Outlook 2022 by repubnews

Outlook 2022 J

| SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

Making It

in Western Massachusetts

wo years into the COVID-19 pandemic, have we found our new “normal”?

What steps are area businesses taking to ensure they have workers to fill the region’s jobs? What are colleges and universities as well as public schools doing to help students enter the workforce prepared to meet the still rapidly changing demands and needs of employers? Is remote work here to stay or a passing need? There are plenty of reasons to believe we are “Making It in Western Massachusetts.” Cities and towns, the state, business and industry, nonprofits, entrepreneurs, colleges and universities, public schools, legislators, chambers of commerce, health care institutions, arts groups and philanthropists, have worked to find innovative ways of “Making It” through the challenges posed by the pandemic. Many of the region’s longtime businesses endure, and new businesses are emerging, all proof positive that “Making It” here is still possible and an everyday reality.

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SECTION L

SECTION M

Manufacturing  Employment

Education  Entrepreneurship

Health Care  Hospitals

Entertainment  Food & Dining

Construction  Springfield Museums

Banking & Finance  Small Business

Agriculture  Success Stories

Automotive  Tourism  Real Estate

Basketball Hall of Fame

Vocational Training

Retail  Small Business

Transportation

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J2 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Technology is critical for WMass future growth

‘M

aking It in Western Massachusetts,” in 2022 and beyond, will certainly be centered on growth: needed growth in population; a growth of the workforce; a growth in the number of active medium and small businesses operating in our communities; and a growth of the variety of sectors doing business in the region. We need to see and feel a holistic growth of the Western Massachusetts economy that needs to be equitable and beneficial for all the residents of the region. The COVID pandemic — while devastating in so many ways — has refocused many employers and employees on the importance of work-life balance and has increased accessible opportunities for telecommuting and remote work. This positions Western Massachusetts as an attractive place when quality of life becomes a deciding factor on where you want to live, raise a family and work from. We therefore have an opportunity for continued growth, however, we can only do so when we invest in our commu-

Richard Sullivan nities, our region. We have an opportunity to immediately invest in building a robust broadband-internet system that reaches all residents and bridges the digital divide. In efforts to attract newcomers and retain our current residents, we must invest in advanced

SEE SULLIVAN, PAGE J9

An aerial photo of the Springfield skyline during the final sundown of 2021. (PATRICK JOHNSON / THE REPUBLICAN)

“In efforts to attract newcomers and retain our current residents, we must invest in advanced technology to give Western Massachusetts the competitive advantage it deserves to thrive in this current economic landscape. This would be the most significant and impactful infrastructure investment we could make as a region.” RICHARD K. SULLIVAN JR., PRESIDENT AND CEO, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL OF WESTERN MASSACHUSETTS

Digital transformation helps region, MassMutual evolve

ince the moment we hastily canceled plans and packed up our work stations in March 2020, we’ve been living in an era of intense uncertainty and change. Here in Springfield — and around the world — we saw our lives upended. We saw longstanding trends accelerate and challenges heighten. And now, as we move into 2022, it’s clear we can continue to expect the unexpected.

But if leading a more than 170-year-old company has given me one thing, it’s optimism for the future – no matter what. After all, Western Massachusetts and MassMutual have weathered many periods of historic transition. And today I see one of the most important opportunities ever to tap into the incredible potential of this region, address important societal challenges, and keep building a stronger future for everyone. We can do this by fully embracing the trend that’s all around us. Digitization was well underway before the pandemic rapidly accelerated adoption. Now, it’s not enough just to keep pace with change — it’s time to speed up our own efforts and charge ahead. That’s what we’ve been doing at MassMutual. Our strategy is to transform to grow in a digital world, and every day we’re reaching more Americans where they are, with the solutions they need. By investing in new technologies, we’re able to issue life insurance protection faster and more easily, bringing people the security and peace of mind they need in a fraction of the time. We’re also able to give our financial professionals a broader picture of their clients’ finances with a click or swipe, providing them insights to help people make smarter, sounder decisions about their future. Right now, digital transformation holds the same

“For Western Massachusetts to reach its full potential, all its residents must be able to reach theirs, as well. That begins by rectifying long-standing inequities – including access to the building blocks to success. In a world powered by technology, everyone must be able to get online.” Roger Crandall, chairman, president and CEO, MassMutual

into effect, these cases began pens this year, or next year, to be heard virtually through or for the decades ahead. But Zoom sessions, making it if we embrace digital transhard for people without formation today, we can be internet access or connected ready for whatever comes devices — or the means to next. afford streaming a full court That’s why we’re remaining session — to fully participate laser-focused on our goal in their hearings. of giving more Americans To help close this gap, the access to financial security – MassMutual Foundation and we’ll do it by continuing MassMutual’s headquarters on State Street in Springfield. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) supports the Consumer Debt to invest in digital transforInitiative at Western New mation within our company efforts such as a multi-year technology, everyone must England University’s Cenand our community. After MassMutual Foundation be able to get online. That’s ter for Social Justice, which all, Springfield has been our grant to the University of why MassMutual is working works to address the ecohome for more than a centuMassachusetts Amherst and to help achieve digital equity nomic and legal consequenc- ry-and-a-half. When we grow a MassMutual gift of $1 milby supporting efforts to bring es of being in financial debt, and evolve together, we can lion to Boston University’s reliable broadband internet to including through its new take on any challenge that lies Faculty of Computing & Data underserved communities. Access to Technology Lab. ahead and emerge stronger on Sciences. After all, the internet is now This initiative helps clients the other side. In addition to making sure often the gateway to other navigate a virtual justice students have access to the aspects of society — like work, system and provides access Roger Crandall is chairman, education they need to suceducation and even justice. to devices, resources, court president and CEO of MassRoger Crandall ceed in a digital world, we’re Take the example of court technology and, ultimately, Mutual. To learn more about also supporting entrepreneurs cases involving consumer justice. MassMutual, go online to potential to catalyze growth who need capital to bring debt. When lockdowns went We can’t control what hap- massmutual.com. and solve critical challenges their ideas to fruition. We’ve across Western Massachulaunched the MM Catalyst setts. We’re seeing growth in Fund, which invests in both the number of available tech- Black-owned businesses in nology jobs (and yes, we have Massachusetts as well as openings at MassMutual), technology and sustainability and our location in the heart companies outside Boston, of New England’s Knowledge to help ensure companies Corridor gives us access to a throughout the state have the wealth of talent from some of resources they need to grow the nation’s most prestigious and thrive. For example, last colleges and universities. year, we invested in Marty’s At MassMutual, we’re doing Local, a Berkshire-based our part to help nurture and startup that helps connect retain that talent. Over the our region’s farmers to their past few years, we’ve graducustomers, and Clean Crop “Join the City of Springfield and be a part of the future as the city continally upgraded our facilities in Technologies, a Holyoke Springfield and expanded our company innovating in food ues to enhance its vision and build upon the momentum of good economic footprint in Massachusetts, safety — and that’s just the development initiatives and opportunities. Let the Springfield pride, opening a new, state-of-thebeginning. art building in the Boston But as we build our region’s power and resiliency translate into your business prosperity needs.” Seaport. future we know we can’t just By making our workplaces focus on creating opportunidestinations for collaboration ty. We must be just as comRespectfully, and innovation, as well as mitted to securing equal acMayor Domenic J. Sarno embracing a flexible culture cess to those opportunities. that includes hybrid work For Western Massachusetts Office of Planning and Economic Development options, we’re getting the to reach its full potential, all 70 Tapley Street advantages offered by both its residents must be able to Springfield, MA 01104 sides of the state, and the reach theirs as well. best of both worlds of in-perThat begins by rectifying (413) 787-6020 son and remote work. Mean- long-standing inequities Mon.-Fri. 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. while, we continue to bolster — including access to the local universities’ data building blocks to success. science programs, through In a world powered by

Building for the Future in

2022!

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | J3

Great things happen when we work together. Now, more than ever. For the last 170 years, we have proudly supported creativity and innovation in our business community, and look forward to helping Springfield continue its legacy as the ‘City of Firsts’ in this New Year.

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Insurance products issued by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual®), Springfield, MA 01111, and its affiliated US insurance companies. Securities offered through MM Investors Services, LLC, Member SIPC® and a MassMutual subsidiary. CRN202301-276394 © 2021 Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual®), Springfield, MA 01111-0001. All rights reserved. www.MassMutual.com.

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J4 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

“It seems like a new (governor’s) administration might have a more proactive approach to a project like this.” DANA ROSCOE, PIONEER VALLEY PLANNING COMMISSION

TRANSPORTATION

Federal funds, CSX deal bring east-west rail closer

State Sen. Eric P. Lesser, D-Longmeadow, speaks at the ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony for the Elias Brookings Apartments as other elected officials look on March 26. Lesser says the availability of more affordable housing across Western Massachusetts is critical for the region moving forward in providing opportunities amid the new hybrid economy. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Future of work presents new opportunities

I An aerial view of the CSX intermodal train yard in West Springfield. The rail freight company has agreed to work with Amtrak to identify improvements that would make higher-speed passenger service on its tracks more practical. (PATRICK JOHNSON / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

By Jim Kinney

jkinney@repub.com

unding for Amtrak and public transit in the federal infrastructure bill, along with government leverage over CSX because it wants approval to buy Pan Am Railway, make improved Boston-Springfield passenger rail service tantalizingly close.

U.S. Labor Secretary Marty Walsh speaks at Springfield Union Station in December during a news conference touting the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. Next to him is U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-Springfield. Also pictured from left are Mayors Joshua Garcia of Holyoke, Nicole LaChapelle of Easthampton, Domenic Sarno of Springfield, John Vieau of Chicopee, William Sapelli of Agawam, William Reichelt of West Springfield and Thomas Bernard of North Adams. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

erate with plans to restore passenger rail to the northern east-west route from Boston through Greenfield to North Adams, tracks it hopes to buy from Pan Am. And, in a deal worked out with state Sen. Adam G. Hinds, D-Pittsfield, CSX agreed to the operation of the

Berkshire Flyer from Pittsfield to Albany from Memorial Day to Columbus Day this year. All parties will evaluate the service, and the number of passengers it draws, with the consideration of making the train permanent. CSX asked for a commitment on a 1,000-foot station track in

Pittsfield to minimize interference with freight traffic. “It doesn’t say that they will allow passenger rail, it says they are willing to negotiate with Amtrak on providing additional passenger rail service,” Roscoe said of the agreements.

SEE RAIL, PAGE J6

Eric P. Lesser

"This transformation has the potential to bring new opportunities to our families in Western Massachusetts, so long as we continue to pursue policies that promote connectivity and equity. One of the most important policies will be universal, highspeed broadband access for every family. We have a long way to go to make this a reality.” State Sen. Eric P. Lesser

Liberty Mutual and the University of Massachusetts, reported 79% of employers are planning to use hybrid work models post-pandemic. Last fall, PwC set a permanent policy allowing its 40,000 employees to work remotely, from anywhere. These changes make it posSEE LESSER, PAGE J8

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But a final deal between CSX, which owns the rails; Amtrak, which will run the trains; and the state Department of Transportation isn’t expected until the federal Surface Transportation Board rules on the Pan Am deal on or just before April 15. Meanwhile, local train boosters are working hard to drum up ridership on the Valley Flyer between Springfield, Holyoke, Northampton and Greenfield because that train’s tryout period was marred by widespread COVID shutdowns. “We are definitely on the right track,” said Dana Roscoe, principal planner for transportation for the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. “Numbers are where they need to be at this point in the game.” Funding from the $1 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill will be available starting in mid-2022. The law, championed by U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield, in his role as chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, includes $66 billion for Amtrak nationwide and $2.5 billion for public transit in Massachusetts. Neal is a longtime supporter of passenger rail expansion through Springfield Union Station, and has said eastwest rail will be a priority for him as the money is spent. In hearings last month, CSX told the federal Surface Transportation Board that it had agreed to six of seven Amtrak stipulations. CSX agreed with Amtrak’s requests to help identify improvements that would make higher-speed passenger service more practical on CSX tracks from Albany, New York, through Springfield to Worcester. MassDOT owns the rails east of Worcester. CSX also agreed to coop-

N THE MIDST OF SO much sickness, challenge and disruption, it can be difficult to imagine the world once COVID-19 is fully under control. But as we look beyond the pain of this pandemic, the widespread adoption of remote and hybrid work has the potential to bring better jobs and opportunity to the families of Western Massachusetts. Our region has always been a wonderful place. I grew up here and, after living in Boston and Washington, couldn’t imagine anywhere I’d rather raise my three young children. We have incredible natural surroundings, a diverse population, a competitive cost of living, cultural and educational institutions that make many larger places envious. But we also know, despite all of these positive attributes, our communities have fallen behind, especially when it comes to employment prospects. Over the last several decades, many families left for jobs in the red-hot economy in Boston, or elsewhere. The recent census numbers clearly show that our commonwealth’s population is shifting east, while Western Massachusetts declines. But in our new, Zoom-empowered world, it’s possible for someone to enjoy the benefits of life in Western Massachusetts while staying connected to jobs and opportunities around the world. COVID-19 has permanently changed many workplaces. The Massachusetts Business Roundtable, whose membership includes anchor employers like Fidelity Investments,

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | J5

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

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J6 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Economy needs to reflect state’s diversity, creativity

Employees and guests gather for the unveiling of the pilot passenger rail car for the Los Angeles Metro at the CRRC factory in Springfield in June. Los Angeles Metro has ordered 64 subway cars at a cost of $230 million. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

MANUFACTURING

CRRC looks to move past COVID-19, quality woes Chinese rail car maker faces trade challenges

By Jim Kinney

jkinney@repub.com

he MBTA now has 60 Orange Line subway cars delivered from the CRRC factory in Springfield.

A six-car Red Line train built in Springfield was introduced into passenger service at the end of December 2021, said T spokesman Joe

Pesaturo. Two new Red Line cars were expected in January 2022. That’s progress, but far from where the Chinese-owned CRRC and the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority expected to be by this time. In 2014, CRRC received a $566 million contract from the MBTA to build 152 Orange Line cars and 252 Red Line cars in Springfield. In 2016, the state upped the order with another 120 Red Line cars, with production on those set to begin in June at a cost of $277 million. The T had said that it expected the Red Line cars to be completed and delivered by 2024. The Orange Line project was expected to be done in 2022. “We are definitely working on the schedule,”

SEE CRRC, PAGE J20

“We are confident that we are going to be able to return to service and optimize the performance.” BILLY JIM, CRRC PROJECT MANAGER

HAT IS THE future of the Massachusetts economy at a time of both extraordinary hope and unprecedented uncertainty? Chastened by another frightening season of COVID-19, an ongoing racial awakening and widespread cynicism about our institutions and leaders, how will Massachusetts businesses fulfill their obligation to be a force for positive change and bring value to society? The dawn of 2022 brings no shortage of challenges. We face an ever-mutating public health crisis, a generational shortage of qualified workers, supply chain disruptions, the highest inflation since the early 1990s and shifting expectations about the nature of work itself. All this while the pandemic has increased America’s political tribalism and fractured social structures that once held us together.

John Regan Despite these challenges, however, many Massachusetts companies and their employees are finding ways to thrive. Biotech leaders Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson, all cornerstones of the Massachusetts economy, created the most breathtaking scientific achievement of our generation in 2020 by bringing COVID vaccines to the market in record time. Initial public offerings among Massachusetts companies rose 30% during 2021,

SEE REGAN, PAGE J10

Pia Kumar, co-owner of Universal Plastics in Holyoke, stands in the company facility. Universal is among the companies across Western Massachusetts that in the midst of the pandemic used their expertise and research capabilities to make masks, gowns and other personal protective equipment for hospital workers. (DAVE ROBACK / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

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A CTrail train arrives at Springfield Union Station in January. Connecticut’s passenger rail service reported a partial recovery on its Hartford Line in 2021 and optimism for 2022. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Rail CONTINUES FROM PAGE J4

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In October 2020, MassDOT said passenger rail service could attract 278,000 to 469,000 riders per year. But the cost for necessary track upgrades would range from $2.4 billion to $4.6 billion. At that ridership and cost, the project doesn’t meet guidelines for federal funding. But that study was widely criticized for overestimating costs and underestimating ridership. Advocates say ridership would be driven by trackside residential development, changes in work-fromhome and commuting patterns and the high cost of housing in eastern Massachusetts. In 2021, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission and its Hartford counterpart came out with a a study with a more optimistic outlook. Improving rail service from New York City to Boston through Hartford, Springfield and Worcester could cost $6.4 billion to $9.4 billion over a 10-year-buildout. But that expenditure would yield $47 billion to $84 billion in new gross regional product over 30 years.

Baker himself announced the Valley Flyer demonstration project, which began running in the fall of 2019 in a two-year trial. The train was given goals. The state said it must reach 24,000 passengers a year — basically double the number of people who traveled the line before more trains were added — or the state will pull its $1 million-a-year funding. But then COVID happened Dana Roscoe is the principal and the state and Amtrak planner and transportalowered the goal in line with tion manager for the Pioneer across-the board declines in Valley Planning Commission. (PHOTO PROVIDED) Amtrak ridership, Roscoe said. The new deadline is in Then MassDOT came out the fall of this year. with another report outlining “We are very optimistic next steps for east-west rail that we can meet the benchand said publicly it’s negotimarks,” he said. ating with Amtrak on plans to CTrail’s Hartford Line add limited east-west service — commuter rail from as a short-term improvement. Springfield to New Haven, Neal has said he has Gov. Connecticut — reported a Charlie Baker’s increasing partial recovery in 2021 and support for east-west rail. But optimism for 2022. The line Roscoe said he’s seen a lot of gained nearly 80,000 riders foot-dragging over the years. from 2020 to 2021, but riderAt any rate, Roscoe said, Baker ship is still about half what it is not running again and the was in the pre-pandemic year state will have a new governor of 2019. in less than a year. Connecticut authorities are “It seems like a new admin- looking to reopening offices istration might have a more and more students on colleges proactive approach to a project campuses as sources of more like this,” Roscoe said. riders.

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | J7

Federal support key to WMass making it

Richard E. Neal Indian motorcycles were first manufactured here and the Merriam-Webster Dictionary — the first American-English dictionary — is still headquartered on Federal Street. Innovation and revitalization have long been the cornerstone of the history of this city and a big part of what it is today. As we embark on a somber milestone — two years since the first coronavirus case was detected in the United States — we once again look to our innovation and revitalization to continue to get us through this pandemic. We have seen resiliency and adaptability in every industry as we work to build back better. This past year the Ways and Means Committee led congressional efforts to keep Americans healthy and strengthen our economy. The committee delivered historic investments in workers and families, bolstered economic recovery, and expanded access to quality, affordable health care. We were also able to deliver strong supports for working families, businesses, schools, and cities and towns across our country. Through President Joe Biden’s American Rescue Package, Massachusetts received over $8 billion. The 1st Congressional District of Massachusetts alone received more than $240 million in direct relief to cities and towns; $354 million to K-12 schools; $90 million to colleges and universities; nearly $15 million to community health cen-

pringfield has colloquially been known as the “City of Firsts.” Great inventions and manufacturing facilities have their roots here. Basketball was invented on the campus of Springfield College. The city is home to our nation’s first armory and where the first American-made automobile was crafted. ters; and $191 million in child tax credits that lifted 8,400 children out of poverty. In addition, 255 businesses were supported through the Restaurant Revitalization Fund in the 1st District, and across the state more than $385 million went to shuttered venues and nonprofits. The CARES Act from March 2020 saved the American economy, the American Rescue Plan from March 2021 provided continued support at the local level, and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law from November 2021 will provide us with the resources we need to come out better on the other side. Here in Massachusetts, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will bring more than $9 billion in funding that will put

residents back to work while making a once-in-a-generation investment in our infrastructure. The commonwealth will receive: $4.2 billion for federal-aid highway apportioned programs; $1.1 billion for bridge replacement and repairs; $2.5 billion for public transportation; $63 million for electric vehicle charging network expansion; and a minimum of $100 million for broadband coverage enhancements. This bill also designates over $66 billion to Amtrak, the largest investment since the creation of the service. I am committed to ensuring that western and central Massachusetts sees devoted funds specifically for improved east-west rail from Boston to Pittsfield. After supporting Boston’s Big Dig, our region is long overdue

U.S. Rep. RIchard E. Neal, D-Springfield, announces two Health Resources and Services Administration federal grants to Bay Path University’s Philip H. Ryan Health Science Center on July 13. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

John LaFrancis, mechanical engineering technology professor at Springfield Technical Community College, right, shows parts manufactured at the college’s shop to U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield, during a tour on Oct. 6. Neal’s visit coincided with announcement of a $7 million grant to the college for STEM education. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

for a transportation investment of this kind. Under President Biden’s leadership, and thanks in large part to the vaccine, our country is steadily climbing out of the devastation of the pandemic. We can see from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Jobs Report that we are having stable growth month to month and it is clear that our economy is healing. It is encouraging to see unemployment at pre-pandemic levels and labor participation rates starting to rise. Our full economic recovery hinges on our health, and now is the time to double down. The Senate must pass the Build Back Better Act so we can continue pushing forward. We on the House Ways and Means Committee fought hard to keep key provisions like paid family and medical leave in the legislation because we cannot build back better until we recognize

“It is encouraging to see unemployment at pre-pandemic levels and labor participation rates starting to rise. Our full economic recovery hinges on our health, and now is the time to double down.” Rep. Richard E. Neal

Richard E. Neal, D-Springfield, is the congressman from the 1st Congressional District the needs of workers outside of of Massachusetts and chairs the workplace. Each individual the House Ways and Means measure in this bill has the Committee. You can learn more potential to change lives, and, about the congressman and his when taken together, these work online at neal.house.gov. investments will transform our His district office in Springfield country for the better. is located at 300 State St., Suite As we look ahead to 2022, 200, 413-785-0325.

To All Our Employees, Your Perseverance & Resilience Shine. You make a difference!

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I remain focused on policies centered around equity and expanding opportunity: combatting climate change, reducing child poverty, ensuring health care is within reach for everyone in the nation and creating an economy that works for all workers. Through it all, the greater Springfield community and its residents have remained committed to “making it in Western Massachusetts,” and, with support from the federal government, we will all be able to do just that.

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Lesser CONTINUES FROM PAGE J4

sible for someone to live in Springfield and be connected to job prospects not only in Boston or San Francisco, but anywhere in the world. This transformation has the potential to bring new opportunities to our families in Western Massachusetts, so long as we continue to pursue policies that promote connectivity and equity. One of the most important policies will be universal, high-speed broadband access for every family. We have a long way to go to make this a reality. The Alliance for Digital Equity in Western Massachusetts found that 39% of households in Springfield do not have a desktop or laptop computer. One of the most commonly requested items from our local public libraries are Wi-Fi hot spots, because many families cannot afford the rising costs of broadband service. Just as previous generations made indoor plumbing and electricity universal, it’s time for high-speed internet to be universally accessible as well. Thanks to recent federal and state economic development legislation, we now have record resources to invest in broadband service — the key for this coming year will be ensuring those resources are spent wisely and targeted to the communities that need them most. Despite the growing role of digital and remote work, there will always be the need to collaborate and work in-person. But commuting patterns will change dramatically. Someone working from their home or a coworking space in Springfield, for example, may still need to be in Boston or New York City a few times a month for higher-level meetings. Fast, frequent and reliable passenger rail service make that trip easy and productive — people can check emails or write memos along the way. Recent testimony to the Future of Work Commission I co-chair made clear that longer distance, lower frequency trips tied to specific purposes will become more common as shorter-distance, daily commutes to traditional offices becomes less common. These new opportunities are also creating new challenges, chief among them the rising cost of living. Remote workers in hightech, high-paying fields are bidding up the prices of homes, threatening to displace our local families. From November 2020 to November 2021 the median home price in Hampden County rose 10.5%, and rents have also increased far beyond the pace of wage or salary increases. This year, we need to fully implement the new housing choice legislation signed into law in 2021, allowing thousands of new homes to be built, raising supply and lowering costs for families. We also need to ensure both federal and state rental assistance programs are fully implemented, and that aid flows quickly and without red tape. As we move toward a new world in 2022, let’s do our part to ensure Western Massachusetts makes the most of the historic shifts happening all around us, and let’s make sure we’re connecting our region to this “hybrid” economy.

(DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

MANUFACTURING

Customer focus drives DFF expansion Agawam firm marks 2-year growth streak

By LORI STABILE

Special to The Republican

FF Corp. is projecting a 4% revenue increase for 2022, continuing its two-year growth streak, which featured a $20 million investment in equipment, according to president William J. Marganti.

Mark Kaplan, a lead assembly tech at the DFF Corp., does a parts cleaning in the factory in Agawam. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

While some companies have struggled during the pandemic, that has not been the case at DFF, which specializes in mediumto high-production of precision-machined components and electromechanical assembly products. Located on 23 acres, the company, which began with a 2,000-square-foot building, now has approximately 300,000 square feet over three buildings. Another 15,000-squarefoot expansion is planned for this year. “It’s been a combination of things,” Marganti said in a recent interview about the reasons for the company’s success. “We got a couple of new customers which obviously helped, and we invested in some automation. We have a customer-driven focus … if you can automate and use automated manufacturing

DFF Corp. continues an extended period of growth: integrating new technologies, adding to its customer portfolio and expanding its manufacturing facility and workforce. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

equipment, you are much more productive and it makes you more competitive.” “We have robots making robots,” Marganti explained. The company’s strong engineering team and reputation have helped set it apart from the competition, he added. A lot of DFF’s business comes from the material handling equipment industry. They often are not making an “end product,” Marganti said, but the product that goes into that end product. SEE DFF, PAGE J14

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State Sen. Eric P. Lesser, D-Longmeadow, represents the 1st Hampden & Hampshire District. He is Senate chair of the Joint Committee on Economic Development & Emerging Technologies, chair of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Senate vice chair of the Joint Committee on Transportation. He is also co-chair of the 17-member Future of Work Commission.

Above, Christian Cosme, an assembly tech at the DFF Corp., works on a thermal management system. At left, Evan Weagle, a CMM programer, does a quality check with a laser. The company specializes in medium- to high-production of precision-machined components and electromechanical assembly products.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | J9

Making a ‘she-covery’ in WMass

“We expect to educate policymakers, area philanthropy and our community, including assistance providers, on where we see the biggest opportunities to remove barriers and calibrate assistance so women and their families are more economically secure.” Chris Kelley, president, MGM Resorts’ Northeast Group

O At left, New England Patriots mascot Pat Patriot, dances with children at MGM Springfield’s annual tree lighting ceremony for the opening of its Holiday Winter Wonderland on Armory Square on Nov. 26. Above, the MGM hotel at the corner of Main and Howard streets in downtown Springfield. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO; DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

MGM looks to ‘new era’ of renewal necticut, or crossing the state border to Rhode Island, New Hampshire or New York to do so. Others simply continue to use offshore sportsbooks and illegal bookies that are not licensed or regulated and do not generate tax revenue for the state. Legalizing and properly regulating the sports betting Chris Kelley market will allow Massachusetts to keep the jobs and HIS PAST YEAR WAS revenue here in the state a year of resilience where it belongs, generating and recovery for significant direct and indirect MGM Springfield. It annual tax revenues for the Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, left, introduces chef Paul was a year that saw patrons commonwealth. It will also Wahlberg at the grand opening of Wahlburgers at MGM Springenthusiastically return to ensure strong responsible field on May 25. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) the property, while our team gaming protocols, protect continued to manage through consumers, and create and a stubborn and persistent Lounge complete with a March Madness and the types support many well-paying pandemic. As we enter 2022, 45-foot, state-of-the-art HD of events that bring major ex- Massachusetts jobs at MGM we look forward to building viewing wall and more than citement and energy to MGM Springfield and other locaon this positive momentum 70 individual lounge seats. Springfield and throughout tions. As one of the last states through a continued expanWe also completed a beautiful the city. in the region to not have sion of amenities, the return VIP viewing area in our TAP Since the U.S. Supreme legalized sports wagering, we of world-class entertainment, Sports Bar. Court overturned the federal urge the commonwealth to and an ongoing commitment Should state lawmakers pass prohibition in 2018, 32 states, SEE KELLEY, PAGE J12 to community engagement. the required legislation, MGM plus Washington, D.C., have Without question, the Springfield stands ready to of- passed legislation that allows amenity we continue to fer both in-person and mobile their residents to legally wareceive the most questions sports betting through our ger on sports. Massachusetts about is sports betting. Last partner BetMGM. We look residents are driving minutes year, we officially opened forward to welcoming sports away from MGM Springfield our MGM Springfield Sports fans for football weekends, to place their bets in Con-

UR REGION, LIKE much of the country, is facing a labor shortage, and the jobs that remain unfilled or are filled only briefly often traditionally employ women. The work traditions and practices we have relied on in the past do not fulfill the conditions that help women thrive and prosper at work. To understand why so many jobs remain vacant, we must examine the factors that affect a woman’s professional and economic security. Our report on the Status of Women and Girls in Western Massachusetts in 2019 showed that women in Hampden County were at a greater risk for economic insecurity. The arrival of COVID-19, which disproportionately affected women and particularly women of color, made the situation much worse. Nationally, the phenomenon has been coined a “shecession.” The Women’s Fund of

Donna Haghighat Western Massachusetts has convened many local direct-service organizations to create the Greater Springfield Women’s Economic Security Hub to study these factors and act on those findings to make conditions right for women to gain employment and prosper. Our approach for a “she-covery” began with bringing together community partners to understand the complexity of the problem and map out which agencies are poised to help.

SEE HAGHIGHAT, PAGE J17

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Sullivan

University of Massachusetts “Soon, clean energy Amherst, Springfield College, Holyoke Community CONTINUES FROM PAGE J2 will replace textiles College, Comcast and Bay as the state’s 10th technology to give Western Path University have formed largest industry at Massachusetts the competthe Western Massachusetts itive advantage it deserves Anchor Collaborative. An a projected growth to thrive in this current “anchor” strategy is one rate of 20% per economic landscape. This where institutions commit year, three times would be the most significant to serving as place-based and impactful infrastructure economic engines by using that of any other investment we could make as their institutional purchasindustry.” a region. ing, hiring, and investing in We also need to catalyze intentional, locally focused Richard K. Sullivan Jr., president and CEO, Economic new business. Future busiways. Development Council of nesses, in growing sectors The goal is to mutually benWestern Massachusetts such as, clean energy and efit the long-term well-being cyber+, are business ventures of both businesses and the that have great potential to communities they operate take off in the region as they cyber education and training, in. This five-plus-year plan is are not currently established and Western Massachusetts deliberate effort to develop in other parts of the country needs to position itself to take an equitable and accessible or state. In Massachusetts, advantage of this opportusystem for diverse suppliwe are consistently ranked nity. Fortunately, our region ers and small businesses to within the top 10 states for re- is home to some of the best thrive. search, innovation and talent colleges and universities in None of the aforemengeneration when it comes to the country, all with talenttioned work will be simple or renewable energy technology. ed faculties and extensive easy. It will involve systemClean energy jobs comprise research for the development atic changes, unlearning 3% of the state’s workforce – of our future. Leveraging our former processes so we can 114,000 jobs — a number that higher education institutions relearn and restrategize how has increased by 89% since and their strengths is a strabusinesses hire, procure, and 2010. tegic tactic to pipeline talent grow. There will be a true Western Massachusetts into local companies within focus on the barriers that preis well positioned to take a the cyber+ ecosystem. vent individuals from enterleadership role within the In addition to exploring ing or advancing in the workclean energy economy due to new businesses in untapped force, as well as businesses ample resources, both human sectors, the Western Massafrom starting or scaling in our and fiscal capital. In 2020, chusetts Economic Develcommunities. It then requires Western Massachusetts saw opment Council (EDC), has intentional work to overcome the second highest percentdeepened its commitment these barriers. age of renewable energy jobs to growing the economy of The EDC is committed to and business relative to total the region for every resident. this work because while it jobs and businesses in the Over the last several months, does help improve the quality region, at 3.2% to 3.3%, rethrough the leadership of the of life for the communities spectively. Soon, clean energy EDC, some of the region’s we serve, it also is a good will replace textiles as the largest businesses have met to business strategy, a solid and state’s 10th largest industry discuss how they can leverequitable growth strategy, at a projected growth rate of age their own institutional that only further supports the 20% per year, three times that and operational resources overall growth of our region of any other industry. to address problems caused in the present and our future. The need for cyber jobs, by historic segregation and education, training, cyber disinvestment in low-income Richard K. Sullivan Jr. is the security certifications, and communities and to grow the president and CEO of the Ecomunicipal upgrades is clearly regional economy. nomic Development Council only going to grow. The govAs a result, Baystate of Western Massachusetts. To ernor and Legislature have Health, Big Y, the city of learn more about the council recently announced a stateSpringfield, the city of and its work, go online to wide initiative to invest in Holyoke, United Personnel, westernmassedc.com.

MassMutual Life Insurance Co Baystate Health Springfield Baystate Franklin Baystate Mary Lane Baystate Noble Baystate Wing Eversource The Republican UMass Amherst MGM Springfield Big Y TD Bank Davis Foundation Westfield Bank PeoplesBank Yankee Candle Mercy Medical Center The Vann Group

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL www.westernmassedc.com

Verizon Country Bank Eastman Chemical, Inc. Berkshire Bank Health New England Comcast Cable WWLP-22 News AECOM/Tishman Const. Berkshire Gas Co Western Mass News Fitzgerald Law Massachusetts Mun. Wholesale National Grid Six Flags New England Monarch Enterprises bankESB Bulkley Richardson and Gelinas Peoples United Bank Florence Savings Bank MassLive CRRC MA

All States Construction, Inc. Polish National Credit Union FirstLight Power Balise Motor Sales Bradley Int’l Airport Cartamundi Holyoke Gas & Electric Community Foundation Mount Holyoke College Freedom Credit Union Smith College The Markens Group, Inc. Springfield College N. E. Farm Workers Council STCC OMG Inc. Elsm College Peerless Precision, Inc. UMass Amherst Pride Stations & Stores United Personnel Service Sulco Warehousing Interscape Commercial Environments U.S. Tsubaki Western New England Univ Monson Savings Westfield Gas & Electric CSX Westfield State Univ Peter Pan Bus Lines BayPath University Spherion Staffing Community Bank Maybury Material Handling Steve Roberts Eastern States Exposition A.L. Griggs Industries Greenfield Community College BusinessWest Holyoke Community College For information call LLumin Tamarack Advisors Rick Sullivan President & CEO Greenfield/Northampton Co-Op Bank (413) 755-1300

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J10 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

“We are striving for the balance between technology and artifacts, and give more reasons to be drawn to the hall of fame.” JOHN L. DOLEVA, NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

Above, one of the trophies on display at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. At left, John L. Doleva, president of the hall of fame, uses one of the interactive exhibits. (HOANG ‘LEON’

An exhibit at Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame honors athletes and others who have fought for racial equality and justice. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

TOURISM

Hoop shrine takes futuristic look at sport’s past By Ron Chimelis

rchimelis@repub.com

ohn L. Doleva remembers the not-so-good-old days of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. That makes it easier and better to appreciate the present. “We have very impressive technology, and we offer fun for all ages,” the museum’s president says as the hall of fame prepares for its first full calendar year as a fully renovated facility. “Our grand opening was in May of 2021. We had fantastic visitation over the summer and a very good fall as well. The hall of fame is redesigned as a great basketball museum — that remains first and foremost — but we are also programmed for presentations, conferences, formal dinners and other events.” Doleva has been the hall’s president for 20 years. He inherited a crippling financial headache that threatened the museum itself, at least in its present form, and perhaps its very location in Springfield, where James Naismith invented the sport in 1891. “In 2002, we were $11 million in

debt, with no money in the bank and no (rent-paying) tenants in our building,” Doleva said. That’s significant, he added, because with the hall of fame’s closing of its 2021 books, the museum emerges debtfree. A four-year renovation program was fueled by a $30 million capital campaign. Doleva said 90% of the project was funded by sources within the basketball community, which once eyed the hall of fame with detached attention — or often, disdain — but now throws its full support behind it, he said. The renovation has transformed

SEE HOOP, PAGE J18

A statue outside the hall of fame honors Dr. James Naismith, who invented basketball in Springfield in the 1890s. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

business leaders like Steve Grande, of Meridian Industrial Group, and Tricia Canavan, of Massis Staffing Solutions, joining other AIM members giving their time to help employers understand everything from the definition of an essential business to vaccine mandates and return-to-the-workplace issues. And it’s new businesses like White Lion Brewing Co. in Springfield, who have defied the pandemic and grown by setting down strong roots in the community. Diversity and inclusion, meanwhile, are imperatives in an economy marked by record numbers of people leaving their jobs and 10.4 million job openings remaining throughout the United States. COVID-19 forever changed the underpinnings of the state and national economies in a manner that will require us to ensure that everyone — all races, genders, ethnicities and backgrounds — participates in the post-COVID recovery and shares in the Raymond Barry, founder of White Lion Brewing Co., speaks prosperity it will bring. at the brewery in Springfield in June. Associated Industries of We cannot afford to ignore Massachusetts named White Lion one of the recipients of its Massachusetts Next Century Awards for 2021. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN broad swaths of human capital that have been historically / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) left out and left behind by commonwealth’s unpreceincreasingly disaggregated dented economic progress. from place and in which large Finally, technology and its segments of the population CONTINUES FROM PAGE J6 first cousin, innovation, are have been left behind by the the blood that flows through affirming again the common- fastest growing sectors or the wealth’s position as a center the veins of every segment of economy. the Massachusetts economy, The solution, I suggest, of technology and business from manufacturing and conmay be summarized in three creation. Many members of the words: tenacity, diversity, and struction to software, health care and higher education. technology. Associated Industries of Tenacity describes the deter- COVID underscored the Massachusetts (AIM) Board mination of the Massachusetts unique role played by techof Directors tell me their business community to create nology as many of us came to companies posted record rely on collaboration software results in both 2020 and 2021. a favorable business climate to do business while our kids amid a vexing political and Massachusetts employers have created 519,500 jobs attended school remotely, economic environment. It’s scores of manufacturers patients consulted with physisince the employment trough like Hazen Paper and Univer- cians via telehealth and smart in April 2020, boosting the wristbands expedited contact labor-force participation rate sal Plastics, both in Holyoke, from 60.4% to 66.3%. tracing. FLEXcon, of Spencer, and 99 Degrees Custom, of LawThese contradictory signals Tenacity, diversity and technology are inseparable shroud the road to recovery, rence, using their expertise elements of the same vigorchallenging our ability to make and research capabilities to the right decisions. The alche- make masks, gowns and other ous and sustainable economic personal protective equipment recovery for the citizens of my of economic success has Massachusetts. for hospital workers. become uncertain in a world in which work has become It’s Western Massachusetts AIM, as the statewide

Regan

business association in the commonwealth, is committed to working with employers, elected officials and the public to ensure that Massachusetts remains a beacon of economic opportunity for everyone. Last year, for example, AIM responded to the troubling exodus of women from the workforce by calling upon employers to make substantive adjustments to their policies to help women and caregivers balance work and person responsibilities. Scores of companies stepped forward and took steps such as giving pay increases and advancement steps to women and caregivers on schedule rather than penalizing those who have been on

leave or working limited hours. These steps were not only the right thing to do — they were the smart thing to do at a time when millions of skilled and valuable workers across the country left their jobs as part of the Great Resignation. In 2022, AIM will announce a bold initiative designed to ensure that the Massachusetts economy reflects all the diversity and creativity that makes the commonwealth such as great place to live. The initiative will be an effort to connect businesses owned or led by Black and brown entrepreneurs with opportunities at AIM-member companies looking to diversify their supply chain spending and

support minority business development. The ultimate success of the Massachusetts economic recovery depends upon the ability and willingness of business leaders and elected officials to give people the training, experience and incentive to participate in the promise of a new economy and a better life for all. That’s really what the American dream is all about. And we can, and will, make it happen here in Massachusetts. John Regan is president and CEO of Associated Industries of Massachusetts. To learn more about the organization, go online to aimnet.org.

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | J11

Springfield Museums keep ‘Making It’

Kay Simpson

HIS YEAR’S OUTlook theme of “Making It” captures the past 12 months at the Springfield Museums. According to the dictionary, if you make it, “you are successful at achieving something difficult, or surviving through a difficult period.” During 2021, we faced the ongoing challenges of the global pandemic and adapted to the changing dynamics of gathering in public spaces. Throughout the year, our five spectacular museums and outdoor Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden were open to the public and welcomed enthusiastic visitors of all ages as we maintained COVID-19 protocols. At the Springfield Museums, “Making It” is the result of a strong commitment to working with partners near and far: a fierce dedication to innovative thinking and bold ideas, and a willingness to quickly switch lanes and go in new directions. Since their founding more than 160 years ago, the Springfield Museums have

Above, members of the Gateway Cities Legislative Caucus meet inside the D’Amour Museum of Fine Arts at the Springfield Museums on Nov. 8 before heading over to the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum for a tour. At left, on Aug. 6, 10-month-old Claude Collins explores the Slow Zone inside of “Wild Kratts Creature Power!” exhibit. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO; HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

visitors as well as those who were more comfortable participating through digital means. The Oliphant family, visiting from Las Vegas, meets the Cat in As soon as we were able, we the Hat during the Summer Spectacular event in July at the operated within capacity reSpringfield Museums. They are Josie, 2 years old, Charlie, 7, strictions to present in-person and Naomi, 6. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) experiences for families. Our been at the forefront of idly evolving circumstances. March “Beep and Greet” Dr. change. Over the years, we Following our closure in Seuss Birthday Party program have opened new museums, 2020, we quickly created onenabled children and adults refreshed galleries and intro- line classes, lectures and tours to interact with their favorite duced exciting programs in so we could reach audiences Seussian characters while response to audience needs. who were unable to visit. In remaining socially distanced in During the pandemic, we 2021, we adapted again to offer their cars. accelerated our response time those programs in a hybrid forBy the summer capacity to warp speed to adjust to rap- mat so we could serve on-site restrictions were lifted and we

shifted once more to offer a full slate of activities outside on our spacious grounds. Throughout the fall we continued to creatively use our outdoor spaces as well as the expansive galleries in our museums to increase visitation. We kicked off Grinchmas with a record-breaking Family Fun event the day after Thanksgiving, followed by Weekends with Santa and Grinch, Evening Strolls on the Quadrangle, Pop-Up Vaccination Clinics and School Vaca-

tion Week activities from Dec. 27 through 30. Attendance for the month is close to visitation levels prior to the pandemic. While the museums’ “Making It” reflects the hard work and determination of our staff, trustees and volunteers, it also demonstrates the undeniable power of collaborating with organizations from the area and beyond to achieve our diversity, equity, and inclusion goal of becoming more inclusive and accessible museums. SEE SIMPSON, PAGE J16

“We will leverage our remarkable brand as a museum complex that features five stellar museums and an outdoor Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden to elevate our renown as a premier cultural attraction and inclusive educational resource. Using lessons learned from the pandemic, and drawing on the collective energies of our staff, trustees and supporters, we will more than “Make It” in 2022!” KAY SIMPSON, CEO, SPRINGFIELD MUSEUMS

The Return of Manufacturing

Job Creation • Education & Training • Building Partnerships

Teamwork Investing in the local economy

www.crrcma.com

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J12 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

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“The fact is railroading is always a cost-effective, reliable and environmentally responsible way to ship freight.” JEREMY C. LEVINE, PIONEER VALLEY RAILROAD, WESTFIELD

TRANSPORTATION

Bullish on freight rail Pioneer Valley Railroad chugs through COVID

By LORI STABILE

Special to The Republican

f you used wood for a home project recently, there’s a good chance it came through the Pioneer Valley Railroad.

