Arlington Heights chamber boss will also manage Palatine, Mount Prospect chambers
Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jon Ridler will also oversee the Mount Prospect and Palatine Area chambers in the new year as CEO of a new association management company.
But Ridler and other officials of the three chambers emphasized that they will remain separate organizations overseeing a trio of distinct business communities in the Northwest suburbs.
"Our respective communities need their own active and sustainable chambers to serve our business communities," Ridler said in a written statement. "This is not a merger, it is outsourcing operations, utilizing best practices, management experience and local investment to expand the value for each chamber member."
While hiring, training and coaching staff for the Mount Prospect and Palatine Area chambers as CEO of the new management company, Ridler will retain his position as executive director of the Arlington Heights chamber, according to its board Chairman Michael Mulder.
"Despite the challenges of the ongoing pandemic and its impact on our business community, the board of directors of the Arlington Heights Chamber of Commerce unanimously supported the proposal by Jon," Mulder said. "We truly believe in the additive value Jon can bring in his new role while still remaining a key asset to chamber members here in Arlington Heights,"
Leaders of the other two chamber boards also spoke of the value they saw for their organizations in the new arrangement.
"We are excited about this next chapter for the Mount Prospect Chamber of Commerce," Chairman Trisha Chokshi said. "Following extensive discussion amongst our board, our members, and our community, we felt this partnership approach was the best solution given ongoing uncertainty." Read more: Daily Herald
The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Announces Support for Michigan ReconnectNew program offers eligible adults an opportunity to earn a tuition-free degree
Lansing, Mich. - The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce announced today that it will serve as a Champion to support the Michigan Reconnect program unveiled Tuesday, Feb. 2, in Lansing by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to help address a widening skills gap within the state’s workforce.
Hundreds of leading Michigan business, community, and legislative leaders say Reconnect is what state employers need to alleviate the shortage of highly skilled and capable workers. “We believe Michigan Reconnect helps individuals and families pursue their dreams, and will build a strong economy that requires a talented and modern workforce to compete for future jobs,” said Tim Daman, president and CEO, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce.
As a Champion, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce will spread the word about the Michigan Reconnect program and the opportunities it provides eligible adults locally and statewide.
The program is specifically designed for residents who are 25 years or older and have obtained a high school diploma or equivalent. Michigan Reconnect will help pay tuition or training costs for eligible adults who want to pursue an associate degree or technical degree.
The program also offers skills scholarships to help cover tuition costs at more than 70 private training schools with 120 programs to earn certification in manufacturing, construction, information technology, health care, or business management.
To be eligible for Michigan Reconnect, adults must meet the following criteria:
• High school graduate or equivalent
• Michigan resident for at least one year
• Not yet completed a college degree (associate or bachelor’s)
The application and additional program information are available now at Michigan.gov/Reconnect, with enrollment in classes beginning May 2021.
The 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide
The 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to Greg Gaskins and the chamber team for their help and direction with this publication
Joliet Region Chamber: State of Your Business & Continuing Impact of COVID-19 Survey
Member survey to gather feedback on continuing issues, opportunities, and perceptions.
As we move forward during the pandemic and shifting political landscapes, please share your feedback so that we can best serve our membership.OK
1. To what extent has the pandemic impacted your organization?
Not at all
Low impact
Moderate impact
High impact
Other (please specify)
2. When operating without funding and under government restrictions, how long can your business operate?
1 to 2 months
3 to 6 months
More than 6 months, but less than a year
At least a year
Not negatively impacted
Other (please specify)
3. Have you applied for (or plan to apply for) funding assistance (check all that apply)?
Yes, SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL)
Yes, SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advance
Yes, CARES Act Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Round 1
Yes, PPP Round 2 (second draw)
Yes, State of Illinois Business Interruption Grant (BIG)
Yes, Will County CARES Business Assistance Grant
No
Other (please specify)
4. Do you foresee the need for additional assistance in the future after utilizing PPP, EIDL, State and County programs?
Yes
No
Other (please specify)
