March / April - New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce

The New Bedford Area
Chamber Focus
Business News for and about Members of the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
March - April 2011
2011 Legislative Luncheon With Keynote
Speaker Lieutenant Governor Timothy P. Murray
The New Bedford Area Chamber of
Commerce will bring Beacon Hill to
the Greater New Bedford Area when
it hosts Lieutenant Governor Timothy
P. Murray as the keynote speaker at its
SouthCoast Legislative Luncheon at
Hawthorne Country Club, 970 Tucker
Rd., North Dartmouth, on Thursday,
April 28, 2011. The event is co-sponsored by Southcoast Hospitals Group
and Southern Mass Credit Union.
Lieutenant Governor Murray will be
discussing the administration’s legislative agenda. Afterwards, attendees will
have the opportunity to participate in
a Question & Answer session with the
Lt. Governor.
Timothy P. Murray was elected
Lt. Governor in September of 2006.
Prior to his election as Lt. Governor,
Tim was first elected to the Worcester
City Council in 1997 and became
mayor in 2001. Under Tim’s leadership,
Worcester experienced unprecedented
progress, with $1 billion of new
Steve Canessa, Robert Koczera, Susan
Williams Gifford, Christopher Markey,
Paul A. Schmid, David B. Sullivan, William M. Straus and others.
Check-in for the event starts at 11:45
a.m., with the luncheon beginning at
12 noon. The cost of the event is $35
for members and $45 for non-memThe SouthCoast Legislative Luncheon
is an opportunity for business and com- bers, with tables of 10 also available.
Advance reservations are required by
munity leaders to meet with legislators
Thursday, April 21st and can be easily
and hear first hand what is in store on
Beacon Hill for the business community. made by calling the New Bedford Area
Chamber of Commerce at 508-999-5231.
Invited legislators include Senators
Mark Montigny and Michael Rodrigues; Online reservations can also be made at
www.newbedfordchamber.com.
Representatives Antonio Cabral,
State of the City Luncheon - Update From the Mayor
Mayor Scott W. Lang’s final State of
the City Address will be presented over
lunch on Thursday, March 24th at Café
Funchal, located at 123 Church Street,
New Bedford. Each year, the Mayor of
the City of New Bedford reflects on
the year passed and identifies the future
direction of the City.
The annual Luncheon is sponsored by
Webster Bank and hosted by the New
Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
and the Joint Service Organizations of
New Bedford.
The cost, which includes a family style
lunch, is $28 per
continued on page 14...
President/CEO Update ......................2
Call for Small Business of the Year ..3
2011 Trip to China ................................4
Good News ..........................................6
2011 Home & Garden Show .............8
Upcoming Chamber Meetings ...........9
Member Highlight .............................10
Member-to-Member Discount ........15
2011 SouthCoast
Women’s Forum to explore
the “Business of Food”
economic development projects that
are helping to transform an older
industrial city into one that is wellpositioned to lead and grow in the new
economy.
As Lt. Governor, Tim works closely
with Governor Patrick on the important issues facing our Commonwealth.
In addition, he chairs six councils:
Governor’s Council; Seaport Advisory
Council; Governor’s Advisory Council on Veterans Services; Interagency
Council on Substance Abuse and
Prevention; Interagency Council
on Domestic Violence and Sexual
Abuse; and Interagency Council on
Homelessness & Housing.
Inside March - April 2011
The 2011 SouthCoast Women’s Forum
is scheduled for Thursday, May 19,
2011 from noon to 2:00 p.m. at the
Hawthorne Country Club, 970 Tucker
Road, North Dartmouth. This year’s
theme is “The Business of Food” and
will focus on women run businesses in
all aspects of the food industry ranging
from growers, restaurants, distribution,
and processing. The program will
feature a panel of women entrepreneurs
discussing the challenges and opportunities with running their business in the
continued on page 9...
food industry.
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 • [email protected]
Editor: Kate Ouellette
Photographer: Deborah L. Hynes
Printer: The Standard-Times
Deadline for the November/December Chamber Focus: All press releases, photos, and ads must
be sent to [email protected] by October 15, 2010 to be considered for the
November/December newsletter.
Board of Directors
Officers
Chair of the Board
Lynne Mastera, Precix
Chair-Elect
Mary Harrington, Schwartz Center for Children
Vice Chair of Government Affairs
David Maher, Lockheed Martin Sippican
Vice Chair of Community Affairs
Minnie Saleh, Sovereign Bank
Vice Chair of Economic Affairs
Jose S. Castelo, The Castelo Group
Vice Chair of Membership Advancement
Jim Rattray, Southcoast Hospitals
Treasurer
Chuck Mitchell, RothTec
Immediate Past Chair
James R. Pratt, Jr., Hodgson Pratt & Associates, P.C.
President & CEO
Roy Nascimento, New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce
Directors
Beth Sylvia Caldwell, Sylvia Group of Insurance Agencies
Ray Cebula, Acushnet Company
Timothy H. Dyer, Dyer Capital Management
Dennis Galvam, NSTAR
June Goguen, Bridgewater Savings Bank
Ellen Gitlin, Diversified Marketing Group
Liz Isherwood, Moore & Isherwood, Inc.
Charlene J. Jarest, Lafrance Hospitality
Valarie Lacasse, Bristol County Savings Bank
Douglas Leatham, Leatham & Associates, CPA’s
Eugene Lonergan, Merrill Lynch
Joseph Michaud, Law office of Joseph L. Michaud
Donald Monaghan, Jr., Monaghan Printing Co.
Lynn Motta, BankFive
Peter J. Muise, First Citizens’ Federal Credit Union
Chris O’Neil, Tomlinson and O’Neil Insurance Agency
Kevin Pelland, Citizens-Union Savings Bank
Kim Perry, Waring-Sullivan Funeral Homes
John Sbrega, Bristol Community College
Paul Vigeant, South Coast Development Partnership
Director Emeritus
Del Rocha
Joel E. Burns
Your Chamber Staff
508-999-5231
President, Roy M. Nascimento - Ext. 25
Director of Operations & Finance, Dorothy Botelho - Ext. 20
Supported Employment Network Coordinator, Joanne Rego - Ext. 28
Communications Director, Kate Ouellette - Ext. 27
Events Manager, Robyn Branco - Ext. 26
Greater New Bedford Connecting Activities Partnership - Ext. 5
2
Quick Hits
A brief update on Chamber Activities from the President/CEO
For 125 years,
the New Bedford
Area Chamber of
Commerce has
been the organization of choice
for businesses
in Greater New
Bedford. As our
economy, our
Roy Nascimento, IOM,
communities and President & CEO
our society have
evolved over time, so too has
the Chamber. It is time once again
for us to reflect on our strengths and
weaknesses and to adjust our course
to better serve your future needs.
I am also happy to report that the transition to our new member relationship
software has been moving ahead well.
The new software, which consolidates
several older databases and programs,
will help us to better service our members. The Chamber staff has been undergoing training on the new program.
We have also been busy redesigning the
Chamber website and integrating new
and enhanced features. You will start
to notice some changes to the website
starting in April.
