Chamber of Commerce Daily News

Town Square Publications (https://www.townsquarepublications.com) publishes two hundred world class turn-key chamber directories, community guides and maps annually at no cost to the chamber of commerce. We are Employee-Owned & part of the Daily Herald Media Group.149 years old and thriving through innovation daily. Chamber of Commerce Daily News follows chamber news, education, economic development, chamber jobs, and other related chamber issues/events. Best, John Dussman

Tuesday, May 31, 2022

Mike Jordan set to retire at the end of 2022 after 25 years leading Chippewa Falls Chamber

Mike Jordan set to retire at the end of 2022 after 25 years leading Chippewa Falls Chamber

CHIPPEWA FALLS — After serving at the Chamber of Commerce in Davenport, Iowa, for four years, Mike Jordan began looking for a new position.

“I was doing a national search,” Jordan recalled. “We were interviewing in a number of communities in the Upper Midwest.”

Some didn’t click. But Jordan and his wife, Carol, liked what they saw of Chippewa Falls when they crossed the bridge into downtown the first time.

“Both of us immediately felt like this was a place we could live and raise a family and start our careers,” he said.

That was May 1997. Now, after 25 years as president of the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, Jordan has announced he will retire by the end of the year. He’s proud of the successes in the community during his tenure.

“Our organization is very widely viewed as an influential business organization in the region,” Jordan said. “We’re leaving the organization in a good position. Where we’re at is a solid, diverse business community. We have a diverse manufacturing base, which is really important. And the tourism business, that is money getting imported into our community.”

Perhaps the most notable achievement of the chamber was creating Oktoberfest, which launched in 2003 and has steadily grown.

“It’s been highly successful,” he said.

Jerry Jacobson, Northwestern Bank president, praised Jordan for his work in transforming the city and downtown.

“Mike Jordan revitalized that chamber,” Jacobson said. “He changed its scope into economic growth in Chippewa Falls. His leadership was really evident in economic development. And he would not take credit for anything. He let others take credit for it. He just wanted things done for Chippewa. We were very fortunate to have him.”

Chippewa Falls Mayor Greg Hoffman offered similar words of praise.

“Mike is a strong proponent of industry,” Hoffman said. “He’s been really good to work with. He looks to the future.”

Charlie Walker, Chippewa County Economic Development Corp. executive director, said Jordan deserves credit for helping the community grow.

“There is no doubt that his leadership since the late ‘90s has stewarded Chippewa Falls through ups and downs,” Walker said. “It’s going to be big boots to fill because Mike was truly a leader. He’s a behind-the-scenes guy, always making sure things are moving forward. He was a visionary in motivating the county in establishing the Lake Wissota Business Park.”

Jordan said he is pleased that the city has become even more of a tourism destination since he started.

“Before the (Highway 29) bypass, people hated coming to Chippewa Falls; (roads) would be backed up on a Friday,” he said.

The Chamber opened in its current location at the entrance corridor to downtown in 2015. The building is located at 1 N. Bridge St., replacing the Empire Building, which sat empty after a May 2002 fire until it was torn down in 2014. Across the street, there is the new Short Elliott Hendrickson headquarters, while the new Cobblestone Hotel is also at that intersection, which has revitalized the entrance to downtown.

Before moving into their new building, the Chamber of Commerce office was in a former Hardee’s restaurant a block south of the new headquarters for 13 years. That building was torn down to make way for the new Chippewa Riverfront park, which also has been a draw to the city, bringing people to get a scenic view of the river.

NorthRidge Center, also known as the Chippewa Mall, was revitalized during Jordan’s tenure, adding a movie theater, restaurants and the Chippewa Valley VA Clinic, along with other businesses. Leinenkugel Brewing Co. constructed the Leinie Lodge, which has become a tourism draw. And Lake Wissota Business Park has attracted so many businesses in recent years that the county is looking for land for a future business park.

Jordan, 59, earned a degree in international business from Marycrest College in Iowa. He has no plans to leave the area. One of his children was born here, and the other was young when they moved to the city.

“It’s a great community,” he said. “It’s been a great community for my family.”

Friday, May 27, 2022

U.S. Chamber: Antitrust Bill Would Irreparably Harm Our Economy; Greater Wausau Chamber: 2022 Small Business of the Year Award recipients named; Kentucky SBA: You have questions... we have answers!; Town Square Publications Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in North America!

Good morning #ChamberWorld! Have a GREAT Memorial Day weekend!

U.S. Chamber: Antitrust Bill Would Irreparably Harm Our Economy

This week, a revised version of the antitrust bill, the "American Innovation and Choice Online Act," was introduced to the Senate.

Why it matters: This legislation would irreparably harm the American economy and innovation. It fails to address bipartisan concerns that it would undermine our national security, cybersecurity, privacy, and international competitiveness—and harm consumers.
Such an approach will fuel further inflation, limit choices, and undermine investment in innovation by injecting regulatory uncertainty into the marketplace at the worst possible time.

Be smart: The bill’s sponsors have rushed ahead intentionally avoiding any hearings to thoughtfully evaluate the bill. American innovators and businesses of all sizes deserve better.
The legislation is too consequential to not have been properly vetted as it seeks to remake an entire tech ecosystem that has made the United States the envy of the world.

Bottom line: This bill won’t just impact the tech sector—it seeks to upend the role of antitrust to give government sweeping authority to regulate entire industries and micro-manage our economy.

ICYMI:
Antitrust Bills: A Trojan Horse That Will Radically Alter Our Free Market Economy

Greater Wausau Chamber: 2022 Small Business of the Year Award recipients named

The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce named the recipients of the 2022 Small Business of the Year Awards at a program held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Rib Mountain on Tuesday, May 10. Eleven businesses and organizations had been named as finalists in two categories.

