Chamber of Commerce Daily News

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Thursday, October 29, 2020

From Jenn Kinne, Farmville Chamber: Governor Northam Invites Small Businesses and Nonprofits to Apply for Up to $100,000 from Rebuild VA Grant Fund; Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce President's Message: Don't Be Afraid to Quit; New Arrival: Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2020-2021; Clinton Chamber Businesses: Sign-up available NOW for HOLIDAY HAPPENING! SIGN-UP DEADLINE IS THIS FRIDAY! Lori Hunt named new Coldwater Area Chamber Executive Director; WELCOME HOME - The Nation's Premier New Resident Marketing Program for Your Chamber Members; Chamber news photo: Plymouth Downtown Planters Thank You Mums Sponsors; Covington County Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Greater Owensboro Chamber Announces Staffing Restructure; Shop Local; Portage County Business Council Supports Local Holiday Shopping; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

Presented by Town Square Publications

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

From Jenn Kinne, Farmville Chamber: Governor Northam Invites Small Businesses and Nonprofits to Apply for Up to $100,000 from Rebuild VA Grant Fund

Program allotted additional $30 million, eligibility expanded

Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Rebuild VA, a grant program to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, will expand eligibility criteria and increase the amount of grant money businesses receive.

Rebuild VA launched in August with $70 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Governor Northam is directing an additional $30 million to support the expansion of the program. Businesses with less than $10 million in gross revenue or fewer than 250 employees will be eligible under the new criteria, and the maximum grant award will increase from $10,000 to $100,000.

“We started Rebuild VA to help small businesses and nonprofit organizations navigate the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Governor Northam. “These changes to the program will ensure that we can provide additional financial assistance to even more Virginians so they can weather this public health crisis and emerge stronger.”

Rebuild VA will now be open to all types of Virginia small businesses that meet size and other eligibility requirements, from restaurants and summer camps, to farmers and retail shops. Businesses that previously received a Rebuild VA grant will receive a second award correlated with the updated guidelines.

Rebuild VA is administered by the Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) in partnership with the Department of Housing and Community Development and the Virginia Tourism Corporation, and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. Eligible businesses and nonprofits must demonstrate that their normal operations were limited by Governor Northam’s Executive Orders Fifty-Three or Fifty-Five, or that they were directly impacted by the closure of such businesses. In September, the program expanded eligibility to supply chain partners of businesses whose normal operations were impacted by the pandemic.

Rebuild VA funding may be utilized for the following eligible expenses:
Payroll support, including paid sick, medical, or family leave, and costs related to the continuation of group health care benefits during those periods of leave;
Employee salaries;
Mortgage payments, rent, and utilities;
Principal and interest payments for any business loans from national or state-chartered banking, savings and loan institutions, or credit unions, that were incurred before or during the emergency;
Eligible personal protective equipment, cleaning and disinfecting materials, or other working capital needed to address COVID-19 response.

For additional information about Rebuild VA and how to submit an application, please visit governor.virginia.gov/RebuildVA.

Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce President's Message: Don't Be Afraid to Quit

Growing up we have heard this reference repeatedly from parents, coaches, friends, teachers, and others: "Don't be a quitter!" "Quitting is for losers!"

As we start our planning for 2021, quitting may actually be a winning strategy. We have been operating in an alternate reality during 2020. Everything we had planned, everything we have normally done year after year has completely gone out the window.

The pandemic has been a crisis, but it brings opportunity for those willing to get creative. It's time to reimagine, redesign, relaunch. Take a look at the things you have normally done, always done, done just because, and truly ask, "Why?" Is it effective? Is it financially successful? Does it align with your mission? Does it bring value to you and your customers? If not, it may be time to quit!

Many of us are looking forward, planning for 2021. Turn everything on an angle and look at it differently. Get rid of the fluff. Consider whether it's time to kill some of the sacred cows - those events and activities that pop up every year because that's the way it has always been, because no one dares touch it.

What is most exciting about looking ahead, is the chance to wipe the slate clean and innovate. We don't know where the COVID finish line is, but that doesn't mean we can't be winners. --
Suzanne Corr, BACC President/CEO.

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 ADP 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.

