Southwest Indiana Chamber Announces Restaurant Challenge, 250K Prize; President of Georgetown Toyota plant will chair Kentucky Chamber board of directors; Minnesota Chamber of Commerce names Bill Blazar interim president; Chamber Collaboration: Arkansas Venture Center Names Operations Team; Chamber heart: Peoria Area Chamber, others help girls of stolen lemonade stand; Chamber News: Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing award nominees sought; Meridian Technology Center and Stillwater Chamber Partner for HR Matters Series; “Managing Difficult Performance Reviews”; Iowa Tax Free Holiday Aug. 1-2; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Coalition Building) - Jack Hess

Southwest Indiana Chamber Announces Restaurant Challenge, 250K Prize

The Southwest Indiana Chamber is offering $250,000 to restaurateurs and entrepreneurs who have the right plan for a restaurant in the old Roger’s Jewelers building on the corner of Fourth and Main Street in downtown Evansville.

Joshua Armstrong, director of the Downtown Alliance for the Southwest Indiana Chamber, said those interested have until October 15 to submit menus, business plans and biographies to the Main Course Restaurant Challenge Committee. Once finalists are selected, Armstrong said there will be a meet and greet and a cook-off in November. Read more: Tri-Statehomepage.com

President of Georgetown Toyota plant will chair Kentucky Chamber board of directors

During its Annual Meeting on July 21, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce announced that Wil James, Jr., president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing of Kentucky, will chair the board of directors when the term of Planter’s Bank president/CEO Elizabeth McCoy of Hopkinsville ends on Oct. 1.

Wil James, president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, will chair the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce board of directors when the term of Planter’s Bank president/CEO Elizabeth McCoy of Hopkinsville ends on Oct. 1. James is shown here at the Kentucky Chamber’s Business Summit and Annual Meeting earlier this week. (Photo by Tim Webb)

Kevin Canafax, vice president of public affairs for Fidelity Investments — Midwest Region, has been named chair-elect for 2015.
In July 2010, James became the seventh president of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky, Inc. James is the first African-American to serve as president of Toyota’s Georgetown plant. Read more: Lane Report

Minnesota Chamber of Commerce names Bill Blazar interim president

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has named Bill Blazar interim president, according to a statement released Wednesday. Blazar will hold the position previously held by David Olson, the chamber's president for more than two decades who died this month after an 18-month fight with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Read more: TwinCities.com

Chamber Collaboration: Arkansas Venture Center Names Operations Team

The Arkansas Venture Center announced Wednesday the installment of an operational team that marks the nonprofit organization's first official hirings since its launch in May.
Joining AVC co-founder, president and CEO Lee Watson on staff are Caroline Ford as director of communications and development and Marshal Kenneday as director of operations.
AVC was founded in 2013 and officially launched in May with a $500,000 matching grant from the state. It serves local entrepreneurs with nationally recognized networking and mentorship programs. Read more: Arkansas Business

Chamber heart: Peoria Area Chamber, others help girls of stolen lemonade stand

The central Illinois community rose to the occasion Thursday to support the two 8-year-old girls who were robbed of their lemonade stand two days ago.

The Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, upon hearing the disheartening tale of Taylor Haddock and Aly Ortega’s stolen lemonade stand, started brainstorming a way to reimburse the girls Thursday morning. Later that afternoon, Jeff Griffin, president of the Peoria Area Chamber of Commerce, stood on the front lawn of the Haddock’s home to present the girls with an honorary membership into the Chamber of Commerce along with two $50 gift cards for area businesses. Read more: Peoria Journall-Star

Chamber News: Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing award nominees sought

Advance, the economic development program of the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, is soliciting nominations for its 15th annual Northeast Wisconsin Manufacturing Awards of Distinction.
Awards will recognize companies in categories of workforce development, small company (1-99 employees), medium company (100-299) and large company (300-plus). Read more: Green Bay Press-Gazette

Meridian Technology Center and Stillwater Chamber Partner for HR Matters Series; “Managing Difficult Performance Reviews”

As a manager, it’s critical that you say these words on occasion: “We need to discuss your performance.” Unfortunately, this statement brings discomfort to managers at every level.
On August 12, as part of the ongoing HR Matters series co-sponsored by the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce and Meridian Technology Center, Mackenzie Wilfong, Assistant University Counsel, Oklahoma State University, will share “Managing Difficult Performance Reviews.” Read more: 1600KUSH.com

Iowa Tax Free Holiday Aug. 1-2

The Cherokee Chamber of Commerce encourages you to take advantage of the Iowa Tax Free Holiday by shopping with businesses in Cherokee August 1-2. The annual Iowa Tax Free Holiday is held the first Friday and Saturday of August and is intended to coincide with annual back to school shopping for families. On these days, no sales tax, including local option sales tax, will be collected on sales of an article of clothing or footwear having a selling price less than $100. Read more: Chronicle-Times

 Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Coalition Building)   

