Senate President Karen Spilka: A Holiday Greeting and End of Year Recap

Updates from Beacon Hill & MetroWest Happy Holidays! Pictured: Me with my District Liaisons, Jess and Momina (L to R) at our office holiday party. Dear Friends,    I hope this letter finds you in good spirits this holiday season. Since I last updated you, there's been a lot happening in our community and on Beacon Hill and I'm looking forward to bringing you up to speed on all the great highlights from this year. I'm truly proud of the work we've done in the Senate this year and I'm thankful to my colleagues and our staff for making it possible. The 194th Legislative Session is far from over, but there's plenty of accomplishments to share from this first year alone. We launched the Senate's Response 2025 Initiative to combat actions of the of the federal government that would have a significant negative impact on Massachusetts and its residents. Some actions under this initiative include: The Massachusetts Data Privacy Act, which would establish some of the strongest consumer data protections in the nation. The Shield Act 2.0 to strengthen protections for those seeking or providing reproductive and gender affirming care. Protecting federal employees from residential eviction or foreclosure during any federal shutdown. Protecting freedom of thought in Massachusetts schools and public libraries and safeguarding open access to books and other educational materials in the wake of widespread politically motivated books bans. I'm also proud of the work we've done in the Senate to remove the greatest distraction device ever created' from classrooms. In late July, the Senate passed An Act to promote student learning and mental health, requiring all public-school districts to adopt cell phone-free school policies by fall 2026. The Senate has also passed several timely bills including: Chapter 90 legislation to support our state's infrastructure including roads and bridges. An Act relative to assault and battery upon a transit worker, in response to a rise in attacks. An Act modernizing the Commonwealth's Cannabis laws, which would reform oversight of the maturing cannabis industry. Bills that would increase access to menstrual products and require the disclosure of ingredients. As always, if my office can be of assistance to you or your family, please don't hesitate to reach out at karen.spilka@masenate.gov or call 617-722-1500.   karenspilka.com Want more frequent updates? Follow us on social

Senate President Karen E. Spilka | Massachusetts State House Room 332 | Boston, MA 02133 US

Newsletter was removed for publication here. The web link to the remaining content can be found -> https://karenspilka.com/updates/2025/12/23/2025-senate-year-in-review

Rep. Auchincloss introduces bipartisan, bicameral legislation to force Pharmacy Benefit Managers to act in employees’ best interests

U.S. Representatives Jake Auchincloss (D, MA-04) and Ryan Mackenzie (R, PA-07), alongside Senators Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) introduced the bicameral PBM Fiduciary Accountability, Integrity, and Reform (FAIR) Act. This legislation would establish fiduciary responsibilities for pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) – the middlemen of drug pricing – requiring them to act in the best interests of employees relying on employer-sponsored health plans, while keeping plan costs low.

U.S. Representatives Jake Auchincloss

Currently, PBMs that provide drug benefits for employer health plans often get away with price-gouging because they are not legally required to put employees’ interests first. The PBM FAIR Act would ensure these middlemen are classified as fiduciaries under law, which will help curb hidden fees and practices that drive up what employees pay for their medications.

PBMs are directly responsible for:

• Marking up generic drugs at prices hundreds of times higher than actual cost,
• Limiting patient choice, and
• Denying claims with no or misleading explanations.

This bill reins in bad PBM practices and helps ensure employer-sponsored health care plans are affordable and accessible to all families.

“Instead of looking out for the best interests of employees, pharmacy benefit managers have been hitting them with prescription drug mark-ups, inconvenient pharmacy options, and wrongful denials,” said Congressman Jake Auchincloss. “This legislation puts force of law behind the best interest standard. The PBMs either improve access and affordability, or they'll pay out in lawsuits.”

                                                                                                                    

“Pharmacy benefit managers play a major role in determining what patients pay for their prescriptions, yet they often operate with little accountability,” said Congressman Ryan Mackenzie. “The PBM FAIR Act brings transparency to the system by requiring PBMs to act as fiduciaries under ERISA, ensuring that patients come first. By holding middlemen accountable we can also deliver lower healthcare costs to policyholders."

