October 23, 2014 - Maine State Chamber of Commerce
Transcription
October 23, 2014 - Maine State Chamber of Commerce
October 23, 2014 Annual Dinner, Gubernatorial Forum and Awards Ceremony a huge success On Wednesday, October 15 the Maine State Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2014 Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony, and its fifth gubernatorial forum, at the Augusta Civic Center. Nearly 600 people attended the evening’s events. Photos from the event appear on pages 11-17 and online at http://www.mainechamber.org/photoalbum.php?ID=12. The evening began with the “Taste of Maine” reception (see page 12) featuring culinary specialties from several Maine vendors including Backyard Farms, Bixby & Co., La Bella Vita at the Samoset Resort, Ducktrap River of Maine, Penobscot McCrum, and State of Maine Cheese Co. Maine micro-brews were provided by Shipyard Brewing Co., Belfast Bay Brewing Co. and Baxter Brewing. Wine and vodka were provided by Cellardoor Winery, Twenty 2 Vodka, and Cold River Vodka. Maine State Chamber president Dana Connors welcomed the attendees, including a number of college students from Kaplan University, Thomas College, the University of Maine at Orono, the University of Southern Maine and the Continued on Page 11... Inside Impact... A message from the president... Annual Dinner . . . . . . p. 1, 11-17 Best Places to Work . . . . . . p. 18 Bond Issue Information . . p. 3-7 Business Day 2015 . . . . . . . . p. 8 Business Excellence . . . . . p. 19 “Take time to vote, encourage employees to vote as well…” Disability Employment Awareness . . p. 20 E2 Tech Council . . . . . . . . . p. 22 by Dana Connors Education Report . . . . . . . . . p. 9 Financial Fraud . . . . . . . . . . . p. 6 Health Care Forum . . . . p. 18, 24 IT Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p. 8 Just Good News . . . . . . . . . p. 21 USPS Ownership Statement p. 23 Vol. 48, No. 18 Impact (207) 623-4568 Impact (ISSN 1055-3029) is published weekly January through June and monthly July through December by the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, 125 Community Dr., Suite 101, Augusta, Maine 04330-8010. Periodicals postage paid at Augusta, Maine, and additional mailing offices. Maine State Chamber member companies are assessed $75.00 yearly for each newsletter subscription (subscribers or out-of-dues assessement). POSTMASTER: Please send any address changes to Impact, 125 Community Dr., Suite 101, Augusta, Maine 04330-8010. Chairman of the Board of Directors: Melinda Poore President: Dana F. Connors Information in this newsletter is intended to provide guidance, not legal advice. Since exact language and definitions of key terms are critical to understanding the requirements of legislation, rules or laws, we encourage you to read each carefully. Articles and information contained in this newsletter may be reprinted with attribution given to: Maine State Chamber of Commerce. Please address comments to Melanie Baillargeon, director of communications. Information about the Maine State Chamber of Commerce may also be viewed on the Internet at: www.mainechamber.org. Our email address is news@mainechamber.org. About the Maine State Chamber of Commerce: Since 1889, the Maine State Chamber has been fighting to lower your cost of doing business. Through our Grassroots Action Network and OneVoice program, we work with a network of approximately 5,000 companies statewide who see the value in such a service and provide the financial support that keeps our access, advocacy, and assistance efforts going strong. As Maine's Chamber, we make sure that the business environment of the state continues to thrive. The Maine State Chamber of Commerce advocates on behalf of their interests before the legislature and regulatory agencies and through conferences, seminars, and affiliated programs. 2 III Impact III 10/23/2014 Another election day is just days away! I would like to remind you to take time to vote, and to encourage your employees to cast their ballots as well. On November 4, Mainer’s will be asked to consider the bond package. One of the true bright spots of the second session of the 126th Legislature was the bipartisan nature in which it worked and ultimately approved a six-part bond package totaling $50 million to appear on the November 2014 ballot. I’d like to take this last opportunity to provide you with information about the six bond issue questions – please take the time to read about each one of them in detail on pages 3 through 7. This bond package once again presents Mainers with opportunities for economic investments. Investing in our economy is crucial, and as a state, we have always taken a responsible and deliberative approach to bonding. This year is no different. The six part bond package includes: Ÿ A $12 million bond for small-business financial aid through the Finance Authority of Maine to fund two established programs that provide start-up and expansion capital to small businesses (see page 4); Ÿ A $10 million bond to fund a competitive grant program for the development of a biometric research facility (see page 5); Ÿ A $10 million bond to fund various water initiatives, including the construction of culverts to aid fish passage, clean-water systems and conservation work (see page 7); Ÿ An $8 million bond to fund efforts by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension to assist farmers and forestry (see page 3); Ÿ A $7 million bond to fund competitive grants to boost the state’s marine economy, including lobster and seafood processing (see page 7); and, Ÿ A $3 million bond to fund biotechnology workforce training and drug research and development (see page 6). As you can see, this package looks at investments into Maine’s infrastructure through our water treatment plants, investment into our economy through capital to small businesses start ups, direct impact to the support of Jackson Lab’s research facility, and investment into our natural resources-based economy. From the Maine State Chamber’s perspective, the $50 million represents a responsible investment, and we look forward to the conversation with the citizens of Maine to explain how these investments will positively impact the state’s economy. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Question 2 will improve Maine’s natural resource and agricultural industries Question 2: Do you favor an $8,000,000 bond issue to support Maine agriculture, facilitate economic growth in natural resources-based industries and monitor human health threats related to ticks, mosquitoes and bedbugs through the creation of an animal and plant disease and insect control laboratory administered by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service? On Tuesday, November 4, Mainers will have a great opportunity to improve our state’s natural resource and agricultural industries. Question 2 will ask: “Do you favor an $8,000,000 bond issue to support Maine agriculture, facilitate economic growth in natural resources-based industries and monitor human health threats related to ticks, mosquitoes and bedbugs through the creation of an animal and plant disease and insect control laboratory administered by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service?” I’m voting “Yes” and I wanted to take a moment to tell you why. The proposed lab is an important investment in Maine’s economy, food safety and public health. The new lab will combine animal, plant, and insect research that will allow University faculty and staff to better protect our state’s agricultural economy and human health. We hope our neighbors throughout Maine will join our diverse and growing coalition in voting “Yes” on Question 2: the Agricultural Council of Maine; the Maine Dairy Industry Association; the Maine Farm Bureau Association; the Maine Medical Association; the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association; the Sportsmen’s Alliance of Maine; the Maine State Chamber of Commerce; the Maine Veterinary Health Association; and, the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine. Maine has the largest and most diverse agricultural economy in New England, and our food-based economy is enjoying rapid growth. The University of Maine Cooperative Extension has been part of that growth, providing critical information to businesses, farms, and communities for 100 years. However, current facilities are antiquated and inadequate to keep up with the demand for modern testing to protect the health of livestock, crops and monitor threats to humans. The Extension consistently creates economic value for the Maine economy. For example, the Extension’s efforts save the Maine potato industry nearly $12 million annually, while its positive impact on the dairy, sheep and poultry industries is $18 million. The proposed lab would expand on these savings through enhanced pest monitoring, management of animal health issues and plant-disease forecasting, which Maine’s farmers have come to rely on. A new lab will also benefit our public health. As we know, Maine’s tick population continues to increase and expand its range. The result is an increase in the incidence of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. The mosquito-borne West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) are also routinely showing up in Maine. The Extension operates the only tick identification program in the state, but the current lab is dated and doesn’t have the 21st century resources needed to test ticks for diseases. The new lab will allow the Extension to offer in-state disease testing of ticks and enable a comprehensive mosquito monitoring and disease awareness program. Protecting the health of Maine’s wildlife, farms and the health and safety of our families and communities is an important mission of the Extension. To ensure Maine’s ability to compete in a constantly changing market and to safeguard public health, Question 2 is a critical investment for Maine. Please join me in voting ‘Yes’ on November 4. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org 10/23/2014 III Impact III 3 A “Yes” vote on Question 3 supports small business growth, job creation across Maine Ballot question authorizes bond to fund Regional Economic Development Revolving Loan and Commercial Loan Insurance Programs Question 3: Do you favor a bond issue to provide $4,000,000 in funds to insure portions of loans to small businesses to spur investment and innovation and to provide $8,000,000 in funds to make flexible loans to small businesses to create jobs, revitalize downtowns, and strengthen the rural economy? From Maine’s renewed downtowns to its working waterfronts to its rural commercial centers, business leaders across the state who champion small business growth and job creation are lending their support to ballot Question 3. Voting “Yes” on Question 3 will authorize a bond that will continue funding two existing and successful state programs: providing $8 million to the Regional Economic Development Revolving Loan Program (REDRLP) and $4 million to the companion Commercial Loan Insurance (CLI) program. Since REDRLP was created by the Legislature in 1993, 772 revolving loans of $16.2 million have been disbursed, helping to create and retain about 10,500 jobs in total. They have provided Maine’s small business owners access to flexible capital, which is helping to spur the kind of investment and innovation that is revitalizing downtowns and strengthening the rural economy. Small and micro businesses—from Tilton’s Market in Buckfield to Seafax in Cumberland to Molnlycke in Wiscasset to Three Rivers Whitewater in The Forks— have benefitted from the financing available through REDRLP and CLI. In 2001 Seafax, the leading provider of business information for the food industry in North America, received a REDRLP loan through CEI so that owners could purchase a business in turmoil, turn it around, and keep 55 jobs in Maine. Since then, the company has tripled in revenue, grown its staff to 85, and paid off its loan in full. The program has also been instrumental in resurrecting small community centers like Tilton’s Market in Buckfield which closed after 75 years in business. Through a loan made by Community Concepts, a new owner was able to purchase and remodel the store, re-opening what residents called the “heart” of the town. Three Rivers Whitewater benefitted 4 III Impact III 10/23/2014 By Carla Dickstein for Mainers for Small Business from the CLI program, which provided insurance on the business’ two mortgages, enabling them to get the loan they needed to grow during the last 17 years. Question 3 has support from the following businesses leaders and economic development agencies across the state, each of which has had first-hand experience with the benefits that come from the programs funded in Question 3. They are Aroostook Partnership for Progress; CEI; City of Presque Isle; Community Concepts Inc.; Eastern Maine Development Corporation; Economic Development Corporation; Envision Maine; Gov. John Baldacci; GrowSmart Maine; Jeanne Hulit; Kennebec Valley Council of Governments; Maine Bankers Association; Maine Chamber of Commerce; Maine Community Action Association; Maine Innkeepers Association; Maine Mayors Coalition; Maine Preservation; Maine Real Estate Development Association (MEREDA); Maine Tourism Association; MaineStream Finance; Midcoast Council of Governments; Mobilize Maine; Northern Forest Center; Northern Maine Development Commission; Town of Lubec; Washington Hancock Community Agency; and, Yellow Light Breen, Bangor Savings Bank. To learn more about how voting Yes on Question 3 will help create new jobs in your community and grow small business like us on Facebook. Business success is measured in degrees. If you want to succeed in business, you want a master’s degree that’s in demand – and we have them, from data analytics and IT to marketing and project management. Whether you choose online or at one of our centers, you’ll find them affordably priced and flexible. But the best part? You’ll have the constant support of the finest team of admission counselors and academic and career advisors anywhere. Or to put it another way: You won’t find a university more committed to your success. 866.860.0449 | snhu.edu/mainechamber Brunswick | Lewiston-Auburn See Yourself Succeed For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Maine voters have a unique opportunity this fall to fight cancer and create high-paying jobs in Maine Question 4: Do you favor a $10,000,000 bond issue, to be awarded through a competitive process and to be matched by $11,000,000 in private and other funds, to build a research center and to discover genetic solutions for cancer and the diseases of aging, to promote job growth and private sector investment in this State, to attract and retain young professionals and make the State a global leader in genomic medicine? Question 4 on the November 4 ballot that would house state-of-the-art imaging, will ask voters whether the state should neurocognitive, metabolomics and physi- issue $10 million in bonds to build a ologic sensing technologies. The new research center where Maine scientists center will combine technicians, technol- would research new solutions to cancer ogy and operational capacity in a way that and other deadly diseases. has not previously been possible in The Jackson Laboratory wants to use Maine. The center’s technical expertise, those funds to build a sophisticated cutting-edge equipment and scale of oper- Center for Biometric Analysis on its cam- ation will ensure that even the most sub- pus in Bar Harbor. Researchers at the tle signs, or biomarkers, of disease could center would use JAX mice to detect and be detected and measured. measure the precise biological changes The center will bring several scientif- that accompany disease and that predict ic and economic benefits to Maine. It will response to medical interventions. make the state a global resource for pre- This facility is critical to the Lab’s cision medicine, advance personalized future success; it will help their efforts to treatments for disease, build on previous discover the genetic origins of cancer and state investments, solidify JAX’s Maine other deadly diseases, leading to better pre- presence, create construction jobs for vention, diagnosis and treatment. In addi- Maine residents, and bring additional tion, it will create new, high-paying jobs, grant money and revenues into the state. including positions for young professionals The Laboratory’s total impact on the who otherwise might leave the state. If the bond issue passes, the $10 mil- Maine economy in 2013 was $380 million, and they expect it to grow to $500 lion will be awarded through a competitive million by 2020. The Center for application process. The Laboratory is Biometric Analysis will contribute signif- considered a top contender for the award icantly toward that growth. because it has the required scientific and You can support the bond referen- technical expertise, and is prepared to dum by voting “yes” on Question 4 and invest an additional $11 million, building encouraging your friends and family to and equipping the new research center. vote. The Laboratory envisions building a Maine is Open for Business! Reach out to DECD’s Governor’s Account Executives. We’re here to help your business succeed. We’ll work with you to identify your goals, overcome challenges, and bring the right people and resources to the table. Together . . . We’ll make it happen! CALL TODAY 1-800-872-3838 to connect with a member of our team! www.maine.gov/decd We care deeply about where we live and work ............................................................... ............................................................... ............................................................... So we are committed to investing in public education, health & wellness, and arts & culture throughout Maine. And as a member of the Chamber of Commerce, we are proud to support the 2014 Annual Meeting & Gubernatorial Debate. For more information visit the website http://VoteYes4ME.org. four-story, 16,000-square-foot facility For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org © 2014 Unum Group. All rights reserved. Unum is a registered trademark and marketing brand of Unum Group and its insuring subsidiaries. NS14-370 10/23/2014 III Impact III 5 Question 5 aims to build Maine’s workforce, economy Question 5: Do you favor a $3,000,000 bond issue, to be awarded through a competitive process and to be matched by $5,700,000 in private and public funds, to modernize and expand infrastructure in a biological laboratory specializing in tissue repair and regeneration located in the State in order to increase biotechnology workforce training, retain and recruit to the State multiple biomedical research and development groups and create a drug discovery and development facility that will improve human health and stimulate biotechnology job growth and economic activity? Maine’s traditional economy is declining rapidly. Three of our paper mills have closed in 2014 alone. Our workforce is aging rapidly and our children are leaving. One out of five Mainers between the ages of 18 and 34 has moved away in the past 20 years to pursue careers not available to them here. Maine’s economy must be modernized. Question 5 will help Maine build a 21st century science- and technology-based economy. The $3 million bond will be awarded competitively and will be matched by $5.7 million in private and federal funds. If passed, Question 5 will allow institutions like the MDI Biological Laboratory to expand workforce training, biomedical R&D and drug discovery programs. Located in Bar Harbor, the MDI Biological Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research and education institution. During the last 12 years, we have provided more than 2,000 students from across Maine with the problem-solving and critical-thinking skills they need to compete for 21st century science- and technology-based jobs. We lead a unique partnership of 13 Maine research and education institutions that spans the state from Fort Kent to South Portland. This partnership has greatly expanded the state’s biomedical R&D capacity and has brought more than $100 million in federal funding to Maine. Biomedical R&D at the MDI Biological Laboratory focuses on regenerative medicine, one of the foundations 6 III Impact III 10/23/2014 National groups look to increase awareness of financial fraud In an effort to increase awareness around the ever increasing instances of financial fraud in our society, representatives of the National Center for Victims of Crime and the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) held