Springfield, Mass. – The spotlight is shining bright at 52 Sumner as the Springfield venue shares an exciting lineup of upcoming performances that blend world class talent, returning favorites, and community driven programming. With something for every audience, the coming weeks promise unforgettable experiences, highlighted by a major Broadway event that is not to be missed.
Two remarkable shows lead the line-up this weekend:
The Best of Broadway with Meredith Patterson and Dustin Brayley – Saturday, Southampton, Mass. – The Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage is proud to open the doors to their new space, designed to better serve and support the community. They warmly invite community members to attend their Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the end of this month and celebrate this exciting new chapter together.
WHAT: The Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage invites the community to their Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony as they open their doors to their new space.WHEN: Thursday,
HAMPDEN, MA — State Senator Jake Oliveira (Ludlow-D) joined the Hampden Select Board on Monday evening to present $90,000 in state funding to support critical security improvements at Hampden Town Hall, reinforcing safety, accessibility, and day-to-day operations at the town’s primary government facility.The funding, secured by Senator Oliveira in the FY26 State Budget, will allow the Town of Hampden to implement a modern electronic access control system throughout the building, including key fob entry Laughter, connection, and community pride as Monson Savings Bank welcomed local nonprofit partners to its Community Giving Initiative Reception.Monson, MA – Laughter, connection, and community pride filled the room as Monson Savings Bank joyfully welcomed local nonprofit partners to its Community Giving Initiative Reception at the Bank’s Loan and Operations Center. The celebratory evening brought together nonprofit leaders, community members, and Bank leadership to honor the organizations chosen by the When: 2:00 PM Monday, May 4th, 2026 Where: South Hadley Fire District 1 Station 144 Newton Street, South Hadley, MA 01075
What: State Senator Jake Oliveira (Ludlow-D) will present a ceremonial $50,000 check to Acting Fire Chief Jason Houle of the South Hadley Fire Department District 1 to support critical radio and communications upgrades.
The funding was secured by Senator Oliveira in the FY26 State Budget to strengthen emergency response capabilities and modernize communication systems for first Springfield, MA — American International College (AIC) today announced a comprehensive transfer support initiative for students affected by the closure of Anna Maria College at the conclusion of the Spring 2026 semester. The initiative is designed to provide a seamless transition for students seeking to continue their academic programs without disruption.
“At AIC, our priority is ensuring that students can continue their education with clarity, stability, and support,” said Nicolle Cestero, President of When: 6:00 PM Monday, April 27th, 2026WHERE: Hampden Town Hall 85 Wilbraham Road, Hampden, MA What: State Senator Jake Oliveira will join the Hampden Select Board on Tuesday, May 27th, at 6:00 PM to present a $90,000 check supporting critical security upgrades at Hampden Town Hall. The check will be formally presented to Select Board Chairperson John Flynn, recognizing funding secured by Senator Oliveira in the FY26 State Budget for security improvements that will enhance safety, accessibility, and Chicopee, MA - The Good Dog Spot recently made a monetary donation to Thomas J. O'Conner Animal Shelter in honor of Animal Control Appreciation Week.Celebrated annually during the second full week of April, this celebratory holiday honors the dedicated professionals who ensure the safety of pets, wildlife, and people. In 2026, this week was observed from April 12-18.
Photo attached. Caption: Elizabeth & Cory Staples, alongside Shannon O'Connell, present their donation to Thomas J. O'Connor.For other April 9, 2026, Agawam, MA - A group of local eldercare agencies and facilities is sponsoring “Nacho Average Wellness,” Thursday, May 7 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m.at Heritage Woods, 464 Main St., Agawam.
The event is designed to offer caregivers and professionals time to step away from their busy lives, reconnect with themselves, and connect with others, according to Chantal Bernard, founder of Chanda Care, one of the sponsors.
