2 0 0 9 THE CHAMBER N E W S

INSIDE:

Member Survey Report

Calendar of Events

Community Band

Adopt A Spot

Chamber Connections

Twitter the Chamber

Scholarship Winners

The Falls Restaurant

Not Your Normal

Formal

Member in Focus

Chamber Training

Upcoming Programs

J U L Y

THE BUSINESS SERVICE

CENTER AT KEYBANK PLAZA

P.O. BOX 59LEWISTON, ME 04243-0059PH: (207) 783-2249FAX: (207) 783-4481WEBSITE: WWW.ANDROSCOGGINCOUNTY.COM

E-MAIL:INFO@ANDROSCOGGINCOUNTY.COM

P A G E 1 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

SIGN UP NOW FOR THE 2009ANDROSCOGGIN LEADERSHIPDEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE!!!The 18th Annual Androscoggin Leadership DevelopmentInstitute, sponsored by Central Maine Medical Center, beginson Wednesday, September 9 and ends with graduation onDecember 10 at The Chamber Breakfast. The Chamber beganthe Institute in 1992 and it has since graduated 278 local busi-ness and community members!

What is ALDI?The highly acclaimed institute is a ten-week programdesigned to improve leadership abilities. Participants focuson increasing confidence in their personal leadershipstrengths, improving their understanding of the community,and recognizing how to get involved. The topics coveredinclude Personality Types: understanding individual differ-ences, Team Building: situational leadership, Effective

Communications: active listening, Clear Self Expression:presentation skills, Effective Meeting Management,Conflict Resolution: problem-solving, and Personal Vision:action planning. There are also four community issue explo-ration sessions.

Why should you apply?The institute gives participants the opportunity to developskills that they need to become successful leaders. Theseleadership skills will foster professional growth, businessgrowth, and promote a strong and flourishing community.

Just ask the graduates!“ALDI was so much more than I expected! As a person bornand raised in Lewiston, I was amazed to learn as much as I didabout our L/A Community. Through the months I attendedALDI and participated in community discussions, I came torealize how fortunate I am to be living in such a dynamic andchanging environment. The weekly classes offered me, as abusiness owner, opportunity to learn valuable skills. The net-working with other ALDI members and opportunity to hearfrom community leaders opened my eyes to so many possi-bilities for L/A!  ALDI, under the leadership of the Chamberand Steve Pecukonis is a valuable resource, which I wouldrecommend unconditionally!”-Stephanie Gelinas, Sandcastle Preschool, 2007 graduate

“The ALDI program gave me the opportunity to take a goodlook at my community. Our group of 18 individuals learnedabout current local issues. We also learned about ourselvesthrough classroom activities and how we could each interactwith others in a more effective manner. I thoroughly enjoyedthe time spent in this program and the people I met in theprocess.”-Jennifer Willey, Canteen Service Company,

2003 graduate

“ALDI is probably the most valuable “course” I’ve evertaken. As a small business owner who is involved in my

community, the ten weeks of my time invested in classes finetuned my “soft” skills—in other words, improved andenhanced the quality of my communication AND defined mypassions in terms of my community and how I’d like to assistin its progress. My experience with ALDI clearly demon-strates the truth in the statements, “leadership is not a topic,it’s a lifestyle” and “the quality of your life is equal to thequality of your communication.” Participating in the ALDIprogram was a wise decision indeed!”-Jan Barrett, Ware Street Inn, 2005 graduate

“As the instructor of this program, Steve Pecukonis remindedus that you can spend, waste or invest your time. ALDI wastime well invested. This course is fun and packed with greatstuff to use in everyday life. I would highly recommend ALDIto anyone.”-Jim Marston, Uncle Andy’s Digest, 2005 graduate

“The Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute was byfar one of the best professional development experiences Ihave ever participated in. The facilitator was fabulous, thecontent very beneficial, and as a result of the course, I devel-oped many long- lasting networking contacts and several newfriendships. I highly recommend ALDI to all professionalsworking in Androscoggin County!”-Angela Westhoff, Healthy Androscoggin, 2007 graduate

Who facilitates the program?The Institute is run by Steve Pecukonis,who has designed and run leadership pro-grams all across the state for more thantwo decades. He founded his own humanresource development, training and con-sulting firm in 1985, where he trains andconsults with organizations in businessand industry, government, education,healthcare and social services. Steve fre-

quently speaks at conferences, seminars, and organizations allthrough the northeast. When given a scale of 1-5, 95% of par-ticipants in Steve’s training sessions rate him a 5 (Excellent)or a 4 (Very Good). Steve brings incredible experience toALDI, which creates first-class learning opportunities for par-ticipants.

Who should apply?• A business person who wants to develop leadership skills to benefit their workplace or community.

• A volunteer or board member of a community organization who would like to be able to better assist the organization’s development.

