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THE CHAMBER N E W S CHAMBER ACTIVE for 2010 ELECTION YPLAA WELCOMES NEW CHAIR
INSIDE:
2010 will be a watershed year for the State of Maine, with the election of a new governor and many changes in the State legislature. The Chamber works to bring members the best information available to help them make informed decisions. Again this year, the October Chamber Breakfast will invite the major candidates for governor to join us to share their views. This event is a sure sell-out, so make sure to reserve your place early! Scheduled for Thursday, October 14th at the Ramada.
Chip’s Column
Calendar of Events
2010 ELECTION MONITORING PROJECT
Golf Scramble
Every two years, the Business Advocacy Committee undertakes a systematic review of candidates for the legislature to let Chamber members and the public know how each candidate stands on issues important to Maine’s economic health. This year (as we have done every other year for the past twelve), The Chamber will develop a comprehensive review of candidates and publish that review prior to the November election. That report will include the following:
Fall Seminar Line-up
Education Committee
Business Advocacy
Best Places To Work Honors
The 2010 Election Monitoring Report will be published in October.
Post Recession Business Climate
The Chamber is working with The Young Professionals of the Lewiston Auburn Area (YPLAA) to plan a candidate’s meet and greet forum - Candid Candidates 2010 - on Wednesday, October 20th beginning at 5:00pm at the Hilton Garden Inn. The goal is to create an environment for YPLAAers and Chamber members to interact with candidates running for Androscoggin County State House and State Senate seats in a THE BUSINESS SERVICE social setting, learning more about where they stand on key CENTER AT KEYBANK PLAZA local issues. Light appetizers and cash bar will be available.
WWW.ANDROSCOGGINCOUNTY.COM
E-MAIL: INFO@ANDROSCOGGINCOUNTY.COM
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Candid Candidates 2010 is designed as an informal evening with tables available for candidates to display personal literature and other information. For attendees not yet registered to vote, registration cards will be available and collected for distribution to Androscoggin County voting districts. Each attendee will be informed of their House and Senate Districts so they know who to connect with during the evening.
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The following awards are for individuals or businesses that have supported YPLAA or Young Professionals (not necessarily in the 20-40 age range): Mentor Award – an individual who has successfully impacted a Young Professionals life to help them achieve success Business Champion – a business that has supported YP’s in their organization to be a part of YPLAA and participate in events and other activities. If you would like to nominate someone, visit www.yplaa.com. The nomination deadline is September 24, 2010.
CONTEST AIMS TO HELP YOUNG START-UP SUCCEED IN L-A
CANDID CANDIDATES 2010
P.O. BOX 59 LEWISTON, ME 04243-0059 PH: (207) 783-2249 FAX: (207) 783-4481 WEBSITE:
The 2010 YPLAA Annual Event & Awards will be held Friday, October 29th from 6pm to Midnight at the Franco American Heritage Center. $35 per person, includes a full dinner and entertainment by Veggies By Day. Dress for your favorite decade! 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, 90’s & beyond! To purchase tickets and for more information visit www.yplaa.com.
YPLAA is looking for nominations of exceptional under 40’s who live, work or volunteer in Androscoggin County for the following 2010 YPLAA Awards: Entrepreneur Award – a YP who has successfully started or expanded a business in the area Community Involvement Award – a YP who has exhibited proactive involvement in the community beyond their job duties “Against All Odds” Award – a YP who has become a success against all odds
The Chamber’s Business Advocacy Committee, led by Peter Traill of Nason Mechanical Systems and Clif Greim of Harriman Associates, is guiding the preparation of the report. Committee chair, Peter Traill: “Our aim is to make this information useful to not only Chamber Members but all voters as they make critical choices in this year’s election. There has never been a time when we needed to elect good leaders more. The future of our economy depends on it.”
Member in Focus
YPLAA ANNUAL MEETING
YPLAA AWARDS
• A brief biographical sketch of each candidate • The candidates’ views on critical issues in our area and on issues which face Maine employers • The candidates top three priority issues for the next session of the legislature. • A synopsis on how each candidate (incumbents only) was rated by 3 major groups: The Maine Economic Research Institute, The National Federation of Independent Business, and the Maine League of Conservation Voters.
What’s Up
Hillary Verrill took over as YPLAA chair on July 1st!
