After 15 years at the helm and a 5 Star Rating, Greater La Porte Chamber President Michael Seitz to Retire; Rochester Regional Chamber: #BestChamber Practices: Recognizing your Prospects: Chamber "Wednesday Workshop" Beyond the DiSC; Wisconsin sees a big boom is tourism growth; Nearly 100 Northern Virginia Nonprofits Registered for Do More 24™ Giving Day; Small Business Leadership Award at the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation's annual Business and Community Showcase; Logitech CEO to Address Greater Oensboro Rooster Booster This Thursday; Mega Connect Multi-Chamber Networking Luncheon Thursday, May 12 - Registration Ends this Thursday, May 5th!

Good morning Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!

After 15 years at the helm and a 5 Star Rating, Greater La Porte Chamber President Michael Seitz to Retire

Mike Seitz

On December 31, 2016, I will be completing my fifteenth year as President of the Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce. During those fifteen years, with the assistance of many fine Chamber and LEAF Board members and an excellent staff, we have accomplished so much in developing the Chamber into an exceptional organization, representing the interest of our members and our community. We have been through three accreditation processes through the US Chamber of Commerce, receiving two 4-star ratings and one five-star rating most recently. Because of these ratings, our Chamber is in an elite class of Chambers. Our program of work has gone through an evolution process over these fifteen years and contributed to our success in the accreditation process because of its strengths in providing programs and services for our members.

I have decided that I would retire from the position of President of the Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce effective December 31, 2016. It has been an honor for me and I want to express my appreciation to the Board for allowing me to serve as President of the Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce. A special thank you is also deserved to the community for their kindness shown to me and my family that made living in La Porte one of the greatest experiences of my life.


Respectfully,

Michael B. Seitz, IOM




Rochester Regional Chamber: #BestChamber Practices: Recognizing your Prospects: Chamber "Wednesday Workshop" Beyond the DiSC


The event a Wednesday Workshop,will help attendees identify the four DiSC personalities, recognize their own personal DiSC personality, evaluate the behaviors of the four DiSC personalities to better respond to customer/client needs, and devise a plan to utilize the tools gained for their next client encounter. Knowing the four DiSC indicators is a helpful tool for anyone selling their products and services. Beyond understanding the differences within each category, it is important to listen for the clues to identify your clients/customers. By the questions asked and by the attitudes of your prospects through interaction you will know how to best approach each personality type. The Workshop will help develop skills to pinpoint the best practices for each personality type.

Featured speaker and Chamber member Deneen Troupe-Buitrago, M.Ed will be leading and facilitating the discussion. Deneen is the owner of GFYO Business & Educational Center in Auburn Hills.

Beyond the DiSC - Using Personality Profiles for Better Business Success will be held on Wednesday, May 11, 2016 from 9 - 11 am in the Chamber's conference room. Coffee and light refreshments will be served. Seating is limited. Attendees must register at www.rrc-mi.com or by calling 248-651-6700.


The "Wednesday Workshop" is an event series offered by the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce and will be held bi-monthly in the Chamber conference room and will feature a variety of Chamber members presenting on a range of topics. Contact the RRCC for more information.


New Arrival: Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce 2016 Community Profile & Directory

The Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce 2016 Community Profile & Directory is available at the Plainfield Area Chamber today! Thanks to Tasha Kitson, Mari Edmondson, Vitella Barnes, Kellie Wujek and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Town SquarePublications  (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.

Wisconsin sees a big boom is tourism growth

Governor Scott Walker, made a stop in Eau Claire on Friday to highlight the State's growth in the tourism economy.

This last year, the new numbers show we are up to $19.3 billion in terms of the economic impact tourism has on the state.

One county in Northwest Wisconsin made it among the top ten counties in the state for percentage growth.

"The best part is when you look at Bayfield county specifically. we actually beat the state averages in all but one of that categories, so you know, the tourism industry in Bayfield County is alive and well," James Bolen, Executive Director of Cable Chamber of Commerce.

Bayfield County saw a 6.7% increase in its tourism economy.

James Bolen, Executive Director of the Cable Chamber of Commerce, says part of what fueled the boost is due in part to lower gas prices and an over-all uptick in the economy.

He also gives credit to the Ice Caves, which had an impact on the whole region.

"So many people came up and Bayfield County couldn't house them all and so they were staying in Ashland and Superior. and so we need to take a regional approach," said Bolen.

