jan 2012

CHAMBER MISSIONTo serve the interests of member businesses while providing community leadership to ensure the economic advancement of the Metro South region.

CONTENTS

Calendar of Events 3

Good News 4

Renewing Members 10

New Members 10

Member Profiles 12

Patricia Williams & Christopher Cooney, page 5

Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister, page 2

Leading BusinessesLeading Communities

January2012

www.metrosouthchamber.com

Tom Pattavina, page 9

Brockton Sets Attractive Commercial Tax RateThe Metro South Chamber of Commerce recent-

ly testified before the Brockton City Council wheretax rates were set for the coming year. ChamberChairman, Peter Neville of Concord Foods andChamber President, Christopher Cooney werejoined by Mark Donahue of M. Donahue Associatesand Bill Callahan, Callahan Real Estate. Discussionfocused on a strategy of maintaining a competitivebalance between residential and commercial tax rateswhen compared to surrounding communities andsimilar sized gateway cities. “A growing commercialtax base helps offset taxes to residential homeowners.In order to achieve a healthy commercial tax base, taxrates in Brockton must be kept competitive.” said for-

Sponsored by:

Great Restaurants at 20thAnnual “Taste” Event

March 21, 2012

Join us at the next Good Morning Metro SouthBreakfast on Thursday, January 19 from 7:30am-

9:00am at the Shaw’s Center, 1Feinberg Way, Brockton. Thefeatured speaker is BrocktonMayor Linda Balzotti.

Linda Balzotti, first femaleMayor of Brockton, served as aBrockton Councilor for morethan a decade, providing strongconstituent services, advocacyfor neighborhoods and a strong

focus on fiscal restraint. A lifelong Brocktonian, shealso served as a member of the Brockton PlanningBoard and as a resident activist.

Linda was elected as Ward 4 Councilor in 1998. Sheworked with the City Council to ensure a multi-mil-lion dollar restoration to Brockton’s WastewaterTreatment Plan; built a coalition to defeat the pro-posed reopening of the BFI Landfill, and fought forthe construction of the Brightfields.

In addition to serving four terms as a ward coun-cilor, two terms as a councilor-at-large and as CouncilPresident in 2001, Linda was a former legislative aideto Representative Christine Canavan, and wasemployed as the Public Information Officer atBridgewater State College.

The Breakfast is sponsored by Brockton’s Promise,Crescent Credit Union and Comcast Business

Next Breakfast Meeting to Feature Mayor BalzottiThursday, January 19, 2012

Mayor Linda Balzotti

Class. Started in 2003, Brockton’s Promise focuseson 5 “promises”, caring adults, safe places, a healthy

start, effective education andthe opportunity to help others.The Brockton 180 initiative

encourages students, their parents and the com-munity to work together to promote school atten-dance as a key to graduation and life success. Formore information, visit brocktonspromise.org.

Crescent Credit Union, founded in 1919, serves

Save The Date: February 15, 2012Good Morning Metro South

Featuring:Dave Andelman,Chief Executive andFounder of Phan-tom Gourmet. Alsospeaking: Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister, President & CEO ofThe Massachusetts Life SciencesCenter.

See page 2 for more information

See page 8 for more information

Chamber Selected as Regional Economic Development PartnerMassachusetts Names Eleven StatewideThe Metro South Chamber of Commerce was recently chosen as one of eleven new RegionalEconomic Development Organizations (REDO’s) statewide. The designation caps a year of region-al activities by the Chamber designed to generate more comprehensive thinking and action by thefourteen or so communities that comprise the region. Transportation, water supply, and wastewaterservices are a few areas that may benefit from regional cooperation and the resulting economies ofscale. The Chamber will meet with state officials to confirm priorities in January. Several meetingswith area business and community organizations will follow.

mer Chamber Chairman Mark Donahue. TheBrockton City Council concurred and set a com-mercial tax rate at just under $30 per $1,000.assessed value. Councilors Tom Monahan, TomBrophy, Paul Studenski, Chris Macmillan, TimCruise and Todd Petti all voted for the more attrac-tive rate. “This new tax rate is part of a strategy tokeep Brockton attractive to businesses. A strongbusiness base is in the best interest of all citizens ofBrockton. As the hub of business south of Boston,Brockton benefits when businesses locate andgrow here. Setting a competitive commercial taxrate can make a real difference to the future of thecity.”, said Chamber CEO, Christopher Cooney.

Shaw’s Center Open for Business!

report Abington • Avon • Bridgewater Brockton • Canton • East Bridgewater • Easton • Halifax • Hanover • Hanson • Holbrook • Norwell • Randolph • Rockland • Sharon • Stoughton • West Bridgewater •Whitman

The Metro South Chamber ofCommerce is looking forward toseveral upcoming events to beheld at the Shaw’s ConferenceCenter in Brockton. The Shaw’sCenter is conveniently locatednear Brockton High School closeto Belmont Street and route 24. Itcan accommodate groups of allsizes and offers a wide variety ofmenu options. The Chamber ispleased the Shaw’s Center willhost the Chamber’s 20th AnnualTaste of Metro South in March,and the 17th Annual SmallBusiness Awards Program andthe Annual Small Business Expoin May. The Shaw’s Center isopen for business. To find moreinformation about hosting yourupcoming event or meeting atthe Shaw’s Center, contactDebbie Falasca at [email protected].

Exciting Trip to CubaOffered, Sign-Up Now!

More on page 9

More on page 6

2 ACTION Report January 2012 www.metrosouthchamber.com

U.S. Small Business Programs OfferedAttend a FREE SBA workshop designed to highlight the

various SBA programs and services that are available toprospective or current entrepreneurs who need assistance instarting or expanding their business. General informationwill be provided on the following:• SCORE- Counselors to America’s Small Business• MSBDC- Mass Small Businesses Development Centers• BIC’s- Business Resource Centers• SBA Guaranty Loan Programs: 7(a), Micro Loans, Patriot & SBA Express

Loans & 504-Project Loan Development• Government Contracting Opportunities: 8(a) business Development,

HUBZones (Historically Underutilized Business Zones), Small Disadvantaged Business, and Surety Bonding (when applicable - 2 yrs in-business experience required)

• Disaster AssistanceThe workshop will be held at CareerWorks, 34 School Street, Brockton from 2

- 4 pm on the third Wednesday of each month. The next workshops will be heldon January 18 and February 15, 2012. Contact CareerWorks at 508.513.3400 for fur-ther workshop information.

Buying a Franchise, Is It For You?

The Metro SouthChamber of Commerce ishappy to announce theupcoming workshop, Buying aFranchise, Is It For You? This workshopwill be held at the Chamber, 60 SchoolStreet, Brockton, on January 25, 2012from 8-10 am.

Business franchising offers manyopportunities; this form of ownershiphas helped many entrepreneurs getstarted in business and succeed. A well-known brand name, a clear businessmodel to follow and mentors on handto give advice may be that franchising isan ideal solution for you.

Learn from our franchising industryexpert Mr. John Rogozenski, a BusinessCounselor from SCORE who hashelped hundreds of individuals in eval-uating the franchise industry. He hasbeen associated with the franchise

industry for more than 35 yearsand has worked for nationalretail concepts including

Dunkin Donuts and Baskin-Robbins.He was personally responsible fordeveloping over 300 new facilities andwas a senior development executive formany years.

The content is designed to provideyou with what you need to knowabout deciding if franchising is the rightvehicle for you, selecting a brand,financing and the due diligenceprocess. The instructor brings years ofexperience in all aspects of the franchis-ing industry. Attendees are encour-aged to bring their specific questions tothe workshop.

This workshop is free to attend.Reserve your space today by calling508.586.0500 x 225 or [email protected].