5. Have you had to lay off or furlough employees or plan to in the future?
Yes, lay off
Yes, furlough
Yes, combination of
No, but plan to lay off in next 3 to 6 months
No, but plan to furlough in next 3 to 6 months
No
6. Do you plan to hire back or hire new employees in the next 3 to 6 months?
Yes, hire back in next 3 to 6 months
Yes, hire new in next 3 to 6 months
Yes, combination of in the next 3 to 6 months
No
7. Have you been positively or negatively impacted by the rent/mortgage moratorium?
Yes, positively
Yes, negatively
Both - explain below
No
Comments
8. Has the increase in minimum wage to $11/hour on January 1st impacted your business?
Yes
No
Not sure yet
Comments
9. When do you foresee the economy "returning to normal?"
By end of second quarter 2021
By end of third quarter 2021
By end of the year 2021
By end of first quarter 2022
By end of second quarter 2022
By end of third quarter 2022
By end of year 2022
Sometime in 2023 and beyond
10. What are your feelings on the local economy in the near future vs. current status?
Much Better
Better
No change
Worse
Much worse
None of the above
11. Do you foresee your revenue increasing / decreasing in 2021 vs. 2020?
Increase
Decrease
Flat
Not sure
12. In your view is the pandemic ... ?
Worst is behind us
Currently in worst period
The worst is yet to come
Question Title
13. Is the current vaccination policy in place favorable to your business/employees?
Yes
No
Not sure
Other (please specify)
Question Title
14. What is your perception of the business climate in the Joliet / Will County region?
Very Favorable
Favorable
Unfavorable
Very Unfavorable
No Opinion
Other (please specify)
Question Title
15. What is your perception of the business climate in Illinois?
Very Favorable
Favorable
Unfavorable
Very Unfavorable
No Opinion
Other (please specify)
Question Title
16. What do you see being a larger hurdle right now?
Economy
Covid issues
Other (please specify)
Question Title
17. How can we assist you better / what support is needed?
Seminars / Workshops (specify below in comments)
Forums / Round table discussions (specify below in comments)
Advocate for pro-business policies (specify below in comments)
Develop councils and committees (specify below in comments)
Share more information through various communication methods (specify below in comments)
Additional marketing / advertising opportunities (specify below in comments)
Additional comments
Question Title
18. How concerned are you about the following?
Very concerned Concerned Somewhat concerned Not concerned at all Not sureHealthcare
Healthcare Very concerned
Healthcare Concerned
Healthcare Somewhat concerned
Healthcare Not concerned at all
Healthcare Not sure
Government Regulations
Government Regulations Very concerned
Government Regulations Concerned
Government Regulations Somewhat concerned
Government Regulations Not concerned at all
Government Regulations Not sure
Equity
Equity Very concerned
Equity Concerned
Equity Somewhat concerned
Equity Not concerned at all
Equity Not sure
Hiring New Employees
Hiring New Employees Very concerned
Hiring New Employees Concerned
Hiring New Employees Somewhat concerned
Hiring New Employees Not concerned at all
Hiring New Employees Not sure
Training Employees
Training Employees Very concerned
Training Employees Concerned
Training Employees Somewhat concerned
Training Employees Not concerned at all
Training Employees Not sure
Retaining Employees
Retaining Employees Very concerned
Retaining Employees Concerned
Retaining Employees Somewhat concerned
Retaining Employees Not concerned at all
Retaining Employees Not sure
Economic Climate
Economic Climate Very concerned
Economic Climate Concerned
Economic Climate Somewhat concerned
Economic Climate Not concerned at all
Economic Climate Not sure
Access to Capital
Access to Capital Very concerned
Access to Capital Concerned
Access to Capital Somewhat concerned
Access to Capital Not concerned at all
Access to Capital Not sure
Sales / Marketing
Sales / Marketing Very concerned
Sales / Marketing Concerned
Sales / Marketing Somewhat concerned
Sales / Marketing Not concerned at all
Sales / Marketing Not sure
Employee Issues (workers' comp, health ins., etc.)
Employee Issues (workers' comp, health ins., etc.) Very concerned
Employee Issues (workers' comp, health ins., etc.) Concerned
Employee Issues (workers' comp, health ins., etc.) Somewhat concerned
Employee Issues (workers' comp, health ins., etc.) Not concerned at all
Employee Issues (workers' comp, health ins., etc.) Not sure
Transportation
Transportation Very concerned
Transportation Concerned
Transportation Somewhat concerned
Transportation Not concerned at all
Transportation Not sure
Visibility in the Community
Visibility in the Community Very concerned
Visibility in the Community Concerned
Visibility in the Community Somewhat concerned
Visibility in the Community Not concerned at all
Visibility in the Community Not sure
Taxes (local, state, federal)
Taxes (local, state, federal) Very concerned
Taxes (local, state, federal) Concerned
Taxes (local, state, federal) Somewhat concerned
Taxes (local, state, federal) Not concerned at all
Taxes (local, state, federal) Not sure
Cash Flow
Cash Flow Very concerned
Cash Flow Concerned
Cash Flow Somewhat concerned
Cash Flow Not concerned at all
Cash Flow Not sure
Covid Issues
Covid Issues Very concerned
Covid Issues Concerned
Covid Issues Somewhat concerned
Covid Issues Not concerned at all
Covid Issues Not sure
Leadership Development
Leadership Development Very concerned
Leadership Development Concerned
Leadership Development Somewhat concerned
Leadership Development Not concerned at all
Leadership Development Not sure
Mortgage/Lease/Rent
Mortgage/Lease/Rent Very concerned
Mortgage/Lease/Rent Concerned
Mortgage/Lease/Rent Somewhat concerned
Mortgage/Lease/Rent Not concerned at all
Mortgage/Lease/Rent Not sure
Question Title
19. How do you as a business express your concerns to our political leaders at the local, state, or federal levels?
Through participation with the Joliet Chamber
By attending meetings/forums
By writing letters/emails
Through other advocacy organizations
Through personal relationships
Phone calls
All of the above
None of the above
Other (please specify)
