Welcome to the February issue of Soundings. This edition coincides with the beginning of Black History Month, officially known as African American History Month. In 1976, fifty years after its origins as a week-long event, President Gerald Ford proclaimed the first African American History Month “to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.” The Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce invites all our readers to join us in celebrating the contributions of African Americans to greater Cape Ann's history and culture throughout the month of February and all year long.

Whether it be 100 years or 17 years after the Chamber's founding, a common question businesses ask is "why should I belong to the Chamber of Commerce?". In the fall of 1939 when this article was printed, the answers to this question were slightly different from what they would be if you asked a business owner today. Take a look back in time to see some of the projects the then Gloucester Chamber of Commerce had aided in its first 17 years. While different, many of these projects fit our current ideals which are promoting our members and region, strengthening our businesses, and supporting our community.

Due to the recent significant increase in cases nationally and locally, we are providing you with a weekly snapshot of current metrics - please click on the button below for national, state, county and city/town data.

For additional information related to the COVID-19 pandemic, please see the "COVID-19 Updates" section below.

CEO and President February Update

As we rapidly race downhill from January’s Covid peak we are increasingly optimistic for a terrific 2022. Just as we saw last year, we are confident that the spring and summer seasons will see a renewed level of normalcy and with it, an economic boost from pent-up demand for getting out and enjoying all that Greater Cape Ann has to offer. As an added boost this year we expect renewed visitation from air travelers, both domestic and internationally.

The winter has become a busy time for the Greater Cape Ann Tourism Council, with a number of wintertime activities and a focus on planning for summer and other seasons. These were among the topics we covered in our January Tourism Council meeting on January 21.

The Chamber’s Government Affairs Council held its regular monthly meeting on January 11, with members attending in person and via Zoom. At their meeting the Council recommended housing as the focus topic for the annual Economic Outlook Breakfast set for March 1. The group also agreed with the recommendation of member Jim Brown to have Chamber staff reach out to Cynthia Nina-Soto to be the keynote speaker.

Flip through this month's Health & Wellness newsletter to stay updated on wellness news and information. With the upcoming Valentine's Day holiday, the committee focuses on being kind and sharing the love.

GCACC CEO Ken Riehl is joined by Chamber Board President Caitlyn Pszenny and the Chamber's Director of Events, Sara Bowen as they discuss the busy months ahead. Tune in and mark your calendars for what will be a busy February and March!

Did you know your Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce Membership gives you access to many member benefits, one of them being access to health care programs? The Chamber has partnered with local area brokers to offer expert representation for a one-stop-shop for health, dental, and other employee benefits.

Whether you are self-employed, run a small business, or are an individual, our healthcare representatives will find the best options for you at the best price. This service is FREE to Chamber members.

Occurring on the first Thursday of the month at 9am, the Greater Cape Ann Chamber hosts Coffee & Connections, a virtual networking event! We will continue holding these via zoom so that anyone may join us from anywhere. Meet new people, expand your business connections and stay in touch with friends and colleagues.

Get a closer look at Rocky Neck Now 2022, mingle with artists and enjoy treats from The Last Stop while networking with fellow Chamber members. This event is free and masks are required.

Gold Sponsor: Cape Ann Savings Bank

The Chamber's Economic Outlook Breakfast has been held annually for over 30 years. Join us in conversation with award winning Realtor and business owner, Cynthia Nina-Soto as we discuss economic development as it relates to job creation, business development, and stabilized neighborhoods.

Cynthia is a board member at Harborlight Community Partners and a fierce affordable housing advocate.

Celebrate our 100th year with us! We’re safely gathering with Greater Cape Ann’s business leaders and local, city, and state officials at the beautiful Beauport Hotel to enjoy delicious food, great company, and dance the night away on Thursday, March 10. Tickets are now available and going fast. See the registration page for COVID protocols.

