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If you are interested in joining any council or committee, please contact the Staff Liaison or call the Chamber at (860)347-6924. Affordable Housing Committee Committee Activities Staff Liaison: The primary mission of the newly formed Affordable Housing Committee is to make sure that the elected and appointed officials who represent Connecticut residents understand that there is a real need for more affordable housing in our state. This issue is of critical importance to Connecticut businesses it and must receive the attention it deserves from the federal, state and local governments. The committee will publicly support affordable housing friendly legislation and aims to work with lawmakers at all levels of government to make sure this issue is front and center. It is very important that the Chamber membership, and the Connecticut business community as a whole, is well informed and understands the importance of this issue. The Chamber by nature is a business organization and the committee will consistently be a staunch supporter of members that are involved in affordable housing such as developers, real estate agents, banks, lenders, architects and engineers. The Affordable Housing Committee meets on the fourth Friday of each month at 11:30 A.M. in the Chamber conference room. Arrigoni Bridge Committee Committee Activities Staff Liaison: The Arrigoni Bridge Committee was established to provide a more formal communication channel between local elected officials, the Department of Transportation and the business community. Meetings have focused on safety issues and how to address situations where an accident has occurred. Establishing a traffic alert system for the public, the dissemination of alternative routes and improving responses have been some of the positive results of this committee. Automotive Council Committee Activities Chairman: Michael Turner Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Quarterly The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce began an Automotive Council in 1987 to promote good business and trade among the automotive industry in Middlesex County. Over the past 15 years, the council has worked hard to bring hot issues and current trends to the table for discussion and resolution. The Council has addressed many issues that have helped local businesses in this very important business cluster. Through the years, the chamber and council have maintained a friendship with the Department of Motor Vehicles, which allows our members a great avenue to use when questions or problems arise. Michael Turner, Portland Automotive, has been an outstanding leader of this council and instrumental in its success. back to top Business/Education Advisory Council Committee Activities Co-Chairman: Lorenzo Marshall and Tom Serra Staff Liaison: Meeting Times: First Tuesday of every month The Middlesex Chamber of Commerce Business/Education Advisory Council facilitates the development of partnerships between county schools and the business community. The main goal is to enrich the educational process and prepare a quality workforce through member business-sponsored teacher academies and partnerships. back to top Creative Juice Committee Activities Staff Liaison: Creative Juice is a council that brings together interested artists, arts organizations and related businesses within the Chamber to sustain and expand the creative economy of the region. It provides advocacy on the impact of the arts, stimulates alliances with the greater business community and builds capacity of our members through professional development programs.
Distinguished Citizens Committee Committee Activities Chair: Vincent Amato Staff Liaison: Each year the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce presents the Distinguished Citizen Award to one or more individuals who "have served as an inspiration to others and is recognized by the Middlesex community as having unselfishly given his or her time and talent to produce a lasting benefit to the area." The committee which consists of past distinguished citizens makes its selection from a list of nominees made by Chamber members. back to top Environment, Land Use & Energy Committee Committee Activities Co-Chairs: Andrew Lord and George Smilas Staff Liaison: Meeting Times: First Wednesday of each month The Chamber has responded to its membership by adding Energy as one of its Divisions by incorporating it into the Environment and Land Use Committee. The formal name change occurred in January and reflects the Committee's focus on Energy since last fall. The mission of the Chamber's Environment, Land Use and Energy Committee is to help create more successful processes and decisions through the education of the Chamber's members. Last September, the Chamber hosted representatives from Broadwater, Inc to listen to their proposal to build a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal in Long Island Sound and followed that up with a meeting in November with a representative from Save Our Sound. This interest in Energy and the impact rising costs of electricity are having on our member business, the Committee led by Co-Chairmen Bob Fusari, Sr. and David Platt, collaborated with the Chamber's Legislative Committee in conducting a forum on Energy in April. Turnout was excellent as the panel gave members an opportunity to learn about the latest developments in the Energy debate. In addition, the committee has been actively following various land use proposals throughout Middlesex County, which would affect the business community. As always, we will remain vigilant in preserving the interests of business, while maintaining a healthy environment. back to top Expo Committee Committee Activities Co-Chairs: Brian Armet and Pamela Luchka Staff Liaison: Meeting Times: After Member Breakfast Meetings, April-October The Expo Committee meets monthly year round to plan one of Middlesex County's premier events. The Expo provides an opportunity for people in the community to join together with family and friends in discovering the goods and services offered by over 119 businesses throughout