Tag Archives: Connecticut Business

Chelsea Groton Bank Approves $244K in Grants During Spring Giving Cycle

GROTON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- This spring, the Chelsea Groton Foundation provided $244,319 to 67 non-profit organizations from Connecticut and Rhode Island. Over 60% of the Foundation's approved funding went to organizations providing Health and Human Services, including critical needs such as healthcare, food, clothing and shelter.

A grant donation of $15,000 was provided to Lawrence & Memorial Hospital and $10,000 went to Westerly Hospital, both in response to decimation of resources caused by the pandemic. The Foundation gave a third consecutive grant in the amount of $15,000 to the Community Foundation of Eastern CT for the Neighbors for Neighbors Fund. Since last spring, the Foundation has given a total of $85,000 to the Fund. Operation Fuel was also the recipient of a third consecutive donation and has received a total of $22,500 from the Chelsea Groton Foundation since the pandemic began.

The Foundation was also able to support multiple organizations in the Arts and Culture and Youth Activities sectors, as they work towards a return to normalcy. Eastern Connecticut Ballet ($2,000), Avery-Copp House Museum ($1,500) and La Grua Center ($2,500) all received grants to assist in re-opening to the public for art and live performances. Both Girl Scouts of Connecticut ($3,000) and Muscular Dystrophy Association ($2,500) are welcoming campers back this summer, and Eastern CT Workforce Investment Board ($5,000) is running a summer employment program for low-income youth.

"We made a commitment early on in the pandemic to do whatever it took to support the non-profits in our area who make the community the wonderful place it is. We stand by that and are proud to be able to give to organizations that support basic human needs - hunger, homelessness and healthcare - as well as those that provide education, economic growth, arts and cultural experiences, and more, as we recover, together," shared Michael Rauh, President and CEO of Chelsea Groton Bank, and President of the Chelsea Groton Foundation. "In addition to our usual support, I'm happy to share that the Foundation's guidelines that were adjusted in 2020 will remain in place for this year. Some of the adjustments we made allowed organizations to change the purpose of the grant if the original purpose is no longer possible, and organizations are currently permitted to apply for funding two times in a calendar year. We hope these adjustments will allow more organizations to benefit in greater ways from the funding we have available."

The Foundation typically reviews applications and awards grants two times per year. Organizations who support critical needs are invited to apply for additional funding this year if needed, through the application on the Bank's website, chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.

Last year, Chelsea Groton Bank and the Chelsea Groton Foundation gave a record $1 million to the community in the wake of the pandemic. Each year, the Bank and Foundation support more than 300 local organizations through monetary gifts, grants, sponsorships, scholarships and employee volunteerism. More information, including a list of all spring grant recipients, is available at chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.

About the Chelsea Groton Foundation

The Chelsea Groton Foundation was formed in June 1998 as a Section 501(c) (3) organization. Initially endowed with a $2 million donation from Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation has, to date, awarded over $4.7 million in grants to hundreds of scientific, educational and charitable organizations located within the Bank's market area. To learn more, visit: http://www.chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.

About Chelsea Groton Bank

Based in Groton, Conn., Chelsea Groton Bank is a full-service mutually owned bank with over $1.4 billion in assets. Chelsea Groton Bank's products and services include consumer banking, business banking, mortgage and business lending, cash management, financial planning and financial education programming. With 14 branch locations throughout New London County and a Loan Production Office in Hartford County, Chelsea Groton Bank also provides online and mobile banking, 24-hour telephone banking, and nationwide ATM banking for individuals, families and businesses. To learn more, please visit https://www.chelseagroton.com/. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

This spring, the Chelsea Groton Foundation provided $244,319 to 67 non-profit organizations from Connecticut and Rhode Island. Over 60% of the Foundation's approved funding went to organizations providing Health and Human Services, including critical needs such as healthcare, food, clothing and shelter.

Related link: https://www.chelseagroton.com/

EPIC Adds William Schoenbach as Managing Principal

HARTFORD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that William Schoenbach is joining its growing Financial Services business.

Schoenbach brings a wealth of knowledge to his role, where he will focus on providing risk management and transactional risk services in the financial services sector. This includes family offices, private equity firms, hedge funds, business development companies, venture capitalists, special purpose acquisition companies, REITS, and centers of influence in the mergers and acquisition space. His experience in the Alternative Asset Management industry will bring added value to EPIC and its clients. Additionally, Schoenbach will originate and manage key relationships.

"We are thrilled that Bill is joining our Financial Services team. His deep understanding of our industry, combined with his focus on alternative asset managers and family offices, will be very additive to our business," said Philip Moyles, Chief Growth Officer and President of Financial Services. Schoenbach will report to Moyles, and joins as Managing Principal.

Schoenbach comes to EPIC from Aon in New York City where he held the position of Senior Vice President in its Financial Services practice. In this role, he focused on managing strategic relationships and driving new business growth in the financial services sector.

"The whole of EPIC will benefit from Bill's addition to the Financial Services team. We are excited to bring him onboard." said Tom O'Neil, President, EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants.

Schoenbach earned a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Michigan. He is a co-founder of the Urban Scholar Society, an active Tutor and TutorMate, and Board Member at Kick4Life.

William Schoenbach
wschoenbach@vanbridge.com
Phone: 908.591.6227

About EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants:

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail insurance brokerage, has more than 2,600 team members operating from more than 80 offices across the U.S., providing Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits, Specialty Programs, and Private Client solutions to clients. EPIC ranks among the top 15 retail insurance brokers in the U.S.

Learn more at: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

EPIC Insurance Brokers & Consultants, a retail property and casualty insurance brokerage and employee benefits consultant, announced today that William Schoenbach is joining its growing Financial Services business.

Related link: https://www.epicbrokers.com/

Promontory MortgagePath Adds Industrial Bank, Optus Bank as First MDIs, CDFIs in Its Minority-Owned Financial Institution Initiative

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage fulfillment services, announced Industrial Bank and Optus Bank as the first participants in its initiative to support community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs). The initiative is focused on expanding mortgage credit access in underserved communities. Washington D.C.-based Industrial Bank, a U.S. Treasury-certified CDFI and the oldest Black-owned commercial bank in the Mid-Atlantic region, is fully onboarded and began offering mortgages via Promontory MortgagePath's platform in April. South Carolina-based Optus Bank, a federally-designated MDI and U.S. Treasury-certified CDFI, is in implementation.

"Industrial Bank has been committed to helping families in our communities purchase homes, grow small businesses, and build wealth since 1934," said Industrial Bank President and CEO Doyle Mitchell. "Our partnership with Promontory MortgagePath will mean more people in our community will be able to purchase homes - the most important pillar to closing the wealth gap."

"For more than 100 years, Optus Bank has been fighting to counter racial disparities. We strive to build wealth for all customers, with a special focus on those impacted by the 400-year legacy of exploitation and racism," said Optus Bank President and CEO Dominik Mjartan. "Together with Promontory MortgagePath, our goal to create $100 million in Black wealth over the next 10 years is more attainable."

Promontory MortgagePath's program offers exclusive pricing, resources and joint marketing opportunities to participating institutions. These services help lower the barriers to entry into mortgage lending and allow these institutions to participate in the mortgage market profitably, with the overall goal of helping build long-term wealth in communities through increased homeownership. Participating institutions also gain access to Promontory MortgagePath's point-of-sale platform Borrower Wallet(r), technology-driven, U.S.-based mortgage fulfillment services and compliance support to accelerate their entry into the market and delivery of mortgage services. As a Community Development Bankers Association (CDBA) endorsed solution, Promontory MortgagePath is working with the CDBA to identify strategic partners to participate in the initiative.

Promontory MortgagePath founder and CEO and former Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig has been focused throughout his career on access to responsible credit and other mechanisms to give families a hand up.

"We are proud to support Industrial and Optus banks in driving homeownership in their communities," Ludwig said. "These community-focused financial institutions are the lifeblood of wealth-building opportunities for the customers they serve. CDFIs and MDIs are a critical component to addressing big societal issues - from unemployment to wage stagnation - facing so many communities. These problems are more acute for Americans of color. And this is why Promontory MortgagePath is such a supporter of these banks."

Ludwig is also the chair of The Ludwig Institute for Economic Prosperity, which is focused on the plight of lower- and middle-income Americans. Part of this effort is to shine a light on economic indicators, like unemployment and wages, that do not give an accurate view into the real economic situation of these Americans.

MDIs or CDFIs interested in learning more about becoming strategic partners in this initiative should contact Promontory MortgagePath Managing Director and Head of Bank Relations Paul Katz at paul.katz@mortgagepath.com.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for helping community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, visit https://www.mortgagepath.com/.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage fulfillment services, announced Industrial Bank and Optus Bank as the first participants in its initiative to support community development financial institutions (CDFIs) and minority depository institutions (MDIs).

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

2009 Summer Street in Stamford, CT Welcomes Three New Tenants: Choyce Peterson Exclusive Listing Agent

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced the successful completion of leases for three new tenants at 2009 Summer Street in Stamford, Connecticut. The Choyce Peterson agency team, Vice President Adam Cognetta and Associate Casey McKnight, has been the exclusive listing agent since 2020 representing the Landlord, The Field Group (TFG), in each transaction for 2009 Summer Street.

LaForte Financial Services, Regal Blu Pool & Spa, and Total Insurance Brokerage each recently signed leases for office suites. "We couldn't be happier with the results of our brokerage partners, Casey and Adam, and the tremendous job they've done in a very tough marketplace," said Mat Field, TFG Landlord Representative. "The majority of existing suites at 2009 Summer Street are less than 2,000 square feet, so we've been a preferred option for those tenants who don't want to be in a co-working space, or at home. Alternatively, we've been happy to accommodate circumstances where tenants need to relocate and right-size their space."

Cognetta said, "2009 Summer Street is a great downtown value in a clean, quiet, well-maintained building - the perfect environment to support smaller and growing businesses. The location offers walkability, convenience, and good access to I-95 and the Merritt Parkway."

This ADA-compliant property has only a few smaller suites available, some of which are built-out for light medical use. TFG has maintained its headquarters at 2009 Summer Street for 20 years and owns and manages a portfolio of commercial properties in the region.

For further information, please go to: https://www.choycepeterson.com/property/2009-summer-street

About The Field Group Commercial Real Estate

A family-owned commercial real estate firm with over 30 years in Fairfield County, Connecticut. They develop, manage, and lease commercial properties, and are always reviewing tenants and acquisitions across Connecticut and the neighboring states.

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, was founded in 1997 and has offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY. For corporate and healthcare-focused companies headquartered in Fairfield and Westchester counties, Choyce Peterson has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in Fairfield and Westchester counties as well as 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Adam Cognetta
Vice President
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8173
acognetta@choycepeterson.com

MULTIMEDIA:

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0527s2p-choyce-summer-300dpi.jpg

*Caption: Photo courtesy of The Field Group.

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced the successful completion of leases for three new tenants at 2009 Summer Street in Stamford, Connecticut. The Choyce Peterson agency team, Vice President Adam Cognetta and Associate Casey McKnight, has been the exclusive listing agent since 2020 representing the Landlord, The Field Group (TFG), in each transaction for 2009 Summer Street.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Energy Electronics Partner Up for Distribution of the Sonim RS60

MILFORD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Energy Electronics, the leading distributor of corporate communications devices in the U.S., announced that it has entered into a distribution agreement with Sonim Technologies Inc., the world's leading provider of ultra-rugged, water-submersible mobile devices.

The partnership will expand the distribution of the industry-leading Sonim RS80 SmartScanner tablet and RS60 SmartScanner handheld throughout North America.

The arrangement will greatly broaden the availability of Sonim's cutting-edge technology, according to Energy Electronics President and Co-Founder Yisroel Teitlebaum.

"We will now be able to serve and provide advanced tools to a broader range of clients through innovative technology in a space that is currently dominated by out-of-date analog solutions," Teitlebaum said. "Sonim's SmartScanner devices will revolutionize the way logistics are handled today."

The Sonim SmartScanner devices, which include a six-inch handheld (Sonim RS60) and an eight-inch tablet (Sonim RS80), have a wide range of advanced features and capabilities. The high-capacity multi-shift batteries, glove-friendly touch screens, and water and dust resistance can facilitate worker performance and efficiency. Thanks to their proven durability, the devices ultimately reduce the total cost of ownership (TCO) compared to other consumer devices. They also allow frontline workers to capture large amounts of data faster by enhancing barcode scanning capabilities.

