Corporate Sponsors

the Chronicle

New Members

THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, WINDHAM REGION 1010 Main Street, Willimantic, CT 06226 860.423.6389 www.windhamchamber.comServing the Communities of Andover • Ashford • Chaplin • Columbia • Coventry • Eastford • Hampton • Hebron • Lebanon • Mansfield • Scotland • Stafford • Tolland • Union • Willington • Windham

NEWS • FUN • PEOPLEW I N D H A M R E G I O N

Vol. 44 • No. 10 • October 2017

SAVE THE DATE!The Chamber is sponsoring a

“Celebrations” ExpoSaturday and Sunday, November 4 and 5

at the East Brook Mall in Mansfield

This event showcases all of the wonderful possibilities for anyone planning a wedding, quinceanera, anniversary or party of any kind. The event is free to attend with lots of prizes, gifts and samples.

For more information please visit WindhamChamber.com or call 860-423-6389.

If you are a business that a party planner should know about, become a vendor at the Celebrations Expo. Prices start at $100 for both days. The Chamber believes in SHOP LOCAL HIRE LOCAL so we hope to promote local businesses that offer products and services and the BEST customer service an in person local business can provide. Please join us for this exciting event.

on Tuesday, November 7, 2017 from 5:30-7:30 pm at the

UCONN Alumni Center in Storrs2384 Alumni Drive, Unit 3053, Storrs

Join us for our 11th annual

Seasonal SipsA fun food and spirit tasting event to highlight locally

produced or grown food and beverages.

This is the Chamber’s premier event with local vendors providing you tastes of their signature yumminess.Discover new restaurants, caterers, farms, bakers, candy makers, vineyards, breweries, and

other spirit makers without our region. You must register 24 hours in advance. We will do our best to accommodate walk-ins but we make no guarantees.

Buy your tickets now for $50 per person before they are sold out by visiting our website WindhamChamber.com or calling 860-423-6389.

If you are interested in being a vendor, please call us to register early, as there is a limited number of spaces.

Renee’s LLCRenee Kraus, Owner176 Palmer Rd.,Chaplin, CT 06235860-377-6401Renee43@earthlink.netHOME IMPROVEMENT: CLEANING

Radianz DentalDr. Adesh Chawla, DMD, Owner1212 Main St, Willimantic, CT 06226860-942-8777info@radianzdental.com,radianzdental.comHEALTH & WELLNESS: DENTISTS

Latin FlavorEdwin Maldonado, Owner81 Union St, Willimantic, CT 06226860-786-7750edwinm208@yahoo.comlatinflavorct.comDINING

NETcinityGary Mish, National Sales Manager860-705-4524gmish@netcinity.comnetcinity.comDIGITAL/IT MARKETING

THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE’S HEALTH COUNCIL WILL HOST a networking morning meeting for health and wellness professionals on

Thursday, October 19 at 8:00 am at Windham Hospital. This is an opportunity for health providers to meet each other, exchange referrals and learn

what services are being provided in the region. The group will also work on a legislative platform that has a goal of increasing the amount of funding to our region.

THERE IS NO COST TO ATTEND.

Please register on our website, WindhamChamber.com or call the Chamber at 860-423-6389.

Health Professionals Meeting

Page 2 THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC. • W I N D H A M R E G I O N OCTOBER 2017

AFLAC Stephen Kegler Independant Agent

Ballard Institute & Museum of Puppetry

Combined Insurance Company

Dunkin’ Donuts

Eastern CT State Univ. Foundation

Eastern CT Workforce Investment Board

Law Office of Marguerite T. Friar

Kahan, Kerensky & Capossela

KeyBank

Lebanon Life

McClintock Roofing, LLC

Neighbors of Mansfield magazine

Reservoir Financial, LLC

Sara Mussen Photography

Select Physical Therapy

Town of Columbia

Town of Willington

Vanderman Place

Special Events ...............................1

New Chamber Members ...........1

Renewing Chamber Members ........................................2

Save the Date ................................2

Chamber Leadership ..................2

September’s Women Entrepreneur Luncheon ............3

Chamber News & Events ...........3

New Membership Spotlight ........................................4

Mansfield/Storrs Businesses .....................................5

Member Business News .........6-8

In This Issue

OFFICERSChairman Michael Caron, American Title Ins.Vice Chairman Anthony Raggi, Farmer’s InsuranceSecretary Chris Novack, Chris the Gutter GuyTreasurer Ben Van Rheen, Logistics ConsultingImmediate Past Chairman Carl Sanders, Padgett Business Services

