New Members
Fit For Life - West Roxbury
Visit these new members! |
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Member Affinity Programs
You can save hundreds of dollars by taking advantage of our Member Affinity programs. Just click on the links below for details.

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Did you know that the Chamber offers FREE business counseling services at our offices?
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NVCC offers free SCORE COUNSELING at the NVCC office on Thursdays, by appointment.
To register call (781) 769-1126. | |
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Board of Directors
Chairman of the Board *Kevin Hallinan WINNING, Inc.
Past Chairman of the Board *Anthony F. Caruso
Bank of Canton
Treasurer
*Mike Moran Dedham Institution for Savings
General Counsel & Chair-elect *Sabina T. Herlihy, Esq. Law Offices of Sabina T. Herlihy
Previous Past Chairman
*Steve Fradkin
The Wizard of Adz
President/CEO *Thomas O'Rourke
Neponset Valley Chamber of Commerce
Dana Bottorff
G. T. Reilly & Company
*Michael Cecere, CPA
Gray, Gray & Gray, LLP
Paul Chaggaris Walpole Cooperative Bank
Rob Ferrini
The Murphy Insurance Group
Debbie Ellis
QRGA, LLP
Thomas Flaherty
Bacon Flaherty, LLC
Lori Forcucci
Law Office of Lori Forcucci
Pierce Haley, Esq. Serlin|Haley LLP
Chris Herlihy
Shotgunflat
Brian Johnson
Doc Shredding Corp.
Willard Krasnow, Esq.
Constangy, Brooks & Smith, LLP
Nancy Levine
MSA Mortgage
Bob Mannering
Mercer
*Peter McFarland
The Allied Group
*Mary Raczka (Long)
HESSCO Elder Services
Peter Rice
Eastern Bank
Rebecca Schofield
Needham Bank
*Katherine Touafek
School to Careers Partnership
Monty Vaughn Murphy, Hesse, Toomey & Lehane, LLP
*David P. Wolicki, Esq. Law Offices of David P. Wolicki
*Member of the Executive Committee
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From The President
Serving Those Who Served
Did you know that the unemployment rate for returning service men and women is more than 13% and significantly higher for those ages 18 to 24? The down economy has been difficult for many but few have felt the impact more than our veterans. What's interesting is how much military training and skills have changed over the years due to technological advances, meaning today's veterans possess a variety of skills that prior generations never would have had.
Consider the number of medical and high tech innovations that are the result of military research and development. Wouldn't it make sense to hire the very people who are responsible for either developing or using these tools? I know from talking to a recently returned veteran that many of the skills being used overseas are beyond my limited technological realm.
Traditionally veterans could be counted on for bringing skills in leadership, teamwork and discipline to the workplace. Add to that the training they now have in computers, logistics, mapping, GPS, supply chain, and so much more and you have a ready workforce that could be an asset to most businesses.
At the national and state level, I am pleased to see that government officials have taken the issue of veteran unemployment seriously and put into place a variety of programs to help them find work, transition their skills and access career advice and counseling. Our Chamber, through its affiliation with the Massachusetts Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (MACCE) supported the Governor's Interagency Task Force on Hiring Veterans which directed all Executive Branch agencies to promote the benefits of hiring veterans. We also continue to work with Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray, who chairs the Governor's Advisory Council on Veterans' Services. Read more...
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Meet The Board
Rebecca Schofield, Needham Bank Westwood Branch Manager
Rebecca Schofield has been involved with the chamber since 2005. She was originally with Dedham Co-operative in Business development and was very active in REN and Networking events for the NVCC.
In 2007, Dedham Co-operative merged with Needham Co-operative to become Needham Bank and Rebecca was made Manager of the Wellesley Branch, and then in 2009, the Westwood Branch Manager.
Needham Bank has been in business for 117 years. It offers its customers an array of services, including investment and wealth management, business and commercial banking, personal checking, savings, CDs, IRAs, insurance, loans and much more.
Rebecca, who has 24 years' experience in the banking industry and is a graduate of Salve Regina University with a BS in Business Management, has also taken courses at the American Institute of Banking throughout her career. In addition, she was a participant of the Branch Managers Certification Series, a program offered by the Massachusetts Bankers Association.
She is very involved with the NVCC, sitting on the Golf and Annual Meeting Committees where she serves as the Volunteer Coordinator and was elected to the Board of Directors in 2010. Her infectious positive attitude and incredible work ethic have made her a huge asset to the NVCC and to its members.
Originally from Cumberland, RI, she makes her home in Foxboro with her daughter. In her spare time she enjoys activities with family and friends and performing volunteer activities at her daughter's school.
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The NVCC can make "IT" Happen!
Join us for the second annual "Get Acquainted" evening at Bar Louie on Wednesday, September 19, 2012, from 5:30-7:30pm and learn how the Chamber can help your business succeed!
Enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages in a relaxed, social setting while you learn the MANY benefits of a chamber membership from staff and other members. Don't miss this opportunity to maximize your business! *Existing members are welcome, but must bring a non-member guest. Bar Louie 232 Patriot Place Foxboro, MA Wednesday, September 19 5:30-7:30pm FREE Easy registration | |
Upcoming Programs
September 11
Noon Networking
How to Network
Buca Di Beppo
233 Elm Street
Dedham MA
10:30am-1:30pm
September 12
Hiring our Heroes
American Legion Post #18
155 Eastern Avenue
Dedham, MA
11:00am-3:00pm
September 13
Ribbon Cutting - Sovereign Bank
929 Providence HWY
Dedham, MA
8:15-9:30am
September 13
NVCC Financial Solutions Team - Health Care & Tax Update
NVCC Office
190 Vanderbilt Avenue
Norwood, MA
5:30-6:30pm
September 19
"Get Aquainted with the NVCC!" Member Recruitment Night
Bar Louie
232 Patriot Place
Foxboro, MA
5:30-7:30pm
September 27
Business After Hours
YD Auto Body
160 Turnpike Street
Canton, MA
5:30-7:30pm
All programs
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Easy registration and more information for these beneficial programs
Add your events to the NVCC website and get huge exposure! Just use your Member Login, or email Cristoff at cristoff@nvcc.com.
Forgot your login? It happens to all of us! Email Cristoff and we will get you started on taking full advantage of the perks associated with your membership! | |
Click here and take advantage of Chamber Members' money-saving offers. Just click any ad for great savings! | |
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Advertise with the Chamber Website
* NVCC gets over 10,000 views a month!
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Chamber of commerce websites are frequently sought out when potential customers are looking for products and services in a local area. In fact, a 2007 study (by the Schapiro group) showed that when potential customers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 44% more likely to think favorably of it, and 63% more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future. Chamber credibility is important and it positively enhances click through rates.
For the past four years, online local ad sales had a compound growth rate of 48 percent and are projected to reach $13.9 Billion in 2009 (+7.5%). At the same time, other forms of advertising are projected to decline 1.4%. Advertising continues to shift away from other media and more toward online opportunities because it is cost effective, measurable, flexible, targeted, and most importantly - it works!
Don't delay, contact Cristoff more more information and affordable rates to fit any budget.
Cristoff@nvcc.com or 781-769-1126. |
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Member Spotlight
Over the last six months, the Chili's in the Walpole Mall parking lot has really reinvented itself. Their focus on fantastic food, service, and atmosphere has really shown through for guests day after day. They have a fantastic staff that is committed to serving their guests the best experience possible by making connections with people, and trying to make friends. Families are always welcome and encouraged to come and dine especially every Tuesday where "Kids Eat Free" all day long. Also featured on Tuesday are balloons and a coloring contest for all the kids to enter, winners are selected weekly and notified of their prize.
As a company, Chili's has been creating great experiences since 1975, when Larry Lavine converted an old postal station into the first Chili's in Dallas Texas. Over the last 37 years Chili's has grown to more than 1400 locations across the world. The Chili's in Walpole is one of the more recent stores built and has all the latest architecture and ambiance features.
The management team in Walpole is excited to become a part of the community and become Walpole's #1 choice for a casual lunch or dinner. Casey, the General Manager, has been a part of Chili's for close to 14 years and has worked on all aspects of the restaurant at one time or another. Amanda, the Front of the House Manager, has been in Walpole since January where her youthful enthusiasm and industry knowledge has helped to mold the staff into a great team. Matt, the Kitchen Manager, was with Chili's as a cook for years before going into management for a couple of different companies; now Chili's has had him back for the last year, and in just a few months in Walpole, he has helped build the kitchen up, and make sure all the food is great.
So come down to visit your "New" Chili's where you will enjoy their great and personable staff, the consistently delicious food, and the fun and exciting atmosphere, and all at a great price.
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Want the "Spotlight" on your business? Attend our next Networking Event at the Buca di Beppo on September 11. Lunch Included. Easy registration
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Showcase and promote your product or services at the Mega Business EXPO, a collaborative of the Neponset Valley, Tri-Town, and Milford Area Chambers of Commerce, on Tuesday, October 30, 2012 at GILLETTE STADIUM in Foxboro from 3pm-7pm.
For 11 years, this event has given exhibitors the opportunity to expose their organizations to the public and other businesses from three chamber areas. This is one of the biggest networking events of its kind in the area with over 150 exhibitors and over 1000 attendees translating to huge returns on investment.
The evening also features a Business After Hours with complimentary food and a cash bar, seminars, and prizes.