The featured topic of the evening is “Don’t be a Burnt Taco: How to Come Back to
Hampden, MA - Join us for the Feast in the East 2026, an extraordinary event that brings together over 300 guests and showcases the incredible talents of vendors throughout the Pioneer Valley.This is a unique opportunity to sample a diverse array of cuisines from local restaurants, confectioners, breweries, wineries, and other libations.
Event Details:Date:Tuesday, April 28th, 2026Time:5 PM - 8 PMLocation: The Starting Gate at Great Horse, 128 Wilbraham Road, Hampden, MA
Proceeds from this Two-Time AIC Graduate Devonte Dillion ’17, MBA ’19, Will Deliver the Alumni Address
SPRINGFIELD, MA – American International College (AIC) will celebrate its 141st Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Mass Mutual Center in Springfield. President Nicole Cestero will preside over the ceremony.
Femita Ayanbeku, a world-class Paralympian, advocate, and proud AIC alumna, will deliver the Commencement address to undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral recipients in the Class of Monson, MA – Monson Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Stacee Duda has joined the Bank as Assistant Branch Manager, bringing extensive banking leadership experience and a strong commitment to community engagement. Duda brings more than 30 years of experience in retail banking, branch operations, and customer-focused leadership. In her role, she supports daily service operations of the Wilbraham Branch, provides employee development support to the branch team, and works closely with customers to BOSTON, MA — State Senator Jake Oliveira (Ludlow-D) announced today that he has secured targeted investments for local schools and infrastructure across the Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester District as part of the Massachusetts Senate’s $1.57 billion Fair Share supplemental budget.The legislation combines direct investments in education and transportation with policy changes to lower housing costs, strengthen the primary care workforce, and provide relief to cities and towns facing rising Springfield, Mass – February 5, 2026 — AnnieMac Home Mortgage is pleased to announce the hiring of Janna McLaughlin as a new Branch Manager, strengthening the company’s growing presence across Western Massachusetts.
A longtime Western Massachusetts resident, Janna has called Agawam, Massachusetts home for more than 20 years. She is a proud mom to her daughter Chloe and son Jackson, and brings professional expertise and deep local roots to her new role.Advancing through increasingly responsible roles Springfield, Mass. –The Applied Mortgage Team of HMA Mortgage is proud to announce that Lindsay Barron LaBonte, Branch Manager and Senior Loan Officer of the Applied Mortgage team, was honored recently with two astounding awards: she was recognized as one of the Loan Officer’s of the Year by the Massachusetts Mortgage Bankers Associationand Best of the Valley’s Best of 2026 Podcaster. These prestigious honors recognize Lindsay’s exceptional achievements in the mortgage industry as well as her community
Monson, MA – Monson Savings Bank is pleased to announce that Jacob Johnson has joined the Bank as Assistant Branch Manager of the Hampden Branch.
Johnson brings a strong background in customer-focused relationship management and financial services to Monson Savings Bank. In his role, he supports the day-to-day operations of the Hampden Branch, assists with staff development, and works directly with customers to provide a full range of personal and business banking solutions. He is focused on delivering Recognizing years of service and a culture rooted in appreciation. These 12 dedicated individuals, whose tenure ranges from 5 to 20 years, collectively represent an extraordinary 115 years of loyalty and service to Monson Savings Bank and local communities.
Monson, MA - Monson Savings Bank recognizes that its team members are the foundation of the community bank’s enduring success. With a steadfast commitment to valuing and celebrating its employees, the Bank meets their contributions with recognition and April 3, 2026, Chicopee, MA — Polish National Credit Union is participating in an FHLBank Boston program designed to make homeownership more affordable for lower-income borrowers.By participating in the Permanent Rate Buydown program, Polish National Credit Union can reduce the mortgage interest rates paid by borrowers earning up to 80% of area median income by up to 2%. The Permanent Rate Buydown product is available through FHLBank Boston’s Mortgage Partnership Finance® (MPF®) Program, which purchases
HOLYOKE, MA —Girls Inc. of the Valley will host a Grand Opening Celebration at its newly renovated headquarters in Holyoke, marking a major milestone in expanding opportunities for girls across the region to grow up strong, smart, and bold.
