The SouthCoast
Inside March - April 2019
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 Member Spotlight................................3 Good News .........................................6 Welcome New Members....................10 Recent Events.....................................11
March - April 2019 Featured Member Discount...............13
SouthCoast Job Fair Returns to Greater New Bedford Voc-Tech on April 18th The SouthCoast Chamber, Lifestream, the Mass Hire Greater New Bedford Career Center and Greater New Bedford Workforce Board will host the "SouthCoast Job Fair”. This event is taking place on Thursday, April 18, 2019, from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., at Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, located at 1121 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford, MA.
more than one table, you will receive $50 off each additional table. Each employer will receive two chairs, 8 or 6-foot table (depending on choice and or availability) and complimentary breakfast and lunch provided by the SouthCoast Chamber.
If you are someone who is unemployed or seeking a career change, this is the perfect event for you. At the SouthCoast Our largest career event of the year, Job Fair, a variety of industries will be the "SouthCoast Job Fair" will provide present all looking to hire. Admission is your business with an opportunity to free for job seekers. interact one-on-one with a large group of talented job seekers. Our goal is to For more information, please help you make connections to meet the contact Ian Abreu at (508) 999-5231 workforce needs of your businesses. ext.105 or through email Iabreu@ southcoastchamber.com. Hundreds of job seekers attended the 2018 SouthCoast Job Fair at Greater New Bedford Booth Pricing is as follows: 6-foot table Regional Vocational Technical High School. (no electricity) for $375 and 8-foot table (with electricity) for $425. If renting
• The Connecting Activities Partnership is seeking STEAM employers. Read more on page 3. • The Annual Apex Awards will be presented in April. Read more on page 3. • The Southeastern Massachusetts Alliance of Chambers published their legislative agenda. Read more on page 14.
The SouthCoast Chamber Focus is the official news publication of the SouthCoast Chamber 227 Union Street, Mezzanine 2 • 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 Economic Affairs Rose Lopes, Sylvia Group 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 Cheryl Bartlett, New Bedford Community Health Center Kevin Carando, Acushnet Company Kathy Carter, Charlton College of Business, UMASS-Dartmouth Paul Chasse, REALTOR® Association of Southeastern Massachusetts Dr. Laura Douglas, Bristol Community College Stephen W. Connulty, Paul & Dixon Insurance Gail Fortes, YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts Jeffrey Glassman, Darn It, Inc. Doug Glassman, SERVPRO of Dartmouth/New Bedford & Marion / Middleboro Ellen Gitlin, Diversified Marketing Group Luke Lehman, BankFive Chuck Lord, AHEAD Lynne Mastera, Precix Douglas Rodrigues, JMR & Company Kristy Roussel, Lafrance Hospitality Derek Santos, New Bedford Economic Development Council Carmen Sylvester, Southern Mass Credit Union Mike Tavares, Horacio’s, Inc 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, Brianna Alves - Ext. 104 Member Relations Coordinator/Tourism Coordinator, Ashley Wojtunik - Ext. 108
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A Message from the President & CEO With any luck, by the time you receive this edition of the Focus, we will have seen the first peeks of spring around the corner with a mild winter slowly disappearing into our rear view mirrors.
together than we could ever be apart. A combined organization would be the second largest chamber in the state and would be able to represent our region on key issues of importance to our future success – from energy costs to Rick Kidder, Spring means rebirth in New President & CEO South Coast Rail. Every memEngland. Leaves return to the ber would have access to a far trees. People begin to think larger pool from which to build of doing things outside after months business networks and assist us in our of being cooped up. Super Bowl wins core mission to help businesses grow ease the winter doldrums. While the and thrive. rest of the nation may hate us, we warm ourselves in the glory of the Pats and Our entire region shares a workforce, look with excitement to the end of and our entire region is one economy Spring Training so that our World Se- that rises and falls together. The days ries Champions can conquer the world of parochial perspectives are dying out, once again from the confines of the replaced by regional cooperation and “lyric little bandbox” of Fenway Park as regional economics. Off shore wind, John Updike referred to it. South Coast Rail, healthcare and educational attainment are regional converSpring for the SouthCoast Chamber is sations with local and regional benefits, a busy time! The Apex Awards, recog- and the primary business organizations nizing the best of the best in business in must speak with one voice to support the South Coast are planned for April our region. 16, his year as a dinner. We are planning for our annual Legislative Lun- This region of the Commonwealth is cheon, featuring U.S. Senator Edward both visually stunning and remarkably Markey. On April 18, we will host the affordable, yet it also lags behind the region’s largest and most successful Job rest of the state in terms of wages, eduFair. We are off and running! cational attainment and health indicators. The assets are staggering, but we In the midst of our very busy schedule, are behind most of the state. We must we are also continuing our integration begin to capitalize on those assets and conversations with the Bristol County build on our great strengths to help Chamber in Fall River. These two large build a brighter future for all of the chambers are focusing their conversa- communities we serve. tions based on a single guiding principle – doing the very best possible for Like the Patriots and the Red Sox, sucour members. We want every member cess is a team effort where every person of the two chambers to know that their – and every chamber – plays its part well. success is at the core of our planning Success is incremental and defined by and that the only acceptable outcome small gains that grow into larger ones. is enhanced value for the totality of our We are from a state of champions and memberships, especially the small busi- this region, as the new Spring emerges, nesses that make up lion’s share of both will have the opportunity be champions of our great organizations. once again! Part of the rationale for our discussions lies in the premise that we are stronger
Save the Date for the Annual APEX Business Awards - April 9th
Member Spotlight: Primerica cause its focus aligns with his family’s focus: God, Family, and then business.
