Showing posts with label ACCE. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ACCE. Show all posts

Wednesday, March 2, 2022

ACCE: Chamber of the Year; Mendy McAdams Joins the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce as Executive Director; Illinois Chambers All In for Economic Recovery Coalition: Via the Manteno Chamber: The Unemployment Trust Fund: Quad Cities Chamber CEO to step down in March; Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the United States Chamber of Commerce to Visit Sauk Valley for Lunch and Learn; Job Opening: Clinton Chamber: President & CEO - $100,000-$140,000 annually; Executive Director - Greater Franklin County Area Chamber of Commerce Hampton, IA - From $45,000 a year; 2021 inductees to Iowa Business Hall of Fame are announced; 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!

 ACCE: Chamber of the Year

Chamber of the Year
If your chamber plans to compete for Chamber of the Year, sponsored by Personify, the first step is to complete the survey questions in Dynamic Chamber Benchmarking by Friday, April 1. Chambers meeting the minimum requirements will be notified and invited to proceed with the application process. If you have questions or need to set up an account to access the benchmarking platform, contact Will Burns at wburns@acce.org. Learn more about Chamber of the Year's process, timeline and judging criteria by registering for the Tuesday, March 15 interest webinar.


Mendy McAdams Joins the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce as Executive Director


The Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce that Mendy McAdams has been hired to be the Executive Director of the Chamber.

Mendy has spent the last three years as the Assistant Director at the Fairfield Arts & Convention Center. In addition to her event planning and nonprofit experience at the Convention Center, she has also been involved with numerous activities through The Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce.

Mendy will begin her official duties as Executive Director beginning on Monday, February 21st, 2022. Details regarding a meet and greet opportunity will be forthcoming. We could not be more excited for the future of the Chamber and the Fairfield Community. Mendy not only brings a wealth of experience but also has a passion for the Fairfield Community.

The mission of the Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce is to lead our business community to greater success by connecting our members, engaging our community and prospering together.

Fairfield Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Illinois Chambers All In for Economic Recovery Coalition: Via the Manteno Chamber: The Unemployment Trust Fund: 

To our members:

The Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund is the state's financial reserve for unemployment claims. When the COVID - 19 pandemic forced many businesses to lay off or terminate employees, the number of unemployment claims skyrocketed. The uncertainty of the pandemic timeline and increased system fraud left a void in the trust fund that required federal assistance to help maintain benefits.

Today, the Unemployment Insurance Trust Fund faces a $4.5 billion deficit. If not addressed by November 2022, millions of dollars more in interest will be levied onto the fund. Resolving the deficit must be the top priority for the Illinois legislature. Without action, businesses across the state will see higher taxes and those people seeking unemployment benefits will have their benefit duration and amount reduced. The growing deficit will impact businesses of all sizes and industries and further stunt economic recovery.

Illinois has an opportunity to address this deficit using the one - time American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding from the federal government. The state can put all remaining ARPA dollars into the fund to offset the deficit to help prevent higher taxes on the business community. The Manteno Chamber is a member of Chambers All - In for Economic Recovery. This Coalition is 40 chambers strong from every corner of the state advocating for policy, legislation, and regulation to help Illinois businesses recover from the pandemic.  Addressing the UI Trust Fund deficit is a top priority for Chambers All In for Economic Recovery Coalition.

As part of the Coalition's platform for action, we want to make your voice, concerns and story heard. Suppose your business was affected by COVID - 19 related induced layoffs/terminations, or you have problems resulting from inaction on the unemployment trust fund. In that case, we ask you to share your story.

The Chambers All In Coalition is putting this call forward to businesses from across the state as there is great power in numbers and businesses' voices are particularly powerful. Your story may be part of a campaign urging our legislators to address this critical issue. Should you be willing to share your story publicly, we ask that you submit this brief form here. Your business' name and other identifying information are entirely optional. We must help elected officials understand how your business and workforce have been or will be impacted by a growing deficit in the trust fund.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Sincerely,
Sarah Marion

The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber 2022 Voice of Business

The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber 2022 Voice of Business is available at the Chamber today! Thanks to Cynthia Schneider 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.


Quad Cities Chamber CEO to step down in March

The Quad Cities Chamber Monday announced president and CEO will be moving to a new position at CCIM Institute.

Paul Rumler will be moving to a new role as the Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice President of CCIM Institute, the Quad Cities Chamber said in a media release.

Rumler will be with the Chamber tell the middle of March, the Chamber said.

Headquartered is in Chicago, CCIM Institute is a global membership association serving the commercial real estate community through networking, technology and providing the industry’s gold standard in education.

“It has been a privilege to serve the Quad Cities region and work with a talented Chamber team to help create a more prosperous regional economy,” said Rumler. “I’m excited to join CCIM Institute and help guide this world class organization.”

Under Rumler’s leadership, the Quad Cities Chamber said it has landed Amazon, the largest economic development project in the QC’s history, expanded placemaking services to include Bettendorf and Rock Island, created talent attraction marketing and inclusion initiatives, including Leadership QC and helped thousands of businesses navigate the pandemic.

