Chamber of Commerce Daily News

Town Square Publications (https://www.townsquarepublications.com) publishes two hundred world class turn-key chamber directories, community guides and maps annually at no cost to the chamber of commerce. We are Employee-Owned & part of the Daily Herald Media Group.149 years old and thriving through innovation daily. Chamber of Commerce Daily News follows chamber news, education, economic development, chamber jobs, and other related chamber issues/events. Best, John Dussman

Wednesday, September 19, 2018

Chamber Executive Wisconsin Intelligence Report

September 4, 2018

Note from Susan Nyffenegger, WMC:

Join us in Wausau, September 19-21, for the Wisconsin Chamber Execs Conference!

The Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives annual conference and retreat will take place September 19-21 at the brand new Hilton Garden Inn in Wausau, Wisconsin. Conference highlights include presentations on the state of the local chamber, communicating your chamber’s value, strengthening chamber boards and committees, sharing of best practices, getting found on Google Search & Maps, managing the workforce talent pipeline, and more. Breakout sessions on member recruitment and retention, dark stores legislation and tips for online marketing success will also be offered. And exhibitors will be on-hand to showcase their products and services that can help you grow your chamber. Participants will also be able to experience Wausau through offsite group activities. In addition, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker has accepted the invitation to speak at the event. To learn more about the conference and to register, please visit: https://www.wmc.org/event/wcce-annual-conference-retreat/

Congratulations Greater Green Bay Chamber! Voted Finalist and Top Three in the nation among chambers in Category 3 of the ACCE 2018 Competition for Chamber of the Year. Only 13 chambers out of more than 7,000 chambers of commerce across the United States were designated finalists for the year 2018. Quite an achievement!

Chamber host: 'Breakfast in the Valley' celebrates 22 years in Eau Claire

Early birds got a tasty breakfast on Friday. Thousands of Chippewa Valley locals flooded to the Eau Claire Exposition Center for a meal.

The 22nd annual 'Breakfast in the Valley,' hosted by the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce had muffins, eggs, and of course, those famous Wisconsin cheese curds. Organizers estimated serving around 3,500 people with the help of more than 350 volunteers, some up since 2 a.m. Friday morning getting things ready. The purpose of the event was to celebrate local farming and agriculture.

"When you look at the farming industry today, much smaller than it ever has been," said David Minor (pictured), president and CEO of the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. "Still, the agriculture industry is the second [biggest] industry in the state of Wisconsin. These are hidden businesses for the most part, so it's nice that people do come that one day a year to help celebrate it and to tell these people thank you, we appreciate what you do for us."

Besides filling up bellies and learning about local businesses, guests could also participate in raffles and watch a milk chugging contest. News 18's own Aaron Rhody joined in on the fun, but unfortunately couldn't bring home the gold. Read more: WQOW

Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Muskego 2018 Community Resource Guide and Business 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.

Draft of Cottage Grove brand book presented

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Cottage Grove is closer to answering the question, “Who are we?”

A semifinal draft of the Cottage Grove Brand Book and community survey results were shared June 18 with the Village Board by Cottage Grove Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Paula Severson (pictured) and Kristin Runge, community development specialist with the UW-Extension Center for Community and Economic Development.

Runge said survey respondents talked about the people, the relationships and the care community members have toward one another when describing Cottage Grove. Residents are also sensitive to wanting to be separate from Madison and not a suburb of the city, she added.

For the past 18 months, the Cottage Grove Branding Committee, the chamber of commerce and UW-Extension researched and drafted the brand strategy. In 2017, the committee conducted a community identity survey through the UW-River Falls Survey Center.

According to the Cottage Grove Brand Book, the goals of developing a community brand identity are to appeal to residents and stakeholders, differentiate Cottage Grove from the other communities within the greater Madison and Dane County region, encourage and welcome potential residents and stakeholders to invest in Cottage Grove, improve public and private community assets within Cottage Grove, help Cottage Grove attract and retain business and retail development, and leverage existing municipal and private investments in the community.

