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Old Colony Elder Services Hosts Annual Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Ceremony

BROCKTON, DUXBURY, EASTON, HALIFAX, HANOVER, KINGSTON, MIDDLEBORO, AND PLYMOUTH, MA…More than 150 volunteers recently attended Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) Annual Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Ceremony held at Indian Pond Country Club in Kingston. Eight volunteers received special awards.

OCES, the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County, honored their volunteers, who generously donate their time to help others, with a Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon.

Volunteers: Bill Raymond of Middleboro, G. Mike Pauley of Brockton,
John Durnan of Duxbury

Armindo Rocha, Volunteer Programs Manager and Cidalia America, Volunteer Program Assistant hosted the event and presented President’s Volunteer Service – Lifetime Achievement and Annual Gold awards along with OCES’ Make A Difference awards to the eight volunteers.

OCES is a National President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) Certifying Organization. The PVSA honors outstanding volunteers and recognizes the impact they make. The PVSA’s highest honor, the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing 4000+ volunteer hours in a lifetime, was presented to two volunteers. Joseph Tyler Jr., a resident of Halifax, MA, has impacted others with his smile and sense of humor for many years as a volunteer; and Bill Raymond, a resident of Middleboro, MA, who volunteers by transporting seniors to their medical appointments regardless of location and will volunteer 8 hours a day driving if needed. 

The PVSA’s Annual Gold Award, marking 500+ volunteer hours for the year, was presented to four volunteers: Steve Sundell of Easton, MA, a SHINE Counselor for 12 years; Fred Ciliberto of Hanover, MA, a volunteer for many years at the Hanover COA; Walter Hempel of Duxbury, MA, a long-time volunteer of both the Duxbury COA as well as the Project Gurnet & Bug Lights, Inc.; and John Ruthkowski of Duxbury, MA who has been involved with AARP tax preparation for several years, devoting well over 700 hours each year to the Kingston and Duxbury COAs to prepare taxes for more than 250 clients. 

The Make a Difference Award is given by OCES and the RSVP-PC to recognize exceptional volunteers for their dedication to helping others making a big impact on the community. This award was presented to: John Durnan of Duxbury who has been traveling to Brockton to deliver meals since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020; and G. Mike Pauley of Brockton who is a longtime volunteer at the Caffrey Towers and Campello High Rise buildings in Brockton and was instrumental in delivering meals during the pandemic.

“We truly appreciate all of our volunteers for their dedication to helping others, assisting those in need in our communities, and making the world a better place,” said Armindo Rocha, OCES’ Volunteer Manager.

More about the PVSA
In 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to take action too. Led by AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, this program allows Certifying Organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers.

As an AmeriCorps Seniors grantee, OCES receives funds through the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) for volunteers age 55+. RSVP of Plymouth County (RSVP-PC) volunteers help OCES and other local agencies that are OCES Community Service Partners. 

Volunteering for OCES
Our Volunteer Program supports OCES and other Community Service Partners. With the help of Nutrition Program volunteers, OCES serves 1,800 meals each weekday as part of its MOW Program. Money Management Program (MMP) volunteers assist older adults and individuals with disabilities with bill paying, reconciling bank statements, balancing checkbooks, and in special cases, negotiating debt with creditors. Volunteers also serve on the OCES Board of Directors, MMP and RSVP Community Advisory councils and contribute with many other important efforts.

To learn more about becoming an OCES volunteer contact Armindo Rocha at 508-584-1561 x355 or visit ocesma.org.

About OCES
Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 24 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org. 

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Lakefront Living International, LLC Adds New Hampshire to its Family of Lakefront Property Partners

MEREDITH, NH… New Hampshire is home to nearly 1,000 lakes and they are some of the cleanest and healthiest in the country. The lakes are a major attraction for visitors and residents. Popular lake activities include swimming, boating, and fishing. Since lakes in New Hampshire typically freeze during the winter, activities also include ice-fishing, ice-skating, and cross-country skiing.

Glenn and Angela Smith of Lakefront Living Realty – The Smith Group

Lakefront Living International, LLC has announced that the entire state of New Hampshire is being franchised by NH Broker, Glenn Smith and his wife, Angela Smith, also a Realtor. Their company, now known as Lakefront Living Realty – The Smith Group, is based in Meredith, NH.
 