In other news, the Chamber is once
again helping to organize an International Seafood Buyers Tour of the New
Bedford Waterfront in March. Last
In March, the Chamber’s Board of
year’s tour resulted in several million in
Directors and staff will be participating sales for local companies. We are also
in an all-day strategic planning retreat
planning another trip to China from
where we will be reviewing our mission, November 1 – 9, 2011. Last year’s trip
relevancy, goals and the programs that
sold out! This year, we have also added
our members and our communities
a trip to Hong Kong and Thailand.
need from the Chamber. In preparation Details about both trips will be available
for this planning exercise, we conducted soon on the Chamber’s website.
a survey last fall to gather research
about our members and their needs and Finally, we have put the finishing
concerns. Every few years we undergo touches on the 2011 edition of the
this process to set our priorities for the Chamber’s Membership Directory &
Community Resource Guide and hope
future. We recognize that, as with all
businesses, this type of strategic, long- to have it in your hands by the end
of March. Keep an eye out for this
term planning is critical. This process
will help us shape a vision for the future valuable publication!
and ensure that the New Bedford Area
Sincerely,
Chamber of Commerce remains as
vibrant and relevant in the next 125
years as the last. We will have more
to report to you later this year. In the
meantime, I welcome your input and
encourage you to email me with any
ideas, recommendations or general
feedback that would be helpful in
this process.
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.
The 2011 Annual Membership Directory &
Community Resource Guide, Printed & Mailed
Call for Small Business of the Year Nominations
We are pleased to announce our 2011
Membership Directory and Community
Resource Guide has been printed and is
being delivered to Chamber members.
The Directory is a comprehensive and
valuable tool for members as well as
others who use the publication for
relocation and purchasing decisions.
When doing business, we encourage
you to think of other Chamber members and refer business to one another.
The 2011 edition of Community Guide
includes a complete listing of Chamber
members; in-depth community profiles
that highlight the ten communities we
serve; and several full color sections
that promote the economic growth
of the SouthCoast region. Sections
including Arts & Culture, Tourism &
Recreation, and Business & Industry
show fresh and interesting perspectives
on our area that you won’t want to miss!
Please contact us if you would like
additional copies to provide to your
Small Business of the Year Nominees for 2010.
The Chamber recognizes the
contributions smaller businesses and
entrepreneurs make to the creation of
new jobs and economic opportunities
clients or customers. Also, your sugges- in the SouthCoast region. We would like
tions for improving the services that we to commend small businesses for their
provide to you and our other members valuable contributions to our communities by awarding the 2011 Small
are always welcome. Please contact us
Business of the Year Award.
anytime at 508-999-5231 or email
[email protected] with
Nominating someone is easy...
any ideas you may have.
You may nominate your own business
or any other business you deem worthy.
Submit a summary of your reasons for
the nomination, based on employment/
staying power, growth, innovation and
social responsibility. Call the Chamber
office for nomination forms, 508-9995231. Nominees do not need to be
members of the Chamber, but must be
a for-profit business. Nominations are
due by April 15th.
Winners will be selected by the Chamber’s
Award Selection Committee and will
be announced at the Good Morning
SouthCoast! Small Business Award
Ceremony, sponsored by BankFive.
3
2011 Business & Community Trip to China - November 1st to November 9th
New Trip to Hong Kong & Thailand also available this Fall
China is the adventure of a lifetime,
and based on the strong response to the
2009 and 2010 trips, the New Bedford
Area Chamber is offering another
nine-day, all inclusive trip that runs from
November 1 to November 9, 2011.
The trip will take travelers through
some of China’s ancient cities, such as
Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou.
Highlights of the trip include a visit to
the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden
City and Tian An Men Square.
person if the registrations are made by
April 30, 2011 and payment is made by
cash or check. The price increases $100
after April 30th. Both trips include bus
transportation to and from the SouthCoast to JFK International Airport,
round trip international airfare, four
and five star hotel accommodations,
all in-country transportation, three
meals a day and fluent English speaking
tour guides.
Price for both trips are based on
double occupancy. A $200 per person
In addition, the Chamber is also offering non-refundable fee is due at the time of
a separate trip this year to Hong Kong registration and is included in the total
and Thailand, also from November 1 to fare. The trip balance is due before July
November 9, 2011. This trip will visit
28, 2011. A valid passport is required.
Bangkok, Pattaya, Ayuthaya and Hong
The Chamber is sponsoring these trips
Kong. Highlights of this trip include
in partnership with Citslinc International,
the Golden Palace, Emerald Buddha,
Inc., a Chamber member travel company
Anata Samakhom Throne Hall, Klong
Tour, Thonburi Canal trip, Four Face
with 29 years of experience in the China
tour business.
Buddha and more.
The early bird registration for the
China trip is $2,050 per person and the
Hong Kong/Thailand trip is $2,649 per
4
An itinerary and additional information
about the trip can be found at
www.newbedfordchamber.com/china.htm.
The New England Business Bulletin is
Seeking Nominations for the 2011 Top
Young Professionals Under 40
The New England Business Bulletin,
a product of SouthCoast Media Group,
is proud to announce the third annual
Top Young Professionals Under 40
Awards Program.
The “Top 40” recognizes select men
and women under the age of 40 who
are helping to shape the future through
their business and community involvement. These men and women are
leaders today and are sure to be part
of the next generation that will continue
to make Southeastern Massachusetts
and Rhode Island a great place to live
and work.
we’ve recognized have each achieved
professional success before the age
of 40 in private, public and non-profit
endeavors.”
If you know professionals who are
deserving of the honor, please nominate them. Or, if you want to become
part of this special group and you’re
under the age of 40, we encourage
“Since we began the Top Young
you to nominate yourself. Nominations
Professional award two years ago, we’ve are being accepted online on
discovered the amazing depth of talent www.NEBulletin.com now through
that the region holds in outstanding
July 29, 2011. Recipients will be
young professionals who are actively
highlighted in the December 1, 2011
shaping the region’s future,” said New
edition of The New England Business
England Business Bulletin editor Beth
Bulletin and recognized at the Awards
Perdue. “The exceptional individuals
Breakfast Bash on December 13, 2011.
5
Good News!
George A. Amanzio has joined
Coastal Community Capital’s SBA
and direct lending division serving
small businesses in the Southeastern
Massachusetts area and throughout the
State of Massachusetts. He is based at
the Centerville office located at 5 Shoot
Flying Hill Road, Centerville, MA.
Coastal Community Capital has been
a major SBA 504 lender on Cape Cod
since 2005. In addition, Coastal Community Capital provides direct loans
and SBA 7(a) loan packing for local
community banks through the
Southeastern, Massachusetts area.
Amanzio has more than 16 years of
small business financing experience
with 10 years focused in U.S. SBA
lending. Amanzio has worked for such
companies as Textron Business Credit,
Business Loan Express and Popular
Small Business Capital a division of
Banco Popular. He holds a Bachelors
Degree in Business Administration
from Northwood University and is a
13-year U.S. Navy Veteran.
“I feel we are fortunate to have
a person of George’s extensive SBA
background in the Southeastern,
Massachusetts market,” Says Jeannine
Marshall, Executive Director.
Coastal Community Capital was created
in 1995 and promotes economic
development through small business
growth. Its core activities include
business lending and support through
various lending programs. For more
information, please visit
www.CoastalCommunityCapital.org
A new annual
recreational
fishing tournament to be held
in the Port of
New Bedford is
set to reel in funds
for the Schwartz
Center for
Children.
The inaugural “Fishing for a Cause”
Charity Fishing Tournament will be
held on June 17-18, 2011 with Popes
Island serving as home base.
6
Tournament organizers are asking
anglers to save the date for this Father’s
Day Weekend event. Early Registration
deadline is June 1, 2011. The two-day
event will include onshore family-fun
activities at Pope’s Island and on the
harbor, a dinner gala, silent and live
auctions and an awards day barbeque.
