March 2012 - Stamford Chamber of Commerce
Transcription
March 2012 - Stamford Chamber of Commerce
S TAMFORD BUSINESS OUTLOOK MARCH 20, 2012 In This Issue Governor’s Focus on Three Points in Session Mayor Pavia and Small Businesses Dollars for Scholars, A Successful First Year WorkPlace Recognized on 60 Minutes Hands of Life Looks To Put Stamford in Guinness Book With CPR Day THE 2012 LEGISLATIVE SESSION 0320BM08B001_15355.indd 1 A Marketing Publication From The Advocate 3/29/2012 4:04:17 PM Is Your Image A Business Boost? Here’s what Dan Tyler, State Farm Agent says is the 4 Building an Economic Revival Supporting Connecticut Businesses Mayor Michael Pavia’s Small Business Initiatives 5 Photographic Memories Difference Challenges of The 2012 Legislative Session The 2012 Legislative Session and Businesses 6 Deborah & Dan – Good Schools Are Good For Our Economy I just wanted to drop you a note to thank h k you ffor the wonderful business picture you took. As you know, I’m not the most photogenic subject matter and I hate having my picture taken. In the past, I didn’t really see the necessity for a quality “corporate headshot”. However, since I started using the picture that you took for my website and business correspondence, I have had people come up to me and say that they chose to do business with me rather than the other two State Farm agents in Stamford based solely on my picture. This is true for both my online presence and the direct mail I send out. Now, my picture goes on everything I can put it on. 2 • March 20, 2012 • Stamford Business Outlook What’s Inside For Stamford Companies, Education Means Business Hope For The Long Term Unemployed Gets 60 Minutes Review 7 2012 Legislation Session 10,000 In Stamford To Set New Hands-Only CPR World Record 8 Members Making News 9 Welcome New Members Thanks again for the business boost! Sincerely - Dan Stamford 203-321-8300 The Stamford Business Outlook is a monthly publication of the Stamford Chamber of Commerce. It is published in conjunction with The Advocate Newspapers. This publication does not represent the views of The Advocate Editorial department. To advertise, please call 203.964.2408. STAMFORD BUSINESS OUTLOOK John Condlin, President, Stamford Chamber of Commerce Award Winning Portrait Studio Images created by Dan & Deborah Tual photographic-memories.org 0320BM08B002_12122.indd 2 Barbara Seiter, Vice President, Stamford Chamber of Commerce Carrie Sandor, Special Sections Coordinator, The Advocate Shelley Lowell, Special Sections Designer Geri Fortunato, Director of Membership, Stamford Chamber of Commerce Photo Credits: Cover, Page 3 (Condlin), Page 7 (Capitol Building): Dan Tual, Photographic Memories 3/29/2012 4:05:39 PM What’s in store for the 2012 Session? After last year’s session of tax increases and the special Jobs session that was called in October, the 2012 session will be somewhat run of the mill. Or is this the sleeping giant? The governor opened the session with a three-point vision: fiscal responsibility, Connecticut is open for business, and education reform. When it comes to fiscal responsibility, there is much concern that the revenue that was projected as a result of last year’s tax increases will not be realized. The parties cannot agree upon what the final number is going to be, but they all agree it is going to be a substantial shortfall. Is Connecticut open for business? Thanks to the Jobs bill, aka the Miracle of October, which provided significant funding for companies to pump money into their businesses, the answer could be a resounding yes. The Stamford Chamber, working with the State Department of Economic and Community Development and the Connecticut Community Development Fund, will help promote this program going forward. A Message from the President of the Stamford Chamber The Education Reform Bill is getting the most play at this point and is being supported on both sides of the aisle. The Governor’s bill puts forward a strong reform agenda. The goal is to raise overall student performance and close the state’s large achievement gap. The bill focuses on ensuring that all school districts in Connecticut have effective teachers and principals. Similar education reform efforts have been adopted by other states and early indications are that they are helping to improve student performance. The 2012 session could be a run of the mill session, but then again with the pending deficit, the educational reform and the traffic cameras, it could end up being the session of a lively debate. We will keep you updated as the session continues. John P. Condlin President and CEO Stamford Chamber of Commerce 0320BM08B003_15358.indd 3 Stamford Business Outlook • March 20, 2012 • 3 As an off-subject to the Governor’s vision, there is a bill pending that would allow municipalities to install traffic cameras to catch red light violators. This is a bill that is being lobbied for by companies outside of Connecticut. Basically they install, manage and collect the fines for violations caught on the camera. At first blush this sounds very laudable. No one supports red light violators. But when you consider that these infractions are way down on the list of what is causing accidents (and in most instances these cameras have led to an increase in accidents), it seems illogical that the legislators would pass such a bill. Considering that an extended yellow light has shown to have a more positive impact on reducing traffic accidents, Connecticut legislators should think hard and long before passing the bill. 3/29/2012 4:05:30 PM Building an economic revival Connecticut’s public schools were once a model for school systems across the nation, places that drove our students to excel and made them competitive in the global marketplace. Today, our state has the unfortunate distinction of having the worst achievement gap in the country. Yes, there are many places in our state where there are good schools and students performing well. But in too many parts of the state, that is simply not the case. Last summer, I went on a Jobs Tour that took me to more than 80 businesses, chambers of commerce and other events, an experience that gave me the opportunity to meet with Governor Dannel P. Malloy hundreds of our state’s busi- too long, we’ve let the challenge ness owners. As I traveled the of reforming public education – the key to state, nothing was more producing a frustrating than a refrain well qualiI heard from too many fied workemployers. They said, “I force – go have job openings, but unanswered. I can’t find workers in We can’t Connecticut with the allow that to skills to fill them.” happen any That is maddening longer. to hear. Imagine that; we A little have jobs that need to be Dannel P. Malloy more than a filled – good jobs – and we have people that desper- month ago, I announced that ately want to work. Yet those our primary effort during the jobs remain unfilled and those 2012 legislative session would people remain unemployed. It’s be to fix what’s broken in our public schools. got to stop. In December, I sent a letter Our problem is not the result of ill will or bad intentions. For to the leaders of the General Supporting Connecticut businesses 4 • March 20, 2012 • Stamford Business Outlook State Senator L. Scott Frantz We are now about halfway through the 2012 legislative session. As you may be aware, the Governor has pledged to make education reform a top priority this year. While a highly-educated workforce is key to future economic growth, I believe a much more urgent plan to stimulate economic and job growth should be executed, including tax cuts and the removal of burdensome regulations that typically slow down business decision making and commerce. Looking back at the past year, however, laws were enact- ed that have posed an increasing challenge for Connecticut businesses. Between limited economic growth and an increase in the cost of doing business, it is not hard to understand why our state has not seen a more meaningful recovery. During the last legislative session, we saw the passage of the largest tax increase in state history and mandatory paid sick leave for small businesses with more than 50 employees. Over two years, the historic $3.9 billion revenue increase will affect every business, consumer and resident in our state. While it is too soon to say for certain, paid sick leave may also ultimately hinder future hiring. However, I am optimistic we will see greater economic growth in 2012. Last year, GDP growth was pegged at the low rate of 1.7%. There is certainly room for improvement, but it also means that we are headed in the right direction. Additionally, the legislature reconvened for an October special session to focus on economic development and job creation. Numerous provisions were enacted, including expanded tax incentives for angel investors and assistance Assembly where I outlined six fundamental principles that I believe must guide our education reforms: • Target additional resources with accountability to our lowest performing schools • Expand access to early childhood education • Support interventions in Connecticut’s lowest performing schools and districts • Focus on teacher