Chamber Focus July/August 2018 by SouthCoast Chamber

The SouthCoast

Inside July - August 2018

Chamber Focus

Proudly Serving New Bedford and the Towns of the South Coast Business News for and about Members of the SouthCoast Chamber

Chamber Update ................................2 Connecting Activities..........................3 Good News .........................................6 Welcome New Members....................10 Member Spotlight..............................10 SouthCoast Young Professionals.......13

July - August 2018 Featured Member Discount ..............13

New Bedford Seaport Chowder Festival Returns to Pier 3 Sunday, Oct. 7th! The 13th Annual New Bedford Seaport Chowder Festival will be held on Sunday, October 7, 2018 under tents on City Pier 3 in New Bedford. Chowderfest is a signature community event that draws thousands of people together! Enjoy mouthwatering samples of clam chowder, signature soups, and quahogs from topnotch area restaurants, caterers and assisted living facilities. Competitors work hard in perfecting their already delicious recipes for the opportunity to to win the coveted Chowderfest trophy!

Chowderfest has evolved into a staple event attracting thousands of people to New Bedford’s beautiful City Pier. The SouthCoast Chamber works closely with lead sponsor, BayCoast Bank and an army of volunteers planning and preparing for Chowderfest ensuring an exciting atmosphere everyone will enjoy.

If you have a chowder, signature soup or quahog you would like to present to thousands of people at one event, Chowderfest is the place to be! Join the competetion and gain exposure while Be part of the friendly competition by celebrating amongst fellow chowder attending and voting for your favorite connoisseurs. dish! Chowderfest will kick off at noon and the tasting will end at 3:00 p.m. For more information regarding tickets After the tasting portion, the fun sales, sponsorships, or participating in continues with beers from local breweries, the New Bedford Seaport Chowder cocktails, live entertainment, lobster Festival please call the Chamber at 508races, face painting, and activities for the 999-5231 or visit southcoastchamber. com/chowderfest. entire family.

• The Chamber hosted its Annual APEX Awards in May. Read about the nominees and recipients on page 5. • The Chamber is hosting its Annual Golf Tournament. Find out more on page 8. • The SouthCoast Young Professionals Network announces its next CEO Unplug ged event on page 13.

TICKET INFORMATION General Admission Tickets*: $15.00 prior to the event $18.00 - day of $5.00 Children under age 12 Children 5 & under free *early admission (11a.m.) for veterans & up to three guests VIP Tickets $35.00 per person (online only) Includes: Early Admission (11:00 am) Drink Voucher Event VIP Bracelet Tasting Tray/Frisbee Entry to Win Gift Basket Local Restaurant Coupons Available at: southcoastchamber.com/ chowderfest

The SouthCoast Chamber Focus is the official news publication of the SouthCoast Chamber 794 Purchase Street • New Bedford, MA 02740 508-999-5231 • fax 508-999-5237 • info@southcoastchamber.com Editor: Rebecca Laliberte • Photographer: Rebecca Laliberte & Sergio Dabdoub

Chair of the Board Kim Perry, Waring-Sullivan Funeral Home Chair-Elect Ron Ellis, Edward Jones Treasurer Carl Taber, BayCoast Bank Vice Chair of Government Affairs William Burns, Southcoast Health Systems Vice Chair of Community Affairs Chris Howard, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union Vice Chair of Membership Jeff Pagliuca, Bristol County Savings Bank Immediate Past Chair Dave Maher, Lockheed Martin Directors Nathan Araujo, R4L Management Henry Arruda, WJFD-FM Kevin Carando, Acushnet Company Dr. Laura Douglas, Bristol Community College Stephen W. Connulty, Paul & Dixon Insurance Gail Fortes, YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts Jeffrey Glassman, Darn It, Inc. Ellen Gitlin, Diversified Marketing Group Gerry Kavanaugh Rose Lopes, Sylvia Group Chuck Lord, AHEAD Lynne Mastera, Precix Lynn Malasi, BankFive Douglas Rodrigues, JMR & Company Kristy Roussel, Lafrance Hospitality Derek Santos, New Bedford Economic Development Council Carmen Sylvester, Southern Mass Credit Union Robert Unger, Unger LeBlanc Director Emeritus Joel E. Burns Your Chamber Staff 508-999-5231 President & CEO, Rick Kidder - Ext. 100 Director of Operations & Finance, Dorothy Botelho, IOM - Ext. 101 Manager of Business Development & Public Policy, Ian Abreu, IOM - Ext. 105 Supported Employment Network Coordinator, Joanne Rego Communications Manager, Rebecca Laliberte, IOM - Ext. 102 Programs & Events Manager, Deven Robitaille- Ext. 103 Youth Services Coordinator/Tourism Marketing Coordinator, Brianna Alves - Ext. 104 Member Relations Coordinator, Ashley Wojtunik - Ext. 108