Question Title
20. What is your job title?
Business Owner
President / CEO
Vice President
Manager
Sales / Marketing
Events
Finance
Other (please specify)
Question Title
21. How many people are employed at your organization?
1-10
11-25
26-50
51-100
101-250
251-500
500+
Question Title
22. How satisfied are you with your membership?
Very Unsatisfied Unsatisfied Neutral Satisfied Very Satisfied
Question Title
23. How likely is it that you would recommend joining our Chamber to a friend or colleague?
0 100
Question Title
24. Of the following, why did you join the Chamber (check all that apply)?
Networking
Seminars/Workshops
Business Opportunities
Community Support
Membership Drive
Advertising
Education Support
Sponsorship
Advocacy
None of the above
Other (please specify)
Question Title
25. Any additional comments, questions, etc. that you would like to share? If you would like to be contacted, please input your Name / Company / Phone / Email. Thank you!
More From Mike Paone: Joliet Region Chamber: 10 Things Your Small Business Can Outsource to Free Up Time
The number of self-employed workers in the U.S. has steadily grown in recent years, with as many as 44 million Americans falling into this category in 2019. Many of those self-employed workers run small businesses — a daunting task for a single person. However, many day-to-day tasks that used to cause headaches for business owners can now be outsourced by hiring other self-employed people or using technology.
Here are 10 things your small business can outsource to free up more time.
Appointments
When it comes to scheduling appointments and calls, the back-and-forth can take more time than it’s worth. Thankfully, several apps have been launched in the past few years that can help you streamline and track appointments. These applications, including Calendly and X.AI, can integrate with your calendar and send available time slots to people with whom you’re working. Best of all, it can help reschedule appointments if one party needs to cancel.
Bookkeeping and tax preparation
Most small business owners are not experts in accounting, bookkeeping and tax preparation. While bookkeeping has become significantly easier with software like FreshBooks, Intuit QuickBooks and Xero, it can still take quite a bit of time to do things like tracking finances and reconciling expenses. This is where it may help to outsource your general accounting needs with services such as Upwork and Bookminders.
Copywriting
When it comes to writing copy for your business’ website, blog posts, sales materials, or case studies, not every business owner has the time or creative juices to tackle this. However, copywriting remains a popular craft for small businesses to outsource. Online sites such as Contently, Freelancer and Scripted can all help you hire writers that can make your copy pop.
Graphic design
There’s no doubt that graphic design can be an incredibly challenging task for the average business owner. Whether it’s designing a logo, website, mobile app, advertisements, clothing or email templates, freelancers and agencies can be hired to get your designs quickly put together. Websites such as 99designs and Fiverr make it easy to connect with designers of all specialties from all over the world.
In-person shopping
While online shopping has drastically reduced how much time business owners need to spend out buying essentials, there are still some situations where in-person shopping is required. Thankfully, providers such as Instacart, Postmates and Shipt can send someone local to a nearby store to buy groceries, electronics, office supplies or just about anything.
IT management
Small business owners, especially those who are running things solo, should seriously consider outsourcing information technology services given how complex some IT needs are. Services such as website and database management, software and hardware support and data analysis are often best left to those with particular skills. Business owners can look in their local markets for IT providers or use sites like Upwork and Guru to find freelancers.
Personal styling
While “figuring out what to wear” might not top the list of pressing tasks for business owners, it’s undoubtedly an essential part of presenting yourself — especially for in-person and online sales meetings. Hiring a personal stylist can help you come up with better outfits and save you time on finding appropriate and affordable clothes to buy. Online services such as Stitch Fix and Nordstrom Trunk Club can provide personalized recommendations and send clothes to you directly in order to reduce how much time you spend on shopping.
Reception
The simple act of answering a phone call can be incredibly disruptive when you’re trying to focus. With this in mind, solo business owners could consider hiring a virtual receptionist to take calls and flag important issues or opportunities. Web services, including My Receptionist and Ruby, can assign virtual receptionists that can answer your calls 24 hours a day to make sure your customers and prospects are best served.
Social media marketing
While social media remains a vital way to connect with current and potential customers, the amount of time needed to create content and engage with online communities can be prohibitively high. Given this, it may be worth hiring a freelance social media manager or agency to write and manage all of your social posts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok and Twitter. Services such as Upwork and Guru can let you hire social media marketers and managers at hourly rates.
Virtual assistant
Finally, one of the top things every solo business owner should consider is a virtual assistant for outsourcing tasks unrelated to managing your business. A virtual assistant can help you manage your calendar more efficiently and help you coordinate and track your projects with other freelancers. Services such as Assistant Match, Time Etc and Zirtual can connect you with potential virtual assistants.
ACCE: Chamber of the Year Webinar This Week
Does your chamber have what it takes to compete for the most coveted award in the industry? Make 2021 the year you apply for ACCE's Chamber of the Year competition, sponsored by MemberClicks. The qualifying round is now underway. Join our February 4 webinar to learn more about the competition, get helpful information about the application process and hear about the new program elements.
