Lexi R. Branson is executive director of federation programs and grassroots at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
With thousands of chambers of commerce thriving today, it’s no secret that chambers are an integral part of business communities nationwide. And while the primary purpose of a chamber of commerce is to serve its community and the businesses they represent, often times chambers are in the background, pulling strings and making magic happen without garnering much attention.

That’s why Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day, which takes place on the third Wednesday of every October, is a great time to highlight the work that chambers do every day to promote free enterprise, boost the economy, and celebrate their local communities.

Let’s look at some of the behind-the-scenes work chambers, including their staff and volunteers, do on a regular basis.

Advocating on Behalf of Business
Chambers of commerce are the voice of their local business communities with policymakers and government entities. Whether it’s lobbying for favorable business regulations or advocating for the interests of local small business owners, when it impacts the business community, you an count on your chamber’s involvement.
Promoting Economic Development
From attracting new businesses to their communities to helping existing businesses expand, promoting economic development is a top priority for chambers.
Helping Businesses Thrive
Chambers provide the resources local businesses need to grow and thrive, like networking opportunities to connect with new customers and other businesses.

Serving Communities
Whether it’s promoting tourism or engaging communities in major events, chambers of commerce place bettering their communities at the top of their to-do lists.

Join us in thanking your local chamber of commerce for their work today and every day. Not a member of a chamber? Let’s change that!
Join here

Happy Labor Day Weekend! The unofficial end of summer is upon us. Next week the kids will be back in school, footballs will be flying and it's back to business in the workplace.

But first a day of rest on Labor Day. I did a little research on Labor Day and found a nice history in the Old Farmer's Almanac that I thought I'd share.

"The funny thing about Labor Day is that it’s the one day of the year no one expects to work! We celebrate work by not doing any. But it replicates our week. We labor, and then we rest. On Labor Day, we honor the value of labor by putting it out of our thoughts for an extra-long weekend...

Labor Day is to celebrate you, the American worker! It was envisioned by the founders to honor the American worker, the driving engine behind the most productive economy in the world, and the American work ethic that resulted in one of the highest standards of living in the world. All of this came out of a belief in economic and political democracy. 

Labor Day was the idea of Peter J. Maguire, a labor union leader who, in 1882, proposed a celebration honoring the American worker. Peter Maguire was the general secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners and a co-founder of the American Federation of Labor. The date chosen was simply “convenient.” Peter Maguire suggested that this date would nicely fall “nearly midway between the Fourth of July and Thanksgiving.”

In the U.S., the first Labor Day parade was on Tuesday, September 5, 1882, in New York City. By 1894, 23 more states had adopted the holiday, and on June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making the first Monday in September a legal national holiday every year."

I hope you all have an opportunity to enjoy the weekend. I'm looking forward to a couple of days down the Cape. Which means I'll be sitting in traffic for much of Labor Day, alas.

Tom O'Rourke
President and CEO

The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) is the five-year rolling capital plan for the 97 cities and towns in the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization's (MPO) planning area. The MPO allocates federal transportation funds to these projects based on a variety of criteria. The Chamber represents our region as a member of the MPO.

The recently approved 2024-2028 TIP includes a number of local projects that are or will be completed over the next few years. Here is a summary of the projects in our region that are receiving funding:

Dedham - Improvements along the Bussey Street corridor will include resetting the curb and reconstructing ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps on both sides of the roadway. Minor geometric improvements will make the roadway more pedestrian friendly and shared bicycle accommodations are planned.

Norwood - This project includes traffic signal upgrades at the intersection of Route 1 with University Avenue and Everett Street. Related improvements include constructing an additional travel lane in each direction on Route 1, upgrading of traffic signals, lengthening of left-turn lanes on Route 1, upgrading of pedestrian crossings at each leg of the intersection, and upgrading of bicycle amenities at the intersection.

