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.
LEOMINSTER, MA – Leominster Credit Union held their annual Election of Board Officers for 2020-2021 at their April meeting.
Giulio G. Greco, Chairman of the Board. Greco has previously served as Chairman from 1994-1998 and again from 2008-2011. Greco was presented the Volunteer of the Year Award from the Cooperative Credit Union Association (CCUA) during the Awards of Excellence held at the 2019 Annual Convention. Greco has served on the Board since 1978.
Michael J. Sauvageau, Vice Chair. Sauvageau has been on the Board since 2007 and most recently held the position of Chairman from 2016-2020. Sauvageau serves on LCU’s Executive, Audit and Compensation Committees.
Nancy L. Graves, Treasurer. Graves serves on the Executive, Credit, Investment, and Advisory Committees. She has served on the LCU Board of Directors since 2004.
Joyce A. LaFleur, Assistant Treasurer. LaFleur serves on the Executive, Audit, Investment, and Advisory Committees. LaFleur has served on the Board since 2007.
Joseph V. Quintal, Clerk. Quintal serves on Executive, Audit, Compensation, Investment and Advisory Committees. Quintal has served on the Board since 2006.
Joining the officers on the 2020-2021 Board of Directors are, Amedeo E. Bilotta, Bruce J. Bollivar, Robert J. DelleChiaie, Joyce G. Leger, Henry C. Kulik, Jr., and Richard A. Sheppard.
Founded in 1954, Leominster Credit Union (LCU) is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative with a full range of deposit, lending and other financial services. Headquartered in Leominster, Massachusetts, LCU is proud to claim nearly 50,000 members and more than $700 million in assets. LCU has seven branch locations in Leominster, Clinton, Holden, North Leominster, Sterling and Worcester with ATM services at all branch locations. LCU also provides 24 hour banking via Mobile and Online services. Visit leominstercu.com or call 800-649-4646.
Front Row (L-R): Guilio G. Greco, Chairman of the Board; Michael J. Sauvageau, Vice Chairman. Back Row (L-R) Joyce A. LaFleur, Assistant Treasurer; Nancy L. Graves, Treasurer; Joseph V. Quintal, Clerk
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
Oxford, Massachusetts,26 de junio de 2020—bankHometown ha aprobado más de 700 préstamos del Programa de Protección de Nóminas (PPP) por un total aproximado de $68 millones, lo que ha permitido a cientos de empresas locales de la región central de Massachusetts y el noreste de Connecticut mantener a más de 7,500 empleados en nómina.
El programa ha ayudado a pequeñas empresas como Cleartech Group, cliente de bankHometown, una empresa de gestión y consultoría de TI con sede en Leominster que presta servicios a pequeñas y medianas empresas en todo el centro de Massachusetts.
(En la foto, de izquierda a derecha) El presidente y propietario de Cleartech Group, Tony Fields, junto con el presidente y CEO de bankHometown, Robert J. Morton, la vicepresidenta y oficial de préstamos comerciales, Christina DiRusso, y la vicepresidenta asistente y oficial de sucursal de la oficina de Leominster, Donna Daigle.
El presidente y propietario Tony Fields dijo que cuando comenzó el cierre en marzo, rápidamente dejó de lado el plan de crecimiento de su empresa y tomó algunas decisiones difíciles, como despedir a dos empleados, para garantizar que su empresa pudiera seguir apoyando a sus clientes. Dijo que el enfoque de Cleartech se centró en ayudar a los dueños de negocios a “abrazar la nueva normalidad” implementando la infraestructura y la seguridad adecuadas necesarias para que los empleados trabajen desde casa.
“Inicialmente, fue un shock para nosotros. Luego se convirtió rápidamente en un esfuerzo humanitario para conectar a nuestros clientes, de modo que pudieran operar de forma remota tanto como fuera posible y lo más rápido posible”, dijo Fields. “Gran parte de nuestro valor reside en trabajar con los clientes in situ, pero tuvimos que pasar a un entorno totalmente virtual nosotros mismos y luego poner en marcha a los clientes de forma remota con personal reducido. En cuestión de dos semanas, pasamos del modo de crecimiento al modo de supervivencia”.”
