El centro-norte de Massachusetts celebra el 250º cumpleaños de Johnny Appleseed

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Celebración reconoce a pionero estadounidense, héroe popular de Massachusetts nacido en Leominster

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Sabbra Reyes, Subgerente del Centro de Visitantes Johnny Appleseed, y Diane Burnette, Gerente del Centro de Visitantes Johnny Appleseed, se unen a dos alpacas y al personal de Plain View Farm, Hubbardston, Massachusetts.

Funcionarios estatales y locales, y líderes comunitarios, empresariales y turísticos se unieron a miembros de la Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts y Visita el centro-norte de Massachusetts para conmemorar el 250º cumpleaños de John Chapman (conocido como “Johnny Appleseed”), nacido en la ciudad de Leominster el 26 de septiembre de 1774.

Si bien Appleseed nació y creció en Leominster, es considerado el héroe popular oficial de la Commonwealth y un pionero ecologista. Viajó durante casi 50 años por todo el país plantando estratégicamente semillas de manzano con la vista puesta en un futuro mercado para los cultivos, y vendió o a menudo regaló semillas y plántulas a los colonos en las comunidades.

Mark Bodanza, historiador local y autor de “Johnny Appleseed – el hombre detrás del folklore”, habló durante el evento sobre la historia de Johnny Appleseed y su significado no solo en la región, sino también en todo el mundo.

“Johnny Appleseed podría ser una de las figuras más enigmáticas de la historia estadounidense”, dijo Bodanza. “Personas cercanas y lejanas de su lugar de nacimiento en Leominster conocen su viaje. Esas expediciones no solo incluyeron la siembra de plántulas de manzano para los pioneros, sino también la difusión de sus creencias religiosas y su estilo de vida minimalista. Johnny Appleseed, uno de los personajes más insólitos de Estados Unidos, nos habla hoy con su legado como un suave recordatorio de tomarnos las cosas con calma, consumir solo lo necesario y mantenernos firmes en las creencias personales a pesar de la opinión popular”.”

El evento se llevó a cabo en el Centro de Visitantes Johnny Appleseedque es considerada por muchos la puerta de entrada al centro norte de Massachusetts y la última parada antes de entrar en Leominster, el pueblo natal de Appleseed.

Entre los asistentes al evento de hoy se encontraban la representante estatal Natalie Higgins; la representante estatal Meg Kilcoyne; y Jonathan Gulliver, del Departamento de Transporte de Massachusetts. Miembros de la Banda de Marcha de la Escuela Secundaria de Leominster interpretaron clásicos estadounidenses, y hubo una aparición especial de “Johnny Appleseed”, quien interactuó con los asistentes y disfrutó de una rebanada de pastel de cumpleaños.

Durante la celebración de hoy, se plantó un nuevo manzano en el centro para conmemorar el 250.º cumpleaños de Appleseed.

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Miembros de la Banda de Marcha de Leominster High School

“Mientras todos tenemos la imagen de Johnny Appleseed usando un sombrero de olla de sopa con una bolsa en la espalda esparciendo semillas de manzana por el campo, también fue un exitoso hombre de negocios que ayudó a florecer a muchas comunidades nuevas”, dijo Roy M. Nascimento, presidente y director ejecutivo de Visit North Central Massachusetts y la Cámara de Comercio de North Central Massachusetts. “Hoy celebramos su nacimiento plantando un manzano para que los visitantes de nuestra región disfruten y recuerden su legado de apoyar a los pioneros y plantar semillas para proporcionar alimentos nutritivos para las generaciones”.”

El Centro de Visitantes Johnny Appleseed, operado por la Johnny Appleseed Trail Association (que opera como Visit North Central Massachusetts), está lejos de ser un típico área de descanso. Este destino único exhibe el legado de Johnny Appleseed y la rica herencia agrícola e industrial del centro de Massachusetts a través de una colección curada de objetos históricos, arte local y exhibiciones atractivas.

En la entrada, los visitantes son recibidos por una popular escultura de bronce del joven Johnny Appleseed, obra del artista local Peter Cote. Los terrenos del centro cuentan con 91 manzanos, incluyendo tres manzanos Rambo que son descendientes directos del último árbol conocido plantado por el propio Appleseed. Una réplica de una casa de la época colonial, representativa de los aposentos de Appleseed, añade contexto histórico. Los terrenos también presumen de bancos artísticos, incluyendo una silla de telesilla inspirada en Johnny Appleseed, donada por Wachusett Ski Area y convertida en una zona de asientos única, y otro banco de madera tallada a mano, creado por un escultor de madera local y representativo del orgullo del patrimonio en la industria del mueble.

