The New Bedford Area
Chamber Focus Business News for and about Members of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
Inside January - February 2016 Message from the CEO ..........................2 Amp It Up! ..............................................3 2016 Legal Holidays Calendar...............5 Good News ..............................................6 Welcome New Members ......................10 Featured Member Discounts ...............13 Connecting Activities ...........................14
January - February 2016
CHAMBER MARCH MADNESS!! The old adage goes that March comes in like a lion and out like a lamb. While they can generally be said is true about weather in New England, spring for the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce is more of an in like a lion and out like a lion. As the snow begins to thaw, and buds appear in the trees, the Chamber gears up for a remarkable array of events, designed to help our members grow, to bring consumers to businesses, to bring important information to the public and to promote job growth in our wonderful region.
2016 Home Show Sponsors
On March 4, in cooperation with the Massachusetts Export Center, the Chamber hosts the annual Seafood Buyers Mission. International buyers from around the globe descend upon New Bedford to meet representatives of the fishing industry, to tour facilities in our working port and to taste the incredible scallops provided by Eastern Fisheries. As all who were involved in the port of New Bedford know well, our great city provides some of the finest seafood for the world to consume.
During the weekend of March 5 and 6, the Chamber puts on its annual Home Show at New Bedford regional vocational and technical school. Featuring more than 70 companies who specialize in services to the home, the Home Show brings annually more than 3000 people over a two day event to meet these fine businesses, to get wonderful ideas for improving their homes and to learn new skills from celebrity chefs, children’s authors and many other demonstrations.
On Thursday, March 24, the chamber once again sponsors Mayor Mitchell’s State of the City Address, wherein the Mayor outlines his priorities for moving New Bedford forward and improving the lives of residents and businesses in the city. This annual event, open to all members of the community, provides the mayor with superb access to the business community and residents as he outlines his view of the year ahead. March Madness cont. on page 14
The New Bedford Area Chamber Focus is the official news publication of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce 794 Purchase Street • New Bedford, MA 02740 508-999-5231 • fax 508-999-5237 • focus@newbedfordchamber.com Editor: Rebecca Laliberte • Photographer: Rebecca Laliberte Board of Directors Chair of the Board David Maher, Lockheed Martin Chair Elect Joseph Michaud, Law Office of Joseph L. Michaud Vice Chair of Government Affairs Kim Perry, Waring Sullivan Homes of Memorial Tribute/SCI Vice Chair of Economic Affairs Beth Sylvia Caldwell, Sylvia Group Vice Chair of Membership Advancement Jeffrey P. Pagliuca, Webster Bank Vice Chair of Community Affairs Daniel E. Waltz, Southern Mass Credit Union Treasurer Carl W. Taber, BayCoast Bank Immediate Past Chair Mary Harrington, South Coast Consulting LLC Directors Nathan Araujo, R4L Management Henry Arruda, WJFD-FM Stephen Canessa, Southcoast Health Systems Hank Conaty, Acushnet Company Stephen W. Connulty, Paul & Dixon Insurance Wendy Cullum, Michel Cullum Associates Ron Ellis, Edward Jones Gail Fortes, YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts Jeffrey Glassman, Darn It, Inc. Ellen Gitlin, Diversified Marketing Group Jen Hartley, Hampton Inn Bob Jackson, Courtyard by Marriott Gerry Kavanaugh, UMASS-Dartmouth Chuck Lord, AHEAD Lynne Mastera, Precix Lynn Motta, BankFive Peter J. Muise, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union Caroline Paradis, Junior Achievement John Sbrega, Bristol Community College John Silva, Santander Bank A. Jack Silva, Bristol County Savings Bank Rober Unger, Unger LeBlanc Nate Weare, Fairfield Inn & Suites Martha Worley, Worley Beds Factory Outlet Director Emeritus Joel E. Burns Your Chamber Staff 508-999-5231 President & CEO, Rick Kidder - Ext. 25 Director of Operations & Finance, Dorothy Botelho, IOM - Ext. 20 Manager of Workforce & Business Development, Ian Abreu - Ext. 24 Supported Employment Network Coordinator, Joanne Rego - Ext. 28 Communications Manager, Rebecca Laliberte - Ext. 27 Programs & Events Manager - Deven Tillman - Ext. 26 Membership Development Account Representative - Alex Paleologos - Ext. 29
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The Power Of Many
The Value of Chamber Membership from the President/CEO In the 21st century, individuals often ask about the value of being a part of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce or any organization seeking to work collectively toward the benefit of the community. Chambers, at their best, provide opportunities for the power of many to assist the individual in pursuit of business goals.
Because of the vast array of businesses represented in the chamber, we become a repository for referrals and for building connections between and among our members so that our members themselves can find creative and lucrative opportunities.
The chamber also promotes many opportunities for our members to learn new skills and to enhance their bottom line through educational opportunities. Our recent agreement with the Economic Development Council brings to our members still more chances to take advantage of no cost workshops and seminars. The chamber’s Friday Forum Value is often defined in both monetary series allows our members who are exterms and in community terms, and a perts in the field to Offer no cost workmodern Chamber of Commerce has the shops at our offices as well. challenge of excelling in both arenas if it is to be relevant to its membership and The power of many also comes into to prospective members. Increasingly, play when one considers the relatively members of chambers seek concrete small voice a typical business has one return on investment as well as poweful attempting to engage in public affairs at advocacy in order to justify dues the local, state and national levels. The expense. chamber, is a central part of its mission, seeks to represent the business In every organization of her kind there community as a larger collective voice are active and passive members. Active for business. Chambers, which once membership produces the greatest were de facto branches of government, results for the member, but in our in- are now independent from government creasingly busy world it is often difficult in terms of funding which allows them to engage actively outside of one’s busi- the opportunity to advocate on behalf ness or on behalf of one’s business as of the business community on issues of one confronts the day-to-day challenges importance to the business community. of growing and thriving. Our organization is no different. We seek easily de- The commitment of the New Bedfined results to justify our activities on ford area Chamber of Commerce is to behalf of our members. work on behalf of our membership and building connectivity, learning new There are many things that chambers skills, advocacy and community can do on behalf of its membership that development to ensure that the South are either insurmountable challenges Coast is the most economically vibrant or outside the expertise of our indi- area it can be. If there are areas where vidual members. Every member has, to we can be of service, we hope that some degree, a different reason for our members feel free to contact any being a part of the chamber, but there member of our team to ensure that we are common reasons that people join serve you well. and remain as members of our organization. One area where the power of many has traditionally been a part of chamber activities is in the area of connectivity.
