The last few months have easily been the most disruptive anyone has experienced since the Second World War. Not only has the nation been forced to contend with a public health crisis, but the ensuing orders to shutter and shelter in place have wreaked havoc on our economy. Both Beacon Hill and Capitol Hill have taken drastic action to face this duel challenge, and the Chamber has actively worked to ensure that the needs of North Central Massachusetts and our employers are addressed by these efforts.
Governor Baker addresses the business community at a Good Morning North Central event last winter.
When Governor Baker announced the establishment of a reopening taskforce in May, we were quick to submit recommendations encouraging them to ensure clarity in their guidance and prioritize the needs of small businesses. We have continued this advocacy since then, with Chamber staff serving on local reopening committees and participating in weekly calls with the Secretary of Housing and Economic Development- who cochairs the state’s taskforce. This approach has proven effective, allowing us to ensure businesses remain abreast of the latest developments while helping to improve communications between state and municipal officials as they navigate the reopening process.
As with many things, this crisis has also disrupted the state’s legislative calendar. A number of major bills – including transportation reform, climate change and health care – have been overtaken by COVID-19’s immediate urgency. Lawmakers anticipate the state will absorb billions of dollars in lost revenues and increased costs as it works to simultaneously contain the virus and address the ensuing economic fallout. This has been compounded by uncertainty regarding federal aid, creating a significant challenge for the Legislature as they work to develop a balanced budget for the fiscal year that began July 1, 2020.
Given this lack of clarity, the State House is expected to pass a series of one twelfth budgets for now, funding state operations from month to month. Unfortunately, though this allows lawmakers to adjust spending as revenue figures come into focus, it creates uncertainty for municipalities, which rely on state aid for their own budgets. In turn, this impacts school funding decisions and the availability of other services. It could also affect non-profits and state contractors were the Commonwealth to eliminate certain local programs or infrastructure projects. Of further concern are calls to increase taxes in an effort to bridge revenue shortfalls. This would exacerbate the current crisis, slowing investment, hiring, and – ultimately – recovery.
On the federal level, Congress recently passed an extension of the PPP stimulus program through August 8. There are also reports that Congress is planning to pass another stimulus package, which may also include a consensus on state financial aid.The Chamber staff has remained in close contact with national partners and the region’s Congressional Delegation on these issues.
The Chamber will continue to monitor issues important to our members and region at the local, state and federal levels. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to the Chamber’s public affairs manager- Christopher McDermott- at (978) 353-7600 ext. 224 or . We want your voice to be heard.
New Challenges in Vaccine Production During Global Pandemics
by Nelson Landrau, CEO/Founder; Malcolm G. Pluskal, PhD.
How a Leominster, MA company is providing resources and expertise to support national and worldwide vaccine production
Nelson Landrau, CEO/Founder of Landrau Scientific Innovations
Massachusetts has encouraged and supported Biopharmaceutical R&D and large-scale Biologics manufacturing throughout the last 30+ years and has become one of the world leaders in development of new technology platforms. Influenza, SARS, and the recent COVID-19 pandemic, have increased the demand for novel vaccine production technologies to bring these vaccines to market quickly and in large quantities.
This demand has stimulated development of new mRNA-based vaccines by local companies in the Boston area. These new oligonucleotide-based vaccines offer great flexibility with respect to production and applications.This scientific approach will enable any protein to be encoded and expressed by an in vitro transcribed mRNA. In principle enabling the development of wide range of prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines to fight a broad range of diseases. To illustrate this diversity, this technology platform is being applied to fight diseases such as viral infections, cancer, and protein replacement therapy. During the production of this novel therapy only the mRNA sequence of the therapeutic target molecule is optimized. This enables diverse products to be manufactured using the same established production process, saving time and reducing cost as compared with other vaccine platforms.
Although mRNA therapy is diverse and can create new vaccines in relatively short time period (as compared to other vaccine technology approaches) new manufacturing challenges have arisen to produce the large quantities of these novel vaccines to fight outbreaks such as COVID-19.As we react to this pandemic with this new class of vaccines based on mRNA and large molecule biologics, such as monoclonal antibodies future large-scale purification workflows will be challenged to meet production goals, regulatory requirements, and cost.Large scale production, packaging and formulation to facilitate long term storage and deployment of these new vaccines will be key to their success.For example, mRNA-based vaccines are being formulated in charged liposomes to enhance their intra-muscular uptake and delivery to the body’s immune system leading to in vivo production of therapeutic and viral neutralizing autoantibodies.
