Paducah Chamber President and CEO Sandra Wilson to serve as 2021 Chair of Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives; Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber: Online Events; How Can the Clinton Chamber Help ? Geneva Women in Business; New Arrival: Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2020-2021; Susan Spears, IOM, Appointed to Northeast Board of Regents of Institute for Organization Management; WELCOME HOME - The Nation's Premier New Resident Marketing Program for Your Chamber Members; WELCOME HOME - The Nation's Premier New Resident Marketing Program for Your Chamber Members; Tom Davenport named President and CEO of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce; Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Kosciusko Chamber: INTRODUCING KosciuskoCash; Beloit Chamber: RECAP: Influential Women in Business Highlights; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

 Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

Paducah Chamber President and CEO Sandra Wilson to serve as 2021 Chair of Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives

Sandra Wilson, president and CEO of the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce, has been chosen to serve as the 2021 Chair of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE). Wilson will assume her role as Chair on October 1, 2020.

Wilson began her role at the Paducah Chamber in 2013, where she joined on the Kentucky Chamber Board as a member of the Local Chamber Advisory Committee. Since Wilson became president, the Paducah Chamber has achieved five-star accreditation from the US Chamber of Commerce and was named Chamber of the Year in 2017 by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Wilson was the first woman to serve as chair of the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce board as well as the Paducah Economic Development Board. She has also served as chair of the Kentucky Manufacturers Association and on the board of Leadership Kentucky.

“I am thrilled to be working with Sandra this year as she serves as KCCE Chair,” said Kentucky Chamber President and CEO Ashli Watts. “Our local chamber network in Kentucky is essential to Kentucky’s economic success and with Sandra’s proven track record and leadership, I have no doubt she will help us take KCCE to the next level.”

Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives (KCCE) is the organization that provides professional development and continuing education opportunities for local chambers of commerce, their staff and volunteers. KCCE strives to provide assistance, resources and grassroots advocacy to all chambers across the state.

Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber: Online Events

We've recorded and stored all of our videos on our YouTube Channel. If you've missed any of our recent online events and webinars they can be found at https://www.bbcc.com/get-involved/past-events/.

How Can the Clinton Chamber Help ?

We want to assure you that the Clinton Chamber is here for you during this challenging time. We value the trust you place in us and want you to know that we are committed to doing whatever we can to promote your business and support our community.

The Clinton Chamber has a tremendous reach via social media—Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We can use these platforms to help get the word out about any changes regarding your business and/or hours.

If you have flyers regarding changes, please send them to info@clintonchamber.org in PDF, JPEG, and PNG format and we will post them. Check our and download our Digital Promotion Guide above for additional instructions.

If you do not follow our social media avenues, please do! We will regularly update and post for our local businesses. You can also check our website at www.clintonchamber.org for updates.

Geneva Women in Business

Geneva Women in Business is a committee of the Geneva Chamber of Commerce created to promote successful businesses in Geneva. Despite its name, all small business owners – men and women alike – are invited to take advantage of the dynamic education and networking opportunities GWIB offers.

GWIB luncheon meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at various locations in Geneva. In addition to networking, selected luncheons feature a presentation on a range of topics to help small business owners reach their goals.

Membership

All Geneva Chamber of Commerce members are automatically members of GWIB. Non-members may join GWIB for one year at a cost of $75. After that introductory year, Chamber membership is required. If you are not a Chamber member and wish to join GWIB, download the Membership Form and either e-mail, fax or mail it to the Chamber along with your payment.

New Arrival: Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2020-2021

The Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi  Membership Directory and Business Guide 2020-2021 is available at the Area Development Partnership in Hattiesburg! Thank you to Chad Newell and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 

Greater Hattiesburg 2020-2021 Membership Directory and Business Guide

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.

Susan Spears, IOM, Appointed to Northeast Board of Regents of Institute for Organization Management

A Four-Year Leadership Training Program Produced by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation 

Institute for Organization Management, the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, has appointed Susan Spears, IOM, President and CEO of the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce, to the Northeast Board of Regents. As a member of this Board, Spears will implement the policies created by Institute’s National Board of Trustees. 

“A strong Board of Regents is essential to Institute’s success,” said Raymond P. Towle, IOM, CAE, vice president of Institute for Organization Management at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. “These volunteers drive site attendance, provide recommendations for program improvement, and serve as an on-site resource for Institute participants. 

Spears also serves on the Virginia Chamber Board of Directors and she serves as Immediate Past President on the VACCE (Virginia Association for Chamber of Commerce Executives) Board of Directors, Secretary for the Families of the Wounded Board of Directors and Secretary for the Rappahannock Goodwill Industries Board of Directors. She is the Executive Director for Leadership Fredericksburg.  

Since its commencement in 1921, the Institute program has educated tens of thousands of association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders on how to build stronger organizations, better serve their members, and become strong business advocates.  Institute’s four Boards of Regents serve on behalf of the National Board of Trustees. Regents are an Institute graduate nominated by their peers. 

Institute for Organization Management is the professional development program of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation. It is the premier nonprofit professional development program for association and chamber professionals, fostering individual growth through interactive learning and networking opportunities. 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit affiliate of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce dedicated to strengthening America’s long-term competitiveness. We educate the public on the conditions necessary for business and communities to thrive, how business positively impacts communities, and emerging issues and creative solutions that will shape the future. 

WELCOME HOME - The Nation's Premier New Resident Marketing Program for Your Chamber Members

Welcome Home, the nation's premier new resident marketing program,is a new mover marketing program designed to help get your chamber members' businesses in front of the most valuable audiences - new residents.



Exclusive to chamber members, the WELCOME HOME program is a remarkable advertising tool, highly visible, targeted and delivered direct to new resident's mailboxes, catching them as they establish new buying habits.

In addition, WELCOME HOME is distributed to local libraries, park districts, municipalities and your local chamber office.

Get your members in front of one of the most valuable audiences: NEW RESIDENTS.

Don't miss this opportunity to promote your member businesses to new residents ON A MONTHLY BASIS, ALL YEAR LONG!

Mailed monthly to new movers from the previous 30 days!

They are new to the neighborhood. They have money to spend. They need your member's businesses and services.




Welcome Home Geneva


Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's NEW MOVER publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.

Tom Davenport named President and CEO of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce

 The Board of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce Tom Davenport has been selected as President/CEO of our organization. 

 According to Justin Zurlinden, Chairman of the Board, “We are pleased that Tom has joined our team. He has over 20 years of experience working with Chambers of Commerce and higher education in Illinois, Florida, and Kentucky. He also is a Southern Illinois University graduate with a degree in Workforce Development and Training."

