Mystic Chamber Member Profiles
Mystic Chamber Member Profiles
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Get to know your neighbors in community and business.
Get to know your neighbors in community and business.
Megan Kacenski
What do you do?
As an Arborist Representative, I inspect, diagnose, and provide recommendations for residential and commercial properties on how to manage their landscape. I focus on plant health care, soil care, and the structural integrity of trees.
I manage properties from Lyme to Stonington, CT.
What does Bartlett do?
Bartlett is a scientific tree care company. We offer many services, but we specialize in pruning, managing insects and disease, soil care and fertilization, cabling/ bracing/ lightning protection, and pruning or removal of trees and shrubs. We are fully insured, TCIA accredited, and have a large staff of certified arborists.
How did you get into this business?
I have family in the industry that introduced me at a young age. As I learned more, I found a passion for it and attended UMASS for Resource Economics and Agriculture. After college, I moved to Philadelphia to work for Bartlett as a climber and plant health care specialist.
What are some of the larger jobs you have done?
I have worked on some large commercial campuses but the most significant tree I have cared for is the Survivor Tree for the 911 Memorial. I helped prune the tree in preparation for the memorial ceremonies in September. As a symbol of strength for our country, the tree has had a memorable impact on me.
How often are you in the Stonington-Mystic Area?
I am here all the time! Stonington- Mystic is one of my favorite places to work.
What do you love about Bartlett?
I enjoy practicing scientific tree care and helping to preserve our urban canopy. Bartlett has given me incredible opportunities and I get to learn something new each day about trees and the way we can live with them. Arboriculture is an inherently dangerous industry and Bartlett prioritizes safety at every level. It’s motivating to work for a company that cares for their employees.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love Mystic Market and Sift –they are frequent stops for me. I like walking through the Pequot Nature Trail. After living in Philadelphia for 4 years, it’s nice to be back on the water.
What is something people don’t know about Bartlett?
It’s in its 3rd generation of family ownership. The company was founded in 1907 by F.A. Bartlett. His son, R.A. Bartlett, established a research lab and arboretum in Charlotte, NC in 1965. It now holds the world’s largest magnolia collection as well as notable conifer, holly, maple, elm, witch hazel, crabapple, and oak collections. R.A. Bartlett Jr. is the current CEO and has helped establish the company in new areas.
What are your goals for Summer 2022?
I am looking forward to helping my clients enjoy their properties this summer. I am also excited to spend time on my father’s sailboat this year!
Contact Information:
860-572-6070
Instagram: @lifeatbartlett
Facebook: Facebook.com/essex
Jean Lachance
What do you do?
Girl Friday for Shoreline Seniors, LLC is a non-medical senior concierge service, launched in mid-January 2022. I offer services to local senior citizens such as grocery shopping, menu planning and meal preparation, light housekeeping, transportation to appointments and errands, laundry and ironing, window washing, seasonal flowerbed plantings and cleanups, pet sitting and house sitting, and decluttering and organizing.
How did you get into this business?
The idea of helping seniors stay in their own homes safely and comfortably has been on my mind for the past couple years when I was Head of Circulation at East Lyme Public Library and running the Homebound Delivery Program. While working at the East Lyme Library for 27 years (17 years full-time and 10 years part-time), seniors were my favorite patrons and the relationships I built with them enriched my days. Creating and managing the library's Homebound Delivery Program cemented my love of seniors over the past 7 years and became the most fulfilling part of my job. That realization led me to take a leap of faith and make Girl Friday my next career. It has been the best decision in my life.
What is something people don't know about your business?
As a sole proprietor, I am the one and only service provider that my clients will see as compared to other senior home service agencies that send multiple employees to the same client. I offer a free initial hour meet and greet and new client discounts to help build a foundation of communication and establish a working relationship with my new clients. Having worked at the East Lyme Library for so many years, I have been very fortunate and thankful to have already established a solid base of clients in the East Lyme and Niantic area with seniors I have known for years now.
What do you love about Mystic?
I am a lifelong resident of Stonington so I have many happy memories of Mystic! I loved bike riding to The Emporium as a kid and buying penny candy in their basement or getting ice cream at Sea Swirl. My friends and I would hang out in Olde Mistick Village in the summer, pretending we were tourists and feeding the ducks. As an adult, I am grateful to live in such a beautiful area with a rich history. I love taking classes in hearth cooking and baking at the Mystic Seaport and love the book, Haunted Mystic! I am looking forward to taking some ghost tours of Mystic this year. The Village's Garlic Festival is my favorite event every year! There is always something new to discover locally!
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
I love cooking but I also love to go out to eat at my favorite places like Margaritas in Factory Square. The spider cider margarita is the best! The Jealous Monk and Dogwatch Mystic are among my favorites. Peking Tokyo and Pink Basil are amazing for sushi and pad thai dishes! I love the cinema in the Village with those comfy heated seats.
What is something people don't know about you?
I have been a volunteer with Friends of Feral Felines, Inc. (FOFF) of East Lyme for over 25 years now. FOFF is a wonderful volunteer organization focusing on the trap-neuter-return (TNR) of feral and stray cats in New London County; TNR is the compassionate and humane method of stabilizing feral cat colonies. I have met so many terrific "cat people" over the years through FOFF and am thankful that Connecticut is proactive in helping feral cats. I have been known to rescue seagulls and just in the last year, an injured red-tailed hawk on I-95. Yes, I am one of those people that will stop and help a turtle across the road!