En el interior, el centro expone artesanías locales, murales de temporada, objetos históricos de toda la región y recuerdos de la época de Johnny Appleseed. Una popular tienda de regalos vende artículos locales, incluyendo mermeladas, jaleas, dulces, productos relacionados con las manzanas y una variedad de libros sobre Johnny Appleseed y la historia de la región.

Quizás lo más llamativo sea la “Manzana Grande de Nueva Inglaterra”, la estructura de manzana más grande de su tipo en la región, que se ha convertido en un lugar favorito para los visitantes que se toman selfies.

El Centro de Visitantes Johnny Appleseed abre los siete días de la semana, 361 días al año, de 9:00 a. m. a 5:00 p. m. Solo cierra los días de Acción de Gracias, Navidad, Pascua, Día de la Independencia y temprano en la víspera de Navidad.

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North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to host Legislative and Candidates Reception

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Premier event connects elected officials, candidates for office, with local business and community leaders

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 Legislative and Candidates Reception will be held on September 26, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Chocksett Inn, 59 Laurelwood Road in Sterling. Mount Wachusett Community College is the premier sponsor for the event while Open Sky Community Services will serve as supporting sponsor.

The Legislative and Candidates Reception, held every fall, is one of the region’s premier events intended to offer local business and community leaders the opportunity to connect with the region’s elected officials, as well as those seeking public office.

“Government affairs and public policy advocacy are key components in our efforts to promote a healthy, active business climate throughout the region,” said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This reception offers direct access to our elected officials and candidates running for office in a casual environment where our members can ask questions and learn more about the issues and opportunities for businesses in our region.”

“We understand the importance of engaging with the region’s business and legislative leaders as these connections and insights help guide the college in various areas, such as programming and outreach,” said James Vander Hooven, president, Mount Wachusett Community College. “It is crucial for our region’s business leaders, legislators, and policy-makers to have this opportunity to meet and network so they can engage and learn from each other. I am thrilled to once again be able to support this important event.”

All officials representing, and candidates running for office, in the Chamber’s 27 communities are encouraged to attend.

As of September 19, the following officials have confirmed their attendance*:

State Auditor Diana DiZoglio
Senator John Cronin, Worcester and Middlesex District
Senator Peter Durant, Worcester and Hampshire District
Senator Jamie Eldridge, Middlesex and Worcester District
Representative Kim Ferguson, 1st Worcester District
Representative Natalie Higgins, 4th Worcester District
Representative Meg Kilcoyne, 12th Worcester District
Representative Mike Kushmerek, 3rd Worcester District
Representative Susannah Whipps, 2nd Franklin District
Representative Jon Zlotnik, 2nd Worcester District
Mayor Sam Squailia, City of Fitchburg
Mayor Mike Nicholson, City of Gardner
Councilor Andrew Couture, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Paul Beauchemin, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Sally Cragin, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Derek Cruz, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Marisa Fleming, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Peter Angelini, City of Leominster
Councilor Frank Ardinger, City of Leominster
Councilor Mark Bodanza, City of Leominster
Councilor Sue Chalifoux-Zephir, City of Leominster
Councilor David Cormier, City of Leominster
Councilor Claire Freda, City of Leominster
Councilor Bob Tocci, City of Leominster
Town Administrator Andrew McClean, Town of Pepperell
Assistant Town Administrator, Logan Bries, Town of Shirley
Town Administrator Bill Caldwell, Town of Sterling
Town Administrator, Stephanie Lahtinen Town of Westminster
Selectman Peter Cunningham, Town of Groton
Selectman Ralph Gifford III, Town of Lancaster
Selectwoman Nicole Gough, Town of Phillipston
Selectman Salvatore “Sam” Albert, Town of Westminster
Selectman Michael Cooley, Town of Westminster

*This list is subject to change

The event will feature an open bar and gourmet appetizers and hors d’oeuvres. Cost for members is $45 and non-members is $55. Registration is available online at www.northcentralmass.com. Please contact Valerie Bruno at 978.353.7600 ext. 235 or for more details.

Registrarse ahora

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Healey-Driscoll Administration Announces Massachusetts 250 Initiative to Celebrate the Anniversary of America’s Independence

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Statewide Initiative will Commemorate Massachusetts’ Pivotal Role in America’s Founding; Launch Included Announcement of $1.5 Million in Grants for Revolutionary War Cultural Programming

Governor Maura Healey and Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll joined Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, state officials, legislators, and representatives from the Massachusetts arts, culture, and tourism industry at the State House to launch Massachusetts 250, a statewide initiative to celebrate 250 years of America’s independence and Massachusetts’ revolutionary legacy. The initiative will highlight the state’s rich history and amplify untold stories of the Revolution through hundreds of cultural and community events over the next two years.

