ASSOCIATE NEWSLETTER
FEBRUARY PHOTO OF THE MONTH Congrats to Sarah, submit your photo for a chance to win a $25 gift card SUBMIT TO SUBMITNEWS.ADAMSPG.COM.
Skiing at 11,000 ft., Snowbird, Utah Sarah Mast, The High Road Agency
FEBRUARY 2022
CONTENTS
SUBMIT YOUR PHOTO & WIN! Submit a photo to be featured in the monthly newsletter. Each month, the person whose photo is selected for the front cover will win a $25 gift card! SUBMIT TO SUBMITNEWS.ADAMSPG.COM.
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FEBRUARY 2022 NEWSLETTER
Human Resources
APG East
APG Central
APG West
BENEFITS CONTACTS, UPDATED POLICIES, CPR RESOURCES
CHRISTMAS PARADE, JOB FAIR, AWARDS GALAS, JOE BURROW
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH, MOVING, LIGHTING UP MAIN STREET
PHILANTHROPY, CHRISTMAS
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WEST DIVISION
Regions: Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming
CENTRAL DIVISION
Regions: Minnesota, Wisconsin
EAST DIVISION
Regions: Michigan, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Georgia, Florida West Division Central Division East Division
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HUMAN RESOURCES
2022 BENEFITS CONTACTS WELCOME
THÉRÉSE ZADNIK-KLECKER Thérése Zadnik-Klecker joined Adam’s Publishing in January 2022 and serves as the Regional Human Resources Manager for APG’s East Central Minnesota Region. Zadnik-Klecker comes to Adam’s with a variety of leadership, operations and human resources experiences. She has been the Start-Up Director for three successful Charter K-12 schools in the North Metro area during the last decade where she worked as the Director of Operations/ Human Resources Manager. Zadnik-Klecker graduated from Spring Arbor University, MI, with a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Organizational Development. She also earned an AA degree in Computer Software Applications from Stautzenberger College in OH. Zadnik-Klecker resides in Andover with her husband and two children. Her passion outside of work is competitive racquetball! She holds several National and US Open Racquetball Championship titles.
401(K) NEWS The contribution limits for the 401(k) plan have increased for 2022. For those looking to max out their 401(k)s in 2022, as employees, you can contribute $20,500—an increase of $1,000. For workers over the age of 50, the catchup 401(k) contribution is still the same with an additional $6,500 per year to a maximum of $27,000 per year.
MEDICAL PLAN
PHARMACY PLAN
DOCTOR ON DEMAND
DENTAL AND ORTHODONTICS
Express Scripts (ESI) www.express-scripts.com (800) 282-2881, available 24/7 Doctor on Demand www.DoctorOnDemand.com/bluecrossmn MetLife www.metlife.com 1-800-942-0854
VISION
EYEMED www.eyemed.com Customer Service 1-866-804-0982
HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNT
Further www.hellofurther.com Customer Service 1-800-859-2144
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT GROUP TERM LIFE, SHORT TERM DISABILITY, LONG TERM DISABILITY ACCIDENT, CRITICAL ILLNESS, AND HOSPITAL INDEMNITY INSURANCES
WEX https://www.wexinc.com/solutions/benefits/ 866-451-3399 Mon-Fri 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. CST Lincoln Financial Group www.lfg.com 1-800-423-2765 Voya Financial www.voya.com 1-888-238-4840, 9 am to 6:30 pm EST, Mon-Fri
EAP (EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM)
Employee Connect www.GuidanceResources.com 1-888-628-4824 (web ID = Lincoln ) Username: LFGsupport Password: LFGsupport1
TRAVEL ASSISTANCE SERVICES
TravelConnect 1-800-527-0218 US Toll-free; 1-410-453-6330 Toll-free Global Emergency Response Center
GRIEF COUNSELING, FINANCIAL SERVICES, LEGAL SUPPORT, COMPREHENSIVE SERVICES
LifeKeys www.GuidanceResources.com 1-855-891-3684
401(K) APG REWARDS PLAN
Transamerica Retirement Solutions https://my.trsretire.com 1-800-755-5801
PET INSURANCE, AND LEGAL PLANS
www.metlife.com/mybenefits 1-800-GET-MET8 (1-800-438-6388)
ID THEFT
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Blue Cross Blue Shield — Minnesota www.bluecrossmnonline.com 1-866-465-7012, 7 am to 8 pm CST (Mon-Fri)
1-844-698-8640
HUMAN RESOURCES
UPDATED POLICIES
MASK/TESTING/INFECTIOUS DISEASE Effective Monday November 22, 2021 all APG Associates who have been fully vaccinated (if your shot was a one shot vaccination or a two shot vaccination), including individuals who have received a Booster shot, may no longer need to wear a mask in APG facilities (unless otherwise mandated by your individual state requirements). If local market conditions escalate the Regional President has the ability to institute a FULL MASK policy for all Associates and to close the facility to the public. Unvaccinated Associates will still be required TO WEAR A MASK until they can prove to their supervisors, they have been fully vaccinated (unless otherwise mandated by your individual state requirements). If you have received the Booster Shot, please upload your updated Vaccination Card to vaccard@adamspg.com 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
All Associates will receive a day off in order to receive their vaccination and/or Booster shot. All Associates, whether vaccinated or not vaccinated, should still remain six feet away from your co-worker and follow all other procedures we currently have in place. All Associates who test positive may return to work after 5 days with a negative Rapid/PCR test, or after a 10-day quarantine without a follow-up test (subject to applicable law). Unvaccinated Associates who travel outside the state, must produce a negative Covid Rapid/PCR test prior to re-entry to any APG building (subject to applicable law). Associates who fail to comply with the requirements of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment, subject to applicable law. See Associate Handbook: Section 5.1 Standards of Conduct Unacceptable conduct may subject the offender to disciplinary action, up to and including discharge, in the Company’s sole discretion. The Company will deal with each situation individually and nothing in this handbook should be construed as a promise of specific treatment in each situation. However, Adams Publishing Group will endeavor to utilize progressive discipline, but reserves the right in its sole discretion to discharge an Associate at any time for any reason. The observance of these rules will help to ensure that our workplace remains a safe and desirable place to work.
