Good morning #Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!
Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Stephen R. Covey's book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People®, has been a top-seller for the simple reason that it ignores trends and pop psychology for proven principles of fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity. Celebrating its fifteenth year of helping people solve personal and professional problems, this special anniversary edition includes a new foreword and afterword written by Covey exploring the question of whether the 7 Habits are still relevant and answering some of the most common questions he has received over the past 15 years. Read more: Stephen R. Covey
#Bestchamber practices: Carol Stream - Five Star Chamber Expo
Dear Chamber friends,
One of the four expos we offer as a chamber is coming up shortly. These events give you the opportunity to "man" a table to meet and greet attendees and raise the visibility of your business. It is a time to forge some new relationships and strengthen existing ones.
The Five Star Business & Health Expo will be held on Friday, February 16th from 10:00am until 3:00pm at Medinah Shrine Center in Addison. Available opportunities include:
- Sponsorship for the ultimate visibility
- Exhibit at a table at this show
- Food Sponsorship with no table fee but sharing your food samples during the expo
- Flyer sponsor for those who aren't able to have a physical presence
- Volunteers needed.
There is something for every member! How will you choose to showcase your business?
Admission to attend the expo is free and at the end of the expo, there will be a FREE Speed Networking from 3:00pm-4:00pm.
Here is the link to sign up for exhibitors/sponsors, or here is the link to sign up as an attendee.
Have a spectacular week!Admission to attend the expo is free and at the end of the expo, there will be a FREE Speed Networking from 3:00pm-4:00pm.
Here is the link to sign up for exhibitors/sponsors, or here is the link to sign up as an attendee.
Luanne Newman, ACE Executive Director
Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce
Located in the Holiday Inn & Suites, 150 S. Gary Ave, Carol Stream IL 60188
o: 630.665.3325 info@carolstreamchamber.com www.carolstreamchamber.com
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Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce Community Profile & Directory
The Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce Community Profile & Directory is available at the Plainfield Area Chamber today! Thanks to Tasha Kitson, Vitella Barnes, Kellie Wujek and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
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.
West Suburban Chamber of Commerce Announces New President & CEO
The Board of Directors of the West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and Industry (WSCCI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Suzi Wirtz, IOM as its new President & CEO, effective immediately. During the past year, the board evaluated the role and title of Executive Director, current staffing structure and, most importantly, the needs of the organization at this time.
"The board is very excited to welcome Suzi to this position. She served as interim executive director for the majority of 2017 and, after considering several candidates, we are confident that this strategic decision will help lead the organization toward its vision for the future,” said Cindy Perkins, Board Chair of the WSCCI and owner of Little People’s Country Academy of Arts & Education. “Suzi very successfully kept the Chamber on track last year, along with a conscientious board, staff and committees by engaging businesses, municipalities and the community at large as well as keeping a close eye on the budget and our strategic plan.
We look forward to the Chamber's continued and future success under her leadership.” Wirtz was hired in August of 2016 as the WSCCI’s director of marketing and events, before accepting the interim position in March of 2017. Prior to this, she was executive director for LG Celtics Soccer Club for three years, playing an instrumental part in growing the club from 10 to 36 teams, representing more than 400 families in the west suburban communities and elevating the brand to a well-known commodity.
Previously, she was Vice President of Marketing & Communications for The Learning Studio and has held a number of high-level, senior staff positions at the Association Forum of Chicagoland and Women’s Council of REALTORS. Wirtz’s background is rooted in nonprofit management for more than 20 years. She earned the Certified Association Executive designation and the Institute of Organizational Management certificate in 2003. She has spoken and written for a variety of groups including the Western Springs Rotary Club, American Society of Association Executives, Indiana Society of Association Executives and others. She holds a Master’s Degree from DePaul in English and a Bachelor’s Degree from Loras College, double majoring in Marketing and English.
“In my new role as President & CEO, I am equally honored and excited to continue working alongside the board and the members, providing a new and relevant direction for all members and communities,” stated Wirtz. “With a strong marketing background, I feel it is extremely important to show the value of membership and constantly produce and provide new, unique benefits that increase that value. I’ve met with many of the Chamber’s past and present leaders and municipalities, and I’m so inspired by their strong connections to and dedication to the Chamber and its success. Collaborating and working together makes sense and strengthens the membership by being able to work on regional marketing strategies, new engagement opportunities and economic development for the greater good,” stated Wirtz. More information: WSCCI
#BestChamber practices: Muncie-Delaware County Chamber: Member Testimonials
When my wife, Melissa, and I moved here to start our business nearly 9 years ago, we did not know a soul. We knew it would be important that we made meaningful connections with community leaders, fellow business owners and anyone we could in our new "home." The Chamber was among our first phone calls and in retrospect, one of the best decisions we ever made both personally and professionally. The Chamber provides our business numerous opportunities to connect to so many of the people and organizations you need to not only survive but thrive. Networking events, legislative updates, business resources and sponsorship exposure for our business are only but a few of the things our Chamber provides us that we otherwise could not replicate anywhere else. While many would argue there's no such thing as a "one size fits all" member organization, the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce comes as close to that as any other affiliation we've had to date.