Muskego Area 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 Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Muskego Area Chamber 2020 Community Resource Guide and Business Directory
Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
Oxford Lafayette County Chamber: Job search, training, support, and resources available though a Partnership with FlexJobs & the Oxford-Lafayette County Economic Development Foundation
WHO SHOULD CONSIDER REMOTE WORKING?
Anyone looking for flexible, career-oriented jobs
People who live in rural or local areas where limited jobs in their career field would otherwise require them to relocate.
People with physical or health issues wanting/needing to find flexible work or remote jobs to suit their needs
Caretakers of loved ones with health issues , for the same reasons as above.
Retirees looking to stay professionally active and to earn some income.
Military spouses who need the flexibility to work from anywhere, in case their spouses are re-stationed.
Parents wanting to be more flexible for their kids and families.
And anyone else who would appreciate a job that better fits with their life, not a life that fits with their job!
New Castle Henry County Chamber of Commerce Chamber Annual Awards 2020 Heroes of Henry County – Call for Photos
The New Castle Henry County Chamber of Commerce (Chamber) has proudly presented annual awards to Citizen of the Year and Business of the Year for many years. Due to COVID-19 the awards were put on hold in March of 2020 with the plan to present when the restrictions were lifted.
Entering into 2021 The NCHC Chamber has come to realize that the restrictions may not be lifted for quite some time. Therefore, the 2019 Citizen and Business of the Year awards will be presented online on Tuesday, March 16, 2021.
The Henry County communities came together and pivoted in response to the virus in 2020. The Chamber wants to celebrate the good and recognize the struggles of as many as possible. In lieu of the two 2020 awards the Chamber will pay tribute to all the great people and businesses of Henry County in a presentation “2020 Heores of Henry County” which will follow the Awards presentation on March 16th.
The Chamber calls for photos/videos of Henry County in 2020. This may be frontline workers, medical workers, window visits, yard signs, deliveries, and anything else that says 2020. Both members and non-members of the Chamber may submit photos/videos. Deadline to submit is Monday, February 22, 2021
To submit photos/videos for this tribute please visit www.nchcchamber.com. Please read the details on the website before submitting.
Questions should be directed to the Chamber office at 765-529-5210 or shonda@nchcchamber.com
Valparaiso Chamber: Message from President Rex Richards
Dear Valpo Chamber Members: |
Fulton County Minute report from Executive Director Jillian Smith
Welcome Chamber Members and Friends,
I was reviewing the Chamber's strategic initiatives earlier this month to make sure our daily activities align with our goals. I'd like to share those initiatives with you...
1) Business Success: Connect, grow, and strengthen business
This month we have had the opportunity to recognize three businesses with awards (highlighted later in this Business Minute). We also facilitated several referrals, including shopping and dining opportunities for a group of ladies meeting up in Rochester, attorneys and CPAs to local businesspeople, and travel agents to those who are looking to get away for a few days! We also received and distributed a couple resumes for individuals looking for a career change.
2) Build Business Advocacy: Champion a positive business environment
This month we hosted our first of three legislative breakfasts. If you have not had the opportunity to view the virtual event with Indiana State Legislators, you can access the recording on our Facebook page. Our next breakfast is scheduled for Saturday, February 13th at 8:00 am.
3) Grow and Retain Partnerships: Enhance value and increase ROI
This month we have represented the business community on the Tourism Commission, the Rochester Downtown Partnership Organization Board and Design Committee, as co-chair of Fulton Economic Development's Small Business Committee, and as a participant in several phone calls and virtual meetings to strengthen Fulton County and our business community. We increased awareness of our great county with an article in Travel Indiana Magazine and by distributing brochures and information guides to office visitors.
I'll quickly share our last three strategic initiatives (since I am close to a deadline!):
4) Organizational Value: Align initiatives with member needs
5) Financial Sustainability: Ensure the future sustainability of the Chamber
6) Active Board: Develop a strong and engaged Board of Directors who are passionate about the Chamber and are committed to sharing this with business partners
We spoke with dozens of members this month and look forward to hearing from more of you! Please do not hesitate to call, email, or stop by to say hi!
I will quickly leave you with one more resource: Click HERE to view the Indiana Department of Revenue Tax Handbook for New and Small Business Owners, published September 2020.
Thank you for your support and involvement in Fulton County,
Jillian Smith
Executive Director
Fulton County Chamber of Commerce
AD on the WMC Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce morning digest newsletter:
|
Majority of Southside residents support Mountain Valley Pipeline, new poll finds
An independent polling company conducted a recent survey that found the majority of Southside residents support the construction and completion of the Mountain Valley Pipeline, the natural gas pipeline with a southern terminus slated at the Transco compression station in Chatham.
The survey, conducted by Mason-Dixon Polling & Strategy out of North Florida, involved 625 registered Virginian voters interviewed via telephone. The Virginians span all demographic categories through a random selection process that FiveThirtyEight ranks as almost completely unbiased with a below-par simple average error.
Southside Virginia, composing one of six major regions of the commonwealth designated in the poll, pledged support for completion of the MVP by a margin of 57 percent, with an additional 11 percent undecided.