“There are 273 lakes and ponds in the NH Lakes Region alone,” said Scott Freerksen, CEO of Lakefront Living International, “We’re honored to have Glenn and Angela’s passion for the lakes represented in this area.”

Although born and raised in Massachusetts, Glenn Smith thought of New Hampshire’s Lakes Region as “home.” He came to the Center Harbor area as a child where his family acted as caretakers of the Arbor Cabins. Every year, the day after school got out for summer break, the family packed up and came north to enjoy long fun filled days at “the lake.” Those memories stayed with him throughout his real estate career.

“Being an avid boater and fisherman has allowed me to develop a great respect and knowledge of the lakes and surrounding towns,” said Glenn Smith, now Broker of Lakefront Living Realty – The Smith Group, “It’s been a real pleasure introducing hundreds of clients to this beautiful area.”

Lake Winnipesaukee is the largest lake in the state at 72 square miles and is located at the foothills of the White Mountains. It contains more than 200 miles of shoreline and 274 habitable islands.

Newfound Lake, which some say is among the cleanest in the world, is 4,106 acres in size and is considered one of the deepest lakes in New Hampshire (183-feet deep at one point). This pristine lake is about two and a half miles wide and seven miles in length.

“Squam Lake, the film site for ‘On Golden Pond,’ is known as one of the most peaceful and pristine in the country and offers visitors plenty of opportunity to enjoy its natural beauty,” said Angela Smith, Partner of Lakefront Living Realty – The Smith Group. “Big and Little Squam lakes are naturally spring fed and connected by a channel in Holderness. Big Squam is six miles long, four miles wide and 98 feet deep.”

Lakefront property prices in New Hampshire are as diverse as the properties themselves. Buyers can find land for sale on smaller lakes for $150,000, and mansions on Lake Winnipesaukee for up to $10,000,000.

The team at Lakefront Living Realty – The Smith Group can also connect NH lake home buyers with HGTV’s popular Lakefront Bargain Hunt show, now in its eighth year of production.

“The lakes and homes of New Hampshire are already populated on our website LakefrontLiving.com,” said Christine Mosier, COO of Lakefront Living International, “We’re thrilled to have Glenn and Angela represent Lakefront Living Realty as we continue to grow and offer the most passionate specialists in the country.”

LakefrontLiving.com displays all the homes for sale on the lakes it covers, not just the listings of any particular Broker, making it a one-stop shop for interested buyers. And unlike many real estate syndication sites on the web today, the site is always 100 percent accurate. In addition, the site provides the important details of the lakes themselves, ensuring buyers make informed and educated decisions.

Interested buyers and sellers can learn more about New Hampshire lakes and homes by contacting Glenn or Angela Smith of Lakefront Living Realty – The Smith Group at 603-233-7226.
 
About Lakefront Living International, LLC
Founded in 2014, Lakefront Living International, LLC is a national real estate franchise company focused exclusively on the buying and selling of lakefront properties. As the only lake-focused real estate franchise in the United States, the company is dedicated to providing their unique business model to agents who share their passion for the lakefront lifestyle. Lakefront Living International, LLC’s proven systems use the power of niche marketing and client lifecycle principles to provide a true competitive advantage. One thing that sets the brand apart from other big-box real estate franchises and independent brokers alike is the freedom it grants franchisees in relation to territory size. The company has an ambitious expansion plan and is focused on attracting future partners.
 
The LakefrontLiving.com brand is a frequent Partner of HGTV Lakefront Bargain Hunt. They have also sourced locations for a hit movie and were featured on WCVB-TV (ABC) Channel 5 Boston Chronicle.
 
Real estate agents may learn more about Lakefront Living International franchise opportunities by visiting www.lakefrontfranchise.com. Buyers and sellers of lakefront and lake community properties may learn more about Lakefront Living by visiting www.lakefrontliving.com

Lakefront Living International, LLC Adds New Hampshire to its Family of Lakefront Property PartnersRead More

Old Colony Elder Services Appoints New ASAP Programs Director

BROCKTON, PLYMOUTH AND WHITMAN, MA… Old Colony Elder Services (OCES), the non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout Plymouth County and surrounding towns, has appointed Jodie McDonald as Aging Services Access Point (ASAP) Programs Director.

In her new role, McDonald will oversee management of Home Care, Information and Referral, and Nursing departments. This includes assisting with procedural and policy implementation along with changes for departments based on EOEA contracts and regulations and collaborating with department management to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of service delivery. She will also facilitate trainings and assist with quality assurance and compliance. 

