CHAMBER OLD SAYBROOK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FEBRUARY EVENTS Feb. 3. 12—1:30 pm Brown Bag Lunch Series: Twitter 101 @ The Pavilion at Saybrook Point Feb. 11. 11:30am - 1pm Women in Business @ Saybrook Point Inn Feb. 12. 5:30pm - 7pm Chamber Connections @ The Children’s Tree Montessori School Feb. 18. 8 - 9am Monthly Membership Mtg @ Apple Rehab Feb. 24. 6-8pm Young Professionals Group @ Chamard Vineyards Feb. 28. Noon—3pm Chili-Fest - Main Street
19th Annual ChiliChili-Fest Sat. February 28 ~ Noon - 3pm The 19th Annual ChiliFest comes to Main Street, Old Saybrook on Saturday, February 28th and is shaping up to be another fierce yet friendly competition! Newcomer Octagon Restaurant took first place last year but has been put on notice to expect strong challenges from 2nd place winner, The Monkey Farm and perennial favorite, Saybrook Hardware. This community wide event is sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce and presented by Guilford Savings Bank. Thirty chefs--representing restaurants, businesses, and non-profits--will compete
BROWN BAG LUNCH SERIES Join us the first Tuesday of the month for an informative lunchtime series on social media related topics.
“TWITTER 101”
Check our website: oldsaybrookchamber.com 860 388-3266 1 Main Street P.O. Box 625 Old Saybrook, CT 06475
FEBRUARY 2015
With Julia Balfour Julia Balfour Design Feb 3rd 12—1:30pm The Pavilion at Saybrook Point Members: free. Non-members: $10 Online registrations requested.
for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, and will earn a donation to the charity of their choice, not to mention bragging rights for the entire year for “Best Chili!” Proceeds from this event help fund the C.W. Hunter Scholarship for local graduating high school students. Last year six scholarships were awarded. Ballots are $10 per person and may be purchased at the Chamber office or at any of the six ballot stations along Main Street. PRESENTED
BY
IMPORTANT NOTICE Beginning in April 2015, the ChamberNews will no longer be printed and mailed to the membership unless you opt-in to receive it via United States Postal Service. We’ll continue to publish the newsletter monthly, email to members and post online. This change is being made in an effort to lower costs and reduce environmental impact. If you want to receive a hard copy of the ChamberNews, but haven’t already contacted us, please contact us and we will continue to mail your newsletter.
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19th Annual ChiliChili-Fest Saturday, February 28 Noon - 3pm
PRESENTED
BY
Saturday February 28th @ the 19th Annual Chili-Fest You could be part of the elite Chili crew to help to set up, sell ballots, deliver supplies to the Chili tasting stations, be the 2015 Chili mascot (costume provided), collect the ballot entries or help with clean up. If you have an hour or two early in the day or later in the afternoon we have a job for you...just ask! Contact the office at 860 388-3266 or
[email protected]
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 Bill McMinn, Essex Printing/Events Magazine Shannon Timme, Harbor News Bob Bradley, Guaranteed Rate Ken Gribbon, Saybrook Point Inn & Spa Linda Brophy, Edward Jones Mark Appellof, Visiting Nurses of Lower Valley & Lower Valley Care Advocates Leigh-Bette Maynard, Liberty Bank Leland McKenna, Middlesex Hospital Primary Care
Mission Statement Through valuable programs and services for its members and community involvement, the Chamber improves the economic vitality and quality of life in Old Saybrook and its surrounding communities.