Modern newcomers said, through this survey, they found the village to provide a warm welcome. Cottage Grove attracted new residents at a 6.5 percent rate from 2010-17. This is higher than Dane County, which was 5.6 percent, and the state of Wisconsin, which was 1.9 percent. Seventy-three percent of the residents in the village have remained in their current home for more than eight years.

Residents reported people in the community are friendly, trustworthy and watch out for one another. About 77 percent of survey respondents living in the community for fewer than five years reported spending social time with neighbors several times a year, and 45 percent reported social time with neighbors several times a month.

The other key aspects to the brand of Cottage Grove is it provides a high quality of life and is close to education, government and business entities.

Runge and Severson said they would like to have the town and the village work together for the community brand.

The next steps are to create and approve a final draft of the brand book. Read more: HGN News

Meet the newest Certified Chamber Executives

Eleven chamber of commerce leaders from eight states have recently joined an elite roster of professionals who have earned the Certified Chamber Executive (CCE) designation.

Since the first CCE designation was conferred some 40 years ago, more than 500 chamber professionals have become certified. More than 250 people have an active certification today.

ACCE celebrated this year’s Certified Chamber Executives — Steve Baas, Marvin Bond, Lisa Hermes, Tony Howard, Jamee Jolly, Christine Kennedy, Sandra Lindquist, Roy Nascimento, Lynn Olberding, Jodie Perry and Erin Williams — in Des Moines at the #ACCEAwards Show on Wednesday, July 18.

“The CCE program assesses and tests the applicant's knowledge of core chamber management areas —management, planning and development, membership and communication, and operations,” says Bob Quick, CCE, president and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc. and 2017-18 CCE commission chairman. “Chamber professionals who are designated CCEs have rightfully earned this outstanding recognition through hard work, countless hours of dedication to their field, and leadership of their chamber to achieve the chamber’s goals. We are proud to have this year’s class join a long tradition of professional excellence.”

Well done, Steve Baas, CCE !

Senior Vice President for Governmental Affairs & Public Policy

Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Milwaukee, Wis.

Congratulations, from your friends at ACCE!

Accreditation Self-Analysis Survey for Local Chambers of Commerce

Please use the following checklist to determine if you're ready to apply for accreditation.

Governance

1. Does the chamber have an article of incorporation or a charter?

2. Is the chamber's mission statement clear and feasible?

3. Bylaws:

· Do they regulate the main areas of chamber management;

· Are they considered to be adequate for the laws of the state to the protection of both the chamber and its members; and

· Have they been shared with the board?

4. Organizational Structure: Is it clear and appropriate to the chamber's size and goals? Has the chamber developed an organization chart depicting flow of information and hierarchy?

5. Are there appropriate term limits and job descriptions in place for the board of directors?

6. Are board meetings held on a regular basis and are minutes kept on file?

7. Does a review process exist to evaluate the performance of officers and directors?

8. Are the proper committees in place for the chamber to meet goals?

Finance

1. Does the chamber meet generally accepted accounting practices? (GAAP)

2. Are the chamber's financial policies and procedures documented in a manual?

3. Is an annual operational budget in place (including costs for all programs, management and fundraising) and is it approved by the board?

4. Does the board of directors review and approve all financial statements?

5. Does the chamber maintain current financial statements?

6. Does the chamber maintain liability insurance or director and officer insurance?

7. Does the chamber meet the Accreditation standards for conducting an audit?

· Chambers with revenue below $500,000 must:

· Conduct an annual review by a certified financial firm

· Conduct an audit every three years

· Chambers with revenue of more than $500,000 must:

· Conduct an annual review by a certified financial firm

· Conduct an audit every other year

8. Does the chamber meet IRS and state filing requirements?

9. Does the chamber withhold and report taxes from employee paychecks to the IRS and state and local government?

Human Resources and Staff

1. Are there distinct roles and job descriptions set up for staff?

2. Does staff understand the chamber's mission and program of action?

3. Are personnel policies in place and current?

4. Does the chamber meet federal and state regulations regarding employees?

Government Affairs

1. Does the chamber have a systematic procedure in place to identify government affairs issues critical to the business community?