The margin for error, according to standards customarily used by statisticians, is no more than ± 4 percentage points. This means that there is a 95 percent probability that the "true" figure would fall within that range if all voters were surveyed. The margin for error is higher for any subgroup, such as a gender or age grouping.
“Mountain Valley Pipeline is important for our region’s future. As indicated by these latest survey results, most people agree,” said Joyce Waugh, president and CEO of the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce. “This critical infrastructure will play a significant role in helping to position Virginia’s Blue Ridge Region to recruit and retain employers.”
Respondents in the December 2020 poll were prompted with the following question: “The proposed Mountain Valley Pipeline would transport natural gas underground from West Virginia to Virginia to help meet the demand for energy in homes and businesses in various regions of Virginia and the southeastern United States. Do you support or oppose construction and operation of the Mountain Valley Pipeline?” Read more: Chatham Star-Tribune
Lake County Chamber: Ready to File 2020 Taxes? Here's What You Need to Know
Are you ready to file 2020 taxes? The IRS will not begin processing tax returns until February 12, 2021 due to major changes to the tax law passed in December, stimulus checks, and coronavirus aid, among other things. Grab your lunch and join us for an opportunity to learn more about these changes an how they can possibly increase your rate of return.
Location:
On ZOOM - Registration Required
ZOOM link will be sent to registrants on Tue., Feb. 10
Date/Time Information: Thursday, February 11, 2021
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Members - FREE
Non-Members - $10
|
|
|
|
Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce President's Message: Congratulations Conquer Award Recipients!
BACC proudly celebrated our 2021 Conquer Award Recipients last Thursday during our virtual Conquer Awards Ceremony. Congratulations to Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, AMITA Health, Barrington Transportation Company, Barrington Youth & Family Services, L.A.N. Office Furnishings, Neoteca, and The Club at Wynstone. You can hear their heartfelt stories on navigating the pandemic on our Youtube channel: CLICK HERE to view the program.
Many thanks to our Conquer Awards sponsors for helping fund our virtual programming: Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Barrington Bank & Trust, Marquardt of Barrington Buick GMC, and GK Real Estate. Thank you to all those who supported our Virtual Silent Auction bidding that night. Our fundraising benefits programming for small business and Main Street Retailers and our Lauren Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund.
We've hit the year running. Our new Board Leadership and Diplomats Council is now in place. Watch our Conquer Awards programming to meet our new 2021 leaders. Many thanks to all of them for their hundreds of hours of volunteer time serving our BACC membership and the Barrington area business community.
BACC and it's leadership is dedicated to providing programming and opportunities that impact the prosperity and quality of life in our communities. Let's Conquer 2021 Together!-- Suzanne Corr, BACC President/CEO.
Carbondale Chamber: Great Chamber Email Ad for Bank that costs $35
Fox Valley Chambers Boot Camp Series: Tik Tok for Business
Date:
February 4, 2021
Time:
09:00 AM - 10:00 AM CST
Website:
To Register
Location:
Zoom Presentation
Contact: Patti Anselme
Email: patti@bataviachamber.org
Date/Time Details: February 4, 2021
9:00am
Fees/Admission: $10.00 to attend
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Community Map
The Eau Claire Area Chamber Community Map is now available at the Chamber today! Thanks to David Minor, Chrystal Mills and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Northern Virginia business groups still navigating way out of pandemic
Leaders of local business organizations say they will continue in the new year to help local companies overcome with pandemic-related challenges.
“All of our actions and policies in 2021 are about putting people back to work, ensuring a strong talent pipeline for businesses to grow and ensuring that the amazing and diverse workforce in our region accelerates the coming economic recovery,” said Julie Coons, president and CEO of he Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce.
Two key factors in that success formula: vaccinating the public and continuing to invest in ways that help companies build, attract and retain skilled talent, Coons said. The chamber in 2021 also will urge that governmental resources be applied to education at all levels, as well as key workforce-development programs in Virginia, she said.
“We will also remain focused on ensuring policy makers don’t lose sight of medium- and long-term goals such as transportation, taxes/regulations and the cost of doing business,” Coons said.
The chamber’s 2021 legislative agenda urges Gov. Northam to use his emergency powers to implement health remedies – such as contact tracing, rapid testing, social distancing and mask usage – but only restrict people’s movement and close down large numbers of businesses rapidly if those health measures fail.
Chamber officials also hope that Virginia’s temporary workplace-safety standards, adopted during the pandemic, will expire when governor lifts his emergency declaration. The organization’s legislative package asks General Assembly members to create a process that better engages with stakeholders when such rules are being promulgated.
The chamber’s legislative agenda also supports funding for a dedicated relief program for rents and mortgages, but opposes new eviction moratoria, which would “only serve to exacerbate the problem without providing lasting relief to tenants or landlords.”
Elsewhere in Northern Virginia, 2021 plans for the Vienna Business Association (VBA) and Greater Merrifield Business Association (GMBA) still are up in the air because of the pandemic, said Peggy James, who serves as executive director of both organizations.