and principal talent through performance-based evaluation and professional development • Unleash innovation by removing red tape • Fund and enhance accountability of high quality school models The legislation I introduced, Senate Bill 24, invests an additional $50 million in school districts across the state, targeting $39.5 million to the lowest achieving districts as long as they come up with a plan that will improve student achievement. We’re also developing a $4.5 million competitive grant program for all districts to innovate and test best classroom practices. We know that early childhood education is essential to ensuring young people become successful later in life, which is why we’re proposing to create 500 new slots for pre-school, fund improvement programs and professional development for child care providers and early childhood educators, and a quality rating and improvement system. A Commissioner’s Network will be created to provide intensive support for schools with severe needs in order to bolster performance. We also want to increase job readiness by tailoring programming at our vo-tech schools to the needs of employers, so that students are better prepared for real-world employment. These are just some of the changes that we’re proposing, but the taken together, they represent the boldest attempt to turn around public education in our state in decades. If we are to create an economic revival, if we are to make progress in our state, we must take on the tremendous challenge of fixing what’s broken in our public schools, and we must do it today. for small manufacturers to rein- conduct a cost-benefit analysis of all existing state vest in capital. regulations and allow As Ranking the General Assembly Senator on the to direct state agenCommerce cies to amend their Committee, I have regulations. This bill been working would also expedite on crafting prothe state’s permitting business legislaprocess by requiring tion and would L. Scott Frantz DEEP to establish like to share these two examples that are currently a schedule for timely review. If delayed beyond 90 days, a being considered. First is H.B. 5465, An permit would be automatically Act Concerning The State’s approved. Regulatory And Permitting Second is S.B. 164, An Act Process. Among its provisions, Concerning A Small Business this bill seeks to minimize any Reinvestment Account. This adverse affects of state regula- bill would allow small busitions on economic activity. It nesses to defer paying taxes on would require the DECD to income that is deposited in a reinvestment account and used for capital expenses and worker training. This income would later be subject to one-half the rate of tax. To encourage further economic growth, we must work toward lowering taxes and reducing regulatory burdens on businesses in our state. Once achieved, this would encourage more startup activity and out-of-state companies to relocate here without the need for expensive incentive packages. I am hopeful that my colleagues in Hartford will agree that job creation and economic development must remain top priorities for the remainder of this year’s legislative session. Mayor Michael Pavia’s small business initiatives A key theme of my election campaign was a goal to foster small and medium sized businesses in Stamford. In Connecticut, 85% of our businesses employ between 1-20 people. From 2005-2009, companies with 1-4 employees were the only job creators, bringing 21,557 net new jobs to our state! That commitment and focus remain central to my administration. Last year I initiated my 0320BM08B004_12127.indd 4 Small Business Task Force. They and my Office of Economic held a series of five seminars Development will join with the with topics relevant Community to small and medium Economic business including the Development use of social media, Fund to business planning, assist in the marketing and financdeployment ing. This spring, the of Governor Stamford Chamber Malloy’s Small of Commerce, the Business Fairfield County Express Business Council Program. Michael Pavia This program, supporting a wide range of uses, will make available loans from $10,000-$250,000 to Connecticut based businesses with 50 or fewer employees. We have also extended the hours of service in the Building Department, begun to streamline the approval process and are evaluating moving aspects of the permitting process on line. One of the most precious commodities small business own- ers have is time. It is my hope through these initiatives, that we can make doing business at Government Center as efficient as possible. Integral to all business and citizens in Stamford, is my goal to assure that our value proposition to work and live in Stamford remains second to none. From our quality of life, to the diversity of our business base, to our strong schools and being what I like to call – a subway stop from Mid-town Manhattan, Stamford continues to be the economic engine of our state and a wonderful place to live. My administration will continue its focus and support of the essential part of our economic engine, the many small and medium sized businesses that call Stamford home. 3/29/2012 4:05:43 PM Challenges of the 2012 Legislative Session To help keep this momentum going, the legislature this year is focusing on several areas to help business and create jobs. Small businesses consistentState Representative William Tong ly tell us that the high cost of After going through an unprec- believe that public and private health insurance is an impediedented financial crisis, employers will create 18,000 jobs ment to expansion and Connecticut in the last year between September job growth. To help turned a corner on the road 2011 and September businesses deal with to economic recovery. The fis- 2013, a rate of about this problem, there is cal and economic challenges the one-half of 1 percent legislation in the works state faced when the crisis began per year. that will allow small in 2008 were enormous, but Unlike the state’s businesses, including we took action to create jobs, frequent performance the self-employed, to encourage business development versus the nation’s William Tong purchase employee following economic and balance the budget. health care coverage through This year, business growth downturns, the state’s total outthe state employee health plan. and job creation continue to be put of goods and services could In last year’ s bipartisan Jobs our top priorities as we work to grow by 3.3 percent in 2012, Bill, we did a great deal to keep the state budget balanced. while national GDP growth is streamline the Brownfield develAnd while remaining commit- forecasted for 2.6 percent. A ted to keeping essential services reason for the growth is that opment process, allowing swiftproperly funded, we continue to the state will be benefiting from er conversion of contaminated strive toward a leaner and more $460 million in major construc- and long-abandoned properties tion projects this year and $1.5 to productive sites for economic efficient government. After losing thousands of jobs billion in 2013 in north-central development, open space and in the recession, Connecticut is Connecticut. The forecast is other public uses. We have had once again creating new jobs. based on continued low interest a great deal of success in securEconomists at the University rates, which the Federal Reserve ing state and federal funding of Connecticut’s Connecticut said would be in place for at least for Brownfield remediation as a great investment that creates Center for Economic Analysis two years. jobs, increases municipal tax rolls and cleans up the environment. This year we are looking to expand on these efforts, and continue to support additional funding as well as expediting the permitting process so that more projects can be undertaken. Last fall, we passed aggressive legislation to support the efforts of small businesses across the state to expand and grow jobs. Now, we need to increase the number of businesses that qualify for hiring incentives and tax breaks. To do that, there is legislation changing the definition of small business from 50 employees to 100 employees. That will greatly increase the The 2012 Legislative Session and businesses State Representative Livvy Floren Believe it or not, our in Connecticut. state government is a To ensure both a burden and an that we are preobstacle to the growth pared to instiof small businesses. Just tute common ask any Connecticut sense solutions, business owner about the General the oppressive over Assembly regulation and speoffered a list of cific taxes with which recommendaLivvy Floren they cope each and tions to the every day. These issues must Governor’s office proposing cerbe rectified to minimize the tain ways to improve the state’s invasive policies that discourage grim business climate and bring businesses from setting up shop small business growth back to number of businesses that can take advantage of these growth incentives. Connecticut has tremendous potential for growth and the legislation we are considering in this 2012 Session will help the state continue to move forward toward prosperity. Connecticut. Small