Do you know any budding entrepreneurs – perhaps a son or daughter, niece or nephew — who have moved away and are looking for a place to launch a great business idea? If so, they’ll want to know about an exciting contest hosted by the L-A Economic Growth Council and the Androscoggin County Chamber. The contest, called “Launch L-A,” will invite young entrepreneurs under 31 to submit their plans to start a business in LA. The most promising and creative start-up company selected will win an estimated $100,000 in cash and in-kind services. Entries will be accepted from Sept. 1 to Dec. 1, with the winner announced early next year. Part of the “L-A: It’s Happening Here!” campaign, “Launch L-A” is a broader effort to stay connected with youth who have roots in the community. “Launch L-A” contest entries will be screened by a committee of business and banking professionals who will judge the ideas on a… Continued on pg 6
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CHIP’S COLUMN
Over the last 15 years, The Chamber has been the symbol of the dramatic growth in the L/A area and the increasing vibrancy of our local economy. In 1995, Chamber membership was 623 members. Today it is well over 1300! 2010 is a critical year for Maine and for our local area. To hasten our economic recovery, we need to speak with one voice, support each other more strongly than ever, and promote our area as the premiere place in Maine to live, visit and do business. The Membership Committee is putting together a strong Chamber team to work with other business and community leaders to continue the momentum that has been built in our area. We are putting together a huge volunteer cadre of Chamber and community leaders to dramatically and publicly demonstrate that our area is recovering from recent tough economic times and that we’re open for business! The goal is 200 volunteers, each making 1-2 calls to prospective Chamber members during the week of October 2nd. Volunteers will choose the organizations they will contact. To assist our volunteers with the drive, we will provide the backup information needed to make the call(s) and we will hold a large training session as a kick-off to this major drive. Will you join us? Call me at 783-2249 — or send me an e-mail at cmorrison@androscoggincounty.com and say: Yes, Count me in for the membership drive.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
2010 Chamber Membership Drive Under the leadership of Chair Kurk Lalemand of Next Level Business Coaching, the Chamber Membership Committee is planning the largest membership drive in Chamber history
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Energy Seminar, “Planning to Reduce Energy Usage,” 11:30 am at The Chamber Chamber closed for Labor Day ALDI begins at the Chamber Chamber Breakfast, 7:15 a.m., Hilton YPLAA Culture Crawl Board of Directors meeting, 7:30 a.m. at Chamber Seminar, “Become a People Whisperer” with David Lee, Noon – 3:00 PM at The Chamber Business After Hours, 5-7pm, Riverside Millwork Center Energy Seminar, “Heating/Hot Water Options,” 11:30 at The Chamber Joint Business After Hours with the Portland Chamber at Spring Meadows Golf Club, sponsored by Androscoggin Bank, 5-7pm
OCTOBER 4 M 6 W 11 M 14 Th 15 F 20 W 21 Th 21 Th 28 Th 29 F
Brown Bag, “Budgeting for Your IT Needs,” Noon, The Chamber “Know Your Chamber,” Noon at The Chamber Columbus Day, Chamber Office closed Chamber Breakfast, 7:15 a.m. at Ramada Conference Center, Gubernatorial Candidate Forum Board of Directors meeting, 7:30 a.m. at Chamber “Candid Candidates,” 5:00 PM Energy Seminar, “Tax Law and Energy Improvements,” 11:30 am at The Chamber Business After Hours, 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Martindale Country Club Seminar, The Challenges of the Post Recession Workplace” with Rick Dacri, 8:30-11:30 am at The Chamber YPLAA Annual Meeting at the Franco American Heritage Center
NOVEMBER 2 T 4 Th 11 Th 17 W 18 Th 19 F 23 T 25-26
Brown Bag, “Writing a Press Release,” with Judy Meyer, Noon, The Chamber Business After Hours, 5:00-7:00 p.m. Austin Associates Veteran’s Day, Chamber Office closed Energy Seminar Series Finale, “Panel of Success Stories, Saving Energy and $$$,” 11:30am, at The Chamber Chamber Breakfast, 7:15 a.m. at the Hilton Chamber Board Annual Planning Meeting, 12:00-5:00 p.m. Kora Shrine After Hours, 5-7:00 PM Thanksgiving Holiday, Chamber Office closed
DECEMBER 2 Th Diane Jackson, representing Senator Snowe and Chip Morrison present a framed copy Congressional Record to Eric Agren. In that record, Senator Snowe pays tribute to Fuel and Eric & Carrie Agren.
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Tune in every Wednesday night at 9p.m. on Great Falls TV for
“Chip and The Chamber” This lively show highlights what’s going on at The Chamber and in the community. Also, Chip interviews guests for each show. Chip’s guest for September will be Dana Connors, President of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce. The guests for October will be Auburn City Manager Glenn Aho and Lewiston City Administrator, Ed Barrett.
“Chip and The Chamber” is produced and directed by Toni Seger of ProseWorks and Philip Larlee of Great Falls TV.
Chamber Seminar, “Putting Some Sizzle into Your 2011 Marketing Plan” with Peter Rinck, 8:30-11:30 am at The Chamber College for ME – Androscoggin Success Luncheon Chamber Breakfast, 7:15am, at The Ramada ALDI Graduation Business After Hours at Lost Valley, 5-7pm, Chamber Kids for the Holidays
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SCRAMBLE RAISES $40,000
FALL SEMINAR LINE-UP
The 11th Annual Chamber/CMCC Scholarship Scramble was held on August 25th at Springbrook Golf Club. The tournament raised over $40,000 for scholarships for local students. Our deepest thanks to Tournament Sponsor Roopers, and Co-sponsor Skelton, Taintor, & Abbott for their extraordinary generosity in underwriting the tournament. The other sponsors were:
The annual Chamber member survey identifies those seminars and workshops that Chamber members would like to attend. The result is a fall schedule of seminars and brown bag discussions with incredible diversity. Chamber workshop and seminar presenters are all Chamber members who are willing to share their expertise with other members. Year after year, members rate the seminar offerings very highly.