What are your plans for 2022?
I am currently finishing my CPR/First Aid certification and have enrolled in an online PCA (Personal Care Assistant) course to be able to provide an extra level of care for a longtime friend who just turned 98! Any educational opportunities that will help me better serve my senior clients will be on my agenda this year.
On a personal note, I look forward getting outside more and power walking and I cannot wait to start this year's vegetable gardening.
Contact Information:
860-879-4341
girlfridayctshoreline@gmail.com
Robert Nelson and Amanda Cummings
(Brother-Sister Duo)
Just Mystic
What do you do?
We design and distribute apparel to appeal to local and tourist affinities for Mystic, Connecticut and the surrounding local neighborhoods. Inspired by Mystic’s local charm and global influence, we design iconic coastal apparel for that everyday seaside vibe while also being mindful of our global impact. We try to practice sustainability by using high-quality, durable materials that will last for years as well as upcycling our fabric for new apparel.
We will be opening a retail store in Mystic in the Spring of 2022. Until then, you can find our merchandise on our website Just Mystic or follow us on instagram @justmysticshop.
How did you get into this business?
We are a brother-sister duo with entrepreneurial hearts and love for Mystic, which is a place with some of our earliest memories, and one where we want to create new memories with the generations that follow. With this in mind, we’ve wanted to build a business together at a grass root level and to keep it local.
Amanda has the mind for marketing and Robert has the brain for business. After talking about our love for Mystic, we realized there was a market for Mystic apparel. Robert wanted an iconic, simple, clean look for our merchandise made with durable, yet comfortable, material. After talking to a number of manufacturing partners, we decided to work with a household name brand, Champion, because of it’s high-quality, comfortable and simple style. It’s the perfect brand and look for our vibe!
What does your slogan mean – Your Everyday Seaside Drip?
Drip is a slang term for fashion. It definitely grabs your attention… It's very current.
We’re trying to have fun with this from picking out colors, making social posts, developing local relationships and more! Check out our Instagram to see all our fun videos we make to advertise our brand!
What do you love about Mystic?
There is something to do here in every season. Mystic summers are exciting, fun, and full of amazing activities. While the Mystic winters offer solace and that small-town feel with a humbling sense of community. Every season has stunning views of mystic and the seaside scape. The seaside really resonates with Robert as he was a docent at the Mystic Seaport Museum on the Sabino. There are lots of great memories for Robert here in his backyard.
What is something people don’t know about your business?
One of our founding values is philanthropy. We have a couple of causes that are near and dear to us and our local community. We have the “COASTIE” collection which 5% of the proceeds goes towards–Blue Star Families. This is a program to support military spouses and Veteran families.
We are also part of the 1% for the Planet program in which our contributions are donated to GreenWave, a non-profit ocean farming initiative that fosters the development of new kelp farms both locally and globally.
We offer free local shipping within 15 miles of downtown Mystic, supporting local customers in Groton, Stonington, Ledyard, Westerly, and of course, Mystic. Geographically, we have delivered as far west as Seattle, Washington, Santa Fe, New Mexico and Bozeman, Montana!
What are your plans for Winter 2022?
Testing new products! We’re expanding our product mix and look forward to offering greater diversity in our product selection. We also intend to formalize our Just Mystic Founding Member Program.
What is the Just Mystic Founding Member Program?
You are a Just Mystic Founding Member if you purchase something within the first six months of our launch, which will end in April. Members will receive benefits such as free lifetime shipping in the U.S., discounts, and early access to new products!
Click HERE to get your Just Mystic apparel now!
What is your favorite product?
Robert’s favorite product is the Mystic Champion Reverse Weave hoodie. The Reverse Weave is part of Champion’s premium line of heavyweight material. It’s super comfortable and durable. It’s weight is perfect for New England winters but also cool summer nights. We also have a limited edition version set to release in March!
Amanda loves the crewneck sweatshirts because they’re lightweight and have the soft, cheerful Summer colors.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
This is such a foodie town so we would have to say that we enjoy all the restaurants.
We especially love Oyster Club, Daniel Packer Inne and Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream.
Mystic also offers some great shops like The Nest, Manufaktura Company Store and Mystic Knotworks. They are all so fun and different - it’s great to see what is always in the windows!
Where can people buy your product?
Contact Info:
Email: amanda@justmystic.com and robert@justmystic.com
Phone Number: (202) 360-5376
Social Media Handle: @justmysticshop
Craig Ragan
Prompt Accounting Services, LLC
What do you do?
I provide accounting services like payroll, online bookkeeping, SBA loans and any realm of financial help. I really enjoy helping people with FASFA (Federal form) for student aid as well as helping out businesses with QuickBooks. Bookkeeping and federal forms can be tedious and complex, and I truly enjoy helping people through all financial processes to get them where they need to be to feel comfortable. If anyone needs help or guidance, I am here!
How did you get into this business?
I have been in this business for 35 years! I started off as just being a bookkeeper and then working for public firms in the private industry. I also worked for CPA firms as a consultant to get people organized for the tax season.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love Mystic as a whole. It is the most beautiful village I have ever seen. The people are wonderful – I love everything Mystic. About 12 years ago is when I came up here to visit on vacation with my wife and we both fell in love with this quaint town.
What is something people don’t know about your business?
