Good morning #Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!
#BestChamber practices: Champaign County Chamber: Chamber City Visits: Visit Des Moines, Iowa, learn more about the Des Moines Partnership
Ever
wonder how some communities seem to always rank at the top of everything? With
all that is good in Champaign County, there is always room to learn and to
grow. And, there is also opportunity to tell our story. One of the best ways to
learn about other communities' successes is to go see it in action. If you are
interested in economic development, workforce development, downtown
revitalization, education, green space, and / or a productive business climate,
this is the trip for you.
We
will be taking a busload of community members to Des Moines, IA for an
Inter-City visit. The trip is November 1-3. This is an initiative under the
Champaign County First group. We will leave early morning 11/1 and returning in
the evening 11/3 (estimated time is 6:00 pm). The estimated cost of the trip is
$700 per person.
Some
of the Reasons We Selected Des Moines:
- DSM's cost of business is 15 percent lower than the
national average
- Forbes lists them as the Top 10 Best Places for
Business & Careers
- They are the fastest growing metro in the country
- They just landed a $1.4 Billion Apple Big Data Center
- Ranked by US News and World as the 2nd most affordable
place to live in the country
- They have been leaders in workforce development for
over 25 years (K-12 focus as well). http://www.edge75x25.com/
- Des Moines has grown its downtown for business with
the added amenities of arts and parks in the downtown area (urban parks)
- They have over 4000 miles of parkland and 81 miles of
trails
- With over 300 vendors, the DSM Farmer's Market is
consistently ranked in the top 5 of the top 100 Farmers Markets in the
country.
This
is an organized trip with an agenda full of scheduled meetings. It is not a
sight-seeing, recreational trip. We have a limited number of seats left on the
bus. Please contact Garret Hill at garreth@champaigncounty.org
or 217.359.1791 as soon as possible to secure your spot if you would like to
attend.
Area chambers of commerce reflect their communities
The engine that keeps any community’s business efforts humming is its local chamber of commerce.
In Wisconsin, 267 communities are fortunate to have a chamber of commerce. Gov. Scott Walker has proclaimed September as Chamber of Commerce Month in Wisconsin.
In southern Ozaukee County, all communities have their own Chamber of Commerce. Each one, however, reflects its distinct community and businesses.
In Cedarburg, the chamber of commerce is often thought of for the many events and tourism efforts within the city, but the core focus truly remains on promoting businesses.
“Our mission statement says that we promote, protect and preserve Cedarburg business, and that’s something that we really stay true to in all we do,” said Jennifer Andreas, executive director of the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve really been a state of renewal this past year and we’ve incorporated more activities to engage and educate our businesses.”
Andreas said that the Cedarburg chamber is quite busy throughout the year.
“There’s never a dull moment,” she said with a laugh. “The interesting thing about chambers is that while all of our activities are focused on businesses, they also benefit our residents, and the citizens are our greatest advocates and allies in supporting our businesses and keeping our communities healthy.”
Pam King, executive director of the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce, agrees.
“Part of our role in the community is to make that connection between businesses and people,” she said. “We want to give our businesses great exposure to the community as a whole.”
She said that chambers also have to keep that balance in mind in all they do.
“We’re always keeping it in the back of our mind as to how our efforts do that,” she said. “For example, we work with Celebrate Grafton in providing ancillary services for their events because we know those events bring people into the community.”
The Grafton chamber’s annual Ladies Night Out is an example of that. This year, more than 500 women registered for the event, which is held in downtown Grafton.
“We know that this event shows them that Grafton is a great place to live, work and play, but it also introduces them to many of the chamber business members,” she said. “They often leave the event knowing a little more about our members.”
The Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce has much the same mindset, according to Executive Director Tina Schwantes.
“The main focus of the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce is to offer businesses and community organizations opportunities to connect and grow,” she said. “We provide an extensive number of marketing programs and quality networking events that foster positive relationships and strengthen the business community.”