businesses make up an overwhelming majority of Connecticut’s private sector economy, and the small business community is incredibly diverse, even including those conducting a business out of the home, like daycare owners or independent bookkeepers. According to the U.S. Department of Commerce, businesses with less than 500 workers account for nearly 98 percent of Connecticut’s employers and half of its private sector jobs. Around 88 percent of these roughly 75,000 small businesses have fewer than 20 employees. Legislative continued on page 7 TIME + UNDERSTANDING = SOLUTIONS. Expect all three. e take your business banking personally. At Webster, we’re all about making your business equations work. We’ll take the time to recognize your unique financial needs and help you find the solutions that fit. Expect a wide range of business solutions to help you keep your business on the plus side. To learn more, contact your Regional President, John Ciulla at 203.328.8134, or go to WebsterBank.com/ExpectIt. WebsterBank.com/ExpectIt Webster Bank, N.A. Member FDIC 0320BM08B005_12130.indd 5 The Webster Symbol and Webster Bank are registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Stamford Business Outlook • March 20, 2012 • 5 BUSINESS BANKING 3/29/2012 4:05:57 PM Good schools are good for our economy Representative Patricia Milller This year, I remain focused on encouraging economic growth and creating jobs in Connecticut. If we want to continue moving forward and growing goodpaying jobs, we must reform Connecticut’s schools. Improving our schools and closing the state’s academic achievement gap—the largest gap in the country—has been a priority since I first arrived at the legislature in 2009. But it has not been easy challenging the status quo and trying to overhaul a failing system. Governor Malloy’s declaration that this is the year of education reform and that he is commit- ted to reducing Connecticut’s academic achievement gap was welcome news. The achievement gap refers to the disparity of academic performance between groups of students, especially by ethnicity and socioeconomic status. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress project, Connecticut’s achievement gap is among the largest in the nation. As a member of the legislature’s Education Committee, I’ve fought for a number of essential changes in the past few years including raising academic standards, improving the supply of school leaders, establishing an students’ academic growth, from expanded data system to track pre-kindergarten through high school, and the creation of an Achievement Gap Task Force. But that has not been enough. I’m committed to working with Governor Malloy and my legislative colleagues this year to make further change. We must improve the quality and expand access to pre-school programs. Creating a quality rating system for early childhood education programs and requiring the State Department of Education to assess and report annually on the quality and effectiveness of all preschool Patricia Milller programs receiving government funding (and those not receiving funding that request a rating) is key. Eliminating the bureaucracy and red-tape faced by schools showing consistently strong academic results for their students is critical. If a school is doing something right, we need to make it easier for them to succeed and easier for other schools to replicate their success. If we are truly serious about turning around our failing schools we also need to improve teacher preparation so teachers enter the classroom ready to excel. We also need to expand the number of charter schools. Repositioning For Stamford companies, education means business Jim McClafferty and Tony D’Amelio, Co-Presidents, Stamford Dollars for Scholars 6 • March 20, 2012 • Stamford Business Outlook Ask business leaders to name their greatest asset and most all will say “our people.” In a business environment where talent is mobile and competition is global, getting the educated and prepared workforce you need is getting more complicated. The good news: the latest Census Bureau reported last month that the number of American adults 25 years of age and older that hold a Bachelor’s degree crossed the 30% thresh- old for the first time in our nation’s history. When you include Associate degrees, the number jumps to 41%. But there’s a catch: in a global business environment, where jobs and business follow talent more easily than ever, we need to do better because we still lag many devel- Jim McClafferty and Tony D’Amelio oped countries. For instance; for Associate degrees and above, Korea is at 63% -- and Japan and Canada are at 56%. In fact, the U.S. also comes in behind Norway, New Zealand, France, Australia and the U.K. What does this mean for your business and our commu- nity? Where will the talent come from to drive your business? A talent pool that has the skills you need to grow your business isn’t a nice-to-have; it’s essential. And that educated workforce is more than an economic and competitiveness advantage – it’s a social and cultural advantage for Stamford as well. In times like these -- with the cost of college continuing to increase and representing a significant barrier to talented vo-tech schools, like Stamford’s Wright Tech, will promote job readiness and job placement. Creating new funding sources and approaches to improve low performing schools is vital. We must improve the state’s education cost sharing (ECS) formula, because many children—including kids right here in Stamford—are getting the short end of the stick. We must reform our schools if we expect to meet the needs of the modern workplace. So I hope Stamford’s business community will join me in supporting serious school reform this year. students -- access to college is an issue which should be a concern to us all. And while access is great – completion is the key. As citizens and business owners we need to make it our business to support young people in their pursuit of education beyond high school – because if they do well, we’ll all do well. Stamford Dollars for Scholars is committed to the goal is helping local scholars achieve their dreams through education. For more information on their efforts and to learn what you can do to help, check www.sd4s.org. Hope for the long term unemployed gets 60 minutes review Joseph Carbone, President CEO WorkPlace Inc. A little over a year ago I asked for your support in a response to a profound structural change in our economy. The impacts of Great Recession were shedding millions of people from employment, with no hope for recovery. Long-term unemployment has the ability to erode self-confidence and self-esteem. It separates people from their profession, their education, and creates tremendous stress on the fabric of our families. A response was required that would be dramatically different. 0320BM08B006_16662.indd 6 Contributions from dozens of investors enabled us to move forward a program that is unique in workforce development and defies all traditional tools and remedies. Private funding established the cornerstone principle that business should be held free of risk when evaluating new job applicants. The financial support received from individual investors to Fortune 500 companies created a reason for businesses to listen and consider a new way to hire local talent. We have taken a tremen- dous step with our demonstration program called Platform to Employment (P2E). In just a few short weeks since graduation, nearly 60% of P2E participants have been placed. This is significant if you consider that for 99ers there is less than a 10% chance they will find employment within a month. Many people will ask about the significance of a demonstration program that helps 100 people. Some may question the impact when 100 people in our region lose benefits each week. Platform to Employment wanted to follow participants is an example of how a car- through the program. The work ing community of 60 Minutes can make a has been difference on a instrumennational stage. tal in raising In August awareness of we received a the magnitude call from 60 of long term Minutes regardunemploying their interment. Their est in explorprogram ing long term moved beyond Joseph Carbone unemployment numbers and and its impact on the workforce. statistics to focus on the faces They heard of our progress and and stories behind the emer- gence of this new dependent class. Under the spotlight of 60 Minutes, P2E is becoming a catalyst to make things happen for 99ers across this nation. I am thankful for the encouragement and backing of Jack Condlin and the Stamford Chamber of Commerce, the generous support of this community and the participation of local employers. Your involvement has made this social enterprise possible. 