Making a Difference
Our Members. Our Community. Our Region.
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Holidays on Cape Ann | Photo Credit: Kate Donovan Photography
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CEO and President Update
With the wind gusting and temperatures falling, it is indeed beginning to feel a bit like Christmas and the holidays on Cape Ann. We are in full holiday mode as we gear up to bring Santa – safely – to Cape Ann’s shores, encouraging residents and visitors to shop local, and celebrating the season in each of our four communities.
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December 2020 Love Cape Ann Podcast
Join the Chamber's CEO Ken Riehl, 2020 Chamber President Tony Sapienza, and our Director of Events Sara Bowen, as they discuss all we have planned for December and our 33rd Annual Love Cape Ann Fundraising Auction.
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Government Affairs Council Update
At the Council’s most recent meeting on November 10, Ken gave an update on the Chamber operations and initiatives, including the North Shore Blue Economy. Ken reported that the group is working to complete the Phase 1 report. Ken also gave brief updates on the Governor’s recent executive order limiting business hours and gatherings, and the status of the town of Essex’s deliberations on special event/ entertainment licensing.
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View of Good Harbor Beach from the Blue Shutters Beachside Inn |
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Tourism Council Update
The weeks from late October to late November are an important time for Cape Ann’s tourism community, as we bring to close the “bridge” period between the summer season and the holidays. And given the challenges of 2020, the review of our fall tourism experiences and our discussion of plans for the seasons ahead were particularly critical. This was the focus of our November 20 Tourism Council meeting
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Health & Wellness Committee Update
The Health & Wellness Committee meets regularly, typically on the first Thursday or Friday of each month. We are committed to bringing news, information, and resources regarding Health & Wellness to our Cape Ann Communities. The committee consists of representatives from businesses and organizations that provide critical goods and services.
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Act NOW! Take Advantage of Cape Ann's BEST Advertising Opportunities for Businesses of All Industries
The Cape Ann Guide & Directory , Cape Ann Map and Rockport Map are THE preeminent publications for the region and offer incredible promotional opportunities for businesses. We print more than 250,000 total pieces and distribute all year around Cape Ann and the greater North Shore region, as well as into Boston and beyond. Local distribution includes to high traffic businesses (e.g., accommodations, banks, restaurants, grocery stores), railway stations, visitor centers, local grocery stores, and residences, and more! To have your business seen by THOUSANDS of potential customers, act now and advertise in our 2021 publications!
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Mass Cultural Council Grants Available for Cape Ann Cultural Organizations
The Cultural Organization Economic Recovery Grant Program offers grants to support Massachusetts nonprofit cultural organizations negatively impacted by the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic. An information session will be held today, December 1 at 4 pm. To register, please click here. For more information and to apply please click here. Application deadline is December 11, 2020.
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FDA Advisory Committee to Meet December 10 on Pfizer’s COVID-19 Vaccine Candidate
The FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) will meet on December 10 to discuss the request for emergency use authorization (EUA) of a COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer, Inc. in partnership with BioNTech Manufacturing GmbH. Read the FDA’s November 20 press release here.
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CDC Offers Updated Guidance for COVID-19 Safety & Prevention.
For the most up-to-date guidance from the Centers for Disease Prevention please click here
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Massachusetts Updates List of COVID-19 Lower Risk States
Vermont is the most recent state to be removed from the list of lower-risk states. The only remaining lower-risk state for purposes of the Massachusetts Travel Order is Hawaii.
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Information Resources
For comprehensive COVID-19 information please visit the Chamber’s special Coronavirus page.
To view the most recent (November 25) weekly COVID-19 Command Center Situation Report from the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), please click here.
For the latest COVID-19 news and information for Massachusetts, please visit www.mass.gov. To view the latest nationwide case information published daily by the CDC please click here.
For the most recent Legislative and COVID-19 newsletter from the office of State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante please click here.
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Coffee & Connections
Thursday, December 3, 10 AM
We invite you to join us THIS THURSDAY at our new time, 10 AM. Our monthly networking event is a fantastic opportunity to expand your business connections, and stay in touch with friends and colleagues.
This month we will be hearing an update from our Health & Wellness Committee, led by Committee Chair, Scott Muir.
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33rd Annual Love Cape Ann Fundraising Auction, November 16-28
We’re grateful to all of you, our community on Cape Ann, for making this year’s auction an incredible success. As this year has been quite different for everyone, we were able to successfully fundraise for the business community on Cape Ann, helping to alleviate the burden of those who have been most impacted by the pandemic. We’d like to thank you all for your time and contributions this year; this is truly what makes Cape Ann a special place to live, work, and play. We wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season.
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Thank You to Our Sponsors
Presenting Partner
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Bronze Sponsors:
Suppoting Sponsors:
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Ken Riehl, Chamber CEO with Sage Floral Studio |
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Small Business Saturday
November 28
The Chamber team was out promoting local businesses from all four Cape Ann commnunities this weekend. We posted photos of our member businesses on Facebook and Instagram as we safely toured Cape Ann.
