All WE Need Is Love

Dear Friend,  It's Been A Rough Weekend  Stories of hate and anger rage out of control. The streets are filled with bodies, dead, dying, hurting, crying, weeping. It is not a pretty scene. Social media is in a state of chaos. There is a feeling of separation, captivity, an exile into disparate corners. I do not claim to have any answers. Regardless of where you might stand on the issues, I just want to take a minute this morning to share the three most powerful influences in my little world over the past three days.

Martin Luther King, Jr "The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy. Instead of diminishing evil, it spreads it... Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that."  Nelson Mandela "No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite." The Prophet Jeremiah "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have scattered you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile." Did You Know? If each of us turned to one person toward whom we have felt the least bit of hate or anger (or even a little miffedness) and extended a hand of reconciliation, a hug of compassion or a simple word of hope - we would change the world. TODAY!

Dave Southwick

All WE Need Is Love

Dear Friend,  It's Been A Rough Weekend  Stories of hate and anger rage out of control. The streets are filled with bodies, dead, dying, hurting, crying, weeping. It is not a pretty scene. Social media is in a state of chaos. There is a feeling of separation, captivity, an exile into disparate corners. I do not claim to have any answers. Regardless of where you might stand on the issues, I just want to take a minute this morning to share the three most powerful influences in my little world over the past three days.

Martin Luther King, Jr "The ultimate weakness of violence is that it is a descending spiral, begetting the very thing it seeks to destroy. Instead of diminishing evil, it spreads it... Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that."  Nelson Mandela "No one is born hating another person because of the color of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite." The Prophet Jeremiah "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back from captivity. I will gather you from all the nations and places where I have scattered you," declares the Lord, "and will bring you back to the place from which I carried you into exile." Did You Know? If each of us turned to one person toward whom we have felt the least bit of hate or anger (or even a little miffedness) and extended a hand of reconciliation, a hug of compassion or a simple word of hope - we would change the world. TODAY!

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

40 Mile Circle

Dear Friend,  Sphere of Influence  Take a map and draw a circle around your business or organization, let's say a circle with a radius of 40 miles. Notice something about that circle? Sure it reaches into most of Franklin and Grand Isle counties and a good chunk of Lamoille and Chittenden counties as well. But a good third of that circle is cut off by the US-Canadian border (another big chunk is in the lake and NY). So without a passport or an enhanced driver's license a large part of your sphere of influence goes untapped.

One New Friend I may have mentioned this before so forgive me, but I made it a goal that as soon as the snow and ice cleared in 2016 I was going to make one new friend north of the border. I was going to wander across and find one person I could have lunch with. Why? Because as enticing as having great cross border relationships with Montreal might sound - it is a far reach. Why not meet a next door neighbor? Good News For the past month or so, a team of Franklin County folks have been reaching across the border and making new friends. To date we have had four home and away visits and we are making friends one handshake at a time. The good news, I now have at least 20 new friends I can can call by name. And we all agree that this is a good thing for businesses on both sides of the border. We are working on bringing our new friends to town so that you can meet them and so they can see what you are up to. Ne Parle Pas Francais? Neither do I. Big deal. Can you say Bonjour or Merci? You have got a great start. I have found that if you just make one small effort - Bingo - the doors swing wide open. Want to learn more? Well good thing, cause that is how this county rocks. CCV is offering a French class for people who want to learn conversational French in a business or tourism setting. I mean how cool, not to mention, timely? I will now be able to say something a bit more relevant than "Ma mere est dans la cuisine." Sign Up Today 40 Mile Circle My 40 mile circle is starting to fill out. Join me in the adventure. Did You Know? The Canada-United States border (French: Frontière entre le Canada et les États-Unis), officially known as the International Boundary, is the longest international border in the world. Established by no less than nine international treaties, it is commonly referred to as the world's longest undefended border. Just try crossing it without reporting and you'll see just how undefended it is!