Jodie McDonald

Previously, McDonald served as an Adult Family Care Manager at Cardinal Cushing Centers in Pembroke, MA where she conducted home visits with developmentally disabled individuals and their caregivers. For two years prior to that, McDonald was the Assistant Director of Home Care and Medicare at South Shore Elder Services (SSES) in Braintree, MA where she supervised Home Care and Medicaid case managers and supervisors, assisted with compliance and quality measures, and oversaw SSES’ ANCHOR Program.

McDonald received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Framingham State University and a Master of Public Administration from Bridgewater State University. She is a member of PSI CHI, the International Honor Society in Psychology.

She is a resident of Whitman, MA.

About OCES
Founded in 1974, OCES proudly serves greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 24 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of programs to serve older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For more information call 508-584-1561 or visit www.ocesma.org. 


 

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“Higher Ed” Pop-Up Series Launched by Green Goddess Supply

— Complimentary Cannabis Educational Workshops
Offered to Dispensaries Throughout Southern New England —

DATELINE: HOPEDALE, MA

What is the best cannabis strain for a chill-out at the end of the day, or to achieve a certain effect? What’s a “terpene”? How do I infuse my favorite recipes at home? How do I better understand a cannabinoid test to know what to expect? How, exactly, are dabs and how do you do them? Heck, how do you roll a perfect joint? There are so many aspects to consumption alone that it can feel like falling down the rabbit hole.

These and many other commonly asked questions about cannabis will be addressed by the newly launched and complimentary “Higher Ed” Pop-Up educational programming series offered by Green Goddess Supply, a Hopedale, MA-based“cultivation to consumption” cannabis lifestyle brand offering a line of high-quality products to grow, store, prep and consume hemp flower and cannabis products.  The Pop-Up programming is being offered on a complimentary basis to cannabis dispensaries throughout southern New England (others may inquire, but it may not be practical to visit based upon distance).

“We’ve done a few of these already in a pilot program, and they’ve been very well received,” noted Eric Robichaud, founder of Green Goddess Supply. “In fact, we’ve been requested back more than once already, and we are only just launching this new initiative!” 

The company is excited about offering objective and vetted educational programming for both cannabis dispensary customers and staff. Green Goddess Supply has certified experts who have a number of prepared cannabis educational programs covering a variety of topics. Besides being educational, the company makes the sessions fun and interactive, presented in a casual and inviting manner to make consumers feel both comfortable and engaged.

“We typically book a 4-hour spot on-site to put on a show during retail hours. Additionally, we are happy to consider going outside the box, so to speak, to address other specific topics of interest to dispensary leaders, if its within our wheelhouse.  We aren’t restricted to our pre-set list of topics,” said Robichaud.

In addition to cannabis supplies, Green Goddess Supply produces an award-winning home grow system called “The Armoire” which is designed to look like furniture and meld nicely into any home décor.  Most Armoire owners are first-time growers looking for a small, simple system that “just works,” and comes with hand-holding Concierge Support services. Green Goddess Supply invented The Armoire personal home grow system to empower anybody to grow their own high quality, clean, organic bud at home quickly, easily, discreetly and inexpensively.

About Green Goddess Supply

Green Goddess Supply sells direct to consumers at MSRP through its website, and also offers wholesale and distributor accounts to brick and mortar storefronts and industry distributors. Green Goddess Supply strives to exceed expectations and delight customers with quality products and amazing customer service.

The Armoire, a turnkey home grow system that even your most judgmental aunt won’t detect, is patented by and a trademark of Green Goddess Supply. Green Goddess Supply is a privately held company headquartered in Boston, MA with additional distributions centers in Los Angeles, CA; Long Island City, New York and Pooler, Georgia.

For more information about Green Goddess Supply and the complimentary “Higher Ed” Pop-Up program, Contact Eric Robichaud, eric@GreenGoddessSupply.com, (617) 765-2334 x100, or visit https://www.GreenGoddessSupply.com. 

“<strong>Higher Ed” Pop-Up Series Launched by Green Goddess Supply</strong>Read More

OCES and Staff Honored with Community Awards

BROCKTON, PLYMOUTH AND WEYMOUTH, MA… In a virtual Awards Ceremony held on June 8, 2022, Community Services of Greater Brockton honored Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) with the “COVID-19 Agency Hero Award” and OCES staff member Jordan Stocker, a South Weymouth resident, with the “Excellence In Human Services Award”. 
 
