3rd Quarter 2011 - Jersey Shore Chamber of Commerce

Message From the President
Dear Members,
As our very wet summer season ends,
it appears that many business and
homeowners were affected in some way
from all the rain and historical flooding that
occurred throughout Monmouth and Ocean
Counties and the rest of the state. Despite
the inclement weather, many businesses are
rebounding and flourishing in our
communities. To reflect on 2011, the Chamber has actually done rather
well during the stormy fiscal year, membership is up and many new faces
can be seen at our events.
As we continue this fall season, I’d like to mention that our SMCC
Coffee Connector business networking event held at Perkins Restaurant on
Route 35 every Wednesday has also grown substantially. So, be sure to
join us every Wednesday from 8am to 9:30 AM for a very casual open
networking environment featuring a Spot Light Speaker and of course, lots
of coffee and breakfast! Please contact Evelyn Mars (Executive Director)
for details.
As the end of the year approaches in December, be sure to mark your
calendars for our annual Holiday Gala event being held at Barlow’s from
5:30pm to 8:30pm on December 8th.
In closing, I look forward to seeing you at one of these events and as
always, I thank you for your continued support and dedication to the
Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce.
Your President,
Jim Dallas
Post Office Box 1305 · Wall, (J 07719-1305 · 2510 Belmar Blvd. · Unit 1-20 · Wall (J 07719
Phone: 732-280-8800 · Fax: 732-280-8505 · [email protected] · www.SMCConline.org
Editors: Evelyn Mars; & Christine Collier
Fall2011 – Volume 27 Number 3
OFFICERS
Jim Dallas
Envirotactics
SMCC President
Adam Puharic
Danskin Insurance Agency
SMCC 1st Vice President
Denise Wegeman, MSW, LCSW
SMCC 2nd Vice President
Jack Costello
Chadwick Financial Group
SMCC Treasurer
Allison Wilson
OceanFirst Bank
Secretary
Dana Gangemi
WayComm Consulting
Past President
STAFF
Evelyn Mars
SMCC Executive Director
Christine Collier
Office Coordinator
DIRECTORS
Kathie Adams
Manasquan Savings Bank
Mark Balsam
Investors Bank
Tom Cardinale
EisnerAmper, LLP
(ancy Conte
Coldwell Banker
Linda Hertler
TD Bank
Bernie Marciniak
The UPS Store
Pat Mayer
Diane Turton, Realtors
Jacqueline McGowan
Attorney
Joseph Milano
The Milano Financial Group/,MF,
Dennis O’Brien
Coastal Financial Advisors, Inc.
John Spottke
C & A Financial
Lauren Stroin
HarborPoint Bancard Corp.
Linda Talbot
Central Jersey Bank
Kristine Zulewski
Manasquan Savings Bank
The “Seeping” Truth about Flooded Basement Coverage on Homeowners Insurance
debatable) does not make economic sense for me to purchase a flood
policy. However, to protect the work I have done in the basement,
By now, I am sure most of you have heard of a little rain storm that
this sump pump failure coverage gives me a limited form of this
passed our way on August 28th, 2011 named Hurricane Irene. If you,
protection,
assuming the water might rise only through my sump
like so many of my customers and friends, enjoy home ownership by
pump well.
finishing your basements and making them into Man or Woman
3.
This
coverage
is
usually
limited. Typically, carriers assign a
Caves – you probably feared or suffered this storm worst than most.
separate deductible and limit the amount you can recover to $5,000.
Keep this in mind should you start work on a basement project this
Because of the torrential downpours of rain, water tables rose, and
year.
If you spend money on building materials in an area prone to
sump pump-equipped basements were the most at-risk assets during
rising
ground water, insurance might not be adequate to repair and
Irene. Many people suffered water losses to their basements once
restore
your
work. The simple truth is that some homes might choose
sump pumps failed as a result of power failure. I’ve heard countless
to
forgo
the expensive bars and entertainment centers in their
tales from new customers that their previous agents recommended
basements
if
the homeowners knew that every 5 to 10 years, a loss
against filing for a claim. Others received the bad news that there was
might
occur
that only provides limited recovery from insurance
no coverage for this type of claim.
carriers.
4.
The
sump
pump
must
fail. If you have a well, but no pump,
The type of loss described above can usually find coverage under a
or
if
you
have
neither,
you
have
no coverage under this endorsement.
section entitled “Water/Sewer back up and Sump Pump Failure.”