Hat Sponsor: Mechanics Private Bank Barbecue Sponsor: CMCC Corporate and Community Services Cart Sponsors: Platz Associates and Patrons Oxford Insurance Registration Sponsor: Evergreen Subaru Contributing Sponsors: The Buckley Group, Central Maine Orthopaedics, Procter & Gamble, St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, and Wal-Mart Distribution Center Putting Green Sponsors: Androscoggin Bank, Mountain Machine Works, and White Rock Distilleries Long Drive Sponsors: Liberty Mutual and The Meadows Senior Living Center Supporting Sponsors: Neokraft Signs & Sun Journal Hole in One Sponsor: Emerson Toyota Hole Sponsors: Advantage Gases and Tools, Anthoine Financial Group, AVCOG, Camden National Bank, Central Maine Medical Center, Champoux Insurance, Clover Health Care, Community Credit Union, Cote Corp, Downeast Energy, GHM Insurance, Harriman Associates, Healey & Associates, KeyBank, Key Investment Services, Nason Mechanical Systems, Norman, Hanson & Detroy, Ouellette & Assiociates, P.A., Pepsi Bottling Group, Redlon & Johnson, Southern New Hampshire University, Strainrite Companies, and Wahlco Metroflex.. Green Sponsors: Advanced Microsystems, Auburn Housing Authority, Auburn Savings Bank, Austin Associates PA CPA’s, Bangor Savings, Brann & Isaacson, Butler Bros, Canteen Service Co, Central Distributors, Central Maine Power, College 4 ME Androscoggin, Curry Printing and Mailing, Encompass Marketing and Design, Evergreen MGA, Federal Distributors, FISC Solutions, H E Callahan, Hilton Garden Inn, International Door, Isaacson & Raymond, Kaplan University, Labonte Financial Services, Lebel & Harriman, Newfab, Inc, Northeast Bank, Penmor Lithographers, Ramada Conference Center, Reeder Chiropractic Health Care, RJF Morin Brick Company, Robustelli, Rotz & Soucy, Sebago Technics, Sheridan Corp, Spillers, TD Bank, Thayer Corporation, United Insurance Parent Agency, Wells Fargo Advisors, & Willis HRH of Northern New England. Other Sponsors: Five County Credit Union, Linnell, Choate & Webber, LLP, Riverside Millwork Center, Steele Service Center, Town & Country Foods, V I P Parts Tires & Service, & W D Mathews. Team sponsors: Advantage Gases and Tools, Androscoggin Bank, Anthoine Financial Group, AVCOG/MMEP, Camden National Bank, Champoux Insurance, FISC Solutions, Floor Systems, GHM Insurance, Harriman Associates, Isaacson & Raymond, KeyBank, Key Investment Services, Mechanics Private Bank, Nason Mechanical Systems, Neokraft Signs, New Market Mortgage, LLC, Ouellette & Associates, PA, Patrons Oxford Insurance, Pepsi Bottling Group, Platz Associates, Roopers, Sheridan Corporation, Skelton Taintor & Abbott, SPC Transport, Strainrite Companies, Sun Journal, TD Bank, Team Hall, The Meadows Senior Living Center, Wahlco Metroflex, and Wal-Mart Distribution Center.
September 8
17th annual Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute begins, facilitated by Steve Pecukonis of HRD Associates
September 23
Seminar, “Become a People Whisperer” with David Lee
September 29
Energy seminar, “Heating/Hot Water Options”
October 4
Brown Bag, “Budgeting for Your IT Needs”
October 21
Energy Seminar, “Tax Law and Energy Improvements”
October 28
Seminar, “The Challenges of the Post Recession Workplace,” with Rick Dacri
November 2
Brown Bag, “Writing a Press Release,” with Judy Meyer of the Sun Journal
November 17
Energy Seminar, Panel of local organizations talking about how they saved $$$ and energy
December 2
Seminar, “Putting Some Sizzle in Your 2011 Marketing Plan,” with Peter Rinck All programs (unless otherwise noted) will be held in the Community Conference Room at the Business Service Center at KeyBank Plaza. For more information about any of these programs contact Sue Schell or Chip Morrison at The Chamber.
