Fall River Chamber of Commerce

BUSINESS NEWS
The Official Publication of the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc.
August 2016 Edition
www.fallriverchamber.com
2016
Co- Title Sponsors
CORNER OFFICE: Benefits of Chamber Health Insurance Coop
By: Robert A. Mellion, Esq.
President & CEO of the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry
The unintended impacts and rising costs
associated with the
Affordable Care Act
(ACA) are deeply concerning to many small
businesses in Massachusetts. Businesses
on Main Street are now
paying far more for
health care insurance
each year as premium
rates keep rising at a
faster clip. This year
has been particularly
bad with some premiums soaring by double
digit rates. The jumps
in premiums come as
insurers pass on the
costs of rising drug
prices, administrative
costs and the cost of
expanding coverage
under the ACA.
Harvard Pilgrim has
raised premiums on
small businesses in
Massachusetts 8.7
percent for its plans
in 2016. Fallon’s rates
are up 16.5 percent,
and at Neighborhood
Health, premiums rose
9.4 percent in 2016.
United HealthCare also
raised rates 13 percent
in 2016. Tufts Health
Plan rose 6.8 percent
in 2016, and Blue
Cross raised its rates
in Massachusetts for
small businesses by 5
percent. These are hits
that small businesses
cannot continue to
absorb.
Recognizing that the
cost of health care
insurance was a top
concern for small
businesses, the Fall
River Area Chamber of Commerce &
Industry worked within
framework of the
Massachusetts Association of Chamber of
Commerce Executives
(MACCE) to establish
the Chamber Health
Insurance Coop.
Through the Chamber
Health Insurance Coop
small businesses of
less than 50 employees
can save money on
health insurance from
a handful of insurers
that have partnered
with participating
chambers to discount
several of their plans.
In addition to offer-
ing savings on health
insurance plans, the
Chamber Health Insurance Coop provides
wellness programs to
help employees live a
healthier lifestyle that
in turn may contain
premium costs. Qualifying businesses that
are members in good
standing of a participating association,
such as the Fall River
Area Chamber of
Commerce can enroll
within the Chamber
Health Insurance
Coop.
The Chamber Health
Insurance Coop was
created in 2010 to help
chamber member businesses save money on
health insurance. Over
the past several years
efforts to grow and
sustain the Chamber
Health Insurance Coop
have been intentionally
stymied by preemptive
ACA requirements on
state insurance rating
factors. It is ironic that
Massachusetts small
businesses have been
harmed through higher
premium costs that
are a consequence of
the ACA, because the
ACA was modeled on
the Commonwealth’s
insurance system. That
is why the Chamber
along with MACCE,
the Associated Industries of Massachusetts
and the Massachusetts
Retailors Association
2016 Silver Sponsors
2016
Media Sponsors
the SouthCoast’s Major League Station
WSAR.com
1480 AM
2016 Gold Sponsors
Business News
Chamber media outreach
2016 OFFICERS & EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE:
EST.
1911
Business News:
Monthly Publication, reaches 4,000+ per month
Business Connection:
Monthly Herald News Publication, reaches 45,000+ per month
BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
Voice of Business:
Weekly radio show, Wednesdays from 1:00 - 2:00 p.m., reaches 25,000 per month (1480 WSAR)
World of Business:
Weekly radio show, Thursdays from 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (1400 WHTB)
Workforce Connection:
Chamber’s official TV show, in partnership with Bristol Community College. Airs monthly on FRC Media,
Channel 95, Fridays at 5:30 p.m.
Chamber Website:
www.fallriverchamber.com. Over 4,000 hits per month
Chamber Social Media Outlets:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/frchamber
Twitter: www.twitter.com/fallriverchamber
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/561650
Instagram: www.instagram.com/frareachamber
Tumblr: www.fallriverareachamber.tumblr.com
business news
MANAGING EDITOR:
Crystal Stone, Communications Manager
ADVERTISING MANAGER:
Kimberly Coroa Moniz, Vice President
The “Business News” is published monthly by the Fall
River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The opinions featured in this publication do not necessarily reflect
the views of the Chamber staff, nor of the members of
the Chamber Board of Directors.
This newspaper is printed at the Standard Times. All
letters to the editorial page must be signed and include a
phone number. All submissions are welcome and should
be sent via email to communicaitons@fallriverchamber.
com
Term Ending in 2016
Steve Canessa, SouthCoast Health Systems
Catherine Dillon, BankFive
Charlie Fellows, LaFrance Hospitality Company
Scott O’Brien, O’Brien’s Plumbling & Heating, Inc.
Doug Rodrigues, CPA, DE Rodrigues & Company
Matthew Schondek, Fall River Municipal Credit Union
Matt Zenni, Liberty Utilities
Term Ending in 2017
Jo Ann Bentley, Jo Ann Bentley- Architect
LoriAnn Taylor Branco, Center for Sight
Nick Christ, BayCoast Bank
Rebecca Collins, Collins Construction
Dr. Angappa Gunasekaran, Ph.D., Charlton College of Business at University
of MassachusettsMASS Dartmouth
Michael Lund, Borden Light Marina
Carl Sawejko, Sawejko Communications
Term Ending 2018
Carmen Aguilar, Bristol Community College
Linda Baker, Baker Sign Works
Dan Balboni, Complete Recycling Solutions, LLC
Rick Medeiros, Pawtucket Red Sox
Anthony Medeiros, Mechanics Cooperative Bank
Marty Montleon, Diman Regional Vocational Technical High School
Jason Rua, RDA Insurance
Tourism and Visitor Information Center sponsored by
PUBLISHER:
Robert A Mellion, Esq., President and CEO
Chair of the Board: Carl Garcia, Carl’s Collision Center, Inc
Chair Elect: Brian LeComte, Gold Medal Bakery
First Vice Chair: Curtis Nelson, Nelson Insurance & Financial Services
Second Vice Chair: Bill Perkins, People Incorporated
Treasurer: Roger Cabral, Bristol County Savings Bank
Clerk: Monte Ferris, Quality Inn Somerset & Venus de Milo
Immediate Past Chair: Craig A. Jesiolowski, St. Anne’s Hospital
President and CEO & General Counsel: Robert A. Mellion, Esq.
Melinda Ailes, Senior Business Advisor
Clifford Robbins, Senior Business Advisor
Daniel Lilly, Government Sales Advisor
Anne Fenton, Client Services Coordinator
Alison Moriarty, Administrative Assistant
Jill Beresford, Senior Business Advisor
Nancy Lowd, Senior Business Advisor
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS:
Frank Marchione, President, FROED
Kenneth Fiola Jr., Esq., Executive Vice President, FROED
CHAMBER STAFF:
Robert A. Mellion, Esq., President, CEO & General Counsel
Kimberly Coroa Moniz, Vice President
Courtney Krystman, Manager of Operations & Finance
Crystal Stone, Communications Manager
The Massachusetts Small Business Center (MSBDC) Network provides
on-to-one free comprehensive and confidential services focusing on,
business growth and strategies, financing and loan assistance as well
as strategic, marketing and operational analysis. In addition, low cost
educational training programs are offered across the state targeted to the
needs of small business.
Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network
200 Pocasset Street, Fall River, MA 02721
Phone: (508) 673-9783
www.msbdc.org
Fax: (508) 674-1929
www.facebook.com/msbdc
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry is to be the
primary business and community information source for its members and the public to
provide networking opportunities for its members; and serve as an advocate, on behalf of
its members, at the local, state and federal government levels.
Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Inc.
200 Pocasset Street, Fall River, MA 02721
Phone: (508) 676-8226 Fax: (508) 675-5932
BUSINESS NEWS
(CONTINUED, from cover page)
advocated for the Baker Administration to intervene by securing a waiver for Massachusetts
from the rating requirements of the ACA that prohibit associations from banding together
for the purpose of reducing premium costs for their members.
In recognizing that these massive insurance rate hikes were hurting small businesses across
the state, Governor Baker secured a one-year waiver from the U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services (HHS). The waiver authorizes the Commonwealth to maintain the use of its
existing rating factors that would otherwise have been prohibited by the ACA. The waiver secured by Governor Baker is modest relief. It is also short lived as it will be phased out entirely
on January 1, 2018.
The Chamber and its association partners are advocating for a longer or more permanent
waiver that allows for the continuation of the Chamber Health Insurance Coop. In the
meantime, please consider taking advantage of this Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce
member benefit. To learn more about saving money on your company’s health insurance visit
www.ChamberHealthCoop.com. you can also email the Chamber Health Insurance Coop at
[email protected].
Additionally, the Chamber maintains a list of knowledgeable insurance professionals who can
help a company navigate the many changes and challenges impacting health insurance coverage. Call the Chamber today at 508-676-8226 and ask for a health insurance broker referral.
Respectfully,
AUGUST 2016 CALENDAR
All meetings take place at the Chamber unless otherwise noted.
8/10 WED...........................................................Ambassador’s Meeting
12:00 p.m., Location TBD
8/11 THUR................................................Events Committee Meeting
8:30 a.m.
