BusinessWest Staff, Author at BusinessWest

GREENFIELD — Ja’Duke Inc. owners Kimberly Williams and Nicholas Waynelovich announced their intent to expand their childcare, driving-instruction, and performing-arts program through the purchase and renovation of 270 Main St. in Greenfield. Formerly occupied by Greenfield Community College, this 25,000-square-foot facility has been vacant since 2020 and has remained unused even after Dave Mell purchased the building in January 2023.

If approved, Ja’Duke plans to utilize the 270 Main St. site as a satellite location to its Turners Falls facility located at 110 Industrial Blvd., which currently houses seven of Ja’Duke’s businesses. After opening in 2004, Ja’Duke Inc. has grown to include driver’s education through the Ja’Duke Driving School, 75 weekly performance-art classes under Ja’Duke Center for the Performing Arts, 14 early-education and childcare classrooms through Ja’Duke Preschool, and dozens of performances hosted annually in Franklin County’s largest theater, Ja’Duke Theater. Additionally, owners Williams and Waynelovich operate Ja’Duke Backdrops, with an on-site coffee shop, Ja’Duke Café, and ice-cream shop, Ja’Duke Scoops.

Williams and Waynelovich plan to focus the Greenfield site’s programming on childcare, driving, and performing-arts education.

“It’s our vision to revive this building and bring back the educational component that once thrived there,” Williams said. “We currently serve hundreds of families in Franklin County through our educational services offered in Turners Falls. As we expand our services to Greenfield, we are excited about the potential of reaching even more children and families by providing childcare, performing-arts classes, and driver’s education in a very central and accessible location.”

The 270 Main St. site would house 14 classrooms, accommodating 150 new childcare slots per day serving children ages 0-5. The basement floor will host Ja’Duke Driving School offices, which hopes of serving hundreds of new Franklin County drivers ranging from teens to adults. According to Williams, the third floor will hold Ja’Duke’s performing-arts classrooms. The proposed project would create at least 30 new jobs and significantly increase foot traffic in the downtown district.

JaDuke’s expansion will be good for Greenfield, Franklin County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jessye Deane said. “JaDuke is famous for providing high-quality education and building community, both of which will benefit Greenfield’s downtown. Kim, Nick, and the Ja’Duke team have a long history of success, and we look forward to celebrating this expansion and the foot traffic it will bring to Greenfield’s downtown.”

Ja’Duke plans to present to the Zoning Board on Thursday, May 16, with the purchase and sale pending finalization in early June. Williams hopes to launch Greenfield-based programming in early 2025 once renovations are complete.

Brooke Barre of Phillips Insurance Agency Earns Prestigious CPCU Designation

By BusinessWest Staff May 10, 2024

Brooke Barre

CHICOPEE — Phillips Insurance Agency Inc. announced that Brooke Barre, senior account management in the Commercial Insurance department, has earned the prestigious CPCU (chartered property casualty underwriter) designation.

The CPCU is considered the most valuable credential in the industry for demonstrating insurance and risk-management skills. The CPCU program is a multi-year program focusing on in-depth risk-management analysis of complex insurance risks.

Barre will attend the CPCU induction ceremonies this November at the Coronado Springs resort in Orlando, Fla. A graduate of Bridgewater State University, she joined Phillips Insurance in 2020.

Real-estate Licensing Course Starts June 3

By BusinessWest Staff May 10, 2024

SPRINGFIELD — Beginning June 3, the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley will host a 40 hour, 14-class, sales licensing course to help individuals prepare for the Massachusetts real-estate salesperson license exam. The course will be completed on July 11.

Tuition costs $425 and includes the book and materials. For an application, call the Realtor Assoc. of Pioneer Valley at (413) 785-1328 or visit www.rapv.com.

Florence Bank Donates $100,000 to Iron Horse Music Hall

FLORENCE — Florence Bank recently announced it has donated $100,000 to the Iron Horse Music Hall, supporting a $750,000 capital campaign for renovations and updates to the well-loved music venue in downtown Northampton, which reopens on May 15.

Chris Freeman, executive director of the Parlor Room Collective in Northampton, which purchased the Iron Horse last fall and has been updating it since, said the bank’s gift will help fund ongoing work to the venue at 20 Center St.

He explained that the collective has already expanded the Iron Horse into a storefront next door that formerly housed a Christian meeting space, and is in the process of moving the bar into that new space, along with 10 bathrooms. The bathrooms in the basement of the venue will be updated and reserved for visiting artists only; the remainder of that downstairs space will be remodeled to be “more artist-friendly,” and artists alone will be able to access the area, Freeman said.

Other work being undertaken at the music hall includes the installation of a new sound system, lighting, flooring, and an HVAC unit for cleaner, fresher air.

“Florence Bank is a big community supporter. They were our first corporate ask,” Freeman said, noting that the Parlor Room Collective is running the capital campaign for the Iron Horse through the bank. “Florence Bank understands our mission, our vision for what the Iron Horse can become. We’re so grateful they stepped up in such a huge way.”

He added that, when the Parlor Room became a nonprofit, it leaned into Florence Bank for funds to start an open-mic series, a program that has since become self-sustainable. “Without that early gift from Florence Bank, we wouldn’t have been able to get it started,” he said.

The Parlor Room is a small listening room in Northampton, founded 11 years ago as a facet of the Signature Sounds record label. Freeman was a musician in a band that recorded on the Signature Sounds label in those days, becoming more involved with the Parlor Room after the pandemic. In 2022, the Parlor Room became a nonprofit and is now known as the Parlor Room Collective.

Florence Bank President and CEO Matt Garrity said the Iron Horse has been at the core of the local music scene since its founding in 1979, and the bank is proud to support the Parlor Room Collective’s revival of the venue.

“We value the collective’s mission-based approach to the return of the Iron Horse,” Garrity said. “The Iron Horse has long been a space in which local patrons and musicians from far and wide can celebrate art, music, and community, and we look forward to the return of that energy.”

The Iron Horse is still seeking donations and sponsorships. Learn more at ironhorse.org/revive-the-iron-horse.

“It’s such a fun cause to fundraise for,” Freeman said. “So many people have memories about being at the Iron Horse. It’s an amazing spot. We’re incredibly grateful to the bank and the whole community.”

Strength in Her Story Conference Slated for May 18

SPRINGFIELD — Moms in Power will present the Strength in Her Story Conference on Saturday, May 18 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Macedonia Church, 215 Tinkham Road, Springfield.

The conference aims to be a beacon of hope and inspiration, dedicated to celebrating the resilience, strength, and courage of women navigating through life’s complexities.

“This transformative event is a celebration of your evolution, your rise above trauma, and your journey of redefining who you are in the complexities of life,” said Arlyana Bowie, CEO of Moms in Power. “This event is for all women: the woman finding herself, the women going through a tough season, the daughter, the wife, the single parent, the aunt, the grieving woman, even the matriarchs of our families. Everyone you know has a story, and this conference is about redefining your and celebrating story with a different narrative while recognizing your true strength: your healing, restoration, and purpose. Dive deep into empowering conversations, interactive workshops, and inspiring activities designed to uplift and inspire.”

The $40 ticket includes a brunch buffet, inspirational speaker, dynamic panel discussions, healing workshops, raffles, networking, and more. Click here to register.

“From overcoming challenges to embracing and redefining who you are and all you desire to be, this conference is your opportunity to connect with like-minded women, share your stories, and leave feeling empowered, healed, and restored,” Bowie said. “Join us as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of womanhood.”

Springfield Symphony Chorus to Present Concert in Holyoke on May 11

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Symphony Chorus will give a spring concert, titled “Sing, Praise, Light II,” on Saturday, May 11 at 4 p.m. at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church, 34 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts.

Tickets cost $10, cash only at the door. Doors open at 3:15 p.m. The chorus will perform eclectic choral works based on themes of “Sing, Praise, Light.”

In addition to chorus recitals, the Springfield Symphony Chorus collaborates and performs with the Springfield Symphony Orchestra each concert season. During the 2023-24 concert season, the chorus performed during Holiday Pops and the Fantasias concert in March, and will also perform at the upcoming free Juneteenth concert, all at Springfield Symphony Hall.

Max on Monday Networking Event Slated for May 13

SPRINGFIELD — Max Tavern at the Basketball Hall of Fame will host the seventh Max on Monday networking event on Monday, May 13 from 4 to 6 p.m., offering attendees the opportunity to connect with other professionals while enjoying complimentary hors d’oeuvres. A cash bar will be available for beverages.

At each event, Max on Monday will feature a selection of local businesses. In May, the sponsored businesses will include PeoplesBank, Allied Flooring, Budget Cabinets, Greenstone Landscape, and LAKAY Building and Remodeling. Representatives from these businesses will be able to network with one another and share information about their organizations.

In addition, the event features a local charity. On May 13, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation will be the featured charity. A local artist will also be featured.

For more information about Max on Monday or to register to attend, RSVP to AnnMarie Harding (413) 244-4055 or [email protected].

Celebrating 40 Years of BusinessWest

Cover Story

A Look Back — and Ahead

What’s Changed — and What Hasn’t — in 40 Years

1984. That’s the title of an epic George Orwell novel, written 36 years earlier, that takes a look into the future and describes a world ruled by a televised ‘Big Brother.’

The real 1984 was a thankfully cheerier year. Ronald Reagan won a second term in office, the Boston Celtics won an epic NBA Finals series over the Los Angeles Lakers, gymnasts including Mary Lou Retton and West Springfield’s own Tim Daggett dominated the Summer Olympics in LA, and the Basketball Hall of Fame was soon to open its doors on Springfield’s riverfront.

That May, a new publication first appeared in businesses across the region. It was called the Western Massachusetts Business Journal, and the monthly magazine was something new and completely different — a publication devoted entirely to the region’s business community.

A few years later, the name was shortened to BusinessWest, which was not the only change to have taken place over the past 40 years. The magazine has since added a second issue each month, a strong digital presence, a daily news blog, a podcast, and several annual recognition programs and accompanying events.

Yet, as BusinessWest turns 40, we’ve dedicated this commemorative issue not to the changes that have taken place here, as significant as they are, but on the sweeping changes that have taken place in the workplace and in our business community.

They have included advances in computer technology that have transformed virtually every sector; a few memorable recessions, including one so profound it was called Great; a pandemic that shut down much of the world for months and may have permanently altered the way people work; a slew of state-of-the-art healthcare projects; a dramatic wave of contraction and acquisition in fields ranging from banking to insurance; a continued focus on entrepreneurship; and even brand-new sectors, most notably cannabis, and still-murky developments like artificial intelligence.

These sweeping, profound changes have impacted just about every sector, from education to law to construction, and have altered how we work, where we work, when we work, and even what we wear to work. In short, it’s been an eventful four decades, which has more than justified Publisher John Gormally’s decision to chronicle all of it on the pages of this magazine.

There’s no way to sum all that up in one issue, but we hope the articles below, brought to life by interviews with some of this region’s most prominent business leaders, at least begins to paint the picture of an economy, and region, ever in flux.

In this special section, 40 years of:

Click on each story to read more

or go HERE to view the entire BusinessWest 40th Anniversary issue

Banking

Commercial Development

Construction

Financial Planning

Healthcare

Higher Education

Manufacturing

Nonprofits

Professional Services

Technology

The Workplace

Sip & Shop Event Supporting Christina’s House Happening Today, Rain or Shine

SPRINGFIELD — The Springfield Business Improvement District (BID) isn’t letting a little rain stop an evening of shopping, sipping, and supporting a good cause at its Sip & Shop event today, May 8, from 4 to 7 p.m. Hosted on the covered back patio of 1350 Main St. in downtown Springfield, this event is billed as “an unforgettable experience filled with fabulous finds, delectable treats, live music, and more.”

In the spirit of celebrating women and motherhood, all ticket proceeds from the event will support Christina’s House, a local organization committed to providing shelter, support, and resources to women and children in need. Tickets for the event cost $15 and may be purchased by clicking here.

Highlighting the entrepreneurial spirit of women, all vendors featured at the Sip & Shop are proudly women-owned businesses. From fashion and jewelry to home decor and wellness services and products, attendees can explore a diverse array of offerings while directly supporting female entrepreneurs.

Guests can relax and enjoy a cash bar and indulge in snacks while browsing through the curated selection of products. The event will also feature live music, adding to the festive atmosphere.

“Whether you’re shopping for the perfect Mother’s Day gift or simply treating yourself, the Sip & Shop event offers a unique opportunity to make a difference while indulging in a memorable experience,” the Springfield BID notes. “Don’t miss out on this special occasion to celebrate motherhood, support women-owned businesses, and give back to the community.”

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Promotes Casey Cusson

Casey Cusson

GREENFIELD — Tony Worden, president and CEO of Greenfield Cooperative Bank, announced the promotion of Casey Cusson to vice president, Treasury Management officer.

Cusson will work closely with Jim Alexander, vice president, Government Banking & Treasury Management, on the bank’s municipal and government lending activities. This collaboration will ensure a cohesive approach to serving the financial needs of Greenfield Cooperative Bank’s clients.

Cusson is a seasoned banking professional with seven years of experience in the industry. He joined Greenfield Cooperative Bank in 2017 and previously held the title of vice president, manager of the Shelburne Falls branch.

“We are excited to promote Casey to vice president, Treasury Management officer,” Worden said. “His understanding of our clients’ needs and commitment to providing exceptional service will be invaluable in leading our team to continued growth.”

Pittsfield Cooperative Bank Welcomes Zachary Gundler

Zachary Gundler

PITTSFIELD — Pittsfield Cooperative Bank announced the hiring of Zachary Gundler to its Commercial Lending team as a vice president. He has significant experience in commercial lending, commercial real-estate assessment, credit risk analysis, portfolio management, relationship management, and business development.

