Leominster Credit Union has proudly participated in Children’s Book Month for over 20 years, an annual event sponsored by the Cooperative Credit Union Association.
During the month of April, donations of new and gently used children’s books were accepted at all LCU locations. LCU employees participated in Jeans Days raising funds to purchase books. This year’s event was organized by Rachel Terrell, Executive Assistant, assisted by Linda Taratuta, Elizabeth Bushnell, Mary Marchant, Nicole Florio and Amy Lacouture. LCU members and employees generously donated over 990 books.
Books were distributed to various organizations including; MOC (Child Care and Head Start Center), Sunrise Assisted Living, Fitchburg Public Schools, Boys & Girls Club of Fitchburg/ Leominster, Johnny Appleseed School, Clinton Preschool, Elementary and District Resource Center, Wachusett Regional High School Preschool and the Francis Drake School.
About Leominster Credit Union (LCU)
Founded in 1954, Leominster Credit Union (LCU) is a member-owned, not-for-profit financial cooperative with a full range of deposit, lending and other financial services. Headquartered in Leominster, Massachusetts, LCU is proud to claim nearly 50,000 members and more than $850 million in assets. LCU has seven branch locations in Leominster, Clinton, Holden, North Leominster, Sterling and Worcester with ATM services at all branch locations. LCU also provides 24-hour banking via Mobile and Online services. Visit leominstercu.com or call 800-649-4646.
Mount Wachusett Community College is pleased to announce that the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) has appropriated $515,055 for Fiscal Year 2024 to continue funding the Early Childhood Career Pathways Grant program.
The Early Childhood Career Pathways Grant aims to help interested students and early childhood educators advance their careers. The mission of the grant program is to help alleviate the early childhood educator shortage and increase the education levels of educators already in the field. Students receive free courses, books, and the Child Development Associate (CDA) certification visit and exam required to earn the CDA credential. English-language tutoring support and one-on-one advising is also provided. The program goal is to service 120 students in Fiscal Year 2024.
“We are thrilled to receive continued funding for this vital program,” stated Grant Coordinator Jonie Latimer-Brady. “We not only have been able to help students earn their CDA credential, but many have continued on to earn their Early Childhood Education certificate.”
Funds will also be used to increase the number of Spanish-speaking instructors and advisors for the new Spanish language college level ECE Certificate program. Students will earn their EEC Lead teacher certification by starting with courses that are taught in Spanish and will take a contextualized college level ESOL course concurrently.
Mayor Stephen L. DiNatale and the Fitchburg Civic Days Committee are proud to announce Raymond and Diane Burnette as the 2023 Fitchburg Civic Days 4th of July Parade Grand Marshalls’ in recognition of their service to the Civic Days Committee for eleven years, and their dedication to the City of Fitchburg.
Living nearly forty years as residents of the City, Ray and Diane have volunteered their time in several capacities throughout the city from volunteering with the Fitchburg High School Cheerleading Squad to working numerous public events. Beginning in 2011, the Burnette’s felt a call to action to help make the Civic Days events return back to the days Diane remembers so vividly as Old Fashioned Days on Main Street. What began as making small improvements turned into a decade-long mission of spreading Fitchburg civic pride through multi-day celebrations of our great city. Enlisting the help of their daughters and local volunteers, Diane and Ray moved Civic Days events back to Main Street, added vendors, created events, and ensured that there was fun to be had for all ages. From dancing in the street to a wrestling ring, street performers, and even creating a beer garden for those old enough to participate – Diane and Ray had one thing in mind: showcasing all that Fitchburg has to offer to her residents and those that reside in surrounding communities. Fitchburg Civic Days events grew from 1,000 participants in 2011 to over 20,000 participants in their decade of volunteerism.
“Through Ray and Diane Burnette’s efforts, Fitchburg Civic Days has grown into a regional tourism event because of their passion and love for our city,” said Mayor Stephen L. DiNatale. “Fitchburg Civic Days is one of the city’s oldest traditions, and we owe a debt of gratitude to the Burnette’s for making Civic Days the best it has ever been since its inception.”