Jeff Daniels, Managing Partner, Toyota/Scion of Muncie
Chamber breakfast: Loudoun supervisors address business community on top issues
With the start of a new year, Loudoun faces several challenges, but with every challenge, there is also progress, three Loudoun supervisors told the county business community at a Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Thursday.
Chairwoman Phyllis Randall (D-At Large), Vice Chairman Ralph Buona (R-Ashburn) and Supervisor Geary Higgins (R-Catoctin) spoke on several topics, including a strained transportation system, the arrival of Metro, the Envision Loudoun Comprehensive Plan process, a housing shortage and growing costs and budgets.
Randall noted the Envision Loudoun process, compensation and class study and Metro capital funding as challenges the board is facing.
Higgins said that while he was one of the members from the past board who voted against bringing Metro to Loudoun, he is optimistic that the county will find solutions to the financial and safety challenges facing the mass transit system.
Buona said the Metro is on schedule for testing and Loudoun residents should see services to Ashburn in 2020. Of the three parking garages Loudoun has pledged to build, one is almost done and the other two are going through the design process and will be done by May 2019.
The tax district revenue is on target with the 2011 projections and land value around the Metro stations has increased, Buona also said. Read more: Loudoun Times
Muskegon-area employers say workforce shortage is No. 1 challenge
After a full year of low unemployment rates in Muskegon County during 2017, local businesses say their top concern is finding qualified workers.
At the end of 2017, 68 percent of businesses surveyed by the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce said that an apparent workforce shortage was their No. 1 concern going into 2018, according to a news release.
"It is great to have a strong economy, yet now we must work to develop local talent and recruit new talent to the community," said Cindy Larsen, Chamber president.
Unemployment rates in the county during 2017 ranged from a low of 3.9 percent in April to a high of 6.2 percent in July.
Economists consider 2-7 percent unemployment to be full employment, meaning that there will always be some people unemployed as they move to new places or switch jobs or their skill set doesn't match up with open positions.
The Chamber will make an effort to support workforce training programs during 2018, Larsen said. Activities that support partnerships between businesses and education also will be a high priority.
One way that businesses along the lakeshore are combating the shortage is with skilled trades training. The Skilled Trades Training Fund, administered by the Michigan Talent Investment Agency, recently awarded grants to more than 40 Muskegon-area companies for a combined $1.5 million, which is enough to train about 1,500 employees. Read more: M Live
Tiffany King resigns from Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce; going to Mount Horeb Chamber
Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Tiffany King is headed to the troll capital of the world.
King is leaving her post to take the same position in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin. She gave her notice last week, and chamber board members were briefed on the decision on Tuesday. Her last day is Feb. 9.
“Freeport is my hometown and I’ll always have a stake in the success of this community,” King said. “I’m excited to see the future successes of the chamber and our members. I’m also looking forward to a new opportunity.”
Mount Horeb is near Madison and is known for wooden trolls that are scattered throughout the village. It features several cultural festivals each year, according to the village website.
“Mount Horeb is on the cusp of major economic development and growth, and community leaders and economic organizations are working very closely to aid in the successful growth of the village,” King said. “It’s exciting to be a part of that and I really enjoyed meeting with their board of directors and village representatives.”
Chamber board Chairman Mike Schiffman praised King’s work over the last 11 years.
“During the past several years, Tiffany has done a remarkable job for our organization,” Schiffman said. “Tiffany has provided strategic leadership that elevated the value proposition we have been able to offer to our members.
“She created many new programs and value-added services, as well as worked with staff to maintain a high level of excellence. We wish her all the best in her new position, and we thank her for her years of service.”
A task force has been assembled to discuss the possibility of merging the Freeport/Stephenson County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Freeport Area Chamber of Commerce, Freeport Downtown Development Foundation and Northwest Illinois Development Alliance into one entity directed by a single president.
