Unleash the Power of The Press

admin

The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield Kicked off the First Day of Summer with The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson

MARSHFIELD, MA …On Thursday, June 20th, 2024, kids and adults at aquatic facilities all around the world united for the 15th year to teach kids vital water safety skills to help prevent childhood drowning. The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL), took place over 24 hours at hundreds of aquatic facilities, swim schools and waterparks in more than 20 countries.
 
The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield served as an official Host Facility for the 2024 WLSL event and provided 164 Camp Swim Lessons and 172 Powers Aquatics Swim Lessons over the course of the day.
 
Water related accidents and drowning risk peak during the month of July in the U.S. as people flock to pools, waterparks and natural bodies of water to beat the heat. Drowning is the leading cause of death for kids ages 1-4 and the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for kids 5-14 according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury-related death world-wide.
 
“We want to equip families with an understanding of the basic swimming skills and water safety knowledge they need to be safer in, on and around the water,” said Jim Bunnell, CEO of Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield. “Knowing how to swim and prevent drowning is truly a matter of life and death for all families, regardless of race, economics or geography.”
 
Bunnell continued, “It’s imperative that every family member learns how to swim and learns about water safety. We provide swim and water safety skills programming at the Club’s outdoor pool during the summer to families throughout the South Shore.”
 
Water Safety Programming at the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield
The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield partners with well-known swim and water safety entity Powers Aquatics. Powers Aquatics is the South Shore’s premier provider of swim and water safety programs and operates and manages water safety lessons at the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield. Swim programs are led by Certified Instructors and include Adaptive, PAST, Little Crushers, Community, Water Polo, Masters as well as Adult Lessons. The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield received a grant from the Michael Phelps Foundation (and their signature IM Program) and implemented a water safety program.
 
About: The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson was created to raise awareness about the importance of teaching children to swim to prevent childhood drowning. Since its inception, more than 383,000 children and adults have participated in WLSL Lessons in 53 countries on six continents generating billions of media impressions about the importance of learning to swim. For more information, visit WLSL.org.
 
About the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield
The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield’s mission is to ensure that every child has mentors and champions in life. The Club provides programming opportunities in the Boys & Girls Club of America’s (BGCA) five core areas including leadership, education, health, arts, and fitness.  The Club serves families with children ranging in age from 5 to 18 years old, and provides critical services the community needs to support children and families over the short- and long-term. For more information, visit their website bgcmarshfield.org or call 781-834-2582.

The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield swim program in action.

The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield Kicked off the First Day of Summer with The World’s Largest Swimming LessonRead More

Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café Recognizes Staff Milestone

GLASTONBURY, SOUTH WINDSOR, UNION, CT… Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café, the unique bagel shop and bakery café with five locations in Connecticut, recently celebrated a significant staff milestone.

Sharon MacDonald, Manager at Between Rounds’ South Windsor location, has been recognized for 20 years of service.

(L to R) Shown: Between Rounds co-founder Joseph Puiia; Sharon MacDonald, manager of Between Rounds South Windsor; co-founder Jerry Puiia and his wife, Laurie Puiia

In 2003, MacDonald joined the Between Rounds Manchester location as a Baker after previously working for a corporation with hundreds of stores nationwide. Within a year, she was appointed as Manager of Between Rounds’ South Windsor location. MacDonald is well-versed in every aspect of the café, overseeing operations and staff, hiring, customer service, and even stepping in as a baker when needed. 

“Working in the food service industry has been very good. I enjoy the customers and staff and really believe in Between Rounds’ products,” said MacDonald. 

The family-owned Between Rounds has been in business for more than three decades and is the brainchild of brothers Jerry and Joseph Puiia, who are Staten Island, NY natives. The Puiia hallmark is manufacturing and selling their own bagels, which sets them apart from other cafés.

According to MacDonald, “I would rather work for a family-owned business such as Between Rounds. They’ve outlasted many businesses. Thirty-two years they’ve been going strong.”

“Sharon’s dedication, integrity and positive attitude really set her apart and we’ve been very fortunate to have her as part of our team,” said co-founder Joseph Puiia.

“Sharon is an outstanding manager and leader who has played a significant role in the overall success of Between Rounds South Windsor. It’s our great pleasure to recognize and honor Sharon,” said Jerry Puiia, co-founder.

