April 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

Vinny’s Casa Grande at theTaste of Metro South, page 6

LoJack Ribbon Cutting, page 5

Leading BusinessesLeading Communities

April2012

www.metrosouthchamber.com

Paul Souza at STEM event,page 7

Chamber Advocates for Rail Service

Small Biz Awards & EXPO

report

Printing Donated bythe Enterprise

Call for Award Nominations & Exhibitors The 2012 Small Business and Entrepreneur of the

Year Awards will be presented at a special Luncheonon Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 12pm at the Shaw’sCenter, Brockton.

The Small Business and Entrepreneur Awards arepresented to businesses that have displayed employ-ment/staying power, growth, innovation and socialresponsibility. We are now accepting nominations,see page 9 for more criteria.

Also at the Luncheon will be an informativekeynote speaker. Past speakers have includedMonster.com creator Jeff Taylor and Boston GlobeTechnology Columnist Scott Kirsner.

Wednesday, May 16 • Shaw’s Center

The Metro South Chamber of Commerce's AnnualLegislative Luncheon will be held on Thursday,April 12 at 12:00 p.m. at Rondileau Campus CenterBallroom on the campus of Bridgewater StateUniversity.

The keynote speaker forthe event is AttorneyGeneral Martha Coakley.

Re-elected to her secondterm as Attorney General in2010, Martha Coakley hasdevoted her career to pro-tecting children and publicsafety, standing up for con-sumers and taxpayers, andfighting for equality for all.Attorney General Coakley

has charted a career as a distinguished prosecutor onthe state and federal levels before serving asMiddlesex District Attorney and now as theCommonwealth’s first female Attorney General.

First elected as Attorney General in 2006, Coakleyquickly confronted the challenge of addressing the

economic crisis that gripped our country shortlythereafter. Her office became a national leader in hold-ing Wall Street accountable by bringing first-of-their-kind actions against investment giants such asMorgan Stanley and Goldman Sachs.

During these difficult economic times, Coakley hasalso successfully worked to reduce costs for con-sumers and taxpayers and vigorously prosecutedcases of corruption and fraud. During the 2010 fiscalyear alone, her office recovered more than $660 mil-lion for taxpayers based on her office’s budget of $37million. Her office has saved families and businesseshundreds of millions of dollars by challenging utilityrate increases, and recovered over $100 million inMedicaid fraud prosecutions - a record for the office.

The Legislative Luncheon is a great networkingopportunity. To register or for further informationcall the Chamber at 508.586.0500 ext. 225 or by reg-istering online at events.metrosouthchamber.com.The cost to attend is $39 for members and $49 forfuture-members. This event is sponsored by BSUand Massasoit Community College. See page 8 forconfirmed legislators attending the luncheon.

Thursday, April 12, 12:00 pm, Bridgewater State University

Attorney General Coakley to Speak at Legislative Luncheon

ATHENA Awards & EXPOThursday, June 14 • Shaw’s Center

On Thursday, June 14, at theShaw’s Center, Brockton,the Metro South Chamberof Commerce andHarborOne Credit Unionwill present the 14th AnnualATHENA Award during aspecial breakfast to anexceptional individual whohas achieved excellence inhis/her business or profes-sion, has served the com-munity in a meaningfulway, and has assistedwomen in reaching their fullleadership potential.

Continued on page 8 Continued on page 9

Premier Sponsors:

Attorney General Martha Coakley

Contributing Sponsor:

Keynote Speaker:Michele McPhee, InvestigativeReporter for WCVB Channel 5

The Metro South Chamber ofCommerce is advocating for con-tinued commuter rail servicealong the Old Colony Rail Lineserving Brockton and the MetroSouth Region. The advocacycomes on the heels of the MBTAannouncing possible service cutsto communities includingBrockton and Bridgewater.“Commuter rail service has trans-formed entire neighborhoodsalong the rail and especially inthe City of Brockton,” saidChamber President and CEO,Christopher Cooney. The MBTAis facing a projected budgetdeficit in 2013. The commuter railtransportation system is an essen-tial asset that contributes greatlyto the economic well-being of theregion. Eliminating portions ofthe transit service will compoundthe negative effects currentlybeing felt on the economy withinregion. The Chamber stronglyurges the MBTA, MassDot andthe Commonwealth to continuecommuter rail operations fund-ing and its current schedule, tosupport sustainable means offunding mass transit, and toencourage the use of transit taxcredits as a means to reduce thedeficit. “Commuter rail has per-manently connected the MetroSouth region to Boston, the hubof New England. We would liketo see this link strengthenedthrough better, more reliable on-time service. Further, we wouldlike to see an increased number ofscheduled trains providinggreater use and value to thisregion,” said Chamber Presidentand CEO, ChristopherCooney. “This proposal to cut railservice is a proposal to derailprogress,” he went on to say.

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

2 ACTION Report April 2012 www.metrosouthchamber.com

May is membership month at theChamber. The month-long campaign willend in a membership drive at the end ofMay. If you are a Chamber member whowould like to participate in the drive inorder to form a stronger business commu-nity and express to others what Chambermembership has meant to you, please con-

tact Kathleen Lynch at 508.586.0500 x 229 or email [email protected]. We are also accepting prize donations for drive participants. Visit met-rosouthchamber.com to learn more about the Chamber.

Becoming a member of the Metro South Chamber provides your businessopportunities to accelerate its growth. For more information, email [email protected].

May is Membership Month, Join the Chamber Now!

someone who is. Chamber member-ship is affordable no matter how smallyour business - 70% of our membershave 10 or fewer employees - and itprovides your business with tremen-dous opportunity.

There are many exciting incentivesfor joining today, including free radioand print advertising, free admissionto several Chamber events, amazingdiscounts and more. To discuss howthe Chamber can help you build astronger business, call Kathleen at(508) 586-0500 ext. 229, or [email protected].

Becoming a member of the MetroSouth Chamber of Commerce providesyour business opportunities to accelerateits growth. When you join the Chamber,you become a leader within the businesscommunity and a member of theregion's most dynamic advocacy organi-zation. Membership means potentialnew business prospects, new savings,access to valuable resources and infor-mation, access to health and dentalplans, a variety of marketing opportuni-ties and more, for you and your business.

If you are not currently a Chambermember, take this opportunity to listen to

Join the Chamber Today!

Look for theChamber of Com-merce 2012 MetroSouth Book forBusiness in April. Thebook features area din-ing, lodging, publicgolf courses, recre-ation, legislative lead-ers, community demo-graphics, regional andeconomic data and acomplete membershiplisting. The book alsoincludes a full colormap of the MetroSouth region and highlights hotels, golfcourses, industrial parks, town hallsand other points of interest.

Copies of the Book are being dis-

tributed through-out the region tobanks, real estateoffices, town halloffices, allChamber mem-bers, area colleges,libraries, and sentto all relocatingbusinesses andfamilies interestedin the Metro Southarea. 4,000 copiesof the Directorywill also be mailedout to additional

Metro South businesses. For more information on the

Book, contact Alison van Dam at508.586.0500 x 222.

Book for Business Arriving This MonthBusiness After Hours at Tutto Bene

Please join us on Wednesday, April 18from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm for a ChamberBusiness After Hours networking eventat Tutto Bene located at 1050 Pearl Street,Brockton.

Pasta Bene is now Tutto Bene! They’vechanged the name, but everything elsestays the same, same people, location and

April 18, 2012, 5:30 - 7:30 pm great food. Offering the best inauthentic Italian food and we still sellour fine pasta products under thePasta Bene name in our retail shop. Inaddition to traditional Italian cuisine,Pasta Bene also offers contemporaryMediterranean fare. Open Tuesdays-Saturdays 10am-10pm. Also offeringcatering options and trivia everyWednesday night. For more informa-tion, visit www.benemeansgood.com

This event is $5 for members and$15 for future-members and includescomplimentary hors d’ouevres.Register by calling Kim at 508.586.0500x 231, email [email protected] or registeronline at events.metrosouthcham-ber.com. As always, don’t forget yourbusiness cards!