3/29/2012 4:10:27 PM 2012 Legislation Session Rep. Dan Fox The 2012 legislative session throughout the state in facilibegan on February 8, 2012, ties whose primary purpose is and concludes May, 9, 2012. hospice care. Patients in need During this session, of hospice care and just being the shorter of as importantly, their famithe two legislative lies, should have access to sessions in the bienpalliative care within the nium, the process to communities that they call forward bills through home. This issue is of parcommittees moves ticular importance to our Dan Fox quickly and is already community in light of the well underway. As a member of recent closing of the Rosenthal the Transportation Committee, Hospice in Stamford. Environment Committee and The Transportation Regulations Review Committee Committee is studying and there are a number of very debating the prospect of permitimportant bills coming out of ting municipalities to install redthese three committees that light cameras in intersections. It could generate significant atten- seems that a good portion of the tion over the coming weeks. debate on this issue is whether The Regulations Review the purpose for the cameras is Committee reviews regulations to increase safety in busy interproposed by state agencies and is sections or rather to generate to approve the regulations before revenue for the municipalities. such regulations are implement- The Committee is also pursuing ed. One issue hopefully coming legislation providing increased before the Regulations Review safety to pedestrians using a Committee is the revision of the public way as well as whether regulations pertaining to hospice to expand the jurisdiction of a care. In reviewing the regula- municipal police officer when in tions pertaining to hospice care a neighboring municipality. Governor Malloy is lookthe goal is to make sure that quality and affordable hospice ing to this legislative session care is available to communities as an opportunity to reform Legislative continued 0320BM08B007_15365.indd 7 ity, Connecticut had a true challenge sustaining business growth within its own borders. What is to blame for Connecticut’s ongoing lack of development in the private sector? Small and large business employers alike are quick to point their fingers at Connecticut’s strict regulations and high tax rates as the conspirators standing in the way of economic development. Small businesses have a tendency to be much more affected by these onerous regulations and numerous taxes simply because of their smaller wallets and smaller workforces. The recent job legislation has laid out a clear job creation and development plan to start to repair how the state deals with business. The newly created Small Businesses Express Package established a three-fold support system through a revolving loan fund, job creation incentive program and a job creation matching grant program to help companies keep their doors open and expand employment rolls. So far a diverse group of ten local companies have been awarded this assistance package, including manufacturing companies and retail outlets. Expanding the new job creation tax credit by permitting greater eligibility criteria and by increasing the amount of the credit would afford a break to businesses. Further expansion of the tax credit will make any business eligible to receive tax credits for each new job they create. There is no question that these are tough times. With a 9% unemployment rate, state government needs to make the necessary changes and get down to business about jobs. 10,000 in Stamford to set new hands-only CPR world record – Save the date: Hands for Life® Stamford August 25, 2012 The statistics are alarming. Each year 785,000 Americans suffer from a heart attack and nearly 300,000 of these suffer sudden cardiac arrest at the same time, outside a hospital setting. Less than one in four receives CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) from a bystander, and only about five percent of cardiac arrest victims survive. However, Stamford is working to improve the odds. “The solution,” explains Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia who is leading a new community-wide initiative called Hands for Life Stamford 2012, “is to train more people to provide Hands-Only CPR, so more can be helped instantly, doubling or even tripling their chances for survival.” In addition to saving lives, Hands for Life ® Stamford 2012 plans to break a Guinness world record and create a new one – by training 10,000 or more adult residents from Stamford, Darien and surrounding areas in Hands Only CPR, and in the use of an AED (Automatic External Defibrillator). “The Stamford area community is ideal for this record-breaking event,” Mayor Pavia explains, “We expect a tremendous turnout from residents and commuters alike.” “All area adults over the age of 16 are encouraged to participate in this August 25 event,” says Dr. Thomas Nero, co-director of Hands for Life. “We’re building our registration site now and will begin recruiting soon. For more information now, go to www. handsforlife.org.” The Hands for Life® committee is led by Stamford Mayor Michael Pavia and includes Co-program directors Dr. Thomas Nero, cardiologist and Anne Fountain, Stamford Director of Public Health, Stamford EMS, Stamford Hospital, the Downtown Special Services District, and members of Stamford’s business, educational, and not-for-profit communities. Many sponsors are on board, including Chelsea Piers, which is donating the use of their new Field House. The Silk Touch GO GREEN! Is your lobby dull and uninviting???? Liven it up... With fabulous custom floral displays from “The Silk Touch” Try our rental program... change your pieces seasonally... always fresh and vibrant... The Silk Touch 5 Main Street, Norwalk, CT 06851 • P: 203-855-1916 Stamford Business Outlook • March 20, 2012 • 7 The growth within the small manufacturing sector of Connecticut has proven to be an ongoing struggle over the past few decades. Ironically, Connecticut is also one of the most highly concentrated manufacturing states in the U.S. The Connecticut Economy recently found that small manufactures are approximately 28 percent more numerous in Connecticut than anywhere else in the nation, yet we still appear to be failing to meet the standards that are necessary for growth. The national economic recession has certainly made it difficult for existing small businesses to prosper, but even during better times, such as between 1996 and 2006, Connecticut lost 2.2 percent of its small businesses while the average state in the country saw a 10 percent increase. So, despite a decade of economic prosper- Connecticut’s public school system believing that Connecticut’s economic revival is dependent upon transforming the public school system. The Governor proposed six principles for the General Assembly to focus on: Increase access to high-quality early childhood education; Provide partnership, support and intensive interventions to turn around Connecticut’s lowest performing schools and districts; expand the availability to all types of high-quality school models; foster innovation by removing red tape; ensure Connecticut’s teachers and principals are the very best, receive the right training, preparation and on-going professional supports within a fair personnel system based on effectiveness; and target more resources to districts with the greatest need – tied to accountability and key reforms to foster student learning. The General Assembly will continue to focus upon Connecticut’s economic recovery and our state’s ability to grow and retain jobs. Job creation for our state remains a top priority and we must promote and support legislation that fosters longterm economic growth. 3/29/2012 4:07:01 PM MembersMakingNews Relocation Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www. choycepeterson.com), a commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced the successful conclusion of negotiations for new office space on behalf of PBI (Preferred Brands International), an international manufacturer and marketer of convenience specialty foods under the brand name Tasty Bite (www.tastybite.com). The space at 3 Landmark Square in Stamford totals 5,765 square feet; John Hannigan was the broker for Choyce Peterson. Elections Eric S. Osterberg, partner in the Stamford office of Fox Rothschild LLP, was appointed to a three-year term on the editorial board of the American Intellectual Property Law Association’s AIPLA Quarterly Journal. Osterberg focuses on intellectual property litigation and counseling, general commercial litigation and securities and private equity-related litigation. accessories manufacturer and distributor, Nine West Group. Awards, Grants & Recognition Eastern Land Management, a commercial landscape management company, has earned a coveted Environmental Improvement Award from its industry trade organization, Professional Landcare Network (PLANET). The company was recognized for its innovative waterfall restoration at the headquarters of footware and Pictured front from left: Repeat winners of the new Stamford Downtown marketing banner campaign, Nancy Andersen and Michael Lombardo, partners and art directors of Creative Insight, New Canaan, CT; with Lynne Colatrella, Annette Einhorn, John Ruotolo, and president, Sandy Goldstein of Stamford Downtown Photo by: PaulJohnsonPhotography.com Creative Insight, LLC, a design agency and leading force behind many of Fairfield County’s most dynamic brand images, is the repeat winner of the Stamford Downtown street banner marketing campaign, “This is The SAVE MONEY WITH HEALTH NET MEDICARE PLANS 8 • March 20, 2012 • Stamford Business Outlook With health care costs on the rise, CIT has partnered with Health Net to offer quality, comprehensive and affordable Medicare plans for your Medicare eligible active employees and retirees. 