The Small Business of the Year Award recognizes business growth, community involvement and innovative efforts in the Wausau region and is a part of the Chamber’s annual Business Week. Neena Pacholke of WAOW served as the emcee for the event.

The 2022 Small Business of the Year Award recipients were Lamb’s Fresh Market in the Business-to-Consumer category and the Wisconsin Automotive & Truck Education Association (WATEA) in the Charitable Non-Profit category.

“Being nominated and selected for this award is such an honor and one that we as an organization are so proud of.” said Ron Lamb, CEO of Lamb’s Fresh Market. “It is a privilege to be included with all of the outstanding businesses that have received this award and we will use this award as constant reminder of what it takes to be recognized in this way. Serving the greater Wausau area and the people in it is certainly a blessing to our organization.” Read more: Wausau Pilot and Review

Kentucky SBA: You have questions... we have answers!

Did you miss Q&A with SBA?

Here is a quick recap of some of the questions asked:

I’ve been told that my COVID-19 EIDL loan was funded. However, my bank returned the funds. Are those funds still earmarked for me?
Yes, they are but it may take longer for you to receive the funds. Check your email frequently.

I was not able to electronically sign my EIDL. I’m told I must manually sign but no one has told me how.

Proceed: PDC.AccountsCOVIDLoanClosing@sba.gov
Cancel: PDC.AccountsCovidEIDLCancellationRequests@sba.gov
Questions: disastercustomerservice@sba.gov
What exactly is a grant and how do they work?

Grants can come from many sources including all levels of government and foundations. However, our experience has been that there are very few grants available directly to businesses for startup or expansion.

I have an oil change business in an area with a lot of public/government vehicles. I’d like to get some of this local business, but I’m told I must accept credit cards. True or false?
True, the government pays for services with:

EFT Electronic Funds Transfer
Credit Card (micro purchases)

I would like to start a business, but don’t know where to begin. How can SBA help me?
SBA has excellent online resources. Check the Business Guide tab on the sba.gov website. There's also a Learning Platform. SBA Resource Partners provide no-fee, high quality business counseling. Many resource partners can meet virtually. Find your Resource Partners under the Local Assistance tab at sba.gov.

I have a business in my current state and would like to expand in a different state. What is the best way to start that process?
Make sure you register your new business with the right agencies.

Licenses and permits
Foreign qualifications
New state and localities taxes

How do I certify my business with the SBA?
SBA is the gatekeeper to small business certifications when it comes to doing work for and with the federal government.

WOSB Woman Owned Small Business
8(a) Program 8(a) Business Development Program
HUBZone Historically Underutilized Business Zone
Vets First Verification Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Business (moving to SBA in 2023)

My bank turned me down for a business loan. What are some alternate sources of funding?
The federal government supports several non-bank business funding sources like Community Development Financial Institutions and Microloan entities.

How can a home-based business use my Google Business Profile page? I have a family and don’t want to share my personal address.
If you don't serve customers at your business address, leave the business location blank. However, you should identify your service area AND follow all recommendations to strengthen your listing. Click here for information from our Resource Partners at SCORE.

Does SBA do anything else I may not know about? That is, other than access to capital, government contracting and counseling services?Yes, SBA works to support small businesses through many different avenues such as:

National Small Business Week
Small Business success stories
Small Business research
Visit www.sba.gov for more information

Town Square Publications Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in North America!

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!

Thursday, May 26, 2022

Finalists Named for the 2022 ACCE Chamber of the Year; Mason City Chamber of Commerce Mason City, IA Zionsville Chamber of Commerce Zionsville, Ind. Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce Paducah, Ky.; West Des Moines Chamber West Des Moines, Iowa; Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Bowling Green, Ky. Dallas Regional Chamber Dallas, Texas Hilton Head Island - Bluffton Chamber of Commerce Hilton Head Island, S.C.

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

#BestChamber: Finalists Named for the 2022 ACCE Chamber of the Year

The Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives announced today the finalists for the 2022 Chamber of the Year competition, sponsored by Personify.

“This year’s finalists are among the most impactful organizations within the chamber industry,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “We’re in the midst of a chamber renaissance. Chambers of commerce have never been more essential to regional prosperity and are being called on to serve as partners, thought leaders and innovative problem solvers in new ways on new issues. Congratulations to our 2022 finalists.”

Finalists for 2022 Chamber of the Year are:

Category One

Mason City Chamber of Commerce
Mason City, Iowa

North Tampa Bay Chamber
Lutz, Fla.

Zionsville Chamber of Commerce
Zionsville, Ind.

Category Two

Henry County Chamber of Commerce
McDonough, Ga.

Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce
Paducah, Ky.

West Des Moines Chamber
West Des Moines, Iowa

Category Three

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce
Bowling Green, Ky.

Conway Area Chamber of Commerce
Conway, Ark.

Eugene Area Chamber of Commerce
Eugene, Ore.

Category Four

Dallas Regional Chamber
Dallas, Texas

Hilton Head Island - Bluffton Chamber of Commerce
Hilton Head Island, S.C.

Portland Business Alliance
Portland, Ore.

In the final phase of the competition, a judging committee conducts interviews with leaders representing each finalist chamber. One winner from each category will be named on Wednesday, July 27 at the #ACCE22 Convention in Indy.

Learn more about Chamber of the Year here.

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

Town Square Publications Chamber Directories, Maps, Digital Directories and Community Profiles: The BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

Wednesday, May 25, 2022

TOMORROW: America's Seed Fund Startup Expo 2022 - #entrepeneur; Catalent Inc. to Expand in Winchester, Create 277 Well-Paying Jobs With $175 Million Investment; Michigan saw record small business growth in 2021; Hollobus Technologies to Locate HQ, Manufacturing and R&D Operations in Murray, Create 150 Jobs With $2.25 Million Investment; Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: Last week's Professional Edge Workshop; Mclean County Chamber: Walk-Up Job Fair Returns with 40+ Employers; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!!

