Quadrant to Add 200 Full-Time Jobs in Louisville with New $95 Million-Plus Magnet Manufacturing Facility; South Bend Regional Chamber: 2021 State Legislative Priorities; Muncie Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Hires Rowray as New President and CEO; Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce certifies Baisch Engineering as Gold-level Employee Friendly Workplace; Prince William Chamber of Commerce Announces 2022 Business Awards Nominees; Crossroads Chambers: Promote Your Business: 2022 Corporate Sponsorships Available; Top 2021 Story: Indy Chamber Recognized as ACCE Chamber of the Year; Waterloo Chamber Community Service Award Nomination Application; Eurofins Genomics to Construct New Facility in Louisville; J.C. Watts to Headline Chamber Day Dinner February 15; #BestChamber practices: Website Information: Be the "go-to" Resource! #BestChamber Practices: Members for Life - Help your Members market themselves by utilizing co-op advertising funds; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directories and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

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Quadrant to Add 200 Full-Time Jobs in Louisville with New $95 Million-Plus Magnet Manufacturing Facility

Rare-earth magnets will be used in EV motors and other applications

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Jan. 28, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear announced Quadrant will build a new $95 million-plus rare-earth magnet manufacturing operation in Louisville, its first mass production facility in the U.S., which will create 200 full-time jobs for Kentuckians.

“As electric vehicle production continues to ramp up across the automotive sector, we will continue to see growth of EV-related companies in the commonwealth,” Gov. Beshear said. “This investment and job creation will position Quadrant to capitalize on a burgeoning market, and I am thrilled to welcome the company’s growth in Kentucky.”

Quadrant, which has operated an engineering, machining and assembly hub in Louisville since 2001, will construct a 171,000-square-foot, rare-earth magnet manufacturing operation. It will be the company’s first production facility in the U.S. The new location builds on the company’s goal to build a world-class magnetics, manufacturing and research campus and positions the company and community as leaders in attracting a critical and innovative industry back to the U.S.

Rare-earth magnets are a type of permanent magnet made from alloys of rare-earth elements produced by Quadrant for use in electric vehicle motors and other automotive applications, consumer electronics, and within the medical, alternative energy and appliance industries, among others.

The construction of this state-of-the-art manufacturing campus, known as Project NeoGrass by Quadrant leaders, positions the industry for further growth in the U.S.

“We believe Project NeoGrass is the blueprint that the magnetics industry and our customers need,” said Michael Brand, president of Quadrant. “It is a revitalization of rare-earth manufacturing and research and development in the U.S.”

Founded in 1992, Quadrant is headquartered in San Diego, California, with operations in the U.S., Australia, China, Germany, Japan, South Korea and Vietnam. The company also operates a research, prototyping and testing facility in Silicon Valley. Quadrant works with high-tech companies from concept to mass production of magnet-related products, including material selection, engineering and design services and prototype development.

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer said the project positions the community for future growth.

“We are excited about this major commitment from Quadrant to establish a research and manufacturing campus around advanced technologies here in Louisville,” Mayor Fischer said. “As we look at the future of automotive manufacturing, this investment continues to solidify the Louisville region as a national hub for EV technology and positions our city for the future of technology.”

LG&E and KU President John R. Crockett III said the utility provider is proud to be a partner in creating economic growth in the area.

“LG&E and KU are proud to be the energy provider of Quadrant’ facilities in Jeffersontown,” Crockett said. “Our partnerships with our customers, Louisville Forward and the Cabinet for Economic Development are important to the growth and well-being of Greater Louisville. We join Gov. Beshear and Mayor Fisher in celebrating Quadrant’s expansion and enhanced commitment in our community.”