To meet some of these vaccine production demands several new purification technologies are under development in Leominster MA, to accelerate bringing these COVID-19 vaccines to market; 1) Immunoaffinity resins for harvesting recombinant vaccine candidates from cell culture.This approach, taken by the University of Queensland for their “clamp” viral antigen was first evaluated on a new orientated immobilization affinity bioprocess optimized resin developed in by LANSI. This new resin offers high antibody binding capacity while preserving full antibody-antigen binding efficiency. 2) mRNA vaccine candidates generated by in vitro transcription are being purified on oligo dT affinity resins targeting Poly A+ sequences on the 3’ end of the mRNA molecule.Existing first generation R&D oligo-dT affinity resins were based on cellulose beads not fully optimized for large-scale bioprocess applications.A new cellulose-based Oligo dT resin is under development at LANSI in collaboration with the Oligo Factory (Holliston, MA) based on resin beads that have been optimized for large scale bioprocess applications. Formulation of these novel vaccine candidates to confer stability and enhanced immunogenicity and delivery are in development at LANSI to support bringing these new vaccine molecules to market.
If your company has an mRNA or expressed protein viral antigen that you are looking for assistance in scale-up, purification, or formulation, please feel free to reach out to us for a complimentary confidential consultation at 978-537-2890 or write to us at info@lansi.tech. We have many years of experience in these fields and we are available to help you with your technical and product development needs.
What is a Guest Columnist?
Being a member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber provides members with many opportunities to gain valuable information and connections. We are always on the lookout for valuable content that would be on interest to our members and communities. In an effort to provide an avenue to more easily access the vast array of the knowledge and expertise that our members possess, we are now offering exclusive Guest Columnist articles for the benefit of our members. As a membership based organization, submissions will only be considered from members at the Business Choice level and above.
This is a great opportunity to position your business as a thought leader and expert. Columns should not be self-promotional or sales oriented ,and should consist of content that would be useful to businesses, including tips, answers to important questions and any insights that would be helpful to fellow members. By participating, members have the chance to better inform, educate and aid in the development of other members and the North Central Massachusetts region.
Please contact David Ginisi, Marketing and Communications Manager, if you are interested in participating: | 978.353.7600 x240
Once the major financial hurdles have been addressed, handing a family business over to the next generation can be handled in a variety of ways to suit your personal needs and goals. Obtaining professional help for determining any tax or legal issues should be placed at the top of the agenda. We value our local businesses, and their commitment to our community. Our guidelines can help you identify what items need to be addressed to ensure a seamless transition when handing off the keys to the store to the next generation.
Many local businesses have been in the same family for years. Your children may well have worked in the store growing up, and as they have gotten older, attended business meetings and begun to learn the ropes. The ability to help them get started while you are still able to advise and help them as problems arise is a wonderful opportunity for everyone.
Tips for Successfully Handing off the Family Business Keys to the to the Next Generation
As the current owner, and possibly the person who started the store, you will need to determine how much, if any, monetary compensation is required. The business can be transferred in various ways, gifted, sold at full or partial value, or put into a family corporation or trust with a different person named as manager.
A business plan and a transition plan can help your successfully transfer the business. If you are relying on a set income from the store, it is important to identify the role you will play in ensuring you receive it, and to have a contingency plan if it is not able to meet the goals.
Protecting the business against inter-family disputes should be discussed with a lawyer prior to transfer. Divorce, death, and changes in income can lead to problems between family members.
Ensure the person who is taking over the keys to the family store has the knowledge they need to operate it. If this person has not been active in all aspects of the business, they will require training. You will want to begin this process at least six months to a year prior to transferring the business.
Discuss with all family members what each person’s role, if any, will be in the business throughout the succession, and after, if you are keeping a portion of ownership.
Create a succession timeline and plan based on both of your needs. Some owners prefer a gradual turnover, while others do so all at once.
Accept that some things with the business will change. New products and technology are changing the way businesses operate and a fresh set of eyes may identify areas that are currently not performing as well as they should. Encourage your family to put their own personal stamp on the store.