a halfday seminar in Augusta on Friday, October 24, to help educate law enforcement officials, public advocates, government officials and employers on recognizing, preventing and assisting victims of these crimes. Susan Arthur, manager of the Investor Protection Program at FINRA, told the audience that, incidences of various types of financial fraud have increased 50% since 2008, and result in more than $50 billion lost to fraud. There are more than 30 million victims of fraud each year, and the majority of those victims are likely to be over the age of 65 and approaching or in retirement. According to Jane Lee, director of the Financial Crime Resource Center at the National Center for Victims of Crime, the types of financial fraud most frequently perpetrated on individuals include identification theft (Social Security number theft), investment fraud (stocks, bonds, real estate or commodities), mortgage or leading fraud (homebuyers/lenders falsifying information to get loans) and mass marketing fraud (false promises of cash, good or services in exchange for cash). Lee said that those most frequently victimized include seniors, the physically impaired, those with cognitive issues or age related incapacity, individuals grieving the loss of a loved one, victims of domestic violence, near retirees or past victims of financial fraud. The purpose of the seminar was to point out the increasing frequency of this type of crime, the profile of the most likely victims, the fact that even the most astute consumer can fall prey to these types of schemes, and most importantly, to be aware of the signs of potential fraudulent activities among the service population—or even your own family and co-workers. For additional information or questions, interested parties should contact the National Center for Victims of Crime online at www.victimsofcrime.org or by calling (202) 467-8749, or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority online at www.SaveAndInvest.org/FraudCenter. of 21st century medical practice. Our scientists and students define how tissues repair and regenerate after disease- and trauma-induced injury and loss. Their ultimate goal is to develop new lifesaving treatments for many of Maine’s most serious and expensive health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. In February 2013, two of our scientists launched Novo Biosciences, Inc. to more rapidly advance one of our drug discoveries into a potential new treatment for patients who have suffered a heart attack. The MDI Biological Laboratory has a proven and strong track record in leveraging state bond funds. From 2001 to 2007, we received $5.7 million in bond funding from the Maine Biomedical Research Fund. That investment allowed us to create over 55 new high paying jobs and to bring $106 million in federal grants to Maine, a 19:1 return on the state’s investment. If funded, Question 5 will allow the MDI Biological Laboratory to construct a 3,000 square foot training lab that will expand our workforce training programs and be used to train an estimated 800 Maine students over the next five years. It will also allow us to recruit and retain multiple scientists and expand our drug discovery efforts. At $3 million, Question 5 is the smallest of the bond questions, but it will have a powerful impact on Maine’s ability to build a dynamic economy and retain its young people. We can no longer rely solely on what worked yesterday to sustain us in the future. If Maine is going to thrive, we must expand our science and technology sector and create the highly skilled workforce needed to attract 21st century industries to Maine. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Vote Yes on 6 to protect clean water and create 1,000 clean water jobs Question 6: Do you favor a $10,000,000 bond issue to ensure clean water and safe communities across Maine; to protect drinking water sources; to restore wetlands; to create jobs and vital public infrastructure; and to strengthen the State’s long-term economic base and competitive advantage? There are many issues dividing Mainers as the November 4th election nears. However, a “Yes on 6” supports clean water and clean water jobs for Maine and has earned the strong backing from Republicans, Democrats, Independents, business leaders, contractors, sportsmen and women, municipal leaders, economic development professionals and environmentalists from every region of the state. A “Yes on 6” is good for Maine’s economy, good for Maine’s bottom line and good for Maine’s environment. Passed with support from Republicans, Democrats and Independents by a margin of 126-19 in the House and 30-2 in the Senate, a “Yes on 6” supports clean water and clean water jobs by allowing a $10 million investment in badly needed infrastructure improvements in communities across Maine. Funds will be split between investments in: Ÿ Built Infrastructure: $5.4 million to upgrade stream crossings to reconnect habitat for fish and other wildlife; Ÿ Natural Infrastructure: $400k to restore wetlands to provide increased flood mitigation, water quality and wildlife habitat benefits; and, Ÿ Maine’s Revolving Loan Fund: $4.2 million to secure $21 million in federal funding to upgrade the state’s drinking water systems and wastewater treatment facilities. Good for Maine’s Economy… “Yes on 6” enjoys the backing of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Maine, GrowSmart Maine, and the Northern Maine Development Commission. According to an analysis by AGC, if the measure passes on November 4th, Maine’s economy will create or sustain 1,000 jobs; add $119 million to Maine’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP); and, add $38.5 million to personal earnings. Good for Maine’s Bottom Line… “Yes on 6” enjoys the backing of Republicans, Democrats and Independents who have studied Maine’s existing water infrastructure as well as Maine municipal leaders, civil engineers and urban and rural water officials. Ÿ A “Yes on 6” will bring $21 million in federal matching funds. A “no” vote on Question 6 would mark the first time in history Maine failed to collect its share of these funds. Ÿ Much of Maine’s water infrastructure is World War II era or even 100 years old. There is no question that it will have to be upgraded and improved in the years ahead. Ÿ A recent study by the Portland Water District found investments like the ones in Question 6 can save taxpayers money. Waiting to address water infrastructure needs can cost 2.5 times more later. Good for Maine’s Environment… “Yes on 6” would create tremendous benefits for Maine’s environment and its fish, game and wildlife. It enjoys the backing of the Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, The Nature Conservancy, Maine Audubon, the Environmental Priorities Coalition and numerous other conservation and land trust organizations. If the measure passes on November 4th, it helps protect clean drinking water; upgrades storm water systems to prevent sewage overflow into rivers, streams and coastal waterways; restores natural habitat so Maine’s fish, game and wildlife can thrive; and, protects Maine’s quality of place – and its recreation and tourism economy – for future generations. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Question 7 seeks to strengthen Maine’s marine economy Question 7: Do you favor a $7,000,000 bond issue to facilitate the growth of marine businesses and commercial enterprises that create jobs and improve the sustainability of the State’s marine economy and related industries through capital investments, to be matched by at least $7,000,000 in private and other funds?” In November, Maine voters will have the chance to strengthen our marine economy through a $7 million bond. Marine stakeholders and business leaders across Maine are working together to ensure Maine voters support a bond authorized by the Maine Legislature to fund competitive grants to boost the states marine economy by voting yes on Question 7. Thanks to the vision of a bipartisan group of Legislators and many stakeholders invested in the future of Maine’s marine economy, the bond will focus on joining Maine’s marine research expertise with working families and fisherman, sustainable aquaculture interests and seafood processors, shippers, marketers and consumers that will help facilitate commercial sector growth. This strategic investment will guarantee that we can maximize our greatest resources—our coast and our hardworking, innovative Maine people. With funds from the bond, we have the opportunity to bring Maine’s diverse fisheries, fish processors, and marine research institutions together. From our lobstermen to our students studying marine sciences at the University of New England, all of us win when Maine’s marine economy is thriving. The prosperity of our marine economy underpins the future success of in our state. Maine’s marine economy accounts for about 36,000 jobs and more than $500 million in annual economic activity, and we know it has the potential to grow even more. We hope you vote “Yes” on Question 7 to ensure that Maine’s marine economy continues to grow. 10/23/2014 III Impact III 7 New IT training opportunities available at Maine’s Community Colleges A $13 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor is enabling Maine’s seven community colleges to expand dramatically the courses and programs they offer in Information Technology. The grant is also providing new workforce training opportunities for employers across the state along with access to state-of-the-art equipment, software, and facilities for training purposes. The initiative, known as Maine is IT!, is designed to address the growing need for skilled information technology workers across the state and across many industries. It is projected to serve nearly 2,100 participants through dozens of new or expanded programs—both credit and noncredit—at the seven colleges. Maine is IT! provides new pathways and multiple entry points for those interested in accessing in-demand IT programs, courses, and industry-recognized certifications. Among the new offerings: two-year associate degree programs in network security/computer forensics, information security, and information systems integration; one-year certificates in web development and network administration; and short-term training in everything from CompTIA and Microsoft