Chamber of Commerce Daily News

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Tuesday, December 19, 2017

#FamousChamber Speaker: Bob Harris CAE, One of the Top Five Chamber Speakers of All Time; 1si's Dant Chesser elected chair of statewide economic development board; #BestChamber Practices: Aimee Thurber, Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce: Year End Summary and Holiday Greeting note; The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce Guide & Map; Manufacturing job fair brings hope and opportunity to job seekers; Boyle County: Making the pitch: Students pitch ideas to local business leaders; Numbers add up to good year for Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce; Numbers add up to good year for Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce; The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce promotions for Kelli Vanden Bosch And P.J. Lemanski; Town Square Chamber Publications: Valparaiso Chamber: Promises made, Promises kept!; Bryant turns dirt at new Oxford hotel groundbreaking ceremony; Leadership 21: SWCRC; Businesses Honored At Bay Area Chamber Of Commerce Event; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Good morning #Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!

#FamousChamber Speaker: Bob Harris CAE, One of the Top Five Chamber Speakers of All Time

Organizational Excellence - It starts with the heart - the PASSION of volunteers and staff to be great. Then the focus is on governance, operations, and strategy. Finally, finally mix in smart practices and benchmarks to ensure excellence. - Bob Harris, CAE - www.nonprofitcenter.com

1si's Wendy Dant Chesser elected chair of statewide economic development board

Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of One Southern Indiana, has been elected chair of the Indiana Economic Development Association board of directors.

Dant Chesser was previously vice chair and secretary of the board, as well as the chair and member-at-large for the organization's legislative committee.

"I'm very honored to be elected board chair of this prestigious organization," Dant Chesser said. "The IEDA is a fantastic organization that assists individuals, rural communities and metropolitan areas throughout Indiana as well as professionals who work within the economic development field."

IEDA, which turns 50 next year, is a statewide nonprofit organization that provides ongoing education to its members and opportunities to engage elected officials to promote business-friendly policies. The organization has about 400 members.

Dant Chesser has been CEO and president of 1SI, Clark and Floyd counties' economic development organization, since 2012. She was previously president of a similar organization in southwest Michigan called Cornerstone Alliance. She has also worked for the state of Indiana in various economic developments capacities, including her role as deputy executive director for program operations for the Indiana Department of Commerce. She is a Jeffersonville native.

Accolades include being named 2016 Chamber Executive of the Year by the Indiana Chamber Executives Association, one of North America's Top 50 Economic Developers of 2015 by Consultant Connect and 2000 Outstanding Young Hoosier Award from the Indiana Jaycees. Read more: News and Tribune

#BestChamber Practices: Aimee Thurber, Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce: Year End Summary and Holiday Greeting note:

LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Happy Holidays from the GBCC!

Greetings!

On behalf of my staff, Board of Directors, and committees and councils here at the Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce, I would like to extend a warm Happy Holidays and a joyous New Year to you and your family! Our Chamber offices will be closed on Monday, Dec. 25 and Tuesday, Dec. 26, and then Monday, January 1 and Tuesday, Jan 2 for New Years.

To close out the year, I want to send a sincere Thank You to YOU—our members, our volunteers, our ambassadors, our business and non-profit leaders, our corporate partners, and our community champions. 2017 has been a year of change, across the country and right here at home. We're so excited for the evolution we're experiencing at the Chamber, and we thank you for your continuous support and commitment as we move forward!

It has been a true privilege to come on board as the Executive Director for the Greater Beloit Chamber after serving the Chamber in other capacities for over 15 years, and to be able to expand my team to include our Business Advocate and our Community Concierge. Read more about them and our Board here!

We remain committed to fostering the continued evolution of economic development, business and workforce growth, and community and civic engagement in the Greater Beloit region. As a team, we service not just the City of Beloit but surrounding countywide and regional municipalities, and we will continue to advocate for YOU: our members in the Town of Beloit, the City of Beloit, the City of South Beloit, and the region, just as we have always done. I am proud to say that has been our mission for over 90 years, and will continue. We strongly believe that when one of us thrives, we all thrive, and we remain committed to maintaining regional partnerships for the betterment of all.

