InTouch Newsletter

December 2020

What’s Inside: Chamber Inserts: • From the Board • Business Breakfast Series • Calendar of Events 2021 Schedule • People News • Chamber White Paper • Member News • Gift Certificate List of • Member Spotlight: One Bridge Consulting Participating Businesses

50 ELM STREET, WATERVILLE, ME 04901 • TEL: (207) 873-3315 • FAX: (207) 877-0087 [email protected] • www.midmainechamber.com Joy McKenna, Chair of the Board • Kimberly N. Lindlof, President & CEO From the Board - Joy McKenna—Board Chair In the first InTouch of 2020, I used this Just like every business in our community, the chamber has space to look forward to a promising year had to pivot and continuously adapt. of continued growth in our region. There We’ve become a resource to ensure businesses have accurate was a collective sense that we had great information on PPP, CARES and other resource streams that momentum going into the new decade help them keep afloat. Staff is keeping up with the very latest due to the hard work by so many dedicat- on health protocols and reopening checklists. New promo- ed people in our community. tions have been ongoing to support downtown businesses. We’ve distributed masks and signage to small businesses. That column began: “You can feel the excitement in our We’re here to help. Because we want each and every region! But that doesn’t mean success is inevitable. That member to survive and thrive. takes purposeful and sustained support.” Thank you to those businesses that have maintained their This year brought the most unpredictable of challenges to our membership and have continued to support the chamber in region, as it has throughout the world. The pandemic caused other ways – whether it be in sponsoring events, putting ads immediate and painful changes to businesses, schools and in this newsletter, contributing gifts to the Super Raffle, field- families. We’re now in a “third wave” of COVID-19, which ing a team in the golf tournament, or being a part of one of brings with it renewed concerns for our individual and our many committees. collective welfare. Thank you also for setting a record for chamber gift certificate A key take-away from the last few months is that your Mid- sales this year. This supports our member businesses when Chamber of Commerce is an essential resource to our they need it most. business community. In all these ways, you’ve been supporting the important work The chamber directors took actions to ensure we keep our happening here. We know it’s not been easy. staff whole precisely because in this era of uncertainty and COVID-19 won’t last forever. We’ll need to keep adjusting, real pain, their work is even more important. They’ve never and we will so we can continue to support you and our been busier. community. Joy

Could your business use some Extra marketing exposure? Chamber Chatter airs weekly. Call to schedule now: 873-3315 #1 Requested Item Opens Sponsorship Opportunities: Mid-Maine Chamber Map & Guide

Do you want to get your business in front of area Free Marketing Opportunity college students? How about people relocating to Be a “Spotlighter” at our Business the area? Tourists? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you need to do a sponsorship Breakfast Series in the Mid-Maine Chamber Map & Guide. This Spotlighters are Chamber member businesses 2-year, full color publication is being revamped and that host a table at a business breakfast, shar- enhanced with an abundance of recreational oppor- ing information and/or services. The table must tunities that exist in our region. Street maps of be staffed and a tablecloth supplied. A table Waterville, Winslow, Vassalboro, Oakland, Fairfield and chairs will be provided. and Belgrade provide sponsors with a chance to Your business must be in good standing with locate their business on the map. In addition to the Chamber and you must sign up in advance. printing 12,000 copies, this map will be linked on the Spotlighters may present once per calendar Chamber Web site. year. A maximum of three spotlight tables are available at each breakfast, one per industry. Contact [email protected] or While there is no fee, we ask that you supply a 873-3315 for more information on sponsorship sizes and investment. door prize item valued at $50 or more to be drawn at the breakfast. Call or email Business Breakfast Series attendees in [email protected] or 873-3315. November at the Waterville Country Club for Active Shooter Training. Spotlighter Josh Hunt of KSW Credit Union:

Shawn O’Leary, Dirigo Safety LLC, with Business Breakfast attendees.

If you are interested in a sponsorship space in the InTouch monthly 24 HOURS newsletter, this space is available. Call 873-3315 or email 365 DAYS [email protected] A YEAR!

CHAMPIONS FITNESS CLUB is now open 24/7! 30 Elm Plaza, Waterville, ME 04901 (207) 873-0571 www.championsfitnessclub.com

Calendar Of Events

Dec. 1 -Join New Dimensions FCU for an interactive webinar the lights and decorations, get some hot chocolate and on Credit. This is information you don’t want to miss out on. cookies. Then pick up your free family gifts and food basket to fmi: https://newdimensionsfcu.com/educational-webinars. help you enjoy the season!