Similarly,
some
carriers
pay
for
failure due to power outage, and
Understanding this coverage, and knowing how your specific policy
IMPORTANTLY,
others do not.
responds to this type of claim can end up saving you thousands in this
type of disaster recovery.
The best advice is having an agent who takes the time to explain this
Below is a general summary of the type of coverage available for this coverage to you, and helps you to understand the limitations of your
policy. I happen to know one.
form of loss, and some corrections and misconceptions about what is
By Adam Puharic, Danskin Insurance Agency
covered and what is not:
1.
Homeowners insurance excludes all floods. This is
technically correct. Insurance terminology defines a flood as a
seeping, flowing, rising body of water. Broken pipes in the upstairs
bath is NOT a flood. Wind-driven rain that pushes water through
sofits and fascia of siding is NOT a Flood event. If the water in your
basement did not come from the sump pump well, or if you do not
have a working sump pump well – this loss is probably not covered.
2.
Homeowners insurance carriers created the sump pump
failure coverage as an efficient way of buying back a tiny bit of this
coverage. I live high on a hill in Wall twp. It probably (though it is
Adam Puharic
Commercial Insurance Lines, Danskin Agency
1937 Highway 35, Wall Township, (ew Jersey 07719
PO Box 285, Spring Lake, (ew Jersey 07762
P: (732) 449-3800
F: (732) 974-2065
C: (732) 404-7764
Let me help you make good insurance decisions.
ADVERTISE ON www.SMCConline.org!
(EW LOWER PRICES!
The Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce web site was
recently redesigned by inVisual New Media Design. The new
Chamber site is full of important information about upcoming
Chamber events, news and town information. There is a complete
member directory where businesses can be located alphabetically or
by category. We are offering all of our members exclusive
advertising opportunities on the web site. The business listings were
created using the information the Chamber had on file and include
business name, contact information, address, phone, fax, email, web
address, hours and a general description. If you would like to update
your listing or inquire about the many advertising opportunities
available on the web site, contact Rachel at [email protected].
Also, contact us for all of your advertising opportunities.
For more detailed info visit
www.southernmonmouthchamber.com/advertise.asp
2
Rate Sheet:
Southern Monmouth Chamber of
Commerce Website (Smcconline.org)
**Generating over 100,000 hits a year
For the Year:
$250: Banner Ad
$350: Sponsorship
$600: Menu Page
$650: Jump Screen, only one per business
category. Available! Act fast!
$50 for two weeks Front Page Ad
**All graphic design is included in price if
needed
Also available: One-time fee
$80: Logo or picture upgrade added to
your business listing
$100: Logo and picture added to your
business listing
9 WAYS TO GENERATE SALES ON YOUR WEBSITE GUIDE
Featuring the exclusive content packed informational series designed exclusively for members of the Southern
Monmouth Chamber of Commerce. Over the next three newsletters you will see three new articles in each issue,
based on Internet sales and Marketing topics.
What’s in it for you? More Sales!
Let’s Begin.
The lifeblood of any online business, regardless of niche or market, is in generating targeted, qualified and consistent
traffic to your websites.
Hence, once targeted quality traffic that is flowing inbound becomes established, your company transforms from an
“expensive interruption advertising” model to an “inbound marketing model.” This saves the company many-many
thousands of dollars on wasted forms of advertising like the yellow pages. In the online world: you the business owner
need to think like gravity would… Attraction.
Without traffic, there’s no possible way for you to monetize your websites, generate profit or build a brand while
saving funds. Further, this is where an inbound marketing footing dominates the marketplace. You Need Traffic!
But before you dive into the meat of this special 9 part guide, I want you to remember one very critical component of a
successful traffic campaign:
Never focus on the quantity of traffic but rather the QUALITY.
“One of the biggest mistakes that beginner and novice
website owners make is in focusing on the amount of traffic
they get, rather than the “Sources” of traffic.” The Source is
the quality indicator.
(ow Offering Flat Fee Debt
Collection Services
“Far too often when I meet a new perspective partner, they
describe their Internet Website as a ”brochure” style site or
something other. Then they go through the levels of mistrust
they have with their web developer. They become very
frustrated by their website and soon resort to giving up. The
sites typically have poor “SALES” performance and are
withering away, thus being buried by the competition.“
Well…
If you would like to access the 3 articles just click this:
wahoo internet sales and marketing.