The Chamber’s coveted Winter Birding Boat Trip to Stellwagen Bank is sold out, but you may join the waitlist! Set to depart on Saturday, March 12 with 7 Seas Whale Watch, attendees will have the opportunity to see many species of marine wildlife in addition to the concentration of winter seabirds. Don’t hesitate to reserve your spot today on the waitlist.

On Thursday, March 17, the community of greater Cape Ann will come together once more to try their luck in our Irish Sweepstakes. 12 lucky leprechauns will win a "pot of gold", ranging from $500 - $10,000! Contact the Chamber today to purchase your lucky ticket!

Thank you to our sponsor: SeniorCare Inc., Seashore Comfort Solutions

This January the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting for Happy Humpback Cafe in Magnolia to celebrate their grand opening. Whether it be a new business, a new location, or a grand reopening, we want to help you celebrate! Email Sam at sam@capeannchamber.com to schedule your ribbon cutting today.

Getting involved with committees and councils you care about connects you to the information and people that will enhance the value of your membership. The Greater Cape Ann Chamber offers current members a range of opportunities to share their expertise and enthusiasm with the community. Build your business relationships as we work together to help our community prosper.

January was a quiet month for events with the Chamber as we assessed the current COVID climate. With guidance from our Board, we ultimately made the decision to postpone our Annual Celebration to a date when we felt we could gather safely. We’ll be celebrating in person on March 10 at the Beauport Hotel. If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, there’s still time. We hope to see you on the dance floor!

17 Railroad Ave. | Rockport

(978) 999-5241

57 Main St. | Gloucester

(978) 283-4407

110 County Rd. | Ipswich

(978) 356-9622

34 Mt. Pleasant Ave. | Gloucester

(978) 290-3342

15 Market St. | Ipswich

(978) 356-2776

40 Tioga Way | Marblehead

236 Cabot Street | Beverly

(978) 304-0495

30 Bearskin Neck | Rockport

(317) 246-9096

65 Eastern Ave. | Essex

(978) 768-3925

1 Ferncroft Rd. | Danvers

(978) 762-4000

This month we are proud to spotlight Montserrat College of Art where the minds of the students create the unimaginable. Artists from around the world seek the chance to broaden their talents, and think outside of the box at Montserrat. If you are looking to witness the arts or attend this creative arts school click the link below to learn more.

Cape Ann Savings Bank, the Institution for Savings and BankGloucester pledged a combined $200,000 toward the $1.75 million fundraising goal of the Gloucester400+ Organizing Committee.

Join AVP on Saturday, February 12, 7:30pm, from the comforts of your own home, as your friends and neighbors attempt to make you smile, laugh- maybe even cry (or roll your eyes)! You will certainly see some familiar faces! There is no charge for this event, though we welcome donations to AVP Scholarship Fund. All donations collected from the 2022 Cabaret will go to the Annisquam Village Players Theatricals Arts Scholarship Fund.

The Cape Ann Artisans are pleased to announce the 39th Annual Spring and Fall Open Studios, plus two NEW events that were introduced as trials in recent years. The Spring Tour is June 4-5, the Fall Tour is October 8-9. The summer Mini-Tour event will be held on Saturday, August 13th and the new Winter Holiday ”Pop-In” on Saturday, December 3rd. Now visitors and residents can see the studios in all four seasons!

Make a donation to SeniorCare's Meals on Wheels program before February 9, 2022, and a Valentine will be delivered to a North Shore elder in your name. Join Us Online on Feb 14, 2022, at 10 AM for a special photo montage of past breakfasts.

Learn how to use the free MyLinks app to gather, manage and share your health records from one secure location. Register for this free webinar now as space is limited.

Sawyer Free Library to host photographer Joe Wallace to speak about his powerful photo exhibit "Day After Yesterday: Portraits of Dementia" which is on display in the Library's Matz Gallery through February.