The fishing catch will be donated to
Market Ministries, a local food pantry.
Cost: RJD members, $8.00;
non-members, $10.00, at door.
a beautiful keepsake book that will
become a part of the YWCA archives.
Please visit www.rjdmuseum.org for
more information. RSVP online at
www.semaponline.org.
Anyone can participate. You can honor
a woman by telling her story, or you can
leave a legacy by telling your own story.
Your participation will not only inspire
other women, but also specifically meet
tangible needs of women and children
through a $500 contribution to the
YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts.
YWCA
Southeastern
Massachusetts
is celebrating
The event is a bluefish, striper and fluke 100 years. Many
exciting programs and events will be
tournament, with trophies awarded to
unveiled throughout the year to comanglers bringing in the highest weight
total for each species. Registered anglers memorate this historic milestone. This
is an exciting time to get involved with
will receive tickets for the dinner on
the YWCA.
Friday evening and the Saturday BBQ
and awards presentation. The event
Incorporated in the city of New Bedford
is open to all size recreational fishing
in 1911, for the last 100 years the
boats. Participants are encouraged to
YWCA has provided the community
register early, as the number of boats
with mission-based programs and
that can participate is limited.
services that have continually evolved
to meet the ever changing socio and
The tournament planning committee
economic needs of women, girls and
is seeking sponsors, supporters and
their families. In 1911, YWCA girls in
volunteers. Donations for the silent
New Bedford were instructed in first
and live auction are also being sought.
dressmaking, embroiInterested parties looking to participate aid, millinery,
th
century
English literature,
dery,
19
can contact Fishing For A Cause at
poetry,
German
and
French. Today,
[email protected]. For more
YWCA
Southeastern
Massachusetts
information, visit
continues
this
tradition
of empowerwww.schwartzcenter.org or
ing
young
girls
though
financial
literacy
www.facebook.com/FishingForACause.
opportunities, racial justice education,
philanthropy, communication skills and
Southeastern Massachusetts
leadership development.
Agricultural Partnership (SEMAP)
in collaboration with The RotchJones-Duff House and local
organic landscaper and gardener,
Jessica Duphily Cook, will offer a ‘New
Beginnings’ talk on how to design
and prepare your garden for springtime
planting. On Tuesday March 29th at
Rotch-Jones-Duff House & Garden
Museum, 396 County St., New Bedford,
the program will be begin at 7:30 p.m.
Learn more about the positive benefits
of growing and enjoying your own
vegetables, fruit and herbs. Program
content will provide an overview of
organic gardening techniques and
tried-and-true methods to guide you
in creating a healthy landscape and
beautiful garden environment. Don’t
miss this opportunity to begin your
garden planning and kick-start the
growing season!
For 100 years, women of all ages and
backgrounds have walked through the
doors of the YWCA seeking help or
giving help to others. One hundred
years of women have left an impact on
the lives of women in New Bedford
and throughout Southeastern Massachusetts through their generous acts
of the heart. The leadership of these
community women lives in the legacy
of the YWCA today. It’s time to honor
these women as a part of our community’s rich history and the tapestry of
the YWCA.
To participate in this once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity, please call Gail Fortes
at the YWCA: 508-999-3255 or go to
www.ywcasema.org/celebrating-100-years
The Ocean
Explorium is
hosting a series
of speakers
every Thursday in
March. The month-long theme
Girls Interested in Real Life Science
(GIRLS) aims to engage young women
in the study and application of the
STEM subjects of Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics.
March 17: Gina Cerrito, Marine
Educator with New England Aquarium
March 24: Faith Ball, Engineer with
Lockheed Martin Sippican
March 31: Rhonda Moniz, Dive Safety
Instructor, Entrepreneur
Now in its third year, this series is made
possible through the support of the
Women’s Fund, a Fund of the Community Foundation of Southeastern
Massachusetts. Each week’s event will
begin with a reception from 5:00 p.m.
- 5:30 p.m., followed by the talk from
5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. This talk series is
free and open to the public.
For more information, please visit
www.oceanexplorium.org.
Boston
Magazine
recently named
The 100 Women for 100 Years
Trey H. Whalley,
commemorative book will honor the
CFA®, Senior
lives of 100 women. Stories and photos Financial
will be compiled into a 100th anniversary Planner at
special edition book. This is a special
MetLife
way to compile the stories of women
Resources, a
who lead, achieve and inspire in
“Five Star
Good News!
Wealth Manager” in the Boston,
MA area.
The resulting list of 2011 FIVE STAR
Wealth Managers is an elite group,
representing less than 3 percent of the
20,000 plus wealth managers in the
Boston area. The list appeared in the
February 2011 edition of the magazine.
Trey is a longtime Fairhaven resident
where he lives with his wife and two
daughters and is President of the
Fairhaven Improvement Association.
He has over 15 years of investment
management experience, holds the
Chartered Financial Analyst designation
and is a member of the Boston Securities
Analyst Society. Trey is also a graduate
of the University of Massachusetts.
To be considered for the FIVE STAR
Program, each client respondent is
asked to evaluate only wealth managers
whom they have worked with and each
peer respondent is asked to evaluate
only wealth managers whom they know
through personal experience. Client respondents evaluate wealth managers on
nine criteria: customer service, integrity,
knowledge/expertise, communication,
value for fee charged, whether the
wealth manager meets client financial
objectives, post sale service, quality
of recommendations and overall
satisfaction.
The New
Bedford Whaling
Museum
had been
nominated to
receive the
National Medal
for Museum
Service. Presented annually by the
Institute of Museum and Library
Sciences (IMLS), the prestigious
award is given to “honor outstanding
American museums and libraries that
have made extraordinary contributions
to their communities.”
The nomination was made by
Congressman Barney Frank. “The New
Bedford Whaling Museum serves as an
invaluable and unique resource that has
been of great benefit for both scholars
and the general public. In recognition
of its extraordinary service to the community, I am pleased to nominate the
Whaling Museum for an Institute of
Museum and Library Sciences National
Medal,” Congressman Frank said.
Headquartered in Washington, DC, the
mission of the IMLS is to create strong
libraries and museums that connect
people to information and ideas. The
Institute works at the national level and
in coordination with state and local organizations to sustain heritage, culture,
and knowledge; enhance learning and
innovation; and support professional
development.
The New Bedford Whaling Museum
is the world’s most comprehensive
museum devoted to the global story of
whales and whaling. The cornerstone
of New Bedford Whaling National
Historical Park, the Museum is located
at 18 Johnny Cake Hill in the heart
of the city’s historic downtown and
is open daily. For a complete calendar
of events, visit the Whaling Museum
online at www.whalingmuseum.org.
Greater New
Bedford
Regional
Vocational
Technical
High School this
month saluted 94
students who have
qualified for four years of free tuition
at one of the state’s public colleges
or universities. The students earned
the John and Abigail Adams merit
scholarships based on their excellent
scores on the Massachusetts
Comprehensive Assessment System
(MCAS) exam.
This is the seventh class at GNB
Voc-Tech to receive these awards.
They provide free tuition, starting in
the fall of 2011, at any University of
Massachusetts campus or any participating state or community college.
GNB Voc-Tech serves the City of New
Bedford and Towns of Dartmouth and
Fairhaven. Last year, more than 75%
of its graduates said they planned to
further their education at colleges, universities or advanced technical schools.