Adams Publishing Group strongly encourages vaccinations but understands it is a personal choice only you, the Associate, can make. Associates are encouraged not to come to work sick. All other safety measures remain the same: • Frequent handwashing and use of sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) • Covering coughs and sneezes • Practice social distancing – keep 3 to 6 feet apart • Continued regular sanitization of office and production facilities • The Company understands and will comply with applicable law regarding collective bargaining related to this policy as it relates to Associates covered by a collective bargaining agreement or who are represented by a union. Updated January 14, 2022
WELCOME
MICHELE WATERS Michele recently accepted the position as HR Director of APG Media of Chesapeake, Ohio and Michigan where she will spend time in both Ohio and Maryland each month working with the respective teams. She joins APG with extensive knowledge in human resources, payroll and talent acquisition. Most recently Michele held the post of Corporate Human Resources and Payroll Manager at Sea Watch International in Easton, MD. Michele also possesses talent acquisition experience from Express Personnel and Personnel Resources Group located throughout the Eastern Shore of Maryland. Michele’s undergraduate studies include Human Resource Management from the University of Phoenix Online Campus. Michele is pursuing her Masters Degree in Human Resource Management from George Washington University Online Campus commencing in 2022. Michele, her husband Olandas and their daughter Malayah reside in Cambridge, MD where Michele has resided most of her life. She is a proud Viking, graduating from Cambridge South Dorchester High School where she was heavily involved in extracurricular activities including Girls State, Student Council, Mock Trial, and the It’s Academic team. In her adult years, she has been a dedicated parent volunteer with the PTO organizations, a volunteer Troop Leader with Girl Scouts of Chesapeake, Dorchester AYF Cheer Association and Dorchester Little League Girls Softball. Prior to residing in Cambridge, MD she held dual residency in the Netherlands and the United States of America.
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SAFETY
SAFETY
CPR SAVES LIVES
Like many of us, you may have let your CPR Certification lapse during the pandemic due to the uncertainties of remaining safe. Or perhaps you would like to learn CPR for the first time but unsure of where to learn more about this vital life-saving training. With options such as Hands-Only CPR, and online training available through the American Red Cross, and other training agencies you have the ability to make a difference for friends, family, co-workers, and others. Be sure to access the links provided at the end of this article for more information and training options. INTRODUCTION Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is an unexpected loss of heart function, breathing and consciousness. When SCA occurs, blood stops flowing to the brain, heart and the rest of the body. SCA happens without warning and requires immediate emergency treatment. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), SCA affects more than 1000 non-hospital patients each day in the United States and only 10 percent of these individuals survive. With fast, appropriate medical care, survival is possible. When bystanders provide cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) before emergency personnel arrive, approximately 40 percent of victims survive. Unfortunately, only one-third (32 percent) of SCA victims receive bystander CPR and just two percent are treated with an AED by bystanders. CARDIOPULMONARY RESUSCITATION (CPR) CPR is a lifesaving procedure performed when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped, as in cases of SCA, electric shock or drowning. CPR is a combination of chest
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compressions, which help keep the person’s blood circulating, and rescue breathing, which provides oxygen to the person’s lungs. Time is of the essence when an unconscious person is not breathing. Permanent brain damage can begin after only four minutes without oxygen, and death can occur as soon as four to six minutes later. The following is the Adult Basic Life Support (BLS) Sequence for Healthcare Providers from the 2015 AHA Guidelines for CPR and Emergency Cardiovascular Care (ECC): 1.
Ensure scene safety.
2.
Check for response.
3.
Shout for nearby help/activate the resuscitation team; can activate the resuscitation team at this time or after checking breathing and pulse.
4.
