We're Not Just a Chamber of Commerce;
We're a Chamber of Connections
8

August 29, 2023

CHAMBER NEWS & UPDATES

Let's Play a Little Game 



Find the misspelled word in this newsletter (not the one to the right) to be entered into a drawing for a gift certificate to one of our member restaurants.


No cheating! Don't use spell check.


Send your answers to [email protected].


Happy hunting!




Join Us at Our Upcoming Events

Mark Your Calendars






Wednesday, September 6; 7:45 a.m.

Executive Express-O

in the Chamber Office

310 South Street

Plainville


Thursday, September 7; 10:00 a.m.

Ribbon Cutting

Enterprise Truck Rental

110 E.Washington Street

North Attleboro


Wednesday, September 13, 11:45 a.m.

Extreme Networking

Springhill Suites/TownPlace Suites

65 Ledgeview Way

Wrentham


Wednesday, September 27, 11:45 a.m.

Extreme Networking

Springhill Suites/TownPlace Suites

65 Ledgeview Way

Wrentham


Wednesday, October 4; 7:45 a.m.

Executive Express-O

in the Chamber Office

310 South Street

Plainville


Thursday, October 26; 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Alive after Five

Springhill Suites/TownPlace Suites

65 Ledgeview Way

Wrentham



Visit Their Website

Check Out Our Job Board


Our Job Board, an exclusive benefit for our member companies, is a valuable tool for hiring managers looking to attract and find new talent. Recently, we posted jobs available at URCC member Supercharged Entertainment at their Tap and Tavern.

Visit Our Job Board
Send your job postings to us and we'll add the information to our Job Board.

And for the past couple of months, we have been offering a new service. Each week, we'll post new job listings on our Facebook page.

Your posting will be seen by many potential job candidates.

Send your job postings to [email protected].

We're looking forward to helping you fill your open positions.
MEMBER NEWS AND UPDATES

Plainridge Park Casino Is Hiring


They are always looking for people who love to have fun.


At Plainridge Park Casino, you'll be part of an exciting and rapidly expanding industry. They've grown to become the most innovative omnichannel (in store, mobile, and online) provider of entertainment experience.


They're looking for people who are passionate about creating memorable experiences for their guests. If you're looking for a fun and rewarding career in the entertainment industry, then Plainridge Park Casino is the place for you.

See the Open Positions at Plainridge Park Casino

The Application Period for the Massachusetts STEP Grant Program Is Now Open 



The Massachusetts Office of International Trade and Investment ("MOITI"), in collaboration with the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network ("MSBDC") and the Massachusetts Export Center, is pleased to announce the Massachusetts State Trade Expansion Program ("STEP"). MOITI, through a grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration ("SBA"), will provide grants to eligible, approved Massachusetts small businesses for the purpose of increasing export sales of their goods and services.

  

The STEP Grant application deadline is Saturday, September 30 at 5:00 p.m.

There is no advantage for early applicants. You are encouraged to participate in the webinar on September 20 and compile a thoughtful, strategic application for the greatest chance of approval. 

 

www.mass.gov/export/step

 

Click here to contact the Massachusetts Export Center with questions.





Free Small Business Webinars



The Massachusetts Treasury’s Small Business Initiative (SBI) team is collaborating with Citizens to host FREE small business webinars this fall!

 

They are thrilled to announce the dates and topics for this series:

 

  • Creating a Business Strategy – September 13, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Business Operations – September 20, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Financial Management – September 27, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
  • Communicating your Business – October 4, 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

 

Please share the program flyer or forward this email to your constituents. Those interested can click here to register for one, some, or all of the above events. They hope to see you there!

 

The Small Business Initiative provides support for entrepreneurs in Massachusetts who are planning to start a small business or expand an existing one. They provide business planning, maintenance, and growth resources through their resource toolkit. Visit their website here to learn more and explore their interactive small business resource map.

HarborOne Bank 2013

Small Business Pitch Contest


HarborOne Bank is accepting applications for our Small Business Pitch Contest and an opportunity to win $10,000 through August 31. Click the link here to learn more.



