Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a GREAT day!
Message from Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Maisch
Hello and happy new year. Predicting outcomes of any legislative year is difficult, but 2020 will be especially interesting with the election of a new Senate President and a steady stream of incoming and ongoing federal investigations.
Taxes
First and foremost, the progressive income tax amendment is set for a vote on the November 2020 ballot. Along with many other groups and local chambers throughout the state, the Illinois Chamber will be fighting this tax every step of the way.
We will also be opposing the Cook County Assessor's so-called "data modernization" legislation that would radically change how property taxes are assessed and could result in large tax increases and possible exposure of proprietary information.
The Chamber will be introducing our own legislation to allow small and medium size businesses to create a tax-free fund to save for major capital expenditures. The program allows for future savings, similar to how 529 education savings accounts allow parents to save for college.
Employment Law
In employment law, we have serious concerns about federal changes regarding sick leave that could negatively impact our ability to continue to hold off additional mandatory leave on the state level.
Though we were not always supportive of the legalization of recreational cannabis, the Chamber came to the table to ensure we negotiated the strongest workplace protections in the nation into the final law. We expect some of those protections to come under attack this year and we will be vigilant in opposing any legislation that would weaken the rights of employers to maintain a drug-free workplace.
16th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky Award Winners Announced
Message from Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Maisch
Taxes
First and foremost, the progressive income tax amendment is set for a vote on the November 2020 ballot. Along with many other groups and local chambers throughout the state, the Illinois Chamber will be fighting this tax every step of the way.
We will also be opposing the Cook County Assessor's so-called "data modernization" legislation that would radically change how property taxes are assessed and could result in large tax increases and possible exposure of proprietary information.
The Chamber will be introducing our own legislation to allow small and medium size businesses to create a tax-free fund to save for major capital expenditures. The program allows for future savings, similar to how 529 education savings accounts allow parents to save for college.
Employment Law
In employment law, we have serious concerns about federal changes regarding sick leave that could negatively impact our ability to continue to hold off additional mandatory leave on the state level.
Though we were not always supportive of the legalization of recreational cannabis, the Chamber came to the table to ensure we negotiated the strongest workplace protections in the nation into the final law. We expect some of those protections to come under attack this year and we will be vigilant in opposing any legislation that would weaken the rights of employers to maintain a drug-free workplace.
We will continue to engage in discussions on sexual harassment and ethics legislation. While many of these laws start in the public sector, experience tells us that this kind of legislation typically trickles out to the private sector and we are prepared if and when new legislation is proposed that would change regulations for businesses.
Energy
We are expecting energy to be a major issue this session. The Chamber strongly believes that global climate policy should not be decided in Springfield, Illinois. We will continue to fight against legislation that includes unrealistic goals for carbon emissions that will drive up energy prices for homes and businesses. We will closely be monitoring new de-facto subsidies for nuclear power plants and any legislation that will affect prices for ratepayers.
Technology and Data Security
Our Technology Council expects another busy year fighting onerous biometric legislation that could impact businesses of all sizes from data companies to local florists. We are also watching for the resurgence of restrictive data privacy legislation similar to recent legislation passed in California that we were able to fend off last year.
Infrastructure
We will work with the governor's office, legislators and stakeholders throughout the implementation of the Rebuild Illinois capital bill. Besides the roll out, we will continue to be involved in discussions about public-private-partnerships and other innovative funding ideas to ensure Illinois doesn't go another decade without a capital program.
Health Care
In health care we will remain a leader in the fight against dangerous restrictions on best-in-class processes to sterilize medical equipment and materials, such as surgical kits, that could negatively impact the quality of the health care for our employers and employees. There are also several insurance mandates that could make health care more expensive for employers and limit employees' ability to receive benefits.
You can stay updated on all of these issues and more by staying in touch with the Chamber through our councils, correspondence and staff. On that note, I am pleased to announce that the Chamber has hired former Legal Counsel and Floor Director of the Illinois Senate Republicans Clark Kaericher as our new Vice President of Legislative Affairs.