Governor Walker says marketing the state's tourism economy was one of his priorities when he took office and he says the marking strategies has paid off. Read more: Northlands News Center

Nearly 100 Northern Virginia Nonprofits Registered for Do More 24™ Giving Day 



Tysons, Va. – With less than one month to go before the start of Do More 24™, the region’s largest 24-hour, online giving day, nearly 100 area nonprofit organizations have already registered to participate in this year’s event hosted by United Way of the National Capital Area. This year the Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce is partnering with United Way NCA to give an even bigger boost to the effort. In 2015, the annual, 24-hour online fundraiser brought in over $1.4 million in donations for more than 600 National Capital Community nonprofit organizations.

This year’s event will take place starting at midnight on Thursday, June 2nd, 2016 and will last for a full 24-hours. Nonprofits can continue to register for the event until May 23rd, 2016. Participating nonprofits include organizations ranging from those with a focus on animal welfare to arts and culture, health and human services, and workforce readiness.

"We are thrilled to partner with Northern Virginia Chamber member United Way NCA for Do More 24™," said Jim Corcoran, President & CEO, Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce.

“Powered by United Way of the National Capital Area, Do More 24™ is the area’s largest 24-hour giving day, helping to fuel our local nonprofit organizations,” said Kelly V. Brinkley, Chief Operating Officer of United Way NCA. “Do More 24™ will provide area nonprofits desperately needed funding to help fill holes in their budgets, buy needed new equipment and serve people throughout the community.”

Both returning nonprofits, as well as those interested in participating for the first time, can visit www.DoMore24.org to register for this year’s event. Regional, national and local nonprofit organizations classified by the IRS as a 501 (c)(3), with a presence in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area (including Northern Virginia) are eligible to participate.

See the below list for Northern Virginia nonprofits currently registered to participate in this year’s event.

Both returning nonprofits, as well as those interested in participating for the first time, can visit www.DoMore24.org to register for this year’s event. Regional, national and local nonprofit organizations classified by the IRS as a 501 (c)(3), with a presence in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area (including Northern Virginia) are eligible to participate.

In addition to registration information, the site also provides a comprehensive list of FAQ’s providing nonprofit partners with in-depth information about how they can take part in this local movement. Last year, 11,000 Do More 24™ donors contributed more than $1.4 million to participating nonprofits, which helped them to launch new programs, buy equipment, expand their services, hire staff and fill budget gaps.

Individual donors looking to take part in this year’s effort, can go to the website at www.DoMore24.org and sign up today to receive an email reminder for the 24 hour fundraising event on June 2nd. You can also stay up-to-date with all things Do More 24™ via Facebook and Twitter.


Small Business Leadership Award at the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation's annual Business and Community Showcase

 A local couple were recognized for their contributions to the business community by being named winners of the Small Business Leadership award at the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation's annual Business and Community Showcase Wednesday.

    Cary and Faith Vaughn, of Vaughn's Inc., were named 2016 winners of the award. Married for 32 years, the Vaughns have been in business for 23 of those years. They moved here from Madison because Meridian was an undeveloped market for Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen. Now, they own two local locations of the popular restaurant.

    "We work together 24/7 — our office is at the home," Faith Vaughn said.

    Faith Vaughn credited Great Southern Bank for underwriting their Small Business Administration loan package when the family came to Meridian. She also thanked their parents for helping with the children when building the business took a great deal of time and attention.

    The management teams and employees at the two stores were also credited for the success of the business.  

    "They are the visible people in the stores," Faith Vaughn said.             "Meridian has been a wonderful community," Cary Vaughn said. "We've had a great 23 years and hope to be here 23 more," Cary Vaughn said.  Read more: Meridian Star

Logitech CEO to Address Greater Owensboro Rooster Booster This Thursday

The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce Rooster Booster Breakfast is this Thursday, May 5, 2016 at 7:30 a.m. Central Standard Time. Goreman Recruiting is sponsoring the event.

The speaker is Bracken P. Darrell, president and chief executive officer of Fortune 500 company, Logitech.  As CEO, Darrell is responsible for Logitech’s strategy for growth and profitability, for the vision for the brand as well as for the company’s operations. Mr. Darrell joined Logitech as president in April 2012, and assumed the role of chief executive officer in January 2013. 

