LAURA K. LEONE: History of Revere Chamber of Commerce 1910-2009
Content
Researched and written by Laurie Leone for Revere Chamber of Commerce print publications and website 2009
T
he Revere Chamber of Commerce was born out of the Revere Board of Trade which which was organized in 1910. It became the Revere Chamber of Commerce in 1915 and continued under its original charter until 1971. Alfred S. Hall was the first president and Colin F. Chisolm served as Executive Secretary for over 30 years. First Slogan
“See the Sea” was the first slogan of the Board of Trade that resulted in attracting people from allover the eastern United States to Revere. The slogan was changed in 1941 to “Build Up Revere.” The last presidents under that charter were Joseph A. Festa, Sr. of J. Festa Construction Company, and David Selya, former owner of the site that is now home to the Citizens Bank Building on Broadway. Decades of Service
Since its inception, the t he Revere Chamber of Commerce has promoted the growth and development of Revere. Throughout the years, years, the Chamber has devoted itself to the promotion, stimulation, and ex pansion of business and and industry. The Chamber also frequently participates and provides leadership for proj ects intended to effect civic improvement and enhance the social well-being of the community. In 1920, the Revere Chamber was praised by mayor Walsworth for its good work at a hearing that led to Boston’s elevated service (known today as the MBTA Blue Line) being extended into Revere. The Chamber also recommended recommended increased pay for local local teachers. In 1930, the Revere Chamber conducted an Industrial Exhibition at City Hall. At the time, this event was was considered the biggest venture ever undertaken in Revere. Revere. The Chamber also promoted Excursions Excursions to Revere Beach from Try, NY; Portland, ME; White River Junction, VT; and Manchester and Nashua, NH, along with many other eastern towns. In 1931, the Revere Chamber held a huge Charity Ball. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Revere Chamber of Commerce awarded prizes for the most attractively illuminated homes and businesses. It supported street widening projects, light improvements, bridge projects, and held carnivals.
The last presidents under that charter were Joseph A. Festa, Sr. of J. Festa Construction Company, and David Selya, former owner of the
site that is now home to the Citizens Bank Building on Broadway. Joseph A. Festa, Sr., 1961-1966
Mr. Festa had a vision for Revere’s Broadway business district to stay vibrant and continue to prosper. Keeping an eye toward customer convenience and accommodation, Mr. Festa advocated for expanded parking, imagining the length of Broadway’s storefronts to have adjacent parking lots positioned behind them. While this dream never came to fruition, Mr. Festa was successful in advancing the creation of Revere’s present-day Municipal Parking Lot. Continuing through into the late sixties, the Chamber maintained its dedication to aid commerce commerce and progress progress within Revere. With the help and vision of David Selya, local optometrist Dr. Arnold Buonfiglio, and Bob Frasier who was manager of Shawmut Bank on Broadway, the Chamber initiated an annual clean-up campaign, held Arbor Day exercises, and produced “Welcome to Revere” Chamber signs. The Chamber also hosted meetings to discuss discuss a citywide anniversary celebration, commemorating the City’s 50th Anniversary. Additionally, the Chamber organized informational informational sessions involving an urban renewal proposal for Revere Beach. The proposal, authored by Jerome Rappaport Rappaport who designed the massive overhaul of Boston’s West End, required the taking of 250 residential properties around the Shirley Avenue neighborhood. This project never came to be. Then in 1972, because of a lack of succession, the Chamber ex perienced a lapse that lasted eight ei ght years. The Chamber’s Revival
In early 1978, a meeting took place in the old General Edwards Inn on Revere Beach. Beach. Present at the meeting were four businessmen who would later become beco me “founders’” of the new Revere Chamber of Commerce. Commerce. Those men were: were: Richard P. Dalton of Wonderland Greyhound Park; Robert J. Haas, Jr. o f Haas Business Forms; John A. McCarthy of McCarthy Dairy; and Richard Powers, editor of The Revere Revere Journal. Dick Dalton served as the first first president, with John McCarthy as the first vice president, and Dick Powers as first secretary. secretary. Bob Haas would soon become the City’s mayor. The Chamber “Wave”
In 1979, the Chamber held a citywide contest to develop a logo. From hundreds of entries, the Revere public school system’s system’s Art Department, acting as contest judges, chose a clever “wave”
design that hinted at the city’s long history of Revere Beach while subtly incorporating the letters R-C-C. That design, created by a young Revere High School student named Michael Mazzarella, has served as the Chamber’s logo ever since. Richard P. Dalton 1970-1980
