Grand Rapids Chamber's 2014 Spring Advocacy event will feature former Michigan Governor John Engler on April 15th; The Importance of Technology for Today's Small Business - Theresa Mintle, President's Corner, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce; Missouri State lawmakers hold annual State of the District Address for Kirksville Chamber; Arkansas Business And Agriculture Leaders Push For Immigration Reform

The Grand Rapids Chamber’s 2014 Spring Advocacy event will feature keynote speaker Governor John Engler. Join us to hear about the latest on immigration reform, the minimum wage, unemployment, how American business is positioned for the 21^st Century, tax reform, trade authority and the upcoming 2014 elections.   
Governor Engler is currently serving as president of the Business Roundtable, an association of chief executive officers of leading U.S. Corporations with a combined workforce of nearly 16 million workers and more than $7 trillion in annual revenues. 
As president of the Business Roundtable, Engler brings CEO experience and insights as he works to address challenges facing the United States, including global competitiveness, innovation, economic growth and job creation.  In his role, Engler has emerged as a preeminent voice for regulatory restraint and transparency – working at the state and federal levels to establish sound public policy and a business environment for a thriving U.S. economy. 
Engler’s impressive background includes three-terms as governor of Michigan, six years as president and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers, and twenty years in the Michigan Legislature. For more information: Grand Rapids Chamber

The Importance of Technology for Today's Small Business - Theresa Mintle, President's Corner, Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

The Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce is passionate about finding better ways to build small business success.  In today’s business environment, it is essential to our region’s future that we have conversations about how to best achieve job creation, improved wages and stronger business growth. Small business success is at the heart of this conversation. Read more in the President’s Corner:

Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

Missouri State lawmakers hold annual State of the District Address for Kirksville Area Chamber


The Kirksville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Governmental Affairs Committee hosted the annual State of the District Address Thursday morning at the Adair County Annex Building. Senator Brian Munzlinger was in attendance along with State Representatives Nate Walker and Craig Redmon. The three presented an outline of the current legislative agenda. Read more in: Heartland Connection

Arkansas Business And Agriculture Leaders Push For Immigration Reform

A new study by the Partnership for a New American Economy suggests labor shortages are increasing the reliance on imported produce and slowing economic growth in Arkansas. Speaking to reporters Wednesday, heads of chamber of commerce groups, the Arkansas Farm Bureau and the Economic Development Commission, said it shows the need for the U.S. Congress to pass meaningful immigration reform.
The study (which can be downloaded here as a PDF) says more fresh produce is imported into the U.S. today than ever before. “This report mirrors what we have heard from our members and businesses, as well as elected leaders across the state, that our existing immigration system unnecessarily strains our ability to grow the economy to compete and bring new business and industry to Arkansas,” said Randy Zook, president and CEO of the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce. Read more at: WUAR Public Radio

Missouri Chamber: Payment cuts lead Missouri hospitals to reduce staff, services and capital investments; Illinois Chamber of Commerce Leads National Letter Urging Congressional Action on Transportation; Michigan Chamber of Commerce Applauds Bi-Partisan Effort To Reform Business Personal Property Tax; Indiana Chamber of Commerce Week May 5-9; 5 Ways to Start a Business Plan - A Top Five Article for 2013; Equipping & Empowering Your Chamber Staff!- By Chuck Ewart

3/26/2014 - A new survey of Missouri’s hospitals finds that nearly 1,000 full-time equivalent positions have been reduced in the last six months, and a hiring freeze has been implemented for another 2,145 positions. The reductions are in response to federal funding cuts, high uncompensated care costs and changing utilization patterns.

Between 2013 and 2019, payments that Missouri hospitals receive from the federal government will be reduced by nearly $4 billion. Without Medicaid reform, the state’s hospitals will be left without the new revenue from expanding health insurance coverage to the uninsured and will continue to experience increased uncompensated care costs. Hospitals’ provision of charity care in 2012 was up 32 percent since 2010. The survey shows that hospitals are beginning to address the fiscal imbalance by reducing staff, delaying and canceling planned capital investments, and reducing service lines. Moreover, the cuts likely will become more pronounced later in the decade. Read More: Missouri Chamber

Illinois Chamber of Commerce Leads National Letter

Urging Congressional Action on Transportation

Springfield, IL - Today the Illinois Chamber of Commerce joined over 30 state chambers in co-signing a letter to Congress calling for action to address America’s critical transportation infrastructure needs. This letter, organized by the Illinois and Georgia Chambers of Commerce, reminds Congress there is an urgent need to keep federal funds flowing to address the demands upon the nation’s transportation infrastructure.

