Side Street to Main Street Minority Business “Know-How” Program Celebrates 2025 Graduates During Completion Ceremony

(Middletown, CT.) Pamela Steele, Chairwoman of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced the completion of the 2025 Side Street to Main Street Minority Business “Know-How” Program. A virtual completion ceremony was held on Tuesday, July 8th wrapping up 14 successful years of an intensive four-session Entrepreneurial Program which provides practical knowledge for starting and building a small business in Middlesex County and surrounding areas within the Eversource Energy footprint. Program graduates were congratulated by Theresa Hopkins-Staten, President, Eversource Foundation, VP Corporate Citizenship & Equity, Gene Nocera, Mayor, City of Middletown, and Faith Jackson, Director, Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management & Veterans Service Contact Representative.

Business “Know-How” is targeted and designed specifically to assist people who have not had formal business training to develop the attitudes, skills, and qualities necessary for business ownership and success. Fully funded by a generous grant from Eversource Energy and designed as a companion to the Chamber’s award-winning Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program, Business “Know-How” is a preparatory companion course which also offers a bridge for business owners hoping to participate in the Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program. Participants in the Business “Know-How” Program learn a variety of business-related skills from both the program’s expert facilitator/ instructor and through classroom group discussions of the homework assignments.

Middlesex Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “A big thanks to Eversource Energy for their continued support and generous funding of the Side Street to Main Street Minority Business “Know-How” Program.”

Since the first class started in 2012, 172 people have successfully graduated from the Side Street to Main Street Minority Business “Know-How” Program.

To participate in next year’s 2026 Side Street to Main Street Minority Business “Know-How” Program, contact Jennifer by emailing Jennifer@middlesexchamber.com.

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce now accepting nominations for the William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award

(Middletown, CT). The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Support the Troops Committee is now accepting nominations for its annual William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award to be presented at the 2025 Support the Troops and Honor the Veterans Breakfast Meeting on Monday, November 3, 2025 at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel in Rocky Hill. This year’s keynote speaker will be Major General Francis J. Evon, Jr., Adjutant General, Connecticut National Guard.

The William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award is presented annually at the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Support the Troops & Honor the Veterans Member Breakfast Meeting, the William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award honors a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces for distinguished service to the citizens of Connecticut and a demonstrated commitment to public service. The recipient is selected by a committee comprised of previous award winners.

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for the award:

• Reside or work in one of the following Middlesex County towns: Chester, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Portland, Rocky Hill, or Westbrook.
• Have served in a branch of the United States Armed Forces and continue to advocate for Veterans Affairs.
• Be actively involved in local and/or state community organizations or initiatives.

Nominations must be received at the Chamber Office by FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2025 AT 4:30 PM.

To download nomination form, visit: https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/1932/File/Pomfret-Award-Nomination-Form-2025.pdf

Please send all nominations to:

Danielle Aletta

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

393 Main Street

Middletown, CT 06457

Questions or concerns can be directed to Danielle Aletta at 860-347-6924 or danielle@middlesexchamber.com

Middlesex Chamber of Commerce Manufacturing Council Hosts Dynamic Networking Event to Celebrate Innovation and Collaboration in Manufacturing

(Middletown, CT.) The Middlesex County manufacturing community gathered for a vibrant and inspiring Networking Event hosted by the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Manufacturing Council. Held at CT State Community College Middlesex, the event brought together business leaders, educators, workforce partners, and policymakers to celebrate the strength, innovation, and future of manufacturing in the region.

Chris Dimou, President of Roto Frank Group – The Americas and Chairman of the Manufacturing Council, opened the event with a warm welcome and remarks emphasizing the importance of collaboration in advancing Connecticut’s manufacturing sector.

“Today is about connection, collaboration, and celebrating the strength and innovation of our manufacturing community here in Middlesex County,” said Dimou. “Your presence here reflects a shared commitment to advancing manufacturing in Connecticut.”

Dimou also recognized the Council’s Steering Committee for their leadership and dedication:

• Dave Parmelee, Wepco Plastics
• Alison Carey Lynch, Carey Manufacturing
• Ron Bodeau, Sound View Plastics
• Brian Weinstein, Chapco
• Chris Cambareri, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

The event featured a keynote address by Paul Lavoie, Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer, who shared valuable insights into the future of manufacturing in the state. He outlined Connecticut’s Manufacturing Strategic Plan, which sets a clear path toward achieving ambitious goals by 2030. The plan focuses on four key objectives: developing talent, building sustainable companies, driving innovation, and fostering collaboration both within and beyond the sector.

Attendees also heard from Kim Hogan, CEO of CT State Community College Middlesex, who provided updates from the college and reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to workforce development.

Another highlight of the event was the presentation of the Career Awareness and Skill Up Manufacturing Training Program, led by Dave Parmelee. This initiative is playing a critical role in shaping the next generation of skilled talent and strengthening the local workforce pipeline.

The event concluded with a networking reception, offering attendees the opportunity to connect, exchange ideas, and build relationships that support the continued growth of the manufacturing sector.

“We are grateful to CT State – Middlesex, CEO Kim Hogan, and Manufacturing Director Keith Carter for hosting this event and for their openness to collaborate with the manufacturing community,” Dimou added in closing.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 2,019 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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28^th Annual Cruise Night on Main Street scheduled for Wednesday, June 11, 2025 in Downtown Middletown!

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the 28th Annual Cruise Night on Main Street, powered by NAPA, will take place on Wednesday, June 11, 2025 in downtown Middletown.

Cruise Night on Main Street brings hundreds of pre-2000 vehicles that line both sides of scenic Main Street from Washington Street to the South Green from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

This event will once again be filled with American spirit, amazing cars, live music by The 70’s Project, and over 40 vendors!

