The New Bedford Area
Chamber Focus Business News for and about Members of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
Inside May - June 2014
Message from Campaign Chair.............2 Connecting Activities ..............................3 Good News...............................................6 Chamber Trip............................................8 SCYPN Off the Clock.........................13 Featured Member Discounts................13 Tourism & Travel ..................................14 May - June 2014 Member Spotlight..................................14
Call for Membership Drive Volunteers & Prize Donations -We Need Your Support! special campaign. In addition, nearly 80 business leaders have volunteered to help recruit new members to the Chamber by sharing information about their positive experiences and the many benefits of Chamber membership.
The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding a Membership Campaign on June 10th & 11th, 2014. This new member campaign will include reaching out to nearly 5,000 businesses in the Greater New Bedford Area that are not yet benefiting from Chamber membership. The campaign
Check out photos from recent events on page 11.
will include a mailed invitation and personal phone-calls from business leaders in the region encouraging them to join the Chamber. Jeffrey Pagliuca, Senior Vice President and Relationship Manager of Business Banking at Webster Bank will chair this
See the latest Member Spotlight The SCYPN is hosting their article on page 14. next Off the Clock event. Find out more on page 13.
“As a membership organization, our members are the lifeblood of our organization and its beneficial for us to add new business members who bring with them new viewpoints and ideas and ensures that we are truly representing the needs of our business community to our fullest potential,” said Pagliuca of the campaign. The Chamber provides numerous services for members, including networking and professional development, export services, an electricity discount
Volunteers for the 2013 Membership campaign received prizes ranging from gift certificates to vacation getaways. program, free and low cost marketing, school to career initiatives, trade shows, as well as government affairs programs and advocacy to encourage a positive business climate for the New Bedford Area. continued on page 3
June Good Morning SouthCoast! Features CMO of Zipcar and Presentation of the Small Business of the Year Award The 2014 Small Business of the Year Award will be presented at the Chamber’s next edition of Good Morning SouthCoast! which is scheduled for Thursday, June 19, 2014 from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. at Rachel’s Lakeside, 950 State Road, Dartmouth. This event will also feature a presentation from keynote speaker Brian Harrington Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer of Zipcar. The June edition of Good Morning SouthCoast! is being sponsored by BankFive. continued on page 3
Brian Harrington, Executive Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer of Zipcar
The New Bedford Area Chamber Focus is the official news publication of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce 794 Purchase Street • New Bedford, MA 02740 508-999-5231 • fax 508-999-5237 • focus@newbedfordchamber.com Editor: Rebecca Viera • Photographer: Deborah L. Hynes • Printer: The Standard-Times Board of Directors Chair of the Board Mary Harrington, Schwartz Center for Children Chair Elect David Maher, Lockheed Martin Vice Chair of Government Affairs Joseph Michaud, Law Office of Joseph L. Michaud Vice Chair of Economic Affairs Beth Sylvia Caldwell, Sylvia Group of Insurance Agencies Vice Chair of Membership Advancement Sheila Parker McGlinchey, SouthCoast Media Group Vice Chair of Community Affairs Kim Perry, Waring Sullivan Homes of Memorial Tribute/SCI Treasurer Chuck Mitchell, RothTec Immediate Past Chair Lynne Mastera, Precix President & CEO Roy Nascimento, New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce Directors Henry Arruda, WJFD-FM Stephen Canessa, Southcoast Health Systems Hank Conaty, Acushnet Company Stephen W. Connulty, Paul & Dixon Insurance Wendy Cullum, Michel Cullum & Associates Timothy H. Dyer, Dyer Capital Management Gail Fortes, YWCA of Southeastern Massachusetts Jeffrey Glassman, Darn It, Inc. June Goguen, Bridgewater Savings Bank Ellen Gitlin, Diversified Marketing Group Douglas Leatham, Leatham & Associates, CPA’s Donald Monaghan, Jr., Monaghan Printing Co. Lynn Motta, BankFive Peter J. Muise, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union Jeffrey P. Pagliuca, Webster Bank Jim Pratt, Hodgson Pratt Pratt & Saunders, PC John Sbrega, Bristol Community College A. Jack Silva, Bristol County Savings Bank Carl W. Taber, BayCoast Bank Daniel E. Waltz, Southern Mass Credit Union Martha Worley, Worley Beds Factory Outlet Director Emeritus Joel E. Burns Your Chamber Staff 508-999-5231 President & CEO, Roy M. Nascimento, IOM - Ext. 25 Director of Operations & Finance, Dorothy Botelho, IOM - Ext. 20 Manager of Workforce & Business Development, Ian Abreu - Ext. 24 Supported Employment Network Coordinator, Joanne Rego - Ext. 28 Programs & Events Manager, Caitlin Tapper - Ext. 26 Communications Manager, Rebecca Viera - Ext. 27 Tourism Marketing Coordinator, Ellie Fragata - Ext. 29
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A Message from the Chair of the 2014 Membership Campaign We need your participation to make this upcoming Campaign a success! As the 2014 Membership Campaign Chair, I am asking you to participate in this year’s effort to recruit new members to our organization. Our Membership Campaign is scheduled for June 10th and 11th and serves as an opportunity to not only increase the Chamber’s membership but to also increase the impact we can have on issues that affect the New Bedford and the SouthCoast business community as a whole.