Community Listening Session

Wednesday, February 9 | 6 - 7:30 PM

Get outdoors for a magical night for grownups. Savor a hot cocktail from the 1634 Meadery while you warm up at a fire pit. Grab a tasty bite from Empanada Dada or a cup of hearty chili. Enjoy live music and a light show. Admission includes onsite parking, entertainment, food, and one drink ticket. Additional drinks may be purchased onsite.

Plan an afternoon of fun and friendship celebrating love with your family and close ones at the Misselwood House estate! While enjoying the gorgeous view of the ocean, experience preparing a delectable brunch with our very own pastry chef, Rebecca Doyon!

Due to its popularity, we are screening an encore presentation of Fire Shut Up in My Bones! Yannick Nézet-Séguin conducts Grammy Award–winning jazz musician and composer Terence Blanchard’s acclaimed adaptation of the celebrated memoir by New York Times columnist Charles M. Blow.

John Wigglesworth, science and math teacher at the Waring School in Beverly will give an overview of the long-term study that SEA Education Association of Woods Hole has conducted to quantify the amount and concentration of plastic pollution in the Western Boundaries of the North Atlantic.

What responsibility do museums have to actively collect and exhibit Black history? How can this responsibility be fulfilled through collaborative exhibition practices? Doneeca Thurston, Director of the Lynn Museum will share the conception, collection, and implementation of the Lynn Museum’s exhibition Untold Stories: A History of Black People in Lynn. She will be joined by Kyera Singleton, Executive Director of the Royall House & Slave Quarters in Medford, MA to discuss the growth and change of both institutions.

Join National Heritage Fellow Harold Burnham, and his Apprentice KD Montgomery (Dench) for an update on their progress for the Massachusetts Cultural Council's Traditional Arts Apprenticeship. After a hiatus for the summer sailing season Harold & KD are back working on the rehabilitation of Sylvina W. Beal, the return home of Schooner Isabella, and all manner of shipyard nonsense.

Posting an event on our community calendar is a great way to gain exposure and promote your business's upcoming events. Take advantage of this FREE member benefit and post yours today by logging into your account!

*Contact Sam at sam@capeannchamber.com if you need assistance

Moderna COVID-19 vaccines will be available for ages 18+ and seasonal flu vaccines for ages 6 months+. Registration is preferred. Use the link below to register. Please contact Carol Mondello at 978-238-9877 or

cmondello@gloucester-ma.gov for assistance

Those without Health Insurance will NOT be turned away. Vaccines are Free for ALL

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests from USPS.com. Here’s what you need to know about your order:

Limit of one order per residential address

One order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests.

Orders will ship free starting in late January

Click the link below, and complete the form to place your order. No credit card information is required.

PCR testing site has opened in the Stage Fort Park parking lot. Testing is no longer by appointment only, and walk ins are accepted 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Monday – Saturday. If you would like to make an appointment, click the link below.

Conley's Drug Store is no longer offering in-store vaccinations. Please go to their new clinic located at 79 Turnpike Road in Ipswich. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday 10 AM - 5 PM.

Conley's also sells at home antigen tests, KN95 masks, and other protective equipment.

Identification and health insurance are not required. Walk-ins will be accepted while supplies last at each clinic.

Ipswich | Mondays from 2 - 6 PM

Our Lady of Hope Rectory

Essex | Thursdays from 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

Town Hall Annex

Rockport | Saturdays from 10 AM-Noon

Community House

Located at 40 Beach Street in Manchester, Allen's Pharmacy has RT-PCR test appointments available this week. Their RT-PCR test device offers a runtime of 30 minutes which allows them to provide you with same day results. RT-PCR tests are considered the "gold-standard" of COVID-19 testing. This molecular test is administered using an anterior nasal swab to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material or RNA.

With COVID-19 rules and regulations constantly changing within our greater Cape Ann communities, we encourage you to visit our COVID-19 page to get caught up on all the information related to the pandemic.

