MassHire events at the Greenfield Public Library
GREENFIELD — On Monday, Feb. 9, from 10 a.m.-noon, representatives from MassHire Franklin Hampshire Career Center will be at the Greenfield Public Library, highlighting job opportunities currently available at the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR).
DCR manages state parks and oversees more than 450,000 acres throughout the state. It protects, promotes and enhances the state’s natural, cultural and recreational resources. The state agency is currently looking to fill positions for lifeguards, pool attendants, water safety instructors and supervisors.
For more information, visit www.masshirefhcareers.org, or call 413-774-4361.
This program is free and intended for ages 18 and up.
Also at the library, on Tuesday afternoons, from 2:30-4:30 p.m., young adult career counselors from MassHire Franklin Hampshire hold office hours just outside the Teen Room. There, young adults can learn more about resume writing and interviewing skills as well as youth-friendly jobs and internships.
For more information, contact Francesca Passiglia at francesca.passiglia@greenfield-ma.gov or call 413-772-1544, ext. 5120.
Eversource issues scam warning, offers tips for customers
BOSTON — While the busy holiday season has come to a close, scammers pretending to be utility company employees are not slowing down with their deceptive schemes. With customers across Massachusetts adjusting back into their routines for the new year, impostors are often looking to take advantage, posing as Eversource representatives and threatening to disconnect customers’ power unless they make an immediate payment. The energy company is reminding residents and business owners to remain vigilant and always be on the lookout for the telltale signs of scams — whether it’s in person, over the phone, or online.
“One of the biggest red flags to be aware of is if you are asked for instant payment over the phone or by using other untraceable methods like gift cards, prepaid debit cards or Bitcoin — that is something we will never ask of our customers and almost a sure sign you’re being scammed,” said Eversource Senior Vice President of Customer Operations and Digital Strategy Jared Lawrence. “If you ever doubt who you’re talking to is legitimate, don’t be afraid to hang up and give us a call at 800-592-2000 to verify the status of your account.”
As customers shop for third-party suppliers to lower their energy costs, another con to be aware of is people coming to the door and using deceptive marketing tactics to convince customers to switch energy suppliers. In Massachusetts, EnergySwitchMA.gov is the only official site managed by the Department of Public Utilities where customers can safely shop for energy.
The Department of Public Utilities also advises customers to stay informed about recent scams by visiting their website and contacting the DPU Consumer Division for assistance at 617-737-2836 or dpuconsumer.complaints@mass.gov.
Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly names Springfield attorney a ‘Go To Lawyer’ for Commercial Real Estate
SPRINGFIELD — Shatz, Schwartz and Fentin, P.C., a regional law firm with offices in Springfield and Northampton, has announced that shareholder Michael A. Fenton has been named a 2025 “Go To Lawyer” in the field of commercial real estate by Massachusetts Lawyers Weekly. The annual list recognizes less than 40 attorneys who demonstrate excellence in their practice area and are regarded as leaders by their peers. Fenton is the only lawyer from western Massachusetts to be named to this list.
Fenton, who has practiced law for more than a decade, was recognized for his extensive work in commercial real estate and finance, including tax-exempt bond financing and business planning. His passion for the field began early in his career.
“From the beginning, I was drawn to the unique challenges and opportunities that come with commercial real estate law,” said Fenton. “Whether it’s navigating zoning issues, resolving title complexities, facilitating financing packages or supporting a major development project, I take pride in finding creative and effective solutions that help my clients move forward.”
Fenton’s legal practice is marked by a deep understanding of title work, financing, permitting and development — skills that make him an invaluable resource for both clients and colleagues. In addition to his legal work, he has served as a member of the Springfield City Council for more than 16 years. He currently serves as an adjunct professor of corporate finance at Western New England University School of Law and is actively involved in civic and nonprofit organizations, including the Conservation Law Foundation’s Legal Services Food Hub.