Illinois Chamber President and CEO Doug Whitley said, “It is a common goal among numerous state chambers of commerce that members of our respective congressional delegations understand that their constituents are eager for them to move beyond the partisan posturing that permeates Capitol Hill and actually do something about fixing the nation’s transportation networks. Read more: Illinois Chamber  

Michigan Chamber of Commerce Applauds Bi-Partisan Effort To Reform Business Personal Property Tax

Mar 26, 2014 - The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today commended both the State House and Michigan Senate for displaying overwhelming bi-partisan support to begin phase-out of Michigan's burdensome business personal property tax while protecting local communities with full reimbursement revenue.
Senate Bills 821-830 were passed in both houses with overwhelming bi-partisan support and will soon be headed to the Governor's desk where he is expected to sign the package. The package finalizes the legislative effort to fully exempt small business owners from the tax and to begin phase-out of the tax on manufacturing. The package is also carefully crafted to provide full reimbursement to local governments, schools, police, firefighters, ambulance services and jail – all of whom rely on this local revenue for operations. Read More Michigan Chamber of Commerce

Indiana Chamber of Commerce Week May 5-9

May 5 - 9 is the inaugural celebration of Chamber of Commerce Week in Indiana, a chance for our organizations to celebrate chambers of commerce and their contributions to Indiana's economic climate.

ICEA supports all 168 chambers of commerce in establishing promotional materials and activities to help raise awareness about chambers and their accomplishments in the community.  Chamber of Commerce Week is open to all chambers of commerce, regardless of ICEA affiliation.  For more Information, contact Shelli Williams of ICEA

Source: www.ICEAonline.com  

5 Ways to Start a Business Plan - A Top Five Article for 2013

How do you get started on a business plan? It depends on who you are, what you like, what you do well and how you think. People are all different. I say think of a business plan as a collection of components or modules, and start wherever you feel like it. Here are five specific suggestions, based on the idea that people should start with what’s best for the individual, depending on style. Which one is best for you?

1. Do a SWOT analysis.
2. Do a simple sales forecast.
3. Do the big picture in a vision statement, mission statement or mantra.
4. Develop your core market story.
5. Talk to 10 customers.

Get more information about each step here at the Small Business Administration

Equipping & Empowering Your Staff! - By Chuck Ewart

Your most important resource is your staff. You must spend the time and resources necessary to train, motivate, inspire, and care for these important people. One of the critical roles of a leader is to hire well, train effectively, and provide the tools that each member of the staff needs in order to be successful.

Every staff position is important to the success of the organization. Jim Collins writes in his best-selling business book, "Good to Great", that we must have the right people on the bus to ensure effectiveness and success. Collins also emphasizes that it is imperative that you have the right people in the right seats on the bus. Remember, your receptionist may well be the most critical position in the organization. That staff person very often presents the first impression of the organization. Whether it is by phone or in face-to-face interactions, the receptionist can make or break a number of possibly important relationships. Make sure you have the right people in the right positions.

I am aware of local chambers of commerce that have made executive hires simply based on the fact that the individual was the son or daughter of a bank president, plant manager, or board member... and was "a good, likable person". I've also known chamber executives who have been "forced" to hire a staff person because of who the mother or father happened to be.

Hiring requires a thorough understanding of a well-developed job description, along with the talents and skill sets that the position will require. Even in smaller organizations, you must ensure that you hire the best possible people to carry out the meaningful work. Should a staff position allow for a person with no previous experience, make certain you hire someone with personality, demonstrated business etiquette, and personal style that you can mold into an outstanding professional. Contact Chuck at The Ewart Group [cewart@theewartgroup.com].

Request for Support of the South Shore Rail Line Extension from Sue Reed, President of the Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce

On February 11, 2014, The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors passed a Resolution in favor of the South Shore Rail Line Extension. This extension connects Chicago to Northwest Indiana and the expansion of the West Lake Corridor, which will provide new jobs, diversify the economy and provide better access to the region. This resolution was mailed to our local representatives and many of the cities and towns that will benefit from this extension.

Congressman Pete Visclosky has asked for our assistance. Not all of the municipalities have agreed to dedicate funds they receive for economic development to this project. If you live, or work in one of the following cities or towns, please take the time to call or email the Town Council and let them know you support this project. Dyer's Town Council meets this evening at 6pm and they are undecided. If you live or work in Dyer and support the extension please attend the meeting. All communities need to hear from the residents and employers that are in support.

Communities not committed: Cedar Lake, Crown Point, Dyer, East Chicago, Gary, Griffith, Hammond, Lowell, Merrillville, New Chicago, Schererville, St. John, Winfield.

To read the resolution please click here South Shore Rail Extension.