And those Amazon boxes? They also passed through the railroad, but in their original form of paper pulp: 3,000-pound, 10-12 foot high reams. Railroads, according to Jeremy C. Levine, business development manager for Pioneer Valley Railroad, are “still as important now as they’ve ever been.” “One of our largest customers is a very large lumber supplier for lumber retailers in the area,” he said. “The point I’m trying to make is (railroads) play a real integral role in everything we do here, from the decks (that people may build) to the Amazon boxes that are coming to their door. A lot of those materials ship right here on the Pioneer Valley Railroad. “Railroads, without a doubt, are the lifeblood of an economy,” Levine added. Levine’s great-grandfather, Samuel M. Pinsly, bought his first railroad, the hurricane-damaged Hoosac Tunnel & Wilmington Railroad in

A railroad worker checks a car on an early morning run at the Pioneer Valley Railroad yard in Westfield. Pioneer Valley is a short-line rail freight company serving Western Massachusetts. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

A Pioneer Valley Railroad train passes a traffic control gate after picking up a load in Westfield. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

Massachusetts and Vermont, in 1938, then trained his sights on acquiring abandoned lines and bankrupt regional carriers to boost his business. “He started buying railroads all over the country,” Levine said of his great-grandfather. Pioneer Valley Railroad was purchased by the company in 1982. Today, Pinsly Railroad Co. continues to operate as a family business through its subsidiaries of Pioneer Valley Railroad and Railroad Distribution Services. The two subsidiaries handle products for

companies including Lowe’s, NGL Energy Partners, Casella Waste Systems and various paper companies, according to Levine. Rail traffic moves through the CSX interchange in Westfield and Pan Am Southern (PAS) interchange in Holyoke. The company divested its Arkansas and Florida operations in 2015 and 2020, respectively, to focus all its attention on Westfield, according to Levine. The fact the company “has been in many different states speaks to our diverse understanding of the

market,” he said. The short-line railroad has 31 miles of track with two branch lines, the Easthampton branch which extends from Westfield into Southampton, and the Holyoke branch which travels from Westfield into Holyoke. Traveling to Holyoke is a 14-mile trip, according to Levine. Levine said they operate two reload distribution centers on its rail line in Westfield, right off Interstate 90, which allows Pioneer Valley Railroad to act as a warehouse SEE RAILROAD, PAGE J19

Marjorie “Maggie” Silver, chairman of the Pinsly Railroad Co., is seen in 2001 in her office in Westfield. At the time, the company owned about 200 miles of track, including the Pioneer Valley Railroad, a 14-mile line between Holyoke and Westfield. Her grandson, Jeremy C. Levine, now business development manager for the firm, recently represented the family at the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association’s annual conference, at which she was posthumously inducted into the hall of fame for railroad visionaries. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

On April 22, MGM Springfield president Chris Kelley, left, speaks with Gov. Charlie Baker during an Earth Day event to honor MGM Springfield receiving LEED New Construction Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. The event was held outside at the Armory Plaza at MGM. (DON TREEGER

Railcar Assembly Facility, Springfield, MA

/ THE REPUBLICAN)

our employee dining room. This is in addition to one of the most competitive health insurance packages in the region, a great 401(k) retirement plan, and many additional benefits. Since day one, we have worked hard to ensure that our team members reflect MGM’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and we are proud of the thousands of good-paying jobs we have created, and will continue to create, for the residents of Western Massachusetts. Heading into 2022, we look forward to moving toward a new era of renewal as the city of Springfield redevelopment effort gains momentum. At MGM Springfield, we are committed to delivering new and unforgettable guest experiences, offering community support where it is needed most, and providing residents with the opportunity to join and grow with our MGM family. We are excited for the future, and we hope you will join us on the journey. Chris Kelley is president of MGM Resorts’ Northeast Group, including MGM Springfield. To learn more about MGM Springfield, go online to mgmspringfield. mgmresorts.com.

Engineers Scientists Planners Designers

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local organizations that offer education and workforce development opportunities CONTINUES FROM PAGE J9 to residents who need them act now so that we do not most. These groups includlose further ground to our ed the Boys & Girls Clubs of competitors across the Springfield, Link to Librarborder. ies, Western Massachusetts MGM Resorts is one of the Dress for Success, and the world’s premier entertainYWCA of Western Massament companies, and we are chusetts. We also helped excited to continue to bring spearhead the annual Toys back live events that create for Tots holiday drive and unforgettable experiences supported the Open Panand unmatched memories. try Community Services Our 2022 calendar already Emergency Food Pantry. includes headliners like Jay We understand the need for Leno, Boyz II Men, Chelsea these critical services and Handler, Tom Segura and are committed to standing John Mulaney. This is in by our community partners addition to our presenting to help bring relief to those sponsorship of the Springwho are struggling during field Thunderbirds, who are these unprecedented times. packing fans into the “ThunPerhaps no factor will be derdome” every week. We more critical to our success anticipate more big anin 2022 than our ability nouncements for the Massto attract and retain team Mutual Center, Symphony members. As we continue Hall and Roar Comedy Club to open new amenities and as the year progresses. We adjust to customer demand, can’t wait to share these our list of career openings incredible experiences (and continues to grow across all hopefully a playoff run from categories, including secuthe T-Birds) with our guests. rity, hospitality, food and At the core of everything beverage, and many others. we do at MGM Springfield To set ourselves apart in a is our commitment to the competitive labor market we community. Last year, have increased hourly wage through our employee and rates and are now offering corporate giving program, up to $2,500 in job retention we were proud to provide bonuses, tuition reimbursefunding and resources to ment, and free meals in

www.vhb.com

Kelley

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | J13

Mitchell Machine exemplifies commitment to innovation

S Eastman Chemical Co. in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield recently completed a $25 million expansion to make its latest version of the Saflex plastic interlayer. Below, a worker cuts a sample of Saflex material at Eastman Chemical’s plant in Springfield. The material is used in construction and in auto windshields. (EASTMAN CHEMICAL PHOTOS)

Shawn Pace, site manager of Eastman Chemical Co. in Indian Orchard, was named the 2021 City of Bright Nights Ball sponsor and honorary chair last fall. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

MANUFACTURING

Expansion adds layers to plastics manufacturer

By Jim Kinney

jkinney@repub.com

t Eastman Chemical Co. in Indian Orchard, a $25 million manufacturing line capable of making advanced plastic interlayers for windshields is installed and in its startup phase. Now the company needs automakers to start making cars to put those windshields in.

The Indian Orchard facility, with about 300 employees, is one of the region’s largest industrial employers and the largest chemical plant in New England. It has also made a name for itself through its charitable foundation, awarding $150,000 in local grants for COVID-19 relief, money that supplied lap desks for home learning and helped small businesses keep their doors open. Tennessee-based Eastman Chemical Co. bought the Indian Orchard plant in 2012 along with the rest of Solutia Corp., which had spun off from Monsanto, for $3.4 billion in cash. Saflex plastic interlayers for car windshields have been made at the plant since 1938. COVID, along with shipping backlogs and product delays,

have made it hard for Eastman, and will still be a factor into 2022. “Supply chain issues became a part of the narrative for 2021,” Plant Manager Shawn Pace said. Some of that was internal. It was hard to get supplies into the plant either because of a lack of truckers or snarls at the Suez Canal. The plant’s primary customers buy plastic interlayers to build windshields, which they sell to manufacturers who install them in new cars. But well-publicized shortages of computer chips have slowed demand for other car parts. New vehicle sales were just under 15 million in 2021, according to the National Automobile Dealers Association. That’s about 2 million less

“Supply chain issues became a part of the narrative for 2021.” SHAWN PACE, INDIAN ORCHARD PLANT MANAGER, EASTMAN CHEMICAL

The latest version of Saflex plastic interlayer for windshields rolls through a machine at Eastman Chemical Co. in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield. The company recently completed a $25 million improvement to the plant to make this latest product. (EASTMAN CHEMICAL PHOTO)

than 2019. Microchip shortages are expected to last through at least the second quarter of 2022. Auto Forecast Solutions expects that 11.3 million vehicles will not be produced globally as a result of the chip shortage. In Indian Orchard, the $25 million expansion allows Eastman to make plastic interlayers for advanced windscreens, Pace said. This technology provides better sound dampening for a quieter ride. It also allows for heads-up displays where drivers can read their speedometer and other crucial information off their windshield. The upgrade gives the plant the ability to operate in product areas that have the most growth, allowing it to compete for business with plants elsewhere in the world, Pace said. The advanced interlayers, popular with car buyers, had been made overseas. “Now we can make it here,” Pace said. “It certainly speaks to the vitality and utility of this plant.” Right now, the new production line is making Saflex for customers to test and verify that it meets their needs and quality standards. The plant has about 200 blue-collar union workers. Pace said Eastman has been spared the impact of the “great resignation,” with few workers quitting and moving on during the pandemic. But it’s an older workforce, he said, and many workers are at or nearing retirement age. For its white-collar workforce, Pace said Eastman depends on engineering programs at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, the University of Connecticut and University of Massachusetts Amherst. Pace said Eastman is still working on its philanthropic priorities for 2022. But it has already hosted its Black History Oratorical Contest, working with Springfield High School of Science and Technology to promote a deeper understanding of African American contributions to science, technology, the arts and mathematics.

INCE IT WAS launched by John Mitchell in 1920, Mitchell Machine has grown and diversified — shifting from producing parts and tools for the Springfield Armory and Indian Motocycle to designing and manufacturing complex machines for the semiconductor industry. The company’s evolution, adapting to a continually changing business environment over the past century, is particularly relevant in view of recent challenges posed by the pandemic. Examining Mitchell Machine’s efforts in response to earlier periods of change in its history highlights how a local manufacturer has changed its stripes to remain as viable today as it was a 100 years ago. Following World War II, there were literally hundreds of competing machine shops in Western Massachusetts and New England, while manufacturing demand decreased as the peacetime economy resumed. In an effort to increase the company’s market share, Mitchell Machine turned to technology, being among the first companies on the East Coast to implement large horizontal boring mills and investing in early computer numerical control (CNC) technology. The new capabilities led to new orders for large fabricated and machined parts and eventually to assembly of complete machines. With increasing demand for ever larger subcontract machined parts and machinery building, expansions to the company’s manufacturing facility for a dedicated machinery assembly area were added in the 1970s and

Mitchell Machine is a fourth-generation family business with over 50 years’ experience building special custom machinery. Seen here in the company headquarters on Hancock Street in Springfield are, from left, vice president Frank Mitchell, sales engineer Mark Mitchell and president John “Jack” Mitchell. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

talent available, Mitchell Engineering was established in 1992, addressing the need for in-house machine design capability. Integrated machine design, manufacturing, assembly and testing at their Springfield facility now generate over half of all revenue. With large scale outsourcing of domestic manufacDavid M. Cruise turing both before and after the millennium, a variety of again in the 1980s as larger, strategies were employed to more precise machine tools continue growth: were introduced. • Following existing A trend by large mancustomers offshore by ufacturing companies to supplying proven “Made in streamline operations in the USA” machinery to support 1980s led to their reducing their remote manufacturing engineering personnel and facilities in Mexico, Asia, and seeking turnkey engineering other lower cost locations; design and manufacture of • Targeting emerging equipment. After having American industries inserved this market as macluding semiconductor, chine builders for a generaerospace, green energy, and ation, Mitchell Machine’s medical devices; and limited engineering capa• Increasing activity on bilities were now a liability, government and Defense with machine manufacturing Department-related projects opportunities declining. requiring U.S. sourcing by Leveraging a surplus of the becoming registered with SEE CRUISE, PAGE J18 downsized engineering

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Quality of life issues remain planning focus

ROM ADDRESSING CLImate change and economic instability, to measuring inequities in our housing and food access systems, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission remains committed to ensuring EVERYONE in our region has access to what they need to live a high-quality life. We are proud to report another year of hard work and progress made on behalf of the 43 cities and towns of Hampden and Hampshire counties. Like many of you, the team at the planning commission watched in dismay as we saw heat waves overtake the Pacific Northwest and a cold snap bring Texas to a stand-

Kimberly H. Robinson still. While our region was primarily spared major irregular weather events, we know an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. That is why we love working with

our member communities and the commonwealth’s Municipal Vulnerability Preparedness program. As the title implies, the process includes assessments, stakeholder engagement and, ultimately, an action plan, to prepare municipal governments to protect life and property in times of crisis. Along with similar programs, we are proud to be working with our mayors, town managers, public safety officials, and planners to make each community greener, cleaner, and stronger in the face of so many challenges. Potential natural disasters were not the only thing concerning us this past year, as we saw in real

time the economic toll COVID-19 took on our local business districts. Working with communities of all sizes, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission was proud to facilitate the commonwealth’s new Rapid Recovery Program, bringing together business owners, local officials and subject matter experts in an effort to strengthen our downtowns, town centers, and commercial districts. With the state and federal recovery dollars available these days, we cannot wait to begin funding the great action items identified in this process and start rebuilding our valley’s centers of commerce.

Staying on the subject of economic development, the planning commission also continued to make real progress towards establishing an east-west passenger rail service from Boston to Western Massachusetts. Teaming up with our counterparts to the south, Greater Hartford’s Capitol Region Council of Governments and transportation powerhouse AECOM, we released a report this past year outlining an almost 10-to-1 return on investment in regional gross domestic product by reestablishing an inland route from Boston to New York via Springfield and Hartford. As my colleague Lyle Wray, execu-

SEE ROBINSON, PAGE J15

DFF CONTINUES FROM PAGE J8

ENTREPRENEURS

In search of innovators FORGE links entrepreneurs, manufacturers

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

ome entrepreneurs come into Kevin Moforte’s office with an idea sketched on a napkin.

“We springboard entrepreneurs onto their next stage. Western Massachusetts has a really strong manufacturing base, so our mission is connecting startups across the state with the manufacturing base here.” Kevin Moforte, FORGE Western Massachusetts director

priate budget, volume and all of that to work with them.” Across the state, Moforte, Teicher and their teams have forged relationships with 460 innovators and nearly as many manufacturers. This has resulted in $31 million in contracts and 4,000 jobs at startup companies and the manufacturers with which they work. Very often entrepreneurs have an idea but aren’t quite ready to have it produced. They may not have a prototype or a business plan. They could be short on cash or need design help. FORGE connects

SEE FORGE, PAGE J18

“We’re thankful we’re doing well, but it can change and we know that. Our business is mostly by word of mouth, but we’re starting to actively market ourselves, which is going to pay off.” William J. Marganti, president, DFF Corp.

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Others bring more sophisticated plans and prototypes. Either way, Moforte — FORGE’S director in Western Massachusetts — is boosting the regional economy by brokering relationships between entrepreneurs and businesses. FORGE is based in Sommerville, with its Western Massachusetts office in the Springfield Technical Community College Technology Park. It is a nonprofit affiliated with Greentown Labs. Since 2016, the regional office has introduced 150 startup businesses to more than 100 manufacturers. These introductions have resulted in $11 million worth of business and an untold number of jobs. “We springboard entrepreneurs onto their next stage. Western Massachusetts has a really strong manufacturing base, so our mission is connecting startups across the state with the manufacturing base here,” says Moforte. While there are hundreds of manufacturers across the region in a sector that is a powerful economic engine, it is nearly invisible, he says. “Manufacturing is the invisible economy, and it has to come out of that shroud. We have to do more to showcase the manufacturing capacity we have,” he says. “If I can do that and attract innovators and entrepreneurs to mass produce their products here, it’s a huge win for the region.” It’s not so easy for inno-

vators to find or convince manufacturers to work with them, according to Moforte. That’s when FORGE uses its connections with manufacturers to give entrepreneurs clout and credibility. “Manufacturers hear startup and they assume they’re talking to someone tinkering in their garage who doesn’t have any funding,” says Laura Teicher, executive director of FORGE. “They may not reply to cold contacts from entrepreneurs they don’t know. But manufacturers do know if they’re getting a referral through FORGE, that innovator is ready and has an appro-

Robotics work on the assembly line at DFF Corp. in Agawam, a company specializing in medium to high production of precision-machined components and electromechanical assembly products. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

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Kevin Moforte is the Western Massachusetts director of FORGE. FORGE, a nonprofit associated with Greentown Labs, helps innovators as they develop new products, through the process of rendering prototypes and early production runs all the way through commercial scale. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

This includes such things as parts for robots, assemblies for electric propulsion ground vehicles, a cooling system device that cools batteries used in electric buses for public transportation and parts used for guns in the defense industry. Making products for medical devices also has been an area of growth, he added. Other industries that DFF serves include aerospace, robotics, life sciences, semiconductors, and security imaging and detection. The company works with 14 customers on designs for their products and ways to make them easier to produce to maximize quality and reliability, according to Marganti. When the pandemic began in March 2020, DFF was already “ramping up,” he said. And, unlike companies that were able to shift to a remote or hybrid work model, that wasn’t possible for the manufacturer. “We can’t make the products at home,” Marganti said. In its 53rd year, DFF, which stands for Defect Free Flow, a name coined by now retired founder Ernest Denby, now has approximately 340 workers. Since 2020, it has added 185 employees. The company started a second shift with 24/7 coverage in March 2020, just as the pandemic began to take hold. From 2019 to 2021, DFF has added 42 computer numericical control (CNC) machines and four robotics cells. Marganti said DFF is finding employees through vocational schools, online hiring platforms and from industries that have struggled during the pandemic, such as aerospace. The firm was also among those in Western Massachusetts which hired some former Smith & Wesson employees as the gun company announced plans to move its headquarters from Springfield, and part of its manufacturing operations, to Tennessee, and laying off 550 employees. “We’re always looking to add skilled labor. We look at recruiting as perpetual. I had this discussion with other CEOs. People like to say you can’t find help. I disagree. If you have the right approach you can get help,” Marganti said, adding they are “aggressive” when they receive an application. Challenges ahead include the price hike in some raw materials, such as aluminum, and increased lead times. “We’re thankful we’re doing well, but it can change and we know that,” Marganti said. “Our business is mostly by word of mouth, but we’re starting to actively market ourselves, which is going to pay off.”

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Above, Gagliarducci Construction Inc. and other companies took part in a $4.1 million project, seen here in progress in 2019, to create a traffic circle at the intersection of Hancock, Maple, Alden, Walnut and Ashley streets in Springfield. The change brought improved safety to the infamous Six Corners crossing. At right, Gagliarducci Construction rolls out the heavy equipment in 2006 to make emergency repairs to a broken sewer line on Stony Hill Road in Wilbraham. (PATRICK JOHNSON / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO; THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

BUILDING & CONSTRUCTION

Rounding off corners for 100 years Gagliarducci Construction does ‘everything from the ground down’

By Jeanette DeForge

jdeforge@repub.com

or more than 100 years, Gagliarducci Construction Inc. has built schools, repaired roads and replaced water mains throughout Western Massachusetts. But the one project the owner is most proud of is fixing a nightmare intersection close to his childhood home.

In November, Springfield officials announced the department of public works and project designer Fuss & O’Neill of Springfield received a prestigious award from the American Council of Engineering Companies for creating the Six Corners roundabout. Gagliarducci Construction was the company that took the plans and turned it into a reality. “The thing is I grew up in that neighborhood, I went to school at Elias Brookings School,” said Jerome J. Gagliarducci Sr., the third generation of his family to run the company. “When I was a young kid when we went someplace as a family it was in the Six Corners neighborhood.” The company even received accolades from the governor for its work to create a solution for the intersection where six streets come together. Gagliarducci said he ran into Gov. Charlie Baker at the dedication ceremony for Beauregard and Schiavina Park, which the company also built, and the governor asked him, “How do you make Six Corners round?” “People were coming through all the time tooting their horns, waving” after the roundabout was complete, Gagliarducci said. “They were all excited because for many years it was just a nightmare to go through Six Corners.” The company began in 1900 after Anthony Gagliarducci immigrated from Italy and started a small landscaping business called Tony Gagliarducci & Sons at 227 Mill St., just down the street from the family home

Robinson CONTINUES FROM PAGE J14

tive director emeritus at the council of governments, continues to say, “There simply is no other proposal on the table that currently offers such a massive return on investment to our shared metro area.” Working with leaders at the federal, state, and regional levels, we continue to push the commonwealth to put the strongest possible proposal forward and take advantage of the windfall of federal transportation dollars now being rolled out across the country. Lastly, we know disaster,

Jerome J. Gagliarducci Sr., center, runs Gagliarducci Construction Inc. with his two sons, Jerome Jr., left, and Christopher, right. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Workers from Gagliarducci Construction Inc. backfill burial vaults at the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Agawam in 2000. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

at 246 Mill St. His son, Anthony Jr., joined the business in the 1930s after graduating from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a degree in landscape architecture. He expanded and diversified the business, buying equipment to do more paving, piping and roadwork. Anthony Gagliarducci Jr. died when he was 52 and Jerome, who is better known as Jerry, was just 16. Jerry Gagliarducci’s mother, LaSalle Gagliarducci, then stepped in and became one of the few women to run a construction company. She wanted it for her three sons, but only Jerry Gagliarducci ended up being interested in working there. His mother continued to run the business for decades. She asked for details about the business right up until a few weeks before her death on Jan.

whether natural or economic, doesn’t impact all Pioneer Valley residents the same. Our impediments to fair housing assessments of valley communities aim to identify and address barriers to good quality housing for residents of all backgrounds, race, income, and ability. Similarly, as part of the larger Pioneer Valley Data Collaborative, we have launched a series of COVID-19 recovery dashboards meant to highlight inequality and give decisionmakers throughout the public, private, and non-profit sectors the information they need to help address these historic and persistent wrongs. Staffed by our Regional Information

1, 2017, at the age of 103, he said. The company long ago moved to 295 Pasco Road, and now Gagliarducci’s two sons have joined him. Jerome Jr., better known as Jay, came home after earning an engineering degree at Clarkson University. Four or five years ago Christopher joined them after earning a degree in finance and computer science from Bentley University and working in the computer industry for several years. “I never thought of doing anything different,” Jay Gagliarducci said, adding that his father started bringing him to construction sites when he was 7. Over the years the company has continued to expand and now has 75 to 80 or “79 too many” employees, Jerry Gagliarducci jokes.

and Planning Center, the Pioneer Valley Data Collaborative has released dashboards on unemployment insurance claims and food insecurity so far, with plenty of other topics left to explore. Together, the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission is proud that our work remains firmly committed to ensuring we can all enjoy good quality of life here in Western Massachusetts today and for generations to come. Kimberly H. Robinson is executive director of the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission. To learn more about the commission, go online to pvpc. org.

“People were coming through all the time tooting their horns, waving. They were all excited because for many years it was just a nightmare to go through Six Corners.” JEROME J. GAGLIARDUCCI SR., GAGLIARDUCCI CONSTRUCTION INC.

Gagliarducci Construction is a heavy civil contractor specializing in building or rebuilding roads, sidewalks, culverts and underground piping, or as Gagliarducci puts it simply, “We do everything from the ground down.” It expanded years ago to add a crushing division, with mobile crushers and screeners that produce construction aggregates of varying sizes, with gravel, recycled asphalt, concrete and stone for other contractors. “We have a series of contrac-

tors we work for year in and year out,” he said. Some of the company’s better-known projects include work on the new Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy and Pope Francis Preparatory School, the combined Brightwood and Lincoln schools on Plainfield Street, several projects at Forest Park, and making major improvements to the Eastern States Exposition grounds. The company’s current work includes jobs at Deerfield Academy, the Springfield project to

build a consolidated DeBerry and Homer Street school and an Amherst project to build a new Newman Catholic Center at UMass, Gagliarducci said. The COVID-19 pandemic created a series of challenges, mainly around ensuring employees remained safe and healthy, but work was able to continue, he said. “Our biggest challenges are getting people and getting work,” Gagliarducci said. “It never stops. You are always looking for new business and good help.”

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Above, the company logo as seen in the showroom of Ponders Hollow in Westfield. At right, lumber is being stacked in the plant. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTOS)

LEGACY BUSINESS

Finely crafted wood products is family tradition Lashway Lumber marks almost 70 years in WMass

By CORI URBAN

Special to The Republican

he Westfield-headquartered custom wood flooring and architectural millwork business Ponders Hollow is rooted in family tradition in Western Massachusetts. Ponders Hollow is owned by the Lashway family — father Gerald Lashway and his sons, Lawrence and Gerry.

Gerry, Gerald and Lawrence Lashway, of Lashway Lumber and Ponders Hollow. (LASHWAY LUMBER PHOTO)

When the opportunity to branch out presented itself, Gerald Lashway had the vision to expand Lashway Lumber, founded in Williamsburg in 1954. “He saw a real need for high quality, locally milled finished millwork,” said Gerry Lashway, president of Ponders Hollow in Westfield. “His vision was for consumers to be able to work with locally harvested timber that would be sawn, kiln dried and then made into finish millwork and flooring for their homes. “We decided I would learn the craft of making custom millwork and wood flooring and get the business up and running in Westfield,” Gerry Lashway explained. Lashway Lumber is now managed by its fourth generation of family entrepreneurs, and he says “the smell of

Mark Wagner loads material in the moulding machine at Ponders Hollow in Westfield. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

sawdust” keeps the Lashways in this business. “From a young age I always knew I wanted to work with my father and brother,” he said. “To be able to wake up every day and love what you do and do it with people you love is a great thing.” Plus, like his father and brother, he appreciates the industry itself: “(It’s) great to be a part of, (and) it’s full

of hard-working people that share the passion.” In 2005 Lashway Lumber expanded its business through the sister company, Ponders Hollow, that offers all types of wood products, interior and exterior mouldings, hand-crafted plank flooring, stair treads, wall paneling and more. Ponders Hollow had its

SEE LUMBER, PAGE J18

Simpson CONTINUES FROM PAGE J11

sachusetts so that we expand and amplify our ever-growing tourism appeal. Without a doubt, COVID-19 funding from the public and private sectors has been instrumental in our “Making It” through the pandemic. Major grants from the National Endowment for the Humanities and Arts, the state Cultural Council and an array of private foundations and individual donors provided critically needed revenue to offset major losses in earned income. In October, U.S. Rep. Richard E. Neal announced that the museums received $1.2 million through the federally funded Shuttered Venues Operator Grant program. This community of support has lifted the museums during uncertain

times so we can fulfill our mission as the region’s epicenter of arts, culture and learning. Looking ahead, we will leverage our remarkable brand as a museum complex that features five stellar museums and an outdoor Dr. Seuss Sculpture Garden to elevate our renown as a premier cultural attraction and inclusive educational resource. Using lessons learned from the pandemic, and drawing on the collective energies of our staff, trustees and supporters, we will more than “Make It” in 2022! Kay Simpson is president and CEO of the Springfield Museums; to learn more about the museums, go online to springfieldmuseums.org.

Thank

You!

187,968,086 Mobile

Meals in forty years Capital Food Bank campaign local Farms farmers Food Bank

foodbankwma.org 413-247-9738 info@foodbankwma.org

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Thing 1 and Thing 2 and a friend greet visitors to the Dr. Seuss Beep and Greet event at the Springfield Museums on March 6. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

The Food Bank of Western Massachusetts has partnered with our community for forty years. Volunteers, government, household and corporate donors, local farmers, food pantries, meal sites, individuals with lived experiences, and YOU. Together, we have done so much and are ready for the years ahead.

170 Pantries & Meal Sites

Jenny Powers, family engagement coordinator for the Springfield Museums, gives a child an interactive science demonstration on temperature as part of Earth Week: Take Action! on April 22. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Brown Bag: Food For Elders

Working with the Springfield Cultural Partnership and the Parks and Recreation Department, we engaged BIPOC artists to create multimedia art installations in Pynchon Plaza following a multimillion-dollar renovation undertaken by the city of Springfield. After being closed for decades, the plaza is being transformed into an outdoor art gallery that also serves as a gateway to the museums from the downtown district. As a result of our partnership with the Smithsonian Institution, we displayed the outstanding exhibition “The Outwin: American Portraiture Today” that featured works by artists addressing themes of social protest, immigration, racism, gender bias and identity. The bilingual exhibition “The Body Adorned: Artistry and Legacy of the Ancient Americas” presents exquisite jewelry and feather textiles of indigenous peoples from our partner the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Marketing collaborations launched by the Greater Springfield Convention and Visitors Bureau also enable us to promote our museums alongside the other phenomenal attractions in Western Mas-

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MARIJUANA

$1.4 billion industry faces growing pains, competition By Jim Kinney

jkinney@repub.com

Nurys Camargo, a member of the state Cannabis Control Commission, speaks at The Block’s private event held at White Lion Brewery at Tower Square on Nov. 11 in Springfield. The Block is a newly organized trade association focused on social equity for Black and brown owners and operators of cannabis businesses in Massachusetts. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Business owners look for social equity

ROWING UP WE all have dreams at one point or another about what are life will look like. We imagine our careers, our spouses, where we will call home and, yes, even details about what we will look like as we grow out of our baby faces and into adulthood. I would venture to say that none of us could have imagined factoring a pandemic into our lives let alone our dreams. The reality is, however, that the pandemic continues to impact our daily lives, although recent case counts show signs that an end maybe near. It is no secret that it has impacted many industries both positively and negatively, one of which is cannabis. After graduating from College of the Holy Cross in 2015, I found myself dreaming of what my life would be like. Like many things, though, the dream I had would be altered when the voters of Massachusetts legalized recreational use of cannabis in 2016. Fast forward to 2022, with states like New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut all legalizing and preparing to implement their adult use markets, it is important that they look to Massachusetts for lessons learned prior to rolling out their programs. Massachusetts, my home state, has an interesting approach, with municipalities selecting companies at the local level and companies then being licensed with the state. It is a process that can range from 12 to 24 months to complete, depending on things like funding, construction, and many other factors that are all to often out of your control, including most recently challenges resulting from the pandemic. When I started 6 Brick’s

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with the support of my family in 2019, I could not imagine the many twists and turns that would unfold. However, resiliency is the word that comes to mind as I think about the highs and lows of trying to progress 6 Brick’s to a grand opening. Starting any business is difficult, but when you layer in the complexities of cannabis being federally illegal, meaning many banks will not allow you to open a bank account or lend you startup money that can range from $1 million to $3 million, this is not for the faint of heart. When you take a step back, you realize that cannabis was smoked long before dispensaries, much like eating food prior to the modern-day grocery stores. And, yet, the consequences of engaging in the illegal market meant hundreds of thousands of Black and brown people were serving prison or jail time for the same cannabis you can now legally purchase. And, yet, the industry remains largely owned and controlled by white men. This means businesses like 6 Brick’s being owned and operated by a Black family and led by a Black woman are few and far between. As I grappled with the realities of the industry, I was able to connect with other leaders across the industry, but the difference is that they looked like me — Black and brown

SEE SHUBRICK, PAGE J19

with the expert assistance of our community partners who will ultimately use the data in this community-engaged research initiative. The research we gather from this project will be written by and for the community, avoiding the “for us, without us” framework that is sometimes used in philanthropy. The participants who provide insights will be given information about resources to address their critical needs and be given a stipend for their time. All nonprofit partners will be receiving grants for their “she-covery” work. Through the UMass CRF, we are creating a certification for our nonprofit partners that will bolster their expertise in facilitating future community-engaged research projects, to develop a future revenue stream. We understand that a true “she-covery” will take a full understanding of the problems women face. These data will influence strategies for where limited regional resources should be disseminated for the greatest impact in the communities most affected. We expect to educate policymakers, area philanthropy, and our community, including assistance providers, on where we see the biggest opportunities to remove barriers and calibrate

assistance so women and their families are more economically secure. The regional solutions that will emerge from this project would not be possible without the support of other philanthropic catalysts in the region. We are grateful to our many individual donors and those who will join us in the future. The support of the Community Foundation of Western Massachusetts, the Irene E. and George A. Davis Foundation and MassMutual Foundation are also critical to the success of this project. By centering on those who have the greatest insights and listening with curiosity and intention, may we begin to solve this problem together. We have already learned so much ourselves about the complexity of the problem of women’s economic vulnerability. When a community comes together to understand and address problems, our whole region benefits. We can ensure that every woman receives a fair opportunity to work and thrive in Western Massachusetts. Donna Haghighat is president and CEO of the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts. To learn more about the women’s fund and its work, go online to mywomensfund. org.

Co-CEO Chris Gallant inspects marijuana plants grown at 253 Farmacy last March. The Montague business gets its products kosher certified. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

“It remains to be seen how that (social consumption) business model will play out. It will be one more point of access to a safe cannabis experience.” MEG SANDERS, CANNA PROVISIONS GROUP

statewide plebiscite. The first recreational marijuana retailers opened two years later in 2018. But at what point are there more stores than customers to support them? “We can look at other states and see that saturation happen,” said Matt Yee, chief operating officer for Enlite Cannabis Dispensary. Enlite opened its first store

in Northampton in November and is in the final stages of getting approved for another store in the Indian Orchard section of Springfield. The Northampton Enlite is the ninth dispensary in Northampton alone. Yee, part of the restaurant-owning Yee family, said competition means dispensaries have to operate like other businesses paying attention to service

and location. He sees the impact of competition in the interest his business gets from potential wholesale suppliers. The sales reps seek him out now to pitch products. He used to have to seek out products. Pushback against the cannabis industry is also growing. In Holyoke, a city that sees

SEE MARIJUANA, PAGE J19

As we look ahead to 2022, I remain focused on policies centered around equity and expanding opportunity: combatting climate change, reducing child poverty, ensuring health care is within reach for everyone in the nation, and creating an economy that works for all. We once again rely on our innovation and revitalization sectors to continue to get us through this pandemic. We have seen tremendous resiliency and adaptability in every industry and I know that we will be successful building back better. I am proud to serve as Chair of the House Ways and Means Committee to spearhead these efforts and more. It is an honor to be your representative in Congress.

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Our collective mission is to hear directly from affected women themselves, with a humble and open heart. As a women’s foundation that primarily supports other organizations that directly serve individual women, we know that we cannot have the full understanding of what women in Greater Springfield are facing without funding opportunities to hear their stories. Organizations like Arise for Social Justice, Dress for Success Western Massachusetts, Springfield WORKS, the Social Justice Center at Western New England School of Law, Springfield Partners, Parent Villages, New North Citizens Council, and more, are our necessary partners for hearing these individual voices. Our organization has partnered with research teams from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, including the Donahue Institute and the Center for Research on Families (CRF) to develop a framework that clarifies the many of the factors that make up each woman’s “economic engine.” This engine framework has formed the foundation of a survey, developed

Payton Shubrick

Massachusetts’ legalized recreational cannabis industry saw growth in 2021 and expects more in 2022, but competition from both within and in neighboring states and pushback in Holyoke point to growing pains. “I would describe it a lot more as maturing,” said Erik Williams, co-founder and chief operating officer of Canna Provisions Group, which has shops in Holyoke and Lee. “That means we welcome more and more new customers. It means we welcome new products. This isn’t cannabis from even 10 years ago, where it was flower in its various forms.” Today there is a range of cannabis products that Williams says fall under the general umbrella of wellness, from salve for sore muscles to the recreational products many might be more familiar with. Massachusetts has 387 licensed retailers, according to statistics kept by the state’s Cannabis Control Commission. There are another 28 licenses pending. The state has also licensed 296 cultivators and 225 manufacturers. Legal recreational cannabis is a $1.4-billion-a-year business in Massachusetts, with the state’s retailers having sold $2.5 billion worth of product in just more than three years of operation. The industry regularly brings in between $3 million and $5 million in a single day. To put that $1.4 billion number in context, the state Department of Agriculture says Massachusetts provides an annual market value of over $475 million in farm products. Revenue from the state’s marijuana excise tax now surpasses collections from alcohol — $74.2 million versus $51.3 million in fiscal 2022 as of December. The taxes on cannabis and alcohol are structured and applied differently. The state levies a 10.25% excise tax on consumer purchases, in addition to the local option tax of up to 3% and the state’s 6.25% sales tax. The excise tax on alcohol is based on volume and is paid by the producer. Still, it’s an astounding leap for an industry born just six years ago when voters approved a 2016

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Cruise CONTINUES FROM PAGE J13

both SAMS and ITAR certifications. As with most organizations, qualified, dedicated people are essential. The foundation of Mitchell Machine’s production process is the individual machine builder, who operates in an environment where innovation and craftsmanship are highly regarded. Working in close cooperation with machine designers and highly skilled machinists, they develop automated machinery that meets even the most exacting of our customer’s requirements. Replacing an aging but highly skilled workforce has been a challenge for many Western Massachusetts companies in recent years, Mitchell Machine included. While providing very competitive pay, benefits, and secure employment to its employees; further steps are necessary to retain the best machinists, builders, and engineers. Long-term efforts to attract and maintain a capable workforce have included membership in the Hampden County Workforce Board, sponsoring area high school field trips to experience technology careers, and college internships. Workforce training grants

At left, Colman Culver working at Mitchell Machine Inc. in Springfield. At right are Justin Hannigan and Dave Blais. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

from MassMEP have been used to enhance employee knowledge and skill levels. Mitchell Machine became one of a handful of area companies to take part in Valley Venture Mentors’ first accelerator program for established manufacturers. Mark Mitchell, a fourth-generation leader of the company, led Mitchell’s involvement in the intense, three-month accelerator program. He said it was helpful on many levels, but especially with marketing and raising the company’s

profile, thus generating new clients. Recent upgrades in digital technology have bolstered Mitchell Machine’s efforts in today’s COVID-19 environment. Investments in updating the company’s website and digital marketing presence, with support though MassMEP, were begun before the pandemic and are continually enhanced. Use of information sharing software and on line meeting tools such as Microsoft TEAMS have bolstered the ability to maintain customer communica-

tion without direct person to person contact. International supply chain issues related to the pandemic have actually increased demand for domestic, large machining work, and Mitchell Machine added a Toshiba horizontal boring mill with 60 Tool Changer to address those opportunities in late 2021. Mitchell Machine’s sustained commitment to technology innovation and responding to the evolving demands of its customer base has

allowed the company to grow its business, enhance job creation, and contribute to the continued economic expansion of the region — a true gem in the manufacturing landscape in Western Massachusetts. David M. Cruise is president and CEO of the MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board. To learn more about the workforce board, go online to MassHireHCWB.com. To learn more about Mitchell Machine, go online to Mitchellmachine.com.

Hoop CONTINUES FROM PAGE J10

Samples in the showroom of Ponders Hollow Custom Flooring and Millwork in Westfield. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

Lumber

in. “But we tend to keep doing what we do well and see what new opportunities could arise CONTINUES FROM PAGE J16 for us,” he added. grand opening of its newly He said he does hope to be renovated showroom at 16 able to focus more on the livePonders Hollow Road in West- edge slab business. field in May. “We continue to grow as a Lashway Lumber “is start to business and work with new finish for green lumber,” Lash- grades and species of wood, way said. “From harvesting take on projects we have never trees to custom sawing, (we) done before and advance our also offer bark mulch for land- company culture in positive scaping, seasoned firewood and exciting ways,” said Jamie and kiln drying.” Potvin, marketing coordinaGerald Lashway, who main- tor-inside sales. “After 16 years tains his position as lead sawin business, there is always yer at Lashway Lumber, taught something new to be learned, his sons to enjoy their work, to and the opportunities to exwork hard and to be loyal and pand and grow are endless.” respectful. Each segment of the business “Having such a passion for focuses on finely crafted wood the wood industry, Larry and products. Gerry Lashway looks I are always looking to the at wood flooring as a piece of future, not only thinking about furniture going into a home. the Lashway Lumber and Pon“It will last a lifetime, and ders Hollow,” Gerry Lashway it brings so much warmth to said. “We look at the industry your home” he said. “Adding as a whole.” custom millwork around your They have recently seen a doors and windows or accentpush for live-edge products, so ing a wall with a nickel gap they expanded into that market panel really just makes your with Mill River Slab Works. Mill home ‘your home.’ With all the River custom saws large logs, different options, you can make dries them in vacuum kilns and your house all about you with planes them smooth. The slabs the products and designs you are as wide as 6 feet and up to choose.” 16 feet long and are custom To learn more about the crafted for clients. Lashway Lumber family of Looking to the future, Gerry businesses, go online to Lashway said it’s difficult to lashwayusa.com, ponder know what to expect because shollow.com and millriver of the situation the country is slabworks.com.

FORGE

preneurs a year. In 2021 that number skyrocketed, onboarding 225 startups. One of the CONTINUES FROM PAGE J14 reasons may well have been them with resources they that having products made need to take on these challocally meant avoiding interlenges. national supply chain issues. Making products locally is The pandemic has also pushed having a beneficial impact on entrepreneurs into pursuing the environment. Many of the their dreams, Moforte adds. products made overseas are “The pandemic made people produced at plants that are look and learn and see what polluting the air. Thus, shifting they didn’t like about their that production to cleaner, life,” he says. “A lot of people local manufacturers helps to have had an idea in the back literally clear the air, according of their head and they are to Moforte. Producing products jumping into it. The pandemic locally also reduces transporta- created an upheaval in our tion-related pollution. work lives and made a lot of “These things are produced people pursue other ways of far, far away, and they get making a living. Some decided on ships and travel halfway to launch the business they’ve around the world. Then, they had in their head for the last 10 get on trucks and travel across years.” the country,” he says. “After FORGE charges entreprethat, the entrepreneur has to neurs nothing for its services. ship them back out to their The agency is funded through customers. All of this creates a federal, state, and private ton of pollution.” grants. To learn more, call Before the pandemic, FORGE 413-224-8062 or go online to was serving 35 to 40 entreFORGEmass.org.

the facility in ways unimaginable when the museum was first opened as a modest building on the Springfield College campus in 1968 — nine years after it began selecting its first hall of famers without a physical location. Those early years were crucial, and many of the artifacts that preserve the sport’s history were gathered in those years. The reality of museums, though, is that to preserve the past, they must change in the present with an eye to the future. Otherwise, even those who come once will ask, Why come back? “People want to see new things. We look at Six Flags and how they might unveil a new roller coaster. We’ve upgraded our galleries and brought new reasons for people to visit us,” Doleva said. Among them are 40 video screens in the Hall of Honor. Gone are the plaques that listed the achievements of the hall of famers. “Before this, we had a two-dimensional presentation, the plaque and photos and a couple of graphs about each. It wasn’t that engaging for fans of any age,” Doleva said. He says the new screens bring the past stars to life for their fans. The Kareem Abdul-Jabbar screen, for example, contains rare footage of the former Los Angeles Lakers’ great as a high school player at Power Memorial in New York. The theater has been upgraded and lighting throughout the building is brighter and improved. Other exhibits spotlight the game’s diversity and inclusiveness, with attention paid to contributions by women and African Americans, wheelchair participants (noteworthy, as wheelchair basketball was a forerunner that paved the way for the Special Olympics and other such competitions), and Jewish players who were influential to the sport’s early growth. The National Basketball Players Association, which serves as the labor union for NBA players, has sponsored a union section. The 1891 Gallery, underwritten by MassMutual, honors Naismith’s invention of the sport in Springfield. Almost without exception, the renovations were based on the concept of visitors as not only spectators, but participants. “We’re very interactive. We offer a lot of selfie moments, and that’s another way to communicate and share what we are doing,” Doleva said. “The NBA on TNT exhibit is in a user-friendly format. It was funded by (the cable TV network), and allows the fan to insert himself or herself (with the commentators). We are striving for the balance between technology

Above, Center Court inside the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. At left, a picture of basketball inventor Dr. James Naismith is made up of images of hall of famers. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

the late Kobe Bryant at the forefront, was a painful cost of the pandemic for Springfield, where Doleva had pledged enshrinement would always take place. One consolation is that the Bryant exhibit is one of the major and most popular and artifacts, and give more attractions of the Springfield reasons to be drawn to the hall museum. of fame.” The COVID-19 scourge, The reasons do not always and the logistics involved require connection to baswith the ceremonies, caused ketball. A huge screen was what Doleva emphasized was designed to make Zoom an unavoidable, one-time conferences or other presenexception. In September, the tations “bigger than life” and 2021 ceremonies were back in adaptable to audiences and Springfield, where Doleva says gatherings of all needs and they will stay — including Sept. sizes, Doleva said. 9-10, 2022, when NBA and inThe coronavirus pandemic ternational star Manu Ginobili created the need for an unprec- headlines the nominees whose edented two enshrinements selections will be announced during 2021. The first was a in April. delayed 2020 celebration, As for the future, Doleva said staged in May 2021 at the Mo- the hall of fame will continhegan Sun casino complex in ue expanding its scope with Uncasville, Connecticut. tournaments and other events Losing enshrinement of the not only nationally, but also 2020 class, one of the most around the world. He hopes spectacular in history with Springfield-area residents

understand that is not to begin moving the sport’s legacy out of its birthplace, but to continue fueling the revenue stream that will keep it here. “We have to get our brand out there. All of this supports the mother ship,” he said, referring to the Springfield museum. Doleva said visitations have been up 36% from pre-pandemic levels. That, coupled with the new exhibits and the increased capability to serve as a conference center, banquet facility or meeting spot, convinces Doleva that the hall of fame can look at 2022 with confidence. That does not mean the hall of fame will rest on its laurels, he said. “A modern museum has to upgrade,” Doleva said. “We’re very pleased with the renovation, and we will continue to look for new ways and attractions, and new reasons, for people to want to experience what we have to offer.”