As we close out December, I wanted to share a few 2017 highlights:
We have put out a 2017 Member Survey--fill it out today! We want to hear from YOU. Tell us how we’re doing. This survey is for GBCC Members only, and the data collected will help us evolve our programming to better service our members.
We are undergoing a website revamp! Thanks to Resonate Web Marketing, we are currently working behind-the-scenes to bring you a new and improved GBCC home base!
Our 2018 Sponsorship opportunities have been released. Be sure and check them out here to see what options work best for you and your business or organization.
USA Today named Beloit-Janesville on the list of Top 25 Cities Adding the Most Jobs in 2017!
We’ve seen some amazing media coverage highlighting the incredible evolution Rock County and our region have undergone in the last few years, including the Ironworks Campus, and the incredible Irontek Business Incubator.
We closed out Year 1 of our Community Concierge program, and want to sincerely thank our investors, the Vision Partners, the companies that have utilized the service thus far, and of course Maggie Littlefield for her dedication in that role. Read more about what the service can do for employers & candidates!

I can't wait to see what 2018 will bring!

Most Sincerely & with Warmest Regards,
Aimee Thurner
Executive Director, Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce

The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce Guide & Map

The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce Guide & Map is available at the Green Lake County Chamber! Thanks to the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Green Lake map

Town SquarePublications (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.

Manufacturing job fair brings hope and opportunity to job seekers

More than 225 people showed up at the Regional Center for Advanced Technology and Training in hopes of finding a new job.

A manufacturing job fair brought in 11 manufacturing companies from Danville and surrounding counties Wednesday afternoon. The companies were searching for workers to fill around 250 positions.

"I was currently working at a job for 10 years and it's kinda hard to find a job around the area because we really need more jobs around here to secure our families and everything else," job seeker Adrian Davis said.

According to Davis, he worked for a manufacturing company in the area, but became unemployed in September.

David Daye, who recently moved back to Danville, said he came to the fair with hopes that he could land a better paying job or advance his career.

He said he's looking for any job that's paying.

"Right now I don't feel like I'm in no position as to pick and choose to what I will and what I won't do," Daye said.

Because of the fair, he has an interview set-up.

On the business side, Woodwick Candle is hiring for roughly 10 positions.

"We had the need, we are growing, we're busy and it was a perfect timing for us," Woodwick Candle Human Resources, Anne Goins, said.

Woodwick Candle said they are setting up interviews in January and are hoping to hire by January 31.

The job fair was coordinated by the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce and sponsored by Danville Community College and the Virginia Workforce Center. Read more: WSET.com

Boyle County: Making the pitch: Students pitch ideas to local business leaders

Local business leaders heard pitches for making socks better for soccer players, launching T-shirt businesses, a new design for furniture and more on Thursday from entrepreneurial Boyle County High School students.

It’s the sixth year the for the program in the county, which began as the Young Entrepreneur Academy, said Boyle County Chamber of Commerce Director Paula Fowler. The chamber then took the program to the Boyle County High School, at the school’s request, and it was renamed the Entrepreneur Class at the school. The chamber provides business speakers and mentors.

David Christopher, who teaches the class at Boyle County High School, said it’s his favorite class, because it offers such an opportunity to work with the community.

“It’s community and education working the way it should be,” he said.

Prior to giving their pitches, students work with business mentors as they build their products and business plans. They also met with lawyers and accountants; worked on web design; and more as they progressed through the class. Read more: Advocate Messanger

Numbers add up to good year for Illinois Valley Chamber of Commerce

Before food, attendees at Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development’s 106th annual dinner received some food for thought.

Joni Hunt, executive director for the chamber, gave a rundown of her chamber’s accomplishment’s over the past 12 months and thanked chamber members, employees and volunteers.

“Nobody is successful by themselves,” Hunt said, “Nobody.” Board members, volunteers and more were recognized during comments from Hunt and TJ Templeton, chamber president.

Templeton also presented the Volunteer of the Year Award to Danielle DeCarlo, who Templeton said, “was definitely the volunteer of the year.”

Hunt shared a number of statistics she said point to a successful organization.

The chamber added 52 members and had 71 events during the past year.

“That’s the most events that IVAC has held to date,” Hunt said.

Templeton also took note of the busy event calendar.

“It’s hard to believe that we have this many things going on,” Templeton said. “It really annoys me when people say there’s nothing to do in the Illinois Valley.”

Additionally, there were 35 ribbon cuttings, which Hunt said displayed a willingness to invest in the community. That’s also a 67-percent increase from last year.

A new website, ivaced.org, was launched in January, and Hunt said it attracted more than 76,000 visitors.

“This is a 70-percent increase from last year,” she said.

Member pages received a 122 percent increase in visitors, and Facebook likes increased by 104 percent.

Hunt said one ribbon cutting post reached 15,000 people, which proved the importance of a strong digital and social media push.

