Saturday, March 31, 2018

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld: Special Report Week of April 2nd - Executive Director - Campbellsville/Taylor County Chamber (KY) of Commerce; President Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce; Director of Sales and Membership Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce - Christiansburg, VA; Membership Sales Director Business Association - Champaign, IL; Administrative Assistant Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce; Special Events Intern La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce - La Crosse, WI; Marketing & Communications Intern Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce - Holland, MI

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

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld: Special Report Week of April 2nd 


Executive Director - 
Campbellsville/Taylor County Chamber (KY) of Commerce



Executive Director – Job Duties and Description
The Director of the Chamber of Commerce is responsible for the ongoing, daily operations of the
Campbellsville-Taylor County Chamber of Commerce. It is necessary for this individual to interact on a
daily basis with the public and to work well in a team environment. This individual is an employee of the
Chamber of Commerce, and is governed by all of said organization’s rules, regulations and policies.
Duties
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite Programs, including but not limited to Word, Excel,
PowerPoint
• Proficient or possess means to acquire knowledge in web-based social media, site hosting, and
email listservs and other email/letter campaigns
• Maintain and Update Chamber website and social media accounts
• Create and Deliver Routine Emails, bulletins and updates regarding chamber, business and
community activities
• Strong ability to work and communicate with community and industry groups and leaders
• Develop strong relationships and rapport with membership
• Strong ability to communicate with the public and the membership, including but not limited to
member visits, direct member and non-member contact and coordination and regarding
upcoming events and activities
• Recruitment and attraction of new investors
• Retention of existing investors
• Promotion of chamber programs and investors
• Creation and implementation of non-investment revenue sources
• Planning and promotion of monthly luncheons and the annual banquet
• Attendance at monthly chamber board meetings
• Planning, sponsorship, and promotion of business seminars
• Development and production of new relocation packet
• Development, planning and implementation of retiree marketing program
• Other duties as assigned or required by the activities of the Chamber
Supervision
This position reports directly to the Chamber Board of Directors. The individual is expected to work
with the board as a team and to contribute as available.
Hours
This position is a full-time, salaried position. It may, on occasion, require the incumbent to be
available beyond the traditional work hours. This individual qualifies to participate in any and all
benefit programs as outlined in the Policy and Procedures Manual. Source: Campbellsville/Taylor County Chamber



President
Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce


Responsibilities and Job Description for:
President of the Carol Stream Chamber of Commerce (CSCC)
Position Summary
The President is the CSCC Chamber’s chief staff person. The President reports to and supports the Board of Directors (BOD). This role is also the “face of the Chamber”, acting as a community leader and ambassador of business advocacy. The President must be a dynamic and energetic, self-starter who can build relationships and manage multiple projects simultaneously. The President will create a healthy Chamber membership with continued growth in membership and increased members satisfaction.
Areas of Responsibility
Program Development
1. Develops an annual schedule of activities, meetings, projects and events to reflect the purpose and membership needs of the Chamber.
2. Works to develop and coordinate the necessary Chamber leadership and other positions, including volunteers, to accomplish the work of the Chamber.
3. Makes recommendations to the Board of Directors concerning matters affecting the direction of the Chamber.
Finance
1. Work with the Executive Committee and members of the Finance Committee in preparation of the annual budget to reflect the financial needs and resources of the Chamber and to assure the organization is managed within these financial guidelines.
2. Develop and implement general plans for meeting the budget.
3. Work with the Treasurer to generate and review financial reports and provide monthly statements of income and expenses to the Board of Directors.
4. Responsible for the managing of all funds received, and for their proper disbursement with budget allocations.
Staffing
1. Establish and maintain a staff consistent with program needs and financial guidelines. Responsibilities include recruiting, hiring, supervision and evaluation.
2. Establish basic work functions and standards of performance for staff.
Committees
1. Assists committees in setting goals, project development, fundraising efforts and project implementation to support the strategic plan.
2. Maintain files of meeting minutes
3. Maintain contact with all Chamber committees and be aware of current status of all Chamber projects with relations to the original objective, the current position, and work to be done.
Advisory
1. Serve as advisor to the Board of Directors in matters including the recruitment of officers and committee chairs, proposed projects, activities and opportunities.
2. Review the Chamber By-Laws and recommend changes in Chamber policies and practices.
2
3. Performs other duties within the responsibilities, as requested by the Chairman of the Board. Facilitates Board meetings by preparing agenda, President’s report, taking minutes and attending.
Member and Public Relations
1. Direct, prepare and disseminate all communications to the membership and the general public.
2. Represent the Chamber at various meetings in the community.
3. Maintain close liaisons with community civic and service organizations.
Membership Maintenance
1. Oversee the direction of all membership efforts of the Chamber, work with the Chairperson of Membership toward the solicitation of new members, and the maintenance of current membership.
2. Keep accurate records of membership through the Chamber database.
3. Recommend necessary changes in the membership dues as needed.
4. Increase Chamber membership through effective solicitation of non-member businesses.
General Administrative
1. Conduct the official correspondence of the Chamber.
2. Preserve all legal and historical documents related to the Chamber and its activities, programs, property and positions.
3. Meet all necessary legal and financial reporting requirements of the Chamber.
4. Approve and co-sign checks on all Board approved budget expenditures.
5. Direct office maintenance including replacement of equipment and purchase of additional equipment.
Education & Experience:
 Associate Degree (A.A.) or equivalent experience
 A strong background in sales, special event coordinating, project management, and people management.
Technical Skills:
 Computer skills: able to use a PC to produce basic/standard output (MS Word, Excel, e-mail Mail Merge, Email Blasts, etc.).
 Writing: has the ability to write substantive memos/letters clearly and concisely.
 Speaking: directs meetings; makes public presentations before groups.
 Decision-making: makes decisions of major consequences to the organization in a conscientious way based on a sound analysis of alternatives.
 Problem solving: uses analysis/diagnostic techniques to pinpoint the cause of complex problems, works with others until all aspects of the problem are resolved.
 Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Podcasts
Please email resume and cover letter to Bob McNees: robert@mcneesassociates.com