The SouthCoast Chamber is excited the celebrate the accomplishments of local businesses at the “APEX Business Awards”. The Chamber recognizes the achievements and contributions businesses make to the creation of job opportunities and the economic development of the region. In April, we will turn a special spotlight on local organizations and their valuable contributions to our community at the APEX Business Awards Ceremony. Recipients
will be announced at the APEX Awards event scheduled for Tuesday, April 9th from 5p.m. to 7p.m. at the Century House in Acushnet.
Nelson Linhares has been a local investment advisor with Primerica since 2007. Primerica has been around since 1977 and helps Main Street families get the protection they need at a price they can afford, invest for the future and get out of debt. They teach families fundamental financial principles that aren't taught in school and give them an opportunity to build a business and transform their life. Primerica's core operations focus on the distribution of term life insurance, mutual funds and annuities through PFS Investments, as well as other financial products such as auto & home insurance, ID theft, long term care insurance, and pre paid legal services.
The Chamber received over 20 nominees and the full list will be posted on Nelson is a registered investment adviwww.southcoastchamber.com/apex sor in 7 separate states and has been liFor more information, please contact censed with Primerica for 12 years He’s Deven Robitaille at 508-999-5231 or de- never been financially licensed with any other company and can see being with ven@southcoastchamber.com Primerica for the rest of his career, be-
Locally, Primerica has 4 full time independent contractors and 40 part time agents in 3 separate Primerica locations. Primerica's representatives come from all walks of life and from many different vocational backgrounds. Primerica representatives have earned an excellent reputation for providing affordable financial solutions by helping families. The company’s focus is on middle income families. Nelson and the Primerica team feel that there have been so many people in their lives that have given so much to them and feel a responsibility to give back. They also feel strongly that our children learn the principle of giving back to the community. Primerica is involved with St James/St Johns School, Junior Achievement, and Gifts to Give. Primerica feels that it is important to be a member of the SouthCoast Chamber because supporting local business is the backbone of our local community.
Recruiting STEAM Employers for Wareham High School’s Career Fair! By: Brianna Alves, Youth Services Coordinator
any real-life work questions the students may have. The most common questions are as follows: "what do you do for a living?" "Or what’s your typical work day like?" We encourage employers to bring as many employees as you want with you. The Career Fair is on Thursday, April 4, 2019 from 9 am until 11 am located at Wareham High School. There is no cost to have a table. As a thank you to employers for attending the fair, Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership (GNBCAP) will provide coffee, water, and refreshments from Sunrise Bakery and Coffee Shops.
A Career Fair is designed to help students build awareness on career pathways. At the Career Fair, each employer will have a table where you can setup a tablecloth and your organization's marketing materials. Students will arrive at your table; they will want to speak to you about your organization and what opportunities your industry has for them. In addition, you Host a Summer Intern! are welcomed to give advice to them such as specific training, receiving a two or GNBCAP is seeking employers to parfour year college degrees, and certificates ticipate paid internship opportunities for needed for your industry. Please answer New Bedford High School 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. We are looking to collaborate with even more employers and businesses to ensure that we are giving the students we service the highest quality internship experiences in the region.
and several interns can participate on one project. Please consider hosting a high school paid intern and giving these students an experience that will last a lifetime. Host an intern is a minimal contribution with a huge impact to your business and future workforce!