The Puiia’s presented MacDonald with an engraved clock in recognition of 20 years of dedication and service.

A native of Union, MacDonald resides in Glastonbury, CT.

About Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café
Founded in 1990, Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café is a unique bakery café and bagel shop renowned for their fresh, baked-onsite bagels and baked goods as well sandwiches, wraps, salads, soups, specialty coffees and a unique line of giftware. Between Rounds offers patrons an upscale, fast-casual dining experience.

Between Rounds locations include East Windsor, South Windsor, Vernon, Manchester and Tolland, CT. Franchise and wholesale opportunities are available. Corporate headquarters are located at 19A John Fitch Blvd, Route 5 in South Windsor, CT. For more information about their unique franchise offerings, contact (860) 291-0323 or visit https://betweenroundsbagels.com

Between Rounds Bakery Sandwich Café Recognizes Staff MilestoneRead More

College Admissions 101 Workshop at Dighton Public Library on July 25

Attorney Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore

DIGHTON AND RAYNHAM, MA… A College Admissions 101 Workshop will be held July 25, 2024 from 6:30-7:30 PM at Dighton Public Library in the Old Town Hall location, 1111 Somerset Avenue, Dighton, MA 02715. There is no cost to attend.
 
The free College Admissions 101 Workshop will be led by Attorney Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore, founder of Personal College Counseling, Inc. (PCCI) of Raynham, MA.
 
The workshop is geared towards high school Freshmen, Sophomores and Juniors and their families. Attorney DaSilva-Kilgore offers helpful insight and will cover topics including:
 
– An overview of the planning involved in the college application process
– Choosing a college/university that is a good match for the student’s interests, lifestyle and budget
– Getting the best financial package and maximizing merit scholarship dollars 
 
Attorney DaSilva-Kilgore helps focus effort on colleges that academically, socially and financially are most appropriate, which puts the student in the best position to succeed in school itself as well as beyond in their career. 
 
Seating is limited. To register for this event, visit:  https://conta.cc/3xl6hjw
 
High school students and parents/guardians who are unable to attend the workshop may arrange for a complimentary consultation by emailing nod@personalcollegecounseling.com.
 
About PCCI
Founded by Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore, Esq. who has been practicing law for over 30 years, Personal College Counseling, Inc. (PCCI) provides high school students (and parents/guardians) with one-on-one guidance throughout the entire college preparation process. Virtual services as well as in-person services are available. PCCI is based in Raynham, MA. For more information or to arrange for a complimentary Parent/Student Personal College Consultation, contact (508) 622-5250, email nod@personalcollegecounseling.com or visit the website at personalcollegecounseling.com

College Admissions 101 Workshop at Dighton Public Library on July 25Read More

Due to Heat Advisory -“March Against Elder Abuse” event in Plymouth Rescheduled to June 27

PLYMOUTH, MA…Due to the heat advisory this week, the Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) “March Against Elder Abuse” event in Plymouth has been rescheduled to Thursday, June 27, 2024 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
 
The “March Against Elder Abuse” event is part of OCES’ World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) campaign.
 
OCES in partnership with the Plymouth Center for Active Living, Plymouth County District Attorney and the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department will hold this FREE one-mile March along the Plymouth waterfront to raise awareness of elder abuse. 
 
Please gather for the March at 10:30 a.m. outside Tavern on the Wharf, 6 Town Wharf, Plymouth. The March will begin at 11 a.m. proceeding down Water Street then back to Tavern on the Wharf for a light lunch. Off-street metered parking is available. To register, please call Terri Kourtz, 508-584-1561 ext. 255 or register online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/v39ytqy
 
“Every year an estimated 1 in 10 older adults experience elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation according to the National Council on Aging,” said Teresa Kourtz, LSW, MSG, OCES’ Protective Services Director. “Elder abuse is known as a ‘silent problem’ which is why raising awareness of elder abuse and its signs are so important. We encourage the community to join us at these events to increase awareness and help to end elder abuse.” 

Recognizing Elder Abuse
Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, neglect, self-neglect, financial exploitation, and sexual abuse. According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, 40,127 elder abuse reports were received during Fiscal Year 2023. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living stated that an estimated five million older adults are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation every year. One in 10 adults aged 60 and older have experienced some form of elder abuse. Common risk factors for elder abuse are social isolation, poor physical health, and dementia. Nationally, at least $36.5 billion annually is lost by victims of financial abuse according to the National Council on Aging.
 