certifications to PC repair to Linux operating systems. The initiative is also enabling the community colleges to strengthen and expand its system of prior learning assessment so that incumbent workers and others are better able to earn college credit for relevant life and work experiences. More information about Maine is IT! can be found on the Maine Community College System’s website (www.mccs.me.edu/Maine-is-IT), including a list of courses and programs being offered this year. Information about prior learning assessment and the Maine is IT! offerings at specific colleges is available from the following individuals: Ÿ Central Maine Community College (Auburn): Emily Butterfield (ebutterfield@cmcc.edu; (207) 755-5375); Ÿ Eastern Maine Community College (Bangor): Tim Conroy (tconroy@emcc.edu; (207) 974-4638) or Stacy Green (sgreen@emcc.edu; (207) 974-4679); Ÿ Kennebec Valley Community College (Fairfield and Hinckley): Carrie Dionne (cdionne@kvcc.me.edu; (207) 453-5815) or Alex Clifford (aclifford@kvcc.me.edu; (207) 453-5159); Ÿ Northern Maine Community College (Presque Isle): Carole Belanger-Bittle (cbelanger@nmcc.edu; (207) 760-1125) or Shawn Lahey (slahey@nmcc.edu; (207) 760-1124); Ÿ Southern Maine Community College (South Portland and Brunswick): Katharine Lualdi (klualdi@smccme.edu; (207) 741-5893) or Thomas W. Nickerson, MSW (tnickerson@smccme.edu; (207) 741-5691); Ÿ Washington County Community College (Calais): Mary-Ann Urquhart (murquhart@wccc.me.edu; (207) 454-1092) or David Sousa (dsousa@wccc.me.edu; (207) 454-1003); or, Ÿ York County Community College (Wells): Danielle Ebbrecht (debbrecht@yccc.edu, 207-216-4324). w Thursday, May 14, 2015 w 8:00 a.m. to Noon w The Maine State Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Business Day at the Statehouse on Thursday, May 14, 2015, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Hall of Flags (Statehouse, Second Floor). For more information or to RSVP, please contact Linda Caprara, director of grassroots advocacy, by calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 106, or by emailing lcaprara@mainechamber.org. With your participation, the “Voice of Maine Business” will resonate throughout Augusta! 8 III Impact III 10/23/2014 For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org U.S. Chamber Foundation report gives Maine strong marks on education “Leaders & Laggards Report Card” assesses state education systems nationwide The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, an affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, recently released the fourth edition of its Leaders & Laggards series, A State-by-State Report Card on K–12 Educational Effectiveness. The report, developed in collaboration with the American Enterprise Institute, evaluates educational effectiveness in 11 categories: academic achievement; academic achievement for low-income and minority students; return on investment; truth in advertising: student proficiency; postsecondary and workforce readiness; 21st century teaching force; parental options; data quality; technology; international competitiveness; and, fiscal responsibility. The report gives Maine strong marks for academic achievement, academic achievement for low-income and minori- ty students, and postsecondary and workforce readiness, among others. “In a 21st century global economy, it is imperative that all students receive the high-quality education necessary to open the doors of opportunity and put them on the road to lifelong success,” said U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation President John McKernan Jr. “As a former governor, I’m pleased to see that Maine is making progress. It’s important to continue the momentum to ensure Maine students will be competitive for the jobs of today and tomorrow.” The Leaders & Laggards report shows that student performance in Maine is above average. Fourth graders stand 5% above the national average of students proficient in math, and 22 students out of 100 pass an AP exam. Maine also earns a solid made 2014 Progress since 2007 MAINE Academic Achievement Academic Achievement for Low-Income and Minority Students B B Return on Investment Truth in Advertising: Student Proficiency Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness 21st Century Teaching Force Parental Options Data Quality Technology International Competitiveness Fiscal Responsibility B BA CB A D+ B A Academic Achievement 21st Century Teaching Force Relative to other states, student performance in Maine is above average. Fourth graders stand 5% above the national average of 42% in the percentage at or above the proficient level on the NAEP math exam. Maine does a mediocre job of creating a strong teacher workforce. The Pine Tree State largely fails to identify effective teachers and remove ineffective ones, but it is middling at retaining effective teachers. Academic Achievement for Low-Income and Minority Students Parental Options Maine earns a solid grade on academic achievement for low-income and minority students. Thirty-two percent of low-income 4th graders score at or above the proficient level on the NAEP math exam. The national average is 25%. Because the state does not have a large enough Hispanic student population to meet NAEP sampling requirements, Maine’s grade is based solely on low-income and AfricanAmerican students. Return on Investment Student achievement in Maine is high relative to state spending after controlling for cost of living. Truth in Advertising: Student Proficiency Maine posts above average marks on the credibility of its student proficiency scores. The grade is based on the difference between the percentage of students identified as proficient in reading and math on the 2011 state exams and the percentage identified as proficient on the 2011 NAEP reading and math tests. Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Maine earns a very high grade preparing its students for college and careers. Eighty-seven percent of 9th graders receive a diploma in four years, and 22 students out of 100 pass an AP exam. Maine does a good job providing parents with strong school choice options. It has a very strong charter school law that permits a variety of providers, as well as a small school choice program. Data Quality Maine earns an excellent grade collecting and reporting high-quality education data. It funded and built a longitudinal data system, and it provides parents with data to track their children’s academic progress. Technology Maine receives a poor grade employing technology to provide quality instruction and personalized learning. Students have some access to high-quality digital learning options, but the state could continue to improve how it assesses and funds providers. International Competitiveness Maine earns a high grade preparing its students to compete in a global economy. Thirty-six percent of students are proficient in reading and math compared with an international standard. Almost 12 students out of 100 pass an AP STEM exam. Fiscal Responsibility Maine receives very high marks on fiscal responsibility. Seventy-nine percent of its pension is funded, and the state’s most recent pension contribution was 100%. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org C NA grade on academic achievement for lowincome and minority students with 32% of low-income 4th graders scoring proficient in math. The state also earns a high grade in preparing its students to compete in a global economy as 35% of students scored proficient in reading and math compared with an international standard. However, Maine ranks lower on creating a strong teacher workforce, and lags when it comes to employing technology to provide instruction and personalized learning. The U.S. Chamber is urging policymakers, the business community, and educators to craft a reform agenda that demands high academic standards, promotes transparency, provides options for families, and offers every child a high-quality education. To view Maine’s report card, please visit www.leadersandlaggards.org/reportcard/maine. To view the report, visit the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation Leaders & Laggards website at www.leadersandlaggards.org/. Meetings, Receptions, Conferences, Banquets and more! The Augusta Civic Center is within an hour and a half drive for more than 75% of Maine's population and is conveniently located immediately off I-95. We are a full service facility with a 25,000 square foot auditorium, 23 flexible meeting rooms, including 2 ballrooms, and a full kitchen and food service staff on site. With over 41 years experience in conventions, trade shows, conferences and banquets, we stand ready to serve you! Augusta Civic Center Community Dr., Augusta, ME 04330 For information, please call (207) 626-2405 or visit us at www.augustaciviccenter.org 10/23/2014 III Impact III 9 CASELLA, YOUR MAINE RESOURCE We offer sustainable programs to our customers that not only provide sound economic and environmental return but also build jobs and careers. We view waste as a valuable resource as well as an opportunity for positive change. Learn how we’re giving resources new life at casella.com and or call us at 1-800-CASELLA. The end of multiple choice recycling! Just toss all your recyclables into one bin, we take care of the rest. It’s simple, convenient and effective. Casella Organics® transforms traditional organic waste streams, including short paper fiber, ash, wood wastes, food wastes and biosolids into compost and other renewable products. fb.com/ZeroSort Waste collection, responsible disposal, e-waste recycling and LEED certification services for material diversion and reporting. CASELLA RESOURCE SOLUTIONS RECYCLING · 10 III Impact III 10/23/2014 COLLECTION · ORGANICS · ENERGY · LANDFILLS For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Annual Dinner... (Continued from Page 1...) University of New England. In his welcoming remarks, Connors highlighted the Chamber’s InternHelpME program, which works with all of Maine’s colleges and universities, as well as our state’s employers, to provide our young people with internship opportunities in an effort to grow our future workforce. The gubernatorial forum, moderated by WCSH 6 anchor Pat Callaghan, was the highlight of the evening. The lively and informative forum featured all three Maine candidates for governor – Republican Governor Paul LePage, Democratic Congressman Mike Michaud and Independent Eliot Cutler. The forum was broadcast live on WCSH 6 and WLBZ 2 to their statewide audience. Following the gubernatorial forum, the State Chamber held its annual awards ceremony, this year honoring Peter Vigue of Cianbro with the prestigious Alton “Chuck” Cianchette Business Hall of Fame Award. Charles “Chip” Morrison of the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce and Peter Thompson of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce were honored with the President’s Recognition Award. Christopher Fogg of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce was named the Chamber Executive of the Year, and the Chamber Volunteer of the Year Award was presented to Dale Bouton for his work with the Greater Freeport Chamber of Commerce. Three companies—Cross Insurance, Eimskip and Molnlycke Health Care—were presented with Investor Awards. More information appears on page 15. Connors concluded the event by thanking this year’s event sponsors: Premier sponsor Kaplan University; Cornerstone sponsors American Chemistry Council; CIANBRO; Preti Flaherty, LLP, and Unum; as well as Time Warner Cable, MEMIC and Walmart. A complete list of sponsors appears on page 14. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org 10/23/2014 III Impact III 11 We want to extend a special “thank you” to our Taste of Maine reception vendors! These vendors graciously donated their time and product. Please support these local vendors throughout the year! From the Sea: Ÿ La Bella Vita at The Samoset Resort (www.samosetresort.com) celebrates that passion for the good life and good food. As they do in Italy, we use only the freshest ingredients - with an emphasis on gardengrown vegetables and healthy olive oil - to prepare the same wonderfully flavourful centuries old dishes the Italians are famous for. You don't have to live in Italy to live like an Italian. Just experience La Bella Vita and you'll enjoy the passion for the good life. And you can start living the good life by sampling our famous Lobster Corn Chowder featuring Maine’s prize lobster, roasted corn, farm fresh cream and our own special seasonings. Ÿ Ducktrap River of Maine (www.ducktrap.com) is a leader in the smoked seafood industry. Since 1978 we have kept our focus on being a leader by maintaining strict adherence to the highest standards of quality, service, and value. Our full line of smoked seafood is produced all naturally with no artificial ingredients or preservatives. We have perfected ideal recipes for smoking seafood in Continued on Page 13... 12 III Impact III 10/23/2014 For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Taste of Maine Reception... (Continued from Page 12...) small batches at our smokehouse in Belfast. Our Sweet Treats: Ÿ Bixby & Co. (www.bixbyco.com) is an innovative chocolate bar manufacturer based in Belfast. Producing BIXBY BARS in six unique flavors that combine organic, sustainably sourced chocolate with nuts, dried fruits and spices, Bixby & Co. creates healthy and nutritious chocolate options that are Certified Gluten Free, Verified Vegan options (3), Kosher and Non-GMO. A 100% certified Woman’s Owned and YouthTrade Certified business. From our Farms: Ÿ Backyard Farms (www.Backyard F a r m s . c o m ; www.facebook.com/BackyardFarms) located in Madison, Maine, grows fresh, ripened-on-thevine tomatoes year round in 42 acres of greenhouse growing space. The company has based its business on the principles of growing the best tomatoes possible, taking care of its employees, and giving back to local communities. Backyard Farms tomatoes are left on the vine to ripen until they’re red and are shipped within just a day of harvest to local markets, creating a tomato that is sweet and bursting with flavor. Ÿ Penobscot McCrum (www.penobscotmccrum.com) and the McCrum family represents five generations of potato farmers who began in the northern Maine town of Mars Hill. As dedicated stewards of the land, the McCrums take great pride in their family’s longtime commitment to integrity, sustainability and the highest quality standards. Today, the McCrum family enterprise spans the Continued on Page 16... For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org 10/23/2014 III Impact III 13 2014 A N N U A L A W A R D S D I N N E R : Gubernatorial Forum PREMIER SPONSOR CORNERSTONE SPONSORS American Chemistry Council CIANBRO Preti Flaherty, LLP Unum CHAIRMAN’S RECEPTION SPONSOR SENIOR SPONSORS Time Warner Cable Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine Bangor Savings Bank Maine Department of Economic & Community Development Unitil Corp. AWARDS SPONSOR Walmart WELCOME RECEPTION SPONSOR MEMIC CORPORATE SPONSORS AT&T Wireless; Burns & McDonnell; Dead River Company; Emera Maine; First Choice Printing, Inc.; Hannaford Supermarkets; Headlight Audio Visual, Inc.; IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.; Maine Street Solutions; MaineHealth; Martin’s Point Health Care; Mercy Health System of Maine; Pierce Atwood LLP; Procter & Gamble-Tambrands; Southern New Hampshire University; Summit Natural Gas of Maine, Inc.; University of New England; Verrill Dana, LLP CONTRIBUTING SPONSORS Altria Client Services, Inc.; Casella Waste Systems; Central Maine Power Company; Corning, Inc.; Eastern Maine Healthcare Systems; FairPoint Communications; L.L. Bean, Inc.; Maine Chamber Group Trust; McCain Foods USA, Inc.; Oxford Casino; Plum Creek Timber Company; The Jackson Laboratory; The Sheridan Corporation; Verizon Wireless 14 III Impact III 10/23/2014 For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org 2014 Awards and Honors Chamber Volunteer of the Year Chamber Executive of the Year President’s Awards The Chamber Volunteer of the Year award honors an individual who is actively dedicated to the vitality of their local chamber. This year’s recipient is Dale Bouton, CEO of Winter People, a family-run image marketing company located in Freeport. The Chamber Executive of the Year recognizes a local chamber executive’s hard work and dedication on efforts such as economic development initiatives, successful events, and an improved bottom line, as well as demonstrated involvement in collaborative ventures in support of local / regional chambers and its communities. This year’s recipient is Chris Fogg, executive director of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce. The Maine State Chamber was pleased to present this year’s President’s Award to two members of the “chamber family” for their commitment each has made and the legacy both have created for their chamber, their community, the region and our state. Charles “Chip” Morrison serves as president of the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce, and Peter Thompson is president and CEO of the Kennebec Valley Chamber of Commerce. Together they have served 45 years as the chief executive officers for their respective chambers. While the length of service in and of itself is really quite extraordinary, and reason enough to warrant this award, it’s the service in those years that marks the excellence of their careers and why we chose to honor them this evening. Three Maine Investor Awards were also presented in recognition of outstanding contributions by Maine businesses to the growth of their companies, their community, and our state: Cross Insurance, Eimskip, and Molnlycke. Each year, the Maine State Chamber proudly presents its Maine Business Hall Continued on Page 17... For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org 10/23/2014 III Impact III 15 Taste of Maine Reception... (Continued from Page 13...) entire state, specializing in every aspect of potatoes. This vertical integration allows the McCrum family to monitor quality from field to table, ensuring that the highest standards are met every step along the way. Our focus is on creating and delivering the highest quality, highest performing frozen potato specialty products available. Penobscot McCrum is a market leader in several potato specialty product categories. We are recognized by our customers as a gold standard setter and valued advisor for potato specialties. Maine Investor Award: Cross Insurance Our Entrepreneurial Crafts: Ÿ Maine Cheese from State of Maine Cheese Co. (www.cheese-me.com) in Rockport makes handcrafted natural cheeses, such as various Cheddars, Monterey Jack, Caerphilly, Gouda, and Fresh Mozzarella. Our cows’ milk comes from Springdale Farm in Waldo, Maine. State of Maine Cheese Co. is a member of the Maine Cheese Guild; their mission is to support and encourage the Maine cheese making community throughout the state. Maine Investor Award: Eimskip Micro-brews and Fine Wines: Ÿ Baxter Brewing: www.baxterbrewing.com Ÿ Belfast Bay Brewing Co.: www.belfastbaybrewing.com Ÿ Shipyard Brewing, Co.: www.shipyard.com Ÿ Cellardoor Winery: www.mainewine.com Maine Investor Award: Mӧlnlycke 16 III Impact III 10/23/2014 For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Cianchette Business Hall of Fame Award Awards and Honors... (Continued from Page 17...) of Fame award named in remembrance of Chuck Cianchette. The honor is bestowed upon a person who reflect his values. The Alton “Chuck” Cianchette Business Hall of Fame award recognizes the contributions of an individual who demonstrates public service leadership, business success, and most importantly, embodies his spirit through compassion, courage, and commitment. The 2014 Cianchette Business Hall of Fame award was presented to Peter Vigue of Cianbro. The posting of the colors was executed by the Maine Public Safety Pipe and Drum Corps. Our National Anthem was performed by Morgan Wellman, a junior at Cony High School in Augusta. The music for the evening was performed by Sam Schuth, violinist from USM School of Music. Empower Empower yyour our company’s company’s ffuture uture with training. with employee employee tr aining. workforce from om who ho th they ar are e TTransform ransform yyour our w orkforce fr today into today int o who they need tto o be tomorrow. tomorrow. w W We e pr provide ovide tr training aining in the these se and d othe other her key keyy areas: a eas: ar > > > > > B uilding ccompetencies ompetencies and bridgin Building bridging dgin ging sk skills ills g gaps aps D eveloping new career career skills skills Developing Pr omoting pr ofessional dev elo