If your business would like to participate at the Wareham High School Career fair or want to host an intern, please reach out to the Brianna Alves, Youth Services Summer internship opportunities are Coordinator at 508-858-5594 or by email vital for high school students, opening balves@southcoastchamber.com. their eyes to various careers and pathways through career immersion. Typically, Connecting Activities is an initiative of the summer internships start the Monday Youth Committee Greater New Bedford Workafter fourth of July and run through mid- force Investment Board, Inc. August with students completing a total of 120 hours over the course of 6 weeks (for less than $1,450.00). In addition, these internships can be project-based 3
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Excellence in HR Business Solutions 5
Good News! BankFive Hires New Manager For our best work in service of our clients." Digital Banking Center The Greater New Bedford financial BankFive announced today that it has advisors are: Ron Ellis, Travis Kessock, hired banking Steve Galavotti, Don Hartley, Larry veteran Jeff Sanson Lutvak, and Billy DePaul. as Vice President/ Digital Banking Edward Jones, a Fortune 500 company Center Manager. headquartered in St. Louis, provides His office is located financial services in the U.S. and, in Fall River, Mass. through its affiliate, in Canada. Every aspect of the firm's business, from the Sanson, of Taunton, Mass., has worked investments its financial advisors offer in the banking industry for 13 years. to the location of its branch offices, Prior to joining BankFive, he worked caters to individual investors. The firm's at Santander Bank. He has a bachelor’s 17,000-plus financial advisors serve degree in information technology, more than 7 million clients and care for networking engineering and computer $1 trillion in assets under management. repair from New England Institute of Visit our website at edwardjones. Technology in East Greenwich, Rhode com and recruiting website at careers. edwardjones.com. Member SIPC. Island. His volunteer activities include Tomlinson & O’Neil Insurance participating in several annual cleanups Agency of New Bedford, MA Welcomes Germana Farias and beautification efforts in Taunton. Edward Jones Named One of 2019 Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® by Fortune Magazine and Great Christopher J. O’Neil, Vice President of the Tomlinson & O’Neil Insurance Place to Work Agency of New Bedford, MA has recently announced that Germana Farias has joined the agency’s Personal Lines Department as a client service representative. Ms. Farias brings over 30 years of client service and management experience to the agency. Germana Financial services firm Edward Jones speaks fluent Portuguese and maintains ranks No. 7 on the 2019 Fortune an insurance producer license issued by "100 Best Companies to Work For" the Commonwealth. list, according to global research and consulting firm Great Place to Work Most recently serving as a manager in and Fortune magazine. This year marks personal lines with a Dartmouth, MA. agency, Germana will be working to the firm's 20th year on the list. grow and service an expanding list of "At Edward Jones, we believe there clients at Tomlinson & O’Neil. She are two relationships that form the can be reached at 508-994-5678 or at foundation of our firm and how we germana@toinsurance.com. Tomlinson work - the relationships we have with & O’Neil Insurance Agency is a our clients and the relationships we have progressive insurance agency serving the with one another," said Edward Jones needs of thousands of individuals and Managing Partner Penny Pennington. businesses throughout New England. "That's what makes this recognition so For more information please visit www. significant: It represents our associates' toinsurance.com. longstanding commitment to creating an environment where each of us can do 6
Liz Wiley Appointed Executive implemented multiple grant initiatives Director of the Marion Institute focused on workforce development and helped launch eHealth, an innovative The Marion Institute (MI) Board of private/public partnership that brought Directors and staff welcome their online health oriented programs to the new Executive Director, Liz Wiley, to college. Later, as the Director of the the organization. Wiley will lead MI, college’s Green Center, Liz developed which celebrated workforce training programs in support its 25th year in of the green economy. Under Liz’s 2018, as it evolves direction, the Center grew into a major its mission to force for developing the green economy focus primarily on in the Southcoast region. She has taught holistic healthcare courses at Boston University and BCC and fostering and is a certified yoga teacher. Liz and healthy, engaged her family reside in Wareham. individuals and communities. The Marion Institute is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization and the “We’re so pleased to welcome Liz back organizational hub for programs to the Marion Institute,” said Michael focused on innovative approaches Baldwin, CoFounder and President of to healthcare, community-building, the Board of Directors. “She was with and sustainability: the BioMed us 5 years ago and left an indelible Programs (BioMed Network and the mark on the organization. Her skills, Bioregulatory Medicine Institute) and accomplishments and core values Grow Education. The Marion Institute mirror the mission of the Marion also acts as a fiscal sponsor for a range of Institute and we are looking forward to smaller organizations which are working her shepherding MI into a new era.” toward their charitable certification and are in need of administrative support Most recently, Liz Wiley was the and guidance. Climate Resilience and Food Security Lead at Spherical Analytics (S|A), a Saint Anne’s Hospital earns national CONTEXT LABS Company based in accreditation with commendation Cambridge, MA. from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons “It is with great excitement that I return to the Marion Institute as Executive Director. The MI’s mission has always been close to my heart and aligns Saint Anne’s Hospital Regional Cancer with my personal and professional Center has been awarded three-year philosophy,” said Wiley. “Our goal of accreditation with commendation by promoting healthy living and vibrant the Commission on Cancer (CoC), communities through food access, a quality program of the American resilient environments and holistic College of Surgeons. healthcare is a fundamental part of my world view. I can’t wait to work with the To earn CoC accreditation, a cancer incredible MI team to implement and program must meet or exceed the CoC expand this pioneering vision.” quality care standards, be evaluated every three years through a survey process, Originally trained as a biologist, Liz and maintain levels of excellence in has a diverse background focused on the delivery of comprehensive patientenvironmental and social issues for centered care. Three-year accreditation more than 20 years. In 2007, she began with commendation is awarded only working for Bristol Community College to facilities that exceed standard (BCC) where she developed the highly requirements at the time of its triennial successful WISE Women program, survey.