8/12 FRI...............................................Education Committee Meeting
11:30 a.m.
8/15 MON.................Membership Committee Neighborhood Walk
12:00 p.m. - 2:00
BK’s Tavern
320 Airport Road, Fall River, MA
8/29 MON.............................................Executive Committee Meeting
11:30 a.m.
8/22 MON................................................Cultural Committee Meeting
2:00 p.m.
8/31 WED..........................................................Business After Hours
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Sponsored by BayCoast Bank
8/31 WED.........................................................................Board Meeting
11:45 a.m.
Robert A. Mellion, Esq.
President and CEO
Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Business After Hours
Wednesday, August 24, 2016
5:00 – 7:00 pm
Location: BayCoast Bank
330 Swansea Mall Drive, Swansea, MA
Sponsored by:
Kindly RSVP by contacting a
chamber staff member at (508) 676-8226.
IN THIS ISSUE
Education............................................Page 13
Chamber News..................................Page 15
Benefits of Membership..................Page 16
Multi-Cultural Section.....................Page 20
Member Discount List.....................Page 22
and much more!
3
Lt. Governor Karyn Polito visits the Children’s Advocacy Center of Bristol Country
On Thursday, July 14th, Lt. Governor
Karyn Polito visited the Children’s
Advocacy Center (CAC) of Bristol
County to tour the center and meet
with Michelle Loranger, Executive
Director of the CAC, about sexual and physical abuse services to
the children and families of Bristol
County.
“... I am thrilled to be able to provide
the Lt. Governor important information about the CAC’s services to children and families who are impacted
by sexual abuse, physical abuse and
those that have witnessed violence”
victims. While the Lt. Governor is
familiar with the CAC service delivery model, she learn ed more about
the specific of the Bristol County
center. The CAC is addressing the
issues of child sexual abuse not only
with direct services but with the
implementation of their Education &
Outreach and Mental Health capacity
initiatives.
“The Children’s Advocacy Center has
been a leader in the Commonwealth
on these important issues, and I am
grateful for the work that CAC of
Bristol County has been doing to
ensure the safety and security of
Lt. Polito, Chair of the Governor’s residents of Massachusetts ,” said
Council to Address Sexual and Lieutenant Governor Karyn Polito,
Domestic Violence has shown signif- chair of the Governor’s Council
icant interest in the state wide service on Sexual Assault and Domestic
delivery system that addresses sexual Violence. “Our administration is
and domestic violence services to committed to working together
with law enforcement, advocates,
healthcare providers, and survivors
to provide education and support to
prevent sexual assault and domestic
violence.
The Children’s Advocacy Center of
Bristol County is a private, 501c(3)
non-profit agency that provides
direct and support services to children and adults with intellectual disabilities who have been victims of
The Children’s Advocacy Center sexual abuse, severe physical abuse
has experienced a 23% increase (or or witness to violence.
698 total cases served) in need for
services in the past year alone and For more information contact
a 127% increase since its inception M ichelle Loranger, Execut ive
in 2007.
Di rector at 508 - 674 - 6111 or
[email protected].
The CAC Executive Director,
Michelle Loranger, was appointed
to the Governor’s Council for Sexual
and Domestic violence and will also
serve as co-chair of a work group
under the Council focused on statewide evaluation and implementation
of practice and protocols for children impacted by commercial sexual
exploitation (CSEC).
American Heart Association/ American Stroke Association Award Recognizes Saint Anne’s
Hospital with “Get With The Guidelines-Stroke” Gold Quality Achievement Award
success in ensuring stroke patients receive the most
appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest
scientific evidence.
According to the American Heart Association/
American Stroke Association, stroke is the No. 5
cause of death and a leading cause of adult disability
in the United States. On average, someone in the U.S.
suffers a stroke every 40 seconds, someone dies of a
stroke every four minutes, and nearly 800,000 people
suffer a new or recurrent stroke each year.
American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Award recognizes Saint Anne’s Hospital with
“Get With The Guidelines-Stroke” Gold Quality
Achievement Award
Fall River, Mass. – Saint Anne’s Hospital has received
the American Heart Association/American Stroke
Association’s “Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke”
Gold Quality Achievement Award.
4
The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment and
To receive the Gold Quality Achievement Award,
hospitals must achieve 85 percent or higher adherence to all Get With The Guidelines-Stroke
achievement indicators for two or more consecutive 12-month periods. Quality measures focus on
appropriate use of guideline-based care for stroke
patients, including aggressive use of medications
such as clot-busting and anti-clotting drugs, blood
thinners and cholesterol-reducing drugs, preventive
action for deep vein thrombosis, and smoking cessation counseling.
“The American Heart Association and American
Stroke Association recognize Saint Anne’s for its
commitment to stroke care,” said Paul Heidenreich, M.D., M.S., national chairman of the Get With
The Guidelines Steering Committee and Professor
of Medicine at Stanford University. “Research has
shown there are benefits to patients who are treated
at hospitals that have adopted the Get With The
Guidelines program.”
Get With The Guidelines®-S puts the expertise
of the American Heart Association and American
Stroke Association to work for hospitals nationwide,
helping hospital care teams ensure the care provided
to patients is aligned with the latest research-based
guidelines. Developed with the goal to save lives and
improve recovery time, Get With The Guidelines®-S
has impacted more than 3 million patients since 2003.
About Saint Anne’s Hospital
Founded by the Dominican Sisters of the Presentation in 1906, Saint Anne’s Hospital in Fall River, Massachusetts, is a full-service, acute care Catholic hospital with 185 beds and satellite locations in Attleboro,
Swansea, Dartmouth, New Bedford, and Stoughton,
Massachusetts. The hospital provides nationally
recognized patient- and family-centered inpatient and
outpatient clinical services to patients from surrounding Massachusetts and Rhode Island communities. In
addition to comprehensive diagnostic, medical, surgical, and emergency services, key services include the
Joint Commission-certified Center for Orthopedic
Excellence, with locations in Fall River, Dartmouth
and Attleboro; Saint Anne’s Hospital Regional Cancer Center in Fall River and Dartmouth; the Center
for Pain Management in Swansea and Dartmouth;
and geriatric psychiatry services at locations in Fall
River and Stoughton.
Bristol County Savings Bank Awards $50,000 Grant to Bishop Connolly High School
in its support and validation of our mission and vision to offer the
very best in secondary education to the young men and women in the
communities we jointly serve.”
Bristol County Savings Bank is an active supporter in the communities in which it serves. Bristol County Savings Charitable Foundation was established in 1996 as part of the Bank’s 150th Anniversary
celebration. Its purpose is to fund needs that contribute to the economic and the social well-being of the people and institutions located
in the greater Attleboro/Taunton Region, the greater New Bedford/
Dartmouth Region, the Fall River Region and the Pawtucket, Rhode
Island Region, with particular emphasis in the areas of education
and literacy, economic development and housing for the low- to
moderate-income population. Since the Foundation began, close to
$16 million has been committed to hundreds of different non-profit
organizations. In 2015, the Foundation awarded $1.7 million to various 501©(3) organizations.
Bristol County Savings Bank Background Information:
Pictured (left to right) are: Joan Medeiros, Vice President - Commercial Lending, BCSB; Patrick Murray, President & CEO, BCSB and President, BCSCF; Christopher Myron, President/Principal, Bishop
Connolly High School; Michele Roberts, Executive Vice President & Community Relations Officer,
BCSB and Clerk, BCSCF.
Bristol County Savings Bank (BCSB), through its charitable founda
tion, recently announced a $50,000 grant to Bishop Connolly High
School in Fall River, Massachusetts in support of its capital campaign,
“The Advancement Initiative for Bishop Connolly High School”.
The grant will be awarded in the amount of $10,000 each year over
the next five years. Since 2007, the Bristol County Savings Charitable
Foundation has donated more than $3.8 million to 501©(3) organizations in the Southcoast.
“More than half the Foundation’s grants each year go towards supporting education and literacy in the communities the Bank serves so
directing funds for the Advancement Initiative was a natural fit as we
understand the vital role Bishop Connolly plays in the education of
our young people and the future of the greater Fall River and Rhode
Island areas,” said Patrick J. Murray, Jr., President & CEO of Bristol
County Savings Bank and President of the Bristol County Savings
Charitable Foundation.
Bristol County Savings Bank, founded in 1846, is a full-service financial institution offering commercial lending, personal and business banking, and mortgage services. The Bank’s Financial Advisory
Services division has successfully assisted businesses, individuals and
non-profits with the management of their assets since 1989. In addition, the Bank also offers quality property and casualty insurance options for its customers through its majority-owned insurance partner,
FBinsure.
The Bank’s steady growth and expansion has resulted in $1.8 billion
in assets and over 400 employees in southeastern Massachusetts and
Rhode Island. The key words at Bristol County Savings Bank are:
“Commitment, Stability, and Community,” values that are combined
with state-of-the-art technology to meet the needs of its customers.
A dedicated local community bank for over 170 years, Bristol County
Savings Bank is actively involved in giving back to all the communities
it serves both through financial support and the volunteerism of its
people.