LEAP is now recruiting employers and

community members! Be a “Career Mentor” and virtually advise a youth/young adult summer intern in a six-week project-based remote learning experience.

Dan Martiniello, Lender Relations Specialist with the U. S. Small Business Administration, will provide an update on SBA Resources via Zoom.

At this workshop webinar you will learn about:

•Current guidance on SBA Coronavirus Small Business Relief Options

•SBA flagship loan program enhancements (7a, 504, and Microloan programs)

•Current technical assistance resources available to the small business community

Join leading authorities and learn how the state’s economic development programs can be applied to your business. In this time of recovery, it’s critical that our business community take advantage of all the resources the Commonwealth has to offer – from job recruitment to hiring incentives, tax credits to workforce training, grants and money-saving initiatives, and everything in between. Join us and see how both MassHire BizWorks can assist your business.

January 18, 2022 – The Essex National Heritage Commission (Essex Heritage), in keeping with its long tradition of supporting the region’s unique cultural heritage, announced the start of the 2022 Partnership Grant program cycle, now through February 25. Over the next year, the 12 grant recipients will be working to implement a diverse range of educational, interpretive, accessibility and preservation projects throughout Boston’s North Shore and the Merrimack Valley. Any eligible organization is encouraged to apply, the application process has been designed with simplicity in mind and most applications take less than an hour to complete.

The new Creative County Initiative website is user-friendly and beautiful. Over the next two months, website developers would like to collect at least 200 Artist and Organization Profiles, and populate the events page with as many live and virtual events, workshops, and opportunities as possible. Organizers plan to launch a major promotional campaign in March as they build public awareness of this amazing resource.

If you’re driven and seeking training in your professional career, we are looking for you! Connected Home Care offers free training and career development for its employees. To learn more about an exciting career opportunity apply today!

This is a dynamic, flexible, 20-30 hour/week job for someone with strong communication, project management, and administrative skills who is passionate about supporting public schools. GHS alumni and anyone that reflects our diverse school community are encouraged to apply.

Works by Jesse DeBenedictis, LLC is the North Shore’s premier residential contractor, with a staff of 30. Based in downtown Beverly, the company is known for superior quality, high-end residential construction, both new and remodel. You can learn more about us by visiting worksbyjd.com

Schooner Adventure is seeking a new Executive Director in partnership with Pillar Search & HR Consulting. Please visit their opportunities page below to learn more about this exciting leadership position.

Cape Ann Savings Bank is a $850 million mutual savings bank, serving the Cape Ann Community for 175 years! In 2022, the Bank will be opening the new “Gloucester Crossing Branch” at 4 School House Road in Gloucester. “We are growing and hiring at ALL locations”. Cape Ann Savings Bank prides itself in offering its employees an excellent benefits package that includes health and dental insurance, 401(k), defined benefit plan, life insurance and more! Click below to view their current job openings.

Action Inc. has more than 70 current employees. For over 50 years, our staff has been committed to promoting social change and improving our community. Now, we are looking for dedicated individuals – who want to make a difference – to fill the positions listed below. Apply now to join our team!

Anthony & Dodge is a full-service, progressive public accounting firm located north of Boston.

Our firm has been providing consulting, tax, and accounting services to individuals and businesses for over thirty years. We believe in a hands-on approach which translates into an intimate knowledge of our client’s personal and business financial and tax needs. We are currently seeking a self-motivated, highly organized, team player with experience in public accounting to lead tax and accounting engagements.

Gloucester Marine Genomics Institute (GMGI) addresses critical challenges facing our oceans, human health and the environment through innovative scientific research and education. By bringing world-class science and transformative workforce development to Gloucester’s historic waterfront, GMGI is catalyzing the regional economy.

Senior Care is Hiring for Multiple Positions

Local Colors Artists' Cooperative is Looking For Artists

 

If you are interested in promoting with the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce and sponsoring this newsletter, please contact Ken Riehl at ken@capeannchamber.com