102Nd Annual Meeting to Feature Spanx CEO; EXPO Chamber Chair

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

November 2015

Leading Businesses reportSusan Joss Re-Elected Leading Communities 102nd Annual Meeting to Feature Spanx CEO; EXPO Chamber Chair

The Chamber is pleased to Premier Sponsor: Contributing Sponsor: announce that CHAMBER MISSION Susan Joss, To best serve the unique Exec. Director interests and needs of of Brockton member businesses and to Neighborhood champion the broader Health Center economic vitality of the was re-elected Chair of the Metro Metro South region. South Chamber. November 18, 2015 Prior to Nike, Jan served as the V.P./General Sue Joss was elected as Chair Conference Center at Massasoit Manager of Women’s at Reebok and held execu- in November 2014 and has 770 Crescent Street, Brockton tive roles in the luxury goods sector at Prada beau- served as the Executive Director ty, Calvin Klein Cosmetics and CHANEL. Jan also of the Brockton Neighborhood Schedule: served as the Beauty and Fitness Editorial Director Health Center, a non-profit, mul- Business-to-Business EXPO: 10:30am-12:00pm for YM Magazine and was a freelance beauty and ticultural, community health cen- Annual Meeting Luncheon: 12:00pm-1:45pm fitness writer for various publications including ter, since January of 1994. She also Business-to-Business EXPO: 1:45pm-3:00pm Elle, Self and Seventeen. serves as the Vice-Chair of the Banner Environmental Jan grew up in Brockton, Massachusetts, attend- Massachusetts League of Ribbon Cutting, page 6 Keynote Speaker: ed Brockton High School, and is a graduate of Community Health Centers and Jan Singer - CEO of Spanx, Inc.; Brockton Ithaca College. She and her husband David live in on the Board of Brockton 21st native & BHS graduate Atlanta, GA and have twins, Sophie and Maxwell. Century Corporation. Continued on page 7 Chamber Holds Board Retreat to Set Priorities Chamber Board members David Willis, page 7 and staff recently met for a full day of planning to set priorities The 102nd Annual Meeting and Business-to- Also at the luncheon, Economic Impact Awards for 2016 and 2017. The Board Business Expo will be held on Wednesday, will be presented to businesses who have made a retreat was held at Merkert- November 18 at the Conference Center at significant investment in the Metro South region Tracy Hall on the campus of Massasoit, 770 Crescent Street, Brockton from over the past year. (See recipients on page 2). Stonehill College. It was facilitat- 10:30 am - 3:00 pm. Join 500 fellow business people Board service awards will also be presented, as ed by Ian Scott, Vice President of and community leaders in celebrating the start of well as the Charles A. Fuller Award, to an individual Communications and Network, our 102nd year as well as businesses working whose leadership performance, personal example, Association of Chamber of Karen Exama, page 10 together for the future of the Metro South Region. and good influence has done the most to advance Commerce Executives (ACCE). The keynote speaker is the welfare of the Metro South Chamber Chair Sue Joss, led Jan Singer, CEO of Spanx, Chamber and the community. the discussion about the impor- Inc. and Brockton native, Be sure to schedule time tance of the Chamber to the who was recently featured before or after the Luncheon future of the region, and facilita- in the . to attend the Business-to- NY Times tor Ian Scott shared his insight to Founded in 2000, Spanx Business Expo and learn the ways chambers of commerce Inc. revolutionized the about the products and serv- Continued on page 7 shapewear industry with ices of over 50 businesses and Gov. Baker to Address the invention of footless organizations. The EXPO is Make your Chamber, page 11 pantyhose. Today, the company, headquartered in free to walk the floor. Table-tops are still available Atlanta, GA, houses a complete product offering but space is limited. Table-tops will be reserved on CONTENTS of Hosiery, Intimate Apparel, Active Life, Swim & a first-come, first-serve basis. The cost to exhibit is Men’s and is sold in 50 countries. $499 for members and $599 for future-members. Calendar of Events 3 Jan Singer joined Spanx from Nike, Inc., where Lunch tickets are $100 for members, $135 for VOTE future-members. This event will sell out, pre-reg- Good News 4 she held various senior leadership roles over ten years including Corporate V.P. of Global Apparel istration is required. To reserve your tickets or count! Renewing Members 10 and Corporate V.P. of Global Footwear. While at Expo space, please contact Athena Lavoie at Nike, Jan managed multi-billion dollar product [email protected], 508.586.0500 Election Day is New Members 10 engines that created industry-defining innova- x231, or visit metrosouthchamber.com/calendar. November 3, 2015 Member Profiles 12 tions across all categories. See more on page 2 www.wheredoivotema.com 2 ACTION Report November 2015 www.metrosouthchamber.com

Wednesday, November 18, 2015 Conference Center at Massasoit 770 Crescent Street, Brockton 10:30 am - 3:00 pm

Luncheon: 12:00 pm - 1:45 pm Expo: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm & 1:45 pm - 3:00 pm Business to Business Expo Exhibitors Keynote Speaker FREE TO WALK THE EXPO FLOOR Keynote Speaker Jan Singer is a Brockton native November 18, 2015, 10:30 am - 12:00 pm & 1:45 pm - 3:00 pm and the CEO of Spanx, Inc. Founded in 2000, Spanx revolutionized the shapewear industry with the Conference Center @ Massasoit, Brockton invention of footless pantyhose, and today hous- ABC Disposal Services Inc. Hub Technical Services es a complete product offering of Hosiery, B.C. Tent & Awning Mansfield Bank Intimate Apparel, Active Life, Swim and Men’s Bank of America Merrill Lynch Massasoit Community College Wear, and is sold in 50 countries. Jan Singer has Beacon Financial Planning, Inc. Mechanics Cooperative Bank held various senior leadership roles at Nike, Inc., Bridgewater Savings Bank Metro South Chamber of Reebok, Prada Beauty, Calvin Klein Cosmetics, Brockton Area Arc, Inc. Commerce and CHANEL. Hear how she got her start in her Brockton Public Schools Minuteman Health, Inc. hometown of Brockton. Bring your whole staff as Buffalo Wild Wings Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane, a team building experience! Burgess Pest Management LLP Cambridge Savings Bank Mutual Bank Capital Lease Group, LTD. Nissan 24 Economic Impact Award Recipients CareerWorks Old Colony Elder Services, Inc. Citizens Bank Old Colony YMCA • Bell Stoughton Apartments - • Evans Machine Co. - Brockton Crescent Credit Union Rich Morgan Photography Stoughton • Kenworth Northeast - Brockton Curry College Rob Peters Entertainment • Brockton Neighborhood Health • KOSO America - West Bridgewater Cushman Insurance Group Santander Center - Brockton • Phoenix Electrical Corp. - Canton Eastern Bank Sign Design, Inc. • Delta Service, Inc. - Easton • Sulmonte & Frenier, LLP - Brockton Family & Community Resources, Inc. Signature Healthcare • Douglas A. King Builders • Trinity Financial - Brockton Fisher College Source4 (Edgewater Apartments) - Easton • Vicente’s Grocery - Brockton Fun Enterprises, Inc. St. Joseph Manor Health Care, Inc. Good Samaritan Medical Center Stephco Cleaning & Restoration HarborOne Bank The Enterprise Sponsors & Special Thanks Healing Hearts Holistically Tufts Health Plan - Network Health Premier Sponsor: Contributing Sponsor: Special Giveaways & Entertainment! Each attendee will leave the 102nd Annual Meeting Luncheon with a special giveaway, featuring a premier product made in Cape Verde and distributed by Vicente’s Tropical Grocery! There will also be a photo booth from Rob Peters Entertainment, activities and takeaways from FUN Enterprises, Inc., and a Ride & Drive with Nissan 24 Corporate Tables & Contributing Sponsors: where you can experience the 100% Abington Bank Massasoit Community College electric, no gas Nissan LEAF! American Express/Small Business Mutual Bank Cardinal Spellman High School’s Saturday Nissan 24 Cabaret Choir will showcase the tal- Bank of America National Grid ents of this region’s students during Bridgewater Savings Bank North Easton Savings Bank their performance of the National Bridgewater State University Old Colony Elder Services Anthem. More performers will be Brockton Area Transit Authority Old Colony Planning Council added. Join us for this special celebra- Brockton Community Access Old Colony YMCA tion as we begin the start of our 102nd Students from Cardinal Spellman High School in Brockton Brockton Housing Authority Rich Morgan Photography perform at the Chamber’s last Annual Meeting. year of advocating for business and the Conference Center at Massasoit Rob Peters Entertainment future of the region. Crescent Credit Union Rockland Trust Promote Your Business at the Annual Meeting Eastern Bank Santander Energy Sage Sharkansky LLP, CPA’s Donate a prize for the Metro South Chamber 102nd Annual Meeting Raffle The Enterprise Signature Healthcare and you will receive valuable exposure and direct promotion of your products FUN Enterprises, Inc. Source 4 and services. Examples of prizes to donate: Gift certificates, savings bonds, bot- Good Samaritan Medical Center Stephco Cleaning & Restoration tles of wine, passes to cultural or educational events, free ads, clothing, and HarborOne Bank Tufts Health Plan more. Feel free to be traditional or creative! Proceeds go to the Metro South Holmes-McDuffy Florist UMass Donahue Institute Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation. Contact Athena Lavoie at Hub Technical Services Vicente’s Tropical Grocery 508.586.0500 x 231 for more information or to donate a prize. Mansfield Bank Westgate Mall www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report November 2015 3 BOARD OF DIRECTORS DIRECTORS Networking at Events OFFICERS Jason Barbosa - Vicente’s Tropical Grocery is one of the most effective ways to grow your business! Chair of the Board Jane Callahan - HR Alternatives Susan Joss Brockton Neighborhood Health Center Joe Cardinal -National Grid NOVEMBER Calendar Joseph Casey - HarborOne Bank President and CEO 4 Ambassador Meeting 8:00 am Christopher Cooney Peter Dello Russo - Bridgewater Savings Bank Metro South Chamber of Commerce 9 Pre-Certification Workshop 10:00 am Francis Dillon - Stonehill College Chair-Elect 10 MSBDC Advising Call to Schedule Gregory Hart - Cohn Reznick Gerard Nadeau 12 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony & Open House 4:00 pm Rockland Trust Company Kim Hollon - Signature Healthcare Braemoor Health Center, 34 North Pearl Street, Brockton