GNB Voc-Tech is an accredited
member of the New England
Association of Schools and Colleges.
Serlingpa Meditation invites you to
experience inner peace Sunday mornings. For a guided meditation and to
receive practical Buddhist advice that
you can use in your daily life, take part
in the meditation session at Serlingpa,
512 Pleasant Street (between Spring
& Union St), from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.,
$8 suggested donation.
Is meditation new to you? Are you
curious about Serlingpa Meditation
Center? Come meet your neighbors
at our Open House. This special day
is an opportunity to come see the
Center, meet our Resident Teacher
and our community, and enjoy refreshments and a special video presentation.
A guided meditation will be led by
Kelsang Chokyi from 10:30 a.m. to
11:00 a.m. No meditation experience
is needed. Everyone is welcome!
This event is FREE. For more
information, please visit
www.MeditationInMass.org or call
508-979-8277.
As part of its efforts to provide
customers the latest in banking
technology and convenience,
Rockland Trust announces the
introduction of a full range of mobile
banking services.
One of the most exciting features of
the mobile banking suite is a groundbreaking new capability called
“mDeposit.” With the free mDeposit
app, Rockland Trust customers can
deposit a check into their account
directly from their mobile device.
The app uses the device’s camera to
scan and deposit the check. mDeposit
is available on the iPhone® and iPod®
Touch, with Blackberry® and Android™
devices expected to be added later
this year.
With its mDeposit Service, Rockland
Trust is one of the first banks in the
country to offer mobile check deposit
services to business customers.
Additional mobile banking services
from Rockland Trust include the ability
for customers to use a variety of mobile
devices to check balances, track account
activity, search transactions and set up
alerts for text or email messages for
changes in their account.
A Rockland Trust mobile banking app
is also available from the Apple, Blackberry, and Android app stores and can
be downloaded for free.
Downtown New
Bedford, Inc. will
be holding its 20th
Annual Spring Social at the New Bedford Art Museum at 608 Pleasant Street
from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday,
April 6, 2011. Executive Director
Diane Arsenault says that “We are very
fortunate this year to welcome our new
neighbor and partner who is sponsoring
this event, D.F. Pray General Contractors. D. F. Pray has recently opened an
office in the downtown and is a name
that is sure to become familiar to us all.”
Tickets for the gala are $50 each, $35
of which is tax deductible, Downtown
New Bedford, Inc. is a non-profit
(501)(C)3 community organization.
Proceeds go toward Downtown New
Bedford, Inc. programs and projects.
Tickets may be purchased from the
DNB office at 105 William Street,
2nd Floor, and from Board Members.
For tickets or information call
508-990-2777 or email
[email protected].
Do you have any good news to share?
Please e-mail your press releases
with photos to
[email protected].
Due to space limitations, we can
not guarantee any articles will be
printed. We do try our best to fit
as much member news in the
Chamber Focus as possible.
7
2011 Home & Garden Show Brings Preview of Spring and New Options for Your Home
The 22nd Annual Greater New Bedford
Home & Garden Show once again
proved to be a huge success. The show
featured 95 exhibitors that provided
goods and services for use in and
around the home, free seminars and
workshops, cooking demonstrations
from some of the area’s hottest chefs,
child safety programs, live broadcasts
by WBSM 1420 and FUN 107 and
much more. With the long and cold
winter, many people were eager to get
out and take a look for ways to improve
their homes and gardens and start their
spring home improvement projects.
Over 2,000 people attended this year’s
show and with the economy starting to
improve, many of them seemed optimistic and ready to get to work on their
Spring projects. People walked away
with business cards, quotes on home
improvement projects, daffodils and an
abundance of ideas on how to improve
their homes and gardens…some even
walked away with adopting a cat from
the local shelter that exhibited at this
year’s show.
We heard many positive comments
from members who exhibited in the
show and from consumers who attended. One attendee commented, “I have
been coming to this show for 18 years
and this is by far the best one yet!”
Matt of SouthCoast Kitchens said
“This year’s Home Show was a great
success. There was a steady flow of
visitors to our booth and a good majority of them seemed ready to make a
purchase. We ended the Home show
with double the leads we were hoping
for. The New Bedford Area Chamber
and Robyn Branco did an outstanding
job promoting the Home Show with
the local news stations and other media
outlets.”
Deborah L. Hynes, Photographer
Deborah L. Hynes, Photographer
Deborah L. Hynes, Photographer
Vocational Technical High School for
hosting the show. A Special thanks to
our sponsors for their support:
“I’m walking away with a slew of ideas Sponsors:
for next year…we learn and grow each
time, but are grateful to have such a
strong exhibitor base that contributes
so much to the show and the community” said Robyn Branco, Events Manager. Please mark your calendars for next
year’s show – March 3 and 4, 2012!
Thank you to all the exhibitors who
participated in this year’s show and
to Greater New Bedford Regional
8
Deborah L. Hynes, Photographer
Deborah L. Hynes, Photographer
2011 SouthCoast Women’s Forum to explore the
“Business of Food”
continued from page 1...
In addition, this popular luncheon will
feature exhibitor tables for womenowned or women-managed businesses
to showcase their services and products.
Because space is limited, registrations
for exhibitor spaces are on a first come,
first served basis. Members interested
in exhibiting are encouraged to reserve
their tables early to ensure a spot.
The SouthCoast Women’s Forum offers an opportunity to network before,
during and after the luncheon program.
Registration and networking will start
at 11:30 a.m. The luncheon program
starts at noon but we encourage guests
to arrive early for networking and to
visit with the exhibitors, sponsors, and
sample some of the local favorite bites!
There are multiple sponsorship
opportunities still available so be sure
to contact the Chamber for more
information. Also, check the website
for a complete list of the speakers
and agenda.
The cost is just $37 for members and
$45 for non-members with tables of
ten also available. Pre-registration is
required. To register, call the
Chamber at 508-999-5231, email
[email protected],
or visit www.newbedfordchamber.com.
For information on sponsorships and
exhibit space, please contact Robyn
Branco at 508-999-5231 ext. 26.
Calendar of Chamber Committee Meetings
Contact the chamber office for more information on any of these committees.
March
Board of Directors - Friday, March 18th - 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
SouthCoast Electric Power Group Steering Committee - Friday, March 18th - 9:00 a.m.
Women’s Forum Committee - Wednesday, March 23rd - 8:30 a.m.
April
Supported Employment Network - Wednesday, April 6th - 9:00 a.m.
Ambassadors Council - Thursday, April 7th - 8:30 a.m.
Government Affairs Committee - Friday, April 8th - 8:30 a.m.
SouthCoast Human Resources Council - Wednesday, April 27th - 8:00 a.m.
Board of Directors - Thursday, April 28th - 8:30 a.m
May
Supported Employment Network - Wednesday, May 4th - 9:00 a.m.
Ambassadors Council - Thursday, May 5th - 8:30 a.m.
Government Affairs Committee - Friday, May 13th - 8:30 a.m.
SouthCoast Human Resources Council - Wednesday, May 25th - 5:00 p.m.
Board of Directors - Thursday, May 26th - 8:30 a.m.
Seminar - Electronically Streamline Your Business
On April 12th at 9:00 a.m. join
Axion Business Technologies for
breakfast and a seminar.
The guest speaker and expert of
electronic document archiving, Jay
Martin of Docuware, will speak and
demonstrate how your company can
increase business efficiency, reduce
costs, improve cash flow and boost
customer service.