5-Star Accreditation Puts Northern Kentucky Chamber in Top One Percent Nationwide; Maura Durham Will Take Over as President of the Duneland Chamber of Commerce; Franklin Chamber of Commerce (Indiana) Seeks Executive Director; Representatives of the Joplin Innovation Campus (Missouri Southern State University, Crowder College, Joplin Schools and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce) Move Forward with New Agreement, Missouri Gov. Nixon Announces; Metra CEO Meets with Lombard (Illinois) Chamber

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce joined the elite when it received U.S. Chamber of Commerce accreditation at the highest level, 5-Star. Only 75 of 6,936 chambers nationwide currently hold this distinction.
"Accreditation is one of the highest honors bestowed on local chambers fighting for pro-growth and jobs policies at the federal, state, and local level," said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber president and CEO. "We are proud to recognize the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and its members for helping to advance the principles of free enterprise - the bedrock of this prestigious award." Read more at: Northern Kentucky Chamber

Maura Durham Will Take Over as President of the Duneland Chamber of Commerce

Maura Durham will take over as president of the Duneland Chamber of Commerce March 31, the chamber announced last week.
Durham currently serves as membership marketing coordinator for the chamber. "The board was very impressed with Maura's enthusiasm for the mission of the chamber," Scott Mundell, Duneland Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman said in a statement. "The search committee met with highly qualified candidates and the board is very confident in Maura's ability to lead this organization. "Heather Ennis, current chamber president, was recently named president and CEO of the Northwest Indiana Forum, a private industry group. Read More: NWI Times.com

Franklin Chamber of Commerce (Indiana) Seeks Executive Director

  

This position touches all aspects of business in the Franklin, IN community. With over 325 members, the chamber enjoys a diverse membership base.  The Executive Director leads the organization for membership growth; programming; and overall management.  The executive director is expected to mentor the chamber team, motivating staff and volunteers to accomplish mission-specific tasks.

Resumes accepted at info@iceaonline.com

or mail applications prior to May 1 to the following address:

Indiana Chamber Executives Association
P.O. Box 377
Hanover IN 47243

More information can be found on the ICEA website. 

Representatives of the Joplin Innovation Campus (Missouri Southern State University, Crowder College, Joplin Schools and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce) move forward with new agreement, Missouri Gov. Nixon announces

JOPLIN, Mo. – A groundbreaking program to put Missouri students on a fast-track to jobs in high-demand fields, without taking on debt, took a big step forward in Joplin today, Gov. Jay Nixon announced. The Governor joined representatives of the Joplin Innovation Campus, including Missouri Southern State University, Crowder College, Joplin Schools and the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce, for the signing of a historic agreement to give students the opportunity to earn an associate degree while in high school. Read more: Office of Missouri Governor Jay Nixon

Metra CEO Meets with Lombard (Illinois) Chamber

Safe and reliable transportation is essential to the economic and environmental health of Lombard and all of Northeast Illinois, Metra CEO Don Orseno said during a speech to the Lombard Area Chamber of Commerce and Industry Wednesday. Metra currently serves about 1,281 Lombard residents daily. Read more in TribLocal

Indiana Governor Mike Pence to Address Valpo Chamber Tomorrow

Governor Mike Pence is a lifelong Hoosier with legal, small business, and policy experience.  He was elected the 50th Governor of the State of Indiana in 2012. Governor Pence is dedicated to continuing Indiana on a pathway to success through fiscal responsibility, economic development and educational opportunity for every Hoosier child. More information at: Valpo Chamber

Joseph Seaman to Retire from Greater Lafayette Commerce; Chamber Technology - Beth Ziesenis: Your Nerdy Best Friend – 6 Step Guide: How to Get a Business Loan; What are the Two Biggest Chamber Lies - From Mick Fleming?

Joseph Seaman, who has served since June 2007 as president and chief executive officer of Greater Lafayette Commerce and its predecessor organization, has announced he will retire from that post at year end. A 13-member search committee has been named. It will begin meeting in early March under the leadership of Gary Lehman, chairman of the board of Oerlikon Fairfield and president of Oerlikon USA Holdings Inc. Currently vice chair of the Greater Lafayette Commerce board, he chaired a similar committee when Seaman was chosen to lead the local economic development organization. “Joe has been a terrific leader, bringing our people together on focused goals, uniting us in consensus, and landing some impressive economic development wins,” Lehman said. “He’ll continue to do this the rest of the year and help us achieve a smooth transition as we continue our positive momentum.” Read more: Greater Lafayette Commerce Chamber Technology - Beth Ziesenis: Your Nerdy Best Friend – Apps, Tech Tools and Tips to Get Organized, Get Creative and Get Ahead-  Technical talk in layperson terms. Beth’s first book, Upgrade to Free: The Best Free and Low-Cost Online Tools and Apps. Design resources to replace very expensive software Tips for choosing a newsletter service Dozens of recommendations from fellow nerds 450+ Free and Bargain Tech Tools! I am not a graphic artist — far from it. That’s why I love apps that help uncover the creative genius within — the talentless creative genius. Here are three of my favorite apps for making quick graphics from your mobile device photos. Read her free blog: Beth Ziesenis: Your Nerdy Best Friend 6 Step Guide: How to Get a Business Loan  Money is the lifeline of any business, so whether you’re starting a business or running an existing one, securing financing is a major factor, especially for small businesses.  Many budding entrepreneurs find the task daunting and don’t even know where to begin. Here’s a simple yet practical guide on how to go about preparing to apply for a small business loan. 1.    What criteria do banks look for in making small business loans? 2.    What information will you need? 3.    How can you set yourself up from the beginning to make the process easier? (i.e. accounting systems, etc.) 4.    What is the typical size of a small business loan? 5.    How can you get financing to start a business since many banks want to fund growth? 6.    Are there associations that can help? Read more and get answers:  SBA: How to get a business loan   What are the Two Biggest Chamber Lies? 1. Chamber CEO’s Daily Planner 2. Chamber Staff Job Description - Mick Fleming, ACCE

Eric Kranz Appointed Executive Director of Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce; Congresswoman Bustos Discusses Regional Economic Priorities with Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce; New Online Business Tools From the SBA; New Council Aimed at Unifying Voices of Omaha-Area Manufacturers; Why Chambers Need to be Involved in Government Affairs...