Wednesday, January 25, 2012, 8:00 am - 10:00 am

The South EasternEconomic Develop-ment (SEED) Corp-ora-tion will hold free basicbusiness workshops aimed at assistingpotential and existing entrepreneurs. Session 1: “Learn the Fundamentals inPlanning, Preparing For, andFinancing Your Business” is gearedtoward helping potential entrepre-neurs evaluate and understand thefundamentals of owning one’s ownbusiness. Information on how to getstarted, where and how to get financ-ing and the loan application processwill be presented. Attendees will alsobe provided with a free guide to writ-ing a business plan and other materials. Session 2: “Understanding the

Purpose of FinancialStatements and HowThey Can HelpDetermine the Health of

Your Business” is focused on helpingattendees understand a balance sheet,income statement, and cash flow state-ment. The workshop also explainshow a small business owner can antic-ipate financial needs in order to operatehis/her business more efficiently.

Please call SEED Corporation at 508-822-1020, for more information or toregister for a free workshop. Breakfastand lunch will also be provided free ofcharge to attendees.

For more information on SEED and itsprograms, please call the SEED office at508-822-1020 or visit www.seedcorp.com.

Chamber to Host Business Plan WorkshopsThursday, January 12, 9 am -12 pm < (Session I) >

Thursday, January 12, 1 pm - 4 pm < (Session II) >

Metro South Chamber of Commerce, 60 School Street, Brockton, MA

February Breakfast to Feature Phantom Gourmet

Join us at Good Morning Metro SouthBreakfast on February 15, 2012 from7:30am-9:00am at the Martin Instituteon the Stonehill College campus.

Dave Andelmanwas born in Bostonand grew up inLynnfield, MA. He'sboth an attorney andan M.B.A. In the sameyear that he begangraduate school,Dave startedPhantom Gourmet,

Inc. The show is now on myTV38,WBZ4, and 96.9FM in Boston, andCW28 in Providence. The companyproduces several major events eachyear, including the BBQ Beach Party.He recently created the Restaurantand Business Alliance, a trade associa-tion employing a full-time lobbyist topass laws that will encourage hiring

and investment, andstop laws that woulddo the opposite.

Dr. SusanWindham-Bannisteris the first Presidentand CEO of theMassachusetts LifeSciences Center, aquasi-public organi-zation charged with

administering the 10-year $1 billion lifesciences initiative enacted by theMassachusetts Legislature in June2008. The Life Sciences Center is thehub for all sectors of the state’s life sci-

ences community– biotechnology,pharmaceuticals,medical devices,medical diagnos-tics and bioinfor-matics.

The Center’s portfolio of invest-ments is promoting economic devel-opment, catalyzing innovation,strengthening Massachusetts’ globalleadership position in the life sciences,and accelerating the commercializa-tion of promising treatments, thera-pies and cures. Under Dr. Windham-Bannister’s leadership, in just threeyears the Center has invested $218million, leveraged another $700 mil-lion in matching investment capital,and created over 7,000 new life sci-ences jobs in the Commonwealth.

This event is being sponsored bythe Stonehill College Martin Institute.The Martin Institute seeks to preparethe students of Stonehill College forleadership as active citizens in serviceto an improved human community.The Institute challenges students toexplore the vital issues of public policyand social issues.

The cost to attend is $25 for mem-bers and $35 for future-members andincludes breakfast and networkingopportunities. If you would like toregister, please call Kim Prosper at508.586.0500 x 231, email [email protected] or reg-ister online at events.met-rosouthchamber.com.

Dave Andelman

Dr. Susan Windham-Bannister

Sponsored by:

Wednesday, February 15, 2012, Stonehill College

Business Start-Up: Basic ConceptsThis workshop

focuses on initialstartup business concepts and pro-vides guidance in:• How to research your idea• Define your market• Define your competition &• Forms of business ownership The workshop will also briefly reviewthe various forms of business owner-ship and the benefits of each.

At the conclusion of the workshopyou will be able to identify your targetmarkets, describe your products andservices, and begin to collect competi-tive information.

You will have an initial feasibilityplan to determine if your concept isviable or not. Bring your ideas and

any information you have collectedfor your startup business to thisworkshop.

Join us on February 9 from 8am-10am at the Metro South Chamberof Commerce, 60 School Street,Brockton.

The workshop leader is JohnRogozenski, a SCORE volunteerand business mentor. SCORE pro-vides free counseling sessions on atthe Chamber offices weekdays.

This workshop is free to attend,but registration is required. To regis-ter, contact Lisa Keene at508.586.0500 x 225, [email protected] register at events.met-rosouthchamber.com.

www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report January 2012 3

Note: All meetings are held at the Metro South Chamber Office or Metro South business Assistance Center (BAC) unless other- wise indicated.

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Networking at Events is one of the most effective ways to grow your business!

JANUARY Calendar4 Ambassador Meeting

12 SEED Workshop

16 Martin Luther King Jr. Day - Chamber Closed

18 Executive Committee

19 Good Morning Metro SouthThe Shaw’s Center, 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton

20 Government Affairs

25 SCORE Franchising Workshop

Coming UpFebruary

1 Ambassador Meeting

1 Board Meeting

9 SCORE Business Start-Up Workshop


15 Good Morning Metro SouthMartin Institute, Stonehill College, Easton

20 President’s Day - Chamber Closed

Save the DateMarch

7 Ambassador Meeting


13 Executive Committee

21 Taste of Metro SouthThe Shaw’s Center, 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton

28 Board of Directors

Newsletter Designed by Alison van Dam

Metro South Chamber of Commerce Sixty School Street, Brockton, MA 02301-4087 tel: 508 586-0500/fax: 508 587-1340 [email protected] www.metrosouthchamber.com

Photography by Rich Morganwww.richmorganphotography.com

ACTION Report Volume 12 - Issue 1(USPS-410630) is published monthly except for combinedJuly/August for $5.00 per year by the Metro South Chamber ofCommerce, Sixty School Street, Brockton, MA 02301-4087.Periodical Postage Paid at Brockton, MA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Action Report, Sixty School Street, Brockton, MA 02301-4087

The Metro South Chamber of Commerce is solely responsiblefor the editorial content of this publication.

The Chamber wishes to assure our members of our intentionto provide physically challenged participants equal access toall programs. If you or your employees have special needs inthis area, please let us know by calling the Chamber at 508-586-0500 at least 48 hours in advance.

CHAMBER MISSION: To serve the interestsof member businesses while providing communityleadership to ensure the economic advancement ofthe Metro South region.

ACCREDITEDCHAMBER OF COMMERCE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

Chair of the BoardPeter NevilleConcord Foods

President and CEOChristopher CooneyMetro South Chamber of Commerce

Chair-ElectWilliam MorseMutual Bank

TreasurerJohn McGovernRodman & Rodman, PC, CPA’s

Vice Chair Community AffairsAndrea PapadopoulosArista Associates, Inc.

Vice Chair Economic DevelopmentSteve HallPrism Energy Services

Vice Chair Government AffairsSusan JossBrockton Neighborhood Health Center

Vice Chair Membership DevelopmentPatricia WilliamsHarborOne Credit Union

Immediate Past ChairScott SanbornTD Bank

DIRECTORS

Jane Callahan - HR AlternativesRichard Colon -Verizon CommunicationsLoretta DeGrazia - East Coast PetroleumPeter Dello Russo - Bridgewater Savings BankFrancis Dillon - Stonehill CollegeKim Hollon - Signature Healthcare

Jeffrey Liebman - Good Samaritan Medical ServicesMarc Lucas - Attorney at LawDr. Dana Mohler Faria -Bridgewater State UniversityJim Murphy LSP- TRACEY EnvironmentalGerald Nadeau- Rockland Trust CompanyJonathan “Jay” Pike - Sharkansky LLPBill Scanlon -Community Newspapers (The Enterprise)Andrew SchwartzLaw Office of Andrew H. Schwartz, LLCLarry Siskind -Siskind and Siskind Attorneys at LawArt Sullivan -ConsultantPeter Vlaco - Brophy & Philips Company, Inc.Dr. Charles Wall -Massasoit Community College

CHAMBER STAFF 508-586-0500 Front Desk x 221

Christopher CooneyPresident and CEO x 223

Kimberly ProsperProgram Director x 231

Kerry SullivanFinance x 230

Alison van DamDirector of Communications x 222

Lisa KeeneBusiness Development x 225

John NestiMember Services x 229

Kathleen LynchConnecting Activities - Internships x 227


GOODNewsBrockton Day Nursery Open HouseBrockton Day Nursery, an institute of childcare in Brockton for over 117 years invites youto our Open House on Thursday, January19th from 9AM-12PM and from 5PM-7PM.The Open House will be held at 243 CrescentStreet in Brockton, MA 02302. Our child carecenter offers full day care for children ages 0-13. We are a fully inclusive program servingall of our full day students breakfast, lunchand two snacks. Our Infant/Toddler programincludes formula, diapers, wipes and babyfood. Brockton Day. Tours of the center willbe provided along with a chance to meet withour teaching and administrative staff.Refreshments will be served. Vouchers areaccepted and financial assistance is available.Please contact, Patti Plummer-Wilson,Education Director, at 508-588-2700 with anyquestions or to register to attend.

