{"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":"<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 avia-section-large 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custom-color-heading  avia-builder-el-7  el_before_av_blog  avia-builder-el-first'><h2 class='av-special-heading-tag'  itemprop=\"headline\"  >Todas las \u00faltimas noticias<\/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-24765 post-loop-1 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24765 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-announces-14-5-million-to-expand-career-and-technical-education-at-six-schools\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Governor Healey Announces $14.5 Million to Expand Career and Technical Education at Six Schools\">Governor Healey Announces $14.5 Million to Expand Career and Technical Education at Six Schools<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=\"2026-10-23T07:49:42-04:00\" >Posted on octubre 23rd<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><em>Announced during STEM Week, new grants will expand hands-on training opportunities for approximately 500 additional students each year<\/em><\/p>\n<p><strong>FITCHBURG <\/strong>\u2014 Governor Maura Healey today announced $14.5 million in new grants to expand career and technical education (CTE) programs at six high schools across Massachusetts, creating opportunities for approximately 500 additional students each year to gain hands-on training and prepare for good-paying jobs. The funding, awarded through the new Career and Technical Education Annex Pilot Program, will help schools build and expand training facilities and offer more programs in high-demand fields including health care, information technology, manufacturing and the skilled trades.<\/p>\n<p>The new grants build on Governor Healey\u2019s efforts to increase access to career and technical education and address growing demand from students and families. The funding will help comprehensive high schools add CTE programs, increase enrollment capacity and partner with vocational schools, employers and colleges to provide students with career-connected learning opportunities, particularly in communities where access has been limited.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cStudents across Massachusetts want more opportunities to learn a trade, gain hands-on experience and prepare for good-paying jobs, and we are delivering,\u201d said <strong>Gobernadora Maura Healey<\/strong>. \u201cWe&#8217;ve made major investments to expand career and technical education, and these new grants will create more seats and bring training programs to more high schools. We&#8217;re opening doors for students to pursue careers they&#8217;re excited about while building the skilled workforce Massachusetts needs.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\u201cCareer and technical education gives students real-world experience and a chance to discover what they&#8217;re passionate about,\u201d said <strong>Teniente Gobernadora Kim Driscoll<\/strong>. \u201cThese investments are bringing schools, employers and communities together to create more opportunities for young people to explore careers, learn valuable skills and build successful futures right here in Massachusetts.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The announcement was made at the Montachusett Vocational Partnership (MVP) Center in Fitchburg, highlighting how partnerships between comprehensive high schools and CTE schools can expand access to career training. Fitchburg Public Schools is receiving $3.5 million to establish a new Culinary Arts program through the MVP Academy, a partnership with Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School (Monty Tech) and neighboring school districts. The funding will support construction of a new 2,500-square-foot MVP Caf\u00e9, featuring a commercial teaching kitchen and student-operated restaurant, creating 42 CTE seats annually while also supporting evening and weekend workforce training opportunities for adults.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Too many students who want to pursue career and technical education have been unable to access these opportunities because programs are full or unavailable in their communities,&#8221; said <strong>Education Secretary Steve Zrike<\/strong>. &#8220;These grants will help us change that by creating more seats, modernizing learning spaces and supporting partnerships that bring hands-on STEM learning and career training to more students. The collaboration between Fitchburg Public Schools and Monty Tech is a great example of how schools can work together to expand access and create new pathways to college and careers.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The investment builds on Governor Healey&#8217;s efforts to expand access to career and technical education and create more pathways for students to college and careers. The administration <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mass.gov\/news\/governor-healey-announces-70-million-to-expand-career-technical-education-at-28-schools-add-2500-seats\">previously announced $70 million to expand career and technical education<\/a> at 28 schools across Massachusetts, creating up to 2,500 additional seats for students. Together with the new CTE Annex Pilot Program grants, these investments are helping schools increase training capacity, modernize facilities and expand access to hands-on learning opportunities that prepare students for careers in high-demand industries.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAs we celebrate STEM Week and lift up careers in STEM-related fields, we\u2019re excited to be able to offer more students access to career and technical education programs,\u201d said <strong>Elementary and Secondary Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez. <\/strong>\u201cCTE programs, whether in CTE schools or more traditional high schools, are great preparation for in-demand fields such as manufacturing, health care and information technology.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;This grant is an incredible investment in our students and the future of vocational education in North Central Massachusetts. When we created MVP Academy, our goal was simple: to provide more students with opportunities to explore careers and develop skills that will prepare them for life after high school,\u201d said <strong>Fitchburg Public Schools Superintendent Jon Thompson.<\/strong> \u201cThe addition of a Culinary Arts program is another exciting step forward in that mission. I&#8217;m incredibly proud of what we&#8217;ve accomplished through our partnership with Monty Tech, Gardner, and Narragansett, and grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for recognizing the importance of expanding these opportunities. This investment will open new doors for our students and help meet the growing workforce needs of our region.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>\u201cToday was a wonderful display of partnerships that work from schools across the Commonwealth.\u00a0 While we are certainly excited to have an opportunity to expand the MVP Academy to include a Culinary Arts training program, we are delighted to see other schools across the Commonwealth working to develop similar models of their own.\u00a0 From what we have seen, this is the most cost effective way to expand access to vocational training, while remaining true to the rigorous, comprehensive model of vocational education that Massachusetts is known for,\u201d said <strong>Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School Superintendent-Director Tom Browne<\/strong>. \u201cWatching Secretary Zrike engage with MVP students reminds us why we do this work, and how these students are engaging with learning on a new level.\u00a0 Discussing their projects, showing such great pride in their work &#8211; that is what it is all about.\u00a0 We are grateful for the continued investment in MVP Academy and students across North Central MA.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Grant recipients include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Everett High School<\/strong> \u2014 $1,014,000: To modernize and expand its Medical Assisting and Programming and Web Development programs through renovated instructional spaces, a new clinical simulation laboratory and upgraded technology. The improvements will create approximately 95 additional seats, increasing capacity from 105 to 200 students and expanding opportunities for hands-on training and industry credentials.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fitchburg High School<\/strong> \u2014 $3,500,000: To establish a new Culinary Arts program through the Montachusett Vocational Partnership (MVP) Academy, including construction of a 2,500-square-foot MVP Caf\u00e9 with a commercial teaching kitchen and student-operated restaurant. Developed in partnership with Monty Tech and neighboring school districts, the program will provide 42 vocational seats annually and support evening and weekend workforce training for adults.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Haverhill High School <\/strong>\u2014 $3,210,056: To expand Health Assisting and Information Support Services and Networking programs through approximately 3,828 square feet of new instructional space, including a health care simulation center and technology innovation laboratory. The expansion will create approximately 140 additional vocational seats and support a satellite technology repair program where students gain experience maintaining municipal technology.