2. Does the chamber create a legislative agenda and share it with the membership?

3. Does the chamber communicate its positions on priority issues with elected officials?

4. Does the chamber actively share state/U.S. Chamber information with its members?

5. Has the chamber established a grassroots network?

Program Development

1. Does the chamber understand issues and needs important to all segments of the membership?

2. Does the chamber collect member feedback at least annually?

3. Does the chamber provide an annual report to its members?

4. Has the chamber developed a strategic plan or business plan for the current year?

5. Does the chamber understand the impending factors that will affect the chamber?

Technology

1. Does the chamber have functioning telephone, computer, and mailing systems?

2. Does the chamber keep its computer systems current and secure?

3. Does the chamber use anti-virus software?

4. Does the chamber have a membership database that can track membership information, dues, participation?

5. Does the chamber back up data regularly?

6. Has the chamber developed a data protection and privacy policy?

7. Does the chamber have a Web site that is updated regularly?

8. Is the chamber's Web site registered on Web site search engines?

Communications

1. Has the chamber developed a written communications and marketing plan with clear annual goals?

2. Does the chamber use diverse forms of media to promote the chamber?

3. Does the chamber contact members at least monthly?

4. Does the chamber's Web site communicate general information about the chamber?

5. Can the chamber communicate with members using mass-distribution e-mails?

6. Does the chamber comply with federal CAN-SPAM requirements?

7. Does the chamber issue press releases to local and regional media outlets?

Facilities

1. Does the chamber's facility project an appropriate business image, and is the facility accessible by the public?

2. Does the chambers facility support the chamber’s communications and technology capabilities?

3. Is the workplace kept neat, clean and free of potential safety hazards

4. Is the workplace inspected annually by a safety professional?

5. Does the chamber facility meet accepted OSHA regulations?

6. Is a crisis plan in place?

7. Are employees trained or educated about the crisis plan?

If you answered no to any of these questions, you are not ready to apply for accreditation.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce: Accreditation

Accreditation with the United States Chamber of Commerce is the only program of its kind that defines excellence in chamber planning and recognizes chambers for outstanding contributions toward positive change in their communities. The purpose of the U.S. Chamber's Accreditation Program is to facilitate continuing excellence in the chamber industry and to foster a pro-business environment across America.

Access the June 2018 Accreditation statistics here:

June 2018 Accredited Chambers (83.65 KB)

Who is Accredited?

There are over 850 chambers that have participated in the program since 1964. Currently, 204 chambers carry this distinction. With approximately 7,000 chambers in the United States, Accreditation with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is a prestigious honor that distinguishes the high quality, expertise, and strong leadership displayed by Accredited state and local chambers of commerce.

Why become Accredited?

By earning Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a chamber shows its dedication to:

Reviewing, improving, and promoting strong business practices

Recognizing leadership and outstanding contributions to the community

Supporting the principles of free enterprise and promoting pro-growth policies at federal, state, and local levels

Establishing best practices and staying in-step with industry changes

Are you ready to apply for Accreditation?

Questions? Contact:

Ali Ehrlich, IOM, CAE

Director of Operations

Political Affairs & Federation Relations

aehrlich@uschamber.com

202-463-5760

Ripon grad says Sheboygan County is 'gem' for fun and networking - Coastal Young Professionals Network

As a young professional, Austin Van Treeck says Coastal Young Professionals Network plays an important role within Sheboygan County.

“There are so many young professionals here and Coastal’s role within Sheboygan County is building a network and connecting them in order to share goals and ambitions as well as things to do in the community,” Van Treeck said.

And if anyone realizes the importance of building strong networking relationships, it is Van Treeck. He started making connections within the community shortly after graduation when he began as the workforce development specialist for the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation and his passion for building networking relationships continues.

He has built a network throughout the county that has benefited him both personally and professionally.

Van Treeck is currently a customer insights analyst for Johnsonville Sausage, where he has been a member for the past year and four months. Read more: Sheboygan Press

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Map is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to Jennifer Andreas and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Cedarburg Community Guide

'Discover Wisconsin' to feature Baraboo

Get ready for your closeup, Baraboo — you’re about to become a television star.

“Discover Wisconsin” is filming an episode about Baraboo. The cast and crew already have visited the Big Top Parade and Devil’s Lake Lavender, and will return to check out Baraboo Bluff Winery this week. Driftless Glen Distillery, downtown shops, local restaurants and rickshaw rides also will star in an episode that will premiere in April.

