E-Newsletter
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.
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
Founded as Nmdesignz in 2011 and rebranded to Attollo Creative in 2024, this Fitchburg-based business is a marketing firm that specializes in Logo design, brand design, websites, signage, photography, videography and social media management, serving a wide range from industries from Non-Profit to Manufacturing.
Leader Nicole Murphy proudly notes “We are the most creative group you will ever work with. If you need something “out of the box” designed for your business, we are the people to call.” She adds “We are focused on quality, not quantity. Our company is small because we focus on providing a top-notch product as opposed to churning out work.”
Nicole loves doing business in North Central Massachusetts because “You get to see your designs in the field every day. If we lettered a truck, we see it drive by, if we designed a logo, we see it in an advertisement, its great seeing our designs help other businesses grow.” “I especially like doing business with local people,” she added when explaining why she likes being a member of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce.
Attollo also proudly supports the community. “We are involved with Non-profits within the NCM area,” adds Nicole, “including the United Way of North Central MA, The Community Foundation of North Central MA and North Star Community Services.”
Attollo Creative shares an office space with one of its beloved clients in Fitchburg. Nicole feels “changing our name from Nmdesignz to Attollo Creative was their biggest professional achievement.” She feels the future is bright for Attollo. “We will continue to grow and provide quality pieces of work that clients love,” she said. “We will be known as the “go to” for any design work in the North Central Massachusetts area.”
Nicole credits her father as her strongest influence in business, “being a business owner himself for over 35 years!” “Also, many of my clients are a strong influence on me,” she adds, “I admire their dedication and passion to their business.”
As a marketing agency, Nicole doesn’t rely on traditional advertising to promote her business. She says the secret of their success is “Word of mouth and the dedication to providing the best possible product.”
Contact information: ; 978.430.1244
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The event will connect students and job seekers with local employers of all sizes and industries to discuss employment and career opportunities available in the region. Employers from diverse industries will be discussing career and employment opportunities for all levels of skill and backgrounds, including entry level, and professional and technical positions in such industries as education, financial services, government, healthcare, hospitality, non-profit, manufacturing and other industries.
In addition, to our main exhibit hall of businesses, the event will also offer various career and training resources available to students and job seekers. Complimentary head shots, campus tours and other informational sessions will be available to all attendees. Other valuable sessions include, resume building do’s and don’ts, interviewing tip and tricks, how to pitch yourself and how to effectively navigate LinkedIn to boost your career. Special sessions planned during this hiring event includes a panel presentation hosted by our Young Professionals of North Central Massachusetts. This panel of successful young professionals will discuss topics such as finding the balance of work and family, best ways to search for a job, dressing for the right job, why networking is important and more. We will also be hosting a high-level overview session of top industries in the region, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and human services.
Students from local high schools will be attending, including Fitchburg High School, Goodrich Academy and Nashoba Tech High School.
“As a leader in helping North Central Massachusetts compete for talent and advance the region’s economic prosperity, we realize there is a critical need to help our local businesses find qualified and skilled talent in order to grow and succeed,” said Roy M. Nascimento, President & CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “This event is aimed at creating economic opportunity, and a strong and diversified workforce for our employers, while providing local students and job seekers the opportunity to meet with a number of employers in one location.”
The Work North Central Career and Hiring Event is an outgrowth of the North Central Massachusetts Talent Compact, a coalition convened by the Chamber and other major stakeholders to address the complex talent and workforce challenges facing the region. The group consists of a group of prominent business, education, workforce and community leaders who are committed to collective action and leadership. The event also complements the Chamber’s WorkNorthCentral.com Jobs Board, which serves as an online resource to connect job seekers and local employers while also improving the talent pipeline and better connect employers to local schools.
Adult job seekers, high school graduates, college students in the community, retired individuals interested in returning to the workforce or anyone interested in learning about full and part-time employment opportunities or training resources in North Central Massachusetts are invited to attend to connect with participating employers and training providers. Pre-registration is not required, walk-ins are welcome.
Free parking for job seekers and attendees is available at Mount Wachusett Community College. Public transportation is also available via the Montachusett Regional Transit Authority (MART) for anyone who may require it. Check MART’s website for more information, www.mrta.us.