The Main Office and Corporate Headquarters of Bristol County Savings Bank are located on Broadway in Taunton, Massachusetts. For
additional information, please call 508-824-6626 or visit www.bristolcountysavings.com.
In order to maintain the high quality learning environment and inclusive, safe, Christian atmosphere for which Bishop Connolly is known,
a number of areas in need of attention were identified to prepare the
school for the future. Specifically, the Advancement Initiative will
support and strengthen five areas: Student and Family Outreach, Science, Math and Technology; The Athletic and Theater Complex; The
Student Center and Cafeteria; and The Building and Grounds.
“We are proud to celebrate all that Bishop Connolly has accomplished
in its first 50 years of serving the communities of southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island,” said Christopher Myron, President,
Bishop Connolly High School. “We are especially proud to be partnering with the Bristol County Savings Bank Charitable Foundation
5
BayCoast Bank commits $500, 000 to Southcoast Health Fundraising Campaign
BayCoast Bank Executive Vice President and Chief Lending Officer Carl W. Taber (center, left) and Vice President and Regional Branch Manager Paula Freitas, (center,
right) pause for a photo with Southcoast President & CEO Keith Hovan (left) and ob/gyn physician Veronica DelRiccio (right) during a recent tour of the newly renovated Stoico / FIRSTFED Maternity Center at St. Luke’s Hospital in New Bedford.
NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — Southcoast Health announced today that of compassionate care and the latest technology.
BayCoast Bank has committed a $500,000 grant to the Campaign for
Southcoast Health — a $25 million capital fundraising campaign which is The Lash Heart and Vascular Center at Charlton is home to Southcoast
the largest in the not-for-profit healthcare system’s history.
Health’s nationally-recognized Cardiovascular Services, including a stateof-the-art hybrid operating room and new electrophysiology lab. The hybrid
“Our commitment to the communities we serve is unwavering. BayCoast operating room is a cardiovascular surgical theatre equipped with advanced
is proud to support Southcoast Health, one of the largest health systems in
Massachusetts and a major care-provider for the South Coast region with
(Continuted on page 7)
this grant toward their capital campaign,” stated Nicholas Christ,
President & CEO of BayCoast Bank.
The Campaign for Southcoast Health is currently raising funds
to support major capital initiatives across Southcoast Health’s
three acute-care hospitals — Charlton Memorial in Fall River,
St. Luke’s in New Bedford and Tobey in Wareham. BayCoast
Bank’s gift will be split between the new, state-of-the-art Stoico
/ FIRSTFED Maternity Center at St. Luke’s and the Harold and
Virginia Lash Heart and Vascular Center at Charlton Memorial.
“BayCoast Bank is not only a tremendous partner to Southcoast
Health, but a significant community asset that takes action to
improve the quality of life for all in our region,” said Keith Hovan,
President & CEO of Southcoast Health. “BayCoast’s generous
support of Southcoast Health will help ensure that patients and
families in our region continue to have the very best facilities and
care in all of New England.”
6
Southcoast Health is the only provider of maternity services in the
South Coast region. Each year nearly 3,500 babies are delivered
between its three acute-care hospitals with 1,400 of those births
taking place at St. Luke’s. Maternity services at all three sites offer
a family-centered approach that provides the right combination
Southcoast Health is a community-based health delivery system with multiple access
points, offering an integrated continuum of health services throughout Southeastern
medical imaging devices to enable minimally-invasive surgery while bring Massachusetts and parts of Rhode Island. Southcoast Health’s mission is to promote
ing together doctors of different disciplines in the same operating room. the optimal health and well-being of individuals in the communities it serves. To achieve
The hybrid OR supports Southcoast Health’s structural heart procedures, this aim Southcoast Health has built an integrated “Community of Care” that delivers
vascular surgery and endovascular medicine.
safety, quality, convenience and an exceptional patient experience in an environment
that offers the greatest opportunity for improved health.
This past year, BayCoast Bank provided financial support to 303 local
nonprofits, with 32 percent of donated funds being directed to health and Southcoast Health is comprised of four hospitals — Charlton Memorial in Fall River,
human service initiatives.
St. Luke’s in New Bedford, Tobey in Wareham and Southcoast Behavioral Health in
Dartmouth — two Centers for Cancer Care, two Urgent Care Centers, a physician’s
PHOTO CAPTION: BayCoast Bank Executive Vice President and network, an employed physicians group, a visiting nurse association and numerous addiChief Lending Officer Carl W. Taber (center, left) and Vice President tional ambulatory facilities and serves more than 719,000 residents in 33 communities
and Regional Branch Manager Paula Freitas, (center, right) pause for a covering over 900 square miles.
photo with Southcoast President & CEO Keith Hovan (left) and ob/gyn
physician Veronica DelRiccio (right) during a recent tour of the newly Southcoast Health is the largest provider of primary and specialty care in the region
renovated Stoico / FIRSTFED Maternity Center at St. Luke’s Hospital with more than 600 physicians, hospitalists and mid-level practitioners in the Southcoast
in New Bedford.
Physicians Network — 450 of whom are employed by Southcoast Physicians Group
(SPG). SPG unites Southcoast Health’s primary care, surgical, and specialty services
into one seamless, region-wide provider. SPG is comprised of a wide-range of specialties
About BayCoast Bank
and offers advanced care locally. Physician practices are located throughout the South
Coast region and parts of Rhode Island. Southcoast Health is the largest employer south
BayCoast Bank is a successful community bank serving the people and businesses of of Quincy, Mass., and the 17th largest employer in the Commonwealth according to the
southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The Bank upholds the time-honored belief Boston Business Journal, with over 7,400 employees.
in community involvement and provides a wide range of financial services. BayCoast
has locations in Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Fall River, New Bedford, North Dighton, Southcoast Health is a not-for-profit charitable organization that depends on the supSeekonk, Somerset, Swansea, Westport and Tiverton, R.I.
port of the community to provide services. More information is available online at www.
southcoast.org. Connect to Southcoast Health through social media at www.southcoast.
About Southcoast Health
org/connect/.
(Continuted from page 6)
7
business Advice
Consider Consolidating Your Financial Accounts
If you have investments in a
number of accounts, it’s difficult to see your overall asset
allocation, ensure that your
holdings are properly diversified, and effectively manage
risk. By maintaining multiple
accounts, you may be overexposed to certain holdings while
leaving others underrepresented.
Bringing your investments under
one umbrella can provide a better view of your financial picture and allow you to see where
investment opportunities – and
potential risks – exist.
If you’ve changed jobs a few
times over the years or possibly relocated, chances are
you’ve left behind a string of
retirement and other accounts
along the way. This can make
your financial life complicated
and difficult to manage. More
importantly, maintaining a number of accounts at a variety of
different financial institutions is
not the same thing as diversification. All good reasons why consolidating your assets with one
financial service provider can
provide some key benefits.
First let’s consider two obvious
benefits of consolidation: convenience and simplicity. Fewer
accounts equal fewer statements,
less paperwork at tax time, etc.
Additionally, if you’re investing
with several providers, you may
be paying more fees than necessary. Generally, financial providers set fees based on account size
– accounts with larger balances
may qualify for break points
and lower fees. Merging smaller
accounts with one financial
institution may provide opportunities to reduce account and
transaction fees.
Consolidation also allows you
to take control of your portfolio
and manage it more effectively.
8
Another investment-related benefit of consolidation focuses on
tax efficiency. Bringing retirement accounts and investment
accounts together with one service provider may make it easier to implement a tax-efficient
investing strategy. With all your
assets in one place, you can be
sure the least tax-efficient assets
are in accounts that offer taxdeferral or exemption.
If you’re age 70 ½ or older,
you must take required minimum distributions (RMDs)
from Traditional, SEP, and
SIMPLE IRAs, as well as from
any 401(k) or other retirement
plan accounts left with former
employers. Failure to take RMDs
on time or in the right amount
can subject you to a 50% IRS
penalty tax. Having all retirement assets in one place can help
simplify RMD calculations and
payments.
Consolidation also can help you
keep beneficiary paperwork current. It’s important to always
make sure all of your investment and savings accounts have
up-to-date beneficiary information. This is especially important for retirement accounts,
because beneficiary designations on retirement accounts
supersede any instructions in
distribution.
your will or trust. Having fewer
accounts to keep up with can When considering rolling over
help make it easier to manage assets from an employer plan
this information.
to an IRA, factors that should
be considered and compared
If you decide to consolidate between the employer plan
your accounts, make sure you and the IRA include fees and
consider all of the implications. expenses, services offered,
Consolidating accounts might investment options, when penforce you to liquidate certain alty free withdrawals are availinvestments that could result in able, treatment of employer
unintended tax consequences. stock, when required minimum
For instance, if you own appre- distributions begin, and protecciated employer stock in a 401(k) tion of assets from creditors
or other workplace retirement and bankruptcy. Investing and
plan, you may no longer be able maintaining assets in an IRA
to take advantage of favorable will generally involve higher
tax treatment because of net costs than those associated with
unrealized appreciation (NUA) employer-sponsored retirement
if you move those assets into an plans. You should consult with
IRA. Other investments may the plan administrator and a
carry surrender charges or other professional tax advisor before
fees if you liquidate prematurely. making any decisions regarding
your retirement assets.
