Hospitality

The results of a second investigation into the conduct of suspended Cannabis Control Commission Chairwoman Shannon O'Brien are in and Treasurer Deborah Goldberg was preparing to share them with O'Brien -- along with a proposed February date for the meeting that could lead to the chairwoman's firing -- when O'Brien appealed a lower court.

The bulk of the $5.05 million in federal funds were a result of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden in November 2021. 

Applications for the first grants from a new fund meant to support cannabis entrepreneurs in communities disproportionately harmed by the War on Drugs are due next month, with $2.3 million available to help qualified business licensees with urgent financial needs.

Cannabis Control Commission Chair Shannon O'Brien's challenge of her suspension is now headed to the Appeals Court.

The oldest craft brewery in Central Massachusetts will soon be under new ownership.

The hotel’s new name and branding is a reference to a line of Wellsworth glasses produced by the American Optical Company.

Residents of Great Brook Valley in Worcester are now eligible to receive technical assistance and training to become business owners and employees in the legal cannabis industry.

Central Massachusetts professionals are getting hired and promoted at companies like Mechanics Hall, Mirick O'Connell, MutualOne Bank, and Bowditch & Dewey.

“Hopefully this is a cautionary tale for those municipalities that are still resistant to refunding unsubstantiated community impact fees,” Thomas MacMillian, the legal representative for Caroline’s, told WBJ in an email.

Fundraising continues to grow, with donors and foundations contributing nearly $1.4 million in 2023 for operating support and special projects. That’s up from $1 million in 2020, and $286,000 the year before Beam arrived to lead development.