Director of Sales and Membership
Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce - Christiansburg, VA

The Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic, personable, highly organized and energetic individual to join their team. We are a member-based organization with over 650 companies and organizations. Our Chamber “promotes a positive environment for the operation and growth of the business.” Our vision is to be the “advocate for engaging business, government, and economic development within our community.”
Our core values support our mission and are listed below: Enhance member success Build and promote integrity Build community Create value
The Director of Member Services is responsible for all sales activities in the areas of recruiting new members, member relations, committee management and sponsorship sales. This position is an integral part of our team.
Pay Structure is Base Salary plus Commission; annual earning potential is $72,000 +.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Member Sales and Recruitment Recruitment of new members including outside sales based on goals established by the Executive Director and Board of Directors. Review detailed written prospect list with Executive Director by-weekly. Conduct regular contact and follow-up with prospects (phone, email, face-to-face). This includes the occasional cold call. Serve as initial point of contact for new and potential members.
Membership Services Sales Market and sell sponsorships for Chamber events which align with the marketing strategy of the member. Assist with creation of newsletter articles. Develop additional revenue streams with the approval of the Executive Director and Board of Directors.
Retention Assist in Coordinate call efforts with the Ambassadors, Board of Directors, and Executive Director. Assist with the coordination of bi-monthly member orientation program. Assist with coordination of programming which builds member-to-member connections. Work to identify marketing opportunities including sponsorships, programming, and events. Assist in the coordination of the annual member retention program according to goals established by Executive Director and Board of Directors.
Qualifications/Skills Proven sales experience, including regular sales goal attainment and appointment setting, preference is given to B2B sales experience. Planning, developing and executing sales strategies with the approval of ED. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. Strong public speaking/presentation experience. Excellent professional skills. Ability to multi-task and prioritize deadlines. Strong organizational skills and proven ability to work independently. Ability to work within a team structure. Working knowledge of our community preferred. Experience with membership organization preferred. Additional duties as assigned by the Executive Director. Preferred residence Montgomery County (Towns of Blacksburg or Christiansburg or County)
Education and Experience Bachelor’s Degree in related/appropriate field. Minimum of 2 years’ experience in related field. Proven sales record in increasing growth/revenue. Experienced in database management and Microsoft Office Suite. Experienced in social media outlets; Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.
Job Type: Full-time
Salary: $30,000.00 to $72,000.00 /year


Membership Sales Director

Business Association - Champaign, IL


Join a dynamic, private membership-based association that represents over 1000 businesses in Champaign County. We are seeking an individual that has a proven sales track record and excellent verbal and written communication skills. The desired candidate must be out-going and work well with people and be able to meet goals. The selected candidate must be able to accommodate non-traditional work hours for Chamber related events and activities; must be able to close a sale with minimal supervision; and must be a self starter. In addition, this position is responsible for helping to retain the existing membership base. The selected candidate must be able to provide excellent customer service and demonstrate a desire to excel. 401K plan and health insurance offered.
Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor Degree. Knowledge of Microsoft Office products including Word, Outlook and Excel. Minimum of 2 to 4 years successful professional sales experience preferred. Comfortable base plus commission. No phone calls please.
Send resume to:
Champaign County Chamber of Commerce
Attn: President & CEO
303 W. Kirby Ave.
Champaign, IL. 61820
Job Type: Full-time
Required experience:
  • Sales: 3 years
  • Marketing: 2 years
Required education:
  • Bachelor's
Job Location:
  • Champaign, IL
Required license or certification:
  • Illinois Drivers License

