Fairfield County Business Journal - 031113

Page 1

FAIRFIELD COUNTY

BUSINESS JOURNAL YOUR ONLY SOURCE FOR REGIONAL BUSINESS NEWS | westfaironline.com

BUSINESS OWNERS persevere in Fairfield County’s northernmost town despite population declines … 2

SEA CHANGE

GRAPHIC BY DAN VITERI

FCBJ this week

March 11, 2013 | VOL. 49, No. 10

corporations Join adVocacy groups By tHe Hundreds in supreme court cHaLLenge to defense of marriage act.

BY PATRICK GALLAGHER pgallagher@westfairinc.com

A

ECONOMISTS CALL on Congress to lower the corporate tax rate and eliminate loopholes … 3

s the U.S. Supreme Court examines the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act, corporate America has rallied for gay marriage in what legal and business experts described as a “seismic” cultural shift. Hundreds of corporations, law practices, advocacy groups and local governments have signed briefs that were filed late last month with the Supreme Court in support of Edith Schlain Windsor, who is challenging the section of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) that defines marriage as “a legal union between one man and one woman” and a spouse as “a person of the opposite sex.” In one brief filed Feb. 28 in the case United States v. Windsor, 278 businesses, law firms, governments and other organizations called for the federal definition of marriage to be broadened to include samesex couples.

BUSINESSES AWAIT word of sequestration impacts as state agencies are preparing for cutbacks … 5

CONNECTICUT EXPORTS to China are at $2 billion over the last two years … 13

MEDIA PARTNER

» Sea Change, page 6

Minority business center returns to Bridgeport BY JENNIFER BISSELL jbissell@westfairinc.com

A GROWING MINORITY BUSINESS development center has returned to Bridgeport after more than a decade away. The Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council, which originated in Bridgeport in 1976, helps to connect about 250 corporate members with 500 suppliers that are minority-owned businesses. Since its founding, the council

+

INSIDE: PAGE 15

has helped to facilitate more than $4 billion in contracts. “For a number of reasons the minority community hasn’t been as plugged-in in this country,” said council CEO Fred McKinney. “We’re there to make those connections.” The council moved its headquarters to Hamden in 2000 and opened a satellite office in Boston in late 2011, but McKinney said the organization has decided to move back to Bridgeport, where he said there is a higher concentra-

tion of minority-owned businesses. Plus, he said, the council will be in close proximity to the large corporate community in Fairfield County. In relocating back to Bridgeport, the council hopes to double both is corporate and minority memberships. The Boston office will also remain open. “Being in a city like Bridgeport will make it easier for us to connect with both our major stakeholders: large corporations » Minority, page 6

JUDGE RULES HEALTHBRIDGE CAN CURTAIL EMPLOYEES’ BENEFITS AS 8-MONTH STRIKE ENDS


For the love of Sherman

IGA owner Michael Luzi proudly stands at the old fireplace in his Sherman store.

BY JENNIFER BISSELL jbissell@westfairinc.com

R

unning a small business in a higher-cost environment is hard enough. But in a small town that’s becoming even smaller, the ability to survive can be even more challenging. In Sherman, the northernmost town in Fairfield County, roughly a dozen storefronts make up the heart of the

downtown. The community started as a farming town but has since grown into a larger retirement community and weekend destination on the northern tip of Candlewood Lake. The nearest major highway is 10 miles away and the city’s largest employers are the school district and government. “We have a lot going for us,” said Gloria Throne, a Sherman resident and president of the town’s historical society. “We’re just a quiet little town and we like it. We like it a lot.” Yet according to 2010 census data, Sherman is the fastest-shrinking town in Connecticut. From 2000 to 2010, the town’s population decreased 6.4 percent to less than 3,600 residents. In contrast, less than 30 miles away, the population of Oxford increased 29 percent to 12,700, during the same time period. Michael Luzi, who owns the Sherman IGA grocery store, said he’s felt a definite lull over the past five years. From about 1995 to 2005, he said, there was a big boom of development and population growth. His store would be packed with customers and new faces, but business has since declined. Luzi said it could be the result of a population decrease, but also suggested the younger generations don’t have as much loyalty toward the local shops, despite their locavore mantras. It’s hard

for him to compete with the big grocery stores outside of town. “Businesses in town have a very hard time,” he said. “A lot of times I think you wonder why you’re doing it in a small town like this. But I’m doing it because I love the little town and I’ve been here for so many years, I can’t leave. I love the people that are my customers.” Having owned the store for nearly 30 years, Luzi said he doesn’t think he would be forced to close down, even though similar stores in Connecticut towns have gone out of business recently. Luzi said he doesn’t have any debt and can afford to occasionally operate at a loss. But any new business owner would likely struggle to survive, he noted. Most of Luzi’s profits come from “weekenders” who spend their summers at Candlewood Lake. Plus, the cost of starting a business and running it is “just staggering,” he said, citing the cost of electricity and health insurance for his employees. Still, Luzi, who knows all his customers’ names, said he would never leave. “I think it’s the most beautiful little town in New England,” Luzi said. “If I had to do it all over, I’d do it again, exactly the same way.” Sherman First Selectman Clay Cope said the town’s population has grown

since 2010, but he was unsure by how much. Cope said town revenues, including income tax collections, haven’t noticeably decreased. Demand for town services, especially among seniors, has increased and the real estate market is stable, Cope said. Homes are being sold and not just to New York vacationers. Lately, he said, residents from neighboring towns with higher taxes have been moving to the area. “We’re not really feeling a huge effect,” Cope said. “From my perspective, houses sell and people buy them and people move in. It’s a changing in demographics. Some move in with children and some move in from Pawling (New York).” The town’s population may be at risk of decreasing, but the town has continued to make improvements for its residents, including an upgrade to its library, roads and emergency services, Cope said. Enrollment in the kindergarten through eighth grade is about 100 students fewer than it was at its peak a few years ago. But other effects of a shrinking town haven’t been felt. “It’s not a town that has a lot of people moving in and out all the time,” Throne said. “I doubt that it will become much else either. People want to keep it just as it is.”

REAL ESTATE IN BRIEF

SPANISH BANK TO STAY IN STAMFORD

Abbey National Treasury Services, a unit of Spanish banking giant Santander Group, has signed a long-term lease renewal for its U.S. headquarters at 400 Atlantic St. in Stamford. Keeping Abbey National at 400 Atlantic St. with an 18,000-square-foot lease renewal “was a major win” for the property, said Scott Landis, principal of real estate development and management firm The Landis Group. Other tenants at the 15-story, 500,000-square-foot building include UBS A.G., American Express and Harmon Kardon. Last year, The Landis Group also reached a 75,000-square-foot lease deal with cable provider Charter Communications, which is moving its headquarters to Stamford from St. Louis. The building, which is located across I-95 from the Stamford Metro-

North Railroad station, was recently named Office Building of the Year by the Southern Connecticut Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA). Banco Santander, headquartered in Santander, Spain, is among the largest banks in Europe.

NONPROFIT INKS NORWALK LEASE

The nonprofit Family & Children’s Agency has signed a 10-year, 9,000-square-foot lease at 140 Water St. in Norwalk, a freestanding property owned by David Anspach, CBRE Group Inc. announced. The agency is in the process of relocating from a nearby 6,000-square-foot property. The building owner was represented by Silver Pine Real Estate of Wilton, while CBRE’s David Block and Barbara Segalini-Stilley negotiated the lease on behalf of Family & Children’s Agency.

2 Week of March 11, 2013 • FairField County Business Journal

HOME PRICES RISE AGAIN

Fairfield County home prices increased 5.8 percent in January year-over-year, according to a new CoreLogic report. Continued increases in home prices is the final step needed to make a full recovery in the real estate market, experts say. Statewide, home prices were up 2.3 percent in January and nationwide, home prices increased 9.7 percent compared to January 2012.

DEVELOPER INSTALLS ELECTRIC CHARGING STATIONS

RFR Realty L.L.C. has installed electric vehicle charging stations at four of its seven Stamford developments, including three of the four Stamford Plaza office buildings and at 300 Atlantic St. The project is part of a collaboration with Connecticut Light & Power

Co., with RFR Realty among 30 local companies and municipalities that have agreed to install and maintain vehicle charging stations. Use of the stations installed at RFR Realty’s properties is available free of charge to tenants. “We are keeping up with and anticipating the requests and needs of our tenants with this proactive initiative,” said Frank Kozak, general manager of RFR Realty, in a statement. “RFR is excited to take advantage of the opportunity to become a leader in clean technology. It will help us to make future decisions about the type of infrastructure that is needed in our buildings as the vehicles become more common.” — Jennifer Bissell and Patrick Gallagher


Economists call for corporate tax reform BY JENNIFER BISSELL jbissell@westfairinc.com

G

eneral Electric Co. made headlines in the spring of 2011 when reports surfaced that the company paid no corporate income taxes the previous year while claiming a net tax benefit of more than $3 billion. While Fairfield-based GE has disputed the notion it pays no income taxes, numerous studies and reports have pointed to dozens, if not hundreds, of large corporations that pay little to no income taxes just as others are weighed down by the high corporate tax rate. In response to some of those discrepancies in the tax code, a group of renowned economists and academics recently sent a letter to congressional leaders calling for a budget-neutral package of corporate tax reforms that would involve lowering the current tax rate and closing loopholes. The group included academics from Columbia University, George Mason University and Georgetown University, as well as economists from the Brookings

Institution, Precision Economics, American Enterprise Institute and the American Consumer Institute, among others. “A high corporate tax rate impairs our ability to attract domestic and foreign investment, undermines job creation and reduces wages, and distorts financial and economic decision making by U.S. firms,” the letter said. “Reducing the corporate tax rate would improve the allocation of resources throughout the economy and would increase productivity and living standards.” The U.S. corporate tax rate is the highest in the world at 35 percent, which is 10 percentage points above the global average, according to the group. Because of the high rate, companies are more likely to locate abroad, the group wrote, noting that from 2000 to 2011, the number of Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the U.S. decreased by 26 percent. Meanwhile China, Korea and Switzerland, all of which have corporate tax rates at or below 25 percent, have seen “sizable” increases. During his State of the Union address, President Barack Obama renewed his

GO... or stay

call for corporate tax reforms that would eliminate loopholes and deductions for the “well-off and well-connected.” U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, a Greenwich Democrat, said he believes there’s interest on both sides of the aisle to reform corporate taxes but that it will be a difficult task to achieve. More than a year ago, Obama unveiled a plan to lower the corporate tax rate to 28 percent while closing loopholes elsewhere, but little progress has been made toward a bipartisan solution. “I’m all in favor of eliminating as many loopholes as possible, but it’s hard to do that,” Himes said, noting that anyone or any company that benefits from those loopholes would likely fight against their elimination. Companies with significant accounting resources have seemingly benefitted from the abundance of loopholes and deductions. In 2012, the U.S. Treasury lost roughly $150 billion in revenue through corporate tax breaks and loopholes, according to an analysis of federal budget data by the Brookings Institution. Because of these reductions, the effec-

tive tax rate is closer to 18.5 percent on average, according to Washington, D.C. think tank Citizens for Tax Justice (CTJ), making the rate one of lowest of any developed country. “Some of these companies are paying absolutely nothing in taxes,” said CTJ Director Robert S. McIntyre. A 2011 report on 280 corporations conducted by CTJ found that nearly a third paid no federal income tax in at least one of the three previous years, while 30 of those surveyed recouped more federal dollars than they paid in taxes in one of the previous three years. Among the companies examined were GE, which averaged a net gain from 2008 to 2010, General Dynamics, which averaged a 27 percent effective rate, United Technologies, which averaged a 10 percent effective rate, and Pitney Bowes, which averaged a 30.4 percent rate. “(Congress) should fix the system that they’ve allowed to become such a colossal mess,” McIntyre said. “If you crack down on corporate tax abuse, then you won’t have to cut programs that benefit ordinary people.”

your new space awaits

find the right office, retail, medical or industrial space and get a great lease to go with it

RakowGroup will locate all properties meeting your requirements and advise you on which locations and buildings are best for you. Then we’ll help you negotiate a lease with more of the terms and conditions you want... at no cost to you.

call today (203) 359-5703 x10 FairfieldOfficeSpace.com 6 Landmark Square • Stamford, CT 06901

RAKOW

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013

3


FAIRFIELD COUNTY

BUSINESS JOURNAL

PERSPECTIVES

Blumenthal to NLRB: Act now THE FOLLOWING ARE EXCERPTS FROM A MARCH 5 LETTER SENT FROM SEN. RICHARD BLUMENTHAL TO LAFE SOLOMON, THE ACTING GENERAL COUNSEL OF THE NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD. “I write to express my concern and disappointment regarding yesterday’s ruling by Judge Donald Steckroth of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of New Jersey in the case In re 710 Long Ridge Road Operating Company II L.L.C., et al. Judge Steckroth’s ruling threatens to rob hundreds of Connecticut workers of their hard-won pay and benefits, and it is essential that your office take action to prevent this from occurring. “As you know, in July of last year, nearly 600 workers at five nursing home facilities in Connecticut operated by HealthBridge Management L.L.C. went on strike in protest of new terms and conditions that were deemed to be illegally imposed on them. HealthBridge

manages these facilities on behalf of a number of companies. These companies, which filed for bankruptcy jointly in New Jersey in the above-mentioned case, all share a corporate relationship with HealthBridge. “This past December, after your office sought an injunction against HealthBridge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Connecticut, Judge Robert Chatigny issued such an injunction ordering HealthBridge to allow the workers to return under the terms of their old contract. Although HealthBridge sought an emergency stay of this injunction, appealing all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court, their request was ultimately denied and the injunction stood.

THEY SAID IT “Living in Fairfield County can be very expensive for a lot of my constituents. Many of them work two to three jobs and still struggle to get by. This bill speaks to the needs of those constituents, and as their representative I feel it is my responsibility to support it.” — State Senator Andres Ayala, a Bridgeport Democrat. The Connecticut General Assembly will vote on a bill to raise the state’s minimum wage from $8.25 to $9.75 after the bill was approved by the Labor and Public Employees Committee.

“Think about what this means to a small business owner who is dealing now with slower sales and rising costs. This legislation guarantees that some businesses will never catch up.” — Andrew Markowski, director of the Connecticut chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business.

“On an inflation-adjusted basis, GDP per capita more than quadrupled between 1941 and 2012. Throughout that period, every tomorrow has been uncertain. America’s destiny, however, has always been clear: ever-increasing abundance.” – Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Inc., in his annual letter to shareholders.

“Only days ago, I stood with HealthBridge workers in Milford to celebrate their victory in their long-running fight for fair pay and benefits. The workers were overjoyed, as was I, that

JUDGE STECKROTH’S RULING THREATENS TO ROB HUNDREDS OF CONNECTICUT WORKERS OF THEIR HARD-WON PAY AND BENEFITS, AND IT IS ESSENTIAL THAT YOUR OFFICE TAKE ACTION TO PREVENT THIS FROM OCCURRING.

• • • • •

Main office telephone . . . . . . . (914) 694-3600 Newsroom fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . (914) 694-3680 Sales fax. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (914) 694-3699 Research fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . (914) 694-3682 Editorial e-mail pgallagher@westfairinc.com

Or write to: Fairfield County Business Journal 3 Gannett Drive, Suite G7 White Plains, N.Y. 10604-3407 www.westfaironline.com Publisher • Dee DelBello Managing Editor • Bob Rozycki

News

Fairfield County Bureau Chief • Patrick Gallagher Editor, Digital Content • Jessica Mola Reporters • Jennifer Bissell • John Golden • Tarice Gray • Andrea Kennedy • Mary Shustack

Advertising Sales

Account Managers • Greg Fernandez • Rick Johnson • Dan Vierno

— Sen. Richard Blumenthal Publications Manager • Michael Berger

they would now be back on the job and fairly compensated for their work. This is why I was dismayed to learn that the Bankruptcy Court’s ruling could force these workers to go at least six more weeks without the pay and benefits they are owed. “I urge you to take appropriate legal action to ensure that these workers receive the pay and benefits that the District Court determined they are owed. This matter has dragged on for far too long, and these workers cannot afford six more weeks of inadequate pay and benefits. The District Court issued an injunction for a reason: this is a matter of urgency for these workers and their families. The employers should continue to fully comply with the District Court’s injunction and your office should ensure that the injunction continues to be fully enforced.” Blumenthal, Connecticut’s senior U.S. senator, is a Democrat on the Senate Armed Services, Judiciary, Commerce, Veterans Affairs’ and Aging committees.

Programs and Projects Coordinator • Beverly Visosky

Production

Senior Art Director • Caitlin Nurge Harrison Art Director • Dan Viteri

Audience Development

Director • Alissa Frey Circulation Representative • Marcia Rudy Research Reporter • Elizabeth Beneke Audience Development and Events Coordinator • Holly DeBartolo

Administration

Events Manager • Kyra Feldman Office Manager • Sylvia Sikoutris

Fairfield County Business Journal (USPS# 5830) is published Weekly, 52 times a year by Westfair Communications, Inc., 3 Gannett Drive, White Plains, NY 10604. Periodicals Postage rates paid at White Plains, NY 10610 and additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Fairfield County Business Journal: Westfair Communications, Inc., 3 Gannett Drive, White Plains, NY 10604. More than 40 percent of the Business Journal is printed on recycled newsprint. © 2013 Westfair Communications Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited

NYC METRO Business JournaLs

HAVE YOUR SAY We want to hear from you! Have an opinion column, letter to the editor or story idea? Send it to us! Please include your name, home or business address, email and phone number. We reserve the right to edit all submissions and publish them in print or online. EMAIL SUBMISSIONS TO PGALLAGHER@WESTFAIRINC.COM

4 Week of March 11, 2013 • FairField County Business Journal


Sequester takes effect with little fanfare BY JENNIFER BISSELL AND PATRICK GALLAGHER jbissell@westfairinc.com and pgallagher@westfairinc.com

T

he effects of the now-infamous sequester, which took effect March 1, will likely not be felt in earnest until April, government officials and public policy experts say. Furlough notices began circulating for federal employees last week, while defense contractors are waiting to hear how they will be impacted by the cuts. They will total $85 billion for the 2013 federal fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30. Late last month, Pratt & Whitney marked the completion of renovations to its Middletown engine center, where the company tests and ships nearly all of the commercial and military jet engines it produces. A spokeswoman said the company expects to significantly increase production of its PurePower PW1100G-JM engines, which will power the Airbus A320neo, and its F135 engines, which will power the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter for the U.S. military. “Within the next two to three years

we will ramp up to phenomenal volume based on our projected orders,” said Stephanie Duvall, spokeswoman for Pratt & Whitney. Duvall said Pratt & Whitney, a unit of Hartford-based United Technologies Corp., has not yet learned whether the F-35, which is being jointly developed by the Army, the Air Force and the Navy, could see funding cuts as a result of the sequester. The F-35 program is the most expensive defense appropriation in U.S. history. The estimated cost for constructing the more than 2,400 stealth jets has risen from $233 billion in 2001 to $395 billion. In Connecticut, state officials are bracing for roughly $58.7 million in lost federal funding for the 2013 fiscal year, which for Connecticut runs through June 30. Office of Policy and Management Secretary Ben Barnes warned state agencies to prepare for reduced or ceased programming, as the state does not intend to make up or replace the lost funding. “These cuts promise to be unnecessarily disruptive of government services and may also serve to further weaken Connecticut’s economy,” Barnes wrote in a letter.

