road
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Mark Sagendorph
Seller: Emerald Reo LLC
Date: 05/31/24

CHESTER

Bromley Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Beecher Hill NT
Seller: Hull Forestlands LP
Date: 05/29/24

East St.
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Beecher Hill NT
Seller: Hull Forestlands LP
Date: 05/29/24

Kyle Road
Chester, MA 01011
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Beecher Hill NT
Seller: Hull Forestlands LP
Date: 05/29/24

CHICOPEE

93 Beauregard Ter.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Brendan Lalumiere
Seller: Christine J. King
Date: 05/31/24

571 Britton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Leeann Rose
Seller: Endo Realty LLC
Date: 06/03/24

66 Dwight St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $1,150,000
Buyer: Mindruns Properties LLC
Seller: Blackrock BNG Group LLC
Date: 05/31/24

50 Hilton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Israel Lopez
Seller: Gilles A. Rheaume
Date: 06/05/24

80 Hilton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Zachary Gordon
Seller: Justin Doyle
Date: 06/07/24

427 Irene St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: David G. Wilson
Seller: Shaddock Sr., Charles T., (Estate)
Date: 06/06/24

23 Ludger Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $271,000
Buyer: Joshua Mills
Seller: Provost, Jeannette S., (Estate)
Date: 06/04/24

126 Ludlow Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Mehmet Karaca
Seller: JTT Realty LLC
Date: 05/31/24

128 Marion St. Ext
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $273,800
Buyer: Maria A. Rosario
Seller: Partyka Partners LP
Date: 06/05/24

20 Newell St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $283,500
Buyer: John J. Flynn
Seller: 20 Newelll St. RT
Date: 05/28/24

266 Old Lyman Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Sara Windyka
Seller: DGL Properties LLC
Date: 05/29/24

7 Oxford St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Breann Grenier
Seller: Gregory A. Bernash
Date: 06/04/24

32 Rita St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Khando Kyi
Seller: Patricia A. Samson
Date: 06/07/24

89-95 School St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $1,150,000
Buyer: Mindruns Properties LLC
Seller: Blackrock Bng Group LLC
Date: 05/31/24

2189 Westover Road
Chicopee, MA 01022
Amount: $12,400,000
Buyer: Area Chicwh LLC
Seller: Stag Industrial Holdings LLC
Date: 06/05/24

16 Willette St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Jazzminlee E. Rosado
Seller: Gilberto T. Rodriguez
Date: 06/07/24

50 Woodstock St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Robert T. Doyle
Seller: Skiba, Edward F., (Estate)
Date: 06/03/24

EAST LONGMEADOW

26 Cedar Hill Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Michael J. Wilkins
Seller: Nicholas J. Shea
Date: 06/04/24

42 East Circle Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Trinh Nguyen
Seller: Connie Stulgis
Date: 05/31/24

Farmer Circle, Lot 17
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Dominick Pellegrino
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 05/30/24

Farmer Circle, Lot 15
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Priscilla Y. Choi
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 05/30/24

Farmer Circle, Lot 18
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Rosanny Amaro
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 05/30/24

Happy Acres Lane, Lot 11
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: John A. Grimaldi
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 05/30/24

Happy Acres Lane, Lot 9
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Michael Carabetta
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 06/07/24

Happy Acres Lane, Lot 6
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $199,000
Buyer: Keith Johnson
Seller: Happy Acres LLC
Date: 05/30/24

3 James St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: W2 Properties LLC
Seller: Smith Realty & Investments Co.
Date: 05/29/24

125 Lasalle St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $540,000
Buyer: Mukeshbhai Patel
Seller: Michael Carabetta
Date: 05/29/24

194 Mapleshade Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Armando A. Cardozo
Seller: Avens LLC
Date: 06/07/24

109 Nottingham Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $720,000
Buyer: Cassandra Gisolfi
Seller: Donald J. Coughlin
Date: 05/31/24

471 Porter Road
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Jonathan M. Mugford
Seller: Dnepro Properties LLC
Date: 06/04/24

211 Tanglewood Dr.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $670,000
Buyer: Nicholas J. Shea
Seller: Thomas P. Byrne
Date: 05/28/24

31 Yorkshire Place
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $550,000
Buyer: Michael Scavotto
Seller: Giovanni F. Gisolfi
Date: 05/31/24

HAMPDEN

15 Commercial Dr.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Hennessey Williams Properties LLC
Seller: Fbs Inc.
Date: 06/03/24

405 Main St.
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Lynne Franciose
Seller: Peter H. Lehndorff
Date: 05/30/24

HOLLAND

17 Candlewood Dr.
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Brooke Roberts
Seller: Roy St. Andre
Date: 06/06/24

3 Roberts Park Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Bennett Wightman
Seller: Walter Estates LLC
Date: 05/30/24

14 Union Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Timothy J. Skavis
Seller: Antonia S. Young
Date: 05/30/24

HOLYOKE

355 Chestnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $317,000
Buyer: John Avolin
Seller: Shamika Santos
Date: 06/07/24

48 Clemente St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $226,000
Buyer: Franchesca Ruiz
Seller: Anthony H-Santiago
Date: 05/29/24

4 Columbia St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Juan C. Nunez
Seller: Luis Rosado-Cardona
Date: 05/30/24

85 Dupuis Road
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $351,000
Buyer: Charles R. Moeller
Seller: Robert A. Griffin
Date: 06/05/24

1412 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $178,500
Buyer: Alycar LLC
Seller: Jahjan LLC
Date: 06/03/24

1 Fairfield Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $124,500
Buyer: Appleton Grove LLC
Seller: Joan E. Erwin
Date: 05/30/24

11 Gordon Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Benjamin H. Normandin
Seller: Steven J. Rogers
Date: 05/31/24

166 Michigan Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Ivan R. Belvis-Navarro
Seller: O’Shea, Lillian, (Estate)
Date: 06/06/24

7-9 Myrtle Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Gabriel Quaglia
Seller: Ellen Correa
Date: 05/31/24

3-5 Russell Ter.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Mario X. Colon-Escalante
Seller: John M. Gaughan
Date: 06/03/24

17 Steven Dr.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jennifer T. Walsh
Seller: Joseph W. Dubois Sr. Irt
Date: 05/30/24

21-23 View St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Jose L. Rivera
Seller: Anastacio Laureano
Date: 06/07/24

LONGMEADOW

25 Andover Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Raymond L. Mitchell
Seller: 11 Pineridge Drive RT
Date: 05/30/24

40 Barbara Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $560,000
Buyer: Chiwai Chow
Seller: Megan Oksendahl
Date: 06/07/24

87 Barclay St.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $449,000
Buyer: Leslie Bennett
Seller: Scott J. Gomes-Ganhao
Date: 05/31/24

126 Berwick Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Matthew M. Paige
Seller: 126 Berwick Road RT
Date: 05/31/24

33 Forest Glen Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $805,000
Buyer: Laura Deluca
Seller: Douglas L. Soder
Date: 05/30/24

29 Hopkins Place
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Christopher Stohlmeyer
Seller: John D. Stankiewicz
Date: 06/07/24

100 Jonquil Lane
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $740,000
Buyer: John E. Dowd
Seller: Brian T. Foley
Date: 06/07/24

295 Pinewood Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $885,000
Buyer: Beverly Moore
Seller: Kihan Francis Lee 2020 TR
Date: 06/07/24

102 Primrose Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Carol M. Samble
Seller: James P. Blain
Date: 05/31/24

34 Roseland Ter.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Todd Young
Seller: John E. Dowd
Date: 06/07/24

137 Sheffield Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $205,000
Buyer: Mass. Cardinal Group LLC
Seller: Tatyana S. Jacobs
Date: 06/05/24

203 Wolf Swamp Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Michael Scibelli
Seller: Patricia B. Ahearn
Date: 06/05/24

LUDLOW

626 Alden St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: William E. Silvia
Seller: Albert G. Chenaille
Date: 06/07/24

88 Barna St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Mhi Properties LLC
Seller: Z. & M. Investments LLC
Date: 06/03/24

11 Daisy Lane
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Manuel & G. Coelho Ft
Seller: Barry, Beverely A., (Estate)
Date: 05/30/24

565-567 East St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $362,000
Buyer: Kyung C. Hyun
Seller: Clayton S. Booth
Date: 05/28/24

87 Hubbard St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Tiago A. Boacas-Martins
Seller: Augusto Ferreira
Date: 05/29/24

141 Kirkland Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $393,500
Buyer: Louis F. Gatti
Seller: Paula R. Purdy
Date: 06/07/24

60 McLean Pkwy.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $435,000
Buyer: Joanne E. Holtje
Seller: Joanne Bobrek
Date: 05/31/24

23 New Crest St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Sharif Bilodeau
Seller: Donegan, Monica J., (Estate)
Date: 05/31/24

1 Parkview St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Jrchr LLC
Seller: Jaciow, Richard J., (Estate)
Date: 06/03/24

88 Pondview Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $287,000
Buyer: Emiliana Palmer
Seller: Judy A. Cowles
Date: 05/31/24

26 Ray St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Dale Varney
Seller: Christopher J. Lemek RET
Date: 06/05/24

13 Salli Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $387,500
Buyer: John E. Gomes
Seller: Christopher H. Newman
Date: 06/04/24

103 Shawinigan Dr.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Alden Pond Properties LLC
Seller: Amelia B. Charron FT
Date: 05/31/24

Turning Leaf Road, Lot 82
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $164,900
Buyer: Brandon McCarthy
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 05/29/24

377 Woodland Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $556,500
Buyer: T. Frimpong-Leclair
Seller: Monika M. Konopko
Date: 05/29/24

MONSON

7 Beebe Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Daniel M. Nale
Seller: Harrison, Edward S., (Estate)
Date: 06/03/24

21 Bradway Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Sarah M. Mosiashvili
Seller: Matthew R. Currier
Date: 06/06/24

9 Brimfield Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Shamus P. King
Seller: Osgood, Geoffrey Hay, (Estate)
Date: 06/05/24