Clinton Chamber Businesses: Sign-up available NOW for HOLIDAY HAPPENING! SIGN-UP DEADLINE IS THIS FRIDAY!

Don’t miss out on signing up for a great opportunity to get a jumpstart to the holidays! Customers will get a chance to shop early and easily with local businesses during the Holiday Happening retail open house event before the holiday rush. Holiday Happening is scheduled for Sunday, November 15th from 1 to 5 p.m. Businesses interested in participating in the event, please register by Friday, October 16th deadline via the form below!

HOLIDAY HAPPENING 2020 BUSINESS PARTICIPATION FORM

Lori Hunt named new Coldwater Area Chamber Executive Director

The Coldwater Area Chamber of Commerce announced on Wednesday that Lori Hunt has been chosen as their new Executive Director.

She was one of 19 applicants for the job. Hunt will be taking over from Cayden Sparks as Chamber Director. Her first official day will be August 10.

Hunt’s background includes experience in public relations, project management, marketing, human resources and strategic planning.

She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from Purdue University and has an extensive professional background.

You can email her at Lori@coldwaterchamber.com or call her at (517) 278-5985.

You can also visit her at the Chamber during office hours which are weekdays from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m... Read more: WTVB AM

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.

Chamber news photo: Plymouth Downtown Planters Thank You Mums Sponsors

Thank you Marshall County Museum, Visit Marshall County, WTCA am 1050, Ren & Beverly Van Gilder, MAX 98.3, Vickie Talcott and The Floor Store or sponsoring mums for the planters this fall.

Covington County Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Covington County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Covington County Chamber today! Thanks to Marie Shoemake and her team for their help and direction putting this together!

Covington County 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.

Greater Owensboro Chamber Announces Staffing Restructure

Owensboro, Kentucky – The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce a recent restructuring which includes both new and returning faces.

Shelly Nichols has been appointed to the position of Chamber Vice President. Nichols, a University of Kentucky graduate, relocated to Owensboro in 2006 from Columbus Ohio. During her time in Owensboro, she has worked in community initiatives for the Public Life Foundation managing community projects such as America Speaks, Downtown Placemaking and other engagement initiatives. Nichols has also led OASIS and worked with New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services. As Vice President, Nichols will continue guiding membership programs and development and will also spend significant time on community engagement and member services.

Hannah Thurman has been named Director of Talent Programs, Communications and Events. She will also serve as the Executive Director of Leadership Owensboro, the Chamber’s hallmark talent development program. Teachers in the Workplace, Community Campus and Chamber Young Professionals are other programs that Thurman will direct and manage. Thurman has been with the Chamber team since 2019. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Western Kentucky University and has previously held positions at WKU as well as Green River Distilling Co.

Martha Michael has been named Communications and Events Coordinator. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Georgia and comes to Owensboro from Spain where she worked a language and cultural assistant.

“The Chamber has acted as a talent incubator for Owensboro for decades. The organization continues to attract the best and brightest people who are interested in serving our community. They sharpen their skills here and move on to continue their career and their community leadership trajectory,” said Candance Castlen Brake, Chamber President and CEO. “Jaclyn Graves leaving to lead the Greater Owensboro Realtors Association and Jessica Kirk taking a position with corporate leader Boardwalk Pipelines embodies this role of the Chamber.”

Shop Local; Portage County Business Council Supports Local Holiday Shopping

In Portage County, 83% of businesses have nineteen or fewer employees. Small businesses are central in central Wisconsin and the entrepreneurial spirit is strong. With Small Business Saturday right around the corner, the Portage County Business Council (PCBC) is putting a special emphasis on local shopping and supporting small business. PCBC supports businesses of any size but recognizes that in this pandemic small, local businesses need an extra boost.

PCBC will be launching our annual Elf on the Shelf “Jolly Biz the Membership Elf” promotion on November 1st. We had 36 spots to fill but with an overwhelming response from member businesses, we decided to offer the promotion on weekends and over Thanksgiving to allow greater participation for a total of 53 member businesses! Jolly will be appearing on our Facebook page daily from November 1st through December 23rd. Correctly guess his location and win a prize donated by that business. This contest is a popular and lighthearted way for businesses to gain extra recognition on PCBC’s social media channels.