My name is Brian Schneider and I am the Online Sales Guy.
I operate Wahoo Internet Marketing and I will change things
for a few lucky business owners in the next year. As a highly
skilled Internet Sales and Marketing Professional I partner
with companies to bring growth to their online efforts. Tee
off with a howitzer shot! Boom! Please leave a comment…
Tax Services
Accounting Services
Business Startups
Financial Planning Services
Thanks Brian, The Online Sales Guy!
3
Business After Hours
with Investors Bank
TOP 21 MEMBERSHIP BE(EFITS OF THE SMCC!
COMMU(ITY I(VOLVEME(T
16. Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
17. Community Blood Drive
18. Use of Chamber conference room (by appt.)
19. Support local high school seniors with college
scholarships
20. Osprey Awards honoring area businesses and
community members
21. Free Certificate of Origin for export
(ETWORKI(G
1. Weekly "Coffee Connector" breakfast meetings
2. Informative Quarterly Meetings
3. Sponsor a meeting or event
4. Host a business after hours
5. Annual Golf Outing
6. Quarterly Women in Business meetings
7. And many more opportunities!
ADVERTISI(G/CUSTOMER ACCESS
8. Business referrals from our office
9. Member-to-Member discounts
10. Access to our mailing lists
11. Spotlight your business in local publications
12. Listings in Chamber publications including our area map & guide
13. Free listing and links on our website to yours
14. Annual Business Expo
15. Submit a FREE article for our Chamber newsletter
VISIT
WWW.SMCCO(LI(E.ORG
FOR YOUR APPLICATIO(
& JOI( TODAY!
(ewsletter Ads
Don't miss the opportunity to advertise in SMCC's Southern Exposure.
Member
Prices
. Business Card 2″ x 3 ½″ (per issue)
. Business Card 2″ x 3 ½″ (annual – 4 issues)
. ¼ Page Ad 4 ¼″ x 5 ½″ with ½″ framed border (per issue)
. ¼ Page Ad 4 ¼″ x 5 ½″ with ½″ framed border (annual – 4 issues)
. ½ Page Ad 5 ½″ x 8 ½″ with ½″ framed border (per issue)
. ½ Page Ad 5 ½″ x 8 ½″ with ½″ framed border (annual- 4 issues)
4
$50
$180
$150
$500
$250
$900
(on-Member
Prices
$65
$225
$185
$625
$315
$1125
For More Advertising Information Contact the Chamber Office:
Telephone: 732-280-8800
Fax: 732-280-8505
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: http://www.smcconline.org/
Member-toMember
to-Member
Member-to-Member
Discount
Discount
Our Membership Committee
is launching a "Member-to-Member" Campaign. We would like to
implement and advertise the use of these discounts to SMCC members. We should be aware of the
services we have to offer each other and look INSIDE the Chamber before going to another source.
Please let us know the applicable discounts you wish to offer other members!
Name:_____________________________________________________________________________
Company___________________________________________________________________________
Address:____________________________________________________________________________
Phone:_____________________________________________________________________________
Services:___________________________________________________________________________
A brief description of discount to be offered:________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
Expires:________________________________
Fax: 732-280-8505 Email: [email protected]
WOME I BUSIESS LUCHEO
Mr. Shrimp Seafood, Belmar, was the setting for our 4th quarter Women in Business Social Networking meeting of
2011. The new luncheon format has been a great success; this meeting had over 40 members and guests in attendance.
After the attendees had an opportunity to network and become acquainted with each other, the Chamber’s Board
Member Denise Wegeman, MSW and member Dana Puharic opened the meeting and announced the Chamber’s
upcoming events. Each attendee was then given one minute to formally introduce themselves (both professionally and
personally). The attendees shared invaluable information with the group while providing several details about their
respective businesses.
Keep your eyes on the Chamber calendar and the SMCC website so you won’t miss any of these exciting
networking functions.
Ms. Puharic then handed the floor over to the sponsor of the day, Ms. Stephanie Lambert-Bartner. Ms. Bartner is
a fashion consultant specializing in the beautiful line of clothing and accessories by CAbi. Ms. Bartner shared her tips
for fall fashion and then delighted the attendees with a fashion show. The models were members of the Chamber as
well as guests and with much good cheer, made wonderful models.
