News

AIC Announces Key Leadership Promotions

SPRINGFIELD, MA – American International College (AIC) has promoted Michael Dodge to Provost and Michael Eriquezzo to Vice President for Marketing and Communications, building on the success of the College’s leadership team. “Both Michael Dodge and Michael Eriquezzo bring valuable experience and proven results to their new roles,” said President Nicolle Cestero. “These promotions recognize effective, impactful leadership and strengthen our organizational structure as we continue to grow and serve our

Quabbin Days Launch Ceremony – Friday, October 10, 2025

WHAT: The inaugural launch of Quabbin Days will take place on Friday, October 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Les and Terry Campbell Visitor Center, 100 Winsor Road, Belchertown. This event will officially kick off a four-day regional celebration (October 10–13) of the Quabbin’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community spirit.  WHO: Confirmed speakers at this point include: State Senator Jo Comerford (Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester Districts)State Senator Jake Oliveira (Hampden, Hampshire,

Rooted in Fiber, Growing for the Future: The Markens Group, Inc. Announces Ownership Transition to Emily Leonczyk

Springfield, MA, September 12, 2025 —The Markens Group, Inc. (TMG), a nationally accredited Association Management Company headquartered in Springfield, has announced a transition in ownership to Emily Leonczyk, CAE, MBA. For many clients and community partners, this news will come as no surprise: Leonczyk has been leading day-to-day operations for more than three years. She now serves as President and CEO, assuming full ownership and carrying forward a legacy of excellence and growth established by founder

National Roller Skating Month’s 2025 Campaign: Lace Up, Wheels Down, Let’s Skate!

Springfield, MA September 19, 2025 – Interskate 91 South is excited to join the Roller Skating Association (RSA) in celebrating National Roller Skating Month this October with the theme: “Lace Up, Wheels Down, Let’s Skate!” This year’s campaign is all about encouraging people of all ages to discover—or rediscover—the fun, fitness, and community that roller skating brings. From beginners to lifelong skaters, October is the perfect time to get rolling! Upcoming Events • Learn to Skate Day – October 4,

Holyoke, Chicopee, Springfield Head Start’s Churchill Center Hosts Family Health Fair

Holyoke, MA – HCS Head Start’s Churchill Center recently welcomed enrolled families to a Health Fair, offering resources and information to support the well-being of children and families. The event was held at 41 Commercial Street in Holyoke and featured a variety of local health providers and community partners.  Participants included representatives from the Holyoke Health Center, WIC, J&S Smile Pros, and the HCS Head Start Mental Health team. Families also had the opportunity to engage with fire safety

Monson Savings Bank Welcomes Brett R. Charron as Mortgage Loan Originator

MONSON, MA – Monson Savings Bank is proud to welcome Brett R. Charron to its Residential Lending Team as a Mortgage Loan Originator. With seven years of experience in the mortgage and finance industry, Charron brings a strong background in loan processing, customer service, and community engagement to his new role. In his position, Charron will focus on originating residential mortgages and helping individuals and families in local communities achieve their dream of homeownership. His previous experience

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony and Open House at Delight Dental Studio: Meet Dr. Mayank and Celebrate a New Addition to the East Longmeadow Community!

East Longmeadow, MA – On Saturday, October 25th, at 10:00 a.m., Delight Dental Studio will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by an open house to celebrate the grand opening of its state-of-the-art practice.  This event marks a significant moment for the community as we welcome Dr. Mayank, the founder of Delight Dental Studios, and his dedicated team.  Located at 124 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow, Delight Dental Studio is eager to connect with the East Longmeadow community.  Attendees will have the

JGS Lifecare Announces 2025 Annual Community Meeting Thursday, October 9, 2025 Rabbi Devorah Jacobsdon to receive Chair’s Service Award

 LONGMEADOW, Mass. – JGS Lifecare, a leading health care system serving seniors and their families, will hold its 2025 Annual Community Meeting on Thursday, October 9, 2025 at the Leavitt Family Jewish Home, 770 Converse Street, Longmeadow, MA.  Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served at 5:30 PM in Michael’s Café.  The Annual Meeting will commence at 6:30 PM in the Hy and Roz Gloth Auditorium.  The community is encouraged to participate.  Event Details:Date: Thursday, October 9, 2025Location:

Meet Dr. Mayank: Your New Smile Expert at Delightful Dental Company

    Dr. Mayank is the founder of Delight Dental Studio, a practice committed to delivering compassionate, modern dental care tailored to each patient. An international dental graduate, Dr. Mayank earned his Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree before advancing his education in the United States. He holds a Master’s in Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University (2013) and completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) at New York University College of Dentistry in 2016.   With over

Join the Fun at the Westover Run the Runway 2025 Event

Join the Fun at the Westover Run the Runway 2025 EventProceeds support Westover Galaxy Community CouncilChicopee, MA – September 30, 2025 – Runners and walkers of all ages are lacing up their sneakers for the Westover Run the Runway 2025, happening Sunday, October 5, 2025, at Westover Metro Airport, Chicopee, MA 01020. Hosted by the Westover Metro Airport, Westover ARB and Westover Galaxy Community Council, the event kicks off at 8:45 AM and raises funds for Westover Galaxy Community Council. Participants

