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Tri-State Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
 
A Special Thank You to our Sponsors, we are very appreciative for your support!


           
  salisbury garden-logo    WHDD-logo  

   

Weekly Newsletter February 3rd, 2016
In This Issue
Buy local-transparent background
New and Renewed Membership
 

Please Welcome NEW  Member

Print Master
Jody and Tom McKay
325 Ashley Falls Rd
Canaan, CT 06018
(860) 824-7565


Renewed Members

Downey Haab & Murphy, LLC
Gary L. Murphy
87 Main St.
Millerton, NY 12546
(518) 789-4442

Northwestern Mutual Life
John Morris
326 Albany Turnpike, Rte 44
Canton, CT 06019
(860)-693-0757 ext. 3002

Salisbury Garden Center
Eric Mendelsohn
167 Canaan Rd
Salisbury, CT 06068
(860) 435-2439


Thank you for your continued support!


To view this weeks newsletter 
click below to direct you to Berkshirestyle's home page.


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 to see what's playing at the 
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Click here for the latest news
from the
Internal Revenue Service

YOUR Business Listing
on our Website


Reminder to our members, as I continue to update and add pictures to our website.  I ask that you please take a few minutes to look at YOUR listing and please let me know if you would like to add, delete or make any other changes.  AND remember, you can add up to six (6) pictures, please send pictures as a jpeg file. 

Click here to view the complete list of members and click on YOUR listing and let me know of any changes.

If you have any questions please respond to this email or you can always give me a phone call at (860) 393-9171, my direct line at Litchfield Bancorp.
Roaring Oaks-NEW location




52 main
Feb info for 52 Main

52 Main in Millerton, NY 
welcomes you experience our Spanish Tapas made with an American Flair...small paltes of savory mouthfuls meant to be enjoyed with others. Stop in and let your senses linger at 52 Main is where can eat, drink, engage in lively conversation, friendship and hospitality.  Don't forget our Live Music show Saturday's @ 9pm!  Call for your reservation today (518) 789-0252.
Live Music Line-Up:

2/6      Josh Driver
2/13    TBA
2/20    The Biocentrics
2/27    Paul Pesco


"A World of Thanks" to Benefit SVAS

On Sunday, February 7, from 3:00-7:00 pm, the Interlaken Inn is hosting "A World of Thanks," a big game day celebration to benefit the Salisbury Volunteer Ambulance Service (SVAS).

Twelve local businesses are sponsoring twelve different beers from around the world which adult guests may sample as 4 oz tasters while enjoying the big football game on the Interlaken's 18 foot TV screen. The $29 entry ticket also entitles guests to a variety of complimentary foods, including chili, nachos, and a chocolate fountain with pretzels and marshmallows. Additional food options may be purchased for a nominal fee from NASCAR Dave and t-shirts commemorating the event will also be for sale.

Joining the Interlaken Inn, who will offer beer from Canada, are The Woodland, pouring German beer, The White Hart Inn, serving English beer; Belgian beer will be available from Ascendant, Riley's Furniture will serve Irish beer, Indian beer may be sampled with Sharon Hospital, Scottish beer is available from the Rooney Design Group, Lion Rock Farm will offer beer from Mexico, ITW will serve French beer, Italian beer can be found with The White Gallery, The Boathouse will pour Greek beer and American beer may be sampled with Lime Rock Park.

Additional "World of Thanks" sponsors are The Hotchkiss School, Litchfield Bancorp, National Iron Bank, Salisbury Bank and Trust, and Salisbury School. The contributions of these 17 local businesses will ensure that 100% of the event's proceeds benefit
(SVAS) which was founded by volunteers 45-years ago. SVAS is staffed by extensively trained, highly skilled volunteers who serve our community 24-hours a day, 7-days a week and never charge a fee. 100% of the SVAS budget is funded by local donations.

"A World of Thanks" concludes at 7:00 pm, although guests may stay to enjoy the game and tailgate menu items which will be available for purchase throughout the evening. The Interlaken Inn is located at 74 Interlaken Road, Lakeville, CT and more information may be found at www.interlakeninn.com or 860-435-9878. 


 
Job Opening at SVNA

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
 Part-Time or Per Diem

EARN EXTRA MONEY with a flexible schedule!

