E-Newsletter
An Electronic Publication of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Inside this edition, you’ll discover the latest Chamber initiatives and success stories from across our region. From economic development projects and upcoming networking events to policy updates and workforce training opportunities, we’re keeping you connected to what matters most for your business and North Central Massachusetts.
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is here to help – with trusted resources, a strong business network, and a support system to keep your business and the region moving forward
Throughout the year, we celebrate the businesses and individuals who make North Central Massachusetts a thriving place to live, work, and grow. The Good Morning North Central Recognition Program puts a spotlight on the remarkable achievements and lasting contributions of our Chamber members.
The mission of the Good Morning North Central Recognition Program is to highlight and celebrate Chamber members who make significant contributions to our region. While the Good Morning North Central Breakfast series focuses on learning and networking, the recognition program specifically honors individuals, civic entities, projects, businesses and organizations that are Chamber members for their major contributions to economic growth, improvement of the quality of life in the region, major milestones and other activities that enhance North Central Massachusetts. The goal is to showcase during the breakfast program the full spectrum of our members’ achievements and their positive impact on our communities.
Business Milestone Recognition
Celebrating Chamber member businesses reaching major milestones in 25-year increments: 25, 50, 75, and 100+ years of service to North Central Massachusetts.
Leadership Transitions
Honoring new executive leadership that brings fresh vision and energy to our region, including new Presidents, CEOs, or Executive Directors of major regional employers (25+ employees) and new leadership of educational institutions and significant community organizations.
Major Business Development
Recognizing substantial investments that strengthen our regional economy through significant new business openings with major regional impact, major facility expansions or developments, and substantial workforce growth initiatives.
Individual Achievement & Major Recognition
Celebrating exceptional accomplishments that bring positive recognition to North Central Massachusetts, including major industry awards from recognized organizations, significant civic honors and community leadership, and breakthrough innovations with substantial regional impact.
Community Enhancement
Highlighting projects and initiatives that improve our region through major construction and infrastructure improvements, economic development initiatives, and programs that enhance quality of life in North Central Massachusetts.
Who Can Nominate: Anyone can submit nominations, including self-nominations from Chamber members
Nomination Process: Complete our online nomination form with details about the achievement, milestone, or contribution
Review Process: A committee reviews all nominations based on established criteria, regional impact, and program goals
Recognition Events: Selected honorees are invited to attend a Good Morning North Central Breakfast as guests of the Chamber to accept their recognition
Ready to Nominate?
Know a Chamber member who deserves recognition? We want to hear about their achievements and contributions to North Central Massachusetts.
Nominate NowQuestions about the program? Contact us at or call 978.353.7600 ext. 235.
Q: Can I nominate myself?
A: Yes! Self-nominations are welcome and encouraged.
Q: Would a new small business opening or expansion qualify for recognition?
A: New business openings and expansions are wonderful milestones that we love to celebrate! However, a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony would be the more appropriate option for these occasions. The Chamber offers this FREE service to current and new members who have opened their business in the last 12 months, moved to a new location, changed ownership, or been remodeled/expanded. Ribbon cuttings are specifically designed to help you kick-off your grand opening, meet key community leaders, and get acquainted with your neighbors and fellow Chamber members. We also have other channels to help promote your business through our website, social media, and member communications. For more information about scheduling a ribbon cutting, contact us at or 978.353.7600.
Q: Can businesses nominate their employees for recognition?
A: Yes! While Leadership Transitions recognition is reserved for top organizational leaders only, all employees of Chamber member businesses are eligible for our other recognition categories. The key requirement is that their achievement must be exceptional and bring significant positive recognition to both North Central Massachusetts and their employer. Examples of qualifying achievements include receiving major national awards, developing breakthrough patents, or earning prestigious industry recognition that elevates our region’s reputation. Personal milestones like new degrees, professional certifications, or internal promotions are wonderful accomplishments that we’d be happy to celebrate through our social media, member newsletters, and other promotional channels, but they don’t meet the criteria for breakfast recognition.
Q: I am a senior-level official at my company and was recently promoted. Would I qualify for Leadership Transitions recognition?
A: Congratulations on your promotion! While the Leadership Transitions category is specifically limited to top leaders (Presidents, CEOs, Executive Directors), we have other great ways to recognize your career advancement. We’d love to feature your promotion in our member news, social media channels, or through other promotional opportunities. Your achievement is definitely worth celebrating, and we’ll help you find the right channel to do so!
Q: Will honorees need to give a speech?