“You’ve got a special place,” said co-host Mariah Haberman, who served as one of the circus parade’s celebrity judges. “This area is one of my favorite places in Wisconsin.”

Broadcast in eight states, “Discover Wisconsin” promotes tourism. It’s filming an episode about Wisconsin Dells that will also air next spring.

The city of Baraboo, village of West Baraboo and Baraboo Area Chamber of Commerce shared the $40,000 cost of bringing the show to Baraboo. The episode will air multiple times next year, and also will be available online.

“We really are looking to move the needle,” Haberman said. “We take that very seriously.”

Bobbie Boettcher, executive director of the Chamber of Commerce, said the “Discover Wisconsin” episode will introduce a new audience to Baraboo. The circus city hasn’t been featured on the show for several years. “This is an opportunity we have to showcase ourselves in a different way,” she said. “You really have to have a broad portfolio.” Read more: Baraboo News-Republic

Fox Cities Chamber Celebrates Chamber of Commerce Month in September

Activities announced in communities throughout month to recognize statewide initiative

APPLETON, Wis. (August 31, 2018) – The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce is excited to celebrate September as Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Month as proclaimed by Governor Scott Walker. The Fox Cities Chamber will spend the entire month bringing attention to the services we provide to members and our community.

“The Fox Cities Chamber is very committed to helping organizations grow and prosper in the Fox Cities,” shared Kathi Seifert, Chairperson of the Fox Cities Chamber Board of Directors. “We are grateful to our members, investors and community, and we appreciate all of your contributions that make the Fox Cities a great place to live, work and play.”

Our organization plays a vital role in making sure the Fox Cities Region is a vibrant place to do business. The Fox Cities Chamber is an advocate for all our members, and Wisconsin Chamber Month gives us the opportunity to recognize the value they provide to the economic vitality of our community.

To celebrate Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Month, the Fox Cities Chamber will be hosting events and special programs open to members and non-members alike. Join us and get involved in an activity that meets your business needs.

The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce will highlight a number of events and programs during the month of September. Business Breakfast Bytes kicks off for the season providing small to medium-sized businesses with a complimentary monthly educational session monthly featuring topics relevant to the needs of businesses in our area. A new three-part workshop on attracting and retaining top talent is being offered with facilitators from Employment Resource Group. Bazaar After Dark, the Fox Cities Night Market, will make its return to downtown Menasha and Octoberfest and License to Cruise round out the month. A complete list of upcoming events and programs is available at foxcitieschamber.com.

The Fox Cities Chamber is partnering with Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce – the state chamber – and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to recognize all our efforts at a local, state and national level. Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Month is held throughout the entire month of September and will include the annual Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives Annual Conference in Wausau from Sept. 19-21.

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotations: (three events in one day):

"When you are totally exhausted but have to keep going, wash your face and hands and put on clean socks and a clean shirt. You will feel remarkably refreshed". --- H. Jackson Brown, Life's Little Instruction Book, Volume II

Badger Institute President to speak at Wausau Region Chamber’s 106th Annual Dinner

The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce will hold its 106th Annual Dinner on Thursday, September 13 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center in Rothschild. This event is open to both Chamber members and non-members.

The Annual Dinner is one of the Chamber’s signature events and the event will mark the start of a new program year for the organization.

“Looking ahead to 2018-2019, the Chamber, along with partner stakeholders, will lead the region forward as a new economic development plan is built and executed, while continuing to serve as the unique connecting piece for the community between business, education, government and non-profits.” said Dr. Dave Eckmann, President/CEO of the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce.

Mike Nichols, President of the Badger Institute in Madison, will be the keynote speaker at the event. Nichols will discuss the importance of free markets, the state of Wisconsin's labor force and more. Nichols previously served as a senior fellow at the institute and worked as a syndicated newspaper columnist and communications consultant.

Additionally, the event will include the introduction of the Chamber’s new Chairperson, Dr. Jeannie Worden ofNorthcentral Technical College, and members of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, and also recognizes the outgoing Chairperson, Cory Heckendorf of Wisconsin Kenworth.

