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Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day!
ADP: the Hattiesburg Way Forward Re-Opening Best Practices |
Through a collaborative effort between our business community and healthcare providers we've compiled a list of suggestions and recommendations to guide private sector businesses looking to reopen.
This guide contains best practices on:
‣ Protecting employees and customers
‣ Cleaning, disinfecting, hygiene and sanitization
‣ Communicating with staff and the public
‣ Personal protective equipment
‣ Paid leave guidelines in federal law
‣ Industry-specific COVID-19 resources
Special thanks to the City of Hattiesburg and the private sector leadership of #TheHattiesburgWay Community Working Group.
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Lake County Chamber: “YOUTH & THE CORONAVIRUS: GETTING THE POINT ACROSS”
“Youth & the Coronavirus: Getting the Point Across,” a virtual documentary produced on ZOOM, takes pause to give voice to our youth, addressing their thoughts, questions and concerns as to how COVID-19 has or will change their summer, their education and their lives leaving memories of a period of time that will not soon be forgotten.
“With the help of industry professionals featured within the program to answer youth questions, we hope that the voices of a few youth will address the concerns of many,” says Shaunese Teamer, Executive Director of the Lake County Chamber and co-producer of this virtual special.
“As an offshoot of our virtual series, ‘COVID-19: Conversations from the Frontline,’ this program features youth ages 5-19 who joined us on ZOOM to ask their question. Our hope is that parents will watch this virtual program with the youth in their lives and have a valuable conversation about community and our ability to remain resilient throughout history against adversities that we were able to overcome,” Teamer adds.
Industry professionals featured in this program include:
Dr. Gerson A. Teran, M.D. Department Head of Transitional Medicine Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center
James W. Sherman, MD, FACP Executive Vice President, Chief Medical Officer Horizon Therapeutics
Adriane Johnson Chairman Illinois Association of Park Districts
Jeff Mavros Director of Admissions Illinois State University
Jefferson McMillan-Wilhoit Director, Health Informatics and Technology Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center Caitlin Kepple Communications Manager Six Flags Great America
Gloria Bond Clunie Award-Winning Playwright Director and Educator Jay Lerner Executive Director Waukegan Park District
Dwayne Springs High School Coach/Mentor
Chris Schmidt Special Education Teacher
“Youth & the Coronavirus: Getting the Point Across,” is co-produced by Shaunese Teamer and Kravon Teamer – a true mother and son quarantine production. This virtual documentary will be released with availability to viewers at www.lakecountychamber.com.
The Lake County Chamber of Commerce has been serving businesses in Lake County since 1915. Our mission is to identify and serve the diverse needs of Lake County businesses, small and large, increasing prosperity by encouraging the growth of existing businesses and fostering new enterprises through the power of B2B and B2C connections. For more information about the Chamber, visit our website at www.lakecountychamber.com; email us at info@lakecountychamber.com; or call 847.249.3800.
Champaign County Chamber: University of Illinois Pandemic Stress Indicator Expert Service
· The University of Illinois System released the results from their Pandemic Stress Indicator Expert Survey.
· Reuters reports that the Small Business Administration provided aid to some small businesses twice due to a technical issue.
· Recent protests are likely to lead to an increase in COVID-19 according to CUPHD Director Julie Pryde.
· The University of Illinois announces measures to help ease the financial impact of COVID-19.
· You can take a look at Champaign County’s most recent COVID-19 data here.
· The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) will be hosting free weekly webinars open to long-term care and congregate residential settings.
If you are unable to register, please email Michael.moore@illinois.gov for assistance. IDPH will also make recordings of the webinars available online. Gov. Evers Announces $75 Million We're All In Grant Program and Initiative to Spur Recovery (via Hartford Chamber)
Wisconsin's Economic Recovery, Promote Safe Business Practices MADISON—Gov. Tony Evers today announced $75 million in assistance for small businesses as part of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation’s We’re All In initiative, a comprehensive effort to celebrate and help Wisconsin’s small businesses get back on their feet and support best practices to keep businesses, consumers, employees and communities safe....
Read Full Press Release
#CedarburgStrong: WEDC Announces Grant Opportunity for Small Businesses
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Members of our community are asked to come together by participating in our Ribbon Tying Event that Ties Our Community Together! We are all in this together and it is on us to get our local economy back and thriving. Our goal is to draw awareness to our businesses and show unity as we move forward.
The toolkit includes: Poster for your door; red ribbon; member decal; directions and a friendly smile at the Chamber Office.
Plan to pick up your toolkit on Thursday anytime from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Chamber office (34 W Jackson Street, Suite 3)
34 W Jackson Street | 269.962.4076 | kbeer@battlecreek.org
Midland Business Alliance (MBA): Resilience Reset: It's Your Turn to Thrive
We have seen our community pull together mightily to get us through both the COVID-19 crisis, and now the flood disaster. But our recovery will require time, patience, sustained efforts, and resiliency so that we can fully bounce back to our pre-crisis state.