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

TOMORROW: America's Seed Fund Startup Expo 2022 - #entrepeneur

Join the SBA's Office of Investment and Innovation tomorrow, May 25, 2022 for the launch of the inaugural America’s Seed Fund Startup Expo. Registration is free and open to the public, allowing innovation communities throughout the country to join and participate from afar. We encourage you to invite others from your network who might be interested in learning about the important work and impact of America’s Seed Fund and the innovative startups presenting at this inaugural virtual event! You can share SBA’s Twitter and LinkedIn posts (and the LinkedIn Event)

The program for this virtual event will feature a welcome and opening remarks from SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman and showcase 12 U.S.-based startups supported by America’s Seed Fund for presentations and discussions on:

Climate and Energy, moderated by Ryan Panchadsaram, Advisor, Kleiner Perkins
Amorphic Tech (Allentown, PA)
FGC Plasma Solutions (Middleton, MA)
Hydroplane (Lancaster, CA)

AgTech and Food Security, moderated by Laura Appenzeller, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Innovation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
General Probiotics (Saint Paul, MN)
Nucleic Sensing Systems (Saint Paul, MN)
Shellfish Solutions d/b/a Blue Trace (Castine, ME)

Supply Chain Resiliency, moderated by Javier Saade, Partner, Fenway Summer & Impact Master Holdings
Chromatic 3D Materials (Golden Valley, MN)
Delta Development Team (Tucson, AZ)
Re:3D (Houston, TX)

National Security and Defense, moderated by Wes Spurlock, Chief of Strategic Capital, AFWERX
BadVR (Pacoima, CA)
Enduralock (Lenexa, KS)
PSYONIC (Champaign, IL) Register

Catalent Inc. to Expand in Winchester, Create 277 Well-Paying Jobs With $175 Million Investment

Company to boost production capacity and add R&D presence

Today Gov. Andy Beshear congratulated Catalent Inc., which partners with pharma, biotech and consumer health companies to optimize the development, launch and life-cycle supply of products for patients around the world, on its planned $175 million investment to expand its existing operation and add a new R&D facility in Clark County, creating 277 high-wage jobs for Kentuckians.

“It’s always great to see existing companies expand in Kentucky, but it’s even better when that growth includes great jobs for our residents,” Gov. Beshear said. “Catalent has been an important part of the Winchester community and the creation of 277 well-paying jobs will strengthen its presence in Clark County in the years to come. Thank you to Catalent’s leadership for continuing to create excellent job opportunities in our state.”

With this investment, the existing 190,000-square-foot Winchester facility on Enterprise Drive will grow by 90,000 square feet to increase manufacturing capacity within Catalent’s oral dose division. The company also will acquire a nearly 17,000-square-foot facility on Venable Road, which will house its R&D operations. New positions created in Clark County will include, but are not limited to, scientists, manufacturing, quality assurance, maintenance and warehouse positions. Work on the project is expected to begin this year and to be completed by 2027.

Company leadership noted Clark County and the commonwealth’s strong workforce and excellent quality of life as advantages to locating the expansion at the existing Winchester operation. Currently, Catalent employs more than 650 people at the location.

“We look forward to further investing and growing in Winchester,” said Chris Rosenbaum, general manager of Catalent in Winchester. “The state of Kentucky’s talented workforce, tight-knit community and business environment provide major advantages to the future growth of Catalent.”

Catalent is a global leader in helping pharma, biotech and consumer health partners to optimize the development, launch and life-cycle supply of products for patients globally. With expertise in development sciences, delivery technologies and multimodality manufacturing, Catalent partners to produce personalized medicines, consumer health brand extensions and blockbuster drugs. Catalent helps accelerate over 1,000 partner programs and launch over 150 new products every year. Its flexible manufacturing platforms at over 50 global sites supply over 70 billion doses of nearly 7,000 products to more than 1,000 customers annually. Catalent’s expert workforce exceeds 19,000, including more than 2,500 scientists and technicians. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, the company generated $4 billion in revenue in fiscal year 2021.

Currently, more than 200 health care-related technology, service and manufacturing locations operate in the commonwealth, employing over 37,000 Kentucky residents. Since the start of the Beshear administration, businesses within the sector have announced more than 2,000 new jobs throughout the state. The industry includes headquarters operations, pharmaceutical makers, medical equipment design and production, medical device manufacturers and health care product distributors.

Clark County Judge/Executive Henry Branham said Catalent is an instrumental part of the community.

“Our community of Winchester/Clark County is very pleased to work with Catalent on another expansion,” Judge Branham said. “They continually work with our local governments to increase quality of life opportunities for our citizens. They are a wonderful corporate citizen and we are fortunate to have them in our community.”

Winchester Mayor Ed Burtner noted the importance of Catalent’s continued growth.

“The community of Winchester and Clark County are pleased that Catalent has chosen to expand their operations here and thereby add many new, good-paying jobs and investment to our business and economic base,” Mayor Burtner said. “Catalent is an important corporate citizen and we value highly their investment and contributions to our community.”

Michigan saw record small business growth in 2021

Despite a labor shortage and a wave of resignations defining the first year after the coronavirus hit, Michigan consumers have a chance to try many new small businesses as the state saw its fastest small business job growth in 23 years.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced in a press release Monday that in 2021, roughly 150,000 Michiganders applied to start small businesses, which is 59% more than in 2019.

The first three quarters of 2021 saw the fastest start to small business job growth in 23 years, according to the Michigan Bureau of Labor Market Information. Small businesses with less than 50 workers created almost 170,000 jobs statewide.

