After adding a new staffer, celebrating several Business of the Year honorees, and collaborating with Monroe Chamber colleagues on a Martini Madness event, the Newtown Chamber of Commerce is poised for a very busy year of supporting and promoting local merchants.The Newtown Bee, "It's an exciting time for the chamber - there are a lot of good things going on."Businesses Of The Yearhelenbrickfield@gmail.comAny chamber member, or any local business professional interested in learning more about the chamber and its programs, can reach Ms Brickfield by calling the chamber office at 203-426-2695 or e-mailing

Chamber president Tim Haas, CFP, told

Mr Haas and a number of active members officially welcomed Helen Brickfield to the new chamber position of business development director during a breakfast meeting April 5.

"The chamber board has been working hard to increase value to our membership, and Helen Brickfield is a good match for this new role," said Mr Haas. "She's got the business savvy and energy our members need to help members reach their business goals in Newtown. We can see the role expanding over time, as the chamber grows from catching her enthusiasm for small business success."

"I'm excited to reach out to our members and the community to share the chamber's value proposition to promote and encourage Newtown businesses," Ms Brickfield said. "Newtown is a wonderful place to live, work, and shop. And our energy and talents are the perfect mix for a flourishing business community."

Newtown Economic Development Coordinator Betsy Paynter said she and the Newtown Economic Development Commission "enthusiastically welcome Helen to the Newtown Chamber of Commerce."

"Helen will bring new energy and support to the chamber, enabling the organization to expand its outreach," Ms Paynter added. "I look forward to working with her to help strengthen the chamber and Newtown's business community. Together, the EDC and the chamber are committed to helping businesses thrive and succeed in Newtown."

After a two-month campaign, where hundreds of community members went on line to click and pick their favorite Newtown businesses, the Newtown Chamber of Commerce and Newtown Rotary Club recently announced their 2016 Business of the Year honorees.

The community was invited to vote for the business they felt was most deserving of each honor, consistently displayed excellence in the way they serve customers, and how they support Newtown.

While all nominees were given honorable mention, the top three nominees in each category were highlighted at an awards dinner and ceremony March 28 at the Newtown Country Club.

During the awards ceremony, guests viewed a slideshow featuring nominees and their contributions to the community. First Selectman Pat Llodra also appeared as the event's keynote speaker.

At the end of the night, winners were announced in four categories and representatives claimed their titles as the "Best Business in Newtown."

This year's winners are as follows:

*New Business: Café Xpresso

*Longevity: Newtown Hardware

*Philanthropy: Berkshire Motor

*Overall Achievement: Associated Refuse Haulers

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Newtown Chamber of Commerce President Tim Haas welcomed local resident Helen Brickfield to the new chamber position of business development director during a breakfast meeting April 5. Ms Brickfield will handle a number of responsibilities, including recruitment and membership retention. (Bee photo, Voket)