Norwood - This project involves intersection improvements at two locations on Route 1A through the installation of traffic and pedestrian signals to support vehicle flow and roadway safety. In addition, Washington Street and Upland Road will be widened to accommodate turning lanes and existing sidewalks will be reconstructed to meet ADA/AAB standards with upgraded pavement markings.

Canton - This project will purchase and install bicycle racks in Downtown Canton to provide for additional bicycle parking near MBTA commuter rail facilities.

Canton -This project will install new bicycle racks at three public elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school in Canton.

Walpole - This project which is nearing completion, consists of reconstructing Route 1A from approximately 2,000 feet north of Route 27 north to the Norwood town line and includes improvements to the intersection and approaches at Fisher, Gould, North, Bullard/Willet Streets, and the Stop and Shop Plaza as well as the Route 1A bridge over the Neponset River.

Westwood - This project will reconstruct Canton Street from East Street to University Ave. and install pedestrian and bicycle facilities where none currently exist. A sidewalk will be constructed along the southbound side of the roadway, with a shared-use-path constructed along the northbound side. High visibility crosswalks and beacons will be added at seven locations.

Tom O'Rourke
President and CEO

​So I decided last week to dip my toe into this thing called Artificial Intelligence (AI). It started with Constant Contact, which now has an AI component to translate my boring description of our events into happenings that you simply must attend. Pretty cool.

Then I tried ChatGPT. Super cool! I asked a simple question, "What is a Chamber of Commerce?" I could not have written a more accurate and nuanced answer. You can read it below.

For better or for worse AI is here and it's impact will be felt everywhere. There are certainly many ways in which it can be a helpful business tool. At the Chamber, we are looking forward to bringing in speakers who can address AI for business so that you can learn what to do and maybe more importantly, what not to do. Stay tuned.

Oh, and by the way, when you read below, don't take my word for it. Take ChatGPT's.

Tom O'Rourke, CCE
President and CEO

"A chamber of commerce is an organization that represents and promotes the interests of businesses within a particular geographic area. It acts as a local advocate for the business community, aiming to enhance economic growth and development in the region.

Chambers of commerce are typically formed as nonprofit entities and are governed by a board of directors composed of business leaders and professionals. They can be found at various levels, including local, regional, national, and international.

The primary functions of a chamber of commerce include:

1. Networking and Relationship Building: Chambers provide opportunities for businesses to connect with one another, fostering relationships and collaborations. They often organize networking events, business expos, and trade shows to facilitate interactions among their members.

2. Advocacy and Representation: Chambers serve as the voice of the business community and advocate for policies that promote a favorable business environment. They engage in lobbying efforts, work with government officials, and represent the interests of businesses on issues such as taxation, regulation, and economic development.

3. Business Support and Resources: Chambers offer various resources and support services to their members. This can include business education programs, mentoring, access to business tools and databases, and assistance with navigating government regulations.

4. Promotion and Marketing: Chambers play a role in promoting local businesses and attracting investment to their region. They may engage in marketing campaigns, produce business directories, and participate in tourism initiatives to highlight the advantages of the area for businesses and visitors alike.

5. Community Engagement: Chambers often get involved in community initiatives and events. They collaborate with other organizations, support local charities, and participate in activities that contribute to the overall well-being of the community.

Joining a chamber of commerce can provide businesses with networking opportunities, access to resources, and a platform for influencing local policies. It allows them to be part of a collective effort to strengthen the business environment and contribute to the growth of the community.

​Last week, the Neponset River Regional Chamber along with, NFIB MA, the Retailers Association of Massachusetts and Massachusetts Restaurant association, hosted Massachusetts Small Business Day on Beacon Hill, bringing business owners from around the Commonwealth to Boston to discuss the challenges they face with state officials, business allies, and NFIB policy experts.

Dedham Representative, Paul McMurtry, Chairman of the Joint Committee on Community Development and Small Businesses welcomed attendees followed by legislative updates from Christopher Carlozzi, Jon Hurst of the Retailers Association of Massachusetts, and Stephen Clark of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association. 