Stay or go even If you have tIme left on your lease...

Already the state is facing a $131.3 million projected budget deficit for the fiscal year, according to a March 1 estimate by the Comptroller’s Office. The majority of cuts will hit programs related to health, education, children and military readiness, according to fact sheets released by the White House. Initially, an estimated 3,000 U.S. Department of Defense employees working in Connecticut could be furloughed and two Navy demolition projects at New

AVAILABLE FOR LEASE 3000-6000 SquARE FEEt OF BEAutIFuLLy FuRnIShEd (OR unFuRnIShEd) OFFIcE SpAcE In WhItE pLAInS; FREE pARkIng, gym, cAFEtERIA; 3-7 yEAR tERm. Call Linda at (914) 517-5000

you don’t have to move to get a better lease

RakowGroup Tenant Representatives can help you get a better lease with more of the terms and conditions you want... at no cost to you.

call today (203) 359-5703 x10 FairfieldOfficeSpace.com 6 Landmark Square • Stamford, CT 06901

London could be canceled, according to the White House. U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, a Greenwich Democrat, expressed anger at the lack of congressional action to prevent the sequester. “It’s embarrassing but not surprising that there hasn’t been any movement toward a deal because House and Senate Republican leaders continue to hold any progress — on jobs, on deficit reduction, on civil rights — hostage,” Himes said.

RAKOW

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013

5


SEA CHANGE — » From page 1

They argue that firms operating in states that have legalized gay marriage, like Connecticut, are “burdened” by “this dual regime” in which gay couples are entitled to state benefits but denied federal benefits. “We favor a simple rule: that the federal government will not hinder an employer from treating all of its married employees in the same way,” said Susan Millerick, a spokeswoman for Aetna Inc., which is based in Hartford and was one of the signers. “We want to create the best, most productive workplace environment possible. ... It ill serves that objective when the federal government obliges us to treat one set of married employees differently than another.” The signers of the Feb. 28 brief, which range in the words of observers “from Apple to Zynga,” represent a who’s who of Wall Street and include Citigroup, Facebook, Goldman Sachs, Intel, Johnson & Johnson, Microsoft, Nike, UBS and Walt Disney Co., among others. In addition to Aetna, Connecticut companies on the brief include Diageo North America Inc., a Norwalk-based

MINORITY — » From page 1

and minority businesses,” McKinney said. “Frankly we haven’t done as well in Fairfield County and I know we could do better.” Already, the organization’s list of corporate members includes Pitney Bowes Inc., Xerox Corp., Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc. and United Technologies Corp., which are among the county’s largest employers. In 2011, the council’s minority members had more than $13 billion in sales and employed more than 60,000 employees, half of whom were minorities. The group estimates that for every $96 invested, the council generates $1 million in new contracts. McKinney said contracting with minority businesses is not only the right thing to do, but increasingly has become the smart thing to do as well. “If you’re not paying attention to diversity in marketing, hiring or supplier diversity, then you are probably not maximizing the value of your company,” McKinney said, pointing to the fact that

premium beverages business; Thomson Reuters, which is based in New York City and has a significant corporate presence in Stamford; UBS AG, which has its North American headquarters in Stamford; Xerox Corp., based in Norwalk; the Connecticut Alliance for Business Opportunities and the city of Hartford. Michelle Phillips, a partner with workplace law firm Jackson Lewis L.L.P., said there are more than 1,000 laws that are impacted by the definition of “spouse.” “This issue of overturning DOMA calls into question a number of potential issues, and this is an area where corporations are leading the way and the law is behind,” said Phillips, who works in the firm’s White Plains, N.Y., office and who is co-chair of the firm’s LGBT employee resource group. Phillips said federal income tax rates and workplace benefits such as health insurance, pensions or employee relocation packages are all impacted by DOMA. Additionally, she said the outcome of the Supreme Court challenge will likely impact the Family and Medical Leave Act, which entitles employees of covered employers to take a leave of absence for specific family and medical reasons with the guarantee that their jobs and certain benefits will be protected.

the United States will soon become a majority-minority population, much like Bridgeport. McKinney said there’s also a social benefit to contracting with minority businesses, noting that minority business owners are likely to spread the positive word to their communities. Peter Hurst Jr., CEO of The Community’s Bank in Bridgeport and a member of the council, agreed. “If you look at the demographics in this country, the ethnic minority population is growing,” Hurst said. “For those corporations that think it’s strategically important to do business with minority-owned businesses, it’s not just a new source of revenue. Their customer base looks at their contracting records and it could actually help them generate customers in their broader market.” Hurst said he was glad to see the group moving back to Bridgeport and only a few blocks away from his office. Between 50 and 100 accounts of his were referred to his bank through the council. “It’s a great resource for finding real opportunity, both with corporate and minority members,” Hurst said. “It’s a tremendous resource for us.”

6 Week of March 11, 2013 • FairField County Business Journal

The current challenge to DOMA began with Edith “Edie” Windsor, a New York resident who married longtime partner Thea Spyer in 2007 in Toronto. When Spyer died two years later, samesex marriages performed in other jurisdictions were recognized as legal marriages under New York law. However, Windsor was forced to pay more than $363,000 in federal estate taxes on her inheritance. If DOMA did not exist, Windsor would have paid no federal estate taxes. Phillips reiterated that employers are taking the lead, pointing to the corporate support for Windsor’s case. “I believe there have been seismic changes in the culture of companies and I see that at the highest levels of organizations,” Phillips said. “What you’re seeing is that in order to be an employer of choice, you need to attract a diverse culture and that, of course, includes people of other lifestyles.” A Xerox spokeswoman said the firm “has had a long history of supporting a diverse and inclusive environment in our company, so that translated to supporting this (brief).” At Aetna, where CEO Mark Bertolini is on the board of directors of the National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, Millerick said DOMA “forces an employ-

er to put its lawfully married employees into two categories,” which she said creates regulatory, tax, benefit and morale problems. For example, she said, “where most health care benefits are concerned, the law makes an employer withhold more from the W-2 of a lawfully married employee if his spouse is of the same sex than if not.” Edwards Wildman Palmer L.L.P., a Boston law firm with offices in Stamford and Hartford, signed the Feb. 28 brief, with a representative citing practical and philosophical rationales. “The pragmatic issue is DOMA imposes real burdens on a business like ours,” said Daryl Lapp, partner and co-chair of the firm’s litigation department. With 600 attorneys and hundreds more support staff — many of whom work in offices in states that have passed laws legalizing same-sex marriage — “it creates a real burden on your HR department to keep track of all the ways you have to deal with employees with same-sex spouses differently for the purposes of federal and state law.” Additionally, Lapp said, “Culture is important. ... You want to be treating your employees in a way that is absolutely fair and consistent across the board, and yet here is this law that requires us to discriminate.”

Sturm, Ruger running ‘flat-out’ The CEO of Southport gun manufacturer Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc. said the company’s production lines have “been running pretty much flat out since December 2010” to meet surging demand. In 2012, the company posted its highest annual profit in at least 25 years as fear among gun owners of stricter regulations has led to record sales across the firearms industry. Ruger, which is the second-largest publicly traded U.S. gunmaker by sales, reported fourth-quarter 2012 earnings growth of 85 percent compared to the previous year on strong sales and new product introductions, the company recently announced. For 2012, Ruger, which has manufacturing facilities in Newport, N.H., and Prescott, Ariz., earned $3.60 per share on net sales of $491.8 million, compared with 2011 earnings of $2.09 per share and sales of $328.8 million. CEO Michael O. Fifer attributed the 77 percent annual earnings increase in part to new products introduced over the year. New products, like the Ruger

American rifle, the 10/22 TakeDown rifle and the SR22 pistol, among others, accounted for 38 percent of the company’s 2012 firearms sales. The company estimated that the quantity of Ruger units sold from distributors to retailers increased 73 percent in the fourth quarter compared to the fourth quarter of 2011, and increased 63 percent for the year compared to 2011. Last year, Ruger increased its capital base by 13 percent but saw a 52 percent increase in production, and sold nearly 1.7 million units after selling just over 1.1 million units in 2011. “As you’ve heard me say in prior years, a busy factory is a happy factory,” Fifer said on a Feb. 28 conference call with investors. When pressed on his expectations for 2013, Fifer declined to speculate, saying, “The forward-looking part, I’m not going to answer at all. I’m not forecasting increases. I’m not forecasting percentages.” — Patrick Gallagher


Investors tout angel funding BY PATRICK GALLAGHER pgallagher@westfairinc.com

I

nvestors set aside worries over the sequestration cuts last week as financial markets caught fire, with the Dow Jones industrial average closing at record highs on consecutive days. In angel investing, though, the truism remains that “there is no free lunch,” investors and financial professionals said at a Feb. 28 panel discussion, “Angel Investing 101 – Best Practices,” held at the Stamford Innovation Center. For those willing and able to act as “angels” for budding companies, however, the returns can far exceed those of most any other asset class, said David Teten, partner of ff Venture Capital and chairman of the Harvard Business School (HBS) Alumni Angels of Greater New York, which hosted the event. “Angel investing is very risky,” Teten said, noting that it wouldn’t be unheard of for an angel investor to back 20 companies and see no returns. But, he said, it “allows you, as an investor, to get much better returns on average than you’re likely to get in other asset classes.” Angel investments are sought by startups after they have exhausted their friends and family but before they seek the backing of venture capital firms. While venture capital firms generally invest funds on the behalf of institutional investors and other large funds, angel investments are made primarily by individuals, either acting alone or as part of a group, such as HBS Alumni Angels. In successful angel ventures, it can take investors as many as 10 or 20 years before they see a return on their investments — if they see a return at all, Teten said. But the results speak for themselves, Teten said. He cited a dozen studies of angel investments published from 2002 to 2012 that show the average internal rate of return ranges from 18 percent to 54 percent. Teten said successful angel investing generally requires a combination of patience, due diligence, a high tolerance for risk, ample funds and a network of fellow investors. While the majority of companies that receive angel funding may never measure up to their initial promise, Teten said the right business formula could lead to the next Google, Facebook or Twitter — all of which received angel funding. Diana Dowling, acting director of the HBS Alumni Angels of Greater New York and a Greenwich resident, said angel

investors fill a critical need for startups. “We will see companies often looking to raise money in the $100,000 to $1 million range,” said Dowling. “Angel groups are often non-institutional. We’re individuals who come together as a group to share our knowledge and share our business thoughts about how we want to fund startups, and we share all that knowledge and at the end of the day we invest as individuals.”

Peter Propp, vice president and director of marketing for the Stamford Innovation Center, said a strong set of angels “can be a huge advantage” for a startup. “The people who have the wherewithal to make those investments, the connections they have are often at a very senior level … it’s a great way for an investor to put money into an industry in which they have a lot of knowledge and

expertise,” Propp said. While there is not a high number of venture capital firms in the region, Propp said there are numerous individuals looking to invest in startups. “Because we know it takes quite a lot of effort to create a venture fund out by us, creating a vibrant venture community is … just a critical strategy for us,” he said.

Straight up the hill and firm, Z. Yep. Got it.

Team McGladrey Golfer Zach Johnson and his caddie, Damon Green.

Power comes from being understood.SM When you trust the advice you’re getting, you know your next move is the right move. That’s what you can expect from McGladrey. That’s the power of being understood. Experience the power. Go to zachisunderstood.com or contact Tony Ceci at 203.328.7101.

© 2013 McGladrey LLP. All Rights Reserved.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013

7


CASH MANAGEMENT solutions

Improve

YOUR CASH FLOW.

Helping you manage your cash flow more efficiently is what our online cash management solutions are all about. You can easily and securely deposit checks, manage your accounts, receive payments, and more. Plus, you’ll get all the help you need from local Webster bankers willing to go the extra mile. It’s all part of Personality. Webster’s Type Contact your Regional President, John Ciulla at 203.328.8134 for more information, or go to WebsterBank.com/cashmanagement.

WEBSTER

WEB - LINK® Manage your account information safely and securely.

Blumenthal promotes exporting opportunities BY JENNIFER BISSELL jbissell@westfairinc.com

W

ith the help of Sen. Richard Blumenthal, nine Connecticut manufacturers secured opportunities to bid on multimillion-dollar contracts with Airbus, a leading aircraft manufacturer based in France, and its top tier suppliers. Blumenthal accompanied the group on the trade mission to Toulouse, France, to help introduce company representatives with top Airbus and Goodrich Aerostructures officials and to discuss possible exporting opportunities. “We’re a state that has no coal mines or oil wells,” Blumenthal said. “We don’t have any natural resources but what we do have in great supply are talented, smart people with strong skills. And the more we can sell abroard, the more we will employ those people in manufacturing.” Together, the businesses employ nearly 6,000 people in Connecticut and are comprised of AdChem Manufacturing Technologies, AeroCision, Alpha Q Inc., Capewell Components, Jonal Laboratories, Microtech, Pegasus Manufacturing and SPX Precision.

The mission was Blumenthal’s first trip abroad as a senator but a continuation of his efforts to help increase exports from Connecticut businesses. Blumenthal said the trip was also meant as a show of support for President Barack Obama’s National Export Initiative, which seeks to double exports from 2010 to 2015. In the past, Connecticut firms have partnered with the state’s elected officials to promote business partnerships with foreign companies, including a September 2012 trip by Gov. Dannel P. Malloy to a meeting of the World Economic Forum in Tianjin, China. “Anytime you bring a senior government official with you on this kind of trade mission it elevates the companies’ stature,” said Ann Evans, district director of the U.S. Department of Commerce in Middletown. “It’s placing them in front of the right buyers, like bringing them through the VIP line.” In 2011, the most recent year for which data is available, Connecticut businesses exported $16.2 billion in goods and services, according to the Department of Commerce. “We’re trying to get them ahead of everyone else,” Evans added. “Not just Michigan, but Germany and Japan.”

NEWS IN BRIEF

WEBSTER

DEPOSIT- LINK®

KAYAK SHAREHOLDERS APPROVE MERGER

Deposit checks from your office. WEBSTER

PAYMENT- LINK® Allow customers to pay you online.

WebsterBank.com

Kayak Software Corp. shareholders voted overwhelmingly in favor of adopting the proposed merger agreement with priceline.com Inc. The merger agreement, first announced Nov. 8 by the Norwalk travel companies, was approved by about 96 percent of Kayak shareholders who voted at a March 4 meeting. Under the terms of the merger, priceline.com will acquire Kayak for about $1.8 billion. The closing of the merger will take place once the remaining conditions, including regulatory approvals, are secured. At that point, Kayak and priceline.com will set a deadline for Kayak stockholders to specify the type of consideration they wish to receive.

STARWOOD PREPS FOR EU EXPANSION

Webster Bank, N.A. Member FDIC

The Webster Symbol and Webster Bank are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Improve Cash Flow - Ciulla

02/07/2013

Size: 5” x 10.5”

Ad Code: WFC-CB-3266

FFC BJ

MM: Joanne Renna

WeekNumber: of March 11, 2013 •GD: FairField County 8 Studio 014512013 Jessie Color: 4CBusiness Journal

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide Inc. announced in Berlin that it plans to open 50 hotels across Europe over the

next five years. The expansion will begin with nine new hotels opening in 2013, including three in Turkey, one in Moscow, and one in Hungary. The plan will increase Starwood’s European hotel portfolio by 30 percent. “There is strong demand for all of our brands on the continent and, after years of tight supply, we are seeing great deal-signing momentum in Europe both in established and rapidly growing markets,” said Simon Turner, president of global development for the Stamfordbased company, in a prepared statement. Separately, Starwood announced that more than 200 executives and hotel general managers from the U.S., Europe, Asia and Latin America will be working from Dubai through April 5 in an effort to broaden the company’s foreign roots. — Jennifer Bissell and Patrick Gallagher


BY NORMAN G. GRILL JR.

I

Be ready for merger opportunities

f your company is struggling, the thought of expanding through a merger or acquisition may seem farfetched. But there could be a business that wants to add yours to its roster. Or perhaps you’re a market leader and acquiring a suitable company would further cement your dominance. Whatever the case, a basic understanding of mergers or acquisitions (M&As) can help prepare you to take advantage of opportunities that arise.

to make the tough call as to whether to retire early or risk losing your suitor. On the bright side, in many cases former owners can stay involved with the company as a consultant. Of course, even when an owner hasn’t been planning to sell the business anytime soon, an urgent need to sell can come up — especially these days. Shifting market conditions, obsolete product lines, outmoded technologies and lack of credit may be signals that it’s time to move on.