 Davenport started September 28, 2020. He states, “This is a dream job. As a native southern Illinoisan and a SIU-C graduate, I look forward to helping to grow one of southern Illinois’ premier chambers of commerce and help local business thrive.”

 For more information contact the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce at 618-549-2146.

Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce Community Map


The Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber today! Thanks to Bob O'Callaghan and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!



Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber 2017 Community Map

Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.

Kosciusko Chamber: INTRODUCING KosciuskoCash 

Good afternoon!

We are so excited to announce our newest member benefit, Kosciusko Cash! Kosciusko Cash is a community currency program that is purchased from our website, kchamber.com and can be used ONLY at participating member merchants. Providing you, our members, a fantastic tool to grow your business. On average, large employers spend 2-3% of their payroll on holiday gifts, sales incentives and employee recognition. Our goal is to make Kosciusko Cash a reward that our large employers will use instead of national brand gift cards that have little benefit to our members or community.

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce will tentatively be launching Kosciusko Cash to the public in October 2020, which will:

 · Bring a year-round Buy Local program to our community

· Be used as holiday gifts, thank you gifts and employee rewards

· Connect you with the area’s large employers

· Help you acquire new customers

· Provide a great marketing tool for your business

To accept Kosciusko Cash, there are no upfront costs or special software/credit card machines to purchase. The program will pay you back 90% face value of the currency! The Chamber will send you an ACH reimbursement 15-30 days from the date the certificate is redeemed at your location. This is a WIN-WIN-WIN for our community.

The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors is committed to making Kosciusko Cash a huge success. They have allocated $50,000 towards BOGO gift certificates, more details will be released soon. We will market this program to our area employers as well as all of our residents.

Our goal is to make Kosciusko Cash the gift of choice in our communities!

Sincerely,

Rob Parker President & CEO

Beloit Chamber: RECAP: Influential Women in Business Highlights 

"Always outgrow your mentor" - Kerry Frank

NextGen Award Winner
Becca Peterson, Sales Executive, QPS Employment
The NextGen award is designed to recognize emerging talent.
This year’s award recipient is a workforce problem solver and people connector. She is a success-driven individual who utilizes her people skills and workforce knowledge to connect job seekers with regional businesses, thus, creating a strong workforce for area businesses. She is passionate about the work she does within her professional and personal network and also for her customers.

Role Model Award Winner
Jenny Sarabia Jones, Owner and Photographer Jenny Sarabia Portraits
The Role Model award will be someone who has inspired, enabled or supported other women in a significant way. This year’s recipient is an amazing role model to the community. She is extremely generous in every way. Whenever possible she is supporting local businesses in person and on social media which is critical in times like this. With a diverse background, she shows everyone that you can always follow your passion.

Executive Influencer Award Winner
Michelle Matthys, Vice President & Commercial Loans, SENB Bank 
This Executive Influencer award is open to women at board or senior executive level who have not only achieved personally in their organization but have made a significant difference to in business and/or community. This year’s recipient is an outgoing, jump in and help, lead by example member of the Greater Beloit community. She draws on her past experiences to participate in day-to-day decision making and strategic planning, but also is always open to learning more to expand her knowledge and thinking.

During this critical time when forward-looking industry gatherings are so important, we send a special thanks to those industry partners who stood by and support the Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce. Please show your appreciation and support the businesses who support us! THANK YOU SPONSORS

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines 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 Assistance Requested. Thank you!

Farmville Area Chamber Board of Directors Announces Anne Tyler Paulek as New Executive Director; #BestChamber practices: Cabarrus County Chamber: Survey Your Members: Current Business Needs; Town Square Chamber Publications: Valparaiso Chamber Map: Promises made, Promises kept!; Starkville Receives Pair of Mississippi Main Street Annual Awards; Wauconda Area Chamber: Illinois Regional COVID-19 Resurgence Criteria; Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory and Business Resource Guide; #BestChamber practices: Midland Business Alliance (end of the newsletter): Take a Deep Breath: Feel Good Links; Macomb County Chamber: New People Experience Platform delivered via Mobile Technology; Orion Area Chamber: Nominate the People that are Supporting Our Community!; Downtown Middleton businesses stay resilient during the pandemic; Owensboro Chamber to host Mayoral and Kentucky House of Representatives District 13 Issues Forum; Indiana Chamber: Answering questions about the 2021 legislative session; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

 Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

Farmville Area Chamber Board of Directors Announces Anne Tyler Paulek as New Executive Director

Chamber & Community Members,

 
It is my pleasure to announce on behalf of the Board of Directors that Anne Tyler Paulek has been chosen to serve in the Executive Director position for the Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce. We announced her appointment as the Interim Director at our June Virtual Luncheon and since that time, it has been the Board’s goal to take a step back and reevaluate the long-term path forward for both the position and the organization.
 
In asking Anne Tyler to step forward in this interim role we knew as a Board that we were asking an individual with deep knowledge of the organization and our community to take the reins of the organization during unprecedented times. During this period of leadership under Anne Tyler your Chamber has stepped forward to provide programmatic support to our business community as we navigate Covid-19 and has increased collaboration with other institutes in our community providing economic and business support. We also celebrated our new affiliation with the Farmville Downtown Partnership and ensured that the organization remains on strong financial footing and that membership remains strong. In addition, we are constantly seeking innovative ways to support our members. 
 
As the Board of Directors reflected on this period and evaluated the path forward, it became clear that Anne Tyler’s leadership and vision for the Chamber’s future is exactly what we need as we move forward. At the September 23rd meeting, the Board of Directors made the decision to appoint Anne Tyler Paulek as the permanent Executive Director. She begins in that role today and we congratulate her on accepting this opportunity. We look forward to what the future holds for the Chamber. I know the Chamber Board of Directors looks forward to supporting her in this new role. I hope you will join me in congratulating her, as well. We will continue to persevere through these challenging times for businesses, nonprofits, and the community and your Chamber will continue to be here for you in any way that we can.
 
Sincerely,
 
Cam Patterson, Board Chair
Farmville Area Chamber of Commerce 

#BestChamber practices: Cabarrus County Chamber: Survey Your Members: Current Business Needs

Dear members,

Our business community has strategized, pivoted and worked together to power through the challenges presented in 2020. As we move towards fourth quarter and begin planning 2021, your chamber wants to ensure that we continue to support your current needs. To help us do this, please take a few minutes to complete the short survey linked below.

http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07ehbkuux4kffq3nzv/start

We are committed to the recovery and growth of our business community. Your engagement and membership are an integral part of making Cabarrus stronger.  

