Chamber News Archives » Page 11 of 104 » North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Updates – Your Chamber In Action!

Posted on December 11th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

As your dynamic partner in North Central Massachusetts, we continue to drive initiatives that strengthen our business community and foster regional growth. Our impact spans from direct business support to innovative community development, and we are pleased to share these updates with you that are not covered elsewhere in the newsletter.

SMALL BUSINESS LENDING: Our commitment to small business remains strong. For FY2024 which ended September 30, 2024, the Chamber’s economic development arm, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), approved and closed 27 loans to small businesses for a total of $1,101,500. The loans ranged from $1,000 to $250,000 and helped leverage another $2,424,000 in capital from our banking partners and $158,329 in borrower capital. These loans helped create 19.5 new jobs and retained another 29.5 jobs. We currently have a total of 98 loans in our loan portfolio with a total principal balance of $3,149,392.

BUSINESS ASSISTANCE: Beyond lending, our team also provided a total of 2,175 hours of hands on technical assistance in FY2024 to small businesses in the region. We also connected them with resources available through our partners like NewVue Communities, the Small Business Development Center at Clark University (SBDC), SCORE and the Center for Women and Enterprise (CWE). In addition, we continue to connect them as needed with professionals who can provide technical assistance beyond the scope of what we can do directly, including services for marketing, public relations, website/media design, bookkeeping and legal.

INITIATE PROSPERITY: FREE ONLINE RESOURCES: Members have access to Initiate Prosperity, our comprehensive online platform featuring 300+ business resources in English and Spanish. Since launching in October 2023, users have logged 70+ hours accessing interactive tools, templates, videos, and customized technical assistance guides.

Interested in signing up for Initiate? Access is complimentary for members, but pre-registration is required. Contact Sandie Cataldo, Senior Economic Development Manager at or 978.353.7600 ext. 232.

WorkNorthCentral.com: Our online jobs board, WorkNorthCentral.com, continues to be a vital tool for Chamber members. From January 1 to October 31, 2024, we’ve seen impressive engagement with over 1,500 job opportunities posted and more than 22,000 page views. To extend our reach, we also share these listings on our dedicated Work North Central Facebook page.

As a reminder, postings are complimentary for members. You can easily post your employment opportunities directly or email your listings to Sabbra Reyes at .

Take advantage of this powerful platform to connect with top talent in our region. Post your job openings today and tap into our growing network of job seekers!

Lauren Jones, Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, addresses a special joint meeting convened by the Chamber of the Manufacturing Council and the Talent Compact

WORKFORCE & TALENT: The Chamber convened a special joint meeting in September between our Manufacturing Council and North Central Massachusetts Talent Compact. Lauren Jones, Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development, shared key insights on the Healey administration’s workforce initiatives and led a discussion on addressing our region’s pressing labor challenges. This strategic dialogue advanced our ongoing efforts to strengthen North Central Massachusetts’ workforce development and enhance regional economic growth.

SOLAR INITIATIVE: Our Pleasant Street solar field, launched in August 2014, continues to deliver significant benefits to participating manufacturers. As of October, 2024 the initiative has produced14,622,546 kWh of Net Metering Credits to the manufacturers participating in the program and a collective savings of $3,106,809 to participants.

This innovative program not only promotes sustainable energy practices but also contributes substantially to cost reduction for local businesses. As we celebrate a decade of operation, these figures underscore the long-term economic and environmental impact of our solar initiative.

SHOP LOCAL GIFT CARD PROGRAM: We currently have 41 member merchants that are participating in the Gift Local eGift Card program. Since January 1, 2024 through the end of October we have sold 59 gift cards valued at $2,600. During the same timeframe, 55 cards valued at $1,787.41 were redeemed at participating small businesses.

As we approach the holiday season—our peak sales period—we invite more businesses to join this free program. Every card redeemed supports our local economy.

Want to participate? Contact Patrick O’Hara: or 978.353.7600 ext. 239.

AMBASSADOR PROGRAM GROWING: Our Chamber Ambassadors—dedicated volunteers who champion member engagement and represent us at key events—continue to expand with two new additions in the last few months. We invite passionate members to join this influential group.

Interested in becoming an Ambassador? Contact Patrick O’Hara: or 978.353.7600 ext. 239.