Treasurer Richard Hynes- Barbour Corporation 18 102nd Annual Meeting & Expo John McGovern Conference Center at Massasoit, 770 Crescent St, Brockton John Jurczyk - Good Samaritan Medical Center McGovern Business Valuation Expo Begins 10:30 am Mahsa Khanbabai - Annual Meeting Luncheon 12:00 pm Vice Chair Community Affairs Khanbabai Immigration Law Expo Ends 3:00 pm Robert Kenworthy Jim Murphy LSP- Tracey Environmental, LLC Bank of America 20 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 11:00 am IM Wireless, 225 Bedford Street, E. Bridgewater Peter Neville - Concord Foods Vice Chair Economic Development Pat Ciaramella Jonathan “Jay” Pike - Sharkansky LLP 26 Thanksgiving - Chamber Closed Old Colony Planning Council Andrew Raczka -Abington Bank Coming Up Vice Chair Government Affairs Kathleen Smith -Brockton Public Schools Ray Ledoux December Brockton Area Transit Authority Gigi Tsaganis Johnson - Christo’s To Go 2 Ambassador Meeting 8:00 am Stan Usovicz -Verizon Vice Chair Membership Development Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Friend Weiler Peter Vlaco - Brophy & Philips Company, Inc. 3 3:00 pm Town Moderator Central Rock Gym, 445 High Street, Randolph Dr. Charles Wall - 8 Executive Committee Meeting 3:00 pm Immediate Past Chair Massasoit Community College William Morse 11 Government Affairs Meeting 12:00 pm Mutual Bank 16 Board of Directors 12:00 pm

17 Good Morning Metro South ft. Gov. Baker 7:30 am CHAMBER STAFF 508-586-0500 Front Desk x 221 Conference Center at Massasoit, Brockton

Christopher Cooney, CCE, IOM Alison van Dam, IOM 25 Christmas Day - Chamber Closed President and CEO x 223 VP of Business Development/Operations x 225 Athena Lavoie Doris Flecchia Save the Date Director of Programs & Events x 231 Office Assistant x 221 January Melanie McGrath Aimee Bonneau, CPA Communications Coordinator x 222 Finance x 230 1 New Year’s Day - Chamber Closed