“I’m extending an invitation to all members and non-members to join us as we celebrate our heritage as a vital community organization. We invite you to be a part of and hear about the future course of the Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce.” said Eckmann. “Together, we can and will make a difference and create opportunities.”

The Annual Dinner will include the announcement of the recipient of the Ruder Ware Innovator Award.

The Ruder Ware Innovator Award in Memory of G. Lane Ware was established in 2015 by Ruder Ware LLSC. G. Lane Ware was a distinguished attorney and consummate professional with a sincere drive to make the Wausau community a better place for life and for business. Ware realized that to succeed in business, you needed to innovate and differentiate, to remain relevant in a changing economy.

The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce will also honor an individual with an Ambassador of the Year Award.

The cost for the event is $35 for members and $50 for non-members and includes a meal. Reserved tables of eight are available for $280. If you are interested in attending, please register online.

Governor Scott Walker recently proclaimed September as Chamber of Commerce Month in Wisconsin. Walker made the proclamation at the request of the Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives, a division of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce. Read more: Wausau Region Chamber

Foxconn to create tech hub in downtown Eau Claire

Says it will create 'at least' 150 jobs there

Foxconn Technology Group today announced plans to establish a technology hub in Eau Claire, by acquiring an historic office building and creating innovation and test centers in that city’s downtown.

The company said the plans are “part of its initiative to spur innovation, attract talent and connect with supply chain partners,” and will “foster entrepreneurship.”

The new centers, to be named Foxconn Place Chippewa Valley, will create at least 150 high-tech jobs in Eau Claire, the company said. The employees will work with companies that will become part of Foxconn’s supply chain and contribute to the development of the AI 8K+5G ecosystem that Foxconn says it is building across the state.

Foxconn Place Chippewa Valley will include two properties. The company has entered into an agreement to acquire ‘The Grand,’ a six-story, 89-year-old building at 204 E. Grand Ave. in downtown Eau Claire. The building will be updated and converted into an incubator and laboratory for next-generation technological solutions.

Foxconn said it has also purchased over 15,000 square feet of co-working space at 200 Eau Claire St., in Haymarket Landing, which is a part of the Confluence Project a public-private partnership aimed at redeveloping the center of downtown Eau Claire and its riverfront. Foxconn will use this space as an innovation center that will be part of a talent and innovation network for the AI 8K+5G ecosystem that Foxconn is creating.

Foxconn said it plans to close on the Eau Claire properties later this year and have its operations there open in early 2019.

"We are excited to expand our Wisconn Valley footprint to the Chippewa Valley and West Central Wisconsin. Our goal in establishing Foxconn Place here is to help inspire innovative ideas, attract talent and catalyze cutting-edge solutions in this part of the state,” said Alan Yeung, Foxconn’s director of U.S. strategic initiatives and president of FEWI Development Corp. “Foxconn Place Chippewa Valley will play a key role in building a vibrant AI 8K+5G ecosystem in the U.S., with Wisconsin at the center of this vision.”

Yeung announced the Foxconn expansion to the Chippewa Valley at a news conference today with Gov. Scott Walker, Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. secretary and CEO Mark R. Hogan, Momentum West executive director Steve Jahn, and Eau Claire city manager Dale Peters.

“Once again, we’re seeing how Foxconn’s historic investment in Wisconsin is impacting every region of the state as the company makes yet another commitment to both create jobs and support entrepreneurs and innovators,” said Walker. “This is another example of the ‘Foxconn Bonus’ that goes well beyond the company’s $10 billion advanced manufacturing campus in Racine County.”

“Foxconn’s investment in the Chippewa Valley is great news for the region and the entire state as the company continues to demonstrate how its presence in Wisconsin will truly be transformational,” said Hogan. “From the day Foxconn announced it had chosen Wisconsin as the site for its campus, we have talked about the ripple effect that decision would have throughout the state. Today we are again experiencing that ripple effect here in west-central Wisconsin.”