• A community member who wants to get involved andmake a difference.

How much does it cost?The fee is $535, which covers all material and meals.Participants can be sponsored by their employer, a communi-ty organization or they can apply individually. Limited schol-arship assistance is also available.

How can you apply?Applications are available at The Chamber office and atten-

dance is limited to the first 20 applications received. CallThe Chamber at 783-2249 for an application.

3 F Independence Day observed, Chamber closed4 S Liberty Festival, Auburn & Lewiston9 Th Chamber Breakfast, 7:15 am, Lost Valley10-12 Moxie Festival, downtown Lisbon Falls15 W Seminar, “Time Management for Women”, 11:30 am

The Chamber16 Th Business After Hours, 5-7 pm, Gritty McDuff’s Brew Pub

28 T Seminar, “Managing Risks and Making $$$ in a ChallengingEconomy”, 8:30-10:00am, at The Chamber

5 W Brown Bag, “Heart Health”, Noon at The Chamber13 Th Chamber Breakfast, 7:15 am, Ramada18 T Seminar on “Networking,” 8:30 am at The Chamber20 Th Business After Hours, Balloon Festival, 5-7pm. 21  F Chamber Board of Directors

21-23 Great Falls Balloon Festival, downtown Lewiston-Auburn26 W Scholarship Scramble at Martindale Country Club

7 M Labor Day, Chamber closed9   W Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute begins10 Th Chamber Breakfast, 7:15 am, Martindale17 Th Business After Hours, 5-7pm, Cassiel’s Day Spa

18 F Chamber Board of Directors, 7:30am30 W Entrepreneur’s Summit at the Hilton

COMMUNITY BAND CONCERTS BEGINJoin Milt Simon and the Auburn Community Band at Festival Plaza onMain Street in Auburn each week for free summer concerts. Now in its28th season, the band plays a different program of music everyWednesday evening, weather permitting.

Upcoming performances:July 1 An Evening of Patriotic MusicJuly 8 Music From Around The WorldJuly 15 American ClassicsJuly 22 Songs By Famous ComposersJuly 29 It’s Showtime!August 5 Big Band & Dance MusicAugust 12 Music of Famous Groups and PeopleAugust 19 Take TwoAugust 26 Auburn Community Band’s Greatest Hits

P A G E 2 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

PRESIDENT’S COLUMN

MEMBER SURVEY 2009 REPORTBy: Chip Morrison

The 2009 Chamber Member Survey asked mem-bers to rate the performance of the Chamber on ascale from 1 (poor) to 4 (excellent).  The survey wasconducted in May and early June and over 180

members responded (the largest response ever). The overall rating given

to the Chamber was 3.86 (exactly matching the high rating received lastyear) and all scores were above 3.6! Members were asked about specificareas of Chamber involvement. Networking opportunities (such asMembership Breakfast, Business After Hours, and the Annual Meeting),Business Advocacy (representing members at the legislative level) as wellas providing information (Chamber Newsletter, monthly Small BusinessE-News and biweekly E-Events), and the Business ResourceGuide received the highest ratings of Chamber services.

Members were also asked to respond to several open-ended questions, thefirst of which was their highest priority for Chamber activity. The fourhighest priorities for Chamber activity are: networking, advocacy for animproved business climate, providing workshops and seminars, and com-munity support and business development..

The second open-ended question that members responded to asked for sug-gestions for future seminar topics. The most popular topics listed were:

• Human Resource Issues • Marketing/Sales• Social Networking (hands on approach) • Insurance Issues• The Economy

The survey asked members to give feedback about the new Chamber divi-sion, the Young Professionals of the Lewiston-Auburn area (YPLAA).Comments were very positive and many suggestions were made to makethe organization even stronger.  One member said, “YPLAA is the reasonI have become more involved with The Chamber.” Several commentedthat YPLAA is a great way to groom future leaders for the community.Finally, a couple of responses pointed to YPLAA as a mechanism to getmore involvement with area non profit organizations.

Members were also asked what they thought of the new Chamber website.In general comments were favorable about the new site – with peopleappreciating the ability to put items on the calendar, make changes to theirown listings, and register on-line for Chamber events. Several suggestionsfor changes will make the site even stronger.

Finally, members were asked to give  comments and suggestions to theChamber.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many comments aboutthe friendly and helpful Chamber staff.  Positive comments receivedincluded:

• The level of energy, enthusiasm, and positive outlook on life is outstanding.

• This is the most vibrant networking organization that I’ve attended in this state.

My favorite comment was from a member: “When I first set up my com-pany, I visited several chambers. The Androscoggin Chamber is ‘headsand shoulders’ better than any of the others.”

Members also gave many helpful suggestions, including:• More programs on the economy which is everyone’s

primary topic of conversation• Fewer handouts and streamline breakfast meetings • More involvement of members on advocacy issues

The Board of Directors and I deeply appreciate all the members whotook the time to provide feedback. The responses will help guide theChamber through the next year!