“All Progress happens at the speed of trust.” - Jack Hess        

07/31/14 

John Dussman

Midwest Manager

www.villageprofile.com

800-600-0134 x239

Cell: (312)-320-8852

33 N. Geneva St.; Elgin, IL 60120

jdussman.vp@villageprofilemail.com

Midwest Chamber of Commerce Blog - News for Chamber Professionals Every Day 

 follow me for chamber news/events

state/national continuing education

Chamber Map - Chamber Directory Request For Proposal (RFP):

http://www.vp-mobile.com/form-joe/contact.html

Tulsa Regional Chamber Raises Record Amount; How to target Gen Z, the new consumer on the block, via mobile; New Iowa City Businesses Get Scholarships to Join Chamber; GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT: SECOND QUARTER 2014 (ADVANCE ESTIMATE); Chamber news: Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Business Development Mission to Japan and South Korea - An Exciting Opportunity to Expand Your Business in Asia; Chamber issue: Wisconsin Transportation fund amendment sought; Chamber Training: SBDC Michigan Offers Venture Plan Online Courses; Batavia Illinois Chamber of Commerce looking to hire a Member Relations Specialist; Chamber news: St. Louis Matchmaking Event for Veterans and Service-Disabled Veterans; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Leadership) John F. Kennedy

Tulsa Regional Chamber Raises Record Amount

Tulsa Regional Chamber volunteers raised more than $3.65 million for the organization during its 20th-annual resource campaign, edging last year’s record of $3.6 million and easily surpassing its goal of $3.3 million, chamber leaders announced at a victory celebration at Tulsa Country Club recently.
The volunteers worked in corporate teams over 10 weeks to sell sponsorships to the chamber’s programs, meetings, events and publications. The total of $3,658,722 will support about 30 percent of the chamber’s annual budget. Read more: GTR Newspapers

Chamber marketing: How to target Gen Z, the new consumer on the block, via mobile

Their attention spans are getting shorter, they think in 4D, they communicate with symbols and images and their reliance on mobile devices has left them with a lack of situational awareness; this is Generation Z, a group of digital natives who should not be ignored despite their youth.
This next generation of consumers has somewhat been neglected as brands and marketers have been focused on Gen Y, or Millennials, for more than a decade now, making them the most researched generation in history according to ad agency Sparks & Honey. But it may be time for marketers to shift their focus – because the Gen Z group, born from 1995 on, comprises 29.5 percent of the population and will continue to out-populate each generation that has come before it. Read more: Mobile Marketer

New Iowa City Businesses Get Scholarships to Join Chamber

The Iowa City area is already a place receptive to new businesses and entrepreneurship. The Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce is giving some businesses a helping hand that has been making all the difference over the past two years, for businesses operating for less than 11 months. When starting a business, money can be tight. For small start ups, just a little bit of cash, less than $500, can make the difference between success and failure. When John Krakauer and his Co-Founders started Sculpt, their outlook was a lot different than it is today. "We were thinking really small when we started, we were thinking local small businesses are a perfect way to start learning about brands and connecting them to a base that we know really well," said Krakauer. A little more than two years later, they have a wall full of clients who they help with social media services, appealing to a wide range of people. It's partially thanks to money provided by the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce. "I was looking for a way to bridge that gap, about how can we serve these young people legitimately as chamber members but then not ask too much when the resources can be very very slim," said Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Nancy Quellhorst. The answer is a scholarship that covers 75% of the Chamber's $300 annual membership fee for each of two years. The total amount of just $450 that pollinates the local economy in a way that no other nearby Chamber of Commerce does. See More at: CBS KGAN TV 2

GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT: SECOND QUARTER 2014 (ADVANCE ESTIMATE)

Real gross domestic product -- the output of goods and services produced by labor and property located in the United States -- increased at an annual rate of 4.0 percent in the second quarter of 2014, according to the "advance" estimate released by the Bureau of Economic Analysis. In the first quarter, real GDP decreased 2.1 percent (revised). Read more: GovDelivery.com

Chamber news: Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker Business Development Mission to Japan and South Korea - An Exciting Opportunity to Expand Your Business in Asia

Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker will lead a Healthcare and Energy Business Development Mission to Asia with stops in Japan and South Korea from October 19-23, 2014. This business development mission will promote U.S. exports to Asia by helping U.S. companies launch or increase their business in the healthcare and energy sectors. In both countries, the governments and private sector are investing significant money to develop both sectors.

Business Development Missions organized by the Department of Commerce provide a unique opportunity for businesses interested in exploring export opportunities overseas. Participating U.S. companies will meet with prescreened potential partners, agents, distributors, representatives, and licensees. The agenda will also include meetings with high-level national and local government officials, networking opportunities, and country and industry briefings.

October 19-23, 2014

For more information or to register: http://www.export.gov/japansouthkoreamission2014/

Chamber issue: Wisconsin Transportation fund amendment sought

A statewide group is hoping a constitutional amendment will ensure the transportation fund is used mostly for Wisconsin’s roadways rather than for other purposes. Craig Thompson, executive director of the Transportation Development Association of Wisconsin, spoke about the amendment at a Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce legislative luncheon on Wednesday at Beloit College.
“When we pay income tax and sales tax, that goes into the general fund,” Thompson said. “When you fill up your tank in your car you pay a gas tax...that goes to a separate fund in the transportation fund. Those dollars are supposed to be used for the upkeep of the transportation system. That includes, not just roads and bridges, but our transit system as well.” Read more: Beloit Daily News

Chamber Training: SBDC Michigan Offers Venture Plan Online Courses

This 8-week online workshop guides you through the business planning process. You’ll have online access to small business experts, business planning software, and a valuable pipeline of resources to help you complete your business plan.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:
Both current and future business owners who need to develop or update their business plans. 