Good News! Saint Anne’s Hospital’s cancer care program was established in 1976 and first accredited by the Commission on Cancer in 1982. As a CoC-accredited cancer program, Saint Anne’s takes a multidisciplinary approach to treating cancer as a complex group of diseases that requires consultation among surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, diagnostic radiologists, pathologists, and other cancer specialists. This multidisciplinary partnership results in improved patient care.
This nationwide oncology outcomes database is the largest clinical disease registry in the world. Data on all types of cancer are tracked and analyzed through the NCDB and used to explore trends in cancer care. CoC-accredited cancer centers, in turn, have access to information derived from this type of data analysis, which is used to create national, regional, and state benchmark reports. These reports help CoC facilities with their quality improvement efforts.
“For more than 40 years, Saint Anne’s has had the privilege of caring for thousands of patients with a cancer diagnosis,” said the hospital’s president, Michael Bushell. “We are proud of the high level of professionalism and sensitivity that our entire oncology team brings to their work. This reaccreditation with commendation exemplifies the expert care and compassion they provide to patients throughout the cancer experience, right from initial diagnosis through treatment and beyond.”
The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 1.7 million cases of cancer will be diagnosed in 2019. There are currently more than 1,500 CoC-accredited cancer programs in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. CoC-accredited facilities diagnose and/or treat more than 70 percent of all newly diagnosed cancer patients. When cancer patients choose to seek care locally at a CoCaccredited cancer center, they are gaining access to comprehensive, stateof-the-art cancer care close to home.
CoC accreditation is a voluntary program that provides the framework for Saint Anne’s to improve its quality of patient care through various cancer-related programs that focus on the full spectrum of cancer care, including prevention, early diagnosis, cancer staging, optimal treatment, rehabilitation, life-long follow-up for recurrent disease, and end-of-life care. When patients receive care at a CoC facility, they also have access to information on clinical trials and new treatments, genetic counseling, and patient centered services including psycho-social support, a patient navigation process, and a survivorship care plan that documents the care each patient receives and seeks to improve cancer survivors’ quality of life. Like all CoC-accredited facilities, Saint Anne’s Hospital maintains a cancer registry and contributes data to the National Cancer Data Base (NCDB), a joint program of the CoC and American Cancer Society.
The CoC provides the public with information on the resources, services, and cancer treatment experience for each CoC-accredited cancer program. To find an accredited program, visit the CoC Hospital Locator at https://www. facs.org/search/cancer-programs. Poyant Announces New Hires and Promotion Cody Carmo has joined the Award Winning Design Team at Poyant, a New Bedford sign manufacturer and branding specialist serving local, regional and national organizations. In his new role, Carmo is responsible for developing graphic design concepts through creative design, drafting, documentation and production art execution. Carmo earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design and Digital Media with a concentration in Print Design from
Johnson & Wales University. Prior to Poyant, he worked in several screenprinting shops where he developed a sense of branding and design with a variety of clients and projects. In addition to his conceptual knowledge, Carmo has worked in silk-screening, embroidery, stationary, as well as brand strategy and image.