Clark will be running the Chamber's day-to-day legislative agenda while serving as the executive director of both the Technology and Innovation and Infrastructure Councils. Prior to the Illinois Senate, Clark served as the chief administrative officer at the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology under Governor Rauner and as an administrative services manager at the Illinois Department of Transportation. I think his legal, legislative, tech and transportation background make him a perfect fit with us here.
We encourage you to stay tuned by signing up for our Government Affairs Report that comes out every Friday during session by emailing: ddurham@ilchamber.org and stay in touch by engaging with Clark and the rest of our staff on any issues of interest. I also hope you will consider taking our member survey to give us some more insight into how we can better serve you. Finally, you can read more about the Chamber and our members in this quarter's Business Leader Magazine.
Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to working with you all for stronger business and a stronger Illinois in 2020.
Energy
We are expecting energy to be a major issue this session. The Chamber strongly believes that global climate policy should not be decided in Springfield, Illinois. We will continue to fight against legislation that includes unrealistic goals for carbon emissions that will drive up energy prices for homes and businesses. We will closely be monitoring new de-facto subsidies for nuclear power plants and any legislation that will affect prices for ratepayers.
Technology and Data Security
Our Technology Council expects another busy year fighting onerous biometric legislation that could impact businesses of all sizes from data companies to local florists. We are also watching for the resurgence of restrictive data privacy legislation similar to recent legislation passed in California that we were able to fend off last year.
Infrastructure
We will work with the governor's office, legislators and stakeholders throughout the implementation of the Rebuild Illinois capital bill. Besides the roll out, we will continue to be involved in discussions about public-private-partnerships and other innovative funding ideas to ensure Illinois doesn't go another decade without a capital program.
Health Care
In health care we will remain a leader in the fight against dangerous restrictions on best-in-class processes to sterilize medical equipment and materials, such as surgical kits, that could negatively impact the quality of the health care for our employers and employees. There are also several insurance mandates that could make health care more expensive for employers and limit employees' ability to receive benefits.
You can stay updated on all of these issues and more by staying in touch with the Chamber through our councils, correspondence and staff. On that note, I am pleased to announce that the Chamber has hired former Legal Counsel and Floor Director of the Illinois Senate Republicans Clark Kaericher as our new Vice President of Legislative Affairs.
Clark will be running the Chamber's day-to-day legislative agenda while serving as the executive director of both the Technology and Innovation and Infrastructure Councils. Prior to the Illinois Senate, Clark served as the chief administrative officer at the Illinois Department of Innovation and Technology under Governor Rauner and as an administrative services manager at the Illinois Department of Transportation. I think his legal, legislative, tech and transportation background make him a perfect fit with us here.
We encourage you to stay tuned by signing up for our Government Affairs Report that comes out every Friday during session by emailing: ddurham@ilchamber.org and stay in touch by engaging with Clark and the rest of our staff on any issues of interest. I also hope you will consider taking our member survey to give us some more insight into how we can better serve you. Finally, you can read more about the Chamber and our members in this quarter's Business Leader Magazine.
Thank you for your continued support, and I look forward to working with you all for stronger business and a stronger Illinois in 2020.
Sincerely,
Todd Maisch
President and CEO
Illinois Chamber of Commerce 16th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky Award Winners Announced
The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, the Kentucky Society for
Human Resource Management (KYSHRM) and ClearPath
Mutual Insurance Company announce the 100 companies (in
alphabetical order) that made the 16th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky
list.
The winner rankings will be announced at an awards dinner Thursday,
April 23, 2020, at Heritage Hall in the Lexington Convention Center.
Winners from across the state have been selected in three categories:
small companies of 15-149 employees, medium companies of 150-499 employees and
large companies consisting of more than 500 employees (categories based on
number of U.S. employees, only Kentucky employees surveyed). The selection
process, managed by Best Companies Group, is based on an assessment of the
company’s employee policies and procedures and the results of an internal
employee survey.
