News/Business
A true-to-the-plant approach: Easthampton natives finding success manufacturing hemp products in hilltowns
By SAMUEL GELINAS
CHESTER — When the retail cannabis industry was paving its way in 2019, advocates for the drug steered away from the stereotype of a reclining, Cheetos-eating stoner and instead promoted the idea that cannabis is a cure-all for a variety of ailments. “It’s natural” was a common mantra.
Tariffs hit home for small business in Hadley
By SCOTT MERZBACH
HADLEY — Before 2,000 cases of V-One Vodka produced in a Kamień, Poland, factory can be unloaded from a cargo ship, set to arrive in Port Elizabeth, N.J., next week, company founder Paul Kozub will have to pay the U.S. government an $8,000 fee.
Area property deed transfers, April 18
AMHERST
Economic Secretary Hao leaving Healey’s cabinet
By COLIN A. YOUNG
BOSTON — Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao is stepping down from her port at the end of the month, with Undersecretary of Economic Foundations Ashley Stolba in line to take over the secretary’s duties on an interim basis, the Healey administration said Tuesday.
Dave’s Hot Chicken plans advance in Hadley; used car dealership eyed across from Hopkins
By SCOTT MERZBACH
HADLEY — Recent demolition of a former bank at 5 South Maple St. will make way for a new building housing a fast-food restaurant specializing in Nashville hot chicken.
With $402K grant, South Deerfield company with focus on supercapacitors poised to expand
By CHRIS LARABEE
SOUTH DEERFIELD — Over the last year, an energy storage solutions research and development company focusing on supercapacitors has been settling into its new facility off of Routes 5 and 10.
Making News in Business, April 11
EASTHAMPTON — Maria Colpak, manager of customer service at Cumberland Farms in Easthampton, recently received an award from the New England Convenience Store & Energy Marketers Association.
Here come the sweetness: Four new businesses prepping to open in downtown Northampton
By ALEXANDER MACDOUGALL
NORTHAMPTON — Downtown Northampton is about to get a whole lot sweeter.
Area property deed transfers, April 4
AMHERST
Making News in Business, April 4
HOLYOKE — Job seekers across western Massachusetts are invited to a “Get Hired Job Fair” at Holyoke Mall on Wednesday, April 9, from 1 to 4 p.m., on the lower level in Macy’s Court.
Consumer Corner with Anita Wilson: Spam texts a growing threat to consumers
Have you gotten a text message saying you owe money for unpaid tolls?
Spreading the Mexican spice: After five years in Florence, Masa Mexicano spreads its wings with second location in Belchertown
By EMILEE KLEIN
BELCHERTOWN — Before chef Saul Ayala cooked in decorated Italian restaurants and high-end bars in Boston, Dallas and New York City, he learned about working in a kitchen from his cousin Roberto Saravia, owner of Masa Mexicano in Florence.
Area property deed transfers, March 28
AMHERST
Making News in Business, March 28
NORTHAMPTON — The Downtown Northampton Association (DNA) has appointed Amanda Shafii as its new board president. A dedicated business owner and community advocate, Shafii brings experience and passion for the city’s downtown vibrancy to her new role.
Mill River Music jams: Northampton guitar shop relocates to larger digs on King Street
By SCOTT MERZBACH
NORTHAMPTON — On an early March weekend, as numerous musicians took the stage at venues across the city for the Back Porch Music Festival, some spent a portion of their downtime at Mill River Music and Guitars, relaxing on the store’s couches, surrounded by hundreds of acoustic and electric guitars displayed on the walls.
Area property deed transfers, March 21
AMHERST
Making News in Business, March 21
NORTHAMPTON — The Northwestern district attorney has made promotions and other staffing changes following the departure of three prosecutors for legal positions in other state and federal agencies.
Belchertown rolls out welcome mat for businesses
By EMILEE KLEIN
BELCHERTOWN — When Town Manager Steve Williams goes on the road to advertise Belchertown as a viable, business-friendly community, business owners admit to him that they never considered the town as a potential home for their company.
The Roost set to close in Northampton after 14 years
By ALEXANDER MACDOUGALL
NORTHAMPTON — The Roost, a coffee shop located at the corner of Main and Market streets, announced on social media that it will be closing down permanently, although hinted at a potential new business may be reborn from the closure.
Area property deed transfers, March 14
AMHERST
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