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

JULY

WANTED: CHAMBER DIRECTORSTo be eligible for nomination, candidates must be members in

good standing and agree to accept the responsibilities ofdirectorship. Board members are elected to two-year terms

and are asked to attend monthly meetings, as well as to assistwith other Chamber activities. If you are interested or have

any questions, please contact President, Chip Morrison, 783-2249 or cmorrison@androscoggincounty.com

P A G E 3 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ADOPT-A-SPOTS IN FULL BLOOMBeautiful spots are being cultivated all around Androscoggin Countythanks to the generosity and hard work of local organizations. 2009“Spotters” include:

A Family for ME & YPLAA/DHHS, Abused Women’s Advocacy, Allergy& Asthma Associates of Central Maine, Androscoggin Home Care &Hospice, Auburn Housing Authority, Auburn Lewiston Rotary BreakfastClub, Auburn Savings Bank, Austin Associates PA, CPA’s, Blais Flowers &Garden Center, Burnies Garage, Career Center, Central Maine FederalCredit Union, City of Lewiston, Community Credit Union, Eastern Star,Emerson Toyota, Franco American War Veterans, Gammon LandscapeNursery Inc, Goodwin Well & Water Inc, Hannaford, John F MurphyHomes Inc, LL Bean Inc, Labonte’s Landscaping, Law Offices of JoeBornstein, Lewiston High School Music Association, Pathway’s Inc,Premier Landscape Center, Roak The Florist, Schooner RetirementCommunity, Sun Journal, Sweet Pea Designs, The Baha’i Community,Turner Publishing, Valley View Farm, WahlcoMetroflex, and Wal-MartDistribution Center.

CHAMBER LAUNCHES NEW NETWORKINGEVENT!Looking to make new business connections? That’s what the Chamber’snewest event, Chamber CONNECTIONS, is for!

Chamber CONNECTIONS brings business professionals together intosmall tabletop discussion groups to exchange ideas on current topics thatwill help them sustain and grow their business.

Barbara Lauze, owner of The Basket Case, said, “I really liked getting toknow the people in my small group. I think this is an excellent networkingopportunity, and I’m very grateful that the Chamber is doing it.”

At the first event on May 27, more than 30 Chamber members shared thesegreat take-away ideas:

Prospect awareness. Always be aware of opportunities to meet anotherclient. Make your clients evangelists for your company. Provide extremevalue and service to stand above your competition.Appreciation marketing. Appreciation wins over self-promotion everytime. Make sure to thank your established clients, send authentic thankyou’s. Always follow up, it takes eight touches before a potential clientdoes business with you. On-line social networking can help, don’t forget tomeet your clients face-to-face.Impacting legislative. Groom local, business-minded candidates from ayounger pool.Social networking. Know your client and where they do business and con-centrate on the social networking sites that work for them. Keep yourFacebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn entries updated. Otherwise it is like havingyour business open but not minding the shop. Schedule a set time on yourcalendar to check your sites and make updates. Time management is thekey.

We would like to thank Chamber member, Tony Crawford of Weeple.com,for all his help putting this event together. The feedback on ChamberCONNECTIONS has been so positive we plan to make this a quarterlyevent. Look for dates to be announced soon!

YOU CAN NOW TWITTER THE CHAMBERThe Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce is well known forcrowded monthly breakfasts and festive Business After Hours, and forbeing a great force in the community. The one thing that The Chamber hasnot been known for is on-line social networking. Until now!

The Chamber has joined Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to make memberinformation more accessible.

Facebook and Twitter provide a place to exchange information and interactwith peers and learn about chamber events and services.

The Chamber has a regular “friend” page on Facebook, and also a businesspage where other companies and individuals can become “fans.” Not allChamber events are convenient for everybody. Facebook provides a net-working environment for members that cannot attend meetings regularly.They can contact each other on their own time and are able to talk throughemail or posts to the website rather than in the sometimes crowded, busysettings of Chamber activities. Members can also post suggestions, com-ments, and questions for the Chamber staff with others able to “chime in”with their opinions.

LinkedIn is a business website; a place to exchange information, ideas, andopportunities and to stay in touch with other professionals and industries.“LinkedIn is another great resource for Chamber members,” states AliceMogensen, membership coordinator for the Chamber. “Through LinkedIn,members are sharing interesting articles and generating discussions on howto do business more efficiently. Plus, several members have received newleads and are doing business through the Chamber group on LinkedIn,” shesays.

Candace Sanborn of Encompass Marketing and Design recommends abook for all those looking into social networking, “Social MediaMarketing: An Hour a Day” by Dave Evens. The Chamber is excited aboutthe opportunities these networks provide for its members and hopes that itis taken advantage of by all.

Did You Know?