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Shubrick

of empowered individuals who are supported through all stages of their career. CONTINUES FROM PAGE J17 The keyword is community, folks in the social equity because starting a business program, either at the providuring a pandemic selling a sional level or commencing federally illegal drug is not operations. Eventually, these easy. connections would formalAs we look forward to ize themselves into — The 2022, I continue to dream. Block. Yes, opening 6 Brick’s is at The Block is a collective of the top of the list. However, business professionals, fomy dream also takes into cused on creating a fair and consideration the social eqequitable industry to support uity provisions needed that the overall success of Black- will make 6 Brick’s less of The Block president Marcus Williams, left, and vice president and brown-owned cannabis an anomaly and more of the Reginald Stanfield, have a conversation at White Lion Brewery businesses. By focusing on standard. at Tower Square on Nov. 11. The Block is a newly organized trade recruitment of members, But what will it take for association focused on social equity for Black and brown owners policy engagement, access to Massachusetts and the many and operators of cannabis businesses in Massachusetts. capital and thought leaderothers states that will soon (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN) ship to create a community come online? Well to start,

decriminalizing cannabis to allow those who served their time to now engage in the legal market would be a good start. Second, having a social equity fund would prevent the many predatory lending and investing that has plagued the market to occur. Third, transparency in the process so that folks can time their openings and manage funds appropriately. And, last but certainly not least, more engagement from customers to understand if they are supporting mom-and-pop shops with their purchase or corporate entities. I don’t know what the cannabis industry will look

Railroad

Marijuana

CONTINUES FROM PAGE J12

CONTINUES FROM PAGE J17

for customers, giving them the ability to stage and store products, which are then brought directly to job sites. Transloading is a central pillar of the company’s operation across the two distribution facilities, according to Levine, noting it is the act of unloading material from railcars and then loading it onto trucks. “We have these two warehouses right off the highway, both with rail service,” Levine said, adding that products can be shipped out using the company’s truck brokerage. “It’s a pretty rare thing to be fully integrated the way we are. The real major benefit of what we do here is that the guys in the locomotive are on the same team and managed by the same team and people as the guys in the warehouse,” he explained. “It allows us to move material a lot more quickly. ...We’re talking in the millions of tons.” “This is a big and growing part of our business,” Levine said. The rail business was affected by the pandemic, especially in the beginning, according to Levine. “There were times when we were very slow, particularly at the start, with big manufacturers shutting down, and that’s where a lot of our material was coming from,” he said. While some industries they serve were adversely affected due to factory shutdowns or supply chain problems, others, like the lumber industry, thrived, Levine said. Because of that, Levine said they did not see a dramatic downturn. “Because we deal in such a diverse set of industries,” he said, “normalcy for us was something that came back fairly quickly.” COVID concerns derailed the railroad’s annual Santa train, but Levine hopes it will return later this year. Pioneer Valley Railroad’s projections for 2022 are positive, and they are predicting growth, Levine said. The private company does not divulge revenue figures. “The new variant is a concern, but we’re optimistic and we hope to get back to a new

cannabis as an economic engine, John Aubin, the owner of Open Square Properties near Lyman Street, is complaining of odor. In a December letter, Aubin asked the city to impose a moratorium and study odors he traces to GTI and Trulieve. “Wind and weather conditions can spread the odor over long distances. Odors from Trulieve, over 1,000 (feet) from Open Square, are noticeable at Open Square with increasing frequency,” Aubin wrote. In Springfield, the process of allocating marijuana retail licenses has proven controversial, with allegations of pay-to-play. Massachusetts marijuana shops will also soon have to deal with outside competition. Both Williams and Yee said lots of customers come in from out of state. But in 2021 alone, governors in Connecticut, New York, Virginia and New Mexico approved what the industry calls adult use, or the nonmedical, recreational use of cannabis. This month, Mississippi became the 37th state to legalize medical marijuana. Eighteen states, two territories and the District of Columbia have enacted legislation to regulate cannabis for nonmedical use, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Yee said neighboring states are years away from having stores. “When that day comes, we’ll probably see a change in that traffic,” he said. Williams took a more optimistic view. “The normalization of cannabis helps everyone across the board,” he said. As more places legalize marijuana, he said, it brings more people into the customer base.

Jeremy C. Levine is the fourth generation of his family to be involved in the rail freight business. He is business development manager for Pioneer Valley Railroad Distribution Services, a Pinsly Railroad company headquartered in Westfield. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

normal,” Levine said. “The fact is railroading is always a cost-effective, reliable and environmentally responsible way to ship freight.” The company has approximately 30 employees. Layoffs were avoided during the pandemic, and the company is always looking to hire more employees as business increases, Levine said. Pioneer Valley Railroad is anticipating the opening of James Hardie Building Products, which is planning a manufacturing and distribution facility at the former Old Colony Envelope plant, and will be directly served by rail. Both Hardie and the railroad received grants from the Industrial Rail Access Program, announced by the state Department of Transportation last fall. Hardie’s grant will assist the company in building a siding track, while the railroad’s grant focuses on improvements along the Easthampton branch to allow for more efficient switching. The Hardie project means more jobs for the region and additional growth opportunities, as well as more tax revenue for the city, Levine said. Another grant, from the U.S. Department of Transportation, will help fund replacement of the more than 100-year-old East Mountain Road bridge on the Holyoke branch, which Levine said is “regularly hit by trucks” and is a safety concern. The

project will replace approximately 10,000 feet of rail and ties along the Holyoke branch and surface approximately 10.5 miles of track on both sides of the bridge. In November, Levine attended the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association’s annual conference at which his late grandmother, Marjorie “Maggie” Silver, was inducted into its hall of fame recognizing short-line railroad visionaries. Silver led the business after her father, Samuel Pinsly, passed away in 1977. “She took over the railroad at a time when women in the workforce weren’t as common as today. It was incredible,” Levine said of the event. “I was very close with my grandmother growing up, and I accepted the award on her behalf.” While Levine said he never met his great-grandfather who started the business, he hopes he’d be proud that it is now in its fourth-generation of family ownership. Levine’s uncle, John Levine, is the CEO. Levine said railroad service is a “reliable and effective” way of doing business. The routes are not susceptible to car crashes or flooding across state highways, and about four to five truckloads of material can be carried in a single railcar. “The amount of freight we can move per mile is infinitely more,” Levine said. “We’re bullish on the opportunity and future of freight rail.”

CEO Matt Yee shows off local products sold at Enlite Cannabis Dispensary in Northampton, which opened in November. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Those folks will partake when they visit the Berkshires, and he’ll be there to serve them. Meg Sanders, CEO of Canna Provisions, said the idea of normalization also fits with the coming legalization of social consumption. The Massachusetts legislature is weighing rules for “cannabis cafes” where people could come and consume marijuana just like at a bar selling alcohol. “It remains to be seen how that business model will play out,” Sanders said. “It will be one more point of access to a safe cannabis experience.” Meanwhile, the trained cannabis workforce is expanding. Holyoke Community College said 53 students have completed its core program as well as some specific occupational training tracks in the cannabis industry. The college anticipates 50 more students for the remainder this year.

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Payton Shubrick, CEO and founder of 6 Brick’s, a cannabis dispensary planned for 1860 Main St., Springfield, is chief of staff for The Block, a nonprofit trade association of Black and brown business owners and operators in the industry. To learn more about The Block, go online to theblockus.com. Editor’s note: 6 Brick’s will be located on the same property as The Republican.

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CRRC CONTINUES FROM PAGE J6

said Billy Jim, CRRC’s project manager. “As you may know the COVID situation is coming around and we are putting our employee safety as the highest priority.” Besides the pandemic, CRRC has faced a succession of other frustrations, from design flaws, difficulty getting and training a workforce, harsh Trumpera trade policies against China that have not abated under President Joe Biden, and Washington’s animosity toward having a Chinese government-owned enterprise manufacturing transit and rail equipment for the United States market. In Boston, a key issue is the continuing fallout from the March 2021 derailment of a new Springfield-built Orange Line car in Boston. The MBTA said in June that a switch in the tracks where the subway car derailed likely contributed. But also the Springfield-built car had problems with its undercarriage. The more it and cars like it travel, the harder it becomes to turn the assembly that attaches the wheels to the rest of the car, an assembly called the bogie or the truck. In an email, Pesaturo said the MBTA is in the final phase of qualifying a new side bearer pad, a part of that undercarriage identified as the problem. Once the process is completed, all the trains will be outfitted with the new part. CRRC’s Jim said the company is working closely with the T. “We are confident that we are going to be able to return to service and optimize the performance,” he said in a phone interview. “We are working closely with the MBTA to support the whole project.” Jim said CRRC is also working through difficulties getting its materials, including those sourced here in the United States. It’s a problem made worse by the omicron wave of COVID.

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

and Los Angeles to manufacture used to carefully monitor the passenger cars in Springfield. manufacturing process to enThe Los Angeles Metro orsure quality and conformance.” dered 64 subway cars at a cost CRRC is also still dealing of $230 million. with trade disputes. The Trump In 2017, the Southeastern administration slapped 25% Pennsylvania Transportation tariffs on rail cars and parts. Authority, SEPTA, ordered 45 “While in 2018, CRRC double-decker rail cars — 11 cab MA submitted an exclusion cars and 34 trailer cars — at a request to (the United States cost of $137.5 million. Today, Trade Representative) citing the cost is up slightly to $138 various reasons why as a U.S. million. rail car manufacturer (we) Both projects are in the testshould not be deprived from ing and design stages, CRRC competing in a fair and open said. Parts for the first of the market — we were ignored Los Angeles order, which con- and not heard,” Rivera wrote. sists of many models, are due “We continue with the support to arrive here in the middle of of our D.C. lobbying team to 2022. Other cars for the order explore all the options to adare being tested both here and dress the tariffs and legislative in China. issues.” For the Philadelphia order, Fears the Chinese governthe pilot cars are at the final as- ment is seeking to create a A derailment on the MBTA’s Orange Line last year was attributed to a problem with the tracks, sembly and inspection phase in monopoly in the worldwide but the Boston-area subway said the train cars, built by CRRC in Springfield, also had problems China. Despite transit car inCRRC has 403 with their undercarriage. Both agencies are working to fix the problem and get the cars back in the pandemic dustry — or that service. (MBTA PHOTO) and resultant the government employees in increase in mamight use the Massachusetts. “As we were on the right terial costs and cars to spy on The factory in path toward stabilization of time for executAmericans or productivity, we took steps ing the project, Springfield employs threaten nationbackward,” he said. CRRC plans al security — led 332, including 239 some lawmakBut CRRC is adopting new deliver the cars Lean manufacturing techin the middle of union production ers to call for a niques, a worldwide system of 2022. ban on the use employees. The waste reduction and efficienOnce the pilot of federal moncompany continues ey to pay for rail cy developed from Toyota’s cars are delivprinciples. ered and tested to prioritize training and subway cars CRRC has 403 employees in Philadelphia, and development built by Chinese in Massachusetts. The factory the mass promanufacturers. of its workforce, in Springfield employs 332, duction of the In 2019 CRRC including 239 union produccars will last for spokeswoman Lydia received a tion employees. The company a year and a half two-year grace Rivera said. continues to prioritize training in Springfield. period allowing and development of its work“The new it to bid for any force, spokeswoman Lydia multi-level cars will remind transit contract other than the Rivera said. passengers of classic KeyWashington Metro. That grace It has hired 24 staff members Jia Bo, president of CRRC MA, leads Los Angeles Metro Chief stone designs from previous period has expired, and CRRC since November, including two Operations Officer Jim Gallagher on a tour of a pilot car at CRRC’s generations and, meanwhile has signed up no new customSpringfield factory in June. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) electrical and 12 mechanical be equipped with modernized ers. assemblers in Springfield. It devices to facilitate currently Rivera said transit ridership lish a passenger rail car indus- million factory on a former plans to hire as many as 25 available networks to support fell by about 30% nationwide Westinghouse parcel in East new assemblers in the coming try here in Massachusetts. communications,” Rivera said. during the pandemic, hurtSpringfield’s Wason ManuSpringfield cleared for a casino “Subject to the limited space months, bringing the producing demand for new transit facturing, which was one of the development project that never envelope requirements that tion workforce as high as 263. vehicles. Jobs were the priority in 2014 largest makers of railroad cars happened. consider usage on Amtrak track “Again, due to COVID and locomotives in the country, In June 2021, CRRC moved when the administration of in addition to SEPTA’s lines, procurements throughout the operated here from 1845 until into to a new, 42,000-squareGov. Deval Patrick went withthe new multi-level cars will country have been delayed foot warehouse on the site out federal funding on the Red the Great Depression. The still maintain high comfort and put off. It is not clear when and Orange Line projects. That Shelburne Falls Trolley Muse- filled with at least a month’s and safety levels to please local this situation will change,” she worth of materials for the run- ridership and Pennsylvania allowed the state to require that um has a Wason trolley car. said. “CRRC MA is prepared CRRC was one of the bidders ning projects. the cars be at least assembled authorities. ... Current technol- to pursue rail car procurement that identified Springfield as a CRRC also signed deals with ogy, including remote video in Massachusetts. opportunities as they become transit agencies in Philadelphia and virtual inspections are also available.” The goal was also to reestab- site, eventually building a $95

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In tomorrow’s OUTLOOK BUSINESS MONDAY section: Many hands make light work at collaborative workspaces

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EDUCATION

Linda Thompson

Higher ed is economic engine for WMass

Proud past, exciting future Bay Path University marks 125 years

By Ron Chimelis

rchimelis@repub.com

IGHER EDUCAtion administrators are often asked what sort of an impact a college or university has on the economy beyond educating a future workforce. As president of Westfield State University, I meet with leaders of companies, nonprofit organizations and governmental bodies and share with them examples of how we serve as an economic engine for Western Massachusetts communities. We play an important role in the state’s economy as

Outgoing Bay Path University President Carol A. Leary, left, poses for a photo with incoming President Sanda J. Doran in 2020. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

arol A. Leary thinks that if Bay Path University’s secret is finally being revealed to a wider audience, it only affirms what those within the school’s community have known for generations.

Professor Eileen Welch of Bay Path College, left, gives graduate Maria Cruz Segura, of Holyoke, a hand with her gown prior to commencement ceremonies at Bay Path College in Longmeadow in 1990. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

the nation to focus on first-generation college students — and to use the term itself,” said Leary, whose presidency from 1994 to 2020 saw Bay Path not only transformed from a college to a university in 2014, but also gave it a leadership role in several categories. One of those categories was “When Bay Path opened in 1897, online education, which Leary’s administration pioneered in the it was one of the first colleges in

late 1990s. Two decades later, when COVID-19 closed campuses and forced American colleges to rely on remote learning, Bay Path was already positioned in ways few other institutions could claim. Bay Path’s 125th anniversary celebration this year is a nod to the future. Under president Sandra J. Doran, whose inauguration in

SEE BAY PATH, PAGE K17

“We’ve tried to emphasize the positive. In the lowest of times, you are called upon to do your greatest work. That’s always been a part of Bay Path’s DNA, and still is.”

SEE THOMPSON, PAGE K15

CAROL A. LEARY, PAST PRESIDENT, BAY PATH UNIVERSITY

“On a pandemic-related note, we do really consider ourselves fortunate. We’ve had no layoffs and that’s a positive outcome in a difficult period for us. And we continue to expand.”

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Denis G. Gagnon, CEO, Excel Dryer

Lenny Underwood, of Upscale Socks, shows a design showcasing Massachusetts during a launch event at the William Sullivan Regional Visitors Center in Springfield. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Sock designer looks to grow, give back

Top left, Steven Ramsey II works in the polishing room at Excel Dryer in East Longmeadow. At right, Norma Collazo works on a motor on the assembly line. Above, motors are tested on the assembly line. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTOS)

By Aprell May Munford

amunford@repub.com

MANUFACTURING

Excel makes it ‘time to throw in the towel’

A custom New England Patriots cover on a Xlerator Excel Dryer as seen at the company plant in East Longmeadow. (DAVE

By Lori STaBile

Special to The Republican

enis G. Gagnon knew that when it came to electronic hand dryers, there was room for improvement. There was plenty of hot air, but not much drying. “I realized how many people hated using hand dryers,” said Gagnon, president of Excel Dryer, in a recent interview.

SEE EXCEL, PAGE K13

ROBACK PHOTO)

In the summer of 2014, Lenny Underwood had a lucid dream. In this dream he was the owner of a line of sumptuous socks. As an established photographer since 2004, Underwood toyed with the new idea for over a year. Believing in his dream, he finally accepted the idea of launching a new venture. Outside his boundary, with no real retail experience, Underwood began to do research that would turn his dream into a thriving business. “You have got to write it down, hold yourself accountable, or it will vaporize,” Underwood said. “You need to have a tangible plan. With Upscale Socks, I wrote it down, told a friend and toyed with it for a while.” SEE SOCK, PAGE K7

YOU BELONG AT BAYSTATE At Baystate Health we know that treating one another with dignity and equity is what elevates respect for our patients and staff. It makes us not just an organization, but also a community where you belong.

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K2 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Local banking presence is vital in WMass

early two years have elapsed since our lives were forever changed. Even the most forward-thinking among us had likely not envisioned a scenario in which a global pandemic would reshape the world economy and create such upheaval and uncertainty. When faced with the great unknown, it helps to operate on principles and core values that have stood the test of time. Florence Bank was established in 1873 by residents who saw the need for a local bank to provide a safe place to deposit hard earned money and lend it out to folks living and working in the community. Our mission has remained unchanged for 148 years.

The banking system is vital to our entire economic system so no matter the circumstances — even a global pandemic — people need to have

access to their money. Designated an “essential business,” banks had to pivot quickly to ensure business continuity in the face of a situation

that was rapidly evolving. This was local governments. no small task given the oft-changing Serving customers during a panremediation efforts that were being demic presented many challenges. implemented by federal, state, and The unknown virus, fear and anxiety

“So there is outside money coming into Springfield. People say, ‘Why?’ Because Boston and New York are too expensive. You can get value in Springfield.” JIM HICKSON, BERKSHIRE BANK

Jim Hickson, above, is Berkshire Bank regional president for Springfield. At right is Thomas Senecal, president and CEO of PeoplesBank, and PeoplesBank’s VideoBankerITMs, which have been expanded for the use of remote customer service. The one shown is at the bank’s Yankee Pedlar location in Holyoke. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN ; PROVIDED PHOTOS)

BANKING

Pandemic speeds transition to remote customer service

By Jim Kinney

of 2021, and expects that to continue into 2022. “What we saw in 2021 is ountry Bank last year replaced what had been a bank branch that a lot of our customers had in the Ware Walmart with video-enabled machines that let very good years,” he said. He added that banks, not users talk to a teller remotely and do almost anything they just but all local banks, are can do at a bank branch, including cash a check and get their flushhis with capital now, having change to the penny. taken in deposits during 2020 and 2021 as customers earned The success of that conver- ilar observations, along with terior traffic is diminishing,” or collected government aid sion is one impact of the lina general sense of optimism Senecal said. but didn’t spend. The video technology is “Everybody is facing a gering coronavirus pandemic, both for their businesses and for the regional economy as especially helpful when labor shortage,” Hickson which has prompted staffing PeoplesBank has to close said. “What we see is that the shortages and periodic office folks finally put the worst of shutdowns, said Paul F. Scully, COVID-19 behind them and branch lobbies, a frequent stock market had a very good start rebuilding businesses. reality during this most recent year at the same time there president and CEO of Coun“That’s the one thing the COVID surge. The surge try Bank. was all this disruption. A lot “Clearly the reliance on pandemic really changed, kept people out of work, and of our customers had a lot of technology has increased was customer behavior,” said PeoplesBank needs minimum retirements. We even saw it in Jim Hickson, regional vice staffing in order to open a the bank.” quite a bit,” he said. Banks are not immune from “Those who were holdouts, president for Berkshire Bank branch office safely, he said. those who said, ‘No, I still in Massachusetts and ConOverall, Hickson said Berk- staffing issues. necticut. shire Bank had a good 2021, Senecal said PeoplesBank like going into the bank a SEE REMOTE, PAGE K4 couple of times a week,’ now But retail customers and especially a good second half they have seen the benefits of even midsize commertechnology.” cial customers still want a personal relationship with a The interactive teller machine, or ITM, is not new. But banker, and they like to know pre-pandemic, a survey by the there is a nearby branch with jkinney@repub.com

“We can make the decisions faster. We can make ourselves available at a moment’s notice.” DANIEL R. MORIARTY, MONSON SAVINGS BANK

American Bankers Association showed only about a quarter of responding banks or credit unions had them. But about 60% of responding institutions showed interest. Scully said the experience of running a bank during COVID-19 and the successful conversion in Ware changes the way Country Bank approaches retail branches. “Do we need the amount of bricks and mortar if fewer people are coming into banks to do business?” he said. County Bank is not alone. Other bankers reported sim-

people to help if they ever run into trouble. Thomas Senecal, president and CEO of PeoplesBank, said video banking technology is taking over providing personal interaction where face-to-face and in-person interactions cannot happen. PeoplesBank started in 2019 with two video banker machines at the former Yankee Pedlar in Holyoke. It has added several more over the past two years, and now ITMs account for 10% of branch traffic. “We are noticing our in-

Kevin Day

led to mandates, restrictions, and lockdowns of businesses. Everyone was isolated from one another and it was hard to be optimistic. However, out of adversity came incredible creativity and perseverance. At Florence Bank, we quickly reorganized our banking operations and promoted the value and importance of electronic delivery channels like mobile banking, online banking, ATMs and our customer call center. We informed and educated our customers how electronic banking services could be utilized for

SEE DAY, PAGE K11

Credit unions put focus on community

E DEFINE community as “family.” We consider our members part of our financial family, to help them achieve their goals each and every day. Community also means where decisions are being made, right where you live. When decisions are made locally area businesses and individuals benefit. It also means that the person knows “you.” Credit unions are filling this local community banking void. We are in a fastpaced digital banking world and businesses and individuals not only are demanding the latest technology but they also want caring customer, member service. Businesses and individuals want to know that they can contact someone locally, not a faceless entity in an unknown location. Credit unions are not-forprofit and are filling the void being left by several smaller community and larger banks that are now gone because of mergers. Credit unions are the banks of yesteryear with the technology and effectiveness of tomorrow. However, credit unions, especially Arrha Credit Union, are not allowing technology to take over customer service, member service or that local community feel. We are using it to enhance the experience. I do not know how busi-

Michael Ostrowski nesses are getting away with poor customer service. For example, making their customers wait in line for their call to be answered more than a half-hour or wait in long lines. To me, this is not being community-focused and certainly not customer-focused. I think this is why we continue to grow. People are learning about credit unions and realizing they are locally driven while offering all of the same technology that the bigger banks provide. Credit unions are the local choice for all their financial needs without having to pay high fees or rates. Credit unions are founded on giving back to their community not giving money to their shareholders. Many of us today have an interest in our “roots,” or family origin. Similarly, our own credit union has a most interesting origin. In 1929, 31 teachers from the Springfield Public Schools began to meet at SEE OSTROWSKI, PAGE K11

Arrha Credit Union was founded in 1929 by teachers with the Springfield Public Schools as the Springfield Teachers Credit Union. Arrha, meaning money in exchange for a contract, pledge, or earnest, is one of the oldest words in the English language. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

150 Years

of Local, Community Banking Contact Us: 413-267-4646 www.monsonsavings.bank MEMBER FDIC I MEMBER DIF

We’re Your Bank Forever Monson Savings Bank has a rich 150 year local history of helping residents and businesses to reach their financial goals, supporting organizations, and contributing to the overall progress of local neighborhoods. We are here to help you too.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K3

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

We Understand

The St. Germain Team

Tiffany Anderson, CSCP™ Christine M. Andrzejewski, FPQP™ Joshua Bedell, CFP® Brian J. Benson, CFP®, CPA® Richard R. Bleser Michelle Borawski, FPQP™ Michelle Buffis Sylvia Callan, CFA® Heather Casey Carlo A. Centeno Polly Cordle Laura Delmolino, CFP® Sam Delmolino Matthew R. Farkas, CFA® Matthew R. Freitag, CFP® Marianne S. Fresia, CTFA® Trey Fortier, CPA® Bryan A. Greenleaf Mary Kay Hannon Eric Hojnoski Earle Hollister William T. Johnson Christopher Mainard Paul J. Marchese, ChFC® Michael R. Matty, CFA, CFP, ChFC, AIF Patricia M. Matty, AIF® Siobhan G. Matty, AIF®, AAMS® Jane Milanczuk Christopher Milne Stephanie Moore Dennis Morin, CFP® Jane Moss Alexander A. Purshaga Judeth Rainville Marion Roberts Gary M. Schiff Jason Schuck Kelly Selkirk, AIF® Kathy Stewart Timothy W. Suffish, CFA® Tatyana Shut, AIF® William F. Walthouse, CLTC® Thaddeus S. Welch, CFA® Tara Zukowski

ince our beginnings in 1924, we’ve witnessed quite a lot of history. In 98-years time, we’ve had 17 U.S. presidents, insufferable wars, economic unrest, as well as events worth celebrating.

Time waits for nothing and no one. But when it comes to investing and financial planning, time in the market is much different than timing the market. A lot goes into creating a plan that meets your needs and objectives. We understand. Tell us your story in conversation. It’s how a number of our client relationships started.

We’re St. Germain Investment Management.

Member SEC, FINRA, SiPC

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K4 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

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“There is a huge demand for vocational graduates. Unfortunately, we don’t have enough seats for kids who want to go into the trades.” JOAO ALVES, ROGER L. PUTNAM VOCATIONAL TECHNICAL ACADEMY

Eleventh grade students at the Roger Putnam Vocational Technical Academy in Springfield at work on the first day of the school year in August. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

EDUCATION

Careers, college await voke students Options abound for vocational high school grads of 2022

By CAROLYN ROBBINS

Special to The Republican

tudents Scott LaRock and Gabriel Pikul are already working toward their commercial driver’s licenses while on the job at the Springfield Department of Public Works automotive repair facility on Tapley Street, and they haven’t even graduated from high school yet.

Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito talks with instructor Juan Dominicci on Oct. 21 in the Chicopee Comprehensive High School advanced manufacturing shop. The shop received financial support from the state’s Skills Capital Grant Program. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

LaRock, a senior, and Pikul, a junior, both students enrolled in the Roger L. Putnam Vocational Technical Academy’s automotive technology department, are participating in pre-apprenticeship program sponsored by the state Department of Transportation. Joao Alves, director of career and technical training at Putnam, said the students are receiving the training at New England Tractor and Trailer Center, valued at $3,500, at no cost. As Western Massachusetts employers scramble to fill jobs in health care, advanced manufacturing, construction and automotive technology, help is waiting in the wings at the region’s vocational high schools. It’s where students like LaRock and Pikul are preparing to graduate with job-ready skills. “There is a huge demand for vocational graduates,” Alves said. Graduates from high schools specializing in career and technical education — including Putnam, Chicopee Comprehensive and Westfield Technical Academy — are in such high demand that there are not enough of them to fill openings at companies desperate for workers — or for co-op programs, accord-

“The word ‘trade’ used to carry a negative connotation. That has changed so much.” CARL INGRAM, CHICOPEE COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL

ing to officials at the three schools. “Unfortunately, we don’t have enough seats for kids who want to go into the trades,” Alves said. There’s already a waiting list of more than 300 eighth-graders who want to attend Putnam in the fall. With a student body of 1,300, Putnam offers 21 vocational programs, including carpentry, electrical, design and visual communications and information support services. At Westfield Tech, principal Joseph Langone has a student body of 570. His graduates are hot commodities because they are prepared not only to go on to college, if they so choose, but also prepared to take entry-level jobs in the fields of their choice. “We can’t produce graduates fast enough to fill the available jobs — or even the co-op internships opportunities that are out there, ” Langone said.

Vocational school leaders like Langone say their students have an advantage over those at traditional high schools because of the dual aspect of their education. Voke students carry a full load of academic courses along with a concentration in career path of their choice, he said. “They have to meet the same academic standards as students at other high schools, but they have to do it in a shorter time,” Langone said. He explained that half of the school year is devoted to the academics, while half is devoted to career and technical programs. “Vocational school is not for the weak,” Langone said. When students enrolled in Westfield’s aviation technology program graduate, for example, they are prepared to take state and Federal Aviation Administration certification tests, Langone noted. That’s one of the bonuses for participating in internships

for Gulfstream Aerospace Corp., which has a repair facility at Westfield-Barnes Regional Airport. Students at Westfield Technical’s allied health program have opportunities for internships at Baystate Noble Hospital and the Arbors assisted-living facility, he added. “When our kids leave here, they have a number of opportunities for entry level jobs at a lot of places,” he said. At Putnam, co-op and internship programs in fields ranging from health care to automotive technology are available to junior and seniors at the school, according to Alves. Putnam has co-op partnerships with Genesis Health Care, CVS, Smith & Wesson and the Fathers & Sons car dealerships, among others. In concert with those experiences, students can prepare for credentials such as a pharmacy technician license, Alves said. A student’s journey doesn’t necessarily end with that license. It could be an incentive to enroll in pharmacy school, he added. Carl Ingram, director of career and technical education at Chicopee Comprehensive High School, is also seeing an increase in students seeking spots in vocational programs — and in the number of employers who want to hire them upon graduation. “The word ‘trade’ used to carry a negative connotation,” Ingram said. “That has changed so much.” In the past, students enrolled in automotive programs came out of school as ”mechanics” who knew how to change parts, Ingram said. “It was more of an assembly-line type of job,” he said. Today’s automotive grads are considered “technicians” who must possess critical-thinking skills to troubleshoot problems. Vocational education in

SEE VOCATIONAL, PAGE K16

HOLYOKE COMMUNITY CHARTER SCHOOL 2200 Northampton Street Holyoke, MA 01040 • 413-533-0111

Attention Parents Lottery for Student Placement Applications can be received up to Thursday March 3, 2022 at 12:00 noon Pick-up your application at the School or download at www.hccs-sabis.net Lottery will happen on Friday, March 4, 2022 @ 2:00 p.m. Atención Padres Lotería para Ubicación de Estudiantes Aplicaciones serán recibidas hasta el Jueves, 3 de marzo del 2022 a las 12:00 p.m. Recoja su solicitud en la Escuela o imprima en www.hccs-sabis.net Lotería Viernes, 4 de marzo, 2022 @ 2:00 p.m. Dr. Sonia Correa Pope

Remote CONTINUES FROM PAGE K2

has had to hire outside recruiters for the first time. He’s also getting applications from potential bank executives and managers who say they are only interested in work-from-home positions. “From a culture perspective, I’m not there yet,” he said. Country Bank is doing noncontact hybrid workweeks due to COVID concerns. “Everybody was facing the same challenges with the shortage of help and trying to keep up with whatever their volumes were with the right skills on staff,” Scully said. Senecal said the Federal Reserve’s interest rate hike might hurt banks’ mortgage refinance business. People won’t be able to save as much money. But higher mortgage rates might stabilize housing prices and increase the business in purchase loans. “What we really need is more inventory,” he said. “People can’t find homes to buy.” Hickson said the interest rate hike won’t hurt commercial lending. “It won’t break anybody in terms of cash flow,” he said. “Two or three rate increases are not going to break anyone.” Businesses are looking to expand and meet what they see as increasing demand for goods and services. And investors are also looking at Springfield real estate. “So there is outside money coming into Springfield,” he said. “People say, ‘Why?’ Because Boston and New York are too expensive. You can get value in Springfield.” Senecal said he is open to the idea of a merger or acquisition. The labor crunch and continuing costs of providing technology and keeping up with regulations means there is high overhead for banks, and smaller ones might be looking to merge. But there are no specific plans. Meanwhile, PeoplesBank continues to merge or move branches to find the right fit. Country Bank opened a new commercial lending office in Springfield’s Tower Square in October. The office puts those lenders in better touch with the business community.

Daniel R. Moriarty, president and CEO of Monson Savings Bank, said his bank’s customers want one-on-one service. But they increasingly reach out for that service online, through the mobile app or over the phone. “So we have to adapt our communication to fit those types of activities,” he said.

“Those who were holdouts, those who said, ‘No, I still like going into the bank a couple of times a week,’ now they have seen the benefits of technology.” Paul F. Scully, Country Bank

As a smaller, mutually held bank, that personal attention is how Monson competes. That goes for retail customers as well as people looking for commercial loans and business banking. “We can make the decisions faster,” Moriarty said. “We can make ourselves available at a moment’s notice.” Monson Savings Bank, which celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, grew 16% in 2021 and 18% in 2020. It went from $433 million in assets to $591 million in assets over that time. A year ago, Connecticut’s People’s United Bank, which has offices in Greater Springfield, announced that it has been sold to Buffalo-based M&T for $7.6 billion. That deal still awaits federal approval. People’s United Bank locally is the result of a series of mergers and branch closings and includes parts of United Cooperative Bank, once headquartered in West Springfield, and the Bank of Western Massachusetts, which was in Springfield. People’s United Bank bought United Financial Bancorp, the holding company for United Bank, for $759 million in 2019. It’s not related to the PeoplesBank, headquartered in Holyoke.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K5

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

There’s no better team for your needs.

Left to right: Daniel Flynn, EVP, Chief Credit Risk Officer; Amber Zawistowski, Loan Relationship Administrator, Commercial Loan Service; Richard Rabideau, FVP, Senior Commercial Relationship Manager; Tony Liberopoulos, SVP, Regional Manager Commercial Banking; David W. Glidden, President & CEO; Sue Fearn, VP, Cash Management Sales Officer; Eric Jalbert, VP, Business Banking Officer; Gene Rondeau, VP, Senior Relationship Portfolio Manager; Jeff Sattler, FVP, Senior Commercial Relationship Manager

We’re excited to introduce Liberty Bank’s Western MA lending team, with an office at 94 Shaker Road, East Longmeadow. These experienced, well-known bankers have built a reputation for their commitment in working closely with customers to support their business lending needs.

Established in 1825, Liberty Bank is one of the oldest and largest mutual banks in the country. With more than $7 billion in assets, Liberty has 56 banking offices across Connecticut and one in Massachusetts. As a full-service financial institution, Liberty offers consumer and commercial banking, cash management, home mortgages, business loans, insurance and investment services. Named ‘Top Workplace’ by the Hartford Courant every year since 2012 and designated a 2021 Best-In-State Bank in Connecticut by Forbes Magazine, Liberty maintains a longstanding commitment to superior personal service and unparalleled community involvement. Visit liberty-bank.com/Springfield to contact a local lender.

liberty-bank.com

Member FDIC

Equal Housing Lender NMLS #459029 All loans are subject to credit and underwriting approval.

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K6 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

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Insurance agents offer stable careers

S MASSACHUSETTS continues to grapple with COVID-19, the public health and economic impacts of the pandemic have rightly remained front and center in the public conversation. However, if you know where to look, you can also find examples of employers and industries that are not only surviving during the downturn, but actually growing and hiring. Among these employers are local independent insurance agencies. Even now, when every aspect of our lives seems to be in turmoil, we

all still need to insure our vehicles, homes, and businesses against loss. When COVID restrictions were put in place, Massachusetts insurance agents were deemed essential workers. Agencies have kept their doors open (both actually and virtually) to serve their customers and their communities. The Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents is a trade association that represents nearly 1,200 independent insurance agencies across the commonwealth. These small- and medium-sized local businesses employ approximately

10,000 workers in well-paying jobs and contribute more than $1 billion annually to the Massachusetts economy. We recently surveyed our members about the needs and challenges they have been facing during the COVID crisis. Nearly half (47%) of respondents indicated that they currently have or anticipate staff openings, and are looking to hire new talent. Even before the pandemic hit, insurance agencies were actively seeking to expand their workforces. That trend is reflected across the country, with more than 400,000 job open-

Nick Fyntrilakis ings in our industry nationwide. In 2017, U.S. News and World Report ranked “Insurance Agent” No. 4 on its list of best jobs. As the indus-

try continues to evolve in new and exciting ways over the coming year, we will be actively recruiting the next generation of insurance agency professionals. What does an insurance career offer? • Attractive compensation and benefits: We want to see our employees thrive and grow in their careers. That starts with offering good wages and health and retirement benefits. An agency account manager’s salary, for example, can range from $40,000 to $60,000 SEE FYNTRILAKIS, PAGE K9

“Part of the reason for our success is that we are so client focused. Staff genuinely care about the area and our clients and look to be a part of their advisory team.” KRISTINA DRZAL HOUGHTON, PARTNER, MEYERS BROTHERS KALICKA

An archival image of the Meyers brothers, from left, Raymond, Maurice, and Benjamin Meyers, whose accounting firm based in Chicopee merged in 2004 with Joseph Kalicka & Co. accounting firm in Holyoke, forming Western Massachusetts’ largest public accounting firm.

Kristina Drzal Houghton and Howard L. Cheney are partners at the Meyers Brothers Kalicka accounting firm in Holyoke. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

BANKING & FINANCE

Community service woven into fiber of CPA firm MBK became ‘reassuring voice’ during pandemic

By KEITH O’CONNOR

Special to The Republican

ccounting firms such as Meyers Brothers Kalicka in Holyoke found themselves in an unprecedented era of service when COVID-19 emerged in early 2020 — guiding their clients to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing new business world. Suddenly, certified public accountants across the country were sharing valuable information with clients about federal Paycheck Protection Program loans, tax credits and deductions, and government assistance programs. “Everything changed overnight,” said Kristina Drzal Houghton, one of the firm’s partners. “Many clients didn’t know where to begin in dealing with the crisis. We quickly became a reassuring voice for them among all the confusion.” The firm’s roots date back to 1948 when two separate accounting firms were formed — Meyers Brothers in Chicopee and Joseph Kalicka & Co. in Holyoke — eventually merging in

2004 to become the largest public accounting firm in Western Massachusetts. Today, MBK serves clients within a 50-mile radius, including those in construction, manufacturing, professional services, wholesale and distribution, real estate, hospitality, transportation, health care as well as many not-for-profits. A sampling of their clients include Marois Construction, Peter Pan Bus Lines,

Delaney House, the Toner Group, R. A. Graham Co., Monarch Enterprises, the Stack Group, Square One and many others. “In addition to the counsel we offer, it is the support of our staff, many of whom have been with us for a number of years, who as a team add to our ability as an organization to be James T. Krupienski and Kristi A. Reale, partners at Meyers Brothers Kalicka accounting firm in Holyoke, discuss business in Reale’s office. The firm is successful,” said partner Howard L. the largest public accounting firm in Western Massachusetts. (HOANG ‘LEON’ Cheney. SEE MEYERS, PAGE K8

NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

ALWAYS TAKING THE FUTURE INTO ACCOUNT. For 73 years, MBK has provided the knowledge and resources to help our clients, colleagues and community grow and thrive—during tax season and all year round. 3162253-01

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K7

“Even if you fumble, it’s OK. It is a part of your story. The fumbles can become steppingstones.” LENNY UNDERWOOD, UPSCALE SOCKS

Sock

Lenny Underwood, owner of Upscale Socks, donates socks to SquareOne in Springfield. Also pictured are SquareOne employees Alisha White and Latirah Cisero and students.

CONTINUES FROM PAGE K1

Tina D’Agostino inside her traveling business, Blooms Flower Truck, based in Westfield. She offers everything from pop-up shops to workshops to floral arrangements for individuals. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

SMALL BUSINESS

Pandemic prompted reinvention

By JANICE BEETLE

Special to The Republican

ften, the memories that pop up on Tina D’Agostino’s Facebook page have something to do with flowers — a bouquet she put together, photos she took of blooms on a vacation or something lovely she found in her own garden. This amuses her, now that she runs a business centered on flowers. D’Agostino grew up with a grandmother who had a green thumb and a mom who worked in a floral shop. She loves the beauty and serenity of flowers. At 51, after working for several decades in event planning and marketing, COVID-19 swiftly taught the Southwick resident that she should reinvent herself. On Mother’s Day, she launched Blooms Flower Truck and Studio out of her Lexus, and she now offers everything from pop-up shops to workshops to floral arrangements for individuals. D’Agostino will even come design your summer planters for you. “The business was one my blessings that came out of a darker time, and it really helped me. I feel so energized because I can maximize my creativity,” D’Agostino says. “COVID accelerated my entrepreneurial spirit and allowed my lifetime of experiences to come together. I was able to create this concept and bring it to life.” In her marketing work, the bulk of which was spent planning and promoting events for City Stage with Springfield Performing Arts Development Corp., D’Agostino used her left brain most. “Now, the other side of my brain is working, and I can still use the accounting and marketing skills I have,” she says. D’Agostino was president of the nonprofit when its closing was announced in 2018. She worked in devel-

opment for a short time and began to feel unfulfilled. As she brainstormed how to get back into event planning, the pandemic ripped through the world, making events a scarcity. She leapt on the chance to pivot, recalling a flower truck she once saw in Nashville. “I thought it was the coolest thing,” she remembers. After purchasing a Mercedes Sprinter, D’Agostino tricked it out with shelving, a workspace and a counter, and she opened a studio in the Mill at Crane Pond in Westfield, where she has a retail shop and merchandise as well

“There’s no shortage of inspiration. I’m inspired to be meeting other women business owners and entrepreneurs. I’m learning a lot from them as well.”

Tina D’Agostino operates Blooms Flower Truck out of this studio in Westfield, situated in the Mill at Crane Pond at 77 Mill St. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

(SQUARE ONE PHOTO)

for good while others flourished. Underwood said the economic downturn hit him in ways that will stick with him forever. “I was a little nervous. I kept in mind COVID is worldwide. With my photography in March 2020, I had a lot of clients canceling events. Receiving cancellation emails was daunting. But I was still able to be creative and make things happen,” Underwood said. “I also took advantage of the time and applied for grants. I did not idle or harp.” Underwood had to think outside the box to stay relevant. Updating social media and rethinking marketing and advertising techniques for both businesses proved necessary. With Upscale Socks, he launched timely design campaigns to foster important conversations, made professional partnerships at the state level, offered a scholarship and made donations to community programs Square One, Educare Springfield, Springfield Public Schools and Friends of the Homeless. The scholarship will benefit a graduating senior at Springfield Central High School. “Each year, we will select another school in the Springfield area,” he said. “If someone purchases our ‘fly

like an eagle’ socks, a portion of the purchase will go towards the scholarship. The application will be available in the guidance office at Springfield Central High School from April 1-30 2022. “My why is because I always enjoyed giving back to the community,” he said. “To whom much is given, much is required. “The pandemic allowed me to be creative in marketing,” Underwood said. “With Upscale Socks I was reaching out to random people on the streets, social media and former classmates to ask about photographing them with Upscale Socks on. And that was well received.” Taking the good with the bad in business was a part of Upscale Socks making it here and building his success story. “I was thinking of ways to be on a larger scale so I had to think outside the box. I think you have to understand who your customers are. Being authentic and not influenced. Do what works best for you and your customer,” Underwood said. “Believing in yourself and being consistent so you have a clear idea what you want to do and attack it. Enjoy the process. Even if you fumble, it’s OK. It is a part of your story. The fumbles can become steppingstones.”

TINA D’AGOSTINO, OWNER, BLOOMS FLOWER TRUCK & STUDIO

A floral arrangement by Tina D’Agostino, owner of Blooms Flower Truck. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

as a cooler for flower storage. Much of the work of designing bouquets happens in the 700-square-foot space. So far, business is, well, blooming. D’Agostino sets up regularly at the Longmeadow Shops, and she also has held pop-up shops at Glendale Ridge

His research led him to a seven-week program for entrepreneurs. “In 2015 I started a program which was then called SPARK Holyoke,” Underwood said. “It really made a difference. Having someone hold you accountable with getting data and manufacturing leads was important. Having homework every week helped keep my dream afloat. It is easy to get busy in life, but they were a guiding light.” SPARK Holyoke, now EforAll, is a key element in what helped transform Underwood’s dream into Upscale Socks. Navigating entrepreneurship to turn a dream into a reality, to Underwood, is all about putting in the work to create your own lane, sharing that idea and not listening to the naysayers. “It is really about self-investment, doing the research and creating something tangible. When I was 17 and I started photography, I didn’t have that support in entrepreneurship,” Underwood said. With support and guidance from SPARK Holyoke, Underwood said he gained an edge and uses it to encourage other young entrepreneurs thinking of taking the same career path. “I insisted on creating my own way,” Underwood said. “Just today a former student posted on social media, ‘I can’t wait to work for myself,’ and I responded, ‘Well what is holding you back?’ He said, ‘Nothing, it’s me.’ I feel like it is never too early to start, especially in the economic climate right now.” The strain of the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly hard on the nation’s small businesses. Many shut down

Vineyard in Southampton, at grand openings at other businesses and a golf tournament. “Most people so far enjoy that it’s a different delivery model,” she says. “It’s unique. I try to use all natural materials and wrap bouquets in paper and twine. My style of arranging is also unique and modern, and I’m getting a lot of compliments on my talent.” At the moment, Blooms is a one-woman show, but D’Agostino knows there is much growth work to do. She has plans to pitch businesses on her vision: “I’d pull up and have their customers, staff, etc., come out and get a gift of flowers.” She already has such events secured for Valentine’s Day and Mother’s Day. Being busy has been a great problem to have, but as she plans for growth, supply chain issues worry her, as do staffing concerns and planning for measured growth. She’s inspired to do the work of learning. “There’s no shortage of inspiration,” she says. “I’m inspired to be meeting other women business owners and entrepreneurs. I’m learning a lot from them as well.”

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K8 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

ENTREPRENEURS

‘My story is helping me sell my soap’ Business helped heal entrepreneur, create livelihood By ELIZABETH LAFONDCOPPEZ

Special to The Republican

Karol Hernandez never imagined 10 years of suffering from hormonal imbalance would lead her to open her own successful business. And, eventually, get relief from symptoms. Pure Life Soap Co., was born out of intense research and learning through holistic health topics that were part of Hernandez’s elective courses during her studies to earn her master’s degree in clinical psychology. Eventually, Hernandez was diagnosed with multiple fibroids and high estrogen levels, which are caused by

an imbalance of hormones. “I discovered most chemicals in foods and body products can cause hormonal imbalances,” she said. Digging deeper, Hernandez discovered how commercial soaps are filled with chemicals. “These chemicals are one of the biggest culprits in disrupting women and men’s endocrine systems,” she added. Hernandez thought to herself, “What is the one product I use every day on my body?’ Soap was her answer. “If people change one product at a time, it’s one baby step toward reducing chemicals on the body,” she explains. Taking another course on herbs and essential oils led Hernandez to incorporate them into her handmade soaps and lotions. “Essential oils have many different healing properties,” she added. One of Hernandez’s discoveries is how oregano essential oil has great healing properties for acne. “My oregano

SEE SOAP, PAGE K11

“I was very afraid of sharing my story because it’s personal. But my story is what’s helping me sell my soap, and hopefully help others.” KAROL HERNANDEZ, PURE LIFE SOAP CO.

Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, executive director for Holyoke’s EforAll program, left, and Michelle Santiago, one of the program’s graduates-turned mentors. right. The program has established a Spanish-language cohort to connect with Latinx entrepreneurs. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE

“I didn’t know all the components of an enterprise. But, with the help of my mentors, who were a key piece throughout the process, I was able to focus on my business idea, its structure, how to calculate my prices, and continue to grow.” MICHELLE SANTIAGO, MICHELETTE CLAY ART

REPUBLICAN)

ENTREPRENEURS

EforAll adds Spanish-language effort Curriculum helps Latinx small-business owners

of EforAll, where applicants can join alumni and existing business owners in peer-lead By ELIZABETH LAFOND-COPPEZ meetings,” Murphy-Romboof my mentors, who were Special to The Republican letti added. “EForever is free, a key piece throughout the process, I was able to focus meets once a month, and it’s n 2018, Entrepreneurship for All on my business idea, its designed to help businesses (EforAll) was launched in Holyoke, with things like new customstructure, how to calculate er needs, or ways to make up my prices, and continue to changing the lives of business owners. grow.” lost revenue because of the And, today, it continues to grow and Santiago encourages others pandemic.” evolve, now meeting the community to apply for EparaTodos. “I EforAll’s coworking space became a mentor to be able on High Street is reopened needs more than ever. to share everything I learned for entrepreneurs who may Its new program, Eparaher business idea. She creates to help other entrepreneurs,” need an address, mail or a she said. “I want to continue place to meet clients. Todos, is a Spanish-language handmade clay jewelry and contributing to EparaTodos curriculum that was first sells it on etsy.com. To learn more about EforAll, EForever, EforAll’s and help our Hispanic com“All the classes gave me a available in the summer coworking space, or to munity.” lot of knowledge and tools of 2020. EforAll is a free, volunteer for EparaTodos, In its mission to continue one-year program that offers to adapt them to every facet applicants business training, of my venture. I only knew to support small businesses, go online to eforall.org/ ma/Holyoke (English), EforAll is launching anothmentorship and networking. how to create my earrings,” “We have many folks in Santiago said. “I didn’t know er new program this spring eforall.org/es/ma/Holyoke called EForever. Western Massachusetts who all the components of an (Spanish) or email holyoke@ “EForever is an extension are bilingual, and sometimes enterprise. But, with the help eforall.org. it’s easier to learn in your native language,” said Tessa Murphy-Romboletti, executive director for Holyoke’s EforAll program. “It’s been amazing to engage the Spanish-speaking community to make sure we’re helping folks not typically represented in economic development.” It took Western Massachusetts’ EforAll one year to get EparaTodos off the ground, and, despite complications around COVID-19, it had 25 applicants for its first, all virtual session. “We’ve had a total of 24 students since the summer of 2020, and we have 12 entrepreneurs in our current winter session and all members are women,” said Murphy Romboletti. “We are so happy to see EparaTodos come to fruition,” she added. “The work we do can be life-changing, and really transform someone’s financial independence and confidence.” Michelle Santiago’s business, Michelette Clay Art, says EparaTodos was an excellent platform to develop

Unsure which career path is right for you?

Karol Hernandez, owner of Pure Life Soap Co., holds some of her products. She created her soaps in response to a personal health condition and has built a small business with her handmade, all natural soaps. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Meyers

they spend serving on area boards,” Cheney said, noting for the past two years as a firm it helped to build houses with Habitat for Humanity. As 2022 began, Cheney reflected on the fact that some people regard accountants as “good historians.” “Historians in the sense that along with our clients we look back at what happened in the past year (in terms of their business),” he said. “But now we are also spending more time looking forward with them. For example, we are helping our clients to project and prepare for what might come next in the sense of business transactions or what the forecast for their business might look like under different scenarios.”

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just need to talk aloud and come up with the answers themselves, or it is us asking CONTINUES FROM PAGE K6 the right questions that As Cheney noted, its helps them to get to the right services go beyond practical answer.” The MBK team is comaccounting, auditing, taxaprised of some 50 profestion and financial planning sional and administrative to include proactive busistaff, including five partners, ness strategy and serving who in addition to Cheney as trusted counsel to their and Houghton include Rudy clients. “Business owners today are looking for an M. D’Agostino, Kristi A. Reale and James T. Krupiadviser who understands them and their business. So, enski. As the phrase on the especially with longstandfirm’s website states — “Peoing clients, we advise them ple. Culture. Community. Service.” — all are commuon many different transacnity minded. tions,” he said. “Part of the reason for our “Community services is success is that we are so cli- really a part of the fiber of ent focused. Staff genuinely our business. In addition to care about the area and our the financial donations by clients and look to be a part our staff to worthy organizations, we support them of their advisory team,” in their many volunteer Houghton added. “We are an ear to listen. Even if they efforts, including the time

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K9

“We build and sell direct to our customers. We have no middleman, which allows us to keep our mattresses priced thousands less than comparable mattress. We don’t battle anybody other than the actual industry of mattresses.” WILLIAM LAMIRANDE, GENERAL MANAGER, YANKEE MATTRESS FACTORY A quilted top is stapled to the wood frame of a boxspring at Yankee Mattress Factory in Agawam. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

BUSINESS

Yankee’s mattresses are made to order

Seamstress Maria Hartmann at work at Yankee Mattress Factory. Yankee’s mattresses are tailormade and hand-sewn in the Agawam factory. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Tailor-made and hand-sewn in Agawam

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

hen you pull back the covers on beds in the high-roller suites at MGM Springfield, the name you’ll find on the mattress is Yankee. After a night of high stakes poker, MGM wants its players to sleep in comfort, win or lose. That’s why the casino does business with Yankee Mattress Factory in Agawam.

“That’s one reason we’ve got customers all over the country. They stay at MGM, love the mattress and order one for themselves. We build it, roll it into a box and ship it anywhere in the country,” says William “Bill” Lamirande, vice president of retail operations and general manager at Yankee. Yankee Mattresses are tailor-made and hand-sewn at the company’s Agawam factory. Yankee sells its mattresses at its four retail locations in Northampton, Greenfield, Springfield and Agawam. The company stocks very few mattresses in its stores. Each mattress is handmade to order. “If a customer comes in and has to have something on the spot, we’ll have something for them,” says Lamirande. “But most people are patient enough for the quality and pricing to wait. We’re only seven to 10

Fyntrilakis CONTINUES FROM PAGE K6

organizations. During the pandemic, they have stepped up in ways both big and small, giving generously of their time and money to the communities and people they serve. The Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents is committed over the coming year to identifying new talent,

Michael Lynch

ness because customers went online to find their mattresses. In fact, Lamirande says, business jumped 5% in 2020 and 25% during 2021. “That’s when our online business took off. People were home more. They had more time to observe their house and realize how old their mattresses were,” says Lamirande. “People stopped, slowed life down and realized they could use a mattress.” The pandemic also focused people’s attention on hygiene and cleanliness, and that helped Yankee’s business. And, he adds, consumers started rallying around the flag, making his made-in-America mantra resonate with consumers. “People’s hygiene got better, and they associated it with made in America. It was all about American-made,” Lamirande says. “If you look at the fine print of most mattresses it says some parts or

partnering with organizations to create a workforce development pipeline, and working to ensure that our vital industry weathers this pandemic and remains strong for decades to come. If you are interested in learning more about a career in insurance, or helping us build our talent pipeline, visit our

Barbara-Jean Deloria

Michael Moriarty

Joe Raco builds a boxspring at Yankee Mattress Factory in Agawam. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

materials are imported. The pandemic made American-made more popular, and we’re the only company around that’s 100% American-made.” Lamirande says Yankee Mattress Factory has customers in every one of the lower 48 states. The company supports its four Western Massachusetts stores with a strong advertising

Attorney Anthony C. Bonavita

association’s career headquarters online at: https:// www2.massagent.com/ careerhq. Nick Fyntrilakis is president and CEO of the Massachusetts Association of Insurance Agents. To learn more about the association, go online to massagent.com.

James Montemayor

campaign. Those commercials are bleeding over the border into Connecticut, bringing droves of customers from the Nutmeg State to Yankee stores. Lamirande says he will be keeping a close eye on business coming from Connecticut in 2022, doing what he can to pull business from the south in the new year.

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plus benefits, depending on level of experience. • Advancement opportunities: An entry-level agency employee can pursue training and professional designations that pave the way for continuous advancement — with or without a college degree; • Stability: More than 40% of Massachusetts insurance agencies have been in business for over 50 years. Many individuals who run agencies or companies are retiring. They are looking for new talent to bring in and perpetuate the businesses they’ve spent their lifetimes building up; • Flexibility: An insurance agency career offers work-life balance, with a schedule that can accommodate vacation time, travel, and seeing your kids’ Little League games. During the pandemic, the vast majority of our agencies have nimbly moved to either a hybrid or fully remote work environment to accommodate employees and customers alike; • Meaning: Insurance is a helping career, where you make a real difference in people’s lives by helping them rebuild when they suffer a loss; and • Community: Independent agents know and care about their clients as friends and neighbors, coaches and volunteers. Association member agencies contribute a total of $8.5 million to charities annually, and donate countless hours volunteering for local civic, cultural, and religious

days from build to delivery. They’ve been waiting 20 years, they’re happy to wait a few more days.” Yankee mattresses are sold only in stores the company owns and operates. They’re not available at independent retailers and that’s what keeps prices low, according to Lamirande. He says a mattress that Yankee sells for $1,800 would cost close to $3,000 at a third-party retailer. “We build and sell direct to our customers,” he explains. “We have no middleman, which allows us to keep our mattresses priced thousands less than comparable mattress. We don’t battle anybody other than the actual industry of mattresses.” The company employs 15 in its factory and has five retail employees. Yankee Mattress Factory had to close all four of its stores during the pandemic but that didn’t hurt busi-

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K10 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

“Many students ask themselves, is college even possible? What we offer is that anything is possible. If your desire is to attend a prestigious four-year school, you can start here and finish anywhere — anywhere.” CHRISTINA ROYAL, HOLYOKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE PRESIDENT

Above left, students study human anatomy in this undated photo provided by Holyoke Community College. At center, nursing students and faculty work with practice dummies in 1996. At right, a culinary arts student prepares salads in 2010. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTOS)

EDUCATION

Holyoke Community College celebrates 75th year as trailblazer

PILLARS OF MEMBERSHIP

By Ron Chimelis

rchimelis@repub.com

ot only can the origin of the Massachusetts community college system be found in Holyoke, but the history of Holyoke Community College predates even the concept itself.

“We existed before community colleges were even enacted. Our early roots speak to the innovation we represent today,” said Christina Royal, the president of an institution marking 75 years of educating a remarkably diverse range of students. Royal is just the fourth president of a college whose founding director, George E. Frost, served from 1946-75. Much credit for the college’s growth has gone to David M. Bartley, a former Massachusetts speaker of the House who followed Frost as president, and used both his political strength and educational zeal to set HCC on its modern course. A 75th anniversary celebration is planned for May 5, “dependent on things (with the COVID-19 pandemic) moving in the right direction,” Royal said. When it began, HCC was hardly the institution it is today. Its 1946 beginnings as Holyoke Graduate School, later Holyoke Junior College, came more than a decade before the Massachusetts community college system was formally created between 1958 and 1960. “We did not have our own faculty, so we had professors from Smith College, Mount Holyoke, University of Massachusetts, American International, Springfield College, Westfield State and Amherst College,” said 1958 graduate Margaret “Peg” Wendlandt, who, with her husband, Gary, has been a major donor to the school. “Those professors were looking for a little extra money, so we were lucky. We got the best and the brightest,” said 1956 graduate Francis M. Kane, a former trustees chairman who still serves on the HCC Foundation board of directors. The school also lacked a

Above, students celebrate their graduation from Holyoke Community College in 2017. At left, students check out the Homestead Market at college on Oct. 21. HCC that month became the first college in Massachusetts to accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for students receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

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physical structure. “We went to school in the late afternoon or early evening at Holyoke High School,” Kane said. By 1968, Holyoke had a new high school and the college used the former building. But on Jan. 4, 1968, it burned to the ground, causing students to take classes at various locations while the city successfully scrambled to keep the college in Holyoke — and, by 1974, open a new campus. For many whose connection predates those transformative years, Holyoke Community College remains special. “My older brother had gone to Holyoke Junior College. My grandmother and uncle lived at 96 Beech St., and I could walk there,” Wendlandt recalled. “I had graduated from high school and had a job as a long-distance telephone operator for New England (Telephone and Telegraph Co.). They had maybe 200 of those, a dozen supervisors and one chief operator, and I didn’t see much of a future there, so I decided to go to college.” By July, it was too late to apply for other schools. With Frost’s encouragement, Wendlandt chose the college down the street. “I loved it. I blossomed there, if you will, and went on to UMass and then to work at MassMutual,” she said. Wendlandt’s husband did not attend the college, which adopted its current name in 1964, but he has become a partner in supporting it. “The path to success for any institution is when the people who have had success, like my wife, give back,” he said. Royal’s 2017 arrival came as community colleges continued rising, not just as affordable avenues for a two-year associate degree,

• • • • • •

(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

but as a pathway to four-year colleges, the workforce and lifelong learning. Royal said old perceptions of limited scope linger, but progress is being made. “We think of the front end (of learning), but HCC is also a launching pad. Our alumni include successful doctors,

attorneys, leaders of nonprofits and other critical careers. The strength of any college is what its students contribute to the world,” Royal said. “There is still some stigma to community colleges as a last resort, but we are much more — a first option,” Royal said.

From 1964-75, Holyoke had rare political influence, with either Bartley serving as speaker of the House or fellow Holyoker Maurice A. Donahue as Senate president — and for a brief time, both at once. Kane credits both for fueling HCC’s modern transformation, with particular praise for

INCLUDED IN MEMBERSHIP

Bartley, whose 29-year run as HCC president ended in 2004. “This year has been the 75th year of both the Boston Celtics and HCC. Red Auerbach built the Celtics, and David Bartley was the Red Auerbach of HCC,” Kane said.

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George Frost, the first president of Holyoke Community College, stands by the main college sign after the name was changed from Holyoke Graduate School to Holyoke Junior College in 1947. (HOLYOKE COMMUNITY COLLEGE PHOTO)

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Day CONTINUES FROM PAGE K2

their safety and convenience and increased our call center staffing to assist with the high volume of customer inquiries. In the end, the employees of Florence Bank, and the banking industry in general, performed exceptionally well in meeting the needs of our customers during a very stressful time. One major banking success story that came out of the pandemic was the deferral programs implemented for customers negatively impacted by the pandemic. Many banks offered deferment of principle and interest payments on home mortgages and business loans. These programs gave people the time they needed to become re-employed or have their business recover without the fear of losing their property. At Florence Bank, we had hundreds of people take advantage of these programs for periods up to one full year. Most of these individuals have now recovered financially. The pandemic has produced uneven impacts on people’s economic lives. Some have

lost jobs or had businesses close while others have experienced increases in business and personal income. Large amounts of government aid have flowed to individuals and businesses through numerous programs. While a good deal of that money has been used for living or operating expenses, some of these funds have been saved, resulting in significant deposit growth for the nation’s banks. This has produced high levels of liquidity that will be available for lending as the country emerges from the pandemic and the economy continues to expand. At Florence Bank, we believe a local banking presence is vital to the local economy. In 2021, we opened our third branch in Hampden County in the last four years. With locations now in West Springfield, Springfield and Chicopee to complement our nine locations in Hampshire County, we are certainly going against the trends. We will continue to expand our geographic footprint in the coming years throughout the Pioneer Valley. Heading into 2022, the economic outlook is good. Many areas of the economy have

totally recovered and, in some cases, expanded. Some sectors that were hit hard by the pandemic like travel, entertainment, and hospitality have shown significant improvement in business activity and should continue to recover in 2022. Consumer demand for goods is strong, indicating an ability and desire to spend some of the savings that has been built up during the last two years. We would like to thank our customers, employees, and businesses that partner with us to make our local communities great places to live and work. We are proud to be “Making it in Western Massachusetts,” and we look forward to 2022 with optimism based on experience. We’ve seen the dedication, creativity, teamwork, and perseverance of our employees and customers. These are the characteristics that give us hope for a productive and prosperous year ahead. We hope the same holds true for all of you. Kevin Day is president of Florence Bank. To learn more about Florence Bank and its services, go online to florencebank.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K11

Ostrowski

Aug. 7, 1989. In 2015, after examining how to better serve all of our members and create CONTINUES FROM PAGE K2 an identity that truly rep32 Spring St. as an attempt resents who we are today, we to ensure financial security decided to change our name among its members. After to Arrha Credit Union. several meetings, the SpringArrha, meaning money field Teachers Credit Union in exchange for a contract, received, from the Massachu- pledge, or earnest, is one of setts commissioner of banks the oldest words in the Enand the secretary of state, a glish language and reflects our certificate of incorporation on pledge to assist our members Oct. 5, 1929. Phillip Fox was in reaching their financial the first president and record- goals by providing superior ed assets of $2,160. products and services in a For many years the credit personal manner. union operated after school The credit union has conout of Room 125 at the High tinued to expand since that School of Commerce until time and opened a branch in property at 427 State St. was West Springfield at 63 Park purchased in the 1960s. The Ave. on June 1, 2016. Since membership continued to our humble beginnings, we grow over the next several de- have grown and expanded our cades until it became necesmembership to a much bigger sary to expand once again. community. Ground was broken on the Family is community. current main office at 145 During the past two years our Industry Ave. in Springfield staff has rallied to help our on Nov. 4, 1988, and the credit members during this panunion opened its doors on demic. We did not close our

drive-up or stop answering our phones with a real person. That, to me, is being a caring family and being community focused. We watched other financial institutions with lines around the corner. It didn’t happen in the Arrha Credit Union house! As more and more local community banks merge, it has left an opportunity for credit unions, especially Arrha Credit Union, to fill this void and become the local choice. Credit unions have been in the community since the 1920s. We are excited about the future because the community is seeking to be part of a caring community, while expecting the latest technology. Arrha Credit Union is located in West Springfield and Springfield, and we are filling that void. We are the local choice. Michael Ostrowski is president and CEO of Arrha Credit Union. To learn more about Arrha, go online to arrhacu.com.

Hernandez envisions one day opening her own brick-and-mortar storefront, but for 2022 she plans to focus on her website, social media presence and giveaways to customers.

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During a community night event in July at the Springfield Innovation Center, Karol Hernandez, owner of Pure Life Soaps, introduces her products to guests. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Soap

much and incorporate high quality fragrance oils into my soaps,” she said. CONTINUES FROM PAGE K8 In November 2020, Hersoap is something I must have nandez says she “took the in my home, and it’s helped plunge” and officially estabme and my daughters,” she lished her soap business. She said. was referred to sign up for Hernandez says she noHolyoke’s EforAll program ticed a difference in her skin for small businesses and and symptoms 30 days after entrepreneurs like her. she switched to her natu“The 12-week program ral soap. “Acne along the was very intense, and they jawline is an indicator that helped me to bring my busisomething is mis-balancing ness to the next level,” she hormones and that’s where said. “The biggest take away I was getting it,” she added. from EforAll was networking “The soap helped me to — that connection was really balance my skin.” important for me!” Hernandez was born in Pure Life Soap Co., prodCosta Rica, and she realized ucts can be found at the how soaps with tropical Hadley Farmers Market all scents like guava, mango or winter, which runs every papaya are difficult to find. “I other Saturday at the Hamplove these tropical fruits so shire Mall, and at the Holy-

oke Farmers Market during the summer months. Orders can be made through its website at purelifeshop. com, Facebook page or Instagram, and custom orders can be requested. Hernandez envisions one day opening her own brickand-mortar storefront, but for 2022 she plans to focus on her website, social media presence and giveaways to customers. She hopes to hire an employee to assist her, as she’s also continuing her career as a full-time clinical supervisor. “I was very afraid of sharing my story because it’s personal,” she said. “But my story is what’s helping me sell my soap, and hopefully help others.”

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K12 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Faculty at the UMass University Without Walls, above, include, from left, Joseph Bartolomeo, associate provost for interdisciplinary studies, Jacqueline Castledine, department chair and senior lecturer, and John Wells, senior vice provost for lifelong learning. At left, a group of UMass Amherst University Without Walls students and staff, pictured in the early 1970s. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN; UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS)

EDUCATION

University Without Walls is still breaking down barriers

By Ron Chimelis

MASSACHUSETTS PHOTOS)

rchimelis@repub.com

or nearly 20 years, Sarah Rose Stack found doors closed to her — all for the sake of one college credit. Those doors are opening now, she says, because University Without Walls allowed her to finish her education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, which would not have been possible had only traditional avenues existed. The 50th anniversary of the University Without Walls (UWW) Department of Interdisciplinary Studies is being celebrated as testament to modern needs and visionary thinking. UMass Amherst was one of 19 U.S. institutions to start a University Without Walls as part of a national movement to increase access to higher education for nontraditional students. dance instructor, professional cheerleader for the Boston Cannons lacrosse team, and in marketing and communications. But she had left UMass one credit shy of graduation, and that was enough to deny Stack so much as an interview in jobs she sought, let alone a chance to be hired. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Stack turned to UWW. “I decided it was time to button that little chapter up,” she said. Stack, 38, completed her degree work last year. She is now taking graduate courses online from home for Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, and says UWW changed her life. She’s not alone. “I began taking courses toward a bachelor’s degree at Southern New Hampshire University,” said Georgia Malcolm, an immigrant from Jamaica who learned about UWW through her work in the Amherst regional school system. In 2010, she switched to UWW to finish her bachelor’s degree. “It made more sense. It was more local and had a great reputation,” Malcolm

said. Most of her learning was online, though she did meet every two weeks with a class at the university’s Springfield campus. As a single mother with a full-time job, and as a guardian to a disabled brother, Malcolm saw UWW as her only path to graduation. Last year, Malcolm was awarded the Jack M. Wilson Presidential Scholarship. She was 55 years old. “It took me 10 years to get my degree, but life happens. As a traditional student, that never would have happened,” she said. The program’s name indicates flexibility, but UWW does have walls. “We have online programs aimed at degree completion, but we also want to connect students with the campus,” Wells said. “Maybe it’s to hear a guest lecturer. We think it’s important for them to be connected with the brick-and-mortar setting, too, when possible.” Many classes are offered in traditional campus settings, but Wells said the program’s success is found in its ability

SEE UMASS, PAGE K16

Gary Bernhard, pictured in the 1970s, was a longtime director of UMass Amherst’s University Without Walls who has since retired. (UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS PHOTO)

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Considered radical and even revolutionary at its founding in 1971, and not accepted by all corners of the education world, the concept became a staple of 21st-century education years before the COVID-19 pandemic forced a complete rethinking of higher education. Many institutions offer similar programs, yet only two, UMass and Northeastern Illinois University, still use the UWW name. “Most nontraditional students started out as traditional students. Then life happens,” said John Wells, UWW’s senior provost for lifelong learning. “We offer a clear pathway for people to complete their education, regardless of what life throws at them.” For Stack, UWW spared her the unhappiness of being denied upward mobility. “I went to UMass as a traditional student, a music education major in 2001. Then I had my first child with my husband and it changed my career trajectory,” Stack said. The Agawam resident found employment as a

Jackie Stanton, an early UWW staff member, pictured in the early 1970s, above. Below is Edward Harris, one of the first UWW directors. (UNIVERSITY OF

“Most nontraditional students started out as traditional students. Then life happens. We offer a clear pathway for people to complete their education, regardless of what life throws at them.” JOHN WELLS, UNIVERSITY WITHOUT WALLS SENIOR PROVOST FOR

LIFELONG LEARNING

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Excel CONTINUES FROM PAGE K1

same difficulties as other manufacturers and industries with supply chain disruptions and extended lead times on key components,” Gagnon said. “It makes production more difficult and hand-to-mouth at times.” Gagnon, a Western Massachusetts native, previously had worked at Milton Bradley as vice president interna-

keeps the water in the sink, as the dryer is right next to the faucet hanging over the basin, and dries hands in 14 seconds and has a HEPA filtration system. The company also recently debuted the Xlerator mobile hand hygiene station which provides a touchless solution to hand drying for medical workers and others on the

Gagnon said the private company is back on track and is off “to an excellent start” for 2022. It is projecting a 10% business increase. From 2020 to 2021, sales dropped 8%. tional (Milton Bradley was acquired by Hasbro, the toymaker in Pawtucket, Rhode Island) and also worked as executive vice president of Bassett Boat Co. in Springfield. He knew the owners of Excel and ended up taking over the business in 1997. “I wanted to have my own Justin Garcia attaches the unit badge and labels on the Xlerator business,” Gagnon said. Gagnon’s wife Nancy is the Excel Dryer at the Excel plant in East Longmeadow. company’s senior vice presi(DAVE ROBACK PHOTO) dent, and his son, William, is for research and developpand,” Gagnon said, adding the company’s vice president ment. it hired about a dozen more of marketing and sales. He Another expansion project people in the last year, and worked with them to create is planned for spring which have approximately 50 the Xlerator in 2001. will feature 4,500-squareemployees. Last year, Excel Today, they offer the origifeet of office space, and brought on a new director of nal Xlerator that dries hands 3,600-square-feet of wareglobal sales and new director in 8 seconds, the Xlerator-eco house space along with an of marketing. that dries hands in 10 seconds expanded and redesigned The company, which sells without heat and uses 500 break room area, including its products through approx- watts of energy, the ThinAir employee restrooms. imately 4,500 wholesale hand dryer that meets ADA “We did it in not the best distributors, has not been im- compliance standards and of times, but we continue to mune to supply chain woes. dries hands in 14 seconds, hire and continue to ex“We are experiencing the and the Xlerator-sync, which

front lines. It comes complete with a HEPA filtration system, removing 99.999% of viruses from the airstream. The HEPA filter is something Gagnon said they had available all along, adding it was used mostly in food service settings. It has been an optional upgrade, and recently Target Corp., through a major national distributor, purchased 1,800 units with the filters. Meanwhile, they are planning for the next generation of Xlerator in 2023. Gagnon said they are always looking to improve products and develop new ones. “On a pandemic-related note, we do really consider ourselves fortunate,” Gagnon said. “We’ve had no layoffs and that’s a positive outcome in a difficult period for us. And we continue to expand.”

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Complaints about hand dryers, Gagnon said, were always the same: how long they take to dry hands, so long that many people just wipe their hands on their clothes or leave restrooms with their hands still wet. That’s how Gagnon got the idea for Excel Dryer Inc.’s Xlerator line. He wanted a hand dryer that could do the job fast, in 10 to 15 seconds, versus the usual 30 to 45 seconds or more. That was in 2001. Today, the company is a leader in the industry, according to Gagnon. The hand dryers are manufactured in East Longmeadow at the family-run company with the majority of parts domestically-sourced. The touchless dryers can be found throughout the world, from restrooms in Grand Central Station in New York City, Buffalo Wild Wings franchises and Heathrow Airport in London to sites closer to home, such as MGM Springfield, Fenway Park, Gillette Stadium and Longmeadow High School. Gagnon, who describes himself as a “big Patriots fan,” enjoys going to the games and seeing his products. He added that he gets “five calls a week” from people who spot the dryers somewhere. Xlerator also can be found at Wembley Stadium in London and the Istanbul Airport in Turkey. “The Xlerator was a great show-and-tell product,” Gagnon said. “We would do 25 trade shows a year in the early days.” People would tell him how much they couldn’t stand hand dryers, and he would enjoy seeing “the transformation the minute they stuck their hands under it,” Gagnon recalled. “I do think the resistance to the original hand dryers has been minimized by the fact that we have a hand dryer that

works.” The pandemic put a damper on the business, even though Excel did not shut down as it was deemed an essential manufacturer. The downturn was partly due to mixed messages the public was hearing about hand dryers, and their safety. Gagnon said his company worked with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on updating guidelines to be more clear on promoting hand dryer use. The CDC recommends thorough hand drying, as germs spread more easily when wet. “The CDC agreed and updated their guidance, and it certainly changed the atmosphere,” Gagnon said. Gagnon said the private company is back on track and is off “to an excellent start” for 2022. It is projecting a 10% business increase. From 2020 to 2021, sales dropped 8%. With hand dryers only in 10% of public restrooms, Gagnon said there is room for growth in the market. An advantage that hand dryers have is the elimination of paper waste and the need to have someone restock that paper. It’s a much neater product, he noted. The company’s tagline is “time to throw in the towel.” The company has been steadily growing since 2006, when it completed a 10,000-square-foot warehouse addition. In 2010, it added another 2,000-squarefeet of warehouse space, 1,850-square-feet of office space and 3,600-square-feet

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K13

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K14 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

“The Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center has assisted us with everything from recipe development, packaging and production. Being new to the food production business, there was a learning curve, and (the food processing center) was there to guide and support us.” LORRAINE M. JONES, SMOKEY DIVAS BARBECUE SAUCE

Above are some of the items processed at the Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center in Greenfield. Peter Freisem, at left, a production worker, gives a tour of the center. The facility is marking its 20th anniversary. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTOS)

AGRICULTURE

From farm to table Regional processing center helps entrepreneurs grow products

W By CORI URBAN

Special to The Republican

hen the owners of Smokey Divas in Pittsfield decided to manufacture and sell their signature barbecue sauce under the brand name 92nd Sauce, they knew they needed some help. “Honestly, we did not even know how to even get started,” said Lorraine M. Jones. They got the help they needed from the Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center in Greenfield.

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Kent Koeninger and Susan Peckitt look at some of the products available during the 20th anniversary celebration of the Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center in Greenfield in October. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

Since it opened, more than 400 businesses have produced, shipped or used storage space in the center including Real Pickles, Hillside Pizza, Makomas juices, Appalachian Naturals, Chubby’s Sauces and Artisan Beverage Cooperative. Currently the center has 50 clients and has eight full-time employees. During the busy harvest season, it employs several part-time staff including persons in the reentry program of Hampshire County House of Correction. The team helps food businesses navigate the many steps of bringing a food product to market, including recipe development, packaging, food safety considerations, regulatory compliance and general business planning. “We have a team of technical assistance providers that work with businesses on various aspects of their busi-

ness plans, including competitive analyses, sales strategy, cost analysis, marketing and more,” Minifie said. State Sen. Sen. Jo Comerford, D-Northampton, presented the Western Massachusetts Food Processing Center an award as Manufacturer of the Year for 2021 in the Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester Senate district. “The entire team at the Western Mass. Food Processing Center is so honored to receive this award,” Minifie said. The center’s mission is to promote economic development through entrepreneurship, provide opportunities for sustaining local agriculture and promote best practices for food producers. Minifie’s hope for the center in 2022 is that it can streamline its bottling line capabilities to reduce production costs

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The center, marking its 20th year, is a shared-use facility that offers rental and co-packing services for new and growing food businesses, including those that produce dressings, beverages and spreads. It also has its own line of individually quick-frozen local produce. “The Western Mass. Food Processing Center has assisted us with everything from recipe development, packaging and production,” Jones said. Currently, 92nd Sauce — which comes in mild, medium and hot varieties — is being produced out of the Wells Street facility in Greenfield. “Being new to the food production business, there was a learning curve, and (the food processing center) was there to guide and support us,” Jones said. The center opened in 2001 to support new and growing food businesses. It offers rental manufacturing space and co-packing services to regional food businesses and works with the region’s farms to make products, like jams, sauces, pickles and purees. Employees provide one-onone counseling and technical assistance in such areas as business planning, product development and regulatory compliance. “We have received unwavering support from our community, statewide and regional partners since the food processing center’s inception,” said Kate R. Minifie, food business manager for the processing center at the Franklin County Community Development Corp. “This support, coupled with contributions from individuals and foundations in our community, allows us to offer free technical assistance to a wide variety of businesses and helps subsidize prototyping and product development services for moderate- and low-income entrepreneurs.” The community development corporation built the facility in 2001, and it’s since grown to be a 5,000-squarefoot facility with commercial equipment.

for clients, develop several more value-added recipes and support more small farms that represent diverse business owners in the region and investigate and address barriers to entry for BIPOC entrepreneurs in its coverage area and continue to develop an organizational approach that best supports clients as they navigate the path from concept to launch. For more information about the food processing center, 324 Wells St., Greenfield, call 413- Arianie Rodriguez, left, and Kate Minifie, of the Western Massa774-7204 or visit the website, chusetts Food Processing Center, attend the October anniverfccdc.org. sary event. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K15

Amidst the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 400 Westfield State students engaged in field experience opportunities during the 2020–2021 academic year that led to over 115,000 hours of service. na Community Kitchen in Northampton. Manna’s recently created locker program helps the unhoused population by providing a safe place to secure their personal belongings for free. Not only did the students create an extensive and impactful public relations plan, they also researched, set goals, objecHere, from left, Kate Cardoso, president of the Board of Directives, strategies and tactics tors of Manna Community Kitchen, and Westfield State Uniand met with their client. versity communication students Brooke Kiger, Eddie Payzant, They implemented the plan Johemy Vilchez, Adam Gage, and Samantha Gaskin, at the with great success. Due to Holyoke Mall. Westfield State students were on hand to help their dedication, the students support the locker program at Manna. (SUBMITTED PHOTO) exceeded their goals and deof the COVID-19 pandemic, lighted their client. I offer my more than 400 Westfield warmest congratulations to State students engaged in all of the students in the class, CONTINUES FROM PAGE K1 field experience opportunities including professor Boniface. one of the largest employers during the 2020–2021 acain this region, the buyer of demic year that led to over goods and services and the 115,000 hours of service. supplier of trained workers to These students supported industries. The public ought our schools, businesses, and to know more about what non-profit organizations we do beyond educating the through internships, pracfuture workforce at an afford- tica, and service programs. able cost. They helped to make a real It’s impressive that during impact, in their unique way, the beginnings of the on our regional economy COVID-19 pandemic, the through a variety of projects university spent $16 million that help our communities. in fiscal 2021 for goods and Due to the pandemic, I services provided by primarily recognize the strength and local companies. Seventy-two resilience of our dedicated, percent of Westfield State’s hard-working, and talented purchasing dollars are spent faculty, staff, and students within the area’s Knowledge who worked diligently to Corridor, anchored by Spring- adjust to remote-learning field, as well as Hartford and experiences and worked with New Haven to the south in employer partners. Our acaConnecticut. demic departments reached It’s also worth noting that out to employer and commuthe majority of Westfield nity partners to ensure that State’s approximately 5,000 students were able to particundergraduate, graduate ipate in experiential learnand continuing education ing. Despite the reduction students hail from Western in host internship sites, we Massachusetts. Eighty-four overcame these challenges to percent of the Westfield State identify alternate placements Class of 2019 who particito ensure a quality experipated in a university career ence for students seeking center survey chose to remain professional growth in their in Massachusetts to work. Of respective fields. the Class of 2019 members One such example of how reporting, 88% are working Westfield State’s students put full-time jobs or are in gradu- into real-world practice what ate school. they learned in the classroom Beyond these aforemencame this past semester, in tioned facts, though, I also adjunct communications like to share that our students professor Suzanne Boniface’s contribute what they have Advanced Public Relations learned in our classrooms course. Each semester, she to local employers through and her students create internship and experiential and launch a social media learning programs. Westfield campaign that raises awareState actively encourages its ness and funding for a local students to participate in a non-profit organization. variety of service-learning This past semester, the initiatives. class chose to support the Amidst the uncertainties locker program at Man-

Thompson

Koby Gardner-Levine, district representative for U.S. Rep. James P. McGovern, D-Worcester, came to Westfield State in the fall to congratulate the students and professor Boniface for raising over $2,100 for Manna, which serves the poor and homeless in McGovern’s district. (That amount is the highest an Advanced Public Relations class has raised via its social media campaigns. Altogether the campaigns run by this course have raised over $13,000 collectively.) “In our area, we’re fortunate enough to have a number of incredible organizations like Manna that are committed to

helping those in need, as well as schools that are connected to their communities, like Westfield State,” said Gardner-Levine. “Both are serving as true leaders in the fight against food insecurity. This class is a great example of that leadership.” Working alongside experienced professionals, Westfield State students apply classroom learning while gaining invaluable practical experience related to their interests and field of study. These field experiences provide opportunities for networking, establishing valuable contacts, developing stronger technological skills,

and exploring potential career paths. Also, students develop confidence, learn to interact professionally, identify personal and professional strengths, and explore and test career interests. Employers benefit from these collaborations as well. Each one of these experiences allows our students to professionally thrive and make a difference in our local economy. I wish to thank our community partners for hosting and helping our students succeed. Linda Thompson is president of Westfield State University. To learn more about the university, go online to westfield.ma.edu.

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position as a world-class profile extrusion technology resource. As its plastics manufacturing capabilities continue to expand, the company is increasingly able to offer integrated solutions for its clients, allowing for customized service and empowering customers to grow their businesses. Headquartered in East Longmeadow, Toner Plastics has about 200 employees. “At Toner Plastics we strongly believe that all employees are involved with customer satisfaction, educating

our employees on the end use of the products we are making and at times getting customers involved with our front-line workers makes an impact in building a company

supply-chain issues during the pandemic, “our strong relationships with our suppliers has enabled us navigate these disruptions,” he said. “When times are tough you learn

“We do what it takes to keep customers from shutting down, and customers appreciate that we care.” with purpose,” LaBrec said. Though like other companies, Toner Plastics has had

how strong your relationships are, and the pandemic is one of those times. We do what it

takes to keep customers from shutting down, and customers appreciate that we care.” Toner Plastics is a one-stop plastic fabrication shop with in house tool building capabilities. “We serve startups to Fortune 500 companies because of our broad experience and integrity to deliver what customers demand, regardless of their size,” LaBrec said. For more information, call 800-723-1792 or go to tonerplastics.com 3161810-01

C. LaBrec, Toner Plastics director of sales and marWhile some molders have keting. “It is this culture that not been able to keep up with has allowed us to meet and customer demand during the exceed the needs of current ongoing pandemic, Toner and new customers.” Plastics has helped customers Founded in 1989, Toner stay in business by quickly Plastics offers full-service taking their molds into Toner injection mold making, operations and delivering injection molding, extrusion, finished products. tooling and mold transfer and “As Toner is a critical toll manufacturing. supplier, keeping our doors Through organic growth open was a necessity from the and multiple acquisitions, it beginning, and our culture has become an accomplished of flexibility and attention to tooling design and injection customer needs proved espe- molding operation while cially important,” said Brian enhancing its leadership SPECIAL TO THE REPUBLICAN

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K16 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Gail Kaufman, left, and Lois Bass, right, both early UWW staff members, are pictured in the early 1970s. (UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS PHOTOS)

UMass CONTINUES FROM PAGE K12

to offer students whatever traditional, online or blended programs work for the individual, rather than reflecting the needs — and limits — of the institution. “What’s changed is the ability to engage people in all stages of life. The world is changing so fast and people need the chance to gain new credentials and keep learning,” he said. This pathway to lifelong learning speaks to UWW’s mission “to serve all nontraditional students, age 16 to 96,” Wells said, and not offer simply a pathway to adult degree completion, though he says that mission has also been served admirably. “We are serving a much more diversified student population, not just the adult population anymore. On campus or online, we are accessible and flexible,” said Melanie DeSilva, director of marketing, communications and recruitment. UWW opened with a small office on campus. Almost instantly, it was inundated with former students seeking to finish degree work that in many cases had been interrupted years early. In the beginning, students attended on-campus classes. When that wasn’t possible, UMass professors taught in workplaces, prisons and in the community. In the 1990s, UMass UWW professors brought their own

computers to community sites so that those without computer access could finish assignments. Wells said the COVID-19 pandemic brought the essential value of flexible learning into full view. “We were headed this way anyway, but the pandemic accelerated it,” he said. “For us, it was business as usual, with the exception of offering more student support during the pandemic,” DeSilva said. “There was no disruption, because we were already used to delivering education this way.” According to Wells, many students spend their first year or two as traditional students, but find their lives changing before completing the fouryear cycle. He said that once the pandemic arrived in 2020, many students went to UWW as a way to complete degree work on time. Wells said the flexible approach offers several advantages. He cited college athletes, who spend much of their in-season time training, competing and traveling and might find it difficult to main-

Ruth Hook, beloved staff member and coordinator of the Amherst UWW office, rides her bicycle to graduation, which she did every year, sometime in the 1980s. (UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS PHOTO)

tain a traditional schedule with inflexible classroom schedules. UWW students can earn up to 30 credits for life experiences. Malcolm said that gave her decades of experience in corporate banking, management, marketing, sales, human resources and staff development tangible value. As online learning and virtual platforms have evolved, so has the nature of the student, according to Jacqueline Castledine, department chair and senior lecturer for UWW. “I’ve been here 13 years, and one change I’ve noticed is that students, even adult students, are much more savvy with technology,” Castledine said. “When I began, we’d have to

tell students (directions such as), click a button on the side of the computer to start it. Students now are much more prepared to do online.” The UMass Amherst Center in Springfield, located in Tower Square, is a critical component of the program. “UWW has a presence in Springfield, and it has for a long, long time. I think that makes us different,” Castledine said. “Immersive learning is big these days, and we have what we call residencies, where students come in for a weekend at our center in Springfield. They’ve come from as far as Florida and California.” A different style of learning

requires a different style of instruction. That, too, became evident in 2020. “What we found during the pandemic was that once many professors were thrust into (online education), they liked it. Flexibility cuts both ways,” Wells said. Stack said the old-time perception of online students learning in isolation is patently false. She says interactivity with other students is not only encouraged, but required. “A virtual discussion board is part of every class,” she said. One component required each student to engage with two others, she explained. Stack said that created a wider scope of cooperative

learning than is found in many traditional classrooms, where some students are timid and the same handful of students tend to dominate class participation. Stack said UWW’s value was not just that it allowed her to complete work for her degree, but how. “UWW is research-heavy, and all that reading and writing prepared me for graduate work. I learned more in one year at UWW than I did in three years as a traditional student,” she said. “It’s so unique. It’s amazing what we learn there,” Malcolm said. “Do I think I would have finished as a traditional student? Not one bit.”

“Immersive learning is big these days, and we have what we call residencies, where students come in for a weekend at our center in Springfield. They’ve come from as far as Florida and California.” JACQUELINE CASTLEDINE, DEPARTMENT CHAIR AND SENIOR LECTURER FOR UNIVERSITY WITHOUT WALLS

Vocational CONTINUES FROM PAGE K4

Chicopee Comprehensive High School seniors Anabella Rose, left, and Joshua O’Brien, both 17, are enrolled in the drafting and information and support services technology programs, respectively. (CHICOPEE COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL PHOTO)

“The beauty of these programs is that the students are poised for many opportunities.” CARL INGRAM, CHICOPEE COMPREHENSIVE HIGH SCHOOL

TV and video; early education; and cosmetology. For students interested in manufacturing jobs, Chicopee also offers an OSHA -10 certification course. When they get a certification of completion in the course, students are well-versed on workplace safety requirements. “The certification gives potential employers confidence that they know what they are doing,” Ingram said. In addition, the school runs a free emergency medical technician academy where students can obtain certification to become emergency medical technicians. Chi-

copee High’s Health Science Academy offers students a chance for dual enrollment at Holyoke Community College where they can work in a health simulation laboratory. Such experience prepares graduates for enrollment in nursing schools. “The beauty of these programs is that the students are poised for many opportunities,” Ingram said. The shutdown when the pandemic hit complicated instruction for teachers and students alike, according to Ingram. “The pandemic was rough. There were so many social and emotional issues we had to deal with,” he said. While education was necessarily remote, the focus became the academic side of the equation rather than hands-on experiences, he said. It did allow both teachers and students to stretch themselves and learn new skills, Ingram added. For example, teachers learned how to produce how-to videos. “We adapted with Zoom meetings, laptops and Google meet-ups.” Now that students are back in the classroom, Ingram said things are looking up, adding, “These kids are resilient.”