A Message from the President & CEO

When is a Grand Bargain Actually a Grand Problem? Legislature’s head at this point, In Massachusetts, politics is and regardless of the feasibility something of a blood sport, of the solution, only getting and nowhere has that been most of what proponents want made more clear than in the will lead to the removal from recent “grand bargain” legislathe ballot. tion to avert the placing on the ballot issues put forth by interWhat is wrong with this proest groups, many with the best Rick Kidder, cess? Mostly everything, sadly. of intentions. These would have President & CEO The threshold to get something had crippling effects on small on the ballot is absurdly low. business in the Commonwealth No policy is inherently all good or all and a chilling effect on the potential bad, but there are reasons that these isrecruitment of new companies to our sues were not put forth by our elected state. The process is broken and must be legislators in the first place. The best addressed, and because some changes they can do is make something “less are constitutional in nature, ironically bad” or from another perspective “less ballot reform may have to be addressed good”. We hire our legislators to make with yet another ballot measure. the best possible policy decisions for The process for placing an item on the us. Sometimes they are right; someballot on which the people will decide times they are wrong, but there are, and the result is relatively simple. First, one should be, consequences at the ballot needs an idea for a problem they believe box if they choose a disastrous change must be fixed that our representatives in the law. are not addressing. Ten registered voters later, the issue is presented to the This year, four particularly challenging Attorney General’s office for review ballot propositions came forward, three of format and an initial assessment of of which would have crippled small legality and/or constitutionality. Then business in our state. The first, the milthe organizers raise the money neces- lionaire’s tax, was struck down by the sary to get 64,750 to sign the petition courts on constitutional grounds, but to place it on the ballot. They need not proponents vow to bring it back in a support the petition, but believe that it more constitutionally acceptable manner. The second, a sales tax reduction deserves a public vote. proposition, would have lowered the From there, the issue goes merrily off sales tax in Massachusetts from 6.25% to the Legislature which may adopt the to 5%, repealing what at one time was question into law, propose a substitute put forward as a temporary measure, or do nothing. Then, the issue propo- but whenever government and revenue nents go out and gather an additional are involved, temporary has a way of 10,792 signatures and the issue goes to turning permanent. And, if successful, the ballot. If there is a legislative sub- the legislature would have sought to restitute, both go to the ballot. Once on place that revenue with some other tax the ballot, the issue goes to the people or fee. The third, the paid family leave who will, no doubt, be subject of well- initiative would have placed a new tax funded campaigns put forth by organiz- on businesses and employees alike to ers and opponents designed to cast the fund a new government entity to ensure issue in its most or least favorable light. up to 26 weeks per year, a kindhearted In November, the people decide – UN- gesture with real financial consequencLESS there is some kind of Legislative es that could have put small businesses compromise by which the proponents out of businesses. The fourth was, for agree to pull off their question from the ballot. The gun is placed firmly at the continued on page 3

A Message from the President & CEO (continued from page 2)

Chamber Invites Members to Washington D.C. Fly-in this October By: Ian Abreu

many small businesses, the most frightening - the increase in minimum wage to the highest in the nation, put forth by union groups with no members actually paid at minimum wage. So, now we have a compromise. The sales tax remains the same but we will have a weekend sales tax holiday in August. Paid family leave has been cut back in length and small businesses (under 25 employees) are exempt from paying in – but their employees will have to pay in. And the minimum wage will go up to $15 per hour, with a gradual phase out of time and a half for Sundays. There will not be a teen or training wage component, virtually guaranteeing that no business will hire young people to learn the importance of work.

es alike. We citizens and taxpayers are held hostage by interest groups, and ballot initiative reform is a necessity in this state. Legislators are wary of addressing it for fear of being labeled as against the will of the people. Our legislators are forced to respond and compromise on issues they might otherwise never have addressed as remedies for the people of the Commonwealth. Our citizens deserve a fair system, devoid of governance by special interests, and we welcome the opportunity to work with our legislators toward reforming the ballot initiative process and allowing them to do the job of fashioning good through a deliberative process.

The so-called “grand bargain” gave proponents most of what they wanted, all of which have very real consequences for small businesses and large business-

Chamber members attended the May 2017 D.C. Fly-in.

cyber security. With a heavy emphasis on networking, this summit pairs essential business tips with opportunities to share your own story with fellow business owners beyond your community and across industries. The registration fee is $200 and can be paid directly to the US Chamber online on their website (https://www.uschamber.com/event/the-2018-small-businesssummit). Accommodations, such as flights and hotels, will be made individually this year as we will not be engaged in any type of group rate package.

The SouthCoast Chamber will be attending the US Chamber “Small Business Summit” from October 2nd – 3rd, and will act as “host” for any of our members who would like to not only partake in the summit on the 3rd but also meet our federally-elected delegation on the 2nd. Chamber staff, Ian Abreu and Rick Kidder, will be more than happy to provide The Chamber has confirmed and se- you with their hotel/flight information cured private meetings with United if you would like to join them. All atStates Senator Edward Markey, and tendees, including those who make Congressmen Joseph Kennedy and Wil- their own travel arrangements, will be liam Keating on the 2nd. On the 3rd, we given the full agenda prior with the will be briefed from the US Chamber meeting times, locations, etc. and industry leaders on topics such as: building your brand, creating a strong For more information, please contact workforce, and getting up to speed on Ian Abreu at: (508) 999-5231, ext. 105.

Connecting Activities Employer Spotlight – Southern Mass Credit Union By: Brianna Alves

Every summer the Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership (GNBCAP) seek employers to provide paid summer internship opportunities for New Bedford High School (NBHS) students as part of the National Academy Foundation (NAF) curriculum. NAF is a national network of education, business, and community leaders who work together to ensure high school students are college, career, and future ready. The participating employer's commitments to ensuring a well-prepared future workforce

in our region will not only benefit their businesses, but will also have a positive impact on our students through these high quality internship experiences.

credit union’s daily operations. The goal of the internship is for the intern to go through all the departments at the credit union and understand how banking within a credit union works. The environment over at SMCU is all about teamwork — SMCU wants to show interns finance is always important for the future! The intern will understand financial aspects such as checking accounts, savings accounts, loans, etc.

program. Our leading employers of the region, like SMCU, benefit from the experience while making an impact on a student’s life. The employers provide students with knowledge of career pathways, which helps them make connections between their school coursework and their futures.” says Brianna Alves, Youth Services Coordinator.