(Lawrenceburg, IN) – Mark Banschbach, Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce, is pleased to announce the appointment of Eric Kranz as its new Executive Director. Serving as the Chamber’s Executive Director, Kranz brings a renewed emphasis to professionally serve the needs of the Chamber’s nearly 350 members through a variety of business development, education and counseling services that specifically target local business retention and growth. Source: Indiana Chamber Executives Association website Congresswoman Bustos Discusses Regional Economic Priorities with Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce ... Congresswoman Cheri Bustos (IL-17) met with members from the Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce to discuss regional economic priorities.  “I was pleased to meet with leaders from across the Quad Cities today to discuss ways we can continue to work together to create jobs, boost our economy and strengthen collaboration across our region,” said Congresswoman Cheri Bustos. “I look forward to continuing to fight for the economic well-being of all our communities as we work together to make our region an even better place to live, work and raise a family.” At the meeting, Bustos talked about her regional economic priorities that include replacing the functionally obsolete I-74 bridge across the Mississippi River, strengthening the Rock Island Arsenal to ensure a steady workload continues in times of peace and war, pushing for passenger rail service for the region including Amtrak service between the Quad Cities and Chicago, opening up Thomson Prison, improving the aging locks and dams along the Mississippi River, and helping to bring the new Digital Manufacturing Innovation Institute to Illinois. Read more: The Aledo Times Record New Online Business Tools From the SBA The Small Business Administration (SBA) has a Total of 128 Online Courses, Videos & Chat Sessions to Help Start or Grow Your Small Business: Starting a business Managing a business Financing Marketing Government Contracting For Details: http://www.sba.gov/tools/sba-learning-center New Council Aimed at Unifying Voices of Omaha-Area Manufacturers How much do manufacturers worry about government regulations and the people who enforce them? Enough that an executive from one Omaha manufacturer, after pointedly airing his grievances at a forum Monday, didn't want his name or his company's name reported for fear of getting targeted by those same government regulators. Read more: Omaha World Herald Why Chambers Need to be Involved in Government Affairs... •Public policy affects your members •Elected officials need to hear from you as the “voice of business” •Your members can’t accomplish alone what they can together •If you don’t, someone else will;  and the #1 reason  Fulfill your Mission Statement: •Voice for business •Promote economic growth and development •Advocate for the business community -Cholly Smith, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Exec Ongoing Education Book: The 22 immutable LAWS OF BRANDING -Al Ries and Laura Ries; iCea iDea of the week; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: Peter Drucker; Illinois Prosperity Project Gains Momentum; Newsmakers 2014: Steve Halter, president of the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce

Smart and accessible, The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding is the definitive text on branding, pairing anecdotes about some of the best brands in the world, like Rolex, Volvo, and Heineken, with the signature savvy of marketing gurus Al and Laura Ries. Combining The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding and The 11 Immutable Laws of Internet Branding, this book proclaims that the only way to stand out in today's marketplace is to build your product or service into a brand—and provides the step-by-step instructions you need to do so.
The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding also tackles one of the most challenging marketing problems today: branding on the Web. The Rieses divulge the controversial and counterintuitive strategies and secrets that both small and large companies have used to establish internet brands. The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding is the essential primer on building a category-dominating, world-class brand.
This marketing classic has been expanded to include new commentary, new illustrations, and a bonus book: The 11 Immutable Laws of Internet Branding

Source: Harper Collins Publishers


Indiana Chamber Executives Association IDEA of the Week

iCea iDea of the week . . . .  

Where's Andrea Wednesday . . . Each Wednesday, Andrea Miller,  the Executive Director of the Lincoln County (KY) Chamber takes a mystery picture at a member business and posts it on Facebook.  The first person to accurately guess where she is gets their name in a drawing for tickets for an upcoming event they are having (currently the annual dinner taking place in April).  The fun pictures each week help promote Chamber businesses, prizes are involved for those participating,  and the Executive Director has an opportunity to get to know the members better.  

Source: Indiana Chamber Executives Association - Iceaonline.com - Shelli Williams 

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations

Efficiency is doing things right. Effectiveness is doing the right things. – Peter Drucker

Illinois Prosperity Project Gains Momentum

The Illinois Prosperity Project is built on this belief: When Illinois citizens are informed and active in government and elections, our families, our communities and our state benefit.
The Illinois Prosperity Project is a nonpartisan endeavor of employers and trade associations located throughout the state and is designed to help educate our citizens about issues that impact job security, economic competitiveness, wages and benefits – and ultimately our future prosperity.
  