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CT_2009_005 CT53778 6017952 0320BM08B008_16641.indd 8 The Women’s Business Development Council (WBDC) recently graduated nine students from the Kauffmann Foundation’s curriculum, Fast Trac, a 9-week entrepreneurial development program. A nonprofit organization, WBDC provides entrepreneurial training and financial education for women in Connecticut. DOMUS a nopnprofit, which operates a variety of educational, residential and community programs for vulnerable youth, announced a $500,000, fiveyear commitment from Tow Foundation as well as a dollarfor-dollar match, for the first two years, by Geneva-based Trafigura Foundation. The funding will support the Trafigura Work & Learn Business Center, a paid training and employment program for disadvantaged youth, and allows the program to more than double the number of participants it serves annually. Trafigura tapped Green Up, a leading industry resource of the world’s most innovative green designs and technologies, to provide the expertise for their new and exciting Work & Learn Business Center venture. Colin Coogan, Founder and CEO of Green UP, donated the design, materials and labor to construct the Tow Atrium, an indoor greenhouse ingeniously created from an unused second floor middle school corridor. The Tow Atrium serves as an indoor organic agricultural classroom, complete with self-watering living walls, hydroponic and aeroponic growing mediums and special lighting. As part of their program, students of Trafigura’s Work & Learn Business Center will learn how to plant, grow, harvest, prepare, cook, and serve their own produce to the middle school students who share the same school building. Middle school students will enjoy the benefits of all of the organically grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs from newly designed cafeteria menus. Noel Robin, a physician with Stamford Hospital, has been named Teacher of the Year by the Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons’ Class of 2013. He was selected by members of that class to receive their Outstanding Teacher Award because he was identified as the single educator whom they felt influenced them the most across all four years of their education. The WorkPlace received a $200,000 grant from the AARP Foundation to address the specific needs of older, unemployed workers. With the addition of AARP funds to their Platform to Employment (P2E) program they will be able to and serve 99ers who are 50+ of age. P2E is an initiative never before attempted by a workforce investment board. Place!” The winning banners, designed by Creative partners Michael Lombardo and Nancy Andersen, capture the many aspects of the area for living, working and playing with innovative illustrations and graphics that fully engage the viewer. Michael J. Cacace from the law firm of Cacace Tusch & Santagata has been named “Stamford Best Lawyers Real Estate Lawyer of the Year” for 2012 by Best Lawyers, a peerreview publication in the legal profession. David Fiore was honored with the 2011 “Legacy Award” by the March of Dimes Connecticut chapter at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Spirit of Giving Celebration. OperationsInc (www. OperationsInc.com), a leading human resources consulting firm based in Stamford, announces the 11th Anniversary since the organization’s inception. January 22nd, 2012 marked the milestone for the leading human resources consulting firm, which has flourished to a team of 33 HR professionals supporting over 600 clients throughout the US. Stepping Stones Museum for Children has received a $50,000 grant from Purdue Pharma L.P. to support its traveling mini exhibits. The grant also paid for the purchase of a Sprinter van to transport the museum’s exhibits to schools, libraries and youthserving organization throughout Connecticut. New Neighborhoods Inc. (NNI) has received a $10,000 grant from Wells Fargo. The rant will support NNI’s ongoing work to produce and preserve critically needed affordable rental and ownership housing in communities across Fairfield County. Sacred Heart University has been awarded a $45,000 grant from the Chicago Mercantile Exchange Group Foundation to support reseerach by its economics and finance professors. The funds will enable professors to help financial market participants better understand financial futures behavior and, in turn, better manager financial risks. Appointments & New Positions Webster Bank make the following announcements. Martin H. Anderson has been promoted to senior vice president for middle-market banking. Kim Syrop has been promoted to senior vice president, fraud mitigation and loss management. Anthony Denniston has been promoted to senior vice president, employee relations for Webster Bank. Bregman & Company, P.C. an accounting firm, is pleased to announce the promotion of Eliot M. Bassin to partner. Mr. Bassin’s promotion is a unique move for this family owned firm as it represents the first time a non-Bregman will share the helm since the company’s founding. Geoffrey M. Goodale has joined the laws firm of Shipman & Goodwin L.L.P. as a partner. 3/29/2012 4:07:35 PM WelcomeNewMembers Access Consulting Arun Sinha, President 31 Island Heights Cir, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 975-2950 accessconsultinginc.com [email protected] Marketing Communications Clear, persuasive copywriting for technical and consumer ads, web pages, brochures, case studies, articles and other marketing communication materials. Advanced Chiropractic & Wellness LLC Dr. Brian Yomtov, DC,CAACP 47 Oak St, #270, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 316-8477 drbrianyomtov.com [email protected] Chiropractors Professional guidance with advanced cost effective alternatives to healthcare. An integrated advanced system which includes chiropractic, acupuncture, nutrition & exercise. Aitoro Appliances Tony Aitoro, Owner 401 Westport Ave, Norwalk CT 06851 (203) 847-2471 aitoro.com, [email protected] Appliances Alarm Doctor Scott Palmer, Owner 59 Rutz St, Stamford CT 06906 (203) 348-2847 alarmdoctor.net [email protected] Security Security systems, standby generators and locksmith. Alfaro Landscaping Milton Alfaro, Owner 14 Stark Pl, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 346-9620 [email protected] Landscaping All of Us Air! Inc. Steven T. Carpenter 59 Old Barn Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 353-8703 [email protected] Heating-Air Conditioning Service & Installation AlmostFamily Rita Johnson, In-Home Program Director 5 Hillandale Ave, #100 Stamford CT 06902, (203) 969-0101 almostfamily.com [email protected] Homecare Agency Archetype Interiors Juanita Strassfield, Owner 11 Shipley Dr Courtland Manor NY 10567 (914) 736-0428 archetypeinteriors.com [email protected] Interior Designers Window treatments/ draperies, swags, valances, cornices/ Hunter Douglas auth dealer / interior design / color consultant Aspect Property Management Jason Kinard, Managing Partner 1258 Bedford St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 348-8200 aspectpropertymanagement.com [email protected] Property Management 0320BM08B009_16646.indd 9 Avanti Millennium Limousine LTD Helen Pesce 31 Edgewood Ave, Greenwich CT 06830 (203)861-4205 avantimillenium.com [email protected] Limousine Service - Transportation Service Beldotti Bakery Chris Beldotti 605 Newfield Ave, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 348-9029 [email protected] Bakery A full line retail and wholesale bakery selling breads, cakes, pastries, cakes, cookies, etc., owned and operated by the Beldotti family since 1985. We also own a wholesale artisan bread bakery in Port Chester, NY. Beyond IT Support James Burshstein, Owner 64 Wall St, #301, Norwalk CT 06850 (203) 252-2230 Ext:4064 .cncs-us.com [email protected] Technology A true partnership that includes total IT support and management for your business, focusing on efficiency, reliability and security. Bluestreak Sports Training Josh Dionne, Marketing Director 80 Largo Dr, Stamford CT 06907 (203) 969-2583 bluestreakst.com [email protected] Health & Fitness Bluestreak specializes in speed, agility, quickness and strength training. We will take your game to the next level! Tested, proven, guaranteed. Ask about our new Corporate Team Building Program, aimed to take your team to the next level. Brandworks Peter Heinz 65 High Ridge Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 329-3323 [email protected] Marketing- Creative Services Brandworks specializes in online marketing optimization from email though location based marketing. Brandworks is a Constant Contact business partner. Breast Cancer Alliance Yonni Wattenmaker, Executive Director 48 Maple Ave, Greenwich CT 06830 (203) 861-0014 breastcanceralliance.org [email protected] Non-Profit Organization The Breast Cancer Alliance funds innovative