“You can’t do that alone,” she said. Read more: News Tribune

Midland Area Chamber: Cool Stuff to Share: Holiday Edition

Cool Article 1: Small-Business Q&A: Use Digital Marketing to Bolster Holiday Shopping

How do I keep the momentum of Small Business Saturday going throughout the busy holiday shopping season without it being completely overwhelming?

Cool Article 2: Mom-and-Pop Shops Are Threatening the Mall This Holiday Season

Spending growth at mom-and-pop businesses has outpaced that of the big chains in the past two years, according to Sarah Quinlan, senior vice president at credit-card giant Mastercard Inc., which tracks purchasing patterns. When they're not shopping online, Americans are seeking more personal connections and advice -- something they view as lacking at national retailers.

The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce promotions for Kelli Vanden Bosch And P.J. Lemanski

The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Kelli Vanden Bosch as the new Director of Events and Media Relations. Kelli’s first signature event was Holiday Gala & Auction that took place on December 8th!

Kelli has been employed with the Chamber for three years as the Director of Small Business Development & Director of Certifications. In that time with the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce team she has devoted her efforts to serving and enhancing the Dearborn area. “We are delighted that Kelli & our staff are growing & providing even more value to our membership & area.” Jackie Lovejoy, President noted. “Kelli’s expertise, enthusiasm & attention to detail make her well suited for this role!”

Kelli brings a background of event management to her new role. Prior to joining the Chamber staff, Kelli served as event coordinator at the Dearborn Hills Golf Course, owned and operated by the City of Dearborn & was a Catering Manager at The Ritz-Carlton, Dearborn. Vanden Bosch is a resident of Dearborn with her husband Curt and their 2 children, Harper & Hunter.

Vanden Bosch will work with the Chamber President Jackie Lovejoy and staff, along with the board of directors and embers, to engage Chamber members in significant membership outreach and signature events including the 21st Annual Alberta Muirhead Teacher of the Year Awards, Taste of Dearborn and other annual events and activities.

“It is an honor to take the position as Director of Events & Media Relations. I am enthusiastic and passionate about the Dearborn Area and the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce and look forward to driving creativity and excitement!”

For more information, please contact the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce by phone at 313-584-6100. Be sure to follow the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce on Facebook at facebook.com/DearbornAreaChamber, on Twitter @DbnAreaChamber and online at www.dearbornareachamber.org for all the latest news and events.

The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce provides 600+ members with the opportunities and resources to engage and network with other businesses, enhancing financial growth, professional development, and the ability to contribute to a thriving community environment.

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The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Patrick Lemanski as the new Director of Small Business Development and Director of Certificates of Origin.

P.J. is joining the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce team after working as an intern on major projects summer 2017. With the chamber P.J. was directly involved in the management and execution for one of our largest events this summer the Taste of Dearborn, as we hosted over 1000 attendees during the strolling appetizer crawl. “His talent and drive were exemplary” commented Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce President Jackie Lovejoy. “We are delighted to have P.J. on board, his past experience and enthusiasm will contribute to our mission of growth, progress, and innovation. We love to surprise our members and the public with our events & offerings. P.J. will help contribute to the spirit of philanthropy and development that we deliver to our members and the community.”

Lemanski thoroughly enjoyed his internship and is excited for the opportunity to work with the chamber. “I am thrilled to have the chance to make an impact and to work in my field. I’m delighted to continue my commitment to non-profits and all the good they provide. The chamber and this great city have welcomed me once again!”

P.J. Lemanski is a Harper Woods, Michigan native and a Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant graduate. P.J.’s recent experience includes supervising and maintaining events in the city of Harper Woods for their Parks & Recreation department, and will bring those skills to his new position.

Note from the Valpo Chamber

I want to thank you for an outstanding map which you produced for our Valpo Chamber.In my 43 years as a CEO in the Chamber Field, it was the smoothest project I have ever seen done. You made all the deadlines, your print quality and cartography was second to none. And of course you paid us in exactly the time frame you said you would so we could count the Royalty Check towards our current year revenue.

Life is very good when dealing with Town Square Publications.

You have the right of first refusal to do our next map. You are a great partner for our Chamber. We are living proof that a printed map is still very much in demand by both advertisers and consumers.

It would be my pleasure to recommend Town Square Publications as a firm Chambers and Tourism Bureaus should use when considering a printed Map or other print publications.