Through the Illinois Prosperity Project, employers and employees can obtain information and materials that explain, in simple language and a nonpartisan way, the importance of state and federal elections. This includes information on candidates, issues and public policies that affect job security and the economy – information every citizen should consider when they go to the polls to vote.
Check back frequently to find more information about Illinois elections process, and be sure you and your family are registered to vote and exercise that right during the Primary and General Elections.

Here are the key issues facing Illinois as outlined on the Illinois Prosperity Project website:

Economic Development and Job Creation
Illinois is the fifth-largest industrial state and we are home to numerous dynamic, successful businesses and institutions that comprise a diverse economy.  But our record on job creation has been poor, even long before the economic recession settled in.  State unemployment rates now averages between 9% to 10% with some areas suffering much higher percentages.  In a 2009 report by the American Legislative Exchange Council, Illinois ranked 48th in the nation in terms of job creation.  Our state has shed over 52,000 manufacturing jobs alone over the past year as more than 700 manufacturing firms have shut their doors. 
Education and Workforce Development
The Illinois Chamber of Commerce recognizes that the strength of the state’s economy and ability of its workforce to compete on a global scale rests on the quality of the state’s education system.  The state and the business community fail when students are not challenged to succeed.  The Illinois Chamber believes we should build a stronger compact between employers and educators so we are preparing our children for the jobs of today and tomorrow – whether that job demands a college education, a graduate degree, skills training in community or technical colleges, high school degree or union apprenticeships. 
Environment and Energy
United States is facing the worst economic challenges since the Great Depression and Illinois is faring worse than most. A new report from the American Legislative Exchange Council ranks our economic performance among the ten worst states in the country and our unemployment rate of 11% exceeds the national average. 
Healthcare
Illinois employers spend approximately $25 billion annually for health care benefits. While the cost of health care is important, employers and consumers must be able to expect quality health care from medical providers and their health plans.  Healthy employees are productive employees.  With quality and efficiency improvements, Illinois will be better postured to increase access to health care coverage.  Without such improvements, the number of uninsured will increase and Illinois will be a decreasingly attractive state for businesses to locate.
Infrastructure
Illinois’ transportation system plays a pivotal role in the nation’s ability to move goods and people because of its geographic location and extensive road, rail, airport and waterway network.  It also serves as a critical factor in maintaining the current and future economic vitality of the state.

International Trade
Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport is an established gateway to the world. The concentration of foreign consulates and ethnic diversity of Chicago are indicative of a world-class city. Measured by container cargo traffic alone, Chicago is ranked the second busiest port in the world.
Taxes/State Finances 

In order to stimulate growth and attract new jobs to Illinois, the state must significantly improve its business tax climate.  The non-partisan Tax Foundation gave Illinois dismal marks for its high sales, unemployment insurance and property taxes, which ultimately culminated in a state business tax climate ranking of 30th in the nation- a drop of seven slots from the previous fiscal year. 
Tort Reform
Illinois’ legal climate is one of the worst in the nation, ranking 46th out of 50 states for lawsuit abuse, according to Lawsuit Climate 2008: Ranking the States – an annual Harris Interactive Survey conducted for the U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform.  In addition, Cook County was named the second least fair and reasonable litigation environments in the nation.
Workers' Compensation
Workers’ compensation in Illinois is in dire need of reform.  Illinois’ workers compensation costs are the 11th highest in the nation, up from 21st in the nation just 3 years ago.  Furthermore, the state’s workers’ compensation costs are far higher than surrounding states, which means Illinois is growing more susceptible to losing jobs to bordering states where companies can find relief from these increasing costs.

Contact:

Todd Maisch

Vice President of Government Affairs

217. 522. 5512 ext. 233

tmaisch@ilchamber.org

Andrew Proctor

Director of Advocacy

217. 522. 5512 ext. 296

aproctor@ilchamber.org

Sarah Frye

Manager of Legislative Relations

217. 522. 5512 ext 243

sfrye@ilchamber.org

Source: Illinois Prosperity Project - www.IllinoisProsperity.org 
  
Newsmakers 2014: Steve Halter, president of the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce

The year 2013 was a great one for Steve Halter, president of the Greater Poplar Bluff Area Chamber of Commerce. First, he received his professional economic development certification, and then he won the Glenn Shepard Excellence in Leadership Award, chosen from a small pool of nominees nationwide.

"I love to help businesses succeed and to promote the community that I grew up in," says Halter, whose childhood home is less than a mile from his office. "I am most passionate about seeing our community prosper. Many people want to focus on growth, but I believe that growth is always a result of business prosperity." Read More: Southeast Missourian

Illinois Chamber Announces Todd Maisch as New CEO; Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce Announces New Executive Director; Arkansas Fellowship Program Aims to Attract, Keep Entrepreneurial Talent; Deadline in 4 Days; Michigan named an All★Vet State by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation; Coggno Training Through the Flint & Genesee (Michigan) Chamber of Commerce

20-year Chamber Veteran Takes Illinois Chamber Reins July 1

The Illinois Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted today to appoint Todd C. Maisch the new CEO of the Illinois Chamber. His term will begin on July 1.