Administrative Assistant

Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce



Job Description
Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry Overview:
The Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry is an award winning regional organization that believes in a thriving and prosperous Joliet region for all.  Organized in 1914, the Chamber convenes and leads a collection of business and community stakeholders to provide services targeted to increase growth and opportunity.  We have membership of 1,200 plus and a staff of 7.  The Chamber is proud of its innovative programs that support talent development, advocacy/public policy, and business services.
Position Title:  Administrative Assistant (28 hours per week)
Reports to:  Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry President and Vice President
Summary of Position: This position is designed to provide diversified administrative/secretarial duties and assistance to the Chamber staff.
Responsibilities:
  • Act as personal greeter to all visitors
  • Schedule required meetings, send notices, make reminder calls
  • Prepare agendas, transcribe minutes of meetings, prepare for distribution, proofread typed materials, edit and make changes
  • Confirm submitted reservations for programs and events
  • Maintain Chamber committee lists for Board of Directors and all boards of the Chamber
  • Assist with bank deposits
  • Collate and assemble reports and documents
  • Draft, type and format letters and answer correspondence
  • Collect data and provide research and administrative support for special projects
  • Answer phone, screen and direct calls
  • Respond to calls and visits from members and prospects, determine urgency of situation, and refer to appropriate person to handle the situation
  • Send renewal thank you letters
  • Maintain daily calendar, collaborate with all areas, activities and events
  • Attend meetings as required, participate on committees as directed
  • Maintain all records and files
  • Maintain board room, coffee area, reception area and information kiosks
  • Assist in special events as needed
  • Order supplies
  • Perform all mail duties, record checks, enter reservations, coordinate mailings a take care of postage needs
  • Schedule e-alerts 
  • Prepare monthly newsletter
  • Assist on Community Leadership School committee
  • Fulfill requests for Certificate of Origin
  • Track member investment package usage
  • Maintain confidentiality
  • Perform duties as assigned
More information: Joliet Region Chamber



Special Events Intern
La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce - La Crosse, WI


Do you have a passion for planning events? Are you looking for an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional and fun workplace? Find your opportunity at the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce! The Special Events intern works directly with the Operations Director to assist in planning, promotion and execution of special meetings and events.
Description
The La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce seeks a dynamic, self-starter to assist in special event planning efforts. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in event logistics, marketing and communications, project planning and event management.
Responsibilities
The main responsibility of this position is to help ensure the successful implementation of various programs, meetings, and events to celebrate the La Crosse Area Chamber’s 150th anniversary in 2018.
  • Correspond with vendors, exhibitors and event partners as needed
  • Troubleshoot inquiries and provide information to our members about events
  • Assist in the creation of marketing materials for the events
  • Write and schedule social media posts and electronic promotions for events
  • Recruit volunteers for events, as needed
  • Assist with on-site setup, breakdown, event photography and registration needs
  • Assist with post-event tasks, including social media, attendee follow-up and survey administration
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Seeking a degree in business, nonprofit management, public administration, management, or other related field
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Self-motivated, able to take initiative and manage projects independently
  • Ability to prioritize tasks and meet firm deadlines
  • Professional demeanor
  • Excellent computer literacy, including proficiency with Microsoft Office and the Google Suite
  • Previous internship or experience in event planning is a plus
Start Date: May 1st – flexible start date
Time Commitment: 10 – 15 hours/week, with possibility for more during the summer based on event needs. Normal working hours are between 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Some evening hours may be required for events. Requires a minimum 3 month commitment.
To Apply: Please submit a cover letter and resume
Job Type: Internship



Marketing & Communications Intern
Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce - Holland, MI

Job Title: Marketing & Communications Intern
Reports to: Marketing & Communications Manager
The Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce seeks a dynamic, self-starter to assist with marketing and communications efforts. This internship is an excellent opportunity to experience various aspects of marketing and gain broad experience, all while meeting and working with business professionals throughout our community.
We operate on five core values, and are looking for team members who reflect who we are. We want to hear from you if you…
  • Have “Contagious Energy with a Positive Attitude” that keeps our members engaged and our events fresh.
  • Pride yourself on “Delivering Remarkable Experiences” and raising the bar so our members get the WOW factor.
  • Demonstrate “It’s All About You!” by providing excellent customer service so that our members feel the love.
  • Like to look for new ideas to help us “Learn, Innovate and Share”.
  • “Think Big, Be Great” by refusing to settle for being average.
Responsibilities:
  • Maintain the Chamber’s social media presence, including scheduling Facebook updates.
  • Assist in planning, writing and managing the monthly CONNECT magazine.
  • Update the West Coast Chamber website when needed.
  • Create multimedia presentations and short videos as needed.
  • Assist with production of collateral materials for events.
  • Attend and assist at events as needed, specifically the Golf Outing on July 24.
  • Collaborate with staff on new ideas for marketing and communications.
Qualifications:
  • Firm grasp of available tools and platforms in the social media space.
  • Working toward a college degree, preferably in a related field (e.g., English, Marketing/Communications, or Public Relations).
  • Must be proficient in PowerPoint, Word, and Excel. Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop highly desired.
  • An effective communicator, both written and oral.
  • Have basic experience shooting and editing videos.
  • Self-motivated, good organizational skills, detail-oriented, ability to prioritize, multi-task and meet deadlines.
Start Date: Position open until filled, requires commitment through the summer.
Hours: 8 – 12 hours/week, preferably 2-3 days a week in the office.
Compensation: This is Paid internship. Will participate in college credit programs.
To Apply: Please a send cover letter and resume.
Job Type: Internship
Required education:
  • High school