Gundler joins the bank after working for the previous 10 years at Berkshire Bank in its Commercial Lending and Business Banking departments. For the last four and a half years, he has been a vice president, Business Banking officer, managing customers with annual revenues ranging from $3 million to $25 million and originating loans up to $3 million.

“Coop Bank is excited to add Zach to our growing team,” CEO J. Jay Anderson said. “He has significant experience in lending, commercial real-estate valuation, relationship management and development, and risk analysis.”

Gundler has a bachelor’a degree in business administration and an MBA from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts (MCLA). He currently serves on the Vermont Banking Assoc. commercial lending committee and previously served on the MCLA alumni board.

Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni to Host Annual Pasta Dinner on May 16

SPRINGFIELD — Hampden District Attorney Anthony Gulluni and his family are inviting the community to their annual pasta dinner on Thursday, May 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ludlow Elks Lodge, located at 69 Chapin St. Tickets will be available at the door for $25 per person or $50 per family.

In addition to a home-cooked meal of homemade pasta, meatballs, sausage and peppers, and desserts, attendees will enjoy live entertainment by local celebrity and former contestant on The Voice, Noah Lis.

Picture This

Picture This

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

A New Era at HCC

Hundreds of Holyoke Community College (HCC) friends, former colleagues, relatives, students, dignitaries, and supporters filled HCC’s Leslie Phillips Theater to capacity on April 19 to celebrate the official installation of George Timmons as the fifth president of HCC, and the first African-American man to hold that position.

Pictured: Timmons embraces Student Senate President Alicia Beaton after she placed the HCC presidential medallion around his neck as Vanessa Smith, interim chair of the HCC board of trustees, and student trustee Barney Garcia look on.

Something to Build On

PeoplesBank is supporting Square One’s capital campaign to build a new, state-of-the-art facility. With early support from the city of Springfield and the Commonwealth, Square One has reacquired the land of its original South End location, which was destroyed by the 2011 tornado, and is looking to build a 26,000-square-foot child and family center.

Square One President and CEO Dawn DiStefano (pictured, second from left) received a check for the first installment of a multi-year, $175,000 pledge from (from left) PeoplesBank CEO Tom Senecal, Cindy Wszolek, and Xiaolei Hua.

Helping Around the House

The senior leadership team at Greenfield Cooperative Bank recently traded their suits for paintbrushes and joined forces with Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity to help put some finishing touches on a new home being built by dozens of community volunteers alongside the future homeowners. This hands-on effort followed a previous commitment of $10,000 from Greenfield Co-op toward the project.

Pictured, from left: Jackie Charron, Jeremy Payson, Kevin Bowler, Lisa Kmetz, Mary Rawls, Jane Wolfe, and Michael Turley.

Agenda

Agenda

Tri-State SHRM Conference

May 13-15: The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) announced that the Tri-State SHRM Conference, the largest human-resources (HR) conference in New England, will take place at Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn. The conference aims to unmask the changing face of HR by providing HR leaders with the necessary tools to stay ahead of the curve. The multi-day event will feature keynote speakers, educational breakout sessions, interactive games, multiple business networking opportunities, and an expo showcasing the latest HR technology and trends. The conference will cover a variety of topics, including “Building a FOMO Workplace Culture,” “SEAT of Success: How Top Performers Never Settle for Balcony Seats,” and “Beyond Productivity: the Unseen Risks of Employee Stress and Burnout in the Workplace.” There will be 24 sessions available in total, featuring more than 27 speakers. Register online at tristateshrm.com.

Workers’ Compensation Seminar at Royal Law

May 14: Proposed changes in workers’ compensation laws aim to hold employers to a higher standard, as well as increase employers’ potential liability. At a seminar from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Royal Law Firm, these changes and recent legislation regarding workers’ compensation will be discussed in detail to ensure employers are aware of the consequences of not following new practices. Attorney Trevor Brice will discuss the recent changes and potential upheaval in the workers’ compensation world. The firm is located at 33 Elliot St., Springfield. The cost is $30 per person. Registration is required, and seating will be limited. Contact Heather Child at [email protected] to register or with any questions. Checks should be made payable to the Royal Law Firm.

Designer Showhouse at Cassilis Farm

June 1-30: Construct Inc., a nonprofit provider of affordable housing and supportive services to residents in 15 towns across the Southern Berkshires, announced its first Designer Showhouse fundraising exhibition. Slated for the entire month of June, the Designer Showhouse will highlight the elegant, creative work of more than a dozen local and regional designers, as well as landscape architects and visual artists. Each exhibitor has been assigned a space at Cassilis Farm, an iconic, 27-acre, Gilded Age estate that Construct, along with the New Marlborough Housing Development Committee, purchased at auction with the intention of renovating and converting it into 11 much-needed affordable-housing apartments. The Designer Showhouse pays homage to the theme “Nature in the Berkshires” and displays the transformative, custom work of award-winning designers, whose areas of focus range from real-estate staging and interiors to styling and iconic textile design. Room themes range from a swan nursery inspired by a local swan rescue area to a picnic-under-the-stars nod to Tanglewood to an equestrian-heavy library drawing inspiration from the estate’s former existence as a hackney horse-breeding farm. The Showhouse will be a timed, ticketed walk-through and will be open to visitors through five weekends in June. Timed tickets cost $40 per person and can be purchased online only, at constructberkshires.org/construct-designer-showhouse.

Free Shred Days

June 8, 22: bankESB invites customers and members of the community to two free shred days at local offices. Events will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. (or until the truck is full) on the following dates and at locations: Saturday, June 8 at 770 Main St., Agawam; and Saturday, June 22 at 241 Northampton St., Easthampton (two trucks at this event). No appointment is necessary. Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, canceled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. A professional document destruction company will be on site in the bank’s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per person.

40 Under Forty Gala

June 20: BusinessWest will celebrate the 18th annual 40 Under Forty at the MassMutual Center in Springfield with fine food, music, networking, and the presentation of the class of 2024, profiled in the April 29 issue of BusinessWest and at businesswest.com. The 40 Under Forty sponsors include presenting sponsor PeoplesBank and partner sponsors the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst, Live Nation, Mercedes-Benz of Springfield, and Mercy Medical Center/Trinity Health. The event will also feature the announcement of the 10th annual Alumni Achievement Award, presented by Health New England. Tickets cost $125 each. To reserve tickets, visit businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty.

Hooplandia

June 21-23: Registration is now open for Hooplandia, the second annual 3×3 basketball tournament and festival, at www.hooplandia.com. The three-day event includes levels of play for all ages and divisions. Hooplandia launched in 2023. Taking place in the heart of Greater Springfield, the birthplace of basketball, the event is hosted by Eastern States Exposition (ESE) in West Springfield and the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield. Most games will be played on the ESE grounds, with special games held at the Hall of Fame. Seventy-five basketball courts will be set up to accommodate more than 650 games played by approximately 2,100 participants of all ages. Divisions of play have been created to provide an all-inclusive environment for players of all ages and playing abilities. The diverse divisions include young girls, boys, women, men, high-school-level, college-level, OGs, veterans, and more. Players are invited to build teams of four, create their own unique team name and uniforms, and register at www.hooplandia.com. Team fees range according to age, and children in the under-8 category are free of charge. Hooplandia will once again partner with Boys and Girls Clubs throughout the region as its designated philanthropic partner, providing $10 from every paid team registration to support the mission and programs of the clubs. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For inquiries, email [email protected].

Yidstock

July 11-14: Tickets are now on sale for Yidstock: the Festival of New Yiddish Music. Now in its 12th year, Yidstock brings the best in klezmer and new Yiddish music to the stage at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst. Highlights this year will include the Klezmatics, Frank London, Eleanor Reissa, Judy Bressler, Daniel Kahn, and many more. Concert passes are available and include admission to all concerts and the two dance workshops. Individual tickets are also available for purchase for those who can only attend for part of the weekend. This year, livestream concert passes will allow friends from afar to experience Yidstock from the comfort of their homes. These passes only include access to the seven concerts; they do not include access to talks, workshops, or the film screening. Visit yiddishbookcenter.org/yidstock for more information and to purchase tickets.

People on the Move

People on the Move

Doug Anderson

David Glidden, president and CEO of Liberty Bank, and the bank’s board of directors jointly announced that Doug Anderson was unanimously elected chairman of the board at its March meeting. The election of Anderson comes after the unexpected passing of longtime Chairman Mark Gingras on March 7. Gingras served as Liberty’s board chairman since 2007 and board member since 2001. Anderson’s role as a Liberty Bank corporator and board member began in April 2018. During that time, he has served on the credit risk, audit, compensation, and governance committees, and most recently as chair of the credit risk committee. He brings decades of diverse leadership experience in banking, finance, management, and operations to the role of chairman. His extensive background includes senior executive roles as president of the former Savings Bank of Manchester (SBM) until 2004 and chairman, president, and CEO of the former Open Solutions. He spent 14 years at Unisys, an international technology company, and served on the board of directors for the former New Alliance Bancshares Inc. Beyond Liberty’s boardroom, Anderson, a graduate of the University of Connecticut, has been a dedicated and generous community partner. This includes his philanthropic support and board service for many organizations and causes, such as the Connecticut Science Center, SBM Charitable Foundation, Manchester Community College Foundation, and Connecticut Foodshare. He also served as chairman of the Liberty Bank Foundation.

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UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced new leadership for its board of directors. Jacqui Watrous has been elected as board chair, Ruth Yanka as board vice chair, and Jeremy Bentley as board secretary. Watrous has served on the UMassFive board of directors for more than seven years, including most recently as board vice chair. She holds a BBA in finance and an MBA from the Isenberg School of Management at UMass Amherst. Now retired, she previously worked at UMass Amherst for more than 30 years, having held a variety of positions in the finance and systems fields, including most recently the role of executive director of Administrative Systems in Finance. Yanka has volunteered on UMassFive’s board for more than 12 years, serving in many capacities, including board member and secretary. She holds a master’s degree in program administration from UMass Amherst and has served on the board of many nonprofit organizations in a variety of positions, from member to treasurer to president. Her work history responsibilities have always included operations, budget, and personnel. She currently holds the role of executive director, A&F Operations in Administration and Finance at UMass Amherst. Bentley first joined the UMassFive board of directors in 2022, having previously served as a volunteer on the credit union’s asset and liability management committee when he moved to the area after completing his Ph.D. in accounting from Cornell University. He currently serves as a research foundation director for the Institute of Management Accountants and in multiple positions with the American Accounting Assoc. He is also the Richard Dieter & Susan Dieter faculty fellow and an associate professor at UMass Amherst, where he teaches financial and managerial accounting and examines how accounting systems change the way people think about and report on their performance. With this transition in board leadership, Robert Harrison ends a decade-long tenure in the role of UMassFive board chair. He will continue serving as a board member of the credit union.

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Eunice Bragg

American International College (AIC) announced the appointment of Eunice Bragg as vice president for Institutional Advancement. As an accomplished fundraiser and relationship leader, Bragg brings valuable expertise in building relationships, inspiring team culture, and employing metrics to meet fundraising goals for the institution. In her new position, Bragg will oversee fundraising and stewardship relationship initiatives and will be responsible for strengthening engagement with AIC alumni and community partners. She will play a vital role in the campaign to restore Courniotes Hall, the health-sciences building damaged by fire last summer after a lightning strike. After earning a bachelor’s degree at Taylor University and completing her master’s degree in strategic fundraising and philanthropy at Bay Path University, Bragg served as director of Development at the Discovery Center (now RE-Center) in Hartford, Conn. She then assumed the role of director of Annual Giving at Hampden Hall Country Day School in New Haven, Conn. Returning to her alma mater, she became director of Major and Planned Gifts at Bay Path. She joins AIC from Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where she most recently served as director of Development and Leadership Gifts.

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Whittlesey announced that its CEO and managing partner, Drew Andrews, has been included in Forbes’ inaugural “America’s Top 200 CPAs” list. Curated by Forbes’ editorial team, this list features the top CPAs in public practice across the U.S. The rigorous selection process involves independent nominations and recommendations from various CPA societies and associations. Candidates are evaluated on numerous criteria, including certifications and credentials, years of experience, industry specialization, professional achievements, community involvement, thought leadership, diversity of client base, ethical and regulatory compliance, and innovation and technology adoption. Andrews has been leading Whittlesey since 2008 and has significantly influenced its trajectory. He has grown the firm’s revenue to more than triple its original size and expanded its operations to include three offices throughout Connecticut and Massachusetts. His innovative approach has notably advanced the firm’s capabilities and strengthened client relationships. In addition, he serves a select clientele. His dedication extends beyond corporate management to personal mentorship and community involvement. He actively develops talented professionals within the firm, providing guidance and support as a mentor and coach. He is committed to philanthropy and has held prominent leadership positions on boards of several local nonprofit, business, religious, and charitable organizations, contributing significantly to community-enrichment efforts.

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Gilbert Nieves

Community Bank announced that Gilbert Nieves has been promoted to district manager. In his new role, Nieves will oversee strategy and operations for branches in Vermont and Massachusetts, ensuring administration of the bank’s financial goals and objectives, including business development. He will also be responsible for staff training, coaching, and professional development for continued excellence in customer service and operations. With more than two decades of experience in the financial industry, Nieves first joined Community Bank in 2019 as branch manager of the Springfield location. In that role, he oversaw daily office operations, including sales and customer-service activities, to ensure operational efficiency, integrity, and adherence to policies and procedures. Prior to that, he served the Springfield community in other banking and financial roles, including vice president and branch manager at Webster Bank and assistant city treasurer for the city of Springfield. Outside of the office, Nieves is an active member of the community, serving his congregation as a Bible instructor and volunteering at Springfield Public Schools. In addition, he facilitates financial-literacy workshops at the Gándara Center, as well as first-time homebuying seminars at Way Finders. He is also a member of the Springfield Chamber of Commerce and Business Network International’s Springfield chapter. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Universidad Metropolitana in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

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Fontaine Bros. Inc. announced the addition of Jason Boudreau as project executive and Mark Fulton as senior superintendent. They bring more than 40 years of combined experience working together on complex building projects throughout Western and Central Mass., Connecticut, and beyond, making them a valuable addition to the Fontaine team. Boudreau and Fulton have been working together for more than 20 years. They have successfully delivered work for notable clients such as Amherst College, Baystate Medical Center, Berkshire Medical Center, UMass Amherst, Williams College, and many others, and earned certifications from the American Society for Health Care Engineering and the International Code Council for Tall Mass Timber Buildings.

