ADVANCING THE ECONOMIC VITALITY AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN THE GREATER OLD SAYBROOK AREA
YOUR LOGO COULD BE HERE AS CHATBOOK PRESENTER! click for more information
The GOS Chamber is proud to welcome another member in the President Circle
How well do you know the Chamber President, Dave Carswell?
March, April, and May 2024 upcoming meetings
Common mistakes made by taxpayers explained...
One pan meal that’s delicious; low in carbs, but high in protein and flavor!
GOS Chamber Business Directory and Community Guidebook
5. New President Circle Member
7. Board of Directors Spotlight
12. Chamber Calendar
16. Business Resources
19. Chicken Feta Bake
22. Great Advertising Opportunity
15. Chili Fest 2024
18. Women in Business
I am so excited to share that 2024 is our 85th year supporting local businesses and organizations in the lower CT river valley area. With your continued support, enthusiasm, and roll-up-your-sleeves attitudes, we will continue our work for another 85 years.
The team and I have set a goal of adding 85 new members to the Chamber by 8/5/24.
This is the perfect time to join the chamber, as our 2024-25 Business Directory & Community Guide will be published in June and delivered to every home in the region. What business wouldn’t want to be part of that!
Can you help us? I encourage you to invite your neighbors, business partners, colleagues, and friends to become part of the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber. Your support in spreading the word about the benefits of GOSC membership is invaluable as we strive to strengthen our business community together.
Thank you for your continued support – we can’t do it without you.
All the best,
Judy Sullivan Executive Director Greater Old Saybrook Chamber
(860) 256-8478
noreastexteriors.com
Old Saybrook, CT Building & Construction
(860) 510-3185
evolvelifewellness.com
Old Saybrook, CT Holistic Healing & Wellness
(860) 460-5005
nicholeoconnorphotography.com
New London, CT Photography
(860) 249-7631
ctlighting.com
Hartford, CT Lighting
(860) 767-9768
ppseast.com
Essex, CT
Electronic payment & POS System Sales
(203) 843-2634
bluebirdhome.net
Madison, CT Home Organization
(860) 339-5429
atlasoutdoor.com
Old Saybrook, CT Fences, Sheds & Outdoor Structures
(917) 822-1712
mentoringcorps.org
Old Lyme, CT
Consultants
“Middlesex Hospital has once again been named one of the top 100 hospitals in the United States in the Thomson Reuters 100 Top Hospitals: National Benchmarks for Success study.”
The President Circle consists of an elite group of members who receive the ultimate yearlong support and visibility by making a signifcant financial investment in support of the Chamber’s initiatives, programs, and projects. Click here to find out more information.
sostrees.net Old
thehamiltonprincess.com
In the heart of the Chamber Chatbook this month, we shine a spotlight on an individual whose life’s narrative encapsulates the very essence of community spirit and entrepreneurial zest. Meet Dave Carswell, the esteemed President of the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce. A Virginia native, Dave’s early years were steeped in the vibrant hues of horse country and the bustling environment of a family-owned retail business. It was here, among the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains, that he imbibed a robust work ethic and a firsthand understanding of business and public engagement.
Now a devoted resident of the Greater Old Saybrook area, Dave, alongside his wife and two dogs, revels in the coastal charm and cultural richness of Connecticut’s shoreline. His profound attachment to this “best little slice of America” is palpable, reflecting his dedication not just to living in the area but to nurturing its growth and community spirit.
Professionally, Dave serves as the Business Branch Manager for Guilford Savings Bank in Old Saybrook, a role that mirrors his commitment to community service. His philosophy of community giving is not confined to his job; it spills over into his active participation in various local organizations. His contributions to the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber, the Old Saybrook Historical Society, and HOPE Partnership Inc. underscore his unwavering commitment to fostering housing opportunities and preserving local history.
Dave’s journey with the Chamber began in 2015, marking the start of an enduring relationship characterized by volunteerism and leadership. His ascent to the presidency was fueled by a lifetime of saying “yes” to opportunities for service, a lesson in leadership and humility he generously shares with his peers. Under his guidance, the Chamber has
seen remarkable growth and development, a testament to the collective efforts of its staff and volunteers.
As Dave approaches the end of his tenure, he looks forward with optimism to the Chamber’s continued evolution. His enthusiasm for the newly formed Tourism Committee and its potential to drive economic growth across various sectors encapsulates his vision for a thriving, interconnected community.
In echoing Dave’s call to action, we invite our readers to embrace the spirit of volunteerism. “When called upon, please say YES. Raise your hand and look for the opportunity to serve others.” Let’s join hands in advancing “Community, Culture, and Commerce,” guided by the inspiring leadership of individuals like Dave Carswell. Together, we can craft a future as vibrant and enduring as the shoreline we call home.