Stephanie was able to provide details about each ensemble and the
attendees were able to take a look up close. Ms. Bartner also had a
rack of her CAbi favorites to show and/or purchase. Anyone looking
for an in-home fashion show of their own can find Fashion
Consultant Stephanie Bartner on the Chamber’s website. Ms. Bartner
reminds us how nice it is to shop from home.
Thank you to Vincent Petruziello of Mr. Shrimp Seafood for the
warm hospitality and delicious food. The restaurant was the perfect
venue for our 4th quarter WIBC, with delicious food and attentive
wait staff.
5
2011 Scholarship Fundraising
Despite a thunderstorm in the early evening, our 2011 Scholarship BBQ was a huge success. Bar Anticipation welcomed
the SMCC with plenty of delicious BBQ style food, drinks,
and a fun bar/wait staff. The Chocolate Carousel provided a
delicious cake for a scrumptious dessert. We were served a
tasty, endless cup of Boresha coffee, courtesy of Phil and
Gretchen Melnick of PNG Health Solutions. Bar A’s back
beach bar was set aside especially for the SMCC, giving us
the opportunity to enjoy the summer night, good friends and
great networking.
Our musical entertainment for the evening was The Breeze
107.1. An exhibition of flamboyant dancing was provided by Fred Astaire Dance Studio, as two dancers
gracefully dazzled the guests. The Fred Astaire dancers
had everyone on their feet dancing the night away, a fun
surprise for the guests. Thank you Fred Astaire Dance
Studio for your special appearance.
SMCC members and guests had great time bidding on
the selection of over 60 silent auction items that were generously donated by our members and friends of the SMCC. This
year there was an eclectic range of items. Apparel, jewelry, gourmet food and wines are just a few of the categories represented in this year’s Scholarship Auction.
As the evening closed there were only smiling faces making way to their cars. Our members’ arms were filled with their
winnings and their minds filled with joyful memories of yet
another successful Scholarship BBQ event.
A big thank you to our host Bar Anticipation, our music
provider The Breeze 107.1, and our dessert sponsor The
Chocolate Carousel. Much appreciation goes to Francis Asbury Manor and Envirotactics for sponsoring this wonderful
event. Additionally, thank
you to all who gave of themselves to raise money for our
high school seniors’ scholarships.
We are looking forward to
summer 2012 already!
6
Southern Monmouth Coffee Connector!
Join us every Wednesday morning from 8:00-9:30 am
Perkins, 2027 Highway 35, Wall Township
Start your mornings in a positive and energized manner!
Members: Enjoy networking and breakfast all for $10!
Each week one member will have the floor for 5 minutes to showcase themselves
and their business (at no extra charge!).
Call to reserve your week to showcase your business! 732-280-8800
Guests of the SMCC receive their first breakfast event free,
thereafter cost will be $15.
Registration is not necessary - just wake up and roll in!
Payment may be made by check, cash or credit card.
Leverage Your Membership with the Southern
Monmouth Chamber of Commerce
Here are three ways to leverage your SMCC Membership to better your business and the community.
Membership in the Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce provides your business with powerful tools to market your services, reach potential clients, and foster positive economic development in the communities where you
live and work. Joining the SMCC is about more than attending General Membership Meetings. Here are three hot
tips for making your membership dollars work for you:
1.
Contribute to our newsletter and have your article reach our entire email database..... all for FREE. By writing articles in the quarterly SMCC Southern Exposure Newsletter, your words of wisdom will reach the entire
SMCC email database. This is a surefire way to leverage your membership dollars and market your industry knowhow to a friendly audience that you will meet again. Articles with an awareness or education focus can be forwarded to clients who need your services, providing endless opportunity to work with the existing membership to
reach your ideal customer.
2.
Hosting a "Business After-Hours" is the lowest cost solution for bringing customers through your door. One
of the benefits to SMCC membership is the opportunity to host a "business after-hours" gathering that is broadcast
to members with planning advice provided by the Chamber. There is simply no more inexpensive way to create advertising, broadcast a message, and reach a willing and enthusiastic audience. What would you pay to have 30 - 70
potential customers in front of you at once?
3.