Rex G. Richards, CCE
President

Valpo Chamber of Commerce

Bryant turns dirt at new Oxford hotel groundbreaking ceremony

Charter Road Hospitality, headed by Chan Patel, has partnered with Hilton to build a 104-room Tru by Hilton hotel that will be located in front of Malco Oxford Commons Cinema and Premier Lanes.

On Tuesday, Gov. Phil Bryant, along with city and county leaders and citizens, gathered in front of the future site of Patel’s fifth hotel in Oxford for a groundbreaking ceremony.

With the hum of large machinery and the sounds of construction workers doing site work behind him, Bryant congratulated Patel and his father, MV Patel, and thanked them for their investment in Oxford and Mississippi.

“Here we are investing, growing, determined to make sure to add to the great team members who work with Charter Road Hospitality,” Bryant said.

Bryant said he attended a meeting Monday with the Mississippi Development Authority and an overseas company that was looking to locate in Mississippi and bring 150 jobs to the state.

“They wanted a large amount of incentives from the state of Mississippi, and I reminded them that I would be in Oxford today where this great Patel family has a 120 Mississippians working and, to the best of my knowledge, have never asked for anything from Mississippi but perhaps to have the governor come and help turn the first soil of a new development,” Bryant said. “We’re very proud of this $11 million investment.”

Tru by Hilton will bring the number of rooms in CRH’s hotels to 448 and the number of employees from 120 to about 150 after it’s opened.

Patel thanked his employees for all their hard work.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today if not for you,” he said.

Also speaking at the event was Jon Maynard, president and CEO Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Foundation and Oxford Aldermen Ulysses “Coach” Howell. An invocation was given by Jimmie Smith, retired CRH team member. Read more: Oxford Eagle

Leadership 21: SWCRC

The Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber is proud to host a dynamic, and premier leadership program, training and developing our next generation of small business and community leaders in the Downriver region! Welcome class of 2018!

Mission:

To provide an intensive, dynamic leadership program that challenges, educates, and develops a diverse, select group of emerging small business, and organizational leaders in Southern Wayne County.

Purpose:

To prepare participants to lead with a vision, to affect a positive change in the community on a long-term basis, to interpret complex social and economic issues, and to establish a network of community leaders.

Benefits to Participants:

Increased awareness of important issues facing your community
Ideas for shaping the future of your community
Complimentary Admission to Chamber networking events

Benefits to Organizations:

Improved leadership skills
Improved ability to interact with other employees (teamwork)
Improved self-confidence resulting in more willingness to assume responsibility
Positively represent organization in the community

Issues to be Explored:

Private sector
Non-profit sector
Leadership
Economic Development Community Education
Government

Candidates:

A small group of individuals annually will participate in the program. They will represent a cross section of the community, including, but not limited to, business, government, education, civic groups, health service, and community organizations.

Selection Criteria:

Potential participants must demonstrate the following criteria:

Commitment and motivation to serve the Southern Wayne County area
Interest in seeking major volunteer and/or appointed leadership roles
Ability to set and attain personal goals resulting in achievement in his/her field
Experience and record of achievement in community activities which indicate potential leadership
Potential to shape policy and exert influence on critical issues facing the community
Availability of time to participate in Leadership 21 activities

Program:

A one-day orientation retreat is scheduled for October, 2017, followed by one session a month. A graduation banquet will be hosted in February or March, 2018.

Process:
Candidates are selected on their own merits from written applications submitted to the Leadership 21 Executive Committee.
Applications must be received by the committee by August 24, 2017
Applicants will be notified of acceptance by September, 2017
Those not selected for this year’s program are encouraged to apply again next year.

Requirements:

Participants must have the full commitment of their respective corporations or organizations. Attendance is expected at all sessions.

2017-2018 Meeting Dates (Subject to Change):

October, 2017 – Orientation
November, 2017 – Non-Profit Sector
January, 2018 – Private Sector
February, 2018 – Community Relations / Government
February/March, 2018 – Graduation

Tuition: $250 per person.

Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 734.284.6000, ext. 25 or email Rich@swcrc.com

Businesses Honored At Bay Area Chamber Of Commerce Event

Two long-time Bay Area Chamber of Commerce members and community pillars celebrating milestone anniversaries were honored at the organization' s Eye Opener Breakfast held on Friday, December 15, 2017, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bay City - Riverfront.

Herman Hiss & Company and The Bay City Players received proclamations honoring their 150 and 100 year anniversaries, respectively. Jacob Bennett, Deputy District Director for U.S. Representative Dan Kildee, State Senator Mike Green, State Representative Brian K. Elder and State Representative Gary Glenn presented the proclamations.

