AROUND THE CHAMBER AUGUST, 2022
IN THIS ISSUE 6 - Director's Cut 8 - Member Check-in (Linda's Apparel) 13 - Meet the Board (Dickie Austin) 16 - Focus on Non-Profits (Age Well) 22 - Behind the Scenes (Lloyd Komesar) 30 - New Member Closeup (Purple Couch) 37 - Member Spotlights
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Around the Chamber
Have something to say or an idea for this publication? Contact us! Info@addisoncounty.com
ACCOC publishes Around the Chamber monthly and it reaches thousands of business, non profit leaders and their employees in Addison County and beyond. Around the Chamber boasts an average 46% open rate with an average read time of 7:30 Members are encouraged to supply their announcements and events by emailing phil@addisioncounty.com. For ad availability and rate card email phil@addisoncounty.com. Addison County Chamber of Commerce. 2022, All Rights Reserved
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Director's Cut Phil Summers - ACCOC Executive Director
New County Wide Ad Campaign Launches
48 Hours In Addison County
"48 Hours in Addison County" a new advertising campaign designed to attract tourism from underrepresented groups launched in July and will continue through Spring 2023. The campaign is being administrated by a partnership including The Addison County Chamber of Commerce, the Better Middlebury Partnership, the Addison County Economic Development Corporation, the Vergennes Partnership and Bristol Core. The campaign was created by the Vermont advertising agency London/ Middlebury and will feature tourism destinations throughout the county that will change seasonally. Media buys on social media channels and via social media influencers will target audiences in the NYC, Boston and Albany DMA's. To see the entire campaign go to ADDISONCOUNTY.COM
Phil Summers is the Executive Director of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce. Prior to ACCOC, Phil was the Executive Director of the Virginia Youth Soccer Association and earlier held senior marketing positions at the National Football League, Sirius Satellite Radio and MSG Varsity where he was a two time Emmy Award winner (2011 & 2012) and two time Silver Addy Award winner (2013). Phil has also taught undergraduate courses in advertising and marketing at the University of Mary Washington in Virginia.
Member Check-in Linda's Apparel, Vergennes By Linda Cook From a young age, I always knew I wanted to be in fashion, in one form or another. When I was a young child, we took the train to Florida and our taxi driver in NYC, took us by the fashion district. I thought it was the coolest thing, people pushing around garment racks, and all the hustle and bustle. That’s it, when I grow up, I’m moving to New York! I went to the 2 year program at Champlain College for fashion merchandising. In the fall of ’82, I started working at fishman’s Dept Store and when they closed 15 years later, I had worked up to Women’s Wear buyer. I was employed for 8 years at Classic Stitching as front end manager.
Linda Cook In the meantime, I got married to my husband, Bruce Bishop in the Spring of 2003. It kept talking about opening a store in Vergennes, as I felt there was a need for a more casual shop (Everwear was open at the time and they were dressier). Bruce kept saying if you want to do it, just do it. In the winter of 2004/2005, Tim I Hodson who owned Addison Outfitters, was looking for someone to lease part of his store and I jumped on it! Linda’s Apparel was born!
Member Check-in Linda's Apparel, Vergennes We opened in the Spring of 2005, and it immediately took off. I had one part time employee. Then in the winter 0f 2012. Tim from Addison Outfitters, decided he wanted to pursue other interests and that fall of that year, we opened The Men’s Corner right next door. If you have never been here, both stores are open to each other. Vergennes, is an awesome city to own a business in, besides our location of being on 22A, all of business owners work together and have fun together. Yes, we do have truck’s that come through and parking can be an issue, but for the most part, having a business in Vergennes is a rewarding experience. I have been lucky enough to be involved with our Vergennes Chamber before it dissolved and then became a member of theAddison County Chamber. At the moment, I’m also involved with the Vergennes Partnership on the Economic Development Board.
The past 2 years have been a difficult journey with Covid, but we have been so blessed to have so many loyal customers that are like family to us. We have 8 awesome (part time) employees. Most of the women who work here have been here for several years. I have seen children grow up and bring in their children, we have lost many customers over the years too. The ebb and flow of life goes on for all of us. From the bottom of my heart, Thank You to everyone who has walked through our doors. I can’t think of another place besides Vergennes that I would like to have my business!