OCES’ Protective Services Program staff works with older adults, or their designees, to prevent, eliminate, or remedy situations involving elder abuse. When a report is made to the Centralized Intake Unit (Elder Abuse Hotline) and the elder resides in our catchment area, OCES will receive the report and determine if further investigation by a Protective Services Worker is necessary.
 
If you have concerns, please contact your local Protective Services Agency. If you want to file a report on elder abuse, please contact the Centralized Intake Unit (Elder Abuse Hotline) at 1-800-922-2275.
 
To learn more about WEAAD, please visit https://eldermistreatment.usc.edu/weaad-home/
 
About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

Due to Heat Advisory -“March Against Elder Abuse” event in Plymouth Rescheduled to June 27Read More

Contemporary Dermatology Opens New Office in Pinehills, Plymouth

BARNSTABLE AND PLYMOUTH, MA… More than 50 were in attendance at Contemporary Dermatology’s Ribbon Cutting ceremony and Open House held June 5, 2024, at their new Pinehills location at 8 Market Crossing in Plymouth MA. 
 
Amy Naples, Executive Director of the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce, Scott Hokanson, President of the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerce and Dr. Robert Nossa, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Contemporary Dermatology addressed attendees during the ribbon cutting ceremony.
 
Chamber of Commerce members, business neighbors, patients and community members were able to meet the practice’s board-certified dermatologists, Mohs Micrographic surgeons, board-certified dermatology nurse practitioner, physician’s assistant, registered nurse and medical assistants and learn more about the practice. 
 
The state-of-the-art Pinehills office is the second location for Contemporary Dermatology, offering comprehensive services that include medical dermatology, skin cancer treatments, Mohs surgery, aesthetic services and clinical research. 
 
“We had a wonderful turnout at our Ribbon Cutting and Open House,” said Dr. Nossa. “We’re delighted be a part of the vibrant Pinehills community and to provide comprehensive skin care to patients in Plymouth and beyond.”
 
Contemporary Dermatology’s new space features a relaxing water fountain in an expansive waiting room, five exam rooms, a laboratory and more. 
 
Next day appointments are available at the Pinehills location and there is plenty of dedicated parking next to the office.
 
For more information, visit www.contemporarydermatology.com or call (508) 224-3800.
 
About Contemporary Dermatology
Contemporary Dermatology is a leading provider of comprehensive dermatology services, including medical dermatology, skin cancer treatments and Mohs surgery, aesthetic services and clinical research. Their modern practice is home to the latest technologies that allow their highly trained professionals to focus on treating a wide array of medical skin conditions and cosmetic concerns. The practice’s aesthetic services focus on creating natural-looking results through cutting-edge cosmetic treatments such as such as dermal fillers, BOTOX®, XEOMIN® and more. Innovative laser treatments offered include laser tattoo removal and skin resurfacing.
 
Contemporary Dermatology’s state-of-the-art facilities in the Pinehills and in Marstons Mills serve greater Plymouth, Cape Cod and the Islands. Next day appointments are available in the Pinehills office. For more information, visit www.contemporarydermatology.com or call the Plymouth office 508-224-3800 or Marstons Mills office 508-492-3200.

Contemporary Dermatology Opens New Office in Pinehills, PlymouthRead More

Learn and Lean in. Free B-B Networking Tips and Session at Plymouth Area Chamber.

Want to network with the best of them? 

This event provides a brief 15-minute outline of “Business to Business Networking Best Practices” followed by 60 minutes of Open Networking session to practice your new skills. The live, in-person event is a great opportunity to learn a few networking nuggets and then meet new people.

The entire business community is welcome to participate in this free event. The complimentary B-B networking training and open session is set for Tuesday, June 25, 9:15-10:30 a.m. and will be held at the Plymouth Area Chamber of Commerceofficeslocated at 100 Armstrong Road, Suite 204, Plymouth MA 02360.

Ample free parking is available. Light refreshments will be served.

Other than death, what many professionals fear most is “networking” and meeting new people. This complimentary session kicks off with 15 minutes of how to “engage” with someone at a networking event and then how to “disengage” and move on.

The networking ninjas for the session are networkers from birth including Mike Dwyer of Emplana Career, helping professionals expand their horizons, and Steve Dubin of PR Works and founder of My Pinnacle Network, a series of business-to-business networking groups.

