FROM OUR NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ANDREW SURPRISE
Executive Director
Greater Old Saybrook Chamber
Hello CT Shoreline – I’m Andrew K. Surprise
It’s a privilege to introduce myself to the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber and our neighbors across the Shoreline region. As I take on the role of Executive Director, I do so with gratitude for the leadership of my predecessor, Judy Sullivan, and a deep respect for the vibrant, hard-working communities that make this part of Connecticut so special. Like Judy, I believe a Chamber doesn’t just represent businesses it serves the people behind them, and the communities they support.
You can count on continuity where it matters. We’ll keep up the great customer service and responsiveness our members have come to rely on. And yes, the events that bring us together year after year, those traditions that define us, aren’t going anywhere. But this isn’t just about maintaining what works. It’s about expanding what’s possible. We’ll be launching new events, offering member trainings tailored for businesses of every size, and reviving our Young Professionals group with a new identity and mission.
Economic development doesn’t happen in a vacuum. That’s why one of my top priorities is building partnerships with other Chambers, nonprofits, and every municipality in our service area. We’ll strengthen our relationships, align our goals, and build the kind of collaboration that lifts the whole region. When organizations collaborate, everyone benefits.
We’ll also be rolling out new programs to help our members thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. That includes enhanced marketing opportunities and initiatives to boost local tourism because whether you’re a main street storefront, a local artist, or a growing firm, visibility matters. Our goal is simple: help you grow your business and your impact.
Everything we do at the Chamber is guided by one principle: we lift ourselves by lifting up others. I’ve seen it firsthand when community leaders, entrepreneurs, and residents pull together, they don’t just improve the economy, they build trust, foster pride, and create real momentum. I’m committed to nurturing that kind of shared success here on the Shoreline.
This is an exciting time, and I’m honored to help write the next chapter. My door will always be open. I look forward to meeting you, working alongside you, and doing everything I can to support your goals and strengthen our communities.
Andrew Surprise, GOSC Executive Director
EVENT INFO EVENT INFO
Members have an opportunity to introduce themselves and their business/organization.
By reservation, 3 members may have a 3minute spotlight to share their business!
@ Vicky G. Duffy Pavilion 155 College St, Old Saybrook
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
Members have an opportunity to introduce themselves and their business/organization. Meetings are moderated as attendees briefly explain their business.
By reservation, 3 members may have a 3minute spotlight to share their business!
@ Old Lyme Inn 85 Lyme Street, Old Lyme
Members have an opportunity to introduce themselves and their business/organization.
By reservation, 3 members may have a 3minute spotlight to share their business!
@ Vicky G. Duffy Pavilion 155 College St, Old Saybrook
Businesses from Boston Post Road/Route 1 to Main Street and throughout neighboring towns are offering exclusive sales and promotions.
Enjoy amazing deals all weekend long!
:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Point 5K Road Race 2025
Race to raise money for The Exchange Clubs A.C.E. (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) Award and the Greater Old Saybrook Chamber C. Wilfred Hunter Memorial Scholarship!
Packs can be picked up on Friday, August 22nd at Marathon Sports in Old Saybrook between 4pm6pm or the morning of the race, starting at 7:30am. Price will increase to $30 starting August 22
Join us for a delicious lunch and lively conversation at Saybrook Point Resort & Marina, with an informative presentation from a special guest speaker! Visit our website for more information. 8:00 AM - 9:
Calling all women!
THE PERFECT GIFT
$ayBucks Community eGift Cards can be easily purchased online and given as gifts to family, friends, employees, teachers, coaches, you name it!
All your favorite local places on one digital card! The card is emailed to the recipient, who can present it to merchants on their smartphone or print it out. Easy!
Look out for GOSC Membership renewals starting in August/September! Navigate to your membership portal on our website to view details and membership status/dues.
The Greater Old Saybrook Chamber provides countless opportunities to individuals, businesses, and organizations to do just that! With meetings, events, digital and physical marketing opportunities, and more, members of our Chamber have a greater chance to thrive!
SHEILAMCKINLEY-BELL
Principal Consultant
Shoreline HR Consulting Contact | (860) - 256 - 9881
COMPLYING WITH CT STATE & FEDERAL WAGE LAWS
Welcome Back to ASK HR!
Whether you are an independent contractor, consultant, or a small business, our ASK HR column will help answer basic but important questions regarding a variety of human resources-related topics Sheila McKinley-Bell of Shoreline HR Consulting is here to help sort out these questions and find the simple answers that will clarify many business concerns whether working with one or many in your organization.
Question: How do I make sure my business is compliant with CT State and Federal wage and hour laws?
Another great question! Actually, the latest issue of Society of Human Resources Quarterly includes an article by Lisa Nagele-Piazza, JD on this exact topic. Following are some excerpts from the article, including these seven tips:
1. Classify Employees Properly
Employers should determine whether an employee's job responsibilities pass the “duties test” from the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) for the exemption, as well as whether the employee earns a salary that meets the minimum threshold [(currently $684/wk or higher.
A separate, higher threshold exists for highly compensated employees (HCE)]. When in doubt, consider classifying an employee as nonexempt
2. Make Deductions Cautiously
As a general rule, exempt, salaried employees must be paid their regular salary for any week in which they perform work, regardless of the number of hours or days they work
However, there are a few exceptions such as partial-day absences due to a qualifying reason under the Family and Medical Leave Act and partial weeks worked during the first and last week of employment
3. Calculate Overtime Accurately
Overtime for nonexempt, hourly employees must be paid at 1.5 times the “regular rate of pay” for all hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek.
4. Review Classifications
Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can lead to costly claims for minimum wage, overtime pay, and other employee benefits.
5. Guard Against Off-the-Clock Work
Nonexempt, hourly employees are not allowed to work off the clock. This is a particular concern with the rise of remote work and the ease of using personal devices for work.
Make sure employees record their time properly and are paid for all time worked.
6. Account for Nonexempt Travel Time
When an employee travels away from their home community for a one-day assignment, an employer generally must pay for any time beyond their normal commute.
The employer does not have to pay for regular commute time. The employer must pay for any time traveling during the workday, for example, between work locations or client sites When an employee goes to another city and stays overnight, the employer must pay for the time the employee spends in transit that overlaps their normal work schedule regardless of the day of the week.
7. Review State Laws
Although federal law generally sets the floor for wage and hour requirements, the State of CT can have stricter rules. I recommend exploring the shrm.org website for further information.
HOW TO ADVERTISE
Email alex@oldsaybrookchamber.com to secure your spot. The Chamber is always looking for graphic advertisements, articles, topics, and ideas. The Chamber Chatbook was created to provide readers with helpful Chamber and community information. Chapters are issued the second week of every other month. Deadline to submit advertisements or articles is the first of the issued month. Next Chapter releases in September 2025!
Advertisement Pricing:
Business Card - $40
Banner - $75
Half Page - $100
Event Listing - $40