South Bend Regional Chamber: 2021 State Legislative Priorities Senate Bill 164 was officially filed in Indy to potentially increase our innkeepers tax rate in St. Joseph County from 6% to 8%. The full text can be found here. A summary of the bill can be found here. In essence, this bill is intended to focus entirely on product development to drive more overnight visitation and related visitor spending in St. Joseph County. A few details about this proposal: The Hotel-Motel Tax Board formed a revenue enhancement committee at their August meeting to determine if pursuing an increase in the tax rate was worthwhile. In 2019, our statute was amended to dedicate 1% of our 6% to be allocated to the development of a Mishawaka Sports Complex and for capital improvements at Potawatomi Zoo. Also in 2019, both Fort Wayne (Allen County) and Kokomo (Howard County) increased their innkeepers tax rate to 8%. As of now, Indy, Fort Wayne and Evansville all have an innkeepers tax rate of at least 8%. Additionally, Kokomo, Plainfield and Terre Haute are also at the 8% level. So, all cities/municipalities larger than SB in Indiana are already at 8% and other cities/municipalities are also at this level. See more: SBRC Legislative Priorities     Muncie Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Hires Rowray as New President and CEO   The Boards of Directors of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and the Delaware Advancement Corporation have announced that Elizabeth Rowray has accepted the position as the next President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce and the Chief Economic Development Officer of the Delaware Advancement Corporation. Rowray is currently the Executive Director of Ivy Tech’s Career Coaching and Connections program for the Delaware and Henry County locations. She is also the District 35 Representative to the Indiana House of Representatives, elected in 2020. Rowray has previously worked for the Delaware Advancement Corporation, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, DC. Rowray is a graduate of Ball State University and Muncie Burris High School. She completed the four-year U.S. Chamber of Commerce Organization Management program with an IOM Designation. Rowray has been an active volunteer in the Muncie and Delaware County communities, including the Yorktown School Board, Muncie Rotary, and the United Way. She has been a past recipient of an Athena Award, presented by Women in Business Unlimited. She has also served on various fund-raising efforts, including the Muncie Children’s Museum and the Ball Memorial Hospital Foundation. A search committee was formed in 2021 and included Board members from both the Chamber of Commerce and the Delaware Advancement Corporation. The search committee Co-Chairs were Kelly Shrock, President of the Community Foundation of Muncie and Delaware County, and Terry Pence, Vice President of Operations at IU Ball Memorial Hospital. Additional committee members included Sara Shade Hamilton, Frank Scott, Carl Kizer, Sherry Riggin, Stephen Brand, and Rob Keisling. The committee was assisted in a national search by Smith and Syberg, an Indianapolis executive search firm. Shrock commented, “We are extremely excited to have Elizabeth lead our Chamber and Economic Development organizations. Her experience, leadership, and passion for Muncie and Delaware County will be valuable assets to the community going forward.” Pence added, “In the course of conducting a national search, we reviewed candidates from across the country as well as in Indiana and Muncie. Our search committee and directors are pleased that we found the best person right here in our own community.” Rowray’s anticipated start date is April 1, 2022. Source: Muncie Journal Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce certifies Baisch Engineering as Gold-level Employee Friendly Workplace   FOX CITIES, Wis. – (January 27, 2022) – Baisch Engineering has been certified as a 2022 gold-level Employee Friendly Workplace in the Fox Cities by the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce.  The Chamber’s Employee Friendly Workplace initiative program strive to engage, educate and encourage the adoption of more employee friendly workplace practices and policies by Fox Cities employers, to enhance work/life integration and successfully attract and retain the best employees in the region. There are four levels of certification an employee can achieve – Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum – with Gold-certified employers such as Baisch recognized as community leaders who promote work/life integration by making significant investments in employee-friendly policies and practices.  According to Eric Eisenhauer, Baisch Corporate Director, “Being Gold Certified as an Employee Friendly Workplace confirms what our existing employees already know; Baisch is a great place to work! Baisch understands it is our staff is who make our company a success, and while we work hard, we also have a family atmosphere that provides an enjoyable work experience.” He highlighted some of the generous benefits and perks they offer employees that helped them achieve Gold-level certification: ·         100% Employer paid family insurance premiums option ·         Flexible work environment including in office, hybrid or remote options ·         Matching charitable contributions ·         Volunteer Time Off  Baisch officially announced its achievement on January 26 with a special internal ceremony. Watch a video of the announcement at https://youtu.be/6pTQshpHcaM  To date the Chamber has certified six other companies as being employee friendly. Eric Broten, Director of Business Retention and Expansion at the Chamber, explained how the certification works: “We rate employers in four major categories: Paid Leave and Flexible Work Schedules, Health and Wellness Support, Financial Support and Perks. Employers are then given a score and if qualified, rank as Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum.”  He continued: “As we reviewed the application Baisch sent in, their generous benefits and perks definitely stood out as going above and beyond, offering benefits and policies that promote work/life integration and strive to meet the diverse needs of their employees. We are thrilled to welcome Baisch Engineering as our newest Employee Friendly Workplace certified employer!”  Overall, the Chamber’s Employee Friendly Workplace certification encourages policies and practices that foster a supportive work environment to improve employee engagement and encourage employee loyalty. A commitment to employee friendliness creates an environment in the Fox Cities that attracts and retains the best employees for the region. Certification is open to all employers with operations located in the Fox Cites (Calumet, Outagamie and northern Winnebago Counties). The comprehensive benefit criteria incorporated into the application is intended to be attainable as well as aspirational for employers of any size across all industry sectors.  