Please send us a photo or short video of you in your store and we will share it – email to [email protected].
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Screenshot of November's Coffee & Connections Event |
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Coffee & Connections, November 5
November's virtual networking event was jam packed as we heard updates from our Tourism Committee, led by 2020 Chamber President, Tony Sapienza of the Blue Shutters Beachside Inn. Many new members were in attendance and it was wonderful to welcome new businesses to our community and watch them make important connections.
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Please Remember to Shop Local
This Holiday Season
For the Chamber team, promoting our member businesses is much more than a job, it is a way of life. Although Small Business Saturday is behind us, we are continuing our mission of promoting our members and the region. Especially this year our businesses need our support more than ever, so please shop local this holiday season.
For a list of businesses to support, please view our member directory here.
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A Great Way to Support Local Businesses is by Purchasing
A Cape Ann Gift Check This Holiday Season
Cape Ann Gift Checks are the perfect gift to give this holiday season and are a great way to support local business, as they can only be redeemed at more than 200 participating local businesses. We sell more than $70,000 GCs a year, and have put over $1,000,000 back into the local economy over the life of the program. These can be purchased at the Chamber Office, both Shaw's locations, and Tuck's Candy & Gifts in Rockport.
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MyLocalMA Business of the Week -
Look of Joy Photography & Boston Pro Headshots
Jurek Schreiner is a portrait and wedding photographer based in Gloucester. He operates two businesses, Look of Joy Photography and Boston Pro Headshot. His work can be viewed on both websites and you can follow Jurek on Instagram @alohajurek.
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Shop Backyard Growers This Holiday Season! Open Through December 22
Backyard Growers’ holiday pop-up shop is now open. The online shop is chock full of unique garden- and nature-themed gifts that will bring festive fun to family and friends all year round. Proceeds support Backyard Growers’ school, backyard, and community garden programs. All items come “ready-to-give” in a craft paper gift bag and are available for curbside pick-up only at 3 Duncan Street.
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Look of Joy Photography/Boston Pro Headshots Offers Killer Business Headshot Deal to the Community
It’s time to look great on your website, social media, in your email signature and in print! Look of Joy Photography/ Boston Pro Headshots will help you make an impression that combines a top professional modern look with a sense of friendliness and approachability, and they'll make it a fun, relaxed experience. Book your slot for only $95 on December 7 at the Magnolia Library in Gloucester.
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Nor'east Cleaners Offers Home & Office Laundry Service with Free Pickup & Delivery
Besides offering dry cleaning, wet cleaning and laundering shirts, Nor'east Cleaners offers wash, dry, & fold service. This service is offered at their convenient 24/7 drop boxes, stores, and your home or office when you use their free pickup and delivery service.
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Esmeralda Jewelry, Accessories & Gifts in Rockport is Offering Custom Gift Boxes for Businesses
As we approach the Holiday season, many businesses will want to say "Thank You" to their hard working employees. Esmeralda Jewelry offers a variety of gift box options so you can find a gift for everyone. The gift boxes can be customized to whatever products you like, and are available directly in store or online.
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Woodman's of Essex
Holiday Gift Card Sale
Our friends at Woodman's of Essex are starting their holiday gift card sale early this year. Now through December 31 get a $20 FREE gift card when you buy $100 in Restaurant Gift Cards.
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Support Veteran-Owned Local Businesses
American Legion Post 3 has started a program to identify all veteran-owned businesses and they need your help. The Cape Ann Chamber strongly supports this endeavor. Legion Post 3 encourages all veteran-owned companies who are not identified to send their business cards to 8 Washington Street, Gloucester.
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Cape Ann YMCA Membership Special - No Cost to Join Until February 15
From November 9 to Black Friday, you can join the Cape Ann YMCA cost free until February 15. The first 100 people to take advantage of this fantastic special can choose a piece of athletic apparel. Click here to view the options and contact Helene Feeley for more information: [email protected] or 978 283-0470 ext 1708.
Tours of the new facility are also available, contact Chrissy for more information (917) 301-7657.
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One-of-a-Kind Rugs and Tapestries Designed by J.S. Hurd Design
Owner Joanne Hurd of J.S. Hurd Design can customize the size, pattern, and colorway to fit both your personal style and home decor. The rugs & tapestries are finely hand-knotted by master weavers in Nepal. These treasures - entirely handmade - are designed to last a lifetime.
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Local Sales, Discounts & Promotions
Posting a Shop Our Member deal is a great way to gain exposure for your business by highlighting your special promotions. Take advantage of this FREE member benefit and list yours today by logging into your account!
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Local Colors Artists' Cooperative Is Looking For Artists
Exhibit your work in the gallery and enjoy being among artists where you'll find a positive, creative, and collaborative environment. Come in for an introduction, look around, and get an application for membership.