BOARD OF DIRECTORSJim Bellano, Town of WindhamRyan Rose, Eastern CT State UniversityChris Novack, Chris the Gutter GuyDemetrio Ricciardone, Savings Institute Bank and TrustBen Van Rheen, Logistics ConsultingCarl Sanders, Padgett Business Svcs.Lenny Patera, Hampton RemodelingDan McClintock, McClintock RoofingKen Caputo, Villari’s Martial ArtsMike Caron, First American Title Insurance CompanyRuss Dexter, RetireeAnthony Raggi, State Farm InsuranceRoger Nadeau, Immaculata Retreat House

ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERSSteven Coates, Windham HospitalJanice Putnam, Eastern Regional Tourism DistrictShawn Johnston, EversourceAngie Chirico, Webster BankAbigail Jewett, AT&TColin Rice ,WILIJack Hooker ,RetireeMatt Hart ,Town of MansfieldAndy Tierney ,Town of HebronDiane Manning ,United ServicesKristie Scott, Perception Programs

CHAIRMAN’S CIRCLERheo Brouillard ,Savings Institute Bank and TrustEd Dombrowski ,Eastern Region Tourism DistrictDavid Foster, Shaboo ProductionsKarla Fox, RetireePeter Rich, PBR InvestmentsCarlee Drummer, QVCCShawn Mawinney, Windham HospitalJoanne Todd, NE Family Federal Credit UnionKen DeLisa, Eastern CT State UniversityRichard Tardiff, EASTCONNPatricia Garcia, Windham Public Schools

Chamber LeadershipAdvisory Board Directors and Charirman’s Circle Members

Design and Layout the Chronicle | 860-423-8466 | www.thechronicle.com

Well-Established Local Roofing Company Now Hiring

McClintock Roofing, LLC has been in business for over 24 years and fo-cuses on all types of roofs including asphalt shingles, EPDM, standing seam metal roofs, cedar, and slate. We are looking for experienced roof-ers to join our team. Experience in one or more types of roofs we install and a valid driver’s license is required. Please send your resume to the address provided or feel free to call the office to fill out an application. Applications are taken M-F 9am-1pm.

McClintock Roofing, LLC1142 Windham RdSouth Windham, CT 06266Office: 860-423-7620

Experienced Roofers Wanted

POWERED BY TRINITY PROXIMITY

get any promotions, specials, coupons or events

we be having at any given time.

RENEWING CHAMBER MEMBERS

SAVE THE DATESChamber Alliance Network (CAN) Wednesday, October 4, 2017, 7:30am – 8:30am Questers’ Way

Women Entrepreneurs Luncheon Tuesday, October 10, 2017, 11:30am – 1:00pm Willimantic Brewing Company

Windham Mayoral Debate Wednesday, October 18, 2017, 6:00pm Windham High School

Chamber Alliance Network (CAN) Wednesday, October 18, 2017, 7:30am – 8:30am Questers’ Way

Start Your Own Business Wednesday, October 25, 2017 & Thursday, October 26, 2017, 5:30pm – 7:30pm Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Alliance Network (CAN) Wednesday, November 1, 2017, 7:30am – 8:30am Questers’ Way

Bridal, Party & Special Occasion Expo Saturday, November 4, 2017, 10:00am – 5:00pm Sunday, November 5, 2017, 12:00pm – 4:00pm East Brook Mall

Seasonal Sips Wednesday, November 7, 2017, 5:30pm – 7:30pm UConn Alumni

Women Entrepreneurs Luncheon Tuesday, November 14, 2017, 11:30am – 1:00pm Willimantic Brewing Company

