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.
June 2026
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The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the participants selected for the 2025 Community Leadership Institute (CLI). This prestigious nine-month program equips future leaders with essential skills and deep regional knowledge, focusing on key sectors and topics including media and crisis communications; non-profit governance and volunteerism; healthcare; arts and culture; government and the legislative process; manufacturing; economic development; and the legal system.
Established in 1989, CLI has graduated more than 300 community leaders over its 36-year history, with over 100 alumni in the past five years alone. The program identifies and develops emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds who will shape our region’s future.
The Community Leadership Institute delivers its comprehensive curriculum through monthly sessions from October through June. Each participant, sponsored by their respective business organization, gains extensive exposure to regional challenges and opportunities. The Chamber accepts applications annually during July and August, selecting participants who demonstrate strong leadership potential and commitment to community service.
“CLI continues to be our flagship leadership development program, preparing the next generation of regional leaders,” says Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s class represents the diverse talent and potential within North Central Massachusetts.”
“The caliber of this year’s class is exceptional,” notes Dr. Michael Greenwood, Chair of the Community Leadership Institute Program. “These emerging leaders bring fresh perspectives and energy that will undoubtedly strengthen our region’s future economic and social fabric.”
CLI Class of 2025 Participants:
Elizabeth Aguilera, Rollstone Bank & Trust
Hannah Bovill, Bemis Associates
Stefanae Bowen, Mount Wachusett Community College
Marian Colón, Enterprise Bank & Trust
Catherine Comerford, Workers’ Credit Union
Travis Condon, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Emily Dewey, IC Federal Credit Union
Danielle Duval, Leominster Credit Union
Rosa Fernandez, Health Equity Partnership of North Central MA
Luisa Fernandez, Fitchburg Public Schools
Calla Flannery, Workers’ Credit Union
Jacqui Girouard, AIS, Inc.
Nate Glenny, Fitchburg Access Television
Deborah Hinkle, Fitchburg Public Library
Lauren Howe, empHowered PR
Michael Kennedy, Fitchburg State University
Brittany Knowles, Bin There Dump That
Meghan Macieko, Community Foundation of North Central MA
Towma Rastad, Fidelity Bank
Sabbra Reyes, Visit North Central Massachusetts
Brandon Robbins, Ginny’s Helping Hand
Eladia Romero, Office of Representative James McGovern
Jake Simopoulos, MA State Senate Office of Senator John J. Cronin
Kristen Smith, NXT Level Studios
Sarah Tavitian, NewVue Communities
Lynese Wiafe, Fitchburg State University
For more information on the Community Leadership Institute, please visit www.northcentralmass.com/overview/cli or contact Maureen Babcock at or 978.353.7600 ext. 222.
Question 5: A Well-Intentioned Measure with Unintended Consequences
As the President and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, I feel compelled to address the potential impacts of Massachusetts Ballot Question 5 on our local economy and communities. While the intention behind this measure—to ensure fair wages for all workers—is laudable, the reality is that its passage could have severe unintended consequences for our region’s restaurants and hospitality businesses, their employees, and the broader economic ecosystem they support.
Question 5 proposes to gradually increase the minimum wage for tipped workers until it matches the standard minimum wage by 2029, effectively eliminating the tipped minimum wage system that has long been a cornerstone of the restaurant industry. Under the proposed ballot question, tipping would still be allowed, but for the first time, restaurants would also be permitted to pool and share those tips with cooks, bookkeepers, and other back-of-the-house workers who aren’t currently allowed to share in the tips from waitstaff and bartenders. On the surface, this might seem like a straightforward way to improve workers’ lives; however, the situation is far more complex.
Our independent restaurants are woven into the fabric of North Central Massachusetts. They are more than just places to eat; they are economic engines, social hubs, and integral parts of the identity for many of our communities. These establishments breathe life into our downtowns and commercial districts, draw visitors to our region, provide first jobs to our youth, and create sustainable careers for many. They support a network of local suppliers, farms and other small businesses. The meal and property taxes generated also contribute substantially to funding essential municipal services and schools in our communities.
The current tipped wage system, when implemented correctly, allows for a delicate balance. It keeps menu prices affordable while enabling servers to earn well above minimum wage through a combination of base pay and tips.