“For too long, middlemen have used opaque pricing and misaligned incentives to line their own pockets at the expense of employers,” said Senator Marshall. “PBMs shouldn’t profit by steering plans toward higher‑cost drugs or practices that drive up prices. This bill holds them accountable and ensures that every decision they make prioritizes the health and financial interests of the plans and people they serve.”

“Pharmacy benefit managers should be held accountable for their role in raising costs of prescription drugs,” said Senator Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation is critical to ensuring that PBMs are doing what’s best for Americans who rely on lifesaving medication.”

This legislation is supported by the ERISA Industry Committee (ERIC).

“Employers, workers, and families should be able to rely on those who provide services to employer-sponsored group health plans, such as pharmacy benefit managers, to adhere to the same fiduciary duties the employer is held to. That means working to save money for patients, and doing what is right for the plan’s beneficiaries. Today’s unregulated, “honor system” approach is not working. When PBMs are performing services on behalf of the employer, they are standing in the shoes of the plan sponsor and should be held accountable. ERIC applauds Representatives Auchincloss and Mackenzie, and Senators Marshall, Kaine, Grassley, and Hassan for leaving politics at the door and taking a bipartisan approach to clarify this important extension of current law,” said James Gelfand, President and CEO, ERIC.

The full text of this legislation is available ->   https://auchincloss.house.gov/imo/media/doc/pbm_fair_act.pdf

"Haven Hot Chicken” Announces Store #010 In Franklin, Massachusetts

Franklin Location Marks First Store Outside of Connecticut and First Franchise Location

Haven Hot Chicken, the award-winning hot chicken brand “Born Hot. Raised Right.,” announced today it will be opening its tenth location – Store #010 - in Franklin, Massachusetts.  This will mark the brand’s first expansion outside of Connecticut, bringing Haven Hot Chicken’s signature menu of Crispy, Crunchy, Juicy, Spicy chicken (CCJSD) and vegetarian "Not Chicken," THE Sandwich (Food Network, Guy Fieri's "Best Bite in Town" Grand Champion), house-crafted sauces, craveable sides and seasonal limited-time offerings, to 477 W. Central Street.  With an expected opening date of January 2026, this will mark the brand’s first franchise location with The Coop Group.

“Our fuego family has expanded well beyond the borders of Connecticut, and we are thrilled to be expanding operations in New England,” said Jason Sobocinski, President and co-founder, Haven Hot Chicken.  “2025 marked the fifth anniversary of our first store opening in New Haven, so it’s fitting that the time is right for us to further our geographic footprint.  Bringing the BEST Hot Chicken and Not Chicken to new fans is our mission, and we are excited to delight new guests in the greater Boston area.”

"Haven Hot Chicken” Announces Store
#010 In Franklin, Massachusetts

The new restaurant will be operated by The Coop Group with operating partner Jake Dagdigian, a franchise entity formed by owners of several Jersey Mike’s locations across Connecticut and Massachusetts. The Coop Group has plans to open one additional Haven Hot Chicken location in Massachusetts in 2026.

“We’ve admired Haven Hot Chicken’s rise and the devotion of its fan base,” said The Coop Group in a joint statement. “The quality of the product is unmatched, the culture is real, and the brand’s approach to hospitality reflects the way we’ve operated our businesses for decades. We’re proud to bring Haven Hot Chicken to Massachusetts and excited to help lead the brand’s expansion across the state with Jake Dagdigian operating this location.”

“The Coop Group is regarded as one of the region’s most operationally excellent and values-driven QSR operators,” added Etkin Tekin, CEO and co-founder, Haven Hot Chicken.  “Their alignment with Haven’s culture and their recognition of the brand’s product quality drew them to the franchise opportunity, and we couldn’t ask for better partners to work with towards our first franchise location opening.”

The new Franklin store will offer online ordering through Haven Hot Chicken’s mobile app, offering curbside takeout and delivery, limited in-house seating and catering options.  The brand’s philanthropic mission of helping the local community will launch in the Massachusetts market through their beloved “Great Banana Pudding Drive,” which will raise 50 cents for every banana pudding and donate to The Greater Boston Food Bank.  To date, similar fundraising efforts in Connecticut have donated more than $70,000 to CT Foodshare.

Haven Hot Chicken currently operates nine company-owned locations in Connecticut:  New Haven, Orange, Norwalk, North Haven, Storrs, Middletown, Newington, Oxford and Fairfield as well as a food truck for events and promotions.

