New Members
Nashoba Valley to get COVID-19 vaccination site in Devens
DEVENS — A COVID-19 vaccination site will be opening in May in Devens, a first for the Nashoba Valley, and one that has been months in the making.The site will be located at Clear Path for Veterans New England, 84 Antietam St., the site of the former Cutler Army Hospital. The site will be open to all state residents.“After months of working alongside Representatives Sheila Harrington and Danillo Sena and Senator Jamie Eldridge and the rest of the Nashoba Valley legislative delegation, it’s wonderful to
Are You Prepared for a Ransomware Attack?
Are You Prepared for a Ransomware Attack? Is the dark web a threat to your business? Download Information Guide Is the dark web a threat to your business? Sadly, the answer is “100% yes”. You see, though you may not know a lot about it, the dark web is becoming bigger. Activity has grown by 300% over the past three years. What’s the dark web? It’s a secret internet that you need special software to access. And it’s where illegal things are discussed and sold – weapons, drugs, and your
Main Street Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Ruth Cavanagh to Senior Vice President Chief Lending Officer
AYER & MARLBOROUGH – Main Street Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Ruth Cavanagh to Senior Vice President Chief Lending Officer, effective on April 5, 2021. In this role, she will be overseeing all aspects of lending at Main Street Bank, including both commercial and retail lending. Ruth joined the bank in 2012 and has over 25 years of experience in commercial lending and began her banking career in 1981 on the retail side of the business. A graduate of the University of Lowell and the
Frequent, bi-directional service moves network closer to regional rail style system
The Spring 2021 schedule provides more trains during the middle of day, offering more consistent service options, and is a significant service increase compared to the current Winter Schedule that has been in effect since December 2020. Responding to rider feedback, weeknight service after 9 p.m. is preserved as part of the schedule change. Bicycles will continue to be permitted on all trains across all lines as part of the Spring 2021 schedule. “The MBTA and Keolis worked to create a service offering
Rollstone Bank & Trust hires senior vice president for commercial lending
FITCHBURG — Rollstone Bank & Trust recently announced it has hired Tony Rakic as Senior Vice President for Commercial Lending. He was most recently with TD Bank, according to an announcement by the bank. Rakic has more than 20 years of experience in commercial banking, working with a wide range of businesses, including retail, wholesale, distribution, contractors, and commercial real estate, according to the bank. “Tony’s years of expertise will greatly benefit our business customers who are seeking
Nashoba Valley Chamber Welcomes Doiron
(Nashoba Valley, MA) – The Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the addition of Ellen Doiron to its professional staff as Manager Membership Services. Ms. Doiron’s primary responsibilities will include leading the Chamber’s member recruitment and retention efforts. She also works in Sales at J&S Business Products (Ayer). Her background includes fifteen years at NEBS/Deluxe Corporation in a variety of sales roles, ownership of a small print business, business development for a
Ladybugz Interactive Agency Hires Kenyon as Director of Customer Success
We are so excited to announce the addition of Billie Kenyon to our team as our Director of Customer Success! Billie will onboard our new clients and make sure their experience with our agency is nothing but Stellar! She will work with the team to build relationships and find clients that are that are the right fit for our little agency. She will work with the team to present the best solutions for our clients needs.Billie has been working in sales for over 10 years focusing on customer relationships and
Fidelity Bank Donated Nearly $450,000 in 2020 through its LifeDesign Community Dividend
Fidelity Bank Donated Nearly $450,000 in 2020 through its LifeDesign Community Dividend LEOMINSTER, Mass – In an extraordinary year of challenge due to the pandemic, Fidelity Bank donated nearly $450,000 to more than 200 worthy organizations, events, and causes in several Central and Eastern Massachusetts communities in 2020 through its LifeDesign Community Dividend, which is money the bank sets aside for this purpose each year. The pandemic was a major focus of 2020 donations, with Fidelity Bank
Baker-Polito Administration’s First in the Nation COVID-19 Pooled Testing Initiative Finds 0.7% Positivity Rate in Schools Throughout Commonwealth
Baker-Polito Administration’s First in the Nation COVID-19 Pooled Testing Initiative Finds 0.7% Positivity Rate in Schools Throughout CommonwealthCommonwealth extends investment in COVID-19 surveillance through the school year and invests in early educator testing BOSTON – The Baker-Polito Administration today announced that data collected from its statewide, first-in-the-nation pooled testing initiative in schools across the Commonwealth found low positivity rates – far less than 1 percent – among
Leominster Credit Union Partners with Fitchburg High School for Financial Literacy
Leominster Credit Union Partners with Fitchburg High School for Financial Literacy Leominster, MA– Leominster Credit Union (LCU) has partnered with Fitchburg High School to supplement their math classes with a Financial Literacy section regarding personal finance. The personal finance course includes units on checking, savings, managing credit, types of credit, saving for college, budgeting and much more! The classes run for 40 minutes and are taught rotating both in-person and virtually, engaging with
What NOT to Pack When Moving!