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Rachel Dionne

Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) announced that Rachel Dionne, assistant vice president and credit risk officer, has joined the board of directors of Providence Ministries. PNCU, a full-service community credit union, is committed to meeting community needs and fostering growth. The organization emphasizes community engagement through corporate leadership and volunteerism. Dionne is dedicated to community service. Her volunteer work includes more than a half-decade on the board of trustees for Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School, membership on the school’s finance committee, involvement in a youth ministry group, service on the Southampton Finance Committee, and as an eucharistic minister at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Church in Westfield. She now adds the Providence Ministries board membership to her list of contributions. With nearly 35 years of experience in accounting and finance, Dionne joined PNCU in 2017. In her role, she analyzes complex commercial financial information, oversees commercial lending policies, and manages loan administration, loan servicing, and credit teams. She is a two-time graduate of American International College (AIC) with degrees in accounting and nonprofit management.

•••••

The Center for EcoTechnology (CET), an environmental nonprofit dedicated to advancing just and resilient climate solutions, announced the appointment of Julia Riseman as its inaugural director of Philanthropic Investments. With her experience and commitment to climate-change mitigation, Riseman will help accelerate CET’s growth and impact during this decisive decade for decarbonization. Riseman brings a wealth of expertise in development strategy and relationship building, honed through her years of dedication to causes throughout the U.S. and Canada. Through consulting, she has helped organizations raise more than $350 million through her consulting firm, Riseman Consulting, and during her 14 years at the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, providing consulting services to grant-supported recipients. Prior to becoming a consultant, she was the Development director at the Center School, an independent school in Amherst, and she co-founded two nonprofit organizations, Friends of Northampton Trails and Health in Harmony, an international environmental organization working with local communities to save rainforests in Brazil, Madagascar, and Indonesia. Her strategic vision and commitment to CET’s mission is expected to propel the organization into a new era of expansion and influence. As director of Philanthropic Investments, Riseman will be instrumental in cultivating partnerships, securing funding opportunities, and fostering connections with stakeholders to fund targeted projects and further CET’s impact across a dozen states. Her leadership will play a pivotal role in advancing the organization’s strategic goals and expanding its reach across the country.

Company Notebook

Company Notebook

Gateway City Arts Sells Complex to LightHouse Holyoke

HOLYOKE — Gateway City Arts (GCA) announced it has signed a purchase and sale agreement with LightHouse Holyoke for the transfer of the three-building arts complex at 92 Race St. in Holyoke. LightHouse is a competency-based middle and high school for self-directed learning. It first opened in Holyoke in 2015 and began a collaboration with Holyoke Public Schools in 2017, and now has partnerships with six public districts. The move offers a significant opportunity to expand its existing programs. The new facility will feature similar non-traditional learning spaces as those currently existing at LightHouse, presently just down the block at 208 Race St., including a maker space, music studio, and recording studio, which have already been instrumental in nurturing creativity and inspiration among students who may not have previously enjoyed school. Plans for the three-building, 40,000-square-foot facility include a Production Academy integrated into the two on-site performance spaces, the 100-person-capacity Divine Theater, and the much larger 500-person-capacity concert venue, creating scaffolded training and internship opportunities for young people to learn the many skills associated with the entertainment and event-production industry, from lighting and sound to artist management and beyond. Similarly, the café will reopen as a public restaurant, with integrated courses and internships in all aspects of running a café, leading to paid work and future career opportunities. The facility also hosts an 8,000-square-foot maker space that will continue on as a community maker space, complete with a wood shop and ceramic studio, both hosting classes and workspaces for LightHouse students and accessible to the larger community as well.

Community Bank Plans to Expand Branch Presence

DEWITT, N.Y. — Community Bank announced a strategic plan to expand its branch presence in select markets throughout 2024 and 2025, including two new branch locations in the New England region. The new branches will include an additional location in Springfield, as well as the bank’s first physical branch in New Hampshire, having broken into that market with a commercial banking presence in 2023. The bank’s current presence in New England includes 28 branches throughout Vermont and Springfield. This announcement comes as newly appointed President and CEO Dimitar Karaivanov officially steps into his role this year and begins to execute his strategic vision for the bank. As Community Bank expands into promising markets with strong potenial for growth, it is reimagining the customer in-branch experience with clean, modern designs that encourage customer and banker collaboration, local community tie-ins, and staff that can handle a wide array of financial needs. The bank will bring a full suite of consumer, business, and municipal banking products and services, including no-closing-cost mortgage options, business loans and lines of credit, and competitive CD offerings. The move to establish additional branch locations in New England is a substantial investment that will allow the bank to better serve clients and aid in local economic development by creating new jobs, contributing to community efforts, and fostering financial stability. In addition to expanding in New England, Community Bank will continue to grow its branch presence throughout New York’s Western, Central, and Capital regions, as well as throughout Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania.

Summit House Wealth Partners Recognized by Forbes

SOUTH HADLEY — Summit House Wealth Partners, a private wealth-advisory practice with Ameriprise Financial in South Hadley, was named to the list of “Best-in-State Wealth Management Teams” published by Forbes. The list recognizes financial advisors and their teams who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business. The rankings are based on data provided by thousands of the nation’s most productive advisors and their teams. Summit House Wealth Partners was chosen based on assets under management, industry experience, compliance record, and best practices in its practice and approach to working with clients. Summit House Wealth Partners is led by Stephen Duval, CFP. The team also includes financial advisors Ed Boscher, Mike Otto, and Justin Osowiecki, and support staff Debra Whalen, James Lucey, Matthew Mitchell, Patricia Belanger, Jennifer Gray, Morgan Szczygiel, and Nicole Old. They have collectively served the South Hadley community since 1992.

Goodwill Industries Receives Grants for Job Skill Programs

PITTSFIELD — Goodwill Industries of the Berkshires and Southern Vermont announced it has received $8,500 in grants from Berkshire Bank, Greylock Federal Credit Union, and MountainOne Bank to support its Soar for Success employability skills program. The nonprofit social-services organization received an additional $2,500 from Greylock Federal Credit Union toward promotion and other costs associated with its annual meeting in October. Goodwill’s Soar for Success program focuses on job training in custodial skills, customer service, and employability skills guidance for individuals preparing for job interviews, as well as providing interview and work attire. The program is offered free of charge to all Berkshire County residents. Services are provided at Goodwill’s career centers in Pittsfield and North Adams and online. Goodwill sells donated clothes and other household items at a discounted price to aid in funding training and educational programs for individuals seeking employment.

Comcast Delivers Gig Speeds to Xfinity Mobile Customers

PHILADELPHIA — Xfinity Mobile and Comcast Business Mobile devices can now connect to millions of new Xfinity Mobile hotspots and receive internet speeds over WiFi up to 1 gigabit per second. By delivering a faster connection over Xfinity’s WiFi network, Comcast is helping ensure customers can stream, game, chat, download, and surf wherever they are. Today, 90% of the mobile data traffic on Xfinity Mobile devices travels over WiFi, not cellular. With more than 23 million WiFi hotspots giving customers a speed boost, Xfinity Mobile aims to deliver a better experience to support data-intensive applications when traditional cellular networks can’t keep up. Comcast has invested more than $20 billion over the past five years to upgrade and expand the Xfinity network and introduce new, innovative features like WiFi Boost to support the constantly increasing number of connected devices consumers use both inside and outside of the home. For more information or to sign up for Xfinity Mobile, visit an Xfinity store or www.xfinity.com/mobile.

Davis Foundation Supports Irish Cultural Center

WEST SPRINGFIELD — The Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation awarded the Irish Cultural Center of Western New England (ICCWNE) a $100,000 grant toward its $2 million goal to help create a community performance center at its Morgan Road facility. The grant will support the ICCWNE’s Capstone Campaign. Funds from the Capstone Campaign will be used to complete the community performance center, which will serve the needs of the greater region for concerts, events, meetings, and private functions. It will provide a home for local, regional, national, and international performance groups, making it a full-scale regional base for Irish heritage and culture as well as a center for cross-cultural collaboration. The space will be able to house performances by major Irish cultural groups, such as Dublin’s Abbey Theatre, as well as regional performers of all ages. Formerly the home of the Elks Lodge, the facility had been vacant for five years prior to the ICCWNE taking possession of it through a partnership with the city of West Springfield. Improvements have included developing a vibrant, Irish country-style restaurant, pub, and meeting and gathering place for the community. With 11,500 square feet of space on four floors, the facility has become the ideal home for the Irish Cultural Center, which was established in 1999.

Eastman Donates Monitoring Equipment to Springfield FD

SPRINGFIELD — Eastman, in partnership with Northern Safety, donated vital medical equipment, known as oximeters, to the Springfield Fire Department. This donation marks a significant and continued collaboration between Eastman, a global specialty manufacturing company with a plant in Indian Orchard, and the Springfield Fire Department, in serving the local community. The equipment being donated consists of 17 high-tech, portable oximeters, which are essential for monitoring vital signs in emergency situations. The Fire Department’s need for the oximeters was learned by Eastman at an Eastman Community Action Program gathering of local neighborhood and community officials sponsored regularly by Eastman Indian Orchard. The oximeters are advanced medical devices capable of accurately measuring blood oxygen levels and heart rates, crucial parameters in assessing a patient’s condition during emergencies such as fires, accidents, or medical crises. These Concord models are rechargeable with large digital displays. Seventeen pediatric finger clips are being donated alongside the oximeter units. These can be used to save the lives of children, including infants.

Tenth Local Farmer Awards Help 100 Farms Make Improvements

AGAWAM — Checks of up to $2,500 have been sent to 100 Western Mass. farms that are recipients of this year’s Local Farmer Awards. Supporting a diverse range of farm operations and infrastructure projects, the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, in partnership with Big Y and the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, along with other funders, issued a record number of awards in the program’s 10th year. A team of independent reviewers read each of the 199 applications submitted this year. These reviewers selected 100 farms to receive a 2024 grant from the Local Farmer Awards. The capital projects include the purchase of an egg-washing machine, livestock pasture expansion, reusable harvest bins, a cover-crop flail mower for reduced tillage, mobile chicken coops, and many more. The program funders collectively contributed more than $230,000 this year to assist these local farmers. Funders include the Harold Grinspoon Charitable Foundation, Big Y, Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture, PeoplesBank, Ann and Steve Davis, Charles and Elizabeth D’Amour, Barbara Deslauriers, Audrey and Chick Taylor, Andrews, Farm Credit East, Hood, the DeNucci Group at Merrill, Baystate Health, Country Bank, Eastern States Exposition, Three County Fair, bankESB, and Franklin First Federal Credit Union. Anyone interested in supporting the 2025 Local Farmer Awards should email Cari Carpenter, director of the program, at [email protected].

Incorporations

Incorporations

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

AGAWAM

2017 Baaz Corp., 7 South Bridge Dr., Agawam, MA 01001. Kuljit Singh Khalsa, 94 Navratil Road, Willington, CT 06279. Pizza parlor.

AMHERST

Amherst Mobile Market Inc., 990 North Pleasant St., Apt. A110, Amherst, MA 01002. Isabel Ramirez Baldaras, 990 North Pleasant St., Apt C107, Amherst, MA 01002. Nonprofit organization established to provide a community-driven, bilingual mobile farmers market that offers high-quality, fresh, affordable, local, and culturally desirable foods to Amherst communities challenged by poor food access and limited income.

CHICOPEE

3rd Rock Kids Inc., 27 Baltic Ave., Chicopee, MA 01020. Joanne Boulanger, same. Charitable organization designed to connect today’s youth with nature and science by utilizing their love of technology while emphasizing the need to protect their planet, their community, and their health.

Prime Max Food Service Inc., 1329 Memorial Dr., Chicopee, MA 01020. Zhong Chen, 76 Gary Dr., Westfield, MA 01085. Wholesale food business.

EAST LONGMEADOW

Attention to Detail Detailing Specialists Inc., 173 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow, MA 01028. Aaron Carrier, 42 Irvington St., Springfield, MA 01108. Detailing and automotive restyling services.

GREENFIELD

Greenfield Tree Committee Inc., 254 Davis St., Greenfield, MA 01301. Mary Chicoine, same. A nonprofit, volunteer group of concerned citizens whose purpose is to promote a strong and resilient urban forest in the city of Greenfield by facilitating the planting of trees along public ways and by educating the public on the value of trees and the need for their care and maintenance.

HUNTINGTON

Still Services Inc., 59 Searle Road, Huntington, MA 01050. Matthew Still, same. Plumbing and related services.

NORTH ADAMS

Good Birth Corp., 225 Eagle St., North Adams, MA 01247. Stanley Shaffer, 5104 Main St., Kansas City, MO 64112. Corporation established to promote maternal and newborn health through education and quality improvement for global midwifery centers.

NORTHAMPTON

Holyoke Hockey Club Inc., 88 Massasoit St., Northampton, MA 01060. Robert Eppsteiner, same. To provide youth underrepresented in the sport of hockey — including kids of color, girls, non-binary kids, and economically disadvantaged kids — with an opportunity to play hockey without cost in a safe and fun environment.

PITTSFIELD

Degree Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Sarah Franklin, same. Software development.