Check for no breathing or only gasping and check pulse (ideally simultaneously). Activation and retrieval of the AED/emergency equipment by either the lone healthcare provider or by the second person sent by the rescuer must occur no later than immediately after the check for no normal breathing and no pulse identifies cardiac arrest.
5.
Immediately begin CPR, and use the AED/defibrillator when available. CPR consists of cycles of 30 chest compressions and two breaths.
6.
When the second rescuer arrives, provide two-person CPR and use AED/defibrillator.
TIPS
HANDS-ONLY CPR While the AHA’s BLS guidelines for healthcare providers call for the implementation of conventional CPR (30 chest compressions to two breaths), they do recognize the role that hands-only CPR, sometimes referred to as cardiocerebral resuscitation (CCR), can play in saving lives. In 2008 the AHA released a statement that said, “Bystanders who witness the sudden collapse of an adult should dial 911 and provide high-quality chest compressions by pushing hard and fast in the middle of the victim’s chest.” The survival statistics associated with CCR are quite impressive. The AHA reported in their 2015 Hands-Only™ CPR Fact Sheet that “hands-only CPR has been shown to be as effective as conventional CPR for cardiac arrest at home, at work or in public. It can double or even triple a victim’s chance of survival.” Several studies, in fact, have shown CCR to be superior to the conventional CPR. Some health professionals believe that the success of the CCR can be attributed to the uninterrupted chest compressions providing a continuous supply of oxygenated blood to the brain. The other huge upside to CCR is that, for the majority of the population, there’s less reluctance to render aid when mouth-to-mouth contact is removed from the equation. The key to surviving SCA is receiving aid as soon as possible, and a simplified procedure like CCR gives more bystanders the confidence and comfort level to get involved quickly. The AHA continues to recognize the lifesaving impact that CCR can provide. Their 2015 BLS Sequences for both untrained lay rescuers and trained lay rescuers call out the use of CCR. For the trained lay rescuer, rescue breaths are still an option
SAFETY
as their recommendation states, “All lay rescuers should, at a minimum, provide chest compressions for victims of cardiac arrest. In addition, if the trained lay rescuer is able to perform rescue breaths, he or she should add rescue breaths in a ratio of 30 compressions to two breaths.” Whether it’s CPR or CCR, the AHA recommends a compression rate of between 100 to 120 compressions per minute with each chest compression being at least 2 inches but no greater than 2.4 inches in depth. The high-end caps on both of these ratios were added to the 2015 AHA guidelines. Previously, the AHA called out “at least 100 compressions per minute” and compression depths of “at least 2 inches.” CHAIN OF SURVIVAL The AHA’s Chain of Survival is a sequential process for providing treatment to victims of SCA outside of a hospital setting. More people can survive SCA if the following steps occur in rapid succession: • Cardiac arrest is immediately recognized and the emergency response system is activated • Early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is started with an emphasis on chest compression • Rapid defibrillation occurs
• Effective advanced life support is begun • Integrated post-cardiac arrest care is
provided Quick execution of each step is critical because the chances of survival decrease 7 to 10 percent with each passing minute. GOOD SAMARITAN LAWS Most states have enacted Good Samaritan Laws to encourage people to help others in emergency situations. These laws give legal protection to people who provide emergency care to ill or injured persons. They require that the Good Samaritan use common sense and a reasonable level of skill not to exceed the scope of the individual’s training in emergency situations. For more specific information, review your state’s Good Samaritan Law.
may happen after or during recovery from a heart attack. Q: What is an AED? A: An AED is an automatic external defibrillator, a portable, user-friendly electronic device that automatically diagnoses potentially life-threatening heart rhythms. If the AED detects a problem that may respond positively to an electric shock, it permits a shock to be delivered to help restore a normal heart rhythm. RESOURCES:
Q: Is sudden cardiac arrest the same as a heart attack?
American Red Cross CPR/AED online course: https://www.redcross.org/take-aclass/classes/adult-cpr%2Faedonline/a6R3o000001vv3C.html Additional options are available be selecting the “Individual” dropdown menu.
A: No. SCA is not the same as a heart attack. A heart attack occurs if blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked. During a heart attack, the heart usually doesn't suddenly stop beating. SCA is when the heart malfunctions and suddenly stops beating. However, sudden cardiac arrest
YouTube Hands-Only CPR and AED training video: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=1lwRQTGzKcw
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
American Red Cross 1-minute Hands Only CPR video: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=M4ACYp75mjU
BEST OF ADAMS 2021IS OUT NOW!
Visit adamspg.com/bestof2021
Check out a collection of outstanding work from newsrooms across the country celebrating our journalists and showing appreciation for their work as we prepare for an even better 2022.
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APG EAST
CHRISTMAS SPIRIT THE CIRCLEVILLE HERLAD
The Circleville Herald Office has once again stepped up for a family in need. Each year for the last several years office Associates purchase pop from the refrigerator and proceeds go into a fund to help a family in need at Christmas time.