Today’s event included a grand display with reenactors, dignitaries, and historic militia personnel joining the celebration on the steps of the State House. During the event, Governor Healey and Lieutenant Governor Driscoll also announced $1.5 million in grants to 37 organizations through the Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism (MOTT) to support the development of projects that promote Massachusetts’ Revolutionary War history.

“Massachusetts is where the Revolution began and where the Revolution continues. We are first in freedom, first in education, first in health care and first in innovation. And with Massachusetts 250, we’re leading commemorations of the Revolutionary War for the next two years,” said Governor Maura Healey. “Massachusetts 250 is a statewide, ongoing celebration of our history and everything that makes our state special. We’re excited to launch this campaign which will draw visitors, drive local economies, and share the whole story of Massachusetts and our nation through the voices of every community.”

“Massachusetts 250 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to celebrate Massachusetts’ history and showcase the state as a top destination for visitors from across the country and worldwide,” said Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll. “Statewide partnerships and events will commemorate our revolutionary spirit, highlighting the far-reaching impacts of Massachusetts in revolutionary history and the many other firsts that originated here, creating a powerful celebration of our civic pride.”

The Massachusetts 250 Grant Program, administered by MOTT within the Executive Office of Economic Development, will fund projects that highlight historic themes of revolution and independence, celebrate significant “firsts” in Massachusetts history, and take a creative or innovative approach to commemorating the state’s past 250 years. A full list of grant recipients is available online.

“The Semiquincentennial is a tremendous economic opportunity for Massachusetts businesses and cultural institutions that will offer world-class experiences to visitors eager to participate in these historic occasions,” said Economic Development Secretary Yvonne Hao. “We’re excited to see the creative campaign drive economic activity within our local and regional economies and thrilled to see grant recipients showcase the iconic stories of Massachusetts’ revolutionary past.”

“This campaign captures the significance of Massachusetts as a force for innovation, a cultural cornerstone, and a foundation of our nation,” said MOTT Executive Director Kate Fox. “Massachusetts 250 is an incredible opportunity to elevate the contributions and assets of our state, allowing visitors to experience how Massachusetts has played a pivotal role in America’s independence while engaging with all of our natural beauty and historical and cultural institutions. We look forward to welcoming everyone to celebrate this national milestone here in Massachusetts.”

The Massachusetts 250 creative campaign will collaborate with municipalities, community groups, businesses, and local organizations to commemorate the state’s revolutionary history over the next two years. Statewide partnerships and programs will engage locals and visitors in experiences that narrate iconic historical moments like the Shot Heard Around the World, Battle of Bunker Hill, Boston Tea Party, and Paul Revere’s Ride. Library programs, Revolutionary Weekends, and signature events will highlight the untold stories of Native Americans, women, and people of color who played crucial roles in shaping America and Massachusetts. The creative campaign, spearheaded by the Boston-based creative marketing firm Proverb, will include billboards in Times Square in New York City and other out-of-state markets, as well as digital and social media ads.

“Massachusetts 250 builds on the work that has been done by the Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and historic organizations throughout the Commonwealth to launch Massachusetts forward as we highlight our contributions to the founding of the United States over the next two years,” said Senator Paul Mark, Co-Chair of the Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and Senate Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. “The grants being awarded today will help support the collaborative efforts that will ensure that Massachusetts successfully showcases our amazing history and attractions while also demonstrating our leadership and potential for the future.”

“This Massachusetts250 campaign will help to highlight Massachusetts’ pivotal role as the birthplace of the American Revolution and showcase the Commonwealth’s legacy of courage, independence and leadership,” said Representative Mindy Domb (D-Amherst), Co-Chair of the Special Commission on the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution and House Chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development. “This campaign has an opportunity to highlight how Massachusetts continues to embrace revolution, change and our commitment to create a more equitable and just commonwealth and country. I’m looking forward to the cross-commonwealth celebration and eager to learn the untold stories of those whose struggles and resilience continue to shape and strengthen our commonwealth and nation.”