Mountainview General Contractors Inc., 1450 East St., Suite 6F, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Cherie Pierce, same. New home construction and renovations.

Tri-State Lock and Security Inc., 82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100, Pittsfield, MA 01201. Jane Glass, same. Commercial locksmith sales and service.

SOUTH HADLEY

Kiaowan Thai Inc., 9 College St., South Hadley, MA 01075. Fernando Teixeira, 23 Rivercrest Way, South Hadley, MA 01075. Food preparation and services.

SPRINGFIELD

Martes Logistics Corp., 31 Daytona St., Springfield, MA 01108. Diego Martes-Marte, same. Transportation and logistics services.

Tutlop Solutions Inc., 171 Dunmoreland St., Springfield, MA 01109. Luis Lopez, same. Landscaping and handyman for residential and commercial properties.

TURNERS FALLS

Zak’s Auto Sales Inc., 221 Millers Falls Road, Turners Falls, MA 01376. Zaharia Nichita, 46 Randall Wood Dr., Montague, MA 01351. Auto sales.

WEST SPRINGFIELD

Fit Mantra Inc., 353 Rogers Ave., West Springfield, MA 01089. Lakshmi Mudumba, same. Professional fitness training.

WESTFIELD

Howard Landscape & Lawn Care Inc., 4 Powder Mill Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Andrew Howard, 239 Montgomery Road, Westfield, MA 01085. Landscaping and related services.

Kiwanis Club of Northampton Foundation Inc., 223 Bates Road, Westfield, MA 01085. George Ronald Delisle, same. Charitable organization organized exclusively for charitable, religious, educational, and scientific purposes, including, making distributions to organizations that qualify as tax-exempt organizations.

WILLIAMSTOWN

Zhou Chopsticks Inc., 412 Main St., Williamstown, MA 01267. Jiayu Zhou, same. Restaurant.

Doing Business as Certificates

DBA Certificates

The following business certificates and/or trade names were issued or renewed during the month of April 2024.

HOLYOKE

Comfortable Colors Painting
35 Reservation Road
Mary Hamel

Emmanuel Jewelry
311 High St.
Tai Kang

Enterprise Rent-A-Car
1615 Northampton St.
Stephen Ranieri

Estella Insurance
580 Appleton St.
Laura Solano

Flo’s Services
42 Arnodale Ave.
Florin Muradian

Green Rose Tattoo
1735 Northampton St.
Northampton Street Tattoo LLC

Jo-Ann Stores #677
2267 Northampton St.
Jo-Ann Stores LLC

Matt’s Pellet Stove Service
175 Sycamore St.
Matthew Abelli

N Touch Wireless Inc.
2227 Northampton St.
John Quillen

Scorpio’s Lair Creations
33 Maple Crest Circle
Sarah King

A Touch of Beauty Hair and Nails
50 Holyoke St.
Hoang Vo

LONGMEADOW

Art by Samantha Pacheco
93 Westmoreland Ave.
Samantha Pacheco

Charthouse Financial Group
210 Bliss Road
Cynthia Stewart

Charthouse Wealth Management
210 Bliss Road
Cynthia Stewart

Clear View Exterior Cleaning
150 Bel Air Dr.
Vito Cocchi

Coddington Accounting & Tax
29 Elmwood Ave.
Ian Coddington

Four Guys and a Truck
162 Field Road
Lori Conte

Prime Real Estate
111 Warren Ter.
David Roffo

Solutions for Senior Living Communities
50 Wheel Meadow Dr.
George Prouty

Wash Bros.
551 Williams St.
Dimitri Beach

Weiss Consulting
704 Shaker Road
Anne Weiss

PITTSFIELD

Brattle Farm
600 Williams St.
Donna Chandler

Brewberry
204 Partridge Road
Brewberry LLC

Business Growth Catalyst
6 Aspen Way
Roger Matus

Chris Burnick Home Improvement
412 Barker Road
Christopher Burnick

Circa
436 North St.
Rebecca Barnini

Convenience Plus #3727
585 Merrill Road
Global Montello Group Corp.

Crawford’s Service
585 West Housatonic St.
Andrew Newton

Daigle Insurance
82 Wendell Ave., Suite 100
Daigle & Associates Inc.

Dalton Service Plaza
457 Dalton Ave.
El Gato Grande LP

DCT Enterprise Inc.
316 Merrill Road
Donald Davis Jr.

Digital Design Hippo
747 Pecks Road
William Lander

Don Davis Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Refrigeration
316 Merrill Road
Donald Davis Jr.

Factory Upgrade Solutions
747 Pecks Road
William Lander

Gallagher Consulting
21 Nottingham Dr.
Laurie Gallagher

GDL Associates
141 North St.
Giora Witkowski

Gralok
555 Hubbard Ave.
Gralok Loptsson

JF Offroad
82 Wendell Ave.
Brook Ridge Inc.

Mountain View Car Sales
48 Dalton Ave.
Bryan Nguyen

Number 5 Studios LLC
75 South Church St.
Shany Porras

Promise Enterprise
59 Howe Road
Ellen Laryea

Radsac
4 Meadow Ridge Dr.
Rialene Hughes

Rare 297
297 North St.
J&D Reyes Restaurant Entertainment LLC

Superior Seamless Gutters Inc.
316 Merrill Road
Donald Davis Jr.

Trattoria Rustica
75 North St.
Manzo Ristorante Inc.

SOUTH HADLEY

Chef Maggie
643 Newton St., Apt. 2
Margaret Vescio

Operation Backpack
36 Chestnut Hill Road
Operation Backpack

Shopmdgems
8 Tigger Lane
Michelle Denault

SVG Athletics
749 New Ludlow Road
Savage Athletics

SOUTHWICK

Affordable Home Repairs
37 Point Grove Road
Kent Johnson

Max Construction
197 Granville Road
Yuliya Pichnyi

Kennedy Construction
609 College Highway
Shaun Kennedy

Moolicious Farm
258 Feeding Hills Road
Joseph Deedy

Original Car Detailing
529 College Highway
Nicholas Riccitelli

Southwick Meeting House
222 College Highway
Joseph Deedy

Specialty Overhead Door
160 Point Grove Road
Bailey Garrison

Tenerowicz Construction Services
34 Ed Holcomb Road
Robert Tenerowicz

WESTFIELD

BDaniel Construction
31 William St.
Daniil Bondaruk

Camile Hannoush Inc.
99 Springfield Road
Camile Hannoush

Joe’s Mobile Auto Repair
5 City View Blvd.
Joseph Martin

Legacy Cleaning and Remediation
6 Lincoln St.
Patricia Poteat

Mega Bomb’s Lash Studio
77 Mill St., #332
Meghan Murphy

MJ Buy Sell Trade
24 North Elm St.
Michael Ventrice

Mrs. C’s
192 East Main St.
Thomas Collins

Overlook Design Collective
81 Overlook Dr.
Laurencia Carmen, Manuel Rivera Ortiz

PLAYNOW!
5 East Silver St.
Jennr Ventures

Suit Salon
103 North Elm St.
Alieksandra Mkrtchian

Superior Electromechanics
17 Sackett St.
Fran Bozak, Hunter Howie

Vantage Health and Rehab of Westfield
60 East Silver St.
Vantage at Westfield LLC

Bankruptcies

Bankruptcies

The following bankruptcy petitions were recently filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court. Readers should confirm all information with the court.

Arthur, Jane E.
57 Woodlawn Dr.
Williamstown, MA 01267
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/08/2024

Brodeur, Judith O.
133 Carol Ann St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/03/2024

Brunelle, James C.
Brunelle, Yovana
18 Calvin St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/12/2024

Bullock, Portia Laverne
83 Mouton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/01/2024

Butkus, Jesse
27 Christian Hill Road, Apt. 32
Great Barrington, MA 01230
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/11/2024

DeNardo, John A.
DeNardo, Lisa L.
17 Regency Park Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/11/2024

Dickerson, Charlene
142 Dayton St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/09/2024

Feyrer, Rochelle L.
85 Maple St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/04/2024

Gonzalez, Antonio
106 St. James Circle
Springfield, MA 01104
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/11/2024

Guagliardo, Tammy L.
23 Piper Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/01/2024

Ho, Sei N.
1143 Elm St., Apt. 3L
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/04/2024

Meservey, Julianna May
PO Box 615
North Hatfield, MA 01066
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/12/2024

Pare, Lucie
24 Bither St.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 13
Date: 04/08/2024

Jones, Candace E.
PO Box 1331
Belchertown, MA 01007
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/01/2024

Kimball, Michael David
641 Little Rest Road
Warren, MA 01083
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/03/2024

McGale, Jennifer A.
54 Bradford Dr., Apt. A7
West Springfield, MA 01089
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/01/2024

Mendez, Angel D.
114 Ellsworth Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/09/2024

Polverini, Adam J.
57 Perrault St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/15/2024

Rhone, Joseph Craig
Chan, Joanne
46 North St.
Hatfield, MA 01038
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/01/2024

Sherman, Benjamin J.
111 Lloyd Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/11/2024

Singley, Sharon Lyn
419 East River St., #912
Orange, MA 01364
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/10/2024

Thompson, Hannah D.
P.O. Box 974
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/11/2024

Tomasello, Mary Jane
72 Cathy Lane
Barre, MA 01005
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/08/2024

Vazquez, Wanda
a/k/a Malave, Wanda
14 Coomes St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Chapter: 7
Date: 04/12/2024

Real Estate Transactions

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

BUCKLAND

76 Ashfield Road
Buckland, MA 01370
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Rheanna Bauer
Seller: Deleo, Louis J., (Estate)
Date: 04/01/24

10 Maple St.
Buckland, MA 01341
Amount: $565,000
Buyer: James A. Most
Seller: Seth D. Wilschutz
Date: 04/11/24

COLRAIN

4 Avery Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Kristofer J. Billiel
Seller: Lisa J. Genetelli
Date: 04/01/24

25 Phillips Hill Road
Colrain, MA 01340
Amount: $453,000
Buyer: John C. Sherman
Seller: Walter H. Keintzel
Date: 04/02/24

GREENFIELD

1 Coombs Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $204,959
Buyer: Fidelity & Guarantee Mortgage TR
Seller: Venture Residential LLC
Date: 04/01/24

28 Davenport Way
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $627,500
Buyer: Servicenet Inc.
Seller: Xianmei Li
Date: 04/12/24

4 Michelman Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Brittany Billmeyer-Finn
Seller: Douglas Simon
Date: 04/11/24

3 Prospect Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $123,488
Buyer: Brian K. Hall
Seller: Lakeview Loan Servicing LLC
Date: 04/01/24

52 Riddell St.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Marjorie Altidor
Seller: Adil A. Behadilialboade
Date: 04/02/24

10 Southern Ave.
Greenfield, MA 01301
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Jessica L. Flaxington
Seller: Techntech LLC
Date: 04/08/24

MONTAGUE

58 Central St.
Montague, MA 01349
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Danica M. Davis
Seller: Sumwin Corp.
Date: 04/05/24

29 Country Club Lane
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: TM Realty II LLC
Seller: Warren D. Thomas
Date: 04/01/24

30 Country Club Lane
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: Tm Realty II LLC
Seller: Warren D. Thomas
Date: 04/01/24

Dry Hill Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: TM Realty II LLC
Seller: Warren D. Thomas
Date: 04/01/24

Fairway Ave.
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: TM Realty II LLC
Seller: Warren D. Thomas
Date: 04/01/24

1 Fairway Ave.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: TM Realty II LLC
Seller: Thomas FT
Date: 04/01/24

96 High St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $338,000
Buyer: Jonathan Lord
Seller: Joseph P. Kosewicz
Date: 04/12/24

43 J St., Lot 3
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $165,000
Buyer: James E. Koyama
Seller: Marcel James Viens TR
Date: 04/12/24

7 Keith St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Jesse Zabko
Seller: Peter J. Zabko
Date: 04/10/24

163 Montague City Road
Montague, MA 01301
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: TM Realty II LLC
Seller: Warren D. Thomas
Date: 04/01/24

133 Ripley Road
Montague, MA 01351
Amount: $430,000
Buyer: Kevin J. Ovitt
Seller: Geoffrey R. McDonald
Date: 04/08/24

52 Walnut St.
Montague, MA 01376
Amount: $249,000
Buyer: TM Realty II LLC
Seller: Warren D. Thomas
Date: 04/01/24

ORANGE

8 Fieldstone Dr.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $291,500
Buyer: Jahmall M. Jones
Seller: Tarrah C. Hart
Date: 04/05/24

29 Pleasant St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: William J. Saben
Seller: Ralph O. Blair
Date: 04/03/24

524 South Main St.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $262,000
Buyer: Claude Niyonzima
Seller: RCF 2 Acquisition TR
Date: 04/10/24

20 Victor Ave.
Orange, MA 01364
Amount: $265,000
Buyer: Todd J. Bernard
Seller: Ryan T. King
Date: 04/08/24

SUNDERLAND

153 Amherst Road
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $439,000
Buyer: DNB Properties LLC
Seller: Sunderland Rentals LLC
Date: 04/11/24

118 North Main St.
Sunderland, MA 01375
Amount: $485,000
Buyer: DNB Properties LLC
Seller: Sunderland Rentals LLC
Date: 04/11/24

WARWICK

600 Orange Road
Warwick, MA 01378
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Kathryn Woods
Seller: Alana L. Mankowsky
Date: 04/05/24

HAMPDEN COUNTY

AGAWAM

115 Anthony St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $249,500
Buyer: Kmak LLC
Seller: Alicia C. St. Laurent
Date: 04/09/24

738 Barry St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Jamison C. Gottier
Seller: Lindsey, Patricia A., (Estate)
Date: 04/11/24

36 Central St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $160,000
Buyer: Nres LLC
Seller: Perillo, Margaret E., (Estate)
Date: 04/04/24