Beyond retirement Perhaps the first thing to cross any business owner’s mind when the prospect of an M&A deal comes up is: Should I do this now? Whether you’re a seller or a buyer, timing is critical. So, as a seller, when is the right time? Well, retirement is the most obvious example. If you plan to, at least in part, live off the proceeds of the sale of your business after you retire, you’ll need to start hunting for the right M&A deal well in advance of your bon voyage party. Yet don’t assume the perfect buyer will emerge right when you’re ready to hang it up. You may find the ideal candidate a few years before your planned retirement date. In that case, you’ll have

Opportunity + capital For buyers, timing is somewhat simpler. It’s generally a matter of opportunity plus capital. That is, you encounter a suitable target to merge with or acquire and you have the finances to get the deal done. But that doesn’t mean it will always or even usually be an easy decision. An M&A target must fit in with your strategic goals. You’ve got to ensure that the business you’re buying will make you more competitive and profitable, not just briefly put your name in the news. Due diligence is of paramount importance. That means not only fully grasping the target’s finances and any legal issues involved, but also looking closely at the target’s operations. Scrutinize its market-

ing and sales, production and administration departments carefully. These functions can often hold deal-breaking pitfalls. Taxes and sale structure As you might expect, Uncle Sam will want a piece of any M&A transaction. But not every business sale need be immediately taxable. Some arrangements may qualify for tax-deferred treatment. Examples include transactions in which the seller receives buyer stock or certain qualifying property in exchange for their stock or assets. Corporate or partnership/ limited liability company (L.L.C.) mergers may be eligible for tax deferrals as well. Understandably enough, many parties to M&A deals favor the idea of a taxdeferred sale. But there are situations in which paying taxes upfront is the better way to go. For example, despite immediate taxability, cash-only sales are simpler and often quicker to execute. Buyers typically favor a taxable sale to get a steppedup basis in the assets, which can reduce future taxes. If your company or one you’re thinking about buying is structured as a corporation, you’ll have to choose between a stock sale and an asset sale. Parties to

an M&A deal often end up at odds here: Sellers look to stock sales to get favorable capital gains treatment. Meanwhile, buyers prefer asset sales to maximize future depreciation write-offs and to limit legal liability. Buyers also tend to frown on stock sales because they’ll have to deal with the carryover basis in the assets, which may raise their future tax liability. Conversely, stock sales of C-corporations appeal greatly to sellers because the departing owner(s) may avoid double taxation when they sell the assets and then distribute cash to shareholders. Deal ready The uncertain economy has put a dent in the frequency of M&A deals. But plenty are still going down and much depends on the industry in question. Even if a business sale or purchase is the furthest thing from your mind at the moment, keeping your company in “deal ready” shape can strengthen your leverage should an intriguing opportunity arise. Norman Grill is managing partner of Grill & Partners L.L.C., with offices in Fairfield and Darien. He can be reached at N.Grill@GRILL1.com or 254-3880.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013

9


CEO EVOLUTION

BY MARK FAGAN With Patrick Gallagher

A

PRO

HOCKEY

For Sponsorship Opportunities Call: Jed Wilson

follow us

203-570-7952

10 Week of March 11, 2013 • FairField County Business Journal

Driving the point home

ny business, at its core, is a collection of people working to provide goods and services that meet clients’ demands while generating profitable returns. In order to realize and maximize those returns and internal efficiencies, CEOs and other top executives must be actively engaged in the strategic planning process. The previous installment of the CEO Evolution series discussed the need for those top executives to have less of a hand in day-to-day operations and a greater role in the development and implementation of strategies that can drive business growth. In other words, CEOs must start by managing through key business drivers. Key business drivers are indicators that each have a major impact on the performance of your business, something that is measureable and can be compared to a standard — such as a budget or last year’s figures or an industry average, and perhaps most important, something that can be acted upon. There are certain key business drivers that vary from industry to industry, but many apply across the board. They include: Revenues: It’s important to separate revenues by location, employee, and/or product, etc. That breakdown of revenues should then be analyzed on a monthly and annual basis, allowing management to see which part or parts of the business are growing, which are contracting, and why. Gross pro�it: Likewise, before you can maximize profits, you have to know where the problems and opportunities are. Being able to determine and report profit at the lowest level of activity for your company (by location, employee, product, customer, etc.) will give you that ability. If you can’t, you’re operating with a blindfold. Customer growth: The ability to attract new customers is the lifeblood of a business, and is where everything originates. So who is bringing in these new customers? What is your best product? Which location is consistently adding to the client base? Why do some people and products fail, while others succeed? The flip side is customer attrition. Customer loyalty is tested in tough economic times, but attracting new customers is more expensive and time consuming than holding onto existing clientele. Finding out why a repeat customer has chosen to take their business elsewhere is critical. Inventory turnover: If your business involves the sale of goods, you know inventory levels represent a double-edged

sword. Capital converted to inventory may give you something to sell, and purchasing or producing large lots may be more profitable. But, once that conversion is made, your product is at risk to lose value — not to mention the space and personnel required to store and manage inventory. You need to understand your inventory requirements, lead time and volume discounts on a product-by-product basis, and track them monthly. Accounts receivable turnover: Cash is king, and customers easily become conditioned. If you allow them to pay for products in 60, 90 or 120 days, that is exactly what they will do. They will use your company as a line of credit (interest free)! As you can see, it’s a common theme: Most business drivers need to be identified and reported at the lowest level of activity. Your company’s revenues could be growing rapidly, but if, upon closer inspection, that growth is the result of one or multiple salesmen giving the farm away, your gross profit could take a hit. Having the ability to get a clear determination of the performance of your employees will help you put the appropriate people into the appropriate positions, and will ultimately help motivate them to improve. Non-generic key business drivers vary by industry. For example, manufacturers must monitor production efficiency and machine downtime. Professional service organizations have the utilization of employees and overhead rates as key drivers. Other drivers can include price per pound, the turnaround time from a sale to shipment or the conversion of change orders. For the key business drivers that may differ from one industry segment to another, tracking your progress against industry-wide data is crucial. The caveat? The important word here is “key.” Realistically, management can’t track 15 to 20 key drivers on a weekly or monthly basis; something in the range of five to eight might be more achievable. As always, your success will depend on your ability to delegate to the management. If you have someone who heads up an office or division, that person should monitor the key indicators for her office and report back to you. Mark L. Fagan, CPA, is the managing partner of Citrin Cooperman’s Connecticut office. Citrin Cooperman is a full-service accounting and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, White Plains, New York City, Philadelphia and Livingston, N.J. Mark can be reached at mfagan@citrincooperman.com or (203) 847-4068.


Business Council Honors Area Companies for Creating Healthy Workplaces HOUSE MAJORITY LEADER BRENDAN SHARKEY

HOUSE MINORITY LEADER LARRY CAFERO

SENATE MINORITY LEADER PRO TEMPORE JOHN MCKINNEY

SENATE PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE DONALD WILLIAMS

Annual Connecticut Legislative Leadership Breakfast

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Registration: 7:45am Breakfast Program: 8:00 – 9:30am Cost: $40 members; $400 Member Table of 10;$50 non-members Stamford Plaza Hotel and Conference Center, 2701 Summer Street, Stamford, CT Promising a balanced budget, infrastructure investments and no new taxes, the Governor has just delivered a $44 billion two-year budget to the state’s legislature. The Governor has set Connecticut on an ambitious path, describing his priorities as managing Connecticut’s long-term fiscal obligations, offering a transparent budget, and committing significant resources to early childhood education, job growth, and energy. Yet, the continued recessionary drag

on the state’s revenues and escalating costs associated with Medicaid and state pensions place extraordinary pressures on its budget. On March 19th, find out how the state’s legislative leadership will tackle the Governor’s current budget. Will their priorities align with Governor Malloy’s? Join us to hear - and ask - how common ground can be found. The Business Council’s VP Public Policy Joe McGee will serve as moderator. As always at this annual event, there will be no speeches and plenty of time for Q & A. Part of the The Business Council’s Democracy Works! program, this event seeks to increase public awareness of the most important issues facing the state. We are delighted to thank Purdue Pharma L.P. for its generous support for this initiative.

The 2013 Healthy Workplace Employer Recognition Program honored the efforts of 25 area employers who understand the competitive advantage of a healthy workforce and have implemented cutting edge programs to promote a healthy workplace and assist their employees to live healthier lives. This year’s recognition program was presented by The Business Council’s Wellness Roundtable. The recognition ceremony was fol-

lowed by a moderated discussion on best practices with honorees from The Ashforth Company, Really Good Stuff and Daymon Worldwide, Inc. A common theme among the recognized employers’ programs was the need to creatively gain the attention and participation of their employees through strategic communications. For more information on our Healthy Workplace initiative or to read the winning submissions, please go to www.businessfairfield.com.

Healthy Workplaces Honored

There were three categories of distinction, Platinum, Gold and Silver, awarded on the basis of program components and outcomes. Platinum Honorees R.C. Bigelow Daymon Worldwide, Inc. Town of Mansfield CT People’s United Bank Pitney Bowes Inc. Purdue Pharma L.P. PwC LLP St. Vincent’s Medical Center Sikorsky, A United Technologies Company

Stew Leonard’s Tauck Inc. Terex University of Hartford Gold Honorees Ability Beyond Disability Contractors Register Deloitte Neopost USA Quinnipiac University

Really Good Stuff Sacred Heart University Stepping Stones Museum for Children Silver Honorees The Ashforth Company Genpact LAZ Parking Sectra, N.A.

Learn how to pitch a VC from one of the best. . .

An Inc 500 CEO, serial entrepreneur and active angel investor who has founded or funded over 80 companies, David has been described as “New York’s Archangel” by Forbes and a “world conquering entrepreneur” by BusinessWeek.

Follow us! facebook.com/ BusinessFairfield

#BCFairfieldCo

He founded and is CEO of Gust, which operates the global collaboration platform for over 160,000 startups in 195 countries, 40,000 early-stage investors and 1,000 venture funds and angel groups. He is the Founder of New York Angels and the Founding Chair of Entrepreneurship at Singularity University. Dubbed “The Pitch Coach” by BusinessWeek, David’s TEDtalk on “How to Pitch a VC” has been viewed over 700,000 times. This is a rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s greatest pitch coaches... For FREE

March 27, 2013

David will share his 1.5 hr Master Pitch Class with members of the Innovation Ecosystem/CTNEXT.com. Please note: You must be registered with CTNEXT.com as an entrepreneur, mentor or service provider to attend this event.

The Grove 71 Orange St., New Haven, CT 06510 March 27, 2013 4:30 - 7pm 4:30 PM Registration & Networking 5:00 PM Pitch Class

For more information on ‘Launching with the Stars’ and to sign-up with the Innovation Ecosystem, go to www. ctnext.com/launching-with-the-stars or contact Patty Meagher, MD Growth Resources & Advisory, CTNEXT, Connecticut’s Innovation Ecosystem, Patty@ctnext.com. Brought to you by

Register now at CTNEXT.com

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 11


B

2

BOB + BILL Just like the great acts of years past like Martin and Lewis – there’s now Scinto and RaveiS. to their friends, they’re just Bob and Bill – two longtime pals who reached the pinnacle in commercial and residential real estate in Fairfield county. on april 9, come hear them as they take to the stage without a script and recount their early days – days filled with trial and error, as well as some hilarious moments. they will leave you laughing … and you might even learn some of the secrets to their respective successes. You won’t want to miss this opportunity to find out what makes the Scinto and Raveis empires tick. the auditoRiuM enterprise corporate towers 3 corporate drive | First Floor Shelton 11:30 a.m. – Meet, greet, lunch | Noon – Program

Presented by

FairField County Business Journal and Wag Magazine

Register now. Space is limited. Email Alissa Frey at afrey@westfairinc.com or go to westfaironline.com

12 Week of March 11, 2013 • Fairfield County Business Journal


Q&A: Exporting to China to enforce your rights and can risk your entire investment.”

BY JENNIFER BISSELL jbissell@westfairinc.com

T

he export market in China has rapidly expanded over the last decade. During the last two years Connecticut has exported nearly $2 billion in services and goods to China, making it the state’s fifth largest export market. In light of the increasing role China is playing in Connecticut’s economy, the Business Journal spoke with Paul Edelberg, a partner at Fox Rothschild L.L.P., based in Stamford. Edelberg is president of the Connecticut China Council and co-editor of the China Law Reporter for the American Bar Association. Why is China a good place to be exporting to right now? “First, Chinese companies have become larger, global and more sophisticated and are seeking more advanced products and technology internationally. Second, the standard of living and the corporate and personal wealth of a significant segment of Chinese society has increased tremendously. ... Third, the Chinese central government would like to become less dependent on exports and has established the objective of increasing consumer demand within China to create a more self-sufficient domestic economy.” Are there concerns a company should consider when deciding to export to China? “It is helpful to have exporting experience before exporting to a complex and culturally different market like China. China is culturally different and you must learn how to sell into the Chinese culture. Also, business and legal practices differ from ours. Moreover, you should be aware of a certain level of protectionism by the Chinese government, particularly for the service industry and for government procurement. “Finally, you must comply with U.S. export control laws, which might prohibit or restrict sales of your product to China or may require that you first obtain a license from the U.S. Department of Commerce or the U.S. Department of Defense.” What are some of the primary risks to be aware of? “Four risks readily come to mind. You need to protect your intellectual property, both legally and practically.

Paul Edelberg

Also, U.S. companies must comply with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, which prohibits bribing foreign government officials. Not only does China have its fare share of corruption, many of its companies are state-owned enterprises, meaning that their officers are government officials. “The FCPA also has record-keeping requirements for public companies, although we recommend that all companies implement record-keeping systems and a robust compliance process, including a compliance manual and a designated compliance team. “Another risk is payment and currency risk. If you are selling directly or through distributors and sales agents, you must have a solid sales contract, through which you can minimize these risks, define shipment terms and allocate other risks. You also need to be aware that the Chinese currency, the renminbi, is not freely convertible. This is a less of a problem for transmittal of sales payments, but is more of an issue for foreign companies setting up operations in China. “Finally, and extremely important, in all of your contracts and dealings, you must address governing law and dispute resolution provisions. You need to specify what law will govern, the forum in which your dispute will be resolved, the process and whether arbitration will be mandated, rather than litigation. If you haven’t addressed these contractual terms, you will not have the tools

What level of government regulation should a U.S. company anticipate? “This is one of the major differences from the U.S. system. In China, forming and conducting business is heavily regulated. A foreign company needs approval from one branch of government to form an entity. The approval will specify the entity’s capital requirement, which must be infused within a specified period. “To infuse additional capital requires an entirely new application that can take months. Capital cannot be easily repatriated. You also are required to obtain a business license from another branch of government and cannot engage in business activities beyond those specified in the license. “The government is more involved in employment matters than in the U.S., with requirements for registration of workers. There are union requirements. The list of government oversight functions is extensive. Foreign companies

must adjust to the level of government involvement and the delays the processes cause.” What else should businesses know about exporting to China? “U.S. businesses should be aware of the value-added tax (VAT) in China. This is the largest source of revenue for the Chinese government. For most products, it is a 17 percent tax. Not only should companies be aware of this cost in their pricing, it can be a cash-flow issue. If a U.S. company needs to warehouse product in China for significant periods of time, it may be stuck with paying customs duties and VAT upfront prior to product leaving the dock. “One solution that can work for some companies is to use a warehouse in a free trade zone. While more expensive than a normal warehouse, the customs duty and VAT are paid only at the time specific product is shipped from the warehouse. By then you have received a down payment on the purchase price of the sold goods, which should cover most or all of these costs.”

We’ve Been Helping Businesses Grow for Over 75 Years Offering our clients a wide variety of service in: Public and Municipal Law • Corporate/Business Law • Commercial Real Estate Land Use • Education • Estate Planning/Probate • Labor and Employment Litigation • Affordable Housing • Urban and Economic Development

75 Broad Street Milford, CT 06460 (203) 783-1200

27 Imperial Avenue Westport, CT 06880 (203) 227-9545

For more information visit www.bmdlaw.com

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 13


RANKED BY NUMBER OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY ATTORNEYS IN FIRM. LISTED ALPHABETICALLY IN THE EVENT OF A TIE.

THE LIST

REGIONAL NEXT LIST: MARCH 18 OFFICE BUILDINGS

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Intellectual Property Attorneys

Ranked by number of intellectual property attorneys in firm. Listed alphabetically in event of tie. Managing partners or officers Email address Year firm established

Rank

Name, address, telephone number Website

1

Edwards Wildman Palmer L.L.C.

2

McCarter & English L.L.P.

Basam E. Nabulsi

1 Canterbury Green, 201 Broad St., Stamford, CT 06901 (203) 399-5900 • mccarter.com

info@mccarter.com

1 Canterbury Green, 201 Broad St., Stamford, CT 06901 (203) 975-7505 • wilsonelser.com

Wilson Elser

Vincent Kiernan contactus@edwardswildman.com 1888

105

35

27

13

30

a

a

6

0

92

62

23

54

38

a

a

John Flannery (White Plains) Brian Del Gatto (Stamford) 1978

17

145

40

5

8

0

40

a

a

Stanley A. Twardy Jr. 2007

43

0

22

7

8

6

16

a

a

19

0

19

14

5

9

10

a

a

28

2

15

0

3

6

9

a

a

3

1

4

4

2

0

2

a

a

20

3**

3

0

2

0

3

a

a

Michael D. Downs Carson C.K. Fincham Magdalena M. Fincham 2009

3

0

3

3

3

WND

WND

a

a

Richard N. Freeth 2010

2

0

2

0

2

0

2

a

Kathryn E. Diehm info@ruccilawgroup.com 2011

7

0

2

0

2

2

0

a

Thomas Smith dmenken@sbjlaw.com 1991

3

15

1

0

1

0

1

a

1884

4

Day Pitney L.L.P.

5

Ohlandt, Greeley, Ruggerio & Perle L.L.P.

Paul D. Greeley

1 Landmark Square, 10th floor, Stamford, CT 06901 (203) 327-4500 • ogrp.com

info@ogrp.com

6

Robinson & Cole L.L.P.^

7

Coleman Sudol Sapone P.C.

8

Diserio Martin O'Connor & Castiglioni L.L.P.^

William A. Durkin III

1 Atlantic St., Eighth floor, Stamford, CT 06890 (203) 358-0800 • dmoc.com

mwagner@dmoc.com

714 Colorado Ave., Bridgeport, CT 06605 (203) 366-3560 • cssiplaw.com

Fincham Downs L.L.C. 470 Main St., Ridgefield, CT 06877 (203) 438-6991 • finchamdowns.com

9

Freeth & Associates 500 Summer St., Suite 203, Stamford, CT 06901 (203) 674-8500 • freethfirm.com

Rucci Law Group L.L.C. 19 Old Kings Highway South, Darien, CT 06820 (203) 202-9686 • ruccilawgroup.com

10

Smith Buss & Jacobs L.L.P. 733 Yonkers Ave., Yonkers, NY 10704 (914) 476-0600 • sbjlaw.com

Abroad

0

3

1055 Washington Blvd., Stamford, CT 06901 (203) 462-7500 • rc.com

U.S.

13

3 Gannett Drive, White Plains, NY 10604 1010 Washington Blvd., Stamford, CT 06901 (914) 323-7000 • (203) 388-9100 wilsonelser.com

1 Canterbury Green, 201 Broad St., Stamford, CT 06901 (203) 977-7300 • daypitney.com

Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Number of Attorneys in attorneys in attorneys in attorneys in attorneys in attorneys in intellectual attorneys attorneys in in firm who intellectual intellectual intellectual intellectual property group file Fairfield Westchester specialize in property property property property for and defend County, County intellectual group who file group who group who are group who are trademarks involved in Conn. property for and file for and exclusively and/or patents defend defend transactional litigation patents trademarks/c attorneys opyright

1987

John B. Lynch Jr. jscheib@rc.com

1865

William J. Sapone wsapone@cssiplaw.com 2000

1983

Note: This list features companies that responded to questionnaire. ^ Information obtained from 2012 list.

14 Week of March 11, 2013 • Fairfield County Business Journal


SPECIAL REPORT Business Law

Union, nursing homes face off over benefits

Long Ridge of Stamford is one of five Connecticut nursing homes that have filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as a result of rising labor costs.

BY PATRICK GALLAGHER pgallagher@westfairinc.com

T

he union representing 600-plus Connecticut nursing home employees whose jobs were reinstated last week after an eight-month strike denounced a recent bankruptcy court ruling that allows those workers’ benefits to be temporarily reduced. The March 4 ruling came a week after the five affected nursing homes, which are in Danbury, Milford, Newington, Stamford and Westport, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and will allow the homes to temporarily institute the contract terms that led the union employees to walk off the job last July.