GATEWAY SIGN INITIATIVE EXPANDS: Our commitment to strengthening regional identity continues with the recent addition of attractive welcome signs in Groton and Lancaster. These new installations complement our existing network of gateway signs in communities across North Central Massachusetts, including Fitchburg, Gardner, Hubbardston, Leominster, Lunenburg, Pepperell, Sterling, and Westminster. Beyond beautification, these signs serve as powerful symbols of community pride, enhance visitor navigation, and contribute to economic development by creating a more cohesive regional brand. We hope to sponsor additional signs for other member communities in North Central Massachusetts as funding becomes available.

Chamber staff showcase the new office furniture at our offices. Special thanks to AIS, Inc. for their donation of the new furniture.

DIGITAL REACH EXPANDS: Our strategic focus on fresh content and enhanced SEO practices continues to drive growth across our digital platforms, creating strong visibility for our members and communities. The Chamber’s main website, northcentralmass.com, demonstrated strong performance for fiscal year 2024 (ending June 30, 2024), attracting over 53,500 visitors and generating 137,700 pageviews—a 19.2% increase from the previous fiscal year.

Even more impressive has been the dramatic growth of our tourism platform, VisitNorthCentral.com. The site recorded more than 112,000 visitors and 207,000 pageviews throughout FY2024, representing a remarkable 50% increase in traffic. This momentum has continued into FY2025, with early metrics showing an extraordinary 89% surge in visitors and a 60% increase in pageviews compared to the same period last year.

These significant gains in digital engagement reflect growing interest in our region and demonstrate the effectiveness of our digital marketing strategies in showcasing North Central Massachusetts.

PODCAST HITS NEW MILESTONES: Our Inside North Central Massachusetts podcast has reached new milestones with 147 episodes and 5,800+ downloads—a 25% increase from last year. The series, sponsored by Franklin Professional Associates, continues to spotlight our region’s business leaders and success stories. Want to share your story? Contact Travis Condon at or 978.353.7600 ext. 224 to book your guest spot.

CHAMBER OFFICE GETS UPGRADE: Thanks to AIS, Inc.’s generous $50,000 furniture donation, we’ve modernized our office space with new staff furniture and cubicles. In keeping with our community-focused mission, we donated our previous furnishings to local non-profits, extending the impact of this upgrade throughout North Central Massachusetts.

Government Affairs Update

Posted on December 11th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

The Chamber has maintained an active presence in both federal and state-level advocacy throughout the latter months of 2024, hosting several key events and engaging on critical policy issues affecting our business community and the economic growth of the region.

Federal Engagement

The Chamber has strengthened its federal advocacy efforts this fall. Our annual Congressional Luncheon brought together Congressman Jim McGovern and Congresswoman Lori Trahan for a discussion on federal issues. Made possible through premier sponsor Fitchburg State University and supporting sponsor Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc., the event provided members direct access to their federal representatives.

Further enhancing our federal presence, Chamber President Roy Nascimento represented our region at the prestigious Committee of 100 (CCC100) meeting in October. This select group, convened by the US Chamber of Commerce, comprises the nation’s 100 leading chamber executives. Nascimento’s participation enabled direct engagement with national business leaders, members of Congress, and chamber executives from across the country. His appointment to the CCC100 strengthens our ability to advocate for regional priorities while gaining early insights into federal policies affecting our business community.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are monitoring several critical federal issues that could significantly impact our local economy. These include the upcoming expiration of various provisions within the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, particularly changes to the R&D tax credit and the expiration of the pass-through deduction for small businesses. Additionally, potential new tariff policies under the new Trump administration warrant careful monitoring for their potential effects on our local economy.

Elections and Engagement

Maintaining our non-partisan stance, the Chamber served as an objective resource for both incumbent officials and candidates throughout the election cycle. While we do not endorse candidates, we actively facilitate dialogue between our elected representatives and candidates with the business community to ensure our region’s economic priorities are clearly communicated and understood.

Our Annual Legislative and Candidates Reception exemplified this approach. Thanks to the generous support of premier sponsor Mount Wachusett Community College and supporting sponsor Open Sky Community Services, the event provided a valuable forum for meaningful interaction between our legislative delegation, local officials, candidates, and business leaders.

Throughout the quarter, we also fostered engagement through individual meetings with officials and candidates, as well as focused discussions addressing specific concerns that our members had approached us about. The November election resulted in no changes to the North Central Massachusetts Legislative delegation, with incumbents maintaining their seats.