To learn more about the Fox Cities Employee Friendly Workplace initiative or view a list of all certified companies, visit http://foxcitieschamber.com/employee-friendly-workplace. Prince William Chamber of Commerce Announces 2022 Business Awards Nominees   On Thursday, February 24, the Chamber will celebrate 12 years of Excellence in Business for Prince William, Manassas, and Manassas Park!  Enjoy a black tie optional evening out and recognize the business leaders of our local community of innovation, community involvement and incredible growth as entrepreneurs and a business community. Join us Thursday, February 24th, 5:30 p.m. at Heritage Hunt Gold and Country Club, 6901 Arthur Hills Dr. Gainesville, VA. Tickets: Members $95.00 & $125 for Future Members with Table Sponsors Available. A plated dinner, wine and cash bar will be provided. This event will include a Silent Auction for attendees. Register to attend at pwchamber.org or call 703-368-6600. This is usually a sell-out event so get your tickets early. Nominations were accepted through December from members of the community for Prince William Chamber of Commerce members.  Chamber Members could be nominated in one of seven categories.  Each of these nominees will be eligible to win the People’s Choice Award, where the winner is selected by the Chamber Membership via a survey. The Chamber also accepted nominations for the Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Awards.  Awarded to two not-for-profit organizations making a demonstrable positive contribution to the quality of life in the Greater Prince William Region.  Each award is accompanied by a check for $1,000 to continue the winner’s work.  Awards are given in two categories:  Arts & Education or Health & Human Services.  In addition, the 7th Annual Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award will be announced and presented.  As in the past the 3 jurisdictions also have an opportunity to award a deserving business or individual of their choosing to receive an award.    Winners are chosen by a committee of Chamber Members and will be announced the evening of the awards.  Please contact Jodi Vallimont at jvallimont@pwchamber.org with any questions.   Introducing the Prince William Chamber of Commerce 2022 Business Award Nominees for the following categories:   Community Outreach •     3 Monkeys Pub and Chophouse •     Apple Federal Credit Union •     Burke & Herbert Bank •     Commonwealth Aviation •     Dominion Woman's Club •     Future Kings •     George Mason University/MAP Clinic •     House of Mercy Food Pantry and Thrift Store •     Jewelry By Designs •     John Marshall Bank •     Mosquito Joe •     Northwest Federal Credit Union •     Potomac Valley Church •     Rosie's Gaming Emporium •     Speak Up Manassas Toastmasters •     Tuscani Restaurant   Emerging Business of the Year •     Circle of Trust Senior Resources LLC •     Commonwealth Aviation •     Crazy Good Mask •     Northern Virginia Food Rescue •     Pride In Planning, LLC •     Pure barre Woodbridge •     Red Effects Infrared Fitness •     Spherion Staffing and Recruiting •     Synergy HomeCare of Lake Ridge •     Teachables •     The Salisbury Center   Excellence in Business (11+ Employees) •     Able Moving & Storage, Inc. •     Bella Vita Italian Restaurant •     Brown, Mobley & Way P.C. •     Chantilly Air •     CroppMetcalfe •     G&C Tire and auto Service •     Glory Days Grill •     Loudoun Insurance Group   •     Micron Technology, Inc. •     Milrich Virtual Professionals LLC •     Mr. Handyman •     Northwest Federal Credit Union •     OmniRide •     Pineapple Payments •     The Junkluggers of Gainesville, VA •     Whitlock Wealth Management •     Wind River Chimes   Innovation in Hospitality & Tourism •     Bella Vita Italian Restaurant •     CraftWorx Taproom •     MurLarkey Distilled Spirits •     The Osprey's at Belmont Bay •     Transaction Expert •     Zandra's Taqueria   Innovative Practice or Partnership of the Year •     Buffalo Wild Wings •     George Mason University/College of Health and Human Services •     Historic Manassas Inc •     House of Mercy •     Metro Sign & Design, Inc •     Patient First •     Teachables •     The City of Manassas, SkillSource Group, PW County Schools Adult Education Program   Tech Company of the Year •     BAE Systems •     General Computer Development (GCD)        •     Transaction Expert   Excellence in Small Business •     Carter Group Consultants •     Circle of Trust Senior Resources, LLC. •     Commonwealth Aviation •     De Lune Corp •     District Hemp •     Eidos Technologies, LLC •     Evolution Printing •     fiveC Consulting •     Frye & Company, CPAs •     Humbrecht Law PLLC •     Kwons Champion School •     McNeal and Company Creative Solutions •     Mini Price Storage •     Mystic Flow Wellness Center •     Oak Hill Awards Inc. •     Pampa's Fox Catering •     Professionals by Design •     SBR Workplace Leadership Services •     Semifreddo Italian Cuisine •     Spherion Staffing & Recruiting •     Sweeney Barn •     Transaction Expert   Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Award - Arts & Education •     Freedom Museum •     Greater Manassas Baseball League (GMBL) •     Prince William Library Foundation •     Virginia National Ballet   Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Award - Health & Human Services •     Agape Love in Action, Inc •     CASA Children's Intervention Services, Inc •     Community Residences, Inc. •     Dominion Womans Club - SWEATS FOR VA VETS •     House of Mercy •     Keep Prince William Beautiful •     Leadership Prince William •     LifeConnect Community Church •     Northern Virginia Food Rescue •     Semper K9 Assistance Dogs •     Streetlight Community Outreach Ministries •     Volunteer Prince William   Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award •     Dr. Randall Edwards •     Lovey Hammel •     Dr. Alice Howard •     Michael Lubeley, Esq •     The Honorable Harry J. “Hal” Parrish, II The 2022 Business Awards and Silent Auction is only made possible thanks to the many sponsors and event partners. Huge thank you to the Business Growth Vision Partner – Prince William County Industrial Development Authority, Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award Sponsor - Vanderpool, Frostick & Nishanian, P.C., Program Sponsor - Loveless Porter Architects, LLC, and Celebration Toast Sponsor - Whitlock Wealth Management. To see a complete list of event sponsors please visit https://pwchamber.org/events/calendar/ or click here.