Mr. Darrell brings to Logitech more than twenty years of experience in business management and brand management in successful global consumer companies, including Whirlpool, Procter & Gamble and General Electric. His broad executive management experience has spanned manufacturing, supply chain, product innovation, consumer services and marketing – targeting customers in mature and emerging markets. He has led growth and reinvention for iconic brands such as Old Spice, Gillette, Braun, KitchenAid and Whirlpool.

Prior to joining Logitech, Mr. Darrell was executive vice president of Whirlpool Corporation and president of Whirlpool EMEA, where he guided the company through the economic downturn of 2008. Previously, Mr. Darrell was with Procter & Gamble, most recently as the president of Braun, the home appliance business. In addition to a total of twelve years with Procter & Gamble – in executive management positions as well as earlier years in brand management – Mr. Darrell served with General Electric Company for five years, most recently as the general manager of Consumer Home Service. Mr. Darrell began his career with Arthur Anderson and then PepsiCo.

Bracken Darrell holds an M.B.A. degree from Harvard Business School and a B.A. degree in English from Hendrix College in Arkansas.

Rooster Booster is the monthly breakfast meeting and premier event for our 102 year old organization. Held at the Owensboro Convention Center on the banks of the Ohio River, “Rooster Booster” is considered the largest and most notable monthly chamber meetings in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Reservations are required by Wednesday at 2:00 p.m.  Reservations may be made by visiting chamber.owensboro.com and clicking on events calendar, May Rooster Booster; or by calling 270.926.1860.  Cost is $12 per Chamber Member/$20 for non-Chamber members.  The event is open to the public. Contact : Candance Castlen Brake, President and CEO, Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce - 270.691.0570  cbrake@owensboro.com 

Mega Connect Multi-Chamber Networking Luncheon Thursday, May 12 - Registration Ends this Thursday, May 5th!

Howard Meyer

Multiply your networking potential! Members looking for a productive networking experience will enjoy the structured format of this program, which gives each participant an opportunity to speak to a receptive audience about his/her company's products and services. 

This is a multi-chamber event including the DBR, Des Plaines, Glencoe, Glenview, Highland Park, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove, Mount Prospect, Niles, Park Ridge, Skokie, and Wilmette/Kenilworth Chambers of Commerce.

The event will begin with informal networking over a buffet lunch.  Attendees will then be divided into small groups at assigned tables where everyone will give 2-minute presentations on their companies. Following will be an additional presentation to a second and third group of participants. In addition, everyone will receive a contact list of pre-registered participants. Don't miss this unique opportunity to expand your reach and resources!

Please note that table assignments will begin promptly at 12:00 Noon. If you are not there by 11:50 a.m., your space will be given away to another participant and you will need to check-in at the "Late Registration Table."  Please arrive on time to get the most out of your networking experience!

Thursday, May 12, 2016

11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Chateau Ritz

9100 N. Milwaukee, Niles

Lunch included in all fees
RSVP & Payment Due by 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 5, 2016

Members paying by 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 5: $30

Prospective Members, Members paying after May 5, and Walk-ins: $40

Literature Table Participant: $35, Your company name and materials will be featured prominently on a table in the entry to the room for all attendees to view. Please note: Only those who have paid the $35 literature table participant fee can place their company literature on the assigned table.

No cancellations or refunds after 4:30 p.m. Thursday, May 5.

Walk-ins are strongly discouraged and may not be accommodated.

Click Here for More Information & To Register

Town Square Publications Chamber of Commerce Membership Directories, Community Profiles, Re-Location Guides and Custom Maps 

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 publication proposal, Click here

Cable (Wisconsin) Chamber host: World athletes welcomed in spectacular ceremony; Benton (Arkansas) Chamber recognizes members with awards; ‘Innovative’ Greenville (Michigan) Chamber of Commerce hands out annual honors; The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce announces new President and CEO; Chamber news: One Southern Indiana announces “One” Awards finalists; Hoffman Estates chamber hands out annual awards; Chamber Event: 412th DCG shares leadership philosophy with Leadership Vicksburg; Washington County (Virginia) Chamber holds annual luncheon; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation

Cable (Wisconsin) Chamber host: World athletes welcomed in spectacular ceremony

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Nordic Skiing World Championships in Cable kicked off its 10-day run with a spectacular opening ceremony last Friday evening before a large crowd of 135 athletes from 15 countries, their coaches and spectators at The Lakewoods Resort near Cable.