For more information, follow @havenhotchicken on Instagram or visit havenhotchicken.com.

 

About Haven Hot Chicken

Founded in 2020 in New Haven, CT, Haven Hot Chicken is redefining fast-casual hot chicken with a mission to satisfy the world's craving for something better.  Serving Crispy, Crunchy, Juicy, Spicy chicken (CCJSD) and vegetarian "Not Chicken," Haven is home to THE Sandwich (Food Network, Guy Fieri's "Best Bite in Town" Grand Champion), house-crafted sauces, craveable sides and seasonal limited-time offerings. With a commitment to hospitality, sustainability and community, Haven is setting new standards for the industry - embracing hospitality not only for its guests but its team members in extending industry-leading benefits and upward growth, sustainability in recycling its 100% high-oleic canola oil into airplane fuel and utilizing biodegradable and compostable packaging and cutlery and straws made from repurposed oyster shells, and community through the sponsorship of youth and collegiate sports programs, and other long-term fundraising and donation partnerships.  The company launched its franchise program in late 2025.

Recognitions include ranking #160 on The 2024 Inc. 5000 List for rapid growth (No. 7 in Food and Beverage and No. 1 in Connecticut), inclusion on QSR's 40/40 List of America’s Hottest Startup Fast Casuals in 2024, winner of the 2023 Fast Casual Executive Summit Perfect Pitch, highlighted as one of the “8 Best Hot Chicken Chains in America” by Eat This, Not That and named Food Network's Best Bite in New Haven.

The Franklin Wine Club Exploring J. Lohr Winery: A Holiday Tasting & Education Event

Uncork the perfect holiday season with the Franklin Wine Club!

https://www.meetup.com/franklin-wine-club/

Join us for an exclusive, sit-down wine tasting and educational experience featuring the critically acclaimed J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, a winery recognized as a Top 100 Winery by Wine & Spirits Magazine.

The Franklin Wine Club Exploring J. Lohr
Winery: A Holiday Tasting & Education Event

Discover limited and exceptional wines that are perfect for holiday gifting and elevating your special occasion meals.

Event Details:

·  Date: Thursday, December 11th

·  Time: 7:00 PM

·  Location: Franklin Liquors Wine Room

Featured Host & Wines:

Our evening will be guided by special guest host, Steve Foohey, the Massachusetts Area Manager for J. Lohr. Steve will lead us through a focused tasting of J. Lohr's most sought-after collections:

·  Cuvée Series: Exploring the pinnacle of J. Lohr's artistry and blending mastery.

·  Vineyard Series: Showcasing the unique terroir of their sustainably grown, family-owned vineyards.

·  Estate Series: Discovering the foundational quality and regional character of their portfolio.

These featured wines offer fantastic ideas for your holiday lists and are specifically chosen for their ability to pair beautifully with festive holiday menus. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the more limited releases from this celebrated California producer!

RSVP IS REQUIRED!

For more information about J. Lohr and to learn more about the winery's legacy of sustainability and quality, please visit: https://www.jlohr.com/

About Steve:

Steve Foohey brings nearly four decades of experience in the wine and spirits industry to every seminar he leads. Currently Area Manager for J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines in Massachusetts, Steve shares the stories and craftsmanship behind one of California’s most respected wineries, helping consumers appreciate the character and quality of J. Lohr wines.

Before joining J. Lohr, Steve spent over 35 years with Brown-Forman Corporation, where he managed sales and marketing for some of the world’s most recognized spirits and wine brands across New England. His leadership earned multiple national awards for market performance and brand development.

A graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst, Steve has dedicated his career to building connections through wine education. His approachable style and deep industry knowledge make his seminars both informative and enjoyable, whether for seasoned enthusiasts or those just beginning their wine journey.

RSVP HERE:

https://www.meetup.com/franklin-wine-club/events/312141955/?utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=announce_event&utm_source=link&utm_version=v2&member_id=11498431

Franklin TV's visibility issue not unlike that facing local TV news stations

"Long a safe haven due to a reliable stream of retransmission fees and advertising dollars, local TV news stations are now facing a stark message as their industry faces the same financial pressures as the rest of media: adapt or die.