Meet the Board Every month "Around the Chamber" will introduce our readers to a member of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
In this issue, we introduce you to ACCOC Board Member Dickie Austin
How long have you lived and/or worked in Addison County? I was born and raised in Vergennes. My first job was at Togos Pizza on Main street when I was 15 so I’ve worked in Addison County for approximately 28 years with a year or two here and there in other places Tell us about your business I’m the general manager of both Black Sheep Bistro, a French inspired bistro on Main street in Vergennes, and Park Squeeze a neighborhood bar and restaurant also on Main Street How long have you volunteered with the Chamber’s Board? About 3 years
Dickie Austin
In 2022, what do you see as the most challenging issue(s) facing business in Addison County? The most challenging issues, in my opinion, are housing and staffing shortages. One leads directly to the other. It is difficult for local businesses to find and retain staff when there is no affordable options for workers to live in our communities. The Chamber of Commerce’s role in supporting business and non-profits in Addison County is always evolving. In your view, what should be the Chamber’s strategic direction in 2022? I believe the focus on digital and social media has been very helpful and would like to see us continuing in that direction
Focus on Non-Profits
Greetings! I am excited to introduce you to Age Well’s feature as this months’ Focus on NonProfits. Thank you Addison Chamber of Commerce for the spotlight! We are grateful for the privilege to serve older Vermonters and their caregivers in Addison County. Age Well offers care & service coordination, Meals on Wheels, community meals, wellness programs, social activities, transportation services, expertise on Medicare, insurance, long and short-term care options, caregiver support, the Helpline, and more to the community free of charge. Keep reading for information about our services, volunteer opportunities, and more. With Gratitude,
Jane Catton, CEO
Jane Catton
Learn more about our upcoming Community Meals and Grab & Go sites, contact Michelle Eastman, Nutrition & Wellness Coordinator for Addison County at michelle@agewellvt.org or 802-377-1419.
Care & Service Coordination Care coordination enables individuals to access services and benefits that ensures their independence and enhances their quality of life.
Care & Service Coordinators maintain regular Join us for a meal contact with individuals to monitor services and assess for additional needs. They have For those able to venture out, we serve meals in established effective, collaborative partnerships gathering places and restaurants throughout with community organizations, providers, and Northwestern Vermont, providing an state agencies to better serve the needs of older opportunity to stay connected to your adults. As important decisions or changes arise, community, enjoying time with friends and we connect you with the necessary resources to neighbors. make informed decisions.
Focus on Non-Profits
Age Well's Care & Service Coordinators provide the following services for individuals and caregivers: • Assistance with applications for 3SquaresVT, Medicaid, Fuel Assistance, pharmacy programs, SSI, Medicare, supplemental insurance, housing options, and other benefit programs • Assessments for in-home care services, durable medical equipment, home modifications, adaptive equipment, and Meals on Wheels • Referrals for nutritional assessments, depression or grief counseling, and volunteers/Senior Companions for friendly visits • Options for long-term care services in their homes and elsewhere • Help with completing healthcare and financial powers of attorney documents • Information about support groups, caregiver training programs, and respite services in the community Whether you are a family member or professional, we will create a cohesive support system, administering the best care possible while keeping the client at home, where they want to be. Call the Helpline at 1-800-6425119 to learn more.
Medicare Counseling – Let us help you Need help navigating health insurance? Age Well’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free and confidential health insurance counseling. We are here to help you understand the process and decisions related to health insurance. We offer weekly on-line New to Medicare classes from 9:30 am – 11:30 am. This class will help you save money by avoiding enrollment penalties, make informed decisions by understanding your options, know where to find additional help, and protect yourself against Medicare fraud. Call the Helpline to register: 1-800-6425119.