What NOT to Pack When Moving! Whether you are packing your belongings yourself or you've hired the moving company to professionally pack for you, there are items that you should be sure NOT to pack for a ride on the moving van. Important legal documents and valuables should be taken WITH you when you travel to your new home. These items include: 1.Medical Records and Medications. You want to be sure to have these items handy, just in case you need them en route to your new home or shortly
Fidelity Bank Gives Two Awards to Clinton Resident Helen Bleckley for Exemplifying the Bank’s Values of Doing Right by Clients, Colleagues and Communities
Fidelity Bank Gives Two Awards to Clinton Resident Helen Bleckley for Exemplifying the Bank’s Values of Doing Right by Clients, Colleagues and Communities Leominster, MASS – Several Fidelity Bank employees were virtually honored by Fidelity Bank at the bank’s annual All Hearts Meeting March 9 for their unique contributions during an unusual year. Clinton resident Helen Bleckley received two awards. “It is a pleasure to recognize our caring colleagues for the work they do,” says Ed Manzi Jr.,
Masy BioServices’ expansion of its GMP biopharma storage space in Shirley, Massachusetts is now open and accepting shipments
Shirley, MA, March 18, 2021 – Masy BioServices’ expansion of its GMP biopharma storage space in Shirley, Massachusetts is now open and accepting shipments. This is the company’s 4th GMP biostorage facility in Massachusetts. Phase 1 of the new facility has the ability to house thousands of pallets at USP ambient conditions, 15°C to 30°C. The expansion is the latest step in Masy’s strategic growth, providing dedicated space for the biotech, pharmaceutical and life science industries. “We are an
Tax Day for individuals extended to May 17: Treasury, IRS extend filing and payment deadline
The Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service announced yesterday that the federal income tax filing due date for individuals for the 2020 tax year will be automatically extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021. The IRS will be providing formal guidance in the coming days. Individual taxpayers can also postpone federal income tax payments for the 2020 tax year due on April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021, without penalties and interest, regardless of the amount owed. This postponement applies to
Baker-Polito Administration Announces Transition to Phase IV of Reopening Plan
Baker-Polito Administration Announces Transition to Phase IV of Reopening PlanMassachusetts will advance to Step 1 of Phase IV on March 22; Replaces Travel Order with Travel Advisory BOSTON — Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that Massachusetts will advance to Step 1 of Phase IV of the Commonwealth’s reopening plan on Monday, March 22. The Administration continues to take steps to reopen the Commonwealth's economy with public health metrics continuing to trend in a positive direction.
New State-of-the-Art Cell Therapy Manufacturing Facility Under Construction to Expand Bristol Myers
On February 23, 2021, BMS announced the development of a new cell therapy manufacturing facility in Devens, Mass. The new site, which will first manufacture Breyanzi, BMS’ first CAR T cell therapy recently approved by the FDA, will be completed in 2021 and ready for commercial manufacturing by 2023. Construction of the site will add hundreds of jobs to the local economy with one million hours of work estimated to complete the site construction and certification. Once complete, BMS will hire several
What you need to know about filing your taxes!
Featured Articles for February 2021 Tax Filing Season Starts February 12The IRS begins accepting and processing 2020 tax year returns on Friday, February 12, 2021.What's New for 2020 Tax Returns Taxpayers should be aware of several key items involving credits, deductions, and refunds when filing their tax returns this year.Employer Tax Credit Extended for Payroll Workers Extended through June 30, 2020, the Employee Retention Credit helps businesses keep their employees on the payroll - despite the
Notice of MBTA Spring Service Changes and Public Meetings
MBTA Public Meetings to Discuss Upcoming ChangesFebruary 10, 2021 As you know, the MBTA is implementing service changes in response to the low ridership caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes on the bus network and subway system will take place on March 14th, which will include reducing frequency on some bus and subway lines, as well as eliminating, shortening, or combining various bus routes. The Commuter Rail will also undergo additional scheduling changes, starting April 5th. Ahead of these
Masy BioServices Expands Green Initiative With Completion of Solar Project
Masy BioServices Expands Green Initiative With Completion of Solar ProjectPepperell, MA, February 4, 2021 – Masy BioServices has expanded their green initiative for environmental sustainability by completing a 2-year solar array project, installing 585 kW carports at their headquarters in Pepperell, MA. Due to the expansion of their biorepository, metrology lab, and renovation of its headquarters, Masy sought a solar solution to reduce its carbon footprint and electricity usage. The solar carport design
The Weather is Frightful - Do This to Avoid Frozen Pipes!