Ballot Question Advocacy

The Chamber actively engaged in advocacy regarding two significant ballot questions. With Question 2’s passage leaving Massachusetts without statewide graduation standards, we will advocate for thoughtful development of new standards that maintain educational excellence while ensuring student preparedness. We appreciate voters’ rejection of Question 5, recognizing its potential impact on our region’s hospitality sector. Special thanks to our legislative delegation members who opposed Question 5 and our member restaurants for their grassroots advocacy.

2025 Policy Agenda

The Chamber’s Board of Directors approved our Public Policy Agenda for 2025. Developed through stakeholder input and vetted by our Government Affairs Committee, this agenda will guide our advocacy efforts throughout the coming year.

The agenda focuses on six key priorities: economic competitiveness, small business, manufacturing, education, transportation, and real estate. While maintaining our longstanding positions on core issues, the 2025 agenda includes refined policy positions around plastics manufacturing, housing accessibility, and healthcare costs. These updates reflect the evolving needs of our business community while maintaining focus on long-term economic growth.

The complete agenda is available on our website.

State and Local Legislative Update

We recently provided testimony supporting the northern tier rail extension and submitted recommendations for the federally mandated Community Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). On Beacon Hill, we are monitoring the economic development bill and climate legislation during the closing days of informal session, which runs through December.

As Massachusetts operates on a two-year legislative cycle, any bills not passed by session’s end must be refiled in January when the new session begins. The Chamber will closely monitor new legislation affecting our business community as the process restarts in 2025.

For information about the Chamber’s public policy work, contact Public Affairs Manager Travis Condon at 978.353.7600, ext. 224, or .

Visit North Central Massachusetts Tourism Update – Winter 2024

Posted on December 11th/in Chamber News, Tourism /by northcentralmass

Record-Breaking Tourism Growth

North Central Massachusetts continues to grow as a premier New England destination, with visitor spending reaching an impressive $496.9 million in CY2023—a 1.1% increase from 2022 and a remarkable 19.7% jump from 2019. The results come from a new economic impact study recently unveiled by the state. Our thriving tourism sector now supports 4,300 local jobs and generates $117.3 million in direct earnings, while contributing $8.2 million in local tax revenue and $33 million in state taxes. Our tourism impact extends deeper into the local economy through indirect spending, creating a powerful multiplier effect. When local hospitality, restaurants and other businesses in the local visitor economy thrive then they in turn invest in various local services and suppliers further contributing to our region’s economic growth.

Expanding Our Reach & Regional Partnerships & Media Engagement

We have strengthened our “Super Region” collaboration with two neighboring regional tourism councils (Discover Central MA and MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau), launching an innovative off-season marketing campaign. Through partnerships with CM Communications, a specialized Boston-based PR agency, we have hosted regional travel writer press trips and we also participated again in the Dream Destinations Travel Show this past fall, positioning our region as a must-visit destination.

Digital Presence & Engagement

Our social media impact continues to grow. From July 1, 2024 through the first week of November, our Visit North Central Massachusetts Facebook page had a total reach of 470,665, a 24.2% increase over the same timeframe the previous year. Our Facebook channel also attracted 6,000 new followers. In addition, the page also had 9,145 content interactions and 8,767 link clicks during the same timeframe. On Instagram, the page achieved a reach of 19,226 and we gained 167 new followers. We also had 2,323 content interactions and 259 link clicks during the same timeframe. From July 1, 2024 to the end of October, VisitNorthCentral.com saw continued growth with 58,500+ visitors, an 89% increase over the same timeframe the previous year, and 93,700+ pageviews, a 60% increase.

Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center Updates

Thanks to funding from several local cultural councils, we were able to successfully host our “Saturday Showcase” initiative again during weekends this fall season at the Johnny Appleseed Visitor Center. These popular events highlighted local culture and experiences in the region through an engaging mix of activities. Visitors enjoyed musical performances, meet-and-greets with local authors, face painting, arts and crafts demonstrations, and even visits from alpacas from local farms, among many other memorable experiences.

On the infrastructure front, we’ve completed important improvements in partnership with MassDOT to ensure reliable year-round service at the center. Recent upgrades include a new furnace and building generator installation. Additionally, we are excited to announce that several fast-charging EV car stations will soon be installed at the center as part of a national infrastructure initiative to expand charging stations along major highways. This addition will help us better serve the growing number of electric vehicle travelers along Route 2.