Dec .1 - Dec. 12, UWMM is partnering with Skowhegan Dec. 19—Quarry Road Trails Community Ski Free with Learn to Regional Chamber of Commerce to collect toys to distribute Ski clinic. fmi: www.quarryroad.org. throughout Somerset County. Donations can be dropped off at the SRCC office. You can also shop our Registry for Good, any- Dec. 20—Quarry Road Trails Eastern Cup Ski Race. time, here: www.tinyurl.com/uwmmregistryforgood. A cross –country ski race mostly for high school, college and master level skiers. fmi: www.quarryroad.org Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12 at 7:00 p.m. and Dec. 6, 13 at 2:00 p.m.

The Waterville Opera House presents Almost, Maine, live-streamed. fmi: www.operahouse.org. Ribbon Cuttings Dec. 6 - Quarry Road Trails . A cross-country ski race open to Join us Friday, Dec. 4th at 10:00 a.m. at all community members of all ages. fmi: www.quarryroad.org. Bolley’s Famous Franks of Waterville,

96 College Avenue Waterville. Dec. 9—8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Are you ready to hit the slopes this winter? Feeling out of shape or worried about an injury? The Cavern at the Tavern Ribbon Cutting—Nov. 5 Take advantage of Back in Motion Primed to Shred Fitness Assessment. It’s FREE— so call to schedule your spot today: 207-707-4789.

Dec. 12—7:30 p.m. Colby College presents Virtual Fall Ensem- ble Concert . This semester we are proud to present a show- case of performances from our ensembles. Colby College ensembles include Colby Collegium, Jazz Band and the Colby Symphony Orchestra. fmi: https://www.colby.edu/musicdept/upcoming-events. Our 2020 Ribbon Cutting Sponsor: Dec. 15—10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. KV Connect is sponsoring a Blood Drive at O’Brien’s Event Center. 375 Main Street, Water- ville. Visit www.redcrossblood.org to register.

Dec. 19—4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Alfond Youth and Community Center is hosting a Drive-In Holiday Gift Event! Come to enjoy

Presented By

Best Western Plus, 375 Main Street, Waterville

December 16 December 3 4:00–5:00 p.m. 7:15–9:00 a.m. This is your opportunity to interact with area business owners and meet some of our new representatives Reps will offer legislative The Power and Impact of the Written Word in Business. This is a updates and information on new bills being considered. Additional facilitated discussion by Ted Helberg on using effective and accurate word choice, grammar, and organization in business writing. It will Zoom registration updates will follow. interject a little humor, discussion on common errors, and methods to

correct them. Sponsored By

December 9 December 10

4:00–5:00 p.m. 1:00-2:00 p.m. Join MMCC and friends for a virtual Business After Hours. This event will Speaker: Jonathan Godbout, co-founder and CIO of iBUILD, will dis- still offer a great opportunity to “mix & mingle” with other business pro- cuss the mission of iBUILD and how the company plans to grow and fessionals. We will be offering the virtual mic around the screen to any- change communities for the better. Links to the Zoom presentation one who wants to take the opportunity to speak and let us know what will be available on the Tech Night web page as the date gets closer. your business has been Doing. Win “real” prizes in a virtual format. Visit www.centralmaine.org MidMaineChamber.com to register for the event.

Sponsored by: Beverage Sponsor: Sponsored by : Beverage Sponsor: Harold Alfond Institute for Business Innovation

KNOWLESMECHANICAL.COM (207) 445-4092

Commercial & Residential Plumbing * Heating * Ventilation A/C * Refrigeration * Core Boring Metal Fab * Sales and Service Installs, Maintenance and 24 Hour Energy Service Member News Chamber Benefits

Quarry Road Trails Snowmaking has begun! The awesome crew of snowmaking volunteers is ensuring reliable early and late season skiing for the community! Big shout out to them! Multiple days (still counting) of snowmaking so far. Can’t do this without its amazing volunteers!