Low temperatures bring more than FRIGHTFUL WEATHER! It also can lead to frozen pipes. And, with that comes a host of other problems like burst pipes, leaks, water damage, and more that you will want to avoid. Pipes most at risk are those located in unheated interior spaces such as basements, attics, and garages. But, even pipes running through cabinets or exterior walls can freeze! 6 Tips to Protect Your Pipes from Freezing: Tip #1: Seal up cracks & holes. Seal gaps
Leominster Credit Union Provides Stimulus Check to all Employees
Leominster Credit Union Provides Stimulus Check to all Employees The Leominster Credit Union’s (LCU) Board of Directors voted to approve a $600 Stimulus Check for all LCU employees at their recent meeting. “We know that many individuals have faced struggles and challenges over the past year, in light of COVID-19, and we wanted to assist and support our employees as they continue to navigate through these unprecedented times. We are proud of our employees and the commitment they continue to demonstrate for
Aging well in the Nashoba Valley and surrounding communities
Aging Answers Nashoba ValleyHelpful tips for family caregiversJanuary/February 2021Subscribe. It’s free! Is the person you care for socially isolated? Feeling lonely, anxious, or depressed? If an actual pet is not feasible, research suggests a robo-pet may do the trick, especially for those with dementia. On a matter of physical health, January is National Glaucoma Awareness Month. In our middle article we discuss the things you can do to support your loved one to slow the progression of blindness. Last,
Fidelity Bank Makes Caring for Our Communities Donation of $6,000 to Shirley Based Organizations
Fidelity Bank Makes Caring for Our Communities Donation of $6,000 to Shirley Based Organizations Support part of overall donation of more than $50,000 to help those most affected by COVID-19 LEOMINSTER, Mass – Fidelity Bank is providing more than $50,000 in additional holiday support to more than a dozen Massachusetts food pantries to help people affected by the pandemic. The bank has donated $6,000 to organizations serving Shirley including $3,000 to Clear Path for Veterans New England, which has
Nashoba Valley Medical Center Unveils New Hospital Sign
Nashoba Valley Medical Center Unveils New Hospital Sign Ayer, MA – Nashoba Valley Medical Center unveiled a new hospital sign recently, designed to easily identify the hospital for those in need of care. It replaces the previous sign that weathered and aged. A ribbon-cutting ceremony with the members of the Nashoba Valley Chamber of Commerce celebrated the installation of the sign at the front of the hospital. The new sign is eight feet wide, nine feet tall, and weighs approximately 200 pounds. It has a
LEOMINSTER HENNA STUDIO WILL OPEN ITS DOORS IN DECEMBER
PRESS RELEASE Contact: Mandy Roberge mandy@wickedgoodhenna.com LEOMINSTER HENNA STUDIO WILL OPEN ITS DOORS IN DECEMBER Small woman-owned business ready to thrive despite pandemic LEOMINSTER, MA – After more than 14 years as a henna artist, with humble beginnings at Leominster’s various outdoor stroll events and unforeseen growth in the meantime, local artist Mandy Roberge will open the doors Dec. 1 to her own brick-and-mortar Wicked Good Henna Studio. This studio will be the only shop of its
Leveraging National Cybersecurity Awareness Month for Continuous Employee Training
Leveraging National Cybersecurity Awareness Month for Continuous Employee Training Each October, National Cybersecurity Awareness Month (NCSAM) reminds us just how important IT security is both at work and at home. It’s also a great catalyst for planning your ongoing cybersecurity training throughout the year for employees, because cyberattacks happen year-round. Security awareness training is not a “one-month” thing, but rather an “all-year-round”
LET’S GET ENGAGED!