In November 2019, the MBA contracted with nationally known speaker and author Anne Grady to bring her message of resiliency to Midland. Now more than ever, we need her message, and tools in our toolbox to build our resiliency. Anne has agreed to deliver a short, virtual event on June 11th, open to our members at no charge, and then follow this up later in the year with her full workshop.
Anne’s abbreviated message on June 11th will overview essential, immediate tools for resiliency, and provide a sneak-peek at the extended program to be held later this year.
The ability to successfully navigate change, rise above adversity, and triumph in our lives boils down to one word: RESILIENCE. When faced with challenge, ambiguity, and adversity, those who practice resilience refuse to let fear hold them back, and they break through the barriers keeping them stuck to not only survive difficult times, but thrive as a result. Learn how to cultivate courage, improve resilience, and triumph over adversity, obstacles, and setbacks.
Register now
Midland Business Alliance (MBA): Resilience Reset: It's Your Turn to Thrive
We have seen our community pull together mightily to get us through both the COVID-19 crisis, and now the flood disaster. But our recovery will require time, patience, sustained efforts, and resiliency so that we can fully bounce back to our pre-crisis state.
In November 2019, the MBA contracted with nationally known speaker and author Anne Grady to bring her message of resiliency to Midland. Now more than ever, we need her message, and tools in our toolbox to build our resiliency. Anne has agreed to deliver a short, virtual event on June 11th, open to our members at no charge, and then follow this up later in the year with her full workshop.
Anne’s abbreviated message on June 11th will overview essential, immediate tools for resiliency, and provide a sneak-peek at the extended program to be held later this year.
The ability to successfully navigate change, rise above adversity, and triumph in our lives boils down to one word: RESILIENCE. When faced with challenge, ambiguity, and adversity, those who practice resilience refuse to let fear hold them back, and they break through the barriers keeping them stuck to not only survive difficult times, but thrive as a result. Learn how to cultivate courage, improve resilience, and triumph over adversity, obstacles, and setbacks.
Register now
#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: Be happy
Choosing to be positive and having a grateful attitude is going to determine how you're going to live your life. - Joel Osteen
Kernersville Chamber: Chamber Spotlight Interviews
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Chamber Spotlight Interviews
Hosted by Andrew Oliver
Des Plaines Chamber: “How to Read Body Language in any Virtual Situation” Seminar
Tuesday, June 2nd, NOON – 1:30 p.m.
Join us for this meeting and learn the best practices and tips on video conferences and how to avoid weird virtual moments.
Studies show that every Face and Body Expression is hardwired into our DNA, they are part of our Paleo-Circuit, survival instinct and communication. Studies show that kids born blind express, not only the same emotions as sighted kids, but they also show them the same way sighted kids do as well. This means that even if you think others cannot pick up your cues, they do. Can you afford to do it wrong? Absolutely NOT!
Presented by Susan Ibitz, Human Behavior Lab
Register online at www.dpchamber.com
Marion Chamber: Join us at our monthly luncheon!
Featuring Allison Hasler with the City of Marion
The Marion Chamber of Commerce Monthly Membership Virtual Luncheon will be held on Tuesday, June 9th via ZOOM! Program starts at 12, with networking before and after the event. Please register below to receive an email with your ZOOM login information.
This month's lunch presentation is Allison Hasler. Allison is the new Community Programs Director for the City of Marion and will share 3 key city initiatives: grant administration, TIF District management and community health initiatives. In all these initiatives, Allison feels it imperative to foster a collaborative partnership between the City of Marion residents and business partners to identify needs and address gaps in the community. Chamber involvement plays an important role in this partnerships.
We encourage attendees to enjoy carry out/delivery from one of our member restaurants. Check out a listing at: http://marion.chamberdelivery.com/
IACCE Event: Setting the Stage for Success Part 1 Governance
Description:
Are you a chamber executive with 2 or fewer years of experience? Do you run a small chamber and want to be ready for your next steps? Or do you need a bit of a refresher? If so, join us for a 3-part webinar on running your chamber. We'll go over the main knowledge areas needed to be a success in leading your chamber.
Event Date:
6/9/2020
Event Time:
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Central -
Location: Via webinar, IL
Event Registration: Register for this Event
Greg Garrett and Lindsay Pennington of Garrett Realty Partners join us in this episode to talk about how the Real Estate world is pivoting to succeed and to provide an essential service in the current crisis.
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Prince William Chamber Announces 2020 Education Summit
Each of the 3 Regional Superintendents to Share Their Vision For 2020-2021 School Year And Beyond
Each year, the Prince William Chamber of Commerce supports higher education at their annual Education & Innovation Summit planned by their Education & Innovation Committee. The date is Tuesday, June 9th, 2020 from 2:00-3:30pm. The event will be conducted virtually using Zoom and mobile call-in options; and for the first time is FREE and open to the public -- thanks to our Sponsors! Registration is required to receive login information for the event.
The program features a panel of our three Superintendents representing all school districts, Dr. Steven L. Walts, Superintendents, Prince William County Public Schools, Dr. Kevin Newman, Superintendents, City of Manassas Public Schools, Dr. Bruce McDade, Superintendents, City of Manassas Park Public Schools, sharing their vision and plans for the future of education.