Guide to North Central

The Fall/Winter edition of the Guide to North Central Massachusetts was published in September and is continuing to see strong demand. This publication is a glossy, full color magazine which we publish to showcase our region through compelling stories and strong visuals. In collaboration with Sitka Creations, we are currently working on the 2025 Spring/Summer edition. Members interested in advertising should contact the Chamber to reserve an ad.

Email Newsletter

Our new quarterly visitor opt-in electronic newsletter now reaches over 3,200 subscribers, maintaining an impressive 44% open rate and 8% click-through rate—above industry standards.

Branding & Advertising

We are launching two exciting tourism campaigns for North Central Massachusetts, supported by grants from the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism and the Massachusetts 250th Anniversary celebration. Running from January through June 2025, these strategic initiatives will showcase our region’s unique attractions and rich heritage to visitors from both nearby states and across the region.

Our Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism campaign leverages an integrated approach combining targeted print and digital media. The campaign’s messaging continues to emphasize our region’s convenient location and authentic New England charm with compelling taglines such as “Everything You Love About New England… A Lot Closer to Home” and “Drive To, Not Through, North Central MA.” These messages position our region as a destination worth exploring rather than simply passing through.

In parallel, our Massachusetts 250th Anniversary campaign celebrates our region’s revolutionary spirit and ongoing transformation. Through carefully crafted messaging like “North Central Massachusetts is Revolutionary” and “North Central Massachusetts: A Region in Revolution,” we’ll highlight our area’s significant role in both historical and modern revolutions. From our pivotal contributions to the Agricultural and Industrial Revolutions to today’s vibrant economic and cultural renaissance, the campaign tells the story of a region that continues to evolve while honoring its historic roots in the agricultural and industrial revolution.

Photography & Visual Content

We coordinated a series of professional photo shoots to capture the authentic character and vibrant offerings of North Central Massachusetts. Our shoots showcased four of the region’s most iconic attractions and fourteen distinctive local restaurants, creating a rich library of compelling visuals. These new images beautifully portray the unique experiences awaiting visitors to our region, from historic landmarks to contemporary dining destinations. The fresh photography will enhance our marketing efforts across our website, social media channels, email campaigns, and printed materials, helping us tell our region’s story in a more engaging and visually appealing way.

We’re always eager to expand our visual storytelling capabilities. If your business or attraction has high-quality photos that capture the spirit of North Central Massachusetts, we’d love to feature them in our marketing initiatives. Whether it’s seasonal events, behind-the-scenes moments, or stunning views of your location, sharing your images helps us showcase the full breadth of experiences our region offers. Please contact the Chamber to learn more.

New Sports Tourism Opportunity

We have partnered with Playeasy, a comprehensive digital platform connecting sports event organizers with local venues and businesses. This “one-stop shop” streamlines event planning—from venue selection to hotel bookings—while showcasing our region’s facilities and attractions to organizers nationwide. The platform generates qualified leads for our member venues and businesses, creating new opportunities for our members.

We invite you to join us in promoting our region’s unique attractions and experiences. Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities to get involved!

Antonioni Consulting Helps Businesses Find a Clear Path Forward!

Posted on November 14th/in Chamber News, Member Spotlight /by northcentralmass

“Helping organizations find a clear path forward” is the first headline readers see on Antonioni Consulting’s website. 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.

North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation Funds New Artisanal Gift Shop

Posted on November 13th/in Chamber News, NCMDC /by northcentralmass

$40,000 in financing approved for Handcrafted Artisanal Marketplace, bringing unique local shopping experience to Airport Road in Fitchburg

The North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), the economic development arm of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, recently approved $40,000 in start-up financing for Handcrafted Artisanal Marketplace, a new specialty gift shop at 68 Airport Road in Fitchburg. The funding supports the latest addition to the region’s growing creative economy.

Known as the H.A.M. Gift Shop, the store features handcrafted products from local artisans, hosts monthly workshops, and provides special events that showcase regional talent. The business offers both direct sales and consignment opportunities for area craftspeople.

“My hope is for the gift shop to provide our region with a central hub for artisans while supporting personal and community causes,” said founder Katelyn Murphy. “Since we opened, we have received such a warm welcome from the community and our guests really enjoy meeting our mascot, Ham, too!”

The shop’s unique name stems from Murphy’s Quaker Parrot, Ham, her companion since 2020. “Ham has helped me through college, milestones, and hardships,” she added. “I named The H.A.M. Gift Shop after him to combine two of my passions, creativity and birds.”