JANUARY
MOVIE NIGHT NOW PLAYING: THE MATRIX CONGRATULATIONS
TO OUR JANUARY WINNER ANNIE GRANLUND,
APG SOUTHERN MINNESOTA
Anthony and Miranda and their young daughter Cameron were the family put forward by the Pickaway County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Cameron is mostly non-verbal and Miranda has vision issues that prevent her from working. Anthony works full time and was recently given a small raise which was enough to push them over income guidelines and lose some benefits. With the pop money, and some personal donations in tow, the Herald Office went out and bought Christmas breakfast, lunch and dinner meals and other food items necessary for the family future meals. Toys were included for Cameron to open on Christmas and clothes, a coat and hat, snow pants and
Pictured are left to right Lisa Hedrick and Christina Spencer with some of the Christmas delivery. boots were included with a surprise red sled. Homemade cookies were a special treat for the family too. After the holiday the family sent several videos of Cameron opening her gifts, including giving thanks.
JOB FAIR IN PORT CHARLOTTE Sun Newspapers held a job fair on Jan 6 to help in finding applicants to fill the over 20 positions open at the Port Charlotte office. Open positions included mailroom, circulation, office assistant, customer service, production, and reporters. We had 12-15 applicants in person with 4 responding to our email blast to subscribers. We found candidates for customer service, classified office assistant, several part time people for the mailroom, and possibly a new reporter. To help entice people to come to the fair as they drove by we had a food truck setup in the parking lot with some great BBQ add day.
REMEMBERING LINDA MAY WHITEHOUSE VOLL
The Question Was: In “The Matrix,” does Neo take the blue pill or red pill? The Answer: red pill
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Linda May Whitehouse Voll, 62, of Maryville, passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, November 11, 2021, surrounded by her loving family. Linda was born to Arlene and Ronald Whitehouse on January 11, 1959 in Chicago, Illinois. After graduation, Linda moved to East Tennessee. While working in Gatlinburg, she met the love of her life, Thomas Voll. They married in December of 1980 and went on to have four beautiful children. Linda was a devoted mother, wife and daughter but was an even prouder Nama to her six grandchildren. She was a lover of animals and plants and had an array of them in her home. Linda spent the last decade working for The Daily Times in Maryville. Linda joins her father, Ronald, in Heaven, along with other family and friends.
APG EAST
A WINTER WONDERLAND IN WARM WEATHER THE DAILY TIMES Santa softly shook in the wind on the highway from Knoxville to Maryville on Saturday morning as his small, plastic body sat atop a baby blue, antique Volkswagen Beetle driving to line up for the annual Jaycees Christmas Parade.
Colson McKinney, 4, sat on a blanket along West Broadway Avenue with their mother and grandmother. Jackson was more excited than the others to catch candy.
The tiny, decorated car joined firetrucks, an armored vehicle, school bands, dancers and more as they all waved and threw candy from New Midland Plaza in Alcoa through downtown Maryville.
Nora Goins has been going since she was 8 months old, said her grandmother, Donna Cyphers. The two were paired with Goins’ great-grandmother and mother, four generations of a family.
The 60-degree temperatures betrayed the parade’s “Winter Wonderland” theme, although the crowd was still merrily dressed in Santa hats, reindeer ears and holiday colors.
“(Nora) likes the candy throwing,” Cyphers said. “I think I like the music of the school bands.”
Before the parade met the crowd lined up along North Cusick Street and West Broadway Avenue, air rustled the many empty grocery bags entangled in tiny fingers. Children were hoisted atop their fathers’ shoulders on the lookout for the first flashing lights. Before police motorcycles marked the start of candy handouts, children ran off their energy while everyone else found a spot to lay a blanket or set a lawn chair. Boston Phelps, 7, dressed head to toe in red and green and topped it off with a Christmas tiara, chased Olivia Telfer, 18 months, around the downtown courtyard where the city of Maryville lit a large tree. Jackson Brickey, 6, Emarie Brickey, 5, and
It was the family’s first year coming to the Jaycees Christmas Parade.
“And the dancing,” added her mother, Maryann Sanford. More than 130 walking groups, dignitaries, floats, bands, old cars, new cars and small vehicles joined the parade, the Jaycees said.
EDITOR SELECTED INTO
25 UNDER 35 CLASS OF 2022
Congratulations to Emily Moore, Circleville Herald editor and APG Ohio executive editor for being selected as E&P’s 2022 “25 Under 35” award winners. “Emily has immediately made a positive impact for our group and a plus addition to Circleville, Ohio”, said Mark Cohen, division president. “She has demonstrated that being an editor goes far beyond just the newspaper and understands all aspects of digital and the importance of audience.” She will be featured in the February 2022 issue of E&P.
Kelly Kincheloe, parade co-chair, said they had a lot of new entries and the parade has continued to grow since it shifted it back to Alcoa. The Jaycees had anticipated more than 35,000 spectators total. They chose the Blount Partnership as the grand marshal of this year’s parade for their role in bringing new businesses, like Amazon and Smith & Wesson, to Blount County. Blount Partnership representatives were at the front of the lineup atop a very snowy and glistening vehicle.