LET’S GET ENGAGED!EMPLOYEE DISENGAGEMENT One of the most common observations about employees nowadays is that they are disengaged. But, what did we expect? We have seldom created a culture of open and honest communication and as a practical rule, that environment will not invent itself. It can only happen intentionally. Only by creating an atmosphere where employees feel engaged and valued, can we get genuine answers to those vital questions. Companies will often bring in outside consultants to do
Fidelity Bank Allocates $45,000 over 3 years to Partnership with EforAll
Fidelity Bank Allocates $45,000 over 3 years to Partnership with EforAll Leominster, MASS – Fidelity Bank , a community bank headquartered in Leominster with 14 full-service offices in central Massachusetts has committed $45,000 over three years to Its partnership with EforAll (Entrepreneurship for All ). EforAll Greater Worcester was launched on October 1. It is EforAll’s ninth location in Massachusetts. “We strongly believe that this partnership will provide ongoing support to a diverse group of
Golden Girl Receives International Granola Flavor Award
Golden Girl Receives International Granola Flavor Award Shirley, MA (October 14, 2020) - Golden Girl Granola’s Forest Maple granola took secondplace in the “Granola” category at the 2020 Artisan Flave Awards. Organized by theInternational Flavor Awards LLC, the competition included specialty, craft-made artisan granolacompanies from around the world. Golden Girl Granola’s Forest Maple flavor received excellentreviews on an international stage to become a Flave Award winner. Last year Golden Girl
ROBERT KRAFT AND THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS FOUNDATION DONATE $275,000 IN THE NAMES OF 2020 MYRA KRAFT COMMUNITY MVP AWARD WINNERS
ROBERT KRAFT AND THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS FOUNDATION DONATE $275,000 IN THE NAMES OF 2020 MYRA KRAFT COMMUNITY MVP AWARD WINNERS Twenty-six New Englanders were honored by the Kraft family during a virtual ceremony on Oct. 30. Carleton “Zeke” Finch of Fitchburg, Mass. receives $10,000 donation for Habitat for Humanity of North Central Massachusetts. FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Every year since 1998, the Kraft family and the New England Patriots have been celebrating those who give their time to help others.
7 IT Upgrade Options for Manufacturers
7 IT Upgrade Options for Manufacturers It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day of keeping the production lines going and orders shipping out to customers on time. However, equipment, software and processes that may have been serving you well a few years ago, might now be holding you back. Upgrading technology needs to be an ongoing activity if you want your business to stay competitive and secure. Reviews of things like hardware, cybersecurity, and workflow should be done regularly – not doing so may
John O’Brien announces retirement, Barbara Mahoney named as President & CEO
John O’Brien announces retirement, Barbara Mahoney named as President & CEO Leominster, MA - Leominster Credit Union (LCU) held its first ever Virtual Annual Meeting on September 15, 2020. During this meeting John O’Brien, President & CEO of Leominster Credit Union announced that he will be retiring effective, November 30, 2020 after 13 years with LCU. “I have enjoyed my 13 years at Leominster Credit Union as well as my 41 years in the banking industry. The last 7 ½ years as the CEO of LCU has
Take a Hike for Humanity Slated for October 3rd to October 18th
Take a Hike for HumanitySlated for October 3rd to October 18th (Acton, MA) September 30, 2020 – Get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air and get involved in your community by supporting local families in need of safe, affordable homes. The hike is offered over a 3 week period. Participants choose the hike day, time and even location to work around their schedule. Pledge Info 1. Participants will choose a goal for pledge amount. Be ambitious, may be surprised how much can be accomplished. 2.
RCAP Distributes Masks for Essential Utility Workers in Rural Communities
RCAP SECURES 40,000 MASKS FOR ESSENTIAL UTILITY WORKERS IN RURAL COMMUNITIESSourcing and donating personal protective equipment to protect frontline workers providing drinking water, sanitation services and solid waste services in their communities July 27, 2020 – Washington, DC – The Rural Community Assistance Partnership, Inc. (RCAP) today announced it is sourcing and donating 40,000 N95 masks to frontline water operators in partnership with Xylem Watermark and 120Water. The program is providing for the
MASSACHUSETTS CREATIVE AGENCY ROLLS OUT GRAND CAMPAIGN TO BOOST LOCAL ECONOMY
WeArePOA is a creative agency and community development team dedicated to creating a platform where people can do what they love without being judged based on their appearance or status. The company offers a range of solutions and community apps designed to build the Massachusetts business community The company has outlined a strategy to strengthen the local marketplace with modern digital solutions such as a local streaming platform, e-commerce market and social media. Allen said: “We want to shine the
What's the point of a Chamber?
Apologies for "preaching to the choir" - I saw another Chamber post this and loved it so with their permission I've edited and sharing.... When society starts throwing around blanket definitions of which roles are "essential," although we can understand the meaning in this context, I think everyone starts considering their value a little. A Chamber of Commerce is a unique thing. Many people think we are funded by the towns and taxes. Not true. Many people think we are a marketing agency. Not true