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Newburyport High School<\/strong> \u2014 $3,101,500: To expand Advanced Manufacturing and Health Assisting programs through specialized training facilities, including a health care laboratory and advanced manufacturing equipment for CNC machining, 3D printing and fabrication. The investment will expand access to hands-on learning and industry-recognized credentials, preparing students for careers in health care, engineering and advanced manufacturing.<\/li>\n<li><strong>North Middlesex Regional High School<\/strong> \u2014 $675,000: To establish new Public Safety and Construction Craft Laborer programs, providing hands-on training in emergency response, firefighting, law enforcement and the building trades. The programs will strengthen partnerships with employers and labor organizations and prepare students for apprenticeships, further training and careers in high-demand fields.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Watertown High School <\/strong>\u2014 $3,000,000: To establish new Carpentry and Electrical programs through specialized instructional facilities and hands-on training environments. The programs will expand access to skilled trades education and prepare students for apprenticeships and careers in construction, electrical services and related industries.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The CTE Annex Pilot Program is funded through the Fair Share surtax and supports capital improvements, facility expansions, long-term leasing of additional space and other investments needed to increase access to career and technical education. Projects are expected to be completed by June 2028.<\/p>\n<p>The announcement is part of Massachusetts STEM Week, taking place October 19\u201323, with this year&#8217;s theme, &#8220;STEM Starts Now.&#8221; The statewide celebration brings together schools, colleges, employers and community organizations to highlight STEM education and career opportunities for learners of all ages.<\/p>\n<p>The administration is also marking the second day of STEM Week with events highlighting hands-on science education and workforce development opportunities. Following the announcement in Fitchburg, Education Secretary Zrike visited Sky View Middle School in Leominster, an early adopter of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.doe.mass.edu\/stem\/ste\/openscied.html\">OpenSciEd<\/a>, to observe students participating in the curriculum. OpenSciEd is a research-based, open-source science curriculum that engages students in hands-on investigations, scientific inquiry and real-world problem-solving. Later in the day, administration officials also visited Middlesex Community College to highlight expanded Pathmaker workforce training opportunities in industries including advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence, defense, climatetech and life sciences.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Statements of Support:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Senate President Karen E. Spilka (D-Ashland):<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cCareer and technical education has the power to reshape Massachusetts. Quality education supported by grants like these can prepare our young people to fill high-paying jobs in parts of the economy where skilled workers are sorely needed. At the same time, this kind of education lifts people up and closes the opportunity gaps that divide us. I\u2019m thankful to my Senate colleagues who joined me in pushing for these investments, and I\u2019m grateful to Governor Healey and Lt. Governor Driscoll for putting this program into action.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Senator John Cronin:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cEvery student deserves the opportunity to explore their interests and see a future for themselves in a career they\u2019re excited about. I am deeply grateful to the Healey-Driscoll administration for investing in our students and supporting partnerships like the one here in Fitchburg. The new MVP Caf\u00e9 will give students the chance to put their culinary skills to work in a restaurant setting, serving their community as they learn. This investment will help young people pursue rewarding careers and contribute to a stronger local economy here in North Central.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Representative Ken Gordon, House Chair of the Joint Committee on Education:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cExpanding career and technical education programs creates opportunities for students to develop the skills and hands-on experience they need to pursue their chosen careers. These grants are an investment not only in our students\u2019 futures, but also in strengthening workforce development across the Commonwealth.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Representative Michael Kushmerek:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis $3.5 million investment for Fitchburg Public Schools will expand career and workforce training opportunities for students and adults, particularly those most marginalized in our community, while strengthening our regional economy. Thank you to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for your commitment to career and technical education and for investing in opportunities that help ensure that every single student has access to the life changing opportunities of vocational education\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Representative Margaret Scarsdale:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhen I toured the MVP Academy last year, I saw firsthand the incredible work being done to help students discover their interests and fine-tune valuable skills for their futures. I am thrilled to see these opportunities expand through the addition of a new Culinary Arts program. Career and technical education create paths to rewarding careers, and I am grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration and the partnership between Fitchburg Public Schools and Monty Tech for this investment in our students and workforce.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Representative Aaron Saunders:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis Funding has been a game changer for hundreds of families in Western Mass and provided our students the opportunity to pursue the educational path they wanted. The grant from Governor Healey not only eliminated the waitlist, but also kept our community from having to shutter a school building in the center of town. This is a win across the board.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><strong>Representative Meghan K. Kilcoyne:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Vocational education is an essential aspect of our public school system. I am excited to see expanded access to career training to better prepare individuals to enter the workforce and contribute to local communities and economies.&#8221;<\/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-24758 post-loop-2 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24758 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\/annual-legislative-and-candidates-reception-brings-employers-and-elected-officials-together-in-sterling\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Annual Legislative and Candidates Reception Brings Employers and Elected Officials Together in Sterling\">Annual Legislative and Candidates Reception Brings Employers and Elected Officials Together in Sterling<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=\"2026-10-21T13:38:17-04:00\" >Posted on octubre 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\/news\/\" rel=\"tag\">Noticias de la C\u00e1mara<\/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\/jashley\/\" rel=\"author\">Jon Ashley<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>When employers and policymakers talk face to face, good things follow. That is the idea behind the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce\u2019s annual Legislative and Candidates Reception, which returned to the Chocksett Inn in Sterling on September 24.<\/p>\n<p>Chamber members spent the evening with candidates in federal and statewide races, members of our state legislative delegation, county officials, and city and town leaders from across the Chamber\u2019s 27 communities.<\/p>\n<p>The reception\u2019s relaxed, social atmosphere gave business owners and executives the chance to connect one-on-one with the people who represent them, or hope to, and to share what\u2019s on their minds as employers in North Central Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>\u201cGovernment affairs and public policy advocacy are central to how the Chamber supports a strong, competitive business climate across the region,\u201d said <strong>Roy Nascimento<\/strong>, president and CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. \u201cThis reception gives our members direct access to the officials and candidates who shape our communities and offers an opportunity to advocate for the issues that matter to employers in our communities.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Connections like these are at the heart of the Chamber\u2019s advocacy work. When policymakers hear directly from those who invest in our communities and keep our economy moving, the entire region benefits. Thank you to every member, official, and candidate who took part. Your participation helps keep the business community and our policymakers connected.