Prizes for everyone at chamber's Christmas party


 

MILLBROOK — The Harlem Valley Chamber of Commerce (HVCC) observed Christmas early this year, at Copperfield’s Restaurant near Millbrook. The party took place on Friday evening, Nov. 20. Despite the opening of deer season the next day, and flu fears, nearly 30 members showed up to "have a party early and beat the rush," as HVCC President Ken Hale said in his opening remarks.

The HVCC includes members from Millerton, Amenia, Pine Plains, Dover and Millbrook and was launched two years ago to promote small businesses in the entire region. In addition to providing networking opportunities for its members, the chamber is actively involved in community activities. This year it sponsored its first annual dog show at Ledgewood Kennel in Millerton, which raised money for area student college scholarships. The event was so successful, according to Hale, that another dog show is now being planned for next summer. And, of course, the Dock Dogs event (when running dogs leap off a dock into a pool of water in a contest to jump the longest distance) will be back, Hale said.

After cocktails and dinner, there was a raffle and everyone attending, including this reporter, won prizes generously provided by Welch Sanitation and Freshtown of Amenia. Members talked about the opening of Salisbury Bank in Millerton in January 2010. That building, located at the corner of Main Street and Maple Avenue, is now nearing completion.

Town Supervisor Gregg Pulver of Pine Plains spoke informally about the recent hostage situation at Stissing Mountain Middle/High School and the positive effect of students knowing the law enforcement officers involved. He also regaled attendees with anecdotes about receiving telephone inquiries from around the world, including one from Radio Brazil.

Before adjourning for the evening there was an appeal from Sarah O’Connell for donations for food pantry programs.

The next meeting of the HVCC will be on Jan. 5 at Four Brothers Pizza Inn Restaurant in Amenia, where the guest speaker will be a representative from NY House magazine who will introduce a new Web program. New members are always welcome.

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