and share information about their positive experiences and the many benefits of membership. But, we still need help to ensure a successful effort and hope that you will consider being a part of this recruitment initiative or, if you know someone who isn’t already a member, tell them about the many benefits that membership offers.
For those who would like to participate in the Campaign as an individual team member or a team captain, please contact Ian Abreu, Manager of Workforce & Business Development at New members mean more businesses the Chamber (508) 999-5231, ext. 24. enter into our network to do business with one another. New members help On behalf of the Board of Directors, bring new ideas and perspectives to thank you in advance for your the organization. New members also anticipated commitment and effort. bring new energy to the Chamber The Chamber would not be what it that changes and challenges the orga- is today without the dedication and nization to be responsive, progressive support of you--our members. and innovative. Membership growth also helps to strengthen the Chamber Sincerely, financially and provides resources that allow us to continue to expand our programs and services. This June, the Chamber will be reaching out to thousands of businesses in the area that are not yet benefiting from Chamber membership. We have committed member volunteers that have already stepped up to support this campaign
Jeffrey P Pagliuca, Esq. Senior Vice-President, Webster Bank 2014 Membership Campaign Chair New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
About the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce With approximately 1,000 member businesses, the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce is committed to providing opportunities for members to advance their business and promoting a healthier business and economic climate for the region. The Chamber is here to help members – with trusted resources, a strong business network
and a support system to keep your business moving forward.
Our mission is to serve the interests of member businesses while advocating business advancement, economic growth and job creation for the benefit of New Bedford and the SouthCoast region of Massachusetts.
Connecting businesses on the SouthCoast from Wareham to Westport
Exciting Developments For Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership The Chamber & partners taking part in numerous important community initiatives School
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The Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership On the mornings of March 27th and 28th, several local community leaders volunteered their time to deliver the CHOICES dropout prevention workshops to over 250 sixth grade students at Roosevelt Middle School in New Bedford. In the two-part, 90-minute session, the presenters took the participating students through real-world exercises on academic self-discipline, time and money management and goal setting. The hands-on activities had awoken students to the fact that they have the power to make important future-impacting decisions right now. In addition, seminar also develops the ideas of time management, selfdiscipline and wise academic decision
making. The program brings home to teenagers the meaning of the term “cost of living,” and thus exposes them to sobering information about the education skills required for various occupations in today’s and tomorrow’s workplace. The volunteers stressed how educational achievement levels will either greatly limit or expand career choices and the ability to financially support oneself or a family. CHOICES Program Manager and New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce Manager of Workforce & Business Development Ian Abreu explained how delivering this workshop to the Roosevelt Middle School students this year was so successful. “I feel the ‘CHOICES’ program made a positive difference in the lives of our participating students by encouraging them to make good decisions and stay in school. The program is fast-paced and participatory, so students are constantly engaged,” he said.
Small Business of the Year Award continued from page 1
As Zipcar’s chief marketing officer, Brian leads Zipcar’s marketing and communication teams with the expertise of someone who is no stranger to the travel industry. Brian is a seasoned leader who is passionate about Zipcar’s ever-evolving efforts, including global brand building, member acquisition and engagement, social media, public relations, and delivering innovative products and services to further enhance the member experience. Prior to joining the Zipcar team, Brian had his own consultancy called Little Harbor Group. He has held leadership roles at Boathouse, a brand communications agency, and I’m in!, a leisure travel website that he co-founded. He was a member of the founding executive teams of Upromise and Connection to eBay, and has held senior roles in sales and marketing at EF Education. Earlier in his career he worked in global marketing for Sheraton Hotels and for Hill Holliday
Presenters for the CHOICES dropout prevention workshop. “The sixth grade students we presented to were so well-behaved and seemed to have really been grasping the concept of this program. The credit really lies with school Principal Margaret Mongiello; she is a wonderful educator and has created a fantastic atmosphere conducive for educational growth.”