There will also be award presentations to four $2,500 academic scholarships to high school seniors who have demonstrated both academic success and a commitment to volunteer service in our community. Lockheed Martin, Amazon Web Services and Micron Technology (on behalf of SPARK and BELL Foundations) are the Student Scholarship sponsors. It is due to the generosity of companies like these, and the Prince William Chamber’s commitment to supporting higher education that make a difference for students to pursue their dreams. You can demonstrate your support by registering to attend this special event!
Scholarships Winners:
1. Emma Carroll – Osbourn Park HS – Sponsor: Amazon Web Services
2. Cameron McQuillan – Battlefield HS – Sponsor: Micron Technology
3. Abigail Seputro – Osbourn HS – Sponsor: Micron Technology Foundation
4. Lynnea Gedney – Charles J. Colgan HS – Lockheed Martin
Visit the Chamber’s website: www.pwchamber.org and click on the scrolling banner for the Education & Innovation Summit.
Questions or for more information, contact Suzanne Lewis: slewis@pwchamber.org // 571-765-7753.
Carbondale Chamber: Economic Impact of Covid 19 on Southern Illinois
Applied Research Consultants was contracted by Lynn Andersen Lindberg, Deborah Barnett, and Tom Hovatter of the Southern Illinois University Carbondale (SIU) Research Park, to collect information about the economic impact of COVID-19 on Southern Illinois businesses. Previous reports in Illinois were primarily focused on Chicago and its surrounding areas. Thus, the Client requested a more accurate depiction of the rural regions such as Southern Illinois.
Thank you to all survey respondents, and thank you, SIU Research Park.
Jasper Chamber: Indiana Small Business Grant
The State of Indiana is launching a small business grant program for Indiana small businesses this week (applications open on June 3rd). https://backontrack.in.gov/2377.htm is the website where all the requirements are listed.
The Indiana Small Business Development Center will be assisting with small business owners who need help gathering essential data (Profit/Loss...etc.) if they need this type of assistance in order to apply. Other than that, we will be referring people to the website to apply. The intent of this program is to provide assistance due to COVID-19 impact on revenue for smaller businesses who were
ineligible or unable to access SBA loans (PPP or EIDL) programs.
If the business has already taken PPP, EIDL or Community Development Block Grant funding, they will not be eligible for this new state grant.
Grants are up to $10,000 and the business will have to provide similar financial documents for the PPP, EIDL or other programs. Tax returns, P&L before COVID and after COVID showing revenue impact. Also, they will need to show documentation for the actual expenses during the COVID period (March 1 - Today).
The Small Business Restart Fund – which has $30 million to distribute – is for companies with under 50 employees that also meet certain revenue criteria and were not awarded specific federal or community loans during the pandemic. Applications will be accepted starting tomorrow, June 3.
Additionally, the $10 million Economic Activity Stabilization & Enhancement (EASE) program has been launched to support technology and operational advancements in the state's manufacturing industry.
Hancock, OS, JC Chamber Collaboration: One Coast 2020 winners announced, including community leaders and Top 10 under 40
Winners of the 2020 One Coast Awards were announced Friday by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Hancock Chamber of Commerce, Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.
The One Coast Awards are the rebranding of the former Roland Weeks Hall of Fame, The Sun Herald Top 10 Under 40 and Community Leader Awards and recognize outstanding business and community leaders across South Mississippi.
COMMUNITY LEADER WINNERS
Anthony Wilson, Mississippi Power
Brian Fulton, Jackson County Board of Supervisors
Cindy Lamb, Pickering Firm
Geneva Dummer, The Meeting Place
Janie O’Keefe, Disability Connection
Jenny Levens, City of Long Beach
John Kemp, U.S. Army Retired
Lori West, Humane Society of South Mississippi
Mayor Mario King, City of Moss Point
Regan Kane, John McDonald Realty
Secretary Adams discusses voting in the upcoming election on Southeast Kentucky Chamber call
SAUK VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
One Southern Indiana (1si): Applications for “Jeffersonville Sustains” Forgivable Loan Program Available to Assist Local Businesses with Recovery
On May 8, 2020, officials from the City of Jeffersonville, in partnership with One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, Ind., established a forgivable loan fund of up to $250,000. Called “Jeffersonville Sustains,” the program will provide access to operating capital for specific small businesses within the City of Jeffersonville that have been negatively impacted by the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. Qualified business must be locally owned and operated restaurants, including bars, entertainment venues, boutiques, salons and retail shops not part of a national chain or franchise.
City Council President Matt Owen provided the vision and shared his support for the program. “A significant portion of the City’s tax revenues are derived from property tax and local income tax. If local, small businesses are unable to remain operational and pay wages to their employees, the City loses those receipts,” he said. “A lot has gone into building our small business community in Jeffersonville. This program is set up to protect that investment.”