Middlesex County. back to top Golf Tournament Committee Committee Activities Chair: Bob Briggs Staff Liaison: Meeting Times: Monthly from December to April. The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament is the premier golf outing of the County. Now in its 22nd year, the tournament continues to be a sell out! The success of this event is due in part to the tremendous golf committee, but mostly to the Chairman, Bob Briggs who's steadfast commitment to the tournament and the chamber is unsurpassed. The Golf Tournament proceeds support many educational programs and the Lorraine C. McHugh scholarship given annually at our Annual Dinner. back to top Health Care Council Committee Activities Chair: Jim Cama Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Monthly The council's mission is to develop lines of communication between the business and health care community. The dialogue is designed to gain a better understanding of the different constituency groups and in the process, the council will explore solutions to particular issues resulting in a more efficient, high quality and cost effective health care system. Through out the past several years, the council has created several exciting programs and initiatives. With the help of many dedicated business and health care representatives under the leadership of Jim Cama, the council strives to bring the tough issues to the table for discussion. Recently the council created three sub-committees to focus on specific areas of health care. The Quality and Measurements sub-committee has been active working with Qualidigm and other consultants to provide analytical support as it pertains to the quality and cost of care in Middlesex County. The Education sub-committee has been busy working on the flu shot initiative that last year immunized over 400 employees in and around Middlesex County. And finally, our Legislative sub-committee has worked closely with the chamber's legislative council to successfully stem the tide of additional coverage mandates this year. Looking ahead, there are many new ideas and issues that the council will be focusing on including: Tort Reform, consumer driven health care products, rising prescription costs, and of course increasing health care costs. back to top Holiday On Main Street Committee Committee Activities Chairmen: Al Santostefano and Rich Greco Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Monthly from August -December Holiday On Main Street is a Downtown Middletown event that began in 1985 when the trees on Main Street were decorated with white lights and there were some events on the Saturdays between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Over the years, this event has grown to include the Lighting of the Tree on the South Green, followed by a Parade to the Middlesex Chamber to light the tree on the roof on Friday evening, the day after Thanksgiving, with many events throughout the day and night; and continues on four Saturdays before Christmas. There are Free Hayrides and Santa is at every event, as well as Free Rides at various times on the Fun Train and the Horse & Carriage. Main Street is decorated with pre-lit wreaths and garlands hung across the street for a festive atmosphere that can be enjoyed day and night! Click on "Recent News" for a complete listing of dates, times and events for Holiday On Main Street. back to top Hotel & Restaurant Council Committee Activities Chair: Glenna Grelak Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Monthly This council meets monthly to discuss current legislative and economic issues that affect the industry. Guest speakers include representatives from tourism, area hotels, restaurants and area attractions. back to top Insurance Committee Committee Activities Chair: Kelly Smith Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Quarterly The Insurance Committee has recently met to address many issues that affect the rising costs of health insurance. The Committee took action against some pending legislation that could have widespread negative effects on all businesses. In addition to taking a stance against certain legislation, the group seeks to be an informational support group for the Chamber's member agents. By providing resources that cover many of the new, innovative plans, the Insurance Committee looks forward to a lasting contribution to the agent community. back to top Legislative Committee Committee Activities Co-Chairs: Anthony Assante and Richard Carella Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Meets the 4th Friday of each month The Legislative Committee was extremely active during this past session, as we worked to thwart a host of anti-business measures that would have significantly increased the cost of doing business in Connecticut. Led by Co-Chairmen Anthony Assante and Richard Carella, the Legislative Committee met with our county delegation on several occasions during the session, which gave us the opportunity to voice our concerns. Through the combined efforts of the Governor's Office, state agencies, legislative leaders and the business community, we have worked aggressively to turn back a number of bills that would have been harmful to the business climate in Connecticut. The committee continues to work on issues as it awaits the beginning of the 2008 session. It is imperative for businesses like our chamber members to continue speaking up against pejorative bills and taxes that would weaken Connecticut's viability as a business friendly state. back to top Manufacturer's Council Committee Activities Chair: Kenneth MacCormac Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Every Other Month The Council seeks to support area Manufacturers by organizing educational programs that are designed to help Manufacturers’ help each other. Members take turns hosting meetings in which they highlight an effective aspect of their operation through an interactive presentation and a tour of their facility. Past programs have focused on energy conservation, federal asbestos litigation reform, software applications, health care costs, shipping and receiving in the age of terrorism, competition with