Chamber Chatbook: Chapter 10

CHAMBER CHATBOOK

WELCOME TO OUR CHAMBER!

Happy Spring!

Warmer days are here and we are busy gearing up for spring and summer. Mark your calendars and be sure to join us! For the car enthusiasts, our 6th Annual Car Show in partnership with Old Saybrook VFW Post 10153 in support of local veterans and veteran programs is Sunday June 2 at the Saybrook Auto Mall. 9am-12pm A huge thank you to Shoreline Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram and Shoreline Hyundai for their support and sponsorship – we couldn’t do it without you!

Just a short week after on June 10th we will host our 11th Annual Golf Tournament supporting the mission of the Chamber – Commerce, Culture, Community – at beautiful Fox Hopyard in East Haddam. Fox Hopyard is a private golf club right in our backyard and we are very thankful for their continued support. At the time of this publication, we have just a couple of available spots remaining - register today!

Congratulations to our 2024 Scholarship Winners – we will be announcing them by the end of the month. We are so pleased to award both the C. Wilfred Hunter Memorial Scholarship and the former Lyme / Old Lyme Chamber scholarship as well. What a talented group of young people – our future is bright!

Lastly, it is with tremendous mixed emotions that we bid a fond farewell to Hannah Stella, our crackerjack Marketing Coordinator. Hannah joined the Chamber team in 2022 after graduating from college with a Marketing degree and we have been so fortunate to have her these past 2 years. She gave her all to every project and brought a smile, enthusiasm and a bit of magic to the office every day.

We sure will miss you Hannah and wish you continued success on your life’s journey.

Onward!

Judy

26

BREWS & BUILDS: A LEGO BUILDING EVENT AT MYRCENE ALE CO.

39 Ragged Rock Road, Old Saybrook

Get ready for a brick-tastic time at our Lego building event for all ages. $40 per ticket includes your own 270 piece Lego kit and first beverage. In partnership with Old Tyme Toys.

2

MYRCENE ALE CO. TURNS 2!

39 Ragged Rock Road, Old Saybrook

Join us as we celebrate 2 incredible years of craft beer, community, and memories at Myrcene Ale Co.! Enjoy special beer releases, delicious delights from the Fact City Kid (1-6p) and the chance to win some awesome prizes in raffles.

20

MIDDLESEX UNITED WAY GOLF TOURNAMENT

Begins at 10:00 am Portland Golf Course, 169 Bartlett Street, Portland

Middlesex United Way will be hosting a Golf Tournament on Thursday, June 20 at Portland Golf Course. All money raised will stay local and be used to support the programs and agencies we run and partner with in the 15 towns that make up Middlesex County.

23

2ND ANNUAL CELEBRATE SAYBROOK STREET PARTY

2:00 - 7:00 pm Main Street, Old Saybrook

School’s out and fun’s in! A portion of Main St. will be closed to vehicle traffic to create a walking friendly zone with live music, food, craft beer, shopping & more!

CHAMBER CALENDAR

MAY MEETINGS

JULY MEETINGS

JUNE

First Thursday Business Connections

June & July, 8:00 - 9:00 am

Held the first Thursday of every month, this fast paced networking event provides members the opportunity to introduce their business, its offerings, and products. One member commented that, “the meeting was the equivalent of knocking on 40 doors in one hour.” Meetings are moderated. By reservation, a small number of attendees have three minutes to present their business. Free to attend! Members only.

Bridging Businesses Business Connections

May 24, 8:00 - 9:00 am

Join us at 8:00 am in Old Lyme for a fast paced, energetic meeting. Similar to 1st Thursday Business Connections, forge meaningful connections, foster collaboration between Old Saybrook and Old Lyme members, and unlock new opportunities for your business. It’s a networking hour designed for growth and partnership. Old Lyme Inn, 85 Lyme Street, OL.

Chamber Connections

May 16, 5:30 - 7:00 pm

This business after hours is hosted by a member and held the third Thursday every other month throughout the year. Whether you are a seasoned member or new to the community, discover the benefits of expanding your professional circle. The host will have the opportunity to showcase their business, whether it’s a new product or service, or even a new location.

Bridging Businesses Business Connections at Lyme Art Association

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

The Women in Business Council is dedicated to fostering a vibrant community of women entrepreneurs by providing a platform for inspiration, guidance, and networking. Each month, engaging events are hosted at various local restaurants, featuring dynamic speakers from diverse entrepreneurial backgrounds. Pre-register is required for all events. Click on event names below for more information and registration.