14 Macomber Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $578,000
Buyer: Nicolas Bates
Seller: Barry S. Drinkwine
Date: 06/06/24

57 Stafford Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $141,150
Buyer: Pah Properties LLC
Seller: Yvette Rioux
Date: 06/04/24

147 Wales Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $999,999
Buyer: Travis Neidlinger Stables
Seller: Deanna Veinotte
Date: 05/30/24

PALMER

10 Fieldstone Dr.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Andrew Palmer
Seller: Sharon Langlitz
Date: 05/31/24

22 Harvey St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $304,000
Buyer: Julia C. Emond-Maturo
Seller: Mark D. Bachand
Date: 06/05/24

99 Longview St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Shaw Development Inc.
Seller: Jonathan E. Neumann
Date: 06/06/24

RUSSELL

434 Blandford Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: Saje Home Services LLC
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 05/31/24

114 Dickinson Hill Road
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Cody Payson
Seller: Deanna Ridgway
Date: 05/28/24

70 Ridgewood Dr.
Russell, MA 01071
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Jestyna P. Peatman
Seller: Louis E. Garlo
Date: 05/31/24

SPRINGFIELD

60-62 Algonquin St.
Springfield, MA 01013
Amount: $380,000
Buyer: Jason D. Brown
Seller: Rehab Home Buyers LLC
Date: 05/30/24

Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $2,100,000
Buyer: Ng Land Holdings LLC
Seller: Stop & Shop Supermarket
Date: 05/30/24

174 Allen St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $286,000
Buyer: Ejike Okeke
Seller: F. K. De Nunez
Date: 06/03/24

61-63 Ames St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Liana Khaydarova
Seller: Plata O. Plomo Inc
Date: 06/07/24

85 Barber St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Ashley C. Philpott
Seller: Omar Loaiza
Date: 06/07/24

40 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Benny Flores
Seller: H&P Investments LLC
Date: 06/07/24

858 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $288,000
Buyer: B9 Industries Inc.
Seller: Nicholas G. Axton
Date: 06/05/24

23 Belvidere St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Jared Borja
Seller: Samuel Peront
Date: 06/05/24

42 Berkeley St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Berkeley-Monmouth RT
Date: 06/07/24

85 Braddock St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $139,000
Buyer: Malia Homebuyers LLC
Seller: Nadine Pallazola
Date: 06/07/24

14-16 Brightwood Ave.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $423,000
Buyer: Maria J. Chimborazo
Seller: Maria Escalera
Date: 06/07/24

44 Bruce St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Exon A. Redondo Bueso
Seller: Sareen Properties LLC
Date: 05/29/24

169 Centre St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Round Two LLC
Seller: Carlos Porfirio
Date: 06/04/24

69 Chapin Ter.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $221,351
Buyer: Federal National Mortgage Assn.
Seller: Marietta O. Flaherty
Date: 06/04/24

570-572 Chicopee St.
Springfield, MA 01013
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: Vita Filippone
Seller: Degaulle N. Litoma
Date: 05/31/24

36 Cleveland St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Anthony Porter
Seller: Jamal Porter
Date: 06/05/24

116 Colorado St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $291,500
Buyer: Jannette Brown
Seller: Daniel A. Burke
Date: 05/31/24

732 Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Ddmns Realty LLC
Seller: Steven E. Mrowzinski
Date: 05/31/24

42 Daytona St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $175,098
Buyer: Yeslin Gonzalez
Seller: DLJ Mortgage Capital Inc.
Date: 05/28/24

23 Dartmouth St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Theodore Jewell
Seller: Jewell, Fannie B., (Estate)
Date: 06/07/24

150 Dayton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $361,000
Buyer: Heather Noonan
Seller: Richard A. Sibilia
Date: 06/05/24

34 Dorchester St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $383,000
Buyer: Andrew C. Marshall
Seller: Yamilet Boston
Date: 06/03/24

120-122 East Alvord St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $304,000
Buyer: Francheska M. Santos
Seller: Anthony D. Decesare
Date: 06/07/24

1 Eagle St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Napolitano Roofing Of Mass.
Seller: Maria A. Alvarez
Date: 06/05/24

44 Eagle St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: Napolitano Roofing Of Mass.
Seller: Maria A. Alvarez
Date: 06/05/24

57-59 Eloise St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $395,000
Buyer: Akim Duncan
Seller: Round Two LLC
Date: 05/30/24

93 Farnsworth St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $279,500
Buyer: James Gutierrez
Seller: Margaret A. O’Malley
Date: 05/29/24

384 Forest Hills Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $382,000
Buyer: Edward F. Teague
Seller: Molly L. Dill
Date: 06/03/24

312-314 Franklin St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $417,500
Buyer: Nicolas M. Soza
Seller: Allen, Edward Howard, (Estate)
Date: 05/31/24

52-54 Fremont St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Rengui Qiao
Seller: Full House Properties LLC
Date: 06/07/24

156 Garland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $287,500
Buyer: Julien Coppry
Seller: Earl R. Rule
Date: 06/03/24

195 Garland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $120,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Laliberte, Serge J., (Estate)
Date: 06/06/24

16 Gary Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Kevin Lewis
Seller: Colson, Jane, (Estate)
Date: 05/31/24

22 Gertrude St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Shamari J. Kelly
Seller: Shirley D. Lertora
Date: 06/07/24

230 Gilbert Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $299,999
Buyer: Nikita Manzoor
Seller: Nicholas Turnberg
Date: 06/07/24

13 Grattan St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Jacquelyn J. Day
Seller: Rhonda Pimentel
Date: 05/31/24

191 Hampden St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Christopher Vachon
Seller: Eich Estates Inc.
Date: 06/07/24

106 Harkness Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Jorge L. Lizarraga
Seller: Michael R. Godek
Date: 06/07/24

51-53 Horace St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Juan D. Marte
Seller: Benny Moreno
Date: 05/31/24

85 Lancaster St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $286,000
Buyer: Tyler Narey
Seller: Christian Brandrick
Date: 05/30/24

14-16 Langdon St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $337,000
Buyer: Tomas H. Garcia
Seller: Edward A. Abraham 2022 TR
Date: 05/31/24

91-93 Lebanon St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $299,900
Buyer: Lucy A. Daveiga
Seller: Next Level Invs LLC
Date: 05/30/24

56 Leyfred Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Sarah Simpson
Seller: Long River Realty LLC
Date: 06/07/24

170-174 Main St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Round Two LLC
Seller: Carlos Porfirio
Date: 06/04/24

173 Mallowhill Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Bharati N. Reejhsinghani
Seller: Jannette Brown
Date: 05/31/24

77 Maple St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Campagnari Construction LLC
Seller: Sfmg Capital LLC
Date: 05/29/24

83 Maple St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Campagnari Construction LLC
Seller: Sfmg Capital LLC
Date: 05/29/24

95 Margerie St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $253,000
Buyer: Yarylie N. Miranda-Cruz
Seller: Jjj17 LLC
Date: 05/31/24

103-105 Maryland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Moyet
Seller: Mddo LLC
Date: 05/31/24

28 Medford St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Franchesca Martinez
Seller: Jjj17 LLC
Date: 05/31/24

39 Meredith St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Miguel J. Ambert-Ortiz
Seller: Lisa M. Rosario
Date: 06/03/24

51 Monroe St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Brian A. Ardizoni
Seller: Springfield Ventures RR
Date: 05/28/24

21 Morison Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Elliette M. Ochoa
Seller: Morison Terrace RT
Date: 06/03/24

60-62 Newland St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Fearlessrose Vacation Ren
Seller: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Date: 05/28/24

120-122 Oak Grove Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Rhaixa Cajigas
Seller: Luz Baez
Date: 05/31/24

128-130 Oak Grove Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $168,525
Buyer: Casa Trio LLC
Seller: Home Equity Mortgage Loan
Date: 06/04/24

12-14 Osgood St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $299,999
Buyer: Elvis Presinal
Seller: Alexus L. Renee
Date: 05/30/24

31 Overlea Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Zachary J. Giordano
Seller: Mark P. Dedeurwaerder
Date: 05/30/24

48 Palmer Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $294,000
Buyer: Juan E. Garcia
Seller: Aida Correa
Date: 06/05/24

141 Parkerview St.
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: West Jam Man LLC
Seller: Lawrence L. Croteau
Date: 05/31/24

6-8 Pinevale St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $288,000
Buyer: Orlando Ramos
Seller: Austin Littles
Date: 06/06/24

163 Pineywoods Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Rebekah Zamarripa
Seller: Felianyeli Espinal
Date: 05/29/24

81 Rockland St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Jjj17 LLC
Seller: Jennings, Kimberly S., (Estate)
Date: 05/30/24

172 Rosewell St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Crespo-Colon
Seller: Joejoe Properties LLC
Date: 06/07/24

89 Saint James Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Madeline I. Baez-Morales
Seller: Lachenauer LLC
Date: 05/31/24

61 Spencer St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Sean Baker
Seller: Vita C. Filippone
Date: 05/31/24

17-19 Sterling St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Starling N. Diaz-Agramonte
Seller: Devin Hoagland
Date: 06/04/24

24 Sue St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Robert Patrie
Seller: Manchester Enterprises LLC
Date: 05/28/24

440 Sumner Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Vignesh Nehru
Seller: Anthony M. Santaniello
Date: 05/31/24

62 Sylvester St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Jacquelyn M. Curving
Seller: Michele Cuozzo
Date: 06/06/24

99 Talbot Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Tetyana Syrotenko
Seller: Mark D. McCombe
Date: 05/31/24

190 Talmadge Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $217,000
Buyer: Holly S. Friedman
Seller: Carla A. Cooper
Date: 06/03/24

234-236 Union St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Campagnari Construction LLC
Seller: Sfmg Capital LLC
Date: 05/29/24

6 Venture Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Lizeth A. Patino-Rodriguez
Seller: Robert Hayes
Date: 05/31/24