“The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce along with the Car Cruise Committee is extremely excited to be celebrating our 28^th annual car show. We are excited to take over Main Street once again for this annual family-friendly tradition which features incredible cars, great music, fantastic food and vendor options, and more” noted Johanna Bond, President, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.

This event brings fun to all ages and will benefit the Middletown Youth Programs, including the the Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program. There is a suggested donation of $10.00 for participants. All participants will be eligible to win one of 20 sponsor awards! Visit www.cruisenightonmain.com for more information.

For registration, directions and further information, go to www.cruisenightonmain.com. In the case of inclement weather and the event has to be postponed, the rain date has been set for Wednesday, June 25. The delay announcement will be posted on the website and will be distributed to local and statewide media outlets.

Thank you to this year’s sponsors for making our event possible:

Presenting Sponsor: NAPA; Top Gear Sponsors: Charles IT, Downtown Business District, Jarvis Products Corporation, Liberty Bank, and Middletown Chevrolet; High Performance Sponsors: Eli Cannon's Tap Room, Gameday Men’s Health – Middletown; Super Charger Sponsors: Absolute Air Services, LLC, Alchemi Wealth, Ameriprise Financial Services, Caleb Carney State Farm Insurance, Dunkin, Haven Hot Chicken, Haymond Law Firm, MARC Community Resources, POPS EXHAUST 3, Purple Elephant Car Wash/Auto Spa of Middletown, and Springside Middletown; Twin Turbo Sponsors: Carlson & Dumeer, LLC, Ch'i Lash the School, Middletown Toyota, and The Flood Law Firm; and Horsepower Sponsors: Cardone & Daughter Automotive, Inc., Community Foundation of Middlesex County, Connecticut Rental Center, Daniell M Curtis Real Estate Company, Dutch Point Credit Union, Inc., McInerney's Flower Shop, Middlesex Music Academy, Oddfellows Playhouse Youth Theater, Overhead Door Of Middlesex County Cromwell, and Torrison Stone and Garden.

A special thank you to the Connecticut Military Corvette Club and the Garage Guys Car Club for their longtime support of this event!

Questions or concerns can be directed to Joe Santaniello at (860) 347-6924 or joe@middlesexchamber.com.

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Now Accepting Applications For 2025 Side Street to Main Street Minority Business “Know-How” Program Class 14

(Middletown, CT.) The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that the 2025 Side Street to Main Street Minority BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” Program is now accepting applications. Now entering its 14^th year, Side Street to Main Street BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” is a preparatory companion course, designed specifically to assist minority owned small business startups in Middlesex County and beyond, who have not had formal business training, to become more successful by developing the attitudes, skills, and qualities necessary for effective business ownership, and success, taking them from the Side Street to the Main Street of the business community.

Business “Know-How” consists of four intensive entrepreneurial instructional sessions over a nine-week period and is offered free of charge to eligible participants. Class sessions are scheduled on Tuesday evenings (unless otherwise noted): 6:15-10:30 PM on the following dates: May 20, June 3, Wednesday June 18, July 1 with a Certificate of Completion Presentation Ceremony on July 8.

Class Sessions will be conducted Online via Zoom

Funded by a generous Grant from Eversource Energy, BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” is designed specifically to assist minority small business owners in Middlesex County and beyond, and it has been a most successful,  and effective way in which we have encouraged the development and growth of small, minority-owned businesses, which are now part of the business community.

Advance Application/Registration is required for participation. To apply/register, or seek more information, contact Program Coordinator: Jennifer -Email: Jennifer@middlesexchamber.com

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 2,019 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex Chamber Proudly Announces 2025 Small Business Awards Recipients

 (Middletown, CT.)  Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the chamber’s 2025 Small Business Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025 at St. Clement’s Castle, Portland from 4:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Each year, dozens of Middlesex Chamber businesses are nominated for demonstrating exemplary “Best Practices” including business growth and performance, customer service strategies, unique and innovative approaches, and community involvement and contribution, and we look forward to celebrating our 2025 recipients.

 The 2025 winners are:

Business of the Year (1-30 employees) - The Wheatmarket, Chester

Business of the Year (31+ employees) - Connecticut Water Company, Middlesex County

Business Growth & Expansion - Coughlin Service Corp. & Woodworking, East Hampton

Manufacturer of the Year - Carey Manufacturing, Cromwell

Entrepreneur of the Year - CPC Global LLC, Middletown

Minority Owned Business of the Year - Bloom Agency LLC, Middletown

Nonprofit Business of the Year - Durham Agricultural Fair Association, Durham

Outstanding New Business Under 5 Years - Avella's & Melilli's Italian Specialty Market, Middletown

Retail Business of the Year - Savvy Swap Consignment, Portland

Tourism/Hospitality Business of the Year - Travelers Championship, Cromwell

Veteran Owned Business of the Year - Brown & Wimler Construction LLC, Middletown

Woman Owned Business of the Year - 640 Health Therapies, Westbrook

Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We are very proud of our 2025 Small Business Award winners who were all nominated by their fellow chamber members. They come from many different industry sectors, but they all share a commitment to Middlesex County and they are all great representatives of our business community.”

Small Business Awards Committee Chairwoman Darlene Briggs noted, “The 2025 Small Business Award winners represent the best of Middlesex County. They are not only great businesses, but they are strong corporate citizens, and we look forward to celebrating their success.”