They don’t know my exposure to private and public industries. We are talking publishing, ecommerce, maritime, real estate, chain operations, and much more!
What are your plans for Winter?
Tax season! I’ll be promoting the tax side of the businesses.
I also help people with SBA loans, for instance, when people are buying new equipment, getting a new payroll, or when a business is growing with more employees – that is when I jump in and help them with their loans.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
Sift! I have been going the whole summer and love everything they make.
Contact Info:
Email: cfrconsulting@aol.com
Phone Number: (631) 942-3464
Website: www.promptaccountingservices.com
Brianna Turgeon
Supreme Lending
What do you do?
I work for Supreme Lending. I am a mortgage originator which means I am licensed to sell mortgages to individuals.
I love interacting with individuals because each day is different and every client I work with has their own interesting aspect to bring to the table.
Ensuring my clients can get into financially sound decisions with the home buying process is very important to me. I instill trust, confidence, and loyalty with all my clients and friends within the community. Additionally, I truly enjoy educating people on the process since the process is always changing and can be challenging to keep up with at times. I recently worked with someone who was buying their next home and they mentioned how much the process has changed and appreciated my knowledge in sharing my insight and informative suggestions with them on their next steps.
How did you get into this business?
I have an accounting and finance background and always wanted to get involved with the finance side of real estate. I found a great company and group that I like to work with at Supreme Lending.
How did you end up in Mystic?
I grew up in Mystic, CT and recently moved to Stamford, CT for a year a half but then came back to Mystic and I am here to stay!
What is something people don’t know about you?
Most recently, have transitioned my athletic career into co-ed slow pitch softball. I have been able to travel and compete with a great group of athletes.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love how it is a small town feel but has recently developed some aspects of big city life. The restaurants are fantastic and there are always friendly faces around when walking through downtown Mystic. Additionally, when the weather is warm you get to experience even more amazing features this area has to offer. I love the ocean, and if the weather is nice, I will always be out on the water. To me, the ocean life here is one of the best scenic ocean places in New England and truly adds a one-of-a-kind experience to this community.
What are your goals for Winter 2021?
Continue to grow the presence of Supreme Lending in the area and enjoy spending time with family and friends this winter.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
I love going to Red36, Via Emilia, and Friar Tuck’s. But to be honest, all the food in mystic is unbelievable!
Contact Info:
Email: Brianna.turgeon@supremelending.com
Phone Number: (860) 625-5780
Social Media Handle: @loans.by.bri
Website: https://www.supremelending.com/start/?lar=briannaturgeon
Amy Chappel
Arbonne
What do you do?
I help people shift to a healthier lifestyle with plant-based products. I also empower women to be able to build their own health and wellness business through Arbonne. For example, I spoke to a woman and got her to carry Arbonne and by helping her, she was able to make more of an income for herself and her family. My favorite part is watching women grow, prosper and serve their families. You can do this alongside your current job or do what I did and start this journey full-time. It’s not just women, we also have men that sell but primarily it is women because of Arbonne’s beauty and skincare line. Additionally, many personal trainers get into Arbonne because Arbonne offers plant-based protein and more healthy options that are beneficial for fitness / health professionals. All and all, it’s a great product for everyone!
How did you get into this business?
I was always interested in health & wellness and learning about ingredients, especially when I was pregnant. A friend from church shared Arbonne with me and I got increasingly interested in health and the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle. At first, I was hesitant to start working for Arbonne, but I became more open to it and started sharing Arbonne with others and I enjoy watching the benefits and improvements in everyone’s lives.
I graduated from Brown University and was a chemist at a huge organization, but I could never do what I am doing now without Arbonne. Witnessing and being a part of people’s healthy journey with Arbonne shows the impact and value Arbonne can have on someone’s life, which is why I fell in love with the role as being a VP for Arbonne. This journey and path has been incredible and I am so happy to be doing something that matters to me and I am no longer just a number in a corporate setting. I help people feel better, lose weight, and it’s so nice and rewarding to see people’s lives change physically, mentally and financially.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love that it is quaint enough to run into people and see friends all the time, but it’s big enough where there are several events and activities that bring more people together. It’s a good mix of action and rural lifestyle. There is such a great community here and Mystic has a lot of great businesses that support each other very well.
What is something people don’t know about your business?
People don’t know that I was super embarrassed to tell people that I started working for Arbonne. But this business has been life changing and I am proud to work for a business that supports health & wellness.
What are your plans for Winter 2021?
My family is planning on doing a lot of skiing in CT and VT. We went to North Carolina for Christmas to spend time with my brother and his family. Also, my husband and are going to an MVP Leadership Training in Miami, FL. That will be a lot of fun!
What is new at Arbonne and what is your favorite product?
We just came out with a Keto friendly protein that is low carb. The Fizz drink is by far our most popular item because it is full of antioxidants. There are so many great products at Arbonne.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
This is tough as I like so many places. I really enjoy Sift and Authentic 1. Bravo Bravo is also deep to my heart as it’s the place where we celebrated our engagement and our first pregnancy. It’s a very sentimental and happy place for us!
Contact Info:
Lorraine Sanborn
Fabulous Begins at 50
What do you do?