Consult with your tax professional and/or Financial Advisor
before tak ing any act ion. -----------------------------------Consolidating assets can offer a
number of benefits but should
only be done after careful consideration. The potential ben- Wells Fargo Advisors does not
efits of greater control, tax render legal or tax advice.
efficiency, lower fees, and convenience may make sense for This article was written by/for
you.
Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Nelson Dias,
If you are considering rolling Financial Advisor in Providence,
over retirement plan assets from RI at 401-459-6872.
a previous employer, please keep Investments in securities and
in mind that rolling over assets insurance products are:
NOT FDIC-INSURED
to an IRA is just one of multiple •
options for your retirement plan. •
N
O
T
Each of the following options is BANK-GUARANTEED
MAY LOSE VALUE
different and may have distinct •
advantages and disadvantages: Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC,
Member SIPC, is a registered
• Roll assets into an IRA.
broker-dealer and a separate
• Leave assets in your for- non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo
mer employer’s plan, if plan & Company.
allows.
©2016 Wells Fargo Advisors,
• Move assets into a new LLC. All rights reserved.
employer’s plan, if plan 0416-00819 (98722-v1) 04/16
allows.
• Cash-out or take a lump-sum
Blood Drives for the American Red Cross- August 2016: SouthCoast, MA
To make an appointment, please call 1-800-REDCROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org. All presenting donors have the chance to
OF THE GAME.
win two Boston Red Sox tickets and a chance to be honored on the field as the BLOOD DONOR
Blood Drives for the American Red Cross August 2016 For official rules of entry, visitredcrossblood.org/2016BDOG *Prizes SOUTH EAST MASSACHUSETTS not redeemable for cash and non-transferable.
TOWN DAY & DATE TIME ADDRESS Berkley Thursday, 8/25 1:00p – 6:00p Town Hall , 1 North Main Street Bridgewater Monday, 8/15 2:00p ‐7:00p Bridgewater Academy Lions, 5 Wally Krueger Way Dartmouth Fall River Monday, 8/15 Wednesday, 8/10 Tuesday, 8/16 Thursday, 8/11 2:00p – 7:00p 2:00p – 7:00p 12:00p – 5:00p 1:00p – 6:00p Cold Stone Creamery, 83 Faunce Corner Road Angels Anonymous at the Elks Lodge, 4500 North Main Street Saint Anne’s Hospital, 795 Middle Street New Bedford Monday, 8/8 Thursday, 8/11 Wednesday, 8/24 Wednesday, 8/31 2:00p ‐7:00p 2:00p – 7:00p 2:00p – 7:00p 1:00p – 6:00p Rehoboth Monday, 8/22 1:00p – 6:00p Somerset Swansea Tuesday, 8/16 Friday, 8/26 2:00p – 7:00p 1:00p – 6:00p Lakeville Saints Martha & Mary Church (Sponsored by Gym Hutt Gymnastics) 354 Bedford Street Fairfield Inn, 185 MacArthur Drive Greater New Bedford Community Health Center 874 Purchase Street (during AHA!) St. Luke’s Hospital, 101 Page Street St. Luke’s Hospital, 101 Page Street Power Red Cell Drive for types O, A‐, & B‐ Rehoboth Congregation Church , 139 Bay State Road Saint Patrick’s Church, 306 South Street Swansea Mall, 262 Swansea Mall Drive TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT, PLEASE CALL 1‐800‐REDCROSS OR VISIT www.redcrossblood.org All presenting donors have the chance to win 2 Boston Red Sox Tickets and
a chance to be honored on the field as the BLOOD DONOR OF THE GAME
For official rules of entry, visitredcrossblood.org/2016BDOG
*Prizes not redeemable for cash and non-transferable.
9
Kelsey Garcia: “Love Where You Live”
the details here!
“It has always disappointed me to hear people speak negatively
about the South Coast. I know this region has a lot to offer, and it is
my goal to showcase that with my photography, while paying homage
to the rich history. This area once thrived in textile production and I
wanted to explore what that industry now looks like here in the 21st
century.” -Kelsey Garcia, K. Garcia Productions, CEO
Garcia has gathered local models for this Southcoast photoshoot,
including myself! I will be modeling for my hometown, Westport.
The following local clothing and accessory designers helped make this
project become a success:
Kelsey Garcia, owner of K.Garcia Productions has portrayed the local community by spotlighting local Southcoast vendors with her new
campaign called “Love Where You Live Southcoast”.
When asked about her motif behind the project, Garcia told Fun 107
that she was fed up with the focus that people have on the negative
aspects of where they live, thus welcoming more negativity.
So how do you plan on making our community move closer to a positive limelight?
“We are working on a photo project that promotes South Coast Massachusetts. “Love Where You Live SouthCoast” showcases clothing
and accessories made here, and modeled by leaders in the area, to
highlight the region’s rich history in the textile industry.” Garcia said.
On August 25, Garcia will present the full gallery for one night only at
Government Center in Fall River, in coordination with and thanks to
AHA in Fall River.​
For further information or interest in attending the Gallery, check out
10
Almost Fancy Designs – Dartmouth
Gnome Surf – Fall River
​Electrikk Clothing – Fall River
1ov3 Collection – Fall River
The Landing – New Bedford
Fnurra Smycken (Knotted Jewelry) – Fall River
Velo – Fall River
Trevor James Products – Mattapoisett
Beachside Baubles & Beads – Fall River
To learn more about “Love Where you live SouthCoast” please visit
(INSERT HER FACEBOOK INFO HERE)
Call for Makers Now Open: Southcoast Elizabeth Machado Hired at Vice President of
MA Mini Maker Faire to be held
Finance & Human Resources at People, Inc.rated
September 18, 10-4
Innovation is riding on the sea breezes of the SouthCoast this
year, with the arrival of the Southcoast MA Mini Maker Faire on
Sunday, September 18, 2016 from 10:00 am to 4:00 p.m. at the
Fall River YMCA, 199 North Main Street, Fall River, Massachusetts.
In order to tap into our area’s rich and complex history of cultural diversity and manufacturing, this is a call to all makers who
wish to showcase their crafts and talents. The Southcoast MA
Mini Maker Faire believes that the most innovative ideas with the
greatest economic impact will arrive through the work of those
in the DIY movement. This new generation of tech savvy Fall
River residents will bring revitalized life to the local culture and
economy, creating a bridge to a great future and turning Fall River
into a Massachusetts Gateway to the future.
The Maker Faire began in 2005 in San Mateo, CA, with the objective of fostering creativity and invention to create a better future.
It has since grown to 114 events around the world in 2014, with
another 14 featured Maker Faires. Follow the Southcoast Mini
Maker Faire on Twitter “@southcoastminimakerfaire” and on its’
Facebook page: www.facebook.com/southcoastminimakerfaire.
The call for Makers, performers and crafters is open now through
August 1, 2016. Any groups or individuals interested in participating in this inaugural event should complete the simple application
available at southcoastminimakerfaire.com. Please respond before
August 15, 2016.
Southcoast MA Mini Maker Faire is presented through a community partnership between: Make Magazine, UMass DartmouthCIE, AHA! Fall River, YMCA Southcoast, CNP Integrations,
EforAll, Business Innovation Center, Tinker Bristol, Precision
Engineering, Narrows Center of the Arts, CC Makers and other
organizations.
Contact: Christopher Nielsen at (401) 662-1035 (mobile) or (508)
644-1553 (office) for more information.
People, Incorporated is pleased to
announce that Elizabeth Machado
has been hired as the Agency’s Vice
President of Finance and Human
Resources. In this newly created position, Liz will be responsible for the
preparation, monitoring, controlling,
and reporting of budget, financial and
human resources information as it
relates to the mission of the Agency
while promoting continuous quality
improvement.
Liz earned her Bachelors of Science
Degree in Accounting at Bryant University and is a CPA. Previous to her
employment with People, Incorporated, Liz held the position of Director of Finance at the International
Charter School where she had overall
responsibility for fiscal oversight as
well as human resources. Prior to her work at the International Charter School,
Liz was an audit supervisor with the regional CPA firm of CBIZ Tofias.
“We are excited to have Liz join our Agency in this integral position”, stated
Megan Scheffer, COO/CFO at People, Incorporated. “Her previous experience, combined with her knowledge of intricate contract negotiations, audit
proficiencies, grant reporting, budget and forecast development as well as professional training will enhance the strength of our administrative team as well as
our Agency overall. As one of the largest providers of supports and services to
people of all abilities in the Southcoast, we understand our success is because of
the talented and passionate people we employ who embrace our mission -- creating paths of opportunity for so many. We look forward to Liz being part of and
working towards our continued success at People, Incorporated.”
For further information about this topic or other programs at People, Incorporated, please contact Pamela O’Neill, Vice President of Administration at People, Incorporated, (774) 627-2404 or visit our website at www.peopleinc-fr.org.
People, Incorporated, the path to opportunity!