Principal Mongiello echoed similar sentiments. “Our students are faced with many choices in today’s world and often do not have the experiences to make wise decisions,” she explained. “The ‘CHOICES’ program helped our 6th continued on page 10
Chamber Membership Campaign continued from page 1
Advertising. Brian holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Boston College, as well as an MBA from the University of Notre Dame. During the June edition, one of the following nominees will be recognized as our 2014 Small Business of the Year Award winner: BRW Property Services Optimum Labs Inc. Seastreak, LLC Thompson Farland, Inc. Tomlinson & O’Neil Insurance Agency The cost is just $20 for members, $25 for non-members and $180 for a table of 10 and includes a buffet breakfast. Pre-registration is required. To reserve a seat for the Good Morning SouthCoast please contact the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce at 508-999-5231, ext. 26 or visit www.newbedfordareachamber.com.
Team captains of the 2013 Membership Campaign In addition, the Chamber’s New Member Campaign will feature several “join now” incentives for businesses and organizations that enroll with the Chamber, including free advertising, website listings, admission to Chamber networking programs and more. Highlighting the campaign will be a two-day, four-session phone-a-thon at the Chamber’s offices on June 10th and 11th. Volunteers will be competing for bragging rights as the top recruiter and
some great prizes including overnight trips, gift certificates to restaurants and stores and much more. Businesses interested in joining the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce or supporting the New Member Campaign should contact Ian Abreu, Manager Workforce & Business Development at (508) 999-5231 ext. 24 or email iabreu@newbedfordchamber.com. 3
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Good News! Insurance Advisor and Certified Webster Promotes Jeff Pagliuca Health Consultant, will join Sylvia’s to Senior Vice President, Business employee benefits division alongside an Banking accomplished and knowledgeable team. Attorney Tara The combined entity will be known as Webster Bank, M. George Paradigm Employee Benefits, a member N.A. announces proudly of The Sylvia Group. that Jeffrey P. announces the Pagliuca of opening of “We’re very excited; having Judy on Taunton, Mass., her Law office board will expand our capacity and has been promoted at 75 State expertise to help more employer clients to senior vice Mary Louise Nunes, CPA, CFF, Road, North build strong benefits plans and longpresident, business CGMA, MST, president and owner Dartmouth, term strategies. We’ve known each banking. He of downtown New Bedford firm MA. After other for years and worked together is based in the M.L. Nunes & Associates Certified working on common projects so I know she Webster banking center at 545 Pleasant Public Accountants, has earned the under another shares our values, high standards, and Street, New Bedford, Mass., where he credentials of Certified in Financial attorney in Fairhaven for eight years, dedication to clients,” said Maureen will continue to serve the southeastern Forensics (CFF) and Chartered Global Attorney George made the decision Sylvia Armstrong, President & CEO of Massachusetts region. Management Accountant (CGMA). to begin her own law offices which The Sylvia Group. symbolize her personal values and Pagliuca joined Webster in 2010 and has “Our firm consistently embraces the ethical standards and is located in the Recognized leaders in the region, the more than 15 years of banking industry challenge of growing the accounting town where she has spent her entire experience. Prior to his promotion, he services we are able to provide,” said life. Attorney George’s practice focuses two family-owned companies share many synergies as well as a sense of was vice president, business banking. Ms. Nunes. “These certifications on but is not limited to bankruptcy, responsibility to the community. The Pagliuca, a graduate of Worcester State reflect our commitment to continuing divorce, estate planning and workers’ powerful combination of Paradigm College and Southern New England our professional development for the compensation. Preparing for one of Benefits and Sylvia Group represents a School of Law, is an attorney and a benefit of our clients.” these issues is extremely mentally and strong client-focused alternative to large member of the Massachusetts Bar emotionally draining. You know that The CFF credential is awarded by the you need the most updated information national companies with an impersonal Association. He serves on the board approach. The combined entity will of directors of the New Bedford Area American Institute of Certified Puband facts in order to make a correct Chamber of Commerce and chairs the lic Accountants (AICPA) exclusively decision for your situation. That is why offer a strengthened service suite of personal and commercial insurance, chamber’s ambassadors council. to CPAs who demonstrate considerthe Law Offices of Tara M. George, employee benefits and financial able expertise in forensic accounting PC offers a free consultation so that services. Child & Family Services Recognizes through their knowledge, skills and clients can get to know Attorney Its Volunteers At The 2nd Annual experience. Forensic accountants utilize George and she is able to assess their Volunteer Appreciation Night accounting, auditing and investigative situation and individual needs and tailor Besse brings deep knowledge in group skills to provide an accounting analysis a solution best to fit their specific set of health benefits with a focus in the large group (50+ employees) market that is suitable for a courtroom in the circumstances. throughout her career. She founded resolution of disputes. The specialization recognizes the accountant’s ability Attorney George is proud to give back Paradigm Benefits Group in 1998 and built a strong book of business while to look beyond the numbers and deal to her town, serving on the Library advocating for her clients. Previously with the business reality of the situation Board of Trustees, The Dartmouth under discussion and debate. Library Foundation, Dartmouth Town she worked for Blue Cross and Blue Shield in both Massachusetts and Meeting Member, member of the Rhode Island, where she gained The CGMA designation is granted Dartmouth 350th Celebration. a hands-on knowledge of the Child & Family Services recently by the Association of International underwriting process. held its second annual Volunteer Certified Accountants, a