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| Kent County Chamber of Commerce Newsletter |
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Kent County Chamber of Commerce
122 North Cross Street
P. O. Box 146
Chestertown,MD 21620
410.810.2968 Tel | 410.778.1406 Fax
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The Mission of the Kent County Chamber of Commerce is to serve, represent and be the leading advocate for the business interests of its membership in ways that enhance the environment of the business community and quality of life and well being of residents and visitors.
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CHAMBER NEWS  JUNE 2014
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LEADERSHIP
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
LORETTA LODGE
PRESIDENT
DAVID BOWMAN
The Peoples Bank
TREASURER
DIANE BRANDT
CNB Bank
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
KEN COLLINS
WCTR Broadcasting
LINDA DAWSON
Kent Forward
CREG FLEETWOOD
FAM&M Insurance Agency, Inc.
BOB GRACE
Dixon Valve & Coupling Company
BOB GREENWALD
East Coast Storage
LARRY HOUCK
Houck's Menswear
JIM RICH
Inn at Huntingfield Creek
BILL RUCKELSHAUS
Champion Realty, Inc.
LANSING WILLIAMS
Washington College
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CHAMBER EVENTS
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6/12/2014
Chamber Board Meeting
12:00 P.M.
Chamber Office
122 N. Cross Street
Chestertown, MD
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OLD GLORY!
June 14 is traditionally known as Flag Day, and on this day we celebrate the Star-Spangled Banner and all it represents. Flag Day is believed to have started in 1885 when B. J. Cigrand, a school teacher in Fredonia, Wisconsin, arranged for his students to observe June 14 as Flag Birthday in celebration of the 108th anniversary of the official adoption of the Stars and Stripes.
As we salute our flag, we are saluting the men and women who have served this great country throughout its history. We thank each and every member of our armed forces for their service and dedication to our country and its citizens. Many have given their lives to defend our freedoms. We will never forget.
Excerpted from Thomas S. Brazier's letter - Elks magazine, June 2013 |
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From the Executive Director
June is here, the weather is gorgeous and I think everyone's thoughts have turned to sandy beaches, flip flops and cool drinks.
May has been a busy month here at the Chamber. On May 7th, one of our newest members, Physically FITch hosted an Open House and Ribbon Cutting celebrating the opening of their new and larger facility at 6512 Church Hill Road (Rt. 213) in Chestertown.
Brian Billick, former Head Coach of the Baltimore Ravens spoke to a crowd of over 100 at Kent County High School on May 14. Talk about a motivational speaker. It is no wonder the Ravens achieved such great success under his leadership. ...and this coming from a Redskin fan.
The Chamber's annual Education Breakfast was held at Heron Point on May 20th with over 60 in attendance. Speakers included Dick Goodall representing Kent Forward, Dr. Karen Couch, Superintendent of Kent County Public Schools, Tracey Williams, Kent County High School Principal, and Nicole Parr, Career & Technology Education Resource Teacher.
The pièce de résistance however, was a presentation by a group of six Kent County High School seniors, Joseph Cichocki, Emory Lieber, Andrew Oatley, Cole Schieke, James Smith, and Jasper Ward. These were six Project Lead The Way--Pre-Engineering students who developed their capstone course project by finding a solution to a problem. They identified the problem to be opening a locker when combinations are forgotten or locker malfunctions occur. They came to the conclusion that the best solution would be to develop a fingerprint scanner to open the locker. The students went through the entire development and manufacturing process to see their problem identification through to the solution. The students engineered the entire project with guidance from their instructor.
Using Dr. Karen Couch as their subject, these students did a magnificent job, both on the project and the presentation. Other students also brought their project displays, though time did not allow for presentations of all of them.
You cannot listen to and talk with these students and not know that they are getting a top-notch education, right here in Kent County. I encourage anyone reading this to get involved with our schools and our students. It may sound cliché, but these students truly are our future!
On May 21st, I was privileged to attend the Kent County High School Annual Awards Ceremony to present the Kent County Chamber's annual scholarship award. This year's $1,000 scholarship was awarded to graduating senior Amber Marie Receski. Congratulations Amber!
Along with our sister counties, Queen Anne's, Caroline, Talbot & Dorchester the Kent County Chamber participated in the annual Regional Mixer, hosted by Chesapeake College on May 28th. This was the third annual Regional Mixer and is one of "the best" networking opportunities for businesses and individuals, you will find on the Eastern Shore . If you were not able to attend this year, you need to put this event on your calendar for 2015! The proposed date for this event next year is May 27, 2015.
From monthly networking events like our Legislative and Education breakfasts, and business-after-hours gatherings, to Ribbon Cuttings and Open Houses, to the numerous marketing opportunities in the annual Chamber Business Directory and the Chamber County Map, weekly newsflashes, and monthly newsletters, there are always opportunities to promote your business each and every day.