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the 21st century offers students what he calls “stackable and marketable skills,” making them ready for a job right after high school — or position them to move on to college with a strong background in a field of their choice. Among Chicopee Comp students with an eye on college are seniors Anabella Rose and Joshua O’Brien, both 17. Rose is enrolled in the drafting program at Chicopee Comp where she is the only girl. She said she chose the discipline because “I love math and science, and I’m interested in art and design. Drafting combines the two.” As her senior year draws to a close, she is applying to colleges where she plans to major in mechanical engineering. It’s a field for which she’s well prepared thanks to the background she has gained in the drafting program. O’Brien, who is studying information and support services technology, was sold on attending Chicopee Comp when he attended an open house for students considering which of the city’s high schools to attend. “The minute I walked in I knew I want to be a part of this,” he said. He’s also preparing applications to a college that will allow him to get a job in IT. Both Chicopee Comp and Chicopee High offer many vocational options for students, Ingram said. At Comp, students can enroll in these programs: advanced manufacturing; automotive; carpentry; horticulture; design and visual communications; drafting; electricity; information support services and networking; and metal fabrication and joining. At Chicopee High programs include: business; criminal justice, hospital; graphic arts;

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K17

“For many institutions, the pivot to remote learning was very difficult, but for us, the heavy lifting had already been done and the infrastructure was in place.” SANDRA J. DORAN, PRESIDENT, BAY PATH UNIVERSITY

Bay Path CONTINUES FROM PAGE K1

April will come nearly two years after she took office, the university is formulating a new strategy for the 2020s and beyond. It will update Leary’s Vision 2001 program, keeping the most relevant aspects while adding new strategies and focus points. But the anniversary will also be a recognition of a past that, for most of its entire first century, left many people outside of the Bay Path world with either misconceptions, vague conceptions or no conceptions at all. Begun as a co-educational school in Springfield in 1897, Bay Path was known by a handful of names, including secretarial school and junior college, and appreciated for decades for its affordable, accessible education — but just as easily underrated or overlooked. After America’s male population went to fight in World War II, Bay Path pivoted to become an all-women’s college. It was a two-year college until 1988. By then, Bay Path was serving a women’s population no longer limited to teaching, nursing or secretarial work, as it had been been before World War II — yet it was still receiving phone calls for secretaries, Leary said. At the time of Leary’s retirement, Bay Path’s student population had grown from 450 to 3,400. On Feb. 27, 2020, Doran was introduced as her successor at a festive, heavily attended meet-and-greet celebration. Two weeks later, the coronavirus pandemic changed the world — and Bay Path, before Doran could even officially begin her duties. “When I was first appointed, Carol and I decided to talk on a regular basis on how the pandemic would affect us,” Doran recalled. “For many institutions, the pivot to remote learning was very difficult, but for us, the heavy lifting had already been done and the infrastructure was in place. “With the building blocks done and already a very robust level of remote learning, it was a smooth transition. The spirit of innovation is the great legacy of Carol Leary.” Leary knows the value of giving first-generation college students a chance, because she was one of them. “My parents didn’t even graduate from high school, but they believed in education. When I arrived in 1994, the most important question we asked ourselves was how we could best serve our students with a wom-

Conference, which will mark its 25th year on April 1 at the MassMutual Center. The conference, which featured former U.S. Labor and Transportation Secretary Elizabeth Dole as its first keynote speaker in 1996, put the spotlight on not just education of women, but how to prepare and serve them in a lifelong cycle. Leary thinks it also established Bay Path as not just a quality school but a leader in its field. The reputation began to spread, albeit slowly. Doran said that as recently as 2019, when she asked her staff at Salem Academy and College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to research schools with the most progressive approaches to online learning, they came back with Bay Path, a school she knew practically nothing about. For Nikki Burnett, Bay Path’s history is linked to a personal journey the 2018 graduate is eager to share. “I will always affirm Bay Path as an Bay Path College president Carol Leary has a discussion with musician and actor Queen Latifah at the college’s integral part of my foundation. I had a 2013 Women’s Leadership Conference at the MassMutual Center in Springfield. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) very jagged journey to sit where I am today,” said Burnett, the executive en’s education for the 21st century,” director of Educare Springfield. she said. “I came to BPU after many years of Doran and Leary say that’s still attempting to juggle family respontrue at a school that accepts men for sibilities, tragedies and trying to its graduate programs but otherwise convince myself that it was time for remains a women’s institution. me to return to school. I did just that In the 1990s, Leary asked emin 2012 (but) in 2013, my best friend, ployers what they sought in the new Jo Ann, was very ill (with cancer).” workforce. Leadership and technolBy 2014, Burnett’s “best cheerogy skills were atop the list, so from leader,” as she called her friend, 1997 to 1999 the school established was in hospice in North Carolina. its first information technology Overwhelmed by trying to help while program. continuing online classes, Burnett As a rule, she deflects credit for Bay decided to withdraw from school. Path’s remarkable growth, but others “I felt entirely supported by the point to her. college. I was extended grace and Bay Path Junior College dancers rehearse in 1989. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN “Carol Leary was the whole catalyst space to do what was most important FILE PHOTO) behind change,” said 1967 gradufor me,” Burnett said. ate Charlene Mazur, who, in 2001, “I came from Yarmouth, Maine, a Before Bay Path had the East LongHer friend died in 2014. Mindful became the first Bay Path alumna small town with a high school gradmeadow campus it has now, it was of her encouragement to “promise — and the first woman — to chair the uating class of less than 50. To me, really just 588 Longmeadow St.,” to be brilliant,” Burnett returned school’s board of trustees. Longmeadow seemed like a huge Whalen recalled. to Bay Path in 2016 and graduated Bay Path’s American Women’s urban place,” said Mazur, chuckling One Bay Path innovation was the two years later. With guidance from College was the first all-women, at the memory. “one-day student campus,” where Sat- faculty member Mohammed Sattar, all-online accredited bachelor’s de“The campus seemed really urday classes were offered to students Burnett earned a master’s degree in gree program in the country. Doran comfortable. From Bay Path, I went whose lives did not fit traditional col- leadership and negotiation last May and Leary agree that by pioneering to Boston University, where I was lege schedules. Online education was and expects to complete a doctorate remote learning, Bay Path gained an a classmate of Carol Leary, though also beginning to flourish, she said. of education in 2024. inside track on grant applications, an I didn’t know her. There’s no way “I chose on-campus learning, To Leary, such stories explain what advantage that still exists today. I could have gone from Yarmouth but online was wonderful. We also Bay Path has been about for 125 As for Bay Path’s students, Mazur to BU in 1965, and I went on to the did start to see a busier campus on years. She said when the coronavirus marvels at the diversity on campus University of Massachusetts, where I Saturdays with the one-day program, pandemic took hold, her husband today. got my degree in biostatistics.” and we noticed the higher traffic,” reminded her that Bay Path had “When I was there, Bay Path was an “There’s something about the Bay Whalen said. survived two world wars and the almost all-white, typical middle-toPath connection that is heartwarming Whalen went on to become presGreat Depression, and would emerge upper-class school. It had a reputaand real,” said Courtney Whalen, ident of the Alumni Association from this challenge still pointed to tion of being about two steps from who earned her bachelor’s degree Council, where she is still an emeritus the future. being a finishing school,” she said in 2000 and her master’s degree in member. “I never forgot that. We’ve tried to Mazur served as trustees chair until 2010. Leary is especially proud of hiring emphasize the positive,” she said. “In 2004 and is still an emeritus mem“I came from Salisbury, ConnectiWilliam L. Sipple as Bay Path’s first the lowest of times, you are called ber of the board. She doesn’t think cut, and aside from the fine faculty provost. She thinks another turning upon to do your greatest work. That’s the finishing-school reputation was and students, it was a nice campus point for Bay Path’s expanding footalways been a part of Bay Path’s deserved, but it was commonly held. nestled in a beautiful little town. print was the Women’s Leadership DNA, and still is.”

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | K19

“We still educate a lot of first-generation college students who don’t have family they can talk to about college.” CHRISTINA ROYAL, HCC PRESIDENT

Holyoke Community College president Christina Royal congratulates graduates of the Freight Farms Hydroponic Growing apprenticeship program at the HCC MGM Culinary Arts Institute in 2019. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

HCC

for all categories of racial, ethnic, economic and sexual identities. Adult learners, CONTINUES FROM PAGE K10 and those with unique job or “Among many achievefamily demands, are similarments, he started the ly welcomed, she said. college’s foundation from Of the current HCC popuscratch, and it’s still helping lation, Royal said 12% have students today.” documented disabilities. The Kane was the first of three door is kept open for their generations of his family success as well, she said. to use Holyoke CommuniWhen the COVID-19 ty College (still known as pandemic prompted campus Holyoke Junior College in his closings in March 2020, HCC day) as launch points to four- was well-positioned because year colleges. Royal said that Royal had advocated flexible transfer path is one of many learning platforms for 20 options the college affords years. She said in-person today. education remains important “Community colleges edu- but that online options will cate the entry-level job force. remain accessible, up to date They have been gaining and of high quality, long after recognition and respect for the pandemic has ended. their success with preparedProviding student services ness and as a key engine in is crucial, she said. workforce development,” “We still educate a lot of she said. first-generation college stuRoyal’s tenure has been dents who don’t have family marked by innovation. She they can talk to about colsays the college’s mission lege,” said Royal, who added is to provide opportunity the school is working to meet

William F. Messner, third president of Holyoke Community College, greets students from Morgan Elementary School during a visit to the college’s Bartley Center for Athletics & Recreation in 2014. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

the differing needs within its student population. Adult students might be more interested in knowing how to navigate the worlds of investment or purchasing, she said, while younger learners might emphasize issues of social justice. She also said the traditional step-by-step growth path from high school to college, and then to the workforce, is giving way to more “intersectionality,” and overlapping of steps — and that HCC must meet those changing needs. “The advantages of access and affordability have been drilled into people’s minds, and we offer that but much more,” Royal said. “Many students ask themselves, is college even possible? What we offer is that anything is possible. If your desire is to attend a prestigious four-year school, you can start here and finish anywhere — anywhere.”

At left,top, Holyoke Community College president David M. Bartley, left, talks with University of Massachusetts president William M. Bulger, Francis E. Kane and attorney Maurice R. Ferriter at a Valley Press Club event at HCC in 2001. Kane, a former trustee and current member of the community college’s foundation, calls Bartley “the Red Auerbach of HCC.” At left, below, the graduating Class of 1954 at Holyoke Junior College, the predecessor of Holyoke Community College. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTOS)

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Think you can beat the clock? Do you trust your GPS or do you always assume you can get there just a little bit faster? Arriving to a birthday party a few minutes late isn’t usually a big deal, but overestimating your control as an investor can potentially lead to serious problems for you and your finances. Many of us are guilty of overconfidence at one point or another. Say you check directions and see that it will take 17 minutes to get to your destination and think, “Okay, great. I can make it in 15.” Sound familiar? We all have subconscious biases, but that doesn’t mean they need to get in the way of your financial

a financial advisor, I can help you set up guardrails against your own biases and give Think you success. can Asbeat the clock?

you the tools and education you need to manage your hard-earned wealth with confidence. Do you trust your GPS or do you always assume you can get there just a little bit faster? Arriving to a birthday party a few minutes late isn’t

Think you can beat the clock?

usually a big deal, but overestimating control personalized as an investor can potentially lead toI serious problems for you and your resource finances. In addition toyour providing financial guidance, also serve as a knowledgeable Many of us are guilty ofand overconfidence at one point or Say you checkthem directions andon seetrack that itfor willtheir takelong-term 17 minutes goals. to get to your accountability partner foranother. my clients, helping to stay

Do you trust your GPS or do you always assume you can get there just a little bit faster? Arriving to

destination and think, “Okay, great. I can make it in 15.” Sound familiar? can Ibut help you reach yours? a subconscious birthday How party a few minutes isn’t a big deal, overestimating your an I can We all have biases, that doesn’tlate mean theyusually need to get in the waybut of your financial success. As acontrol financialas advisor,

investor can potentially leadbiases to serious problems forand youeducation and your finances. help you set up guardrails against your own and give you the tools you need to manage your hard-earned wealth with confidence.

Many of us are guilty of overconfidence at one point or another. Say you check directions and see

In addition to providing personalized financial guidance, I also serve as a knowledgeable resource and accountability partner for my

that it will take 17 minutes to get to your destination and think, “Okay, great. I can make it in 15.”

clients, helping them to stay on track for their long-term goals. How can I Sound help youfamiliar? reach yours?

We all have subconscious biases, but that doesn’t mean they need to get in the way of your financial success. As a financial advisor, I can help you set up guardrails against your own biases and give you the tools and education you need to manage your hard-earned wealth with confidence. In addition to providing personalized financial guidance, I also serve as a knowledgeable resource

believethem in the power of markets to fix goals. and accountability partner for my clients,Ihelping to stay on track for their long-term problems and turn them into opportunities through constant innovation and visionary thinking.

How can I help you reach yours?

We have seen the pandemic test our community like never before, but I have faith in Springfield’s resiliency in 2022 and beyond. Believe in the future!

Mark W Teed, WMS, CRPC® Senior Vice President, Investments 1500 Main Street, Suite 1700 // Springfield, MA 01115 413.372.6610 // teedcapitalmanagement.com

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In tomorrow’s OUTLOOK BUSINESS MONDAY section: Western Massachusetts chambers look ahead to 2022

Outlook 2022 L

| SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

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W MARk KEROACk

E ALL FIND IT HARD TO LOOK FAR into the future during a crisis, but I believe that 2022 will be a year of hope and healing. We know that all pandemics wind down, and this one will do so, too, accelerated in part by the highly contagious omicron variant that has circulated in

our community. Sooner rather than later everyone will be exposed to the COVID-19 spike protein, either through vaccination or infection. Serious infections caused by the virus will become rarer, since nearly all in our community will have some level of immunity. Periodic booster shots every few years will become routine, just as they are

with influenza. For these reasons, I firmly believe that early in 2022, COVID-19 will stop disrupting our lives. We will stop being afraid and begin to move forward. Baystate Health will adapt to a new world in which COVID-19 will remain a low-level threat, a world SEE KEROACK, PAGE L2

“I ONLY WANT TO GET BIGGER. BUT YOU HAVE TO GROW IN STEPS, OTHERWISE YOU CAN OUTGROW YOURSELF AND YOU CAN HURT YOURSELF IF YOU GET TOO BIG TOO QUICK.” DERRICK TURNBULL, AUTUMN MIST FARM, AGAWAM

AGRICULTURE

Autumn Mist Farm keeps beef fresh, local

ChARLES D’AmOUR

Big Y makes trust key to business

Big Y partnership helped save farm amid pandemic

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

hen 40-yearold Derrick Turnbull walks out the front door of his home in Agawam he steps into the office he’s always dreamed of having: the 100-acre Autumn Mist Farm awash in sun or rain, depending on the vagaries of the New England weather.

“This isn’t a job. It’s a lifestyle and a lot of work,” he says. Turnbull owns and operates the family farm with his fiancé, their two daughters, and his parents. He owns 100 acres of land and 130 cows, each giving birth to one calf per year. He leases another 500 acres and purchases several hundred calves which he raises, has processed and sells their meat. “We’re a small family-run operation. We raise all-natural beef cattle with no hormones, antibiotics or steroids in our animals,”

SEE FARM, PAGE L17

Autumn Turnbull, 5, is greeted by Curly during a morning feeding at Autumn Mist Farm at 300 North West St. in Agawam. The cattle farm is named in her honor. Inset, Derrick Turnbull, owner of Autumn Mist Farm, and his fiancée Tracy Allen, run the family-owned 100-acre farm. His herd includes some 130 cows, each giving birth to one calf per year. He leases another 500 acres and purchases several hundred calves which he raises, has processed and sells their meat. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

RUST IS FOUNDAtional and underpins any successful business. As a family market and company, we are keenly aware that trust is the cornerstone for connecting with our customers, our employees and our farmers and suppliers. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, I have continued to reflect on the importance of “trust” in our business and in our community. For over 86 years, our company has endeavored to continue the legacy established by our founders, my father Gerry and my uncle Paul that began when they opened their tiny 850-squarefoot neighborhood market in the village of Willimansett in Chicopee. Striving to offer the best value and the finest quality and freshness for their customers, they understood that caring and trust were integral in all their dealings and engagements. As I traveled our stores during the height of the pandemic, I was struck by two things. First and foremost was the caring and resilience of our 12,000 employees. Their heroic efforts SEE D'AMOUR, PAGE L17

RETAIL

Thornes, an ‘experience unlike any other mall’ Patrons shop in ACME Surplus store at Thornes Marketplace on Main Street in Northampton. The mall was created more than 40 years ago in what was once McCallum's department store. (HOANG 'LEON' NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

By JANICE BEETLE

bottom line but the safety and protection of 25 shop owners, The three co-owners of Thornes their employees, and customers, all of them the heart of the Marketplace will never forget Thornes brand. The center that the morning of March 14, 2020. began in 1874 as McCallum’s Dry Jody Doele, Rich Madowitz and Goods survived the pandemic Russell Jopson made the painful solely because of that altruistic and unprecedented decision to close the iconic mall in downtown mindset. Thornes staff continued to reNorthampton in response to the ceive full pay throughout the closurge of COVID-19 cases. In the days following, area businesspeo- sure and later received bonuses to ple asked them, “What were you recognize the perils of working in retail in a pandemic. From April thinking?” SEE THORNES, PAGE L12 The answer was not about the Special to The Republican

Big Y co-founder Gerald E. D’Amour, left, with co-worker Roland Moreau at the original Y Cash Market in Chicopee. (BIG Y PHOTO)

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“It is our great hope that these students will remain here to practice at Baystate or elsewhere in the Pioneer Valley. In today’s environment where workforce is an issue in all industries, we are creating our own health care workforce to address the shortage.”

Dr. Sarah Perez McAdoo, Baystate Health’s director of health equity education and practice, is responsible for creating many community connections for the Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track for medical students at the Baystate campus of the UMass Chan Medical School. Here, she stands near the Baystate Health Wellness on Wheels bus, currently in use at Baystate Franklin Medical Center. (DON TREEGER /

DR. KEVIN HINCHEY, CHIEF EDUCATION OFFICER, BAYSTATE HEALTH

THE REPUBLICAN)

HEALTH

Learning to heal at home in WMass PURCH effort built by, for region

By KEITH O’CONNOR

Special to The Republican

hen Nathan Taber began searching for medical schools to attend, he was looking for a specific experience — incorporating public health into his medical education — beyond learning the science of medicine. That led him to UMass Chan Medical School and the Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track at the Baystate Health campus in Springfield. Five years ago the groundbreaking PURCH curriculum was introduced, providing students with many opportunities to engage with, and advocate for, underserved communities. The one-of-a-kind program trains the next generation of medical students to think more broadly about social determinants of health, causes of health disparities, disease prevention and wellness, noted Dr. Kevin Hinchey, senior associate dean of education and professor at Baystate. PURCH is a program built by and for the communities served by Baystate Health. Students collaborate with community organizations throughout their four years of schooling in Western Massachusetts. “The curriculum is co-designed by community members and PURCH leaders and has resulted in a medical education program that emphasizes listening, humility, advocacy, relationship-building,

and competence,” said Hinchey, who also serves as chief education officer at Baystate Health. One of the many community organizations where PURCH students have been making a difference for several years is the Quaboag Connector Transportation Initiative based at the Quaboag Valley Community Development Corp. in Ware. “I have long been interested in the role transportation plays for the general well-being of a community,” said Taber. That interest led him to select the Ware initiative for the two-week Population and Community Health Clerkship required in his second year. During clerkships, students meet with members of their host organization to better understand their challenges, to learn how to work on interprofessional teams, learn the importance of advocacy, and complete a service project addressing a community need — in the case of the connector,

it was barriers to transportation for people in that community. “They came to us with a wealth of academic skills and talents and sat at the table with us to discuss ideas around advocacy and how to improve transportation in our area,” said Sheila Cuddy, executive director of the community development corporation. Taber’s positive experience with the Connector Initiative led him to return for a two-month summer internship where he conducted further research on viable transportation options such as ride sharing, a van that would have a fixed-route or be available on demand, and various affordable software to be used for scheduling. “Nate’s work with us developing a sustainable model for rural transportation was recognized at the Department of Transportation Innovative Series. He was invited to present in a session highlighting recent collaborations between academia and transportation that focused on how access to transportation affects the health and quality of life for older adults, people with disabilities, and low-income individuals,” Cuddy said. Beyond their clerkships, PURCH students are helping to make a difference by engaging with people and getting to know their neighborhoods. They serve on community committees, volunteer and visit community members in jails, food pantries, and homeless shelters. For example: • At Martin Luther King Jr. Family Services in Springfield, students work on a multiyear food

Nathan Taber is a student in the UMass Chan Medical School’s Population-based Urban and Rural Community Health (PURCH) track at the Baystate Health campus in Springfield. (BAYSTATE HEALTH PHOTO)

justice fair for food pantry clients. They provide nutrition education, cooking demonstrations, screening for diabetes and hypertension, and referrals to community services addressing food insecurity, mental health and more; • Kassandra Jean-Marie, a second-year student, was appointed by Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno to serve on the COVID-19 Youth Council, a subcommittee of the Vax Force Committee, where with other students she provided information and education on the COVID-19 vaccine to their peers. She was also involved in an internship in the new Office of Health and Racial Equity at the municipal Department of Health and Human Services; and • The Rural Health Network in Franklin County, where third-year student Annie Batten works to develop relationships with community members, understand their healthcare needs, and connect them to

resources in their communities. Another aspect of PURCH is a partnership with nonphysicians who work in community- based social service agencies, who have the title of Baystate community faculty. They are involved in many areas of PURCH from designing community education experiences to participating on the admissions committee to teaching students about community factors that influence health. Charlie Holmes, a Springfield resident and community activist, is one of the inaugural community faculty who was recruited for the position after participating in a poverty simulation exercise, a role he continues today. In 2020, Holmes received the UMass Chan Medical School “Patient Teacher Award” acknowledging his “contributions as an individual patient to undergraduate medical education.” “When I first learned about SEE PURCH, PAGE L11

‘Making It in Massachusetts’ for Baystate Health will not mean going back to the way we were. We will hold fast to our core identity as the region’s sole academic medical center, providing state of the art specialty care, and to our identity as an integrated health system with a broad and comprehensive network of primary care providers to knit all our capabilities together.

Keroack

tions, as well as traditional face-to-face encounters. As COVID-19 fades into the background, and as our workforce rebuilds and revitalizes, we will be able to renew our focus on providing the optimal experience of care captured in our promise statement: “Advancing Care. Enhancing Lives.” “Making It in Massachusetts” for Baystate Health will not mean going back to the way we were. We will hold

CONTINUES FROM PAGE L1

patients and about attending to how we can better understand what makes each patient unique so that we can make a real difference in their lives. I look forward to that future in which we both renew and refine our commitment to the health and well-being of those we are serve. Dr. Mark A. Keroack is president and CEO of Baystate Health. To learn more about Baystate Health, go online to baystatehealth.org.

Baystate Health president and CEO Dr. Mark Keroack, left, and chief physician executive Dr. Andrew W. Artenstein confer on COVID-19 data in December as the region and state braced to enter a third year of the pandemic. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Baystate Health a best place to work. Delivering on that promise first means keeping team members safe from infection, injury and workplace violence by building on our effective prevention programs. It means making continued progress on diversity, equity and inclusion. It means paying attention to the team members’ health and wellness. Baystate Health’s long history as an institution for training the next generation of health care workers is foundational to our culture of clinical excellence. This culture helped the system respond with flexibility and innovation during the pandemic. Currently, over 30 health professions train at Baystate Health in partnership with over 10 colleges and

universities. Our commitment has grown with the UMass Chan Medical School, as we serve as a regional campus for now up to 40 medical students a year. We are expanding our commitment to growing our own health care professionals as we begin enrolling our first family medicine residents this summer as they begin their training based at Baystate Franklin Medical Center in Greenfield. As we add back staff and resume our focus on our core strategies, we will have a renewed focus on improved access to care, improved digital experiences and improved coordination across sites and between specialties. Consumers will have greater options for virtual care and online interac-

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in which workforce strategies will be paramount, consumer demands heightened, and imperatives for both growth and cost containment stronger than ever. The system’s ability to succeed will rest on its continued movement toward a culture of learning, improvement, inclusion, kindness and ingenuity. All these imperatives must be understood with the awareness that our society is going through a fundamental reexamination of the meaning of work. Nationally, one in five health care workers have left the field since the pandemic began. We, too, have seen many departures of colleagues who have chosen to retire or resign. Our recruitment efforts are yielding new hires at 100 per week, and we still have a long way to go to reach full staffing of 13,000. I am proud of the amazing grit the Baystate Health team has shown in the face of unprecedented adversity. They have demonstrated a willingness to build on past strengths while not being constrained by old approaches. I am heartened each day by the energy, commitment and enthusiasm I see in our team members. Our road forward starts with a commitment to our team members, those who have borne the battle these past two years and those now willing to join us, to make

fast to our core identity as the region’s sole academic medical center, providing state of the art specialty care, and to our identity as an integrated health system with a broad and comprehensive network of primary care providers to knit all our capabilities together. We also have learned a lot over these past two years — about the importance of caring for our own caregivers so that they in turn can care for

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A Heartfelt Thank You

For nearly 150 years, our community has entrusted Baystate Health with their health and wellbeing. Every day - past and present - it is our privilege to care for you and your family - thank you. Today, we give a heartfelt thank you to our own family of frontline healthcare workers, and to all who support them, during this unprecedented time. Together, they are nearly 13,000 courageous, compassionate, steadfast and selfless individuals who are helping each other to better help our community. Because of their collective efforts, there will be brighter days ahead.

Will You Show Us Your Heart? Visit BaystateHealth.org/Heartfelt to join us in giving a heartfelt thank you to our Baystate Health frontline.

WATCH & FOLLOW THEIR STORY

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Registered nurse Kate Crowley, at left, readies infusion medication in the Mandell Multiple Sclerosis Center at Mercy Medical Center in Springfield. Mercy president Deborah Bitsoli says the center provides patients “a combination of cutting-edge treatments, groundbreaking research (and) innovative rehabilitation programs. At right, Dr. Matthew Cauchon, associate medical director of emergency medicine at Mercy, oversees and participates in the hospital’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program. The program brings a hospital Emergency Department physician directly to the patient in the field. (MERCY MEDICAL CENTER PHOTOS)

Mercy puts care at heart of healing

HANGE IS INEVITABLE. The past few years have brought tremendous change to health care, not only to the way in which care is delivered, but also to the “who, what, where and when” of treatment. Combating the pandemic has allowed us to see the necessities of care in a new light. New priorities of the patient experience emerged, from creating a safe, inclusive space for the miracle of life to treating the grief of a

lost loved one under quarantine — the circle of life has been reinvented in ways we had never imagined as health care providers. Mercy Medical Center continues to transform, reaching new levels of patient-centered care and service excellence, while continuing our longstanding commitment to the local community. At Mercy, we pride ourselves on being a high-reliability organization with a focus on quality and safety. The

great success of this approach is validated by Mercy’s third consecutive “Grade A” Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade for the fall of 2021, recognizing Mercy Medical Center’s achievements in providing patients a safe environment of care and protecting patients by demonstrating a high level of safety protocols. This extraordinary achievement provides independent confirmation that high quality care and excellence in patient safety are top priorities at Mercy.

With more than 65,000 annual visits, Mercy Medical Center’s Emergency Departments is one of the busiest in Massachusetts. In an effort to meet an increased demand for emergency services, we have an expansion project underway that will create additional Emergency Department rooms in a rapid medical evaluation area to support patients with lower acuity concerns as well as establish a new area for behavioral health patients to

(DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Deborah Bitsoli

SEE BITSOLI, PAGE L6

Claire Morenon

Farmers’ resilience rises to challenges

ESTERN MASSAchusetts farmers are used to managing the unknown. Resilience in the face of unexpected challenges is part of the job description — running a low-margin, seasonal, weather-dependent business requires farmers to adapt, absorb losses, and run with streaks of good fortune. As we head into the third year of the pandemic, our region’s farmers — along with their partners in area restaurants, grocery stores, small food production and more — are making it work and putting food on our tables. The pandemic has highlighted some stark realities about our food system: our utter reliance on essential food system workers; the number of people in our community who live one lost paycheck away from hunger; and the brittle design of the global industrial food system. It also showed the importance of local farms and other food businesses, and the immense positive impact that local advocacy and community work can have. The past year brought fewer of the major shocks that local businesses (and really, all of us) experienced in 2020. Early in

Above, spinning squash is peeled before being cut into pieces for bagging at McKinstry’s Market Garden in Chicopee. At left are Willard “Bill” McKinstry with sons Willard, left, and Warren. Business plans for the coming year including formally and legally bringing the younger McKinstrys into the business. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

AGRICULTURE

McKinstry’s roots run deep in Chicopee 6 generations have tilled land, sold produce

business. He was 14 years old and in the eighth grade. “He had to leave school to run the farm. He had two sisters and a brother that were younger, and he was the sole provider of the house,” says Bill McKinstry. At the ripe young age of 14 years By STAASI HEROPOULOS old, Willard McKinstry had a Special to The Republican shrewd eye for business. Too young The McKinstry family of farmers to even be called a businessman, has deep roots in Chicopee, first he took the farm in a different turning the soil and planting seeds direction, diversifying to make the in the early 1800s. Since then, six business stronger. generations of family members have “He didn’t want to put all his eggs worked the land, raising everything in one basket with the chickens so from livestock to vegetables. he’s the one that started doing more In the beginning, the family fovegetables,” says Bill McKinstry. cused almost exclusively on raising Today McKinstry’s Market Garden chickens and selling eggs, says is famous for its vegetables includWillard “Bill” McKinstry, owner of ing corn, beans, cucumbers summer McKinstry’s Market Garden. squash, radishes, beats, scallions, But then in 1908 tragedy struck tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, onions, and McKinstry’s great-grandfather and more. The family also sells fruit Karoline Klaus makes doughnuts in the bakery at McKinstry’s Market died. That’s when McKinstry’s it buys from a market in Boston. SEE MCKINSTRY’S , PAGE L12 Garden in Chicopee. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN) grandfather Willard took over the

“With all the restaurants being closed, people were forced to do their own cooking so they came to us for vegetables. A lot of people also bought plants from us so they could start their own garden. They had time on their hands and wanted to garden.” WILLARD “BILL” MCKINSTRY, MCKINSTRY’S MARKET GARDEN

SEE MORENON, PAGE L10

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TRIFECTA! 3 IN-A-ROW LEAPFROG GRADE A’S IN SAFETY

Mercy Medical Center is proud to announce that we’ve been awarded the Leapfrog “A” Hospital Safety Grade for the 3rd consecutive time. This is a national distinction recognizing Mercy’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing high-quality, safe health care. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade is the only hospital ratings program based exclusively on hospitals’ prevention of medical errors and other harms to patients in their care.

271 CAREW STREET, SPRINGFIELD, MA 01104 • TRINITYHEALTHOFNE.ORG

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SUCCESS STORIES

Springfield Label sticks to it 3rd-generation business grows 20% in 5 years

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

o company in Western Massachusetts went untouched by the pandemic, but one, Springfield Label & Tape Co., literally and figuratively, stuck to it and stayed in business.

Press operator Scott Vickers works on a machine at Springfield Label & Tape Co. on St. James Avenue. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Partners Herman Libowitz and Joseph Souvigney founded the company with a single printing press in Chicopee in 1963. The business has since grown to employ 34 people, run six presses and has moved to a large, modern facility in Springfield. “We’re a true family business,” said Scott Libowitz, co-owner and vice president. Libowitz is a third-generation owner of Springfield Label. He started with the company in the sales department in the 1990s and gradually took the reins, working alongside his father. He felt a bit of trepidation as he assumed increasing responsibility for we began working on the sucrunning the company. cession plan because many “I became petrified when businesses fail on their third

20% in the last five years, increasing annual sales from $5 million to $6 million, according to Libowitz. “One of the things that’s made us successful is our ability to be customer friendly,” he said. “We don’t have 18 layers of bureaucraAbove, employees work at cy. If something needs to be Springfield Label & Tape Co. changed in a day, it can be on St. James Avenue. At left, done. We try to be customer Kringfle Candle’s prototype focused.” labels and other labels made Springfield Label prints 16 by Springfield Label & Tape Co. types of labels for a range of Below are Springfield Thunderindustries, including aerobirds labels. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / space and defense, cannabis THE REPUBLICAN) and vape, chemical and safety, consumer products, craft beer, wine, and spirits, food and beverage and many others. The company managed to hold its own during the pandemic even as some of its most important businesses, like candles and conventions, shut down completely. That was offset by other companies that actually grew when COVID struck. generation and I didn’t want and we are growing.” “We had several customers that to happen on my watch,” The business has done that did grow, such as chemihe said. “But we are doing OK better than “OK,” growing cal companies, disinfectants,

wipes, biopharma companies and aerospace,” Libowitz said. Springfield Label is investing heavily in new technology as it enters 2022. In fact, the company added a new digital printer to its equipment inventory. “It’s got better color stability, (and) it’s going to allow us to print faster with better quality graphics,” Libowitz explained. “We’re looking to do more custom label printing with quick turnarounds. Companies that order on a Monday will have their labels on Thursday. We’re also trying to differentiate ourselves by reaching out to specialized markets.” The majority of Springfield Label’s production employees have been with the company for at least 20 years. The challenge going forward will be replacing retirees with a diminishing crop of recruits, as vocational schools turn out fewer and fewer graduates certified in printing, Libowitz noted.

“We’re looking to do more custom label printing with quick turnarounds. Companies that order on a Monday will have their labels on Thursday. We’re also trying to differentiate ourselves by reaching out to specialized markets.” SCOTT LIBOWITZ, SPRINGFIELD LABEL & TAPE CO.

Bitsoli CONTINUES FROM PAGE L4

be evaluated with dignity and compassion. Mercy’s commitment to our community is also demonstrated by our innovative approach to the treatment of diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). At our Mandell MS Center, patients benefit from a combination of cutting-edge treatments, groundbreaking research, innovative rehabilitation programs, and a multidisciplinary approach which is tailored to individual needs. The use of state-of-theart diagnostic equipment is central to the delivery of high-quality patient care. Mercy’s Signa Premier 3T Wide Bore “Open” MRI and Biograph PET-CT mCT provide enhanced imaging in a more spacious, patient-friendly design, putting the latest technology in the hands of our medical professionals. Our commitment to patients goes far beyond our hospital walls as we work to meet those we serve where they are. Mercy Medical Center’s Community Health and Well-Being Department recently received a $100,000 grant to support new and ongoing community engagement and mobilization efforts to make the COVID-19 vaccination accessible to all eligible populations. The grant, through Trinity Health’s “It Starts Here” campaign, is a COVID-19 vaccine education initiative focused on communities of color. To reach those in need, Mercy has also launched a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program which brings a hospital Emergency Department physician directly to the patient in the field. A CERT physician responds to 911 medical emergencies, together with an ambulance. The CERT vehicle contains equipment and resources to provide additional advanced care not traditionally available to patients by

Mercy Medical Center in Springfield created this Zen Room as a place where staff can go to relax and de-stress. It was designed to offer a full sensory relaxation experience with HD video nature scenes, surround sound, mood lighting, and essential oil scent diffusion. (MERCY MEDICAL CENTER PHOTO)

Our commitment to patients goes far beyond our hospital walls as we work to meet those we serve where they are.

reduce an individual’s stress level by 60%. Perhaps the best indicator of what sets Mercy apart from other hospitals is our faith-based approach to care and willingness to invest in our Mission to serve as a transforming, healing presence. With the recent paramedics. On-scene CERT opening of a new non-dephysicians support EMS with nominational chapel at the patient management decimain hospital entrance, a sions in the field and en route special place of prayer is to the hospital. more accessible to people Caring for the caregiver has of all faiths who seek a quiet never been more important place for reflection. than it is now. Our colleagues Mercy’s success and fortiare our greatest resource, and tude is clearly the result of a their resiliency and well-beteam effort. We are grateful ing are essential to our care to all affiliated and employed model. Mercy recognized the primary care providers and need to develop new ways specialists, all hospital-based to assist our colleagues with providers, and all members stress that has become overof Mercy’s support staff whelming and has grown as for their dedicated efforts. the COVID-19 pandemic has Together, through hard work, persisted. Taking this to heart, perseverance, and good we created a “Zen Room” stewardship, we will continfor colleagues, with a space ue to ensure the vibrancy of featuring a full sensory reour healing ministry for years laxation experience with HD to come. video nature scenes, surround On behalf of Mercy Medisound, mood lighting, and cal Center, it is a privilege to essential oil scent diffusion. serve our community. The Zen Room also features Deborah Bitsoli is president massage chairs, a yoga area, of Mercy Medical Center and and renewal space. And the its affiliates. To learn more benefits are measurable — about Mercy and its programs, peer-reviewed studies indigo online to mercycares.com/ cate that spending as little as springfield. 15 minutes in a Zen Room can

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Alzheimer’s Association New England Family Conference A FREE virtual conference for Individuals Living with Dementia and Family Caregivers

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Community, care are heart of HNE mission

he pandemic has served as a reminder that our members — the people who live and work in our communities — represent the very foundation of our mission. As a not-for-profit health plan and subsidiary of Baystate Health, we take pride in bringing our mission statement to life: to improve the health and lives of the people in our communities by providing outstanding service, delivering superior value and acting as a leading corporate citizen.

Richard Swift

firmly established remote work as the “new normal.” With the physical and emotional needs of our own employees at the forefront, we have established numerous health and wellness incentives and challenges for associates, and we offer a variety of services ranging from one-on-one In many different ways, 2021 was a In late 2020, we entered a partnership nutrition counseling to daily mindfulness sessions. special — and challenging — year for with Healthmap Solutions to deliver In addition, as an organization that Health New England. Not only did we comprehensive care to members facmark our 35th anniversary by develing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and serves members of all races, sexual oping new programs and initiatives end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Over orientations and religions, Health New the past year, too, we have expanded England has recognized the impordesigned to simplify health care and tance of reflecting the area’s diversity maintain competitive costs for our our care management programs to among our employee base. In 2021, we members; we expanded our meminclude partnerships with ProgenyHealth and Babyscripts, providing bership to over 180,000 residents of established a number of initiatives to services for infants in need of neona- improve health equity and employer, Western and Central Massachusetts and Northern Connecticut. We did tal intensive care and online resources vendor and supplier diversity, and we for soon-to-be parents. this while navigating an ongoing held workshops related to diversity and inclusion, and transgender and non2021 also brought into focus our COVID-19 pandemic that is still presenting health challenges and sociosupport for community organizations binary employee awareness. We also experiencing economic uncertaineconomic instability in the region. honored our associates — and family members — who served in the armed ty due to the pandemic. As the only In 2020 and again in 2021, the pandemic resulted in a shift in how health plan based in Springfield, we forces. We look forward to continuing these important efforts to support our patients receive health care. The pan- once again expanded our community demic’s socioeconomic impact has benefits support, providing $600,000 employees in 2022 and beyond. in grants to nonprofit organizations Looking ahead into 2022, it’s difficult changed what patients look for in a health plan. In response, Health New throughout Western Massachusetts to predict how the pandemic will continue to impact our region. We are England introduced a preferred proto address issues ranging from food insecurity to mental health care, from vider organization (PPO) plan option following state and federal guidance to housing and basic needs to COVID-19 ensure that our members have access for Medicare Advantage members, relief efforts. In addition, Health New allowing enrollees extra flexibility to information about COVID-19 care, when choosing a doctor or specialist. England awarded grants to organizatesting and treatment. As a part of the In addition, we developed a five-tier Baystate Health family, we contintions working to address and improve pharmacy option for members, offer- racial health equity across the region. ue to work closely with providers to ing additional cost savings to employ- This brings our four-year total to more deliver high quality care to members. We remain committed to living our er groups while allowing members to than $4 million donated to area nonprofit organizations. mission by putting our members and access quality care and Health New England’s expansive formulary, lowOur ability to serve both members our community first as we adapt to an cost generic drugs and $0 preventive and the local community would simply ever-changing health care landscape. not be possible without our associates. Richard Swift is president and CEO care medications. While 2020 uprooted business as usual of Health New England. To learn more Furthermore, COVID-19 has emphasized the need for proactive man- at Health New England and organiabout Health New England, visit healthnewengland.org. agement of chronic health conditions. zations throughout the region, 2021

We continue to work closely with providers to deliver high quality care to members. We remain committed to living our mission by putting our members and our community first as we adapt to an ever-changing health care landscape.

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MMWEC, municipal partners unite to reduce carbon footprint

S WE ENTER YEAR three of the global pandemic, COVID-19 continues to challenge us in ways we could not have imagined even a year ago. But the commonwealth’s consumer-owned municipal utilities and their state-designated joint action agency, the Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Co. (MMWEC), have continued to forge ahead in support of the commonwealth’s carbon emissions reduction goals. With 20 municipal utility members and 28 project participants, including the utilities in Holyoke, Chicopee, Russell, South Hadley and Westfield, MMWEC has helped to ensure the consumer-owned utilities it serves never missed a beat due to the pandemic. The utilities enacted shutoff moratoriums, developed payment plans for struggling customers and led customers to resources to help them pay their bills. At the same time, the municipal utilities continued on their paths to developing new innovative programs and services in response to public policy goals and customers’

Ronald C. DeCurzio desires to reduce their carbon footprints. The state’s municipal light plants (MLPs) worked together to develop their own greenhouse gas emissions standard, with emissions targets established for the years 2030, 2040 and 2050. This standard was included in the climate law signed by Gov. Charlie Baker, demonstrating the light plants’ commitment to aligning with the state’s carbon emissions reduction goals. Although the ink was not yet dry on the new climate law in early 2021, MMWEC was already working with its member light plants to help develop individual power supply roadmaps for each utility, SEE DECURZIO, PAGE L15

The Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Co. is rebranding its residential, commercial and industrial programs in alignment with the shifting focus toward decarbonization. The new program will be known as NextZero, to better reflect the mission to provide the most efficient, innovative and equitable path to energy decarbonization for their communities. NextZero’s mission emphasizes the critical role that community-owned utilities play in developing the clean energy future. (MMWEC GRAPHIC)

Let’s grow together. At Health New England, our mission is to improve the health and lives of the people in our communities by providing outstanding service, delivering superior value, and acting as a leading corporate citizen. This mission is the foundation that guides us every day, especially during these challenging times. As your local health plan, we pride ourselves on the meaningful difference we have made in the lives of our members for more than 35 years. We look forward to another 35 years of being here for you every step of the way.

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healthnewengland.org/grow

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We are committed to our staff and physicians through thick and thin and caring for them is our top priority. In return, our staff and physicians care for our patients and for each other like no other group with whom I have worked.

Small hospital, big heart and caring staff

t has been almost two years since we introduced a new “most frequently used” word into our vocabulary: “pandemic.” Before March 2020, I may have heard or used that word in history class when learning about the bubonic plague or some other health-related historical calamity.

In time, as in the past, this, too, will fade into memory, and, hopefully, we will learn from the experience. In taking pen to paper for this piece, I made a commitment to myself that I would not focus on the pandemic. I, along with many of us in the health-care field, are very tired of it and long to move on. So, I am going to exercise self-discipline and refrain from mentioning it again here. Of course, one wonders with the news being dominated by “that subject,” what else can I write about that gives justice to the theme of “Making it in Western Massachusetts?” I decided to write about the little hospital that could in Western Massachusetts and the people who make it happen in this little gem of a hospital, Holyoke Medical Center. Small place, but big heart and wonderful people. That, in a nutshell is what Holyoke Medical Center is to many of us and to the people we serve. As the stress of long hours, staff shortages and many other challenges washes over us, we draw strength from a camaraderie and open heartedness that is rare not only in Western Massachusetts, but in the hospital industry in general. In my over 30 years of service in health care, I rarely experienced the wonderful culture we have nurtured at Holyoke Medical Center and our affiliated organizations: River

Valley Counseling Center; Hospice Life Care; Holyoke Visiting Nurse Association; and the Holyoke Medical Group, all part of Valley Health Systems. How does this culture happen and what are the implications for making it happen in Western Massachusetts? The culture starts with our staff, physicians, leadership team and our boards of directors. We are committed to our staff and physicians through thick and thin and caring for them is our top priority. In return, our staff and physicians care for our patients and for each other like no other group with whom I have worked. So, how do we care for our teams? It starts with complete transparency. Ask anyone working here about the big-picture issues happening in our organization and they will know them. They will know them because we communicate openly and frequently on all issues. We don’t surprise or blindside people. We respect every individual. We don’t coerce, threaten or force policy on people. We have open discussions about options and individual rights and responsibilities. It is great to talk big about respecting individuals, but here at Valley Health Systems, we don’t just talk about it, we actually do it. We commit to our people. We commit to helping them grow by of-

Spiros Hatiras

Members of the Holyoke Medical Center Wound Care Center team stand in the hyperbaric chamber room with the 2020 Center of Distinction Award. From left are: Lizbeth Pacheco; registered nurse Dawn Connolly-Schafer; program director Ann Johnson; medical director Dr. Savitri Rambissoon; registered nurse Ryanne Whalen; and registered nurse Ginny Fuhringer. (HOLYOKE MEDICAL CENTER PHOTO)

and large, are a failure to manage well. They are cruel and hurtful to good people who put their trust in leadership to sustain their jobs. We do the small things that are nevertheless the very important things: Like saying “thank you.” Like buying our staff special free meals and coffee at times of stress. Like offering additional time off when they have to forgo time with their loved ones to help in a crisis. And, like establishing an employee assistance fund for those times when life is extra difficult. We strive to pay fairly and to the best of our ability as a small independent hospital. We know we can’t Valley Health Systems employee always match the salaries of bigger Karen Crevier-Estes holds up a $50 systems in and outside the valley, gift certificate provided by Valley but we do our utmost to be fair, to Health Systems and printed on pay the most we can afford and to special “HOLOJET” paper donated not forget the people in the lower by Hazen Paper Co. The certificate salary ranks. was provided to be used at locally Since 2014, we have had a policy owned food establishments as a to pay at least $2 above the state holiday gift. minimum wage for our entry-level fering one of the most generous tu- jobs. We have already reached $15 ition reimbursement policies in the and will be above $16 this year. valley. We commit to their employWe cover everyone with excellent ment. We are a zero-layoff organiza- medical benefits and are always tion. In the almost nine years I have there for anyone who needs help had the privilege to be leading this with care or medical bills. organization, we have never had a This is how we are making it layoff and we never will. Layoffs, by happen in Western Massachusetts.