Massachusetts 250 Grant Awardees:

  • 1Berkshire, Pittsfield
  •  Boston 4 Foundation, Boston
  •  Carlisle Historical Society< Carlisle
  •  Charlestown Historical Society, Boston
  •  City of Cambridge, Cambridge
  •  City of Chelsea, Chelsea
  •  City of Fall River, Fall River
  •  City of Salem, Salem
  •  Congregational Library & Archives, Boston
  •  Essex National Heritage, Inc., Salem
  •  Explore New Bedford, New Bedford
  •  Framingham History Center, Framingham
  •  Freedom Trail Foundation, Boston
  •  Freedom’s Way Heritage Association, Devens
  •  Friends of Doherty Park, Boston
  •  Hingham Historical Society, Hingham
  •  Historic New England, Haverhill
  •  Lexington Historical Society, Lexington
  •  Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston
  •  Museum of African American History, Boston and Nantucket
  •  Museum of Old Newbury, Newburyport
  •  North of Boston Convention and Visitors Bureau, Salisbury
  •  Plimoth Patuxet Museums, Plymouth
  •  Porter-Phelps-Huntington Museum, Hadley
  •  Somerville Museum, Somerville
  •  Springfield Preservation Trust, Springfield
  •  The Concord Museum, Concord
  •  The Innovation Trail of Greater Boston, Boston
  •  The Museum of Printing, Haverhill
  •  Town of Arlington, Arlington
  •  Town of Concord, Concord
  •  Town of Visitors Center, Lexington
  •  Town of Weymouth, Weymouth
  •  USS Constitution Museum, Boston
  •  Visit North Central Massachusetts, Fitchburg
  •  WBUR, Boston
  •  White Snake Projects, Brookline

Visit massachusetts250.org for more information and follow the campaign on Instagram, Facebook, and Threads.

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North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce leads effort to install welcome signage in Lunenburg

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Sign provides recognition of civic pride for residents and visitors alike

The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce today announced it has sponsored the construction of a new welcome sign for the Town of Lunenburg located on Lancaster Avenue near Stillman Farm.

The new sign is part of a project to construct welcome signs at key gateways in communities to boost civic pride and serve as a positive first impression for visitors. The project was partially funded by a grant secured by the Chamber.

“One of the goals of our regional economic development plan, One North Central, was to capitalize on our region’s unique locations,” said Roy Nascimento, President and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “Each community brings a distinctive experience to the region and with this project, those entering Lunenburg will receive a warm, New England welcome with Blue Knight pride as residents return home and visitors experience the history, businesses and farms that Lunenburg offers.”

“As Lunenburg is located at the crossroads of two major arteries in North Central Massachusetts, we are grateful for the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to provide us with these welcome signs as a way for motorists to recognize they are entering into our vibrant community,” said Carter Terenzini, interim town manager, Town of Lunenburg. “From our Village Center District to our many farms, businesses and community events, Lunenburg provides that quaint New England feeling and these signs are a way for us to welcome residents home and encourage visitors to explore all that we have to offer.”

The signs were designed and produced by Add-A-Sign in Leominster and represent the region’s traditional New England style. The Lunenburg welcome sign includes a carving of the Town of Lunenburg seal and is painted in the town’s proud color of green.

In addition to Lunenburg, similar welcome signs have been installed at key gateways in Fitchburg, Gardner, Hubbardston, Leominster, Pepperell, Sterling and Westminster. Additional signs will be constructed for other communities in North Central Massachusetts as funding becomes available.

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Chamber Hosting Office Hours with State Economic Development Officials

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In a partnership with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD), MassDevelopment, Mass Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC), and MassHire, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce will be hosting state economic development officials for one-on-one appointments with local developers, manufacturers, and business owners. The meetings are an opportunity to discuss any specific matters related to their business or the expansion of their business, as well as to review state resources available to support business growth and expansion.

Kevin Kuros, Central Massachusetts Director for MOBD; Rob Anderson, Vice President of MassDevelopment; Chuck Merrill, Senior Loan Officer for MGCC; and Scott Percifull, Program Coordinator for MassHire; will be available at the Chamber office by appointment on Monday, September 23 between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. The appointments are in thirty-minute increments and are first come, first serve. The meetings are free and confidential, available on a non-discriminatory basis, and are handicapped accessible.

MOBD helps businesses relocating to Massachusetts and businesses wishing to expand their current operations here. MOBD is responsible for managing the state’s Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP) which provides tax credits for qualifying business expansion projects. In addition, they provide information on other state economic development programs, including the state’s R&D tax credit, the Mass Life Science Center tax incentives, the Workforce Training Fund grant program, the STEP grant offered through the Mass Office of International Trade and Investment, and other state resources. MOBD also oversees the Massachusetts Center for Employee Ownership (MassCEO) which is focused on supporting businesses considering converting to an employee ownership structure.