99 Venture Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Todd Hanks
Seller: William Raleigh
Date: 06/04/24

30 Wexford St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Ellen S. Edwards
Seller: Shannon L. Frederick
Date: 06/07/24

21 Weymouth St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $352,000
Buyer: Matthew Newell
Seller: Anusha Kothapalli
Date: 05/31/24

237-239 White St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Anibal M. Merida
Seller: Rodriguez, Rosa, (Estate)
Date: 06/05/24

95 Windemere St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Juan M. Escobar
Seller: Dnepro Properties LLC
Date: 06/04/24

61-63 Woodlawn St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: 74 Alder Street LLC
Seller: Livingwater Capital LLC
Date: 06/03/24

1408-1410 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Iris Serrano-Melendez
Seller: Darren G. Owens
Date: 05/31/24

SOUTHWICK

6 Babb Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Robert Payne
Seller: Randall Cable
Date: 05/29/24

27 Charles Johnson Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Joel D. Faria
Seller: Robert C. Cohen
Date: 05/29/24

17 Noble Steed Xing
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $672,000
Buyer: Christopher L. Cotto
Seller: James P. Pashko
Date: 05/31/24

17 Ranch Club Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $955,000
Buyer: James P. Pashko
Seller: Eric A. Swensen
Date: 05/31/24

WESTFIELD

225 Birch Bluffs Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Nicholas Black
Seller: Joanne Black
Date: 06/07/24

64 Blueberry Ridge
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Emily Yousfi
Seller: Jennifer Y. Collins
Date: 05/31/24

10-12 Ford Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $241,956
Buyer: Bungalow Series IV TR
Seller: Nancy Rubert
Date: 06/06/24

3 Fowler St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: U.S. Bank
Seller: Awilda N. Masso
Date: 06/07/24

66 Grandview Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Katie Serra
Seller: Terry A. Lonczak
Date: 05/31/24

200 Hillside Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $241,846
Buyer: Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC
Seller: Charles H. Lamarche
Date: 05/30/24

200 Hillside Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $182,516
Buyer: Wayne A. Bush
Seller: US HUD
Date: 05/30/24

194 Holyoke Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $269,900
Buyer: Samantha Laplante
Seller: Edc Real Estate LLC
Date: 05/31/24

Montgomery Road, Lot 3
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $302,250
Buyer: Giberson Construction Inc.
Seller: William F. Reed FT
Date: 05/30/24

Montgomery Road, Lot 4
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $302,250
Buyer: Giberson Construction Inc.
Seller: William F. Reed FT
Date: 05/30/24

Montgomery Road, Lot 5
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $302,250
Buyer: Giberson Construction Inc.
Seller: William F. Reed FT
Date: 05/30/24

44-B Noble St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Alexander Sullivan
Seller: Jonathan S. Flagg
Date: 05/29/24

52 Pleasant St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Cameron Disanto
Seller: Margaret M. Considine
Date: 06/05/24

30 Radisson Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: Joseph P. Liberti
Seller: Mark Stec
Date: 05/30/24

74 Ridgeway St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $292,000
Buyer: Andrew Thompson
Seller: Christopher Eck
Date: 06/06/24

17 Rita Mary Way
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $665,010
Buyer: Holly Desantis
Seller: Brian J. Houser
Date: 05/31/24

974 Russell Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $371,250
Buyer: Elena Warters
Seller: Michael R. Townsley
Date: 06/07/24

63 Russellville Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Connor A. Pouska
Seller: Milan P. Peich
Date: 05/30/24

1295 Southampton Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Plumrose Development LLC
Seller: Seher, Robert, (Estate)
Date: 06/07/24

246 Springdale Road
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $412,000
Buyer: Ryan C. Wilcox
Seller: Timothy J. Blais
Date: 05/31/24

324 Steiger Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Stephanie Gale
Seller: Jane St. Sauveur IRT
Date: 06/07/24

130 Stony Hill Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $282,474
Buyer: Abigail R. Anselmo
Seller: Nancy T. Walas
Date: 06/07/24

6 Tow Path Lane
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $357,500
Buyer: Brenda L. Chaffee
Seller: Melissa Heishman
Date: 06/03/24

89 Westwood Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Diane M. Mayhew
Seller: Agnes Schenna
Date: 05/28/24

WEST SPRINGFIELD

63 Ashley St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Naples Home Buyers TR
Seller: Susan S. Coppola
Date: 06/07/24

86 Birnie Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: MAAS Property LLC
Seller: Diane Mango-Cahill
Date: 05/30/24

44 Day St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $315,000
Buyer: Harka Rai
Seller: Ulugbek Gusenov
Date: 06/07/24

40-42 East School St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: ATM Property LLC
Seller: Lyudmila Dubinchik
Date: 06/03/24

15 Hazel St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Manchester Ent LLC
Seller: Judith A. Bouchard
Date: 06/03/24

414 Park St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Armor Fire Technologies
Seller: VRC Realty LLC
Date: 05/31/24

81 Rogers Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $220,000
Buyer: No Limit Assets LLC
Seller: MacDonald, Lucille R., (Estate)
Date: 06/06/24

57 Worthen St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: ATM Property LLC
Seller: Arkadiy Norkin
Date: 06/03/24

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

15 Alyssum Dr.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $830,000
Buyer: Smith INT
Seller: Daniel L. Wright
Date: 05/31/24

229 Amity St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $715,000
Buyer: Panda Bear LLC
Seller: Robert Pam
Date: 06/03/24

40 Belchertown Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Amir Mikhchi
Seller: Sandri Realty Inc.
Date: 05/31/24

24 Canton Ave.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $438,000
Buyer: 24 Canton Ave. LLC
Seller: Kara Parks Fontenot RET
Date: 05/31/24

91 East Hadley Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Kwan H. Lee
Seller: Aaron J. Britt
Date: 05/31/24

27 Heatherstone Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $620,000
Buyer: Karen E. Kopper
Seller: Rachel A. Borson
Date: 06/03/24

64 Heatherstone Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $611,000
Buyer: Jeff J. Mitchell
Seller: Saman Jafari
Date: 05/28/24

3 Ladyslipper Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $830,000
Buyer: Lucia Monge
Seller: Amy C. Glynn
Date: 05/30/24

70 Leverett Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $460,000
Buyer: Ann F. Paradis
Seller: Amir Mikhchi
Date: 05/28/24

77 Morgan Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $627,000
Buyer: Ingo Helmich
Seller: John A. Cameron RET
Date: 05/31/24

16 South Sunset Ave.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $775,000
Buyer: Jason Lemoine
Seller: Katarina J. Hallonblad
Date: 05/31/24

561 Station Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Hannah Uebele
Seller: Katherine O. Garrison
Date: 06/07/24

5 Stony Hill Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $720,000
Buyer: Shelly A. Perdomo-Ahmed
Seller: Peter J. Greenwald
Date: 06/04/24

BELCHERTOWN

160 Gold St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $740,000
Buyer: Christina E. Fitch
Seller: Manuel A. Andrade
Date: 06/07/24

30 Jasons Way
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $725,000
Buyer: Wyatt B. Couture
Seller: Brian A. Duprey
Date: 05/29/24

33 Magnolia Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $651,000
Buyer: Lelie Ellis
Seller: Gonzalo Aguilar
Date: 05/28/24

31 Maplecrest Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $426,000
Buyer: Willard A. McKinstry
Seller: Kenneth J. Pietras
Date: 06/06/24

322 Mill Valley Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Katelyn Bachand
Seller: Darren J. Chevalier
Date: 06/07/24

29 Old Amherst Road
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $429,800
Buyer: Joshua Cox
Seller: VBC Rentals LLC
Date: 05/28/24

479 South St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Barry L. Reaves
Seller: Jeramy Sands
Date: 06/07/24

EASTHAMPTON

7 Beechwood Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $527,000
Buyer: Vicki I. Grodsky
Seller: Elizabeth R. Crocker
Date: 05/30/24

10 Beyer Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Jacob Boillat
Seller: Lorna K. Hunt
Date: 06/07/24

17 Fort Hill Road
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Shayne Taylor
Seller: John A. Knybel
Date: 06/07/24

75 Holyoke St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Steven J. Fickert
Seller: John R. Hawley
Date: 06/06/24

9 Lang Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Patrick Casey
Seller: Eve Endicott
Date: 05/31/24

233 Park St.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $384,000
Buyer: Suresh R. Madhwapathy
Seller: Hill-Ture TR
Date: 05/30/24

13 Sterling Dr.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $509,000
Buyer: Dennis J. Meehan
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 05/31/24

Strong St., Lot 28
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Dube RET
Seller: David A. Hardy Contractor
Date: 06/05/24

4 Ward Ave.
Easthampton, MA 01027
Amount: $404,000
Buyer: Avi Steinhardt
Seller: Paul S. Frisoli
Date: 06/05/24

GRANBY

201 Amherst St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $750,000
Buyer: Deanna L. Veinotte
Seller: Kaylee A. Bean
Date: 05/30/24

HADLEY

1 Colony Dr.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $801,000
Buyer: Emily C. Nutwell
Seller: Bercume Construction LLC
Date: 05/31/24

68 North Maple St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Manuel Morocho
Seller: Randall G. Store
Date: 05/30/24

 

HATFIELD

66 Chestnut St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $530,000
Buyer: Ian Saisselin
Seller: Jamison A. Bradshaw
Date: 06/07/24

Depot Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $179,000
Buyer: Danielle Anderson
Seller: Jonathan Tucker
Date: 06/03/24

113 Depot Road
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: Donna L. Rowe
Seller: Michael Packard
Date: 05/31/24

12 Dwight St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Tascon Homes LLC
Seller: Naples Homes Buyers TR
Date: 06/04/24

339 West St.
Hatfield, MA 01066
Amount: $349,000
Buyer: Julia E. McLew
Seller: Danielle A. Lenhard
Date: 06/07/24

HUNTINGTON

1 Allen Coit Road
Huntington, MA 01050
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Leah M. Wilson
Seller: Ivy J. McClaflin
Date: 05/31/24