What is the result you may ask? The result is one of the most compassionate, caring and high-quality health care institutions in the valley. And here is a quick preview of another, huge benefit to our communities: The Donahue Institute at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is completing an economic impact study for our health system. Details will be released shortly, but here are a couple of direct quotes from the study: “The total direct, indirect, and induced effects of (Valley Health Systems’) operations create or support an average of nearly 4,100 jobs, whose cumulative earnings approach $3.7 billion over the 11 years studied” and, “These jobs and incomes are paired with business and government revenues. Over 11 years, VHS cumulatively adds $5.9 billion to business revenues (i.e., output) at an average of $537 million of new production per year.” In closing, I want to offer a huge thank you to our communities, patients and our volunteer board members for their support and confidence in us. Spiros Hatiras is president and CEO of Holyoke Medical Center and Valley Health Systems. To learn more about the health systems, go online to holyokehealth.com.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | L9

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

The Power of Care.

Fueled by Quality & Compassion. For all your health care needs, count on the community hospital that has set the standard in patient care for more than 125 years.

ISO Certification

Superior Stroke Care

Expanding Service

A quality Management System, reflecting our commitment to quality, transparency, and patient satisfaction. HMC is the first and only hospital in Western Mass to obtain this prestigious accomplishment.

HMC is consistently recognized every year by the National Heart Association and the Massachusetts Paul Coverdell National Acute Stroke Program for excellence and quality of stroke care.

Each year we add more board certified physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants, grow our community navigation system, and increase medical specialties to meet the needs of our community.

HolyokeHealth.com

Share Your L♥ve for Our Healthcare Heroes! Express appreciation to our #healthcareheroes by visiting https://bit.ly/2YB6FW1! Your kind words and pictures help keep our heroes in good spirits while they continue to provide the best care for our community.

Holyoke Medical Center • Holyoke Medical Group Holyoke VNA Hospice Life Care • River Valley Counseling Center

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L10 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUCCESS STORIES

40 years on, Andy’s still crafts furniture to last

By CORI URBAN

Special to The Republican

ou might say Andy’s & the Oak Shoppe is the grandfather of this family of businesses in Greenfield.

Andy’s & The Oak Shoppe is located on Route 5 just south of the Greenfield center. Andy’s has been in business for 40 years. Children’s sized furniture is featured in a section of the store. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

What began as a retirement hobby for the founder, Andy Conti, has grown and expanded to include three locations and four distinct brands. Andy’s & the Oak Shoppe and Homespun are under the same roof at 352 Deerfield St. on Route 5 in Greenfield, while Bedrooms by Andy’s is diagonally across the street at 329 Deerfield St. The newest store, Andy’s of Keene in New Hampshire, is the company’s

first store outside Franklin County. Conti’s granddaughter, Kate B. Finn, is a co-owner. While many other businesses were closing during the COVID-19 pandemic, Andy’s expanded. “We were approached by the owner of Manny’s Appliances (who had purchased the old Plotkin Furniture building) to split the 18,000-square-foot space with Manny’s,” Finn explained. “Since it was a well know furniture store before and it was a great opportunity to expand, we decided to open another Andy’s in Keene.” Having appliances and furniture together under one roof made sense to all involved in the businesses. “We hired back two former Plotkin Furniture employees that John Plotkin

SEE ANDY’S, PAGE L19

“For 40 years, we have listened to our customers’ feedback and have adjusted accordingly. I think that’s what makes a great furniture business — one that’s willing to try new things and evolve.” KATE B. FINN, ANDY’S & THE OAK SHOPPE, GREENFIELD

Morenon CONTINUES FROM PAGE L4

2020, when the pandemic first hit, area farmers hustled to stay on top of the early season work that was already underway while they managed the changes of the pandemic: markets and businesses closing, uncertainty about the main summer growing season, and shifting recommendations and requirements to keep staff and customers safe. Some took big leaps of faith and invested in costly new home delivery, online ordering and curbside pickup systems. And then, throughout that uncertain spring and summer, many area farms saw an unexpected surge of demand from customers whose pandemic concerns pushed them to find new options for purchasing for food, and customers who wanted to support local businesses during the crisis. Also early in the pandemic, as hunger levels surged, came the development of new, innovative partnerships. Nonprofits, activists, munic-

ipalities, school districts, farmers, restaurants and others began working together in various configurations to keep our communities fed. The region’s legislators, with the support of CISA and many, many other advocates, successfully campaigned for an expansion of the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), which provides an instant dollar-to-dollar rebate, up to a monthly cap, when shoppers use the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to buy produce from participating farms. The urgency of the COVID crisis crystallized a lot of good ideas into serious action. From shoppers choosing to support local businesses more than ever before to communities coming together to fill in gaps caused by the pandemic, the past two years have brought many opportunities to live our existing values. Of course, none of this work would have been possible without the foundation that has been laid over many years. Decades of support for local farm businesses — everything from CISA’s 28 years of dedicated assistance to the thousands of Western Massachusetts

residents who choose local when shopping — mean that our region’s farms have the resources to make the changes required so they could keep safely producing and selling food. A robust network of nonprofits, advocates, municipalities and others was able to swing into action throughout the valley to link local farms, emergency food providers and community members who needed help. Much of this was also facilitated by funding from the state and federal governments — most notably, the state’s Food Security Infrastructure Grant and federal COVID-19 economic relief funding. This is not a story without hardship and loss. The positive responses to the pandemic were necessary because of the very real tragedy and privation that so many people have suffered and are still suffering. Many local businesses, most notably restaurants, have not been able to survive the financial hardships brought on by the pandemic. And farmers, who have largely been able to adapt their businesses to the pandemic, continue to face countless unknowns,

from eternally shifting markets to the specific threats of climate change. In 2021, some of the demand from 2020 dropped and some remained high, continuing the trend of market instability that make it hard for farmers to plan. The past year also brought an unusual amount of rain, which drowned crops, spread disease and made fields unworkable. There are so many things we can’t know yet: what the COVID pandemic will look like throughout 2022, what communities will need as circumstances change or what challenges farmers will manage during the 2022 growing season. But we do know this: hard times call us to take action in support of the things that matter most. If the pandemic helped to crystallize your values, this is a good time to commit to continuing to work towards deeper, ongoing change now and when the crisis eases. Claire Morenon is communications manager at Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA). Visit the CISA website, buylocalfood.org, to learn more.

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Staff members from left, Kate B. Finn, Elizabeth Moore and Joe Easton on the showroom floor at Andy’s & The Oak Shoppe. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

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I am committed to ensuring that Cooley Dickinson strives to be the best community health care system in the nation. The ingredients are all here. Our doctors, nurses, and clinical staff are among the best. Our facilities and programs are excellent. Our mix of inpatient, outpatient, and community programs serve our community well

Above, an infant is examined at the Oxbow Family Practice, part of the Cooley Dickinson medical group. It opened in November 2019 at 15 Atwood Drive, Northampton, and treats patients of all ages for regular checkups. The practice has an added focus on obstetrics and LGBTQ-friendly care. At right, the Mass General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital in Northampton provides patients care close to home, but also connects them with services through the Mass General Brigham network. Physicians in Northampton coordinate care with their colleagues at the Mass General Cancer Center in Boston. (COOLEY DICKINSON HOSPITAL PHOTOS)

Patients are ‘essential purpose’ at Cooley Dickinson

his Outlook column marks my first published article in The Republican as Cooley Dickinson Health Care’s new president and CEO. It is my privilege to call Western Massachusetts my home and to begin to serve this dynamic and vibrant community. As you know — and as is reflected on the pages of this Outlook 2022 special section — we continue to manage the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you are a parent, business owner, teacher, or front-line worker, the pandemic has tested us in ways we never imagined. I’m incredibly proud of the way our staff has persevered, navigated change, and made adjustments to serve our residents. The perspective and experience I bring to managing through this pandemic are anchored in the industry I know best, health care. As a second-generation physician, my love of medicine dates back to the days when I accompanied my father, Dr. Garey L.C. Watkins, an ophthalmologist, as he rounded on patients at Christian Hospital Northwest in St. Louis. Even as a young girl, I knew I wanted to

especially during the early days of COVID-19 when the first cases of the novel coronavirus began to spread. The pandemic has taught us to be nimble, and how we deliver care — and how our community receives care — has changed. We created protocols for masking, screening, testing, and administering vaccines follow in his footsteps. and booster shots. The pandemic After earning undergraduate and taught us we could develop new ways Lynnette Watkins medical degrees at the University of of doing things quickly. We set up Missouri-Kansas City and completing drive-thru testing facilities on our an internship in internal medicine at what is right. Putting patients first campus and later in our urgent care Truman Medical Center in Kansas means organizing ourselves and our clinics. We learned how to provide City, I moved to Boston for resisystems — how we deliver health care care to patients virtually and contindency at Massachusetts Eye & Ear, — to align with what patients need. ue to offer virtual care as an option. an experience that stayed with me We seek to create, coordinate, and Collaboration among clinicians and as I worked in hospitals and clinics integrate programs so that patients public health authorities, including throughout the United States. I could have a great experience every time health departments and community not be more excited to work with they enter our facilities to receive care agencies, has been vital during the Cooley Dickinson and Mass General or interact with us virtually. pandemic. We are grateful for these Brigham colleagues to build on our • The Power of Collaboration: In partnerships. Working together, we strengths in service to our patients these pandemic times, being part of will continue to strive for healthy and the communities we serve. a world-class health system, Mass communities and equity in health and • Patients: Our Essential Purpose: General Brigham has added tremen- health care At Cooley Dickinson, our mission is to dous value to what we can offer our • Thanking Health Care Workers: serve patients and communities with patients and communities. For exam- Health care workers at Cooley Dickinexceptional, compassionate, and per- ple, we have had access to top clinical son and everywhere have been amazsonalized care. Putting patients at the expertise and guidance as well as ing during the pandemic. I am in awe SEE WATKINS, PAGE L19 center of all that we do orients us to personal protective equipment,

www.cooleydickinson.org

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PURCH CONTINUES FROM PAGE L2

PURCH and my possible role as a faculty member, my initial thought was how wonderful to now have medical professionals coming to us when we traditionally go to them for care,” said Holmes. “It felt as if for the first time we now had a voice in our health care and the obstacles we face in our communities. As I’ve said before, it keeps everyone humble as the community shares and medical pros listen.” “It is a privilege to work with Charlie to create valuable educational experiences for our medical students that better prepare them to build trusting relationships with the vulnerable and marginalized communities that we care for,” said Dr. Sarah Perez McAdoo, director of health equity education and practice. She is responsible for creating the program’s many community connections. “Charlie has also been instrumental working with our students on a special Food in Urban Environment session conducted as part of their first-year training,” said McAdoo. “He brings students to local markets, where they simulate shopping for weekly groceries with SNAP benefits.” Last June, PURCH’s inaugural class of 19 students graduated with their medical degrees. Four remained at Baystate to complete their residencies. “Many new doctors accepted in a residency often stay in the community where they complete that residency,” said Hinchey. “It is our great hope that these students will remain here to practice at Baystate or elsewhere in the Pioneer Valley. In today’s environment where workforce is an issue in all industries, we are creating our own health care workforce to address the shortage.”

L12 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

McKinstry runs the farm with his wife, Nicole, and their sons Willard, who is 23, and Warren, who is 21.

Workers peel and cut squash at McKinstry’s Market Garden in Chicopee. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

McKinstry’s

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garden. They had time on their hands and wanted to garden,” says McKinstry. CONTINUES FROM PAGE L4 “We spent a lot of time McKinstry runs the farm teaching people how to cook with his wife, Nicole, and vegetables and grow plants. their sons Willard, who That was fun.” is 23, and Warren, who is Last summer the Mc21. They work 60 acres of Kinstrys tore down their land in Hadley, 60 acres in 2,500-square-foot farm stand, Granby and 15 in Chicopee, replacing it with a garden where they also operate a store that is three times as big. 7,500-square-foot garden The farm stand had no heat store that debuted last or air conditioning and only summer. three walls, so it couldn’t operThe McKinstrys sell only ate from October to May. The fruit and vegetables today. new store is fully enclosed, They gave up on chickens has heat and air conditioning, in the 1960s after losing and operates year-round. too many birds to hawks “COVID kind of pushed and coyotes. It also became us to do that because with clear that produce was much pandemic restrictions in place more profitable. we could only allow 15 people The pandemic proved in the farm stand because the to be a boon for the McKsquare footage was so small. instrys, as restaurants shut It was also hot in the summer down and consumers were and so cold in the winter, the left to make their own produce froze,” says McKmeals. instry. “With all the restaurants The McKinstrys’ big move being closed, people were for this year will be to formally forced to do their own cook- and legally bring Willard and ing so they came to us for Warren into the business, vegetables. A lot of people ensuring the farm stays in the also bought plants from us family for at least one more so they could start their own generation.

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Thornes

“We know what works and what doesn’t work, CONTINUES FROM PAGE L1 and we have a high bar for who we want to 2020 through July 2021, bring in here. New shops need to fit Thornes’ tenants received what Doele describes as “sigand elevate our collective offering.” nificant rent successions.” “We don’t measure success by traditional financial metrics,” Madowitz says. “It’s about the tenants’ success and growth.” Protecting Thornes’ history – particularly its architectural beauty — is also a priority for its owners, who have invested heavily in preserving such accents as the white oak custom doors at the Main Street entrance, intricate stained-glass windows and tin ceilings. “We wanted to create a statement,” says Madowitz. “We want the Thornes experience to be unlike that at any other mall.” Thornes is home to a wide scope of shops from retail to offices for attorneys and financial planners and a yoga studio, and owners value its track record as a stellar incubator space for new business. Downtown icons from A-Z Learning to Gazebo to Rebekah Brooks Jewelry began as smaller shops within the marketplace. “What we do here is unparalleled,” Doele says. Nate Sustick, acting general manager of the 43-year-old Paul & Elizabeth’s restaurant, would agree; he credits Thornes leadership with helping the business survive the pandemic — along with funds from the Paycheck Protection Program. A mix of hard work, luck and fate also kept the family business afloat short-term, as it has from the beginning. Looking forward, Sustick says P&E’s, as regulars call it, will also “just keep doing what we’re doing. We’re striving hard to stay consistent, provide a healthy alternative and a slightly different option for dining.” Cedar Chest, another

JODY DOELE, THORNES MARKETPLACE, NORTHAMPTON

we want to bring in here,” Doele says, noting Thornes is actively recruiting an independent jeweler. “New shops need to fit and elevate our collective offering.” The occupancy rate is currently above 90%, which is a good place to be. “We’ve been at 100, but it’s an ongoing game,” Doele says, adding, “When you’re at 100%, there’s only one place to go, and that’s down.” Even with the cost of pandemic reparations for shop owners and staff, along with the tremendous cost for sanitation protocols, Madowitz says Thornes is in great General manager at Paul & Elizabeth’s restaurant Nate Sustick, Thornes Marketplace marketing director Jody Doele and shape, in part thanks to loyal shoppers who made a point manager at Cedar Chest Dror Shmerling. The mall shuttered to buy downtown. from April 2020 until July 2021 for the health and wellness of Says Doele, “We benefit the small business owners and their staffs, as well as patrons. greatly from this commu(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN) nity, and equally important is the commitment of our building (and downtown) This varied shop model is mainstay, is also followcentral to Thorne’s targeted staff, who rose to the occaing what has worked over and purposeful leasing strat- sion of this thing that none of us have ever experienced the 40-plus years it’s been egy. “We know what works before and did it with grace located in Thornes. General and what doesn’t work, and and kindness.” manager Dror Shmerling we have a high bar for who said support from Thornes and a major transition to online sales, whipped into being in 10 days, kept the eclectic shop alive during the pandemic. Going forward, it will continue to provide great customer service, competitive prices, unique merchandise and a hybrid model of online and in-store sales. Shmerling and Sustick both said being in the cluster of stores that is Thornes is also central to success. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm Sat. 8am-3pm “Each store supports anSun. 9am-2pm other,” Sustick says. “People come to buy a book and come in here to get a cup of 413-785-5148 soup, and vice versa.” 184 Union Street, West Springfield • www.DurocherFlorist.com

Best Florist for 7 years in a row!

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | L13

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䄀挀挀爀攀搀椀琀愀琀椀漀渀䠀漀琀氀椀渀攀㨀㠀㘀㘀ⴀ㔀㘀㘀ⴀ㄀㌀㈀㌀ 뜀 䌀漀渀猀甀洀攀爀䠀漀琀氀椀渀攀㨀㠀㘀㘀ⴀ㔀㘀㘀ⴀ㤀㈀㈀㈀吀栀椀猀椀猀渀漀琀愀挀漀洀瀀氀攀琀攀氀椀猀琀椀渀最漀昀䄀挀挀爀攀搀椀琀攀搀䈀甀猀椀渀攀猀猀攀猀⸀ 䈀䈀䈀搀漀攀猀渀漀琀攀渀搀漀爀猀攀愀渀礀挀漀洀瀀愀渀礀Ⰰ 椀渀搀椀瘀椀搀甀愀氀Ⰰ 瀀爀漀搀甀挀琀漀爀猀攀爀瘀椀挀攀⸀

AUTO REPAIR/SERVICES

FLOOR COVERING

HOME IMPROVEMENT

SEAMLESS GUTTERS

SPARTAN AUTO CARE CENTER 631 State Street, Springfield, MA 01109 865 Memorial Avenue,W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 781-2480 / (413) 739-2175

AMERICAN RUG

PHILIP BEAULIEU & SON HOME IMPROVEMENT 217 Grattan Street, Chicopee, MA 01020 (413) 592-1498

CLARK & SONS SEAMLESS GUTTERS, INC. Chicopee, MA 01020/ Belchertown, MA 01007 (413) 732-3934

GUTTERS AND GUTTER PROTECTION

INSULATION

USED TIRE MAXX 519 Front Street, Chicopee, MA 01013 (413) 557-6908 79 Enfield St., Enfield CT 06082 (860) 698-6030 UsedTireMaxx.com

BUILDING MATERIAL A. BOILARD SONS, INC. LUMBER & BUILDING MATERIALS 476 Oak Street, Indian Orchard, MA 01151 (413) 543-4100

CABINET REFACING INTERSTATE CUSTOM KITCHEN & BATH 558 Chicopee Street, Chicopee, MA 01013 (413) 532-2727 www.interstatekitchens.com

CARPENTRY PHILIP BEAULIEU & SON HOME IMPROVEMENT 217 Grattan Street, Chicopee, MA 01020 (413) 592-1498

DRYWALL CONTRACTORS CHAMPAGNE DRYWALL, INC. 36 Russo Circle, Agawam, MA 01001 (413) 786-4989

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS GALLERANI ELECTRIC CO., INC. 451 Springfield Street, Wilbraham, MA 01095 (413) 596-5766

1594 Dwight Street, Holyoke, MA 01040 (413) 533-3000 www.AmericanRugAndFlooring.com

GUTTER-SHIELD by NESCOR 148 Doty Circle, W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 739-4333 www.nescornow.com

HEATING/AIR CONDITIONING/PLUMBING O’CONNELL OIL 25 Texas Road, Northampton, MA 01060 (413) 568-6800 Oconnelloil.com

HEATING SERVICE CONTRACTORS S.G. RACETTE PLUMBING, LLC Springfield, MA 01128 (413) 786-6764 www.sgracetteplumbing.com

NESCOR

148 Doty Circle, W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 739-4333 www.nescornow.com INTERSTATE CUSTOM KITCHEN & BATH 558 Chicopee Street, Chicopee, MA 01013 (413) 532-2727 www.interstatekitchens.com

SECURITY SYSTEMS EASTERN ELECTRONICS & SECURITY, INC. 540 Main Street, W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 736-5181 / (800) 536-7328 www.ees-security.com

SHEDS/GAZEBOS/ GARDEN ACCENTS SKIPS OUTDOOR ACCENTS, INC. 1265 Suffield Street, Agawam, MA 01001 (413) 786-0990 www.skipsonline.com

ON-SITE DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION

SIDING

PLUMBING

REPAIR

S.G. RACETTE PLUMBING, LLC Springfield, MA 01128 (413) 786-6764 www.sgracetteplumbing.com

DAVE’S TRUCK REPAIR 649 Cottage St.,, Springfield, MA 01104 (413) 734-8898 www.davestruckrepairinc.net

PHILIP BEAULIEU & SON HOME IMPROVEMENT PROSHRED SECURITY 217 Grattan Street, Chicopee, MA 01020 75 Post Office Park, Wilbraham, MA 01095 (413) 592-1498 (413) 596-5479 www.proshred.com TRUCK/MOTORHOME

HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING SERVICES

WINDOWS PRECISION SHEET METAL NESCOR FABRICATION CUSTOM POWER COATING 148 Doty Circle,

ALLIED HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 101 Circuit Avenue, W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 732-5599

R.R. LEDUC CORPORATION 100 Bobala Road, Holyoke, MA 01040 (413) 536-4329 www.rrleduc.com

HOME HEALTH CARE

NESCOR 148 Doty Circle, W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 739-4333 www.nescornow.com

ROOFING

CARING SOLUTIONS, LLC Stay at home...We can help 131 Elm Street, W. Springfield, MA 01089 PHILIP BEAULIEU & SON (413) 733-5588 HOME IMPROVEMENT www.Caring-Solutions.com 217 Grattan Street, Chicopee, MA 01020 (413) 592-1498

W. Springfield, MA 01089 (413) 739-4333 www.nescornow.com PHILIP BEAULIEU & SON HOME IMPROVEMENT 217 Grattan Street, Chicopee, MA 01020 (413) 592-1498 WINDOW WORLD OF WESTERN MASS., INC. Hampton Ponds Plaza, 1029 North Road, Westfield, MA 01085 (413) 485-7335 www.WindowWorldofSpringfield.com

If you are a member of the Better Business Bureau and would like to be listed on this page call (413) 788-1165.

L14 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

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THE SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

UPCOMING SIGNATURE EVENTS VIRTUAL 2022 OUTLOOK March 11, 2022

FIRE & ICE CRAFT COCKTAIL COMPETITION

is the voice of business for our members. We work together to create a shared vision for our region, strengthen and improve our economy, develop the region’s workforce, and provide legislative advocacy. For more than a century, the Chamber has promoted, supported, and enhanced the economic health of the region. SUPPORT OUR REGION’S GROWTH.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | L15

An archival photo of the first Rocky’s Ace Hardware store on Main Street in Springfield, above. At left, Rocco J. Falcone II, president and CEO of Rocky’s Ace Hardware, with his son and category manager Johnny Falcone. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBICAN)

LEGACY BUSINESS

Rocky’s closes in on century in hardware Founded in 1926, Falcone family grows business

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

occo Falcone II has been at the helm of Rocky’s Ace Hardware for some 30 years, and he’s had to navigate the company through some rocky waters, including competition from bigbox stores, online retailers, inflation, product shortages and, now, a pandemic.

Even so the company has expanded steadily and is positioned for growth in the coming years. Rocco “Rocky” J. Falcone founded Rocky’s in 1926 as a rental center at the corner of Main and Union Streets in downtown Springfield. The business has grown and evolved over the years and is now a significant presence with 38 stores and 543 employees in eight states along the East Coast, from Maine to Florida. Rocky’s has transitioned from a store that only rented items to one that simply sells them. The transition happened over three generation of Falcone leadership. Rocco Falcone II assumed his leadership position from his father, James Falcone, just as Home Depot was becoming a significant presence in the

market. Falcone knew he had to differentiate himself from the big-box retailer, and he did it by making it nearly impossible for his customers to pass and ignore Rocky’s on their way to Home Depot. “We’re in your neighborhood, in the center of town. People aren’t going to drive by two Rocky’s stores and go to Home Depot for a pound of nails or a gallon of paint,” Falcone says. “We’re a convenient stop for them. And we offer awesome customer service. We get people in and out. We hold their hand and give them the confidence to do their project when they need it.” Rocky’s has also been able to keep its prices competitive by being part of the ACE co-op made up of 5,000 stores. ACE buys a huge volume of product

from large manufacturers and sells it to its members at reduced prices. That allows member stores like Rocky’s to keep their prices low. Falcone has faced several challenges including a pandemic that shuttered many businesses. His stores were deemed essential and allowed to remain open. Still, there were problems along the way. “Early on it was just keeping our associates and customers safe — coming up with proper cleaning and sanitizing protocols,” he explains. “We were blessed to be deemed essential and were allowed to remain open because we sold products people needed during the pandemic. We didn’t have to close like other companies, but it was difficult to get help.” Falcone is now having a dif-

While COVID-19 may have changed the way we do business, the municipal utilities of Massachusetts and MMWEC continue moving forward towards decarbonization, while ensuring that municipal utility customers receive the reliable, superior service at the lowest cost they have enjoyed for more than 100 years.

An archival photo of Rocky’s Ace Hardware founder Rocco “Rocky” J. Falcone. He founded the company in 1926 as a rental center in downtown Springfield. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN /

“We’re in your neighborhood, in the center of town. People aren’t going to drive by two Rocky’s stores and go to Home Depot for a pound of nails or a gallon of paint.” ROCCO FALCONE II, ROCKY’S ACE HARDWARE

products than we ever have been,” he says. “For the most part we’re able to offer substitute products. If someone THE REPUBLICAN) comes in looking for a particuficult time keeping his shelves lar chainsaw, for example, we fully stocked with product be- have four others that we can cause of a gummed-up supply offer them.” chain. Rocky’s has added one to two “We are stocking up on stores to its chain for each of certain products when we can the last 10 years and achieved get them, but we’re out of more steady 10% growth. Falcone

says he is certain that success will continue by offering local, personal service that customers can’t find online or in some of his bigger competitors. And, a fourth generation of his family is in line for the future of Rocky’s. His son, Johnny Falcone, works for the company as a category manager-buyer in the merchandising area.

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DeCurzio CONTINUES FROM PAGE L7

ensuring that each light department has a clearly defined path towards net zero carbon emissions. MMWEC is also working with its members to address environmental justice issues in their communities and increase access to energy efficiency and other programs for underserved communities. New programs and services continue to be developed for the benefit of municipal utility customers, despite the pandemic. In 2021, MMWEC expanded its Connected Homes Program, which leverages the technology of smart appliances and devices, such as wifi thermostats and electric vehicle chargers, into cost savings for customers. Thirteen members now participate, and new devices continue to be added. Other programs and services focus on reducing carbon emissions. Seven MMWEC members will offer optional renewable energy programs to their customers in 2022. Under these programs, customers have the option to pay a little extra on their monthly utility bill to allow the light department to invest in more carbon-free energy on their behalf. Several MMWEC members also began participating in the new Air Source Heat Pump

Assessment Program, which is designed to further promote electrification in home heating and cooling. This program allows customers of participating light plants who are interested in installing a heat pump in their home to receive a free air source heat pump assessment. MMWEC, in partnership with the Center for EcoTechnology, its energy audit provider, will schedule a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with a heat pump expert. The assessment will educate the customer on heat pump technology, while ensuring that any heat pump installed in the home is appropriately sized for maximum efficiency. As MMWEC expands its energy efficiency and demand response offerings to its member municipal light plants, it is rebranding its residential and commercial and industrial programs in alignment with the shifting focus toward decarbonization. The new program will be known as NextZero, to better reflect the mission to provide the most efficient, innovative and equitable path to energy decarbonization for their communities. NextZero’s mission emphasizes the critical role that community-owned utilities play in developing the clean energy future. In addition, MMWEC is working with the Center for EcoTechnology on a decar-

bonization project. MMWEC has been selected for a grant to help fund the project, which will help build the tools municipal partners will require to focus decarbonization efforts on measures that provide the most carbon savings for their customer end-uses and help direct resources to where they can help the most. Finally, construction is being completed in 2022 on the new 7 megawatt nameplate capacity solar project. Six MMWEC member utilities are participating in the project, which is being constructed on our Ludlow campus. The project allows MLPs that may not have ideal locations for solar projects within their own communities to add more solar to their power portfolios. In 2022, member utilities will have approximately 55 megawatts of solar in their power portfolios. While COVID-19 may have changed the way we do business, the municipal utilities of Massachusetts and MMWEC continue moving forward toward decarbonization, while ensuring that municipal utility customers receive the reliable, superior service at the lowest cost they have enjoyed for more than 100 years. Ronald C. DeCurzio is the CEO of Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Co., based in Ludlow. To learn more about MMWEC, go online to mmwec.org.

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L16 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

RETAIL

Beat goes on at Gerry’s South Hadley shop marks 75 years of making music

Mandy and James “Jim” Provost are the owners of Gerry’s Music Shop on Lamb Street in South Hadley. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

instrument service and repair, and much more. “Sharing our love for music and seeing our talented students and customers By ELIZABETH LaFOND-COPPEZ makes us so happy,” said James “Jim” Special to The Republican Provost, owner of Gerry’s. “It’s humThe beat goes on and on, thanks to one bling.” Western Massachusetts music shop’s Provost’s mother and father, Anne and dedication to the community for the Norm Provost, bought Gerry’s Music past 75 years. Shop in 1974 from original owner, Gerry Gerry’s Music Shop on Lamb Street Lamothe. Lamothe’s original shop was in South Hadley, owned by James and located on 285 Main St. in Holyoke. Mandy Provost, provides music lesNorm Provost was a clarinet student sons, instruments for rent or purchase, at the age of 12 and soon his passion

for music became so much more than a hobby. His love of music made its way to his five children and 11 grandchildren. Although Jim Provost studied English and political science in college, he worked with his dad on the road, visiting 18 to 20 schools a week. “I traveled throughout Western Massachusetts and Connecticut building relationships with schools, bringing instruments back to be repaired and selling merchandise,” he said. It was also during those weekly school

SEE GERRY’S, PAGE L19

“We just started giving lessons to a 6-year-old violin player and clarinet lessons to a 90-year-old gentleman. To me, music creates a space to be with yourself, and in a moment like no other. In terms of brain development, music allows the bridge between the creative and mathematical.” MANDY PROVOST, GERRY’S MUSIC SHOP, SOUTH HADLEY

“The people who shop here are more than customers. They trust us and what we recommend for them.” At left, Lisa Meyerrose, left, and Jennifer Bates are partners in the InChicShoenique store at the Longmeadow Shops. Above, Bates arranges a shoe display inside the store. (DON TREEGER / THE

JENNIFER BATES, INCHICSHOENIQUE

REPUBLICAN)

RETAIL

2 together prove better than 1 Women’s clothier, shoe shop blend businesses By CHRISTINE WHITE

shoppers who came out in force”, and when they couldn’t shop in stores, bought gift cards. Also key was cooperation from the town, which allowed use of a portion of the parking lot for outdoor dining tents. Longmeadow Shops tenants also include several restaurants like Max Burger, Posto and Ume Asian Bistro. “Nothing in our training prepared us for this pandemic. But by working with our wonderful group of tenants and letting each of them make decisions about how to serve their customers, we did well,” she said.

videos and kept our name option for buying shoes and out there,” Bates said. “We handbags. “I’m starting As one of only three inwere open for a while with slowly,” Bates said of the dependent women’s stores limited hours and curbside new endeavor. at the Longmeadow Shops, pick-up, and later made In general, the LongmeadInChic-Shoenique has not home deliveries.” ow Shops have fared well only survived the worst of “We are so thankful to the during this unusual time. the pandemic, it has contin- customers that supported us “Being a (shopping center ued to thrive. during this difficult time,” and not a mall) saved us,” The store is really two sep- Meyerrose said. said marketing manage, arate businesses operating Looking forward, the Melissa Pevay. in tandem out of one space, owners feel they are doing a “We were able to easily even though it didn’t start good job of providing quality provide curbside pickup, out that way. items. and in the warmer months, Kevin Lennon, with the “I think we did a great job a farmers market and pophelp of Jennifer Bates, in bringing in ‘newness’ this ups like the Batch ice cream opened Shoenique in 1998 in season,” said Meyerrose. truck.” the plaza across Bliss Road. And Shoenique has made the She also noted the support Five years later, the store decision to start an online from “a core group of loyal moved to the Longmeadow Shops. It was around that time that Lisa Meyerrose, then store manager for Chico’s at the shops, became a Shoenique customer and got to know the owners. Eventually, Meyerrose decided to leave Chico’s and strike out on her own, opening the fashionable clothing store, In Chic, just steps away from Shoenique. The two stores shared customers who bought outfits at one and complementary shoes at the other. Over time, they began to talk about merging spaces. Meyerrose explains it this way: “Over the years we said, ‘We have a lot of the same customers. Why don’t we share space and be their one-stop shopping.’” And, in 2016, that’s exactly what they did, cutting their costs in half. In 2018, Lennon retired from Shoenique and Bates took over. “Our big thing is customer service,” Bates said. “The people who shop here are more than customers. They trust us and what we recommend for them.” During a four-month shutdown imposed by the pandemic, social media MiraVista Behavioral Health helped them keep in touch with customers. “We posted photos and Special to The Republican

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Trust is embedded in everything we do and will continue to be the foundation for our continuing future growth and success.

D’Amour CONTINUES FROM PAGE L1

Derrick Turnbull, owner of Autumn Mist Farm, joins fiancée Tracy Allen and children Bailey Howard and Autumn Turnbull at the farm located in Agawam. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

Farm CONTINUES FROM PAGE L1

says Turnbull. Turnbull got his first taste of raising beef cattle for sale when he was 11 and a member of 4-H. He’s been working the family farm ever since. The farm was only a handful of acres and several head of cattle when he was a child. But he’s grown it into the largescale operation it is today. Things were going very well, says Turnbull, until COVID struck in early 2020. “The whole thing fell right on its face. We didn’t do anything for a few months,” he explains. “We just kept on feeding the cattle and didn’t have anywhere to go with our beef.” Until the pandemic swept across the world, Turnbull had been selling his beef to one primary customer, Dole & Bailey, a Woburn-based purveyor that sells meat to colleges and restaurants. But when colleges closed and restaurants stopped serving customers, Turnbull’s business with Dole & Bailey ended. Turnbull was desperate to find a new market for his beef, so he contacted Springfield’s Big Y Foods and invited company representatives to visit his farm. “We reached out to them and told them what we had to offer. Because there were meat shortages across the country, they wanted to come out and talk to us,” says Turnbull. Turnbull also had his all-natural approach to raising cattle going for him as he sought to market his beef further. “Everybody is into the locally grown farm-to-table stuff now. It’s really taken off everywhere across the country and that fit the bill,” says

Tracy Allen checks on Bear at Autumn Mist Farm. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

Turnbull. “It’s been a blessing that Big Y has come into the picture and is now buying our product.” The relationship with Big Y, adds Turnbull, literally saved the family farm. Says Norman Vernadakis, Big Y’s director of meat and seafood, “Derrick truly has a great story, and his product is very good. He uses top quality feed. ...It is one of the best tasting local beef we have.” Autumn Mist fit perfectly into Big Y’s “Fresh & Local” effort, he added. “It’s part of our culture,” said Vernadakis. “We work hard to work with local farms.” Autumn Mist Farm’s business with Dole & Bailey, meanwhile, is slowly coming back, but it’s only 20% of what it used to be. Turnbull’s long-term plan is to continue growing the business along with his relationship with Big Y. He’s also purchased 911 Burgers and Dogs and has plans to grow the landmark Agawam restaurant’s takeout

business and sell his beef direct to consumers there. “I only want to get bigger,” says Turnbull. “But you have to grow in steps, otherwise you can outgrow yourself and you can hurt yourself if you get too big too quick.”

to show up each and every day is something that will always be a source of pride and gratitude for me. Through it all and continuing to this day, we have tried to honor their trust in us by providing a safe environment for them and our customers. We have recognized their efforts and dedication with “thank you” and holiday bonuses to acknowledge their extraordinary efforts, and we have tried to ease the challenges and stresses by reducing their workload and providing for improved worklife balance. The second thing that struck me was the importance of the grocery store in our communities. Time and again, grocery stores play an important role in the everyday lives of our customers and all the more so during power outages and weather events. In much the same way as we all dealt with the pandemic, our stores were the familiar places in an otherwise chaotic and upended world. Our customers were able to interact, albeit through masks sometimes, with our caring employees whom they knew and trusted. Our customers thanked us for our cleaning and sanitizing efforts and for keeping them and our employees safe. We acted early to ramp up our already rigorous sanitation and cleaning procedures. All the while, we reached out to our local farmers and suppliers to be a resource not only to ensure a steady flow of supply but to share with them our best practices and learnings as we all dealt with the effects of the pandemic. Here again, the mutual trust engendered by our partners was

Big Y’s president and CEO Charles L. D’Amour helps distribute holiday meals and toys to families in need at the Springfield Police Training Facility on Dec. 22. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

integral and key to navigating unchartered waters and to continue our regular sources of supply for our customers. None of this happened overnight, of course, but was born of the continuing legacy established for us over 86 years ago. From that small village market, our family company, now led by a team which includes members of the third generation of our family, has grown to include 72 supermarkets located throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. This past year, our pharmacy team has administered over 100,000 vaccines. Our gas and convenience division has grown to 14 locations and operates two car washes. We have expanded our Table & Vine liquor division to include a total of nine locations, stretching from the Berkshires to the Greater Boston area and includes our flagship store in West Springfield. Our Fresh and Local Distribution Center encompasses over 450,000 square feet of state-of-the-art refrigerated and dry distribution space and allows us to partners with over 500 local farmers and producers. And, finally,

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we are embracing the future with our 10,000-square-foot automated robotics micro fulfillment center connected to our Chicopee store housing our MyPicks online ordering group. For 2022, we will be opening our 73rd supermarket in Norwood and beginning construction of two new supermarkets in Uxbridge and Pembroke. We will also be opening a Big Y Express gas-convenience location in Milford, Connecticut, adjacent to our supermarket there. My father would say that, although we sell food, ours is a people business! And as a “People Business”, we couldn’t exist without the trust and caring of our wonderful and highly professional employees, the loyal customers and communities we serve and the farmers and suppliers we depend on. Trust is embedded in everything we do and will continue to be the foundation for our continuing future growth and success. Charles L. D’Amour is president and CEO of Big Y Foods. To learn more about Big Y, go online to bigy.com.

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Derrick Turnbull, owner of Autumn Mist Farm in Agawam, right, works on his new restaurant and retail business with his dad, Gary. Turnbull bought the former 911 Burgers and Dogs restaurant in Agawam, where he will sell his all-natural meats. (FREDERICK GORE PHOTO)

“Everybody is into the locally grown farm-to-table stuff now. It’s really taken off everywhere across the country and that fit the bill. It’s been a blessing that Big Y has come into the picture and is now buying our product.” DERRICK TURNBULL, AUTUMN MIST FARM

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L18 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

Some of the portrait albums from Robert Charles Photography in East Longmeadow.

“(Fly Lugu’s Fredrika Ballard) has slowly grown the number of aircraft based here. It’s about a partnership and her activities are part of an overall system that is helping grow this airport.” CHRISTOPHER WILLENBORG, MANAGER, WESTFIELD-BARNES AIRPORT

(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Fredrika “Rika” Ballard, at left, is the founder of Fly Lugu flight school at Westfield-Barnes Regional Airport. Above, student Colin Flematti, left, and instructor Alexander Hillman go over a checklist before taking off on a flight. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

SUCCESS STORIES

Business is picture perfect Family portraits remain treasured possessions

ture. Everything was shot on film that had to be processed and then presented as photographic prints. “It’s hard to explaining to kids that you’d take a picture and have the film developed, and it would take weeks not hours or seconds,” Susanna Zemba says. “Today, they can take a picture and see it immediately on their phone.” Robert Charles’ business focus is on family and individual portraits. Now more than ever the studio is competing with the notion and reality that people can take their own digital photos and see them immediately. That leaves Zemba and her team explaining the value of a professional photographer and the work they produce. “I fear the new generation will forget about the need for prints and wall portraits and the albums because if you think about it, how many times do you print a picture off your phone? It’s rarely if ever done,” she says. Photos that can be held on one’s hands, hung on walls, framed and kept in albums are what one generation passes on to the next, says Zemba. “My goal when people come to me is to remind them of that need. That’s our legacy,” she says. “That’s

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

SUCCESS STORIES

Flight school stays above COVID clouds Growth helps sustain success of Barnes Airport

By STAASI HEROPOULOS

Special to The Republican

he first time Fredrika “Rika” Ballard flew solo in a small plane above the mountains and clouds, she was 16 and had just earned her pilot’s license.

She was propelled into the sky by her father who was a general aviation pilot, flying small planes as a hobby. Today at age 47 Ballard owns and operates Fly Lugu, a flight and pilot training school based at Westfield Barnes Regional Airport. She founded the school in 2019. With less than a half-dozen students, she was the only flight instructor. Today she has seven instructors including herself, a fleet of seven small aircraft and more than 100 students. Ballard got the school off the ground after a successful 25-year career as a health care executive. “I ended my career in health care, and the next thing I knew I was flying sunrise to sunset seven days a week,” she says. “That wasn’t quite the intent for retirement.” Ballard says there are many reasons her business has seen rapid growth. From the beginning she has been a fulltime, dedicated owner with an upgraded fleet of planes. The need for her service was also apparent. “I think there wasn’t a lot of activity at Westfield-Barnes

Alex Colby, of Exit3 Aviation, opens the door to one of the aircraft he leases to Fly Lugu flight school at Westfield-Barnes Regional Airport. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Airport as far as flight training goes, and I think there was just a desire for it,” she continues. Over the past couple of years Barnes has also seen rapid growth in several areas including fuel sales, revenue, flights and general airport operations. Christopher Willenborg, manager of the municipally-owned airport, credits Fly Lugu with contributing to that success. “Because of their aircraft operations and fuel purchases, their activities are part of the airport’s overall growth,” says Willenborg. “She has slowly grown the number of aircraft based here. It’s about a partnership and her activities are part of an overall system that is helping grow this airport.” Barnes relies in part on federal and state grants to operate. Those grants are based on how well the airport is running and its level of activity. Willenborg says Fly Lugu’s strong performance has helped the airport secure

government funding. “We receive federal and state funding for capital infrastructure projects on the airport. The more aircraft operations you have, the better opportunities for getting grants,” he says. “They’re part of an overall system that helps that effort.” While she started her business shortly before pandemic took hold, Ballard was able to fly above the COVID clouds because at that time, all of her students had completed their classroom activities and oneon-one training with flight instructors. The students were flying solo to complete their training. Because students and instructors weren’t exposed to each other, Fly Lugu didn’t have to ground its program. When Ballard did need to meet with students, she did it virtually, via FaceTime or Zoom. “I’d meet the students at the airport outside, make sure they were good to go and

then they’d get in the plane by themselves and fly solo,” she explains. “We didn’t have any new students at the time. People that wanted to learn how to fly had to wait until the pandemic limitations were lifted.” Aviation is still a male-dominated field as 93% of pilots nationwide are men, Ballard notes. But, women have been drawn to her school, and half her students are now female. She believes that bodes well for the future. Ballard has graduated more than three dozen students. They are going on to become commercial, business, private or recreational pilots. While many of them have different career trajectories, there is one common theme among those who want to fly. “The freedom to fly and be above the Earth is definitely something a lot of people want to do,” she says. “It’s also a career path for a lot of people. You can make a good amount of money as a pilot.”

mong Susanna Zemba’s many prized possessions is a treasured picture of her grandmother. Her “nonna” had traveled from Italy to Western Massachusetts to celebrate Zemba’s wedding. “My father-in-law took the most beautiful picture of my nonna with her smile that I’ll never forget. That’s how you remember your family,” says Zemba. Zemba is in the business of making and selling memories as co-owner of Robert Charles Photography in East Longmeadow. Back when her father-inlaw, Robert Charles Zemba, founded the business more than 30 years ago, digital cameras weren’t in the pic-

SEE PICTURE, PAGE L19

“My goal when people come to me is to remind them of that need. That’s our legacy. That’s what we’re leaving behind for our children and our children’s children — pictures of us. That’s who we are. They’re treasured pictures.” SUSANNA ZEMBA, ROBERT CHARLES PHOTOGRAPHY

Susanna Zemba is the chief experience ambassador at Robert Charles Photography in East Longmeadow. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

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Picture CONTINUES FROM PAGE L18

Scott Pemrick working on a bass guitar at Gerry’s Music Shop in South Hadley. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Gerry’s CONTINUES FROM PAGE L16

visits, he met his wife, Mandy, who was a music teacher. They are a match in musical heaven, as Mandy dual majored in cello performance and music education at the University of Connecticut. “I started playing violin in third-grade and switched to cello the following year because that’s what was offered,” she said. “But a high school field trip to see the musical program at UConn is what inspired me to earn my degrees.” Jim and Mandy got married, and they have four children, who all learned to play instruments and enjoy singing. In fact, their son, Ben, is taking guitar lessons again, and their daughter, Erin, is back to learning the piano. “To me, that’s the best example of why music is so valuable,” Mandy Provost said. “It’s a gift that lasts a lifetime, and something you can always go back to.” Eventually, the ownership and responsibility of Gerry’s Music Shop transitioned to Jim Provost, the youngest of Norm and Anne’s five children, and his wife. “All of my parents’ hard work was passed to us, their kids,” Jim Provost added. Today, Gerry’s serves 265 schools throughout Massachusetts and Connecticut. They have a special instrument rental program for many different types of instruments, a vast collection of sheet music for sale, and a unique repair and service department. Jim Provost says they are noticing a trend among those in music to replace rather than repair instruments. “We prefer to help our customers repair rather than replace since we have talented repair technicians available here to physically repair instruments,” he said. But Gerry’s current instrument repair technicians will eventually retire, and it’s difficult to find employees with this specialized skill. Early this spring, Jim Provost will visit two schools in the Mid-

Andy’s

The strings section at Gerry’s Music Shop in South Hadley. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

a band is so valuable. “You’re a member of a team, and it teaches how to do many things at the same time,” he said. “You read, count, sing, tap your foot, press your fingers so many skills are used at the same time, and they can help you in other stages in your life.” Jim Provost believes the success of their business is based on relationships with families and customers, and the amazing staff and employees they’ve had over the years. “The connections our staff makes with customers is invaluable,” he added. Jim Provost, Gerry’s Music And their deep connecShop tions in the community have connected Gerry’s to musiwest that specialize in musical cal superstars. Gerry’s was instrument repair to recruit able to assist the late Yusef students to work at Gerry’s Lateef ’s family sell his prized this summer. instruments that were part “We want to introduce a of his estate and the money student to our shop as instru- stayed with the family. ment repair is a lost art and Lateef was a Grammy skill,” he explained. Award-winning jazz musician Gerry’s also has nine who played the tenor saxotalented music teachers who phone, flute, oboe, bassoon offer lessons in piano, guitar, and other wind instruments drums, violin, flute and more. around the world. He earned Piano and guitar lessons are his doctorate in education very popular, with piano being from the University of Massaa good first instrument to chusetts Amherst and taught learn. “We just started giving at both UMass and Hamplessons to a 6-year-old violin shire College. player and clarinet lessons to “One of Yusef ’s instrua 90-year-old gentleman,” ments, a bass flute, was sold Mandy Provost added. “To to the great Jeff Coffin, saxome, music creates a space to phone player from the Dave be with yourself, and in a mo- Matthews Band,” Jim Provost ment like no other. In terms said. “And we’ve become of brain development, music friends.” allows the bridge between the For more information about creative and mathematical.” Gerry’s, go online to the webHer husband agrees, saying site, gerrysmusicshop.com, that playing an instrument in or call 413-534-7402.