THE RESULTS:
Upon finishing the course, you will have: 
•   A complete business plan
•   Continued access to a SBDC business consultant in your area
•   A pipeline of valuable resources to launch or grow your business 

THE COST: This course is being offered for only $99 (list price is $450).  The course is available at no cost to Veterans by calling 616-331-7370 or emailing sbdc@gvsu.edu. 

Tuesday, August 5, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
to Register click on: August 5 Venture Plan Online 

Wednesday, September 3, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
To Register click on:  September 3 Venture Plan Online
 Tuesday, October 7, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
To Register click on:  October 7 Venture Plan Online

*Registration is due one week prior to the start date of the course*
The Venture Plan Online course runs for 8 consecutive weeks. Each session takes place on the same day of the week, during the same time slot as the chosen start date. For more information call 616.331.7370. 

Batavia Illinois Chamber of Commerce looking to hire a Member Relations Specialist

 
The Member Relations Specialist of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce has the primary responsibility of organizing and conducting the daily office operations of the Chamber, including all aspects of member relations, events, accounts receivable, and communication. Coordinates with the Executive Director to project a clear and consistent message to Chamber members. Read more: Batavia Chamber

Chamber news: St. Louis Matchmaking Event for Veterans and Service-Disabled Veterans

The format for the veteran matchmaking event is as follows: Each veteran-owned business will have approximately 8-10 minutes to pitch/speak/market their business to the federal contracting audience, utilizing PowerPoint or any type of communication you choose. During this time, the contracting audience will be allowed to ask specific questions about the product or service in this open forum format.

Thursday, August 28, 2014
9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
St. Louis County Library
Headquarters Auditorium
1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63131

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)


“Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.” ~ John F. Kennedy

Forbes 38/50

07/30/14

John Dussman

Midwest Manager

www.villageprofile.com

800-600-0134 x239

Cell: (312)-320-8852

33 N. Geneva St.; Elgin, IL 60120

jdussman.vp@villageprofilemail.com

Midwest Chamber of Commerce Blog - News for Chamber Professionals Every Day 

 follow me for chamber news/events

state/national continuing education

Chamber Map - Chamber Directory Request For Proposal (RFP):

http://www.vp-mobile.com/form-joe/contact.html

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: One Minute Manager - by: Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, M.D.; Chamber report: Minnesota has one of highest minimum wages in nation; Chamber Best Practices: Onboarding 101: 3 Companies That Roll Out the Red Carpet for New Employees; Chamber Event: 29th Annual National Championship Musky Open August 15-17, 2014; Chamber issue: Questions of cost, choice frame S.D. medical debate; Chamber Event: Pioneer Day To Celebrate ‘True Grit’; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Attitude) - Amaka Imani Nkosazana

One Minute Manager - by: Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, M.D.

For over twenty years, thousands of top managers and Fortune 500 companies nationwide have followed this book's techniques, thereby increasing productivity, job satisfaction, and personal prosperity. These very real results were achieved through learning management techniques that spell profitability for the organization and it's employees.

The One Minute Manager^® is a concise, easily read story demonstrating three very practical management techniques. The story unfolds to reveal several studies in medicine and the behavioral sciences that explain clearly why these apparently simple methods work so well with so many people. By the book's end you will know how to apply them to your own situation.

Chamber report: Minnesota has one of highest minimum wages in nation

Minnesota now has one of the highest minimum wages in the nation, following action by the 2014 Legislature, reports the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. The first increase takes effect Aug. 1.
The 2014, 2015, and 2016 increases take effect each August; the 2018 increase begins in January. Businesses also should begin planning for the automatic inflation increases beginning in 2018. Hometownsource.com

Chamber Best Practices: Onboarding 101: 3 Companies That Roll Out the Red Carpet for New Employees
At this point, there’s a good chance you’ve heard stories of how intensely competitive it is to get a job offer from a hot startup. You’re also probably very well aware of the amazing perks and benefits that tenured employees of more established companies like Facebook are treated to. But what happens in between?
A lot, it turns out.
The first few weeks at a new job are a critically important indicator of whether new employees will successfully adapt and ultimately contribute to the workplace. With startups leading the way, the business world has now started to take notice, and a growing number of companies are investing in orientation and training to overhaul this previously overlooked aspect of hiring. Underscoring its enhanced clout, the process has even earned its own moniker in corporate nomenclature: onboarding. Read more: Free Enterprise

Chamber Event: 29th Annual National Championship Musky Open August 15-17, 2014

The Eagle River Area Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center, along with Musky Clubs Alliance of Wisconsin Inc., are proud to bring the National Championship Musky Open to the Vilas County Fairgrounds in Eagle River on August 15-17, 2014. Over 1,200 anglers participated in this event in 2013 and we are looking forward to that many again this year. The National Championship Musky Open is a total catch and release tournament that provides great family fun for all ages and skill levels. Read more: Outdoorsfirst.com

