Press Releases

March 10, 2025 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025 Middletown Summer Youth Employment Program Applications Now Available

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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February 14, 2025 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Youth at Work Employee Named to Dean’s and President’s List

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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January 7, 2025 - Free Professional Training & Development Classes Offered by Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

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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November 25, 2024 - Get Ready to Experience the Annual Magic of Middletown presented by Holiday on Main Street!

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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November 15, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Governor Ned Lamont, State of Connecticut on December 17, 2024

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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November 6, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Hosts A Free Information Addiction Seminar, “Facing the Holidays IV”

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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September 11, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Announces 2024 “Distinguished Citizen Award” Winners and “Chief Michael L. Green Award” Recipient

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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August 29, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Maya Raichelson, Vice President, Manufacturing & Assembly, Pratt & Whitney on September 18, 2024

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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August 23, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce now accepting nominations for the William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award

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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July 24, 2024 - Side Street to Main Street Business & Leadership Development Program Now Accepting Applications

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

July 10, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce now accepting nominations for the William J. Pomfret Veteran Community Service Award

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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June 26, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber Of Commerce Real Estate Council Announces Carl Guild as 2024 Mary Ellen Klinck Real Estate Industry Leader of the Year Award Recipient

Middlesex County Chamber Of Commerce Real Estate Council Announces Carl Guild as 2024 Mary Ellen Klinck Real Estate Industry Leader of the Year Award Recipient

(Middletown, CT.) Co-chairs Nancy Currlin and Juliet Cavanaugh of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce’s Real Estate Council announce that local realtor, Carl Guild of Carl Guild & Associates, has been awarded the 2024 Mary Ellen Klinck Real Estate Industry Leader of the Year Award during its recent Real Estate Luncheon.

The Mary Ellen Klinck Real Estate Industry Leader of the Year Award is presented annually at the Real Estate Luncheon to an individual who has made outstanding volunteer contributions to our community. The Award is named for Mary Ellen Klinck, former Chair of the Chamber’s Real Estate Council. Mary Ellen is the owner and president of Century 21 Root Agency in East Haddam, which she opened in 1960 and a past recipient of the Lower Board Association Realtor of the Year Award. She is an active member of many organizations in Middlesex County including the Chamber.

Co-chair Juliet Cavanaugh noted, “Carl is a very deserving recipient of the Mary Ellen Klinck Real Estate Industry Leader of the Year Award. Throughout the year, Carl supports local initiatives through the Carl Guild & Associates scholarship, encourages his real estate agents in their community involvement, and is dedicated to giving back in his community.”

To view a list of past recipients, please visit: https://chambermaster.blob.core.windows.net/userfiles/UserFiles/chambers/1932/File/Awards/Mary-Ellen-Klinck-Real-Estate-Agent-of-the-Year.pdf

About Carl Guild - Carl is a nationally recognized Realtor/Broker and Connecticut native who has been taking the real estate market by storm since he was first licensed in early 2006. His real estate experience is richly diverse, covering everything from huge subdivisions, commercial projects, and mixed-use developments to condominiums, and waterfront homes. His innovative marketing, dedication to his clients, and attention to detail have helped him to create lasting relationships with clients and other real estate agents alike. Carl’s education and background in communications and technology set him apart from other agents in the market. Within central Connecticut, Carl has established a local, word-of-mouth network of referrals based on his exemplary service to his clients and authentic approach to real estate.

Beyond his professional achievements, Carl is deeply committed to giving back to the community. He actively supports local initiatives through the Carl Guild & Associates scholarship, encourages and backs his real estate agents in their community involvement, and plays an integral role in the Old Home Day Committee in his hometown of East Hampton. This dedication to community service underscores Carl’s belief in the importance of contributing to the well-being and growth of the communities he serves.

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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June 10, 2024 - Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Approved for $3.28 Million Bond Funding for Renovations and Capital Improvements

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Approved for $3.28 Million Bond Funding for Renovations and Capital Improvements

(Middletown, CT.) The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce (“the Chamber”) announced today that it has been approved for $3.28 million in bond funding for renovations and capital improvements at its Main Street, Middletown office. The 7,000 square foot Chamber office was built in 1915 and has been part of the community for more than a century. The bond funds, authorized under the Connecticut Urban Act Grant program, will allow for needed building renovations, energy efficiency upgrades and ADA improvements. The project will provide important upgrades, while maintaining the historic look and character of the original building.

Johanna Bond, President of the Chamber said, “We are so grateful to the Governor and the Bond Commission for awarding these funds to upgrade the Middlesex Chamber building. We appreciate the assistance of Matt Lesser and the support of the entire Middlesex County legislative delegation in this process.” Bond continued, “These building renovations will allow us to continue to grow valuable programs and services which support businesses, enhance jobs and promote economic development in Connecticut.”