Newsletter Written & Designed by Melanie McGrath 6 Ambassador Meeting 8:00 am Printing Provided by The Enterprise 12 Executive Committee Meeting 3:00 pm ACTION Report Volume 15 - Issue 10 (USPS-410630) is published monthly except for combined 13 Good Morning Metro South 7:30 am ACCREDITED July/August for $5.00 per year by the Metro South Chamber of TBD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Commerce, Sixty School Street, Brockton, MA 02301-4087. Periodical Postage Paid at Brockton, MA. 21 SEED Basic Business Workshop 9:00 am CHAMBER MISSION: To best serve the POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Action Report, unique interests and needs of member businesses Sixty School Street, Brockton, MA 02301-4087 21 Business After Hours 5:30 pm and to champion the broader vitality of the Metro St. Joseph Manor, 215 Thatcher Street, Brockton South region. The Metro South Chamber of Commerce is solely responsible for the editorial content of this publication. 27 Cyber Liability Workshop 12:00 pm Metro South Chamber of Commerce The Chamber wishes to assure our members of our intention Sixty School Street, Brockton, MA 02301-4087 to provide physically challenged participants equal access to 27 Board of Directors 12:00 pm tel: 508 586-0500/fax: 508 587-1340 all programs. If you or your employees have special needs [email protected] in this area, please let us know by calling the Chamber at www.metrosouthchamber.com 508-586-0500 at least 48 hours in advance. Note: All meetings are held at the Metro South Chamber Office or Metro South Business Assistance Center (BAC), Photography by: Rich Morgan * www.richmorganphotography.com 60 School Street, Brockton unless otherwise indicated. 4 ACTION Report November 2015 www.metrosouthchamber.com Members - Send Good News to of Daniel L. Conrad as Senior Vice In order to be considered, a percentage [email protected] President, Senior Loan Officer. The Senior of employees had to nominate their GOODNews Sponsored by: Good Samaritan Loan Officer for Mechanics Cooperative agency and answer questions about their employer. “People, culture, strong Good Samaritan Treat Yourself Well Event 62nd Annual Tri-Town Veterans Day Parade Bank is responsible for the day-to-day oversight and administration of the Bank’s leadership, respect, profitability, growth Good Samaritan Medical Center invites you All are invited to attend the 62nd Annual loan portfolio including overall sales and and community involvement are a few to Treat Yourself Well at our Women’s Tri-Town Veterans Day Parade on policies and procedures to ensure the qual- Imaging Center, featuring 8,000 square feet of Wednesday, November 11 to show sup- of the reasons why Rogers & Gray ity of Bank lending assets. Daniel L. modern space and offering advanced 3D port for America’s Veterans. The parade Insurance took this year’s “Overall Best Conrad joins Mechanics Cooperative Bank mammogram technology. Schedule your will step off at 8:45 am and will begin on Agency to Work For” award, writes with over thirty (30) years of banking expe- annual mammogram on November 3 or 4 Central Street in Abington, continuing on Andrea Wells, Editor in Chief of rience starting his career on the retail side from 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm and enjoy a relaxing to Washington Street, North Avenue, and Insurance Journal. Founded in 1906 and of the industry. For more information, call environment which may include a harpist, finishing by Depot Restaurant. Groups headquartered in Massachusetts, Rogers 1-888-MECHANICS (632-4264) or visit chair massage, refreshments, and more. The from Abington, Whitman, or Rockland & Gray Insurance ranks in the top 100 Mechanics-Coop.com. Women’s Imaging Center is located at 15 interested in marching in the parade can independent insurance agencies in the Roche Brothers Way (One Washington Place contact the Parade Chairman, Ken U.S. To learn more about Rogers & Gray, Holiday Shop Opening Celebration at Fuller Craft building), Suite 120 in North Easton. Please Coburn, at 781-424-7375. please visit www.rogersgray.com. Come to the holidaySHOP opening day call 508-427-2665 to schedule your screening celebration all-day Saturday, November and join us during a Treat Yourself Well event. BKA Architects Expands Inside & Out Massasoit Comm.College’s “A Christmas Carol” 21, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm at the Fuller Craft Learn more at goodsamaritanmedical.org. BKA Architects, an award winning full- The Massasoit Theatre Company will service design firm with main offices in Museum located at 455 Oak Street in present “A Christmas Carol,” a play Brockton. Join us for a trunk show and OCES Awarded Curtis Trust Charitable Grant Brockton, has announced a major leader- based on the novel by Charles Dickens, demonstration by Jeff Bowie of Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the ship transition. A new team, already in with several performances over the next Picklepot, who will talk about her steam- regional agency that serves older adults and place, is helping the firm to better manage two months. The musical adaptation punk jewelry. We will also have holiday individuals with disabilities throughout the business growth while maintaining its will be performed on at the Buckley cookies to get you into the spirit. Visit greater Brockton and Plymouth county commitment to superior, client-focused Performing Arts Center on November fullercraft.org for more details. area, has received a $25,000 grant from the design services. Barry Koretz, who found- 28, December 5, 11, & 12 at 8:00 pm, and George E. Curtis Charitable Trust (Curtis ed BKA in 1974, sees a bright future for the November 29, December 6 & 13 at 3:00 firm. “This transition is an organic out- Brockton Public Library Extends Hours Trust) for their Emergency Fund. This Fund pm. Tickets are $18 general admission, growth of the principles on which our firm The hours at both the East and West is specifically intended to meet the needs of $16 students/seniors, and $14 per per- was founded 40 years ago,” says Koretz. Branches of the Brockton Public Library older adults and individuals with disabilities son for groups of 10 or more. Please visit “We’re entering a new era, but as our new have recently been extended. Both who are in crisis or emergency situations massasoit.edu to purchase tickets team is already showing, our focus branches are open nearly double the hours that threaten their health or living status. online, or call 508-427-1234. remains firmly on meeting client needs.” of the previous schedule due to a generous The emergency fund is OCES' primary To learn more, visit bkaarchitects.com. grant from the Brockton Library resource available to assist with these needs. Childrens Museum in Easton Autism Night Foundation supplemented by additional Funding from the Curtis Trust will enable On Friday, November 6, The Children’s The Charity Guild Holds Annual Gala funds from the City of Brockton. The East OCES to provide fuel assistance, medication Museum in Easton will be open exclu- The Charity Guild, which exists to provide Branch is now open Monday and dispensers, hearing aid assistance and more. sively to families with children 10 and basic and necessary services to those Wednesday from 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M., For more information, visit ocesma.org or under on the Autism Spectrum from unable to meet their primary needs of food, Tuesday from 9:00 A.M. until noon, and curtistrust.org. 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm. This will give them clothing and household goods, will hold Thursday from 2:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. The an opportunity to explore the their Annual Gala on Friday, November 20 West Branch is open Monday from 9:00 Museum’s hands-on exhibits in a less Free Self Defense Class Offered With Brockton Police at the Shaw’s Center, 1 Feinberg Way in A.M. until noon, Tuesday and Thursday overwhelming atmosphere. This pro- Brockton Police Department will be offering Brockton. Titled “An American Holiday from 5:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. and gram is free but pre-registration is a 4-week free self-defense class on Mondays, Spirit,” the event will include a musical Wednesday from 2:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. required. Call the Museum at 508-230- November 9,16,23, and 30 from 6:00 pm - salute to the men and women who have These extended hours will continue 3789 to register. Visit childrensmuseu- 8:00 pm. Learn simple, effective techniques served our country in uniform. There will throughout the school year. Visit brockton- mineaston.org to learn more. that emphasize instructive movements, also be hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and a live publiclibrary.org to learn more. practical and realistic scenarios. All classes and silent auction. For more information, Brockton Public Schools Hosts Zumba Night will be held at the station located at 7 please visit thecharityguild.org. Veterans Day Breakfast at Council on Aging The Brockton Public Schools Parents’ Commercial Street in Brockton, and taught AcademyWorkshop Series presents by a certified police instructor. To sign up, Please join us in honoring Veterans with 32nd Annual Turkey Trot Zumba Night at Pouffe Academy, please contact Officer Fontes at 508-897-5281, a Veterans’ Day breakfast at the Council Join the Old Colony YMCA for their 32nd November 5 from 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm. This [email protected]. Individuals on Aging in Brockton. Beginning with a Annual Taunton Turkey Trot on Sunday, is the ultimate Zumba Dance Party for must pre-register, be 18 or older, and sign a wreath ceremony at 9:00 am, followed November 15. This is a 5 mile road race parents and children. Everyone gets the waiver. Space is limited. by our guest speaker David Farrell of on a flat, residential course, beginning at Veterans Services. Breakfast will be chance to be active and jam out to their 10:00 am, rain or shine. The race starts favorite music while enjoying exercise Hope Health Announces Affiliation to Serve MA & RI served at 9:30 am. Then enjoy a patriotic and finishes at the Taunton YMCA. There and fun. Wear your work out clothes and Home Care & Hospice of New England performance by the Brockton Swinging are divisions for every age group, with sneakers, free water bottles are provided. (HCHNE) and HopeHealth (HH) have Singers. The cost is $3.00 per person to prizes for top male and female, and top To register, email [email protected]. announced that they will form an affiliation attend. There is no charge for Veterans. three finishers in each group. Free child For more info, call 508-894-4328. that will serve Rhode Island and eastern care is provided to race participants for Make sure to sign-up at the front desk at the Council on Aging to attend no later Massachusetts, becoming the largest not- ages 4+. Join the Old Colony YMCA Brockton Historical Society Honors Congressman for-profit hospice and palliative care before or after the race for DJ entertain- than Tuesday, November 3rd. Visit The Brockton Historical Society recently ment, bouncy house, face painting, chil- brockton.ma.us/Information/Events. provider in New England. The move will held a special exhibition and presenta- dren’s activities, and a health and well- allow the organizations to advance their tion honoring the life of Congressman ness fair. The cost to enter is $20.00. Rogers & Gray Awarded “Best Agency to Work For” shared mission of enhancing the quality of Hastings Keith on the 100th Register by November 6th at jbrace.com. Insurance Journal, the nations top insur- life for people experiencing serious illness Anniversary of his birth. The Brockton ance industry trade publication, recently and their families. It will also create a diver- Historical Society is located at 216 North released their list of the Best Independent sified, $75 million dollar regional organiza- Mechanics Cooperative Bank Hires Sr. V.P. Pearl Street in Brockton and is open to Insurance Agencies to work for and tion that can thrive in a competitive and Mechanics Cooperative Bank Board of the public on the 1st and 3rd Sunday of complex healthcare environment. For more Directors and Executive Leadership Team Rogers & Gray Insurance was selected as the month from 2-4 pm. Visit brockton- information, visit hopehealthco.org. are pleased to announce the appointment the “Best Overall Agency” in the country. historicalsociety.org to learn more. www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report November 2015 5 MOBD Director Tours Metro South Businesses Plainridge Park Casino In Search of Vendors!