Should enjoy working with all age groups in the home environment. CT license required. Supportive team environment. Competitive wages.  
Come join the SVNA team! 
Send Resume to:  MGorat@salisburyvna.org.                                                   
30A Salmon Kill Rd, Salisbury, CT 06068
860-435-0816www.salisburyvna.org
 
An equal opportunity employer
 
Curves-Get Strong + Stay Strong

Litchfield Bancorp




Everyone Encouraged to Attend Fairview's Annual Heart Night


Contact: Lauren Smith
(413)854-9611
January 22, 2016

Fairview Hospital's CCU Team Sponsors Fifth Community Heart Night

The Critical Care Team at Fairview Hospital will sponsor Healthy Heart Night Friday, February 5th, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Berkshire South in Great Barrington. Fairview's CCU nurses host this free community event to raise awareness and access to information and resources in order to combat heart disease locally.

From 5:00-6:00 p.m., the members of Cardiology Services at Fairview Hospital will offer an overview of cardiac information that addresses common needs and issues facing the southern Berkshire population. In the first hour, attendees will gain insight into the services, programs and specialists that are available in Great Barrington at Fairview Hospital and at Berkshire Medical Center in Pittsfield.

Attendees of the opening seminar will be entered to win one of many raffle prizes from local restaurants and food establishments.

The opening presentation includes:

5:00 -6 p.m.  Lipids- Theresa Menendez, MD, FACC,
                     FHRS, Cardiologist
                     Cardiac MRI's and Coronary CTA- Vikas
                     Veeranna,MD, Cardiologist
                     Nuclear Medicine and Stress Testing -
                     Debbie Cahill, FNP and Kyle Cooper, MD.,
                     Cardiologist
                     The Experience of Cardiac Rehab- a
                     cardiac rehab patient

Following the opening program, the gym at Berkshire South will offer over twenty tables of heart health related information, screenings and resources as well as the opportunity to schedule appointments for diagnostic services at Fairview Hospital and programs offered through the Berkshire Partnership for Health, including Tobacco Treatment, Pre-diabetes, Get Cuffed Hypertension Program and Falls Prevention classes that are currently offered or upcoming.

Free blood pressure screening will be available.

The Canyon Ranch Life Enhancement Program at Fairview Hospital will provide information about the program, results and how to apply for future sessions.

The topic of e-cigarettes will be addressed by Fairview's Respiratory Therapy team. Case Management at Fairview will provide forms and information about Health Care Proxy and Advanced Directives as well as stress management. Volunteers in Medicine

Berkshire South will provide information about the extensive health programs and opportunities available.
All who attend will be entered to win one of the many door prizes donated by local businesses including The MarketPlace Kitchen, Michelle's Salon, Berkshire Co-op, Guido's, Berkshire Mountain Bakery, Domaney's, Plaza Package , Mission and many others.

For more information about Heart Healthy Night 2015, please contact The Office of Community Relations at Fairview Hospital at (413)854-9609. Additional photos available upon request.


Winterfest Photo Shows at Trinity Church



 
Art Auction to benefit Prime Time House


__________________________________________

Friday, April 1, 2016
Nancy Marine Theatre Lobby at the Warner Theatre
6:00 - 8 pm

Live & Silent Auction
Open bar & hors d'Oeuvres

Tickets:
$25 in advance
$30 at the door

 

Founders in New York


 
Scoville Events February 2016

Weekly Programs

Story Time with Miss Molly

Wednesdays at 10:30 am (February 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th) and Saturdays at 11:00 am (February 6th,13th, 20th, and 27th)

Twice a week our 45-minute story time for toddlers and preschool aged children focuses on a different theme through stories, singing and crafting fun! The five early literacy practices are playing, talking, singing, reading and writing (scribble/draw) -- and we will be rocking them all! Bring your own snacks.

NOTE: Meets at Salisbury Congregational Church in the parish hall
30 Main St, Salisbury, CT


Monthly Programs

Saturday February 13, 3:00

Saturday Book Club, "An Unnecessary Woman" by Rabih Alameddine

Told in the voice of a reclusive older woman, the story unfolds in Beirut, Lebanon within the confines of her small apartment. It is a quiet book about a lost woman in a loud and violent city. The Lebanese civil war is viewed through her memories. This book is also about literature, and a portrait of a woman living in a volatile time, who shuts out reality and loses herself in the written word until she reaches a breaking point.

Meets at Salisbury Town Hall

Unique Programs

Saturday February 20, 4:00 p.m.