<\/p>\n<p>Special thanks to our Premier Sponsor, Mount Wachusett Community College, and our Supporting Sponsor, Open Sky Community Services.<\/p>\n<p>The Chamber\u2019s advocacy doesn\u2019t end when the reception does. To learn more about our legislative priorities, see where the Chamber stands on key issues, or find out who represents you, visit our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/government-affairs\/overview\/\">Government Affairs page<\/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-24718 post-loop-3 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24718 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\/renovated-and-expanded-fitchburg-public-library-to-open-in-june-2027\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Renovated and Expanded Fitchburg Public Library to Open in June 2027\">Renovated and Expanded Fitchburg Public Library to Open in June 2027<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=\"2026-10-13T08:15:26-04:00\" >Posted on octubre 13th<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>FITCHBURG, Mass.\u2014The renovated and expanded Fitchburg Public Library will open its doors at 610 Main St. in June 2027.<\/p>\n<p>The new date represents a delay from the original completion schedule, but the additional time will ensure the delivery of a truly transformative project. The new library will be a state-of-the-art destination for the community, offering expanded technology, improved accessibility, and vibrant programming and learning spaces designed to serve the residents of Fitchburg and the surrounding region for decades to come.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe are profoundly grateful to the city, state, and federal leaders for their vital investments and ongoing partnership throughout this project,\u201d said Fitchburg Public Library Board of Trustees Chairman Matt Bruun. \u201cTheir leadership and financial commitments have been instrumental in turning this vision into reality, preserving a historic landmark while creating a dynamic hub for lifelong learning, technology, and community connection.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>While work on the Main Street building is completed, the library\u2019s temporary quarters at 166 Boulder Drive will remain open to patrons.<\/p>\n<p>The funding mix for the building project includes a grant from the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners (MBLC), an allocation from the City of Fitchburg\u2019s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, city appropriations, and the $3.5 million <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fitchburgma.gov\/1138\/The-OWL-Capital-Campaign\">Offering<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.fitchburgma.gov\/1138\/The-OWL-Capital-Campaign\"> a World of Learning<\/a> (OWL) Capital Campaign.<\/p>\n<p>Since the renovation and expansion began, a number of factors have led to increased costs for the Fitchburg Public Library project, as well as others supported by the MBLC grant program. In response, the MBLC authorized additional funding to bring these previously approved projects to completion. As a result, in addition to the $12.5M originally granted, a further $1.4 million was awarded for the Fitchburg Public Library effort. Those escalation funds, and interest generated on the prior allocations for the project, will cover the remaining costs to bring the project to completion.<\/p>\n<p>Following substantial completion of construction this winter, crews will work on furniture, fixtures and equipment to prepare the building for the general public. The OWL Capital Campaign was launched to cover those expenses, with a goal of $3.5 million. The campaign team is proud to announce the $3.5 million target has been met.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe are grateful to the individual, corporate, and foundation donors who have recognized the impact and promise of the Fitchburg Public Library building project and thank them for investing in the future of our community,\u201d said OWL Capital Campaign Co-Chair Sharon Bernard. \u201cOur gratitude extends to the capital campaign committee members who have joined me in leading this effort by showing the transformative impact this project will have on the city of Fitchburg and the population we serve.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The OWL Campaign was also supported by a $1 million gift from the Fitchburg Public Library Board of Trustees. The donation comes from the Wallace Trust Fund, created to support future capital needs when the Library\u2019s Wallace Building was opened in 1967.<\/p>\n<p>There are still opportunities for donors to make an impact on the project and support future building needs. The Legacy of Learning campaign provides donors an opportunity to be recognized for their gift with a personalized book spine that will appear on a custom bookshelf installation\u2013created by students at Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School\u2013in the library lobby.<\/p>\n<p>Additional information on the Legacy of Learning project can be found on the Library\u2019s website at <a href=\"http:\/\/fitchburgpubliclibrary.org\">fitchburgpubliclibrary.org<\/a> and clicking on the \u201cBuilding Project.\u201d<div class=\"su-image-carousel  su-image-carousel-has-spacing su-image-carousel-crop su-image-carousel-crop-3-2 su-image-carousel-has-outline su-image-carousel-adaptive su-image-carousel-slides-style-photo su-image-carousel-controls-style-light su-image-carousel-align-center\" style=\"max-width:400px\" 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https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-1-18x10.png 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-1-1500x844.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-1-705x397.png 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><span>Render 1<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2.png 2000w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-1030x579.png 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-1536x864.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-18x10.png 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-1500x844.png 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-2-705x397.png 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\" \/><span>Render 2<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3.png 1280w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3-1030x579.png 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3-18x10.png 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Render-3-705x397.png 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px\" \/><span>Render 3<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><script id=\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee_script\">if(window.SUImageCarousel){setTimeout(function() {window.SUImageCarousel.initGallery(document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee\"))}, 0);}var su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee_script=document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee_script\");if(su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee_script){su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee_script.parentNode.removeChild(su_image_carousel_6adc2b2430fee_script);}<\/script>\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-24752 post-loop-4 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24752 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\/flnc-scholarship-golf-classic-2026\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Fore the Future Golf Classic Raises More Than $10,000 for FLNC Scholarships\">Fore the Future Golf Classic Raises More Than $10,000 for FLNC Scholarships<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=\"2026-10-12T10:46:52-04:00\" >Posted on octubre 12th<\/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\">Noticias de la C\u00e1mara<\/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\/jashley\/\" rel=\"author\">Jon Ashley<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p dir=\"ltr\">The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and its Future Leaders of North Central (FLNC) committee hosted the inaugural North Central Golf Tour Championship: Fore the Future FLNC Scholarship Golf Classic on Monday, October 5, at Oak Hill Country Club in Fitchburg.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">A field of 72 golfers signed up for an afternoon shotgun start, on-course challenges, raffles and a silent auction, followed by an evening reception. Together, players, sponsors and donors raised <strong>$10,347.58<\/strong> for the FLNC Non-Traditional Scholarship Fund, enough to fund five $2,000 scholarships for students across North Central Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\"><strong>Congratulations to our 2026 Champions<\/strong><br \/>\nThe team from Main Street Bank took first place and became the first foursome to bring home the Fore the Future FLNC Scholarship Golf Classic trophy.