Chamber issue: Questions of cost, choice frame S.D. medical debate

Two sides of South Dakota’s medical community will face off this fall to vie for the hearts and minds of voters. The state’s specialty hospitals and medical association are backing Initiated Measure 17, which would require many health care plans to cover any medical provider who is willing to accept their rates. But the state’s general hospitals and insurance providers are fighting that, saying it’s an unneeded regulation that will raise rates. And both sides are loaded with money and willing to spend it, setting up an expensive duel on South Dakota’s airwaves, billboards and mailboxes. The claims are bold.
“There’s nothing more fundamental about the doctor-patient interaction than being able to pick the doctor you want to help you with whatever medical condition you’re facing,” said Blake Curd, a state senator and doctor who is a supporter and adviser to the pro-IM 17 side. David Owen, president of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry and a leader of the anti-IM 17 side, calls it “one more layer of government control over health care.” Read more: Argus Leader

Chamber Event: Pioneer Day To Celebrate ‘True Grit’

The Cleveland Chamber of Commerce’s Pioneer Day is set for Saturday, Sept. 20. This year’s theme is “Cleveland: True Grit.” The theme stems from the Oklahoma Department of Libraries’ 2014 “Oklahoma Reads” program  which is encouraging readers throughout the state to journey to the Choctaw Nation of the late 19th Century and read Charles Portis’s classic novel, True Grit. Cleveland’s Jay C. Byers Memorial Library will be involved in helping the Chamber carryout the “True Grit” theme.

 An ideal Oklahoma read, True Grit takes place in Indian Territory. Michelle Miller, director of Cleveland’s public library said western literature remains a popular genre with Sooner State readers. “It’s the quest for justice, the adventure in a lawless frontier, and the unique and compelling characters that come together to make this novel a classic of American literture and one that has been enjoyed by readers of all ages,” Miller said. Read more: Cleveland American

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Attitude)

“Separate yourself from those who hinder your vision. Make a choice to walk away from the trap set to ensnare you. Realize when someone is pulling you backwards every time you take a step forward. Separate from them and the result of your action will be a life of success.”
― Amaka Imani Nkosazana

 
www.goodreads.com

Top 7 things overheard: Head of Michigan Chamber of Commerce, state Sen. Mike Green pay visit to Bay City; Stephen Bell selected as new president and CEO of Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance, chamber; Politically Speaking: Missouri Chamber Chief Mehan Upbeat On Transportation Tax Prospects; Chamber news: Oklahoma Tax-free weekend begins Friday; Hutchinson Chamber News: Hutch ahead of development curve, construction official says; Chamber Partnership: PROGRESS: Recognizing the many businesses in the Waseca area; Green Bay Chamber: Wage, benefit study participants sought; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)

Top 7 things overheard: Head of Michigan Chamber of Commerce, state Sen. Mike Green pay visit to Bay City

For Rich Studley, president and CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, his visit to Bay City this week was a chance to see the town in a fresh light.
"I came in last night to stay at the Doubletree," he told a room full of business and local government leaders at an event held Thursday, July 24, at Old City Hall restaurant, 814 Saginaw St. "The hotel is full, the parking lot is more than full. There are buses, there are cars on the sidewalk … there's a festival downtown.
"Gov. Snyder talks a lot about Michigan being the comeback state," he continued. "I think we're going to have to nominate Bay City for being the comeback city." Read more: M Live

Stephen Bell selected as new president and CEO of Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance, chamber

A nationwide search has ended with Stephen Bell being selected the new president and CEO of the Arkadelphia Regional Economic Development Alliance and Area Chamber of Commerce. Although Bell was offered and accepted the position Tuesday, a final vote was needed before the announcement could be made public Wednesday afternoon. Bell was one of three finalists selected and brought to Clark County Sunday evening. Read more: Stuttgard Daily Leader

Politically Speaking: Missouri Chamber Chief Mehan Upbeat On Transportation Tax Prospects

Now based in Jefferson City, Mehan grew up in St. Louis, graduating from St. Louis University High. He worked on several GOP campaigns and had a job with Washington University when the state chamber came knocking in 1995 to offer him a position -- just weeks before his wedding. Three years later, Mehan was elevated to the chamber's top post as chief executive and president. He has held that now for 16 years. More information: St Louis Public Radio

 

Chamber news: Oklahoma Tax-free weekend begins Friday

It’s been seven years since Oklahoma legislators passed the tax-free holiday to keep shoppers in Oklahoma. Beginning at midnight Friday, the tax-free weekend returns to Oklahoma and is set to conclude at midnight Aug. 3. The Duncan Chamber of Commerce and Industry hopes Duncan retailers will benefit from the three-day event.