Best regards,

Barbi Jones
The Chamber, Leading Business in Cabarrus
704.782.4000 x 108

Town Square Chamber Publications: Valparaiso Chamber Map: Promises made, Promises kept!

Note from the Valpo Chamber 

I want to thank you for an outstanding map which you produced for our Valpo Chamber.In my 43 years as a CEO in the Chamber Field, it was the smoothest project I have ever seen done. You made all the deadlines, your print quality and cartography was second to none. And of course you paid us in exactly the time frame you said you would so we could count the Royalty Check towards our current year revenue. 

Life is very good when dealing with Town Square Publications. 

You have the right of first refusal to do our next map. You are a great partner for our Chamber. We are living proof that a printed map is still very much in demand by both advertisers and consumers. 

It would be my pleasure to recommend Town Square Publications as a firm Chambers and Tourism Bureaus should use when considering a printed Map or other print publications. 


Rex G. Richards, CCE 
President 

Valpo Chamber of Commerce

Starkville Receives Pair of Mississippi Main Street Annual Awards

The Mississippi Main Street Association (MMSA) celebrated achievements of Mississippi Main Street Communities with a special virtual Annual Awards presentation this year.

MMSA staff presented the 2020 awards from the Old Capitol Inn in downtown Jackson via Facebook Live. The annual awards honors Main Street directors, board members and volunteers and recognizes the most outstanding downtown development projects from Main Street communities in Mississippi.

“Mississippi Main Street is excited to celebrate the achievements of our Main Street communities,” said Steven Dick, MMSA Board President. “Our local leaders have worked tirelessly to provide economic opportunities, increase quality of life, and preserve what makes our downtowns special.”

Starkville was awarded two Mississippi Main Street Awards both in the category of economic vitality. Orientation Dine Around received the Outstanding Economic Impact Award, and The IDEA Shop was awarded Outstanding Entrepreneurial Endeavor.

Wauconda Area Chamber: Illinois Regional COVID-19 Resurgence Criteria

 

As mentioned in the Chamber's weekly Facebook Live video you can track Lake & McHenry County region 9 experience rates which was at 5.7% as of September 17th. Keep protecting your customers and employees so we only move forward, not backward. http://www.dph.illinois.gov/regionmetrics?regionID=9

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory and Business Resource Guide 

 Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory and Business Resource Guide is available at the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 

Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory & Business Resource Guide

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.

#BestChamber practices: Midland Business Alliance (end of the newsletter): Take a Deep Breath: Feel Good Links

Although we are experiencing trying and uncertain times, there is still a lot of good happening in our community and around the country. Here are some links for some uplifting stories and tips for dealing with stressful situations.
 

Seeing the Good

·     New Sanford Home Unveiled for Flood Victim

·     Midland Is About To Get More Neighborly

·     Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow Foundation Increases United Way Match

·     Roasting a Masterpiece: The Art and Evolution of Live Oak Coffeehouse

·     COVID Conversions: Novel Ways We Used Our Outdoor and Public Spaces in Midland This Year

Diversity & Inclusion

·     Midland Hosts National Bestselling Author Austin Channing Brown in Diversity Discussion

·     5 Lessons To Guide Your Organization’s Diversity, Equity And Inclusion Journey

·     If You Want to be More Diverse and Inclusive, You Need to Start with This

·     Diversity and Inclusion Must Add Up for Successful Governance

·     Will Remote Working Affect Corporate Diversity and Inclusion Efforts?

·     Thinking About Diversity and Inclusion

·     Five Common Misconceptions About Workplace Diversity

Staying Healthy & Happy

·     New Podcast from The Legacy Center for Community Success: Directions NOT Included

·     Workplace Health and Wellbeing in the Age of the Pandemic

·     Invest in Your Employees' Wellbeing; You Can't Afford Not To

·     Exercise vs. Stress How Working Out Affects Mental Health

·     Microsoft Says It’s Time to Prioritize Wellbeing over Efficiency

·     The Red-Flag Signs You May Be Burning Out While Working From Home

Wellness Coaching: Tweak Your Remote Work Environment and Routine For Success

Macomb County Chamber: New People Experience Platform delivered via Mobile Technology

Simple text messages - no app - no login - no coding 

We are rolling out a new People Experience Platform to all Macomb County Chamber of Commerce members. This new platform will make it easier to:
Communicate
Share opinions, ideas and feedback
Recognize and celebrate successes
Learn positive psychology tips 
Be inspired by short Hollywood movie clips
Be happy & engaged at work
THRIVE!

To get started, simply text MCCC to 44000.

OPT-IN 

As we work to engage our membership at a higher level, we are asking all members to opt-in and get ready for an engaging experience. We are in beta-testing mode right now and will launch the full program in November. If you decide you do not like the experience, opting-out is just as easy as opting-in. 

Orion Area Chamber: Nominate the People that are Supporting Our Community! 

TODAY IS THE LAST DAY TO NOMINATE! 

We truly believe that this year has brought out the best in our business community. If there is a person that you think of when you read any of these descriptions, click below and show them the support that they've shown for our community! 

2020 Business Person of the Year 

The Business Person of the Year not only runs a successful local business, but also reflects a commitment to social responsibility and exemplifies strong community and Chamber involvement. In addition, this individual exemplifies a positive social and/or economic impact in the Orion Area. This individual is either the primary owner or a management level professional directly responsible for leading the business. 


2020 Entrepreneur of the Year 

The Entrepreneur of the Year award is presented to the member who is the founder, owner, CEO or President of a new business, taking on greater than normal financial risks in order to establish their business. They demonstrate a high level of entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, perseverance, creativity and determination. They also contribute to the future growth of businesses in the Orion Area. 

2020 Youth Impact Award 

The member who receives the annual Youth Impact Award has made a significant impact in the lives and well-being of youth in the Orion community in the areas of entrepreneurship, education, health, and wellness, above and beyond the general scope of their expected responsibilities. 

2020 Economic Impact Award 

The member who receives the annual Economic Impact Award makes a positive economic impact in the Orion area in the area of jobs, opportunities for advancing new local industries, or revitalizing a sector of the community. This member makes a positive impact on living, working, or playing in the Orion Area. 

2020 Community Beautification Award 

The member who receives the annual Community Beautification Award demonstrates excellence in practices to preserve, maintain and improve the attractiveness of the community, above and beyond the general scope of their expected responsibilities. 

Downtown Middleton businesses stay resilient during the pandemic

Small businesses are the backbone of towns in Wisconsin. During the pandemic many have suffered and some will be forced to close their doors.