“We are grateful for Paul’s leadership and wish him well in his new endeavor, knowing that we have a life-long QC supporter and friend,” said A.J. Loss, Chamber Board Chair and CEO of Bush Construction. “Paul is leaving the Quad Cities Chamber on sound financial footing with a solid blueprint for the future rooted in talent attraction and development, business and economic growth and placemaking.”

The chamber said Dr. Mike Oberhaus, Chief Strategy Officer, will serve as the Chamber’s Interim CEO role as a national search is conducted for a new leader.

“I’m honored and humbled to serve as an interim leader of the Quad Cities Chamber,” said Oberhaus. “We have an amazing team of dedicated professionals who work each day to make our QC region better.”

Oberhaus previously served as the Superintendent of the Rock Island-Milan School District #41 before joining the Chamber in 2019.

“The Quad Cities Chamber is in a great position to find a passionate and capable professional to lead us into the future,” said Dr. LaDrina Wilson, Chamber Board Vice Chair and CEO of IMAN Consulting. “We’re committed to finding the right person to represent our region and help us reach our audacious goals of growing our region’s GDP and economy, as well as engaging more businesses.”

The chamber said Rumbler has served as the President and CEO of the Quad Cities Chamber since April 2018. Read more: KWQC,com


Illinois Chamber of Commerce and the United States Chamber of Commerce to Visit Sauk Valley for Lunch and Learn

 

Sterling, Illinois – The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and U.S. Chamber of Commerce for a legislative update on Tuesday, April 12. SVACC members and community members are invited to attend.

Andrew Cunningham, Manager of Legislative Relations, Illinois Chamber of Commerce and Ryan Gleason, Manager of Great Lakes Region Office, will share legislative updates on what is happening at state and federal levels. Andrew and Ryan have extensive knowledge about key legislative issues. Area Legislators have also been invited to attend and provide insight from their prospective.

 The Legislative Update Lunch and Learn will be held on Tuesday, April 12 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The event will be held at Candlelight Inn, 220 1st Ave, Rock Falls, IL. The cost to attend is $25.00 for SVACC members and $30.00 for non-members, which will include lunch.

 There are many challenges and opportunities facing our area right now. The SVACC believes it is important to offer these informative updates to our Sauk Valley community as we work together to impact change and be a voice for rural Illinois.

For questions or to register, please contact the Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce at 815-625-2400 or register online at saukvalleyareachamber.com

 


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!


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


Job Opening in #chamberworld: Clinton, IA Chamber: President & CEO -  $100,000-$140,000 annually

President & CEO Position Summary
The Greater Clinton Partners for Growth (Grow Clinton), a 501(c)(6) non-profit community and economic development organization is looking for an energetic visionary with demonstrated leadership skills to grow the organization and the municipalities/counties which we serve. The President /CEO the position is a new position that will guide the new Grow Clinton organization, which has been formed as a result of the consolidation of the Clinton Regional Development Corporation, the Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce and the Clinton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.

The following is an overview of the position:
• The President shall be the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Greater Clinton Partners for Growth for the full range of its activities.
• The President & CEO shall provide leadership to the organization and the communities to develop and deliver programs that support business growth and enhance the region’s vitality while promoting our core values.
• The President & CEO shall serve as Secretary of the Corporation and the Board of Directors.
• The President & CEO shall serve as an advisor to the Chair and Chair-Elect on program planning, assemble information and data, and prepare special reports directed by the Strategic Plan of Grow Clinton.
• The President & CEO shall be a non-voting member of the Board of Directors, the Executive Committee, and all other committees and task forces.

Key Responsibilities
• Position Grow Clinton as a leading force for progress in the Clinton Region by building partnerships with county, city, state, school, post-secondary educational institutions, utilities, elected officials, strategic partners, and stakeholders.
• Provide leadership in developing Grow Clinton’s multi-year strategic and annual business plans.
• Strengthen Grow Clinton by enhancing membership investment, engaging the membership, developing key strategic initiatives, and providing the resources to support them.
• Manage the organization’s operations, including overseeing the management of budgets and finances, staff, Board of Directors and volunteers, and implementation of Grow Clinton’s strategic and business plans.
• Identify community needs and develop programs designed to meet goals.
• Motivate staff and volunteers to accomplish organizational activities.
• With the assistance of the committee chairpersons, the President shall be responsible for administering the strategic plan per the policies and regulations of the Board of Directors.
• Coordinating with the Board of Directors and associated committees, the President shall manage all financial activities of Grow Clinton, including affiliated organizations and special funds. Prepare an annual operating budget, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors. Monitor income and all expenditures within approved budget allocation. Prepare periodic financial reports for the Board, Arrange for an annual audit to review financial information, and prepare a yearly report for Greater Clinton Partners for Growth.
• Hire and discharge staff members when necessary. Lead and provide training to staff and assign work responsibilities to appropriate staff members and provide staff training programs. Evaluate team for efficiency and performance annually, including salary reviews and fringe benefit packages.
• Meet regularly with the Board of Directors to advise on the progress of the strategic plan, community and organization issues. Maintain accurate records of these meetings and actions taken. Assist the Board in formulating policy and interpreting board policy to the staff, committees, and community as appropriate.
• To serve as the Chief Official Spokesperson of Grow Clinton.
• Fulfill all the legal obligations of Greater Clinton Partners for Growth per the bylaws and all applicable federal, state, and local laws.
• All other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors Major Initiatives
• In concert with strategic partners, support the development of a community vision plan to guide economic and community development efforts.
• Establish close working relationships with city and county governments and strengthen local government.
• Strong focus on Business Retention and Expansion
• Emphasis on business attraction and recruitment
• Develop programs that support workforce development
• Have a defined process that supports entrepreneurship
• Support community development initiatives that enhance the quality of life and livability of the Clinton area (housing, amenities, gateway corridors, educational institutions)
• Actively support the revitalization of crucial gateway corridors and business districts by ensuring sound planning and aggressive implementation.
• Develop increasing tourism through effective marketing and sales efforts.
• Strengthen Grow Clinton by growing the number of investors and members, engaging them, and developing more revenue supporting Grow Clinton programs and initiatives.

