Holyoke Chamber

 

The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce is sending weekly event updates to our friends and members. These updates will include Chamber, civic, and organizational news, events and entertainment.

 

Our goal is to keep our Chamber and Community members informed and engaged in local events. We invite you to discover the creative pulse that makes Holyoke such a great place to live and to visit.  We will also, on occasion, include information on regional events that might be of interest to our Chamber and Communtity members.

 

If you would like to include a company or civic event please do so by submitting it on the Chamber's website at holyokechamber.com and clicking on "Submit a Community Event".

 

  

 

 
 
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Member Spotlight 

 

  

 

For more than two decades, O'Connell Care at Home has taken the words "Understand I am more" to heart. They consider the needs of every individual and family they work with-physical, social, and emotional-and deliver the most complete home healthcare and staffing services in the Pioneer Valley.

O'Connell Care at Home services, range from nursing care and geriatric healthcare management, to advocacy and transportation, are performed by some of the most highly trained and fully accredited personnel in the state. No matter what it is you need, O'Connell Care at home is there to provide-or help you find-the services that best address your unique situation. 

 

 They are located in Holyoke but service all surrounding towns including Easthampton, Northampton, South Hadley, Holyoke, Agawam, Wilbraham and Springfield, as well as all of Hampden and Hampshire Counties.

 

Home is one of many things that make a person more. But changes in health can affect an individual's feelings about home, as much as it affects their physical condition. Fear and confinement. Frustration. A feeling of being a burden. O'Connell Care at Home helps restore their clients to the people they are and have always been-body, mind, and soul.

 

As a privileged guest in their lives they take the time to listen, learning about their lives, families, and medical histories. By applying a holistic approach-going beyond the textbook diagnosis and treatments, to the things that matter to them most-O'Connell Care at Home can tend to their personal needs, in addition to treating their medical ones, helping return them, and their families, to the life and "home" they love.


HOLYOKE NEWS

HOMEOWNERSHIP DAYS City Hall Moon

 

Holyoke, MA - On Tuesday October 29, 2013 at 1:00 p.m., Mayor Morse held a press conference at 1144 Hampden Street to "cut the ribbon" on a new and exciting homeownership opportunity.

 

 Viva Development, Inc. is constructing a brand new energy efficient duplex at 1144 Hampden Street - a former vacant lot.  The home construction is financed in part with $226,600 of US Department of Housing and Urban Development  (HUD) HOME Investment Partnership Funds provided through the City of Holyoke Office for Community Development.  Homebuyers must be income-eligible and the owner-occupant of the home.  

  

As part of Homeownership Day 2013, the City of Holyoke is pleased to announce a second homeownership opportunity at 294-296 Chestnut Street.  Olde Holyoke Development Corporation is building a brand new energy efficient duplex at a former vacant lot at 294-296 Chestnut Street.  The home construction is financed in part with $153,660 of US Department of Housing and Urban Development  (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds provided through the City of Holyoke Office for Community Development.  Homebuyers must be income-eligible and the owner-occupant of the home.

   

"Homeownership provides an opportunity to strengthen the fabric of our neighborhoods and encourages the many renters in the City of Holyoke to remain here," said Mayor Morse. "Homeownership has been a key tool in my efforts to revitalize the City of Holyoke and I urge potential buyers to contact my office for more information.   I give special thanks to both Viva Development, Inc. and Olde Holyoke Development Corporation for their willingness to invest in Holyoke."

  

For more information please contact the Mayor's Office at 413-322-5510.

 

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 HOLYOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY

 

Holyoke, MA - Monday, October 28 has been set as the first full day of operations for the recently renovated and greatly expanded Holyoke Public Library, and Mayor Alex Morse, State Representative Aaron Vega and Library Director Maria Pagan invite members of the press on VIP tour on Monday, October 28 at 2PM at its permanent location at 250 Chestnut Street.

 

"That day will mark the beginning of a new era for the Holyoke Public Library as we welcome patrons back to this exciting new environment," said director, Maria G. Pagan.

 

Effective that week, the Library will return to its customary Fall/Winter schedule of Monday through Thursday, 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM. On Friday and Saturday, hours will be from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM.

