CHAMBER OLD SAYBROOK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NOVEMBER EVENTS Nov 11: Women In Business Evening at Chamard Vineyards Nov 18: Business Connections Hour Nov 19: Chamber Connections @ Spectrum Art Gallery + Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley/Lower Valley Care Advocates
SAVE THE DATE Friday, Dec. 4 Winter Stroll Tuesday, December 8th Annual Meeting, Silent Auction and Awards @ Saybrook Point Inn
2015 Annual Meeting, Silent Auction and Awards Presentation Tuesday, December 8, 2015 ~ 6:00 - 9:00pm Each year, the Chamber gathers to celebrate our membership, recognize outstanding businesses and individuals and come together to kick-off the holiday season. We invite you to join us at the Saybrook Point Inn on Tuesday, December 8th from 6 - 9 pm. Our 2015 Annual Meeting, Silent Auction and Awards Presentation is generously sponsored by Comcast Business and Guilford Savings Bank. Beginning at 6pm, the Annual Business Meeting will convene and new Board Members will be seated. Food Stations, silent auction and cocktails to follow! Make your reservations today—$50/pp!
AWARD NOMINATIONS
AUCTION ITEMS
Nominations are now being accepted for annual award nominees. Categories include:
Please consider supporting the Chamber by donating an item for the silent auction. Suggested items include: gift cards, merchandise, hotel stays, artwork, sporting events, salon and spa packages. Silent auction items will be accepted until Friday, 12/4/2015. We appreciate your ongoing support.
- Business of the Year - Non-Profit of the Year - Volunteer of the Year Submit your nominations by 11/30/2015 to
[email protected] or download the form from our website.
Winter
Visit our website: oldsaybrookchamber.com 860 388-3266 1 Main Street P.O. Box 625 Old Saybrook, CT 06475
November 2015
Stroll
2015
You are cordially invited to participate and/or sponsor this long-standing holiday tradition. We encourage you to open your business, provide activities, treats, music, December 4, 2015 | 5:30 - 8pm specials or whatever works best for you! We’ll be printing a Cost to participate is $25 Winter Stroll program Register by Friday, November 13th outlining the activities, Complete the form included with the acknowledging our newsletter, call the Chamber office at sponsors and including 860 388-3266 or online at a map of the particiwww.oldsaybrookchamber.com pating businesses.
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INTRODUCING $ayBucks: OUR NEW LOCAL DOLLARS PROGRAM $ayBucks
is the newly redesigned shop local currency replacing Chamber Dollars. The Chamber launched a redesign contest this past summer to solicit entries, with the over arching guideline of incorporating the essence of our community. We are so pleased to announce that after careful review, first place was awarded to Natalie Banker, a freelance illustrator who resides in East Haddam. Natalie is the daughter of Chamber members Dave & Nancy Cardone, owners of Cardone & Daughter Automotive. Natalie
worked in the family business for many years while also pursuing an art degree from Paier College of Art. In addition to illustration, Natalie teaches art at a middle school after school program and enjoys web site design as well. Natalie was recognized and rewarded for her design at the Business Expo on October 29th.
Board of Directors, Staff and Mission Statement Officers President: Lori Woll, Octagon @ Mystic Marriott Vice President: Ed Lombardi, Maximus Antiques Treasurer: Jay Mills, Oakley Wing Group Secretary: Elaine Beame, Beame Realty Past President: Kristen Roberts, Comcast
Directors Angus McDonald, Angus McDonald/Gary Sharpe & Assoc Bill McMinn, Essex Printing/Events Magazine Shannon Timme, Harbor News/Shore Publishing Bob Bradley, Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc. Linda Brophy, Edward Jones Marlee Santoro, MAR.Floral & Botanical Mark Appellof, Visiting Nurses of Lower Valley and Lower Valley Care Advocates Leigh-Bette Maynard, Liberty Bank Leland McKenna, Middlesex Hospital Primary Care
Staff Judy Sullivan, Executive Director Karen Pinette, Member Services Manager Meryl Moskowitz, Marketing Coordinator
Mission Statement The Chamber advances economic vitality and quality of life in the Old Saybrook region through programs and services for its members and community. Contact www.oldsaybookchamber.com Phone: 860 388-3266
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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PhotoMigo Meryl Moskowitz Old Saybrook (860) 876-3138 Photomigo.net Clockwork Law Elizabeth Ragavanis 760 Chapel Street, New Haven, 06510 (646) 893-9605 clockworklaw.com Providing cost-effective, personalized legal services to emerging businesses and tech start-ups The Kariann Kariann Price 15 A Main Street, Old Saybrook (860) 879-5304 seaglassjewelryinoldsaybrookct.com Sea glass, art and vintage jewelry boutique There’s No Place Like Home Martha Kelly Chester 06412 (860) 304-0940
The instantly social, open air photo booth for all life’s events: weddings, mitzvahs, galas, proms, corporate events and more TGI office Automation Blase Picone 4 Research Drive, Shelton, 06484 (203) 242-3014 tgioa.com Celebrating 50 years as copier, printer and solutions provider. Services now available in Connecticut Elder Life Care Planning, LLC Elena Goggin 67 West Main Street, Building 1, Suite 112 Clinton, 06413 (860) 664-5695 gogginandassociatesllc.com Life care planning services for elders, care coordination & advocacy
Pet sitting and animal care for all breeds of dogs, cats & other critters. Feeding, walking, bellyrubs & overnights
WOM E N I N BU S IN E S S P R E S E N TS