MassDevelopment, the state’s development finance agency, and land bank, works with businesses, nonprofits, banks, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the Commonwealth. During FY2023, MassDevelopment financed or managed 545 projects generating investment of more than $2 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are estimated to create or support 10,522 jobs and build or preserve 1,583 housing units.

MGCC helps small businesses create and preserve jobs by providing access to working capital, loan guarantees, business resources, and targeted managerial assistance that solves specific financial and operational problems. MGCC works with traditional financial institutions to turn “un-bankable” businesses bankable, Community Development Centers and non-profits to provide financing for job-producing projects, and directly with businesses to find the growth capital they require.

MassHire Bizworks/Rapid Response coordinates state and federal resources for businesses, offering a single point of contact to multiple programs. The MassHire Rapid Response team provides layoff prevention, early intervention re-employment, layoff management, and outplacement services to companies and their employees. Additionally, we offer employment and training resources, including assistance with recruitment, hiring, and tax credit programs.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Sandie Cataldo, Senior Economic Development Manager at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce at 978.353.7600 ext. 232 or via email at .

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Actualización de asuntos gubernamentales Otoño 2024

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Asuntos Federales:

Goverment Affairs Update - Fall

En mayo, la Cámara participó en el Día de la Pequeña Empresa en Beacon Hill, reuniéndose con varios miembros de la delegación de nuestra región sobre nuestras prioridades legislativas y las preocupaciones de las pequeñas empresas. En la foto, de izquierda a derecha: Representante Estatal Meg Kilcoyne; Representante Estatal Natalie Higgins; Presidente y CEO de la Cámara, Roy Nascimento; miembro de la Cámara y propietario de ECi Stores, Neil Abramson; y Representante Estatal Mike Kushmerek.

A medida que se acerca el otoño, la atención se centra en Washington D.C. ante las elecciones de noviembre. En la Cámara de Representantes de EE. UU., el congresista Jim McGovern y la congresista Lori Trahan se presentan sin oposición. Para el Senado, la senadora titular Elizabeth Warren se enfrentará a un retador republicano, que se determinará en las primarias republicanas a principios de septiembre. Monitorearemos de cerca las políticas de la administración presidencial ganadora para evaluar su posible impacto en la comunidad empresarial cuando asuman el cargo en enero.

Nos complace anunciar nuestro evento anual de Almuerzo del Congreso el jueves 17 de octubre a las 11:30 a.m. en el DoubleTree by Hilton en Leominster. Tanto el Congresista McGovern como la Congresista Trahan estarán presentes. Extendemos nuestra gratitud a nuestro patrocinador principal, Fitchburg State University, y al patrocinador de apoyo, Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc., por su generoso apoyo.

Asuntos de Estado

Presupuesto: Siguiendo la tradición, Beacon Hill acordó un presupuesto de $57.8 mil millones tras el inicio del nuevo año fiscal, y la gobernadora Healey lo firmó a finales de julio. Las anulaciones del veto de la gobernadora, por un monto de $317 millones, se mantuvieron vigentes al concluir las sesiones formales.

Desarrollo Económico Al momento de redactar este artículo, se espera que los legisladores regresen a Beacon Hill para abordar el proyecto de ley sobre bonos para el desarrollo económico que no se aprobó durante la sesión formal. La Cámara de Representantes y el Senado han presentado versiones separadas del proyecto de ley, las cuales, dependiendo de que se llegue a un acuerdo, incluirían autorizaciones de bonos y créditos fiscales por miles de millones de dólares, junto con la renovación de la iniciativa estatal de ciencias de la vida, cientos de millones en subvenciones de infraestructura pública de MassWorks, $99 millones para la manufactura avanzada y una posible reintroducción del programa «Happy Hour».

Educación El presupuesto sigue destinando $6.86 mil millones a la Ley de Oportunidades para los Estudiantes, lo que representa un aumento de 4% con respecto al año fiscal 24. Los fondos de «Fair Share» se utilizarán para que la educación en los colegios comunitarios sea gratuita para todos. Se siguen realizando inversiones en programas que ayudan a los estudiantes de secundaria a obtener credenciales reconocidas por la industria, así como en itinerarios educativos e iniciativas de acceso temprano a la universidad.

Vivienda: Se aprobó un proyecto de ley de bonos para vivienda con el fin de abordar la crisis de vivienda del Estado. El secretario Ed Augustus estima que esta legislación dará lugar a la creación de más de 45 000 nuevas unidades y a la conservación de 27 000 unidades de vivienda. El proyecto de ley de bonos, por un monto de $5.15 mil millones, ofrece nuevos créditos fiscales para las empresas que reconviertan edificios comerciales en desuso, duplica el crédito fiscal para la rehabilitación de edificios históricos y permite las unidades de vivienda accesorias de pleno derecho.