Crossroads Chambers: Promote Your Business: 2022 Corporate Sponsorships Available We appreciate our Corporate Partners and their continued support of the Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce: Centier Bank, Horizon Bank, BMO Harris Bank, Peoples Bank, First Midwest Bank, and First Merchants Bank. Benefits of becoming a Corporate Partner include maximizing your company recognition at all Chamber events, logo on all event promo, banner ad on website, sponsorship level at events, etc. If your company is interested in learning more about our Partnership Program and how you can be recognized all year long please contact the Chamber office at (219) 769-8180. Brochure Available

Special Delivery: Town Square Publications has delivered 400 new chamber maps, community guide and membership directories since January 2020. Town Square Publications 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  or call (847)-427-4633.

Top 2021 Story: Indy Chamber Recognized as ACCE Chamber of the Year Chamber Recognized as ACCE’s 2021 Chamber of the Year Recognized for Rapid Response Hub and Inclusive Incentive programs ... the Indy Chamber has been named the 2021 Chamber of the Year, presented by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). ACCE, based in Alexandria, Va., has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry. This is the organization’s first Chamber of the Year designation; awarded for the development of a Rapid Response Hub to support businesses through the global pandemic and for their Inclusive Incentives Initiative which guides local and regional economic development strategies. Read more: Chamber of the Year

Waterloo Chamber Community Service Award Nomination Application The Waterloo Chamber invites you to participate in selecting a recipient for the Community Service Award for the 2021 to be presented at the Annual Membership Social this coming March 10th, 2022. The nominees will be reviewed and selected by an appointed committee. The following represents the criteria set by the selection committee for choosing the winner. The nomination is open to the public (not just chamber members.) The deadline for applications is February 4th, 2022. Please email or mail: Waterloo Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 1, 118 E. Third Street, Waterloo, Illinois 62298 Email: Chamber@htc.net Criteria • Nominee must be a Waterloo resident. • Their achievements should have a positive effect on the quality of life within our community. • They must be involved in community service through business, civic, or charitable affiliations. • They must have demonstrated dedication to providing excellent service. #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation (Be happy!): You don’t have to attend every argument you are invited to. WC Fields

