An Electronic Publication of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Inside this edition, you’ll discover the latest Chamber initiatives and success stories from across our region. From economic development projects and upcoming networking events to policy updates and workforce training opportunities, we’re keeping you connected to what matters most for your business and North Central Massachusetts.
June 2026
Not Yet A Member? Join the Chamber
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is here to help – with trusted resources, a strong business network, and a support system to keep your business and the region moving forward
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick O’Hara as Manager of Membership Recruitment and Engagement.
In this position, he will be responsible for managing marketing and outreach to prospective members while also providing superior frontline customer service and support for current members. Additionally, he will drive a membership strategy that projects the Chamber’s message/brand to all of our stakeholders.
O’Hara brings to the Chamber extensive marketing and sales experience. He has worked with businesses in Central Massachusetts for over 25 years helping them with marketing, advertising and sales strategies. Most recently, he served as Territory Sales Manager for Land.com CoStar. He previously served as a consultative salesperson at CBS Radio, WXLO, and was a manager at WCRN830 AM. He is skilled at handling enterprise accounts as well as mom and pop businesses. Over the years, he has engaged in all aspects of multimedia solutions including digital, radio, cable, tv, print, event marketing and video with specialized training in the automotive and real estate sectors.
O’Hara’s experience as a small business owner also adds valuable perspective to his role at the Chamber. He was the founder of O’Hara Management Inc., a real estate management and development firm and he also owned and operated Tempest Advertising, a full-service advertising agency with customers like Kelly’s Roast Beef, Colonial Automotive Group, Cully’s Snowmobile Ranch, and Elite Entertainment.
“I am excited to have Patrick join our team, he will be a great help in supporting our efforts to promote our members and the communities of North Central Massachusetts,” said Roy Nascimento, President & CEO of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “His energy, experience and marketing knowledge will make a positive contribution to our efforts to engage business leaders and advance the regional economy.”
O’Hara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Northeastern University and has earned various Google certifications. He resides in Westminster and is actively involved in the community, most notably serving as the Founder, President, and Coach of the Ashburnham-Westminster Whalers Hockey Club.
Current members or businesses interested in learning more about the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce can reach out to Patrick O’Hara at 978.353.7600 ext. 239 or via email at .
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce Membership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits | Chamber of Commerce near me | Business Associations | Business Resources
The general election is just a few weeks away and there will be two important questions you will be asked to vote on. After careful review, the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce recommends a “NO” vote on Massachusetts Ballot Questions 2 and 5. We believe these measures, if passed, could have significant negative implications for local students, our members, communities and our regional economy.
Question 2: MCAS Graduation Requirement
The Chamber opposes Question 2, which would repeal the requirement that students must achieve a certain competency level on the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam to receive a high school diploma.
Background and why it’s important:
MCAS has been a cornerstone of the Massachusetts education system since passage of the 1993 Massachusetts Education Reform Act, helping to elevate our state from middle of the pack to having the best public education system in the country.
Bipartisan effort and strong support from the business community led to the passing of the law, resulting in significant new funding for education accompanied by high, statewide standards for learning, and a system for measuring progress and results.
Since the law was implemented, graduation rates have steadily increased, drop-out rates have declined, and since 2011, Massachusetts has ranked first in student achievement in the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).
Under current state law, students must achieve a score of “Meeting Expectations” or higher on the English language arts and mathematics tests to graduate.
Passage of Question 2 would eliminate the MCAS as a graduation requirement with students completing coursework certified by the local school district, resulting in more than 300 different graduation standards.
If Question 2 passes, Massachusetts would be one of only three states with no statewide graduation requirement; and one of two states without a minimum statewide standard for competency in math, English, and science.
Only 1% (approximately 700)* of Massachusetts high school students do not graduate because of not passing MCAS, primarily because of language barriers and other learning challenges.
Why we recommend voting “NO”:
The MCAS requirement ensures a baseline of knowledge and skills for high school graduates entering higher education or the job market.
Repealing this requirement would lower educational standards, impacting the quality of our local talent pool and making our graduates less competitive in the global economy.
The MCAS provides valuable data for identifying and addressing educational disparities, which is crucial for ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
We should take steps to meet the needs of the 1% of students who do not pass, instead of eliminating a comprehensive system that is working for almost every student.
Relying only on different local academic requirements will exacerbate educational inequities.