If your business would like to participate by hosting an intern, please reach out to This past spring semester, GNBCAP staff the Brianna Alves, Youth Services taught a Signal Success workshop created Coordinator, at 508-999-5231 or by email by the Commonwealth Corporation to at balves@southcoastchamber.com. NBHS students. This workshop provided students with opportunities to learn Connecting Activities is an initiative of the about core skills, topics, assessment tools Youth Committee Greater New Bedford Workand instructional practices that form the force Investment Board, Inc. foundation of the Signal Success curThe summer intern at SMCU is getting riculum. “NBHS students are eager to experience behind the scenes of the learn more about themselves through this Southern Mass Credit Union (SMCU) continues each year to bridge the gap between classroom learning and realworld work experience through career immersion. These six-week, 120-hour summer internship opportunities provide valuable opportunities with a huge impact on the lives of the students they mentor each year.

Businesses Recognized at Annual APEX Awards The SouthCoast Chamber, Presenting Sponsor BankFive, Small Business Award Sponsor Rockland Trust, and Supporting Sponsor Bristol County Savings Bank are pleased to recognize the significant contributions and achievements of our region’s businesses with the presentation of the 2018 APEX Awards in the categories of Small Business, Large Business, Non-Profit and Educational Institution. Although this recognition ceremony has been around for quite some time, this year was the event’s debut as an evening cocktail occasion held at the Greasy Luck. With over 25 nominees this year, the painstaking task of narrowing down one of the largest turnouts to date was no easy one. Each nominee has played a unique role within the community and contributed to the economic development of the South Coast. Presented with the Large Business of the Year award was BayCoast Bank.

With a workforce of over 300 hundred, BayCoast Bank has maintained the ability to provide consumers, organizations, and municipalities with superior customer service and solutions for more than a century. Their full range of financial services are available at 18 branches throughout our region. They continuously make generous donations and contributions to local businesses and non-profit organizations, volunteer at countless community events and fundraisers and support a range of social initiatives encouraging the enhancement of the South Coast Region. Their consistent growth rate over the last three years is a result of the hard work and determination they employed in successfully meeting the deposit and lending needs of the entire South Coast market.

Since 1851, BayCoast Bank has been Presented with the Non-Profit of providing exceptional service and the Year award was New Bedford solutions to customers allowing business Symphony Orchestra owners, entrepreneurs and consumers the ability to finance ventures and invest in our local economy. The nominees for this year’s Large Business of the Year award included Taunton Federal Credit Union; All American Assisted Living at Wareham; Cape Cod Five Cent Savings Bank and finalists Brahmin Leatherworks and Tegra Medical.

Action Against Chemical Addiction and YOU (Youth Opportunities Unlimited). Presented with the Educational Institution of the Year award was Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech

Presented with the Small Business of As driving force in tourism, New the Year award was Acorn, Inc. Bedford Symphony Orchestra has been attracting visitors to our community while simultaneously evolving into an internationally esteemed organization. While providing lifelong educational opportunities for our community this By focusing on their core mission organization has continuously pursued of providing exceptional classical bold methods to ensure a high-quality musical performances and innovative level of training and education that will educational programs they have prepare the future workforce to become advanced the quality of life within the contributing members of the South region and had significant impacts on Coast community. the overall economic climate. For more than 70 years, this family Servicing more than 2,000 students owned and operated business has been This hard work and dedication have they have evolved into the second largest an example of forward thinking, hard sustained a vibrant performing arts career and technical high school in work and philanthropy. As a driving culture within the South Coast and Massachusetts. Currently they exceed force behind the city’s economic ultimately encouraged countless state averages with a daily attendance development, Acorn, Inc. has remained numbers of tourists to visit our area and rate of 97% and yearly graduation rate prominent within the community invest in the local economy. of 90%. ultimately leading to the advancement of our region as a whole. Over the years, they provided several They regularly make the school’s generous scholarships to local high facilities available to host non-profit After recognizing New Bedford’s schools and colleges allowing students to organization’s events, summer youth potential, they decided to invest in the develop their talents and gain extensive camps, Boy Scout programs and a wide city, redevelop local mill structures, and knowledge. They have organized free range of fundraising events. preserve its historic character. Today, concerts at the Zeiterion Theatre, these properties proudly contribute and in 2017 donated over 350 tickets Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech High over $800,000 to the city annually, to local families and organizations School has created and implemented created multiple job opportunities, and allowing the opportunity for as many countless programs, initiatives and generate business for local vendors. South Coast residents to experience the opportunities to ensure students New Bedford Symphony Orchestra as are aware of the importance of civic With strong beliefs in fostering a possible. engagement and community service. positive environment for residents, staff and the city as a whole, they developed Their success and achievements have The unwavering devotion Greater New events and programs encouraging transformed the South Coast into a Bedford Voc Tech High School has to residents to get involved, interact with sought after destination for top artist to their core values of preparation, passion each other and form a strong sense of perform extraordinary musical concerts and perseverance has established a community. for our residents and visitors from foundation for a unique educational experience. across the globe. The nominees for this year’s Small Business of the Year award included The nominees for this year’s Non-Profit The nominees for this year’s Churrascaria Novo Mundo; Simply of the Year award included SouthCoast Educational Institution of the Year Sierra Jewelry; Gateway Printing; RAPPP (Responsible Attitudes toward award included finalists Lance Soares’ Waring-Sullivan & Rock Funeral Pregnancy, Parenting, and Prevention) Family Martial Arts Center, Inc. and Homes and finalists Servpro of New Program; Better Community Living; Our Sisters’ School. Bedford/Dartmouth and Marion/ Rise Up; New Bedford Homeless Middleboro and Days’ Sports. Advocates and finalists PAACA- Positive

