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North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation approves financing for Country Pizza in Fitchburg

Posted on June 26th/in Chamber News, NCMDC /by northcentralmass

The North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), the economic development arm of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, recently approved financing of $122,500 for costs associated toward the purchase of Country Pizza, located at 6 Ashby State Road in Fitchburg. NewVue Communities assisted with developing the business plan for the ownership transition.

Established in 1989, Country Pizza has been serving the Fitchburg community for over 35 years, becoming a trusted neighborhood destination for families and pizza lovers alike. The business was recently sold to Sara J. Clark and Murry W. Clark, who plan to operate Country Pizza as a family business along with their son and daughter, who both currently work at the business.

Sara began working in the pizza industry as a teenager and has been serving customers at Country Pizza the past 15 years. Since 2022, she has served as manager of the business, which offers pizza, a variety of sandwiches, salads, subs, and traditional Italian dishes.

“The pizza business has been part of my life for a number of years, and I’m thrilled with the opportunity to continue serving our customers as the new owner of this long-standing business in Fitchburg,” said Sara Clark. “Country Pizza has been like a home to me, and I am grateful to the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation, NewVue Communities, and my family for not only supporting me in this endeavor but also believing in me and providing guidance so I could officially purchase the business that has given so much to me and my family over the years.”

As a microloan lender, NCMDC can provide loans to small businesses up to $250,000 for working capital, real estate, equipment, inventory, expansion and working with our banking partners to provide gap financing for the final piece of a project.

For more information about the NCMDC loan programs, please call 978.353.7607 or visit NorthCentralMass.com or ChooseNorthCentral.com.

Casey Brokerage: Simplifying Freight, One Shipment at a Time

Posted on June 25th/in Chamber News, Member Spotlight /by northcentralmass

For businesses across the region seeking efficient and stress-free freight solutions, Casey Brokerage in Leominster, MA, is a trusted partner. Though the company was originally established in 1984, it began a new chapter in January 2025 when Justin Boucher and his father took over operations. With decades of entrepreneurial experience under their belts, the Bouchers are dedicated to solving logistics challenges with a personal touch.

So, what exactly does Casey Brokerage do? As a freight brokerage firm, they connect shippers with carriers, ensuring that goods move smoothly, quickly, and reliably. But Justin is quick to point out that they’re “more than just a middleman.”

“We’re problem solvers,” says Boucher. “Our goal is to simplify freight logistics by providing reliable, personalized solutions that save time and reduce stress for our clients.”

At the core of Casey Brokerage is a strong commitment to customer service. The team prides itself on being available 24/7 by phone or email, providing peace of mind to clients who know help is always just a call away.

Though Casey Brokerage is their newest venture, Justin and his father are no strangers to running a business. They’ve co-owned and operated several successful companies together over the years, including:

Eastern Carrier Service – a same/next-day New England delivery service founded in 1994.
Leominster Transmission – which they managed for ten years before transitioning to new opportunities.

The father-son team brings a proven track record of dependable service and a collaborative, hands-on approach to everything they do. That experience has shaped the workplace culture at Casey Brokerage, one that values responsiveness, innovation, and integrity.

While they’re still settling into their latest role as freight brokers, Justin and his father are excited for what lies ahead. Their deep roots in North Central Massachusetts and decades of logistics experience position them well for growth and impact.

If you’re a business looking to streamline your shipping process or solve complex logistics challenges, Casey Brokerage is ready to help. For more information or to get in touch, reach out to Justin directly at or call 508-572-3822.

Tony Fields to Chair North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Posted on June 24th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

Tony Fields, president and CEO of Cleartech Group, an IT solutions provider based in Leominster, Massachusetts has been elected Chair of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce board of directors for 2025-2026. The announcement was made at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 12, 2025. As the Chair of the Chamber’s board of directors, he will work with fellow board members, Chamber staff, and membership, to champion the Chamber in its mission to serve the region’s business community.

Tony brings over three decades of technology industry experience to his new role. Growing up in a family immersed in computing—his father Tim Fields founded TAF Computer Services in the 1980s—Tony enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1992 as a Computer Operator, where he gained experience supporting Novell and Microsoft Networks. After his military service, he advanced through IT roles as a Network Administrator, Project Lead, and Senior Network Engineer before becoming an entrepreneur in 2004 with a Computer Troubleshooters franchise in Leominster.