WE’RE HERE
TO HELP We are always here to help! One of our subscribers came in today and received some help directly from Publisher Gene Fowler of the High Country in North Carolina 9
APG EAST
AN ELEGANT BEST OF THE BEST 2021 AWARDS GALA APG CHESAPEAKE APG Chesapeake's Best of the Best 2021 Awards Gala was a smashing success! The sold-out event was held at the Hyatt Regency Chesapeake Bay and awarded over 150 local businesses that were voted the best in their field (Best Veterinarian,
Best Pizza, Best Realtor, etc.) by the public. The gala featured a red carpet entrance, open bar, filet mignon dinner with dessert, ice sculptures, and a Cirque Du Soleil style acrobat as entertainment. Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OsH54jVmmow
SALUTING JOE BURROW
The Athens Messenger sold it’s 6th poster saluting hometown hero Joe Burrow who led his team to a home playoff game. Part of the proceeds went to the local food pantry which is Joe’s charity.
BEST OF CHARLOTTE AWARDS BANQUET The Daily Sun heard their Best of Charlotte Awards Banquet in December. With over 250 attendees from the winners and runner ups in each category the event was successful and was our first event since Covid started. Pictured left to right, Julie Lloyd, Bo Berezansky, Cynthia Acevedo, Jacob Loverdi, David Hyde, Omar Zucco, Lissa Craig Ford, Mike Beatty, Amberly Leverich, Sophie Landry, Justin Lasko, Glen Nickerson.
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THE HIGH ROAD AGENCY
BRINGING CHRISTMAS CHEER TO SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA There’s no place like Southwest Virginia (SWVA) in the holiday season. Friends of Southwest Virginia tasked the High Road Agency (HRA) to assist with creating a series of showcase holiday events at the Southwest Virginia Cultural Center & Marketplace. Multiple events took place over the month of December including a Sunday Jazz Brunch, Breakfast with Santa, a regional music concert among other activities. HRA created the overall branding for the event series including an illustration of the SWVA Cultural Center and Marketplace itself. Those graphics were used on signage, digital graphics, a website, and other collateral to help promote the events. A central space online for the new event series was integral to get the most pertinent details to attendees. The website served as a space to list all of the events and links to purchase tickets to events where required. (https://christmasinswva.com/) The events were a great success bringing in families from throughout the region to share in the holiday spirit.
JUSTIN SLONE TAKES THE HIGH ROAD Justin Slone is The High Road Agency’s newest team member. From Lebanon, Va., his role at HRA includes digital and web design. Justin graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BFA in Graphic Design. He previously served as creative director at the iconic Barter Theatre, the longest-running professional equity theatre in the U.S. When he’s away from the office, Justin enjoys playing Mario Kart with his boys, Jaxson and Jameson, going to concerts with his girlfriend, Alyssa, and telling dad jokes. Most weekends, you can find him hiking in the mountains, drawing, or playing music. 11
APG CENTRAL MORRISON COUNTY RECORD’S
PRODUCTION MANAGER, FAYE SANTALA, HONORED BY CHAMBER AS DECEMBER EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH MORRISON COUNTY RECORD Finding out that she was named December Employee of the Month by the Little Falls Area Chamber of Commerce came as an absolute shock to Faye Santala, production manager at the Morrison County Record. What surprised her even more was the fact that her co-workers had managed to keep it a secret from her. Not only that they had nominated her long time ago, but also for the last few weeks from the time the Chamber set up a day and time to surprise her to the actual day. “I just can’t believe I didn’t find out. I must not be a very good detective. Usually, there aren’t too many secrets around here, but that was a good one,” she said. Santala said the recognition means a lot to her and is one she considers a great honor. Yet at the same time, she is also quite humbled about it and is quick to point out that it is an award any of her co-workers are deserving of. “We have a great team at the Record that give their all in getting the Record out to the community every week. We are like a family,” she said. That Santala is deserving of the recognition comes as no surprise to Sales/General Manager Tena Wensman. “On behalf of our entire staff at the Morrison County Record, we are super excited to see our own Faye Santala chosen for the Chamber’s Employee of the Month. Faye is one of those rare employees whose dedication to her job is unsurpassed,” Wensman said. Santala’s co-workers spoke very highly of her in their nomination. As she has worked at the Record for more than 44 years and the different departments work closely together, all have had the privilege of getting to know her. “Faye is one of the most creative, artistic and thoughtful people on Earth. She goes the extra mile in everything she does, and that includes what she does to provide customer service to the area businesses that advertise in the paper. Anyone who has worked with Faye knows she will do what she needs to do to make the client happy. She also brightens up her work environment with jokes, is the go-to person for her co-workers to talk with and