Dick Dalton was the first president of the Chamber when it was reorganized in 1979. One of the prominent decisions made in these early days was to incorporate into the by-laws that no elected official or candidate for public office could serve on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. This early decision to divorce itself from politics has allowed the Chamber to enjoy a meaningful relationship with elected officials while remaining objective as it strives to identify and represent the needs of the business community. It was during this first first year, the Chamber held a citywide contest to develop a logo. The Chamber’s kept this logo ever since. John A. McCarthy 1981-1982
Under the leadership of Mr. McCarthy of McCarthy Dair y, the Chamber supported Revere’s economic growth and revitalization efforts by endorsing the designation of the Washington Avenue/ Squire Road section of the City as a Commercial Area Revitalization District. This advancement allowed Redstone Theatres to reconstruct what was the Revere Drive-In into a $3 million cinema complex that has continued to grow into what today is the 20screen theatre known as Showcase Cinemas Revere. Barbara B. Tufts 1983-1984
As the Chamber’s first woman president, Ms. Tufts, representing Revere Federal Savings Bank, worked to grow the Chamber’s membership and increase the Chamber’s visibility within the community. She was instrumental in engaging the interest of prominent business men and women, encouraging them to join the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Directors. This infused the Revere Chamber Chamber of Commerce with credibility and a certain level of respect, paving the way for exceptional growth in the coming years. Maurene Stepp Campbell was the Executive Director from 1984 until 1991. Bill Ferrullo 1985
Mr. Ferrullo, proprietor of Modern Day Plumbing, continued to grow the membership at a brisk clip throughout his time as president. His commanding presence and position within the community assured outstanding attendance at all of the Chamber’s functions and events. During his tenure, the Chamber partnered with United Chamber Insured Plans to p rovide small businesses access to group health insurance insurance rates. Under Mr. Ferrullo’s Ferrullo’s leadership, the Chamber launched its annual Golf Tournament, which remains a highly anticipated annual event within the community and serves as the longest standing fundraiser for the C hamber. Angelo “Sonny” Todisco 1986
By now, the Chamber was starting to grow in leaps and bounds and had to purchase purchase its first computer. The Chamber began began distributing a newsletter to over 500 businesses and launched the Membership Courtesy Card program, which encouraged members to offer each other special discounts for products products and services. Under Mr. Todisco’s leadership, the Chamber improved downtown parking b y supporting better access to the Municipal Parking lot on Sprague Street. Jay Battista 1987-1988
During these years, the Chamber’s popularity within the community was evident as annual functions like the Installation of Officers & Directors and Pots of Gold drew crowds of over 200. The Pot of Gold was especially lucrative, bringing in profits of between $8000 and $9000. It was during Mr. Battista’s tenure tenure that the Chamber held its first Business-to-Business Business-to-Business Exposition. The event, held at the Wonderland Ballroom, was sold out and attracted huge crowds of spectators and vendors. vendors. Also, around this time, the Chamber produced a 32-page booklet about about Revere. With a full-color photo collage on the cover, the booklet included extensive information about the history, landmarks, culture, community development and health services in Revere. James A. Dixon 1989
Around this time, the Chamber realized its dream of having a storefront on Broadway. The office was located at 319 Broadway Broadway next to the Revere Animal Animal Clinic. This new centralized location gave the Chamber the accessibility it needed to better serve its members and the community. During Mr. Dixon’s presidency, the Chamber produced its first membership membership directory and printed 15,000 copies. Additionally, the Chamber established the Holiday Ad Program in partnership with The Revere Journal. Journal. The Chamber would run two full full pages with holiday greetings from the Chamber on five different holidays throughout the year. year. Members could purchase purchase businesscard size ads to run on these pages. Stephen Reardon 1990-1991
During the early nineties, the t he Chamber experienced some difficult times, owing in part to the general outlook of the struggling economy. In spite of this and to Mr. Reardon’s Reardon’s credit, the Chamber was able to continue with a successful Golf Tournament and with the help of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, was able to run one last successful Pot of Gold. Additionally, the Chamber and its board contributed significantly to advance the Revere Santa Fund, a charity gift-giving endeavor that anonymously delivered Christmas gi fts to needy families in the community. The Chamber continued continued providing traditional benefits to its members, but numbers began to wane. Salvatore J. Gesamondo 1992-1993