Eurofins Genomics to Construct New Facility in Louisville   Operation will supply reagents used in COVID-19 testing Kentucky companies continue to help in the fight against COVID-19, as today Gov. Andy Beshear congratulated Eurofins Genomics LLC, an international provider of DNA sequencing services, on the company’s plans to expand its presence in Louisville with a new manufacturing facility to supply reagents used for virus detection. The company will invest over $35.7 million for the new operation. “I am pleased to see Kentucky companies continue to do their part as we fight the COVID-19 pandemic,” Gov. Beshear said. “This investment by Eurofins Genomics will directly boost testing capabilities while also setting the company up for future growth and job creation in our state. I appreciate this commitment by leaders at Eurofins and hope to see the company continue to grow in the years ahead.” Eurofins will construct a 65,000-square-foot facility in Blankenbaker Station Business Park across from its existing location. The new facility will house the company’s manufacturing, research and administrative operations. The facility will produce oligonucleotides – or oligos – which are synthetic DNA used in molecular diagnostic applications. Oligos are critical for the detection of viruses and are used in PCR-based COVID-19 tests and a variety of other diagnostic applications. The new facility will increase domestic production of oligo and reduce lead times to help support a market vulnerable to supply shortages. Production will support the company’s current partnerships with the U.S. Air Force and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Construction is expected to begin in April and be completed by Q2 2023. Kentucky’s ideal geographic location and expansive distribution and logistics presence will enable Eurofins to enact fast and reliable distribution of these key reagents throughout the country to help mitigate supply chain issues and support domestic COVID-19 testing. “The new facility will increase domestic production of oligos to combat current and future pandemics and empower a broader range of research in the molecular diagnostic field,” said Sumit Gupta, president of Eurofins Genomics. Louisville-based Eurofins Genomics is a life science company that provides genomic products and services to medical, environmental and agricultural partners with locations in the U.S., Europe and Asia. The company is a subsidiary of Luxembourg-based Eurofins Scientific, which was founded in 1981 and employs 55,000 people in over 900 laboratories across 50 countries. Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer noted the logistical advantage that will support Eurofins’ growth. “The pandemic has shown how rapid-turnaround medical services are pivotal to providing people with answers, as well as helping track the spread of viruses like COVID-19,” Mayor Fischer said. “By locating in Louisville, the home of UPS Worldport, medical testing, research and laboratory companies including Eurofins can save critical time on shipping, ensuring the quickest results for their clients. Eurofins’ plans to expand its North American headquarters in Louisville will allow the company to further its mission of providing high-quality, accurate and timely service to customers across the continent.” Eurofins’ investment and planned job creation builds on recent economic momentum in the commonwealth, as the state builds back stronger from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Two announcements made Friday bring total new investment for the week to approximately $291.8 million with over 1,200 jobs announced. In 2021, the commonwealth shattered every economic development record in the books. Private-sector new-location and expansion announcements included a record $11.2 billion in total planned investment and commitments to create a record 18,000-plus full-time jobs across the coming years. Kentucky’s average incentivized hourly wage for projects statewide in 2021 was $24 before benefits, a 9.4% increase over the previous year. In September, Gov. Beshear, Ford Motor Co. Executive Chair Bill Ford, CEO Jim Farley and Dong-Seob Jee, president of SK Innovation’s battery business, announced the single largest economic development project in the history of the commonwealth, celebrating a transformative $5.8 billion investment that will create 5,000 jobs and places Kentucky at the forefront of the automotive industry’s future. The Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Map The Duneland Chamber Community Map is now available at the Chamber today! Thanks to Maura Durham, June Russell and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

VIEW the Duneland Chamber Map

Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633.

J.C. Watts to Headline Chamber Day Dinner February 15   J.C. Watts, a conservative visionary with a passion for health care, education and national security, will be the featured speaker at the Indiana Chamber of Commerce’s Chamber Day Dinner on February 15. The dinner will be held at the Indiana Roof Ballroom and annually draws hundreds of policy, business and community leaders. Thompson Thrift is the presenting sponsor. This year’s event also will feature the presentation of the first ever winner of the Indiana Chamber’s Coolest Thing Made in Indiana online competition, which celebrates the state’s long manufacturing tradition. The contest is sponsored by MCM CPAs & Advisors. “This Chamber Day Dinner will be loaded with excitement,” predicts Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar. “J.C. Watts will certainly shed some light on the matters of the day that are most on people’s mind, and it will be great to celebrate the Coolest Thing Made in Indiana winner and the other finalists.” Watts has held many roles in his career including Oklahoma congressman, chairman of the House Republican Conference, co-chairman of the 2000 Republican National Convention, chairman of the Black News Channel, ordained minister, college quarterback and two-time author. Chamber Day Dinner tickets are $250 per person or $165 for Indiana Chamber members; tables are also available. Visit www.indianachamber.com/event/chamberday to purchase. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Jim Wagner at jwagner@indianachamber.com.

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Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2021 Welcome Home magazine

The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2021 Welcome Home New Mover magazine is available at the Crossroads Regional Chamber today and will be mailed to every area NEW MOVER for the next 12 months! Thanks to Deann Patena and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

View the Crossraods Regional Chamber Welcome Home Magazine

Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633.