joint venture The Sylvia Group Acquires Appreciation Night to honor and of the AICPA and the Chartered Paradigm Benefits Group, Move “I’m proud to affiliate with The Sylvia acknowledge their tireless volunteers Institute of Management Accountants Strengthens Employee Benefits Group, and I look forward to helping who freely give their time and talent (CIMA), two of the largest and most Expertise them grow. I know our partnership will and work together to enhance respected accounting organizations in benefit employer groups throughout our community. The Volunteer the world. It recognizes the unique role The Sylvia Group the area as they face increasing benefits Appreciation Night is a special “thank played by management accountants in announced they have complexity and regulation,” Besse said. you” for all their hard work. guiding critical business decisions and acquired Paradigm “I can now offer clients more services driving strong business performance. Benefits Group and support, and we’ve been working to “We are truly grateful to have so many of New Bedford, make this transition seamless.” dedicated people volunteering their MA, an employee talents and time,” said Susan Remy, benefits specialist Director of Development. “They are firm. Founder Judy passionate about helping children and Besse, a Licensed Mary Louise Nunes Of M.L. Nunes & Associates Earns Prestigious Professional Certifications
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Attorney Tara M. George Opens Law Office in North Dartmouth
Good News! families, and go above and beyond to help us carry out our mission.” Volunteers from all walks of life make up the Board of Directors, Hetty’s Thrift Shoppe, Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Advisory Board and mentors, Friends of CFS, and event committees. They are ambassadors for the agency and contribute immensely to fundraising efforts and growth by bringing in new ideas. They offer up their time with “littles” in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program to give children a positive role model, they sell tickets to events to raise monies for programs, they run the thrift shop Monday through Thursday to provide clothing to those in need. They are “priceless”. During the event, Mr. Charles T. Toomey of Paul & Dixon Insurance was presented with the Melody Walsh Volunteer Recognition Award for his long-standing position on Child & Family Services’ Board of Directors. “Volunteer appreciation night is such a heartfelt event in which we recognize all those people who support CFS as volunteers; the true meaning of giving back,” stated Stephen Buckley, 2nd Vice President on the Board of CFS. If you are interested in volunteering with Child & Family Services, please contact Susan Remy at (508) 742-1032 for available opportunities throughout the year. New Bedford Whaling Museum to Break Ground on new Education Center and Research Library
The community is invited to join the Old Dartmouth Historical Society Board of Trustees and Capital Campaign Co-Chairs George B. Mock, III, and Donald S. Rice, on Monday, May 19, at 4 p.m. for the official Ground Breaking Ceremony for the
New Bedford Whaling Museum’s new Education Center and Research Library. The 4 p.m. ceremony will take place on the site of the new building, located on the South side of the Museum on North Water Street. A public reception will follow in the Jacobs Family Gallery.
Whaling NHP and worked for the City Planning Office.
“The leadership transition at the NBEDC has been seamless. With so much going on, such a good transition is a credit to hard work of Derek, Matt, and the entire NBEDC board and team The construction of the new Education members. Derek has a true love for New Bedford, and comes to this new Center and Research Library is the role with 20 years of experience. He most ambitious building project at the has proven over the past six months Museum since the construction of the Historic Bourne Building in 1916. The that he is ready for this new challenge,” said Mitchell. four-floor, 17,000 square foot building will connect to the existing Museum Santos reflected on the transition, “The campus and be constructed on a site NBEDC team is driven to strengthen left vacant since the devastating gas New Bedford’s economy in every explosion of 1977. corner of the city. We have a solid and proven strategy, great partners, The building will house new and desire to make our hometown classrooms, a Digital Reading Room, great. I’m proud of what the team at climate controlled storage vaults the NBEDC and our many partners for collections, a laboratory for the in the public and private sectors have flagship Apprenticeship Program, and a fourth floor multi-use assembly space accomplished under Matt’s leadership, and we are all excited about what the with majestic views of New Bedford future holds.” Harbor. The new center will not only allow the Museum to meet its dramatically expanding programming need and consolidate its holdings onto one campus, but will also bring great and lasting benefits to the region. New Bedford Economic Development Council Names Derek Santos as Director Mayor Jon Mitchell announced the New Bedford Economic Development Council (NBEDC) Board of Directors has named long-time NBEDC team member Derek Santos as the organization’s Executive Director. Santos has served as the Acting Director for the past six months following Matt Morrissey’s departure to lead the City’s launch of the Wind Energy Center, a new public-private partnership established earlier this year within the NBEDC. Santos came to the NBEDC in 2007 to serve as the Director of Business Development and in 2012 was named the Director of Operations. Prior to his work at the NBEDC, Santos was the Historical Architect for New Bedford
Community Connections Recognizes Two Elder Services Employees for 25 Years of Dedicated Service
Late in March there was a recognition luncheon at Lorenzo’s in Middleboro for employees Deb Michalski and Karen Miller, celebrating 25 years of dedicated service at Community Connections in Fall River. Karen Miller came to CCI with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She had experience working with developmentally disabled children and adults, having worked at the Dr. Franklin Perkins School and Crystal Springs in Assonet. She was hired as a Case Manager at our Bay Street location but moved to the Elders population in the 90’s and has been there ever since. She is a thoughtful person who treats our clients with compassion, dignity and respect. She has served as a Human Rights Officer and has previously been recognized as employee of the month.
