At Xochimilco Mexican Cuisine, every guest is welcomed into a dining experience that goes beyond just food. Since opening this year, owner Catalino Mateo has made it his mission to create a space where people can enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in a comfortable and inviting environment. Catalino emphasizes that what sets Xochimilco apart is the combination of excellent food, attentive customer service, and a relaxing atmosphere where customers can fully enjoy their experience.
“Our goal is to provide a space where customers can enjoy authentic Mexican flavors in a comfortable setting,” Catalino says. “It is about creating an experience that feels like home and leaves people looking forward to their next visit.”
The restaurant’s success is fueled by a workplace culture focused on experience, respect, and dedication. Catalino carefully selects team members who embody these qualities, ensuring that each interaction reflects the values of Xochimilco. Guests not only enjoy flavorful meals but also experience a level of hospitality that makes them feel appreciated and welcomed.
Building Strong Community Connections
Catalino values the strong sense of community found in North Central Massachusetts. He points out that the people in the region are supportive, approachable, and willing to help local businesses succeed. Joining the Chamber of Commerce has been an important step for Xochimilco in building connections and becoming more involved in community initiatives. Catalino looks forward to collaborating with other members and contributing to events and activities that make the region a vibrant place to live and work.
Looking Ahead
With a foundation built on passion and dedication, Xochimilco Mexican Cuisine has a bright future. Catalino credits mentors and family members, including Richard, Nancy De La Rosa, and Maribel Cruz, for their guidance and support along the way. Beyond the restaurant, Catalino has also achieved success in other business ventures and real estate, demonstrating a commitment to hard work and determination.
Promotion for the restaurant comes through social media, word of mouth, and engagement with the local community. Catalino’s dedication to quality service, authentic cuisine, and building meaningful connections ensures that Xochimilco Mexican Cuisine is not only a place to enjoy great food but also a valued part of the Fitchburg community.
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In today’s increasingly eco-conscious world, businesses that marry innovation with environmental responsibility are carving a vital path forward. One such trailblazer is Tough Stuff Recycling, a young yet dynamic company that has quickly emerged as a leader in the specialized recycling industry. Founded in 2022, this Fitchburg, Massachusetts-based operation is already making a significant impact across the Northeast by tackling one of the most overlooked areas in waste management: the recycling of mattresses, box springs, electronic waste, and bulky furniture items.
A New Generation of Recycling Services
Tough Stuff Recycling was established with a clear mission—to provide environmentally responsible solutions for hard-to-recycle materials. Over the past three years, the company has grown steadily, building relationships with municipalities, commercial waste haulers, hospitality businesses, universities, and major retailers. What sets Tough Stuff apart is its unwavering focus on reclaiming valuable materials that often end up in landfills. Through its advanced recycling systems, the company extracts foam, steel, textiles, and wood, helping reduce landfill dependency and supporting a broader shift toward a circular economy. This innovative model not only diverts thousands of pounds of waste from disposal but also contributes to sustainable material recovery and reuse.
High-Tech Facilities and Customer-Centric Solutions
At the heart of Tough Stuff Recycling’s operations is a state-of-the-art recycling facility located in Fitchburg, a strategically chosen site that underscores the company’s commitment to regional economic development and environmental stewardship. The facility features cutting-edge technology designed specifically to handle complex materials, with processes that are continually refined to achieve higher efficiency and material recovery rates. The company’s services are designed for convenience as well as impact. Customers can choose between curbside pickup and drop-off services, both aimed at making mattress and furniture recycling accessible to households and businesses alike. These flexible options demonstrate the company’s dedication to both service and sustainability.
Innovation at the Core
One of the hallmarks of Tough Stuff Recycling is its investment in innovation. The company stands out for its automated, high-throughput processing systems, including the first-of-its-kind machinery specifically developed for recycling pocket coil mattresses. This innovation alone has helped reclaim over 25 million pounds of steel from used mattresses—an achievement that showcases the scale of their environmental impact. With a forward-thinking mindset, the company is already integrating technologies such as artificial intelligence and automation to further streamline operations. These systems help sort and process materials more efficiently while lowering the company’s overall carbon footprint.