Joining the SMCC allows the Chamber to flourish and provides an important business incubator for startups
and entrepreneurs. Let's face it, the past two years have proven that we all share the same national economy.
Whether your business has 300 employees or you are the "chief cook and bottle washer," a vibrant chamber allows
startups the best opportunity to reach customers, test their business models and grow into success. Your chamber
membership is about more than reaching customers. Even the largest of companies in our area can do their part in
7
supporting the community around them.
Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce 2011 Golf Outing
The 9th Annual Golf Outing for the Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce was another great success. The August 1 day had perfect summer weather,
which underscored the great day of golfing at the spectacular Jumping Brook Country Club’s golf course. A big thank you to Ron Podhirny for the time and hard work
he put into planning this day of golf, fun and good food. Mr. Podhirny and the attentive club staff made sure a good time was had by all.
This year the Chamber had a special reason to celebrate. We had the honor of
being able to donate some of the proceeds of this event to an organization working
to help the children in Uganda achieve a better life. Sylvia’s Children is dedicated to
educating, feeding, clothing, housing and providing health care to orphaned children. Without the help of Sylvia’s Children, most of these children would be living
on the street without an opportunity for an enriched life.
Prior to the golfers heading out to start their round, they were treated to a free
massage from Maria Cermatori’s Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa. Greater
Media NJ WRAT 95.9/Magic 100.1, one of our sponsors provided lively music
through our registration and lunch.
The golfer’s were hoping to win one of the many prizes donated for the holein-one contests. These prizes included the Lakewood BlueClaw’s season tickets for
2011 and a brand new car from George Wall Ford Lincoln. Once again this year
there were no takers. Keep practicing!
After a great day of golf, dinner was served and awards given out. Press
Communications – The Breeze provided music for the evening. There was stiff
competition for winners of the putting, longest drive and closest to the pin contests.
All winners went home with great prizes donated by generous sponsors and chamber
members. The women and men’s first place teams went home with great golf goodies guaranteed to bring their games to the next level. There were was an opportunity
to win door prizes and no one left empty handed. There were goodie bags for all.
A special thank you to our Sponsors! Gold Sponsors: C & A Financial,
Broege, Neumann, Fischer & Shaver and Investors Bank. Silver Sponsors: Birdsall
Services Group, Greater Media WRAT 95.9/Magic 107.1, Human Resource Services of NJ, Matisse Ocean Front Restaurant and Press Communications - The
Breeze 107.1. Longest Drive Sponsor Acre Survey; Putting Green Sponsor Francis
Asbury Manor; Print Sponsor The UPS Store; Design Sponsor Solari Creative; Shirt
Sponsor Initial Impact; Ball Sponsor New Jersey Natural Gas and Gift Sponsor
Ritchie and Page Distributing Co.
Thank you to all of our Hole Sponsors,
members and volunteers who generously donated items for door prizes and time to fill
goodie bags for our golfers.
SEE YOU I( 2012!
Photography by All is Sharp Photography
8
Volleyball Business
(etworking
Fun, networking and a little competitive spirit all joined together to create another successful SMCC event! All the fun was happening on August 4th,
at Bar Anticipation in Lake Como. The Brick Chamber of Commerce and the
Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce joined together at the 2nd Annual
Danskin Insurance Agency Invitational Volleyball Networking Event.
In the heat of the summer on Wednesday, August 4, many Brick and
Southern Monmouth Chamber members, friends and guests gathered to help
raise funds for the charity Michael’s Feat. Michael’s Feat is a non-profit organization with a mission of providing support to families facing a health crisis with their seriously ill newborn.
“Michael's Feat offers families in need direct financial support, overnight bags filled with supplies for hospital stays, furniture and medical equipment, meals, gas cards and, if necessary, respite care”.
Everyone enjoyed appetizers, cocktails and cold beverages compliments
of the Danskin Insurance Agency. Teams quickly formed to enjoy the great
sand courts at Bar A. Spectators gathered to chat, watch and coach from the
sidelines. Gone were the suits and ties of the day; t-shirts and shorts were the
recommended attire for this relaxing and casual atmosphere.
9
HIRI(G A( ARCHITECT IS YOUR BEST I(VESTME(T
In today's housing market more people are choosing to renovate or expand their existing home versus
building a new one. (ew Jersey allows people to submit their own plans for construction of residential
structures. However, there are more and more guidelines homeowners aren't aware of that make submitting their own plans a frowned-upon decision. Municipalities are directing homeowners to hire a professional for the design of their home.