FEEDback Forum with the Phantom Gourmet: Wednesday, April 184:00 pm, Tutto Bene (Prior to Business After Hours)Restaurant industry representatives are invited to speak with DaveAndelman, President of the Restaurant and Business Alliance & CEOof Phantom Gourmet. Join us and share your questions and con-cerns for the Massachusetts Restaurant and Business Industry. RSVPto Kimberly Prosper, [email protected],508.586.0500 x 231. Visit www.restaurantandbusinessalliance.com.

Join theMetro South

Chamber for anOpen House network-ing event at Abington Bank, 6Harrison Avenue in, Abington onTuesday, May 22 from 5:30 pm -7:30 pm.

Looking for great rates? Tiredof the “big bank” impersonal serv-ice? Then it’s time you tried thetruly local alternative - AbingtonBank. Abington Bank has been qui-etly meeting the financial needs offamilies and individuals since 1888.

They are proud of theirrecord and proud to be local.Abington Bank is alsoinvolved in many fundraisersand giving back to the com-munity. 24 ATM available.For more information about

Abington Bank, call 781-878-0045 or visittheabingtonbank.com.

This is a casual event that presents agreat way to make business contacts, sobring plenty of business cards! In addi-tion, refreshments will be served. Thisevent is free of charge, but reservationsare required. To register, visitevents.metrosouthchamber.com, callKim at 508.586.0500 x 231 or [email protected].

BUSINESS

OPEN HOUSE

Join the Chamber at Abington Bank Open HouseTuesday, May 22, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm, Abington

Did You Know? ...• Consumers are 44% more likely to think favorably of a chamber member business• Consumers are 51% more likely to be highly aware of a business that is a chamber

member and 57% more likely to think positively of its local reputation• Consumers are 64% more likely to buy good and services from a chamber member• Businesses are 37% more likely to think favorably of a chamber member business,

51% more likely to be highly aware of it, 58% more likely to think positively of its local reputation and 59% more likely to buy goods and services from it

• 82% of people believe that the local chamber of commerce helps create jobs andpromotes local economic development.

The results are clear: Positive perception increases among consumers and businessowners when a business is identified as a member of the local chamber of commerce.

National Study courtesy of the Schapiro Group

The Massachusetts BiotechnologyCouncil (MassBio) will present aCommunity BioReady Seminar with thepurpose of providing background tomunicipal officials about the biotechindustry and guidance on how to posi-tion a municipality as a destination forbiotech laboratory and manufacturingfacilities. The topics presented in the sem-inars includes a background on thebiotech industry, its economic impact,facility requirements of biotech laborato-ry and manufacturing space, bio-safety,and municipal approvals practices that

Community BioReady Seminar

are conducive to supporting biotechopportunities.

The seminar will be held on Friday, May18th, location and time TBD. Please con-tact Lisa Keene, 508-586-0500, ext. 225 oremail [email protected] more information.

www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report April 2012 3

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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 4(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

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

APRIL Calendar4 Ambassador Meeting

10 Enterprise Career DayThe Shaw’s Center, 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton

12 Legislative LuncheonRondileau Campus Center, Bridgewater State University

16 Patriot’s Day - Chamber Closed

18 Business After Hours at Tutto Bene1050 Pearl Street, Brockton (FEEDback Forum at 4:00 pm)

20 Employment Law Update

26 SCORE E-Commerce Workshop - Internet Marketing

28 China Trip Info SessionBrockton Public Library, 304 Main Street, Brockton

Coming Up May1 SCORE E-Commerce Workshop - Social Media

2 Ambassador Meeting

3 Principles of Lean Manufacturing15 Executive Board Meeting

34 School Street, Brockton16 Small Business Awards & EXPO

The Shaw’s Center, 1 Feinberg Way, BrocktonEXPOLuncheon & Awards

18 BioReady Seminar22 Open House at Abington Bank

6 Harrison Avenue, Abington24 Investigating Concerns in a Fragile Market

28 Memorial Day - Chamber Closed

30 Board Meeting

31 Quickbooks Workshop

Save the DateJune

6 Ambassador Meeting

6 Business After Hours - Bernardi of Brockton 300 Manley Street, Brockton

8 Government Affairs12 Financial Statements for Small Businesses

14 ATHENA Awards Program & EXPOShaw’s Center, 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton

15 SDO Pre-Certification Workshop27 Business After Hours/Ribbon Cutting

Holiday Inn Express, 195 Westgate Drive, Brockton29 SDO Connecting Your Business to the Commonwealth

Note: All meetings are held at the Metro South Chamber Office or Metro South Business Assistance Center (BAC) unless otherwise indicated.

CHAMBER STAFF 508-586-0500 Front Desk x 221

Christopher Cooney, CCEPresident and CEO x 223

Kimberly ProsperProgram Director x 231

Kerry SullivanFinance x 230

Alison van Dam, IOMDirector of Communications x 222

Lisa KeeneBusiness Development x 225

Kathleen LynchMembership Director/ Connecting Activities Interim x 229

Newsletter Designed by Alison van Dam

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 HealthcareRobert Kenworthy - Bank of America

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


GOODNewsCelebrate the great things going on!

HarborOne Donates $111,440 to United WayThis year, HarborOne employees pledged$55,720 to the United Way of GreaterPlymouth County, and the Board ofDirectors of HarborOne voted to match thatamount for a total of $111,440. HarborOneCEO, James Blake, praised his staff andBoard for being so generous. “During thesechallenging economic times, many of ourneighbors are having painful difficulties. Soit is important to support local agencies suchas the United Way of Greater PlymouthCounty.”

June Goguen Named SBA’s Award WinnerJune Goguen, vice president of BridgewaterSavings Bank, has been named the U.S.Small Business Administration’s 2012Massachusetts Women in BusinessChampion award winner. The Women inBusiness Advocate award is presentedannually to an individual who has fulfilled acommitment to the advancement ofwomen’s business ownership. Ms. Goguenwill be honored at an SBA awards celebra-tion along with the other MassachusettsSmall Business Week 2012 winners at anevent at Fenway Park on June 6, 2012.

Mechanics Cooperative “Saves a Life”In an effort to support the Southcoast BloodBank, the region’s only local blood donorprogram, Mechanics Cooperative BankRua-Dumont-Audet Insurance, have creat-ed a little friendly competition. These twocommunity business leaders have encour-aged others to “give a pint and save a life”through the Southcoast Health Van. Thisyear’s was extremely close with MechanicsCooperative Bank retaining the title by aslim margin of 66 pints compared to RDA’s59 pints. The 125 pints donated representsan amazing two-day total that theSouthcoast Health Van is not used to seeing,with 30 usually being on the very high endof the scale.

Landerholm Presented BHS Alumni AwardCarl W. Landerholm will be presented the2012 Distinguished Alumni Award by theBrockton High School Alumni Association.The award is presented annually to a BHSgraduate whose outstanding service hasgiven back to the Brockton community andbeyond. Carl will receive the award at theBrockton High School Spring Concert. TheConcert will be held at the BHS Auditoriumon Tuesday April 10, 2012 at 7:30 PM.Tickets can be purchased at the BHSAdministration Building from 8 AM to 2 PMon weekdays and on the evening of theconcert at the door. Landerholm will behonored at a preconcert reception in theAzure Café at Brockton High School. Thereception will begin at 5:30 pm and con-clude at 7 PM. All alumni and communitymembers are welcome to attend.

Join the Green TeamDo you love to garden? Love children?Have some time to volunteer? Become partof the Children’s Museum in Easton’sGreen Team and help contribute to chil-dren’s love and appreciation of all thingsgrowing and green! Green TeamVolunteers will receive a complimentary teeshirt and, for a minimum commitment ofhours, a free Museum membership foryour family or as a gift to a friend or relative.For more information call the Museum at508-230-3789 or email [email protected]

Crescent Credit Union Receives Training GrantCrescent Credit Union has been awarded aTraining Grant from the MassachusettsWorkforce Training Fund in the amount of$67,676.00. The proposed training plan is ofa comprehensive nature, and addressestraining needs within the credit union, suchas Commercial Sales Leadership, and train-ing in Quality & EfficiencyProcesses. Employees from every level willparticipate in the training, which will takeplace over the course of two years. Thisproject is funded by a Workforce TrainingFund grant through the Commonwealth ofMassachusetts, Executive Office of Laborand Workforce Development. The grantprogram is administered by theCommonwealth Corporation.