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

Friday, March 30, 2018

Chicago Fed Midwest Economy Index points to a pickup in Midwest economic growth in February; Virginia Peninsula Chamber names new CEO; Business Breakfast Bytes, from the Fox Cities Chamber, will focus on Sustainability in the Workplace in April; Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory; Howell named Great American Main Street Award recipient at national convention in Kansas City; Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey (Chamber Mentor); Michigan City Chamber of Commerce celebrating a century; The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce Guide & Map; NKY Chamber: Sales Essential Workshop - 5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Media; NKY Chamber: Sales Essential Workshop - 5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Media; New Lighthouse In Waveland a Tourist Attraction; Marshall Area Chamber: From the Directors Desk; 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!



Chicago Fed Midwest Economy Index points to a pickup in Midwest economic growth in February


The Midwest Economy Index (MEI) moved up to +0.44 in February from +0.34 in January. Contributions to the February MEI from three of the four broad sectors of nonfarm business activity and three of the five Seventh Federal Reserve District states increased from January. The relative MEI rose to +0.31 in February from –0.15 in January. Contributions to the February relative MEI from all four sectors and all five states increased from January. Read more: Chicago Federal Reserve


Virginia Peninsula Chamber names new CEO
The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce named a new president and CEO to succeed Mike Kuhns, who is retiring at the end of March.
Robert S. McKenna, who served 27 years in the Navy before retiring as a captain in mid-2011, starts as the chamber’s new leader on Thursday, Kuhns said.
“Bob’s extensive leadership experience, at the highest level, is what separated him from all the other applicants,” said Chamber Board Chairman Dan Chenoweth. “We wanted someone who can continue our focus on regional collaborative leadership and who has a proven record of team building.”
McKenna lives in Newport News and was selected from more than 185 applicants to lead the 1,400-member organization, Kuhns said. Kuhns will work with McKenna through March as part of the leadership transition. Daily Press


Business Breakfast Bytes, from the Fox Cities Chamber, will focus on Sustainability in the Workplace in April



APPLETON, Wis. (March 29, 2018) – The Fox Cities Chamber’s monthly educational program, Business Breakfast Bytes, will focus on sustainability in the workplace in April. A panel of experts will provide education on the basics of sustainability, the benefits of implementing sustainability initiatives into the workplace and the simple ways to incorporate a “green” lifestyle at work.
People may be unaware of the various categories relating to sustainability as well as the smaller efforts that can be made to lessen the impact on the environment. In recognition of Earth Day in April, attendees will hear from a local small business on how they have taken on the mission of becoming the most environmentally responsible credit union in the nation. There will also be a discussion on the process of becoming a “Travel Green Wisconsin” certified location.

Join Heather McCombs, Sustainable Management Instructor from UW Oshkosh, as she leads the session. The panel of experts will include Kelle Hartman, Children & Family Educator from Green Bay Botanical Garden and Roni Kasperek, Sustainability Manager from Evergreen Credit Union.

"This discussion will address how sustainability applies to three key areas of your business: facilities, operations, and management, and what the costs and benefits of implementing them are. Learn how to get your business started with a green team and look at some third-party rating systems that your business can choose as a guide through the process," shared session facilitator McCombs.

Business Breakfast Bytes are a monthly business educational program focused on providing our small to mid-sized business members across the Fox Cities Region with education and resources addressing top business concerns.

Registration for each individual session is required. Fox Cities Chamber members are allowed to bring a guest and may use the registration link on the Chamber website or call (920) 734-7101 to register. Please visit the Chamber website for complete details of the April session, being hosted at Pullman’s at Trolley Square in Appleton from 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM on Tuesday, April 17. Details and registration can be found at foxcitieschamber.com.

For immediate questions, please contact MiKayla Kunde, Member Engagement Coordinator, by email mkunde@foxcitieschamber.com or phone (920) 734-7101.



Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory

The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Profile & Membership Directory is available at the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber today! Thanks to Jon MaynardPam Swain, Rosie Vassalo and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!




Oxford Mississippi 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory


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.