“You’re a member of a team, and it teaches how to do many things at the same time. You read, count, sing, tap your foot, press your fingers - so many skills are used at the same time, and they can help you in other stages in your life.”

your TV and a comfortable mattress (on a solid wood bed frame) to lay your head CONTINUES FROM PAGE L10 on at night are just a couple was happy to pass on to us of examples of how we bring and hired another employcomfort to your home,” Finn ee who also has furniture said. experience. This made the The vast majority of the transition of a new location stores’ inventory is Ameria lot smoother and definitely can-made. “We want to carry helped set us up for success,” products that are built to Finn said. last and that can be passed “As for the effects of the down,” she said. pandemic, we feel very forUnfinished bookcases, step tunate to be in the furniture stools, Adirondack chairs, and home decor industry. tables and coat racks are Because people were home made in Andy’s workshop in all of the time due to the Greenfield, all from patterns pandemic, they had time Conti used 40 years ago. to think about redecorating “Having unfinished products and making their home cozy. built locally and carrying on The money they saved from his legacy is really important not being able to travel, they to us,” Finn said. invested into their homes,” He also passed on to his she said. family a strong work ethPeople always need home ic. “He put his all into this furnishings. “Your home is business, and we are happy your sanctuary, and a lot of to do the same. He was never people take great pride in afraid to try new things,” taking care of their homes. Finn said, noting that Conti’s Comfortable places to sit, daughter, Gloria Easton, pretty pictures to look at on still mentors the business your walls, a stand to hold owners.

The family of businesses is an example of the success of diversification. “We have always tried to keep up on current trends. For a long time, we only carried country items, but have since brought in a mix of traditional and contemporary items as well,” Finn said. “For 40 years, we have listened to our customers’ feedback and have adjusted accordingly. I think that’s what makes a great furniture business — one that’s willing to try new things and evolve.” The four businesses combined have 20 employees and offer 0% financing for 12 months. Asked about further growth in 2022, Finn said, “We are always open to new possibilities! For now we are just focused daily on providing excellent products and the customer service that Andy’s is known for.” For more information, visit the websites, andysoak.com and homespunbyandys. com.

what we’re leaving behind for our children and our children’s children — pictures of us. That’s who we are. They’re treasured pictures.” The pandemic had little impact on the business because most of the work they do is with families and individuals, according to Zemba. Those pictures can be taken safely, outdoors with everyone — or at least the photographer and the subjects — at least 6 feet apart. Their business doesn’t rely on indoor gatherings like weddings and parties, the types of events that COVID canceled. In fact, Zemba says, the pandemic reminded people how important it is to capture family images. “The pandemic gave them a reason to remember why family is important,” Zemba says. “We’ve done some beautiful four-generation portraits over this past year because people have been at home with the grandparents and the kids. Grandma and grandpa have become a very big part of their lives and now they’re part of the portraits.” Robert Charles also has a

A look inside the Robert Charles Photography studio in East Longmeadow. At left is a photo of Robert Charles Zemba, the founder of Robert Charles Photography. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

robust commercial business, photographing corporate executives and their products. That line is doing well and represents future growth as companies want to present a picture-perfect image. “They want to up their game in social media and have their websites, Facebook pages and other social platforms look a little more professional,” says Zem-

Watkins

of being part of Mass General Brigham is the help we receive as we respond to changCONTINUES FROM PAGE L11 es in health care. Our Safe of their dedication, commit- Care Commitment provides ment and passion in providthe safest possible setting for ing care or working behind our patients, visitors and staff. the scenes to support those at We remain focused on doing the bedside. Staff are tired, everything possible to ensure but we are here for the com- we continue to serve our munity and ready to serve all patients and community. who need us. I am committed to ensuring Patients are returning to that Cooley Dickinson strives our facilities after having to be the best community delayed their care. They are health care system in the sicker, and the demand for nation. The ingredients are care is significantly highall here. Our doctors, nurses, er. Across the health care and clinical staff are among industry, we face capacity the best. Our facilities and challenges and staffing programs are excellent. Our shortages. mix of inpatient, outpatient, One of the many benefits and community programs

ba. “We’re really working hard at offering that for our clients.” Robert Charles is striving to offer its clients a full range of visual services, specializing not only in photography but now videography, augmented reality and virtual reality. Giving customers a “full immersive experience” will play a major role in growing the company.

serve our community well. Patients entrust us with all aspects of their health care, whether it is a focus on wellness, healing or end-of-life transition. Our role in all of these aspects of care — and life — is humbling and profound. I know the pandemic will continue to challenge all of us in 2022. I also know we will emerge stronger as an organization and as a region. The sense of caring and working together makes this region a unique — and wonderful — place. Dr. Lynette N. Watkins is president and CEO of Cooley Dickinson Health. To learn more about Cooley Dickinson, go online to CooleyDickinson.org.

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In tomorrow’s OUTLOOK BUSINESS MONDAY section: Mayor Domenic J. Sarno shares his outlook for 2022

Outlook 2022 M

| SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

Joe Manning loads apples during the cider-making process to be sent to the press at the Carr’s Ciderhouse’s Preservation Orchard in Hadley in November.

Carr’s Ciderhouse received an emergency farm loan to build this farm stand on its land in Hadley amid the pandemic. The owners say the stand proved a “lifeline” to keep their business afloat. Center, the apples grown at Preservation Orchard include some traditional varieties from England along with those long popular here in New England. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

(DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

AGRICULTURE

Ciderhouse rules Hadley orchard serves up hard ciders, vinegars

By JANICE BEETLE

Special to The Republican

armers markets were a predominant sales tool for Nicole Blum and Jonathan Carr, the co-owners of Carr’s Ciderhouse and Preservation Orchard.

Jonathan Carr and Nicole Blum, co-owners of Carr’s Ciderhouse in Hadley, sit in the apple press building at the Preservation Orchard. The couple began their business by planting some 1,200 trees in the orchard in 2006. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

When COVID-19 shuttered them in 2020, the husband-and-wife team panicked, then pivoted. Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) arranged

LEGACY BUSINESS

Caring for animals since 1892 5th generation of Young family leads company

A variety of cider vinegars are among the products for sale at the farm shop at Carr’s Ciderhouse. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

for the cider house to receive an emergency farm loan to build a farm stand on its land in Hadley, opening a door for survival as well as for future growth. “The stand turned into a lifeline,” Blum says. “People showed up for local agriculture and totally supported us at our new

SEE CIDERHOUSE, PAGE M9

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Mi Tierra beats fire, pandemic By ELIzAbETh RomáN

By LoRI STAbILE

Special to The Republican

eroman@repub.com

Back in 1892, Mary Ida and Wilbur F. Young felt there must be a better way to treat sore and lame horses. Blistering agents were used to stimulate circulation in horse’s legs, but were harsh and uncomfortable for the animals, and not gentle to their skin. “They determined back then that many of the means for taking care of horses were not as friendly as they could be,” said Jaime D. McKinley, company president, in a recent interview. Mary Ida Young, a herbologist and animal lover, used her knowledge about natural healing to make the first Absorbine veterinary liniment for horses, a concoction she created

As children, Estela Saravia and Javier Ayala spent their afternoons and evenings surrounded by cooks, waitresses and customers as their parents established what today is a thriving Mexican restaurant, Mi Tierra. “People always come in and say they remember me running around the restaurant when I was little,” said Saravia, now 16. “This was a dream my husband

SEE YOUNG, PAGE M10

Mary Ida Young and her husband, Wilbur F. Young, started the W.F. Young Co. in Springfield in 1892. An herbalist, Young created the first incarnation of Absorbine products in her bathtub. (W.F. YOUNG PHOTO)

SEE MI TIERRA, PAGE M19

Big E grows #FairStrong

I EugENE J. CAssIdy

HAVE JUST COMPETED MY term as chairman of our industry trade association, the International Association of Fairs and Expositions. This group spans the world with more than 2,000 member fairs and associate members who conduct business

with fairs, such as e-ticketing companies, insurance providers, entertainers and performers, their agents and artist representatives, the Coca-Cola Co., PepsiCo, Anheuser Busch and other major food and beverage corporations, agriculture

SEE CASSIDY, PAGE M9

An order of mar y tierra fajitas from Mi Tierra Restaurant. Above, chef Juan Perez prepares avocados in the kitchen. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

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WMass tourism tracks resilient road

OMING OFF TOUGH LOWS in calendar year 2020, our region’s tourism industry showed great resilience as leisure travelers drove a vigorous rebound in the second half of 2021. With many COVID restrictions gradually being eased in late spring, we saw very solid attendance returning at our major attractions by midyear and hotel occupancy grew as well. Looking ahead to 2022, I feel our hospitality sector is positioned to continue building momentum. It is important to review how impactful travel and tourism is as a major economic driver here in Western Massachusetts. Pre-pandemic, 2019 annual spend-

Gov. Charlie Baker gives Santa Claus a hug as Kathy Tobin, left, state Rep. Bud L. Williams, D-Springfield, and Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno look on at Bright Nights’ opening night festivities on Nov. 24.

ing related to leisure travelers, group visitors, athletics and conventions was over $826 million. In turn, those expenditures supported roughly 8,200 jobs with a payroll of $248 million, generated $66.3 million in local and state tax revenues, and strengthened the general economic fabric of the region. “Human-oriented travel,” a term used to describe the pent-up collective urge of many people to reconnect with family and friends — long held apart by the pandemic — drove much of our regional tourism business in 2021. As the population center of western New England, Western Mass naturally served as a place for many happy reunions. And, while they were here,

Mary Kay Wydra these visitors enjoyed the region’s abundant commercial and natural attributes in a big way. Many of our largest attractions, such as Yankee Candle Village, the Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum, the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, Six Flags New England and MGM Springfield reported attendance that

SEE WYDRA, PAGE M17

“We’ve already seen how truly resilient, resourceful, and resurgent our visitor-sector businesses can be. I’m more than bullish on our region, and I’d never, ever bet against the incredible people who make up the hospitality industry of this special place called Western Mass.”

(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Mary Kay Wydra, president, Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Vibrations are good for return of concerts Cautious optimism abounds for all entertainment venues

‘T By GEORGE LENKER

Special to The Republican

o be or not to be? That is the question,” is a familiar Shakespearean quote. But for actors, musicians and other performers, the real question these days is whether or not they’ll be able to act, sing or perform.

(THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

musicians $276,406 in back shifting again for the moment, he said. “We’ve had shows wages to offset the money they the past year’s experience has where more than 30% of the would have earned for playing prepared them to manage ticket holders don’t attend. canceled concerts this season. whatever comes in 2022. We’ve had to scale back on the Musicians from the Second Line Parade march through the “Hopefully we’ll execute our number of shows that we can streets of downtown Springfield on their way to the main stage The orchestra will perform two concerts, April 22 and May 13, winter shows successfully, but present.” at Stearns Square for the kickoff of the Springfield Jazz & we predict we’ll truly be getTo this end, Olsen said he Roots Festival on Aug. 14. The festival was among the outdoor ordered by the NLRB. But for the most part, the ting back in the groove in the has scaled back his expectaconcerts that returned to the region during the past year. arts and entertainment scene spring,” he said. “Then again, tions. He noted, however, that (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO) hinges on how much COVID it’s a changed world, so there omicron is peaking at a time continues to wreak havoc. Jim are things ahead we can only (January) that is usually pretty but luckily Neill, publicist for Northampimagine at this point.” quiet for live music. But he ton’s Iron Horse Entertainment Jim Olsen, whose Signature added that it’s very difficult to an underGroup, said that while there Sounds company runs the plan anything for the remainstudy saved were challenges last year, most gamut between the massive der of the winter, so his hopes the day. of the customers had a good Green River Festival and small lie in improving conditions in However, attitude about protocols. shows at the Parlor Room in springtime. recent break“It helped us appreciate them Northampton, said that while “I’m an optimist, but I think through casin new ways. There were strug- 2021 was better than 2020, the we’re going to be in much betes scuttled Danny Eaton gles but also bright moments shifting sands of COVID variter shape once the weather imrehearsals and it made us appreciate ants makes it difficult to plan. proves and we’re able to bring for “Betty & much of what we had taken for “We book our shows months back outdoor music again,” he the Patch.” before they happen, and all of said. “This is going to be a great “The upshot is that the show granted before,” Neill said. Neill added that while omithis uncertainty makes it very year for outdoor shows and has been postponed until June, cron has his company downdifficult to predict anything,” festivals.” and we will be dark in January and part of February,” Eaton said. Being a theater that produces plays, the Majestic is IT’S SIMPLE! subject to the Actors’ Equity Association union rules about PICK 4, 5, 6 COVID, and the restrictions or MORE SHOWS are more stringent than most municipal rules. The equity THEN, CALL THE SUBSCRIPTION SERIES PACKAGE protocols require all performBUSHNELL BOX OFFICE ers to be fully vaccinated and AT 860-987-5900 AND have a negative PCR test done CLAIM YOUR SEATS TODAY! choose from these before any work begins. Then (4 show minimum) weekly testing continues along 8 exciting shows : with a daily temperature check and short survey that must be completed. Eaton added that his theMy Fair Lady Stomp Mar. 8-13, 2022 May 27-29, 2022 ater also requires audience members to be vaccinated and show proof of vaccination as blue man group hamilton well as be masked at all times Mar. 18-20, 2022 jun. 22-26 & 28, 2022 except when eating or drinksponsored by ing in the cafe. When looking mean girls to the future, safety is his top sep. 27-oct. 2, 2022 Dear evan hansen priority, Eaton said. JIM OLSEN, SIGNATURE Mar. 29-Apr. 3, 2022 “How long any of this lasts SOUNDS hadestown remains to be seen,” he said. mar. 7-12, 2023 “We’ll continue to do whatevpretty woman: realistic — about 2022. er we need to do to keep both the musical “We have a big summer of audience members and our co-sponsored by apr. 26-may 1, 2022 outdoor shows across upstate performers and staff safe and New York and Western Masthe theater operating.” sachusetts, and I think by June Of course, not all troubles the concert industry should be within the regional arts scene rolling along nicely,” he said. have been totally caused by “Indoors may still be tricky the pandemic. Along with for the foreseeable future, but having shows canceled due 2021 proved that we can do to COVID, musicians in the shows indoors safely with the Springfield Symphony Orchesright precautions.” tra have been embroiled in a Danny Eaton, producing dilong battle with the orchestra’s rector for the Majestic Theatre board over a new contract. in West Springfield, said that The musicians union has although 2021 was better than been without a contact for 18 2020 — when the theater was months. 860-987-5900 | bushnell.org dark most of that year — there The National Labor RelaAll programs, castings, dates, and times are subject to change. Choose Your Own package prices vary depending on performance date, seating, and show, but start at $119 (4 shows). Pricing does not include were challenges. A COVID case tions Board recently ordered fees. Photo: Shavey Brown, Mark Aldrich, Shereen Ahmed (center), William Michals and Colin Anderson in The Lincoln Center Theater Production of Lerner & Loewe’s MY FAIR LADY - Photo by © Joan Marcus almost upended one show, the SSO board to pay its

“I’m an optimist, but I think we’re going to be in much better shape once the weather improves and we’re able to bring back outdoor music again. This is going to be a great year for outdoor shows and festivals.”

e s o o Ch

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The COVID-19 pandemic continues to throw monkey wrenches into the mechanisms of the arts and entertainment everywhere, and the Pioneer Valley is no exception. After a dismal 2020, the Western Massachusetts arts scene looked with a cautiously optimistic eye in 2021, but the year had mixed results. Now, once again, artists and other entertainment entrepreneurs are eyeing 2022 with hope, albeit tempered with a dose of pragmatism. John Sanders, a partner and talent buyer with DSP Shows, a national company that books and promotes shows from Springfield north to Greenfield, said that 2021 was “quite a roller coaster.” “By the time June rolled around, we were opening up outdoors at full capacity for shows in July and August and preparing to open up indoors with no restrictions come September. Then (the delta variant) hit in July and August, and we had to quickly pivot to requiring proof of vaccination and masks for all indoor shows and even some outdoor shows,” he said. “The good news was we did get a lot of shows in for the second half of 2021.” Still, the virus also handcuffed DSP at times when band members tested positive and had to cancel or postpone dates, which made things difficult. Now, the omicron variant is complicating things further. “I’m in the middle of postponing or canceling most of our shows in January and early February as we are seeing a huge surge in cases,” Sanders said. “While it seems that most cases of omicron come with mild sickness, we are still seeing a strain on our local health care infrastructure as hospitalizations are going way up as well. We don’t want to add to that strain and hopefully by postponing shows to later in winter or spring, we’ll be able to move shows to a time when cases and hospitalizations are much lower than they (were) in January.” Despite these setbacks, Sanders remains hopeful — but

Veteran musicians from the Art Blakey Jazz Messengers perform with well-known musicians at the Art Blakey Centennial Celebration on Oct. 2 at the Academy of Music in Northampton as part of the Northampton Jazz Festival. Area promoters and venues are optimistic 2022 will see the return of increasing numbers of live music performances throughout the region.

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | M3

Jackie Farrow, of Indian Orchard, skates with 6-year-old Jeremi Thibeault at MGM Springfield’s outdoor skating rink in November.

Above, MGM Springfield president Chris Kelley says it was “a pretty dynamic year” for the casino. At left, people play the slot machines at MGM Springfield in August. The casino brought in nearly $198 million from slots in 2021, compared to just over $49 million from table games. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLI-

(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

CAN FILE PHOTOS)

CASINO GAMBLING

Sports betting crucial to casinos’ future

By Jim Kinney

jkinney@repub.com

ambling revenue numbers are strong and MGM Springfield is reopening its remaining attractions closed by COVID-19, but difficulties hiring staff and the state’s lack of legalized sports betting worry the people running the $960 million resort casino.

“It was a pretty dynamic year,” said Chris Kelley, president of MGM Springfield and chief operations officer for the Northeast Group of MGM Resorts International. MGM saw the resumption of 24/7 operations at its hotel in December, the return of its poker room in October and the return of concerts to its plaza last summer. The long-awaited Wahlburgers restaurant opened on the property in May. “So we saw some really really positive progress as we move into the new year,” Kelley said. Kelley, whose responsibilities include the Springfield property and its cousin prop-

erty in Yonkers, New York, was quick to point out that MGM Springfield only opened in August 2018, and the entire property is just 3½ years old. There haven’t been many “normal” days in that time. COVID forced the complete shutdown of all three Massachusetts casinos from March to July in 2020. Afterward the casinos were allowed to reopen in fits and starts, with capacity restrictions and mask mandates at various times and certain amenities and table games shut down. A city mask mandate that took effect at the start of the year is still in place, and it includes MGM Springfield. But now MGM is reopening

MGM Springfield gross gaming revenue $30,000,000 $25,000,000 $20,000,000 $15,000,000

$10,000,000 $5,000,000 $0

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

2018

2019

2020

2021

Gambling revenues at MGM Springfield have mostly recovered from the pandemic shutdown of mid-2020. The resort casino opened in August 2018. (THE REPUBLICAN GRAPHIC)

as COVID, staffing and consumer demand allow, Kelley said. For the first time in two years, MGM is reopening access for those under 21 to its South End Market food hall. The South End Market is also getting a new offering, Macho

Taco, in partnership with Agawam operator Jose Diaz. Top Golf and Tap Bowling were set to reopen this month, and Costa Pizza Counter bar will be open on weekends. Kelley said MGM is considering options for two retail spaces, Indian Motorcycle and Kringle

Candle. Bernardston-based Kringle has pulled out of its retail space. So MGM will find something new. MGM itself ran the Indian Motorcycle apparel store. Kelley said MGM could simply reopen or it could find a new concept.

MGM has redesigned its slot machine areas and table games to allow more space in between players. It reduced the number of slot machine playing positions significantly, from 2,500 to 1,600. There were 90 gaming tables when the casino opened and just 50 today. Whether that setup stays or goes depends on customer feedback and market conditions. “Ultimately we respond to the interests of the guest,” Kelley said. “It’s something we listen attentively to.” Despite the lingering pandemic, MGM Springfield just had its best December, taking in $22.2 million from slot machines and table games, according to figures released last month by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. That beat the numbers from pre-pandemic 2018, when gross gambling revenue was $21.6 million, and 2019, when it was $18.95 million. Gaming revenue was $11.4 million a year ago in December 2020, when COVID restrictions SEE CASINO, PAGE M14

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“A lot of other restaurant owners might not have confidence in doing what I did. I’ve been working on it for two years now. ... My plan is to continue creating more restaurant opportunities for diners, and we have the experience to do it.” FEDERICO MENDIOLA, OWNER GARCIA’S, NEWLY OPENED IN AMHERST

DINING

Loyal customers keep restaurants cooking Some take leap of faith to open new locations

By KEITH O’CONNOR

Special to The Republican

estaurants everywhere have been feeling the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic for more than 21 months. But that isn’t stopping two Western Massachusetts restaurant owners who have faith in the market and are expanding their businesses.

THE REPUBLICAN; HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

And, while restaurant sales improved from the early months of the pandemic, business conditions remain delivery operation. year at the most,” Turan exfar from normal for many of Similar to finding materials plained. “And, we had enough the Bay State’s eating estabfor construction, there were income from our pizzas to lishments, Clark said. also supply chain issues in offset the increased price of “It’s getting harder for terms of some foods, according wings without passing it on to restaurants to remain profitto Turan. He saw the price of customers.” able based on their costs with chicken wings, for example, According to Steve Clark, almost all operators indicattriple. chief operating officer at the ing that their total food costs This is the bar at Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar in AmWorking with multiple Massachusetts Restaurant (as a percent of sales) are herst. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN) distributors helped him in Association, the starts and higher than they were prior finding the fresh products stops of COVID recovery to the COVID-19 outbreak,” few cents here and there so the they needed, he said. have impacted the restaurant he said. “Also, a majority of extra money to pay those bills “You can’t always raise your industry in Massachusetts operators indicate that their SEE RESTAURANTS, PAGE M6 comes from somewhere.” prices, maybe once or twice a probably more than any other. For Ridvan “Ryan” Turan, owner of Falls Pizza, a family business in Chicopee, COVID-19 isn’t on the top of his mind right now. He is also taking his own leap of faith with a new restaurant. He was moving in A go-to guide for your automotive needs. and setting up shop in January at 185 Grove St., relocating from 103 Main St., where he’d operated Falls Pizza since purchasing the business in 2004. “I am so excited about purchasing our own building where we will now have seating and a liquor license to serve our longtime loyal Celebrating 41 years in business customers,” Turan said. “It’s been a really hard time for us (preparing for the move). Getting materials for construction, especially coolers which took three months to get, has been difficult. But Ask About Our we’ve made it through thanks RIDVAN TURAN, OWNER, to my team and friends in the FALLS PIZZA, CHICOPEE construction business who have been helping us.” “While we have a very local, In the midst of the pandemMany Makes And Models loyal employee base, I did have ic, Turan said he sat down Including SUVs & Trucks several people leave because with his employees and told they could make more money them their customers had 76 Boston Road, Springfield sitting at home with the govsupported Falls Pizza for ernment checks they were remany years and how he beceiving,” he said. “For the past lieved it was “our turn to help c hr i sa u t os al es. ne t 14 months the price of food has the community.” really been out of control, and “Staffing was sometimes a it was difficult getting some challenge, and we lost some products like steaks, which employees,” he said. “But, were scarce.” our doors were always open “You have to do something to for our customers thanks to stay alive and pay your bills at family who pitched workthe end of the month,” Mendi- ing extra hours. In fact, our ola added. “But you don’t want business actually increased to increase the menu price, say during COVID.” Falls Pizza FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED SINCE 1962 up to $2.50 on each item, but a focused on a takeout and

“I am so excited about purchasing our own building where we will now have seating and a liquor license to serve our longtime loyal customers.”

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Federico Mendiola is bullish on the restaurant industry. By early 2020, he already had three locations for his Frontera Grill — Fresh Mex chain open in Chicopee, Springfield and Manchester, Connecticut. All endured the challenges of pandemic, and in November, he opened a fourth location called Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar, offering the same notable cuisine that drives the popularity of his other restaurants. “A lot of other restaurant owners might not have confidence in doing what I did. I’ve been working on it for two years now,” Mendiola explained. “Fortunately, I’ve been blessed with working hard and earning the support of the local community. My plan is to continue creating more restaurant opportunities for diners, and we have the experience to do it.” The restaurateur believes he has the best of both worlds in Amherst with the large college population, including from nearby Northampton, creating both a customer base for the restaurant as well as a possible workforce in a marketplace where it is difficult to find help today. “When we opened our doors in Amherst the reception was incredible — students, alumni, locals,” he said. “It was wonderful to see.” Aware of a greater market for vegan and gluten-free options, Mendiola added them to the menu in Amherst. Garcia’s features seven gluten-free and seven vegan options such as “Unreal Nachos” and “Impossible Burrito.” “People feel safer coming in with these options, and my chef has come up with some vegan creations, which I have never had in my life, that taste just like chicken or beef,” he said. Like restaurants across the region and the nation, staffing and supply chain proved the greatest challenges that emerged as COVID swept around the world, said Mendiola.

Above, Chris Osgood, general manager of the Tavern Restaurant in Westfield, says, “The past year was exciting for us because we began to see more people feeling comfortable about coming into the restaurant for a meal.” At left, a pizza in the oven at Falls Pizza in Chicopee. (DON TREEGER /

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M6 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

DINING

Puerto Rican eatery celebrates food, family

By Elizabeth Román

eroman@repub.com

hen a family friend handed them the keys to a small restaurant on the corner of Franklin Street in Westfield and offered to sell them the business, Ismael and Carmen Santiago took a risk to fulfill a dream. More than 20 years later, Santiago’s Family Restaurant continues to thrive — surviving a recession and a pandemic and with hopes that a new generation of Santiagos will continue the legacy.

“This was really his dream‚” Carmen Santiago said in Spanish, sitting at a small table in the restaurant’s dining room. “He always wanted to open a business where he could perform music. When this opportunity came up he thought we could do it combining his music and the dishes I learned to make with my grandmother, my mother and my aunts in Puerto Rico. I gave him one year to make it work, and here we still are today.” The couple’s story starts about 60 years ago when they were children living in Corozal, a town in Puerto Rico. “We have known each other since fourth grade. He was my neighbor, and we would walk to school together,” she said. Inseparable since they were children, the couple eventually married and decided they wanted to start their family on the mainland. With little knowledge of the English language or what would lie ahead, they got on a plane and landed in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1968. A year later the couple chose to move to Holyoke, where they lived for 11 years. After meeting some work friends who lived in Westfield and attended St. Mary’s Parish, the couple relocated to the Whip City city in 1979 and raised their six children, Ismael, Alexa, Beatriz, Zenaida, Josué and Marcos Santiago. “The restaurant and the church is where we spent most of our time,” Carmen Santiago said. “All of my children and now even my grandchildren have been involved with the restaurant. Everyone in the community knows us and has supported us all these years.” Agma Sweeney, a founding member of the Westfield

At far left, from left, Marcos Santiago and his parents Carmen Santiago and Ismael Santiago run Santiago’s Family Restaurant. The couple opened their Westfield eatery 20 years ago, and Marcos Santiago plans to keep it going as they retire. At left, Marcos Santiago prepares shrimp mofongo in the kitchen. Above, a fried plantain basket filled with seafood. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

“Preparing food has become my love language. I have seen how my parents have used this restaurant and food to bring people together, and that’s what I want, too.”

waitressing and singing in the restaurant with his father, Marcos Santiago and his mother were in the kitchen. No matter what other job he has had, he Marcos Santiago, Santiago’s Family Restaurant always spent some nights cooking at the restaurant. Spanish American Association, really made Westfield our sibling that has spent the most “I just enjoy spending time said the Santiagos are respect- home, and our children and time in the restaurant recently. with my family and being in ed and beloved in Westfield for even grandchildren have as As a child he would spend a lot the restaurant all these years, their work ethic and authentic well,” Sweeney said. of time with his mother, first seeing how they have been Puerto Rican cuisine, as well as Historically in the 4% or 5% watching her and then helping able to affect so many people their celebration of family and range, Latinos in Westfield her cook the traditional dishes. through food and music and community. have grown to be 9.5% of the “He always loved being in an environment that feels like The story of Puerto Ricans population, according to the the kitchen. I bought him these you are sitting in your aunt’s arriving in Westfield parallels 2020 U.S. census. little books with recipes for kitchen having a meal,” he those in Holyoke, Springfield “Many of us came here kids and he would make cake said. “Before the pandemic, and Hartford, Sweeney said. and stayed here to raise our and cookies,” Carmen Santiago my mom and I would be in the Families arrived from the families, and now our children said. kitchen, my sisters would be island in the 1950s and ’60s are raising their children in While his sisters did the waiting tables and my dad was looking for work and housing. Westfield,” Sweeney said. “It Many worked in the tobacco is a small community, but we fields or factories while some have grown to love Westfield established small businesses in and make it our home. Now the area. seeing Marcos at the restau“We are now on the third and rant continuing his family’s fourth generation of Puerto work it’s wonderful.” Ricans living in Westfield. We Marcos Santiago is the are a small group, but we have youngest in the family, and the

SEE SANTIAGO, PAGE M19

Live. Local. Listen. Reach our Growing Latino Community! We will help you get your message across.

Restaurants CONTINUES FROM PAGE M4

Federico Mendiola, center, owner of Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant & Bar in Amherst, with family members and partners Elvis Garcia, left, and Juventina Garcia. Mendiola, who operates the Frontera Grill restaurants, opened Garcia’s late last year. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

just surviving.” While some restaurants saw a return of indoor diners this summer, Singh said it is “very slow right now and no one want to eat indoors.” And, during the summer, there was no space available to the restaurant to offer outdoor dining. The restaurant manager noted that at one time 60% of their business was dine-in, with 40% takeout. Today those numbers are 20% dine-in and 80% takeout. “We are doing just enough takeout to survive. On top of that we’ve seen a 40% increase in our food costs, some of which we have to pass on to customers,” Singh said. He has been talking to city officials and looking to the federal government for help, but has received none to date. As for the future, Singh’s answer wasn’t all that encouraging. “Who knows? But I think we will be around for a little while,” he said. Chris Osgood, manager, Tavern Restaurant in Westfield, is somewhat more optimistic. “The past year was exciting

for us because we began to see more people feeling comfortable about coming into the restaurant for a meal,” Osgood said. Still, there were challenges. “Getting product was a problem and dealing with high prices on meats like chicken, beef tenderloin, prime rib as well as some seafood. We were seeing extremely high prices for some of these items and we had to balance menu options requested by our customers with offering them at a reasonable price,” Osgood said, noting it proved impossible not to raise the price on some menu items. Other than the challenge of balancing how many or how few servers to have on a given day when business “began ramping up again,” Osgood noted they have a “very loyal staff ” who have remained with the Tavern. With only two months into the new year, Osgood is still holding his breath for a better year. “I hope things keep going in the right direction,” he said.

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total occupancy costs are higher than they were prior to the outbreak. Wholesale food prices posted the highest 12-month increase since 1980, in addition to historically high labor costs, as the labor situation in the restaurant industry is well documented.” Still, the industry continues to try and find a path to profitability. While consumer confidence around indoor dining increased last year, especially before the omicron surge hit, people still had holiday gatherings. Large corporate holiday events, though, did not return. “Outdoor dining remains one of the few positives to come of the pandemic and the state, municipalities and operators are looking to make sure it becomes permanent. Restaurants are also getting creative by incorporating cocktails to go into the takeout experience,” Clark said. He noted that if Congress can find a way to replenish the Restaurant Revitalization Fund established as part of the federal American Rescue Plan Act, the more than two-thirds of applicants who were not funded in the last round of the grants can get back on level ground with their counterparts who did receive funding and provide vital relief to those operators that are holding on. One restaurant “holding on” is Panjabi Tadka on Main Street in Springfield. Manager Malkit Singh offered a dour look on the restaurant industry. “Our biggest challenge is finding help. No one wants to work. I’m lucky, and we have a good crew who are staying with us — two servers and four kitchen staff,” Singh said. “But it is hard finding any additional staff to help out. “It’s been tough

playing music. There is a sense of comfort. It feels like home.” The pandemic has put a pause on live music performances. While people can dine in the restaurant at socially distanced tables, it doesn’t allow for the same warmth and energy that came from families crowding into the restaurant and pushing tables together to eat a meal and listen to the music. “It has been very challenging, but we have an incredibly loyal customer base, many of which have been eating here and ordering food for takeout since my parents opened,”

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | M7

At left, Nick Morin is the owner of Iron Duke Brewing in Ludlow. At center, some of the canned beers available at New City Brewery in Easthampton. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN; HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

CRAFT BREWING

Will brewing bubble burst? Brewers say pandemic pivots refined business

By KEITH O’CONNOR

Special to The Republican

he Massachusetts craft brewing industry saw 19 openings in 2021, while there was an all-time high of 15 breweries closing their doors leaving, 214 commercial breweries in business behind. It’s what MassBrewBros.com calls the “new normal.”

Sam Dibble is the owner of New City Brewery in Easthampton. These are some of the grains used in the brewing process at Iron Duke Brewing in Ludlow.

(HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN)

Brewer Sam Dibble opened New City Brewery in 2015 in Easthampton. At New City, The website explains that by brewery. up a garage door and put a food host weddings and other events they brew, serve and distrib“new normal” it means “while Four area brewers shared truck outside and people come for revenue complemented by ute alcoholic ginger beers and new breweries will continue to their thoughts for Outlook to drink your beer and eat,” their designer brews. other creative ales and lagers. open, it seems logical that near- 2022 on where the industry is he asked. “Is it a place with a As for the year ahead, “I saw this amazing potential ly as many are likely to close heading in Western Massachu- kitchen where the food match- Bonavita thinks 2022 is ripe for in an abandoned mill building because the industry itself isn’t setts in the year ahead. es the quality of their beer? Is a “bubble burst.” where we were able to repurgrowing much these days, at “I think MassBrewBros. it a place where a brewer only “I don’t think it is anyone’s pose space for production, as least not in terms of overall com is spot on, 100% correct, pumps out amazing beer that fault,” he said. “Things come well as to now offer a taproom,” beer production and sales.” that beer in and of itself has people line up for?” and go ... and everyone for the Dibble said. “The economics of It’s all about market share. definitely plateaued. There In the case of Westfield River most part is doing a good job selling in a taproom is so great They explain that as new are already about 25% too Brewing, it is a brewery and a as a brewer. And, if the bubble for your business, and it is good breweries open or grow, others many breweries in the state, distillery that in 2014 moved its does burst and you have had for your creativity to be able will invariably lose customers. and we really don’t have operation to a farm and rustic the ability as a brewer to differ- to get immediate feedback on “It may very well be that room for many more,” said red barn — the former site of entiate yourself, as we recently your product. we’ve reached a saturation Sergio Bonavita, who founded Chuck’s Steak House on Coldid when we purchased the “We now offer a pub-style point,” noted Mass. Brew Bros. Westfield River Brewing Co. lege Highway in Southwick — farm property and its old barn, menu where people can grab who list Massachusetts brewin 2012. At the time, Westwhere they hold concerts and then you will be fine.” a bite to eat and enjoy a good eries by the number — 184 are field River held only the 18th open to the public, 182 have tap license in Massachusetts. rooms to order a pint or flight Things have changed in the onsite, 11 are production brew- past decade, and the question eries not open to the public and is what is a brewery today, 19 are contract brands where Bonavita noted. O’BRIAN TOMALIN, BUILDING 8 BREWING the beer is brewed at another “Is it a place where you roll (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

brew, somewhere they can make an evening out of it and not have to leave to go elsewhere,” he said. New City also offers live music which helps to bring additional traffic to his business. Dibble noted that COVID-19 provided a challenge for some brewers, but he’s hopeful for the future of breweries. “When the pandemic hit, if you only had a tap room and were not distributing your product like we do, the option was to close completely or pivot to a packaging-distribution model to survive,” Dibble said. SEE BREWERS, PAGE M17

“You can’t just be in this business to make a dime. You must have a passion for creating fine craft beers.”

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M8 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

AUTOMOTIVE

Car sales are up, where you can find them Demand is robust, availability is issue for new, used stock

By KEITH O’CONNOR

Special to The Republican

hile 2021 saw a return of consumers to auto dealer showrooms as vaccines became available and COVID-19 cases were on the decline, the new challenge was finding what they wanted on lots with fewer models to choose from. Way fewer. “I prefer a lot full of about 500 new and used cars for our customers to choose from,” said Gary Rome, president of Gary Rome Auto Group with a Hyundai dealership in Holyoke and a Kia dealership in Enfield. That is definitely not the case for him or many other car dealers today. “We normally have about 350 new cars on property, however, on any given day now that Gary Rome number is around 20 new cars and about 120 used vehicles,” Rome said. “Our challenge in 2021 was similar. At one time we would order between 50 to 60 new cars each month from Chrysler,” said Joseph Artioli, general manager of Artioli Chrysler Dodge Ram in Enfield. “Their production hit rock bottom in 2021, and we went down to being able to order only about three to five new cars a month. Our current allocation now is up to ordering some 26 vehicles per month, so it seems to be heading back in the right direction. We also have difficulty getting auto parts.” These days, Artioli has between 20 to 30 new cars on the lot where light duty trucks and SUVs make up the majority of his business. Similarly at Central Chevrolet in West Springfield, owner Todd Volk noted he has 21 new cars on his lot instead of the normal 250. The culprit for the lack of new cars is the semiconductor chip shortage. A new car

Above left, new Chevrolet Blazers on the lot at Central Chevrolet in West Springfield. Above right, the front end of the all-electric Ioniq 5 SUV in the showroom of Gary Rome Hyundai in Holyoke. The Rome dealership sold the first 2022 Ioniq 5 electric crossover utility on the East Coast in December. At right, Joseph Artioli is the general manager of Artioli Chrysler Dodge Ram in Enfield. He reports new car sales have been even, year over year. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

today contains upwards to 1,400 chips or more — used for more elaborate infotainment systems and more basic parts such as power steering and breaks — and that number doubles for electric vehicles. The COVID-19 pandemic shut down factories producing the chips, and the resulting increase in consumer demand for personal electronics such as cellphones and laptops that require chips caused the shortage. What happened on the automotive end is that the industry incorrectly predicted a drop in demand for cars because of the pandemic and canceled semiconductor orders. As a result, semiconductor manufacturers gave priority to those producing personal electronics. Volk is optimistic. “I believe if we can get through the next couple of months, we will begin to see the supply chain with chips loosening up a bit resulting in more cars coming into the dealership,” he said. Overall, sales of new vehicles in 2021 numbered just over 15 million, up 3.4% from 2020, but still short from a steady 17 million before the pandemic, according to industry tracker Cox Automotive. Rome said Hyundai sales were up 44% at his Holyoke dealership with Kia sales up in Enfield some 17%, while Artioli simply said sales were up over

“As it is, almost 90% of the cars we have coming in are already pre-sold. I’ve never seen anything like it in the 42 years that I’ve been in the automotive business.” TODD VOLK, CENTRAL CHEVROLET, WEST SPRINGFIELD

example, with major rental car companies who are bidding on the same cars as you at auction,” Volk added. As for trends in 2022, automotive industry experts predict new vehicle prices will increase, but so will sales in the range of 1 million over 2021. They also claim manufacturers will not be able to produce their full line of vehicles, trucks and SUVs will continue their popularity as sedan sales fall even more, the demand for electric vehicles will grow as well as an interest in 2020 and Volk said Central’s import or domestic — they are that new car comes in, while autonomous vehicles, and cars sales were even. faced with the reality that there incentives are not as aggressive, will continue to become more Rome attributed the increase are basically no cars on the lot. customers are getting more for connected with 5G and what at his dealerships to several We could sell every car we get trading-in their vehicle, someis referred to as the Internet of factors. our hands on,” Volk said. times up to 40% more than Things (loT). “We are hyper-focused on “As it is, almost 90% of the pre-COVID, Rome noted. “With our sales up substanselling those cars we actually cars we have coming in are Used cars are also at a premi- tially, I intend to see another have on the lot. Both Hyundai already pre-sold. I’ve never seen um to find, and many times will good year for 2022,” Rome and Kia have done a better job anything like it in the 42 years cost consumers as much, if not said. than others in navigating the that I’ve been in the automotive more than a new car. “We are hoping for a steady computer chip crisis and are business,” he added. “It’s a major challenge trying increase on the units we reallowing their dealers to only And, while buyers may want to find used cars in decent ceive this year, as well as for a order those cars currently in their new car “now,” many are condition with low mileage. And better parts inventory,” Artioli production,” he said. waiting anywhere from 30 days when you do find some, you are said. Another reason Rome cited to several months for the car often paying a huge premium And for Volk, who said sales — while many dealers have rethey desire that isn’t on the lot. for them,” Artioli said. were even in 2021, he anticiduced their hours and now close The good news is that when “You just can’t compete, for pates “another solid year.” on Sundays — he is open seven days a week. “I feel we need to be available for our customers and Sunday remains a day when families are together. And with time off from work on Sunday, it’s a day they can also spend looking for a new car,” he said. Despite fewer sales and higher prices, all three dealers say the demand for new cars remains high while inventory remains low. “The overall demand for new cars is robust. People who are in the market for a new car want one now. But when they arrive at the dealership — and we are all in the same boat whether

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SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | M9

Ciderhouse

New England. They launched Carr’s Ciderhouse in 2011. Carr has worked as a carpenter and a CONTINUES FROM PAGE M1 gardener and Blum as a schoolteacher, venue. It was like having our very craft developer, author and gardener. own farmers market. We intend to They’ve combined their skills to run build upon the idea of bringing people a busy, organic and sustainable farm, to our farm, perhaps by opening a where they develop products with an tasting room or offering the option apple-cider foundation — from straight of enjoying a glass of cider at a picnic apple cider to hard cider to vinegars table, taking in the view.” used to flavor beverages — and they The couple learned the value of published a popular cookbook, “Cidermarketing to customers at farmers house Cookbook.” markets in the late 1990s while workThey’ve been featured in many naing on Carr’s father’s farm in Ireland. tional publications, including The New The two also learned the pitfalls of York Times, Food & Wine magazine, selling lower-value produce to chefs, The Wall Street Journal and Yankee who tended to turn their wares into magazine. high-value cuisine. Hard cider is one of the most popular “We learned to create value-added offerings, and it sets the farm apart products on the farm itself and capture from those that offer only apple cider. that value for our revenue stream,” “After our experience living in Blum says. Ireland, we became aware of the After moving to the United States, intriguing (and delicious) tradition of the couple planted 1,200 apple trees hard cider in northern European Celtic on their land in Hadley in 2006, some cultures — Ireland, England, France, traditional varieties from England Spain and others,” Blum says. “We along with those long popular here in realized that it was, at the time, an ag-

Nicole Blum pushes apples into place on the 100-year-old press at Carr’s Ciderhouse’s Preservation Orchard in Hadley in November. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

ricultural tradition that had largely disappeared from the United States, and we wanted to develop a value-added farm product, so hard cider production seemed like a good bet. And, it was.” Blum and Carr also have an edge in selling cider vinegar, cider syrup — as

in boiled cider — and, most recently, an innovative offering Blum and Carr call fruit shrubs. These are fruit juices preserved with vinegar and a sweetener. Says Blum of the shrubs, “The end result is an aromatically concentrated

treat you can add to sparkling water to make a refreshing beverage. It’s sort of a Colonial-era fruit lemonade, with vinegar taking the place of the citrus, which might sound unusual, but our customers are really taken by fruit shrubs.” Carr’s offers strawberry, blueberry and elderflower flavors. Blum and Carr are poised for growth and keep a conservative mindset, so they don’t grow too quickly. “We want to remain small and have full control over our options. Small is beautiful,” Blum says. Do they have new and innovative ideas that will keep drawing customers to their farm stand? “Always,” Blum says. “Maybe too many!” She says they are imagining products made from more unusual bases, like pawpaws, persimmons and chestnuts, which are all easy-to-grow, sustainable crops that could prove valuable in the volatile New England climate. And, says Blum, “Jonathan is pretty excited about both sorghum and beet syrups, two more traditional sweeteners that have fallen out of fashion.”