breast cancer research and promotes breast health through education and outreach. BruCreative Bruce Crilly, Creative Director 21 Glen Ave, Stamford CT 06906 (203) 504-8913 brucreative.com [email protected] Marketing & Graphic Design Design and Marketing consultancy for small to midsize businesses specializing in creating solutions for both corporate and retail clients. buildOn David Sklar, VP Development 777 Long Ridge Rd, Bldg. A, 3rd Fl, Stamford, CT 06905 (203) 961-5041 .buildon.org [email protected] Non-Profit Organization buildOn empowers people and transforms lives by partnering students in our U.S. after school programs with communities in developing countries to build schools. Students also travel with buildOn to developing countries, building schools by putting shovels in dirt and mortar on brick, and helping to break the cycle of poverty, illiteracy and low expectations. Cleanco Maintenance Solutions Michael Lampo, Owner 85 Breckenridge Ave Port Chester NY 10573, (877) 729-9794 cleanco1.com , [email protected] Commercial Janitorial Services & Building Maintenance Providing office cleaning, powerwashing, window cleaning, parking lot maintenance, cleanup as well as a wide range of other janitorial and maintenance services to Fairfield County’s most prestigious companies. Law Offices of Neil A. Burstein Neil Burstein, Attorney 63 Winterberry Cir, Cross River NY 10518 (914) 977-3467 neilburstein.com [email protected] Attorneys CK Business Solutions Colleen King, Owner PO Box 4231, Stamford CT 06907 (203) 667-9230 [email protected] Business Consulting Business to Business CFO Thomas R. Comer 9 Chessor Ln, Wilton CT (203) 981-2620 b2bcfo.com [email protected] Classic Deluxe Dry Cleaners Penny Rallis & Peter Rallis, Owners 543 Hope St, Stamford CT 06907 (203) 324-4536 [email protected] Dry Cleaners, Launderers & Tailors CAFCO Group Cielo Angelica Frascatore, President 37 Rockrimmon Dr, Stamford CT 06903 (203) 274-6988 [email protected] Import/Export Import/export merchant Cavalier Galleries Inc. Ron Cavalier, President 405 Greenwich Ave, Greenwich CT 06830, (203) 869-3664 cavaliergalleries.com [email protected] Art Galleries - Retail Small business operations and set-up, bookkeeping, training, general office assistance and consulting. Family dry cleaners & laundry establishment for over 50 years. Providing home pickup & delivery service, Eco friendly, Tailoring, Fur Storage, Wedding Gown Preservation and Drapery & household cleaning. Coppola Accounting & Income Tax/Starion Energy Tony Coppola, Owner 441 Summer St, Stamford CT 06901 (203) 353-0132 [email protected] Accounting & Tax Services Income Tax - Bookkeeping. Starion Energy - Energy deregulation allows us to lower your electric bill - residential or commercial. Ask us about our energy gift to charity program for non-profits. Crab Shell Restaurant Richard E. Gildersleeve, President Stamford Landing, 46 Southfield Ave, Stamford CT 06902, (203) 967-7229 www.crabshell.com [email protected] Restaurants Crab Shell, Stamford’s seafood restaurant on the Stamford Landing Boardwalk with outdoor patio called The Crab Shack & a Marina as well. Creative Group, LLC Jon Landers, Owner 194 Lake Place South, Danbury CT 06810 (203) 648-9921 www.creativegroupllc.com [email protected] Graphic Design/Advertising Print & Web We offer graphic design, packaging design, branding, logos, exhibit booth design for trade shows, marketing for print and web and printing services both small and large format. Culpen & Woods Architects, LLC David Woods, Partner 400 Main St, Stamford CT 06901 (203) 969-1444 Architecture & Interior Design CWA is a Architecture and Interior Design Firm managing projects in historical renovation, club facilities, academic, multi family housing and corporate planning D.A.D. Company Donald Aulenti, Owner 357 Glenbrook Rd, Stamford CT 06906 (203) 504-2739 dadesign.com [email protected] Mechanical Contractor Plumbing and Heating Design & Installation. Commercial, Industrial, Residential Darien Rowayton Bank Brendon Fray, Senior Mortgage Banker 1001 Post Rd, Darien, CT 06820 (203) 669-4148 www.drbankonline.com [email protected] Banks We are a local bank originating Conventional, FHA and Jumbo mortgages as well as commercial mortgages. Diebold Frank Soler, Sr., Account Manager 470 Halstead Ave, Harrison NY 10528 (914) 872-4425 www.diebold.com [email protected] Electronic Security Electronic Security Integrator installing Cameras with Recording Devices, Card Access Systems, Turnstiles and Central Station Monitoring Dushi Marble & Granite Paul Dushi, Owner 12 Largo Dr, Stamford CT 06907 (203) 978-0048 www.dushmg.com [email protected] Kitchen & Bath Countertops East of Ellie Emily Chalk 4 Landmark Sq, 3rd Fl Stamford CT 06901, (203) 979-5758 www.eastofellie.com [email protected] Event Planning Easter Seals Coastal Fairfield County Leslie Chambers, Executive Director of Advancement 733 Summer St, Stamford CT 06901 (203) 313-1522 eastersealscfc.org [email protected] Charity Matchmaking Fern Pessin, President PO Box 1281, Norwalk CT 06854 (203) 524-4735 charitymatchmaker.com [email protected] Event Planning Connecting non-profits and for profits for their mutual benefit and that of the community. Cleaning & Restoration Chelsea Piers Connecticut Erica Schietinger, Vice President, Corporate Communications 1 Blachley Rd, Stamford CT 06902 (213) 336-6870 chelseapiers.com [email protected] Sports & Entertainment Si n c e 1 9 6 3 The facilities will be first-rate in every way and comparable in scope to a college athletic complex. The facility is also unique because everything exists under one roof, making it easy to have multiple children in different programs at the same time. I N C O R P O R AT E D Circulent Marcus Lee, President/CEO 4 St. Johns Pl, Darien CT 06820 (203) 655-2900 circulent.com [email protected] Technology Circulent proactively manages technology for small and mid-sized businesses. Through a fixed monthly cost, Circulent is focused on improving our client productivity and saving money. City Publications Bill Waldorf, Owner 66 High Ridge Rd #146 White Plains NY 10605, (914) 837-8200 citypubfairfield.com [email protected] Marketing & Lead Generation Company We place all our small business clients in front of Rugs • Carpets • Drapery Window Treatments Upholstery • Fabric Wall Panels Grout, Tile & Stone w w w. T R I P L E S C L E A N . c o m Stamford Business Outlook • March 20, 2012 • 9 Heating & Air Conditioning Contractor. Sales, service & installation of residential, commercial and industrial systems. Maintenance Agreements also available A full-service property management company whose mission is to take on the time-consuming burdens of property ownership, and help to increase your financial return and enjoyment of your real estate investment. 50,000 affluent Southern Fairfield County Homeowners using both direct mailings and digital media 3/29/2012 4:07:42 PM Non-Profit Organization Easter Seals Coastal Fairfield County, Connecticut provides exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities for special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities. Edward Jones Evan Lister, Financial Advisor 30 Buxton Farm Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 595-9288 edwardjones.com [email protected] Financial Advisors eRichards Consulting, LLC Mark J. Richards, CEO 4 Corporate Dr, #390, Shelton CT 06484 (203) 944-0816 e-richards.com [email protected] Staffing & Recruiting eRichards offers: technology staffing, project managment and advisory service. Staffing covers technology and manufacturing. Staffing includes contract and permanent positions. Help companies drive revenue to their web sites. Everything IT, Inc Frederic Fishman, Owner 304 Main Ave, #350, Norwalk CT 06851 (203) 858-3984 everythingit.biz [email protected] Computer Consulting Providing computer & network consulting support, sales, & services including hosted email & online backup to small businesses in Fairfield County. EVTV Michael Macari, President/Supervising Producer 1200 High Ridge Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 359-8777 evtv.net [email protected] Video Production The areas leading video production and communications producers since 1984. Full service corporate video, marketing, commercial, webcast, live events, emailable presentations and web video producers. 10 • March 20, 2012 • Stamford Business Outlook exhale Harbor Point Paula Andrews 2200 Atlantic St, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 391-5350 .exhalespa.com [email protected] Spa Since it’s inception in 2003, Exhale has earned a position as the leading lifestyle brand in the Spa and Wellness space. Exhale offers unparalleled transformational Mind/Body programs within an inspiring setting. Fairfield Food Services Mark Berlin, President PO Box 320502, Fairfield CT 06825 (203) 943-9987 [email protected] Food Service We sell beef, lamb, veal, and poultry to restaurants and hotels in the New York and Connecticut area. Farrah’s Jewelry Farrah Fattahi, Owner 3034 Summer St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 357-1151 [email protected] Jewelers Fordham School of Professional & Continuing Studies Glenn S. Berman,Director of Admissions 400 Westchester Ave West Harrison NY 10604, (914) 367-3322 pcs.fordham.edu [email protected] Colleges/Universities Fordham PCS assists adult students to begin or complete their bachelor’s degree. Campuses in NYC, the Bronx and Westchester. 