To join us in celebration of these incredible recipients, please visit https://business.middlesexchamber.com/events/details/2025-small-business-awards-ceremony-30550?calendarMonth=2025-05-01

Date: Thursday May 1, 2025

Time: 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM

4:30 p.m. Registration/Networking

5:00 p.m. Award Ceremony Begins

Location: St Clements Castle, 1031 Portland/Cobalt Road, Portland, CT

Fees/Admission: $45 per person

About the Chamber- Established in 1895, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is the largest Chamber in the state. Located in Middletown, CT, this dynamic business organization boasts over 2,019 members that employ over 50,000 people. The Chamber strives to be the voice of business in Middlesex County and the surrounding area with nine geographically based divisions that meet on a monthly basis as well as industry-based committees and councils throughout Middlesex County that work hard to provide a valuable service to their members. In addition to being an effective and dynamic business organization, the chamber strives to be a community organization. Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce runs a number of events and programs that support veterans, youth development, and substance abuse prevention. For more information visit www.MiddlesexChamber.com

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Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program Fall 2024/ Winter 2025 Class XXIV Graduation

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that on Tuesday, March 18th, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce held the 24th Graduation Awards Ceremony of the Award-Winning Side Street to Main Street Business and Leadership Development Program, a one year long entrepreneurial and business development course, with a rigorous curriculum, designed to assist minority small business owners in the  community, who have not had formal business training, to become more successful by developing the attitudes, skills and qualities necessary for effective business ownership and success, taking them from the Side Street to the Main Street of the  business community.

In attendance at the Graduation Ceremony to present the Graduates with their achievement certificates were City of Middletown Mayor Ben Florsheim and Faith Jackson, Director, Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity Management & Veterans Service Contact Representative,

Rodney Bitgood, Chairman, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce & Owner of Cromwell Automotive, Johanna Bond, President, Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce,

Pamela Steele, Chairwoman, Central Business Bureau, Owner of Pamela Roose Specialty Hand Knits and Graduate of the Side Street to Main Street Program.

The program was made available through a 3-year City of Middletown ARPA grant award.

The next Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program Class is scheduled to begin in Fall of 2025. All interested applicants must complete and submit the program’s online application found on the Chamber website www.middlesexchamber.com

and attend the Mandatory Program Orientation meeting at the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.

For more detailed information on the Side Street to Main Street Programs, please contact Program Coordinator Jennifer at Jennifer@middlesexchamber.com

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 2,017 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from several different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 150 and 300 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes UConn Women’s Head Basketball Coach, Geno Auriemma on March 17, 2025

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the University of Connecticut, Women’s Head Basketball Coach, Geno Auriemma, will serve as keynote speaker at a Chamber Breakfast Meeting on Monday, March 17, 2025.

The Breakfast Meeting, sponsored by Webster Bank, will be held at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel, Rocky Hill from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We look forward to welcoming Coach Geno Auriemma back to our Member Breakfast Meeting on Monday, March 17. We are all very proud of Geno’s success in leading the UConn Women’s Basketball Program.”

The cost is $30 for Chamber Members and $40 for non-members.

Advance registration is required, please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.

About Coach Geno Auriemma- Entering his 40th season in 2024-25, Geno Auriemma has redefined the meaning of success in as head coach of the University of Connecticut women’s basketball program. During his illustrious tenure, Auriemma has transformed the Huskies into an unmatched program of excellence.

Arriving to Storrs prior to the 1985-86 season, Auriemma has taken a program with just one winning season to its current state, which includes 11 NCAA Championships, 23 Final Fours, six perfect seasons and 59 conference championships.

With a win over FDU on Nov. 20, 2024, Auriemma reached 1,217 career victories, setting the NCAA record as the winningest coach in college basketball history.

A 2006 inductee to both the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame, Auriemma became just the fourth women’s basketball coach to reach 1,000 career wins on Dec. 19, 2017. He was the fastest coach to reach the mark, doing so in his 1,135th career game, and owns the best win percentage in the sport (.882).

Auriemma has been named Naismith National Coach of the Year eight times, AP National Coach of the Year nine times, WBCA National Coach of the Year seven times and conference coach of the year 16 times.

Under Auriemma, 27 Huskies have been selected as WBCA All-Americans for 48 total recognitions while a Husky has been named National Player of the Year 14 times.

He is the first coach in women's basketball history to guide a team to five consecutive Final Four appearances on two separate occasions and set a record with 14 consecutive Final Fours from 2008-22.

Off the court, the Huskies boast a perfect 100 percent graduation rate among four-year student-athletes while regularly participating in community service and outreach.

As members of the American Athletic Conference from 2013-20, UConn won the league’s regular season and tournament titles in each season while not dropping a game in conference play. UConn has swept both conference titles in the same year 22 times under Auriemma and a total of 25 Huskies have been named conference player of the year.

Auriemma served as head coach of the U.S. Women’s National team for eight years, leading Team USA to the 2012 and 2016 Olympic gold medals. He also led the United States to gold in the 2010 and 2014 FIBA World Championships.

Auriemma is a 1981 graduate of West Chester with a bachelor of arts in political science. He and his wife, Kathy, have three children and four grandchildren.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 2,019 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Now Available

(Middletown, CT.) Rodney Bitgood, Chairman of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce has announced that applications for the 2025 Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program are available online at Middlesexchamber.com / under the “For Business” tab (https://www.middlesexchamber.com/youth-programs/) or at local high schools, and the Middlesex Chamber office, with the final due date of May 23, 2025, by 4:30 pm.  Applications should be submitted to the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce office, 393 Main Street, Middletown via drop off or email to lorenzo@middlesexchamber.com, with all required documents for consideration.

Every year since 2006, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce has placed Middletown and area students into constructive summer employment through the Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program. The chamber has the capacity, through our dynamic membership, to place these youth into employment in a wide variety of professional fields for six weeks in the summer months working up to 20 hours per week. Our host sites come from the public sector, the non-profit sector, and most notably the private sector.

“This program teaches our young people not only the fundamentals of employment, such as getting to work on time and ready to contribute, but also the pride that comes with putting in a solid work week and receiving a paycheck that was earned through hard and honest work. We are excited to begin this program again this year,” said President of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, Johanna Bond.