The competition is a multi-year initiative designed to motivate
companies in the Commonwealth to focus, measure and move their workplace
environments toward excellence. Numerous studies show a strong correlation
between profitability and creating a good place to work.
As the state’s premier business advocate, the Kentucky Chamber
of Commerce is a recognized and respected voice at the state Capitol. Today,
the Kentucky Chamber represents the interests of member businesses throughout
Kentucky – from family-owned shops to Fortune 500 companies.
Kentucky SHRM consists of 13 local chapters that provide ongoing
education and leadership opportunities for over 2,700 human resource
professionals throughout the Commonwealth.
For more details about Best Places to Work in Kentucky,
visit www.bestplacestoworkky.com or to learn
about sponsor and exhibitor opportunities click here.
Kernersville Chamber of Commerce Community Guide
The Kernersville Chamber of Commerce Community Guide is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Chris Comer and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
Kosciusko Chamber Hires New Member Relations Manager
Daviess County Chamber Director Samantha Bobbitt leaving her position
The Daviess County Chamber of Commerce will be searching for a new director in 2020. Samantha Bobbitt announced to the board and community members that she will be resigning at the start of the year to take a job with the Washington Housing Authority. Bobbitt has served as director for nearly nine years. Bobbitt has agreed to serve on the search committee and would like to stay active with the board to make the transition as smooth as possible. She will step down at the end of the month. WAMW 107.9
Welcome Again Town Square Chamber Partner: Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce in Ridgeland, MS
We love being part of your business strategy!
Innocor expanding in Baldwyn, creating 90 jobs
Innocor will increase production at its two facilities in Baldwyn. The company creates polyurethane foam.
The expansion marks a $4.1 million corporate investment and will create 90 jobs.
“Mississippi businesses, like Innocor, are at the core of our state’s growing economy,” Gov. Tate Reeves said. “We are proud to work with and support businesses like theirs as they expand and add new jobs to Mississippi’s workforce. This expansion creates opportunities for those 90 people as well as their families to achieve more and thrive.”
“We are very excited for the opportunity to expand our business in Baldwyn. This would not be possible without the Mississippi Development Authority’s commitment to grow our existing industries in the state,” said Innocor General Manager Kevin Lindsey. “On behalf of Innocor, we sincerely appreciate the Mississippi Development Authority, Community Development Foundation, Lee County and the city of Baldwyn for all their support.”
The Mississippi Development Authority is providing assistance for building and infrastructure improvements and equipment installation. Lee County and the city of Baldwyn will provide property tax exemptions.
“MDA is pleased to assist Innocor with its expansion in Lee County, as 90 more individuals in Northeast Mississippi will have the opportunity to have good, steady jobs to provide for their families and give back to the community,” said MDA Deputy Director Mike McGrevey. “The teamwork of MDA, the Community Development Foundation, Lee County and the city of Baldwyn was instrumental in bringing these new jobs to our state.”
Innocor plans to complete the expansion by mid-February. Read more: WJTV.com
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber Of Commerce Is Excited To Announce The Rebrand Of Their Young Professionals Group
Fredericksburg – The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce announced Friday, January 10th, 2020 that the Next Generation of Business Leader’s (NextGen), the organization’s young professionals group has officially changed its name to The Chamber’s Network of Young Professionals (CNYP).
“I love the new CNYP brand. It comes at the perfect time when our group is growing and evolving its programming. Having a new image is a great way to showcase that we are more than just another networking group. It’s 2020 and our vision for CNYP is clearer than ever. CNYP is committed to developing young leaders professionally and giving back to our community. We have a lot of new events planned this year to switch things up and reach a wider audience.” –Grace Draper, Chair of CNYP Advisory Committee
CNYP strives to serve as the catalyst for young professionals to make measurable and significant growth in both their personal and professional lives as well as in our community.