I take great pride in the Chamber that over the past 4 years, in difficult economic times, has managed to maintain a membership of just under 300, continues to sponsor monthly events, has increased the dollar value of our annual scholarship award, launched a new website and has expanded the number of marketing opportunities and benefits available for members. However, I have never lost sight that this is YOUR Chamber. The Chamber is here to serve our members, and YOUR input and participation is needed to continue to improve and strengthen the Chamber for a growing and vibrant business community.
This is YOUR invitation to join me in making the Kent County Chamber the best that we can be!
Loretta M. Lodge
Executive Director
"Whether you think you can or whether you think you can't, you're right!"
Henry Ford
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New Members Welcome
The following businesses have recently made an important investment in their future and a significant commitment to the community by joining the Kent County Chamber of Commerce _________________________
Charlie Johnson
310 4th Street, N.E., Suite 200
Charlottesville, VA 22092
434.220.7595 Tel | 434.220.3712 Fax
Apex Clean Energy is a leading U.S.-based developer of commercial-scale wind and solar energy facilities in North America.
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Harvey Wigder
24380 Waterview Drive
P.O. Box 985
Worton, MD 21678
Fulcrum Transitions helps CEOs embrace their better selves, enjoy their success and enrich their company, family, employees and community. A Vistage Group is a powerful forum for executives who want to grow their companies and develop their own leadership skills. It can be lonely at the top. A Vistage CEO peer advisory group enables business owners to have the support of trusted advisors at their finger tips. Each group meets once monthly. In these meetings group members help each other solve issues that are of immediate concern. They also benefit from learning from subject matter experts and world class speakers who present and answer questions about important business topics and topics of particular interest to the group. Each member also receives a monthly coaching session with the Chair. Vistage International was founded 60 years ago. It is the world's leading chief executive organization with over 17,000 members who are dedicated to helping each other to take their businesses to the next level
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R. Ford Schumann, Jr.
31850 Millington Road
Millington, MD 21651
Infinity Recycling is a local, non-profit recycling organization founded in 1989 to serve our mid-shore community by recovering materials that were once considered waste, and using these resources to create local jobs and to provide raw materials for in-county and out-of-state manufacturers.
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Billie Dodge
24204 Drayton Landing Drive
Worton, MD 21678
Eastern Shore Data, LLC specializes in Education, non-Profit, and Local Government, but can accommodate any Information Technology consulting or equipment integration project. The principals have over 50 years of combined experience in information technologies, IT engineering, project management, etc., from blueprint to retrofit.
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Please join us in welcoming our newest
Chamber members!
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Send Us News of Your Business and We Will Publish It for FREE!
You are invited to submit a FREE announcement about your business for each weekly Chamber NewsFlash. The content of your message should be about something that's happening in your business, announcement about an employee, an award that your business has won, etc. This space is not intended to be used for advertising. Please limit your message to 100 words or fewer. It's a great way to get your business noticed! Please note that your article may be edited for spelling, grammatical errors and/or length. Photos are welcomed. Submit your announcement to kentchamber@verizon.net.
Chamber NewsFlashes are published every Tuesday.
Deadline for submission is Friday to be included in the following Tuesday's NewsFlash.
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NEWS FROM & FOR OUR MEMBERS
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A HUGE thank you to all our teammates:
Mark, Grace, Margaret, Linda, Diana, Ellen, Jan, William, Bradley, Ellie, Gabriel, Bobbi, Sandy, Shelby, Katie and Julie! You all looked great!!
Thank you to all who donated to support Radcliffe Creek School.
We raised $1587!!!
Thanks to: Barbara ,Nancy,Diane,Sheila, Ellen, Anne, Sue, Sandy, Shelby, Richard, Bobbi, Todd, Ellie, Gloria, Margaret, Bill and Margaret, Linda, Shannon, Lois, Carol, Diana and the Lake family.
Margaret Janney is the winner of our Mani/Pedi combo!
We will be in touch for next year!
Best,
Melissa and Dan
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As the conclusion of the Bicentennial of the War of1812 comes to an end, it is an excellent time to ask the most important question and that is, "Why did the war take place?" After all, the British had lost the American Revolutionary War thirty years earlier and they were engaged in a major conflict with Napoleon. America, meanwhile, was still trying to pay for the Revolution and their army and navy were almost nonexistent. So, why did we have a war?
Mark Croatti, M.A., has taught North American Politics, Canadian Politics and American Politics at the United States Naval Academy, the George Washington University, the American University and several schools in the University of Maryland system and is uniquely qualified to lead us to a better understanding of the answers to this question.
Join us for History Happy Hour, 4 PM Friday, June 6 at the Bordley History Center, 301 High Street in Chestertown and learn more about our early history.