Steward Network Community Choice InsuranceSteward Health Care System LLC and TuftsHealth Plan announced that theMassachusetts Division of Insurance (DOI)has approved the new Steward CommunityChoice limited network insurance productfor Massachusetts-based businesses. WithSteward Community Choice employers canoffer their employees quality health care cov-erage at an affordable price. In this plan, pre-miums range from 15 % to 30% less thanmany of Tufts Health Plan’s full networkproduct plan designs. The new, lower costinsurance product is now available for pur-chase for groups with an effective date ofJanuary 1, 2012. Steward CommunityChoice offers comprehensive coveragewith two plan designs: A plan that includeslow copayments for physician visits and nodeductible, as well as a plan that includes a$1,000 individual deductible and a $2,000family deductible plan. Currently, theSteward Community Choice network con-sists of 10 acute care hospitals and over1,400 physicians in Eastern Mass. All healthcare services that cannot be delivered bythe Steward network will be delivered byMassachusetts General Hospital (MGH)and Brigham and Women’s Hospital(BWH) subject to an authorization process.Pediatric services will be provided by bothSteward and certain Partners affiliatedpediatricians. Tertiary-level pediatric carewill be provided by the MGH for Children.Tufts Health Plan will provide administra-tive support, credentialing and claims pro-cessing for the new product.

Martin Luther King CelebrationMassasoit Community College to hold itsannual Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration,Monday, January 16, 2012 from 2-4 p.m. inthe Buckley Performing Arts Center on theBrockton Campus. Admission is free and allare invited to attend. Light refreshments willbe served. The guest speaker will be JamesM. Barrows, Associate Director ofCommunity Relations, Harvard University

and Member of the Massasoit Board ofTrustees. With performances by the MaryE. Baker School Chorus and the LyricalAmbition Magnificent Purity. For moreinformation call 508-588-9100 x1309.

Reilly & Company New HiresReilly & Company has added three newtax and audit professionals to its staff:Karina Israyelyan has joined the firm as aSenior Accountant in the Accounting &Auditing Department. Israyelyan hasindustry experience in employee benefitplans, nonprofits, developers, manufactur-ing and construction. She was previouslyemployed by Prather Kalman P.C. inHouston, Texas. Christopher Ryan hasjoined the firm as a Tax Supervisor in theTax Department. Ryan has extensive taxexperience with individuals, partnerships,estate planning, trusts, S-corporations andtax planning. He was previously employedby CCR LLP and Pricewaterhouse Coopersin Boston. Clifford Thifault has joined thefirm as a Staff Accountant. He is a 2007graduate of Bentley University with a bach-elor’s degree in accounting. Thifault previ-ously worked at Hill Holiday as a staffaccountant.

Peixoto, Newly Accredited Estate PlannerBridgewater Savings Bank congratulatesRobert Peixoto, Senior Vice President &Senior Wealth Management Officer, on hisrecent designation as an ACCREDITEDESTATE PLANNER® by the NationalAssociation of Estate Planners & Councils(NAEPC). The ACCREDITED ESTATEPLANNER (AEP) designation is a graduatelevel specialization in estate planning,obtained in addition to already recognizedprofessional credentials within the variousdisciplines of estate planning. It is awardedby the NAEPC to recognize estate-plan-ning professionals who meet stringentrequirements of experience, knowledge,education, professional reputation andcharacter.

Krystel Love of BAWIB PromotedKrystel Love has recently been promoted tothe position of Director of Youth Services forthe Brockton Area Workforce InvestmentBoard (BAWIB). Since joining BAWIB in2009, Ms. Love has served as Coordinator ofYouth Services, and was instrumental indeveloping an entrepreneurial program foryouth in the region. Her role in this positionis to provide technical assistance to BAWIB’syouth vendors on federal grants, as well asto coordinate grant programs for WorkReadiness and Youth Employment oppor-tunities. She also serves as liaison to theBAWIB Youth Council.

HarborOne Named SBA Lender of the YearThe Small Business Administration (SBA)announced that HarborOne Credit Union,Brockton MA, was designated as Credit

Union Lender of the Year for the state ofMassachusetts. This is the second straightyear HarborOne has received this recogni-tion. The award was presented by theSBA based upon HarborOne’s performancein originating 7(a) loans for the periodOctober 1, 2010 through September 30, 2011.SBA 7(a) loans are originated by the lenderand guaranteed by the FederalGovernment. Of all the lenders producingthese loans, HarborOne ranked 8th in num-ber of loans and 8th in total dollar volumeexceeding the production of many largerbanks.

Money Management Program for SeniorsOld Colony Elder Services (OCES) theBrockton based regional elder servicesagency serving seniors, their families andcaregivers throughout greater Brocktonand Plymouth county, has recentlyreceived a generous donation to theirMoney Management Program from theRockland Trust Company. MoneyManagement volunteers who can helpseniors manage their household financesare needed to keep this essential programoperating. Rockland Trust recently donat-ed $1,000 to OCES specifically for theMoney Management Program. Yet,Money Management volunteers are need-ed in all 23 towns that OCES serves, par-ticularly in the towns of Plymouth, Carver,Abington, Whitman and Brockton. MoneyManagement volunteers help seniors bal-ance their checkbooks, develop budgetsand pay bills. They also make home visits atleast once a month to help keep track of anelder's income and expenses.For more infor-mation or to become a MassachusettsMoney Management Program volunteer,contact Brenda Carrens, OCES' Outreachand Volunteer Coordinator at (508) 584-1561extension 252.

ARC Children’s Holiday PartyMore than 60 families attended the recentChildren's Holiday Party for members ofARC of Greater Plymouth. The event,which was sponsored by Damon, Topham& Company, and was held at the Tavernon the Green in Marshfield. The childrenenjoyed a wonderful meal and gifts pre-sented to them by Santa. After dinner, "BigRyan", a local Plymouth storyteller, enter-tained the children with his charming dogpuppets, songs and dances. For the thirdconsecutive year, Borders book store inKingston donated books to be given to thechildren as well. According to Jill O'Reilly,Community Support Coordinator at ARC,"The ARC party is a safe environment forthe children and a setting where they canbe themselves. We heard parents commenton how this year's party was one of the bestones we've held."

Massasoit Partners with More Than WordsMassasoit Community College has part-

nered with More Than Words to recyclebooks, audio books, music CDs DVDs andvideo games on its Brockton campus.More Than Words is a local non-profit thatempowers youth who are in foster care,court involved, homeless or out of schoolto take charge of their lives by takingcharge of a business. All donations are taxdeductible. For more information, visitwww.massasoit.mass.edu/green_team/index.cfm or call 508-588-9100 x 1377.