Good News! Jennifer (Tetrault) Ciesielski, CPA has been awarded the professional designation Chartered Property Casualty Underwriter (CPCU®) by the Institutes. This announcement was made by Peter L. Miller, CPCU, president and chief executive officer. The Institutes are an educational organization that confers the CPCU designation on persons who complete eight rigorous courses and examinations and meet the ethics and experience requirements. All CPCUs are required to maintain and to improve their professional knowledge, skills and competence through their commitment to the Institutes’ CPCU Code of Professional Conduct. Jennifer serves as Vice President at Tetrault Insurance Agency, 4317 Acushnet Avenue New Bedford, MA. As an integral part of the Tetrault Insurance Agency team for the past fifteen years, Jennifer's financial background assists both individuals and businesses in navigating the best insurance solutions. Jennifer graduated magna cum laude from Bryant College and is a licensed insurance broker (P&C and life, accident & health). Jennifer resides in E. Freetown with her husband and three children. She is involved in supporting the Salvation Army.

costs associated with acquisition, and reimbursement of homebuyer counseling programs. Borrowers are eligible to receive up to $11,000 on a first-come, firstserved basis, and must complete a homebuyer counseling program and have individual or household income equal to or below 80 percent of the HUD meridian income based on their future address to qualify for assistance. Restrictions apply. Speak to a representative today to learn more.

that Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). Maritime International is proud to have achieved the BRC certification. “This achievement confirms our long term commitment to supply our customers with the highest quality and rigid safety standards through the supply chain.” said David Wechsler, President BRC has been recognized internationally as the leader in food safety certification. As a member of the GFSI, the BRC is committed to continuous improvement of its food safety standards and requires the same Please visit www.stannes.com or stop by continuous improvement from the disone of their branches to learn more. tribution centers they certify. Our Lady’s Haven is pleased to announce that Jo-Ann Melcher has joined our team as the new Administrator of Our Lady’s Haven

As a resident of Somerset, MA, She has a Bachelor of Arts in Social Welfare from Rhode Island College and a Masters in Human Services from New Hampshire College. Jo-Ann has worked in skilled nurs- Sylvia Group Announces New Hires ing facilities since 1979. Among her many past experiences she brings to us her experience as a licensed administrator in MA & RI as well as a licensed social worker in Massachusetts.

Please join us in welcoming Jo-Ann to St. Anne’s Credit Union Offers the family at Our Lady’s Haven! Assistance to Make Homeownership a Maritime International Inc., Receives Reality St. Anne’s Certification Credit Union recognizes the various challenges associated with purchasing a home and can provide assistance as an approved member of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Boston’s Equity Builder Program – a program assisting local income-eligible homebuy- Maritime International Inc., the largest ers in purchasing homes they intend to public cold storage facility in New Bedford, is announcing that their West Teroccupy as their primary residence. minal division has received certification The program offers grants for down pay- from the British Retail Consortium ment and closing costs, rehabilitation (BRC) an approved audit scheme under 6

West Terminal, highly recognizable from the muralist Wayland’s painted whales, is a 63,000 square foot facility and it part of Maritime International’s New Bedford cold storage complex with facilities totaling over 190,000 square feet of refrigerated space. Maritime operates Bridge Terminal in New Bedford which specializes in blast freezing and the storing of fresh and frozen perishables. Maritime also unloads refrigerated railcars and handles the stevedoring of international cargo ships.

Longtime sales and insurance executive Mike Isbister, in foreground, recently joined Sylvia Group as Director of Business Development. The Sylvia Group team also includes three other recent additions to the Dartmouth-based agency: from left, Account Manager Kelley Merchant, Employee Benefits Account Executive Benjamin Katz and Business Insurance Account Executive Chris Stockdale. Veteran executive Mike Isbister recently joined Sylvia Group as Director of Business Development, bringing 30 years of sales and service experience to the award-

winning insurance, benefits and financial service agency. Among the members of Isbister's sales team are two account executives who also joined Sylvia Group's staff of longtime employees earlier this year: Benjamin Katz of the agency's Employee Benefits division and Chris Stockdale of its Business Insurance department. Joining Katz as a newcomer in Employee Benefits is Kelley Merchant, an account manager with a deep background in providing clients with life insurance and human resource solutions. Prior to his position as leader of Sylvia Group's sales team, Isbister was a senior vice president and partner at an independent insurance agency in Quincy, MA. Past roles also include regional manager for Crystal Rock Holdings, and territory manager for W.B. Mason Inc. Katz's current role is his second at Sylvia Group; his first was as a summer intern while he was a student at Virginia Tech. As an Employee Benefits account executive, he works to provide businesses with benefits programs that enable them to attract and retain a talented workforce. A Dartmouth native, he resides in Brighton, MA. Stockdale earned his Property & Casualty Insurance license after a diverse set of career experiences that included working as an accountant for a Pittsburghbased education center, the marketing coordinator for Homestead-Miami Speedway and an intern with the Pittsburgh Steelers. As a member of Sylvia Group's Business Insurance team, he works with clients to design custom programs that enable them to mitigate the cost of risk. Originally from Australia, Stockdale is a cum laude graduate of Duquesne University, with a bachelor's degree in finance and sports marketing. Merchant joined Sylvia Group's Employee Benefits division this month, returning to her native Massachusetts after working for Shea Barclay Group in Tampa, FL, where her work included assisting busi-

Good News! AP Insurance Group Becomes The 50th Member of Insurance Services of New England, LLC (ISNE) AP Insurance Group has become the 50th member of an exclusive network of independent insurance agents, Insurance Services of New England, LLC, or Fairfield Inn & Suites New Bedford ISNE as they are known in the market Completes Renovation Project place. This network was formed to help agencies provide better service to their personal and commercial clients. nesses with captive group health insurance programs. Previously, she spent 11 years with Amica Mutual Insurance. An Accredited Customer Service Representative (ACSR) and Certified Professional Insurance Woman (CPIW), Merchant specializes in working with business managers to ensure the benefits needs of the organization and its employees are met.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, located in Downtown New Bedford at 185 MacArthur Drive, has completed a $2 million renovation to its 106-room property. The project was led by Granite State Contract Furnishings and included a full refresh of the following spaces: reception desk, lobby, breakfast area, fitness center, meeting rooms, and all 106 guest rooms. Owned and operated by Lafrance Hospitality, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New Bedford appeals to travelers who want to stay productive, balanced, rested and fit while away from home. Guest amenities include free hot breakfast, complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour business center, fitness center, and indoor pool and spa. The biggest change guests will notice are the renovated guest rooms. Each room received new mattresses, linens, carpet, tile, wallpaper, and window treatments. They have been equipped with new microwaves and mini refrigerators, and all double beds have been upgraded to queen size mattresses. Guests will also notice the inviting new breakfast area, warm and light-filled lobby, updated meeting room, and brand-new fitness center equipment. “Lafrance Hospitality is thrilled with the outcome of this project” says Tim Burkhardt, VP Hotels. “We continually strive to enhance the guest experience at our hotels, and this renovation is sure to accomplish that.”