The Eau Claire plans are the second announced by Foxconn for parts of Wisconsin outside of the southeastern region of the state. In addition to its plans for a $10 billion LCD screen manufacturing complex in Mount Pleasant, and its North American headquarters in downtown Milwaukee, the company in June announced plans to create an innovation center in Green Bay. Read more: Biz Times

South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory

The South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Barbara Wesener and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

South Suburban Chamber 2018 Community and Visitor Guide

Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce hosts MadRep

On Monday, Aug.13 the Cambridge Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a presentation by the Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP). The free event at the Amundson Community Center was attended by local government and business representatives.

MadREP President Paul Jadin and Gene Dalhoff , vice president of Talent and Education, provided an overview of the ways they could help spur economic development in Cambridge.

MadREP fills an important role in Wisconsin’s economic development landscape, serving as a partner and collaborator to the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and other state agencies, as well as economic development initiatives within counties, municipalities, chambers of commerce, and the private sector.

A few examples of its services include:

• Targeted business attraction via outreach to site selection professionals and in response to prospect inquiries

• Strategic development of target industries, including agriculture, information technology, life sciences, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing

• Delivery and analysis of economic data that affects the Madison region

• Mapping of industry supply chains to identify and address gaps, disconnects, and opportunities

• Support of physical innovative spaces and expansion of entrepreneurship resources across the region

• Technical assistance to entrepreneurs, including help with market valuation, market position, and value proposition.

Of particular interest to Cambridge attendees was MadREP’s work with site selection professionals who are charged with locating a site for a business. This part focuses primarily on ‘shovel ready’ industrial sites. There is also an opportunity for building owners to have empty buildings listed on the site selection map which identifies communities with space available for lease or sale. Read more: Cambridge News & Deerfield Independent

Greater Beloit Chamber: Influential Women in Business Luncheon

Registration Now Open!

The Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce and the Stateline Chamber are excited to introduce one of the most influential business events of the year. Join us for an inspiring event focused on women and what it means to become limitless! We encourage you to nominate a Woman in Business that deserves recognition through any of our 3 awards: NextGen, Executive Influencer, and Role Model.
Nominations must be made by September 12th, 2018.

For more information and to register for the luncheon, click here.
You must RSVP by no later than September 16th, 2018.
Sponsorship Opportunities & Benefits

If you are interested in becoming involved as a sponsor for this event contact our team by email today!

The Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce Community Guide is available at the Chamber of Commerce! Thank you to Bob Moses and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Prairie du Chien Community Guide

The Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin is Back! #MadeInWis

(Nominations are now closed, but you can still vote for your favorite company in September). From the WMC website:

We make some pretty cool things in Wisconsin: motorcycles in Milwaukee, military vehicles in Oshkosh, lawn mowers in Horicon, furniture in Arcadia and real, natural cheese in Plymouth, among so many others. Last year, Wisconsinites cast nearly 200,000 votes in the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin contest, run by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC). About 150 products were nominated by companies, workers and everyone in between in 2017, and there is no doubt that even more products will be submitted this year.

What do you think the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin is? In 2016, the inaugural year of the contest, Harley-Davidson’s Milwaukee 8 engine took home the grand prize, topping Johnsonville sausages and Fincantieri Marinette Marine’s Littoral Combat Ship, which is built for the U.S. Navy. During last year’s contest, a bracket-style tournament determined the top four! Oshkosh Corporation’s Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) brought home the grand prize. The JLTV beat out Mercury Marine’s Joystick Piloting System, the Ariens Sno-Thro (a Wisconsin necessity in winter) and Generac’s XC Generator.

This year, the contest will begin Monday, Aug. 20, and nominations will be accepted until Friday, Aug. 31. The first round of voting, which will determine the top 16 products that will participate in Manufacturing Madness, will be from Monday, Sept. 10 to Sunday, Sept. 16. The top 16 will be announced the following Monday, Sept. 17.

In the weeks that follow, two more rounds will take the competition from 16 products, to eight products, to the top four! A final round of voting will take place Tuesday Oct. 2 to noon on Tuesday, Oct. 9, and the winner will be announced at the State of Wisconsin Business & Industry Luncheon that same day. The top four products will be invited to display that product at the Luncheon.