Eye Opener Breakfasts are held monthly and are open to the public. For more information, you may call the Chamber at 989.893.4567 or visit baycityarea.com.

The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1882, is a private, non-profit business organization with nearly 800 members that provides programs to assist local businesses grow and prosper. The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce joins area busi nesses and the community for the economic growth and well-being of the entire Bay Area. Contact: Ryan Tarrant (989) 893-4567 - Email:chamber@baycityarea.com - Web: Bay City Area Chamber

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

Monday, December 18, 2017

ACCE: Nominate a legend for the Life Member Award: Peninsula Chamber looks to 2018 as year of transition; Birmingham Bloomfield 2017-2018 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide; #BestChamber Practices: Clarkston Area Chamber: 8 Reasons to Shop Local this Holiday Season; #BestChamber practices: Aurora Regional Chamber: Workforce Development: Your Help Is Needed; Please Take Survey on Industry, Employability Competencies; Janesville family star in back-to-Wisconsin video; 5 Star Chamber: Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory; Mitsch Design and Meyer Najem Lead OneZone Businesses of the Year; Kentucky Chamber President Dave Adkisson Speaking at Today's Paducah Power in Partnership Breakfast; Kentucky Chamber President Dave Adkisson Speaking at Today's Paducah Power in Partnership Breakfast; East Mississippi Business Development Corporation focuses on growth; Delshad named director of Meridian Main Street; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.;

Happy Monday #Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT week!

ACCE: Nominate a legend for the Life Member Award
ACCE’s Life Member Award — the profession’s highest individual honor — celebrates a chamber leader’s stellar career, enduring influence and lifetime of service to the profession. Review the criteria and eligibility requirements and submit a nomination for this pinnacle award by Feb. 1. Life Members will be recognized at #ACCE18 in Des Moines.

Virginia Peninsula Chamber looks to 2018 as year of transition

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is expecting a year of transition in 2018 as younger leaders are stepping up and a new CEO is expected to take the reins.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to continue our incredible success while redefining ourselves in this business landscape,” said chamber board chairman Dan Chenoweth, 40.

In 2018, the Peninsula Chamber must maintain its relevance and influence by continuing to act as a convener for stakeholders, by collaborating with partners to help improve the local business climate and by continuing to deliver, Chenoweth told more than 260 attendees of the chamber’s annual meeting at the Newport News Marriott at City Center on Tuesday. Chenoweth is a partner at Newport News-based PBMares and lives in Hilton Village.

The chamber plans to release more analysis from a survey of small businesses in Newport News and Hampton that preliminarily showed that child care costs and online competition are reasons participating small businesses weren’t looking to expand, he said. The idea is to come up with solutions for the challenges Peninsula small businesses are facing. Read more: Peninsula Chamber looks to 2018 as year of transition

Birmingham Bloomfield 2017-2018 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide

The Birmingham-Bloomfield 2017-2018 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide is available at the Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Joe Bauman and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Birmingham-Bloomfield 2017-2018 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide

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.

#BestChamber Practices: Clarkston Area Chamber: 8 Reasons to Shop Local this Holiday Season

Support your Community
When spending $100 at a local business, $68 stays in the community, versus, $100 at a large corporation, only $43 stays in the community.

Unique Gifts
No one wants to give the same gift as someone else. Small local businesses offer unique, handmade products you can't find elsewhere.

Create Jobs in Your Community
Small businesses are the nation's largest employer. By supporting small business, you help create and keep jobs in your area.

Less Impact on the Environment
Shopping local uses less fuel due to lowered shipping costs by supplying local stores with local resources.

Experience Better Customer Service
Small businesses are able to focus on personalized customer service because of their passion to be connected to the community.

Connect with Your Community
Shopping local allows you to connect with other community members and stay current with what is happening near you.

Give Back
Small businesses are more likely to give to local non-profits and charities compared to large corporations.

Build Your Community
When shopping local you are helping your local economy grow. This allows for more tax dollars to be spent in your community on better schools, libraries, and public services.