In 2017, Tony founded Cleartech Group with the mission to “support businesses with technology that will allow them to grow and prosper.” Under his leadership, he grew his business from a home-based operation to a ten-employee Managed Service Provider.

A graduate of Park University, the Goldman Sachs 10KSB and SBA Emerging Leader program, Tony was recognized as the 2020 Massachusetts SBA Minority Owned Business of the Year. He is active in community youth programs and also serves as Chair of the Board of LUK, Inc. Fields joined the Chamber’s board of directors in 2021 and has served in leadership roles including Treasurer.

He succeeds Barbara Mahoney, president and CEO of All-One Credit Union, who now moves to the position of Immediate Past Chair of the board of directors.

“When I started my first business, the Chamber’s support was invaluable to me. Now, as a more seasoned entrepreneur, I have seen firsthand how the Chamber connects businesses and strengthens our communities,” said Fields. “My goal is to continue that momentum—supporting local businesses, attracting visitors to our region, and maintaining the collaborative spirit that makes North Central Massachusetts special.”

“Tony brings exactly what we need in a board chair—entrepreneurial insight, collaborative leadership, and genuine passion for our region,” said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “He understands both the challenges and opportunities facing our business community.”

In the same election, Allie Catlin, owner, Smith’s Country Cheese, located in Winchendon, was elected Vice Chair. Melissa Glenny, president, Franklin Professional Associates, located in Leominster, was elected to the position of Treasurer.

Board members elected for new terms were

Joseph Basile, president, Catania Oils, Ayer
Mark Hettinger, president and CEO, GFA Federal Credit Union, Gardner
Donna Hodge, president, Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg
Barbara Mahoney, president & CEO, All-One Credit Union, Leominster
Alex Matthews, general manager, Great Wolf Lodge New England, Fitchburg
Kayla Nault, owner of DeBonis & Davin Florist, Fitchburg; Sage Home Collections, Leominster; and Salt + Sage, Townsend

Continuing current terms on the board of directors are

Marieke Cormier, owner, Roots Natural Foods, Leominster
Chris Hendry, president & CEO, IC Credit Union, Fitchburg
John Heroux, president of Micro Machine & Electronics, Inc., Leominster
Patrick McCarty, president & CEO, McCarty Companies, Leominster
Nicole Moorshead, general manager, Chocksett Inn, Sterling and the Colonial Hotel, Gardner
David Moura, president, Moura’s Cleaning Service, Fitchburg
Joshua Page, president, JP Electric and Son, Fitchburg
Rodrigo Souza, owner, Comeketo Catering Services, Fitchburg
James Vander Hooven, president, Mount Wachusett Community College, Gardner

The Health Foundation Awards $250,000 to CHNA 9

Posted on June 24th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

In front of an audience of over 400 with hundreds more tuning in online at the Health Equity Trends Summit, Governor Maura Healey announced a new initiative in partnership with The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts and the Health Equity Partnership of North Central Mass (CHNA 9) to advance health equity in the Ayer region.

Governor Maura Healey announces the initiative. (HEC photo)

This is the latest Advancing Heath Equity in Massachusetts (AHEM) to be announced by the Healey-Driscoll administration and the first one in Central Massachusetts.

The Health Foundation has awarded a three-year, $250,000 grant to the Health Equity Partnership to support this work, which was covered by the State House News Service.

The summit was the third such event hosted by the Health Equity Compact, which brings together over 85 leaders of color who aim to advance health equity in Massachusetts. Compact members are high-level executives and experts from a diverse set of health, business, labor, and philanthropic organizations, including hospitals, health centers, payers, academic institutions, and public health.

The-Health-Foundation-Awards-$250,000-to-CHNA-9

(L-R) Health Equity Partnership Executive Director Chelsey Patriss, Executive Office of Health and Human Services Director of Health Policy and Strategic Initiatives Eliza Lake, and Foundation President and CEO Dr. Amie Shei. (THFCM photo)

LUK, Inc. Receives Funding from 100 Women Who Care Westford

Posted on June 24th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

LUK, Inc. was recently awarded the $10,000 Impact Award from the 100 Women Who Care of Greater Westford.

Launched in 2022, 100 Women Who Care is a Giving Circle comprised of women from Greater Westford with a desire to support nonprofits in the local community. The group gives to nonprofits quarterly and is one of more than 650 chapters of the 100+ Who Care Alliance across the globe.