With offices in Brockton and Plymouth, MA, OCES is a non-profit agency serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout a service area of 23 communities.  
 
COVID-19 Agency Hero Award 
Community Services of Greater Brockton recognized OCES with the COVID-19 Agency Hero Award. This special award, given solely in 2022, recognized OCES for their outstanding service as an agency that personified the spirit of service, courage, justice, and commitment during the COVID-19 pandemic.   
 
Even though the agency’s daily operations changed significantly, OCES continued to provide all their pre-pandemic services. They also expanded programs and services to meet the new and changing needs of the community. Essentially, OCES remained open and delivered services throughout the pandemic. With primarily office-based onsite staff prior to COVID-19, OCES converted to a remote workforce within 24 hours. 
 
OCES introduced several new initiatives to address the increasing number of older adults facing food insecurities, including the “Grocery Bag” project and “Grab & Go” Meals. Delivery needs were met by more than 780 dedicated staff and volunteers. OCES also provided the necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to keep consumers, families, and staff safe. 
 
OCES took a leadership role in COVID-19 vaccination education; scheduling vaccination appointments for home-bound older adults and individuals with disabilities; and coordinated transportation for individuals to get to and from vaccine appointments.  
 
“We are incredibly proud that our agency has been recognized with Community Services of Greater Brockton’s COVID-19 Agency Hero Award,” said Nicole Long, CEO of OCES. “I would like to thank our extraordinary staff members and volunteers for their heroic efforts which ensured we were able to respond to the needs of the community and continue to fulfill our mission during an extremely difficult time for all.” 
 
The Excellence In Human Services Award 
Jordan Stocker, Options Counselor at OCES received Community Services of Greater Brockton’s Excellence In Human Services Award. This award is given to an outstanding employee or volunteer at a Human Services Agency who has at least two years of work experience in Human Services; works directly with clients at least fifty percent of their time; and has been outstanding in their community service and collaboration. Stocker, who joined OCES in 2019, was nominated for this award for his commitment to consumers in the Greater Brockton community, along with his commitment to the OCES Team. 

Alisa DeLage, OCES’ Chief Programs Officer and Jordan Stocker, OCES’ Options Counselor

Stocker is dedicated to assisting older adults and individuals with disabilities, and ensuring they are able to access and understand the resources that may be available to them. There is an increased need for assistance as more face housing instability, behavioral health issues, and financial concerns including being able to afford vital medications. Stocker has been asked to join several community groups to collaborate, determine ways to assist those in need, and provide input on concerning issues. He is focused on best serving those who are in need so they may live safely and independently within the community.  

According to Alisa DeLage, Chief Programs Officer at OCES, “Even in a moment when he was being recognized for his work, Jordan took the opportunity to highlight the need for affordable housing. Jordan always makes the individuals he serves the priority. We are honored to have Jordan as part of our team and are proud he has received this well-deserved award!” 
 
To learn more about services and resources provided by OCES, visit https://www.ocesma.org 
 
About Community Services of Greater Brockton 
Each year, the nonprofit organization Community Services of Greater Brockton holds their Annual Meeting and Community Awards Ceremony. The awards are granted to recipients in the Greater Brockton community in many different categories. For more information, visit their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/communityservicesofgreaterbrockton/ 
 
About OCES 
Founded in 1974, Old Colony Elder Services (OCES) is a non-profit agency proudly serving older adults and individuals with disabilities throughout greater Plymouth County and surrounding communities. OCES is a private, non-profit organization headquartered in Brockton with a second office in Plymouth. OCES is designated as one of 24 Aging Services Access Points (ASAPs) in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. OCES’ mission is to support the independence and dignity of older adults and individuals with disabilities by providing essential information and services that promote healthy and safe living. The agency offers a number of 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 and Staff Honored with Community AwardsRead More

Beverly Main Streets Kicked Off “Downtown for All” Program with Feature Film Event

BEVERLY, MA… A special showing of the award-winning documentary, “Lives Well Lived” at the Cabot Theatre in Beverly was well-received and marked the launch of Beverly Main Streets “Downtown for All” initiative, which would make the city of Beverly more accessible and open to everyone. 
 