0320BM08B010_16651.indd 10 FP Clark Associates Mike Galante 41 Ruane St, Fairfield CT 06824 (203) 255-3100 [email protected] Traffic and Transportation Engineering Integrated Print Solutions Phil Palmieri 69 Behham Ave, Bridgeport CT 06605 (203) 330-0200 [email protected] Printing & Marketing Services Clark Associates is a traffic engineering and land planning consulting firm providing services to municipalities and developers throughout Connecticut, New York, the Hudson Valley and Long Island. IPS is a l:l marketing provider offering complete cross media campaign development including, purls, e-mail marketing and personalized print campaigns. Law Office of Joseph Gasparrini Joseph C. Gasparrini, Attorney at Law 20 Brinckerhoff Ave, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 968-8830 josephgasparrini.com [email protected] Attorneys I am an attorney, concentrating in commercial and residential real estate; business law and transactions, wills trusts and probate. Girl Scouts of Connecticut Kari Kaplan, Director of Membership Services 529 Danbury Rd, Wilton CT 06897 (203) 762-5557 gsofct.org [email protected] Non-Profit Organization Girl Scouts of Connecticut is the leading girl empowerment organization dedicated to lifelong success through values based leadership development and personal growth. Green Up Colin Coogan, Owner 82 Myrtle Ave, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 595-5099 greenupgroup.com [email protected] Landscape Design/Green Living/ Agricultural Center Green Up is a plant based design and urban agriculture center. We offer Living Walls, MOSStiles, Biofilters, design and more. Greenwich Diva Productions Claudette Lewis-Rothman, President 15 Putnam Ave, #377 Greenwich CT 06831, (203) 536-3607 greenwichdiva.com [email protected] On-line news media that covers news from around world. We report on news that “traditional” news media either refuses to cover or gives limited coverage to. We have published one book, “Greenwich Secrets” and we are currently working on another novel and TV shows. Hagendoorn & Emond Insurance Inc. Bruce Emond, Principal 1011 High Ridge Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 324-1000 heinsurance.com [email protected] Independent Insurance Agency Personal and Commercial, Life & Health insurance, including auto, home valuables and small businesses. Hand & Stone Massage & Facial Spa Pamela Wallace 2333 Summer St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 325-4000 handandstone.com/spa/connecticut/ stamford [email protected] Spa Hand & Stone is a membership-based spa offering massage, facials and waxing affordably. High Ridge Citgo Patty Joseph 939 High Ridge Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 322-3118 Gas Station A full service gas station with onsite professional mechanic certified in transmissions. J.H. Cohn, LLP Brian Kavanagh, Senior Manager 1177 Summer St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 399-1900 [email protected] Accounting and Consulting Firm Leading provider of accounting, audit, tax, and business consulting services. Jackson Solutions Karen Jackson, President 148 Mansfield Ave, Darien CT 06820 (203) 979-0631 jacksonsolutions.com [email protected] Business Consulting Sales & Growth Advisors to CEO’s of small to mid-size businesses. Janet Zimmer Photography Janet Zimmer, Owner 143 Overbrook, Stamford CT 06906 (203) 614-9466 zimmerphotography.com janet.zimmer@zimmerphotography. com Photographer Location photography services for businesses and individuals. Corporate & private events, business headshots, and pet & family portraits. Jody Deluca Designs Jody Deluca, Owner 16 Maplewood Pl, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 962-3453 Designs John Videler Photography John Videler, Owner 138 South Compo Rd, Westport CT 06880 (203) 226-9223 [email protected] Photographer Law Offices of Mark Katz Mark Katz, Esq., Attorney at Law 196 North St, Stamford CT 06901 (203) 357-9292 [email protected] Attorneys I specialize in Criminal, Divorce Litigation and General Practice Law. Kosh Glenn Karow, Owner 108 Prospect St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 614-8777 itskosh.com [email protected] Restaurants Laser Cosmetica Raven Valdes, Events Coordinator 20 W 20th Street, #902 New York NY, (914) 629-2035 lasercosmetica.com [email protected] Laser Cosmetics The leading provider of laser services in the area. We have been in practice for ten years and provide safe, effective results. Liquid Capital Partners Bob Colgan, Managing Partners 265 Post Road West, Westport CT 06880 (203) 454-1484 liquidcapitalpartners.com [email protected] Finance Liquid Capital Partners underwrites loans for small businesses, focusing on AR factoring and purchase order/trade financing, providing quick cash for working capital. Mackey & Guasco Maureen Mackey, Principal 2425 Post Rd, Southport CT 06890 (203) 655-1165 mackeyandguasco.com [email protected] Staffing & Human Resource Solutions Full service recruiting firm that provides HR Contract Services, Direct Hire Placements and Temporary Services specializing in the areas of Human Resources, Office Administration, Marketing and Accounting. Matsuri Japanese Fusion Kenny Ming, Partner 390 Post Rd, Darien CT 06820 (203) 655-4999 matsuricuisine.com [email protected] Restaurants Media Horizons Tom Reynolds, Senior Vice President 40 Richards Ave, Norwalk CT 06854 (203) 857-0770 [email protected] Advertising Media Spa Dan Goodfriend 56 Locust Ave, Rye NY 10580 (914) 921-3200 mediaspa.com [email protected] Web Design & Development Mingolello & Hayes Architects, P.C. R. Neil Hayes, Partner 90 Huntington St, Shelton CT 06484 (203) 925-1991 Ext: 2 MandHarchitects.com Architects Full Architectural Services - Corporate, Commercial, Residential, Interiors - Since 1986. My Executive Career Coach Linda M. Valkenburgh MS, CCMC, CJSS Owner & Certified Executive Career Coach 700 Fairfield Avenue, #101 Stamford CT 06902, (203) 323-9977 myexecutivecareercoach.com [email protected] Career Coaching, Executive Job Search Training Business We provide one to one strategic career coaching and job search strategies for today’s challenging job market. Natural Essence Company, LLC Michelle Matheis, M.A. Certified Aromatherapist, Certified Wellness Coach & Organic Skincare Consultant PO Box 112066, Stamford CT 06911 (800) 590-4305 naturalessencecompany.com [email protected] Skincare and Wellness Online Wellness Coaching Services; Organic & Wellness Shop. Independent distributor of Neal’s Yard Remedies, Young Living and Miessence. Nick Aivalis Architects Nick Aivalis, Principal, AIA 66 Fourth St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 359-4441 [email protected] Architects Established in 1988, specializing in residential, commercial and interiors. Our mission, Through Architecture, we continually strive to improve and shape the environment and provide sound, creative solutions while emphasizing personal service to our clients. Nordic Stove & Fireplace Center, Inc. Scott Robinson, President Martha Robinson, Vice President 220 Harvard Ave, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 406-9881 nordicstoveandfireplace.com [email protected] Fireplaces Retail Behavioral Health/Psychiatric Nordic Stove & Fireplace Center: Your source for quality products and expert advice for over 30 years. Everything for the Hearth! Ridgeway Pizza Nick Vukel, Owner 2802 Summer St, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 323-7777 [email protected] Restaurants North American Bancard William Liberis 615 Westover Rd, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 357-9909 billliberis.com [email protected] Merchant Services North American Bancard is an industry leader in secure credit card processing, cash flow management and risk mitigation. Ovation Payroll Jim Ferreira, District Sales Manager 68 Southfield Dr, #100, Stamford CT 06902, (203) 530-3512 ovationpayroll.com [email protected] Payroll Processing Ovation offers a comprehensive payroll service with “Real Time” processing. Full tax service, direct deposit, time & attendance, HR, Worker’s Comp “pay go” and 401k integration. Petal and Leaf Floral Events Lisa Tatosian, Owner 110 Wild Duck Rd, Stamford CT 06903 (203) 921-5196 petalandleafevents.com [email protected] Florists Piatto Osteria LLC Luciano Magliulo, Chef Owner 245 Hope St, Stamford CT 06906 (203) 504-8815 piattostamford.com [email protected] Restaurants The menu is Modern Authentic Italian Cuisine with the finest and freshest products Chef Luciano has found from all over Italy. As before, Chef Luciano will have only the finest wines and liquors available to enjoy with these master creations. In addition to our dining room, there is also a private room which can be used to host your special party or event. Posh Nails & Spa Kenny Ming, Owner 860 High Ridge Rd, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 322-5883 www.posh-nail.com [email protected] Nail