Howell named Great American Main Street Award recipient at national convention in Kansas City

Members, staff and board of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the Howell MainStreet DDA and board members for receiving the Great American Mainstreet Award (GAMSA).  At a live stream at Aberrant Ales, a new brewpub and eatery in downtown Howell, hundreds of proud Howell residents, business leaders and community leaders gathered to cross their fingers and cheer on Howell as everyone eagerly awaited the announcement from the Main Street America presenters in Kansas City. The three national GAMSA award recipients for 2018 are: Rock Spring, Wyoming, Oregon City, Oregon and Howell, Michigan. The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce works in collaboration with Howell Main Street DDA and DDA Board to secure placemaking efforts, making Howell a destination location to eat, shop, play, worship, go to school, work and live. These efforts benefit area residents and business owners, so much so that these honors belong to all of us who call Howell home. This is the philosophy that the Howell Chamber relays with their awards as well, including 2016 Outstanding Chamber of the Year and the Michigan WORKS! “Outstanding Workforce Development Program,” received in 2017. It requires diligence and dedication to be nominated and submit the applications for these awards. The Howell Chamber is proud to be part of this outstanding community and look forward to more adventures right here in Howell!

Via www.mainstreet.org:

More information: Howell Area Chamber



Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey (Chamber Mentor)



RULE #112     Don’t be sorry.




Michigan City Chamber of Commerce celebrating a century

The Michigan City Chamber of Commerce will kick off its 100th anniversary this year by hosting its first celebratory event on March 24.

The Centennial Gala will be held from 5:30 to 11 p.m. at Blue Chip's Stardust Event Center, 778 Blue Chip Drive.

The gala will celebrate both the chamber's and the business community's 100 years of success, chamber President Mary Jo Orlowski said.


"We will honor longtime members and focus on the important role all of our members play in making Michigan City a great place to grow a business," Orlowski said.

"We encourage members and the public to join us for this once-in-a-century evening featuring special guests, signature cocktails, gourmet dining and live music."

Cost is $100 per person. Advance registration is required. Participants can register and pay online at MichiganCityChamber.com or call 219-874-6221.

Charlie Keene, vice president of General Insurances Services, serves as the chamber Board of Directors president.

Keene said he is proudest of the chamber's support of the Michigan City Area Schools and its support and development of Lakefront Career Network, a committee that raises money to help those with needs.

"The future of our chamber, and I'd like to see it continue for another 100 years and beyond, is on our focus on young folks so it will continue to grow," Keene said.

The chamber was founded on June 14, 1918, by a group of men including Joseph Hays, who owned Hays Corp., Orlowski said.

Meetings were held at Marquette Hall and the first president was Leon Kramer, who served part-time and in an unpaid position. Read more: NWI Times




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!








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.



NKY Chamber: Sales Essential Workshop - 5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Media
Tuesday, April 24, 2018 9:30 AM - 10:30 AMEST

Northern Kentucky Chamber Of Commerce
300 Buttermilk Pike Suite 330
Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017


5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Medi


Learning Objectives in this session will be:

• How to create an impactful social media presence

• How to reach your target audience

• How to build lasting relationships on social media

• How to engage effectively, promptly and consistently


This session will be presented by Michelle Hummel who was recently nominated for the Woman Owned Business of the Year! She’s a passionate Social Media Trainer with 15+ years of successful online business development, sales and marketing experience. She holds a valuable Internet Marketing Degree and travels Nationwide providing social media keynotes and in-depth training. Read more: NKY Chamber of Commerce



New Lighthouse In Waveland a Tourist Attraction

A new lighthouse is making a tourist attraction out of bathrooms on the beach, by incorporating them into a $1.9 million lighthouse with a roof-level viewing deck.

"We're the only city on the Coast that doesn't have a bathroom facility on the beach," Mayor Mike Smith told the Sun Herald .

Several of those cities have lighthouses. The Biloxi Lighthouse is one of that city's biggest attractions. Gulfport built a replica lighthouse at Jones Park after Hurricane Katrina and Pascagoula rebuilt the iconic Round Island Lighthouse as a beacon at the entrance of the city.

The Waveland lighthouse is for tourism rather than navigation, and officials say the deck will provide excellent water views.

"It will be an attraction for the city to draw people to Waveland beaches," said Tish Williams, executive director of Hancock Chamber of Commerce. "The Waveland beaches are beautiful."

Groundbreaking was held Friday for the project, which is under a 280-day contract, WLOX-TV reported .

"Oh my gosh, it's just amazing," Cindy Rice told the station. "We are from Michigan, we winter down here, and this has been in the works for so long."

Smith said he expects the new beach volleyball courts will be used much more once bathrooms are available.

He also says he hopes work can be finished by the end of the summer.

Former Mayor David Garcia first proposed the idea.

"We improved the design and sought out funding," said Smith.

He said no local taxes will be needed. The money is coming from Mississippi Tidelands funds paid primarily by waterfront casinos, GoMesa money from offshore oil rigs and a sea wall tax, which comes from a gasoline tax. Read more: WTVA.org



Marshall Area Chamber: From the Directors Desk

Happy Spring! We have quite a bit of great things going on in our community. Take a look at the calendar of events, be sure to get out and enjoy all the great opportunities! Our annual career fair is shaping up nicely and several of you have registered for the marketing lunch and learn. We are very anxious to host an open house, April 20, to show off our newly remodeled building and introduce our small business's in the building.
The community wide yard sale is coming up in May and not to long after, the end of the school year.  On May 16th, we will be touring the first grade class downtown to learn about the Walldog murals.  Our investors and potential investors will be invited to hear updates from the county, city, school system and the chamber at the community update late May.
The National Road Heritage Corridor group will be meeting on April 12 at 6pm at the Martinsville Public Library (downstairs), if you are interested, please join us.
We have had a lot of interest in our community in the last several months, I have been fielding a lot of phone calls and tours of our great community, but lets remember we often bring guests to your businesses, lets leave them with the BEST impression of Marshall as we can!  



