Noticias y Eventos
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Gift Local Gift Card Program
Be a part of something great! Join the ranks of the more than fifty restaurants, shops, attractions and other businesses that are currently a part of the Gift Local gift card program. Participating in this community-focused promotional opportunity is a great way to engage new customers and promote your business.
- Accepting Gift Local gift cards is hassle-free – no new terminals or software are required.
- Unlike coupons, deal sites and discount cards, you are not asked to provide a discount in exchange for customers. Instead, the Gift Local gift cards drive full-priced customers to your business.
- Gift Local gift cards do not compete with your own existing gift card or gift certificate program. Instead, Gift Local gift cards help to engage new customers that you can convert into returning customers.
- There are no upfront costs for members to participate in the program and accept Gift Local gift cards.
- Your business also benefits by being listed on GiftLocal.net and from the ongoing advertising and promotions conducted to encourage the sale of the cards.
Are you a Chamber member and would like to participate in this program? For more information or to sign up, please contact Bea Lee at the Chamber at 978.353.7600 ext. 228.
To purchase a gift local card visit www.GiftLocal.net
When it matters most…Support Local!
Advocacy in Action
One of the most valuable and often overlooked functions of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber is its role as the region’s most powerful champion for the business community. The Chamber is uniquely positioned at the crossroads that connect businesses of all sizes and industries, non-profits, and local and state government to tackle the tough issues and get things done. Whether it is setting legislative goals, updating members, engaging elected officials or keeping people informed through its events, the Chamber is on the front lines, focused on promoting what is best for local businesses and that will help the region prosper.
A delegation of Chamber staff and members meet at the State House with Senator Harriett Chandler’s General Counsel to discuss a legislative issue.
“We speak loudest when we speak with one voice. We do this through the strong network of business and community leaders that come together through the Chamber to advocate for their businesses and the advancement of the region,” said Stephen Mullaney, President of SJ Mullaney Engineering and a Past Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “As the largest and most effective business organization in North Central Massachusetts, the Chamber is a powerful influence for positive change. No other organization has the ability to pull together influential leaders and community stakeholders like the Chamber.”
The Chamber has built strong relationships with elected officials throughout the region to effectively represent members and their interests. “Our only agenda is to effectively serve our members and to advance North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of Chamber. “I am proud that we are able to work closely with our elected officials – regardless of their party affiliation or office – to advocate for the region and a positive business climate.”
“Without a doubt, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber is the most influential and effective business organization in the region,” said Bruce Platzman, CEO of AIS, Inc. in Leominster. “If there is a critical issue that affects local businesses, the Chamber is there working to convene key decision makers to ensure that their voice is heard and that their concerns are addressed.”
One of the Chamber’s most notable successes this past year was improving the commercial and industrial tax burden in Fitchburg and Clinton. Both communities have struggled in the past with an excessive tax rate for businesses that has hampered economic growth.
As part of its advocacy efforts, the Chamber also provides numerous opportunities throughout the year for members to come together at
Christopher McDermott, the Chamber’s Public Affairs Manager testifies at the State House on education reform.
various events, forums and meetings. The goal with these programs is to make sure that members are informed and that they have a voice in decisions that impact the communities of North Central Massachusetts. Even if members can’t find the time to participate in these programs, they can take comfort in knowing the Chamber is working diligently on behalf of their business. It is one of the few Chambers in the state with a registered lobbyist- Christopher McDermott- on its professional staff. On occasion, the Chamber will also hire outside experts or partner with other trade associations to get more done for members. The Chamber also maintains a member-led Government Affairs Committee, which plays an important role in guiding its advocacy efforts. This non-partisan committee is comprised of members from diverse industries and is responsible for reviewing pending issues for their impact, developing positions and advising the staff on programs that inform and encourage member involvement in its government affairs initiatives.
“As a member of the Chamber’s government affairs committee, I have seen first-hand how this Chamber is an influential voice for North Central Massachusetts,” said Lea Ann Scales, Vice President of Enrollment and Public Affairs at Mount Wachusett Community College. “They provide genuine leadership to influence the issues that impact our region.”
Congresswoman Lori Trahan meets with members of the Chamber’s Leadership Council to discuss federal priorities.