The Metro South Chamber of Commerce recently hosted Peter Milano, Special Event: Monday, November 9, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Senior Regional Director, Northeast of the Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD), for site visits of some of the great businesses operating in Looking for an exciting opportunity about your companies, and step by the Metro South region. Milano’s specialty area is in Life Sciences & Technology. to grow your business by becoming a step assist you in the licensing process. The Massachusetts Office of Business Development (MOBD) is the state's certified vendor? Chamber members Plainridge Park continues to seek one-stop source for businesses seeking to relocate to Massachusetts and busi- and local businesses are invited to out local suppliers for their many nesses wishing to expand their current operations here. For more information, attend a special event hosted by the needs. Plainridge Park Casino is visit mass.gov/hed/economic/eohed/bd. Massachusetts Gaming Commission at committed to working with MOBD Visits Chamber B.C. Tent & Awning Plainridge Park Casino, 301 Washington Street Plainville, on Monday November 9th from 9:00 am - 5:00 pm. This event will offer you an opportunity to grow your business by working with the burgeoning gaming industry in the Commonwealth of MA. The event will also introduce you to the vendor registration process, pro- Women-owned, Minority-owned, vide technical assistance to help you and Veteran-owned businesses. Peter Milano, Massachusetts Office of Business Development Peter Milano, MOBD; Bob Costa, President of Avon Industrial through the steps of registering on site If your business is interested in (MOBD); Alison van Dam, Vice-President of Business Park Association, B.C. Tent & Awning; Pat Ciaramella, Vice-Chair as a vendor with the MGC, and give learning more about licensing and Development/Operations, Metro South Chamber; Pat Ciaramella, Economic Development, Old Colony Planning Council; Francis your company insight to Plainridge registration process in advance, visit Old Colony Planning Council, Vice-Chair Economic Development; Crimmins, Avon Town Administrator tour the B.C. Tent & Awning Park’s purchasing program. at massgaming.com/licensing/ven- Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO facility located at the Avon Industrial Park. Visit bctent.com. Officials from the MGC Licensing dor-licensing-and-registration/. To Wrobel Engineering Weiss Sheet Metal Division, DOR and Plainridge Park register for the event, please e-mail Casino will be on hand to personally Jeannie Hebert at jhebert@black- answer your questions, hear more stonevalley.org or call 508 981 5782. Plainridge Park Casino Hosts Chamber Info Session The Massachusetts Gaming Commission recently held an info session for chambers of commerce at the new Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville. Pictured left: Paul Connelly, MA Gaming Elizabeth Wrobel, CEO of Wrobel Engineering; Peter Milano, Pat Ciaramella, Old Colony Planning Council; Peter Milano, Commission; Commissioner Bruce Stebbins, MA MOBD. Established in 1976 and located at 154 Bodwell Street MOBD; Brian DeLano V.P. Weiss Sheet Metal. For over 50 Gaming Commission; Eli Huard, Purchasing in Avon, Wrobel is proud to be a family-owned business in every Years, Weiss Sheet Metal has provided a wide variety of metal Manager, Plainridge Park Casino; Christopher sense. With unmatched quality and complete engineering, products, fabricating architectural and ornamental building Cooney, Chamber President & CEO machining, fabrication and assembly capabilities under one roof, products, facial panels, window flashing, roof copings and Wrobel is able meet the most demanding specifications in a more. Weiss Sheet Metal is located at 105 Bodwell Street in Cape Verdean Embassy Meets range of industries. Learn more at wrobeleng.com. Avon. Visit weiss-sheetmetal.com to learn more. with Chamber SEED Corp. Makes 76 Loans, 339 Jobs Left to right: Carla Brigham, Economic & Commercial Specialist and Raymond H. South Eastern Economic Development (SEED) Corporation announced Murphy, II, Deputy Chief of Mission of the U.S. recently that during Fiscal Year 2015, it made 76 small business loans totaling Embassy Praia - Cabo Verde, meet with $22.1 million, and assisting in the creation Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO of 339 new jobs. The loans were made to at the Metro South Chamber headquarters. businesses in the region under all of SEED's loan programs, which range from micro loans up to $50,000, small loans up Celebrate the Holidays with Brockton Parade to $200,000, and SBA 504 loans up to $5.5 million. For more information about the SBA 504 Program and other SEED loan Saturday, November 28, 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm programs, please call 508-822-1020 or visit SEED at www.seedcorp.com. The 29th annual Brockton Holiday The parade will begin at 1:00 pm in Parade will take place in Downtown front of the old BAT Terminal on Main Old Colony YMCA Expands in Stoughton Brockton on Saturday, November Street, ending at City Hall Plaza and 28, 2015, 1:00 pm. This year’s theme featuring creative floats, clowns, will be “125 Years of Celebration!” marching bands, and, of course, a These events will cel- very jolly man in red. ebrate 125 Years since Parking is available James Edgar donned that at the parking garage First Department Store located on the corner of Santa Suit – thus, chang- Main & Crescent Streets. ing the way we celebrate Join the Downtown the holidays world-wide! Brockton Association in Downtown activities will begin at this celebration! Register for a float by 9:00 am, including free photos with November 14, 2015 by visiting Old Colony YMCA’s Stoughton branch is undergoing a $4.2 million expansion on Central Street, which will add approximately Santa, Santa Hat Challenge, and more tinyurl.com/brocktonparaderegistra- 23,280 square feet to the existing building and create more parking spaces. Left: project in May; right: project in October at 142 Main Street in Brockton. tion or call 508-587-4322. 6 ACTION Report November 2015 www.metrosouthchamber.com Contacts Cooked up at Wood Palace Kitchens Candidates for Senate Address Chamber Photos by Rich Morgan, richmorganphotography.com

During a special Government Affairs Luncheon held in October, the Chamber hosted Candidates for Senate, State Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO; Ben Albanese, Tutto Guests enjoy delicious catering from Tutto Bene and freshly Representative Michael Brady (left) and State Representative Geoff Diehl (right). This program was sponsored by UMass Bene; Jonathan Brahmer, Trinity Financial Management baked desserts in the Wood Palace Kitchens working oven Boston. Don’t forget to get out and vote on Tuesday, November 3! BOARDProfile - John McGovern, CPA McGovern Business Board member? Currently Valuation since 2010, however this is my 5 Terry Lane second 8-year term. Bridgewater, MA 02324 (508) 944-7639 What is your Chamber involvement? Yea r E st a b l ish ed : 2014 Treasurer, member of Luke Racine, G.T. Reilly & Co.; Keith Greene, G.T. Reilly & Co.; Joan Hurkett, Hurkett & Associates; Executive Committee Caesar Cabral, Artisan Web; Raymond Hampton, Hampton Tech. Tim Ehlers, Concord Wealth Management Number of Employees: 1 What are some of the job Products or services: John McGovern positions you have held? Appraisal of businesses Partner at Rodman & Rodman, CPA’s, retired since 2014 What is your market area? Metro South and all of New England How long have you been at your present job? What is unique or special about the one year products and services you offer? I have been valuing local businesses What is your educational background? for over 30 years and have experi- UMass Amherst, New Jersey City ence with most industries. William Goldsmith, LifeTime Financial Strategies; Tim Holick, President/CEO of Wood Palace Kitchens welcomes a large University John Olivieri, J.K. Olivieri Insurance Agency, Inc. crowd to his showroom located at 7 Mill Street in Middleboro What is your main business objec- In addition, please list family and hob- tive concerning you customers & bies/interests you may have: Let Wood Palace Kitchens help you create your business community? My wife, Marty and I have two mar- dream kitchen! Their bright and talented team of To provide my opinion of the fair mar- ried sons - Zachary and his wife Lisa, seasoned and accomplished installers and sup- ket value of the subject company. and Dillon and his wife Lauren. I have port personnel make it easy. Visit their showroom at 7 Mill Street in Middleboro, three grandkids, Mona, Colin, and or go to woodpalacekitchens.com. How long have you been a Chamber Rosemary.