Happy Easter,
Jennifer Bishop





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

Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: The End Of Average - Todd Rose; Eau Claire Chamber expands its wage survey to central Wisconsin; Rochester Regional Chamber member event: Starting Up: An Introduction to Michigan's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem; Lake County Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory; MEC Names Cathy Northington Chief Operating Officer; Paul Rumler takes helm of Quad-Cities Chamber; New acquisition makes Town Square Publications country's largest publisher of chamber guides; Northern Virginia Chamber honors heroism, service of public-safety personnel; Boyle County Chamber of Commerce names new director; Chamber of Commerce Serving Lexington, Buena Vista, Rockbridge County 2017 Community Map; Shelby County Chamber business awards down to 3 finalists; 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!



Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: The End Of Average - Todd Rose

Unlocking our potential by Embracing what makes us Different

Are you above average? Is your child an A student? Is your employee an introvert or an extrovert? Every day we are measured against the "average person," judged according to how closely we resemble the average--or how far we exceed it. The assumption that average-based yardsticks like academic GPAs, personality tests, and annual performance reviews reveal something meaningful about our ability is so ingrained in our consciousness that we never question it. But this assumption, argues Harvard scientist Todd Rose, is spectacularly wrong.

In The End of Average, Rose, the director of the Mind, Brain, and Education program at Harvard University, uses the new science of the individual to reveal the remarkable fact that no one is average. Not your neighbors, not your co-workers, not your kids, and not you. This isn’t hollow sloganeering or ivory tower esoterica—it’s a frank mathematical fact with enormous practical consequences for your chances for success. Our schools and businesses are all designed to evaluate and promote talent based upon the mythical notion of the average person, a one-size-fits-all model that ignores the true nature of our individuality. But in The End of Average, Rose finally provides the tools to break free.

Weaving science, history, and his own experiences as a high school dropout, Rose offers a powerful alternative to the average--three key principles derived from the science of the individual: The jaggedness principle (talent is never one-dimensional), the context principle (personality traits do not exist), and the pathways principle (we all walk the road less traveled). These "principles of individuality" unveil our true uniqueness, long obscured by an educational system and workplace that relentlessly judges our value by weighing us against the average.

An empowering manifesto in the ranks of Drive, Quiet, Mindset, and The Power of Habit—Dr. Rose's book will enable you to reach your full potential by leveraging what is truly distinctive about you. Read more: Todd Rose



Eau Claire Chamber expands its wage survey to central Wisconsin


An annual wage survey that includes the Chippewa Valley is expanding its reach to another part of Wisconsin. 

Chambers of commerce in central Wisconsin are being included in the survey, which previously focused on western Wisconsin workplaces in the Chippewa Valley and Coulee Region.
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce sent surveys out last week to employers and wants responses by May 18. Information from those voluntary surveys will be used to create a report in mid-July on wages in western and central Wisconsin.
Employers interested in participating can find survey forms and instructions on the chamber’s website, EauClaireChamber.org.
Data from individual employers is kept confidential.
For more information, contact Casey Schumacher at 715-858-0614 orschumacher@eauclairechamber.org. Source: Leader-Telegram

Rochester Regional Chamber member event: Starting Up: An Introduction to Michigan's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem


Thursday, March 29, 2018: 9:30 - 11 a.m.
Free to Attend

OU INC at Shotwell-Gustafson Pavilion
419 Golf View Lane, Rochester

Do you have a high-tech startup? How about an early-stage, growth-based business? Are you looking to bring your innovative idea to market? If so, OU INC invites you to attend Starting Up, a workshop exploring Michigan’s “entrepreneurial ecosystem,” designed to help you start and/or grow your tech-based business. Steve Kent, OU INC’s client strategist, will help you navigate the wide range of resources the State of Michigan offers – including business incubators, SmartZones, various support services, university technology acceleration and commercialization, and funding programs – to identify what’s right for you and your business. A brief Q&A session will follow. More information: Rochester Regional Chamber



Lake County Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory


The Lake County Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory is available at the Lake County Chamber! Thanks to Stewart Kerr, Julieth 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.