Culture and Community: A Dual Commitment
Inside the facility and beyond, Tough Stuff Recycling boasts a workplace culture rooted in passion, responsibility, and impact. The team is described as hardworking and mission-driven, unified by the goal of making tangible environmental improvements. According to spokesperson Mary Horsman, the company seeks employees who are “motivated, dependable, and driven to make a real environmental impact.” This values-based hiring approach has helped cultivate a strong internal culture that aligns with the company’s broader sustainability goals. Equally important is the company’s connection to its community, particularly North Central Massachusetts. “Fitchburg offers a strong sense of community and a strategic location for logistics,” Horsman notes. The region’s business-friendly environment and workforce have played a key role in Tough Stuff’s early success, providing a fertile ground for growth and collaboration.
Advocacy, Education, and Policy Engagement
Tough Stuff Recycling doesn’t limit its environmental mission to its own operations—it’s also an active advocate for progressive recycling policies at the state and regional levels. The company is a member of organizations like MassRecycle and regularly engages in public education and policy development, especially around Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) legislation. Through these partnerships, Tough Stuff contributes to the shaping of sustainable waste management practices. The company frequently collaborates with government agencies, industry associations, and fellow recyclers to promote smart, scalable solutions that protect the environment while supporting economic growth.
Strengthening Regional Business Ties
As a proud member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, Tough Stuff Recycling actively participates in efforts to boost local economies and foster regional development. “The Chamber’s mission mirrors our own,” says Horsman. “It’s about creating and sustaining meaningful relationships between businesses and the community.” Through the Chamber, the company accesses professional development programs, networking opportunities, and a powerful platform for legislative advocacy. These resources are vital as the company looks to expand its services and continue driving innovation in the recycling space.
A Bright Outlook for the Future
Despite being a relatively new player, Tough Stuff Recycling is already looking toward the future with ambitious goals. With the infrastructure, talent, and partnerships in place, the company is poised to scale operations throughout the Northeast, bringing its environmentally responsible solutions to a broader array of communities. The demand for mattress and bulky item recycling is only expected to grow in the coming years, especially as more states and municipalities adopt EPR mandates and implement stricter landfill regulations. Tough Stuff is well-positioned to meet this demand, thanks to its deep expertise, high-performance facility, and proactive engagement with policy and industry leaders.
Recognition and Growth
In just a few short years, Tough Stuff Recycling has transformed from a local operation into a multi-state service provider, operating successfully in both regulated and free-market environments. This rapid growth is a testament to the company’s adaptability and focus on quality. A standout achievement—recycling more than 25 million pounds of pocket coils—not only highlights the technical sophistication of Tough Stuff’s operations but also reflects the leadership of its visionary CEO, who pioneered the very system that made it possible.
Spreading the Word
To promote its services, Tough Stuff Recycling relies on strategic partnerships with associations and coalitions that span the recycling and hospitality industries. Organizations like MassRecycle, New Hampshire Recycles, and the Northeast Recycling Council help connect the company with municipalities and commercial entities that can benefit from their services. This network-based approach has proven to be highly effective, enabling Tough Stuff to grow its visibility while aligning with like-minded partners who share their commitment to sustainability. Tough Stuff Recycling is more than just a business—it’s a mission-driven organization reshaping how we think about waste, sustainability, and community engagement. With a foundation built on innovation, a commitment to environmental responsibility, and strong local roots, this Fitchburg-based company is proving that tackling the “tough stuff” is not only possible but also essential for a cleaner, greener future. As the world grapples with mounting waste and limited landfill space, companies like Tough Stuff Recycling show that practical solutions are already within reach—solutions that protect the planet, empower communities, and drive economic progress.
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Founded in 1974, the Massachusetts Youth Soccer Association (commonly known as Mass Youth Soccer or MYS) celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024—a milestone commemorating five decades of development, inclusion, and community soccer across the Commonwealth. Spokesperson Jaime Balboni reflects: “This anniversary wasn’t just about looking back—it’s an occasion to reaffirm our mission: to serve, educate, and provide safe soccer play for all.”
Uniting Youth Through Soccer
One of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber’s newest members, Mass Youth Soccer functions as the governing body for soccer in Massachusetts., overseeing programming, policies, and support for more than 100,000 young players and over 20,000 adult volunteers. The organization delivers a wide array of player development programs, coach and referee education, risk management initiatives, and organizational support for affiliated clubs and leagues. Their work structures the backbone of youth soccer throughout the state, ensuring quality and consistency across all levels. Their mission, as stated, is “to serve, educate, and provide safe soccer play for all,” underpinned by a vision to “lead, inspire & unite soccer communities,” and rooted in values like fun, growth, inclusion, integrity, respect, compassion, and belonging—all reaffirmed in a March 2023 update to their mission‑vision‑values platform
Programs That Matter
Mass Youth Soccer offers numerous programs that touch every corner of youth soccer:
TOPSoccer, created for athletes with intellectual, emotional, or physical disabilities, ensures that no player is excluded from the joy of sport.