Please RSVP to https://rb.gy/mhipul. For more information, contact Steven V. Dubin, SDubin@PRWorkZone.com, (781) 582-1061.

Learn and Lean in. Free B-B Networking Tips and Session at Plymouth Area Chamber.Read More

OCES Celebrates 50-Year Milestone and Program Growth

(Left to right) Representative Mathew Muratore; Representative Kathleen LaNatra; Nicole Long CEO of OCES; Legislative Aide James F. Breton from Office of Senator Michael Brady.
Photo credit: Denise Maccaferri Photography

BRIDGEWATER, BROCKTON, CARVER, DARTMOUTH, EASTON, HANSON, KINGSTON, PLYMOUTH AND SCITUATE, MA… More than 145 supporters gathered at Hotel 1620 Plymouth Harbor in Plymouth, MA to celebrate Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) 50th anniversary milestone, followed by “50 Years of Care and Collaboration” luncheon and awards ceremony.

A nonprofit organization with offices in Brockton and Plymouth, OCES is the largest provider of in-home and community-based services for older adults and people living with disabilities in Southeastern Massachusetts.

Attendees included legislators, civic and business leaders, vendors, partner organizations, donors, and health care professionals. The event featured Life Is Good Playmaker Project creator Steve Gross as guest speaker, and 95.9 WATD Radio host Rob Hakala as emcee.

In recognition of OCES’ 50th Anniversary, official citations were given by the following: Representative Mathew J. Muratore; and Representative Kathleen R. LaNatra; Michael Jackman, Office of Congressman William R. Keating. Legislative Aide James F. Breton presented the citation for the senate office for Senator Michael Brady; Senator Susan L. Moran; Senator Walter F. Timilty.

Awards for Care and Collaboration
OCES presented “Excellence in Care” awards to individuals and organizations whose actions and/or leadership exemplified Care. The two individual awardees were Leah Guercio, a resident of Hanson, who created Leah’s Club for people with dementia-related illnesses to participate in programs focused on attendees’ abilities so they can be involved and feel productive; and Jim Forand of Carver, who pedaled his bicycle alone across the country to raise more than $18,000 for Veterans’ services. The organizational awardee was My Brother’s Keeper based in Easton and Dartmouth. Erich Miller and Paul Key accepted the award for this organization that has helped many thousands of people with food, furniture, and the assurance that they would be cared for in times of need.

(Left to right) Maryjane Danahy for Alley Kat Lane; Paul Key and Erich Miller for My Brother’s Keeper; David Tourtillott; Jim Forand; Kathy Hayes; and Nicole Long, CEO of OCES.
Photo credit: Denise Maccaferri Photography

OCES presented “Excellence in Collaboration” awards to those whose actions and/or leadership exemplified Collaboration. Two individuals received OCES’ Award: David Tourtillott of Scituate, a Certified Reverse Mortgage Professional who offers workshops to provide older adults with options on whether or not to stay in their homes; and Kathy Hayes of Bridgewater, an Outreach Coordinator and Facilitator of caregiver support groups. The organizational recipient was Alley Kat Lane located in Kingston. Maryjane Danahy accepted the award on behalf of this inclusive organization that supports the independence and dignity of older adults and is a place where individuals with special needs can participate in an activity that encourages teamwork and promotes healthy, safe living.

Behavioral Health Program Expansion 
OCES’ 50th Anniversary Luncheon highlighted the organization’s campaign to raise $50,000 to expand its Behavioral Health and Wellness programs. OCES’ Elder Mental Health Outreach Team (EMHOT) provides behavioral health and wellness support to older adults and people with disabilities who may be isolated or encounter barriers that limit access to behavioral health care. To date, $48,000 has been raised and fundraising will continue through June 30, 2024.

“OCES serves thousands of older adults, people living with disabilities, caregivers, and families each year,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “We’re incredibly grateful to all the individuals and organizations that support OCES, ensuring that we continue our vital mission and create better futures for those we serve and communities at large. Our 50th Anniversary event celebrates a new chapter of growth for OCES, beginning with the expansion of our Behavioral Health and Wellness programs.”

