Hospitality

O’Brien’s first meeting back at helm of CCC scheduled for October, social consumption hearing delayed

Chairwoman Shannon O'Brien has returned to the Cannabis Control Commission and the agency is delaying the finalization of its long-awaited rules for social marijuana establishments as a result.

Owner of Grafton pub to retire, as new owners come onboard

After 46 years of owning and operating the restaurant, Edward Whiterell has decided to retire.

🔒Q&A: Following tragedy, entrepreneur finds independence through BBQ

After a major personal loss reignited his dream of owning a barbecue business, Jordan El-Qasem launched the HaBBQ (pronounced ha-bibi-cue) food truck in March.

🔒A gathering place for marijuana: Designed to diversify the industry, cannabis cafes are close to reality, although the finances are challenging

Law enforcement and some municipal voices have called for strict regulations for consumption sites. But advocates warn overregulating these businesses will make them stiff and sterile, killing their viability and leaving social equity participants out in the cold

🔒Preparing for disaster: With nonprofits teetering following federal cuts, the United Way has set aside $500K for the next crisis

Realizing federal cuts will impede nonprofits’ ability to respond in time of crisis, the United Way of Central Massachusetts launched the United Response Fund in August.

Goldberg ends efforts to prevent O’Brien’s return to CCC after legal challenge fails

Goldberg's decision to stop pressing the O'Brien matter in court comes days after she announced that she plans to seek a fourth four-year term next year.

Judge denies Goldberg appeal to block O’Brien’s return to CCC

Joe Baerlein, a spokesman for O'Brien, said Goldberg "should stop her wasteful spending of taxpayer dollars in a continued attempt to smear Shannon O’Brien’s excellent reputation."

Milford hotel sold for $3.3M to Newton firm

Amenities at the Sonesta Select Boston Milford include a fitness center, pool, on-site laundry, and a 24-hour business service center. The hotel was built around 1990.

🔒Revolutionary collapse: The rise and fall of the once-largest cannabis employer in Central Mass.

Just four years ago, Fitchburg-based company Rev Clinics was one of the biggest players in the Massachusetts marijuana industry, with its products available in about 75% of the then-200 dispensaries across the state.