With winter almost in the rearview and spring just a few days away, the Old Saybrook Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for a season of special events! On Saturday, March 23rd we are hosting our 15th Annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by the Old Saybrook Lions. We will kick off the day at 11:00am for the 1st of three “hunts” to find the most chocolate and prizes that can fit in their baskets. Be on the lookout for six special eggs to win a top prize.
On Friday, March 29th we host our Annual Rock Hunt for all 4th-6th graders at Clark Community Park on Schoolhouse Rd. at 10:00am. In this fastpaced hunt through the trails, you are looking to find up to 10 colorful rocks and return them for prizes. There will be a lot of candy, special prizes and a ton of fun! Bring a bag or bucket to hold
your rocks. This event starts promptly at 10:00am. For those students looking for some fun during April Vacation, The Rec. will be hosting April Vacation Camp for those in K-5th grade. On Wednesday, the Camp will head to Lessard Lanes in Plainville for a day of bowling and indoor mini golf.
Lastly, we cannot start the spring season without our annual Ray Dobratz Fishing Derby. Bright and early on Saturday, April 27th we will see who can reel in the biggest fish of the day. We will have snacks, coffee, hot chocolate, and of course hot dogs! Prizes will be awarded in three age categories.
To register for all these events or for more information, please visit our website at www.oldsaybrookrec.com
Warmer weather is on the way! Living along the Connecticut Shoreline, many of us look forward to those initial outings on the water. It might be a sunny picnic cruise, glorious sunset, or even a ride out in the mist when shades of green blend together – any which way a return to the water beckons!
We started Seabird Cruises in 2021 and feature small group cruises for up to 6 passengers from May 1st through to October 31st from the Saybrook Point Marina. We have great options for 2 people celebrating, four people visiting, 5-6 gathering to simply enjoy the water together, multigeneration outings and whatever else you can dream up!
Seabird is a classic Dyer 29, New England picnic style power boat, comfortable and aesthetically pleasing with varnished wood trim
through-out the cockpit seating area. Pictures can be viewed at our Instagram site @Seabird_Cruises. Seabird Cruises is offering a May 2024 Special for Greater Old Saybrook Chamber members:
$250 for 1-6 passengers for any weekday Picnic Cruise (11am - 2pm); or Sunset Cruise (6pm - 8:309pm).
Come on out and enjoy the river or coastal Long Island Sound. We’ll support your outing and look forward to meeting. See you on the water!
Seabird Cruises
Chip Adams – Owner/Captain www.seabirdct.com203-245-3914
Drama Works Theatre Company of Old Saybrook is set to continue its 2024 season which began with The Baltimore Waltz, a play by Paul Vogel, and The God of Hell, by Sam Shepard. The theatre’s upcoming selections for this year include Five Women Wearing the Same Dress by Alan Ball, Mac Beth adapted by Erica Schmidt from William Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Two Rooms by Lee Blessing, and Venus in Fur by David Ives. This compelling mix of plays ensures the company’s dedication to fostering the talents of theatre artists and bringing high-caliber entertainment to the community.
At Drama Works Theatre, audiences find themselves transported to an intimate performance space where they can experience the impactful work
that artistic director, Ed Wilhelms, is committed to bringing to Connecticut. The 48 seat, off-Broadway style theatre is a hidden gem amid Old Saybrook’s thriving artistic community. Local actors may check online for audition updates throughout the year. Non-actors, especially those interested in set building, ushering, and stage managing are strongly encouraged to contact the theatre for opportunities.
Drama Works Theatre Company is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, resident performing arts company dedicated to the production of thought provoking, inspiring and relevant theatre. The theatre is located at 323 Boston Post Road. Tickets for the season and additional information are available through dramaworkstheatre.org.
21, Thursday: Ambassadors Meeting
22, Friday: Bridging Businesses Business Connections in Old Lyme
28, Thursday: Women in Business Luncheon at PLP APRIL MEETINGS
4, Thursday: First Thursday Business Connections
11, Thursday: PLOT Quarterly Zoom Meeting
16, Tuesday: Women in Business After Hours Event at SIP
18, Thursday: Ambassadors Meeting
MAY MEETINGS & EVENTS
2, Thursday: First Thursday Business Connections
Raffle Winners at the DLS Insurance Chamber Connections Click
3, Friday: 1st Annual Pickleball Tournament for Business!