All employees of Chamber members can participate in any Chamber event?

Please share program information with your colleagues!

P A G E 4 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The United Way of Androscoggin County held itsAnnual Meeting at Davinci’s in Lewiston andBarbara Randall, long-time community volun-teer and retired school teacher, received the presti-

gious Geneva Kirk Award and René Dumont, CIOand V.P. of Planning, Marketing and Education at St.

Mary’s Health System, was awarded the Jim Phillip’s Award.Elected to the United Way Board were Guillermo Locht of GE, Jim

Thornton of the Sun Journal, and Marc Paquette of Anthoine Associates.

Community Credit Union is pleased to announce that Jessica Burgess andBria Duval have received their certifications as a Teller Specialists. Judy

Hagen-Ryan is their new Collection Officer. 

Northeast Bank Insurance Group has acquired Berwick-based GoodrichInsurance Associates, an agency started by the Goodrich family more than 60years ago.

St. Mary’s d’Youville Pavilion, a 210-bed, long-term care facility inLewiston, Maine, has earned the Maine Health Care Association (MHCA)Quality Improvement Award.

Bill Mitchell, CEO of GHM Insurance Agency, announced that GHM hasreceived the 2009 Governor’s Award for Business Excellence, which recog-nizes the agency’s excellence in the areas of Commitment to Community,Employees and Customer Service Excellence.

Tim Frank, senior cleaning tech at ServiceMaster of Lewiston Auburn,received the “Service Partner of the Year” award for 2008. He was chosenfrom among a field with thousands of possible reciepents.

Gretchen L. Jones, partner at Skelton Taintor & Abbott, was a presenter atthe Maine Association of Community Banks 33rd Expo, held in Portland onApril 14, 2009.

Maine Entertainment just completed a state-of-the-art Home TheaterDesign Center, as well as doing a complete makeover of their web site. M/Eprovides residential, professional and commercial audio and video systemdesign, products, controlled lighting and easy-to-use control systems. Pleasecheck www.maineentertainment.com and call 866-685-9494 to schedule ashowroom visit.

John Hutchins IV of Leavitt and Parris proudly announced that their newwebsite is online to provide a wealth of information to help you with yournext awning purchase or event rental.

Absolute Marketing & Design of Lewiston has affiliated with ProformaAlbrecht.  Absolute now has access to the largest inventory base of promo-tional products in the industry which allows them to complete their offeringas full-service marketing solutions provider.  Check out their website,www.absoluteMAD.com

Linda Beaulieu at Coldwell Banker Millett Realty wants to remind “firsttime homebuyers” (a buyer that has not owned a home for 3 years), that thenew economic recovery plan offers an $8,000 tax credit for a home purchasedthis year.

Volunteers of America NNE again ran Camp POSTCARD from June 12ththrough June 19th, a special experience for more than 150 youth from aroundthe state of Maine

Troy Gagnon has joined Pinnacle Development Group as Chief OperatingOfficer.  Pinnacle provides custom programming, programming support, andwith the addition of Troy, years of expertise in agile web development with adynamic web Content Management System (CMS).

At a recent meeting held in Portland, Marcel B. Poulin of Millett Realty wasranked no. 10 in listings sold for Coldwell Banker in the state of Maine.

Androscoggin Head Start and Child Care was the fortunate beneficiary of“Red Day”, a nationwide day of volunteerism by Keller Williams Realty

Mid-Maine to “Renew – Energize – Donate”.

John Snyder of ReGroup! Business Solutions has 18 years experience withelectromagnetic compatibility standards (EMC: EMI/RFI). He consults withmanufacturers that are required to  comply with federal, U.S.  military orEuropean standards.

Back by popular demand, “Women on the Move” a Mastermind group held atNEXT Level Business Coaching in Auburn, facilitated by Kurk Lalemand.

They are looking for  ten dynamic women for the group.  Contact Freddie

Collins at 207-376-3239.

Heutz Oil Company and Heutz Premium Pellet Systems of Lewistonannounce the addition of Milt Simon as Sales & Marketing Manager for bothcompanies.  Heutz now offers home bulk pellet delivery of premium pellets.For more information give Milt a call at 782-3171.

Dave Griffiths of Dave Griffiths Communications recently ran a “Gettingto the Point” seminar for the Maine Assn. of Nonprofits in Portland. He dis-cussed effective business writing and PowerPoint-free presentation skills.

The Lewiston MAINEiacs Hockey Club is pleased to announce the additionof Tim Schurman to the scouting staff.  Schurman will take on the role ofAdvance Scout.

National law publishers, M. Lee Smith Publishers, recently selected Peter

Lowe and Dan Stockford of the law firm Brann & Isaacson as editors ofthe Maine Employment Law Letter, a monthly newsletter focusing onemployment law issues for HR professionals and managers of Maine busi-nesses and organizations. 