Chamber Alliance Network (CAN) Wednesday, November 15, 2017, 7:30am – 8:30am Questers’ Way

Chamber Alliance Network (CAN) Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 7:30am – 8:30am Questers’ Way

Women Entrepreneurs Luncheon Tuesday, December 12, 2017, 11:30am – 1:00pm Willimantic Brewing Company

Holiday Celebration Wednesday, December 13, 2017, 5:00pm – 7:00pm Immaculata Retreat House

Chamber Alliance Network (CAN) Wednesday, December 20, 2017, 7:30am – 8:30am Questers’ Way

Page 3W I N D H A M R E G I O N • THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC.OCTOBER 2017

Chamber News and Events

Location: Willimantic Brewing Company 967 Main St. Willimantic

Cost: $20 member | $25 non-member – includes lunch*We will do our best to accommodate walk-ins but we make no guarantees.

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

This month’s luncheon discussion:

Networking & Review for 2018Register today at: www.windhamchamber.com

or call: (860) 423-6389

Advanced registration is required at www.windhanchamber.com* please note there will be an additional $5 fee for anyone that registers the day of the event

E N T R E P R E N E U R S LU N C H E O NTuesday, October 10, 2017

11:30am – 1:00pm

GENHEALTH.ORG

Services are provided on location with portable dental equipment or on our dental van.- Most insurances accepted- Eligibility screening and application services available for HUSKY, ACA and Sliding Fee Scale- Easy registration- New patients welcome

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DENTAL CARE RIGHT IN YOUR CHILD’S SCHOOL!

For more info or to register: 860.963.7917. X4404

Early detection is so important for women to stay healthy and live active lives. With the clinical expertise of Windham Hospital and Jefferson Radiology, Windham Hospital’s Centers for Women’s Health offer state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging that empowers women to take control of their health.

The Next Generation of Women’s Health

WillimanticWindham Hospital112 Mansfield Ave.

Mansfield Center7A Ledgebrook Dr.

Hebron21A Liberty Dr.

Exams

For an appointment call 855.494.4636

NOW 3 CONVENIENT LOCATIONS…

Chamber newsChamber Hosts Hebron Legislative BreakfastThe Chamber in partnership with the Town of Hebron, Economic De-velopment, hosted a legislative breakfast to review the past session and what businesses could expect during the budget crisis. Senator Cathy Osten and State Representative Robin Green discussed issues and how the house and senate approve the state budget.

Senator Osten with Town Manager, Andy Tierney

Kathmandu Kitchen & Bar33 Wilber Cross HighwayStorrs, CT860-477-1148

Nepalese and Indian Cuisine

Senator Osten

Discussing transportation issues. Rep. Robin Green

Head Driver WantedGates GMC Nissan in North Windham has an immediate opening for a full time Head Driver.

This is a full time position and is responsible for coordinating the drivers based on needs of the Sales and Service Departments. The position requires the candidate to be well organized and have the ability to work well with employees at all levels. This position requires some flexibility with your work schedule.

We offer a full benefits package including Medi-cal and Short Term Disability that is subsidized by the company. We also have a Paid Time Off program and 401k with company match.

This is a great job for a retired person.

Requirements:1. Clean driving record2. Positive attitude

If interested, please send resume or contact information to sroberge@columbiaford.com

Interviews are confidential.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Willimantic

872 Main Street$12.00 sq. ft. 852 to 9,000 available immedi-ately. Customize to your company needs.

Ideal for Professional Office or Educational Center, across from Post Office and Library.

For info call: Susan Barney Weichert REALTORS Four Corners Real Estate, LLC 860/428-7377

Page 4 THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC. • W I N D H A M R E G I O N OCTOBER 2017

New Member Spotlight

Latin Flavor81 Union StreetWillimantic860-786-7750

Dining

NETcinitynetcinity.comGary Mish 860-705-4524

Digital/Marketing

Radianz Dental1212 Main Street, Unit B Willimantic 860-942-8777

Dentistry for children and adults

Renee’s, LLC Cleaning Service860-576-8519

Home Improvement: Cleaning

Frappe

A refreshing frozen beverage made with all fresh ingredients. All our Frappes are made with ice and milk or juice as a base. We then add fruits and delicious treats to make the drink of your dreams!