As executive vice president, Maisch oversees the Business Services Division, Government Affairs and the Membership and Marketing Department of the Illinois Chamber. Maisch also is responsible for the overall development and implementation of the Chamber’s government affairs program.

“I am honored to lead an institution I have been part of for the past 20 years,” said Maisch, 48. “I believe in the Chamber’s mission to serve as the unifying voice of the Illinois business community. And I am eager to build on the foundation of previous leaders who supported the success of our members and Illinois businesses.”

Current Illinois Chamber CEO Douglas L. Whitley, 64, announced his retirement in September 2013, effective June 30, 2014. At that time, the Board of Directors committed to a timeline that would allow three months of transition for the new CEO.

Source: Illinois Chamber of Commerce website
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Table Rock Lake (Missouri) Chamber of Commerce Announces New Executive Director; Long-time Area Businesswoman Sheila Thomas Accepts the Position

  
(Kimberling City, MO  3/ 11 /2014)  Following a search for a new executive director for the Table Rock Lake Chamber of Commerce (TRL), the search committee announces it is filling the position with a long-time area businesswoman known for her professionalism and strength of positive personality.  Sheila Thomas, most recently serving as the executive director of the Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation, is accepting the new role. Thomas will join the TRL staff on April 7.

“We are very pleased that Sheila Thomas, with her background and connections, wants to do this job,” said Bob Cox, Search Committee Chair, TRL Boardman and owner of The Harbor on Indian Point. “Sheila is extremely skilled in areas of leadership and organizational development and has vast knowledge of the area.”    

Thomas, who was a project director for a Small Business Administration grant in Southwest Missouri prior to joining Ozarks Rivers Heritage Foundation, was also a real estate broker in the Tri-Lakes area for nearly two decades – making her very acquainted with all the different faces of the lakes area, from the large-scale resorts and businesses to the smaller family-owned operations. Read More: Table Rock Chamber

The Arkansas Fellowship seeks to keep our graduates and promising business leaders at home in Arkansas. Application deadline is March 24th

Lead by an executive director & non-profit board, The Arkansas Fellowship seeks to attract and retain Arkansas’s brightest entrepreneurial talent by partnering with the state’s leading universities and most ambitious companies. The Arkansas Fellowship offers a two-year fellowship program to a select group of graduating college seniors—focusing on developing the next generation of Arkansas’ entrepreneurs and business leaders. Read more: Arkansas Fellowship 
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Michigan named an All★Vet State by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation

LANSING – Michigan is one of three states selected by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring our Heroes program to pilot its new All^★Vet States initiative, Governor Rick Snyder announced today at the Governor’s Economic Summit.
“This is an exciting program that recognizes the work we are doing to attract and retain veteran talent here in Michigan,” Snyder said. “The All^★Vet States initiative gives us a chance to highlight the incredible opportunities, services and support Michigan offers to attract and hire transitioning service members and military spouses.”
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring our Heroes program is launching the new initiative with three states, Michigan, Iowa and Tennessee. Participating states will be featured on the Hiring our Heroes website, and each state will have its own webpage dedicated to identifying the resources and services available to veterans and military families. Read More: Michigan Veteran Affairs Agency

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Chamber Education: Coggno Training Through the Flint & Genesee (Michigan) Chamber of Commerce

(FLINT, Mich., March 11, 2014) — Build a more productive and skilled workforce with business training opportunities through the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber has expanded its business training offerings to include Coggno online training courses.
“We’re excited to offer these affordable training resources to our members and the business community in Flint & Genesee,” said Tim Herman, Chamber CEO. “Our partnership with Coggno enables us to assist local businesses in developing their greatest asset – their people.” Read More: Flint & Genesee Chamber  

#LoveMyChamber - Return on Investment (ROI) From My Annual Chamber Membership - Reason #21 - Free Marketing Plan for Lisle (Illinois) Area Chamber Members; Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder to speak at Chamber Alliance of Macomb County Event; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quote: Peter Drucker

What happens when a innovative chamber of commerce forges a private enterprise - higher education team? A collaborative partnership and a win-win proposition for both Benedictine University and the members of the Lisle Area Chamber of Commerce. I met with Tom Althoff, Lisle Area Chamber President/CEO to see what new ways chamber members get a great return on investment (ROI) with their annual memberships.
For 2014, the Lisle chamber has created a new opportunity for each chamber member to get a complete marketing plan through the Benedictine University MBA program. Students prepare a marketing plan for the individual business they are assigned. The students get an opportunity to have hands-on training in their field of study. Businesses get a customized marketing study done for their individual company by students extremely familiar with new branding concepts and technologies.
Prior to rolling this benefit out to their membership, the chamber created a test drive program giving the post-graduate  students the opportunity to create a marketing plan for the Lisle Area Chamber of Commerce. The result was an exceptional 65 page report brimming with suggestions for the chamber, according to Tom Althoff. Considering the test drive a success, the chamber is now ready to offer this program as a free service to all of its membership in 2014.