Small Business Pitch Contest - HarborOne Bank




The Literacy Center

80 North Main St.

Attleboro, MA 02703

(508) 455-5382


Amanda Blount, MSW, Executive Director, has a message for you.


I don't often get the chance to write a personal email to our supporters, so I am excited to take this time to tell you about International Literacy Week, a new initiative we will be celebrating September 4-9. International Literacy Day was created by the United Nations and is celebrated around the world. We are marking the occasion with a few events aimed at celebrating, educating, and advancing our mission to help individuals on their path to self-sufficiency. 

 

I would specifically like to draw your attention to an exciting, in-person panel discussion entitled: "Immigration in Massachusetts: Facts & Myths." On the evening of Wednesday, September 6, we will be welcoming esteemed experts in the field of immigration, including representatives from United States Customs and Immigration; Project Citizenship; and the Justice Center of Southeastern Massachusetts to the Attleboro Public Library for a riveting and timely panel discussion, with opening remarks by Mayor Cathleen DeSimone. Experts in immigration law and process, our panelists will be discussing (and debunking!) information about the current migrant crisis occurring across the commonwealth, as well as the process by which newcomers to the United States are able to work, live, and thrive in our communities. The vast majority of TLC's students are immigrants and this panel will provide us with the opportunity to share some of what we know about immigration with the public. Snacks and beverages will be served. Space is limited. I hope you will join us - you can RSVP right now by clicking here.

 

In addition to the panel, we will also be hosting a virtual storytelling event on September 5; a community-wide Literacy Bingo game throughout the week; an open house at TLC on Sept. 7; and a fundraising & fact-sharing campaign on Friday, September 8. Lastly, we will be closing the week with a Family Literacy Picnic at Balfour Park on Sept. 9. We hope you will join us for all of these wonderful events, but if you can't make them all, please join in whatever you can!

 

If you can donate to our Literacy Day Campaign, please do so. We are trying to raise $5,000 on International Literacy Day - but you don't have to wait to contribute. We'd be honored to have your early support!

 

Literacy is so much more than learning to read and write. It is about survival. It is about communication and information sharing. It is the foundation by which we build sustainable and peaceful societies. We hope you will join us and the international community in celebrating literacy in all its forms!

 

International Literacy Day Schedule of Events

 

Visit the International Literacy Day 2023 website to learn more!

Free Community College for Adults 25+ to launch at Bristol Community College this Fall


Bristol Community College is excited to announce that, with the passing of the 2023/2024 state budget and subject to state appropriation, MassReconnect will officially launch at the college for the upcoming Fall semester, beginning September 5.  



MassReconnect will cover the cost of community college for Massachusetts residents 25 or older without a previous college degree and bring higher education within reach for adult learners in our region. 


The program is available to new and current Bristol students.


“While Bristol Community College has so much to offer adult learners, with specialized resources to help them learn, grow, and succeed – students still often face financial struggles. The life-changing MassReconnect opportunity will relieve the financial burden of college expenses so that students can make college possible,” said Dr. Laura L. Douglas, president of Bristol Community College. 


Bristol’s enrollment staff has been working diligently to prepare for the implementation of MassReconnect. The college’s Admissions, Financial Aid, Testing, and Advising teams are ready to assist students through the enrollment process quickly, so they can utilize MassReconnect as soon as possible.


There are three main requirements and steps students can take to prepare for MassReconnect eligibility. As a last-dollar-in program, MassReconnect requires that students complete their FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Students must also be admitted to a certificate or degree program and registered for six or more credits. Bristol's financial aid, admissions, and advising staff is available to assist students and their families complete these important steps. August is the peak processing time for enrollment, so it is important for students to get their FAFSA in now to ensure their plans are solidified in time for the start of classes.


MassReconnect aligns with Bristol Community College’s Strategic Plan, which outlines goals in increasing the educational attainment of adult learners to support a talent pipeline in our region. The average age of a Bristol student is 25 years old. Approximately 40% of students in the Fall 2022 and Spring 2023 semesters were adult students. 