Experience
• Leadership and strong people skills in medium to small Mid-West communities
• 3-5 years of experience and/or a successful track record of accomplishment with Economic Development and/or Chamber organizations.
• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field or equivalent experience
• Passion for improving the economic viability of the community
• A record of developing thriving community and economic development strategies
• Experience with successful business recruitment, retention, expansion, creation efforts
• Developing workforce development programs
• Successful membership investment development and fund-raising initiatives
• Knowledge of city, county, state, and federal legislative processes and public-private funding partnerships and issues that affect the region and state
• Familiarity and understanding of transportation issues
• Experience with successful business recruitment, retention, expansion, creation efforts
• Demonstrated ability to manage finances and human resources (hiring, firing,
development/training, compensation, and performance appraisals)
• Record of successfully managing Board of Directors, volunteer committees, and task-forces
• Knowledge and ability to successfully support the marketing, sales efforts of a Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB)
• Ability to develop strategic planning, goals setting, action plans, budgeting, staffing plans
• Previous experience constructively working with quality-of-life issues (i.e., schools and beautification projects)

Salary/Bonus/Benefits
• $100,000-$140,000 annually
• Paid time off and bonus opportunities are available
• Insurance and benefits in addition to salary

Confidentiality and Equality Statement
We fully respect the need for confidentiality of the information supplied by interested parties. We assure them that their background and interest will not be discussed with anyone without prior consent, nor will reference contacts be made until mutual interest has been established. Greater Clinton Partners for Growth firmly represents the principles and philosophy of equal opportunity for all individuals regardless of race, sex, creed, disability, or national origin. Interested individuals can submit resume and cover letter to: Bob Henningsen @ Smart Solutions Group, via e-mail at bob@smartsolutionsgroup.net. Any questions feel free to contact Bob @ 515-238-2697

Download Job Description. 

 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.





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.

Executive Director - Greater Franklin County Area Chamber of Commerce - Hampton, IA - From $45,000 a year -

 

We are looking for an experienced Executive Director to oversee all operations, functions and activities. You will be the face of the organization, responsible for giving the proper strategic direction and implementing a high quality vision. An excellent executive director is an influential manager with ability to lead and motivate. They have great communication skills and take a holistic approach in managing the organization’s operations. The goal is to manage and lead the organization towards the realization of its mission.

Responsibilities

  • Develop and implement strategies aiming to promote the organization’s mission and “voice”
  • Create complete business plans for the attainment of goals and objectives set by the board of directors
  • Build an effective team of leaders by providing guidance and coaching to subordinate managers
  • Ensure adherence of the organization’s daily activities and long-term plans to established policies and legal guidelines
  • Direct and oversee investments and fundraising efforts
  • Forge and maintain relations of trust with shareholders, partners and external authorities
  • Act as the public speaker and public relations representative of the company in ways that strengthen its profile
  • Review reports by subordinate managers to acquire understanding of the organization’s financial and non-financial position
  • Devise remedial actions for any identified issues and conduct crisis management when necessary

Skills

  • Proven experience as executive director or in other managerial position
  • Experience in developing strategies and plans
  • Ability to apply successful fundraising and networking techniques
  • Strong understanding of corporate finance and measures of performance
  • In depth knowledge of corporate governance principles and managerial best practices
  • An analytical mind capable for “out-of-the-box” thinking to solve problems
  • Outstanding organization and leadership abilities
  • Excellent communication (oral and written) and public speaking skills
  • MSc/MA in business administration or relevant field

  2021 inductees to Iowa Business Hall of Fame are announced

The Greater Des Moines Committee, a group of 120 local business leaders, has announced the 2021 inductees to the Iowa Business Hall of Fame. They are:

Dr. Angela Walker Franklin, Des Moines University’s 15th president. Franklin, named the university’s president in 2011, has held senior administrative positions at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., and Meharry Medical College in Nashville, Tenn. Since becoming president of Des Moines University, Franklin has published a university history titled “Now Is the Time, Des Moines Is the Place,” launched the $50 million Purple & Proud fundraising campaign and led efforts to design a new campus in West Des Moines. Franklin is widely involved in the Greater Des Moines community, serving on the boards of Bankers Trust, the Greater Des Moines Partnership and the Harkin National Advisory Council.