This fall, the Chamber’s events calendar will put the Chamber’s proactive advocacy efforts on full display. September’s Legislative andCandidates Reception will bring the region’s elected officials, business leaders, and office seekers together in one place to connect over drinks and hors d’oeuvres. One of the region’s most anticipated events, the reception attracts over 150 business and community leaders. In October, the Chamber’s Congressional Luncheon, featuring the newly appointed Chair of the House Rules Committee – Congressman Jim McGovern – and the newly elected U.S. Representative for the state’s Third CongressionalDistrict – Congresswoman Lori Trahan. These annual events will be complimented by theChamber’s Good Morning North Central breakfast series. Our September breakfast featured House Speaker Robert DeLeo followed in November by Governor Charlie Baker. These events all represent a unique opportunity to directly engage with policy leaders who impact businesses on a daily basis.
As a member, you have all of the Chamber’s resources and connections at your fingertips, and we encourage you to take advantage of that benefit and stay connected. If you have an issue or policy concern that you believe the Chamber should be aware of, please reach out to Christopher McDermott at 978.353.7600 ext. 224 or email him at . ◊
North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to Host Legislative and Candidates Reception
Premier networking event connects elected officials with community leaders
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce will host its Legislative and Candidates Reception on September 19, 2019 from 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Chocksett Inn on 59 Laurelwood Road in Sterling, MA. The event is intended to offer the region with an upscale networking event that connects business and community leaders with the region’s elected officials, as well as those seeking public office.
“This is a great opportunity for our business and community leaders, as well as our public officials to gather for an evening of networking and collegial discussion,” said Roy Nascimento, President and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “We look forward to joining our legislators at a unique venue like the Chocksett Inn.”
The Legislative and Candidates Reception is one of the Chamber’s premier events of the season, with over 125 federal, state, and local elected officials invited. Mount Wachusett Community College is the premier sponsor for the event. “At Mount Wachusett Community College, we understand the importance of engaging with the region’s business and legislative communities. These connections and insights help guide the college in various areas such as programming and outreach,” said MWCC President James Vander Hooven. “It is vital for our region’s business leaders, legislators, and policy-makers to meet and network so that they can engage and learn from each other. I am happy to support this important event.”
“Gaining access to legislators and those who seek public office is just as important for small business owners as it is for CEOs in the region,” said Ken Gurge, Esq., Chamber Board Member and Chair of the Government Affairs Committee. “This will be a tremendous opportunity for anyone with passion for North Central Massachusetts.”
Government affairs and public policy advocacy is a key component to the Chamber’s efforts to promote a healthy and active business climate throughout the region. Recognizing that the business community and legislators are partners in economic vitality and growth, events like these align well with the Chamber’s mission.
The event will feature an open bar and gourmet appetizers and hors d’oeuvres. Cost for members is $35 and non-members is $45. Registration is available by clicking here.
As of September 5ta, the following legislators have confirmed their attendance:
Confirmed legislators:
Senator Dean Tran, Worcester and Middlesex District
Senator Anne Gobi, Worcester, Hamden, Hampshire and Middlesex District
Representative Kim Ferguson, 1st Worcester District
Representative Stephan Hay, 3rd Worcester District
Representative Natalie Higgins, 4ta Worcester District
Representative Jon Zlotnik, 2nd Worcester District
District Attorney Joseph D. Early, Worcester County
Sheriff Lewis Evangelidis, Worcester County
Mayor DiNatale, City of Fitchburg
Mayor Dean Mazzarella, City of Leominster
Mayor Mark Hawke, City of Gardner
Councilor Thomas E. Donnelly, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Marisa Fleming, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Amy Green, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Michael Kushmerek, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Samantha Squalia, City of Fitchburg
Councilor Thomas Ardinger, City of Leominster
Councilor Pauline Cormier, City of Leominster
Councilor David Cormier, City of Leominster
Councilor Claire Freda, City of Leominster
Councilor Gail Feckley, City of Leominster
Selectwoman Rosemarie Meissner, Town of Ashburnham
Tow Administrator Orlando Pacheco, Town of Lancaster
Selectman Robert Ebersole, Town of Lunenburg
Selectwoman Maureen Cranson, Town of Sterling
Selectwoman Arden Sonnenberg, Town of Sterling
Town Administrator Ross Perry, Town of Sterling
Selectman Wayne Walker, Town of Westminster
Selectman James DesLisle, Town of Westminster
DEAL, MCDERMOTT OF North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Complete first year of INSTITUTE FOR ORGANIZATION MANAGEMENT
A Leadership Training Program Produced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Kat Deal and Christopher McDermott both recently completed their first year of the Institute for Organization Management, a four year nonprofit leadership training program at Villanova University in Villanova, Pennsylvania.
Deal, who started working at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce in 2018 as the Events & Programs Manager, and McDermott, who started one year prior as the Public Affairs Manager, both serve the chamber community in pivotal roles.
“”IOM was a great opportunity to learn about what goes into managing a Chamber or association and expand beyond my current role,” said Christopher McDermott. “The network I gained this past July will undoubtedly prove invaluable as I build my career.”
“Institute graduates are recognized across the country as leaders in their industries and organizations,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber Foundation’s vice president of Institute for Organization Management. “These individuals have the knowledge, skills, and dedication necessary to achieve professional and organizational success in the dynamic association and chamber industries.”
Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has been educating tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members and become strong business advocates. Institute’s curriculum consists of four weeklong sessions at five different university locations throughout the country. Through a combination of required courses and electives in areas such as leadership, advocacy, marketing, finance, and membership, Institute participants are able to enhance their own organizational management skills and add new fuel to their organizations, making them run more efficiently and effectively.
Mount Wachusett Community College will host the 10th Anniversary New England Workforce Network Conference
October 11, 2019 at Mount Wachusett Community College in Gardner MA from 8am-3:30pm
El New England Workforce Network (NEWN) Conference is a collaborative effort with workforce professionals from all over New England. This year’s theme is Twistin’ and Turnin’: Riding the Roller Coaster of Workforce Development, reflecting the tremendous synergistic value of planning and acting in concert with the various stakeholders in workforce areas. NEWN was conceived in 2001 in response to the desire among workforce development providers to share best practices and network in a larger context that goes beyond state boundaries. Since 2002, NEWN has held a number of day-long conferences that focus on a range of topics that resonate among professionals who are involved in workforce development within community colleges, workforce development boards, economic development agencies and other settings. We hope that you will be able to join us for our exciting 10th NEWN Conference.
This year’s Keynote Speaker is Jane Oates, President, WorkingNation.
Jane is on the Executive Committee of WorkingNation, a non-profit organization that works through film and live events to tell the stories of successful training programs. An education and policy expert, Jane became a national leader in education and workforce programs during her ten years with Senator Edward M. Kennedy on the US Senate’s Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee (HELP). She oversaw the Workforce Investment Act and the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Program while serving as the Assistant Secretary for Employment and Training under Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis during the Obama administration.
For more information: mwcc.edu/newn2019
To Register: http://mwcc.3dcartstores.com/NEWN-Conference-2019_p_1653.html
Oktoberfest “Party in the Street” 2019 at the Gardner Ale House
Gardner’s own Moon Hill Brewing Co. at the Gardner Ale House, along with the City of Gardner, present their 14th Annual Oktoberfest “Party in the Street”. Admission for this event is free and open to all ages. Parker Street will be closed to traffic.
According to Gardner Ale House and Moon Hill Brewing Co. owner Rick Walton, “Each year we keep shooting for the stars, which means we aim to make it twice as big as the previous year. Last year we accomplished just that and had our biggest party ever. The weather helps! This years major attraction, in addition to the luge is our Totally Local line up of musical acts.
This year’s musical lineup begins at 3:30 PM, just after the Chair Luge with:
3:30 PM Safehill Taking it back to the decade they were born in, these guys are solid 90s Rock.
5:15 PM The Green Sisters A Bluegrass/Newgrass quartet from Worcester County. The four local sisters sing tight harmonies while switching instruments from upright bass to fiddle to acoustic guitar to banjo. They deliver authentic Kentucky Soul while being totally original.
7:00 PM Electric Green Co. A local groove based Blues, Rock, Jazz fusion Funk band.
8:45 PM The Sufferin’ Bastards Local classic Rock band playing all your classics and favorites.
Oktoberfest “Party in the Street” is located at the Gardner Ale House, 74 Parker St., Downtown Gardner, MA. Admission: Free, Open to All Ages
Event: Saturday, September 28, starts at 11:00 AM. Live Music is 3:30 – 10:00 PM.
For more information visit gardnerale.com or call (978) 669-0122.
EINSTEIN’S COLOSSAL CORN-UNDRUM AT DAVIS MEGA MAZE
Davis Mega Maze is the largest of over 50 fun attractions at Davis Mega Farm Festival. Co-owner Larry Davis Says, “This year’s 8-acre maze will challenge your mind, body and imagination.” But don’t worry, according to Einstein, “The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge but imagination.”
Davis Mega Farm Festival opens September 14th and features… – Award-winning, Kansas City BBQ and “foodie” foods, – Craft beer, wine, seltzers, and adult slushies, – Live music, and – 50+ fun attractions, from the Zip Zone Zip Line, to Cannon Blasters, and much more.
Info at DavisMegaFarmFestival.com