Mary Sudicky named chair of Valpo Chamber board Valpo Chamber President Rex Richards announced today that Mary Sudicky has been elected Chairman of the Board for 2022 by the Chamber’s Board of Directors. “Thomas Long has served in a leadership capacity prior to being chosen as Chair in the roles of Vice Chair of Public Policy and then as Chair Elect”, stated Richards. Long is President of NITCO, a telecom company that provides Voice-ISP-CATV services to Jasper, Lake, La Porte, Newton, Porter and Stark Counties.  Joining Mary Sudicky as officers for 2022 are Lee Lane, Chair Elect and Vice-Chair of Public Policy, of Genetos Lane & Buitendorp LLP; Stephanie Domazet, Vice Chair of Major Events, of General Insurance Services, Inc.; Matt Evans, Vice Chair of Member Services, of RE/MAX Lifestyles; Greg Gottschalk, Treasurer, of Centier Bank; and Nick Larson, Vice Chair of Economic Development, Larson-Danielson Construction Company, Inc. Richards added that four new board members were elected to the Board of Directors. Those individuals include: Denise Conlon, NIPSCO; Jennifer Figg, Adams Radio Group; Cindy Sausman, Peoples Bank; and Matt Welter, Wayne Enterprises.

New Castle- Henry County Chamber March Workshop: Canva Basics Just a friendly reminder that registration for the February 2nd Wednesday Workshop with WholeHeart communications closes tomorrow January 28th. Workshops are FREE to Chamber members and $10 for non-members. Register by clicking here! The March 2nd Wednesday Workshop will be Canva Basics.

The Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance Street Map The Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance Street Map is now available at the GKEDA today! Thanks to Charlie Sparks, Amy Conrad and Sandy Chapin and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

VIEW the Greater Kokomo Economic Development Alliance Street Map

Did you know that Town Square Publications will start and deliver over 100 maps in 2021? Please email John Dussman or call (847)-427-4633.

Kosciusko Chamber: 110TH ANNUAL CHAMBER AWARDS DINNER TONIGHT! Thursday, January 27th Nextremity Solutions For the first time ever and thanks to our member, DreamOn Studios, we will be offering a live stream option for those not able to attend our annual awards ceremony tonight! If you were unable to purchase a ticket before the event sold out, we invite you to join us virtually. The live stream will cover our business meeting, keynote address and the awards portion of the evening and will begin at approximately 6:30pm. For those of you who purchased a table or tickets to join us in person, please plan to arrive at Nextremity Solutions between 5:00pm and 5:45pm. The event is sold out, so tickets will not be sold at the door. Thank you! Multiple awards will be presented to businesses and individuals who have made a significant impact on our community this year. This includes our highly anticipated Man and Woman of the Year awards and two brand new business awards. CLICK HERE TO WATCH LIVE

Rush County 2021 Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Rush County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Rush County Chamber today! Thanks to Sandy Fussner and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!!!

View the Rush County Map

Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633.

Elkhart Chamber: Chamber Priorities   The Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has adopted the 2020-2023 priorities. This longer term view on priorities will allow us to research, develop, implement, and analyze strategies that have increased outcomes for our area. The four priority areas for this four year time period are: Talent Connections Focus on connecting individuals, including current residents/workers and those currently residing outside of our area, to living and career opportunities in Greater Elkhart. Entrepreneurship and Innovation Support the growth of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Greater Elkhart that leads to more engagement, investment, and expansion of innovation in the area. Redevelopment Identify areas in Greater Elkhart that are in need of redevelopment and work with the appropriate partners to recruit investment. Regionalism On behalf of the Elkhart business community, help lead, support, and promote regional efforts that impact economic sustainability, resiliency, and diversification.

La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership Announces Ready2Work Childcare Voucher Program  The La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership is pleased to announce a new program launch for 2022. To help local job seekers and our local business partners, LEAP is committed to providing childcare assistance on behalf of qualified individuals within the City of La Porte who have been unable to return to work or find new employment due to obstacles related to childcare.  The qualified candidate must demonstrate and provide proof that they have actively pursued and obtained full-time employment in the Greater La Porte area to be considered. A LEAP representative will work with the employer to confirm employment status and eligibility. If awarded assistance, the employee must maintain full-time employment to remain eligible. Termination or voluntary resignation of employment will result in the loss of assistance payments from LEAP.  Read the Article Here!

Logansport Cass County Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide/Map The Logansport Cass County Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide/Map is available at the Logansport-Cass County Chamber today! Thanks to Bill Cuppy, Teresa Zimmerman and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!!

VIEW the Logansport Cass County Chamber Guide/Map

Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633.