We at the Chamber encourage all stores and family businesses to use our resources to increase their ability to be successful and continue to grow our community. Visit our Online Program On-Demand Library to discover educational tools to not only grow your business but also as a business owner.
Let’s Do Everything We Can to Stop the COVID-19 Pandemic
by Karen Munkacy, M.D.
Karen Munkacy, M.D., Founder, President & CEO of Garden Remedies
The current pandemic has certainly uprooted lives all around the world. Our government is overburdened, healthcare and essential workers are on the frontlines facing a crisis, and supplies are strained. Now more than ever, it is important for businesses big and small to contribute to their local communities and help lift those who have supported them to get to where they are. It is a critical time to evaluate and change how we do business to accommodate the pandemic. We are not only facing a global virus, but we are all experiencing heightened anxiety during a time of great uncertainty. We can be a voice of comfort to our communities and show our empathy while adjusting to this new normal.
The pandemic is pushing us to be flexible and creative in finding solutions. Resourcefulness is key in overcoming obstacles and inventing new ideas and pushes us to think outside our normal thought process. Although I knew it all along, I learned how strong, resourceful, and creative my team is in how they have responded to this challenge. With sanitation supplies and masks running scarce, they did not hesitate to step up and explore their ideas to preserve resources all while keeping everyone safe.Gene Ray, our VP of Laboratory Operations, and his team started the initiative of making sanitizing fluid to be used in our facilities to keep our customers and employees safe. Suzan Wentworth, a team member of our topical team, also jumped in to help by sewing face masks for our dispensary staff. Without the ideas experimented and brought to life by our team, our business would not have been able to operate as we are today.
Every company must expend the effort to create a better world and a safer place. As a company that strongly believes in giving back, we sought out to provide these resources to those in need. We are proud to have donated over 300 gallons of sanitizer to the Massachusetts Hospital Association and to the first responders in the communities in which we operate. We also made substantial monetary donations to the communities we do business in, to help with Covid-19 relief.Despite the obstacles we faced, our team worked hard to help our customers access legal cannabis products safely and support our local communities.We will continue to put resources into keeping people safe and delivering products in a secure, safe way.I got into this business solely to help people and it is our mission to find all the ways to do so.
Once the pandemic subsides, the need for safety and health precautions will remain as we are forced to adapt to this new normal. Many of us, including Garden Remedies, had to modify business operations completely to protect our customers and employees. By leveraging technology, we have been able to operate safely and process our orders online, limiting the amount of human interaction during pickup.
Unfortunately for retail, the pandemic prevents the customer interaction we value so much. Our goal as a company is driven on helping patients and providing our knowledge so we understood this aspect was too paramount to lose, especially during a time when they need our compassion the most.We then utilized our technology capabilities and created more platforms for customer engagement such as our online chat and video consultations for our patients and customers with questions.
The time for a re-envisioning your business plan is now. This is an opportunity to look at the scope of your business and see what needs to change, how consumer behavior has changed, and what you can do to help. It is essential to remember that the communities we live and work in are hurting and that we must not lose sight of the importance of giving back.
What is a Guest Columnist?
Being a member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber provides members with many opportunities to gain valuable information and connections. We are always on the lookout for valuable content that would be on interest to our members and communities. In an effort to provide an avenue to more easily access the vast array of the knowledge and expertise that our members possess, we are now offering exclusive Guest Columnist articles for the benefit of our members. As a membership based organization, submissions will only be considered from members at the Business Choice level and above.
This is a great opportunity to position your business as a thought leader and expert. Columns should not be self-promotional or sales oriented ,and should consist of content that would be useful to businesses, including tips, answers to important questions and any insights that would be helpful to fellow members. By participating, members have the chance to better inform, educate and aid in the development of other members and the North Central Massachusetts region.
Please contact David Ginisi, Marketing and Communications Manager, if you are interested in participating: | 978.353.7600 x240
This is for all you COVID-19 remote workers out there in North Central Mass and the people, like us, who care about them. Zoom meetings have taken over your day and perhaps your sanity, as well. So we’ve curated some tips to prevent you from becoming hollow-eyed and spirit-deprived.
Keep Your Mind and Body Sharp
For physical and mental health, actively adjust your habits to make sure that you keep sane and productive, even on your busiest days. If you use physical relaxation and mental de-focusing to give your mind and body a chance to pause, you can learn to stay effective as these technologies play a larger part in our lives.
