{"id":15,"date":"2015-05-15T15:08:52","date_gmt":"2015-05-15T15:08:52","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/test.kriesi.at\/church\/?page_id=15"},"modified":"2023-12-11T14:23:53","modified_gmt":"2023-12-11T19:23:53","slug":"news","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/news\/","title":{"rendered":"Noticias"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<style type=\"text\/css\" data-created_by=\"avia_inline_auto\" id=\"style-css-av-4zi7b-38967060ed317c3253cfa03a95e26887\">\n.avia-section.av-4zi7b-38967060ed317c3253cfa03a95e26887{\nbackground-repeat:no-repeat;\nbackground-image:url(https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/gm-Sneyg.jpeg);\nbackground-position:50% 0%;\nbackground-attachment:fixed;\n}\n.avia-section.av-4zi7b-38967060ed317c3253cfa03a95e26887 .av-section-color-overlay{\nopacity:0.3;\nbackground-color:#000000;\n}\n<\/style>\n<div id='av_section_1'  class='avia-section av-4zi7b-38967060ed317c3253cfa03a95e26887 main_color 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avia-builder-el-last  first no_margin flex_column_table_cell av-equal-height-column av-align-top  '     ><p>\n<style type=\"text\/css\" data-created_by=\"avia_inline_auto\" id=\"style-css-av-av_heading-a32859eac7d090ee6cff5c272d3e6a21\">\n#top .av-special-heading.av-av_heading-a32859eac7d090ee6cff5c272d3e6a21{\npadding-bottom:10px;\ncolor:#006666;\n}\nbody .av-special-heading.av-av_heading-a32859eac7d090ee6cff5c272d3e6a21 .av-special-heading-tag .heading-char{\nfont-size:25px;\n}\n.av-special-heading.av-av_heading-a32859eac7d090ee6cff5c272d3e6a21 .special-heading-inner-border{\nborder-color:#006666;\n}\n.av-special-heading.av-av_heading-a32859eac7d090ee6cff5c272d3e6a21 .av-subheading{\nfont-size:15px;\n}\n<\/style>\n<div  class='av-special-heading av-av_heading-a32859eac7d090ee6cff5c272d3e6a21 av-special-heading-h2 custom-color-heading  avia-builder-el-7  el_before_av_blog  avia-builder-el-first '><h2 class='av-special-heading-tag '  itemprop=\"headline\"  >All Latest News<\/h2><div class=\"special-heading-border\"><div class=\"special-heading-inner-border\"><\/div><\/div><\/div><br \/>\n<div  class='av-alb-blogposts template-blog  av_force_fullwidth '  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/Blog\" ><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24667 post-loop-1 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24667 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/brick-marketing-to-host-webinar-ai-seo-get-your-brand-seen-and-chosen-online\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Brick Marketing to Host Webinar: AI SEO \u2013 Get Your Brand Seen and Chosen Online\">Brick Marketing to Host Webinar: AI SEO \u2013 Get Your Brand Seen and Chosen Online<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-09-10T09:07:05-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 10th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>BOSTON, MA [September 1, 2026] \u2014 Brick Marketing, a Boston digital marketing agency founded in 2005, will host a free webinar titled AI SEO: Get Your Brand Seen and Chosen Online on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The program lasts 60 minutes and is designed for business owners,<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-24668\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1-300x200.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1-1030x687.png 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1-18x12.png 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1-705x470.png 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/BM_3x3_inches-1.png 1350w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>\u00a0marketing leaders, sales leaders, and communications professionals who want their companies to appear more often in traditional search results and answers produced by AI platforms.<\/p>\n<p>Attendees do not need a technical background to benefit from the session. The program will translate AI search concepts into practical marketing actions that teams can apply to websites, content calendars, company profiles, media outreach, and sales materials. It will also clarify the difference between appearing in an AI response and earning a meaningful recommendation, with attention to the accuracy, consistency, and credibility of the information AI systems can find about a business online.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Registration and complete webinar information are available at:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brickmarketing.com\/webinars\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">https:\/\/www.brickmarketing.com\/webinars<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The webinar will explain how AI SEO, Generative Engine Optimization, and Answer Engine Optimization work together with established SEO and content marketing practices. Attendees will learn how platforms such as ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Claude, Perplexity, and Microsoft Copilot interpret business information, assess authority, and decide which brands to mention when responding to questions.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBeing visible is no longer only about earning a strong position on a search results page,\u201d said Nick Stamoulis, President of Brick Marketing. \u201cCompanies also need to make it easy for AI platforms to understand who they are, what they offer, who they serve, and why their expertise is credible. This webinar will give business and marketing leaders a clear framework for improving those signals so their brands have a better chance to be seen, cited, and chosen.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Stamoulis and Katherine Tsoukalas, Brick Marketing\u2019s Director of Marketing, will guide attendees through the foundations of AI search visibility. The discussion will cover how AI platforms crawl and interpret website content, how clear site structure supports machine understanding, and why consistent company information across websites, articles, profiles, and trusted third party sources matters.<\/p>\n<p>The presenters will also address the role of content depth, topic alignment, entity recognition, structured data, citations, and brand messaging. Attendees will see why a company website must clearly communicate services, audiences, expertise, locations, and proof of experience. The session will connect these elements to practical decisions about service pages, educational resources, frequently asked questions, company background information, and thought leadership.<\/p>\n<p>Another focus will be the continuing work required to support AI search performance. Brick Marketing will discuss brand citation audits, visibility monitoring, content reviews, and the refinement of authority signals over time. Participants will leave with a clearer understanding of what to evaluate, which gaps may be limiting visibility, and how to prioritize improvements that serve both people and AI systems.<\/p>\n<p>The webinar is especially relevant for organizations that already invest in SEO but are uncertain about how AI generated answers affect discovery and consideration. Rather than treating GEO as a separate marketing program, the presentation will show how it can complement technical SEO, content strategy, public relations, brand development, and reputation building.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Businesses seeking more information about Brick Marketing\u2019s AI SEO, GEO, and AEO services can visit:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.brickmarketing.com\/aio-geo-search\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external nofollow noopener noreferrer\" data-wpel-link=\"external\">https:\/\/www.brickmarketing.com\/aio-geo-search<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The live webinar is free and will run for approximately one hour. Space is limited. People who cannot attend the live session may still register to receive access to the replay recording after the event.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24614 post-loop-2 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24614 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/rollstone-bank-trust-charitable-foundation-highlights-commitment-to-community-giving\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Rollstone Bank &#038; Trust Charitable Foundation Highlights Commitment to Community Giving\">Rollstone Bank &#038; Trust Charitable Foundation Highlights Commitment to Community Giving<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-09-08T08:50:45-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 8th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>FITCHBURG, Mass. (August 20, 2026) \u2014<\/strong> In recognition of National Nonprofit Day, Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust and the Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust Charitable Foundation are celebrating the nonprofit organizations, schools, and community partners whose work strengthens North Central Massachusetts and makes a difference in the lives of local residents.<\/p>\n<p>For Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust, being a community bank means knowing that where you matter most is in the communities you call home. As a mutual bank, Rollstone is owned not by outside shareholders, but by its depositors and the communities it serves. That structure allows the Bank to reinvest in those communities through charitable giving, community partnerships, and employee volunteerism\u2014support made possible by the customers who choose to bank with Rollstone.<\/p>\n<p>Since its inception in 2005, the Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust Charitable Foundation has awarded more than $3.8 million in grants to nonprofit organizations and community initiatives throughout North Central Massachusetts. In 2026 alone, the Foundation has committed $240,000 to organizations working across a broad range of needs, including arts and culture, human services, education, housing, environmental stewardship, and community support.