Deb Michalski also came to CCI in 1989 with an Associate’s Degree in Medical Secretary Science and was hired as an Administrative Assistant for the Fall River Day Hab Program, with over ten years of experience as medical secretary and transcriptionist. She is a very skilled and proficient professional who has contributed greatly to the high quality of services delivered at Day Hab and Elders Services programs that she has supported. She too has been recognized as Employee of the Month over the years for her exceptional work. When asked their reasons they committing 25 years of employment to CCI, Karen stated, “I have committed 25 years to Community Connections for 2 reasons. One is that I truly believe that Community Connections tries very hard to put the client’s interests first. The second reason is because when I’ve had health issues over the years, Community Connections supported me and worked around my health issues…. I feel that not only does the agency show compassion towards their clients, but towards me as an employee as well.” Deb expressed, “I have found it very gratifying working for CCI. This company makes the lives of the disabled population more meaningful by providing a welcoming atmosphere filled with daily activities and community experiences to enhance their lives. I have found the interaction with the people we serve gives a personal aspect to the job that is most heartwarming. I can’t imagine working anywhere else! CCI thanks them both tremendously for their dedication, all that they have contributed to the organization and the profound impact that they have had on the individuals that they serve.
Do you have good news to share? Please send your press releases with photos to focus@newbedfordchamber.com Due to space limitations, we can not guarantee each article will be printed. We do try our best to fit as much member news in as possible.
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Chamber Trip to Madeira, Portugal The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce announced that it is offering a trip to Madeira, Portugal, in September, 2014 for members of the organization, their friends and families. The seven-day, six-night trip runs from September 12 – 19th of 2014. The trip is priced at $2,647 per person for double occupancy and includes round-trip international airfare from Logan International Airport, 4 Star hotel accommodations, hotel transfers, two full day sightseeing tours of Porto Moniz, Cabo Girao, Pico do Areeiro and Santana (both tours include lunch), and one half day tour of Eira do Serrado and Camara de Lobos. All tours The Chamber and the Whaling Museum are sponsoring this trip to Madeira include English-speaking tour guides. in partnership with Fran’s Travel; a Buffet breakfast provided daily. family-owned travel business based out Price is based on double occupancy. A of New Bedford, MA with over thirtytwo years of experience in the travel $300 per person deposit is due at the industry. time of registration and is included in the total fare; non-refundable after A full itinerary and additional June 13, 2014. The trip balance is due before July 28, 2014. A valid passport is information about the trip can be found required. Travelers may obtain optional at www.newbedfordchamber.com. Space cancellation waiver and insurance for an is limited. For more information, please contact Ian Abreu at additional cost. 508-999-5231, ext.24.
Chamber Annual Golf Tournament
Save the Date: Tuesday, September 2, 2014
2014 Chamber Membership Directory & Community Resource Guide is Being Mailed to Members
Country Club of New Bedford 585 Slocum Road Dartmouth, MA 02747
CRN201501-168290
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For information on reservations or sponsorship opportunities, please call the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce at 508-999-5231 or email: events@newbedfordchamber.com
For questions or additional copies, please call the Chamber at 508-999-5231.