FLIP, FLOP, FUN!

Monday, June 24

Join us at Saybrook Point Pavilion for a fun, summer kick-off, after-hours! Take a bit of time for yourself before the hustle and bustle that the summer season always seems to be. Get inspired, laugh, have fun, and create meaningful connections with like-minded women in business.

Attending the Women in Business luncheons and networking events has been a game-changer for my business. The insightful discussions, friendships, and connections made, have not only expanded my professional network but also provided valuable insights that fueled business growth. I am grateful for the safe, empowering platform these gatherings have created for women entrepreneurs like myself and my clients.

Gina Johnson, Holistic Business Coach

Luncheon at Penny Lane Pub

Luncheon at Penny Lane Pub

After Hours at SIP Wine Bar

Summer is finally here! Your kids’ backpacks will settle into a small nook of your home and will soon be traded in for the family beach bag. If you’re headed to the beach this summer, Saybrook Reading has a few creative ideas to add to your beach bag!

1. Did you know your fingertips have over 3,000 touch receptors? Writing in the sand with two fingers (pointer and index) is a very powerful way for kids to learn their letters. Model the letter formation, say the sound of the letter, and then have your kids try!

2. Beach scavenger letter hunt! Give your kids an empty paper bag with the alphabet written on it. Have your kids’ collect items that start with the letter name. S for shell!

3. Did you know that you are your child’s best example of a reader? The more your kids see you read, the more it will motivate them to read. Trade in your phone for 30 minutes of reading your own book at the beach.

4. Level up your child’s background knowledge, vocabulary, and comprehension by reading a higher-level chapter book to your child during down time. Reading to your child strengthens family bonds, nurtures the love of reading, and boosts early literacy skills. Don’t know what to read? Go for the classics, Charlotte’s Web, anything by Roald Dahl or Harry Potter.

If you are ever stuck on ideas for summer or need more summer support, Saybrook Reading always offers free consultations to everyone! Call or text today 860-391-9648.

Sarah Fudge Director at Saybrook Reading

SUNDAY, JUNE 23, 2024

2:00 - 7:00 PM

What has more than 30 great food options, 5 local breweries, 5 bands, lots of family fun and entertainment and plenty of retail therapy opportunities? The Celebrate Saybrook Street Party! The second year of this annual welcome to the summer season promises great fun for the whole family as Main Street in Old Saybrook turns into a pedestrian walkway on Sunday, June 23rd from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. If you attended last year, this year’s event has MORE of everything that made it a special day.

Jamie’s Junk Show and Soul Sound Revue will headline our main stage, while those who prefer a mellower vibe can enjoy Jeremy Haddad, Frank Viele, and Seth Adam on our small stage. Additional entertainment includes a stilt walker, juggling acts, dancers and a wandering balloon artist. New this year is a climbing wall, corn hole and whack a mole as well as the town’s inflatable mister offering cooling spray for refreshment.

Most importantly, you will eat well with food options ranging from burgers to barbecue, gourmet hotdogs to lobster rolls and vegan, Mexican, Asian, Italian and more from food trucks and local Old Saybrook favorites. Don’t forget dessert with Italian ice, ice cream, frozen yogurt, cannoli, gourmet cookies and fried dough. Wash it all down with a libation from one of our local craft brewers.

For a complete list of participants and an event schedule visit celebratesaybrook.com. Say Old Saybrook!

Jennifer Donahue Director of Economic Development & Communications

Town of Old Saybrook

In Fond Memory of Todd Feibusch

In fond memory of Todd Feibusch, owner of Old Tyme Toys, whose unexpected passing has left a profound void in our community and hearts. His passion and love for his store waqs amazing and he was always looking to grow. As his daughter Veronica wrote, “He used to say he had the best job in the world because he got to make kids smile.” You will be dearly missed.

BUSINESS RESOURCES

Welcome back to ASK HR! Each issue will include answers to your questions regarding a variety of human resources-related topics to help you with some of the pressing needs of your business. Our expert is fellow member, Sheila McKinley-Bell of Shoreline HR Consulting, www.shorelinehr.com . Please feel free to let us know what questions are on your mind.

Today’s question is: Has there been a change in the legality of non-compete agreements? Yes, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has approved a ban on non-competes. Originally scheduled to take effect in August, the current effective date is September 4, 2024. However, many of the notices indicate there is a lot of legal push back so it remains to be seen if this decision will be carried out.