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\"><strong>Thank you to our sponsors<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul dir=\"ltr\">\n<li><strong>Presenting Sponsors:<\/strong> DMH Electric and Diverdi Property Solutions<\/li>\n<li><strong>Silver Sponsor:<\/strong> Fidelity Bank<\/li>\n<li><strong>Community Sponsors:<\/strong> Main Street Bank, GAMMHA, Rockland Trust, JCW Wealth Management, Kindled Planning, E.L. Harvey &amp; Sons and Pleasant Street Wealth Advisors<\/li>\n<li><strong>Cart Fleet Sponsor:<\/strong> Bin There Dump That<\/li>\n<li><strong>Signage Sponsor:<\/strong> Level Up Promotions<\/li>\n<li><strong>Hole Sponsors:<\/strong> Quinn O\u2019Connell REALTOR\u00ae, MOD Creative Studio, Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust, Workers Credit Union, Franklin Professional Associates, Sitka Creations LLC, Aspire Living and Learning, Mount Wachusett Community College, Level Up Promotions, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. and 104.5 XLO<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">We\u2019re also grateful to Oak Hill Country Club for hosting, Gallery at 759 Main for hosting our silent auction and making a generous donation to the scholarship fund, and Eagle Eye for capturing the day. Our appreciation also goes to every business that donated raffle and auction prizes, and to the volunteers, Chamber staff and FLNC committee members who made the tournament possible.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Every dollar raised supports students pursuing nontraditional educational paths and helps us invest in the next generation of leaders in our region. We hope to see you on the course next year as we continue to tee up the future, one scholarship at a time.<\/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-24713 post-loop-5 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24713 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\/fitchburg-projects-awarded-9-345-million-in-state-funding-for-housing-infrastructure-and-downtown-redevelopment\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Fitchburg Projects Awarded $9.345 Million in State Funding for Housing, Infrastructure and Downtown Redevelopment\">Fitchburg Projects Awarded $9.345 Million in State Funding for Housing, Infrastructure and Downtown Redevelopment<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=\"2026-10-06T13:28:03-04:00\" >Posted on octubre 6th<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><em>City infrastructure awards and Underutilized Properties investments will support housing production, adaptive reuse of vacant buildings and continued downtown revitalization<\/em><\/p>\n<p>FITCHBURG, MA \u2013 Fitchburg projects have been awarded a combined <strong>$9.345 million<\/strong> through the Healey-Driscoll Administration\u2019s FY27 Community One Stop for Growth, bringing significant state investment into the city for infrastructure, housing production and the redevelopment of vacant and underutilized properties.<\/p>\n<p>Of the total, $<strong>8.5 million is being awarded directly to the City of Fitchburg<\/strong> for three major infrastructure projects:<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; $5 million from the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund for the Moran Square Improvements project;<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; $2.5 million from the MassWorks Infrastructure Program to support Eleanor\u2019s Lofts at 21 Depot Street; and<\/p>\n<p>&#8211; $1 million from the MassWorks Infrastructure Program to support Main Street Lofts at 280-288 Main Street.<\/p>\n<p>An additional $845,000 in Underutilized Properties Program awards is coming to Fitchburg through MassDevelopment, including $695,000 for NewVue Communities and $150,000 for Watch Us Grow LLC, bringing the total FY27 One Stop investment in Fitchburg projects to $9.345 million.<\/p>\n<p>Together, the projects demonstrate Fitchburg\u2019s strategy of pairing private redevelopment of vacant and underutilized buildings with public investment in the infrastructure necessary to support housing, businesses and stronger neighborhoods.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThese awards are all part of one strategy: building the infrastructure that allows Fitchburg to continue producing more housing,\u201d said Mayor Samantha Squailia. \u201cHousing development involves collaboration with private and public partners to bring new units online, while we also invest in the streets, utilities, connections and public spaces that support those neighborhoods. We will now work to connect infrastructure improvements with housing production and continued downtown revitalization. We appreciate the Healey-Driscoll Administration for recognizing that communities need both the housing and the infrastructure to support it.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The projects are directly associated with approximately 302 new housing units, along with new commercial, coworking and community space.<\/p>\n<p>Mayor Squailia also recognized Senator John Cronin and Representative Michael Kushmerek for their continued partnership and advocacy for Fitchburg\u2019s housing and economic development priorities at the State House. \u201cSenator Cronin and Representative Kushmerek have been strong partners in this work, and I appreciate the time and effort they continue to put into advocating for Fitchburg and helping us connect our local priorities with state resources,\u201d Squailia said. \u201cThese projects only happen when the City, our legislative delegation, the Administration and our private and nonprofit development partners are all working in the same direction.\u201d<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Moran Square: $5 Million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The largest award will provide $5 million through the MBTA Communities Catalyst Fund to reconstruct and improve the historic Moran Square gateway into downtown.<\/p>\n<p>The project includes intersection reconfiguration, new traffic signals and lighting, full-depth pavement reconstruction, drainage improvements, accessible sidewalks and pedestrian areas, streetscape improvements and better bicycle and pedestrian connections. The work will also address longstanding stormwater and flooding concerns in the area.<\/p>\n<p>The infrastructure investment directly supports the redevelopment of the long-underutilized warehouse at 64 Main Street into Railside Lofts, a 36-unit residential development immediately adjacent to Fitchburg\u2019s Intermodal Transportation Center and the future northern terminus of the Twin Cities Rail Trail.<\/p>\n<p>The improvements also complement significant housing activity already underway nearby, including 34 units planned at 280-288 Main Street and additional permitted housing developments within the surrounding downtown area, with 44 units of mixed-income housing on 10 Main St completed in 2023.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis is what coordinated redevelopment looks like,\u201d Commissioner of Public Works Nicholas Erickson said. \u201cWe are improving the gateway, renewing aging infrastructure, addressing drainage and traffic concerns, making the area safer for people walking and biking, connecting residents to transit and the rail trail, and creating the conditions for vacant buildings around Moran Square to become productive properties again.\u201d<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Eleanor\u2019s Lofts: $2.5 Million<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Fitchburg will receive $2.5 million through MassWorks to improve Depot Street in conjunction with the redevelopment of the former Ahlstrom-Munksj\u00f6 paper mill into Eleanor\u2019s Lofts.<\/p>\n<p>The historic industrial complex is being transformed into <strong>approximately 225 workforce and market-rate apartments<\/strong>, including family and senior housing, along with approximately <em>37,000 square feet of commercial and community space.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<p>The state-funded public infrastructure work will include roadway reconstruction, pedestrian safety improvements, traffic-calming measures, intersection upgrades, lighting, streetscape improvements, a new MART transit stop with passenger amenities and improved public access around the redevelopment.<\/p>\n<p>The project brings housing production, environmental cleanup, historic preservation, riverfront reinvestment and private development together on the former industrial site.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>Main Street Lofts at 280: $1.15 Million in Combined State Investment<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The redevelopment of 280-288 Main Street will receive $1.15 million through two complementary state awards, pairing investment in the building itself with improvements to the public infrastructure surrounding it.<\/p>\n<p>A <u>$1 million MassWorks award to the City of Fitchburg<\/u> will support reconstruction of the Main Street frontage, ADA-accessible curb cuts, stormwater improvements and utility upgrades necessary to support the redevelopment. In addition, Watch Us Grow LLC will receive $150,000 through MassDevelopment\u2019s Underutilized Properties Program to support the rehabilitation of the building itself.<\/p>\n<p>The long-vacant, five-story historic property will be converted into <strong>34 apartments<\/strong> y <em>approximately 2,500 square feet of coworking and commercial space.<\/em> Built in 1897, the property has remained one of the largest underutilized buildings along the Main Street corridor.<\/p>\n<p>Together, the two awards demonstrate Fitchburg\u2019s broader redevelopment strategy: <em>invest in both the private building and the public infrastructure around it<\/em> so difficult adaptive-reuse projects can move forward. The completed project will bring housing and commercial activity back to a prominent downtown building within walking distance of the MBTA Commuter Rail station, businesses, restaurants, cultural institutions and public services.