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her 44-plus years of experience also makes her to go-to person for answers. We are blessed to have Faye Santala as a part of our work family,” said Managing Editor Terry Lehrke. Graphic Designer Victoria Walters, who works in the same department as Santala, said working with her supervisor has been a great experience. “Faye is the perfect person to be our production manager. She knows next to everything about what it takes to get the Record done week after week. Faye knows the answer to most of our production questions because she’s performed all the tasks herself and she can always point you in the right direction if you get stuck. Besides being knowledgeable, Faye has always been patient and supportive, doing her best to help fellow employees to develop the skills they need to carry their own weight. It takes a team to get the Record out and Faye helps us be a superior team,” Walters said. Multi Media Account Executives Kim Plettl and Kerry O’Rourke appreciate Santala’s dedication and thoughtfulness in all aspects. “She is beyond creative, a total team player in all aspects.” Plettl said. Santala started working at the Morrison County Record in July 1977. Looking back, Santala had initially planned to pursue a career in nursing after she graduated St. Francis High School in Little Falls in 1975, but after having worked as a nursing assistant for a few years, she decided it wasn’t what she wanted to do after all. It was ultimately a friend, who was attending Staples Vocational School for photography, who eventually convinced her to pursue graphic arts. To help pay for the tuition, Santala continued to work as a nursing assistant on the weekends as well as cleaned classrooms at the high school. Over the years, Santala has seen many changes in the newspaper industry, particularly in how to paper is produced. When she first started, there were no computers, so one person had to set all the type on a film strip and then all of the lines were cut out by hand. “We would use rubber cement or hot wax to stick everything down and you had to make sure it was all straight. If a mistake was done, someone had to
Faye Santala, production manager at the Morrison County Record, is very much loved and appreciated by customers, co-workers and others in the community, for her dedicated, professional and friendly service.
go back in and re-type it on the film strip,” she said. In about 1987 or so, computers were implemented in the making of the newspaper at the Record. The screen itself was extremely small. “So if you had a full page ad, you were constantly scrolling to read it. Even so, we thought the computers were great compared to what it was like before,” she said. Even since then, a lot has evolved technologically with the size of computer screens, the software programs and the use of internet. Besides paginating several pages of the Record, along with other staff members, Santala also paginates the classifieds and the legal pages for two other newspapers — the Mille Lacs Messenger and the Aitkin Independent Age. Santala said she really enjoys working at the Record. Not only because of the good mentors she has had over the years, especially Carol Hoheisel and Bob Wright, who passed on their hard work ethic to their employees, but also because of the closeknit work family dynamics among the workers. Most of the people at the Record is also crosstrained into other areas, so whenever someone is absent for one reason or another, there is someone who can cover that area. Although everyone’s job is different, everybody works as a team to accomplish the same goal — to get the paper out, week after week in time for deadline. When Santala isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Chuck, their children, Josh and Benji and grandchildren, Talon, 3, and Devyn, 11 months. She also likes to go camping, complete different arts and crafts projects and reading.
APG CENTRAL
LIGHTING UP MAIN STREET FOR HOLIDAY SCOTSMAN/COUNTY NEWS REVIEW What’s more dismal than a sterile business window at Christmas? No lights. No garland. No spirit. Mr. Scrooge would be pleased. Certainly, the holiday spirit was not in short supply at the Cambridge, Minnesota, office of the Scotsman/County News Review, publications of APG of East Central Minnesota. Thanks to several associates who annually participate in a window decorating contest, festive windows dominated the publications’ section of Main Street this past holiday season. In fact, the windows at the weekly newspapers were so magnificent that the Discover Downtown Chamber Committee awarded the newspapers its top award in the annual Christmas decorating contest, known as the Winter Walk/Downtown Cambridge Decorating Contest. The award is presented to the business that garners the most votes cast by local residents. Associates Lori Peterson, Aaron Graves, Tonya Orbeck and Cathy Nelson all played
a role in transforming the front windows to a holiday burst that was enjoyed by local residents for weeks. Like many small-town newspapers, the Scotsman/County News Review operates in a building that is positioned prominently in downtown and offers expansive window space. Rather than leaving that glass canvas untouched, the fearless foursome used colorful lights, tinsel and a playful winter land of gingerbread men, toys and candy to provide onlookers with some holiday joy.
A MINUTE WITH MARK ADAMS: Why Do Associates Matter At APG? Watch this month’s video: hr.adamspg.com/minute Submit your question: AskMark@adamspg.com
Why Do Associates Matter at APG?
“The window decorating contest is an event the Cambridge front office looks forward to every year,” said legal notice department manager Tonya Orbeck. “The Scotsman/County News Review window is the largest window on Main Street. We feel it is important to participate in the contest and add to the downtown festivities during Cambridge’s Annual Snowflake Parade.” This is the third time the office has captured the award, winning it previously in 2017 and 2018. “We enjoy having bragging rights and are already planning next year’s décor,” said Orbeck.
The front window at the Scotsman/County News Review in Cambridge, Minnesota, was awarded first place in a recent window decorating contest. Four associates who helped create the winning holiday window display are: Lori Peterson, Aaron Graves, Tonya Orbeck and Cathy Nelson.