Leave Your Chair Between Meetings
Don’t get stuck in back-to-back meetings. Stretch and get a change of scenery, take a few laps on the treadmill, or have a cold drink. Make sure that your calendar blocks out a few minutes’ buffer after each meeting so that no one slips another one in that starts too quickly.
Mind Your Kids’ Screen Time Too
Those of us who are parents have probably noticed our kids, even very young, becoming Zoom Zombies too. As we learn to cope, we can help them adjust. Our community will benefit in COVID time and beyond if we all learn to Zoom healthily.
Use Your Phone for Mobility
If you’re not an active meeting participant, turn off your camera and use the dial-in number or a Bluetooth headset. Give yourself some freedom to roam but leave the meeting video on for reference. On regular meetings, choose some to join audio-only and make your impression by your knowledge, not your hairstyle.
Change Your Environment When You’re “AFK”
AFK is gamer-speak for “away from keyboard,” or taking a break — off the clock, we say. Make sure that your AFK time is outdoors, playing with your pets, or taking a hike up Wachusett Mountain. Don’t forget your Zombie snacks, goodies that turn you human again- our Johnny Appleseed Visitors’ Center is chock full of locally-made snacks featuring the likes of Golden Girl Granola, apple cider donuts from Red Apple Farm, cheese sticks from Smith’s Country Cheese and so much more.
Be an Active Listener
One way to restore the connection is to use active listing techniques. Paying close attention to the speaker, pause, then begin your response with a summary of what you heard. It maintains continuity and improves the human connection as well.
A Taste of Business Meetings to Come
With telehealth and virtual conventions joining Zoom meetings as essential tools in the future, it will pay to learn to adapt. As usual, our kids are already doing it with their boundless energy. They chat, game, and live much of their lives online. We, too, can relax, interact, and avoid becoming Zoom Zombies — maybe even enjoy online life.
We hope you find these tips helpful. Try to implement one or two the next time you join in on one of our online programs. Also, be sure to visit our Online Program On-Demand Library to catch up on any content you may have missed.
David A. Duval, president and founder of Protective Services, Inc. has been elected Chair of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2020-2021. The announcement was made at the chamber’s Annual Meeting: An Online Event on June 11, 2020.
Based in Lunenburg, Protective Services was established in 1979 by David Duval, who still remains the company’s president. Since its founding, Protective Services has been servicing businesses, institutions and residents in North Central Massachusetts with fire, security, surveillance, access control and sprinkler system contracting. Their long-standing reputation of excellence along with their fully dynamic range of services, make Protective Service Inc a leader in supporting small and large businesses, financial institutions and educational institutions with the superior services they need.
In addition to his involvement with the Chamber, Mr. Duval also currently chairs the Massachusetts Systems Contractors Association and sat on the State Board of Fire Prevention Fire Protection, for 14 years. He is also active in several other state industry associations and organizations. Nationally, Mr. Duval is a member of the the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association and the Automatic Fire Alarm Association. Mr. Duval earned his bachelors degree in engineering from the University of Massachusetts Lowell.
He is married to wife Leslie and resides in Leominster. Mr. Duval also has a son, Alex, who is currently a student at George Washington University in Washington D.C.
Duval was first elected to the Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2013 and has held several leadership positions including Vice Chair, Treasurer and has served on the Chamber’s Leadership Council. Mr. Duval is also a board member of theNorth Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), an affiliate of the Chamber, where he serves as Vice Chair.As the Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, Mr. Duval will work with the Board, Chamber staff, and membership to champion the Chamber in its mission to serve the region’s business community.
“We are honored to have David serve as the Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors,” said Roy Nascimento, Chamber president & CEO. “We are fortunate to have someone with his experience and strong history of leadership help guide our organization’s efforts. We look forward to working with him to help our members and the communities of North Central Massachusetts persevere through what is expecting to be a very challenging and difficult time over the next year”
He succeeds Steve Rocheleau, president of Rocheleau Tool & Die Co. Inc., who now moves to the position of Immediate Past Chair of the Board of Directors.
“It is an honor and privilege to serve as Chair of this dynamic and respected organization that plays such an important role in shaping the region’s future ,” expressed Mr. Duval, “I am excited to continue Steve Rocheleau’s efforts and work to support our members and advance North Central Massachusetts..”