OCES extends its thanks to their generous sponsors: MountainOne; Datalyst, LLC; Nutter; The OCPC Ombudsman Program; Best of Care; Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts; Anodyne; Attentive Home Care, Inc.; Home Health Resources, Inc.; Citrin Cooperman; Brown & Brown of Massachusetts, LLC; ; Law Office of Paula Schlosser; and S&M Transportation.  Stonewell Care, LLC; Rockland Trust; Diman Laundry; iSolved MP; South Coast Laundry, Inc.; Old Colony Planning Council (OCPC) and a special thanks to Craig and Diana DiGiorgi as OCES’ 50th Matching Anniversary Sponsor. 

OCES Milestones
Founded in 1974, OCES continues to grow and evolve. Currently OCES has 243 full-time and 26 part-time employees, and a 23-member Board of Directors. Their leadership team includes Nicole Long, Chief Executive Officer; Anna Dee, Chief Operating Officer; Alisa DeLage, Chief Programs Officer; Rob Buckel-Gillis, Human Resources Director; and Yolanda America, Finance Director.

There have been many milestones over the years including creation of The Greater Brockton Area Hoarding Resource Network (GBAH); establishment of the first Supportive Housing Program in Brockton in 2008 and formalization of an Internship Program with Bridgewater State University – all of which continue today. In 2013, the first annual Elder Abuse Awareness event was held in Brockton. In the years that followed, Healthy Living Workshops, Buried in Treasures Workshops, Caregiver Support, and other programs have been established. OCES opened a second office at 204 South Meadow Road in Plymouth featuring a dedicated Volunteer Center for volunteer recruitment for OCES as well as for other nonprofits, schools, and agencies in Southeastern MA. In 2023, OCES expanded their Behavioral Health services with an Elder Mental Health Outreach Team (EMHOT).

According to CEO Nicole Long, “OCES is at the forefront – providing essential services, creating awareness of critical issues, and serving as an important resource for older adults, people with disabilities, families, caregivers, and the larger community. We are dedicated to, and passionate about, helping others and improving lives.”

About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.
 

OCES Celebrates 50-Year Milestone and Program GrowthRead More

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15th. “March Against Elder Abuse” events to be held in Brockton and Plymouth

BROCKTON AND PLYMOUTH, MA… World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is June 15th. To recognize this, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) has launched a WEAAD campaign including events in both Brockton and Plymouth.
 
OCES encourages organizations and the public to join the “March Against Elder Abuse” events:
 
In Brockton on Thursday, June 13, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. OCES in partnership with the Brockton Council on Aging (COA), Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department and Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office will hold a FREE March to increase awareness of elder abuse. Registration will be at 10:30 a.m. and the short March will begin at 11 a.m. at the COA, 1 Feinberg Way, Brockton, then proceed around Belmont Street and back. Lunch will follow at the Shaw’s Center. Registration is required. To register, please call the Brockton COA at 508-580-7811 or register online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/pksmemn
 
In Plymouth on Thursday, June 20, 2024, from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. OCES in partnership with the Plymouth Center for Active Living, Plymouth County District Attorney and the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department will hold a FREE one-mile March along the Plymouth waterfront to raise awareness of elder abuse. Please gather for the March at 10:30 a.m. outside Tavern on the Wharf, 6 Town Wharf, Plymouth. The March will begin at 11 a.m. proceeding down Water Street then back to Tavern on the Wharf for a light lunch. Off-street metered parking is available. To register, please call Terri Kourtz, 508-584-1561 ext. 255 or register online at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/v39ytqy
 
“Every year an estimated 1 in 10 older adults experience elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation according to the National Council on Aging,” said Teresa Kourtz, LSW, MSG, OCES’ Protective Services Director. “Elder abuse is known as a ‘silent problem’ which is why raising awareness of elder abuse and its signs are so important. We encourage the community to join us at these events to increase awareness and help to end elder abuse.” 

Recognizing Elder Abuse
Elder abuse includes physical, emotional, neglect, self-neglect, financial exploitation, and sexual abuse. According to the Massachusetts Executive Office of Elder Affairs, 40,127 elder abuse reports were received during Fiscal Year 2023. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living stated that an estimated five million older adults are victims of elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation every year. One in 10 adults aged 60 and older have experienced some form of elder abuse. Common risk factors for elder abuse are social isolation, poor physical health, and dementia. Nationally, at least $36.5 billion annually is lost by victims of financial abuse according to the National Council on Aging.
 