Like the other two chambers in southeastern Ozaukee County, the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce provides services to residents and visitors on behalf of its business members.
“Attracting and maintaining a vibrant business community has a positive quality of life and economic impact on all community members,” said Schwantes, who added that chamber benefits, such as the community gift certificates, are well used and appreciated by the community.
“Chambers are central to Wisconsin’s local economies,” said Philip Fritsche, president of the Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce and the Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives Advisory Board Chair. “In most places, the chamber is involved in all major local decision making either as a facilitator or advocate for its members.” Read more: gmtoday.com
Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory
The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
Chamber symposium: What’s being built on the Coast? $12M in new construction
Business groups oppose local income tax ideas floated by two Michigan cities
Two Michigan cities are considering local income taxes as a way to bolster revenues at a time when the Michigan Municipal League says resources going to municipalities are shrinking. Ann Arbor and East Lansing have both been studying the issue, but only East Lansing has moved to place an income tax measure on its November
OneZone Holds Tourney at New Topgolf Complex in Fishers
Microchipped golf balls that score themselves. Open-air, climate-controlled hitting bays. Electronic scoring and outdoor targets. Golfers – from beginners to pros – in OneZone’s inaugural Topgolf Tourney at Topgolf Fishers on November 2 will experience golf in a whole new way.
OneZone will fill all 34 bays on Level 2 to play two tournament games, ending with the presentation of awards. Networking, teambuilding and lively competition will take place throughout the event, along with a hole-in-one contest with a top prize of $10,000. Drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served, and players can bring their own clubs or use those provided by Topgolf. Sponsorship opportunities and individual or team players are available, as are premium bays.
What: OneZone Topgolf Tourney
Location: Topgolf – 9200 E. 116th St. – Fishers
Date: Thursday, November 2
Time: 1 to 5 p.m.
Reservations: Required. OneZone members and non-members are invited to play.
Cost: Players (individuals and teams) from $125. Sponsorships from $300.
Website: www.onezonecommerce.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/onezonecommerce
Facebook: www.facebook.com/onezonecommerce
More information: Lisa Wirthwein | Marketing & Operations, PH 317.436.4653 | lisa@onezonecommerce.com
Virginia Economic Developer’s Association presents Campbell County Economic Development Director Mike Davidson with highest honor
#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotations: (Open yourself to new ideas!)
Area chambers of commerce reflect their communities
The engine that keeps any community’s business efforts humming is its local chamber of commerce.
In Wisconsin, 267 communities are fortunate to have a chamber of commerce. Gov. Scott Walker has proclaimed September as Chamber of Commerce Month in Wisconsin.
In southern Ozaukee County, all communities have their own Chamber of Commerce. Each one, however, reflects its distinct community and businesses.
In Cedarburg, the chamber of commerce is often thought of for the many events and tourism efforts within the city, but the core focus truly remains on promoting businesses.
“Our mission statement says that we promote, protect and preserve Cedarburg business, and that’s something that we really stay true to in all we do,” said Jennifer Andreas, executive director of the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce. “We’ve really been a state of renewal this past year and we’ve incorporated more activities to engage and educate our businesses.”
Andreas said that the Cedarburg chamber is quite busy throughout the year.
“There’s never a dull moment,” she said with a laugh. “The interesting thing about chambers is that while all of our activities are focused on businesses, they also benefit our residents, and the citizens are our greatest advocates and allies in supporting our businesses and keeping our communities healthy.”
Pam King, executive director of the Grafton Area Chamber of Commerce, agrees.
“Part of our role in the community is to make that connection between businesses and people,” she said. “We want to give our businesses great exposure to the community as a whole.”
She said that chambers also have to keep that balance in mind in all they do.
“We’re always keeping it in the back of our mind as to how our efforts do that,” she said. “For example, we work with Celebrate Grafton in providing ancillary services for their events because we know those events bring people into the community.”