A major competitive advantage for Massachusetts is the quality of our public education system, and must maintain this advantage for our youth to compete in the college admissions process and future employment.
Question 5: Tipped Employee Wages
The Chamber also opposes Question 5, which would gradually increase the wage of tipped employees until it meets the state minimum wage by January 1, 2029.
Background and why it’s important:
Under current state law, tipped workers in Massachusetts, such as wait staff and bartenders, earn a base wage of $6.75 per hour, with tips making up the difference to meet or exceed the state minimum wage which is currently $15 per hour.
Question 5 would incrementally raise the tipped minimum wage over five years until it matches whatever the standard minimum wage is in 2029.
Tips would be extra. But for the first time, restaurants would also be allowed to pool and share those tips with cooks, bookkeepers, and other back-of-the-house workers who aren’t allowed, by current law, to share in those tips.
If Question 5 passes, Massachusetts would be one of just seven states without a tipped wage credit.
Why we recommend voting “NO”:
Independent local restaurants are more than just eateries; they are cornerstones of our community’s economic and social fabric. As economic catalysts, they drive foot traffic, benefiting neighboring businesses and shaping our downtowns and business districts. Their presence can influence where people and companies choose to settle, defining the region’s character. Restaurants serve as workforce developers, providing crucial first jobs and sustainable careers, while supporting a network of local suppliers, farms and other businesses. Moreover, the meal and property taxes generated contribute substantially to funding essential municipal services and schools. In essence, our local restaurants are integral to the economic vitality and social wellbeing of our communities.
This change could significantly impact our restaurant and hospitality businesses, which are vital to our local economy and would come at a time when their industry, which has always operated on thin margins, is still rebounding from the pandemic, coping with inflation and high credit card fees, wrestling with soaring energy and insurance costs, and adapting to changes in dining habits in a work-from-home economy.
The increased labor costs may force restaurants to raise prices, reduce staff, or limit hours of operation, potentially leading to job losses and reduced economic activity.
It could potentially lead to reduced overall compensation for tipped workers if customers tip less in response to higher prices or the perception that tipping is no longer necessary.
The current system allows for flexibility and can result in higher earnings for skilled service workers during peak hours.
The concerns raised by our independent restaurant owners about possible business closures and layoffs if Question 5 passes extend beyond their industry, it could potentially affect suppliers, local tax revenues, and the broader economic stability of our communities.
The Chamber also believes complex issues, such as education standards and wage structures, are best addressed through the legislative process rather than ballot referendums. The legislative process is a more deliberative process that allows for a more thorough debate and discussion of the nuances of these issues. It also provides the ability to make amendments and adjustments based on expert testimony and stakeholder input and provides greater flexibility to respond to changing economic conditions or unintended consequences.
Ballot referendums, while an important part of our democratic process, can sometimes oversimplify complex issues and lack the flexibility needed to address unintended consequences.
How the Chamber reached its conclusion
As the general election ballot questions were announced, Chamber members shared their concerns with us about the issues, specifically those related to Question 2 and Question 5. After listening to our members concerns, we compared our current policy positions with the ballot questions. We also engaged in thoughtful discussions with those who work in our restaurants and public schools, and reviewed research on these topics with our Government Affairs Committee, which represents a diverse cross-section of our membership. The committee’s recommendations were then presented to our board of directors for approval.
While all opinions expressed throughout the review were taken into consideration, this process also ensured we understood the diverse views and voices within our business community. As our policy is to lead through consensus rather than unanimity, we are able to represent the broader interests of our membership and communities.
Ultimately, the board concluded both Question 2 and Question 5 would have numerous negative consequences for our region, thus resulting in urging members to vote “NO” on Question 2 and Question 5.
We encourage all Chamber members to carefully consider these issues and their potential impact on our students and the business community. The Chamber believes maintaining educational standards and preserving the current tipped wage system are important for the continued growth and prosperity of our region.
We welcome your thoughts and feedback on these positions. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns by contacting Travis Condon, Public Affairs Manager, at 978.353.7600 ext. 224 or via email at .