PCBC is also partnering with 88.5 FM The Family to promote our gift certificate program. With many businesses not having holiday parties and the desire to promote shopping local, anyone can come to the PCBC office or most area banks to buy Portage County gift certificates of various denominations. PCBC does this as a service to local businesses and we make no profit off of their sale. Listen to 88.5 FM to learn more.

“We are a thriving entrepreneurial community with lots of support for our businesses and now more than ever we need to give back to them. Many of these same businesses support your child’s sport or school or non-profit (including PCBC), so get out in-person or online and support them.” shared Todd Kuckkahn, Portage County Business Council Executive Director.

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!

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

Effingham County Chamber of Commerce has been named 2020 Chamber of the Year by ACCE; Grand Rapids Area Chamber: COVID-19 Liability Legislation Sent to Governor Whitmer; Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce: Registration closes Thursday Oct. 15 for our 5th Annual Sporting Clays Outing; Indiana Chamber to Hold Top Industry Events Virtually in October; Greater Reston Chamber: 2020 Fall Membership Campaign; Mississippi public universities help to rebuild economy as state recovers from COVID-19; Shorewood Chamber President Carol Wagner set to Retire; Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry: A Very Full Schedule; #BestChamber Practices: Mclean County Chamber: Meet Your Chamber Ambassador Team; Mayfield/Graves County Chamber of Commerce Holds Bluegrass Nutrition Ribbon Cutting; 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!

Effingham County Chamber of Commerce has been named 2020 Chamber of the Year by ACCE

The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce has been named 2020 Chamber of the Year by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). The award is the most prestigious and competitive recognition presented by ACCE and is the only globally-recognized industry award that honors top chambers of commerce.

The Chamber of the Year award recognizes the leadership role chambers have in their communities. Those recognized demonstrate organizational strength and make an impact on key community priorities.

The Effingham County Chamber was recognized September 30 during ACCE’s Future of Chambers Summit.

“Receiving this award is an unbelievable honor and is due to the dedication and work of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, volunteer teams and professional staff to make sure the Chamber meets the needs of our growing membership as well as building and strengthening relationships that stimulate the regional economy. This award is especially meaningful this year as we have had to transition our programs and services for stronger support of our local businesses as they endured the many hardships that the coronavirus pandemic has caused”, said Chamber President & CEO Norma Lansing.

2020 Chamber Board Chairman commented: “What does hard work, teamwork, a great membership and the desire to just be better get you? Chamber of the Year for the entire United States and Canada! Congratulations to Norma, Becky and Jamie for their hard work, and thank you to our membership for being so involved.” Speer noted that every year the Chamber solicits volunteers from the local community and we have a great volunteer team. Please call the Chamber and see how you can get involved.

Four chambers were recognized as Chamber of the Year recipient based on community demographics and on factors including net revenue, net assets, membership account retention, and membership dollar retention. Other winners were Vail Valley Partnership (Colo.); Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership (Fla.) and Tulsa Regional Chamber (Okla.).

Watch Thank You Video

Grand Rapids Area Chamber: COVID-19 Liability Legislation Sent to Governor Whitmer

It was a busy day in the Michigan Legislature that included a flurry of COVID-19 related legislation being passed very early this morning.

Most notably, the Michigan Legislature approved legislation that expanded unemployment benefits and created COVID-19 liability protections for businesses after reaching a deal with Governor Whitmer.

The Michigan Supreme Court Order that invalidated post-April 30 Executive Orders means the Legislature needed to act to extend unemployment benefits to 26 weeks and continue protections for employees quarantining due to COVID-19. The liability protections, which have been a priority for the Grand Rapids Chamber, were previously held up, but a deal was able to be struck between leaders to approve both measures after some tweaks.

A summary of the legislation can be found here.

The liability protections protects businesses that are in compliance with all federal, state and local requirements from being held liable if someone believes they contacted COVID-19 at the business. Special thanks to Kent County Representatives Tommy Brann and Thomas Albert for sponsoring this important legislation, and to the other West Michigan legislators who co-sponsored and supported the bills.

Also included were protection for employers from unemployment insurance charges. Benefits paid to those laid off will not be charged to the account of an employer. This expires on December 31, 2020.