Siskind Named Chair of HarborOne BoardLawrence (Larry) Siskind has been namedChairman of the Board at HarborOne. Mr.Siskind is a life-long resident of Brocktonand has been a well-respected attorney forthe past 45 years. He conducts his law prac-tice with his son Neal at Siskind & Siskind,LLC in Brockton. Mr. Siskind has been anactive member in the Plymouth Countyand Massachusetts Bar Associations andreceived their prestigious CommunityService Award in 2007. He has always beenactive in the City’s civic affairs and present-ly serves as a Trustee of the BrocktonHistorical Society where he was Chairmanfor 10 years; a founding director of the Boys& Girls Club of Brockton; a director of theBrockton Area Private Industry Counciland a director of the Metro South Chamberof Commerce. In 2009, the Brockton HighSchool Alumni Association presented himwith its distinguished alumni award.

Costco Wholesale InkJet Refill ProgramCostco Wholesale is offering an inkjet car-tridge refill service, $7.99-$9.99 on select HP,Canon, Lexmark and Dell cartridges. Saveup to 70% when compared to new car-tridges. See the full list of supported car-tridges at www.costcoinkrefill.com. Costcois located at 120 Stockwell Drive, Avon. Formore information, contact Nicole True at

781-706-3477.

UMass Club Spring Fling Open HouseThe UMass Club will be hosting a SpringFling Open House on Wednesday, April11th from 5:30-7:30 PM. Enjoy an eveningof springtime fun with a stunning view ofBoston Harbor, complimentary hors d’oeu-vres and beverages, and an opportunity tomingle with Club Members! RSVP's arerequested by email to [email protected] or call 617.287.3030. www.umass-club.com Address: 225 Franklin Street, 33rdFloor, Boston, MA 02110

Annual Peter Mareb Memorial LectureThursday, April 12: 21st Annual PeterMareb Memorial Lecture at StonehillCollege will offer patients a look at theirdoctors' nots in a program called "The OpenNotes Project." The keynote speaker will beTom Delbanco, M.D., Professor of GeneralMedicine and Primary Care at HarvardMedical School and Beth Israel DeaconessMedical Center. A reception at Stonehill'sJoseph W. Martin Jr. Institute for Law &Society on Route 123 will be held at 6pmwith the lecture following at 7:15 and aquestion and answer period to follow.RSVP to Donna at [email protected] call 508-565-1131.

Mobfellas show at St. Joseph ManorSaturday, April 14: Mobfellas show, present-ed by Mystern Cafe, sponsored by St.Joseph Manor. Just us for a night of food,cocktails and laughter at the MassasoitConference Center in Brockton. Cocktailsat 6pm, dinner and show at 6:30 pm. $65per person or $600 per table of ten. Ticketsavailable at St. Joseph Manor, 215 ThatcherStreet, Brockton, or by calling 508-584-5834.You may also email [email protected].

Grow Associates Philharmonic FundraiserSunday, April 22: Grow-Associates, Inc., isfeaturing the Southeastern PhilharmonicOrchestra, in a fund-raising concert at theChapman Middle School Auditorium,located at 1051 Commercial Street,Weymouth, MA. The concert will begin at2:30 P.M., and tickets may be purchased atthe door for $10 each, or in advance for $9each - just call Grow's office at 508-408-4210.Please call that same phone number for fur-ther information, including how you canplace an ad in the concert program book, orbe listed as a patron/donor.

SHUP Annual Fundraising GalaSaturday, April 28: South Shore HaitiansUnited for Progress (SHUP) AnnualFundraising Dinner Gala. 8pm at theLatana, 43 Scanlon Drive, Randolph. Yourdonations and sponsorship will allow us tocontinue providing Job Readiness, ESOL,and Computer Training, among other serv-ices. We will be joined by the Group Taboo

Combo for entertainment Dr. Paul Farmerfrom Partners in Health will be Master ofCeremony and Dr Mercier will be ourguest of honor. We promise to offer amemorable evening by spoiling you withgreat food and performances from vari-ous talents within our Haitian communi-ty. Visit www.sshup.org or call 508-944-1970.

School on Wheels Road Race & Fun WalkSaturday, April 28: Register now to walkor run in Outrunning Homelessness, thesecond annual fundraising Road Race &Fun Walk for School on Wheels ofMassachusetts. 9am at Borderland StatePark in Easton (registration starts at 8am).Proceeds will provide one-on-one after-school tutoring, new backpacks andschool supplies, and educational advoca-cy and academic support for children andteens impacted by homelessness. Formore information, visit sowma.org oremail [email protected].

Give Your Old Bike A New LifeIn celebration of Earth Day, donate yourbike to Stairway to Recovery, a peer driv-en community based enter located inBrockton that assists individuals and fam-ilies who have been negatively impactedby alcohol or drug addiction. Kids’ bikeswill be donated to the Boys and Girls Clubwhich provides fun after school programsfor youth age 6-10 in a safe environment.Donations accepted will be street andmountain bikes in working condition,bike tools, bike accessories, older bikes infair condition to be recycles, and financialdonations (made payable to MassasoitCommunity College Foundation. Bringyour bike to Massasoit CommunityCollege in Brockton by April 25 (email [email protected]) or Old ColonyPlanning Council, 70 School Street,Brockton (email [email protected]).

MY TURN’s Hero Awards BanquetOn Thursday, May 18, please joinGovernor Michael Dukakis and KittyDukakis as well as former mayor JackYunits and Lees Yunits as honorarychairs at this year’s MY TURN's AnnualHERO Awards Banquet "Global Village,held at the Massasoit ConferenceCenter in Brockton. At the event, theHERO award will be presented toBarry Koretz, principal owner of BKAassociates and the outgoing presidentof HarborOne Credit Union's Board ofDirectors. Also honored will be Dr.David Mudd, Past President of CaritasHospital Physicians and WillettsSilkworth, VP of Crescent Credit Unionand MY TURN board member. TheMC will be Pam Cross, WCVB-Tv'snews anchor. For tickets and info, call508-580-2659 x 205 visit www.my-turn.org.

Send your Good News to [email protected]

LoJack Corporation President & CEO Randy Ortizcuts the ribbon marking the grand opening ofLoJack Corporation’s global headquarters locatedat 40 Pequot Way in Canton, MA in March. Electedofficials, including state representative WilliamGalvin, employees, community members, and Chamber representatives were on hand to welcome the company.The new facility is home to approximately 200 employees. LoJack Corporation is the worldwide leader in findingand recovering a wide range of stolen assets from cars and construction equipment to people with cognitive con-ditions. For more information, visit www.lojack.com.

www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report April 2012 5

* 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 May 1. For more information and fullitinerary, contact Alison van Dam at 508.586.0500 x 222 or email [email protected]

BeijingVisit Tiananmen Square, Temple ofHeaven, Forbidden City, the SummerPalace, Kunming Lake, Longevity Hill,Great Wall and 13 Ming Tombs.SuzhouSightseeing includes the LingeringGarden, Tiger Hill and Hanshan Templeand National Embroidery Institute

HangzhouTake a cruise on the West Lake,visit toLingyin Temple with 64.3 ft-high Buddha,and visit the Economic Development ZoneShanghaiSightseeing includes the Yu Garden,the Bund, Business visit to the PudongEconomic Development Zone, andShanghai Carpet Mill.

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

Kathleen Lynch Named Membership Director

Kathleen Lynch has been named thenew Membership Director at the MetroSouth Chamber of Commerce, providingmembership services to business membersthroughout the Metro South Region.

Kathleen will be responsible for the devel-opment and implementation of theChamber’s membership recruitment planand will assist new members with strength-ening their business through increased mar-keting and networking within the businesscommunity.