"Small businesses form the backbone of Michigan’s economy and are the anchors of communities across the state," Whitmer said in the release. "Through tough times, they’ve shown grit and innovation to continue getting things done for their customers and employees." News Advocate

Hollobus Technologies to Locate HQ, Manufacturing and R&D Operations in Murray, Create 150 Jobs With $2.25 Million Investment

Manufacturer of electrical power distribution connectors recently acquired former Briggs & Stratton facility

MURRAY, Ky. (May 25, 2022) – Today, Gov. Andy Beshear joined local officials and representatives from Hollobus Technologies Inc., a new subsidiary of Canada-based engineering design technology company Superior Tray Systems (STS), to announce the company’s $2.25 million investment to locate in Murray and create 150 full-time jobs.

“It is great to see continued economic growth in Western Kentucky as this region recovers and builds back following last year’s devastating tornado,” Gov. Beshear said. “Hollobus is a company that will be a great fit for Murray and Calloway County, and I hope to see it grow for decades to come. Thank you to the leaders at Hollobus for their part in helping build a brighter future in the commonwealth.”

The investment will locate the company’s head office, primary manufacturing operation and an R&D facility at the former Briggs & Stratton location at 110 Main Street in Murray. The project will build out the new Hollobus product line, which serves as an alternative to electrical cabling for major industrial projects and is designed to survive extreme water events. Hollobus leaders have partnered with Murray State University to establish a workforce pipeline and have expressed intent to focus hiring efforts on recently discharged military personnel from nearby Fort Campbell.

“We were initially attracted to Murray, Kentucky, because we were looking for a building in the mid-Southeast United States,” said Mihaela Adams, manager of global business development for Hollobus. “After coming here and working with local officials, we are excited to be part of the Murray community and look forward to having great success here for many years.”

Since 2005, STS has produced electrical power distribution connectors for a range of projects in the U.S., including the City of Boston water treatment facility, high rises in New York City, offshore oil rigs in Texas and various military installations. STS also provided electrical systems for the Richmond-Airport-Vancouver (RAV) Rapid Transit line for the 2010 Winter Olympics and Canadian Navy projects, as well as wind and waterpower inversion systems and mining applications in Central and South America. The company’s green manufacturing and business practices, such as precision molding and product development systems, contribute to a near-zero waste footprint.

Calloway County Judge/Executive Kenny Imes said the company and community will continue to grow together.

“As Calloway County judge/executive, I want to thank all of the many partners who have helped make this possible,” Judge/Executive Imes said. “As a lifelong resident of Calloway County, good jobs for our citizens have always been my top priority. I know that this company will grow and prosper and that our people will be a huge part of their success.”

Murray Mayor Bob Rogers anticipates Hollobus will be successful in West Kentucky.

“I am very pleased to see a progressive, innovative company like Hollobus repurpose the former Briggs & Stratton facility here in Murray. Their products can be used in everything from data centers to high-rise buildings and are literally a new way of helping companies with efficient and cost-effective solutions to their electrical and data needs,” Mayor Rogers said. “I have had the pleasure, through both my role as mayor and a Murray-Calloway Economic Development Corp. board member, to get to know founder Martin Cox and his family and am convinced they will be highly successful in anything they do. This is a very good day for Murray, and I appreciate the many months of work that have gone into making this day possible.”

Murray-Calloway EDC Chair David Graham noted the importance of the skilled jobs being created by the company’s investment.

“We, along with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and TVA, have been working on this project for a number of months. We are proud to see the owners investing in the former Briggs facility to bring it new life for our community,” Graham said. “The skills that will be needed by Hollobus are very familiar to our workforce and include precision metal work, welding and assembly as well as other skills to be learned. We think the future is bright for Hollobus and its owners and pledge to continue doing all we can to assist in their – and our – ultimate success.”

John Bradley, TVA senior vice president of economic development, noted the partnerships needed to make the project possible.

“TVA and Murray Electric Systems congratulate Hollobus Technologies Inc. on its decision to establish operations in Calloway County,” Bradley said. “Supporting companies, like Hollobus, creating new jobs and investment in the region is fundamental to TVA’s mission of service. We are proud to partner with the Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development and Murray-Calloway County Economic Development Corp. to help further that mission and celebrate this announcement together.”

Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: Last week's Professional Edge Workshop

Chamber Member Laura Khalil presented to dozens of fellow BBChamber Members on "How to Build a Highly Referable Business." A wonderful discussion followed the formal presentation. The event was held at Avalon of Bloomfield.

Mclean County Chamber: Walk-Up Job Fair Returns with 40+ Employers

May 17, 2021 — After successful showings in 2021, the McLean County Chamber of Commerce is once again hosting the ever-popular Walk-Up Job Fair on Tuesday, May 24, 11 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., in the former Bergner’s Parking Lot at Eastland Mall, 1615 E. Empire Street, Bloomington. The Walk-Up Job Fair is presented by Express Employment Professionals.

Whether hoping to find a fresh start, a better job, or a new career direction, job seekers will find a wealth of exciting opportunities at this free job fair. Over 40 local employers from a variety of industry sectors are eager to hire for more than 1,300 immediate openings in a wide range of fields. Food will be available for purchase from Gill Street Eatz and Uncle Tony’s Food for the Soul food trucks. The job fair is free and open to all Central Illinois communities.

“We couldn’t be more excited to be the presenter of the Spring Walk-Up Job Fair hosted by the Chamber,” said Matthew Boston, branch manager of Express Employment Professionals Bloomington. “We are focused on helping people succeed – specifically, at work so they can experience more success in life and in living. When we accomplish this, both McLean County businesses and community members win.”

Applicants are encouraged to bring their official ID and several copies of their resume, and dress for success. Many employers will be prepared to interview and make a job offer on the spot.