 

For more information about MassReconnect at Bristol Community College, including eligibility requirements or getting started at the college, please visit www.BristolCC.edu/MassReconnect or email [email protected]

The Patio, the Loft, the Revolution Lounge, Entertainment, Cornhole, and, of Course, Slots, Barstool Sports Book, and Table Games. Wow!


If you're looking for excitement and winning at a New England casino, Plainridge Park Casino, the hometown casino, is for you. You can play at over 1,200 slots or electronic table games, enjoy live local entertainment, choose from seven outstanding dining outlets, or hold your meeting or reception at one of their event venues. And they simulcast horse races around the country. You'll find an exciting experience and hometown hospitality every time you visit.


Plainridge Park Casino is proud of its PENN Heroes program and is excited to keep growing. The PENN Heroes rewards program gives our nation’s active-duty military, veterans and first responders access to special discounts, promotions, and events. It’s PENN National's way to offer thanks for their commitment to our country and communities.


Slack's Oyster House and Grill and the Food Court are open.

You can make reservations on the Plainridge Park Casino home page.


Your weekend STARTS ON THE PATIO and at the Home Stretch Food Truck.


The patio is open Thursday 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Friday 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Saturday 1:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., and Sunday 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.


Click Here for the Home Stretch Food Truck Menu

The Loft features a wide variety of entertainment from stand-up comedians and comic hypnotists to live swing bands and musicians. Looking for an intimate night out? Come to The Loft and see what everyone is talking about. Friday and Saturday from 8:00 p.m. to midnight, the Revolution Lounge features the area's best live bands and DJs. Whether you want to dance the night away or relax and hang out with friends, the Revolution Lounge is a great place to unwind after a long week. Best of all, all shows at the Revolution Lounge are completely FREE with no cover charge. No ticket or reservation required!


Dueling Pianos at The Loft


September 23 • Dueling Pianos, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.



And here's the Revolution Lounge's liine up for September.


September 1 • Randy & the Rockers New Band

September 2 • Front & Center

September 8 • Carolyn Rae & the Rumors New Band

September 9 • Thirty 6 Red

September 16 • XS Band

September 22 • Hipshpt

September 23 • Northeast Groove

September 29 • Mugsy

September 30 • Richie Rich & 24 Karat Funk New Band





URCC Corporate Partner 




Check out their home page for upcoming events.

An Unlikely Story
111 South Street
Plainville
(508) 699-0244

Sign up for their weekly enewsletter on their home page.

Check out their Staff Picks section and take advantage of the expertise of their amazing booksellers.

Be sure to visit the Unlikely Café for a hot chocolate or delicious hot soup!

Café: 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. daily
Kitchen: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. daily 


Click Here for the Café Menu
Visit her website
MEMBER OPPORTUNITIES
Massachusetts Small Business Development Center
Meetings Conducted via Phone and Conference Call

Nancy Lowd, Senior Business Advisor at the Massachusetts Small Business Development Center (MSBDC), will be conducting meetings by phone and conference call for the foreseeable future.

Call 508-673-9783 for a virtual appointment
The MSBDC is committed to helping your business succeed in Massachusetts. They provide free, confidential, one-to-one business assistance, and free or low-cost educational training programs to prospective and existing small businesses throughout the Commonwealth. The MSBDC fosters the start, growth, and sustainability of small business by providing high-quality, in-depth advising, training, and capital access.
JOIN US
URCC MONTHLY MEETINGS

Our Extreme Networking group, hosted by Marcie Rappa of URCC member Better Living Real Estate meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., at member Springhill Suites/Townplace Suites in Wrentham. This exclusive group focuses on providing referrals so only one person from each profession is invited to attend.

Executive Express-O, hosted by URCC Chairman of the Board Josh Vanada, meets in our office the first Wednesday of every month.

Small Business Advising with the Small Business Administration is available remotely.

Help Us Thank Our Chairman's Circle Member
Help Us Thank Our Corporate Partners