Wth budgetary constraints becoming a burden, the Chamber began to feel some relief when Sal Gesamondo moved the office from its storefront at 319 Broadway to an upstairs office further down Broadway at number 655. Office hours were tapered, with with office presence
reduced to volunteers filling gaps when the Chamber lacked regular, hired staff. As a creative alternative to the previous previous Pot of Gold fundraiser, Mr. Gesamondo directed the Chamber in the production of a series of eight “Fight Nights,” featuring professional boxers. The events were open to the public public and held at the Beachmont VFW. Charles H. Anderson 1994
Charlie Anderson, representing The Revere Journal, stepped up to the plate in 1994 to take charge as president of the Revere Cham ber of Commerce. Considering he had only a couple of years ex perience as a Director on the Board, Mr. Anderson did a pretty good job. With an interest in Economic Development, he coordinated a breakfast that featured Mitt Romney, then candidate for state senator, to speak at a Chamber Business Business Breakfast. Boston television stations 4, 5 and 7 covered the event. Under Mr. Anderson’s direction, the Chamber also hosted a family event, “Barney the Purple Dinosaur.” The event was held in the Revere Revere High School Auditorium and attracted a full house of parents and youngsters. The Chamber’s community vibe vibe was starting to im prove. Daniel Rizzo 1995-1996
Under Danny’s direction, the Chamber upgraded its office equipment, including computer software and hardware, and the Cham ber office found a bright new home on Revere Street. Street. In an effort to increase communication and camaraderie among members, Mr. Rizzo revised the Chamber’s newsletter to a friendlier, more timely and informative format with a change in distribution from quarterly to monthly. During these years, the Chamber also held held well-attended social events, like “Revere Goes Country” and “A Day at the State House” with guided tours from Representative William G. Reinstein. The Chamber also continued with annual events such as the Multi-Chamber Business Card E xchange, Annual Golf Tournament, Town Meeting, and Health Insurance Open Enrollment. Laurie Leone was Executive Director from July 1996 until the end of November 2000. John J. Verrengia 1997-2000
Surrounding himself with dedicated people to serve on the board, Mr. Verrengia led the Chamber in hosting what became a fouryear stretch of new events like the Business Expo and the Quarterly Business Breakfast Breakfast Speaker Series. Series. In 1998, the Chamber Chamber launched its first website as a part of Revere Beach.com, moving it later to www.reverechamber.org, where it remains online today. During this time, the Chamber also participated in the Economic Development Summit for Revere’s Revere’s Future. The summit was sponsored by the City of Revere, the Revere Partnership for Economic Development, the Revere Chamber of Commerce and The Revere Journal. Journal. Additionally, recognizing the potential exex pense for small and large businesses, the C hamber took a stand against changing Revere’s Revere’s area code. The Chamber also also publicly opposed a garbage transfer station for Revere and closely monitored discussions for extending the MBTA Blue Line and ex-
panded gaming in Massachusetts. Michael P. Doody 2001
With four years of experience as the Chamber’s treasurer behind him, Mr. Doody, representing Revere Federal Savings Bank then Danvers Bank, moved into the president’s seat in January of 2001. The Chamber Office, at this time located in a storefront on Winthrop Avenue near the corner of Broadway, enjoyed more visibility and became more accessible to Chamber members and to the community as a whole. Chamber events like the Golf Tournament were community mainstays, selling out year after year and providing the Chamber with a steady stream stream of revenue. Because of Mike’s ceaseless passion for membership recruitment, the Chamber’s numbers climbed, but never broke broke 300. Mike continued as chairman of the Chamber’s Golf Committee until 2006. Janice Corkhum was Administrative Director 2001 to 2003. Patricia A. Pace 2002
Ms. Pace was involved with the t he Chamber for nearly a decade and served as secretary and vice president before becoming the second woman ever to advance as president of Revere Chamber of Commerce. Representing Danvers Bank, Ms. Pace’s Pace’s strong connection to Revere’s business community was evident as she worked to foster goodwill among the Chamber’s members. members. During her tenure, the Chamber reinstituted its Member Appreciation program that identified and honored individual businesses for their commitment to the community and long-standing loyalty to the Cham ber. Today, area businesses businesses continue to proudly proudly display Revere Chamber Appreciation plaques and certificates in their pl aces of business. Additionally, under Patty’s direction, the Chamber organized a candy and flower gift-giving program for local seniors, sponsored by area businesses and politicians. Albert J. Terminiello, Jr. 2003-2004