About Sonim Technologies

Sonim Technologies is a premier provider of ultra-rugged mobility systems in the world. Their devices are specifically designed for task workers in mission-critical positions who are physically involved in demanding and hazardous work environments. Sonim mobile solutions consist of ultra-rugged cell phones, a suite of industrial-grade accessories, and data and workflow applications. Their products have been proven to improve worker productivity, connectivity and ensure on-site protection. For more information, visit the company website at http://www.sonimtech.com/.

About Energy Electronics

Energy Electronics is the country's leading distributor of communications devices for the corporate environment. Since their founding in 2014, they have become one of the most trusted providers of corporate logistics solutions in the United States.

Their streamlined operating structure allows them to transport inventory with speed and efficiency. In addition, their high-quality service helped them establish strong relationships with some of the industry's most prestigious suppliers. In turn, those partnerships have enabled them to respond to their clients' needs more closely.

Energy Electronics focuses on increasing efficiency within the workspace by delivering personalized services. They boast a steady 50% year-on-year growth based on the ability to produce results with precision and record timing.

*(LOGO 72dpi: https://energyelectronicsllc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Energy-Electronics-LLC-Logo-PNG.png )

Energy Electronics, the leading distributor of corporate communications devices in the U.S., announced that it has entered into a distribution agreement with Sonim Technologies Inc., the world's leading provider of ultra-rugged, water-submersible mobile devices.

Related link: https://energyelectronicsllc.com/

APTMetrics Relocates Headquarters to Westport, CT: Choyce Peterson Negotiates Long-Term Lease

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, recently announced the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on behalf of APTMetrics (www.aptmetrics.com) for a new 2,700 SF office at 320 Post Road West in Westport, CT. Choyce Peterson Vice President Adam Cognetta and Principal John Hannigan represented APTMetrics in this transaction.

When evaluating lease options for their space in Darien, CT, CFO of APTMetrics, Martin Kelly reached out to Mr. Cognetta and Mr. Hannigan for consultation. Mr. Cognetta and the Choyce Peterson team had led APTMetrics through multiple previous real estate transactions, including their existing HQ renewal in Darien and satellite office locations in Virginia, Georgia, and Illinois. Mr. Kelly explained that he was seeking to relocate their Fairfield County Headquarters office further north in the county to better align with the location needs of the on-site team and financial objectives of the business. Additionally, he wanted a high-quality building with easy access to I-95 and the Merritt Parkway, a custom build-out, and a landlord who would be receptive to their office-space needs.

After touring the available buildings throughout Fairfield, Southport, and Westport, Mr. Cognetta and Mr. Hannigan solicited proposals from numerous landlords. Ultimately, Mr. Kelly and his team decided on 320 Post Road West in Westport. This building had recently undergone extensive renovations and offered both a great location convenient to both I-95 and the Merritt Parkway, with an opportunity for a custom build-out within an efficient footprint. Mr. Kelly worked with a local architect recommended by Choyce Peterson to design a space that was thoughtfully laid out and aesthetically modern. The Choyce Peterson team negotiated a long-term lease with favorable financial terms for APTMetrics, including free rent and a custom build-out provided by the landlord.

Mr. Cognetta commented, "Over the past many years we have enjoyed a long-standing partnership with APT. For this particular transaction, APT asked us to direct our search in several boutique markets which, despite COVID, have experienced a continued tightening of availability. By focusing on the factors that mattered most to APT, we were able to short-list several unique, quality options and negotiate mutually beneficial terms that rendered this an all-around success."

Mr. Kelly concluded, "It's always a pleasure working with Adam and John - this headquarters office relocation was an important initiative for APT and Choyce Peterson again delivered outstanding professional service. They went out of their way to check every corner of the market and guide us toward an attractive, distinctive building and an office that perfectly accommodates our needs. We are thrilled to join the Westport community where we will continue to grow our business."

The landlord, 320 Post Road West Group, was represented by Senior Director Adam Klimek of Cushman & Wakefield.

About APTMetrics

APTMetrics is a national, full-service human resource consulting firm headquartered in Westport, CT. The company was founded in 1995 by Drs. Kathleen Kappy Lundquist and John C. Scott. APTMetrics is the only human resource consultancy firm that builds world-class talent solution and is nationally recognized for its employment litigation support services.

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions. http://www.choycepeterson.com/

MEDIA CONTACT:
Adam Cognetta
Vice President
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8173
acognetta@choycepeterson.com

MULTIMEDIA:
Photo link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0525s2p-320postrd-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Photo courtesy of CoStar.

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, recently announced the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on behalf of APTMetrics for a new 2,700 SF office at 320 Post Road West in Westport, CT. Choyce Peterson Vice President Adam Cognetta and Principal John Hannigan represented APTMetrics in this transaction.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

After, Inc. publishes a ‘Risk Management 101’ guide that gives Warranty Leaders a first-hand look at this complex discipline

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- After, Inc. a pioneer in the Warranty Services industry, has provided innovative warranty marketing, analytics, and program management solutions to top-tier manufacturing clients since 2005. In delivering program management solutions, After, Inc. found that few manufacturers understand Risk Management - yet it can be one of the most impactful aspects of Warranty Programs. So, After, Inc. prepared this guide to share the basics of the discipline, as there is nothing like it available in the industry today.

After, Inc.'s EVP, Paul Swenson, a highly respected veteran in the Warranty Services industry, helped develop this guide. "A lot of manufacturers and retailers 'don't know what they don't know' about available warranty risk structures and the true costs of risk transfer," said Swenson.

"Frequently, risk oversight is outsourced to companies that use old-school actuarial methods which don't forecast claims or reserves accurately - nor provide the business intelligence needed to optimize and expand the warranty programs. This leads to untapped opportunities that they may never discover or, often worse, unwarranted rate increases that have negative impacts on their programs and the ability to deliver a great customer experience. This guide is designed to give Warranty leaders and their teams a much-needed introduction to the basic concepts of Risk Management - and the impact that inaccurate claims forecasts can have on their profitability."

This "Risk Management 101" guide covers:

* Section 1 - the key components and definitions in Risk Management.

* Section 2 - types of risk structures and the pros/cons of each.

* Section 3 - how to accurately estimate losses and how errors can impact program profits.

* Section 4 - a case study on how After helped Polaris - a long-time client - develop a risk roadmap that led from a completely outsourced risk management structure to creating its own warranty company.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. ( http://www.afterinc.com/ ) is a pioneer in the warranty business - providing product registration, marketing, analytics, and program administration to warranty organizations across a wide range of industries. Founded in 2005, After has over 15 years of experience delivering innovative warranty offerings to manufacturing clients. After, Inc. partners with some of the world's top brands to help transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue/profit opportunities. Headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut, and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of the EPIC Insurance Group, an innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm with 3,600 employees across the United States.

MEDIA CONTACT
Danielle Grusso
203-254-5302
dgrusso@afterinc.com

After, Inc. a pioneer in the Warranty Services industry, has provided innovative warranty marketing, analytics, and program management solutions to top-tier manufacturing clients since 2005. In delivering program management solutions, After, Inc. found that few manufacturers understand Risk Management.

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

Chelsea Groton Bank Marks Year Defined by Pandemic As ‘Record’ In Every Way

GROTON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Chelsea Groton Bank reported impressive financial, educational, technical and community-based accomplishments at its 166th Annual Meeting which was conducted over Zoom on Tuesday, April 27, 2021. President and CEO Michael Rauh presented the Bank's 2020 results to Bank officers, Board members and Corporators.

"Our focus has always been on helping individuals, families and businesses succeed in big ways and small by putting more effort into everything we do. Our team was incredibly focused on the needs of our customers, and doing whatever it took to help them succeed in the most challenging circumstances," shared Rauh. "The result was a banner year from a financial perspective, but more importantly, a year where we were everything a community bank is meant to be - a team of local people working tirelessly to ensure the people, businesses and organizations in our community are better positioned to be successful."

Chelsea Groton Bank helped almost 600 businesses obtain nearly $74 million in SBA Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, more than any other lender in the area. The Bank also developed a Small Business Relief Loan program for businesses in need of additional funding as they worked to recover from the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Inclusive of the $74 million in PPP loans, the Bank's commercial loan portfolio grew to $259 million, as Chelsea Groton continued to provide credit lines, term loans, permanent commercial mortgages, and construction loans to businesses across Connecticut and Rhode Island.

The Bank proudly provided more residential financing than any bank, credit union or broker in Eastern CT in 2020.* In spite of the challenging financial year for many, the dream of homeownership came true for 155 first-time homebuyers. The Bank approved a total of 908 first mortgage loans, more than twice the number of first mortgage loans closed in the year prior. Dedicated to helping people provide housing for themselves and their families, Chelsea Groton originated $5 million in CHFA loans for 30 low-to-moderate income individuals, and worked one-on-one with furloughed homeowners who were unable to make their monthly payments to offer fee forgiveness and loan deferments.

The Chelsea Groton Foundation and Bank together donated a record $1 million to the community in 2020, in response to the increased need across organizations in many giving categories. The Foundation also gave over $22,000 to area organizations through the Acts of Kindness program, $100 to the non-profit of each team member's choice. While some volunteer opportunities shifted during the pandemic, Bank team members still volunteered 3,678 hours of their time.

The Chelsea University community education program pivoted to offer programming entirely online in mid-March. Over the course of the year, customers and community members attended 166 classes on everything from credit and home-buying, to social security and Medicare, as well as classes for the aspiring and current business owner. Lifestyle programming, including a Chelsea Cooks! series, virtual yoga, and crafting events were also offered online. For community members unable to attend online classes, additional resources are always available on the Bank's E-learning Center, and recorded classes are on the Chelsea Groton YouTube page.

As of December 31, 2020, the Bank's total assets increased to $1.4 billion. Net operating income was virtually unchanged, dropping slightly, from $13,233,721 to $13,095,912 in 2020. There was a $16 million increase in capital from 2019.

"All of the Bank's success in 2020 was made possible by two big things - a dedicated team that showed an unwavering commitment to the Bank's customers and community members during this time of great need, and advanced technology that was built with a focus on bringing people and digital together," expressed Rauh.

Prior to the pandemic, the Bank deployed a system that enabled the entire staff to work entirely remotely if there was ever the need. Chelsea Groton proudly introduced Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking ATMs and a Video Banking App, giving customers the opportunity to talk live with the local banking team during extended hours when at many of the Bank's ATMs or from the convenience of the customer's phone, tablet or computer. Mobile Wallet was also rolled out, allowing customers to connect their Chelsea Groton Debit Card to Apple Pay(r), Google Pay(tm) or Samsung Pay.** The Bank continues to offer interpreter services over the phone and in person. Each of these services has helped customers manage their finances more effectively, especially as people were looking to conduct their banking safely in a more remote world.

Forbes included Chelsea Groton Bank on the "America's Best-In-State Banks" list. The Bank was once again voted "Best Bank" by the readers of The Day (2015-2020), a "Top Workplace" in the Hartford Courant based on an employee survey (2016-2020), and the "Best Place to Work" by the Eastern CT Chamber of Commerce. BauerFinancial, an independent bank rating service, awarded Chelsea Groton their "5 Star" designation for financial stability and exemplary excellence for the 107th consecutive quarter, maintaining Chelsea Groton as a "Best of Bauer" bank.

"Over the last few years, the Bank has focused on taking a consultative approach to working with every person who comes through the door," said Rauh. "We were thrilled this year to be able to offer new technologies, or more frequently utilize the ones we had, in order to provide customers with options to bank when, where and how they felt was safest or most convenient for them. Chelsea Groton will never lose sight of the importance of human interaction to truly serve our customers' needs. We're excited that many of our new technologies bring the personal and digital experience together, in order to do just that."

View the Chelsea Groton 2020 Annual Report video and financials.