Asian manufacturers and the principles of lean enterprise. The Chamber has always been a strong supporter of Manufacturing in Middlesex County and this council continues that tradition. The Manufacturers’ Council meets every other month; please check back with the website for meeting times and locations. back to top Micro Business Council Committee Activities Chair: Marc Gallagher Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Meets the third Tuesday of each month The new Micro-Business Council, formerly the Home-Based Business Council, was introduced in September 2006. Its mission is to support micro-businesses (any type business with 5 or less employees) by promoting the sharing of information through social and professional interaction. Led by Chairperson Marc Gallagher, the Council will focus in on wide range of topics including business startup, taxes, insurance, marketing, local planning and zoning, management techniques and human resources, just to name a few. The Council welcomes new members to share their successes and challenges of operating a micro-business in today’s competitive climate. back to top Middletown Mentor Program Committee Activities Coordinator: Hal Kaplan - (860)346-3635 Chair: Cheryl Kraft Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Meets the 4th Wednesday of each month The Middletown Mentor Program is a successful School-Business partnership that matches adult volunteers in the community with students in grades 2-8 who are in need of a role model and trusted friend. The Program, now six years in existence, has expanded to include all eight Middletown elementary schools, as well as Keigwin Annex and Woodrow Wilson Middle Schools. Local business people, as well as retired individuals, are encouraged to become involved. All mentors are screened and participate in a tailored, yet concise training program. If you are interested in becoming a mentor, or if you would like more information on the Middletown Mentor Program, please contact Hal Kaplan or Jenniefer De Kine. back to top Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council (MCSAAC) Executive Director: Committee Activities The Middlesex County Substance Abuse Action Council is a public / private partnership that was established in 1991 through the sponsorship of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. Its purpose is to reduce the incidence of alcohol and other drug abuse in the fifteen towns of Middlesex County by acting as a catalyst, supporting existing providers and bringing new necessary resources into the region. MCSAAC carries out research, planning, coordinating, grant writing and town-by- town consulting. People from each community in Middlesex County take part in MCSAAC. They include top officials, police chiefs, school superintendents, legislators, community leaders, social and youth service workers, representatives of businesses, religious leaders, recovering substance abusers and concerned citizens. MCSAAC receives funding from the Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, the office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the office of National Drug Control Policy and other public, private and municipal resources. You may reach MCSAAC by calling (860) 347-5959 or email back to top Nominating Committee Committee Activities Chair: Larry Marino Staff Liaison: The Nominating Committee reviews and recommends nominations for officers of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce and its Board of Directors. Members of the committee are past chairman of the chamber. back to top November Night Committee Committee Activities Co-Coordinators: Mary Ann Lentz and Kathlyn A. Talevi Staff Liaison: Joan Wood Meeting Time: Monthly from May until November Night November Night is an annual dinner / dance affair for all members of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce. This event is strictly social and serves as a kick off to the Holiday season. back to top Prevention Committee Committee Activities Chair: Harry Burr Staff Liaison: Kate Antonucci Meeting Time: Meets the third Tuesday of each month The Chamber's Prevention Committee continues to build on past efforts to combat substance abuse in the workplace. The CT Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services awarded a grant to the Chamber to provide services for individual transitioning from treatment into the workforce. The Committee, chaired by Harry Burr, also assists in marketing the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for the benefit of our members. This program now covers more than 3,000 employees and works with Solutions EAP and Middlesex Hospital to provide access to counseling, referral and treatment resources for employees on a multitude of issues including bereavement, depression and anger management. In addition to this, the committee collaborated with Velandy Manohar, MD, in the preparation and presentation of a seminar last year entitled, Diagnosis and Intervention for Alcohol Use Disorders at Grand Rounds in Middlesex Hospital. This was well received and has been repeated for the benefit of the Family Practice residents. Thus, the committee continues to address the unique challenges presented by substance abuse in the workplace. back to top Real Estate Council Committee Activities Chair: Marie Coughlin Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Meets the 1st Thursday of each month The newly formed Real Estate Council under the leadership of Mary Ellen Klinck, has created an atmosphere for local realtors to come together for networking, sharing of ideas, and helping one another improve business and educational opportunities. The council consists of 15 members throughout the country who meet monthly. Some main objectives include: Continuing education for real estate renewal licenses, promotion of real estate, industry, legislation and referrals to the chamber's Legislative Committee. The Council also plans to establish an equitable way to refer leads to realtors in the chamber. back to top Revitalization Commission Committee Activities Chair: Philip Miller Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Quarterly