op pment nt Promoting professional development Impr oving manager manager skills skills ffor or o ssuccession uccession p lanning Improving planning sh hip tr aiining Pr oviding high-l evel lleadership eadership Providing high-level training ,BQMBO6OJWFSTJUZPGGFSTNPSFUIBOEFHSFFBOEDFSUJkDBUFQS Q PHSBNT ,BQMBO6OJWFSTJUZPGGFSTNPSFUIBOEFHSFFBOEDFSUJkDBUFQSPHSBNT at the associate’s, associate’s, bachelor’s, bachelor’s, and an nd master’s master’s llevels. evels. For For comprehensive comprehensive cconsumer onsumer inf information, ormation, vvisit isit http://www http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/student-consumer-information.aspx. .kaplanuniversity.edu/student-c - onsumer-inform mation.aspx. information, FFor or more more inf ormation, ccall all 855.KUMaine 855.KUMaine or or visit visit KUMaine.com. KUMaine.com. CHMBR_AD_11/13 CHMBR_AD_11/1 3 For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org 10/23/2014 III Impact III 17 The ninth annual “Best Places to Work in Maine” announces the #1 companies in the state On Thursday, October 9, Edward Jones based in Belfast was ranked as the number one “Best Places to Work in Maine” in the large company category. Patriot Subaru, located in Saco, took the same honor in the medium category, and first place in the small company category was presented to TruChoice Federal Credit Union, based in South Portland. The Society for Human Resource Management’s (SHRM) Maine State Council’s awards and recognition dinner held last night at the Holiday Inn by the Bay in Portland where it announced the top 10 companies in each category to a packed house of more than 500 people. Administered by the Best Companies Group, the assessment process evaluated each company’s employee policies and procedures, as well as responses from the company’s employees to a survey. In August, the Best Companies Group released its list of the 70 companies that made the cut as the overall Best Places to Work. The program marks the most recent step in a long-term initiative to encourage growth and excellence throughout all Maine companies. The rankings for all 70 companies that made the “2014 Best Places to Work in Maine” list are as follows: Large Company Category (250 plus U.S. Employees)… 1 Edward Jones, Belfast; 2 CIANBRO, Pittsfield; 3 Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, Lewiston; 4 Diversified Communications, Portland; 5 Tyler Technologies, Inc., Yarmouth; 6 Geiger Group, Lewiston; 7 athenahealth, Inc. Belfast; 8 Bangor Savings Bank, Bangor; 9 Unum, Portland; 10 InterMed, P.A., South Portland; 11 New Balance Athletic Shoe Inc., Norridgewock; Continued on Page 19... 18 III Impact III 10/23/2014 The Maine State Chamber of Commerce invites you to a special event: Federal Health Care Reform: After the Mid-Term Elections and into 2015 Tues., Dec. 2 w 8:00 a.m. to Noon w Senator Inn & Spa, Augusta After nearly four years, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) has cleared many of the implementation milestones that policy watchers and state and national politicians had either jeered or cheered. Once again, it should be clear that even with potential power swings in Congress, the ACA isn’t going away anytime soon. This provocative law remains just that – national law. As we enter 2015, once again a number of critical programmatic milestones are scheduled to be triggered, including the opening of the small business exchange program (SHOP) and the triggering of the employer mandate. But just how are these integral parts of the ACA going to work? What do affected employers of all sizes need to know about in order to make informed decisions for themselves and their employees? Like the other years in the life of the ACA, 2015 is a critical year, both in Maine and nationally, for Maine businesses and individual citizens. After so many years of inaction, will Congress and the Obama Administration finally come to an agreement on how best to fix the problems with the act, or will politics once again win out? Many important choices will need to be made as we head into the important 2015 implementation year. What do businesses need to know now; what should they be doing now to meet the coming changes and requirements of the ACA and what are the next steps? Please join the Maine State Chamber of Commerce for an informative and timely presentation on the status of the national health care reform law, and the forecast for any changes by Congress, and heading into 2015. We will be joined by a panel of experts, local and national, who will provide you with the most upto-date information on what the future may hold for your business and your employees. You won’t want to miss it! Agenda (subject to some modification): 8:00 a.m. Continental Breakfast & Registration 8:30 a.m. Welcome 8:45 a.m. Speaker Presentations 10:45 a.m. Morning Break 11:00 a.m. Q & A panel Discussion 12:00 noon Adjourn This is a free event but seating is limited so pre-registration is a must! Please email Amy Downing at adowning@mainechamber.org to register. Thank You to Our Sponsors! Presenting Sponsor: Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Principal Sponsor: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Maine Breakfast Sponsor: EMHS – Beacon Health Registration Sponsor: FairPoint Communications Program Sponsor: Maine Hospital Association Supporting Sponsor: Kennebec Technologies; University of New England For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Best Places To Work... (Continued from Page 18...) 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 T-Mobile US, Oakland; Carbonite, Inc., Lewiston; Barclays, Wilton; Consigli Construction Co., Inc., Portland; Maine Veterans’ Homes, Augusta; Hancock Lumber Company, Casco; Kaplan University Maine Campuses, South Portland; Cintas Corporation, Westbrook; and, Hollywood Casino Bangor, Bangor. Medium Company Category (50 to 249 U.S. employees)… 1 Patriot Subaru, Saco; 2 Town & Country Federal Credit Union, South Portland; 3 Infinity Federal Credit Union, Westbrook; 4 Kepware Technologies, Portland; 5 Machias Savings Bank, Machias; 6 Community Care, Bangor; 7 Connectivity Point, Auburn; 8 Maine State Credit Union, Augusta; 9 Allen Insurance and Financial, Camden; 10 Tom’s of Maine, Kennebunk; 11 SeniorsPlus, Lewiston; 12 Cash Star, Inc., Portland; 13 Bath Savings Institution, Bath; 14 FISC Solutions, Lewiston; 15 Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, Bar Harbor; 16 Moody’s Collision Centers, Inc., Gorham; 17 Apothecary By Design, Portland; 18 Maine Savings Federal Credit Union, Hampden; 19 Allagash Brewing Co., Portland; 20 Coastal Women’s Healthcare, Scarborough; 21 Good Shepherd Food Bank, Auburn; 22 Skowhegan Savings Bank, Skowhegan; 23 GreenPages Technology Solutions, Kittery; 24 Systems Engineering, Inc., Portland; 25 Mechanics Savings Bank, Auburn; 26 Putney, Inc., Portland; 27 Androscoggin Bank, Lewiston; 28 Clark Insurance, Portland; 29 Maine Credit Union League of Synergent, Portland; 30 F.A. Peabody Company, Houlton; 31 Day’s Jewelers, Waterville; 32 Winxnet, Portland; 33 BlueTarp Financial, Portland; 34 Harriman, Auburn; 35 Bedard Pharmacy and Medical Supplies, Auburn; and, 36 Thayer Corporation, Auburn. Small Company Category (15 to 49 U.S. employees)… 1 TruChoice Federal Credit Union, South Portland; 2 Pierce, Portland; 3 Sage Data Security LLC., Portland; 4 Hall Internet Marketing, Portland; 5 SFX AMERICA, Portland; 6 MPX, Portland; 7 Albin, Randall & Bennett, Portland; 8 Plixer International, Inc., Kennebunk; 9 Kennebec Federal Savings, Waterville; 10 RLC Engineering, LLC., Hallowell; 11 Holden Agency, Portland; 12 PeoplesChoice Credit Union, Saco; 13 Nurse Anesthesia of Maine, Brewer; and, 14 BONNEY Staffing Center, Portland. The 2014 Best Places to Work in Maine program recognizes companies that have established and consistently fostered outstanding workplace environments. Partners endorsing the program include the Best Companies Group, the Maine HR Convention, the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, the Maine Department of Labor, the Department of Economic and Community Development, and Mainebiz. The program also helps companies that want to improve their score. The Best Companies Group’s “Employee Feedback Report” is presented to each participating company, even if it did not make the list. The report summarizes employee engagement and satisfaction data, the “Maine Benchmark Report,” and the transcript of employee written comments. The report is used by many organizations to make significant improvements in their workplace culture. Further details about the “Best Places to Work in Maine” program and the awards banquet can be found online at www.bestplacestoworkinme.com. For more information, please contact Dave Vasconcelos at ProSearch Inc. by emailing dvasconcelos@psicareers.com or calling (207) 699-4383; Jodie Griffith at InterMed P.A. by emailing jgriffith@intermed.com or calling (207) 523-3721; or, Jackie Miller at the Best Companies Group by calling (877) 455-2159, ext. 271. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Governor’s Award for Business Excellence presented to Maine companies On Friday, September 19, Governor Paul R. LePage today presented eight Maine companies with a 2014 Governor’s Award for Business Excellence during a reception at Southern Maine Community College in South Portland. The 24th annual awards, administered by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development and sponsored by FairPoint Communications, recognize Maine businesses that are successful in a variety of ways. “These businesses represent the best of the best here in Maine,” said Governor LePage. “All eight of these companies are committed to quality workmanship, maintaining a loyal and dedicated workforce, and giving back to the communities they do business in. Their leadership and direction is solid and I am honored to recognize their efforts and I thank them for doing business here in Maine.” This year’s Business Award recipients are: Ÿ Priority Real Estate – Topsham: Priority Real Estate Group is a commercial real estate investment and development company. Established in 1998, Priority has built, owns and manages more than $100 million of professional, medical, educational, retail, manufacturing, and industrial space. While achieving success locally, Priority is also invested in their community. 