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MULTI- CHAMBER AFTER HOURS NETWORKING
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Please join us for a Multi-Chamber
Networking Event at the Cafe Escadrille
26 Cambridge Street
Burlington, MA
Wed Aug 22, 2018
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
$10.00 ~ Chamber Members
$20.00 ~ Non Chamber
MEET, GREET & NETWORK with over 200 member professionals from several local area Chambers. Don't forget to bring plenty of business cards.
Please note that tabletop space is available on a first-come, first-served basis for Chamber Members Only at no additional cost. Space is limited and the tables are shared by 3 Chamber member companies. Table space is meant to display product samples and hold marketing materials - this is not a Business Expo - we encourage everyone to be networking and meeting new business contacts.
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Selectman Choose a New Town Manager
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Sarah Stanton will be offered the position of Town Manager following a final and unanimous vote by the Selectmen on July 2. Her broad experience in municipal government and finance, including her current role as Budget Director for the City of Cambridge, were cited as important factors in the choice.
Ms. Stanton is the current Budget Director for the City of Cambridge. She has been in this position since 2017.
Prior to assuming the responsibilities of this position she was the Chief Financial Officer and City Auditor for the City of Salem, Massachusetts serving in this role from 2013-2017.
During the period of 2009-2013, Ms. Stanton was the Chief Procurement Officer for the City of Woburn.
She began her career working in Haverhill as an assistant to the Mayor before working as the Assistant Town Manager in Ipswich, Massachusetts.
Ms. Stanton has a Master's degree from Northeastern University and an undergraduate degree from Plymouth State in New Hampshire.
She is a certified Chief Procurement Officer in Massachusetts.
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It's Ice Cream Time with the Lexington Chamber
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We are joining up with the Lexington Chamber to add some new faces to our networking events - join us on August 9th at 1666 Mass Ave in Lexington for an old fashion Ice Cream Social. It is free to Chamber members but you must
register here.
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LIME BIKE COMING TO BEDFORD
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By Alyssa Sandovel
Bedford is joining a 15-community regional dockless bike share program starting on July 31 with bike share provider, Lime. Using a smartphone app, riders will be able to rent and ride bikes in Bedford. The new bike share program will offer a convenient way for Bedford residents and workers to get around town for short trips.
The larger regional system of bike share is organized by the Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) and includes fourteen other municipalities in greater Boston, including Arlington, Belmont, and Waltham.
Starting on July 31, bikes will be stationed at a limited number of designated hot spots around Bedford. To use the bike share, riders use the app to locate the closest bike share bike, scan the QR code on the bike to unlock, and park and lock the bike to end the rental. Riders are encouraged to park bikes at or near existing bike rack locations. Please take care not to block sidewalks, entrances to buildings, corners, driveways, and bus stops. As the program rolls out, the Town plans to evaluate and add to bike share parking areas.
All are welcome to a bike share launch with Bedford Town officials and Lime representatives, on July 31, 2018, 9 am at Bedford Depot Park, 120 South Road.
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Back-to-School Marketing Tips for Businesses
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By Peter Roesler
President, Web Marketing Pros
Don't tell your kids, cause it will bum them out, but in just a month, it'll be time to go back to school. This the time is now for business owners to start thinking about the marketing they will use to help steer shoppers to their stores. A recent study has data that can help in this regard. A survey from Eyeview found that both parents and students were most moved by localized campaigns.
School shopping is one of the few areas that haven't been dominated by ecommerce. Fewer than 20% of students and parents make half their back to school purchases online. This creates an opportunity for local, brick-and-mortar retailers.
According to the the study, two out of three (66%) students and nearly three out of four (74%) parents believe local targeting is 'the most impactful' part of back-to-school ad campaigns.
"Breaking out of the back-to-school marketing noise has become increasingly competitive, with retailers starting promotions earlier and earlier," said Oren Harnevo, CEO and Co-founder at Eyeview
. "This survey has uncovered actionable takeaways, like the importance of geo-targeting, relevant messaging, and telling the right story to the dual audience of students and parents. Personalization needs to be the gold standard for brands because, when done right, it can have a great impact on offline sales."