8, Wednesday: Local Leader Spotlight with Heather Emanuelson
14, Tuesday: Chamber on Tap
16, Thursday: Ambassadors Meeting
16, Thursday: Chamber Connections at Berkshire Hathaway New England Properties
23, Thursday: Women in Business Luncheon with Suzanne McColl
March 22 8:00 - 9:00am
Join us at 8:00 am in Old Lyme for Bridging Businesses Business Connections! Forge meaningful connections, foster collaboration between Old Saybrook and Old Lyme members, and unlock new opportunities for your business. Networking hour designed for growth and partnership. Lyme Art Association. 90 Lyme St.
This business after hours is hosted by a member and held the third Thursday every few months throughout the year - check the calendar! 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. Time: 5:30 - 7:00 pm
Held the 1st 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. Time: 8:00 - 9:00 am, Vicky Duffy Pavilion, OS
On Saturday, March 2, 2024, the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber hosted its 27th Annual Chili Fest on Main Street in Old Saybrook. Over 20 chefs took on the task of making at least 18 gallons of chili for the public to sample and vote for their favorite.
The Chamber is thankful for all event sponsors, chefs, and attendees who braved the weather and thrilled of the significant amount of compostable material and funds raised for the Chamber’s scholarship. Additionally, the top three chefs earn a donation to a charity of their choosing.
Congratulations to all winners!
FIRST Place: Red House, Chef #2, “Three Chef’s Smokin’ Chili”
Charity: Valley Shore YMCA
SECOND Place: Gladeview Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, Chef #16, “No Mas”
Charity: Alzheimer’s Association, CT Chapter
THIRD Place: St. John School, Chef #19, “Mindy K’s Chili”
Charity: Saint John Catholic School
Judges Award: Little Pub, Chef #19
Spirit Award: Cuckoo’s Nest, Chef #5
Taxes are stressful for many individuals and can lead to a lot of procrastination. Here are some quick and easy ways to avoid common mistakes.
First, make sure not to file too late. The benefits of filing as early as possible are faster refunds, more flexibility with timing, you can avoid the rush with tax professionals and avoid unnecessary extensions. Filing early also gives you time to save if you want to make contributions to a retirement plan or need to make a larger than expected tax payment. Always make your payment before Tax Day. Extending your return does not grant you the ability to pay late, the IRS still expects full payment of any balances due before April 15th or you will be subject to penalties.
Another common mistake is not planning. This is where a year-round tax professional can offer a valuable service. Most taxpayers will have similar tax returns year after year. For those with small businesses or unexpected changes, the ability to pick up the phone and discuss how an event will change their current year taxes is invaluable. This gives you time to make estimated payments or save for the tax due at year end.
The final mistake is not reviewing your return before filing. The most common mistakes usually involve basic information. Misspelled names, wrong social security numbers, incorrect filing status and incorrect dependents are some of the most common errors.
Tax software has all but helped eliminate calculation errors but are only as good as the person using the software. If you’re not confident in your ability to do your own return, then it’s time to talk with a trusted tax advisor to get the most out of your return.
Brendan Redfield WollackLewitz
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: I am hearing that the IRS has made a change to the rules regarding how to differentiate between an independent contractor and an employee. Is that true and, if so, what is the difference?
Yes, it is true that the IRS has updated a final rule regarding the way in which to differentiate between an independent contractor and an employee. The article that appeared in this newsletter in May 2023 was based on the IRS final rule published on January 7, 2021.
On January 10, 2024, the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) published a new final rule revising the Department’s guidance on how to analyze who is an employee or independent contractor under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). This final rule rescinds the rule published on January 7, 2021 and replaces it with an analysis for determining employee or independent contractor status that is more consistent with the FLSA. The USDOL believes that this final rule will reduce the risk that employees are misclassified as independent contractors, while providing added certainty for businesses that engage (or wish to engage) with individuals who are in business for themselves. The final rule is scheduled to take effect on March 11, 2024.
The USDOL submits there is no single rule for determining whether an individual is an independent contractor or an employee for purposes of the FLSA. Rather, an “economic reality test” looks to the facts of a situation to assess economic dependence of an individual by
taking into account multiple factors by which to understand whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor, with no factor or factors having predetermined weight.
The final rule provides six factors that businesses and workers should consider when analyzing the economic realities of the working relationship. These factors are:
(1) Opportunity for profit or loss depending on managerial skill.
(2) Investments by the worker and the potential employer.
(3) Degree of permanence of the work relationship.
(4) Nature and degree of control.
(5) Extent to which the work performed is an integral part of the potential employer’s business; and
(6) Skill and initiative.
No one factor or subset of factors determines if an individual is an employee or independent contractor. Rather, all the circumstances of the relationship should be examined. The weight given to each factor may depend on the facts and circumstances of the relationship. Also, additional factors may be relevant if they in some way indicate if the worker is in business for themself as opposed to being economically dependent on the employer for work.