In recognition of the theme of the parade this year, “Honoring The Past and Inspiring The Future,” resembles the thousands of hours of devotion Ray and Diane provided to make Civic Days the impressive event it has become. Although Civic Days 2022 was their last year as volunteers, Diane and Ray reflect and acknowledge the success of the 4th of July events in Fitchburg would not be possible without the help of their two daughters Kylee and Katie, the Mayor, city departments, Committee Members, volunteers, vendors, and most importantly the Civic Days participants.
The 4th of July Parade starts at 10:00 AM and can be viewed along Summer Street and Main Street to the Upper Common. This year’s Civic Days Parade will be broadcast live on FATV by Travis Condon, Glenn Fossa and Thomas Hughes. The parade will feature community organizations, sports leagues, local businesses, and a variety of local and regional bands. For more information visit: www.fitchburgma.gov/civicdays.
James L. Vander Hooven, Ed.D., President, Mount Wachusett Community College has been elected Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors for 2023-2024. The announcement was made at the chamber’s Annual Meeting on June 15, 2023.
Dr. Vander Hooven was named president of Mount Wachusett Community College in 2017. Headquartered in Gardner, Mount Wachusett Community College is a public, two-year college that was founded in 1963 to serve the people of North Central Massachusetts. The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) and offers 70+ credit-bearing degree and certificate programs, non-credit, personal enrichment classes for lifelong learners, and workforce development that includes custom, on-site training.
Dr. Vander Hooven earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from The Ohio State University and his Master of Arts degree in American Studies from the University of Wyoming. In 2009, he was awarded his Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Maine, where he focused on student access.
In addition to his involvement with the chamber, Dr. Vander Hooven also serves on a number of boards and charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Fitchburg/Leominster, United Way of North Central Massachusetts, Wachusett Business Incubator and the GFA Federal Credit Union Supervisory Committee.
He succeeds Christopher McCarthy, president of Fidelity Bank who now moves to the position of Immediate Past Chair of the Board of Directors.
“I am incredibly honored to have been elected Chair of this dynamic and respected organization that plays such a leadership role in advancing North Central Massachusetts,” expressed Dr. Vander Hooven, “I am excited to continue Chris McCarthy’s efforts and look forward to working alongside an incredible Board and staff to make sure the Chamber remains a strong resource for our business community.”
Vander Hooven was first elected to the Chamber’s Board of Directors in 2018 and has held several leadership positions including Vice Chair, Treasurer and has served on the Chamber’s Leadership Council, the One North Central leadership committee and the executive committee. As the Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, Dr. Vander Hooven will work with the Board, Chamber staff, and membership to champion the Chamber in its mission to serve the region’s business community.
“Jim has served as an important member of the Chamber’s Board of Directors and Executive Committee for several years and is a valued leader in the community,” noted Roy Nascimento, Chamber president & CEO. “We are fortunate to have his respected leadership as we continue to advance the interests of our members and work together to promote North Central Massachusetts.”
In the same election, Barbara Mahoney, president & CEO of Leominster Credit Union was elected Vice-Chair and Dr. Richard Lapidus, president of Fitchburg State University was elected to the position of Treasurer. Board members elected for new terms were Nick Haritos, president & CEO of AIS, Inc. in Leominster; John Heroux, president of Micro Machine & Electronics in Leominster; and Nicole Moorshead, general manager of the Chocksett Inn in Sterling and the Colonial Hotel in Gardner.
Continuing current terms on the Board of Directors are Allie Catlin, co-owner of Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon; Jackie Cullen, co-owner of River Styx Brewing in Fitchburg; Tony Fields, president and owner of Cleartech Group in Leominster; Matthew Fournier, president of Elite Construction & Design in Fitchburg; Melissa Glenny, president of Franklin Professional Associates in Leominster; Michael Johansen, president & CEO of Bemis Associates in Shirley; Rachel Lopez, president & CEO of Resource Management, Inc in Fitchburg; Lori Richardson, president of Aging Services of North Central Massachusetts in Leominster; and Rodrigo Souza, owner of Comeketo Brazilian Steakhouse in Leominster.