The study also confirmed some long-standing beliefs consumers have about back-to-school shopping and debunked a few myths. The authors of the study found that both parents and students do much of their shopping online but students were significantly more like to use online resources as well. Nearly half (49%) of students surveyed and four out of five (82%) parents make about half of back to school buys in-store. This means that 51 percent of students make more than half of their purchases online, so there's still good reason for business owners to use online marketing tactics.
Even when shoppers don' t buy the item online, having their mobile device with them helps them when shopping in-store. According to the data, two out of of five (40%) students and two out of three (66%) parents say they browse online before purchasing in-store.
Besides noting the benefits of local marketing, the researchers also collected data that shows the usefulness of other marketing tactics like retargeting and personalization. A third (34%) of students and a quarter (27%) of parents said that retargeting campaigns were the most impactful for them. Not as strong a showing as localization, but something business owners should consider. Similarly, 40% of students and 45% of parents say personalization in advertising gets their attention.
Business owners and marketers should remember that parents aren't their only audience when it comes to back-to-school shopping. Though parents are most likely the one ones paying for back-to-school supplies, about half of parents (48%) say their children make or influence final back to school purchases. Children and teens who may not be excited about school, do get excited about shopping, and tapping into that energy can be beneficial for marketers.
One way business owners can do this is by including things in their marketing that will capture the attention of students. For example, instead of just listing the great prices on pencils and paper (which appeals to parents), marketers should include product images from things kids enjoy, such as stationary or clothing with their favorite characters.
The relatively small percentage of back-to-school shopping that happens online also shows an opportunity for online retailers. By identifying the factors that keep people from using e-commerce for school shopping, online retailers can create campaigns that can increase their revenue.
One reason that parents don't shop online for school supplies is that many don't buy supplies until right before school starts. This makes consumers more likely to go to brick-and-mortar store because they know they can get their hands on the product in time for school. Online retailers can make up for this by offering big discounts weeks before the start of school . The early marketing will give the retailer a jump on their competition and would encourage people to shop online early because it will save them in the long run and there would be plenty of time for shipping if the retailer starting the ad campaign early enough.
Online retailers who also have a physical location can use integrated marketing campaigns to increase the reach and effectiveness of their campaigns. Marketers can use their online site to help customers while they shop in-store with product information, item availability and reviews. Even if this doesn't lead to a huge impact on online sales, these tactics will increase revenues for in-store sales.
School will be back in session soon, so business owners should start planning their marketing campaigns now. Make sure that your marketing campaign features localization, personalization and retargeting.
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DID YOU KNOW ?
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Last month, my youngest daughter Kelly graduated from Boston College with her Masters in Nursing. It was a bittersweet day for our family as on one hand this
was a great accomplishment and a life long dream for her to join her parents and brother as BC Eagles, but on the other hand her dad, who was her biggest fan and supporter, succumbed to cancer before she graduated. I wanted to give her something special for graduation that both honored her achievement and the memory of Pete.
Chamber member, Rob Bagdasarian, of KB Jewelers was able to make that wish come true by taking Pete's BC College ring and turning it in to a bracelet.
Needless to say, Kelly loved the piece and the sentiment. Take a stroll into their store located in center of town and see the many beautiful pieces of jewelry they have created.
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First Annual Chamber Golf Tournament
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We invite friends and family of the Bedford Chamber of Commerce to come out and compete in the First Annual Bedford Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament, hosted at Patriot Golf Course in Bedford, MA.
Date: August 21st, 2018
Time: 4:30PM - 8PM
Format: 2-Player Scramble
*Teams of two will compete for the lowest score on the 9-hole course
First Prize: $250
Second Prize: $100
*Compete for prizes in the Closest-to-the-Pin and Longest Drive competitions
Entry Cost: $100 per team ($50 each player)
*Must enter as a team of two online using the following link:
LINK
Entry Includes: Greens fees and team cart, complimentary water and food, and gift bag
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BEDFORD DAY APPLICATIONS
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FAIR APPLICATION BEDFORD DAY, SEPTEMBER 22, 2018
FAIR: 10:00 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Application Deadline: August 31, 2018: Applicants will receive confirmation that applications have been received.
The Bedford Day Fair and Parade are held rain or shine. If we encounter weather that is severe and threatens the safety of participants, the events will be postponed to the Saturday following the regularly scheduled Bedford Day.