In the same election, Rachel Lopez, president of Resource Management, Inc. in Fitchburg, was elected Vice-Chair and director Christopher McCarthy, president & COO of Fidelity Bank of Leominster, was elected to the position of Treasurer.Board members elected for a new three-year term were Tony Fields, president and owner of Cleartech Group in Leominster; Elaine Fluet, president & CEO of Care Central VNA and Hospice in Gardner; and Bruce Platzman, president of AIS, Inc. in Leominster; Re-elected for three year terms were Henry Tessman, general manager of Great Wolf Lodge New England in Fitchburg; and Dr. James Vander Hooven, president of Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner.
Continuing current terms on the Board of Directors are Neil Abramson, CFO of ECI Stores in Leominster; Will Aubuchon, president & CEO of W.E. Aubuchon Company in Westminster; Steve Duvarney, owner of Duvarney Jewelers in Fitchburg and Clinton; Matthew Fournier, president of Elite Construction & Design in Fitchburg; Mark Freeman, president of SteelFab, Inc. in Fitchburg; Dr. Richard Lapidus, president of Fitchburg State University in Fitchburg; Anne Leader, president of Vision Payroll in Leominster; Cheryl Molebash, general manager of Dixie Consumer Products in Leominster; John O’Brien, president & CEO of Leominster Credit Union in Leominster.
About the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce (northcentralmass.com) is a business advocacy, economic development organization working to create and sustain relationships among businesses and between businesses and the community. With nearly 700 member firms, employing over 25,000 people in the region, the Chamber is working to foster economic opportunity in Fitchburg, Leominster, and surrounding communities. Find the Chamber online at northcentralmass.com or on Twitter at @NCMChamber.
On Community Colleges
by The Honorable Stephen Brewer
Stephen Brewer, State Senator Ret., Mount Wachusett Community College
This is a time in our history of enormous economic and cultural transformation that will summon the most creative and compassionate qualities of our society.
Throughout her history, our nation has answered the call to face great challenges. I am confident that we can utilize our great creative and collective spirit to address the challenges before us now. While we do, I am also hopeful that as Lincoln said, we can “summon the better angels of our nature” in the process.
The best social program is having a job, and we all must obtain the skills necessary for a new economy that enables us to adapt as effectively and efficiently as possible.
I have always been impressed with the mission of community colleges. The high cost of education has forced many people, especially those students who are economically disenfranchised, to either incur debt that will compromise their future, or to forgo a college education and training altogether.
Community colleges are an accessible, valuable, and logical pathway to the job market, or continuing to a four-year degree. Compelling evidence shows us that Massachusetts community colleges offer high-quality educational opportunities that are affordable and won’t leave you combing gray hair while you make your final student loan payment!
When I retired from a long career in public service, I was thoughtful about what I wanted my ‘second act’ to include. After having helped procure funding for a $40 million science wing for Mount Wachusett Community College, I was inspired by the working happening for and by the residents of North Central Massachusetts.
Working arm in arm with three Chambers of Commerce, Heywood Healthcare, dozens of private sector employees, as well as the municipal leaders of the communities in the region, the college operates in real-time to tailor its curriculum and training opportunities to each community’s specific needs.
The three campuses of Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner, Leominster, and Devens provide a diverse balance to the needs of each geography. I have witnessed faculty, staff, and administrative teams ground their work in student-centered philosophy. We are all here for the students.
Most recently, the Covid-19 pandemic has unwittingly brought to light this team’s tireless work to push forth the college’s mission in a safe, creative, and technologically accessible manner. It has been an enormous undertaking with an incredibly tight turnaround time.
Everything from the 2020 Commencement Ceremony, the Food Insecurity Programs, the Civic Engagement Programs, Veterans Programs, and the over 120,000 hours of volunteerism in the region, make me proud to advocate on behalf of such an important beacon for the Commonwealth.
It can not be understated how important it is that the institutions serving community college students respect the dignity and worth of those often neglected by our society. We must take action in our individual lives to reflect on how we can each be better, demand that the systems and structures of our society change to best serve the under-represented, and elevate the voices of the historically unheard.
Of course, Mount Wachusett Community College may not have the budget for expensive and glamorous marketing and communications campaigns. Despite this, I hope you’ll take to heart my endorsement of this college. Mount Wachusett provides students with an opportunity- regardless of age, wealth, status, or background. I am so grateful to have found a purposeful encore to my time in public service and will continue to champion these opportunities to all who will listen.