Current Fuller Craft Museum ExhibitsCurrent Exhibitions:Michael Cooper, A Sculptural Odyssey,1968 - 2011: 11.12.11 - 5.13.12Traditions and Innovations: Fuller CraftCollects (Permanent Collection): ongoingFresh Figurines: 10.8.11 - 2.5.12Mark Davis: Icarus 4.9.11 - 4.15.12Holiday Shop 11.19.11 -1.20.12The Fuller Craft Museum is located at 455 Oak Street, Brockton, MA 02301.Admission is free for members, $8 foradults and $5 for Seniors and Students.Children under 12 free. Wednesday 5:00 -9:00 pm free. Open Tues. - Sun., 10:00 am- 5:00 pm. For more information, visitwww.fullercraft.org.

Brockton Symphony Orchestra ConcertSunday, January 22: 3:00 P.M. BROCK-TON SYMPHONY presents a CHAM-BER MUSIC CONCERT, in an intimatesetting at The Christ Congregation-al Church, 1350 Pleasant St BrocktonMA.. A musical sandwich spanningthree centuries. Mozart and Ewazen onthe ends and Brahms and Mussorgskyin the middle. The concert featuresmany of the fine regular players in theBrockton Symphony, as well as a sec-ond-place winning contestant in theFeinberg competition, playing the vio-lin part in a Brahms piano trio.Tickets$15 for adults. Children under 12 only$5.Look forward to a symphonic con-cert entitled "Life" on Sunday February26,2012, a free family concert onSunday, March 25 and a final sym-phonic concert entitled "Love", on May6, 2012. For more information, visitwww.brocktonsymphony.org or call508-588-3841.

Images of America, Brockton RevisitedThe release of Images of America,Brockton Revisited is scheduled forJanuary 30. To celebrate the HistoricalSociety is planning a beer tasting/foodevent to be held with live music andother to be determined activities. Theevent will be held at First Lutheran inour Fruth Center, 900 Main Street,Brockton on Saturday, February 11from 6-10. For more information or ifyou are a vendor and would like to par-ticipate, contact James Benson at 508-586-9021.

Celebrate the great things going on!Members send your Good News to

[email protected]

New U.S. Department of Commerce Boston Representative MaryAnn Burke recently met with Christopher Cooney, ChamberPresident & CEO and Amilcar Monteiro, Bridgewater StateUniversity Graduate student from Cape Verde. Discussionsfocused on the services provided by the U.S. Department ofCommerce to the business community. Christopher Cooney willtravel to Cape Verde in January with Amilcar Monteiro, a formerstaff person, at the Cape Verde Chamber of Commerce. A trademission is planned for April, 2012.


The Metro South Connecting ActivitiesPartnership spotlights youth involved in struc-tured internships with local employers. To learnmore about this and other competitive workforceprograms, contact Kathleen Lynch at theChamber by calling (508) 586-0500 ext. 227 orvia e-mail [email protected].

“Students Karen Dempsey, Alex Winnett,and Kyle Kane are busy studying tax lawand preparing for the IRS certificationtesting. As seniors, they are enrolled inthe Community Service Learning courseat Whitman-Hanson. The first step was tomeet daily for a tax course. Now these stu-dents are preparing for the IRS testing.Once they pass all of the testing, the stu-dents will volunteer to complete taxreturns for the low to moderate incomeresidents of our communities with a focuson assisting the elderly. Mrs. Nelson, their

TAX-AIDE supervisor, told us how proud she is of their commitment and dedi-cation. “This is not easy material to learn. It is impressive that, as high schoolstudents, they are not afraid of this challenge.” Each has a work-based learningcontract. It outlines the goals and expectations for participation.

- Nina Consolini, Whitman-Hanson Regional High School

Whitman-Hanson Tax Law Teacher Lydia Nelson with students Karen Dempsey, Alex Winnett and Kyle Kane.

“Since 1984, the Face Place has been pro-viding spa services to lovely women onthe South Shore. It has been a wonder-ful journey for me and now I get toshare it with Bridget O’Leary, a studentfrom Whitman-Hanson regional highSchool who is learning what it takes towork in an environment helping clientswith skin problems, aging and productselections. Bridget works as reception-ist at times booking appointments, solv-ing problems, and restocking products.

She is an inquisitive young lady who questions the staff about skin and com-ments about her enjoyment in working in a soothing environment. There is alot to learn in this blossoming industry and Bridget is very open minded andready to learn. Due to the quality of our treatments, clients leave with greatimprovements in their skin health and a greater knowledge about caring fortheir skin. It is a pleasure to be chosen to mentor young women in this rapidlygrowing industry.”

- Louise Alibrandi, The Face Place

Louise Alibrandi of The Face Place located in Hanoverwith Whitman-Hanson student intern Bridget O’Leary

Cafe Siciliano Opens at Joe Angelo’s, BrocktonLongtime Brocktonians

and friends for over 40years, Joe Angelo andWally Siciliano arepleased to announce theopening of Cafe Sicilianoat Joe Angelo’s, a fullservice restaurant servinglunch and take-out everyday and 1st class ItalianCafe style dining onWednesday, Thursdayand Friday nights. WallySiciliano is no stranger tothe restaurant business.Prior to Cafe Siciliano, he operatedSiciliano's Pronto Cucina on PerkinsAvenue and Wally’s Restaurantwhich was housed at multiple loca-tions in Brockton, including Joe

Angelo’s building in thelate 1970’s. “Wally takespride in his food andprepares everythingfrom scratch. This com-munity is aware of histalent in the kitchen sothe addition of CafeSiciliano at Joe Angelo’sis a win-win for every-one,” said Joe Angelo,owner of the oldeststanding building onMain Street. Both menreflected on memories of

the good old days in Brockton and theirsincere hope of witnessing a revitalizedDowntown. Cafe Sicilano at Joe Angelo’sis located on the corner of Main andCrescent Street in Brockton.

HarborOne Supports Business Assistance

Wally Siciliano and Joe Angelo

Avon Industrial Park Association

Belmont Cleaners Uses Greener Products

New Metro South Chamber BlogIn addition to utiliz-

ing Twitter, Facebook,LinkedIn, Flickr andYouTube, the Chambernow has a new blog.The blog contains arti-cles related to advoca-cy, supporting smallbusiness, economicdevelopment andawards and honors.Visit metrosouthcham-ber.com/blog and sub-scribe for the most cur-rent news.

Department of Commerce Meets With Chamber

Chamber Board Member Patricia Williamsand Ambassador Chair Friend Weiler ofHarborOne Credit Union recently awardedthe Chamber’s Foundation, $10,000 forsupport of the Metro South BusinessAssistance Center. Chamber of CommercePresident & CEO Christopher Cooney accept-ed the check at HarborOne Headquarters inBrockton.

The Metro South Chamber of Commerce andthe Avon Industrial Park Association havebeen working collaboratively over the pastyear to focus attention on improvementsneeded at the Park, including the addition ofsewer treatment services.

Belmont Cleaners, located at 92 TorreyStreet in Brockton, has recently imple-mented a new cleaner, greener cleaningsystem, System K4. Bill and Sophia Lucas,owners of Belmont Cleaners, are certifiedin this new process. They welcome newcustomers to experience the new greenercleaner system. For more information, callBill or Sophia at 508-580-4610.

Conversation Focuses on Cape Verde


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Chance of a Lifetime: Visit Cuba This Spring

Explore the Amalfi CoastOct. 30 - Nov. 7, 2012

Whether it is culture, gastronomy, cut-ting edge design, sybaritic pleasures orsimply the art of doing nothing and soak-ing up the atmosphere, Italy is a countryfor lovers of all that is good in life. TheAmalfi Coast’s mixture of history andnature are yours to discover from theCathedral of Amalfi, to the villas in Ravelloand the numerous churches. From Galli’sIsles in front of Positana to the EmeraldGrotto, near Conca Dei Marini, the AmalfiCoast will captivate you with its warmthand beauty.

Join the Metro South Chamber on this 9day tour. $2,399 includes hotels, meals,flight, transfers and transportation to andfrom JFK, tours, guides and motor coaches.Optional 2 night Rome extension offered.