Held on a flag-bedecked stage bordering Lake Namakagon, the ceremony included a parade of national flags, and welcoming remarks from Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, from IPC Governing Board member Todd Nicholson and from local organizing committee members James Bolen and Gerry Hansen.

Flags were carried in by representatives of Austria, Canada, China, Finland, France, Japan, Germany, Mongolia, Norway, Poland, Russia, Sweden, Ukraine, the United States, State of Wisconsin and the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians.

A sit-ski athlete from the Fond du Lac reservation of Minnesota, Brenden Ojibwe, skied to the state carrying a torch and handed it to Wisconsin Secretary of Tourism Stephanie Klett — who then lit the Olympic-style cauldron on the stage to signal the start of the event.

Walker declared the games open, and fireworks lit up the sky, reflecting on the ice of Lake Namakagon. Read more: Sawyer County Record

Benton (Arkansas) Chamber recognizes members with awards

Recognition was the theme of the day as the Benton Area Chamber of Commerce acknowledged the accomplishments of its members during the First Thursday Lunch and Awards Presentation.
Lori Terrell, the incoming president of the chamber, welcomed the crowd Jan. 8 at the Benton Event Center.
“I hope we can continue to move forward and grow our community,” she said.
Terrell, who is the group human resources manager at CoorsTek, cited the chamber’s 2014 accomplishments, which included hosting the 2014 banquet with guest speaker Bill Rancic, conducting the first Saline County Business Expo, publishing the first Saline County Restaurant Guide in partnership with the Bryant Chamber of Commerce and organizing a presidents’ club that will include all past chamber presidents and will meet quarterly.
She also said attendance at last year’s events was “great,” noting that 700 attended the Cajun Fest, 1,500 attended Savor the Flavor, and 6,000 attended the Glitz & Garland event.
Terrell and Gary James, executive director of the chamber, presented plaques to the honorees. Read more: Arkansas Online

‘Innovative’ Greenville (Michigan) Chamber of Commerce hands out annual honors

A successful city needs a successful chamber of commerce.
As it turns out, Greenville has one of the best.
After yet another successful year advocating for this community, the Greenville Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual meeting and awards celebration. The event highlighted the accomplishments of the chamber last year and handed out annual awards.
“It’s a great opportunity to celebrate the outstanding people we have in Greenville,” said Chamber of Commerce Co-Executive Director Candy Kerschen. “Greenville is a great place to work and live because of them and they are very deserving of our appreciation and recognition. The annual dinner is also a great opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments we have achieved together as a business community.”
Held at the Montcalm County Fairgrounds, the awards dinner theme was based on the upcoming Super Bowl. Attendees enjoyed a buffet and drinks as well as playing a game of pseudo squares throughout the night. There also was a drawing for a large flat screen TV.

Outstanding Chamber

Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals Bob Thomas joined the ceremony and gave a small speech. He praised the fact that the Greenville Chamber has won Michigan’s Outstanding Chamber of the Year award three times, which is one of only three chambers out of 300 in Michigan to receive the award thrice.The Greenville Chamber won the award in 2009, 2011 and 2012. Read more: The Daily News

The Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce announces new President and CEO

A new President and CEO will now lead the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.
Jacob Colley was elected this past Friday by a Board of Directors.
Colley has been serving as the Interim President since November, prior to that he was the Chamber's Vice President of Operations.
"I'm very excited to start this chapter for myself and for the Chamber of Commerce. Read more: WYMT news.com

Chamber news: One Southern Indiana announces “One” Awards finalists

One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, announced Monday the finalists for the 2015 “One” Awards, according to a news release from 1si. The “One” Award is a reinvention of the Southern Indiana Business Awards and recognizes the finest 1si member in one of seven categories. Winners will be announced at the event from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 10, at Huber’s Orchard, Winery and Vineyard’s Plantation Hall in Borden.
The finalists were chosen by an independent panel of judges and were selected based on criteria of business history, community involvement, response to adversity, newly-created opportunities and innovation in products or services. This year’s finalists (in alphabetical order) include: Read more: News and Tribune

Hoffman Estates chamber hands out annual awards

Andy Spentzos and his brother Peter grew up in the restaurant business, busing tables and cooking in the kitchen at their father's restaurant.