Applications will also be available at the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce office, 393 Main St, Middletown. (Middletown, Cromwell, and Portland residents are eligible for this program).

The program is designed to provide opportunities for economically challenged youth in the community between the ages of 14 to 24, but all interested age eligible youth are encouraged to apply for consideration.

For additional information or to access application online, please check out www.middlesexchamber.com/youth-programs/ or call the Middlesex Chamber at (860) 347-6924.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 2,019 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from several different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 150 and 300 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Youth at Work Employee Named to Dean’s and President’s List

(Middletown, CT.) Program Director, Lorenzo Marshall, of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Youth at Work Program announced that longtime program participant Nia Watson was recently named to the University of Hartford’s Dean’s List and President’s List for the Fall 2024 semester.

Program Director Lorenzo Marshall noted, “We are so proud of Nia’s great accomplishment of being named to the Dean’s List and President’s List at the University of Hartford during the Fall 2024 semester. Nia has been a great member of our Youth at Work program and has made great strides toward advancing her future. We are excited to watch Nia continue to succeed. Congratulations to Nia and her parents on this great accomplishment”

Since 2006, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce has placed Middletown students into constructive summer employment through the Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program. The chamber has the capacity, through our dynamic membership, to place these youth into employment in a wide variety of professional fields for six weeks in the summer months, working up to 20 hours per week. Our host sites come from the public sector, the non-profit sector, and most notably the private sector.

Youth employment is a critical stepping stone to career success, financial literacy, and economic mobility. Providing early workforce opportunities helps young people develop crucial life skills such as responsibility, communication, teamwork, and adaptability. Additionally, youth workers contribute fresh perspectives, creativity, and enthusiasm to local businesses, strengthening the community and fostering a pipeline of skilled and motivated future professionals.

“This program teaches our young people not only the fundamentals of employment, such as getting to work on time and being ready to contribute, but also the pride that comes with putting in a solid workweek and receiving a paycheck that was earned through hard and honest work. These early experiences instill confidence, resilience, and independence in our youth. We are excited to begin this program again this year,” said President of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, Johanna Bond.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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Free Professional Training & Development Classes Offered by Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the chamber once again plans to offer the “Professional Training & Development Program”, free of charge, in 2025. Classes and participant engagement will be conducted in person and virtually via Zoom, during the months of March, April, May, and June of 2025.

This important workforce development program has trained over 2,000 people since its inception in 1986. It has received many awards along the way including a Presidential Citation, and The Governor’s Laurel Award.

Chamber Workforce Development Director Lorenzo Marshall noted, “We are excited to offer these free classes once again for those who want to improve their skillset and their professional prospects. We are grateful to the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development for their support of this important program for our community.”

This year, we are proud to offer a more in-depth version of the Grant Writing and Access to Funding class during the month of April for Middlesex County residents thanks to a partnership with The Connection, Inc.

Classes offered include:

• Grant Writing & Access to Funding
• Strategic Leadership - Managing Yourself and Leading Others
• Social Media / Personal and Business Adaptation
• Google Sheets
• Google Docs
• Google Slides
• Career and Personal Coaching
• Money Matters / Financial Management

These programs are available to the public free of charge, and open for registration currently.

For additional information on the program, please visit www.middlesexchamber.com  and click on “For Business” tab to access Professional Training and Development site, you can also register there as well.

Please note that this program is grant funded and contingent on receipt of grant funds.

To schedule a pre-course appointment, or for more information concerning or signing up for classes offered, please contact Lorenzo Marshall at 860-347-6924 or lorenzo@middlesexchamber.com.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from several different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 150 and 300 Chamber members each month.

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Get Ready to Experience the Annual Magic of Middletown presented by Holiday on Main Street!

(Middletown, CT.) Central Business Bureau Chairwoman Pamela Steele and Event Chairman Al Santostefano of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce invites the community to experience the 39^th Annual Magic of Middletown presented by Holiday on Main Street!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and the Middlesex Chamber and City of Middletown are bringing back the Magic to Middletown again this year! This magical series of events will be held on the weekends from Thanksgiving to Christmas! These safe, fun and interactive events are sure to get the community excited and downtown to feel the holiday spirit.

The Magic of Middletown will begin with a tree lighting on Friday, November 29 on the South Green and outside of the Middlesex Chamber from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. where we are excited to welcome over 5,000 people to enjoy the spirit of the holiday in downtown Middletown! Events include our carol sing with local school students, free horse & wagon rides, free pictures with santa, and the big Tree Lighting on the South Green at 6:00 p.m.

Events will continue Saturday, November 30 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. The North Pole Returns to Middletown during this great kickoff weekend featuring a Holiday Storytime at Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore with Middletown’s Mayor Ben Florsheim, free pictures with Santa and horse and wagon rides, strolling acapella performances by the Connecticut Yuletide Carolers, our Holiday Craft Village, and much more.

The following Saturday, December 7, get ready to shop ‘til you drop with our annual Holiday Pop-up Vendor Fair from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Are you looking for that last minute gift or want to support a small local artisan? Come stop by one of the many vendor’s set-up along Main Street and then stop into one of the many stores downtown! At 10:30 a.m., enjoy a holiday story time with Middletown’s New Fire Chief David Albert at Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore (413 Main Street).

The final Saturday, December 14, join us as we celebrate Holidays Around the World from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Join our friends from Free Center and The Middlesex United Way for a festive journey at the Holidays Around the World exhibit located at 428 Main St. Explore the rich traditions, vibrant celebrations, and unique customs from cultures across the globe. From dazzling holiday displays to interactive music and exhibits, it's a fun and educational experience for all ages. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to celebrate the season in a truly global way! At 10:30 a.m., enjoy a holiday story time with Middletown’s Police Chief Erik Costa at Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore (413 Main Street).