The Era of Elegance: Ladies, Legends, and Lakeside Dwellings: Alfredo Taylor in Norfolk, CT presented by Dr. Ann Havemeyer. A collaboration of the Scoville Memorial Library and the Civic Committee of the Salisbury Association
A century ago, motorists driving to the village of Norfolk along Litchfield Road would have enjoyed a winding country lane dotted with a collection of impressive stone and timber houses. Proudly lining the road or dramatically perched on the hills above, many of these houses bear the signature of Alfredo Taylor, the Beaux-Arts architect whose work has come to define the look and style of this small town. Taylor came to Norfolk in the first years of the last century, and his distinctive hand is to be seen everywhere, as he and his clients, many of them female, put their imaginative mark on the landscape.

Ann Havemeyer is the Director of the Norfolk Library and Curator of the Norfolk Historical Museum. She has written several books on Norfolk history and architecture. She holds a doctorate from Yale University in the History of Art and has lectured extensively.

Meets at Salisbury Town Hall


Thursday, February 25
7:00 p.m.

Seeds of Longevity: Preserving Plants for Our Future. Presented by Robin Zitter, horticulturist and Lawrence Davis-Hollander, ethnobotanist. A collaboration of Plantin' Seeds and Scoville Memorial Library. Short film followed by presentation, discussion, and seed distribution. Seed diversity is fundamental to preserving biological diversity in gardens and native habitats. As part of the initial effort to establish seed libraries and a living seed bank in northwest Connecticut, Robin and Lawrence will introduce the rationale and need for locally based seed saving. Seeds will be available to committed participants. Followed in March by a seed planting workshop.

Meets at Plantin' Seeds, Main Street, Canaan, CT


Scoville Events 
Lawrence Davis-Hollander
Adult Program Coordinator

Scoville Memorial Library  38 Main Street  Salisbury, CT 06068
860.435.2838 / 413.229.8316 (home office)


Multi-Media Friday, Issue XLI

Multi-Media Friday Issue XLI, January 29, 2016
Lime Rock Park's once-per-week interweb heads-up for all you Automotive Ethernauts out there. It's not rocket surgery...
All Superstars Start Somewhere...
Back when the Skip Barber organization was owned by Skip himself (he sold the school 16 years ago), it was known for producing hundreds of drivers who successfully reached racing's top ranks. One of those famous drivers is Juan Pablo Montoya, the 7-time F1 race winner, two-time Indy 500 winner and longtime Sprint Cup competitor, not to mention two-time Rolex 24 at Daytona winner. In this month's MotorSport magazine, there's a very good piece by Damien Smith about JPM; he's talking with racing icon Vic Elford, who was instructing for Skip when JPM came though the school and the Pro Series in the early 1990s. Click on the main image for the story.

(By the way, MMF was there when Montoya raced Barber Saab in 1994. He was a smart, mega-quick kid. If you click here, you can see the synopsis of that season, when he won twice and finished third in the championship despite doing just half the races.)


JPM in Barber Saab, 1994; (far right) Juan Pablo instructing little bro' Frederico in 2003
----------
Magnus Opus
Magnus Racing is a race-winning, first-class, top-line professional IMSA sports car team. Its team marketing is brilliant, known for not taking itself too seriously, proved by its hilarious press releases and brilliantly produced videos. (Founder John Potter hasn't forgotten that racing is supposed to be fun!) Every year around this time, folks in the racing biz look forward to seeing Magnus Racing's pre-season video. And you don't have to know one iota about racing to appreciate how good this video is, done Lego style...
----------
People Will Do Anything for a Tee, Right?
We've asked everyone. Nobody knows what it is. What "it" are we talking about? The strange, Jeepster-looking thing you see more than a few times in this mega-most excellent music video from 1996. Are there any MMF readers who might be able to ID it? Clue: The band is Republica, who were from the U.K., so you gotta think the vid was shot in England. Anyway, if you know what this ugly-cute ute is AND you convince MMF that you actually know what you're talking about, let us know. Winner(s) get(s) a Lime Rock tee shirt (we decide which one) and a copy of the 2016 "No Name" magazine, published in May just before Lime Rock's Pirelli World Challenge season opener on Memorial Day weekend.