Insurance Services of New England, LLC (ISNE) is a group of progressive independent agents that use size, scale and combined resources to benefit customers, communities, company partners and agency members. ISNE was founded in 1998 with the premise of "independence with reach" and has come to be known as an innovative team of high quality professionals dedicated to meeting the insurance needs of an ever changing marketplace. “Acceptance into ISNE is extremely beneficial to our clients, as it now allows our agency access to almost every carrier writing home, auto and commercial coverage in Massachusetts,” says Mr. Dyer, Agency Principal. “Today’s insurance marketplace is extremely competitive and most clients want to know that their agent is looking for the best coverage and price on their behalf. We are able to maintain our independence while having increased access and reach.” With the expertise of 50 agencies in 80 locations across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, ISNE has access to over 40 insurance companies, and arrangements with 24 Preferred Partner companies. In 2017 volume reached $500,000,000 in written premium. The agents within this network maintain their independence while taking advantage of multiple markets to create retention and profitability strategies which provide a substantial benefit to agency clients. About ISNE – With headquarters in Wellesley, MA, Insurance Services of New England, LLC is one of the leading insurance agency aggregators in New England

and offers more choices, more experi- “By pooling the expertise of our princience, more value, and more satisfaction. pals with the talent and specialized skills www.isne-llc.com. of our newly combined teams, we’re better able to service our clients with a single, integrated set of accounting and business BankFive Hires Managers For Fairhaven services,” said Douglas Rodrigues. and New Bedford Branches BankFive announced today the hiring of The newly combined firm offers a full two new branch managers. Fran Oliveira range of turnkey accounting solutions, is the new manager for the Fairhaven with specialized practices in areas from branch on Huttleston Avenue, and Is- auditing, tax, bookkeeping, payroll and mael Tavares is the new manager for the peer review to financial, business and tax New Bedford branch on Acushnet Ave. planning. It enables us to not only expand our service offering and our geographic Oliveira has more footprint, but leverage our collective than 25 years of knowledge for the benefit -and convebanking experience. nience of our clients Prior to joining BankFive, she was a “Over the years we’ve seen our clients in personal banking the Southcoast area – both businesses representative at and individuals – cope with a growing Santander Bank. She also held positions and often complex set of business, acat Sovereign Bank, Compass Bank, Luzo counting, tax and financial planning isCommunity Bank, and Shawmut Bank. sues,” said Rose Jardim. “Our long-term Oliveira received a certificate in business clients from both firms are excited to have administration from Kinyon-Campbell all these services available from a ‘new’ Business School, New Bedford. She is a firm that they’ve come to trust over the youth financial mentor for Junior years.” Achievement. Oliveira is fluent in Portuguese. “The firm’s principals have known each other, and our work, for many years and Before joining share a common value of staying ahead BankFive, Tavares of the curve and offering unprecedented worked as a select long-term value and personal service,” banker at Santander said Christie Marotta. “So we’re excited Bank. He holds a to be a new firm with “long-standing” bachelor's degree in values.” business management from Instituto JMR & Company now has more than 20 Politécnico de Tomar in Portugal. He has employees working at three convenient Series 6 and Series 63 investment securi- locations in New Bedford, Fairhaven and ties licenses. Tavares is fluent in Portu- Fall River providing professional services guese. to clients located throughout the US and internationally. CPA Firms Jardim & Marotta LLC and D.E. Rodrigues & Company Merge to Form JMR & Company LLC. Leading Southcoast accounting and business service companies, D.E Rodrigues & Company Inc. and Jardim & Marotta, LLC have announced the merger of their businesses to form the new Certified Public Accounting firm of JMR & Company LLC.

Do you have good news to share? Please send your press releases with photos to info@southcoastchamber.com Due to space limitations, we can not guarantee each article will be printed. We do try our best to fit as much

Save the Date: Chamber Golf Tournament Scheduled for Sept. 4th

C OA STA L F I NA NCI A L IS A PR E MIER PROV IDER OF PER SONA L F I NA NCI A L PL A N N I NG & E MPL OY E E BE N E F I T S; C OM MI T T ED T O OU R CL IE N T S ’ SUC CE S S SI NCE 1999.

508.990.1583 CHRISHODGSON�FINANCIALGUIDE.COM

62 State Road Dartmouth, MA 02747

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The SouthCoast Chamber’s Invitational Golf Tournament is scheduled for Tuesday, September 4th at LeBaron Hills Country Club. This year’s tournament provides an exciting opportunity to network while enjoying 18 holes of golf on a beautiful course. Registration begins at 9:00 am followed by a shotgun start at 10:00 am. The tournament will be a scramble format and includes a boxed lunch, award ceremony, cocktail hour, raffles, dinner and golfer’s gift bag. Come and take part in the friendly competition while enjoying delicious food for this much anticipated and unique signature Chamber event!

to the South Coast community and influence on the local economy. Join us as we pay tribute to these successful business leaders, their professional achievements, and commitment to a better South Coast!