GHM Insurance Agency is pleased to announce that its Oct. 8th annual golf tournament to support meals for children at Alfond Youth and Community Center raised $24,250, bringing Do you know of someone looking its all-time total to over $500,000.00. Outstanding! for a job? Check out www.midmainechamber.com—It is Six Maine-based attorneys of Preti Flaherty, were included in loaded with new job postings. the 2020 New England Super Lawyers List – 10 others were named “Rising Stars.” https://midmainechamber.com/cms/jobs/ Ware-Butler Inc. Lumber & Building Supplies and the Giguere Family announced early last month that it has joined Chamber BlueOptions the Pleasant River Lumber (PRL) family. There will be no Don’t settle for one health plan. Get a change as Ware-Butler will continue to operate as a stand- package of eight with different levels of alone company under Pleasant River. coverage! Find out more about these unique plans, created exclusively for Maine’s state, Champions Fitness Club is now open 24/7…365 days a year! regional and local chamber members www.championsfitnessclub.com with two to 50 employees. To see a more detailed benefit comparison chart, download United Way of Mid-Maine is now working 100% remotely. the Chamber BlueOptions brochure. They can be reached at 873-0686 www.uwmm.org https://www.anthem.com/ms/mainechamberblueoptions/ docs/2019-Chamber-BlueOptions.pdf

Do you have events to share? Log into our website and add post your events for all to see: www.midmainechamber.com. Bill Layton from Colby College, presents Kim Lindlof a check for $500 to the Joseph B. Ezhaya Scholarship fund.

People News New Members

Ann Mitchell of Mitchell Tardy Jackson Government Affairs Bee’s Snack Bar has been recognized for her exceptional support of the dental Danielle Sylvester profession over the many years by the Maine Dental Associa- 1 Lithgow Street tion with inclusion on its Honor Wall. Winslow, Maine 04901 MaineGeneral Health announced that Dr. Stephen Meister, 207-314-3844 medical director of the Edmund N. Ervin Pediatric Center, was presented with a 2020 Giraffe Award from the Maine Chil- Hight Family of Dealerships dren’s Alliance for lifetime achievement. The award recognizes Sam Hight Dr. Meister’s commitment and work to improve health care for 242 Madison Avenue/ PO Box 528 children statewide. Read the Maine Children’s Alliance infor- Skowhegan, Maine 04976 mation about Dr. Meister’s award at 207-474-3334 https://mainechildrensalliance.wordpress.com/2020/10/29/ www.hightauto.com meet-steve-meister-2020-giraffe-award-winner/. Sunset Flowerland & Greenhouses Donna DeMarsh has joined the Coldwell Baker Plourde Real Cathy Hebert Estate team. Welcome! 491 Ridge Road Fairfield, Maine 04937 KVCAP is pleased to announce the hiring of Raymond Girouard as its new Chief Financial Officer. Welcome aboard, Ray! 207-453-6036 www.sunsetflowerland.com

Do you have changes, milestones, or news The Lockwood Hotel to share about your employees? Jordan Rowan Send us your people news: 9 Main Street [email protected] Waterville, Maine 04901 1-800-760-7718

Mid—Maine Chamber Calendar Dec. 7 4:45 p.m. KV Connect Steering Committee Chamber Energy – Solar Offset Tree Tracker Dec. 8 7:30 a.m. Public Policy Dec. 11 7:30 a.m. Executive Committee 27 Trees Dec. 16 4:00 p.m. Meet the Reps - Virtual Dec. 18 11:30 a.m. Directors’ Luncheon—Virtual Saved in Dec. 30 7:30 a.m. Marketing & Membership Committee October PRE-SORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID

50 Elm Street PERMIT #146 Waterville, ME 04901 Waterville, ME 04901 Change Service Requested

Member Spotlight - One Bridge Consulting One Bridge Con- began moving to a work-from-home sulting, Inc (OBC) setting, the demand for outside- is a locally network access and other business owned Managed continuity solutions skyrocketed. Service Provider Businesses began embracing the with a focus on same cloud-based services that did cloud compu- not receive as much consideration ting, network security, automation, and helpdesk services. Found- from them before the pandemic. ed in 2016, their mission is to help clients evolve their business OBC has partnerships with a diverse group of vendors and devel- procedures, increase their efficiency while also improving their opers, and their techs are certified to provide support for end us- security posture. OBC helps these businesses evolve through digi- ers and administrators alike. Despite these well-established part- tal transformation, which is the strategic adoption of digital tech- nerships and certifications, OBC remains agile and vendor-neutral; nology. They offer specifically tailored solutions to their clients, they make recommendations based only on what fits their clients’ opting to act as a business partner rather than a vendor. needs. A new client relationship always begins with an assessment How are they able to effectively customize solutions? For starters, of their current state. They evaluate the procedures and technolo- Douglas Ennis, the owner and founder of OBC, has over 25 years of gy already in place, recommending improvements to the existing experience in technology. He founded OBC because he identified infrastructure before anything else. an unfulfilled niche in managed IT services world. OBC provides a OBC has experience in many different industries. From healthcare “bridge” between businesses and the technology needed to make to non-profits; large corporations to small businesses. OBC works them more secure, more adaptable, and more profitable. with companies that have every type of in-house IT, whether it be The year 2020 proved to put a bright spotlight on the value that a small team or large team, OBC can assist in creating a roadmap Doug wants to bring to the industry. The COVID-19 pandemic has for your company to reach its technical goals. been a huge disruption to our normal way of life, but OBC has Be sure to check out their website for more details on how OBC been able to thrive in the situation. As offices around the country can assist you in bringing your current environment to a whole new level, and to schedule your free consultation! www.obc.tech