90% of all their financial contributions go to organizations that support children, provide heating assistance and address hunger prevention. Their biggest community development project to date is the Veterans Resource Center at Brunswick Landing. The Center provides assistance to veterans and their families in obtaining benefits, services and resources to meet their needs and support their reintegration into the community. Continued on Page 20... 10/23/2014 III Impact III 19 Observing National Disability Employment Awareness Month In October of each year, our nation observes National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an annual awareness campaign to educate businesses and the general public about disability employment issues, as well as celebrate the many and varied contributions of America’s workers with disabilities. The history of National Disability Employment Awareness Month traces back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October each year “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week.” In 1962, the word “physically” was removed to acknowledge the employment needs and contributions of individuals with all types of disabilities. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a full month and changed the name to National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Providing meaningful employment for people with disabilities is a priority for the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and our affiliate, the Maine Business Leadership Network. Last November, in partnership with the Maine Development Foundation, we released our fourth Making Maine Work Report: Growing Maine’s Workforce. The report stresses the importance of hiring people with disabilities to meet our goal of growing Maine’s workforce by 65,000 by the year 2020, which is vital to improving Maine’s economy. Included in the 65,000 is the recommendation that we add 10,000 people with disabilities to our labor force. All businesses have a role to play in, and benefit to gain from, increasing opportunities for meaningful employment for people with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Expect. Empower. Employ.” It conveys that advancing disability employment is about much more than just hiring. It’s about creating a continuum of inclusion. And the first step on this continuum is expectation. Our aim this October, and throughout the year, is to spread the important message that a strong workforce is one incluContinued on Page 21... 20 III Impact III 10/23/2014 Business Excellence... Ÿ Huhtamaki – Waterville: For more than 100 years, Huhtamaki, Inc. has developed, manufactured and distributed a wide range of molded fiber articles including more than 400 different products in 100 different sizes. The finished goods are distributed across the U.S and Europe, thanks to the efforts of nearly 500 full-time employees. Huhtamaki is the birthplace of the famous Chinet® brand as a result of the invention of Martin Keyes, founder of the Keyes Fibre Company. Mr. Keyes invented molded fiber technology in 1903; and in 2013, the company donated nearly 2,000 cases of Chinet® plates to non-profit organizations throughout Maine. Ÿ GAC Chemical – Searsport: GAC Chemical Corporation and its 65 employees are proud to be celebrating 20 years of business in Maine. GAC manufactures and distributes industrial, specialty, and fine chemicals. Primary markets include: pulp and paper, power plant, industrial manufacturing, potable municipal water, as well as waste water. GAC is the worldwide leader in the production of high purity ammonium sulfate used in markets such as pharmaceutical, food, and water treatment. In 2013, GAC partnered with a manufacturer based in Mexico. This company’s multi-million-dollar project at GAC marked the first Foreign Direct Investment from Mexico into Maine and allowed GAC to become certified as a Pine Tree Zone business. Ÿ Fluid Imaging Technologies – Scarborough: Fluid Imaging Technologies manufactures a proprietary digital-imaging particle analysis system called FlowCAM. The company is a spin-off of Bigelow Laboratories and its initial “headquarters” was located above a garage in East Boothbay. In the past 15 years, the company experienced rapid growth and to accommodate the expanding team; Fluid Imaging Technologies moved to its fourth location last summer. This new location is equipped with a state-of-the-art testing laboratory, a dedicated product development area, and expanded production (Continued from Page 19...) Ÿ Kepware Technologies – Portland: Kepware Technologies is a software development company. Established in 1995 and now distributed in more than 100 countries, Kepware provides a portfolio of software solutions to help businesses connect diverse automation devices and software applications. From plant floor to well site to wind farm, Kepware serves a wide range of customers in a variety of international vertical markets including manufacturing, oil and gas, building automation, power distribution, and more. Ÿ Winxnet - Portland: Since 1999, Winxnet has been helping organizations reduce their IT costs, lower risk, and achieve greater ROI on technology initiatives. With offices throughout New England and the Southeast, Winxnet works with corporations, healthcare organizations, non-profits and public sector entities of all sizes. As a premiere IT outsourcing and consulting firm, Winxnet believes providing IT services is about more than just keeping information secure and systems and devices operational. Their business is based on establishing relationships with clients, understanding their unique challenges and then helping solve even the most complex of problems. Ÿ Hall Internet Marketing – Portland: Hall Internet Marketing is a 15-year-old organization that builds and markets retail and B2B websites. Hall has become a national player in search engine marketing by creating some really powerful technology— thanks to the support of The Maine Centers for Entrepreneurial Development, The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, and with funding from The Maine Technology Institute. Its 20 employees enjoy an innovative corporate culture that has earned four consecutive Best Places to Work in Maine awards. A founding member of the Casco Bay Technology Hub, Hall’s continued support for start-ups and new ideas adds a bit of a Silicon Valley feel to the Maine economy. Continued on Page 21... For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org Disability Awareness... (Continued from Page 20...) Have you read the Good News? Last fall, the Maine State Chamber launched a new partnership with JustGoodNews.biz, a free, national online news service that focuses solely on publishing positive business headline news from around the country, including Maine. The service is a powerful tool for attracting new businesses to a state, and includes a “Who’s Hiring” page connecting job seekers and employers. Here are a few of the “just good news” story headlines from Maine’s business community! Ÿ Bath Iron Works recruiting in Bucksport; Ÿ Porvair pushing up production capacity in Caribou; Ÿ Jackson Laboratory mixing investment, jobs in Bar Harbor; Ÿ Precise Products manufacturing more jobs in Benton; Ÿ Gifford’s Famous Ice Cream spoons up another world title; Ÿ Rail line helping Auburn track more business; Ÿ Jotul stoking stove manufacturing, jobs in Gorham; Ÿ Oxford Networks data center expands in Brunswick; Ÿ Pride Manufacturing making Lincoln Logs, jobs in Burnham; and, Ÿ Lobster Unlimited cracking open new market for shells. We want to ensure we are covering good news stories from all across Maine and not just in specific areas. We are asking that you let us know if you have good news about growing and expanding companies; innovative businesses and startups with great ideas; hiring opportunities, so employers and jobs seekers can connect; and, national, regional, state rankings and awards. To get your good news to us, simply visit www.JustGoodNews.biz, click “Share Your Good News” at the top of the page, and fill in the information, including uploading photos if you have them (always a nice enhancement to your story). You can also add info@justgoodnews.biz to your newsletter and news release distribution list or email the basic info for follow-up to Amy Downing at adowning@mainechamber.org. If you or your company has a Facebook page, please “like” the JustGoodNews.biz Maine page - simply search for JustGOODNews.biz Maine on Facebook to find the page. If you or your company is on Twitter, you can follow JustGoodNews.biz on there too — https://twitter.com/justgoodnewsbiz. We look forward to hearing about and sharing your good news. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact Amy Downing, member services and program manager at the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, by calling (207) 623-4568, ext. 104, or by emailing adowning@mainechamber.org. For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org sive of the skills and talents of all individuals, including individuals with disabilities. The benefits of hiring people with disabilities are enormous for both the employer and the employee, and hiring people with disabilities is a critical component to growing Maine’s workforce. Employers and employees in all industries can learn more about how to participate in National Disability Employment Awareness Month and ways they can promote its messages — during October and throughout the year — by visiting the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy’s website at www.dol.gov/odep/. Maine employers and employees can also learn more about hiring people with disabilities by contacting the Maine Business Leadership Network at any time by emailing Amy Downing at adowning@mainechamber.org or Joyce LaRoche at jlaroche@mainechamber.org. Business Excellence... (Continued from Page 20...) capability. They have sold more than 500 FlowCAMs in about 45 countries, so Maine represents the global geographic epicenter of their markets and the company takes pride in being able to live and work in this state. Ÿ Haven’s Candies – Westbrook: Herbert Haven founded Haven’s Candy Kitchen on Forest Avenue in Portland back in 1915. During the past century, Haven’s has stuck to its heritage of creating the finest handcrafted confections by using the best ingredients and timeless recipes. Haven’s operates out of a chocolate factory in Westbrook, with satellite retail stores in Portland and Scarborough. Haven’s employs 28 people, many of whom have made a career with the company in the confection trade. The name Haven’s has truly become a Maine brand, and the owner and employees take great pride in being stewards of a company with deep local roots and enthusiastic customers. 