A non-compete agreement is a contractual agreement between an employer and an employee in which the employee agrees not to enter into or start a similar profession or trade in competition against the employer within a specified geographic area and for a certain period of time after leaving the company. These agreements are typically used to protect the company’s trade secrets, confidential information and customer relationships. Non-compete agreements have faced criticism for their potential to stifle innovation, limit job mobility and restrict employee rights. It can be argued that these agreements can create barriers to employment and entrepreneurship, particularly for low-wage workers who may be unable to negotiate favorable terms or challenge the enforceability of the agreement in court.

Proponents of non-compete agreements assert that they are essential for protecting proprietary information, encouraging investment in employee training, and maintaining a competitive edge in the market. The argument is that, without these agreements, companies would be vulnerable to unfair competition and exploitation of their intellectual property.

In conclusion, while non-compete agreements have played a significant role in today’s business environment by offering employers a means to protect their valuable assets and maintain a competitive advantage, their enforceability and fairness is and has been the subject of debate. Although the FTC has proposed a new rule that bans non-competes, the rule does not ban other forms of protection such as non-solicitation agreements (NSA), nondisclosure agreements (NDA), confidentiality agreements (CA) or employee non-recruitment agreements. The FTC has said those provisions are still valid so long as they do not have the effect of preventing someone from getting a job.

I recommend exploring the FTC.gov website for further information. Additionally, on May 7, 2024, the FTC published a document in the Federal Register that provides a comprehensive breakdown on the new rule: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/05/07/2024-09171/non-compete-clause-rule

Sheila can be reached online at sheila@shorelinehr.com or by phone at 860-256-9881.

Is it important to network in the busy summer season?

Networking plays a pivotal role in business, especially during the bustling summer season. Summer brings a surge of activity to the Connecticut shoreline, with tourists and locals alike eager to explore all that we have to offer. This heightened energy presents a prime opportunity for businesses and individuals to connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Networking in the summer season is crucial for fostering relationships that can lead to longterm partnerships and growth opportunities. Whether it’s through attending Chamber events, participating in community festivals, or simply mingling at local hotspots, networking allows businesses to expand their reach, attract new customers, and stay top-of-mind in a competitive market.

Moreover, the Summer season often brings a new group of visitors to our area, presenting a unique chance to showcase what makes our community special. By networking effectively, businesses can capitalize on this increased foot traffic, creating memorable experiences that keep customers coming back year after year.

In essence, networking during the busy summer season isn’t just about exchanging business cards or making small talk - it’s about building meaningful connections that lay the foundation in months and years to come. So be sure to make time for the Chamber’s events in the coming months, you won’t want to miss these opportunities for growth!

WHAT YOU MISSED

The Chamber Plays Pickleball! at the Old Saybrook Racquet Club

Did you know that Pickleball is one of the fastestgrowing sports in the US?

On Friday, May 3, the GOS Chamber headed to the OS Swim & Racquet Club to give it a try in our first Pickleball Tournament. Eight teams played in a round robin format for the winning trophy while enjoying a night filled with friendly competition. Thank you to all who participated!

The Hangry Goose team

AT THE CHAMBER Local Leader Spotlight with Heather Emanuelson

On Wednesday, May 8, the Progressive Leaders of Today (PLOT) had the wonderful opportunity to learn from Heather about her career at Cuckoo’s Nest, starting as waitress and now successful owner. On their outdoor patio, over 20 attendees enjoyed delicious drinks and snacks, networked with likeminded professionals, and got inspired. Follow PLOT on social media to stay up to date with any upcoming events or meetings! The next Local Leader Spotlight will be in Fall 2024. Location and presenter information to come...

Click here to find moreinformation about PLOT!

LET’S COOK! WITH FOODWORKS

PINEAPPLE SALSA

Ingredients

1 medium sized pineapple, cored and finely chopped

1 red bell pepper, finely diced

1 red onion, finely diced

3 jalapenos, deseeded and finely chopped

1 pack cherry tomatoes, finely chopped

1/2 bunch of fresh cilantro

1 tsp cumin

1/2 tsp salt

1/3 cup lime juice

1.

Prepare the pineapple by removing the core and chopping it into small pieces, add to the bowl.

2.

Dice the bell pepper, tomatoes, jalapenos, and red onion and add to the bowl with pineapple.

3.

Finely chop the cilantro and add to the bowl.