NORTHAMPTON

15 Ferry Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Bulldog Realty Group LLC
Seller: Great Falls Prop LLC
Date: 06/07/24

691 Park Hill Road
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $948,300
Buyer: Eric Berzins
Seller: D. L. & Nancy L. Perkins LT
Date: 06/07/24

40 Ridgewood Ter.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $705,000
Buyer: Baker INT
Seller: Amanda C. Dixon
Date: 05/30/24

12 Vernon St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $664,000
Buyer: Painted Rock Four LLC
Seller: Michele L. Ruschhaupt
Date: 05/29/24

43 Wilson Ave.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $630,000
Buyer: Susan W. Chichester
Seller: Denise M. Diminuco
Date: 05/31/24

PELHAM

17 Buffam Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $800,000
Buyer: Timothy Pachirat
Seller: George W. Goodman
Date: 05/31/24

PLAINFIELD

305 Main St.
Plainfield, MA 01070
Amount: $225,425
Buyer: Thomas A. Carriker
Seller: Amerihome Mortgage
Date: 05/30/24

SOUTH HADLEY

23 Ashfield Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $546,800
Buyer: Jenning Hoffman LT
Seller: Debora Battaglia
Date: 06/05/24

54 Canal St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: 54 Canal LLC
Seller: William F. Jerome
Date: 05/31/24

47 Columbia St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Andre J. Duquette
Seller: Leblanc, Francis D., (Estate)
Date: 06/07/24

4 Country Lane
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Jason C. Zurheide
Seller: Zurheide, C. F., (Estate)
Date: 05/29/24

21 Highland Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: David Taus
Seller: Mark W. Gingras
Date: 05/28/24

38 Mountain Ave.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $445,000
Buyer: Ester S. Rodrigeus
Seller: Malena C. Tracy
Date: 06/07/24

SOUTHAMPTON

9 Cold Spring Road
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: Esther D. Clark Solo K. T.
Seller: Vincent R. Snyder
Date: 06/05/24

14 Glendale Woods Dr.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Craig M. Schoen
Seller: David A. Schoen
Date: 05/29/24

WARE

29 Aspen St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: Haley Remodeling LLC
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 06/06/24

44 Bank St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Jakor Lopez
Seller: Sarah J. Douglas
Date: 06/04/24

3 Berkshire Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Kaleena Fadden
Seller: Home Improvement Maintenance
Date: 05/30/24

22 Church St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $140,000
Buyer: Alycar Investments LLC
Seller: Mettig, Melanie C., (Estate)
Date: 06/03/24

32 Eagle St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Jose Rosario
Seller: Linda F. Ricko
Date: 05/28/24

33 Gould Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $138,000
Buyer: Zachary T. Leclair
Seller: Jennifer L. Leclair
Date: 05/30/24

39 Homecrest Ave.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Stephen Cedeno
Seller: John O. Moore
Date: 06/07/24

54 Marjorie St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: April G. Kubaska
Seller: Karen L. Lackman
Date: 05/29/24

16 Meadow Road
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $324,000
Buyer: James R. Bergeron
Seller: Stephanie L. Henley
Date: 05/30/24

19 Shoreline Dr.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Michele M. Maltais
Seller: Charles W. Thomas
Date: 05/30/24

193 West St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Harris Holdings LLC
Seller: David M. Bera
Date: 06/03/24

59 West Main St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Angel G. Garcia
Seller: Avvy Holding Group LLC
Date: 05/31/24

16 Warebrook Village
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Olivia Ricci
Seller: Michelle A. Eckert
Date: 05/31/24

WESTHAMPTON

43 Northwest Road
Westhampton, MA 01027
Amount: $490,000
Buyer: Kael Miyata
Seller: Donald & Nancy Graham FT
Date: 06/03/24

WORTHINGTON

591 Old Post Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $700,000
Buyer: Vance G. Richardson
Seller: Jerrilee Cain RET
Date: 05/31/24

Building Permits

By
Building Permits

The following building permits were issued during the month of June 2024.

CHICOPEE

A1 Screw Machine Products Inc.
717 Fuller Road
$24,900 — Roofing

C&C Mass Ventures LLC
33 Haynes Circle
$15,000 — Install new handicap ramp to existing storefront entrance

Chicopee Assisted Living
929 Memorial Dr.
$249,995 — Roofing

Hampden Charter School of Science
20 Johnson Road
$42,000 — Bathroom remodeling

Pioneer Valley Church
85 Montcalm St.
$61,000 — Roofing

EASTHAMPTON

ESP LLC
15 Pleasant St.
$2,900 — Replace man door

Riverside Industries Inc.
1 Cottage St.
$18,000 — Roofing

HADLEY

333 Russell St. LLC
333 Russell St.
N/A — Replace existing sign and move it back

Hadley Mall Outparcel LLC
379 Russell St.
N/A — Interior fit-out for restaurant

NORTHAMPTON

Children’s Advocacy Center of Hampshire County Inc.
593 Elm St.
$26,000 — Install roof-mounted solar panels

Emerald City Partners LLC
25 New South St.
$203,000 — Interior renovation to classroom space in Unit A104

J-Barc Inc.
219 Main St.
$13,450 — Two replacement windows

JW Inc.
13 Old South St.
$56,582 — Install heat pumps

McDonald’s Corp.
221 King St.
$65,000 — Interior renovation

Smith College
7 College Lane
$50,000 — Renovate classroom

Smith College
44 College Lane
$881,827 — Interior renovation to Rooms 106 and 107 of Sabin-Reed Hall

Smith College
186 Elm St.
$21,953,262 — Install new energy plant and add panels and power fan ceiling units on 31 floors of eight buildings

Smith College
144 Green St.
$56,566 — Interior renovation to Room 214 of Sage Hall

PITTSFIELD

Cavalier Livingston LLC
257 East St.
$30,000 — Remove existing first-floor deck to make repairs to retaining wall below ground level

City of Pittsfield
300 East St.
$2,482,000 — Remove existing boilers and replace with new boilers

City of Pittsfield
950 North St.
$2,130,000 — Roofing

City of Pittsfield
9 Somerset Ave.
$91,900 — Replace windows

City of Pittsfield
South Mountain Road
$2,587,145 — Construct photovoltaic distributed generation system for Pittsfield Airport Commission

City of Pittsfield
832 Tamarack Road
$44,235 — Construct photovoltaic distributed system for Pittsfield Airport Commission

Clinical & Support Options
24 Ann Dr.
$27,000 — Install automatic sprinklers to suit new tenant layout

The Clock Tower Associates Inc.
75 South Church St.
$8,100 — Provide sprinkler modifications within tenant space

CW Acquisitions LLC
1685 West Housatonic St.
$70,000 — Roofing

Johnson Family Real Estate
694 East St.
$101,500 — Roofing

KOW LLC
53 Madison Ave.
$6,000 — Install sound channels on walls and sheetrock on ceiling and walls in kitchen only

 

Museum Facsimiles Realty LLC
117 Fourth St.
$40,000 — Build walls for storage facility

Ranchodji Inc.
16 Cheshire Road
$9,800 — Replace four fire doors

RKE Realty LLC
100 West St.
$11,000 — Build two offices

Spelman Nominee Trust
14 Gordon St.
$13,500 — Repairs from vehicle collision with building, including replacing damaged decorative column with new column and replacing two existing doors with one commercial double door

Viability Inc.
85 West Housatonic St.
$29,416 — Raise kitchen floor to accommodate second means of egress

SPRINGFIELD

City of Springfield
36 Margaret St.
$286,468 — Alter interior lower basement level of South End Middle School for classroom use

City of Springfield
50 Morison Terrace
$81,734.25 — Alter interior lower level of Glenwood Elementary School for school activity and storage room use

City of Springfield
52 Rosewell Blvd.
$300,000 — Alter interior lower level auditorium of Balliet Elementary School for classroom use

CMSA Holding LLC
742 State St.
$23,880 — Roofing

Gándara Mental Health Center Inc.
85 St. George Road
$944,230 — Interior remodel and roofing

Holyoke Chicopee Springfield Head Start Inc.
30 Madison Ave.
$1,338,650 — Roofing

Human Resources Unlimited
60 Brookdale Dr.
$173,625 — Roofing

JJS Capital Investment LLC
71 Suffolk St.
$10,000 — Insulation and air sealing

Rhino Realty LLC
143 Parker St.
$538,337.20 — Erect building for Conway Car Dealership

Route 20-21 Associates Inc.
1380 Boston Road
$110,000 — Roofing

Route 20-21 Associates Inc.
1420 Boston Road
$45,000 — Roofing

Christopher Suarez
125 Arcadia Blvd.
$24,000 — Install solar panels to roof of detached garage

Consider Office-to-housing Conversions

By
Opinion

Editorial

 

Gov. Maura Healey’s administration recently announced it is providing $15 million to help extend a Boston program designed to bring more vibrancy downtown by converting underused office buildings to housing.

The money will help Mayor Michelle Wu continue a program that offers property tax breaks for such office-to-residential conversions. Since the program was launched last fall, developers have filed nine proposals to convert office space across 13 buildings that collectively could bring another 412 housing units to Boston’s central business district. With the conversion program, Wu is offering developers as much as 75% off property tax bills for up to 29 years.

With this state money coming, the Wu administration has decided to keep the program going until the end of 2025, instead of ending it on June 30 as initially planned, with the hopes of spurring another 300 to 500 units.

The program is intriguing, and it is our hope that the Healey administration — and the Legislature — will make similar incentives available to other communities, including Springfield and other cities in Western Mass. Indeed, the state aid to Boston comes as the Legislature considers a housing bond bill that could further boost office-residential conversions. A version that recently passed the House would provide $150 million in technical assistance funds for cities and towns while creating tax credits equal to as much as 10% of the project costs to incentivize conversions.

Communities in this region haven’t been hit as hard as Boston when it comes to soaring vacancy rates in office buildings due to the huge pendulum swing toward remote work — and few, if any, signs that the pendulum might actually swing back any time soon. But communities like Springfield, Northampton, and even Greenfield have certainly felt the pinch — and for longer.