This seminar will take place at the
Chamber office, 794 Purchase Street,
New Bedford, MA. Please register for
this event by calling the Chamber,
508-999-5231 or visiting
www.newbedfordchamber.com.
Save the Date • Chamber Invitational Golf Tournament
9/6/2011
9
Hello Cabo Verde Expo
Business and Tourism links Massachusetts and Cape Verde
Few in the United States are aware of
the Cape Verdean culture that produced
legendary singer, Lena Horne; super
band, Tavares; and Harvard Professor,
Rev. Peter J. Gomes. Fewer still know
that there is a country--the Republic of
Cape Verde--that was historically crucial
to the success of the United States
through its immigrants in the whaling
industry.
May 27th is the coming-out party for
thousands of Cape Verdean Americans
to celebrate the culture of the newest
nation to join the World Trade Organization. Both sides of the Atlantic will
meet in New Bedford to feature the
expanding tourist trade and investment
opportunities between the countries.
land’s Daily Telegraph listed it in its top
ten vacation destinations. It is the Port
of Call for 38 cruise ships, and four of
the islands have international airports
a mere six hours from the Eastern
Seaboard.
The planning committee is reaching out
to a regional, national and international
mix of business, civic and political
leaders for sponsorships. Vendors who
register early can choose from 70 booths
to showcase food, music and crafts.
Workshops are planned to explore
marketing opportunities, vacations and
history. University students from across
New England are helping as volunteers. New Bedford and all south coast
businesses are especially encouraged to
seize this opportunity to reach a global
audience to boost business and jobs.
Annual travel to the ten-island tropical
paradise has increased 128% in the last
five years. Europe and the United States For more information on Hello
have taken note of the island’s beaches, Cabo Verde Expo 2011, visit
windswept surf, and luxury hotels; Eng- www.hellocaboverde.com
Member Highlight
Cape Cod Cupola Co.
Brian Chabot
78 State Road, Dartmouth, MA
508-994-2119
www.capecodcupola.com
What is one aspect of Cape Cod
Cupola Co. that Chamber members
might not know about?
Cape Cod Cupola Company strives to
offer and provide the public with quality,
hand crafted cupolas and weathervanes,
focusing on keeping the MADE IN
AMERICA theme alive. Every component that goes into our weathervanes
are made here or somewhere nearby;
the copper balls come from Waterbury
CT, the bronze crossarms come from a
foundry in Somerville and the rods and
weathervane tops are hand made here in
Dartmouth. Other weathervane manufacturers use much cheaper components that
come from China. Also, the production
of our cupolas are very personalized. We
offer 70 different models as “standard”,
but each cupola gets customized to suite
the customers specific needs or wants.
Are there any new or upcoming
projects the company is working on?
10
We have 4 large cupolas being made for
the Soundings Resort in Dennisport.
We are also working on a custom
weathervane of two golden retrievers,
one standing and one lying down on a six
foot arrow for a private residence in Little
Compton. Also coming up soon wiill be
a large Angel weathervane for a church in
Rochester, NY, several sailboats, a small
chicken and even a witch on a broom.
What accomplishments are you most
proud of since working with Cape
Cod Cupola Co.?
I started here in 1977 and never left. I
have a deep passion for weathervanes and
enjoy mostly sharing my skills with the
younger generation of workers that pass
through our shop. We have had many students from Voke work here as their first
jobs. It is great to see, with a little guidance, that they can quickly learn to create
wonderful works of art and develop pride
in their own skills.
Stephanie Jacobsen
Pursues Doctorate,
Parts with Chamber
The New Bedford Area Chamber
of Commerce announces the recent
departure of Stephanie Jacobsen,
Director of Education and Workforce
Development. Stephanie, who worked
at the Chamber for the past two years,
has left to focus on education, both
her own and her students. Currently
Stephanie is pursuing a Doctorate in
Marketing as well as teaching courses
at UMass Dartmouth.
Stephanie worked with the members of
the Greater New Bedford Connecting
Activities Partnership to plan, develop
and implement internship opportunities
for hundreds of area high school seniors through the School to Career initiative. Her commitment to maintaining
strong connections with area employers
and education partners, as well as her
outstanding marketing and communication skills, helped to strengthen the
success of the internship program in
the New Bedford Area.
During her time with the Chamber,
Stephanie ran successful employer
focus groups, created an informative
Industry Focus Group Report, implemented a Career Fair in Wareham
and heightened the awareness of
the Connecting Activities program
throughout the community.
“We will all miss Stephanie, but we
support her decision to focus on her
education. Stephanie’s knowledge and
enthusiasm helped shape Connecting
Activities into an even better program.
We are going to miss her and wish her
well,” said Roy Nascimento, President
& CEO of the New Bedford Area
Chamber of Commerce.
ENTERPRISING MINDS
by Joanne Rego, Supported Employment Network Coordinator
A Salute to an Employee with Top Seniority at IHOP
liked. In fact, he is quite a celebrity
when he walks into the dining area
because everyone seems to know
who he is.”
Lopes, a part time employee at IHOP
has many responsibilities at the restaurant. His duties include dishwashing,
bussing table, and maintenance both
inside the restaurant and in the
parking lot.
Terry Lopes with Supervisor Chris St. Peter and co-worker Steven Sanchez
Terry Lopes has been employed at the
International House of Pancakes in
Dartmouth since their grand opening
five and a half years ago. This gives
Lopes and another employee who receives
supported employment services seniority at the very popular restaurant. While
many businesses struggle with turnover,
employees that are hired through the
supported employment Network
agencies often have a history of
longevity and dedication to the company.
Chris St. Peter, the supervisor at IHOP,
is very impressed with Lopes’ job
performance, “Terry is a great worker.
He is punctual and very reliable. Terry
has a great sense of humor and is well
Wednesday, April 27th • 8:00 a.m.
White’s of Westport • 66 State Road, Westport, MA 02790
Breakfast & Program
Topics: Legal Update Seminar
Pricing: Chamber Members - $22 • Non-Members - $28
Wednesday, May 18th • 5:30 p.m.
Bittersweet Farm • 483 Main Road, Westport, MA 02790
Dinner & Program
Topics: Installation of Officers
Pricing: TBA
Corporate Sponsor:
Lopes says he really enjoys working for
IHOP and thinks their pancakes are
the greatest. Lopes spends some of the
money he earns towards something he
really enjoys. Lopes has a very unique
hobby: he collects bicycles. Right now
he has six bicycles and rotates riding
them every couple of days.
If you have any questions about the
Supported Employment Network or
are interested in hiring a person with
a disability please call Joanne Rego at
the New Bedford Area Chamber of
Commerce at 508-999-5231 ext. 28.
Summer Opportunity
for New Bedford
Area Employers
The Greater New Bedford Connecting
Activities Partnership is looking for
several area employers to provide both
paid and unpaid internship opportunities for technologically skilled high
school students this summer. We are
looking for opportunities in various
computer-related fields, including, but
not limited to, computer or software
engineering, programming, website
development, database management
and service and repair. If you would
like to offer students a valuable work
experience, while utilizing a cost-effective source of valuable technical skills
to benefit your company, please contact
Connecting Activities staff at 508-9995231 ext. 5, for more information.
Call today and play in intricate role in
developing the technological workforce
of tomorrow!
Upcoming Business After Hours
________________________________________________
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
Citizens~Union Savings Bank
1000 Ashley Blvd, New Bedford, MA
Sponsored by: Citizens Union
....................................................................................................................................