At this year's meeting, Bank officials also announced the appointment of four new Corporators:

Wendy Bury of Stonington, CT: Wendy is the Founding Executive Director of the Southeastern Connecticut Cultural Coalition and the Founding Executive Director of La Grua Center, Stonington. She serves as the Policy and Issues Committee Chair for CT Arts Alliance, Trustee of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut, Board Member of Southeastern CT Enterprise Region (seCTer), Dept. of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Regional Recovery Steering Committee Member and Co-Chair of the Lamont/Bysiewicz Transition Arts, Culture and Tourism Policy Committee. Wendy also founded the Stonington Nonprofit Roundtable. She graduated from Colgate University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and Case Western Reserve University with a Master's degree in Art History.

Shiela Hayes of Norwich, CT: Shiela is the President of the NAACP Norwich Branch and is a Founding Member and Secretary of Sankofa Education & Leadership, Inc. She is a Corporator at Norwich Free Academy, member of the Norwich Area Clergy Association and the Rotary Community Corps of Norwich. She previously served as secretary for the City of Norwich, Ellis Walter Ruley Committee Secretary, the 150th Anniversary of the City of Norwich Emancipation Proclamation Committee and the City of Norwich Semiseptcentennial (350th) Celebration. Shiela is a recipient of the 2019 Ron Aliano Service to the Community Award, the 2017 Lottie B. Scott Diversity Award, Paul Harris Fellow from the Rotary Club Norwich #6747 and the 2009 Connecticut Council of Family Services Agencies Family Champion Award. She graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems & Accounting and Rensselaer at Hartford with a Master's degree in Management.

Suki Lagrito of Norwich, CT: Suki is a local entrepreneur and liaison for Global City Norwich (NCDC's Downtown Revitalization Program). She is a Board Member of Norwich Rotary Club, and member of Norwich Public Schools Equity Committee, Norwich Adult Education Advisory Board, and Rose City United.

Larry Rivarde of Groton, CT: Larry is the Chief Operating Officer at Mystic Aquarium. He is a Board member for ZCOG (Zoo Conservation Outreach Group) and member of ZBPWG (Zoo Best Practices Working Group and AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums), where he also serves as a mentor for the AZA's 2017-21 ELDP (Executive Leadership Development Program). He previously served on Xavier University's Business Advisory Council and AZA's Safety & Diversity Committees. Over the years, he has facilitated many Diversity, Equity and Inclusion training workshops. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Xavier University New Orleans, and an MBA in Finance and Accounting from Tulane University.

*The Warren Group, Inc. Mortgage Marketshare Module Report- All Residentials, All Regions in New London and Windham Counties, CT Annual 2020

**Apple, the Apple logo, Apple Pay, iPhone, TouchID and FaceID are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

Google Pay and the Google logo are trademarks of Google LLC. (c)2018 Google LLC, used with permission. Google and the Google logo are registered trademarks of Google LLC.

Samsung Pay and the Samsung logo are trademarks of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.

About Chelsea Groton Bank

Based in Groton, Conn., Chelsea Groton Bank is a full-service mutually owned bank with over $1.4 billion in assets. Chelsea Groton Bank's products and services include consumer banking, business banking, mortgage and business lending, cash management, financial planning and financial education programming. With 14 branch locations throughout New London County and a Loan Production Office in Hartford County, Chelsea Groton Bank also provides online and mobile banking, 24-hour telephone banking, and nationwide ATM banking for individuals, families and businesses. To learn more, please visit www.chelseagroton.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS Institution ID 402928.

Chelsea Groton Bank reported impressive financial, educational, technical and community-based accomplishments at its 166th Annual Meeting which was conducted over Zoom on Tuesday, April 27, 2021. President and CEO Michael Rauh presented the Bank's 2020 results to Bank officers, Board members and Corporators.

Related link: https://www.chelseagroton.com/

Energy Electronics Enlists the Saber Team Digital Marketing Firm

MILFORD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Energy Electronics has announced that it has hired the Saber Team to expand their online operations through comprehensive SEO and digital marketing strategies. This move highlights Energy Electronics' mission of further establishing its already significant market presence and reaching an even larger customer base.

Energy Electronics is the premier distributor of corporate communications devices in America. It's a multi-faceted organization that's become a dominant player in the business communications sphere through the wholesale distribution of electronic devices that solve various logistic issues.

Established in 2014, Energy Electronics has quickly become a leading source for U.S. corporate logistic solutions. Their technological expertise, coupled with high quality of service, has enabled the company to foster fruitful collaborations with well-known names in the industry, including Sonim, Samsung, Alcatel, Motorola, LG, and OnePlus. The source of such impressive connections is the organization's consistently outstanding user experience. This has led to a need for advanced online marketing, which is why they have partnered with the Saber Team.

The president of the Energy Electronics, Yisroel Teitelbaum, is confident that the Saber Team will help Energy Electronics boost its operations. "The industry of corporate communication devices is rapidly shifting to an online setting. Which is why establishing a powerful web presence is more important than ever," said Yisroel. "The Saber Team are seasoned experts in marketing and internet branding, and we have no doubt our collaboration will be highly successful."

The Saber Team partnership isn't the only major partnership Energy Electronics has established recently. They've also been collaborating with Sonim and have begun distributing their cutting-edge smart scanners and mobile computers, the Sonim RS60 and Sonim RS80. "The company is confident that these models will be flying off the shelves as soon as they hit the market," Teitelbaum said, "and there's no one better to help us with the promotion than the Saber Team."

Established by Shmuel Aber in 2010, the Saber Team is a marketing and web development company based in Long Island. The organization specializes in Google SEO, digital marketing, and high end website development. The business consists of a highly knowledgeable team of SEO technicians, graphic designers, and code developers and they utilize proprietary techniques to help businesses improve their google rankings.

The Saber Team exhibits outstanding attention to detail and expertise, which has helped them become an industry leader. It's one of the most renowned organizations on the SEO stage, providing premium services for a wide range of businesses. The Saber Team employs state-of-the-art marketing research and SEO strategies to ensure the success of each client.

Aber is extremely excited about the upcoming project. "Here at the Saber Team, we are eager to provide our services to Energy Electronics. God willing, we will be implementing our three-tier strategy that will bring even more popularity to Energy Electronics, and propel them to the top of the business communications vertical."

More information: https://energyelectronicsllc.com/

About Energy Electronics LLC:

Energy Electronics is America's premier distributor of corporate communications devices. Founded in 2014, they've quickly grown to become one of the leading sources for corporate logistic solutions in the US.

They've perfected a streamlined system of operations that enables them to move product quickly and efficiently. Their quality of service has helped them cultivate relationships with some of the biggest manufacturers in the business, and they use it to leverage their connections to directly benefit their customers.

At Energy Electronics, it's all about providing personalized service and increasing productivity. Their ability to deliver precise and expedited results is just one reason why they continue to grow 50% year on year.

*(LOGO 72dpi: https://energyelectronicsllc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Energy-Electronics-LLC-Logo-PNG.png )

Energy Electronics has announced that it has hired the Saber Team to expand their online operations through comprehensive SEO and digital marketing strategies.

Related link: https://energyelectronicsllc.com/

Long Island Sound Views: 13,990 SF Office Space Sublease at 383 Main Avenue, Norwalk, CT Represented by Choyce Peterson

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a 13,990 square foot office suite available for sublease in the MerrittView building at 383 Main Avenue in Norwalk, CT. Choyce Peterson Principal John Hannigan, Vice President Adam Cognetta, and Vice President Charlene O'Connell comprise the brokerage team.

MerrittView offers a full range of amenities which include a newly renovated fitness center and cafeteria, ample covered parking, shuttle service to the South Norwalk and Merritt 7 train stations, 24-hour attended access, and an expansive Executive Conference Room. In addition, the MerrittView building provides a convenient location at Exits 40A/B on the Merritt Parkway and 3 miles to Exit 15 of I-95.

The office space is located on the 7th floor, offering expansive views across Norwalk and Long Island Sound. The recently renovated space incorporates 22 offices and an open area for 34 workstations. There are also three conference rooms, a new kitchen, and if requested, furniture. The sublease term is through September 2025, and the landlord, Empire State Realty Trust, is open to a direct deal as well.

Hannigan commented, "We are pleased to represent a nicely-appointed suite with an abundance of offices and conference rooms; coupled with furniture, this presents a tremendous value for prospective tenants. As a tenant ourselves in the building for over six years, we have experienced first-hand the positive attributes of this professionally run, Class A building which offers top tier amenities with great highway and train access."

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more: https://www.choycepeterson.com/property/383-main-ave

MEDIA CONTACT:
John Hannigan
Principal
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8175
jhannigan@choycepeterson.com
www.choycepeterson.com

MULTIMEDIA:

IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0429s2p-MerrittView-300dpi.jpg

Photo courtesy of CoStar with permission from ESRT.

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a 13,990 square foot office suite available for sublease in the MerrittView building at 383 Main Avenue in Norwalk, CT.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Paragon Insurance Names Christian Phillips as President of Contingency Practice

AVON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC, a national multiline specialty managing general agent (MGA), has named Christian Phillips as President of its newly created Paragon Contingency Practices.

Phillips joins Paragon following many years at London-based specialty insurer, Beazley. With experience spanning three decades, he is a tremendous asset to Paragon clients, particularly given the global upheaval in the marketplace in 2020.

Phillips will play a pivotal role in this dynamic market environment, as event cancellations related to COVID-19 have severely impacted established contingency business underwriters. "As we continue through the balance of 2021, we expect to see the contingency market rebound," noted Paragon CEO and Co-founder, Ron Ganiats. "We are excited to welcome Christian to the Paragon team to help our clients navigate these improving market conditions."

The Paragon platform will enable Phillips to bring capacity and coverage solutions to a contingency insurance market that has experienced a large amount of contraction over the past 12 months. These solutions will help venues recover in the wake of losses incurred from the closure, rescheduling and cancellation of local, national and international sporting, entertainment and industry events.

About Paragon

Paragon, a broadly diversified MGA launched in 2014, provides unique opportunities and solutions to retail agents, insurance carriers, reinsurers and vendor partners. The firm writes all commercial lines of insurance across more than 20 insurance programs.

Visit https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/ for additional information.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Betsy Van Alstyne
Betsy.vanalstyne@epicgroup.com

*PHOTO link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/21-0426s2p-Christian-Phillips-300dpi.jpg

Paragon Insurance Holdings LLC, a national multiline specialty managing general agent (MGA), has named Christian Phillips as President of its newly created Paragon Contingency Practices.

Related link: https://www.paragoninsgroup.com/

Oregon Bankers Association Subsidiary Endorses Promontory MortgagePath’s Mortgage Fulfillment Services, Digital Mortgage Platform

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage fulfillment services, announced today Synergy by Association, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) has officially endorsed its mortgage fulfillment services and proprietary point-of-sale technology Borrower Wallet®.

"We are so pleased to promote the Promontory MortgagePath solution to banks in Oregon," said OBA President and CEO Linda Navarro. "Offering home loans is a challenge for many community banks given costs and compliance requirements. Our partnership with such a reputable partner will shed light on a solution that enhances what a community bank can offer to customers - a modern and efficient mortgage experience."

Promontory MortgagePath was founded with a commitment to empowering community financial institutions to participate profitably in mortgage lending by offering a faster, simpler and more-inclusive mortgage process. By leveraging Promontory MortgagePath's digital mortgage platform and comprehensive fulfillment services, community banks benefit from increased efficiencies and a scalable business model while offering their customers a modern digital mortgage experience. Promontory MortgagePath's founder and former federal regulator, Gene Ludwig, has been committed to community- and regional banking for decades, focusing his post-government professional career on improving the competitive posture of community banks with an emphasis on compliance.

"Our approach is to deliver an exceptional borrower experience with intuitive technology while expanding the reach of our lending partners in their communities," said Paul Katz, managing director and head of bank relations at Promontory MortgagePath. "Our enhanced mortgage platform and flexible staffing model enables lenders to grow their franchise while reducing costs and offering a full suite of loan products."

About Oregon Bankers Association

Established in 1905, the Oregon Bankers Association is a full-service trade association with a membership that includes state and national commercial banks, savings banks and trust companies doing business in Oregon. The mission of the OBA is to be the voice of Oregon banking.