For more information, contact Alison,508.586.0500 x 222, [email protected]. Download the itiner-ary at metrosouthchamber.com/ pdf/amalfi-itin.pdf. Deposit Due April 1, 2012.

Travel to Cuba with the Metro South Chamber, May 3- 11, 2012. Highlightsinclude: Old Havana, Cathedral de la Havana, Museo Dine Arts, Pinar DelRio Vinales, Prehistoric Painted Caves, Cienfuegos, Jagua Castle, Trinidad,Sugar Mill Valley, Partagas Cigar Factory and more.

Immerse yourself in the rich Cuban culture as you visit the La Merketa deHavana, Las Terrazas Cooperative Village, learn Salsa Dancing, visit the TraditionalPottery Studio, the Bay of Pigs Museum, Santeria Religious Center, Cuban LiteracyMuseum and Cuban School/Day care.

$3,399 includes 4 and 5 star accommodations in Miami, Havana andTrinidad, round trip airfare from Miami, taxes, travel visa, health insurance,19 meals, attraction admissions, professional English speaking tour guide,transfers and deluxe motorcoach transportation.

For more information, contact Alison van Dam at 508.586.0500 x 222, [email protected], or download the informational packetand itinerary at metrosouthchamber.com/pdf/cuba.pdf. $500 deposit dueFebruary 3.

Chamber Explorations has been issued a specific license by The Department of theTreasury, Office of Foreign assets Control (OFAC), which authorizes registered guestsof our programs to visit Cuba legally. There are no applications to complete.

FREE INFORMATION SESSIONThere will be a free informational session on Tuesday, January 31, 6:00 pm atthe West Bridgewater Public Library, 80 Howard Street, W. Bridgewater.Bring your questions, see images, and learn more.

May 3 - 11, 2012

* Prices includes roundtrip airfare, transportation to and from JFK, most meals, 4and 5 star accommodations, deluxe bus tours, fluent English-speaking tour guidesand entrance to attractions. $300 deposit due April 15. There will be an optional tripto Xi’an to see the Terra Cotta Soliders for an additional $500.

For more information and full itinerary, contact Alison van Dam at 508.586.0500x 222 or email [email protected]

BeijingVisit Tiananmen Square and the Templeof Heaven- built in 1420 A.D., where theemperors prayed to heaven for a goodharvest. Sightseeing includes the PalaceMuseum (9,999 rooms, known as theForbidden City), the Summer Palace,Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill,Seventeen-Arch Bridge and MarbleBoat. Take a Tour bus excursion to climbthe Great Wall and see the 13 MingTombs (one of which is fully excavatedand open for exploration). SuzhouSightseeing includes the LingeringGarden, Tiger Hill and Hanshan Temple.Visit the National Embroidery Instituteto see silk embroidery - an importantlocal craft with 1,000 year history.

HangzhouEnjoy a morning boatcruise on West Lake withrelaxing stop over at jewel-like pagodas and tea hous-es. Visit to the centuries oldLingyin Temple, with the main featureof the 64.3 ft-high camphor-woodcarved Buddha. Also, visit theEconomic Development Zone ofHangzhou.ShanghaiSightseeing includes the Yu Garden, amaze of pavilions, ponds, rocky works,and over arching trees. Visit to theBund, a famous waterfront park.Business visit to the Pudong EconomicDevelopment Zone. Also, enjoy a visitto the Shanghai Carpet Mill.

Discover what over 250 travelers in the region have seen and explored in the Chamber’s 4th Annual Trip to China


Add RadarFrog to your Direct Mailcampaign for 3 months for just $75

For more details callThe Patriot Ledger 617-786-7180

The Enterprise 508-638-5580

Metro South Staycation - Wonderful Winter Fun

Bella’s Pizzeria II Seafood & Grille319 Plymouth Street, HalifaxBelle Epoque Caribbean Cafe & Bakery793 Crescent Street, BrocktonBertucci’s Brockton1285 Belmont Street, BrocktonBurrito Wraps, Mexican Grill688 Crescent Street, BrocktonCameron's On The Green436 Oak St., E. BridgewaterCape Cod Cafe, Inc.979 Main St., BrocktonChili’s Grill & Bar726 W. Center St., W. BridgewaterChristo's, Inc.782 Crescent St., BrocktonGeorge’s Cafe228 Belmont Street, BrocktonGood Days Restaurant, Inc.99 So. Main St., W. BridgewaterGourmet Cafe245 Main St., BrocktonHardy’s Fine Food & Catering740 Main St., W. BridgewaterHungry Coyote1753 Main Street, BrocktonJoe Angelo’s Cafe & Deli13 Crescent Street, Brockton

Carousel Family Fun Center (Rollerskating)1055 Auburn Street, WhitmanThe Charlie Horse Restaurant674 Old W. Ctr St., W. BridgewaterTimber Lanes, Inc.459 Bedford St., AbingtonWestgate Lanes and Pub64 Westgate Dr., Brockton

Brockton Historical Society Museum216 N. Pearl St., BrocktonBrockton Symphony OrchestraPO Box 1407, BrocktonFuller Craft Museum455 Oak St., BrocktonHenson Jackson Art Gallery2 Canton Street, StoughtonThe Children's Museum in EastonPO Box 417, North Easton

Eat at a Chamber Member Restaurant

(781) 293-8788

(508) 580-0020

(508) 584-3080

(508) 427-0018

(781) 447-7888

(508) 583-9420

(508) 427-9906

(508) 588-4200

(508) 588-4231

(508) 584-0077

(508) 580-0966

(508) 588-8838

(508) 580-9888

(508) 588-8331

(781) 857-1286

(508) 583-7252

(781) 878-0218

(508) 583-1296

(508) 583-1039

(508) 588-3841

(508) 588-6000

(781) 297-5220

(508) 230-3789

Andre Robere Salon & Day Spa285 Washington Street, N. EastonEagle Breath Healing50 Oliver Street, N. EastonMakeovers Salon & Spa574 Washington St., S. EastonTranquil Escape Day Spa832 Crescent St., Brockton

(508) 230-8394

(508) 331-0730

(508) 238-2201

(508) 427-6399

Asiaf Skating702 Belmont St., BrocktonBridgewater Ice Arena20 Bedford Pk, BridgewaterRockland Ice Rink599 Summer St., Rockland

Hoyts Cinemas: Sharon 8111 S. Main St., SharonShowcase Cinemas13 Mazzeo Dr., RandolphYour Neighborhood Theatre225 Bedford St., E. Bridgewater

(508) 583-6804

(508) 279-0600

(781) 878-7500

(781) 784-9300

(781) 963-5600

(508) 378-3010

Blue Hills4001 Washington St., Canton (781) 828-5070

Go Bowling or Play at the Arcade

Visit a Museum or See a Concert

Relax with a Massage

For more recreation and business information, look for the 2012 Chamber Book for Business

Glide at the Ice Rink

Catch a Movie

Ride the Slopes

Legal Sea Foods250 Granite Street, BraintreeMcGuiggan’s Pub546 Washington St.,WhitmanMia Regazza268 Washington St., WhitmanPanera Bread 1301 Belmont Street, BrocktonStonebridge Cafe1285 Belmont St., BrocktonStoneforge10 Roosevelt Circle, S. EastonSupreme House of Pizza376 Centre St., BrocktonTamboo Restaurant282 Main St., BrocktonTexas Roadhouse124 Westgate Dr., BrocktonThe Charlie Horse Restaurant674 Old W. Ctr. St., W. BridgewaterTrio Cafe12 Temple St., WhitmanTutto Bene/Pasta Bene1050 Pearl St., BrocktonVenus Cafe, Inc.47 South Ave., WhitmanX & O Restaurant217 Washington St., Stoughton

(781) 356-3070

(781) 447-7333

(781) 871-5800

(508) 587-1520

(508) 584-5200

(508) 238-0550

(508) 588-0044

(508) 584-8585

(508) 427-6244

(508) 583-7252

(781) 447-1064

(508) 583-1515

(781) 447-9072

(781) 344-1800

Economic Forecast Presented to Chamber

Christine Karavites, Proteas Consulting; Michael Goodman, University of Massachusetts,Dartmouth; Charlie Hickey, CareerWorks and Interviewer, Christopher Kenney, St. Joseph

Manor; Dennis Carman, United Way of Greater Plymouth County

Sponsored By:

DJ service by RobPeters Entertainment.Photography by RichMorgan Photography.