Downtown Middleton is scattered with small businesses, restaurants and boutiques. These business owners have faced similar hardships as others across the country. The Middleton Chamber of Commerce started a survey on their website to ask businesses if they would be interested in a new loan program that would give low-to-no interest loans with generous payback options to the city. This is one way the City is trying to help businesses stay afloat as well as taking part in all of the federal and state aid provided.

Mary Miller owns Middleton Travel, a local travel agency in Middleton, and right now she is working for free. The travel industry was hit hard when the pandemic started. Miller says it was as if everything came to a screeching halt.

“It went from a fantastic 2019, we were all experiencing great business in the beginning of 2020, and then boom it just came to a stop. So it went from a very robust industry to just hitting the wall," Miller said. Read more: NBC 15

Owensboro Chamber to host Mayoral and Kentucky House of Representatives District 13 Issues Forum

Owensboro, KY – As a part of the Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce’s mission to provide leadership, advocacy and member services that foster grown and economic prosperity for our region, the Chamber will host an issues forum for the Owensboro Mayoral Race as well as the Kentucky House of Representatives.  The forums are the featured Rooster Booster program on October 1 at 7:30 a.m., streaming on Zoom and Facebook Live. The program will be available on YouTube following the conclusion of the event.   

“Issue forums help the community get to know the candidates,” said Candance Castlen Brake, President and CEO of the Chamber. “It is our role at the chamber to provide non-partisan access to the candidates and learn an opportunity to learn their positions on issues that affect the economic prosperity of the Greater Owensboro region.”  

“COVID-19 has definitely presented challenges in the way campaigns are conducted.  Even though this will not be an in-person debate, it will be an opportunity for more people to have access.”

The forums will be moderated by Matt Francis, Executive Editor of the Messenger-Inquirer.  The Mayoral Forum is co-sponsored with the Neighborhood Alliance Program.

On October 29, the Chamber will host Red White and Blue sponsored by Big Rivers where all Greater Owensboro candidates on the ballot in contested races will deliver old-style political stump speeches to a crowd on the Daviess County Courthouse Lawn.  Candidates in the following races have been invited:  Owensboro City Commission, Owensboro Mayor, Kentucky District Judge, Kentucky House of Representative Districts 11, 12, 13; United States House of Representatives and the United States Senate.

Indiana Chamber: Answering questions about the 2021 legislative session

 How will the Indiana General Assembly conduct its business in the new year? Will there be a delay in the beginning of session? What will be the keys to forming a new state budget?

 Join us virtually on November 16 to hear from the Indiana Chamber and a panel of legislative leaders – just before Organization Day – on the 2021 issues that will have the greatest impact on the Indiana business community.

Schedule:

The presentation will take place from 1:00-2:30 p.m. (EST)

 Price: FREE for Indiana Chamber members

$49 for list price

Indiana state and local government employees can attend at no charge – use code GOVATTD at checkout.

 Location:

This event is virtual via the Zoom platform. Join us from the comfort of your own home or office.

 Click below to register online, or contact Lisa at customerservice@indianachamber.com or (800) 824-6885.

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines 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 Assistance Requested. Thank you!

#BestChamber practices; From Frank J. Kenny: Have you thought of doing a Drive Through Food Fair? Sun Prairie Chamber: Drive Through Corn Fest; The 2020 Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory and Community Guide; Pritzker Told 'Reverse Your Decision' On Restaurants, Bars; Bears legend Gale Sayers dies at 77; Louisville's chamber of commerce throws its support behind JCPS property tax increase; Iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery closes after 71 years in Arlington Heights; ADP President says Pine Belt Economy Recovering from Pandemic; South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; Grand Rapids Chamber: Virtual Town Hall Residential Growth & Housing; Fredericksburg Regional Chamber Opposes Making DOLI Regulation Permanent; Another Virginia Chamber: Prince William Chamber is STRONGLY Opposed to the Department of Labor and Industry’s COVID-19 Regulations becoming Permanent; Former Mayor McDonald heading New Haven Chamber of Commerce; Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Community Map; A new leader: Westfield Chamber of Commerce announces Steve Latour as executive director; Membership and Communications Director - The Bedford Chamber of Commerce - Bedford, IN - $37,500 - $45,000 a year; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

 Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

#BestChamber practices; From Frank J. Kenny: Have you thought of doing a Drive Through Food Fair?

Join us for the next Chamber Pros Roundtable TODAY as we hear from Carrie Allamby, Executive Director, Coweta Chamber of Commerce on her super successful Drive Through Food Fair.

I will be interviewing her on...

• How she brought in $18,000

• How she promoted it to get 400 cars through

• How long it took to prepare

Register here (it's free) ❤️.

Learn from our presenter then choose a topic/table of interest for face to face networking with chamber peers. Move from table to table learning and building relationships with chamber colleagues. We go from 4pm till 6pm eastern. Come and go as your schedule allows. 

Sun Prairie Chamber: Drive Through Corn Fest

We knew it could be done, and we knew Sun Prairie could do it.

JoAnn Orfan, who served as Sun Prairie’s mayor during a period of explosive growth from 1990-2003, once referred to Sun Prairie as “The Can-Do City.”

Although the slogan never stuck, it aptly captured the nature of the people living in the second largest city in Dane County and one of the fastest growing in the State of Wisconsin.

The challenge had been presented: Serve hundreds of people who had already committed that they were going to come to the Drive-Through Corn Fest on Saturday, Aug. 22, to help several different community organizations that suffered when the regular Sweet Corn Festival was canceled.

Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Amy Skicki said she thought it was the second most popular event in Wisconsin this year except for the Drive-Through State Fair.

But she had the most praise for volunteers who came together to make it happen. Many Sun Prairie civic organizations from the Lions to the Knights of Columbus pitched in, and many more local business owners and Sun Prairie area residents stepped up to volunteer, too.

Workers from local businesses -- including Fun Time Bounces (Charlie Miller), Buck & Honey’s, Wisconsin Distributors, the Happy Hikers 4-H club and BB Jacks -- braved the huge crowd (the chamber processed 1,771 transactions on the day of the festival) to help feed and quench the demand for food and beer.

And let’s not forget the most important people: Drive-Through Corn Fest patrons.

Some of those patrons reported waiting in line for more than two hours to get their freshly steamed or uncooked sweet corn and other Corn Fest food favorites. And some of those patrons used the spot on their menu to donate additional money to help support the Corn Fest.

Although some bills are still outstanding, each participating organization is expected to receive $5,000.

We think that is outstanding and a true tribute to Skicki and her group of volunteers, organizers and helpers who pulled together the Drive-Through Corn Fest.