Each of our Saturday events will feature our “Tis the Season to Find a Gnome” scavenger hunt at different locations throughout downtown, our Holiday Craft Village from 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at 428 Main St, pictures with Santa, horse and wagon rides, holiday music, and much more. The Chamber will also host the annual Dashing through Downtown Decorated Vehicle Parade on the evening of Friday, December 20, which will feature a decorated car parade that will travel around downtown Middletown to showcase our beautiful Main Street and the surrounding areas!

Dashing Through Downtown Decorated Vehicle Parade route:

• Leave Middletown High School @ 7pm SHARP!
• Right onto Newfield St
• Left onto Liberty St
• Continue onto Prospect St
• Right onto Grand St
• Right onto Main St
• Disburse at the South Green

For a full schedule of events, please visit www.holidayonmain.com or contact Haley Stafford at haley@middlesexchamber.com.

In the case of inclement weather, the tree lighting will be rescheduled for Saturday, November 30 from 4:00 – 8:00 p.m. The announcement will be made on Friday, November 29 at 9:00 a.m. through social media, the Holiday on Main Street and Middlesex Chamber websites, a news releases, and an email blast. 

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Governor Ned Lamont, State of Connecticut on December 17, 2024

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that Governor Ned Lamont, State of Connecticut, will serve as keynote speaker at a Chamber Breakfast Meeting on Tuesday, December 17, 2024.

The Breakfast Meeting, sponsored by Eversource Energy, will be held at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “The chamber is proud of the fact that the sitting Governor of the State of Connecticut has addressed our organization in the month of December every year since the administration of Governor William A. O’Neill. We look forward to welcoming Governor Lamont, who has continued to do a great job leading our state, and thank Eversource for its sponsorship of this important annual chamber event.”

The cost is $30 for Chamber Members and $40 for non-members.

Advance registration is required, please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,900 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 150 and 300 Chamber members each month.

About Governor Ned Lamont- Ned Lamont was sworn into office as the 89th governor of Connecticut on January 9, 2019. He began his second term on January 4, 2023.

Lamont got involved in public service shortly after college, founding a weekly newspaper in a town hit by the loss of its largest employer. Covering town meetings and the Board of Selectmen, he helped to bring voice and transparency to a community working to recover from job losses and reinvent itself. Later, as a member of both the Greenwich Board of Selectmen and the Board of Estimate and Taxation, Lamont worked in a bipartisan effort to safeguard a multimillion-dollar budget and deliver results for constituents. For four years, Lamont also served as Chairman of the State Investment Advisory Council, overseeing a multibillion-dollar state pension fund.

Lamont started his own company, taking on the large and established giants of the telecom industry. Under his vision and stewardship, the company grew to serve over 400 of America's largest college campuses and 1 million college students across the nation.

As a volunteer teacher, Lamont sought to give back to his community by volunteering at Harding High School in Bridgeport. In an effort to spark entrepreneurship, Lamont taught students about the inner-workings of small businesses, bringing in local businesspeople to share their own experiences, and helping to place students in local internships. Lamont is on the faculty of Central Connecticut State University as an adjunct professor of political science and philosophy, where he also helped to found a popular business start-up competition. In early 2009, he helped lead an initiative to bring together Connecticut leaders from across the business, nonprofit, and labor sectors to unite in a strategy to create new jobs in the state.

As a candidate for United States Senate in 2006, he stood up for his convictions and challenged the political establishment. Taking on long-time incumbent Joe Lieberman for the Democratic nomination for United States Senate, Lamont campaigned on the platform that wars in the Middle East were draining resources and attention that could be better focused on pressing domestic issues like the economy, education, and healthcare. As a private citizen, he fought for the issues in which he believes, serving on the boards of Mercy Corps and the Conservation Services Group, non-profits which seek to make a difference in the humanitarian and renewable energy fields, respectively.

Lamont was born on January 3, 1954, in Washington, D.C. to Camille Helene and Edward Miner Lamont. The eldest of three children, he attended Phillips Exeter Academy, and served as president of the student newspaper, The Exonian. After graduating Phillips Exeter in 1972, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in sociology from Harvard College in 1976 and a Master of Business Administration from the Yale School of Management in 1980.

Lamont married his wife Annie on September 10, 1983. They have three children: Emily, Lindsay, and Teddy.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Hosts A Free Information Addiction Seminar, “Facing the Holidays IV”

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the Middlesex Chamber will once again host a free informational addiction seminar titled, “Facing the Holidays IV”.

This annual seminar, presented by the Middlesex Chamber’s Recovery Employment Program (REP), Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council (MCSAAC) and the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services (DMHAS) will be held on Thursday, December 5, 2024 from 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. at the Courtyard by Marriott, 4 Sebethe Drive, Cromwell, CT. There is no cost to attend.

Join our presenters for an insightful discussion on the challenges people in recovery face during the holiday season. Important topics such as depression, alcohol consumption, family dynamics, navigating the holidays and the unique struggles faced by individuals recently released from prison will be discussed. This conversation aims to provide valuable tools and support to help those in recovery experience a holiday free from drugs or alcohol.

Presenters to be announced soon.

To register for this free educational webinar, visit https://business.middlesexchamber.com/events/details/recovery-employment-program-middlesex-county-substance-abuse-action-council-presents-facing-the-holidays-part-4-an-informational-addiction-seminar-30085?calendarMonth=2024-12-01

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 “Distinguished Citizen Award” Winners and “Chief Michael L. Green Award” Recipient

(Middletown, CT) Rodney Bitgood, Chairman of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, has announced the 2024 winners of the Middlesex Chamber’s Distinguished Citizen Award and Chief Michael L. Green Award.