The Grafton chamber’s annual Ladies Night Out is an example of that. This year, more than 500 women registered for the event, which is held in downtown Grafton.
“We know that this event shows them that Grafton is a great place to live, work and play, but it also introduces them to many of the chamber business members,” she said. “They often leave the event knowing a little more about our members.”
The Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce has much the same mindset, according to Executive Director Tina Schwantes.
“The main focus of the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce is to offer businesses and community organizations opportunities to connect and grow,” she said. “We provide an extensive number of marketing programs and quality networking events that foster positive relationships and strengthen the business community.”
Like the other two chambers in southeastern Ozaukee County, the Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce provides services to residents and visitors on behalf of its business members.
“Attracting and maintaining a vibrant business community has a positive quality of life and economic impact on all community members,” said Schwantes, who added that chamber benefits, such as the community gift certificates, are well used and appreciated by the community.
“Chambers are central to Wisconsin’s local economies,” said Philip Fritsche, president of the Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce and the Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives Advisory Board Chair. “In most places, the chamber is involved in all major local decision making either as a facilitator or advocate for its members.” Read more: gmtoday.com
Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory
The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
Chamber symposium: What’s being built on the Coast? $12M in new construction
The last three weeks have brought a building boom across South Mississippi as $11.9 million in construction permits were issued along with 68 new home building permits for work to begin before the weather chills.
A variety of projects are in the works. Topping the list are a $4 million building for Hillcrest Dental Group in Gulfport and a $3 million Saltgrass Steak House Landry’s is building north of Golden Nugget Casino Biloxi.
Investment in schools continues. The St. Martin Middle School is getting a $2.2 million expansion and Jackson County School District is putting $353,000 into a Fab Lab in Vancleave, north of the high school.
“We are seeing new commercial development,” said Tish Williams, director of the Hancock Chamber of Commerce. Just opened in Hancock County are a new Dirt Cheap store, a Tractor Supply, Smoothie King and Yamato Steakhouse.
“After Hurricane Katrina our small, home-grown, locally owned small business came back,” she said. “Now we’re starting to see franchise investors,” who she said see the revenue potential for this area and bring new money to the community.
“These are all great but we need to really move the needle to recover economically,” she said. “We still need more people to relocate here. We need more outside investment coming in. We need more customers.”
Just how much impact this new development is having on the area will be explored in The State of the Coast Economy. The symposium will be presented by the Gulf Coast Business Council in cooperation with the chambers of commerce from across South Mississippi. It is from 8-10 a.m. on Oct. 31 at IP Casino Resort in Biloxi.
“I think some will be surprised at what they see,” said Ashley Edwards, president of the GCBC.
Real estate development is one of the topics GCBC Chairman John Hairston will look at as he presents regional data and leads a discussion on developing a long-term strategy for economic prosperity in South Mississippi.
Registration is required by Oct. 23 for the free breakfast event.
New projects are starting across the Coast. In Pascagoula, The Courtyards at City Dock will provide townhouse living on the Pascagoula River, within walking distance to downtown shops and restaurants.
Biloxi is getting several new restaurants. The Veaux Bar and Grill is open 24 hours a day at 285 Oak St. South Port Line Restaurant made its debut on Howard Avenue in time for Cruisin’ The Coast, and Dunkin’ Donuts is coming inside Hard Rock Casino Biloxi. Read more: Sun-Herald
Business groups oppose local income tax ideas floated by two Michigan cities
Two Michigan cities are considering local income taxes as a way to bolster revenues at a time when the Michigan Municipal League says resources going to municipalities are shrinking. Ann Arbor and East Lansing have both been studying the issue, but only East Lansing has moved to place an income tax measure on its November
Two Michigan cities are considering local income taxes as a way to bolster revenues at a time when the Michigan Municipal League says resources going to municipalities are shrinking.