Since 2002, they've operated their own restaurant, Apple Villa Famous Pancake House & Restaurant, at 3101 Barrington Road in Hoffman Estates.

So when Apple Villa was recognized as Business of the Year Thursday night at the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce and Industry's fourth annual Celebration of Excellence, Andy Spentzos knew who he was going to dedicate the award to.

"I owe this to my dad, who taught me everything I know about the business," he told the crowd at Chicago Marriott Northwest. Read more: Daily Herald

Chamber Event: 412th DCG shares leadership philosophy with Leadership Vicksburg

“What is leadership and what are the qualities that make a good leader?”

This is a question Brig. Gen. Donna Williams, deputy commanding general of Operations, 412th Theater Engineer Command, and Vicksburg, Mississippi, native, presented to Leadership Vicksburg while speaking to them Jan. 27 at the Vicksburg Chamber of Commerce.

Leadership Vicksburg is an annual program run by the Chamber of Commerce to provide leaders with a deeper understanding of critical issues effecting Vicksburg and Warren County. The attendees include leaders of the local casinos, hospitals, restaurants, mills and the Vicksburg National Military Park.

“We have this program of the chamber called Leadership Vicksburg where the people of this community, we’re developing them as leaders,” said Jane Lauderdale Flowers, executive director, Vicksburg Chamber of Commerce. “We’re also trying to acquaint them and make them aware of all the various industries in town, so they’ll have an industry day, they’ll have an education day, in Vicksburg, which is unique, they’ll have a casino day. Today is an Army Corps of Engineers day.” Read more:dvidshub.net

Washington County (Virginia) Chamber holds annual luncheon


The Washington County Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Awards Luncheon on Jan. 14 at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center. New Chamber board members and officers were announced with Jamea Blevins of State Farm assuming the office of President for 2015. Danny Ruble was elected as the President-Elect. Outgoing president Jim Swartz presented a review of 2014 commenting on the progress made with the addition of 40 new members, five ribbon cuttings for new businesses, various seminars and events and the continued success of the Chamber Breakfasts for 2014. Tony Miller and Roger Ketron, who retired from the Board, were recognized for their service on the Board for two terms. New Board members for 2015 are Allyson Mays, Barter Theatre, and Kay Stout, DePaul Family Services.
The Washington County Teachers of the Year were announced by David Matlock. Awards were presented to Washington County Elementary School Teacher of the Year – Jennifer Coe, Meadowview Elementary School; Read more: swvatoday.com

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation:

"Selling a vision to a chamber board is always a compromise between what you want to say and what they want to hear" --- JD

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: Playing Big: Find Your Voice, Your Mission, Your Message - by Tara Mohr; Naperville Chamber luncheon: Pradel praises 'teamwork' during his 20 years leading Naperville; Plymouth (Michigan) Chamber focus: Plans for high-tech business park taking shape; Chamber event: Officials: Virginia needs to continue diversifying its economy; Indiana Chamber Comments on Governor Pence’s State of State Address; Arkansas State Chamber - 21st Annual Business Forecast Luncheon set for Friday; Chamber assist: Kentucky schools benefiting from program with support of business community; Chamber support: Paralympic Nordic Ski World Championships Open in Cable, Wisconsin; Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Professional Development Series 2015

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: Playing Big: Find Your Voice, Your Mission, Your Message - by Tara Mohr

A groundbreaking women's leadership expert and popular conference speaker gives women the practical skills to voice and implement the changes they want to see--in themselves and in the world
In her coaching and programs for women, Tara Mohr saw how women were "playing small" in their lives and careers, were frustrated by it, and wanted to "play bigger." She has devised a proven way for them to achieve their dreams by playing big from the inside out. Mohr's work helping women play bigger has earned acclaim from the likes of Maria Shriver and Jillian Michaels, and has been featured on the "Today "show, " CNN, " and a host of other media outlets.
Sheryl Sandberg's "Lean In" gave many women new awareness about what kinds of changes they need to make to become more successful; yet most women need help implementing them. In the tradition of Brene Brown's "Daring Greatly," "Playing Big" provides real, practical tools to help women quiet self-doubt, identify their callings, "unhook" from praise and criticism, unlearn counterproductive good girl habits, and begin taking bold action.
While not all women aspire to end up in the corner office, every woman aspires to something. "Playing Big" fills a major gap among women's career books; it isn't just for corporate women. The book offers tools to help "every" woman play bigger--whether she's an executive, community volunteer, artist, or stay-at-home mom.
Thousands of women across the country have been transformed by Mohr's program, and now this book makes the ideas and practices available to everyone who is ready to play big. Read more: TaraMohr.com

Naperville Chamber luncheon: Pradel praises 'teamwork' during his 20 years leading Naperville

Naperville Mayor George Pradel's 20th and final State of the City address on Monday was an ode to the philosophy that carried him through two decades at the city's helm: teamwork.