Dave Southwick

Grants, Grant, Grants

Dear Friend,  How Come That Money Doesn't Come My Way? Ever wonder why the grant opportunities that cross your desk never quite match what you are looking for? Does it seen like every grant is written for someone other than you and your organization? Are you getting discouraged with the whole funding scene? Well, have I got a deal for you!!!

CVNHP A couple of years ago, we were approached by the Champlain Valley National Heritage Partnership to serve as a Regional Stakeholder Coordinator for the CVNHP grant program. That means that we are directed to identify organizations within Franklin County who might be interested in grant monies the CVNHP receives from the Lake Champlain Basin Program - think; history, conservation, education, commerce and community. Things that are important to most of us. The Cool Part So this is where it gets fun. Once we have identified interested groups - we invite them to a party! And at that party - you get to tell the CVNHP coordinators how you would like to see the LCBP money spent in the future. I know you are thinking that's the fun part but wait for it... then they listen and actually write down every one of your ideas. I know, right? Could It Get Any Cooler? These parties take place on all three sides of the lake; NY, VT & QC. Once all the ideas are collected, the regional stakeholder coordinators and other LCBP/CVNHP steering committee members gather to review and rank your ideas. And I can tell you that they all get looked at. Some float to the top and get approved for grantshipdom, while others that fall a bit short might get shelved for another time and place. But again, every idea gets attention. Oh yeah, then, these grant opportunities show up on your desk and they look more appealing and a whole lot more like your organization - you apply for them and the rest is history or conservation or education, you get the picture. How Do I Sign Up? The next Stakeholders meeting is June 14th - Click Here for all the Details. Did You Know? In 2015, the LCBP awarded the CVNHP $37,948 for eight Local Heritage Grants and $25,000 for five Conservation & Community Grants.  Read More

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

Global Big Day = STEM

Dear Friend,  Global Big Day = STEM, WHAT? OK, stick with me, I am going to get to a point or you can jump ahead and read the punch line. Definitions: in the bird watching (birding) world a "Big <insert period of time>" is the total number of different species of birds you see in that period. For example, a Big Year is all the different birds you see in a year. See the movie. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math - an educational movement to increase our student's involvement and interest in these disciplines. Now here we go!

Birding This past Saturday, May 14th was designated as the Global Big Day. Which you now understand to mean, that it is a single day where birders from around the globe (Global) record all the different birds they see. That's a lot of binoculars. Results: 13,869 people turned in 36,945 check lists, identifying 5,826 different birds. And I helped. I checked out my backyard feeders, then joined a group at the St. Albans Town Forest and then drove around a bit. All told, I saw (or heard) 46 different birds, including a Yellow-rumped Warbler - while not necessarily rare, is certainly fun to say.  STEM Two days earlier, I was able to attend the STEM Challenge Initiative Recognition Night. This is a gathering of students, teachers and local businesses who are expanding STEM awareness in our area. We saw creative, bright students celebrate their projects and accomplishments. We listened as energetic, enthusiastic educators shared their ideas for engaging more students in STEM. We applauded the business leaders for their contribution to this wonderful movement. And, we gave a standing ovation to Christine Depatie, from the Swanton Elementary School, as she was handed the Mary S. Babcock Award for Excellence in all things STEM. Dena St. Amour, Swanton principal, described Ms. Depatie as "a cross between Miss Frizzle and Bill Nye the Science Guy." I was impressed that she is getting elementary students to turn off the lights. A BIG STEM Night.  Punch Line: The Connection Tim Smith, Chair of the STEM Challenge Initiative, warned that next year the number of STEM challenge project entries would be greater and that the number of students participating would jump and that the number of educators would multiply. Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Yes, a GLOBAL STEM BIG DAY! Could you imagine a night where we celebrated 5,826 different STEM initiatives. Now we're talking. Did You Know? In 2012, 7.4 million employees reported working in a STEM-related field. By 2018, we could be expected to see more than 8.6 million people pursuing careers in STEM, not counting those that are self-employed. Fun facts: Mechanical engineering is the #1 major chosen by students who want to pursue a career in STEM. American Indians have the highest interest compared to other minorities in STEM subjects and careers. Females who show an interest in STEM studies choose to focus more on science education.