Focus on Non-Profits
Addison County Community Champion: Scott Gaines
Scott Gaines, owner of Gaines Insurance Company has been delivering Meals on Wheels for over 20 years in Vergennes: “Volunteering is an escape from my day-to-day. I look forward to it – it is the best hour of the day you will ever have. Having been brought up in the area, I know many of the folks on my route - I’ve seen old school teachers and clients. I have a lot of fun. You develop a relationship and without a doubt, you’re making a difference in these people’s lives. Because they often do not have anyone else in their lives. The older folks really appreciate your effort. I’ve heard over and over, ‘thank you for bringing me the meal. But most importantly, thank you for spending a couple of minutes with me.’ It might seem like a little thing to you, but it can make their day.”
There are several ways to you can join Scott and give your time as an individual or as a business including: • Friendly visits with older adults • Delivering Meals on Wheels • Minor home repairs, building ramps, and yard work • Providing transportation to medical appointments • And more! Contact to the Volunteer Department to learn more: 802-662-5273 or volunteerservices@agewellvt.org.
Focus on Non-Profits Self-Neglect Have you noticed a sudden change in one of your loved ones over 60? Such as recent untidiness? Unwashed clothes? Poor hygiene? Do they seem to be confused or making unsafe decisions? They may be self-neglecting. Warning signs of self-neglect: • Sudden or recent behavioral changes • Poor hygiene • Physical environment in poor condition • Untreated wounds • No recent medical appointments or visits • Resistance to necessary care services • Weight loss • Poor safety awareness Note: Self-neglect does not refer to someone who makes these lifestyle decisions and is able to understand the consequences of their actions. Rather, an individual who is unable to meet their basic needs because of a physical or cognitive impairment. Possible causes of self-neglect: • Dementia • Mental health disorders • Medication • Other medical condition • Substance use • Social Isolation Age Well is the designated agency in Northwestern Vermont to receive referrals for self-neglect. To make a referral call the Helpline at Age Well: 1-800-642-5119.
Get in Touch Our Addison County office is at 39 Court Street in Middlebury. We are open Monday's, Wednesday's, & Friday's from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Call the Helpline at 1-800-642-5119 to learn more about our services or go to agewellvt.org. Follow Age Well on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, & LinkedIn to stay up-to-date on the latest services and events. Age Well is a 501(c)3 non-profit, our services are offered free of charge.
s e n e c S e h t Behind with esar Lloyd Kom
Each month, "Behind the Scenes" features an interview with a leader in our community designed to provide readers a glimpse into his/her interests and passions inside and outside of the workplace
This month, "Behind the Scenes" sat down with Lloyd Komesar of Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival Where did you grow up? I was born and raised in Rochester, New York in western New York State. My paternal grandfather immigrated to the U.S. from Ukraine in the very early 1900s and eventually made his way up there from New York City as a relatively young teenager. My father was born in Rochester in 1927. I have cousins who live there but I infrequently return to the city.
Where did you go to college? I graduated from Brighton High School (in the Rochester suburbs) in 1970, got my BA from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Connecticut in 1974 and an MS from Brooklyn College in 1982.
First ever job? The first job that really meant something to me was selling shoes in the women’s shoe department at Edwards Department Store in Pittsford, New York when I was 16 and 17. I also caddied at Oak Hill Country Club in Rochester for a couple of summers, and was very fortunate to caddy in the practice round of the 1968 U.S. Open at Oak Hill for Tom Weiskopf and Kel Nagle. They each tipped me $50 which seemed like a veritable fortune in those days.
Lloyd Komesar
Greatest inspiration growing up? I idolized many a sports figure, with Roberto Clemente at the top of the list, and Bobby Hull and Arnold Palmer and Bill Russell right there too. Because I played so many sports as a kid and devoted hours to their pursuit, my heroes gave me inspiration.
Favorite vacation spot??
Topsail Beach, near Wilmington, North Carolina. So many great memories were created there in the 90s for our family and our closest friends. An unforgettable place.
s e n e c S e h t Behind with esar Lloyd Kom
Who do you most admire? My grandfather was a constant source of admiration because he had lost his right arm, his favored arm, to gangrene in WWI and had to retrain himself to function as a one-armed, lefthanded man in order to succeed in life. He had a great career working for the City of Rochester and overcame much of his infirmity with sheer dedication and hard work. My other profound source of admiration was the great Nelson Mandela, a man devoted to peace and reconciliation despite the severe personal hardships he experienced.