communication and organizational skills to ensure that her projects stay on schedule and within budget. She understands the importance of timely communication and building strong relationships with customers, subcontractors and colleagues. She constantly strives to contribute valuable time and input to supporting the continuous improvement processes at Poyant has named Wendy DeGrasse, Poyant. Repair and Maintenance Associate Project Manager, responsible for Westport Federal Credit Union managing and scheduling service and Holds Fourth Annual Souper Bowl repair calls and providing consistently Collection for Citizens for Citizens excellent service to our customers. DeGrasse holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix and has more than ten years of project administration experience. Prior to Poyant, she was a Project Coordinator for URS Corporation, an Architectural and Engineering Construction management firm in Los Angeles, Calif. She has extensive The Patriots have won at the Super experience in project management Bowl, and Westport Federal Credit including maintaining various project Union scored a touchdown with their schedules such as earthquake retrofit fourth annual Souper Bowl. In January, for buildings, commuter light-rail WFCU locations began collecting and renovations for unified school canned soup and other non-perishable districts. DeGrasse also worked for items for Citizens for Citizens food American Honda Motor Company pantry. Westport Federal Credit where she assisted with the lease efforts Union has partnered with Citizens for and inventory for the Clarity Electric Citizens several times over the past few Vehicle nationwide. years to help the local communities in need. CFC serves Fall River, Westport, Poyant has promoted Natalia Pelletier Seekonk, Swansea, Somerset, Dighton, to Senior Project Manager. Pelletier has Rehoboth, Berkley, Freetown and been a valued member of the Poyant Taunton. In total, WFCU collected Team for nearly 20 years, supporting the over 110 food items from its staff and highest performing Account Executive members. in the company. She is a key player in ensuring the success of the CVS Brand Signage Program Do you have good news to share? in the Northeast in addition to Please send your press releases with photos to info@southcoastchamber.com supporting a variety of other clients throughout the region. Pelletier Due to space limitations, we can not guarantee leverages her experience and knowledge each article will be printed. We do try our best to fit as much member news in as possible. of the sign industry with her excellent 7
Good Morning SouthCoast: Collaborating on Healthcare - March 21st
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 March edition of Good Morning Opioid Addiction(PPOA) and he curSouthCoast will focus on an issue im- rently serves as the co-chair of the New portant to both individuals and busi- Bedford Opioid Task Force. nesses alike, community wellness and healthcare reform. Attendees will hear Dr. Ronnie Brownfrom local experts in the healthcare sworth, MD, MBA is field who will share their experiences president of the Southand expertise on how we can improve coast Network of phycommunity wellness. Speakers will insicians. He previously clude: served as division operating officer for St. Michael Fine, MD, is currently Sr. Pop- Johns Health Plans. Brownsworth is a ulation Health & Clinical Services Offi- graduate of Southwestern Oklahoma cer at Blackstone Val- State University. He received his mediley Health Care. He cal degree from the University of Oklaserved in the Cabinet homa Medical School and his MBA of Governor Lincoln from Missouri State University. Chafee as Director of the Rhode Island DeCheryl Bartlett, RN, partment of Health is Chief Executive from February of 2011 until March of Officer at Greater 2015, overseeing a broad range of pubNew Bedford Comlic health programs and services. In munity Health Cen2018 he released a book called Health ter. Care Revolt about how healthcare is in need of fresh analysis and a new vision. Mark your calendar for March 21st, 7:30 a.m. at Rachel's Lakeside in Dartmouth. Michael J. Rocha, MD, FACC, is a The cost to attend, which includes a Cardiologist at Hawthorn Medical. He buffet breakfast, is $30 per person. This graduated from New Bedford High event is expected to attract business leadSchool in 1993. ers from throughout the region and is a He attended unique opportunity to get involved and UMass Medical showcase your business through sponSchool and com- sorship. For more information contact pleted his resi- deven@southcoastchamber.com or call dency and cardi- 508-999-5231. ology fellowship at Tufts Medical Center. In 2016, he co-founded the Physicians to Prevent
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Welcome New Members Entertainment One Stop Shop LLC 294 Withrop St. Taunton, MA 02780 Phone: (617) 438-3629
Alexandria Mauck Photography PO Box 42 69 Masquesatch Road Westport Point, MA 02791 Phone: (508) 415-1472
Mr. Fix & Customize 159 North Dartmouth Mall Drive North Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (508) 999-5900
Commonwealth Financial Group 125 Metro Center Blvd. Suite #3000 Warwick, RI 02886 Phone: (508) 982-6598
Growing In Health 319a Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 465-6500