GRO-N-THINGS, INC. Banner Environmental Celebrates New Location Interior Plant Maintenance and Design Service P.O. Box 1246 Middleboro, MA 02346 Shelley Tierney 508.947.8433 (p) OWNER 781.767.2244 (f) SERVING AREA BUSINESS SINCE 1975

Above center: Stephen Wenzel and Stephanie Robl, owners of Banner Environmental, are presented with a citation from Representative Galvin, surrounded by Beth McKinnon, Office Manager; Eric Oakley, Estimator; Bob Costa, Avon Industrial Park Association; Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO; Chamber Board members, and Banner Environmental staff. They celebrated their new location at 254C Bodwell Street in Avon with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Banner Environmental specializes in asbestos removal, mold remediation, and asbestos sampling. Visit bannerenvironmental.com to learn more. www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report November 2015 7 Elected Officials and Business Leaders Meet at Legislative Reception

Fran Dillon, V.P. of Advancement, Stonehill College (host); Bob Stanley Hurwitz, Creative Communications; Maria Do Canto, Director of Diversity & Wisgirda, Metro South Resources, WVBR 1530 AM; Craig Pina, Francis Hegarty, Chairman of the Board of Selectman, Avon; Community Relations, Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office; Tim Cruz, Robin Howard, C&C Design Company, Commonwealth Financial, Candidate for Brockton Councilor at Large Michael Kane, Columbia Gas (Event Sponsor) Plymouth County District Attorney Rich Morgan, Rich Morgan Photography

Sponsored by:

Hosted by:

Photos by: Sue Joss, Chamber Chair and Ray Ledoux, Vice-Chair Government Affairs speak Ellen Morrisey Rota, Cardinal Spellman High School; Jeff Miller, Signature Healthcare; Reverend Jeff Johnson, First at the Legislative Reception at Donahue Hall on the Campus of Stonehill College David Willis, South Shore Bank Evangelical Lutheran Church; John King, Cirees Engineering

Lewis Victor, Law Office of Victor & Goldman; Shaynah Barnes, Nick Palantzas, Sr. Vice President, Massasoit Community College; Brockton City Councilor at Large Elect, Brett Gormley, Candidate for Brockton School Committee; Bruce Hughes, Old Colony Planning Council; Geoff Diehl, State Representative, Jim Benson, West Bridgewater Town Moderator; Office of Congressman Stephen Lynch Charlie Wall, President of Massasoit Community College Candidate for Senator; State Representative Shauna O’Connell John R. Buckley, Jr., Plymouth County Register of Deeds Last Chance to Advertise in Business Book! Advertise in the 2016 Book for Business The Metro South Chamber of Commerce is get- ting ready to publish the 2016 Book for Business (B4B), a four-color publication that includes a complete membership directory and guide to the Metro South region. The Book for Business is a valuable tool for you and your business. Why Advertise? • Exposure: the Book for Business is distributed to over 5,000 people and businesses in the region and receives over 10,000 views online annually. Advertising is a great way to put your business in the forefront of thousands of fellow businesses, city and state officials, visitors, and more! • It's Worthwhile: Advertising in the Book for Business is a one-time investment that you can benefit from all-year round. The Book for Business is distributed all year, and available for viewing online. • Convenience: Don't have the time to create and ad yourself or the money to pay a designer? Our in-house designer will create a full-color ad for you, free of charge. The ad is yours to use for additional promotions or other publications. • It's Cost Effective: Ad rates start at $450. In addition to your ad, your business listing will receive extra embellishment in the alphabetical and categorical list- ings, and be included on a Advertising Index page. Don’t miss the opportunity to place an ad in the 2015 Book For Business! Call Melanie at 508.586.0500 x 222 or email mmcgrath@metrosouthchamber.com for more information and for ad rates. 8 ACTION Report November 2015 www.metrosouthchamber.com MEMBERProfile Sec. Pollack; Brockton 2025 at Breakfast Photos: RichMorganPhotography.com, Sound: RobPetersEntertainment.com Video: Brockton Community Access

subsidized markets for all ages.