Kathleen began her career at the Chamberas an intern through Bridgewater StateUniversity. More recently, she served asConnecting Activities Coordinator, connect-ing youth to employers by providing mean-ingful worksite experience, building aca-demic, technical and workplace skills.

Kathleen Lynch can be contacted [email protected], or bycalling 508.586.0500 x 229.

“Brockton Knocks Down Diabetes” This June

Catholic Charities Celebrates Grand Opening

LoJack Corporation Moves Headquarters to Canton

The incidence of both Type I and Type II diabetes inBrockton is higher than the statewide average with childhoodobesity becoming a major concern in the Brockton Schoolsand adult onset diabetes being a problem in ethnic communi-

ties. Brockton will be “Knocking Down Diabetes” with an intensive city-wide twoweek campaign running from June 9-June 23. Activities will include a Tradeshowand Fair, free admission to the YMCA and health clubs, healthy recipe submission,and free workshops and presentations, culminating with a “Walk, Just For Walking”at June 23 at HarborOne Credit Union. More than 30 organizations will be partici-pating in the campaign. For more information, contact Leo MacNeil at 508-895-1314.

Free Info Session: Saturday, April 28, 20122:00 pm at the Brockton Public Library, 304 Main St., Brockton

South Region Bishop John A.Dooher holds the ribbon forCatholic Charities presidentDeborah Rambo during theMarch 1 grand opening andribbon cutting ceremony ofCatholic Charities South’snew location at 169 CourtStreet in Brockton. Photocourtesy of Monika I. Bach,Catholic Charities. For moreinformation, call 508-587-0815 or visit www.ccab.org

The Avon Industrial Park Association (AIPA) was recentlyformed to serve as an advocate for the Avon Industrial Parkand member businesses and to help the Avon community.Issues of concern include the possibility of sewerage in the

town and park beautification. For more information, callBob Costa at 508-586-0900.

Chamber Affiliation News & Events

The East Bridgewater Business Association (EBBA) will holdtheir 20th Annual Meeting on Tuesday, April 17, 6pm-9pm at T.J.Smith’s Victorian House, located at 13 Cross Street in EastBridgewater. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advanceby calling Joe at 508-378-7436.

The Stoughton Chamber of Commerce will host itsmonthly meeting on Monday, May 7, 11:30 am - 1:00 pmat Alta at Indian Woods. The topic will be RetirementPlans for Business Owners. The presentation will be pre-sented by Mark Cohen of Ameriprise Financial. BillConsidine, Ameriprise regional retirement plan expert for greater NE will bethe guest speaker. For more information, visit stoughtonma.com

The Norwell Chamber of Commerce presents “MeetYour Local Business Owners”on Tuesday, April 10,5:30 pm - 7:30 pm at Rockland Trust, 2036Washington Street in Hanover. This is a free net-working event with expo format. For more informa-

tion, contact Roberta Sousa, 781-878-7440, [email protected].

To become an affiliate organization of the Chamber, contact ChristopherCooney at 508.586.0500 x 223 or email [email protected].

The Bridgewater Business Association (BBA) will host the 2012Meet & Greet on Tuesday, April 10 from 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm at theBridge Center, 470 Pine Street, Bridgewater. This event is opento all businesses and will include complimentary food and cock-

tails, prizes, guest speakers and topics relative to the business climate. Visitwww.bridgewaterbiz.biz for more information and featured speakers.

AIPAAvon Industrial Park Association


“Taste” Featured 55 Restaurants, Electra 225 Funk Band, Big TopThe 20th Annual “A Taste of Metro South” entertained a crowd of over 700 people with food, music, and fun. The evening promoted many of the positive aspects of living in the Metro South Region. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Metro South Chamber of Commerce Foundation for Education. Photos by Amilcar Monteiro. Visit www.flickr.com/photos/metrosouthchamber, or visit www.metrosouthchamber.com/taste.html to see all photos from the event.

Taste of Metro South Cake, Costco Wholesale, Avon Brockton High School Fine Arts Cafe Brazil Grill Olde Hitching Post Restaurant & Tavern

Christo’s Restaurant Donna’s Love Bites

Smith’s RestaurantFreda’s Fine Food & Spirits The Shaw’s Center

Fishtail Kitchen Indian CuisineEdible Arrangements

Stoneforge Grille

Cafe Francesca

Vinny’s Casa Grande

Thank you to all participants!To see a list of all those who participated, including contact information for all

restaurants, organizations and entertainment acts, visitwww.metrosouthchamber.com/taste.html

Brockton High School Jazz Band George Cataldo, “The Silver Fox”

Electra 225 Band Over 700 people attend the 20th Annual Taste

www.metrosouthchamber.com ACTION Report April 2012 7m

In response to Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray's "WOWInitiative" to promote STEM (Science, Technology,Engineering and Mathematics) education acrossMassachusetts, the Metro South Connecting ActivitiesPartnership, a collaboration of the Brockton Area WorkforceInvestment Board and the Metro South Chamber ofCommerce, held the 1st Annual STEM Career ExplorationEvent at Bridgewater State University on March 7th, 2012. Thegoal of this event, which was sponsored by the Office of

Regional Outreach at Bridgewater State University, was to expose youth to avariety of STEM Careers in a fast paced, “speed networking” style setting.

In ten minute segments, eighty-five local high school students from the MetroSouth region shifted from table to table to discuss career options with professionalsfrom various STEM fields, such as video game development, forensics, engineeringand health services. Several volunteer BSU students also spoke with youth aboutcollege life and coursework. “The goal was to motivate youth to start thinking aboutthe future. We wanted to expose them to the broad range of career opportunitiesavailable in STEM," said Kathleen Lynch, the coordinator of this event.

“What was magic about the STEM Career Exploration event was that itopened a window of awareness that could lead many students toward careers inSTEM,” said Wini Dillon, a science teacher at Stoughton High School.

Dr. Arthur Goldstein, Dean, BSU's College of Science and Mathematics, deliv-ered a dynamic keynote which focused on STEM research needed across theglobe, such as earthquake prediction, sustainable energy, disease research, andspace exploration. He told the students that in order to succeed they must pur-sue a path that interests them. "Follow your passion and I'm confident you willdo marvelous things," he said.

The event concluded with a tour of the new The Marshall Conant ScienceBuilding which houses Bridgewater State University's programs in biology,chemistry and physics.

Special thanks to Sarah Trudel, The National Marine Life Center, Shawn Diotte, ConcordFoods, Beverly Allen, Brockton Neighborhood Health Care, Paul Souza, Plymouth CountySherrif's Department, Diane Ferrera, Accurounds, Kayla MacGregor, Accurounds, David PriceBridgewater State University, College of Business, Reed Brockman, Boston Society of CivilEngineers, Matthew Desmond, Maersk Line Limited, Nigel Jacobs Office of Mayor Menino,Joseph Matta, Bridgewater State University, Colin Gregory, Bridgewater State University,Jennifer Green, Ocean and Coastal Consultants, Timothy Gerritsen Irrational Games

Dr. Arthur Goldstein, Dean, College of Science and Mathdelivers a dynamic keynote speech

Matthew Desmond (right), Marine 1st engineer for Maersk LineLimited discusses mechanical engineering with students Steven

Borst and Mathew O’Connor from Stoughton High School

Brockton Area Connecting Activities Partnership (CAP) Holds STEM Career Event at BSU

Nigel Jacobs, Emerging Technology Advisor for the Office of MayorMenino, talks with Matt O’Connor of Stoughton High School

Forensic Analyst Paul Souza of the Plymouth County Sheriff’sDepartment shows students how to analyze thumb prints

Bridgewater State University physics major Colin Gregory provides students with information about majoring in Science

Sarah Trudel, marine science instructor at the National Marine LifeCenter, walks students through animal rescue and rehabilitation

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Business EXPO - Reserve Your Booth Now!Promote your com-

pany to prospectiveclients at the 2012Business Expo pre-sented in conjunc-tion with the SmallBusiness Awards

Luncheon.More than 30 businesses will be

featured in this table top Expo. Reserveyour table by April 30 and secure anearly bird rate of $259 for members and$359 for non members. After April 30,the cost of a table will increase to $299for members and $399 for non-mem-bers. Prices include one lunch ticket.