LUK was nominated as the recipient of the award to support their Community Behavioral Health Clinic. The funds will help to provide safe and comforting spaces for therapy services and to offset LUK’s free care pool.

“LUK is so appreciative of the 100 Women Who Care,” says LUK President, Beth Barto. “Their donation will help children, youth, and families heal from challenging life events in a safe and supportive environment.”

LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.

For more information about LUK, Inc., visit www.LUK.org, call (800) 579-0000, or find us on Facebook (@LetUsKnowINC). Join us in building stronger communities, family by family!

United Way of North Central Massachusetts April Foods Drive Serves 900 Families

Posted on June 24th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

The United Way of North Central Massachusetts (UWNCM) has successfully completed its annual April Foods Drive, distributing more than 7,500 pounds of food—valued at $14,625—to local agencies. The drive provided essential nutrition to 900 families and a total of 2,250 individuals across the region.

From April through June, donation boxes were placed in libraries, schools, grocery stores, and partner businesses throughout North Central Massachusetts. Community members responded generously, filling the boxes with nutritious, non-perishable items for local families in need. In addition to community donations, UWNCM partnered with local food pantries to distribute the food and teamed up with Growing Places to include fresh, locally grown produce such as apples, lettuce and asparagus. To ensure a balanced supply of food, UWNCM also purchased additional staple items.

United-Way-of-North-Central-Massachusetts-April-Foods-Drive-Serves-900-Families

Volunteers from The Club: Lunenburg Teen Center — Mackenzie, Charlotte, Molly, Jules, and Andy — loaded donations into the car of Julie Meehan, Executive Director of the Gardner Community Action Committee, during the April Foods 2025 Drive.

The overall impact of the drive totaled $26,533, thanks to $10,332 in in-kind donations and the efforts of 21 volunteers, who contributed 52 hours of service—valued at $1,650.

UWNCM also extends special thanks to Local Roots Cannabis Crafted and Christ Church Fitchburg for their donations toward fresh produce, Catania Oil for contributing two pallets of cooking oil (110 cases), and Point32Health for providing bags and hand sanitizer to support the drive.

“No one in our community should have to worry about their next meal. This food drive is a powerful reminder that when we come together, we can make a real difference. Every donation, big or small, helps put food on someone’s table and hope in their heart,” said Judy Tomlinson, UWNCM Director of Community Impact.

Among the many dedicated volunteers were staff from The Club: Lunenburg Teen Center, who have supported the food drive for several years.

“We’ve been volunteering for UWNCM’s food drive twice a year for the past four years,” said Michelle Belleza, Executive Director of the Club. “It’s one way we can ‘LIVE UNITED’ and give back for all the support we receive—from funding to volunteers to training. Helping load up hundreds of pounds of food makes us feel like partners in this work, not just beneficiaries. The UWNCM is a vital part of our village, and we’re proud to support the broader community it serves.”

To learn more or find ways to support future food drives, visit www.uwncm.org.

Agencies receiving donations:
Catholic Charities Worcester County
Clear Path for Veterans New England
Community Pantry at Athol High School
Gardner CAC
Ginny’s Helping Hand, Inc.
Montachusett Veterans Outreach Center, Inc.
Lunenburg Community Food Pantry
The Society of St. Vincent De Paul Food Pantry at St. Joseph Church Fitchburg
Saint Leo’s Parish Church Food Pantry
The Salvation Army Athol Corps
The Salvation Army of Fitchburg/Leominster
The Spanish American Center, Inc.
Winchendon CAC
YMCA of Athol Food Pantry

Brittany Knowles recognized for outstanding leadership of Connect North Central networking program

Posted on June 24th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

Knowles honored at North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting for exceptional service as program chairperson

Brittany Knowles, owner of Bin There Dump That – Central Massachusetts, was recognized for her exceptional leadership as outgoing chairperson of the Chamber’s Connect North Central networking program during the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting on June 12, 2025.

Connect North Central is the Chamber’s monthly networking program that meets the last Friday of each month, providing opportunities for business professionals to build relationships, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that benefit the regional business community.

“Brittany has led our Connect North Central program with incredible enthusiasm and energy,” said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “She doesn’t just show up—she shows up ready to connect, collaborate, and champion other businesses in our region. Her genuine passion for building relationships and supporting fellow entrepreneurs embodies exactly what our Chamber is all about.”