If you decide to hire an architect to design your project, there are many questions you should ask. This
guide will help you learn more about the architect you are dealing with and ensure your project runs
smoothly.
1.
What does the architect see as important issues or considerations in your project?
2.
How will the architect approach your project?
3.
How will the architect gather information about your needs, goals, etc.?
4.
How will the architect establish priorities and make decisions?
5.
Who from the architecture firm will you be dealing with directly? Who will be designing your project?
6.
How interested is the architect in this project?
7.
How busy is the architect?
8.
What sets this architect apart from the rest?
9.
How does the architect establish fees?
10.
What would the architect expect the fee to be for this project?
11.
What are the steps in the design process?
12.
How does the architect organize the process?
13.
What does the architect expect you to provide?
14.
What is the architect's design philosophy?
15.
What is the architect's experience with cost estimating?
16.
What will the architect show you to explain the project? Will you see models, drawings, or computer animations?
17.
If the scope of the project changes later in the project, will there be additional fees? How will these fees
be justified?
18.
What services does the architect provide during construction?
19.
How long does the architect expect your project will take to complete?
20.
Does the architect have a list of references you can contact?
You can see there is much to learn by asking these questions. Expect the architect to ask you many questions
also. It’s only fair to the architect that he feels you are a client worth working alongside of. Many relationships
between homeowner and architect are successful. Do your homework and avoid a bad experience.
ASR Architecture PA, Inc
732-528-1597
WWW.ASRARCHITECTURE(J.COM
Lakewood BlueClaws Picnic
10
11
2011 MEET THE MAYORS
The lovely Sienna Room at The Mill at Spring Lake was the setting for the Southern Monmouth Chamber of
Commerce’s Annual Meet the Mayors event held on September 20, 2011. The delicious food and beautiful lakeside
room offered a wonderful venue for the event. The Mill provided an expansive buffet offering a wide variety of
breakfast foods. The attentive wait staff provided exceptional service, with prompt attention and friendly attitudes.
SMCC’S President Jim Dallas of Envirotactics opened the event with upcoming SMCC events and announcements. Mr. Dallas rolled out the newest of SMCC’s networking opportunities, The Coffee Connector, meeting every
Wednesday morning from 8:00 – 9:30AM at Perkins on Route 35 in Wall. This weekly breakfast get- together offers
a relaxed atmosphere for networking and is open to both members and guests.
This event was sponsored by Investors Bank. Mark Balsam of Investors Bank proudly reminded attendees of
the bank’s 84 year old existence and commitment to excellence. In addition, Mr. Balsam advised of the bank’s new
name; Investors Bank, dropping the word “savings”.
Adam Puharic of the Danskin Insurance Agency and SMCC’S 1st Vice President, was the emcee for the morning. Mr. Puharic gave a brief biography of each of the mayors and dignitaries in attendance.
Mayor Schrek of Bradley Beach was the first to speak and gave a description of Bradley Beach, while a family
town, is now actively promoting businesses to put down roots in Bradley Beach. Mayor Schrek has identified limited
parking as one challenge the town is actively tackling towards that effort. The Bradley Beach Chamber of Commerce
is now flourishing and assisting with ideas to make the business area’s streets more pedestrian friendly.
Next to speak was Spring Lake Mayor Jennifer Naughton. Mayor Naughton began by thanking all of the town
services that supported Spring Lake in the wake of Hurricane Irene. The Borough of Spring Lake was one of the
hardest hit towns in Monmouth County and qualified for FEMA assistance. Mayor Naughton went on to outline the
multiple projects currently underway to assist the growth of local retailers and to attract new retailers to the town.
According to Mayor Naughton, downtown Spring Lake, having become dominated by commercial buildings, has
made it difficult for the retailers to thrive and has lessened the attraction of year round tourists.
Lake Como’s Mayor Ryan was next up at the podium. Mayor Ryan advised that over 94% of land in Lake
Como is in use; this is helping to generate tax revenue. In turn, the monies are committed to attracting tourists to the
little town of Lake Como. Although Bar Anticipation is the anchor business, Mayor Ryan and his associates are always focused on building programs to encourage retailers to put down roots in Lake Como. Recently, Lake Como
was awarded a grant that will be used to change the street plan of the town. Many events have been added to the
town’s agenda, the soonest happening on October 1st. This Town Festival is a free event, open to all. In addition to
all the crafters and artists displaying their wares, the
popular band Cold Play will be rocking the town.