In his decision, Judge Donald H. Steckroth of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for New Jersey gave the five nursing homes — which are all managed by HealthBridge Management L.L.C. of Parsippany, N.J. — six weeks to line up financing that would allow them to remain open. However, the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) District 1199, which represents the workers, contends Steckroth’s ruling contradicts a Dec. 11 decision by Judge Robert N. Chatigny of the U.S. District Court for Connecticut, which required the five nursing homes to reinstate all of the striking employees at their previous wages and benefits. Chatigny’s decision, which was prompted by a complaint from the

National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on behalf of the workers, was upheld in February when the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear a petition by HealthBridge and the five nursing homes for the reinstatement order to be overturned. “It is clear to us that the bankruptcy judge does not have jurisdiction here to effectively negate any of the directives of Judge Chatigny’s injunction,” said David Pickus, president of SEIU District 1199. Pickus said the NLRB has informed the union that it intends to seek enforcement of Chatigny’s decision, which called on HealthBridge and the five nursing homes to “reinstate the previous wages, benefits and other terms and conditions of employment for the employees that were in place on June 16, 2012, and rescind any or all of the unilateral changes implemented by” HealthBridge and the homes. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit said it would hear arguments later this spring for the appeal of Chatigny’s ruling. The five nursing homes include Long Ridge of Stamford, Newington Health Care Center, Westport Health Care Center, West River Health Care Center and Danbury Health Care Center. The labor dispute traces its roots to June 2012, when HealthBridge and the five nursing homes it manages instituted their “last, best and final” contract offer following 18 months of negotiations with

the SEIU District 1199 that failed to yield a new collective bargaining agreement. At the time, HealthBridge said the move — which prompted more than 600 employees to go on strike July 3 — was the result of unsustainable pension and medical benefits costs under the previous contract with its SEIU employees. If not for the bankruptcy court’s March 4 decision, which allows HealthBridge to institute the benefit cuts it had sought last summer, the five nursing homes “would have suffered substantial monthly losses as a result of the onerous terms of the union labor agreements,” according to HealthBridge. “(The) decision gives the centers the time to resume negotiations with the union so that they can reach new agreements that balance the needs of the centers and their union-represented employees,” said Lisa Crutchfield, senior vice president of labor relations for HealthBridge. HealthBridge said the nursing homes have complied with Chatigny’s Dec. 11 reinstatement order. Pickus, however, accused the homes of “attempting to subvert the course of justice and set themselves beyond the law.” “Throughout the appeals process, HealthBridge had every opportunity to provide the financial and other information that would support their spurious claims of the financial harm that would result from compliance with the injunction,” Pickus said. But, he said, they “did not do so.”

Prosecutors charge hedge fund execs in alleged scheme BY PATRICK GALLAGHER pgallagher@westfairinc.com

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has accused the coowners of a now-defunct Ridgefield hedge fund with lying to investors as the fund was struggling to stay afloat during the financial crisis. New Stream Capital L.L.C. fund managers David Bryson and Bart Gutekunst, former CFO Richard Pereira and former head of investor relations Tara Bryson were charged by the SEC with fraud for allegedly misleading investors about the

firm’s fiscal condition and secretly revising the fund’s capital structure just prior to its collapse. According to the SEC complaint, David Bryson and Gutekunst revised the fund’s capital structure in March 2008 to placate Gottex Fund Management — New Stream’s largest client at the time with nearly $300 million invested — which had threatened to withdraw its funds. “As alleged, fearing the loss of their fund’s largest investor, these defendants orchestrated a scheme to deceive investors in order to obtain and maintain

investments,” said David B. Fein, U.S. attorney for the District of Connecticut, in a prepared statement. Prosecutors and the SEC allege that New Stream would have struggled to attract and retain investors had the firm revealed that it restructured its fund structure to favor Gottex. The SEC complaint states that as of September 2008, the fund, which managed $750 million in primarily illiquid investments, was facing $545 million in redemption requests from clients. New Stream ultimately filed for bankruptcy in March 2011 after several

failed attempts at restructuring, according to the SEC. The alleged scheme is said to have allowed David Bryson and Gutekunst to raise nearly $50 million in addition to “lucrative fees,” according to the SEC complaint. Tara Bryson has agreed to settle the SEC charges. Fein announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven delivered a 19-count indictment charging David Bryson, Gutekunst and Pereira with conspiracy, securities fraud and wire fraud offenses.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 15


FAIRFIELD COUNTY

Partners PARTNERS

40UNDER40

2013 2012 FAIRFIELD COUNTY FAIRFIELD COUNTY

40UNDER40 40UNDER40 It’s the premIer BUSINESS-AWARD

eVeNt OF the YeAr

Be part of Fairfield County business history. Nominate a candidate (perhaps yourself) who fits the

Nominate a candidate who dynamic fits the description of young (perhaps (under theyourself) age of 40), description of young (under the age of 40), dynamic industry industry leader who is part of the county’s business growth. leader who is part of the county’s business growth.

NomiNatioN forms are available oN wEsTFAIRONLINE.COm.

Nomination forms are available on westfaironline.com.

Nomination deadline is April 19. Please act quickly.

for more iNformatioN, Holly19. DeBartolo (914)quickly. 694-3600, ext. 3006 Nomination deadline call is April Pleaseatact For more information, call (914) 694-3600, ext. 3031.

eveNt: June 20

16 Week of March 11, 2013 • Fairfield County Business Journal


FACES

STANDING OUT IN A CROWD

Advertising and marketing gurus Ari Halper and Sabrina Horn headlined a Feb. 28 event at the Bruce Museum in Greenwich, where they examined the elements of successful public relations and marketing campaigns. The event, which was sponsored by the Business Journals and Wag magazine, drew more than 120 people and featured a discussion of which tactics work and what fails to measure up in advertising and marketing.

1

2

4

5

3

Photos by Patrick Gallagher. 13. Ari Halper 14. Sabrina Horn 3. Jeff Stern and Kevin Brown 4. Fern Pessin and Richard Ferrante

6

5. Bruce Newman and Dennis Gaylin 6. James Wisecup and Edwin Cobb 7. Bob La Blanca and Doug Campbell 8. Denise Frank and Stephanie Weiss 9. A.J. Montalto and Cynthia Graton 10. Barbara Wollenberg, Linda Heavey, Nicole Grosjean, Mindy Gibson, Kim Sawiki and Brittany Hohl

8

7

9

11. Elizabeth P. Ball and Kelly Parkhurst 12. Helena Marescot and Cathy Chiappa 13. Becky Conelias and Michelle Spinea 14. Troy Ellen Dixon All photograph identifications are from left unless noted otherwise.

10

12

11

13

14

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 17


A necessary resource – Stepping Stones Museum for Children By 2010, Stepping Stones Museum for Children in Norwalk had already doubled its building size and welcomed its 2 millionth visitor — and the museum was just 10 years young. From day one, our driving purpose has been to inspire lifelong learning and support parents, caregivers and educators in facilitating children’s explorations through play. We have developed award-winning exhibits and one-of-a-kind educational programs, classes and events. We engage teenagers through a volunteer leadership program, conduct Parent Zone workshops for adults and have a strong grandparent membership base. We serve as a professional development resource for local teachers. Schools throughout the state and beyond visit our exhibits and we visit their classrooms with traveling exhibits and workshops. Our multigenerational learning approach is in full action. Fundamental to the museum from its opening day has been the “Open Arms” accessibility initiative. “Open Arms” provides unique opportunities for community members to enjoy museum exhibits, educational programs and special events and services regardless of financial, language or special-needs barriers. Educational resources must be accessible to everyone and Stepping Stones serves as a statewide resource that can help close Connecticut’s largestin-the-nation achievement gap. Stepping Stones prides itself on listening to its community and responding to its needs and interests. According to the state Department of Education, nearly 61 percent of Connecticut’s children are not prepared to enter kindergarten. Addressing a critical need for more high-quality, early-childhood educational experiences, the museum and its community partners opened the Early Language and Literacy (ELLI) Lab School in 2012. Featuring half- and full-day early language and literacy programs for preschoolers, the ELLI goal is to lay the crucial foundation for reading readiness that is an essential driver of success for children in school and in life. True to the museum’s “Open Arms” commitment, full scholarships are available. Moving forward, Stepping Stones will continue to find new ways to strengthen its role as a necessary community resource.

FCBUZZ ART/PLACE EXPLORES ‘THE SPACE BETWEEN’ IN NEW EXHIBIT

Toby Michaels

Art/Place in Fairfield is presenting a new exhibit that plunges into the space between sea and sky, featuring works by Westportbased artists Toby Michaels and Mary Elizabeth Peterson. It’s called, appropriately enough, “The Space Between.” “The show is about what is unseen in the universe,” says Michaels, who focuses on cosmic space in her “Black Paper” series. “At first glimpse you may see only darkness and stars, but there is really an abundance of phenomena in the void.” These abstract paintings become spiritual and metaphysical adventures, inspiring her to “inquire into the unseen, endless cosmic and universal possibilities.” Peterson has always been fascinated by the sea. “I’m taken

‘THE 39 STEPS’ TO COMIC THRILLS AT THE DARIEN ARTS CENTER

Rhonda Kiest Executive director Stepping Stones Museum for Children Member, Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County The mission of the Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County is to support cultural organizations, artists and creative businesses by providing promotion, services and advocacy. For more information, visit CulturalAllianceFC.org or email infoCulturalAllianceFC.org or call 256-2329. For events lists, visit FCBuzz.org.

in not only by the colors, taste and patterns, but by fish, plants and seabirds as well.” She is concerned with “how we are damaging the oceans and destroying an entire species,” referring to whales, a favorite subject in her paintings. She also uses collage techniques to trace changes in Connecticut coastal water marches and landscapes over time. Both artists have been inspired by poetry. Michaels draws from the Indian poet Rumi, who said, “We are the night ocean, filled with glints of light. We are the space between the fish and the moon.” Peterson recently reread Herman Melville’s “Moby Dick” and quotes Jean Dorst from “Water” (1990): “Life bears the memory of its aquatic origins. Every living creature, animal or plant…even man…is above all a form of water.” Michaels has taught art in Westport, Weston and Darien elementary schools. She has a master’s degree in art therapy and initiated an art therapy program for Norwalk Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry, led art therapy groups at Silver Hill Hospital and was an adjunct professor of art therapy at Quinnipiac College. She is now a full-time artist. Peterson’s underwater scenes blend traditions of scientific record-making with personal reflections on the natural world. Her sources include her photographic and sculptural collection of found art from waterways around New England. She studied at the Corcoran College of Art + Design in Washington D.C. and pursued journalism and art history at the University of Connecticut. She is a full-time artist and a volunteer art teacher in the Westport public schools’ ArtSmart program. “The Space Between” is at Art/Place, 70 Sanford St., through March 30. Hours are noon-4 p.m. ThursdaysSaturdays. For more, visit artplace.org.

Melissa Schleier as Annabela Schmidt and David Victor as Richard Hannay in “The 39 Steps.”

A bored bachelor decides to go to the theater on a Friday night and gets far more than a show. A sultry woman sits next to him and the adventures and misadventures begin as our hero Richard Hannay finds himself embroiled in an international plot involving murder, spies, dames, villains, war, trains, crashing planes, Scotland Yard, deception and, perhaps, love. Fast-paced and funny, “The 39 Steps” at the Darien Arts Center through March 23, pays homage to the great Alfred Hitchcock in subtle

and not-so-subtle ways. The original melodrama — written in 1915 by John Buchan and immortalized by Hitch in his 1935 film — was reworked into a farce by Patrick Barlow. You’ll find affectionate references to Hitchcock’s works interspersed throughout the play, but you do not need to be an expert on the master of suspense to enjoy the show. Originally written for a cast of four actors playing 140-plus roles, the Darien center’s performances showcase the talents of six actors — Geoffrey Gilbert, Linda Gilmore, P.J. Morello, Melissa Schleier, Vic Terenzio and David Victor. Lightning-fast character changes, some in front of the audience, makes for an entertaining evening for those 9 to 90. Tickets may be purchased by calling the box office at 6555414 or visiting arts.darien.org.

Visit FCBuzz.org for more information on events and how to get listed. 18 Week of March 11, 2013 • FairField County Business Journal

Presented by: Cultural Alliance of Fairfield County


FAIRFIELD COUNTY

BUSINESS JOURNAL ATTACHMENTS -FILED Rays Lawn Service L.L.C. and Raymond P. Barnes, Greenwich. $10,000, in favor of Gault Inc., Westport. Property: 35 Shady Lane, Greenwich. Filed Feb. 19. Stone Ridge at Fairfield L.L.C., Fairfield. $700,000, in favor of Stone Ridge at Fairfield Condominium Association Inc., Fairfield. Property: 50 Stone Ridge Way, Unit 2F, Fairfield. Filed Feb. 19.

ATTACHMENTSRELEASED Dragone, Tina, Emanuel, George and Thomas, Stratford. $405,419.74, in favor of Ridgefield Bank Mortgage, Ridgefield. Property: 24000 Barnum Ave., Stratford. Filed Feb. 25.

BUILDING PERMITS

commerciaL 290 Connecticut Avenue Associates L.L.C. New tenant Brennan’s Bar, 280 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 28. 314 Westport Avenue L.L.C. Fit-out an existing commercial building for Hat City Pawn, 314 Westport Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 20. 590 Danbury Road L.L.C. Perform alterations to an existing commercial building, 590 Danbury Road, Ridgefield. Estimated cost: $30,000. Filed Feb. 26. Items appearing in the Fairfield County Business Journal’s On The Record section are compiled from various sources, including public records made available to the media by federal, state and municipal agencies and the court system. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this information, no liability is assumed for errors or omissions. In the case of legal action, the records cited are open to public scrutiny and should be inspected before any action is taken. Questions and comments regarding this section should be directed to: Bob Rozycki c/o Westfair Communications Inc. 3 Gannett Drive, Suite G7 White Plains, N.Y. 10604-3407 Phone: (914)694-3600 Fax: (914)694-3680

682 Commercial Drive Associates L.P. Erecting shell and foundation for a new commercial building, 682 Commerce Drive, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $400. Filed Feb. 27.

Malkin Construction, Stamford, contractor for Fairfield Merrittview L.P. New tenant Pre Build, 383 Main Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $110,000. Filed Feb. 22.

A. Pappajohn Co., Norwalk, contractor for Trinity Episcopal Church. Repair storm damage at an existing commercial building, 651 Pequot Ave., Fairfield. Estimated cost: $15,300. Filed Feb. 27.

Merrit 7 Ventures L.L.C. Perform interior alterations at an existing commercial building for Antinozzi Associates, 301 Merrit 7, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $26,000. Filed Feb. 19.

Alix Field L.P. Perform interior alterations at an existing commercial building, 205 Main Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $5,000. Filed Feb. 27.

Merrit 7 Ventures L.L.C. New tenant Ipsos, 301 Merrit 7, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $700,000. Filed Feb. 19.

CES L.L.C. Renzulli Associates Shopping Center. Perform interior renovations at an existing commercial building, 399 Post Road West, Westport. Estimated cost: $30,000. Filed Feb. 27.

Metropolitan Life Insurance Co., Morristown, N.J. Fit-out an existing commercial building for Progressive Insurance, 800 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $200,000. Filed Feb. 19.

City of Norwalk. New tenant, Oak Hills Restaurant, 165 Fillow St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $1,000. Filed Feb. 27. Desco Professional Builders Inc., Ellington, contractor for HD Main Ave. L.P. Perform interior alterations at an existing commercial building for tenant, Total Wine Spirit Beer & More, 380 Main Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $40,650. Filed Feb. 22.

Mid Fairfield Child Guidance. Perform external renovations and alterations at a commercial building, 100A East Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed Feb. 28. Norwalk Congregate Home. Perform roof maintenance to an existing commercial building, 108 New Canaan Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $6,500. Filed Feb. 28.

Earth Wind & Solar L.L.C., contractor for 170 Post Road West Corp. Fit-out an existing commercial building for Peachwave, 170 Post Road West, Westport. Estimated cost: $110,000. Filed Feb. 21.

St. George’s Church. Fit-out an existing commercial building for 238 W. Rocks Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $225,000. Filed Feb. 25.

ECP Main Avenue L.L.C. Perform interior renovations at an existing commercial building, 488 Main Ave, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $150,000. Filed Feb. 21.

Turner Construction Co., contractor for Young Men’s Christian Association. Construct a new commercial building, YMCA, 14 Sunny Lane, Westport. Estimated cost: $13.9 million. Filed Feb. 25.

Gavrielidis, Chris. Repair storm damage at an existing commercial building, 80 Seaview Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $31,000. Filed Feb. 28. J. Iapaluccio Inc., contractor for the town of Bethel. Perform additions at a commercial building, 49 and 53 Plumtrees Road, Bethel. Estimated cost: $8,000. Filed Feb. 20. JC Properties, Trumbull. New tenant Ingrid’s Hair Salon, 8 Monroe St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $1,000. Filed Feb. 20. M.G. St. David L.L.C. and M.G. Huntington L.L.C. New tenant Qdoba Mexican Grill, 650 Main Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $204,000. Filed Feb. 27.

residentiaL

Allwood Construction L.L.C., contractor for Therese and Adrian Little. Perform interior and exterior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 153R Compo Road South, Westport. Estimated cost: $30,000. Filed Feb. 27. Alteris Renewables Inc., Louisville, Colo., contractor for Christina Fleishmann. Install solar panels at an existing single-family residence, 155 Scribner Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $5,000. Filed Feb. 21. Astrum Solar Inc., Annapolis Junction, Md., contractor for Margaret Murray. Install solar panels at an existing singlefamily residence, 152 Southwood Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $14,600. Filed Feb. 19. Astrum Solar Inc., Annapolis Junction, Md., contractor for Jo and Matthew Senecal. Install solar panels at an existing single-family residence, 233 High Meadow Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $14,612. Filed Feb. 19. Astrum Solar Inc., Annapolis Junction, Md., contractor for Deborah and Stephen Lobdell. Install solar panels at an existing single-family residence, 69 Beverly Lane, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $16,055. Filed Feb. 22. Astrum Solar Inc., Annapolis Junction, Md., contractor for Megin and Jeffrey Cramer. Install solar panels at an existing single-family residence, 69 Round Hill Drive, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $52,500. Filed Feb. 26. Breza Builders L.L.C., contractor for Caitlin and Joshua Olsen. Perform interior renovations and alterations at an existing single-family residence, 275 Lakeside Drive, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $4,000. Filed Feb. 20.

3 Valley Heights L.L.C., contractor for Gault Park L.L.C. Construct a new single-family residence, 28 Gault Park Drive, Westport. Estimated cost: $600,000. Filed Feb. 19.

Bueti, Seri, Stamford, contractor for John McAvity. Repair storm damage to a single-family residence, 7 Little Brook Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $55,150. Filed Feb. 28.

A Pro Builders Inc., contractor for Jose Andrade. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 155 Riverside Ave., Westport. Estimated cost: $30,000. Filed Feb. 20.