Other legislation passed yesterday included prohibiting the firing of an employee who stays home with concerns they have COVID-19, and allowing public meetings to continue meeting virtually until January 1.

Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce: Registration closes Thursday Oct. 15 for our 5th Annual Sporting Clays Outing

Saturday, October 17, 2020
11:30 am to 4:30 pm
The Highlands Sportsmen's Club
N3041 County Road F, Cascade, Wisconsin

Spend a fall afternoon participating in this fun outdoor event!

Final Chance to Register

REGISTER NOW

Individual Registration: $100 | Foursome Registration: $400

Participant fee includes lunch, one round of sporting clays, including the "flurry" tower station, two boxes of shells, and a beverage ticket to use at the adjacent SoLu Estate Winery after clay shooting.

Guest Lunch-Only Registration:$25 per person.

Bring along your spouse, family, friends and associates. Guests are welcome to join the luncheon and afterwards enjoy the winery patio and beautiful grounds or walk along to the stations.

Register by Thursday, October 15th

Schedule:

11:30 am - Registration & Lunch
1:00 pm - Safety Overview and Clay Stations
After Clays: Networking, Refreshments, Raffle & Prizes

Indiana Chamber to Hold Top Industry Events Virtually in October

Two leading industry events take place virtually this month from the Indiana Chamber of Commerce. On October 13, compliance and regulatory topics are center stage at the 2020 Indiana Environmental Conference, which is held in partnership with the Indiana Department of Environmental Management. Two weeks later, on October 28-29, the 2020 Indiana Business Tax Conference highlights new federal and state information.

“In the virtual format, attendees can access all education sessions live and/or later at their own pace from the comfort of their own home or office. Also important for these industries is that a variety of continuing education credits will be available,” says Indiana Chamber President Kevin Brinegar.

Both agendas are designed to help an organization “be prepared and avoid expensive fines for not being up to date, as well as take into account issues related to the pandemic and challenges expected in the coming year.”

The Indiana Environmental Conference, sponsored by Plews Shadley Racher & Braun, includes sessions on changes to the Clean Water Act, inspection tips, legal matters related to COVID-19 and current advantages of solar, storage and sustainability.

The all new program at the Indiana Business Tax Conference features a number of tax matters. Among them: challenges of the mobile workforce, making sense of state tax and economic development incentives, how to leverage the power of data, the cost of performance and the latest tax and legal issues impacting tech and innovation businesses.

Both conferences cost $399 per person for Indiana Chamber members; the list price is $499. A 20% group discount is available for organizations sending two or more employees to either event. Register to attend at www.indianachamber.com/conferences.

Additional sponsors for the Indiana Environmental Conference are: BCA Environmental Consultants, LLC; Ice Miller LLP; Kahn, Dees, Donovan & Kahn, LLP; SESCO Group; Taft Law; and Trinity Consultants.

The Indiana Business Tax Conference sponsors are: DMA – DuCharme, McMillen & Associates, Inc.; Dentons Bingham Greenebaum; Indiana Michigan Power; and MCM CPAs & Advisors.

Greater Reston Chamber: 2020 Fall Membership Campaign

Our Fall 2020 Membership Campaign ends this week on Friday, October 16, 2020!

For companies trying to find their way forward in these tumultuous times, the stability of enduring relationships formed with the chamber and its members can help companies with their path forward. Are there companies that you think can benefit from chamber membership?

For our members, the Fall Campaign has promotional opportunities to help you get your business and services in front of new members that join during the campaign. There is also a referral bonus for any member that refers someone that joins the chamber. For more details on these call Sharon Slavin.

To read more about the 2020 Fall Membership Campaign, click here.

Mississippi public universities help to rebuild economy as state recovers from COVID-19

Mississippi public universities are doing everything they can to help rebuild the state of Mississippi’s economy as it recovers from the impact of COVID-19.

Staff and faculty members are developing organizations, creating marketing plans and ensuring that the community is adapting to the “new normal.”