Participating employers include: Abbey Placements, LLC, Allied Universal, Aston Carter, Avanti's Italian Restaurant – Normal, BEER NUTS Brand Snacks, Brandt Industries USA Ltd., Carle BroMenn Medical Center, CCSI - Case Coordination, LLC, Chestnut Health Systems, Inc., City of Bloomington, CORE 3, CRAFTED Commons, Evergreen FS, Inc., Express Employment Professionals, Fleet Feet Bloomington, Gailey Eye Clinic, Goodwill Industries-Land of Lincoln, Heritage Operations Group, Inc., Identity Optical Labs, Illinois State University, Land of Lincoln Credit Union, Manpower, Marcfirst, McDonald's Restaurants, McLean County 911 Communications Center, McLean County Unit School District No. 5, Mechanical Devices, Neuhoff Media, O'Brien Honda of Bloomington, OSFHealthCare, PeopleReady, PRIDESTAFF, Rader Family Farms, State Farm Insurance Companies, STL Staffing, TENTAC, The Baby Fold, The Chateau Hotel and Conference Center, Town of Normal, U.S. Army Recruiting, Westminster Village, Zentech Bloomington, and more.

For more information, please visit www.mcleancochamber.org or contact Event Services Manager, Jessica Kemp, at 309-829-1188 or jessica@mcleancochamber.org.

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

Tuesday, May 17, 2022

Safety and Health: #Chamberworld info: Suicide prevention: New resource from OSHA

#Chamberworld info: Suicide prevention: New resource from OSHA

In an effort to prevent suicides, OSHA has published a new resource that features tips on how to identify and respond to warning signs.

“Suicide is a leading cause of death among working-age adults in the United States,” the agency says. “It deeply impacts workers, families and communities.”

OSHA’s tips for helping to prevent suicide:
Everyone can help prevent suicide: “Mental health and suicide can be difficult to talk about – especially with work colleagues – but your actions can make a difference. When you work closely with others, you may sense when something is wrong.”
Know the warning signs: “There is no single cause for suicide, but there are warning signs. Changes in behavior, mood or even what they say may signal someone is at risk. Take these signs seriously. It could save a life.”
Ask “Are you OK?”: “If you’re concerned about a co-worker, talk with them privately and listen without judgment. Encourage them to reach out to your employee assistance program, the human resources department or a mental health professional.”
If someone is in crisis, stay with them and get help: “If you believe a co-worker is at immediate risk of suicide, stay with them until you can get further help. Contact emergency services or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline” at (800) 273-TALK (8255). Read more: Safety and Health

Friday, May 13, 2022

Jackson County Chamber: Disney’s Approach to Employee Engagement; Macomb County Chamber: 2022 International Athena Awards; The 2021-2022 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide; Four Batavia High School Seniors Awarded Inspire Scholarships from the Batavia Chamber of Commerce; Mclean County Chamber’s Twin Cities Showcase Makes Return With 75+ Exhibitors; Zero Cost LED Lighting Upgrade for LZACC Members; Virginia Peninsula Chamber: NEW EVENT: State of the Fort (Monroe); Town Square Publications - Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The BEST Publishing Partner in the USA!

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

Jackson County Chamber: Disney’s Approach to Employee Engagement

THE JACKSON COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE WELCOMES DISNEY INSTITUTE TO JACKSON!

This Event is Made Possible by Experience Jackson

Disney Institute is bringing its renowned professional development course, Disney’s Approach to Employee Engagement, to Jackson on Wednesday, 22, June, 2022 at Northwest High School. Organized by the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and made possible by Experience Jackson, the one-day event will help area professionals explore how to design a culture that attracts, develops, engages and rewards high-performing employees.

This day of Disney Institute training uses business insights and time-tested examples from Disney parks and resorts to inspire individuals and organizations to enhance their own customer experience using Disney principles as their guide. Disney’s Approach to Employee Engagement provides participants with relevant illustrations and engaging stories so they can help their own organizations deliver long-term results.

Registration and breakfast will begin at 7:15am. The program will start at 8am and go until 4pm.
Registration is $365 for Chamber members and $395 for non-members and includes all course materials as well as breakfast and lunch.
SPOTS ARE LIMITED TO 200.

©Disney

REGISTER

Macomb County Chamber: 2022 International Athena Awards

What a beautiful celebration of thirteen women in Macomb County doing tremendous work in promoting and mentoring other women! Each nominee is inspiring and such a positive role model for women. Our recipient of this year's award is Coach Diane Laffey from Regina High School. Congratulations Coach Laffey! Fun afternoon celebrating, networking and of course, shopping. Thank you to all who attended! Thank you to our sponsors: 5 Star Outdoors, Beaumont Health, First State Bank, General Dynamics Land Systems, Macomb County Planning and Economic Development, McLaren Macomb, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Southeastern NECA and The PNC Financial Services Group.

The 2021-2022 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide

The 2021-2022 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to Becke Connelly and the chamber team for their help and direction with this publication

VIEW the 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Community Resource Guide

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

Four Batavia High School Seniors Awarded Inspire Scholarships from the Batavia Chamber of Commerce

The Batavia Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the winners of their Inspire Scholarships for 2022. The four scholarship categories are motivated by the makeup of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce membership. All winners are members of the 2022 graduating class of Batavia Public School District 101. The financial award of $750 will be paid directly to the institute the recipient will be attending.

According to Margaret Perreault, president and CEO of Batavia Chamber of Commerce, the scholarship committee was impressed by the number and quality of the applicants for this year’s scholarship program.

“We are happy to support our community with this program,” Ms. Perreault said. “Because we are looking for future inspiring leaders, the scholarship application explored this sentiment. The answers we received were inspirational, making it difficult to choose only one awardee in each category.”