The speech before a crowd of 500 at a Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon was part flashback and part celebration as Pradel illustrated the ways he has remained committed to the same ideals of leadership and service he adopted when he began as mayor in 1995.

"In my very first State of the City speech I said the following: 'We will continue to maintain the quality of life you expect by providing the highest level of service through a spirit of teamwork,'" Pradel said. "We've lived those words every single day for the past 7,211 days."

During that time, Pradel said he has led the city "my way," with plenty of praise and pride and always a smile. Read more: Daily Herald

Plymouth (Michigan) Chamber focus: Plans for high-tech business park taking shape

Plans are taking shape for a new advanced-technology business corridor along Five Mile in Plymouth and Northville townships.
Officials in the two communities, working with state and Wayne County elected and economic development officials, have formed the Michigan International Technology Center to market some 800 acres on either side of Five Mile between Beck and Napier, property they say is ideal for firms in the high-tech, life sciences and automotive fields that are looking for Detroit-area locations.
“It’s an exciting first step,” Plymouth Township Supervisor Richard Reaume said, one that took about 14 months of discussion to reach.
Parcels could be available later this year, Reaume said, though major construction isn’t likely until next year. Several firms, which he declined to name, have already shown an interest, Reaume said.
In a joint announcement, Reaume and Northville Township Supervisor Robert Nix said the acreage could support up to 5 million square feet of facilities, $620 million in investment and more than 9,000 jobs. The MITC, Reaume said, will be asking the Michigan Department of Transportation and Wayne County for upgrades to Five Mile in that area. Read more: Hometown Life

 

Chamber event: Officials: Virginia needs to continue diversifying its economy

To illustrate how Virginia must reduce its dependence on government-related jobs to remain economically competitive, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Maurice Jones gave a sports allusion.
“Our big risk is similar to that of the Denver Broncos,” Jones told Tysons Regional Chamber of Commerce members at a Jan. 23 breakfast meeting in Merrifield. “If Peyton Manning has a good day, Denver can’t be beat. If Peyton Manning has a bad day, they can’t beat Langley High School.”
The Department of Defense is Virginia’s biggest employer, and 13 of the commonwealth’s top 20 job providers are governmental agencies or public-sector contractors, Jones said. Last year, Virginia was ranked 48th nationally for economic growth, ahead only of Maryland and the District of Columbia, which ranked 49th and 50th, respectively. Read more: Leeburg Today

Indiana Chamber Comments on Governor Pence’s State of State Address

Indiana Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kevin Brinegar comments on Governor Pence’s State of the State address:

"We agree with the Governor that many accomplishments over the last decade have distinguished Indiana as a place for companies to relocate, bring jobs and make investments. But more importantly, we agree that there is a lot more work to do to both keep pace and to stand out from the rest. We need to be bold and move farther faster in order to reach the goals in ​Indiana Vision 2025 (the Indiana Chamber's long-range economic development plan for the state; http://www.indianachamber.com/2025).

"We particularly applaud the Governor's focus on career and technical education. In addition, there needs to be an emphasis on retraining our adult workers so they can secure the higher skilled jobs that are available and pay higher wages. Read more: Indiana Chamber

Arkansas State Chamber - 21st Annual Business Forecast Luncheon set for Friday

Twenty-First Annual Business Forecast Luncheon Slated for January 30th The Center for Business and Economic Research in the Sam M. Walton College of Business will present their 21st Annual Business Forecast Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on Friday, January 30th at the John Q. Hammons Convention Center, which is located in the World Trade Center District in Rogers. For ticket information, click here or call 479-575-4151.Register here: Arkansas State Chamber

Chamber assist: Kentucky schools benefiting from program with support of business community

As Kentucky continues to seek to find ways to improve education in the state, the Kentucky Chamber Foundation’s Leadership Institute for School Principals has proudly graduated another group of educators who will take their new skills home to their districts.