The 2020 Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory and Community Guide 

The 2020 Clarkston Chamber of Commerce Membership Directory and Community Guide is available at the Royal Oak Chamber today! Thanks to Shaun Hayes and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Clarkston 2020 Membership Directory and Community Guide


Town Square Publications  (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. 

Pritzker Told 'Reverse Your Decision' On Restaurants, Bars

Joliet's Chamber signed a letter joining several area chambers denouncing Governor Pritzker's order closing indoor bars and restaurants.

Joliet Chamber of Commerce President Jen Howard has joined business leaders in Plainfield, Naperville, Lockport, Bolingbrook, Frankfort, Mokena and surrounding towns in asking Gov. J.B. Pritzker to lift this week's mandate that prevents Will and Kankakee County restaurants and bars from serving indoor guests.

The governor's measure is aimed at reducing the rising number of coronavirus cases in the Joliet and Kankakee areas and will remain in place for at least two weeks, if not longer.

Here is a copy of the letter that was submitted to Pritzker on Thursday afternoon:

Dear Governor Pritzker:

As a Chamber of Commerce, we routinely advocate on behalf of our members in several areas of interest. Today, on behalf of the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry and our neighboring chambers we stand together and write to you to share our very serious concerns with the recent decision to implement what we believe are unfair restrictions targeted at the restaurant and bar industry.
One of the greatest and most displeasing issues is the fact that our Region 7 has not been afforded the same opportunity as the businesses in Region 4 to reduce the number of inside patrons at bars and restaurants before moving onto harsher restrictions such as what are in place beginning today. These businesses are part of an industry that has been one of, if not the most, severely affected during this pandemic and to place these additional measures on them will be catastrophic to their survival. We ask for immediate consideration to reverse your decision and allow these establishments to remain open for indoor seating at a capacity of the lesser of 25 individuals or 25 percent of capacity. These businesses deserve the same opportunities as the Metro East region and now face issues of scrambling to use up inventory and secure outdoor seating equipment and supplies.
Yes, they will adapt and do what is necessary to keep their doors open. Why though, does one industry need to bear the brunt of the responsibility to reduce positivity rates throughout the region. They have had to pivot and re-create once and are a determined group, but this decision is just going to pull more resources from them. It is our hope that they will all survive these latest restrictions, but nothing is guaranteed.
It is unfortunate that recent spikes have driven our region over the 8% threshold. However, we fully support actions to mitigate the spread of the Coronavirus through proper mask wearing, social distancing, hand washing, and additional methods of sanitization. We also believe that the great majority of our business members are following these guidelines. At the beginning of this pandemic, it was our understanding that we all needed to accept the responsibility of lessening the burden on the healthcare system and decrease the death rate. With that said, we believe that our medical providers have more than adequate resources and availability to serve those in need. In addition, we do not see an increase in the death rate in this region and in fact it seems to be steadily decreasing.
Finally, in light of this detrimental decision, we ask that the State and the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity immediately set up a system to automatically approve all of those affected by this mandate to receive funds in the next round of the Business Interruption Grants. It is the least that our government can do for those that continually face an uphill climb to run their business. We would be more than happy to hold further discussion on this proposal to see that this industry can be accommodated.

Sincerely,
Jen Howard, President, Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry
Kevin O'Keeffe, Executive Director, Bolingbrook Area Chamber of Commerce
Tasha Marsaglia, Executive Director, Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce
Annette Parker, Executive Director, Lockport Chamber of Commerce
Dr. Therese M. Bogs, President, Monee Chamber of Commerce
Glenn Pasiewicz, Executive Director, Heritage Corridor Business Alliance
Kris Pasquini, Interim Executive Director, Frankfort Chamber of Commerce
Reba Osborne, Director of Government Affairs, Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce
Melissa M. Fedora, Executive Director, Mokena Chamber of Commerce
Angela Morrey, Executive Director, Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce
Sarah Marion, President & CEO, Manteno Chamber of Commerce

Source: Patch.com 

Bears legend Gale Sayers dies at 77

Chicago Bears legend Gale Sayers died early Wednesday morning at 77, the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced. Sayers, a running back known as the "Kansas Comet," was drafted by thew Bears in 1965, but played only 68 games because of injuries. Full Story

Louisville's chamber of commerce throws its support behind JCPS property tax increase

Greater Louisville Inc., the metro region's chamber of commerce, threw its support Monday behind the proposed Jefferson County Public Schools property tax increase.

JCPS is seeking a 7-cent property tax hike that would roughly equal an extra $70 a year for a $100,000 home.

The Jefferson County Board of Education approved the tax increase in May, with leaders saying that the roughly $51 million in new revenue would largely go to building and renovating schools, and to supporting the district's most disadvantaged students.

"GLI recognizes the struggles our business community finds itself in with the uncertainty of the global pandemic," Sarah Davasher-Wisdom, president and CEO of GLI, said Monday in a statement. "We join JCPS in this pursuit to advance equity and ensure proper investments are being made to close the student achievement gap." Read more: Courier-Journal

Iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery closes after 71 years in Arlington Heights

After more than seven decades, the iconic Arlington Cake Box Bakery in Arlington Heights has served its last chocolate chip coffee cake and Campbell Street Special.

The third-generation owners announced Monday that Sunday had been the last day for their mom-and-pop business after 71 years at two locations in the village.

"This is a happy ending," said Paul Gardner, who has run the bakery with his wife Karen for the last 20 years. "This is a 71-year-old business that's just run its course and it's time to move on to do something else. It was a wonderful 71 years. We just realized it was time."

Known for its coffee cakes, pastries, breads and other treats, Arlington Cake Box Bakery has served the last of its baked goods after 71 years in business in downtown Arlington Heights. - Courtesy of Arlington Cake Box Bakery

The COVID-19 pandemic no doubt was a factor in the decision to close up shop, Gardner said. But he and his wife had also been looking for a buyer to take over the bakery for quite some time, with no luck. And their three daughters, now all grown up, have careers of their own and weren't interested in the bakery business, Gardner said.

Ultimately, the bakery's five-year lease at 1617 W. Campbell St. in the Westgate Park & Shop center was coming up for renewal and the Gardners decided not to. They're planning to auction off their bakery equipment next month.

"It's been a really rewarding experience, but it's a lot of work," said Gardner, referring to the long hours and physical labor at their 3,700-square-foot shop, where everything was made from scratch. "It's a vocation. It really is."

The famous Campbell Street Special coffee cake at Arlington Cake Box featured butter cream and custard mixed in with Swedish dough. - Courtesy of Arlington Cake Box Bakery

Karen Gardner's grandparents, Walter and Wilma Aronson, opened the bakery in 1949 at the spot now home to Salsa 17 restaurant on Campbell near Vail Avenue in downtown Arlington Heights. Walter worked at his father's bakery in Chicago and brought those Swedish recipes with him to Arlington Heights.