Thursday, May 12, 2011
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at
Bristol Community College,
New Bedford Campus
188 Union Street, New Bedford, MA 02740
Sponsored by: Bristol Community College
To register for upcoming Business After Hours, please call Robyn Branco
at 508-999-5231 ext. 26 or email [email protected].
11
Summer Cruise Season Buoyed by Surge in 2011 Cruise Ship Schedule
The Port of New Bedford’s unique
balance of the then and the now is
what makes New Bedford a must-see
stop for cruise ships such as American
Cruise Lines and Blount Small Ship
Adventures. During the highly successful summer 2010 cruise season, over
1500 passengers from these cruise lines
came ashore to experience New Bedford. And both lines are swelling their
number of visits for the 2011 season.
“Our passengers love New Bedford
because it’s an authentic New England seaport,” says Tim Beebe, Vice
President of Marketing for American
Cruise Lines, which has been coming
here since 2000. “They are looking for
a cultural experience and enjoy seeing
the fishing fleet and the fishermen at
work.”
Operations Manager Erika Moore
describes the experience for those
aboard Blount Small Ship Adventures.
“This past summer, most passengers
visited the New Bedford Whaling
Museum and the Whaling National
12
New Bedford Cruise Ship Schedule- 2011
Historical Park. They were escorted
American Cruise Lines
to the site by a Park Ranger on an
Blount Small Ship Adventures
educational walking tour, which made
the experience that more memorable.
Arrival:
Some passengers chose to walk around Vessel:
the city on their own, visiting shops and Independence
Sun. May 22, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
galleries.
Independence
Sat. May 28, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Tim says that New Bedford has been
so “welcoming and accommodating”
that American Cruise Lines is adding
stops and staying longer next summer.
“We’re increasing our fleet and the size
of our ships so we’ll be making 20
stops and bringing more passengers in
2011.”
“Blount has five visits scheduled,” adds
Erika. “We started with four, but our
Islands of New England itinerary is
proving to be one of our most popular
for the summer of 2011, so we just
recently added a fifth!”
Contact the HDC to learn more:
Visit www.portofnewbedford.org;
call 508-961-3000;
email [email protected].
American Star
American Star
American Star
American Glory
American Star
American Glory
American Star
American Glory
American Star
Grande Caribe
American Star
Grande Caribe
American Star
Grande Caribe
American Star
Grande Caribe
American Star
Grande Caribe
American Star
American Star
American Star
American Star
American Star
American Glory
Sun. Jun. 19, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Jun. 25, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Jul. 2, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Mon. Jul. 4, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Jul. 9, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Mon. Jul. 11, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Jul. 16, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Mon. Jul. 18, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Jul. 23, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. July 30, 2011, 8:00 a.m. Sat. Jul. 30, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Aug 6, 2011, 8:00 am
Sat. Aug. 6, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. August 13, 2011, 8:00 am Sat. Aug. 13, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. August 20, 2011, 8:00 am Sat. Aug. 20, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Aug. 27, 2011, 8:00 am Sat. Aug. 27, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Sep. 3, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Sep. 10, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Sep. 17, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Sat. Sep. 24, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Mon. Sep. 26, 2011, 9:00 p.m.
Departure:
Tue. May 24, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. May 30, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Tue. Jun. 21, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Jun. 27, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Jul. 4, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Wed. Jul. 6, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Jul. 11, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Wed. Jul. 13, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Jul. 18, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Wed. Jul. 20, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Jul. 25, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Sat. July 30, 2011, 1:30 p.m.
Mon. Aug. 1, 2011, 3:00 a.m..
Sat. Aug. 6, 2011, 1:30 pm
Mon. Aug. 8, 2011, 3:00 a.m
Sat. August 13, 2011, 1:30 pm
Mon. Aug. 15, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Sat. August 20, 2011, 1:30 p.m.
Mon. Aug. 22, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Sat. August 27, 2011, 1:30 p.m.
Mon. Aug. 29, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Sep. 5, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Sep. 12, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Sep. 19, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Mon. Sep. 26, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Wed. Sep. 28, 2011, 3:00 a.m.
Chamber Contracts With BIGGS-PARTNERS &
Dorothy C. Botelho, IOM of New Bedford Area
YOU COMMUNICATIONS to Increase Memberships Chamber of Commerce Graduates from Institute for
Organization Management
The New Bedford Area Chamber of
Commerce is pleased to announce that
it has contracted with David Biggs and
his firm, BIGGS-PARTNERS & YOU
COMMUNICATIONS, to handle new
member recruitment.
David’s a familiar name and face to
many Chamber members. Since joining
the Chamber in 2008 he has become
very active in the organization. He has
been a member of both the Ambassadors Council and Government
Affairs Committee. He chaired the
Ambassadors in 2010 and was the top
recruiter during the last two membership campaigns. He also volunteers as
the host of the Chamber’s weekly radio
program, SouthCoast Business Update,
on WBSM 1420 AM every Monday at
1:00 p.m.
“It is a great honor and pleasure to
work with the professional staff of our
Chamber and its volunteers towards
mutual goals beneficial to all concerned.
Even though I am also a Realtor with
Jack Conway in New Bedford, and
A Leadership Training Program Produced
by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce
David Biggs is pictured with fellow Chamber member
Cynthia Gilchrest of Common Sense Environmental,
Inc. - WBE/DBE
I vigorously conduct my Marketing Communications business, I am
delighted to have the formal role of
recruiting new members for our Chamber, which is now the largest south of
Boston! We will thrive in the Southcoast, and I am committed to doing
all I can to maintain its success,” Biggs
commented.
If you know of any businesses that
would benefit from being a member
of the Chamber, please contact
David Biggs with the information,
508-951-8284.
Dorothy C. Botelho, IOM, Director of
Operations and Finance of the New
Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce,
Inc., has received the designation of
IOM (Institute for Organization Management) from the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce. This professional development program of the U.S. Chamber is
a comprehensive course of study consisting of four annual sessions focusing
on professional growth and development Since 1921, Institute has attracted
for association, Chamber and other
association and Chamber professionals
nonprofit professionals.
from across the country to its five
university sites.
“Institute graduates are recognized
across the country as leaders in their
Graduates of Institute receive the
communities,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM recognition, signifying compleIOM, CAE, the U.S. Chamber’s vice
tion of 96 hours of course instruction
president of Institute for Organization in nonprofit management. In addition,
Management. “These individuals have
participants can earn points toward the
the knowledge, skills and dedication to Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) or
achieve professional and organizational Certified Association Executive (CAE)
success in the dynamic association and certifications. Nearly 1,000 individuals
Chamber industries.”
attend Institute annually.
13
Welcome New Members
Village Signs
93C Marion Road
Mattapoisett, MA 02739
Phone: 508-758-2853
Fax: 508-758-2854
[email protected]
We are a local full service sign shop celebrating
our 30th year in business. Our services include
truck lettering, boat lettering, trade show graphics
and signage of all kids.
Coastal Community Capital
5 Shootflying Hill Road
Centerville, MA 02632
Phone: 508-362-3775
Fax: 508-362-3698
[email protected]
www.coastalcommunitycapital.org
Consolidated Packaging
Corporation
28 Patterson Brook Road
W. Wareham, MA 02576
Phone: 508-295-2805
[email protected]
http://conpackcorp.com
Serlingpa Meditation Center
512 Pleasant Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Billing Address: 512 Pleasant Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: 508-979-8277
[email protected]
www.meditationinmass.org
Serlingpa Meditation Center’s mission is to help
others cultivate inner peace through meditation.