The Oregon Bankers Association serves a dynamic, innovative and community-minded industry. The competitive nature of banking gives Oregonians and Oregon businesses a wide variety of choices for their financial services. In our collective endeavors, the Oregon Bankers Association and its members strive to ensure that Oregon remains a great place to do business and a great place to do banking. To learn more, visit https://www.oregonbankers.com.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for helping community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, visit https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage fulfillment services, announced today Synergy by Association, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Oregon Bankers Association (OBA) has officially endorsed its mortgage fulfillment services and proprietary point-of-sale technology Borrower Wallet®.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

Promontory MortgagePath Named One of the Best Places to Work in Financial Technology

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage origination and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced today it has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Financial Technology in 2021. The awards program was created in 2017 and is a project of Arizent, which includes American Banker, and Best Companies Group.

"We believe strongly in the importance of community and regional banking and in increasing access to homeownership, to include underserved communities. When your mission is service-oriented, you tend to attract like-minded individuals to the team," said Promontory MortgagePath CEO and Founder Gene Ludwig. "We have a truly collaborative, people-first culture where everyone from our technologists, coders, and programmers to our senior mortgage-industry and compliance veterans work alongside each other in pursuit of this shared vision."

This annual survey and awards program is designed to identify, recognize and honor the best employers in the financial technology industry. Companies recognized on this year's list operate in and serve companies and consumers in a wide range of financial services including banking and mortgages, insurance, payments and financial advisory.

"Promontory MortgagePath's greatest asset is our workforce, and in the midst of an unprecedented year for the mortgage industry, our team quickly pivoted to adjust to the unique operational challenges created by the pandemic in order to ensure the success of our clients," said Promontory MortgagePath Chief Operating Officer Debora Aydelotte. "Given this award is driven by our own employee survey responses, we are incredibly proud to be recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Financial Technology not only by Arizent, but also by our internal team."

"This year, the fintech industry became a larger and more important sector of our economy," said David Evans, chief content officer at Arizent. "This ranking helps highlight companies that have generous employee policies and positive cultures, and can help serve as a guide to job seekers in this competitive industry."

The 2021 list was published by Arizent brands American Banker, National Mortgage News, PaymentsSource, Financial Planning and Digital Insurance. To be considered for participation, companies must provide technology products, services or solutions that enable the delivery of financial services. Companies must also have been in business for at least one full year and employ at least 15 people in the U.S.

Companies from across the United States entered a two-part survey process to determine Arizent's Best Places to Work in Financial Technology. The first part consisted of evaluating each nominated company's workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part consisted of an employee survey to measure the employee experience. The combined scores determined the top companies and the final ranking. Best Companies Group managed the overall registration and survey process, analyzed the data and determined the final ranking.

For more information on Arizent's Best Places to Work in Financial Technology program, including full eligibility criteria, visit www.BestPlacestoWorkFinTech.com. To learn more about open positions at Promontory MortgagePath, visit mortgagepath.com/careers.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly-changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for their ability to help community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage origination and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced today it has been named one of the Best Places to Work in Financial Technology in 2021. The awards program was created in 2017 and is a project of Arizent, which includes American Banker, and Best Companies Group.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

Chelsea Groton Bank, in Partnership with NCDC and GNACC, Offers Free Online Business Seminars for Local Entrepreneurs

GROTON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Chelsea Groton Bank kicks off their 8-week "CU Grow: Online Small Business Bootcamp" on April 1, 2021. The FREE small business series, designed for aspiring and established entrepreneurs, is offered through the Bank's financial education program, Chelsea University, in partnership with the Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC) and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce (GNACC). Participants will walk away with a wealth of knowledge and a strong foundation for starting or growing a business.

"Chelsea Groton Bank is passionate about helping turn dreams into realities for businesses of all types. In addition to providing custom financial solutions, we proudly offer informational programs throughout the year to arm business owners with the tools they will need to be successful," shared Miria Gray, AS, Community Education Officer at Chelsea Groton Bank. "As so many business owners learned in 2020, it is critical for businesses to have their financial house in order and be able to market their services. These are just a few of the topics that will be covered throughout the series."

The instructor-led curriculum was developed jointly by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Each class will be delivered by Chelsea Groton Bank team members and local professionals to provide aspiring or current small business owners a practical introduction to aspects of starting and managing a business.

All classes will meet online on Tuesdays from 12-1 PM and Thursdays from 6-7 PM in April and May. Class topics are: Is Owning a Business Right for You?, Banking Services, Business Plans, Public Speaking and Networking, Record Keeping, Risk Management, Credit for Businesses, Time Management, Organizational Types, Small Business Insurance, Financial Management and Cash Flow, Social Media Marketing, Tax Planning and Reporting, Websites, Emails and SEO, Chat with the Experts, and Using Adobe Spark to Create Videos. Community members are invited to register for individual classes or the entire series. Registration is required in order to receive log-in credentials for each class.

To learn more and to register, visit http://www.chelseagroton.com/ChelseaUniversity.

About Chelsea Groton Bank

Based in Groton, Conn., Chelsea Groton Bank is a full-service mutually owned bank with over $1.4 billion in assets. Chelsea Groton Bank's products and services include consumer banking, business banking, mortgage and business lending, cash management, financial planning and financial education programming. With 14 branch locations throughout New London County and a Loan Production Office in Hartford County, Chelsea Groton Bank also provides online and mobile banking, 24-hour telephone banking, and nationwide ATM banking for individuals, families and businesses. To learn more, please visit chelseagroton.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS Institution ID 402928.

Chelsea Groton Bank kicks off their 8-week "CU Grow: Online Small Business Bootcamp" on April 1, 2021. The FREE small business series, designed for aspiring and established entrepreneurs, is offered through the Bank's financial education program, Chelsea University, in partnership with the Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC) and the Greater Norwich Area Chamber of Commerce (GNACC).

Related link: https://www.chelseagroton.com/

Choyce Peterson To Represent Three Retail Spaces In The SoNo Collection

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced that Brookfield Properties has appointed Choyce Peterson as the exclusive listing agent representing three separate spaces at The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water Street in Norwalk, CT. The mall's tenants include Nordstrom, Bloomingdale's, H&M, Untuckit, Arhaus, EQ3, YardHouse, and Pinstripes Bistro.

Choyce Peterson Vice President Adam Cognetta stated, "We are excited to partner with Brookfield Properties in representing these unique spaces in what has been, and continues to be, a prominent project in Connecticut. These spaces represent high-visibility opportunities for users to leverage strong area demographics, all while benefitting from dedicated entrances. This is truly an unparalleled opportunity to join an impressive tenant roster in a first-class, destination shopping center."

The first retail space is 2,442 SF on well-trafficked West Avenue, with a private entrance accessible via a walkway directly from the road and parking garage. It offers high ceilings and significant signage opportunities. The second space is 3,485 SF on N. Water Street with notable outward-facing window frontage. The third space is 3,625 SF also on N. Water Street with high ceilings, exceptional visibility from the road, and the potential for a dedicated parking area.

All three spaces are available immediately with a build-to-suit option which can accommodate a wide variety of consumer-centric commercial businesses such as entertainment, retail, medical, service, and office. There are dedicated entrances to each of these retail spaces, which do not require the use of the shared mall entrances. This unique shopping site features abundant parking and is easily accessible from Exit 14 off I-95, a major roadway traveled by 129,000 cars daily.

Matthew Seebeck, Senior General Manager of the SoNo Collection responded, "We look forward to working with Adam and the Choyce Peterson team in managing the leasing efforts for these three spaces. We are confident their energy, creative approach, dedication and experience will yield strong leasing activity."

About Brookfield Properties

Brookfield Properties is a fully-integrated, global real estate services company, providing industry-leading portfolio management capabilities across the real estate investment strategies of Brookfield Asset Management - a global alternative asset manager with approximately $600 billion in AUM. Brookfield Properties develops and manages premier real estate with a focus on maximizing the tenant experience in addition to the investment and operational performance of the asset. We also focus on integrating leading-edge real estate technologies which enables us to be at the forefront of innovation and sustainability - benefiting not only our tenants and business partners, but also the communities in which we operate. For more information about our approach to operating and developing best-in-class real estate, please visit brookfieldproperties.com.

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more at: https://www.choycepeterson.com/property/sono-collection

Twitter: @choycepeterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced that Brookfield Properties has appointed Choyce Peterson as the exclusive listing agent representing three separate spaces at The SoNo Collection, 100 N. Water Street in Norwalk, CT.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

The Lower Third Productions, LLC Presents: Today Show Host Craig Melvin Remembers Late Brother in Interview – Touching (and Hilarious) Final Moments Revealed

WESTPORT, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- On December 9 of 2020, Craig Melvin, a news anchor on the Today Show, lost his forty-three-year-old brother, Lawrence Meadows to colon cancer. Weeks later, Craig sat down with "Ten Minutes With Brian Kelsey" talk show host, Brian Kelsey, for an off-the-wall interview, oddly enough, in Brian's driveway. The result was nothing short of heartwarming and surprisingly humorous as well.

Prior to the interview, as Brian took care of some unfinished business, Craig warmed up outside, literally. He was accommodated with a lawn chair and glass of bourbon next to a makeshift fire pit out on the driveway. Craig didn't seem to mind.

Normally, Brian conducts his interviews in the garage. But, due to COVID-19 precautions, the driveway was deemed to be a safer setting.

Initially, Craig and Brian swapped COVID-19 stories and Brian brought up an emotional moment for Craig concerning the virus that was caught on tape. Craig called himself a 'mush-ball' and commented that his personal belief is that if the news doesn't affect a journalist, they need to look for another job. He admitted to, at times, wearing his heart on his sleeves.

After throwing another log on the fire (again, literally), it was onto a deeper, more serious subject, the death of Craig's older brother who was a minister. While Craig was notably shaken by the loss as the two were extremely close, he managed to recall some very funny stories which he told. Through his sorrow, Craig has not lost his sense of humor. One gets the feeling that is exactly how his late brother would want it to be.

Craig has been a co-host for the Today Show since 2018. His wife, Lindsay, is also a journalist. They have two young sons. Prior to the Today Show, Craig worked at MSNBC and other television networks as well. He is especially close to fellow journalist Bryant Gumbel.

Brian founded his quirky talk show, "Ten Minutes With Brian Kelsey", when he turned a crazy, but innovative, idea into reality. It all began when Brian started working for Howard Stern as a writer, producer, and the actual 'voice' of Stern. Even though he was the host of a four-hour regularly scheduled talk show on Martha Stewart Living Radio, had a short running spot with a home renovation show on NBC, and has made numerous appearances on shows like the Today Show, the former radio show host, craved more. One thing led to another until a dream was born. He debuted a one-of-a-kind celebrity-ish talk show in the confines of his garage, next to his washer and dryer. Not surprisingly, the show took off.

While the interview is not the only one Craig granted on his brother's death and is certainly not the only show Brian has filmed with a celebrity, the chemistry between the host and guest is definitely present throughout the time they shared, sparking a unique revelation of impromptu bittersweet memories.

Check out Craig's interview and for more information on Brian Kelsey's "Ten Minutes With Brian Kelsey," click onto his website: https://www.tenminuteswith.com/.

VIDEO (YouTube): https://youtu.be/9l5Og7QfZC4

MEDIA CONTACT:
Brian Kelsey
203.650.0206
brian@TenMinutesWith.com

On December 9 of 2020, Craig Melvin, a news anchor on the Today Show, lost his forty-three-year-old brother, Lawrence Meadows to colon cancer. Weeks later, Craig sat down with "Ten Minutes With Brian Kelsey" talk show host, Brian Kelsey, for an off-the-wall interview, oddly enough, in Brian's driveway.

Related link: https://www.tenminuteswith.com/

5,700 Square Foot Office Space Sublease at 6 Landmark Square in Stamford, CT Represented by Choyce Peterson

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a 5,700 square foot (SF) office suite available for sublease at 6 Landmark Square in Stamford, CT. Choyce Peterson Vice President Adam Cognetta, Principal John Hannigan and Associate Casey McKnight comprise the brokerage team.

Landmark Square is a seven-building office and retail complex in the heart of downtown Stamford, conveniently located just off Exit 7 of I-95, and nearby the Stamford Metro North Train Station. The Landmark Square complex is attached to the Stamford Town Center mall with a movie theater, dry cleaner and barbershop. Landmark Square has covered parking, a private tenant shuttle to the Stamford Train Station, a 20,000 SF tenants-only fitness facility, and café with both indoor and outdoor seating. It also offers on-site ownership, and full-time security and concierge services.