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Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership Continued from page 3. graders think more critically as they become young citizens in our city. They also enjoyed interacting with many business people from New Bedford.” CHOICES volunteers included: Warren Gibbons (New Bedford Ocean Explorium), Joshua Amaral (New Bedford School Committee), Nathan Araujo (Spectacular Productions, Inc.), Lindsey Rocha (Child & Family Services of New Bedford), Cheyenne Bayse (New Bedford Cheironeum), Annie-Alice Byers-Scaduto (Ford’s Fine Painting and Interior Design Consulting), Crystal Stone (Stonehaven Photography) and Vanessa Franklin (Southern Mass Credit Union). In other Connecting Activities news, the partnership hosted its first Career Fair at Old Colony Regional VocTech on Monday, March 10th. The fair, which was made available to the entire sophomore class, featured oral presentations from 12 different local employers. The presenting employers
Steve Alves of Stevens Home Improvements speaking to the 10th-grade Old Colony VocTech students. covered topics such as: latest industry trends, current technology in the workplace, proper business etiquette and hiring practices. “Many of the people who presented have already volunteered to serve on some of our advisory boards,” said Old Colony Voc-Tech Superintendent Gary Brown. “Hopefully, these professionals will provide new, innovative ways to approach our programs. New business connections in the community can only mean new more co-op and employment opportunities for our students.”
Presenters included: Miles Grant (National Wildlife Federation), Andrew Faria (iMedia Solutions, LLC), Matthew Medeiros (Slocum Design Studio), Dr. Jean Fox (SouthCoast Rail), Jeanne DiPretoro (Southcoast Health System), Dr. Gail Berman-Martin (UMass Dartmouth Career Center), Steven Alves (Stevens Home Improvements), Nick Dufrense (Thompson Farland Inc.), Jay Lanagan (Thompson Farland Inc.), Diana Painter (SouthCoast Energy Challenge), Jim Scheuneman (ZAPP Precision Strip, U.S.) and Ralph Medeiros (Ralph’s Auto Center). About the Connecting Activities Partnership The Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership, a collaboration of the City of New Bedford Office of the Mayor, the Greater New Bedford Workforce Investment Board and Youth Council, Bristol Community College and the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce, promotes the connecting of academic and workplace learning through Connecting Activities workplace internships. Area employers assist High School seniors to make more informed decisions about their future education and career choices. Currently we service students at Dartmouth High School, Fairhaven High School, Global Learning Charter Public School, New Bedford High School, and Old Rochester Regional High School. More information about the partnership is available at www.newbedfordchamber.com or by calling (508) 999-5231.
Welcome New Members American Cancer Society 5 Manley Street West Bridgewater, MA 02379 Phone: (508) 897-4348
La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries 110 Faunce Corner Mall Road N. Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (508) 993-9092
The Arc of Greater New Bedford 412B County St. New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (508) 996-8551
BRW Property Services LLC 2 Hidden Drive Fairhaven, MA 02719 Phone: (508) 685-9934
Leo Choquette, JD, MS/ New York Life 1399 Phillips Rd. New Bedford, MA 02745 Phone: (508) 441-7508
Unemployment Services Corporation P.O. Box 346 333 North Avenue Wakefield, MA 01880-0746 Phone: (508) 404 9164
New York Life Insurance Company 2173 Pleasant St. Fall River, MA 02723 Phone: (774) 322-7062
Whaler’s Place 90 Riverside Ave. New Bedford, MA 02746 Phone: (508) 997-1110
FAB Flooring 1068 Slade St. Fall River, MA 02724 Phone: (508) 617-4120 Grand Wedding Expo, Inc. PO Box 70051 Dartmouth, MA 02747 Phone: (508) 472-3093 KM Interior Design & Home Staging 800 Pleasant St. Unit 1101 New Bedford, MA 02740 Phone: (774) 473-9527 10
Spectacular Productions, Inc. 875 State Road Westport, MA 02790 Phone: (508) 617-2051 South Coast Consulting LLC P.O. Box 1513 34 Barstow St. Mattapoisett, MA 02739 Phone: (508) 789-2621
Interested in joining? Contact the Chamber (508) 999-5231 or join online at www.newbedfordchamber.com
Recent Events
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1. The 26th Annual Greater New Bedford Home Show had nearly 2,000 attendees and 100 exhibitors.
4. Guests at the March Business After Hours at the Hampton Inn/Fairhaven
5. The SouthCoast Legislative Luncheon at 2. The Chamber’s State of the City Luncheon Cotali Mar Restaurant featured Attorney brought nearly 500 guests to Greater New General Martha Coakley as the Keynote Bedford Voc-Tech to hear from City of New Speaker. Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell. 6. The executive chef from Cork presented 3. The Chamber joined Anytime Fitness for a a cooking demo at the Greater New Bedford ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening Home Show. of their Dartmouth location.
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Business After Hours
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6. Thursday May 15, 2014 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
Thursday, June 12, 2014 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
Bristol Community College 800 Purchase St. Room 216 & 219 New Bedford, MA 02740
BankFive 1724 Acushnet Ave. New Bedford, MA
Sponsored by:
Sponsored by:
Register online for upcoming Business After Hours by visiting www.newbedfordchamber.com or calling (508) 999-5231.