“Their sales are usually a little higher,” Chris Deal, chamber president, said. “It gets them in the mind to go back to school. It’s a good thing for our community and our state.” - See more at: Duncan Banner

 

Hutchinson Chamber News: Hutch ahead of development curve, construction official says

Hutchinson and several parts of Kansas are experiencing a building boom, a Chamber of Commerce luncheon audience was told Wednesday, because of a pent up demand as facilities in various industries age and an aggressive stance by local officials in getting projects approved and a trained workforce developed.
“It’s a perfect storm of construction,” said J.R. Robl, business development and marketing manager at Hutton Construction Corp., Wichita, sponsor of the luncheon at the Hutchinson Town Club. “Commercial, residential, retail and industrial are all doing well. I can tell you it’s the busiest we’ve been in the last 10 years. We’re having trouble finding enough employees.” Read more: Hutchnews.com

Chamber Partnership: PROGRESS: Recognizing the many businesses in the Waseca area

Grow Minnesota! – Assisting businesses in the Waseca Area and Statewide. Businesses across Minnesota continue to benefit from the personalized assistance of Grow Minnesota!, the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce program coordinated with nearly 70 local chambers of commerce and economic development organizations. The statewide program is dedicated to retaining, assisting and growing Minnesota companies. Waseca Chamber has partnered in this program since 2007. Read more: Waseca County News

Green Bay Chamber: Wage, benefit study participants sought

Advance, the economic development program of the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, is seeking participants for the Northeast Wisconsin Chambers Coalition Wage & Benefit Study. Results will provide up-to-date data for companies on a local basis. Read more: Green Bay Press-Gazette

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)

“Leaders are not, as we are often led to think, people who go along with huge crowds following them. Leaders are people who go their own way without caring, or even looking to see, whether anyone is following them. “Leadership qualities” are not the qualities that enable people to attract followers, but those that enable them to do without them. They include, at the very least, courage, endurance, patience, humor, flexibility, resourcefulness, stubbornness, a keen sense of reality, and the ability to keep a cool and clear head, even when things are going badly. True leaders, in short, do not make people into followers, but into other leaders.” ~ John Holt

Forbes 37/50

Chamber Best Practices: Green Bay Area Chamber “About Us” Webpage; Oklahoma Lt. Governor Todd Lamb to keynote annual chamber luncheon; Grand Island Chamber: Nebraska State Fair Needs 300 More Volunteers in a Month; Arkansas State Chamber: Disaster Assistance/Resources Small Business Forum Scheduled for August 21; Chamber news: Lt. Gov. Brian Calley during Grand Haven visit: Personal property ballot proposal will create Michigan jobs; LaPorte, Indiana Chamber to host new teachers luncheon Aug. 7; Friday - 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and possibly your Chamber of Commerce)

The Green Bay Area Chamber “About Us” page from their website

Vision. The Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce will be acclaimed as a leader in building prosperous businesses and a thriving community.  

Mission. To strengthen member businesses through enhancing economic and workforce development, resulting in improved quality of life in our community and region.

5 Strategic Initiatives for 2012-2013 fiscal year.

Lead Through Collaboration.
We will strategically collaborate and connect our members to become the preferred partner of area businesses, local governments, community organizations and educational institutions supporting economic, workforce and community development.

Build Economic Prosperity.
We will focus on developing entrepreneurialism, assisting existing businesses and pursue targeted initiatives, that foster an innovative business environment and strengthen our community’s economy.

Be the Voice of Business.
We will influence issues of public policy that are crucial to building a prosperous business environment.

Enhance Quality of Life.
We will mobilize our membership and resources to improve workforce and community development in ways that will enhance quality of life in the Green Bay area. We will have a primary focus on leadership development to produce strong, engaged business and community leaders.

Strive for Organizational Excellence.
We will engage our members, empower our employees and maximize our resources in a fiscally responsible manner to build an innovative organization aligned with our vision and mission.

For more information about the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, call 920.437.8704 or visit our staff directory for specific program assistance. 

Source: Green Bay Chamber

Oklahoma Lt. Governor Todd Lamb to keynote Norman annual chamber luncheon

Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb will provide the keynote address at the Chamber's Annual Legislative Lunch scheduled for 11:45 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 6 at the National Weather Center. The Lieutenant Governor will speak on state issues that may impact local business and provide his outlook on the coming legislative session. Read more: Norman Transcript

Grand Island Chamber: Nebraska State Fair Needs 300 More Volunteers in a Month

Grand Island is now the "State Fair City" after City Council approved it Tuesday night. The annual 2 week fair has around 500 volunteers signed up but needs 800. So far that's are about 100 less volunteers signed up than this time last year. State Fair volunteers can sign up for about 4 hours of work doing one of dozens of jobs. See more:  1011now.com

Arkansas State Chamber: Disaster Assistance/Resources Small Business Forum Scheduled for August 21

A 2014 Arkansas Small Business Forum – “Disaster Assistance/Resources – Important Things Your Business Should Know” will be held from 9 – 11 a.m. on August 21 in the Bob Lamb Conference Room of the State Chamber Building in Little Rock.

This forum is for trade associations and stakeholder groups representing the small business self-employed taxpayer. Attendees will receive timely information from the American Red Cross, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Join us to hear important information regarding disaster assistance and resources that are available after a presidential disaster declaration has been issued. You will also hear the various steps you can take to make sure you are prepared to stay in business after a major disaster.