The Aronsons' daughter Donna took over the business in 1978 and, with her husband Robert Bollmann, moved the bakery 12 blocks west to the Westgate strip center.

The Bollmanns' daughter is Karen Gardner, who has run the bakery with her husband Paul. They both grew up

They thanked their loyal customers, who kept coming back for baked goods and sweet treats. Especially popular were the coffee cakes, like the one named for Campbell Street, featuring butter cream and custard mixed in with Swedish dough.

"You put the work in and you make a quality product and the people will show up," Paul Gardner said. "We had a loyal fan base. They always showed up. They were always there for us. The money was never an issue. Even during the pandemic, the support was amazing. (Arlington Heights and the surrounding area) is a great place to run a business." Read more: Daily Herald

 ADP President says Pine Belt Economy Recovering from Pandemic

The head of the Area Development Partnership says the Hattiesburg-area economy is wasting no time recovering from the effects of the coronavirus pandemic.

Chad Newell, president of the ADP, says the diversity of the Greater Hattiesburg area economy is helping it make a solid comeback.

“While this won’t be a quick fix, a quick recovery, we will certainly recover faster than most metro areas around the region. And we’re really already seeing it,” Newell said.

Just last week, Hattiesburg’s Dirt Cheap (Channel Control Merchants, LLC) announced it would add 100 new employees to its distribution centers.

Newell says other companies and organizations are also hiring.

“For example, Forrest General Hospital and other healthcare employers are hiring nurses, we’ve got Kohler on the manufacturing front making additional hires and those are just a couple of local companies,” he said.

Newell said there are other indications that the economy is rebounding.

“When you look at housing sales for the first six months of 2020, they are up over the first six months of 2019,” Newell said. “With low mortgage rates, people are buying and selling homes.”

And he says the local leisure and hospitality industry, hard hit by the pandemic, is also recovering.

“Now, with the restaurants fully opening back up, they are going to recover, those jobs will come back,” Newell said.

“The hotel occupancy rates are beginning to increase.”

Newell also said new federal and state programs to help businesses during the pandemic have saved many local jobs.

He says, in particular, the federal Paycheck Protection Program has saved about 22,000 jobs in the Pine Belt.

South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory  

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Guide & Business Directory   is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 

South Suburban Chamber 2020 Community and Visitor Guide

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.

Grand Rapids Chamber: Virtual Town Hall Residential Growth & Housing

Monday, October 12

10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
As West Michigan seeks to rebound and position ourselves for success post-COVID, a key target should be the retention and continued attraction of a talented workforce.

A recently completed Grand Rapids and Kent County Housing Needs Assessment predicts continued household growth and a need for tens of thousands of more housing units to meet growing demand.

Join this event to understand the study results, steps that can be taken to help address the growing need, and what success could look like for our region with Ryan Kilpatrick of Housing Next.

We will also have a panel featuring the Home Builders Association of Michigan, local housing providers and stakeholders to talk about the changing landscape and how we can move forward to create a vibrant, growing community.

Questions? Contact Joshua Lunger at josh@grandrapids.org.

Fredericksburg Regional Chamber Opposes Making DOLI Regulation Permanent 

The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber is STRONGLY opposed to the Department of Labor and Industry’s COVID-19 Regulations becoming permanent. In a time where some reports estimate that 20-25% of businesses will close forever, these regulations threaten to drive those numbers even higher. 

Businesses, especially small businesses, are already struggling to survive these hard economic times and these regulations only increase the burden on them. The business community had no real input when they were originally drafted and developed and when they were put in place. The regulations were developed too quickly and are incredibly broad in scope. 

On top of these regulations, the business community also needs to follow guidelines from the CDC, OSHA and there is guidance in the CARES ACT as well. Those regulations alone change almost week to week, increasing the amount of regulations that businesses will have to adhere to will only make a hard situation more difficult. 

We also see the DOLI Regulations dramatically increasing the amount of litigation that will go to the courts. The have created a litany of reasons for filing a lawsuit, and a majority of those reasons are based on an individual’s prospective, rather than on facts and the situation. 

Making the DOLI Regulations permanent will only hurt businesses as they try to move into “the new normal” that we find ourselves adjusting too. 

We STRONGLY encourage all businesses to comment on the public comment page and request that the Board NOT make these Regulations Permanent! You can do so by going here: https://townhall.virginia.gov/L/Comments.cfm?generalnoticeid=1137 

Contact: 
Kyle Allwine 
Vice President of Membership and Government Affairs 
540.373.9508 
kyle@fxbgchamber.org 

Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce 
2300 Fall Hill Avenue, Suite 240 
Fredericksburg, Virginia 22401 
540.373.9400 
www.fxbgchamber.org

Another Virginia Chamber: Prince William Chamber is STRONGLY Opposed to the Department of Labor and Industry’s COVID-19 Regulations becoming Permanent

The Prince William Chamber is STRONGLY opposed to the Department of Labor and Industry’s COVID-19 Regulations becoming permanent. In a time where some reports estimate that 20-25% of businesses will close forever, these regulations threaten to drive those numbers even higher. 

Businesses, especially small businesses, are already struggling to survive these hard economic times and these regulations only increase the burden on them. The business community had no real input when they were originally drafted and developed and when they were put in place. The regulations were developed too quickly and are incredibly broad in scope. 

On top of these regulations, the business community also needs to follow guidelines from the CDC, OSHA and there is guidance in the CARES ACT as well. Those regulations alone change almost week to week, increasing the amount of regulations that businesses will have to adhere to will only make a hard situation more difficult. 

We also see the DOLI Regulations dramatically increasing the amount of litigation that will go to the courts. The have created a litany of reasons for filing a lawsuit, and a majority of those reasons are based on an individual’s prospective, rather than on facts and the situation. 

Making the DOLI Regulations permanent will only hurt businesses as they try to move into “the new normal” that we find ourselves adjusting too. 

We STRONGLY encourage all businesses to comment on the public comment page and request that the Board NOT make these Regulations Permanent! You can have your voice heard by going here: https://townhall.virginia.gov/L/Comments.cfm?generalnoticeid=1137 

Ross W. Snare IV
Senior Director of Operations and Government Affairs
Prince William Chamber of Commerce 
9720 Capital Ct., Suite 203; Manassas, VA 20110
703-618-1422

Former Mayor McDonald heading New Haven Chamber of Commerce

Terry McDonald, the former mayor of New Haven, has been named president and CEO of the New Haven Chamber of Commerce. He steps into the position held by Charlie Hatten, who retired after seven years representing the local business community.