Bill Lillis, who was managing partner of the Des Moines law firm of Lillis O’Malley Olson Manning Pose Templeman LLP. Lillis died in 2019. His specialty was complex real estate transactions. He began his professional legal career at the Polk County Attorney’s Office in 1968, and two years later joined the firm that would eventually bear his name. He was recognized several times by Best Lawyers in America, Chambers USA, Super Lawyers and Martindale Hubbell. Lillis was instrumental in real estate and zoning work throughout the Greater Des Moines community and had the ability to bring people together. His insights and connections have been described as influencing nearly every significant real estate venture in Central Iowa. Organizations Lillis was involved with include Anawim Housing and Dowling Catholic Foundation.

Mike Wells, CEO and chief engagement officer at Wells Enterprises in Le Mars. Wells began working in the family business in 1977 as a route driver while working his way through college. He joined the Blue Bunny sales force in 1981. He has held several positions in the company that eventually led to being named president and CEO in 2007. During Wells’ tenure as CEO, the ice cream company has experienced explosive growth and performance improvements. Wells serves on the International Dairy Foods Association Executive Council and is chair of the International Dairy Foods Association ice cream segment board, chair of the Siouxland Initiative board and vice chair of the Le Mars Chamber of Commerce.

The inductees will be honored during the Greater Des Moines Committee’s Annual Induction Event on May 4. For more information about the event, click here.

This chamber job openings positions From Glenn Shepard: www.Glennshepard.com


Muscatine, IA – Added 2/15/22
Greater Muscatine Chamber of Commerce and Industry
100 West Second Street
Muscatine, IA 52761
www.muscatine.com
Position: President/CEO
Notes: Erik Reader is stepping down.

 

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!


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, February 3, 2022

Bartoszek named Chair Elect for WCCE state association board; ACCE: Application Deadline: Sales Coach Program; Join the Sponsorship team for the long awaited 25th Anniversary Double Decker Spring Run!; Dubuque Area Chamber: Iowa Workforce Development Survey: Your input is needed!; Wisconsin Added 6,300 Jobs in December; Kentucky State Parks Plan for Camper Appreciation 2022; Chamber collaboration: Officials give support of Manistee's Hampton Inn project; Indiana CANstruction Competition winners announced; Arlington Chamber of Co mmerce Legislative Breakfast; Effingham County Community MAPPING Program


Bartoszek named Chair Elect for WCCE state association board




Becky Bartoszek, President/CEO, Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce, has been named chair-elect for the Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (WCCE) Board of Advisors.

WCCE is the state’s professional association of local chambers of commerce. Its mission is to advance the management skills and experience of its members in order to help them work with the challenges chambers face. WCCE is a program of Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) – the state chamber.

Bartoszek will serve as chair elect for two years then assume the role of chair for the WCCE, where she will lead its Board of Advisors. She has been a WCCE advisory board member for 2 years, where she collaborates with other Chamber executives from around the state to ensure Wisconsin Chambers continue to help business and local communities thrive.

She also serves on the board of directors for ACCE, the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, an international group of more than 9,000 professionals who work for and with more than 1,600 chambers of commerce around the world.

Additionally she is on the board of directors for the New North; Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce; and Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Bartoszek is also a member of the Community Health Action Team. She currently is appointed by Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers to the Advisory Council on Workforce Investment.


ACCE: Application Deadline: Sales Coach Program


Feb. 8 | LEARN MORE
ACCE is now accepting applications for its six-month sales coach program in which experienced chamber membership development volunteers will be matched with professionals who are new to chamber sales for regular advice, coaching and problem-solving. Click here for the application. Interested in being a coach? Click here.


Join the Sponsorship team for the long awaited 25th Anniversary Double Decker Spring Run!

The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce is excited to finally celebrate the 25th Annual Double Decker Spring Run. This year’s 10K Run, 5K Run, and Kids Fun Run are scheduled for Saturday, April 23rd, and we want you to be involved in this long awaited return of the race!

The Chamber’s signature race is excited to announce a partnership with Oxford Ortho & Sports Medicine as our new exclusive presenting sponsor for our 25th anniversary event! Our race topped over 1,700 racers in 2019, with runners who came to Oxford from all around the country, and we expect that number to continue to climb this year.

The Double Decker Weekend is packed with events like the Double Decker Festival, the Grove Bowl, and the Ole Miss vs. MSU baseball series. Add that to our two new race courses that take you past iconic Oxford landmarks and the standing tradition of a top-notch race experience, this is a weekend you do not want to miss being a part of!

If you are interested in getting involved on any of the following levels, please contact Pam Swain by Wednesday, March 9th at pam@oxfordms.com However, please note the earlier your sponsorship is confirmed, the sooner your benefits and promotion will begin. So to get the most out of your sponsorship dollars and commit early.