Visit the HR Portal to subscribe and to receive the monthly newsletter in your inbox. 13
APG CENTRAL
LAKER PIONEER BRIGHTENS THE SEASON FOR FAMILY APG MINNESOTA
FEBRUARY
MOVIE NIGHT NOW PLAYING:
NEVER BEEN KISSED
For your chance to be the lucky winner of an APG Swag and Movie Bag, answer the trivia question below correctly:
IN “NEVER BEEN KISSED,” WHAT IS JOSIE’S PROFESSION? All answers should be submitted to AskHR@adamspg.com. The winner will be drawn on Wednesday, February 16, 2022.
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One Lake Minnetonka, Minnesota area family had their Christmas brightened just a bit thanks to the generous support of staff at the Laker Pioneer newspaper, a publication of APG of East Central Minnesota. Four associates combined to participate in an anonymous gift-giving program for those who needed a little financial help this past Christmas.
WeCAN’s Adopt-A-Family program helps low-income families enjoy a more complete holiday by connecting them with an anonymous gift sponsor such as the Laker Pioneer folks.
Every family member who participates chooses one gift they “need” and another they would “like.” That translated into a new outfit and art supplies for a local girl and a gift certificate for a dinner out for her mom. For this family of two it was possible because of the financial donations made by Laker Pioneer associates Norma Carstensen, Kristi Pexa, Al Lohman and Jill Heath.
Once money was collected by staff, a list of possible gifts, submitted by participating families, was used to shop for the gifts that were ultimately presented to them anonymously. “It’s not a lot, but I think it certainly makes a difference,” she said.
“We’ve done this for a few years now. The program usually alternates between Hennepin County and Carver County families,” said Carstensen.
This is the fifth year the group has adopted a family at the holidays.
APG CENTRAL
GRAND RAPIDS HERALD-REVIEW MOVES! APG MINNESOTA
The Grand Rapids Herald-Review in Grand Rapids, Minn. moved to a new location in December after the building they had called home since 1986 sustained major structural damages from a storm in late July. The newspaper moved into a building which was previously the Grand Rapids Public Library. Now renovated, it is the Carnegie Business Center (21 NE fifth Street, Suite 101) across from Grand Rapids City Hall. The original library was built in 190506 and opened in February of 1906. It has undergone many alterations over the years and was re-modeled extensively in the 1930s and 1970s. The Carnegie building served as the public library until
a new library facility was completed on a different site in 2002. Now functioning as the Carnegie Business Center, the building provides the Grand Rapids Herald-Review with the space it needs for advertising business, customer service and editorial operations.
DO YOU KNOW YOUR
PAID TIME OFF BALANCE? (COVERS VACATION/SICK LEAVE) We know how hard you work and recognize the importance of providing you with time for rest and relaxation. View PTO Policies online at: hr.adamspg.com/handbook
“We were fortunate to find a new home in central location downtown with great history. We’re excited for this new start for the HeraldReview.” Brett Holum General Manager Grand Rapids Herald-Review
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POST REGISTER NAMED THE OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIC MEDIA/ MARKETING COMPANY OF THE YEAR 2021 FOR EASTERN IDAHO APG OF IDAHO The Post Register, Idaho Falls, Idaho was named the Outstanding Philanthropic Media/Marketing Company of the year 2021 for eastern Idaho by the Idaho Nonprofit Center. Idaho Philanthropy Day is celebrated statewide with award ceremonies to recognize the amazing philanthropic work of nonprofit organizations, foundations, businesses, and individuals nominated by their peers. The Idaho Philanthropy Day awards encompass the spirit of philanthropy including, time, talent, treasure, and involvement in the community. The Post was recognized for outstanding news coverage of non-profits as well as the imaginative and affordable advertising options we provide to support the local organizations who add so much to our
Associate Newsletter: Articles due by Oct. 10, 2021 HR Newsletter
CHRISTMAS FUN AT IDAHO PRESS, NAMPA, IDAHO
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community. In addition many staff members volunteer annually with local non-profits, from Rotary to Civitans events, working at the Food Bank to coordinating Christmas Toy Drives.
APG DIGITAL
WEST DIVISION CONTINUES TO DRIVE SUCCESS WITH VIRTUAL SALES EVENTS FOR AUTO DEALERS APG DIGITAL The Mesabi Tribune and APG's Northern Minnesota team is coming off an amazing year in which it sold and completed 7 Auto Virtual Sales Events & Promotions for local auto dealers. The Tribune generated more than $25,000 from this very competitive category and has dealers wanting more for 2022. Across the country, dealers have scaled back spending with most media, but not in APG Northern Minnesota. This program, featuring state of the art technology and auto intender targeting, has put APG's Northern Minnesota team on the demand side with area dealers. And,
so much in fact, that one dealer (Hibbing Chrysler Ford) ran two consecutive virtual sales events and promotions. Inventory remains a challenge, but you can find a dealer in every town looking to sell cars, trucks, RVs, boats, snowmobiles, or tractors. February has a couple of themes that work: Super Bowl Sunday, President’s Day, Valentine’s Day. But, anytime of the year works. For more info: Mike Martoccia, Vice President Digital Marketing: michael.martoccia@adamspg.com
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HUMAN
CHECK OUT THE APG HR PORTAL HR.ADAMSPG.COM HR STAFF | BENEFITS CONTACTS | JOB OPENINGS | NEWSLETTERS To help simplify your employment at APG, we have built this Associate portal as a resource for you. Inside, you will find quick links and easy access to: human resources staff, benefits contacts, job openings, newsletters and more… This is a great place to start when you are searching for HR information. Of course, if you can’t find what you are looking for or need additional help, our HR team is always available to assist you. You can find their contact info at hr.adamspg.com/contact or you can send them a quick message to AskHR@adamspg.com.