A: No speech is required. They simply need to be present to accept their recognition. We will take pictures during and after the program to share on our channels, and we may ask for a quote from the honoree to help share their story, but there’s no pressure to speak publicly. The focus is on celebrating your achievement, not putting you on the spot!
Q: Who attends the Good Morning North Central Breakfasts?
A: Our breakfast events attract business leaders, community officials, Chamber members, and other professionals from across North Central Massachusetts. It’s an excellent networking opportunity where you’ll be recognized in front of influential members of our regional business community.
Q: How will my recognition be promoted beyond the breakfast event?
A: We’ll highlight your recognition across our media channels, including our website, newsletters, and social media platforms where we have a strong following of over 50,000 followers. This extends the reach of your recognition well beyond the breakfast attendees.
Q: When are the breakfast events held?
A: Good Morning North Central Breakfasts are held in September, November, January, and March. We do not present recognition awards in May since we focus on our scholarship recognition that month.
Q: What qualifies for Individual Achievement & Major Recognition?
A: This category is for exceptional achievements that bring positive recognition to North Central Massachusetts. Examples that would qualify include major industry awards from recognized organizations (like “National Manufacturer of the Year,” “Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year,” or “Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies”), significant civic honors (like Presidential Medal of Freedom, Malcolm Baldrige Quality Award, or being appointed to a federal commission), or breakthrough innovations with substantial regional impact (like developing a patented technology that creates significant local jobs or receiving national recognition for environmental innovation). Personal achievements like earning a new degree, professional certifications, completing training programs, or being appointed to a nonprofit board are wonderful accomplishments that we’d love to help you celebrate through other channels, but they wouldn’t meet the criteria for breakfast recognition since they don’t have the broader regional impact we’re highlighting at these events.
Q: What qualifies for Community Enhancement recognition?
A: This category recognizes substantial projects or initiatives that improve quality of life across North Central Massachusetts. Examples that would qualify include major infrastructure projects (like building a new community center or recreational facility), significant economic development initiatives, or large-scale construction projects that benefit the broader region (like developing a major mixed-use development or industrial park). Smaller community contributions like sponsoring a local event, volunteering for a charity drive, or donating to a nonprofit are valuable community support that we appreciate, but they would be better recognized through other channels as they don’t represent the major regional enhancement projects this category is designed to highlight.
Q: What if my nominee isn’t selected?
A: We appreciate every nomination we receive! Since we limit recognition to 3-5 honorees at each breakfast to ensure meaningful focus on each recipient, we may hold your nomination for a future breakfast event when the timing and program balance work better. Alternatively, we may reach out to suggest that your nominee would be an excellent fit for another Chamber recognition program that might be more appropriate for the specific achievement, such as our ribbon cutting ceremonies, member spotlights, or other promotional channels. Our goal is to celebrate all our members’ successes through the most fitting recognition opportunity.
Q: How often are recognitions presented?
A: We target 3-5 recognitions at select breakfast events throughout the year, maintaining geographic and category diversity.
Q: Do nominees have to be Chamber members?
A: Yes, this program exclusively recognizes current Chamber members and their achievements.
Q: What makes a strong nomination?
A: Focus on achievements with clear regional impact, specific details about the contribution or milestone, and how it enhances North Central Massachusetts.
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Actualización Legislativa para Miembros de la Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts
Resumen
La Ley "One Big Beautiful Bill" (Un Gran y Hermoso Proyecto de Ley) es un proyecto de ley de conciliación presupuestaria que reduce impuestos, modifica el gasto para diversos programas federales, aumenta el límite legal de la deuda y aborda agencias y programas en todo el gobierno federal, que fue promulgada por el presidente Trump el 4 de julio de 2025. Este paquete de conciliación presupuestaria consolida las prioridades políticas de 10 comités del Senado en un marco legislativo único y de gran alcance, con 870 páginas de disposiciones que impactan significativamente la política fiscal, las operaciones comerciales y el gasto federal en múltiples sectores.