That’s the message in a new report from Northeastern University’s Reinventing Local TV News Project, which last month released a “survival guide” that urges local stations to prioritize digital-first programming to reach younger audiences that don’t tune into the traditional broadcast. Specifically, the authors urge stations to hire specialists to spearhead newsrooms’ digital strategy and coach their peers on how to bring their reporting to audiences online.

The guide doesn’t forge a silver bullet that will solve the local news crisis, especially in how to replace the decades-long reliance on advertising dollars that is slowly drying up as viewers flock elsewhere for news. But it argues that hiring a digital content producer — a role that the Reinventing Local TV News Project has piloted in three newsrooms, including WCVB-TV (Channel 5) — is a necessary step to avoid being tuned out by younger generations."

Continue reading the article with this 'gift' link ->   https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/12/02/business/local-tv-news-digital-report/?s_campaign=sharetool_copypaste_view

Franklin TV's visibility issue not unlike that facing local TV news stations

Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday, December 4, 2025

Yes, Franklin has it's own radio station -> wfpr.fm. Franklin Public Radio has a brand new schedule for the locally produced shows that fill our air waves. 

It is available anywhere, anytime at wfpr.fm or in the local Franklin, MA area at 102.9 on the FM dial.

Tune in to listen to the following:

Franklin Public Radio wfpr.fm schedule for Thursday

8:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 6:00 PM - Franklin Matters Radio – Steve Sherlock covering Franklin, its local government, services, and events 

• This segment shares my Current Talk Franklin episode with Town Administrator Jamie Hellen ->    https://www.franklinmatters.org/2025/11/talk-franklin-starts-with-summer.html

9:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 7:00 PM - first hour

10:00 AM, 3:00 PM, and 8:00 PM - second hour

Turntable – "Enjoy a fun experience with co-hosts The Vibe and Pauly G sharing personal discussions about a featured rock n roll vinyl record (1st hour) and the best, all music Vibe Playlist (2nd hour)"  

• "The Turntable Show features Stevie Wonder’s “Songs in the Key of Life” Album Hour and live recordings from the Natural Wonder record in the Playlist Hour.   “Songs In The Key of Life” debuted September 28, 1976 at number one on Billboard’s 200 chart becoming only the 3rd album to achieve that and the 1st by an American artist.    Stevie Wonder is credited as a pioneer and major influencer across R&B, pop, soul, gospel, funk, and jazz genres.  Enjoy the R&B fun music of a true music industry icon."

Find the playlist ->  https://tinyurl.com/TurntablePlaylists

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Boston Globe: "Massachusetts considers regulations for home care agencies caring for elderly"

"Doug Hano has struggled for years to find reliable care for his wife, Kirsten, who has early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.

Once a “rock star” in the advertising industry, Kirsten, 58, now needs help with most basic tasks, including dressing, taking a shower, brushing her teeth, and eating. A string of inexperienced or unreliable home care workers, one of whom was present when Kirsten tripped on a curb outside and fell, leaving her requiring stitches, have left Hano frustrated and heartbroken.

“Here I am trying to spend extra money for peace of mind or better service,” he said, “but it’s very clear that the availability of good folks is limited.”

Doug Hano helped his wife, Kirsten, in the kitchen of
their home. Doug has struggled to find home
care for Kirsten, who was diagnosed at
age 53 with early onset Alzheimer's. S
uzanne Kreiter/Globe Staff

In a state where barbers, manicurists, and massage therapists must be licensed, home care agencies providing nonmedical support are subject to shockingly little oversight, despite the profound vulnerability of the people who rely on them.

Massachusetts is one of only four states without a licensing process for private, nonmedical home care agencies, said Harrison Collins, director of legislative affairs for the Home Care Alliance of Massachusetts, an industry group representing about 200 agencies that provide help with the tasks of daily living, including bathing and toileting, household chores, and basic companionship."

Continue reading the article online with this link -> 

https://www.bostonglobe.com/2025/11/30/metro/home-care-massachusetts-senior-alzheimers-regulate/?s_campaign=sharetool_copypaste_view

You can use the four way test too!

"Did you know the story of 4 way test?

You can use the 4 way test too!

In 1932, Herbert Taylor, from the Rotary Club of Chicago (and Past President of Rotary International, 1954-55), saved a failing aluminum company from the brink of bankruptcy by distinguishing itself from its competition by developing his Four-Way Test.