Star Oil Co. 228 Rockdale Ave. New Bedford , MA 02740 Phone: (508) 991-4299
Rep/Weld Corp 734 Main Street Acushnet , MA 02743 Phone: (508) 995-2571
Complete Energy Services Corporation 500 Wilbur Ave. Swansea, MA 02777 Phone: (833) 237-2677
Burgo Basketball Association, Inc. 101 Slocum Road Dartmouth, MA 02748 Phone: 508-951-3796
Endzone Sports Pub 218 Coggeshall St. New Bedford, MA 02746 Phone: (508) 997-7309
Healthtrax 250 Faunce Corner Road North Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (508) 999-2171
Damaso Plumbing & Heating 170 Hadley St. New Bedford, MA 02745 Phone: (401) 474-4146
Appraisal Power 17 Huttleston Avenue Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: 5085254800
Vieira Auto Group 1204 Pleasant St. Fall River, MA 02723 Phone: (508) 730-9737
Transform Energy Solutions 36 Old Tavern Rd P.O. Box 565 Orange, CT 06477 Phone: 1-844-878-7617
Chocolate com Pimenta 1277 Acushnet Ave. New Bedford, MA 02746 Phone: (508) 965-2684 New Bedford Bay Sox 777 Tucker Road #4 Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (617) 543-2279
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Urban Blinds, LLC 447 Broadway St. Taunton, MA 02780 Phone: (508) 884-5000 American Legion Post One PO Box 2064 New Bedford, MA 02741 Phone: (978) 866-9499
Beacon Solar 147 Revolutionary Dr. Unit 2 East Taunton, MA 02718 Phone: (508) 434-6440 US Party Company 142 Tickle Rd. Westport, MA 02790 Phone: (508) 642-8633
Veronique Sylvia (New York Life) 1 Lakeshore Center Suite 202-204 Bridgewater, MA 02324 Phone: (508) 279-1108
SC Events 170 Blossom Rd. Westport, MA 02790 Phone: (508) 642-8210
Benchmark Business Solutions 222 West Main St. Hyannis, MA 02601 Phone: (774) 470-6066
Interiors By Paul Chaisson 40 Fort St. Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: (774) 425-2946
Sawejko Communications 61 Alden Place Somerset, MA 02725 Phone: (508) 673-0329
Ophthalmic Consultants of Boston 12 Rosebrook Pl. Wareham, MA 02571 Phone: (800) 635-0489
Lesley University 29 Everett St. Cambridge, MA 02138 Phone: (617) 349-8651 A.D. Makepeace Company (35 Rosebrook) 158 Tihonet Road Wareham, MA 02571 Phone: (508) 322-4103 Anthi Frangiadis Associates (The Drawing Room) 36 North Water St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 992-3494
Melissa M. Thomas CPA 1 Autumn St. Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: (508) 997-7396 Willow Tree Restaurant Inc. 12 Rockdale Ave New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 990-3631 Acorn International, LLC 37 Pleasant Street South Dartmouth, MA 02748 Phone: (978) 501-2962
Recent Events
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1. 1. The SouthCoast Chamber welcomed members to visit the new office located at 227 Union Street for a ribbon cutting followed by a member appreciation party.* 2. Guests enjoyed the cozy atmosphere at Bittersweet Farm in Westport at the Business Builders Breakfast.* 3. The Southeastern Massachusetts Alliance of Chamber's presented the public policy agenda at Holiday Inn in Taunton.*
Business After Hours Thursday, March 21, 2019 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at Bayside Lounge 125 Sconticut Neck Rd Fairhaven, MA Sponsored by:
Thursday, April 4, 2019 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
4. Reece Arnold from Better Community Living entertained the guests at the Chamber's
The Inspired Bath 145 Faunce Corner Road North Dartmouth, MA
5. Guest at the Chamber's Member Appreciation Party held outside the new Chamber
Sponsored by:
8. Guests at the February Business After Hours held at the Charlton College of Business at
Member Appreciation Party.* office at 227 Union Street, New Bedford.* 6. Guests at the SouthCoast Young Professionals Network at the Fairfield Inn. 7. The January Business After Hours was held at Kilburn Mill in New Bedford.* UMass Dartmouth.* 9. Guests at the Chamber Member Appreciation Party.*
Register online for upcoming Business After Hours by visiting: www.southcoastchamber.com or calling (508) 999-5231.
(*photos by Sergio: badmonkeypics@outlook.com)
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State of the City Address - March 28th
Mayor Jon Mitchell will deliver his State of the City Address over lunch on Thursday, March 28th at New Bedford High School. Each year, the Mayor delivers the “State of the City� address detailing past accomplishments, goals, planned policies and objectives for the largest city in the region for the coming year. Nearly 500 business, community, media and political leaders are expected to attend this luncheon program.
Calendar of Chamber Committee Meetings March Government Affairs - Friday, March 8th - 8:30 a.m. Ambassadors Meeting - Thursday, March 21st - 11:30 a.m. Board of Directors - Thursday, March 28th - 8:00 a.m. April Government Affairs - Friday, April 12th - 8:30 a.m. Ambassadors Meeting - Thursday, April 18th - 11:30 a.m. For more information on upcoming committee meetings contact the Chamber at 508-999-5231 or email info@southcoastchamber.com.
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The cost, which includes a catered lunch, is $50 per person, $500 per table of ten. Sponsorships are still available. Reservations are required by Thursday, March 21st. For more information or to reserve your seat or table, visit www.southcoastchamber.com or call the Chamber office at 508-999-5231.