The request process opens today, May 12th, and applications will be accepted through Monday, May 18th, at 5 p.m. You may access the application and other relevant information by visiting the 1si Covid-19 Response page at www.1si.org/covid-19 or later this week, at the 1si Reset website at www.1si.org/soin-reset. You may also obtain a hard copy of the application with instructions for submission at the main office of SoIN Tourism, located at 315 Southern Indiana Avenue, Jeffersonville, Ind. A second application process will open on May 19th, if funds are not exhausted.
According to loan organizers, the purpose of the zero percent forgivable loan is to keep small businesses viable through the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery. Loan amounts up to $5,000 will be considered and are forgivable after initial repayment terms are met. The term of the loan repayment is fifteen (15) months, with first payment due on 10/1/2020.
As Vice President of the City Council, Scottie Maples stated, “It is in the best interest of the City to engage in every effort possible to breath life into the local, small business community. This program will do that for several of our unique businesses that have nowhere else to turn.”
Funds will be awarded based on demonstrated need and may only be used to assist with payroll expenses, rent and utilities. The appointed loan committee will review applications and required documentation and recipients will be notified by Friday, May 22nd at 5 p.m.
President and CEO of 1si Wendy Dant Chesser commented, “Just as all citizens and leaders of Southern Indiana came together to fight this health crisis, we are now watching as that same compassion is addressing the economic effects. Very few businesses – regardless of size – can survive two months with limited or no income. The Jeffersonville Sustains program will help the City’s public-facing establishments shore up their finances so they can overcome the economic effects of the pandemic.”
Exclusive Benefit to Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce Members
Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce members are eligible for a special program with the Chamber's small business consortium with our local Employee Assistance Program HelpNet.
This member benefit is for local businesses with 150 or fewer employees. Contact HelpNet to learn more.
In the interim please take a look at the following helpful recordings/articles for you and your employees:
Working Parents
Safe Actions for Return to Work
Eldercare: How to Support those in isolation & stay connected
Lansing Regional Chamber: RELAUNCH Greater Lansing Task Force Guide Offers Blueprint for Restarting Business Operations Post Covid-19
A task force consisting of prominent and trusted leaders from multiple industry sectors in Greater Lansing has developed a comprehensive resource guide that will serve as a blueprint for employers as they restart their businesses in the next phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The RELAUNCH Greater Lansing: Economic Rehabilitation Task Force created the resource guide to assist organizations as they reopen, while ensuring safety for employees and customers.
“There has been an overwhelming amount of information during COVID-19 that seems to change daily, sometimes even hourly,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This resource guide was developed under the guidance of healthcare professionals, and contains the latest information and best practices so employers can have confidence the proper health protocols are in place to allow for a safe and successful restart of operations and to build economic resiliency.”
“Our goal was to closely align relaunch efforts in the region with the guidelines established by public health officials in the state of Michigan and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” said Matt Resch, Owner, Resch Strategies. “We have relied heavily on the guidance of healthcare professionals to determine the most effective path forward and return of a robust, thriving regional economy.”
The resource guide contains relevant information on best practices workplaces should follow, with different levels of importance depending on the industry. It also addresses essential workplace COVID-19 procedures.
“The proper implementation of these best practices will mitigate risk in the workplace and allow for a safe and sustained return to work,” said Mike Zamiara, President, Niowave. “If workplaces follow established guidelines, we are confident they will quickly build confidence and trust with employees, customers and the community as they reopen their business and our regional economy.
Organizations can view the resource guide on the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce website: www.lansingchamber.org/relaunch.
Members of the RELAUNCH Greater Lansing Task Force include:
Terrance Augustine, Eaton County Board of Commissioners
Farhan Bhatti, M.D., Care Free Medical
Bryan Crenshaw, Ingham County Board of Commissioners
Tim Daman, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
Jeff Deason, Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce
Tico Duckett, Duckett Brothers Distributing
Brent Forsberg, T.A. Forsberg
Peter Graham, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Physicians Health Plan
Kevin Irwin, TechSmith
Janet Lillie, Michigan State University
Jason Mellema, Ingham Intermediate School District
Bob Mooney, Meijer
Julie Pingston, Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau
Matt Resch, Resch Strategies
Carrie Rosingana, Capital Area Michigan Works!
Andy Schor, Mayor, City of Lansing
Patricia Scott, Foster Swift
Bob Trezise, Lansing Economic Area Partnership
Linda Vail, Ingham County Health Department
Kam Washburn, Clinton County Board of Commissioners
Mike Zamiara, Niowave
What does the return to retail look like in Wisconsin Rapids? It's not like it was before the coronavirus
Retail stores are starting to reopen, but shopping now looks different, as owners are doing what they can to make sure their guests are safe and feel comfortable.
Kate Parmeter owns Sweet Tea Clothing Co. in Wisconsin Rapids and Plover, where social distancing is encouraged and only five customers can shop inside at once. People also can also shop online, with the option of free shipping or curbside pickup. Not everyone is comfortable with coming inside, and employees are happy to run items out to customers.
Parmeter said people have been patient and understanding since the store reopened.
“Everyone seems happy just to be able to get out of the house and shop,” she said.