“We will have exciting stuff coming up at both [groups], but nothing is set in stone right now,” she said. “We do have big plans for 2021 and we will continue to support our members the best way possible.”
One key VBA priority will be lining up sponsors for Oktoberfest and holding the event in some form this year. The pandemic forced the cancellation of last fall’s event.
“Even if it needs to be socially distanced, we’re not going to go for two years” without holding Oktoberfest, James said.
VBA leaders aim to return to a normal schedule as much and as soon as possible, James said. The organization picked up 30 new members last year, she said. That success mirrors 2020 membership gains by a rival organization, the Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce.
“It’s pretty shocking. We’ve had a really good year,” James said. “We want to give people the best bang for their buck.”
VBA will continue to forge ahead this spring the way it has throughout the pandemic, with programs promoting businesses, including not only member companies but those that do not belong to the association as well, James said.
GMBA, however, did not fare as well last year, James said. Unlike Vienna, a long-established town, Merrifield only in recent years has seen an explosion of mixed-use growth.
“They don’t have the community over there like Vienna has a community,” James said of GMBA. “We have had no new members all year long, so we are struggling . . . We are planning for spring and looking for ways to engage the community. We are improving our e-mail content and doing short articles on different businesses around Merrifield.”
Because of the pandemic, James said, the new autonomous shuttle bus in Merrifield can only have four passengers (including the driver, who is being carried while the pilot project is underway).
“I haven’t seen a lot of people on it, but it’s great,” she said. “It just runs all the time.”
James urged the public to continue supporting local restaurants, especially through the winter months, when outdoor dining’s appeal diminishes.
“January and February are going to be brutal on restaurants,” she said. “Doing curbside pickup and stuff like that is so critical and will save a restaurant.”
Vienna benefits from an active “foodies” group that promotes local restaurants, but Merrifield does not have a similar organization, James said.
“There have been lots of really great restaurants that have gone under,” she said. “I hate to see that happen.” Read more: NOVAEastern Shore of Virginia Chamber of Commerce Names New Marketing And Membership Director
The Eastern Shore of Virginia Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the hiring of Sarah Barban as Marketing and Membership Director. She will be responsible for promoting chamber members through social media, email marketing and the chamber website. She will also work to attract new members and to serve the chamber’s current membership. In addition, she’ll assist with advertising sales for the chamber’s print publications.
“We are very excited to welcome Sarah onboard,” Chamber’s Executive Director, Robie Marsh, stated. “She comes to the Chamber with invaluable expertise in content management, digital marketing, and branding that will truly benefit our Chamber Members in a time when it is needed most. We look forward to seeing all of the wonderful things she will be unveiling to help our ESVA businesses recover from this pandemic, as well as to build resiliency for the future.”
Barban grew up in Nassawadox and graduated from Virginia Wesleyan University with a degree in communications in 2012. She began her career as a reporter in Dover, Delaware, but couldn’t resist the peace and quiet of home. She returned in 2014 to join the Eastern Shore Tourism Commission as a Content Producer, launching her marketing career. Through the years, she has continued to hone her skills as a marketer, working in the hospitality industry and freelancing for several local businesses. Barban got married in 2018 and lives in Onancock with her husband, Levi and their corgi, Ellie.
She loves many things about the Eastern Shore, including kayaking on Onancock Creek, Corner Bakery donuts and the abundance of natural beauty.
She’s looking forward to serving the business community on the Eastern Shore and building new relationships.
The ESVA Chamber’s mission is to serve, promote, and connect the businesses and communities of the Eastern Shore. For more information on the Chamber, its members, or joining the Chamber, visit them online at www.esvachamber.org or in person at 19056 Parkway in Melfa. Sarah can be reached at marketing@esvachamber.org or (757) 787-2460.
757 Chamber Alliance: A unified voice among Hampton Roads chambers
By BRYAN K. STEPHENS
Mission Statement: The 757 Chamber Alliance facilitates regional economic prosperity, growth, vitality, and greater strength in shaping public policy related to regional business issues and quality of life.
The 757 Chamber Alliance was founded in the spring of 2017 by a group of chamber executives from throughout Hampton Roads to create a platform for chambers to come together on business issues. Comprising the Chamber Alliance are the Hampton Roads Chamber, Eastern Shore of Virginia Chamber of Commerce, Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Williamsburg Business Council, Isle of Wight-Smithfield-Windsor Chamber of Commerce, and Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.
The 757 Chamber Alliance truly exemplifies the power of collective impact. A major reason the alliance was established was to serve as a vehicle through which all six chambers could collectively and collaboratively help influence legislation that will benefit the region’s 50,000-plus businesses.
For this reason, the 757 Chamber Alliance has been meeting to establish its 2021 General Assembly Legislative priorities. We have unanimously agreed on the 16 legislative priorities listed below.
The 757 Chamber Alliance supports:
• Maintaining Virginia’s “right-to-work” law, which is the fifth oldest statute in the United States. This law guarantees that no person can be compelled, as a condition of employment, to join or not to join, nor to pay dues to a labor union. Virginia’s economic competitiveness rests upon this statute remaining unabridged.