Loko Fries

These fries are a new edition to the menu. Fresh handcut fries topped with.... ground beef, BBQ pulled pork, Mayo ketchup, sour cream, homemade guacamole, homemade pico de galllo, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, potato sticks and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Classic Foot Long Hot Dog

In the mood for a nice crisp dog on a toasted bun? Well we have Foot Longs you can top with your hearts desire. Toppings include ketchup, mustard, onions, potato sticks, cheese and chili. Feeling adventurous? Try out our Pulled Pork Chili Cheese Dog!

Here at Renee’s, LLC we are dedicated to providing you with exceptional customer service. We specialize in getting your projects done in a timely and professional manner. Whether you need your house cleaned once a week or once a month we are here to help you! Call today. Commercial, office and business services also!

Dentures, veneers, cleaning, whitening, sealants, restorations

Dr. Adesh Chawla graduated from Boston University with a Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree. He continues to participate in continuing dental education to keep himself updated of the recent developments. His training and experience has made him uniquely qualified to provide you with better diagnosis and treatment.

Knowing the pros and cons of different treatment options, you can be sure that you are making the right decision for yourself and your family and you will be getting successful results that fit your needs. He enjoys working with children, adults, geriatric populations alike. He specializes in restoring teeth, extractions, treating gum diseases, crowns and dentures. He enjoys spending time with his family and in spare time indulges in various sports and music.

Broadcast Your MessageOur clients have an easy to use portal that allows them to input any message they wish to communicate to passing traffic in front of their business. That message then begins broadcasting via our NETcinity ™ Bluetooth Beacon to passing mobile devices! Passing mobile devices will receive your custom no-tification in either their notifications section, or directly on their lock screen via our Community APP! Our system will contact potential customers and current customers alike with your messages via our Bluetooth Beacon.

Dr. Adesh Chawla

Page 5W I N D H A M R E G I O N • THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC.OCTOBER 2017

FroyoWorld1 Dog Ln.Storrs, CT860-477-1411

Moe’s Southwest Grill1 Dog LaneStorrs, CT860-477-1553

Mansfield Businesses

Frozen Yogurt Lounge

Dog Lane Café1 Dog LaneStorrs, CT860-429-4900

CaféSouthwest Grill

Grille 8633 Wilber Cross HighwayStorrs, CT860- 477-1135

Bar and Grill

Page 6 THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC. • W I N D H A M R E G I O N OCTOBER 2017

Member News

General surgeon Tamara T. My-ers, MD, FACS, recently joined the medical staff at Windham Hospital.Dr. Myers earned an undergradu-

ate degree in biochemistry from Mount Holyoke College, a medi-cal degree from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine, and completed her internship and residency in general surgery at Geisinger Medical Center in Pennsylvania. She also com-pleted a fellowship in colon and rectal surgery research at the Ochsner Clinic Foundation in New Orleans.Interested in complex abdominal wall

hernias as well as quality improve-ment in both general and hernia surgery, Dr. Myers is board-certi-fied by the American Board of Sur-gery and is on the faculty at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. She is a fellow in the

American College of Surgeons, and a member of the American Hernia Soci-ety, the American Medical Association, the Society of American Gastrointestinal Endoscopic Surgeons and Sigma Xi Re-search Society.Dr. Myers is seeing patients in offices at

5 Founders St., Suite 102, Willimantic.

Windham Hospital staff welcomes new surgeon

Dr. Tamara T. Myers

Healing Touch at Windham Hospital

Healing Touch therapist Paula Novak works with Phyllis Duke, a Putnam resident who had surgery at Windham Hospital recently, as part of her recovery. Windham now offers the Healing Touch Program free to surgical patients to enhance their recovery by reducing stress and anxiety before and after surgery. Healing Touch is a relaxing, nurturing energy ther-apy in which practitio-ners use a light or near-body touch to support patients’ natural ability to heal. Patients receive information from admit-ting to schedule a Heal-ing Touch session

FREE Taxes for Artists Workshop!Assets for Artists has teamed up with the Northwest CT Arts

Council to organize this FREE workshop for Connecticut artists. Sign up today.