Favorite TV Show/Movie? Hands down favorite film: North by Northwest, by Alfred Hitchcock. We are living through another Golden Age of Television so this is a harder one to pick but I adored The Americans, on FX a few years back.
Favorite type of music? I am a former college dj so there is no one favorite genre of music. Folk, rock, jazz, bluegrass, reggae, the blues. I mean, music is an integral part of my life so why not embrace as much of it as I can?
Typical work week? To produce the Middlebury New Filmmakers Festival each summer, I am working about 80 hours a week. It’s a heavy lift but I love it.
Biggest career challenge? Doing well enough in whatever endeavor I chose to support my family comfortably.
Greatest risk taken in your career? Moving through several significant roles inside the company that all brought new challenges. Success was never guaranteed. Pitfalls were ever present.
What's the one thing you would change about your industry/mission? I spent 25 years working at the Walt Disney Company and it set me up very well to pursue this next chapter in my life. So, in looking back, I could perhaps point to things I might have felt needed change, but that hindsight is really of no value now.
Addison County
CHAMBER of Commerce
After Hours
NETWORKING MIXERS
July Mixer at Notte, Middlebury - Sponsored by MNFF & Notte
Thank you!
Thank you!
ACCOC would like to thank the following organizations who renewed their 2022 memberships this month.
Thank You! RENEWING MEMBERS! American Red Cross Middlebury Acting Company Middlebury Frameshop & Gallery Middlebury Studio School Milne Travel American Express Mount Abraham Unified School District Otter Creek Bakery & Deli Rainbow Pediatrics Sharon L Stearns CPA PLLC Thornapple Farm Tourterelle Restaurant & Inn Vermont Adult Learning Vermont Livestock Slaughter & Processing CO. LLC
Each month in "Around the Chamber" we will recognize new and renewing members for their support in helping ACCOC enhance and improve the business and non-profit communities in Addison County.
enjoy a meal out!! 22 Merchant's Row Middlebury 802-989-7376
161 Main St. Vergennes 802-877-9962
HERE
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TA N K-S WO KIC AEK T
TaekwonDo classes for all ages from preschool through adults in 4 location. All inclusive classes, open to all ages and abilities. First class free to try out. No contracts and family discounts. Also available for group Basic Self Defense or Women Specific Self Defense Workshops for businesses or organizations. Birthday Parties and After School Programs. Please email tkdkicks101@yahoo.com or call 802-37709476. Check out our website at TaeKwon Do KICKS 2022 recipient of BOB (Best of the Business) Award for Best Health Club in Addison, Franklin and Grand Isle Counties
CONVENIENT LOCATIONS IN MIDDLEBURY VERGENNES ORWELL HINESBURG Preschool classes at Mary Johnson, Whiting Ark and Starksboro preschool.
Member Spotlights
Member Since 2009 Member Since 2005
Member Since 2020
Member Since 2017
Member Since 2012
Member Since 2020
Every month "Around the Chamber" features six ACCOC members for recognition. Members who would like to be considered for future issues should contact Executive Director Phil Summers at phil@addisoncounty.com
Officers Robert Feuerstein, Kennedy Brothers (Chair) Bethany Dever, Dever Accounting Services (Treasurer) Meaghan McLaughlin, National Bank of Middlebury (Secretary) Adam Rainville, Maple Landmark (Past Chair) Phil Summers, ACCOC (Executive Director) Directors Dickie Austin, Black Sheep Bistro Amy Carlin: Middlebury College Gretchen Cotell, Hannaford Career Center Nancy Foster, Champlain Valley Properties Judson Hescock, Putnam & Menard, PLC Ned Horton, Otter Creek Bakery and Deli Marty Kulczyk, Robert Frost Mountain Cabins Megan Mandigo, Marble Trail Financial Article IV, Section D Designate Directors Karen Duguay, Better Middlebury Partnership Kate Bentley, Bristol Core Renny Perry, Addison County Economic Development Corp. Renny Perry, Vergennes Partnership Bill Sayre, Addison County Regional Planning Commission
Coming Next Month
- Behind the Scenes - Meet the Board - Focus on Non-Profits - New Member Closeup - Member Buzz - Community/Member Highlights - and more!!