Salon Get pampered with the ultimate spa experience at Posh Nails. Enjoy manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing massages and much more. Prince & Cotler, LLC Robin Cotler, Attorney/Associate One Atlantic St, 7th Floor Stamford CT 06901, (203) 977-3700 wendyprince.com [email protected] Divorce Law We are a law firm specializing in divorce law. We offer economical consulting, mediation, and litigation services; we offer free consultations, parking, and evening hours. Print Promowear, LLC Donald Richner, President 201 Harvard Avenue, #3, Stamford CT 06902, (203) 504-2858 printpromowear.com [email protected] Embroidery & Screen Printing Custom T-Shirts, Sweats, other garments, and promotional items. Screen printing and embroidery. Recovery and Health Source, LLC Charlene Milkey, Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner 143 Hoyt St, 4B, Stamford CT 06905 (203) 304-5165 [email protected] Treatment of behavioral/mental health problems of children and adults (including medication management) Italian Restaurant with Pizza Delivery and Pickup. We do catering. Free delivery in Stamford. Rizzuto’s Italian Kitchen & Bar Bill Rizzuto, Owner 1980 West Main St, Stamford CT 06902 (203) 324-5900 rizzutos.com [email protected] Restaurants Rizzuto’s Italian Kitchen is the fourth installment of Bill Rizzuto’s popular brand of casual Italian dining offering a fun and lively atmosphere. Other locations in Bethel, Westport, West Harford. Ruby Media Group Kristen Ruby, President 25 E. Putnam Green, Greenwich CT 06830, (914) 417-1003 rubymediagroup.com [email protected] Public Relations Ruby Media Group is a premiere Public Relations and Social Media Agency serving Westchester and Fairfield County. Rudy’s Executive Transportation Lou Dominick, Credit Manager 85 Old Long Ridge Rd, Stamford CT 06903, (203) 609-8000 gorudy.com [email protected] Limousine Service Rudy’s, established in 1956, is a premier executive transportation service that provides reliable superior service to the business community. Salon Shahin Shermin Farzm, Owner 66 Broad St, Stamford CT 06901 (203) 323-7256 salonshahin.com [email protected] Beauty Salon Full service hair salon since 1994, downstairs at salon full spa services Seasons Too LTD. Joseph A. Soave, Vice President 836 Post Rd, Darien CT 06820 (203) 655-8444 seasonstoo.com [email protected] Furniture/Home Furnishings/Bedding Outdoor furniture retailer - accessories for outdoor living holiday shop Sky Blue Limousine Maria Vaillant 37 Ledgewood Dr, Norwalk CT 06850 (203) 621-2221 [email protected] Limousine Service We offer VIP service. Our Limo Service extends to NY, NJ, PA, CT, MA and all the Airports. We offer town cars, SUV, stretch limo, luxury bus, Mercedes Benz and vans. Open 24 hrs. a day/7 days a week all year long. Make reservations by phone or email. If you are consistent Client we make sure you get a great discount or sometimes Free when you travel with family. Smith Party Rentals Michael Stelluti, Owner 133 Mason St, Greenwich CT 06830 (203) 869-9315 smithpartyrentals.com [email protected] Party Rentals/Special Events Sportsplex Andre Pounds, Membership Director 49 Brown House Road 3/29/2012 4:07:57 PM Junior Achievement of Southwest Connecticut When: Saturday, April 21, 2012 Time: Two shifts available: 1–3 p.m. or 4–6 p.m. Where: AMF Rip Van Winkle Lanes in Norwalk Cost: $20/Bowler registration fee (covers cost of lane and shoes) $100 pledge minimum per bowler Team size: 5–6 people per team For more information please call Karen Meizels at (203) 854-1700 * Bowlers raising the minimum are eligible for door prizes 0320BM08B011_16654.indd 11 Stamford Business Outlook • March 20, 2012 • 11 es z i r P es Door z i r P n!-* is DoEovreyr y M e 5 t r inu Ev 5eM * utes! 3/29/2012 4:08:15 PM Stamford CT 06902 (203) 358-0066 sportsplex-ct.com apounds@sportsplex-ct. com Health & Fitness Clubs Health club with all of the amenities. Including: Group ex, Fitness, Squash, Massage, Salt pure pool, PT, more Stamford Animal Rescue (STAR) Heather Scutti, Executive Director PO Box 3035, Stamford CT 06905, (203) 667-0504 stamfordanimalrescue.org heather@stamfordanimalrescue. org Animal Welfare Stamford Animal Rescue (STAR) provides medical care, temporary homes, food and emergency shelter to pets whose caretakers are in economic hardship. Stamford Ford Lincoln Dominic Franchella, Owner/ President 212 Magee Ave Stamford CT 06902 (203) 357-0357 stamfordfordford.com [email protected] Automobile Dealers Stamford Ford Lincoln sells new Ford and Lincoln vehicles as well as many pre-owned makes & models. Also service all makes & models. 12 • March 20, 2012 • Stamford Business Outlook Stamford Hyundai Andrew Shapiro, Owner 85 Magee Ave Stamford CT 06902 (203) 326-5740 stamfordhyundai.com Automobile Sales & Service Staples Copy & Print Katherine Cavanaugh, Account Manager 2299 Summer St Stamford CT 06905 (917) 214-6536 staples.com katherine.cavanaugh@ staples.com Printing/Marketing Support Stark Office Suites Ben Blumberg, Vice President 243 Tresser Blvd, 17th Floor Stamford CT 06901 (203) 355-3650 starkofficesuites.com [email protected] Office Space/ Executive Suites/ Virtual Office Premium Turn-key office space for professionals rented on a full-time and virtual basis. Located at the top of the Stamford Marriott Hotel & Spa. START Now! Christopher Meek, Chairman 90 Fairfield Ave Stamford CT 06902 (203) 832-2005 startnowct.org [email protected] Non-Profit Organization START Now! helps individuals and families become self sufficient by educating them and providing them with the support and opportunities available in society and allowing them to become thriving members of the community. Station Eats Nicholas Type, Co-Owner 3 Landmark Sq 0320BM08B012_16657.indd 12 Stamford CT 06901 (203) 588-0960 stationeats.com [email protected] Restaurants CT based fast casual hamburger & hot dog restaurant using organic, organically raised, hormone/antibiotic free ingredients. Success Aligned Marketing Katherine Saunders (203) 274-3899 successalignedmarketing.com successalignedmarketing@ gmail.com Marketing/Public Relations Mobile and Internet Marketing services that set viral strategy, improve Google rank, increase traffic, and kick social media into gear. Mobilize your business. Summer Street Deli Denise Aivalis, Owner 1410 Summer St, Stamford CT 06905, (203) 325-9636 [email protected] Delicatessens, Pizza & Catering Family run deli/pizza since 1984 serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Restaurant seats 65 people. We cater and have parties, business meetings on site. Service & quality for our customer is our #1 priority Sushi Village Caterer Charlie Lim, Owner PO Box 113135, Stamford CT 06911, (203) 280-3999 www.sushicaterer.com [email protected] Caterers On-site Sushi Chef Service, Specialized Packaged Sushi and Party Platters For restaurants, cafeterias, markets, caterers, hotels, clubs and private parties Systems and Services, LLC Juan Carlos Castano, President 1232 Bedford St #2B Stamford CT 06905 [email protected] Audio Visual Services T.R. Molgano Landscaping Inc. T. R. Molgano 11 Leonard St, Stamford CT (203) 323-2325 [email protected] Landscaping Full service residential and commercial landscaping contractor since 1986. Licensed with the CT. Dept. of Environmental Protection to treat ornamentals and turf and Licensed with the Dept. of Consumer Protection as a Home Improvement Contractor. Tasik Financial Strategies LLC Christopher M. Tasik, Managing Director 1258 Bedford St, Stamford CT 06905, (203) 653-1925 www.tasikfinancial.com [email protected] Financial Planning & Wealth Management Fee based financial planning & investment management firm providing advice and strategies to assist you in achieving business and personal goals. Taylor & Fedor Attorneys at Law Laurel Fedor, Esq., Partner 215 Main St, #300 Westport CT 06880 (203) 227-9328 www.taylorfedor.com [email protected] Attorneys Full service law firm, offices in Westport, Old Greenwich and Fairfield. Focus is family, immigration, litigation. FRESH BANKING For 160 years, First County Bank has been operating under a set of guiding principles that have been core to our philosophy and success. These are the principles that have kept us financially strong and committed to helping local businesses. This stability-minded philosophy of “doing what’s right” is what makes our approach to banking fresh. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, we offer a comprehensive range of business banking services: For more information, or to discuss how we can help your business select the right ingredients for success call Gene Schreiner, Vice President, Business Banking at 203.462.4208. • Commercial Loans and Lines of Credit • Commercial Mortgages • Cash Management Services • Business Checking • Money Market Savings Accounts • Business Check Cards and Credit Cards • Online and Telephone Banking Services • Employee Banking Services STA M FO R D I NORWALK ©2012 First County Bank. FIRST COUNTY BANK, I DARIEN First County Bank, and the Taste “fresh banking” for yourself. I GREENWICH I NEW logo are registered trademarks of First County Bank. CANAAN I WESTPORT Member FDIC 3/29/2012 4:08:30 PM