*Source: Massachusetts Board of Elementary and Secondary Education
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce near me | Massachusetts Business | New England Town | Blog | Legislative Issues | MCAS Graduation Requirement | Vote NO on Question 2| Vote NO on Question 5 | Elected Officials | Question 5 | Massachusetts Ballot Question | Tipped Employee Wages | Local Economy Impact | Business Community | Public Affairs | Local Business
MEMBER TO MEMBER OFFERS: Based on your valuable feedback, we have rebranded our Member to Member discount program as Member to Member Offers. This change reflects our commitment to providing greater flexibility for our diverse membership. We ask that offers posted on the Member to Member Offers page be exclusive or near-exclusive to our members. To post your offer, please contact Maureen Babcock at .
This program is intended to encourage member to member commerce, helping you save money while increasing your business visibility and promoting new opportunities within our network. By participating, you’ll not only benefit from cost savings but also contribute to the growth of our business community.
FAÇADE GRANTS BOOST DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION: In June, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC), the Chamber’s economic development arm, awarded $36,000 in grant funding to Fitchburg, Gardner, and Leominster. This investment supports local façade improvement programs, enabling businesses in targeted areas to enhance their exteriors.
Since 2022, the NCMDC has contributed a total of $146,000 towards façade improvements, playing a crucial role in revitalizing downtown business districts across the region’s three largest cities. This initiative aligns with the One North Central Economic Development Plan, which prioritizes downtown revitalization.
This successful public-private partnership demonstrates our commitment to fostering vibrant, attractive urban centers in North Central Massachusetts.
STAFF DEVELOPMENT: In August, Travis Condon, our Public Affairs Manager, completed his third year at the US Chamber’s Northeast Institute for Organization Management (IOM). This prestigious four-year program offers intensive training for chamber and association professionals, covering crucial topics such as advocacy, media relations, membership strategies, finance, legal issues, and human resources. IOM’s curriculum, delivered by university professors, industry experts, and leading practitioners, provides invaluable insights and networking opportunities with peers nationwide. Travis’s ongoing participation reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of chamber industry best practices.
Further demonstrating our dedication to excellence, Chamber President & CEO Roy Nascimento and Tracy Gagnon, Manager of Membership Recruitment & Engagement, attended the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives National Convention in Dallas this July. This event allowed them to connect with other chamber leaders and stay informed on industry best practices.
As a testament to our Chamber’s outstanding performance, Roy Nascimento, representing last year’s Chamber of the Year, also participated as a judge while at the convention in the esteemed 2024 national Chamber of the Year Award competition.
These professional development initiatives ensure that our team remains well-equipped to serve our members and community with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.
BUSINESS ASSISTANCE: Our team has provided 2,413 hours of direct technical assistance to existing and start-up businesses in the region. We’re also participating in a 9-month Northeast Transition Initiative (NETI) fellowship to support businesses in exit planning and exploring employee ownership options. This program aims to retain jobs through successful exit strategies. In July, we surveyed businesses to identify suitable candidates for this initiative.
WORKNORTHCENTRAL.COM: Our online jobs board, WorkNorthCentral.com, continues to be a vital tool for Chamber members. From January 1 to July 31, 2024, we’ve seen impressive engagement with over 1,100 job opportunities posted and more than 14,500 page views. To extend our reach, we also share these listings on our dedicated Work North Central Facebook page.
As a reminder, postings are complimentary for members. You can easily post your employment opportunities directly at WorkNorthCentral.com. Alternatively, email your listings to Sabbra Reyes at , and she’ll be happy to post them for you.
Take advantage of this powerful platform to connect with top talent in our region. Post your job openings today and tap into our growing network of job seekers!
LATINX OUTREACH: The Chamber is actively expanding its outreach to the Latinx community through several key initiatives. As part of our community engagement efforts, we participated in the local Uruguayan Festival in August and plan to have a presence at the inaugural Fitchburg Latino Festival in late September.
To further strengthen our connection with Latinx businesses, we have established a new Latino Leadership Committee. This advisory group comprises 12 committed Latino business leaders from North Central Massachusetts. Their insights will be invaluable in guiding our efforts to develop programs that effectively engage and support the Latinx business community.
With input from the Latino Leadership Committee, we aim to create and implement initiatives that address the specific needs and opportunities within the Latinx business sector. These efforts underscore our commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive business environment that reflects and serves all communities in North Central Massachusetts.
SOLAR INITIATIVE: Our Pleasant Street solar field, launched in August 2014, continues to deliver significant benefits to participating manufacturers. As of July, 2024 the initiative has produced 14,230,226 kWh of Net Metering Credits to the manufacturers participating in the program and a collective savings of $3,271,920 to participants.