March/April Featured Member Discount
FREE Tech Evaluation, FREE Cyber Security Assessment, and 15% Discount off of Services for Members Your friends at Nerds To Go offers firewalls, cyber security design/deployment, network installation/ monitoring, and a full range of computer repair services to businesses and work at home individuals. We'll even come to you. For more information: Mitch Zucker | M: 774-218-9486 | O: 339-970.3556 mzucker@nerdstogo.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
Upcoming New Member Orientations The Chamber is hosting New Member Orientations as an opportunity to give new members a chance to meet and learn about the benefits of their membership! If you are interested in learning more about membership, events, committees and how to get the maximum benefits from your membership, this "Chamber 101" session is for you! There will be a short presentation and an opportunity to create a personalized membership plan.
Upcoming dates include: Friday, March 22nd, 9:00 a.m. Friday, April 5th, 9:00 a.m. Both orientations will be held at the Chamber office located at 227 Union St., New Bedford. Space is limited to our first 20 sign- ups per session! To register or for more information contact Ashley Wojtunik at awojtunik@ southcoastchamber.com or call 508999-5231.
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The Southeastern Mass Alliances of Chambers (SEMAC) Continues Its Positive Momentum By: Ian Abreu, Manager of Business Development & Public Policy
On Friday, January 18th, the Southeastern Massachusetts Alliance of Chambers (SEMAC) hosted its first ever public policy forum event, which was attended by over 80 guests, including elected members of our Southeastern Mass Legislative delegation, chamber representatives and the business community. Those in attendance were also given a federal legislative update from United
States Congressman William Keating opportunity to speak with one voice, thus resulting in ensuring the best (MA-9). interests of the business community are “The combined efforts of these nine represented.” chambers to develop a common legislative agenda will, we hope, The event was touted as a success by all allow our hardworking legislators to of the attendees, and it is our sincerest understand business concerns and hope that “SEMAC” will continue interests and to assist them in their hard to collaborate with our partners in work in support of the Southeastern government to help create a more Massachusetts economic region," said economically viable and competitive SouthCoast Chamber President & region. CEO Rick Kidder. About the Southeastern Mass Alliance Cape Cod Canal Region President of Chambers: & CEO Marie Oliva echoed similar SEMAC includes the following sentiments. chambers: Bristol County, Cape Cod “This alliance is an important step Canal Region, Cranberry Country, in advancing business issues in Plymouth Area, Sandwich, SouthCoast, Massachusetts. SEMAC presents the Taunton Area, Tri-Town and United
New Round of Capital Skills Grant Funding supported by the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board Submitted by MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board For the past 3 years, Governor Baker has made funds available in his statewide Economic Development initiative to support high schools across the State to purchase hard assets that improve technology. Key to the high school applications is the endorsement of their local Workforce Board and requests must align with the region’s priority industry sectors. Schools benefitting in the past include Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School, Dartmouth High School, Old Colony Regional Vocational High School, and New Bedford High School. The past grants have enabled the schools to purchase state of the art CNC lathes and milling machines (GNBVTH), create robotic lab(DHS) s, upgrade auto shops with computer diagnostics (OCVTHS) and create a hitech finance lab (NBHS). This month the Workforce Board reviewed and strongly supported three applications 14
that will create a hi-tech welding shop at Greater New Bedford Voke Tech; install a CAD drafting system at Old Colony and purchase and install a Supply Chain Management system aided by Robotics at NBHS. These applications, if successful, will yield a $1.5 million dollar investment among the three schools. And, more importantly, provide equipment that will prepare our area students to access jobs for the future in Advanced Manufacturing as well as Technical Professional positions. The New Bedford Area Workforce Board is excited about these applications as these labs and shops may create opportunities for adults in evening extension programs in the future. To learn more about the MassHire Greater New Bedford Workforce Board visit our website. The Board is a business led organization appointed by Mayor Jon Mitchell.
Regional. SEMAC was formed in 2018 to provide a more significant voice for the region on Beacon Hill and with our congressional delegation. The alliance works on a consensus model and only weighs in on issues of importance to the region and only speaks as an alliance when all participant chambers have agreed on a position. Each chamber will have the opportunity to take on a leadership role on a rotating basis. Each year, SEMAC will prepare an annual work plan and legislative agenda to be presented to each chamber's respective boards of directors for approval. Once approved, SEMAC will meet in person or by monthly conference call to discuss issues of importance that speak directly to the approved annual agenda, form a collective opinion and choose the best form of communicating with legislators, their members and the public.