Each year, the Middlesex Chamber presents the Distinguished Citizen Award to one or more individuals who has served as an inspiration to others and is recognized by the Middlesex community as having unselfishly given his or her time and talent to produce a lasting benefit to the area. The Distinguished Citizen Committee chose the winners from a list of over 180 nominees.

The Chief Michael L. Green Award is presented annually to a member of the police or fire community for his or her outstanding service to the community and to the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce.

The Chamber proudly announces that the 2024 Distinguished Citizen Award winners are Enzo Faienza, John Lyman III, and Kristen Roberts.

The 2024 Chief Michael L. Green Award Recipient is Fire Chief James Trzaski, Middletown South Fire District.

Middlesex Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “Again this year, our Distinguished Citizen Committee has chosen three outstanding individuals for our Distinguished Citizen Award and one individual for our Chief Michael L. Green Award. They have contributed to making Middlesex County a better place to work and live and we are extremely proud of all of them.”

Enzo Faienza

Enzo Faienza worked his way through the Cromwell School system graduating from Cromwell High School Class of 1991. He went on to the University of Hartford where he graduated cum laude in 1995 with his bachelor’s in business, and his major in accounting.

Enzo was always involved in his father’s family Tile business and in 1996 they started their own business, Universal Ceramic Tile along with his brothers Joe and Tony located in Harford, CT. The business has grown through the years and in 2006 they purchased the location they are in now and built a beautiful 10,000 square foot showroom and warehousing facility of 40,000 square feet.

Through the years Enzo was always interested in helping the community. In 2007 he decided to get involved with the Town. He joined the Cromwell Republican Town Committee which he helped to rebuild and eventually became Chairman. He served on various committees such as Planning & Zoning from 2008 to 2013, Charter Revision Commission from 2010-2011, Board of Selectman 2011-2013 and in 2013 he was elected the first Mayor of Cromwell.

As Mayor, Enzo was very involved with the town. His passion and love for the town, and one of his main goals was to bring unity and community together. One of the first things he did along with his dear friend and former Chairman of the Board of Education Michael Camilleri was establish the Cromwell Arts Alliance. The Cromwell Arts Alliance has become a great asset to the town. The Cromwell Downtown Alliance was created, and he was involved with helping that group to bring events such as Halloween and Christmas on Main. The group also helped establish the Cromwell Mayor’s Gala which helped raise money for Cromwell Human Resources, Middlesex Hospital for cancer research, The Hospital for Special Care for ALS, The American Legion for the Wall of Honor, and for Adelbrook Community Services to help get a splash pad on campus. He helped with the Memorial Day Car Show and the Cromwell Children’s Coalition.        Enzo has always worked to give back to the community he loves so much.

During his time as Mayor, Enzo’s big philosophy was working as a “Team”.       He loved putting people together and working to make Cromwell the best town it can be. As Mayor he had many accomplishments for the Town and here are a few:

• Maintained an AAA bond rating which has given the Town great flexibility to refinance some of our older bonded obligations at lower rates. The Town has also jumped on the opportunity to do major road improvements and infrastructure projects throughout Cromwell.
• LED streetlight conversion, which is saving the taxpayers approximately $100,000 per year in energy savings, and they are more environmentally friendly.
• Economic development has been a great strength during his term. He started the business visitations in which he and members of the Town Council and EDC visited well over 100 businesses. It was a priority for him to see how they are doing and if there is anything the Town can do to better support them. The Town had seen an influx of new businesses under his leadership. The infrastructure work done on County Line Road through grants has paved the way for a 403,000 s/f warehousing facility in which Amazon calls home.
• Cromwell Parks have been well maintained and the Town added a splash pad and canopy at Watrous Park. The tennis courts have been renovated at Watrous Park and the Town has added walking trails to Hoffman Farm behind Cromwell Dog Park.
• Cromwell Landing improvements for a handicap accessible fishing pier, walking trails, and boardwalk have begun. This is being funded by left over grant money that had to be used for parks improvements.

Worked with the BOE to help bring the new scoreboard to Pierson Park. Using the new technology, we are able to show movies and started a series of summer movies at the park.

Supported and helped get the Library Renovation and Expansion brought forward to the construction phase with the help of a $1,000,000 state grant. This brought our Library up to modern times with the addition of a technology and multipurpose room.

With the help of the Health, Youth Services along and the BOE, Enzo led the way in setting up the first Town vaping forum.

Enzo served as Mayor for 8 years and in 2021 for family and personal reasons Enzo decided not to run for re-election. It was time for him to pass the torch along and give more time to his family and business. He is still involved in Cromwell and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Padre Pio Foundation of America, and Adelbrook Community Services. He still has a deep connection to Cromwell and the community he loves so much. He has maintained relationships with so many in town and still has that passion and love for his hometown.

Enzo is married to his amazing wife Kate, and they have a daughter Adrianna.

John Lyman III

John Lyman, III is currently the Executive Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer of The Lyman Farm, Incorporated, the operator of Lyman Orchards, and is part of the eighth generation of the Lyman family that has farmed in Middlefield, Connecticut since 1741.

Today Lyman Orchards is 1,100 acres in size and consists of Orchards where you can Pick Your Own fruits, Mazes, a year-round retail market, wholesale pies, wholesale fruits and cider, hard cider, three golf courses, a golf training center, a restaurant, special events, weddings, and outings.  Most recently Lyman Orchards expanded into New Haven with two large bakery production facilities.

John’s primary responsibility is overseeing orchard operations.  He works closely with the Lyman Board of Directors in strategic planning and product development, and also acts as the face of Lyman Orchards with the media and public affairs.    He has done just about every job at the Farm over the years except teaching golf!