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce will not be increasing its membership dues in 2021.

Disclaimer: Mid-Maine Chamber’s InTouch newsletter is published monthly as a benefit to members and affiliates. All member news is compiled and submitted solelyby our members; therefore, we reserve the right to omit and/or edit as appropriate and cannot guarantee complete accuracy of all announcements. Sponsorship inserts do not necessarily reflect the position of Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce. NOTE NEW LOCATION: Best Western Plus—375 Main Street, Waterville, ME Thursday, December 3, 2020—7:15 to 9 a.m. The Power and Impact of the Written Word in Business

Our presenter is Ted Helberg, a recently-retired business executive with an extensive background in English and management. Ted will share how to make the best impression in your communications.

Take this opportunity to network with other business leaders and to join Ted and your Chamber for a discussion on using effective and accurate word choice, grammar, and organization in business writing. It will interject a little humor, discussion on common errors, and methods to correct them.

Some items regarding CDC guidelines for attendance: out of concern for the safety of attendees, attendance at this indoor event will be limited to a maximum of 50 persons. Tables and seating will also be spaced out, and a plated breakfast will be provided, as opposed to the buffet offered in the past. Masks are requested to be worn for registra- tion, and until seated. Separate entrance and exits are offered to minimize passage of attendees, upon arrival and departure, and hand sanitizer will be provided.

Pre-Register Today: Cost per person: $20 members; $27 at the door and non-members. TO REGISTER: E-mail: [email protected] • PHONE: 873-3315 • FAX: 877-0087 (PLEASE NOTE: Cancellations must be two (2) business days prior to theevent to avoid being charged.)

Thank you to our 2020 Business Breakfast Sponsors:

Print media sponsor Radio sponsor Video sponsor Santa’Santa’ss Bookshop Opens Up aatt the Mid-Maine Chamber VisitorVisitor Center

Children’s Books can be picked up at 50 Elm Street, Waterville 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. This yyear,ear, KringlevilleKringleville Monday - Friday will be completely virtual,virtual, Nov. 30 - Dec. 23 using the Zoom platformplatform forfor video and phone callscalls.. Mid-Maine Chamber is proud to keep the tradition of passing out books at Kringleville alive. Registration is first come, first serve. With extra precautions, the distribution will be from Please call or text the Kringleville the Mid-Maine Chamber Visitor Center this year. Scheduling Center at (207) 956-0334 to schedule your time slot.

Children who have a virtual visit with Santa In your message, include your name, email, will be given a ticket to be able to pick up a children’s names (if you’d like!) and anything else you’d like to mention to Santa! book during normal business hours. Thanks to the continued generosity of Marden’s and Sappi Fine Paper, the Chamber is able to host Santa’s Book Shop as a part of its mission to advocate for early childhood literacy throughout the mid-Maine region. MID-MAINE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 50 Elm Street, Waterville, ME 04901 207-873-3315 www.midmainechamber.com

Where Does Your Chamber Stand on the Issues?

2021 Policy Positions

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce is dedicated and committed to promoting, educating and advocat- ing for business prosperity and regional economic improvement. Our mission involves advocating for public policy that will assist our region to prosper and grow. The Public Policy Committee has developed and imple- mented these policy positions for the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce with the endorsement of the Cham- ber’s Board of Directors.