Equidad salarial: Una nueva legislación (H. 4890) exige que los empleadores con 25 o más empleados divulguen los rangos salariales en las ofertas de empleo y proporcionen información sobre los rangos salariales para promociones, transferencias y a solicitud. La Oficina del Fiscal General llevará a cabo una campaña de concienciación pública y tiene autoridad de cumplimiento, incluida la capacidad de imponer multas por violaciones.

Temporada de elecciones: Además de la elección presidencial, los cargos de Representante Estatal y Senador Estatal estarán en la boleta de noviembre, con varios miembros de la delegación regional enfrentando elecciones disputadas.

Te invitamos a nuestra Recepción Legislativa y de Candidatos, uno de nuestros eventos anuales más emocionantes. Brinda a los miembros de la comunidad la oportunidad de interactuar con funcionarios electos actuales y candidatos. El evento, respaldado por el patrocinador principal Mount Wachusett Community College y el patrocinador de apoyo Open Sky Community Services, se llevará a cabo en el Chocksett Inn en Sterling el jueves 26 de septiembre de 5:00 PM a 7:00 PM.

Preguntas de la Boleta: La Cámara está particularmente preocupada por las Preguntas de la Boleta 2 y 5:

  • La Pregunta 2 eliminaría el requisito estatal de graduación de secundaria para aprobar el examen estandarizado MCAS de décimo grado sin ofrecer un estándar alternativo uniforme. Creemos que esto podría rebajar los estándares educativos en un momento crítico.
  • La pregunta 5 propone eliminar el crédito por propinas. Nos preocupa mucho su posible impacto en los empleados que reciben propinas y en los restaurantes, que son motores clave de nuestra economía local. Actualmente, a todos los trabajadores de Massachusetts, incluidos los que reciben propinas, se les garantiza ganar al menos el salario mínimo $15. Una encuesta reciente reveló que el 86% de los empleados que reciben propinas prefiere el sistema actual, y una coalición de estos empleados ha respaldado el voto NO en esta pregunta.

Para preguntas o inquietudes sobre los esfuerzos de políticas públicas de la Cámara, comuníquese con Travis Condon, nuestro gerente de asuntos públicos, al 978.353.7600, ext. 224, o por correo electrónico a .

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Actualización de Turismo – Otoño 2024

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Al concluir el año fiscal que finaliza el 30 de junio de 2024, la Cámara se complace en compartir esta actualización de nuestro afiliado de turismo Visit North Central Massachusetts (VNCM). Este informe destaca nuestros esfuerzos de marketing, logros y planes futuros para promover nuestra región como un destino principal.

Marca y Publicidad

Nuestra estrategia publicitaria combinó medios impresos y digitales en mercados de destino, con mensajes como “Todo lo que amas de Nueva Inglaterra... mucho más cerca de casa” y “Conduce hacia, no a través de, el centro norte de Massachusetts” a través de varios canales, incluyendo:

  • Campañas de redes sociales pagadas a través de MassLive
  • Marketing en motores de búsqueda a través de Local IQ
  • Campañas de impresión y digitales en Boston Magazine
  • Campaña digital y de correo electrónico con AAA
  • Campaña de paquete digital con Yankee Publishing

Estos esfuerzos mostraron las diversas atracciones de nuestra región y aumentaron el tráfico web, con el objetivo de cautivar a posibles visitantes y fomentar la exploración del centro-norte de Massachusetts.

Guía de visitantes

También publicamos la edición Otoño/Invierno de la Guía del Centro-Norte de Massachusetts, una popular revista brillante a todo color, dirigida a informar e inspirar a los lectores. Presenta la región como un destino único para vivir, trabajar y visitar. Impresimos 40,000 copias por edición y las distribuimos en 350 ubicaciones de alto tráfico en toda Nueva Inglaterra a través de AAA y CTM Media Group. Una versión digital también se comparte en nuestro sitio web, redes sociales, por correo electrónico y se distribuye a la Oficina de Viajes y Turismo de Massachusetts (MOTT) para maximizar su alcance y participación.

FAM Trips & Travel Shows

We actively participated in Familiarization Trips & Travel Shows. We also continued our “Super Region” collaboration with two other Central Massachusetts Regional Tourism Councils (Discover Central MA and MetroWest Boston Visitors Bureau), implementing an off-season marketing campaign. We hosted two regional travel writer press trips in January and March to assist us with generating more interest in the region among the travel media and other travel influencers. We have several advertising campaigns underway and are working with CM Communications, a Boston-based PR Agency that specializes in destination marketing. Our participation in the Dream Destination Travel Show in October also further promoted our region as a desirable travel destination.