It is a test of fairness, honesty, and integrity in the industry.

Since then, his Four-Way Test has been adopted by Rotary in 1943 to underscore the value of business ethics. The Four-Way Test has served as a moral compass for members and their friends to live by their professional and personal relationships."

Shared from ->   https://www.instagram.com/p/DRC0CyYDaus/

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW): Episode 302 - The Umami King Tim Hanni MW (audio)

Hosts Kim Simone and Mark Lenzi explore all things wine with you!

Episode 302 features "The Umami King Tim Hanni MW"

https://soundcloud.com/user-492543397/episode-302-the-umami-king-tim-hanni-mw

Join hosts Kim and Mark as they welcome a true icon of the wine world: Master of Wine (MW) Tim Hanni. Tim, the first American to earn the prestigious MW title in 1990, shares his incredible journey from chef and retailer to importer and a key figure at Beringer. He explains how his diverse background led him to become a pioneer in sensory and perceptional science, fundamentally changing how we understand taste.

Episode 302 - The Umami King Tim Hanni MW (audio)

The Science of Taste and Wine

The episode dives deep into Tim's groundbreaking work, highlighted in his book, "Why You Like the Wines You Like." He introduces the concepts of vertical versus horizontal models of taste, offering a fresh perspective on how we perceive flavors and aromas. Tim also provides a sneak peek into his upcoming book, which promises to build on these revolutionary ideas. Tim explains his Vinotype foundation.

Champagne and a Master's Perspective

The conversation isn't all theory; Kim and Tim share a lively discussion about the nuances of Champagne, exploring its history and unique characteristics. Tim also offers his take on the current state of the wine industry, providing a candid and insightful look at where it's headed.

Personal and Professional Insights

In a particularly moving segment, Tim opens up about his personal journey to sobriety since 1993 and how he has successfully navigated a career in the wine business without consuming alcohol. This heartfelt discussion reveals his dedication and passion for the industry. You'll also learn why Tim has earned the nickname "The Umami King", a testament to his 45 years of expertise in the science of taste. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a food lover, or simply curious about the world of flavor, this episode is a must-listen.

Find Tim on:

www.winebusinesseducation.com

www.myvinotype.com

Cheers

Kim And Mark

🍷🍷🍷

www.thewww.wine

#WinePodcast #WineAuthor #WineTalk #TimHanni #TheWonderfulWorldOfWine 

https://soundcloud.com/user-492543397/episode-302-the-umami-king-tim-hanni-mw

The Wonderful World of Wine (WWW) · Episode 302-The Umami King Tim Hanni MW

https://www.thewww.wine/episode-302-the-umami-king-tim-hanni-mw/

Franklin TV: The Synthespians Are Coming !

And Hollywood is – Totally – Freaking – Out.

by Pete Fasciano, Executive Director 11/09/2025

Synthespian? Sounds like a strange other-worldly being from a far away planet. Not so. Synthespians are home-grown – by computers. They’re synthetic thespians; actors, created via artificial intelligence systems. You describe the physical traits, characteristics, mannerisms, behaviors and such that define your synthespian’s looks and personality, crunch that data, and digital voila – out s/he pops – in fulgent, totally ready-to-perform form. Background extras – aka ‘Phillip Space’? Digital extras have roamed the background for years. Now they’re ready for their close-up.

Tilly Norwood

Such is the creation of Tilly Norwood; a synthetic thespian entity – a ‘digital actor’ created by Eline Van der Velden at Particle 6. Tilly made her debut in late September at the Zurich Film Festival. Reactions?

If you’re talent, or any number of other production craft positions from the director of photography to the set painters and production assistants –Tilly Norwood represents Artificial Armaggedon. Hollywood’s hyper-reactive fury is raging like a California wildfire, anticipating a scorched Earth future for the industry.

Many Hollywood creatives have their heads in the sand on this. They wail and moan about genuine human emoting, character development, the humanity that visionary directors and ‘A’ list actors bring to the screen – and so on. However, if you’re a movie studio, what’s not to like? Tilly might well be a studio’s dream ‘talent’. She is infinitely accommodating and always at the ready, absent any off-stage drama, histrionics or guile ( – unless the script calls for that). She is as pure as the driven snow ( – if the script calls for that).