The Good Morning Metro South also featured a holiday book fair. Pictured: JaniceClark, author of Roscoe is a RAKster/You Can Be One Too; Craig O’Connor, author ofHappy Holidays, The Whitechapel Five and the Monster of Modern Times; JudithCampbell, author of A Deadly Mission and An Unspeakable Mission; Mark Singer,author of The Changing Landscape of Retirement. All authors are local. For moreinformation on where to find their books, contact Kim at 508.586.0500 x 231. Ed Stewart, The Charlie Horse


Michael Goodman, Department of PublicPolicy at the University of MassachusettsDartmouth

Christopher Kenney, St. JosephManor President & CEO and eventsponsor

Dennis Carman of United Way of GreaterPlymouth County and event sponsorentertains the crowd with live music.

Continued from page 1over 44,000 members in the Plymouth,Bristol, Norfolk and Barnstable coun-ties. Crescent Credit Union has a 5-starrating from Bauer Financial. For moreinformation, visit crescentcredit.org.

Comcast Business Class offers inter-net, tv and phone packages for busi-nesses of all sizes. Comcast, founded in1963 has frown to become the nation’sleading provider of entertainment,information and communications prod-ucts and services. For more informa-tion, call 508-238-3672.

Professional sound at the breakfast is

provided by Rob PetersEntertainment. Photography byRich Morgan Photography.

As always, the GMMS breakfastprogram is a great networkingopportunity. Guests are encour-aged to stay for the informal net-working immediately following theprogram. The cost to attend is $25for members and $35 for future-members. Register by calling Kim at508.586.0500 x 231, email [email protected] orregister online at events.met-rosouthchamber.com.

Next Breakfast Meeting to Feature Brockton Mayor

Connect Your Business Online; Social Media

Local MLK Celebrations Planned

The Martin Luther King, Jr.Holiday celebrates the life and legacyof a man who brought hope and heal-ing to America. We commemorate aswell the timeless values he taught us

through his example -- the values ofcourage, truth, justice, compassion,dignity, humility and service that soradiantly defined Dr. King’s characterand empowered his leadership. Onthis holiday, we commemorate theuniversal, unconditional love, forgive-ness and nonviolence that empow-ered his revolutionary spirit.

We call you to commemorate thisHoliday by making your personalcommitment to serve humanity withthe vibrant spirit of unconditionallove that was his greatest strength,and which empowered all of the greatvictories of his leadership. And withour hearts open to this spirit of uncon-ditional love, we can indeed achievethe Beloved Community of MartinLuther King, Jr.’s dream.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Area MLK Day Events: Monday, January 16, 2012Please contact the following organizations for

further information on Martin Luther King Day celebrations:• Bridgewater State University at 508.531.2446• Brockton Area NAACP at 508.587.0502• The Children’s Museum in Easton at 508.230.3789• Massasoit Community College at 508.588.9100 x 1309

Article from the www.thekingcenter.com

The Metro South Chamber of Commerce is on a number of Social Media Sites. Find us to stay up todate on current news and events. For more information, visit www.metrosouthchamber.com


Bernardi Offer For Chamber Members

Bernardihonda.com • Bernardihyundai.com“Bernardi For Now ... Bernardi For Life”

• Complimentary car wash• 10% off all parts and service• New vehicles sold $100 over

factory invoice• Pre-owned vehicles sold at

“employee pricing”• Jimbo’s 50 style diner• Complimentary shuttle service• Service drive with valet service

The Metro South Business Assistance Center (BAC), a partnership ofover twenty organizations, is a high-tech, one-stop business resource

center that offers counseling, technical assistance, and financing to potential, exist-ing and expanding businesses.

Located at 60 School Street, Brockton, in the Chamber Building. Call 508.586.0500

FREE services offered • Business Related Software • Access to Computers & Online Resource • Comprehensive Reference Library • Informational & Instructional Videos• Professional Counseling (by appt.) • Workshops & Seminars (fees may apply)

Need Help Starting Your Business? Searching for Money to Start Your Business?

Calling All Restaurants; Taste of Metro South

The Taste of Metro South is a highly vis-ible, much publicized and well-receivedevening of enjoyment for everyone. Thisevent has traditionally drawn between600-700 people. A diverse group ofrestaurants, organizations and perform-ers participate from throughout theMetro South region.

Area restaurants and local organiza-tions are encouraged to participate byrenting booth space or sponsoring theevent. All those who do participate will

20th Annual Taste of Metro SouthWednesday, March 21, 2012, 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Shaw’s Center, Brockton

Tickets available at events.metrosouthchamber.comTicket Price: $35. Tickets must be purchased in advance.Call 508.586.0500 x 231 for tickets and more information

gain exposure through direct interac-tion with new potential customers,word of mouth, through advertise-ments in the Enterprise, Action Reportand Program Guide, and potentialcoverage on the Brockton CommunityAccess Channel and WXBR 1460 AM.

Don’t miss this invaluable opportu-nity. For more information, pleasecontact Kim Prosper at 508.586.0500 x231 or email [email protected]

Participate on the Taste of Metro South Committee:The Taste Committee helps organize the Taste of Metro South to increase the

awareness and appreciation of living and working in the region. The committeehelps recruit new restaurants and meets to discuss the logistics to make a success-ful community event. To join the Taste Committee, contact Kim Prosper at508.586.0500 x 231.

• “Pit Stop” service (free fluid check,free tire pressure check, free tire thread depth)

• Free Multi-Point inspection (“Road Test Plus” ASE Certified MasterTechnician will provide a no cost road test and a one-on-one consulting session)

• Offer Enterprise Rent-A-Car

Bernardi Honda and Hyundai are located at 300 Manley Street, Brockton.To offer these benefits to you and your employees, contact Tom McCabe at508-205-3660, [email protected]. We will come toyour place of business and deliver your VIP cards and flyers at no charge.

Over 300 Attend Regional After Hours

Bob Regan, Servpro of Brockton, Weymouth & Quincy and Mark Burgess, Toll Road Truck & Trailer Corporation

Tom Pattavina, Pattavina Networks andChris Aghjayan, Conagh Technologies, Inc.

Dana Mattson, MassMedia; Neal Braver, Liberty Tax Services; Lisa Wyn, Bath Fitter; Andrew Sheehan, AFA Massachusetts, Inc.

Lauren Schantz, Randstad; Laurie Grunin, Graphic Designer

Rob Peters, Rob Peters Entertainment; Yashin Cerritos, Mutual Bank; Craig Pina, Consultant

Rep. Brady Speaks at Legislative MeetingState Representative Michael Brady spoke to over 20

people at the recent Government Affairs meeting.Pictured: Philip Carver, University of MassachusettsBoston (Government Affairs Sponsor), Sue Joss, ViceChair of Government Affairs, State RepresentativeMichael Brady and Avon Selectman Robert Brady.

The next Government Affairs Meeting will take placeat the Chamber on Friday, January 20, 12pm at theChamber Office, 60 School Street, Brockton. The cost is$5 for members and $15 for future-members andincludes lunch. The meeting is open to all. Call508.586.0500 x 231 to register.