I started my wellness journey with Isagenix the week I turned 72 in 2013. I wasn’t feeling good in my own skin and I needed to lose weight. I was healthy – no medications, no health issues and wanted to stay that way. I was looking for ways to better your health and maintain my health. I had been a widow and was my husband’s primary caregiver. I have two grandchildren and wanted to stay well and healthy to be part of their lives! After 25 years in the life insurance industry, I found people that I couldn’t insure because they had health issues. When I left the life insurance industry and went on my journey to better myself, I wish I had the knowledge and expertise to help guide those that I met back while doing insurance.
With my new turn to better myself I thought that others would benefit from the knowledge and expertise that I learned on my own journey and now I am helping others with their achieving their health goals. I help those that want to better their lives and eventually want to better their family lives. “I share the gift of life”
What do you love about Mystic?
I love everything Mystic! But I have to say, I love how I can be involved with the community and the Mystic Chamber. I am on two Mystic Chamber Committees and I am an established Ambassador for the Chamber. I truly enjoy connecting businesses and locals together and I enjoy getting to know everyone.
What is something people don’t know about your business?
There is a business opportunity with Isagenix! If people love the products, they can become a consultant or associate to advertise and sell Isagenix. I know a lot of people who came into this business to help bring in another source of income or they truly thrived and become a full-time consultant for Isagenix. This is a great opportunity for people to start their own business. Isagenix has a total support team on the corporate level as well as a social media level. There is a Private Facebook group that can help guide new consultants through the start of their business or even to those that are on their weight loss journey! Those people can be part of the group to share their milestones and wins with the group.
What are your plans for Winter?
This year, in December, I will be going on a trip to Mexico! My daughter entered a contest and won a 4 day trip to Mexico! She is bringing me with her as her guest to celebrate my 80th birthday – how lucky am I?!
In January, I will be going to phoenix for our company New Years’ Kickoff where all Isagenix Associates come together and learn about new products. This is also a great way to build relationships with other Isagenix relationships.
What is a fun fact about you?
One thing that highlights me as a grandmother, is that I will be traveling all around to watch my grandson compete in wrestling matches for college.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
I love Karma Kitchen – great spot to get healthy foods.
I also really like S&P and I love the roasted garlic at Daniel Packer Inne.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.isagenix.com/en-us/
Email: lorrainesanborn@gmail.com
Phone: (860) 235-0257
Joshua Penfield
Edward Jones
What do you do?
I am a Financial Advisor at Edward Jones and my job is to find out what is most important to my clients. I do a lot of financial planning, retirement planning, estate planning, college savings planning, life insurance, 401k rollovers and so much more! My primary focus is estate planning so that my clients feel taken care of for the future and feel comfortable knowing that their money and assets will safely get sent down to their family and loved ones.
How did you get into this business?
I had a lot of people in my family not prepare for retirement and I saw how much stress it put on my family members. I grew up watching my mom work two jobs, raise and care for a family. Since then, I wanted to help prevent others from going through the stress that my Mom had back in the day. Simply put, I just want to help people.
What do you love about Mystic?
The people, the history and to be honest, I don't mind getting stuck in downtown Mystic traffic. I enjoy being able to stop and window shop while in my car. The stores are all so intricate and pausing for those 10-15 minutes while the bridge is up is actually quite nice and it’s kind of a nice time to window shop and soak in the downtown area. I love seeing all the people walking around and enjoying this beautiful town. The school systems are also a huge plus for me – they have done an amazing job. I just joined the PTO and it’s a nice time to meet teachers, other parents and overall community. I also enjoy the fundraising aspect of the PTO, this is truly a great community to be in.
What is something people don’t know about you?
I make my own sterling silver jewelry and I also have a farm stand where I give out free vegetables to the community. I started this farm stand during COVID when I saw how many people were scared to go to the grocery store or any any place, for that matter. So I dug up 1/3 of my backyard and started harvesting my own vegetables and gave them out to those who wanted some fresh, local produce! This has really turned into a nice way to give back to the community and to meet others!
What are your goals for Winter 2021?
I would like to help 50 people reach their retirement goals. Again, helping people is a passion of mine and I want people to feel independent and confident in myself and in their own life choices.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
I really like Trove! It's such a cool men's store and there aren’t many men stores here so it’s a nice change. I also love Karma Kitchen. I go there almost every morning for a Smoothie Bowl – they are fantastic! The best part is that everyone in Karma Kitchen knows me by name and I know theirs. Having these interactions is what makes Mystic so cool, people get to know each other on a first name basis and that's such a special community feel.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/joshua-penfield
Email: joshua.penfield@edwardjones.com
Phone: (860) 790-3192
Address: 34 Water Street, Unit 4, Mystic, CT 06355
Diana Pearson
MysticFit24, Inc.
What do you do?
I have been a resident of the Mystic community for over 20 years. I am a mom of two awesome
and active young women and one very adorable French bulldog named Blueberry. I have
always been fascinated in the foundations of living a balanced life, which includes eating
nutritious foods along with having a fun, energetic lifestyle.
Recently, I completed a B.S. in Nutrition Sciences from the University of St. Joseph and have
been consistent in strength training and spinning. My knowledge of nutrition and willingness to
be coached by my fitness trainers have allowed me to be fit and active in so many favorite
activities that Mystic has to offer. Balance in my life brings me peace and happiness!
How did you get into the business?