BusinessWest Adds New Dimensions to BusinessTalk Podcast

A One-Day Leadership Experience for Emerging Leaders

Tickets Now Available for the Young Professional Society (YPS) Up Next Summit  Springfield, MA – The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) is proud to announce the launch of the Up Next Summit, a first-time leadership event designed to empower, inspire, and connect the region’s rising professionals. This first-of-its-kind event will take place on Thursday, October 16 at MGM Springfield, and tickets are now on sale - click here.   Up Next is more than a conference.It's a movement where

Monson Savings Bank’s Annual Community Giving Initiative Returns - Voting Opens Tomorrow

Monson Savings Bank’s annual Community Giving Initiative is returning. The local bank is providing the public the chance to choose which non-profit charitable organizations will receive donations in 2026. Voting opens tomorrow, October 1, 2025.  Monson, MA – Monson Savings Bank prides itself on supporting the local communities. With the season of giving right around the corner, Monson Savings Bank is inviting the public to submit their votes for the Bank’s 2026 Community Giving Initiative.   For more

Something Old Really Can Become New Again Local entrepreneur & nationally recognized DJ commits to k

 Springfield, Mass. — The time has FINALLY come for a legendary building (circa 1896) that was once a church, a sign shop, and a non-profit before being vacant for many years; to open its doors. Nicole Nell, President of Visual Sound Productions, Inc. (VSP), an award winning, multi-operational production company, purchased 130 Union Street in Springfield, Mass., a few years ago and has magically transformed the long abandoned building into the stunning and vibrant headquarters of her award winning,

Springfield Community Theater & 52 Sumner Partner with Alianza DV Services

Honoring Domestic Violence Awareness Month with a powerful, one-night only presentation  Springfield, Mass. – In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Springfield Community Theater will present To The Moon, a compelling docudrama based on hundreds of survivor’s stories. The special performance will benefit Alianza DV Services, a leading provider of domestic violence support services in Western Massachusetts.  EVENT DETAILS:WHAT: To The Moon, written by playwright Beth Kander and directed by

Fall Job Fair to be Held on JGS Lifecare Campus

 Wednesday, October 1st from 2 PM to 5 PM   LONGMEADOW, Mass. – JGS Lifecare, a leading health care system serving seniors and their families and an affiliate of  Legacy Lifecare, is holding  a job fair on Wednesday, October 1st from 2pm to 5pm at Ruth’s House Assisted Living, located a 780 Converse Street in Longmeadow.  "We are excited to welcome job seekers to our upcoming Job Fair,” said Mary-Anne Schelb HHP, Regional Director Business Development WMA & CT Markets at Ruth’s House Assisted Living. “JGS

Chikmedia Welcomes Marketing Strategist and Content Creator Julianne Fruscio as New Content Produce

Springfield, MA — Chikmedia, a boutique firm specializing in marketing, public relations, branding, and design, is thrilled to announce the addition of Julianne Fruscio to its growing creative team, as a Content Producer. With over a decade of expertise in marketing strategy, social media, and brand development, Julianne brings a proven ability to craft impactful content that drives engagement, strengthens brand presence, and fuels growth. Julianne is a seasoned marketing director, social media

to Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services' Emergency Food Pantry

Monson Savings Bank’s President & CEO Dan Moriarty (far left) and AVP Community Lending Officer Wil Morales, who also serves on the board for Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services (far right), proudly presented the Bank’s donation to Martin Luther King, Jr. Family Services’ CEO Shannon M. Rudder (center left) and Chief Development Officer Claudia Pazmany (center right). Monson, MA – Monson Savings Bank proudly announced a $10,000 donation to the Emergency Food Pantry operated by Martin Luther King, Jr.

American International College Recognized in 2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings fo

SPRINGFIELD, MA – American International College (AIC) has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report in the 2026 Best Colleges rankings for leadership in advancing social mobility. This is the third consecutive year AIC has earned this distinction, reflecting the College’s commitment to providing students from all backgrounds with access to life-changing opportunities through higher education. Social mobility is a key measure in the U.S. News rankings, showing how effectively colleges help students

Emerald Cities Collaborative and Western Mass EDC Award Over $100,000 in Clean Energy Grants to E-Contractor Academy Graduates

Springfield, MA – Building on the momentum of last fall’s E-Contractor Academy graduation, Emerald Cities Collaborative (ECC), and the Western Mass Economic Development Council (EDC) are proud to announce a total of $100,500 in direct investments to support 16 emerging Minority- and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBEs) across Massachusetts. These strategic investments will help local contractors expand their capacity and adopt sustainable practices in the fast-growing clean energy and decarbonization

Country Bank Donates $4,000 to Support Longmeadow First Responders

Longmeadow, MA – September 22, 2025 - Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, is proud to announce they donated a total of $4,000 to the Town of Longmeadow’s public-safety agencies last week. Two separate gifts of $2,000 were presented to the Longmeadow Police Department and the Longmeadow Fire Department by Melissa Stefanowich, AVP, Retail Banking Officer and Angelica Coelho, Assistant Manager at the Bank’s Longmeadow Banking Center. “It was an honor