The awardees, their intended college and the scholarship category follows.

Inspiring Entrepreneurship: A scholarship to reward a student who has interest in starting a business to encourage consideration to locate in Batavia someday. Corey Berg is the awardee in this category and will attend Illinois State University as a computer science major. After taking the Incubator class at Batavia High School, Corey created an online custom clothing brand, Limbo Line, which he hopes to continue in college. It is his dream to use his entrepreneurial skills along with the knowledge gained from his major to create a business related to technology, possibly in software development.

Inspiring Women in Business: A scholarship to reward a female high school student interested in a business major to encourage more females to pursue these fields. Sofia Johnson is the awardee in this competitive category and will attend Samford University in pre-business with a concentration in social entrepreneurship. It is her dream to have an ice cream truck that travels across world to bring joy that “overflows through the ice cream I serve.” Sofia cited Batavia Popcorn Depot owner Talitha Mueller as her inspirational woman in business mentor because not only does she sell delicious popcorn, but she also created a place where everyone feels welcome and accepted.

Inspiring Career & Technical Achievers: A scholarship to reward a high school student interested in a trade or career in manufacturing. Bradley Beilfuss is the awardee in this category and will attend Waubonsee Community College to begin his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in Computer Aided Design (CAD). He is interested in automation engineering or design engineering because he would eventually like to invent new products for a company. He says that his current internship through Waubonsee Community College has given him a good idea of what it’s like to work in different engineering fields at a manufacturing facility.

Inspiring Contributors to a Batavia Chamber Business: A scholarship to reward a high school student for working for a Batavia Chamber business during high school. Aisling McGrath is the awardee in this category and plans to attend Bucknell University for accounting with the goal of becoming a CPA. Aisling worked at Green Tree Bookkeeping, owned by Gina Malvestuto, which she credits for confirming her interest in accounting. She says that this experience gave her the confidence to accomplish her goals and thanks Green Tree Bookkeeping for the opportunity to work for a business that is led by strong women.

The four recipients were acknowledged and presented with their checks at Senior Recognition Night at Batavia High School on Wednesday, May 11th.

“We sincerely wish our scholarship winners, along with all the top-notch applicants, much success as they continue their educational journey,” summed Margaret. “Congratulations to all!”

Mclean County Chamber’s Twin Cities Showcase Makes Return With 75+ Exhibitors

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce Twin Cities Showcase, presented by State Farm, returns after a three-year, COVID induced hiatus. Over 75 exhibitors are eager to connect with the McLean County community and inform them about their organization. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of State Farm, the Chamber will be giving away prizes to every 100th attendee and every 100 minutes during the Showcase. Local restaurants will also be in attendance, offering tastings of their menus as a part of the Taste of the Showcase.

The entire community is invited to sample tastings, connect with local businesses and help us celebrate the return of Central Illinois’ premiere business expo.

Thursday, May 12, 2022
10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Illinois State University, Brown Ballroom
200 N. University Street

Zero Cost LED Lighting Upgrade for LZACC Members

OEO Energy Solutions, a proud Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce member, is pleased to offer zero cost Warehouse and Outdoor Lights to replace any existing inefficient fixtures. Simply fill out the following form by June 30th: https://oeoezled.oeo.com/lzacc-led/

These LEDs are perfect for:

· Warehouse

· Factory | Manufacturing

· Big Box Stores

· Gymnasium

· Hospital & Medical

· Sports Court & Stadium Lighting

· Parking Lot Lighting

· Outdoor Security Lighting

· And More

You will receive the lights at absolutely no cost, courtesy of your utility’s sustainability program. The only requirement is that you have an eligible electric utility account and that the number of lights ordered do not exceed the number currently in use.

Attached is a flyer which includes more information.

To get your own FREE LED Lights simply enter the desired quantity & shipping information here:

https://oeoezled.oeo.com/lzacc-led/

QUESTIONS OR ORDERS:

Matt.Poklop@oeo.com

847-847-3997

Virginia Peninsula Chamber: NEW EVENT: State of the Fort (Monroe)

Join the Virginia Peninsula Chamber and Fort Monroe Authority for the
State of the Fort (Monroe)!

A brand new event highlighting the Fort's historic preservation, economic impact, key business development initiatives, current challenges, and a glimpse into the future of Fort Monroe!

The event will include walking tours around the Fort, networking, and a presentation. This event is FREE and open to both Members and Non-Members. Event Sponsors are invited to a private Sponsors Reception after the program.

Register today to learn more about the past, present, and future of Fort Monroe!

REGISTER TODAY!
Normal, IL 61761

Town Square Publications - Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The BEST Publishing Partner in the USA!

Tuesday, May 10, 2022

The Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Germantown Announce a New Partnership Which Will Enhance Both Organizations’ Already Successful Programming; Dubuque Chamber of Commerce: Inside the Chamber Lobby: LEGISLATIVE UPDATE; Is Your Michigan Business Export Ready? A Conversation with the Michigan Small Business Development Center; WELCOME HOME - The Nation's Premier New Resident Marketing Program for Your Chamber Members; Midland Area Farmers Market opens for 2022 season this weekend at Dow Diamond; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles

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

The Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Germantown Announce a New Partnership Which Will Enhance Both Organizations’ Already Successful Programming

The Germantown Area Chamber of Commerce has entered into an agreement with Leadership Germantown to work in partnership on their already successful leadership development program. Leadership Germantown will become a program of the Germantown Chamber and will continue to offer leadership skills enhancement and community awareness building to develop leaders within the Germantown community.

While both organizations are already well-established and successful, (The Germantown Chamber recently celebrated its 40th Anniversary. Leadership Germantown has celebrated 20 years as a self-sufficient, stand-alone organization run entirely by volunteers.) this collaboration offers advantages to both. The Germantown Chamber will be adding value to membership in programming and Leadership Germantown will be able to utilize Chamber resources to raise awareness and recruit class participants.