Murphy developed her business plan in collaboration with NewVue Communities before securing financing through the NCMDC. To learn more about the gift shop, please visit https://thehamgiftshop.com/.

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.

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and Applewild School Announce Exclusive Educational Partnership

Posted on November 7th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and Amy Jolly, Head of School at Applewild School.

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and Applewild School announced a groundbreaking new affinity partnership aimed at supporting Chamber members and their families by offering exclusive benefits, including tuition discounts and preferential access to Applewild’s renowned educational programs.

The partnership addresses one of the region’s most pressing challenges: access to high-quality childcare and education. By offering substantial savings and priority enrollment, this program supports local employers’ efforts to reduce barriers to employment while providing valuable benefits to Chamber members.

Key features of the affinity program include:

Application fee waiver ($70 value) for both K-9 and Preschool programs
$1,500 tuition discount for K-9 students
Preferential enrollment access for preschool-age children (18 months – 5 years)

“We are excited to launch this new benefit for our members and their families. This isn’t just about discounted tuition; it’s about breaking down barriers to employment and providing our members with access to quality childcare and education,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This innovative partnership embodies our commitment to creative solutions that address our community’s most pressing challenges. By connecting our members with world-class education, we’re not only enhancing the value of Chamber membership but also catalyzing economic growth and family prosperity in our region.”

Amy Jolly, Head of School at Applewild School, shared her perspective on the partnership: “We are thrilled to join forces with the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce in this innovative program. As a longstanding Chamber member and community-focused institution, we see this as an opportunity to extend our educational expertise to a broader range of local families. This partnership reinforces our commitment to the region and allows us to contribute more directly to its economic vitality by supporting working families with high-quality educational options.”

Applewild School, known for its comprehensive programs serving children from 18 months through 9th grade, brings a strong reputation and full accreditation to this partnership. With its campus in Fitchburg and a satellite preschool location in Devens, the school is well-positioned to serve families throughout North Central Massachusetts.

Chamber members and their employees can access these exclusive benefits by providing proof of membership during the application process to Applewild School. The school’s admissions team will work directly with the Chamber to verify membership and apply the appropriate discounts.

For more information about this affinity program and how to take advantage of its benefits, Chamber members are encouraged to visit applewild.org/ncmcc or northcentralmass.com/affinity-programs.

Community Leadership Institute Class of 2025 Announced

Posted on November 4th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the participants selected for the 2025 Community Leadership Institute (CLI). This prestigious nine-month program equips future leaders with essential skills and deep regional knowledge, focusing on key sectors and topics including media and crisis communications; non-profit governance and volunteerism; healthcare; arts and culture; government and the legislative process; manufacturing; economic development; and the legal system.

Established in 1989, CLI has graduated more than 300 community leaders over its 36-year history, with over 100 alumni in the past five years alone. The program identifies and develops emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds who will shape our region’s future.

The Community Leadership Institute delivers its comprehensive curriculum through monthly sessions from October through June. Each participant, sponsored by their respective business organization, gains extensive exposure to regional challenges and opportunities. The Chamber accepts applications annually during July and August, selecting participants who demonstrate strong leadership potential and commitment to community service.

“CLI continues to be our flagship leadership development program, preparing the next generation of regional leaders,” says Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s class represents the diverse talent and potential within North Central Massachusetts.”

“The caliber of this year’s class is exceptional,” notes Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Community Leadership Institute Program. “These emerging leaders bring fresh perspectives and energy that will undoubtedly strengthen our region’s future economic and social fabric.”

CLI Class of 2025 Participants:

Elizabeth Aguilera, Rollstone Bank & Trust
Hannah Bovill, Bemis Associates
Stefanae Bowen, Mount Wachusett Community College
Marian Colón, Enterprise Bank & Trust
Catherine Comerford, Workers’ Credit Union
Travis Condon, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Emily Dewey, IC Federal Credit Union
Danielle Duval, Leominster Credit Union
Rosa Fernandez, Health Equity Partnership of North Central MA
Luisa Fernandez, Fitchburg Public Schools
Calla Flannery, Workers’ Credit Union
Jacqui Girouard, AIS, Inc.
Nate Glenny, Fitchburg Access Television
Deborah Hinkle, Fitchburg Public Library
Lauren Howe, empHowered PR
Michael Kennedy, Fitchburg State University
Brittany Knowles, Bin There Dump That
Meghan Macieko, Community Foundation of North Central MA
Towma Rastad, Fidelity Bank
Sabbra Reyes, Visit North Central Massachusetts
Brandon Robbins, Ginny’s Helping Hand
Eladia Romero, Office of Representative James McGovern
Jake Simopoulos, MA State Senate Office of Senator John J. Cronin
Kristen Smith, NXT Level Studios
Sarah Tavitian, NewVue Communities
Lynese Wiafe, Fitchburg State University

For more information on the Community Leadership Institute, please visit www.northcentralmass.com/overview/cli or contact Maureen Babcock at or 978.353.7600 ext. 222.