CHAMBER EDUCATION COMMITTEE The mission of the Education Committee is to develop business/education partnerships and support quality education in schools across Androscoggin County. The committee is chaired by Mary Lafontaine of the Career Center and Jennifer Willey of Canteen Service Co. Programs of the Education Committee include: • annual career fair for all area high school sophomores • annual career fair for area 7th graders • annual community job fair • Junior Achievement (62 classes in 2008-9) • Chamber/CMCC scholarship scramble which raises over $42,000 to support scholarships for local students • support for College for ME - Androscoggin — raising aspirations of local citizens to attend post-secondary schools • conduct Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute • provide classroom volunteer resources to teachers who request them • identify critical workforce development opportunities If you are interested in helping out with the Education Committee initiatives, contact either committee chair or Chip or Jenny at The Chamber.
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WHAT’S UP…? Central Maine Federal Credit Union donated $500 to SeniorsPlus, to be used for their Meals on Wheels service. Gifford’s Ice Cream, which celebrated its 30th Anniversary in June, earned two first place awards in July at the 8th Annual New Jersey Ice Cream Festival. The designation of Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) has been conferred upon Mindy Noonan, Account Executive, of GHM Agency. Ready...Read! is a community based effort with the goal of helping adults understand the importance of reading each day to every child from birth through age five. This year’s goal was to collect 1000 books but the final count was closer to 2000! Advocates for Children received a new grant from the Maine Children’s Trust in the amount of $4,500 for parenting support and educational classes to be held in Androscoggin County. Deborah Dunlap Avasthi of HRH Northern New England has been elected president of the Maine Better Transportation Association.
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Nason Mechanical Systems awarded scholarships from the Harry E. Nason, Jr. and Frances J. Nason Scholarship Trust to children and spouses of employees of the company. Recent Scholarship recipients were Brian Bouchard, Rebecca Bouchard, Christopher Boone and Angela Turgeon. John P. (Jack) Barnes was named President, CEO and a director of People’s United Bank. Maine Warmers celebrates its 10th year in business! Do your employees need refresher classes in any Microsoft computer program? Pinnacle IT is offering computer training customized to meet your company’s specific needs. Call Kim at 207-330-1330 or email Kim.Crabill@PinnacleIT.com. Alina Burke, Vice President, Mortgage Loan Originator Northeast Bank has relocated to 232 Center Street, 2nd Floor, Auburn. Same great mortgage rates, just at a different location! Doggie Delights will be at Woofstock in Damriscotta on September 11 from 10am – 3pm, for more information visit www.woofstockmaine.com. Five County Credit Union will be opening their 12th office on Route 196 in Lisbon on Tuesday, September 7th.
The Alliance of Area Business Publications presented Mainebiz with a First Place award for Best Overall Design, a First Place award for Best Explanatory Journalism for its three-part “Powering up Maine” series, and Third Place for Best Special Section Design, for its “Women to Watch” feature.
Dave Griffiths of Dave Griffiths Communications has been selected to teach several writing courses at U.S. Dept. of Energy headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Katie Greenlaw has recently become a Wellness Coach with Mend-ABody Solutions. For more information, call Katie today at 207-212-1017 or e-mail kgreenlaw@mendabody.com.
Kaplan University starts new classes on October 13th! Courses in the Accounting, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Early Childhood, Medical Assisting, and Paralegal Studies programs are still available. Call 513-3660 for more information.
Former Chamber Board Chair Jan Barrett of the Ware Street Inn has accepted a position on the Professional Association of Innkeepers International’s (PAII) Advisory Council. Pat Jackson of Auburn Housing was awarded the 2010 Community Service Award by Advocates for Children. Kirsten Walter, Director of the Nutrition Center of Maine was a recipient of the Katherine O. Musgrave Public Service Award. Stop by Northeast Bank at 500 Canal St, Lewiston, to congratulate Sean Doucette in his new role as Branch Sales Manager. Thanks to a major upgrade bandwidth upgrade, users of the Auburn Public Library’s internet connection will now have access to a much wider range of services. The 2010 Community Credit Union recipients of the Gerald R. Langelier Scholarship are: Hanan Ahmed and Hanna Mogensen. Christopher Paradis has joined Central Maine Community College as a corporate training coordinator. AP Graphics and Fine Arts has launched a new website www.APGraphicsME.com. Gary Sholler was recently hired as an Account Executive for Records Management Center and Central Maine Moving and Storage. He covers the Portland, Lewiston and Auburn areas and can be contacted at 207-6591231.
The Lewiston Education Fund is holding its first annual wine and beer tasting dinner. It will be held at Fish Bones Restaurant, October 7. All proceeds will support ongoing grants for teachers to enhance academic excellence to students. FMI or for tickets contact Beth Gaudet at bgaudet@lewistonpublicshools.org or 795-4100 Ext #249. Uncle Andy’s Digest is celebrating its 15th Anniversary! August 1996 they published their first edition. A great big thank you to everyone who has made this possible!! SeniorsPlus 3rd annual Aging Well Living Well Expo to be held on October 1 at the Grand Summit Hotel and Conference Center at Sunday River. For more info and registration brochure call 1-800-427-1241 or www.seniorsplus.org. Mid-Maine Communications and Pine Tree Networks have merged and are now operating as OTT Communications. The Bread Shack at 1056 Center St, Auburn, is celebrating its 2nd year anniversary on September 18th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free samples, door prizes and new products will be introduced. 22nd annual Fall Festival and Season Pass Madness at Lost Valley, September 26, 10am – 4:00pm. Chair lift rides, hay wagon rides, Ball Bounce, Extreme sports Bungee Jumping, rock wall, and Laser Tag, Vertical Outlaws, Maine Event Cheerleaders, Paintball Target shooting, Face Painting, Beer Garden on the Deck, lots of great Food and fun for all ages. Last chance to buy Season Passes at our Madness prices!!
