Don Venice of Garware Fulflex USA Inc. stands with his employees holding the Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation’s Founders Award from Al Claussen, BDCC’s Real Estate Director he received. Photo Credit: Kristopher Radder, Brattleboro Reformer
BRATTLEBORO – It seems everyone but Don Venice knew he was receiving the Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation’s Founders Award at its annual meeting in October.
“People here knew,” said Venice, who’s been with Garware Fulflex on Putney Road for 50 years.
Venice said he was “thinking about” attending the annual meeting but hadn’t really made up his mind when a co-worker mentioned it.
“I’m thinking, ‘Why is he telling me I have to go?’” said Venice, who, when he got home, told his wife it looked like he was going to the meeting because of some sort of award ceremony.
“‘It’s supposed to be a surprise,’” said Venice, quoting his wife. “She says ‘I’m going and the kids are going.’”
Venice has been with Fulflex since 1975, currently serving as vice president of operations. He started his career in Bristol, R.I., moving to Brattleboro in the 1980s.
At the October meeting, Venice received the award from Al Claussen, BDCC’s real estate director, who spoke about Venice’s 50 years of leadership, dedication, and service at Fulflex.
“Under Don’s leadership, Fulflex became a global leader in thin-gauge calendered rubber sheeting and specialty elastics — materials used around the world in medical, hygiene, textile, and industrial applications,” said Claussen.