What is a Guest Columnist?
Being a member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber provides members with many opportunities to gain valuable information and connections. We are always on the lookout for valuable content that would be on interest to our members and communities. In an effort to provide an avenue to more easily access the vast array of the knowledge and expertise that our members possess, we are now offering exclusive Guest Columnist articles for the benefit of our members. As a membership based organization, submissions will only be considered from members at the Business Choice level and above.
This is a great opportunity to position your business as a thought leader and expert. Columns should not be self-promotional or sales oriented ,and should consist of content that would be useful to businesses, including tips, answers to important questions and any insights that would be helpful to fellow members. By participating, members have the chance to better inform, educate and aid in the development of other members and the North Central Massachusetts region.
Please contact David Ginisi, Marketing and Communications Manager, if you are interested in participating: | 978.353.7600 x240
Our world has dramatically changed since mid-March. We have all been working to address the impact of the Coronavirus crisis and are now striving to adjust to the “new normal.”
In staying true to our mission, we responded to ensure our members and communities have the guidance, resources, and support to effectively react and persevere through these very challenging and difficult times. As more and more of our economy continues to reopen, I wanted to provide you with another update on how the Chamber is assisting our local businesses:
Gift Local Fees Waived: To assist members who participate in the Gift Local program, the Chamber will be waiving all processing fees associated with this popular gift card program through at least December 31,2020. As we want to encourage consumers to shop and eat at local businesses as much as possible, we will also be eliminating the purchase fee charged to consumers when they buy a Gift Local Gift Card. Additionally, we are also implementing a new public relations and marketing campaign to encourage consumers to redeem gift cards and shop local, whenever possible. For more information on the program, visit our Gift Local website or contact David Ginisi, our Marketing Manager at the Chamber directly at 978.353.7600 ext. 240.
Billboard Campaign: In a related effort, our destination marketing arm—Visit North Central Massachusetts—is partnering with a group of regional tourism councils in the state to launch a new billboard campaign this month using the former “Spirit of Massachusetts” slogan. The goal of this campaign is to encourage more residents in the state to spend their dollars locally at our restaurants, shops, hotels, and attractions as they begin to reopen. The campaign will include the purchase of multiple billboard ads strategically located in high-traffic areas throughout the state and will also feature an online component with a dedicated website and social media posts. As our Chamber is dedicated to supporting the recovery of our members, we are looking forward to launching this campaign soon.
Inclusion, Diversity and Economic Opportunity:Given recent events regarding racial inequality occurring throughout the country, I wanted to share the Chamber’s position and how we are supporting the diverse community in North Central Massachusetts. First, the Chamber condemns racism and violence, and we believe in the right to free speech and supporting the right of those who raise their voices peacefully through protests. At the core of the Chamber’s values are inclusion and economic opportunity for all, which we have built into our entire organization through our programs, governance, marketing, operations, and economic development efforts. As we believe a diverse organization is a strong organization, our staff include a talented team of diverse professionals reflective of the communities we serve, and we have also made strong gains in the diversity of our Board, committees, and taskforces. When scheduling programs and events, as well as strategizing our marketing efforts, we are thoughtful to represent the diverse community of our members. Additionally, our efforts to improve education and career opportunities are closely tied to economic equity. By working in concert with various community groups, we have built strong partnerships on initiatives and participate in programs representing minority groups within North Central Massachusetts, such as our Elect North Central Coalition. We recognize we are not perfect, but everyone will always be welcomed and included at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, regardless of their race, gender, age, sexual orientation, industry they represent, or the size of their business.
Visitor Center: After being closed since mid-March, our Johnny Appleseed Visitors’ Center on Route 2 in Lancaster officially reopened on June 9, with new health and sanitization protocols in place to assure the safety of all guests, volunteers, and staff. The reopening of the center is an important milestone toward reopening our economy in North Central Massachusetts. Without places like the Visitor Center, the traveling public has limited places to stop and utilize the restrooms, take advantage of amenities, and learn more about the twenty-seven communities in North Central Massachusetts and what they have to offer for visitors and families.