Like his father, Jack Lyman, and his grandfather, John Sr., John grew up on the family farm, learning from the ground up the challenges and rewards of Connecticut farming and land stewardship, guided by some basic principles on the ability to keep a family business going into the next generation, knowing the success is a result of strong teamwork between the family shareholders, board of directors and employees.

A 1979 graduate of Colby College, Waterville ME., John holds a BA in American Studies.  After college and before joining the family business full time in 1980, John worked on an apple and pear orchard in Holland where he claims to have received his ‘formal’ education in fruit growing.  John remains actively involved in Connecticut Agri-tourism, and his industry involvement throughout the             New England region has been extensive. He is currently a Director of the New England Apple Council, and a Trustee of Red Tomato.  Past appointments include serving twelve years as a Director on Farm Credit East’s Board of Directors (an agricultural bank, current loan volume over $11 billion), President of the Connecticut Agricultural Businesses Cluster, Director and Vice Chairman of the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station’s Board of Control, President of the Connecticut Pomological Society, Chairman and Director of the New England McIntosh Growers Assoc., and President and Director of the New York and New England Apple Institute.

John is a member of the Middlefield Federated Church and currently serves as its Moderator.  John resides in Middlefield with his wife Elaine.  They have three grown children, Adam, Sarah, and Laura, daughter-in-law Chrissy, and three grandchildren, John, Daniel, and Charlotte.

Kristen Roberts

Kristen (Lemley) Roberts is the Vice President of Communications for Comcast’s New England Region, which serves customers in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont. In this role she is responsible for public relations and employee communications, and a company spokesperson. She oversees media relations, strategic communications and serves on the region’s senior leadership team.

Kristen first joined Comcast in 2002 as Manager of Public Affairs for Connecticut and was promoted to Area Director of Government and Community Relations for Connecticut in 2004. While in these positions, she was responsible for overseeing all aspects of government and public affairs, including franchise renewals and regulatory compliance, and directing community investment strategies and employee volunteer opportunities. She went on to serve as the Senior Director of Public Relations & Community Investment before being promoted to Vice President in 2010. In 2016, she assumed her current role of Vice President of Communications.

Kristen’s efforts extend beyond the workplace and into the community. Her civic involvement began in 1992 when she joined the Middletown Jaycees where she held the position of President from 1996-1998. She has held several other leadership positions for professional and community organizations, most notably serving two terms as President of the New England Chapter of Women in Cable and Telecommunications (WICT). She sits on several community Boards, including the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, where she held the position of Chairwoman in 2022; the Middlesex United Way, where she held the position of Chair of the organization’s 2016 campaign; and serves as a Trustee of Goodspeed Musicals and is a Corporator of Middlesex Hospital. Locally, she served as President of the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce in 2012-2014 and serves on the Town of Old Saybrook’s ARPA Committee and is Co-Chair of the town’s Saybrook Cares Committee, an ad-hoc committee formed to help residents during the COVID pandemic.

Kristen has also received many accolades over the years. In 2019, the Middlesex United Way presented her with the Community Service Award, their highest and most prestigious honor for a United Way volunteer. She also received the Leadership Award from the New Haven Boys and Girls Club in 2016 and in 2015 she was recognized as a “Women in Business” honoree by the Hartford Business Journal. In 2014, she was an honoree at the Urban League of Southern Connecticut’s Women’s Empowerment Summit.

Kristen holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Hartford, a Bachelor of Science degree in Management from Central Connecticut State University, an Associate of Arts degree from Middlesex Community College and she graduated from the Paralegal Program at the University of Hartford. She is also a graduate of WICT’s Betsy Magness Leadership Institute, Wharton’s Women’s Executive Leadership Program and received a Certificate of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion from Cornell University.

Kristen resides in Old Saybrook, Connecticut.

James Trzaski

Fire Chief James Trzaski began his career as a volunteer firefighter with Beacon Hose Co. No. 1 in 1985.  Over the course of his membership, he held the officer ranks of Assistant Secretary, Secretary, Assistant EMS Director, Fire Captain, and Fire Chief.  In 1991 he was appointed as a career Firefighter in the Town of Naugatuck, where he served until 2014, and held the roles of Assistant Department Mechanic, Lieutenant, Captain/Shift Supervisor, and served as the Secretary of the Naugatuck’s IAFF Local 1219.

In 2016, he was hired by the South Fire District, Middletown, where he quickly rose through the ranks and has been the fire chief for four years.

Chief Trzaski has been an instructor at the Wolcott Regional Fire Training School, the Valley Regional Fire School, and the Connecticut Fire Academy, where he served as the Recruit Program Lead Instructor.

Throughout his professional career, he has been a member of the New Haven County Fire Emergency Plan, Valley Fire Chief’s Association, Middlesex County Chief’s Association, Connecticut State Firefighter’s Association, Connecticut Irregular’s Association, Connecticut Fire Chief’s Association, and the Connecticut Career Chief’s Association.

Chief Trzaski received the Naugatuck Fire Department’s 2003 Firefighter of the Year Award, several Naugatuck Fire Department Unit Citations, a Lifetime Achievement Award from Waterbury Hospital, and the Connecticut State Firefighters Association’s Firefighter of the Year Award in 2018.  He was inducted into the Connecticut State Firefighters Association Hall of Fame in 2021.

A past Chairman of the Connecticut Joint Council of Fire Services, he currently serves as the President of the Connecticut Fire Chief’s Association.

Chief Trzaski is an active Mentor with the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program which provides mentoring for elementary aged children attending Middletown Public Schools.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Maya Raichelson, Vice President, Manufacturing & Assembly, Pratt & Whitney on September 18, 2024

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Rodney Bitgood of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that Maya Raichelson, Vice President, Manufacturing & Assembly, Pratt & Whitney, will serve as keynote speaker at a Chamber Breakfast Meeting on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.