Staff
Judy Sullivan, Executive Director Karen Pinette, Member Services Manager Meryl Moskowitz, Marketing Coordinator
Contact
www.oldsaybookchamber.com Phone: 860 388-3266 Fax: 860 388-9433
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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Cedar Chest III Nancy Briggs 907 Boston Post Road, Old Saybrook (860) 669-9485 www.thecedarchestresale.com Re-Sale clothing, furniture and housewares Sissy Stinson Property Management Sissy Stinson Westbrook (860) 308-4756 Household/Estate/Property Manager Doodleshop Elizabeth Garcia Old Saybrook (860) 304-8981 Offering handmade greeting cards for every occasion
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Rackliffe Lock & Safe Rick Bayuk 24 West Main Street, Suite 315, Clinton (860) 388-1810 www.rackliffelock.com Full service and mobile locksmith Paulson Training Programs Larry Mercugliano 3 Inspiration Lane, Chester (860) 388-3736 www.paulsontraining.com Plastics, injection molding and training Genie Maids, LLC Kevin Noonan 34 Horsepond Road, Madison (203) 245-4591 www.geniemaids.com Residential and Commercial Cleaning Company
LEGISLATIVE FORUM JANUARY 15, 2015 The Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce hosted a legislative forum in January with State Senator Art Linares and State Representative Devin Carney. The event was generously sponsored by Saybrook Point Inn & Spa. This informal discussion was a great opportunity for Chamber members and guests to learn about some of the issues our legislators are working on and issues that they really care about. Rep. Carney
addressed transportation concerns and the need to attract manufacturing to the state and area. Senator Linares spoke about tourism and his drive to have Old Saybrook included in the Still Revolutionary Campaign and boosting awareness of Old Saybrook and the lower valley as a destination. Watch for our Spring Forum when our legislators return to give us a recap.
Sponsored by
Left Photo: State Representative Devin Carney, State Senator Art Linares, Ken Gribbon, Saybrook Point Inn and Chamber Board Member. Right photo: Chamber President Lori Woll with Senator Linares. Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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Board News and Interesting Facts LINDA BROPHY, LIMITED PARTNER AT EDWARD JONES Linda F Brophy, an Edward Jones financial advisor in Old Saybrook has accepted an invitation to become a limited partner in The Jones Financial Cos., the holding company for the St. Louis-based financial services firm. Edward Jones currently employs nearly 40,000 associates in all 50 states and through its affiliate in Canada. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the firm's first partnership offering - and today Edward Jones has expanded the partnership to more than 20,000 limited partners.
"I am honored to be invited to become a limited partner in the firm," said Linda. "I enjoy working for Edward Jones, and I am very proud of the way we do business and the way we treat our clients." Linda is a Board member of the Chamber of Commerce and is instrumental in the creation of the Women In Business Council, a forum for women professionals. Linda continues to volunteer her time and expertise at the Chamber, whether on the front lines of the Arts & Crafts Festival or behind the scenes at other events. Congratulations Linda!
Interesting Facts
Early in January every year, the Board of Directors meet to review the upcoming year’s events and budget, determine their Committee assignments and get to know each another. This year each Board member provided a fun/interesting fact about themselves to share with the group. Each fact was put on a sheet of paper, the Board pulled a fact from the basket and tried to match the fact to the right person. As you can imagine there were a lot of laughs, a lot of wrong guesses but after some time it was all sorted out! Why not share in the fun and find out something interesting about the Board? We also thought we’d make it a bit competitive with a prize of $25 in Chamber dollars for the first member who gets 8 correct answers! Try to match the right fun fact to the following: Lori Woll, Ed Lombardi, Jay Mills, Angus McDonald, Shannon Timme, Bob Bradley, Ken Gribbon, Linda Brophy, Mark Appellof, Leigh-Bette Maynard and Leland McKenna. Check out the facts listed and send your guess to
[email protected] PS: Board members ineligible!
•I went to the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway and was in the arena when Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding skated to a world record TV audience. •I was the Cross Country Ski Team coach for the Bennington, Vermont area chapter of Special Olympics. •When I was little, I had as many G.I. Joes and accessories I could get my hands on. •We have a baby on the way… due February 9th! •I have met and had conversations/drinks with Richie Blackmore (Deep Purple), Glenn Frye (Eagles) and Eric Clapton. •I was the music director/pianist at an off off Broadway theater. •The average life expectancy in my family tree dating back to the 19th century is 91 years old. •I went skiing in the Swiss Alps. •I ran a blood drive for 4 years, was a Girl Scout Leader for 4 - and despite being first aid certified, I get faint at the sight of blood. •I am one of 7 children – I have 5 sisters and 1 brother. My parents moved from New York to Texas to Minnesota to New York to Ohio and to Connecticut. I have no desire to jump out of an airplane. •I taught Art Classes at a private elementary school.