Parmeter's main concern is making her customers feel comfortable. She said she feels stressed when she’s out buying groceries, and she doesn’t want shoppers to feel anxious in her store.
“We’ve always had a laid-back atmosphere, and I hope customers continue to feel relaxed when they’re here,” Parmeter said.
Since the store reopened, Parmeter said it’s been busy but manageable. The Plover store has been a little slower, because it gets a lot of traffic from people driving by, but business is picking up each day as more businesses reopen, she said.
“It’s wonderful how supportive the community has been,” Parmeter said.
Small, stand-alone retail stores and shops in strip malls were allowed to reopen May 11 with precautions in place for shoppers, like having extra sanitizer on hand and limiting stores to five customers at a time. Two days later, the Wisconsin Supreme Court lifted Gov. Tony Evers' safer-at-home order, allowing all businesses to reopen without limits on the number of people allowed inside.
Angel Whitehead, the president of the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, said business owners are ready to open, but they want to reopen safely for both staff and customers. When the state lifted almost all restrictions, many business owners in the Wisconsin Rapids area called the chamber for clarification.
Whitehead said many owners chose to remain closed an extra day or two, to make sure they had protocols in place for their employees.
"We commend businesses for taking precautions as they open," Whitehead said. "We are very excited to get the community back to business."
The chamber also created an interactive map that displays business hours and services. It gives shoppers more convenient access to information about who's open, and business owners can fill out a survey through the chamber to populate a spot on the map. Wisconsin Rapids Tribune
Elmhurst Chamber: DuPage Guidelines: Click on this link to review the reopening guides in detail: https://www.choosedupage.com/open-dupage/.
Carol Stream Chamber: It's Time to Get Back to Business Tool Kit:
provides information how to safely reopen and updating policies.
Western Dupage Chamber: DUPAGE REOPENING GUIDE (as of May 27)
Retail Industry Reopening Guide
Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!
Winners of the 2020 One Coast Awards were announced Friday by the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Hancock Chamber of Commerce, Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce and Jackson County Chamber of Commerce.
The One Coast Awards are the rebranding of the former Roland Weeks Hall of Fame, The Sun Herald Top 10 Under 40 and Community Leader Awards and recognize outstanding business and community leaders across South Mississippi.
COMMUNITY LEADER WINNERS
Anthony Wilson, Mississippi Power
Brian Fulton, Jackson County Board of Supervisors
Cindy Lamb, Pickering Firm
Geneva Dummer, The Meeting Place
Janie O’Keefe, Disability Connection
Jenny Levens, City of Long Beach
John Kemp, U.S. Army Retired
Lori West, Humane Society of South Mississippi
Mayor Mario King, City of Moss Point
Regan Kane, John McDonald Realty
Read more: Sun Herald
Hotel Tupelo coming to downtown area
Hotel Tupelo coming to downtown area
A four-story, 80-room boutique hotel aims to provide visitors and guests a unique experience in downtown Tupelo.
The Tupelo Redevelopment Agency (TRA) and the City of Tupelo partnered with the Thrash Group to build the hotel, the Community Development Foundation (CDF) announced Tuesday.
The Thrash Group, based in Hattiesburg, develops hotel projects throughout the country.
What is a boutique hotel? A boutique hotel is a smaller hotel aimed to provide a unique setting, customer service and personality.
The hotel, named Hotel Tupelo, will include a potential local restaurant concept along with meeting room space. The hotel will include two suites facing Main Street. The hotel will include distinct features from Tupelo’s history.
It'll sit at the corner of East Main Street and Monaghan Street.
“For numerous years, this type of hotel has been requested by many of our existing businesses that want to provide a unique hotel experience for their customers and clients,” Mayor Jason Shelton said. Read more: WTVA
Back to Business Mississippi GRANT PROGRAM
What is the Back to Business Mississippi Grant Program?
On May 20, 2020, Governor Tate Reeves signed SB2772 into law, establishing the Back to Business Mississippi Grant Program.
The grants will be used to help businesses in Mississippi with 50 or fewer employees recover from the economic impact of COVID-19, including operating expenses and salaries.
The Mississippi Development Authority soon will begin accepting applications on this site from small businesses. Please check back frequently for updates or sign up below for email notifications.
Meridian, Lauderdale County, EMBDC launch economic recovery campaign
The Tupelo Redevelopment Agency (TRA) and the City of Tupelo partnered with the Thrash Group to build the hotel, the Community Development Foundation (CDF) announced Tuesday.
The Thrash Group, based in Hattiesburg, develops hotel projects throughout the country.
What is a boutique hotel? A boutique hotel is a smaller hotel aimed to provide a unique setting, customer service and personality.
The hotel, named Hotel Tupelo, will include a potential local restaurant concept along with meeting room space. The hotel will include two suites facing Main Street. The hotel will include distinct features from Tupelo’s history.
It'll sit at the corner of East Main Street and Monaghan Street.
“For numerous years, this type of hotel has been requested by many of our existing businesses that want to provide a unique hotel experience for their customers and clients,” Mayor Jason Shelton said. Read more: WTVA
Back to Business Mississippi GRANT PROGRAM
What is the Back to Business Mississippi Grant Program?