11
YMCA SouthCoast Promotes New Family
Program for Youth Living with Obesity
Fall River Grand Prix August 27 & 28, 2016
Healthy Weight and Your Child empowers kids and families to get
healthy together
New Bedford, MA/June 28, 2016 – On September 14, YMCA Southcoast will begin offering Healthy Weight and Your Child, a program
designed to empower children between the ages of 7-13, with the
support of their families, to reach a healthy weight and live a healthier
lifestyle.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
obesity now affects 17 percent of all children and adolescents in the
United States - triple the rate from just one generation ago. Today, 1
in 6 children are living with obesity and 1 in 3 are overweight, which
poses greater risks for a number of health problems such as type 2
diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and mental health issues.
“YMCA Southcoast has a long history of advancing the health and
well-being of children and families and helping children reach a healthy
weight is important now more than ever,” said Mary Beth Gamache,
Program Lead and Health & Wellness Director @ the New Bedford
YMCA. “Healthy Weight and Your Child emphasizes behavior changes
to support healthy eating and physical activity.”
On August 27 & 28, 2016 the Offshore Powerboat Association (OPA)
and American Power Boat Association (APBA), the two largest offshore powerboat racing organizations in the US, will team up for the
second annual Fall River Grand Prix.
This is the first event of its kind in New England. During the race
weekend, the Borden Light Marina will have bleacher seating and a race
village filled with live music vendors.
Spectators can look forward to an “on-land” 40-boat-long parade, a
block party and live performances at the Gates of the City; and listen
to a live broadcast the Fall River Grand Prix from OPA officials. The
broadcast will also be available for download.
For detailed information about race day events, including race route
information, please visit http://www.oparacing.org/race7.html
For more information, including sponsorship opportunities, please
contact Mike Lund at 508-944-3728.
Through the leadership of Y staff, the yearlong evidence-based program engages a child and adult as a pair, so together they can understand how the home environment and other factors influence the
choices that lead to a healthy weight.
Made up of groups of 10 to 15 families (child and adult), the program
creates a safe, fun and active environment for children and families to
explore and adopt proven methods to living a healthier lifestyle.
To participate in the program, each child must be between the ages
of 7 and 13, have a body mass index greater than or equal to the 95th
percentile, be cleared by a health care provider and accompanied by an
adult at every session.
The program will be offered at the New Bedford, Fall River and Wareham locations beginning on Wednesday, September 14th, 2016.
YMCA Southcoast is one of only 19 Ys in the U.S. to offer this program.
For more information contact Mary Beth Gamache, [email protected]
ABOUT YMCA SOUTHCOAST: The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living
and social responsibility. With six branch sites serving more than 37,000 people,
YMCA SOUTHCOAST has been working to meet the needs of our community.
The Y engages people of all ages – regardless of income or background – to nurture
the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and well-being, and
provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. Everyone is welcome at
the Y and financial assistance is available. For more information about YMCA
SOUTHCOAST, visit one of the branches in Dartmouth, Fall River, Mattapoisett, New Bedford, Swansea and Wareham or online at ymcasouthcoast.org.
12
"Representing Fine Companies Such as"
Education Section
After School at the Y Ignites Spark in Every Child
A new school year means a fresh start for kids—a chance to start new routines and habits, build new friendships and discover new possibilities and
interests. Back-to-school is a fresh start for youth and the people who care
for them. As children transition from summer to fall, yMCA Southcoast is
offering programs to school-aged children throughout the Southcoast community to keep youth active, busy and engaged during out-of-school time.
Through a holistic approach to youth development, the y’s program[s]
offer[s] activities in a caring and safe environment during the critical hours
after school. Whether through sports, mentorship, or academic support, the
y’s afterschool program’s staff nurtures the potential of youth throughout
the school year.
At the end of the day when the school bell rings, 11.3 million kids are headed
home to be unsupervised from 3 to 6 p.m., according to the Afterschool
Alliance, a nonprofit public awareness advocacy organization. With a new
school year about to begin, yMCA Southcoast encourages parents/caregivers
to make sure that children are involved in safe, educational experiences after
school hours.
“Learning enrichment after school is essential to increasing children’s success in school,” said Kathleen Treglia, Executive Director of Education for
yMCA Southcoast. “The opportunity to get additional learning and support,
as well as participate in meaningful activities can inspire children’s motivations and abilities to succeed.”
The Y is a leading nonprofit committed to nurturing the potential of every
child and teen, supporting their social-emotional, cognitive and physical development from birth to career. In the yMCA’s afterschool programs youth
receive homework assistance and can also explore art, music, and have fun in
the y pool, playing organized sports and games in the gym, or on the climbing wall and hiking in our outdoor centers. Financial assistance is available to
those in need, to ensure every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and
grow at the y and the y accepts PACE Vouchers.
The yMCA Southcoast has adopted a set of Healthy Eating and Physical Activity standards in our afterschool programs that build a healthier future for
our nation’s children by providing healthy environments rich in opportunities
for healthy eating and physical activity.
The y will open 13 state licensed after school programs in; Swansea, Fall
River, Dartmouth, New Bedford, Acushnet, Mattapoisett, Rochester, Marion,
Wareham and Bourne. For more information about the afterschool program, please contact Kathy Treglia, Executive Director of Education at
508.996.9622.x 118 or via email at [email protected] .
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities
through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. With
six branch sites serving more than 37,000 people, yMCA SOUTHCOAST
has been working to meet the needs of our community for over 150 years.
The y engages people of all ages – regardless of income or background – to
nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the nation’s health and
well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors.
Everyone is welcome at the Y and financial assistance is available. For more
information about yMCA SOUTHCOAST or to donate, visit one of the
branches in Dartmouth, Fall River, Mattapoisett, New Bedford, Swansea and
Wareham or online at ymcasouthcoast.org.
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Mention this ad for a 10% discount on parts with repaids.
13
Students Provide Valuable Help to Businesses
The UMass Dartmouth Center for Marketing Research (CMR) held its bi-annual Client Dinner at the SouthCoast Business Center in Fairhaven, MA. The purpose of the
dinner was to deliver semester-long research projects to clients. Student teams worked
with New Bedford Credit Union, Burgo Basketball Association, Dartmouth Mall,
CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, UMassDartmouth Graduate Studies and Admissions, UMassDartmouth University Marketing, IMTRA and the Venus de Milo.
In total, 8 projects were conducted using a range of different methods. Some of
the students worked in the field doing intercepts while others conducted telephone
surveys. The class as a whole worked over 1200 hours during the fall semester to collect thousands of surveys with an estimated value of $120,000. Each research study
presented to the clients is valued at $15,000 to $20,000. Through the CMR research
program, all clients were able to get this work at deeply discounted prices.
Each student team sat at a private table with their client and shared the findings of
these customized studies. Clients expressed how impressed they were with the professional look of the final project and their satisfaction with what they heard from the
student team.
Beth Zager from the Dartmouth Mall had asked her team to research the preferences
of mall shoppers. They said the information uncovered by the students would help
them make decisions about new stores and restaurants for the Dartmouth Mall. Byron said, “This research is invaluable for us and done so professionally”.
Eric Braitmayer, President/CEO of marine supply company IMTRA, expressed his
gratitude to the students and to the Center for Marketing Research for being “so flexible and open to ideas of their clients”. She praised the opportunity for focused on his
study. He said he enjoyed his collaboration with the students and called the program
“invaluable”.
Dr. Nora Ganim Barnes, Director of the program, explains, “There is nothing more
important for these students than having a real world business experience”.
Steve Byron, General Manager of the Dartmouth Mall, talked to the clients and
students and told them how important he felt the work of the Center for Marketing
Research is to the student experience at Umass Dartmouth. As a client of the program, he also spoke about the high quality of the work provided.
After a buffet dinner, the students had an opportunity to tell their clients about the
many challenges they faced during the course of the projects. They were also quite
vocal about their ideas to help the client succeed.
The program repeats in the upcoming spring semester. Any business interested in
becoming a client can call Dr. Barnes directly at 508-999-8756.
14
CHAMBER NEWS
Welcome New Members
Thursday 9/29, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: 4 South Main St, Fall River, MA
Sponsored By: People Inc.
2016 Schedule
Wednesday 8/24, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: 330 Swansea Mall Dr, Swansea, MA
Sponsored By: BayCoast Bank
Thursday 9/8, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: Center for Workforce
& Community Education
1082 Davol St, Fall River, MA
Sponsored By: Bristol Community College
Roberts Joseph Staffing
Join Date: 06/30/2016
Thursday 10/27, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: 1565 N. Main St, Suite 406,
Fall River, MA
Sponsored By: Center For Sight
Thursday 11/17, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: Venus de Milo, 75 Grand Army
Hwy, Swansea, MA
Herald News Holiday Fund Kick Off
Sponsored By: Venus de Milo, The Herald
News and the Fall River Area Chamber
GenCon
Join Date: 07/07/2016
Tickle’s
Join Date: 07/18/2016
Naragansett Bay Anesthesia
Thursday 12/1, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
Location: 66 State Rd, Westport, MA
Holiday Business After Hours
Sponsored By: White’s of Westport
Join Date: 07/18/2016
Spectra Energy
Join Date: 07/26/2016
REMINDER: Federal Overtime Rule Takes Effect December 1, 2016
Dear Chamber Members,
• These changes take effect on December 1, 2016.
