Around the Chamber-July, 23 Preview

AROUND THE CHAMBER July, 2023

In This Issue

3- Chamber Briefs 16 - Behind the Scenes (Mike Rainville)

Connect With Us!!

22- Focus on Non-Profits (Age Well) 32 - Best Practices (Employee Retention)

CHAMBER BRIEFS After 20 years as local host of Morning Edition, Mitch Wertlieb is passing the mic to colleague and All Things Considered co-host Jenn Jarecki. Wertlieb will stay at Vermont Public to host The Frequency, Vermont Public’s daily news podcast, beginning this fall.

The Addison County Visitor Center welcomed its' 600th visitor in late June and Park Squeeze in Vergennes became the latest major advertiser joining Maple Landmark, Vermont Cider, Dakin Farm, Otter Creek Bakery & Deli, Hare and the Dog, Sabai-Sabai and others putting their businesses in front of a growing number of visitors to Addison County .

The Middlebury Car Show and Fall Festival has been named one of the 10 Best Auto Shows in Vermont! The event, now entering its' 2nd year, was developed and is administered jointly by the Chamber and the Better Middlebury Partnership and drew over 2,000 attendees last year. Read about the top 10 Car Shows in Vermont HERE

10 Best Auto Shows in Vermont!

thank To all of the Addison County businesses that have stepped up to thank sponsor our community events this year you! you!

SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE FOR ALL THREE EVENTS CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFO

KENNEDY BROTHERS

Park Squeeze 161 Main Street Vergennes, VT 802-877-9962 Tuesday through Saturday 4pm to 8pm

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Around the Chamber

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ACCOC publishes Around the Chamber monthly and it reaches thousands of business, non profit leaders and their employees in Addison County and beyond. Around the Chamber boasts an average 49% open rate with an average read time of 8:30 Members are encouraged to supply their announcements and events by emailing phil@addisioncounty.com. For ad availability and rate card email phil@addisoncounty.com.

Addison County Chamber of Commerce. 2023, All Rights Reserved

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s e n e c S e h t Behind with ille Mike Rainv

Each month, "Behind the Scenes" features an interview with a leader in our community designed to provide readers a glimpse into his/her interests and passions inside and outside of the workplace This month, "Behind the Scenes" sat down with Mike Rainville, owner of Maple Landmark in Middlebury Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Lincoln and I still live there.

Where did you go to school?

I went to Lincoln Community School and Mt. Abraham. I got my B.S. from Clarkson University in Potsdam, NY. First ever job?

My first paying job was for rolling bales in the hayfield when I was 6. My grandparents had a hill farm, a dairy and sugaring operation (Maple Landmark Homestead) where I helped a lot.

My parents then owned the general store in Lincoln in the 70’s and 80’s, which became the center of family activity. As a teenager I mowed lawns in the summer and I started my woodworking business before I was old enough to drive myself to the lumberyard. I’ve never regularly worked outside these family enterprises.

Mike Rainville

Who was your greatest inspiration growing up?

Probably my entire extended family. They set a good example of hard work, service, and community involvement. Since it was largely around family businesses (farm and store) there was a lot of transparency for me about the working world, involvement with the land, and dealing with the public. My parents were originally both teachers and that world was fairly transparent as well, especially when my mother was my first grade teacher and my grandmother was the principal. I’m glad my sons had a chance to have an equivalent experience growing up here at the shop. As an employer, it is sad to see young people with absolutely no sense of how to go about making a living.

s e n e c S e h Behind t with ille Mike Rainv

Who do you most admire?

Typical work week?

Currently I follow Jordan Peterson regularly. He has an uncommon ability to broadly observe and speak about the world with a very honest and practical level of understanding.

It is welcome clarity against the current culture which too often tends to revel in self-satisfying falsehoods.

I usually tell people that is classified information. I’m usually at work every day, trying to catch up or get ahead. I will say that on weekdays there isn’t much traffic on the road during the hours I come and go.

Favorite Vacation Spot?

No place in particular. I’d like to say anywhere I can relax but when we go away there is a tendency to try to make the most of wherever we are and then come home to rest. I’ve been to NYC more than anywhere else for business and pleasure and I rather enjoy the city, in limited doses.

Favorite movie, music?

TV – M*A*S*H. Nothing has held my attention the same way since. Movie – I’ve always liked the small movie Local Hero. It is a fun, quirky hometown sort of story with a great soundtrack by Mark Knopfler.

Biggest Career Challenge?

My biggest challenge came a few years after college. I had to confront that, while I liked making stuff, I wasn’t great at selling it (a common trait among woodworkers). I was gaining customers, but it was a slog that was wearing me down and I couldn’t visualize a better plan. One day I received a letter from another small wooden toymaker across the state who was looking to sell out. Short story, the deal became my solution. It augmented what I was doing in several positive ways and got me over the critical mass hurdle. It germinated our development of NameTrains a few years later and we quickly outgrew the Lincoln shop and built in Middlebury.

