Chamber holds annual meeting

FARMINGTON – The Franklin County Chamber of Commerce held its 2012 annual meeting Wednesday evening, capping off a tumultuous year with an evening of food, comedy and recognition for local businesses.

More than 100 people turned out for the event, held at the University of Maine at Farmington’s North Dining Hall. Chamber President Scott Landry highlighted the major changes that had swept through the organization in the past year, after declining enrollment the recent resignation of its executive director and an increase in operational costs resulted in the board moving to dissolve the Chamber. Members of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce then voted in April to keep the nonprofit operating, forming committees dedicated to different aspects of the Chamber’s future.

In an effort to cut costs, the Chamber moved into Walmart. The new site will allow for an immediate reduction in the Chamber’s operating expenses through reductions in utility costs, Landry said, even as the organization continues to search for a subletter for its rented office space at 248 Wilton Road. He thanked Walmart, Beeline Cable and Chamber board members for working together to help make the transition happen.

“We’ve got to work together,” Landry said.

The Chamber has held a number of events recently, including two political forums for U.S. Senatorial and Franklin County Sheriff candidates which were widely attended. Next month’s Chester Greenwood Day on Dec. 1 with several events including a parade,  is sponsored and organized by the Chamber and is one of its biggest events.

The Chamber also announced its ‘Business of the Year’ awards. The Large Business of the Year Award went to Barclays, the Small Business of the Year Award went to the Daily Bulldog and the Non-Profit/Club of the Year Award went to Wilton Blueberry Festival Corp. Remarks made about all nine businesses and organizations nominated and recognized by the Chamber were:

Large Business of the Year

Barclays – Widely noted for their dedication to the community, this business donates both time and money towards improving the town they operate in. In 2009 this business was named one of the Retail Center of Excellence’s Best Places to Work in Maine. Recently, they have donated even more time and effort into projects such as the Bass Park and children’s playground in Wilton.

Franklin Savings Bank – This particular company is known throughout the county for its contributions of time and money for the benefit of the community it works in. It seems everywhere that you turn you see their employees out supporting local benefits and events. Their dedication to the community and their time that they invest in the area is reflected around them. Whether it be matching funds for a benefit at the Homestead or building a staircase to connect Downtown Farmington, this company takes community involvement to the next level with everything they do.

Walmart – This company has gone great lengths to ensure that it is not only in the community, but part of the community as well. It has done this through providing donations to local clubs, organizations and even their own employees in order to grow and strengthen the community. Despite its size, many of their employees are known on a first name basis and have been on board since their grand opening.

Small Business of the Year

Daily Bulldog – Without this small business, many of us wouldn’t know what is going on in and around our community. Thanks to these hard working individuals, Franklin County has a place to get news and information that is balanced and truly represents the people of our County. No story is considered too big or small to be covered. Not only do they provide information and news, but they also provide this service free to the community and allow all people to voice their opinions and be heard.

Robin’s Flower Pot – This small business seems to be always giving something back to the community, while providing knowledge and expertise that is top notch. She and her husband have grown their business into the public eye through many methods that all lend to strengthening the community we live in.

Skye Theatre – This business has grown in a few short years to become the premier place to find entertainment that is second to none in Franklin County. Through his hard work, passion and dedication this individual has transformed his business into a venue that hosts over 60 performances a year. Bringing world-renowned entertainment to a small town atmosphere, this business has enabled us to enjoy amazing entertainment at an amazing location. Commonly referred to as the best promoter around, he has brought recognition to Franklin County and works tirelessly to expand and grow both his business and those around him.

Non-Profit/Club of the Year

Healthy Community Coalition – Noted as one of the oldest health coalitions in the county, their mission to measurably improve the well-being of all people in Greater Franklin County and neighboring towns using a coordinated public health approach of education, promotion, and outreach is seen everywhere you turn. From their use of a mobile health unit to worksite wellness initiatives, this organization goes above and beyond to provide Franklin County with the resources we need to grow and stay healthy.

LEAP, Inc. – This organization is well known for their work supporting people with developmental, cognitive, and intellectual disabilities to be actively involved in their home communities. They were an integral part of this year’s ‘Day of Caring’ event where they helped to create an accessible gazebo for people to enjoy, created a community trail system and field maze, and also provided plots at Stone Soup Gardens. No matter the time of year, this organization never takes a holiday.

Wilton Blueberry Festival Corp. – Bringing crowds and businesses to the area for over 30 years, this organization is dedicated to bringing together a whole community for two days each year. Complete with a parade and fireworks, attendance is unmatched county wide each year. This festival takes a full year of planning to pull off and has just recently celebrated its 30th year this past August.