Email Pam Swain to Sponsor


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

Oak Creek and Franklin - A guide to the South Suburban Region 2020  is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Sarah Anderson and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 



Oak Creek and Franklin - A Guide to the South Suburban Region 2020

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.



 Dubuque Area Chamber: Iowa Workforce Development Survey: Your input is needed!

Dear Valued Members and Investors,

On behalf of the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Dubuque Development Corporation we are sending you a survey from Iowa Workforce Development (IWD).  They have requested that their short survey be shared with our members and investors for your feedback.  Please use the link below to go directly to the IWD survey.  Please note the deadline to complete and submit your survey to their office is noon on January 21st, 2022. 

Any questions regarding the survey can be directed to Marla Loecke, IWD Operations Manager for Dubuque and Decorah at Marla.loecke@iwd.Iowa.gov.
 
Thank you for your attention and consideration.

Sincerely, 


Molly Grover, President & CEO                                     
Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce                     


Rick Dickinson, President & CEO
Greater Dubuque Development Corporation
 


Wisconsin Added 6,300 Jobs in December

Combined with the gains from October and November, Wisconsin added 20,500 jobs in the past three months. Over the past year, Wisconsin has added 67,200 jobs.
Employment at the end of December remained 99,500 jobs below the pre-pandemic level of February 2020, a decline of 3.3%.
Among the sectors adding jobs in December, the manufacturing sector added 4,800 jobs, 3,500 of which were in durable goods manufacturing. Wholesale trade added 1,900 jobs.
The private sector added 5,300 jobs total and government added 1,000 new jobs.
The unemployment rate declined to 2.8% and the labor force participation rate remained at 66.4%.
Further detail can be found in the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development's release: Wisconsin Labor Force Summary December 2021.



Kentucky State Parks Plan for Camper Appreciation 2022

Some Kentucky State Park campgrounds will be hosting the annual Camper Appreciation Weekend and now is the time to start making reservations! The weekend of April 29 - May 1 campers get two nights of camping for the price of one. This deal fills up quickly as the dates draw near so find a Kentucky State Park campground now and start planning your next great outdoor adventure.



Chamber collaboration: Officials give support of Manistee's Hampton Inn project



A majority of people who spoke during a recent public hearing for the Hampton Inn in Manistee were in favor of the project.

A Commercial Rehabilitation District for the hotel, which is planned for 101 Lakeshore Drive, was unanimously approved by the Manistee City Council Tuesday during its regularly scheduled meeting.

A public hearing was held for citizens to speak about the project. Four of five people spoke in support of the project in its current iteration.

Gini Pelton, of Manistee, said she was happy with the project.

"Even if you are adjusting the taxes for this type of development, I believe it is still a win-win situation for our community. We will still be getting all of the resources that they're going to bring to our community back into our community," Pelton said.

She noted the amount of money that the city was able to collect in taxes on the former Lakeshore Motel, which was located on the same property, is nowhere near the amount of taxes that the Hampton Inn will generate when it is completed.

"Everything they're going to develop down there will be good. And for those who maybe aren't aware 101 S. Lakeshore (Drive) when it was a motel was paying taxes at the rate of around a $200,000 home in the community or less; I didn't get a chance to look up the exact numbers today. So if you think you're losing money on the deal, you're not losing money. We're always we're going to be ahead of this game that water and sewer ... jobs ... everything. Anyway, I totally support this."

Of the three others who spoke, all hand a part in the project getting off the ground: Manistee County Board of Commission chair and Economic Development Council chair Jeff Dontz; Marc Miller, director of Economic Development for the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce; and Peter Beukema of Hotel Ventures Manistee LLC., the development company for the project.

Read more: Manistee News

 

Indiana CANstruction Competition winners announced

The votes are in, and our judges have spoken—so now, on this icy Thursday afternoon, here is the moment you’ve been waiting for:

In total, State of Indiana agencies collected an outstanding 21,615 cans for our community food pantries! And your teams submitted 50 unique Canstructions to our panel of judges, consisting of Governor Eric J. Holcomb’s office, Indiana State Personnel Department Director Matt Brown, and a special guest food pantry judge.

BEST STRUCTURE

Several honorable mentions battled it out for the 2022 Canstruction “Best Structure” award. Notably, DOC Wabash’s Converse high top, INDOT’s “Duck Hunt,” BMV team’s “Keep On Trucking” Semi, and the Hoosier Lottery’s “Powerball Sees His Shadow.”

But the winner of the 2022 “Best Structure” award is… Indiana State Fair Commission with their impressive and intricate re-Canstruction of the Indiana Farmers Coliseum.





MOST CANS COLLECTED

The runners up for “Most Cans Collected” are the Department of Correction’s “Team WVCF” with 1,626 cans and the Department of Labor’s “Labor Can” with 2,143 cans. But Canstruction 2022’s “Most Cans Collected” award also goes to the State Fair Commission’s “Indiana State Fair” with 2,864 cans collected in just two weeks.

