The Middletown Press (Middletown, CT)
Chamber welcomes Wonder Paws to Haddam
MIDDLETOWN — As we approach the end of February and look ahead to spring, optimism abounds in Middlesex County as vaccine administration continues, COVID positivity rates and hospitalizations continue to fall, and our beloved state looks to brighter days ahead.
Our chamber is very encouraged by the recent news released by Gov. Ned Lamont that as of March 19, should the trend lines continue to cooperate, the indoor event capacity will increase to 50 percent of the venue capacity — capped at 100 — and outdoor events will increase from 50 to 200 people.
This is being very wellreceived by the many event venues in our region, and others that support the event industry, such as caterers, businesses that rent tents and stages, entertainers, DJs and cleaning companies. All of these sectors have been severely impacted by the pandemic.
This is just one of the many reasons why I continue to be very bullish on Middlesex County and Connecticut. I am also very proud of my chamber team for their commitment to be a resource to not only the business community, but to the community at large. We will continue these efforts until the pandemic is part of history, and will work extra hard to support an economic comeback in Middlesex County and throughout the state.
Before previewing some important events and activities scheduled ahead, I’d like to quickly review last week, which was a sprint from start to finish.
Our Legislative Committee kicked off its annual Legislative Leadership Series Tuesday with a very well-executed event that featured Speaker of the House Matt Ritter, who did a great job with his remarks and participated in a productive and informative question-and-answer session that was moderated by our Legislative Co-Chairs, Rich Carella and Maureen Westbrook.
Rich’s firm, Updike, Kelly & Spellacy, also sponsored the event, which we appreciate very much.
I would like to once again thank the speaker for joining us during this critical period, and Rich and Maureen for their continued support and leadership.
Our Board of Directors held its February meeting, which featured a visit from DECD Commissioner David Lehman, Thursday. Commissioner Lehman provided an update from his position as the chief economic development official in the state, and he did a great job on everything from sector rules to the state of manufacturing, tax policy and tourism, and much more.
I appreciate his willingness to visit with our group, and thank him for his leadership throughout this crisis.
Finally, last week was Taste of Middlesex County throughout our region. Taste of Middlesex County was a way for us to help drive critically needed traffic to our participating restaurants, El Pulpo & Tapas Bar, Eli Cannons Tap Room, Relish 670 and Spread Cheese Co. in Middletown, Fire at the Ridge & Ridgeside Tavern and 1741 Pub & Grill in Middlefield, Horseshoe Tavern in Durham, Scotch Plains Tavern in Essex, and Water’s Edge Resort & Spa in Westbrook.
We wish them all well, and will continue to support them moving forward. I would be remiss if I also didn’t thank Comcast Business for sponsoring this important initiative for our region. We are grateful for their continued support. The next Taste of Middlesex County is scheduled for June 21-27. Please save the dates, and please continue to support local small businesses as best you can.
On this week’s chamber calendar, we look forward to important meetings of our Westbrook Division, Westfield (Middletown) Division, the chamber’s Finance Committee, and our East Haddam and Haddam Division.
On the grand opening front, I look forward to joining chamber Chairman Tom Byrne, Haddam First Selectman Bob McGarry, and other local leaders Monday afternoon for a celebration for Wonder Paws.
As knowledgeable pet groomers, the team at Wonder Paws offers a full-range of services designed to give pets the best care possible. We wish Gemmina Gorski and the entire Wonder Paws team all the best moving forward, and look forward to celebrating with them Monday.
Before closing, I ask that members and other interested parties March 15 for our annual member breakfast meeting with UConn Head Women’s Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma. I will have much more on this event as we get closer, but it is safe to say we are excited to welcome coach back to a chamber event, this time in a virtual setting.
I am afraid I must close this week’s column on a sad note after the recent passing of Richard “Dick” Bond at the age of 77. Dick was the father of former Portland police officer David Bond, and the father-in-law of chamber Vice President Johanna Bond. Dick Bond led a life that was marked by service to community, country, and, most importantly, to family.
He served as a police officer in Burlington for over 35 years, and served our country in the Connecticut National Guard for over 10 years. He was a loyal, honorable man who will be missed by many, especially his loving family. Our thoughts and prayers are with Dick’s wife, Jacqueline, David and Johanna; Dick’s daughters Melissa and Lori, and their spouses, his seven grandchildren, and vast network of extended family and friends.
Dick Bond certainly led a life well-lived, and his family is forever proud.