The Olympic Development Program (ODP) aims to identify and nurture elite players, focusing on individual growth and holistic development through rigorous tryouts and seasonal camps
The Districts (formerly District Select Program), launched each summer, provides pressure‑free competition across seven districts, leading up to a community event at Progin Park. The 2025 season began July 6, with district games followed by a culminating event in early August
The Town Select League (TSL) works in partnership with town-based soccer organizations to give players a higher level of development and select-level competition. TSL practices weekly and plays Sunday matches, offering structured development with minimized travel and cost
Futsal programming through affiliated leagues such as the Coastal Youth Futsal League provides year-round, small-sided indoor soccer opportunities
Resources such as session planning guides for volunteer coaches—covering U6 to U12 levels—and user-friendly educational tools like Play‑Practice‑Play methodology support effective grassroots coaching across the state
Empowering Coaches, Referees & Organizations
Mass Youth Soccer emphasizes education and certification:
Coach education includes workshops, certification courses, survival guides, and technical resources that equip volunteers to be effective mentors.
Referee development and risk management are central, especially with the enforcement of U.S. Soccer’s Policy 531‑9 (misconduct toward officials) beginning March 1, 2025, which governs all Mass Youth Soccer‑sanctioned play . All adult volunteers must complete SafeSport, concussion awareness training, and pass CORI and national background checks
They provide a Member Toolkit—a comprehensive administration guide for club officers, helping organizations comply with governance best practices, waivers, financial guidelines, and safe operations
Governance is provided by a volunteer Board of Directors, elected at the Annual General Meeting, which helps steer strategy, policy, and organizational direction
Culture & Organizational Values
“Our workplace culture is collaborative, mission‑driven, and grounded in values of fun, growth, inclusion, and integrity,” says Balboni. The team is committed to creating a supportive environment where staff feel valued, respected, and empowered—a reflection of the culture Mass Youth Soccer encourages across its broader community. In hiring, Mass Youth Soccer seeks individuals who are passionate about youth development, collaborative in spirit, committed to diversity, and aligned with their core organizational values.
Community Impact & Influence
Mass Youth Soccer’s impact is felt statewide. Through TOPSoccer, thousands of youth with disabilities gain structured and supportive play opportunities. Their partnerships with local clubs, leagues, and partner organizations help deliver programming in both urban and underserved communities. The organization’s influence is rooted in the hundreds of volunteers, coaches, and referees—the backbone of local soccer—who bring passion and commitment every day. National and international soccer organizations shape the association’s standards in safety, inclusion, and player development. Most importantly, the families and communities who participate continually influence how programs evolve to remain relevant and accessible.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future
“Our future is bright,” Balboni affirms. Mass Youth Soccer is focused on:
Enhancing player development structuring across programs like Districts, TSL, ODP, and TOPSoccer.
Advancing coach and referee education, leveraging technology and streamlined access to certification courses.
Expanding access to the game—particularly in underserved and urban areas—via outreach efforts and inclusive programs.
Strengthening community partnerships, enhancing collaboration with clubs, leagues, schools, and local organizations that share the mission.
Their goal is to grow the game in a manner that stays true to their core values: fun, growth, inclusion, and integrity.
Why It Matters
In an age where youth involvement in sports is often challenged by cost, safety concerns, and access barriers, Mass Youth Soccer stands out as a state-level organization purpose-built to tackle these issues head-on. They provide programming that is affordable, inclusive, and grounded in player-centered development. By supporting coaches and referees, educating volunteers, ensuring compliance and safety, and championing inclusive initiatives like TOPSoccer, Mass Youth Soccer plays a critical leadership role in making soccer a positive, community-building experience across Massachusetts. As Balboni summed it, “Our 50-year milestone is not the end of our journey—it’s a launching pad. We remain committed to shaping soccer environments where every youth can play, grow, and belong.” This forward-looking perspective, rooted in a legacy of service since 1974, positions Mass Youth Soccer to continue strengthening communities, empowering volunteers, and connecting children with the joy and lifelong benefits of the beautiful game.