The uncertainty surrounding a possible merger will not prevent the chamber from searching for a new director right away, Schiffman said. He will meet with chamber staff on Wednesday to discuss future plans and said board members intend to hire an interim director who can take over by the time King leaves.
“We want to make sure the current chamber members are continuing to receive the services they’ve signed up for,” Schiffman said.
The Chamber of Commerce joins a list of local organizations looking for new leaders. Small Business Collaborative director Brian Borger stepped down earlier this month, and the Freeport Stephenson County Convention and Visitors Bureau board recently fired executive director Connie Sorn. NIDA Executive Director Dave Young will retire at the end of June. Read more: Journal Standard
Ocean Springs has a new selling point. It’s spelled L-O-V-E.
The city has revived a logo and given it new purpose — loving Ocean Springs.
The design was created to celebrate the city’s big win in 2013 — the rare Great American Main Street Award.
“ILoveOS is a symbol celebrating Ocean Springs from its historic downtown streets to its unique aspects of uptown and all around town,” said Cynthia Sutton, executive director of the city’s Chamber of Commerce Main Street Tourism Bureau.
Great American Main Street is a very coveted award, Sutton said, given out by the National Main Street Center to only three communities nationwide each year.
Ocean Springs is the only community in Mississippi to win it.
They have decided to bring back the symbol as part of the chamber’s marketing and branding.
“If you look closely, it has the words Great American Main Street winner on it with our company logo inside the heart,” she said.
The chamber has created buttons, stickers and other fun pieces with the big red heart to give visitors as souvenirs for stopping in Ocean Springs and spending some time.
“We will continue to grow this symbol celebrating Ocean Springs in the months to follow,” Sutton said. “Thank you for noticing our catchy fun tag!!” Read more: Sun Herald
Passing the gavel: Winchester-Clark County Chamber of Commerce inducts new president, looks ahead to new year
Kosciusko County 106th Annual Chamber Awards Dinner
Last night, the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce held its 106th Annual Chamber Awards Dinner at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center at Grace College. Nearly 500 community business men and women along with local and state elected officials were in attendance as several local businesses and individuals were honored.
Last night, the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce held its 106th Annual Chamber Awards Dinner at the Manahan Orthopaedic Capital Center at Grace College. Nearly 500 community business men and women along with local and state elected officials were in attendance as several local businesses and individuals were honored.
The night began with the singing of the National Anthem by Sophie Schlitt, and the presentation of colors by the Warsaw Community High School Junior ROTC Color Guard. Chamber President and CEO, Rob Parker then welcomed everyone to the event and thanked many individuals who helped support the Chamber and our community during the past year.
Indiana Governor, Eric Holcomb was the evening’s keynote speaker. His presentation was question and answer style with Curtis Smith from Parkview Health as the moderator. Parkview Warsaw was the speaker sponsor for this year’s event. Governor Holcomb spoke on topics such as Indiana’s low unemployment rate, the opioid crisis, keeping jobs local, education and other topics that directly affect our community.
Lauren Klusman, the Chamber’s Marketing and Communications Manager, presented the Ambassador of the Year Award to two deserving recipients, Doug Hanes from First Federal Savings Bank and Nola Hudson from Beacon Credit Union.
Brian Peterson of Brian Peterson Group, presented and sponsored the Young Adult Professional of the Year Award. YAP is a group of business professionals under the age of 40 who are active in the community. This year’s recipient was Kelsi Griffith from Grace College & Seminary.
Monica Kendrick presented the Government Excellence Award sponsored by Zimmer Biomet to State Senator, Ryan Mishler. Kendrick said, “he engages the community and has a very close working relationship with the Chamber, always available to answer any questions and provide insight on any issue that may impact our citizens.”
The Making a Difference Award was sponsored by Old National Bank and presented by Sandra Parra. The award was given to Baker Youth Club for their positive impact on the youth in our community. Tracy Furnivall shares that BYC is BLESSED to live and serve Kosciusko County youth. The generous support by businesses, foundations and community members is what has allowed them to serve for 91 years and focus on what they do best and that is: “To work with the youth of Kosciusko County to shape an educated, healthy and social identity based on Christian values,” which is the mission of Baker Youth Club.
Zimmer Biomet was awarded the Health and Wellness in the Workplace Award, sponsored by PNC Bank and presented by Angie Robbins. Robbins stated that, “with more that 18,000 Team Members worldwide (5,000 of those Team Members in Warsaw), Zimmer Biomet is committed to the health and wellness of their employees.