Lt. Governor Kim Driscoll then provided a keynote speech on some of the challenges facing the Commonwealth. Driscoll raised Massachusetts’ affordability and competitive issues and steps the Healey Administration is taking to help. 

The program ended with a panel discussion on rising energy expenses and the need to balance the switch to renewable energy with the realities of supply and cost. The panel was made up of Bill Ryan of the Mass Coalition for Sustainable Energy, Blair Hastey of Enbridge Energy, and Bob Rio of RAR Strategies.  

Throughout the day, speakers saluted the activism of small business owners and urged participants to stay focused and engaged as the General Court considers bills that impact their businesses.

In his closing remarks, Chris Carlozzi said, “The voice of small business was heard loud and clear on Beacon Hill. Our members discussed high taxes, overregulation, affordable healthcare, labor mandates, energy costs, and the overriding need of relief for Main Street businesses. Our employer organizations and their members stand ready to work with Governor Healey and lawmakers to improve Massachusetts’ economy and fuel small business job creators.”

Tom O'Rourke, CCE
President and CEO

​As we begin our spring membership promotion, I wanted to share some feedback from one our members, Karen Thompson.
"I am so excited to announce my new brand and website release for In Touch Well Being, LLC. Last year, my business was accepted into a grant program through the Neponset River Regional Chamber of Commerce. The grant allows for brick and mortar businesses to receive assistance for marketing and digital improvements. Having an older site, I was excited to upgrade and look at opportunities for people to learn more about me and my services.
 
Over the past few months, I have been working with my logo designer, Bert Carrison of Carrison Design along with Kerry Aglugub of KMA Web Design and Tricia White of T. White Creations from the grant program. Together, we recreated the logo along with a responsive, SEO driven website and branded marketing materials.
 
As we launch the new website I want to say thank you to Tom O'Rourke from the NRRC for choosing my business to have this amazing marketing upgrade along with Ben, Kerry and Tricia who have brought my brand and digital presence into 2023. I also want to thank Matt McKee Photography for the beautiful headshots. I am so lucky to be part of the Neponset River Regional Chamber because being a member has its benefits."

Karen is one of 14 recipients of this grant funding from the Chamber over the past two years. If that's not a reason to join the Chamber, I don't know what is.

Tom O'Rourke, CCE
President and CEO

​Earlier this week we had the opportunity to hear community updates from 5 area town administrators. Our members got to hear about what's happening in our region from updates on economic development and housing to transportation and other matters of importance to local business.

From my perspective, the program served as a reminder of what makes this region so special. Sometimes when we are focused on our day to day lives, we can miss the bigger picture of what's happening around us. Here are a few of the community assets that were highlighted by our municipal leaders:
The town of Canton has a wonderful new community space in the Paul Revere Heritage Site, which will soon feature a museum of discovery and innovation. The state's first TopGolf facility is currently under construction on Dedham Street and will soon be a major destination in the area.
In Foxborough, Patriot Place continues to grow with ongoing updates to Gillette Stadium. The stadium will host the Army-Navy football game this fall. One of the premier sporting events in the world. Also Station One by Shovel Town Brewery recently opened in a converted former fire station in Foxborough center.
Speaking of breweries, the town of Norwood now has two of them, Castle Island and Irish Brewing Boston. The town is also seeing tremendous growth and investment from Moderna which now occupies the entire site of what was once Polaroid. They are creating hundreds jobs in the process. Norwood is also the new home of the Skating Club of Boston, one of only two Olympic training facilities in the nation.
The town of Sharon is even getting into the act. Construction of the Sharon Gallery, a mixed use development on 90 acres is expected to begin soon. The long awaited project will feature restaurant, retail, office and housing uses along with related infrastructure improvements.
In Walpole, several redevelopment projects have recently been completed or are underway in the downtown district, including transit oriented development near the commuter rail station.