 

An official Grand Opening program is currently in the planning stages and is scheduled for Friday, November 22 at 11:00 AM. The program is expected to include several guest speakers including area, state and local leaders and members of the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners. The program will also include a traditional ribbon cutting, tours of the building, and refreshments will be served.

  

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Innovating for Growth: A Gateway Cities Symposium

 

  Mayor Alex B. Morse discussed Holyoke's strategies and potential Monday in Worcester at the state-sponsored "Innovating for Growth: A Gateway Cities Symposium."

"It was a great event. Holyoke was featured," Morse said.

 

Holyoke is one of 26 gateway cities, which the state defines as cities that add to the state's "overall economic success by taking advantage of their distinctive ability to be desirable locations for innovators, entrepreneurs and businesses and places where people with choices choose to live." The event was held at Worcester Polytechnic Institute. 

 

 Members from the Office of Economic Development Office and the Greater HOlyoke Chamber of Commerce also attended. 

 

CHAMBER MEMBER NEWS

 

INTERNATIONALLY ACCLAIMED AUTHOR TO VISIT

 HOLYOKE PUBLIC LIBRARY 

 

Dr. Oliver Akamnonu, originally from Africa, but now a United States Citizen and popular author of a total of 19 books covering a wide range of subjects, will make a special guest appearance at Holyoke Public Library, Wednesday evening, October 30, at 6:00 PM. His presentation is open to the public free of charge. Dr. Akamnonu will read selections from several of his books, including his latest, "The Pagans Medals," which was just released last Thursday.

 

Dr. Akamnonu has been a resident of the United States since 2006 and has been widely read in New York and Hollywood literary circles, resulting in several of his works being "short listed" for possible film production. Among the most popular of his books is "Suppers of Many Dishes," which is one of the works from which he will be reading at Wednesday evening's presentation. Widely acclaimed as a popular "young adult" book, it tells the story of a village boy in Africa and his experience growing up in surroundings vastly different from our own.

 

"The Pagans Medals," his latest effort, which is virtually making its debut at Holyoke Public Library, covers a coming together of primitive religions and cultures with contemporary western societies and civilizations. Dr. Akamnonu's writings range from stories of intrigue, corruption and betrayal to relating the story of his family's journey to America, a story of survival.

 

Critics have describe Dr. Akamnonu's writing as "captivating, light-hearted, direct and fascinating...certain to amuse and entertain readers."  Wednesday evening's program, which will be held in the library's new Community Room, is open to the public without charge, however, reservations are recommended. Reservations can be made by calling the library at its new number: (413)-420-8101, or by registering at the library's circulation desk.

 

Holyoke Mall Welcomes British Brand, Lipsy

Holyoke, MA  - Holyoke Mall is celebrating another Grand Opening on October 30th with celebrity coveted brand, Lipsy!  The young British fashion brand brings the latest celebrity fashions and designer catwalk creations to the high street. 

 

Lipsy is the go-to women's fashion label for fashion lovers as well as for those looking for the perfect party dress. 

 

With exclusive collections from some of the most popular female celebrities, including collaboration with pop sensation and style icon Pixie Lott - Lipsy is the destination of choice for style conscious fashionistas.  Lipsy always has an eye on the latest trends, and it offers an array of stylish looks, from the perfect dress, elegant daywear, to the most eye catching party looks to make her look and feel amazing.

"It's like having your own red carpet moment and having the time of your life!" - lipsy.co.uk

 

Lipsy is located on the upper level near Target.

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Holyoke Mall at Ingleside is a 1.6 million square foot enclosed shopping center in Holyoke, MA that is located at the "Crossroads of New England" at the Intersection of I-90 and I-91, drawing customers from four states including MA, CT, VT and NH.  Western New England's largest shopping destination with over 18 million visitors per year, Holyoke Mall has nearly 200 specialty shops, restaurants and department stores including Macy's, Target, Apple, Pottery Barn and Uno Chicago Grill.  For more information regarding new stores and special events, please visit www.holyokemall.com.  You may also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

Halloween

 in HOLYOKE

   
  

Trick-or-treaters are invited to stop at Fire Department headquarters at 600 High St. Oct. 30 for candy, magic and more.  From 2 to 6 p.m., children 12 and younger will get shows, karate demonstrations and treats, as well as displays of vehicles from the National Guard, state and local police and fire, Department of Public Works and AMR Ambulance, a Fire Department press release said.