The event will honor the donors, partners, and community members whose support made the transformation possible, including securing $7.25 million through the fundraising effort led by the organization to fund the building’s renovation, while showcasing how the new West Springfield, MA, April 6, 2026 - Baystate Winair, located at 78 Kelso Avenue, West Springfield, isProud to announce that Dan Suse will assume the role of President. With a robust background in the industry and a deep commitment to customer service, Dan is ready to lead Baystate Winair into its next chapter while upholding the values that have made it a trusted name in the region.
As the only wholesale in the area that combines the benefits of local accountability with the resources of a nationwide BOSTON — State Senator Jake Oliveira (Ludlow-D) is applauding the Massachusetts Senate’s unanimous passage of S.3029, An Act fostering agricultural resilience in Massachusetts, emphasizing its importance for Western Massachusetts and the region’s agricultural economy.
The legislation, commonly referred to as the FARM Bill, passed during the Senate’s formal session on Wednesday and makes significant investments in local farms, strengthens food access programs, and supports long-term agricultural
Please note: In all, 12 of Beacon Bank’s 148 branches are in the Pioneer Valley. They are in Springfield (3), Westfield (2), West Springfield, Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, South Hadley, Southwick and Agawam.
For Immediate ReleaseMedia Contact:Alison Skratt, Corporate CommunicationsCommunications@BeaconBank.com413.769.6007
Beacon Bank invests $2.6 million in local nonprofits in 2025
SPRINGFIELD, Massachusetts, April 2, 2026 — Beacon Bank and the bank’s foundation BOSTON – State Senator Jake Oliveira (Ludlow-D) is inviting residents to visit a new exhibit now on display in the Massachusetts State House Senate Gallery, titled "Quabbin – Yesterday and Today," which highlights the history, legacy, and natural beauty of the Quabbin Reservoir region.
"Whether you're planning a trip to the State House during school vacation week or just looking for a reason to stop by Beacon Hill, this exhibit offers a terrific opportunity to connect with a defining piece of Western BOSTON — On Wednesday, State Senator Jake Oliveira (Ludlow-D) addressed participants at the 91st Citizens’ Legislative Seminar (CLS) at the Massachusetts State House, while also welcoming invited attendees from across his district for the two-day program focused on the state legislative process.Among those representing the district were Library Directors Joe Rodio of South Hadley and Stephanie Maher of Palmer, who attended the seminar at Senator Oliveira’s invitation. The program included two days of In a nod to their alma mater, UMass Amherst alumni Joe and Michael Maruca created a custom UMass bottle of extra virgin olive oil
East Longmeadow, MA (March 31, 2026) — UMass Amherst alumni and TRE Olive owners Joe and Michael Maruca announce the new release of a custom UMass 500 mL bottle of extra virgin olive oil.The UMass bottle features the award-winning TRE Olive Select, a well-balanced extra virgin olive oil that is slightly sharp and has a peppery finish. It’s made with 100% Carolea olives that are
Most small businesses in the East of the River Five Town communities don't have a large agency retainer to call on. Industry research shows that 71% of businesses with annual revenue under $500,000 spend under $500 monthly on branding — confirming that a meaningful refresh has to fit the reality of lean operations. The good news: the highest-impact moves often cost nothing.The Myth of the Big Marketing Budget
If you've been putting off a brand refresh because it seems expensive, that assumption is When Smart Isn’t Enough — Why Risk Still Rules
Even the sharpest founders can lose their footing when uncertainty strikes. Markets pivot. Regulations tighten. A key employee vanishes just before launch. Risk management isn’t about paranoia—it’s about precision. It’s the discipline of knowing what could go wrong and ensuring it doesn’t derail what’s going right.Snapshot
If you only read this part, remember this: smart founders manage risk through structure, not instinct. The most resilient businesses do
In the relentless pace of today’s business world, the ability to refine and enhance workflows is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Businesses that prioritize strategic workflow improvements can achieve remarkable gains in productivity and growth. By integrating advanced tools and methodologies, companies can streamline operations, reduce inefficiencies, and empower their teams to focus on high-impact tasks. Below, this article delves into innovative strategies that can transform your business processes,
Join the ERC5 Chamber of Commerce today and be part of a thriving business community dedicated to fostering economic growth in East Longmeadow, Hampden, Longmeadow, Ludlow, and Wilbraham.