Getting into the fitness business came from a love of being active, and constantly striving to
become better each year. The opportunity arose when several close friends, who come from all
different backgrounds, shared the same compelling desire to keep moving for health and wellbeing.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love the outdoor lifestyle of our quaint historic town. Especially being able to walk down River
Road or stroll into town for dinner (during every season). This keeps me feeling centered with
my community and with nature as well. There are so many access points to the Mystic River, it
is wonderful to see so many visitors come and experience boating, kayaking, and paddle
boarding.
What is something people don’t know about your business?
MysticFit24 is owned by a newly formed group of fitness geeks looking to create a community based gym which is easy to access and fun to be a part of. Fitness training can be challenging, and we are striving to eliminate some of those obstacles so that everyone’s schedule and fitness needs can be accommodated.
What are your plans for Winter 2021?
Our plans are to simply meet the community, create an energetic, diverse member following, and present a variety of opportunities for our members to achieve their fitness goals. We will be offering open gym space, group training classes, spin classes and private training sessions. We continually are “shopping” for additional gym equipment! Our newest equipment must have will be a Stairmaster!!
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
I most enjoy the small business culture of Mystic. Favorite businesses are the variety of yummy restaurants serving fresh, locally sourced food. I also appreciate all the marinas of Mystic and Noank that allow so many to experience our special community.
Contact Info:
Website: https://mysticfit24.com/
Email: train@mysticfit24.com
Phone: (860) 415-6505
Address: 14 Clara Drive # 4, Mystic, CT 06355
Felipe Puletini
AMA Dance Theatre
What do you do?
I’m the Founder/Director of AMA Dance Theatre, located here in Mystic. It is a specialized coaching program built to emphasize the individuality, artistry, and technique of each dancer. Students earn pre-professional certified training as well as pre-injury and health counseling classes, which help to build their confidence, technique, and dance repertoire. During our lessons, dancers are prepared for internationally recognized exams, auditions, and obtain stage experience participating in important performances, community outreaching, and ballet scholarship competitions.
AMA Dance Theatre’s excellence in teaching includes the AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE® National Training Curriculum, the Nan Giordano Certificate Program® in jazz technique, and the International Dance Council - CID/UNESCO’s International Certification of Dance Studies, a validation of teaching applicable all over the world.
How did you get into the business?
I started to dance when I was about 8 years old, back in Brazil. Then the passion turned into a career, so I had the opportunity to dance in tv shows, backup dancer for singers and Broadway shows. When I was 24 I moved to CT to finish my studies in dance, and after worked with Central CT State University and many local dance studios, but I felt a need in the Mystic community to have a pre-professional level dance studio, and to have a space that would give opportunity to talent kids also have a career in dance, so I started coaching a few students privately and now we have our ADT family around.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love everything about Mystic, but I think what moves me the most is the atmosphere of a small town that allows you to really connect with people and share experiences, and of course the beautiful fall scene.
What is something people don’t know about your business?
We have a social project that allows families who are not able to register their kid(s) to dance a chance to take part in our studio. The En Avant project gives one full scholarship for every 5 paid students that we have registered. We also have an Open Division that is designed for adults who want to get back into or always dreamed in starting dance, it’s never too late to start dancing!
What are your plans for Winter 2021?
Our winter plans are to grow our divisions in the program. There are three divisions – children, pre-professional, open division. We have a big show coming up next May and are looking for children who would like to start learning so they can be a part of the show. It is a full-length ballet production which consists of all ages and showcasing all the students in the production. The show is 2 acts and it will be about 2 and half hours with an intermission. Location is yet to be determined but we are really focused on getting more students to get them prepared for the May show.
What is currently happening at AMA Dance Theatre?
Right now, kids are preparing for the year end exams. This is school affiliated with the American Ballet Theatre National Ballet Curriculum. This exam is a dance exam where students exhibit their techniques and are evaluated by an examiner on their precession and strengths at their specific level. This exam determines their pass into the next level.
Besides everything, AMA Dance Theatre is affiliated with the international Dance Counsel and students can get am international certification of dance studies which allows them dance anywhere in the world!
Contact Info:
Email: amadancetheatre@gmail.com
Phone: (860) 501-5898
Address: 3175 Gold Star Hwy, #F2 Mystic, CT
Victor Santana
Real Estate Agent at Realty3CT
What do you do?
I’m a real estate agent at Realty3CT servicing Mystic, Stonington and New London County. I’ve summered in the Mystic area for years so I am very familiar with the area and the housing industry. I enjoy constantly connecting people with their dream home and I’m currently helping many people relocate from the cities to the beautiful Mystic area. My slogan is Real Estate. Insurance. Integrity.
How did you get into the business?
I have a background in selling home owner and auto insurance. I wanted to add upon the services I offer and decided to get my real estate license so that I could better support my clients with their real estate transactions. I have done insurance for 5 years and real estate for 3 years. I love what I do - it’s all about making connections and helping families find their forever home.
What do you love about Mystic?
I love the overall vibe down here. The fishing, the restaurants, the energy here in the summer time, the people, the boating around here… it’s all so great! I really enjoy the small town, community feel here in mystic. It’s such a supportive environment where everyone seems to look out for one another and everyone wants to see you succeed.
Also, the seafood down here is unreal. I love to cook what I catch and Mystic allows me to do continue this hobby.
What is something people don't know about your business?
I put so much time in finding that perfect home and making sure each transaction goes as smoothly as possible. I strive for the greatest customer satisfaction!
What are your plans for 2021?