GFL!
----------
Fox TV times for Saturday/Sunday of the Rolex 24 at Daytona:
Click here to read about what's happening in the exciting GTLM and GTD classes

Saturday: Fox Sports 1 (FS1) from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. (2:40 p.m. green flag)
Fox Sports 2 (FS2) from 4:00 to 10:00 p.m.
IMSA.com from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Sunday
Sunday: FS1 from 7:00 to 10:30 a.m.
FS2 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
FS1 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. (2:40 p.m. checkered flag)

The tale about how 4 h.p. helped get a tractor-trailer un-stuck...

(Methinks Mr. T. Driver does not have a future in television. Just sayin'...)
----------
Until next Friday, we remain...
Lime Rock's Automotive Ethernauts
 
CERC eNews - January 2016

www.cerc.comPast Issues
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Municipal Economic Development Trainings
CERC and CEDAS are booking future dates for our FREE municipal economic development training, which is custom tailored to specific town(s) and designed to help those who impact economic development to work more collaboratively together.
Contact us to schedule training for your town! 

More info...
Connecticut Job Training Survey 
CCSU's Institute of Technology & Business Development (CCSU-ITBD) invites you to be a part of a research study to analyze firms' needs for job training and workforce development services in Connecticut.

Take the survey...
Engage, Educate, and Motivate at Connecticut Business Day 
March 9, Hartford
Hosted by the Connecticut Business & Industry Association (CBIA), Connecticut Business Day brings together business leaders and legislators to address factors impacting Connecticut's ability to reach its great economic potential. Topics include, state fiscal policy, workplace and employment issues, transportation, regulatory burdens, and much more. Join us on March 9 to make sure the voice of Connecticut business is heard at the state legislature.

Register now...
Save the Date for the Municipal Collaboration Summit 
March 18, Hartford
Hosted by the Hartford Business Journal, this event is an opportunity for people to learn the benefits of collaboration which will save money and leverage the purchases and agreements with their town. Panel discussions, workshops, and Q & A with key leaders and a distinguished panel of experts on the many ways that municipalities can collaborate to gain efficiency and control costs, and pass on the benefits to the taxpayers.

More info...
SAVE THE DATE: NEDA Conference 2016 
September 11-13, New Haven
This year's theme -Transportation at the Crossroads - The Economic Developers Road Map - the conference will focus on this question: How do we leverage our current and future transportation resources to create economic self-sufficiency? Financing, innovation, job creation, transit oriented development (TOD), and the next generation are topics to be explored.
Learn more...
Know someone who would be interested in receiving this information? Click here to tell them about it.
From the Desk of President and CEO Bob Santy 

Many definitions of economic development concentrate on creation, retention, expansion and recruitment of businesses - certainly appropriate, since that is where the jobs and investment come from that are the traditional measure of economic development success. But, from a community standpoint, economic development is about whether a town has the right combination of assets to attract the type of development they want.

Read Bob's letter...

Governor's Economic Development Forum    
February 16, Hartford
Join DECD for an informative and interactive forum on the state's overall economic condition, strategies, and activities. Previous economic development events at Rentschler Field have been a great success and this year's promises to be just as engaging and productive.
The forum will feature several speakers, including Governor Malloy, to discuss what has been accomplished, what is on the horizon, and how you can help in this effort. Various breakout sessions on topics pertinent to economic initiatives in our towns and cities, including state financing tools, entrepreneurialism and innovation.

Register now...

CERC Expands with Focus on Municipal Economic Development 
Courtney Hendricson has joined CERC as the Vice President of Municipal Services as part of CERC's strategic direction to improve economic development performance in Connecticut.  Courtney will drive services to municipalities, such as improving the town's regulatory process, analyzing commercial real estate mix, and providing targeted networking and communication among the local business community. 

Learn more...

SiteFinder 2016 Real Estate Survey
CERC is interested in your thoughts regarding expectations in the real estate market. Your input is important - please participate in the 2016Q1 survey.  Thank you.
Take the survey...

Be Part of Doing Business in Connecticut 
CERC Partners with HBJ to Offer Discount Opportunity The Hartford Business Journal's 2016 trade publication Doing Business in Connecticut, will be published in June and distributed statewide, nationally and internationally to approximately 30,000 readers and will showcase growth industries and industry clusters, key employment sectors, leaders and innovators making a difference, as well as Connecticut facts and figures!Doing Business in Connecticut is a perfect spot for Connecticut's towns and cities to promote their benefits using information and market messaging. The Economic Development offices throughout the state have a opportunity to highlight their unique attractions to specific companies and organizations. 