This innovative program not only promotes sustainable energy practices but also contributes substantially to cost reduction for local businesses. As we celebrate a decade of operation, these figures underscore the long-term economic and environmental impact of our solar initiative.
GIFT CARD PROGRAM: We currently have 33 members merchants that are participating in the Gift Local eGift Card program. Since January 1, we have sold 56 gift cards valued at $2,400. During the same timeframe, 46 cards valued at $1,486.61 were redeemed at participating small businesses.
We’re gearing up for the holiday season, our peak sales period, and actively recruiting additional merchants. Participation is free. Interested members should contact Maureen Babcock at 978.353.7600 ext. 222 or .
SMALL BUSINESS LENDING: Through August, the North Central Massachusetts Development Corporation (NCMDC) has approved and closed 15 loans for a total of $906,500 for the year, through August. These loans leveraged $50,095 of private borrower funds and from our banking partners.
The majority of the loans were micro-loans made through our traditional lending programs and focused on supporting start-up and existing small businesses in need of capital. The NCMDC has another two loans valued at $90,000 that have been approved, but not yet closed, and a total of $1,198,500 in leads/deals in its pipeline. We currently have a total of 97 loans in our loan portfolio with a total principal balance of $3,090,679.28.
The North Central Golf Tour: Friday on the Fairway at Templewood Golf Course
July 31, 2026
Friday on the Fairway at Templewood Golf Course
July 31, 2026
Templewood Golf Course
Event Start at 1:00pm View
Event
Fore Then Pore: Golf Clinic, 9 Hole Play & End of Summer Bash
August 21, 2026
Golf Clinic, 9 Hole Play & End of Summer Bash
August 21, 2026
The Woods of Westminster
Event Start at 1:00pm View
Event
Sponsors Reception: Old Mill
August 26, 2026
Thank you to all our sponsors who help sponsor this past 2025-2026 program year! We are truly honored by your continued support and efforts to continue to make our community thrive! View
Event
The Health Foundation of Central Massachusetts today announced the election of three new members to its Board of Directors: Leah M. Bradley, LCSW, CEO of Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance; Arthur O. DuBois, LICSW, MSW, a licensed clinical social worker; and Morgan A. Russell, Esq., an attorney specializing in child welfare litigation and real estate transactions.
Five current directors were also re-elected to new three-year terms: Diane E. Gould, LICSW, MSW; Lindsay F. Greenfield, MBA; J. Michael Grenon, CIMA; Kathryn Y. Lee, MD; and Carole M. Steen, MSA.
“We are thrilled to have both new and returning leaders from across the region helping to guide The Health Foundation’s initiatives,” said Dr. Amie Shei, President and CEO of The Health Foundation. “The knowledge and dedication of each Director allows us to be strategic in responding to the health needs of Central Massachusetts communities and ensures that we are optimizing our investments to improve health, address upstream social drivers of health and advance health equity.”
New Board Member Background
Leah M. Bradley
Bradley has dedicated her career to strengthening social services and housing stability across the region. At Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance, she leads a collaborative response to homelessness that fosters long-term housing stability through prevention, quality services, education and advocacy. “It is an honor to join the Board of The Health Foundation,” said Bradley. “Their investments in the community continue to improve the systems of care for people in our community. I am excited to be a voice at the table bringing housing expertise to The Health Foundation’s mission of addressing social drivers of health and advancing health equity.” Bradley holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Connecticut and a bachelor’s degree from Worcester State University. The North Brookfield resident has spent over two decades in strategic planning, system change and program development and her experience in housing stability will bring valuable insight to the board.
Arthur O. DuBois
DuBois, a resident of Uxbridge, is a licensed clinical social worker with a background in supporting individuals with mental health conditions, emotional difficulties and intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Most recently, he retired from working with the Committee for Public Counsel Services as a supervising social worker assisting persons who are indigent. “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to provide input to The Health Foundation and support its philanthropic efforts,” said DuBois. “I am especially pleased to represent the Blackstone Valley and Milford areas.” DuBois’ experience also includes prior roles at Seven Hills Foundation, where he provided counseling for individuals with IDD. He holds a master’s degree in social work from Rhode Island College, a bachelor’s degree from Salem State University and a certificate in contemplative clinical practice from the Smith College School of Social Work.