The 5,700 SF office space is on the third floor and comprises the entire floor of the building at 6 Landmark Square. Thus, a future tenant leasing this space will have dedicated signage in the 3rd floor lobby and private bathrooms. The suite has 8-10 offices, room for 15-25 workstations, and 1-2 conference rooms. In addition, there is a private kitchen and furniture is available upon request. The sublease term is through October 2025, and the landlord, Reckson a Division of SL Green, is open to a direct deal as well.

Cognetta commented, "We are delighted to represent a quality office space within a renown Fairfield County office and retail complex. Landmark Square is perfectly situated within walking distance of countless restaurants and retail stores. With convenient access to both I-95 and the Stamford Train Station, this location appeals to both car commuters, and those who prefer to commute via Metro North. This space would make an excellent new office for any company looking to relocate to a class A building in downtown Stamford."

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more: https://www.choycepeterson.com/property/6-landmark-square

Media Contact:
Adam Cognetta
Vice President
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8173
acognetta@choycepeterson.com
www.choycepeterson.com

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a 5,700 square foot (SF) office suite available for sublease at 6 Landmark Square in Stamford, CT.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Blair & Potts Relocates within Stamford Plaza in Stamford, CT – Choyce Peterson Negotiates Transaction

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced the successful completion of lease negotiations for Blair & Potts (www.blairandpotts.com) for its 6,169 square-foot office space at Two Stamford Plaza in Stamford, CT. Choyce Peterson Vice President Adam Cognetta and Principal John Hannigan represented Blair & Potts in the transaction.

Rob Buckingham, Jr. and Bob DeVellis, partners at Blair & Potts, decided to engage Cognetta and Hannigan's services after an introductory phone call and follow-up meeting with them, well ahead of the firm's lease expiration. The Choyce Peterson team led DeVellis and Buckingham on a wide search of available space in Stamford. After touring multiple buildings and Choyce Peterson negotiating proposals for several buildings, it became clear that the ideal solution was to remain in the Stamford Plaza complex but consider relocating from Building Four to Building Two into a newly built office suite. The employees at Blair & Potts had come to appreciate the numerous amenities that

Stamford Plaza offers, including outdoor space, along with a new cafeteria, dry cleaners, renovated fitness center, shuttle to the Stamford train station and covered parking. Most importantly, however, is Stamford Plaza's perfect location in the heart of Stamford's central business district, directly off Exit 8 of I-95, with convenient access for both Blair & Potts' clients and employees.

Cognetta and Hannigan negotiated with Margaret Carlson, Portfolio Manager for RFR Realty, LLC ("RFR"), the landlord at Stamford Plaza, to arrive at a solution which combined two pre-built suites with several modifications to accommodate Blair & Potts' specifications. Blair & Potts is relocating from Four Stamford Plaza to Two Stamford Plaza.

"We really enjoyed partnering with Rob and Bob on this project," Cognetta said. "We encouraged them to tour all viable options in Stamford, as well as explore available suites in their current complex so they could make a fully informed decision on the best option. We ultimately negotiated a solution that ticked all the boxes, allowing them to retain the quality location their employees and clients appreciated, while providing compelling economic lease terms in a brand-new space."

"We are very happy with the work that Adam and John did to make this long-term decision a clear one - especially in this environment," commented Blair & Potts. "They helped us survey the entire market so we could compare and ultimately focus on the most important factors in a new suite. Their professional and comprehensive process was instrumental in providing us with the best result for our needs."

About Blair & Potts

Blair & Potts was founded on January 4, 1993 by Nancy E. Blair and Arthur G. Potts, Jr., to provide legal services to individuals in the areas of estate planning, trust and estate administration, and taxation of individuals, trusts and estates. In addition to seven attorneys, Blair & Potts has a full team of fiduciary accountants, paralegals and administrative assistants, which enables us to staff each matter in the most efficient and cost-effective way for our clients. We regularly work with our clients' business, financial and insurance advisors to provide comprehensive advice and counseling.

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Contact:
Adam Cognetta
Vice President
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8173
acognetta@choycepeterson.com
www.choycepeterson.com

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced the successful completion of lease negotiations for Blair & Potts for its 6,169 square-foot office space at Two Stamford Plaza in Stamford, CT.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Promontory MortgagePath Wins Spot on HousingWire’s 2021 Tech100 List of Most Innovative Mortgage Tech Companies

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC today announced it was named a 2021 HW Tech100 Mortgage winner. The industry trade publication HousingWire chooses this list of top technology companies in the mortgage space.

HousingWire chose Promontory MortgagePath, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, for its work in, "simplifying and automating problems in the fulfillment space that, to-date, have been complicated and manual...Through its technology and mortgage fulfillment solutions, [Promontory MortgagePath] provides the scale and cost efficiencies that previously only existed at larger banks. With [Promontory MortgagePath], community lenders can continue to offer personalized service to their communities at a cost that allows them to compete with big brands."

"At Promontory MortgagePath, our goal is to level the playing field for community and regional lenders by equipping them with the tools to profitably launch, re-launch, and scale their mortgage operations," said Promontory MortgagePath CEO and Founder Gene Ludwig. "Our mortgage origination technology and fulfillment services allow community and regional lenders to leverage the power of a network, and we're increasing access to homeownership for everyone in the communities these lenders serve. We're thankful to the team at HousingWire for this 2021 HW Tech100 recognition."

According to HousingWire, "The Tech100 program provides housing professionals with a list of the most innovative and impactful companies that can be leveraged to identify partners and solutions to the problems that mortgage lenders and real estate professionals face everyday... For the second year in a row, the Tech100 program was divided into the HW Tech100 Mortgage and the HW Tech100 Real Estate to highlight the innovation and achievements of organizations within both sectors."

"After the uncertainty and unpredictability of last year, we expected a greater adoption of technology. However, these 100 real estate and mortgage companies took digital disruption to a whole new level and propelled a complete digital revolution, leaving a digital legacy that will impact borrowers, clients and companies for years to come," said Brena Nath, HousingWire's HW+ Managing Editor. "Knowing what these companies were able to navigate and overcome, we're excited to announce this year's list of the most innovative technology companies serving the mortgage and real estate industries."

To view the complete list of the 2021 HW Tech100 Mortgage winners, visit https://www.housingwire.com/articles/introducing-the-2021-hw-tech100-mortgage-winners/.

About HousingWire

HousingWire is the most influential source of news and information for the U.S. mortgage and housing markets. Built on a foundation of independent and original journalism, HousingWire reaches over 60,000 newsletter subscribers daily and over 1.0 million unique visitors each month. Our audience of mortgage, real estate and fintech professionals rely on us to Move Markets Forward. Visit https://www.housingwire.com or https://www.housingwire.com/advertise/ to learn more.

About HW Media

HW Media aspires for audiences to "Come for the content, and stay for the community." By aligning vertical expertise and innovative B2B marketing solutions, HW Media answers the ever-evolving needs of modern professionals, brands and marketers. With a premium suite of advertising solutions, HW Media builds upon this principle, improving reader experience and delivering brand results. Based in Dallas with team members across the country, HW Media was founded in 2016 through the acquisition of HousingWire and is owned by Riomar Capital, an entrepreneurial investment firm.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly-changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for their ability to help community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC today announced it was named a 2021 HW Tech100 Mortgage winner. The industry trade publication HousingWire chooses this list of top technology companies in the mortgage space.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

Chelsea Groton Bank Introduces Local Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking Team and New Ways to Connect

GROTON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Chelsea Groton Bank is pleased to introduce Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking, a new digital personal experience that gives members the flexibility to bank when, where and how it's most convenient. There are currently two ways to connect with a Video Banker - either at one of the Bank's walk-up or drive-up Video Banking ATMs, or via a secure video call made through an app on a member's phone or computer.

"We are focused on providing innovative tools and services to our members, ensuring that they have convenient access to our team and their finances," said Jenn Pensa, EVP, Chief Innovation Officer at Chelsea Groton Bank. "We believe this technology will be invaluable to members of our community, both during pandemic times and after, providing them opportunities to interact with our team when, where, and how they want to. Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking is an example of a personalized customer-facing technology that will enable us to continue to enhance relationships and provide our trusted service to individuals and businesses even after-hours or off-site."

The Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking Team who will assist members and non-members at the Bank's walk-up and drive-up Video Banking ATMs, and when contacting a banker through the online and mobile app, includes Mariel Duran-Lora of Waterford, Alex Johnson of New London, Kyle Main of Canterbury, Dee Houde of Norwich, and Zina Secchiaroli of New London, as well as business bankers, commercial lenders, mortgage loan officers, and members of the wealth management team.

VIDEO BANKING ATMS

Video Banking ATMs have replaced the more traditional ATMs at the Bank's Mystic and Niantic walk-ups, and New London, Norwichtown and Norwich-Westside drive-ups, with additional locations coming this year. They offer the ability to speak directly with a local bank representative, in addition to typical ATM functions. Instead of inserting a card into the machine to make a simple withdrawal or deposit, users can touch the screen in order to be connected live to a video banker, who will assist with banking transactions, loan payments, cashing a check down to the penny, and many other tasks that would normally be completed inside a branch, during a live conversation on screen.

For those asking, "Why not just use an ATM?" here are a few reasons these tools will benefit the Bank's members:

1. No Debit Card or PIN Needed - Since a member is connecting face-to-face with a banker, members can verify their identity by providing a license or answering security questions if they've forgotten their debit card or PIN.

2. Banking Questions Answered - While you can't complete tasks that require signatures through the Video Banking ATM, members can ask financial questions, update account information, and so much more.

3. Enhanced Withdrawal and Deposit Features - Video Banking ATMs allow members to cash a check to the penny, receive cash in smaller denominations, have higher withdrawal limits, and transactions post immediately so a balance is available in real-time.

4. Extended Hours - Chelsea Groton's Video Banking team is available to assist members at walk-up and drive-up Video Banking ATMs Monday - Saturday, before and after traditional banking hours.

VIDEO BANKING APP

In addition to Video Banking ATMs, Chelsea Groton has also partnered with POPio Mobile Video Cloud (POPi/o), the industry's first interactive mobile video banking solution, to offer members an app similar to FaceTime or TeleHealth. Because of the added capabilities and built-in security features, bankers and members are able to share and sign documents, review proposals together and more, all during the live video call from a member's phone, tablet, or computer.

"We've already had experiences where, due to travel restrictions, members were unable to meet at a branch to sign documentation. We were able to have a meeting through the Video Banking App that allowed all parties to connect, converse and sign documents. This wouldn't have been feasible without the Video Banking App," explained Pensa.

Members can schedule a video call with any of the Chelsea|LIVE Video Bankers, or with a specific banker or department.

For more information about the new video banking channels, and to get to know the Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking team, visit http://www.chelseagroton.com/ChelseaLIVE.

About Chelsea Groton Bank

Based in Groton, Conn., Chelsea Groton Bank is a full-service mutually owned bank with over $1.4 billion in assets. Chelsea Groton Bank's products and services include consumer banking, business banking, mortgage and business lending, cash management, financial planning and financial education programming. With 14 branch locations throughout New London County and a Loan Production Office in Hartford County, Chelsea Groton Bank also provides online and mobile banking, 24-hour telephone banking, and nationwide ATM banking for individuals, families and businesses.

To learn more, please visit http://www.chelseagroton.com/.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender. NMLS Institution ID 402928.

Chelsea Groton Bank is pleased to introduce Chelsea|LIVE Video Banking, a new digital personal experience that gives members the flexibility to bank when, where and how it's most convenient.

Related link: https://www.chelseagroton.com/

13,500 Square Foot Office Space Sublease at 1 Thorndal Circle, Darien, CT Represented by Choyce Peterson

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a 13,500 square foot office suite available for sublease at 1 Thorndal Circle in Darien, CT. Choyce Peterson Principal John Hannigan, Vice President Adam Cognetta, and Vice President Charlene O'Connell comprise the brokerage team.

This well-situated office space is located in a multi-building office park that is conveniently located 0.2 miles off Exit 11 of I-95, 0.7 miles to the Darien Train Station, and just a half mile from downtown Darien. Recent renovations complement the executive layout of this suite with 25 offices, of which 12 are in corners, as well as workstation areas.