The next dignitary kind enough to speak to the
over 50 attendees, was Mayor Kevin McMillan of Neptune. One of Mayor McMillan’s concerns is the safety
of the streets of Neptune for pedestrians, and especially
children walking to school. Parking is a big challenge
for the Mayor and one he is currently tackling. In addition, Mayor McMillan has continued to work to decrease the response time of local departments in getting
new businesses up and running. Stay tuned and watch
Neptune grow!
12
2011 MEET THE MAYORS CO(TI(UED
Amy Mallet, one of the County Freeholders to 53 municipalities shared some exciting new services now offered
in Monmouth County. This“Grow Monmouth County” initiative has provided for the emergency response system,
911, to be a service shared between towns. The additional services now offered by Monmouth County include a Wellness Card, available for all residents of Monmouth County, free of charge. This card will give the cardholder discounts for various health services. At no cost to taxpayers, there will be a Monmouth Veteran Service. County employees will be trained and certified to counsel veterans. These counselors will assist veterans in navigating through
the difficult paperwork process, hopefully to find often overlooked benefits to the veterans. The Monmouth County
agenda for 2011 includes reducing waste, recreation programs
for senior citizens and a Solar Power initiative, which will include reaching out to schools to encourage all to “run clean”.
Mr. David Rible, Assemblyman for the 11th district announced he will be moving to District 30. Mr. Rible has never
forgotten his small business roots. To that end, he continues to
work diligently on keeping businesses in New Jersey. Although progress is not as far along as Mr. Rible would like, he
did have a recent achievement to share. The company,
“Bayer”, decided to remain in state, keeping hundreds of residents employed. This was due to a tax incentive offered by the
state.
Door prizes were a gift certificate for two to The Mill, won by Anthony Urgola of Cartridge Depot. Additional
door prizes were one free SMCC General Membership Meeting coupon and two free SMCC Coffee Connector coupons.
Mr. Puharic closed the meeting with heartfelt thanks to
all the dignitaries in attendance, with special thanks to those
who spoke at the meeting. Mr. Puharic is looking forward to
seeing everyone at the next Southern Monmouth Chamber of
Commerce Event.
13
SMCC HOSTS JULY GMM
SCHOLARSHIP LU(CHEO(
The Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce held their July
General Membership Scholarship Luncheon on July 19, 2011. This
well attended event was held at the Francis Asbury Manor, Ocean
Grove. Guests and members alike enjoyed delicious lunch fare while
engaging is some social networking before the meeting started.
Our Chamber President, Jim Dallas, was our emcee for the day.
Thank you to Pat Darcy of the Francis Asbury Manor for sponsoring
this event and donating the proceeds to our Scholarship Fund. Mr. Dallas opened the afternoon by giving the attendees dates and times for
upcoming Chamber events. Everyone in attendance had the opportunity
to stand and introduce themselves and their business to the over 40 in
attendance.
This GMM was the Chambers’ Scholarship Award Ceremony,
where two students from Monmouth County were awarded a one thousand dollar scholarship check. Each scholarship candidate
must submit either an essay or a piece of artwork and must have an acceptance letter from the college they will attend. The entries are judged anonymously by the Scholarship Committee. All personal information of the candidates’ identity is removed
prior to judging, for fairness.
St. Rose High School’s Hannah Krotulis won with her essay detailing her dream to pursue a career in social work. Ms. Krotulis is attending The College of NJ.
Lauren Strazdis, from Manasquan High School took home the second scholarship. Lauren’s essay detailed her plans of owning and operating her own therapeutic riding stable. Lauren is attending the University of Connecticut, where she was able to
design her own program of animal science and equine management.
Both girls had proud family members in attendance as they accepted their awards. Ms. Nancy Conte, Scholarship Committee
chairperson and Linda Talbot, Co- Chair, presented the students with their awards, as well as engraved gift pens. Way to go
girls!