Sponsorship opportunities are also available. For more information call, KimProsper at 508.586.0500 x 231 or email [email protected].

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

The Shaw’s Center, Brockton

10am - 12pm: Business Expo

12pm - 1:30pm: Small Business

Luncheon

1:30pm - 3pm: Business Expo

Calling All Businesses; Career DayTuesday, April 10, 2012, 8:00 am - 11:45 am

The Brockton Area CAP (ConnectingActivities Partnership) isproud to announce its 15thAnnual ConnectingActivities Career Day spon-sored by the Brockton AreaWorkforce InvestmentBoard, Rotary Club ofBrockton, and the MetroSouth Chamber of Commerce. Thisevent will be held on Tuesday, April 10that The Shaw's Center in Brockton from8:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. This initiative isdesigned as an opportunity to buildstronger connections between schools

and the community. By connectingschools with area business-es, students can see themeaning and relevance ofwhat they are learning inschool, invigorating theschool culture and theclassroom, while theybegin to consider their

potential careers.Businesses or high schools who

would like to get involved may contactKrystel Love, Director of Youth Servicesat 508-584-3234, or [email protected].

Tickets are $35 for members and $45 for future-members.Register by calling Kim at 508.586.0500 x 231 or online atevents.metrosouthchamber.com. The Small Business Luncheon is presented inconjunction with the Business EXPO which will run from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm.

Small Biz Awards & EXPO (continued from page 1)

Legislators Attending Legislative Luncheon

State RepresentativeGeraldine Creedon

State Representative Angelo D’Emilia

State Representative Louis Kafka

State RepresentativeThomas Calter

April 12, 2012 at 12:00 pm, Bridgewater State College

State RepresentativeGeoffrey Diehl

SenatorThomas Kennedy

John Buckley,Registrar of Deeds

District AttorneyTimothy Cruz

State RepresentativeWilliam Galvin

Plymouth County Clerk ofCourts Robert Creedon

New Health Plans Offer Savings for Businesses

Steward Health Care and Fallon Community Health Plan have launched StewardCommunity Care on April 1, a new limited network product offeringcomprehensive coverage with premium savings of at least 20% madepossible through a collaboration between a health plan and a health

cares system. The product offers plan designs with no deductible as well as optionswith deductibles for increased savings on monthly premiums. Steward CommunityCare is available through FCHP to all small businesses in the product’s coverage area.It can be offered alongside any one of FCHP’s other network options. StewardCommunity Care includes a network of ten community hospitals and 2,200 primarycare physicians and specialists, as well as Brigham and Women’s Hospital andMassachusetts General Hospital. For more information, visit www.steward.org. The Massachusetts Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (MACCE)has

been certified as a small business health insurance GroupPurchasing Cooperative. The Cooperative lowers health insur-ance costs for small businesses through a combination of its buy-

ing power and the programs to make its members healthier and to promote the useof lower cost settings of care. Under a law signed by Governor Deval Patrick, as manyas six certified group purchasing cooperatives can take on up to 85,000 small groupmembers. For more information, contact Christopher Cooney at 508.586.0500 x 223.

Two new health care programs offering low-cost health insurance options forsmall businesses in Massachusetts are being launched as results of innovative col-laborations and cooperatives:

Annual “Keep Brockton Beautiful” Day

Keep Brockton Beautiful Day will beheld on Saturday, April 21 from 9:00 am -12:00 pm, rain or shine. Volunteers areneeded to participate. Form your ownteams or register as an individual.Registration will take place from 7:30 am -8:30 am at Heights Crossing, 35 Christy’sPlace, Brockton. A cook-out and raffleswill follow the clean-up at 12 noon atHeights Crossing. For more information,call the Mayor’s Office at 508-580-7123 orvisit www.ci.brockton.ma.us.

Saturday, April 21, 2012

Cheer Pack Moves to West Bridgewater, Adds JobsRod Jané of New

England Expansion Stra-tegies (NEES) recentlyhelped Cheer Pack NorthAmerica receive unani-mous West BridgewaterTown Meeting approval ofa Tax Increment Financing(TIF) Agreement for itsmanufacturing relocationand expansion project.Cheer Pack is relocating fromPlymouth, MA to a new manufactur-ing and headquarters facility at OneUnited Drive in West Bridgewater toaccommodate a major expansion.The company manufactures innova-tive packaging for the food and bev-erage industry. The project will resultin the retention of 35 full-time jobsand the creation of 77 new full-timejobs. Cheer Pack will invest approxi-mately $23 million and lease 187,500

square feet of the 315,000industrial building that for-merly housed the UnitedLiquors headquarters anddistribution center. Thebuilding has been approxi-mately 83% vacant for the lastnine years and is coming outof foreclosure. The project iseligible for the AbandonedBuilding Tax Deduction. In

addition to managing the tax incen-tives for the project, NEES has alsocoordinated all local permitting activi-ties and has helped Cheer Pack obtainthree permits, a Special Permit (forchange in use to manufacturing in aWater Resource Protection District), aSite Plan Review, and Building Permit.All three permits were obtained in 48days. The process was assisted by theMetro South Regional EconomicDevelopment Organization (REDO).

John Nesti, Comcast Business Class, takes part in Keep Brockton Beautiful Day


The ATHENA Awards Programwas created in 1982 and has expandedto over 500 cities in the United States,Russia, Canada, China, The UnitedArab Emirates and the UnitedKingdom. The Metro South Chamberof Commerce believes in the valuesunderlying the ATHENAFoundation’s philosophy of incorpo-rating the talents and expertise ofwomen into the leadership of our busi-nesses, communities and government.

The featured speaker is MicheleMcPhee, an investigative reporter forWCVB Channel 5 in Boston. A veterancrime journalist, she is best-selling truecrime author of numerous novels, someof which have been adapted for movies.McPhee was the Police Bureau Chief forthe New York Daily News for nearly 10years, covered Ground Zero on 9/11,and as been a commentator on breakingnews for national programs on CNN,MSNBC and the Fox News Network.McPhee has also hosted her own talk

ATHENA Awards & Expo (continued from page 1)

Honoring the highest level of professional excellence, a devotion to the community, and the opening of doors of leadership opportunity for women

Recognizing the achievements and contributions of small businesses and entrepre-neurs in creating new jobs and economic opportunities in the Metro South region.

Do You Know A Business That Deserves Recognition?

Nominating someone is easy...You may nominate your own business

or any other business you deem worthy.Submit a summary of your reasons for thenomination, based on the criteria listedbelow. Call or fax the Chamber office fornomination forms. You may include anyadditional documentation that will helpillustrate why the business is deserving ofthe award. Nominees do not need to bemembers of the Chamber. Nominees mustbe a for-profit business.

Criteria...Employment/Staying Power. The

Small Business of the Year nominee musthave been in business for a minimum ofthree consecutive years under the currentownership, and have less than 50 full-timeequivalent employees. The Entrepreneur ofthe Year nominee must have been in busi-ness less than three years, and have fewerthan 10 full-time equivalent employees.Growth. The nominee should demonstrategrowth in employees, revenues, and prof-itability. Innovation. The firm shoulddemonstrate creativity and imagination inthe development of its business or in itsproduct or service. Social Responsibility.Nominees should reflect internal and exter-nal social responsibility.

Nominations are due April 13. Visit www.metrosouthchamber.com to

Small Biz & Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

The Metro South Chamber ofCommerce and HarborOne CreditUnion are pleased to announce the 2012ATHENA Awards program. The pro-gram was created in 1982 and hasexpanded to over 350 cities in the UnitedStates, Russia, and Canada. It is presentedin the form of a hand-cast bronze sculp-ture, symbolizing the strength, courageand wisdom of the recipient.

