Saugus Business Partnership

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is doing its part to attract new business to the state while helping existing businesses grow, according to remarks made by Renee Fry, Undersecretary of Economic Development and Director of Business and Technology for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, guest speaker at the recent quarterly meeting of the Saugus Business Partnership (SBP). Her remarks touched upon the economic outlook for the Commonwealth, as well as her responsibilities as both Undersecretary and as Director of Business and Technology, the latter encompassing the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism, Massachusetts Office of International Trade & Investment, State Office of Minority and Women Business Assistance, Massachusetts Office of Business Development and the Office of Small Business and Entrepreneurship.

Prior to Undersecretary Fry's remarks, SBP President Donald Wong welcomed the attendees and spoke about the partnership between business and the community, noting that the SBP has accomplished a great deal in less that three years. He cited the financial contributions of more than $60,000 SBP has made to Saugus organizations, individuals and groups as part of the organization’s overall mission to improve and enhance the quality of life in Saugus for residents and the business community.

Among the examples he cited were contributions to Saugus High School athletic programs and support for several organizations throughout the community, including the Saugus Library Foundation and Saugus Speaks Out.

Businesses that care can, and do, make a difference, Donald Wong noted. I am proud that each member of the Saugus Business Partnership makes a contribution to the community in his or her own way.

Renee Fry, third from right, Undersecretary of Economic Development and Director of Business and Technology for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, was the guest speaker at the recent meeting of the Saugus Business Partnership (SBP). Among those who welcomed the Undersecretary to the meeting were (from left to right) John Smolinsky, SBP Treasurer; Frank Valeri, aide to State Senator Thomas M. McGee; Andrew R. Bisignani, Saugus Town Manager; Mike Kelleher, Saugus Selectman; and Donald Wong, SBP President.

State Representative Mark Falzone was at the meeting to extend his thanks to SBP for its contributions to the residents of Saugus and for the leadership role the members have taken in the community. He cited specific examples; including the SBP's support of the Saugus Speaks Out drug awareness program for parents and students, and the support for the Saugus Public Library at events like the annual wine tasting. Representative Falzone also presented a citation in recognition of the 55^th anniversary of the Kowloon Restaurant to Donald Wong from the House of Representatives and Senate.

The guest speaker who noted that the SBP, like her department, is doing its part to help local business also echoed the congratulatory remarks. As a member of Governor Romney's cabinet, Undersecretary Fry ensures that state offices provide the business community with services and support, and most recently, her office led the creation of the Business Resource Team to provide one-stop shopping for businesses to access state services.

I welcome the opportunity to meet with representatives from the business community and with organizations like the Saugus Business Partnership, she noted. The dialogue generated at these meetings is important in getting a feel for what businesses need and expect from the Commonwealth.

Founded in 2003 by four local business leaders, the Saugus Business Partnership (SBP) was created to improve and enhance the quality of life in Saugus. The SBP works to keep local programs up and running, and is committed to research, analyze and develop policy on issues affecting the economy in Saugus.