Cassie Hagan stepping down as Crawfordsville-Montgomery County Chamber director   The Crawfordsville-Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce is searching for a new leader. Executive Director Cassie Hagan will leave her post at the end of the year, the organization announced Wednesday. Casey Hockersmith, the assistant executive director, will serve as interim director. Hagan joined the Chamber in 2019, shortly after the organization moved into its new offices at Fusion 54. She oversaw the restructuring of the staff and board of directors and led a rebranding effort. During her tenure, the Chamber also partnered with Proactive MD to open a health clinic for member businesses and their employees. In a letter to members, Hagan called her time in the role as “some of the most personally and professionally rewarding of my career so far.” She has been named the new director of professional development at the Center for Innovation, Business and Entreprenuership at Wabash College. “No doubt it is a bit of a bittersweet change for me, but I look forward to continuing our relationships in my new role and as a continued supporter of the Chamber in some capacity,” Hagan wrote. Hagan’s new role marks her return to Wabash, where she served as associate director of career services before joining the Chamber. In her own note to members, Chamber President Tracy Mobley praised Hagan for helping “lead our organization through some transformative years.” Chamber President Tracy Mobley said Hagan “helped lead our organization through some transformative years.” “We are constantly evolving to meet the needs of our membership and community and extend a heartfelt thank you to Cassie for all her hard work to get us where we are now,” Mobley said in a note to members. The board of directors will select a permanent director. Read more: Journal Review

NEW ARRIVAL!

Portage Chamber of Commerce Community Map

Greater Portage Chamber Community Map

The Greater Portage Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Portage Chamber! Thanks to Nancy Simpson and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633.

Indiana SBA: Start Strong Webinar When: Feb 1, 12pm ET Where: Online Register now About this event: Start Strong is an hour-long presentation for aspiring entrepreneurs and new business owners looking for basic information to help them get started on the right foot with their Indiana state taxes. Topics include: business structures registering a new business tax types filing and paying taxes business resources Don't miss hearing from an experienced DOR representative and have your tax questions answered; sign up today! Reminders and a link to the webinar will be emailed after registration. You can also access the class on the day of the event by typing https://bit.ly/StartStrong2122 into your web browser. Questions? Email Economic Development Specialist Ronda Crouch at ronda.crouch@sba.gov. Register now SBA Indiana District Office 317-226-7272 www.sba.gov/in

#BestChamber practices: Chamber Forms Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc. The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that they recently received 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service. This classification allows the Chamber to operate a public charity. The primary focus of the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc. is early childhood education and childcare, an important workforce development issue. In 2018, the Kosciusko Chamber, Kosciusko County Community Foundation and United Way were instrumental in founding LaunchPad, Kosciusko County’s Child Care and Early Learning Coalition. The Chamber has previously had to rely on the Kosciusko County Community Foundation to serve as the fiscal sponsor of LaunchPad. This updated status allows LaunchPad to be eligible for both receiving and making grants to build high quality childcare capacity in the county. LaunchPad Director, Sherry Searles said, "We are so thankful for the fiscal support of the Kosciusko County Community Foundation over the last three years. We now look forward to the funding opportunities as a result of our own foundation." LaunchPad was formed as an alliance between United Way, the Kosciusko County Community Foundation, and the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Chamber President & CEO, Rob Parker said, “Since the inception, all three entities strongly believe that Childcare and Early Childhood learning is a Workforce Development issue. Without the fiscal partnership between United Way and the KCCF, the Chamber would not have been able to fully implement the strategic direction of Launchpad. Having our own 501(c)(3) foundation will allow the Chamber to be more active in seeking grants to encourage more high quality childcare seats in Kosciusko county. At the Chamber, we take great pride in helping businesses grow.”

#BestChamber practices: Website Information: Be the "go-to" Resource!

U.S. Chamber: Resources to help keep your business strong, prepared, and proactive. Reopening Business Digital Resources Center Guides and Toolkits  Policy & Advocacy  Business Community Response  Economic Impact COVID-19 Vaccine Resource Center Indiana Labor Report Snapshot: Employment Report (LAUS) Labor Force Estimates for U.S., Indiana, MSAs, Counties, Cities Ranking of Indiana Counties by Unemployment Rate Indiana County Map with Unemployment Rates Order free at-home COVID-19 tests The federal government has made at-home rapid COVID-19 tests available for free. The initial program will allow four free tests to be requested per residential address. Visit www.COVIDTests.gov to order. The tests are expected to be mailed within 7 to 12 days of ordering. December Indiana Employment Report Indiana’s unemployment rate fell from 3.0% in November to 2.7% in December—a record low for the state dating back to 1976, according to the Indiana Department of Workforce Development (DWD). In addition, private sector employment jumped by 10,900 over the last month and has now increased for six of the last seven months. This has resulted in a gain of 82,400 jobs year-over-year. Total private employment now stands at 2,705,500—35,000 below the December 2019 peak of 2,740,500. “With a 2.7% unemployment rate and more than 150,000 job postings statewide, there are now more employment and economic opportunities available than there have been in several decades,” DWD Commissioner Fred Payne said. “We will continue to offer Hoosier job seekers the proper skills training to secure the job of their choice, and Hoosier employers the tools to find workers to fit their needs.” By comparison, the national unemployment rate dropped from 4.2% in November to 3.9% in December. Learn more about how unemployment rates are calculated here: https://www.hoosierdata.in.gov/infographics/employment-status.asp. 