In Springfield, there are buildings, such as the property generally known as Harrison Place, once home to Bank of Western Massachusetts, and others along Main Street, that have been vacant or largely vacant since long before COVID. And with the shift toward remote work, there is little hope they can return to that use.

Meanwhile, some properties that were dedicated to office or a mix of office and retail, such as the Clocktower Building and the Colonial Block, are being redeveloped for mostly residential use — and those doing the developing could certainly use some additional pots of money to make these efforts reality.

That’s because conversion from office to residential isn’t easy, and it’s quite expensive.

In Boston, the incentive program was created as a way to bring more vibrancy in the wake of a sharp decline in the number of workers coming to the city on a daily basis; there have been studies to suggest that downtown foot traffic is roughly half of what it was before the pandemic. The theory, and it has a great deal of validity, is that people living in those buildings can provide at least as much, if not more, support to businesses in that area than people working in them.

The same is true for Springfield and other cities in this region.

That’s why we hope the incentives being offered to developers in Boston are made available across the Commonwealth. As we noted, conversions from office to residential are not easy or cheap, but they provide solid hope for bringing more vibrancy to downtown areas, while also helping to alleviate a Commonwealth-wide shortage of housing.

A New World of HR Leadership

By Contributor
Opinion

Opinion

By Allison Ebner

Over the past several decades, the human-resources position has slowly evolved from a very tactical and compliance-heavy role to a more holistic and thoughtful voice that helps lift an organization to bigger heights.

That slow pace of evolution has had a few Red Bull energy drinks recently and is now moving at the speed of light, threatening to leave behind HR professionals who are not moving to gain new competencies and tools.

The ‘new world of work’ is comprised of a complex ecosystem of operations, technology, and integration of human capital. In short, this symphony sounds perfectly harmonized only if all parts of the orchestra are playing the right notes. Like the meteoric rise in AI technology, the skills we must bring to our organization as the people professionals have taken a giant leap forward.

So, what are these new competencies that HR professionals need to bring to the table today? Let me quote my colleague, Kim Dunn for the simple definition first: “business first, people always.”

Business Acumen: Do you know the financial picture of your entire organization? Can you read a P&L or balance a full budget? Do you follow your industry trade publications or attend events to become more educated? Travel with your sales teams to talk with your customers and clients? It’s only when you have a full understanding of your business operations that you can effectively create a talent plan to support it.

Data Literacy: Does your current HR technology support the needs of your organization? Are you maximizing the tech that you have now? Reporting and metrics tied to your people operations are critical components of your strategic plans and initiatives.

Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: Ready to get uncomfortable? Figure out how to build relationships with people you don’t really like. Why? They probably think differently than you do. And that means they have a perspective that you don’t. As HR people leaders, we need to be able to clearly evaluate all sides of an issue or problem, and we can’t do that in a vacuum. By the way, this also includes building and flexing your negotiation skills.

Creating People-centric Cultures: This one feels closest to home for most HR professionals. But we need to expand our skills around helping our employees build resilience and understand that change and uncertainty are here to stay. They’re part of our daily lives now, and we need to learn to function in a world of VUCA — volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity.

Organizational Transformation: This includes skills like refreshing your employer brand for talent development, updating your EVP (employee value proposition), and rebuilding your performance management system — big initiatives that put you at the center of the strategic table in your organization.

You may be feeling very comfortable with some of these competencies and less confident in others. That’s OK. Conduct an honest assessment of where you need to focus your attention and find resources that can help you build those skills.

EANE is here to help you with that initiative. Our HRYOUniversity programs are designed to help you be a well-rounded HR professional with all the talents you need to take your career to the next level. For a discussion about building your own learning pathway, contact me, and I’ll be happy to send you our self-assessment form and a few other resources to get you started.

 

Allison Ebner is president of the Employers Assoc. of the Northeast. This article first appeared on the EANE blog; eane.org

Rocky’s Ace Hardware Breaks Ground on New, Larger Store in South Hadley

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — Rocky’s Ace Hardware, one of the country’s largest family-owned Ace Hardware dealers, held a groundbreaking ceremony on June 19 for a new, expanded store in the South Hadley Plaza at 501 Newton St., which is co-owned locally by the Falcone, Picknelly, and Yee families. The anticipated opening of the new store is March 2025, replacing the existing store in the same plaza.

“This is going to be a 13,000-square-foot new building, all new construction,” Rocky’s Ace Hardware President and CEO Rocco Falcone II said. “We will be relocating from a 10,000-square-foot store, expanding the sales floor and adding a 2,000-square-foot garden center for live plants, Christmas trees, and things of that nature.”

Plans for the new Rocky’s store also include expanded paint and grilling centers, as well as a workwear department featuring the Carhartt brand.

“We’ll carry all the quality name brands we’re known for, such as Benjamin Moore paint; Weber, Traeger, and Big Green Egg in grilling; and Milwaukee, Dewalt, Stihl, Ego, and Craftsman in power tools, to name a few,” Falcone said. “We’ve got a big partnership with Scotts in lawn and garden, and the indoor and outdoor power-equipment department is going to be a knock-your-socks-off experience.”

Falcone noted that, when the Falcone, Picknelly, and Yee families purchased the plaza in 2016, it contained an empty former grocery store and wasn’t being used to its potential. He said the second phase of the project, slated to begin in March 2025 in conjunction with Way Finders, is to construct a six-unit apartment building.

Edison Yee, a partner in the project, said, “I grew up in the town of South Hadley, and in the late ’70s and early ’80s, this used to be our hangout, a gathering spot for meeting up for the night. There used to be a Friendly’s and a Waldbaum’s grocery store. Waldbaum’s closed in 2013, and it’s been relatively dormant since then. I think this revitalization signifies a new era for South Hadley, to hopefully bring the community together and back to this area.”

Falcone said he remembers signing the lease on the South Hadley store back in the ’80s. “It was our seventh store location, and now we have 50. We’re pretty excited to become more ingrained into the South Hadley community as a property owner and not just a tenant.”

The current Rocky’s store will remain open with minimal disruptions during construction and will be available for lease after the store moves to its new home. Construction of the new store is being led by Caolo & Bieniek Architects and Inglewood General Contractors, in conjunction with Falcone Development.

The Royal Law Firm Welcomes Sabba Salebaigi-Tse

By
Daily News

Sabba Salebaigi-Tse

SPRINGFIELD — The Royal Law Firm recently welcomed attorney Sabba Salebaigi-Tse to the team.

Salebaigi-Tse received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Alberta in Canada; her juris doctorate from Thompson Rivers University in Canada, and her master of laws degree from the University of Connecticut.

She advises and represents clients in various labor- and employment-law matters and is admitted to practice law in Massachusetts. Her professional experience includes roles as a research assistant, legal researcher, and student clinician in various legal-aid clinics. Her background in legal research and advocacy, combined with hands-on experience in client representation and legal consulting, equips her to handle complex litigation effectively. She has received several awards for her legal research and writing skills.

AIC Welcomes Lisa Doherty to Board of Trustees

By
Daily News

Lisa Doherty

SPRINGFIELD — American International College (AIC) announced the appointment of Lisa Doherty as the newest member of its board of trustees.

Doherty is president and CEO of Business Risk Partners (BRP), which she co-founded with her sister, Linda Boborodea, more than 20 years ago. They started BRP in 2000 to provide professional specialty commercial liability insurance for small to medium-sized companies.

While BRP initially focused on businesses with up to $50 million in revenues, it has grown as a specialty insurance underwriter and program administrator and writes policies for companies of all sizes nationwide. BRP has been awarded the “best practice” distinction, meeting the rigorous standards and best practices set by the Target Market Program Administrators Assoc.

Doherty has served on the board for Veritas Preparatory Charter School in Springfield since 2010. Veritas Prep is a public, tuition-free school in Springfield that prepares students in grades 5 through 12 to compete, achieve, and succeed in college and beyond.

Doherty is a graduate of Brown University, where she studied economics and international relations. Her experience and proven leadership in the insurance industry, along with her commitment to education and community service, exemplify the values and vision of AIC.

American Junior Golf Assoc. Returns to Chicopee Country Club

By
Daily News

CHICOPEE — Chicopee Country Club is currently hosting the return of the American Junior Golf Assoc. (AJGA) tournament, the John D. Mineck AJGA. This event showcases some of the world’s top junior golfers.

Now in its sixth consecutive year at Chicopee Country Club, the tournament kicked off with a qualifier on Monday, which will be followed by a practice round today, July 2. The main tournament rounds will commence on July 3 and culminate on July 5.

The AJGA tournament has a storied history of featuring rising stars in golf, with notable past participants including Tiger Woods, Scottie Scheffler, Justin Thomas, Jordan Spieth, Nelly Korda, Annika Sörenstam, and many more. Many of these junior golfers have leveraged their AJGA experience as a springboard to successful careers at the collegiate and professional levels.

“We are thrilled to host the John D. Mineck AJGA tournament for the sixth consecutive year,” said Mike O’Neill, director of Golf at Chicopee Country Club. “This event not only highlights the talent and dedication of these young golfers, but also provides a fantastic opportunity for the community to come together and enjoy world-class golf in our own backyard.”

Mayor John Vieau of Chicopee expressed his enthusiasm for the event, adding that, “the AJGA tournament at Chicopee Country Club showcases our city’s commitment to fostering youth talent and promoting sportsmanship. We welcome participants and spectators alike to enjoy this exciting showcase of skill and dedication.”

Members of the public are encouraged to attend and cheer on these future golfing stars throughout the week. Admission to the event is free, offering families and golf enthusiasts a chance to witness exciting golf action and support the next generation of champions.

UMassFive Introduces Hilary Barnard as Human Resources Manager

By
Daily News

Hilary Barnard

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced Hilary Barnard in her new role as Human Resources manager. She comes to UMassFive with more than 15 years of leadership experience. Her recent roles include serving as HR director in both the healthcare and property-management sectors and, previously, as store director for a large retail chain.