Dave Southwick

Spring Has Sprung

Dear Friend,  Know How I Know Spring Is Here? The same way you do. Ice is out, flowers are beginning to pop, mud, construction, a cacophony of bird songs (I stole that one from the Bird Diva), sunny days, warmth on my face, plow is put away (it's off the truck), graduation invitations, white legs, bicycle is in the shop, walked outside today and THE VT MAPLE FESTIVAL is in town. Got Maple? Check out all these other Spring Activities.

How About Those Young Professionals? Last week 20-30, 20-40 yos, took over Guy's Yard and Farm and knocked it out of the park. There is a tremendous amount of great energy being generated by this generation. They are hooking up, asking tough questions, talking solutions and making super noises for their home area. Get on board with this group - they are for real. Read more  Spring Mixer You have been wearing that parka and you have been cooped up since October. Check out BodySoul Massage this afternoon for the Chamber Mixer. Any business with Hope as an owner and Healing in their name has to be awesome. Come on by, meet some new people, share a bite and sip, see what Hope and her team have to offer and take home a soulful door prize. Tonight, 5:30, 375 Lake Road. Pay at the door. Annual Dinner One sure sign of Spring around this Chamber office is the frenzied preparation for the Annual Awards Dinner. I gotta tell ya, Lisamarie and her team go above and beyond to make this a special evening. Great decorations, fabulous food, not your ordinary silent auctions (that's right plural), awards for our incredible members and a "whoa, did I just hear that?" guest speaker. Oh yea, and I wear a coat and tie! Great opportunity for a selfie with the ED. Don't wait, Spring does not last that long. Details   Did You Know? I was the first to hear the 2016 Vermont Maple Festival Window Display winners. That almost never happens. Spoiler alert! 3rd Place - What a Yarn & Antiques; 2nd Place - Eaton's Fine Jewelry; and (drum roll please) your 2016 VMFWD Champion is: RAIL CITY SALON. woo hoo....

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

The Vermont Futures Project

Dear Friend, Data, Data, Data I teach an Applied Math Concepts course on the St. Albans campus of CCV. A rewarding and interesting pursuit. One of the sections we dip into is Statistics. In my experience you either love statistics or your hate 'em. I have never met anyone who says "Oh Stats, yeah, well, they're OK." Me, I love stats. Give me a graph or a pile of data and I can keep myself amused.

Why Is Data Important to Vermont? Let me introduce you to The Vermont Futures Project, a collaboration based on the collection of data that can help us see into and plan for the future. Here is what they have to say about themselves. The Vermont Futures Project believes that we need a carefully thought out vision for an economic future which provides opportunity for everyone, as they define it, grows in productivity, and yields tax revenue sufficient to meet our shared goals of fairness, environmental strength, and compassion.  The Vermont Futures Project was launched by the Vermont Chamber Foundation to build a shared vision for the  economy in collaboration with partner organizations, academic institutions, and thought leaders. We are setting a course toward a vibrant economic future through research, policy development and long-term strategies in order to realize that vision. The Vermont Futures Project is committed to addressing the challenges facing Vermont in workforce, demographics, productivity, industrial mix, and infrastructure. The Vermont Futures Project believes that Vermonters need a shared vision about the economy - one that is as strong as the vision we share for environment and for our social safety net.  Why Should I Be Interested? (Hint: answer is in bold) That's a great question and it will be on the quiz. In my opinion, data is most useful when the focus of that data hit closest to home. So, in order to get greater input from our home, "The Vermont Futures Project is convening a statewide discussion series regarding the future of Vermont with a goal of enhancing and sustaining a robust and growing economy.  We invite you to join us at the Swanton Village Municipal office Building on Wednesday, May 4, 2016 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM to join in this work." Register with Tim Smith at 524-2194 or Tim@fcidc.com or Kathy Lavoie at Kathy.Lavoie2@myfairpoint.net or 802-782-1924. BTW, I'll be there.   Did You Know? That 86% of all statistics are made up.