In addition, there is a large conference room, a spacious kitchen, built-in rolling files, private bathrooms and, if requested, furniture. The building offers easy stair access to this 2nd floor suite, covered parking, and on-site building management. The sublease term is through June 2021, and the landlord, The Nielsen Company, is open to a direct deal as well.

Hannigan commented, "We are pleased to represent such a valuable office space within an iconic office park. The Thorndal Circle Office Park is perfectly situated to appeal to both suburban employees who commute via car, and those living closer to New York City who would commute via Metro North. This location, coupled with a well-appointed suite offering numerous socially-distanced workspaces, would make an ideal new office location for any company."

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more: https://www.choycepeterson.com/property/1-thorndal-circle

Contact:
John Hannigan
Principal
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8175
jhannigan@choycepeterson.com
www.choycepeterson.com

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a 13,500 square foot office suite available for sublease at 1 Thorndal Circle in Darien, CT. Choyce Peterson Principal John Hannigan, Vice President Adam Cognetta, and Vice President Charlene O'Connell comprise the brokerage team.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Promontory MortgagePath Appoints Savita Ilango as Chief Financial Officer

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced today it has hired Savita Ilango as chief financial officer. A financial industry veteran, Ilango brings unique perspectives for helping Promontory MortgagePath continue both on its growth trajectory and toward achieving its mission of changing the way lenders approach their mortgage business.

"We're delighted to welcome Savita to the Promontory MortgagePath leadership team," said Debora Aydelotte, chief operating officer at Promontory MortgagePath. "Savita's extensive experience as a results-oriented financial leader will have an immediate impact as we continue to grow and her proven ability to create value will be felt throughout the firm."

With extensive experience in finance, Ilango has worked with publicly held and private companies of varying sizes, leading cross-functional teams to achieve financial targets and operational excellence. She comes to Promontory MortgagePath from Kabbage, a FinTech firm providing small businesses with automated cash flow solutions, where she served as head of global financial planning and analysis. Prior to Kabbage, Ilango worked in roles with increasing responsibility in controllership, financial planning, and consumer banking at Synchrony Financial and GE Capital.

"I am thrilled to join the dynamic and driven team at Promontory MortgagePath and look forward to driving growth for both our customers and our company. I love the mission of helping community-oriented financial institutions thrive," said Ilango.

To learn more about open positions at Promontory MortgagePath, visit mortgagepath.com/careers. Contact careers@mortgagepath.com to submit a resume or other inquiries.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly-changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for their ability to help community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced today it has hired Savita Ilango as chief financial officer. A financial industry veteran, Ilango brings unique perspectives for helping Promontory MortgagePath continue both on its growth trajectory and toward achieving its mission of changing the way lenders approach their mortgage business.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

Incredible 12,375-14,625 Square Foot Available Office Space Sublease at 230 East Avenue in Norwalk, CT

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a unique 12,375-14,625 square foot office suite available for sublease at 230 East Avenue in Norwalk, CT, located directly at the East Norwalk Metro North train station and 0.4 miles from Exit 16 off I-95. Choyce Peterson Principal John Hannigan, Vice President Charlene O'Connell, and Associate Casey McKnight comprise the brokerage team.

This well-appointed commercial office space has a brand-new buildout with a modern layout consisting of numerous perimeter offices, two conference rooms, a sizable area for workstations and a spacious kitchen. Furniture is available if desired. In addition, the suite has a dedicated entrance off the parking lot and private bathrooms. A mezzanine level provides an additional 2,250 square feet of space to use for workstations, storage, or a lounge area. The sublease term is through January 2030, however the landlord, Spinnaker Real Estate Partners, is open to a direct deal as well.

What distinguishes this building from every other Fairfield County office building is the spectacular and unparalleled building amenities which include indoor AND outdoor rooftop meeting and entertainment spaces, ground floor lounge areas, conference rooms, media room, fitness center, exterior courtyard and lower-level covered parking.

Hannigan commented, "We are thrilled to represent a high-quality sublease in a building with the perfect location at the foot of the East Norwalk train station, as well as incredible building amenities. It presents the ideal solution for companies in the region or New York City looking to establish an office in an urban suburbia location."

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more: https://www.choycepeterson.com/property/230-east-ave

Media Contact:
John Hannigan
Principal
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
(203) 961-8175
jhannigan@choycepeterson.com

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, announced they are exclusively representing a unique 12,375-14,625 square foot office suite available for sublease at 230 East Avenue in Norwalk, CT, located directly at the East Norwalk Metro North train station.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Choyce Peterson Negotiates New 6,500 SF Westport, CT Office for Keller Williams Prestige Properties

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, recently announced the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on behalf of Keller Williams Prestige Properties ('KWPP') (www.kellerwilliamsprestigeprop.com) for a new 6,500 SF office at 276 Post Road West in Westport, CT. Choyce Peterson Vice Presidents Adam Cognetta and Charlene O'Connell represented KWPP in this transaction.

When Stephen Scott, CEO of KWPP, was ready to expand his Stamford-based residential real estate business into the Westport area, he called Cognetta, with whom he and his brokerage team had an existing professional relationship. Scott explained that he was seeking a building with excellent visibility that could offer a flexible working space. In addition, KWPP required abundant parking to accommodate a transient agent team and increased employee count during on-site training days.

After touring buildings throughout the Westport area, and soliciting proposals from numerous landlords, Scott and his team decided on 276 Post Road West. This building had existing conditions which were modified to allow the right mix of training, office, break-out and open space. In addition to negotiating a landlord-funded buildout, Cognetta and O'Connell successfully made a case for the Landlord to expedite renovations of the common bathrooms, building entry and facade which together with an enhanced landscaping program, will give the building a much more contemporary look.

Cognetta commented, "It's been a pleasure representing Steve, Rick and the KWPP team. This project was geared towards optimizing the way their agents work - today and in the future. By working collaboratively and creatively with KWPP we achieved an excellent outcome. Keller Williams is a terrific, long-term fit for the building and the Westport market. They will be at home in this bespoke, functional and modern office."

Scott concluded, "We were thrilled to work with Adam and Charlene on this exciting project. They turned the market upside down and exceeded expectations in every respect to help us achieve our vision. Parking and modernization of the building were critical along the path to success. We are excited to expand our business in Fairfield County and to meet with clients in a terrific new space."

The landlord, GA Family 276 Westport LLC, was represented by Senior Director Adam Klimek and Director William Montague of Cushman & Wakefield.

About Keller Williams Prestige Properties (KWPP)

KWPP is a multifaceted full-service residential real estate brokerage. KWPP's market center in Stamford, comprised of 340 agents, is the #1 brokerage in Stamford and Norwalk and the #2 real estate office in the state of Connecticut both in units and volume sold.

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions. Learn more: https://www.choycepeterson.com/.

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full-service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm, recently announced the successful conclusion of lease negotiations on behalf of Keller Williams Prestige Properties ('KWPP') for a new 6,500 SF office at 276 Post Road West in Westport, CT.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Dynamic Facebook Posting Tool for Social Media Managers and Individuals

REDDING, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Burroughs Media has developed a dynamic new tool for social media managers and individuals posting on Facebook, the Ultimate Poster for Facebook, a Chrome browser extension. It posts to up to 20 groups in one click! This extension has grown quickly with currently over 10,000 users.

It is used to inform your Facebook Community about anything. Some of our customers are restaurants that want to promote a special event, creative people who want their friends to know about their latest project, musicians that want to quickly get the word out about where they are playing and sports enthusiasts who want to communicate to their Facebook sports groups. The applications for this extension are almost limitless.

Some of its special functions are the capability to create different categories of Facebook group URLs to post to which you can go back and edit or delete. You can also include links to a video or image which will show up as such in your posts. While it's automatically posting in the background a user can do other work on their computer or elsewhere, saving them valuable time.

"Keeping up with your Facebook involvement takes a lot of time. Being your own social media manager is so important to day to get the word out about whatever you do or want to promote. This is a fun and powerful tool even for those who just want to share personal messages, photos or videos," said Trace Burroughs, Owner of Burroughs Media.

If you want to try it out you can do so for two weeks without a credit card.

This tool is easy to use and has a simple four-page guide that explains everything about it, which you can download here for free (PDF): https://burroughsmedia.com/Poster_Guide.pdf

You can get the free trial with no credit card here https://burroughsmedia.com/poster_for_facebook/

Explainer video on YouTube is here: https://youtu.be/WxP6e4idC9E

MEDIA CONTACT
If you would like more information about the Poster for Facebook call Trace Burroughs at 203-664-1086 EST or email at burroughsmedia@gmail.com

Burroughs Media has developed a dynamic new tool for social media managers and individuals posting on Facebook, the Ultimate Poster for Facebook, a Chrome browser extension. It posts to up to 20 groups in one click! This extension has grown quickly with currently over 10,000 users.

Related link: https://burroughsmedia.com/

Fig Linens and Home Updates Website to Better Serve Houseware and Home Design Shoppers

WESTPORT, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Fig Linens and Home, a bedding and linens shop in Westport, Connecticut, is pleased to announce that they have recently updated their website. This was to ensure that the website is up-to-date, can easily be navigated, and is mobile responsive. The company offers bedding, linens, and home furnishings to purchase online throughout the United States.

The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, eager to meet your unique design needs. The experts at Fig Linens and Home assist customers select the finest bedding, luxury bath items and home décor.

Fig Linens and Home offers an extensive selection of luxury linens and textiles for your bedroom, bathroom & table. Along with bedding and towels, you will find many other wonderful items for your home. They specialize in custom bedding, custom bath and decorative pillows, while also offering upholstered pieces, case goods furniture, mirrors and apothecary delights.

Brands carried include Pratesi, Sferra, Matouk, John Robshaw, Yves Delorme, Nancy Koltes, Kevin O'Brien, Home Treasures, Abyss, Habidecor, Kim Seybert, Bodrum, Beatriz Ball, Scandia Down, Downright Pillows and Comforters, Ryan Studio and many more.

Those who are interested in bedding and linens in Fairfield County, CT and surrounding areas may want to check out the Fig Linens and Home website at https://www.figlinensandhome.com/

About Fig Linens and Home:

Fig Linens is an Interior Design and Fine Linens Boutique located in Westport, CT. Fig Linens and Home specializes in luxury bed, bath and table Linens. With additional accessories for home & garden, lamps, decorative pillows and mirrors, along with lovely gifts, loungewear & apothecary, we can turn your house into a home.

More information: https://www.figlinensandhome.com/

Fig Linens and Home, a bedding and linens shop in Westport, Connecticut, is pleased to announce that they have recently updated their website. This was to ensure that the website is up-to-date, can easily be navigated, and is mobile responsive. The company offers bedding, linens, and home furnishings to purchase online throughout the United States.

Related link: https://www.figlinensandhome.com/

Choyce Peterson Publishes Year-End 2020 Lower Fairfield County Office Space Availability Poster

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Choyce Peterson, Inc. (www.choycepeterson.com), a full service commercial real estate brokerage firm with a specialization in tenant representation, announced the release of its 22nd semi-annual Lower Fairfield County Office Space Availability Poster. While 2020 started with a high availability rate, it was widely expected that there would be a significant amount of available office space added to the market. This report shows otherwise as there was only a 2.0 percentage point increase in total availability, from 27.8% at Year-End 2019 to 29.8% at Year-End 2020.

The full-size poster depicts silhouettes of 96 buildings with a total inventory of 18.2 million square feet and tracks changes in office space availability from Year-End 2019 to Year-End 2020 in larger, primarily multi-tenanted Class A office buildings in Stamford, Norwalk, Greenwich, and Westport. The unique study illustrates the absorption and give back of direct and sublease space, as well as overall availability statistics.

The following refers to the poster's "availability rate" at Year End 2019 vs. Year End 2020 in each market surveyed:

* STAMFORD increased from 30.2 to 34.1%. Of the 31 buildings surveyed, 16 experienced a decrease in available square footage, 12 had an increase and 3 were unchanged. Three buildings added a staggering 570,000 square feet of available space: 1 Harbor Point Square (sublease space), 201 Tresser Blvd (Purdue Pharma building) and 301 Tresser Blvd (direct space).