Social Media

We maintained a strong presence on social media throughout the year. From January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024, our Visit North Central Massachusetts Facebook page had a total reach of 500,291, a 21% decrease over the previous six months, but a 17% increase over the same timeframe the previous year. Our Facebook channel also attracted 4,068 new followers, an 11.66% increase over the previous six months. In addition, the page also had 7,400 content interactions and 12,600 link clicks during the same timeframe. Paid reach was 250,017 and 1,395,876 paid impressions. On Instagram, the page achieved a reach of 43,700, a 33.9% decrease over the previous six months, but a 250% increase over the same timeframe the previous year. We gained 419 new followers, had 2,300 content interactions and 1,200 link clicks during the same timeframe.

Website

Our tourism website, Visitnorthcentral.com, has experienced growth in traffic for FY24. Google Analytics indicates that our website experienced a 44.5% increase in pageviews; a 51.1% increase in sessions; and a 48.1% increase in unique users from January 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024, when compared to the same timeframe in 2023. During the same time period, we also had over 1,587,649 Google impressions. Additionally, we are actively aligning the content of Visit North Central’s seasonal landing pages with our SEO strategy to maintain consistency with our SEM campaign efforts.

Lodging & Other Data

STR data through June indicates that YTD hotel occupancy was 73.6%, a 2.6% increase over the previous year; ADR was $187.81, which is a 1.8% decrease; RevPar was $138.21, a 0.8% increase over the previous year; total room revenue was down 3.8%; and rooms sold was down 2.1%. AirDNA data indicates that short-term rentals in the region have continued to trend upwards, growing from 4.4% of total lodging revenue in the region in FY23 to 5.7% in FY24. Research from Datafy indicates that the region had 4,428,731 trips in FY24 and 8,346,506 visitor days. Average length of stay in the region was 1.9 days and our top four origin markets were Boston; Hartford/New Haven; New York; and Providence-New Bedford.

Boletín por correo electrónico

We launched a quarterly Visit North Central Massachusetts (VNCM) subscription-based email newsletter to help promote the region to visitors. Our VNCM email list already has 3,117 subscribers and has an average open rate of 46% and click-through rate of 9%.

Mirando hacia adelante

As we enter the Fall season, our focus remains on showcasing North Central Massachusetts as a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking authentic New England experiences. Our strategic approach includes:

  • Enhancing our digital marketing presence
  • Developing exciting seasonal itineraries
  • Targeting the Route 2 corridor with geofenced ads
  • Refreshing our website homepage for improved user experience
  • Continuing to highlight outdoor attractions and traditional New England experiences

We’re implementing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy, including paid search, social media advertising, targeted YouTube ads, and organic engagement. By combining these strategies, we aim to engage a broader audience and demonstrate the unique benefits of visiting North Central Massachusetts.

Te invitamos a unirte a nosotros en la promoción de las atracciones y experiencias únicas de nuestra región. ¡Mantente atento para más actualizaciones y oportunidades de participar!

North Central Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce near me | Travel | Tourism | Community Development | Historic New England | Quality of Life | Historic New England | Marketing

Massachusetts 250 Commemoration: Inventory of Revolutionary Artifacts and Exhibits

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El Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism is currently compiling a comprehensive inventory of museums and historical sites across the state as part of the Massachusetts 250 commemoration of the American Revolution.

We are reaching out to gather information about any artifacts, paintings, murals, or upcoming exhibits your museum possesses that highlight the Revolutionary War period. This information will be used to create a comprehensive list of historical assets, including your museum, which may potentially be incorporated into a digital map to enhance visitor experiences throughout the Massachusetts 250th anniversary celebration in 2025 and 2026.

By showcasing the breadth and depth of Massachusetts’ historical treasures, we aim to inspire visitors to explore the state’s rich revolutionary heritage. Your participation in this initiative is crucial to the success of the Massachusetts 250 commemoration.

We would greatly appreciate it if you could respond with a list of relevant artifacts, exhibits, or programs. To ensure maximum visibility during this anniversary, please consider uploading information about any Massachusetts 250-related events directly to their website.

Please feel free to contact Sheila Green at with any questions or to provide additional information.

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Líderes emergentes se gradúan del Instituto de Liderazgo Comunitario

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Nineteen of the area’s brightest, up-and-coming leaders were honored by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce for completing the Chamber’s annual Community Leadership Institute (CLI) program. The Class of 2024 were recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Meeting held on June 20 at Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg.