Reasons to #LoveMyChamber - The Chamber Membership Value Proposition - Chamber of Commerce annual dues: Around $250 (Lisle Area Chamber -$270). Value of the Chamber of Commerce Benefit Reason #21 - Free Marketing Partnership and Custom Report from cutting-edge Benedictine University Marketing Students - Around $1,000  - Return On Investment Features #1-#21 = $16,895; Total Return On Investment for Annual Chamber Membership - 6758 %.

Michigan Gov. Snyder to speak at Macomb Chamber Event

The Chamber Alliance of Macomb County will welcome Gov. Rick Snyder on Friday, May 16 at MacRay Banquet Center, 30675 North River Road in Harrison Township. The Chamber Alliance consists of Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Macomb Chamber of Commerce, Anchor Bay Chamber of Commerce, Romeo Chamber of Commerce, Richmond Chamber of Commerce and Roseville-Eastpointe Chamber of Commerce. Read more: Macomb Daily Announcements


Famous Chamber of Commerce Quote:

“The aim of marketing is to know and understand the customer so well the product or service fits them and sells itself.”

-Peter Drucker

 

Proposed Kentucky Bill Would Promote P3s (Public Private Partnerships) in Kentucky; Dan Gilbert's Down Payment on Detroit's Revival; Greater Seymour Chamber (Indiana) Names Tricia Bechman President; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quote: Dale Carnegie: the way to develop self-confidence...

In July, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce released a report entitled Private Solutions to Public Problems: Partnerships to Build a Better Government. The Chamber report, which was the subject of an earlier post, describes the benefits that public-private partnerships ("P3s") can provide to the Commonwealth. As a refresher, a public-private partnership typically involves a working relationship between a state or local government unit and a private business under which the business builds, finances and/or operates a project the governmental agency would have financed, built and operated in years past. The Kentucky Chamber report provides a broader definition that includes the provision by private entities of a wider variety of government services. Read more:  The National Law Review

Dan Gilbert's Down Payment on Detroit's Revival

In the last five years, the midtown and downtown districts saw private capital investment of about $12 billion — leading to about 12,000 new jobs in those neighboring districts, according to the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Sandy Baruah, president and chief executive of the Detroit Chamber, stressed the early role of private investment in creating conditions for the city’s turnaround. “There is not some federal program that is artificially creating this vibrancy,” he said. “These are private dollars coming in, private investors, private businesses, and private individuals who are moving downtown.’ Read more in Free Enterprise

Greater Seymour Chamber (Indiana) Names Tricia Bechman President

The Greater Seymour Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has named Tricia Bechman the new president. She has served as executive director of the Franklin Chamber of Commerce for more than a decade. Current president (and mentor to many in the chamber industry) Bill Bailey will be retiring after an appropriate period of transition.
Source: Chamber news release

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quote:

“The way to develop self-confidence is to do the thing you fear and to get a record of successful experiences behind you.” - Dale Carnegie

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: Moments of Impact: How to Design Strategic Conversations That Accelerate Change By Chris Ertel and Lisa Kay Solomon; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation on Political Action; Mason County Receives in Progress Status from Kentucky Work Ready Communities Certification Program

Moments of Impact: How to Design Strategic Conversations That Accelerate Change

By Chris Ertel and Lisa Kay Solomon 

In our fast-changing world, leaders are increasingly confronted by messy, multifaceted challenges that require collaboration to resolve. But the standard methods for tackling these challenges—meetings packed with data-drenched presentations, or brainstorming sessions that circle back to nowhere—just don’t deliver.

Great strategic conversations generate breakthrough insights by combining the best ideas of people with different backgrounds and perspectives. They lift participants above the fray of daily concerns and narrow self-interest, reconnecting them to their greater, collective purpose. And they create deep, lasting impacts that propel organizations forward.

Drawing on decades of experience as innovation strategists, Moments of Impact unveils a simple, creative process that leaders and their teams can use to unlock solutions to their most vexing issues.
 

Source: www.MomentsofImpactbook.com 

Famous Chamber of Commerce quotation on Political Action:
“Business must learn the lesson long ago learned by labor and other self-interest groups. This lesson is that political power is necessary; that such power must be assiduously cultivated and that, when necessary, it must be used aggressively and with determination – without the reluctance which has been so characteristic of American business.” 