Bugaj Contractor Co. L.L.C., contractor for Acorn Development L.L.C. Lay a foundation for a new single-family residence, 999 Merwins Lane, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $450,000. Filed Feb. 26.

Able Construction, contractor for CCO IV Sterling L.L.C. Construct a new single-family residence, 24 Sterling Drive, Westport. Estimated cost: $650,000. Filed Feb. 27.

Burden, Robert, Norwalk, contractor for Joycia and Leslie Shular. Perform roof maintenance to an existing singlefamily residence, 21 Adamson Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $5,600. Filed Feb. 21.

Cahill, Noel, contractor for Gracy and Kenneth Haener. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 15 Olivia Place, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $16,000. Filed Feb. 25.

DM Brown Builders L.L.C., Norwalk, contractor for Silvermine Homes L.L.C. Construct a new single-family residence, 5 Old Mill Court, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 20.

Coastal Construction, contractor for Coastal 15 Edgewater L.L.C. Construct a new single-family residence, 15 Edgewater Hillside, Westport. Estimated cost: $650,000. Filed Feb. 27.

Donahue, Margaret and Stephen. Add a second-story addition to an existing structure, 10 Roosevelt St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $10,000. Filed Feb. 21.

Contractor Services Fairfield L.L.C., Newtown, contractor for Flora Kueppers. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 39 Kellogg St., Ridgefield. Estimated cost: $8,000. Filed Feb. 26. CT Basement Systems Inc., contractor for Kelli and Jason Feinstein. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 9 Sandhopper Trail, Westport. Estimated cost: $50,000. Filed Feb. 19. DBI Development, Norwalk, contractor for Janani George. Construct an accessory building at a single-family residence, 36 Benedict St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 28. Delafield Island L.L.C. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 296 Main Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $5,000. Filed Feb. 21. Demarco Holdings L.L.C. Construct a new single-family residence, 249 Greenwood Ave., Bethel. Estimated cost: $50,000. Filed Feb. 21. Diagne, Alie and Donis Altman. Perform external renovations at an existing single-family residence, 215 Wilton Road, Westport. Estimated cost: $17,000. Filed Feb. 21. Diaz, Brian, contractor for Patricia and Philip King. Construct an accessory building at a single-family residence, 211 Harbor Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $125,000. Filed Feb. 27. DiGiorgi Roofing and Siding, Beacon Falls, contractor for Lois Brooks. Reroof an existing single-family residence, 24 Appletree Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,184. Filed Feb. 27. DiGiorgi Roofing and Siding, Beacon Falls, contractor for Helene Tomich. Reroof an existing single-family residence, 16 Hillandale Manor, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $2,500. Filed Feb. 27. Dinkel, Jeffrey. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 40 Still Road, Ridgefield. Estimated cost: $61,190. Filed Feb. 22.

Dreher, Alan, contractor for Deby Anderson. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 133 Arbor Drive, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $45,000. Filed Feb. 26. ERI Building & Design L.L.C., Darien, contractor for Laura and Thomas Keller. Perform roof maintenance to an existing single-family residence, 43 Rowayton Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $5,500. Filed Feb. 28. F&G Construction, Norwalk, contractor for Westnor L.L.C. Construct a new single-family residence, 181 ½ W. Norwalk Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 27. Feldman, Marcelle and Henry. Re-roof an existing single-family residence, 24 Maple Avenue North, Westport. Estimated cost: $7,000. Filed Feb. 27. Finkelstein, Samantha Packer. Install Solar Panels at an existing single-family residence, 10 Ferry Lane East, Westport. Estimated cost: $14,000. Filed Feb. 19. Fortuna, Robert and James. Lay a foundation for a new single-family residence, 75 Forest Ave., Fairfield. Estimated cost: $175,000. Filed Feb. 21. Fortuna, Robert and James. Lay a foundation for a new single-family residence, 77 Forest Ave., Fairfield. Estimated cost: $175,000. Filed Feb. 21. Ganga, Doris. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 12 Hamilton Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 26. Garrett Wilson Builders L.L.C., contractor for Stephanie and Keith Rhodes. Elevate a single-family residence, 302 Birch Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $165,000. Filed Feb. 19. Ghio, Mary and David. Convert a nonhabitable space into a habitable space at a single-family residence, 15 Aunt Patty’s Lane East, Bethel. Estimated cost: $16,780. Filed Feb. 22.

THE RECORDS SECTION IS NOW AVAILABLE BY DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTION. Go to westfaironline.com/buy/records-section/ for more information and to view a sample.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 19


on the record Hallas Associates L.L.C., Norwalk, contractor for Courtney and Frederick Yanni. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 37 Acorn Lane, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $36,600. Filed Feb. 20. Hellthaler, Christopher, contractor for Megin and Jeffrey Cramer. Lay foundation for a new single-family residence, 69 Round Hill Drive, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $253,000. Filed Feb. 19. Henry Roofing and Home Improvement, contractor for BCSS Maple L.L.C. Re-roof an existing single-family residence, 4 Prospect St., Bethel. Estimated cost: $8,900. Filed Feb. 22. Hicks Construction L.L.C., Brookfield, contractor for Timothy Richards. Perform interior renovations and alterations at an existing single-family residence, 68 Saunders Lane, Ridgefield. Estimated cost: $20,000. Filed Feb. 22. Johnston, Lindsay and Stephen. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 318 Dunnlea Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $35,000. Filed Feb. 22. Kellogg Brothers Inc., contractor for Nancy McDade. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 4 Rivard Crescent, Westport. Estimated cost: $85,000. Filed Feb. 26. Kellogg, Michael, contractor for Nancy Dispirito and Fred Loder. Perform interior renovations at an existing singlefamily residence, 540 Warner Hill Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $23,000. Filed Feb. 27. Kelly, Gail. Perform roof maintenance to an existing single-family residence, 12 Canterbury Circle, Westport. Estimated cost: $4,000. Filed Feb. 26. Kerschner Development Co., Norwalk, contractor for David Woodward. Construct a new single-family residence, 16 Tonetta Circle, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $275,000. Filed Feb. 26. Kitmiridis, Peter. Construct a new single-family residence, 54 Forbell Drive, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $117,000. Filed Feb. 27. Kozer, Clifford. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 485 Greenfield Hill Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed Feb. 20. L&L Builders & Fine Carpentry L.L.C., Bethel, contractor for Brian Franz. Perform additions and alterations at an existing single-family residence, 65 Peaceable St., Ridgefield. Estimated cost: $325,000. Filed Feb. 22. LCP Homes Inc., contractor for George Frank. Construct a new single-family residence, 6 Winker Lane, Westport. Estimated cost: $710,000. Filed Feb. 27. Leyden, Rita and Thomas. Repair storm damage to a single-family residence, 6 Bradley St., Westport. Estimated cost: $100,000. Filed Feb. 25.

Livingston, Donald. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 15 Edith Lane, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $35,000. Filed Feb. 19.

Smith, Kelly and Timothy. Repair storm damage to a single-family residence, 9 Juniper Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $46,500. Filed Feb. 20.

M & M Constructions L.L.C., contractor for Susan and Patrick Brand. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 267 S. Gate Lane, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $39,000. Filed Feb. 22.

Solarcity Corp., San Mateo, contractor for Roseanna and John Distasio. Install solar panels at an existing single-family residence, 38 Homer St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $47,040. Filed Feb. 28.

Magnotta, Jon. Construct an accessory building with a habitable space at a single-family residence, 7 Buckthorn Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $35,000. Filed Feb. 25. Morris, Philip, contractor for Mei and Terence Oh Siew Hui. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 2 Gilbert Lane, Westport. Estimated cost: $40,000. Filed Feb. 21. Oh Siew Hui, Terrence and Mei. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 2 Gilbert Lane, Westport. Estimated cost: $40,000. Filed Feb. 21. Perez, Antonio, contractor for Matthew Sugarman. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 6 Hillyfield Lane, Westport. Estimated cost: $19,000. Filed Feb. 25. Pinnacle Peak Inc., contractor for Jennifer Grascher. Add a two-story addition to an existing single-family residence and an accessory building, 1478 Uniquowa Road, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $225,000. Filed Feb. 27. R&J Faucher L.L.C., Norwalk, contractor for Renzulli Associates Mobil Home Park. Perform external renovations at an existing single-family residence, 505 Westport Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $4,000. Filed Feb. 28. Renewable Resources Energy, Stamford, contractor for George Willatt. Install solar panels at an existing singlefamily residence, 214 W. Rocks Road, Norwalk. Estimated cost: $7,457. Filed Feb. 20. Schutzman, Philip. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 42 County St., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $15,000. Filed Feb. 21. Setti Construction, Norwalk, contractor for Richard Dube. Re-roof an existing single-family residence, 150 Newtown Ave., Norwalk. Estimated cost: $8,900. Filed Feb. 22. Shore and Country Partners L.L.C., contractor for Beth and Bradford Jones. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 96 College Park Drive, Fairfield. Estimated cost: $29,000. Filed Feb. 26. Smart Solution Contractors, contractor for James Walsh. Perform interior renovations at an existing single-family residence, 3 Gorham Ave., Westport. Estimated cost: $38,000. Filed Feb. 22.

COURT CASES

Bridgeport District Court American Stone L.L.C. Filed by European Granite & Marble Group Inc. Plaintiff’s attorney: Edward D. Jacobs, New Haven. Action: The plaintiff has brought a breach-of-contract suit against the defendant for failing to pay for goods and merchandise purchased on an open account. The plaintiff claims damages in excess of $15,000. Filed Feb. 25. Case no. 6033445. Arctic Towers L.L.C., Bridgeport. Filed by WPCA of the city of Bridgeport. Plaintiff’s attorney: Russell D. Liskov, Bridgeport. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for its failure to pay water utilities services in the amount of $1010.67. Filed Feb. 21. Case no. 6033349. Ash Creek Saloon (Norwalk) L.L.C., Norwalk. Filed by U.S. Foods Inc., Yantic. Plaintiff’s attorney: Steven M. Zehman, Farmington. Action: The plaintiff has brought a breach-of-contract suit against the defendant for failing to pay for merchandise purchased on an open account. Filed Feb. 22. Case no. 6033431. Bergin Properties L.L.C., Bridgeport. Filed by WPCA of the city of Bridgeport. Plaintiff’s attorney: Russell D. Liskov, Bridgeport. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for its failure to pay water utilities services in the amount of $871.94. Filed Feb. 21. Case no. 6033356. Harriet Manor L.L.C., Bridgeport. Filed by WPCA of the city of Bridgeport. Plaintiff’s attorney: Russell D. Liskov, Bridgeport. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for its failure to pay water utilities services in the amount of $1,147.12. Filed Feb. 21. Case no. 6033378. Perey Turnstiles Inc., Bridgeport. Filed by Chromalloy Castings Tampa Corp., Tampa, Fla. Plaintiff’s attorney: Paul M. Geraghty, New London. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant, which entered into an agreement to sell turnstiles and related equipment and has failed to make a timely delivery of equipment. The plaintiff claims monetary damages in excess of $15,000. Filed Feb. 25. Case no. 6033463.

20 Week of March 11, 2013 • Fairfield County Business Journal

PMJ Property investments L.L.C. d.b.a. Mel’s Discount Liquor, Norwalk. Filed by Connecticut Distributors Inc., Stratford. Plaintiff’s attorney: Andrew R. Bilodeau and Ryanna T. Capolbo, Warwick, R.I. Action: The plaintiff has brought a breach-of-contract suit against the defendant for failing to make payment on delivered products and goods sold to the defendant. Filed Feb. 25. Case no. 6033462. PSC Industrial Outsourcing L.P., Bridgeport. Filed by Allen Payne, Waterbury. Plaintiff’s attorney: John C. Drapp III, Bridgeport. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for unlawful discrimination due to his medical condition, which has resulted in the his job reclassification. The plaintiff claims damages in excess of $2,500. Filed Feb. 25. Case no. 6033469. Small, Russell Esquire, Bridgeport. Filed by Jose Delmoral, Bridgeport. Plaintiff’s attorney: Agustin Sevillano, Bridgeport. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for failing to give the plaintiff appropriate legal representation for a suit that was brought for a personal injury. The plaintiff claims monetary damages in excess of $15,000. Filed Feb. 26. Case no. 6033498. The Milford Hospital Inc., Milford. Filed by Juliete Larose, Plaintiff’s attorney: Dominick and Rodriguez Rendina, Danbury. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for its failure to provide the plaintiff with adequate health care and for its failure to exercise a degree of diligence and skill. The plaintiff claims damages in excess of $15,000. Filed Feb. 25. Case no. 6033448.

Danbury District Court Everest HVAC L.L.C., et al. Filed by Danbury Plumbing Supply Co. Inc., Danbury. Plaintiff’s attorney: John Jowdy, Danbury. Action: The plaintiff has brought a breach-of-contract suit against the defendant for failing to pay for certain merchandise purchased from the plaintiff on an open account. The plaintiff has failed to pay the outstanding balance of $39,459.48. Filed Feb. 27. Case no. 6011738. Pinnacle Homes L.L.C. and PHCM L.L.C., Brookfield. Filed by Preferred Air Systems Inc., Danbury. Plaintiff’s attorney: Randall J. Carreira, New Preston. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant after entering into a written agreement with the defendant to install a heating and air conditioning system. The balance due and owing to the plaintiff is $8,305. Filed Feb. 26. Case no. 6011719.

Stamford District Court Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals Inc., et al., Ridgefield. Filed by Chukakun Nix, Magnolia, Ark. Plaintiff’s attorney: Marisa A. Bellair and Steven J. Errante, New Haven. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant for product liability of Paradaxa and its failure to disclose a warning section, which states that there was no way to reverse the anticoagulent effects of the medication. The plaintiff claims monetary damages in excess of $15,000. Filed Feb. 22. Case no. 6017314. Santorinos Watch Group, Norwalk. Filed by Niche Media, Norwalk. Plaintiff’s attorney: Charles T. Busek, Norwalk. Action: The plaintiff has brought a breach-of-contract suit against the defendant for failure to pay for advertising services on an open account. The defendant has failed or neglected to pay the total owed the plaintiff. Filed Feb. 26. Case no. 6017349. World Latino Express L.L.C. and Celina Romero, Stamford. Filed by TransFast Remittance L.L.C., New York City. Plaintiff’s Attorney: Patricia Moore, Bridgeport. Action: The plaintiff has brought this suit against the defendant who was responsible for the transmission of money and payment instructions. The defendant did not perform or fulfill its obligations and is negligent of breach of terms. The plaintiff claims monetary damages. Filed Feb. 26. Case no. 6017354.

DEEDS

COMMERCIAL CLT Stillman L.L.C., Fairfield. Seller: Indian Spring L.P., Greenwich. Property: 27 Stillman Lane, Lot 32, Greenwich. Amount: $1.7 million. Filed Feb. 20. CPC I L.L.C., Westport. Seller: 786 to 788 Post Road L.L.C., Westport. Property: 786 to 788 Post Road East, Westport. Amount: $900,000. Filed Feb. 20.

QUIT CLAIM Vacca, Genevieve, Stamford. Seller: Evelyn Vacca Simone, Lincraft, N.J. Property: 28 Mianus Road, Stamford. Amount: $150,000. Filed Feb. 22.

RESIDENTIAL 45 Harbor View L.L.C., Westport. Seller: Joan C. Crawford, Norwalk. Property: 45 Harbor View Ave., Norwalk. Amount: $347,000. Filed Feb. 21. 74 Bouton Street West L.L.C., Stamford. Seller: Stephanie Tonning, Shelton and Brian Deblasi, Wallingford. Property: 74 Bouton Street West, Stamford. Amount: $341,000. Filed Feb. 22. 8 Glen Road L.L.C., New Fairfield. Seller: Anita G. Jannsen, New Fairfield. Property: 8 Glen Road, New Fairfield. Amount: $158,000. Filed Feb. 26.

Abraham, Ansu A.; Abraham Matthews and Sudha Abraham Oareth, Danbury. Seller: Khamphou and Boualiene Khotpanya, Danbury. Property: 11 Margerie St., Danbury. Amount: $347,000. Filed Feb. 19. Acquaviva, Jennifer M. and Anthony E., Fairfield. Seller: Pamela L. and Robert P. Luise, Fairfield. Property: 49 Beverly Lane, Fairfield. Amount: $735,000. Filed Feb. 25. Ajao, Temitope, Stamford. Seller: George W. Overton, Stamford. Property: 48 Dora St., Unit 3C, Stamford. Amount: $277,500. Filed Feb. 25. Akyz, Ralph, Norwalk. Seller: Carla J. Kelly, Milwaukee, Wis. Property: 5 William St., Norwalk. Amount: $370,000. Filed Feb. 21. Alperin, Pauline and Justin, Norwalk. Seller: Elizabeth and Raymond J. Mosser, Norwalk. Property: 115 Fillow St., Unit 50, Norwalk. Amount: $280,000. Filed Feb. 20. Arcadi, Holly and Joseph, Seller: Toth Investments L.L.C., Property: 30 Ellery Lane, Westport. Amount: $3.1 million. Filed Feb. 25. Brown, Marjorie A. and Justin, Norwalk. Seller: Lydia S. Smith, Fairfield. Property: 95 Buena Vista Road, Fairfield. Amount: $309,500. Filed Feb. 25. Burdick, Andrew M. and Sarah M., Riverside. Seller: Catherine J. and Mark J. Cone, Hermosa Beach, Calif. Property: 21 Indian Head Road, Riverside. Amount: $3.7 million. Filed Feb. 25. Cargialosi, Jennifer A., Redding. Seller: Bethel Danbury II L.L.C., White Plains, N.Y. Property: 64 Tucker St., Danbury. Amount: $294,636. Filed Feb. 20. Carty, Christy and Stephen, Greenwich. Seller: First Niagara Bank N.A., New Haven. Property: 17 Sherwood Ave., Greenwich. Amount: $1.6 million. Filed Feb. 22. Chadwick, Ana Maria and Tomas R., Norwalk. Seller: Pauline and Louis Marra, Norwalk. Property: 105 Richards Ave., Unit 1303, Norwalk. Amount: $300,000. Filed Feb. 22. Chitoor, Ranganathan P., Stamford. Seller: Lisa Laverde-Featherson and Patrick Featherson, Stamford. Property: 806 Hope St., Unit 3, Stamford. Amount: $434,000. Filed Feb. 22. Claybourne, Patricia, Stamford. Seller: Scott E. Geiger, Stamford. Property: 71 Pine Hill Ave., Unit E, Stamford. Amount: $240,000. Filed Feb. 22. Copp, Bonita Marie, Greenwich. Seller: Margaret Graham Pendergast, Greenwich. Property: 24 Shore Road, Old Greenwich. Amount: $1.3 million. Filed Feb. 19. Collins, Lesley A. and Kevin B., Greenwich. Seller: Beachside Estates L.L.C., Fairfield. Property: 76 Paul Place, Fairfield. Amount: $925,000. Filed Feb. 19.


on the record CREDITS, CLIENTS AND AWARDS

ON THE GO

MONDAY APRIL 1

ENERGIZE CONNECTICUT, in partnership with Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating, recently announced the ninth annual eesmarts contest for students in grades K-12. The eesmarts program is a K-12 energy efficiency and clean, renewable energy education initiative that annually invites Connecticut students to showcase their “energy smarts” about saving energy, efficient and renewable energy technologies and sustainability through various media forms. Finalists for each grade level will be honored at a special awards ceremony June 11 at the State Capitol in Hartford. The contest is open to all students in Connecticut and the deadline for entries is April 26. For information, visit eesmarts. com/contest.

