Business Solutions for Winter 2023

W I N T E R 2 0 2 3 5 BUSINESS solutions Pleased with Madison While the vibe may be vintage, the technology used is modern. Vintage Station gets fiber internet service from Madison Communications, which keeps the store’s POS (point of sale) system working seamlessly. “We’ve had no trouble at all with our Madison Communications internet. Vintage Station has a tin ceiling, which causes some customers to lose their cell service. But our Wi-Fi always works. I also appreciate that when Madison installed our internet service, they paid attention to cosmetic things to not disrupt our look. Plus, it feels like we know everybody there, and they’re so nice. They never act like our technology questions are silly,” she said. Special Days at the Store What does Vintage Station offer for holidays and special events? Caldieraro replied, “During the Christmas season, we do weekly drawings for prizes to show our appreciation to the customers that support our store and town. With Valentine’s Day coming up, people can pick out great gifts, such as pieces from our Swarovski jewelry collection.” Wine and craft beer were added recently to the Vintage Station product line, after Caldieraro did a little survey to find out what customers liked best. “It was a fun learning process,” she said. Customers can sit and enjoy these beverages outside the store when the weather is nice. In addition, women can schedule a jewelry party at Vintage Station that includes wine or simply make plans to meet girlfriends there to shop together. Spring through fall, Vintage Market hosts “Farmer, Flea, and Vendor Markets” on Saturday mornings. This provides an opportunity for local vendors to set up a table and sell produce, homemade crafts, and other items. Interested parties can call 618-779-2956 to reserve a spot and get more details. Weather permitting, Caldieraro hopes to begin the 2023 season in April. Who’s Minding Your Business? Zina Maurer Supervisor–Customer Operations Zina Maurer joined Madison Communications in August 2002. She previously worked at the Wall Street Journal and Edison Brothers Stores, holding positions in accounts payable, risk management, and circulation. As Supervisor–Customer Operations, Maurer supervises the entire Customer Care Specialist (CCS) Department, which includes Sales, Back Office Support, and Dispatch. She ensures the CCS Department is up to date on current policies and procedures along with their changes, supports the Customer Service Specialists on customer issues and projects, addresses escalated customers, and works with other Supervisors/Managers on creating, documenting, and implementing new processes. Maurer also fills in as needed within the CCS Department. What does she enjoymost about working for Madison Communications? Maurer replied, “I enjoy the family atmosphere that the employees have created and how Madison Communications has grown through the years.” In September 2023, she and her husband Bob will celebrate 36 years of marriage. The couple has three adult children, two sons-in-law, and two granddaughters. In her leisure time, Maurer enjoys cooking and spending time with family. We’ve had no trouble at all with our Madison Communications internet. Plus, it feels like we know everybody there, and they’re so nice.” — SARA CALDIERARO, OWNER, VINTAGE STATION

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