10/23/2014 III Impact III 21 Connect with us daily on these social media platforms! Extreme Makeover: Environmental Remediation Edition www.mainechamber.org @mainechamber www.facebook.com/ MaineChamber On Thursday, November 20, E2Tech will be holding its Annual Meeting to elect Board Members, but will also present a forum dedicated to Maine companies that tackle some tough and dirty jobs around the country. Many commercial and industrial processes can lead to contamination of the environment with hazardous substances. Fortunately, there are also many Maine companies with specialized experience in removal of these contaminants from soil, groundwater, sediment, surface water and other environmental media. The panel represents just a sampling of those companies and environmental remediation technologies and processes they employ. For example, the Mallinckrodt facility, formerly known as HoltraChem, sits on 235 acres on the banks of the Penobscot River in Orrington and is the largest remediation site in the state. The Maine BEP Compliance Order for the site requires the removal or maintenance of five landfills; the removal of contaminated soils, sediments, and contaminated structures; and, the treatment of groundwater and surface water. Mercury pollution deposited through the Penobscot River could threaten the area’s fishing and tourism industries. Speakers from Sevee & Maher and Preti Flaherty will discuss what is now the largest environmental remediation project in Maine. TRC Environmental Corp. will examine the technical limitations, benefits and costs, human health and environmental risks, regulatory compliance, and sustainability issues related to site cleanups, focusing on petroleum releases and other hazardous materials and contaminants of concern throughout the northeast. And, St. Germain Collins will evaluate just how “clean is clean” when dealing with cleanup levels for dioxin at the parts per trillion levels and innovative and cost-effective field testing for dioxin in the face of different regulatory oversight and rules in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. To join us for this annual event, please register at http://www.e2tech.org/event-1729183. Heat of the Moment: Gubernatorial and Energy Forum www.youtube.com/user/ MaineChamber www.linkedin.com/groups/MaineState-Chamber-Commerce-3686793 22 III Impact III 10/23/2014 The Environmental & Energy Technology Council of Maine (E2Tech) hosted a Gubernatorial Forum & Panel Discussion on September 12: Heat of the Moment: Plans from State Officials, Energy Companies, & Maine’s Next Governor. Governor Paul LePage, Congressman Mike Michaud, and candidate Eliot Cutler were invited to provide remarks on their energy, environmental, and economic development policies and plans, to E2Tech’s diverse network of private, public and nonprofit sector members. In addition to the nearly 300 business, non-profit, government, and educational institution attendees, E2Tech welcomed 85 students from the Baxter Academy for Technology and Science, a new charter school in Portland dedicated to STEM education. Rep. Michaud and Mr. Cutler shared their energy policies with the group, along with Governor’s Energy Office Director Patrick Woodcock and Continued on Page 23... For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org United States Postal Service Form 3526… Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation EDITOR’S NOTE: The United States Postal Service requires that we publish the following “Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation” as part of the indicia permitting process. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7a. Publication Title: Impact Publication Number: 599-530 Filing Date: 10/06/2014 Issue Frequency: Weekly–January through April 2014; Monthly–May through December 2014 Number of Issues Published Annually: 17 in 2014 Annual Subscription Price: $25 Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 125 Community Drive, Suite 101, Augusta, Maine 04330-8010 7b. Contact Person: Melanie Baillargeon 7c. Telephone: (207) 623-4568, ext. 110 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: Same as above 9. Full Names and Complete mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Publisher: Maine State Chamber of Commerce. Editor: Melanie A. Baillargeon, address above. Managing Editor: Dana F. Connors, address above. 10. Owner: Maine State Chamber of Commerce, 125 Community Drive, Suite 101, Augusta, Maine 04330-8010. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgages, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None 12. Tax Status: The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes has not changed during the preceding 12 months. 13. Publication Title: Impact 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: 09/11/14 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation Left Column: Average No. of Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months Right Column: No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date 15a. Total Number of Copies (net press run): ....................................1,371 .................1,300 15b1. Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: ...........................................................731 ......................729 15b2. Paid In-County Subscriptions Stated on Form 3541: ......................0 ............................0 15b3. Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Non-USPS Paid Distribution:..................0 ............................0 15b4. Other Classes mailed Through the USPS: ...................................0 ............................0 15c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation:....................................731 ......................729 15d1. Free Distribution by Mail Outside-County as Stated on Form 3541:...396 ......................490 15d2. Free Distribution by Mail In-County as Stated on Form 3541:..........0 ............................0 15d3. Free Distribution by Other Classes Mailed Through USPS: .............0 ............................0 15e. Free Distribution Outside the Mail:...........................................133 (Statehouse) .........0 15f. Total Free Distribution: .........................................................529 ......................490 15g. Total Distribution: ...............................................................1,260 .................1,219 15h. Copies Not Distributed: .........................................................111 .......................81 15i. Total: ...............................................................................1,371 .................1,300 15j. Percent Paid and/or Requested Circulation: .................................58.02%............59.80% 16. Publication of Statement of Ownership: Required. Will be printed in the October 23, 2014, issue of this publication. 17a. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner: Melanie Baillargeon, Director of Communications 17b. Date: 10/06/14 I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false of misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties). For the most current information, visit www.mainechamber.org E2 Tech News... (Continued from Page 22...) Efficiency Maine Executive Director Michael Stoddard. All discussed options available to help ease Mainers’ heating burden and make the right choice “in the heat of the moment.” The goal of the forum was to provide information on the diversity of energy and heating options, their costs and benefits, and potential strategies to provide cost-effective energy resources to Maine’s homes and businesses. Video of the event and presentations are available on the E2Tech website at http://www.e2tech.org/event-1729195. The Waste Hierarchy II: Reduction, Reuse, Recycling and Composting E2Tech hosted an October 16 forum with speakers representing Maine’s top waste management, composting, and biofuels businesses. Panelists explored what is being done to address the topic of the Waste Hierarchy Pyramid: Reduction, Reuse, Recycling, and Composting, with a specific focus on organics. Although recycling paper, plastics, and glass has become second nature to most Mainers, there are operating and proposed efforts underway to further reduce our solid waste stream by diverting organics and residuals from landfills and energy recovery facilities. Casella is providing new technologies and services to manage Maine’s residual waste streams. Garbage to Garden is collecting organic wastes from residences in the Greater Portland area and returning high-quality compost to its customers. Northern Tilth/ecomaine recently completed a comprehensive study to determine the feasibility of collecting residential organic wastes on a larger scale. And, Maine Standard Biofuels is collecting oils and greases and producing biofuels that are being used in heating oil and vehicles for some of Maine’s largest delivery fleets. Video and presentations from this event can be found at http://www.e2tech.org/event-1729181. 10/23/2014 III Impact III 23 Periodicals Postage Paid Lisbon, ME 125 Community Drive, Suite 101 Augusta, Maine 04330-8010 The Maine State Chamber of Commerce invites you to a special event: Federal Health Care Reform: After the Mid-Term Elections and into 2015 Tuesday, December 2, 2014 w 8:00 a.m. to Noon Senator Inn & Spa, Augusta Please join the Maine State Chamber of Commerce for an informative and timely presentation on the status of the national health care reform law, and the forecast for any changes by Congress, and heading into 2015. We will be joined by a panel of experts, local and national, who will provide you with the most up-to-date information on what the future may hold for your business and your employees. You won’t want to miss it! This is a free event but seating is limited so pre-registration is a must! Please email Amy Downing at adowning@mainechamber.org to register. Please see page 18 for details