Set up: 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
"For Profit" groups may not sell goods or services at the Bedford Day Fair. "For Profits" may distribute promotional material and free items. Space assignment prioritization: -Bedford-serving non-profit groups -Bedford-based for profit groups* -Non-Bedford-based for profit groups* There is no guarantee that groups will be assigned to former space. Per order of the Bedford Code Enforcement Department, all tarps and tents must be fire retardant (manufacturer's label to this effect must be visible).
Click Here for an application.
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From the Chamber Office
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Is your Business looking for volunteer opportunities for your employees?
Click
HERE for a list of organizations that need help, Certificates of Achievements are provided to all Chamber business members along with photo ops and social media outreach. An optional short video showing your employees doing the volunteer work can be added.
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Do you want to get involved with a Chamber Committee or event?
The Board of Directors are always looking for volunteers to serve on committees and help with events, this is a great way to get involved in the Chamber and maximize your membership by meeting and networking. There are lots of opportunities, please email
Maureen Sullivan
at the Chamber office and explore what might fit your talents and interests.
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Economic Development Updates
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1. Planning Board update for fall town meeting
According to Jeff Cohen, there is some cleanup needed for the zoning changes passed at the last town meeting. These are expected to be minor and will likely be included at Fall Town Meeting. The planning board is also looking at zoning changes for accessory apartments. They still have a lot of work to do but current goal is to have this ready for Spring 2019 town meeting.
2. Minuteman Bikeway 25th Anniversary
This is set for September 29th. There will be different events throughout the day in Bedford, Lexington and Burlington. In Bedford there will be spaces set up across from Depot Park. They may be opportunities for businesses to sponsor/have tables at this event.
3. Dockless Bike Share
This is still scheduled for this summer. Exact date TBD as the town is still undergoing some final negotiations with the bike vendors. E-bikes (electric assisted bikes) will be included but will not include motorized scooters.
4. July 2018 - Special Town Meeting discussion
According to Bill Moonan, the selectman has concerns about the GSA auction for The Former Navy Hanger at 154 Hartwell Road at Hanscom Field. They are worried that it could be purchased for additional hanger space for a delivery service like Federal Express which could lead to a lot more truck traffic on Hartwell Road and an increase in airport operations at Hanscom. In response, the town has called for a special town meeting on July 30th (please see
https://www.bedfordma.gov/home/news/july-30-2018-special-town-meeting-warrant ). The items listed include giving the town the authorization to purchase the land for possible future municipal use and to amend the zoning map to change that land from Industrial A District to Residence C District. According the Bill, the rezoning to residential would reduce the value of the land since there is currently no easement to give residential access to the land so it could not really be currently developed for residential use. According to Jeff, the planning board has not reviewed this yet and may recommend changes.
5. Volunteer Guide. This was very well received by companies at the Wiggins Avenue meeting. The group recommended we look for additional volunteer opportunities.
6. Parking. The group had a brain storming session on providing additional parking downtown. The group concluded it might be help to create a municipal lot. This could be done by the town either buying or leasing land.
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What the Chamber did in July?
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 2018 3rd Annual Summer Walk About
CHAMBER CONNECTIONS
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WHO WANTS TO BE ON TV?
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We are so excited to offer our members
another
new FREE benefit!
We are partnering with o
ur friends at Bedford TV to produce a monthly show called CHAMBER CONNECTIONS
. In addition to promoting our events/activities, Chamber members will be interviewed providing great exposure for their business. The show will be broadcast on Public channel and also through their website. Contact the Chamber if you are interested in learning more.
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Check out your fellow Chamber members
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CHAMBER CALENDAR
August 9
Ice Cream Networking Event with Lexington Chamber
1666 Mass Ave
Lexington, MA
August 7/14/28
Tee It Up Golf
Patriot Golf Course
5-6 PM Tee Times
August 22
Multi Chamber Networking
Cafe Escradrille
Burlington, MA
5:30-7:30
September 13
Board of Directors Meeting
Town Center
7:30 AM
September 13
Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
The Well Effect
9:30 AM
September 22
Bedford Day
10:00 AM
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CHAMBER MEMBER
ANNOUNCEMENTS
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We cordially invite you to a phenomenal series of musical events happening at our amazing community this summer. Tell your friends, family, and neighbors and join us for a great night out and don't forget to bring your dancing shoes and your appetite. Enjoy the tastes and sounds of all that is Billerica Crossings!