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

The Power of Powerful Storytelling

Dear Friend, Tell Me A Story For the past year, we have been promoting conversation and storytelling as a way of growing community. People sharing about their roots, their struggles, their successes and their dreams are all part of growing movement to increase community awareness and to promote social capital. Community Matters Breakfasts, Conversation Cafe's, 63 Seconds of Unabashed Self-Promotion and Curbside Chats are all safe places to share a story.

Have We Got A Story for You! Each year, The Franklin County Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts their Annual Awards Dinner. This year it is on Friday, May 6 at the American Legion Hall in St. Albans. Doors open at 5:00 pm.  The Chamber is thrilled to welcome humanitarian, physician and author Dr. Dilip Joseph as our guest storyteller for the evening. Dr. Joseph has spent considerable time working in Afghanistan, bringing training, aid and education to families who have no access to medical treatment or facilities.  In 2012, he was kidnapped and held hostage by Taliban insurgents, and was ultimately rescued in a daring mission led by Navy Seal Team Six. In 2014, Dr. Joseph put a pen to his story and wrote of his ordeal in his first book, "Kidnapped by the Taliban - A Story of Terror, Hope, and Rescue by SEAL Team Six."  Dr. Joseph has been speaking about his experience, what it taught him, and how it has formed his future work as a physician and humanitarian. I might add that his work spans developing and established countries, providing internships and work experience in public health and clinical medicine. He is most interested in incorporating his medical experience into positive and proactive endeavors in developing nations. I Don't Think You Are Going to Want to Miss This One Spoiler Alert, when I first heard Dr. Joseph speak, I could not breath for 45 minutes.  Tickets On Sale NOW! Hors-d'oeuvres & cocktails; Buffet dinner catered by Twiggs; Cash bar. Admission is $45 per person or $320 for tables of 8 people. Online reservations are available at www.fcrccvt.com. You may also reserve your seats in person at the Chamber Office.  Did You Know? The Chamber will also be recognizing the following businesses and individuals for their amazing contribution to Franklin County. Outstanding Large Business of the Year - Peoples Trust Company. Outstanding Small Business of the Year - Champlain Insuring. Tim Bovat Civic Involvement Award - Peter Garceau. Rising Star Award - Grunts Move Junk. Come on out and help celebrate the celebrated.

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

The Hunt for Red Hot Jobs

Dear Friend,

Deep Dark Sea
This weekend I happened upon the tension filled thriller, The Hunt for Red October. A collection of wonderful actors cast in the role of underwater hunt and be hunted. And while I am not sure there is a tight correlation, I sense that looking for jobs is a lot like floating around in the deep dark sea hunting for that right moment to connect with just the right employer. All the time, armed with nothing but a good sonar system.

Up Periscope!
What if we were to bring the whole game up to periscope depth and let you have a good look around at all the players and all the possibilities? What if we were to add professional translators to help you negotiate the foreign languages of a new industry? What if we threw in some trainers to help mold your skills? Hunting for a job might not seen like swimming around in the dark any more. That's the beauty of a Career/Job Expo. Read more on the 18th Annual Franklin Region Career/Job Expo. 

Will I Get to Sink a Sub?
There are a dedicated group of volunteers, in our community, who work very hard to provide employers and job seekers with an opportunity to check each other out right there in the wide open. Ask questions, explore possibilities and in some cases touch and feel the products and services. While you might not launch any torpedoes, I guarantee that you will get up close and personal with your target. 75+ businesses and organizations paired with schools of students and job seekers make for the right climate for scoring a direct hit. OK, now I am all out of submarine analogies - so just get there: Thursday, March 31 - Collins-Perley Sports Complex. Students in the morning, adults in the afternoon. I'll see you in the shallows.

Did You Know?
There were 3.6 million job openings at the end of 2012. About 80% of available jobs are never advertised. What do employers look for before making an offer? About 36% look for multitasking skills; 31% look for initiative; 21% look for creative thinking; and 12% look for something else in the candidate. And, on average, interviews last 40 minutes. After that, it usually takes 24 hours to two weeks to hear from the company with their decision.

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.  