28 Florida Dr.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Sareen Properties LLC
Seller: Marion Montagna IRT
Date: 04/11/24

118 Forest Hill Road
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Edward C. Anderson
Seller: Alan Rogers
Date: 04/05/24

108 Franklin St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: John E. Cassidy
Seller: Hassan Saleh
Date: 04/02/24

18 Katy Lane
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $492,500
Buyer: Carlos Mukanu
Seller: Douglas Dichard
Date: 04/12/24

148 North West St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $162,500
Buyer: Silverbrook Environmental LLC
Seller: Thomas Gallagher
Date: 04/01/24

239 South St.
Agawam, MA 01001
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Rosa C. Saravia
Seller: Our Town Home Buyers LLC
Date: 04/02/24

36 Taft St.
Agawam, MA 01030
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Daniel Sanchez
Seller: F. H. B. Realty LLP
Date: 04/12/24

BRIMFIELD

4 Hall Place
Brimfield, MA 01010
Amount: $232,500
Buyer: Christopher Beesley
Seller: Christina Cassell
Date: 04/08/24

CHICOPEE

14 Blanchwood Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $341,000
Buyer: Alison Lonczak
Seller: Cac Marketing LLC
Date: 04/08/24

713 Britton St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $137,310
Buyer: Soundview Hm Loa T. 2006-O
Seller: Mary Nadeau
Date: 04/11/24

1154 Burnett Road
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Hannah L. Enscoe
Seller: Scott, Susan S., (Estate)
Date: 04/02/24

322 Dale St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Vasyl Levchyk
Seller: Daniel Burgos
Date: 04/11/24

28 Glenwood St.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Miguel F. Ribeiro
Seller: Beverly A. Los
Date: 04/02/24

2 Lucretia Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01013
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Miguel A. Colon-Lopez
Seller: Kevin A. Joly
Date: 04/05/24

60 Murphy Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $201,500
Buyer: Aldo Properties LLC
Seller: Darlene Stewart-Hernandez
Date: 04/05/24

243 Murphy Lane
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Robert E. McQueen
Seller: Roger L. Kubik IRT
Date: 04/11/24

20 Pendleton Ave.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $325,000
Buyer: Junior Ndikidjang
Seller: Resolute RT
Date: 04/05/24

31 Rose St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $465,000
Buyer: Jonah Holdings LLC
Seller: Home LLC
Date: 04/04/24

47 Royal St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $372,500
Buyer: Angel G. Martinez
Seller: Yanjun Yang
Date: 04/03/24

24 Summer St.
Chicopee, MA 01020
Amount: $309,999
Buyer: Arnaldo Graceski
Seller: Bergeron, Jane C., (Estate)
Date: 04/11/24

EAST LONGMEADOW

42 Favorite Lane
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Peter & Elizabeth RET
Seller: Panter NT
Date: 04/12/24

Parker St.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $175,000
Buyer: Panini Properties Ma LLC
Seller: East Longmeadow Group Investors LLC
Date: 04/12/24

45 Young Ave.
East Longmeadow, MA 01028
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Brianna Jackson
Seller: Keith R. Bazinet
Date: 04/01/24

GRANVILLE

904 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $547,500
Buyer: Tanya M. Laveck
Seller: Susanne M. Chase
Date: 04/05/24

1421 Main Road
Granville, MA 01034
Amount: $390,000
Buyer: Nathan Jensen
Seller: Dean Drzewiecki
Date: 04/08/24

HAMPDEN

Wilbraham Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Keith Nicoli
Seller: Evan Boyle
Date: 04/10/24

174 Wilbraham Road
Hampden, MA 01036
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Paul Yasi
Seller: Irene F. Graves
Date: 04/10/24

HOLLAND

20 May Brook Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $449,000
Buyer: Raffi Keshishian
Seller: Dennis Sneade
Date: 04/12/24

529 Old County Road
Holland, MA 01521
Amount: $555,000
Buyer: Jill M. Papandrea
Seller: Cormier & Sons Construction
Date: 04/10/24

HOLYOKE

203-205 Allyn St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Lobsang Dolma
Seller: Jonathan D. Aronstein
Date: 04/05/24

4 Center St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $187,500
Buyer: Lia Douillet
Seller: Kenneth Raskauskas
Date: 04/04/24

19 Charles St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $309,900
Buyer: Janice Garcia
Seller: Modern Creative Contractors
Date: 04/08/24

360 Chestnut St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $290,000
Buyer: Antonia Santos
Seller: Greater Springfield Habitat
Date: 04/09/24

903 Dwight St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $212,639
Buyer: PNC Bank
Seller: David A. Caputo
Date: 04/08/24

48-50 Florence Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Timothy J. Beaudry
Seller: Lori L. Beaudry RET
Date: 04/03/24

11 Grant St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $275,000
Buyer: Nathan Nuttall
Seller: Carl Hartig
Date: 04/12/24

66 Homestead Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Christian F. Figueroa
Seller: Larry T. Camus
Date: 04/05/24

6 Keefe Ave.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $258,000
Buyer: Peter Lustenberger
Seller: Carolyn E. Lustenberger
Date: 04/01/24

78-82 Newton St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $230,000
Buyer: Principia Holdings LLC
Seller: Alecto RT
Date: 04/05/24

58 Waldo St.
Holyoke, MA 01040
Amount: $336,000
Buyer: Venetia M. Guerrasio
Seller: Jonathan Mills
Date: 04/11/24

LONGMEADOW

67 Birchwood Ave.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $215,000
Buyer: Timothy Mulcahy
Seller: Kenneth R. Henrikson
Date: 04/03/24

50 Oak Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Daniel G. Capretta
Seller: Quercus Properties LLC
Date: 04/08/24

21 Salem Road
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $678,000
Buyer: Ivan Soares
Seller: Robert W. Sullivan
Date: 04/08/24

51 Wellesley Dr.
Longmeadow, MA 01106
Amount: $520,000
Buyer: Mohamed A. Aliyar
Seller: Tran T. Le
Date: 04/05/24

LUDLOW

Balsam Hill Road, Lot 71
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,150
Buyer: Robert C. Lattanzi
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 04/04/24

22 Bristol St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Samuel Cobb
Seller: Antonio Afonso
Date: 04/11/24

306 Chapin St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Kayla Bolduc
Seller: Vincent Fuda
Date: 04/12/24

Equinox Pass Lot 89
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $177,400
Buyer: Richard Young
Seller: Whitetail Wreks LLC
Date: 04/12/24

238 Holyoke St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $369,900
Buyer: Alexander Pena
Seller: Jonathan P. Kielbania
Date: 04/12/24

162 James St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Jeffrey Jansson
Seller: Waiwai RT
Date: 04/09/24

64 Kirkland Ave.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Brandy E. Alexander-Zuber
Seller: Edward J. Rondeau
Date: 04/01/24

61 Lawton St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $299,000
Buyer: Gilbert Palatino
Seller: Brian P. Andraca
Date: 04/08/24

52 Skyridge St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Alexandria L. Florence
Seller: Sarah M. Pascale
Date: 04/05/24

53 Stevens St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $322,500
Buyer: Zecarlos Roxo
Seller: Carol J. Jorge
Date: 04/04/24

123 Westerly Circle
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $650,000
Buyer: Erwin A. Enderle
Seller: Dino J. Dangelo
Date: 04/05/24

75 White St.
Ludlow, MA 01056
Amount: $309,900
Buyer: Jonathan Kielbania
Seller: MJ Real Estate LLC
Date: 04/12/24

MONSON

246 Bumstead Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Robert E. Flynn
Seller: Joyce A. Pikul
Date: 04/11/24

66 Margaret St.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $370,000
Buyer: Matthew R. Lillibridge
Seller: Carol A. Snyder
Date: 04/05/24

32 Stebbins Road
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $385,000
Buyer: Lauren Czarniecki
Seller: Sarah Beauchemin
Date: 04/04/24

4 Stewart Ave.
Monson, MA 01057
Amount: $291,252
Buyer: RMF Buyout Acquisition TR
Seller: Norma M. Germain
Date: 04/08/24

PALMER

55 Buckland St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $329,500
Buyer: Nicholas McAlley
Seller: Laura M. Brown
Date: 04/05/24

4113-4115 Church St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Evan Crossman
Seller: Jonathan A. Marcinkiewicz
Date: 04/10/24

4293-4295 High St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: Joejoe Properties LLC
Seller: J. & M. Premier Properties LLC
Date: 04/04/24

57 Springfield St.
Palmer, MA 01080
Amount: $185,000
Buyer: Luis A. Ayala
Seller: Elizabeth Tellier
Date: 04/12/24

34 Ware St.
Palmer, MA 01069
Amount: $225,000
Buyer: Joshua T. Smith
Seller: Edward R. St. Amand TR
Date: 04/10/24

SPRINGFIELD

81 Adams St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $197,500
Buyer: Veteran Stan LLC
Seller: Janis A. Grimaldi
Date: 04/03/24

33 Ambrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Virgilio Santos
Seller: David Martin
Date: 04/01/24

132 Ambrose St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $150,000
Buyer: William Raleigh
Seller: Richard A. Beyer
Date: 04/09/24

56 Audley Road
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Seller: Martel, John Peter, (Estate)
Date: 04/10/24

43 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,090,000
Buyer: S. & G. Realty LLC
Seller: Nolava LLC
Date: 04/05/24

49 Belmont Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,090,000
Buyer: S. & G. Realty LLC
Seller: Nolava LLC
Date: 04/05/24

10 Belvidere St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $115,000
Buyer: Little Eagle LLC
Seller: Christopher Johnson
Date: 04/03/24

788 Berkshire Ave.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: CRG Properties LLC
Seller: Beverly A. Gay TR
Date: 04/10/24

1112 Boston Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $134,550
Buyer: Pinecrest Holdings LLC
Seller: 1090 Boston Road Inc.
Date: 04/10/24

85 Bowles Park
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $255,000
Buyer: Carina Marrero
Seller: Lsf8 Master Part TR
Date: 04/08/24

121 Brandon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Lamikco T. Magee
Seller: Thomas Ricks
Date: 04/08/24

365 Cadwell Dr.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $3,100,000
Buyer: 6S T Springfield Mass. LLC
Seller: Cal Rolling Hills LLC
Date: 04/10/24

147 Cedar St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: DD&K Properties LLC
Seller: Carlos Dones
Date: 04/04/24

414 Central St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Migdalia Leon
Seller: C&C Homes LLC
Date: 04/02/24

564 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $327,000
Buyer: Lucimar Ribeiro
Seller: Luis A. Villanueva
Date: 04/09/24

86-88 Chestnut St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $356,000
Buyer: Mark E. Bido
Seller: Revampit LLC
Date: 04/10/24

66 Clydesdale Lane
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Frank J. Gleason
Seller: Paul R. Gramarossa
Date: 04/10/24

70 Coleman St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Marisa Rivera
Seller: Phantom Holdings LLC
Date: 04/12/24

226-228 College St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: DB Investments & Properties LLC
Seller: Etabav RT
Date: 04/08/24

64 Colonial Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Juan L. Vazquez-Mercado
Seller: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Date: 04/10/24

791 Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: CRG Properties LLC
Seller: Beverly A. Gay TR
Date: 04/10/24

137 Croyden Ter.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $260,850
Buyer: Brooke Eddy
Seller: Joy E. Levine
Date: 04/11/24

82 Crystal Brook Dr.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $575,000
Buyer: Hirving Henriquez
Seller: Grahams Construction Inc.
Date: 04/04/24

189 Dickinson St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $401,000
Buyer: Moises A. Bonilla
Seller: Jefferson Barros
Date: 04/12/24

80 Embassy Road
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $282,000
Buyer: Elizabeth Langat
Seller: Monaghan, Marilyn Ruth, (Estate)
Date: 04/12/24

53-55 Fernwold St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Jose N. Arenas-Caceres
Seller: Corey A. Diaz
Date: 04/12/24

28 Florence St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $320,000
Buyer: Petrika Jankulla
Seller: Earl Andrews
Date: 04/03/24

68 Forest Park Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $341,000
Buyer: Augustin H. Hernandez
Seller: AK & M Properties & Estates LLC
Date: 04/12/24

132 Gresham St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Seller: 716 Spring Valley LLC
Date: 04/05/24

136 Gresham St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $235,000
Buyer: Plata O. Plomo Inc.
Seller: 716 Spring Valley LLC
Date: 04/05/24

97 Groveland St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: James W. Fiore
Seller: Linda Zolendziewski
Date: 04/09/24

61 Harmon Ave.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Imayrin Padua
Seller: Henry D. Champagne
Date: 04/04/24

162 Hartford Ter.
Springfield, MA 01118
Amount: $304,000
Buyer: Jonathan P. Lafrenaye
Seller: Matthew R. Lillibridge
Date: 04/05/24

65 Hollywood St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Kelli L. Phillips
Seller: Sullivan Property Preservation
Date: 04/09/24

50 Home St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Jacob Martinez
Seller: Keefe, Richard P., (Estate)
Date: 04/12/24

50-52 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $375,000
Buyer: Mass. Orange Pleasant LLC
Seller: Trudel C. Allen
Date: 04/01/24

161 Kensington Ave.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $440,000
Buyer: MLB Property Mgmt. LLC
Seller: Benjamin L. Lawlor
Date: 04/11/24

148 Knollwood St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $137,000
Buyer: Dreamwake Homes Inc.
Seller: Robert, John E., (Estate)
Date: 04/01/24

243 Lamont St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $272,500
Buyer: Lida Lim
Seller: Blanca I. Valentin
Date: 04/12/24

38 Larchmont St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $249,525
Buyer: Richard MacDonald
Seller: Fumi Realty Inc.
Date: 04/12/24