I recommend exploring the IRS.gov website for further information. In particular, the USDOL Small Entity Compliance Guide: https://www.dol. gov/agencies/whd/government-contracts/smallentity-compliance-guide
Sheila can be reached online at sheila@shorelinehr. com or by phone at 860-256-9881.
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-registration is required for all events. Click on event names below for more information.
Thursday, March 28
Luncheon at Penny Lane Pub, Old Saybrook
“Does Your Branding Support Your Business Strategy?” with Suzi Lee Schell & Kristy Tupper
Tuesday, April 16
After hours event at SIP Wine Bar, Old Saybrook
Mental Fitness: Growing the three core mental muscles that help you thrive even in challenging times with Melissa O’Hara
Thursday, May 23
Luncheon at Penny Lane Pub, Old Saybrook
Limiting Beliefs with Suzanne McColl
Leap Day, February 29, 2024. Half Day Event
“This was my first OS Chamber Event and it exceeded all my expectations. If you are new to the Chamber and want to surround yourself with some remarkable women, attend the next Women in Business Event!” -Cheryl Nadzam
“...an absolutley simple and delicious one pan meal! Low in carbs, but high in protein and flavor.”
Instructions
• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F
• Rinse and pat dry chicken (butterfly in half if whole chicken breast)
• Make rub with Italian seasoning, chili powder, salt and pepper. Pat rub on both sides of chicken. Heat an oven safe skillet to medium/high and add olive oil. Place chicken in pan and brown each side for about 3-4 minutes.
• Lower heat to medium and move chicken to the side of the pan. Add chopped garlic to the center of the pan.
• Add 1/2 cup chicken broth and squeeze in the juice of one half lemon (if you don’t have lemon you can substitute white vinegar/wine).
• Place block of feta in center of the pan.
• Scatter tomatoes over the entire pan.
• Put pan in the oven to bake for 20 minutes or until chicken reaches internal temp of 165 degrees F.
2 to 2.5 lbs organic chicken breast
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 ½ tsp chili powder
1 tsp sea salt (guideline salt to taste)
½ tsp pepper
1-2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
4 garlic cloves chopped
½ lemon
½ cup organic chicken broth
1 block feta cheese (in brine)
1 box grape tomatoes
Follow @WellnessWithKristinCT for more tips and recipes! Visit www.kristindepalma.com for more information.
The Greater Old Saybrook Chamber is thrilled to offer three scholarships to local, deserving graduating high school seniors. Two of the three scholarships are continued traditions from the Lyme-Old Lyme Chamber. All applications must be submitted to the Chamber by Friday, April 12, 2024 in person, by mail, or by email (info@goschamber.com).
Find eligibility requirements and applications on goschamber.com/scholarships
This scholarship was created in memory of Will Hunter by his family to honor his dedicated career as a teacher, a coach and his love of Old Saybrook. Mr. Hunter was the Executive Director of the Old Saybrook Chamber of Commerce from 1984 – 1989.
Click Here to View Application
Click Here to View Application
Click Here to View Application
Creation of the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber Business Directory & Community Guide for 2024-2025 is underway! 28,000 copies will be printed and distributed to every home in the Old Saybrook region. Copies will also be available at local hotels, visitor centers, and The Big E.
Take advantage of this amazing advertising opportunity! Interested? Contact Laura Carpenter at Shore Publishing. Phone: 860-304-3298 Email: l.carpenter@shorepublishing.com
Deadline is Friday, May 17th - ACT FAST! Publication date is June 27, 2024.
Deadline: May 17th
Publication: June 27th
Looking to connect with other local businesses but don’t know where to start? Join us at Chamber on Tap to get your business match(es) made in heaven! Meet the right people with matched introductions specific to you. More success with less stress!
Tuesday, May 14. 5:30 - 8:00 pm
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 Center
Gabriel Flugrad, North Cove Capital
CJ Jack, Shoreline Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram & Shoreline Hyundai
Dan King, Lahan & King
Sally Ann Lee, Middlesex Health
Sharon Lewis, AdviCoach
Heather Milardo, The Estuary
Nancy Morin, Custom Designs & Embroidery
Jonathan Paradis, Old Saybrook Parks & Recreation
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
Email hannah@oldsaybrookchamber.com to secure your spot. The Chamber is always looking for graphic ads, articles, topics, ideas, and more!
NEW in May: Community Event Listings! For only $40 per event, get your events exclusively shared. Photo included. Inquire for more information - great opportunity!
The Chamber Chatbook was created to provide readers with helpful Chamber and community information. If you have any suggestions, please let us know! Chapters are issued the second week of every other month with a deadline to submit advertisements or articles of the first of said month. Next Chapter releases in May 2024.