The event is sponsored by SAFE Kids Inc. and McDonald's restaurant, the press release said.

 

 Click here for more information

http://www.masslive.com/news/index.ssf/2013/10/holyoke_spooky_headquarters_as.html

  
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Wistariahurst Museum will offer its Historic Cemetery Walks on Sunday at 3 p.m. in the daylight and at 6 p.m. as the skies darken. Reservations are required for the tours, which are $10 and $7 for members, by calling (413) 322-5660.

 

 

  

 

  

 

  
In This Issue

Reader Raves

Thank you from the Chamber

Business Section  

 

 It's that time of year.  Once again, the Republican/El Pueblo News is offering the opportunity to voice our opinions for the "Best" of almost everything in the Greater Springfield Area. 

 

This gives us an opportunity to thank you again for voting the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce the "Best Chamber of Commerce" for 2013. 

 

We have been working even harder now to live up to your expectations and we don't plan on disappointing you . . .  ever. 

 

The image above provides a link to the Business voting section.

 

Please support your fellow Chamber members and local businesses by thinking of them as you  cast your vote for your favorites . . .  and don't forget to vote for your favorite Chamber of Commerce! 

Have you Moved?

Update Your Information 

 

 

 We are updating our Business Resource Guide for 2014.

Please contact our office at 413-534-3376

if you have moved or changed any of your business information:

telephone/fax number

 email address

contact information

(new director, president, etc.)

so that we may publish your updated listing.

Craft Fair

 

craft fair A

 

 Nov. 10. from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish

435 Maple St., Holyoke

food and raffles

"Cultural Meat Pie Contest" at 10 a.m.

For information call (413) 536-6557.

Last Day for
Holyoke Farmers Market

  farmers market   

 Farmers Market

 

Stop by every Thursday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on High Street in front of City Hall.

The market offers fruit, vegetables, meat and eggs from local farmers and vendors and runs every Thursday through October.

Skinner Servants' Tour

 

 Wistariahurst

 

 

It's 1927 - Holyoke. The mansion is in chaos. The mill owner's daughter demands perfection and the housekeeper is losing her mind. Join us behind the scenes in the home of the Skinner family, manufacturers of nationally renowned silks and satins. The Skinner Servants' Tour reveals the disparate lives of the rich and the poor, and the compelling relationship between them. Visit Holyoke's very own Downton Abbey.

Holyoke Medical Center

Diabetes Self Management

Holyoke Medical Center

Diabetics and their families are invited to attend this program on diabetes self management. The program offers a team approach to helping participants make better judgments about their care and to promote independence. Sessions will focus on what diabetes is, medication, diet, and the role exercise plays. This program is held five times a year, the first Thursday of the month during January, March, May, September and November.

Date: November 7, 2013
Time: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Place: Fran Como Conference Room

To Register: please call (413) 534-2789 between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

Holyoke Merry Go Round

Events 

Please mark your calendars for Tuesday, Dec. 31, 2013 as the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round and the Children's Museum at Holyoke proudly present the 17th annual "First Night Jr."  This fun filled event will be 10-4 pm and includes 6 hours of non stop fun and activities as only Holyoke's Heritage State Park can do!  This family friendly event includes admission to the Children's Museum and Volley Ball Hall of Fame, unlimited rides on the Merry-Go-Round, magic shows, balloon sculptures, musical performers, and so much more!  Tickets go on sale, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013 and are $6.00 in advance. Tickets can be purchased at the Merry-Go-Round or Children's Museum during business hours. For more information, please call the Merry-Go-Round (413) 538-9838 or the Children's Museum (413) 536-7048.