Effective Business Writing four-hour workshop led by business TUESDAY MARCH 19 trainer Victoria Amon. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., 3 Sylvan Road South, WestWomen Who Matter luncheon series for businesswomen who make port. $495 per person, registration limited to 18 people, pre-registraa difference and impact the Greenwich community, featuring guest tion required. For information, visit westportwritersworkshop.com, speaker Susan Ball, deputy director of Bruce Museum. 12:30 to 2 p.m. email info@westportwritersworkshop.com or call 227-3250. The Ginger Man, 64 Greenwich Ave. $40 (includes choice of entrees, salad, dessert, coffee/tea). For information, call 869-3500 or email greenwichchamber@greenwichchamber.com.

NEWSMAKERS

PULLMAN & COMLEY L.L.C. law firm employees wore red Feb. 1 for the National Wear Red Day celebration to benefit the American Heart Association (AHA). In its 10th year, the event raises awareness and funds to fight cardiovascular disease, the No. 1 killer of women. Participants wear red, donate to the Go Red For Women movement and receive a red dress pin. Pullman & Comley attorneys Cara Ceraso and Aimee Wood, members of Go Red’s Corporate Leadership Council and Pullman & Comley’s Women’s Leadership Initiative organized the firm-wide event.

JOHN C. FUSCO recently joined law firm Edwards Wildman Palmer L.L.P. as a partner in the business law department. Working in the firm’s Stamford office, Fusco will enhance the firm’s capabilities in import and export matters. He focuses his practice on international trade and government contracting, including export compliance and controls and U.S. Customs and trade laws. Most recently, Fusco was partner at the Hartford office of Shipman & Goodwin. He has a bachelor’s degree from Providence College and a law degree from the University of Bridgeport School of Law.

SNAPSHOT

PETER A. S. PFEIFFER, regional managing business development director at McGladrey L.L.P., a provider of assurance, tax and consulting services for the middle market, has joined the board of directors of the Connecticut chapter of the Turnaround Management Association (TMA), which is the leading organization dedicated to turnaround management, corporate restructuring and distressed investing. TMA has more than 9,000 members in 48 chapters worldwide, including 31 in North America. Members include turnaround practitioners, attorneys, accountants, investors, lenders, venture capitalists, appraisers, liquidators, executive recruiters and consultants, as well as academic, government and judicial employees. DR. STEVEN M. KANT, of Easton, was recently appointed president and CEO of Boys & Girls Village (BGV). Founded in 1942, BGV, headquartered in Milford, is one of Connecticut’s leading community providers for families and children struggling with emotional, behavioral and psychiatric difficulties. Kant previously served as chief medical officer at BGV for the past 15 years and most recently served as acting CEO in concert with his duties as chief medical officer. During his tenure, Kant has led the agency and expanded its treatment services as well as advancing the agency’s more traditional social child welfare and educational programs.

Employees of the firm’s Bridgeport office wear red Feb. 1. Information for these features has been submitted by the subjects or their delegates.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSMAKERS NEWSLETTER

KERS NEWSSMLAETTER W NE

Get all the executive promotions and moves, awards and snapshots we publish in the Business Journals delivered to your inbox on Monday mornings. suBscriBe at WESTFAIRONLINE.COM/HOME/BREAKING-NEWS/ FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 21


on the record Corool, Yamel A. and Alvaro Iglesias, Stamford. Seller: Josephine Muoio, Norwalk. Property: 243 Ely Ave., Norwalk. Amount: $180,000. Filed Feb. 19.

Kitmiridis, Eirini, Norwalk. Seller: Marie M. Bienaime, Norwalk. Property: 72 Winfield St., Norwalk. Amount: $305,000. Filed Feb. 21.

Cullen, Christopher J., Westport. Seller: Laura Skutch, Norwalk, and Andrew Skutch, Itacha, N.Y. Property: 244 Wilton Road, Westport. Amount: $636,250. Filed Feb. 21.

Kwan, Lori H. and Wen Chun Hsu, Ridgefield. Seller: Federal National Mortgage Association, Washington, D.C. Property: 23 Fire Hill Road, Ridgefield. Amount: $230,000. Filed Feb. 21.

DiCairano, Stacey L. and David, Sleepy Hollow, N.Y. Seller: Kathleen and Richard Dunne, New Fairfield. Property: 14 Erin Drive, New Fairfield. Amount: $315,000. Filed Feb. 20.

Lau, Jennifer and Michael, Rye, N.Y. Seller: 504 North Street L.L.C., Greenwich. Property: 504 North St., Greenwich. Amount: $5.8 million. Filed Feb. 20.

Dziouksz, Erika and Juan I. Quesada, Danbury. Seller: Diane Theurer and Alan I. Farbman, Danbury. Property: 23 Maplecrest Drive, Danbury. Amount: $405,000. Filed Feb. 14. Enre Properties L.L.C., Norwalk. Seller: Federal National Mortgage Association, Washington, D.C. Property: 225 Sunrise Hill Lane, Norwalk. Amount: $215,000. Filed Feb. 20. Fass, Jessica Leigh and Zachary Peter, Stamford. Seller: Pacienca Tena Mallari, Nicholasa Pe Kao and Alfred C. Kao, Wilton. Property: 11 Meredith Lane, Stamford. Amount: $485,000. Filed Feb. 20. Flynn, Samantha Conetta and Robert M., New Fairfield. Seller: Dorothy A. Hess, Naples, Fla. Property: 18 Middleton Drive, New Fairfield. Amount: $337,900. Filed Feb. 25. Frattaroli, Frank A. Jr., Stamford. Seller: U.S Bank N.A., trustee, Salt Lake City, Utah. Property: 94 Virgil St., Stamford. Amount: $280,000. Filed Feb. 25. Gao, Ying, Stamford. Seller: Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, McLean, Va. Property: 26 Gregory St., Stamford. Amount: $121,000. Filed Feb. 21. Gerard, Janece, Stamford. Seller: Jane and Daniel M. DeBartolo, Stamford. Property: 95 Intervale Road, Unit 26, Stamford. Amount: $590,000. Filed Feb. 22. Greco, Linda A. and Karen E. Grant, Norwalk. Seller: Dolores Russo Austin and Alan J. Austin Jr., Dallas, Texas. Property: 12 Mohawk Drive, Norwalk. Amount: $457,000. Filed Feb. 22. Hall, Lucille K. and John D., Ridgefield. Seller: Gabrielle G. Brady, Stamford. Property: 120 Prospect St., Unit 11, Ridgefield. Amount: $455,000. Filed Feb. 21. Howard, Sara, Danbury. Seller: Union Savings Bank, Danbury. Property: 5A Woodside Ave., Unit 64, Danbury. Amount: $60,000. Filed Feb. 20. Kirby, Stephen, Stamford. Seller: Diana Staiger, Stamford. Property: 1230 Hope St., Unit 3, Stamford. Amount: $285,000. Filed Feb. 25.

Laverde-Featherson, Lisa and Patrick C. Featherson, Stamford. Seller: Reva Marian Alterwitz, Stamford. Property: 63 Zora Lane, Stamford. Amount: $665,000. Filed Feb. 25. Lewin, Christine P., Danbury. Seller: Karlene and Carlos F. Baila, Danbury. Property: 3 Rivington Way, Danbury. Amount: $520,000. Filed Feb. 19. Liebowitz, Karen, Norwalk. Seller: Vincent J. Lametta Jr., Norwalk. Property: 136 East Ave., Unit 3D, Norwalk. Amount: $395,000. Filed Feb. 22. Lima, Charlotte J., Old Greenwich. Seller: Linda and William Whitridge, Old Greenwich. Property: Lot 33, Map 2301, Old Greenwich. Amount: $1.02 million. Filed Feb. 20. Maiorano, Melinda M., Fairfield. Seller: Federal National Mortgage Association , Washington, D.C. Property: 65 Hulls Highway, Fairfield. Amount: $344,000. Filed Feb. 20. Marquitte, Barbara A. and Douglas C. Miner, Norwalk. Seller: Susan Reilly, New Smyrna, Fla.; Lisa Jenkins, Boulder, Colo.; Christian Falkenstein, El Portal, Calif. Property: 1 Island Drive, Unit 13, Norwalk. Amount: $570,000. Filed Feb. 22. Matos, Yeimy J. and Pablo O. Bido, Danbury. Seller: NAA Rentals L.L.C., Bethel. Property: 23 Crestdale Road, Danbury. Amount: $245,000. Filed Feb. 19. Mohsin, Rami and Kawsar, Greenwich. Seller: Nancy L. Chang, Greenwich. Property: 22 Church St., Unit A22, Greenwich. Amount: $95,000. Filed Feb. 21. Molina, Isabel and Thomas Harmeyer, Norwalk. Seller: Katherine M. Bugg, Norwalk. Property: 22B Betmalea Road, Norwalk. Amount: $925,500. Filed Feb. 25. Murphy, Juliann C. and Gary G. Brown, Moseley, Va. Seller: Rosemary C. Johnson and Arthur J. Murphy, New Fairfield. Property: 29 Eastview Road, New Fairfield. Amount: $257,500. Filed Feb. 25. Nathanson, Jessica and Eric T. Wattenberg, New York City. Seller: Renee M. and Christopher J. Cullen, Westport. Property: 6 Lantern Hill Road, Westport. Amount: $1.6 million. Filed Feb. 21.

National Residential Nominee Services Inc., Lewisville, Texas. Seller: Christi G. Gettinger and Michael J. Lacorazza, Stamford. Property: 191 Erskine Road, Unit 21 and 18 Ravenglass Drive, Stamford. Amount: $1.8 million. Filed Feb. 20. Nette, William M., Norwalk. Seller: Marlene Kirson, Atlanta, Ga. Property: 73 Fawn Ridge Lane, Norwalk. Amount: $310,000. Filed Feb. 25. Nguyen, Duy, Danbury. Seller: Joann P. Tannenbaum, Newtown. Property: 13 Saw Mill Road, Newtown. Amount: $245,000. Filed Feb. 22. Petrow, Olga and Stanley Jr., Fairfield. Seller: Theresa A. and Scott E. Roberts, Fairfield. Property: 110 Melin Drive, Fairfield. Amount: $785,000. Filed Feb. 22. Richfield Real Estate Investment L.L.C., Seller: Thomas A. Pettrone, Westport. Property: 131 Morningside Drive South, Westport. Amount: $575,000. Filed Feb. 25.

Weglarz, Grzegorz, Norwalk. Seller: Maria P. Meyers, Norwalk. Property: 2 Deerwood Manor, Norwalk. Amount: $340,000. Filed Feb. 25. Westney, Zulma and Craig, Danbury. Seller: The Bank of New York Mellon, Simi Valley, Calif. Property: 99 Osborne St., Danbury. Amount: $240,000. Filed Feb. 21. Wright, Karen and David, Ridgefield. Seller: Heather and Andrew Lynds, Waitsfield, Va. Property: 381 Wilton Road West, Ridgefield. Amount: $930,000. Filed Feb. 20. Zengo, Nancy M. and George V., Norwalk. Seller: James M. Brigger, North Port, Fla. Property: 20 Westview Lane, Norwalk. Amount: $626,750. Filed Feb. 26.

FORECLOSURES

Blasco, Edward, Danbury. $20,425, in favor of Commercial Linens L.L.C. and John J. Royce, Brookfield, by Thomas W. Beecher, Danbury. Property: 128 E. Liberty St., Danbury. Filed Feb. 19. Cummaro, Michael, Stamford. $779,668, in favor of Peacock Manufacturing Co. L.L.C., Norwalk, Christopher Peacock Home L.L.C., Norwalk and Little Bird Furniture L.L.C., Norwalk, by Anthony J. Musto, Fairfield. Property: 28 Munko Drive, Stamford. Filed Feb. 19. Direct Trading Corp. and Costas Nioulikos, Danbury. $53,443.91, in favor of Patriot Flooring Supply Inc., Pompton Plains, N.J., by Steven M. Zelman, Farmington. Property: 10 Driftway Road, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19. Dzamko, John, New Fairfield. $1,132, in favor of Danbury Hospital, Bethel, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 3 Darien Road, New Fairfield. Filed Feb. 25.

Cordov, Elvia and Luis G., et al. Creditor: Citimortgage, Inc., O’Fallon, Mo. Property: 7 Hoyt St., Danbury. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 19.

Ellis, Rudolf J., Danbury. $1,785.38, in favor of Capital One N.A., Richmond Va., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 16 Dana Road, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19.

Kurti, Vjolca M. and Ilmih, et al. Creditor: HSBC Bank USA N.A., Buffalo, N.Y. Property: 100 Gillotti Road, New Fairfield. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 19.

Estevez, Rudiz, Danbury. $533.81, in favor of Danbury Hospital, Bethel, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 13 Roger Ave., First floor, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19.

Lazaro, Rubin, et al. Creditor: Bank of America N.A., Simi Valley, Calif. Property: 51 Scribner Ave., Norwalk. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 25.

Galletta, Sylvia P., Norwalk. $9,294.23, in favor of Capital One N.A., Richmond Va., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 13 Chatham Drive, Norwalk. Filed Feb. 22.

Swersky, Shaun, Pound Ridge, N.Y. Seller: Sandra L. Nelson, Ridgefield. Property: 126 Lakeside Drive, Ridgefield. Amount: $305,000. Filed Feb. 21.

Liebskind, David, et al. Creditor: Aurora Loan Servicing L.L.C., Dallas, Texas. Property: 50 Old Mill Lane, Stamford, Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 20.

Johnson, Charles, Norwalk. $4,734.34, in favor of Periodontology Associates, Norwalk, by Marsha Matthews, Stamford. Property: 4 Glasser St., Norwalk. Filed Feb. 25.

Teixeira, Krystale; Sandi and Barry Hart Jr., Danbury. Seller: Domenico Chiera, New Milford. Property: 20 Virginia Ave., Danbury. Amount: $500,000. Filed Feb. 20.

Mendes, Michael, et al. Creditor: M&T Bank, Buffalo, N.Y. Property: 9 Fairview Ave., Unit 2-9, Danbury. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 14.

Jones, Harold R., Danbury. $7,892.10, in favor of Discover Bank, New Albany, Ohio, by Benjamin P. Mann, Enfield. Property: 13 First Street Extension, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19.

Schupp, Dawn and Jack, Greenwich. Seller: John Mical, Tryon, N.C. Property: 1021 North St., Greenwich. Amount: $490,000. Filed Feb. 19. Seamans, Dorinda A. and Timothy M.P., Wilton. Seller: Barbara Rittner, Norwalk. Property: 7 Singing Woods Road, Norwalk. Amount: $590,000. Filed Feb. 19. Strittmatter, Bonnie, Fairfield. Seller: 1545 L.L.C., Fairfield. Property: 1545 to 1548 Fairfield Beach Road, Fairfield. Amount: $3.2 million. Filed Feb. 20.

Thakur, Sanskriti, Ridgefield. Seller: Roseanne and Neil S. Coppola Jr., Brookfield. Property: 35 Christopher Road, Ridgefield. Amount: $362,000. Filed Feb. 19. Turcote, Susan and John M. Paulsen, Milford. Seller: Nancy J. and Michael Aleksa, Fairfield. Property: 3701 North St., Fairfield. Amount: $789,900. Filed Feb. 26. Vaccaro, Beth Ann and Joseph John, Westport. Seller: Able Construction Inc., Norwalk. Property: 33 Woodside Ave., Westport. Amount: $3.3 million. Filed Feb. 22. Vanickys Inc., Stratford. Seller: Patricia M. Russell, Stratford. Property: 1498 North Ave., Stratford. Amount: $450,000. Filed Feb. 25. Velasquez, Corey, Danbury. Seller: Susan M. Blaisdell, Danbury. Property: 10 Contemporary Drive, Danbury. Amount: $317,500. Filed Feb. 20.

22 Week of March 11, 2013 • Fairfield County Business Journal

Mravak, Bernard, et al. Creditor: Everbank, Jacksonville, Fla. Property: 5 Golden Hill Road, Danbury. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 25. Nash, Nancy B. and Paul A., Creditor: Wells Fargo Bank N.A., Irvine, Calif. Property: 1010 Catamount Road, Fairfield. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 26. Perez, Christian, et al. Creditor: Residential Credit Solutions Inc., Fort Worth, Texas. Property: 160 Shelter Rock Road, Unit 5, Danbury. Judgment of foreclosure has passed. Filed Feb. 25.

JUDGMENTS Akuamoa, Richard, Danbury. $1,891.52, in favor of Midland Funding L.L.C., San Diego, Calif., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 22 Second Ave., Apt. 6, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19.

Kelly, John, New Fairfleid. $2,877.03, in favor of Danbury Hospital, Bethel, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 11 Windmill Road, New Fairfield. Filed Feb. 25. Lavanda, Richard, Fairfield. $2,903.79, in favor of Midland Funding L.L.C., San Diego, Calif., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 181 Burroughs Road, Fairfield. Filed Feb. 19. Lopez, Sandra and Brian; and Discount Drafting Supplies Inc., Ridgefield. $49,640, in favor of Sunil Mehta, Fairfield and Om Mehta, Greenwich, by Anthony J. Musto, Fairfield. Property: 16 Fulling Mill Lane, Ridgefield. Filed Feb. 19. Marquardt, Stefan A., Danbury. $5,347, in favor of Danbury Hospital, Bethel, by Stephen A. Wiener, East Hartford. Property: 9 Lindencrest Drive, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19.