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 A special thanks to Senator Art Linares and Representative Devin Carney for sharing their time with Chamber members on January 16th at Saybrook Point Inn. The session was very informative and many of questions were answered. Both legislators shared their committee assignments, legislative issues facing businesses and what they hope to achieve this legislative session. Topics included the business entity tax, occupancy tax, balancing the budget, transportation infrastructure and DEEP requirements to name a few. Both Senator Linares and Representative Carney encouraged members to reach out to them with any questions/ comments/concerns. They will be back in the Spring to speak on the results of the 2015 Legislative Session. Thank you to Saybrook Point Inn for their generous hospitality as always.
the 3rd Wednesday of the month – 8am to 9am – at Apple Rehab Saybrook. Members promote their business and share testimonials. Today the group learned about many collaborative efforts within the community. Did you know that Grossman Chevrolet/Nissan has partnered with Tractor Supply to bring in local business? Did you know that Vista Vocational & Life Skills Center is partnering with the Ivoryton Playhouse to produce the Wizard of Oz? Did you know SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) can help you with a business plan regardless of the status or age of your business? We have a wealth of opportunities for you to learn about – join us! Wednesday February 18th – 8am-9am – hosted by Apple Rehab Saybrook. It’s cold outside – but it’s HOT at the Chamber! I hope to see you at our 19th Annual Chili-Fest – Saturday February 28, 2015 – Noon – 3pm on Main Street. Proceeds benefit the C. Wilfred Hunter Memorial Scholarship. Will Hunter was the Executive Director of the Chamber in the 1990’s and a legendary lacrosse coach. It’s a wonderful tribute to be able to award young people scholarships in his honor. I’m always amazed by those who have worked at the Chamber before me and I’m proud to be carrying the torch today.
Members, Alicia Farrell, Clearview Consulting, and Marie Mozzi, Get Real with Marie, spoke to our Women In Business Council on January 14th about how to stay mentally and physically fit. It was a luncheon not to be missed! On February 11, Liz Dederer will be presenting “Designing a Winning Team that Pays for Itself.” Please contact the office if you’d like to attend. The Women In Business Luncheon Series is held the 2nd We have so much to offer you and your business. Why Wednesday of the month and generously presented by not take advantage of these opportunities? Webster Bank. I hope to see you soon – and Happy Valentine’s Day! Have you attended a Monthly Membership Meeting yet? What are you waiting for! The meetings are held Judy
Women in Business Luncheon Series "Designing A Winning Team That Pays For Itself" Liz Dederer will transform the way you view, manage and grow your teams so you’re managing less, and profiting more! Learn how to hire productive employees, how to create a team that will meet and exceed your high standards, and three easy-to-implement strategies to bring the joy back into your business, and much more. Join us for an informative conversation with Liz.
Wednesday, Feb. 11 11:30am – 1pm Saybrook Point Inn & Spa 2 Bridge St, Old Saybrook Members $25.00 Non-Members $35.00 Registration and pre-payment required.
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
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Member News “Your Old Saybrook AT&T/Get Wireless Now store is moving from its current address (next to Starbucks). In early February we will be located at 80 Main Street (to the left of Liberty Bank). Please stop by and visit us in our beautiful new state-of-the-art experience store with plentiful parking where we will continue to offer all the latest wireless technology (phones, tablets, accessories, Digital Life in-home services, etc). We are extremely excited to serve you as proud Chamber members in this wonderful new 'in-town' Old Saybrook location!” Hunt and Carol Newton
Do you have news to share?
Alyssa Cohen was recently Maybe you’ve moved to a new locapromoted to Director of Adtion, hired a new employee, or you missions at Gladeview need to increase staff, maybe you or Rehabilitation and Health one of your employees received a commendation. Care Center. Whatever it is, send us an email and space permitCongratulations Alyssa!
ting, we’ll get it in the next newsletter.