A N E V E N I N G AT C H A M A R D V I N E YA R D S Wednesday, November 11 ~ 5:30—7:30pm 115 Cow Hill Road, Clinton $25 members/ $35 non-members
Wine Tasting & More Join us for a festive evening of wine tasting and wine education at the lovely Chamard Vineyards. Bring your business cards and meet with other area business women. Register online or call the Chamber office. Pre-registration and pre-payment required. Notice must be given at least 2 business days prior to the event. No shows or those unable to cancel in time will be billed. Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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Member News Louisa Ketron, Realtor BHHS The Southeastern CT Women’s Network named Louisa Ketron “Woman of the Year” at a September meeting. Her accomplishments in volunteerism and fundraising were cited, as well as her involvement in community politics and other organizations. Louisa is a realtor with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services New England Properties in Essex. Small Business Development Center Opens Westbrook Office Jim Jackson, business advisor for the new Small Business Development Center has opened a satellite office in Westbrook’s Mulvey Municipal Center. The organization provides one-on-one advising services for small businesses, at no charge to the client. To set up a meeting call Jim at (860) 341-6924 x249. Website: ctsbdc.com Health Insurance Center LLC opens Main Street Old Saybrook Office Charlie McSorley of Health Insurance Center LLC is now located at 45 Main Street Old Saybrook. Charlie’s firm is a full service insurance agency.
Harris Outdoors and Saybrook Soup & Sandwich Featured in Ink Magazine Open the pages of the October Ink magazine and treat yourself to two inspiring stories about two very special Old Saybrook businesses. Did you know Harris Outdoors started out in the duck decoy business? Did you know Chef Dave Saunders and Sous Chef Alex Leigh are culinary experts with vast experience in fine food and catering? Check it out! Coastal Connecticut Magazine Newsstand Distribution Deal
Signs
Major
Coastal Connecticut magazine and its parent company, Post Road Media, have signed a major newsstand circulation deal that now places the magazine on premium newsstands from New York to Hartford to Boston and increases its presence in luxury resorts & other desirable sites. The publication will now be sold in retail locations including Barnes & Noble, Hudson News, and a diverse selection of mainstream outlets. The magazine is also pleased to announce its partnership with Aspire Media Marketing of Southport. With this agreement, Coastal Connecticut will distribute over 33,000 print copies per issue. Send us your news and we’ll print it in the next newsletter (space permitting).
In Memoriam Bernie Rosenblatt
Arlene Mazzotta
Bernie Rosenblatt, Chamber past president, and his wife, Millie passed away on Wednesday, October 7, 2015 at CT Hospice. Bernie was a strong supporter of the Old Saybrook Chamber. He served as Old Saybrook Chamber President in the early '90s and was the owner of Bernie's Watch and Jewelry, a family business he operated for nearly 40 years. He loved his customers and the Old Saybrook community. We extend our condolences to the Rosenblatt family.
Arlene Mazzotta of Middletown, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, September 29th at Hartford Hospital. She opened her own business, A R Mazzotta Employment Specialists, in 1983 in Middletown. She then opened a satellite office in Westbrook in the mid-80s and became a OSCC member. She was savvy businesswoman and always gave back to the community. Arlene was a loyal member of the Old Saybrook Chamber. Our thoughts are with the Mazzotta family and staff.
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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From the Desk of the Executive Director Chamber Dollars is getting a facelift! Congratulations to Natalie Banker, daughter of David and Nancy Cardone, Cardone & Daughter Automotive, for winning the “Make Some Money” competition to design Old Saybrook $ayBucks currency. $ayBucks are purchased at the Chamber office and redeemable at participating chamber members. If you do not currently participate in our community dollars program, what are you waiting for? They may not be the Emmy or Academy awards but every year we are proud to present Business of the Year, Non-Profit of the Year, and Volunteer of the Year to well-deserving members of the Chamber who embody the spirit of entrepreneurship, community and our Chamber. It’s time to get your nominations in! These awards will be presented at our Annual Meeting & Silent Auction event on Tuesday December 8th at Saybrook Point Inn. Mark your calendars – it’s an event you won’t want to miss.
Vivere la Toscana! (Enjoy Tuscany!) We’ll be sending off our 33 travelers to Tuscany on November 3rd. We are anxious to see the photos and hear all the great stores upon their return. A special thank you to Len DiBella and his staff at Luigi’s for hosting a gathering for all travelers on October 1st. Representatives from Chamber Discoveries were there presenting last minute details and answering any and all questions. Where should we travel to in 2016? Check that pile on your desk! Is your Renewal Notice in it? Now’s the time to send it in! Thanks to all who have already renewed - your continued support is greatly appreciated. November always brings thoughts of Thanksgiving and thankfulness. I am very grateful for exceptional volunteers, a staff that goes above and beyond every day, and the opportunity to work in a vibrant chamber community that continually amazes me with outstanding people, businesses and organizations.