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GLEASON MEDIA SERVICES
Dick Gleason
President & General Manager Tel: (207) 784-5868 Cell: (207) 754-3777 E-Mail: DickGleason@Gmail.com Office: 555 Center Street, Auburn, ME 04210
Radio Stations
WOXO 92.7 & 100.7 • WEZR 1240 • WTME 780 & 1450
Internet Services
Email Marketing • Web Site Development www.GleasonMedia.com
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Robert Kennelly, executive director of Pathways, Inc., is the newlyelected chairman of L-A SCORE. Officers returning are Robert Sawyer, vice-chair; Peter Sassano, treasurer; and Ralph Tuttle, secretary. Maine Innkeepers Association and Maine Restaurant Association Members, “Employment Regulations that Affect your Business”. Sponsored by The ICS Group-Integrated Compliance Solutions (Lebel & Harriman), September 23 at the Portland Country Club. For more information call 207-347-4531. Lee Ann Szelog and her husband, Tom offer a premier presentation on sustainability titled, America’s Next National Park – The Maine Woods National Park. For more information visit www.mainewoodsnationalpark.com. René Minnis Photography offers commercial photography for your business. From products, to website images, corporate portraits, or events. Call anytime 838-6420 or visit www.reneminnisphoto.com Salvatore Bonetti, Financial Advisor, CRPS, was recently recognized by his firm as the 8th best Client Retention and Productivity in the country. This is amongst Sal’s peers at Morgan Stanley Smith Barney with the same Length of Service. The University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College is pleased to announce that James Myall has been hired as the Coordinator or the Franco-American Collection. The SHAREcenter will remain in the lower level of the Great Falls Art Center on Academy street in Auburn while it continues to seek donated space for a new home. Anyone who has space in the Auburn region who would like to help this great community organization continue or any school or non-profit who would like a membership please call 7950972. They are also seeking new Board Members and are always open to new volunteers! Six employees from Bath Iron Works were the first to complete a pilot program that was designed for new supervisors in the manufacturing areas of marine electrician, pipefitting, structural fitting and machining at Central Maine Community College.
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George Isaacson and Martin Eisenstein, lawyers from Brann & Isaacson were recently selected by their peers for inclusion in The Best Lawyers in America® 2011 (Copyright 2010 by Woodward/White, Inc., of Aiken, S.C.). Heutz Oil of Lewiston announced yet another way to purchase oil. “Prompt-Plus” adds the convenience of automatic delivery and 10 days to pay. For more information, call 782-3171, or visit www.heutzoil.com. John Snyder has opened On the Spot Rentals, www.onthespotrentals.com, a residential leasing & property management service. FMI: 713-0674 or JSnyder@regroupbiz.com. ReGroup! Business Solutions, www.regroupbiz.com, offers consulting & training in business infrastructure design & development and everyday risk management. Call Linda Snyder at 740-2247, or LSnyder@regroupbiz.com. The ICS Group (Lebel & Harriman) provides businesses with outsourced human resources expertise and employment related legal services. For more information or to set up an audit, please contact Deborah Whitworth, SPHR at 207-347-4531. Lewiston Auburn Rotary community service project for October will be The Center for Women’s Wisdom, Speaker October 30th Klara Tammany. Meetings are every Thursday, at Noon at the Ramada, lunch is $8. Lighting Concepts recently renovated its online presence, www.lightingconcepts.com, which features over 90,000 lighting items for sale. Chamber members are offered a 20% discount on purchases in the store, or a 5% discount when purchasing online (use coupon code CHAMBER at checkout). The law firm of Eaton Peabody has announced the addition of Edward F. Feibel to its Employment Practice. In 2009, Poland Spring gave more than $850,000 in grant money to 72 community partners.
L/A Arts welcomes two new Board of Directors - Kate Casparius and Marnie Coleman.
CMMC’s 2010 HEROES (Healthcare Employees Reaching Out with Exceptional Service) are: Nancy Chasse, Susane Driscoll, Lisa Ann Farnum, Carol Kane, Thomas Kearns, Pam Culleton, Kathy Jacques, and Maureen Higgins.
Charles C. “Chip” Hedrick, an attorney with Norman, Hanson & DeTroy, LLC, in Lewiston has been elected as Vice President of The Androscoggin County Fish & Game Association.