Since 2008, nearly 700 artists have attended A4A workshops on taxes, marketing, media relations, financial wellness, business planning,

and more.

Taxes for Artists with Hannah ColeThursday, October 19 | 3:30-5pm | Winsted, CT

Hannah Cole is a tax expert who specializes in working with creative businesses and artists. A long-time working artist with a high-level exhibition history, Hannah has a unique vantage point for under-standing the financial challenges of freelancers and small creative businesses. In this workshop she will discuss the basic tax equation and tax issues specifically relevant to artists, followed by a Q & A. Hannah Cole is the founder of Sunlight Tax and an Enrolled Agent with the IRS.

Sign Up Today!Connecticut artists in all disciplines are welcome to register.If interested, please email Briana at bhalpin@massmoca.org with:

- Your name- Your home address- Your artist website

(It’s that simple!)

Registration Form

5�YES! I/we would like to support the kids in Natchaug Hospital’s programs!

$40 entry fee includes t-shirt and lunch

T I plan to run 5K!T I plan to walk 5K!T I will petition Champion Sponsors for my run!

(Champion Sponsor Donation form enclosed)T I cannot participate but please accept

my donation! $

First name: Last name: Address: City: State: Zip Code: Phone number: Date of birth: Email address: Emergency contact: Emergency contact phone number:

Race category (Check one) - $40 R RUNNING 5k R WALKING 5k

T-shirt size: R S R M R L R XL

Payment information (Check one)R Check (Made payable to Natchaug Hospital)R Credit Card - Credit card information R VISA R Mastercard R American Express R Discover Name on card: Card number: Expiration date: Security code:Billing address: City: State: Zip code:

Amount to be charged: $

By signing this form, you authorize Natchaug Hospital to charge your card for the amount listed above.

Signature: Date:

Please return completed form and payment to Natchaug Hospital, Attn: Fund Development, 189 Storrs Road, Mansfi eld, CT 06250

**For information on family discounts, contact ashley.laprade@hhchealth.org or 860.696.9872.

Saturday, October 14Nipmuck Trail – East Branch

Natchaug Hospital 5K

Fun Run& Nature Walk

For more information, contact ashley.laprade@hhchealth.org or 860.696.9872 or visit www.natchaug.org/trailrun.

8:30 am Registration at Natchaug Hospital(heats of participants will be transported to and from the start/finish line)

9 am 5K run9:30 am 5K walk

Cost: $40 Includes t-shirt and lunchAll proceeds support Natchaug Hospital’s clients and programs

Registration Deadline:Monday, September 22, 2017

Things to know:T All donations stay local to

Natchaug Hospital and its programsT No donation goes towards wages

or salariesT All event proceeds benefit clients at

Natchaug programs and services and are tax-deductible

Saturday, October 14Nipmuck Trail – East Branch

Natchaug Hospital 5K

Fun Run& Nature Walk

For more information, contact ashley.laprade@hhchealth.org or 860.696.9872 or visit www.natchaug.org/trailrun.

New Business Tax Compliance Tax Consulting & Preparation

Financial Reporting Payroll Service

ACCEPTING NEW PERSONAL TAX RETURN CLIENTS

CARL SANDERS ▪ OWNER

(860) 455-8067 • c_sanders@smallbizpros.com

387-F Tuckie Road, North Windham, CT 06256

Seamless Gutters • Commercial & Residential • Cleaning • Repair

Chris Novack 860-428-5506 E-mail: chris@gutterguysct.com

FREE Estimates Fully Insured

LIC# HIC-0630038

www.gutterguysct.com

Page 7W I N D H A M R E G I O N • THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC.OCTOBER 2017

Member News

Windham Hospital’s leadership changesSeptember 11, 2017 By Hartford HealthCare

Hartford HealthCare (HHC) Monday announced executive leader-ship changes that include new presidents in each of its regions, includ-ing Backus and Windham hospitals, Hartford Hospital, the Hospital of Central Connecticut and MidState Medical Center. The changes will take effect Oct. 1, the start of the health system’s fiscal year.Bimal Patel will succeed Markowitz as President of the Hartford Re-

gion. Patel is now President of HHC’s East Region, which includes Backus and Windham hospitals.