Gary Moffie, CGR, CAPS, UDCP, president of Beverly, MA based The Remodeling Company who serves on the Board of Directors for Beverly Main Streets and is the committee Chair of Downtown for All, was instrumental in obtaining the rights to show this film.  
 
“Beverly Main Streets is developing a program that would make the city of Beverly more accessible and open to everyone – from senior citizens to people with disabilities to families with children,” explained Moffie. “The film celebrates the wit and wisdom of age, and the purpose of showing it ties in to our efforts to making Beverly more accessible for all.”  
 
The focus of the Downtown for All program is to incorporate universal design, which increases accessibility, improves safety and convenience, while also looking aesthetically pleasing. Numerous factors are addressed through universal design including fall prevention, enhanced visibility, and challenges pertaining to dexterity. 
 
Moffie is a Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) and Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) who is also certified by National Association of The Remodeling Industry (NARI) as a Universal Design Certified Professional (UDCP) and is an authority on universal design and aging in place.  
 
More events are being planned for later this year. For information and updates, visit the Beverly Main Streets website, www.bevmain.org. 
 
Individuals who are interested in getting involved and volunteering with Beverly Main Streets, visit https://www.bevmain.org/our-work/get-involved/ 
 
The Downtown for All film event was held April 28th and was sponsored by The Remodeling Company, Beverly Cultural Council (BCC), The YMCA, Beverly Council on Aging, Endicott College, and Beth Israel Lahey Health Beverly Hospital. 
 
About Beverly Main Streets 
Promoting and enhancing Beverly’s downtown economic vitality, cultural and historic resources, and quality of life, Beverly Main Streets is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information, visit, https://www.bevmain.org. 
             
About The Remodeling Company 
Founded in 1998, The Remodeling Company is a preeminent full-service residential remodeling firm in the Greater Boston area. Led by Gary Moffie, CAPS, CGR, UDCP, The Remodeling Company is dedicated to creating ideal living spaces to accommodate and enhance their customers’ lifestyles. The company specializes in universal design projects that meet the needs of everyday life while also enabling homeowners to age in place. 
 
Over the years, The Remodeling Company has been honored with numerous awards including National Association of The Remodeling Industry’s (NARI) 2021 Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) Award, Remodeling magazineʼs Big 50 Contractors, and Qualified Remodelerʼs Top 500 Remodeler list every year since 2003. Other awards include: Best of Houzz Service in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020; BRAGB 2018 Prism Gold Award for “Best Historical Renovation”; and Boston Home 10th Anniversary “Best Suburban Residence – A Colorful Past”.  The Remodeling Company is a member of the National Association of Home Builders, The Builders and Remodelers Association of Greater Boston, the National Association of The Remodeling Industry and the Professional Remodeling Organization of New England. For more information, visit https://www.theremodelingco.com 

Beverly Main Streets Kicked Off “Downtown for All” Program with Feature Film EventRead More

Emerson Bearing Boston Releases Latest Guide on Bearing Solutions for Machine Tools

BOSTON, MA… Emerson Bearing, a Boston, MA-based bearing company catering to niche markets nationwide and the sister company of Action Bearing which serves the New England market, recently announced the availability of a complimentary eBook for machine tool applications. 
 
Emerson Bearing’s latest free resource entitled, “Bearing Solutions for Machine Tool Applications” covers a variety of subjects including: the various types of bearings used in this industry; the common applications; how to maintain proper care and lubrication among other topics. 
 
Today’s machine tools rely on various specialized components that allow them to operate smoothly and efficiently while holding tight tolerances. Specific machine tool bearing applications include machining centers, automatic screw machines, grinding machines, high speed spindles, rotary tables, water jet machines and more. 
 
Machine tool bearings are designed with distinct geometries, features, and materials that make them suitable for specific machining purposes. Anticipated load pressure, temperature fluctuations, exposure to chemicals, and other factors will influence which type of bearing is best suited for a particular application. Ball and roller bearings are among the most versatile bearing types, and these are used in everything from turbine engines to medical equipment. 
 
According to Steve Katz, President of Emerson Bearing and Action Bearing, “This comprehensive guide will help to provide a better understanding of the various bearing types and how each will respond to specific operating conditions. It also covers how to maximize the life and performance of your machine tool and its components with proper maintenance, regular inspection and lubrication.” 
 
To download the complimentary Machine Tools guide from Emerson Bearing’s website, visit EmersonBearing.com. 
 