The SouthCoast Chamber Golf Tournament is a great way to gain exposure at an exclusive event with over 100 professionals looking for new business ventures, partnerships and concepts. Sponsorship opportunities are available on all levels allowing organizations of any size to become involved. For more information on registering, sponsorships or donating a raffle prize contact Deven Robitaille, At the event, the SouthCoast Chamber Programs and Events Manager at 508 will honor Tony Sapienza, former 999 5231 ext103. CEO and President of Joseph Abboud Manufacturing and Chairman of the Tournament Sponsor: Economic Development Council and Joseph Nauman Executive Vice President, Chief Legal & Administrative Officer and Secretary of Acushnet Company for their dedication

2018-2019 Membership Directory & Community Resource Available 2018 – 2019

Currently being mailed to our members is the 2018-2019 edition of our Annual Membership Directory & Community Resource Guide. This guide provides a valuable resource to members of our community, businesses, those looking to visit or relocate to the area and more. If you have not yet received your copy, would like additional copies or have any questions regarding the publication, please contact Rebecca Laliberte at 508-999-5231, ext. 102 or email rlaliberte@southcoastchamber.com.

Annual Membership Directory & Community Resource Guide

SOUTHCOAST CHAMBER Proudly Serving New Bedford and the Towns of the South Coast

www.southcoastchamber.com

“BAYCOAST BANK IS A TRUE LIFELINE FOR MY BUSINESS.”

Carol Mansfield, Owner South Coast Emergency Medical and STAT Ambulance, Dartmouth, MA

Getting to know you and your business is very important to the commercial banking officers at BayCoast Bank. We offer loans for purchase or refinance that will help make the typically complex commercial real estate purchase as effortless as possible. Just ask Carol.

JUST RIGHT® COMMERCIAL LOANS To learn how we can help you achieve your goals, visit BayCoastBank.com or call 508-678-7641.

Member FDIC Member DIF

All loans subject to approval.

Welcome New Members All Security Co, LLC 771 Kempton St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 993-4272

Cork Wine & Tapas Bar 90 Front St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 994-9463

Ph Perfect Love PO Box 40862 New Bedford, MA 02744 Phone: (508) 264-2052

Staples 17 Plaza Way Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: (508) 997-5103

Atlantic Spray Boat Clean & Paint 2108 Phillips Rd. Unit #25 New Bedford, MA 02745 Phone: (508) 685-4548

Empire Ford of New Bedford 395 Mount Pleasant Street New Bedford, MA 02746 Phone: (508) 996-5611

Pilgrim Strategies 20 Ahsburton Place Second Floor Phone: (857) 265-3921

Susan Finn Online PO Box 4045 Westport, MA 02790 Phone: (508) 400-2097

Fishing Partnership Support Services 114 MacArthur Drive New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 884-6661

Radical Solutions 27 Lake St Norfolk, MA 02056 Phone: 508-346-3035

Summit Title Services, LLC 51 Melcher St. Boston, MA 02210 Phone: (508) 789-9232

Flynt Enterprises, LLC 16 Sconticut Neck Rd., #219 Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: (508) 742-6836

Slainte Irish Pub 34 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 994-3355

Whaling City Golf Course 581 Hathaway Rd. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 996-9393

Avalon Medical Spa 651 Orchard Street, Suite 202 New Bedford, MA 02744 Phone: (774) 202-7049 Bask Inc. 2 Pequod Rd. Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: (508) 758-2536

Law Offices of Jane E. Sullivan, P.C. The Cooperative Bank of Cape Cod 624 Brayton Ave Fall River, MA 02721 184 East Main St. Phone: (508) 679-0535 Hyannis, MA 02601 Phone: (508) 930-5707 Love To Live Water Solutions PO Box 40862 Cindy Irving Photography New Bedford, MA 02744 PO Box 412 Phone: (774) 305-2493 Mattapoisett, MA 02739 Phone: (857) 294-2165

SouthCoast Mediation 3 Upland Way PO Box 821 Mattapoisett, MA 02739 Phone: (508) 758-8245 Sprint 5 State Road Dartmouth, MA 02474 Phone: (774) 216-1423

SouthCoast Chamber 2018 Membership Campaign â&#x20AC;&#x201C; We Need Your Support! By: Ian Abreu

The SouthCoast Chamber will be holding its annual Membership Campaign on Tuesday, September 11th and Wednesday, September 12th from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please consider giving three-and-a-half hours of your time with fellow business leaders and friends (all while sharing the value you derive from being a member)! The day will include complimentary breakfast, lunch and snacks!

Volunteers help make the Annual Membership Campaign a success!

networking and professional development, export services, an electricity discount program, free and low cost marketing, schoolIn addition, valuable prizes will be to- career initiatives, trade shows, as awarded to top recruiters! well as government affairs programs and advocacy to encourage a positive The Chamber provides numerous business climate for the South Coast services for its members, including area. 10

In addition, the Chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s New Member Campaign will also feature several "join now" incentives for businesses and organizations that enroll with the Chamber, including free advertising, web site listings, admission to Chamber networking programs and more. We would also like to thank Ambassador Committee Chair, Chris Johnson of Servpro of Dartmouth/New Bedford & Marion / Middleboro, for once again agreeing to be our 2018 Membership Campaign chair. If you are unable to volunteer your time, please consider donating a prize

or gift certificate for those who will be participating in the campaign. Your support will help make this Membership Campaign a great success! If you are interested in volunteering for the drive or, are interested in becoming a prize sponsor, please contact Ian Abreu, Manager of Business Development & Public Policy at the SouthCoast Chamber at: (508) 999-5231, ext.104, or, via email at iabreu@southcoastchamber.com