VIEW THE ENTRIES

Using canned goods, art supplies, and teamwork, the teams got creative and paid tribute to Hoosier landmarks, state initiatives, pop culture, and much more. Check out all the entries at one of the links below:

View the 2022 Canstruction Competition photo gallery on Facebook >

View the 2022 Canstruction Competition photo gallery on SharePoint >

Participating agencies included seven teams from the Indiana Department of Child Services, 17 teams from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, Family and Social Services Administration, Alcohol and Tobacco Commission, three teams from the Indiana Department of Transportation, three teams from the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Labor, Indiana State Personnel Department, Department of Correction, two teams from the Department of Revenue, Hoosier Lottery, Indiana Criminal Justice Institute, two teams from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, Indiana State Fair Commission, Statehouse Tour Office, Indiana Office of Technology, Indiana Historical Bureau, Lt. Governor's Office, Public Defender's Office, Indiana State Department of Toxicology, and the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.

Great work to each team—you demonstrated your creativity, teamwork, and generosity. Thank you for all that you do!


Arlington Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast

The Arlington Chamber of Commerce is pleased to invite you to the tenth annual Legislative Breakfast. This event offers the opportunity to hear about the recent General Assembly session from the legislators who represent Arlington in Richmond. Arlington’s members of the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates will discuss the legislation that they patroned, the issues that the General Assembly took up, and the outlook for Arlington and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The event features a question and answer portion, and we encourage you to submit your questions with your registration. Join us on March 31 from 8:00-9:30 a.m. to hear from the speakers below.


https://web.arlingtonchamber.org/events/Legislative-Breakfast-3696/details

Event Information

Date: Thursday, March 31

Time:

8:00-9:00 a.m. Program
9:00-9:30 a.m. Q&A

Pre-registration:
Members: $35
Prospective Members: $50

Registration Questions?
Elizabeth Addington
Operations Manager
chamber@arlingtonchamber.org
(703) 525-2400

Event Questions?
Cassie Bate Hurley
Senior Director of Marketing & Operations
events@arlingtonchamber.org
(703) 525-2400

REGISTER HERE





Effingham County Community MAPPING Program


Effingham County has enlisted the help of the MAPPING The Future of Your Community program through the Illinois Institute for Rural Affairs at Western Illinois University to take a proactive approach to planning for community and economic development.

Originally planned for early 2020, the MAPPING program is a participant driven strategic visioning and planning process whereby local leaders and citizen volunteers create a long-range vision for the future of Effingham County and a plan of action for achieving it. Read more here.



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


Town Square Publications Chamber 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!

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Today: Wisconsin Manufacturing and Commerce: Members-Only Webinar: The $3.5 Trillion Reconciliation Bill & Its Impact on Businesses; The Business Case For Employee Vaccination; THE VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES (VACCE) ANNOUNCES 2021-22 OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS; BACC Women’s Biz Net Donates Over $700 in Gift Cards to Food Pantry; Brian Anderson, President & CEO, ChamberRVA to serve on the board of directors for ACCE; Kentucky Chamber: COVID STOPS HERE CAMPAIGN CELEBRATES OVER 200 BUSINESSES WITH 70% OR HIGHER VACCINATION RATES; Sun Medical Equipment and Supplies’ Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Birmingham, MI; Mclean County Chamber: Athena Awards; Lauren Klusman Promoted to Director of Marketing & Communications at Kosciusko County Chamber; APPLY TODAY: NEW ACCE PROGRAM TO ADDRESS EQUITABLE CREDENTIAL ATTAINMENT; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

 

Today: Wisconsin Manufacturing and Commerce: Members-Only Webinar: The $3.5 Trillion Reconciliation Bill & Its Impact on Businesses


TODAY: 10:00 - 11:00 AM


Two pieces of legislation have become intertwined in Washington, D.C. - the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework (or BIF) and the Reconciliation Bill (a $3.5 trillion spending package on so-called "human infrastructure").

The second piece of legislation - the $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill - would create a plethora of new social programs, drastically increase government involvement in Americans' lives and necessarily result in huge tax increases.

To break down the proposal, its possibility of passage and the impact on the business community, Michael Best Strategies Partner Sarah Helton will brief WMC members in this exclusive webinar.

Register Here



The Business Case For Employee Vaccination

Employers want the best for their employees. One important measure all businesses can take to help improve the quality of life of their workforce and strengthen performance is to educate employees on the benefits of COVID-19 vaccination.

Here are five reasons employers should continue to encourage employee COVID-19 vaccination in the workplace and community. Link: https://www.wellnessworksdetroit.com/the-business-case-for-employee-vaccination/


THE VIRGINIA ASSOCIATION OF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXECUTIVES (VACCE) ANNOUNCES 2021-22 OFFICERS AND BOARD MEMBERS


Kate Bates, Arlington Chamber President & CEO, Named VACCE Chair-Elect




HOT SPRINGS, VA – The Virginia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (VACCE) announced its 2021-22 officers and directors at their Annual Membership Meeting held at the Omni Homestead in Hot Springs, VA.

