I was born and brought up, the youngest of four sons, in Westerly, Rhode Island, a mile and a half from the beaches of Weekapaug.
I graduated from Alfred University, in western New York State (where there were two seasons – the snowy season and the fourth of July) with a degree in Political Science and a teaching certificate.
Teaching, at least in a school setting, never happened. I worked as an Executive for the Boy Scouts of America, starting in Reading, PA, and taking a promotion to a council in western Massachusetts. In order to advance in professional Scouting, it is usually necessary to relocate. At the time, we (my wife and two sons) were settled in Agawam and Nancy informed me that I could move, but that she and the boys were staying here. One of my Scouting volunteers had recently bought a promotional products (at the time called Advertising Specialties) distributorship and I went to work for him. That lasted 15 years, during which I learned much about business and about promotional products.
In 2001, I bought CHH Engraving. At the time, it was a small trophy shop, owned by a retired engineer and teacher, as something to occupy his retirement and generate income for his and his wife’s frequent vacations. (He would put all his expenses on a frequent flyer credit card, then use the points for travel.)
Over the past 22 years, we have continued to provide excellence in adult awards – plaques and trophies for ballroom dance competitions and college, university and other employees, staff, and volunteer recognition. Despite the name indicating “engraving”, a large portion of our business is all manner of branded products - any product that can be printed, embroidered or engraved, to help businesses, schools, colleges, and organizations to identify, promote and recognize.
I continue to teach, in a less formal setting, educating people of the benefits of promotional marketing, involvement in my church youth programs, Scouting particularly when the boys (both Eagle Scouts) were involved, Junior Achievement and the Agawam Rotary Club (President 2008-2009, 2020-2022).
Come visit us at 430 Main St, Agawam!
chhengraving.com, 413-789-2041