Barnard has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a master’s degree in e-learning and instructional design from Northeastern University. Additionally, she holds SHRM-CP credentials, showcasing her commitment to excellence as a certified professional recognized by the Society of Human Resources Management.

In her new position, Barnard is responsible for supporting a variety of human-resources operations and initiatives, including supporting the recruiting process, recognition programs, training and development, and a variety of other projects.

“I am so excited to begin making a positive impact here at the credit union and learn how I can best support the team,” she said.

MCLA to Host 2024 Leadership Conference, Keynote Presentations

By
Daily News

NORTH ADAMS — Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) announced the campus will host the 2024 Leadership Conference, the culminating experience for the Leadership Academy 2023 cohort, on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, July 5-7.

Darcy Fernandes, senior associate commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), will open the conference with a keynote presentation on July 5 from 7 to 9 p.m. in Murdock Hall, Room 218. Additional keynote presentations include MCLA Vice Provost of Equity and Belonging André Lynch on July 6, and Anti-bias Education Consultant Phil Fogelman on July 7.

“Alumni Talks” will be offered on Saturday and Sunday mornings from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Conference sessions will run on July 6 and 7 from 10 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., presented by members of the Leadership Academy 2023 cohort on topics ranging from leading inclusive, anti-racist schools to implementing instructional programs that enhance success for all. Sessions are organized according to the four standards established by DESE’s Professional Standards for Administrator Leadership: instructional leadership, management and operations, family and community engagement, and professional culture.

The conference will be held in person at Bowman Hall on MCLA’s campus. “Remote access is available for all sessions, and we welcome all educators to join us in person or virtually,” MCLA Leadership Academy Director Marianne Young said. Educators interested in attending the conference can register online by clicking here or by contacting Marianne Young at [email protected].

GCB’s Jeremy Payson Completes ABA Stonier Graduate School of Banking

By
Daily News

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) announced that Jeremy Payson, executive vice president and controller, has graduated from the American Bankers Assoc. Stonier Graduate School of Banking at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

The Stonier Graduate School of Banking is a highly regarded, multi-year program designed to develop future leaders in the financial-services industry. Through a combination of intensive on-campus sessions and off-site coursework, graduates gain a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of banking, from commercial lending and risk management to strategic planning and leadership development.

“We are thrilled to congratulate Jeremy on this well-deserved accomplishment,” said Tony Worden, president and CEO of GCB. “He has shown a strong commitment to professional development, and we are confident that the knowledge and skills gained at Stonier will be invaluable to our bank as he continues to grow in his career.”

Payson’s graduation from the Stonier Graduate School of Banking underscores Greenfield Co-op’s commitment to investing in its employees and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Springfield Rescue Mission’s Ride to End Homelessness Slated for July 28

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Rescue Mission is inviting area motorcyclists to participate in its annual Ride to End Homelessness on Sunday, July 28. The ride starts with registration beginning at 10 a.m. and kickstands up at 12:30 p.m. at Sheldon Harley-Davidson, 914 Southbridge St., Auburn. It ends at the Springfield Rescue Mission, 10 Mill St., Springfield, with an after-party at 2:30 p.m.

“This event offers a cool way for riders to come together and do something they love for a cause,” said Kevin Ramsdell, executive director and CEO of Springfield Rescue Mission. “Funds raised will be used to provide essential supportive programming, food, clothing, and shelter for those in our communities who have fallen on hard times.”

The after-party will feature raffles, food and drinks available for purchase, and live music by Night Moves, a Bob Seger tribute band. The party is free for ride participants and open to the whole community with a $10 donation per person.

“Walk-ins are welcome to attend the after-party, so even if you can’t join us for the ride, come on down to show your support and have some summer fun,” Ramsdell said.

As an emergency shelter, mobile feeding program, rehabilitation and transformation center, and transitional living facility, Springfield Rescue Mission provides food, shelter, clothing, medical attention, Christian counseling, financial literacy, workforce development, high-school equivalency, higher-educational opportunities. and more, free of charge. These programs help local men take meaningful steps toward becoming responsible and productive members of the community.

Click here to learn more and register for the Springfield Rescue Mission’s Ride to End Homelessness.

MP CPAs Promotes Melissa English, Sharon Blazejowski, Joe Oliveira

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — MP CPAs, a full-service certified public accounting firm offering a wide range of accounting, tax, and consulting services to clients of all sizes, announced the promotions of three directors who have consistently exceeded client expectations and helped enhance team development and growth within the firm.

Melissa English

Melissa English, senior manager, has been promoted to director. She has been with the firm for 23 years, working with clients across a variety of industries. Her background includes managing audits, reviews, and compilations of financial statements of nonprofit organizations, employee benefit plans, and small to medium-sized for-profit businesses specializing in employee benefit plan audits.

English serves on the board of trustees of several local organizations, including serving as treasurer of the Chicopee Galaxy Youth Athletic Assoc., as well as serving as audit chair of Viability Inc. She is a certified employee benefit plan specialist and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Sharon Blazejowski

Sharon Blazejowski, senior manager, has been promoted to director. She has been with the firm for 28 years, working with clients across a variety of industries. Her background includes managing audits, reviews, and compilations of financial statements in various industries, specializing in charter schools and nonprofit organizations by performing yellow-book and single audits under government auditing standards and uniform guidance.

Blazejowski takes an active role in the local community by participating in various community fundraising and networking events, including serving as treasurer of a local youth sports team. She is a certified public accountant in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Massachusetts Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Joe Oliveira

Joe Oliveira, senior manager, has been promoted to director. He joined the firm in 2014 and has more than 20 years of experience providing consulting and tax solutions to a diverse group of clients including individuals, partnerships, limited liability companies, corporations, and trusts. He specializes in working closely with high-net-worth clients, as well as private equity firms and their owners.

Oliveira is currently treasurer for the Massachusetts Service Alliance and Suffield Girls Scouts. He is a certified public account in Connecticut and Massachusetts and a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Connecticut Society of Certified Public Accountants.

Two Greenfield Savings Bank Mortgage Lenders Recognized as Top Loan Originators

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Daily News

Misty Lyons

GREENFIELD — Misty Lyons and Katya Krasnova, assistant vice presidents and mortgage officers at Greenfield Savings Bank, have both been recognized as top loan originators in Western Mass. for 2023 by Banker & Tradesman, a financial-industry publication that tracks banking and real-estate activity in Massachusetts.

“I am so proud of Misty and Katya,” said Lori Grover, senior vice president and senior Residential Lending officer at Greenfield Savings Bank. “This is a great achievement for both of them.”

Katya Krasnova

Lyons has been recognized as the third-ranking loan originator by dollar volume. She joined the bank in 2019 and works out of its Amherst office at 6 University Dr., covering all of Hampshire County.

Krasnova is the fourth-ranking loan originator by number of loans. She joined the bank in 2016, covers Franklin County, and works out of the Greenfield office at 400 Main St.

In 2023, Greenfield Savings Bank was also the number-one purchase mortgage lender in Hampshire County and, for the 22nd year in row, was the number-one mortgage lender in Franklin County, according to Banker & Tradesman.

PeoplesBank Again Named to Best Banks in Massachusetts List

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — PeoplesBank has again been honored as one of the Best Banks in Massachusetts in the seventh annual America’s Best Banks list from Forbes, and is the only bank headquartered in Western Mass. to make the list. The bank was similarly honored in 2023.

The results were compiled from survey data from more than 26,000 bank customers, as well as online reviews and ratings from 2021 to 2024.

Larger banks and credit unions with branches in 15 or more states — including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and JPMorgan Chase — were excluded. Top regional banks and credit unions — which populate this year’s lists — have learned how to build a loyal customer base despite being smaller and having fewer resources than their larger counterparts with branches spanning the country, and often the world.

Westfield State University Offering Addiction Counselor Education Program

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Daily News

WESTFIELD — Westfield State University is currently accepting applications for the 2024-25 addiction counselor education (ACE) program. Classes will be held on evenings and weekends beginning in September 2024 and ending in August 2025.

The goal of this non-credit certificate program, offered at the university since 1991, is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and techniques necessary for the successful treatment of individuals and families afflicted by alcoholism and/or other drug addictions. This program has been highly instrumental in the professional development of individuals in the Western Mass. area who are currently working in or interested in becoming a part of the growing healthcare field of addiction services.

The application and application instructions for the ACE program can be found at www.westfield.ma.edu/ace. For more information or to have an application mailed, contact Brandon Fredette at [email protected] or (413) 572-8033.

Monson Savings Bank Named ERC5 Business of the Year

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Daily News

MONSON — Monson Savings Bank was recently named the East of the River Chamber of Commerce (ERC5) Business of the Year. The announcement was made at the chamber’s 2024 annual meeting awards and reception event held at Twin Hills Country Club.

“Monson Savings Bank’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals in our communities,” said Grace Barone, executive director of the ERC5. “The transformative influence of the Monson Savings Bank team under the team’s exceptional leadership is undeniable. I congratulate the entire Monson Savings Bank team on being awarded the ERC5 Business of the Year, with immense respect and admiration.”

The community bank was chosen as the ERC5 Business of the Year by the ERC5’s board members and ambassadors. The ERC5 affiliates voted Monson Savings Bank Business of the Year based on the bank’s achievements and contributions to the communities.

“Although I know there are many other businesses that are just as deserving of this award, I’ll gladly accept it as recognition of my team’s unwavering dedication to the bank’s mission,” said Dan Moriarty, Monson Savings Bank president and CEO. “As a team, we strive to be an integral part of the greater community by meeting the changing needs of all customers in our communities by providing high-value financial products, exceptional personal service, and genuine community support. Monson Savings will always work hard to be a community- and customer-focused bank where people are proud to do their banking.”