Patel will be succeeded at Backus and Windham hospitals by Donna Handley, the HHC Cancer Institute’s Vice President of Operations. Her replacement will be an-nounced in the near future.The changes are possible because of “the solid foundation set by our current lead-

ers,” Hartford HealthCare Chief Executive Officer Elliot Joseph and HHC President and Chief Operating Officer Jeffrey A. Flaks wrote in a letter to staff. The transitions represent the next evolution in the health system’s development, and celebrate the organization’s depth of internal talent.“Four years ago HHC created a regional structure, and since then we have been

on a path to improve the quality and coordination of care our patients receive,” the letter said. “Our Institute model, just an early idea at the time, is now a driver of care delivery, attracting world-class clinical leaders and expanding access to quality care.“Today, more than ever, our regions are called upon to drive staff engagement and

customer service, so Hartford HealthCare is the best place to work, practice and re-ceive care. This requires greater partnerships with physicians, deeper integration with our Institutes, and unwavering attention to core facilities operations.”Patel has a strong awareness of the Hartford Region and Hartford Hospital, thanks

to his many accomplishments as an operations executive there, starting in 2009. His track record has continued over the past two years as HHC East Region president, as he has partnered with physicians to expand service offerings while maintaining a strong operational focus and achieving exceptional results.In the East Region, Handley will build on her experience of leading HHC’s first sys-

tem-wide clinical infrastructure, the HHC Cancer Institute, helping to achieve a unique alliance with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and delivering on our promise to provide a single standard of excellence for patients. She has an exceptionally keen ability to build and maintain relationships with physicians, staff and communities.“We feel blessed to have such a reservoir of leadership to call upon as our organiza-

tion matures and advances toward our vision,” Joseph and Flaks added.

UNITED WAY of CENTRAL and NORTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT

2017 Community Campaign Chairs AnnouncedTri-Chairs to lead fundraising efforts for 40-town region

Hartford, Conn. (September 5, 2017) — For the second time in its history, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut is pleased to announce Tri-Chairs for its annual United Way Community Campaign with a fundraising goal of $20.6 mil-lion. Diane Nadeau, president and CEO, The Chamber of Commerce, Windham Region;

Tim Stewart, president, Greater New Britain Chamber of Commerce; and, Oz Grieb-el, president and CEO, MetroHartford Alliance, have been selected to lead Connect-icut’s largest health and human service campaign. “I’m delighted we have not one, not two, but three individuals who have stepped

up to lead the charge to help raise dollars in support of health and human services provided by our nonprofit community,” said Paula S. Gilberto, president and CEO, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. “Each is a leader in his or her own region, knowing firsthand the value of community service and community leadership.”“I’m honored to lead this year’s United Way Community Campaign in the Windham

region,” said Nadeau. “With the community’s support, more children and youth will succeed in school and more families will achieve financial security, lead healthier lives and have access to critical basic needs services.”“I look forward to continuing Greater New Britain and Berlin’s long-standing partner-

ship with United Way,” said Stewart. “United Way cares about what you and I care about, and they’re going to take a stand for it right along with us.”“We have such a talented and dedicated business community in the Greater Hart-

ford Region, which makes me all the more proud to serve as Tri-Chair of this year’s United Way Community Campaign,” said Griebel. “United Way’s campaign theme this year is ‘Finding the Best Way’ and Diane, Tim and I intend to do just that to raise the dollars needed by our nonprofit partners.”United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut’s Community Campaign of-

fers individuals an opportunity to give to qualified nonprofit agencies. Contributions directed specifically to United Way are used to support local programs, services and initiatives that focus on preparing children and youth for academic success, con-necting people with good jobs, access to health services, and providing immediate, emergency assistance such as food and shelter.The following cabinet members will provide the Tri-Chairs leadership and guidance

and act as brand stewards across the diverse business sectors. •Jamey Bell, Executive Director, Greater Hartford Legal Aid•Elliot Ginsberg, President and Chief Executive Officer, Connecticut Center for