A new Federal Overtime Rule executed by the U.S. Department of Labor
(DOL) will likely impact your business. Many of you are just now becoming aware that the DOL has unveiled new overtime regulations that increases to the salary threshold for paid overtime. These changes are significant. Below are some bullet points from the new Overtime Final Rule
regulations:
• The Overtime Final Rule also establishes a mechanism for automatically updating the salary and compensation levels every three years, with
the first update to take place in 2020.
• The DOL changes raise the qualifying salary threshold level from its
previous amount of $455 per week (the equivalent of $23,660 per year)
to a new level of $913 per week (the equivalent of $47,476 per year).
• Unless exempt, employees covered by the FLSA must receive overtime
pay for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek at a rate not less than
one and one-half times their regular rates of pay.
• Salaried white collar employees paid below the updated salary level are
generally entitled to overtime pay, while employees paid at or above the
salary threshold level may be exempt from overtime pay if they primarily perform certain duties as defined within the DOL’s “Primary Duties
Test.”
• The new Overtime Final Rule does not include any changes to the duties tests, which can affect the determination of who is exempt from
overtime.
• The new Overtime Final Rule also raises the compensation level for
highly compensated employees subject to a more minimal duties test
from its previous amount of $100,000 to $134,004 annually.
• There are no small business or non-profit exemptions from the new
Overtime Final Rule.
For a more in depth review of the new regulation please refer to the link
provided below. It is also recommended that you speak with your legal or
HR advisor for guidance on how to comply with the new Overtime Final
Rule regulation.
Guidance for Private Employers on Changes to the White Collar Exemptions in the Overtime Final Rule
https://www.dol.gov/whd/overtime/final2016/general-guidance.pdf
It is hoped that this information is helpful. As always please do not hesitate
to contact the Chamber with any questions.
Respectfully,
ROBERT A. MELLION, ESQ.
President and CEO
General Counsel
15
Ribbon Cuttings and Grand Openings
The Chamber assists new or existing businesses with grand openings
and ribbon cutting ceremonies. We add to a special event by publishing it
in our monthly “Business News” newspaper that is circulated throughout
the Fall River to Providence metro region.
Chamber Membership Matters!
Training and Workforce Education
Benefits of Chamber Membership
The benefits we offer at the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry
are specifically tailored to increase a member company’s productivity, efficiency, access to information and influential people, and above all, generate
new revenue opportunities.
Affordable Health Insurance Coverage
The Chamber Health Insurance Coop is a group purchasing program that
makes health insurance more affordable for Chamber member businesses.
Any small business with 1 to 50 full-time employees that is a Fall River Area
Chamber of Commerce member is eligible to participate the Chamber Health
Insurance Coop. The Chamber can also refer your company to an experienced
insurance broker who will knowledgeably assist in identifying the best plan
and benefits that meets your needs.
Money Saving Programs
Our Member-to-Member discount program is outstanding. It allows business
owners and employees from each Chamber member business the opportunity
to receive at a discount from participating businesses just by presenting their
membership card. The Chamber has also negotiated many affinity partnerships designed to save your company money in advertising, e-commerce, office
supplies, legal fees, etc.
Massachusetts has the highest cost of energy in the United States. While
advocating to reduce the cost of energy the Chamber has also made available
several energy cost savings programs for small and large businesses. An example is a cost saving collaborative option made available through the SouthCoast
Electric Power Group (SCEPG). SCEPG is administered by the Chamber for
large scale energy users. Best Practice Energy, LLC offers electricity purchasing options for a wider range of needs.
Member Referrals
The Chamber refers and promotes members in good standing. Every day,
the Chamber receives requests for business referrals and references regarding
health insurers, manufacturers, service providers, restaurants, tourist attractions, builders, realtors, attorneys, accountants, plumbers, retailers, etc. The
Chamber also frequently learns of opportunities that may not be known to the
general population. That information is passed along to Chamber members.
Make sure the Chamber promotes and links your company to referrals and
other opportunities by being a Chamber member.
16
The Chamber partners with a variety of business professionals to present
seminars, forums and trainings. They are all focused toward the needs of
your company. All seminars are either free, or offered at a reduced cost
to Chamber members.
Business Networking
To help you grow your company the Chamber offers a variety of business networking and social events throughout the year. They are designed
to generate less formal occasions for introductions, information sharing
and provide new business leads and growth potential. These events are
free to Chamber members.
Reduced Cost Advertising and Promotional Opportunities
There are many ways to link your company to the Chamber brand.
High impact marketing opportunities include the “Voice of Business,”
a Chamber produced weekly radio program on WSAR1480AM; the
“Business World Segment” radio program, on Radio Voz do Emigrante/
WHTB1400AM, which connects the Chamber with the SE Massachusetts
and Rhode Island Portuguese speaking community; the “Workforce
Connection,” a Chamber cable access television program; the “Business
Connection” a monthly editorial page in The Herald News; the “Business
News,” our monthly newspaper publication; sponsorship of events;
placement in our website directory and many other media partnership
opportunities.
Voice of Business Since 1911
The Chamber represents the membership in matters regarding local,
state and federal legislation and economic development that impacts businesses and the community. We also provide a unified and effective voice
on issues and concerns that has repeatedly provided tangible results for
member businesses.
Much More!
Notary public services are provided by the Chamber free to members.
Certificate of Origin stamping is another free benefit. The Chamber also
provides free employment and classified ad listings for Chamber members
on our website, and there is so much more!
Testimonials: THE BENEFITS OF CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP
Over the summer, we’ve asked various Chamber members, how they have personally benefitted from membership.
Here is what our members have to say about joining:
Arthur Pacheco, Aflac
of it. It’s that simple. I encourage all existing members
to utilize every benefit the Chamber has to offer. And to
There are many benefits of membership in the Chamber, any prospective members, I urge you to join so that you
however one stands out above the rest. I am a relentless too can see first hand how your organization can and will
networker and the majority of my contacts have come succeed if you are an active member of the Fall River
from the Chamber. As with anything else you only get Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
back what you put into it. The trick is to participate as
much as possible.
Robert Vitello, Director of Corporate
Services, Bristol Community College:
Kate M. Eastman, New York Life Insurance
Company
Bristol Community College has a long history of
involvement with the Fall River Area Chamber of
The Fall River Chamber of Commerce is a tremendous Commerce and Industry because there are
benefit to the community for both myself personally and many benefi ts. The Chamber has its fi nger on the pulse
for my business. I moved to Fall River in 2011 for a job of all the developments in our region whether its the
and did not know anyone in the area. My friends and
changes at the Airport Industrial
family live over an hour away in Gloucester, MA and
Park or challenges facing smaller employers.
having gone to school in New Hampshire, that network -BCC fi nds partnering with the Chamber one of the
was even further.
best ways to connect to our local business community.
The Chamber is tireless in promoting
Through the Chamber, and joining different committees the region through all mediums, including, events, print,
and attending countless business after hours, I was able
radio, TV and social media. This includes highlighting
to form numerous relationships.
workforce education and
training opportunities.
Many of these relationships have evolved into friendThe BCC Center for Workforce & Community Educaships. The Chamber helps me feel welcomed into an area tion partners with the Chamber every year to promote
that is very different from where I grew up; small town Workforce Development month
to a bigger city. I still consistently attend business after
and to connect employers and employees with skills trainhour events as well as remain active on committees. As
ing that helps companies be more competitive globally by
the chamber grows, I grow.
hiring the best workers.
Working with the Chamber staff and getting involved
Chris Johnson, Marketing Representative
in Chamber committees and activities is one of the easiest ways for BCC to stay connected.
SERVPRO® of Dartmouth / New Bedford
SERVPRO® of Marion / Middleboro
Brian LeComte, Treasurer, Gold Medal
Bakery:
I have been a member of the Fall River Area Cham- Gold Medal Bakery has been a member of the Fall
ber of Commerce for the past 8 years. Being a Chamber River Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry since
member has benefited me tremendously over the years. I 1988. We are a 4th generation family business, founded
am constantly in front of Presidents and Vice Presidents in the North End of Fall River in 1912. Like many
of companies, area business owners, sales people, market- businesses in the Fall River area, we started in the
ers, etc. on just about a weekly basis.
Founder’s basement serving its local neighborhood.
I’ve been able to help ensure that other businesses are getting the biggest ROI possible from their Chamber membership. As the marketing rep for SERVPRO Dartmouth/New Bedford, I am also keeping my company top
of mind in the event that a disaster may occur whether
it be in their business or their personal lives. We have in
fact received a number of calls regarding everything from
fires, water damage, mold, duct cleaning, etc. just in the
past few months directly from fellow Chamber members,
tively affect our future growth prospects. The Chamber
seeks to solve a range of issues, including local tax rates,
zoning, energy policy, wage and benefi t laws, healthcare,
route 79 upgrades, public transportation, rail upgrades,
economic development, education and much more to promote Fall River as a great place to do business. All
of this allows Gold Medal Bakery to focus on profitably
growing our company.