Disposiciones fiscales clave para empresas
Beneficios de Pequeñas Empresas
Deducción por Ingresos Calificados de Negocios (Sección 199A)
Gastos empresariales mejorados
Investigación y Desarrollo
Deducción de Intereses Comerciales
Alivio en la deducción del impuesto estatal y local (SALT, por sus siglas en inglés)
Informe de Alivio
Cambios en el Impuesto sobre la Renta Individual que Afectan a los Propietarios de Negocios
Tasas de Impuesto sobre la Renta de las Personas Físicas
Disposiciones sobre el Impuesto de Sucesiones
Disposiciones relacionadas con empleados
Sin impuestos sobre propinas y horas extras
Crédito Tributario por Hijos
Crédito fiscal mejorado por licencia familiar y médica
Beneficios de cuidado infantil proporcionados por el empleador
Asistencia para Préstamos Estudiantiles
Análisis de Impacto Económico
Según la Oficina de Presupuesto del Congreso, la legislación aumentaría el déficit en $2.4 billones en un plazo de 10 años, con costos adicionales por el servicio de la deuda de $551 mil millones, lo que elevaría el impacto total en el déficit a $3.0 billones. Un análisis independiente estima que la ley aumentaría el PIB a largo plazo en un 1,2 por ciento, al tiempo que reduciría los ingresos fiscales federales en $5 billones durante la próxima década.
Posibles desafíos para las empresas
Costos de Atención Médica y Mano de Obra
Cambios en el Sector Energético
Consideraciones Regionales para el Norte Central de Massachusetts
Beneficios de Fabricación y Producción
Las disposiciones mejoradas para la deducción de gastos empresariales y los incentivos de I+D beneficiarán particularmente al sector manufacturero de la región, permitiendo la deducción inmediata de la compra de equipos e inversiones en investigación a nivel nacional.
Impacto del Sector de Servicios
La deducción permanente por ingresos comerciales calificados 20% seguirá beneficiando a muchas empresas de servicios de la región. Las disposiciones de exención fiscal sobre las propinas y las horas extras beneficiarán principalmente a los trabajadores de ingresos medios en ocupaciones que cumplan con los requisitos, ya que los trabajadores con propinas de ingresos más bajos a menudo ya deben poco o ningún impuesto federal sobre la renta. Los trabajadores que reciben propinas y tienen ingresos más altos (más de $150,000) verán cómo este beneficio se va reduciendo gradualmente. El crédito fiscal mejorado de la FMLA y las disposiciones sobre el uso compartido de servicios de cuidado infantil crean nuevas oportunidades para que las pequeñas empresas colaboren en materia de prestaciones para los empleados.
Apoyo a Pequeñas Empresas
Los límites de deducción de la Sección 179 aumentados y la depreciación adicional mejorada ofrecen ventajas fiscales significativas para las pequeñas y medianas empresas que buscan invertir en equipos y expansión. La disposición de agrupación de cuidado infantil es particularmente beneficiosa para las pequeñas empresas del centro-norte de Massachusetts que buscan mejorar el reclutamiento y la retención de empleados. Permite que varios empleadores pequeños trabajen juntos para proporcionar servicios de cuidado infantil que podrían ser inasequibles individualmente, mientras que todos los participantes siguen siendo elegibles para el crédito fiscal mejorado, lo que ayuda a abordar uno de los mayores desafíos que enfrentan los padres que trabajan al elegir empleadores.
Impacto en el Gobierno y los Programas del Estado de Massachusetts
Basado en las estimaciones de la Oficina de Presupuesto del Congreso y la legislación oficial, Massachusetts enfrenta varios impactos significativos de la Ley "One Big Beautiful Bill Act" que van más allá de las disposiciones comerciales descritas anteriormente.
Cambios en el Sistema de SaludLa Oficina de Presupuesto del Congreso estima que 11.8 millones de estadounidenses perderán la cobertura de seguro médico para 2034 debido a nuevos requisitos de trabajo de Medicaid, cambios en la elegibilidad y modificaciones en el mercado. Massachusetts, que ha ampliado Medicaid bajo la Ley del Cuidado de Salud a Bajo Precio, enfrentará nuevos requisitos federales de trabajo para adultos no discapacitados de 19 a 64 años en la población de expansión. El estado también experimentará una capacidad limitada para financiar la parte estatal de Medicaid y una disminución general de la financiación federal para los programas estatales de Medicaid, junto con una mayor carga administrativa para el personal estatal de elegibilidad.
Cambios en el Programa de Asistencia AlimentariaA partir de 2028, Massachusetts deberá pagar una parte de los beneficios de SNAP según las tasas de error de pago del estado, lo que representa un cambio del sistema actual donde el gobierno federal paga el costo total. Este cambio requerirá que el estado aumente la financiación para la asistencia alimentaria o reduzca potencialmente los beneficios si no se pueden cubrir las brechas de financiación federal.