What's the one thing you would like to see change in your business/industry?

I wish the industry and society would place more value in children’s toys. I’m not sure which is the cart and which is the horse but for generations toys have been cheapened and devalued. They were among the first products outsourced to What's the greatest career risk you have Asia to save a nickel or a dime, with decreasing taken? thought to their design. At one point the largest Often the biggest risks aren’t recognized as such distributor of toys was McDonalds with their until they are in hindsight. Starting a wooden toy “free” happy meal toys. Too many toys are business in the age of plastics was not the discarded or broken by Dec. 26, that is not a good easiest thing to do. Then again, maintaining a thing. Neither are screens for small kids, they wooden toy business in the age of electronics is need to learn the physical world. … well, at least I’ve lived consistently.

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FOR INFO ON ADVERTISING AT THE VISITOR CENTER

GO HERE

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FOCUS ON NON-PROFITS

Greetings! I am excited to introduce you to Age Well’s feature as this months’ nonprofit focus.

Thank you Addison Chamber of Commerce for the spotlight! We are grateful for the privilege to serve older Vermonters and their caregivers in Addison County. In 2022, we served over 2,200 Addison County residents providing 41,139 Meals on Wheels, 2,815 community meals, 10,360 grab and go meals, 3,000+ hours of care coordination, and 430+ hours of options counseling.

Our services are provided free of charge to the community. Volunteers and donations make our mission possible.

Keep reading for information about our services, volunteer opportunities, and more.

With Gratitude,

Jane Catton, CEO You’re invited - Join us for a meal!

For those able to venture out, we serve meals in gathering places and restaurants throughout Northwestern Vermont, providing an opportunity to stay connected to your community, enjoying time with friends and neighbors.

Learn more about these and all our upcoming Community Meals and Grab & Go sites, contact Michelle Eastman, Nutrition & Wellness Coordinator for Addison County at michelle@agewellvt.org or 802-377-1419.

Addison County Office 39 Court Street in Middlebury.

New: Pleasant Hills Congregate Meal Every other Wednesday, we have a community meal at Pleasant Hills at 92 Mountain Road in Bristol.

Upcoming dates include July 26th, August 9th, and August 23rd.

Restarting: Vergennes Armory Lane Every week on Thursday, we have a community meal in Vergennes at Vergennes Senior Housing at 50 Armory Lane.

FOCUS ON NON-PROFITS

Caregiver Support

Caregiver Training

Being a caregiver can be challenging, exhausting, and rewarding work. We are in the business of making it less hard. Whether you are new to caregiving or looking for fresh resources, Age Well offers programs to help you manage the daily needs, including the Helpline: 1-800-642-5119, classes for caregivers, and downloadable resources.

We offer training opportunities for caregivers which focuses on everything from reducing stress, improving self-confidence, balancing your life, and locating resources.

Find more caregiver resources by calling the Helpline at 1-800-642-5119, online at agewellvt.org/services/home-carecoordination/caregiver-support, or on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@AgeWellVT.

Tips for Caregivers: • Plan ahead • Take one day at a time • Accept help • Get enough rest and nutrition • Be good to yourself • Learn about available resources • Develop contingency plans • Make YOUR health a priority • Make time for leisure, rest, and relaxation • Share your feelings with others Financial Support for Caregivers: Dementia Respite Grant The Dementia Respite program provides small grants to unpaid caregivers of individuals with irreversible dementia. The purpose of the grant is to help delay or prevent nursing home placement by offering support and relief to caregivers who care for their loved ones, including in-home services, adult day programs, or personal respite for the care provider.

Find Your Stride at Otter Creek Park Age Well has partnered with MVP Health Care to offer a free walking program. As an MVP Strider you will move through strength and balance exercises, walk at your own pace, and reap the many benefits of walking. Receive an MVP Striders Walking kit and connect with a great group of people.

Middlebury at Otter View Park, Tuesdays at 9:30 am from July 18 - August 22. It's free, fun fitness geared towards older adults (60+), but open to all, even if you're not a MVP member! You can even join after the program has started.

Space is limited and registration is required. For questions or assistance registering for classes, call MVP at 1-800-665-7924 (TTY 711). Learn more: https://www.mvphealthcare.com/about/events

FOCUS ON NON-PROFITS

Try Tai Chi this Summer Did you know, Tai Chi is an evidence-based health program that reduces stiffness and pain, keeping joints mobile?

Age Well provides free classes for individuals who are 60+ years of age. Taught by certified volunteer trainers, there is no charge for these classes, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Find our full list of Tai Chi classes on our website’s events calendar: agewellvt.org/events/tag/tai-chi Give Back When You Volunteer There are several ways to you can give your time as an individual or as a business by volunteering including: • Friendly visits with older adults • Delivering Meals on Wheels • Minor home repairs, building ramps, and yard work • Providing transportation to medical appointments • And more!

Contact to the Volunteer Department to learn more: 802-662-5273 or volunteerservices@agewellvt.org.