Together with her husband Anthony, Knowles operates Bin There Dump That – Central Massachusetts, a locally owned and operated business that is both veteran and woman-owned. The company is dedicated to providing residential-friendly roll-off dumpster rentals throughout the region, serving homeowners and contractors with reliable waste management solutions.

Knowles’ involvement with the Chamber extends well beyond her leadership of Connect North Central. She also serves as a Chamber Ambassador, welcoming new members and representing the organization at ribbon cuttings and community events. Additionally, she is a 2025 graduate of the Chamber’s prestigious Community Leadership Institute, a nine-month program that develops emerging leaders through education on community issues, personal leadership development, and collaborative community projects.

Under Knowles’ leadership, the Connect North Central program has continued to thrive as a vital networking opportunity for Chamber members. Her commitment extends far beyond her role as chairperson—she is known as an enthusiastic Chamber member who regularly attends events, participates in various programs, and actively promotes networking opportunities to fellow business owners.

“Being involved with the Chamber and leading Connect North Central has been incredibly rewarding,” said Knowles. “There’s something special about bringing business leaders together and watching new relationships and collaborations form. Our region has so many talented entrepreneurs and business owners, and programs like Connect North Central help us support each other’s success.”

Knowles’ impact on the program reflects her broader commitment to the North Central Massachusetts business community. Her approach to leadership—focused on connection, collaboration, and genuine support for fellow businesses—has made Connect North Central a valuable resource for networking and professional development in the region.

The Connect North Central program continues to welcome new participants interested in expanding their professional networks and contributing to the regional business community. Business professionals interested in attending Connect North Central meetings or learning more about Chamber networking opportunities are encouraged to contact the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce at 978.353.7600 ext. 239 or visit northcentralmass.com.

Amanda Curtis named North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce 2025 Ambassador of the Year

Posted on June 24th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

Curtis recognized by fellow ambassadors for decade of outstanding service and dedication to chamber members in the North Central region

Amanda Curtis, Economic Development Coordinator at the City of Leominster, has been named the 2025 Ambassador of the Year by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. The announcement was made during the chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 12, 2025.

Chamber Ambassadors are valued volunteers to the Chamber who serve as the face of the organization in the community. They assist the Chamber with communications to new and existing members, participate in ribbon cuttings and help connect members at various Chamber events. Curtis was voted Ambassador of the Year by her fellow Chamber Ambassadors at their May meeting.

“We are grateful to Amanda for her extraordinary dedication and active involvement in the Chamber over the past decade as we work to advance our goals throughout the 27 communities that comprise our region,” said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “Amanda has been an exceptional Ambassador, known for her tireless energy, infectious sense of humor, and genuine care for our business community. Her commitment has never wavered, even as her career has taken her to different organizations.”

What makes this recognition particularly special is that this marks the second time Curtis has earned the Ambassador of the Year honor during her ten-year tenure with the Chamber. Throughout this time, she has worked at three different companies yet maintained her unwavering dedication to serving as a Chamber Ambassador, demonstrating remarkable loyalty to the organization and the North Central Massachusetts business community.

Curtis currently serves as Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Leominster, where she works to attract new businesses and support existing ones in the community. Her professional experience in economic development, combined with her deep knowledge of the Chamber’s members and programs, makes her an invaluable connector and advocate for regional business growth.

A lifelong resident of the North Central Massachusetts region, Curtis was born in Leominster and grew up in Winchendon, graduating from Murdock High School. She earned an associate degree in Human Services from Mount Wachusett Community College and a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Fitchburg State University. Curtis brings extensive experience in community outreach and communications to her role, having previously served as Community Outreach Specialist at UMass HealthAlliance-Clinton Hospital and in various roles at LUK, Inc., where she recruited volunteer mentors for local youth. Her commitment to community service extends beyond her professional work – she has served as a personal mentor for over six years, previously chaired the Chamber’s HYPE (Helping Young Professionals Emerge) program, and served on the Board of Trustees for Mount Wachusett Community College from 2016 to 2019. She has also served on various non-profit boards and committees in Leominster and Fitchburg for over 20 years. Curtis joined the City of Leominster staff in 2021, bringing her enthusiasm for connecting people and businesses with her deep love for the community where her extended family has roots.

“Serving as an Ambassador offers me a unique opportunity to connect more deeply with Chamber members while also developing meaningful relationships with businesses throughout our region,” said Curtis. “Through ribbon cuttings, new member events and other networking opportunities, I’m able to see firsthand the incredible advantages and support our Chamber brings to its members and our entire region. It’s been an honor to serve in this capacity for ten years.”