4-8 Leyfred Ter.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $2,090,000
Buyer: S. & G. Realty LLC
Seller: Nolava LLC
Date: 04/05/24

15 Lloyd Ave.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $345,000
Buyer: Mark Whyte
Seller: Mark S. Goulet
Date: 04/04/24

33-35 Los Angeles St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $355,100
Buyer: Joel Matias
Seller: Robin Sytulek
Date: 04/04/24

119 Maebeth St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Sami Ventriglia
Seller: Guadalupe M. De Friedson
Date: 04/01/24

28-30 Marble St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Barthelemy Properties LLC
Seller: Cherrie Jowers
Date: 04/09/24

21 Marchioness Road
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $271,500
Buyer: Latoya G. Hallums
Seller: Juliane M. Brayton
Date: 04/10/24

137 Massachusetts Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Mildred O. Abrah
Seller: Elite Properties LLC
Date: 04/11/24

57 Massreco St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $247,000
Buyer: Yannick Shematsi
Seller: Iris M. Valentin
Date: 04/01/24

84 Meadowbrook Road
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Matthew T. Pahl
Seller: Sean Stevens
Date: 04/05/24

100-102 Middlesex St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $285,500
Buyer: Nixilu Romero
Seller: VMC Investments LLC
Date: 04/02/24

151 Monroe St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $306,500
Buyer: Eduar B. Masariegos
Seller: Anthony Bixby
Date: 04/09/24

219 Morton St.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $135,000
Buyer: Unlimited Property Services LLC
Seller: Chenevert Properties LLC
Date: 04/08/24

210 Navajo Road
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Andrew F. Delsanto
Seller: Louis Bonavita
Date: 04/05/24

118 Oak St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Angel Franco
Seller: Debra A. O’Connor
Date: 04/05/24

87 Oak Grove Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $285,000
Buyer: Patricia Delarosa
Seller: Brvsa Associates LLC
Date: 04/12/24

1128 Page Blvd.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $240,000
Buyer: Juan A. Vargas
Seller: Raquel I. Rodriguez
Date: 04/01/24

1964 Parker St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $180,400
Buyer: Erin K. Sullivan
Seller: Nancy A. Ainsworth
Date: 04/03/24

35 Patricia Circle
Springfield, MA 01129
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Linux Holdings TR
Date: 04/12/24

76 Paulk Ter.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $365,000
Buyer: Erica Davis
Seller: Jeffrey W. Peristere
Date: 04/11/24

81 Pemaquid St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Dawn M. Wanzo
Seller: Chelyka Diaz
Date: 04/12/24

271 Pine St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Jennifer M. Rodriguez
Seller: North End Housing Initiative
Date: 04/04/24

110 Quincy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $270,000
Buyer: Erica M. McAuliffe
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 04/12/24

221-223 Quincy St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $317,500
Buyer: Glenroy A. Henry
Seller: Morgan V. Dibacco
Date: 04/02/24

4 Silas St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $245,000
Buyer: Angel Colon
Seller: Thomas, Brenda D., (Estate)
Date: 04/12/24

37 Silver St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $317,500
Buyer: Brendan M. Rios
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 04/11/24

3 Smallwood St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $349,900
Buyer: Jametrious L. Sourdiffe
Seller: Rafariel Garcia
Date: 04/12/24

South Cottage St.
Springfield, MA 01101
Amount: $425,000
Buyer: CRG Properties LLC
Seller: Beverly A. Gay TR
Date: 04/10/24

89 Sparrow Dr.
Springfield, MA 01119
Amount: $340,000
Buyer: Caridad Jean-Baptiste
Seller: Carrasquillo Fix Up LLC
Date: 04/12/24

162 Springfield St.
Springfield, MA 01107
Amount: $330,500
Buyer: Affluent Circle LLC
Seller: Christine Wyszynski
Date: 04/01/24

691 State St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Royal Vibe Homes LLC
Seller: M. Mistri LLC
Date: 04/02/24

63 Telbar St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $180,000
Buyer: NSP Residential LLC
Seller: Ajax 2020-D Reo Corp.
Date: 04/11/24

63 Telbar St.
Springfield, MA 01128
Amount: $230,700
Buyer: Tammy M. Brown
Seller: NSP Residential LLC
Date: 04/11/24

550 Tiffany St.
Springfield, MA 01108
Amount: $305,000
Buyer: Andrea P. Allen
Seller: Jenny L. Wiley
Date: 04/12/24

14 Tourigny St.
Springfield, MA 01104
Amount: $269,000
Buyer: Javier Laboy
Seller: Pah Properties LLC
Date: 04/11/24

111 Warrenton St.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $310,000
Buyer: Kelly Summers
Seller: David Roffo
Date: 04/11/24

116-120 William St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Carole A. Calderon
Seller: RBT Enterprise LLC
Date: 04/08/24

58 Willard Ave.
Springfield, MA 01109
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Jean L. Saintlouis
Seller: Roy Watson
Date: 04/04/24

1402-1404 Worcester St.
Springfield, MA 01151
Amount: $331,000
Buyer: Brandon Loyd
Seller: Jennifer Montalvo
Date: 04/03/24

930-934 Worthington St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Pak ABQ Property LLC
Seller: SIS Worthington Realty LLC
Date: 04/04/24

940 Worthington St.
Springfield, MA 01105
Amount: $300,000
Buyer: Pak Abq Property LLC
Seller: Sis Worthington Realty LLC
Date: 04/04/24

SOUTHWICK

765 College Hwy.
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $409,000
Buyer: Joseph Hamelin
Seller: Hamelin Framing Inc.
Date: 04/04/24

72 Granville Road
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $427,400
Buyer: Miller RET
Seller: RM Blerman LLC
Date: 04/10/24

28 Noble Steed Xing
Southwick, MA 01077
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Mehmet Mizanoglu
Seller: Hedge Hog Industries Corp.
Date: 04/05/24

WALES

60 Stafford Road
Wales, MA 01081
Amount: $187,500
Buyer: Charliene Casey
Seller: Albert F. Casey
Date: 04/03/24

WEST SPRINGFIELD

25 Brice Road
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Jennifer M. Rossi
Seller: Steven R. Rossi
Date: 04/10/24

135 Brookline Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $284,000
Buyer: Michael K. Morgan
Seller: Jeet Majhi
Date: 04/04/24

34 City View Ave.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $250,000
Buyer: Shannon B. Doyle
Seller: Christopher J. Fontaine
Date: 04/12/24

31 Cottage St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $210,000
Buyer: Maxwell D. Foxx
Seller: Arpc LLC
Date: 04/05/24

83 Miami St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $125,000
Buyer: Mark R. Turnbull
Seller: Kenneth P. Turnbull
Date: 04/09/24

29 York St.
West Springfield, MA 01089
Amount: $335,000
Buyer: Koch Real Estate Corp.
Seller: Colin Moll
Date: 04/02/24

WESTFIELD

5 Bancroft St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Steven W. Gardner
Seller: Malia Homebuyers LLC
Date: 04/08/24

80 Elizabeth Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $466,000
Buyer: Gregory J. Linscott
Seller: Lizette Rodriguez
Date: 04/10/24

4 Greylock St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $228,000
Buyer: Jeffrey D. Edinger
Seller: Bernadine M. Laquerre
Date: 04/05/24

34 North Elm St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $1,500,000
Buyer: North Elm Realty Inc
Seller: Harry E. Theodorakis TR
Date: 04/04/24

4 Ravine Circle
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $415,000
Buyer: Nikolas Fiore
Seller: John L. Vershon
Date: 04/11/24

12 Robinson Dr.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $317,000
Buyer: John L. Vershon
Seller: Michael Solek
Date: 04/11/24

28 Smith Ave.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $170,000
Buyer: Andrzej Barszcz
Seller: Paula A. Patterson
Date: 04/01/24

21 State St.
Westfield, MA 01085
Amount: $280,000
Buyer: Devun Nadeau
Seller: Coburn A. Watson
Date: 04/04/24

WILBRAHAM

408 Dipping Hole Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $260,000
Buyer: Maureen Pisani
Seller: Nicole A. Lapointe
Date: 04/12/24

4 Iroquois Lane
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $770,000
Buyer: Brandon Lawrence
Seller: Lamica, Robin C., (Estate)
Date: 04/05/24

512 Mountain Road
Wilbraham, MA 01095
Amount: $535,000
Buyer: Rafariel Garcia
Seller: Xiuyi Liang
Date: 04/12/24

HAMPSHIRE COUNTY

AMHERST

16 Arbor Way
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $738,000
Buyer: Nan Zhao
Seller: Faheem Ibrahim LT
Date: 04/08/24

63 Cherry Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $625,000
Buyer: Richard B. Pierce
Seller: Theodore A. Hallstrom
Date: 04/02/24

East Pleasant St., Lot 1
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $218,000
Buyer: YG Pleasant LLC
Seller: Richard B. Spurgin
Date: 04/09/24

East Pleasant St., Lot 2
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $218,000
Buyer: YG Pleasant LLC
Seller: Richard B. Spurgin
Date: 04/09/24

22 Foxglove Lane
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $570,000
Buyer: Wade R. Elmore
Seller: Charles P. Sutphin
Date: 04/12/24

35 Maplewood Circle
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $470,000
Buyer: Julius J. Rosenthal
Seller: Bodin, D. Joseph, (Estate)
Date: 04/01/24

37 Meadow St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $264,000
Buyer: Matthew J. Sabola
Seller: Cheryl M. Sabola
Date: 04/10/24

65 Mount Pleasant
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $670,000
Buyer: Marrs Cottage LLC
Seller: William B. Rosenbaum
Date: 04/10/24

240 Northampton Road
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $600,000
Buyer: Larunamurti LLC
Seller: JELB Properties LLC
Date: 04/04/24

80 West St.
Amherst, MA 01002
Amount: $420,000
Buyer: Gregory Gotlieb
Seller: North Pleasant St. Partner
Date: 04/01/24

BELCHERTOWN

68 Cheryl Circle
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $129,564
Buyer: Daniel F. Gualberto
Seller: Susan M. Gualberto
Date: 04/09/24

15 Jasons Way
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $610,000
Buyer: Kristofer C. Nite
Seller: Jason A. Overgaard
Date: 04/12/24

North Liberty St., Lot 5
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $145,000
Buyer: David R. Muir
Seller: Steven E. Pomerantz
Date: 04/03/24

52 South Liberty St.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $400,000
Buyer: Kristina Nowak
Seller: Hal H. Freeman
Date: 04/12/24

20 Sarah Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $355,000
Buyer: Rema Mills
Seller: Shelterwood Mgmt. LLC
Date: 04/11/24

8 Sherwood Dr.
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $455,000
Buyer: Gergess A. Assaf
Seller: Bryand D. Jamgochian
Date: 04/12/24

Woodland Lane
Belchertown, MA 01007
Amount: $130,000
Buyer: Nancy Tougas
Seller: Bell Property Corp.
Date: 04/09/24

GRANBY

100 North St.
Granby, MA 01033
Amount: $295,000
Buyer: Griffin A. Robtoy
Seller: Wicked Deals LLC
Date: 04/04/24

HADLEY

72 North Maple St.
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $450,000
Buyer: Kenneth H. Ozkaptan
Seller: Pelham Rd Partners LLC
Date: 04/08/24

124 Rocky Hill Road
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $495,000
Buyer: DNB Properties LLC
Seller: Hadley Reantals LLC
Date: 04/11/24

Shattuck Road (off)
Hadley, MA 01035
Amount: $950,000
Buyer: Food Bank Of Western Mass.
Seller: John T. Boisvert
Date: 04/08/24

NORTHAMPTON

87 Chapel St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $379,000
Buyer: Brandon Hagen
Seller: Judith A. Dion
Date: 04/09/24

88 Crescent St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $500,000
Buyer: Theodore J. Paradise
Seller: Michael G. George
Date: 04/02/24

94 Crescent St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $1,185,000
Buyer: Michael G. George
Seller: Theodore Paradise
Date: 04/02/24

177 Crescent St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $410,000
Buyer: Chenevert Properties LLC
Seller: Ferree, Louisa, (Estate)
Date: 04/09/24

12 East St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $200,000
Buyer: Elaine M. Reall
Seller: Frances C. Corriveau
Date: 04/09/24

Fern St.
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $162,000
Buyer: Michael J. Hoffman
Seller: Elizabeth Young
Date: 04/05/24

70 Fern St.
Northampton, MA 01062
Amount: $421,000
Buyer: Kristen J. Elden
Seller: Elizabeth Young
Date: 04/05/24

Florence Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $237,000
Buyer: Lee Feldscher
Seller: Jonathan N. Kelley
Date: 04/11/24

23 Higgins Way
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $901,000
Buyer: Susan Claire Faludi RET
Seller: B. Samuels & N. Ryburn Jret
Date: 04/12/24

41 Hillside Road
Northampton, MA 01060
Amount: $910,000
Buyer: Kusmer-Plude Ft
Seller: Irish, Alan J., (Estate)
Date: 04/10/24

PELHAM

2 Amherst Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $190,000
Buyer: Wilson Prop Group LLC
Seller: Robert D. Jackson
Date: 04/05/24

128 Amherst Road
Pelham, MA 01002
Amount: $405,000
Buyer: Joseph Famighette
Seller: Copeland Int.
Date: 04/12/24

SOUTH HADLEY

12 Alvord St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $651,000
Buyer: Sarah E. Burns
Seller: Mariann Millard
Date: 04/03/24

258 East St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $350,000
Buyer: Chance Sliwa
Seller: Carol Y. Florence
Date: 04/04/24

275 Hadley St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $360,000
Buyer: Joan G. O’Connell
Seller: Gregory J. Linscott
Date: 04/10/24

465 Newton St.
South Hadley, MA 01075
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Brittany Ankiewicz
Seller: Brett F. Johnson
Date: 04/10/24