Mr. Terminiello, representing the Independent Newspaper Group, set immediately to restore traditional Chamber events like the Pot of Gold and Mother’s Day Brunch. These events brought in extra funds which allowed the Chamber to design, craft and install the eight foot “Welcome to Revere” sign which stands at Brown Circle today. Al’s energy and and enthusiasm appeared contagious as former members rejoined the Chamber and City Co uncilors renewed their support. support. Kathy Magno was was Administrative Director from 2003 to 2004. Mr. Terminiello returned to the board in 2008 through 2010, bringing the same creative commitment he showed when he was President. During these later years, Al served served on the Chamber’s Government Affairs committee, representing the business-interest public before the City Council. As chairman of the Special Events Committee in 2009, he spearheaded the Texas Hold’em, served as the Chamber’s volunteer photographer and helped the Chamber nurture strong ties within the community and among other organizations. In December 2010, Al successfully persuaded persuaded Revere’s City Council to prioritize funds to refurbish the Chamber’s
“Welcome To Revere Sign” that had previously suffered damage during escavation work at Brown Circle. Revere Beautification Committee deserves thanks for this endeavor as well. Bob Silverman 2004-2005
Mr. Silverman began his presidency with the motto, “Let’s Get Down to Business” and vowed to have a stronger relationship with city government. Starting with plans to launch a membership drive, strengthen the business breakfast speaker agenda and im prove Chamber influence on business related issues, Bob envisioned the Chamber as a “point organization” for all business hap penings in Revere. The annual Golf Tournament continued to flourish as did newer events like the Chamber’s Holiday Party. But at this time, a troubling problem with officer succession emerged. Nancy Sherry was Administrative Director from 2004 to 2007. John J. Verrengia 2006-2007
Recognizing the Chamber’s need for continued leadership, Mr. Verrengia stepped forward and resumed the position of president. He worked diligently with with board members to review the bylaws, reinstitute project committees and devise a working calendar of events. Throughout the years, John continually proves his sincere commitment to Revere Chamber C hamber of Commerce and remains a genuine link to the Chamber’s evolving history, accomplishments and steadfast mission to represent, promote a nd serve Revere’s business community with integrity. Jeffrey M. Howe 2007-2009
During these years, interest in Chamber events climbed. This was in part to Mr. Howe’s prominent presence in Revere’s business community as Vice President and Branch Manager of Citizens Bank in the heart of Broadway. Along with the return of Laurie Leone as Executive Director, Jeff and t he Chamber’s board em barked on a rejuvenation of the Chamber office, installing new software, acquiring new office furniture, and designing a new fullcolor newsletter. The outstanding efforts of t he Revere Chamber
of Commerce included promoting the Chamber’s signature initiative “Spend Locally SHOP REVERE” to aid the local economy, supporting member business endeavors like permitting outdoor seating for Antonia’s Restaurant on Revere Beach, recognizing member milestones like 35th anniversaries for Maggio’s Restaurant and Peter Lattanzi Insurance Agency, and helping t o celebrate Lighthouse Nursing Care’s statewide recognition as #1 in the state. In 2009, with Jeff’s direction and support from the board of directors, the Chamber fought and won the fight against proposed increases to Boston Harbor Tunnel tolls and delayed Revere’s adoption of the new local option meals tax. The Chamber felt this tax unfairly burdened the restaurant industry. During Jeff’s tenure, the Chamber and its board were optimistic and cheerfully worked together on projects they hoped would im prove the Chamber’s financial standing and raise its social capital. In 2009, the Chamber celebrated the 30th anniversary of its reorganization by sponsoring a four-page spread in The Revere Journal featuring congratulatory ads from its members and friends. Thanks to the newspaper’s newspaper’s generosity generosity in donating the space, the Chamber raised $3,000 from this initiative. The annual Multi-Chamber Business Card Exchange held at Showcase Cinemas Revere continued to draw 120 or so business people from Revere and nearby nearby communities. Business breakfasts breakfasts were very popular with with regular attendance of 70+. Among the featured presenters were Mayor Thomas Ambrosino, representatives from MassHighway, Speaker of the House Bob DeLeo and Chip Tuttle, COO of Suffolk Downs. In 2009, with Jeff’s perseverance, the board’s commitment and the generosity of new board member Howard Cook, o wner of Sound & Vision Media, the Chamber launched a brand new, fully loaded website. The Chamber also also held two golf tournaments, tournaments, a Meet & Greet Honoring Past Presidents, two speed net working events, and the first ever Chamber Texas Hold’em Poker T ournament at Suffolk Downs. The Chamber looks forward to bright years ahead.
T
he Revere Chamber of Commerce was born out of the Revere Board of Trade which which was organized in 1910. It became the Revere Chamber of Commerce in 1915 and continued under its original charter until 1971. Alfred S. Hall was the first president and Colin F. Chisolm served as Executive Secretary for over 30 years. First Slogan
“See the Sea” was the first slogan of the Board of Trade that resulted in attracting people from allover the eastern United States to Revere. The slogan was changed in 1941 to “Build Up Revere.” The last presidents under that charter were Joseph A. Festa, Sr. of J. Festa Construction Company, and David Selya, former owner of the site that is now home to the Citizens Bank Building on Broadway. Decades of Service
Since its inception, the t he Revere Chamber of Commerce has promoted the growth and development of Revere. Throughout the years, years, the Chamber has devoted itself to the promotion, stimulation, and ex pansion of business and and industry. The Chamber also frequently participates and provides leadership for proj ects intended to effect civic improvement and enhance the social well-being of the community. In 1920, the Revere Chamber was praised by mayor Walsworth for its good work at a hearing that led to Boston’s elevated service (known today as the MBTA Blue Line) being extended into Revere. The Chamber also recommended recommended increased pay for local local teachers. In 1930, the Revere Chamber conducted an Industrial Exhibition at City Hall. At the time, this event was was considered the biggest venture ever undertaken in Revere. Revere. The Chamber also promoted Excursions Excursions to Revere Beach from Try, NY; Portland, ME; White River Junction, VT; and Manchester and Nashua, NH, along with many other eastern towns. In 1931, the Revere Chamber held a huge Charity Ball. In the 1950s and 1960s, the Revere Chamber of Commerce awarded prizes for the most attractively illuminated homes and businesses. It supported street widening projects, light improvements, bridge projects, and held carnivals.
The last presidents under that charter were Joseph A. Festa, Sr. of J. Festa Construction Company, and David Selya, former owner of the
site that is now home to the Citizens Bank Building on Broadway. Joseph A. Festa, Sr., 1961-1966
Mr. Festa had a vision for Revere’s Broadway business district to stay vibrant and continue to prosper. Keeping an eye toward customer convenience and accommodation, Mr. Festa advocated for expanded parking, imagining the length of Broadway’s storefronts to have adjacent parking lots positioned behind them. While this dream never came to fruition, Mr. Festa was successful in advancing the creation of Revere’s present-day Municipal Parking Lot. Continuing through into the late sixties, the Chamber maintained its dedication to aid commerce commerce and progress progress within Revere. With the help and vision of David Selya, local optometrist Dr. Arnold Buonfiglio, and Bob Frasier who was manager of Shawmut Bank on Broadway, the Chamber initiated an annual clean-up campaign, held Arbor Day exercises, and produced “Welcome to Revere” Chamber signs. The Chamber also hosted meetings to discuss discuss a citywide anniversary celebration, commemorating the City’s 50th Anniversary. Additionally, the Chamber organized informational informational sessions involving an urban renewal proposal for Revere Beach. The proposal, authored by Jerome Rappaport Rappaport who designed the massive overhaul of Boston’s West End, required the taking of 250 residential properties around the Shirley Avenue neighborhood. This project never came to be. Then in 1972, because of a lack of succession, the Chamber ex perienced a lapse that lasted eight ei ght years. The Chamber’s Revival
In early 1978, a meeting took place in the old General Edwards Inn on Revere Beach. Beach. Present at the meeting were four businessmen who would later become beco me “founders’” of the new Revere Chamber of Commerce. Commerce. Those men were: were: Richard P. Dalton of Wonderland Greyhound Park; Robert J. Haas, Jr. o f Haas Business Forms; John A. McCarthy of McCarthy Dairy; and Richard Powers, editor of The Revere Revere Journal. Dick Dalton served as the first first president, with John McCarthy as the first vice president, and Dick Powers as first secretary. secretary. Bob Haas would soon become the City’s mayor. The Chamber “Wave”
In 1979, the Chamber held a citywide contest to develop a logo. From hundreds of entries, the Revere public school system’s system’s Art Department, acting as contest judges, chose a clever “wave”
design that hinted at the city’s long history of Revere Beach while subtly incorporating the letters R-C-C. That design, created by a young Revere High School student named Michael Mazzarella, has served as the Chamber’s logo ever since. Richard P. Dalton 1970-1980
Dick Dalton was the first president of the Chamber when it was reorganized in 1979. One of the prominent decisions made in these early days was to incorporate into the by-laws that no elected official or candidate for public office could serve on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. This early decision to divorce itself from politics has allowed the Chamber to enjoy a meaningful relationship with elected officials while remaining objective as it strives to identify and represent the needs of the business community. It was during this first first year, the Chamber held a citywide contest to develop a logo. The Chamber’s kept this logo ever since. John A. McCarthy 1981-1982
Under the leadership of Mr. McCarthy of McCarthy Dair y, the Chamber supported Revere’s economic growth and revitalization efforts by endorsing the designation of the Washington Avenue/ Squire Road section of the City as a Commercial Area Revitalization District. This advancement allowed Redstone Theatres to reconstruct what was the Revere Drive-In into a $3 million cinema complex that has continued to grow into what today is the 20screen theatre known as Showcase Cinemas Revere. Barbara B. Tufts 1983-1984
As the Chamber’s first woman president, Ms. Tufts, representing Revere Federal Savings Bank, worked to grow the Chamber’s membership and increase the Chamber’s visibility within the community. She was instrumental in engaging the interest of prominent business men and women, encouraging them to join the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Directors. This infused the Revere Chamber Chamber of Commerce with credibility and a certain level of respect, paving the way for exceptional growth in the coming years. Maurene Stepp Campbell was the Executive Director from 1984 until 1991. Bill Ferrullo 1985
Mr. Ferrullo, proprietor of Modern Day Plumbing, continued to grow the membership at a brisk clip throughout his time as president. His commanding presence and position within the community assured outstanding attendance at all of the Chamber’s functions and events. During his tenure, the Chamber partnered with United Chamber Insured Plans to p rovide small businesses access to group health insurance insurance rates. Under Mr. Ferrullo’s Ferrullo’s leadership, the Chamber launched its annual Golf Tournament, which remains a highly anticipated annual event within the community and serves as the longest standing fundraiser for the C hamber. Angelo “Sonny” Todisco 1986
By now, the Chamber was starting to grow in leaps and bounds and had to purchase purchase its first computer. The Chamber began began distributing a newsletter to over 500 businesses and launched the Membership Courtesy Card program, which encouraged members to offer each other special discounts for products products and services. Under Mr. Todisco’s leadership, the Chamber improved downtown parking b y supporting better access to the Municipal Parking lot on Sprague Street. Jay Battista 1987-1988
During these years, the Chamber’s popularity within the community was evident as annual functions like the Installation of Officers & Directors and Pots of Gold drew crowds of over 200. The Pot of Gold was especially lucrative, bringing in profits of between $8000 and $9000. It was during Mr. Battista’s tenure tenure that the Chamber held its first Business-to-Business Business-to-Business Exposition. The event, held at the Wonderland Ballroom, was sold out and attracted huge crowds of spectators and vendors. vendors. Also, around this time, the Chamber produced a 32-page booklet about about Revere. With a full-color photo collage on the cover, the booklet included extensive information about the history, landmarks, culture, community development and health services in Revere. James A. Dixon 1989
Around this time, the Chamber realized its dream of having a storefront on Broadway. The office was located at 319 Broadway Broadway next to the Revere Animal Animal Clinic. This new centralized location gave the Chamber the accessibility it needed to better serve its members and the community. During Mr. Dixon’s presidency, the Chamber produced its first membership membership directory and printed 15,000 copies. Additionally, the Chamber established the Holiday Ad Program in partnership with The Revere Journal. Journal. The Chamber would run two full full pages with holiday greetings from the Chamber on five different holidays throughout the year. year. Members could purchase purchase businesscard size ads to run on these pages. Stephen Reardon 1990-1991
During the early nineties, the t he Chamber experienced some difficult times, owing in part to the general outlook of the struggling economy. In spite of this and to Mr. Reardon’s Reardon’s credit, the Chamber was able to continue with a successful Golf Tournament and with the help of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, was able to run one last successful Pot of Gold. Additionally, the Chamber and its board contributed significantly to advance the Revere Santa Fund, a charity gift-giving endeavor that anonymously delivered Christmas gi fts to needy families in the community. The Chamber continued continued providing traditional benefits to its members, but numbers began to wane. Salvatore J. Gesamondo 1992-1993
Wth budgetary constraints becoming a burden, the Chamber began to feel some relief when Sal Gesamondo moved the office from its storefront at 319 Broadway to an upstairs office further down Broadway at number 655. Office hours were tapered, with with office presence
reduced to volunteers filling gaps when the Chamber lacked regular, hired staff. As a creative alternative to the previous previous Pot of Gold fundraiser, Mr. Gesamondo directed the Chamber in the production of a series of eight “Fight Nights,” featuring professional boxers. The events were open to the public public and held at the Beachmont VFW. Charles H. Anderson 1994
Charlie Anderson, representing The Revere Journal, stepped up to the plate in 1994 to take charge as president of the Revere Cham ber of Commerce. Considering he had only a couple of years ex perience as a Director on the Board, Mr. Anderson did a pretty good job. With an interest in Economic Development, he coordinated a breakfast that featured Mitt Romney, then candidate for state senator, to speak at a Chamber Business Business Breakfast. Boston television stations 4, 5 and 7 covered the event. Under Mr. Anderson’s direction, the Chamber also hosted a family event, “Barney the Purple Dinosaur.” The event was held in the Revere Revere High School Auditorium and attracted a full house of parents and youngsters. The Chamber’s community vibe vibe was starting to im prove. Daniel Rizzo 1995-1996
Under Danny’s direction, the Chamber upgraded its office equipment, including computer software and hardware, and the Cham ber office found a bright new home on Revere Street. Street. In an effort to increase communication and camaraderie among members, Mr. Rizzo revised the Chamber’s newsletter to a friendlier, more timely and informative format with a change in distribution from quarterly to monthly. During these years, the Chamber also held held well-attended social events, like “Revere Goes Country” and “A Day at the State House” with guided tours from Representative William G. Reinstein. The Chamber also continued with annual events such as the Multi-Chamber Business Card E xchange, Annual Golf Tournament, Town Meeting, and Health Insurance Open Enrollment. Laurie Leone was Executive Director from July 1996 until the end of November 2000. John J. Verrengia 1997-2000
Surrounding himself with dedicated people to serve on the board, Mr. Verrengia led the Chamber in hosting what became a fouryear stretch of new events like the Business Expo and the Quarterly Business Breakfast Breakfast Speaker Series. Series. In 1998, the Chamber Chamber launched its first website as a part of Revere Beach.com, moving it later to www.reverechamber.org, where it remains online today. During this time, the Chamber also participated in the Economic Development Summit for Revere’s Revere’s Future. The summit was sponsored by the City of Revere, the Revere Partnership for Economic Development, the Revere Chamber of Commerce and The Revere Journal. Journal. Additionally, recognizing the potential exex pense for small and large businesses, the C hamber took a stand against changing Revere’s Revere’s area code. The Chamber also also publicly opposed a garbage transfer station for Revere and closely monitored discussions for extending the MBTA Blue Line and ex-
panded gaming in Massachusetts. Michael P. Doody 2001
With four years of experience as the Chamber’s treasurer behind him, Mr. Doody, representing Revere Federal Savings Bank then Danvers Bank, moved into the president’s seat in January of 2001. The Chamber Office, at this time located in a storefront on Winthrop Avenue near the corner of Broadway, enjoyed more visibility and became more accessible to Chamber members and to the community as a whole. Chamber events like the Golf Tournament were community mainstays, selling out year after year and providing the Chamber with a steady stream stream of revenue. Because of Mike’s ceaseless passion for membership recruitment, the Chamber’s numbers climbed, but never broke broke 300. Mike continued as chairman of the Chamber’s Golf Committee until 2006. Janice Corkhum was Administrative Director 2001 to 2003. Patricia A. Pace 2002
Ms. Pace was involved with the t he Chamber for nearly a decade and served as secretary and vice president before becoming the second woman ever to advance as president of Revere Chamber of Commerce. Representing Danvers Bank, Ms. Pace’s Pace’s strong connection to Revere’s business community was evident as she worked to foster goodwill among the Chamber’s members. members. During her tenure, the Chamber reinstituted its Member Appreciation program that identified and honored individual businesses for their commitment to the community and long-standing loyalty to the Cham ber. Today, area businesses businesses continue to proudly proudly display Revere Chamber Appreciation plaques and certificates in their pl aces of business. Additionally, under Patty’s direction, the Chamber organized a candy and flower gift-giving program for local seniors, sponsored by area businesses and politicians. Albert J. Terminiello, Jr. 2003-2004