Emerson Bearing serves 16 major markets and their team of experts can assist with machine tool applications. To speak with an Emerson Bearing expert, contact 800-225-4587 or visit EmersonBearing.com. 
 
About Emerson Bearing Boston 
Founded in 1957, Emerson Bearing Boston specializes in bearings for niche markets nationwide. The company provides solutions to a variety of industries including: aggregate, concrete, mining, machine tools, electric motor repair, marine, material handling, metal processing, packaging, food processing, paper converting, printing, wind/power generation, recreation, heavy construction, robotics, automation, transportation, wood products, wastewater treatment, pump, compressor and oil field. 
  
Emerson Bearing Boston offers customers a one-stop shopping experience. With an online product catalog with over 3 million bearings – ranging in size from 3mm to tunnel-boring  
15-foot-diameter giants; a vast inventory of bearings; worldwide sourcing; a fixed price program; a knowledgeable staff; same day shipping and 24/7 service, Emerson Bearing Boston has become a leading provider of bearings in the U.S. They are the sister company of Action Bearing, which serves the New England market, and maintain headquarters at 201 Brighton Ave. Boston, MA. For more information, visit www.emersonbearing.com or call 800-225-4587. 
 

Emerson Bearing Boston Releases Latest Guide on Bearing Solutions for Machine ToolsRead More

CAS America Wins Remodeling Award for State-of-the-Art Closettec Showroom Design

READING, MA AND NORTH SMITHFIELD, RI… CAS America, a family-owned manufacturing company that designs and produces customer-specific casework, is a winner of the 2022 Chrysalis Award for Remodeling Excellence.  

Continuing to set new standards of professionalism, 79 companies from across the United States were named winners at the 2022 Chrysalis Awards for Remodeling Excellence. The entries were judged on overall design, the creative use of space and materials, and the degree to which the project enhanced the original structure.

CAS America was honored with the prestigious Chrysalis Award for their innovative design of the Closettec Showroom, which features prototypes of custom-designed and custom-built quality storage solutions for home and office. Making closet design fun and interesting, the showroom included traditional walk-in closets, Murphy wall beds, custom bookcases, a Mudroom, an innovative laundry room featuring a Pet station and more. The design breaks the traditional showroom model of a boring plain closet and showcases a whole home layout highlighting total home storage solutions utilizing the latest products, lighting and accessories.  What also makes it unique is that all displays were manufactured locally and feature products from the multiple divisions of The Beck Companies. This is the first Chrysalis Award for CAS America.

There are three Closettec Showrooms – one in the manufacturing facility in North Smithfield, RI, another is a state-of-the-art mobile showroom, and their newest location is inside Jordan’s Furniture in Reading, MA. CAS America and Closettec are among the The Beck Companies’ family of five companies based in North Smithfield, RI. 

“This was the first year they have entered the awards, and to take home top honors on the first attempt is impressive,” says Ken Kanline, Director of the Awards.

According to Tracey Beck, owner of The Beck Companies, “This has far exceeded our expectations and we are incredibly proud CAS America was named among the best in the remodeling industry.”

The Chrysalis Awards program, begun in 1994, recognizes the nation’s best work in fourteen general categories of residential and commercial remodeling. The Chrysalis Awards are open to every professional remodeler and design professional in the United States.

Pictures and summaries of the 2022 award-winning projects can be seen on Chrysalis website www.chrysalisawards.com beginning in August. 

About CAS America
CAS America is a family-owned manufacturing company providing end-to-end casework and countertop fabrication that is used in a variety of environments such as: Commercial, Administrative, Healthcare, Medical-Dental, Residential and Component Parts to name a few. CAS America operates alongside Closettec, Great American Recreation, Dark Horse Metal fabrication and KB Surfaces in an expansive facility in North Smithfield, RI. Visit www.casamerica.com

About Closettec
Serving New England since 1985, Closettec specializes in custom-designed, custom-fitted, and custom-built quality storage solutions. With their own staff of craftsmen and designers, Closettec team collaborates with you to design a solution that fits your needs and helps you stay organized while adding value to your home or office. Closettec offers on-site measurement at no charge, and provides manufacturing and installation services on all products. Closettec showroom is located in Reading MA or call us and we will bring the showroom to you. The company is headquartered in North Smithfield, RI. Visit closettec.com or contact 1-800-880-6792.