For more information on the Work North Central Career and Hiring Event, please visit www.northcenralmass.com. Employers interested in participating and reserving a table at the Work North Central Career & Hiring Event should contact Valerie Bruno at 978.353.7600, ext. 235, to inquire about availability.
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Celebration recognizes American pioneer, folk hero of Massachusetts born in Leominster

Sabbra Reyes, Assistant Manager, Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center, and Diane Burnette, Manager, Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center, are joined by two alpacas and staff from Plain View Farm, Hubbardston, Mass.
State and local officials, and community, business and tourism leaders joined members of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce and Visit North Central Massachusetts to commemorate the 250th birthday of John Chapman (known as “Johnny Appleseed”) who was born in the city of Leominster on September 26, 1774.
While Appleseed was born and raised in Leominster, he is considered the Commonwealth’s official folk hero and an early environmentalist. He traveled for nearly 50 years across the nation strategically planting apple seeds with an eye toward a future market for crops, and sold or often gave away seeds and seedlings to settlers in communities.
Mark Bodanza, a local historian and author of “Johnny Appleseed – the Man Behind the Folklore,” spoke during the event about the history of Johnny Appleseed and its significance not only in the region, but also around the world.
“Johnny Appleseed may be one of the most enigmatic figures in American history,” Bodanza said. “People near and far from his Leominster birthplace, know of his journey. Those treks not only included planting apple seedlings for pioneers but also the spreading of his religious beliefs and minimalist lifestyle. One of America’s most unusual characters, Johnny Appleseed’s legacy speaks to us today as a gentle reminder of slowing down, consuming only what is necessary, and remaining steadfast in one’s personal beliefs despite popular opinion.”
The event was held at the Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center, which is considered by many the gateway to North Central Massachusetts and the last stop before entering Appleseed’s hometown of Leominster.
Those attending today’s event included State Representative Natalie Higgins; State Representative Meg Kilcoyne; and Jonathan Gulliver from the Massachusetts Department of Transportation. Members of the Leominster High School Marching Band performed American classics, and a special appearance was made by “Johnny Appleseed,” who interacted with attendees and enjoyed a slice of birthday cake.
During today’s celebration, a new apple tree was planted at the center to commemorate Appleseed’s 250th birthday.
“While we all have the image of Johnny Appleseed wearing a stewpot hat with a bag on his back spreading apple seeds across the countryside, he also was a successful businessman who helped many new communities flourish,” said Roy M. Nascimento, president and CEO, Visit North Central Massachusetts and the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “Today we celebrate his birth by planting an apple tree for the visitors of our region to enjoy and remember his legacy of supporting pioneers and planting seeds to provide nourishing food for generations.”
The Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center, operated by the Johnny Appleseed Trail Association (which does business as Visit North Central Massachusetts), is far from your typical rest stop. This unique destination showcases Johnny Appleseed’s legacy and North Central Massachusetts’ rich agricultural and industrial heritage through a curated collection of historical items, local art, and engaging displays.
At the entrance, visitors are greeted by a popular bronze sculpture of young Johnny Appleseed, crafted by local artist Peter Cote. The center’s grounds feature 91 apple trees, including three Rambo trees that are direct descendants of the last known tree planted by Appleseed himself. A replica colonial-era home, representative of Appleseed’s living quarters, adds historical context. The grounds also boast artistic benches, including a Johnny Appleseed-inspired ski lift chair donated by Wachusett Ski Area converted into a unique seating area and another hand carved wooden bench created by a local wood sculptor and representative of the proud heritage in the furniture industry.
Inside, the center displays local arts and crafts, seasonal murals, historical items from throughout the region, and vintage Johnny Appleseed memorabilia. A popular gift shop sells local items, including jams, jellies, candy, apple-related products, and a variety of books about Johnny Appleseed and the region’s history.
Perhaps most striking is the “Big Apple of New England,” the largest apple structure of its kind in the region, which has become a favorite spot for visitors taking selfies.
The Johnny Appleseed Visitors Center is open seven days a week, 361 days a year from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It only closes on Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, Independence Day and early on Christmas Eve.
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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
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.
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.
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 
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:
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!
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.
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.
CapEx Facility Services & Construction · Leominster, MA
TaraVista Behavioral Health Center · Harvard, MA
DRS Power Technology, Inc. · Fitchburg, MA
AIS · Leominster, MA