• Protecting the Dillon Rule. Virginia is a “Dillon Rule” state. The Dillon Rule says a municipality may only engage in an activity if the state government specifically sanctions it. This rule protects businesses from a patchwork of inconsistent policies and regulations from one jurisdiction to another.
• Legislation establishing liability protections intended to protect businesses from the threat of unfounded lawsuits.
• GO Virginia and funding initiatives that promote policies to improve the region’s business climate and economic competitiveness.
• International trade in the commonwealth and infrastructure investments to grow the port’s capacity to increase channel depth, width, and safety (“Wider, Deeper, Safer”).
• Programs and initiatives designed to set the conditions that foster the startup of new businesses and sustain time-tested enterprises while providing an environment that promotes business growth.
• Funding the expansion of rail service to the Hampton Roads region, connecting directly to Richmond and protecting the state’s dedicated passenger rail funding.
• State funding of mega-sites and other sites located throughout the region, consistent with and supporting regional economic development strategies.
• A proactive approach to protecting our existing military assets by advocating for a strong federal defense budget and creating the conditions locally that support the military and their families.
• Efforts to elevate recurrent flooding as a regional issue. Recurrent flooding is a significant issue in Hampton Roads (second in the nation to New Orleans).
• Efforts to increase student awareness and exposure to vocational and apprenticeship training to develop a strong and reliable skilled workforce.
• Early education programs and other educational initiatives to ensure that our students are prepared for employment in the 21st century.
• Increased state funding to the Virginia Tourism Corp. and increased investment in tourism innovation and expansion.
• Promoting the replacement of displaced and lost conventional fossil-fuel surface ships in Hampton Roads to avoid any possible loss of economic vitality in the region.
• Efforts to preserve the Certificate of Public Need Program to protect hospitals’ ability to provide medical services to all, promote quality care, and provide a full range of essential health services.
• The General Assembly maintaining policies that enable local regulation of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb.
The 757 Chamber Alliance recognizes the importance of providing a favorable business climate and how it affects our economic future. We look forward to working with all stakeholders, the General Assembly, and Gov. Ralph Northam’s administration to help bring greater economic prosperity to the region and the commonwealth.
Bryan K. Stephens is president and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber.
President's Message Elmhurst Chamber: Paycheck Protection Program for the Elmhurst Chamber
My personal thanks to our friends at Community Bank of Elmhurst for their assistance in securing a federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) forgiveness-eligible loan worth $39,750 for our Chamber, which has remained fully staffed and operational throughout the Pandemic.
The $900 billion Emergency Coronavirus Relief Act of December 27 provides for financial relief of small businesses and not-for-profit (NFP) organizations—including the expansion of PPP eligibility to previously-excluded chambers of commerce, business and trade associations and other 501(c)(6) NFPs—plus assistance to the hospitality industry (see report on Tourism).
Of the $325 billion appropriated for small businesses and NFPs, $284 billion is for first and second rounds of forgiveness-eligible PPP loans, and increases individual loans from 250 percent to 350 percent of average monthly payroll for restaurants and hotels. Also, the relief package features a simplified forgiveness application for PPP loans under $150,000.
Carol Stream Chamber: Frazzled?
“We get so beat down by what we need, sometimes we forget how to want. Living is about want, my brother. You have to learn to want again. You’ve got to let yourself want.”
“Want? No want in me,” Gifford insisted.
“That’s the whole point. If you start wanting, it makes your brain work better. If all you do is think about what you need, you’re no better than an animal in the woods, and no smarter either. To be human, you’ve got to want. It makes you smarter and stronger.”
Dan Groat, Monarchs and Mendicants
We’ve been told all our lives to focus on our needs and not on our wants.
Just maybe that’s all backwards.
We work at a job that we need so we can pay the bills. Is that living or just surviving? How long can duty and responsibility keep getting us out of bed in the morning?
We need to get in shape. Translation: “Whenever I happen to have extra time and extra energy at exactly the same moment, I’ll go to the gym.”
We put back the shoes and tell ourselves, “I don’t need those.” So, we buy the more practical pair and feel just a little diminished each time we put them on.
Sure, as children we often wanted to do things that we were too immature to know would turn out badly. And every toy we saw on Saturday morning TV we just had to have. Even when we got older, we indulged in wants that got us into trouble.
So, as adults we still have this idea that we should deny our desires.
But the problem wasn’t with the desires. The problem was with our childish, naïve lack of awareness of our true desires and our misguided strategy to fulfill those desires.
We may not even know anymore what we want, because we are so focused on what we need to do, what we need to be, or what we need to get.
But that is the wrong solution.
We don’t want too much. We’re willing to settle for too little. We’re not living. We’re surviving. We’re like an animal in the woods.
The solution is to become more aware of what we really want. Deep down our desires are rooted in something good and worthwhile. And when we pursue our desires without guilt and without apology, motivation is not an issue.
We have to learn to want again.