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBeing where you matter most means being there for the people and organizations that make our communities stronger,\u201d said Mary Beth Jokela, President and COO of Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust. \u201cOur nonprofit partners are doing important work every day to create opportunities, support families, preserve our community\u2019s culture, and improve quality of life. Supporting that work isn\u2019t separate from what we do as a bank\u2014it is central to who we are.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The Foundation\u2019s most recent round of grants, approved at its June meeting, provides a snapshot of the breadth of its philanthropic focus with $41,000 awarded to 10 nonprofit and community organizations. Among the June recipients were the Fitchburg Art Museum and Montachusett Chorale, supporting the region\u2019s vibrant arts and cultural community; North Star Family Services, Ginny\u2019s Helping Hand, and Care Net PRC, providing vital support and resources to individuals and families; and North Middlesex High School, supporting educational opportunities for local students.<\/p>\n<p>Additional grants support environmental stewardship through the Nashua River Watershed Association, the Twin Cities Rail Trail project through the Greater Lowell Community Foundation, housing through Habitat for Humanity North Central MA, and energy assistance through the Mayor\u2019s Energy Fund.<\/p>\n<p>Together, these organizations reflect the many ways community needs intersect\u2014and the many ways Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust seeks to be there for the people and neighborhoods it serves.<\/p>\n<p>Also in 2026, the Foundation provided $20,000 to thirteen local graduating high school seniors with its inaugural Opportunity Awards Scholarship Program. The funds were split between those attending Fitchburg State University this fall semester, and those transitioning directly into the workforce in their skilled trade. This program celebrates Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust\u2019s commitment to the future of its local workforce and the decision of students to pursue affordable higher education in Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p>The Foundation\u2019s impact is part of a broader commitment to giving back. Together with its affiliated banks, Newburyport Bank and Pentucket Bank, River Run contributed more than $1.6 million in charitable donations and grants in 2025, while employees volunteered nearly 8,162 hours in service to 562 organizations across the region.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAt Rollstone, we believe community banking is about more than where you do your banking\u2014it\u2019s about being part of something bigger,\u201d Jokela added. \u201cWhen our communities thrive, we all thrive. We\u2019re proud to invest in the organizations and people who make North Central Massachusetts such a special place to live, work, and grow.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust Charitable Foundation welcomes grant requests from eligible nonprofit organizations whose programs and initiatives improve quality of life throughout North Central Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p><strong><u>About Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust<\/u><\/strong><br \/>\nFounded in 1846, Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust is a trusted community banking partner committed to strengthening the financial well-being of individuals, families, and businesses throughout North Central Massachusetts. Headquartered in Fitchburg, MA, the Bank provides a full range of personal and business banking services through multiple community banking locations. Guided by a long-standing tradition of service, relationships, and local investment, Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust is dedicated to helping communities thrive. Alongside Newburyport Bank and Pentucket Bank, Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust is supported by River Run Bancorp, MHC. With collective assets of $3.6 billion, River Run ensures shared strength and resources in support of our banks and the communities they serve.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24315 post-loop-3 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24315 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/allie-catlin-to-chair-north-central-massachusetts-chamber-of-commerce-board-of-directors\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Allie Catlin to Chair North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors\">Allie Catlin to Chair North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-09-04T09:45:44-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 4th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Chamber News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><em>North Central Mass<\/em>\u2014 Allie Catlin, co-owner of <a href=\"https:\/\/smithscountrycheese.com\/\">Smith\u2019s Country Cheese<\/a>, a family-owned working dairy farm, creamery, and retail destination in Winchendon, Massachusetts, has been elected Chair of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce board of directors for 2026-2027. The announcement was made at the Chamber\u2019s Annual Meeting on June 11, 2026. As Chair of the Chamber\u2019s board of directors, she will work with fellow board members, Chamber staff, and the membership to champion the Chamber in its mission to serve the region\u2019s business community.<\/p>\n<p><strong><em><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-24224\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Headshot-Allie-C-300x263.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"263\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Headshot-Allie-C-300x263.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Headshot-Allie-C-14x12.jpg 14w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/Headshot-Allie-C.jpg 661w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Catlin brings deep roots in the region\u2019s agricultural economy to her new role. Founded in 1985, Smith\u2019s Country Cheese has grown into one of the region\u2019s most beloved agricultural enterprises. In 2016, Catlin and her family purchased the farm from its founder and built on its legacy, growing the operation into a thriving business that draws visitors from across the region to its farm store and working dairy farm, where guests can shop for handcrafted cheeses, milk, and butter and watch the cheesemaking process firsthand.<\/p>\n<p>Under her co-ownership, Smith\u2019s Country Cheese employs 14 people and produces approximately 180,000 pounds of raw milk Gouda, Havarti, and cheddar cheese annually, distributed nationally through the farm store, local farmers markets, and online. In 2024, Catlin was named to the Worcester Business Journal\u2019s Power 100 list of the most influential professionals in Central Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p>Catlin holds degrees from Franklin Pierce University and Suffolk University and has served on the Chamber\u2019s Board of Directors for several years, holding leadership positions on the board, including Vice Chair.<\/p>\n<p>She succeeds Tony Fields, president and owner of Cleartech Group, who now moves to the position of Immediate Past Chair of the board of directors.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe Chamber has been such an important partner to our farm and to so many small businesses across this region,\u201d said Catlin. \u201cI\u2019m honored to take on this role and to continue the work of connecting our business community, supporting our members, and championing the people and places that make North Central Massachusetts such a special place to live and work.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;As a farmer and small business owner, Allie brings a perspective to the board that&#8217;s vital to understanding the full picture of our regional economy,&#8221; said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. &#8220;Her leadership will help ensure the Chamber continues to serve businesses of every size and sector, and I look forward to working with her in the year ahead as we continue advancing the economic vitality of North Central Massachusetts.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>In the same election, <strong>Melissa Glenny<\/strong>, founder and CEO, Franklin Professional Associates, located in Leominster, was elected Vice Chair. <strong>Chri<\/strong><strong>s Hendry<\/strong>, president and CEO, IC Credit Union, located in Fitchburg, was elected to the position of Treasurer.\u00a0 Rounding out the Executive Committee, <strong>Mark Hettinger<\/strong>, president and CEO of GFA Federal Credit Union, and <strong>Patrick McCarty<\/strong>, president of the McCarty Companies, were elected to fill the two non-officer seats on the committee as outlined in the Chamber&#8217;s bylaws.