Fields dijo que la financiación de los PPP alivió un “increíble sentimiento de incertidumbre” para él y sus nueve empleados, y le permitió sentirse positivo no solo sobre la capacidad de su propia empresa para capear la tormenta, sino también sobre la supervivencia de las pequeñas empresas que su compañía apoya.
“Cuando salió el PPP, nos dio a todos la esperanza de que había una luz al final del túnel”, dijo. “Fue como si se hubiera construido un puente para que atravesáramos esto con confianza”.”
El Programa de Protección de Nóminas (PPP) de la Administración de Pequeñas Empresas (SBA) es un programa de estímulo para pequeñas empresas incluido en la Ley de Ayuda, Alivio y Seguridad Económica por el Coronavirus (CARES) del gobierno federal, por un monto de $2.2 billones. Inicialmente, el PPP proporcionó $349 mil millones para que las entidades crediticias de la SBA, como el banco Hometown, financiaran préstamos a las empresas por orden de llegada, con el fin de garantizar ocho semanas de nóminas y otros gastos para ayudar a las empresas a mantenerse a flote. Los fondos se agotaron en menos de dos semanas, pero el Congreso asignó una capacidad de financiamiento adicional de $320 mil millones. Para ser elegibles, las empresas deben tener 500 empleados o menos y demostrar que se han visto afectadas negativamente por el coronavirus. Si se utilizan para la nómina y otros gastos elegibles, los préstamos son condonables.
(En la foto, de izquierda a derecha) El Presidente y CEO de bankHometown, Robert J. Morton; la Directora Ejecutiva de Athol-Orange Community Television, Carol Courville; la Vicepresidenta y Oficial de Préstamos Comerciales de bankHometown, Christina DiRusso, y el Vicepresidente Adjunto y Oficial de Sucursal de la oficina de Athol, Marc Ostberg.
El programa también ayudó a Athol-Orange Community Television (AOTV), una estación pública sin fines de lucro con sede en Athol y cliente de bankHometown. La directora ejecutiva, Carol Courville, dijo que AOTV tuvo más suerte que la mayoría de las organizaciones sin fines de lucro al poder depender de los fondos de las suscripciones de cable, pero que ella y su junta directiva vieron rápidamente el potencial del efecto negativo a largo plazo de la pandemia en forma de cancelación de eventos de recaudación de fondos y otros patrocinios.
“Sabíamos que no íbamos a poder recaudar los fondos necesarios para continuar nuestra misión, y eso nos afectó mucho”, dijo Courville. “Supimos de inmediato que esto sería largo y que podríamos tener problemas presupuestarios que durarían hasta bien entrado el otoño y el resto del año”.”
Courville dijo que conseguir fondos del PPP fue un alivio inmenso, tanto mental como emocionalmente, para ella y sus empleados (uno a tiempo completo y tres a tiempo parcial), quienes pudieron entonces trabajar desde casa para crear la programación de la estación sin preocuparse por posibles despidos.
“Quitarle esa carga a los empleados les dio seguridad y eso fue oro puro”, dijo. “No tuvieron que preocuparse por recaudar fondos o perder sus trabajos mientras cambiaban por completo la forma en que brindábamos servicios y nos adaptábamos rápidamente a la nueva tecnología para producir reuniones gubernamentales y otros programas. Hubiera sido abrumador”.”
Los equipos de préstamos comerciales de bankHometown trabajaron incansablemente para presentar solicitudes en nombre de cientos de sus clientes de pequeñas empresas, como Cleartech y AOTV, sabiendo que para muchos propietarios de negocios, el tiempo era crítico.
“Estos son tiempos difíciles y entendemos la situación financiera que enfrentan nuestros clientes y el impacto negativo que puede tener en sus negocios, el personal y la comunidad”, dijo el presidente y director ejecutivo de bankHometown, Robert J. Morton. “Nos movimos rápidamente para poner estos fondos en manos de nuestros clientes para que pudieran cumplir con todas sus obligaciones. Como banco comunitario, esto es lo que hacemos y estoy orgulloso de nuestra capacidad para ayudar a las organizaciones locales’, afirmó.