RENEWINGMembers Thank You !Artco Inc.Barnard ConstructionBeacon Financial Planning, IncBelmont Dry CleanersBoston Limo and Shuttle Service, LLCBridgewater TrophyBrockton 21st Century CorporationBrothers Pest Control, Inc.Chili's Grill & BarClearpoint Communications, Inc.Collins Crane & Rigging Service, Inc.Commonwealth Mediation & ConciliationCutting Edge CarpentryDahlborg-MacNevin Funeral HomeDirect MediaEagleEye Accounting SolutionsElectric by Design, LLCEnergy Conservation, Inc.Exta Space StorageFour Points RealtyG. Arthur Moberg & Son, Inc.Giannaros, Inc.Hampden TechnologiesHanson & AssociatesHarborOne Credit UnionHenson Jackson Art Gallery FrameryHolmes-McDuffy Florists, Inc.Home Health Resources, Inc.J. Frank Conley, Inc.Joe Angelo's Cafe & DeliJon L. Jenmarc, Inc.

Kindred Hospital Northeast - StoughtonLee AssociatesM. Donahue Associates, Inc.McCormick & Sons Insurance Agency, Inc.Mutual BankNorthEast Electrical DistributorsOld Colony YMCAPawtucket Red SoxProgress Physical Therapy &Rehabilitation, Inc.Rockland Trust CompanyRomm DiamondsSource4South Coastal BankStonehill CollegeStoughton MotelSullivan Tire & Auto Service - AbingtonSullivan Tire & Auto Service - East

BridgewaterSullivan Tire & Auto Service - RocklandTexas RoadhouseThe Ockers Company, Inc.Timberline Construction CorporationTosca-Brady Insurance Agency of

Randolph Inc.Tranquil Escape Day SpaTrans Courier SystemsVermont Pure Springs / Crystal RockWATD 95.9FMWoods Financial

WELCOME New MembersMaking an Investment in Our Community

Advantage Mortgage ServicesMr. Bob Case25 Main StreetPlymouth, MA 02360(508) 747-1009www.ams-loan.comReal Estate/Residential

All State Waste, Inc.Mr. Paul Pederzani433 Forest AvenueBrockton, MA 02301(508) 583-4100Rubbish Removal

Duncan Kitchen & BathMs. Debbie Duncan239 Liberty StreetHanson, MA 02341(781) 293-1121www.duncankitchenandbath.comHome Improvements

FJM Heating & Air ConditioningMr. Frank MorascaPO Box 2382Taunton, MA 02780(508) 889-2520FJMHeatingandac.comHeating & A/C

Hill-Top CandyMr. Chase Kurinskas56 Manley Street, Unit AWest Bridgewater, MA 02379(508) 583-0895www.hilltopcandy.comCandy

Kindness Dental CareMr. Chun-Kuei John Chen, D.M.D.1032 Turnpike St. Suite 203Canton, MA 02021(781) 821-5700Dental

Law Office of Marc Lucas, LLCMr. Marc Lucas1130 North Main StreetBrockton, MA 02301(508) 638-0797www.marclucas.orgAttorneys

Laurie Grunin DesignMs Laurie Grunin38 Lamplighter LaneSouth Easton, MA 02375(508) 725-3557Graphic Design

Prism Energy ServicesMr. Steve Hall1150 Hancock St., Suite 400Quincy, MA 02169(617) 328-9896prismenergyservices.comEnergy Management

Solomon B. BabajideMr. Solomon B. Babajide149 Bolivar Street B-2Canton, MA 02021(617) 501-1817Business Consultant

Taylor Consulting and ContractingMr. Michael Oksanish44 School Street, Suite 200BBoston, MA 02108(857) 244-6900www.bostonbuyingpower.comEnergy Management

The Steam MasterMr. Mel Melo330 Seekell StreetEast Taunton, MA 02718(781) 389-8139www.thesteammaster.comCarpet Cleaning

Titans Basketball ClubMr. Avalon McLaren36 Lincoln RoadBrockton, MA 02301(857) 231-1027www.bostontitansbball.comAthletics

Chamber Affiliation News & Events

The East Bridgewater Business Association provides a uni-fied voice for business in East Bridgewater, provides a forumfor networking, provides education about matters of businessimportance and provides support to community activities.Call 508-378-8400 for more information.

The Stoughton Chamber of Commerce will hold its 2012Annual Meeting on January 9, 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm at the NESinai Hospital Brenner Room. The event will include din-ner, awards and guest speaker former N.E. QuarterbackSteve Grogan (1975-1990). Tickets are $25 per person or$175 for a table of 8. For more information, visit www.stoughtonma.com orcall 781-297-7450.

The Norwell Chamber of Commerce holds reg-ular meetings featuring guest speakers and spe-cial programs, Candidates’ Night, HolidayFathering, Business After Hours and the Taste ofNorwell. For more information, visit nor-

wellchamberofcommerce.com.

To become an affiliate organization of the Chamber, contact John Nesti at508.586.0500 x 229 or email [email protected].

The Bridgewater Business Association (BBA) was formed in 1984and is devoted to the interests of the business community in theTown of Bridgewater. The BBA works to promote unity betweenBridgewater and the business community, good will among busi-

ness owners, interacts with Town government and encourages growth of in-town businesses. Visit www.bridgewaterbiz.biz for more information.

To Join the Chamber, Contact John Nesti,

508.586.0500 x 229, [email protected]

Annual rates start at just $295.

SDO Office Holds Pre-Certification WorkshopThe Supplier Diversity Office (SDO) recentlyheld a pre-certification workshop at theChamber for those businesses interested inapplying as a Minority, Woman orDisadvantaged Business Enterprise. Over40 people attended this workshop. Formore information, including dates ofupcoming SDO workshops, contact JohnFitzpatrick at 617-973-8647. The SDO alsoholds office hours within the Chamberbuilding.

GRO-N-THINGS, INC.

P.O. Box 1246Middleboro, MA 02346

Interior Plant Maintenance and Design Service508.947.8433 (p)781.767.2244 (f)


Chamber Supports Regional Wastewater Solution Chamber Staff Directory

Christopher Cooney, President & CEO 508.586.0500 x 223, [email protected] provides effective leadership for the organization and its members in carryingout the Chamber's mission, directing internal operations and developing externalrelationships beneficial to business and community advancement.

Lisa Keene, Business Assistance & Advocacy 508.586.0500 x 225, [email protected] provides direct assistance to current and prospective business people throughthe Metro South Business Assistance Center and Edison Business Incubator. In addi-tion, she provides leadership support to the Government Affairs Division and assis-tance with special chamber/community projects.

Kathleen Lynch, Connecting Activities508.586.0500 x 227, [email protected] coordinates Connecting Activities, a state-wide internship program thatconnects youth with area employers. She also focuses on issues aimed at attracting,training, and retaining a competitive workforce and the CHOICES Program.

Amilcar Monteiro, Technology Assistant508.586.0500 x 221International student Amilcar assists in the technology conversion to a web-basedmember database. He also researches, investigates, and develops new technologytrends as they relate to the Chamber and membership.

John Nesti, Director of Member Services 508.586.0500 x 229, [email protected] is responsible for member recruitment and development. His roles include sitevisits with current and prospective members as well as promotion of existing bene-fits and programs. He also works to identify and develop new and effective meansto engage and reward Chamber Ambassadors.

Kimberly Prosper, Program Director 508.586.0500 x 231, [email protected] is responsible for all Chamber programs and events. This includes the monthlyGood Morning Metro South breakfasts, Business After Hours, ATHENA Program,the Taste of Metro South, and the Chamber's Annual Meeting and Business Expo.

Kerry Sullivan, Controller508.586.0500 x 230, [email protected] is responsible for all of the Chamber's financial reporting. She works coopera-tively with the management team to produce forecasts, projections and budgets.

Alison van Dam, Director of Communications & Marketing508.586.0500 x 222, [email protected] designs and produces the Chamber's Metro South Book for Business, writesand designs the Action Report newsletter and weekly e-Update email, and is respon-sible for the design, creation and maintenance of the Chamber website, social net-working sites, Brockton Information Boards, and city maps. In addition, she createsevent marketing, and Chamber and Brockton advertisements.