Recent Events

1. 1. 1. Our local legislative delegation joined Eileen McAnneny, President of Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation at the SouthCoast Legislative Lunch.* 2. Attendees enjoyed the interactive format of the Business Builders Breakfast at the Donut Factory.* 3. Eileen McAnneny, President of Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation at the SouthCoast Legislative Lunch sponsored by Southcoast Health and St. Anne's Credit Union.* 4. Ribbon cutting at Pharmacannis Massachusetts, Inc. located in Wareham.* 5. Guests at Business After Hours hosted by Inspired Bath in Dartmouth.*

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Business After Hours Weds., August 8, 2018 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at First Citizens' Federal Credit Union 570 N. Front St., New Bedford, MA Sponsored by:

Thursday, August 30, 2018 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Servpro of Dartmouth/New Bedford and Servpro of Marion/ Middleboro 1476 Purchase St. New Bedford, MA 02740. Sponsored by:

6. Guests at the Annual APEX Awards.* 7. Dr. Laura Douglas, President of BCC was the featured speaker for our CEO Unplugged series in June sponsored by Taunton Federal Credit Union.* 8. Our first Meet Your Neighbors Lunch hosted by Cove Surf & Turf was very successful and attendees enjoyed the networking and delicious lunch. 9. Bask, Inc. opened their doors with a ribbon cutting in June.* 10. Groundworks & Leadership SouthCoast hosted the May Business After Hours.* 11. Guests enjoyed Business After Hours in June sponsored by BankFive.* (*photos by Sergio: badmonkeypics@outlook.com)

Networking over Great Food and Madeira Wine? Yes, Please! By: Ian Abreu

Come join the SouthCoast Chamber, Club Madeirense S.S. Sacramento and the 104th annual Feast of the Blessed Sacrament Committee as we celebrate "Business During Hours!" This gathering, which will take place from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. under the grapevines in the historic "latada" area, will provide an opportunity for you and your business to come network and experience the world's largest Portuguese feast over lunch!

Calendar of Chamber Committee Meetings

August Ambassador's Council- Thursday, August 23rd - 11:30 a.m. September Government Affairs - Friday, Sept. 14th - 8:30 a.m. Board of Directors - Thursday, Sept. 27th - 8:30 a.m. For more information on upcoming committee meetings contact the Chamber at 508-999-5231 or email info@southcoastchamber.com.

Each registered guest will receive a free voucher for a sandwich and drink, and the event will also include a free tasting of the world famous Madeira wine! The event is free for all Chamber members, but pre-registration is required. Please RSVP by Tuesday, July 31, 2018 at 5:00 p.m. to reserve your space. You can do so by either calling our office at: (508) 999-5231, or by visiting our website, www.southcoastchamber.com.

July - August Featured Member Discount

Cork Wine & Tapas

Love What Your Money Can Do

10% Off Order (Restrictions may apply)

90 Front Street, New Bedford, MA (508) 994-9463 â&#x20AC;˘ corkwineandtapas.com To set up your discount or to view a complete list of discounts currently available to Chamber members, please visit www.southcoastchamber.com or call 508-999-5231

CEO Unplugged: Jason Couto, Owner of Couto Construction Anxious to learn from local CEOs, create connections and increase your professional network? This is the perfect event for you. The SouthCoast Young Professionals Network (SCYPN) will host their next installment of the CEO Unplugged series on Monday, September 10, 2018 from 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at Couto Construction, 24 Ernest St., New Bedford, MA. The SCYPN's CEO Unplugged series is held quarterly and provides young professionals with an opportunity to connect with and learn from successful local CEOs. Aimed to be a source of inspiration and a wealth of knowledge, the CEOs share their personal experiences and journey to success with the participants in an informal, small group setting. The final event of the 2018 series will be in December and the speaker is still to be determined. Our featured speaker for this event will be Jason Couto, owner of Couto Construction. As a second generation owner of a certified roofing company, he has been working in the construction industry since he was a child and spent his summers helping his father with the family business. Jason is well-equipped

to lead the company. He helps handle f i n a n c e s , marketing, sales, estimates, and more. His company has completed a wide variety of projects at both large and small homes, so his knowledge in the area of construction and customer satisfaction is expansive. Outside of work, Jason enjoys spending time with his family. He also plays soccer, watches movies, plays golf, and attends social events.

2.00

APY*

24-MONTH IRA

Take advantage of the special rate and open your account today!

This event is free, but registration is required online at www. southcoastchamber.com or by contacting SouthCoast Chamber at 508-999-5231. sponsored by:

Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is available as of 2/15/18. Minimum deposit of $500 is required to open account. Term Certificates do not apply. Penalties may be imposed for early withdrawal. Premium rates not eligible for this special. Funds to open Individual Retirement Account must be transferred from another financial institution. A penalty may be assessed for withdrawals exceeding 50% of the balance or for early withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings on account. There are no annual maintenance fees on IRA accounts. Share insurance is provided in excess of NCUA federal insurance by MSIC, a Massachusettschartered corporation not affiliated with the NCUA or the federal government. This is a limited time offer and may be withdrawn at any time. Rates subject to change at any time. We reserve the right to determine the eligibility of new members and existing members for all promotional offers. These offers cannot be combined with any other current or ongoing offers, promotions, & discounts.

Member Spotlight: Mikey B's Restaurant in New Bedford except in the impact it has on others’ ing, change, and to get more hands on lives” and the Bobola’s community in- involvement. Mikey B’s looks for employees who are honest, polite, kind volvement reflects that. and can get along with other employees. They feel it is important for their restau- Mikey B’s is open seven days a week and rant to be a member of the SouthCoast is located at 989 Victoria St., New BedChamber to get involved with network- ford, MA.