More information...

FREE WORKSHOP: What's Your 30 Second Commercial? 
CERC and Sandler Training are offering a FREE workshop on the "30 Second Commercial." A great 30 Second Commercial,carefully crafted with the focus on your listener, will dramatically increase your impact and differentiate you from others.  
Attend one of our FREE sessions at CERC in Rocky Hill:
  • Thursday, February 25 - 8:30 to 10:00 AM
  • Thursday, March 17 - 3:00 to 4:30 PM
Space is limited - RSVP today!

Register now...

CERC Real Estate Program Manager Joins IAMC Committee    
Erron Smith, CERC's Real Estate Program Manager, recently joined the Membership Relations Committee of the Industrial Asset Management Council (IAMC), the leading association of industrial asset management and corporate real estate executives, their suppliers and service providers, and economic developers.
Learn more...

Connect to CERC  
Visit the CERC Blog featuring economic development topics, including research, marketing and business development. Recent entries include:
Goals! Goals! Goals! - Beth Wallace
Who Do I Side With? - Alissa DeJonge
Timely and Important - Courtney Hendricson
Follow @CERCinc on:






I hope you enjoy this weeks newsletter, with information and offers from our members.  Click here to view our Website with more information. 
 

Reminder-as part of your annual membership dues advertising in the newsletter is one of the many benefits we offer for FREE. The same information is also included on our website. Please send all information to be included in the newsletter no later than Monday evening to be included in the following Wednesday morning newsletter. Also, please send your information in either a jpeg or pdf file, unless its a press release then a word doc. is fine.

 

If anyone has any questions, suggestions or comments please do not hesitate to contact me. I can be reached at  sdickinson@tristatechamber.com or call me at (860) 393-9171 M-F my direct line at Litchfield Bancorp.

If you are receiving this newsletter and are not yet members AND would like to advertise with us
FREE with membership, it's easy to join and for a very low reasonable annual fee. Please contact us for more information or respond to this email.  Check out our website at www.tristatechamber.com.

Sign UP TODAY
to be a Vendor at this years Taste of the Tri-State

 
Click here to view the PDF file and to
download the application!

Be a Sponsor of the Taste of the Tri-State


Become a SPONSOR of "Taste of the Tri-State"

Sunday, March 20th, 2016

The Tri-State Chamber's "Taste of Tri-State" Festival offers you four great ways to promote your business to more than 60,000 people. We rely on our sponsors to help us keep our costs low, thereby keeping booth costs affordable each year for our local businesses

                                   GOLD SPONSORS| $1000.00 | Benefits include:                                     
Internet Advertising * Newspaper & Radio Advertising
Radio Interviews * Listing in Newspaper inserts
(20,000 print run) * Press Release
Name on Promotional banners
DAY OF FESTIVAL: FREE 8' booth ($200 value)
Listing in Festival Directory
Sponsor boards & booth sign
 
SILVER SPONSORS | $500.00 | Benefits Include:
Internet Advertising * Newspaper & Radio Advertising
Listing in Newspaper inserts (20,000 print run)
Press Release
DAY OF FESTIVAL: Discount on 8' booth ($100 value)
Listing in Festival Directory
Sponsor boards & booth sign
 
BRONZE SPONSORS | $250.00 | Benefits Include:
Internet Advertising * Newspaper & Radio Advertising
DAY OF FESTIVAL: Listing in Festival Directory
Sponsor boards & booth sign
 
FESTIVAL SUPPORTERS | $25.00 - $200.00
Receive Listing in Festival Directory


NOTE: Payment and form must be received on or before
February 18th, 2016 to included in ALL advertising!

 
For more information, please call Susan Dickinson at (860) 393-9171 or email:  sdickinson@tristatechamber.com

 Business After Hours  
 
Our next event will be joint with the Exchange Club of Canaan
Tuesday, February 16th, 2016  From 5:30 pm - 7 pm
Meeting will be held at:
Geer
77 South Canaan Rd
Canaan, CT 06018
This will be a dinner meeting with a cost to all members of $10.00
(includes a full dinner provided by Geer)

********************************************************************************
If you are interested in hosting one of our wonderful business after hours
events please contact Susan Dickinson at (860) 393-9171 or email sdickinson@tristatechamber.com.  
We already have some booked to 2016, so call now to schedule an event.