Wine and cheese will be served, courtesy of Steve and Sandy Frohock. This event is free and open to the public, although we do ask for a donation from non-members.
See you on Friday!
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Tulips as interpreted by the three artists (from left, Christel Mottur-Pilson, Melinda Carl and Cindy Stafford) showing in RiverArts' exhibition, "Color, Rhythm and Harmony." Opening reception is Friday, June 6 from 5-8 p.m
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FIRST FRIDAY AT KENT COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY:
A QUARTET OF PLEIN AIR ARTISTS
Chestertown, MD, May 30, 2014 - On First Friday, June 6th, Kent County Public Library will open its June art exhibit featuring a quartet of plein air artists with a reception from 5-8pm at the Chestertown Branch. All are welcome to attend this family-friendly event.
In June we present four local artists who are inspired by nature. Barbara Finneson and Marjorie Morani both work in oil or pastel. Taffy Griffiths paints in oil or watercolor, as does Jack Fancher. For all four, the out-of-doors light and colors feed their painting impulse as they create art in locations around the Eastern Shore and elsewhere.
Artwork showcased at the First Friday reception will remain on display during the month of June.
For more information about these events or to learn about becoming a featured artist at KCPL, please call 410.778.3636 or visit the Chestertown Branch at 408 High Street, Chestertown.
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Contact:
ABC2
Nicola Beddow
(202) 467-2051
Nicola.beddow@abc2.org
Neema Hospitality
Sandeep Thakrar
(240) 285-6690
info@neemahospitality.com
For Immediate Release:
May 27, 2014
PENNSYLVANIA-BASED HOTEL GROUP -- NEEMA HOSPITALITY -- TO SUPPORT BRAIN CANCER RESEARCH CHARITY
BethAnn Telford, a brain cancer survivor and Ironman athlete, is the inspiration behind the company's summer hotel promotion
(Mechanicsburg, PA) - Neema Hospitality will donate $5 per stay at its ten hotel properties in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Maryland to support Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure, a non-profit research organization. BethAnn Telford is the inspiration behind the summer charity promotion. Telford is a brain cancer survivor, Ironman World Champion triathlete and childhood friend of Sandeep Thakrar, a senior advisor at Neema Hospitality.
Telford and Thakrar were close friends growing up in Mechanicsburg, PA. Years later, they reconnected when Thakrar learned that Telford was battling brain cancer and competing in the Ironman World Championships in Kona, Hawaii. "When I heard that my childhood friend BethAnn had terminal brain cancer I was devastated," says Thakrar. "When I learned how she is dealing with that life challenge, I became inspired to do everything in my power to help her support brain cancer research."
Telford, who now lives in Fairfax, Va., has raised a half-million dollars in the past five years for research into pediatric cancer and brain tumors through the non- profit Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure. "Though my brain cancer has given me many obstacles to overcome," Telford said, "it has blessed me with the support, love, and friendship of so many. It is so wonderful to be reunited with my friend Sandeep, and to have his and his family's support. I am so thankful."
Neema Hospitality will donate $5 per stay. The promotion will be valid from Memorial Day to Labor Day 2014.
Click the link below to take advantage of the charity promotion at the participating properties: http://www.neemahospitality.com/hotels.html
In order to donate more to find a cure for brain cancer, please donate directly at: www.abc2.org.
ABOUT NEEMA HOSPITALITY
Neema Hospitality is a leading hospitality group with a proven track record of success. It is known for its improving efficiency, increasing revenues, and excellent customer service. Founded as a family business in 1986, Neema Hospitality's portfolio includes franchise licenses with Hilton, Intercontinental Hotel Group and Choice Hotels with brands such as Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Comfort Inn, and EconoLodge and Suites. The firm manages properties in multiple states including: Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Maryland and provides complete services including operations, sales and marketing and revenue management. For more information, visit: www.neemahospitality.com.
ABOUT BETHANN TELFORD
BethAnn Telford has been fighting brain cancer since she felt a pop in her head while running the Marine Corps Marathon in 2005. Nine years after her life-changing diagnosis, Beth Ann, from Camp Hill, PA, has become a symbol of hope, courage and determination for people facing all types of challenges in their lives. Brain cancer, rather than slowing her down, has pushed her through three Ironman competitions and three Boston Marathons. For more information, visit: www.teambt.org.
About Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure (ABC²)
Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure is focused on speeding the discovery of a cure for brain cancer. By applying an aggressive, venture funding approach not typically seen in the non-profit sector, ABC2 closes current gaps in funding in order to catalyze research and rapidly bring new therapies to patients. ABC2 brings together scientists from leading research institutions and companies to drive collaboration and invest in projects, which demonstrate leadership, leverage, and impact. For more information, visit www.abc2.org.