If Question 5 passes, restaurant owners will face some stark choices: significantly raise prices, reduce staff, or both. This isn’t mere speculation. We’ve heard directly from local restaurant owners who are deeply concerned about their ability to keep their doors open if this measure passes. This measure would come at a time when their industry, which has always operated on thin margins, is still rebounding from the pandemic, coping with inflation and high credit card fees, wrestling with soaring energy and insurance costs, and adapting to changes in dining habits in a work-from-home economy. Their alarm signals a threat not just to our beloved establishments, but to our broader economic ecosystem.
Higher menu prices could lead to reduced customer traffic, especially in a time when many households are already feeling the pinch of inflation. Reduced staffing would mean fewer job opportunities, particularly for young people and those seeking flexible work arrangements. And if restaurants close, we lose not just those jobs, but the spillover economic benefits restaurants provide to neighboring businesses and suppliers.
Moreover, the elimination of the tipped wage system could paradoxically lead to lower take-home pay for many servers. If restaurants raise prices to cover higher base wages, customers may tip less, believing that gratuities are no longer necessary. Potentially introducing tip pooling to back-of-the-house workers could also further erode server earnings, resulting in servers earning less overall than they do under the current system.
It’s also worth noting that Massachusetts already has strong protections in place for tipped workers. If a server’s tips plus their base wage don’t reach the standard minimum wage, employers are required to make up the difference. This ensures that no tipped employee ever earns less than the standard minimum wage.
As we consider our vote on Question 5, let’s remember the full picture of what’s at stake: this isn’t just about a number on a paycheck. It’s about the vitality of our downtowns, the opportunities for our youth, the diversity of our culinary scene, and the overall economic health of our region.
I urge voters to carefully consider these broader implications and vote “No” on Question 5. Let’s instead work together to find solutions that support good wages and thriving local businesses—goals that are not mutually exclusive when approached thoughtfully.
Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM
President and CEO
Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts
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As the Commonwealth’s voters go to the polls in less than a month, we at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce are deeply concerned about Massachusetts Ballot Question 2, which proposes to eliminate the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) statewide standardized tests as a primary high school graduation requirement. While well-intentioned, this measure threatens to undermine the educational progress our state has made and could have far-reaching consequences for our students, businesses and regional economy.
MCAS has been a cornerstone of the Massachusetts education system since passage of the 1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Act. This law was a bipartisan effort resulting in significant new funding for education, accompanied by high statewide standards for learning, and a system for measuring progress. More than thirty years later, schools in Massachusetts are the envy of America, propelled from the middle of the pack to the very top of the national education rankings today. But this achievement is more than just a point of pride—it’s a key driver of our state’s economic competitiveness.
In North Central Massachusetts, we’ve seen firsthand how a strong education system attracts businesses, creates jobs and helps build thriving communities. MCAS plays a crucial role in maintaining accountability and high standards, ensuring that a Massachusetts high school diploma signifies a basic level of academic achievement.
Proponents of Question 2 argue the MCAS creates undue stress and doesn’t accurately measure student abilities. They also contend the system unfairly impacts students facing various challenges, including those with disabilities, from low-income households, and experiencing other forms of educational disadvantages. While we acknowledge MCAS isn’t perfect, we believe eliminating the state’s only graduation requirement is an overreaction that could have unintended negative consequences.
Removing the MCAS could lead to a patchwork of standards across the state, potentially exacerbating educational inequities. Without a common benchmark, it becomes challenging to ensure all students, regardless of their zip code, receive a quality education that prepares them for future success. The MCAS also serves as an important assessment tool, providing valuable data to help identify and address achievement gaps. Losing this tool could make it harder to pinpoint areas where additional resources and support are needed, ultimately disadvantaging the students who need help the most. Our region’s economic growth depends on a skilled workforce. Weakening our education standards could also make us less attractive to businesses looking to invest and expand.
Instead of scrapping the MCAS and eliminating uniform, statewide standards, we should focus on improving it. We can work to make the test more inclusive and representative of diverse learning styles while maintaining high standards. We can also enhance support systems for students who struggle with standardized tests without lowering the bar for everyone.
As business leaders, we understand the importance of measurement and continuous improvement. The MCAS has played a significant role in Massachusetts’ rise to educational prominence, benefiting students, families, and our economy.
We urge voters to consider the broader implications of Question 2 carefully. A “No” vote will help preserve the high standards that have served our students and economy so well. Abandoning uniform statewide standards and a commitment to educational excellence would be a great disservice to our young people and their future success.
Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM
President & CEO
Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce near me | Massachusetts Business | New England Town | Blog | Legislative Issues | MCAS Graduation Requirement | Vote NO on Question 2 | Elected Officials | Question 2 | Massachusetts Ballot Question | Local Economy Impact | Business Community | Public Affairs | Local Business
El North Central Golf Tour: Viernes en la Cancha del Templewood Golf Course
31 de julio de 2026
Viernes en la Cancha en el Campo de Golf Templewood
31 de julio de 2026
Campo de Golf Templewood
El evento comienza a la 1:00 p.m. View
Event
Clínica de Golf Fore Then Pore, Juego de 9 Hoyos y Fiesta de Fin de Verano
21 de agosto de 2026
Clínica de Golf, Juego de 9 Hoyos y Gran Final de Verano
21 de agosto de 2026
The Woods of Westminster
Inicio del evento a la 1:00pm View
Event
Sponsors Reception: Old Mill
26 de agosto de 2026
¡Gracias a todos nuestros patrocinadores que ayudaron a patrocinar este pasado año del programa 2025-2026! ¡Nos sentimos verdaderamente honrados por su continuo apoyo y sus esfuerzos para que nuestra comunidad siga prosperando! View
Event
WIN TWO Ring Cameras, an iRobot Roomba, a “Mini Clean” from Get Clean Co, and a 10-Yard Dumpster Rental from Bin There Dump That—plus some small extras!
LUK, Inc. has recently received funding from the Reliant Foundation to expand their Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention trainings. This is Reliant Foundation’s fourth year funding these trainings for LUK.
LUK shares Reliant Foundation’s goal to reduce stigma around mental health and substance use disorders. By raising awareness, the agency hopes to strengthen mental/behavioral health services for youth and adults, encourage individuals to strive for recovery, or support a loved one in their recovery journey.
With last year’s funding from Reliant Foundation, LUK met and surpassed their goal of training 900 individuals in mental health and suicide prevention through their ongoing partnerships with schools, PTOs, community organizations, and civic groups.
This funding from Reliant Foundation will allow LUK to continue offering a variety of trainings that vary in length, intensity, and scope, allowing training partners to select the most appropriate curriculum for their setting. The overall goal of the project is to raise awareness of mental health challenges, prevent suicide, and connect people in need to supportive services.
“LUK would like to send our gratitude to the Reliant Foundation for their continued support of our mental health training program. This program provides essential education to the community on understanding mental health symptoms in order to intervene both early and effectively,” adds LUK President & CEO Beth Barto. “This funding from Reliant Foundation helps LUK towards creating safe, healthy and resilient communities.”
LUK is thankful for Reliant Foundation’s support and looks forward to another year of offering these important trainings to the Central MA community.
LUK, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the safety, health, and well-being of youth, families, and adults in Central Massachusetts. As a community-based organization, LUK’s mission is to challenge and inspire youth, adults, and families to realize their unique potential through community-based prevention, intervention, education, and support services.
Rollstone Bank & Trust, Fitchburg, MA proudly acknowledges that it has, once again, received a 5-Star Superior rating from BauerFinancial, the Nation’s Premier Bank Rating Firm. A 5-Star Superior rating indicates that Rollstone Bank & Trust is one of the strongest banks in the nation, excelling in areas of capital, loan quality, profitability and more. This marks the 121st consecutive quarter that Rollstone Bank & Trust has earned this top rating, which secures it an even more elite status as a “Best of Bauer Bank”, an honor reserved solely for banks that have maintained a 5-Star rating for 25 years or longer.
“A lot of things are changing”, reflects Karen L. Dorway, president of BauerFinancial. “Rules and regulations are being retooled, technology is advancing at lightning speed, and it’s easy to feel like you’re getting lost in the fray,” she continues. “People don’t want to feel like that at their bank. When they walk into a branch, they want to feel confident that their deposits are safe, that all rules are being followed, and that their banker understands their specific needs. That’s why it’s so important to have 5-Star rated (Superior) banks, like Rollstone Bank & Trust, in our communities. We can be confident that they have our hard-earned deposits properly secured.”
Rollstone Bank & Trust was established in 1846 and has been meeting the specific needs of the people in the communities it serves for 179 years. You can be proud to call Rollstone Bank & Trust your bank.
Miembro Destacado
Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody
When 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.
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