McDonnell, James, Newtown. $475.61, in favor of Danbury Hospital, Bethel, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 49 Sugar Lane, Newtown. Filed Feb. 22. McGowan, Francis, Norwalk. $551.65, in favor of Waterside Financial Inc., Cheshire, by Scarlett A. Tracey. Property: 82 Weed Ave., Norwalk. Filed Feb. 22. Meyer, Joanne, New Fairfleid. $1,879.11, in favor of Danbury Hospital, Bethel, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 16 Beaverbog Road, New Fairfield. Filed Feb. 25. Murphy, Donna L., Greenwich. $4,770.80, in favor of Gelucia and Douglas Salamone, Cos Cob, by Sara M. Gould, Stamford. Property: 27 Orchard St., Cos Cob. Filed Feb. 19. Nevers, Henry A., Fairfield. $2,636.48, in favor of Waterside Financial Inc., Cheshire, by Scarlett A. Tracey. Property: 1970 Kings Highway, Fairfield. Filed Feb. 26. O’Sullivan, Keith, Fairfield. $1,587.59, in favor of Cavalry SPV I L.L.C., Valhalla, N.Y., by Joseph M. Tobin, New Haven. Property: 306 Fairfield Woods Road, Fairfield. Filed Feb. 19. Peters, Mary C., Danbury. $10,721.26, in favor of Target National Bank, Minneapolis, Minn., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 29 Jackson Drive, Danbury. Filed Feb. 19. Redford, Dave, Fairfield. $1,029.54, in favor of Rome Ready Mix and Block Inc., Fulton, N.Y., by Timothy John Kirwan, Oswego, N.Y. Property: 409 High St., Fairfield. Filed Feb. 21. Roberts, Edith, Stamford. $7,046.08, in favor of Midland Funding L.L.C., San Diego, Calif., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 16 Rose Park Ave., Unit 3, Stamford. Filed Feb. 19. Rowley, Fergus G., Stamford. $10,755.02, in favor of U.S. Foodservice Inc., by Stephen A. Sugarmann, New Haven. Property: 20 Miramar Lane, Stamford. Filed Feb. 25. Sanchez, Antonio, Danbury. $1,056.06, in favor of Portfolio Recovery Associates L.L.C., Norfolk, Va., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 40 Harrison St., Danbury. Filed Feb. 19. Thaqi, Mark, Stamford. $3,234.45, in favor of Ford Motor Credit Co. L.L.C., Livonia, Mich., by Nair & Levin P.C., Bloomfield. Property: 44 Ryan St., Stamford. Filed Feb. 19. Ventresca, Charisse, Newtown. $8,507.14, in favor of Discover Bank, New Albany, Ohio, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 98 Hattertown Road, Newtown. Filed Feb. 22. Villacis, Vivian, Stamford. $12,000.95, in favor of Yankee Gas Services Company, Hartford, by Christon R. Kurker-Stewart, Hamden. Property: 15 Blackberry Drive East, Stamford. Filed Feb. 20.


on the record Walker, Ann, Norwalk. $5,600.08, in favor of Midland Funding L.L.C., San Diego, Calif., by Stephen A. Wiener, East Hartford. Property: 50 Aiken St., Apt. 375, Norwalk. Filed Feb. 22. Walso, Margaret M., Ridgefield. $5,608.69, in favor of Citibank N.A., Sioux Falls, S.D., by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 6 Hunt Lane, Ridgefield. Filed Feb. 19. Welcome, Wanda, Stamford. $4,355.85, in favor of GE Capital Retail Bank, Draper, Utah, by Holly Nelen, East Hartford. Property: 616 Hope St., Apt. E, Stamford. Filed Feb. 20. Wolterstorf, Robert M. Jr., Greenwich. $1,542.72, in favor of U.S. Equities Corp., South Salem, N.Y., by Linda Strumpf, New Canaan. Property: 54 N. Old Stone Bridge Road, Greenwich. Filed Feb. 19.

LEASES Savings Bank of Danbury, by Martin G. Morgado. Landlord: Lawrence A. Goldstein, Philip Goldstein, Cynthia Goldstein and Jackie Baxa. Property: 1200 Summer St., Unit 203, Space 2, Stamford. Term: five years, commencing Dec. 19, 2012. Filed Feb. 21.

Stamford Mortgage Co. L.L.C., by Martin G. Morgado. Landlord: 1200 Summer Street Associates. Property: 1200 Summer St., Unit 202, Stamford. Term: five years, commencing Dec. 19, 2012. Filed Feb. 21. Stamford Mortgage Co. L.L.C., by Martin G. Morgado. Landlord: Lawrence A. Goldstein, Philip Goldstein, Cynthia Goldstein and Jackie Baxa. Property: 1200 Summer St., Unit 203, Space 1, Stamford. Term: five years, commencing Dec. 19, 2012. Filed Feb. 21.

LIENS

Brown, Lynn G. and Philip D., 83 Sturges Highway, Westport. $180,051.39, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 20.

Jones, Sherry D., 4 Warren St., Apt. 2E, Stamford. $17,320.55, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Ohalloran, Lisa and Justin, 1314 Shippan Ave., Stamford. $9,712.44, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Tack, Brian S., 150 Southfield Ave., Apt. 1307, Stamford. $18,358.28, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Cabrera, Michele and Armando, 1 Butternut Lane, New Fairfield. $7,152.48, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Kosan, Cheryl and E. Michael, 51 Forest Ave., Apt. 94, Old Greenwich. $56,548.98, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

Olson, Pamela H. and Kenneth M., 79 Easton Road, Westport. $26,516.71, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 20.

Tonis Day Care Inc., 14 Parkhill Ave., Norwalk. $8,261.60, failure to file, or file correct information returns. Filed Feb. 25.

Carmona, Gloria, 9 Talmadge Place, Second floor, Norwalk. $11,740.36, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

Libertas L.L.C., 40 Richards Ave., Suite 3, Norwalk. $17,035.26, failure to file or file correct information returns and payroll taxes. Filed Feb. 25.

Pace, Wenda and Simon Newton Smith, 67 Howard Ave., Norwalk. $119,718.98, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

Tower, Patti A., P.O. Box 32009, Fairfield. $108,565.35, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Platania, Lynn and Gerald, 9 Marc Road, Danbury. $51,058.89, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Ward, Ginny A. and John F., 40 Westwood Drive, Stamford. $4,051.86, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Price, Deborah D. and Christopher K., 126 Knollwood Drive, Fairfield. $51,020.23, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

WR Market Neutral Master Fund Ltd. and WR Emerging Management L.L.C., 40 Signal Road, Stamford. $110,890.71, annual withholding tax return for U.S. source income of foreign persons. Filed Feb. 25.

Deakins, Christine E., 10 Elmwood Ave., Norwalk. $35,403.47, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

FEDERAL TAX LIENSFILED

Ehrlich, Jayne C., 29 Tucker St., Danbury. $14,640.48, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Adam Stelmaszek & Sons Inc., 16 Edison Ave., Fairfield. $6,737.36, payroll taxes. Filed Feb. 19.

Filanowski, Paul, 110 Strawberry Hill Ave., Norwalk. $44,773.56, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

Bartinelli, Mary F., 78 Bartina Lane, Stamford. $331,331.73, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Gellman, Sheri and David, 37 Calhoun Drive, Greenwich. $383,115.55, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Battinelli, Anthony, 78 Bartina Lane, Stamford. $23,807.76, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Heinz, Darren C., 15 Perry Ave., Apt. A7, Norwalk. $4,900.54, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

Blackstone, Tiffany, 481 Old Long Ridge Road, Stamford. $8,855.22, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

Iuraduri, Ann-Mari and Mark, 22 Barlow Place, Fairfield. $117,586.97, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Major, Kevin P., 47 Fox Run Road, Norwalk. $21,876.34, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19. Mansilla, Ana Elio and Alex D. Tejada, 50 Forest St., Apt. 1003, Stamford. $51,469.81, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19. Marrone, Holly and Michael J., 796 N. Salem Road, Ridgefield. $35,617.64, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19. Matthew Browne Construction Co. Inc., 60 Benson Road, Ridgefield. $9,718.85, failure to file or file correct information returns, payroll taxes and quarterly tax returns. Filed Feb. 19. Mecca, Nancy A., 85 Randall Drive, Trumbull. $204,831.75, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

Ridgefield Cycle Centre Inc., 1492 High Ridge Road, Stamford. $16,229.18, payroll taxes and quarterly tax returns. Filed Feb. 19. Rosa Carpentry & Marine Co., 427 W. Putnam Ave., Greenwich. $2,276.15, payroll taxes. Filed Feb. 19. Silra Inc., 137 Selleck St., Unit 139, Stamford. $9,858.82, payroll taxes. Filed Feb. 19.

FEDERAL TAX LIENSRELEASED Adam Stelmaszek & Sons Inc., 16 Edison Ave., Fairfield. $4,665.42, payroll taxes. Filed Feb. 19. Becker, Laura R. and Thomas K. Lawlor, 60 Taylor Place, Southport. $9,413.46, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 23


on the record Beltran, Raul I., 7 Woodrow St., Apt. 1, Fairfield. $25,930.55, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 22. Enright, Kathlooe and Joseph Facella, 2750 Black Rock Turnpike, Fairfield. $1,966.28, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19. Finlayson, Douglas M., 255 Round Hill Road, Greenwich. $75,660.05, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25. Forster, Mark J., 857 Post Road, Fairfield. $11,227.16, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19. Hvizdo, Michael, 31 Wall St., Norwalk. $35,323.34, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25. Kaplan, Richard W., 127 Lake Ave., Greenwich. $140,677.59, trust fund recovery penalty and/or excise taxes imposed. Filed Feb. 19. Lauture, Beatrice, 33 Lincoln Ave., Stamford. $10,236.21, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25. Mallette, Michelle and S. Bannatyne, 259 Milbank Ave., Greenwich. $9,547.80, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19. Morrison, Kathleen M. and Jeffrey F., 1771 Cross Highway, Fairfield. $16,371.78, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 22.

Cotto Restaurant and Wine Bar, Stamford. Filed by JR Carpentry Service, Stamford, by Joanna Horodyska. Property: 51 Bank St., Stamford. Amount: $10,150.00. Filed Feb. 19. GNA Associates L.L.C., Stamford. Filed by Innovative Construction & Design Inc., Sloatsburg, N.Y. Property: 51 Bank St., Stamford. Amount: $66,230.44. Filed Feb. 20. JFS Inc. and 327 West Avenue L.L.C., Stamford. Filed by Pat Munger Construction Co. Inc., Branford, by David Demaio. Property: 327 West Ave., Stamford. Amount: $42,890.45. Filed Feb. 21. Norwalk Center L.L.C. and FPG Norden DC L.L.C., Norwalk. Filed by Cherokee Explosives Inc., Plainville, by J. Robert Britton III. Property: Norden Place, Unit A and Unit B, Norwalk. Amount: $145,691.18. Filed Feb. 22.

MECHANIC’S LIENSRELEASED 737 Canal L.L.C., Stamford. Filed by Kamco Supply Corporation of New England, Walingford, by Ray Barter, 711 Canal St., Stamford. Amount: $14,001.47. Filed Feb. 25. HPC-Six L.L.C., Stamford. Filed by Leedo Manufacturing Co. L.P., East Bernard, Texas, 100 Washington Blvd, Suite 200, Stamford. Amount: $152,087.76. Filed Feb. 25.

Piano, Jorge F., 196 Haviland Court, Stamford. $171,212.46, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

LIS PENDENS

Salinas Cambisaca, Claudio Darwin, 5 Linden Place, Unit 2, Danbury. $17,468.49, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 19.

238 Main Street Restoration L.L.C., Danbury. Filed by J. Paul Vance Jr., Waterbury, for Russell Antonacci, Danbury. Property: 238 Main St., Danbury. Action: to seek relative rights and obligations of parties. Filed Feb. 19.

Solari, Donna and James, 3 Strawbridge Lane, Greenwich. $68,248.80, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25. Solari, James, 3 Strawbridge Lane, Greenwich. $91,160.74, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25. Zabala, Norman, 171 Knickerbocker Ave., Unit 2, Stamford. $7,913.96, tax debt on income earned. Filed Feb. 25.

MECHANIC’S LIENSFILED 272 to 280 Main Avenue L.L.C., Norwalk. Filed by Roxo Construction L.L.C., Shelton, by Jose Paul Roxo. Property: 272 to 280 Main Ave., Norwalk. Amount: $274,017.59. Filed Feb. 22. Begasse, Christine and Kenneth, Greenwich. Filed by Total Interiors L.L.C., North Branford, by John Castlevetro Jr. Property: 32 Bedford Road, Greenwich. Amount: $14,880.00. Filed Feb. 19.

Allum, Denise and Nigel, Norwalk. Filed by Loren M. Bisberg, Farmington, for Everbank, Islandia, N.Y. Property: 67 Beacon St., Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $345,761, dated December 2008. Filed Feb. 26. Arnod, Seth, et al., Fairfield. Filed by Loren M. Bisberg, Farmington, for Bank of America N.A., Charlotte, N.C. Property: 72 Wheeler Park Ave., Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $614,000, dated April 2006. Filed Feb. 25. Bac Home Loans Servicing L.P., Stamford. Filed by Vincent J. Freccia III, Stamford, for Glenbrook Towers Condominium Association Inc., Stamford. Property: 87 Glenbrook Road, Unit 9F, Stamford. Action: to claim a foreclosure. Filed Feb. 19. Bell, Jerome C., et al., Fairfield. Filed for Fairfield County Federal Credit Union, Fairfield. Property: 321 Brookside Drive, Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $40,000, dated March 2007. Filed Feb. 20.

Brodbeck, Barbara and Albert B., et al., Stamford. Filed by Adrienne Roach, Hartford, for OneWest Bank F.S.B., Pasadena, Calif. Property: 56 Dundee Road, Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $712,500, dated July 2007. Filed Feb. 21.

Evans, Robert L., et al., Stamford. Filed by Matthew B. Woods, Norwalk, for Hudson City Savings Bank, Yonkers, N.Y. Property: 128 N. Stamford Road, Unit A, Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $525,000, dated June 2009. Filed Feb. 19.

Hobgood, Elizabeth Louise and Aaron A. Casano, Ridgefield. Filed by Matthew B. Woods, Norwalk, for Hudson City Savings Bank, Yonkers, N.Y. Property: 383 West Lane, Ridgefield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $955,000, dated May 2011. Filed Feb. 19.

Louzada, Marquison A., et al., Danbury. Filed by Erin A. Mutty, Hartford, for Union Savings Bank, Danbury. Property: 6 Quien St., Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $323,000, dated December 2005. Filed Feb. 19.

Caetano, Maria N. and Michael Ferreira, et al., Danbury. Filed by Adam L. Avallone, Farmington, for The Bank of New York Mellon, trustee, New York City. Property: 11 Huntington Drive, Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $649,999, dated August 2006. Filed Feb. 19.

Eversouth L.L.C., et al., Danbury. Filed by Michael D. Reiner, Farmington, for American Tax Funding L.L.C., Jupiter, Fla. Property: 1 to 3 South St., Danbury. Action: to foreclose tax liens levied by the city of Danbury. Filed Feb. 19.

Hossain, Belayet and Farida, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Erika L. Mascaro, Farmington, for Wells Fargo Bank N.A., Frederick, Md. Property: 4 Woodberry Ave., Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $478,000, dated October 2006. Filed Feb. 19.

Madisetti, Sumesh, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Thomas J. Welch, Shelton, for Webster Bank N.A., Waterbury. Property: 2 Hill Court, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $278,000, dated May 2002. Filed Feb. 19.

Carter, Robert E. and Joni R., et al., Stamford. Filed by Kristen Boyle, Hartford, for Union Savings Bank, Danbury. Property: 47 Horton St., Unit D, Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $380,000, dated February 2006. Filed Feb. 20. Carvin, Donald H. and Calvin F. Munson, et al., Fairfield. Filed for Citimortgage Inc., O’Fallon, Mo. Property: 46 Webster St., Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $200,000, dated June 2002. Filed Feb. 26. Coats, Debbie and Robert, et al., Danbury. Filed by Loren M. Bisberg, Farmington, for Bank of America N.A., Charlotte, N.C. Property: 105 Coalpit Hill Road, Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $285,000, dated July 2007. Filed Feb. 21. Connelly, Diane and Thomas, Fairfield. Filed by Kevin M. Casini, Hartford, for Bank of America N.A., Charlotte, N.C. Property: 190 Brookview Ave., Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $530,000, dated February 2006. Filed Feb. 19. Coscio, Michael J., Ridgefield. Filed for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 75 Taunton Hill Road, Ridgefield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage dated February 1998. Filed Feb. 19. Csiki, Lisa A. and Stephen J., Norwalk. Filed by Kristen Boyle, Hartford, for OneWest Bank F.S.B., Pasadena, Calif. Property: 2 William St., Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $320,000, dated June 2007. Filed Feb. 26. DaSilva, Sandra M. and Joao A., Danbury. Filed by Kristen Boyle, Hartford, for Federal National Mortgage Association, Washington, D.C. Property: 50 Davis St., Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $242,000, dated February 2008. Filed Feb. 19. Erol, Conan and Mustafa Kemal, et al., Fairfield. Filed by Adrienne Roach, Hartford, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 24 Ardmore St., Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $288,000, dated September 2005. Filed Feb. 21.

24 Week of March 11, 2013 • Fairfield County Business Journal

Eversouth L.L.C., et al., Danbury. Filed by Michael D. Reiner, Farmington, for American Tax Funding L.L.C., Jupiter, Fla. Property: 5 South St., Danbury. Action: to foreclose tax liens levied by the city of Danbury. Filed Feb. 20. Felder, Carol D., et al., Norwalk. Filed by Michael S. Alexander, Hamden, for Haviland Arms Condominium Association Inc., Norwalk. Property: 399 Main St., Apt. 822, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose on unpaid common charges. Filed Feb. 25. Flores, Consuelo and Marco, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Karen J. Lucien, Hartford, for The Bank of New York Mellon, trustee, New York City. Property: 10 Charles St., Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $328,000, dated February 2005. Filed Feb. 21. Gantt, Reginald, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Kristen Boyle, Hartford, for Deutsche Bank National Trust, trustee, Los Angeles, Calif. Property: 45 Stuart Ave., Unit D, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $217,425, dated February 2006. Filed Feb. 20. Gaviria, Claudia and William, Norwalk. Filed by Kevin Casini, Hartford, for Bank of America N.A., Charlotte, N.C. Property: 16 Leann Drive, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $352,500, dated July 2005. Filed Feb. 26. Gjuraj, Isni and Have, et al., Stamford. Filed by Adam L. Avallone, Farmington, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 83 Palmer Ave., Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $229,245, dated December 2000. Filed Feb. 19. Hadley, Albert L. Estate, Fairfield. Filed by David M. Lehn and John A. Farnsworth, Greenwich, for Southport Congregational United Church, Southport. Property: 504 Pequot Ave., Fairfield. Action: to seek an appeal from certain orders of the Court of Probate. Filed Feb. 19. Hammett, Shele and Michael, et al., Stamford. Filed for Glenhaven Condominium Association Inc., Stamford. Property: 421 Glenbrook Road, Unit 8, Stamford. Action: to claim a foreclosure. Filed Feb. 22.