LOOKING FOR A DIFFERENT POSITION WITHIN APG? CHECK OUT AVAILABLE CAREER OPPORTUNITIES ON THE HR PORTAL.
AskHR!
Have a question, but don’t know whom to ask? The Human Resources staff is listening! You can always send an email to Ask HR if you have questions or concerns. Emails will be kept confidential and, if we print your question in the APG newsletter, we will not use your name. Questions may be emailed to AskHR@adamspg.com or sent interoffice to your regional HR representative.
DON’T KNOW WHOM TO CALL? CONTACT HUMAN RESOURCES. DEB BROOKS
STEPHANIE LUEBKE
HR Manager – APG West dbrooks@skagitpublishing.com 360.416.2187
HR Generalist, APG Central sluebke@apgenc.com 608.755.8360
GWEN DAVIS
MICHELE WATERS
HR Manager - East gdavis@apgenc.com 252.366.8139
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HR Director, APG Chesapeake/ Ohio/Michigan mwaters@adamspg.com 410.770.4159
THÉRÉSE ZADNIKKLECKER
HR Manager , APG Central 763-712-3559 therese.zadnik-klecker@adamspg.com
RESOURCES
ASSOCIATE
REFERRAL PROGRAM Know someone who would be a perfect fit at APG?
REFER THEM AND YOU CAN EARN CASH
WHAT’S IN IT FOR
YOU? $100
PLUS
UPON HIRE
$100 AFTER 30 DAYS
PLUS
$100 AFTER 60 DAYS
For any successful referral of friends, family members, or professional acquaintances, you will receive the following payment: • • • • •
$100 for any person you refer after he or she is hired $100 for any person you refer after he or she completes 30 days of employment $100 for any person you refer after he or she completes 60 days of employment $200 for any person you refer after he or she completes 90 days of employment $500 for any person you refer after he or she completes 1 year of employment
PLUS
$200
PLUS
AFTER 90 DAYS
$500 AFTER 1 YEAR
Please be aware that no Associate is authorized to make an offer of employment to any individual or promise employment of any type. All decisions regarding employment offers will be made solely by management. Only one referral incentive will be issued for each new Associate; it will be paid to the first eligible person to submit the form below to your APG Human Resources representative. Former Associates who may be rehired by the company are NOT considered to be a new referral and therefore will not be eligible for a referral incentive payment.
There is NO situation in which an incentive will be paid for any Associate who leaves for any reason prior to being employed for 30 days. To receive a referral incentive, the person making the referral must be an Associate of the company on the day the referred Associate is hired AND the day the referral bonus is due to be paid. *THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED AND TURNED IN PRIOR TO THE APPLICATION BEING COMPLETED BY THE PERSON YOU ARE REFERRING.*
APPLICANT NAME
APPLICANT PHONE NUMBER
APPLICANT EMAIL ASSOCIATE NAME
DATE
Please submit forms or questions to your regional HR manager.
CONGRATULATIONS TO ASSOCIATES WHO HAVE BEEN AWARDED THE APG REFERRAL BONUS FOR NEW HIRES! *Katie Westbrooks referred Justin Slone for an digital design position at the The High Road Agency.
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MOVIE NIGHT
MOVIE NIGHT NOW PLAYING: NEVER BEEN KISSED
For your chance to be one of two lucky winners of an APG Swag and Movie Bag:
FIRST CHANCE TO WIN:
SEARCH THE NEWSLETTER AND TELL US WHO WON THE MOVIE TRIVIA QUESTION IN JANUARY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN THE FEBRUARY MOVIE.
SECOND CHANCE TO WIN:
SEARCH THE NEWSLETTER FOR THIS MONTH’S MOVIE TRIVIA QUESTION AND SEND US THE ANSWER. *Contents of winner’s prize pack may vary.
All answers should be submitted to AskHR@adamspg.com. The winner will be drawn on Wednesday, February 16, 2022.
DO YOU HAVE A BRIGHT IDEA FOR OUR COMPANY NEWSLETTER?
WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU!
Submissions are due on the 10TH OF EACH MONTH at submitnews.adamspg.com. Submission guidelines: provide photo and story, include photo credit and names of people in the photos, original content only (no copyrighted material).
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*Please note, there is limited space in the newsletter and not everything will be printed.