Massachusetts Cultural Council Director Michael Bobbitt joined Massachusetts State Senator Jo Comerford (D-Northampton) in Ashburnham on September 15, 2023, to engage with the town's vibrant arts and culture community. The visit aimed to acknowledge and strengthen the importance of arts and culture in the region, discuss the creative economy, and provide an opportunity for local leaders to connect with influential figures in the field. New Dawn Arts Center also thanked MCC Director Bobbitt for being granted a $107,000 MCC Cultural Facilities Grant, a match-needed grant to acquire their historic building.

During the visit, Senator Comerford and Director Bobbitt will embarked on a tour of several notable creative institutions in Ashburnham. The itinerary included visits to Oakmont High School, the Fredericks Historical Piano Collection, Stevens Memorial Library, Creative Connections Gift Shop & Gallery, and Cushing Academy, where they met with arts and culture leaders, educators, and students. This tour allowed them to gain firsthand insights into the town's artistic landscape and highlighted the significant contributions made by these institutions.

The visit culminated in an exclusive invitation-only gathering at New Dawn Arts Center. Attendees had the opportunity to network and enjoy a lunch reception while hearing from Director Bobbitt, who shared his thoughts on the importance of supporting arts and culture in local communities. This event provided a unique platform for local artists, cultural organizations, and community stakeholders to engage directly with influential decision-makers and foster collaborations.