Since the start of the program in 2011, the Kentucky Chamber Foundation has raised and spent more than $2 million to help principals in the state receive CEO-level leadership training at no cost to the educator.

The Leadership Institute for School Principals uses the generous donations of individuals and businesses across the state to allow principals to attend for free a three-day session in Greensboro, North Carolina and another four day training at the Kentucky Chamber headquarters where they are trained by a nationally acclaimed provider of executive education. Read more: kychamberblog

Chamber support: Paralympic Nordic Ski World Championships Open in Cable, Wisconsin

Opening ceremonies are taking place Friday night for the Paralympic Nordic Ski World Championships in Cable, Wisconsin.
Events include sprint and distance cross country ski races, and biathlon that combines skiing and target shooting.
Event support chief and Cable Chamber of Commerce Director James Bolen is expecting thousands of spectators this weekend.

“It’s going to be an extremely busy 10 days.  So there’s a lot of people around, there’s a lot of traffic.  We have about 20 countries here competing, so you see a lot of national flags and team jackets and stuff – it’s a really cool international event.” Read more: WXPR.com

Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Professional Development Series 2015

The first in the Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce Professional Development Series 2015 is "Workforce Motivation" from 8 to 9 a.m. Thursday.
It will be at the Knight Nonprofit Center, 11975 Seaway Road, Gulfport, and admission is free.
Cindy Duvall with Mississippi Power Co. will present a program about how engagement, taking action and strategic productivity can reshape your professional future. Read more: SunHerald.com

Bay Area Chamber of Commerce President Michael Seward announces retirement; Judge Orders Little Rock, North Little Rock to Discontinue Chamber Payments; Kentucky Chamber outlines top priorities for General Assembly; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Indy Chamber; Chamber interest: New elk herd to be introduced in northwest Wisconsin; Three to go into Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame; Quad Cities Chamber to host Gov. Branstad for Condition of the State Address; Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce To Present Web Development Seminar Feb. 3; Improve Your Chamber’s Performance With ACCE; Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey

Bay Area Chamber of Commerce President Michael Seward announces retirement

After nearly 13 years as president and CEO, the man who put the "your" in "Your Bay Area Chamber of Commerce" is stepping down.
Michael Seward, who took the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce to new levels through vibrant membership drives, legislative advocacy in Lansing and the establishment of new awards and business partnerships, announced his retirement Tuesday, Jan. 13.
"I've been here now about 12 1/2 years," Seward said. "I've actually been a chamber of commerce executive, believe it or not, for about 44 years."
Prior to joining the Bay Area Chamber, Seward, who was born and raised in Illinois, worked for chambers of commerce across the state and across the country, including in Lansing; Sacramento, California; and Chicago. Read more: M Live

Judge Orders Little Rock, North Little Rock to Discontinue Chamber Payments

A Pulaski County Circuit Judge has ordered the cities of Little Rock and North Little Rock to stop making payments to chambers of commerce and other private corporations during a summary judgment hearing on Monday.

"He agreed it wasn't a contract for services," attorney Bruce McMath said of a hearing with Pulaski County Circuit Judge Mackie Pierce on Monday. McMath successfully argued that point to the judge on behalf of one of the plaintiff's in the suit -- Jim Lynch of Little Rock. 

"It's a donation. It's a contribution. And then the chamber is able to use it as they see fit," McMath said. McMath, referring to the payments the City of Little Rock has made to the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce over several years for economic development services. 

The Arkansas Constitution bars local governments from appropriating money to private groups or individuals, but the city of Little Rock had argued the chamber provides promotion and economic development benefits. 

"The City of Little Rock has contracted with the Little Rock Chamber of Commerce for many years in an effort to attract businesses to our capital city. Their work recruited companies such as Welspun, Sage V Foods, Bass Pro Shop, the Outlets at Little Rock and the Dassault Falcon Jet expansion, among others," said Mayor Mark Stodola in a written statement to KARK. 