<\/p>\n\n<p><strong>470 Main Street: $695,000<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>NewVue Communities will receive $695,000 through MassDevelopment\u2019s Underutilized Properties Program toward the redevelopment of 470 Main Street.<\/p>\n<p>The prominent mixed-use Main Street property currently includes housing, commercial space and NewVue\u2019s headquarters. A significant portion of its commercial space has remained vacant since the former TD Bank branch closed in 2020. NewVue plans to convert surplus commercial and storage space into <em>seven additional residential units<\/em>, bringing the building to<strong> 38 total mixed-income apartments<\/strong>, while retaining two smaller <em>Main Street commercial suites <\/em>better suited to current market demand.<\/p>\n<p>The project will create additional housing while preserving commercial activity along Main Street and putting currently underutilized space back into productive use. The planned housing will include a mix of affordability levels, including project-based voucher units, LIHTC-restricted units, workforce housing and a small number of unrestricted market-rate apartments.<\/p>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Coordinated City-State-Private Partnership<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>These awards reflect a broader approach Fitchburg has been pursuing: reuse existing buildings and neighborhoods, work with private and nonprofit developers willing to undertake difficult rehabilitation projects and pursue state resources to address the public infrastructure that makes those projects possible.<\/p>\n<p>The Commonwealth\u2019s Community One Stop for Growth is specifically designed to coordinate housing and economic development investments across multiple state agencies and programs. The state describes the program as an active partnership with municipalities in economic development strategy and investment. Massachusetts Government<\/p>\n<p>\u201cFitchburg has a tremendous opportunity to turn long-vacant and underused properties into productive parts of our community\u201d Liz Murphy, Director of\u00a0 Community Development and Planning said. \u201cInstead of watching vacant buildings continue to deteriorate, we are working collaboratively to bring them back to life. That means housing upstairs, businesses and community space where appropriate, safer streets and sidewalks outside, stronger utility systems underneath, and new property value that helps support City services. The State has been an incredible partner in helping Fitchburg connect all of those pieces.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>These five awards are part of more than $326 million in FY27 Community One Stop for Growth investments being announced statewide by the Healey-Driscoll Administration.<\/p>\n<p>The awards will now proceed through the Commonwealth\u2019s contracting process. The City will continue working with the Executive Office of Economic Development, the Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities, project developers and other partners to move each project toward construction.<\/p>\n<div class=\"su-image-carousel  su-image-carousel-has-spacing su-image-carousel-crop su-image-carousel-crop-3-2 su-image-carousel-has-outline su-image-carousel-adaptive su-image-carousel-slides-style-photo su-image-carousel-controls-style-light su-image-carousel-align-center\" style=\"max-width:400px\" data-flickity-options='{\"groupCells\":true,\"cellSelector\":\".su-image-carousel-item\",\"adaptiveHeight\":false,\"cellAlign\":\"left\",\"prevNextButtons\":true,\"pageDots\":true,\"autoPlay\":false,\"imagesLoaded\":true,\"contain\":true,\"selectedAttraction\":0.007,\"friction\":0.25}' id=\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"977\" height=\"712\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-Ribbon-Cutting.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-Ribbon-Cutting.png 977w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-Ribbon-Cutting-300x219.png 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-Ribbon-Cutting-768x560.png 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-Ribbon-Cutting-16x12.png 16w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-Ribbon-Cutting-705x514.png 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 977px) 100vw, 977px\" \/><span>Eleanor's Lofts Ribbon Cutting<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1536\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts.jpg\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-1030x773.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-16x12.jpg 16w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-1500x1125.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/Eleanors-Lofts-705x529.jpg 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><span>Eleanor's Loft<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1007\" height=\"850\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/64-Main-St-Moran-Square.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/64-Main-St-Moran-Square.png 1007w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/64-Main-St-Moran-Square-300x253.png 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/64-Main-St-Moran-Square-768x648.png 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/64-Main-St-Moran-Square-14x12.png 14w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/64-Main-St-Moran-Square-705x595.png 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1007px) 100vw, 1007px\" \/><span>64 Main St Moran Square<\/span><\/div><\/div><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item\"><div class=\"su-image-carousel-item-content\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1203\" height=\"711\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St.png\" class=\"\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St.png 1203w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St-300x177.png 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St-1030x609.png 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St-768x454.png 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St-18x12.png 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/280-Main-St-705x417.png 705w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1203px) 100vw, 1203px\" \/><span>280 Main St<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div><script id=\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330_script\">if(window.SUImageCarousel){setTimeout(function() {window.SUImageCarousel.initGallery(document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330\"))}, 0);}var su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330_script=document.getElementById(\"su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330_script\");if(su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330_script){su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330_script.parentNode.removeChild(su_image_carousel_6adc2b2432330_script);}<\/script>\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-24711 post-loop-6 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24711 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\/bankhometown-to-host-three-free-shred-days\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: bankHometown to Host Three Free Shred Days\">bankHometown to Host Three Free Shred Days<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=\"2026-10-02T11:23:21-04:00\" >Posted on octubre 2nd<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>Oxford, Massachusetts, September 29, 2026<\/strong> \u2014 bankHometown invites customers and members of the community to three free Shred Days. The first will be on Saturday, October 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the bank\u2019s 31 Sutton Avenue location in Oxford, MA, and the second will be held on Saturday, October 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the bank\u2019s 9 Sack Boulevard location in Leominster, MA. The third event will be on Saturday, November 7, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the bank\u2019s 148 Route 171 location in Woodstock, CT.<\/p>\n<p>Local residents can reduce their risk of identity theft by bringing old mail, receipts, statements or bills, cancelled checks, pay stubs, medical records, or any other unwanted paper documents containing personal or confidential information and shredding them safely and securely for free. Bay State Shredding, a professional document destruction company, will be on site in the bank\u2019s parking lot and can accept up to two boxes of documents per car. No appointment is necessary.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Sobre bankHometown<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Headquartered in Easthampton, Massachusetts, TruNorth Bank and its bankHometown and TruNorth Mortgage divisions have more than $6.9 billion in assets and offer consumer and business banking in 54 locations throughout Massachusetts, northeastern Connecticut, and southern New Hampshire. We\u2019re proud to fulfill our community banking mission\u2014providing individualized financial support, a suite of comprehensive products and services, and banking tools and technology\u2014all to ensure our customers can unlock their potential and build a successful future.