There is no cost to attend. To register, contact Susie Marks at smarks@arkansasstatechamber.com or 501-210-4206 or Gregory Metcalf at gregory.o.metcalf@irs.gov or 501-396-5912.

Chamber news: Lt. Gov. Brian Calley during Grand Haven visit: Personal property ballot proposal will create Michigan jobs

Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley sought to make a case for why voters should support personal property tax reform during the August primary at a recent appearance in northwest Ottawa County.
Addressing about 50 people during a legislative breakfast hosted by The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Calley on Friday, July 18 said the measure known as Proposal 1 would help state investors create jobs and stabilize local governmental revenue. Read more: M Live

Hutch ahead of development curve, construction official says

Hutchinson and several parts of Kansas are experiencing a building boom, a Chamber of Commerce luncheon audience was told Wednesday, because of a pent up demand as facilities in various industries age and an aggressive stance by local officials in getting projects approved and a trained workforce developed.
“It’s a perfect storm of construction,” said J.R. Robl, business development and marketing manager at Hutton Construction Corp., Wichita, sponsor of the luncheon at the Hutchinson Town Club. “Commercial, residential, retail and industrial are all doing well. I can tell you it’s the busiest we’ve been in the last 10 years. We’re having trouble finding enough employees.” Read more: Hutchnews.com

LaPorte, Indiana Chamber to host new teachers luncheon Aug. 7

The Greater LaPorte Chamber of Commerce will host the new teachers welcome luncheon on Aug. 7 at the Silver Palace, 1719 State St.
New teachers, professors and administrators will be welcomed from LaPorte, New Prairie, South Central, LaCrosse, Wanatah and Westville public schools and LaLumiere, Brown Mackie College, Ivy Tech State College, and Purdue University North Central.
"We are thrilled to welcome this group of exceptional teachers into our community," said Mike Seitz, President of the Greater LaPorte Chamber of Commerce. Read more: NWI Times

Friday - 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce)

Rule #1 - Always put a volunteer between you and the problem. 

- Patrick McGaughey

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: "Moses on Management" by Rabbi David Baron; From Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce President Randy Zook; Chamber news: Nebraska: No. 3 for Business; One Southern Indiana Hires new Marketing Director; Kentucky Chamber Business Summit: How can Kentucky's work force keep up with the rest of the world?; Columbia Missouri Chamber endorses transportation sales tax proposal; Countryside City Center earns Illinois Chamber award; Dearborn County Indiana Chamber Insight: Agriculture, sustainable economic growth key to prosperity in rural community; Chamber Creativiity: Ottumwa, Iowa installing bulldog statues; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations (Attitude) - E.A. Bucchianeri

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: "Moses on Management" by Rabbi David Baron

50 Leadership Lessons from the Greatest Manager of All Time
Today's rapidly changing global business arena has made undaunted leadership as fleeting as yesterday's software. Yet the wisdom of one reluctant leader -- Moses -- has grown more relevant with each passing millennium. In Moses On Management, Rabbi David Baron -- a nationally renowned spiritual leader and successful entrepreneur-draws surprising parallels between the world of Moses and our own. Through Bible passages, amusing anecdotes, interviews with visionary leaders, and his own insights, Rabbi Baron conveys fifty powerful lessons for today's business managers, including:

• how to bring your staff out of the slave mentality
• why negotiating face-to-face brings optimum results
• why symbols of strength inspire extraordinary effort
• why crises are an open door to change -- and empowerment
• how to use the willing minority to motivate others
• why it's essential to make your staff into believers
• how to balance zero tolerance with 100 percent compassion

In a time of downsizing, mergers, and increasing uncertainty in the market place, Moses On Management is an in valuable resource for finding and sustaining a deeply satisfying balance between life and livelihood.

Source: Barnes & Noble

From Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce President Randy Zook

The Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas is one of the leading advocates for Arkansas businesses at the state and national level.
Our mission is to promote a pro-business, free enterprise agenda and prevent anti-business legislation, regulations and rules. Now more than ever, business matters to our nation’s future. In the global economy, our competitive capacity must be all it can possibly be — and the State Chamber/AIA works every day to make that happen. Read More: Arkansas Business

Chamber news: Nebraska: No. 3 for Business

The ranking is based on independent research, the company said. This is the sixth year in a row that Nebraska has been recognized as one of the most pro-business states in the country by the study.

Nebraska ranked No. 3 in 2014, behind No. 1 Utah and No. 2 Wyoming.

“Gov. Heineman, with the support of the legislature, ‘gets it,’ and they are working hard and smart to develop an economy that will work for the benefit of all its corporate partners and Nebraskans alike,” says Brent Pollina, the co-author of the study.

"We still have work to do, but I am pleased to receive this recognition," Heineman said. Read more: North Platte Bulletin

One Southern Indiana Hires new Marketing Director

One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization serving Clark and Floyd Counties, today announced a new staff addition. Suzanne Ruark has been hired as the new director of marketing and communications.

In her new position, Ruark is responsible for the conception, development and implementation of all of the organization’s marketing strategies, marketing communications and public relations activities. In addition, she will direct the efforts of the communications staff and coordinate with the other departments of 1si, both at a tactical and strategic level.