Emilee Roberts Resigns as Madison Chamber Director   The Madison Area Chamber of Commerce announced Monday that they have accepted the resignation of Executive Director, Emilee Roberts. Roberts has accepted a position as Executive Director of a nonprofit organization outside of the Madison area.   "It has been a tremendous honor to serve the Madison area community over the past year, and this decision did not come lightly,” said Roberts. “It is truly bittersweet to leave this organization and this community, as I certainly love it and will miss it. A personal thank you to the entire board, ambassador team, community leaders, and Chamber members for their guidance and support.” Roberts said she is proud of the work completed at the Madison Area Chamber, as it was a true team effort. “We were able to grow our events, even in the midst of COVID; we worked to have more connection, retention, and visibility for the Chamber, as well as the members we serve; and we were able to create a working succession plan and documentation to make sure the organization was internally successful. This wouldn’t have been possible without the staff, board, ambassadors, Chamber members, and community. I hope it is something we can all be proud of.” “Emilee has been a true joy to work with and has rekindled what I believe to be the life source of the Chamber, our local businesses, members, and bringing the spotlight to them. We appreciate the dedication, commitment, and passion she has personally displayed within this community and on behalf of the Chamber. She has been a great leader for this organization, and she will be missed,” said board member, Angela Record. The Madison Area Chamber of Commerce is launching a search for a new Executive Director. The Executive Director provides leadership, strategic direction, vision, and management for the programs and personnel of the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce. They demonstrate expertise in strategic planning, member sales and services, program management, economic development, public policy, nonprofit governance and operations, finance and accounting, public speaking, and fundraising.  For more information or to apply for the position of Executive Director of the Madison Area Chamber of Commerce at www.madisonindiana.com/jobs. More information: 95.3 WIKI

Fulton County Chamber Business Minute: Thank you to everyone who attended the first of three legislative breakfasts last Saturday at Akron Community Center! We had an excellent turn out and great conversations with our state legislators. The next free breakfast is scheduled for Saturday, February 19th at Rochester Meat & Deli. Fulton County Commissioners and the Mayor of Rochester will provide an overview of work being done in Fulton County, then be available for a Q&A session with the audience. We look forward to seeing you there!   As always, thank you for your support and involvement in Fulton County!   Jillian Smith Executive Director

#BestChamber Practices: Members for Life - Help your Members market themselves by utilizing co-op advertising funds This Month's category: Lawn & Garden Download a list of Lawn and Garden companies that have Co-op Advertising Programs Available General questions about finding Co-op Advertising for your members, email John Dussman - jdussman@tspubs.com

Job Openings In #ChamberWorld Indiana- Executive Director - Madison Chamber See Story above... See job posting here: Indeed.com Data and Technology Manager - Indiana Chamber Chamber Administrator - Greater Rensselaer Chamber of Commerce, $16 - $18 an hour - Part-time - Read more: Indeed.com Executive Director, Crawfordsville-Montgomery County Chamber - see story above

#FamousChamber Quotation of the Week (Be happy!): Mistakes are the portals of discovery. James Joyce

WOMEN EMPOWERING WOMEN FEBRUARY EVENT: GEMS PERSONALITY ASSESSMENT The Dubois County women’s leadership organization, Women Empowering Women (WEW), will gather on Wednesday, February 23 to join in as Sandy Smith presents on the topic of the GEMS Personality Assessment. The February session will be held at the Jasper Public Library in Hickory Rooms A & B. Doors will open at 11:30am for networking before the meeting from 11:45am to 12:45pm EST. This event is open to all prospective and current WEW members. Join us to discover your GEM! You may have been exposed to personality tests before. There are four types of Gems: Emerald, Pearl, Ruby, and Sapphire. While we have characteristics of all four gems within us, and often one or two are more dominate than the others. In this session, you gain insight on understanding your Gem and the Gem of others that you work with or interact with, to help you as you better your communication and focus on helping them feel understood.   Advanced reservations for the luncheon are required for members and guests. Reservations should be made by calling the Jasper Chamber of Commerce at 812-482-6866 or by emailing chamber@jasperin.org by Friday, February 18. The cost for lunch is $10.00 per person and is payable at the door. The mission of Women Empowering Women is to inspire women in business to reach their highest potential by instilling confidence, building networks, and promoting community in Dubois County. Membership is open to any woman in business who lives or works in Dubois County. For more information about WEW and to access a membership application, visit the organizations’ Facebook page or contact the Jasper Chamber of Commerce. Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing 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 Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!