More information: Clarkston Area Chamber

#BestChamber practices: Aurora Regional Chamber: Workforce Development: Your Help Is Needed; Please Take Survey on Industry, Employability Competencies

Illinois Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act
Please help this effort by filling out a College and Career Pathway Endorsement Competencies Survey.
We are collecting feedback through an online survey that will inform the State’s development of technical and employability competencies under the Postsecondary and Workforce Readiness Act (PWR). Enacted by Illinois in 2016, the PWR Act established a voluntary system for school districts to award College and Career Pathways Endorsements to high-school graduates. Endorsements signify that a student is ready to pursue postsecondary education or enter a career related to a selected career interest area and incentivize career exploration and development, particularly in high-demand sectors. Locally, West Aurora School District 129 is completing a process to pilot endorsements.
For the last six months, public and private committees representing employers from across the State have been working to identify industry-wide technical and employability competencies in four key sectors: (1) Finance and Business Services, (2) Health Sciences, (3) Information Technology, and (4) Manufacturing and Engineering. These competencies are aligned with a transcript endorsement that a high school graduate in Illinois will be able to earn starting in 2020. For a current draft of the competencies, please click Draft Competencies November 2017.
Feedback collected via this survey will be incorporated into edits and evaluation of the drafted statements, and your voice is essential to verifying our work as we move forward. Our goal is to collect a diverse set of voices including those of employers, human resource professionals, educators at all levels, professionals in the industry, and community based organizations working within the industry across Illinois. This survey will be open until January 15, 2018, and we encourage you to share it with your colleagues and networks!

Should you have any questions, please contact Andrea Messing-Mathie at amessingmathie@niu.edu or Leah Moschella at lmoschella@jff.org.

Learn More about PWR

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotations: (Realize your FULL potential!)

Success is the result of perfection, hard work, learning from failure, loyalty and persistence. --Colin Powell

Janesville family star in back-to-Wisconsin video

The state's largest business association chose a Janesville couple for a new video designed to persuade more young people to return to Wisconsin and bolster the workforce.

The video shows Will and Katie Springer, two young professionals, talking about how they left Chicago when their first child was born, after Will got a job at a Janesville law firm.

The video emphasizes the short commutes to work, safety and opportunities to be part of a community, all things they didn't find in Chicago.

Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce hopes the message resonates with young people, especially those who left Wisconsin to live in the Chicago area.

Wisconsin is facing a “demographic crisis,” said Kurt Bauer, WMC's president and CEO, who wants state lawmakers to spend more money on similar efforts.

“If you want your economy to grow, you need more people,” Bauer said.

Bauer put out the word to local affiliates, looking for examples of people who have chosen Wisconsin after choosing Chicago.

John Beckord of Forward Janesville passed it on to members, which is how WMC found the Springers.

Will is from Iowa County in southwest Wisconsin, Katie from Fond du Lac. They both went to college in Wisconsin.

They met and started their family in Chicago, where Will got his law degree and Katie got her master's degree in psychology.

Will was working for a Chicago law firm and realized that his late hours and long mass-transit commute would mean he would often miss the opportunity to put his first son to bed, he said.

They moved to Janesville in 2012. Now both 33, they were able to afford a house they could never have bought in Chicago, Will said. Both parents work full time.

Will was able to drop off his son at Janesville Community Daycare and still get to work at the Brennan Steil law firm downtown in 10 minutes, he said.

“Anywhere in Janesville, whether you're grocery shopping or going to any sort of event, it takes 15 minutes max,” Will said.

Katie took jobs in the social service field. She's now with Rock County, in adult protective services.

Their oldest son is now in kindergarten at St. John Vianney School, while their 1-year-old goes to day care in Milton, so Will has a longer commute, but he enjoys the time to think and listen to the radio, he said.

Will still works hours dictated by the needs of his clients, but he can work into the evening and still get home in time to tuck his sons into bed.

“That's kind of the balance we were looking for,” Will said.

“I can walk down the street with my wife and two boys and feel safe,” he says in the video.

Will likes how the city has blossomed in recent years. He enjoys two new additions, microbrewery Rock County Brewing Company and Lark restaurant. And he likes the downtown redevelopment project known as ARISE.

“I think it's a really good thing and one of reasons why we're staying here and we want to be a part of that,” he said of ARISE.

And while the restaurant selection and shopping are nothing like in Chicago, access to bigger cities via the interstate highways is a plus, he said.

And they're both much closer to their families.

Will likes being able to get involved in the community and meet new people through his work with Janesville Youth Hockey, where he coaches and is vice president of the board.

WMC's Bauer, a Beloit native, said when his organization started thinking about the demographic problem, members focused on the need for skilled trades workers, such as welders, electricians and millwrights.

Then they realized the need will be much greater.

UW-Madison Applied Population Laboratory did a study showing the working-age population will grow by only 0.1 percent from 2010 to 2040.

“You can see by that jarring statistic that we need people, period,” Bauer said. “We need bus drivers. We need teachers, people to work in office buildings, you name it.”