<\/p>\n<p>Board members elected for new terms were<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Tony Fields<\/strong>, president and owner, Cleartech Group, Leominster<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dr. Donna Hodge<\/strong>, president, Fitchburg State University, Fitchburg<\/li>\n<li><strong>Johnny Ahern<\/strong>, managing partner, Aroma Joe\u2019s, Leominster<\/li>\n<li><strong>David Moura<\/strong>, president, Moura\u2019s Cleaning Service, Fitchburg<\/li>\n<li><strong>Nicole Moorshead<\/strong>, general manager, Chocksett Inn, Sterling and the Colonial Hotel, Gardner<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rozanna Penney<\/strong>, president &amp; CEO, Heywood Healthcare, Gardner<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kenneth Hodges<\/strong>, plant director, Georgia-Pacific\/Dixie, Leominster, appointed to fill a one-year board vacancy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Continuing current terms on the board of directors are<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Marieke Cormier<\/strong>, owner, Roots Natural Foods, Leominster<\/li>\n<li><strong>Joseph Basile<\/strong>, president, Catania Oils, Ayer<\/li>\n<li><strong>Patrick McCarty<\/strong>, president &amp; CEO, McCarty Companies, Leominster<\/li>\n<li><strong>Mark Hettinger<\/strong>, president and CEO, GFA Federal Credit Union, Gardner<\/li>\n<li><strong>Barbara Mahoney<\/strong>, president &amp; CEO, All-One Credit Union, Leominster<\/li>\n<li><strong>Joshua Page<\/strong>, president, JP Electric and Son, Fitchburg<\/li>\n<li><strong>Alex Matthews<\/strong>, general manager, Great Wolf Lodge New England, Fitchburg<\/li>\n<li><strong>Kayla Nault<\/strong>, broker\/owner, Central Mass Real Estate, North Central Massachusetts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>The Chamber congratulates its newly elected and appointed board members and thanks all those who continue their service to the region&#8217;s business community. For more information, visit northcentralmass.com.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24674 post-loop-4 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24674 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/north-central-massachusetts-chamber-of-commerce-leads-effort-to-install-welcome-sign-in-lancaster\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce leads effort to install welcome sign in Lancaster\">North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce leads effort to install welcome sign in Lancaster<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-09-03T12:06:54-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 3rd<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Chamber News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><h4 class=\"xmsonormal\" style=\"text-align: left;\" align=\"center\"><i><span style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; color: black;\">Sign provides recognition of civic pride for residents and visitors alike<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright size-medium wp-image-24675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-300x225.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-300x225.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-1030x773.jpeg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-768x576.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-1536x1152.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-16x12.jpeg 16w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-1500x1125.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign-705x529.jpeg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/NCMCC-Lancaster-Welcome-Sign.jpeg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/span><\/i><\/h4>\n<p>FITCHBURG, Mass.\u2014Sept. 2, 2026\u2014The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce today announced it sponsored the construction of a new welcome sign in the Town of Lancaster located at the Bartlett Conservation Area at the intersection of Route 117 and Route 190.<\/p>\n<p>The new sign is part of a project to construct welcome signs at key gateways in the region to boost civic pride and serve as a positive first impression for visitors.<\/p>\n<p>The signs were designed and produced by Add-A-Sign in Leominster and represent the region\u2019s traditional New England style. The Lancaster welcome sign includes the Town of Lancaster\u2019s seal and is painted in the town\u2019s color of maroon.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;One North Central, our regional economic development plan, is about strengthening the sense of place that makes people want to live, work, and visit here,&#8221; said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. &#8220;This sign is a small but meaningful way to celebrate Lancaster&#8217;s identity and give visitors a warm welcome as they arrive.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis new welcome sign is more than a marker at the entrance to our community,\u201d said Town Administrator John Woodsmall. \u201cIt reflects the pride we have in our town and the warm welcome we want to extend to residents, businesses, and visitors alike. We\u2019re pleased to see this project completed and grateful to the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce for helping to bring it to life.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In addition to Lancaster, similar welcome signs have been installed at key gateways in Fitchburg, Gardner, Groton, Hubbardston, Leominster, Lunenburg, Pepperell, Sterling and Westminster. Each sign is carved with the community\u2019s seal and painted to match their official colors. Additional signs will be constructed for other communities in North Central Massachusetts as funding becomes available.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24642 post-loop-5 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24642 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/ncpa-collegiate-pickleball-tour-comes-to-west-boylston-massachusetts\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: NCPA Collegiate Pickleball Tour Comes to West Boylston, Massachusetts\">NCPA Collegiate Pickleball Tour Comes to West Boylston, Massachusetts<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-09-03T08:47:29-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 3rd<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>The Massachusetts Regional Championship brings the country&#8217;s top college programs to RT.12 Pickle on September 26-27, 2026 \u2014 with bids to the NCPA National Championship on the line<\/p>\n<p>West Boylston, Massachusetts \u2014 College pickleball&#8217;s fastest-rising programs are heading to West Boylston. On September 26-27, 2026, the National Collegiate Pickleball Association (NCPA) brings the Massachusetts Regional Championship to RT.12 Pickle \u2014 20 to 30 universities and roughly 300 collegiate athletes competing across two days, with bids to the NCPA National Championship on the line.<\/p>\n<p>Twelve bids will be decided at RT.12 Pickle. Where a team finishes determines which division it enters at Nationals, and every match swings national ranking points that follow these programs all season. Expect packed courts, student sections, and matches that come down to the last point.<\/p>\n<p>The event is part of the NCPA Tour presented by VAIR, a 14-stop national season ending at the NCPA National Championship in Virginia Beach in April 2027. NCPA spans 150 universities and more than 5,000 athletes and has awarded over $100,000 in prize money across the season. Matches are broadcast on PickleTV and on YouTube at @ncpapickleball.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;College pickleball is growing faster than any avenue in pickleball, and we&#8217;re still at the very beginning of it. Bringing the Massachusetts Regional Championship to RT.12 Pickle in West Boylston is exactly the kind of stage these athletes deserve. We&#8217;ll see you there.&#8221; \u2014 Noah Suemnick, Founder &amp; CEO, National Collegiate Pickleball Association<br \/>\n&#8220;Hosting the NCPA event at RT.12 Pickle is an exciting opportunity to showcase the sport to the next generation of athletes and introduce college students to a growing, energetic community.<\/p>\n<p>As the sport continues to trend younger, we\u2019re excited to bring that energy to the Central Massachusetts area, connect with younger generations, and inspire more students and athletes to get involved and help shape the future of the sport.\u201d<br \/>\n\u2014 Ben Minsk, Founder &amp; CEO, RT.12 Pickle<br \/>\nRT.12 Pickle is an NCPA Preferred Venue.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24583 post-loop-6 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24583 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/governor-healey-awards-6-million-to-drive-business-expansion-create-1000-jobs-across-massachusetts\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Governor Healey\u00a0Awards $6 Million to\u00a0Drive\u00a0Business Expansion,\u00a0Create\u00a01,000 Jobs Across Massachusetts\">Governor Healey\u00a0Awards $6 Million to\u00a0Drive\u00a0Business Expansion,\u00a0Create\u00a01,000 Jobs Across Massachusetts<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-08-31T09:10:51-04:00\" >Posted on agosto 31st<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>Governor Healey\u00a0Awards $6 Million to\u00a0Drive\u00a0Business Expansion,\u00a0Create\u00a01,000 Jobs Across Massachusetts<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>Business Builds Grants\u00a0will support six capital projects in manufacturing, robotics, life sciences, autonomous systems and\u00a0other key industries<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>BOSTON<\/strong>\u00a0&#8211;\u00a0Governor Healey\u00a0today announced\u00a0$6 million in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mass.gov\/info-details\/business-builds-capital-grant-program\">Business Builds Capital Grants<\/a>\u00a0to support six major business expansion projects across Massachusetts.\u00a0The\u00a0projects\u00a0will\u00a0leverage\u00a0more than $300 million in private investment,\u00a0create an expected 1,000 new jobs, and\u00a0will help companies expand facilities, modernize equipment,\u00a0and advance\u00a0industry-leading\u00a0technologies.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cCompanies are choosing Massachusetts to grow, invest\u00a0and create jobs because of our talented workforce and our leadership in innovation,\u201d said <strong>Governor Maura Healey<\/strong>. \u201cThrough Business Builds,\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0partnering with companies that are making major investments in our state and helping them put down deeper roots here. These projects will create 1,000 new jobs and strengthen communities across Massachusetts.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBusiness Builds is about turning private investment into tangible benefits for our communities,\u201d said <strong>Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll<\/strong>. \u201cBy partnering with companies that are ready to grow,\u00a0we\u2019re\u00a0supporting new jobs, stronger local economies, and investment in communities across Massachusetts.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Established through the Mass Leads Act, the Business Builds Capital Grant Program is administered by the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) within the Executive Office of Economic Development. The program provides targeted capital grants to help businesses grow,\u00a0relocate, create jobs, and make qualified investments in Massachusetts facilities.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFrom established manufacturers to companies developing cutting-edge robotics and autonomous systems, these projects reflect the range of innovative businesses investing and growing in Massachusetts,\u201d said <strong>Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley<\/strong>. \u201cBy supporting these investments, we\u2019re helping companies expand their presence in the state\u00a0while creating new opportunities for\u00a0talent\u00a0and strengthening the industries that drive our economy.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Business Builds supports the Healey-Driscoll Administration\u2019s broader strategy to strengthen the\u00a0state\u2019s\u00a0economic competitiveness while directing public resources toward projects that provide clear public benefits. The program works alongside existing economic development tools, including the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mass.gov\/info-details\/economic-development-incentive-program-edip\">Economic Development Incentive Program<\/a>, by supporting facility and equipment investments that drive job creation, regional growth, and private-sector investment.\u00a0Awardees are\u00a0required\u00a0to provide a dollar-for-dollar match for grant funds.\u00a0Through Business Builds, EOED\u00a0seeks\u00a0to support business attraction and retention across\u00a0Massachusetts, including in Gateway Cities, rural communities, and underutilized or redevelopment areas.<\/p>\n<p>Awarded projects\u00a0for the May 2026 round\u00a0include:<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Boston Dynamics, Waltham &#8211; $1.25 million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Boston Dynamics develops advanced mobile robotics used in inspection, warehouse automation, and industrial applications. The $1.25 million award will support\u00a0the\u00a0renovation and buildout of approximately 330,000 square feet\u00a0of space\u00a0in Waltham for robotics manufacturing, training, research and development, and related operations, including work related to the\u00a0company\u2019s\u00a0Spot and Stretch platforms. The project will expand advanced manufacturing capacity and support\u00a0Boston Dynamic\u2019s plan to create 650 new full-time jobs in Massachusetts over the next three years, while keeping the company\u2019s innovation-to-manufacturing value chain in the\u00a0state\u00a0and incorporating energy-efficiency upgrades.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>SMC Ltd., Devens &#8211; $1.25 million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>SMC Ltd. is a global medical device manufacturer and development partner serving original equipment manufacturers in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors. The $1.25 million award will support\u00a0the\u00a0renovation of SMC\u2019s existing 330,000-square-foot Devens facility and construction of a new 100,000-square-foot building, including high-efficiency HVAC systems, insulated building panels, injection molding machines, and power systems. The expansion is expected to create 190 new full-time jobs and\u00a0retain\u00a0440 existing jobs in Massachusetts, while helping SMC increase production capacity with more efficient building systems and manufacturing equipment.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Autonodyne\u00a0LLC, Boston &#8211; $1 million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Autonodyne\u00a0is a software company developing collaborative autonomy, command-and-control, and human-machine teaming solutions across air, sea, and land systems. The $1 million award will support construction and equipment for the Autonomy Advancement and Demonstration Center, a 6,500-square-foot demonstration lab and classroom with simulator stations, secure collaboration space, IT systems, demonstration cockpits, and training areas. The project is expected to create 97\u00a0new\u00a0competitive\u00a0wage jobs, strengthen a local workforce pipeline through internships and training\u00a0partnerships,\u00a0\u00a0and\u00a0incorporate high-efficiency HVAC, LED lighting, low-VOC materials\u00a0and Energy Star or EPEAT Gold-certified equipment.\u00a0The company\u00a0anticipates\u00a0in will\u00a0source most project work from Massachusetts-based vendors.<\/p>\n<p><strong>CBSET\u00a0Inc., Waltham &#8211; $1 million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>CBSET is a preclinical translational research institute that supports life sciences companies developing drugs, medical devices, and other medical innovations. The $1 million award will support CBSET\u2019s relocation and expansion from Lexington to Waltham through the renovation of a 104,000-square-foot building with laboratories, procedure rooms, operating rooms, offices, and upgraded building controls for air handling and HVAC systems. The project is expected to create 75 new jobs over the next three years, expand capacity for Massachusetts life sciences companies, and reduce historic building energy usage by an estimated 30 to 40 percent through a new building automation system and HVAC controls.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Helfrich Bros. Boiler Works\u00a0Inc., Lawrence &#8211; $1 million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Helfrich Bros. Boiler Works is a family-owned Lawrence manufacturer of commercial boilers and ASME pressure vessels used in heating and industrial applications, including systems serving renewable energy customers. The $1 million award will\u00a0help\u00a0the company\u00a0acquire\u00a0land\u00a0adjacent\u00a0to\u00a0\u00a0its\u00a0existing Lawrence site and\u00a0construct\u00a0a new 65,000-square-foot manufacturing facility with cranes, welding equipment, an automated paint booth, and a testing station. The project is expected to create at least 30 new jobs with competitive wages and benefits, increase the company\u2019s welding school and apprenticeship capacity, support local suppliers, and\u00a0redevelop a long-underutilized site near the proposed Merrimack Rail Trail.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Entegris\u00a0Inc., Billerica &#8211; $500,000<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Entegris develops filtration, purification, and materials-handling products used by semiconductor manufacturers in advanced chip production.\u00a0The $500,000 award will\u00a0help\u00a0the\u00a0company\u00a0purchase\u00a0and install\u00a0manufacturing, handling, cleaning, inspection, and cleanroom equipment and\u00a0make\u00a0upgrades at its Billerica site to expand advanced filter production. The project will support the long-term retention of a 485-person Billerica workforce, strengthen Massachusetts\u2019 semiconductor supply chain, and support filtration technologies that can reduce semiconductor rework, water use, chemical use, and wastewater impacts.<\/p>\n\n<p>MOBD is currently accepting applications for the next round of Business Builds. The deadline for\u00a0applications is September 30, 2026.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>About the Massachusetts Office of Business Development <\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mass.gov\/orgs\/massachusetts-office-of-business-development\">Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD)<\/a>\u00a0within the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED)\u00a0assists\u00a0businesses expanding in and\u00a0relocating\u00a0to Massachusetts, with specific attention paid to projects that create and\u00a0retain\u00a0jobs and invest capital. MOBD administers the Economic Development Incentive Program. The MOBD team provides a highly responsive,\u00a0central point\u00a0of contact that\u00a0facilitates\u00a0access to resources,\u00a0expertise, and incentive programs for businesses. The MOBD team is part of EOED\u2019s effort to connect businesses with resources through the Business Front Door at <a href=\"https:\/\/mass.gov\/bfd\">www.mass.gov\/bfd<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24585 post-loop-7 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24585 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/exclusive-no-cost-ldi-training-for-chamber-members-2\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Exclusive No-Cost LDI Training for Chamber Members\">Exclusive No-Cost LDI Training for Chamber Members<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-08-25T09:36:01-04:00\" >Posted on agosto 25th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Chamber News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-olk-copy-source=\"MessageBody\">Dear Members,<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">As a Chamber member, you know strong community partnerships fuel business growth. This offer is exclusive to Chamber members and delivers real value. This year, you can build your team\u2019s leadership and productivity skills at no cost to your company!<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">Our Workplace Productivity and Workplace Leadership &amp; Coaching programs prepare your team to lead with clarity, achieve goals, and fuel your success in 2026. The training is hands-on, built for real challenges, and focused on measurable results.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">Here is why this is an easy decision:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\" role=\"presentation\" data-ogsc=\"\">Chamber members receive a 20 percent discount, saving $750.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\" role=\"presentation\" data-ogsc=\"\">Massachusetts companies with 100 employees or fewer can qualify for up to $3,000 in tuition reimbursement per person through the State Express Training Grant (with a company cap of $15,000).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">Together, these benefits cover the full cost of training for eligible members. This is a rare chance to strengthen your team and sharpen execution for the new year without touching your budget.\u00a0<\/span>Cohort seats<span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">\u00a0are limited, and the state grant deadline is approaching.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">Your 2026 goals need leaders who think clearly, act with purpose, and deliver results. Enroll key team members now in<a title=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/12xDYm48eJeqCXQH5lZxCCoXjYVV6xYImI3onxXU4My8\/edit?usp=sharing\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/12xDYm48eJeqCXQH5lZxCCoXjYVV6xYImI3onxXU4My8\/edit?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" data-outlook-id=\"cc71d1f2-be11-4c5d-9af3-e3d4380bf67a\" data-linkindex=\"7\" data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">\u00a0<\/a><\/span><a title=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/12xDYm48eJeqCXQH5lZxCCoXjYVV6xYImI3onxXU4My8\/edit?usp=sharing\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/12xDYm48eJeqCXQH5lZxCCoXjYVV6xYImI3onxXU4My8\/edit?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" data-outlook-id=\"c3279e4a-6f9c-4e79-9fb8-ec46253ffa52\" data-linkindex=\"8\" data-ogsc=\"\"><u data-ogsc=\"\">Workplace Productivity<\/u><\/a><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(17, 85, 204)\"><u data-ogsc=\"\">\u00a0<\/u><\/span><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">and<a title=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/11P-4-OxkIm18apH-5zEKxnZFuNkKp9theCtBGLyqNIc\/edit?usp=sharing\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/11P-4-OxkIm18apH-5zEKxnZFuNkKp9theCtBGLyqNIc\/edit?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" data-outlook-id=\"f4f8edd4-85f0-4c0d-b3bf-a9d13118a74e\" data-linkindex=\"9\" data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">\u00a0<\/a><\/span><a title=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/11P-4-OxkIm18apH-5zEKxnZFuNkKp9theCtBGLyqNIc\/edit?usp=sharing\" href=\"https:\/\/docs.google.com\/document\/d\/11P-4-OxkIm18apH-5zEKxnZFuNkKp9theCtBGLyqNIc\/edit?usp=sharing\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" data-outlook-id=\"790fd7b3-3c4c-49d7-ac8f-5e4ceaa8a40b\" data-linkindex=\"10\" data-ogsc=\"\"><u data-ogsc=\"\">Workplace Leadership &amp; Coaching<\/u><\/a><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">\u00a0and secure the talent your organization needs to win.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">For more information, contact\u00a0<\/span><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(17, 85, 204)\"><a title=\"mailto:admin@leadershipdynamicsinc.com\" href=\"mailto:admin@leadershipdynamicsinc.com\" data-outlook-id=\"b3701502-b539-43a6-8dcd-ff9c08a6e5ed\" data-linkindex=\"11\" data-ogsc=\"\">admin@leadershipdynamicsinc.com<\/a><\/span><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(0, 0, 0)\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\">With care,<\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\">Paul<\/p>\n<p class=\"x_gmail_quote\"><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(13, 13, 13)\">Sign-up link:<\/span><span data-ogsc=\"rgb(13, 13, 13)\">\u00a0<\/span><a title=\"https:\/\/www.leadershipdynamicsinc.com\/\" href=\"https:\/\/www.leadershipdynamicsinc.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" data-auth=\"NotApplicable\" data-outlook-id=\"0b4e8425-a45d-40f5-acc5-9b8f62d4c5ba\" data-linkindex=\"12\" data-ogsc=\"\"><u data-ogsc=\"\">https:\/\/www.leadershipdynamicsinc.com\/<\/u><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24568 post-loop-8 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24568 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/pro-ppa-and-mlp-star-connor-garnett-to-lead-pickleball-clinics-in-massachusetts-and-new-hampshire-this-november\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Pro PPA and MLP Star Connor Garnett to Lead Pickleball Clinics in Massachusetts and New Hampshire This November\">Pro PPA and MLP Star Connor Garnett to Lead Pickleball Clinics in Massachusetts and New Hampshire This November<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-08-21T09:03:44-04:00\" >Posted on agosto 21st<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>Garnett will host clinics, meet-and-greets, and pro play events at The Picklr in Seabrook, New Hampshire, and RT. 12\u00a0Pickle in West Boylston, Massachusetts.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>West Boylston, MA\u2014July 16, 2026 <\/strong>\u2014 DiPietro Pickleball\u00a0Consulting is excited to announce that Connor Garnett, one of professional pickleball&#8217;s premier athletes, will visit New England\u00a0November 13\u201315, 2026. Garnett will split his time between The\u00a0Picklr in Seabrook, New Hampshire, and RT.12 Pickle in West\u00a0Boylston, Massachusetts, where he will participate in meet-and greet sessions, instructional clinics, and pro play events. Specific\u00a0dates and schedules for each club will be announced soon.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A Rare Opportunity for New England Players<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-24569 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-300x200.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-1030x686.jpeg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-768x512.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-1536x1024.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-18x12.jpeg 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-1500x1000.jpeg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9-705x470.jpeg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/THE-PPA-FINALS_CONNOR-X-RILEY_MD-SEMIS-9.jpeg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Garnett&#8217;s November visit offers players throughout the region a unique opportunity to learn from one of the sport&#8217;s most dynamic and respected professionals. Both The Picklr Seabrook and RT.12 Pickle will release clinic schedules, registration details, and fan event information as soon as dates and times are finalized.<\/p>\n<p><strong>A Top PPA and MLP Athlete<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Garnett&#8217;s rise in professional pickleball has been nothing short of remarkable. A former Division I tennis standout at Santa Clara University and a former hitting partner for Novak Djokovic, he has become known for his explosive athleticism, lightning-fast hands, and his signature &#8220;Twoey&#8221; backhand\u2014one of the most dangerous shots on the professional tour.<\/p>\n<p>He made an immediate impact on the professional pickleball\u00a0scene, earning silver medals in both singles and doubles at his\u00a0first professional tournament. Since then, he has established\u00a0himself among the sport&#8217;s elite, with accomplishments that\u00a0include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>PPA career-high ranking of <strong>No. 3 in Men&#8217;s Singles <\/strong>(2024 and 2025)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Five-time PPA Gold Medalist <\/strong>(three singles, one\u00a0doubles, and one mixed doubles titles)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Top 10 DUPR doubles rating <\/strong>in both 2025 and 2026 <strong>A World-Class Coach and Instructor\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Beyond competition, Garnett is an internationally recognized\u00a0coach who has worked with high-profile athletes and celebrities. His instruction combines elite-level strategy with an approachable,\u00a0modern teaching style. He also leads a thriving online learning\u00a0community through his YouTube channel and his Skool-based\u00a0 coaching platform, <strong>Twoey Lab<\/strong>, where players from around the\u00a0world access his training methods, strategic insights, and personalized improvement programs.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about Connor Garnett and his coaching at <strong><u><a href=\"http:\/\/www.connorgarnett.com\">www.connorgarnett.com<\/a><\/u><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>Garnett&#8217;s New England appearance is proudly sponsored by <strong>DiPietro Pickleball Consulting<\/strong>, whose mission is to assist\u00a0indoor pickleball clubs operationally and to bring world-class\u00a0pickleball experiences to players throughout the region.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Media Contact\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Deb DiPietro\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>DiPietro Pickleball Consulting<\/p>\n<p>Email: <u><a href=\"mailto:dbinder96@gmail.com\">dbinder96@gmail.com<\/a>\u00a0<\/u><\/p>\n<p><strong>About DiPietro Pickleball Consulting\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>DiPietro Pickleball Consulting provides pickleball consulting\u00a0services to indoor pickleball clubs in the New England and Florida\u00a0markets, ranging from revenue modeling, to programming and\u00a0scheduling. It also partners with pickleball clubs, facilities, and\u00a0organizations throughout New England and Florida to create exceptional player experiences through professional clinics,\u00a0exhibitions, tournaments, and special events. The company is\u00a0committed to help grow the sport by assisting clubs in being\u00a0successful and by connecting players with some of the world&#8217;s top\u00a0 professional talent.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24582 post-loop-9 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24582 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/annual-river-city-rhythm-rock-festival\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Annual River City Rhythm &#038; Rock Festival\">Annual River City Rhythm &#038; Rock Festival<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-08-17T12:30:50-04:00\" >Posted on agosto 17th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>On <strong>Saturday, August 29, Riverfront Park in Fitchburg will come alive for the 5th Annual River City Rhythm &amp; Rock Festival.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Five years ago, this festival began with a simple idea: create a place where local artists could be heard, small businesses and makers could be seen, and neighbors could come together and feel connected to their community. What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a <strong>f<\/strong>ree, all-ages celebration featuring more than 40 local artists and welcoming 1,500+ neighbors, friends, and families.<\/p>\n<p>Reaching year five feels especially meaningful. Not simply because the festival has grown, but because the community has grown around it.<\/p>\n<p>Every performer who takes the stage, every vendor who sets up a table, every volunteer who gives their time, every sponsor who believes in the mission, and every family that spreads out a blanket and stays for the music has helped make River City what it is.<\/p>\n<p>Events like this don&#8217;t happen because of one organization or one person. They happen because people decide that art, music, creativity, and gathering together are worth investing in. The generosity of this community helps provide professional stages and sound, a safe and welcoming environment, and\u2014importantly\u2014fair pay for the artists whose talent makes the festival what it is.<\/p>\n<p>So this month, instead of reflecting on something that&#8217;s already happened, we&#8217;re celebrating something we&#8217;re still building together.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Five years of music. Five years of creativity. Five years of community.<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>We hope you&#8217;ll join us on <strong>August 29 from 2\u201310 PM at Riverfront Park in Fitchburg<\/strong> and help us make year five one to remember.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24531 post-loop-10 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24531 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/north-central-massachusetts-chamber-launches-lider-to-connect-regions-fastest-growing-entrepreneur-segment\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: North Central Massachusetts Chamber Launches LIDER to Connect Region\u2019s Fastest-Growing Entrepreneur Segment\">North Central Massachusetts Chamber Launches LIDER to Connect Region\u2019s Fastest-Growing Entrepreneur Segment<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-08-05T08:44:30-04:00\" >Posted on agosto 5th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Chamber News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>New Latino Business Council Responds to Surging Entrepreneurship and Persistent Gaps in Access to Capital and Networks.<\/p>\n<p>(North Central Massachusetts) &#8211; The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce officially launched LIDER, the Chamber\u2019s new Latino Business Council, at a kick-off event held Tuesday, July 8, 2026 at the Chamber offices in Fitchburg. LIDER &#8211; which stands for Latino Initiative for Development of Entrepreneurship and Resources &#8211; is designed to connect Latino entrepreneurs and business leaders across the region to the networks, capital, education, and opportunities they need to grow their businesses and strengthen the regional economy.<br \/>\n<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-24532 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-300x225.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-1030x773.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-16x12.jpg 16w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-1500x1125.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5-705x529.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/LIDER-5.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>LIDER is a program of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, operating alongside established councils including the Manufacturing Council, HR Council, Women\u2019s Leadership Connection, and Future Leaders Group. Members who join through LIDER gain access to the full breadth of the Chamber\u2019s network of 650+ businesses, 27 communities, and more than five decades of regional relationships, along with a community within it that reflects the Latino business experience.<\/p>\n<p>The name was chosen deliberately. In Spanish, &#8220;l\u00edder&#8221; means leader and is pronounced exactly like the English word. The initiative is designed to do precisely that: develop leaders, business leaders, community leaders, and the next generation of voices shaping the economic future of North Central Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p>The initiative comes at a moment of significant momentum for Latino entrepreneurship. Latinos represent more than 30 percent of the population in Fitchburg and approximately 18 percent in Leominster, well above the statewide average of 12.6 percent. Latino entrepreneurs are also starting businesses at three times the rate of the general population. Nationally, Latino-owned businesses grew 44 percent between 2018 and 2023, even as the number of white-owned businesses slightly declined. Despite that growth, Latino-owned businesses continue to face significant and persistent gaps in access to capital and networks, barriers that LIDER is designed to help address.<\/p>\n<p>The stakes extend beyond the Latino business community. Latino entrepreneurs in this region are potential customers, suppliers, vendors, and workforce partners for every Chamber member. Closing the gaps in access to capital and networks is not just an equity issue. It is an economic growth issue for the entire region.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe Latino business community is not new to us, and we are not new to them,\u201d said Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM, President &amp; CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. \u201cLIDER is about formalizing and deepening that relationship, creating a dedicated home within the Chamber where Latino entrepreneurs can connect, grow, and lead. The talent and drive are already here. LIDER gives it a place to go.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Maribel Cruz, Chair of the LIDER steering committee and Director of Housing and Development for the City of Fitchburg, helped guide the formation of the council. Cruz has spent her career at the intersection of economic development, community revitalization, and small business support, including years working directly with the Chamber\u2019s North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cLIDER represents an important step toward greater Latino representation within our business community. The Chamber\u2019s support, leadership, and network create opportunities for the Latino community to become more connected and engaged in all that the Chamber offers while helping Latino entrepreneurs and businesses grow and thrive,\u201d said Maribel Cruz, Chair of the LIDER steering committee.<\/p>\n<p>LIDER\u2019s programming will focus on the practical needs of Latino business owners at every stage of growth, including networking events, workshops on financial literacy and access to capital, and professional development on topics such as government procurement and business growth strategies. The initiative is also designed to serve as a welcoming front door to the Chamber for Latino entrepreneurs who may not yet be members.<\/p>\n<p>The July 8 kick-off drew Latino business owners and professionals, Chamber members, community and civic leaders, and elected officials to the Chamber offices in Fitchburg for the official launch announcement and a networking reception. Latino business owners, businesses looking to connect with the Latino business community, and others interested in LIDER are encouraged to visit northcentralmass.com, where a dedicated LIDER webpage with programming details, membership information, and upcoming events will be available as the council continues to build out its programming.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24547 post-loop-11 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24547 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-member-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/united-way-of-north-central-ma-in-partnership-with-heywood-healthcare-awarded-state-grant-to-expand-child-care-access-strengthen-workforce-in-north-central-massachusetts\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: United Way of North Central MA in Partnership with Heywood Healthcare Awarded State Grant to Expand Child Care Access, Strengthen Workforce in North Central Massachusetts\">United Way of North Central MA in Partnership with Heywood Healthcare Awarded State Grant to Expand Child Care Access, Strengthen Workforce in North Central Massachusetts<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-07-31T08:55:03-04:00\" >Posted on julio 31st<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/member-news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Member News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong><em>Gardner, MA &#8211; June 16, 2026 &#8211; <\/em><\/strong><em>The United Way of North Central Massachusetts has been selected as a recipient of the Commonwealth Employer Childcare Innovation Fund (ECCIF) in partnership with Heywood Healthcare, the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, and Upwards. ECCIF is a competitive statewide initiative announced by the Healey-Driscoll Administration.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>The funding will support a regional effort to expand access to affordable, reliable child care, one of the most significant barriers to workforce participation in North Central Massachusetts. Through this initiative, Heywood Healthcare will provide fully subsidized child care for employees with the greatest financial need while working with community partners to build long-term, sustainable solutions.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>As a 24\/7 healthcare provider and one of the largest employers in North Central Massachusetts, Heywood Healthcare has spent years analyzing workforce challenges. Internal data revealed that child care is a leading factor impacting attendance, retention, and recruitment. Across Massachusetts, the urgency of this issue is further underscored by the Economic Policy Institute, which reports the average annual cost of infant care at $26,709.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cAccess to affordable, reliable child care is one of the most significant challenges facing our workforce today,\u201d said Rozanna Penney, President and CEO of Heywood Healthcare. \u201cI have seen the incredible people of Heywood Healthcare face impossible choices, not because of a lack of dedication, but because child care has become unaffordable and out of reach. Too often, employees are forced to step away from the workforce because they cannot make ends meet. With an overwhelming majority of our workforce made up of women, many balancing work and family responsibilities, this is deeply personal to our organization. This is also a regional economic issue, impacting our ability to recruit and retain a strong healthcare workforce. We are grateful for this investment, which will allow us to fully subsidize child care for those with the greatest financial need and better support our employees and community.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>The initiative is supported by a generous matching gift from a private donor through the North Central Massachusetts Foundation and reflects more than three years of collaboration through the Employers &amp; Childcare Coalition of North Central Massachusetts. Together, partners will \u00a0implement employer-supported child care solutions that include direct financial assistance, coordination with local providers to increase capacity, and technology to better connect employees with available care.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Through a platform powered by Upwards, employees will be connected with licensed child care providers based on location, schedule, and availability, while the program also supports placement, enrollment, and administration of tuition subsidies. Data gathered through the platform will help partners identify gaps in care and work with providers to expand services where they are needed most.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Regional partners emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing this challenge.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cAccess to affordable, high-quality childcare is essential to the strength of our workforce, the success of our families, and the future of our communities,\u201d said Kory Eng, President &amp; CEO of United Way of North Central Massachusetts. \u201cUnited Way of North Central Massachusetts is proud to partner with the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts and Heywood Healthcare to address one of our region\u2019s most pressing challenges. Together, we are investing in solutions that expand childcare capacity, support providers, and create more opportunities for children and working families throughout North Central Massachusetts.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cAll of us have a stake in solving the childcare crisis facing working families,\u201d said Steve Adams, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts. \u201cWe believe that this partnership with the United Way, Heywood Healthcare, their employees, and the Commonwealth has the potential to be a game-changer for working families and employers across Massachusetts.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>This work builds on more than three years of regional collaboration through the Employers &amp; Childcare Coalition of North Central Massachusetts, which brings together employers, providers, and community stakeholders to develop sustainable, scalable solutions. The coalition has researched national best practices, engaged local families and providers, and developed tools such as a return-on-investment model to demonstrate the value of employer investment in child care.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cIn preparation for this opportunity, the Employers &amp; Childcare Coalition of North Central Mass have been working for three years reviewing best employer-supported childcare practices tailored for the unique needs of our region,\u201d said LeaAnn Scales, Project Director of the Employers &amp; Childcare Coalition of North Central Mass. \u201cThe expertise and support provided by our employers and providers was critical to informing the process.\u201d <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cFor the past three years, our research of innovative shared funding childcare models from across the country position us well for success on this grant,\u201d said Kat Deal, Project Analyst\/Coordinator of the Employers &amp; Childcare Coalition of North Central Mass.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cCollaborating with technology partners and industry experts to create real childcare solutions for working families while strengthening our regional workforce is so rewarding.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Technology partners also emphasized the importance of data and scalable solutions in addressing child care access.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u201cShared-funding child care works when several things come together: families reliably connected to care, providers supported so supply can grow, funding coordinated across every partner, and rigorous measurement of what\u2019s working. Upwards administers these programs across the country, and we\u2019re proud to bring that experience to North Central Massachusetts. By pairing the region\u2019s years of research with real-time data on utilization, access, and outcomes, this partnership can serve families today and help show what\u2019s possible for child care across the Commonwealth. We\u2019re grateful to the Commonwealth Corporation, the Department of Early Education and Care, United Way of North Central Massachusetts, Heywood Healthcare, and the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts for coming together around a shared commitment to supporting families and building a resilient workforce,\u201d said Jessica Chang, Co-Founder and CEO of Upwards.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>The ECCIF program is designed to test innovative models that expand access to affordable, high-quality child care while building capacity within the sector. Priority is given to initiatives that support workers in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, expand access in underserved areas, and benefit families with the greatest need.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Additional details on program implementation will be shared as the initiative progresses.<\/em><\/p>\n\n<p><strong><em>About Heywood Healthcare:<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>Heywood Healthcare is a non-profit, community-owned health system serving north central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. The system includes Heywood Hospital, a 134-bed acute care hospital in Gardner, MA; Athol Hospital, a 25-bed Critical Access hospital in Athol, MA; Heywood Medical Group; and multiple regional satellite facilities.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Heywood Hospital and Athol Hospital provide a full range of inpatient and outpatient services, including emergency care, surgery, imaging, rehabilitation, and specialty services. Heywood Medical Group, a non-profit physician organization with more than 75 providers, delivers primary and specialty care across a broad range of disciplines.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Together, the system provides coordinated, patient-centered care focused on expanding access and improving health outcomes across the region. Our mission is To be our region\u2019s first choice for quality, compassionate, patient-centered care. heywood.org<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><em>About United Way of North Central Massachusetts<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>United Way of North Central Massachusetts\u2019 mission is to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of our community to advance the common good. We focus on three foundational blocks to a better life: education, health, and financial stability. Through the support of volunteers and donors, we create positive, lasting change across the 22 communities we call home. <a href=\"https:\/\/uwncm.org\/\">https:\/\/uwncm.org\/<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><em>About The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>The Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, is the leading community foundation in the region, managing charitable funds established by individuals, families, businesses and other non-profit organizations.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>The Foundation promotes philanthropy in the region and helps philanthropists invest in the communities and causes they care about.