Mainebiz hosted its annual dinner for the Next List Alumni at theHarraseeket Inn in Freeport to establish a scholarship fund and seek nomi-nees for the 2009 Next List.

More than 290 KeyBank employees in Maine participated in the company’s19th annual day of volunteer community service on May 5th. KeyBank staffspent the afternoon volunteering for a wide array of community service pro-jects in neighborhoods across the state as part of a national day of civil ser-vice.

Gritty McDuff’s -  voted  earlier this month “Portland’s Best Bar” by  theMaine Sunday Telegram and “Best Brew Pub” by The Phoenix - just earneda clip in Every Day with Rachael Ray.

Janine Audet, LMT of Optimal Touch, massage therapy has a new locationat 120 Center Street Plaza, Ste 203, Auburn.  She will be sharing space withOrthopedic & Spine Physical Therapy.  Janine can be reached at 212-7251 oroptimaltouch@gmail.com.

Austin Associates, PA, CPAs is pleased to announce the addition of Steve

Bosinger as the firm’s Chief Operations Officer.

Rick Vail and Mechanics Savings Bank announced that the new Mechanics

Private Bank has opened their new office suite located at the bank’s mainoffice at 100 Minot Avenue in Auburn. 

Thomas College is holding its 6th Annual Lunder Golf Tournament at NatanisGolf Course on Friday, August 28, 2009. All proceeds go to a scholarship fundto support the education of Maine students at Thomas. For more information,please contact Cathy Dumont at 207.859.1167 or e-maildumontc@thomas.edu.

Sam Ladd, Chairman, President & CEO of Maine Bank & Trust, was hon-ored by Junior Achievement of Maine as a 2009 “Laureate” at the organi-zation’s “Maine Business Hall of Fame” and annual dinner on May 12th at thePortland Marriott.

WHAT’S UP…?

Fox Ridge Golf Club gives 20% off posted greens fee forMilitary and First Response personnel with IDs. TheirBrew and BBQ 9 hole Scramble Tournament will be July17th at 5:30 pm.  Call the Pro Shop for details, 777-GOLF.

Goodman Wiper & Paper has hand sanitizers and soaps inevery configuration from wall mount 1-litre refills to 2-ozgo anywhere bottles. Gojo, Purell, Kimberly Clark andInopak’s generic refills are all available. Call Ken

Goodman for details at 784-5779.

Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice-HospiceHouse’s  first Butterfly Release Celebration will beSaturday July 25 at 3pm (rain date Sunday July 26th).  It isa unique opportunity to remember and honor loved ones bydedicating a butterfly.  Guests will share memories, enjoymusic and light refreshments.  The highlight of the celebra-tion will be the mass release of live butterflies. For moreinformation call 777-7740.

The Manufacturers Association of Maine has hired RonFish as the new Director of the Maine Aerospace Alliance(MEAA) project.

The Maine Music Society presents its 15th annual Gardenand Home Tour on Saturday July 11 from 10 am to 4pm, rain or shine.  The self guided tour consists of six gar-dens and two home interiors. Tickets may be purchased inadvance for $12 at Shaws and Hannafords in Lewiston andAuburn, at the Ivy Cottage, Mr. Paperback, andProvencher’s Landscape and Nursery.  On the day of thetour, the tickets will be $ 14 and will be available atProvencher’s Landscape and in the gardens.

Salvatore Bonetti, CRPS, Financial Advisor at Morgan

Stanley, has been appointed to the Advisory Board ofOperation HomeFront.  They provide emergency funds andsupport to active military and their families.  The organiza-tion is funded 100% by donations and in 2007 used 99% ofits funds to help military people. 

Odd Fellows’ and Rebekahs’ Home of Maine is pleasedto announce its 4th annual Golf Tournament on Monday July27 at Brunswick Golf Club. Proceeds go to support OddFellows’ and Rebekahs’ Home of Maine, a non-profit Long-term-care Home in Auburn. The cost is $95.00/person.Good food and lots of prizes included. Hurry, there are stillplayer slots available!

Top Dog Professional Grooming and Dog Wash is celebrating its One Year anniversary! Top Dog will beoffering discounts and prizes all summer. Chamber mem-bers, who already receive special discount pricing, can stopby to win free professional grooming for their dog or a freedog wash. Top Dog is located at 120 Center Street Plaza,Auburn, 782-1101.

Preti Flaherty attorney Tim Bryant has been recognizednationally for his expertise and skill in the area of franchiselaw by Franchise Times magazine. Bryant, a partner, is oneof 125 attorneys nationwide chosen for inclusion on the2009 list of “Legal Eagles” by the Minneapolis-basednational trade publication.

Hope Haven Gospel Mission will hold its annual 4th ofJuly BBQ from 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM. There will be greatfood, great fellowship and a great time to celebrate ourNation’s Independence with the poor and needy.