When your business hits a rough patch, it can feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The pressure to stay afloat, maintain morale, and find a way forward can be overwhelming. However, tough times are often the catalyst for innovation and resilience. By taking deliberate and strategic steps, you can
Creating an effective sales pitch and marketing strategy is crucial in today's competitive landscape. By employing strategic techniques, you can enhance engagement and improve your chances of success with potential customers. Mastering these essential aspects of your business will set you apart and drive your initiatives forward. Here's a helpful guide on how to excel in these critical areas.Establishing Trust with Customer Endorsements
Building trust is essential, and leveraging customer testimonials-(002).png){kind=logo}
52 Sumner Takes Center Stage with Must See Performances and a Showstopping Broadway Event
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Applied Mortgage is Officially Opening Their New Space this Month The Community is Invited to Attend Their Open House & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Senator Oliveira Presents $90,000 to Hampden for Town Hall Security Upgrades
News Release: 4/30/2026
Media Advisory - Senator Jake Oliveira to Present $50,000 for South Hadley Fire District 1 Communications Upgrades
American International College Announces Transfer Pathways and Support for Anna Maria College Students
Senator Jake Oliveira to Present $90,000 to Hampden Select Board for Town Hall Security Improvements
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The Good Dog Spots Presents Check to Thomas J. O'Connor In Honor of Animal Control Appreciation Week
‘Nacho Average Wellness’ Event at Heritage Woods
Feast in the East: A Culinary Celebration with a Purpose
American International College Celebrates Its 141st Commencement Featuring Keynote Speaker Femita Ayanbeku
Monson Savings Bank Welcomes Stacee Duda as Assistant Branch Manager of Wilbraham Branch
Senator Jake Oliveira Secures Targeted Fair Share Investments for Local Schools and Infrastructure Across Western Massachusetts
AnnieMac Home Mortgage Welcomes Janna McLaughlin as New Branch Manager
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Applied Mortgage’s Lindsay Barron LaBonte Honored with Two Recent Awards
Monson Savings Bank Welcomes Jacob Johnson as Assistant Branch Manager of Hampden Branch
Monson Savings Bank Celebrates Employee Milestones with Years of Service Recognition
Polish National Credit Union offers assistance to homebuyers through FHLBank Boston Mortgage Rate Reduction Program
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Girls Inc. of the Valley Celebrates Grand Opening of Newly Renovated Holyoke Headquarters, Invites Media Coverage
Baystate Winair Announces Dan Suse as New President, Strengthening Commitment to Local Accountability and Customer Service
Senator Oliveira Applauds Senate Passage of FARM Bill, Highlights Impact on Western Massachusetts and Regional Equity
Beacon Bank invests $2.6 million in local nonprofits in 2025
Senator Oliveira invites residents to visit a new exhibit by Belchertown photographer on display in the Massachusetts State House Senate Gallery
Senator Jake Oliveira Speaks at 91st Citizens’ Legislative Seminar, Welcomes District Participants
TRE Olive Releases a Custom University of Massachusetts Bottle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Brand Refresh on a Budget: What Actually Works for Small Businesses in Western Massachusetts
Resilient by Design: Practical Risk Management for Small Business Owners
Drive Growth with These Intelligent Workflow Adjustments
Bouncing Back: Proven Strategies for Businesses to Survive and Thrive in Adversity
Marketing Excellence: Creating Sales Pitches that Resonate and Convert
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