* NORWALK increased from 32.5% to 34.6%. Of the 20 buildings surveyed, 6 experienced a decrease in available square footage, 8 had an increase and 6 were unchanged. 200 Connecticut Avenue and 535 Connecticut Avenue added the most space (94,222 square feet).

* GREENWICH decreased from 18.1% to 16.1%. Of the 25 buildings surveyed, 11 experienced a decrease in available square footage, 6 had an increase and 8 were unchanged. 1 American Lane and 100 West Putnam Avenue combined, decreased their availability by 46,003 square feet.

* WESTPORT, the strongest of the four markets, decreased from 15.9% to 12.6%. Of the 20 buildings surveyed, 6 experienced a decrease in available square footage, 4 had an increase and 10 were unchanged. 55 Post Road West, 276 Post Road West and 285 Riverside Avenue combined, decreased their availability by 41,516 square feet.

"I'm sure this report will perplex many people," stated John P. Hannigan, a principal at Choyce Peterson. Hannigan continued, "I've had numerous conversations with area executives and read many reports about the demise of office space. To date, our regional market has weathered the storm of COVID-19. In fact, two of the four markets surveyed, Greenwich and Westport, have seen a decrease in availability rates. Greenwich benefited from NYC based companies leasing space, while Westport's absorption was mainly comprised of companies relocating within Fairfield County."

He added, "With an increase in available space in Stamford and Norwalk, landlords in these markets are now more flexible with financial and business terms when negotiating leases. In fact, in the second half of 2020 we obtained significantly favorable results for our clients including rental rates below the ask and a substantial amount of free rent, with landlords funding and providing a new office buildout based on a tenant's specifications."

Adam Cognetta, vice president at Choyce Peterson noted, "While there has been and remains a heavy focus on strong residential market dynamics, commercial office market activity was frozen for most of 2020 and since late fall has been thawing out. We expect the uptick in activity to continue through 2021, partially offset by the longer-term implications of work-from-home flexibility and post-pandemic workplace planning. As leases expire, executives will be focused on evaluating appropriate sizing and lease terms among other key considerations."

To view the poster visit: https://www.choycepeterson.com/officeposter2020ye

To order a copy of Choyce Peterson's comparative Silhouette Poster, please call 203-356-9600 or email info@choycepeterson.com.

About Choyce Peterson

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage and consulting firm with offices in Norwalk, CT and Rye Brook, NY, was founded in 1997 and has negotiated millions of square feet of transactions in 42 states and Canada. The Choyce Peterson process delivers comprehensive and creative real estate solutions to ensure clients derive maximum value from their real estate decisions.

Learn more at: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

MEDIA CONTACTS
John P. Hannigan
Principal
203-961-8175
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
jhannigan@choycepeterson.com

Adam M. Cognetta
Vice President
203-961-8173
Choyce Peterson, Inc.
acognetta@choycepeterson.com

Choyce Peterson, Inc., a full service commercial real estate brokerage firm with a specialization in tenant representation, announced the release of its 22nd semi-annual Lower Fairfield County Office Space Availability Poster.

Related link: https://www.choycepeterson.com/

Chelsea Groton Bank and Foundation Together Gave Record $1 Million this Year

GROTON, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- This year, Chelsea Groton Bank and its Foundation provided more than $1 Million to non-profit organizations in our communities. The Foundation recently approved $405,820 in grants to 68 non-profit organizations from Connecticut and Rhode Island, which put the full year's giving total above the $1 Million mark for the first time ever.

Earlier this year, the Foundation swiftly responded to support emergency relief efforts as well as needs across all giving categories in the wake of the pandemic, making the unprecedented decision to double the usual amount of total funds granted in a calendar year.

Half of the Foundation's approved funding this fall went to organizations providing Health & Human Services, including immediate critical needs such as healthcare, food, clothing and shelter. A grant donation of $25,000 was provided to Lawrence & Memorial Hospital for urgent needs due to the pandemic, and grants of $15,000 each were given to Salvation Army New London for the Boys and Girls Club of New London and COVID-19 Food Pantry, Salvation Army Norwich for their emergency assistance program and St. Vincent de Paul Place for their food pantry.

The Foundation also granted $30,000 to the Garde Arts Center in New London, enabling them to receive an additional $15,000 through the CT Dept. of Economic and Community Development. In addition, the Bank gave over $80,000 in sponsorships and grants for local teachers to use in their own virtual or in-person classrooms for educational activities with students.

"Our organization's roots are in this community. We knew there was no time more important to figure out a way to help people than in this time of great need. We're fortunate to have a Foundation and a commitment to community giving that can have such a positive impact on organizations in desperate need of support," shared Michael Rauh, President and CEO of Chelsea Groton Bank, and President of the Chelsea Groton Foundation. "We are committed to doing whatever it takes to support the non-profits in our area who make the community the wonderful place it is."

"When faced with these unique times, the Chelsea Groton Foundation Board responded by temporarily adjusting guidelines in order to provide financial support to more organizations in need. We are proud to give to organizations that support basic human needs - hunger, homelessness and healthcare - as well as those that provide education, economic growth, arts and cultural experiences, and more, especially in this great time of need."

For a fourth consecutive year, the Foundation has also made a significant grant commitment - $50,000 in 2020 - to Norwich Community Development Corporation (NCDC) for Global City Norwich, in order to train entrepreneurs and create a thriving downtown environment that will ensure increased traffic in area businesses.

The Foundation typically reviews applications and awards grants two times per year. Organizations who support critical needs are invited to apply for additional funding this year if needed, through the application on the Bank's website, http://www.chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.

Each year, Chelsea Groton Bank and the Chelsea Groton Foundation support more than 300 local organizations through monetary gifts, grants, sponsorships, scholarships and employee volunteerism. More information, including a list of all fall grant recipients, is available at chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.

About the Chelsea Groton Foundation

The Chelsea Groton Foundation was formed in June 1998 as a Section 501(c) (3) organization. Initially endowed with a $2 million donation from Chelsea Groton Bank, the Foundation has, to date, awarded over $4.4 million in grants to hundreds of scientific, educational and charitable organizations located within the Bank's market area. To learn more, visit: chelseagroton.com/CGFoundation.

About Chelsea Groton Bank

Based in Groton, Connecticut, Chelsea Groton Bank is a full-service mutually owned bank with over $1.4 billion in assets. Chelsea Groton Bank's products and services include consumer banking, business banking, mortgage and business lending, cash management, financial planning and financial education programming. With 14 branch locations throughout New London County and a Loan Production Office in Hartford County, Chelsea Groton Bank also provides online and mobile banking, 24-hour telephone banking, and nationwide ATM banking for individuals, families and businesses.

To learn more, please visit https://www.chelseagroton.com/.

Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

This year, Chelsea Groton Bank and its Foundation provided more than $1 Million to non-profit organizations in our communities. The Foundation recently approved $405,820 in grants to 68 non-profit organizations from Connecticut and Rhode Island, which put the full year's giving total above the $1 Million mark for the first time ever.

Related link: https://www.chelseagroton.com/

Nutritional and Behavioral Care Launches Updated Website

RIDGEFIELD, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Nutritional and Behavioral Care, a licensed nutritionist and dietitian, in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is pleased to announce that they have recently updated their website. This was to ensure that the website is up to date, can easily be navigated, and is mobile responsive.

Nutritional & Behavioral Care offers health management counseling services, including nutritional counseling, weight management programs, behavioral counseling weight management programs, behavioral counseling, safe nutritional products tailored to your specific health needs, and psychotherapy

Rosalie Schiappacasse-Janette has more than 35 years' experience in nutritional counseling. She holds master's degrees in nutrition and in Social Work from the University of California and is a practicing psychotherapist.

In 1982, she started her private practice in Ridgefield CT. Since then, she has counseled over 10,000 clients and achieved a high level of experience and success in helping her clients to use their own mental capacity to live a healthier, happier life.

As a health management professional, nutritional consultant, and psychotherapist, she offers nutritional counseling together with behavior modification counseling to create realistic plans that work for persons of all ages. Rosalie is also a licensed Social Worker CSW helping people with eating disorders and daily stress issues.

Those who are interested in nutrition, weight management or behavioral management in Ridgefield, CT and surrounding areas may want to check out the Nutritional and Behavioral Care website at https://www.nutritionalandbehavioralcare.com/

Nutritional & Behavioral Care offers health management counseling services throughout Fairfield County, CT and Westchester County, NY.

Media Contact:
Rosalie Schiappacasse-Janette
Nutritional and Behavioral Care
15158 Danbury Rd. Suite #4 Ridgefield CT 06877 US
203-431-3438

Nutritional and Behavioral Care, a licensed nutritionist and dietitian, in Ridgefield, Connecticut, is pleased to announce that they have recently updated their website. This was to ensure that the website is up to date, can easily be navigated, and is mobile responsive.

Promontory MortgagePath Recruits Elisha Werner as Chief Compliance Officer

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced today it has recruited Elisha Werner as chief compliance officer, mortgage operations. In this role, Werner will lead compliance efforts for Promontory MortgagePath's residential mortgage operations and oversee the regulatory and compliance implementation process including contributing to and testing the company's cutting-edge compliance controls and digital mortgage origination technology.

In addition, Werner will support the development, implementation and ongoing performance of Promontory MortgagePath's compliance management system, which serves as the foundation for its mortgage fulfillment services.

"Compliance is the foundation on which our solution is built, and Elisha's demonstrated experience in mortgage compliance will directly support us in equipping lenders with best-in-class technology at the highest level of compliance adherence," said Debora Aydelotte, chief operating officer at Promontory MortgagePath. "Her role as chief compliance officer enhances our digital mortgage and fulfillment services platform, further reducing lenders' risk, and strengthening Promontory MortgagePath's position as a trusted partner in managing today's regulatory burden."

With more than 20 years' experience in mortgage-industry compliance, Werner has served as general counsel of a title company, chief compliance officer of a mortgage banker and most recently as chief compliance counsel for Opus Capital Markets Consultants. In these roles, she managed all aspects of compliance oversight for operations, loan file due diligence and quality control.

"In today's environment, there are plenty of fintech providers building technology where compliance is secondary or an afterthought. As community lenders grow their mortgage operations, it is more important than ever they leverage digitally-driven mortgage services prioritizing compliance," said Werner. "Promontory MortgagePath's commitment to keeping abreast of the latest regulatory and investor changes offers community lenders assurance that as their loan volumes increase, their level of compliance risk will not respond in kind, and I am eager to utilize my expertise in this area to help maintain this commitment to our community lender partners."

To learn more about open positions at Promontory MortgagePath, visit mortgagepath.com/careers. Contact careers@mortgagepath.com to submit a resume or other inquiries.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly-changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for their ability to help community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced today it has recruited Elisha Werner as chief compliance officer, mortgage operations.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

Promontory MortgagePath Expands Team, Hires Regional Vice Presidents of Sales Diane Capers and Greg Bruns

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced it has hired Diane Capers and Greg Bruns as regional vice presidents in the company's sales division. Capers and Bruns will advance Promontory MortgagePath's comprehensive sales strategy by cultivating pivotal relationships to strengthen and grow Promontory MortgagePath's position as the industry's leading mortgage fulfillment platform.

"We're experiencing an outpouring of interest in our products as banks seek to adapt to and manage the current low-rate, digitally-driven mortgage market," said Promontory MortgagePath Chief Operating Officer Debora Aydelotte. "Diane and Greg have proven track records in business development operations and will undoubtedly magnify our sales division's impact, leveraging their industry experience to drive our mission forward."

As a previous sales director with more than 20 years of experience, Capers has earned a reputation for exceeding sales goals, managing lengthy client rosters and securing new business opportunities. Having driven significant margin and revenue growth in past roles, Capers also possesses an acute ability to deepen client relationships and capture new business by utilizing skilled negotiation techniques. She has experience working in business development at several mortgage banking firms, including Caliber Home Loans and Lenders One and has expanded her expertise into the digital mortgage technology sector, most recently with Optimal Blue.

Bruns brings more than a decade of experience in commercial banking and mortgage technology, possessing a keen knowledge of the mortgage and financial industries. As an intuitive sales professional, Bruns has managed a full cycle sales territory of more than 200 Fortune 1000 companies, fostering and maintaining client relationships on a large scale and establishing footholds in new markets.