Polish National Credit Union Announces Michael Sugrue as President & Key Promotions

Chicopee, MA – September 18, 2025 – Polish National Credit Union (PNCU) is pleased to announce that its Board of Directors has selected Michael Sugrue, current Executive Vice President, as the next President, effective September 17, 2025.  Following the retirement of current President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) James P. Kelly on May 31, 2026, Sugrue will assume the CEO title.  This strategic succession plan, developed over five years, ensures PNCU’s commitment to its members and community. James

Senator Oliveira presents $100,000 to Belcher Elementary School from the Chicopee Delegation

 Chicopee, MA — On Tuesday, Senator Jake Oliveira (D-Ludlow) presented Chicopee Public Schools Superintendent Marcus Ware and Belcher Elementary School Principal Samuel Karlin a ceremonial check of $100,000 from the Chicopee Delegation for HVAC upgrades at Belcher Elementary. The funds, secured through the Fair Share supplemental budget, will modernize Belcher Elementary's heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, helping to provide a healthier and more comfortable learning environment for

Westfield Bank Promotes Kelly Pignatare to First Vice President, Manager of Retail Banking and Business & Government Deposit Services

Westfield, MA— Westfield Bank is proud to announce the promotion of Kelly Pignatare to First Vice President, Manager of Retail Banking and Business & Government Deposit Services.   Pignatare has over two decades of banking experience, in both retail and business capacities. In her new role, she will drive deposit and loan growth, as well as customer service excellence, across all Westfield Bank branch locations, and the bank’s Business & Government Deposit Services Department, responsible for providing

Meet the Healthcare Heroes Class of 2025

SPRINGFIELD — The Healthcare Heroes class of 2025 has been announced by BusinessWest and HealthcareNews.com. This year, we honor: • Andy Yee Palliative Care Unit at Mercy Medical Center • Areliz Barbosa, Clinical Assistant Professor and Senior Project Coordinator, Bay Path University • Andrea Bertheaud, Clinical Assistant Professor, Elms College • Chrissy Humason, Nursing Supervisor and Stroke Coordinator, Baystate Noble Hospital • Linda Koh, Assistant Professor, Elaine Marieb College of Nursing at

The Applied Mortgage Team at HMA Mortgage Gives Back on HMA Volunteer Day

Local family-legacy branch joins Habitat for Humanity Build Day in Greenfield, MA  Northampton, MA – The Applied Mortgage Team, a branch of HMA Mortgage, is excited to announce its participation in HMA Volunteer Day, a company-wide initiative dedicated to strengthening communities through service. On Thursday, October 2, 2025, the local team will join Pioneer Valley Habitat for Humanity for a Build Day in Greenfield, MA.  After careful consideration, The Applied Mortgage Team recently selected HMA

A One-Day Leadership Experience for Emerging Leaders

A One-Day Leadership Experience for Emerging LeadersTickets Now Available for the Young Professional Society (YPS) Up Next Summit  Springfield, MA – The Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield (YPS) is proud to announce the launch of the Up Next Summit, a first-time leadership event designed to empower, inspire, and connect the region’s rising professionals. This first-of-its-kind event will take place on Thursday, October 16 at MGM Springfield, and tickets are now on sale - click here.   Up

Senator Oliveira, Mayor Vieau, and Superintendent Ware to celebrate $100,000 for Belcher Elementary

When: Tuesday, September 16th, at 9:00 AMWhere: Belcher Elementary School125 Montgomery St, Chicopee, MA 01020https://maps.app.goo.gl/PCfctLUJJHjaCemj8What: Senator Jake Oliveira to present Principal Samuel Karlin of Belcher Elementary School with a ceremonial check of $100,000 to celebrate funds secured for HVAC upgrades at Belcher Elementary. The funds were secured by Senator Oliveira as part of the Fair Share Supplemental budget.Senator Oliveira will be joined by Mayor Vieau, Superintendent Ware, and

Berkshire Bank appoints head of fiduciary services

Berkshire Bank appoints head of fiduciary servicesBoston, Sept.15, 2025 - Berkshire Bank, a division of Beacon Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce the appointment of Janice Ward, Esq., CFP®, as senior vice president and head of fiduciary services to lead the bank’s fiduciary activities including its Trust business.  Before rejoining the bank, Ward was first vice president and trust officer at Greenfield Savings Bank in Massachusetts, where she was a member of the bank’s senior leadership team overseeing

Alzheimer’s Association to Host Walk to End Alzheimer’s® Kickoff in Pioneer Valley

Longmeadow, MA - September 15, 2025 - The Alzheimer’s Association Massachusetts/New Hampshire Chapter will host the Pioneer Valley Walk to End Alzheimer’s Kickoff Event on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the Leavitt Family Jewish Home, 770 Converse Street, Longmeadow, MA. The event, titled Impact of Dementia Across Pioneer Valley, will bring together community members, advocates, and leaders for a morning of conversation and learning about the effects of dementia in the region.Event Details: ●