Stodola added in the statement, "The City's contract with the Chamber has helped create more than 5,275 new jobs, $200 million in annual payroll and $1 billion in new capital investment in Little Rock since 2005." Read more: ArkansasMatters.com

Kentucky Chamber outlines top priorities for General Assembly

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce recently released its 2015 legislative agenda as the Kentucky General Assembly kicks off its short legislative session in Frankfort.
The full agenda is extensive by nature, but I asked Bryan Sunderland, senior vice president of public affairs for the state chamber, to boiled the document down to the major issues the chamber will be pushing hard this year — and in the future, if they fail to gain traction with legislators during this session.
For this article, Business First has narrowed the list to 10 major issues. It should be noted that this is list not a ranking, so the order the issues are arranged does not necessarily reflect the importance of the issues. Read more: Louisville Business First

Chamber Tweet of the Day: Indy Chamber




Indy Chamber ‏@IndyChamber 2h2 hours ago

Launching in April 2015, #zWORKS will be @ZionsvilleIN's #entrepreneurial and #coworking center. http://ow.ly/HnBQ1

Chamber interest: New elk herd to be introduced in northwest Wisconsin

Beginning this month, elk will be imported into the Clam Lake area from Kentucky onto public lands. One of the reasons for importing elk is to provide genetic diversity to the existing herd and aid herd growth.
Another reason for the partnership between the Wisconsin DNR and the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife is to increase the local economy through recreation and tourism.
The elk herd currently generates over $200,000 of revenue per year, according to the Cable Chamber of Commerce. Read more: nncnow.com

Three to go into Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce Business Hall of Fame

Three men will be honored at the Quincy Area Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Meeting and Business Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony on Wednesday, Jan. 21, at 11:30 a.m. at the Oakley Lindsay Center.
The Class of 2015 will include Delmer R. Mitchell, partner with Schmiedeskamp, Robertson Neu and Mitchell LLP; Sam Rinella Jr., co-founder of The Rinella Company; and Ron Vecchie, vice president of Refreshment Services Pepsi. 
Delmer R. Mitchell
Mitchell began his practice in Belleville, IL in 1966 before moving to Quincy in 1969 when Carl Schmiedeskamp and John Robertson’s firm needed a trial lawyer. Mitchell was then the firm’s sixth attorney.
Mitchell became a partner in the firm in 1971, and when Schmiedeskamp passed away in 1987, Mitchell became the leader of the organization. Today, Schmiedeskamp, Robertson, Neu and Mitchell LLP is the largest law firm within a 100 miles of Quincy with 17 lawyers and 20 additional staff members. The firm has grown from a local Illinois firm representing regional clients to one representing national clients, and celebrated its 100^th anniversary in 2014. Read more: Quincy Journal

Quad Cities Chamber to host Gov. Branstad for Condition of the State Address

The Quad Cities Chamber of Commerce will host Iowa Governor Terry Branstad and Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds for the Condition of the State Address at a luncheon on Tuesday, January 20 from Noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Waterfront Convention Center, 2021 State St., Bettendorf.
“The Quad Cities is among a short list of communities where the Governor and Lieutenant Governor will present the Condition of the State, and we are honored to welcome them once again to our community,” says Tara Barney, President & CEO, Quad Cities Chamber. “This is a great opportunity to hear first-hand the Governor’s vision for the future of the state and align our regional vision wherever possible with state priorities.”
Branstad and Reynolds will present their vision for the state including initiatives to bolster the business climate and support workforce development. Register here: Quad Cities Chamber

Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce To Present Web Development Seminar Feb. 3

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce (VPCC) is pleased to announce it will host Tim Jones of Eternal Works Tuesday, Feb. 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. as he presents “Building a Site to Generate Leads & Convert.”
The session, part of the VPCC’s 2015 series of educational seminars hosted at its Hampton office location, will walk attendees through creating a web site budget and the myths, legends and misconceptions of the web, including how to understand emerging technologies, like responsive web design.
Jones will also highlight the web site elements needed to generate leads and how to use a content marketing strategy to ensure maximum digital success.
At the end of the session, Jones will open the floor for any questions or comments about web development.
Charge your cellphone in advance, Jones said, because he’ll use it to walk attendees through part of the program.Read more: PR Web
 

Improve Your Chamber’s Performance With ACCE

"Don’t tell anyone, but you guys are losing money on me. I get WAY more out of you than I’ve ever paid for. You never cease to amaze. And I’m grateful." 

—Doug Peters, CEO, Fayetteville-Cumberland County Chamber of Commerce, N.C.   

More information: Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives

Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey

RULE #43      The seat of power is furthest from the door.