To learn more about open options at Promontory MortgagePath, visit https://www.mortgagepath.com/careers/.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly-changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for their ability to help community lenders solve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, announced it has hired Diane Capers and Greg Bruns as regional vice presidents in the company's sales division.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

After, Inc. awarded ‘Disruptor of the Year 2020’ by the Internet Marketing Association for its QuickReg™ Smart Registration Platform

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- The Internet Marketing Association held its annual IMPACT Conference on October 2, 2020, where After, Inc., a global leader in warranty and after-market services for some of the largest manufacturers in the world, received the "Disruptor of the Year 2020" Award for its QuickReg™ Smart Registration Platform.

The IMA's conference, "IMPACT20 - The Year of Reinvention," brought together a record 117,000 professionals who explored best practices for identifying new markets, businesses, and innovations with thought leaders and senior executives from Apple, Google, Oculus VR, Amazon, Microsoft, Realtor.com, as well as the country's premier venture capitalists, educational institutions, and non-profits.

"We couldn't be more thrilled to be recognized by the IMA as Disruptor of the Year," said Nate Baldwin, CEO of After, Inc. "We designed QuickReg - a best-in-class, intelligent, cloud-based product registration tool - to help our manufacturing clients drive higher registration rates, customer satisfaction, loyalty and lifetime value throughout the product lifecycle. Just by scanning a QR code, taking a picture of - or texting - the model number, consumers can initiate an automated, personalized registration process that takes less than 60 seconds to complete."

Sean Conrad, CEO of the Internet Marketing Association, shared why it chose After, Inc. for its coveted 'Disruptor of the Year 2020' Award: "After, Inc.'s innovative QuickReg technology will be a game-changer for brands, and represents a unique and differentiated approach to curating the customer experience after the sale. It's the type of innovation that is synonymous with the IMPACT awards, and we congratulate the After, Inc. team on this well-deserved honor."

About Internet Marketing Association (IMA) & IMPACT Awards

The Internet Marketing Association (www.imanetwork.org) is one of the fastest growing Internet marketing groups in the world. Since its inception in 2001, IMA has accrued one of the largest databases of professional members in various fields including sales, marketing, business ownership, programming and creative development.

The Internet Marketing Association's annual IMPACT Awards (www.imanetwork.com/impact20/awards/) exemplify best-in-class creativity, expertise and results achieved by the top practitioners of Internet marketing across every business segment.

About After, Inc.

After, Inc. - https://www.afterinc.com/ - is a global leader in the Warranty Services industry, providing predictive analytics, data-driven marketing strategies, reporting and program administration to some of the world's top brands. After helps manufacturers transform their warranty businesses, driving customer satisfaction post-purchase, higher product reliability, deeper brand equity and additional revenue / profit opportunities. Headquartered in Norwalk, Conn. and with offices in New York City, After, Inc. is part of EPIC Portfolio Group, a unique and innovative retail property and casualty and employee benefits insurance brokerage and consulting firm with 1,300 employees across the United States.

*IMAGE link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/20-1030s2p-disruptor-logo-300dpi.jpg

The Internet Marketing Association held its annual IMPACT Conference on October 2, 2020, where After, Inc., a global leader in warranty and after-market services for some of the largest manufacturers in the world, received the "Disruptor of the Year 2020" Award for its QuickReg™ Smart Registration Platform.

Related link: http://afterinc.com/

Promontory MortgagePath Launches Initiative to Help Minority-Owned Financial Institutions Expand Mortgage Credit Access to Underserved Communities

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC today launched its initiative to support minority depository institutions' (MDIs) efforts to expand access to credit and homeownership in underserved communities. Through this initiative, Promontory MortgagePath, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, will partner with minority-owned banks and credit unions, including community development financial institutions (CDFIs), to offer exclusive pricing, resources and joint-marketing opportunities to participating institutions.

"The challenges facing community banks in low- to moderate-income areas will not be fixed immediately," said Promontory MortgagePath CEO and Founder Gene Ludwig. "But we must take action now to ensure that these vital institutions are supported because when these institutions thrive, the positive impact on their communities is profound."

The initiative aims to accelerate the ability of minority-owned banks and depositories to help their communities. There are more than 1,100 certified CDFIs in the U.S., managing approximately $222 billion in assets and, of the more than 5,400 federally insured financial institutions in the U.S., 149 are MDIs. These institutions create jobs, increase access to affordable housing and expand financial opportunities for underserved communities. An Urban Institute study details the vital role of minority-owned banks, which often fill mortgage lending gaps left by other banks and hold a deeper understanding of their communities' needs. The study also found that Black-owned banks are disproportionately affected by financial crises.

Without the right tools, minority-owned banks that lack access to cost-effective mortgage fulfillment technology or do not offer mortgage lending could stand to miss out on their share of the trillion-dollar mortgage origination market. Not only does this put these institutions at a disadvantage relative to their peers, but it also limits wealth-building opportunities for the communities these institutions serve. According to the Federal Reserve's Survey of Consumer Finances, homeowners possess a median net worth of $255,000, while the median net worth for renters is $6,300 (*see note 1).

Ludwig has long advocated for underserved communities, spotlighting the unique economic challenges they face. Throughout his career as former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency and founder of several notable financial services firms, Ludwig has demonstrated his passion for improving access to resources for all borrowers and lenders. In his recently published book, "The Vanishing American Dream," Ludwig leads a critical conversation on the plight of low- and moderate-income Americans, enlisting academics, politicians, CEOs and former presidential advisors to discuss the economic injustice that threatens so many Americans.

Earlier this month, the Community Development Bankers Association (CDBA) endorsed Promontory MortgagePath's mortgage fulfillment services and point-of-sale technology, recognizing the firm's alignment to CDBA's mission of promoting financial inclusion and opportunity among people and communities often left out of the economic mainstream. Promontory MortgagePath plans to work with the CDBA to identify strategic partners to participate in the initiative. MDIs and CDFIs that join the initiative will leverage Promontory MortgagePath's technology, U.S.-based mortgage fulfillment services and robust joint marketing program at an aggressive discount, fast-tracking their efforts to deepen and broaden their reach and expand access to homeownership in their communities.

"MDIs and CDFIs play a vital role in expanding access to credit and building wealth in the communities they serve," said Paul C. Katz, managing director and head of bank relations at Promontory MortgagePath. "Whether they are seeking to establish or grow their mortgage operations, Promontory MortgagePath is committed to partnering with these institutions to provide additional pathways to homeownership, and we highly encourage them to join the initiative."

MDIs or CDFIs interested in learning more about becoming strategic partners or joining this initiative should contact Katz at paul.katz@mortgagepath.com.

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for their ability to help community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, https://www.mortgagepath.com.

*NOTE 1: https://www.federalreserve.gov/publications/files/scf20.pdf

Promontory MortgagePath LLC today launched its initiative to support minority depository institutions' (MDIs) efforts to expand access to credit and homeownership in underserved communities. Through this initiative, Promontory MortgagePath, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage and tech-driven fulfillment solutions, will partner with minority-owned banks and credit unions.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/

Fabricare Launches an Extreme Marketing Campaign For New Service

NORWALK, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- If you're looking to disrupt an industry, you develop a radical marketing campaign that captures the attention of your target audience. LaundryCare by Fabricare is a new service that seeks to do just that.

Fashion has become more casual for many years. And with the recent pandemic causing people to work from home, this trend has accelerated and impacted dry cleaners' businesses across the country.

What's a dry cleaner to do?

Reinvent the service of caring for clothing.

Fabricare Cleaners, a well-established dry cleaners in Fairfield County for over 30 years, has looked at servicing customers' clothes from a fresh perspective. As wardrobes blend together between casual and work, Fabricare seeks to streamline clothing care with ONE bag and ONE low, monthly cost, complete with free pick up & delivery. No sorting, no deciphering labels, no worrying about your dry cleaning or delicates. Customers throw everything into one bag, and Fabricare sorts & cleans each item using their expert knowledge of all fabrics.

How do you launch this exciting new idea for clothing care -- a service that aims to save customers 100 hours each year that's usually spent on doing their laundry?

Introduce Extreme Ironing - a sport that's actually been around for over 20 years.

Extreme Ironing combines the mundane task of clothing care with extreme sports. Hard to believe, but pictures show individuals doing everything from scuba diving to mountain climbing WHILE doing laundry.

What better way to communicate Fabricare's new LaundryCare service? "Yes You Can Do Both" is the theme line for LaundryCare by Fabricare that utilizes crazy images from the sport of Extreme Ironing to clearly convey that trying to do laundry AND these activities is - "EXTREME!"

Kristen Martinez, Director of Marketing for Fabricare, found an amazing photographer when searching for images to use for this edgy campaign: Jack Nichols not only takes amazing photos, but is also an avid extreme iron participant himself! When approached to leverage some of his shots, he was excited to see how his passion fit in with LAUNDRY of all things: "Extreme ironing is about enjoying your favorite extreme activity or sport while still getting your laundry done," says Nichols. "Not everyone wants to haul an ironing board up a rock climb in the middle of the night though, so when Fabricare reached out, I thought it was a great fit!"

If you want to get back 100 hours a year, and leave your laundry to someone else while you enjoy the better things in life, check out LaundryCare by Fabricare at https://laundrycarebyfabricare.net/.

If you're looking to disrupt an industry, you develop a radical marketing campaign that captures the attention of your target audience. LaundryCare by Fabricare is a new service that seeks to do just that.

Related link: https://fabricarecleaners.net

Community Development Bankers Association Endorses Promontory MortgagePath’s Mortgage Fulfillment Services, POS Technology

DANBURY, Conn. /ScoopCloud/ -- Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage fulfillment services, announced today that the Community Development Bankers Association (CDBA) has officially endorsed its mortgage fulfillment services and proprietary point-of-sale technology Borrower Wallet(R). CDBA recognized Promontory MortgagePath's solutions for helping community development financial institutions (CDFIs) expand access to homeownership, particularly in the low- and moderate-income markets they serve.

Founded in 2015 by former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, Promontory MortgagePath began with a vision to empower community financial institutions with limited resources to participate profitably in mortgage lending. Through the delivery of best-in-class, technology-enabled fulfillment services and interrelated fintech products, Promontory MortgagePath is able to continually enhance the mortgage process so it is faster, simpler and more inclusive for all borrowers and lenders.

"Creating products and services that include and assist every type of consumer - most importantly, middle- and lower-income Americans - is deeply embedded in our values," Ludwig said. "Earning CDBA's endorsement underscores our commitment to CDFIs, and we are actively pursuing initiatives to empower CDFIs to provide consumers with better access to cost-effective mortgage lending services and credit, making the dream of homeownership a reality for all."

"CDBA advocates for the community development bank sector and the needs of communities often underserved by traditional financial service providers," said Jeannine Jacokes, Chief Executive Officer of CDBA. "We are pleased to partner with Promontory MortgagePath because of its alignment with our mission of promoting financial inclusion and opportunity among people and places often left out of the economic mainstream."

About CDBA

The Community Development Bankers Association is the voice and champion of the community development banking movement. CDBA and its 82 member banks work to make the banking industry a force for good by collectively promoting financial inclusion and creating economic opportunity in the nation's most economically distressed rural and urban communities. We convene community banking peers who strengthen a different kind of banking through collaboration, partnership, and learning. To learn more about CDBA, visit https://www.cdbanks.org/about-us

About Promontory MortgagePath LLC | NMLS ID 1532373

Promontory MortgagePath is a fast-growing team of passionate problem solvers on a mission to fundamentally change the way lenders approach their mortgage business. The company combines an intuitive, collaborative digital mortgage platform with modern, comprehensive fulfillment services, giving lenders the progressive technology and scalability required to profitably compete in today's rapidly changing residential mortgage market. Promontory MortgagePath's founder, former U.S. Comptroller of the Currency Gene Ludwig, is widely recognized as a visionary thinker on the critical issues confronting financial services, and his companies are renowned for helping community lenders resolve their most pressing challenges. To learn more, visit https://www.mortgagepath.com.

Promontory MortgagePath LLC, a leading provider of comprehensive digital mortgage fulfillment services, announced today that the Community Development Bankers Association (CDBA) has officially endorsed its mortgage fulfillment services and proprietary point-of-sale technology Borrower Wallet.

Related link: https://www.mortgagepath.com/