SOUTHAMPTON

3 Glendale Woods Dr.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $291,590
Buyer: Donna L. Wright
Seller: David K. Roland
Date: 04/11/24

2 Laurie Dr.
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $348,800
Buyer: Ryan Goff
Seller: Gauvin IRT
Date: 04/05/24

5 Parsons Way
Southampton, MA 01073
Amount: $660,000
Buyer: Elisabeth E. North
Seller: Trevor H. Young
Date: 04/01/24

WARE

45 Aspen St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $178,000
Buyer: Dionisio Cepeda
Seller: Edith Modebe
Date: 04/03/24

123 Glendale Circle
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $330,000
Buyer: Kristi-Lee Kinney
Seller: Darin M. Snow
Date: 04/11/24

11 Walnut St.
Ware, MA 01082
Amount: $284,000
Buyer: Daniel Warsaw
Seller: Kayley L. Jones
Date: 04/12/24

WORTHINGTON

264 Goss Hill Road
Worthington, MA 01098
Amount: $475,000
Buyer: Grace A. Golden
Seller: Thibaud E. Doultremont
Date: 04/08/24

Building Permits

Building Permits

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

CHICOPEE

Fairview Knights of Columbus
1599 Memorial Dr.
$550,000 — Construct Dunkin’ Donuts restaurant with drive-thru

Faith United Methodist Church
191 Montcalm St.
$25,547 — Replace 19 windows

Paul Mailhott
301 Front St.
$9,600 — Insulation

Jeffrey O’Connor, Cathy O’Connor
15 Leclair Ter.
$18,000 — Air seal and insulate attic, basement, and walls; install ventilation; weatherize access

O’Leary Vincunas LLC
2140 Westover Road
$10,000 — Demolish office interior, including acoustical ceiling and grid, office partition walls, and data cabling

Tremble Realty Corp.
20 First Ave.
$229,950 — Roofing

EASTHAMPTON

136 Pleasant LLC
136-148 Pleasant St.
$33,300 — Construct non-structural, non-load-bearing walls

136 Pleasant LLC
136-148 Pleasant St.
$15,600 — Construct non-structural, non-load-bearing walls

Margaret Lecko
101 Briggs St.
$13,600 — Air seal and insulate attic, basement, and walls; install ventilation; weatherize access

Elaine Pourinski
41 South St.
$11,820 — Demolish and drywall second-floor bathroom tub, replace with shower

Christopher Thompson
6-12 Irving St.
$14,000 — Remove and replace shingles

HADLEY

BH Real Estate LLC
14 South Maple St.
N/A — Produce and install channel letters

Gordon Cook Jr.
129 South Maple St.
N/A — Construct packed bedded barn

E&A/I&G Campus Plaza LP
454 Russell St.
N/A — Construct interior partitions for offices and workout area

Floranine LLC
285 Russell St.
N/A — Apply maintenance coat over roof membrane

Hadley Mall Outparcel LLC
379 Russell St.
N/A — Interior demolition

Kathryn Richardson
81 Rocky Hill Road
N/A — Install ground-mounted PV array

SPRINGFIELD

276 Bridge LLC
270 Bridge St.
$81,900 — Alter storefront system and soffit at Springfield Innovation Center

C&W Real Estate Co. LLP
1889 Wilbraham Road
$250,000 — Extend height of telecommunications tower, install new antennas and associated equipment

FNBC Realty Corp., et al.
1350 Main St.
$3,000 — Renovate office space on 16th and 17th floors

Gulmohar Hospitality LLC
711 Dwight St.
$1,500,000 — Remodel rooms at La Quinta Inn & Suites to combine and create new kitchenette areas

Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame
1000 West Columbus Ave.
$1,034,894 — Alter interior banquet hall into a golf simulator lounge

Rhino Realty
143 Parker St.
$50,000 — Install foundation for car dealership

Solutia Inc.
730 Worcester St.
$505,339 — Electrical building

United We Care LLC
1522 State St.
$796,477 — Remodel commercial property to create new adult daycare facility

Senate Leaders Propose Universal Free Community College for Massachusetts Residents

LOWELL — On Monday, Senate leaders unveiled MassEducate, a proposal for tuition-free, universal community college for all Massachusetts residents, aimed at boosting the state’s workforce and expanding opportunity for students and families in every part of the Commonwealth.

The announcement was made during an event at Middlesex Community College in Lowell, where Senate President Karen Spilka, Senate Ways & Means Chair Michael Rodrigues, and Senate Higher Education Chair Jo Comerford gathered with members of the Senate, presidents of the Commonwealth’s 15 community colleges, business leaders, students, and advocates.

“Today, we shift conversations about college from ‘I wish’ to ‘I will’ for thousands of students and families in Massachusetts,” Spilka said. “We are investing in talent that is right here at home and opening the workforce floodgates to employers who are starved for graduates, so Massachusetts keeps the competitive edge that we pride ourselves in.”

MassEducate would invest $75.5 million in new spending to cover tuition and fees for all residents and offer an up to $1,200 stipend for books, supplies, and other costs to students who make up to 125% of median income in the state. Pell-eligible students already eligible for a books stipend through state financial aid would also be eligible for a stipend for books, supplies, and costs of attendance, for a combined amount of up to $2,400 per year.

“With the historic investments announced today, ushering in universally free community college and more, the Senate doubles down on our commitment to build back the power and promise of public higher education,” Comerford said. “The Senate investments will propel the Commonwealth forward toward greater social equity and greater economic competitiveness.”

The Senate’s plan, which will be included in the chamber’s FY 2025 budget, would continue to invest in programs created in the FY 2024 budget, including $18 million in free nursing programs at community colleges and $24 million in free community college for residents over age 25.

Students would be eligible for free tuition, fees and the stipend in the fall 2025 semester if the proposal is included in the Commonwealth’s final FY 2025 budget.

To support students whose education paths can be jeopardized by unanticipated life events, Senate leaders announced the creation of the Student Persistence Fund, a $10 million investment that would go directly toward aiding community colleges and state universities in supporting low-income students with such costs that are shown to put someone’s chance of finishing school at risk, such as transportation, childcare, or food insecurity.

Understanding that retention and graduation is directly tied to support systems like advising and career planning, the Senate also proposed an $18.3 investment in the Supporting Urgent Community College Equity through Student Services (SUCCESS) program, which is designed for community colleges to invest in wraparound supports and services using models proven to strengthen outcomes for students facing systemic barriers, especially for colleges’ most underserved populations.

To ensure the long-term fiscal sustainability of the program, the Senate’s proposal would institute annual tuition-increase caps at community colleges set at an inflation index. And to hold community colleges accountable for producing positive outcomes, the proposal creates a working group to re-evaluate community-college performance funding, aimed at better aligning state funding with key metrics such as student success and workforce alignment.

Recognizing that many Massachusetts students opt directly for four-year universities, the budget makes a historic $105 million investment in the Massachusetts financial-assistance program MassGrant Plus which keeps college costs low for students at all public colleges in the Commonwealth. This increased investment builds on recent investments that have allowed all Pell-eligible students in Massachusetts to go to a community college, state university, or UMass campus without paying tuition or fees.

The proposal additionally includes policy directives to study future paths to success for the Commonwealth’s students. It directs the Department of Higher Education to improve the credit transfer pathway between two- and four-year institutions so students can easily transfer to a public four-year institution. It also creates a new commission to evaluate current state financial assistance for students to attend state universities and UMass and evaluate ways to further ensure accessibility and affordability of an education at these institutions.

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Promotes 10 Employees

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) announced the promotion of several key employees, reflecting the bank’s commitment to fostering a culture of growth and recognizing exceptional performance.

“Investing in our people is paramount to our continued success,” said Tony Worden, president and CEO of Greenfield Cooperative Bank. “These promotions acknowledge the dedication and expertise of our team members who consistently deliver exceptional service to our customers. Their leadership and deep understanding of the financial-services industry will be instrumental in driving our future growth.”

Siobhan Tripp is being promoted to marketing director. She has been with GCB since 2020.

Harlin Glovacki is being promoted to branch manager-in-training. He has been with GCB since 2022.

Annette Baker is being promoted to customer service representative. She has been with GCB since 2021.

Brandi Knowlton is being promoted to customer service representative. She has been with GCB since 2024.

Aaron Thompson is being promoted to customer service representative. He has been with GCB since 2023.

Sarah Beresford is being promoted to head teller. She has been with GCB since 2022.

Samantha Kelley is being promoted to assistant manager. She has been with GCB since 2013.

Kim Fontaine is being promoted to senior underwriter. She has been with GCB since 2023.

Angie Macleay is being promoted to senior underwriter. She has been with GCB since 2009.

Aaron Frentzos is being promoted to senior technology specialist. He has been with GCB since 2013.

Health New England Honors Tania Barber with Grant to Caring Health Center

SPRINGFIELD — In honor of Tania Barber’s eight years of service on the board of directors of Health New England (HNE), the not-for-profit health plan is donating $5,000 to Caring Health Center. Barber recently retired from the HNE board and is currently the president and CEO of Caring Health Center, the only federally qualified community health center in Springfield.

The grant will focus on Caring Health Center’s new Tania M. Barber Learning Institute, which offers training for professions in the healthcare industry. The model of the Learning Institute, developed by Barber, pays students, often individuals from historically underrepresented groups, while they undergo training for jobs.

“By serving on Health New England’s board, Barber has helped enhance the company’s partnerships with community health entities to form a more collaborative healthcare ecosystem,” said Richard Swift, president and CEO of Health New England. “She helped steer the company through the COVID-19 health emergency while managing her frontline health center as it dealt directly with the ravages of the pandemic. That is exceptional work. We will miss Tania on our board and thank her deeply for her service.”

Barber’s vision for the Learning Institute is to address systemic barriers affecting BIPOC, immigrant, and refugee communities in Springfield. She prioritizes hiring from within the community to respond to workforce shortages and disparities, like racial wealth gaps and barriers to access education. During her two decades at Caring Health Center, she has been committed to lifting others up.

“This donation is so appreciated. The Learning Institute will use these funds to help us keep the doors open, transform lives, and train the next generation of healthcare professionals,” Barber said. “The work we do today will shape the future of so many people and change our community for the better. These funds will also help people from Springfield and other communities gain the skills they need to get jobs with good pay in the healthcare field. It has been a great pleasure serving on the board of Health New England, and I thank my fellow board members for their support of community health.”

Berkshire Bank Foundation Makes Philanthropic Contributions to 107 Nonprofits

BOSTON — Berkshire Bank announced that its foundation made $401,190 in philanthropic investments during the first quarter of 2024. The grants covered a wide range of projects that foster upward economic mobility, support overall well-being, and enhance opportunities for individual success in the communities the bank serves. The investments also support the company’s BEST Community Comeback program.

In all, the Berkshire Bank Foundation gave 107 local nonprofits grants to assist with critical projects in the areas of education, youth, food insecurity, housing, healthcare, substance-abuse prevention, veterans, and employment. In addition, the foundation supports programs that align with Berkshire Bank’s Center for Women, Wellness, and Wealth.

“As a community-focused bank, we recognize the importance of supporting nonprofit organizations with time, talent, and treasure,” said Lori Gazzillo Kiely, director of the Berkshire Bank Foundation. “We are proud to provide philanthropic contributions to so many organizations that are enabling vital services continue in the communities that Berkshire Bank serves.”

Greenfield Cooperative Bank Announces Three Executive Promotions

GREENFIELD — Greenfield Cooperative Bank (GCB) announced the promotions of three team members, recognizing their contributions while fostering a culture of advancement within the company.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of these dedicated employees,” said Tony Worden, president and CEO of GCB. “Their commitment to excellence and leadership skills make them invaluable assets. These promotions demonstrate our dedication to empowering our people and providing them with opportunities for growth.”

Jeremy Payson is being promoted to executive vice president, Finance. He holds an MBA in finance and economics from Western New England University and has been with the bank since 2022.

Chris Wilkey is being promoted to vice president, Information Systems. He has been with GCB since 2007.

Julie Gonzales is being promoted to assistant vice president, Human Resources. She has been with Greenfield Co-op since 2012.

These promotions acknowledge the significant contributions made by these individuals across various departments within Greenfield Cooperative Bank. This commitment to internal advancement fosters a positive and motivated work environment, where employees are empowered to reach their full potential.

Kuhn Riddle Promotes Garrison Piers-Gamble to Senior Project Manager

AMHERST — Kuhn Riddle Architects & Designers announced the promotion of Garrison Piers-Gamble to the position of senior project manager.

Piers-Gamble brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this elevated role, having demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of sustainable architecture principles throughout his career. As a certified passive house consultant, and with experience working on a Living Building Challenge project, he is poised to drive the firm’s commitment to sustainability to new heights.

Piers-Gamble has played a pivotal role in the firm’s engagement in the AIA 2030 Commitment, with a goal that all the firm’s projects will achieve net-zero emissions by 2030. His dedication to excellence, coupled with his strong background in architectural project management and enthusiastic approach to sustainable design, has earned him recognition from clients and colleagues alike.

As senior project manager, he will lead the firm’s efforts in advancing sustainable and passive house design principles across all projects. He will work closely with clients, design teams, and industry partners to develop tailored solutions that minimize environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency and exceeding clients’ expectations.

“We are thrilled to announce Garrison Piers-Gamble’s promotion to senior project manager,” said Aelan Tierney, president of Kuhn Riddle Architects & Designers. “With his expertise and passion for sustainable design, he will play a key role in shaping the future of our firm and driving positive change in our local architectural community.”

Monson Savings Bank Receives Highest Rating for Financial Strength, Stability

MONSON — Bank rating firm BauerFinancial Inc. announced that Monson Savings Bank has earned its highest, 5-Star Superior rating for financial strength and stability for the 57th consecutive quarter.