Here’s how the universities are doing their part for the community:

Jackson State University’s College of Health Sciences, along with the School of Public Health, is partnering with the CDC to develop a yearlong marketing campaign aimed at reducing and preventing the disproportionate rate of COVID-19 transmissions among African Americans ages 18-29. Additionally, JSU’s Division of Research and Economic Development has unveiled a program called EnRICH (Engaging Research and Innovators for Commercialization at HBCUs). EnRICH aims to impact equity, diversity and inclusion in innovations and train faculty and students to critically evaluate the commercial potential of new health care innovations. Also, it will train them to conduct market assessments, help support intellectual property protection, and teach them about the commercialization development process in an established startup accelerator program.

Mississippi State University and its College of Business have partnered with the Mississippi Small Business Development Center to produce and provide a nine-part video series aimed at helping family-owned companies and establishments navigate the pandemic and economic disruption. Covering a wide variety of COVID-19 topics, the videos address the survival, growth and sustainability of these businesses and the special needs of owners in adapting to the “new normal.”

University of Mississippi created the Community-University Partnership Series for campus and community leaders to explore partnerships in supply drives and fundraisers, meeting technology needs, and providing volunteer and internship opportunities. The university’s Office of Community Engagement is doing this in partnership with UM Economic Development, the LOU Chamber of Commerce, Lafayette Oxford Foundation for Tomorrow, United Way of Oxford-Lafayette County, Mississippi Alliance for Nonprofits and Philanthropy, and Volunteer Mississippi. Additionally, the Mississippi Small Business Development Center, whose state office is housed at UM, is providing counseling about federal and state business stimulus programs and assisting entrepreneurs obtain loans and other funding.

This summer, The University of Southern Mississippi’s National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) published the first version of “COVID-19 Considerations for Sport and Entertainment Venues and Events.” It was composed by a select group of industry practitioners on the NCS4′s COVID-19 Task Force, the guide is designed to aid professionals in their decision-making regarding event planning, event operations and other business operations based on federal, state and local municipal requirements. Read more: WLOX

Shorewood Chamber President Carol Wagner set to Retire

Carol Wagner has led Chamber since 2015

Carol Wagner, President of the Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce, recently announced to the Board of Directors her desire to retire from the Shorewood Chamber of Commerce.

“I have enjoyed my time at the SACC, but I am ready to enjoy traveling a bit more and retirement," said Wagner. "I am willing to stay on and help ensure a successful transition and I will volunteer to Chair the Shorewood Crossroads Festival."

"Carol has truly left her mark on our community and we are very grateful for her years of service," Adam Underhill, Chair of the Board said. "It speaks volumes to her integrity that she would be willing to stay on board and facilitate the Chamber’s largest fundraiser in 2021."

Wagner has made many contributions to the Shorewood Chamber including being named One of the Best Business to Business organizations in the 2017 and 2019 Herald News Reader's Choice Awards as well as the Shorewood Crossroads Fest being named as One of the Best festivals in 2017. She also launched several membership events to encourage business involvement including Denim and Diamonds, the Shorewood Scoot 5k and the recent First Swing Golf Outing.

Wagner also helped Chamber members navigate the COVID-19 Pandemic serving as a resource for grants, marketing ideas, and ensured the Membership remained connected and informed with local, regional and state opportunities, mandates, and other safety measures.

"The Board of Directors deeply appreciates the work Carol has done in fostering positive relationships with our business community, Village and the residents of Shorewood," Underhill said. "She has built wonderful relationships in the Will County area and has positioned us for success moving forward.

The Shorewood Chamber has assembled a team to oversee the hiring process and, with Wagner's assistance, will ensure a seamless change of leadership.

Jefferson County Chamber: Shop Small/Shop Southern Illinois

Chamber members,
For the last couple years we have participated with other Southern Illinois Chambers on a Shop Small/Shop Southern Illinois campaign. Last year we took over Facebook making shop local and shop small posts. Each Chamber was given a week and at the end of the week a gift basket was awarded to someone in Southern Illinois. This year we are going to be participating again. We ask that you remember to like and share our posts on Facebook. We will also be giving out another gift basket and would like to have some gift cards, certificates, and marketing materials to add into the basket. If you would like to participate in our Shop Small/Shop Southern Illinois campaign and donate an item please let us know.