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SENIOR DISCOUNTS
IN KENT COUNTY
Approximately two years ago, the Kent County Chamber of Commerce and the Kent County Commission on Aging collaborated to develop a brochure listing discounts available for seniors. At that time over 90 local businesses participated. We realize that this document needs updating since several new businesses have opened and some have closed. In order to complete this task, we need your assistance!
Providing discounts for seniors, even if it is only one day a week, can increase your retail sales and will help our older residents financially.
If you would like to participate in this project, please send the following information by May 31, 2014 to:
Pat Clarke at pclarke@atlantic. bb.net
or
Loretta Lodge at kentchamber@verizon.net
Business Name:
Address:
Contact Person:
Phone Number:
Discount % or Amount:
Minimum Age to Qualify for Senior Discount:
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Lorrie S. Twilley
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Lorrie Twilley Celebrates 25 Years with Shore Bancshares
Shore Bancshares, Inc. is proud to recognize Lorrie S. Twilley for 25 years of dedicated service to the financial holding company, headquartered in Easton, MD. Ms. Twilley began her career with CNB (previously Centreville National Bank of Maryland), a member of Shore Bancshares community of companies, in 1989 as a Bookkeeper. In 1994, she was named Supervisor of Bookkeeping at CNB, and when Shore Bancshares consolidated the CNB and The Talbot Bank bookkeeping departments in 2003, Ms. Twilley was named Operations Supervisor. Since 2008, she has served as Chief Banking Operations Manager at Shore Bancshares, Inc. In her current role, Ms. Twilley is responsible for the oversight of the deposit operations department at the company's headquarters for CNB and The Talbot Bank.
Over the years Ms. Twilley has completed coursework at Chesapeake College and the American Bankers Association. She has also completed a number of Dale Carnegie courses and regularly participates in MACHA and Federal Reserve Seminars. "Lorrie's extensive experience and comprehensive knowledge of deposit operations make her an invaluable member of our team," said Donna Stevens, Chief Operations Officer at Shore Bancshares Inc. "We are pleased to celebrate her tenure with the company and grateful for her loyalty and contributions to our business."
Ms. Twilley resides in Centreville with her husband, Ralph. She has two children, Tiffaney Palmatary and Dustin Greenwood; two step children, Alyssa Haldeman and Christopher Twilley; two grandchildren, Tara and Trey Palmatary; and a Labrador, Max. Ms. Twilley has been active in the community for many years and enjoys giving back through volunteering. She proudly participates in many fundraisers for Breast Cancer Awareness and is a member of the Ruthsburg Community Center. In her spare time, Ms. Twilley takes pleasure in spending time with her family and friends. She enjoys swimming, reading, boating, gardening, attending Raven's games, and going to the beach.
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IN THE NEWS
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AROUND THE STATE
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Send Us News of Your Business and We Will Publish It for FREE!
You are invited to submit a FREE announcement about your business for each weekly Chamber NewsFlash. The content of your message should be about something that's happening in your business, announcement about an employee, an award that your business has won, etc. This space is not intended to be used for advertising. Please limit your message to 100 words or fewer. It's a great way to get your business noticed! Please note that your article may be edited for spelling, grammatical errors and/or length. Photos are welcomed. Submit your announcement to kentchamber@verizon.net.
Chamber NewsFlashes are published every Tuesday.
Deadline for submission is Friday to be included in the following Tuesday's NewsFlash.
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NEW!!! Notary Service Now Available!
Notary services are now available free to our members at the Chamber by appointment. Please contact the Chamber office to schedule an appointment.
- E-Blasts - Broadcast E-Mail Service Available!
The Chamber offers an E-Blast service to all of our members. In an effort to help you build your business and get your message out efficiently and cost effectively, the Chamber office will send an email specifically on your behalf to all Chamber members and non-members who have signed up for our mailing list. This is an excellent way to announce new products, services or events. As a Chamber member, you can take advantage of this service at a very reasonable cost of $25. Please contact the Chamber office for further details.
- SCORE (Service Core of Retired Executives)
Invites retired executives to become counselors for new and existing local businesses. Contact Bill Noll at SCORE to get more information: wbnoll@yahoo.com.
- Help Us Help You. Keep Your Business Information Current!
Please remember to contact Loretta in the Chamber office if you have any changes or updates to your business contact information. We want to keep all of our members' information current.
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Member-To-Member Benefit Program
This program allows any Chamber member to offer discounts on their products and services to other Chamber members and their employees. Even if you do not offer a discount to fellow members, as a Chamber member, you may take advantage of the discounts offered by other members.
For details about discounts offered by participating members, please contact them directly.
Don't miss out! Sign up for this program today!!
The following businesses are participating members.
Please support these businesses!
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