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Annual Fire Training with the Mound Fire Department
So what do we do with the overreach of parents? We have a parent letter in our application
packet. This is something that needs to be signed by all under 18 applicant parents. It’s a way
to help get them involved in the process and let them know when it’s time for their student to
“step up” on their own. It’s been successful, but I’ve now added a “tips for what comes next”
section because of parents. We actually had a parent come into the store with his son and fill
out the application while the son stood and stared at the ceiling. The kid might be a great
potential employee, but it’s very hard to overlook this type of parental overreach. It makes you
wonder if the kid would be able to handle a shift on the dock.

We really do get the best of the best when it comes to crew members. The unsolicited feedback
is wonderful. Comments such as “friendly, welcoming, and work hard” regularly meet my ears.
They have very hard jobs. They are young and enforcing some pretty big rules with people 3 to
4 times their age! They are our boat yard image and as such they set the stage for our business
personality because they all serve in front line sales positions.

COMMUNITY
We are a big believer in our local community. Absent of a Chamber of Commerce, we find
other ways to support our community. We are a strong supporter of our local schools,
community activities, and our fire department / public service.

About 5 years ago we switched our advertising to local newspapers and high schools. It’s been
a remarkable change. We also donate to many causes with our pontoon rentals. It’s fun when
the donation we provide is actually a fundraiser! It seems to be a favorite silent auction prize.
The charities have ranged from the fire department fish fry to the police department Christmas
toy drive and many specialty charity drives. This summer we participated in the Folds of Honor
Donation drive raising $1,020.17 via our spare change jar on the counter and the sale of T-shirts
and can coolers with a special Summer 2017 design. We also have previously hosted a Toys
for Tots Drive, too!
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