On May 20, 2020, Governor Tate Reeves signed SB2772 into law, establishing the Back to Business Mississippi Grant Program.
The grants will be used to help businesses in Mississippi with 50 or fewer employees recover from the economic impact of COVID-19, including operating expenses and salaries.
The Mississippi Development Authority soon will begin accepting applications on this site from small businesses. Please check back frequently for updates or sign up below for email notifications.
Meridian, Lauderdale County, EMBDC launch economic recovery campaign
The East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, the city of Meridian and Lauderdale County launched a campaign to restart the local economy, as the region continues to feel the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The goal of the "Restart, Restore, Recover" campaign is to help build momentum and confidence as local businesses reopen, according to a news release.
“We want to responsibly restart our local economy, help restore jobs and services, and recover our quality of life,” EMBDC President and CEO Bill Hannah said.
Meridian Mayor Percy Bland said that the city's March sales tax revenue, which decreased about 9 percent in a comparison of March 2019 and March 2020, was better than January and February revenue.
The pandemic's impact to April sales tax revenue would not be known until later this month, he said.
Sam Dabit, owner of Sam's Fashions on Fifth Street, said business has been slow at the downtown shop, which has been back open for only a few weeks.
“It’s going to take a while for us to recuperate,” Dabit said. “So far, things are going well.”
Dabit said he was supportive of any campaign to help local businesses.
Lauderdale County hotels that were traditionally at 68 percent occupancy were at 25 percent occupancy for the month of April, said Executive Director Dede Mogollon with Lauderdale County Tourism.
Meridian's food and beverage sales tax revenue decreased about $16,652 from February to March this year, according to city records. Read more: Meridian Star
Kentucky Secretary of State Michael G. Adams discussed voting policies and procedures for the upcoming June 23 primary election during a virtual meeting hosted by the Southeast Kentucky Chamber on Tuesday.
During his presentation, Adams discussed the four ways in which Kentuckians were encouraged to vote in the upcoming election: Voting in person on election day (June 23), voting early in-person with your county clerk (June 8-22), voting via absentee ballot and hand-delivering to county clerk, and voting absentee ballot and mailing to county clerk.
Adams told attendees that voting by mail-in ballot was the “safest and most convenient way” for them to vote, given the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
In response to a question regarding the limited number of polling stations for the upcoming election, Adams said that is a “bug” in the system as well as a product of “reality.” He noted that officials were not able to use many popular polling destinations for the upcoming election due to COVID-19 including schools, nursing homes, and churches. Another reason for the lack of polling stations for the June 23 election is due to the lack of available polling workers, Adams said.
“We were glad to team up with Secretary Adams to spread awareness for the upcoming primary election,” said Jordan Gibson, Southeast Kentucky Chamber president and CEO. “Even amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important for the people in our communities to make their voices heard, and we encourage them to do so in the safest way possible.”
To request a mail-in ballot or to learn more about voting in the upcoming election, visit www.govoteky.com. To view the meeting in its entirety, visit the Chamber on Facebook.
For more information about the Southeast Kentucky Chamber, visit them online at www.sekchamber.com, or call 606.432.5504.
SAUK VALLEY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
More than $11,000.00 Awarded to Local Students
STERLING, Ill – Each year the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce awards scholarships to assist area students in pursuing their dream of a college education. This year the organization is awarding 11 local student’s scholarships to continue their education for the 2020-2021 academic year. Funds for the scholarships come from fundraisers held throughout the year.
The Chamber’s Agri-Business committee awarded $1500 scholarships to Clayton Johnson, Prophetstown High School; Kathleen Smith, Illinois State University; Brett Buhrow, AFC High School; Connor Erbsen, Iowa State University; Molly Biggs; Dixon High School. In addition, two $750 scholarships were awarded to Emma Frank, Sterling High School and Spencer Schutz, Rock Falls High School who will be attending Blackhawk Community College. All are invited to be guests at the Chamber’s Annual Steak Fry in the Country on August 6th which is a fundraiser for the agri-business scholarship fund.
The Chamber also awarded the Charles A. Farnham Scholarship which was established in 1968 and honors the late Mr. Farnham who was an active member of the Chamber. Mr. Farnham’s professional background was focused in the area of industrial relations, serving in this capacity at Northwestern Steel and Wire. This year two $1000 scholarships were awarded. The recipients are Lauren Moeller and Erin Porter, Rock Falls High School.
Two scholarships were also awarded to students pursing an education in manufacturing. Kyle Winebrenner and Gabrielle Gillen, Sterling High School are the recipients of the Manufacturing Scholarships.
Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce President, Lance Buser shared, “In such uncertain times it is a pleasure to provide these outstanding young adults the opportunity to pursue their dreams and provide financial support. My hope is that they get their degrees and bring their talents back to the Sauk Valley.”
The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce represents more than 380 area businesses in more than 20 cities in northwestern Illinois and in Clinton and Davenport, Iowa. For more information on the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce, its members or for a schedule of events please go to the website at www.saukvalleyareachamber.com or call 815-625-2400.