Bauer said a lack of workers could lead to a demography-driven recession like the one that hit former economic powerhouse Japan.

But the need is not somewhere in the future, according to WMC. The association surveys its members each year, asking if they have trouble hiring workers.

In 2015, 64 percent of the members—from across the business sector, from manufacturing to services—said they had that problem. By June of this year, the percentage was 77. And a new survey to be released in January will show 80 percent can't find workers they need.

Last year, WMC produced a video focusing on Milwaukee as a great place for millennials to start careers or businesses, Bauer said

This time, they wanted to appeal specifically to former Wisconsinites who have left the state for the Chicago area, trying to capitalize on the population losses Illinois is suffering, Bauer said.

“Wisconsin is already getting its fair share of refugees from Illinois,” Bauer said.

The point of the new video was to show a young couple finding a great place to raise a family, “and Wisconsin, I think, has that in spades,” Bauer said. Read more: Gazette Extra

5 Star Chamber: Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory

The Rapid City Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory is available at the Rapid City Chamber today! Thanks to Linda Rabe, Kristina Simmons and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Rapid City South Dakota 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory

Mitsch Design and Meyer Najem Lead OneZone Businesses of the Year

Mitsch Design and Meyer Najem shared the honor of being named Business of the Year at OneZone’s December 13 awards luncheon at Ritz Charles. Business of the Year awards were given to recognize a small- to medium-sized business and a large business.

Awards were also presented for young professional of the year, new construction and renovation projects, environmental sustainability, volunteerism and lifetime achievement.

Business of the Year Awards
Business of the Year is presented to businesses based on their success in growth and stability, commitment to quality, creative and unique solutions to challenges, entrepreneurial spirit and overall contribution to the community

The Business of the Year award for a small- to medium-sized business was presented to Mitsch Design. Since its founding in 1989 by Jeryl Mitsch, the firm has become a leader in architecture and interior design throughout the Midwest. With regional, national and international projects to its credit, the firm has offices in Carmel’s Indiana Design Center and Atlanta.

Meyer Najem was honored with the Business of the Year award for a large business. With their specialty in construction management, general contracting and design/build project delivery, they focus on drafting buildings that meet the highest industry standards of sustainability, safety and technology. In business for 30 years, the innovative company is incorporating new technology in all stages of a building’s life-cycle.

Young Professional of the Year Award
The Young Professional of the Year Award recognizes a business person between the ages of 21 and 40 who has demonstrated leadership and passion for making a difference in his community based on leadership, mentorship, community involvement and entrepreneurship.

Dan O’Brien, Kucic Associates Realty, received the Young Professional of the Year award for his community commitments on the board of Hamilton County Habitat for Humanity and involvement with Edge Mentoring, The Scene and Indianapolis Symphonic Choir. He is co-chair of OneZone’s YP Committee and involved in RISE Young Professionals in Johnson and Southern Marion Counties.

Lifetime Achievement AwardsLifetime Achievement Awards were presented to recipients in both Carmel and Fishers in recognition of a lifetime commitment to business in these communities.

The Harold Kaiser Lifetime Achievement Award, given to an individual from Carmel, was presented to Chuck Lazzara, President of Ritz Charles. During its 33 years, the company has received the Blue Chip Enterprise Initiative award and was named the chamber’s Business of the Year. His support of the community causes and events include the Carmel Clay Schools, Prevail, The Humane Society for Hamilton County, community arts organizations and chambers of commerce.

Ron and Michele Archer, former owners of recently-closed Archers Meat & Catering in Fishers, were presented the Lifetime Achievement Award for Fishers. When they opened the doors of their meat processing operation in 1968, Fishers was a town of only several thousand people. Since that time, the business grew and began a tradition of donating meat to Gleaner’s Food Bank, church food pantries and other not-for-profit organizations.Look Awards – New Construction & Renovation
Nominees for Look Awards for new construction and for renovation, both in Carmel and Fishers, were judged on the quality of work, appropriateness of the construction to its surroundings and the contribution of the project to the overall look of the community.

Look Award for New Construction – Carmel was presented to Liberty Fund, 11301 N. Meridian Street, with a LEED-designed building set on eight acres and featuring a glass-clad library.

Look Award for New Construction – Fishers was given to Braden Business Systems, 8700 North Street, for their new Nickel Plate District building complete with balconies and an open-air rooftop terrace.

Look Award for Renovation – Carmel was presented to Delta Faucet Company, 55 East 111th Street, which increased square-footage by 70% with modern architecture that compliments the existing structure.