Central Maine Federal Credit Union presented books to Androscoggin Public Middle and High School librarians as part of their annual donation of “Books for Kids”, their signature community project.
The Ware Street Inn is taking reservations for holiday parties, it’s not too early to book your small gathering for the holidays! Call Jan at 7838171 and she’ll make your gathering special.
The Maine DOT is working in Poland to complete a 3.5 mile rebuild of Rte. 26, and a re-alignment of the intersection of Routes 11 and 26 at the Mechanic Falls town line. The Town is also in the process of selecting an engineering firm to design and build nearly 14,000 l.f. of sewer and water mains.
The Child Health Center’s Big Brothers Big Sisters annual Bowl For Kids Sake event raised over $59,000.00 to support their mentoring programs. Community Credit Union presented St. Mary’s Food Pantry with a check in the amount of $500. SeniorsPlus in Lewiston is seeking volunteer members for their Board of Directors and various committees. For more information, contact Betsy Sawyer-Manter, Executive Director, at 795-4010 or email bsawyer-manter@seniorsplus.org.
If you are hiring this year, we can reduce the risk you will hire the wrong person. Our new website shows you how: www.StrategicTalentManagement.com
ART BOULAY, MBA CEO & Chief Talent Officer 207.373.9301 ABoulay@StrategicTalentManagement.com
THE COMMUNITY CONFERENCE ROOM The Community Conference Room in the Business Service Center at KeyBank Plaza has become an incredible asset for both members and community groups. Hardly a day goes by when there aren’t one or two meetings or training sessions scheduled for the room. It is available for use by Chamber members at no charge. If you would like to use the Community Conference Room, contact Sue at The Chamber at 783-2249 or send her an e-mail at Sue@androscoggincounty.com.
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BUSINESS ADVOCACY COMMITTEE The goal of the Business Advocacy Committee is to gain greater commitment from elected representatives to address the needs of the business community by developing laws and policies that foster business growth. The chairs of the committee are Peter Traill of Nason Mechanical Systems and Clif Greim of Harriman Associates. The committee has three major activities: • Prepare and distribute the “What We Stand For” position paper - articulating Chamber positions on tax and spending policy, health care, business regulation, education, and transportation. • Make contact with elected representatives on specific policy issues being considered. • Develop working relationships with the Androscoggin County legislative delegation and encourage them to work better together. • Organize forums on major policy issues If you are interested in getting involved with the activities of the Business Advocacy Committee, contact either committee chair or Chip Morrison at The Chamber. CHECK YOUR LISTING!!!! It’s time again to update the annual Androscoggin County Business/Visitor/Relocation Guide! Accuracy is important, so we ask all Chamber members to assist us in providing updated information. Please check your business listing and let us know what changes need to be made. Be sure to let us know if you have added an e-mail address or website.
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Continued from page 1 …number of criteria including creativity, viability, and community need. The winning entrepreneur could receive an infusion of $10,000 - $20,000 seed money, along with a number of in-kind services for a year, including such services as business consulting, accounting services, legal fees, ad agency services, and more — all provided by Chamber members. Runners-up may also receive in-kind services. Bangor Savings Bank has already committed $5,000 to seeding the prize package, and Oxford Networks has agreed to provide Internet services. Applicants will be encouraged to support their idea using digital applications such as video presentations on YouTube, web sites, podcasts, and digital photos. Adding a page from the “American Idol” play book, finalists will be voted upon electronically by members of the community. Given the demographics of the target audience, many of whom are mobile and single, the contest will mostly be promoted virally using social media sites such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. A promotional video about the contest is being produced by Leighton Images and will be circulated on YouTube, as well as located on the contest web site. The video will feature local actors recruited by Community Little Theatre. In fact, to help spread interest or “buzz” in cyberspace, the initiative will feature a contest within a contest. Anyone who shares info about the contest virally to friends and family members through Facebook gets a chance to win a new Apple I-Pad.
FIFTH ANNUAL “BEST PLACES TO WORK IN MAINE” HONORS CHAMBER MEMBERS
Chamber members interested in contributing cash or inkind services should contact Chip (783-2249) as soon as possible to maximize their promotional exposure and meet the Sept. 1 launch.
The Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) Maine State Council has announced that 40 companies have been named in the fifth annual “Best Places to Work in Maine” program.
The contest also hopes to stay in touch with young people, particularly “expatriates” who have graduated from local high schools and have gone on to college out of state or moved away. Contest participants will have the choice of receiving e-mail updates about the community from LAEGC and the Chamber. “This is perhaps the most powerful ambassadors program we could launch,” says Paul Badeau, LAEGC Marketing Director. “Even if you decide never to relocate to L-A, you should know what’s going on here and feel proud of your home community – and hopefully share those sentiments with others.”