Sincerely,
Rick Kidder
New Bedford Area Chamber Of Commerce Awarded $10,000 Grant For Increasing Advanced Manufacturing Career Awareness MassDevelopment recently announced 10 partnerships will receive AMP it up! matching grants to conduct outreach and other innovative programs that will educate young people and adults about career options in advanced manufacturing. In the fourth consecutive year of the program, MassDevelopment will provide awards totaling $98,363.40 to the 10 partnerships—consisting of regional employment and workforce investment boards, manufacturers, chambers of commerce and development councils, community colleges, vocational schools, and other organizations throughout the Commonwealth. The lead organizations on these 10 partnerships are: Berkshire Community College (Pittsfield), Cape Cod Community College (West Barnstable), Franklin Hampshire Regional Employment Board (Greenfield), Greater Lowell Workforce Investment Board (Lowell), Metro North Regional Employment Board (Cambridge), New Bedford Chamber of Commerce, North Central Massachusetts Economic Development Council (Fitchburg), Quinsigamond Community College (Worcester), Regional Employment Board of Hampden County (Springfield), and Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School (Billerica). In a complementary effort to promote the attractiveness of careers in advanced manufacturing, MassDevelopment is also holding a second edition of the AMP it up! Video Challenge, which invites students to research the inner workings of an advanced manufacturing innovation and show in a threeminute video how it impacts the world around them. An online balloting tool will allow the public to help determine the winning videos, which will earn cash prizes donated to their schools. One middle school, one high school, and one community college will each win $5,000 in funding for a total of $15,000 in prize money. “These 10 partnerships have developed creative, thoughtful proposals – in con-
junction with industry – to reach students, guidance counselors, and veterans about the great potential of manufacturing careers,” said MassDevelopment President and CEO Marty Jones. “This grant round and the AMP it up! Video Challenge will build on previous AMP it up! efforts to educate everyone about the opportunities in the Massachusetts advanced manufacturing industry and the increasing need for skilled workers to fill these high-paying jobs.” The community-based programs that are receiving the awards include student internships, tours of advanced manufacturing companies, career awareness workshops, teacher and guidance counselor information sessions and externships with manufacturers, and other planned activities. The AMP it up! campaign highlights the exciting, technology-driven, high-paying career options in manufacturing, dispels outdated misconceptions about the industry, and bolsters the prospective employee base for these quality jobs with Massachusetts companies. The fourth round of grants builds on the successes of the campaign’s first, second, and third years.
ing and viable career paths in advanced manufacturing today. The AMP it up! initiative is providing a much-needed service by educating youth, their families, teachers/guidance counselors, and other members of the community about the vastly changed manufacturing industry and the opportunities it presents,” says Joanna Dowling, Metro North Regional Employment Board Chair, and Director of Operations, The Custom Group, Woburn.
technology. “QCC and its partners will continue to outreach to parents, teachers, and career counselors. These individuals have the greatest influence over young adults and adults in career transition and their career pathways. We hope to stimulate creativity, innovation and interest in all aspects of this exciting career field from design to manufacture.” “This grant will allow the Regional Employment Board, the regional advanced manufacturing companies and our educational partners to collaborate to expose middle school students to career pathways in advanced manufacturing, and create opportunities for counselors and teachers to build relationships with industry to support teaching and learning in the school,” said David Cruise, President and CEO of Regional Employment Board of Hampden County, Inc.
“The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, The Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board and its Advanced Manufacturing partners are honored to have been selected as one of the grant recipients of the AMP it up! campaign,” said Ian Abreu, Manager of Workforce & Business Development at the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce. “These important grant funds will allow us to continue our advocacy work centered around careers By: Ian Abreu in this booming industry. Here in New Bedford, Advanced Manufacturing currently makes up about 20% of our local workforce and is considered to be a priority industry. Building off of that momentum, while creating additional “Berkshire Community College is educational and workforce opportunidelighted to have the opportunity to ties for this community, are the primary participate in the AMP it up! program,” objectives of our mission.” said Bill Mulholland, Vice President of Community Education & Workforce “North Central Massachusetts boasts Development at Berkshire Community the largest concentration of manufacCollege. “As our community awaits the turing in the state. One out of every building of the new innovation center five people employed in the region has we want parents, teachers and students a job in manufacturing. This AMP it up! to know that advanced manufacturing award will be a great help to us in our in the Berkshires has an outstanding ongoing efforts to support and grow (About AMP it up!) future!” this critical industry for the region,” said Roy Nascimento, president of the Do. Create. Earn. Thrive. “The Greater Lowell Workforce Board North Central Massachusetts Develop- Today’s advanced manufacturing jobs offer freedom, excitement, and good is looking forward to working with ment Corporation. pay, but companies can’t find enough our educational and industry partners to further develop career pathways in “We are excited for the next round of skilled people to fill these dynamic jobs. manufacturing thanks to the efforts of AMP it up! This initiative has been an With the Advanced Manufacturing ProMassDevelopment,” said Greater Low- integral part of our collective strategy gram, we can help you get AMPed up for ell Workforce Development Board Di- in central Massachusetts goal to address an amazing future. for more information rector Gail Brown. misconceptions regarding career op- go to http://ampitupma.com/ portunities in advanced manufacturing,” “We are thrilled to continue our work said Kathy Rentsch, Dean for the QCC in introducing youth to the many excit- School for Business, Engineering & 3
SouthCoast Young Professionals Network Continues to Serve its Community
G e t t i n g T h e Yo u t h O f N e w B e d f o r d And Massachusetts Ready Through Internships Helps Everyone.