Advanced Technology•Gary Havican, Vice President, Operations, Hartford Healthcare•Jason Howey, President, OKAY Industries•Steve Litchfield, Regional Vice President for Greater Hartford, TD Bank•Nate Quesnel, Superintendent, East Hartford Public Schools•Nancy Sarra, Superintendent, Consolidated School District of New BritainIn addition to being the largest annual health and human services fundraising ef-

fort in the state, the Community Campaign is the second largest of its kind in New England. For more information, visit unitedwayinc.org.

About United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut:United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut brings together people and resources com-mitted to the well-being of children and families in our community, where opportunities are avail-able for every child to succeed in school and for every family to achieve financial security. For more information, visit unitedwayinc.org.

Media Contact: Elyssa M. Millspaugh | United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut emillspaugh@unitedwayinc.org | 860.493.1119

W I N D H A M T H E AT R E G U I L D

Winner of the 2017 Hartford Readers’ Poll for Best Community Theatre

Each year the Hartford Courant polls their readers for the Best of Hartford in scores of categories covering bars, restaurants, shopping, health, entertainment and more. Thousands of people voted and this year, the Windham Theatre Guild was voted the Best Community Theatre by Hartford readers. Happy representatives from the Guild went to Hartford to accept the award…Jill Goodwin, Mark Lowe, Jim York, Larry Goodwin, Tricia Hul and Jill Luberto.Since 1985, this nonprofit has been producing quality community theater, with six

annual main stage productions that range from comedies to dramadies, from murder mysteries to musicals, drawing an average of 6,000 people to its over 60 yearly perfor-mances. Check out the guild’s current season at www.windhamtheatreguild.org”?

Donna Handley

In Southern New England, Walktober is the most wonderful time of the year.Brought to you by The Last Green Valley, Inc. (TLGV),

the 27th year of Walktober offers an array of adven-tures, with more than 220 unique experiences and more than 250 opportunities to enjoy autumn in the region. The 24-page Walktober brochure is free and details the guided walks, hikes, bike rides, paddles, tastes and events featured during Walktober. The Walktober brochure also includes contests and chal-lenges for TLGV members.

To receive your own brochure: email mail@tlgv.org; call 860-774-3300; download a PDF from the website www.thelastgreenvalley.org; or get one at any town hall, library or information kiosk within the region. All updates, additions and cancellations will be posted on the Walktober page on TLGV’s website and Face-book page. Please check them often.In 2016, more than 64,000 participants enjoyed

Walktober, providing a major economic boost to the region. The Walktober brochure makes it easy to plan a month of adventures.

The Last Green Valley is a National Heritage Cor-ridor – the last stretch of dark night sky in the coastal sprawl between Boston and Washington, D.C. The Last Green Valley, Inc. works for you in the National Heritage Corridor. We help you to care for it, enjoy it and pass it on.

Plan Your Walktober Adventures Now

Page 8 THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, INC. • W I N D H A M R E G I O N OCTOBER 2017

Member News

Join us for the 7th Annual Panera Bread SPOOK-A-THON, a Halloween party for all ages on Saturday, Octo-ber 28th from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Dodd Stadium on 14 Stott Avenue in Norwich. Everyone is invited to “Dress Up and Scare Cancer” and walk in masquerade or dance to the music. This year’s SPOOK-A-THON is sure to be a treat for the whole fam-ily! Bagels, pastries and coffee will be provided at the SPOOK-A-THON by Panera Bread during the morn-

ing check-in from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

This family-friendly Hallow-een-themed event features a costume parade, safe trick-or-treating, the famous Haunt-ed Locker Room, face and pumpkin painting, a photo booth, balloon art/magic, a bouncy house, and Panera cookie decorating.