New B & B - Sassafras Bed and Breakfast 




 

Visit their website for more pictures and information!  www.sassafrasbedandbreakfast.com

Jumpfest Winterfestival   
                                                    
Visit the website for up to date information-
www.awinterfestival.com



Miles of Smiles Directional Company


Saturday Morning Movies - With a Twist: THEATER A.M.!

ANNOUNCING THE DEBUT OF
"THEATER A.M."
ENCORE PERFORMANCES FROM THE
GREAT STAGES OF THE WORLD!
MILLERTON, NY---The Moviehouse in Millerton announces a new Arts programming initiative - THEATER A.M.! The Moviehouse will showcase encore screenings of their popular Arts programming at 10:00AM on select Saturdays throughout the year. 

The first THEATER A.M. screening is scheduled for Saturday, February 13 at 10:00 a.m..and features an encore screening of National Theater Live's wildly popular 2015 production of HAMLET, starring Benedict Cumberbatch from London's Garrick Theatre.

A second THEATER A.M. screening will take place on Saturday, February 20,and will feature Kenneth Branagh Theatre's THE WINTER'S TALE by William Shakespeare. The production stars Dame Judi Dench as Paulina and is directed by Sir Kenneth Branagh, who also plays Leontes in the play.

To introduce the new series The Moviehouse will  be providing complimentary morning coffee and pastries to guests for both February screenings.

THEATER A.M. is perfect for those who work late, those who prefer not to drive at night, student groups, seniors and anyone who would like to relax and enjoy a great performance on a Saturday morning and follow up with lunch at one of Millerton's great eateries.

Tickets are a lot less expensive than Broadway too - at $18 for Members and $21 for Non-Members. Tickets are available for purchase online and at The Moviehouse Box Office. Group rates are also available.

Look out for the red THEATER A.M. flag on The Moviehouse website -http://www.themoviehouse.net/

The Moviehouse, 48 Main Street, Millerton, NY 12546
Box Office: (518) 789-0022

Upcoming Events at Noble Horizons 

 
Riccardelli Accounting


Exciting New Payroll Options Available At Riccardelli Accounting Inc.
 
Riccardelli Accounting Inc. offers comprehensive payroll solutions for any size business. You do not need to be a bookkeeping client to take advantage of our payroll services! 
 
We Offer:
*Weekly Payroll starting at $25 per payroll run.
*Bi-Weekly Payroll starting at $45.00 per payroll run.
*These services include Quarterly Tax Filing and New Hire Reporting
 
Additional Services offered:
Direct Deposit
Year End W-2's, W-3's and 1099's
Worker's Comp Maintenance
 
Tax Season is Upon Us
Don't let the new Affordable Care Act regulations bring you down! Bring your taxes to Riccardelli Accounting for reliable, expert service. We are always accepting new clients.
 
Personalized Service
You will find our services to be competitively priced, with the added benefit of local, face-to-face service. We are always available to assist you!
 
Call us today! 860-824-9955
Conveniently located across from Stop in Shop in Canaan.

Salisbury Ski Jumps

Survive the Drive- Behind the Wheel



Litchfield Bancorp- eBlast News



Litchfield Bancorp- eBlast News - And the Winner is...

"Every Customer Counts" and so does Every Employee - especially here at Litchfield Bancorp.
Today we'd like to share with you an amazing employee story. Susan Dickinson, Assistant Vice President & Lakeville Office Branch Manager started with Litchfield Bancorp in 2004, and although her career started at another bank, she has worked her way through the ranks starting as a bookkeeper, teller, and eventually becoming branch manager.
Susan recently received the "New Leaders in Banking" award given by the Connecticut Bankers Association and Connecticut Banking Magazine .http://portals7.gomembers.com/ctbank/Home.aspx. To be considered, nominees need to be outstanding employees AND make a notable impact within their bank and community. For those who may not know, Susan is also the President of the Tri-State Chamber of Commerce and donates countless hours of her time to the local community. In 2013, she received the Rotary Club's Paul Harris Fellow Award for her service to the community.
Susan was presented with the award on January 14th during a ceremony at Mohegan Sun. "This award means so much to me because it confirms the ongoing support and encouragement that I receive from the leadership at the bank, including Paul McLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer, Tom Villanova, President & CEO of Litchfield Bancorp, and Don Mayland, Chairman of Litchfield Bancorp's Board of Directors "says Susan.
In addition to working with her fantastic co-workers, Joy Sherwood and Leslie Bonhotel, Susan really enjoys helping her customers. One of the most rewarding aspects is when she is able to help first time homebuyers purchase their dream home.
"The Litchfield Bancorp team could not be more proud of Susan for winning this prestigious leadership award. Susan is one of the hardest working, loyal and diligent employees we have. Her support and care for her customers is unmatched. We consider ourselves very lucky to have her!" says Paul McLaughlin, Senior Vice President and COO of Litchfield Bancorp.
Previous Litchfield Bancorp winners have included Paul McLaughlin, Margret Warner - Vice President and Director of Business Services, and Maura Malo - Chief Risk Officer.