While we firmly believe in the effectiveness of these policies, we also acknowledge that reasonable people can disagree about policies and politics. We maintain that vigorous, but respectful, debate on political issues is a vital input to democratic government and civil society more generally. We do not support ad homi- nem attacks and the incivility that has crept into political discourse. Especially in the months following an

Education & Workforce Development

Educational opportunity and achievement are essential to the region’s economic health and quality of life. Without an educated workforce and diligent efforts to develop the pipeline of workers that businesses need to compete globally, our competitiveness for quality workers will diminish. Our region struggles to replace the high rate of retiring workers with a qualified workforce needed, as our college students are leaving the State for higher-paying jobs. To that end, the Chamber supports:

• Developing a comprehensive strategy to attract and retain workforce. • Aligning education opportunities with private, public and non-profit workforce needs to attract skilled workers to mid-Maine. • Promoting and expanding of quality early childhood through twelfth grade curriculum and programs (including public, private and charter schools). • Encouraging schools to share and combine resources so that more opportunities are offered to students in a safe and healthy environment. • Promoting mid-Maine as a higher education hub. • Increasing high school and higher education going/attendance and completion rates through financial aid awareness, expanding transfer agreements, dual and concurrent enrollment classes and Career and Technical Education. • Encouraging math and writing taught throughout high school. • Promoting development of a regional, long-term education strategy that sets timelines and outcomes including specific training of pandemic procedures/protocols tailored per profession. • Encouraging CareerCenters, Local Workforce Investment Boards and educational institutions to work hand-in-hand in a coordinated manner. • Supporting policies that encourage and increase in-migration of workforce including attracting more people to become year-round residents. • Establishing clearer pathways to citizenship. • Recognizing that our workforce is aging and that in order for our businesses to survive and/or thrive, transitioning workforce must replace our retiring workers. • Advance broadband capacity to support telehealth and other health care technology based services.

1 Health Care

The cost of health care remains at the top of the list of concerns to members of the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce. Our Chamber supports efforts that:

• Continue to advance the quality of care and improve the health of Maine’s population to reduce the overall cost of health care including prescription drugs, to advance the goal of reducing the cost of health insurance for employers and employees. • Advance broadband capacity to support telehealth and other health care technology-based services. • Address the critical demand for education and training of the health care workforce to meet current and future needs. • Effectively implement comprehensive solutions to address the opiate crisis. • Address the critical demand for comprehensive elder care services that workers and their families rely upon to support older adults.

Transportation

Transportation is a key component of economic growth, and as such the Chamber supports making investments in our transportation infrastructure a priority. To that end, the Chamber supports:

• Better maintained roads and bridges (upgraded infrastructure) working with DOT, municipalities, etc. particularly on communication to share with membership. • Public transportation, such as KVCAP’s bus system, that serves the needs of the region’s population of all ages, enabling them to live, work and have access to our downtowns and centers of commerce. • Advocacy towards fully linking the KVCAP bus system, i.e. Waterville, Skowhegan & Augusta transit. • Development of a regional airport; support of passenger and freight railroad systems from Portland to Bangor via the Lewiston line. • Policies that encourage public and private infrastructure investments in transportation and logistic systems that support economic growth, including the Federal U.S. Foreign Trade Zone Program.

Telecommunications

Broadband capacity is now a critical component to economic development, stability and growth within the region. This technology holds the promise of eliminating geography as a concern with respect to our eco- nomic growth. Further, the industry mix here – research labs, factories, libraries, educational institutions and biomedical firms – is such that strong broadband connections are a necessity for the mid-Maine region to be successful. To that end, the Chamber supports:

• Public policies that will allow for greater penetration of high-speed broadband in our market, especially ultra-high speed connections used by technology companies whereas all of our students and telemed- icine have to have increased access/better broadband. • Economic development strategies that target companies with a high demand for bandwidth and to bet- ter attract technology firms to our region. • Policies that encourage public and private infrastructure investments in telecommunications that sup- port economic growth focusing on unserved areas. • Preservation and enhancement of incentives for continued private broadband investment and invest- ment in important broadband adoption initiatives.