The Rising Star award is given to Kosciusko County’s highest performing new company. This year, the award, sponsored by Horizon Bank and presented by, Lindy Breeden, was awarded to Owl Manor Medical. “Owl Manor’s regenerative medicine platform is on the leading edge by leveraging human based programs to benefit horses of all disciplines and dogs facing joint or soft tissue ailments,” Breeden said.
Key Bank was this year’s Environment & Sustainability Award sponsor. Yolanda Hedington spoke about how this year’s winner, Washington STEM Academy, installed solar panels and beehives to not only be more environmentally friendly, but also to use as learning tools for their students.
This year’s Business of the Year Award was sponsored by Lake City Bank. David Findlay, presented the award to Splendor Boats. Splendor Boats is a family-owned business in its third generation. One of their nominators said, “You are competent and responsive. Thanks for making a great product and for having people around that do business with integrity and care and respect for the customer.”
The final awards presented for the evening were the highly anticipated Man and Woman of the Year Awards. These awards were co-sponsored by 1st Source Bank and Times-Union.
Doug Baumgardner of 1st Source Bank presented the Man of the Year Award first. Baumgardner stated that, “Despite the fact that his time is most valuable, our Man of the Year always takes time to listen, share his knowledge and provide guidance and encouragement.” The 2017 Man of the Year is Ron Truex.
Gary Gerard, Times Union, presented the Woman of the Year saying that one nominator described this year’s recipient as, “going out of her way to help others, a wise counselor to her friends and one of the most selfless, compassionate people I know.” Gerard then announced that the 2017 Woman of the Year is Joy Lavender. More information:
Two Valparaiso residents to be recognized by chamber for leadership
Beth Wrobel and Joanne Urschel have several things in common.
Both love their community. Both are in awe of the people with whom they work and volunteer.
Both are also being honored tonight during the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce's Salute to Leadership event at Sand Creek Country Club in Chesterton.
Wrobel has been named the 2017 Distinguished Community Leader, and Urshel will be presented the 2017 Legacy of Service award.
Beth Wrobel
"I was so surprised. There are such good leaders here in this community. To be picked out to be recognized in this community makes it even more humbling," said Wrobel, CEO of HealthLinc Inc., about receiving the recognition.
The Distinguished Community Leader award is the highest recognition given by the chamber on an individual. It is presented to a person who demonstrates leadership, is successful in promoting and developing business, involved in the community and enhances its quality of life.
Wrobel almost stumbled upon her role as the leader of the health care group, which operates 10 clinics in five counties and last year saw 27,000 individuals and had 110,000 patient visits.
A nearly 22-year employee of NIPSCO as a mechanical engineer, she left that job to help care for her father, who was diagnosed with cancer.
After his death, she said, and taking some time off, she began to pursue her MBA at Valparaiso University. It was there she ran into an acquaintance who asked her if she'd be interested in running Hilltop Community Health Center, later HealthLinc. Read more: NWI Times
St Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Regional Profile and Membership Directory
The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Regional Profile and Membership Directory is available at the St. Cloud Area Chamber today! Thanks to the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
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.
Barrington Chamber Announces New Board Leadership For 2018
Two Valparaiso residents to be recognized by chamber for leadership
Beth Wrobel and Joanne Urschel have several things in common.
Both love their community. Both are in awe of the people with whom they work and volunteer.
Both are also being honored tonight during the Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce's Salute to Leadership event at Sand Creek Country Club in Chesterton.
Wrobel has been named the 2017 Distinguished Community Leader, and Urshel will be presented the 2017 Legacy of Service award.
Beth Wrobel
"I was so surprised. There are such good leaders here in this community. To be picked out to be recognized in this community makes it even more humbling," said Wrobel, CEO of HealthLinc Inc., about receiving the recognition.
The Distinguished Community Leader award is the highest recognition given by the chamber on an individual. It is presented to a person who demonstrates leadership, is successful in promoting and developing business, involved in the community and enhances its quality of life.
Wrobel almost stumbled upon her role as the leader of the health care group, which operates 10 clinics in five counties and last year saw 27,000 individuals and had 110,000 patient visits.
A nearly 22-year employee of NIPSCO as a mechanical engineer, she left that job to help care for her father, who was diagnosed with cancer.
After his death, she said, and taking some time off, she began to pursue her MBA at Valparaiso University. It was there she ran into an acquaintance who asked her if she'd be interested in running Hilltop Community Health Center, later HealthLinc. Read more: NWI Times
St Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Regional Profile and Membership Directory
The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Regional Profile and Membership Directory is available at the St. Cloud Area Chamber today! Thanks to the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
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.
Barrington Chamber Announces New Board Leadership For 2018
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Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.
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