For more information
Contact: Jaime Balboni, Mass Youth Soccer Association, Lancaster, MA
Website: www.mayouthsoccer.org
Phone: (978) 466‑8812
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At Workers Credit Union, the focus is on one thing: building the financial wellness of its members. Founded in 1914 by John Suominen, a Finnish immigrant and successful printing company owner in Fitchburg, MA, Workers Credit Union began with a simple mission to support the economic welfare of fellow immigrants. Fast forward more than a century, and the credit union is thriving, boasting over $2.4 billion in assets and serving more than 125,000 personal and business members across North Central Massachusetts and beyond.
A Legacy of Service to the Community
What started as a vision to help immigrants is now a cornerstone of financial well-being for people in all walks of life. Workers Credit Union remains member-owned and focused on its core mission: to empower members to build better financial futures. With a broad range of services from checking and savings accounts to home and auto loans, small business and commercial loans, and insurance through Workers Insurance Agency the credit union provides tailored financial solutions to individuals and businesses alike.
What Sets Workers Credit Union Apart?
Unlike many financial institutions, Workers Credit Union isn’t just about business; it’s about community. The credit union has long been dedicated to supporting local organizations and initiatives. From Relay For Life to Habitat for Humanity, Workers is actively involved in making a positive impact in the region. Their commitment goes beyond just financial contributions they prioritize volunteerism and community outreach, ensuring that they’re a true partner in the growth and success of North Central Massachusetts.
A Work Culture Focused on Collaboration and Transparency
Workers Credit Union’s internal culture mirrors the community-oriented values it holds. The company promotes a work environment grounded in collaboration, transparency, and mutual support. Employees are encouraged to take part in initiatives that make a difference both inside and outside the workplace. When hiring, Workers looks for people who share this commitment to community and teamwork qualities that enable employees to provide the best service to their members.
Fun Fact: A Partnership with the WooSox
Not only is Workers Credit Union rooted in the community, but they also know how to have fun! The credit union is a proud partner of the Worcester Red Sox (WooSox) and has created an exciting Augmented Reality scavenger hunt at Polar Park called Woofster’s Workers Reality. Fans can join in the fun, complete challenges, take home a limited-edition prize poster, and enter for a chance to win season tickets for the WooSox. It’s just one example of how Workers blends community involvement with innovative, engaging experiences.
Looking Ahead: Big Plans for the Future
With over 110 years of service in North Central Massachusetts, Workers Credit Union is excited about the future. With a commitment to innovation and exceptional service, they’re poised to continue being a trusted partner for members across the region for another hundred years!
Community Impact
Whether through a one-on-one conversation with a member of their dedicated staff or a digital interaction via online or mobile banking, Workers Credit Union provides exceptional service in any channel.
In a world full of financial institutions, Workers Credit Union stands out not only for its competitive offerings but for its deep-rooted commitment to the community, its collaborative and transparent workplace culture, and its innovative approach to engaging with members and supporters. Whether you’re a new member or a long-time customer, it’s clear that Workers Credit Union is not just a financial institution it’s a partner in building a better future.
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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.
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For over a century, E.L. Harvey & Sons has been a cornerstone of waste management in Central New England. Headquartered in Westborough, Massachusetts, this full-service waste management company has evolved from humble beginnings into a trusted partner for residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal clients. Known for its comprehensive service offerings and community-first mindset, E.L. Harveyy continues to lead the way in sustainable and innovative waste solutions.
Serving a broad range of industries, E.L. Harvey provides everything from residential curbside pickup and recycling to large-scale commercial waste handling. Their services also include document shredding, and specialized recycling for industrial clients. This versatility ensures that E.L. Harvey can meet the needs of anyone who generates waste—from local homeowners to major construction sites and municipal governments.
What truly sets E.L. Harvey apart from the competition is a combination of deep-rooted local expertise, environmental stewardship, and an unwavering focus on customer satisfaction. As a locally operated company with generations of experience in Central New England, E.L. Harvey understands the unique challenges of waste management in the region. This insight, paired with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community engagement, creates a business that not only provides services but also builds lasting relationships.
The company’s workplace culture further reflects its values. Through a decentralized management model, E.L. Harvey empowers its teams to act with entrepreneurial ownership. Safety remains a top priority, alongside customer service and innovation. The company seeks individuals who are driven, self-motivated, and dedicated to upholding high standards of care—both for clients and the environment.