MEC Names Cathy Northington Chief Operating Officer


Cathy L. Northington has been named Chief Operating Officer of the Mississippi Economic Council, the State Chamber of Commerce. She previously served as Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer.
Northington began at MEC more than a decade ago as a part-time employee and has continued to work her way up, managing a variety of key projects and programs. Since 2007, she has directed Leadership Mississippi, the nation's second-oldest leadership program. She has also managed MEC's three major meetings: The MEC Annual Meeting, Hobnob Mississippi and MEC Capital Day, each with over 1,500 business and community leaders and elected officials attending.
"Cathy is an invaluable asset to our team and has excelled in helping ensure MEC serves as the voice of business in Mississippi," said Scott Waller, President & CEO of MEC. "Cathy is a true success story. I look forward to seeing what she will accomplish in her new leadership role and the positive impact it will have on our organization and the state of Mississippi."
The Jackson native studied marketing at Mississippi College and enjoys giving back to the community through her volunteer work as a member of the Junior League of Jackson and American Heart Association's Circle of Red. A mother of three, Northington is also a member of the Madison Ridgeland Rotary Club and a board member of R.E.A.L. Christian Foundation.
Northington has been chosen as the Our Mississippi Magazine 2018 Business Women of the Year. She was named the 2017 Young Gifted and Empowered Leader of the Year, was a 2012 recipient of the Mississippi Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 award, and was a member of the Mississippi Business Journal's 50 Leading Business Women in Mississippi for 2014. Source: MEC


Paul Rumler takes helm of Quad-Cities Chamber

As the Quad-Cities Chamber of Commerce's new president and CEO, Paul Rumler is excited for a homecoming with his former employer and his hometown, as well as the opportunity to help advance both.
On Monday, the chamber announced Rumler will lead the bi-state chamber and economic development organization effective April 16. Rumler, who worked for the Quad-Cities chamber from 2006-2016, has been working as the chief strategy officer at the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
"I’m excited about the potential for the Quad-Cities region …," Rumler said. "We have opportunities in this community right now like we’ve never seen before and together we’ll continue to create a stronger economy for the benefit of all businesses and Quad-Citizens."
In a telephone interview, Rumler said he was not looking for a job when executive search firm Waverly Partners contacted him as part of the chamber's CEO search. He was among a field of 40 candidates.
"I'm most excited about the chamber's volunteer leadership, member engagement, the community partners and, more importantly, by the staff. They have built a lot of momentum over the past six to eight months," said Rumler, who now wants to "see what we can do as a team."
Rumler fills a vacancy left in July when former CEO Tara Barney resigned, announcing she was stepping down "to pass the torch to new leadership." Last month, the Southwest Indiana Chamber in Evansville, Indiana, announced Barney as its new president and CEO.
"Paul has an established track record demonstrating forward-thinking and collaborative leadership," Pat Eikenberry, chair of the Quad-Cities Chamber board and the CEO Search Task Force, said.
"We were blessed to have excellent candidates. It made the decision more difficult. But at the end of the day, Paul was the guy," he said, adding the decision was unanimous with the board and the search committee.
Asked if Rumler's Quad-City experience was an advantage, Eikenberry said, "Being here in the past can be good and bad. But because Paul left and gained new experience in Grand Rapids, he had something to bring back to us. He came (to the interview) with 30-, 60- and 90-day plans. That really demonstrated the fact he could hit the ground running."
Rumler was involved in several Quad-City chamber initiatives during his tenure that the chamber sees as some of the region's greatest economic opportunities today, including the Manufacturing Innovation Hub, the regional 2030 plan, and passenger rail between Chicago and the Quad-Cities. His roles included talent attraction and retention, community development, public policy and economic development. Read more: Quad City Times


New acquisition makes Town Square Publications country's largest publisher of chamber guides


Town Square Publications, a subsidiary of Paddock Publications Inc., announced Friday it has purchased the assets of Nashville-based SouthComm Publishing.
The custom publishing division for chamber of commerce magazines of SouthComm Inc., also based in Nashville, has been a significant competitor of Paddock's Town Square Publications since Paddock entered the chamber of commerce specialty publications business nearly 10 years ago. The acquisition expands Town Square's national footprint, particularly in Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Virginia and Florida, making it the largest publisher of chamber of commerce magazines and directories in the country.

Details of the transaction are not being disclosed. As the operations of SouthComm Publishing and Town Square are so closely aligned, the transition for chamber publishing partners should be seamless, said Paddock Publications President and Chief Operations Officer Scott Stone. No interruption in magazine sales or deliveries is anticipated.
For Paddock, this is the fourth major acquisition of a chamber publishing company's assets in the past four years. The others include: Village Profile of Elgin, CommunityLink of Pinckneyville and Lawton Publishing of Spokane, Washington.
"The SouthComm acquisition is in keeping with the company's strategic plan to grow Paddock's business in new and different ways," said Douglas K. Ray, Chairman, CEO and Publisher. "The decision to expand into the nondaily newspaper business has proved to be an excellent one, as the company's niche divisions are contributing nicely to the overall revenue and profitability of Paddock Publications."
Town Square began developing chamber publishing partnerships in Chicago, the suburbs and neighboring states. Today, Town Square works with chambers of commerce across the country to secure advertising sales for and product development of community guides and chamber directories.
Town Square also has recently begun working with convention and visitor bureaus on development of their magazine-quality custom publications.
"SouthComm Publishing was a strong competitor to Town Square for many years, and this acquisition broadens our profile from coast to coast," Stone said. "It reaffirms us as the top chamber publishing company in the country."
Paddock Publications has been a family-owned business since 1872. In addition to the Daily Herald, dailyherald.com and Town Square, Paddock's product suite includes Reflejos, Business Ledger, a large array of niche publications, a community newspaper group serving central and southern Illinois and a commercial printing operation in Schaumburg. Read more: Daily Herald


