July, 2019
Chamber Chat Newsletter
News from the Executive Director

Now that summer has arrived giving us the great weather we had for our celebration of the 4 th of July, it’s time to reflect upon how we as citizens of this great nation can recognize how fortunate we are to be blessed with living in the greatest country on the face of the earth.
We may face many difficulties as a Town, State and Nation but we are all American’s. As we celebrate our National Independence Day – let’s all take stock and be thankful for the blessings that we do have!
A good place to start with giving thanks is to the two terrific organizations within our community that gave us such a truly wonderful 4 th of July celebration!  The Wakefield Independence Day Committee and West Side Social Club went above and beyond again this year. Also, let us not forget the many volunteers and sponsors who gave up their own time and financial resources so the rest of us could have a very enjoyable 4th of July celebration. THANK YOU AGAIN TOO ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY AND GOOD WILL!!

The month of June was another filled with on-going activities, highlighted by our Annual Meeting held at the Four Points Sheraton. Our guest speaker, Doug Meehan from TV Channel 5, was a resounding hit with the audience. Doug entertained the group with a variety of interesting stories and experiences from his many years as a TV reporter.

Congratulations 2019 Annual Award winners:

New Chamber Business of the Year –

Chamber Business of the Year –

James E. Chisholm, Business Person of the Year – Jack Urbaczewski, Dockside Restaurant

Community Service Award –

We had another terrific Business After Hours networking event hosted by our good friends at Dockside . The focus of the evening, in addition to the usual camaraderie and good cheer, was to raise funds for the Wakefield Food Pantry . A big thank you to the Urbaczewski family for their kindness and generosity. Also, thank you to all in attendance who assisted with the donations for the food pantry.  
 
July, as usual, we began our month with our breakfast at Brother’s , always a good crowd and strong fellowship. Congratulations to Jim and Marie of Brothers for being honored as Grand Marshalls of this year’s 4 th of July parade by the Wakefield Independence Day Committee!
Our Newsletter Sponsors:
Congratulations to Justina at Remedy Exchange for qualifying for the Sign Improvement Program.
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
Annual Meeting 2019
Thank you to our sponsors: The Savings Bank, Wakefield Co-operative Bank & First Financial Trust
WHAT'S TO COME
We will be presenting a very important session for our members on July 23 rd at Lakeside Inn on about the Paid Family & Medifcal Leave Act. The Massachusetts legislature has postponed the implementation of this piece of legislation and it is important that our members educate themselves on how this might impact their businesses. Come and listen to William Alpine, Director of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Family and Medical Leave and learn how this law will affect you and your business.
 
The Chamber in cooperation with our friends at the North Shore Music Theatre are offering a member discount program on their upcoming Disney show FREAKY FRIDAY. An email has been sent to members with the details. The Theatre is offering a 10% discount on any tickets to any of its regularly scheduled shows. Plan on taking advantage of this great summer offer, to bring family, friends, co-workers or employees for a summer outing of your own!! Enjoy a great show at a great price and with groups of 10 or more the discount will grow. 

For those that may be interested in joining other Chamber members in attending a show, we here in the Chamber office are planning on attending the show on Thursday July 18. So if you would like to see a show and mingle with other Chamber members, contact us at the Chamber office for more details.

Plans are underway for our next Annual Summer outing so please keep an eye out for that announcement. Last year we sold out quickly so be sure not to delay!

Quote for the month:
“To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone” – Reba McEntire
Do you have an event, promotion, or information you would like us to share with the community? We will be attending the Farmers Market once a month and would be happy to distribute your information. The next time we will be there is July 13th. Contact Marie if you are interested.
Summer Kick Off After Hours at Dockside Restaurant