The Metro South Chamber ofCommerce believes in the values under-lying the ATHENA Foundation’s philoso-phy of incorporating the talents andexpertise of women into the leadership ofour businesses, our communities, and ourgovernment. The spirit of the ATHENAProgram is captured in the following quo-tation from Plato: “What is honored in acountry will be cultivated there.” By hon-oring exceptional leaders, others will beencouraged to excel.

On Thursday, June 14, the Metro

South Chamber of Commerce will pres-ent the ATHENA Award to an exception-al individual who has achieved excel-lence in his/her business or profession,has served the community in a meaning-ful way, and has assisted women inreaching their full leadership potential.

To nominate an individual, visit met-rosouthchamber.com and download thenomination form. For more information,contact Kim Prosper at 508.586.0500 ext231, [email protected]. Register for this event online atevents.metrosouthchamber.com.

2011 ATHENA AwardRecipient:

Elain Reiser,Brockton Area Multi-

Services

14th Annual ATHENA Awards

download the nomination form.Winners will be announced at the SmallBusiness and Entrepreneur Luncheon onMay 16th, 2012 and will receive anengraved plaque and publicity. For moreinfo, call Kimberly Prosper at 508.586.0500x 231 or email [email protected].

Sponsored by:Awards Presentation

Sponsored by:

radio program and has been awardedfirst place for “Serious Column” by theNew England Press Association. Herbooks have included “A Professor’sRage”, “A Date With Death” based onthe craigslist killer, “When Evil Rules”and “A Mob Story.”

The breakfast will run from 9am-10am with the ATHENA Woman’sExpo running from 8am - 11am. Ticketsare $25 for members and $35 for future-members. Expo tables are $99. To regis-ter, reserve your expo table, or to nom-inate an individual for an ATHENAaward, please call Kim Prosper at508.586.0500 x 231, or visit events.met-rosouthchamber.com. Sponsored byHarborOne Credit Union, the Shaw’sCenter and the Brockton Rox.

Thursday, June 14, 20128am - 9am: ATHENA Expo9am - 10am: ATHENA Breakfast10am - 11am: ATHENA Expo11am - 12:30pm: Workshops TBD

Prior Small Business of the Year Recipients2010 Prisco’s Market2009 MCG Partners2008 Heights Crossing2007 Westgate Lanes2006 Cindy’s Kitchen2005 Northeast Wholesale Nail & Fastener Supply Co.2004 Duplitron, Inc.2003 Modern Auto Body2002 United Furniture, Inc.2001 Robert Sharkansky & Company, CPAPrior Entrepreneur of the Year Recipients2010 Patricia Winberg, Topnotch Design Studio2009 Michelle Cully, XPressman Trucking & Courier2008 Robert Monahan of UPPAbaby2007 Howard Wright of Wright Technology2006 Rob Peters of Rob Peters Entertainment2005 Jeffrey Chrzanowski of Spark Street Autobody2004 Charles Bernard of The DJ Experience2003 James Messinger of The Crazy Chefs Caterers2002 Jerome Offutt of Top Quality Staffing2001 Randy Yanoff of Eye of the Tiger Karate

Left: Richard Rosen,McGuiggan’s Pub, 2011Entrepreneur of the Year. Right:Al Ata, Elie Baking Corp, 2011Small Business of the Year

Prior ATHENA Recipients2011 Elaine Reiser, Brockton Area Multi-Services2010 Anne DeMinico, St. Joseph Manor2009 Sue Joss, Brockton Neighborhood Health Center2008 Vanessa Tierny, Brockton Area Multi-Services2007 Susan Szachowicz, Brockton High Principal2006 Loretta Degrazia, East Coast Petroleum 2005 Marianne Wroble Cox, WXBR 1460am Radio2004 Shailah Stewart, Brockton Public Schools 2003 Linda Faria Braun, The Adult Learning Center2002 Christine Karavites, Proteas Consulting2001 Barbara Duffy, My Turn, Inc.2000 Noelle Foye, Brockton Elementary School Nurse1999 Janice Cunningham, East Bridgewater Police

GOVERNMENTAffairsThe monthly Government Affairs meetings are held at the

Chamber and provide an opportunity for member businesses to discuss issues important to them with their elected officials.

Join us on May 11, 12:00 pm at theChamber, 60 School Street, Brocktonfor our monthly Government AffairsMeeting. The guest speaker will beGeoff O’Hara, Executive Director ofthe Eastern Region of the U.S.Chamber of Commerce

As ExecutiveDirector of theEastern Region ofthe U.S. Chamberof Commerce,Geoff O’Hara isresponsible for leg-islative and politi-cal grassroots strat-

egy in the elevenstates included in

the Chamber's Eastern Region.The mission of the U.S. Chamber’s

Regional Offices is to develop and main-tain legislative, political and grassroots

resources for the achievement of theU.S. Chamber’s publicpolicy goals. Geoffseeks to expand theChamber’s EasternRegional operationsand strengthen rela-tionships with Chamber member busi-nesses, associations, and chambers ofcommerce.

Before joining the U.S. Chamberstaff in 2001, Geoff O’Hara was theVice President of Government &Public Affairs for the NationalAssociation of Chemical Distributors.

If you would like to attend thismeeting, please contact Lisa at theChamber, 508.586.0500 x 225, [email protected], orregister at events.metrosouthchamber.com. The cost to attend is $5 for mem-bers and $15 for future-members andincludes lunch.

Friday, May 11, 2012

Geoff O’Hara,US Chamber of Commerce

Sponsor:

WELCOME New MembersMaking an Investment in Our Community

High Level CleaningMr. Bernardo Reyes91 Forest AvenueBrockton, MA 02301(508) 498-8237Dry Cleaners/Laundries

Law Office of Mahsa KhanbabaiMs. Mahsa Khanbabai71 Legion Parkway, Suite 11Brockton, MA 02301(508) 297-2065Attorneys

Lodge at StoughtonMs. Kristine Perry400 Technology Center DriveStoughton, MA 02072(781) 341-1112www.lodgeatstoughton.comApartment/Condo Rentals

Loureiro EngineeringMr. Samuel Butcher800 Hingham Street, Suite 2025Rockland, MA 02370(781) 878-1272www.loureiro.comEngineering/Consulting

Massachusetts School CounselorAssociationMrs. Donna M. BrownPO Box 366Bryantville, MA 02327(781) 293-2835www.masca,orgEducation

National Physical TherapyMr. Len Pudt49 Pearl StreetBrockton, MA 02301(508) 580-9995www.nationalphysicaltherapy.comHealth and FitnessParker Property Management Inc.Mr. Ted Parker21 Parker DriveAvon, MA 02322(508) 559-2797www.parkerpropertymanage.comProperty Management

School on Wheels of MAMs. Cheryl Opper790 West Chestnut StreetBrockton, MA 02301(508) 587-9091www.sowma.orgAgencies/Association

Tuxedos By Merian IncMr. John Merian137 Main StBrockton, MA 02301-4012(508) 584-3333www.tuxedosbymerian.comRetail


To Join the Chamber:Call Kathleen,

508.586.0500 x 229

RENEWINGMembers Thank You !Albert Merola-General ContractingAnderson Insulation, Inc.Back Bay BagelBeacon Residential ManagementBill's Taxi/A & A Metro TransportationBridgewater Credit UnionBrockton Equipment SpilldamBrockton Historical SocietyBrophy & Phillips Co., Inc.Carousel Family Fun CenterCelia Insurance Agency, Inc.Central Glass Company, Inc.Changing Directions CounselingCheryl Hodge-Spencer, DMDCitizens Bank of MassachusettsColumbia Gas of MassachusettsConway Insurance Agency, Inc.Costco Wholesale, AvonEascareECO Recycling Systems, Inc.Edible ArrangementsFuller Craft MuseumG & G Commercial SystemGOLFTOWNGood Samaritan Medical CenterH&R Block Business ServicesHennessey & McInnis, Inc.Holiday Inn ExpressIrving's Home Center

GRO-N-THINGS, INC.