475 Canal MA LLC Converts 475 Canal St. into CubeSmart Self Storage Facility

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Daily News

HOLYOKE — 475 Canal MA LLC announced the conversion of 475 Canal St. in Holyoke into a CubeSmart Self Storage facility. The project is spearheaded by principals James Quinn, Gary Youm, and Richard Lee, who bring a wealth of experience and vision to this development.

CubeSmart, a $12 billion real-estate investment trust (REIT) known for its leadership in the self-storage industry, will oversee both the asset management and property management of the new facility. This partnership promises to bring state-of-the-art storage solutions to Holyoke residents.

“We are very excited to partner with CubeSmart, a true leader in the self-storage industry, on 475 Canal St. in Holyoke,” Quinn said. “Their expertise in property management and customer service will ensure that this facility meets the highest standards.”

Added Youm, “Holyoke is a great town to live in, and this facility will provide a quality, climate-controlled self-storage solution, enhancing the convenience and storage options available to the community.”

Jordan Hart, executive director of the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, added that “CubeSmart’s arrival marks an exhilarating addition to the Holyoke community, poised to catalyze the city’s growth and prosperity.”

CubeSmart’s 475 Canal St. facility is set to have its grand opening today, June 27 at 11 a.m. and welcomes the public to attend. This new addition to Holyoke will feature modern, climate-controlled units designed to meet a variety of storage needs, from personal to business use.

State Awards $15.9 Million to Train and Place More Than 2,100 Workers

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Daily News

BOSTON — The Healey-Driscoll administration announced $15.9 million in workforce-development grant funding for 22 initiatives across Massachusetts, representing partnerships with employers, training providers, and regional collaborators. This latest round of workforce-development funding will train, upskill, and provide job placement for 2,182 workers for in-demand occupations in healthcare, human services, life sciences, culinary arts, and more.

The announced investments in Senator Kenneth J. Donnelly Workforce Success grants are funded by the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development and administered by Commonwealth Corp. through the state’s Workforce Competitiveness Trust Fund. Each awarded grant aims to close the skills gap, increase access to well-paying jobs for unemployed and underemployed residents, and strengthen productivity and workforce needs among employers in regions throughout Massachusetts.

“These Workforce Success Grants will provide hundreds of Massachusetts residents with access to quality job training and connect our employers with the skilled workforce they need to do business,” Gov. Maura Healey said. “Recruiting and retaining a strong and diverse workforce is key to our economic growth and competitiveness.”

Lauren Jones, secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, added that, “by investing in these collaborative partnerships, we are increasing access, opportunities, and outcomes for Massachusetts residents to train, upskill, and compete in our growing workforce.”

Three of the 22 awards will go to organizations in Western Mass.:

• Bay Path University will receive $1,768,036 to provide training and placement services to 144 unemployed and underemployed participants for healthcare assistant, medical assistant, and residential support professional positions. The university will partner with Cooley Dickinson Hospital and Toward Independent Learning and Living Inc.

“We are very excited about the opportunity this grant offers to build a robust collaboration with Cooley Dickinson Hospital, TILL Inc., and our other partners, which include the MassHire workforce boards and career centers in the Pioneer Valley and Northeast planning regions, Springfield Works!, and the United Way of Pioneer Valley,” Bay Path President Sandy Doran said. “With our focus on unemployed or underemployed individuals, our vision is to accelerate their entry into upwardly mobile career and educational pathways in the healthcare and human-services fields through entry-level healthcare assistant positions, thereby addressing critical workforce shortages in the regions we serve.”

• Holyoke Community College will receive $1,564,732 to lead a consortium that includes Berkshire Community College, Greenfield Community College, Roxbury Community College, and Springfield Technical Community College to provide training and placement services to 330 participants for paraprofessional educator roles. Additional partners include Holyoke Public Schools, Central Berkshire Regional School District, Springfield Public Schools, William Monroe Trotter Elementary School & Henry L. Higginson Inclusion School, Mohawk Trail Regional School, Mattahunt Elementary School, and Greenfield Public Schools.

• SnapChef in Springfield and Dorchester will receive $500,000 to provide training and placement services to 168 unemployed and underemployed participants for culinary professional positions. The company will partner with Loophole Brewing, Fresh Food Generation, and Daily Table.

“Receiving the WCTF Donnelly grant from Commonwealth Corporation is a transformative moment for Snapchef, Snapchef Foundation, and the communities we serve,” Snapchef founder and CEO Todd Snopkowski said. “This funding will allow us to expand our Fast Track hands-on culinary training program, equipping individuals with the skills employers need and providing a clear pathway to stable and rewarding careers. Workforce development is at the heart of what we do, as it not only empowers individuals, but also strengthens families and communities. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to make a significant impact and look forward to the positive changes it will bring.”

Florence Bank Presents 2024 Community Support Award to Kim Baker

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Daily News

Kim Baker

FLORENCE — Florence Bank announced it recently presented its 2024 Community Support Award to longtime employee Kim Baker.

The Community Support Award was established by the bank in 1997 as a means of formally recognizing team members who are active in the community and give their personal and professional time to local nonprofit organizations.

Each year, the award recipient selects an organization of his or her choice, and the bank donates $500 to that organization on the recipient’s behalf. Baker chose to support United Way of the Franklin & Hampshire Region.

Baker joined Florence Bank in 1995 and currently serves as vice president, Commercial Loan Operations and compliance officer at the bank’s main office in Florence. She is responsible for commercial-loan compliance, including regulatory and management reporting.

She holds an associate degree from Holyoke Community College, a bachelor’s degree in business management with a concentration in finance from Westfield State College, and a master’s degree in business administration from UMass Amherst.

In the community, she is a member of Hatfield’s Finance Committee and the Hatfield Saint Kaz Polish Club. She volunteers for Jessie’s House, Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Cancer Connection, the Three County Fair, and the Northampton Saint Patrick’s Assoc. She also chairs United Way of the Franklin & Hampshire Region’s annual Ski United fundraising event.

“Kim has proven to be a true community volunteer and supporter of many local organizations,” said Matt Garrity, president and CEO of Florence Bank. “She is well-deserving of the Community Support Award.”

Adam Quenneville Roofing and Siding Welcomes Morgan Bennett

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Daily News

Morgan Bennett

SOUTH HADLEY — Adam Quenneville Roofing and Siding (AQRS), a locally owned residential and commercial roofing and siding company, recently welcomed Morgan Bennett as Business Development director. In this role, she will support the company in continuing to grow and develop its customer base and geographic reach.

Prior to joining the AQRS team, Bennett worked for 10 years at Holyoke Medical Center, and she also worked at WWLP 22 News in Springfield. Her past roles have helped shape her approach to customer engagement and given her notable experience supporting individuals within the community.

The recently created role at AQRS attracted Bennett because of her level of comfort and passion for engaging with customers. Her personal mission is to develop a strong understanding of the needs of both the residential and commercial customer base and deliver effective solutions.

“When I met Morgan, I knew she was what I was looking for in this role,” company owner Adam Quenneville said. “My company prides itself on referrals and reputation; in some cases, we’ve done the roof on the home of three different generations in a family. When I saw that creating and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders in the community was at the forefront of Morgan’s past roles — and, quite frankly her DNA — I knew she was going to be a great addition to the team.”

The Business Development director position incorporates a variety of responsibilities. Among them, Bennett will represent the company at local events, discuss options and guide customers through the decision-making process, work with industry partners to strengthen customer knowledge about the industry, assist individuals in learning so they can make the right roofing or siding decision to support their needs, and work with organizations to continue to pay forward community giving.

“I chose to join the exceptional team at Adam Quenneville Roofing & Siding for a handful of reasons,” said Bennett, who is currently enrolled at South New Hampshire University pursuing a degree in marketing and business. “If I’m totally truthful, I guess growing up hearing the 1-800-NEW-ROOF jingle over and over, I just had to see what AQRS was all about. Of course, I joke, but in all seriousness, working for a company with such incredible brand recognition was important because I intend to make a positive impact in our community with both existing and new customers, as well as organizations in need, and I couldn’t do that without the strength of the company’s reputation.”

Downtown Amherst Summer Concert Series Runs Through July

By
Daily News

AMHERST — The Amherst Business Improvement District (BID) announced the 2024 summer music series lineup on the four Fridays in July from 5 to 9 p.m. on the Town Common.

July 5 features SPF-4 and Harvest and Rust, July 12 brings Grayson Ty and TapRoots, July 19 is Jazz in July, and July 26 features the No Nos and LeFever.

This summer concert series is not only a community-building and arts and cultural event but one of a dozen annual events put on by the BID that contribute to the economic vitality of downtown Amherst.

“We encourage all to explore all that our dynamic downtown has to offer before and after the concerts,” the BID notes. “Support local shops, retail, and experiences, and enjoy a taste of our global gastronomy by sitting down to dinner al fresco or getting your favorite meal to go and bringing it to the Common to enjoy. In addition, Downtown Amherst’s signature new local market, Aster + Pine, is offering picnic charcuterie and snacks baskets for each summer concert. Stop into their beautiful brick-and-mortar location on North Pleasant Street or pre-order only at asterandpinemarket.com.”

The underwriters of this year’s summer concert series are Encharter Insurance and the Massachusetts Cultural Council, whose support enables the BID to bring these free concerts to the community.

Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts Awards Annual Scholarship

By
Daily News

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts scholarship committee announced that its 2024 scholarship has been awarded to Shea Coe, a recent graduate of Taconic High School in Pittsfield.

Coe, the daughter of Andrea Terry and Jeffrey Coe, plans to attend Salem State University in the fall to study graphic design. She is the first Ad Club scholarship recipient in recent memory from Berkshire County intending to major in graphic design.

Coe was recently presented with a $1,000 check from the Advertising Club at Taconic High School. In addition to her exceptional academic record and extracurricular volunteerism, both factors in her selection, her summer job made a distinct impression on scholarship committee members: she cuts and stacks firewood at Williams Lumber in Lee. “Shea isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty and do the hard work — an attitude that will serve her well in life,” said David Cecchi, scholarship committee chairman.