Please list awards, honors, or special recognition your firm has received: Tufts Health Plan continually ranks Fedra Ferro among the top health plans in the country based on quality and member Juan Lopera, Tufts Health Plan; Sue Joss, Chamber Chair, Brockton satisfaction. Our private HMO and Tufts Health Plan Neighborhood Health Center; Mayor of Brockton Bill Carpenter; MA Secretary of PPO plans are rated 5 - the highest rat- 705 Mount Auburn Street MA Secretary of Transportation Stephanie Pollack gives Transportation Stephanie Pollack; Ray Ledoux, BAT, Vice-Chair Government ing possible - by the National Watertown, MA 02472 updates on her latest “Capital Conversations” project Affairs; Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO Committee for Quality Assurance. (888) 257-1985 Only 11 plans across the country www.tuftshealthplan.com achieved this distinction. Our Medicaid plan is rated 4.5 out of 5. Year Established: 1979 Our Tufts Medicare Preferred HMO Products or Services: and Senior Care Options plans earned a 5 star rating - the highest rating pos- Medicare, Medicaid/subsidized plans, sible - from the Centers for Medicare and employer-sponsored health plans. and Medicaid Services for 2016. Number of Employees: 2,000+ What is your main business objective Mayor Bill Carpenter reveals his 10 year What is unique or special about your concerning your customers and the firm and the services you offer? business community? Ray Ledoux, Vice-Chair Government Affairs, plan for economic development, Juan Lopera, Director of Health Care Services BAT, emcees the breakfast program “Brockton 2025” at Tufts Health Plan ( event sponsor) Tufts Health Plan is one of the few To build & strengthen relationships in health plans in MA to participate in the the community to help us better serve our diverse membership. Our commu- commercial, Medicare and nity relations representative, Fedra Medicaid/subsidized markets, offering Ferro, is dedicated to serving the needs coverage across the life span regardless of communities in Southern of age or circumstance. Staying true to Massachusetts. Fluent in English, our mission of improving the health Spanish, Portuguese, and Cape and wellness of the diverse communi- Verdean Creole, Fedra is trained and ties we serve, we touch the lives of certified by the Health Connector as an more than one million members in “Issuer Enrollment Assister” to help Brenda Carrens, OCES; Gail Delgado, Brockton Area Arc; Lucille Massachusetts and Rhode Island. people apply for health plans through Josh Krevsky of Chamber Explorations talks about an upcoming Dallaire, OCES; Donna Sampson, The Shaw’s Center; Christine MassHealth and the Health Connector. travel trip to Cuba in partnership with the Metro South Chamber McLaren, OCES enjoy breakfast & networking What is your market area? Additionally, she also tends to the Massachusetts, Rhode Island needs of local community organizations, including health centers and hos- What markets do you serve? pitals. You can reach her at MassDOT Hosts Capital Conversations Commercial, Medicare & Medicaid/ [email protected]. The Massachusetts Department of Transportation recently launched its new pro- Now is the Time to Visit Cuba! gram called “Capital Conversations,” a series of community meetings to solicit input on potential 5 day trip transportation projects to be included in the agency’s upcoming five-year Capital Investment Plan (CIP) for Fiscal Years 2017-2021. The sixteen meetings, which are being held throughout the Commonwealth, began on Monday, October 19, and are scheduled to continue through Thursday, November 5, 2015. Those who are unable to attend the meetings are invited to join the Capital Conversation online by sharing their ideas by e-mailing [email protected]. Thoughts and ideas can also be shared by using www.mass.gov/massdot/cap- italconversations. Exotic rhythms, classic cars, exquisite colonial architecture, beautiful land- scapes, creative cuisine, legendary cigars... Small Business Rewarded for Wellness Cuba may only be 90 miles from Florida, but for half a century it's been large- ly off-limits to most Americans. This summer, President Obama announced the The Massachusetts Wellness Tax Credit gives small businesses in Massachusetts historic decision to re-establish diplomatic relations between Cuba and the U.S. a state tax credit for having an employee wellness program. This is an excellent and the U.S. Embassy in Havana was opened. opportunity for employers to help their employees live healthier lifestyles. Through a special OFAC license, The Metro South Chamber of Commerce Massachusetts businesses that employ 200 or fewer workers may qualify for the and Chamber Explorations invite you on a once in a life time journey to experi- tax credit for up to 25% of the cost of implementing a certified wellness program. ence the largest, least commercialized island in the Caribbean before trade barri- To receive certification, a business must: ers fall and the cultural fabric of the country is changed forever! 1.) Check to see that the business and wellness program qualify by visiting the The trip, departing March 24, 2016, is priced at $2,895. For more information Massachusetts Wellness Tax Credit page at mass.gov/wellnesstaxcredit. and full itinerary, please contact Alison van Dam at 508.586.0500 x231, avan- 2.) Certify its wellness plan by filling out an online application form by [email protected], or visit metrosouthchamber.com/events/travel. December 31, 2015 (http://webapps.ehs.state.ma.us/wellnessTaxCredit/) www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report November 2015 9 Banker & Tradesman: Brockton’s “Step in the Right Direction” from Banker & Tradesman article, “Step in the Right Direction,” by Steve Adams Brockton is a 35-minute train ride from Boston’s South Station and a Growth Could Fund Public Improvements century removed from its thriving era Brockton is exploring the state’s 12-year-old district improvement financing as an industrial hub that nearly 100 (DIF) program to leverage the tax growth associated with the Enterprise Block. shoe companies called home. The city hired Concord-based consultants A.G. Jennings LLC to study the The decline of the city’s manu- potential for DIF to pay for infrastructure and economic development plan- facturing base brought rising crime ning. The 12-year-old DIF program enables Bay State communities to establish and poverty, and the post-war sub- a district in which property tax revenues from new development are earmarked urban boom emptied the down- to pay for improvements. The DIF can be used to take out loans to pay for the town of many of its stores and improvements up-front, with the new taxes used to pay the debt service. restaurants. In 2015, the downtown has emerged as the focus of a multi-pronged The study calculated projected new taxes from the Enterprise Block and strategy to rebuild the city’s core. redevelopment of the Kresge Building at 121 Main St., where a developer is The initial phase of Boston developer Trinity Financial’s mixed-use Enterprise considering market-rate housing and retail. Block development, which opened in August, contains the first market-rate The increase in assessed value would generate revenues of nearly $500,000 apartments built in downtown Brockton in decades. and support a loan of $9 million that could be used to pay for DIF improve- “They’re focused on growing the economy, keeping up the pipeline of projects ments, according to the A.G. Jennings report completed in February. The figure and making sure the city and commonwealth continue to invest in Brockton,” said is based upon a 30-year term at 3.5 percent interest. Matt Zahler, senior project manager for Trinity Financial. “If they can do that, we can Adoption of the DIF is contingent upon city council approval, but the city continue to bring private investment on the scale they need to revitalize the city.” has already begun public outreach including a call for ideas for downtown Economic development officials view the 113 loft units as a potential down improvements. payment on a larger redevelopment program. The city is looking at breaking out the major tools for economic revitalization in the Bay State, including district Addressing Public Safety, Attracting Foot Traffic improvement financing (DIF) to pay for projects designed to make a 191-acre Many of the suggestions are designed to bring foot traffic back to the downtown, area safer for visitors and more attractive to investors. It’s considering a major which continues to be plagued by high vacancy rates and scant private investment. urban renewal project that could involve the acquisition of up to 44 acres of In community surveys, residents were underutilized properties for potential transfer to redevelopers. blunt about the area’s shortcomings. “A hundred years ago, there was a city An All-Or-Nothing Proposition here.” “No restaurants, no services, no Economic development took a backseat to fiscal austerity during the Great homes. Why would you be here?” Recession. The city laid off its planning director in 2008 and didn’t hire a replacement Some bright spots have emerged until mid-2014, more than a year after current Mayor Bill Carpenter took office. in recent years, with the decision of Downtown revitalization is now on the front burner, with the culmination of office supply company W.B. Mason the Enterprise Block first phase viewed as a key vote of confidence from the pri- to expand downtown, helped by vate sector and model for future development. Trinity Financial, which has $300,000 in state tax credits. developed a specialty building affordable housing in Gateway Cities, stepped But poverty and violent crime into the picture in 2011, nearly a year after Dedham-based Economic continues to influence local perceptions of the area. Brockton had the state’s Development Finance Corp. backed out of plans to redevelop the former news- highest murder rate in 2014, and the poverty rate lingers at 18 percent. paper headquarters spanning an entire block. More than 100 residents and downtown stakeholders attended a recent plan- It took two years for Trinity to assemble financing through a mix of state and fed- ning workshop, discussing the district’s shortcomings and talking about ideas eral tax credits for low-income housing for public programming such as festivals and farmers’ markets to generate more and historical preservation and a $4 foot traffic. million MassWorks infrastructure Ideas for how the DIF funds could be spent are already emerging. Abandoned grant, along with traditional debt and trolley tracks poke through Centre Street, which needs to be rebuilt, and the city equity. The state Department of would like to install a conduit for a new fiber-optic system that would increase Health and Human Services leased data capacity, said Rob May, Brockton’s director of planning and economic 29,000 square feet as anchor tenant for development and a former economic director in Somerville. A downtown the office space. ambassador-type program similar to the one in Boston’s Downtown Crossing “It kind of all had to happen. It was could alleviate pedestrian safety concerns. all or nothing,” Zahler said. “It was a The urban renewal project could encompass 44 acres surrounding the commuter Herculean effort to some degree.” rail station currently occupied by vacant parking lots, a pair of small restaurants and Trinity is in negotiations with private tenants for the remaining 18,000 square a used car dealership. If the city acquired the parcels, it could package them into larg- feet of office space. Triple-net rents are in the high teens to low-$20s per square er development blocks that would give developers more flexibility and speed of foot, with negotiable tenant improvements, Zahler said. Another 6,300 square acquisition as opposed to negotiating feet of retail or restaurant space also is on the market. with multiple owners, May said. The Enso Flats residential space is 100-percent leased in under three months, Stantec provided the city with a with 42 market rate units filling up first at rents ranging from $1,100 to $1,600. The massing study giving options for rest of the complex is restricted to artist lofts and affordable units for renters earn- building out the various parcels with ing a maximum of 60 percent of the area median income. the goal of maximizing the value of “We had a high-quality product that we delivered to an underserved pop- the development. ulation,” Zahler said. “A lot of it revolves around where Groundbreaking of the second phase – including 102 mixed-income apart- is the best bang for the buck in the city ments – is contingent upon receipt of an $11 million grant from the state’s in building a parking facility, and how A series of “Working Cities - Brockton Planning Team” meetings MassWorks infrastructure program for a parking garage with up to 371 spaces. do we use that to leverage develop- as well as “Transformative Development Initiative (TDI)” meet- The next round of grants will be announced later this month. Trinity Financial ment on other lots around down- ings were held at the Metro South Chamber recently to discuss would develop the garage and turn over ownership to the city upon completion. town,” May said. development of downtown Brockton. 10 ACTION Report November 2015 www.metrosouthchamber.com WELCOME New Members Chamber Affiliation News & Events Central Rock Gym JD Cleaning Corporation To become an affiliate organization of the Chamber, contact Christopher Mr. Ed Hardy Mr. Jair Dias Cooney at 508.586.0500 x 223 or email [email protected]. 445 High Street (888) 991-7433 The Bridgewater Business Association (BBA) is now accepting regis- Randolph, MA 02368 [email protected] tration for their Annual Christmas on the Common event held this (508) 579-2760 Cleaning/Janitorial www.centralrockgym.com year on Sunday, December 6. BBA Members receive a free booth as Athletics IM Wireless part of their membership benefits; non-members can reserve a booth Mr. Sharad Arora for $35. Booths will be available on a “first come, first served” basis. Citizens Bank 225 Bedford Street For more information or to register, please visit bridgewaterbiz. Ms. Joni Traficante East Bridgewater, MA 02333 20 North Park Avenue (508) 443-3380 The Stoughton Chamber of Commerce will hold a “Roast” of retired Fire Chief Plymouth, MA 02360 imwireless.net/locations/east-bridge- Mark Doloff on Friday, November 6 beginning at 7:00 pm at the (781) 710-8290 water-ma/ Portuguese National Club. Tickets are $25 and include delicious www.citizensbank.com Retail/ Telecommunications desserts. A portion of the proceeds will go to Learn to Cope, a non- Banks/Financial (see Ribbon Cutting page 11) profit organization for families dealing with drug addiction. Visit stoughtonma.com to purchase tickets and learn more. Home Depot To join the Chamber, Ms. Lucy Sheerin The mission of the Norwell Chamber of Commerce is to promote 715 Crescent Street Contact Alison van Dam the civic, economic, and social welfare of its members and the Brockton, MA 02302 508.586.0500 x 225 Town of Norwell. For more information, visit norwellcham- (508) 427-9970 [email protected] www.homedepot.com berofcommerce.com. Home Improvements The East Bridgewater Business Association (EBBA) will hold a Meet & Greet at Salon Espirit, 225 Bedford Street, Carriage RENEWINGMembers Thank You ! Crossing Plaza in East Bridgewater, on Tuesday, November 17th from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Please visit www.eastbridgewaterbiz.com Brockton Educational Foundation, Inc. Law Office of Mark D. Petti for more information. Cambridge Savings Bank Mansfield Bank - Easton Campello-Keith Heating Oil Company Metro South Resources The Avon Industrial Park Association is a non-profit group Cape Cod Cafe, Inc. MSW Financial Partners seeking to advance the advocacy and business of its members Capeway Aluminum & Vinyl, Inc. New Design Architects in public and private affairs. Membership is open to all com- Conway Insurance Agency, Inc. Old Colony Hospice panies who operate within the confines of Avon Industrial Park, Avon, MA. For Courtyard By Marriott - Raynham Philadelphia Insurance Companies more information, call Bob Costa at 508-586-0900. Visit avonindustrialpark.org. Curry College, Graduate & Continuing Residence Inn by Marriott-Brockton Studies Servpro of Brockton, Weymouth & The Randolph Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit cor- Eagle Elevator Company, Inc. Quincy poration founded in 1986 representing businesses in Randolph Edible Arrangements Sign Design, Inc. and the surrounding communities. The chamber provides lead- Fisher College South Eastern Economic Development ership in fostering business success, growth and development. Gentle Dental Brockton (SEED)Corp. Visit www.randolphchamberofcommerce.org. Italian Kitchen Spark Street Auto Body J.M. Pet Resort The Charlie Horse Restaurant Prolink Networking Group is an invitation-only, non-competitive Joe Angelo's Cafe & Deli The Mattress Maker of New England business networking group. Meetings are held on alternating Kent, Parker & Associates Timber Lanes, Inc. Tuesdays, 7:30 am at the Metro South Chamber of Commerce. For Law Office of Joseph M. Fidler Viking Sheet Metal, Inc. meeting schedule or more information, visit www.prolinknetworking.com or contact Craig Pina at 508-279-4194 or email [email protected]. Sue Joss Re-Elected Chamber Chair (cont.) The South Shore Women’s Business Network (SSWBN) will hold Joss was first elected to the Chamber Board in 2004, joining the executive a Lunch & Learn on Thursday, November 5 at Ameriprise, 25 committee in 2011 as Vice-Chair of Government Affairs. Recreation Road, Suite 100 in Hingham, from 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm. As the Chamber Chair, Joss will continue to work with the Board, Chamber Presented by Nancy O’Keefe of Simple Small Business Solutions, Staff, and membership to champion the Chamber in its mission to serve the learn how to save time, money, and execute your plans. This is a free event; interests of member businesses while providing community leadership and please bring your own lunch, no walk-ins. Visit www.sswbn.com to learn more. ensuring economic advancement throughout the Metro South region. Chamber Welcomes Intern Karen Exama Chamber Holds Retreat to Set Priorities (cont.) must adapt and evolve over the next decade, The Metro South Chamber of Commerce would like to before the Board drew on their experiences to welcome Karen Exama as a new intern at the Chamber. strategize about the Chamber’s priorities, growth Karen is currently attending Massasoit Community opportunities, member segments, and the orga- College where she will graduate this spring. Karen will be nizational value. These priorities will be released. transferring to a four year University for the fall, where she will pursue a career in Marketing. As a dedicated intern at the Chamber, Karen hopes to build upon her skills in communications, event planning, and advertising. If you are interested in hosting an intern from Chair-elect Gerry Nadeau, Rockland Trust, Massasoit at your business, please contact Internship Chamber Chair Sue Joss, Brockton Karen Exama, Neighborhood Health Center; Ian Scott, ACCE; Massasoit Community College Coordinator Tuuli McElroy at 508-588-9100, ext.1020, [email protected]. Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report November 2015 11 Pre-Certification Workshop Offered Celebrate New Business; Ribbon Cuttings!

