U.S. Awards National Grid $49M for Grid Improvements, to Meet Growing Demand

National Grid is receiving about $49 million from the U.S. Department of Energy for a project which will use advanced transmission technologies to help improve grid reliability, increase system efficiency and support growing electricity demand. Officials said, what is called the Dynamic Rating Enhancement Advancements and Modernization, or DREAM, project will improve visibility into transmission line performance, enabling National Grid to make smarter operating and planning decisions and obtain more value from existing infrastructure across the company’s transmission network in Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont. “The DREAM project will help deliver a more reliable, resilient and affordable electric system for our customers by giving us better information to make smarter operating and planning decisions,” said National Grid Vice President of Engineering and Network Strategy Andrew Schneller, adding, “By getting more value from the infrastructure we already have, we can strengthen the grid while helping keep costs as affordable as possible.”

Subject to negotiations and a final agreement, the award covers a four-year initiative, which would begin next year. The award, part of the Department of Energy’s Speed to Power, or SPARK program, seeks to accelerate use of advanced technologies that can expand grid capacity, improve reliability and reduce customer costs.

PrideStar Trinity EMS’s Communications Center Wins Reaccreditation

PrideStar Trinity EMS’ Communications Center has again earned designation as an Accredited Center of Excellence by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. Originally achieving ACE Accreditation in 2017, PrideStar Trinity EMS became the first emergency medical dispatch center in Massachusetts to receive the designation. Today, it remains one of only two accredited Centers of Excellence in the Commonwealth and joins a group of just 300 accredited communications centers worldwide. “This re-accreditation reflects the professionalism, dedication and unwavering commitment of every member of our Communications Center,” said PrideStar Trinity EMS President & CEO David T. Daly. “Our dispatchers are the first contact our patients encounter.

Andover Firm Receives $1.9M Tax Incentive to Create 62 Jobs

An Andover company will receive a $1.9 million state tax incentive in exchange for creating 62 life science jobs. TransMedics Group was one of 38 firms to share Monday in $40 million in tax incentives through the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center. The program is intended to support companies that are expanding research, development and manufacturing operations in Massachusetts. Thirty one of the 38 companies receiving awards are expanding outside of Boston and Cambridge and account for 71% of new jobs expected to be created through this round of awards. Economic Development Secretary Eric Paley joined the Center’s Interim CEO Liz Graham and local officials to announce the awards at SMC in Devens.

Haverhill Chamber Names Damark Woodcraft Business of the Month

Damark Woodcraft of Haverhill is the Greater Haverhill Chamber of Commerce’s September business of the month. The company, formed more than 35 years ago, makes hand-built custom furniture, kitchens, doors and more. It helps clients design homes, offices, restaurants and other settings. Mark Brady, owner and president, incorporated the business with his father in 1991. Damark Woodcraft is located at 115 Hale St., Haverhill.

BrightBridge Staff Take Part in Lazarus House, Sickle Cell Awareness Causes

BrightBridge Credit Union staff supported two causes last weekend—the 2026 Walk for Hope Fall Festival, benefiting Lazarus House Ministries, and Walk for Sickle Cell Disease, benefiting the Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association. On Saturday, the credit union was a $2,500 Walking Partner Sponsor of the Walk for Hope Fall Festival, an annual fundraiser supporting the work of Lazarus House Ministries throughout the Merrimack Valley. The organization serves more than 2,000 individuals and families weekly with programs addressing homelessness, food insecurity, housing instability and other needs. “These events exemplify what community partnership is all about,” said BrightBridge Vice President of Workplace Member Growth and Financial Wellness Glenn Prezzano, adding, “Our team is honored to be a sponsor and to show our support through participation in events that directly support people served by these wonderful and impactful organizations.”

Members of BrightBridge’s Dorchester branch team also took part the same day at the Walk for Sickle Cell Disease in Boston. Massachusetts Sickle Cell Association uses the event to raise awareness of the disease and support for programs and services for individuals and families affected by the condition.

Merrimack Valley Chamber Plans Annual State Representatives Lunch Oct. 5

Area state representatives are asked to weigh in on current issues when the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce holds its Annual State Representatives Luncheon in October. The lunch kicks off with state Rep. Aaron Michlewitz, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Among those invited to attend are Reps. Andy X. Vargas, Ryan M. Hamilton, Frank A. Moran, Tram Nguyen, Francisco E. Paulino, Adrianne P. Ramos, Estela A. Reyes and Dawne Shand. The annual forum takes place Monday, Oct.

‘Tis the Season: Jarvi Productions Sets Dates for Thanksgiving Donations

Jarvi Productions is again seeking frozen turkeys and Thanksgiving fixings to ensure families of Haverhill Public School students “facing hardship can celebrate Thanksgiving with dignity and comfort.”

This year’s annual collection drive takes place Sunday, Nov. 15, and Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 21 and 22, from noon to 3 p.m., behind Haverhill City Hall, 4 Summer St. “This event is about bringing our community together and supporting our neighbors,” said Mike Jarvis, founder of Jarvi Productions. “Every donation, large or small, helps make a difference in the lives of families who may be struggling during the holiday season.

Aroma Joe’s Plans National Coffee Day Giveaways Tuesday

Aroma Joe’s Plaistow Road and South Main Street locations in Haverhill are taking part in National Coffee Day next Tuesday with free 16-ounce hot or iced coffee while supplies last. Those who are AJ’s Rewards members are eligible to receive a free 24-ounce size anytime from Sept. 29 to Oct. 5. “National Coffee Day gives us the opportunity to highlight our amazing beans and celebrate our awesome communities,” said Aroma Joe’s Chief Marketing Officer Carrie Riley.