After hearing our town officials talk about all this and more it reminds me of what a great community we live and work in.

To learn more about what's happening in Norwood, be sure to watch Chronicle on WCVB TV Monday night. You may see some people you know.

Tom O'Rourke, CCE
President and CEO

​As the snow falls lightly outside, it's nice to be thinking ahead to spring. We are excited to see our calendar filling up with a host of meaningful programs and events.

We truly have a mix of new and traditional programs on the agenda, but even the traditional have some unique new aspects to them.

First up is our inaugural "March Madness Bracket Challenge". The brainchild of our Young Professional group, we are inviting all members to participate by filling out a bracket for the men's college basketball tournament. If you've ever done it, you know that being a basketball geek is not a requirement. If you've never done it, give it try. We will get together for a Viewing Party at Irish Brewing Boston on March 23 to watch the Sweet 16 round, sip some local brews and talk trash.

On March 28 we are bringing together town administrators from our communities to talk about what's happening in our region. They will share updates on economic development, housing, transportation and other matters of importance to local business. You won't want to miss this.

Next up on April 10 we will gather with folks from 10 other Chambers in Southeastern Mass. to celebrate opening day of horse racing at Plainridge Part Casino. This event draws hundreds of people to enjoy food, drink, networking and maybe a little gambling.

Finally, Restaurant Week returns April 30 through May 4. There will be much more to come on that, but mark your calendar now and make plans to support our local restaurants.

Check out these events here.

Tom O'Rourke, CCE
President and CEO

​One of my favorite movies growing up was Steve Martin's "The Jerk". It's one of those movies I can watch over and over and still laugh out loud. One scene in particular is when the phone book arrives at the gas station where he is working. You can watch it here. (for those under a certain age, a phone book was a printed directory that contained everyone's phone number in a particular region)

While phone books have gone out of fashion, the Chamber continues to publish an annual directory of our members so that you can find other members of the Chamber with whom you can do business. The directory also contains useful information about our communities and the many amenities, places to go and things to do that our region features. We distribute these guides not only to our members, but to local hotels and town halls where they can be shared with residents and visitors.

We also have an e-book version of the directory on our website. You can access the e-book here and in it you can click on ads from our members which feature video's with information on them.

Your printed directory will be arriving in your mail box soon and we hope that you will use it when looking for products and services locally.

​The Boston Region's Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) establishes a vision for the region’s transportation system and guides both capital investments and research studies to support that vision. The current LRTP, Destination 2040, was adopted in 2019. The next LRTP, Destination 2050, will be adopted in 2023.

As our region's representative on the Boston Region Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), I strongly encourage you make your voice heard by completing the survey. It only takes a few minutes.

Why? Because the survey will help shape the LRTP which will inform how federal highway funds are spent in Eastern Mass. All too often these surveys are skewed by special interest groups advocating for priorities which don't necessarily reflect the interests of the entire region. Instead, they focus more on inner city issues at the expense of the needs of the outer suburban communities, i.e. bike lanes, rapid transit, climate resiliency, etc.

While all of those issues are important, we have greater needs in our Chamber region. First and last mile connections to employer locations, which will help employers attract the workforce they need; upgrades along the Route 1 corridor; continuation of the Foxboro/Patriot Place commuter rail pilot program; and most importantly, the reconstruction of the functionally obsolete and dangerous interchange of Routes 93 and 95 in Canton.

Almost every day the communities of Canton, Dedham, Norwood, Walpole, and Westwood see increased commuter traffic spilling off Route 95 onto Route 1, Route 1A and ultimately onto side streets and through neighborhoods, seeking a quicker and more efficient way to their ultimate destinations: jobs in Boston or along the Route 128 corridor. This pass-through traffic chokes local roadways not designed for such use and leads to more care and maintenance than would normally be needed.

Don't miss this opportunity to chime in on the future of transportation in our region.

Tom O'Rourke, CCE
President and CEO