To make more connections, to grow, to have a continued presence in Mystic and New London County.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
So hard to say! There are so many great places here in Mystic. I really enjoy Red36, Costello’s, Noank Shipyard, Pizzetta and Friar Tucks.
Contact Info:
Email: vicsantana@realty3ct.com
Phone: (860) 977-2703
FaceBook: @vic.santana.56
Instagram: vicsantanarealtyct
Linda Kennedy
Kennedy Therapeutics Massage and Fitness
What do you do?
I am a holistic wellness professional in business for almost 30 years providing massage therapy,
fitness training and nutrition consulting. I believe proper nutrition is the foundation of everything
related to our physical and emotional health, and provide natural vs. synthetic alternatives and
holistic nutrition and weight loss plans. My style of deep tissue massage therapy is orthopedic
and corrective in nature but done slowly so that it is deeply relaxing, followed by strength
training. I work with many people with chronic issues, helping them to regain the freedom of
movement they once had to pursue the things they love.
How did you get into the business?
As a lifelong dancer and athlete, my own injuries led me to discover the incredible value of deep
tissue massage. I knew I had a gift when my training clients started asking me for massage
sessions! I grew up eating organic foods before it was popular and was drawn to learn more
about nutrition when I competed in Figure competitions in 2004, scoring a win and feeling better
than I did in my 20’s. I still do, and that experience motivated me to coach others how to
improve their diet and feel better.
What do you love about Mystic?
I grew up here and nothing compares to its charm and deep history. I have lived in some great
cities (Boston, NYC, San Diego) and it’s been fun coming back to my roots and reconnecting
with lifelong friends and the community, many of them business owners. Mystic truly is a New
England Gem full of wonderful folks that give it that small-town yet other-worldly feel.
What is something people don't know about your business?
This is my third time relocating and starting over in business. Despite doing so in the middle of a pandemic, I kept visualizing exactly where I wanted to open my practice. The universe conspired and led me to connect with a high school friend who told me about the studio available in the building right where I envisioned it at Health In Harmony where I am now and I’ve been pretty busy.
What are your plans for 2021?
I’m looking forward to meeting other business owners in the Mystic area and seeing how we can help each other thrive in the community. I just joined great group of tennis players at the COMO in Stonington, and am planning to get back to my favorite sport of rock climbing.
What Mystic businesses are your favorite?
I love Yoga Shala - the owner Dechen and I went to high school together and she’s done a great job. Also S&P Oyster Company (Katherine and Jeremy run a great business), Adventure Mystic, Pennywise Consignment Shop (best selection), The Treehouse Oyster Club, Taquerio and so many others.
Contact Info:
Email: lindafitpro@gmail.com
Phone: (860) 245-9790
FaceBook: @KennedyMassage
Instagram: lindakennedylmtcscs
Walter "Sonny" Glaser
Steamboat Inn
What is your business and what do you do?
I am the owner and operator of the Steamboat Inn, an 11-room boutique inn located in
downtown Mystic. It is the only inn directly on the water at the drawbridge. I am also the property
manager for over 50 apartments and a dozen store fronts in Downtown Mystic.
How did you get into the business?
I started doing apartment rentals back in the 90’s on the side of my full-time career an Elevator
Manufacturer (G.A.L. Mfg.). In my free time I found I really enjoyed renovating existing
structures…restoring their integrity while honoring their historic value and tradition.
What is your business plan for 2021?
I have been repairing and updating the Steamboat Inn including new fixtures, paint, new
carpeting and window treatments. We are about 90% complete and we could not be happier
with the positive response we have already received from our guests.
As for the apartments, when tenants move out, we update each unit with new bathrooms,
kitchens, stainless-steel appliances, fresh paint, new Edison lighting and any other necessary
improvements. Lastly, I am purchasing a boat for the Steamboat Inn. She will be available for private charter and for an extension of the Inn.
Why did you choose Mystic?
I choose Mystic for its rich history of boating and boat building. I spent summers on the water cruising through this area and decided to make it my home.
What’s one thing no one knows about you, or your business?
This is my retirement. Before finding my place here in Mystic and with The Steamboat Inn, my family and I owned and operated one the largest, privately owned elevator manufacturing companies in North America.
What would you be doing if you weren’t doing this?
I would be skiing in the winter and boating in the summer…more than I do now. Traveling is a passion of mine.
What are your favorite things about Mystic?
The people of Mystic are down to Earth , so many I am proud to now call my friends. The boating here is amazing. The Wooden and Classic boat parades are second to none.
What are some of your favorite businesses in Mystic (besides your own!) and why?
The restaurants & breweries are great. I love the Seaport anytime of the year, the holidays and events are always special. The shops are so unique in downtown Mystic. Here are a few of my favorites: The Argia Sailing, Trove Men’s Provisions, Mystic Disc, Catherine M Women’s clothing, The Lamplighter Trading Co, and the Army Navy Store.
Contact Info:
Email: info@steamboatinnmystic.com
Phone: (860) 536-8300
73 Steamboat Wharf
Mystic, CT 06355
Alexandra Basile
Bare Bones Aesthetics
What do you do?
I am a licensed aesthetician, owner of Bare Bones Aesthetics Skin Spa on Pearl Street.
How did you get into this?
I have struggled with skin issues since adolescence. It consumed a lot of my attention and time. So when it came time to go to school I thought why not get to know the ins and outs of skin care, and use what I learn to help others with similar struggles.
Why Mystic?