7. City of New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell delivering the State of the City Address. 8. April Business After Hours at BayCoast Bank. 9. The DCAMM workshop provided a great resource for contractors interested in public bidding. 10. The Chamber joined Frontera Grill in Fairhaven for a ribbon cutting ceremony. 11
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May - June Featured Member Discounts New Bedford Whaling Museum
First Hour *FREE on a first time rental for all Chamber Members. Up to $1,000 value. Perfect for meetings, conferences, retreats, receptions, holiday parties and more.
*3 hour rental minimum required for discount to apply To book your event, contact: 508-997-0046 ext.133 Specialevents@whalingmuseum.org
FAB Flooring 10% Discount
FAB Flooring will offer 10% off all sales for chamber members.
For more information: phone: (508) 617-4120 email: ehdarling@comcast.net
To set up your discount or to view a complete list of discounts currently available to Chamber members, please visit www.newbedfordchamber.com or call 508-999-5231
SCYPN Off the Clock: Painting with a Purpose Tuesday, May 20, 2014 5:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m. New Bedford Art Museum/Artworks! 608 Pleasant Street New Bedford, MA 02740 The SouthCoast Young Professionals Network and New Bedford Art Museum/ArtWorks! invite you to join us for an evening of painting, networking, and creating awareness for the amazing work that the Veterans Transition House does to help homeless and at-risk veterans and their families in the Massachusetts SouthCoast area. A portion of event proceeds will be donated to the Veterans Transition House. A local artist will walk attendees through this step-by-step painting class and each participant will go home with their very own piece of artwork! “Off the Clock” is not your typical networking event. Off the Clock blends educational opportunities with peer to peer networking among young professionals in the SouthCoast. The cost for this event is $25 for members and $35 for non-members.
An example of the work created at an art party at New Bedford Art Museum/ Artworks! Advance reservations are required online at www.newbedfordchamber. com or by calling 508-999-5231. If you would like to receive more information about the SouthCoast Young Professionals Network please contact Rebecca Viera at 508-999-5231 or email rviera@newbedfordchamber.com. * Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and refreshments will be provided.
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Chamber Tourism & Travel Update
The Southeastern Massachusetts Visitors Bureau (SMVB) is taking on new strides to create brand recognition for Southeastern Massachusetts and its businesses. If you want to get your business, attraction or event featured on the SMVB website -
www.visitsemass.com, you can post content directly to the site and once approved by the SMVB it will launch. The SMVB is also looking for coop partners to purchase ad space in some of the leading travel industry publications like Boston Globe Magazine Travel Issue, Rhode Island Monthly Travel Issue, Canadian Traveller and Boston Magazine. Learn more about co-op advertising opportunities with Southeastern Massachusetts and get your business or event promoted to target markets both domestically and internationally. For more information on visitsemass. com business/event listings or to partner in an ad, please call Ellie Fragata at 508-999-5231 ext. 29, email efragata@visitsemass.com or go to www.visitsemass.com.
Managing Your Unemployment Costs An Informative Seminar for Employers Join us on Tuesday, May 13th from 8:30-10:00 a.m. at the Chamber office located at 794 Purchase Street, New Bedford for an informational seminar presented by Scott Pachico, Client Services Manager, at Unemployment Services Corporation. The seminar will explain how the unemployment system works, what types of claims can be successfully protested, how the unemployment system favors claimants and how to ensure a level playing field when attending a hearing. Additionally, Scott will provide attendees with best practices to follow when dealing with the Massachusetts Division of Unemployment Assistance.
This seminar is geared toward employers with more than 50 employees. There will be ample time following Scott’s presentation for Q&A. This workshop is free but registration is required. To register online visit www.newbedfordchamber.com or call 508-999-5231, ext. 26.
Member Spotlight: BAYADA Home Health Care With over 40 different Home Health Care providers available to residents all throughout the greater SouthCoast alone, there is no doubt that there are a plethora of choices. Whether it’s through their highly organized structure, wide range of professional services or community involvement, BAYADA Home Health Care of North Dartmouth continues to do its due diligence to set itself apart from its competition.
checks, to our rigorous ongoing skills assessments and training requirements, we ensure our health care professionals meet the highest standards. Every BAYADA caregiver is a fully insured employee, and once assigned to a client’s care team, they receive one-on-one orientation and regular supervisory visits.” Needleman explained that one of BAYADA’s most treasured assets is its diversity of professional services.
BAYADA Home Health Care provides nursing, rehabilitative, therapeutic, hospice and assisted care services to children, adults and seniors through more than 280 offices in 22 different states. BAYADA’s first ever location opened back in 1975 in Philadelphia, PA.
“Our team includes many types of specialists and services, allowing us to meet each client’s unique need,” she acknowledged.” If care needs change over time, BAYADA can easily transition clients to our other services in their area and provide continuity of care.”