Morgan A. Russell
Russell, who lives in Berlin, is a practicing attorney specializing in child welfare litigation and real estate transactions. She founded her own law firm and also has experience with foreclosure defense, housing law, adult guardianship and conservator cases. “Being part of a board that is actively working to improve health and expand opportunities for people in Central Massachusetts is incredibly meaningful to me,” said Russell. “I look forward to contributing my perspectives and legal expertise to The Health Foundation and working alongside others who share this commitment.” She earned her juris doctor degree, magna cum laude, from Massachusetts School of Law, where she was recognized for her legal writing and advocacy, and her bachelor’s degree from Worcester State University. Russell’s insights will help the Board recognize the legal hardships that financial security and the effects these deficits have on families in the Central Massachusetts community.
Event highlights a fourth generation family business that focuses on viable and sustainable farming.
The ninth TD Bank Small Business Takeover Initiative will take place at TD Garden on Tuesday, March 11, when the Boston Bruins host the Florida Panthers at 7 p.m.
For the Small Business Takeover, TD Bank turns over all possible advertising “real estate” at TD Garden to a local small business for the duration of the game. This includes the 360 LED screens, dasher boards, video walls, roster card, digitally enhanced dasher boards shown during the broadcast, TD Bank corporate suite in addition to digital support from Bruins social channels.
The March 11 Small Business Takeover will feature Red Apple Farm, a multigenerational family business that includes a pick-your-own apple orchard in north central Massachusetts, a retail stall at the Boston Public Market and farm-fresh fare at Wachusett Mountain’s base lodge and slope-side Bullock lodge.
“Small businesses like Red Apple Farm are the foundation of New England’s economy, and TD Bank is committed to doing all we can to help our business customers grow and achieve their goals,” said Sheryl McQuade, Regional President of New England Metro, TD Bank. “-For generations, the Rose family has welcomed visitors to Red Apple Farm, providing an authentic New England farm experience that creates lasting memories. They were also able to build on their success as a seasonal business to one with a year-round operation with three locations across Massachusetts.”
TD Bank’s Small Business Takeover initiative began in 2017 to promote New England small businesses on a larger scale at TD Garden during a Bruins home game. Previous participants of the initiative include Alternative Transportation Systems, Pain D’Avignon, Energy Shield of New Hampshire, Black Earth Composting, Day’s Jewelers, The Barkery, Bay State Cruise Company and Sunbug Solar.
“The Small Business Takeover has provided great support for several local business over the years and we are proud to continue this impactful collaboration with TD Bank,” said Chris Johnson, Boston Bruins Senior Vice President, Partnerships.
The Fitchburg East Rotary Club invites the community to its 44th Annual Brunch, now rescheduled as a St. Patrick’s Day Brunch after inclement weather led to the postponement of the originally planned Super
Bowl Brunch.
This beloved annual event will take place on:
Date: Sunday, March 16, 2025 Time: 8:30 AM – Noon Location: Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School (Monty Tech) Address: 1050 Westminster Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420
For more than four decades, this brunch has served as a key fundraiser to support scholarships for Fitchburg students and community development initiatives. Guests will enjoy a hearty breakfast, basket raffles, silent auctions, and a chance to connect with friends and neighbors while supporting an important cause.
Admission:
Adults: $18
Seniors & Students: $15
Children under 10: $9
The Fitchburg East Rotary Club is dedicated to serving the local community through various initiatives, including scholarships, volunteer projects, and fundraising efforts to support educational and civic programs. We are excited to bring the community together for this rescheduled event and look forward to a fun morning of great food and fundraising. Proceeds from the event will directly support scholarships for local students and various community service projects.
Join us in celebrating St. Patrick’s Day while making a difference!
Member Spotlight
Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody
When the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”
Discover local business stories through our Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast series. Listen as Chamber members share their journeys, insights, and contributions to our thriving regional business community.
From Chamber events and ribbon cuttings to community celebrations and regional highlights, stay connected with what’s happening across North Central Massachusetts. Follow us on social media for the latest photos, updates, and stories.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore current job openings from employers across North Central Massachusetts on our Jobs Board. Whether you’re starting a new career or making a change, you’ll find a variety of local positions available to help you take the next step.
Got a job you want featured? Click here to submit a job posting to our job board or email . This is a member benefit. Post jobs at no extra cost. No algorithms or budgets to manage!