The event, presented in conjunction with the Best Companies Group, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, the Maine Department of Labor, Employment Times and Mainebiz, recognizes companies that have established and consistently fostered outstanding workplace environments. Androscoggin County Chamber members recognized, listed alphabetically, are: Albin, Randall & Bennett, Androscoggin Bank, Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice, Bangor Savings Bank, Bernstein, Shur, Sawyer & Nelson, Burgess Advertising & Marketing, Central Maine Healthcare, Evergreen MGA, Geiger, Moody’s Collision Centers, and Oxford Networks. The assessment process, administered by the Best Companies Group evaluated each company’s employee policies and procedures as well as responses from the company’s employees. The program marks the most recent step in a long-term initiative to encourage growth and excellence throughout all Maine companies. All the organizations involved in the competition will be honored at the annual banquet which will be held on October 12 at the Ramada Conference Center in Lewiston. Further details about the “Best Places to Work in Maine” program can be found online at www.bestplacestoworkme.com.
“Native sons and daughters often leave for college and don’t return, sometimes because they don’t perceive that gainful employment or opportunities can be found in Maine,” explains Laura Davis, a partner at Rinck Advertising who is also a member of the Launch L-A committee. “We hope people follow this story chapter by chapter, and change their perceptions about us.”
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2009-2010 BOARD OF DIRECTORS Art Boulay, Chair Strategic Talent Management
Susan Stacey, Chair Elect Central Maine Community College
Robin Robbins, Treasurer Androscoggin Bank
Peter Murphy, Past Chair Neokraft Sign Co
Jan Barrett Ware Street Inn Bed & Breakfast
Bob Bernier Advantage Gases and Tools
Susan Berube WGME-13
JoAnne Campbell Mechanics Savings Bank
Michael Cox Central Maine Orthopaedics
Doug DiVello Central Maine Healthcare Corp
Adam Dunbar Wells Fargo Advisors
Patti Gagne Patti Gagne Agency, Allstate Insurance
Stephanie Gelinas Sandcastle Preschool
Joyce Gibson USM at LAC
Clif Greim Harriman and Associates
Kevin Healey St. Mary’s Health System
Elaine Hemenway Payroll Management Inc
Jennifer Hogan Community Credit Union
Gretchen Jones Skelton Taintor & Abbott PA
Mary LaFontaine Career Center
Kurk Lalemand Next Level Business Coaching
Darlene Cadorette Levesque White Rock Distilleries
Rick Malinowski Procter & Gamble
Scott McKenney Hilton Garden Inn
Bryan McNulty Bates College
Iman Poeraatmadja Burgess Computer
Laurie St Pierre
Rinck Advertising, an Auburn-based advertising and public relations agency, has contributed its services in-kind to developing the logo and PR strategies for the effort.
Percy's Burrow
T.H. Creations, a Lewiston-based web site development company, is creating a web site to promote the contest. Companies interested in finding out more about the contest and how they can be a part of it should visit www.launchlamaine.com, or contact the Growth Council at 784-0161 or the Chamber at 783-2249.
Peter Traill
Peter Steele Twin City Times Nason Mechanical Systems Inc.
Hillary Verrill, YPLAA Chair Jennifer Willey Canteen Services
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brated Franco-American heritage from Quebec through Maine. “I’m very fortunate to have a successful business in the place I want to live the most, so I’m thrilled to be able to give something back, especially to The Chamber which has been invaluable in developing this business.”
MEMBER IN FOCUS: Ware Street Inn By Toni Seger, ProseWorks ™
It’s an urban oasis. That’s how Jan Barrett characterizes The Ware Street Inn and it’s an apt description. I’m sitting in a delightfully airy, glassed in dining area filled with period appointments and choice knick knacks while surrounded by gardens and tranquility. Eclectic and filled with personality, this award winning B ‘n B is an entertainment in itself. For one thing, you can play; Find the Shoes. The Ware Street Inn was originally the private residence of the Wellehan family, as in Lamey Wellehan, whose shoes Mainers have bought for nearly a century. Growing up in L/A, Jan Barrett witnessed the loss of shoe manufacturing and, in celebration of the industry that built her inn, she’s collected display shoes crafted in all sorts of mediums. A lot of the shoes are made of glass and were gifts from friends who knew she collected them. Some of the larger shoes are filled with shells because Jan is a water person. All of them are fun to find. Even Jan doesn’t know how many there are or where they all are. Jan’s father was in the military, so the family moved around a lot including overseas, but Jan always thought of L/A as her hometown. Because she grew up speaking French, she offers that as an added attraction to guests who appreciate being able to converse in their native tongue. Jan Barrett seems a natural for a B ‘n B, but she’s only owned an inn about 11 years. Before that, she worked in the US Senate offices of Senators Ed Muskie and George Mitchell. However, her last job in the political arena was as a state lobbyist for a law office. When she had to lobby on behalf of tobacco, this former smoker decided she needed an entirely new life with something that made her happy. After drawing up a list of pros and cons, Jan decided she wanted to own and operate a B ‘n B. She got a degree in hospitality management, but after an extensive search as far south as the carolinas, she couldn’t find the right property. So, she got a job as a sous chef to improve her cooking skills and it was in that capacity she found the ideal property. Ironically, it was her childhood dream house, the Wellehan family home. First constructed in 1940, it came on the market after its original owners died. Jan had come full circle back to her beloved roots. She loves the house so much, she even owns the blueprints. A half-dozen part-timers assist her in a wide variety of tasks at the full season inn. Jan says she and her husband Mike can go on vacation and know everything will be handled beautifully. Jan’s roots are richly enfused with L/A’s Franco-American culture and Jan has been heavily involved with all of it. Rotary, Franco-American Heritage Center, Lewiston-Auburn Economic Growth Council are just the boards Jan regrets she can’t give time to anymore. “I can’t just sit on a board. I have to participate,” she says energetically. That energy has led two Rotary district conferences including a recent conference that cele-