<\/p>\n<p>Through our sponsorship and charitable giving program, The Giving Tree, TruNorth Bank supports non-profit organizations and causes throughout the communities we serve. In 2025 alone, we donated more than $2.2 million and over the last decade, more than $13 million. We were named a Corporate Citizenship Award winner by Boston Business Journal, reaffirming our status as one of Massachusetts\u2019 most charitable companies.<\/p>\n<p>As an employer of choice, we\u2019ve been recognized nationally as a four-time USA TODAY Top Workplaces award winner, an America\u2019s Best-in-State Bank by Forbes, and a top place to work by The Boston Globe. For more information, visit <u>TruNorthBank.com<\/u>.<\/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-24678 post-loop-7 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24678 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\/newvue-names-gonzalo-puigbo-as-new-executive-director\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: NewVue Names Gonzalo Puigbo as New Executive Director\">NewVue Names Gonzalo Puigbo as New Executive Director<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=\"2026-09-29T11:23:10-04:00\" >Publicado el 29 de septiembre<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>The NewVue Communities\u2019 Board of Directors is proud to announce that Gonzalo Puigbo has been named Executive Director of the Fitchburg-based non-profit community development corporation, effective Sept. 8, 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Puigbo, a Natick resident, has served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Somerville Community Corporation (SCC) since 2020 and has more than 20 years of experience in the banking industry.<\/p>\n<p>In both his professional and personal life, Puigbo has been a fierce advocate for the needs of low-income individuals and families by championing causes promoting social and financial equity.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cGonzalo brings a wealth of community development experience to NewVue,\u201d said Christina DiRusso, President of the NewVue Board of Directors. \u201cWe are excited to add his energy and passion to our work creating strong and healthy neighborhoods in North Central Massachusetts.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>A fluent Spanish speaker, Puigbo describes himself as a \u201cservant leader,\u2019\u2019 a leadership style in which he focuses primarily on the needs and well-being of people<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-24679 alignright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo-1030x688.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo-768x513.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo-705x471.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Gonzalo-Press-Release-Photo.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/>and communities in which they belong. He said he is excited to bring his skills and experience to NewVue and North Central Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;God has blessed me with the opportunity to serve as the next Executive Director of NewVue Communities. I am thankful that the Board of Directors, the staff, and our community have given me a chance to build on the strength of the work that has already been accomplished,\u2019 Puigbo said. \u201cTogether, we will envision and work towards a place of diversity, equity, inclusivity and justice that supports all of the community members who have built this amazing region.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Prior to SCC, Puigbo worked at People\u2019s United Bank as the Vice President, Community Reinvestment Act &amp; Community Development Officer for Northern New England. In this role, he was exposed to challenges facing local low-income households and worked to help them achieve financial independence through homeownership, workforce development, financial education, community organizing and leadership initiatives.<\/p>\n<p>Leading by example, Puigbo has embraced community activism by volunteering with several non-profit organizations. He serves on the Board of the Massachusetts Association of Community Development Corporations, and the Partnership for Financial Equity, a group dedicated to closing racial wealth gaps and improving the financial futures of low- and moderate-income households.<\/p>\n<p>He is the former Board Chair for Compass Working Capital, an organization that works to end asset poverty for families with low incomes and narrow the racial and gender wealth divides. Puigbo is also a former Board Member and Vice Chair of Amplify Latinx, a non-partisan, collaborative non-profit whose mission it is to advance Latine prosperity and leadership representation in Massachusetts.<\/p>\n<p>Puigbo received his Bachelor of Science and Master\u2019s degree from Framingham State University. In 2012, he received the Alumni Achievement Award for his outstanding work in the community.<\/p>\n<p>Timothy Johnstone served as Interim Executive Director while the board conducted an extensive search for a new leader. The Board is grateful for Johnstone\u2019s steady hand during this transition.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;NewVue has more than doubled its impact over the past five years and has plans to continue to bring resources into the region,\u201dDiRusso said. \u201cWe are very fortunate to have someone with Gonzalo&#8217;s leadership skills to guide our experienced team.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>NewVue Communities welcomes the community to meet Puigbo on Friday, Sept. 25 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the NewVue offices, 470 Main St., Fitchburg.<\/p>\n<p>About NewVue Communities: NewVue Communities is a nonprofit community development corporation dedicated to creating strong and healthy neighborhoods where residents choose to live, work, and invest. NewVue Communities is dedicated to serving 240,000 residents of North Central Massachusetts, a region of 22 municipalities stretching from Harvard to Athol. We strategically use a five-pronged approach to strengthen communities and fuel economic and social progress through homeownership, small business development, housing development, asset management, and community organizing.<\/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-24692 post-loop-8 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24692 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\/green-leaf-construction-and-f-w-webb-celebrate-topping-off-of-new-hazleton-central-distribution-facility\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Green Leaf Construction and F.W. Webb Celebrate Topping Off of New Hazleton Central Distribution Facility\">Green Leaf Construction and F.W. Webb Celebrate Topping Off of New Hazleton Central Distribution Facility<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=\"2026-09-29T08:27:58-04:00\" >Publicado el 29 de septiembre<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>HAZLETON, PA \u2014 August 13, 2026<\/strong> &#8211; F.W. Webb Company, Green Leaf Construction, and project partners gathered in Hazleton, Pennsylvania, to celebrate a major milestone in the construction of F.W. Webb\u2019s second Central Distribution facility; the topping-off of the 738,654-square-foot facility.<\/p>\n<p>The topping off marks the completion of the building\u2019s structural steel frame, representing a significant step forward in the construction of a facility that will expand F.W. Webb\u2019s distribution capabilities throughout Pennsylvania and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic markets.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_24694\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24694\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-24694\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-1030x686.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-1500x1000.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising-705x470.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_FWW_Beam_Raising.jpg 2000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24694\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Crews lift the ceremonial final steel beam for placement.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>\u201cThis building represents a significant investment in F.W. Webb and, more importantly, an investment in our customers,\u201d said <strong>Jeff Pope, President and Owner of F.W. Webb Company<\/strong>. \u201cAs we continue to grow in Pennsylvania and the surrounding markets, this facility will help us increase our capacity, improve product availability, and better serve our customers when and where they need us.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The scale of the project is significant. Before construction could begin, Green Leaf Construction addressed challenging subsurface conditions at the site, moving more than <strong>1 million cubic yards of rock<\/strong> through blasting and excavation. Much of the material was crushed and repurposed on site for grading, stabilization, and infrastructure construction.<\/p>\n<p>Once complete, the facility will serve as a modern distribution hub designed to support F.W. Webb\u2019s continued growth. The building will feature high-bay storage, 70 loading dock doors, and infrastructure designed to support high-volume distribution operations.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis is an exciting milestone, not only because of the size and complexity of this project, but because of what it represents for F.W. Webb and the team that has brought it to this point,\u201d said<strong> Andy McBeth, President of Green Leaf Construction<\/strong>. \u201cA project of this scale takes an incredible amount of coordination, planning, and hard work. We are proud of our entire project team and especially grateful to the tradespeople who have worked safely and diligently to make this milestone possible.