Having maintained its financial strength and stability for more than a decade, Monson Savings Bank has also earned another designation as an Exceptional Performance Bank. Only banks that have earned and maintained this highest 5-Star rating for 10 years (40 consecutive quarters) or longer may claim this distinction. This latest rating was assigned in March 2024 based on Dec. 31, 2023 financial data.

“It gives me great pleasure to announce that there are still banks, like Monson Savings Bank, that continue to provide a sense of security in this insecure world,” said Karen Dorway, president of BauerFinancial. “Friends and neighbors of Monson Savings Bank probably already know this. They have the privilege of having a true community bank that sticks to common-sense banking values, right in their community. It’s important to let those who might not be aware know that they have the strength of a 5-Star bank right in their midst.”

Dan Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank, added that “our entire team at Monson Savings Bank works together to ensure our performance in financial strength and stability remain consistent year after year. As a local community bank serving the financial needs of our area for more than 152 years, we are incredibly proud of this 5-Star rating. It represents the hard work put forth to remain well-capitalized and financially sound so we can continue to provide our customers with the best support and services and contribute to the vibrancy of our local communities. We want our community members to know they can trust in Monson Savings Bank.”

A Better Life Homecare to Host Cocktail Hour on June 5

SPRINGFIELD — A Better Life Homecare will host a cocktail hour at Dewey’s Jazz Lounge in Springfield on Wednesday, June 5 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

This networking event serves multiple purposes. First, it’s an opportunity for the company to introduce its newest home-care programs, designed with the aim of enhancing quality of life for clients. Additionally, A Better Life has exciting news to share.

Attendees will connect with fellow healthcare experts and community leaders in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, discover more about A Better Life’s innovative homecare programs and how they can benefit those in need, and join in celebrating the company’s successes and look forward to a future of continued collaboration and growth.

RSVP by emailing [email protected] or calling (413)285-5929.

BusinessTalk with Kara Bombard, president of the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield

Business Talk Podcast Special Coverage

We are excited to announce that BusinessWest has launched a new podcast series, BusinessTalk. Each episode will feature in-depth interviews and discussions with local industry leaders, providing thoughtful perspectives on the Western Massachuetts economy and the many business ventures that keep it running during these challenging times.

Go HERE to view all episodes

Episode 212: May 6, 2024

Joe Interviews Kara Bombard, president of the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield

If she could redo her 20s, Kara Bombard says she would have become involved with the Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield much earlier than she did, because the relationships she has built at YPS — which she currently serves as president — have proven valuable. On the next episode of BusinessTalk, BusinessWest Editor Joe Bednar talks with Bombard about her work at YPS and why the organization is so important 17 years after it was first launched. They also talk about her intriguing role as marketing manager at Performance Foodservice, which helps area restaurants run their businesses more successfully — and her recent selection as one of this year’s 40 Under Forty. It’s must listening, so tune in to BusinessTalk, a podcast presented by BusinessWest.

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United Way of Pioneer Valley Officially Names Megan Moynihan CEO

Megan Moynihan

SPRINGFIELD — United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) announced that Megan Moynihan, who has been serving as interim CEO since February 2023, has officially been appointed CEO of the organization, effective immediately. Moynihan was selected by the UWPV board of directors after a nationwide search.

Moynihan has more than 18 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, including 12 years at UWPV. She joined the organization in 2012 as a finance and accounting analyst and worked her way up to chief operating officer in 2022. In that role, she oversaw the development and implementation of UWPV’s strategic plan, grantmaking, and community partnerships. She also led the organization’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including launching the COVID-19 Relief Fund and shifting programming in response to community needs.

“I am honored and humbled to be named the CEO of United Way of Pioneer Valley, an organization that I have been passionate about for the past decade,” Moynihan said. “I am grateful for the trust and support of the board, the staff, and the community, and I look forward to working with them to advance our mission of improving the lives of people in greatest need in our region.”

Scott Grodsky, chair of the UWPV board of directors, said Moynihan was the unanimous choice of the board after a rigorous and competitive process.

“Megan has proven herself to be an exceptional leader, especially during these challenging times,” he noted. “She has a deep understanding of the needs and opportunities in our community, a strong vision for the future of UWPV, and a commitment to excellence and innovation. We are thrilled to have her as our new CEO, and we are confident that she will take UWPV to the next level of impact and sustainability.”

Liberty Bank Funds Programs for Underserved Women

SPRINGFIELD — The Liberty Bank Foundation, an extension of Liberty Bank’s commitment to the communities it serves, granted Dress for Success Western Massachusetts (DFSWM) $10,000 in support of its mission to provide professional attire and a network of support to help women thrive in work and life.

The funding will help make possible DFSWM’s continuum of support, which helps underserved women and gender non-binary people in the community find not just any job, but sustainable career paths with upward mobility that will change their lives, the lives of their families for generations, and the community on whole.

“As a community bank for nearly 200 years, Liberty Bank is dedicated to setting up people for success through financial-literacy programs and opportunities such as Foot in the Door, led by Dress for Success Western Massachusetts,” said David Glidden, Liberty Bank president and CEO and Liberty Bank Foundation president.

“Diversity, equity, and inclusion is one of our core values,” he added, “and with our growth into Massachusetts, we are dedicated to investing in local programs that uplift women as they navigate through both their personal and professional journeys, put them on the path to financial security, and build up equity within our community. It takes a village to create generational wealth, and supporting women through advocacy and development is one of the best investments we can make.”

The continuum of support includes suiting for professional attire, the Foot in the Door workforce-readiness training, the Margaret Fitzgerald Mentorship Program, the Professional Women’s Group, and digital-literacy training in partnership with another local nonprofit Tech Foundry. In addition to its grant, Liberty Bank also provides financial-literacy programming covering basic budgeting, paths to homeownership, building and rebuilding credit, paying for higher education, and more.

“Liberty Bank has shown that it is not only a funder, but a partner that truly cares about the women we serve,” DFSWM Executive Director Jess Roncarati-Howe said. “From their generous financial support to successful clothing drives to taking time to educate and engage with our participants, Liberty Bank is doing the work hand-in-hand with us and, as David says, establishing the village that will create generational wealth. We are grateful to have their support.”

Freedom Credit Union Collecting Cash Donations to Provide a Bed for Every Child

SPRINGFIELD — Freedom Credit Union believes every child deserves a great night’s sleep, every night. That’s why it is again holding its annual Month of Giving campaign to support the program known as A Bed for Every Child throughout the Pioneer Valley. The community is invited to stop by any Freedom branch throughout the month of May to support this endeavor with cash donations.

“We appreciate the commitment of our members, staff, and community in supporting this important annual initiative,” Freedom Credit Union President Glenn Welch said. “With ongoing support, we can help make sure all children have a warm, cozy place to dream every night.”

This effort began in 2011 when the Massachusetts Coalition for the Homeless learned that many public-school students were not getting enough sleep because they did not have their own beds. In response, they launched A Bed for Every Child in 2012 with a mission to help children get the restful sleep they need to learn and succeed.

Partnering with schools, healthcare institutions, and nonprofit community partners, each child receives a brand-new mattress and a sturdy custom wooden bed frame. On average, A Bed for Every Child receives more than 200 referrals for beds each month statewide. To date, more than 1,598 children have been helped.

Freedom Credit Union has partnered with the Pioneer Valley chapter of the Cooperative Credit Union Assoc. to support this initiative annually since 2017.

BusinessWest Accepting Nominations for 40 Under Forty Alumni Achievement Award

SPRINGFIELD — When BusinessWest launched its 40 Under Forty program in 2007, it did so to identify rising stars across our region — individuals who were excelling in business and through involvement within the community — and celebrate their accomplishments.

In 2015, BusinessWest announced a new award, one that builds on the foundation upon which 40 Under Forty was created. It’s called the Alumni Achievement Award. As the name suggests, it is presented to the 40 Under Forty honoree who, in the eyes of an independent panel of judges, has most impressively continued and built upon his or her track record of accomplishment.

Candidates must be from 40 Under Forty classes prior to the year of the award — in this case, classes 2007 to 2023.

Past winners include: 2023: Amy Royal, founder and CEO, Royal Law Firm (40 Under Forty class of 2009); 2022: Anthony Gleason III, president and co-founder, Gleason Johndrow Companies (class of 2010); 2021: Anthony Gulluni, Hampden County district attorney (class of 2015); 2020: Carla Cosenzi, president, TommyCar Auto Group (class of 2012), and Peter DePergola, director of Clinical Ethics, Baystate Health (class of 2015); 2019: Cinda Jones, president, W.D. Cowls Inc. (40 Under Forty class of 2007); 2018: Samalid Hogan, regional director, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (class of 2013); 2017: Scott Foster, attorney, Bulkley Richardson (class of 2011), and Nicole Griffin, owner, ManeHire (class of 2014); 2016: Dr. Jonathan Bayuk, president, Allergy & Immunology Associates of New England (class of 2008); 2015: Delcie Bean, president, Paragus Strategic IT (class of 2008).

The 2024 Alumni Achievement Award finalists will be profiled in the June 10 edition of BusinessWest, and the honoree will be announced at the 40 Under Forty gala on June 20. The presenting sponsor of the Alumni Achievement Award is Health New England.

The nomination form is available at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/alumniachievementaward. Only nominations submitted to BusinessWest on this form will be considered. The deadline is Friday, May 10 at 5 p.m., no exceptions. For your convenience, a list of the past 40 Under Forty classes may be found at businesswest.com/40-under-forty/40underforty.

For more information, call Melissa Hallock, Marketing and Events manager, at (413) 781-8600, ext. 100, or e-mail [email protected].

Jie Chen of Dietz & Company Earns Architecture License

Jie Chen

SPRINGFIELD — Dietz & Company Architects announced that Jie Chen, AIA has completed the Architectural Registration Examination and met all of the requirements for architectural licensure in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Chen joined Dietz & Company in 2017 as an architectural associate upon graduating with her master of architecture degree from UMass Amherst. Since then, she has grown within the company and shown her talent and enthusiasm working on a variety of projects in the hospitality, public, and multi-family housing sectors. Now as a licensed architect, she has been promoted from her role as architectural staff to the position of architect.

Cambridge College Launches MBA Degree in Spanish

BOSTON — Cambridge College has launched a master of business administration (MBA) degree program taught in Spanish for learners looking to delve into the rigor and complexity of graduate-level business courses in their native language.

The MBA in Spanish is a 36-credit program delivered completely online. It can be completed in 18 months, with students devoting their focus to just one course per five-week session.

“Our MBA in Spanish represents our ongoing commitment to meet the needs of the diverse working adults we serve and provide them with another option for accessing a valuable and practical education,” said Santiago Mendez-Hernandez, director of the program. “For so many of our students who work, parent, and are living busy lives, the ability to do graduate work in Spanish enables them to get more out of the material and the experience of being in graduate school.”

As of 2021, it was estimated that 2.6 million Spanish speakers have recently (within the past five years) immigrated to the U.S.; 27% of them have bachelor’s degrees, compared to 37.7% of the entire U.S. population.

“These learners bring knowledge, experience, and a multicultural perspective to the business world, and they are motivated to advance their careers,” Mendez-Hernandez said. “This is an additional, accessible resource that helps them engage deeply, take a lead in classroom collaborations, and ultimately apply their backgrounds to taking on leadership roles in growing businesses.”

Being multilingual an important asset in the global business sector. According to a recent survey by Schwartz Insurance and reported by the Financial Post, bilingual or multilingual employees, particularly those who speak Spanish, earn 5% to 20% more than their monolingual colleagues.

In addition to all coursework being conducted in Spanish, Cambridge College also provides support and advising in Spanish. The MBA in Spanish program is currently accepting applications, and fall-term classes begin Sept. 2.

UMassFive Collecting Personal-care Items for Local Survival Centers

HADLEY — During the month of May, the Hadley, Northampton, and Springfield Mercy Medical Center branches of UMassFive College Federal Credit Union are holding a personal-care items drive to benefit the pantries of the Amherst Survival Center, Northampton Survival Center, and the Gray House. Items collected will be provided, for free, to neighbors in need.

“We know that the economy has created challenges for many families in balancing how they will afford basic needs like food with other basic needs like personal-care items,” said Cait Murray, Community Outreach manager at UMassFive. “Our goal in supporting the personal-care pantries of these organizations is to help ensure our neighbors don’t have to make those impossible choices.”

UMassFive welcomes the community to drop off donations of unopened shampoo and conditioner, shaving supplies, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, toilet paper, baby diapers, menstrual products, bed and bladder pads, and adult incontinence briefs through May 31. Items can be full, travel, or hospitality sized, and may be dropped off at 200 Westgate Center Dr., Hadley; 225 King St., Northampton; or 233 Carew St. (Rehabilitation Building, Room 110), Springfield.

Legacy Counsellors, P.C. Celebrates 30 Years in Business

EASTHAMPTON — On April 19, Legacy Counsellors, P.C. celebrated 30 years in business with a celebration at Springfield Country Club. In attendance were the firm’s two partners, Kevin Quinn and Michael Gove, as well as Legacy’s attorneys and support staff, clients, and professional partners such as CPAs, financial advisors, bankers, real-estate agents, and more.

Everyone celebrated with drinks and hors d’oeuvres, a slideshow of the firm’s memorable moments, raffle prizes, and a speech from Quinn, the firm’s founder. Also during the event, Quinn launched his new book, titled Everyone You Love, Everything You Have.

Legacy Counsellors, P.C. is an estate-planning and real-estate law firm with offices in Easthampton, Ludlow, Amherst, Sturbridge, and Northampton, as well as Bloomfield, Conn. It offers services such as estate planning, real-estate transactions and landlord representation, supplemental needs planning, elder law, Medicaid planning, and more.

Holyoke Community College, I Found Light Against All Odds Sign Pact

By BusinessWest Staff May 1, 2024