4. Serve and enjoy! 5.

Add in the lime juice, salt, and cumin and mix until all of the ingredients are well combined.

Do you have a great recipe you want to share? Click here to email

WE ARE HIRING! MARKETING COORDINATOR

Reports to: Chamber Executive Director

Position summary: Responsible for all Chamber marketing. Content design, campaign development, creation, scheduling and evaluation on all platforms and media including website, social media and print. Hourly, non‐exempt position at 20 hours per week. This position is an important part of the Chamber team and will provide an opportunity for the right individual to make an impact.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

Create marketing campaign content: graphics, social media posts, email content, video, blog posts, print

Website development and maintenance to continually improve user experience

Create and schedule the Chamber’s weekly electronic newsletter

Constant Contact Communications - build effective eblasts and campaigns that inspire action and involvement

Coordinate, design, and create bi-monthly digital multi-page magazine

Assist team in promoting members creatively through campaigns like Member Mondays

Support the Chamber’s overall marketing initiatives - Member Applications, Relocation/Welcome Packages

Press Releases - monthly Harbor News page, Events Magazine, OS Neighbors Magazine, Newspapers

Coordinate photography support at all Chamber events/programs - maintain database of photographs

Develop marketing campaigns for all Chamber events

Greet and assist visitors/residents; respond to and fulfill tourist inquiries

Other related duties as required

Qualifications:

Creative, friendly, works well individually as well as part of a team

Command of Microsoft Office, quickly adaptable to new software, quick learner

Knowledge of Constant Contact, Facebook, Instagram, Canva (a plus)

Willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done - meeting deadlines is a must

Graphic Design experience is a plus

High level of tact and diplomacy; ability to maintain confidentiality a must

Sense of humor

Compensation: $18/hour

Interested candidates should send resume, cover letter outlining interest in the position, and three references to Greater Old Saybrook Chamber Executive Director, Judy Sullivan, judy@oldsaybrookchamber.com

2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

OFFICERS

President: Dave Carswell, Guilford Savings Bank

1st Vice President: Kevin Kennedy, Kennedy Real Estate Solutions

2nd Vice President: Tony Marino, The Rockfall Foundation

Secretary: Kara Pachniuk, Nourish + Nosh Nutrition

Treasurer, Brendan Redfield, WollackLewitz

DIRECTORS

Chris Bird, Saybrook Point Resort & Marina

Brett Elliott, Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Cen

Gabriel Flugrad, North Cove Capital

CJ Jack, Shoreline Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram & S

Dan King, Lahan & King

Sally Ann Lee, Middlesex Health

Sharon Lewis, AdviCoach

Heather Milardo, The Estuary

Nancy Morin, Custom Designs & Embroidery

Christine Reynolds, Shore Appliances

Marnie Serksnas, Miranda Creative

Jennifer Waldron, Pizza Works

STAFF

Judy Sullivan, Executive Director

Christa Maynard, Member Services Manager

Hannah Stella, Marketing Coordinator

Mike DeLisa, Bookkeeper

2023 Car Show Committee

Chili Fest Volunteers

HOW TO ADVERTISE

Email info@oldsaybrookchamber.com to secure your spot. The Chamber is always looking for graphic advertisements, articles, topics, and ideas.

The Chamber Chatbook was created to provide readers with helpful Chamber and community information. Chapters are issued the second week of every other month. Deadline to submit advertisements or articles is the first of the issued month. Next Chapter releases in July 2024!

Advertisement Pricing:

Business Card - $40

Banner - $75

Half Page - $100

Event Listing - $40

thank you

Readers,

I am Hannah Stella, Marketing Coordinator at the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber. Co-creator of this digital magazine, the Chamber Chatbook. It has been an amazing experience to work alongside Judy and Christa from the beginning with just an idea, to now its 10th issue. As I am now finishing my last two weeks at the Chamber, I wanted to take a moment to thank the Chamber team, board, and greater Old Saybrook community for every experience, friendship, support, and trust that you have given me.

The GOSC team and board’s dedication to the Chamber and community has taught me just how powerful a Chamber can be, and I am honored to have been a part of it. With every member I have worked with, it has been an absolute pleasure.

I will always be cheering on the GOSC from afar! I have all the confidence that the Chamber will continue to thrive and make a positive impact in the community. While I am excited about the new opportunities that are ahead, leaving behind such an amazing Chamber and community is bittersweet.

Stay in touch!

With the warmest regards, Hannah Stella