Northern Virginia Chamber honors heroism, service of public-safety personnel

Police, firefighters, medics and sheriff’s personnel went to extreme lengths last year to keep the public safe locally and in the hurricane-damaged Caribbean.
The Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce honored scores of first responders at its 40th annual Valor Awards on March 9 at the Hilton McLean Tysons Corner.
The event, presided over by master of ceremonies Chris Lawrence of NBC4, saw the awarding of a rare Gold Medal of Valor to Fairfax County’s urban search-and-rescue team, Virginia Task Force 1.
In the effort to save lives and alleviate suffering in parts of the Caribbean ravaged by Hurricane Irma, Virginia Task Force 1 last September deployed to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where members established a base of operations and conducted search-and-rescue operations in the Virgin Islands.
While the 80-plus-member team was conducting lifesaving and humanitarian aid missions in Puerto Rico, Hurricane Maria shaped up as a Category 5 storm poised to strike San Juan. Despite the oncoming hurricane, the team continued its search-and-rescue operations in the Virgin Islands, endured the assault of Hurricane Maria for 24 hours and then resumed rescue efforts.
One team member was Vienna Volunteer Fire Chief John Morrison, a 15-year member of Virginia Task Force 1 who was taking part in his eighth disaster-relief trip.
Morrison spent two weeks on assignment in the Caribbean and hunkered down in a fortified-concrete structure when Hurricane Maria barreled through. He spent four days on St. John in the U.S. Virginia Islands, which suffered severe tree damage, and marveled at local residents’ resiliency. Read more: Inside NOVA

Boyle County Chamber of Commerce names new director
The Boyle County Chamber of Commerce has announced Jeff Jewel, of Oregon, as the organization’s new executive director.
Jewel replaces Paula Fowler, who left in late December after being director for 14 years. Myrna Miller has been interim director since that time.
On Monday, the chair of the chamber, Rick Waldon said an extensive search during several months brought in more than 30 candidates, but Jewel was the right person for the job.

“Jeff has a solid background in community service and chamber management having previously served as the executive director for the Cannon Beach, Oregon Chamber of Commerce.”
Miller said, “It’s a good fit because of his enthusiasm, his passion for work and passion for all of the things that he does. He has so much experience so many new ideas, and all of that can help our chamber … He’ll be one of the leaders in town.”
“I think that’s not only going to be great for our chamber, he’s going to be great for our whole community,” Miller said.
On Monday morning, Jewel was at work in the chamber office along with Miller and Walton, and beginning to get more acquainted with the town. Read more: Advocate Messenger



Chamber of Commerce Serving Lexington, Buena Vista, Rockbridge County 2017 Community Map


The new Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map is available at the Chamber today! Thanks to Tracy Lyons, Chrystal Lee 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 guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.


Shelby County Chamber business awards down to 3 finalists

The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s three business awards are down to a trio of finalists.
Each local business will be featured at the 2018 Chamber Awards Gala on March 1 with a professional video presentation followed by the announcement of the award winners for Large Business Champion, Small Business Champion and Non-Profit Champion.
“It’s an absolute honor to be nominated,” said Julie Metz, executive director of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce.
The red carpet event takes place March 1 at the Indiana Grand Racing & Casino Race Course Clubhouse. Tickets are still available at $50 per person or $500 for a table of 10. Contact the Chamber of Commerce at 317-398-6647 to RSVP before Friday’s deadline.
Seven individual award winners have already been announced and also will be honored at the gala celebration. They are Sherry Talbert (Volunteer of the Year), Ralanda Smallfelt (Golden Pineapple Customer Service Award), Charles O’Connor (Citizen of the Year), Connie Larkey (Pay It Forward Award), Ray Wetnight (Business Person of the Year), Keith Starost (Educator of the Year) and Luke Williams (Shelby County Community Lifetime Achievement Award).
The Chamber opted to start releasing those names in advance so the winners could attend the event with family and friends.
“We used to keep it a secret but it became about how could we get (the winners) to the event without revealing they had been selected,” said Metz. “I was telling so many lies. This way it’s a lot less stressful to me and such a better way to honor them. The entire community can come out and celebrate them.”
Once the nomination period closed, Metz had a selection committee peruse through the business nominees and create a short list of three for each business category. Then the committee made their final selections which will be revealed March 1, starting at 7:15 p.m. Read more: The Shelbyville News



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