The Beck Companies
Within an 85,000 square foot facility in North Smithfield, Rhode Island, The Beck Companies has created a state-of-the-art, multi-specialty showroom, design, and high-tech fabrication/manufacturing megaplex for the wholesale fabrication of total project interior products such as countertops for kitchens, vanities, as well as commercial applications such as desks, bars, conference tables etc. Some of the countertop mediums manufactured feature granite, marble, soapstone, engineered stone, porcelain, stainless steel, laminate, solid surface and solid wood .  Along with this impressive array are custom closets and commercial casegoods. Strategically located under one sprawling roof is their family of companies, including KB Surfaces, CAS America, Closettec, Great American Recreation and Dark Horse Metal fabrication. Each division specializes in a distinct manufacturing skill set that complement and build upon each other to create a seamless manufacturing process unique in the industry. For more information, visit www.thebeckcos.com.

CAS America Wins Remodeling Award for State-of-the-Art Closettec Showroom DesignRead More

Personal College Counseling, Inc. Navigating Dual Degree/Joint Degree Opportunities

When it comes to college admissions, the interview process can be a bit daunting. Now imagine the application and admission process for dual degrees in highly competitive fields such as medicine and law.

With the mission to help each student who wants to succeed in college and beyond to find the college or university that is the best fit for them, Attorney Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore of Personal College Counseling, Inc. (PCCI) based in Raynham, MA, can help students navigate a complex and challenging application and admissions process, along with merit and financial aid process especially, if you want to find a joint degree program that’s right for you.

“Students who are undertaking dual degree programs must be academically highly qualified as well as super-motivated,” explained Attorney DaSilva-Kilgore. “Dual or joint degree programs are accelerated programs offered at a college or university in conjunction with a grad school where a student will graduate from college with a B.A. or B.S. degree but some of their credits automatically count towards their Master’s, JD or MBA, thereby reducing the time needed to complete the graduate program and saving them money. More importantly, it can give the college student direct access to law or medical school where the acceptance rates are even more competitive. These programs give students automatic entry or a direct pathway to the grad program at the next institution.”
    
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 the accelerated program itself as well as beyond – in their career. 

Attorney Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore

Attorney DaSilva-Kilgore continued, “Some universities offer several joint degrees – law, medicine, engineering to name a few.  Typically, these colleges can help their students get to the next level and save the student time and money. When a college has one of these affiliated programs it’s indicative that their college is well respected in that field and prepares their students well. They may be smaller than many of the “big name” schools you may be familiar with but in my opinion, these are hidden gems even if you are not in the accelerated program. For example, Drew University, a highly respected liberal arts school in Madison, N.J., has a 77 percent first time acceptance rate for medical school. Compare that to the national average of only 43 percent and you can see what I’m talking about.”

Dual degrees help to set the student apart, particularly in highly competitive fields such as medicine. For example, the admission rates for Physician Assistant programs nationwide is only about 31 percent which is even harder to get into than medical school. PCCI helps students navigate the unique application and admission challenges.

PCCI was established to help students and their parents/guardians pick the best school that puts them on the path to success. Essentially, PCCI helps determine which colleges and universities address the student’s academic and social needs; inspires them to achieve inside and outside of the classroom; provides them with tools for success, and is a good return on investment. PCCI offers an affordable, flat-fee based college search and application services to find the best college fit for a student.

PCCI’s services are available to students in all 50 states via video conferencing or via telephone. Virtual services as well as in-person, socially distanced services are available. For more information about PCCI or to arrange for a complimentary Parent/Student Personal College Consultation, visit the website at https://www.personalcollegecounseling.com or email nod@personalcollegecounseling.com.

About PCCI
Founded by Honoria DaSilva-Kilgore, Esq. who has been practicing law for more than 29 years, Personal College Counseling, Inc. (PCCI) provides high school students (and parents/guardians) with one-on-one guidance throughout the entire college preparation process. PCCI’s college planning includes research and recommendations that are specifically targeted and provide the best fit to the student’s abilities, interests, finances, and family circumstances. PCCI takes into consideration university and campus life; programs, internships and study abroad; athletics (Division I, II, and III) and clubs and intramurals. PCCI manages all important deadlines for testing, applications and forms, and assists with merit-based scholarships and financial aid. PCCI’s services are available to students in all 50 states via video conferencing or via telephone. 

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 https://www.personalcollegecounseling.com

Personal College Counseling, Inc. Navigating Dual Degree/Joint Degree OpportunitiesRead More