Joanne and her husband E. Michael Bobola have been in the restaurant business for many years. Their first business was the Huttleston House which opened its doors in 1975. The restaurant was a successful Fairhaven dining spot and was in business for 35 years. Mikey B’s has been in operation since 2009 and has a very diverse menu which includes seafood, lobster cooked five different ways, burger, steaks, and chicken. There are vegan options and Mikey B’s does catering for whatever size get-together. They offer a five star take-out, delivery service and only buy fresh, local seafood. With summer

around the corner, their clam boils and catering are perfect for beach and backyard cookouts. The successful business has also had much success with community involvement over the years. They have supported many causes including the Rotary club, Lions club, Kennedy Donovan Center, many local schools, the Neediest Families fundraiser and Walk For Life. The Bobola’s feel the benefit of being engaged in the community is “to up the involvement to the community and it’s better to give than take.” One of their favorite quotes is by Jackie Robinson, “A life is not important enough

Workforce Board Collaborates With Partners On Youth Dual Enrollment Opportunities For Region Submitted by the Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board The Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board, Inc. has partnered with higher education and high school partners across the region to offer dual enrollment opportunities to students. Dual Enrollment is an early college program where currently enrolled high school students are able to concurrently enroll at higher education such as Bristol Community College and University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and earn college credits. On June 5th, the workforce board launched LAUNCH with Old Colony in Rochester and partner Bristol Community College. In the LAUNCH program, Old Colony sophomore students will be able to enroll in dual enrollment courses and complete the BCC Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management by the 14

time they graduate from high school. The certificate is 29-credits which can also be applied to an Associate’s degree at BCC or transferred to other higher educational institutions. More information on LAUNCH can be found here: http://www.oldcolony.us/2018/06/ launch-early-college-entrepreneurshipannouncement-information/launchearly-college-overview/ The workforce board has also collaborated with BCC and Wareham High School for a summer Advanced Manufacturing program funded through the AmpItUp! Commonwealth funded initiative. 20 students could enroll in the 3-credit CAD 101 course through BCC and also visit five area manufacturers to learn about application of CAD to the real-world work environments.

New Bedford High School students are also benefited from the workforce board’s initiative to support dual enrollment in the region. Through a Massachusetts Clean Energy Center grant, up to 20 NBHS students were able to enroll in 6-9 credits of BCC courses including CAD, Introduction to Renewables and Math, in addition to a paid 140-hour internship with a clean energy related course.

“Dual enrollment is important because it gives youth additional skills necessary to success in an internship or work experience,” said Anthony Sapienza, chair of the workforce board of directors. “Additionally, it gives the students an opportunity to explore careers and to see that they can succeed in college.”

For more information on the workforce board or the initiative to support dual enrollment, please visit gnbwib.org or While there is a cost associated with contact Dr. K. Holloway Cripps at 508the students enrolling in some dual 979-504. enrollment, some of the programs are completely free for youth due to grant-funded opportunities including the Wareham and New Bedford High School programs. And for programs such as Old Colony, the cost is less than half of the regular tuition rate due to program support.

ENTERPRISING MINDS Submitted by Joanne Rego, Supported Employment Network Coordinator

M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc.’s Job Matching Format Helps Employers Find Successful Employees As M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc. celebrates its 23rd anniversary, the agency is also celebrating the successful job placements of over 40 people with disabilities in their program who are proudly working for wages in our Greater New Bedford community.

and cleaning up machines. Alex has cooking skills so his duties at Joseph Abboud revolve around food prep in the cafeteria. Seastreak Ferry Service recently hired two employees. Ernie has maintenance skills, which have carried over nicely with his new employer. Patricia has skills as a telephone operator that were acquired while working for a previous employer. She was hired to work at the call center by Seastreak Ferry Service to Steven Doyle is currently seeking do their bookings and reservations. employment.

These successful job placements are often the result of M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc.’s ability to job match their job seekers with the job seeker’s employment desires and skills when approaching job development goals. Most recently, M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc. has been able to match more employees with the ideal Big Lots in Fairhaven also hired two employers. new employees. Both Johnathan and Joseph Abboud has hired three Austyn are both happy to be part of the individuals who have both the skills and crew at the new Big Lots. enthusiasm to work at their business. Jorge and Johnathan are working on Texas Road House hired Ron who is the factory floor doing maintenance the perfect match for the restaurant

The SouthCoast HR Council meets monthly September through May. The council is open to all Chamber members with an interest in human resources. For more information or to register, contact Dorothy Botelho at: dbotelho@southcoastchamber.com or 508-999-5231 ext. 101.

establishment. Ron loves music and loves to dance. Anyone who has been to Texas Road House knows that there is plenty of country music and dancing to go along with your meal. M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc. is very pleased with the partnerships that they have formed with the local business that have hired individuals with disabilities from their program. The recent group of businesses that they work with have quickly jumped on board to welcome their new employees by offering outstanding supports, understanding and accommodations to the new members of their workforce. It should be noted, however, that there are still job seekers at M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc. who are looking for employment or additional employment. Recently

Steven Doyle was laid off from his job at a car dealership after over 16 years of employment. Steven’s responsibilities at the car dealership included car detailing and parking lot maintenance. In addition to his job responsibilities, Steven was an excellent sales advocate for the company and encouraged many customers and friends to purchase a new car from his employer. Often times Steven’s sales recommendations earned him a well-deserved bonus in his pay check. In a Chamber Focus article highlighting Mr. Doyle in 2010, a former supervisor had nothing but praise for Doyle’s job performance saying that Doyle follows directions and does a great job. He added that Steven also got along well with his coworkers. Based on Steven’s 16 years of experience and his employment desires, the ideal job match for Mr. Doyle would be at another car dealership or a similar type of setting. If you are interested in meeting Mr. Doyle to discuss an employment opportunity or to set up a job interview, please contact Robert Cardoza at M.O.L.I.F.E., Inc. at 508-992-5978. If you have any questions about the Supported Employment Network or are interested in hiring a person with disabilities, please call Joanne Rego at the SouthCoast Chamber at 508-9995231.

www.southcoasthrcouncil.com