Howland, Gerald G., et al., Greenwich. Filed by Erik Loftus, East Hartford, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 2 Ivy St., Greenwich. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $337,700, dated March 2004. Filed Feb. 21. Into, Lorna, Stamford. Filed by Erik Loftus, East Hartford, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 60 Lawn Ave., Unit 35, Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $280,000, dated August 2007. Filed Feb. 19. Jackman, Geraldine and Patricia A. Bonis, et al., Stamford. Filed by Vincent J. Freccia III, Stamford, for the city of Stamford. Property: 39 Ferris Ave., Stamford. Action: to foreclose tax liens levied by the city of Stamford. Filed Feb. 22. Johnson, Sharon B. and Alan J., et al., Danbury. Filed by Christopher G. Winans, Danbury, for Savings Bank of Danbury, Danbury. Property: 8A South King St., Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $255,000, dated March 2008. Filed Feb. 14. Kestenbaun, John, Norwalk. Filed by Michael S. Alexander, Hamden, for Haviland Arms Condominium Association Inc., Norwalk. Property: 13 June Ave., Norwalk. Action: to foreclose on unpaid common charges. Filed Feb. 25. Knowles, Brooke, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Erika L. Mascaro, Farmington, for Connecticut Housing Financial Authority, Bridgeport. Property: 11 Bedford Ave., Unit E-3, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $166,500, dated March 2009. Filed Feb. 19. Lopez, Rosario and Juan J., et al., Danbury. Filed by Gregg A. Brauneisen, Danbury, for Somers Village Association Inc., Danbury. Property: 19 Somers St., Unit B-6, Danbury. Action: to foreclose a statutory lien on this unit. Filed Feb. 20. Louis, Marie Josaphat and Louissant, Norwalk. Filed by Kristen Boyle, Hartford, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 7 Hedge Drive, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $345,000, dated July 2006. Filed Feb. 26.

Miele, Patrick, Greenwich. Filed by Kristen Boyle, Hartford, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 27 Vineyard Lane, Greenwich. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $3.9 million, dated June 2007. Filed Feb. 19. Miglietta, Lisa and Bruno, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Adrienne Roach, Hartford, for Citimortgage Inc., O’Fallon, Mo. Property: 16 Pumpkin Lane, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $417,000, dated February 2008. Filed Feb. 21. Montuoro, Mario (Estate), et al., Danbury. Filed by Karen J. Lucien, Hartford, for OneWest Bank F.S.B., Pasadena, Calif. Property: 68 Virginia Ave., Unit 12, Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $405,000, dated April 2006. Filed Feb. 19. Novak, JoAnn C., et al., Stamford. Filed by Alan P. Rosenberg, West Hartford, for Crescent Condominium Association Inc., Stamford. Property: 34 Crescent St., Unit 1F, Stamford. Action: to foreclose on unpaid common assessments. Filed Feb. 21. Palma, Luis, et al., Stamford. Filed by Lauramarie Sirois, Farmington, for Schooner Cove I Condominium Association Inc., Stamford. Property: 79 Harbor Drive, Stamford. Action: to foreclose on unpaid common assessments. Filed Feb. 19. Patterson, Deborah and Jonathan, et al., Stamford. Filed by Amy L. Harrison, Farmington, for Deutsche Bank National Trust, trustee, Los Angeles, Calif. Property: 37 Wynnewood Lane, Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $1 million, dated March 2006. Filed Feb. 21. Piatek, Magdelena A. and Tomasz C., et al., Norwalk. Filed by Amy L. Harrison, Farmington, for Federal National Mortgage Association, Washington, D.C. Property: 10 Arch St., Unit C7, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $228,000, dated September 2007. Filed Feb. 22. Pittala, Dawn Santomero, Ridgefield. Filed by Karen J. Lucien, Hartford, for Central Mortgage Co., Little Rock, Ariz. Property: 24 Settlers Lane, Ridgefield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $526,000, dated April 2007. Filed Feb. 20.


on the record Roland, Delinda and Jeffrey, et al., Norwalk. Filed by Kevin Casini, Hartford, for Suntrust Mortgage Inc., Richmond, Va. Property: 5 Lakeview Drive, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $271,990, dated January 2008. Filed Feb. 26. Rozsa, Ellen and George, Greenwich. Filed by Mark A. Piech, Farmington, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 2 View St., Greenwich. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $320,000, dated October 2003. Filed Feb. 19. Sabbakhan, Michele, et al., Stamford. Filed by Karen J. Lucien, Hartford, for HSBC Bank USA N.A., Buffalo, N.Y. Property: 58 George St., Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of. Filed Feb. 21. Sacco Barbara E. and John A., Norwalk. Filed by Michael S. Alexander, Hamden, for Skyview Condominium Association, Norwalk. Property: 267 W. Cedar St., Unit 1C, Norwalk. Action: to foreclose on unpaid common charges. Filed Feb. 25. Salerno, Stephen D., Greenwich. Filed by Adrienne Roach, Hartford, for Household Realty Corp., Dayton, Ohio. Property: 107 Pemberwich Road, Greenwich. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $495,578, dated December 2008. Filed Feb. 19. Saunders, Mary M. and William T., Fairfield. Filed by Karen J. Lucien, Hartford, for GMAC Mortgage L.L.C., Fort Washington, Pa. Property: 1352 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $477,200, dated April 2005. Filed Feb. 19. Selasnder, Sandra P. and Sven Eric Jr., et al., Fairfield. Filed by Amanda Tiernan, West Warwick, R.I, for Deutsche Bank National Trust, trustee, Los Angeles, Calif. Property: 97 Wheeler Park Ave., Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $445,000, dated October 2004. Filed Feb. 21. Sotipuolos, Helen and Leopold Henry, et al., Stamford. Filed by Douglas Sauvé, Hartford, for Deutsche Bank National Trust, trustee, Los Angeles, Calif. Property: 98 McMullen Ave., Stamford. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $637,500, dated December 2005. Filed Feb. 19.

Stone, Alison and Jeffrey, Greenwich. Filed for Signature Bank, Toledo, Ohio. Property: 59 Indian Field Road, Greenwich. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $500,000, dated July 2007. Filed Feb. 22. Sycamore Trails Group L.L.C., et al., Danbury. Filed by Michael D. Reiner, Farmington, for American Tax Funding L.L.C., Jupiter, Fla. Property: 37 Cannonball Drive, Danbury. Action: to foreclose tax liens levied by the city of Danbury. Filed Feb. 20.

Vanbrodt Estates L.L.C., Fairfield, by Matthew Brodtman. Lender: Fairfield County Bank, Ridgefield. Property: 42 Burr Farms Road, Westport. Amount: $516,000. Filed Feb. 20.

Riverside Plaza Condominium Association Inc., Norwalk, can be obtained from Sequoia Management Corp., 666 Lexington Ave., Unit 207, Mount Kisco, N.Y. 10549. Filed Feb. 25.

Woodfield Unit Owners Association Inc., Fairfield, can be obtained from Imagineers L.L.C., 635 Farmington Ave., Hartford 06105. Filed Feb. 26.

Westport Ventures L.L.C., Westport, by Elaine Gibbons. Lender: Bank of Fairfield, Fairfield. Property: 925 Post Road East, Westport. Amount: $900,000. Filed Feb. 21.

San Vincenzo Place, Norwalk, can be obtained from Sequoia Management Corp., 666 Lexington Ave., Unit 207, Mount Kisco, N.Y. 10549. Filed Feb. 25.

PATENTS

NEW BUSINESSES

Todd, Benjamin, et al., Danbury. Filed by Nicole M. Fitzgerald, Farmington, for JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A., Columbus, Ohio. Property: 38 Soundview Drive, Danbury. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $246,000, dated May 2007. Filed Feb. 14.

ABA Providers Services, 50 Washington St., Suite 502, Norwalk 06854, c/o John Calderon. Filed Feb. 12.

Valentine, David, New Fairfield. Filed by Kevin Casini, Hartford, for Federal National Mortgage Association, Washington, D.C. Property: 23 Soundview Road, New Fairfield. Action: to foreclose a delinquent mortgage in the original principal amount of $202,500, dated October 2005. Filed Feb. 25.

AT&J’s Beauty Salon, 1B Division St., Danbury 06810, c/o Niove Martinez de Mendez. Filed Feb. 25.

MORTGAGES

Axel Interiors, 33 North Ave., Norwalk 06851, c/o DM Cross Associates L.L.C. Filed Feb. 1.

Anne Pigue Design, 270 Old Post Road, Fairfield 06824, c/o Anne Pigue. Filed Feb. 25.

Auras House Cleaning, 23 Elmwood Ave., Norwalk 06854, c/o Aura Martinez. Filed Feb. 13.

commerciaL 25 Glover Partners L.L.C., 35 Glover Partners L.L.C., 45 Glover Partners L.L.C., and Merrit River Commercial L.L.C., Stamford, by Paul J. Kuehner. Lender: Bank of America N.A., Charlotte, N.C. Property: 10 and Glover Ave., Unit 1; 45 Glover Ave.; 801 and 901 Main Ave., Norwalk. Amount: $30 million. Filed Feb. 19. 327 Main Avenue Associates, Norwalk, by Raffaele Sandolo. Lender: Washington Trust Co., Westerly, R.I. Property: 308, 314 and 327 Main St. and 8 Perry Ave., Norwalk. Amount: $4 million. Filed Feb. 19. Coleman Business Holdings L.L.C., Greenwich, by Joseph P. Coleman. Lender: Connecticut Community Bank N.A. d.b.a. The Greenwich Bank and Trust Co., Greenwich. Property: 23 Maple Ave., Greenwich. Amount: $240,000. Filed Feb. 21. Jesta Hospitality CT L.L.C., New York City, by Jason Aintabi. Lender: MAM Old Ridgebury Road Lender L.L.C., New York City. Property: 18 Old Ridgebury Road, Danbury. Amount: $9 million. Filed Feb. 14.

BE Aerospace Inc., 650 Long Beach Blvd., Stratford 06615, c/o BE Arospace. Filed Feb. 25. Beauty by Maria Cristina, 14 Taylor Ave., Apt. 2-D, Norwalk 06854, c/o Maria Cristina Espinal. Filed Feb. 4. Bidbeacon.com, 30 Gillies Lane, Norwalk 06854, c/o Bid & Fix L.L.C. Filed Feb. 13.

NOTICES

Victoria Lane Condominium Association Inc., Norwalk, can be obtained from Westford Real Estate Management L.L.C., c/o MaryJo Withee, 50 Founders Plaza, Suite 207, East Hartford 06108. Filed Feb. 21. Walnut Tree village Condominium Association Inc., Newtown, can be obtained from Imagineers L.L.C., 635 Farmington Ave., Hartford 06105. Filed Feb. 22. Westmore Condominium Association 10 to 12 Tuttle St., 12 Tuttle St., Stamford, can be obtained from Josephine Arceri, 12 Tuttle St., Stamford 06901. Filed Feb. 22.

Boron ion implantation using alternative fluorinated boron precursors, and formation of large boron hydrides for implantation. Patent no. 8,389,068 issued to W. Karl Olander, Indian Shores, Fla.; Jose I. Arno, Brookfield; and Robert Kaim, Brookline, Mass. Assigned to Advanced Technology Materials Inc., Danbury.

Gas flow control assembly for use with fuel cell systems operating on fuels with varying fuel composition. Patent no. 8,389,136 issued to Ramakirshnan Venkataraman, New Milford; George Berntsen, Shelton; Glenn L. Carlson, Bethlehem; Fred C. Jahnke, Rye, N.Y.; and Anthony J. Leo, New Milford. Assigned to FuelCell Energy Inc., Danbury. Internet interface and integration language system and method. Patent no. 8,386,939 issued to Kris Stevens, Larchmont, N.Y.; David J. Shulman, Forest Hills, N.Y.; Kevin J. Lennon, White Plains, N.Y.; and Michael Baresich, Darien. Assigned to Cokinetic Systems Corp., Harrison, N.Y.

Distributed software project staffing and scheduling utilizing communication overhead costs. Patent no. 8,392,234 issued to Qian Ma, Beijing, China; Krishna Ratakonda, Yorktown Heights, N.Y.; Nianjun Zhou, Danbury. Assigned to International Business Machines Corp., Armonk, N.Y.

Network on a Grand Scale Thursday, March 21st

6 Chamber Regional Business Networking Expo The Regional Business Networking Expo brings together the Business Community from Stamford to Bridgeport. Over 100 businesses showcasing their products and services.

resaLe certificates Lions Condominium Association Inc., 126 Triangle St., Danbury, can be obtained from Whitney Management and Maintenance Co., P.O. Box 6313, Hamden 06517. Filed Feb. 19.

Complimentary Hors d’Oeuvres and Beverages Norwalk Community College (West Campus) 188 Richards Avenue, Norwalk 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. This is a free event. media partner

sponsored by

In cooperation with

Darien, Fairfield, Greater Norwalk, Stamford, Westport/Weston Chambers of Commerce and the Bridgeport Regional Business Council For more information visit www.StamfordChamber.com or (203) 359-4761

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 25


STOP

GROWLING ABOUT WHAT YOU MISSED!

Access to searchable archives Access to weekly sales leads generator Weekly Business Journals Our list of the week A listing in our online Biz Directory Access to our weekly records section Our annual Book of Business Lists

Visit westfaironline.com or contact

Audience Development Department | (914) 694-3600 26 Week of March 11, 2013 • FairField County Business Journal

Biz

WESTCHESTER COUNTY WESTCHESTER COUNTY

WCBJ WCBJ WC ®

INSID INSIDE DE

BUSINESS BUSINESS JOURNAL JOURNAL


Business ConneCtions State Budget

eventS

CBIA’s Annual Human Resources Conference

State Employee Benefits Better Than Most

F

acing ongoing budget struggles, Connecticut policymakers should leave no stone unturned when it comes to reining in state spending. A new state study suggests an area where they could take a closer look.

The Office of Legislative Research (OLR) released a study showing that several state employee benefits in Connecticut are easily more generous than those in most of our neighboring states. OLR compared Connecticut with the five other New England states and New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, in employee pension contribution rates, number of years used to determine pension benefits, whether overtime pay is included in pension benefit calculations, and prescription drug co-pays. In two of those categories, pension contributions and 90-day drug co-pays, state employees in Connecticut contribute the least. For the other categories, benefits in some states were roughly equivalent to Connecticut’s, but none were better. Connecticut state employees contribute from 0% to 2% of their salaries toward their pensions. In New York, certain tiers of employees (those with the most years of service) also contribute 0%, but the percentage bumps up to 3% and as much as 6% for the newest employees. Elsewhere, state employees contribute much more— for example, a range of 5% to 12% in Massachusetts; 7% in New Hampshire; and 6.25% in Pennsylvania. With Connecticut state employees contributing such a modest amount to their pensions, taxpayers have to bear much more of the burden of state employee retirement accounts than do residents in other states.

Sponsored by Murtha Cullina LLP Presented in partnership with SHRM CT HR Council

That’s a strain on our state budget and can impact funding for other critical programs and services. Connecticut has traditionally averaged a retiree’s three highest paid years when determining the retiree’s final average salary, but that recently changed to the more conservative five highest paid years for the most recently hired employees. Most other states also have moved to the five-year calculation, and Rhode Island has pushed it much farther, to 10 years. However, Connecticut and five other states also include overtime in the calculations, while three—Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Jersey—do not. All of the states provide a three-tiered system for prescription drug co-pays. For a 30-day supply, Connecticut state employees pay $5 for generics, $20 for brand-name, and $35 for more expensive brands. In most cases, employees in other states pay more. That changes with 90-day co-pays, where Connecticut state employees pay a $5/$10/$25 split. Most other states’ employees pay much more for their co-pays. In Rhode Island, for example, the split is $10/$40/$80. In Massachusetts, it’s $20/$50/$110. Policymakers need to address Connecticut’s fiscal challenges as aggressively as possible in order to keep the budget within our means to support it. That will not only restore fiscal responsibility but also boost business confidence, job creation, and economic strength. ➤ Read more at gov.cbia.com

G

et a fresh perspective on the most important topics in human resources. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from the experts and network with your peers. Keynote Presentation f How Changes in Washington Affect HR Breakout Sessions f Government Audits: Greeting the Agency Investigator (Lauren M. Filiberto and Michael C. Harrington, Attorneys, Murtha Cullina LLP) f Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) (Hugh F. Murray III, Attorney, Murtha Cullina LLP) f Total Rewards in the Healthcare Reform Era (Garry Straker, Principal Partner, CohnReznick Benefits Consultants and John J. Turgeon, CPA, HCS, Partner, CohnReznick) f Leaves of Absence (Louis B. Todisco and Stella Szantova Giordano, Attorneys, Murtha Cullina LLP) f NLRB’s New Presence in the Nonunion Environment (Hugh F. Murray III) f The Difficult Employee (Kenya Rutland, Principal, KJR Consulting) Date

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

Time

8:30 am–3:30 pm

Place Crowne Plaza, 100 Berlin Rd., Cromwell Cost

CBIA & CT SHRM members, $165 nonmembers, $205

➤ Register at cbia.com/events

ISSueS & PolIcIeS

Minimum Wage Hike, Labor History Bill Approved

T

he General Assembly’s Labor Committee approved a bill that would increase the minimum wage in Connecticut from $8.25 per hour to $9.75 per hour in two stages over the next two years, and then indexed starting in 2016. SB 387 was approved in a 7-4 vote along party lines, with Democrats supporting and Republicans opposing. It would increase the minimum wage from $8.25 to $9 per hour beginning Jan. 1, 2014, raise it again to

$9.75 per hour beginning Jan. 1, 2015, and link future raises to the consumer price index beginning Jan. 1, 2016. Also approved by the committee was HB 5713, which would require the state Board of Education to provide public schools in Connecticut with materials and curricula about labor history and law, including organized labor and the collective bargaining process. What should be the No. 1 priority of our education

system is closing Connecticut’s worst-in-the-nation achievement gap. Public schools already teach students about the labor movement’s contributions to American history, so HB 5713 is just an unnecessary diversion from focusing on providing our young people a solid foundation in core subjects. ➤ Read more at gov.cbia.com

FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL • Week of March 11, 2013 27


AW, C’MON: LET’S DEBATE SOCIAL MEDIA

SOCIAL MEDIA ADVOCATES TED MILLER AND KRIS RUBY ARE GOING TO BE STACKED UP AGAINST B.J. MENDELSON, AUTHOR OF “SOCIAL MEDIA IS BULLSHIT,” IN A NO-HOLDS-BARRED DEBATE.

MARCH

21

SOCIAL MEDIA EXPERT BRUCE NEWMAN AND MODERATOR ELIZABETH BRACKEN-THOMPSON WILL DUKE IT OUT THEMSELVES AS THEY CLOSE THE PROGRAM AND DECIDE THE WINNERS.

PRESENTED BY

THE WESTCHESTER COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL, FAIRFIELD COUNTY BUSINESS JOURNAL, HV BIZ AND WAG MAGAZINE.

610 Hartsdale Road, White Plains 11:30 a.m. – Meet, greet, lunch Noon – Program

Register now. Space is limited. Email Alissa Frey at afrey@westfairinc.com or go to westfaironline.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.