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber Updates | Board of Directors | James L. Vander Hooven | Board of Directors | Barbara Mahoney, president & CEO of Leominster Credit Union | Dr. Richard Lapidus, President of Fitchburg State University | Nick Haritos, president & CEO of AIS, Inc. in Leominster | John Heroux, president of Micro Machine & Electronics in Leominster; and Nicole Moorshead, General manager of the Chocksett Inn | Allie Catlin, co-owner of Smith’s Country Cheese in Winchendon | Jackie Cullen, co-owner of River Styx Brewing in Fitchburg | Tony Fields, president and owner of Cleartech Group in Leominster | Matthew Fournier, president of Elite Construction & Design in Fitchburg | Melissa Glenny, president of Franklin Professional Associates in Leominster | Michael Johansen, president & CEO of Bemis Associates in Shirley | Rachel Lopez, president & CEO of Resource Management, Inc Fitchburg | Lori Richardson, President of Aging Services of North Central Massachusetts Leominster | Rodrigo Souza, owner of Comeketo Brazilian Steakhouse in Leominster.
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During high energy price challenges, National Grid has partnered with the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce to support small businesses. We are pleased to announce the National Grid Small Business Energy Relief Grant, a one-time grant of $1,000 aimed at assisting eligible small business owners in overcoming financial obstacles.
Eligibility
Small Business Status: The business should have 150 employees or fewer and provide proof of business, such as a DBA Business Certificate or Articles of Organization. Additionally, submission of 2022 Business Taxes/Schedule C is required to demonstrate ongoing operations.
National Grid Customer: The business must be a National Grid customer for electric and/or gas services. Applicants must furnish the most recent National Grid Bill/Statement, showing the Business Name, Primary Business Address, and Account Number for verification purposes.
Qualifiers: The business must be located within one of the 27 communities serviced by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, as depicted here, or be a Member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber or a Loan Client of the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC).
Grant Details:
Grant Amount: Successful applicants will receive a one-time grant of $1,000 to alleviate the financial burden of high energy prices.
Availability: Grants are limited and will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, providing timely support to eligible small businesses. Priority will be given to NCMDC Loan Clients and/or Chamber Members.
Application Requirements: Complete applications are essential, as partial or incomplete submissions will not secure a place in the grant allocation process.
Single Grant per Business: Only one grant will be provided per small business, ensuring fair distribution among eligible applicants.
Grant Decision and Disbursement: Successful applicants can expect to receive a check within one month of the grant decision, enabling prompt financial relief.
Application Period Closed – We are no longer accepting applications.
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Business Growth | Business Development | Massachusetts Business Environment | Small Business Grants
Live Music, Food, Drinks, and more are coming to Gardner on June 29th!
The City of Gardner is excited to announce its First Annual Summer Kick-Off Concert. The free admission event will take place on Thursday, June 29th. Live Music will be available 6 to 9 pm on the front lawn of Gardner City Hall, located at 95 Pleasant St., with several food trucks beginning their service at 5:30.
The concert will feature a live performance by the band 7 Day Weekend, who have made a name for themselves throughout New England for their energetic stage presence and crowd-pleasing covers of popular tunes from the 80s to the present. The band says they intend to create a lively atmosphere that will have attendees dancing and singing along. They will be performing on the front steps of Gardner City Hall from 7pm to 9pm.
Prior to 7 Day Weekend taking the stage, Brandon Furtado, a new, upcoming musician will showcase his talents from 6pm to 7pm.
Food and beverages will be available for purchase at the concert through the participation of several local food trucks, Tavern 13 who will have a full bar, and Moon Hill Brewing, who will be offering beer and wine. City officials said they intend to make the event a fun way to kick off the summer in the city.