Question 5: A Well-Intentioned Measure with Unintended Consequences

Posted on October 31st/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

Question 5: A Well-Intentioned Measure with Unintended Consequences

As the President and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, I feel compelled to address the potential impacts of Massachusetts Ballot Question 5 on our local economy and communities. While the intention behind this measure—to ensure fair wages for all workers—is laudable, the reality is that its passage could have severe unintended consequences for our region’s restaurants and hospitality businesses, their employees, and the broader economic ecosystem they support.

Question 5 proposes to gradually increase the minimum wage for tipped workers until it matches the standard minimum wage by 2029, effectively eliminating the tipped minimum wage system that has long been a cornerstone of the restaurant industry. Under the proposed ballot question, tipping would still be allowed, but for the first time, restaurants would also be permitted to pool and share those tips with cooks, bookkeepers, and other back-of-the-house workers who aren’t currently allowed to share in the tips from waitstaff and bartenders. On the surface, this might seem like a straightforward way to improve workers’ lives; however, the situation is far more complex.

Our independent restaurants are woven into the fabric of North Central Massachusetts. They are more than just places to eat; they are economic engines, social hubs, and integral parts of the identity for many of our communities. These establishments breathe life into our downtowns and commercial districts, draw visitors to our region, provide first jobs to our youth, and create sustainable careers for many. They support a network of local suppliers, farms and other small businesses. The meal and property taxes generated also contribute substantially to funding essential municipal services and schools in our communities.

The current tipped wage system, when implemented correctly, allows for a delicate balance. It keeps menu prices affordable while enabling servers to earn well above minimum wage through a combination of base pay and tips.

If Question 5 passes, restaurant owners will face some stark choices: significantly raise prices, reduce staff, or both. This isn’t mere speculation. We’ve heard directly from local restaurant owners who are deeply concerned about their ability to keep their doors open if this measure passes. This measure would come at a time when their industry, which has always operated on thin margins, is still rebounding from the pandemic, coping with inflation and high credit card fees, wrestling with soaring energy and insurance costs, and adapting to changes in dining habits in a work-from-home economy. Their alarm signals a threat not just to our beloved establishments, but to our broader economic ecosystem.

Higher menu prices could lead to reduced customer traffic, especially in a time when many households are already feeling the pinch of inflation. Reduced staffing would mean fewer job opportunities, particularly for young people and those seeking flexible work arrangements. And if restaurants close, we lose not just those jobs, but the spillover economic benefits restaurants provide to neighboring businesses and suppliers.

Moreover, the elimination of the tipped wage system could paradoxically lead to lower take-home pay for many servers. If restaurants raise prices to cover higher base wages, customers may tip less, believing that gratuities are no longer necessary. Potentially introducing tip pooling to back-of-the-house workers could also further erode server earnings, resulting in servers earning less overall than they do under the current system.

It’s also worth noting that Massachusetts already has strong protections in place for tipped workers. If a server’s tips plus their base wage don’t reach the standard minimum wage, employers are required to make up the difference. This ensures that no tipped employee ever earns less than the standard minimum wage.

As we consider our vote on Question 5, let’s remember the full picture of what’s at stake: this isn’t just about a number on a paycheck. It’s about the vitality of our downtowns, the opportunities for our youth, the diversity of our culinary scene, and the overall economic health of our region.

I urge voters to carefully consider these broader implications and vote “No” on Question 5. Let’s instead work together to find solutions that support good wages and thriving local businesses—goals that are not mutually exclusive when approached thoughtfully.

Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM
President and CEO
North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce

Why MCAS Matters: Upholding Standards for Our Students and Economy

Posted on October 31st/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

As the Commonwealth’s voters go to the polls in less than a month, we at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce are deeply concerned about Massachusetts Ballot Question 2, which proposes to eliminate the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) statewide standardized tests as a primary high school graduation requirement. While well-intentioned, this measure threatens to undermine the educational progress our state has made and could have far-reaching consequences for our students, businesses and regional economy.

