The Sandbox "Allows Kids to Dream, One Bucket at a Time."

Let's give an awesome Amity Chamber cheer for our new member, The Sandbox!

Located at 696 Amity Road, Bethany, The Sandbox provides a space where "kids can dream, one bucket at a time."

The Sandbox co-owners and founders, Dennis and his wife, Ryan Croteau, note,

“Our fondest memories are on the sandy beaches of family vacations. We created The Sandbox for children to enjoy an immersive, hands-on play experience that excites both their senses and imagination.”

The Sandbox was a family collaborative effort. Ryan and Dennis engaged their children for ideas on not just toys, but brand concept and design, experiences, and memory creation.

The Sandbox is also designed to allow adults to engage and enjoy with their kiddos. And, when not in the sand, a gourmet coffee station, hot cocoa, tea, refrigerated drinks, healthy snack offerings, and parent work stations are readily available.

For more information on pricing, party packages, FAQs, and more, please contact:

The Sandbox

Phone: 475-234-6105

info@playinthesandbox.com

playinthesandbox.com

Pictured (left to right): Amity Chamber's Barry Lee Cohen and The Sandbox co-owner, Dennis Croteau.

The Sandbox Ribbon Cutting and Open House Celebration!

Saturday, May 30th

11:00 am - 2:00 pm.

Join Dennis, Ryan, and the Amity Chamber for the official ribbon-cutting of The Sandbox. An Open House featuring Pizza, Ice Cream, Sandboxes (of course!), and fun for kids of all ages will be served!

Kyle Wasilewski, Bethany Economic Development Commissioner and an Amity Chamber Board Director, with Dennis Croteau.

Traveland: Family-Owned, Chamber Proud

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Family-owned and operated for over 40 years, Traveland has been helping travelers explore the world with ease and confidence. With offices in Orange and Bridgeport, the travel agency brings expert planning, personalized service, and a passion for travel to every journey.

As a proud member of the Signature Travel Network, Traveland offers exclusive access to top hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and tour companies. Exceptional value, VIP perks, and experiences tailored to your travel style are offered.

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, romantic getaway, business trip, or special celebration, Traveland's experienced travel advisors craft customized itineraries to match your interests. From cultural immersions and outdoor adventures to culinary experiences and luxury escapes, every detail is taken care of.

Pictured above: Traveland's Oded and Tal Battat

Our deep thanks to Marna Wilber, founder and Chief Macaroon Officer, of MarnaRoons, for her presentation at this morning's "Coffee, Conversation, and Macaroons!" And as always, thank you to Homewood Suites, 99 Marsh Hill Road, Orange, for hosting!

Marna's journey from corporate to a successful woman-owned small business was inspiring, as is her commitment to the sweet fulfillment of big ideals.

This fulfillment includes creating "baked in opportunity," by donating at least 20% of MarnaRoons profits from every purchase to support organizations that have proven their capacity to advance people’s live/work/play opportunities.

And...ahhhh...the macaroons! Just magnificent. All attendees put their diets aside and devoured MarnaRoons decadent, gluten-free, and delicious cookies. Take-home packets were also provided to share with family and friends. However, based on reports of coconut crumbs and biodegradable packaging left in the lobby, few made it out of the hotel.

marnaroons.com

The first Amity Chamber, "Breakfast & Briefs," will be held on Tuesday, April 21st, 8:30 - 9:30 am at Charter Senior Living of Woodbridge. Doors open at 8:15 am.

The program will be presented by Amity Chamber member Zabel Schellenberg Attorneys at Law, and led by two of the firm's partners, Owen Weaver and Courtney George.

This month's program will provide a legal update on Connecticut legislation that passed in 2025 and its associated business impacts, obligations, and opportunities, including:

• Public Act 25-44: Changes to Consumer Protection Laws, including increased compliance obligations for advertising, warranties, and dispute resolutions.
• House Bill 7287: Change to the State Set-Aside Program for certain state-financed municipal public works or quasi-public agency contracts. Bill 7287 defines which businesses can compete for contracts, potentially expanding opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses.
• PA 25-12: Changes to Workers’ Compensation

Free to Amity Chamber members, businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profit associations, CLICK HERE TO REGISTER FOR THE FREE PROGRAM

Amity Chamber of Commerce members are invited to join us for Camp Cedarcrest’s Annual Clean-Up Day on Saturday, April 11th, starting at 9:00 am.

Enjoy a fun and rewarding morning helping us get camp ready for the season. Volunteers will rake, clean, paint, and work together to make a big impact.

It’s a great opportunity to give back, connect with others, and enjoy some fresh air—and if your children or family members need community service hours, this is a perfect chance to get involved!



Please reach out with any questions to iurban@campcedarcrest.com.

We look forward to seeing you there! 

Ivory and Jacob Urban

Camp Cedarcrest

886 Mapledale Road

Orange, CT. 06477

campingct.org

Upcoming Events: Further Details to Follow Soon!



• Amity Chamber Business Symposium & Expo, July 22nd, Yale West Campus, Orange.

• Amity Chamber Community Awards and Annual Meeting, September 17th, Courtyard by Marriott, Orange.

Chamber Corporate Partners: Thank you!

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