Thank you,

Laura Horn
Membership Relations
Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce

Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce & Industry: A Very Full Schedule

Virtual Leadership Series - $20.00 per Session
Session 2 – Tuesday, October 13th
Topic "Marketing and Customer Service"

Session 3 – Tuesday, October 20th
Topic "Ergonomics and Health in the Workplace"

Session 4 – Tuesday, October 27th
Topic “Team Building Techniques”

Tuesday, October 20th - 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. - Webinar
Join us to learn about the facts, figures and myths surrounding the Graduated Income Tax Constitutional Amendment which is on the November Ballot in Illinois.
SPEAKERS:
Opponent - Todd Maisch, President & CEO, Illinois State Chamber
Proponent - Sean Denny, Director of Government Relations Association
Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions of each speaker and our moderators

Tuesday, October 20th - 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Networking After Hours – $5.00
Self-Help Closet & Food Pantry- IN PERSON
769 Holiday Lane, Des Plaines

Wednesday, October 21st – 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Social Impact Virtual Non Profit Meeting – $7.00
“Marketing with Meaning” How to talk clearly about your Organization

Tuesday, October 27th – 11:30 a.m.– 1:00 p.m.
Women in Business “Power Hour” - $7.00 – IN PERSON
AMITA Holy Family Medical Center, 100 N. River Rd, Des Plaines
Tour of Women’s Imaging Center, lunch and networking

Register for these events online at www.dpchamber.com
or call Chamber Office at 847-824-4200 or email afriedman@dpchamber.com

#BestChamber Practices: Mclean County Chamber: Meet Your Chamber Ambassador Team

Say hello to Tracy Patkunas!
RE/MAX Rising

What has the Chamber done for you & your business?

"I have been a Chamber Ambassador for almost 15 years and have met some AWESOME people!! The Chamber has given me the opportunity to engage with new businesses in the community and also connect with existing businesses at the various networking events. Being a Realtor I am always promoting our community so I love hearing daily about all the amazing things McLean County has to offer."

What's one fun fact about you?

"I play the piano and I grew up on a dairy farm."

Carbondale Chamber: Get up to Speed!

Get up to speed on SIU Automotive Technology next Tuesday, Oct. 20th at the SIU Transportation Education Center!

Seating is limited for our first in-person luncheon since March!

Registration is required and payment must be made at the time of registration.

We ask guests to follow appropriate safety guidelines by wearing a mask and social distancing.

A boxed lunch from McAlister's will be provided.

Kay Rial Bates resigns from McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce effective Dec. 31

Kay Rial Bates on Wednesday announced her resignation as president of the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce, effective Dec. 31, after 25 years serving the local business community.

In a letter shared with the Northwest Herald, Rial Bates said she would continue to serve as the McHenry County Board member representing District 4, a seat for which she running for re-election uncontested in the November election.

District 4 covers most of McHenry Township, and all of Richmond and Burton townships, and includes all or most of McHenry, Richmond, Spring Grove, Johnsburg, Fox Lake, Ringwood, McCullom Lake, Wonder Lake and Bull Valley.

"I consider myself privileged, because I have been fortunate to have worked beside so many committed and dedicated professionals who have made my years a joy," Rial Bates said in the letter.

"I will still be with these folks, though, as I stay committed to my first love, small businesses, through serving on McHenry County Board. Yet I am excited, because I believe that some of the chamber's best years are ahead of us," she continued. Read more: Northwest Herald

Mayfield/Graves County Chamber of Commerce Holds Bluegrass Nutrition Ribbon Cutting

On Wednesday, October 14, the Mayfield/Graves County Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting ceremony to officially welcome Bluegrass Nutrition to the Chamber. “We are so happy we chose Mayfield as the location for our business. The community has been nothing but supportive, especially during these most unusual times, and we truly appreciate that.” said owner Elizabeth Whitmore.

Bluegrass Nutrition is located at 305 Wyatt Drive in Mayfield, KY, and open Monday thru Friday from 7 am – 5 pm, Saturday from 8 am – 2 pm, and Sunday from Noon – 4 pm. Whether you are looking for hydration, replenished electrolytes, antioxidants or clean energy – there are shakes and teas for everyone, and best of all, they deliver!