My point? We have seen this movie before. Literally – in 1995. Pixar’s ‘Toy Story’ was the first CGI feature-length animation – 30 years ago.. Then as now, the backbone of every Pixar and Disney animation since Toy Story has been precisely about that – Story. The technology wasn’t the star. The story was, and every story well-told is dripping with humanity, pathos, soul, wit, trauma, redemption, and on.

So, where is all this going? Extract Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Micky, Minnie, et al. Insert Tilly. The modern animation studio has 3 successful decades of refining story, preproduction and so on. The CGI production pipeline is mature and ready. Working with Tilly and other (studio created and owned) digital entities who will surely follow will be just another data at the office. In a mere handful of years the difference between a CGI animations and blockbuster features will be –

They call it Tilly Norwood

Another key point: There are already several AI services that will gladly ‘rent’ their ‘Tilly equivalents’ as directable avatars. Because they have been trained by movies to move and speak like humans do in movies, they have ‘life experience’ and can ‘act’. They say what you want ‘em to say and move how you want ‘em to move. Like the fella sed – they can walk and chew gum at the same time ( – if the script calls for that). They are digital virtual spokespeople – able spokes-folks for hire.

Are we at Franklin.TV interested? Yes. Exploring? Yes. Working with? Not quite yet, but perhaps sooner than later.

And – as always –

Thank you for watching 

Thank you for listening to wfpr●fm

And staying informed at Franklin●news

 

Get this week's program guide for Franklin.TV and Franklin Public Radio (wfpr.fm) online  http://franklin.tv/programguide.pdf 

Watch Listen Read all things that matter in Franklin MA

FREE Community Concert @FranklinUMC: Stickman Blue and Kaye Kelly - Nov 18

Join us for a FREE Community Concert @FranklinUMC featuring Stickman Blue and Kaye Kelly on Saturday, November 15, at 7pm.

Kaye Kelly and Mark Hardt (Stickman Blue) are a powerhouse husband-and-wife musical duo whose performances blend soul, sophistication, and decades of artistic mastery. With over 30 years in the music industry, their sound is equal parts heartfelt and refined—an elevated musical experience that captivates listeners across generations.

FREE Community Concert
@FranklinUMC:  Stickman Blue
and Kaye Kelly - Nov 18

Kaye Kelly is an award-winning vocalist, songwriter, and professor at Berklee College of Music, known for her expressive voice, compelling original music, and deep commitment to nurturing the next generation of artists. Her partner on stage and in life, Mark Hardt is a seasoned touring musician and innovative Chapman Stick player whose artistry brings a distinctive texture and depth to the duo’s sound.

Together, they perform original songs rooted in rich storytelling and genre-spanning influences, from jazz and soul to folk, pop, and beyond. They’re also celebrated for their transformative takes on cover songs—breathing new life into familiar tunes with fresh arrangements, unexpected harmonies, and a musical connection that only decades of collaboration can create.

Whether on festival stages, in intimate venues, or curated listening rooms, Kaye Kelly and Mark Hardt deliver unforgettable performances that are both technically masterful and emotionally resonant.

You can listen to Stickman Blue’s music on YouTube.com/@StickManBlueMusic; and, you can find Kaye Kelly on Facebook.com/OneCreativeLife/.

Dale Medical Products of Franklin recognized at 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at Gillette Stadium

Dale Medical Products, Inc. of Franklin, Massachusetts received the Manufacturer of the Year Award for the 10th Norfolk District at the 10th Annual Manufacturing Awards Ceremony held Tuesday, October 21st at Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, MA.  This award is given in recognition of outstanding leadership skills in the manufacturing industry.  The annual event was hosted by the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus, in partnership with MassTech Collaborative and the Massachusetts Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MassMEP).

Jeffrey N. Roy

Dale Medical Products was nominated by State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin), House Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.  Founded in 1961, Dale is a trusted manufacturer of specialty medical devices, known for delivering high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective solutions that enhance patient care. Their products are designed to reduce infection rates, improve efficiency, boost patient satisfaction, and support cost accountability. What sets Dale apart is their unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. With a focus on innovation, they consistently strive to make things better — offering superior quality for patients and exceptional service for healthcare providers. As an employee-owned company, Dale is deeply invested in its mission and people. Their dedication to financial strength, market leadership, and innovation drives their ongoing success and impact in the healthcare industry.