It is not necessary to be Buddhist to benefit from
Buddha’s teachings on love, compassion and
wisdom; everyone has the potential to benefit their
families, friends and communities by developing a
more peaceful state of mind.
Athena Legacy Solutions, LLC
401 Wampanoag Trail
Ste 100
East Providence, RI 02915
Phone: 401-432-8802
Fax: 401-223-4833
[email protected]
www.janetgoulart.com
AFLAC
241 Reed Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: 508-985-8783
A Package Delivery Service
357 Bedford Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: 508-997-8525
Fax: 508-997-8526
[email protected]
14
Whaling City Environmental
222 Melville Blvd.
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: 508-524-0171
Fax: 508-999-2629
[email protected]
www.whalingcityenvironmental.com
Cardoza’s Wine and Spirits
154A Faunce Corner Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Phone: 508-961-1400
Fax: 508-994-4298
[email protected]
www.cardozas.com
Certified Rescue Courses, LLC
47 Lakewood Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Phone: 508-992-0930
Fax: 508-992-0930
[email protected]
www.certifiedrescuecourses.com
NeuEon Inc.
20 Academy Lane
Falmouth, MA 02540
Local Phone: 877-273-9200
Fax: 877-273-9200
[email protected]
www.neueon.comgesignsinc.com
Southeastern Massachusetts
Agricultural Partnership
P. O. Box 569
East Wareham, MA 02538
Phone: 508-295-2212 ext 50
[email protected]
www.semaponline.org
Oracle Production
56 North Water St.
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: 8508-369-3942
[email protected]
www.localoracle.com
Oracle Productions is a full service business solutions company. Specializing in graphic design, web
design and development, advertising, marketing,
social networking and event planning.
Refer a member today!
If you know of a company
that would benefit from
joining the Chamber, please
call 508-999-5231 or email
[email protected].
Education Training Opportunities Program
A New Program to Help Connect the Unemployed with Local Companies
The University of Massachusetts
Dartmouth, Professional and Continuing
Education (PCE) department has
developed a program that would fit
within the current state guidelines, enabling individuals to continue to receive
their needed benefits, while seeking
training and workplace experience.
It is important to not only address the
issues of education attainment and
unemployment, but also ensure that
those who actively seeking to return to
the workforce, do not get penalized in
the process.
The PCE department has developed
a program to combat these issues,
focused on the individual who is
currently unemployed. This program
will look to increase the education
and skills of those individuals who
are currently seeking employment.
The Education Training Opportunities Program (ETOP) will provide
basic skills and training, hands on work
experience and will be provided in a
manner consistent with state rules and
regulations. It also allows the individual
in training the opportunity to continue
to receive their unemployment benefits.
In summary:
The program will offer the participant
the following opportunities:
• Gain work related Experience
(Internship/job shadow)
• Maintain unemployment insurance
benefits
• Possibly earn small stipend (without
going over 1/3 limit to avoid penalty)
• Have the opportunity for career
exploration (stay in current field or
make a career change)
• Build a resume with new experience
• Obtain a greater chance of returning
to the workforce
• Improve and or refresh professional
skills sets
• Receive a certificate of attendance
based on total classroom hours of
instruction in the form of Continuing
Education Credits (CEUs)
The program will offer the employers
the following opportunities:
• Receive $500 per participant for set
up and overhead cost
• Have the ability to pre-screen
a prospective candidate, in order to
increase value
• Have the opportunity to increase
workforce with little to no
recruitment cost
For more information on this program,
please contact Dennis Paquette at
508-910-9067 or [email protected].
State of the City Luncheon - Update From the Mayor
continued from page 1...
person, $280 per table of 10, or $325
for a Signed Corporate Table which
includes the company logo on a tabletop sign. Advanced reservations are
required by Thursday, March 17th.
For more information or to reserve
your seat or table, visit the Chamber
website at www.newbedfordchamber.com
or call the Chamber office,
508-999-5231.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Podcasts
The U.S. Small Business Administration
(SBA) is a great resource for small businesses. At sba.gov, you can find many
articles on many useful topics. The SBA
also has podcasts available for download.
SBA podcasts offer expert insight and
guidance about running your business.
Managing a Business podcasts offer
advice on topics ranging from marketing
to sales, human resources, and the
technology that you employ to keep
your business functioning smoothly.
To find these free podcasts, visit
www.sba.gov and in the search box,
enter podcasts.
Have you seen us on Facebook & Twitter?
Like the New Bedford Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook, follow us on Twitter and connect with us
on LinkedIn. Stay informed on upcoming events and news. Visit www.newbedfordchamber.com for direct links.
Member - to - Member Discount Program
Take advantage of these great discounts offered by your fellow Chamber members by showing your company ID card or business card. It’s that simple!
Aaron Pools & Spas Inc.
595 State Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-996-3320
Free preferred customer discount card good for
15% off all chemicals, free curbside delivery on spas.
Avis-Rent-A Car
New Bedford Regional Airport
1569 Airport Road
New Bedford MA 02745
508-999-9602
Additional 10% off for Chamber members
Brandon Woods Adult Day Health
567 Dartmouth Street
Dartmouth, MA 02748
508-997-3956
$5/day savings if person attends program 5-6
days/week or one free take home meal/week if person
attends 3 or more days/week. New clients only.
The Castelo Group
1815 Acushnet Avenue
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-995-6291
1 year home warranty
Chiropractic USA at Faunce Corner
145 Faunce Corner Road #2
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-999-4045
Set Your Healing Power Free! Full spine
& nervous system evaluation: consultation,
exam & x-rays for just $35 to members.
Extra Space Storage
3131 Acushnet Avenue
New Bedford, MA 02745
508-998-2494
One month Free Storage
Eye Health Vision Centers
51 State Road
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-994-1400
1. Laser Vision Correction: $500 off normal fee or
$100 less than currently advertised special
2. Hearing Aids: 35% to 65% off MSRP
3. Contact Lenses: 20% off hard; 10% off soft
4. Complete pair eyeglasses starting at $89.00 or
30% off most frames in the store
Fileguard Records Management and
Storage Corporation
7 Industrial Drive
Mattapoisett, MA 02747
508-758-2112 • www.fileguardonline.com
Free 30 day trial of services, please contact
Matt Murphy, [email protected]
Fine Finish Contracting, Inc.
15 Sleepy Hollow Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-994-3331
10% off labor costs for any job we
preform with a $500 minimum per project.
folia
An Invitation & Stationery Boutique
by Wendy Joblon
354 Elm Street
Dartmouth, MA 02748
508-992-2950
10-20% off on all invitations & stationery
The Fox Center for Aesthetic Surgery &
MEDI SPA
Richard S. Fox, M.D., P.C.
300A Faunce Corner Road, Suite 202
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-995-2226 • www.thefoxcenter.com
10% discount on Restylane & Perlane treatments
- $100 off Cutera Pearl Laser treatment - 10%
discount off Therapeutic Message or Signature
Facial - Free Skin Analysis
Greater NB Regional Voc-Tech
Adult Education
1121 Ashley Boulevard
New Bedford, MA 02745
508-998-3321 • [email protected]
$10 off weekly classes, $5 off Saturday and
seminar classes. Winter and spring sessions.
Hampton Inn New Bedford-Fairhaven
1 Hampton Way
Fairhaven, MA
508-990-8500
www.newbedfordfairhaven.hamptoninn.com
20% off our rack rate for overnight stays, based
upon availability & $25 off meeting room rentals.