Betsy Sawyer-Manter has joined SeniorsPlus ofLewiston/Auburn as Executive Director, filling the positionheld by Pam Allen, who retired June 30. 

Creative Office Pavilion, an office furniture dealer, hasbeen helping to create great spaces to work, learn and healsince 1986. Their full service capabilities include sales,design, project management, installation and long- termstorage. Give Sophia Louis a call at 775-7100 for details.

The American Heart Association’s Heart Walk is set forSunday, September 27th at Lewiston High School.   TheExecutive Planning Committee, led by Oxford Network’s

Matt Jancovic, is looking for event volunteers and spon-sors.  Please contact Susan Crandall at 449-3127 or visitwww.centralmaineheartwalk.org.

Andover College summer term classes begin on July 20th.Degree programs in the Business, Healthcare, Education,and Legal fields are available during day and evening peri-ods. Call Matthew Cote at (207) 513-3660 to learn howthey can help your business.

In today’s challenging times, a vacation is still within reachat Sagadahoc Bay Campground on GeorgetownIsland and you don’t have to own a tent or motor home toenjoy this ocean get-a-way.   Rent a cabin with ocean accessat 371-2014.

Roy’s Driving Academy will be offering double sessionsfor Driver Education on  July 13th and August 3rd. Nightsessions will be from 5:30 to 8:30PM and the day sessionswill be from 2 to 5PM. Come experience their stadium seat-ing in car bucket seats, large screen TV, and drunk gogglesimulation on a golf cart.

Wachovia Securities is now Wells Fargo Advisors, whichhas been recently named the 14th most admired company inthe world by Fortune Magazine.  Contact Adam Dunbar tolearn more about how the new company can help you planfor retirement at 774-5626 or adam.dunbar@wellsfargoad-visors.com

Are you moving or relocating? Let Bisson’s experiencedand professional staff help! Call Bisson Moving and

Storage at 1-800-370-4011 for an estimate or for moreinformation. “Service you can Trust from People whoCare.”

Community Concepts is very proud to be recognized bythe Lewiston Historic Preservation Review Board for thebeautiful 30-unit Bates Street Senior Housing project onKennedy Park.

Linda Snyder of ReGroup Business Services and Van

Perry of Mechanics Savings Bank were appointed byGovernor Baldacci to the Maine Regulatory FairnessBoard.

Central Maine Federal Credit Union recently made aspecial donation of $1,000 to the Greater Androscoggin

Humane Society for making a difference in our animals’lives and helping us keep our community humane.

Mount Apatite Farm is open to the public on Wednesday,Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Come pick your own flowers ororganic vegetables & herbs, or just take a stroll through thebeautiful gardens. Call Cookin Carol for more info: 795-6376 or 650-1573

P A G E 5 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

2008-09BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Peter Murphy, ChairNeokraft Sign Co

Art Boulay, Chair ElectStrategic Talent Management

Robin Robbins, TreasurerAndroscoggin Bank

Trisha Fletcher, Past ChairTeam Fletcher, Coldwell Banker Millett Realty

Jan BarrettWare Street Inn Bed & Breakfast

JoAnne CampbellMechanics Savings Bank

Doug DiVelloCentral Maine Healthcare Corp

Susan DonovanDonovan's Auto Sales

Adam DunbarWells Fargo Advisors

Patti GagnePatti Gagne Agency, Allstate Insurance

Clif GreimHarriman and Associates

Kevin HealeySt. Mary’s Health System

Elaine HemenwayPayroll Management Inc

Jennifer HoganCommunity Credit Union

Gretchen JonesSkelton Taintor & Abbott PA

Jonathan LaBonte, YPLAA ChairAndroscoggin Land Trust

Mary LaFontaineCareer Center

Kurk LalemandNext Level Business Coaching

Marc LamareElmet Technologies

Darlene Cadorette LevesqueWhite Rock Distilleries

Rick MalinowskiProcter & Gamble

Scott McKenneyHilton Garden Inn

Iman PoeraatmadjaBurgess Computer

David ScobeyBates College

Susan StaceyCentral Maine Community College

Laurie St PierrePercy's Burrow

Peter SteeleTwin City Times

Peter TraillNason Mechanical Systems Inc.

Jennifer WilleyCanteen Services

Thomas WilsonGritty McDuff’s

Roy's All Steak Hamburgers and Golf Center

has two weekly events. Cruise Night every Tuesday andBike Night every Thursday. Both events run from 5pm to

9pm and feature DJ music, 50/50 raffle and prize give-aways. Come and show off your ride, or come to check

out the many Cruise cars and motorcycles on display.

P A G E 6 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CHAMBER AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPSThis season 16 graduating seniors received scholarships from TheChamber. Three adults, seeking to continue their education, receivedscholarships as well.

