Worcester Business Journal

32 Worcester Business Journal • January 19, 2015 www.wbjournal.com T he economy is improving. That's the good news. But with an improving economy comes a demand from some workers for higher salaries. In our Flash Poll for the week of Jan. 5, nearly three-quarters – 71 percent – of respondents said their firms have allocated money for raises this year for their staffs, with a near-even split between those that have budgeted less than 3 percent and those that have set aside at least 3 percent. How much have you allocated for raises in 2015? Most companies have set aside money for raises in 2015 Over 25 years of providing Integrated Marketing that works. The PENTA Building | 208 Turnpike Road | Westborough, MA 01581 | USA 508.616.9900 | www.pentamarketing.com COMMENTS: Join the WBJ's LinkedIn discussion group by scanning the code to the left on your smartphone. To scan the code, you need the NeoReader. Visit get.neoreader.com to download it onto your phone. Want to participate in the conversation? B oston will be the U.S. representative bid to host the 2024 Olympic Games. While events in other Games have been spread out well beyond their host cities, the Boston organizers plan to host all their events closer to the city. But should Central Massachusetts play a role? In last week's Flash Poll, 30 percent suggested rowing events on Lake Quinsigamond would be a good idea. If Boston lands the 2024 Olympic Games, what primary role should Central Massachusetts play? Olympic role for Central Mass.? Look to the lake COMMENTS: Rowing on Lake Quinsigamond 30% F L A S H P O L L T A L K B A C K Less than 3 percent 37% (No comments were registered in response to the poll question) None 21% "Lake Quinsigamond is one of the best sprint courses in the world and should be utilized." Providing hotel rooms for tourists 15% 3 to 4.9 percent 25% Nothing; we don't have the flexibility to offer raises 23% "Central Mass. will be key to any effective plan for venues, housing, etc. Boston is already too congested to handle the influx of athletes and visitors." More than 7 percent 5 to 7 percent No raises, but we're planning more bonuses 3% 6% 6% EARLY REVIEW ON GOV. BAKER In his inaugural address Jan. 8, Gov. Charlie Baker made this message clear: "Our administration will work to reduce red tape and streamline regulatory requirements on start-ups and established businesses." In our LinkedIn group, we asked for reaction. We weren't disappointed: "One thing I've learned about Mr. Baker is that his natural tendencies are more inclined towards management and leadership than politics. For a governor, I think that bodes well." LinkedIn group member Joseph Deliso "The more we encourage honorable business to prosper the more we prosper as a nation." LinkedIn group member Greg Aldrich Indoor sports at DCU Center 17% Outdoor sports at a college stadium Other 9% Housing athletes "I hope the Olympic Games do not come to Massachusetts." 4% 4%

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