Kelsey Garcia, Owner/Photographer,
K.Garcia Productions:
This year the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce
named me young entrepreneur
of the year, something I am very proud of. The chamber
has been a big piece to my company, K. Garcia Productions.
I joined the Chamber of Commerce about two years ago,
when my father, Carl Garcia, suggested that I should.
The networking alone has been very helpful to the
growth of K. Garcia Productions.
I love meeting new businesses in the area, and I believe
that working with them everyone can grow and make
Fall River, and the surrounding cities, a better place.
Curtis Nelson LUTCF, CPIA
Nelson Insurance & Financial Services Inc.
The Fall River Area Chamber of Comerce has benefited
my business in many ways. Over the several years I have
been a member, I have made dozens of contacts. Many
of these contacts have become clients, friends and colleagues that I can call on for assistance and advice.
The Chamber has helped me grow professionally with the
many seminars I have attended over the years and by being involved in the various committees and the Board of
Directors. One particular opportunity for growth was
when I was selected to represent the Chamber in Leadership Southcoast as a participant in the class of 2006.
Today, Gold Medal Bakery employs 600 people across
13 states, serving fresh baked bread and rolls to the
Northeastern United States. We are focused on serving
our customers exceptionally high quality baked goods.
Leadership Southcoast expanded my horizons by making
new contacts on a reginal basis. I would not have been
able to participate in this program if it weren’t for the
Chamber and the late Fernando Garcia, who co-sponsored my attendance in the program.
The Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce helps
protect the entrepreneurial spirit and culture that is responsible for our growth. Their expertise lies at the state
and local level where they are keenly aware of issues
that affect all businesses.
What I have gotten out of the Chamber far exceeds the
time and energy I have put into. I highly recommend that
every business both small and large; new and old become
a member of the Chamber.
I serve as an ambassador to the Chamber, am a former
Chair of the Membership Committee and am currently Led by President and CEO Rob Mellion, the team at
serving on the Membership and Events committee. The the Chamber works tirelessly on our behalf to promote
more active you are in the Chamber, the more you get out local businesses; and address legislation that would nega-
Join the Fall River Area Chamber of
Commerce & Industry Today!
Call us at (508) 676-8226 to learn more. 17
CHAMBER IN ACTION
Reduction in the Tax Rate for Businesses
• During the past 6 years, the Chamber has suc-
cessfully advocated for a reduction in the commercial tax shift rate in the City of Fall River. For
the third year in a row, the commercial tax shift
rate has been reduced from the maximum 1.75
rate to 1.69% for fiscal year 2016. A reduction
in the commercial property tax shift is meaningful relief to businesses, who would be paying
significantly higher taxes but for the advocacy of
the Chamber.
• The $10,000 personal property tax exemption
for small businesses was also continued in 2016
thanks to Chamber advocacy.
•
•
Working with the City of Fall River the Chamber
helped establish a Medical District.
•
• The Chamber provided technical assistance in
establishing and advocating for a Waterfront
District.
•
• The Chamber provided technical assistance in
the establishment of and LED Sign ordinance in
Fall River that now allows businesses to promote
themselves with modern technology.
•
•
• The Chamber also assisted in the creation of
the largest 43D District in Massachusetts that
allowed Amazon.com to locate in Fall River.
•
State and Federal Legislation
• The Chamber testified on the impacts of the
•
•
•
Sick Pay Leave Law and was part of a coalition
that thwarted passage of an extended medical
leave statute.
The Chamber was an active participant in the
shaping of Massachusetts energy policy by testifying and providing feedback on the House and
Senate Energy Bills.
The Chamber continues to push forward on
Gateway Cities incentive legislation, reducing the
cost of healthcare, addressing opposition to noncompete agreements, revisions to the independent contractor laws and repeals or amendments
to numerous taxes and regulations impacting
local businesses.
•
volved with the planning and design of the $200
million improved Interstate 195/Route 79 interchange system along the Fall River waterfront.
The spaghetti ramp system that once separated
the business districts of Fall River from the waterfront has been replaced with a thoroughfare
roadway that invites commuters into Fall River
rather than driving over it.
Now the Chamber’s focus is working with
FROED and other partners on preparations for
the construction of the Route 79 North project.
This $80 million project establishes a boulevard
and approximately 11 developable prime waterfront acres along the Taunton River. Recently,
project funding was secured within the approved
MassDOT Capital Investment Plan.
Working with the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA), the Chamber has been
directly involved with expanding public transportation within Fall River, Somerset, Swansea and
Westport, which now includes night and weekend bus services.
The Chamber is additionally working with the
State of Massachusetts to increase commercial
freight activities by expanding rail and shipping
along the Taunton River.
Advocacy continues for a pragmatic commuter
rail services solution that connects Fall River
and New Bedford to Taunton, Bridgewater and
Boston.
Branding
• A branding campaign in partnership with the
•
•
The Chamber partnered with the City of Fall
Chamber directed marketing materials have been
updated to spotlight area assets in order to attract and retain businesses.
• Replacement of the water tower in the Industrial
Park that services over 70 businesses, the north
end of Fall River and the new Life Sciences and
Technology Park in Fall River and others is completed. The Chamber was part this project from
start to finish.
• Working with the City of Fall River, the Industrial Park Association, FR Development Corp.,
FROED and Comcast, the Chamber was an
active participant in working to resolve the
infrastructure issues in the Industrial Park that
impeded the availability of broadband internet
and phone services.
• The Chamber worked with Comcast to install
Broadband cable down Pocasset Street and to
the Fall River Waterfront District.
• The Block Island Ferry, a Chamber member, is in
its 3rd year of service in Fall River. The Chamber worked with FROED and the City of Fall
River to bring high speed ferry service form Fall
River to Block Island and Newport.
• Working with FROED and Battleship Cove, the
Chamber helped find a solution that reopen the
Fall River Carrousel.
Education and Workforce Development
• The Education Committee is in the midst of
implementing a sustained multi-media marketing
campaign aimed at raising educational aspiration
levels throughout the region. The “EdUp” campaign may prove to be one of the most important initiatives undertaken by the Chamber.
• All area College Day, now in its 3rd year, was
established by the Chamber’s Education Committee.
• The Education Committee additionally worked
to expand the role of Teach For America in the
Fall River schools and assisted in the introduction of the UAspire financial counseling program
that helps students plan for funding a college
education.
City of Fall River is about to be launched.
The Chamber is working with the City of Fall
River and AHA! Fall River to develop a year
round anti-litter and urban beautification campaign.
River in producing a promotional video.
Business Supportive Infrastructure
• From the start the Chamber was directly in-
• The Chamber worked with the City of Fall River
•
The Chamber is currently working with several
state and federal partners to build national and
state awareness campaigns aimed at legislators
about the impacts of punitive laws against businesses.
•
Transportation
Zoning that improves the Local Business
Climate
and the City Council to draft and implement a
more business friendly zoning ordinance.
The Chamber was part of a coalition seeking a
continued extension of a waiver for Massachusetts from the onerous conditions within the
Affordable Care Act.
(Continued on page 20)
WE’RE LIKE A
GPS FOR
GETTING YOUR
BUSINESS
TO THE
RIGHT PLACE.
Just Right Commercial Loans from BayCoast Bank
Whatever your reasons for needing a commercial loan, our team of lenders can help you. With financial
advice, and smart business insights, we’re always accessible and ready to listen. Our loan decisions are made
locally, so you don’t have to wait long to find out if you’ve been approved. Contact us by email or phone, and
let’s see how our money can become your money.
Get the BayCoast advantage for your business.
For more information visit BayCoastBank.com or call 508-678-7641.
Member FDIC Member DIF
(Continued from page 18)
Tourism Promotion
Chocolate vs. Pumpkin Affair 09/22/2016
• To increase awareness about local tourism, the Chamber partnered with Di-
The Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry will hold a
“Chocolate vs. Pumpkin Affair,” in conjuction with FUN 107 at White’s
of Westport, 66 State Road, Westport, MA 02790, on September 22, 2016
from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m
•
• Each day the Chamber staff answers questions from the many people who
The event will featured an array of sweet treat samplings, and a host of
vendors, including Wicked Kickin Savory Cheesecakes, The Pink Bean
Coffee Shop and Lindt chocolate.
•
• The Chamber also produces area maps and a Business and Tourism Guide that
Be sure to stay tuned to the Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce
Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/frchamber/ and visit the Fall
River Area Chamber of Commerce events calendar at http://fallriverchamber.com/events/ for more information on the new Chocolate Affair, and
our upcoming scheduled event.
