Charles River Chamber Launches ‘Small Shops’ Program to Help Independent Retailers

The following announcement was provided by the Charles River Chamber:

The Charles River Regional Chamber is launching Small Shops, a new pilot program designed to support independently owned, single-location brick-and-mortar retailers in Newton, Needham, Watertown and Wellesley. Eligible retailers will receive free basic chamber membership, granting them access to essential networking, advocacy, business resources and marketing opportunities. “Our small independent retailers face many challenges, including competition from online shopping, soaring operating costs, staffing shortages and, now, worries about tariffs, immigration, the financial markets and overall economic uncertainty,” said Greg Reibman, the chamber’s president and CEO. “At the same time, our small shops bring vibrancy to our small downtowns and village centers. They’re part of what makes our communities desirable places to live and work,” Reibman added.

More Than 2 Dozen Open Houses in Watertown This Week

Homebuyers have a wealth of choices of open houses this week around town. See the list of properties hosting tours below. 166 Worcester St., $949,900, 3 bedroom 2 bathroom 1,934 sq. ft. Single Family, Open houses: Saturday, March 15 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM Sunday, March 16 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM

30 Boyd St.

Marvelous Barber Lounge Expands to Arsenal Yards

Marvelous Barber Lounge opened recently at Arsenal Yards in Watertown. (Contributed Photo)

The following announcement was provided by Arsenal Yards:

Marvelous Barber Lounge (MBL), a symbol of excellence and community-driven success in the Boston area, is thrilled to announce the recent opening of its newest location at Arsenal Yards in Watertown. Founded by Lex Andre Daluz, a second-generation Master Barber and entrepreneur whose journey from cutting hair at home to owning multiple successful barbershops is nothing short of inspirational, MBL aims to elevate the grooming experience for everyone who walks through its doors. Lex began his career as an apprentice at the age of 12, learning about the art of barbering from his father who has over four decades of professional experience. Since then, Lex has honed his craft into an art form and has garnered national and international recognition from various outlets, including Boston Magazine’s Best of Boston, The Boston Globe, The Kelly Clarkson Show, BarberEVO Magazine, The Source Magazine, and others. 

He has always envisioned creating a space where clients can experience unparalleled service and luxury in an open, welcoming environment.

Charles River Chamber Hosting Business After Hours Event in Watertown

The Charles River Chamber of Commerce announced it will host Business After Hours at Olespana in Watertown. The event is free to members and future members. Join us for an evening of networking and celebration at the newly renovated and reopened Olespana Whiskey & Tapas in Watertown. Be among the first to experience their refreshed space while connecting with fellow professionals ina relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Guests will enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, featuring some of Olespana’s signature Spanish flavors (Cash bar.)

Whether you’re looking to grow your network, reconnect with colleagues, or simply enjoy great food and conversation, this is the perfect opportunity.

Watertown-Based MORE Advertising Agency Sold

The following announcement was provided by MORE Advertising:

MORE Advertising, an integrated marketing communications agency recognized for its behavior change and cause-driven campaigns, announced the sale of the company by Founder and CEO Donna Latson Gittens and Managing Partner and President Judi Haber to two of the firm’s senior leaders: Principal of Account Services Megan Palamé and CFO Beth LePage. Palamé is assuming the role of CEO and LePage will serve as COO & CFO. Palamé and LePage have each been instrumental in shaping MORE’s strategy, growth and campaign successes. Selling the agency internally ensures a seamless transition with intact account, creative and operational teams and continuity of key relationships. “As we reflect on the agency’s history and growth, we take immense pride in how our work has advanced important social causes,” said Gittens. “We have always sought to create campaigns that make a meaningful difference by challenging the status quo, empowering communities and helping to encourage positive behavior change.”

MORE has developed and launched campaigns addressing substance use stigma and vaping harms, as well as promoting the use of HIV/AIDS preventive medications and trusted sexual and reproductive health services. The agency secured its largest accounts to date when it was selected to create and lead campaigns for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to promote adoption of the COVID-19 vaccine.