For McDonald it’s like coming home. When he became a New Haven police officer 36 years ago, the department was stationed in the 1913 Building, which had previously been the City Hall. “In fact,” he said, “when I became a detective my desk was situated almost where my desk is positioned now.

“I’m really pleased to be representing the local businesses and working with the New Allen Alliance and the regional chamber organization, Greater Fort Wayne Inc. The business owners have a vested interest in the community and it’s our job to partner with them to see that their voices are heard and help them obtain their wants and needs by taking an active role in proposed legislation that affects them.”

McDonald said his first priority is to familiarize himself with the operation and services of the chamber and then make the rounds of the membership to learn their perspectives. Then, he said, he and his staff will concentrate on expanding the membership from 300 with a goal of 500 in the next year-and-a-half to two years.

“Just because COVID-19 has slowed business activity doesn’t mean that we’ll be sitting around waiting for people to come in and join up. Monica Lepper, who is in charge of membership and dues, will be calling on businesses to explain how the Chamber can assist them. We’ll also take this time to review our policies and procedures,” he said. Read more: Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly

Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Plymouth Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the New Castle-Henry County Chamber! Thanks to Connie Holzwart and the chamber membership for their help and direction putting this together!!

 Plymouth Indiana Chamber Map

Town Square Publications  (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633. 

A new leader: Westfield Chamber of Commerce announces Steve Latour as executive director

When Steve Latour heard about the open position at Westfield Chamber of Commerce, he knew it was the right fit for him.

Latour began his new career as executive director of the chamber Sept. 8.

Latour is a former CEO of a nationwide nonprofit and foundation and most recently served as the chief housing officer for Alpha Sigma Phi Fraternity’s national house corporation.
“Having been in the Greek and nonprofit world for a number of years, I wanted to get more involved in city government and local nonprofits,” Latour said. “So when I heard about this opportunity, I thought this would be a good fit with the membership organization (experience) that I have had and my communications background would be good for a growing city like Westfield.”
A Westfield resident, Latour, 40, has a civic involvement with the community. He is president of the Ashford Place HOA, a neighborhood near Moontown Road and 186th Street.
“It’s a newer subdivision, so since we are a new HOA. That’s taken some time,” he said.
Latour also is the president-elect of the Westfield Youth Assistance Program and is helping plan the Oct. 1 Yellow Tie Gala.
Latour moved to Indiana in 2005. In 2014, he moved to Kansas City, Mo., to work for Sigma Tau Gamma. When the fraternity board moved its headquarters to Indianapolis, he moved to Westfield in 2018.
Latour wants to meet as many members as possible within the first 60 days of his new position.
“I just want to try to get out there and hear from folks and understand how they’re doing. Obviously, we are in this unprecedented pandemic, and I want to know how that’s impacting their business,” Latour said. “I’m interested in meeting with the small businesses, the large businesses. I want to meet with farmers that have companies here in Westfield. I want to meet with everybody I can, even the nonmembers of the chamber, to get a sense of where are they, how is Westfield weathering this storm we are in right now and what does it look like going forward, and what role can the chamber play helping to support everybody. Read more: CURRENT

The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 105th Annual Meeting Virtually

The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce held its 105th Annual Meeting and Community Awards this afternoon.  Instead of the usual friendly confines of the Monroe Convention Center, this year the Chamber took the proceedings to Zoom® with a new approach. 

“We’ve all heard this time and time again over the last 6 months, but this has been an unprecedented year for many reasons,” said Erin Predmore, President & CEO of the Chamber. “Here at the Chamber, we are glad that we have been able to be a resource for our members through this time, and we are so grateful to still have opportunities like our annual meeting to connect with you, even if only virtually.”

The virtual luncheon offered attendees an overview of The Chamber’s year, highlighted by their tireless work for the community during this pandemic.  However, the event was not just about looking back, but also emphasized expectations for the coming year. Erin Predmore, President & CEO, recapped events and news from 2020 and highlighted some of the new endeavors, based on local conditions, that the Chamber has taken on.  These included a frequently updated COVID resource website, a Back to Business Conference, Black-Owned Business Affinity Group, the distribution of community PPE, and leading the community in such endeavors as sending out Tiger Teams of experts to help small businesses and most recently spearheading the Hoosier Safe Six campaign.

“We stand by our motto of Better Business, Better Community always, especially in times like this when the business community needs support now more than ever,” said Erin Predmore.

Outgoing board chair and owner of FASTSIGNS of Bloomington, Mike Richardson, called the meeting to order, and noted his gratitude for the Chamber staff and his fellow board members during his time as chair. He also kicked off the Community Awards ceremony, honoring a variety of business owners and community leaders from the past year.

Richardson later officially passed the gavel to Cindy Kinnarney, the incoming board chair for the Chamber and the Regional President of German American Bank. Kinnarney presented the final awards for the afternoon and adjourned the annual meeting as her first action as board chair.

The Chamber recognized a number of honorees during the awards portion of the event. The 2020 Community Award honorees included:

• Ambassador of the Year – Pamela Boswell-Dike
• New Business of the Year – Consider It Done Transition Services
• Lloyd Olcott Community Service Award – Boys & Girls Clubs of Bloomington
• Success School Golden Key Award – Tom Figolah
• Nancy Howard Diversity Award – The Mill
• Community Anchor Award – Monroe County YMCA
• Morgan Hutton Visionary Award – Stride Coalition
• Diane Breeden-Lee Catalyst Award – Efrat Feferman
• Young Professional of the Year – Amanda Paikos
• Woman of the Year – Connie Ritchie
• Lifetime Achievement Award – Jack Harlow

The Chamber would like to extend a special thank you to the event sponsors and virtual table sponsors of the Annual Meeting. Event sponsors included Cook Group, Indiana University, IU Health Bloomington, The Herald Times, BKD CPA’s & Advisors, Bloomington Health Foundation, Bunger & Robertson, Cassady Electrical Contractors, The City of Bloomington, Duke Energy, German American Bank, Hoosier Energy, IU Credit Union, RE/MAX Acclaimed Properties, Rogers Group – Rogers Group Investments, and the Monroe County YMCA.

The Chamber would also like to recognize members at the Elite and Chairman levels – Cook Group, CFC Properties, IU Health Bloomington, IU Credit Union, Catalent Biologics, First Financial Bank, Indiana University, and Old National Bank – for their membership.

Additional photos and videos from the Annual Meeting and Community Awards may be found soon on the Chamber’s website – ChamberBloomington.org.