Look Award for Renovation – Fishers went to DeVeau’s School of Gymnastics, 9032 Technology Drive, for renovation of their original 24,000 square-foot building and the addition of 6,000 more.

Green Award
The Green Award recognizes an organization, company or association that is solving environmental challenges using innovative and green practices or by setting up creative partnerships to enhance the environment.

This year’s award was presented to The Bridges at Carmel Market District for their commitment to sustainability through materials, lighting, water, recycling, air quality and local sourcing. A farm-to-table garden serves their Table Restaurant and real-time solar displays are featured above the check-outs.

Most Valuable Volunteer Award
The Most Valuable Volunteer award was established to celebrate and recognize outstanding volunteer contributions by individuals who also work full time.

This year’s recipient is John DeLucia, Citizens State Bank. John is the founder of Pasta Bowl, a local food drive; is a Rise to the Challenge contributor for Giving Tuesday; and serves on the Hamilton Southeastern (HSE) Schools Foundation Advisory Council and the HSE Schools Board. He developed an incentive program for donations that challenges local banks to support the local Mudsock Game. Contact: Lisa Wirthwein - 317.436.4653 - lisa@onezonecommerce.com More information on Website: www.onezonecommerce.com

Kentucky Chamber President Dave Adkisson Speaking at Today's Paducah Power in Partnership Breakfast

Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dave Adkisson will be the featured speaker for today's Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce December Power in Partnership breakfast. Adkisson will present a “2018 Legislative Preview.”

The breakfast will be held at 7:30 am at the Julian Carroll Convention Center.

During Adkisson’s 12 years at the Chamber, it has grown substantially while working to fulfill its mission of “Uniting Business and Advancing Kentucky.” Adkisson is past chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce Executives and past chairman of the national Council of State Chambers.

Adkisson is originally from Owensboro, KY, where he started his career at the chamber of commerce and later served eight years as the mayor of Owensboro. He served as president of the Birmingham, Alabama Chamber for six years before returning to Kentucky to head the Kentucky Chamber in 2005. Read more: West Kentucky Star

East Mississippi Business Development Corporation focuses on growth; Delshad named director of Meridian Main Street

The East Mississippi Business Development Corporation unveiled its newest component, the Alliance for Growth, at its 21st annual meeting Tuesday at the MSU Riley Center in Meridian.

The Alliance was one of the primary topics discussed by local business leaders at the meeting.

EMBDC chairman Jeff McCoy calls the Alliance for Growth “a regional gathering of business leaders throughout a multi-county region.”

Now about a year old, there are about 85 members so far in East Mississippi and West Alabama. The Alliance serves “as a catalyst for change throughout our region,” said Alliance Chairman M.L. Waters.

“We completed our first year of the organization at our first annual meeting a month ago, which was a great success,” Waters said. “It’s been a lot of work put in over the last 18 months…”

“It’s a growing group,” McCoy said in a previous report. “It was formed really to create a network of the business community…When they needed assistance, they’ve got this network of business leaders to go to to get that assistance to help with a project or a contact.”

Kim Houston, who represents Ward 4 on the Meridian City Council, said she was happy to see the annual meeting open to the public, and she likes the “regional approach” that the Alliance offers.

“I think that’s something we should have [done] years ago instead of making enemies,” Houston said. “ We should have been trying to work with our surrounding counties. Those kinds of things are powerful, and I think it’s going to impact our community positively.”

EMBDC Director of Membership Development Debby Delshad was also named Meridian Main Street’s new director.

Delshad, who has been with EMBDC for nearly two years, will continue with her membership development duties as well, she said.

“I love Main Street, I’m familiar with main street, so I look forward to it,” Delshad said. “This is just such a good time for Meridian, and we see so many things coming to fruition. You can ask the merchants. There’s a different feel, there’s a different energy, and we’re just happy to be part of it.”

Also discussed were the new facades that will be installed for some businesses along Front Street between 22nd and 20th Avenues — facing the Mississippi Arts and Entertainment Experience. The facades are funded partially by a $25,000 matching grant from Mississippi Power.

Mark Tullos, President and CEO of the MAX, agrees that a lot is happening in downtown Meridian.

“Businesses outside of downtown are beginning to see the synergy that’s about to happen down here,” Tullos said. “You may own a business off [Highway] 19, and you may not be cognizant of the fact that business is going to really begin to boom. I think it’s really great that we’re beginning to communicate with all these other business leaders.” Read more: Meridian Star

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.