Dave Southwick

March 2016 Potpourri

Dear Friend, Celebration! The town of Swanton did it up right last Wednesday night with there Swanton Enhancement Project Celebration. In the words of co-coordinator Molly Lambert, "The videos, the greeters, the balloons, the food, the display boards, beautiful art pieces, the flowers, the fantastic elementary school and the wonderful musicians - combined for a fantastic gathering for our fantastic community." Check out what this town is up to - join a working group.  Safe Work Places are Happy Work Places We are fortunate to have Ric Lavalley in our community. He is a specialist in workplace safety and can help make your space a safe place. Join us this Thursday for Strategies for Success at the St. Albans Free Library to hear Ric share a few tips on workplace safety. We all can learn something this week. All seminars are free for Chamber members and $10 for guests. Click HERE for more details.  Annual Dinner Pre-Announcement Once a year we gather to share a meal, recognize area businesses, hear motivational speakers and hang out with friends. The Annual Chamber Awards Dinner is one of those rare chances to gussy up and enjoy the evening. Formal invitations are on their way so I won't steal any of Lisamarie's thunder, but I wanted you to save the date (Friday, May 6th) and begin to make preparations. Our guest speaker has an incredible story to share - you do not want to miss this guy. There is still time to add your name to the sponsor list. This is a major fundraiser for the Chamber and we need your help. Read More on how to Invest in the Chamber.   Did You Know? North Dakota has the most golf courses, churches and honey per capita of all states. The Fargo-Moorhead area has been designated as the flattest terrain on EARTH! More people need North Dakota to complete their collection of all 50 states than any other state. And, my list is now complete. What did you do this weekend?  Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.   Dave Southwick

"Smoke"

Dear Friend,

But, I Never Inhaled...
Fueling the 60's, helping forget the 70's, clouding the 80's, waxing and waning through the 90's and screaming into the new millennium. Marijuana, Pot, Weed, Grass, 420, Ganga, Dope, Herb, Joint, Blunt, Cannabis, Reefer, Mary Jane, by any other name, an ongoing, multi-faceted, controversy. 

For or Against Legalization - Question #1
The political playing field on which the legalization of marijuana plays out its drama looks as if it has been lined by too many officials. One set uses red (or hopefully, black) representing the states economy; a second set uses green, the color of healthy choices; another in the beige of anti-prohibition and the final set uses uniform blue as a concern for public and personal safety. A confusing field of play none-the-less. Each has its own logic, its own supporters and its own distractors. Not such an easy question to answer, is it? BTW, S95 did pass in the Senate and is now in the House. Regardless of the final legislative outcome, this issue begs a second question.

Good for You or Not Good for You - Question #2
Of the four angles pitched on our imaginary playing field you can find ample room to debate three - is this good or bad for the economy, is it right or wrong to regulate the use, and is it easy or difficult (costly) to enforce and detect. The fourth question, is it healthy (non-harmful)? is all in the science. What does the research say? I'm not the pot doc so I can't answer this question. But I do agree with others that the only way that we can wrap our minds around this cloudy issue is through solid education. So I encourage us all to "git learnt!" 

Where, When?
Glad you asked. Whether you are a parent, business, educator, clinician, chamber member or all of the above - you need to get the facts. This is where I am going to learn more: Monday, March 7th, 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm in the Swanton Village Complex. This working forum will present the current state of knowledge on marijuana, its effects and biology, as well as the methods of screening and intervention being adopted to identify and treat problems associated with its use. Free, open to the public. Be there. Registration requested, HERE

Did You Know?
Cheech and Chong...

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.  

Dave Southwick

Investing

Dear Friend,

2016 - A Year of Investing and Strengthening
As we sat down to draw up our goals and objectives for 2016, two themes came to the forefront. We must continue to Invest in our Community and work hard to Strengthen our Relationships. Goals well worth pursuing.

What Does Investment Look Like?
I went back over my calendar for the past several months. As I review the different community functions we either attend or committees we belong to, it is clear that the one of the primary functions of the Chamber staff is to represent its members. No matter where we are, we are representing the members of the Chamber, looking out for the things that matter most to them. While we are entitled to our own opinion, we very seldom lead with our personal concerns. Most often we invest our time in being the voice of others.