MCAS has been a cornerstone of the Massachusetts education system since passage of the 1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Act. This law was a bipartisan effort resulting in significant new funding for education, accompanied by high statewide standards for learning, and a system for measuring progress. More than thirty years later, schools in Massachusetts are the envy of America, propelled from the middle of the pack to the very top of the national education rankings today. But this achievement is more than just a point of pride—it’s a key driver of our state’s economic competitiveness.

In North Central Massachusetts, we’ve seen firsthand how a strong education system attracts businesses, creates jobs and helps build thriving communities. MCAS plays a crucial role in maintaining accountability and high standards, ensuring that a Massachusetts high school diploma signifies a basic level of academic achievement.

Proponents of Question 2 argue the MCAS creates undue stress and doesn’t accurately measure student abilities. They also contend the system unfairly impacts students facing various challenges, including those with disabilities, from low-income households, and experiencing other forms of educational disadvantages. While we acknowledge MCAS isn’t perfect, we believe eliminating the state’s only graduation requirement is an overreaction that could have unintended negative consequences.

Removing the MCAS could lead to a patchwork of standards across the state, potentially exacerbating educational inequities. Without a common benchmark, it becomes challenging to ensure all students, regardless of their zip code, receive a quality education that prepares them for future success. The MCAS also serves as an important assessment tool, providing valuable data to help identify and address achievement gaps. Losing this tool could make it harder to pinpoint areas where additional resources and support are needed, ultimately disadvantaging the students who need help the most. Our region’s economic growth depends on a skilled workforce. Weakening our education standards could also make us less attractive to businesses looking to invest and expand.

Instead of scrapping the MCAS and eliminating uniform, statewide standards, we should focus on improving it. We can work to make the test more inclusive and representative of diverse learning styles while maintaining high standards. We can also enhance support systems for students who struggle with standardized tests without lowering the bar for everyone.

As business leaders, we understand the importance of measurement and continuous improvement. The MCAS has played a significant role in Massachusetts’ rise to educational prominence, benefiting students, families, and our economy.

We urge voters to consider the broader implications of Question 2 carefully. A “No” vote will help preserve the high standards that have served our students and economy so well. Abandoning uniform statewide standards and a commitment to educational excellence would be a great disservice to our young people and their future success.

Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM
President & CEO
North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce

North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce welcomes Patrick O’Hara to its Professional Staff

Posted on October 29th/in Chamber News /by northcentralmass

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick O’Hara as Manager of Membership Recruitment and Engagement.

In this position, he will be responsible for managing marketing and outreach to prospective members while also providing superior frontline customer service and support for current members. Additionally, he will drive a membership strategy that projects the Chamber’s message/brand to all of our stakeholders.

O’Hara brings to the Chamber extensive marketing and sales experience. He has worked with businesses in Central Massachusetts for over 25 years helping them with marketing, advertising and sales strategies. Most recently, he served as Territory Sales Manager for Land.com CoStar. He previously served as a consultative salesperson at CBS Radio, WXLO, and was a manager at WCRN830 AM. He is skilled at handling enterprise accounts as well as mom and pop businesses. Over the years, he has engaged in all aspects of multimedia solutions including digital, radio, cable, tv, print, event marketing and video with specialized training in the automotive and real estate sectors.

O’Hara’s experience as a small business owner also adds valuable perspective to his role at the Chamber. He was the founder of O’Hara Management Inc., a real estate management and development firm and he also owned and operated Tempest Advertising, a full-service advertising agency with customers like Kelly’s Roast Beef, Colonial Automotive Group, Cully’s Snowmobile Ranch, and Elite Entertainment.

“I am excited to have Patrick join our team, he will be a great help in supporting our efforts to promote our members and the communities of North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “His energy, experience and marketing knowledge will make a positive contribution to our efforts to engage business leaders and advance the regional economy.”

O’Hara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Northeastern University and has earned various Google certifications. He resides in Westminster and is actively involved in the community, most notably serving as the Founder, President, and Coach of the Ashburnham-Westminster Whalers Hockey Club.

Current members or businesses interested in learning more about the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce can reach out to Patrick O’Hara at 978.353.7600 ext. 239 or via email at .