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The topping off ceremony also provided an opportunity to recognize the many people involved in the project; from the design and engineering teams to the subcontractors, tradespeople, suppliers, and Green Leaf and F.W. Webb teams working together to bring the facility to life.<\/p>\n<p>With the structural frame now complete, construction will continue through the remainder of 2026, with the facility currently scheduled to open in <strong>spring 2027<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>The new facility will further strengthen F.W. Webb\u2019s distribution network as the company continues its growth across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. So far in 2026, F.W. Webb has opened new facilities in Central Islip, NY, and Somerdale, NJ, and relocated existing stores into new facilities in Whippany, NJ, and Queensbury, NY.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>About Green Leaf Construction<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Green Leaf Construction is a full-service design-build and construction management firm based in Leominster, Massachusetts. Founded in 2014, Green Leaf provides preconstruction, design-build, construction management, and general contracting services throughout the Northeast. The company specializes in commercial, industrial, manufacturing, distribution, and other complex construction projects, with a focus on collaboration, transparency, quality, and long-term client relationships.<\/p>\n<p><strong>About F.W. Webb Company<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>An industry pioneer since 1866,\u00a0F.W. Webb Company\u00a0is the largest wholesale distributor of plumbing, heating, HVAC, LP gas, refrigeration, pipe, valves, and fittings in the Northeast. F.W. Webb has grown from a single location to more than 100 across nine states and proudly offers customers an extensive inventory of products and dedicated services that reach from underground to the rooftop. Covering 16 areas of expertise, specialty markets include process controls, water works, environmental services, and more. F.W. Webb also operates 50 Frank Webb Home bath, kitchen, and lighting retail showrooms.<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_24693\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24693\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-24693\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-300x272.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"272\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-300x272.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-1030x935.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-768x697.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-1536x1394.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-13x12.jpg 13w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-1500x1361.jpg 1500w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA-705x640.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/GLC_Tops_Off_FWW_PA.jpg 1743w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24693\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Left to right: Mark Imse, Sr. Project Manager, Green Leaf Construction; Jeff Thompston, SVP of Purchasing, F.W. Webb Company; John McCubrey, Project Manager, Green Leaf Construction; Bryan Simmons, Assistant Superintendent, Green Leaf Construction; Jesse Wilbur, Sr. Superintendent, Green Leaf Construction; Mike Vogel, Project Executive, Green Leaf Construction; Brendan Monaghan, SVP of Operations, F.W. Webb Company; Jeff Henderson, General Manager, F.W. Webb Company; Brian Cavossa, Director of Regional Sales; Southern New York, New Jersey, &amp; Pennsylvania, F.W. Webb Company; Jeff Pope, Owner &amp; President, F.W. Webb Company; Andy McBeth, President, Green Leaf Construction; Art Osborn \u2013 Director of Residential and Light Commercial HVAC Sales, F.W. Webb Company<\/p><\/div>\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-24701 post-loop-9 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24701 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\/meet-one-on-one-with-state-economic-development-officials-2\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Meet One-on-One with State Economic Development Officials\">Meet One-on-One with State Economic Development Officials<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=\"2026-09-23T13:48:59-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 23rd<\/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\">Noticias de la C\u00e1mara<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p>(North Central, MA) \u2013 In a partnership with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD), MassDevelopment, and MassHire, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce (NCMCC) and North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC) will be hosting state economic development officials for one-on-one appointments with local developers, manufacturers, and business owners.\u00a0 The meetings are an opportunity to discuss any specific matters related to their business or the expansion of their business, as well as to review state resources available to support business growth and expansion.<\/p>\n<p>Kevin Kuros, Central Massachusetts Director for MOBD; Anne Szender McCarthy, Vice President, Business Development of MassDevelopment; and Scott Percifull, Program Specialist for MassHire, will be available at the Chamber office, located at <strong>860 South St., Fitchburg, MA 01420<\/strong>, by appointment on <strong>Wednesday, October 7, between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. <\/strong>The appointments are in thirty-minute increments and are first-come, first-served. Meetings are free and confidential, available on a non-discriminatory basis, and are accessible to people with disabilities.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MOBD<\/strong> is the state\u2019s economic development office and manages the Economic Development Incentive Program (EDIP), which provides tax credits for qualifying business expansion projects.\u00a0 In addition, MOBD directors are navigators in the state\u2019s new Business Front Door portal, through which businesses can manage their interactions with state agencies and related quasi-public agencies. MOBD is also the home of the Massachusetts Center for Employee Ownership (MassCEO), which provides resources and information for businesses\u00a0exploring employee ownership models, often as a succession planning strategy.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MassDevelopment<\/strong>, the state\u2019s development finance agency and land bank, works with businesses, nonprofits, banks, and communities to stimulate economic growth across the Commonwealth. During FY2026, MassDevelopment financed or managed 526 projects generating investment of more than $6.29 billion in the Massachusetts economy. These projects are estimated to create or support 42,026 jobs and build or preserve 4,355 housing units. MassDevelopment has a variety of financing programs to address the needs of small businesses, from equipment to real estate to working capital.<\/p>\n<p><strong>MassHire<\/strong> provides workforce development services to employers throughout the business cycle, including employee training, recruitment, large multi-industry job fairs, and access to job seekers through its JobQuest database. MassHire can also help businesses access grants and other resources to support employee training and workforce needs.<\/p>\n<p>To\u00a0schedule an appointment, contact Sandie Cataldo, Senior Economic Development Manager at the NCMCC and NCMDC at 978.353.7600 ext. 232 or via email at <a href=\"mailto:scataldo@northcentralmass.com\">scataldo@northcentralmass.com<\/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-24704 post-loop-10 post-parity-even bloglist-compact with-slider post-24704 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\/youre-invited-to-hear-u-s-senator-rev-dr-raphael-g-warnock\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: You&#8217;re invited to hear U.S. Senator Rev. Dr. Raphael G. Warnock\">You&#8217;re invited to hear U.S. Senator Rev. Dr. Raphael G. Warnock<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=\"2026-09-23T10:06:56-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 23rd<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>Keynote Address<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Saturday, September 26, 2026<br \/>\nDoors open at 3:00 PM<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-24705 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Keynote-Invite-September-2026-202x300.jpeg\" alt=\"\" width=\"202\" height=\"300\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Keynote-Invite-September-2026-202x300.jpeg 202w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Keynote-Invite-September-2026-693x1030.jpeg 693w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Keynote-Invite-September-2026-8x12.jpeg 8w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Keynote-Invite-September-2026-474x705.jpeg 474w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Keynote-Invite-September-2026.