Financiamiento de la educación superiorLa legislación modifica los requisitos de elegibilidad para las Becas Pell y elimina por completo las becas para estudiantes que asisten a la universidad a tiempo parcial (menos de la mitad de tiempo), lo que afectará de manera desproporcionada a los colegios comunitarios. Sin embargo, la Ley también crea nuevas “Becas Pell para la Fuerza Laboral” para estudiantes inscritos en programas de fuerza laboral elegibles que brindan de 150 a 600 horas de instrucción durante un mínimo de 8 semanas, lo que podría beneficiar a los colegios comunitarios y a otros proveedores de capacitación acreditados que ofrecen programas de fuerza laboral de corto plazo. Estos cambios podrían afectar a miles de estudiantes de Massachusetts, en particular a aquellos en programas de desarrollo de la fuerza laboral y educación continua.
Respuesta Fiscal EstatalSegún el análisis de distribución de la Oficina de Presupuesto del Congreso, la legislación afectará las respuestas fiscales de los estados a través de cambios en los impuestos y el gasto estatales como resultado de los cambios en la financiación de programas federales. Massachusetts deberá tomar decisiones políticas sobre si compensar las reducciones de financiamiento federal o permitir que los recortes en los programas surtan efecto.
Cronograma de Implementación
Qué deben hacer las empresas ahora
Conclusión
La Ley "The One Big Beautiful Bill Act" representa la legislación fiscal más importante en años, con cambios sustanciales que afectan a las empresas a través de deducciones mejoradas, reducciones permanentes de las tasas impositivas y mejores incentivos para la inversión de capital. La legislación también presenta desafíos, particularmente en torno a los costos de atención médica, los créditos fiscales de energía y los cambios en los programas federales. El impacto en las empresas del centro norte de Massachusetts variará significativamente según el sector industrial, el tamaño de la empresa y las circunstancias individuales, y algunas empresas se beneficiarán sustancialmente, mientras que otras pueden enfrentar mayores costos o desafíos operativos.
Los propietarios de negocios deben trabajar estrechamente con sus asesores fiscales y legales para comprender y optimizar completamente su posición bajo la nueva ley.
Disclaimer: This summary is provided for informational purposes only and is based on official sources including Congressional Budget Office reports, the official legislation text, and government publications. This information does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of this information. Tax laws are complex and subject to interpretation and change. Members should consult with qualified attorneys, certified public accountants, or other professional advisors before making any business decisions based on this information. The Chamber strongly recommends that businesses seek professional guidance to understand how these legislative changes may specifically impact their individual circumstances.
Sources
Primary Legislative Sources:
Congressional Budget Office Reports:
Additional Official Sources:
At Workers Credit Union, the focus is on one thing: building the financial wellness of its members. Founded in 1914 by John Suominen, a Finnish immigrant and successful printing company owner in Fitchburg, MA, Workers Credit Union began with a simple mission to support the economic welfare of fellow immigrants. Fast forward more than a century, and the credit union is thriving, boasting over $2.4 billion in assets and serving more than 125,000 personal and business members across North Central Massachusetts and beyond.
A Legacy of Service to the Community
What started as a vision to help immigrants is now a cornerstone of financial well-being for people in all walks of life. Workers Credit Union remains member-owned and focused on its core mission: to empower members to build better financial futures. With a broad range of services from checking and savings accounts to home and auto loans, small business and commercial loans, and insurance through Workers Insurance Agency the credit union provides tailored financial solutions to individuals and businesses alike.
What Sets Workers Credit Union Apart?
Unlike many financial institutions, Workers Credit Union isn’t just about business; it’s about community. The credit union has long been dedicated to supporting local organizations and initiatives. From Relay For Life to Habitat for Humanity, Workers is actively involved in making a positive impact in the region. Their commitment goes beyond just financial contributions they prioritize volunteerism and community outreach, ensuring that they’re a true partner in the growth and success of North Central Massachusetts.
A Work Culture Focused on Collaboration and Transparency
Workers Credit Union’s internal culture mirrors the community-oriented values it holds. The company promotes a work environment grounded in collaboration, transparency, and mutual support. Employees are encouraged to take part in initiatives that make a difference both inside and outside the workplace. When hiring, Workers looks for people who share this commitment to community and teamwork qualities that enable employees to provide the best service to their members.

Fun Fact: A Partnership with the WooSox
Not only is Workers Credit Union rooted in the community, but they also know how to have fun! The credit union is a proud partner of the Worcester Red Sox (WooSox) and has created an exciting Augmented Reality scavenger hunt at Polar Park called Woofster’s Workers Reality. Fans can join in the fun, complete challenges, take home a limited-edition prize poster, and enter for a chance to win season tickets for the WooSox. It’s just one example of how Workers blends community involvement with innovative, engaging experiences.