The Breakfast Meeting will be held at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel, Rocky Hill from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We look forward to welcoming Maya to our Member Breakfast Meeting on Wednesday, September, March 18. We look forward to hearing updates on the current landscape of manufacturing in our state, information on today’s workforce, and much more. I would like to give a special thank you to Pratt & Whitney for their sponsorship of this event, and their support of our chamber throughout the year.”

The cost is $30 for Chamber Members and $40 for non-members.

Advance registration is required, please register online: www.middlesexchamber.com.

About the Chamber- The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is a dynamic business organization with over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. Our chamber represents businesses of all sizes and industry sectors, from Fortune 500 companies to micro businesses, and we are committed to promoting a positive business climate in Middlesex County. Monthly Member Breakfast Meetings feature keynote speakers from a number of different professional fields including the business community, national politics, sports, and entertainment.  In addition to high profile speakers, Chamber Member Breakfast Meetings provide outstanding networking opportunities and attract between 300 and 600 Chamber members each month.

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Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce now accepting nominations for the William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award

(Middletown, CT). The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Support the Troops Committee is now accepting nominations for its annual William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award to be presented at the 2024 Support the Troops and Honor the Veterans Breakfast Meeting on Monday, November 4, 2024 at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel in Rocky Hill.

The William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award is presented to a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces in recognition of his or her distinguished service to the citizens of Connecticut, and selfless commitment to public service.  The recipient of this Award is decided by a committee of its previous winners.

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for the award:

• Nominee must live or work in the following Middlesex County towns: Chester, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Portland, Rocky Hill or Westbrook.
• Nominee must have served in a branch of the United States Armed Forces and continue to promote Veterans Affairs.
• Volunteer participation in local and/or state community organizations and/or initiatives.

Nominations must be received at the Chamber Office by

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024 AT 4:30 PM.

To download nomination form, visit: https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/1932/File/Haley/Pomfret-Award-Nomination-Form-2024.pdf

Please send all nominations to:

Sara Mendillo

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

393 Main Street

Middletown, CT 06457

Questions or concerns can be directed to Sara Mendillo at 860-347-6924 or sara@middlesexchamber.com

About Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce- Established in 1895, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is the largest Chamber in the state. Located in Middletown, CT, this dynamic business organization boasts over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. The Chamber strives to be the voice of business in Middlesex County and the surrounding area with nine geographically based divisions that meet on a monthly basis as well as industry-based committees and councils throughout Middlesex County that work hard to provide a valuable service to their members. In addition to being an effective and dynamic business organization, the chamber strives to be a community organization. Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce runs a number of events and programs that support veterans, youth development, and substance abuse prevention. For more information visit www.MiddlesexChamber.com

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Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program Now Accepting Applications

The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program is now accepting online applications. A mandatory Program Orientation Meeting for the program will follow.

The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Middletown and The Essex Group are proud to present the Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program. A unique, award-winning entrepreneurial business and leadership development course specifically targeted to assist minority small business owners in the community who have not had formal business training to become more successful by developing the attitudes, skills, and qualities necessary for business ownership, planning, and success, taking them from the Side Street to the Main Street of the business community. The program begins with 16 intensive weekly sessions to build skills and a formal business plan. Quarterly follow-up sessions reinforce the process so that participants meet with their expert business facilitators over the course of one full year. Classes are held at the Chamber offices,
393 Main Street, Middletown.

To participate, all interested candidates must complete the program’s online application submission process on the Chamber website www.middlesexchamber.com by Thursday, August 15th, and attend the Mandatory Program Orientation Meeting, on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, 6:30 pm, at the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce, 393 Main Street, Middletown, CT.

For more Program information contact Jennifer: Email: Jennifer@middlesexchamber.com or
telephone 860-347-6924 ext.222.

The Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program is funded by a generous grant from the City of Middletown and is facilitated by professionals from THE ESSEX GROUP.

JDeK7/23/2024

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce now accepting nominations for the William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award

(Middletown, CT). The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Support the Troops Committee is now accepting nominations for its annual William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award to be presented at the 2024 Support the Troops and Honor the Veterans Breakfast Meeting on Monday, November 4, 2024 at the Sheraton Hartford South Hotel in Rocky Hill.

The William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award is presented to a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces in recognition of his or her distinguished service to the citizens of Connecticut, and selfless commitment to public service.  The recipient of this Award is decided by a committee of its previous winners.

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for the award:

• Nominee must live or work in the following Middlesex County towns: Chester, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Haddam, East Hampton, Essex, Haddam, Killingworth, Middlefield, Middletown, Portland, Rocky Hill or Westbrook.
• Nominee must have served in a branch of the United States Armed Forces and continue to promote Veterans Affairs.
• Volunteer participation in local and/or state community organizations and/or initiatives.

Nominations must be received at the Chamber Office by

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30, 2024 AT 4:30 PM.

To download nomination form, visit: https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/1932/File/Haley/Pomfret-Award-Nomination-Form-2024.pdf

Please send all nominations to:

Sara Mendillo

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

393 Main Street

Middletown, CT 06457

Questions or concerns can be directed to Sara Mendillo at 860-347-6924 or sara@middlesexchamber.com

About Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce- Established in 1895, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is the largest Chamber in the state. Located in Middletown, CT, this dynamic business organization boasts over 1,986 members that employ over 50,000 people. The Chamber strives to be the voice of business in Middlesex County and the surrounding area with nine geographically based divisions that meet on a monthly basis as well as industry-based committees and councils throughout Middlesex County that work hard to provide a valuable service to their members. In addition to being an effective and dynamic business organization, the chamber strives to be a community organization. Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce runs a number of events and programs that support veterans, youth development, and substance abuse prevention. For more information visit www.MiddlesexChamber.com

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