Business leaders interested in learning more about the Chamber’s Ambassador program or becoming involved as volunteers are encouraged to contact the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce at 978.353.7600 ext. 239. The Ambassador program provides meaningful opportunities to connect with fellow business professionals while supporting the growth and success of the regional business community.

Explore Careers in the Roofing Trades

Posted on June 24th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

Red Dog’s Community Roofing Day is more than just shingles and nails — it’s your chance to experience the trades up close and discover how a hands-on career can build a bright future!

️ ️Thursday, July 10
10 AM – 2 PM
The Colonial Hotel, Gardner, MA
️️ FREE & open to the public!

What’s in store:
• Hands-on stations & live demos
• Meet local pros & passionate tradespeople
• National Women in Roofing on site
• Fun prizes & giveaways
• Live Panel + Q&A about career paths in the trades!

Whether you’re a student, parent, educator, or just curious — this event is for YOU.

Come learn, explore, and get inspired. Let’s build something better — together.

Leominster Crossings Open House

Posted on June 18th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

Join Benchmark Senior Living at Leominster Crossings for an Open House Tour! Stroll our scenic grounds, explore beautifully designed spaces, and savor a signature cocktail and gourmet bites.

Meet our dedicated team and experience the vibrant, enriching lifestyle our residents enjoy every day. Then, relax in the courtyard with chef-prepared appetizers, refreshing cocktails, and live entertainment-and feel the energy that makes Leominster Crossings truly special.

Come see why our residents helped us earn a place among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Assisted Living Communities.

THE DETAILS

Thursday, June 26th
4 – 6 PM
Benchmark Senior Living at Leominster Crossings
1160 Main Street
Leominster, MA

RSVP by 06/23/25 to Rob Guinard 978-537-2424 OR

Drop-In Coffee Hour with the Gardner Master Plan Team

Posted on June 18th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

Drop-In Coffee Hour with the Gardner Master Plan Team
Tuesday, June 24, 8-9 am
Victoria Coffee, 24 Main St., Gardner

The City of Gardner is preparing a new master plan, the first update since the last master plan 50 years ago. You can learn more about the project here.

The project consultants – Barrett Planning Group LLC and BSC Group – will be at Victoria Coffee on Tuesday, June 24, from 8 to 9 am for a drop-in discussion about the project for local organization leaders and business owners.

Come learn more about the project and share your organization or business’s experience of Gardner today, and your hopes for the city’s future! There won’t be a formal presentation but we will have materials about the plan, and we look forward to hearing how we can incorporate your organization or business’s work and constituents into the master plan.

There will be other opportunities for the wider Garnder public to participate in the plan development, but at this coffee hour we are hoping to speak with as many local organization leaders and business owners as possible!

If you have any questions about the event or the project overall, please contact Jenn Doherty at Barrett Planning Group LLC () or Jason Stevens, Director of Gardner’s Community Development & Planning Department ().

Catania Oils Career Fair

Posted on June 18th/in Member News /by northcentralmass

Catania Oils is opening its’ doors this summer for all enthusiastic job seekers! Join us Wednesday June 25th for our 2025 Career Fair. From production roles like Machine Operators and Bulk Technicians to Packaging Engineers and Product Onboarding Specialists, Catania has your next opportunity waiting! Check out our flyer for more details, and we’ll see you there!

Date – Wednesday June 25th, 2025
Location – Catania Oils, 90 Nemco Way, Ayer, MA 01432
Time – 11am-3pm

For more information, please contact:
Josh Gallant
Talent Acquisition Specialist
978-294-8861

Click Here for More Job Opportunities

Latest News

All Latest News

North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation approves financing for Country Pizza in Fitchburg

Casey Brokerage: Simplifying Freight, One Shipment at a Time

Tony Fields to Chair North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

The Health Foundation Awards $250,000 to CHNA 9

LUK, Inc. Receives Funding from 100 Women Who Care Westford

United Way of North Central Massachusetts April Foods Drive Serves 900 Families

Brittany Knowles recognized for outstanding leadership of Connect North Central networking program

Amanda Curtis named North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce 2025 Ambassador of the Year

Explore Careers in the Roofing Trades

Leominster Crossings Open House

Drop-In Coffee Hour with the Gardner Master Plan Team

Catania Oils Career Fair

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce

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