Happy Thanksgiving,
Judy 1st Annual Scarecrow Contest The response has been overwhelming as sixty two scarecrows were entered into the 1st annual Old Saybrook Scarecrow Contest! Residents commented how the scarecrows competition seemed to strengthen the community feel of the town, while visitors remarked how much they enjoyed strolling the streets and appreciating the creativity on display! Thank you to all participants, and to Zip06 for making the online voting a breeze! Visit our website to find out who the winners are. Below left to right entries from AT&T/Get Wireless, Monkey Farm and St. John School.
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY IS NOVEMBER 28TH S M A L L BU S I N E S S N E E D N OT THINK SMALL As a business consultant the first obstacle I encounter with a majority of clients is the phrase, “We’re just a small business.” Think small, speak small. Speak small, be small. I don’t know about you buy my ‘small business’ with just two employees is pretty big to me and even bigger to my clients when they contract with me. Imagine this conversation on an airplane with me when a seatmate asks, “What do you do?” If I answer, “We’re just a small consulting firm” it’s an invitation for them to return to their magazine. If I answer, “I own and operate a large consulting firm,” it peaks their interest. When they inquire for more information, I explain what large means to me and my clients. I seldom leave an
airplane without leaving my business card with an appointment to call later. We may have a small footprint in this big world but in our world, everything we do is big. The jobs we provide as ‘small businesses’ are huge to the people that fill them. The products and services we offer are equally big to the customers we sell to, otherwise they wouldn’t be dealing with us. In other words, it’s all big and we should act like it in our conversations with our customers, our employees and when we talk to ourselves in the mirror; we are the biggest and best in the world, our world. Excerpted from “The Problem with Small Business” by Patrick H. McGaughey, CPF, an international business speaker and certified professional facilitator. www.ChamberMentor.com
Find Small Business Saturday resources at www.americanexpress.com/us/small-business/shop-small
The first-ever Small Business Saturday took place November 2010 and has become a tradition across the country encouraging shoppers to support
November 3rd is Election Day! District 1 at Middle School. District 2 at High School.
Chamber News Editor Judy Sullivan © November 2015, Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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Newsletter Business Card Sponsors Lee Bridgewater Lighthouse Home Care
2ND ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Essex Savings Bank
CHAMBER CONNECTIONS
On October 5th the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce held its 2nd Annual Golf Outing at the private course at Lake of Isles Foxwoods. Golfers were treated to lunch, dinner, prizes, and of course 18 holes of golf on one of the best golf c o u r s e s i n C o n n e c t i c u t . Thank you to the over 80 golfers and sponsors who made the event such a success this year. Winning Team: Hayden Reynolds, Matt Walton, Tom Reynolds and Alen Edwards. 2nd Place Team: George Paradise, Gary Banack, Jeff Hall and Jason Hunter. Closest to the Pin: Sponsored by Grossman Chevrolet/Nissan: Matt Walton and Carol Dahlke. Long Drive: Sponsored by Coastal CT Magazine: Nate Bussie and Darlene Briggs. A very special thank you to all our Sponsors and Golfers! We look forward to seeing you all next year!
Chamber Connections October 15 at Chalk Mercantile & Harris Outdoors. (Top photo L-R) Rich Bachand, Tarlov Financial; Joan Michaud, Thompson & Peck; and Bill McLaughlin of OS Historical Society. Chalk Mercantile & Harris Outdoors located at 891 & 889 Boston Post Road.
Golf Tournament Chair Leland McKenna, Middlesex Hospital Primary Care & Executive Director Judy Sullivan, getting ready to tee off at our 2nd Annual Golf Tournament!
Chamber Connections September 24 hosted by David Ciastko, owner of The Tea Kettle Restaurant and Impressive Catering. Attendees were definitely impressed by Chef David’s culinary delights! The Tea Kettle Restaurant is at 1395 Boston Post Road.
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
November 2015
Phone 860-388-3266 • www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS • Wed Nov 11 - Women in Business Evening @ Chamard Vineyards, 5:30—7:30pm •
Wed, Nov 18— Business Connections Hour, 8 - 9am
•
Thurs, Nov. 19—Chamber Connections, 5:30 - 7pm
Visit website for details: www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
Thank you to our 2015 Golf Tournament Sponsors 94.9 WJJF News Talk Radio Appleby Plumbing Bridgepoint Mortgage Aetna / Chamber Insurance Trust Cloutier and Cassella Coastal CT Magazine Dzialo, Pickett & Allen, P.C. Edward Jones Essex Printing / Events Magazine Grossman Chevrolet/Nissan Middlesex Hospital Primary Care Middlesex Hospital Urgent Care New Haven Register / Shoreline Times One Look Sign Company Pavement Protectors PowerPay VW of Old Saybrook
November 2015 ChamberNews