SERVING AREA BUSINESS SINCE 1975

Shelley TierneyOWNER

P.O. Box 1246Middleboro, MA 02346508.947.8433 (p)781.767.2244 (f)

Interior Plant Maintenance and Design Service

K. Dwyer Painting (KDP)Low Price Distribution, Inc.Magic Touch Nursery Pre-School CenterMarathon Commercial Solutions LLCMasoneilan DresserMcDonald'sMcSweeney & Ricci Insurance Agency, Inc.Mechanics Cooperative BankMorse Insurance Agency, Inc.National GridNew England Warrior Inc.Niccoli Brothers OilNorth Easton Savings BankNorth Main Street Veterinary Clinic, Inc.Old Town Real Estate LLCPanera Bread LLCParamount Rug Company, Inc.R.E. Lyons & Son Fire Equipment CorpRandstad USARoger P. Wedge, CPASign Design, Inc.Signature HealthcareSoutheastern Oral & Maxillofacial SurgeonsSoutheastern Regional School DistrictThe Guardian Center for Skilled Nursing,Rehabilitative ServiceThs Shaw's Center / Brockton RoxTorrey & Associates

Exciting Travel Open to All!The Metro South Chamber is offering exciting international travel. Travel with

a reputable organization at a great value. For more information, contact Alisonvan Dam at 508.586.0500 x 222, [email protected] or visitwww.metrosouthchamber.com.Cuba: May 3 - May 11, 2012

Highlights include Old Havana, Cathedral dela Havana, Museo Dine Arts, Pinar Del RioVinales, Prehistoric Painted Caves, Bay of PigsMuseum, Hemingway's Home, Cienfuegos,Jagua Castle, Trinidad, Sugar Mill Valley,Partagas Cigar Factory and more. Offeredthrough a special People-to-People License.Be one of the first to visit Cuba since 1959.

$3,399 based on double occupancy from Miami. For more information, visit met-rosouthchamber.com/pdf/ cuba.pdf.

Amalfi Coast, Italy: October 30-November 7, 2012The Amalfi Coast's mixture of history andnature are yours to discover from the Cathedralof Amalfi, to the villas in Ravello and the numer-ous churches. From Galli's Isles in front ofPositana to the Emerald Grotto, near Conca DeiMarini, the Amalfi Coast will captivate you withits warmth and beauty. $2,399 based on doubleoccupancy. For more information, visit met-

rosouthchamber.com/pdf/ amalfiitin.pdf.

Netherlands, Belgium & Paris: September 10-20, 2012 Featuring the Floriade World HorticulturalExpo, held only once every ten years. enjoyimmersion in the culture of the Beneluxregion. Cruise the canals of Amsterdam bycandlelight, stroll through the colorful dis-plays of Keukenhof Gardens, explore historicBruges and stroll the boulevards of Paris,France. You will also visit Giverny in France,

the place that gives life to Monet's Water Lilies, the cathedral of Notre Dame andenjoy dinner in the Eiffel Tower. $3899 based on double occupancy. Book nowand save $100. Additional dates are available, contact the Chamber for for avail-ability. For more information, visit collettevacations.com/link/497680.

Costa Rica: March 9 -17, 2013Learn about Costa Rica's unique vegetationon a guided nature walk through the cloudforest, spot indigenous wildlife on a CanoNegro river boat cruise, and enjoy the tropi-cal landscapes and breathtaking scenery sur-rounding Arenal Volcano. You will also visita coffee plantation, visit a local school,explore the hanging bridges and relax on the

beach. This trip offers something for everyone. $2279 based on double occupan-cy. Book now and save $100. For more information, visitcollettevacations.com/link/499244.

This is an excel-lent opportunity forChamber ofCommerce membersto review their benefit options, to makechanges to their health coverage plans,and to enroll any eligible employee whomay have previously waived coverage.

This open enrollment is also anopportunity to learn about the variousproducts Health Services Administratorsoffers to members, such as health savings

Open Enrollment for Health Insuranceaccounts (HSA) healthplans

If you are self-employed or a small busi-

ness owner, this is also an opportunity toenroll in a health insurance program bestsuited to your business needs.

Health Services Administrators offersaccess to Harvard Pilgrim, Tufts and DeltaDental Insurance. For more information, orcall Debbie or Debbie at 1.877.777.4414 x 124or x 125.


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

and services. General information will be provided on the following: Small BusinessCounseling (SCORE) Small Business / Development Centers • Business InformationCenter SBA 7(a) • Loan Guaranty Program • 8(a) Business Development HUB/Zones• Small Disadvantaged Business Assistance • Government ContractingOpportunities. The workshop will be held at CareerWorks, 34 School Street,Brockton from 2 - 4 pm on the third Wednesday of each month. The next workshopswill be held on April 18 and May 16, 2012. Contact CareerWorks at 508.513.3400 forfurther workshop information.

To Advertise in this Newsletter,Contact Bonnie Br unetti , 508-638-5582.

Employment Law Update, What You Need To KnowFriday, April 20, 2012, 8:30 am - 12:00 pm

(Registration & Networking: 8:00 am)Metro South Chamber, 60 School Street, Brockton

The experienced attorneys of Murphy, Hesse,Toomey & Lehane, LLP, will provide anoverview of major developments in employ-ment law over the past twelve months. Emphasis will be placed on the implicationsof these legal developments for day-to-day HR administration and tips for minimiz-ing liability. In addition, attorneys will be discussing topics in greater detail including:

• Overview of notable developments in labor and employment law, 2011-2012

• Social media and other protected concerted activity under the National Labor Relations Act: What All Employees Need to Know

• Worker classification and independent contractor issues• Developments, best practices and ask the attorneys.

Registration and networking will begin at 8:00 am. The cost of this workshop is $39for members and $69 for non-members and includes coffee, continental breakfast,and extensive handouts including best practices. RSVP for this event by contactingKim Prosper at 508.586.0500 x 231, email kprosper@metrosouth chamber.com, or reg-ister online at events.metrosouthchamber.com

Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane, LLP is a multi-service law firm based in Quincy,Boston and Springfield. One of the 50 largest firms in Massachusetts, their years ofexperience and resources offer clients a wide range of legal services while maintain-ing a “hands-on-touch” that is important in Client-Attorney relationships. For moreinformation about Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane, visit www.mhtl.com. For moreinformation about the content of this program, call Monty Vaughn at 617-691-1951 oremail [email protected].

Using a performance based simulat-ed manufacturing environ-ment, our experts will helptransform you team into aLean manufacturing enter-prise, eliminating waste, increasingproductivity and profitability andallowing you to gain a competitiveedge in the marketplace. Workshopparticipants have reported a 90%reduction in lead time, 85% improve-ment in quality, 50% increase in pro-ductivity and a 50% reduction in floorspace.

Traditional manufacturing philoso-phies stress high utilization of machin-ery and manpower with less attentionspent focusing on cycle time reductionor manufacturing waste. Lean manu-facturing focuses on creating greaterproduction efficiencies by implement-

Thursday, May 3, 20128:00 am - 4:00 pm (7:30 am registration)

Metro South Chamber, 60 School Street, Brockton

ing value-added activities to minimizewaste. By utilizing a per-formance based learningenvironment, workshopparticipants experience a

complete Lean transformation andlearn how to implement Lean princi-ples through their own manufacturingenterprise in the 8 hour workshop andsimulation.

Lean implementation focuses oneliminating overproduction, wait time,transportation, inefficient processes,inventory, motion, defects, and produc-tion bottlenecks.

The cost to attend is $79 forMassachusetts companies and $325 fornon-Massachusetts companies. Con-tinental breakfast and lunch are includ-ed. Register online at www.massmep.org or call 508-831-7020 x 11.

Principles of Lean Manufacturing

The U.S. economy is heat-ing up, learn how to growyour money wisely and why“down” markets createinvestment opportunities forthe wise investor. Do you know whatyou’re doing what you’re doing whenyou invest? Learn about the “cashflow” eliminator, debt, and admit thatspending before planning is terminal to

Thursday, May 24, 20129:00 am - 10:00 am


investing. Presented by Kevin Woods

of the Society for FinancialAwareness, a non-profit edu-cational speaker’s bureau.