Its 341 State Rd. (Rt.6) location opened during the fall of 2012.
Since BAYADA Home Health Care is still a fairly new provider throughout the SouthCoast, educating potential new patients about the value of its services can oftentimes be troublesome. Needleman believes that the best way to get recognized is to become an active stakeholder within community.
“We are a mission-driven organization of like-minded professionals who believe in providing the highest quality care The BAYADA Way,” said Dartmouth location Director Cathleen Needleman. “From our in-depth interview process and background 14
“At BAYADA, we believe it is important to provide community service where we live and work, and to give back to the communities in which we serve,” she said. “It is one of the core beliefs in our company’s guiding philosophy – The BAYADA Way – that governs our work every day.” On the local level, BAYADA actively participates in the New Bedford-based “Estates to Plates” food pantry drive. They also offer free blood pressure clinics as well as various educational/ informative seminars throughout the community.
Furthermore, Needleman also believes that being an active member of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce is just as important. “I feel it is important for BAYADA to be an active member of the Chamber so we can be active with the local businesses in providing community support,” she said. If you would like more information about BAYADA Home Health Care, please contact them at (508) 994-1003, or, feel free to log onto their website at www.bayada.com.
ENTERPRISING MINDS by Joanne Rego, Supported Employment Network Coordinator
Summertime is Almost Here! You Can Find the Extra Employees You Need Through the Supported Employment Network! Summer is right around the corner. Many businesses will see an increase in business which will require that they train and hire a few new temporary part time employees. Many businesses have indicated that sometimes finding good employees who are willing to take on a temporary part time position can be time consuming and it is not always an easy task. The New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce’s Supported Employment Network has some good news for businesses trying to fill those very important temporary summertime positions. Our Supported Employment Network members are agencies that assist individuals with disabilities in finding employment in our community. Better Community Living, Inc.; Lifestream, Inc.; and M.O.Life, Inc. all have skilled and trained job seekers available to fill those temporary part time summertime positions.
and waiting for a part time employment opportunity, you can contact any of our Supported Employment Network Agencies. The supported employment program contacts are: Jon Perry at Better Community Living, Inc. 508-999-4300; Mark Jardin at Lifestream, Inc. 508-991-4840; and Cynthia Rapoza at M.O.Life, Inc. at 508-992-5978.
Wednesday, May 21, 2014 - 5:30 PM Location: Bittersweet Farms, 438 Main Rd, Westport, MA 02790 Topic: Annual Meeting and Induction of Officers Cost: $38
For more information or to register, contact Dorothy Botelho at dbotelho@newbedfordchamber.com or 508-999-5231 ext. 20.
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 New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce at 508-999-5231 ext. 28.
The job seekers are eager to come and work at your company. Most job seekers have job experience including a successful work history. If your business would like to offer a summertime position to one of the many skilled individuals who are ready
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As Trusted Advisors, we work with our clients to reduce their total cost of risk and make them more attractive to the insurance marketplace. We help our clients attract and retain the best employees through the design and implementation of effective benefits programs. Don’t settle for the tip of the iceberg. Dive below the water line and find out what insurance strategies and services are missing from your insurance program. 500 Faunce Corner Road, Building 100, Suite 120, Dartmouth, MA 02747 (508) 995-4553 or (800) 466-5939 www.sylviainsurance.com Trusted Advisors Dedicated to our Clients and Community
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New Bedford Chamber Calendar - Upcoming Events Managing Your Unemployment Costs Tuesday, May 13, 2014 8:30 a.m. -10:00 a.m. Chamber Office 794 Purchase St. New Bedford, MA Free
May Business After Hours Thursday, May 15th 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Bristol Community College 800 Purchase St. Room 216 & 219 New Bedford, MA 02740 Members - Free Non-Members - $15
SCYPN Off the Clock: Painting with a Purpose Tuesday, May 20th 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. New Bedford Art Museum/ArtWorks! 608 Pleasant Street New Bedford, MA $25 Members $35 for non-members
June Business After Hours Thursday, June 12, 2014 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. BankFive 1724 Acushnet Ave. New Bedford, MA Members - Free Non-Members - $15
June Good Morning SouthCoast!/Small Business of the Year Award Thursday, June 19, 2014 7:30-9:00 a.m. Rachel’s Lakeside 950 State Road Dartmouth, MA Members - $20 Non-members - $25
Membership Campaign Tuesday & Wednesday June 10th & 11th 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
To register for any event, or to view a calendar of upcoming Chamber events, visit www.newbedfordchamber.com
Chamber Office 794 Purchase St. New Bedford, MA www.facebook.com/ newbedfordareachamber twitter.com/newbedfordarea www.linkedin.com/company/ new-bedford-area-chamberof-commerce