The SouthCoast Young Professionals Network is off to a great start in 2016. In January they held the first edition of Coffee and Conversations. This morning networking event is meant to build business relationships between young professionals in the area. Coffee and Conversations was held at the Way Point Event Center in Downtown New Bedford. Over sixty attendees gathered and enjoyed a delicious breakfast and had the opportunity to network with other young professionals, entrepreneurs, and city officials. The SouthCoast Young Professionals Network is currently scheduling the next Coffee and Conversations for April 2016 and are really looking forward to this much anticipated event!
The Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities (CA) Partnership is a Department of Elementary & Secondary Education initiative that supports college and career readiness for local high students. Through the CA Partnership, students achieve additional learning hours by extending the classroom to the workplace, while providing them with an adult role model to offer support with one-to-one career mentoring. We broker work-based learning opportunities and paid internships for area students and, with your help, we are gearing up to provide paid internships this summer!
In February the SouthCoast Young Professionals also hosted their “Off the Clock Event” on the stage at the Zeiterion Theatre. This unique event blends educational information with networking opportunities. The group had the pleasure of hearing from well known guest speaker Stuart Paap who taught the young professionals specific techniques on how to market themselves. Mr. Paap who appeared on Comedy Central’s Laugh Riots, engaged the crowd beautifully. He interacted with everyone both as a group and on a personal level offering advice and feedback on networking and communication skills. All the attendees took something beneficial from
the “Off the Clock” event which is one of the major goals of the SouthCoast Young Professionals Network. The SouthCoast Young Professionals’ Network strive to help young professionals expand their networks and learn to excel in their careers while attracting and retaining young talent in the SouthCoast region in order to establish the next generation of business and community leaders. For more information on the SouthCoast Young Professionals Network contact Rebecca Laliberte at 508-999-5231 or ext.27 rlaliberte@ newbedfordchamber.com
As a valued employer in our region, we are inviting you to be a partner in this initiative. In collaboration with New Bedford High School, we are seeking paid internship opportunities for rising juniors and seniors who are part of NBHS’s Academies. Through this endeavor, you (your company) will have the distinct opportunity to provide an authentic work experience and shape your future workforce. Typical summer internship opportunities consist of 120 hours of paid work experience which can be tailored to your specific needs. For example, students may work 20 hours per week for 6 weeks, or 25 hours per week for 5 weeks. In addition, these internships can be project-based and several interns can participate on one project. Please join the many Massachusetts businesses that have provided these experiences throughout the state. During FY15, the statewide CA initiative boasts the following outcomes: 10,487 students were placed in internships or other str uctured work experiences. Private sector employers invested $14,690,000 in wages to support student internships.
SouthCoast Young Professionals - Coffee & Conversations photos by Sergio : sergio.az@hotmail.com
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7,677 of students placed (73%) utilized
the Massachusetts Work-Based Learning (WBL) Plan on the job. The MA WBL Plan structures learning and productivity at the worksite and formally connects classroom lessons (MA Curriculum Frameworks aligned with Common Core Standards) to workbased learning experiences. 7,677 of these students (73%) participated in classes/workshops, including career exploration, work-readiness and internship workshops. 2,775 employers sponsored career awareness and exploration activities for students including career days, job shadowing and guest speaker programs. For more information on how your business can assist in providing a valuable work and learning experience for an area student(s), or, sponsor a summer internship placement, please contact the Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership at 508-999-5231 ext. 5, or, via email at iabreu@newbedfordchamber.com
Southeastern Massachusetts Visitors Bureau March/April The Southeastern Massachusetts Visitors Bureau held its Annual Meeting at the Old Colony Museum in Taunton. Members of the CVB heard about the scope of work for the months ahead, including advertising, tradeshows, and travel. The goal of the CVB is to
increase tourism in Bristol County and is supported by Massachusetts Office of Travel and Tourism and local partners. Russell Morin caterers sponsored the breakfast and representatives of all of the chambers you who service partners in tourism were present.
Holidays 2016
New Years Day • Jan. 1, Fri.
Labor Day • Sept. 5, Mon.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day • Jan. 18, Mon.
Columbus Day • Oct. 10, Mon.
Presidents’ Day • Feb. 15, Mon.
Veterans Day • Nov. 11th Nov. 11, Fri.
Patriots’ Day • Apr. 18, Mon.
Thanksgiving Day • Nov. 24, Thurs.
Memorial Day • May 30, Mon.
Christmas Day • Dec. 25, Sun.
Independence Day • July 4, Mon.
for more detailed information please visit http://www.mass.gov/anf/employment-equal-access-disability/hr-policies/legal-holiday-calendar.html
Martin Corry, lobbyist for the Regional Tourism Councils updates CVB members on future funding at the Annual Meeting.
Friday Forums have been extremely well received in the last few months and are currently being booked out as for as May of 2016. These educational seminars are a great benefit to members and allows for the opportunity to gain vital business knowledge from topic experts. Some subjects that have been covered thus far include Business Succession Planning and Programmatic Media Buying. The forums are interactive giving attendees the chance to engage the presenter and get on the spot answers to their questions. Friday Forums vary in all areas of business and truly present information that is relevant to all businesses of any size or industry.