I used to live in California. I came here two winters ago to visit a friend and ended up falling in love with Mystic. I didn’t know what spring and summer were like here until I moved and is so quaint and cute! When I made the decision to move away from California, I knew it had to be Mystic. I felt like it would be a good place to call home.
What are your plans for 2021?
I’d like to be able to deliver some sort of normalcy to everyone. When I opened in March of 2020, all of a sudden we weren’t allowed to see clients, we couldn’t do anything! So now with things opening up, it’s been nice to get back into it.
What is your favorite thing about Mystic?
Besides the people, there’s such a great sense of community here. I love that everything we need is right here in town: coffee, shopping, clothing, and more. Pearl Street is our own little neighborhood, we’re an extension of Main Street, a locals hidden gem.
What are your favorite businesses in town?
Leslie at Authentic 1, of course! When I first moved here I introduced myself to all the other business owners and everyone was so great and friendly. I would buy something small to show my support. I love the food at Shipwright’s Daughter, all the things at Adore, bagels and coffee from Lamplighter Trading Co. I love Lamplighter's story, that it meant so much to James, as a local himself, to keep Green Marble.
Any advice for new businesses?
Don’t give up! Doubt yourself, sure. I doubted what it could be and so many days I thought “What am I doing?” But no matter what’s going on in your personal life or even in a pandemic, don't give up! Dare to be vulnerable and keep that vision in your heart, know people are interested in you, what you have to offer is unlike anyone else.
Contact Info:
Email: hello@barebonesaesthetics.com
Phone: (323) 449-1621
Jason Cerniglia, CFP®, CRPC®, CMFC®
A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC.
What do you do?
First, I consider myself a Mystic native. I’m the owner and CEO of Coastal Wealth Management here in Mystic, which is a franchise of Ameriprise Financial. I am also a Certified Financial Planner and act as fiduciary for my planning and investment management clients.
How did you get into this business?
I was a double major at University of Connecticut, and chased after a little dream of my own after college; I played and taught golf professionally. Obviously, I didn’t make it onto the PGA Tour or I’d still be doing it...I was playing a round with a Smith Barney branch manager, and he mentioned that if I didn’t end up on tour, I might want to consider doing this. Similar techniques, working with people, teaching. So I pretty much started then.
What is your Business Plan for 2021?
With everything that happened last year, our business plan first and foremost is to steward our clients through what we hope will be the last stages of this pandemic, and make sure that they know their long term plan. We are back working in our Glastonbury and Mystic offices, but we are working on building our staff so we can reach “full employment.”
Also, we are lucky enough to be in a position where our clients refer us frequently, so through education and referral events, we’ll be taking opportunities to meet new clients and increase our client base.
Did 2020 change your clients’ mind about their financial future?
It’s an interesting thing. From a health and economic perspective, it was not a good year, but from a market and investment perspective it was. From someone who makes decisions based on numbers, it was a good year. Clients had to spend less, and client portfolios grew quite significantly.
Why did you choose Mystic for your business?
I grew up here, and I was lucky enough to start my business serving the Fortune 500 companies that are right here in Connecticut.
Who are your target customers?
A vast majority of our clients are executives and colleagues of about 4 or 5 large companies here and in the Greater Hartford area, those are the core of the practice. But since we have become a nationally recognized practice, we’ve attracted some endowments, and have started to advise some higher net worth families. One clients called because she saw us in the New York Times (on the Barron’s Top 1200 Advisor list).
What is something that no one knows about your business?
I had a mentor when I first started, and he gave me a great piece of advice which has served me incredibly well for the last 20 years. He said “A truly great financial advisor must have the mind of a capitalist and heart of a social worker.” The most important thing people can learn about our practice is that it is as much about the emotional as it is about the math.
What is your favorite thing about Mystic?
So many things! I grew up here on the water, on the beaches; we have twin 9 year-old boys. We fish together. My son Ryan is into sailing, son Conner does therapeutic horse riding. There are so many diverse opportunities for families with kids to take advantage of. Mystic has become a bit - I’ll say it - “tony;” it’s become a cool place to go, with great restaurants. I think it started when the Kardashians came. It’s been written about so much as the “seaside community that no one knows about” that now it’s the seaside community that everyone knows about!
What is your favorite Mystic business besides your own and why?
There’s quite a few - Big Y is awesome for us, it’s right around the corner, and they do a great job from a ‘bigger business’ perspective. We love all the shops downtown, we try to shop local. Red 36 is great for us to go to, we love to go out and sit on the river for dinner. Our boys are growing so we are always at Tidal River Clothing Co., we’ve bought so much there and exchanged there, they’ve been great.
What’s ahead for Coastal Wealth Management?
OPEN HOUSE!
C’mon down to our new building in Mystic at 56 Williams Ave in Mystic, say hello. We’re having an open house on June 3rd from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm, our roof deck will be open and we’ll be having an art show!
Coastal Wealth Management will also be hosting a Mystic Chamber Business After Hours on August 10th. Registration link to be sent out soon!
Jason's Achievements:
Forbes Best-in-State Wealth Advisors – 2018 - 2021
Barron’s Top 1200 Advisors State by State – 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021
Financial Times Top 400 Advisor – 2018 - 2020
Chairman’s Advisory Council - Top 90 Advisors at Ameriprise, 2017 - 2021
Contact Info:
Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC.