E.L. Harvey is deeply woven into the fabric of the North Central Massachusetts community. From sponsoring events like the Young Professionals Fashion Show Fundraiser to supporting local initiatives and providing essential waste services at community events, the company sees its role as much more than just a service provider. It’s a community partner. The team takes pride in contributing to a cleaner, stronger region through hands-on involvement and donations.
Looking ahead, E.L. Harvey is poised to remain a leader in sustainable waste management. The company is actively exploring cutting-edge technologies such as AI-driven sorting, robotics, and waste-to-energy solutions that support a circular economy. As electronic waste and sustainability demands rise, E.L. Harvey is positioning itself to meet the challenges of tomorrow while reducing its environmental impact today.
A fun fact that many might not know is that E.L. Harvey started as a cattle business back in 1911. That entrepreneurial spirit, paired with over 100 years of adaptability, is what continues to drive the company forward.
Recognized by the Worcester Business Journal as the Best Waste Removal Company in their Best of Business Awards, E.L. Harvey’s success is a testament to its hard-working team, forward-thinking leadership, and loyal customer base.
For those in need of trusted, responsible waste management, E.L. Harvey offers more than a service—they offer a partnership grounded in sustainability, community, and integrity.
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Mountainside Bakery and Café honored with the prestigious Preservation Massachusetts Award for its dedication to historic preservation and community enrichment
In the heart of North Central Massachusetts, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Wachusett Mountain State Park, stands Mountainside Bakery & Café, a one-of-a-kind venue that has become a cherished destination for locals and visitors alike. Since its opening in January 2015, this charming, historic manor home has evolved into a hub for unique events, providing a perfect blend of exceptional food, beautiful surroundings, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether hosting a corporate retreat, a wedding, or an intimate gathering, Mountainside offers an experience that is unparalleled in the region.
According to owner/operator Katherine Huck, Mountainside Bakery & Café was born from a passion for hospitality and a desire to offer something truly special to the North Central Massachusetts community. The venue offers full catering and bar services for private events, catering, and corporate meetings, with a focus on providing a personalized experience for each guest. Located in a beautifully restored historic manor home, the space exudes charm and character, offering an elegant yet relaxed setting for a variety of gatherings.
As a family-oriented business, the team at Mountainside is committed to delivering high-quality service and food that exceeds expectations. From from-scratch baked goods to carefully crafted cocktails and expertly brewed coffee, every detail is thoughtfully curated. The emphasis on quality ingredients and impeccable preparation ensures that guests leave with not only fond memories but a genuine appreciation for the care that goes into each dish and drink.
What makes Mountainside stand out is the venue’s ability to tailor each event to the unique needs of the host and their guests. Whether it’s a corporate meeting that requires a professional, yet inviting environment, or a wedding celebration that demands beauty and elegance, Mountainside works closely with clients to design custom events that reflect their vision. The versatility of the venue, coupled with a team that is dedicated to providing a seamless and memorable experience, makes it an ideal location for any occasion.
While the food, drinks, and services are undoubtedly exceptional, the location of Mountainside is what truly sets it apart. Surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Wachusett Mountain State Park, the venue offers an atmosphere of peace and tranquility, making it the perfect backdrop for events of all kinds. According to Ms. Huck, guests can take in the stunning views of the mountain, enjoy the serenity of the surrounding woods, and experience the restorative power of nature – all while savoring delicious food and drinks in an unforgettable setting.
In addition to its natural beauty, Mountainside’s historic location adds a unique layer of character to the venue. The restored manor home is rich with history, allowing guests to connect with the past while enjoying the comforts and conveniences of the present. The blend of history, nature, and hospitality creates an ambiance that is truly magical, allowing people to step away from the hustle and bustle of daily life and connect with one another in a meaningful way.
One of the cornerstones of Mountainside’s success is its deep commitment to supporting the local community. Katherine notes, “the word “community” is not just a part of the venue’s logo – it is at the very heart of the business. Mountainside plays an active role in supporting local organizations and businesses through donations, meeting space, and providing food for various community events. Whether it’s hosting a local charity event or offering space for a business meeting, Mountainside remains dedicated to strengthening the ties that bind the people of North Central Massachusetts.”