CLI is a nine-month program focused on providing local, high-potential professionals who are nominated for participation to enhance individual leadership skills, obtain a stronger understanding of the region, and grow deeper connections to business and community leaders.

“The Chamber developed CLI to inspire a new generation of community leaders to enthusiastically assume important roles in their communities while motivating participants from diverse backgrounds to be influential in our region’s future,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.

Mike Greenwood, Ph.D., professor of business at Fitchburg State University and chairperson of the CLI Steering Committee, was impressed by the caliber of this year’s class. “I am amazed with the dedication, creativity and motivation of our participants,” said Dr. Greenwood. “Programs like CLI are important to our community and help ensure a continuity of leadership, engagement and service as our region’s current leaders pass the baton to the next generation”

The program runs from October through June and includes an orientation and eight, day-long sessions on various topic areas, including Personal Leadership; Non-Profit Governance/Volunteerism; Media and Crisis Communications; Healthcare; Law and Justice; Arts and Culture; Legislation/Public Policy; Manufacturing; and Economic Development.

In addition, participants complete a community project with a goal of positively impacting the community while managing and executing the project before the end of the program year. This year’s class worked on five service projects to help teens, veterans, and immigrants.

One of the projects, “Tech for Teens,” consisted of a holiday gift drive for teens who are sometimes overlooked during holiday toy drives. The drive resulted in well over a hundred gifts to local teens, including computers, speakers, headphones, tablets, and hair tools. “Skillful Teens Building Strong Communities” was a three-part program hosted in collaboration with Mount Wachusett Community College. A group of teens received valuable training in life skills that are critical to future independence and success – including lessons on around-the-home maintenance, financial education and more.

A survey of the Class of 2024 revealed the program was a high value experience. When asked about their favorite part of the program, program participants indicated that site visits, community connections, leadership lessons, forming relationships with fellow classmates, learning more about the local community, and working on community projects were all highly valued components.

Graduates of the CLI Class of 2024 and their sponsors are as follows:

Jennifer Armentrout, Rollstone Bank & Trust
Maureen Babcock, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Lindsay Carpenter Connors, Fitchburg State University
Erin Carr, AIS, Inc.
Aimee Cotnoir, Fitchburg Art Museum
Sonia Demelo, Bemis Associates
Jessica DeRoy, City of Gardner
Joeci Gilchrest, You Name It Creatives
Taylor Healey, Foster-Healey Real Estate
Ralph Hogan, Mount Wachusett Community College
Bob Jumper, Leominster Credit Union
Autumn Kelly, Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School
Ethan Lin-Schwartz, Burkart-Phelan, Inc.
Kat McLellan, Fitchburg State University
Patrick O’Connell, Enterprise Bank and Trust Company
Rosa Rivera, Workers’ Credit Union/UMass Memorial
Nathalie Rivera-Castro, Workers’ Credit Union
Gissaury Rodriquez, IC Federal Credit Union
Shawn Tolf, Fidelity Bank

To learn more about the Community Leadership Institute, please visit www.northcentralmass.com/CLI or contact Maureen Babcock at 978.353.7600, ext. 222 or for more information.

Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts| Chamber of Commerce near me | Community Support | Community Leadership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits |Business Resources | Community Development | Personal Leadership

North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation approves financing for Butler Machine and Prototype in Gardner

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The North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), the economic development arm of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, recently approved $70,000 in financing to Butler Machine and Prototype, located at 400 Matthews Street in Gardner. The funding will support the purchase of various pieces of equipment, tooling and working capital while also creating one job with two additional jobs planned within the next year. NewVue Communities of Fitchburg assisted with the development of the company’s business plan.

Founded by David Butler, Butler Machine and Prototype is a custom machine shop for small lots and prototype design for machine shops. A graduate of Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical High School, Butler earned a two-year apprenticeship certificate and has worked at various machine shops gaining professional and leadership experience over the past 30 years. Most recently, he worked for a machine company prototyping and fixturing for medical devices.

“With over 30 years of experience as a Class A Machinist and more than 15 years of experience as a tool and die maker in metal stamping and cold metal framing, I am excited to bring my years of knowledge and experience to my customers,” said Butler. “With the collaboration of the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation and NewVue Communities, I am able to do what I love to do while achieving the dream of entrepreneurship.”

Como entidad de microcréditos, NCMDC puede otorgar préstamos a pequeñas empresas de hasta $250,000 para capital de trabajo, bienes inmuebles, equipo, inventario y expansión, además de colaborar con nuestros socios bancarios para proporcionar financiamiento puente para la etapa final de un proyecto.

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

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