2 Energy

Mid-Maine Chamber endorses an energy policy that realizes the goals of lowering the price of electricity, lowering the cost of energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in a way that results in cost effec- tive and sustainable solutions. Specifically, the Chamber supports: • Regulatory reforms that lower electric transmission and delivery costs for business as well as promo- tion of local distributed generation such as community solar and industrial co-generation. • Research and development of cost-effective sustainable alternative energy sources including, but not limited to, domestic solar. • Continued implementation of cost-effective energy conservation and efficiency policies, including those techniques and strategies supported by the EfficiencyMaine Trust. • Increased utilization of renewable energy sources such as hydropower greater than 100 megawatts that will achieve Northeast Goals of increased utilization of non-fossil energy sources. • Reducing the price of electricity by increasing natural gas pipeline capacity into New England by 1-2 billion cubic feet per day as natural gas can be a useful bridge fuel to renewables. • Increased capacity for natural gas infrastructure systems to deliver low-cost, domestic natural gas supplies to consumers including large-scale energy users, households and alternative utilization. Taxes

The tax burden on Maine businesses is too high and the structure here discourages growth. Mid-Maine Chamber supports:

• Taking no action that would increase property taxes. • The State of Maine’s tax laws conforming with Federal tax laws. • A tax code that is easy for businesses to understand and comply with. • Continued scrutiny of government spending and looking for ways for the government to be more efficient. • Opposition to local option sales tax initiatives. • Reducing tax rates at every level of government in order to promote more retained earnings for work- ers and a better environment for businesses and employers of every size to grow.

Regulatory Reform & Policy

Mid-Maine Chamber supports State and Local policies designed to expand opportunities and prosperity for our region. Our Chamber supports:

• Regulations written in terms that businesses can easily understand, and regulators can consistently interpret and implement. • Regulatory reforms that remove barriers to job growth and retention without compromising public health, environmental and consumer protection. • Any changes in regulations to be carefully reviewed to see what increased costs they may place on businesses verses the benefits the regulation provides. • Government policies that permit individual incomes to grow faster than the rate of government spending. • Policy-regulation-capacity that minimizes the obligation of Maine taxpayers with the issuance of government debt. • Policy-regulation-capacity that creates a positive investment climate. • The U.S. reevaluating its free trade agreements to insure that they are benefiting the Maine people. • The re-evaluation of the referendum process in Maine and not use ex post-facto. • Promoting and increasing public access to outdoor recreational opportunities including lakes, rivers, trails, parks, etc. • Preserving the constitutionally-protected right to freedom of association to advance their common interests. Caution and due care should be used before changing election laws. 3 Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce 50 Elm Street PRE-SORTED STANDARD 2021 Board of Directors Waterville, ME 04901 U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #146 Waterville, ME 04901 Brandi Meisner, Chair* Skowhegan Savings Bank Heather Thorne, 1st Vice Chair* Coldwell Banker Plourde RE Michelle Joler-Labbe, 2nd Vice Chair* Thomas College Bruce Harrington, Treasurer* Maine State Credit Union Gary Levesque, Director-at-Large* New York Life Insurance Joy McKenna, Past Chair* MaineGeneral Health Dr. Richard Hopper Contact Your Representatives Kennebec Valley Community College Linanne Gaunce Regional State Representatives Central Maine Motors Auto Group Representative —District 110 Regional State Senators Rick Whalen 13 Gilman St., Waterville, ME 04901 Senator —District 15 Choice Wealth Advisors [email protected] 99 Winthrop St., Augusta, ME 04330 [email protected] Bill Layton (207) 692-7143 Representative Timothy Theriault—District 79 (207) 441-9418 Colby College 1210 Lakeview Dr., China, ME 04358 Senator —District 17 Larissa Larrabee [email protected] 123 Black Rd., Wilton, ME 04294 [email protected] Huhtamaki (207) 968-2641 Representative Richard Bradstreet—District 80 (207) 491-4667

Shawn Michaud 44 Harmony Lane, Vassalboro, ME 04989 Senator Glenn Curry —District 11 Cunningham Security [email protected] 13 Parkside Lane, Belfast, ME [email protected] Rick Barry (207) 861-1657 Representative Daniel Newman—District 76 (207) 287-1430 - Northern Light Inland Hospital 33 Caribou Rd., Belgrade, ME 04917 Senator —District 3 Greg Zimba [email protected] P.O. Box 687, Norridgewock, ME 04957

T-Mobile [email protected] [email protected] (207) 458-1837 (207) 634-3074

Martha Wentworth Representative Cathy Nadeau District 78 Senator — District 16 GHM Agency 943 China Rd., Winslow, ME 04901 363 Albion Rd., Benton, ME 04901