Wendy Dant Chesser, President and CEO of 1si said, “We are very excited about Suzanne joining the team. Her experience will serve our members and investors well as we share our plans and activities aimed at growing the economy in Southern Indiana and throughout the region.”Read more:  One Southern Indiana

Kentucky Chamber Business Summit: How can Kentucky's work force keep up with the rest of the world? 

How will Kentucky compete?

At the ninth annual Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Business Summit and Annual Meeting, which kicked off in Louisville on Monday, Ted Abernathy, managing partner of North Carolina-based Economic Leadership LLC, tried to answer that question. Abernathy provided some insight on how Kentucky's work force can keep up with the rest of the country and world. Here are some of the lessons he shared with the audience. Read more: Louisville Business First

Columbia Missouri Chamber endorses transportation sales tax proposal

The Columbia Chamber of Commerce has endorsed Amendment 7, a statewide transportation sales tax measure that would provide funding for rebuilding Interstate 70, a new terminal at Columbia Regional Airport and extended hours for Columbia Transit buses. The measure will be on the Aug. 5 ballot.
According to a news release from the chamber, its endorsement is contingent upon the state finding a “permanent resolution” for collecting sales tax from online retail sales and the Columbia City Council making a pledge that the city would chip in a $9 million contribution as part of a revenue sharing plan with the state to pay for a new airport terminal. Read more: Columbia Daily Tribune

Countryside City Center earns Illinois Chamber award

The Illinois Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Illinois Development Council has selected the Countryside City Center as one of six developments in the state to receive a 2014 Edie Award.
“The Economic Development in Illinois awards ‘Edies’ honor those who imagine, design, invest and build in Illinois, and by doing so bring jobs, growth and prosperity to our communities,” said Illinois Chamber of Commerce President Doug Whitley. A presentation was made by Sheila Owens of ComEd who sponsored the event. Read more: Hinsdale Doings

 Dearborn County Indiana Chamber Insight: Agriculture, sustainable economic growth key to prosperity in rural community 

A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of participating, on behalf of the Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce, in the Kiwanis 4-H livestock sale.
It was a fantastic event and we at the Chamber were thrilled to help out the kids who participated and the Dearborn County 4-H with our purchases. There were a number of local businesses participating (though fewer ever year I hear) and it was fantastic to see the business community supporting the rural efforts of this county.
One of the things I have spoken and written about often is how important it is for me to both include the entire county in everything we do here at the Chamber and also how important it is for community leaders to take every opportunity they can to show that there is support and opportunity for area youth. Read more: Dearborn County Register

Chamber Creativiity: Ottumwa, Iowa installing bulldog statues

The City of Bridges will look more like a City of Bulldogs soon with the help of some local high school students. The Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce teamed up with members of the Ottumwa High School to create the organization called, "MOB" which stands for "Making Ottumwa Beautiful."
The group wanted to add art to the community and considered sculptures and murals at other cities across the country. They decided on decorating larger than life size bulldogs. Read more: HeartlandConnection.com

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude)

“Well, if it can be thought, it can be done, a problem can be overcome”
― E.A. Bucchianeri, Brushstrokes of a Gadfly 

www.goodreads.com  

Best Chamber Practices - Sun Prairie, Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce: Top Ten Reasons to join your Chamber of Commerce; U.S. Chamber Foundation: Quad Cities, Hiring Our Heroes hosts workshop, job fair; Main Street, Beatrice Chamber, NGage team up for small business resource session; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude): Colin Powell