Pictured Above: Susan with Tom Villanova
Advertise in The Hills



News from Salisbury Bank
SBT logoNEWS RELEASE
  
Contact:
Betsy Summerville, Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer
Salisbury Bank and Trust Company
5 Bissell Street, Lakeville, CT 06039
860.596.2105
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
                             
Salisbury Bank Offers 7 Tips to Prevent Tax ID Fraud
Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week is Jan. 25-29
 
Lakeville, CT - January 27, 2016 - As Americans begin the process of filing tax returns, identity thieves are scheming to get their hands on that money. Tax identity theft has been the most common form of identity theft reported to the Federal Trade Commission for the past five years. Salisbury Bank is using Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week, Jan. 25-29, to raise consumer awareness and provide tips to prevent tax ID fraud.
 
"Identity thieves look for every opportunity to steal your information, especially during tax season," said Betsy Summerville, Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Officer. "Consumers should be on high alert and take every step they can to protect their personal and financial information."
 
Tax identity fraud takes place when a criminal files a false tax return using a stolen social security number in order to fraudulently claim the refund. Identity thieves generally file false claims early in the year and victims are unaware until they file a return and learn one has already been filed in their name.
 
To help consumers prevent tax ID fraud, Salisbury Bank is offering the following tips:
  1. 1.     File early. File your tax return as soon as you're able giving criminals less time to use your information to file a false return.
  2. 2.     File on a protected Wi-Fi network. If you're using an online service to file your return, be sure you're connected to a password-protected personal network. Avoid using public networks like a Wi-Fi hotspot at a coffee shop.
  3. 3.     Use a secure mailbox. If you're filing by mail, drop your tax return off at the post office or an official postal box instead of your mailbox at home. Some criminals look for completed tax return forms in home mailboxes during tax season.
  4. 4.     Find a tax preparer you trust. If you're planning to hire someone to do your taxes, get recommendations and research a tax preparer thoroughly before handing over all of your financial information.
  5. 5.     Shred what you don't need. Once you've completed your tax return, shred the sensitive documents that you no longer need and safely file away the ones you do.
  6. 6.     Beware of phishing scams by email, text or phone. Scammers may try to solicit sensitive information by impersonating the IRS. Know that the IRS will not contact you by email, text or social media. If the IRS needs information, they will contact you by mail first.
  7. 7.     Keep an eye out for missing mail. Fraudsters look for W-2s, tax refunds or other mail containing your financial information. If you don't receive your W-2s, and your employer indicates they've been mailed, or it looks like it has been previously opened upon delivery, contact the IRS immediately.
 
If you believe you're a victim of tax identity theft or if the IRS denies your tax return because one has previously been filed under your name, alert the IRS Identity Protection Specialized Unit at 1-800-908-4490. In addition, you should:
  • Respond immediately to any IRS notice and complete IRS Form 14039, Identity Theft Affidavit.
  • Contact your bank immediately, and close any accounts opened without your permission or tampered with.
  • Contact the three major credit bureaus to place a 'fraud alert' on your credit records:
    • o   Equifax, www.Equifax.com, 1.800.525.6285
    • o   Experian, www.Experian.com, 1.888.397.3742
    • o   TransUnion, www.TransUnion.com, 1.800.680.7289
    • Continue to pay your taxes and file your tax return, even if you must do so by paper.
 
More information about tax identity theft is available from the FTC at ftc.gov/taxidtheft and the IRS at irs.gov/identitytheft.
 