Upcoming subject matters include Starting Your Business in the Whaling City from the Small Business Administration and Marketing products and services to expand your current sales area through the art of contracting from the Massachusetts Higher Education Consortium. Check the events schedule at www.newbedfordchamber.com regularly to take advantage of a Friday Forum that will add to the success of your business. If you have essential business information or an innovative idea that will help companies’ develop and succeed then share it with business people who are eager to learn. To submit a proposal contact Deven Tillman at 508 999 5231 ext 26 or dtillman@newbedfordchamber.com.
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Good News! L a f r a n c e H o s p i t a l i t y BankFive Hires Veteran Banker W i n s S t a t e A w a r d F o r Maria L. Urdi as Senior Vice R o s e b r o o k H o t e l B o s t o n President-Director of Risk and Compliance The Lafrance Hospitality Company received a Massachusetts Economic Impact Award for its development of a TownePlace Suites by Marriott and Rosebrook Events Center in Wareham. The hotel and conference center anchor the A.D. Makepeace Company’s Rosebrook Place development on Route 28 at I-195/I-495. The A.D. Makepeace Company nominated Lafrance for the prestigious award.
The awards are issued annually by MassEcon, a private organization whose mission is to advance economic development across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. President Richard Lafrance accepted the award on behalf of the Westport-based company. He was joined at the awards luncheon at the Boston Renaissance Waterfront Hotel by Renee Dufour, director of corporate and employee relations; Wareham Town Administrator Derek Sullivan; A.D. Makepeace Company President and CEO Michael P. Hogan; Robert Karam, vice chairman of the A.D. Makepeace Company Board of Directors; and Linda Burke, the ADM vice president of marketing and communication. Gov. Charlie Baker was the keynote speaker, telling the 18 award winners and some 400 other attendees, “Thank you so much for aspiring to do great things, and thank you for investing in the Commonwealth.” The Lafrance Hospitality Company won the silver award in the Southeastern Massachusetts category. Gold went to clothing manufacturer Joseph Abboud of New Bedford, and the bronze award in the region went to South Shore Millwork of Norton. Presenting the award to Mr. Lafrance, master of ceremonies Lisa Hughes, a WBZ-TV anchor, said the Wareham hotel created 33 new jobs and invested $12 million in the community. She noted that the company is a major sponsor of the Wareham Oyster Festival and also supports numerous other local organizations and initiatives. 6
BankFive announced that it has hired Maria L. Urdi as SeniorVice PresidentDirector of Risk and Compliance. She is responsible for bank-wide risk management and compliance, as well as oversight of Bank Secrecy Act and Community Reinvestment Act activities. Urdi has extensive experience in risk management and compliance. Positions she has previously held include Vice PresidentAudit, Compliance & CRA at Randolph Savings Bank, Stoughton, Mass.; Compliance Officer-Retail Financial Services Group at Pierce Atwood LLC, Boston; and Senior Vice President-Chief Risk Officer at Slades Ferry Bank, Somerset, Mass.
proud to welcome Chris Johnson as Department, with art supplies being donated their new Marketing Representative. by the New Bedford Police Union and Dr. Chris brings with him over 20 years of sales and marketing experience.Serving as an Ambassador with the New Bedford Chamber of Commerce, Chris is very well known throughout the Southcoast and prides himself on having developed a reputation for building strong ties within the local community. Doug Glassman, owner of the 2 local franchises states “the fact that Chris has a wealth of experience in sales and marketing combined with a history of running an insurance agency and managing a commercial cleaning business makes him a perfect fit with us here at SERVPRO.”
Urdi, of Easton, received a bachelor’s degree from Stonehill College, North Easton, Mass. Following the in-school performances, She is a Certified Regulatory Compliance all children received a free pass to the Manager. Buttonwood Park Zoo. and a special TRAM map to continue the exploration of The HopeHealth Board of Directors motion in animals and music. The zoo has announced today the appointment designated TRAM stops posted throughout of Diana M. Franchitto as president the zoo where children can observe different types of animal locomotion. While at each & CEO of HopeHealth. TRAM stop, a parent can scan a QR code on Franchitto was their phone which will then launch a video previously the performance of our NBSO trio playing president & CEO the musical piece that matches the specific of Home Care & motion of each species (crawling, flying, Hospice of New running, climbing, swimming). E n g l a n d (HCHNE), the While 12,000 students received these special parent company of TRAM passes, any visitors to the zoo can Home & Hospice participate. Care of Rhode The NBSO and Buttonwood Park Zoo Island and Visiting are also collaborating with a special visit Nurse Home Care. In her new role, from Kalliopi Monoyios, a Denver-based Franchitto will lead the expanded scientific illustrator who created the visual HopeHealth organization which includes representation of Tiktaalik. She will be HopeHealth in Massachusetts, Home & traveling to several local schools and giving a Hospice Care of Rhode Island and Visiting presentation on her work at the Buttonwood Nurse Home Care. She was the driving force Park Zoo. Ms. Monoyios will make a special in creating the largest home care and hospice visit to the Gomes School in New Bedford network in Rhode Island which has become to visit with students who are working nationally recognized for quality of care and on scientific illustrations throughout the patient and family satisfaction. school year with Lt. Scott Carola, a New Bedford police officer and talented artist. SERVPRO of Dartmouth, New Lt. Carola’s teaching time at Gomes is due Bedford, Marion & Middleboro is to the generosity of the New Bedford Police
Christopher Wolkowicz.
At the Young People’s Concert on February 29, 2016, the New Bedford Symphony Orchestra will perform the World Premiere of Adaptations in Motion, where over 4,000 student composers, using various compositional techniques, skillfully create musical adaptations that replicate through music the gradual progression of ancient species who moved from swimming and gliding in water to moving, walking or running on land. The concert will also feature scientific illustrations completed by the students, as well as student video interviews and footage collected from our yearlong exploration.
