News

Meet the 2025 Women of Impact

 SPRINGFIELD — The Women of Impact class of 2025 has been announced by BusinessWest. This year’s honorees are: Tara Brewster, Vice President of Business Development and Director of Philanthropy, Greenfield Savings BankAyanna Crawford, President, AC Consulting and Media ServicesTracy Friedenberg, Executive Director, Bacon Wilson, P.C.Rania Kfuri, Vice President for Philanthropy, Sales, and Marketing, GlenmeadowChelsea Kline, Executive Director, Cancer ConnectionAngelina Ramirez, CEO, Stavros Center for

Country Bank Contributes to Local Schools with Back-to-School Donations

October 24, 2025 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce its recent donation of $250 Visa gift cards to 44 local schools, totaling $11,000. These schools have been long-standing partners in our financial literacy initiatives, and this contribution aims to support teachers and students as they head into the new academic year.“At Country Bank, we remain passionate about helping students build confidence in managing their money and

Monson Savings Bank Invites Community to Celebrate East Longmeadow Branch’s 5-Year Anniversary

On Thursday, November 6th, 2025, the East Longmeadow Branch will commemorate five years of proudly serving the local community.   MONSON, MA - Monson Savings Bank is thrilled to celebrate a special milestone! On Thursday, November 6th, 2025, the East Longmeadow Branch will commemorate five years of proudly serving the local community.   To mark the occasion, the East Longmeadow Branch will host anniversary celebrations during regular business hours, 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. Community members are warmly

52 Sumner Announces the Fall Line-up of Shows

There’s music, theater, Symphony sounds, networking, performance art, & more  Springfield, Mass. – 52 Sumner, managed by Springfield Performing Arts Ventures, Inc. (SPAV), has quickly become Springfield’s premier live performance venue. The historic venue continues to cement its place as a cultural destination for music lovers and arts enthusiasts throughout the region. They showcase events, shows, and community celebrations that vary in appeal – meaning there is truly something for EVERYONE.  The fall

Visual Sound Productions, Inc. and Partners Host Fifth Annual Trunk or Treat

Lots of Halloween fun for a boo-tiful cause!  SPRINGFIELD, Mass., – Visual Sound Productions (VSP) is thrilled to announce its partnership with Dazzle Dance Studio and Fitness First for the fifth annual Trunk or Treat celebration. This year, the team is brewing up even more Halloween fun while supporting neighbors in need by collecting nonperishable items to benefit Rachel’s Table. Everyone is invited to join in for all treats (no tricks) and help make sure no one in the community goes hungry.  This

Janice D. Pirog Promoted to Digital Systems Manager at Monson Savings Bank

MONSON, MA – Monson Savings Bank is proud to announce the promotion of Janice D. Pirog to Digital Systems Manager. In her new role, Janice will oversee the workflow operations of digital banking products and services, while also managing and training employees within the eBanking Department.   Pirog brings a wealth of experience to her new position. She has worked in the finance and banking industry for 33 years, including 23 years with Monson Savings Bank. Her deep understanding of banking operations and

THE BOSTON BUSINESS JOURNAL RECOGNIZES COUNTRY BANK FOR ITS CHARITABLE GIVING

Ware, MA – October 20, 2025 – Country Bank, a full-service financial institution serving Central and Western Massachusetts, is pleased to announce that The Boston Business Journal has once again named Country Bank an honoree in its annual 2024 Corporate Citizenship Awards, recognizing the region's top corporate charitable contributors.The Business Journal annually publishes this list to highlight companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities.“It is with honor that we present our

Friends of Children, Inc. to host Artisan Market on November 16

FLORENCE, MA – OCTOBER 2025 – Friends of Children, Inc. is hosting its first ever Artisan Market on Sunday, November 16 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Garden House at Look Park, 300 N. Main Street in Florence, MA. This juried artisan event will feature 30 local creators, food vendors, and a silent online auction with a great selection of local seasonal experiences to bid on. All proceeds from the fund-raiser will benefit children and young adults affected by the child welfare system. “We are excited to

YPS 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) hosted the Up Next Summit today, a first-time leadership event designed to empower, inspire, and connect the region’s rising professionals. The event sold out two days prior and saw over 100 attendees at MGM Springfield.   Up Next was more than a conference: It was a movement where leadership potential meets opportunity. Designed to bring

Berkshire Bank Foundation Invested Nearly $400,000 in Local Nonprofits

Please note: 12 of Berkshire's 83 financial centers are in the Pioneer Valley. They are in Springfield (3), Westfield (2), West Springfield, Longmeadow, East Longmeadow, Ludlow, South Hadley, Southwick and Agawam.  Cutline for attached photo: The Berkshire Bank Foundation supports many Pioneer Valley nonprofits, including Way Finders Inc. in Springfield. SPRINGFIELD, Massachusetts, Oct. 15, 2025 — The Berkshire Bank Foundation invested nearly $400,000 in its communities through grants to 96 nonprofit

Realtors and Contractors Invited to Explore Renovation and ADU Strategies

Event highlights renovation mortgage programs and practical tools for creating new housing inventory  Northampton, MA – The Applied Mortgage Team, a branch of HMA Mortgage, is looking forward to hosting Inventory Starts Here: Renovation and ADU Strategies, a special lunch and learn event. This initiative is designed to provide realtors, contractors, and housing professionals with actionable knowledge to better leverage renovation mortgage programs in today’s competitive market.  EVENT DETAILSWHAT:

D. Hotel Completes Renovations, Offering Guests a Fresh and Modern Experience

Holyoke, MA –  The D. Hotel & Suites, a 60-room boutique hotel located on the grounds of The Delaney House, is proud to announce the completion of a series of renovations designed to enhance comfort, security, and style for its guests. The project, which began in January 2025 and concluded recently, brings a fresh, modern feel to the property while preserving its boutique charm.The extensive updates include a reimagined breakfast area, providing guests with a welcoming and contemporary space to start their

We Do Travel Right Invites HCS Head Start to a Special Exclusive Screening of Disney’s Zootopia 2

Longmeadow, Mass. – We Do Travel Right, a leading Massachusetts-based travel agency specializing in everything from domestic getaways and family vacations to international escapes, is proud to host a special premiere of Disney’sZootopia 2 exclusively for HCS Head Start children and families. At its core, this event reflects the mission at We Do Travel Right: to uplift the local community, spark connection, and create joyful, lasting memories for everyone involved.   We Do Travel Right (WDTR) is a boutique

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,