Mr. Terminiello, representing the Independent Newspaper Group, set immediately to restore traditional Chamber events like the Pot of Gold and Mother’s Day Brunch. These events brought in extra funds which allowed the Chamber to design, craft and install the eight foot “Welcome to Revere” sign which stands at Brown Circle today. Al’s energy and and enthusiasm appeared contagious as former members rejoined the Chamber and City Co uncilors renewed their support. support. Kathy Magno was was Administrative Director from 2003 to 2004. Mr. Terminiello returned to the board in 2008 through 2010, bringing the same creative commitment he showed when he was President. During these later years, Al served served on the Chamber’s Government Affairs committee, representing the business-interest public before the City Council. As chairman of the Special Events Committee in 2009, he spearheaded the Texas Hold’em, served as the Chamber’s volunteer photographer and helped the Chamber nurture strong ties within the community and among other organizations. In December 2010, Al successfully persuaded persuaded Revere’s City Council to prioritize funds to refurbish the Chamber’s
“Welcome To Revere Sign” that had previously suffered damage during escavation work at Brown Circle. Revere Beautification Committee deserves thanks for this endeavor as well. Bob Silverman 2004-2005
Mr. Silverman began his presidency with the motto, “Let’s Get Down to Business” and vowed to have a stronger relationship with city government. Starting with plans to launch a membership drive, strengthen the business breakfast speaker agenda and im prove Chamber influence on business related issues, Bob envisioned the Chamber as a “point organization” for all business hap penings in Revere. The annual Golf Tournament continued to flourish as did newer events like the Chamber’s Holiday Party. But at this time, a troubling problem with officer succession emerged. Nancy Sherry was Administrative Director from 2004 to 2007. John J. Verrengia 2006-2007
Recognizing the Chamber’s need for continued leadership, Mr. Verrengia stepped forward and resumed the position of president. He worked diligently with with board members to review the bylaws, reinstitute project committees and devise a working calendar of events. Throughout the years, John continually proves his sincere commitment to Revere Chamber C hamber of Commerce and remains a genuine link to the Chamber’s evolving history, accomplishments and steadfast mission to represent, promote a nd serve Revere’s business community with integrity. Jeffrey M. Howe 2007-2009
During these years, interest in Chamber events climbed. This was in part to Mr. Howe’s prominent presence in Revere’s business community as Vice President and Branch Manager of Citizens Bank in the heart of Broadway. Along with the return of Laurie Leone as Executive Director, Jeff and t he Chamber’s board em barked on a rejuvenation of the Chamber office, installing new software, acquiring new office furniture, and designing a new fullcolor newsletter. The outstanding efforts of t he Revere Chamber
of Commerce included promoting the Chamber’s signature initiative “Spend Locally SHOP REVERE” to aid the local economy, supporting member business endeavors like permitting outdoor seating for Antonia’s Restaurant on Revere Beach, recognizing member milestones like 35th anniversaries for Maggio’s Restaurant and Peter Lattanzi Insurance Agency, and helping t o celebrate Lighthouse Nursing Care’s statewide recognition as #1 in the state. In 2009, with Jeff’s direction and support from the board of directors, the Chamber fought and won the fight against proposed increases to Boston Harbor Tunnel tolls and delayed Revere’s adoption of the new local option meals tax. The Chamber felt this tax unfairly burdened the restaurant industry. During Jeff’s tenure, the Chamber and its board were optimistic and cheerfully worked together on projects they hoped would im prove the Chamber’s financial standing and raise its social capital. In 2009, the Chamber celebrated the 30th anniversary of its reorganization by sponsoring a four-page spread in The Revere Journal featuring congratulatory ads from its members and friends. Thanks to the newspaper’s newspaper’s generosity generosity in donating the space, the Chamber raised $3,000 from this initiative. The annual Multi-Chamber Business Card Exchange held at Showcase Cinemas Revere continued to draw 120 or so business people from Revere and nearby nearby communities. Business breakfasts breakfasts were very popular with with regular attendance of 70+. Among the featured presenters were Mayor Thomas Ambrosino, representatives from MassHighway, Speaker of the House Bob DeLeo and Chip Tuttle, COO of Suffolk Downs. In 2009, with Jeff’s perseverance, the board’s commitment and the generosity of new board member Howard Cook, o wner of Sound & Vision Media, the Chamber launched a brand new, fully loaded website. The Chamber also also held two golf tournaments, tournaments, a Meet & Greet Honoring Past Presidents, two speed net working events, and the first ever Chamber Texas Hold’em Poker T ournament at Suffolk Downs. The Chamber looks forward to bright years ahead.