Sylvia Group Welcomes Diane Safioleas to Personal Insurance Team
Dartmouth, MA - Sylvia Group, an agency known for its industry expertise and high level of customer service, recently enhanced i t s P e r s o n a l Insurance team with the addition of Client Manager Diane Safioleas. A lifelong New Bedford resident, Safioleas joined Sylvia Group after 23 years at Help-U-Insure Insurance Agency in Fairhaven, where she worked in multiple roles, including as customer ser vice representative and licensed producer. As Client Manager at Sylvia Group, Safioleas is a primary contact for Personal Insurance service issues, including completion and review of applications, renewal requests and endorsements to ensure they comply with underwriting authority and guidelines. A graduate of New Bedford High School, Safioleas is active in raising funds for organizations and events including the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress, Relay for Life and various programs in support of the New Bedford Police Department, in which her husband, Bryan, is a sergeant. Diane also is a past vice president of the New Bedford High School Hockey Booster Club, which raised and distributed more than $20,000 in scholarships during her eight years in office.
Good News! Branch Mortgage Originator; Jean Correia, business either on the mainland or on A lifelong Dartmouth resident and member island. There are special island resident, of Sylvia Group since 2012, White earned Somerset Branch Mortgage Originator. senior, and child fares available, and the CRIS designation by completing a series BankFive Hires Russell A. customers can book reservations directly Fall River, MA : Ross R. Upton, Bergeron as Vice President, on the Seastreak website.” of five courses designed to provide insurance president and CEO of St. Anne’s Credit Facilities and Security The new route will begin operating with professionals with specialized expertise in Union of Fall River, announced that Donna construction insurance and risk management: Haley has joined the Credit Union as the BankFive announced that it has hired two weekday trips Monday through Fairhaven Office Mortgage Originator, Russell A. Bergeron as Vice President, Thursday and three weekend trips Friday • Commercial Auto, Surety, CIPs and Misc. serving Fairhaven, Wareham and extending Facilities and Security. through Sunday beginning May 27, 2016 Lines. • Commercial Liability Insurance for towards the Cape and the Plymouth area. Contractors. • Contractual Risk Transfer through September 6, 2016. Donna joins the Credit Union with over 25 B e r g e r o n h a s overall responsibility in Construction. • Property Insurance for facilities management, Seastreak offers high-speed catamaran Contractors. • Workers Compensation for years of lending experience, most recently f o r with Bridgewater Credit Union. Donna physical security, and financial crimes services to points in Manhattan from Contractors is “excited to start working with a strong investigations for the bank’s main office, Central New Jersey, seasonal ferry service mortgage team and a Credit Union that is 12 branches and two loan offices. to Oak Bluffs on Martha’s Vineyard, Bergeron has held facilities management and seasonal ferry service to Nantucket active in the community.” positions at Citizens Bank, Compass beginning in 2016. The catamarans St. Anne’s Employees Take Part Bank, and CBRE. He is a resident of are also available for private charter, Fairhaven, Mass. in Credit for Life Fair and special event services are offered year round. For more information, visit Seastreak To Operate Seasonal Seastreak.com or call 1-800-BOATRIDE Fall River, Massachusetts, December Fer r y Ser vice Between New (800-262-8743). 2, 2015: Ten St. Anne’s Credit Union Bedford And Nantucket Direct run New Bedford to Nantucket in S y l v i a G r o u p ’ s J i l l employees participated in their first under two hours begins in 2016 W h i t e Recognized f or Credit for Life Fair of this school year Professional Achievement, The on Wednesday, December 2nd at Greater Civic Commitment Express has a new course plotted, and will New Bedford Regional Vocational New VP of Downtown New Bedford be providing seasonal passenger service Technical High School. Credit for Life earns construction insurance designation between New Bedford and Nantucket in Fairs teach Junior class students the basics Dartmouth, MA - Amid preparations for one under two hours! of budgeting and managing credit through of New Bedford’s most popular festivals a fun, interactive exercise. Students earlier this fall, Jill White also was James Barker, Seastreak President, said are assigned incomes and credit scores, immersed in a demanding professional “Seastreak is delighted to announce dictated by their grades and attendance, the inauguration of the New Bedford- education program. and then have to create a monthly budget Nantucket ferry connection. It is an by visiting different booths at the fair that indication of our continuing growth in the With White serving on the event pertain to the various aspects of life, such level of service we provide and a renewal committee and coordinating volunteers, of the historical relationship that exists the New Bedford Seaport Chowder as housing, transportation, groceries, and between the island of Nantucket and the Festival on October 18 drew about 3,000 insurance to name just a few. St. Anne’s Whaling City. The benefits are across the visitors to the waterfront to sample food employees act as “credit counselors” board for all of our constituencies. Our from more than 20 SouthCoast restaurants during these fairs and are available to pr passengers can avoid the stress of sitting and raised close to $17,000 for Shown in the picture are: (Top picture, left in Cape traffic, Downtown New Bedford, Inc. to promote to right) Stephen Parr, Commercial Loan and Cape roads and support local businesses. Ten days Officer; Donna Haley, Fairhaven Branch are relieved of later, she was installed as Vice President Mortgage Originator; Mary Camara, traffic congestion of Downtown New Bedford and chair of Human Resources Assistant; Kayleigh during the summer all the organization’s events, adding to her Holt, Marketing Assistant; Andrew Olejarz, months. ” role on its board of directors. Information Security Officer; Linda Morad, Senior Business Development Specialist; “We are pleased And the professional education program? Elizabeth Teixeira, New Bedford Branch with the Steamship On November 17, White received her A u t h o r i t y ’ s Construction Risk and Insurance Specialist Do you have good news to share? Head Teller; Kelly Baldwin, Marketing & decision to allow (CRIS) certificate from the International Risk Please send your press releases with photos CRA Officer. to focus@newbedfordchamber.com the expanded Management Institute (IRMI), adding to a list Due to space limitations, we can not guarantee service,” John Silvia, Seastreak Operations of credentials that make her a highly respected (Bottom picture, at the table left to right) each article will be printed. We do try our best to Linda Morad, Senior Business Development Manager, stated. “The schedule will allow Commercial Lines Account Executive with fit as much member news in as possible. residents of Nantucket and visitors alike area insurance, employee benefits and financial Specialist; Andrew Olejarz, Information to travel round trip in one day and conduct planning leader Sylvia Group. Security Officer; Tim Souza, New Bedford
Donna Haley joins St. Anne’s as Fairhaven Originator
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Join Us on a Trip to Cuba! (filling up fast) September 8-15, 2016
The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce announced that it is offering a trip to Cuba in September, 2016 for members of the organization and their friends and families. This trip is popular and Is nearly sold out.