So Where Have I Been?
Here's a list of events and meetings we have attended lately:

• Brownfields Steering Committee
• Swanton Enhancement Committee
• Enosburg Business Association
• Franklin County Community Partnership
• St. Albans Town Legislative Hearing
• St. Albans Town Zoning Hearings
• Franklin Grand Isle Workforce Investment Board Steering Committee
• Northwest Tech Center Cooperative Education Steering Committee
• NWTC Conversation Cafe'
• Northern Vermont Economic Development District Board
• Community Committee on Healthy Lifestyles
• Hunger Council of Franklin County
• Legislative Session with Franklin County Law Enforcement
• Swanton Legislative Breakfast
• Vermont Association of Chamber Executives
• Career/Job Expo Planning Committee
• Swanton Chamber of Commerce
• Vermont-Quebec Trade Luncheon
• St. Albans Downtown Committee
• Franklin County Animal Rescue BOD
• FCIDC Manufacturers' Mixer
• Filming Franklin County Focus
• National Night Out in Taylor Park
• Champlain Valley Natural Heritage Partners International Summit
• Community Matters Breakfasts

Honey, It's Time for Dinner!
When we first accepted this job, one of the Board members approached my wife and said; "He's going to be out a bit!" The good news is, I'm home for dinner more often than not. The way I look at it, time is one of those valuable assets that we can Invest in our Community.

How Can You Help?
You can join me at a meeting or two. You can invite me to your meeting. And, you can invest in your Regional Chamber so we can continue to invest right back into our communities. Join or Renew today. We'll make it easy - Click Here

Did You Know?
Chris Mead says it this way (kinda - I paraphrase...), "Chambers came into existence primarily to safeguard and extend opportunities for businesses. In the past century, the role of the Chamber has broadened from targeting the needs of businesses to promoting community-wide initiatives. The Chamber of Commerce has morphed, to some extent, into a Chamber of Community." I think I agree. Coming dear...

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for investing your support in the Chamber in your community.  

Dave Southwick

We're From The Government...

Dear Friend,

...And We are Here to Help.
It never gets old. Saturday with our U.S. Congressman and City Mayor and Monday with a half a dozen of our County Legislators. We are so fortunate to live in a state and community where we have the opportunity for personal, one-on-one, genuine conversations with our elected officials. All differences aside, when you have the chance to talk face to face with your government you have a much better feeling that they do care and that they are here to help. 

So, What Did You Hear at the Traveled Cup?
Saturday morning, I asked Peter Welch, U.S. Congressman for the State of Vermont, "What is happening at the Federal level that will have a direct impact on Franklin County?" And while he couldn't point to anything that was "earmarked" for Franklin County, he did offer up the efforts surrounding the Transportation Bills that will improve our infrastructure and long term support for the state. And as most of us know, transportation is at the root of many of our employment issues. He also acknowledged the funding efforts that have supported the Downtown Enhancement Projects in St. Albans.

St. Albans City Mayor, Liz Gamache, shared the vision for the expansion of the streetscape project on Kingman and Lake Streets along with the plans for an improved Federal Street corridor. Funding is in place and construction will start with the warm weather. In addition, we can anticipate an major sidewalk and curb project to coincide with the repaving of the main thoroughfares. 

And they make a great cup of coffee at the Traveled Cup.

Monday in the NWTC Hideaway, How'd that Go?
February is National CTE month - but you already knew that didn't you? Career & Technical Education Month is a celebration of the achievements of our CTE centers, formerly known as tech centers. The NWTC had invited our County Legislative team for a Conversation in the Hideaway. I really like that place. 

Our representatives were keenly interested in how things are going and what barriers keep us from filling local jobs with local talent. Fine tuning curriculum, understanding job requirements and teasing apart the application process are areas that the NWTC sees as the critical paths to success. The legislators agreed. I truly appreciate the depth of the questions they ask, the compassion they exhibit while listening carefully and the pages of notes they take during these encounters. These elected officials care. 