Top 10 Reasons to be a Chamber Member

We Promote, Connect, and Advocate for our Members

Year around promotion and networking are at the top of the list 
The Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit membership association with 391 members comprised of 10,946 employees.  We are volunteer driven with a Board of Directors, three full time staff, and thirteen volunteer committees who help implement the Chamber business plan. 
These are just a sampling of the programs and opportunities the Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce offers. The Chamber's mission is to promote our community, businesses and a strong economy and a high quality of life. The following benefits assist in fulfilling our mission and providing valuable benefits to Chamber members.
Sun Prairie Chamber Mission Statement: To foster, promote and protect the business interest of our members and to create a positive economic, political, educational and social climate in Sun Prairie.
View "The Value of Chamber Membership" - a study conducted by The Schapiro Group, Inc and Market Street Services interviewed 2000 people nationwide; click here
Networking:
Luncheons and Mixers are offered monthly September through May. The annual Golf outing offers an informal opportunity for networking. Attend these opportunities and people will get to know and support you as a business partner, customer or client.  
Promotion, Advertising: Website promotion includes a member database online with a location map, contact information, descriptive copy and promotional space for a special offer. FREE website links are provided to members! Our website receives nearly 2 million hits per year. Members are promoted in print publications and newspaper features. Advertising open only to members includes the annual Community Guide (distribution 18,000 annually) and Community Map. Newsletter inserts are available to members for targeted marketing. Members participating in the Gift Certificate or Key Tag program receive free advertising benefits.
Sponsorships—stretch your marketing dollars: The annual Sweet Corn Festival will put your business in front of 100,000 people. Member luncheons, the Annual Meeting, Golf Outing, Groundhog Day celebration and more—give you the opportunity to target your marketing to a specific audience and require minimal staff costs on your part—thus minimizing your costs but maximizing your reach. Chamber staff coordinate ad plans, signage and logo placement for your investment and camera ready art. Sponsors are included in website promotion as well. Events bring visitors to Sun Prairie; visitors spend $ in our stores, restaurants, hotels and more.
Services: The Chamber Care Health Insurance program is open only to Members. Member and Business mailing labels and lists are available at a nominal fee or free to members, while non-members pay a substantial fee. Free listings in the Community Guide and Chamber website. Access to business information via Chamber from sources such as Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, Small Business Administration and more.
Referrals: Chamber staff receive thousands of calls annually about Sun Prairie. Staff refer ONLY chamber members to inquiries. Businesses gain credibility via their membership with the Chamber.
Members support Members: Chamber members make it a point to support fellow members whenever possible.
Publications: Annual Community Guide features a listing of all Chamber members free of charge. The monthly newsletter keeps members informed of Chamber news, current events, pertinent issues and more.
Stronger voice in government: A collective voice via Chamber membership enables your business to make a greater impact on government issues affecting businesses.
Community Improvement: Membership in the Chamber of Commerce is an investment in your community. The Chamber works with various community organizations such as the Business Improvement District, The Downtowners Association, Business & Education Partnership, Sun Prairie Schools, City of Sun Prairie and more to help effect positive change for our community. Your membership provides the resources to continue these partnerships and positions you as a company/organization who gives back to the community.
Education—support of:
The Chamber is a member of and supports the Business & Education partnership in Sun Prairie and offers educational seminars to Members. Helping to create a strong, well-educated workforce is a Chamber goal.
Programs/Projects include:

• monthly member luncheons for networking and keeping current on community issues
• educational seminars
• member mixers
• annual Community Guide and bi-annual Community Map production
• government affairs newspage, "How to Run for Public Office" workshop and business advocacy
• Ambassador visits to new & expanding businesses, and ribbon cuttings
• Halloween Business Spooktacular
• Keytag program
• Online Coupon promotion
• Business to Business Services program
• Restaurant Week Promotion
• CEO Roundtables in cooperation with three Dane Co. Chambers
• Gift Certificate Program
• Annual meeting and silent auction
• Leadership Sun Prairie adult education program
• Golf outing
• Bowling Tourney
• Sweet Corn Festival - attracts visitors nationwide
• Taste of the Arts Fair - community event
• Member orientations
• additional programs and events per our member's needs and requests

Members are encouraged to display information at the Chamber office. Member employees are encouraged to attend and participate at whatever level they are able to in order to gain the most out of membership.
Thanks to our current members for their support. If you'd like to become a member, check out our site and the "Contact Us" navigation to inquire about membership, or, just call our office at 837-4547 or e-mail at spchamber(at)frontier.com.
Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce - working to promote Sun Prairie. 
We promote our members and the community, connect members to other members via networking opportunities, educate our members via business seminars and member luncheons and advocate for our members.
We are not part of city government.  We are not funded with city tax dollars.  The Chamber budget is generated by the Chamber via fundraising events such as Corn Fest, the Golf Outing, the raffle fundraiser, member dues and products such as the community guide.  We pay property taxes, personal property taxes and taxes to the Business Improvement District.  

Source: Sun Prairie, Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce

U.S. Chamber Foundation: Quad Cities, Hiring Our Heroes hosts workshop, job fair

It is an effort everyone seems to agree on: helping veterans find employment.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Association of Manufacturers, IowaWORKS, and Home Base Iowa, along with lead sponsor Alcoa Foundation, will host Hiring Our Heroes – Quad-Cities, a hiring fair for veterans and military spouses. It will be held 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the RiverCenter North, Davenport.
Prior to that, Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad will host a veterans roundtable there from 8:30 to 9:45 a.m.
He will announce that Iowa will become the third state to join the Get Skills to Work coalition, a group of colleges and manufacturers dedicated to training and hiring veterans in advanced manufacturing careers. Alcoa, GE, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin founded Get Skills to Work in October 2012 with The Manufacturing Institute and a goal to reach 100,000 veterans by 2015. Read more: Quad City Times

Main Street, Beatrice Chamber, NGage team up for small business resource session
Main Street Beatrice, the Beatrice Area Chamber of Commerce and NGage plan to lend a helping hand to current and potential business owners during an informative session Thursday.

The 90-minute teleconference session will provide attendees the chance to speak with resource professionals from the Nebraska Small Business Collaborative.

“They’ll talk about what they do, what they have to offer,” NGage Executive Director Glennis McClure said. “They are good resource providers in that they can assist with existing businesses or folks that are looking to start businesses... We always try to connect with them, as needed, when folks need help with small business resources.”

Main Street Executive Director Michael Sothan hopes local entrepreneurs use this opportunity to take advantage of the network of resources available to them. Read more: Beatrice Daily Sun

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude):

I think whether you're having setbacks or not, the role of a leader is to always display a winning attitude.

- Colin Powell

John Dussman

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