2009 Chamber scholars are: Edward High School: Abigail Downs (Nursing), Erin Richmond(Pharmacy), Joshua Clark (Physical Therapy), Derek Swan (Nursing) Lewiston High School: Kathryn DeAngelis (Bio Chemistry), OliviaFournier (Finance/Marketing), Chelsea Hebert, Nicole Kearns (ScienceComputer Forensics) Leavitt High School: Nicklas Hoover (Business), Chantel St. Laurent (Biology Pre-Med) Lisbon High School: Tyler Campbell (Culinary Arts), Morgan Hatherley(Nursing) Oak Hill High School: Samantha Wark (Nursing) Poland High School: Shelby Carlson (Pre-Med) St Dominic Regional High School: Michael Girouard (Biology & Bio-Chemistry), Lori Robinson (Criminology)

2009 Adult Scholarship Recipients: Michelle Baker of HE CallahanMary Murphy of YMCAJude Trafford of Support Solutions

NOT YOUR NORMAL FORMAL BIG SUCCESSWith the sponsorship of Camden National Bank, the Chamber night out“It’s a Carnival” was a great success, netting The Chamber over $30,000 tosupport regular programs and services for members. 170 tickets were soldand The Chamber is deeply indebted to the more than 150 members whodonated items for the auction. A special thanks to the organizations thatpurchased tables for the night: Camden National Bank, The CoteCorporation, Environmental Projects, Isaacson & Raymond, Procter andGamble, Skelton Taintor & Abbott, and Safe Handling.

The pictures below give some indication of the enjoyment members had onthat special evening.

Dick GleasonPresident & General Manager

Tel: (207) 784-5868 Cell: (207) 754-3777E-Mail: DickGleason@Gmail.comOffice: 555 Center Street, Auburn, ME 04210G

GLEASONMEDIASERVICES

www.GleasonMedia.com

Radio Stations

WOXO 92.7 & 100.7 • WEZR 1240 • WTME 780 & 1450

Internet ServicesEmail Marketing • Web Site Development

A number of Chamber Scholarship winners attended the Trade ShowBreakfast. Pictured with the winners are representatives of two of themajor sponsors of the Scholarship Scramble, Darcie Beaudin of SkeltonTaintor and Abbott (left end of second row) and Rick Vail of MechanicsSavings Bank (back row in center)

Greg Hird and son, Greg II, are joined by their entire staff at the ribbon cut-ting for the opening of their restaurant, “The Falls,” located at 2 Great FallsPlaza. Mayor John Jenkins and Chamber President, Chip Morrison wereon hand to celebrate.

P A G E 7 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

MEMBER IN FOCUS: Ann’s Flower Shop

By Toni Seger, ProseWorks ™

Like most people, I love flowers. Even television’s crusty essayist AndyRooney has pledged not to say anything nasty about flowers and it’s cer-tainly hard to imagine life without them. So, I especially enjoyed visitingAnn’s Flowers at the Taylor Brook Mall during Mother’s Day week in May.The air was crisp and filled with the perfume of roses and carnations andorchids and ferns and lots of busy people creating marvelous colorfularrangements in different shaped vases or snipping tiny roses for use on awrist corsage.

With all of its apparent beauty, however, being a florist is serious businesswith lots of potential pitfalls. Every day you work with a delicate and per-ishable product. That makes the McKeone family’s longevity, creating andselling floral arrangements, something tonote. I sat down to talk about the manychanges in the florist business over the yearswith Cheryl McKeone. Cheryl’s father,Norman, and grandmother Yvette McKeonepurchased the already established businessfrom Ann and Wally Kelly in 1959. Theydecided to keep the name, but almost every-thing else about the business has changed.

The McKeone family which also includesCheryl’s sisters; Kathy Lare and DarleneMelanson who are schooled flowerarrangers, grew up with the flower business.Cheryl’s mother, Adrienne, who kept thebooks in years past, still comes in to help outin the office. All are now celebrating their50th Anniversary as a family enterprisethat’s lasted three generations. Over theyears, the business evolved from somethingthat was purely local to one that is compelled to be international. In 1959,local greenhouses provided a familiar range of flowers for local events thatranged from the happiest to the saddest. Today, with the Internet displayingflowers from all over the world, a neighborhood florist must satisfy a clien-tele that expects to purchase anything it can view at a click.

Ann’s Flowers gets daily deliveries of exotic and exquisitely colorful flow-ers shipped from warm weather countries like Columbia and Ecuador.Stepping inside a wholesale delivery truck is a feast for a flower lover’seyes and nose with its wide array of colors and wonderful fumes whichemanate from countless blooms. Ann’s Flowers has its own truck for dailydeliveries of custom bouquets which also include gift baskets, stuffed ani-mals and balloons. They not only deliver around L/A, but many other townsas well like Mechanic Falls, Minot, Poland, Poland Spring, Hebron, Turner,Greene and Buckfield. And, as a member of Teleflora wire service, Ann’sFlowers can ship your special floral gift, worldwide.