Ann Arbor and East Lansing have both been studying the issue, but only East Lansing has moved to place an income tax measure on its November ballot. Twenty-two Michigan cities currently have income tax measures on the books, with 18 of them levying a 1 percent tax on residents and a 0.5 percent tax on those who work within their borders, according the Michigan Department of Treasury.
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce has called on East Lansing to remove the tax hike proposal from the ballot, arguing that it would increase costs for small businesses and make the region less attractive to talented workers. Some small businesses have suggested they may relocate or not consider expanding operations if the measure passes, according to Eric Dimoff, a chamber spokesman.
“We just think there must be a more thorough evaluation of the plan before it’s placed on the November ballot,” Dimoff told Watchdog.org.
The proposal calls for the city to lower property taxes as well, but East Lansing would still bring in an estimated $5 million annually above current revenues.
The chamber conducted a survey of its members showing 72 percent believed that the city income tax was not necessary, while 85 percent of the members opposed it, Dimoff said.
Many cities are struggling with long-term liabilities, including pension costs, but other options are open to them, he said. Indeed, Michigan State University has offered to help the city financially by offering $20 million in installment payments if the city agrees to pull the income tax proposal. Read more: Watchdog.org
Ann Arbor and East Lansing have both been studying the issue, but only East Lansing has moved to place an income tax measure on its November ballot. Twenty-two Michigan cities currently have income tax measures on the books, with 18 of them levying a 1 percent tax on residents and a 0.5 percent tax on those who work within their borders, according the Michigan Department of Treasury.
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce has called on East Lansing to remove the tax hike proposal from the ballot, arguing that it would increase costs for small businesses and make the region less attractive to talented workers. Some small businesses have suggested they may relocate or not consider expanding operations if the measure passes, according to Eric Dimoff, a chamber spokesman.
“We just think there must be a more thorough evaluation of the plan before it’s placed on the November ballot,” Dimoff told Watchdog.org.
The proposal calls for the city to lower property taxes as well, but East Lansing would still bring in an estimated $5 million annually above current revenues.
The chamber conducted a survey of its members showing 72 percent believed that the city income tax was not necessary, while 85 percent of the members opposed it, Dimoff said.
Many cities are struggling with long-term liabilities, including pension costs, but other options are open to them, he said. Indeed, Michigan State University has offered to help the city financially by offering $20 million in installment payments if the city agrees to pull the income tax proposal. Read more: Watchdog.org
OneZone Holds Tourney at New Topgolf Complex in Fishers
Microchipped golf balls that score themselves. Open-air, climate-controlled hitting bays. Electronic scoring and outdoor targets. Golfers – from beginners to pros – in OneZone’s inaugural Topgolf Tourney at Topgolf Fishers on November 2 will experience golf in a whole new way.
OneZone will fill all 34 bays on Level 2 to play two tournament games, ending with the presentation of awards. Networking, teambuilding and lively competition will take place throughout the event, along with a hole-in-one contest with a top prize of $10,000. Drinks and heavy hors d’oeuvres will be served, and players can bring their own clubs or use those provided by Topgolf. Sponsorship opportunities and individual or team players are available, as are premium bays.
What: OneZone Topgolf Tourney
Location: Topgolf – 9200 E. 116th St. – Fishers
Date: Thursday, November 2
Time: 1 to 5 p.m.
Reservations: Required. OneZone members and non-members are invited to play.
Cost: Players (individuals and teams) from $125. Sponsorships from $300.
Website: www.onezonecommerce.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/onezonecommerce
Facebook: www.facebook.com/onezonecommerce
More information: Lisa Wirthwein | Marketing & Operations, PH 317.436.4653 | lisa@onezonecommerce.com
Virginia Economic Developer’s Association presents Campbell County Economic Development Director Mike Davidson with highest honor
The Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) presented J. Michael Davidson (Mike), Director of Economic Development for Campbell County with the 2017 Cardinal Award at the VEDA Annual Meeting on October 13, 2017 in Virginia Beach.