Looking Ahead: Big Plans for the Future
With over 110 years of service in North Central Massachusetts, Workers Credit Union is excited about the future. With a commitment to innovation and exceptional service, they’re poised to continue being a trusted partner for members across the region for another hundred years!
Community Impact
Whether through a one-on-one conversation with a member of their dedicated staff or a digital interaction via online or mobile banking, Workers Credit Union provides exceptional service in any channel.
In a world full of financial institutions, Workers Credit Union stands out not only for its competitive offerings but for its deep-rooted commitment to the community, its collaborative and transparent workplace culture, and its innovative approach to engaging with members and supporters. Whether you’re a new member or a long-time customer, it’s clear that Workers Credit Union is not just a financial institution it’s a partner in building a better future.
For more information, visit Workers Credit Union’s Website and see how they can help you achieve your financial goals!
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Care Central VNA & Hospice, a leading provider of community-based home health, hospice, private duty, and adult day care in Central Massachusetts, will be accepting the transfer of care of patients and will be welcoming staff for employment, following the upcoming transition from Overlook VNA & Hospice.
Overlook VNA & Hospice recently announced its decision to transfer operations effective August 28, 2025. In collaboration with Overlook leadership, Care Central is coordinating a compassionate, well-structured transition of care for patients who choose to seamlessly continue with their home health & hospice services.
“Our foremost priority throughout this transition is to ensure patients and families continue to receive uninterrupted, high-quality care,” said Holly Chaffee, President and CEO of Care Central VNA & Hospice. “We are also proud to welcome members of the Overlook team who share our commitment to compassionate, community-focused care.”
Care Central has initiated onboarding efforts for Overlook clinicians and support staff, many of whom will continue serving the same patients and service areas to preserve continuity and trust. Patients and families will be personally contacted to ease the transition and provide updated information about their new Care Central care team.
“As a proud, free-standing nonprofit organization serving Central Massachusetts, we are thrilled to share a milestone moment in our history—we are doubling in size,” said Holly Chaffee, President & CEO of Care Central VNA & Hospice. “With this expansion, our service territory will reach 128 towns, welcoming 30 new communities into our care. This tremendous growth allows us to touch the lives of even more patients and families with the compassionate, high-quality care they deserve. Equally important, we are honored to welcome talented members of the Overlook team whose dedication to our mission will further strengthen our presence and amplify our impact across the nonprofit community.”
“This transition guarantees that those we have been honored to serve will continue receiving the same high-quality, compassionate care through a trusted organization that shares our values and unwavering commitment to residents and the community. By choosing Care Central VNA & Hospice, patients will not only experience continuity of care but will also be comforted by the familiar faces of staff they already know and trust,” said Tameryn Campbell of Overlook VNA & Hospice.
For more information about Care Central VNA & Hospice or to inquire about services or employment opportunities, please visit www.carecentralvna.org or call 978-632-1230.
Excitement is in the air! Get ready to be part of something extraordinary at Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts’s fundraising event. Enjoy food and drinks from local vendors as well as networking, a silent auction and wine pull. Your admission fee will allow you to taste all of the samplings and help build homes and complete critical home repair projects in our local communities
Event Details:
Tickets are LIVE for A Toast to Hope!
Date: Thursday, October 16
Time: 7–9 PM
Location: Devens Common Center

Time & Location
Oct 04, 2025, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
College of the Holy Cross, 1 College St, Worcester, MA 01610
About The Event
In today’s fast-paced media environment, dominated by social media, how you communicate about a crisis is one of the most important aspects of leading through it. Effective crisis communication begins in the calm before the storm, in developing healthy relationships with reporters, organizing your team to prepare and to act as one, and in putting communication at the very front of your leadership efforts. Admiral John Kirby became the face — and the voice — of numerous high-profile crises, from the Navy Yard shooting of 2013 to the wars in Ukraine and Gaza and dozens more. Learn from Admiral Kirby how to prepare for crises and lead — both in action and communication — when they arise.
Register here to attend Admiral Kirby’s keynote speech at Holy Cross (One College Street, Worcester) on Saturday, October 4th at 5:30pm.
This event is hosted by the O’Callahan Society and Holy Cross’ Office of Alumni Relations. Questions may be directed to
Registrarse ahoraWhen the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”
Discover local business stories through our Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast series. Listen as Chamber members share their journeys, insights, and contributions to our thriving regional business community.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore current job openings from employers across North Central Massachusetts on our Jobs Board. Whether you’re starting a new career or making a change, you’ll find a variety of local positions available to help you take the next step.
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