56 Williams Ave., First Floor
Mystic, CT 06355
O: 860.245.0251 | F: 860.245.0252
Email: jason.x.cerniglia@ampf.com
628 Hebron Ave., Ste. 301
Glastonbury, CT 06033
O: 860.430.1780 | F: 860.430.1121
Betsy Barry
Betsy Barry Art & Design
What do you do?
I’m an illustrator and trained in botanical illustration with the Society of Botanical Artists, UK .
I work primarily in colored pencils. I am moved by beautiful things that are around me. I love to draw flowers, plants shells, sticks, rocks… things that we see every day and often overlook. My shop is on the second floor on West Main Street in downtown Mystic where I sell my original art, prints, notecards and some gifts. I also offer zoom classes that vary month to month.
How did you get into this?
I’ve always been creating art of some sort. I have worked in many different mediums, but always went back to drawing.
Why Mystic?
We’ve been coming to Mystic as a family for years. I remember there was a store that carried marbles and my son would have to come and get a new marble each time… and visit the bookstore. Mystic became a destination for us! We’ve previously lived in Texas and Old Saybrook and then settled back in Old Lyme. It’s great to be back!
What would you be doing if you weren’t doing this?
Maybe teaching art in a school...or gardening all the time!
What are your plans for 2021?
Well I’m in the Mystic Outdoor Art Festival and the Old Saybrook Arts and Crafts show which is a summer show that was moved to October.
I offer monthly classes via Zoom and will be starting some in-person classes outside for the summer. I announce them on my website and via my monthly newsletter
What do you like most about Mystic?
Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream and Red 36 make me so happy.
I also like being distracted by people watching or hearing snippets of conversation on the street from my second floor studio!
What is your favorite business besides your own?
Well of course, Donna Williston, downstairs at Finer Line Gallery...I love Fatface, and S&P Oyster Co. as it’s my very favorite spot to sit outside in Mystic.
Contact Info:
Phone: (281) 825-7828
Email: betsybarrydesigns@gmail.com
Electric Boats LLC Duffy Boat Distributor
Robert & Angie Butler
What do you do?
We are the founding members of Electric Boats of CT, LLC - Marine Sales, Service & Consulting. We are an authorized dealer of Duffy Electric Boats covering the entire state of Connecticut. Duffy manufactures 3 sizes of electric pleasure crafts: in 16, 18, and 22 foot versions. I’ll describe them as surrey-topped golf carts on the water. With a 3.5 horse power engine, they are a no-wake pleasure craft perfect for family and friends to gather and enjoy the Connecticut boating lifestyle. We just moved to Mystic from California and are so excited to be starting this business. Right now we are head cook and chief bottle washer!
How did you get into this business?
At the beginning of COVID we temporarily moved in our travel trailer to the East Coast from California to be closer to our daughters. We got to see and enjoy the area, and fell in love with Mystic and a house on River Road! After purchasing a house on the river we thought, “It would be great to have a boat.” We knew we were interested in an electric boat and went down and talked to Duffy. When we found out they did not have a distributor in CT, we took it as an omen! We just finished relocating from California — where the Duffy lifestyle is a popular one. There’s a lot of similarities between the two locations and lifestyles, and we know the residents of Connecticut will grow to love 5 MPH cruising just as much as the electric boat owners on the west coast.
What are your plans for 2021:
There are two components that put us in a very unique position. First, after the past year, everyone is planning their getaways and discoveries in a new way. It is not about traveling the farthest or the fastest, but about spending time with loved ones who are close by. Duffy boats allow you to entertain up to 12 people in a safe, open, and relaxing environment. Second, there is a growing desire to move toward zero emission boating so that we can reduce our carbon footprint — and Duffy offers just that! We are also looking for ways to expose our product to the local community! Besides boat shows and other obvious channels, we are offering interested real estate professionals to allow clients to view their potential homes from the water.
Why did you choose Mystic?
In my previous life, I was a helicopter pilot. I flew people to Avalon, a city on Santa Catalina Island in the California Channel Islands. It is a beautiful town with a small close knit community of locals situated on a beautiful coast. In the summer, there are so many opportunities for recreation and play and, in the winter, it is cozy, quiet, and serene. Mystic affords that same type of lifestyle and the moment we arrived in this small town, we knew we were home.
What is one thing no one knows about your business?
People are always surprised when we get in the boat and get under way for a demo — you can’t hear anything. The engine is electric and mighty! You can cruise along the inland waterways and adjacent shorelines of the Long Island sound with ease. It is always nice to see how relaxed everyone is when they come in from a demo ride. But the quiet is an eye-opener, and everyone is really able to relax and unwind while on board.
Favorite Mystic Business?
We’ve been fortunate in discovering Mystic Shipyard. They’ve given us incredible support. They really helped to actualize the connection between the idea and the reality of Electric Boats of Connecticut. There’s been so much advice and resources. We will always feel blessed to have this relationship. And like the people of Mystic, the local businesses are all so supportive of each other. It is also nice to see how the chamber is so involved — it’s definitely different than any chamber we've been involved with over the years.
What is your favorite thing about Mystic?
We’re impressed with how much everybody helps each other. As we connect with the business community here, we’ve never had a conversation with someone who didn’t offer to refer us to someone within the business community who could help us accomplish whatever we were setting out to do.
Contact Info:
Phone: (860) 980-3759
Email: info@electricboatsct.com
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