ENTERPRISING MINDS Submitted by Joanne Rego, Supported Employment Network Coordinator
MO LIFE, INC. Enhancing the Lives of Individuals with Disabilities with Dignity, Respect and Inclusion. MO LIFE, Inc. has been enhancing the lives of people with disabilities for over 25 years. Founded in 1994 by President Charles K. Murphy, Sr., MO LIFE, Inc. has grown immensely over the past two decades. Recently the agency outgrew its facility and moved to a larger building at 4 Lambeth Park off of Alden Road in Fairhaven, Mass. Although the number of the agency’s consumers has increased in size, the quality of their person centered services and their frequent participation within our community continues to be unique and outstanding attributes of the agency. MO LIFE, Inc. offers career development and job placement services to help the agency’s job seekers acquire meaningful employment at a local business.
MO LIFE, Inc. also offers medical transportation service to the elderly and their caregivers. They also support individuals with disabilities who want to live independently by assisting with acquiring housing and life skills training. MO LIFE, Inc. proudly offers nutritional support to over 300 people on three Wednesdays each month through their MO FOOD=LIFE Pantry in New Bedford. While there is a lot of serious business taking place at MO LIFE, Inc. there are also a lot of fun events and activities for the consumers from MO LIFE, Inc. to choose from to enhance the quality of their lives. Program participants have the opportunity to participate in many community activities. This
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.
www.southcoasthrcouncil.com Sponsored by:
includes trips to sporting events like the Providence Bruins games and Paw Sox games. They have also been fortunate to be able to attend the Red Sox and Patriots Victory Celebration Parades in Boston. Each month program participants can attend the Friends Group Dinner at a local restaurant in the Greater New Bedford Area and socialize over dinner with friends. Every summer, MO LIFE, Inc. takes program participants to Six Flags New England for a fun day at the amusement park. Additionally, MO LIFE, Inc. takes interested participants on an exciting trip to various vacation spots in the northeast of the country including Washington D.C., Hershey Park, Pennsylvania, and Niagara Falls in Canada. Every other year the MO LIFE, Inc. group takes a week long cruise to a sunny exotic island. This year’s destination is a Disney Cruise to Bermuda in October 2019.
How do they do all this for so many people? MO LIFE, Inc. is primarily funded through the Department of Developmental Services, the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission. However, this funding does not sufficiently cover the cost for all the wonderful things that MO LIFE has to offer. Consequently, MO LIFE, Inc., a 501(c) 3 organization, holds various fund raisers throughout the year including a breakfast brunch in the fall and the annual GALA event in the spring. This year’s event will be held on April 6, 2019 at White’s of Westport. The GALA event includes dinner, dancing and a silent auction. Donations and funds raised at these events will directly support the individuals who receive services from MO LIFE, Inc. You may have always wondered what the acronym MO LIFE stands for. It is “Murphy & Others Living Interdependently for Future Endeavors”. It’s a name and a mission that MO LIFE certainly lives up to. For more information about MO LIFE, Inc.’s services and events please visit www.molifeinc.com or call MO LIFE, Inc. at 508-2-5978 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.
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500 Faunce Corner Road Building 100, Suite 120 Dartmouth, MA 02747 508-995-4553 www.sylviagroup.com
We Make a Difference
Annual Sylvia Group Blo
od Drive
ake Sponsor
United Way Clamb
er Sponsor
Buzzards Bay Coalition Wa tershed Ride
Dinn Boys & Girls Club
For our clients. In the community. We make a difference through performance-based insurance and benefits programs designed to improve lives, protect businesses and provide financial security. Discover the difference. FREE PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS
Thursday, April 18, 2019 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
OVER 100 EMPLOYERS
HUNDREDS OF JOB SEEKERS
Employers can register for a table at www.southcoastchamber.com.
SouthCoast Chamber Calendar - Upcoming Events Good Morning SouthCoast! Thurs., March 21 2019 7:30 a.m. -9:00 a.m. Rachel's Lakeside 950 State Rd, Dartmouth, MA 02747 $30 - members $45 - non-members
Business After Hours Thurs. March 21, 2019 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
State of the City Thurs., March 28, 2019 11:00 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Business After Hours
Bayside Lounge 125 Sconticut Neck Rd Fairhaven, MA
New Bedford High School 230 Hathaway Blvd. New Bedford, MA
The Inspired Bath 145 Faunce Corner Road North Dartmouth, MA
Free for Members who register $20 at the doors for members $25 for non-members
$50 per person
Thurs. April 4, 2019 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Free for Members who register $20 at the doors for members $25 for non-members
To register for any event or to view a calendar of upcoming Chamber events, visit www.southcoastchamber.com www.facebook.com/southcoastchamber twitter.com/newbedfordarea www.linkedin.com/company/new-bedford-areachamber-of-commerce