If you enjoy competition, the win-ners of the pie-eating contests will receive exciting prizes. There will be

a special performance from the Griswold High School Cheerleading Wolverines before the Costume Stadium Walk and more prizes for

costume contest winners, including Best Adult Costume, Kid Costume and Doggie Costume, Team Costume, Family Costume and more. Hungry? Come early for a complimentary Panera Breakfast 10am-11am, and Food Trucks will be on site selling a variety of lunch offerings.

A $5 donation (per person) is re-quested. Pre-register online or pay at the gate. All funds raised will benefit local families battling cancer served by the Backus Hospital Cancer Cen-ter and will help support the Backus Campership Program at Channel 3 Kids Camp. Those registered by Oc-tober 21 will automatically be entered to win an Apple iPad. Vendor space and sponsorship opportunities are available! Visit http://events.even-tease.com/spookathon/#registration

7th Annual to Once Again Benefit

Children with CancerSpook-A-Thon

A Diverse Workforce = Innovative WorkplacesFriday, October 6 – Waterbury: Naugatuck Valley Community CollegeFriday, October 13 – Winsted: Northwestern Connecticut CollegeFriday, October 20 – Norwich: Three Rivers Community CollegeFriday, October 27 – Manchester: Manchester Community CollegeTuesday, October 31 – New Haven: Gateway Community College

Learn what Connecticut can offer to help your business gain that com-petitive edge! Meet a broad range of qualified candidates at the career fair and receive information on recruitment and training support, hiring incentives, assistive technology, and other helpful resources.

Don’t Miss Out on this Hiring Opportunity!www.CTJobfairs.com

The Chamber of Commerce and the Chronicle will be co-hosting a mayoral debate for the three candidates for Windham’s Mayor. The event will be held at 6:00 pm at the Windham High School on Wednesday, October 18. The event is free. For more information please contact the Chamber at 860-423-6389.

Left to right: Anita Sebestyen, Jean de Smet, Victor Funderburk

Nightmare on Main: Witches in History and Fable Discover the true history of witches

and the Connecticut Witch Trials in a haunted house style tour

Arrive between 7 and 9:30 $10 per person

Not recommended for young children, refreshments available, rain or shine

WITCHES INVADE WILLIMANTIC MUSEUM

Four Evening Tours and a 7 Week Exhibit and Programs

Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main Street, Willimantic860-456-2178 millmuseum.org

October 7, 8, 13 and 14

“START YOUR OWN BUSINESS COURSE”

The two day workshop will be held each evening from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm at the Chamber located at 1010 Main Street, Willimantic. The cost of the program is $10 per person and you can register at WindhamChamber.com or by calling the office. The program includes dinner, beverages, im-portant documents and information to help new businesses or people considering starting one.

Topics will include: what kind of business should you open, taxes and bookkeeping, marketing, state programs to help small businesses, how to hire and fire employees, and other HR information.

For more information call the Chamber at 860-423-6389.

THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WILL HOST ITS ANNUAL

“START YOUR OWN BUSINESS COURSE” sponsored by Savings Institute Bank & Trust Company

Wednesday, October 25 & Thursday, October 26

MBPAThe Mansfield Business & Professionals Association

will host its quarterly meeting on

Wednesday, October 25 at 8:00 am at the offices of the Mansfield Downtown Partnership,

23 Royce Circle, Storrs.

The meeting will review economic development projects throughout Mansfield with an update on the downtown

project. The event is free to attend.

For more information please call the Chamber at

860-423-6389.

The National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation have partnered with the Connecticut Office of the Arts to support 2018 Poetry Out Loud, a FREE high school program which encourages the nation’s youth to learn about great po-etry through memorization and recitation. This dynamic program helps high school students master public speaking skills, build self-confidence, learn about their lit-erary heritage, and compete for more than $100,000 in awards.

Each winner at the state level will receive:

· A $200 cash prize and an all-expense paid trip to Washington DC· A $500 cash stipend for their school to purchase poetry materials· An opportunity to compete at the 2018 National Finals for the title of National Champion and a $20,000 prize

How do I get my students involved?In order to compete, schools must register by contacting Adriane Jefferson!

For more information, visit www.poetryoutloud.org!

2018