May 12, 2026 - Country Bank was honored to receive the Chamber Legacy Award at the 2026 QHMA Choice Awards hosted by the Quaboag Hills Chamber of Commerce. This award recognizes organizations that have made a lasting impact through leadership, service, and continued commitment to the local community.This recognition comes on the heels of Country Bank’s 175th anniversary celebration last year, further highlighting the Bank’s longstanding dedication to supporting the communities it serves throughout Central
President and CEO Dan Moriarty recently presented Monson Savings Bank’s $100,000 commitment to YWMA of Western Massachusetts Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth G. Dineen and VP of Communications & Development Tiera Wright in support of their vital Shifting the Paradigm Campaign.
Monson, MA –Monson Savings Bank is proud to announce its support of the YWCA of Western Massachusetts through its transformative “Shifting the Paradigm: Empowering Women & Children, Empowers the Next Generation” campaign - a Monson Savings Bank invites the community to take an important step toward protecting their personal information by attending its FREE Community Shred Day on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Bank’s Monson Branch, 146 Main Street.Monson, MA – Monson Savings Bank invites the community to take an important step toward protecting their personal information by attending its FREE Community Shred Day on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Bank’s Monson Branch, SPRINGFIELD — BusinessWest is proud to celebrate the 20th annual class of its 40 Under Forty awards, the region’s most prestigious recognition program honoring outstanding young professionals who are shaping the future of Western Massachusetts. For two decades, the program has spotlighted emerging leaders under age 40 whose professional achievements, leadership, and community involvement distinguish them among their peers.
With more than 120 unique nominations, the 40 Under Forty class of 2026 honorees
HOLYOKE, MA — Girls Inc. of the Valley celebrated the Grand Opening of its newly renovated headquarters in Holyoke on Thursday, April 30th, marking a major milestone in expanding opportunities for girls across the region to grow up strong, smart, and bold.
The event welcomed the donors, partners, and community members whose support made the transformation possible, including the organization’s successful fundraising campaign, that secured $7.25 million to complete the building’s renovation. The 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,
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 Country Bank Brings Community‑First Banking to Springfield with Grand Opening at Tower SquareSPRINGFIELD, MA — Country Bank is proud to celebrate the grand opening of its new Springfield banking center at 1500 Tower Square, expanding its footprint and deepening its commitment to one of Western Massachusetts’ most dynamic communities.Marked by a lively celebration with city leaders, regional partners, and members of the Springfield business community, the opening highlighted Country Bank’s people‑first 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 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 Xfinity Mobile Launches Mobile Plus and Mobile Select,Redefining Premium Wireless with Lifetime Device Protection Included Premium Mobile Plus Plan Includes Lifetime Device Protection for Any Phone, Tablet, and Smartwatch, Device Upgrades Anytime and Global Travel Pass – In One Simple Industry-Leading Plan Customers Cut Their Mobile Bill in Half When They Switch from the Big Three All Plans Deliver Speeds Up to 1 Gig When Connected to Xfinity WiFi with WiFi PowerBoost and Run on America’s Most Reliable 5G
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
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
Country Bank Receives Chamber Legacy Award at 2026 QHMA Choice Awards
Monson Savings Bank Supports YWCA of Western Massachusetts’ $7.5 Million “Shifting the Paradigm” Campaign with $100K
Monson Savings Bank Announces Free Community Shred Day on June 13
BusinessWest Celebrates 20th Class of 40 Under Forty Honorees
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News Release: 5/4/2026
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52 Sumner Takes Center Stage with Must See Performances and a Showstopping Broadway Event
Senator Oliveira Presents $90,000 to Hampden for Town Hall Security Upgrades
News Release: 4/30/2026
Country Bank Brings Community First Banking to Springfield with Grand Opening at Tower Square
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
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The Good Dog Spots Presents Check to Thomas J. O'Connor In Honor of Animal Control Appreciation Week
Xfinity Mobile Launches Mobile Plus and Mobile Select, Redefining Premium Wireless with Lifetime Device Protection Included
Feast in the East: A Culinary Celebration with a Purpose
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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