OCES’ Protective Services Program staff works with older adults, or their designees, to prevent, eliminate, or remedy situations involving elder abuse. When a report is made to the Centralized Intake Unit (Elder Abuse Hotline) and the elder resides in our catchment area, OCES will receive the report and determine if further investigation by a Protective Services Worker is necessary.
 
If you have concerns, please contact your local Protective Services Agency. If you want to file a report on elder abuse, please contact the Centralized Intake Unit (Elder Abuse Hotline) at 1-800-922-2275.
 
To learn more about WEAAD, please visit https://eldermistreatment.usc.edu/weaad-home/
 
About OCES
Celebrating 50 Years of Care and Collaboration and recognized as one of the 2023 Best Places to Work by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, OCES is a private, nonprofit organization with locations in Brockton and Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 23 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and proudly serves Plymouth County and surrounding communities. Through the talent of an experienced and diverse workforce, OCES supports the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy, safe living which positively impacts our community. The agency offers several programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org.

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is June 15th. “March Against Elder Abuse” events to be held in Brockton and PlymouthRead More

Flower Empower – Winds of Change in the Floral Industry. “Conversion Division” launched by French Florist.

Sowing a seed, French Florist has launched a new “Conversion Division” to help independent florist shop owners achieve bumper growth. The Los Angeles, CA-based franchise organization offers transformative and proprietary technology, increased order volume and supply chain enhancement that dramatically change the customer experience and store profit.

French Florist is in the process of identifying and awarding an exclusive opportunity to the top performing independent florists in key cities.

Independent florists have been at the mercy of third-party aggregators like BloomNation, FloraNext, Dove/Teleflora, 1-800-Flowers, FTD and FSN who gobbled up most of the Internet and general advertising traffic and then took up to 40% of the gross sale.  French Florist’s Conversion Division is reducing that to 6% or even less.

CASH CROP

French Florist’s flagship store in Los Angeles is projecting an astounding $10 million in revenue for 2024. To put this into perspective, the average local florist shop, after years of toil, might see annual revenues of $300k-$500k. French Florist has shattered these benchmarks, performing over 20 times the industry average for a single location. French Florist stores operate much more efficiently, in large part because of the proprietary technologies they have developed.

HARVESTING SUPPLY CHAIN DISCOUNTS

The company also offers better buying power with direct purchases from major farms in Ecuador, Holland, Columbia, Mexico, Canada, United States, and more.  For example, French Florist stores have access to premium imports like red roses for as low as $13 per bunch, even in peak seasons, ensuring unparalleled value without overpaying. This direct buying power not only provides top-tier products but also can significantly boost margins, especially when integrated with the company’s advanced inventory management system.

Beyond florals and greens, benefit from exceptional rates on supplies with rates inaccessible for small florists—from elegantly etched 5×5 cubes at just $2.31 each to peak-quality branded ribbons and wrapping paper, at prices aimed at increasing profitability. These supplies aren’t just materials; they enhance artistic expression, allowing superior products at better prices.

FERTILE MARKETING

Marketing is critical to customer acquisition and growth. French Florist does the “heavy lifting” of marketing analysis and execution.

In the competitive digital landscape, standing out is essential. The SEO approach is designed to push French Florist locations past boutique sites like BloomNation and FloraNext.  Existing French Florist locations even push past giants such as Teleflora, 1-800-Flowers, and FTD to rank #1 in many local search keywords.

Award-winning advertising and marketing help attract three channels of customers – consumer retail sales, E-commerce sales and corporate accounts.

TRAINING FOR MAXIMUM YIELD

French Florist University includes 300 interactive and highly engaging video training modules to distill decades of veteran experience and provide insights for all members of the florist shop team – from the floral designer to the driver to the manager and more.

“The floral industry is at a crossroads, and French Florist stands on the front lines, ready to lead the charge,” notes Michael Jacobson, CEO of French Florist, second generation in the floral business. He added, “We’ve not only proved it’s possible to defy the giants; we’ve set a new standard of what success looks like. This is more than a business model; it’s a movement.”

Jacobson concluded, “”Flowers are the music of nature.  French Florist is the melody.”

For more information, contact French Florist at https://frenchfloristfranchise.com/ or call (310) 659-7700. Or, visit the consumer website at https://frenchflorist.com.

Flower Empower – Winds of Change in the Floral Industry. “Conversion Division” launched by French Florist.Read More