For maximum exposure consider taking a high-visibility sponsorship which includes advertising, and premier exhibit space.
In challenging economic times one must set themselves apart from the competition; let the Mega Business Expo move your organization ahead of the pack. Register today as booth space is limited and booth assignments will be on a first come-first serve basis.
A booth is only $375.00!
Thank you to our Sponsors,
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Discover Tuscany with The Chamber!

Information Session September 26th
You are invited to join the Neponset Valley Chamber of Commerce for an entertaining travel presentation. Discover the people and places that make our tours special at an informational preview of our trip to Tuscany in April 2013! Take that first step towards Italy by joining us on Wednesday, September 26th at 6:00 pm at the Chamber office. You can even ask questions of our travel experts from Collette Tours. See you then!
The rolling hills of Tuscany are home to sprawling vineyards, charming medieval hill towns and enchanting cities steeped in history, culture and legend. Discover them for yourself on this 10-day sojourn into the Italian countryside. Visit Rome, Siena and Assisi. Relax with a six-night stay in Montecatini Terme, the famous resort and spa town. Enjoy free time to explore Florence. Discover the hilltop village of San Gimignano. See Michelangelo's "David." Enjoy fabulous local wines and Tuscany's famous cuisine.
For more information or to register for the free info session please contact Tom O'Rourke at (781) 769-1126, or tom@nvcc.com. |
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Discounted Health Insurance for Small Businesses Now Available!
Long-awaited discounts for small businesses are here. The Massachusetts Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (MACCE) recently introduced the Chamber Health Coop, a group purchasing program that makes health insurance more affordable for businesses with 1 to 50 full-time employees.
Any small business that belongs to the Neponset Valley Chamber is eligible to join the Chamber Health Coop.
Our members can save hundreds or thousands of dollars a year on their health insurance from Fallon Community Health Plan, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Health New England, which are each discounting several of their plans. Fallon and Harvard Pilgrim are trimming rates by 3 percent, and Health New England by 5 percent. Businesses with a maximum of 50 employees who work 30 or more hours a week can now enroll for coverage beginning as soon August 1st.
The more covered lives a business has the more they can save. For example a company with 5 covered lives paying an average premium of $500 each could save $660 a year. A company with 10 covered lives could save $1,560 a year; 20 covered lives would save $3,360 a year and 50 covered lives would save $8,760 a year. These are based on individual plans. With family plans the savings add up even faster.
In addition to offering savings on health insurance plans, the Chamber Health Coop provides wellness programs to help employee's live healthier lives that in turn may help keep premium costs at bay. The health and wellness offering is free for all covered employees and their families.
To learn more, visit www.ChamberHealthCoop.com, or contact your certified insurance broker.
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Health Care & Tax Update
URGENT CHANGES YOU NEED TO KNOW!
The new Estate Tax Law can cost your family wasted tax dollars! Do you have adequate lifetime planning documents in place now to protect you and your families?
With Health Care Reform Individuals and Businesses from sole proprietors to large companies need to stay current so your Health Plans work for you.
The Supreme Court ruling upholding the Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) means the act will move forward with tax changes beginning in less than six months! Learn how you can mitigate the negative effect these taxes have on you.
Come meet our panel of experts who will simplify the new laws, share ideas and answer your questions!
Brian F. Mahoney, ESQ.: Estate Planning and Elder Law Attorney with 30 years' experience
Kathleen Regan: Licensed Insurance Broker - Health/Life/Long-Term Care/Retirement (Appointed to write the Chamber of Commerce Health Plans.)
Michael Cecere, CPA, MST: Partner with the CPA firm Gray, Gray, & Gray in Westwood Ma
Todd J. Chipman: Accountant with the CPA firm John T. Chipman & Company LLP
Karen Lafond: Licensed Insurance Agent with 18 years' experience in the Insurance Industry
NVCC Office
190 Vanderbilt Avenue
Norwood, MA
Thursday, September 13
5:30-6:30pm
Easy registration
This seminar is for informational purposes only
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Save $$$ on Electricity for Your Business and Home |
Through an affinity program with First Point Power, NVCC members can save up to 15% on the supply portion of their electric bill.
With the deregulation of the electricity industry, you now have a choice of where you buy your electricity. Your local utility will continue to provide service, reliability, meter reading, and you still only get one bill from the utility company.
This offer is for commercial accounts as well as residences. You can sign up your business and then offer it as a no-cost-to-you employee benefit to all your employees. The only restriction is you must be an NSTAR or National Grid customer. If you are served by a municipal Power Company, you are precluded from taking advantage of this offer at this time.
Contact Brian at brian@nvcc.com, or 781-769-1126 for more information. |
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MEMBER NEWS

*Want the latest from your business featured in the NVCC newletters? Send an email to Cristoff at cristoff@nvcc.com.
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