How CNYP Connects
Civic Engagement: When you invest in our community, it pays off. CNYP drives volunteerism to enhance civic engagement for our region’s young professionals. Quarterly volunteer events will be available.
Professional Development: CNYP, helps members cultivate professional skills essential for strong leadership with quarterly programs such as Mid-Week Motivation Luncheons.
Networking: Build your network and community with other ambitious young professionals. With many networking opportunities throughout the year, the opportunity to foster new relationships is at your fingertips. CNYP offers meaningful connections with young leaders across many industries.
How Can I Join CNYP?
Chamber Members or employees of Chamber Members between the ages of 21 and 40 have the benefit to join the group for FREE.
If you are interested in joining but not employed by a Chamber Member, the annual fee is $50.
Questions? Interested?
Contact Kyle Pfohl, Chamber’s Member Services Coordinator and CNYP Program Lead at kpfohl@fxbgchamber.org and 540-373-9400.
Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce announces new CEO
Contact Kyle Pfohl, Chamber’s Member Services Coordinator and CNYP Program Lead at kpfohl@fxbgchamber.org and 540-373-9400.
Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce announces new CEO
- Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce and welcome Ashley DeMuth as the new CEO of the Chamber.
DeMuth will be responsible for creating value-added member programming, recruiting new members, and managing day to day activities to carry out the Chamber’s mission; to strengthen member businesses and stimulate regional prosperity.
Ashley comes to the Chamber with a knowledge of non-profits having served as Executive Director of United Way and Center Director for the Boys and Girls Club. Through these roles, Ashley had the opportunity to see the community from different facets while developing relationships with local business leaders and program partners. Ashley developed a strong devotion for the nonprofit sector after graduating from the University of Wisconsin – Stout with her B.S. in Vocational Rehabilitation. Her fiscal, program, and operations management experiences make her a great fit for this role. It is Ashley’s passion to build a strong community that we all deserve.
“Ashley is an excellent addition to the team and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role. Her enthusiasm is contagious and we are thrilled she explored our opportunity and accepted our offer,” shared Carmen Trimble, 2020 president-elect.
“Ashley is an excellent addition to the team and brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this role. Her enthusiasm is contagious and we are thrilled she explored our opportunity and accepted our offer,” shared Carmen Trimble, 2020 president-elect.
Ashley will help the Chamber usher in the new decade. Under her leadership, we expect to see new programming and offerings to our members. Outside of work, Ashley enjoys bowling, watching sporting events, listening to live music and traveling with her husband and two children. Ashley’s family calls Colfax home and operates a small hobby farm.
About the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce:
The Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization located on Main Street in Menomonie. Our mission is to strengthen member businesses and stimulate regional prosperity. We aim to be the catalyst organization that ensures that the Greater Menomonie Area is a vibrant place to do business, work and live. Read more: WEAU.com
The Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization located on Main Street in Menomonie. Our mission is to strengthen member businesses and stimulate regional prosperity. We aim to be the catalyst organization that ensures that the Greater Menomonie Area is a vibrant place to do business, work and live. Read more: WEAU.com
Clarkston Area Chamber Women Business Leader of the Year
Woman Business Leader of the Year nominations due Friday, February 7th. Please email your nominations to Gina@clarkston.org in 300 words or less
This award is to recognize a woman who has shaped the success of her organization/business and demonstrated leadership, professional achievement, and contributed not only to her workplace, but also her community. The essence of this award is to discover and reward exceptional women for their leadership, mentoring skills, and/or ideas that stand out from their colleagues.
To view the full nomination form, click HERE.
Women In Business is Thursday, February 27th from 10:30-1:30 at Oakhurst Golf & Country Club.
Purchase tickets HERE!
#FamousChamber Of Commerce Quotations: (Be happy!)
“Life is simple. Everything happens for you, not to you. Everything happens at exactly the right moment, neither too soon nor too late.” Byron Katie
Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.
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