Monday, November 9, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Please join us in celebrating the new businesses and renovations of existing businesses in the Metro South Region The Metro South Chamber will • Create partnerships with upcoming Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies and celebra- hold a Pre-Certification workshop at Since the start of the Supplier tions. Attend these complimentary events to welcome the Chamber building, 60 School Diversity Office in 2007, spending these businesses to the region and show your support for Street in Brockton, on Monday, with M/WBEs nearly doubled (dollars the growing business community. November 9 from 10:00 am - 12:00 in millions). For more information or to schedule a Ribbon Cutting at your business, please pm. This workshop will be presented contact Athena Lavoie, 508.586.0500 x231, [email protected]. by the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office. Braemoor Health Center Debuts Renovations To apply for certification Thursday, November 12, 4:00 pm as a Minority, Woman, and/or Braemoor Health Center, located at 34 North Pearl Street in Brockton, will Disadvantaged Business Enterprise, be hosting an Open House & Ribbon Cutting ceremony on Thursday, you must attend a Pre-Certification November 12 to celebrate their recently renovated facility. The Open House workshop. Take advantage of this will take place from 2:00 pm - 7:00 pm, with a Ribbon Cutting ceremony great opportunity to attend in Register now to attend this impor- beginning promptly at 4:00 pm. Guests are invited to stay for refreshments Brockton. Get information on how to tant workshop, complimentary. For and tours of the facility, as well as networking with fellow business and com- begin the certification process! information on how to register, please munity members. • Learn about new opportunities visit metrosouthchamber.com/calen- Braemoor’s vibrant facilities have been • Become more marketable dar-registration. expertly designed with wellness in mind, from their patient-centric, short-term Free Small Business Advising Sessions Available rehabilitation programs to their compas- sionate long-term care and respite care. Energetic, passionate, and profession- Tuesday, November 10 - by Appointment al, the skilled team at Braemoor Health Center brings years of experience to the care of every resident they serve. Learn more at braemoorhc.com. As a business owner, you have a entrepreneurs to highly respected and million decisions to make. You’re not experienced business owners who receive IM Wireless Store Opening This Month alone! The Massachusetts Small advice in the following areas: Financial Business Development Center management & loan assistance; Increased Friday, November 20, 11:00 am (MSBDC) can help you with profit & business growth; high quality, confidential, Business, marketing & The Metro South Chamber will come you to come experience their no cost business advice. strategic plans; Internet join premium wireless retailer IM more personal, one on one customer Entrepreneurs and marketing & social media; Wireless in celebrating the opening of service. The open house will be from small business owners are Understanding cash flow; their new store 11:00 am to 8:00 pm invited to meet with a Increasing sales, Lowering located at 225 on November 20th, Business Advisor, for hour-long ses- operating costs; Improving customer sat- Bedford Street in Ribbon Cutting cer- sions, at the Metro South Chamber of isfaction; Launching a business; Assisting East Bridgewater, emony at 11:00 am, Commerce, 60 School Street in with business plans; and more! with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at with refreshments offered to all of Brockton on Tuesday, November 10 Appointments are required and sub- 11:00 am on Friday, November 20. their attendees. Additionally IM and Tuesday, December 8, to discuss ject to availability. To schedule a session Your new local Verizon Wireless Wireless will be offering a 20% dis- anything from new business start ups at the Metro South Chamber, please call store is hosting an open house! IM count on ALL accessories as well as to existing business strategies. the MSBDC office at (508) 673-9783, Wireless invites you in to meet their exclusive discounts on certain phones MSBDC clients range from novice extension 10. knowledgeable and experienced sales and tablets. They are excited to have staff. Your East Bridgewater Verizon you celebrate their grand opening Save the Date! Gov. Baker to Address Chamber Wireless store is your one-stop-shop for with them! Visit imwireless.net to all of your wireless needs! They wel- learn more. Thursday, December 17, 7:30 am - 9:00 am Central Rock Gym Grand Opening, Randolph Please save the date for a special edition Good Morning Metro South breakfast with guest speaker Governor Charlie Baker on Thursday, December 3, 3:00 pm Thursday, December 17, 7:30 am - 9:00 am at the Conference Center at Massasoit, 770 Crescent Street in Brockton. Join us in celebrating the Grand Opening of new member Central Rock Charlie Baker was inaugurated on January 8th, 2015 as the Gym on Thursday, December 3, 3:00 pm, located at 445 High Street in 72nd Governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Randolph. Central Rock Gym will be celebrating their new location with a Elected in November of 2014 on a platform of making Ribbon Cutting ceremony, followed by free rock climbing, a climbing class, Massachusetts great for everyone, Governor Baker’s arrival in and gear for all attendees. Bring your kids after the Corner Office continues a long, successful career in both the private sector and school to check out their kids play area! public service where he has worked hard to put the people of Massachusetts first. Central Rock Gym exists to provide everyone Pre-register online now to reserve your seat and hear Governor Baker with a world class indoor climbing, fitness, and address the Metro South Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are $25 for members community experience through their state of the and $35 for future-members and include a full breakfast and networking oppor- art facilities, expansive climbing walls, cutting edge tunities. Please register online at metrosouthchamber.com/calendar or contact fitness equipment, professional yoga classes, and Athena Lavoie at 508.586.0500 x231, alavoie@met- various youth programs and summer camps. rosouthchamber.com. Central Rock Gym embraces its role as an integral This program is hosted by Massasoit Community part of the social fabric of all of their host cities and College and sponsored by Cambridge Savings Bank. communities. Learn more at centralrockgym.com. 12 ACTION Report November 2015 www.metrosouthchamber.com BUY LOCAL FROM THESE NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS!