Chamber Office: We have also begun the phased in process to fully reopen the Chamber office in Fitchburg. New health and cleaning protocols are in place to protect our staff and visitors. Members are welcome to come into the office for general services, such as manufacturing certifications, insurance-related matters, gift card sales, business counseling, loan closings and other matters; however, we encourage members to call ahead first to schedule an appointment. In accordance with the state’s guidelines, half of the staff will be in the office, while others are continuing to work remotely.
Lending and Technical Assistance: As throughout the pandemic, our team is only a phone call away and ready to help you and your business with any questions related to reopening or accessing some of the grant and loan programs available through the federal, state and local governments. There is still $120 billion available through the SBA’s Paycheck Protection Program, but the deadline of June 30 is quickly approaching. If you have not done so yet, we encourage you to contact your bank or credit union to inquire about applying. New rules have been passed by Congress that also impact the forgiveness aspect of the loan program. The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is also now available and accepting new applications. Please contact Sandie Cataldo, Economic Development Manager at the Chamber at 978.353.7600 ext. 232 with any questions or for any guidance.
Regional Economic and Recovery Plan: The Chamber has formed a special taskforce of members to oversee the development of a regional economic development and recovery plan. The taskforce is working with our consultant, RKG Associates, to develop the plan and we have been making steady progress. This plan will serve as an actionable blueprint to support the growth of our dynamic, regional economy. The last time we went through this process, the resulting plan had a significant impact in helping drive economic growth across the region. If you haven’t done so yet, please take a moment to complete this survey to provide your input, or feel free to email me your feedback. Thank you to those members who have already completed the survey, participated in a focus group session, or emailed their input/feedback to us. Also, thank you to the members of the taskforce for volunteering their time to help with this important initiative.
Jobs Board: As the economy continues to reopen and your needs change, members are encouraged to use our WorkNorthCentral.com online jobs board for recruitment efforts. More than 400 available jobs are currently posted, and the job board is regularly updated to help our members fill positions as quickly as possible. As a reminder, jobs posts are free for our members.
Online Programs: Since mid-March, we have held more than thirty online programs, ranging from webinars on the CARES Act, PPP and EIDL stimulus programs; to Congressional Updates with our delegation; to our 36th Annual Meeting and much more. We have also revamped our library of online programs on our website. We plan to continue providing the most up-to-date information for our business community through our popular online platforms.
Throughout this crisis, my confidence in our Chamber has never wavered because I know we can overcome any challenge when we work together. Over the past few months, the true spirit of the North Central Massachusetts business community was on full display, and we demonstrated that by working collectively, we can make a difference in the lives of our members, their families and employees, and the many residents who call North Central Massachusetts home.
Looking ahead, many challenges remain with the road to economic recovery now in front of us. As we transition from crisis response to recovery, the Chamber will be here for our members, and we will continue our commitment in having a leading role in rebuilding our local economy. We know these are likely the most difficult and challenging times our members have experienced, but as we have for more than 35 years, we are here to help you navigate these troubled waters.
Returning to Work Amidst the COVID-19 Crisis: Steps Employers Are Taking To Prepare and Protect Their People
by Bruce Platzman
Bruce Platzman, President of AIS, Inc.
As states across the country are re-opening, AIS is hearing from hundreds of companies that are preparing their workplaces for the return of employees. With many concerns and challenges in front of them, customers are looking for AIS to help them modify their office furniture in an effort to keep teams and visitors safe. Whether it’s a small business or a large employer, there are many common concerns and needs to consider as all prepare to reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Here’s a summary the top activities AIS and many of our customers are doing:
Protocols for employee well-being and safety. Many leaders realize it’s essential to have their teams feel positive and secure within their work environments as all return to the factory or office. There are many activities leaders can do to support this.
Good communications during this time is critical. Being very open and direct with employees about what your organization is doing to keep people safe is important. Whether you create a safety video (see AIS video here), regularly share your COVID-19 Response Plan, or send updates directly to employees via email or a company newsletter, it all matters.
Celebrating the return of employees to the office is a small gesture that can start the process off on a positive note. Many are making banners to hang in the office and creating care packages for all. Giving each person a few supplies to keep at their desk is thoughtful and appropriate. We’re providing each of our employees with a supply of disinfecting wipes to self-clean personal office areas, hand sanitizer, two washable/ reusable facemasks, and tissues.
Instill and enforce social distancing practices across your organization. It is important to create and share guidelines for how people enter the building; how many people should be in the cafeteria at one time; how many in the restroom at one time; etc.