Member Spotlight
Chris Dubord Owner, One Look Sign Company 17 Industrial Park Road, Centerbrook, CT onelooksigns.com Being a small business owner I wear multiple hats, so I’d say my primary responsibility is to manage and grow the business, as well as provide a good working environment for my employees. The thing I like most about my job is delivering a product that exceeds the clients expectations. It’s a great feeling knowing your customer is excited about the job you did. One of my favorite Chamber events, which is coming up end of February, is the Chili Festival. It is a great time tasting and voting on some very good chilis. In addition, the money raised benefits the C.W. Hunter Scholarship Fund. In 2014, the Chamber awarded six $1,000 scholarships to local high school graduating students. What a great thing to be able to do!
One of my interests outside of work is the martial arts. I have been studying and teaching an Okinawan style of karate called Gojuryu for almost 30 years. It keeps me in shape and is a great way to reduce stress. I believe success is the result of listening to your clients and paying attention to details.
The Chamber member featured in our Member spotlight is randomly selected at our Monthly Membership Meeting. Our next meeting is February 18th, 8am at Apple Rehab Saybrook! Register online or call 860 388-3266.
Chamber News Editor Judy Sullivan © February 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 Essex Savings Bank AWESOME LOAN RATES
Visiting Nurses of Lower Valley
@ essexsavings.com
MEMBER FDIC
860-767-4414 • Toll Free 877-377-3922
Chamber Connections - February 12 - The Children’s Tree Montessori Chamber Connections are a great way to meet fellow members and share ideas. Join us at The Children’s Tree Montessori School on Thursday, Feb 12th from 5:30 - 7pm at 96 Essex Rd, Old Saybrook $10 Pre-registered Members - $15 Members at the door $20 Non-Members Register online @ www.oldsaybrookchamber.com or email
[email protected]
2015 Chamber Connections Jan 29
Madison Avenue East
Feb 12
Children’s Tree Montessori
Mar 26
Penny Lane Pub
Apr 9
Get Wireless Now
Apr 23
Deacon Timothy Pratt cohosted by Seaside Wine and Spirits
May 7
Estuary Council of Seniors
May 28
Essence Beauty & Wellness
Jun 25
High Hopes Therapeutic Riding
Sept 3
Florence Griswold Museum
Sept 24
The Tea Kettle Restaurant cohosted by
2015 CHAMBER CONNECTIONS PASSPORT! Get Your “PASSPORT” for just $90! Don’t miss out on this limited offer. This is your opportunity to pre-pay your admission fees for the 2015 Chamber Connections . Admission is now $10 for pre-registered members, $15 for members at the door & $20 for non-members. Purchase online or call the office by February 6. Get 12 Chamber Connections for the price of 9; save $30!
Some Chamber Members “Connecting” in 2014... Tyson Nolf, Chris Eaton, Mike Duffy and Caitlyn Nuhn at Saybrook Country Barn
Impressive Catering Oct 15
Harris Outdoors cohosted by Chalk Mercantile
Nov 12
Spectrum Art Center cohosted by Visiting Nurses of the Lower Valley and Lower Valley Card Advocates
Gregg Fedus, Tim Londregan and Herb Wieland at Luigi’s Restaurant
Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce, PO Box 625, Old Saybrook, CT 06475 860-388-3266 www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT 19 OLD SAYBROOK, CT
FEBRUARY 2015 Phone 860-388-3266 • www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS •Tues. Feb 3 - Twitter 101, 12-1:30pm •Wed Feb 11 - Women in Business, 11:30-1pm •Thur Feb 12 - Chamber Connections, 5:30-7pm •Wed Feb 18 - Monthly Membership Mtg, 8am •Tues Feb 24 - Young Professionals Group 6-8pm •Sat Feb 28 - Chili-Fest, 12 - 3pm Visit website for details: www.oldsaybrookchamber.com
Thank you to our February newsletter sponsor Mike’s Quality Meats and Fine Deli