Each year, the Massachusetts Legislative Manufacturing Caucus hosts the Manufacturing Awards Ceremony to highlight many of the Commonwealth’s most noteworthy manufacturers and celebrate their successes as leading manufacturers in the industry. This recognition is reserved for Commonwealth manufacturers that exemplify what it means to “make it in Massachusetts” and propel their industry towards continued growth and innovation. This year, over 60 diverse manufacturers were selected by legislators from across the Commonwealth to be recognized at the awards ceremony. 

“I was proud to join my colleagues in recognizing 69 Massachusetts Manufacturers for their outstanding contributions to our Commonwealth’s economy. Their innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication to job creation, strengthens our communities, and ensures that Massachusetts remains a leader in advanced manufacturing,” said State Representative Jeffrey N. Roy (D-Franklin).  “All of these companies, like my nominee Dale Medical, exemplify what it means to “make it in Massachusetts.”   

“Our state is a hub of manufacturing and innovation,” said Senate President Karen E. Spilka. “From materials manufacturers that ship products globally, to nurseries that bring beauty to homes and businesses, to breweries and distilleries — these are products made with unmatched skill and pride here in Massachusetts. Congratulations to each of the awardees, and my deep thanks to Senator Paul Feeney for his leadership of the Manufacturing Caucus, to Representative Roy, and to all the members who raise their voices on behalf of our manufacturers every day.”

"From groundbreaking work in the life sciences industry, to unparalleled innovation in the production of renewable energy, to the development of game changing technology across so many sectors of our economy, Massachusetts has a manufacturing industry to be incredibly proud of," said House Speaker Ronald J. Mariano (D-Quincy). "I want to thank Representative Roy, Senator Feeney, and the entire manufacturing caucus, as well as partners like MassTech Collaborative and MassMEP for the work that they continue to do to ensure that the manufacturing industry in Massachusetts can continue to grow and succeed."

“Massachusetts manufacturers are central to our economic strength, our competitiveness and our identity as a state that builds what’s next. The companies recognized today demonstrate the strength of Team Massachusetts and how investments in innovation, skilled workers and strong regional partnerships continue to drive growth in every corner of the Commonwealth,” said Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley.  

Senator Paul R. Feeney

“It was an honor to recognize the manufacturers nominated today for their outstanding contributions to the Commonwealth and for exemplifying what it means to ‘make it in Massachusetts.’ Each company recognized at this event is a testament to why Massachusetts has cemented itself as a destination for highly-skilled, transformational manufacturing partners that make cutting-edge advancements, challenge convention and shape our future. Chair Roy and I offer our heartfelt thanks to the manufacturers in attendance, their talented workforces, the legislators who nominated businesses in their districts and continue to be their voice on Beacon Hill, and all Massachusetts manufacturers who continue to transform what’s possible,” said Senator Paul R. Feeney (D-Foxborough), Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Manufacturing Caucus.

“Massachusetts manufacturers continue to demonstrate why this sector is so vital to our state’s technology and innovation economy,” said CAM Director Lily Fitzgerald. “The Manufacturing Awards Ceremony at our annual Massachusetts Manufacturing Mash-Up recognizes the people and companies creating good jobs, breaking new ground, and strengthening supply chains to keep our ecosystem resilient and innovative.”

A group photo of Massachusetts manufacturers attending
the 10^th Annual Manufacturing Awards on
Tuesday, October 21 at Gillette Stadium

“Congratulations to this year’s Manufacturing Award winners. Your innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence embody the very best of manufacturing in the Commonwealth. Manufacturing remains the backbone of our economy, creating good jobs, driving technological advancement, and strengthening our communities. At MassMEP, we are proud to support and serve Massachusetts manufacturers, helping them grow, compete, and prosper for years to come,” said Kathie Mahoney, President, MassMEP.

Formed in August 2014, the Manufacturing Caucus includes 71 legislators from around the Commonwealth. Lawmakers focus on training for manufacturing employees; encouraging innovation by helping start-ups access resources; and expanding apprenticeship opportunities in key manufacturing sectors.