“I’m really looking forward to having the community get together to kick off the summer in this new and fun way,” said Mayor Mike Nicholson, “This is sure to be a fun time for everyone who can join.”
Organizers of the event have advised people bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, or anything they’d like to enjoy a fun time on the City Hall front lawn.
For more information about this event or future events in Gardner, visit www.gardner-ma.gov or follow us on Instagram @cityofgardner and Facebook, Gardner City Hall.
The Chamber is pleased to announce the addition of Maureen Babcock to the professional staff in the role of Executive Assistant. She will be responsible for managing the Chamber’s database, providing administrative and operational support, and coordinating special projects. Maureen lives in Devens and has been very active in the community, including volunteering with the Boy Scouts and Harvard Parks & Recreation. She has also served as the Chair of the Educational Advisory Committee that advises MassDevelopment on education related matters in the Devens community. She holds a Bachelor degree in Political Science/Business from Mount Saint Mary’s College and is a Certified Financial Planner. Members can contact Maureen Babcock at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or via email at .
“Maureen brings a wealth of skills and experience to this dynamic and essential role, including over a decade of experience in project management, registration and program coordination,” said Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the Chamber. “We are excited to have her join our team and contribute towards our efforts to support our members and advance our communities.”
The Chamber also announces the recent departure of Maribel Cruz and Lauren Goulet. Cruz has served as Economic Development Manager for the Chamber for over two years and recently accepted the position of Housing and Community Development Director for the City of Fitchburg. Lauren Goulet worked for the Chamber for nearly fifteen years as Operations Manager and recently accepted a position with the Azzur Group, a life sciences company expanding in Devens.
“We are saddened to lose Maribel and Lauren, but also excited for them and these new opportunities,” said Nascimento. “They have been important and dedicated members of our team and contributors to our success. I want to thank them for their hard work and commitment to the Chamber and wish them well in their new positions.”
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Chamber Updates | New Staff Addition | Maureen Babcock | Executive Assistant
More than $50,000 awarded to the region’s most outstanding high school seniors
Families, friends, fellow graduates, and business and community leaders recently gathered for the annual Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce scholarship program to recognize the region’s most outstanding high school seniors. The awardees were acknowledged during the Annual Scholar’s Breakfast held on Friday, May 12, at Great Wolf Lodge in Fitchburg.
Proceeds from the breakfast program benefit the Chamber Foundation and help support Chamber scholarships in future years. Maria Milagros, an award-winning speaker, award nominated author, TEDx speaker, storyteller and empowerment life coach, led the ceremony and delivered the keynote address for the event.
For the Class of 2023, a total of $52,000 in scholarships were awarded from either endowments or funds provided by local companies and individuals. The Scholarship Committee selected the recipients from among college-bound seniors who live in one of the 27 communities served by the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce based on a student’s overall merit, including academics, sports, volunteer work and employment.
Twenty-six scholarships of $2,000 were provided to the following seniors during the Scholar’s Breakfast:
Since the establishment of its scholarship program, the Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has awarded more than a million dollars in scholarships to more than 680 students. Many of these awards are made possible through contributions from members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce, with scholarships endowed through the Chamber Foundation often named in honor of prominent members of the North Central Massachusetts business community whose philanthropy and commitment to the community have helped shape the region.
“The North Central region is exceptional in its generosity, investment and commitment to supporting its future leaders,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “These scholarships are one way we can recognize local students as they continue their education through the support of organizations and individuals who help make these scholarships possible for our graduating seniors.”
The Chamber wishes to thank the Scholar’s Breakfast Premier Sponsor: Rollstone Bank & Trust; Recipient Ticket Sponsor: Great Wolf Lodge; Supporting Sponsors: AIS, Inc. and Steel-Fab Inc.; Program Sponsor: North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation; Center Piece Sponsor: Leominster Credit Union; Gift Sponsor: Fitchburg State University; as well as the many Chamber members who contributed towards the scholarships.