A pesar de los informes nacionales que indican que algunos fondos del PPP se destinaron a empresas más grandes, aproximadamente el 60 por ciento de los préstamos del PPP tramitados por el banco Hometown fueron por un monto inferior a $50,000 y más del 90 por ciento fueron por un monto inferior a $250,000, lo que indica que, a nivel local, el programa ha beneficiado a las pequeñas empresas para las que fue diseñado.
Courville atribuye al Vicepresidente y Oficial de Préstamos Comerciales de bankHometown, Christina DiRusso, así como al Vicepresidente Asistente y Oficial de Sucursal de la oficina de Athol del banco, Marc Ostberg, el haber ayudado a AOTV a conseguir su salvavidas económico rápidamente en la primera ronda del PPP, cuando colegas de otros pequeños negocios tenían problemas para obtener una respuesta de bancos más grandes.
“Christina me devolvió la llamada el primer día y me lo hizo fácil. Me guió a través de todo el proceso de solicitud, que en realidad fue diseñado para empresas y no para organizaciones sin fines de lucro —recuerda Courville—. Por eso fue tan importante trabajar con un banco local como bankHometown. Hizo una gran diferencia saber que podías hablar con alguien. Ellos lo hicieron posible.”
“No podríamos haber seguido a flote si se nos hubiera acabado el dinero”, añadió. “Así que solo quiero agradecer a bankHometown”.”
Fields dijo que no se dio cuenta de lo inusual que era su sólida relación comercial con DiRusso de bankHometown y con la vicepresidenta adjunta y directora de sucursal de la oficina de Leominster, Donna Daigle, hasta que escuchó a sus colegas en un foro global de emprendedores expresar su frustración al conseguir que sus bancos los ayudaran con su solicitud de PPP o incluso les devolvieran las llamadas.
“Con el PPP, siempre estuve informado y sabía cuál era mi situación, así que asumí que así era como se hacían las cosas, esa era la norma”, dijo. “Pero mis compañeros emprendedores estaban batallando con el proceso y experimentaron al menos dos semanas de ansiedad innecesaria que yo nunca sentí. Fue entonces cuando me di cuenta de lo especial que fue mi relación con bankHometown”.”
Fields dijo que fue aprobado y tuvo los fondos en mano rápidamente, mientras que más de la mitad de los emprendedores con los que conecta todavía luchaban por aplicar, demostrando que una relación bancaria local es clave para sostener los pequeños negocios.
“Te respaldan y son parte de tu negocio. Son un defensor que trabaja para ti”, dijo. “Ahora más que nunca, soy un entusiasta de bankHometown”.”
Sobre bankHometown
Fundado en 1889, bankHometown tiene su sede en Oxford, Massachusetts, y cuenta con $1.0 mil millones en activos y 15 sucursales ubicadas en todo el centro de Massachusetts y el noreste de Connecticut. A través de su programa de patrocinio y donaciones caritativas, bankHometown y la Fundación Comunitaria Hometown Bank apoyan a organizaciones sin fines de lucro y causas en los condados de Worcester y Windham. En 2019, el banco y la fundación donaron más de $328,000 a casi 270 organizaciones. En los últimos cuatro años, el programa ha donado más de $1.1 millones. Para obtener más información, visite bankhometown.com.
Effort will mobilize sewing-enthusiast “Rosies” and corporate partners to join AIS in creating and sponsoring donations of high quality, reusable face masks
(Leominster, MA) – May 28, 2020 – AIS has partnered with the United Way of North Central Massachusetts as it continues its philanthropic initiative, Sew the Masks. The program’s goal to create and donate up to 1,000,000 high quality, washable and reusable face masks for first responders and others at high risk of infection during the COVID-19 pandemic remains.
The Sew the Masks campaign is mobilizing AIS sewing professionals as well as private, individual sewing enthusiasts – known as “Rosies” – to create high-quality masks from AIS-sourced materials and donate them to healthcare providers, first responders, essential workers and others at risk in the fight against COVID-19.