Be clear and consistent with temperature checks. Let employees know how and when temperature checks will occur each day and follow through.
Scheduling teams of employees in/out of office on different days or staggered starttimes. Each manager may have the freedom to create the schedule and plan that works best for their department. It’s important that leaders be patient with everyone. This is new territory for the team and everyone has different levels of comfort, stress, and acceptance.
Keep guests and suppliers safe. While employees must feel safe and secure returning to work, it’s critical to think about all your visitors, too. Constructing, implementing, and communicating good protocols is essential.
More frequent and deeper cleaning practices. While most see this as an obvious need, it’s one of the most important activities an employer can do. Be sure your cleaning crew is following through daily. Everyone will notice if they aren’t and the expectation here is high.
Modifications to the workplace. Many employers are realizing the office layout we had in February won’t work for our needs today. What this translates to is modifications in big or small ways as we work to ensure the office can support the new needs during this pandemic.
Retrofitting offices is a common practice.Whether adding screens to desks, panels systems or tables, we’re seeing this is a popular solution. New or higher screens can often be retrofitted into a space, making them less costly than replacing workstations.Some are using mobile screens to divide spaces and separate workers, while others are adding higher panels to their existing stations.
Return of the cubicle.We can’t really determine if the high panel cubicles are coming back for good, but we can share that a resurgence of interest has occurred. New office projects often have panel systems at higher heights than we’ve seen in the recent past – and often with some glass panels, ensuring daylight can come through and users have views beyond their workstation.
Reorienting users in space. New projects are more sensitive to the layout of users. As employers work to prevent workers being face-to-face all day, furniture is being planned to keep users strategically separated.
More concern for cleanable materials. It’s no surprise many clients are seeking materials on their furniture that can withstand high frequency cleaning. We’re seeing glass, laminate and more vinyl and polyurethanes being explored for this reason. Some want to ensure their seating upholstery can be bleach-cleanable and this need is growing.
More exploration of antimicrobial materials. Very often the screens, panels, and seating in workplaces can be specified with an antimicrobial material. There are different types of materials out there to support this need and we’re seeing great interest in specifications for this as employers further work to protect employees.
Work from home office furniture packages. Some employers are allowing workers to continue to work remotely for a period of time. Often, these employers understand the importance of ergonomic furniture for the health and productivity of their people. AIS has constructed many Work From Home packages for customers during this time as the need continues to grow.
Setting guidelines for mask wearing. Many employers are requiring masks be worn with different guidelines for when and where to wear them. Employers are working to ID the balance where employees are protected while still being comfortable and productive. Mask wearing guidelines vary from wearing it all the time to wearing it when away from one’s desk – and everywhere in between. This is an area where individual companies will have to identify what works best for them – and then communicate and enforce it regularly.
About the author:
Bruce Platzman is the President and CEO of AIS, a $220 million office furniture manufacturer located in Leominster, Massachusetts and a designated Essential Employer during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
What is a Guest Columnist?
Being a member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber provides members with many opportunities to gain valuable information and connections. We are always on the lookout for valuable content that would be on interest to our members and communities. In an effort to provide an avenue to more easily access the vast array of the knowledge and expertise that our members possess, we are now offering exclusive Guest Columnist articles for the benefit of our members. As a membership based organization, submissions will only be considered from members at the Business Choice level and above.
This is a great opportunity to position your business as a thought leader and expert. Columns should not be self-promotional or sales oriented ,and should consist of content that would be useful to businesses, including tips, answers to important questions and any insights that would be helpful to fellow members. By participating, members have the chance to better inform, educate and aid in the development of other members and the North Central Massachusetts region.
Please contact David Ginisi, Marketing and Communications Manager, if you are interested in participating: | 978.353.7600 x240
To assist members who participate in the Gift Local program, the Chamber will be waiving all processing fees associated with this popular gift card program through at least December 31, 2020. As we want to encourage consumers to shop and eat at local businesses as much as possible, we will also be eliminating the purchase fee charged to consumers when they buy a Gift Local Gift Card. Additionally, we are also implementing a new public relations and marketing campaign to encourage consumers to redeem gift cards and shop local, whenever possible. For more information on the program, visit our Gift Local website or contact David Ginisi, our Marketing and Communications Manager at or at the Chamber directly at 978.353.7600 x240