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Today, Jan’s understanding of local heritage has made her an exceptionally active member of The Chamber where she has led its board and is now focused on its regional image committee. “We have so much to offer tourists and we’re getting that message out, but we also need to change perceptions within our own population so they value their surroundings more.” In that regard, Jan works with others on a PowerPoint presentation about L/A directed at youth and other groups. The L/A story is an intrinsic part of The Ware Street Inn. Whether it’s business travelers who like to feel they haven’t left home or parents visiting their children at Bates College, Jan brings a personal touch to every traveler’s stay. “For me, marketing is an ongoing process of developing personal relationships. You have to intuit whether your guests would enjoy eating at a common table or whether they’d prefer more privacy. We strive to be ‘guest-centric’. We want your travel experience to be tailored to you.” Jan isn’t kidding. The Ware Street Inn tries harder even by New England Inns’ standards. They provide cloth napkins, sterling silverware and full place settings. Today’s B ‘n B has to be a combination of old world relaxation and new world technology. All of Jan’s rooms have work areas with wi-fi, TV’s with VCRs, comfortable reading chairs and an assortment of pillows. The rooms also have individual names that suit their decors with a story behind every name. With her extensive knowledge of the local economy, Jan serves on a small business advisory panel for Congressman Mike Michaud. “It’s a fascinating experience because I’m always learning something new about this area.” When the economy got sluggish, Jan decided to create a new income stream with catering services. The process required expanding the kitchen so it could be certified as ‘commercial’, but with her husband Mike already in the restoration business that wasn’t a problem. Jan has no shortage of catering clientele which isn’t hard to understand when you view her display book of mouth watering Hors d’oeuvres and party platters. Jan loves to cook more than anything and she’s gotten awards for her breakfast menu which includes her signature item, stuffed French Toast. I’m especially interested in this tasty dish because I intend to have it on my upcoming birthday. Jan also makes her own apple cider syrup, various berry syrups, even orange marmalade syrup. She likes to cook so much, she’s writing a cookbook that is also an anecdotal presentation of her own life connecting her kitchen experiences with life experiences. I’m sure it’s going to be a great seller. FMI: www.warestreetinn.com or call 783-8171.
Prst Std U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #27 LEWISTON, ME 04240
P.O. BOX 59 LEWISTON, ME 04243-0059
past. By creating a new workforce strategy, you will be able to move your organization to the next level. Participants will get specific examples of how organizations can thrive in this post recession environment and will hear what other area companies are doing to position themselves.
THRIVING IN THE POST RECESSION BUSINESS CLIMATE By Rick Dacri, Dacri Associates
The recession took a toll on most. Many, however, have used this period to reposition their company and refocus their workforce for the recovery, allowing them to gain new customers and upgrade their talent. Understand what you need to do. While the last three years have been painful, it also provided many with new opportunities. As one local executive stated “we are a better company because of it.� Make sure your company is ready to move forward.
Slowly employers emerge from the recession. Many were forced to make difficult choices and decisions that impacted their business, customers and workforce. Now begins the process of rebuilding, restoring profitability, and repositioning for growth. On October 28th, Rick Dacri will lead a half day Chamber workshop on the challenges employers will face with a post-recession workplace. Unlike previous recessions, this one was most severe and the recovery will be slow. Many of the lesions learned from past recessions will no longer apply. A new paradigm will be needed.
Rick Dacri of Dacri Associates is a human resource consultant, featured speaker at regional and national conferences, and author of the book “Uncomplicating Management: Focus On Your Stars & Your Company Will Soar.� Since 1995 his firm, Dacri & Associates has helped organizations improve individual and organizational performance. Rick connects with people in a positive and challenging way to offer practical solutions. He can be reached at, rick@dacri.com and www.dacri.com.
In this workshop, participants will learn how to increase efficiency and productivity while eliminating unnecessary burdens shouldered from the
THE HIGHLIGHT OF OUR COMMUNITY Go Online to
www.communitycreditunion.com and see what Trade Show Attendees said was the “HIGHLIGHT� of our Community! COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION
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