The 2021-22 Executive Committee members are:

Chair – Danielle Fitz-Hugh, Chesterfield Chamber

Chair-Elect – Kate Bates, Arlington Chamber

Secretary – Grafton deButts, Loudoun Chamber

Treasurer – Beth Rhinehart, Bristol TN / VA Chamber

Immediate Past President – Teresa Hammond, Alleghany Highlands Chamber

VACCE has placed the following members on its Board of Directors:


District 1 – Melissa Miller Haley, Hanover Chamber

District 2 – Terry Banez, Greater Williamsburg Business Council

District 3 – Sylvia Haines, Hampton Roads Chamber

District 4 – John Brandt, Colonial Heights Chamber

District 5 – Elizabeth Cromwell, Charlottesville Regional Chamber

District 6 – Gina Hilliard, Luray-Page County Chamber

District 7 – Angie Cabell, Powhatan Chamber

District 8 – Joe Haggerty, Alexandria Chamber

District 9 – Jennifer Atwell, Wytheville/Wythe/Bland Chamber

District 10 – Debbie Jones, Prince William Chamber

District 11 – Joe Martin, Dulles Regional Chamber

At Large Director – Brian Anderson, ChamberRVA

At Large Director– Tracy Hale Clark, Louisa County Chamber

At Large Director– Tracy Lyons, Lexington-Rockbridge Chamber

At Large Director– Michel Zajur, Virginia Hispanic Chamber

Ex-Officio Director– Erik Rison, Virginia Chamber

"I’m honored to be assuming the role of Chair-Elect for VACCE, following a line of tremendous leaders, including most recently Teresa Hammond and Susan Spears, and our current chair Danielle Fitz-Hugh," said Kate Bates, Arlington Chamber President & CEO. "During the pandemic, VACCE convened the chambers of commerce throughout the commonwealth for dialogues with our Governor and U.S. Senators to advocate for our business community. Our industry is an incredibly collaborative one, and I can’t think of a more supportive community than VACCE, where our chambers of commerce throughout Virginia support each other by sharing ideas and best practices.”

VACCE is an alliance of chamber executives representing large and small chambers of commerce from localities throughout the state. VACCE strives to develop the professional skills of chamber executives, staff, and volunteer leaders. The Association also provides a forum for integrating the work of the local chambers of commerce to contribute to the growth and development not only of local communities but also of our Commonwealth.


BACC Women’s Biz Net Donates Over $700 in Gift Cards to Food Pantry

(Barrington, IL--10/4/21) The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) Women’s Biz Net (WBN) Council presented a donation of more than $700 in gift cards for groceries to the Cuba Township Food Pantry in September. The donation was a result of the WBN’s Summer Food Drive.


“Our Women’s Biz Net is happy to support the great work that the Cuba Township Food Pantry does for those in need in the Barrington area,” said BACC President/CEO Suzanne Corr. BACC member Caryn Simons also donated gift cards for treats from her Nothing Bundt Cakes store in Kildeer as part of the WBN Drive.


Brian Anderson, President & CEO, ChamberRVA to serve on the board of directors for ACCE



Brian Anderson, President & CEO, ChamberRVA has been elected to serve on the board of directors for ACCE, the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, an Alexandria, Va.-based association of over 9,000 professionals who work for and with more than 1,600 chambers of commerce.

“We are pleased to welcome Brian to the ACCE Board of Directors,” said Sheree Anne Kelly, president & CEO of ACCE. “He joins the organization’s volunteer leadership at a time when the role of chambers of commerce has never been more critical. As our members’ communities and regions emerge from the pandemic and focus on economic recovery, Brian’s expertise and leadership will contribute to achieving meaningful change, continued economic recovery and more equitable prosperity.”

“Serving on the ACCE board will allow me to be aware of issues facing communities and regions around the country while gaining insight on best practices being implemented around the country that can also benefit the Richmond region,” said Brian. “I am honored by the opportunity and look forward to representing the Commonwealth of VA, our region, and ChamberRVA.”

Brian Anderson also was part of the most recent class of sixteen chamber professionals to earn the Certified Chamber Executive designation in 2021. The CCE program assesses and tests the applicant’s knowledge of core chamber management areas —management; planning and development; membership, communications and revenue; and operations. The first CCE designation was conferred more than 40 years and is recognized as the highest, and most elite, professional designation in the chamber of commerce profession. It’s the only globally-recognized certification program exclusive to the chamber of commerce industry.


“In the past year, these chamber leaders not only dedicated themselves to addressing local challenges brought on by the pandemic, but also invested many hours in their professional development to earn their CCE designation,” said Matt McCormick, CCE, IOM, president of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce (Mo.) and CCE Commission chairman. “We commend their achievement and are very proud to have them join a long tradition of professional excellence.”

“Achieving the national credential of ‘Certified Chamber Executive’ has been a personal goal for a long time,” said Brian. “I want to thank ACCE (Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives) for establishing the national designation and all the resources they provide supporting Chamber of Commerce professionals. I also want to thank every board member and the chamber staff professionals I have had the privilege of serving with and learning from.”





Kentucky Chamber: COVID STOPS HERE CAMPAIGN CELEBRATES OVER 200 BUSINESSES WITH 70% OR HIGHER VACCINATION RATES

In an effort to encourage vaccinations across the state and celebrate businesses that are leading the way in the fight against the coronavirus, the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce launched a campaign that recognizes workplaces with a 70% vaccination rate or higher. Since the start of the campaign in early August, COVID Stops Here has recognized more than 200 businesses across Kentucky.


Sun Medical Equipment and Supplies’ Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in Birmingham, MI

Birmingham, Mich. – On Wednesday, September 22, Sun Medical Equipment and Supplies celebrated the grand opening of their location at 34164 Woodward Ave, Birmingham, MI 48009.

Sun Medical Equipment and Supplies is a locally owned and operated company since 1981. Their goal is to offer personal health care products and services through any one of their three conveniently located retail stores.

They extend a high level of personalized care, compliance and customer service with a knowledgeable and friendly healthcare team, who truly care that all your medical needs are achieved. They realize there are many healthcare choices for you and your loved ones, Sun Medical Equipment and Supplies is the best choice.

Sun Medical Equipment is located in the Birmingham Triangle District.

Phone: (248) 280-2020

Fax: (248) 885-8190

Email: sunmed@americaremedical.com


Mclean County Chamber: Athena Awards

Since 1997, the Chamber has presented the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award to an individual who has achieved professional excellence, gives time and energy to community service and actively assists others, especially women, in realizing their full leadership potential. The McLean County Chamber of Commerce believes in the values underlying ATHENA International’s philosophy of incorporating the talent and expertise of women into the leadership of our businesses, our communities, and our government.

These four finalists were chosen by a panel of judges from a strong list of nominees submitted by the community:

Aimee Beam 
Vice President of Development, Public President, Carle BroMenn Medical Center

Colleen Kannaday
Relations & Marketing, The Baby Fold & Carle Eureka Hospital

Kathy Yoder 
Coroner, McLean County Coroner’s Office 

Aggie Hedin
Client Care Manager, SYNERGY HomeCare of Central Illinois

The ATHENA winner will be unveiled at the Leaders of Distinction Awards. Please join us in celebrating all four nominees and Pantagraph Media’s Twenty Under Forty award honorees.

LEADERS OF DISTINCTION AWARDS
Thursday, September 30, 2021
5:00 pm - 6:15 pm | Cocktail Hour
6:15 pm - 6:45 pm | Program
Castle Theatre
Cocktail Reception & Awards Ceremony

Reserve your tickets now for this festive evening celebrating these members of our community who inspire and encourage us! Tickets can be purchased online at www.mcleancochamber.org or by contacting Jessica Kemp, Manager of Event Services, at 309-829-1188 or jessica@mcleancochamber.org.

Lauren Klusman Promoted to Director of Marketing & Communications at Kosciusko County Chamber



(Warsaw, IN) – The Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the promotion of Lauren Klusman to Director of Marketing and Communications.


Klusman joined the Kosciusko Chamber staff in March 2017 as the Marketing and Communications Manager. She is responsible for creating, implementing, and measuring the success of marketing, communications, and public relations programs that enhance the organization’s vision. In addition, she does photography and video work in order to increase visibility of Chamber members. She is the leader of the Chamber’s Ambassador Committee and serves on the Young Adult Professionals (YAP) Steering Committee.

Rob Parker, Chamber President & CEO says, “Lauren has proven herself to be an indispensable member of the Kosciusko Chamber of Commerce. Her creativity and passion for our community and our members is evident in all she does and I know that she will continue to amaze in her expanded role.”


APPLY TODAY: NEW ACCE PROGRAM TO ADDRESS EQUITABLE CREDENTIAL ATTAINMENT

ACCE NEWS 

ACCE is pleased to announce new funding from the Lumina Foundation that will help us strengthen chamber of commerce partnerships with community colleges to increase the number of adult learners of color who earn an industry-relevant credential or degree.

Partnerships between chambers of commerce and community colleges have the potential to significantly increase the number of adult learners of color completing high-quality, relevant short-term credentials and degrees. Given the current spotlight on upskilling and the resources that are being reallocated to fund short-term credentials, now is the time to capitalize on the potential for these partnerships.

To support the development of these partnerships, and to increase the number of workers with in-demand credentials and degrees, the Lumina Foundation has provided a grant to jumpstart progress in cities or regions. The ACCE Foundation and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) will identify a virtual cohort of teams from six to eight cities or regions. Each team will be comprised of a chamber, a community college partner and an organization that directly represents minority communities.

Throughout the 18-month Equitable Credential Attainment Cohort program, teams will receive technical assistance and subgrant funding as they work together to drive the growth of credentialing and degree programs in their regions and to place workers, particularly BIPOC workers, in well-paid jobs with opportunities for career advancement.

The deadline to apply is October 29, 2021. Learn more and apply today.


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


Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales 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!