IRA: Here's what you need to know about restaurants and bars reopening with outdoor service
Wearing a facial covering when not eating or drinking and being careful about congregating as a group are among the differences customers will need to get used to when sit-down restaurants and bars reopen Friday with outdoor service.
"We encourage guests to be patient as restaurants adhere to the health and safety protocols in the guidelines, which were developed in collaboration with leading health and science organizations and experts," said Sam Toia, the Illinois Restaurant Association's president and CEO.
Those who plan to return "should wear face coverings over their nose and mouth while on premises," except while eating and drinking at a table, according to the state. Exceptions can be made for people with medical conditions or disabilities that prevent them from safely wearing a mask.
Tables will be limited to parties of six and must be at a social distance of 6 feet apart, preferably separated by Plexiglass. Employees should wear cloth masks when within 6 feet of customers or others, per the state regulations.
Toia said guests should expect to find disposable serveware at some places, single-use or digital menus, and floor markers in waiting areas indicating a safe, 6-foot distance. They'll also need to make sure customers spread out when waiting for a table.
Restaurant owners say regular restrooms will be available, but patrons should refrain from crowding them. Customers can expect to see hand sanitizer for their use in outdoor seating areas, and plenty of disinfecting and cleaning by employees. Read more: Daily Herald
One Southern Indiana (1si): Applications for “Jeffersonville Sustains” Forgivable Loan Program Available to Assist Local Businesses with Recovery
City Council President Matt Owen provided the vision and shared his support for the program. “A significant portion of the City’s tax revenues are derived from property tax and local income tax. If local, small businesses are unable to remain operational and pay wages to their employees, the City loses those receipts,” he said. “A lot has gone into building our small business community in Jeffersonville. This program is set up to protect that investment.”
The request process opens today, May 12th, and applications will be accepted through Monday, May 18th, at 5 p.m. You may access the application and other relevant information by visiting the 1si Covid-19 Response page at www.1si.org/covid-19 or later this week, at the 1si Reset website at www.1si.org/soin-reset. You may also obtain a hard copy of the application with instructions for submission at the main office of SoIN Tourism, located at 315 Southern Indiana Avenue, Jeffersonville, Ind. A second application process will open on May 19th, if funds are not exhausted.
According to loan organizers, the purpose of the zero percent forgivable loan is to keep small businesses viable through the COVID-19 pandemic and recovery. Loan amounts up to $5,000 will be considered and are forgivable after initial repayment terms are met. The term of the loan repayment is fifteen (15) months, with first payment due on 10/1/2020.
As Vice President of the City Council, Scottie Maples stated, “It is in the best interest of the City to engage in every effort possible to breath life into the local, small business community. This program will do that for several of our unique businesses that have nowhere else to turn.”
Funds will be awarded based on demonstrated need and may only be used to assist with payroll expenses, rent and utilities. The appointed loan committee will review applications and required documentation and recipients will be notified by Friday, May 22nd at 5 p.m.
President and CEO of 1si Wendy Dant Chesser commented, “Just as all citizens and leaders of Southern Indiana came together to fight this health crisis, we are now watching as that same compassion is addressing the economic effects. Very few businesses – regardless of size – can survive two months with limited or no income. The Jeffersonville Sustains program will help the City’s public-facing establishments shore up their finances so they can overcome the economic effects of the pandemic.”
Chamber of Commerce offers disaster relief money for small businesses in Jones County
The Jones County Chamber of Commerce is offering up to $500 in grant money to small business members affected by the recent tornadoes or the coronavirus pandemic.
The Disaster Relief Micro Grant Program is for members who are in good standing as of March 30, 2020, and have paid dues at the $275 Benefactor level or above at least once and must be physically located in Jones County.
The grant money is being made available by Mississippi Power and Dixie Electric to help small businesses as they struggle to recover from the disasters.
Amanda Roll, Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Director, says this is all about Jones County businesses helping one another.
“This program is really testament to our businesses working together," Roll said. “We have some of our biggest businesses in the county, Dixie Electric and Mississippi Power, reaching out to support the smaller businesses.”
“I think that, as the Chamber of Commerce, this is what we want to see," Roll said. "The collaboration of the community coming together and so everyone succeeds in the end, and we’re just really glad to have their support for this program and be able to help our members this way.”
For more information on how to apply, members can go the Jones County Chamber of Commerce website at jonescounty.com. Read more: WDAM
Exclusive Benefit to Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce Members
Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce members are eligible for a special program with the Chamber's small business consortium with our local Employee Assistance Program HelpNet.
This member benefit is for local businesses with 150 or fewer employees. Contact HelpNet to learn more.
In the interim please take a look at the following helpful recordings/articles for you and your employees:
Working Parents
Safe Actions for Return to Work
Eldercare: How to Support those in isolation & stay connected
Lansing Regional Chamber: RELAUNCH Greater Lansing Task Force Guide Offers Blueprint for Restarting Business Operations Post Covid-19
A task force consisting of prominent and trusted leaders from multiple industry sectors in Greater Lansing has developed a comprehensive resource guide that will serve as a blueprint for employers as they restart their businesses in the next phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. The RELAUNCH Greater Lansing: Economic Rehabilitation Task Force created the resource guide to assist organizations as they reopen, while ensuring safety for employees and customers.