OneZone Partners With Bankable to Help Small Businesses

 The chamber of commerce for the cities of Carmel and Fishers is partnering with Anderson-based Bankable to provide assistance for small businesses. OneZone says the partnership will bring more awareness to a capital alternative for businesses that are not ready or able to qualify for traditional financing options.

Bankable and OneZone say their partnership is expected to streamline the process for small businesses to connect to Bankable and apply for financing.

“We are excited to partner with Bankable to provide our members with a resource to help grow their business," said Jack Russell, president at OneZone. "Bankable is a key part of our new small business hub and we believe that this partnership will add another piece of value to being a member of OneZone.”

Beyond lending, OneZone says Bankable’s GrowthReady program can offer many free services to borrowers that range from basic website design to business coaching.

“We believe that this partnership will allow both organizations to accelerate our support of small businesses during a time when entrepreneurs need every resource that we can pull together," said Adam Hoeksema, executive director at Bankable. "Together we hope to help more entrepreneurs get back to business and begin to thrive again.”

Bankable offers loans up to $250,000 for clients in need of capital who are unable to secure funds from a traditional bank. Read more: inside Indiana Business

New gateway entrances ahead for Terre Haute

New gateway entrances to Terre Haute, with lighting, and possibly with water features and plants, are among the first things Mayor Duke Bennett said can be accomplished under the “See You in Terre Haute 2025 Community Plan,” which is spearheaded by the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce.

Bennett and Union Health CEO Steve Holman serve as co-chairs of the 2025 community plan. They and Marla Flowers, the chamber’s director of community engagement, today gave the first update on the plan, which includes a new website featuring a dashboard listing progress.

“We’ve got some plans for I-70 and U.S. 41, some significant plans with lighting and landscaping, water feature and signage. What we do at Indiana 46, I don’t know yet, but [they] will compliment each other,” Bennett said, adding the chamber will be working with officials at Terre Haute Regional Airport.

“The gateways will be similar so they have that same appearance for the community. Then we will do that with some other entrances to the city, but those are the two primary points of contact for people, so we want those to be done first,” the mayor said.

“We will get the Indiana 46 and I-70 gateway done probably within the next year to two years for sure, without any question,” Bennett said.

The plan addresses six areas: economic development, quality of life, talent attraction, health and wellness and infrastructure. In addition, there are two supporting task forces, Community Development and Resource Development. Each is represented by two co-chairs made up of community and business leaders.

The Chamber of Commerce on Thursday launched a web site that contains a dashboard that provides updates on progress toward each of the plan’s goals. That website is terrehautechamber.com/seeyouinterrehaute.

Southeast Indiana Chamber Foundation Receives $250K Grant

The Southeast Indiana Chamber Foundation, a 501c3 sister organization of the Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce, on behalf of Dearborn County, has been awarded a $250,000 grant to establish a revolving loan fund designed to support small to medium sized businesses negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The grant is part of a $10.09-million federal aid package awarded by Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch and the Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs to 42 rural Hoosier communities through the COVID-19 Response Program.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our Hoosier economy and they have made considerable sacrifices during the COVID-19 crisis.” said Lt. Gov. Crouch “This funding will help Hoosier small businesses continue to recover and will help make investments necessary to create safer spaces for their customers and staff.”

Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Eric Kranz, added: “Our local communities have done a tremendous job coming together to mitigate the negative consequences of the pandemic. There has been so much collaboration and outreach over the last six months and it has been truly inspiring. At the Chamber, we’re excited to be able to contribute to these efforts through this grant which will make a profound difference to many of our local businesses.”

The $250,000 grant will also be supplemented with additional funds from the Dearborn County Chamber of Commerce, One Dearborn, the Civista Charitable Foundation and the Southeast Indiana Port Authority. With their help the fund will launch with a total loanable amount of $275,000.

Membership and Communications Director - The Bedford Chamber of Commerce - Bedford, IN - $37,500 - $45,000 a year

The Membership and Communications Directorfor Bedford Chamber of Commerce is responsible for the day-to-day member relationships, event planning, public relations, and other duties as delegated by the Chief Executive Officer. Most importantly, the Director assures the Vision, Mission, Goals, and Objectives of the Chamber are foremost in all Chamber business endeavors.

General

Administers and manages the activities related to the Chamber events (outlined below), supports communication with members and membership growth and other tasks that relate to the Mission and Goals of the Bedford Chamber.

Position Duties

Membership and Business Development

• Assist and Grow new members of the Bedford Chamber
• Assist members in projects and requests as necessary
• Interface with members
• Serve as the liaison for board and membership
• Communicate with members regularly
• Create opportunities to interact directly with members, soliciting their feedback on Chamber programs and ways to improve or increase member benefits

Event Planning

Work with relevant committees and Office Coordinator to maintain and plan effective programs, events, activities, and functions; including, but not limited to:

• Annual Dinner
• Golf Outing
• Board Retreat
• Job Fair
• Youth Leadership Academy
• Leadership Lawrence County
• Business After Hours
• Business Education Events

Communications & Public Relations

• Prepares releases for the media and keeps media informed of Chamber activities, events, programs, etc.
• Represents the Chamber in activities as approved by the CEO.
• Coordinate with City Hall to plan and oversee Ribbon Cuttings and special events
• Attends meetings pertinent to Chamber business
• Communicate with the Board on Chamber issues when necessary
• Oversee, develop, or create correspondence with the public and membership
• Develop messaging and technical delivery on the Chamber website, social media outlets, email, newsletters, etc.
• Ensures Chamber website is updated and accurate
• Prepares and coordinates the publication of the Chamber Advantage Cards and Chamber Director

KNOWLEDGE AND CHARACTER TRAITS

The Membership and Communications Director should be charismatic, self-guided, detail-oriented and people-driven. General knowledge of Bedford businesses and elected officials is valuable. A professional appearance and strong written and oral communication skills are a must.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Minimum High School diploma (or equivalent) with experience in customer-oriented sales or event planning roles.

Preferred: Postsecondary degree in marketing, communications, or public relations. Relevant experience in sales, event planning, or business development is desirable.

Salary and Benefits

Pay will be dependent on qualifications/experience. Expected salary range $37,500.00-45,000.00 plus incentives.

Benefits include paid holiday, sick leave, and vacation. Currently, there are no medical benefits.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $37,500.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Paid time off

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Company's website:

• www.bedfordchamber.com

Company's Facebook page:

• https://www.facebook.com/BedfordChamberOfCommerce

Benefit Conditions:

• Waiting period may apply
• Only full-time employees eligible

Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! 

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines 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 Assistance Requested. Thank you!