"Mike has been a committed Economic Developer for more than 18 years contributing to the economic base of Campbell County and the Lynchburg Region. Mike is an honest, consistent, reliable leader in the region. He is a man of character and integrity representing our profession at the highest level, " said Megan Lucas, CEO and Chief Economic Development Officer of the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance. "Mike works tirelessly to ensure Campbell County continues to grow economically and its great citizens have jobs to sustain their families.”
Davidson’s resume includes over 18 years of service with the Campbell County Economic Development office, where he focuses on business retention, new business attraction, the development of industrial parks and retail center developments and tourism. He provides staff support for the Campbell County Industrial Development Authority, the Campbell County Economic Development Commission and the Brookneal Campbell County Airport Authority. Davidson has both public and private sector experience with 20 years as a small business owner, 12 years of service on the Campbell County Board of Supervisors and seven years on the Board of Directors of the Virginia Association of Counties. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance and chairs the region’s economic development council. Davidson also has a passion for the Patrick Henry Boys & Girls Home where he currently serves as the Board Chair.
“Mike Davidson has been a steadfast champion for economic development in Campbell County for many years. He recognizes the importance of creating a community where entrepreneurship can blossom; where existing businesses can prosper and grow; and where new industry can locate and thrive. Mike’s commitment to economic development and his dedication to Campbell County are remarkable. The County and the region are incredibly fortunate to have a professional of Mike’s caliber advocating on our behalf”, said Frank Rogers, Campbell County Administrator.
The Cardinal Award is the most prestigious award bestowed by VEDA to deserving members. The award recognizes leadership in the field of economic development, outstanding professional accomplishments and exceptional service to the organization. Nominations are open in early summer each year to VEDA past or current members. The nominator must be a member of the association.
VEDA is a member-based professional association committed to providing training and development; networking opportunities; and serving as the voice of the economic development community, creating economic opportunity and prosperity for the Commonwealth of Virginia. VEDA's membership is comprised of more than 530 economic development professionals and related industry professionals from across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
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"Personally, I am always ready to learn, although I do not always like being taught." – Winston Churchill.
Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map
The new Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map is available at the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber today! Thanks to Bob O'Callaghan and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber 2017 Community Map
Town SquarePublications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
2018 Kentucky Legislative Preview Conference
The 2018 Kentucky Legislative Preview Conference, presented by Brown-Forman, is a one-day gathering of the most prominent and influential policy-makers in Kentucky. Key elected and appointed officials will be on hand to discuss the fast approaching legislative session.
Join us as we look ahead to the 2018 General Assembly. Lawmakers will convene in Frankfort to consider legislative proposals – including many that will impact business. To help you stay informed, the Legislative Preview provides you with a rare opportunity to hear many of Kentucky's top public officials discuss their plans, priorities and predictions for next year's legislative session – you'll get the inside scoop from those who know.
We hope to see you there!
December 19, 2017 | Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa | Lexington, Ky.
Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map
The new Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map is available at the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber today! Thanks to Bob O'Callaghan and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber 2017 Community Map
Town SquarePublications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
2018 Kentucky Legislative Preview Conference
The 2018 Kentucky Legislative Preview Conference, presented by Brown-Forman, is a one-day gathering of the most prominent and influential policy-makers in Kentucky. Key elected and appointed officials will be on hand to discuss the fast approaching legislative session.
Join us as we look ahead to the 2018 General Assembly. Lawmakers will convene in Frankfort to consider legislative proposals – including many that will impact business. To help you stay informed, the Legislative Preview provides you with a rare opportunity to hear many of Kentucky's top public officials discuss their plans, priorities and predictions for next year's legislative session – you'll get the inside scoop from those who know.
We hope to see you there!
December 19, 2017 | Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa | Lexington, Ky.
Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.
Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.
Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications
Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal
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