Associated Energy Developers Central Rock Gym Atina Asian Bistro Join the Chamber for Great Benefits! YOUR BUSINESS PROFILE HERE...... When You Join the Chamber. Call Alison at 508.586.0500 x 225, or email: avandam@ metrosouthchamber.com

11 Resnik Road, Plymouth 445 High Street, Randolph 115 South Main Street, West Bridgewater 60 School Street, Brockton • 508-586-0500 x 225 888-800-2381 • www.assocenergy.com 781-885-2120 • www.centralrockgym.com 774-223-5800 • www.atinaasianbistro.com www.metrosouthchamber.com Associated Energy Developers (AED) is a south Central Rock Gym exists to provide everyone with Atina Asian Bistro is setting a new standard for Asian Join the Chamber and network your business to shore based renewable energy company focusing on a world class indoor climbing, fitness, and commu- restaurants. Expect fabulous décor that is sleek and success! The Chamber hosts informative meetings, commercial and industrial solar and wind projects. nity experience through our state-of-the-art facili- contemporary, friendly service, and a variety of differ- networking events, and puts you in touch with Learn how your business can save thousands of dol- ties, expansive climbing walls, cutting edge fitness ent dining options. Enjoy everything from sushi and your legislators. We also offer marketing and adver- lars a year in this exploding market. Contact us at equipment, professional yoga classes, and various Chinese classic dishes to hibachi-prepared dinner tising opportunities, referrals, publicity and expo- 888-800-2381, or online at www.AssocEnergy.com youth programs and summer camps. It is through with a show. Plus, with a large bar and lounge area sure. In addition, we offer Health Insurance pack- these many offerings that our CRG staff and mem- complete with TVs, you can still have a great time out ages and access to Comcast Savings, Discounts, and bers come together to build a community of even if you're not in the mood for a big meal. Energy Purchasing Programs. Call Alison to learn climbers and friends. more today!

BUSINESS EVENTS Planner IT’S EASY TO REGISTER! November 9 November 12 November 18 508-586-0500 x 231 Pre-Certification Workshop Ribbon Cutting Ceremony 102nd Annual Meeting & Expo 508-587-1340 10:00 am - 12:00 pm 4:00 pm 10:30 am - 3:00 pm E-mail: [email protected] Metro South Chamber of Commerce Braemoor Health Center Massasoit Conference Center Online: www.metrosouthchamber.com 770 Crescent Street, Brockton 60 School Street, Brockton 34 North Pearl Street, Brockton Send reservation and payment to: EXPO: 10:30 am - 12:00 pm & 1:45 pm - 3:00 pm Anyone interested in applying for certification as a Join Braemoor as they unveil new renovations, host Metro South Chamber of Commerce Minority, Woman, and/or Disadvantaged Business tours, networking, and refreshments. (See p. 11) Annual Meeting: 12:00 pm - 1:45 pm should attend this complimentary session. (See p.11) Sixty School Street Tickets $100 members, $135 future-members; Brockton, MA 02301-4087 Cost: Complimentary Cost: Complimentary Expo Tables: $499 members, $599 future-members Please RSVP at 508.586.0500 ext. 231 Register online at metrosouthchamber.com/calendar For more information, call 508-586-0500 x231 FIND US

facebook.com/metrosouthchambercommerce November 20 December 3 December 17 twitter.com/MetroSouth Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Good Morning Metro South 3:00 pm 7:30 am - 9:00 am 11:00 am linkedin.com/groups?gid=1830527 Central Rock Gym Conference Center at Massasoit IM Wireless/ Verizon Premium Retailer 445 High Street, Randolph 770 Crescent Street, Brockton 225 Bedford Street, East Bridgewater youtube.com/user/metrosouthchambercom Please join new member Central Rock Gym in celebrat- IM Wireless will celebrate their new location with a Enjoy breakfast and networking at our next Good Morning ing their Grand Opening with a Ribbon Cutting ceremo- Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, a Store Opening Sale, net- Metro South program, featuring guest speaker Governor ny, free rock climbing, gear, & lesson for all! (See p. 11) working, and more. (See p.11) Baker. Sponsored by Cambridge Savings Bank (see p. 11) flickr.com/photos/metrosouthchamber

Cost: Complimentary Cost: Complimentary Cost: $25 members, $35 future-members For more information, call 508-586-0500 x231 To register, call 508-586-0500 ext. 231 To register, visit metrosouthchamber.com/calendar issuu.com/metrosouthchamber