caption:

 

Ribbon Cutting

The Arc Quinebaug Valley recently opened 2 business in a new location. Front, left, holding ribbon: Lynn Bourque, Dawn Lazaroff, Susan Desrosiers, Norma Cassettari, Pam Brown, Nikki Williams, Linda Lamoureux and Gene Michael Deary. Courtesy photo.

 

WOODSTOCK — Members of The Arc’s Board, staff and employees were joined by customers, friends and members of the Chamber of Commerce and the Putnam Business Association to officially open The Arc Emporium and Redemption Center in their new location at 22 Rt. 171 recently.

The former Bardell’s Decorating Center has certainly taken on a new look. The Emporium Store features new and gently used housewares, clothing, books, videos and many treasures. 

The Redemption Center offers customers an opportunity to redeem their bottles and cans with the CT five cent mark quickly and efficiently. Employees count out the order and pay out the returns. The Arc also accepts donations of returnable bottles and cans to help fund their many programs which offer support for individuals with disabilities in our area.

“We are very proud to have one of our founding parents of the organization, Norma Cassettari, here with us to celebrate this great achievement,” said Executive Director Susan Desrosiers. “Norma, who is 96 years old, is still one of our strongest advocates. She continues to contact the governor and others to fight for the needs and rights of children and adults who need our services.” The Arc is celebrating 65 years of service in the area and these businesses are a testament to the support received from the local community.