Salisbury Bank is a full-service community bank headquartered in Lakeville, Connecticut and presently operates full service branches in Canaan, Lakeville, Salisbury and Sharon, Connecticut; Great Barrington, Sheffield and South Egremont, Massachusetts; as well as Dover Plains, Fishkill, Millerton, Newburgh, Poughkeepsie, and Red Oaks Mill, New York. The Bank has been serving families and businesses for over 160 years and offers a full range of consumer and business banking products and services as well as trust and investment services.


Home Application period open for Habitat of Northwest CT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Tracy Atwood, President
Habitat for Humanity of Northwest CT (860) 824-7258
TWO HOMES, TWO FAMILIES:
IT'S A HAND UP, NOT A HAND OUT

FALLS VILLAGE, CT January 4, 2016. Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut announced today that applications are now being accepted from potential applicants for two homes located in Falls Village. There will be an open house on Saturday January 23, from 1 - 4 pm at both homes: 86 Sand Road and 40 River Road, both in Falls Village. The application period ends on February 10, 2016.

The mission of Habitat's Northwest Connecticut affiliate is to provide quality, affordable housing for moderate-income, working families who live, work, or have some other close connection in Canaan/Falls Village, Cornwall, Norfolk, North Canaan, Salisbury or Sharon.

Habitat caters to people who are priced out of the local home ownership market by a limited income, but earn enough to afford the lower monthly payments that Habitat's program makes possible. For example, a family of four must make less than a combined gross income of $52,200. This figure is adjusted up or down depending on the size of family.

Habitat does not serve the housing needs of those with minimal income - other agencies, both governmental and private, are set-up to assist that segment of the population. Nor will it serve the needs of those who are able to qualify for commercially available mortgage funds.

To be eligible for a Habitat home, applicants must have a need to improve their living conditions. For instance, if they're now squeezing too many family members in a one-bedroom apartment, if they're perhaps enduring serious mold conditions, a failing or inadequate heating system, poor insulation, or any other issue that significantly impairs quality of life. They must also demonstrate a sense of responsibility for meeting current financial obligations, like rent, as well as verify adequate income to pay Habitat's comfortably affordable monthly payments.

Additionally, applicants must commit to partner with Habitat by investing 400 hours of their own labor in the Habitat program. That means working on the construction of Habitat homes, theirs or one for another family. "Sweat equity" can be earned in other ways, like volunteering to work in Habitat's fund-raising events or at our store in Canaan or other approved activities. Other family members can contribute time to be credited as sweat equity -- even friends and relatives are welcome to pitch in.

"Habitat's proven formula for maintaining affordable terms is based on keeping acquisition and construction costs low, and making interest-free mortgages," said Dawn Whalen, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut. Dedicated volunteers, including the partner family, provide construction labor, under the skilled supervision of qualified professionals. Local vendors, artisans and craftspeople donate or offer sharply discounted prices for high quality supplies, materials, and specialized labor. Other local corporate and individual donors, committed to the notion of providing affordable housing in the area, also subsidize the process.

Then, upon transfer of title to the partner, now owner, Habitat retains ownership of the land, thereby reducing the buyer's monthly obligation for real estate taxes. Habitat assumes the role of a lender, making a zero-interest mortgage for a reasonable term that best suits the financial strength of the qualified applicant.

Are you or perhaps someone you know --a relative, a friend, an employee, an associate or a neighbor perhaps- eligible to become part of the Habitat Home Partnership Program? Don't wait! Call Tracy Atwood now at (860) 824-7258. Habitat will accept applications only until February 10, 2016.


                    Under Renovation: 86 Sand Road & 40 River Road, Falls Village


ABOUT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY OF NORTHWEST CT:

Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut is a locally run affiliate of Habitat for Humanity International, a nonprofit, ecumenical Christian housing organization. We serve the six-town area of Canaan/Falls Village, Cornwall, Norfolk, North Canaan, Salisbury, and Sharon.

Volunteers provide most of the labor, and individual and corporate donors provide money and materials to build Habitat houses. Partner families are required to work 400 hundred hours - "sweat equity"- in building their own home and the home of others. The houses are sold to the partner families with a no interest loan. The mortgage payments go into a revolving fund used to help build more houses.

Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut promotes home ownership by building houses in partnership with residents in need of adequate housing. In 2015, our affiliate dedicated its eleventh home located in North Canaan.
Dawn Whalen, Executive Director
Habitat for Humanity of Northwest Connecticut
dawnwhalen@habitatnwct.org
860-435-4747