Brian Bowman [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] (207) 453-7787 Bowman Constructors (207) 314-6107 Mike Guarino Representative Michael Perkins—District 77 U.S. Congressional Delegation Maine Wilderness Tours, Belgrade 93 Willy Point, Oakland, ME 04963 Senator Susan Collins—statewide [email protected] Lakes Regional Business Group & Snow (207) 622-8414 (207) 716-6968 www.collins.senate.gov Pond Center for the Arts Rep. Amanda Collamore—District 106 —statewide Dr. Melik Peter Khoury 173 Library St., Pittsfield, ME 04967 Senator Angus King (207) 622-8292 Unity College [email protected] (207) 679-7305 www.king.senate.gov Mark Bradford Representative Bruce White—District 109 Congresswoman Chellie Pingree—1st District 1 Silvermount St., Waterville, ME 04901 Valley Beverage (207) 873-5713 [email protected] Ken Walsh 207-660-8722 www.pingree.house.gov Alfond Youth & Community Center Representative Shelley Rudnicki-District 108 Congressman Jared Golden—2nd District Garvan D. Donegan, ex-officio 211 Norridgewock Rd., Fairfield, ME 04937 (207) 784-0768 Central Maine Growth Council [email protected] www.golden.house.gov 207-314-6898 Kimberly N. Lindlof, President & CEO* Representative Mary Anne Kinney- District 99

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce 40 Maple Lane, Knox, ME 04986 [email protected] *denotes member of Executive Committee 4 207-568-7577 Children’s Book Cellar Home Town Veterinary Care at Garland Road Children’s Discovery Museum HomeStyle Custom Kitchens and Baths Christopher Hastings Confections Hometown Veterinary Care - 18 Below Raw Bar & Grill Colby College Humane Society Waterville Area

A&G Shooting Color Graphics LLC Incense and Peppermints

AAA Travel and Insurance Comics, Cards & Collectibles Jessica Rae Photography

Advance 1 Cleaning Services, Inc. Community Production, LLC Jin Yuan

AFC-Augusta Fuel Company CrossFit 137 Johnny’s Selected Seeds

Alfond Youth & Community Center Damon’s Beverage & Redemption Jordans Cleaning Solutions

American Glass Company Day’s Jewelers Joseph’s Market

Amici’s Cucina Days Travel Bureau Kennebec Electric & Lighting

Animal Hospital of Waterville Diane’s Travel Agency Kennebec Eye Care

Apollo Day Spa & Salon Dixon’s Country Market Kennebec Valley Community College

Are You Ready To Party?? Downeast Energy Kennebec Valley Human Resources Association

Aroma Joe’s Elm City Photo, Inc. Korner Store & Deli

Asian Café Emery’s Meat & Produce KSW Federal Credit Union

B&B Embroidery and Ink Engine 5 Bakehouse, LLC Lakeside Landscape

Back in Motion Physical Therapy Erica’s Lavender Designs

Bacon Farm Maple Products LLC Evolution Salon Lion’s Den Tavern

Bee’s Snack Bar Eye Care of Maine Little Pictures of Maine

Belgrade Lakes Boat Auto & RV Storage Eye for Detail Loyal Biscuit Co.

Best Western Plus – Waterville Fairfield Antiques Mall Lyman’s Aimish Furniture

Beverly’s Card & Gift Favorites OTB Lynch Landscaping

BNI Elm City Referral Source Chapter Fieldstone Gardens Inc. MacKenzie Landscaping, Inc.

Boards Under My Feet Firehouse Subs Magic Falls Rafting

Bromar Printing Fireside Inn & Suites Maine Fire Equipment Co.

Buen Apetito Fortin’s Home Furnishings Maine Wilderness Tours - Bug Busterzzz Fowlers Roofing Maine ly Power Sports

C. B. Davis Co., Inc. GHM Agency MaineGeneral Health

Campbell’s Agway True Value Governor’s Restaurant Mainely Brews Restaurant & Brewhouse

Cancun Mexican Restaurant Grondin’s Certified Cleaners Mainely Docks

Capital Area Federal Credit Union Grub Marden’s, Inc.