Led by First Selectman of Essex, Philip Miller, the Revitalization Commission continues to address regional economic development issues and focuses on the revitalization of manufacturing and commercial districts of Middlesex County. The Revolving Loan Fund is available through the Revitalization Commission and is designed to encourage business growth that results in the retention or creation of jobs in the region. The original action plan has recently been revised as well as all electronic loan application documents to make for an easier and more efficient process. As the Commission remains active within the county, the group looks forward to addressing specific issues and meeting certain goals. Please click on our Recent News above for loan information. back to top Scholarship Committee Committee Activities Chair: Tony Nericcio Staff Liaison: and The Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce administered over $10,000 in scholarship money awarded to deserving students who must meet the criteria set forth by the scholarship fund. The Harry H.S. Phillips, Jr. Scholarship is funded by Newfield Publications/Weekly Reader Corporation. The Raymond E. Baldwin Scholarship is funded by the Middlesex Mutual Assurance Company. The Lorraine McHugh Scholarship is funded by the Business/Industry Foundation of Middlesex County Inc. Applications are sent to all Middlesex County schools. The Middlesex County Manufacturers Association Scholarships are funded by the Manufacturers Association. Applications are distributed to members of the Manufacturers Council. back to top Sports Events & Conventions Committee Committee Activities Co-Chairs: George S. Cocores and Phil Cacciola Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Meets the 1st Tuesday of each month at 8:00 A.M. at the Courtyard By Marriott in Cromwell. The Sports Events & Conventions Committee works to support and promote the major sporting events in Middlesex County, such as the Travelers Championship (formerly the Greater Hartford Open), American Legion World Series and the Head of the Connecticut Regatta.
The Committee also highlights the athletic successes and achievements of Middlesex County’s resident colleges, universities and high schools and works with local hotels to make sure that visiting fans are properly accommodated. Members include representatives from the Middletown Hall of Fame, the print and electronic media, local athletic directors, hotel executives and everyday businesses people. "Taste of Downtown" Business After Work Auction Committee Committee Activities Chair: Al Santostefano Staff Liaison: For 19 years an auction has been held to raise funds for the Holiday On Main Street Program and is held during Business After Work in the springtime. There is no fee to attend this exciting event (a benefit of membership). A highlight of the event is the "Taste of Downtown" chaired by Sal Nesci. Attendees can sample food from downtown restaurants while networking with other business members. Central Business Bureau members and others donate over 200 items for the live Auction, as well as a Silent Auction, Teacup Auction and a Raffle. This event has an attendance of 300 +. back to top Technology Committee Committee Activities Chair: Nancy AF Waterman Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Every other month Under the leadership of Nancy Waterman, the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce Technology Committee strives to keep Middlesex County in the forefront of technological advances. In recent years the technology committee worked with AT&T to deliver high speed internet access to our area. The committee has also worked to bring "WIFI" to downtown Middletown and will be working on other projects in the future that will be technologically beneficial to the business community of Middlesex County. back to top Transportation Council Committee Activities Co-Chairs: Tom Cheeseman and Gerry Dyar Staff Liaison: Brian O'Connor Meeting Time: Every other month, Third Thursday Success in our area and the State is contingent upon the ability to move people, goods and raw materials seamlessly through our transportation network. Under the leadership of Co-Chairmen Tom Cheeseman and Gerry Dyar, the Chamber merged the Rail Council and the Transportation Council into one Council. Recognizing the importance of focusing its efforts collectively, the integration of the two entities will allow us to more effectively advocate for transportation issues that promote economic development in Middlesex County. Building upon the foundation of previous efforts, the Chamber continues to focus its attention on the Route 9 traffic light proposals, the State Transportation Strategy Board initiatives, freight and tourism rail. Our efforts have helped maintain a dialogue with the State Department of Transportation and have provided an opportunity to have a positive impact on the decision-makers in local, State and Federal Government. Priorities of the Council include concentrating on the interrelation of all modes of transportation and the improvements necessary to maintain and improve our infrastructure so that our economy will continue to prosper. As the Council grows, the Chamber will have an even greater voice in the decisions that are made in Middlesex County and the State. back to top Young Professionals' Alliance Committee Activities Co-Chairs: Kelly Thierrian and David Tycz Staff Liaison: Meeting Time: Monthly The Middlesex County Young Professionals’ Alliance is a personal and professional development program of the Middlesex County Chamber of Commerce for individuals age 45 and under designed to allow young business people to interact socially, exchange ideas, share common interests, and gain an insider’s view of the regional business scene. The goal of the Alliance is to help young professionals form valuable connections that will serve as the foundation on which they can build their careers, friendships, and community. back to top |
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393 Main Street, Middletown, CT 06457
Phone: (860) 347-6924 |
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