Like restaurants, the florist’s most essential raw material is extremely per-ishable. Cut flowers must be shipped and stored in refrigerated units toextend their lives. Then, professionally trained flower arrangers workingwith numerous sizes, shapes and a broad color palette begin to snip and

design and produce harmonious and eye catching decorations for display inpots and vases of all shapes and styles. Cheryl tells me her walk-ins will befilled with these beautiful arrangements by the end of the work day in orderto fulfill Mother’s Day orders or to exhibit in their shop for walk-ins. Aquick glance around takes in soft pastels, rich magentas, deep blues andbright bouquets of sunshine yellows and oranges. Cheryl tells me theSociety of American Florists conducts studies about the effect of color ona person’s mood and these studies help a florist make color choices whenproducing bouquets intended to be exciting, sensuous, romantic or tranquil.Mood is, of course, a very important element in this ethereal business.Flowers are both an important part of helping us celebrate and for helpingus mourn. They can brighten our day if we’re low and, if we’re sick, a mag-nificent bouquet can really brighten our lives.

Cheryl and I sat down in the wedding consulting room where arrangementsof silk flowers serve as examples of sizes and shapes for prospective bridal

parties. Books and magazines depict a fullspectrum of hybrid blooms with endlessways to display and wear flowers whetherwoven together to be draped across some-one’s shoulder or threaded through theirhair or to cover their wrist. (Could anydate fail to sniff your wrist when it’ssmothered in a cluster of tiny pink roses?)Today’s Prom girl is also looking for a bitof ‘bling’ as well. Wrist corsages comewith glittery bracelets intended to be wornlong after the dance.

Today’s Big Box stores are able to pur-chase flowers in huge quantities whichmeans a local florist like Ann’s Flowersmust offer exemplary personal service.Cheryl points out Internet ads for seeming-ly inexpensive bouquets that also includeadditional fees for delivery and handling

and actually arrive unarranged in a box that can sit on your porch steps untilits contents wilt. “We’ll arrange delivery of your custom designed bouquetat a time that works for you. The Internet can’t provide that.” In addition toall the hard work it requires, the flower business can also become a highwire act like two years ago when a major storm ruined Valentine’s Day.

Are you thinking about a special person or event you want to rememberwith flowers? Visit www.annsflowers.com and explore a wide variety ofsuggestions for anniversaries, birthdays, corporate gifts or ‘Just Because’.The web site also gives valuable tips about caring for flowers and there’s adictionary picturing flowers with their proper names and the emotionthey’re associated with like Asters with patience and Daffodils with chival-ry.

Speaking of anniversaries, Ann’s Flowers is celebrating their 50thAnniversary with 50 percent off specials that change week to week. Stop inat their shop at 14 Millet Drive in Auburn to find out what the latest specialis. Open 8 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday or until noon on Saturday,flowers are a fail-safe way to make someone feel very special. Call toschedule your personal wedding consultation at 783-2316 or toll free at 1-800-811-2794.

P A G E 8 N E W S L E T T E R OF THE ANDROSCOGGIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Prst Std

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

PERMIT #27

LEWISTON, ME

04240

P.O. BOX 59LEWISTON, ME 04243-0059

DIVERSE CHAMBER TRAINING PROGRAM INMONTHS AHEADIt used to be that the summer would be a slow time for Chamber programs– but no longer. Four programs are planned for July & August.

July 15 Seminar on “Time Management for Women,” co-host-ed by the Maine Women’s Network and led by LeeSzelog

July 29 Seminar on “Managing Risks and Making $$$ in aChallenging Economy” presented by a team fromBernstein Shur.

August 5 Brown Bag on “Heart Health” with Dr. Brooke Ritvo

August 18 Seminar on “Networking” featuring a panel ofChamber members

MAJOR PROGRAMS PLANNED FOR THE FALLOn September 30th an “Entrepreneurs Summit” will be held at the HiltonGarden Inn. The Chamber is cosponsoring this program with MaineBiz,Albin, Randall and Bennett and Preti Flaherty. The half day conference,formerly held in Portland, will feature two parallel tracks, one for experi-enced businesses and one for start-ups.

On October 22nd, the Cool Chamber Committee, led by Laurie St. Pierre ofPercy’s Burrow, will produce the second annual Energy Conference for

Local Businesses aimed at helping participants identify ways they canreduce costs by saving energy. Former Governor Angus King will keynotethe conference that also will feature three panels of local businesses talkingabout their energy saving measures, funding energy renovations, and alter-native energy sources. The conference will then have a networking lun-cheon with attendees working on a discussion topic of their own choosing.Finally the conference will conclude with an optional session on “SavingEnergy at Home.” The conference will be held at the new Bates CollegeDining Commons. For more information contact Chip at The Chamber.