In a region known for its sense of camaraderie and a strong community spirit, Mountainside serves as a gathering place for locals to come together, share ideas, and celebrate milestones. This sense of connection is at the core of the venue’s philosophy, and it’s something that resonates with both employees and guests. Mountainside truly embodies the spirit of collaboration and togetherness, which is why it’s such a treasured part of the community.
The culture at Mountainside is another key element of its success. The team at Mountainside is made up of energetic, friendly, and supportive individuals who deeply care about what they offer to their guests. The company’s focus on creating a family-like atmosphere ensures that every employee is valued, respected, and encouraged to grow professionally. The venue looks for individuals who have integrity and a desire to learn, recognizing that a strong, dedicated team is essential to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable experiences for guests.
This positive workplace culture also extends to the guests. Employees at Mountainside go out of their way to ensure that each visitor feels welcome and cared for, making it easy to see why so many people return time and time again. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, you can always count on friendly service, a warm atmosphere, and food that exceeds expectations.
As Mountainside looks to the future, the team is excited about the continued growth and success of the business. There’s a renewed desire among people to connect in person, and Mountainside’s unique venue provides the perfect setting for such gatherings. The team is inspired by the work they do and the opportunity to offer people a place where they can celebrate life’s special moments in a timeless, magical setting.
As more people seek out experiences that are meaningful and personal, Mountainside is poised to meet this demand with its exceptional service, stunning location, and commitment to community. Whether hosting a small, intimate event or a large celebration, Mountainside continues to offer a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave guests with memories that last a lifetime.
Mountainside uses primarily social media platforms to promote. “On Youtube we have a full series of our renovation videos, a healthy following on Facebook, a growing following in Instagram and a regular contingent who receive our newsletter,” said Huck. “We stopped using print adverstising years ago, but know new online forms of advertising are essential for us.”
Mountainside Bakery & Café is more than just a place to dine or host an event – it’s a destination where food, history, nature, and community come together to create an unforgettable experience. With a focus on exceptional service, quality ingredients, and a commitment to supporting the local community, Mountainside has become a beloved part of North Central Massachusetts. As the business continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain: Mountainside will always be a place where people can gather, connect, and create memories that will last for years to come.
For more information, email
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Celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2024, Groton-based Fuse Energy has established itself as a comprehensive commercial energy advisory firm serving North Central Massachusetts. Co-Managing Partners Steve Janes and Tom DeFeudis lead the company with decades of combined experience, specializing in helping small businesses, commercial and industrial clients, and municipalities optimize their energy spending while maintaining environmental awareness.
DeFeudis brings over 15 years of experience leading business development teams for direct energy suppliers, serving both public and private sector customers. Janes complements this expertise with his background in international business advisory and development, including work on large-scale manufacturing and municipal projects. Together, they bring a team approach to commercial energy consulting, leveraging their extensive experience in domestic and international infrastructure to guide clients toward optimal energy choices.
“Fuse is a local firm with local roots,” explains Janes. “Our clients become valued partners as our relationship grows.” This partnership approach has yielded impressive results, with success stories ranging from helping a local nonprofit reduce their annual energy spend by 30% to saving a major Boston hospital over $300,000 annually on electricity costs.
What sets Fuse Energy apart is their holistic approach to energy management. Their comprehensive services include Electricity & Natural Gas Procurement, Demand Response, Community Solar programs, and EV Charging Stations. Beyond these core offerings, they help clients secure rebates, utility incentives, and recover overcharged taxes. This comprehensive service is particularly valuable to the manufacturing sector in North Central Massachusetts, where the company has found a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
Community involvement is central to Fuse Energy’s identity. The firm actively supports multiple nonprofits and community service organizations in the region. Both Managing Partners are active Freemasons and Rotarians, personally leading several fundraising events throughout the year. The company has also formed a meaningful partnership with the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, helping the organization optimize its own energy expenditure. “As Chamber President, I’ve seen firsthand how Fuse Energy’s expertise benefits our members,” says Roy Nascimento. “They helped us significantly reduce our own energy costs through their thorough analysis and understanding of the market. Their dedication to the North Central Massachusetts business community makes them a valued member and partner.”
Looking ahead, Fuse Energy is positioning itself at the intersection of several transformative trends. “The energy industry is both an important and exciting place to be in these times,” notes Janes. “Global electrification is at a rapid pace. Geopolitical issues are going to have an impact on natural gas in the near future while Artificial Intelligence will become one of the world’s largest consumers of energy.” The partners are particularly passionate about advancing renewable-energy development and reducing their clients’ carbon footprints. In this evolving landscape, Fuse Energy remains committed to helping clients navigate these uncharted waters with both financial and environmental considerations in mind.