This partnership is a natural fit for these two organizations as the initiative for Leadership Germantown was brought to fruition by several directors of the Germantown Chamber of Commerce in the late 1990’s who saw a need for the development of future leaders who would contribute to the advancement of the Germantown community and within their professional workplace. Many communities’ Chambers of Commerce have a leadership development program.

Today every organization needs to continue to provide value if it wants to continue to grow. They also need involved and engaged individuals to help do the work. As staffing shortages have crippled business, it has also affected their ability to commit their employees to representing the business in the community. There is also a shortage of volunteers.

This partnering of the Germantown Chamber of Commerce and Leadership Germantown provides the opportunity to share each other’s unique resources and strengthen their ability to continue offering value to members and quality programming to participants.

“The Germantown Chamber of Commerce is honored to be able to partner with an organization as successful and respected as Leadership Germantown. As an alumnus of Leadership Germantown, Class of 2007, I am familiar with the quality content of the skills development/enhancement and appreciative of the community awareness component. It will be exciting to see what new possibilities this opens for the Germantown community,” said Lynn Grgich, Executive Director of the Germantown Chamber of Commerce.

Leadership Board Member Scott Hefle shared, “Leadership Germantown plays an important role in developing leaders for its supporting sponsors and companies, along with creating goodwill in the Germantown community through class community projects. I have been involved with Leadership for almost 12 years on the board, and am also a graduate of the second class, Class of 2002. Our board is very appreciative of the tremendous support the Germantown Chamber has given us over our 20+ year history, and we believe this symbiotic partnership will further expand our reach to the community and Chamber members.”

Kevin Nash, Board Member since 2000 and a Leadership alumni offered, “Leadership Germantown has played an important role in the growth of Germantown since its inception in 2000. Linking everyday citizens, local businesses, and governmental agencies have allowed them to work collaboratively in understanding the needs of our growing community. Many longtime residents who have participated were surprised how much more they learned about the Village. Leadership Germantown also works to develop the base of local volunteers. You would be hard pressed to find a volunteer organization within the Village such as Kiwanis, Oktoberfest, the local 4th of July festivities which doesn’t have a Leadership Germantown alumnus. Get involved; Germantown needs you! We invite you to participate in the Leadership Germantown program!”

For more information contact the Germantown Chamber office for details and to register. For more information about the Germantown Chamber of Commerce, the Leadership Germantown program or upcoming class, visit www.germantownchamber.org or send an email to executivedirector@germantownchamber.org or call the Chamber at 262-255-1812.

Dubuque Chamber of Commerce: Inside the Chamber Lobby: LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Last Monday, City Council approved city staff to draft a referendum to bring to the voters regarding an updated Five Flags Civic Center, set for March 2023. An the amount for the referendum will be set at a later date Dubuque City Council also approved the appointment of Amy Scheller as the incoming Fire Chief. Scheller previously served as Deputy Fire Chief in Naperville, IL.

The Senate debated on Monday last week, and the House held no floor debate. On Monday, Governor Reynolds signed 26 bills into law. The complete list of bills signed can be found here.

The Senate passed eight bills, most of which were human resources related, including House File 2127. HF 2127 creates a new code subsection allowing child care providers to collect the difference between the state child care assistance reimbursement rate and the rate the provider would typically charge a private-pay family, provided the provider and family agree to the additional payments. HF 2127 is the second childcare-related bill to be sent to the Governor this session. In April, the legislature also approved House File 2198, which allows 16-year-olds to work in childcare centers without supervision and increases the adult staff member to child ratios. The Chamber supported the ratio bill and the legislation allowing 16-year-olds to work without supervision.

The Iowa Legislature held the first inaugural slow-pitch softball game on Sunday, with Governor Reynolds throwing the first pitch. House and Senate Democrats raised money for the Iowa Food Bank Association, and House and Senate Republicans raised money for the Puppy Jake Foundation. Over $27,000 total was raised for the two organizations. Republicans defeated the Democrats with a final score of 27-16.

This week, Senate and House leadership will continue to work towards a final agreement on the Fiscal Year 2023 budget and remaining policy priorities, including the Governor’s education bill.

The Chamber has engaged the BAC to discuss potential engagement regarding the USICA/America COMPETES conference committee. This legislation will impact trade regulations and potentially impact the current supply chain issues driving up consumer and business prices. Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) were appointed as conferees.

Feel free to reach out to Ryan Sempf, VP Government & External Affairs with any questions:
RSempf@DubuqueChamber.com
(319) 270-7462

HEADLINES from the Dubuque Chamber

Iowa Democrats offered to change the caucus process Wednesday, part of a bid to retain the state’s first-in-the-nation status amid opposition from the national party. The DNC voted last month to reconsider the presidential nominating calendar, potentially knocking Iowa from the lead-off spot. The new calendar will prioritize diversity, competitiveness in a general election and the fairness, inclusivity and transparency of the process. States, including Iowa, may apply for an early spot. More from the Iowa Capitol Dispatch on Iowa and New Hampshire's bids to remain first.

Dubuque City Council members on Monday approved taking an expansion proposal for Five Flags Center to voters next year. Council members voted, 5-2, to have city staff draft language for a public vote on March 7 asking residents if up to $92 million should be borrowed to fund the project, following a recommendation made last week by the city’s Civic Center Commission. Council Members Danny Sprank and David Resnick cast the votes in opposition. The proposal calls for the demolition of the current Five Flags Center and the construction of a larger facility that expands across West Fifth Street and increases the number of seats to 6,400, along with making improvements to Five Flags Theater. The Chamber has not taken a position on the referendum at this date. More from the TH.

