Our Seasonal Family Grows a Little More

Patrick had a second son in April: Kellan.  Mother Sylvia and their new baby are doing great.  It seems like only yesterday that a 16-year-old Patrick interviewed for a job here.  But that was almost 20 years ago!

There were three graduations this  year:  Morgan, Jack, and Andrew all graduated from Milford High.  Morgan is going to Springfield College, Jack is headed for UNH Dover, and Andrew is going to New England College.

I had a very nice honor in May. Here is an explanation that ran in a few local papers:  Dennis DiPaolo, owner of  Seasonal Specialty Stores in Amherst, has been recognized by the National Retail Federation for his contribution to advocacy and named as an America’s Retail Champion, He will fly to Washington, D.C., in late May to take part in NFR’s Retail Advocates Summit. 

DiPaolo is one of 41 small business retailers to be named as a 2016 Champion and is in the running to be named as a finalist and honored as the America’s Retail Champion of the Year. 

“These men and women truly personify the American Dream, and it is important that Washington lawmakers hear first-hand from retail job and opportunity creators in towns large and small across the country,” said NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay.  “We thank (them) for taking time away from their businesses to make sure the voice of retail is heard loud and clear in our nation’s capital.”   The America’s Retail Champions program, now in its third year, honors retailers who make their mark on public policy debates directly affecting the industry.

No, I didn’t win the top spot, but the free trip to Washington, D.C. for the awards banquet was a pretty good gift. Even better, was the opportunity to meet with Congressman Guinta, Congresswoman Kuster, Senator Ayotte, and the Chief of Staff for Senator Shaheen. It was a very special experience.

We just heard of another nice honor.  Telescope Casual Furniture named their newest (2017) collection of furniture after my late wife Jeanne:  The Larssen Collection.  Jeanne was highly respected by many in the patio furniture industry, and particularly by the people at Telescope.  She advised them on colors and fabrics in the 1990’s and 2000’s.