The Chamber Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization focused on assisting in the betterment of the region through charitable activities. Funds raised by the Chamber Foundation are utilized primarily for education and workforce development initiatives and charitable activities in North Central Massachusetts.
For more information on the Chamber Foundation of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce scholarship program or to view a list of the named scholarships, please visit northcentralmass.com or call 978.353.7600, ext. 225
Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Massachusetts Education System | Massachusetts Education Investments | Chamber Foundation Scholarships
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce has been awarded a 5-star Accreditation as a result of its sound policies, effective organizational procedures, and positive impact on the community by the Accrediting Board of the United States Chamber of Commerce. The announcement was made to an audience of nearly 300 business and community leaders at the Chamber’s Annual Business Meeting earlier this month.
Accreditation is the only national program to recognize chambers of commerce for their effective organizational procedures and community involvement. In order to achieve this recognition, a chamber must meet minimum standards in their operations and programs, including areas of governance, government affairs, communications and technology. This comprehensive self-review was conducted over a four-month period and required preparation of an extensive application, including compilation and review of volumes of materials required by the Accrediting Board, and demonstration of competency in nine core areas ranging from finance to facilities.
Of the approximately 7,000 chambers in the U.S., there are currently only 140 5-Star rated chambers, which represent the top three percent of all chambers in the country. In Massachusetts, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber is one of only two chambers with this prestigious accreditation.
“When chambers of commerce earn the distinction of becoming accredited, it is a mark of excellence for the organization, its staff, and its leadership” said Raymond P. Towle, U.S. Chamber vice president, Federation Relations and Institute for Organization Management. “This rigorous review includes all aspects of a chamber’s policies, operations, and programming. Accredited chambers are recognized for their continued advocacy of free enterprise, and for their commitment to serving members and their local business communities. Congratulations on this tremendous accomplishment.”
“We are incredibly honored to receive this national designation which places us among the best chambers of commerce in the country,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president & CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “We challenged ourselves to improve our Chamber for the betterment of our members and our region. Receiving this accreditation only motivates us to continue to remain engaged, active and innovative on behalf of our members and communities in North Central Massachusetts.”
Local chambers are rated Accredited, 3-Stars, 4-Stars, or 5-Stars. State chambers are recognized as either Accredited State Chamber or Accredited State Chamber with Distinction. The final determination is made by the Accrediting Board.
The accreditation report noted the North Central Massachusetts Chamber has demonstrated an excellent track record of operating a successful chamber and achieving desirable results for its members. Several of the Chamber’s programs, events and initiatives were highlighted for special recognition, including its leadership role in helping members and the community navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, and the Chamber’s leadership in talent and workforce development. The Chamber also received special recognition for its thoughtful and impactful efforts around government affairs and volunteer recognition, and for investments it has made in technology.
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | 5-Star Accreditation | United States Chamber of Commerce
In a partnership with MassHire, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce will be hosting officials from the MassHire Rapid Response team for one-on-one appointments with local employers. The meetings are an opportunity to discuss any specific matters related to a company’s hiring and retention of skilled workers, as well as to review state resources available to support a company’s talent needs.
Scott Percifull, Program Coordinator for MassHire’s Rapid Response team will be available at the Chamber office by appointment on Wednesday, June 28 between 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The appointments are in thirty minute increments and are first come, first serve. The meetings are free and confidential, available on a non-discriminatory basis, and are handicapped accessible.
The MassHire Department of Career Services oversees Massachusetts’s network of MassHire Career Centers that assist businesses in finding qualified workers, providing job seekers with career guidance as well as referrals to jobs and training. Employers can take advantage of employment and training resources, including assistance with recruitment and hiring, job matching with potential hires, tax credit programs, and labor market information.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Terry Young, Manager of Talent and Education Initiatives at the Chamber at (978) 353-7600 ext. 244 or via email at or Maureen Babcock, Executive Assistant at the Chamber at 978) 353-7600 ext. 222 or via email at .
Fitchburg | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts | North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce | Local Networking Events | Masshire Workforce