—Rod Pickett
5 STAR Chamber: Sauk Valley Area Chamber: Membership Dues Plus Program Recognition
We would like to give special recognition to the following groups who provide extra support to the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. This extra effort and support is truly appreciated. If you have the opportunity to express your sincere appreciation to these members, please do so!
Investing over $1000 in Dues
CGH Medical Center
Community State Bank
Farmers National Bank - Morrison
Midland States Bank
Sauk Valley Bank
Select Employees Credit Union
Sterling Federal Bank
US Bank
Wahl Clipper Corp.
Wal-Mart DC #7024
Ward, Murray, Pace & Johnson
150% Club Members
Allstate Insurance Agency
Amazing Grace of Sterling
Green Bee Energy Efficiency
Happy Tails Humane Society
Illinois American Water
James S Ferris, DDS, PC
Lance's Plumbing
LK Design Source
Mattox Insurance Agency
Moore Monument & Granite Co
Sterling Rock Falls Child Care
The Spa At Central Park
Wiggins Communication Technology
110% Members
Cassens Drainage
Central Heating & Cooling
Compeer Financial
Folsom’s Bakery
Hawkins-Cassens Insurance, LLC
Imprintable Memories
Kiwanis Club of Sterling
Mertes & Mertes
New Millenium Directories
Reitzel Roofing Company
Rock River Lumber & Grain
Rock River Ready Mix
Rosemeyer Management Group
Sauk Valley Foodbank
Scholl Insurance Agency
Schuneman Insurance Agency
Showplace Antiques & Treasures
Simply Hair Studios
St. Mary's School
Sterling Chevrolet
Sterling Commercial Roofing
Sterling Optimist Club
The Cornerstone Agency, Inc.
Wendler Engineering Services, Inc.
Willy’s Restaurant
Job Openings in #ChamberWorld:
Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce President, Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce, Columbus, NE --- From $70,000 a year
Qualifications
Bachelor's (Preferred)
economic, community, and business development or related: 6 years (Preferred)
Spanish (Preferred)
Driver's License (Preferred)
We are all suffering from a severe case of cabin but fear not: the NR Chamber has the perfect remedy for this affliction: The best solution---
the 8th Annual Cabin Fever Classic!
Join us for the largest pub crawl in Western WI.
This bar hopping event will be held Saturday February 20th and we would love for you and a team to join us this year!
$140 per team of 4 Golfers and 1 Sober Caddy includes Golf, Dinner and Prizes!
Prizes are awarded to the team with the best costumes and the team with the lowest score!
Click here to register your team now!
The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce recently awarded $5,000 in education grants through its Excellence in Education Grant Program to four schools across the region – three Pike County schools and one school in Magoffin County.
Jordan Gibson, president and CEO of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber, said the Chamber’s Excellence in Education Grant Program is an important investment because it gives educators access to additional funding and resources that can be used for the betterment of the students they serve, noting that this grant cycle is particularly important due to the increased need for technology as teachers and students are finding ways to connect remotely during the covid-19 pandemic.
“We are grateful to give back to the educators who are going above and beyond to educate our children, especially this year when educators are in need of more technology to bridge the gap with their students,” said Gibson.
Dorton Elementary School (Pike County), Herald Whitaker Middle School (Magoffin County), Mullins Elementary School (Pike County), and Shelby Valley High School (Pike County) were among those to receive education grants from the Chamber.
Dorton Elementary Library Media Specialist Rebecca Bowling received $1,250 to provide students with eBooks to promote reading remotely. Bowling said that due to covid-19, students have been learning remotely and have been unable to check out books from the school’s library, noting that students have already read most of the digital books offered through the school.
Herald Whitaker Middle School Assistant Principal Jessica Prater received $1,250 for a 3D printer and supplies, which she hopes will give students the chance to “bring their creations to life” while promoting science, visual arts, and creativity.
Mullins Elementary Curriculum Coach and Title One and Building Assessment Coordinator Rachel Branham received $1,250 to purchase computers for students to use at home for remote learning, noting that the school has loaned out all available laptops with some students still in need.
Shelby Valley High Educator Zelda Hall received $1,250 for experiential advanced placement (AP) calculus tools and materials. Hall said students will be able to perform lab investigations to gain a better understanding of calculus concepts and will prepare them for future study in the field.
“The purchase of this equipment will not only impact the educational experience of this year’s students but will also impact the education of our students for many years to come,” said Hall.
The Chamber’s Excellence in Education Grant Program funds approximately $5,000 in educational projects annually in schools in the eight counties the Chamber serves: Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, and Pike. Since its inception, more than $65,000 has been awarded through the education grant program. Each school can only receive one grant per grant cycle and must wait two grant cycles to receive another grant.
“Each year, the Chamber looks forward to presenting these education grants to the dedicated educators of this region,” said Gibson. “We are honored to be able to give back to those educators and the students who are the future of this region.”
For more information about the Chamber’s Excellence in Education Grant program, visit the Chamber online at www.sekchamber.com, or by phone at 606.432.5504.
Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.