At a press conference Monday, chamber leaders from Wausau, Stevens Point, Wisconsin Rapids and Marshfield said workforce shortages experienced across the state are especially acute in the central region. Statewide, Wisconsin's unemployment rate hit a record low of 2.8 percent in March, and the state’s labor participation rate of more than 66 percent is well above the national average. And the unemployment rate in recent years has tended to be lower and the labor force participation rate higher in central Wisconsin than the statewide averages. More from Wisconsin Public Radio.

Dubuque Zoning Advisory Commission members voted, 6-0, to recommend rezoning an 80-acre parcel, on which developers propose constructing 105 single-family dwellings. The parcel is located just off the Northwest Arterial, near West 32nd Street and Tiffany Court. The development will feature homes varying in size from 925 to 1,830 square feet, with prices ranging from the $200,000s to the mid-$300,000s and will come pre-wired for an electric vehicle charging station and pre-engineered for solar panel installations if desired. The structures will operate entirely on electricity, utilize LED lighting and building materials made from recycled content and have driveways made with permeable materials. Switch Homes presents an innovative solution to help meet the growing demand for affordable housing in the Dubuque area. More from the TH.

Is Your Michigan Business Export Ready? A Conversation with the Michigan Small Business Development Center

Alyssa Tracey, director of the MEDC International Trade program, speaks with Josh Billington, Assistant State Director of Strategic Innovation operations with the Michigan Small Business Development Center, on how small businesses can gain success by expanding to global markets.

International trade supports Michigan's economy more than almost any other state in the country. 33% of Michigan’s GDP comes from inbound and outbound trade, ranking No. 4 nationally. Overall, Michigan businesses achieved $55 billion in export sales in 2021.

So how can Michigan connect with export partners in international markets and experience the average 17% increase in profitability? Alyssa Tracey, director of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) International Trade program, and Josh Billington, Assistant State Director of Strategic Innovation operations with the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC), discuss how small businesses can get “export ready” and be prepared for success in accessing new markets around the world.

See below for excerpts and key insights from the conversation and watch the full 20-minute conversation to learn more.

Getting Export Ready with the Michigan Small Businesses Development Center

Alyssa Tracey: What are some ways that your team at SBDC can help companies determine if they're ready to take this next step and exporting?

Josh Billington: Here at the SBDC we have consultants all throughout the state, servicing all 83 counties in Michigan. The first place to start is to register on our website www.michigansbdc.org. We provide an early export online assessment to determine where your company is in starting the export journey. We've developed an online training module packed with resources to help businesses explore and get a better grasp of what's involved in getting their company involved in exporting. The training module is packed with good templates and resources. From there we connect you with one of our 10 export certified consultants, and help you start developing a business plan and a marketing plan to get you ready.

Tracey: What are some steps that your team takes to help businesses along within the module?

Billington: We discuss starting with developing an export business plan, reviewing the financials and the profit worthiness of your company, if you're in a good spot to start expanding into different markets. Then we start to develop expenses, or how much it would cost, to help you explore what it would cost to ship to certain countries. We help guide companies to get to the point to where they will be in a good spot to export.

Tracey: In your experience working with small businesses, do you have any examples or lessons learned that small business owners have shared with you, that could be helpful to other small business owners?

Billington: As a consultant, we find that a lot of folks will get very caught up in selling the product, getting the merchandise out, and let the business side of things go a little bit. Some of the best pieces of advice that we've come across is that when people really do sit down and dedicate a certain amount of time to work on their business, they're a whole lot more successful.
In addition to that, knowing your numbers is huge. Understanding financial statements and keeping good track of all the financials in your business helps give a good measurable to what is really going on, as opposed to how you feel things are going on. The quantitative analysis in the numbers is extremely important to learn.

Tracey: Can you tell us a bit more about the work your team does to help small businesses with website SEO?

Billington: One of the major export projects that we do is our international SEO. We have a team of graduate student assistants at Grand Valley State University that help evaluate your website and get it prepared for foreign markets. From there, usually the best next step is to refer you to MEDC for MI-STEP Grant Funding.

It makes a nice transition of preparing your website and marketing materials, reviewing your products, pricing, export costs and fees all associated with that. Then getting the client ready to refer them to our partners at MEDC.

Finding the Right Resources Through the MEDC International Trade Team - Read more: Michigan Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mailed monthly to new movers from the previous 30 days!

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

Arlington Heights Chamber Welcome Home Magazine

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

Midland Area Farmers Market opens for 2022 season this weekend at Dow Diamond

The Market operates on Wednesdays and Saturdays from early May through mid-November.

For the health and safety of our customers and vendors, no pets are allowed in the Market.

2022 Market Season

Opening day will be Saturday, May 7, 2022. The Midland Area Farmers Market will be located at Dow Diamond East parking lot for the 2022 season.

2022 Season & Hours

May 7 – October 29
7 AM – 1 PM on Wednesdays & Saturdays

First three Saturdays in November
9 AM – 12 NOON

2022 Market Information

One of the main goals of the Midland Area Farmers Market is to assist small businesses and entrepreneurs by offering them a vibrant place to sell their homemade and homegrown products.

The application window to apply to be a vendor in 2022 has closed. Thank you for your interest!

Please note: Multi-level marketing (MLM) companies of any kind are not permitted in our market at this time.

Rules & Regulations

View the 2022 MAFM Vendor Rules & Regulations.

Payment Options

The Midland Area Farmers Market is proud to partner with Isabella Bank to offer the token program for patrons to use their debit, credit or Bridge card. We will also be offering the Double Up Food Bucks Program again, which allows shoppers to get extra dollars to spend on Michigan-grown produce when using a Bridge card.

All types of tokens can be purchased at the Isabella Bank booth.

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

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!