“No healthcare worker, first responder or other front-line employee should be worried about access to personal protective equipment such as masks. Yet we continue to see mask shortages among the people most at risk of infection,” said Bruce Platzman, CEO of AIS. “We strongly believe that high quality, comfortable, washable and reusable masks can make a big impact. And we are actively recruiting sewing enthusiasts across the country – along with corporate partners—to join this effort. Collaborate with AIS and the United Way and let’s collectively donate one million facemasks to those most in need.”
The Sew the Mask program has four simple steps:
Volunteer sewing enthusiasts – “The Rosies” – request a kit to sew 50 masks at www.sewthemasks.com. These kits ship directly from AIS with easy-to-follow instructions, precut materials and return packaging.
Completed masks are returned in the provided packaging to AIS within 25-30 days.
AIS performs a quality check on every completed mask, and then ships boxes of masks to corporate sponsors and partners for distribution and donation within their own communities.
For every 10 facemasks a corporate sponsor donates, AIS will ensure a mask is donated to the United Way—providing this essential PPE for workers within their nationwide charitable network.
“We are proud to partner with AIS to provide these high-quality masks to those most in need. We think this initiative is an effective and creative way to rally the public, to create opportunities for volunteers to support their local community from the safety of their own homes, and for local businesses to engage in a meaningful effort to promote public safety during this unprecedented crises,” Kory Eng, President and CEO of the United Way of North Central Massachusetts shared.
AIS also allocated a production line of its employees in early April on the manufacturing floor to make these masks, featuring antimicrobial covers that repel moisture and a non-treated, comfortable inner layer filter of polypropylene. AIS masks are already helping protect healthcare workers at UMass Medical Center and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, as well as first responders around Massachusetts and others.
“Our company has donated thousands of these masks already to hospitals and first responders across Massachusetts. But the need is so great, we could never do alone what we can do with others. We are pleased to partner with the United Way of North Central Massachusetts, joining together as part of coordinated effort,” said Platzman. “We think there are many potential ‘Rosies’ out there ready to donate their skills and time to ensure high-quality PPE is there when these essential players need it. And we’re seeing many caring corporate citizens in New England and around the country wanting to partner with us to sponsor the effort to coordinate mask donations in their communities and across the United Way’s vast network.”
One of the illustrations featured in the original Rosie campaign artwork is a representation of a real life “Rosie”, MJ, who works at AIS as in shipping. She has a deep compassion to help those around her. AIS was inspired by her effervescent energy, self-less dedication to others, and roll up your sleeves attitude as a role model for the program. Illustrations created by Lindsey Platzman.
For more information, to become a “Rosie” or to learn about corporate partnerships and sponsorship of mask creation and donations, visit www.sewthemasks.com.
ABOUT AIS
AIS, headquartered in Leominster, Massachusetts, is a leading manufacturer of commercial office furniture and boasts one of the most impressive stories of growth and success in the furniture industry. Founded in 1989, the company is known for offering market-relevant, feature-rich product lines that entice designers and support the diverse needs of end-users while offering exceptional value. AIS is an innovator that leads the industry in
sustainable, lean manufacturing, lead-time performance and manufacturing flexibility. AIS has permanent showrooms at its Leominster headquarters and also in Chicago, New York City and Washington, D.C. With locations across the U.S., AIS has more than 800 employees and over 1 million square feet of office, showroom and factory space. Sales for 2019 were $225 million. For more information, visit www.ais-inc.com.
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—Visita el centro-norte de 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
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate organizations, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation and Visit North Central Massachusetts, have announced the formation of a special taskforce comprised of a cross section of business and community leaders from throughout the region.This group of prominent leaders is charged with working collaboratively to provide direction, definition and clarity to the development of the Chamber’s new regional economic development and recovery plan.
The taskforce members include:
Trevor Beauregard, Director of the City of Gardner’s Community Development & Planning Office;
Winn Brown, President & CEO of Heywood Hospital
Martin F Connors Jr., President & CEO of Rollstone Bank & Trust;
Jeff Crowley, President of Wachusett Mountain Ski Area;
Paul DiGeronimo, President of Geronimo Properties;
John DiNapoli, Municipal & Community Services Manager of Unitil;
Matthew Fournier, President of Elite Construction & Design, Inc.