August 1, 2018 4-6PM Brian Kane
A local New England favorite! An extremely accomplished musician who has been entertaining audiences for several years. Come enjoy the sweet sound of the saxophone.
August 22, 2018 4-6 PM Jumpin Jumba
Come and enjoy our beautiful outside patio and the sounds of this seasoned duo specializing in: Blues, Jazz, Rock n' Roll, and Americana!
RSVP
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The Board of Bedford Community Access Television (BedfordTV) is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie Duval as Executive Director of BedfordTV, effective August 1, 2018.
Katie comes to BedfordTV from NewTV in Newton, MA, where she served as Director of Member Services, managing the needs of NewTV's diverse membership and facilitating all aspects of member productions. She also taught innovative classes in television and film production for all ages and oversaw the day-to-day tasks of the Production Coordinator and Community Channel Interns. Prior to that she was Production Coordinator at HCAM-TV in Hingham, MA.
She graduated from UMass Amherst with a BA in Communications, and is a member of MassAccess and the Alliance for Community Media.
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MCC presents a Night at the Ballpark!!
See Red Sox stars of tomorrow on
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
Lowell Spinners Vs. Vermont Lake Monsters
Affiliated with the Oakland Athletics
Doors open at 5:30pm
Game start at 6:35pm
Spinner's Tickets are $6.00 each and come with $4.00 worth of Spinners Dollars pre-loaded onto each ticket purchased.
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A Place for Words
AFC Urgent Care
Atlantic Capital
Ametek
Atria Longmeadow Place
Baby Boomer Therapies
Baldwin Insurance
Barre 3
Barrett Sotherby's
Baudanza Electric
Bedford Aesthetics & Nutrition
Bedford Car Wash
Bedford Childrens Center
Bedford Family Connection
Bedford Farms
Bedford Florist
Bedford Funeral Home
Bedford Historical Society
Bedford Motel
Bedford Orthodonics
Bedford Research Foundation
Bedford VA Research
Bernstien Development
Billerica Crossings
Brightview
Brookline Bank
Brown & Brown, P.C.
Buono Pest Control
Callahans Karate Studio
Cambridge Savings Bank
Carlton & Duran, CPAs
Carlton Willard
Chestnut Dental
Christine Pinney Marketing
Cil Cangiano
Conagen
CouponSurfer
Creative Images of Boston
Database Quality
Design 1 Kitchen & Bath
Diane Cadigan Hughes
Diane Bridgeman, DDS
Davidson Law
Debbie Spencer Group
Doubletree Bedford Glenn Hotel
Doyon's
DSA Publishing
EDCO Collaborative
Edward Jones Investments
Einstein's Workshop
Elite Freestyle Karate
EMD Millipore
Express Pizza
First Parish Church
Formulatrix
Fujifilm
GE Instrafracture
Great Meadow Dental
Great Road Gallery
Hanscom Federal Credit Union
Harold Nichols Insurance
Holi Indian Restaurant
Heritage Springs
Huntington Tax Partners
I Am Verizon
Instrumentation Labs
Jesse's Pet Care
KB Jewelers
Ken's Deli
Law Offices of Ken Gordon
Leary Auto
Learning Express & Play
Lexington Symphony
Lincoln Liquors
Live Life Well
MITRE
Mead Brothers
Metro Southwest Job Center
Middlesex Savings Bank
My Hometown Map
New England Nurseries
New York Life
Nichols Insurance Agency
Patriot Pediatrics
Peter Quinn Insurance
Primrose School
Organix Spa & Salon
Quinstance
Red Heat Tavern
RER Fuel
Renzo Salon
Right At Home
Robyn Samuels Alliance Financial Services
Salem Five
Salon OZ
ServPro Lexington & Bedford
Sheena Santos
Short Stop Cafe
Slak Chiropratic Group
St. Michael's Parish Center
Suzanne & CO.
T & L Nail Salon
Techex
The Bedford Citizen
The Goddard School
The Well Effect
Virsa de Punjab
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