There is an information session Thursday, March 17, 2016, from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm At the Chamber offices contact Ian Abreu for info. iabreu@newbedfordchamber.com or call 508-999-5231, ext. 24.
The six-day, seven-night trip runs from September 8 - 15th of 2016. The trip is priced at $2,849 per person double occupancy and includes airfare from Boston to Miami, and the international flight to Cuba. The trip includes: one Night in Miami (Marriott Hotel or similar), a tour of “Little Havana,” two nights in Trinidad at the Hotel Brisas, and four nights in Havana at the Memories Miramar. Trip highlights include: 17 total meals, a ceramic studio visit and hands-on pottery demonstration, Manaca Iznaga’s ex sugar factory and estate tour, salsa dance lesson, lunch in a typical Cuban “paladar” (home grown restaurant), visit to the Playa Giron Museum to learn about the Bay of Pigs invasion from a local expert, and a drive though the street of Havana to dinner aboard a classic American Car.
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Also included in this once-in-a-lifetime trip is a visit to a Cigar Factory in Havana and the chance to meet local Cuban artists at their home studio and learn first-hand about their life as independent artists and their unique and revealing perspective of Cuban art today.
ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME TRIP Travelers will also have the opportunity to meet with local business owners and discuss the challenges and opportunities of owning a business in Cuba if they so wish. Price is based on double occupancy. A $500 per person deposit is due at the time of registration and is included in the total fare. The trip balance is due on or before June 17, 2016 (90 days prior to departure). A valid passport is required. Travelers may obtain optional cancellation waiver and insurance for an additional cost. Optional extensions and single supplements are also available. The Chamber is sponsoring this trip to Cuba in partnership with Sagres Vacations; a family-owned full service travel agency and tour operator that is headquarted in Fall River, MA. A full itinerary and additional information about the trip can be found by visiting the chamber’s Web site at w w w. n e w b e d f o r d c h a m b e r. c o m / chamber-trips.
HIGH TECH. HIGH TOUCH. (WE HAVE BOTH.)
Of course we have all the latest in banking technology, that allows you to bank online from anywhere. We also have Barbara, and 350 other employees, who allow you to bank with people. Because you know, online banking is great, but sometimes you just want to bank with a friendly face. High tech or human touch. We’ve got both.
High Tech: BankCoastBank.com Friendly People: 508.678.7641
Member FDIC Member DIF
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Welcome New Members AAM Photography
591 Elm St. South Dartmouth, MA 02748
Havenwood Rest Home 251 Walnut Street New Bedford, MA 02740
Silver City Galleria
2 Galleria Mall Drive Taunton, Ma 02780
COX Media HealthTrax Fitness & Wellness Simply Sierra Jewelry 500 Faunce Corner Rd. Ste. 160 250 Faunce Corner Road 549 John Street #1 North Dartmouth, MA 02747 North Dartmouth, MA 02747 New Bedford, MA 02742-8827
Development Consulting
Solutions
L. J. Rogers Inc. 421 Currant Rd Fall River, MA 02720
The Symposium, LLC
Diversified Developments
Linde North Americas
Toshiba Business Solutions
379 Brownell Ave. New Bedford, MA 02740
LLC 383R Hixville Road Dartmouth, MA 02747
42 Sunset St. Rockland, MA 02370
851 Mt. Pleasant Street New Bedford, MA 02745
2 Hampshire Street, Ste 100 Foxboro, MA 02035-2950
Empire Loan of New Bedford Namra Consulting Group LLC Trio Restaurant - New Bedford 1130 Washington Street Boston, MA 02118
154A Faunce Corner Rd Dartmouth, MA 02747
Equestrian Element
New Bedford Road Races:
131 Hiller Rd. Wareham, MA 02571
Vaultive Santa Run - Ireland 5k - Ft. Tabor 5k Groundwork! Member 14 Meadowbrook Ln 1213 Purchase Street Mattapoisett, MA 02739 New Bedford, MA 02740 (617)-641-6862
Ensemble Events
New Bedford Writing Studios
28 Abels Way Marion, MA 02738
PO Box 1507 New Bedford, MA 02741
Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Residential Mortgage Services 427 Main Street Worcester, MA 01608
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New Bedford Branch 174 Union Street New Bedford, MA 02742-8827
418 Rivet Street New Bedford, MA 02740
Recent Events
1. 1) February Business After Hours at UMass Dartmouth Charlton College of Business 2) Jan. Goof Morning South Coast - Mayor Jim Mitchell speaking 3) Feb: Good Morning SouthCoast - Speaker: Secretary of Education Jim Peyser. 4) Jan: Good Morning South Coast - Speaker: Jim Hunt all photos on this page by Sergio: sergio.az@hotmail.com
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Business After Hours Thursday, March 10, 2016 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
Wednesday, April 13, 2016 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
Hampton Inn Fairhaven One Hampton Way Fairhaven, MA 02719
New Bedford Whaling Museum, Harbor View Gallery 18 Johnny Cake Hill New Bedford, MA 02740
Sponsored by:
3.