What Is Next?
Glad you asked. There is no shortage of opportunities for you to get your opinions heard. Check out this schedule:

• Mon., Feb 15, 6-7:00 pm. St. Albans Town Education Center. Public Hearing for Franklin County on the 2017 State Budget. Public encouraged to attend.
• Wed., Feb 17, 12-1 pm. Ethan Allen Room at the Statehouse, Legislative Discussion on the Senate marijuana bill with law enforcement. Public invited to attend.
• Sat., Feb 20, 8-9:30 am. Legislative breakfast at the Enosburg American Legion. Public invited to attend and participate in discussion.
• Mon., Mar 14, 8-9:30 am. Legislative breakfast, Bliss Room, St. Albans. Public required to attend (jk, encouraged).

Did You Know?
The definition of an Australian Ballot: a ballot containing the names of all the candidates for public office, printed and handed to the voter at the polling station to be marked in secret: so called because it originated in Australia. Ah, no kidding, you were hoping for something a bit more entertaining and mysterious, I know I was.

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for your continued support of the Chamber in your community.  

Dave Southwick

10" Plates

Dear Friend, Tasted Good! Hats off to the In Good Taste team for pulling off another great event with wonderful food, an evening with friends, a very comfortable setting (given the circumstances) and 10" plates. Yep, 10" plates!

A 10" Plate, You Say? A year or two ago, a group of forward thinking planners decided to start collecting 10" dinner plates to be used at community events. The thought was that each member would start canvasing the local flea markets, yard sales and discount outlets and buy up all the dinner plates they could find. Then, when there was a community event that was serving food, you break out the plates. Saving the environment of hundreds of paper or plastic dishes, saving the landfills and showing a greener, gentler side of the community. And so far it seems to be doing just that. There Has to Be More To It Than That... Well, yes, in a sidebar conversation with Tim Smith the other day, he pointed out that the 10" plates are more than just reusable dinnerware. He has observed that people take their time picking out just the right plate for their personal meal. Each plate carrying a certain lure for its soon to be diner. Some pick by color, some by design, some by the perceived volume of food it will carry (large or small), some by a small blemish or nick and most by a deep nostalgic memory of another time. But each choice is as unique as the individual making it.  Unique Plates + Unique Individuals = Great Community And as these unique diners mingle, with their prized plate mounded with finely crafted food, they make up the greatness that is a community. A community of individuals, as different as the plates they carry, coming together to share a meal, compassion, ideas, humor and good ole' conversation. All the while reminding us not to take each other, or our 10" plates, for granted. Coming together as one. A future we can all agree on. Did You Know? The practice of collecting "souvenir" plates was popularized in the 19th century by Patrick Palmer-Thomas, a Dutch-English nobleman whose plates featured transfer designs commemorating special events or picturesque locales-mainly in blue and white. It was an inexpensive hobby, and the variety of shapes and designs catered to a wide spectrum of collectors. Read more.

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for your continued support of the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

Conversation Cafe'

Dear Friend, Conversations, conversations, conversations Last year we hosted a series of Community Matters conversations, this year we decided to take the talk to the kids. Yesterday we collaborated with the Northwest Technical Center to offer their students an opportunity to converse with members of the business community. What happened next - unbelievable!