The second half of the meeting had Mr. Dallas introducing the guest speakers of the day: May Sikora and her daughter Lauren, of Canine Companions for Independence. May brought a dog in training, and a dog that was deemed not a good match for
the program. A client of CCI was also in attendance with her companion dog. Kim graciously demonstrated the ways her dog
worked with her and provided her with an independent lifestyle, although she is wheel
chair bound. The demonstration and presentation was both informative and the dog in
training was entertaining. Ms. Sikora outlined how a dog becomes a Canine Companion, beginning in puppyhood, and the hard work that goes into training these special
animals. We are very appreciative to May and Canine Companions of Independence
for the time and effort it took for the entire “Canine” team to be in attendance at our
meeting.
The event ended with door prizes awarded for a free General Membership Meeting
and free coupons for Wednesday morning SMCC Coffee Connector breakfasts.
Pictures by All is
Sharp Photography
14
15
30+ Years – SMCC Member Spotlight
Wicker- Plus Imports
Did you know that our business has been in Wall for 35 years and is located in the former Wall Police Station
at 2034 Highway 35? Our building is home to two (2) jail cells located in the back of the store. The jail cells
are available for anyone who would like to stop by and see them.
Our store sells outdoor and indoor furniture, cushions and accessories. Rather than dwell on the past, let us talk
about the future. We have furniture of the future, showcasing solid resin, stainless steel hardware and your
choice of an assortment of colors and designs. We carry a full line of all-weather wicker with aluminum
frames in four (4) colors.
We believe our Adirondack chairs are the best made. Let us design a picnic table for you in any size, shape and
color with benches or chairs to match. Our furniture is weather resistant and can stay outside all year. No packing up and moving furniture for the winter!
Any member of the Southern Monmouth Chamber of Commerce, and their families, will receive a member-tomember discount of 20%!
Thank you to all our customers past, present and future.
Sincerely,
Wicker-Plus Imports
732-449-3880
GRA(D OPE(I(GS
Design Line Kitchens
2127 Highway 35
Sea Girt, (J 08750
732-449-6760
Turnstile Coffee
1607 Highway 71
Belmar, (J 07719
732-894-9012
16
Wednesdays SMCC Coffee Connector - 8:00 - 9:30 am at Perkins, Route 35, Wall. Cost $10
members - non-members $15
Tues (ov 15 General Membership Meeting – 12:00 – 1:30 pm. Location: Sand Bar, Brielle, NJ
Sponsor: TD Bank – Speaker: Lisa Radin of Waterfront College Planning. Cost: $25
members in advance - $30 members at the door and guests.
Thurs Dec 1 Women in Business Council Lunch - 12:00pm-1:30 pm. Location: Dauphin Grille,
1401 Ocean Ave., Asbury Park. Speaker/Sponsor: Optimum Health Chiropractic’s
Dr. Veera Gupta. Cost $25 members in advance - $30 non-members and members at
the door. Please bring an unwrapped toy for Interfaith (eighbors.
Thurs Dec 8 Holiday Gala – Location: Barlow’s Flower Farm. Sponsors: The Coach’s Zone &
HRS(J - Cocktail Sponsor: TD Bank, Music Sponsors: Alcoeur Gardens, Press Communications The Breeze 107.1, Adam Puharic of Danskin Insurance Agency - Dessert Sponsors: Denise Wegeman MSW, LCSW, JT Lane Corporate Gifts, Thrivent
Financial for Lutherans and the Law Office of Jacqueline McGowan. Cost: $50 includes, appetizers, dinner, open bar, dessert, coffee, live holiday music and shopping at
Barlow’s!
2012
Thurs Jan 5 Women in Business Council Lunch – Save the Date - Details to follow
Tues Jan 17 General Membership Meeting Breakfast for 2012 – 9:00 – 10:30 am at Doolan’s
Shore Club, Spring Lake Heights, NJ. Speaker: SBA (J – Sponsor: YOUR (AME
HERE. Cost: $25 members in advance - $30 members at the door and non-members.
Thurs Jan 26 1st Annual From the Heart Wine and Chocolate Benefit – 5:30 – 8:00 pm at The Mill
at Spring Lake Heights. Wine vendors courtesy of Spirit of ’76 Wines & Liquors,
Route 71, Manasquan. This year’s event to benefit the FoodBank of Monmouth and
Ocean Counties. Sponsorships available. Door prize: Gift Basket including gift certificates to all food vendors at event and wine! Details to follow.
17