Sheila Harrity, Superintendent of Montachusett Regional Voc-Tech High School;
Dr. Richard Lapidus, President of Fitchburg State University;
Rachel Lopez, President of Resource Management, Inc.;
Barbara Mahoney, Executive Vice President & COO of Leominster Credit Union;
Donata J Martin, Executive Director of the Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg & Leominster;
Raymond J Martino, President & CEO of Simonds International;
Christopher W McCarthy, President & COO of Fidelity Bank
Cheryl Molebash, General Manager of Dixie Consumer Products, LLC;
Stephen J Mullaney P.E., President of S. J. Mullaney Engineering, Inc.;
Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber;
Nikki Peters, Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Leominster;
Douglas Petersen, President & CEO of Workers Credit Union;
Bruce Platzman, President & CEO of AIS, Inc.;
Angela Rackley, Director of the Shriver Job Corps Center;
Laura Reynolds, President of FHC Industrial Supply;
Steve Roach, Interim President of UMass Memorial HealthAlliance – Clinton Hospital, Inc.;
Steven Rocheleau, President of Rocheleau Tool & Die Co., Inc.;
Al Rose, Owner of Red Apple Farm;
Eric Shapiro, President of The Lexvest Group;
Thomas Skwierawski, Executive Director of the City of Fitchburg’s Community Development Office;
Henry Tessman, General Manager of Great Wolf Lodge;
Dr. James Vander Hooven, President of Mount Wachusett Community College
The taskforce will work with consulting firm RKG Associates to develop a multi-faceted and implementable plan to guide the Chamber’s regional economic development and recovery efforts.RKG Associates is a national economic development firm that has been retained by the Chamber to assist with this project.In the 1990s, the Chamber led a similar community and business-based planning effort, following the recession and the downsizing of several large employers in the region, that proved effective in driving economic development efforts over a twenty-year period and led to the creation of many of the region’s assets.
The development of this comprehensive regional plan is part of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber’s continuing efforts to help promote the region and advance the economy of North Central Massachusetts. For more information on the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its affiliate organizations, please visit NorthCentralMass.com or contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600.
How We Respond to COVID-19 Today Will Define How We Shape Tomorrow by Lauren Howe
Lauren Howe, Principal and Owner of empHowered PR
In February, I left my job in corporate America and executed a business plan years in the making to open my own public relations firm. I launched the business, empHowered PR, LLC, in Fitchburg the week of March 24—the same week we all quickly realized how life was going to change. Schools were shut down, businesses were on the brink of closure, and the safety and health of our community was—and still is—top-of-mind.
The past few months have prompted business owners to re-think about how they will do business in the time of COVID-19. And as we enter into a new phase of the pandemic, businesses are beginning to reopen in line with government guidelines to ensure the safety of employees and those they serve.
Throughout this crisis, I counseled my clients through their most difficult challenges. The truth is that some found ways to endure, others took a pause and, sadly, others chose to close their business for good. As a crisis communications professional, it is my job to find the right words to respond to a question or concern from a client’s employee, customer, or reporter. But, it’s also an opportunity to serve as a confidant and be the person your client can trust and lean on during those challenging times.
Here are some of the takeaways I learned while working through the pandemic, not only as a communications professional, but also as a small business owner:
Be kind. We are all struggling during this time, some of us more than others. We need to understand that each person handles stress differently. Learn how your employees, clients and colleagues manage their mental health and adjust your approach in how you work with and respond to them. Acknowledging and validating your employees’ fears and anxiety will forge a stronger connection to your people. Remember, they may need you more than ever right now.
Information fatigue is real. Allow yourself to unplug from social media and watching the news while also being aware that your employees and other stakeholders are also being inundated with information. Listen to your stakeholders on when they want to hear from you and what they want to know. Honest, candid, and empathetic messaging will go a long way when sharing information about how your business is responding to the pandemic.