Our Middlebury Office & How to Contact Age Well Our Addison County office is at 39 Court Street in Middlebury. We are open Monday's, Wednesday's, & Friday's from 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Call the Helpline at 1-800-642-5119 to learn more about our services or online at agewellvt.org.

Follow Age Well on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, & LinkedIn to stay up to date on the latest services and events.

Age Well is a 501(c)3 non-profit, our services are offered free of charge.

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Keys to Employee Retention and Acquisition Description The last few years have been particularly challenging in retaining and acquiring employees, especially those ‘keepers’ who make all the difference in the world. Beyond the ‘Great Resignation’ and ‘Quiet Quitting’ impacts, the demographics of our brave, little state are working against employers.

August Educational Webinar Series

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In this fast-paced, tools driven work-session, we will be provided tips and tools from a long-time HR professional on what we can do to move the needle on retaining our employees and finding really good ones when we have job openings.

During this session, we will get some audience participation, even while being virtual, through polls, breakout discussion and videos.

The goal will be to leave participants with some new ideas on these key topics.

Date and Time Tuesday Aug 15, 2023 9:30 AM - 10:30 PM EDT Via Zoom Presented by Ross Gibson The Richards Group

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Best Practices "Best Practices" is our new recurring feature designed to give your organization helpful advice for maintaining efficient operations

ATTRACTING & RETAINING EMPLOYEES IN A TIGHT JOB MARKET

In April 2023, the number of job openings in the US increased to 10.1 million, while the number of voluntary turnovers remained unchanged, and the number of hires decreased. Presumably, small businesses and non-profits are feeling the effects of this tight job market the strongest as they have few employees to begin with, and the owners already manage many different aspects of the business without the added stress of trying to hire new employees. While competitive salaries and wages are valuable to both current and prospective employees, they are not the only important aspects in determining retention.

Outside of salary, benefits and opportunities are valuable components considered by employees. Try providing voluntary benefits that are customizable and flexible. Your employees are all at different stages of their lives with different lifestyles, and their benefit options should reflect this. Another benefit you could implement is allowing for more flexible schedules. The ability to provide reasonable accommodation will provide you with an edge, particularly with employees who may have to care for a family member.

If appropriate, you should also allow for remote work.

Not only does this add to the offered benefit of flexibility, which attracts employees, but it may also allow you to expand the geographic parameters of your employee search. Another important practice to take up is that of providing opportunities for growth, whether that be increased responsibility or personal development training. Understanding an employee’s long term career goals is important and will help you best accommodate them, which will in turn encourage long term commitment

Best Practices "Best Practices" is our new recurring feature designed to give your organization helpful advice for maintaining efficient operations

ATTRACTING & RETAINING EMPLOYEES IN A TIGHT JOB MARKET

Employees also look for a sense of community and respect in their job search. A positive work culture and sense of belonging are important, and not having them could be a deal breaker for some. Make sure expectations are clearly defined and give feedback that is consistent and fair. Go a step further and show your appreciation and recognition.

Celebrating employee contributions, providing praise, and saying thank you goes a long way in creating a work culture where employees feel respected, and empowered staff that are included in goal setting and decision making are more likely to want to make a long-time commitment.

Lastly, to solidify a positive work environment, make inclusivity a core value.

You should not only create a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement, but practice it as well. It is important to employees that you mean what you say, and by ensuring equal pay, diverse hiring, and DEI-focused objectives, you can prove the DEI statement is not just for show.

There are many ways you can attract and retain employees, but you won’t know if they work for your business until you try them. After you implement a new retention strategy, it is good practice to keep track of your turnover and hire rates, so you can see what works and continue to adapt to this tightening job market.

Competitive salary Voluntary benefits Flexible schedules Remote work Growth opportunities

Positive work culture Sense of belonging Inclusive values Appreciation and recognition

Thank you!

Thank you!

Welcome New Members

Thank you!

Thank you!

Each month in "Around the Chamber" we will recognize new and renewing members for their support in helping ACCOC enhance and improve the business and non-profit communities in Addison County.

HERE

HERE

Officers Robert Feuerstein, Kennedy Brothers (Chair) Megan Mandigo, Marble Trail Financial (Treasurer) Nancy Foster, Champlain Valley Properties (Secretary) Adam Rainville, Maple Landmark (Past Chair) Phil Summers, ACCOC (Executive Director) Directors Dickie Austin, Black Sheep Bistro Amy Carlin: Middlebury College Doug Dewitt, Bristol Financial Services Meaghan McLaughlin, National Bank of Middlebury Ned Horton, Otter Creek Bakery and Deli Marty Kulczyk, Robert Frost Mountain Cabins Bethany Dever, Dever Accounting Services Article IV, Section D Designate Directors Karen Duguay, Better Middlebury Partnership Renny Perry, Addison County Economic Development Corp.

Renny Perry, Vergennes Partnership Bill Sayre, Addison County Regional Planning Commission Alicia Standridge - Bristol Core