To register for this free workshop, con-tact Lisa Keene at 508.586.0500 x 225,email [email protected],or register online at events.met-rosouthchamber.com

Investing Concerns in a “Fragile” Market

Give a boostto your inter-net marketingefforts. If you

want to get more business from yourwebsite or if you are wonderingwhether social media marketing is rightfor your business, this 2 part workshopseries is for you.

SCORE’s E-Commerce workshopwill help you supercharge your inter-net marketing efforts. A website thatattracts prospects and a social mediamarketing program that puts you incontact with potential customers areimportant to growing your business.

In this series, you will learn how to• Create a website that attracts

prospects

April 26 & May 1, 20128:30 am - 10:30 am


• Make your website attractive and easy to use

• Create interesting content• Determine whether social media will

help your business• Select the social media tool that is right

for your business• Get started in social media marketingThursday, April 26, 8:30 am - 10:30 am:

E-Commerce Internet MarketingTuesday, May 1, 8:30 am - 10:30 am:

E-Commerce Social Media MarketingTo register, or for more information,

contact Lisa Keene, [email protected], 508.586.0500 x 225,or register online at events.met-rosouthchamber.com. For more informa-tion about SCORE Counselors, visitwww.scoresema.org.

Shoeleather Marketing - E-Commerce Workshops

Sharkansky CPA’s LLP will pres-ent a QuickBooks workshop forbeginners. Whether you are abusiness owner or responsible forkeeping the books at a small busi-ness, this workshop will teach youhow to set up QuickBooks, addcustomers and invoice items, addvendors and payment criteria,select a Chart of Accounts, and useClasses to track divisions. You willalso learn how to gain efficiency byreconciling your bank statementand budgeting and selecting billsto pay, as well as using memorizedtransactions on a monthly basis,printing checks that are recorded

Thursday, May 31, 20128:30 am - 10:00 am


instantly and using online bill payoptions.

An additional workshop on finan-cial statement analysis for smallbusinesses will be presented bySharkansky CPA’s LLP on June 12 atthe Chamber.

For more information, or to reg-ister for this free workshop, contactLisa Keene at 508.586.0500 x 225,[email protected],or register online at events.met-rosouthchamber.com.

QuickBooks Workshop at the Chamber


April 28China Trip Informational Session2:00 pm - 3:00 pmBrockton Public Library304 Main Street, Brockton

Learn more about the 4th Annual Community Travel to China,October 17-25, only $2,199 all-inclusive.

Free to Attend

Please RSVP at 508.586.0500 ext. 222

BUSINESS EVENTS Planner

Loureiro Engineering Massachusetts School Counselor Association (MASCA)

Hilliards Chocolate System Tuxedos by Marian, Inc.

MOBD Head Meets with Chamber Board Pro Tree Service, Inc.

Buy Local From These Chamber of Commerce Members

Prism Energy Services

1150 Hancock St, Suite 400, Quincy617-328-9896 • www.prismenergyservices.com

Prism Energy Services provides cost-effective, turnkeyenergy savings solutions for commercial, industrial andmunicipal customers. Prism is a preferred provider ofboth National Grid and NSTAR and provides customerswith a comprehensive, “no cost” energy audit as well as adetailed analysis of cost saving opportunities and result-ing return on investment. Prism works to maximizeavailable utility incentives as well as providing financingoptions to minimize any capital cost expenditures.

275 East Center Street, W. Bridgewater508-587-3666 • www.hilliardschocolate.com

For close to 90 years, the name Hilliards has been iden-tified with the highest quality homemade candy: gour-met chocolates, truffles, premium fudge, chocolatedipped fruit, toffee, and more. Today, Hilliards House ofCandy, with three stores, Easton, Canton, and Hanoverproduces its delicious confections fresh and on site.Hilliards House of Candy is also a "go to" provider ofhandcrafted chocolates and gift baskets, weddingfavors, corporate gift programs and fundraisers.

779 South Franklin Street, Holbrook781-767-1160 • www.tvlctr.com

The mission of MASCA is to advocate for schoolcounselors in Massachusetts by providing leader-ship, collaboration and professional development.Through its publications, workshops and semi-nars, MASCA works to help professional schoolcounselors better understand their role and makemore effective use of their skills and talents as theyguide students to become college and career ready.Visit us at www.masca.org.

137 Main Street, Brockton508-584-3333 • www.tuxedosbymerian.com

Tuxedos by Merian is a third generation clothingcompany established in 1951 with locations inBrockton and Taunton. The company’s uniquestyle of merchandising tuxedo rentals and suitsales distinguishes the Merian Brother’s as beingthe only in stock tuxedo rental provider with acomplimenting full service suit department inMassachusetts. Stop by and see John and PaulMerian for all your tuxedo rental needs!

935 Crescent Street, Brockton 508-638-1556 • [email protected]

Pro Tree Service Inc is a fully insured treecompany that servers Boston, South Shoreand surrounding areas. We offer services toboth commercial and residential properties.Our services include tree pruning, removaland stump grinding as well as free estimates.We are located at 935 Crescent Street inBrockton. Contact us today at 508-638-1556,or email [email protected]!

Anne Struthers, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Office of BusinessDevelopment recently traveled to Brockton to meet with the Metro South Chamber ofCommerce Board of Directors. The agenda focused on the many services and strategies MOBD has to assist busi-ness with growth and development within Massachusetts. Anne also covered the latest information regarding thenewly designated Regional Economic Development Organizations. The MOBD recently selected ten organiza-tions to act as key partners for business retention and expansion within the commonwealth. The Metro SouthChamber of Commerce is one of the ten organizations chosen. The REDO designation comes with key supportsincluding funding for economic development throughout the Metro South region. Pictured: Peter Neville, Chair ofthe Board, Anne Struthers, Executive Director of MOBD, and Christopher Cooney, Chamber President & CEO.

800 Hingham Street, Rockland781-878-1272 • www.loureiro.com

Since 1975, the people of Loureiro have provid-ed the highest quality engineering, construc-tion, environmental health & safety, energy, andwaste management services to leading industri-al, government, real estate development, andeducation/healthcare clients as well as to archi-tects and attorneys throughout North America.For more information, contact Samuel Butcherat [email protected], 781-878-1272.

April 12Legislative Luncheon12:00 pm - 1:30 pmBridgewater State UniversityRondileau Campus Center

Join other Chamber members for this opportunity tointeract with legislators. Speaker: Attorney GeneralMartha Coakley

Tickets: $39 members, $49 non-members

For more information, call 508-586-0500 ext. 225

April 18Business After Hours5:30 pm - 7:30 pmTutto Bene1050 Pearl Street, Brockton

Enjoy networking at a Chamber member business.Refreshments will be served. Do not forget your business cards!FEEDback Forum to proceed event.

Tickets: $5 members, $15 future-members


April 20Employment Law Update8:30 am - 12:00 pmMetro South Chamber of Commerce60 School Street, Brockton

Receive an overview of major developments in employ-ment law over the past twelve months.

Tickets: $39 members, $69 future-members


April 26, May 1SCORE E-Commerce Workshop8:30 am - 10:30 amMetro South Chamber of Commerce60 School Street, Brockton

Learn how to get more business from your website andwhether social media marketing is right for you.

Free to Attend


TUXEDOS BY MERIAN

IT’S EASY TO REGISTER!508-586-0500 x 231508-587-1340E-mail: [email protected]: www.metrosouthchamber.comSend reservation and payment to:

Metro South Chamber of CommerceSixty School Street Brockton, MA 02301-4087

facebook.com/metrosouthchambercommerce

twitter.com/MetroSouth

linkedin.com/groups?gid=1830527

youtube.com/user/metrosouthchambercom

flickr.com/photos/metrosouthchamber

issuu.com/metrosouthchamber

FIND US

May 3Principles of Lean Manufacturing8:00 am - 4:00 pmMetro South Chamber of Commerce60 School Street, Brockton

Learn how to eliminate waste, and increase productivityand profitability in this performance based simulation.

Free to Attend


April 2012

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Transcript of April 2012