Sponsored by:
Register online for upcoming Business After Hours by visiting www.newbedfordchamber.com or calling (508) 999-5231. 11
Calendar of Chamber Committee Meetings
Contact the Chamber office for more information on any of these committees.
January
Ambassadors Council - Thursday, Jan. 7th - 11:30am Government Affairs Committee Meeting - Friday, Jan. 8th - 8:30 a.m. SCYPN - Wednesday, Jan. 20th - 8:30 a.m. SCHRC Meeting - Wednesday, Jan. 20th - 11:30 a.m. Board of Directors - Thursday, Jan. 28th - 8:30 a.m. Chamber New Members Orientation - Friday, Jan. 29th - 12:30 a.m.
February
Ambassador’s Council - Thursday, Feb. 4th - 11:30am Executive Committee Meeting - Thursday, Feb. 11th - 8:30 a.m. SCYPN Meeting - Thursday, Feb. 11th - 5:30 p.m. Government Affairs Committee Meeting - Friday, Feb. 12th - 8:30 a.m. SCYPN - Wednesay, Feb. 17th - 8:00 a.m. The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce Presents
Affordable advertising in the31 Chamber Thursday, March 2016 Focus 10:00 a.m. 3:00 Call the Chamber today to find-out morep.m. at 508-999-5231
Aordvisit m i s swww.newbedfordchamber.com ion is FREE for attendees with a resume!
800.310.9111
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800.310.9111
Jan. - Feb. Featured Member Discounts
Fred’s Auto Maintenance $28 SYNTHETIC-BLEND OIL & FILTER MAINTENANCE* Complimentary 30-point inspection
Places to Go, LLC Transportation Discount on Transportation Service
Up to 5 Quarts of Synthetic-blend oil Oil Filter Top-off all fluids
10% OFF ANY REPAIR WHEN YOU MENTION YOUR CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBERSHIP!
*Up to 5 quarts, passenger cars. Commercial vehicles and trucks not included.
Valid: November 17, 2015 – November 30, 2016 For more information: phone: (508) 858-5121 address: 126 County St New Bedford, MA 02744 email: maandfred@comcast.net
Book With Places To Go ,LLC Transportation and Chamber Members save 5% off you booking. Call today for availability. Total does not include gratuity for drivers. For more information: phone: (774) 202-7756 email: placestogosouthcoast@yahoo.com www.placestogosouthcoast.com
Zero.
Zilch.
Nada.
Buying or refinancing a home just got better.
To set up your discount or to view a complete list of discounts currently available to Chamber members, please visit www.newbedfordchamber.com or call 508-999-5231
Financing Mortgage Loan* • Zero Money Down • No Mortgage Insurance
Ask our Mortgage Lenders about our 100% financing mortgage loan today!
*Based on all Borrowers being members of First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union. Property insurance required. Other low rates and terms available. Single Family Application Fee $425.00 to $450.00 (includes appraisal). All loans subject to credit approval. Other restrictions may apply.
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Member Spotlight: Groundworks Is “Office Space” Re-Imagined! Freelancers, Flex Workers And Others Have A New Option. The saying goes, “Creativity needs space,” and there isn’t an organization in the area who understands that wisdom better than the team at Groundwork! Creative Space. Since 2014, Sarah Athanas and Dena Haden, two area entrepreneurs, have redefined the standard of office culture and business development in Southeastern Massachusetts. Groundwork is the regions first coworking space, located in the Quest Center for Innovation at 1213 Purchase Street in New Bedford. Funded by the Collaborative Workspace Program from Mass Development, in partnership with the New Bedford Economic Development Council and the office of Mayor Jon Mitchell, the foundations of the 21st century workplace have been laid.
In an era of cloud technology and “app for that” solutions, the way people go to work is evolving. Let’s face it, the days of cubicle-thinking office culture are numbered. More and more independent professionals with the flexibility of telecommuting to work are scoping new office environments to encourage their creative potential and stimulate productivity. Home-offices are nothing new but their popularity and practicality lose momentum with their inherent limitations and disadvantages to concentration. Those with the ability to work from almost anywhere are increasingly demanding an escape from uninspiring, distracting coffee shop environments and Groundwork provides the pinnacle solution. 14
Groundwork! is an affordable and inspiring shared office environment for creatives, startups, and freelancers in the Greater New Bedford area. Maybe you have a sales team that needs a field office, a startup business looking for a legal address, or a freelancer working for an out-of-state firm. Perhaps you’re relocating your business to the Whaling City and are seeking a temporary office while you explore real estate opportunities. Every professional, regardless of where the work gets done needs access to the essentials: a desk, Wi-Fi, copier, printer and meeting space. Groundwork offers all of that and more! With their spacious and well-lit work stations and the benefit of working with others in a shared oasis, your productivity will soar in this atmosphere designed to facilitate focus and creative release.
In addition to co-working, consider holding your next meeting or event at Groundwork! Whether you need to meet with a client in a private, professional environment or stage a larger gathering, they’ve got you covered. The large, open floor plan provides an inspiring and impactful professional setting to stage your next event. Are you looking for an offsite facility to conduct corporate team building or other events? Facilitator services are available; give them a call to find out more. Non-profit organizations can even use their space to meet for free!
cost of a cup of coffee a day, there’s few reasons to not consider Groundwork for your office, meeting and event solutions. Full-time packages at Groundwork! even include membership in the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce! If you’re not a member of Groundwork and would like more information, give them a call today at (508) 441-4622 to schedule a tour.Visit their website www.newbedfordcoworking.com
March Madness
continued from page 1 The South Coast Job Fair, now in its second year, is an opportunity for businesses throughout the region to meet prospective talent in the form of job seekers from among the unemployed, the underemployed and others who might seek a career change. More than 60 businesses will participate in the Job Fair this year on Friday, March 31 at the Seaport Inn in Fairhaven. One of the Chamber’s highest priorities as a community organization is to assist those seeking gainful employment to get a good job and to assist our businesses in their quest to fill vacancies and to grow their workforce. None of the events that we put on in the month of March or in any other time in the year could be done without our generous sponsors. Events are expensive undertakings, and the Chamber team works hard to make certain that the events that we do stage add relevance and value for our membership and for the community.