After each round, the companies and products that move onto the next will be announced during a live broadcast via Facebook Live. So, if you want to stay up to date on all the details throughout the competition, make sure to like WMC by visiting our Facebook page. Products can be from anywhere in the manufacturing industry, as long as it is made here in Wisconsin. Additionally, the company does not have to be headquartered in the state, as long as it has a presence and the final product is assembled here.

WMC also encourages companies to nominate their own products. Then go out and earn votes. In the past, companies have encouraged employees, clients and those in their local community to cast votes. Some have appeared on local television or radio shows to brag about the product they make and last year’s winner, Oshkosh Corporation, purchased a digital billboard along the interstate promoting the JLTV as the Coolest Thing Made in Wisconsin.

These and many other marketing ideas can and should be implemented for a company to win. And do not forget the power of social media. Getting a post to “go viral” might push your product into the finals. To nominate a product, come back to madeinwis.com from Aug. 20-31.

LUM Wins GMCC Startup Pitch Contest, Earns Shot at Silicon Valley VCs

Live Undiscovered Music, a Madison, WI-based startup whose software helps users discover new music and share it with friends, captured first place in one of the state’s more closely watched pitch competitions Thursday.

The startup, which goes by LUM for short, won a contest known as “Pressure Chamber,” which is put on by the Great Madison Chamber of Commerce. The event is one of more than 50 being held as part of Forward Festival, a yearly entrepreneurship-focused conference in Wisconsin’s capital city.

By virtue of its win, LUM gets a spot on an all expenses paid trip to San Francisco in October to meet with Silicon Valley investment firms.

On Friday, LUM’s app for iOS devices became publicly available in the App Store, co-founder and CEO Max Fergus said.

The streaming service will feature only musical artists that LUM views as up and comers, and for now the company doesn’t plan to pay performers or songwriters who agree to let LUM to stream their songs. For artists, the upside of joining LUM is broader exposure, Fergus said. Read more: Xconomy

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

(reprinted from March 2, 2018) --- Town Square Publications, a subsidiary of Paddock Publications Inc., announced 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 More information: Town Square Publications

ARE YOU READY to take the next step for personal development in your chamber career? Have you considered pursuing a CCE? Look through the guidelines... get more information in a CCE Workshop webinar on Oct. 10, 2018

Here are some of the workshop materials for your reference from the CCE Workshop held during the ACCE Convention in Des Moines. Please read through this material and consider your future plans.

1. A PDF copy of the workshop presentation

2. Intent to Apply form

3. 2019 CCE application. Note: We recommend that you open and save a blank copy of the CCE application to your own computer, and then work from that as complete the application. If you work on the application on-line, changes may not be saved.

4. 2019 application guidelines

As we discussed during the presentation, we will be accepting applications through an online link that will be on our CCE website page beginning on September 1. More information on the CCE program can be found on this page as well. The application due date for the 2019 class is January 7, 2019.

FYI, we will be holding a CCE Workshop webinar on October 10, 2018 at 2 pm ET that will cover essentially the same points we reviewed in the convention workshop. It may be of interest to others who are interested in the process, so please feel free to pass along this registration link or use it to join us again if you would like.

I hope that you all will consider applying for your CCE when the time is right for you and your career. Please don't hesitate to contact me at smcguire@acce.org if you have any questions about the process.

All the best,

Susan McGuire

Please email Susan McGuire, ACCE Manager of Professional Development and Programs. More FAQ here: CCE FAQ

Job Openings in #Chamberworld – Special Report - Chamber of Commerce Daily News - Week of July 30th

President, Hudson Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau - Hudson, WI

The role of President is to ensure the effective operation of the Chamber. The position is responsible for the coordination of all organizational activities of the Chamber, including programs, membership, employment, training and supervision of staff, long range planning and total fiscal responsibilities. All planning for implementing Chamber objectives is directed in accordance with Chamber policies. Specific duties within the limits of the bylaws of the Chamber and policies established by the Board of Directors, the President shall, with appropriate delegation:

Prepare the annual budget for Board approval and supervise all expenditures within the framework of the budget.
Recruit new members to join the Chamber in order to meet budget goals, with Board member involvement and staff assistance.
Develop an Annual Plan of Action, subject to Board approval.
Hire, train, supervise, and, when necessary, discharge employees of the Chamber. Responsible for establishing compensation rates and benefits for all Chamber staff, subject to Board approval. Annual performance reviews for staff members will be conducted.
Initiate projects and programs to serve the concerns and needs of the membership. The President actively participates in the planning, organizing, and implementing of the eff orts by staff and volunteer members.
Actively represent the Chamber in civic and community affairs throughout local, regional, state, and national organizations. The Chamber should “have a seat at the table.”
Maintain frequent communication with the membership through personal contacts and the monthly newsletter.
Supervise the maintenance and purchase of appropriate equipment and facilities for the effective operation of the Chamber.
Complete any and all tasks as designated by the Board of Directors.
Keep, or cause to be kept, the official records of the Chamber, and any and all such records which are legally required; ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations of a non-profit organization doing business in Wisconsin. Read more: Special Report - Job Openings in #Chamberworld - Week of July 30th

Partnership/Membership Manager - VISIT Lake Geneva - Lake Geneva, WI

Membership/Partnership Manager

The Lake Geneva Chamber of Commerce, doing business as VISIT Lake Geneva, serves the broader interests of the economy of the Lake Geneva Area by supporting B2B relationships, maintaining, and expanding the area’s partnership network. VISIT Lake Geneva develops and implements partner programs beneficial to the area businesses and community-related segments to enhance area attraction, economic growth, and quality of life.

We are seeking a dynamic, ambitious driven business development professional to advocate the positive aspects of Chamber membership/partnership and secure new members, sponsors and manage the member experience and value. The successful candidate must be a willing and highly motivated prospector and possess exceptional business development and communication skills. Key factors for success in this high-visibility role include a competitive spirit, proactive thinking, ability to build long-term relationships plus the self-motivation and drive to meet established goals while managing time effectively.

Job Description:

Organize membership/partner activities, events and meetings.
Manage relationships with the partners/members of the Organization.
Develop new partner/membership prospects and show the value of partnership.
Update and distribute information to partners/members.
Manage the membership and prospect database system.
Oversee partnership customer service software system and trains partners on use.
Ensure partners are satisfied with partnership/membership and assist with any benefits they are entitled to.
Offer sponsorship and added value opportunities to partners/members.
Additional duties as required.

Top Five Daily Postings in the last month at Midwest Chamber of Commerce Daily News – click to go there or Google search “Chamber of Commerce Daily News – John Dussman”

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Naperville Area Chamber Of Commerce Board Of Direc... Mar 23, 2018	360
Valparaiso chamber receives national recognition; ... Aug 3, 2018	98
#lovemychamber - The Return on Investment on my C... Oct 29, 2013	86
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Hurricane Hunter pilot explains typical mission to... Aug 21, 2018	83

Last Month’s Stories

Greater Green Bay Chamber Named Finalist for National Award Contact: Niina Baum, marketing communications manager, 920-593-3423 or nbaum@greatergbc.org

New nonstop flights could bring investment and talent to Madison Madison Magazine

Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation awards five $2,500.00 scholarships: Kenosha Area News

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't - by Simon Sinek

Chamber partnership: ‘Real Resources’ session offered Wednesday in Neenah Appleton Post Crescent

From the ACCE weekly "from chambers, for chambers": Check out this Facebook post

Dozens of Wisconsin companies give millions in raises, bonuses, because of federal tax reform Watchdog.org

New Richmond Chamber Fun Fest June 12-15: Sponsorship Opportunities New Richmond Chamber

Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce introduces new administrative coordinator Sheboygan Press

Sioux Falls Development Foundation names Bob Mundt new CEO Argus-Leader

TIF money could fix Janesville's housing shortage, developers say Gazette Extra

Job Openings in #Chamberworld – Last Month - Hollywood (CA) Chamber of Commerce - President & CEO Position- Salary: $185,000+ Chamber of Commerce Daily News May 30. 2018

If you are a new customer and would like delivery of a chamber directory, community profile or map in February/March, 2019, please contact me at your earliest convenience. To request your chamber publication proposal, Contact Town Square Publications (it takes less than two minutes).

Best,

John Dussman