For more information, call Bluegrass Nutrition at 270.970.8177 or visit their Facebook page for regular specials.

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

Saturday, October 10, 2020

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld - Special Report - Week of Oct. 12 President/CEO Harlingen Chamber of Commerce - Harlingen, TX 78550 - From $70,000 a year; Executive Director - Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce - Monmouth, IL; Membership Development Manager- Michigan Chamber of Commerce - Lansing, MI; Manager, Diversity & Inclusion Strategies- Greater Louisville Inc., Louisville, KY; Member Services Coordinator- Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Ottawa, IL;

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

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld - Special Report - Week of Oct. 12

President/CEO Harlingen Chamber of Commerce - Harlingen, TX 78550 - From $70,000 a year

Qualifications

- Bachelor's (Required)
- Microsoft Office: 1 year (Preferred)
- Administrative Experience: 1 year (Preferred)

Full Job Description

President / CEO - Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce

President / CEO - Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce

President / CEO
Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce

311 E. Tyler Ave.
Harlingen, Texas 78550
United States

POSITION DESCRIPTION:

Basic Function:
*Responsible for guiding the corporate affairs of the Chamber
*Determining how to achieve the objectives and carry out policy positions of the Chamber
*Setting and implementing long and short-range objectives, including forecasting the economic and political environment in which the Chamber will be operating
*Directing, managing and leading the Chamber management team that implements the various programs, overseeing the daily activities of the Chamber and its committees.
*Making recommendations to the Board of Directors and political leadership that will support the goals and objectives of the Chamber
*Represent Chamber through continuous contact with membership, outside individuals, public agencies and officials, various organizations

Supervision: Oversees all of corporate staff; interviews applicants and approves hiring decisions; ensures proper training; directs all tasks and work plans; participates in planning and scheduling management responsibilities; conducts performance evaluations and salary reviews

External Contacts: Frequent contact with state, national and international political and civic leaders, public agencies and officials, and various organizations and groups with the general public

Internal Contacts: Frequent contact with Chamber personnel and with the Board of Directors

Experience: 3-5 years of experience in chamber management preferred. Must possess computer skills and strong analytical skills. Excellent interpersonal and communications skills are required.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS:

Submit resume and cover letter no later than September 30, 2020, by mail or email. Attention: Dr. Bonnie D. Villarreal (Board Chair), 802 South Loop 499, Suite 1, Harlingen, Texas 78550. Send resume and cover letter attention: Dr. Bonnie D. Villarreal.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Health insurance
Paid time off

Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Weekends

COVID-19 considerations:
Resumes are recommended vs. walk-in/in-person

Education:

Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

Economic Development Director - City of Del Ray Beach, Florida - Full-time - $67,100.80 - $107,369.60 Annually

Category: Planning and Development / Redevelopment / Community Development / Economic Development / Business
Department: City Manager

Veterans' Preference Applies

**Pay can be commensurate with qualifications and experience**

EEO Statement

The City of Delray Beach does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age or disability, marital status, family status or sexual orientation in employment or the provision of services

Non-Smoking
The City of Delray Beach is a Non-Tobacco Workplace. The City will not consider applicants who have used tobacco or nicotine products for a period of at least three months prior to application for employment. The definition of "tobacco or nicotine products" includes but is not limited to, cigarettes, cigars, chewing tobacco, pipes, snuff, e-cigarettes and nicotine patches or gum.

Under general direction of the Delray Beach CRA Executive Director with specific direction of the City Manager, the Economic Development Director plans and implements business and economic development programs and strategies for the City and the Community Redevelopment Agency, with particular emphasis on the downtown and other business corridors within the City. Duties Include establishing and implementing business attraction and retention strategies, incentive programs, marketing, and workforce development. Work is performed at a highly professional level with a high degree of independence and initiative.

Essential Job Duties

The following duties are normal for this position. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the classification if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment for this classification. Other duties may be required and assigned.