Care & Comfort H&R Block McCormack Building Supply, Inc

Caswell’s Liquidation Center Hamelin Furniture Company Meridians

Central Maine Chrysler Dodge Jeep Hamlin’s Marine Meridians Kitchen and Bar - Central Maine Motors Hammond Lumber Company Mid Maine Homeless Shelter & Services

Central Maine Power Hampton Inn Ming Lee

Central Maine Septic & Portable Toilets Hemphills Horses, Feed and Saddlery, Inc. Minuteman Signs

Central Maine Toyota Heritage House Mix Maine Media

Central Maine Web Hillman’s Bakery Monitor of Maine

Champions Fitness Club Holy Cannoli Morning Sentinel

Chase Toys Home Energy Answers Nardi Appraisal Service Natanis Golf Course New Dimensions Federal Credit Union Trailside Performance New England Animal Hospital Treasure Chest II A GIFT Northeast Laboratory Services Uncle Dean’s Natural Market O’Brien’s Irish Restaurant & Pub United AG & Turf NE, LLC One River CPAs Valley Arbor Care Inc. FOR YOU! OPA Valley Springs Essentials Parsonage House Virtual Dimensions People’s Salon & Spa Ware-Butler, Inc. Pete’s Pig Southern BBQ Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity Pine Tree Cellular Waterville Country Club Pleau’s Market Waterville Creates! Portland Pie Waterville Elks Lodge #905 PRO Moving Service Waterville Florist & Event Planning RE-BOOKS Used and Rare Books Waterville Public Library Redington Museum Yankee Communications Renarda’s Kitchen Yankee Trophy Retail Therapy Consignment Boutique Rita’s House of Pizza Saturn Business Services (SBS Carbon Copy) School Street Yoga Selah Tea Café Sherwin-Williams Silver Street Tavern Smile Solutions Smiles for Maine Orthodontics by Dr. Charlie Ruff Snow Pond Center for The Arts & Restaurant Snow Pond Cruises and Historical Tours Somerset Stone & Stove Spell Bound – A Gamer’s Paradise State Farm Insurance – John Fortier Steve’s Appliance Service & Sales Thank you to our sponsor! Strictly Roofing The Barber Parlor The Framemakers The Hungry Caterpillars Learning Center The Last Unicorn The Pointe Afta The Proper Pig Thompson Volkswagen Audi Mazda Tonia’s Tips & Trims Best Western Plus - Colby/Coburn Rm. - 375 Main St., Waterville - 7:15 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. January 14: 10 Tips for How Your Small Business Can Beat COVID-19: Nancy Marshall of Marshall Communications will offer tips to address how businesses and business leaders can embrace adaptability, exercise empathy in the workplace, and take action to assure success during and after the pandemic.

February 11: Human Resources Law and Best Practices in Challenging Times: Peter Lowe of Brann & Isaacson Attorneys will cover new workplace laws, best practices for workplace safety and compliance, legal issues surrounding remote telework and key policies and practices for employers.

March 11: Leveraging Community Marketing Opportunities: Founder & CEO of MXH Marketing, Mary Haley will discuss what community marketing opportunities really are and how to leverage them to engage current customers, attract new ones, and get the best return on your investment.

April 8: Engaging the Generational Divide: Career Management Associates CEO David Ciullo will address the effectiveness of organizations in valuing and creating a culture where all generations thrive and engagement soars, capitalizing on the strengths of different workstyles to communicate better, lessen conflict, and achieve results.

May 13: Cannabis Panel: Local business leaders Dawson Julia (East Coast CBD), Ryan Poulin (New Dimensions FCU), Bill Rafuse (GHM Agency) and Erik Gundersen (State Office of Marijuana Policy) will address changes and updates in the cannabis market with regard to retail/growing, insurance, finance and regulations.

Sept. 9: Business Panel: The Pivots to Success During COVID-19 and Beyond: Business owners Chris Gaunce (Central Maine Motors Auto Group), Mike Fortin (Fortin’s Home Furnishings), Robin Samalus-Getchell (The Robin’s Nest) speak to their challenges/successes and offer helpful tips to continue to flourish during and after the pandemic.

Oct. 7: Legislative topic to be determined.

Nov. 4: Help for Small Businesses: A speaker from CEI will share multiple resources available to small businesses including outlets for payroll challenge, business maintenance or expansion and helpful contacts and program information.

Dec. 2: In the Arena: A Discussion About Leadership: Sen. Matt Pouliot and Amanda Olson (of Maine Mushroom Co.) will explore the varying challenges that leaders face in their respective roles.

Cost per person: $20 members; $27 at the door and non-members. Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce, 50 Elm Street, Waterville, ME 04901-6015 TO REGISTER: E-mail: [email protected] • PHONE: 873-3315 • FAX: 877-0087 (PLEASE NOTE: Cancellations must be two (2) business days prior to the event to avoid being charged.) All CDC protocols and procedures are followed for this in-person programming. Proudly sponsored by:

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