-- Justice Lewis F. Powell, 1971, in a memo

 to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, prior to

 his appointment to the U.S. Supreme Court

Mason County Receives in Progress Status from Kentucky Work Ready Communities Certification Program

After more than a year of hard work and community partnerships, Mason County has achieved Kentucky Work Ready Communities in Progress status with the state. The announcement was made Thursday by Gov. Steve Beshear.
The Kentucky Work Ready Communities certification program from the Kentucky Workforce Investment Board and the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet assures employers that a local workforce has the talent and skills necessary to staff existing jobs and to master the innovative technologies new jobs will require. Vicki Steigleder, executive director of the Maysville-Mason County Area Chamber of Commerce has taken on the responsibility of coordinating a committee and data for the Work Ready Communities initiative. Read more in The Ledger Independent

#Chamber Executive Ongoing Education New Idea: "Good to Great!" a Single Question: Can a Good Company Become a Great Company, and if so, How?; Nancy Spivey Moving to Executive Director of Dearborn County Chamber; Owensboro Community & Technical College Expansion Would be a Boost to Region; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotes on Political Advocacy: If you’re not at the table...

Start with 1,435 good companies. Examine their performance over 40 years. Find the 11 companies that became great. Now here's how you can do it too. Lessons on eggs, flywheels, hedgehogs, buses, and other essentials of business that can help you transform your company.
I want to give you a lobotomy about change. I want you to forget everything you’ve ever learned about what it takes to create great results. I want you to realize that nearly all operating prescriptions for creating large-scale corporate change are nothing but myths.
The Myth of the Change Program: This approach comes with the launch event, the tag line, and the cascading activities.
The Myth of the Burning Platform: This one says that change starts only when there’s a crisis that persuades “unmotivated” employees to accept the need for change.
The Myth of Stock Options: Stock options, high salaries, and bonuses are incentives that grease the wheels of change.
The Myth of Fear-Driven Change: The fear of being left behind, the fear of watching others win, the fear of presiding over monumental failure—all are drivers of change, we’re told.
The Myth of Acquisitions: You can buy your way to growth, so it figures that you can buy your way to greatness.
The Myth of Technology-Driven Change: The breakthrough that you’re looking for can be achieved by using technology to leapfrog the competition.
The Myth of Revolution: Big change has to be wrenching, extreme, painful—one big, discontinuous, shattering break.
Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong. Totally wrong.
Here are the facts of life about these and other change myths.

This book addresses a single question: can a good company become a great company, and if so, how? Based on a five-year research project comparing teams that made a leap to those that did not, Good to Great shows that greatness is not primarily a function of circumstance, but largely a matter of conscious choice, and discipline. This book discusses concepts like Level 5 Leadership, First Who (first get the right people on the bus, then figure out where to drive it), and the Flywheel. 

Source: JimCollins.com

Nancy Spivey Moving to Executive Director of Dearborn County Chamber
Nancy Spivey, formerly COO, Senior VP of the Northern Kentucky Chamber is the new Executive Director of the Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce (Lawrenceburg, Indiana). 

Source: Glenn Shepard  

Owensboro Community & Technical College Expansion Would be a Boost to Region

The Kentucky General Assembly is now more than halfway through their 2014 session, and there has been much activity in their budget building process. At the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce, we've kept our ear to the ground on the progress of bills and funding of projects that are important to our membership and the region. One of those projects at the top of the Community Priorities list is the Owensboro Community & Technical College's (OCTC) Advanced Technology Center (ATC) Phase II. Read More: Messenger-Inquirer

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotes on Political Advocacy:

If you’re not at the table, you’re probably on the menu.

Richard Studley, Michigan Chamber of Commerce

#bestchamber Practices - Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce Focus: Putting Stock Into Little Rock; 5 Must-Have Apps for Small Businesses; Conway Chamber, Development Corporation Hires New Senior VP, Counsel; Overcoming Obstacles to Political Advocacy by your Chamber of Commerce

Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce Focus: Putting Stock Into Little Rock

To more effectively compete with the economic development efforts of other major metros, the chamber is increasing its private Stock in the Rock economic development investment by as much as 100 percent, empowering the organization to better: 1) develop our economy; 2) develop our community; 3) advocate on behalf of business; 4) keep, attract and grow talent; 5) market and communicate our opportunities and successes. Read more in Arkansas Business

5 Must-Have Apps for Small Businesses

1. Dropbox
Over 200 million users and 4 million businesses — including Foursquare, Kayak, and Khan Academy — use Dropbox, a testament to how user friendly this cloud-based file-sharing app is. Invite your friends, family, and teammates to any folder in your Dropbox, and it’s as if you saved that folder straight to their computer. 4 more Must-Have Apps here at Free Enterprise

Chamber People

Conway Chamber, Development Corporation Hires New Senior VP, Counsel

The Conway Chamber of Commerce and Conway Development Corporation recently hired a new senior vice president and general counsel. Luke Ferguson, most recently a Deputy Prosecuting Attorney for the 20th Judicial District, joined the Chamber and CDC on Feb. 3 in the position.

The Greenbrier native will be responsible for contract review and negotiation, risk management and human resources. In addition, Ferguson will aid with economic development activities, such as the proposed Central Landing. Read More: Arkansas Business

Overcoming obstacles to political advocacy in your chamber

“It’s not our job and our by-laws prohibit political activity.”

Your by-laws can be changed to match your mission, or your mission statement should be changed to match your by-laws.

Cholly Smith, U.S. Chamber of Commerce