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>In addition, the Foundation makes grants to local nonprofits in the areas of the childcare, environment and animal welfare, education and career readiness, community enrichment, organizational development, racial equity and community health. cfncm.org<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><em>About Upwards<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>Upwards is a whole-family care platform with a mission to make quality child care and elder care accessible and affordable for working families nationwide. The company connects families with licensed, vetted caregivers, helps them afford care through government subsidies and workplace benefits, and powers care benefit programs for employers and governments at scale, <\/em><em>including state-funded child care programs in California and Utah and programs serving military families through the Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve. Founded in 2017 and led by Founder and CEO Jessica Chang, Upwards has supported over 3 million families. Learn more at upwards.com.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong><em>This project is funded by a grant from the Employer Child Care Innovation Fund (ECCIF), a pilot program designed by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) in collaboration with the Executive Office of Education (EOE), the Executive Office of Economic Development (EOED), the Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development (EOLWD), and Commonwealth Corporation, and funded by the Massachusetts Legislature and the Healey-Driscoll Administration. The grant program is administered by Commonwealth Corporation Foundation.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><article class='post-entry post-entry-type-standard post-entry-24478 post-loop-12 post-parity-even post-entry-last bloglist-compact with-slider post-24478 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-news'  itemscope=\"itemscope\" itemtype=\"https:\/\/schema.org\/BlogPosting\" ><div class='blog-meta'><\/div><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix standard-content'><header class=\"entry-content-header\"><h2 class='post-title entry-title '  itemprop=\"headline\" ><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/eric-chouinard-recognized-for-outstanding-leadership-of-connect-north-central-networking-program\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Eric Chouinard recognized for outstanding leadership of Connect North Central networking program\">Eric Chouinard recognized for outstanding leadership of Connect North Central networking program<span class=\"post-format-icon minor-meta\"><\/span><\/a><\/h2><span class='post-meta-infos'><time class='date-container minor-meta updated'  itemprop=\"datePublished\" datetime=\"2026-07-30T09:21:57-04:00\" >Posted on julio 30th<\/time><span class='text-sep text-sep-date'>\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-categories minor-meta\">in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/category\/news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Chamber News<\/a> <\/span><span class=\"text-sep text-sep-cat\">\/<\/span><span class=\"blog-author minor-meta\">by <span class=\"entry-author-link\"  itemprop=\"author\" ><span class=\"vcard author\"><span class=\"fn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/author\/northcentralmass\/\" rel=\"author\">northcentralmass<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><em data-wp-editing=\"1\">Chouinard honored at North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting for exceptional service as program chairperson<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>\u00a0<\/em><em>North Central, Mass.\u2014<\/em> Eric Chouinard, Financial Advisor at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.edwardjones.com\/us-en\/financial-advisor\/eric-chouinard\">Edward Jones<\/a> in Gardner, was recognized for his exceptional leadership as outgoing chairperson of the Chamber\u2019s Connect North Central networking program during the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/\">North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce<\/a> 42nd Annual Meeting on June 11, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Connect North Central is the Chamber&#8217;s monthly networking program that meets the last Friday of each month, providing opportunities for business professionals to build relationships, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that benefit the regional business community.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cEric brought incredible energy and warmth to Connect North Central this past year,\u201d said Roy Nascimento, president and CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. \u201cHe led with heart, making sure every business owner who walked into the room felt welcomed, connected, and inspired. His genuine commitment to helping others succeed embodies exactly what our Chamber is all about.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-24538\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-1030x885.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"261\" height=\"224\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-1030x885.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-300x258.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-768x660.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-1536x1319.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-14x12.jpg 14w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-1500x1288.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88-705x606.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Gov.-MauraHealey_Visit-88.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 261px) 100vw, 261px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Chouinard joined Edward Jones in 2024 and serves clients throughout Gardner and the surrounding North Central Massachusetts communities, helping them with retirement planning, income strategies, wealth strategies, and preparation for life\u2019s unexpected moments. He brings a service-first approach to his work, drawing on his prior experience in customer relations, real estate, and as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers park ranger.<\/p>\n<p>Chouinard\u2019s involvement with the Chamber extends well beyond his leadership of Connect North Central. He joined the Chamber in November 2024, shortly after launching his Edward Jones practice, and quickly became an active member of the North Central Massachusetts business community. Chouinard was also selected for the Chamber&#8217;s prestigious Community Leadership Institute, a nine-month program that develops emerging leaders through education on community issues, personal leadership development, and collaborative community projects. He was honored alongside his fellow classmates as a member of the Institute&#8217;s Class of 2026 during the same Annual Meeting. Chouinard also serves on the steering committee for Future Leaders of North Central Massachusetts (FLNC), a Chamber program that brings together young and emerging professionals from across the region to connect, grow, and engage with the local business community.<\/p>\n<p>Under Chouinard&#8217;s leadership, the Connect North Central program continued to thrive as a vital networking opportunity for Chamber members. Month after month, he created an environment where business owners felt welcomed, connected, and inspired, facilitating introductions, sparking conversations, and making sure every person in the room felt valued.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBeing involved with the Chamber and leading Connect North Central has been incredibly rewarding,\u201d said Chouinard. \u201cThere\u2019s something special about bringing business leaders together and watching new relationships and collaborations form. Our region has so many talented entrepreneurs and business owners, and programs like Connect North Central help us support each other\u2019s success.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Chouinard\u2019s impact on the program reflects his broader commitment to the North Central Massachusetts business community. His approach to\u00a0leadership, focused on connection, collaboration, and genuine support for fellow businesses, has made Connect North Central a valuable resource for networking and professional development in the region.<\/p>\n<p>The Connect North Central program continues to welcome new participants interested in expanding their professional networks and contributing to the regional business community. Business professionals interested in attending Connect North Central meetings or learning more about Chamber networking opportunities are encouraged to contact the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce at 978.353.7600 ext. 235 or visit northcentralmass.com.<\/p>\n<\/div><footer class=\"entry-footer\"><\/footer><div class='post_delimiter'><\/div><\/div><div class='post_author_timeline'><\/div><\/article><div class='bloglist-compact'><nav class='pagination'><span class='pagination-meta'>Page 1 of 201<\/span><span class='current'>1<\/span><a href='https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15\/page\/2\/' class='inactive next_page' >2<\/a><a href='https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15\/page\/3\/' class='inactive' >3<\/a><a href='https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15\/page\/2\/'>&rsaquo;<\/a><a href='https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15\/page\/201\/'>&raquo;<\/a><\/nav>\n<\/div><\/div><\/p><\/div><\/div><!--close column table wrapper. Autoclose: 1 --><\/div><\/div><\/div><!-- close content main div --><\/div><\/div><div id='after_section_2'  class='main_color av_default_container_wrap container_wrap sidebar_right'  ><div class='container av-section-cont-open' ><div class='template-page content  av-content-small alpha units'><div class='post-entry post-entry-type-page post-entry-15'><div class='entry-content-wrapper clearfix'>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-15","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>News &#187; North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/news\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"es_ES\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"News &#187; 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