The New Bedford Area Chamber is always available to assist businesses in their growth and to be a community partner to help ensure the continued health of this economic region. Please let us know how we can serve you, our What kind of a premium could be members, as you look to achieve your placed on a business solution like that? business goals. With part-time packages starting at the
ENTERPRISING MINDS by Kaisa G. Holloway Cripps, Better Community Living, Inc. Special Projects Assistant to Ex Director
Better Community Living, Inc. has opened program offices in New Bedford, the heart of their service area. BCL expanded its offices back into New Bedford on February 1, 2016. Established in 1988, BCL’s main office for many years was located on County Street, New Bedford until moving to Dartmouth in 2008. BCL is a human services agency providing support Better Community Living, Inc. has opened program offices in New Bedford, the heart of their service area. BCL expanded its offices back into New Bedford on February 1, 2016. Established in 1988, BCL’s main office for many years was located on County Street, New Bedford until moving to Dartmouth in 2008. BCL is a human services agency providing support to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Programs include residential services, shared living support, day habilitation, employment
services, and a children’s autism program. Better Community Living will host several fundraisers in 2016. The first The 43 Tower Drive office houses BCL fundraiser, a Foxwoods Bus Trip is program staff including residential, scheduled for March 5. On June 20, clinical, in home supports, shared the 17th annual BCL Golf Tournament living, supported employment and the will be held at Allendale Country Club children’s program. The space provides in Dartmouth. The annual BCL Food meeting and individual offices for more & Wine Tasting will be held on BCL’s than 20 program staff and the chief 28th anniversary, September 22 at the Seaport Inn & Marina in Fairhaven. As a operating officer. premier human services agency serving “We are excited about having one main the Greater New Bedford area, BCL’s space for our program employees to fundraisers all have directly supported meet together and collaborate, as well as the more than 100 individuals and their have private spaces to meet with families families through support services. BCL or complete work tasks,” said COO was recognized in 2015 by GuideStar as a Gold Participant for transparency in Tracey Cordeiro. their operations and nonprofit efforts. BCL’s main office at 5 Ventura Drive, Dartmouth will continue to house and Volunteer opportunities with BCL offer administrative services, including include membership on the Human Right the founder and executive director, Committee which oversees the quality Thomas C. Riley, and support staff, of support and services, membership on the Fundraising Committee to assist finance and human resources.
in the planning of events, the Board of Directors which oversees the operation of the agency and Faith Companions in the Bridges to Faith Program and Committee which supports people in their chosen Faith Community. Please contact Thomas C. Riley 508-999-4300 ext 111 if interested in learning more about BCL and volunteer opportunities for join our team. For more information on Better Community Living visit their website www.bettercommunity.com. If you have any questions about the Supported Employment Network or are interested in hiring a person with a disability please call Joanne Rego the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce at 508-999-5231 extension 28.
Date: January 20, 2016 - 11:30am Location: Rachel’s Lakesid in Dartmouth Topic: Generational Differences Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2015 - 4:00 PM Cocktail Reception Location: The Cove, Fall River Program: Networking Event Donations from all SCHRC members for Holiday Toys to be Donated to a local program for children. Bring your gift unwrapped! For more information or to register, contact Dorothy Botelho at dbotelho@newbedfordchamber.com or 508-999-5231 ext. 20. No February Meeting
www.southcoasthrcouncil.com Corporate Sponsor:
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500 Faunce Corner Road Building 100, Suite 120 Dartmouth, MA 02747 508-995-4553 800-466-5939
Rely on the experts you know for advice you can trust. What sets us apart? Our deep investment in our customers, our community, and our employees. And that’s only the beginning. Discover the value.
www.sylviagroup.com
Save the Date 3/5-3/6
Over 100 exhibitors • Over 1,000 Attendees Workshops • Giveaways • and more!
28 th Annual
Greater New Bedford
HOME SHOW MARCH 5-6, 2016
New Bedford Area Chamber Calendar - Upcoming Events State of the City Address Jump Start Your Business in the Whaling City
March 2016 Business After Hours
Friday Forum: MA Higher Education Consortium
SouthCoast Job Fair
April 2016 Business After Hours
March 24, 2016 11:30 am - 1:30 pm
March 30, 2016 9:00 am
Thursday, March 10, 2016 5 pm -7 pm
Friday, March 18th 2016 9:00 am 10:00 am
Thursday, March 31, 2016 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Wednesday, April 13, 2016 5 pm -7 pm
Greater New Bedford Regional Voc-Tech High School Field House 1121 Ashley Blvd. New Bedford, MA 02745
New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
Hampton Inn Fairhaven One Hampton Way Fairhaven, MA 02719
New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
Seaport Inn & Marina 110 Middle Street Fairhaven, MA 02719
Sponsored by BayCoast Bank and Partners Insurance Group
Admission if free with a résumé
New Bedford Whaling Museum Harbor View Gallery 18 Johnny Cake Hill New Bedford, MA 02740
794 Purchase St New Bedford, MA 02742
Free $50 - Individual Member $60 - Individual Non - Member $500 - Table of Ten $1,000 - Supporting Sponsor, Table of Ten
Free for members $25 non members
974 Purchase St New Bedford, MA 02742 Free
Free for members $25 non members
To register for any event or to view a calendar of upcoming Chamber events, visit www.newbedfordchamber.com
www.facebook.com/ newbedfordareachamber twitter.com/newbedfordarea www.linkedin.com/company/ new-bedford-area-chamberof-commerce