The Chamber conducts programs that support diversity, equity and inclusion, economic development, workforce development, youth employment, manufacturing, housing, substance abuse prevention, veterans and tourism. The Chamber utilizes member dues; collaborates with businesses, public and private educational institutions; and leverages state and federal programs to cost effectively provide a multitude of programs and services.

Sean Hayes, Chairman of the Board of the Middlesex Chamber noted, “The Middlesex Chamber has a long history of providing valuable services for our members and supporting economic development and workforce development needs for residents and businesses in Middlesex County and beyond. This funding will allow for necessary renovations to make the existing building safe, energy efficient and fully accessible so important programs and services which benefit Connecticut businesses and residents will continue.”

The Middlesex Chamber office hosts the Connecticut Small Business Development Center, Middlesex County Revitalization Committee (MCRC), Central Business Bureau (CBB) and Central Regional Tourism Office. These entities partner with the chamber to actively support businesses and economic development which benefit residents of Middletown, the county, and the state.

Bond noted, “The project aligns with the goals of the Connecticut Urban Act as it supports activities which promote economic development and improve the quality of life for urban residents of the state, particularly municipalities such as Middletown, which are designated as economically distressed, public investment communities or urban centers.”

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 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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June 5, 2024 -2024 Middlesex Chamber Small Business Awards

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Haley Stafford

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

FOR MORE INFORMATION – (860) 347-6924 or haley@middlesexchamber.com

2024 Middlesex Chamber Small Business Awards

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the winners of the 2024 Annual Small Business Awards scheduled for Thursday, June 27 from 4:30 – 7:00 p.m. at Saint Clements Castle & Marina, Portland

The 2024 winners are:

Business of the Year (1-30 employees)

PrideStaff, Rocky Hill

Business of the Year (31+ employees)

NAPA Genuine Parts Company, Middletown

Business Growth & Expansion

Noah’s at 63 Main, Essex & Tate’s Restaurant, Middletown

Manufacturer of the Year

Chapco, Chester

Entrepreneur of the Year

Justbecause Media, Middletown

Minority Owned Business of the Year

SoulFully Vegan, Berlin

Nonprofit Business of the Year

Cromwell Childrens Coalition, Cromwell

Outstanding New Business Under 5 Years

Harrie’s Jailhouse, Middletown

Retail Business of the Year

The Man Cave & She Shed Too!, Middletown

Tourism/Hospitality Business of the Year

The Kate, Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center, Old Saybrook

Veteran Owned Business of the Year

Float Forty One Exhale, Cromwell

Woman Owned Business of the Year

deMelis Atelier, Higganum

Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We are very proud of our 2024 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 2024 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 www.middlesexchamber.com.

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 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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May 29, 2024 -27th Annual Cruise Night on Main Street scheduled for June 12, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Joe Santaniello

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce

FOR MORE INFORMATION – (860) 347-6924 or joe@middlesexchamber.com

27^th Annual Cruise Night on Main Street scheduled for June 12, 2024

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that the 27th Annual Cruise Night on Main Street, powered by NAPA, will take place on Wednesday, June 12, 2024 in downtown Middletown.

Cruise Night on Main Street brings hundreds of pre-1999 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 NightShift, and nearly 40 vendors!

“The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce along with the Car Cruise Committee is extremely excited to be celebrating our 27^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 Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program, Middletown Recreation Programs and 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 19 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 26. 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, Key Chevrolet, and Liberty Bank; High Performance Sponsors: Eli Cannon's Tap Room, Caleb Carney State Farm Insurance, and Plymouth Glass & Mirror Inc; Super Charger Sponsors: Absolute Air Services, LLC, Alchemi Wealth, Ameriprise Financial Services, Apple Rehab Middletown, Dunkin, Purple Elephant Car Wash/Auto Spa of Middletown, Root Center for Advanced Recovery, Springside Middletown, The Flood Law Firm, and Victory Church; Twin Turbo Sponsors: Carlson & Dumeer, LLC, Ch'i Lash the School, Merit Financial Advisors, Mirabito, and Wesleyan RJ Julia Bookstore; and Horse Powered Sponsors: Cardone & Daughter Automotive, Inc., Community Foundation of Middlesex County, Compound, Concentrate's and Coffee Radio, Connecticut Rental Center, Daniell M Curtis Real Estate Company, McInerney's Flower Shop, Middlesex Music Academy, and Overhead Door Of Middlesex County Cromwell. 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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May 9, 2024 -Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Terrence Cheng, Chancellor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, and Dr. John Maduko, President, CT State Community College on May 29, 2024

Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Terrence Cheng, Chancellor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, and Dr. John Maduko, President, CT State Community College on May 29, 2024

(Middletown, CT.) Chairman, Sean Hayes of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce announced that Terrence Cheng, Chancellor, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, and Dr. John Maduko, President, CT State Community College will serve as keynote speakers at a Chamber Breakfast Meeting on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

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

Chamber President Johanna Bond noted, “We look forward to welcoming both Chancellor Terrence Cheng and President Dr. John Maduko to our Annual Business & Education Partnership and Hal Kaplan Middletown Mentor Program Recognition Breakfast. The Business & Education Partnership Advisory Council serves as a link between member businesses and educational leaders from Middlesex County schools. I appreciate our keynote speakers’ willingness to speak to our group and thank Liberty Bank for its support of this event and of so many community initiatives.”

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

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

About Terrence Cheng- Terrence Cheng is chancellor of the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, which oversees 12 community colleges, four state universities and Charter Oak State College, and serves more than 85,000 students. The Board of Regents unanimously appointed Chancellor Cheng on May 7, 2021, and he began on July 2, 2021. He served as campus director of the University of Connecticut Stamford campus from 2016 to 2021, where he also served as a faculty member in the English department.

He has also held several academic and administrative leadership and faculty roles which include associate provost/assistant vice president, Academic Programs at Brooklyn College; and associate dean, School of Arts and Humanities, and chair, Department of English at Lehman College. Both institutions are part of the City University of New York.

Cheng, a first-generation student, earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Binghamton University and an MFA in fiction from the University of Miami, where he was a James Michener Fellow. He is the author of two novels: Sons of Heaven (2002), and Deep in the Mountains (2007), as well as numerous published short stories and essays. In 2005, he received a Literature Fellowship from the National Endowment for the Arts.

About President Dr. John Maduko - President John Maduko, M.D. serves as the inaugural president of Connecticut State Community College (CT State). He assumed office in June 2022, following a nationwide search and unanimous vote by the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities Board of Regents for Higher Education. He leads the largest institution of higher education in Connecticut, the largest community college in New England, and one of the largest community colleges in the country, serving over 70,000 students annually across 20 locations statewide. CT State is a comprehensive and open-enrollment college with a mission and values of student success and advancing opportunities for the residents and communities of Connecticut.

Maduko is focused on leading CT State as a student-centered, mission-driven, equity-minded, and data-informed higher-education practitioner. He is committed to an equity-by-design methodology to inspire the college community to be aware of the inequalities of students, especially in closing the opportunity-equity gap among minoritized, low-income, first-generation, and international college students.

Before his appointment at CT State, Maduko was the vice president for academic and student affairs at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State), Minnesota's fifth-largest community college, and a member of the 32 institutions and 380,000 students Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. He has served in various leadership roles, from vice president to vice chancellor, dean, and faculty for two-year and four-year institutions in Minnesota, Texas, Florida, and Georgia.

He is a 2018 Thomas Lakin fellow and 2021 Aspen Institute Rising Presidential Fellow, committed to student success reformation and equitable post-graduate outcomes. In addition, he serves on the College Board - Community College Advisory Panel, the ADL Connecticut - Regional Board of Directors, the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) - Advisory Committee of Presidents, the Connecticut Presidents’ Council, Governor Lamont’s Workforce Council, and the National Council of State Directors of Community Colleges (NCSDCC).

Maduko earned his doctor of medicine degree from St. Matthew’s University School of Medicine and a bachelor’s degree in biology from California State Polytechnic University Pomona, one of only three polytechnic universities in California.

He and his wife Amanda are the proud parents of Giovanni, Giuliana, and Luca.

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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May 5, 2024 - 2024 Side Street to Main Street Minority BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” PROGRAM Now Accepting Applications

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2024 Side Street to Main Street Minority BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” PROGRAM Now Accepting Applications

The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2024 Side Street to Main Street Minority BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” Program. Now entering its 13^th year, Side Street to Main Street

BUSINESS “KNOW-HOW” is designed specifically 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.

Business “Know-How” consists of four intensive entrepreneurial instructional sessions over a nine-week period and is offered free of charge to eligible minority participants. Virtual Class sessions are scheduled on TUESDAY EVENINGS: 6:15-10:30 PM on the following dates: May 21 - June 4/June 25 - July 9 with a Certificate of Completion Presentation Ceremony on July 16.

Sessions will be conducted online via ZOOM. All participants will need a Video Camera on a Desktop/Laptop Computer, or an Android/Apple Tablet/Phone. An Internet connection speed of at least 5Mb/sec and sufficient data plan is required to participate.

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.

To apply/register, or seek more information, contact Program Coordinator: Jennifer deKine

Email: jennifer@middlesexchamber.com