Cassidy CONTINUES FROM PAGE M1

equipment manufacturers like John Deere and others. Though hundreds of fairs and related events take place in our cities and towns, this industry is generally not understood by the business community, legislators and the general public. Yes, our major event may take place for two to three weeks, but the economic impact and positive cultural and educational effects of such events linger At left, Eugene J. Cassidy, president and CEO of the Eastern States Exposition, captures a selfie with Joseph Haag, of Emma’s much longer. Cookie Kitchen & Kora’s Cookie Dough, during opening day 2021 at the Big E on Sept. 17. At right, Devin Ramsey, 2, of NewingWhat is obvious is that ton, Conn., has a ball feeding a goat during a visit to the Big E petting zoo at the Eastern States Exposition on Sept. 20. people visit fairs to eat more (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTOS) than they ordinarily would, enjoy adult and family time, concerts and rides, shop, remarks I made at the Interimagine what we would face as all the attention and tremenvidual fair’s local value and witness livestock shows and national Association of Fairs the ensuing months unfolded. dous funding. While states, yoking that to the industry at actively as well as passively, and Expositions’ recent annual Unimaginable. municipalities and convention large. We have the power to learn something new. convention. I am addressing “Yet here we are. Together bureaus provide numerous promote our individual event This will likely be their only more than 2,000 fair profesagain, having Grown Fair studies boasting about how by connecting its power in our opportunity to see a cow as sionals and associate members Strong. these operations positively im- region to the greater industry. it is milked, how that milk in attendance. This oration “Thank you, to all of you pact their economies. Yet fairs This step will assure our fair is churned into butter, baby provides some insight into who have helped provide of all sizes are ignored. and this industry’s place in the chicks as they hatch, the this many-faceted business support to each other these “We have the power to world economy. Currently, we harvest of wool, learn where and our unique and important previous two years. During this expand the influence of our do not have the knowledge. their cuts of beef come from, position in the community and pandemic and all through my fairs by quantifying our indi“In order to gain it, we must or in past years the awesome the U.S. economy: career, I have leaned into peospectacle of an elephant. Our “What we do matters. ple in this industry who have fans and patrons inform us We should take pride in the shared not only their moral that some of their own and impact we have. And we should support, but their award their children’s earliest mem- talk about it. And talk about it. winning ideas. Ideas that ories are of what they see and And talk about it more. have helped me make my fair experience at the Big E — the “Unlike any industry I have better. We support each other, giant yellow slide, Clydesdale ever been involved with, public we care about each other, we horses in the parade, blue accounting, banking, manuraise each other up and we cotton candy, oxen, alpacas facturing, and others, we fair hurt when one of us is down. and camels. Our educational people build each other up. We We are unlike any other inmission encompasses agricul- don’t compete; we share. We dustry I have ever witnessed. ture, history, science, geogracare. We care for the people We Grow Fair Strong because phy and more. among us, and those we serve. What We Do Matters. Eastern States Exposition Those tens and tens of millions “Yet, we are taken for has an astounding economic who visit us, who support us, granted. impact. It is responsible for an our programs and agriculture. “Our industry has largely influx of nearly $700 million They create commerce and gone unrecognized. We are so into the regional economy. increase their local, regionhumble. So quiet. In this age, Area small businesses thrive al, national, and the world’s regardless of how important because of our presence, economy. Additionally, we we are, fairs are not popping including hotels, restaurants, provide a lifeline to other not- up. New fairs aren’t being food suppliers, electrical, for-profits, service organizacreated. In fact, fairs are plumbing, paving and landtion, churches, the local Lions, struggling in many places. As scape contractors, as well as Rotary, Exchange and other budgets are cut and political those that take part as vendors clubs. They are part of the priorities change, the fair is an or exhibitors year-round and fabric of our fairs and together easy target. We are taken for during the Big E. In turn, the we help improve the quality of granted. In most places, cities cancellation of the 2020 Big life in the community. and states write blank checks E and most year-round events “Today, we are slowly but to their sports complexes had significant negative effect surely emerging from the craand civic centers. Sporting on these businesses and our ziest times in our lives. A world- events and teams and their regional economic health. wide pandemic … and more. billionaire owners capture Following are segments of Two years ago we couldn’t the glitz and the limelight,

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stand together to discover and report what we do. Because the financial importance of what we do is measurable. My goal is to plant the seed in your mind, to undertake an economic impact study of your fair. And in the ensuing 24 months to gather and harvest that information, so that as an industry we learn and then reveal our impact on the world economy. “When tough times like a pandemic strike, or when new regulations strike at the heart of our mission; we must be armed with the information necessary to state our case. We must have the information that proves that the fair industry is worth investing in. It is worth saving. Because the fair drives markets, commerce, jobs, education, interest in our regions and the wholesome way of life that used to be, and must return to being, a priority in our nation.” Eugene J. Cassidy is president and CEO of the Eastern States Exposition. To learn more about the exposition, go online to thebige.com.

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M10 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

“We continue to be focused on animal health and wellness but also know that consumers appreciate that we use human-grade ingredient and quality processes to make the best products possible.” JAIME D. MCKINLEY, PRESIDENT, W.F. YOUNG INC.

Young CONTINUES FROM PAGE M1

in her bathtub, launching the company known today as W.F. Young Inc. “Today, the same herbal ingredients of calendula, echinacea and artemisia absinthium are the foundation of the original Absorbine liniment that we continue to market globally,” McKinley said. Upon its debut, the product proved so popular among horse owners that they began using it on themselves to ease their own tired muscles. In 1903, the Youngs debuted Absorbine Jr., the “human” version of their popular horse liniment product. McKinley is the great-great-granddaughter of Mary Ida and Wilbur Young, making her the fifth generation of the family in the business. She took over as president last year after 29 years with the company, working in sales and marketing and serving in numerous leadership roles. She noted the company sold off the human health care division — its Absorbine Jr. line — in 2013 so it could better focus on animal health and wellness. And, while the pandemic has changed many aspects of daily life, a positive that’s emerged for W.F. Young is the embracing of “pets as family,” something that has benefited the company, McKinley said. It led to a “very prosperous” 2021 for the company which operates in the premium pet market space, McKinley said. W.F. Young experienced 26% growth from 2020 to 2021 and is projecting growth again in 2022, the company’s 130th year. The company has enjoyed double-digit growth the past few years, and its plan is to continue to reinvest in the business to create innovative products for 2022 and beyond, according to McKinley. “We feel very good about moving into 2022. Our focus is on making sure our valued customers continue to enjoy a consistent brand experience,” she said. Coping with the pandemic meant keeping up with the demands for their products while adjusting some of the company’s business practices. While the sales team always worked remotely, the East Longmeadow staff was in-person but shifted to remote work during the pandemic, according to McKinley. Now the company offers a hybrid schedule, allowing employees to work up to two days at home and giving them the flexibility that working from home can offer while also providing the opportunity for in-person collaboration, she said. “This provides the best of both worlds for our team,” she said.

spirit (of Wilbur and Mary Ida Young),” McKinley said. “They had a passion for doing right by animals, something we still hold close to our hearts today. … We’ve built on this longstanding commitment to find a better way to care for animals and it’s the foundation we’re building our future on.” The company realizes that not all businesses have been as successful during the pandemic, and the Young family is sympathetic, according to McKinley. The trends of working from home, and people staying home ended Above, Jamie D. McKinley, up being favorable changes president of the W. F. Young for W.F. Young and its stable This vintage photo shows the Absorbine Liniment bottle line Inc., is the great-great-grandof products. at W.F. Young Co. in Springfield. The company has been in daughter of company found“We’re cautiously optimisbusiness since 1892. (W.F. YOUNG PHOTO) ers Mary Ida and Wilbur tic. I think customers will F. Young, making her the continue to realize their pets fifth generation to lead the can live healthier and longer worked on hot spots and abra- consolidate to a third-party company. At right, W.F. Young lives if they take good care sions helped boost product warehouse.” launched the Silver Honey sales, McKinley added. And, The company has been at its of them,” McKinley added. brand, natural wound care “We’re very proud to be as with Absorbine, people also current location since 2000. available for horses and dogs have been using it on themPrior to that it had been in celebrating our 130th anni(and all animals). It uses Maselves, she said. Springfield for 80 years. Its versary. We also take pride in nuka honey and micro silver to “Like our original liniment business follows what she being a family-owned and run stop bacteria to promote healproduct, we have received called “the smile,” the area company, where our focus on ing of cuts, scratches and skin many testimonials from in the U.S. where people have core values can really differconditions. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO) consumers expressing their and take good care of horses entiate us in these challenging love of Silver Honey so much — California, Texas and New times.” that they are using it on England, with many customFour core values continue The company has not had themselves for minor cuts and ers in the north central and with the company, according layoffs and plans to increase abrasions. We continue to be Southwest regions. to McKinley: collaboration, its team of 38 employees by remained steady, she said In addition to McKinley, accountability, respect and adding an additional five staff they have seen a larger growth focused on animal health and wellness but also know that who runs the day-to-day enthusiasm. The words members this year, McKinley trend in their pet care segconsumers appreciate that we operations along with the displayed on the walls of the said. ment as people bought pupuse human-grade ingredient leadership team, there are company headquarters. In 2020, when the pandem- pies or adopted rescue dogs and quality processes to make several other family mem“As we hunker down togethic began, McKinley said they throughout the pandemic. the best products possible,” bers involved in the busier in these challenging times, experienced “no big hit,” “We’ve had a lot of new McKinley said. ness. W.F. Young is owned we want to find better ways but instead a channel shift to pet parents that entered the In East Longmeadow, by Tyler Young and his wife, to care for animals so we can more online sales, a trend that marketplace, and have had W.F. Young services its Jean Young, who serve on become better caregivers. It led to the high growth from a trend of younger millenniNorth American distributors the board. Tyler Young is a has to start at home. It’s part 2020 to 2021. As “homeal-type folks who try and be fourth-generation family of the longevity we’ve had and steading” became more pop- in tune to health and wellness and partners and also sells worldwide to 40 countries. Its member. McKinley’s cousins, why the company has been ular, people began spending for themselves and transfer products are made by contract Jessica Young, who is Tyler’s able to prosper as a fifth-genmore time with their animals, that to what they’re giving manufacturers which are all daughter, and Sean Black, are eration family business. The and giving them more care, and providing to their pets,” based in the United States. also fifth-generation family values remind us of why we resulting in sales growth McKinley said. “The reason for that is members, focusing on marare here and the difference we for W.F. Young’s products, W.F. Young has products for can make in animals’ lives,” McKinley said. cats and dogs on special diets many of product lines are very keting and brand strategy. specialized,” McKinley said. “It’s interesting to recogMcKinley said. “We want to “We’re a go-to health and and for their joints and hips, keep it going for a sixth genwellness line for many conand teeth. Products are avail- “We utilize a network of USA- nize the legacy and heritage and sort of entrepreneurial eration.” sumers,” McKinley said. able under The Missing Link, based manufacturers and For horses, they have prod- Silver Honey, and Absorbine ucts for fly and pest control, Pet Care SaniPet lines. skin and coat care, muscles While the company always and joints, hoof care, supple- had products for dogs, ments and wound care. Prod- McKinley said W.F. Young ucts sold include the mainmade a concerted effort to stay Absorbine Veterinary grow its pet business in 2015. Liniment line as well as Bug And while there is a lot Block, Ultra Shield, Leather of competition in the pet Therapy, Magic Cushion Hoof products and supplement Packing and Horseman’s One marketplace, W.F. Young has Step. managed to hold its own. Many of the company’s Last year, W.F. Young horse customers are the launched the Silver Honey Plus great food, craft beverages, outdoor adventure, “traditional backyard horse brand, natural wound care person, a female who grew up available for horses and dogs the arts and much more! with horses and has made a (and all animals). It uses Malifestyle commitment,” said nuka honey and micro silver McKinley. Some may partici- to stop bacteria to promote pate competitively in racing, healing of cuts, scratches and jumping and dressage as well. skin conditions. ·Barton Cove “It’s a lifestyle for many “It’s been highly success·Berkshire East folks who have horses, part of ful for us. We have plans to ·Bridge of Flowers their identity,” McKinley said. continue to invest and build ·Crabapple Whitewater “They have a strong emotion- that brand,” McKinley said. ·Crumpin Fox Golf Club al connection.” “It did phenomenally well ·Great Falls Discovery Center W.F. Young’s line can be — 100% higher than what ·Magic Wings Butterfly found at tack and feed stores, we expected. … People are Conservatory as well as online on Amazon seeking natural alternatives ·Northfield Golf Course or Chewy.com. Petsmart is to current brands that they ·Northfield Mountain a key customer, and Tractor use.” ·Zoar Outdoor Supply is its major suppliWord-of-mouth and suc·16 State Forests er, McKinley added. While cess stories shared on social the equine customers have media about how well it

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | M11

REAL ESTATE

Woman-led realty group speaks homebuyers’ language

By Elizabeth Román

eroman@repub.com

or more than a decade, Nilsa Laboy met with clients who were spending thousands of dollars every month on rental properties when for the same price or less they could own their own homes.

Realtor Lisa Oleksak-Sullivan with Coldwell Banker Realty opens the shades in the kitchen of a listing in Westfield that just sold. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

REAL ESTATE

Sellers still rule in real estate Inventory remains major issue in nation By KEITH O’CONNOR

Special to The Republican

To borrow the iconic opening phrase in “A Tale of Two Cities” by Charles Dickens, “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” These aspects, along with the exorbitant prices and a lack of available homes, have created a much tougher buying season,” Yun stated. “While I expect neither a price reduction, nor another year of record-pace price gains, the market will see more inventory in 2022 and that will help some consumers with affordability,” he added. According to the National Association of Realtors, the median home sales price was $346,900 in 2021, up for 16.9% from 2020, the highest on record going back to 1999. Here in Western Massachusetts, the Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley reported the median home price in the

Here are some key points on single-family home sales during 2021: Sales: up 0.7% from 6,120 in 2020 to 6,163 in 2021 Median price: up 14% from $250,000 in 2020 to $285,000 in 2021 Days on the market: down 33.9% from 52 in 2020 to 35 in 2021 Pending sales: down 2.4% from 6,325 in 2020 to 6,174 in 2021 Source: Realtor Association of Pioneer Valley

region was $285,000 in 2021, up 14% from $250,000 in 2020 Area Realtors agree that the past year continued to be a seller’s market. “We continue to struggle to have enough inventory to

Nilsa Laboy launched New Homes Realty Group in Springfield in 2020. She said she takes pride in guiding first-time homebuyers through what can be an intimidating process. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

cut and Rhode Island. “Juan is an investor. He buys and flips a lot of properties. He owns this building, so we already had the space,” Laboy said. “We both wanted to create a place where people could come and get everything they needed all in one place.” State Rep. Carlos González, D-Springfield, said it is realty groups like New Homes that are making homebuying accessible to underserved populations, particularly the Latino and Black communities in Greater Springfield. “Buying a home is a huge investment.

SEE REALTY, PAGE M18

“A lot of people come from nothing, and to be able to help them purchase their own home and establish a future for themselves and their families, that’s really what it’s about.”

SEE REAL ESTATE, PAGE M14

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That is how some might describe the past year in the world of real estate, but it depends on where you fall in that equation. Lawrence Yun, chief economist for the National Association of Realtors, recently stated in a year-end news release from the association that housing demand continues to be high, noting that homes placed on the market for sale go from “listed status” to “under contract” in some 18 days. “Buyer competition alone is unrelenting, but home seekers have also had to contend with the negative impacts of supply chain disruptions and labor shortages this year.

PIONEER VALLEY HOME SALES

“The state gives renters a credit on their taxes. I would ask people how much they were paying for rent, and they would tell me $1,100, $1,200, $1,300, crazy prices, and I would just tell them why don’t you consider buying a house instead?” said Laboy, who has had a tax preparation business for 14 years and became a real estate agent several years ago to help her tax clients find homes. “For many people it is a very scary process. They aren’t sure what steps to take or where to go and honestly they just don’t believe that they can own something for themselves,” said Laboy. Having learned about the tax incentives and grant programs through her business, and seeing the joy in the eyes of clients shopping for a home for the very first time, Laboy took a risk and launched her own realty company in with her business partner Juan Santana in the midst of the pandemic. “We opened in August of 2020 and we have not looked back since,” she said. Laboy partnered with Santana, a fellow real estate agent, to establish New Homes Realty Group with an office on Carew Street in Springfield. Starting with just four agents in 2020, the company now boasts 21 real estate agents all licensed in Massachusetts and Connecticut, all but one of whom are bilingual, as well as two in-house lenders and several attorneys. Laboy and Santana are also brokers licensed in Massachusetts, Connecti-

JOANNE

PAPADIMITRIOU 413.244.2970

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M12 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

BRADLEY IS THINKING OF DEVELOPING, ON SPEC, A MID-RANGE 90,000- OR 100,000-SQUARE-FOOT CARGO HANDLING FACILITY TO ATTRACT BUSINESS. TRANSPORTATION

Freight leads airport’s post-COVID recovery Ground transport hub will debut this year

Bradley has been unable to regain its Air Canada flights folBy Jim Kinney lowing the pandemic, nor has jkinney@repub.com Aer Lingus restarted its flights from Connecticut to Dublin, radley International Airport saw what had been the airport’s more than 4.6 million passenger only trans-Atlantic service. The Canadian border boardings in 2021, nearly doubling recently reopened to nonits total of 2.4 million in 2020, when essential travel, but those COVID-19 shut down most air trav- headed there are still subject to restrictions, Dillon said. el for months. “It really put a couple of bur“We are still lagging prepanties coming dens on the aviation sector,” demic levels as it relates to back. In Jan- he said of the pandemic. passenger travel,” said Kevin uary, Bradley Testing requirements and A. Dillon, executive director welcomed travel restrictions for Ireland and CEO of the Connecticut vendors Aun- and other European Union Airport Authority, which runs tie Anne’s members similarly hurt deBradley and other airports in pretzels and mand for Aer Lingus. Connecticut. Carvel ice “That puts people off from Bradley is still off 31% from cream. even considering it,” Dillon Kevin A. Dillon the 6.7 million travelers who A lot of the said. “They are more likely to departed from and arrived at lost passentravel domestically.” Bradley in 2019, putting it fur- ger traffic is business travel. Aer Lingus is committed to ther along in its recovery than With fewer workers in offices, the market, he said, but won’t Dillon thought it would be. He fewer people are traveling to resume flights until late 2022 thought Bradley wouldn’t hit visit clients on sales calls or to or, more likely, 2023. The this level until well into 2022. conventions, Dillon said. That Irish airline began flying from “It was a ghost town here in hurts airlines because busiBradley in September 2016, the terminal. We have certain- ness travelers typically book at bringing trans-Atlantic service ly come a long way,” he said. the last minute and pay more to the airport for the first time It’s busier now, with ameni- for their seats. since Northwest flew from

Holiday travelers make their way through Terminal A at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks on Dec. 23. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Bradly to Amsterdam in 2007 and 2008. Bradley has been adding new nonstop service in the last few months, mostly seasonal vacation destinations like Cancun, Mexico; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Miami and Orlando in Florida. The airport was also able to add flights to San Francisco and Nashville during the pandemic. Its wish list includes Seattle, Milwaukee, New Orleans and

The new $210 million ground transportation center at Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks will house car rental services, increase public parking and incorporate public transportation connections. It’s expected to open in May. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

Savannah, Georgia. Bradley develops this list from travel patterns of people who fly out of Bradley now but make connecting flights, and from talking with corporations who send out business travelers. Freight traffic has been a bright spot. With more folks shopping from home, Amazon, DHL and FedEx all grew at the airport. Cargo is an important business to develop because it generates employment, Dillon said. And cargo carriers can find themselves priced out of the bigger airports, like John F. Kennedy International in New York. Bradley is thinking of developing, on spec, a midrange 90,000- or 100,000-squarefoot cargo handling facility to attract business. Already underway is the airport’s ground transportation center, a $210 million project funded by surcharges on rental cars. It will have centralized car rentals — no

more riding a bus to a lot — as well as transit bus connections and increased public parking with 600 new spaces. It’s set to open in May. Dillon said the ground transportation center is built to accommodate future rail connections and, in the shorter term, Bradley hopes to improve its bus connections both to Hartford and to Springfield. Better bus connections would not only make it easier for travelers but also help shuttle commuting workers to the airport. Airport employers, like others, have had to scramble to find help in recent months. Bradley plans to bring federal inspection station back into the terminal building and relocate its explosives detection equipment to free up space and bring scanners out of the lobby. The airport is nearly out of ticket counter space, so Dillon wants to reconfigure the way passengers flow through the building.

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | M13

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Transportation provider sees bigger purpose By Aprell May Munford

amunford@repub.com

essika Rozki’s story begins 15 years ago as a Chicopee school bus driver. Rozki loved everything about her career in transportation, especially the children and their parents. However, after her last child was born, she needed more flexibility. Rozki said she went into prayer, which provided her an answer.

“I had been saved for six years. I asked God what did he want me to do. And I dreamed about it. I saw the van,” Rozki said. Rozki resolved in 2019 to launch Rozki Rides, which today is a professional transportation service for families in Greater Springfield. The company employs three people and has four vehicles. “The company kind of just made itself work on its own. I was a driver. I had three boys already, I was having a girl and I wanted to be with her,” Rozki said. “After taking a year off, because I loved being in transportation, being with the kids and schools, I wanted to start driving again. I asked myself how I could do both. There was nothing out there like that. How could I help myself with all my certifications? I felt if I was struggling there must be others.” Rozki turned to the Holyoke EforAll entrepreneurship program to follow her dream. The EforAll “ecosystem” supports entrepreneurs with business coaching, consultancy and connection to professional networks. “Mentorship is critical in business,” Rozki said. “EforAll was exceptional because of the network and support system they provide.” Rozki Rides started at the peak of the coronavirus pandemic, which Rozki said was extremely challenging. Even though she knew there were few other transportation companies like hers in the market,

Romelo Medina lowers the garage door where his mom’s company, Rozki Rides, stores its vehicles. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

“I like to meet the parents and children firsthand, so they have a chance to feel me out. I like them to see that this is a real option.”

Westfield to West Springfield.” With inflation due to the pandemic and other transportation businesses closing for good, Rozki worried about keeping her price point affordable. She now understands how invaluable a service like this is to a family who is navigating these hard times. Jessika Rozki, owner and CEO of Rozki Rides, says she has “Prices starts at $25,” Rozki been able to grow her business during the coronavirus pansaid. “It is not cheap, but it is demic while other transportation providers struggled or closed reliable. It is about stability for down. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN) most families. Parents know she was nervous about starting on public assistance within the that we will be here all the up and building initial clientele. last year, leaving families the time.” “During the pandemic we choice between paying high Catering to families’ needs is had our ups and downs. Bigger ride-sharing costs or to rely on at the core of Rozki Rides. transportation companies were public transportation. Rozki “We do it all. We do sports, shutting down. Which helped Rides provides families an pickups and drop-offs. This is me be found by companies and alternative. unique and there is nothing JESSIKA ROZKI, ROZKI RIDES families looking for transpor“A lot of times we have else like it,” Rozki said. tation. We focused on more friends and family that can According to Rozki, the day options for adults at the time, help with rides and watching “In my first year we serviced she knew this transportation but our main focus was on kids our children, but for how long? over 100 families,” Rozki said. service served a bigger purpose and helping seniors with trans- Our transportation will always “In the past four months we was when a parent called her portation,” Rozki said. be here,” Rozki said. serviced 40 more families and and thanked her for the ride. Normally, families could not Business has picked up in we have been continuously She revealed that her daughget transportation or day care the last year and Rozki Rides is growing. We are working with ter would not have been able vouchers unless they had been hiring. day cares, summer camps, from to participate in after-school

sports because of her work schedule, but Rozki Rides provided a way to make it work. “When you see yourself helping, understand, it is so rewarding,” Rozki said. “To say I was able to help a mom to keep her job, it was like providing a gift.” Rozki said it is the tiny details that make her transportation service different. “I like to meet the parents and children firsthand, so they have a chance to feel me out. I like them to see that this is a real option,” Rozki said. “We have car seats and boosters. Everything is cleaned and sanitized.” Making it in business in Western Massachusetts, in Rozki’s opinion, means being resilient, believing in yourself and being able to move forward. There is remarkable value in the Western Massachusetts community, she said. “I wouldn’t have done it

SEE RIDES, PAGE M18

Sponsor Content

Despite Pandemic, Office Leasing Prevails in Downtown Springfield The owners and management of the MassLive Building have not wavered from their belief that to be successful in the office leasing business, especially post COVID, the tenant experience must be “Top of Mind.” The commitment and investment made to the office property if viewed through the tenant’s lens, must include the fundamental amenities of affordable and convenient parking, safety, good climate control, cleanliness, and onsite management delivering attentive, high-quality service to the building population. In addition, the success of an urban office property is often tied to the overall well-being of a walkable, attractive, thriving downtown area. Evan Plotkin, President/CEO of NAI Plotkin, the firm that manages the MassLive Building located at 1350 Main Street in downtown Springfield, has seen his fair share of changes in Springfield throughout his 35+ year career in commercial real estate. NAI Plotkin has been involved in the development of downtown since the early 70’s. As a visionary for bringing more economic opportunities to the area, specifically downtown, and overseeing 6,000 million square feet of residential and commercial property as part of NAI Plotkin’s portfolio, Evan knew that one of the ways to help promote Springfield and a walkable City was by activating public spaces. When the firm took over managing the MassLive building

over a decade ago, it was noticeable that the plaza, the lobby, and other common areas needed activation. The priority was to transform the outdoor plaza and fountain into an attractive water feature. Further enhancing the outdoor appeal, benches and tables were added for public use. By activating this area, it created a unique atmosphere at the building for visitors and tenants to meet and network with other local professionals. Speakers were installed outside, as well as in the lobby and elevators of the building, and brought an inviting feeling of life to an otherwise ordinary 9-5 routine. Palazzo’s café located on the first floor of the building has also added many pleasing benefits to the building, including baked goods, sandwiches and what tenants might describe as “a friendly, happy place to be”. You can also find a 10,000 square foot specialized fitness center on the 9th floor, 180 Fitness, that offers personal training and classes for a lunch time workout, or a ‘post work’ workout. Despite the pandemic and many office users now working remotely, the MassLive

building has signed several new leases which has supported the concept that locating a business downtown is a viable option for many companies. In fact, several tenants in the building have recently expanded their business by taking more space, as their products and services have seen an increase, despite the pandemic. The building also has great retail space on the first floor, and 50,000 square feet of office space on the upper floors available, providing the perfect opportunity for a new business that needs visibility and accessibility in the heart of the city. Another huge benefit to the MassLive building is its centralized location in downtown. Both Union Station and MGM flank both ends of downtown and are a 10-minute walk in either direction. Few small cities have a beautiful, newly renovated riverfront with a 3-mile bike path. Along the trail are

several restaurants, a marijuana dispensary, and The Basketball Hall of Fame, to name a few. Ample, convenient parking options are within a block radius and within walking distance to a variety of businesses including City Hall, the Mass Mutual Center, and Symphony Hall. Recent developments in downtown Springfield bode well for enhancing the downtown experience. The recent renovations to Pynchon Park (5-minute walk) now offer handicap accessibility to one of the finest collection of museums in the country. Stearns Square Park and Duryea Way underwent major renovations two years ago and now this area, with the restored Turtle Fountain, is attracting 4 new restaurants to the neighborhood. The goal, to create a Dining District, is now well on its way to becoming a reality. Springfield scores high as a walkable, cultural district with attractive amenities that rival many cities twice its size. And with affordable and convenient office space available, and its close proximity to Worcester, Hartford, and Boston, it makes Springfield, and the MassLive building, a great place to work.

This is a sponsor article brought to you by this site in conjunction with the advertiser. The advertiser paid a fee to promote this article and may have influenced or authored the content. The views expressed in this article are those of the advertiser and do not necessarily reflect those of this site or affiliated companies.

%%SATFOL-%%3MONTH%%2DATE OUTLOOK 2022

M14 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

“Virtual tours of properties are here to stay. You have to embrace the technology. A buyer can tell a lot about a house and property with a 3D walk-through.” PAT WHEWAY, WHEWAY GROUP

Real estate The long-awaited Wahlburgers restaurant opened last year on the MGM Springfield campus. Chef Paul Wahlberg, in white, greets people at the grand opening May 25. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

Casino

necticut, New Hampshire and New York. He said not a day goes by CONTINUES FROM PAGE M3 where a visitor doesn’t ask were much more stringent. him about sports betting in All three of the state’s Massachusetts. In August, casinos reported increases MGM celebrated its third anin gambling revenues from niversary with the opening of November to December. two new sports lounges, large MGM’s was up about 2.5% TV auditoriums that could from month to month. easily be converted to sports At Encore Boston Harbor, books. the $62.4 million in gross “We are ready to move as gaming revenue in Decemsoon as the light turns green,” ber was up 13% compared to Kelley said. $55.2 million in November. It Legislation is pending on was up 113% from the $29.3 Beacon Hill, with local busimillion reported in December nesses also clamoring for the 2020. Encore’s gross gaming right to offer sports betting at revenue was $54 million in bars and restaurants through December 2019. lottery terminals. At Plainridge Park Casino in Meanwhile MGM is dealing Plainville, total slots revenue with the same rapid changes was $11.04 million in Deto the labor force other busicember and $10.97 million nesses face. in November. It was $9.17 MGM Springfield has more million a year ago in Decemthan 1,200 employees and ber 2020 and $10.21 million a is hiring for a variety of roles year before that in December throughout the property. In 2019. Plainridge doesn’t have this competitive job market, it table games. is offering new team members up to a $2,500 sign-on bonus. MGM Springfield The casino said it raised hourly wages across many president Chris classifications, provided tuition Kelley said not a reimbursement, offered free day goes by where meals in the employee dining room, and offers one of a visitor doesn’t the most comprehensive and ask him about affordable health care packages sports betting in in the region. Counting wages and benefits, Kelley said, the Massachusetts. average employee gets $59,000 In August, MGM a year in compensation. celebrated its third But there are still 200 open anniversary with the positions. Some have been vacant for months or longer. opening of two new And there is a pattern — 40% sports lounges, large of the vacant positions are in food service. TV auditoriums Kelley said he and the that could easily be company are working to converted to sports develop a boutique hotel in books. the office building at 101 State St. in MGM’s neighborhood. Massachusetts casinos’ The eight-story building — a competitors in Connecticut corner building also known also reported good Decemby the address of 1200 Main bers. Mohegan Sun said its St. — was built in 1908 by slots “win” after paying out MassMutual as its headquarprizes last month was up ters. It was Springfield’s first 29.5% from December 2020. skyscraper. Foxwoods Resort Casino said MassMutual is also a fundits slots “win” was up 42% ing partner contributing $16 from a year ago, according to million to the restoration of 31 state figures. Elm St. Connecticut Gov. Ned One thing that happened in Lamont said the state collect- 2021 that won’t impact emed $1.7 million from the first ployees or visitors is MGM’s month of legal sports betting sale of the real estate, Kelley in the state in October. said. In August, MGM Resorts That’s the number — and International sold its real the lost business — that worestate spin-off company to the ries MGM’s Kelley. He said New York-based Vici Propgamblers will go where they erties for $17.2 billion. The can place sports bets, and now sale included the land and Massachusetts is surrounded buildings at MGM Springfield by states that allow it: Confor $400 million.

and encouraging advice to buyers. “I encourage them to CONTINUES FROM PAGE M11 be patient and take their meet demand,” said Cheryl time and try not to settle,” C. Malandrinos, president added Sullivan. “It’s a big of the regional association. investment. An experienced “There are tons of buyers Realtor can help a buyer with looking to purchase a home, a number of strategies and ofand millennials are coming of fer them tools, such as clauses age where they are looking to to put in their offer, that will purchase what is often their help it stand out in a market first home. Entry level homes where we are seeing multiple are in high demand, and with offers.” that, buyers are also looking Wheway advises her buyers for more outdoor space.” “not to go wild” with their A home for sale in Wilbraham by Wheway Group Coldwell To quote CNN, the U.S. bids. Banker Realty. Realtor Pat Wheway says the virtual tour, housing market has had “a “Some buyers today are adopted by Realtors amid the pandemic, remains a key part white hot year,” with sales going way over the asking of sales strategies. (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN) near the highest level in 15 price just so their offer will be years, with an estimated 6 accepted over others. I don’t to see a number of foreclomillion homes sold in 2021. want my buyers overpaying sures this year, adding inves- and tell them financially that “I’m busy every year, tors are going to be “surprised it will haunt them in the end. people need a place to live. and disappointed.” I did $20 million in sales Some buyers are also waiving “Fannie Mae and Freddie with about 62 transactions, inspections which puts them Mac are no longer throwing compared to 2020 with $16 in a better light with sellers. those foreclosures out on the But that’s not a good idea bemillion and about 52 transmarket in their current conactions,” said Lisa Oleksak cause you could find yourself dition. They are renovating Sullivan, of Coldwell Banker faced with multiple problems those houses prior to putting that you didn’t expect and Realty in Westfield. them on the market, so what will be quite costly to repair,” Pat Wheway, of the you are going to see is more Wheway Group in Longshe said. entry-level homeowners bemeadow, said her agency did Beth Brogle, a Realtor with Brogle noted the most imRealLiving Real Estate in ing able to afford that house $30 million in sales, $5 milportant advice she can offer is Holyoke, says she expects instead of paying higher inlion of which was brought in to “be organized” and know buyers to take advantage of vestor prices,” Wheway said, your financial strengths. by her partner Dave Mulak. “and that’s a wonderful thing Because it is a seller’s mar- low mortgage rates in the “You can’t rack up debt and for them.” ket, Sullivan said buyers now coming months. “You can’t have bad credit. Also, you expect them to stay low While some Realtors in tend to be “less picky.” need to be mindful that when forever,” she says. (DON TREEGER 2021 abandoned the use of “Two years ago buyers you own a house it’s not like / THE REPUBLICAN) virtual tours, which bemight have held out to get all calling the landlord in your came a popular way to show the amenities they were lookapartment to fix something. said Beth Brogle, of Real homes during the onset of ing for in a house, or waited It’s called the joys of home Living Realty Professionals in COVID-19 in 2020, many for another home which ownership,” she said. Holyoke. tout them now as a primary needed less work, but that’s As for the year ahead, The Federal Housing Adtool for real estate transacnot the case today,” Sullivan Brogle said she expects to see ministration (FHA) on July 30 tions. said. a continued tight inventory, announced an extension of “Virtual tours of properties but noted once the buyer pool “Also, what we are seeing its moratorium on evictions are here to stay. You have to during the pandemic is that dries up then prices will begin for foreclosed borrowers and embrace the technology. A with more people working to adjust a little. their occupants through Sept. buyer can tell a lot about a from home, they don’t need “But I don’t see that hap30, and noted the expiration house and property with a 3D pening right away. For now to be as close to their place of the foreclosure moratoriwalk-through,” Wheway said. my advice is for buyers to get of work when buying a new um on July 31. In a seller’s market today, house.” organized and get their ducks Wheway noted she expects Realtors can provide helpful A one-level ranch, for inin a row,” she said. stance, is “a hot commodity right now,” especially for older buyers who don’t want to climb stairs up to the bedroom, according to Sullivan, who noted there are not many of them in the market. “I see a mix. Older buyers may want a ranch, but I’m selling a ton of colonials and capes,” Wheway added. While most mortgage rates hovered around 3% for most of 2021, Fannie Mae, a leading source of mortgage financing in the U.S., in a recent economic forecast said it expects the 30-year fixed rate mortgage to average 3.4% in 2022, while other industry sources claim rates could reach the low-4% range. “That is still cheap when you consider interest rates were 15% and higher back in the 1980s. I expect a lot of buyers in the coming months to take advantage of the lower rates while they can. You can’t expect them to stay low forever,”

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THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022 | M15

AGRICULTURE

Something old, something new at Whately’s Quonquont Farm Property dates back to 1700s

By CORI URBAN

Special to The Republican

here is something traditional about Quonquont Farm but also something modern.

“At Quonquont Farm, we carry on traditions from the farmers who worked the land before us,” said Leslie A. Harris, farm manager. Historic buildings at the farm in Whately are used for new purposes like the farm store, which was a chicken house in the 1930s, and the event barn that once housed teams of Percheron work horses. Fruit trees and blueberry bushes planted 50 years ago continue to produce, alongside new crops like raspberries, flowers and vegetables. The event venue blends the historic barn with contemporary amenities like a full bar, a landscaped stone patio and complementary Wi-Fi. “The event venue allows us to have a more consistent income while also preserving the land in agriculture,” Harris said. “Erratic weather patterns associated with climate change make growing perennial fruit crops a challenge. Drought, excessive rain and extreme swings in winter temperature

Farm manager Leslie A. Harris in the orchard at the Quonquont Farm in Whately. Below, the event barn generally hosts more than 50 events from May to November. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO) Quonquont Farm in Whately is a working farm with an orchard and event spaces. It dates to the mid-1700s, and in 1920, the property became the Quonquont Stock and Dairy Farm, a nationally known breeder of Holstein-Friesian cattle. Below, a stray apple hangs on at the end of the season. (DAVE ROBACK PHOTO)

much to offer — three historic barns, unusual tiled Firestone silos, an elegant 18th-century farmhouse, lush flower gardens, beautiful old fruit orchards and a view that is can all wreak havoc on a farm. spectacular in any season,” she But a steady source of income said, noting that clients and that welcomes people to enjoy guests appreciate the authenthe bounty and beauty of the ticity of being on a farm that farm reduces the economic has been worked for centuries. risks of growing food.” Quonquont Farm is taking At the same time, inviting reservations for both the 2022 people to enjoy the farm at an and 2023 seasons. event builds a customer base Harris is excited about the for farm products. upcoming farm season, too, “Because we invite people which will see diversification to come to our farm to see how food to local families reduces Quonquont (or Quan Quan) October. The venue can accom- to include vegetables grown the food is grown and particthe carbon footprint associated was a 17th-century Native modate up to 200 guests. organically, transitioning the ipate in harvesting their own with buying food shipped in American leader who lived “Quonquont Farm is a quint- apple and blueberry orchards fruit and flowers, we are able to from other parts of the country along the Connecticut River. essential New England landto organic growing practices discuss our growing practices or the world. The first building on the farm scape,” said Jenelle M. Wilkins, and introducing orchard-raised and share the importance of In addition to orchards and property was a wayside tavern event manager. About 75% of laying hens and broiler chicktreading lightly on this beauti- flower gardens, the Quonquont built in 1759. clients come from outside the ens to the farm offerings. ful land,” Harris said, adding Farm has meadows, forest, a The farm now hosts some Pioneer Valley. The farm will be expanding that providing locally grown spring-fed pond and a brook. 50 events from May through “The farm property has so its popular fruit and flower farm subscription program to include vegetables, eggs and meat. The “The farm property has so much to offer — three historic barns, unusual tiled Firestone silos, an elegant 18thfarm store is closed for the seacentury farmhouse, lush flower gardens, beautiful old fruit orchards and a view that is spectacular in any season.” son but will reopen in July at the Jenelle M. Wilkins, event manager, Quonquont Farm start of blueberry season.

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M16 | SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2022

THE REPUBLICAN | MASSLIVE.COM

SUCCESS STORIES

Kielbasa maker stages yet another comeback Blue Seal marks 100 tasty years

By Jim Kinney

jkinney@repub.com

ielbasas are shaped somewhat like horseshoes, the symbol of good luck. That’s a contrast to the run of luck that the family-run Chicopee Provision Co., maker of Blue Seal Kielbasa, has dealt with in the last few years. First there was a flood in September 2019 that knocked it out of production and forced an almost total rehab of the building. Then, in July 2020, condensation started forming in the building, caused by a bad roof. And in October 2021, a natural gas explosion damaged the building and injured a worker who has since recovered. But the blast knocked out one of three smokehouses and that area of the factory is still walled off pending further repairs, said Carolyn Donnelly, one of the owners and the corporate secretary. Add to that the supply chain problems many in the food industry are facing: trouble getting pork, trouble getting spices and even trouble getting packaging like plastics and jars for pickled products. “We really feel that we have covered everything as far as disasters are concerned,”

Paul Tanguay, vice president of Chicopee Provision Co., checks a batch of Blue Seal Kielbasa in 2020. (DON TREEGER / THE REPUBLICAN)

“We really feel that we have covered everything as far as disasters are concerned. But we certainly don’t give up, as you can see.” CAROLYN DONNELLY, CHICOPEE PROVISION CO.

Donnelly said. “But we certainly don’t give up, as you can see.” Her great-grandfather, Jacob Sitarz, was one of the company founders back in 1920 along with his brother Stanley and a colleague named Bartlomiej Partyka. Today Chicopee Provision has 28 employees, a number that’s held steady over the years. It distributes across Western Massachusetts and into parts of Connecticut. It is credited with manufacturing

the world’s largest kielbasa, at 600 pounds. “We are very loyal to the product and loyal to the mission of making the kielbasa,” Donnelly said. “We feel that we have a great product. We are going to spread the kielbasa happiness as best we can, whatever life throws at us.” After last year’s explosion, Chicopee Provision briefly outsourced some of its production to another smokehouse to meet Christmas demand.

Chicopee Provision Co. has boasted the “World’s Largest Kielbasa” for years, including this one made in 1983 that weighed 236 pounds, was 25 feet long and 4 inches around. Pictured from left are John Frykenberg of the chamber of commerce, Fred Aickelin of the Fireball Club and Chicopee Provision Co. vice president Jerry Partyka. (THE REPUBLICAN FILE PHOTO)

pickled kielbasa and started again making its jalapeño and cheddar kielbasas. After that, the company plans to reintroduce its famous baked loaf. “If you’re Polish you grew up with it,” Donnelly said. “A lot of people miss it. Baked loaf on a sandwich. Baked loaf fried A fully cooked kielbasa roll with eggs for breakfast.” from Chicopee Provision Co. But with shipments of spices (HOANG ‘LEON’ NGUYEN / THE REPUBLICAN) delayed, it took 16 weeks for Chicopee Provision to source Production is back in-house one ingredient needed in the now. Even if it’s not at full baked loaf. capacity, Chicopee Provision As weather warms up and it is ramping back up. gets closer to cookout season, The company reintroduced Chicopee Provision will bring its kielbasa links and kielbasa back its hot dogs. patties about a month ago. In Donnelly said she and her late January, it started packing staff are looking to meet Easter

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demand. “We are not doing any shipping,” she said. “Certainly we want to be able to ship the kielbasa all over the country for Easter.” She said Chicopee Provision also had to limit the amount of product it would sell to customers who came to its Chicopee location. Today, it’s having trouble getting enough pork with processing plants shut down due to COVID. It’s a national problem, but rising prices put a special squeeze on companies like Chicopee Provision that cannot raise retail prices on short notice.

SEE KIELBASA, PAGE M18