Conversation Cafe' Lisa Durocher and her team had heard about the concept of a Conversation Cafe' at at conference they attended last year. Fast forward, we have a room full of NWTC medical professions students sitting at tables hosted by real live medical professionals from around town and they are talking. I mean no cell phones, no headphones, no distractions - just face to face, down to earth, are you kidding me conversations. People were jazzed. And I didn't even have time to offer up an introduction or explanation - they just took off.  What Did They Talk About? I honestly don't know. We gave them topics to discuss if the conversation lulled but that never happened. From the feedback I received from some of the table hosts, the kids shared their dream jobs and goals for the near future and the table hosts shared how they got to where they were today. Real life to real life. Just talking. And in the end, there were handshakes and hugs. I think they liked it. What's Next, You Ask? Well, we have two more Conversation Cafes' scheduled for the NWTC. In March we are hosting a Human Services day and in April we will be looking at Digital Arts & Video. If you'd like to be part of the conversation, contact the Chamber or Lisa Durocher at NWTC. We'll save you a spot at the table. And Chef makes the best croissants. What to host one at your school - give me a call, I'll share what we know. You Mentioned Community Matters Breakfast Aw yes I did, people sharing stories with people, generating social capital - a great success in 2015. We will bring these back for 2016 starting in May. If you would like to host a breakfast let me know - they go fast. Did You Know? Social Capital is a local phenomenon defined by connections among people who know one another. It is neighbors communicating with neighbors. It takes person-to-person contact over time to build relationships steeped in trust and mutual understanding. We can all use more of that good stuff.

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for your continued support of the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

Gifts

Dear Friends ,   What Are Your Gifts? While reading a message this morning, I was reminded that we are all outfitted with a unique set of gifts. Hands-on skills, personality traits, physical attributes, intellectual talents or just plain, raw, unabashed know-how. We are all good at something(s). But more importantly, these gifts are not for us alone. In order for us to truly recognize the beauty of our gifts, we must give them away.

Connections  Last week I shared that "A Chamber of Commerce is made up of members. We are a collection of individuals working together for the betterment of all." So to take that a step further, as a community we depend on one another and the unique gifts we each bring to the bigger picture. The Chamber gets calls every day - looking for people with a unique set of skills that they call on to help them in their situation. Members Helping Members (Reprise) Maybe your gift is education or legislation. Maybe you are good at finances, construction, plumbing, crafts, medicine. Maybe you are a farmer, chef, public servant, fitness expert. Maybe you are a hospitality specialist, florist, dentist, candlestick maker. Or as my mom would say, maybe you are the chief bottle washer. You have a special gift. Reach out and share it with someone. A Chamber is members willing to give of their gifts. First mixer this Thursday at People's Trust on Kingman Street. Come on out and let your gifts shine! Did You Know? The Dam Store on the Georgia/Milton line is under new management and offering up an awesome deli menu. If your travels take you that way, stop in and say hi to Rob. And yes, I know, Clemson came in second in the NCAA Football Championship. I'm OK!

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for your continued support of the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick

Members Helping Members

Happy New Year!

Dear Friend ,   What Can We Do for Others? 2016 is a year of giving. How can we do more for those around us? How can we help our neighbor? How can we help the businesses in our town? How can we make a difference? Franklin County is moving in a prosperous direction. Our towns are growing in civic pride and people are taking notice. Now it is time to make sure we take care of each other.

Member to Member Services  A Chamber of Commerce is made up of members. We are a collection of individuals working together for the betterment of all. Each member contributing to the growth of the whole. Members helping members. For 2016, we are expanding the Chamber offerings by enhancing our Member Information Center. The Member Information Center (MIC) is an electronic clearing house of sorts, a Chamber oriented help center. Each member has their own secure access to the MIC and can promote their services, start conversations, post jobs, announce events and share member to member discounts. Of course, the world is already filled with numerous places that do these things so why do we need another one?   Members Helping Members The MIC is the one place where you know everybody and you all share a common purpose - to promote commerce, tourism and culture in Franklin County and beyond. You are surrounded by your peers. It is a unique place where you know everything contained in it is for the good of your neighborhood. Check it out. If you have received your 2016 renewal letter, you will see that it included MIC credentials. If not, head over to the Chamber Website and you can create your own credentials. Having trouble - give us a call. In the mean time, I'd encourage everyone to think of one Member to Member discount or service you could promote to get the 2016 ball rolling. Did You Know? At 8:30 tonight the Clemson University Tigers and the University of Alabama Crimson Tide will be playing for the NCAA College Football National Championship. All of my money and three of my children have attended Clemson University. Go Tigers!!!

Please make a Chamber membership part of your success strategy. Join or Renew Today. And, thank you for your continued support of the Chamber in your community.

Dave Southwick