 

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Book Lover's Day at the

Holyoke Merry-Go-Round

 

On Saturday, Nov. 2, 2013, come celebrate Book Lover's Day at the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round!  Bring in a new copy of your favorite children's book and we will donate it to a local day care and we will treat you to a free ride!  The Holyoke Merry-Go-Round is open Saturdays and Sundays, 12-4 PM and we will be open Monday, Nov. 11th, 11-4 PM for Veteran's Day.  For more information, please call (413) 538-9838 or visit our web site www.holyokemerrygoround.org.

 

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Warming Tree

 

Once again the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round will began collecting donations of new winter hats, mittens and gloves for our "Warming Tree".  Last year, thanks to so many generous donors, we were able to donate over 200 sets of hats and mittens to a local charity and they were handed out to local residents who needed a little help. For every hat and/mitten or gloves you donate this holiday season, you will receive a ticket for a free ride on the Holyoke Merry-Go-Round.  All donations can be dropped off during regular business hours of Saturdays and Sundays, 12-4.  We will be open Monday, November 11, 2013 from 11-4 for Veteran's Day.  For more information, please call (413) 538-9838 or visit our web site www.holyokemerrygoround.org.

 

 

Jazz at the

Clarion Hotel

 

Thursday October 31 ~ Wildcat O'Halloran

Friday November 1 ~ Claire Arenius Trio
featuring vocalist Wanda Houston

Saturday November 2 ~ The Joe Blemont Jazz Guitar Trio  with Jason Schwartz on bass, Claire Arenius on drums  and special guest Don Mikkelsen on trombone

Tuesday November 5 ~ Northampton Jazz Workshop  with Paul Combs and Jim Cameron on saxes with Tadd Dameron tribute.

Tuesdays for the Jazz Workshop
and Jam Session 7:30 - 10:30pm

Delaney House

 

"Perfect Pairing" is the theme of a wine dinner being held at the Delaney House in Holyoke on Nov. 8.

Priced at $35 (not including tax or tip), the evening will feature a four-course menu designed to harmonize with a selection of four different wines.

The evening starts at 6 p.m.; dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. Contact the Delaney House at (413) 532-1800 for information and reservations.

 

  

PIONEER VALLEY USO

BREAKFAST

The Pioneer Valley USO will hold its third annual Armed Forces Appreciation Breakfast at the Log Cabin Banquet and Meeting House, 500 Easthampton Road, Holyoke, on Nov. 11.

Breakfast will be served from 8 to 11 a.m. Keynote speaker will be Col. Steven Vaultrain, commander of the 439th Airlift Wing at Westover Air Reserve Base.

Tickets and table reservations should be made by calling Allan Tracy, executive director of the USO at (413) 557-3290 or (413) 313-5695.

 

Other Events

October 31

South Hadley Halloween Events

 Haunted Hayride at McCray's Farm and Country Creamery

 55 Alvord St. 

 7 p.m. ends when there is no more line

as late as 11 p.m.

$20 and $15 for those under 52 inches

Munchkin Hayride 

5:45 p.m. - last ride going out at 6:45 p.m. T

$5 per person. For more information, call the farm at (413) 533-0775 or visit mccrays-farm.com
 

 Friday, November 1

RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE

Dean Technical High

School, 1045 Main Street, Holyoke. Fri., Nov. 1 from 9

a.m.-3 p.m. To make an appointment to donate blood,

please call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or log

onto redcrossblood.org.

 

Saturday, November 12

SKI & SNOWBOARD SALE. South Hadley Lions

Club will have a Ski & Snowboard Sale, from entry

level to expert new and used equipment, Sat., Nov. 2

at South Hadley High School from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. No

equipment will be accepted to sell.

 

Saturday and Sunday

November 1 and 2

FIBER FEST

Eastern States Exposition and the New England Sheep and Wool Growers Association will co-produce the fourth annual Fiber Festival of New England in the Mallary Complex.

Show hours are Saturday, 9am to 5pm

and Sunday, 9am to 3pm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holyoke Chamber | 413-534-3376 | [email protected] 
http://www.holyokechamber.com/
177 High Street
Holyoke, MA 01040
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 Have a fun and safe
Halloween Night
 
Happy Halloween!

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