“There has been an overwhelming amount of information during COVID-19 that seems to change daily, sometimes even hourly,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This resource guide was developed under the guidance of healthcare professionals, and contains the latest information and best practices so employers can have confidence the proper health protocols are in place to allow for a safe and successful restart of operations and to build economic resiliency.”
“Our goal was to closely align relaunch efforts in the region with the guidelines established by public health officials in the state of Michigan and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,” said Matt Resch, Owner, Resch Strategies. “We have relied heavily on the guidance of healthcare professionals to determine the most effective path forward and return of a robust, thriving regional economy.”
The resource guide contains relevant information on best practices workplaces should follow, with different levels of importance depending on the industry. It also addresses essential workplace COVID-19 procedures.
“The proper implementation of these best practices will mitigate risk in the workplace and allow for a safe and sustained return to work,” said Mike Zamiara, President, Niowave. “If workplaces follow established guidelines, we are confident they will quickly build confidence and trust with employees, customers and the community as they reopen their business and our regional economy.
Organizations can view the resource guide on the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce website: www.lansingchamber.org/relaunch.
Members of the RELAUNCH Greater Lansing Task Force include:
Terrance Augustine, Eaton County Board of Commissioners
Farhan Bhatti, M.D., Care Free Medical
Bryan Crenshaw, Ingham County Board of Commissioners
Tim Daman, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce
Jeff Deason, Shiawassee Regional Chamber of Commerce
Tico Duckett, Duckett Brothers Distributing
Brent Forsberg, T.A. Forsberg
Peter Graham, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Physicians Health Plan
Kevin Irwin, TechSmith
Janet Lillie, Michigan State University
Jason Mellema, Ingham Intermediate School District
Bob Mooney, Meijer
Julie Pingston, Greater Lansing Convention & Visitors Bureau
Matt Resch, Resch Strategies
Carrie Rosingana, Capital Area Michigan Works!
Andy Schor, Mayor, City of Lansing
Patricia Scott, Foster Swift
Bob Trezise, Lansing Economic Area Partnership
Linda Vail, Ingham County Health Department
Kam Washburn, Clinton County Board of Commissioners
Mike Zamiara, Niowave
What does the return to retail look like in Wisconsin Rapids? It's not like it was before the coronavirus
Retail stores are starting to reopen, but shopping now looks different, as owners are doing what they can to make sure their guests are safe and feel comfortable.
Kate Parmeter owns Sweet Tea Clothing Co. in Wisconsin Rapids and Plover, where social distancing is encouraged and only five customers can shop inside at once. People also can also shop online, with the option of free shipping or curbside pickup. Not everyone is comfortable with coming inside, and employees are happy to run items out to customers.
Parmeter said people have been patient and understanding since the store reopened.
“Everyone seems happy just to be able to get out of the house and shop,” she said.
Parmeter's main concern is making her customers feel comfortable. She said she feels stressed when she’s out buying groceries, and she doesn’t want shoppers to feel anxious in her store.
“We’ve always had a laid-back atmosphere, and I hope customers continue to feel relaxed when they’re here,” Parmeter said.
Since the store reopened, Parmeter said it’s been busy but manageable. The Plover store has been a little slower, because it gets a lot of traffic from people driving by, but business is picking up each day as more businesses reopen, she said.
“It’s wonderful how supportive the community has been,” Parmeter said.
Small, stand-alone retail stores and shops in strip malls were allowed to reopen May 11 with precautions in place for shoppers, like having extra sanitizer on hand and limiting stores to five customers at a time. Two days later, the Wisconsin Supreme Court lifted Gov. Tony Evers' safer-at-home order, allowing all businesses to reopen without limits on the number of people allowed inside.
Angel Whitehead, the president of the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, said business owners are ready to open, but they want to reopen safely for both staff and customers. When the state lifted almost all restrictions, many business owners in the Wisconsin Rapids area called the chamber for clarification.
Whitehead said many owners chose to remain closed an extra day or two, to make sure they had protocols in place for their employees.
"We commend businesses for taking precautions as they open," Whitehead said. "We are very excited to get the community back to business."
The chamber also created an interactive map that displays business hours and services. It gives shoppers more convenient access to information about who's open, and business owners can fill out a survey through the chamber to populate a spot on the map. Wisconsin Rapids Tribune
Elmhurst Chamber: DuPage Guidelines: Click on this link to review the reopening guides in detail: https://www.choosedupage.com/open-dupage/.
Carol Stream Chamber: It's Time to Get Back to Business Tool Kit:
provides information how to safely reopen and updating policies.
Western Dupage Chamber: DUPAGE REOPENING GUIDE (as of May 27)
Retail Industry Reopening Guide
Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!
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 or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Magazine RFP Requested. Thank you!
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