General:

Work with the Community Redevelopment Agency, the Chamber President, the Chamber's Economic Development Committee, City government and elected officials; and all appropriate County agencies to formulate, recommend and carry out policies relative to business development, retention and enhancement strategies and programs in the CRA district and identified business districts within the City.
Coordinate with other agencies and organizations such as the Business Development Board, Workforce Alliance, etc. on regional economic development activities as well as working with other appropriate government agencies, bankers, real estate and commercial brokers acting as a liaison to facilitate productive interactions with the City of Delray Beach.

Prepare reports and make appropriate monthly and annual status presentations to CRA, Chamber, City and others as necessary.

Compile databases and relevant planning and economic information regarding housing, retail, industrial, and office development activity;
Direct the implementation of the Economic Development Programs outlined in the CRA Plan.

Business Recruiting, Retention and Expansion:

Meet, confer and provide detailed information to new businesses contemplating a relocation or expansion into Delray Beach

Assist private developers and business owners with site planning, zoning, platting, variances, incentives and other regulatory issues associated with redevelopment and economic development;
Represent the City with outside agencies or private developers and other interested parties.

Meet, confer and provide detailed information to new businesses contemplating a relocation or expansion into Delray Beach.

Entrepreneurial and Small Business Development:

Develop strategies to attract entrepreneurs and promote the development of innovation oriented companies in Delray Beach
Identify potential resources for the development of Innovation Businesses
Participate with other public and private entities on the creation of business incubation programs
Promote Public-Private partnerships to provide support and resources to start-ups

Economic Development Marketing and Attraction:

Provide supervision and support to the Economic Development Manager in order to fulfill the CRA's Economic Development Programs within the CRA Plan, including developing strategies, identifying the community competitive advantages, targeting industries, identifying prospects, and using marketing tools.
Assist in the marketing and negotiations for development of CRA-owned properties
Serve as a resource for the public, including the development community, businesses, property owners, community organizations and make public presentations to help educate local residents, the business community, and City of Delray Beach staff about the benefits of a planned economic development effort.
Respond to inquiries regarding economic data, trends and resources such as industrial and commercial development opportunities.

Assist in the writing of new zoning regulations as conditions change in the development environment;
Prepare developer and tenant real estate packages, including Requests for Proposals that provide site information, demographics, photographs, surveys, environmental information, and more to use in attracting tenants and developers;

Economic Development Finance:

Review and process applications for the various CRA Economic Incentive Programs
Write, justify and budget for annual requests for CRA and City funding for economic development to include private sector fund raising though the Chamber of Commerce to support Delray's economic development marketing plans and overall economic development efforts.
Review financial data submitted in relation to development proposals utilizing CRA properties.
Perform other related duties as assigned.
Perform all functions and responsibilities according to the, Palm Beach County Code of Ethics and Florida State Statutes 112.313.
Fosters positive employee relations and employee morale on a City-wide basis.

Monmouth Chamber Board of Directors Seeking New Executive Director

The Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors and hiring committee are searching for an individual to fill the Executive Director position. Hiring committee member Sean Cavanaugh highlights what the job entails and qualities the committee is looking for:

“Anyone knowing the Monmouth area can already understand what that position entails. Clearly there are the monthly luncheons, trying to gain new members and membership retention, and several other activities throughout the year they are involved in. They have a golf outing, Market Alley Music Days, working with Baconfest, being able to communicate with people and communicate ideas, and have a positive mental attitude. Attributes such as that would all be attractive to the hiring committee. Certain amount of ambition that a person has is helpful as well because the Chamber of Commerce thrives on its’ membership. The more members there are, the better they can serve the community because they will have more resources,” Cavanaugh states.

Full Job Description

OVERVIEW:

The Director of the Monmouth Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a representative of the community and its business members to provide leadership in the fulfillment of the Chamber’s mission by developing effective strategies towards a successful and financially stable future while engaging existing businesses, assisting with new economic development and engaging with the community to sponsor and develop events.

SKILLS:

The Director should be a highly motivated individual with excellent leadership, organizational, communication (both oral and written) and technology skills to promote business retention, business growth and community events.

General Duties:

– Organize and implement programs and events that serve the Chamber of Commerce and the Community

– Encourage and promote special projects which foster economic growth and the betterment of the Monmouth community

– Manage Chamber finances and prepare/report to the Board of the Chamber

– Recruit and retain Chamber members

– Initiate press coverage relating to Chamber and community events

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