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 202px) 100vw, 202px\" \/><br \/>\nDCU Center, Worcester, MA \u2014 in person or livestream<br \/>\nTickets: $35<\/p>\n<p>Rev. Dr. Raphael G. Warnock represents Georgia in the United States Senate, where he is a leading voice for expanded healthcare access, voting rights, and criminal justice reform. He has served since 2005 as Senior Pastor of Atlanta&#8217;s Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, the spiritual home of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. A Savannah native and graduate of Morehouse College with a doctorate from Union Theological Seminary, he is widely regarded as a prophetic voice at the intersection of faith and justice. He&#8217;ll bring that voice to Worcester for a keynote address grounded in this year&#8217;s theme, The Ties That Bind.<\/p>\n<p>Get tickets <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sneucc.org\/warnock-tickets\">here<\/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-24644 post-loop-11 post-parity-odd bloglist-compact with-slider post-24644 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-promotes-chris-connors-to-vice-president-business-banking-officer\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Rollstone Bank &#038; Trust Promotes Chris Connors to Vice President, Business Banking Officer\">Rollstone Bank &#038; Trust Promotes Chris Connors to Vice President, Business Banking Officer<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=\"2026-09-22T08:26:12-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 22nd<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>FITCHBURG, Mass. (August 28, 2026). <\/strong>Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust, an affiliate of River Run Bancorp along with Newburyport Bank and Pentucket Bank, is pleased to announce the promotion of Chris Connors to Vice President, Business Banking Officer, based at the bank\u2019s John Fitch Branch in Fitchburg. Chris brings 28 years of industry experience to the position, having most recently served as Vice President, Treasury &amp; Relationship Banking Officer.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignright wp-image-24645\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors-240x300.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"224\" height=\"280\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors-824x1030.jpg 824w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors-10x12.jpg 10w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors-564x705.jpg 564w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Christopher-Connors.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 224px) 100vw, 224px\" \/>In his new role, Chris is responsible for identifying new business opportunities within Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust\u2019s market area to attract and retain quality banking relationships. He will continue to build and maintain a network of professional referral sources, including real estate brokers, accountants, attorneys and other centers of influence, to generate new business, while recommending and selling a full range of banking products, including loans, deposits and treasury management solutions.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cChris has spent nearly three decades building trust with clients and referral partners across our market, and this promotion reflects the depth of that experience,\u201d said Stacey Palovich, Senior Vice President, Business Banking &amp; Professional Practices Director at River Run \u201cHis ability to structure the right banking solution for a business, and to see a credit relationship through from first conversation to closing, makes him a tremendous asset to our business banking team.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In addition, Chris will manage the credit process from structuring through closing, working closely with the bank\u2019s underwriting and credit teams, and will coordinate with internal partners to deliver full-service banking solutions to clients.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m looking forward to this new chapter at Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust,\u201d said Chris Connors. \u201cBusiness owners in this region deserve a banking partner who understands their goals and can move quickly to help them get there, and that\u2019s the kind of relationship I build with every client I work with.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Chris holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications and Psychology from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia, and served in the United States Navy as an Operations Specialist 2nd Class. He is an avid outdoorsman whose interests include offshore sailboat racing, hunting, golf and fishing. Chris lives in Lunenburg with his family.<\/p>\n<p><strong><u>About Rollstone Bank &amp; Trust<\/u><\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Founded 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-24683 post-loop-12 post-parity-even post-entry-last bloglist-compact with-slider post-24683 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\/freedoms-way-national-heritage-area-launches-2027-partnership-grant-program-allocates-100k-in-support-of-creative-programs-projects\/\" rel=\"bookmark\" title=\"Permanent Link: Freedom\u2019s Way National Heritage Area Launches 2027 Partnership Grant Program; Allocates $100k in Support of Creative Programs &#038; Projects\">Freedom\u2019s Way National Heritage Area Launches 2027 Partnership Grant Program; Allocates $100k in Support of Creative Programs &#038; Projects<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=\"2026-09-18T08:59:53-04:00\" >Posted on septiembre 18th<\/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\">Noticias para miembros<\/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\">Noroeste de Massachusetts<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/header><div class=\"entry-content\"  itemprop=\"text\" ><p><strong>DEVENS, MA, September 8, 2026<\/strong>\u202f\u2013 Freedom\u2019s Way National Heritage Area is pleased to announce the launch of its <strong>Annual Partnership Grant Program <\/strong>on October 1, 2026. Designed to provide strategic investments in the natural, cultural, and historical resources that enhance the region\u2019s sense of place, $100,000 has been set aside for this funding cycle.<\/p>\n<p>Reimbursable matching grants of up to $5,000\u00a0are available to eligible non-profits, municipalities, state agencies, and public academic institutions. Applications are accepted, reviewed<u>,<\/u> and awarded on a rolling basis from October 1<sup>para<\/sup>, 2026 through April 15, 2027, or until the allocated funds have been committed.<\/p>\n<p>The Freedom\u2019s Way Partnership Grant Program supports a variety of creative programs and projects, diverse in scale and scope, that align with the following<\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_24684\" style=\"width: 310px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-24684\" class=\"size-medium wp-image-24684\" src=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH-300x199.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"199\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH-1030x682.jpg 1030w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH-18x12.jpg 18w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH-705x467.jpg 705w, https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/Black-Heritage-Trail-of-NH.jpg 1117w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-24684\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Freedom\u2019s Way logo and Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire monument unveiling, 2026. A project funded in part by a Partnership Grant.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>funding opportunities:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n<li>Storytelling<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Education, Interpretation &amp; Curation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Community Planning &amp; Resource Conservation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Historic Preservation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Regional Cultural Events<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Freedom\u2019s Way 250<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<p>Prospective applicants are encouraged to arrange a time to discuss their program or project prior to the submission of an online application by sending an email to <a href=\"mailto:grants@freedomsway.org\"><strong>grants@freedomsway.org<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Since its inception, the Freedom\u2019s Way Partnership Grant Program has awarded 270 grants totaling over $391,000 within\u00a0the Heritage Area\u2019s 45 communities. More than $4.9 million in cash and in-kind match has been generated, leveraging Heritage Partnership funds received through the National Park Service by\u00a013:1.<\/p>\n<p><strong>For more information, including program guidelines, application materials, and past project descriptions, visit<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/freedomsway.org\/grants\"><strong>freedomsway.org\/grants<\/strong><\/a>.<strong>\u202f<\/strong><\/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 203<\/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\/'>\u203a<\/a><a href='https:\/\/www.northcentralmass.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/15\/page\/203\/'>\u00bb<\/a><\/nav>\n<\/div><\/div><\/p><\/div><\/div><!--close column table wrapper. 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