Healthtrax at the Southcoast Wellness Center
250 Faunce Corner Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-999-2171
2 week complimentary “first time” membership
to local residents 18+ years
High Point Real Property Appraisers
138 Hatch Street
New Bedford, MA 02742
508-993-5534
Fax: 508-999-9881
10% off your next residential Real Estate
Appraisal
Hodgson, Pratt & Associates, P.C.
72 North Water Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-990-2600 • [email protected]
Free 1-hour consultation for new clients
Howland Place Fitness Center
651 Orchard Street
New Bedford, MA 02744
508-994-2100
[email protected]
www.howlandplacefitnesscenter.com
Join for the year for $249 (savings $50)
Corporate Discounts Available!
Interstate All Battery Center
154G Faunce Corner Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
1-866-299-8019/508-991-8028
[email protected]
10% discount off all products.
Mirasol’s Cafe
439 State Road
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-996-2323 • [email protected]
www.mirasolscafe.com
10% discount on all private events held at the cafe,
up to 75 guests. Plus, the one-day liquor permit
fee will be waived. Contact Mirasol’s Cafe for full
details. Also, send the CHiPPiMobile to your best
clients or your staff as a Thank You!!! The
CHiPPiMobile fees will be waived.
Nery Corporation
700 Pleasant Street, Suite 330
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-990-9800
[email protected]
Free 1 hour consultation for Business Owners
contemplating selling their company.
Northwestern Mutual Financial Network
12 Ventura Drive
North Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-996-5642 ext. 3
[email protected]
www.nmfn.com/robertcoykendall
Free review of your life insurance or
retirement plan.
Pateakos & Poulin
Attorneys at Law
324 Union Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-985-9535
www.pateakosandpoulin.com
$100 off any real estate closing.
Paul & Dixon Insurance
388 County Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-996-8593
[email protected]
Free complete analysis of your business
or personal insurance program.
Includes alternative quotes.
Platinum Group Realty, Inc.
106 State Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-993-1110
[email protected]
Offering ~ 1 year home warranty
Sellers ~ improve your home’s marketability
Buyers ~ help eliminate worries
Paychex, Inc.
200 Foxborough Boulevard
Foxborough, MA 02035
508-698-9600
15% off of payroll processing
(offer valid to new customers only)
Southeastern Insurance Agency
439 State Road
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-997-6061 • www.southeasternins.com
Free Policy Review for Personal & Business
Insurance. Multi Policy discounts are also available.
The Sylvia Group of Insurance
Agencies
500 Faunce Corner Road
Building 100, Suite 120
Dartmouth, MA 02747
508-995-4553 • www.sylviainsurance.com
Insurance program review at no cost
Surprenant & Beneski, P.C.
35 Arnold Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-994-5200 • nbelderlaw.com
Free 1-hour consultation for new clients
Technobuffs, Inc.
651 Orchard Street
New Bedford, MA 02744
508-990-9788
Free onsite consultation & analysis
of your computer & networking needs
Thompson Farland, Inc.
Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors
30 N. Water Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
508-717-3479
www.ThompsonFarland.com
[email protected]
10% off any engineering or land surveying service
for new clients
Verizon Wireless/Wireless Zone
28 Fairhaven Commons Way
Fairhaven, MA 02719
508-984-8829 • www.wirelesszone.com/fairhaven
Free car charger with purchase of any phone!
Anne Whiting Real Estate
253 Elm Street
Dartmouth, MA 02748
508-999-1010 • [email protected]
Buyers-1 Year Home Warranty,
Sellers-Free Deed & Prehome Inspection
Your Theatre
136 Rivet Street
New Bedford, MA 02744
508-993-0772
$2 off regular ticket price.
Mallard Printing
657 Quarry Street
Fall River, MA 02723
508-675-5733
15% discount on all services.
MetLife Home Loans,
a Division of MetLife Bank, N.A.
28 County Way
Dartmouth, MA
508-997-9381 • [email protected]
$200 off closing costs for a reverse mortgage.
Merrill Lynch
Eugene G. Loneran, CFP, CRPC
One Citizens Plaza, Suite 1000
Providence, RI 02903
401-863-8624
Free Retirement Plan Review
15
Recent Chamber Business After Hours
It’s Easy to Register for any event!
508-999-5231
[email protected]
www.newbedfordchamber.com
For more photos of recent events, visit
our Facebook page. A direct link can be
found at www.newbedfordchamber.com.
Kathi Newman of Hawthorne Country Club and Mark
Abdelnour of Chase Canopy Co. at the January BAH.
Richard Romero of Mirasols, Betsy Allen and Alexia
Orphanides of the New Bedford Career Center.
Kathy Pendergast of Mallard Printing and Maryanne
Staab joined us at the Country Club of New Bedford for
Networking in January.
For news and event updates, follow us
on Twitter.
http://twitter.com/newbedfordarea
New Bedford Area
Chamber of Commerce
Karlissa Delisle and Donna DeRose of HallKeen
Management are pictured with Christine Machado
of Welby Park Estates Apartments.
Jon Dejesus, Curtis Boardman and Kira Carlson of
AT&T were a few of the over 100 attendees who
networked at the newly renovated Regency.
Diane Arsanault, Executive Director of Downtown
New Bedford Inc. is pictured with Andrew Springer of
Bristol County Savings Bank.
794 Purchase Street
P.O. Box 8827
New Bedford, MA 02742
New Bedford Chamber Calendar - Upcoming Events
State of the City
Luncheon
Thursday, March 24th at
Cafe Funchal
123 Church Street
New Bedford, MA 02745
12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
registration 11:45 a.m.
$28 per person
$280 per table of 10
$325 per signed corporate
table of 10
Sponsored by:
Webster Bank
Electronically
Streamline
Your Business
Tuesday, April 12th at
the New Bedford Area
Chamber of Office
794 Purchase Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
9:00 a.m.
Members and
Non-Members - Free
Sponsored by:
Axion Business
Technologies
Business After
Hours
Wednesday, April 13th
at Citizens~Union
Savings Bank
SouthCoast
SouthCoast
Human Resources Legislative
Council Meeting
Luncheon
Wednesday, April 27th at the
White’s of Westport
Thursday, April 28th at
Hawthorne Country Club
100 Ashley Blvd.
New Bedford, MA 02745
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
66 State Road
Westport, MA 02790
8:00 a.m.
107 South Main Street
Acushnet, MA 02743
12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Members - Free
Non-Members - $15
Members - $22
Non-Members - $28
Members - $35
Non-Members - $45
Sponsored by:
Citizens~Union
Savings Bank
Sponsor:
Foley & Foley
Sponsored by:
Southern Mass Credit
Union & Southcoast
Hospitals Group
SouthCoast
Women’s Forum
Business After
Hours
Thursday, May 19th
at Hawthorne Country
Club
Thursday, May 12th at
Bristol Community College Wednesday, May 18th at
Bittersweet Farm
New Bedford Campus
1121 Ashley Boulevard
New Bedford, MA
11:30 a.m. registration
noon - 2:00 p.m. Lunch &
Program
188 Union Street
New Bedford, MA 02740
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
483 Main Road
Westport, MA 02790
5:00 p.m.
Members - Free
Non-Members - $15
Pricing: TBA
Members - $37
Non-Members - $45
Sponsored by:
Bristol Community
College
SouthCoast
Human Resources
Council Meeting
Sponsor:
Foley & Foley