Make the powerless powerful. Many businesses are thinking—and working—outside the box to rethink how to utilize their people, products, and services. Businesses have adjusted their trade and are now making face masks, while others are now learning how to make hand sanitizer. Additionally, others are offering knowledge and expertise in their field to non-profits and small businesses at little or no cost. We may feel powerless against the pandemic, but we can be powerful in how our business responds to it by helping others.
Learn from the process. We all adapted as best as we could with every challenge that has come our way, both at home and at work. As we slowly move toward the “new normal,” it is important to document our experiences and apply the lessons learned to future business continuity plans.
Massachusetts is beginning to re-open under a slow, phased approach, which means we will once again need to be flexible in our business plans and strategy to effectively respond to the regulations. As the pandemic continues to impact our lives and our livelihood, it is by rising above the challenges that we will be a stronger business community now and in the future.
Lauren Howe is Principal and Owner of empHowered PR, a boutique public relations firm located in Fitchburg focusing on brand strategy, crisis management and response, and corporate social responsibility.
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
The Resiliency “Test”: Will Your Business Survive the Pandemic?
by Tony Fields
Tony Fields, President & Owner of Cleartech Group
Innovative IT solutions hold the answer to capitalizing on the new virtual business landscape.
Companies that, months ago, had booming brick and mortar locations, serving thousands, if not millions, of customers every week, have now become almost invisible. Fortune 500 companies that once were the staples and backbones of our economy are on the brink of closing forever. To say that the COVID-19 pandemic has dramatically changed how we live and work is an understatement. And, as many small, medium, and large businesses alike scramble for online space and for online customers in this new virtual environment, a key factor that will determinewhich businesses thrive during this economic downturn will simply be… technology.
From cloud services, to IT support, to innovative ways of using video conferencing to connect with employees and customers, technology will be essential to growing any (and every) business within this new reality.
That’s why what you do now – investing in technology – will be very important to effectively insulate your business from the extreme uncertainty of the times. Here are three critical ways you should be leveraging technology now to ensure that your business remains resilient and strategically positioned to thrive.
Connect Your Apps to a Team Collaboration Platform. It’s common for companies to be using different types of cloud software in different areas of their operations. The accounting department may use an online accounting program, while the customer support team uses a cloud-based CRM program.When everyone is separated, not only does this slow down your responsiveness internally, but it also can impact your external customer support. A recent survey of companies has shown that now 40% of businesses are struggling to engage what they called “stranded employees.” By using an integrated communication platform such as Microsoft Teams or Slack, you can better support and connect with all of your now virtual employees. In addition, this infrastructure enables you to meet the new level of responsiveness that your customers have now come to expect.
Get Dedicated IT Maintenance in Place. With every business rushing to implement virtual options for both employees and customers, expect there to be a dramatic rise in security breaches and network failures. That’s why having a dedicated and reputable IT support team or vendor is critical to how well you can safely expand your business’ technological capabilities. Studies have shown that each unmanaged computer costs businesses, on average, approximately $5,000 a year. And, security breaches become more common when devices aren’t being kept up to date with security patches and continuous threat monitoring.When employees are no longer working in a single office, they may be lacking some of the IT support you had in place. That lack of help when they need it can be a drain on productivity. If your team of 30 employees struggles with IT issues for just 25 minutes a day each while working from home and your average salary is $20 per hour, that would be a productivity loss of $1,250 every week.
Integrate New Technology to Lower Costs. As working capital becomes strained for most companies, switching to more efficient technologies that enable remote employees to get more done for less is highly recommended. Take VoIP for example. By transitioning to a cloud phone system, companies can lower their phone costs alone by 50-75%. Other exciting new technologies to consider implementing include the Windows Virtual Desktop which gives employees complete remote access to the same systems and databases they would normally use in the office. This can assist in decreasing operating costs by not having to buy additional software licenses for your new virtual workforce.
If your company would benefit from having a complimentary consultation to make the virtual transition as seamless as possible, feel free to contact Cleartech Group’s award-winning IT infrastructure experts at 978-466-1938 or reach out online.
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