For more information about Fuse Energy’s services, contact Steve Janes at or call 978.486.3873.
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Explaining “Bitcoin” and “Crypto Currency” can be very confusing. The new Leominster office of Bitcoin Ben Crypto Club Massachusetts is trying to help educate folks in the region what these topics are all about.
“We are educating people in the right direction of this revolutionary technology,” said business representative Edward Albert. After opening its first location in 2023, the Leominster office was the 3rd location when it opened in June of 2024.
“We want folks to join, share, learn and earn!” said Albert. He noted that the Crypto Club really doesn’t have any competition and “is the first of its kind in the world!” Albert added the most special part about doing business in North Central Massachusetts is “changing lives and providing opportunities for the community.” The office has already gotten involved in the community as a premier sponsor of this year’s Johnny Appleseed Festival. Albert considers the club an “economical hospital” and is looking for the chamber to expand its reach and assist more people. “We’re also a social club with ever changing events from music, open mic to poker..etc.,” said Albert.
The Club has its eye on growing and opening future clubs in most every state. According to it’s website, the Club was founded by “Bitcoin” Ben Semchee – a former truck driver and a cryptocurrency enthusiast, influencer, and entrepreneur who is bringing Bitcoin, Litecoin, and other cryptocurrencies into the mainstream.
After creating daily Facebook videos in his truck, he attracted the attention of the “average Jane and Joe” as well as other cryptocurrency organizations and influencers with his ability to explain complex cryptocurrency-related subjects while injecting humor and patriotism. Ben currently produces several live videos a day and can be seen on X, Youtube, Facebook, Rumble, NetFlix, Amazon Prime, Netflix, Roku, The X22 Report, WENG Radio, and more.
The Club located at the old Gariepy Furniture Building at 91 Central St. in Leominster offers day passes which provides access to video training, 15-minute one-on-one sessions with staff for general questions, use of the club library, a Bitcoin ATM and a Coffee Bar. According to the website, the Club is at its core “a Bitcoin and cryptocurrency education and freedom club! In person and online training is available to all members, learn secure ways to buy, sell, and store Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies!”
People can meet and network with other Bitcoin and cryptocurrency enthusiasts who love freedom and love making new friends and helping others! Check the social calendar often for meetups and more! For details, visit https://bitcoinbencryptoclubmass.com/.
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“Helping organizations find a clear path forward” is the first headline readers see on Antonioni Consulting’swebsite. Maria Antonioni founded her consulting business in Leominster in June 2023 after more than 20 years of experience in executive leadership.
Her approach is highly individualized and holistic. “My goal is to understand how your unique non-profit or small business functions as a whole and how it can be strengthened at every level to build a healthier, more integrated organization,” she said. “As an executive development consultant, we help clients build healthy, fulfilling careers that capitalize on their personal strengths.”
Antonioni Consulting, Inc helps nonprofits, businesses, and individuals map out a clear path to success through improved organizational health and professional development. Areas of focus include:
Improving workplace culture and team unity
Communicating clearly and effectively
Boosting morale and productivity
Strengthening executive leadership
Unifying your organization’s mission and purpose
Her goal is to understand how unique non-profit organizations or small businesses function as a whole and how they can be strengthened at every level to build a healthier, more integrated organization. With her background in nonprofit leadership, education and healthcare, Maria uses a “highly individualized and holistic approach.” “We help clients build healthy, fulfilling careers that capitalize on their personal strengths,” she added.
In defining what separates her business from her competition, Maria notes “leading with empathy and understanding builds trust among employees so that collective growth becomes a team effort.” She adds “our approach prioritizes listening to and empowering members at every level of an organization, making work individually rewarding and transforming your mission into a shared sense of purpose.”
According to her website, Antonioni Consulting “enables organizations, teams and individuals to transform and thrive through critical insights.” “We understand that no person or organization is an island that they can only be fully understood within the largest context of the relationships, experience, strengths, goals and myriad other factors that shape their professional lives,” the website continues. “This real world approach promotes the growth and well being of your organizations, group or career as an integrated whole.”“We are committed to providing the honest assessment, practical advice and actionable tools you need to define and achieve success,” the website concludes.
Maria’s contact information and her phone number is 781.664.7362.
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