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Promote Your Business by Adopting the Gloucester Police Department's New Community Resource Dog
To help raise money to pay for Ace, The Gloucester Police Department's new community resource dog, the GPD is offering local businesses the opportunity to “Adopt” Ace for a month. Ace wears a vest that has removable patches attached. On one of those patches the GPD would include your business logo. Please contact Lieutenant Nicastro of the Community Impact Unit at (978) 325-5471 for more information.
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Egan Law Center Launches E-Newsletter
Lindsey E. Egan, founder of Egan Law Center recently launched the law firm's first newsletter. It contains essential information on co-parenting during the holidays, self-care tips, and also includes a delicious holiday receipe and features articles from special guests.
Egan Law Center specializes in family law and estate planning, but considers the practice to be a "boutique law office," constantly evolving to meet the needs of their clients.
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Take Cape Ann Mass In Motion’s Bike Friendly Community Survey
The goal of this survey is to acquire important feedback on making Cape Ann roads safer for all. Whether you drive, walk, or bike, your participation in this survey will help to better inform community leaders on Active Transportation opportunities.
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The Manchester 375th Committee and the Manchester Historical Museum Announce Special Gift to the Community
In recognition of 2020, Manchester’s 375th anniversary year, “The History of the Meeting Houses of Manchester-By-The-Sea, Massachusetts” has just been completed and is a celebratory gift to the community. This 56 page booklet was written by historian and noted local author, Robert Booth.
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The Gloucester Female Charitable Association is now accepting Grant Proposals for the 2020-2021 Grant Cycle
The Mission of the Gloucester Female Charitable Association is to provide support to those organizations that enhance and support the lives of under-served women and children in the Greater Gloucester area. Grant proposals must support the mission of the Gloucester Female Charitable Association. All completed applications are due by December 11, 2020.
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Beverly and Addison Gilbert Hospitals Announce Guidelines for Grant Program that Benefits Non-Profits
This year, Addison Gilbert Hospital and Beverly Hospital are seeking proposals that focus on addressing social determinants of health including access to technology. Through this grant process, up to $100,000 will be awarded to non-profit organizations. The deadline to be considered is December 4, 2020
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Support the Robicheau Family, A Local Family in Need
A local family needs our help with the costs of their beloved husband and father, David Robicheau's medical expenses. David has faced medical challenges which have severely impacted him and his young family. Click the link below to learn more about the family and how you can help.
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Arts Abound Launches New E-Commerce Website Just in Time for the Holidays
After several months in the works, Arts Abound is pleased to announce that they now have an e-commerce site. It is now easier than ever to support local artists and your favorite small business.
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Winter Lights on Cape Ann
November 27 - January 1
Over 150 businesses will be lit up throughout Cape Ann to help us all celebrate the joys of the season. A Drive- Map will be produced, highlighting Rockport, Gloucester, Essex and Manchester's participating businesses and offered to all for an enchanting exhibit.
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Christmas in Gloucester
Shop Local • Shop Downtown
November 27 - December 17
There are many fun and safe events happening this holiday season, including the ever so popular, Ladies' and Men's Nights. Click the link below to view the extended flyer and schedule of "Christmas in Gloucester" events.
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Holidays in Rockport
November 27 - January 1
The Holidays in Rockport are looking a little different in 2020. Rockport's creative community has taken a few of our festivals and made them month-long experiences maintaining the traditions and adding some new ones for you and yours to have a safe and wonderful holiday season.
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Rockport Music Presents Concert View Virtual Series: Alexa Tarantino Quartet
December 4
Director of the Rockport Jazz Workshop, Alexa Tarantino is an award-winning, vibrant jazz saxophonist, woodwind doubler, composer, and educator.
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Christmas-By-The-Sea: A Wonderful Holiday Tradition In Manchester
December 4 - December 13
Manchester-by-the-Sea has many fun and safe Holiday events coming up next month! From a Holiday Open House at Manchester Historical Museum to a Downtown Holiday Scavenger Hunt, there will be plenty of opportunities to safely celebrate the holidays in Manchester.
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Essex North Shore Agriculture & Technical School Presents Larkin Cottage Virtual Gala
December 18
The gala will benefit the Larkin Memorial Cottage project, currently being rebuilt into a multi-use facility, including a historical museum, service kitchen, office space, an exhibit hall, a learning lab, and function space. *The date of this event has recently changed from December 4 to December 18.
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Backyard Growers is Seeking a Full-Time Program Coordinator
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Forklift Operator Position Available at Americold Logistics is Hiring for a Forklift Operator Position
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Cape Ann Youth Friendly Jobs & Internships
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We would like to extend a big thank you to our supporting sponsors.
If you are interested in promoting with the Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce and sponsoring this newsletter, please contact Ken Riehl at [email protected]
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