Top Row: Amilcar Monteiro, John Nesti, Kerry Sullivan, Alison van Dam, Christopher CooneyBottom Row: Kimberly Prosper, Kathleen Lynch, Lisa Keene

Chamber Presidentand CEO ChristopherCooney was asked to tes-tify before the BrocktonCity Council to discussrecent advocacy forextending wastewaterservices to Avon, Easton,East Bridgewater andWest Bridgewater. TheChamber recently sent aletter to U.S. SenatorsJohn Kerry and ScottBrown, State officialsand the U.S.Environmental Protection Agency.The letter was signed by MayorLinda Balzotti and Old ColonyPlanning Council Director, PatCiaramella . More than one hundredmillion dollars has been spent on ren-ovations ordered by the EPA. The

facility is once again oper-ating at a level that canprovide regional service asit was originally designedto do in the 1960’s. “Thefacility was built to servethe region which is inneed of these services. Aregional business recruit-ment and retention strate-gy calls for the extension ofwastewater services tocommercial sections andindustrial parks through-out the region. We are for-

tunate to have a modern wastewaterreclamation facility serving this area.We now need to advocate for its useregionally so we can attract and retainbusinesses that are so important to ourfuture,” said Chamber President andCEO, Christopher Cooney.

Book For Business Arriving Soon

The Chamber of Commerce willsoon be distributing the 2012 MetroSouth Book for Business. The bookfeatures area dining, lodging, publicgolf courses, recreation, legislative

leaders, community demographics,regional and economic data and a com-plete membership listing. The book alsoincludes a full color map of the MetroSouth region, highlighting hotels, golfcourses, industrial parks, town halls andother points of interest.

“This year’s Book for Business fea-tures 100 pages of information useful toresidents, visitors, and businesses in theMetro South region. It places the entireChamber membership at your finger-tips,” said Christopher Cooney, Presidentand CEO of the Chamber.

Copies of the Book for Business willbe distributed throughout the region tobanks, real estate offices, town hall offices,all Chamber members, area colleges, andsent to all relocating businesses and fam-ilies interested in the Metro South area.

LoJack Relocates Headquarters to Canton

LoJack Corporation, the world-wide leader in finding and recov-ering a wide range of stolen mobileassets including cars, constructionequipment and motorcycles, hasmoved its global headquarters to40 Pequot Way in Canton,Massachusetts. Prior to the move,LoJack had three separate offices;

two in Westwood and one inCanton. The new building ishome to approximately 200employees who reside through-out Massachusetts, Rhode Islandand New Hampshire.

Since inventing the stolenvehicle recovery market morethan 25 years ago, LoJack has

expanded its core competencies intoother areas, including the prevention,detection and recovery of stolen cargoand finding and rescuing of peoplewith cognitive conditions such asautism or Alzheimer’s.

For more information, call 781-203-4200, visit www.lojack.com or email [email protected].


IT’S EASY TO REGISTER!508-586-0500 x 231

508-587-1340

E-mail:[email protected]

Send reservation and payment to:

MSCCSixty School Street Brockton, MA 02301-4087

10 Cabot Place, Stoughton (and various branches)877-963-2100 • www.randolphsavings.com

Serving the financial needs of individuals and busi-nesses since 1851.Offering competitive banking andlending products for businesses including: commer-cial real estate mortgages, equipment and termloans/lines, letters of credit, SBA loans and USDAloans. Call Nicholas DeRosa (781-573-1356) orMichael DeMarco (781-573-1336) to learn howRandolph Savings can help grow your business.Member FDIC, Member DIF, Equal Housing Lender.

330 Seekell Street, E. Taunton781-389-8139 • www.thesteammaster.com

We are a family owned and operated Carpetand Janitorial Cleaning company that has beenserving the cleaning needs of Massachusetts &Rhode Island since 1995. Our method of clean-ing is preferred by major carpet manufacturersto maintain your carpet warranty. All of ourtechnicians are trained and certified. No jobtoo big or small! The Steam Master can do it all!781-389-8139, www.TheSteamMaster.com

56 Manley Street, W. Bridgewater508-583-0895 • www.hilltopcandy.com

Hill- Top Candy takes pride in providing cus-tomers with fresh and quality candy. Here atHill-Top we produce over seventy flavors oftaffy, puff candy, and delicious ultra-thin rib-bon candy. Our retail store is located withinour factory at 56 Manley St, WestBridgewater, MA 02324. Please come in andvisit us and sample some of our deliciouscandy!

2012 Holiday CalendarSummary of State Laws Relative to Legal Holidays Blue Law

- apply until midnight - on Columbus Day apply until noon - on Veteran’s Day apply until 1 p.m

Work permits for “Blue Law” holidays- can be obtained at the discretion of local authorities- should be requested 60 days in advance- shall not cover more than one day Overtime- In general, retailers** (with 8 or more employees) are required to pay a minimum of time and one-half to non-professional employees working on all Sundays. All retailers, regardless of size, are required to pay a minimum of time and one-half on New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Independence Day, Veteran’s Day and on January 2 in years on which January 1 fall on a Sunday.

Other Holiday Facts- When January 1 falls on a Sunday, retailers may open for regular hours the following day. - The provisions of the law relating to overtime, to the stipulation that a person cannot be required to work and to permits concerning the opening of retail stores on restricted holidays, are enforced by the department of Fair Labor & Business Practices.

For further information- The information contained in this calendar is based on current state statues and regulations. For further information, contact the agencies listed below. - For questions regarding permit regulations, contact the Executive Office of the Attorney General, Division of Fair Labor and Business Practices at 617-727-2200.- For all other questions, please contact the Citizen’s Information Service at 617-727-7030 or 1-800-392-6090.

When a legal holiday falls on a Sunday, it is observed on thefollowing day. When a legal holiday falls on a Saturday,

it is observed on that day.* Chapter 136, Section 6 of the Massachusetts General Law provides a list of 54

clauses which detail different activities that are not prohibited on Sundays or holidays. These are know as exceptions to the Blue Laws.

** As defined in Chapter 136, Section 6, Clauses 25, 27, and 50 and in Chapter 138.

New Year’s DaySunday, January 1M.L. King DayMonday, January 16President’s DayMonday, February 20Patriot’s DayMonday, April 16Memorial DayMonday, May 28Independence DayWednesday, July 4Labor DayMonday, September 3Columbus DayMonday, October 8Veteran’s DaySunday, November 11Thanksgiving DayThursday, November 22Christmas DayTuesday, December 25

January 20Government Affairs

12:00 pm - 1:15 pmMetro South Chamber of Commerce60 School Street, Brockton

Discuss issues of importance with elected officials relevant to the current business climate.

Tickets: $5 members, $15 future-members

Please RSVP at 508.586.0500 ext. 225

8:00 am - 10:00 amThe Metro South Chamber of Commerce60 School Street, Brockton

Learn if owning a franchise is right for you, aboutselecting a brand, financing and the due diligenceprocess.

Free to attend.

Please RSVP at 508-586.0500 ext. 225

7:30 am - 9:00 amThe Shaw’s Center1 Feinberg Way, Brockton

This breakfast program features informative speakers in a talk show style format and also allows for networking opportunities.

Tickets: $25 members, $35 future-members

Please RSVP at 508.586.0500 ext. 231

January 25SCORE Franchising Workshop

January 19Good Morning Metro South

Randolph Savings Bank Hill-Top CandyThe Steam Master Titans Basketball Club

36 Lincoln Road, Brockton857-231-1027 • www.bostontitansbball.com

We strive to be the #1 option for amateur student ath-letes looking to become elite basketball players. A not-for-profit 501c3 organization, we currently work withover 40 boys throughout the South Shore. In additionto developing basketball skills, we teach the value ofteamwork, accountability, and discipline. We alsoencourage them year round to do well in school,assisting them to get into college preparatory schoolsand introducing them to local college coaches.

Buy Local From These New Chamber of Commerce Members

jan 2012

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