The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts supports future generations of creative professionals with an annual merit-based scholarship awarded to a deserving student from Western Mass. intent on pursuing a career in the advertising, communications, marketing, graphic design, or affiliated industries.

Free Small Business Legal Clinic Now Accepting Applications

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Western New England University Small Business Legal Clinic is accepting applications from entrepreneurs and small-business owners seeking legal assistance for the fall 2024 semester.

Under faculty supervision, law students assist clients with legal issues, including choice of entity, employment policies, contract drafting, regulatory compliance, and intellectual-property issues relating to trademark applications and copyright. This is a free service available to local businesses that might not have the resources to obtain such services, and has assisted more than 500 small businesses since it opened.

“The clinic is a great resource for entrepreneurs who lack the finances to retain an attorney,” said Robert Statchen, associate clinical professor of Law. “By using the clinic’s services, businesses can avoid problems by getting legal issues addressed early and correctly. It also provides students with a great opportunity to get real-world experience.”

The clinic asks small-business owners to submit their applications by Aug. 1. Applications received after that date will be considered if additional resources are available. Students will begin providing services in September.

For more information, call the Small Business Legal Clinic at (413) 782-1469 or email Marie Fletcher, Clinical Programs administrator, at [email protected].

Springfield Chamber Players to Perform 2024-25 Season at 52 Sumner

By
Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Chamber Players (SCP) and the management of the nonprofit Springfield Performing Arts Ventures Inc. (SPAV) will partner to present the Springfield Chamber Players’ 2024-25 season at 52 Sumner, the new performance venue at 52 Sumner Ave., Springfield. The Springfield Chamber Players plan to present a six-concert series at 52 Sumner, which will launch in late October.

“52 Sumner will be the new home for the Springfield Chamber Players,” SCP Chair Beth Welty announced. “Earlier this year, our musicians had a walk-through of the facility, played their instruments to test the acoustics, and toured the neighborhood. We all agreed that 52 Sumner is an ideal locale for chamber music. It offers flexible seating plans, the opportunity to provide our guests with food and drink, sufficient parking, and easy access to Interstate 91. We will continue to perform at other venues throughout the region, but we are very excited to call 52 Sumner our new home.”

Daniel McKellick, chair of SPAV, added that “we see 52 Sumner as a vibrant performing-arts center featuring all types of performing arts. Having the Springfield Chamber Players as one of our anchors will help us increase visibility on the Western Massachusetts culture and arts scene and add to the portfolio of diverse offerings in programming we strive for.”

Mark Auerbach, SCP publicist, said the Springfield Chamber Players concert series will include three classical chamber-music programs. These concerts will showcase the talents and versatility of the musicians, who also perform with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra.

“The concert series include classical music, modern music interpreted by classical ensembles, and well-known pop music performed with a classical twist,” Auerbach noted. “The Springfield Chamber Players’ popular program for children, ‘Johnny Appleseed,’ is on the performance roster, along with a Celtic concert organized by flutist Ellen Redman. The sixth concert brings the music of Broadway to 52 Sumner with a classical twist.”

Tickets will go on sale in late summer, with first priority given to members of the Springfield Chamber Players and 52 Sumner. Click here to join the Springfield Chamber Players mailing list.

Congressman Neal Announces $960,000 Earmark for Easthampton Water Infrastructure

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Daily News

EASTHAMPTON — On Monday, U.S. Rep. Richard Neal joined Easthampton Mayor Nicole LaChapelle to announce a $960,000 earmark to invest in water infrastructure upgrades along Route 10 in Easthampton.

The allocation was made possible through congressionally directed spending from the Department of Interior and the Environmental Protection Agency. Neal included funding for this project in the FY 2024 spending bill that was signed into law by President Biden on March 9.

“As a member of Congress, I take great pride in the responsibility that we have in overseeing the expenditure of the public purse,” Neal said. “That is why I am pleased to have secured funding for a project that will have a prominent impact on the Easthampton community, providing much-needed upgrades to the water infrastructure that will directly benefit the city’s business corridor.”

Undersized and aging underground utilities currently provide water and sewer services to the Northampton Street business district in Easthampton. The city of Easthampton has undertaken the design of a project to replace these aging utilities, which will ensure adequate domestic supply, fire flow, and sanitary sewer service for this area for generations. This project will also support commercial and housing developments in Easthampton’s 40R smart growth zone.

This project was also the benefactor of funds awarded to local governments under the American Rescue Plan (ARPA), much of which was drafted in the Ways and Means Committee under Neal’s chairmanship. Approximately $270,000 in ARPA funding was allocated toward the design phase of upgrading the water infrastructure along Route 10.

“This award shows how smart growth development contributes to a sustainable local economy. Today’s announcement makes possible the full development of an approved mixed-use project that brings jobs and housing while dovetailing into state pedestrian road improvements,” LaChapelle said. “Congressman Neal’s leadership in securing both ARPA and CDS funds unlocks the full development potential in Easthampton’s highway business corridor.”

ArchitectureEL Awarded Two-year, On-call Contract for Holyoke Housing Authority

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Daily News

EAST LONGMEADOW — ArchitectureEL Inc. (AEL) has been awarded on-call architect contract for the Holyoke Housing Authority for a two-year period. The firm also continues to fulfill its obligations as the current on-call architect for the city of Holyoke and Holyoke Public Schools.

ArchitectureEL Inc. provides professional design services on a wide range of projects, from renovating existing buildings to designing new. The firm has significant experience in accessibility, historic preservation, educational, and commercial design, as well as both private and multi-family residential development.

AEL has developed strong local connections and provided services for the city of Holyoke and Holyoke Public schools as their on-call architect for the past two years, completing a roof and skylight replacement for the DPW, a roof and skylight replacement for the City Hall Annex, a roof replacement for the Holyoke Children’s Museum and Volleyball Hall of Fame, heating upgrades for the McMahon VRF, historical renovations on the City Council chambers located at City Hall, HVAC system replacements in the city’s elementary schools.

“We are honored to have been chosen to continue this important work in the city of Holyoke,” said Kevin Rothschild-Shea, owner and principal architect. “We look forward to expanding our relationship with the city of Holyoke and our services to the Holyoke Housing Authority to help maintain the infrastructure of this vibrant city.”

Nominations Sought for Healthcare Heroes Class of 2024

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Daily News

SPRINGFIELD — In the spring of 2017, BusinessWest and its sister publication, the Healthcare News, created a new and exciting recognition program called Healthcare Heroes. It was launched with the theory that there are heroes working across this region’s wide, deep, and all-important healthcare sector, and that there was no shortage of fascinating stories to tell and individuals and groups to honor. That theory has certainly been validated.

But there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of heroes whose stories we still need to tell. And that’s where you come in.

Nominations for the class of 2024 are due Monday, July 29, and we encourage you to get involved and help recognize someone you consider to be a hero in the community we call Western Mass. in one (or more) of these eight categories:

• Patient/Resident/Client Care Provider;
• Health/Wellness Administrator;
• Emerging Leader;
• Community Health;
• Health Educator;
• Innovation in Health/Wellness;
• Collaboration in Health/Wellness; and
• Lifetime Achievement.

Nominations can be submitted at businesswest.com/healthcareheroes/nominations. For more information, call Melissa Hallock, Marketing and Events director, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or email [email protected].

UMass Amherst Graduate Engineering Programs Earn High Marks from U.S. News

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Daily News

AMHERST — UMass Amherst graduate engineering programs place among the best in the country in the U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings for 2024, announced last week. UMass Amherst is the only public university in New England to place in the top 50, and most of its College of Engineering doctoral degree programs also made significant gains over last year’s rankings.

Each year, U.S. News ranks more than 800 institutions with a variety of graduate programs in six prominent fields: business, nursing, education, engineering, law, and medicine. The Best Graduate Schools rankings for 15 other academic disciplines were published in April.

Overall, the College of Engineering moved up seven spots from last year to reach the top 25%, tying with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and the University of Florida in the 48th spot.

Nine engineering specialty areas that offer doctoral degrees rank between 35 and 69 for 2024. Notably, four engineering specialties — chemical, industrial, computer, and materials — place in the top 40. Chemical engineering ranks 35th, followed by industrial at 36th; computer at 38th, up six spots from 2023; and materials at 40th, which climbed significantly from its ranking in the 57th spot last year.

Environmental engineering ranks 41st, civil 48th, and electrical 53rd. Other specialty areas that also place higher this year include mechanical at 56th, up five spots, and biomedical at 69th, which improves 10 spots from 2023.

This year’s rankings were based on U.S. News survey responses from 199 engineering doctoral degree programs between fall 2023 and early 2024. U.S. News compares schools on their research activity, faculty resources, academic achievements of entering students, and assessments by other engineering schools and employers.

Massachusetts Unemployment Holds Essentially Steady in May

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Daily News

BOSTON — The state’s May total unemployment rate was 3.0%, a 0.1% increase from the revised April estimate of 2.9%, the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development announced. The Massachusetts unemployment rate was 1.0% lower than the national rate of 4.0% reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Over the year, the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was down by 0.3%.

The labor force increased by an estimated 13,600 from the revised estimate of 3,768,100 in April, with 7,500 residents more employed and 6,000 more residents unemployed over the month. The state’s labor-force participation rate — the total number of residents 16 or older who worked or were unemployed and actively sought work in the last four weeks — increased 0.2% over the month to 65.3%. Compared to May 2023, the labor-force participation rate also increased 0.2% over the year.

The BLS preliminary job estimates indicate Massachusetts gained 4,200 jobs in May. This follows April’s revised loss of 3,800 jobs. The largest over-the-month private-sector job gains were in leisure and hospitality, education and health services, and construction. Employment now stands at 3,733,900. Massachusetts gained 670,400 jobs since the employment low in April 2020.

From May 2023 to May 2024, BLS estimates Massachusetts gained 21,200 jobs. The largest over-the-year gains occurred in education and health services, leisure and hospitality, and construction.