•
• The Chamber has been instrumental in restructuring the Regional Tourism
* Please note: Tickets purchased for the Chocolate Affair on April 27 are fully transferrable to the Chocolate vs. Pumpkin Affair on September 22.
man Regional Vocational Technical High School to redesign the lobby area of
the Chamber building into a Visitor and Information Center (VIC). This is the
only Visitor and Information Center in Bristol County. The Chamber’s VIC is
sponsored by BankFive.
visit Fall River and the surrounding towns. The Chamber also directs visitors
to area attractions such as Battleship Cove, wine vineyards in Westport, the
Lizzie Borden House and the Narrows Center for the Arts.
is filled with information about attractions, points of interest, local museums
and restaurants.
Council for Southeastern Massachusetts. The result is that Bristol County is
now able to better promote the region’s many tourism assets.
Chamber Health Insurance Coop
• The Chamber Health Insurance Coop was introduced in 2012 to lower the
cost of health insurance for local small businesses. This is a group purchasing
plan that helps make health insurance more affordable for small businesses
with 1 to 50 employees.
Communications and Reaching Out
• The Chamber maintains a website at www.fallriverchamber.com that is rich in
content.
•
• In its 8th season, the Chamber airs over 50 installments throughout the year
of the “Voice of Business” radio program every Wednesday at 1:00 p.m. on
WSAR1480AM. Past shows are available at www.wsar.com for podcast listening.
•
• In September 2013, The Chamber debuted the Workforce Connection Televi-
sion Show. The Workforce Connection is a production partnership between
the Chamber, Bristol Community College and FRCMedia. The show spotlights
workforce development and education issues while also drawing attention to
opportunities for area employers that benefit the area workforce.
•
• Starting its 3rd Season, the “Business World” weekly radio program on Radio
•
Voz do Emigrante/WHTB1400AM, connects the SE Massachusetts and
Rhode Island Portuguese speaking community with the issues impacting area
businesses. This effort is a collaboration between Radio Voz do Emigrante and
the Chamber. Business World airs on WHTB1400AM every Thursday at 4:00
p.m.
Other Chamber publications include 12 monthly editions of the Business
News newspaper, a monthly Business Connection page in The Herald News,
a community map, a visitor and business directory and the publication of numerous opinion editorials. The Chamber also reaches out by providing social
media content on FaceBook, LinkedIn and Twitter and with weekly news and
events emails.
MULTICULTURAL
In Khmer
As part of a Multi-Cultural iniative, each month, we will feature an article written in a language other than English. If you would like to participate, please contact
[email protected]
20
21
Member to Member discount program
Restaurants
Beacon light tavern
15% Off, Food Only
(508) 675-5044
www.beaconlighttavern.com
Blount clam shack
& Company Store
10% Off
(774) 888-0050
www.blountfinefoods.com
jerry remy’s bar &
grill
10% Off, Food Only
(774) 365-6905
www.jerryremys.com/fallriver
Patti’s pierogies
10% Off, International Platter
(508) 679-4001
www.pattispierogis.com
Tipsy toboggan
10% Discount
(508) 944-3728
Retail/services
3rd eye photography
10% Off and
Free Initial Consultation
(508) 212-9052
www.3rdeyephotography.net
accurate service, inc
10% Off Storage
(508)674-5773
www.accurateservice.com
At your service
10% Off
(508) 677-6700
baker sign works
10 % Off, $500+
(508) 674-6600
www.bakerssignworks.com
Battleship Cove
20% Off
(508) 678-1100
www.battleshipcove.com
22
blast off llc
15% Off Residential Cleaning
20% Off Commercial Paint/
Stain Removal
(774) 218-0696
www.blastoffclean.biz
Book Outlet Store
Buy 4 Books, Get the 5th Free
(508) 676-8700
www.amazingsalebooks.com
busy bee jumpers &
tents
20% Off
(781) 447-8300
www.busybeejumpers.com
Camara’s heating &
air conditioning
10% Off
(508) 636-8325
www.camarasheatingandac.com
Cape cod dinner
train
$10 Off Elegant Dinner
(508) 771-3800
Center for sight
$50 OFF Pair of Eyeglasses
$500.00 OFF Lasik
(508) 672-6340
www.center-for-sight.com
Children’s museum of
greater fall river
10% Off Admission
(508) 672-0033
www.cmgfr.com
Comfort Inn & Suites
10% Off Room Rates
(508) 672-0011
www.comfortinnfallriver.com
Commonwealth fire
arms & training
20% Off Fishing Accessories /
LTC License
(774) 294-5445
corporate image
apparel inc.
10% Off
(508) 676-3099
www.ciainc.com
Dave’s tire & auto
service
10% Off Parts with Repairs
10% Off Tires
(508) 679-6482
www.davestireandauto.com
D.E. Rodrigues & Co.
Free Initial Consultation
(508) 679-6079
www.rodriguesaccounting.com
Delken dry
cleaning
10% Off
(508) 679-0999
empire hyundai,
inc.
10% Off Parts & Labor
15% Off All Accessories
Pur chased at the Parts
Counter or Service Desk
(508) 673-7646
Gaspar’s
Landscaping
10% Off
(508) 677-3502
www.gasparslandscaping.com
General fitness
20% Off All Memberships
(508) 677-4933
Jay’s wine and
spirits
10% Off Regular Priced
Items (Excludes Sale Items,
Beer and Tobacco
www.jayswineandspirits.com
Labor ready
$50 Off First Order
(508) 672-6300
www.laborready.com
Lazer gate
10% Off
(508) 730-1230
www.lazergate.com
mallard printing
Up to 10% Off
(Ask for Chamber Discount)
(508) 675-5733
www.mallardprinting.com
Meganet
Communications
10% Off, One Month Free
(508) 646-0030
www.meganet.com
Minuteman process
services
25% Off All Services
(508) 491-1000
www.minutemanprocessservices.
com
O’Brien Plumbing &
Heating, Co.
10% Off
(508) 679-3368
www.obriendplumbingandheating.com
Interactive
palette
5% Off Website Packages
(781) 930-3100
www.interactivepalette.com
Pawtucket red sox
Buy 25 Flex Tickets and Save
$25.00
(401) 724-7300
ww.pawsox.com
iReverse home
loans, llc
$500 Off Reverse Mortgage
Closing Costs
(508) 646-4351, contact
Mike Kennedy
Payroll Express
We Will Beat Competitor Pricing
(508) 679-1858
performance auto
Center
10% Off
(508) 675-4777
Radio Voz do
Emigrante
15% Off
(508) 678-9727
www.radiovozdoemigrante.com
remax, dawn rusin
$500 Off $100,000+ Closing
Costs
(508) 677-3629
Saber Tv
$50 Off Any $499 or More
Furniture Purchase
(508) 672-8603
www.sabertv.com
SECURED STAFFING
We Will Beat Our Competitor’s
Pricing
(508) 567-5083
www.secured-staffing.com
[email protected]
Somerset Chrysler
Dodge Jeep
10% Off Parts and Labor
(508) 675-1106
www.somersetautogroup.com
Somerset Decorating
10% Off
(508) 674-8596
www.SomersetDecorating.com
South end sunoco
20% Off All Labor Work
($100 Work Minimum)
2322 S. Main Street, Fall River, MA
Member Discount Program (continued)
sullivan tire & auto
Full Service Regular
OilChange$19.95
(508) 674-4068
www.sullivantire.com
SPINDLE CITY AUTO
GLASS
10% Off Any Service
(May not be combined with other
offers)
(508)677-3063
www.spindlecityautoglass.com
thinktech computer
Free 27- Point Network Audit
(508) 992-2541
www.thinktechonline.com
tnt cleaning services
Two Free Residential Rooms
Carpet Cleaned or 10% Off Any
Cleaning Service with a Contract
(508) 644-5010
www.tntcleaningma.com
town car travel
limousine
10% Off
(508) 379-9088
www.tntcleaningma.com
TransAnalysis
First Month Free
(508) 646-1000
www.transanalysis.com
FUN 107/ WBSM
25% Off Advertising for New
Clients, Townsquare Media
(508) 999-6690
Health
Boys & Girls Club
15% Off Senior Membership
(508)672-6340
www.fallriverbgc.org
Center for sight
$50 Off a Pair of Eyeglasses
$100 Off Radiesse Cosmetic
Treatment
(508) 730-2020
www.center-for-sight.com
eye health vision
centers
$500 Off Regular and
Customary Price
$100 Off Lowest Discounted
Price
(508) 673-2020
strive gymnastics &
Fitness, llc
10% Off
(508) 567-383074) 888-0050
www.blountfinefoods.com
Proud to be a
local business,
here to help local
businesses succeed!
“We’re making a difference.”
Fall River • Swansea • Somerset
Dartmouth • Fairhaven • New Bedford
Toll-Free 1-877-STANNES (782-6637)
StAnnes.com
Federally insured by NCUA
Two Guys Barber Shop
Save $2.00 on a $14 Regular
Priced Haircut
(508) 677-6717
4.66" x 5.26"
For more information on Chamber membership,
or to include your business in
the Chamber’s Member-to-Member Discount Program,
please contact a Chamber staff member at
(508) 676-8226
23
Business News
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Permit No. 46
Fall RIver, MA
Fall River Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry
200 Pocasset Street, Fall River, MA 02721-1585
(508) 676-8226
www.fallriverchamber.com
Current Resident or: